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Binay on Poe candidacy: No big deal Roxas, LP not threatened
For Vice President Jejomar Binay, the prospect of Sen. Grace Poe being his rival in the 2016 elections is not a big deal. “She can declare (her bid for President). What do you want me to say? As far as I am concerned, I am a candidate for President in the 2016 elections,” Binay told reporters on the sidelines of the Mining Philippines 2015 conference, which he keynoted on Wednesday, Sept. 16. Binay showed indifference to the news that Poe declared her
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presidential bid at Ang Bahay ng Alumni at the University of the Philippines, alma mater of both the Vice President and Poe. He dodged the question about Poe posing a threat to his candidacy. But the Vice President said he would not monitor Poe’s announcement. “I won’t be a hypocrite. I have other important things to do,” he told reporters. The Liberal Party (LP), which is fielding Interior Secretary Mar PAGE A2 DILG Secretary Mar Roxas and Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay
USA
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Study: Older AAPIs rely on social security as primary source of income oLDEr r Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) count on social security during retirement as a source of income, a new AArP Public Policy Institute report revealed. The fact sheet, entitled “Social Security: Who’s Counting on It,” surveyed how Social Security impacts Americans; in 2014, approximately 59 million received benefits from the government program. For AAPIs, in particular, 65 percent of individuals ages 65 and older receive benefits, while 28 percent rely on it as their primary source of family income. only 9 percent of older AAPIs rely on Social Security as their only source of family income. In comparison to other minority groups, 50 percent of American Americans and 44 percent of Hispanics count Social Security as a primary source of family income. “Following the 80th anniversary of Social Security last month, it is a lifeline for many AAPIs that helps keep them and their families out of poverty,” said PAGE A7
Senate-approved plan would promote legal services for lowincome Californians CALIForNIA lawmakers approved and sent to Governor Jerry Brown a plan to help low-income residents have greater access to legal services. The bill, known as Senate Bill 134, would allow the State Bar to collect unclaimed donations from members to fund a student loan repayment program for public interest attorneys. “Every year, thousands of young lawyers graduate from law school with a desire to launch their careers performing public service,” said Sen. robert Hertzberg (D-Van Nuys), who helped author the bill. “Faced with skyrocketing education costs, however, more and more of our finest legal minds are opting instead to go straight into private practice.” Lawyers of both parties described the legislation, SB 134, as an “innovative revenue source for a worthy program,” said a statement from the office of Hertzberg in Sacramento. “There is too little incentive to work PAGE A3
Fil-Am among jail deputies charged for death of inmate THrEE correctional officers at a Santa Clara County jail were charged on Tuesday, Sept. 8 with the murder of a mentally ill inmate who was found dead in his cell in late August. The District Attorney’s office filed charges against 28-year-old Fil-Am Jereh Catbagan Lubrin, from San Jose, California, Matthew Farris, 27, and rafael rodriguez, 27, who were suspected of murdering Fil-Am Jereh Lubrin Photo courtesy of the Santa 31-year-old Clara County Sheriff’s Office M i c h a e l
Tyree. “Michael Tyree was not protected by those correctional officers who were supposed to protect him,” Santa Clara County District Attorney Jeff rosen told press. “Instead, they killed him and we have now charged them with murder.” Court documents reveal that Lubrin, Farris and rodriguez reported finding Tyree unresponsive, naked and covered in feces and vomit in his cell after midnight on Aug. 27. They tried to revive him, Sheriff Laurie Smith told the Los Angeles Times. However, an investigation found that the three beat Tyree to death on Aug. 26. Earlier that night, a jail nurse told Lubrin that Tyree pocketed his prescription medicine instead of swallowing it. Lubrin then PAGE A3
Republican presidential candidates stand on stage during the main debate last Wednesday, September 16, at the Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, California. (L-R) US Sen. Rand Paul, former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, US Sen. Marco Rubio, US Sen. Ted Cruz, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, businessman Donald Trump, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker, businesswoman Carly Fiorina, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. CNN photo
GOP presidential hopefuls square off on immigration in second debate by
AJPress
SIMI VALLEY, Calif.—FIFTEEN republican candidates took the podium on Wednesday, Sept. 16 in a two-segment debate at the ronald reagan Presidential Library’s Air Force one Pavilion. The afternoon kicked off with second-tier candidates South Carolina Senator Lindsey Graham, Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal, former Pennsylvania Senator r rick Santorum and former New York Governor George Pataki, all of whom have been at the bottom of the polls at around 1 percent among primary voters. Issues covered ranged from immigration, ISIS, Planned Parenthood funding, Iran and religious freedom.
Poe, Escudero seal team-up AS expected, Sen. Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero on Thursday, Sept. 17 declared his candidacy for Vice President as running mate of Sen. Grace Poe. In front of enthusiastic supporters, friends and families, including his wifeactress Heart Evangelista, mother-Sorsogon rep. Evaline Guevera-Escudero and mother-in-law Cecile ongpauco, Escudero, accepted Poe’s offer to be her Vice President. ”I am Chiz Escudero, a Filipino, a son, a husband, a father, and a Bicolano public servant. With the grace of God
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and the Blessed Mother, I humbly offer myself to the mission of serving as your Vice President… as the Vice President of our country,” he said in his acceptance speech. The event at Club Filipino in San Juan City (Metro Manila) came a day after after Poe declared her bid for the presidency. It took only 40 minutes for Poe and Escudero to seal their team-up to the delight of at least a thousand supporters who packed the historic Club Filipino in PAGE A2
But, another topic dominated the debate early on: Donald Trump. Though Trump was not onstage during the first segment, the four candidates distanced themselves from the republican frontrunner. Jake Tapper — CNN’s chief Washington correspondent and moderator of the debate — asked Jindal to respond to remarks made against Trump, saying they violated reagan’s ‘11th commandment’ of not criticizing fellow republicans. “Let’s stop treating Donald Trump like a republican,” Jindal retorted. “He’s not a conservative.” Santorum sought not to comment on PAGE A2
Pacquiao OK with no rematch vs Mayweather
choose my opponents.” MANILA—Manny PacPacquiao also said he quiao doubts he will have was waiting to see if US a rematch with Floyd Mayboxing authorities will weather because the Amersanction Mayweather for ican says he’s retiring. And taking an IV drip after the besides, boxing is not his weigh-in for their fight in priority these days. Las Vegas. Mayweather beat PacPunishment seemed quiao in boxing’s richest unlikely, as Mayweathfight in May, and after he er has been supported defeated Andre Berto last by the US Anti-Doping week for the 49th win of Agency, to which he dishis undefeated career, he Manny Pacquiao AJPress photo closed the infusion besaid he will retire. by Robert Macabagdal forehand. The USADA “Boxing is not my focus said it contained no probecause I can only fight next year, to give my shoulder a rest,” hibited substances. Pacquiao’s camp was critical of antiPacquiao said on Wednesday, Sept. 16. Pacquiao was still rehabilitating the doping authorities who did not allow him right rotator cuff that was injured be- to take medication for his rotator cuff infore the fight, and had surgery for after- jury before the fight. wards. regarding the Philippines general “I’m oK. Whether there is a second election in May 2016, Pacquiao refused (bout with Mayweather), it’s not a prob- to disclose his plans. He told reporters he lem,” he said. “I heard he has retired, so will soon announce whether he will run for re-election or governor of his provit doesn’t matter.” For his next fight, he said he will take ince, or seek a seat in the Senate. (Oliver on any other contender, “because I do not Teves/Philstar.com)
DFA: No Filipinos hurt in Chile quake
THE MAN BEHIND GRACE. An elated Sen. Francis Escudero joins Sen. Grace Poe onstage on Thursday, Sept. 17 at Club Filipino, where she named him her running mate in the 2016 elections. Poe announced her presidential bid a day earlier at Ang Bahay ng Alumni in UP Diliman, Quezon City. The anticipated team-up drew a strong mix of show biz and political personalities. Inquirer.net photo by Niño Jesus Orbeta
MANILA—The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Thursday, Sept. 17 confirmed that there were no Filipinos affected in the 8.3 magnitude quake that hit central Chile. “So far we have not received report of Filipinos affected by the earthquake in Chile,” DFA spokesman Charles Jose said in a text message. Jose said there are over 300 Filipinos working and residing in the Latin American state.
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reports said at least five people were killed and 1 million residents have been evacuated from coastal areas due to the quake. The magnitude 8.3 tremor triggered waves of up to 15 feet along the coast of Coquimbo region. Due to tsunami alarm, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology also raised tsunami alerts in 20 provinces in the country but clarified that there is no evacuation in effect. (Rosette Adel/Philstar.com)
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Binay on Poe candidacy... PAGE A1 Roxas as its standard-bearer in the 2016 elections, is ready to face the presidential run of Poe, Senate President Franklin Drilon said on Wednesday. “They are all candidates and we will face them all because we are running under a platform of good governance, the daang matuwid [straight path],” Drilon
said in a radio interview, when asked to comment on whether Poe’s run for the presidency would threaten Roxas’ own bid. Drilon, the LP vice chair, said the party had a good platform of government in daang matuwid. As to Poe’s camp, he said: “[W]here they will tread, that’s their problem.” Poe announced Wednesday
From the Front Page
night that she was taking on the challenge of running for President. Believe in brand Broadcaster Korina Sanchez, Roxas’ wife, said she was not afraid of Poe’s bid for the presidency. Sanchez, who was at the opening of the 30th Negros Trade Fair at Glorietta Activity Center in Makati City, was asked if Poe’s entry was a threat. She told the Inquirer that the Roxas camp was not threatened by Poe’s entry in the presidential race because it believed her husband had the best qualifications to lead the nation. “We’re kind of relaxed because I think it’s just all about believing in your brand and, being his wife, of course I’m biased. I think he (Roxas) is the best person and the best brand,” she added. Sanchez said no one could beat 30 years in governance. Saying Roxas is an Ilonggo, she added, “I guess that’s good enough reason to put back a Visayan in Malacañang. It’s about time.” Reminded that Poe also has Ilonggo roots, Sanchez replied: “But he can speak Ilonggo. She cannot. You also have to count the number of visits over the years (to Negros). Between all the candidates and by far, Mar is a sure winner.” The mothers of Roxas and Poe—Judy Roxas-Araneta and Susan Roces—are both from Negros Occidental province. Drilon said that he had long told his party mates to prepare because Poe, the front-runner in recent presidential surveys, was gunning for the presidency and that the party should stop courting her to be Roxas’ running mate. The Senate President said the party would likely know who would be Roxas’ running mate by the end of the month, as the latter was continuing to talk to prospective vice presidents who include Camarines Sur Rep. Leni Robredo, Batangas Gov. Vilma Santos and Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano. Very transparent At the Negros Trade Fair in Makati City, Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Marañon Jr. and PAGE A7
GOP presidential hopefuls square off... PAGE A1
Trump, but rather remind other candidates about the importance of this debate. “I think personal attacks just please one person: Hillary Clinton. “The focus of this debate should be on how we’re going to win this election and help improve the lives of American workers,” he said. Pataki later chimed in to complain that there were other issues to discuss -- given it’s an “important election with an enormous number of challenges facing the American people,” he said — yet, the opening questions were about the real-estate mogul. “I will vote for the Republican nominee, but let me say this flat
out, Donald Trump is unfit to be President of the United States or the Republican Party’s nominee,” he said. The four candidates tackled the issue of deportation and what the United States should do with the estimated 11 million undocumented immigrants in the country. Graham and Santorum agreed that a more rational immigration system should be implemented because of its declining workforce, yet diverged on exactly what needs to be done to achieve that. “We’re not going to deport 11 million undocumented immigrants here illegally, but we’ll start with felons, and off they go. And,
Poe, Escudero seal... PAGE A1 Greenhills, San Juan City. Among the personalities present were Poe’s mother, veteran actress Susan Roces, half-sister Lovi Poe, former Zamboanga congressman and convicted child rapist Romeo Jalosjos, Valenzuela City Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian and Nationalist People’s Coalition (NPC) president Giorgidi Aggabao. In her speech, Poe said she chose Escudero as running mate based on his credentials and experience as public servant for the last 17 years. Escudero represented the First District of Sorsogon in the Bicol Region for three terms and is winding up his second term in the Senate. He served as spokesman for Poe’s father, the late actor Fernando Poe Jr., in the 2004 elections. ”So today, I am pleased to ask you support for our reliable public servant who can serve us, our Vice President Senator Chiz Escudero,” Poe said. In response, Escudero said he accepted “this challenge wholeheartedly because I believe in the character and ability of Senator Grace.” ”I once said that I would support any decision that Senator Grace makes regarding her role in the 2016 elections. As a candidate or ordinary supporter, I’m prepared to stand by her, just as I did for FPJ over 11 years ago,” he added. Escudero said he and Poe “will establish a government with
heart through a detailed platform for each agency, which will be based on their yearly budget.” ”Like her father FPJ, Senator Poe’s heart is in the right place. I believe that, as President, Senator Grace Poe or “GP” will lead a ‘GP’ –gobyernong may puso or a government with heart,” he added. ”In governing this country, we cannot afford to dawdle or hold ourselves hostage to analysis paralysis. We should hit the ground running from the first day until the last. We cannot afford to do otherwise,” Escudero said. Past is past The presence of Cecile Ongpauco, mother of actress Heart Evangelista (Love Marie Ongpauco in real life), proves that she has completely accepted her daughter’s husband. Ongpauco and her husband Rey publicly condemned their daughter’s relationship with the previously married senator when the two began their relationship in 2013. They also chose not to attend the couple’s wedding in February this year, with Evangelista’s father sending a letter instead that said he and his wife will come knocking at their door as soon as they see their daughter happy with her choice. Thankfully by May, differences were settled and the senator finally earned the Ongpaucos’ approval and his rightful place in their family. A simply dressed Evangelista expressed happiness over her
as to the rest, you can stay, but you got to learn our language,” Graham said. He also added that “in my world Hispanics are Americans” (an answer that earned applauses), noting that Republican candidates could target Hispanic voters next year. “[I]mmigration without assimilation is invasion,” Jindal said. “We need to insist the people who come here come here legally, learn English, adopt our values, roll up their sleeves and get to work. We do need to secure the border.” Hours before the debate, immigration advocates bearing signs PAGE A3
family’s presence at her husband’s big day. “I’m not sure what else they plan to do they’re very excited and they’re very supportive. That’s good enough for us. All’s well that ends well,” the actress said, whose sisters Mitch and Camille also accompanied their mother. When asked why their father was not with the family that day, Evangelista replied he was recently hospitalized, but had called his son-in-law just before his announcement and wished him well. He also watched the live broadcast from home. Besides the Ongpauco family, Sen. Poe’s mother Susan Roces also attended Escudero’s rally, as well as her half sister, actress Lovi Poe. Lovi, who also happens to be Evangelista’s best friend, told reporters she missed her “Ate Grace’s” own announcement on Wednesday because of a scheduled taping. Lovi expressed her confidence in her elder sister’s bid for the presidency saying, “She’s made of Poe material, so I believe she’s a strong woman.” Meanwhile, as Evangelista’s best friend, Lovi has been present at every important event in her relationship with Escudero, one of which was the lawmaker’s surprise marriage proposal in his hometown. The younger Poe was escorted by her boyfriend, actor Rocco Nacino. (Neil Alcober, Jefferson Antiporda, Llanesca Panti and Euden Valdez/ManilaTimes.net)
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Senate-approved plan would promote legal...
PAGE A1 in public-interest areas of law today because the pay often is substantially lower than in private practice,” Hertzberg, who is also a lawyer, said. SB 134 would support a loanassistance program for attorneys committed to serving the public interest, by using unclaimed funds in lawyer trust accounts. The proposal was unanimously approved in June by the state Senate. SB 134 was previously approved by the Judiciary and Appropriations committees, also without a dissenting vote. The bill was next approved by the Assembly. If the bill becomes law, an option to donate to the Public Interest Attorney Loan Repayment Program could be added to State Bar dues statements as soon as next year, the Metropolitan NewsEnterprise reported. According to the American Bar Association, the average debt of a 2012 law school graduate was about $85,000 when graduating from a public school, and $122,000 from a private school. “This level of debt makes it difficult for attorneys to pay off their debt, despite any interest in public service,” Hertzberg’s office said in a statement. As a direct result, legal-service advocates (such as child support agencies) have found it increasingly difficult to keep talented attorneys staffed.
PAGE A1 confronted Tyree to take his pills. Documents show that later on in the evening that Lubrin and Farris conducted a routine search of the cells, while the inmates were participating in “program time” in the common areas. Rodriguez joined the two officers to confront inmate Juan Villa. They allegedly hit Villa in the head and twisted his arms, according to the investigative report prepared by Sergeant Marc Carrasco. The three also face assault charges for this encounter. They then continued their search of other cells, including Tyree’s. Lubrin and Farris allegedly entered Tyree’s one-man cell while Rodriguez waited outside the door. Carrasco’s report stated that Tyree reportedly asked “Do I have to get up?” and was ordered to get up by Farris. “Inmate Tyree’s distinctive voice could be heard screaming, ‘I’m sorry. I’m sorry. Stop,’” Carrasco detailed. “Screaming could be heard throughout the pod for several minutes and was accompanied by the sounds of thumping, wall banging and what sounded like blows to a person’s body. At some point during the screaming period, Officer Rodriguez closed the door so that it was open a small amount.” Tyree died “within minutes to no more than one hour,” the report said, after the incident with the officers left him with wounds on his eye, chin and cheek; bruises above his left ear; and injuries on his upper arms, legs, back and hips. The injury on Tyree’s lower left back ruptured his spleen and liver and caused internal bleeding, Carrasco stated. “The officers then left Inmate Tyree’s cell continuing their searches. They did not call for medical assistance for Inmate Tyree,” the report said. After midnight, Lubrin went back to the cell for the routine welfare check and radioed, “man down” upon finding Tyree’s body. Tyree was subsequently pronounced dead at 12:35 am. An attorney for Tyree’s family said he was schizophrenic and had battled mental illness most of his adult life, according to an NBC
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GOP presidential hopefuls square off...
“Public interest law offices must PAGE A2 retain talented attorneys to ensure and oversized papier mache carithat their clientele consistently cature heads of Trump, Rubio and receive an acceptable level of serWalker flocked to the entrance of vice and equal access to justice,” the Reagan Library to protest the Hertzberg told the committee. Republican candidates’ stances In a bill analysis, the Judiciary on not granting citizenship to ilCommittee staff explained that the legal immigrants. program is authorized by legislaCandidates also shared their tion carried by Hertzberg when positions on minimum wage, with he was in the Assembly. The Loan Santorum proposing a 50-centRepayment Program was created per-hour increase throughout a years ago to help lower student three-year period. debt of attorneys agreeing to “How are we gonna win if 90 practice in certain public-interpercent of Americans don’t think est areas of law. The bill became we care about them and their law in 2001, but the program has chance to rise in America?” Sannever been funded. Sen. Robert Hertzberg torum said. A budget item that would have However, Graham countered appropriated $100,000 for startup has collected more than $450,000 that a federal increase in the minicosts was vetoed by then-Gover- since 2010. mum wage would be detrimental nor Arnold Schwarzenegger in Supporters of the bill include to businesses. 2007. the California Public Defenders Though the first-round was The California Student Aid Association, California State Conbrushed off by many analysts, Commission would administer the ference of the NAACP, Equal Justhe four candidates attempted to program, such as establishing eli- tice Works, Los Angeles County prove themselves with hopes of gibility and selecting participants District Attorney’s Office, Mexijoining top-tier candidates in the eligible for up to $11,000 for can American Legal Defense and polls. four years of service in qualifying Educational Fund, Legal Aid AssoThe other 11 candidates (foragencies. ciation of California, Hastings and mer Florida Governor Jeb Bush, How the commission would McGeorge law schools, Ventura retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, access the funds collected by the County Public Defender’s Office, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, State Bar is not yet certain, the and Worksafe. Texas Senator Ted Cruz, former Judiciary Committee said. No opGov. Brown has 30 days to sign, Hewlett-Packard CEO Fiorina, position was received, the analysis veto, or allow the bill to become former Arkansas Governor Mike said. law without his signature. Huckabee, Ohio Governor John While the clients continue to “Too often we grant rights withKasich, Kentucky Senator Rand have the right to claim their prop- out providing the tools to make Paul, Florida Senator Marco Ruerty, the property is transferred to those rights real. Here is a crebio, Trump and Wisconsin Goverthe state General Fund after being ative way to ensure those rights,” nor Scott Walker) took to the stage held three years. Hertzberg said. (Allyson Escobar/ at 5pm PST. A similar program in Oregon AJPress) Each candidate was positioned on stage based on their rankings in recent polls. During the first debate hosted by Fox News in August, Fiorina report. He was reportedly going to mother, Julieta, “don’t worry. I was considered a second-tier canenter a residential treatment pro- didn’t do anything.” didate, but her performance cataLubrin was hired as a correc- pulted her in national polls and gram at the Momentum Crisis Residential Treatment Center, a non- tional officer at the Santa Clara deemed her worthy enough to profit for substance abuse, after County Main Jail in 2012, a step in join the higher-ranking hopefuls. serving his five-day sentence for his dream of being in law enforceLeading into the debate, a CBS/ ment. Lubrin was inspired by his New York Times poll showed petty theft and drug possession. The death of Tyree — who was grandfather, according to Dwight, Trump and Carson at 27 percent housed in a special wing of the who was a second lieutenant in the and 23 percent, respectively; jail reserved for inmates in pro- Philippine Army. Bush, Huckabee and Rubio each “He looked up to my dad,’’ trailed behind at 6 percent of suptective custody or with special needs — has reopened the debate Dwight said. port from Republican primary votRodriguez told the Mercury ers. about how jails treat mentally ill News that he was inside Tyree’s inmates. The prime-time debate kicked “This is a tragic sad heartbreak- cell for the search that night, but off with a question directed to Fioing event,” family attorney Paula never had physical contact with rina, as to whether Trump could Canny said. “And that Michael Tyree. be trusted “with his finger on the Lubrin, Farris and Rodriguez nuclear codes.” Tyree, even though he was an inmate in jail, he was a person were scheduled to appear in court “I think Mr. Trump is a wonderof value and inmates are to be on Sept. 18. If convicted, they ful entertainer, he’s been terrific respected. Michael was some- could face life in prison. at that business,” she responded, “It sucks being in here for some- but said it’s “not for me to anbody’s brother, somebody’s son, somebody’s cousin, somebody’s thing I didn’t do,” Rodriguez said. swer” whether Trump could be “These men violated the law, trusted with that power. nephew.” Since the arrest on Sept. 3, human dignity, and the job that Later in the evening, Fiorina Lubrin’s family and friends they were sworn to do,” District was asked another Trump-related have stood by him, describing Attorney Rosen said in a statehim as a loving and caring in- ment. “They may have thought that their violence, enacted late at dividual. “He likes his job, and he works night in the obscurity of a jail cell well with his sergeant and all of and against a helpless and mentalthe good people there,” Lubrin’s ly ill inmate, was invisible. Today father Dwight told the San Jose we see it for all of its brutality. Mr. Mercury News. The report also Tyree was not invisible. His death said Lubrin told his father that was not invisible. We will see that “something had happened with there is justice.” (Christina M. Orian inmate” at the jail and told his el/AJPress)
Fil-Am among jail deputies charged for...
OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 18-24, 2015
question — his comment about her ‘face’ in a recent Rolling Stone article. “I think women all over this country heard very clearly what Mr. Trump said,” she said, to which Trump awkwardly retorted, “I think she has a very beautiful face, and she’s a beautiful woman.” After a commercial break, Tapper moved the conversation to immigration, calling it a “combustible” topic during the campaign. Trump tackled the issue first, saying that building a wall along the US-Mexico border is necessary and that if he gets elected, the “really bad dudes in this country from outside” would be gone. The real-estate mogul has largely been seen as anti-immigration since he announced his plans to run for president. “I took heat like nobody has taken heat in a long time. And, then they found out with the killing of Katie, from San Francisco, and so many other crimes, they found out that I was right,” he said. And, most people, many people, apologized to me. I don’t think you’d even be talking about illegal immigration if it weren’t for me. So, we have a country of laws, they’re going to go out, and they’ll come back if they deserve to come back. If they’ve had a bad record, if they’ve been arrested, if they’ve been in jail, they’re never coming back. We’re going to have a country again. Right now, we don’t have a country, we don’t have a border, and we’re going to do something about it, and it can be done with proper management, and it can be done with heart.” Christie rebutted Trump’s plans, going a step further by saying electronics, drones and more government agencies need to be deployed along the borders. “We need to take the fingerprint of every person who comes into this country on a visa, and when they overstay their visa, we need to tap them on the shoulder, and say, ‘You have overstayed your welcome, you’re taking advantage of the American people. It’s time for you to go,’” the New Jersey governor said. Carson, who had been silent for a portion of the debate despite being second in the polls, said having a border simply isn’t enough. He cited Yuma County, Arizona, which has a “double fence with a road so that there [is] quick access by the enforcement people.” “If we don’t seal the border, the rest of this stuff clearly doesn’t
matter. It’s kind of ridiculous all the other things we talk about. We have the ability to do it, we don’t have the will to do it,” he said. The retired neurosurgeon went on to say that a guest worker program, especially for those in the agricultural field, should be considered. Bush was asked to respond to Trump’s comment back in July about having “a soft spot for people from Mexico” because of his Mexican-born wife. “We’re at a crossroads right now,” Bush said. “Are we going to take the Reagan approach, the hopeful optimistic approach, the approach that says that, you come to our country legally, you pursue your dreams with a vengeance, you create opportunities for all of us? Or the Donald Trump approach -- the approach that says that everything is bad, that everything is coming to an end?” The former governor of Florida mentioned his book that laid out a comprehensive approach to immigration reform, one that requires securing the border but not tearing families apart. “It would send a signal to the rest of the world that the United States values that are so important for our long-term success no longer matter in this country,” he said. Though some candidates seemed to acknowledge that Trump reopened the conversation on immigration, Fiorina didn’t think so. “Immigration did not come up in 2016 because Mr. Trump brought it up. We talked about it in 2012, we talked about it in 2008. We talked about it in 2004,” she said. Rubio, who is of Cuban ancestry, said the US has “three” immigration problems: people are still coming to the the country illegally; an inoperable legal immigration system; 11-12 million people who have been in the country for the years who are still without status. “Here’s the way forward: First, we must -- we must secure our border, the physical border, with -- with a wall, absolutely. But we also need to have an entry/exit tracking system. 40 percent of the people who come here illegally come legally, and then they overstay the visa. We also need a mandatory e-verify system. After we’ve done that, step two would be to modernize our legal immigration system so you come to America on the basis of what you can conPAGE A5
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D ateline PhiliPPines AFP receives equipment against UNA hopes to get Erap’s support for VP Binay chemical warfare from US by AlExis
romEro
Philstar.com
MANILA—The military on Thursday, Sept. 17 received equipment that would enhance its capabilities to address chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear (CBRN) threats. The package, which included protective gear and detection equipment, was handed over by the United States Defense Threat Reduction Agency in a ceremony held in Camp Aguinaldo. Armed Forces Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina received the 501 pieces of CBRN response equipment in behalf of the military. The equipment arrived in the Philippines last September 6. The dismounted reconnaissance sets kits and outfits package consists of CBRN equipment that can be used for site assessment missions. It includes individual personal protective equipment like protective suits, gloves and boots and self-contained breathing apparatus; decontamination items like flexible waste water tank and various types of water hoses; consumable support items; reusable support items like toolbox and bolt cutter; training reference materials; power supply facilities; and team communications items. The equipment will allow soldiers to reduce risks and gather information about chemical
NEW EQUIPMENT. Lt. Gen. Edgar Fallorina, Armed Forces of the Philippines’ deputy chief of staff, checks the new equipment for the chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear (CBRN) platoon Army Support Command (Ascom) of the Philippine Army donated to the AFP by the Defense Threat Reduction Agency of the United States on Sept. 17 at Camp Aguinaldo. Photo courtesy of AFP Public Affairs Office
agents, biological agents and other potential chemical hazards. The package can equip a team of 27 CBRN personnel. The package costs around $1 million. Fallorina admitted that the military has capability gaps in terms of mitigating CBRN threats. “It is always better to be prepared rather than be sorry,” Fallorina told reporters in an interview. “We are late in developing this capability but thanks to our counterparts we are given some support and we’re able to start the capability development for this specific area,” he added.
The donated equipment will be used by the CBRN Platoon which is under the Explosive Ordnance Disposal Battalion of the Army Support Command. Around 35 members of the platoon are now undergoing refresher trainings in Fort Bonifacio. “The equipment that we have collaboratively worked with and trained on and provided to the Philippine government is exactly the same equipment that we provide to our own military forces and to our civilian counterparts,” said US Army Col. Kenneth Deal of the Defense Threat Reduction Agency.
said. Toward the end of the night, more light-hearted questions were asked: what woman the candidates would put on the $10 and what their Secret Service code names would be. Some answers for the former question were Rosa Parks, Margaret Thatcher and Mother Theresa. However, Fiorina called changing the $10 bill a “gesture”; rather, “we out to recognize that women are not a special interest group,” she said. As for the code names, some responses that drew in laughter and applause were from Bush, who said, “Ever Ready, it’s very high energy, Donald” and Trump who
cArcAmo Philstar.com
MANILA—Opposition bloc United Nationalist Alliance is still hoping that it can convince former president and now Manila City Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada to support its standard bearer Vice President Jejomar Binay in the 2016 presidential race. UNA Secretary General JV Bautista said the party has helped Estrada during trying times in his political life. Bautista said his connection with late actor Fernando Poe Jr. should not get in the way of his supporting Binay’s presidential bid in 2016. Poe is the adoptive father of
Sen. Grace Poe, believed to be running in the presidential derby against Binay. “Kung meron man syang link kay FPJ, wala naman na si FPJ di ba?And this is not FPJ (referring to Grace). So we believe the politics of Erap will somehow be seriously considered and we’ll rule the day from here,” Bautista said. “Erap is my dear friend. We have been in politics for so many years already, ang mga mahihigpit na laban ni Erap we were there for him. Lahat ng laban ni Erap, kasama si Binay... There was not a single instance na iniwanan siya ni Binay... Where should the payback be?” he said.
United Nationalist Alliance has yet to sit down with Manila City Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada to get his support for the party’s standard bearer Vice President Jejomar Binay.
Marcos: Other candidates should now decide by ErniE
EscondE ManilaTimes.net
SUBIC BAY—Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Thursday, Sept. 17 claimed that the announcement of Sen. Grace Poe to run for the presidency did not surprise him. “It was very well expected. Malinaw noon pang nakaraang mga linggo na tatakbo siya bilang Pangulo [As early as last week, it was clear that she’s running for President],” Marcos said. He noted that the political terrain has become more clear. “[Poe’s] declaration will help other candidates decide what they will do. We will also be forced to decide,” the Ilocano lawmaker said. When asked when he will announce his candidacy, Marcos said he has no date yet. joked, “Humble.” “We will announce it once I Wednesday night was the second debate for Republican can- have a date, a decision. I will make didates, with another expected it known not only to the media but next month in Colorado. The first the whole country,” he added. Marcos said his decision to run debate among Democratic candidates is scheduled for next month and be paired with Vice President Jejomar Binay will not be based on in Las Vegas. CNN confirmed on Thursday, percentage. “Hindi by percent ang pagdeSept. 17 that the prime-time debate on Wednesday, which desisyon. Kung gusto tumakbo, clocked in at over three hours, av- tumakbo. Kapag maayos na mga eraged 22.9 million views, making imponderable variables at maliit the most-watched program in naw na, mas magiging maliwanag the network’s history. The earlier din ang dapat kong gawin [Making “undercard” debate only raked in a decision should not be based on 6.3 million viewers. (Agnes Con- percentages. If you want to run, go stante/AJPress contributed to this run. If the imponderable variables report)
GOP presidential hopefuls square off...
PAGE A3 tribute economically, not whether or not simply you have a relative living here,” he proposed. Birthright citizenship—children born in the US to undocumented immigrants—was brought up, following some previous comments Trump and Bush, in particular, have made. “Well, first of all, the 14th Amendment says very, very clearly to a lot of great legal scholars… that it is wrong…A woman gets pregnant. She’s nine months, she walks across the border, she has the baby in the United States, and we take care of the baby for 85 years. I don’t think so,” Trump
by dEnnis
are all right and clear, the clearer will be my decision],” he added. Marcos said the Nacionalista Party to which he belongs has not yet decided on whom to support for President. “Without a doubt, kahit ano pa mangyari, the NP will be involved in the 2016 elections. Kung walang presidential candidate sa loob ng partido, hahanap ito ng ibang susuportahan kapag maliwanag na sitwasyon [If the party
has no candidate for President, it will look for somebody to support if the situation gets clearer],” he added. Marcos said members of the NP recently met and saw many political alliances and developments as the date of filing of certificates of candidacy in October nears. “The NP is still in consultation with different groups and will choose the best programs it will support,” he added.
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September 18-24, 2015 • OC/Ie ASIAN JOUrNAL
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Election season AS early as now, Filipinos are encouraged to exercise their right to vote and do so prudently in next year’s elections. With a number of high profile politicians involved in controversies recently, political reform in the Philippines is hounded by higher a public expectation, making next year’s polls even more crucial. Filipinos must realize the power that belongs to them, which is to choose the leaders they think will represent their interests. They must do so by exercise the right of suffrage with tenacity and good cheer. Because of such pressure, every vote (from the estimated 54 million registered Filipino voters) has become more precious than ever. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) attempts to capture two million more qualified voters into the system until the deadline of December 15 this year. However, with less than eight months before the 2016 national and local elections, the Social Weather Stations (SWS) survey revealed that only three in four Filipinos are eligible to vote. As much as 46.6 million Filipino voters are at risk of disenfranchisement after the recent SWS poll showed that only 76 percent of 1,200 respondents are registered voters and have had their biometrics digitally recorded. It was also revealed in the June survey that 16 percent of the respondents—equivalent to 9.7 million—are registered voters but have not yet submitted their biometric data.Meanwhile, eight percent of the respondents, or 4.7 million Filipinos, are not yet registered voters. The Comelec refuted these figures from SWS
and clarified that based on its own records, voters who do not have biometrics data have gone down to 3.1 million. It added that regardless of SWS’ questionable results, the Comelec records are the official data that would used for next year’s polls. The voter registration is set to end on Oct. 31, and there are still 3,130,377 votes to be accounted for. Meanwhile, to up the ante for next year’s polls, the Comelec is also pushing for the the conduct of debates for all candidates in the 2016 polls. Sen. Loren Legarda, chairman of the Senate committee on finance, said the voters deserve to know the candidates’ stand on various issues and that holding debates is one of the best ways to bring the platforms of candidates to the electorate. Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, chairman the Senate committee on electoral reforms, supported the initiative and said there are already proposed laws to make debates among candidates mandatory. The Comelec also aims to get Filipino citizens abroad interested to vote in 2016 by presidential candidates for their specific plans for overseas Filipino workers and disseminate copies of these plans to embassies abroad. There are eight million potential voters abroad, but only but only 1.2 million have registered so far. “Sooner or later, maybe not only the candidates, also our people will come to realize that the OFW vote could be a game changer, not only in the senatorial but even in the presidential elections,” Comelec commissioner Arthur Lim said. Lim added that the Comelec is working closely with the Dept. of Foreign Affairs (DFA) to attract
Editorial
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more overseas absentee voters to register and participate. The Comelec is also encouraging the Filipino youth, which accounts for at least 37 percent of the 2016 electorate, to register and vote. ManilaComelec Chairman Andres Bautista said today’s youth “unlike generations past, have access to high technology and a wealth of information. More importantly, young people, still have the energy and idealism to effect positive change in the country.” The election fever brings a feeling of obligation
towards the citizens and those who aspire for positions in the government. Future leaders depend heir success to the citizens of the nation and may serve as their motivation to work for the people and the common good. To weed out the traditional politicians (trapos) from actual leaders, the Filipino electorate must use this opportunity to educate themselves and create sensible demands for greater social or economic equality. This will force politicians to campaign toward some of their requests to make their votes count. (AJPress)
Who will you now vote for: Grace Poe, Mar Roxas, or Jejomar Binay? AFTEr all the anticipation, suspense, and cliffhangers of teleseryes that mirror her personal narrative, Senator Grace Poe has finally made it official: She is running for President. This makes the Presidential Election in May 2016 a choice among the three candidates who have made their intent to run public and official: VP Jejomar Binay, Mar roxas and Grace Poe. While Poe has lorded over her political opponents in the polls, more recent independent surveys still have to reveal how her move to protect the Iglesia ni Cristo (INC) over the rule of law could have affected her favorability rating. Her stand on the INC fiasco gave an impression to many that she is just as “trapo” as the old timers in politics, who would do everything to win the endorsement of big religious voting blocs. But there is no denying that Poe, finally being in the race to Malacanang, has energized so many kababayans who have been looking for a candidate who can be an alternative to those who had been tried, tested, and somehow failed peoples’ expectations in governance. “Ako po si Grace Poe. Pilipino. Anak, asawa at ina, at sa tulong ng Mahal na Diyos ay inaalay ko sa inyong lahat ang aking sarili sa mas mataas na paninilbihan bilang inyong Pangulo,” Poe declared before hundreds of supporters at the University of the Philippines (UP) Bahay ng Alumni Wednesday evening, September 16, as reported by ABS-CBN News. “Sana po ay samahan ninyo ako sa pagpapanday ng maganda at makabuluhang hinaharap ng ating inang bayang Pilipinas,” said Poe, complete with all
the necessary elements of stagecraft for maximum intensity effect The Fil-Am among prospective voters. Poe had an all-star cast that in- Perspective cluded her family and many other showbiz personalities from different generations who were all there to show their support for the daughter of the late King of Fili- Gel SantoS-ReloS pino movies Fernando Poe Jr. and the reyna—veteran actress, Susan roces. The stage design optics and sounds included fans and supporters who repeatedly chanted her name, holding banners in support of Poe. Boldly written on the banners inside the UP Bahay ng Alumni were: “Sama-sama Poe tayo,” “Tuloy na Poe,” “Eto na Poe,” and “Maasahan, matapang, tapat Poe.” And then this. As expected, she invoked the name of FPJ:”Nung ako po’y unang kumatok sa inyong mga puso, ang sabi ko gusto kong ipagpatuloy ang mga simulain ni FPJ. Simple lang ang prinsipyo ng aking ama na siya ring naging dahilan ng kanyang pagtakbo. Sinabi niya sa bulwagang ito mahigit 11 taon ang nakalipas: Importante sa isang leader ang katalinuhan pero mas importante na may tapat na pusong manilbihan upang tulungan ang mahihirap, labanan ang pang-aabuso, at pumanday ng isang lipunang masagana at makatarungan,” Poe said. In her 25-minute speech Poe said that she draws inspiration from ordinary Filipinos—farmers, fishermen, drivers, teachers, health workers, police, soldiers, those who brave the traffic everyday, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), and other people struggling to make their lives better.
Bridging the gap
A Law Each Day JoSe C. SiSon THErE is no more doubt that the present administration under Aquino III is the No. 1 enemy of the masses. It is a government against the Filipino people instead of being for the people. It has no concern at all in uplifting the living and working conditions of the common tao. Its oft repeated catchphrase telling us that “kayo ang boss ko” is exactly the opposite of what it is doing or has failed to do after almost six years in power. And this is very obvious in two areas of governance and public service. The first is in providing an efficient and adequate mass transportation system and ensuring the speedy and punctual flow of public and private vehicles in major thoroughfares to avoid waste of valuable time. Very noticeable in this connection are the long queues of commuters every morning and late evenings as they try to get rides in the trains or buses going to and from their places of work. While this has been the situ-
ation even in past administrations, it has turned for the worst during this regime. Seeing all those people suffering under the heat of the sun or amidst pouring rains very early in the morning or late at night should have already prompted this government to sit up, take notice and do something to ease their plight. Instead however, it has remained oblivious and unconcerned and simply passed the blame on others, or admit its helplessness and ineptness. Its Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) even went to the extent of disdainfully telling the commuting and riding public to just “grin and bear it” as it is not “fatal” after all. Such callousness is indeed so sickening and disgusting. But more disgusting and repellent is the recent move of Aquino III himself thumbing down proposals lowering the income tax of fixed income earners and the lowly working class. These are proposals coming from Administration lawmakers themselves who realize that the tax bracket systems in the country have been stuck at the 1997 levels yet. Aquino however believes that lowering their in-
“Kayong lahat ang pinaghuhugutan ko ng inspirasyon. Kayo ang nagbibigay sa akin ng lakas na ialay ang aking sarili sa mas mataas na paninilbihan sa bayan,” she said. Poe’s promises ABS-CBN News reported about how Poe went on to present her platform: Pushing for inclusive growth, addressing the backlog in classrooms, creating a Standard Lunch Program in all public schools, crusading against crime and illegal drugs, and respecting the rights of everyone especially those in vulnerable sectors including senior citizens and members of the LGBT community. She also highlighted the need of improving health services, pushing for the passage of the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, and fighting for the West Philippine Sea which is also being claimed by China. “Walang maiiwang Pilipino at walang maiiwang lugar sa Pilipinas. Sabay-sabay tayong aangat at sama-sama tayong uunlad,” Poe said. Poe also said that no one man or group holds a monopoly on “Tuwid na Daan,” and vowed to continue the Aquino administration’s fight against corruption. She explained, “Malaki at malayo na ang nagawa ni Pangulong Aquino kaugnay sa pagpapanagot sa mga tiwali, at ako ay personal na nagpapasalamat sa kanya sapagkat nanumbalik muli ang kumpyansa natin sa isang lider na tapat. “Dapat lang na ituloy at paigtingin ang pagsugpo
Commentary
come tax at his time is “not beneficial since there is no government surplus.” It would just “increase the budget deficit which would be a negative factor from the standpoint of credit rating agencies,” he said. Quite striking and even perplexing here is the alleged lack of government surplus. Coming to mind right away is the “fund” surreptitiously concocted by this administration since 2011 supposedly for disbursement acceleration program (DAP) of the government. This DAP funds were eventually discovered as being used to dispense favors and convince (bribe?) legislators to toe the line in passing its controversial pet bills like the rH law and in impeaching high government officials who have incurred its ire, like ex- Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez and ex Chief Justice Corona. This DAP which has already been declared as unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, seem to be contrary to the very idea of “lack of government surplus.” Another striking aspect of Aquino’s reason for thumbing down the proposal to lower the income tax is that he seems to be more PAGE A7
Bill imada EArLIEr this year, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) voted along party lines to reclassify Internet Service Providers (ISPs) as public utilities and to regulate the Internet under outdated Title II regulations. The negative effects of these burdensome regulations are quickly materializing. There are now clear indications that Title II harms broadband investment and innovation, which in turn harms many diverse communities and small businesses across the country. Our country’s largest ISPs just issued their second quarter S.E.C filings, and these filings made it clear that the FCC’s Open Internet Order has already had a detrimental effect on investment, with some ISPs showing a decline of as much as 29 percent, compared to this time last year. Typically, these companies spend billions every year to expand and enhance network
sa korapsyon. Papanagutin ko ang tiwali, kaibigan man o kaaway, subalit ‘di lamang isang tao o partido ang dapat nagsusulong nito kundi ang bawat isang Pilipino,” she added. ABS-CBN News further reported that Poe included in her campaign promises that she will lower the tax rates and power costs in the country. She also advocates for faster Internet, quipping that “connecting should not take forever.” Poe also stressed the need to build more roads and trains, to clean the drainage systems, and to remove colorum and illegally parked vehicles to improve the already worsening traffic situation in the country which she called “OA.” The senator also promised to pursue peace with all groups, particularly the Muslims, saying Filipinos should no longer be fighting fellow Filipinos. “Sa mga kapatid nating Muslim, naging inspirasyon kayo sa maraming pelikula ni FPJ, ang inyong kultura at kagitingan. Panahon na para mabigyan kayo ng patas na pagkakataon at tunay na tulong,” she said. How will Grace Poe’s running for President change the political campaign dynamics? Who between Binay and Mar roxas will benefit from her candidacy? If the election is held today, who will you vote for? VP Binay? Sec. Mar roxas? or Sen. Grace Poe? *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos
Title II threatens minority populations, small businesses infrastructure, in order to meet consumer demand, deliver new innovations, and remain competitive. Those billions constitute economic growth, and they create jobs and bring important benefits to consumers and businesses. This decline means that both those who depend on the Internet the most and those who struggle to get access will be negatively affected as broadband providers and tech companies continue to react to heavy regulation. These falling investment numbers offer a warning about this new regulatory environment, and that’s a warning we cannot afford to ignore. There is much at stake, including economic growth, jobs, and opportunity for minority populations – particularly the Asian American community. recent Pew research shows that Asian Americans are enthusiastic users of the Internet and rely on broadband more so than other groups. When it comes to broadband adoption, 97 percent of English-speaking
Asian Americans use the Internet compared to 78 percent of blacks, 81 percent of Hispanics, and 85 percent of Whites. Embracing policies like Title II will only lead to the deterioration of a resource that has become indispensable to so many people. The Internet is an essential tool especially for those who live in remote areas where educational and professional opportunities may not be as widely available as in other parts of the country. Broadband is an important resource for people in rural areas to excel through online education and career development programs. When overbearing regulations threaten access to Internet innovations, those who rely on that access the most also stand to lose the most. Having the latest broadband technology is also necessary for small businesses to connect with new markets and offer modern customer services. In California, there are over 600,000 Asian Pacific IslanderPAGE A7
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Binay on Poe candidacy... PAGE A2
former Gov. Rafael Coscolluela also came to the defense of Roxas. Marañon said he did not believe Poe’s entry into the presidential race would affect Roxas’ chances of winning. “(Roxas) is the most experienced, is brilliant and has been in government for a long time with not a single taint of corruption to his name. He is very transparent,” the governor said. Marañon said Poe’s decision to join the race would only strengthen Roxas’ resolve to work for his victory. In the end, he added, Roxas will win. Most organized party “Politics is local and the Liberal Party is the most organized down to the grassroots level,” he said. “Does Grace Poe have that organization up to the precinct level?” he asked. Coscolluela said the entry of Poe in the presidential race would strengthen Roxas’ chances because people would be asking who among the presidential candidates was most qualified. “Right now all that the Grace Poe group is banking on is really popularity. But if people just make a habit of asking what the credentials of the candidates are, then I’m pretty sure that Mar will outrank all the other candidates by a mile,” he said. Coscolluela was confident that the voters would vote on the basis of qualifications and not just on the basis of popularity. Good luck Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto, meanwhile, wished Poe good luck. Recto, who is reported to be jumping to the Poe-Escudero camp, welcomed “Senator Grace’s courageous move to submit her application letter for
the highest officer in the land.” “That she will present a preview of her platform would hopefully be the cue that the run-up to 2016 will be marked by a serious discussion of issues and away from the pettiness of gutter politics,” he said in a statement. “I wish her good luck and Godspeed—the same sincere tidings I would convey to my seatmates in the chamber—Senators Ferdinand Marcos Jr., Antonio Trillanes IV, Escudero and Cayetano—when it is time for them to submit their reported application letter for the vice presidency as well,” Recto said. Marcos still undecided Even if he said the political situation would somehow clear with Poe finally announcing her bid for the presidency, Marcos said he had yet to decide whether to run for higher office as the possible running mate of Binay or to seek reelection. Marcos said he would still have to consult with his party, the Nacionalista Party of former Sen. Manuel Villar Jr., this week. “I have nothing new to tell you… I see elements that are still unclear,” he told reporters, who asked him about Binay’s statement that he was 85 to 90 percent sure of his vice presidential candidate. Asked whether he was in touch with Binay, Marcos said not personally but through “intermediaries” whom he was in constant communication with. Always standing by Estrada Hours before Poe’s announcement, United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) secretary general JV Bautista said the party was still hoping that former President and now Manila Mayor Joseph “Erap” Estrada would support UNA in next year’s elections.
Dateline PhiliPPines
Bautista said it was the party that was by Estrada’s side “in his recent political activities.” “We believe that the politics of Erap will somehow be seriously considered,” Bautista told reporters on the sidelines of a media forum in San Juan City. In recent interviews, Estrada said he was caught in a dilemma—whom to choose among the three presidential contenders he would support. Erap’s ties to Poe The former President noted that Roxas was a very good Cabinet member during his shortlived presidency, Binay was a close friend and Poe his godchild and the daughter of his bosom friend—the late movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ). Estrada is believed to be more inclined to endorse the candidacy of Poe as he wasn’t able to personally campaign for the presidential bid of FPJ in 2004 because he was then incarcerated for the crime of plunder. Apart from endorsing and campaigning for the junior senator’s run for Malacañang, Bautista said there were “many ways” Estrada could return the favor to FPJ. “Paying back to FPJ is more a matter of ensuring the memory of FPJ will always be in the minds of Filipinos,” he said, which he added Estrada has been doing. Bautista pointed out that Binay has always been by Estrada’s side through all his political fights, as well as FPJ’s till the end. “There was not a single instance that Binay left him. Where should the payback be?” he said, adding that he hopes Estrada would make a “political decision which would benefit the country.” (Carla P. Gomez, Christine O. Avendaño and Niña P. Calleja/Inquirer.net)
Title II threatens minority populations...
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owned businesses. These businesses generate over $181 billion in annual revenue, employ over 910,135 people, and have an annual payroll of $26 billion. Heavy federal regulations place a huge burden on our tech startups and entrepreneurs. Other businesses throughout the country will also suffer if burdensome regulations con-
tinue to make it more difficult to benefit from modern broadband services. These early signs of trouble caused by Title II regulations should not be taken lightly. It’s not too late to heed those warnings and correct course, thereby securing a future of innovation, possibilities, and continued investment, not only for the benefit of our Asian Pacific Islander
communities and businesses but for our overall economy and for all Americans. *** Bill Imada is the Chairman and Chief Connectivity Officer of the IW Group, Inc. Imada is also a Board Member of the California Asian Pacific Chamber of Commerce, and Co-Founder/Board Member of the Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce & Entrepreneurship.
OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • SEptEmbER 18-24, 2015
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Study: Older AAPIs rely on social security as... PAGE A1
Daphne Kwok, AARP Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American and Pacific Islander Audience in a statement. “AARP works to strengthen Social Security because the vast majority of Americans of all ages believe it is important to provide financial security for everyone.” As recent immigrants, AAPIs have lower median Social Security incomes according to an AARP report issued last year. Therefore, they are less likely than African Americans, Hispanics, and whites to depend on Social Security for 50 percent or more of their family income. Older minorities are less likely than whites to have family income other than Social Security. A little more than half (53.4 percent) of AAPIs age 65 and older own have income from assets, but only a quarter (24.4 percent) have income from pensions and retirement savings. As a whole, 86 percent of Americans ages 65 and older count Social Security as a source of family income. The reliance on the program increases with age: about 34 percent of people ages 65-69 depend on Social Security for 50 percent or more of their family income, compared with 59 percent of people ages 80 and over.
A key finding includes the dependence of women on Social Security because on average, they live longer and earn less than men do. Social Security income kept roughly 33 percent of older Americans, about 14.7 million people, out of poverty in 2013. The poor (income below poverty line) and the near-poor (income between 100 and 150 percent of the poverty line) rely on Social Security for a significant share of their family income. The report also found that Social Security is funded with $2.8 trillion in reserves, and the estimated value is expected to reach $2.9 trillion by 2020. However, the trust funds’ reserves will begin to be drawn down in order to pay full benefits. The reserves are projected to
Bridging the gap
PAGE A6 concerned about getting favorable economic ratings on his administration. Apparently this is more for “propaganda effect” to show that his administration’s economic performance is outstanding. In the long run however, it is quite obvious that such stance will be more beneficial to the affluent and rich businessmen than with actually helping the low income earners increase their meager earnings and improve their lives even a little bit. The proposal to lower the income tax however is actually more beneficial to our country. Admittedly, it will lower the government revenues. And lowering government revenues will mean that there will be less money in the government coffers that will be stolen by government officials. So less revenue means less graft and corruption in the government. It would seem therefore that this proposal is one of the more effective ways of fighting and even eventually eradicating the many corrupt practices plaguing every administration which are the very
cause of chronic poverty in our country. I am not an economist but common sense tells me that lowering the income tax will also mean empowering the low income earners in terms of increasing their means of livelihood. More income will give them more buying power which will thus stimulate spending that will propel the start of economic progress. Besides, more income will provide them with more resources that may even enable them not only to save more but to engage in some small but profitable businesses. Eventually therefore, a stronger and bigger middle class will emerge. A stronger and bigger middle class is thus a very important factor in achieving sustained and all inclusive economic growth. It will bridge the wide gap between the rich and poor in our country. More people will enjoy the country’s wealth and resources instead of the present 10 percent of the population owning almost 80 percent thereof. The poor will not become poorer while the rich will not be-
be depleted by 2034 at this current rate if there is no legislative change. “The sooner policy makers agree on how to achieve longterm solvency, the less drastic any changes would need to be. Any changes to the program should be made gradually — so that people can plan for their futures — and should protect those in or near retirement,” the report stated. (AJPress)
come richer anymore. There will be a more equitable distribution of the country’s rich assets and resources. The elusive social justice will thus be attained leading to true and lasting peace. The proposal to lower the income tax will also be politically beneficial to our country. People will be more independent and will not just rely on the political largesse given by politicians who invariably use government money to dispense political patronage. With less people depending on dole outs given by politicians, political dynasties who perpetuate themselves in power because of the gap between the rich and poor electorate will gradually be eliminated. Thus in the long run we may even realize our long sought dream of having a government of the people, for the people and by the people. It would appear therefore that with his move thumbing down the proposal to lower the income tax, Aquino would like to maintain the present economic and political situation. This is really very sad. (Philstar)
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Claudine Barretto set to do another film Aiza Seguerra ‘hurt’ by ‘ASAP’ suspension by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com
MANILA—Claudine Barretto is set to fo another film after she’s done with Etiquette for Mistresses. “Ang focus ko ngayon is doing movies,” she said. “May TV show,” she added. “Hindi ko pa lang alam kasi usually kapag may ganyang pinaplano, inaantay mo talaga na malapit na mag-taping bago magsalita. Minsan kasi di natutuloy, naseshelved ganyan.” Nevertheless, she’s happy with her comeback project in ABS-CBN, which happens to be her third “naughty” role. “In real life mahiyain talaga ako,” she said. “Sobrang na-enjoy ko ‘yong role ko kasi parang dalawang pelikula lang po ang nagawa ko na medyo naughty ako, out of the box. Na-enjoy ko talaga siya.” Since her role is one of the five mistresses, Claudine was asked to comment about being a mistress. The actress paused for a while before saying that their film is not glorifying nor condemning
Caludine Barreto
mistresses. “Mahirap mag-judge ng tao,” she said. “Alam naman po natin ang tama, hindi naman po sa gino-glorify namin ang mistresses, pero hindi naman namin sila kinocondemn. I think dapat gano’n na lang ang paningin ng iba para wala po tayong nasasaktan na tao.” She added, “kasi mahirap talaga, sabi nga sa
trailer, it’s really hard to teach the heart to obey. In the end, it’s really our choice sa buhay, kung kaya ba natin na mayro’n tayong natatapakan o kung kaya nating magbigay.” Etiquette for Mistresses also stars Kris Aquino, Kim Chiu, Iza Calzado and Cheen Crab. Directed by Chito Roño. It will be in cinemas on September 30.
SINgeR Aiza Seguerra seems to have fallen victim to the raging network war between ABS-CBN and gMA-7 as she was forced to take a leave of absence from being a mainstay in the ABS-CBN Sunday variety show ASAP after taking a role in a show in the Kapuso network. In an interview with Pep. ph, Seguerra said that she understands the decision of the ABS-CBN management to suspend her from ASAP because she will join the cast of the gMA-7 show The Ryzza Mae Show Presents… Princess In The Palace which will air on September 21. She said that the war between the two TV networks intensified due to the growing popularity of split-screen lovers Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza of “AlDub” fame from gMA-7. “That’s how it is, alam naman natin na hanggang ngayon ay meron pa ring network ‘thing’ na nangyayari. especially, I think with the AlDub issue, medyo fierce
ngayon. So, yeah, I think, they are just protecting themselves,” Seguerra said. (That’s how it is, we know that until now, there is a network “thing” that is happening. especially, I think with the AlDub issue, it is slightly fierce. So, yeah, I think, they are just protecting themselves.) The singer added that the suspension was ABS-CBN’s way of deterring artists not to follow her lead. “Ang sabi lang nila, they don’t want to set a precedent na gawin din ito ng ibang artists sa kanila,” she said. (They said that they don’t want to set a precedent for the other artists to do it to them.) While she understands the reasons behind her suspension, Seguerra admitted that she is “hurt” by the decision of the management as she will miss her co-singers. “The Sessionistas, parte na kami ng buhay ng isa’t isa. Nagkaasawa na kaming lahat,
Aiza Seguerra
nagkaanak na yung iba, nandiyan kami for each other. I felt bad ’cause I would be missing the Sessionistas. “More than anything, more than the decision, I will miss the people I sing with,” she said. (The Sessionistas, we are part of each other’s lives. We have married, some already have children, we are there for each other. I felt bad ’cause I would be missing the Sessionistas. “More than anything, more than the decision, I will miss the people I sing with.) (Inquirer.net)
Rachelle Ann Go excited to play Fantine in PH Pinoy film makes it to Iraq’s int’l film festival A DAy after the news that the iconic musical Les Miserables is coming to Manila in 2016 broke out, singer-actress Rachelle Ann go on Thursday, Sept. 17 took to Instagram to share her excitement over playing the role of Fantine before her fellow Filipinos. “Words can’t describe what I’m feeling… I’m coming home next year to play Fantine in my hometown with the Australian cast! How amazing is that?!” go said. The singer said she specifically prayed that the production be staged in the country, adding that she was looking forward to share her performance to a Filipino audience.
“I’m excited to be with my loved ones and share with everyone what I’ve been doing here in London. I actually prayed for this to happen because I really miss my family! Waah! god is so good p.s. when you pray it’s so important to be specific hehe,” she added. go was chosen to play the role of Fantine in London’s West end production of Les Miserables in May, and made her debut in June. She also played the role of gigi in West end revival of Miss Saigon, which earned her the Whatsonstage Award for Best Supporting Actress in a Musical and Best Featured Actress in the BroadwayWorld West end awards. (Inquirer.net)
Rachelle Ann Go
MANILA—For the first time in decades, Philippine cinema made its presence felt in Iraq with the participation of an award-winning Filipino entry at the 3rd Duhok International Film Festival that is being held in the country’s northern autonomous Kurdistan region. The Philippine embassy in Baghdad said the Philippines made its debut in the Iraqi film festival with its entry, Children’s Show, the grand Prize winner at the recent gwangju International Film Festival in South Korea. The only entry from Southeast Asia, Children’s Show is the story of two young brothers who are forced to take part in
semi-legal boxing matches to support themselves and their grandmother. Directed by Roderick Cabrido, the film is in contention for the yilmaz guney Award for Best International FeatureLength Film and for the New Talent Award for the Best First or Second International Feature Length Film. The film previously won the Special Jury Prize, grand Jury Award for Best Screenplay and Fantastic Cinema emerging Filmmaker Award for Cabrido at the Fantastic Cinema Festival of the Film Society of Little Rock in Arkansas and the Special Jury Prize in the Orient express Section at the 35th Oporto
International Film Festival in Portugal. “We hope that Children’s Show would open the door for the participation of more Filipino films in Duhok and in the other film festivals in Iraq in the future,” said embassy Chargé d’Affaires elmer g. Cato. Chargé d’Affaires Cato joined producer Joseph Israel Laban during the opening ceremonies attended by Kurdistan Autonomous Region Prime Minister Nechirvan Barzani and other officials on September 09. He also attended the first screening with members of the Filipino Community in Duhok at the Mazi Mall Plus on September 10. (Philstar.com)
3 Explore the world with Lifestyle McDonald’s to fully transition to cage-free Network’s new travel shows Feed into that summertime wanderlust with the eggs for all restaurants in the US and Canada channel’s latest programming additions September 18-24, 2015
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REDWOOD City—Lifestyle Network awakens the adventurer within with the latest travel titles to join its programming line-up. Whether the dream destination is posh private resorts, zen and relaxation spots far away from city life, or unique metropolitan treasures, Lifestyle Network pulls up at all stops. Explore the world like never before, from diving into the spectacular underworld to walking through treetops and swinging across rope bridges. Trek through Phuket to Moscow, Mongolia to Bangkok, to uncover mysteries and marvels in Japan. Explore Asia on Mondays at 9pm PT. Travel Thru History on Friday nights at 9pm PT with the show that explores fascinating historical and cultural experiences. Join model and actress Jaymee Ong and her sister, Lindsay, on their quest to find the top spas of the continent. Spa Seekers goes great lengths – Indonesia to Maldives, Thailand to Taiwan with only one goal in
mind: To find and present you with the best spas of Asia on Sundays at 6pm PT. Elite Access is hosted by the International travel writer and Hong Kong socialite, Nora Leung, who goes around the world, discovering the best the world has to offer on Wednesdays at 9pm PT. “For our global Filipina viewers, life is one big adventure,” said Aileen Paredes, Channel Head for Lifestyle Network Global. “Our new programs were thoughtfully curated by our team, understanding that discovery and exploration enrich our experience, whether it means traveling by plane to a far off place or getting to a backyard gem by foot.” Don’t forget to keep discovering cities’ history, cuisine, and culture on XP GUIDE and continue following hot backpacker Jason Godfrey as he uncovers all the awesome things that make the Philippines a perfect TEN. Check local cable listings for Lifestyle Network.
OAK BROOK, Ill—To meet consumers’ changing expectations and preferences, McDonald’s announced that it will fully transition to cage-free eggs for its nearly 16,000 restaurants in the US and Canada over the next 10 years. “Our customers are increasingly interested in knowing more about their food and where it comes from,” said McDonald’s USA President Mike Andres. “Our decision to source only cage-free eggs reinforces the focus we’re placing on food quality and our menu to meet what consumers truly want.” “We’re proud of the work we’re doing with farmers and suppliers to advance environmentally and socially conscious practices for the animals in our supply chain,” said Marion Gross, senior vice president and Chief Supply Chain Officer of McDonald’s North America. “This is a bold move and we’re confident in our ability to provide a quality, safe, and consistent supply.” On an annual basis, McDonald’s USA purchases approximately two billion eggs and McDonald’s (Advertising Supplement) Canada purchases 120 million eggs to serve on its breakfast menus, which includes popular breakfast sandwiches, such as the Egg McMuffin and Egg White Delight. Since 2011, McDonald’s USA has
Kris Aquino hints ‘changes’ in MMFF movie with Herbert Bautista MANILA—Kris Aquino confirms that the 2015 Metro Manila Film Festival entry Mr. & Mrs. Split will push through, although with some changes. It was earlier report that Kris will star with son Bimby and son Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista in the movie, which will be directed by Antoinette Jadaone. “I want to make a categorical statement. It is pushing through, but there will be changes. Changes na I’m not allowed to mention kasi kailangan namin ng approval ng MMDA,” she replied when asked about the MMFF entry. Speculations that “Mr. & Mrs. Split” may not push through surfaced online due to Kris’ busy schedule. Apart from doing the daily morning show Kris TV, Kris also did Etiquette for Mistresses the past few months. When asked if Bautista will remain as her leading man, the Queen of All Media replied, “Categorically sabi ko I’m still involved kasi I can speak for myself, my son is involved because I’m his legal guardian but there will be additions to the cast and that’s it.” Kris also admitted having a meeting with ABS-CBN executive Cory Vidanes about some issues she raised about the film. “Gusto ko magpasalamat sa ABS-CBN dahil sa twenty years na nandito po ako pinapahalagahan nila kung anong importante sa akin while still believing in my respect and desire to fulfill my contract,” she said. Kris also announced that she’s leaving the late-night talk show
Kris Aquino
Aquino and Abunda Tonight due to health reasons. Meanwhile, Kris is excited for her film Etiquette for Mistresses where she starred with Claudine Barretto, Kim Chiu, Iza Calzado, and Cheena Crab. She admitted having hesitations at first to accept the role since “katakot-takot na endorsements ang baka masagasaan.” But after talking to ABS-CBN executive Malou Santos and director Chito Roño, she finally accepted the role. “Humingi lang ako ng redemption, kasi alam ko na from the start, ‘yong character na ipo-portray ko hindi family values ang pino-promote. So sabi ko [kay direk], ‘bigyan mo naman ako ng pagkakataon na maituwid ang daan ko,’” she relates.
Gab Valenciano: Local showbiz made me feel worthless
MANILA—Gab Valenciano took to social media to open up on why he left the Philippines and the local show business. In a Facebook post on Sunday, the 27-year-old artist, who left the Philippines to move to the United States in 2013 to study, said he was “secretly hiding under an umbrella of depression for a good four years, drowning in an industry I was never really accepted in and masking it by going out almost every night and making the worst decisions in life.” Gab added that while he will never forget his roots, he feels that “I don’t owe it a thing.” “The entertainment industry in the Philippines made me feel like one of the most worthless artists in the history of artists, and I’m sure many more can empathize but can’t speak out,” he said. The dancer-artist son of veteran singer Gary Valenciano also urged other artists to “take their craft to the next level by thinking global.” “We are Filipinos. One of the most creative, hard-working, intelligent and talented races in the world. Don’t think, do. I am writing this specifically for those people who feel like they are being taken for granted. The underdogs. You feel like the fire burning in you is
McDonald’s USA and Canada to source 100 percent cage-free eggs within 10 years
Gab Valenciano: “The entertainment industry in the Philippines made me feel like one of the most worthless artists in the history of artists.”
dying because your passion isn’t fueled up or supported by your very own country and countrymen. You deserve so much more and the only way to heal yourself is by making life-changing decisions. Step out of your comfort zone,” he said. Gab, who was an established artist and dancer before leaving for the country, gained popularity as a YouTube artist. He was also cited in Beyonce’s MTV Video Music Awards nomination for Best Choreography earlier this year. (Philstar.com)
been purchasing more than 13 million cage-free eggs annually. “Animal welfare has always been important to us and our customers,” added Gross. “Today’s announcement is another big milestone building on our work with industry experts and suppliers to improve the treatment of animals.” Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch, a family-owned and operated farm in Michigan, has worked with McDonald’s for decades to supply nutritious eggs. “Cage-free systems play an important role in our work to keep hens healthy and meet the growing consumer demand for responsibly-sourced food,” said Greg Herbruck, executive vice president of Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch. “We welcome McDonald’s actions to continue these efforts and are pleased to join them in sourcing cage-free eggs across their supply chain. We continue embracing new technologies and strategies to ensure our hens are well-cared for.” In 2000, McDonald’s USA was the first food service company to adopt a standard for hen housing systems, which provided more space per bird than the industry standard. In 2010, the company initiated research with the Coalition for a Sustainable Egg Supply to better understand the impact
of various hen housing systems on animal health and welfare, the environment, worker health, food safety and food affordability. This research provided important insights into the trade-offs of various housing systems for the company to make informed sourcing decisions. Today’s news follows other actions announced this year by McDonald’s USA to source only chicken raised without antibiotics important to human medicine by 2017 and to offer milk jugs of low-fat white milk and fat-free chocolate milk from cows that have not been treated with rbST, an artificial growth hormone.
In addition, McDonald’s USA introduced the Artisan Grilled Chicken patty, seasoned with simple, everyday ingredients and introduced a new contemporary salad blend of romaine, baby spinach and baby kale. McDonald’s is also moving from liquid margarine to real butter on English muffins, biscuits and bagels on the breakfast menu and has introduced a new Buttermilk Crispy Chicken, which uses real buttermilk in the breading. McDonald’s Canada introduced a salad leaf blend, including baby kale, in its three chef-inspired contemporary salads in May 2015.
(Advertising Supplement)
September 18-24, 2015
Naked Truth
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Holistic approach to skin whitening
scarring and hyperpigmentation. Skin darkening is caused by the overproduction of melanin. Think of it as a huge chunk of rock that Dr. Vicki Belo accumulates over time in your skin. It can be stubborn and hard to remove. Prolonged or frequent exposure HI Dr. Vicki! I have been a fan of your TV show to the sun’s UV rays, hormonal changes such as pregnancy ever since I saw it 3 years ago! I was even more thrilled when I saw that you or use of birth control pills or a result of an allergic reaction to have a column so I took the courage a substance applied on the skin to send you an email. Doc, I was born are among the primary causes of with brown skin as most Filipinos are. hyperpigmentation. However, I noticed that over the years Always remember that there I have developed dark patches on my face and body. Also, my skin got darker. is no one-solution-fits-all when I have tried so many whitening soaps, it comes to whitening. Though using creams and lotions help in lotions, creams and still to no avail. lightening of the skin, it does not Some products have even caused the totally address the concern. dark spots to spread! Please help me What you need is to get a proper on how I can get whiter skin. assessment of your skin condition. P.S. More power to your column! Also, what you have to know Love, Trish is that whitening is a continuous process and must be maintained on Many Filipinos are born with a regular basis. dark skin. We call it “kayumanggi”. At Belo we have developed This skin type is more prone to
a skin whitening system that guarantees to lighten skin four tones lighter. We call it the lumina system. It is a unique combination of in-clinic treatments and specially formulated products to help you get a healthy fairer skin. It is our holistic approach to skin whitening. It starts with preventing melanin production, removing melanin on the top layer of the skin and even infusing the body with antioxidants to help maintain the healthy glow. The type, quantity, frequency and combination of products and treatments will vary depending on your skin condition and needs. Thank you Trish for trusting me with your beauty concern! Always remember that you only have one face and one body so make sure that when it comes to your beauty it has to be done right the first time. Again I encourage everyone to send your beauty concerns at vicki@belomed. com and let’s all get belofied! Love, Dr. Belo
World’s largest baccarat tournament returns to The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas on October 2 with $10,000,000 global prize pool Complimentary entry for Grazie members in first two tournaments of the Annual Grand Dragon Master Baccarat Championship
LAS VegAS—The Annual grand Dragon Master Baccarat Championship, with a total global prize pool worth over $10,000,000, kicks off the Las Vegas leg of the competition on Oct. 2, 2015 at The Palazzo. The global championship spans Las Vegas Sands properties in Macao and Singapore. The grand Dragon Master Baccarat Championship provides baccarat enthusiasts the ultimate tournament experience. Las Vegas players can compete for a portion of a $1.6 million prize pool over three tournaments - the $280,000 golden Dragon Baccarat Tournament, the $350,000 Ruby Dragon Baccarat Tournament, and the invitationonly $1 Million Royal Dragon Baccarat Tournament – all
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Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA
Mining memories of Mindoro “Take care of all your memories, for you cannot relive them.”
— Robert Frost
(First of 2 parts)
EVERY place I have ever been to is made significant by the images and thoughts I have of people, places and experiences that still live on in my memory. For Mindoro, it’s memories of my father, this place called Naujan and sizzling hot summer days. While my father worked as ship captain plying the interisland routes and waterways and later on, the high seas on international assignments, my mother raised a big brood of seven girls and a boy practically all by herself. During school breaks, she would pack the girls off for summer vacation to our grandparents’ home in Naujan, Oriental Mindoro. It was then a half day’s trip from Manila via Batangas City. I was so excited, I thought my heart would burst. Time can dull memories and I wasn’t ready to let go of the past just yet. Not until I’ve come full circle. I was determined to see this place one more time to rekindle the memories of glorious summers spent as a pint-sized kid gamboling about like a frisky, wet puppy, with my sisters and cousins in the beaches of Kanipisan and Aplaya. These were seaside beach towns abutting this tiny town called Naujan. It was the place my father, Manolo, the eldest of a brood of siblings, were born and raised. Those memories sparkle. They were happy, carefree, innocent, idyllic days of sun, sand, sea and simple pleasures. Lola would instruct Miguel, a trusted farm hand to bring us to the niyugan, or coconut plantation. Miguel would know exactly which trees to climb and with his gulok, (a Tagalog term for a machete), chop off the young nuts which fell to the ground with a thud. We drank cool, clear coconut juice straight out of its shell and with a teaspoon in one hand, scraped off the sides of the young nut, called malauhog by locals. These are young coconut flesh, resembling the consistency of early stage, transparent phlegm. Alright. Ewwwww. But who cares? When you’re young, unpretentious and really hungry, your grumbling stomach is the boss. Calapan is the entryway from the Luzon mainland by air, land and sea to Oriental Mindoro. It enjoys a geographical proximity to the mainland and the shipping routes. It has a small pier in a cove where boats coming from Batangas docked. Calapan provides a bit of excitement that a sleepy town like Naujan couldn’t
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muster. In recent years, an SM store in town was a definite cause for celebration. Tio Oscar, my father’s youngest brother, was the town entrepreneur cum inventor who tried his hand at many things. He was short in stature but I remember him as a big kid with a pure sense of fun. He drove around town in an old, rickety open-topped, army surplus World War II vintage weapons carrier which he used for business and leisure. He hauled huge blocks of ice coated with ipa, those rice husks used to prevent the ice from melting for the hot, dusty trip between Calapan and the only restaurant in Naujan, which he and his wife Tia Celia, owned and operated at the time. During those days, electricity was miserly meted out from 6 in the evening till 6 in the morning — that is, — when the generators were working. The ice would chill Tio Oscar’s stash of soda in a cooler during the day and he would use the rest for the crushed ice for the best halo-halo in town. It was said that his halo-halo was so scrumptiously delicious, it would entice barefoot hordes of Mangyans to come down from the mountains and give themselves the cool treat. When Tio Oscar’s chores were done, he would then haul all of us, a ragtag band of scrawny, eager-beaver kids, off to the beach. We would bury our soda stash in the cold wet sand to chill it and rush to the sea and swim with abandon until our fingers and toes were wrinkled, our skin a few shades darker. By then we had worked up a fierce appetite. Tio Oscar’s hungry horde of kids would then mow down grilled fish either banak or banglis, tulingan, halabos na hipon and steaming rice mixed with raw eggs complimented by chopped-up pajo, red eggs and tomatoes. We built black sand sculptures which killjoy waves promptly crushed and swept back out to sea. We would kibitz and swarm about like pesky flies at the abundant haul of fishermen pulling in their nets bursting with their fresh catch of the day from the sea. Those were beautiful summer days. Life was good. Those days have ebbed and are gone forever. But pure joy still flows back with remembrance. I wanted to revisit the former site of my grandparent’s old place in the center of town where
my father was born in 1912. Vicente Adeva, my Lolo was an insular (meaning island) teacher who received his civil service appointment on July 01, 1907. One of the sepia photos my brother recovered from the old house was of Lolo who as Provincial Treasurer, and then Secretary posed with provincial officials and the American Governor General, Theodore Roosevelt Jr. The tall strapping American was appointed by President Herbert Hoover in 1932 as Governor General of what was then called the Philippine Islands. Papa was immensely proud of his roots and proud of being a Naujeno even when he lived in the US after retirement. While living in Glendale, California in his mid-eighties, he always looked forward to dressing to the nines in a tuxedo, and tripping the light fantastic whirling about on the dance floor with my mother or his daughters for the Naujeno Annual Ball in some posh Los Angeles hotel, half a world away from the place he loved. He may have wanted to reconnect with a few remaining old timers, people he had common ties with while growing up. But mostly during his last years, he was simply happy and content being home with my mother. If he had the chance however, he would have wanted to visit the place where he grew up —just one more time— before sudden death on a dreary and cold winter’s day overtook him. He was 87 years old. More than a decade later, I went in his stead. It was something I had planned on doing for some time, as a quiet tribute. For my part, I wanted to understand how such a place shaped who he is and what moved him to sail the seven seas for 40 years as a ship captain, hauling logs and cars and tons of containers from port to port— from Siberia to South Africa, from Pusan to Peru— bringing with him my mother’s keepsake, a small image of the Nuestra Senora de Antipolo, before the wanderlust gave out and he finally found home. He would have been surprised with the changes in his old hometown. (To be continued) ***
Immigration Essentials
consolidated date—the filing date and final action dates were the same. The new system will allow THE news from USCIS: immigrants to file for adjustment In an important departure from of status sooner than they would the current rules regarding when otherwise have been able to do, someone can apply for a Green Card, creating a number of positive USCIS has announced that starting outcomes. October 1, 2015, I-485, Applications The Benefits of the New Early for Adjustment of Status will be Filing Rules: accepted earlier than the date on Employment-based adjustment which a priority date is current. of status applicants and employers This is a major change in that can anticipate the following direct it will allow an employment-based benefits: Green Card applicant to submit • Applicants can file for their their application for early “preEmployment Authorization processing”. The new filing can Documents (EADs) together with be made months and, in some their “pre-processing” I-485, and cases, years, before it would have receive the EADs within 60-90 days. previously been possible. The move This may allow for greater workforce was first announced by the Obama mobility by lessening the reliance Administration in last November’s on some employers in the H-1B or immigration Executive Action rollout. L-1 context. The New Visa Bulletin – Two • Fewer H-1B and L-1 Dates to Understand amendments and extensions will The Visa Bulletin, which is be necessary, saving US companies published each month by the administrative, sponsorship and Department of State, will now filing fee costs. (This also saves contain two separate Employmentadministrative costs and resources based Visa Bulletin charts: one to the State Department by list is for “Application Final Action decreasing the amount of visas Dates” which detail the earliest they will need to adjudicate in these dates on which an application can categories.) be approved, and one is for “Dates • The early filing allows for Filing Applications” which lists applicants to avail of the AC-21 the dates on which applications portability rule, which allows for for adjustment of status can be a change of jobs 180 days after filed under “pre-processing”, and filing the I-485 without sacrificing then remain pending until the Final the underlying I-140 and pending Action Date is reached. Green Card. (Although it is not Previous iterations of the yet clear whether 3-year AC-21 Visa Bulletin only contained one extensions will be negatively
Atty. JEff KhurgEl
The Metamorphosis ErniE D. DElfin (Part 3 of 3)
OUR stay in Laoac afforded us to pay visit to the tombs of my departed parents, my two sisters and a niece in the local cemetery, and also to visit the famous Catholic Church of Our Lady of the Holy Rosary in Manaoag, now a Basilica, and my high school alma mater, Holy Rosary Academy, (now a branch of the Colegio De San Juan De Letran). After hectic days in my hometown, we proceeded to the town of Villasis, where we formally awarded the last four Gawad Kalinga houses to several family beneficiaries. We were hosted by our friends and fellow Rotarians, Pete and Rose Montilla, who founded the GK Villasis Namnama Village I. The event was well planned, starting with mid morning merienda of tinupig, fresh fruits, coffee and juices, while waiting for the guests coming as far as Mindoro, Manila, Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is Laguna and Tarlac. Our own Rotary SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To District Governor from Quezon send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ City, Gov. Dr. Rey David (D3780) and his classmate from Tarlac, asianjournalinc.com Governor Mai Ocampo (D3790) graced the occasion and witnessed the awarding of the houses that completed GK Villasis Namnama Village. Celebrating this event with us were also some GK National officers led by Jose Ma. Montelibano and Dolphy Lanuza and government officials from Villasis, Urdaneta and Laoac, Pangasinan, led by Laoac Mayor Boying Alarcio. After the short presentations of the children as well as the parents of the GK Village – to give their pasasalamat and gratitude for giving them a place they can call their home and more promising future
United Architects of the Philippine-SoCal Chapter reaches out to Fil-Am architects LOS ANGELES—At the September 12, 2015 General Membership meeting of the United Architects of the Philippines, the group unanimously agreed to do a more active participation in “community reach out” programs and projects and in getting more Fil-Am architects to join the group and get involved. This is an attempt to have more public exposure and awareness of the importance of our role in the community and the built environment. UAP will also work on putting together a syllabus in giving related seminars and workshops that will count towards Continuing Education Programs (CEPs) as this will be now required by PRC prior to renewing Architectural licenses in the Philippines. For further info, please contact UAP’s President, Milton Ogdoc at: mvo_arch@yahoo. com or uapsocal2014@gmail.com. Look us up on Facebook. UAP So. CAL aims to unite, help and coordinate all Fil-Am Architects and continue to advance the mission of our profession in enhancing, protecting and improving our environment and mother earth.
New rules for I-485 application-submission dates impacted by a potentially evolving definition of when a visa is available). • Applicants can file for their Advance Parole documents at the same time as their I-485. This allows applicants to travel and then return to the US without having to obtain a new visa from the Embassy or Consulate abroad. • The spouses and children (under 21) of applicants can apply for both EADs and APs. This allows for their work, and travel authorization, not to mention simply making life easier, such as by permitting them to apply for a social security number and acting as a reliable form of identification. • In a CSPA application, dependents who might otherwise “age out” by turning 21 may be able to keep their status as a derivative child by filing for adjustment of status within one year of the visa availability date. The new Visa Bulletin rules significantly modernize our immigration system and are a positive development for employment-based immigrants and US companies. We commend President Obama for following through on this important aspect of the immigration Executive Actions announced last November. *** Atty. Khurgel is a former USCIS and Department of State Embassy Officer with over ten years of government service and private immigration practice experience. His offices are located in Irvine, California.
US-born son’s first visit to his father’s roots in the Philippines -- came the blessings of the houses by a parish priest assigned to the local Guadalupe Church located in the same compound as the GK Village. Thereafter, the symbolic giving of an oversized wooden key to the last four houses to the family beneficiaries was done by this Rotarian-columnist, followed by another sumptuous lunch locally prepared by the GK residents. In my brief remarks, I tried to convey that “this event is not only a historical event but also an emotional moment for me,” simply because I could vividly reminisce and empathize with the life of these village children. Why? Simply because half a century ago, I was like any of these young boys that had almost nothing but their youthful dreams with a faith-filled prayer coupled with the hope or “namnama” that someday, they will also have the life that they dream about. Unfortunately, many of those dreams remained just a dream, as it is indeed very challenging and almost impossible for most to unshackled the pangs of poverty that many were born into. People need people (as a popular song of yesteryears declares), to share and lend a hand to sever strong chains of poverty. In my case, it was the Dominican Fathers who offered me scholarship to Letran where I graduated with a Degree in Business Administration, then becoming a CPA that granted me a passport to better things. “With that brief background, I am here now and in the years ahead to give back, to share my many blessings from God above, and to lend a hand and to help empower some who are not as fortunate. That is the mission and vision of
our Rotary Club and the ‘reason for being’ of our Gawad Kalinga Movement! For us, this mission of humanitarian service of giving hope and lending a hand is one formula of a rich and meaningful life. For us, that is a truer definition of success that cannot be measured.” Ending my brief speech, I took the courage and moment to acknowledge my son’s last full day in the Philippines, by quoting Martin Buxbaum, What is a Real Success: “. . . YOU can use most any measure when you’re speaking of success. You can measure it in fancy home, expensive car or dress; but the measure of your real success is one you cannot spend. It’s the way your son describes you when he’s talking to a friend!” Knowing my son the last 28 years, I am certain that he will be describing his recent cultural adventure and his unforgettable unique experiences in his Dad’s homeland to his friends, especially after a very especial father-son bonding for two solid weeks! (Upon my arrival a month later, his sister told me that he already narrated his experiences to her and some friends that his trip was indeed wonderful and that everything was great except those bold pesky mosquitoes that tried incessantly to taste his fresh American blood!) The Metamorphosis food for thought: “Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul.” -- Emily Dickinson In my next column: Rotary and Gawad Kalinga: Building houses and building up people. *** Email me at ernie.delfin@gmail.com. Visit www. rotaryeclubGlobalKalingaD3780.org.
A 19 year-old Filipino patient will meet his lifesaving bone marrow donor for the first time on Saturday, September 26 at A3M’s annual Gala Dinner WITNESS this momentous occasion at A3M’s Starnight 2015 Annual Gala Dinner. It will be a heartwarming experience that you will remember for a lifetime. You will also have the opportunity to meet Erica WelshWestfall, a courageous and loving mother. In spite of losing her baby daughter Sofia Flores, she continues to help patients in need of a bone marrow transplant by hosting drives. Sofia’s legacy survives in Erica’s continued efforts and patient advocacy. Erica will receive this
year’s Human Spirit Award in recognition of her commitment to saving lives. Join us for a delicious dinner and silent auction. Bid on items including iPads to exclusive jewelry, sports tickets, one of kind art pieces and many more. Additionally, meet other A3M supporters, community leaders, transplant physicians, surviving patients and dedicated volunteers. The emcee for the evening will be Denise Dador, the Emmy award winning health specialist of ABC 7.
Don’t miss this evening, filled with inspiration and hope! Saturday, September 26, 2015 5:00 pm Reception / Silent Auction 6:00 pm Dinner / Program The LA Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles 333 S. Figueroa St. Los Angeles 90071 Please visit our website, a3mHope.org to book dinner tickets and learn more about how you can help. Be the Hope Be the Miracle!
World’s Largest Baccarat Tournament returns to... From Page 4
Photos show the UAP Officers and Members at different meetings/events.
March 2016. Each advancer to the Global Final will receive roundtrip transportation to Singapore, accommodations at Marina Bay Sands, and a food and beverage allowance for the player and a guest. In addition, each advancer will receive one complimentary entry to the Semi-Finals of the
Global Final Tournament. The traditional table game of baccarat has taken on a new level of popularity with American audiences, so much so that The Venetian and The Palazzo have taken strides to make the game much more accessible to players with traditional tables available from only a $25 minimum bet, as
well as the only Imperial Baccarat on the Strip – a live dealt $5 minimum baccarat played on an electronic betting terminal. For more information, visit venetian.com/dragon or call (866) 898-8013. *Based on accumulated total prize amount from Las Vegas, Macao, and Singapore
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September 18-24, 2015 www.asianjournal.com
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