Orange County/Inland Empire -- August 07 -- 13, 2015

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by ALEXIS

ROMERO Philstar.com

MANILAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;The Department of National Defense (DND) on Thursday, Aug. 6 challenged China to prove that it has really stopped its reclamation activities in the South China Sea. DND spokesman Peter Galvez said China could prove its sincerity by pulling out the equipment used to build structures on the disputed reefs. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The region would be glad to see a genuine proof of sincerity,â&#x20AC;? Galvez said in a text message. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The best proof would be the pull out of all equipment as a clear and unequivocal manifestation of that announceK_\ G_`c`gg`e\j _Xj XjjX`c\[ :_`eXĂ&#x2039;j XZk`m`k`\j# jXp`e^ k_\p m`fcXk\ k_\ )'') ;\ZcXdXk`fe fe k_\ :fe[lZk f] ment,â&#x20AC;? he added.

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DATELINE

sive reclamation program in Panganiban (Mischief), Zamora (Subi), Kagitingan (Fiery Cross), Kennan (Chigua), Mabini (Johnson South), Burgos (Gaven) and Calderon (Cuarteron) Reefs, areas also being claimed by the Philippines.

Security officials said China is building artificial islands with airstrips, radar systems and military barracks on the reefs.

The Philippines has assailed Chinaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities, saying they violate the 2002 Declamation on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, which prohibits actions that will change the status quo in disputed areas.

China insists that it has â&#x20AC;&#x153;indisputable sovereigntyâ&#x20AC;? over the reefs and even

Binay hits â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ineptâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; govâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t

USA

by WILLIAM

B. DEPASUPIL ManilaTimes.net

FROM THE AJPRESS NEWS TEAM ACROSS AMERICA

Fil-Am caught for posing as modeling agent for sex crimes A FIL-AM male from San Diego, California could face 13 years in prison if he is found guilty of posing as a modeling agent to lure women into modeling nude for photographs, and then blackmailing them to perform sex acts, according to San Diego County prosecutors.

Maverick Mendez Rosales, also known as Michael, pleaded not guilty to extortion, two counts of oral copulation by duress, one count of rape, and misdemeanor sexual battery. He was ordered held on $300,000 bail.

San Diego County District Attorney Bonnie Dumanis announced that prosecutors have filed felony charges against G8>< 8)

claimed to be the victim in the territorial row.

On Wednesday, Aug. 5, China, through its foreign minister Wang Yi, said it has stopped land reclamation in the South China Sea and renewed its support to peaceful ways of resolving disputes.

China, which claims virtually the entire South China Sea, also cited the need to respect the efforts made by China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to address the issue.

Three ASEAN members namely Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei as well as Taiwan have overlapping claims in the South China Sea. Galvez said the halting of reclamation activities did not undo the violations G8>< 8)

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VICE President Jejomar Binay on Monday, Aug. 3, delivered his version of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;trueâ&#x20AC;?

State of the Nation Address (SONA), scoring the Aquino administrationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s failure to address corruption, extreme poverty and social inequality.

During his true SONA held at the Cavite State University in Indang, Cavite, the Vice President said the economic growth presented during President Benigno Aquino 3rdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s SONA last week masked the â&#x20AC;&#x153;painful truthâ&#x20AC;? that only a few benefited from such progress.

He noted that only rich Filipinos and those close to the President such as his friends, classmates and members of the Liberal Party (LP) gained from the â&#x20AC;&#x153;much-vaunted economic growth.â&#x20AC;?

Majority of the Filipinos, Binay said, are still â&#x20AC;&#x153;poor, hungry

and unemployedâ&#x20AC;? even after five years of the Aquino administration. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Napakadaling mamulot ng numero, mga numerong sa unang tingin ay makislap at kagiliw-giliw,â&#x20AC;? he added.

Binay, who received thunderous applause from the crowd, said while the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s economic indicators have gone up, the numbers â&#x20AC;&#x153;conceal the painful truthâ&#x20AC;? that growth has benefited only a handful.

And while those who are rich and the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s allies continue to gain from the socalled economic growth, the Vice President also noted that workers, farmers, poor city dwellers, government employees and millions of Filipinos â&#x20AC;&#x153;did not benefit from the developments.â&#x20AC;?

He said while the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s foreign direct investments (FDIs) exceeded P6 billion in G8>< 8)

Grace Poe: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;I am Filipino by birth, abode and choiceâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Roxas: I have Welcomes filing of petition against her been fair to all

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SENATOR Grace Poe heaved a sigh of relief on Thursday, Aug. 6 that a petition to unseat her was finally filed at the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET) as she could now answer the questions on her citizenship and residency. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am actually relieved that a petition has been filed so that I can answer the questions on my citizenship and residency. It is an opportunity for the truth to come

out and for this issue to be resolved once and for all,â&#x20AC;? Poe said in a text message to reporters. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I assure the 20 million plus fellow Filipinos who voted for me, as well as the rest of the country, that their confidence in me is not misplaced. I remain truthful to our countrymen. I am a Filipino by birth, abode and choice,â&#x20AC;? she added.

G8>< 8)

by DENNIS

CARCAMO Philstar.com

MANILAâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Outgoing Interior and Local Government Mar Roxas on Thursday, Aug 6, said he has been fair in executing his duties as head of the government department for the last five years.

In his speech before the general assembly of the League of ProvG8>< 8)

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Philippine delegation wins 59 medals at 2015 Special Olympics World Games

by AGNES

CONSTANTE AJPress

AFTER a week of competition against more than 6,000 athletes from 165 countries, the 35 athletes representing the Philippines claimed 59 medals during the 2015 Special Olympics World Games in Los Angeles.

From July 26 to Aug. 1, the Philippines competed in seven categoriesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;aquatics, athletics (track and field), badminton, 8k_c\k\j i\gi\j\ek`e^ k_\ G_`c`gg`e\j `e k_\ )'(, Jg\Z`Xc Fcpdg`Zj Nfic[ >Xd\j ^Xk_\i\[ fe Dfe[Xp# 8l^% *# ]fi X Ă&#x201D;eXc cleZ_ Xk 9X_Xp BlYf I\jkXliXek `e ?`jkfi`Z =`c`g`efkfne% K_\ k\Xd nfe ,0 d\[Xcj Xk k_\ ^Xd\j k_`j p\Xi% K_\ dXafi`kp f] [\c\^Xk\j Ă&#x2022;\n YXZb kf k_\ bowling, gymnastics, powerlifting G_`c`gg`e\j Dfe[Xp \m\e`e^% 8AGi\jj g_fkf Yp 8e[p K\Zjfe and unified footballâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;at facilities

at UCLA, the University of Southern California and the Los Angeles Convention Center. At the end of the games, the team had won 21 gold, 14 silver and 24 bronze medals.

The fact that the number of Philippine wins exceeded the number of athletes wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t a surprise for Kaye Samson, assistant head of the delegation. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Every time we go to the World Games we always win more medals than the actual persons [on the team]. Always,â&#x20AC;? she told the Asian Journal.

But the one thing stood out this year stood out this year, Samson said, is that the Philippines took home more gold medals. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very happy because those who won gold medals, some of them are first timers to the World Games,â&#x20AC;? she said.

At the close of the games, Philippine athletes wore smiles to accompany the medals hanging around their necks, while coaches expressed satisfaction with the performance of their teams.

Among them was Edvin Cabrera, aquatics head coach and a teacher

A

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august 7-13, 2015 • OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL

From the Front Page

Philippines to China on...

PAGE A1 committed by China.

“Although we welcome the announcement, it is better if you ask the Chinese government about that,” the defense official said.

“Nonetheless a stop in the reclamation doesn’t change the fact that they have violated the agreement among states, disrespected

nations in the area and violated our maritime rights placing the region in crisis,” he added.

China’s construction activities did not sit well with members of the international community who are wary of their possible impact on freedom of navigation.

The G-7 and m Association of Southeast Asian Nations have

called on China to stop the reclamation and other activities that would create tensions in the region.

The island-building has damaged coral reef systems in the South China Sea and have resulted in $281 million worth of economic losses per year, according to Philippine officials.

Grace Poe: ‘I am Filipino by birth, abode...

PAGE A1 Losing senatorial bet Rizalito David initially planned to file the petition against Poe Wednesday, Aug. 5 but failed due to lack of filing fee.

According to David’s quo warranto petition, Poe is ineligible to remain in the Senate because she is foundling, or a “stateless” being.

David said this means Poe is not a “natural-born citizen,” as required for in the Constitution for senators.

Poe was abandoned in a church in Jaro, Iloilo province before she was adopted by the late action star Fernando Poe Jr. (FPJ) and actress Susan Roces.

“Being a foundling, her parents are not known and cannot be presumed as Filipino citizens, hence she cannot claim or acquire the status of a natural-born citizen,” David said.

David, however, was not the first to raise the issue of being a Filipino citizen or being a foundling against Grace Poe. In June, United Nationalist Alliance stalwarts Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco and lawyer Andy Bautista questioned Poe’s eligibility to run in 2016 using the same grounds.

The lady senator earlier described the move as a desperate act meant to stop her possible run in 2016.

Poe has yet to decide whether or not to run for a higher post next year but she already emerged as the voters’ choice for president based on the latest voters’ preference surveys. (Inquirer.net)

Roxas: I have been fair to all PAGE A1

inces in the Philippines, Roxas said he has treated local officials fairly, giving them equal share of the budget.

“All these last five years, I tried to be fair, to wear blinders, na hindi pulitika pero ‘yung kabutihan ng bansa natin ang patakaran na ginagamit. Nakita po ninyo ‘yan sa ating paggawa ng BuB [Bottom up Budgeting], pantay-pantay para sa lahat.

Hindi tinatanong kung ano ang chaleco.

“Ganoon din po sa aming pagbigay ng police patrol jeeps, pantay-pantay, hindi po tinatanong kung sino ang political na dynamic sa lugar. At sa lahat ng aming

gawain, sinikap namin na maging pantay at mangibabaw parati ang pangkalahatang interes,” said Roxas, the standard bearer of the Liberal Party in the 2016 polls.

Roxas thanked the provincial and local executives for their warm welcome during his visit for the distribution of patrol jeeps and other livelihood implements to their constituents.

He also took the opportunity to bid the provincial government officials goodbye as he is about to leave the department to run in the presidential derby next year.

“Nagpapaalam po ako sa inyo at nais ko pong malaman ninyo at maparating sa inyo na I found our work together to be very very ful-

filling, very, very rewarding and validating,” Roxas said.

Roxas also called on the provincial executives to practice the “Daang Matuwid” principle of the Aquino administration.

“Inaasahan ko na patuloy ang ating pagsasama, patuloy ang ating pagtatahak sa Daang Matuwid na kung saan ay magiging kabahagi tayo. Patuloy ang ating pakikibahagi sa isang movement, sa isang gawain na mas higit pa sa kahit sinong personal na tao,” he said.

Roxas is expected to go up against United Nationalist Alliance standard bearer, Vice President Jejomar Binay, in the 2016 presidential race.

Fil-Am caught for posing as modeling...

PAGE A1

Rosales, who is accused of running a fake modeling agency for years.

The 24-year-old allegedly took nude photos of the young women for the “modeling agency,” and then later threatened to release the photos on the Internet or to the women’s families if they did not perform sex acts or give him money.

Rosales solicited the unidentified women using online sites such as Craigslist and Facebook.

One of the women was allegedly

extorted for her nude photos for two years, said Deputy District Attorney Martin Doyle.

Two of the victims are named in a criminal complaint against Rosales, who was arrested Wednesday, July 29 in Mission Valley.

Doyle said authorities believe there are still more victims of the sex schemes. The investigation is ongoing.

“We certainly hope that any additional victims of Mr. Rosales come forward,” the prosecutor said. “We’re committed to holding him accountable for what he

Binay hits ‘inept’...

PAGE A1

2014, Aquino did not say this is the lowest FDI among countries in Southeast Asia.

Although the 2014 FDIs are record-breaking, they did not result in employment for the majority, the Vice President said.

The labor-intensive sectors like manufacturing and mining got only six percent of the FDIs, Binay said.

And while the Philippines’ upgraded credit ratings helped in attracting foreign investors, they did not translate into actual investments because of constraints in the Constitution’s economic provisions.

Binay had always been vocal in saying that he will push for amendment to economic provisions of the Constitution if he wins the presidency.

In his address, he said that once these provisions are amended, the primary sectors of the country would be opened to foreign investors, resulting in increased jobs

and employment opportunities for Filipinos.

The amended economic provisions would also develop public utilities and speed up formation of public-private partnerships, as well as improved services and facilities for the public.

Binay also questioned the figures presented in the President’s SONA, showing a decrease in the number of poor Filipinos.

“Ang hindi sinasabi ng administrasyon, napakababa ng kanilang batayan ng poverty threshold. Para sa kanila, kapag may limampu’t walong piso [P58] ka nang panggastos sa isang araw, ay hindi ka na ituturing na ‘mahirap.’”

He cited the latest Social Weather Station (SWS) survey showing that five in 10 Filipinos believe they are poor.

That translates to more than 11 million people, saying that even after five years of the daang matuwid (right path), they remain stuck in poverty.

Binay further questioned the

did to each of you, and we hope that you have the courage to call the District Attorney’s Office and let us know what happened to you as well.”

A readiness conference was set for August 11, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for August 13.

Anyone who believes they could have been a victim of Rosales are asked to call District Attorney Investigator Nancy Dodd at 619-615-6864. (Allyson Escobar/AJPress with reports from Inquirer, San Diego 6, NBC San Diego, ABC10 News San Diego)

President’s claim that there are fewer overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) now because there are a lot of job opportunities in the country.

Citing data from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), he said there has been an increase in the number of Filipinos wanting to leave the Philippines to find work in other countries.

From 2,500 average daily deployment before Aquino became President, the number rose to 6,092 during the first quarter of this year.

Binay also noted the “incompetence and insensitivity” of the Aquino administration.

He said the “insensitivity” was seen on how the administration addressed the incidents in Luneta (Rizal Park in Manila), Tacloban City, Zamboanga and Mamasapano.

In August 2010, a hostage-taking in Luneta hogged headlines PAGE A5

Philippine delegation wins 59 medals...

PAGE A1

at SPED Integrated School for Exceptional Children in Iloilo City.

The four swimmers on her team won four gold and one bronze.

Athletics coach Christian Doroin said his team performed “pretty well,” receiving a mix of gold, silver and bronze medals.

“We’re just really happy everyone was able to compete and did their best,” he said.

More than medals While the Philippines won a number of awards, Samson said the athletes’ victories extended beyond the tangible recognition.

“Just by looking at them smiling, very happy, you can see those who were quiet before are now becoming outgoing. And they’re saying that, ‘Yeah when we go back, our parents will be proud,’ or, ‘Our classmates won’t bully us anymore,’” Samson said. “So it’s really not just the sports that they won, it’s not the medals, but the experience that helped them grow. In just two weeks, they’ve

changed.”

Cabrera specifically pointed out how athletics athlete Aira Aguado transformed into a more social person by the end of the World Games.

“Nag iba talaga. Kasi itong si Aira, parang walang self-confidence. Very introverted [siya], hindi nakikipagusap [sa iba].

Ngayon masayahin na siya, nakikipagkaibigan (She really changed.

Aira seemed like she didn’t have self-confidence. She’s very introverted, she didn’t talk to others.

Now, she’s happy and goes out to make friends),” Cabrera said.

At the World Games, a medical festival that provides free health exams for the athletes resulted in further wins for the Philippines.

For instance, the delegation learned through the festival that rhythmic gymnast Jovelyn Gacayan—who won five gold medals, one silver and one bronze—was blind in one eye and deaf in one ear. It was also found that the extent of aquatics athlete Ron-

nin Talaboc’s hearing impairment was profound.

In less than an hour, Samson said Talaboc was provided hearing aids.

“When he tested it, he was so surprised. I saw that big smile on his face when the doctor put the aid on him. It’s things like that you can only see in Special Olympics,” she said.

A number of Philippine athletes also received prescription glasses through the Special Olympics.

“Many of [these athletes] cannot communicate verbally. A lot of them cannot express what they feel, so through the specialized program for the athletes, they’re able to detect if they have [any health problems],” Samson said.

The 2015 World Games also marked the first time for most Philippine athletes to attend an international event, visit the United States and experience air travel.

“It’s very exciting to be able to ride the airplane for the first time, PAGE A5

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OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • august 7-13, 2015

D ateline Philippines House urged to restore 28 deleted BBL provisions Santiago as Binay running mate

by Paolo

Romero Philstar.com

MANILA—The Bangsamoro Transition Commission (BTC) has formally asked Congress to restore at least 28 provisions in the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) that the House of Representatives’ ad hoc committee deleted prior to presenting the draft measure for plenary debates.

In a letter to Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. dated July 29, 2015, BTC chairman Mohaquer Iqbal said he is furnishing the House a copy of the commission’s Resolution 005 series of 2015 supporting the passage in Congress of the BBL “in its original form.”

“The BTC implores the better judgment of the leadership of both houses of Congress to pass the BBL in its original form and to henceforth act according to the terms of the peace agreements,” the resolution stated.

The resolution stated the BBL was consistent with the Framework Agreement on the Bangsamoro (FAB) and the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB) entered into by the government with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last year.

“The BTC stands firm that the proposed BBL in its original form is the most appropriate version based on the FAB and CAB, and considering that it is the one that underwent the legitimate process of consultation with the people and engagement with the Office of the President,” it stated.

The letter came as the House is set to resume next week plenary deliberations on the BBL, which seeks to create a new autonomous region in Mindanao.

Belmonte said the target was to approve the measure by September or before the chamber gets busy discussing the proposed P3.002-trillion national budget for 2016.

The BTC was created in 2013 to write the draft of the BBL. Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, chairman of the ad hoc committee, said it would be difficult for the House to accede to the BTC’s request, considering the draft BBL was a product of 49

public hearings—half of which were held in Mindanao—that were marked by intense debates.

Rodriguez pointed out the provisions removed by the ad hoc panel were considered to be unconstitutional.

Among the controversial provisions the BTC wants restored are certain powers supposedly exclusive to the national government; allowing contiguous areas to join the Bangsamoro region upon the petition of 10 percent of its residents; making internal security a concurrent power with the Bangsamoro government; and creating a separate Bangsamoro military command.

Meanwhile, a member of the government peace panel legal team reiterated the decommissioning of the arms and forces of the MILF do not need to be included in the BBL. “We have explained many times before that decommissioning as well as the broader normalization process need not be in the BBL,” said Sittie Amirah Pendatun, a member of the government peace panel legal team.

Pendatun made the statement in reaction to the pronouncements of Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. that one reason for the delay in the submission of his committee report on the BBL is the difficulty in incorporating provisions on the decommissioning of MILF weapons and combatants.

Pendatun said the primary reason decommissioning and the normalization process are not in the proposed BBL is because the Constitution prohibits the creation of a bill with more than one subject.

She cited Article VI, Section 26(1) of the 1987 Constitution that provides “every bill passed by the Congress shall embrace only one subject which shall be expressed in the title thereof.”

“The BBL is really about the establishment of an autonomous region. It’s about the creation of a political entity which seeks to establish an inclusive system of governance for a multicultural segment of the Philippine population, and not about the MILF per se,” Pendatun said.

Robredo: VP post too big for me

by Rosette

Adel

Philstar.com

MANILA—Camarines Sur Rep. Maria Leonor “Leni” Robredo on Thursday, Aug. 6 again denied running for vice president in next year’s national election since she considers the position too big of a responsibility for her.

“That is too big position for me,” Robredo said during the 1st Public Management Development Program Leadership Conference. “I’m not running for vice president,” she said.

The widow of former Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo said since she only has two years of experience in Congress, running for the country’s second highest post is too early for her.

“I still have to learn,” Robredo said.

Robredo opted to focus in serving her constituents in Camarines Sur instead of running for a higher post.

“I’m not ready to leave my district because it’s still very delicate. Camarines Sur is only starting to change its mindset on how to perceive government officials,” Robredo said.

Robredo said people from Naga, Camarines Sur would not vote for anyone who would not go for good governance.

She said that although she has agreed with her children to be in the House of Representatives for just one term, she considers extending another term to continue her reforms and projects in Camarines Sur.

Philippine delegation wins... go to America, meet the whole world and then win medals,” Samson said.

What’s in store The majority of the Philippine delegation flew back to the country on Monday, Aug. 3, also taking home valuable lessons that team leaders plan on implementing for upcoming Special Olympics.

In 2017, Austria will host the Special Olympics World Winter Games. However, the Philippines will not be participating as it does not have any winter sports. Looking ahead, Samson said the Philippines would like to participate in indoor events, such as floor hockey or figure skating.

She added that she learned other countries without winters practice skiing in the sand, something the Philippines may be able to do.

Delia Ortega, head of the delegation, said the team also learned it needs to discipline the athletes better.

“The most challenging [part this year] was motivating them to be more serious with the games,” she said. “Hindi sila masyadong seryoso kasi marami pa ang bago.

Bago to the sport, bago to the World Games (They weren’t too serious because many of them are new. New to the sport, new to the World Games).”

Additionally, Ortega and Samson want to focus on professional coach training.

“We need high-caliber coaches because Special Olympics is now raising the standards of sports programming because we believe they can do it. It’s not just for fun.

They’re real athletes,” Samson said.

Although the team’s coaches

are certified, Samson said there is a difference when a coach is, for instance, from the NBA. The team has approached professionals, but they have asked for fees that the team cannot afford due to a lack of funding.

“We really need to zoom into sports-specific training because in the Philippines, we lack coaches. That’s why we go into multisports,” Samson said.

Coaches on the Philippines Special Olympics team donate their time with no pay, and are hoping for future support from corporations and governments.

But even without such aid, Philippine volunteers invest in the World Games for the betterment of the athletes.

“Yung pagsali ko sa Special Olympics as a volunteer, talagang passion ko ito, yung sports for these kids. You know they can’t excel academically, so itong sports [ang] parang mag booboost ng ego, ng self-confidence [nila] (My participation in Special Olympics as a volunteer, it’s really my passion, the sports for these kids. You know they can’t excel academically, so these sports are what boost their ego and self-confidence),” Cabrera said.

Witnessing athletes transformation into improved versions of themselves also makes volunteering time well-spent.

“Our athletes change right before our eyes every day in training, in competition. Just to see them develop in sports, in their other skills, like social skills and cognitive skills, it’s very rewarding. Nothing will really compare to that experience. No money, no salary will ever compare to that,” Samson said.

“For this reason, the normalization program is not a pertinent subject of the proposed BBL,” she added.

“In fact, if we include two subjects, there’s a possibility that this will be challenged in court for non-compliance with the constitutional requirement.”

Pendatun added the decommissioning process does not need new legislation as it is within the power of the President to conduct peace talks and ensure the wellbeing of the country.

“We believe that the current legal framework empowers the President to enter into and implement the peace agreement, including decommissioning. Thus there is no need for a new law,” Pendatun said.

Pendatun added the Constitution provides a guideline for the content of an organic act such as the proposed BBL. “The Constitution itself provides the guidelines for it. We have two sections: Article X, Section 18 and Article X, Section 20,” she pointed out.

“According to the Constitution, an organic act should contain the basic structure of government, executive and legislative, the creation of special courts, provisions on the conduct of a plebiscite and the legislative powers of the proposed entity. And all of these matters are already included in the proposed BBL,” Pendatun said.

by Gabriel

Cardinoza Inquirer.net

A

GERONA, Tarlac—In his visit to this town on Thursday, Aug. 6, Vice President Jejomar Binay confirmed that Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago was among those being considered by a search committee as his running mate in the 2016 elections.

Binay did not give other details.

He was also mum on the composition of his Senate slate but he

was accompanied here on Thursday by lawyer Harry Roque Jr. and Princess Jacel Kiram, who are among those reported being considered in the opposition’s senatorial slate.

With the support of former Tarlac Rep. Jose Cojuangco Jr., President Benigno Aquino III’s uncle, and the warm welcome he received from the people, Binay said he was optimistic that he would win in the province.

Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago

PAGE A2 worldwide after a botched rescue attempt that resulted in the death of the hostage-taker, disgruntled former police officer Rolando Mendoza, and eight Chinese tourists.

Binay said that while a comprehensive rehabilitation and recovery plan worth P170 billion was outlined, the money and donations given by other countries appear to have also been swept away by the typhoon.

In Zamboanga, more than 200 were killed and thousands were left homeless but the “greater tragedy” awaited in the evacuation centers where women and children were raped and forced into prostitution.

The Vice President then slammed Aquino’s failure to recognize 44 police commandos who died during the Mamasapano

clash in January this year.

Binay said three things symbolize the administration’s incompetence: Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT 3), Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP).

He slammed the “bad service and poor maintenance” of MRT 3, which is under the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), the secretary of which is said to be running for senator in the 2016 elections.

Turning his attention to BBL, the Vice President blasted the administration’s view that those who oppose the BBL are automatically against peace.

But Binay said there are conditions to a successful and lasting peace agreement: one, the agreement must be in accordance with the Constitution; two, different groups, sectors and recognized

representatives must be involved; and three, Malacañang should not pressure Congress to pass the BBL into law.

The Vice President said the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) and the DAP, both declared illegal and unconstitutional by the Supreme Court, have been revived under different names including insertions, special purpose funds and Unified Accounts Code Structure or UACs. While Aquino enumerated his accomplishments, Binay also noted that Aquino apparently forgot to mention a number of these achievements were started or were planned by previous administrations as early as President Fidel Ramos’ time and were merely continued or completed by the Aquino administration as required by government rules., Aug. 3.

Binay hits ‘inept’...

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OPINION

FEATURES

Counterattack

IN his version of the State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, Aug. 5, Vice President Jejomar Binay told a crowd of about 1,000 at the Cavite State University gymnasium in Indang, Cavite that the current administration is “palpak at manhid” (inept and callous).

According to Binay, this manifested in four locations: Luneta, Tacloban, Zamboanga, and Mamasapano, Maguindanao—where many lives were lost. These four events the Vice President was referring to were the Luneta hostage crisis where eight Hong Kong nationals were killed (Aug. 23, 2010), the Zamboanga siege where hundreds died and thousands displaced (Sept. 2013); the devastation caused by super typhoon Haiyan in various provinces in Visayas (Nov. 7, 2013); and the bloody clash between Philippine police and Moro forces in Mamasapano, Maguindanao that left 44 elite policemen and 19 Muslim rebels dead (Jan. 25, 2015).

Binay also mentioned issues such as the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) as proof that Pres. Benigno Aquino III’s administration failed its people.

He also discredited the administration’s ‘daang matuwid’ (straight path) policy, saying that corruption remains rampant in the government. And even after five years of Aquino’s reforms and leadership, Binay said that the majority of the Filipino people remain poor, hungry and unemployed.

While the audience appreciated his candor, it doesn’t change the fact that Binay has been holding the second most powerful seat in the country for five years and has apparently made little impact

to address and fix the country’s deficiencies (he mentioned) either.

Presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda called Binay’s counterSONA as “clearly politics at its ebb” and said that “it is bewildering how the camp of Binay would go to great lengths to fool the people.”

“First, it took them a week to fabricate a speech which could have otherwise been delivered a day after the Sona. It was all a rehash of what could easily be found in the broadsheets. Second, did he have to go to Cavite State University where it is several miles away from Coconut Palace to read a bereft speech when he could have shown up at the Senate where it is a hop, skip and a jump from his official residence to answer all allegations of corruption?,” Lacierda pointed out.

Lacierda said that the Vice President kept mum “where he could have been part of the solution” and even praised Aquino “in many instances” during his five-year stint in the Cabinet. Binay resigned in June as the chief of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) and as the Presidential Adviser on OFW Affairs.

The true state of the nation is apparently subjective. The current social, economic and political situation of the country varies, depending on who you ask. The multitude of ills in the country have yet to be accounted for. It might take more that

Editorial

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one presidential term to solve them all.

It is impossible to measure a politician’s performance. There are so many factors to identify how formidable a politician can be, and it is unjust to base the relationship of a leader and his followers on approval ratings alone. What matters more is the successful negotiations and compromises both parties extend to each other.

The Filipinos and the rest of spectators in all these political travails are given a sort-of-Rorschach inkblot test. They should think objectively and look at the facts instead of having prejudices

and biases, and personal hatred cloud judgments.

Because in the upcoming elections next year, Filipinos hold the power to lead the Philippines’ steep road to political redemption. It will be up to the voters to delineate expertise, gravitas and decency over popularity and political grandstanding.

As for the aspirants and current leaders, the renewed interest political affairs by Filipinos should inspire and challenge them to do more for the people instead of working double time on increasing popularity and gaining plaudits. (AJPress)

If the presidential elections were held today: Fil-Ams choose between Mar and Binay AFTER President Noynoy Aquino finally anointed The Fil-Am DILG Sec. Mar Roxas to be his successor and the Lib- Perspective eral Party’s standard bearer in the 2016 Philippine Presidential Election—which Mar has accepted in a gathering among friends and support- GEL SANTOS-RELOS ers at the historic Club Filipino—it is GAME ON in Philippine politics!

Even Vice President Binay is happy he now has a real nemesis in the race to Malacañang, being the first to declare his intent to run for President in 2016.

While kababayans are still eagerly awaiting the decision of Sen. Grace Poe—the frontrunner in the polls—as to whether she will seek higher office by running for President or Vice President, other names have been much talked about as better options: Davao’s Rudy Duterte, Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago, Sen. Bongbong Marcos, Sen. Ping Lacson, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, Sen. Francis Escudero, and Manila Mayor (and deposed) former Pres. Erap Estrada.

Prior to PNoy’s endorsement of Roxas on July 31, 2015, the Second Quarter 2015 Social

Weather Survey revealed that Poe, Binay and Roxas top the people’s “three best leaders to succeed PNoy in 2016.”

According to the SWS report, when respondents were asked the question “Who do you think are the good leaders who should succeed Pres. Aquino as President? [You may give up to three names],” 42 percent named Sen. Poe, 34 percent named Vice Pres. Binay, and 21 percent named Sec. Roxas.

With the 55 percent rating of the Aquino Administration in the “Second Quarter 2015 Social Weather Survey: Net satisfaction with National Administration,” could Aquino’s endorsement give Mar Roxas the much needed momentum in his bid for the Presidency?

If the online poll on the Filipino Channel’s daily newscast Balitang America is to be the indicator, Filipinos in America overwhelmingly favor Roxas.

Immediately after PNoy’s endorsement and Mar’s acceptance on July 31, Balitang America asked its viewers and web visitors: “If the Philippine Presidential Elections were

held today, who would you vote for? Roxas, Binay, or neither?

A big majority of those who voted—85 percent voted for Roxas, 8 percent said neither, while 7 percent voted for Binay.

This result runs parallel to Aquino’s high favorability and satisfaction among Fil-Ams in the “Balitang America” poll after Pres. Aquino delivered his sixth and last SONA. Balitang America asked its viewers and web visitors: “Do you think Pres. Aquino successfully adressed the Philippines’ pressing problems during his term?” 64 percent of those who voted answered YES. The Balitang America “ISYU NGAYON” poll is just the first among many polls leading up to May 2016. As new names of candidates are added, political dynamics change, and new developments steal the headlines, this unofficial barometer of the Fil-Am’s political mood and opinion will be interesting to follow! *** >\c JXekfj I\cfj `j k_\ XeZ_fi f] K=:Ëj È9Xc`kXe^ 8d\i`ZX%É M`\nj Xe[ fg`e`fej \ogi\jj\[ Yp k_\ Xlk_fi `e k_`j Zfclde Xi\ Xi\ jfc\cp k_fj\ f] k_\ Xlk_fi Xe[ efk f] 8j`Xe AflieXc Xe[ 89J$:9E$K=:% =fi Zfdd\ekj# ^f kf nnn%K_\=`c$8dG\ijg\Zk`m\% ;@C> J\Z% DXi IfoXj Xe[ M`Z\ Gi\j% A\afdXi 9`eXp Zfd# _kkgj1&&nnn%]XZ\Yffb%Zfd&>\c%JXekfj%I\cfj

Wanted: Scapegoats and whipping boys

Street Talk GREG B. MACABENTA URBAN legend has it that President Manuel Quezon, while entertaining a foreign dignitary in Malacañang, inadvertently let out gas. Without missing a beat, Quezon turned to his aide-de-camp and up braided the poor man for uncivilized behavior.

When the guest had left, the aide complained that he had been unjustly blamed for something he did not do.

“I know you didn’t do it,” Quezon reportedly replied. “But would you have preferred that the president of the Philippines was embarrassed before a foreign guest?”

The concept of scapegoating goes back to antiquity, while whipping boys were SOP among royalty in Europe. In ancient Syria, ancient Greece and in Old Testament times, it was customary to cleanse a community of its sins by imputing the violations to a goat and setting the poor animal loose in the desert, in effect, carrying off the community’s transgressions. Thus was coined the term scapegoat.

On the other hand, among royalty, it was unthinkable to punish a young prince for his juvenile misbehavior. But discipline had to be imposed for good order’s

sake. Thus a whipping boy came in handy – a ward who would bear the brunt of the punishment that the prince deserved.

There is a difference between the two terms. “Whipping boy” suggests that the transgression is still attributed to a principal, although someone else absorbs the punishment. On the other hand, the term “scapegoat” means passing on the blame and washing one’s hands of any accountability.

At any rate, either of the two concepts may have inspired recent controversial decisions of Ombudsman Conchita CarpioMorales. Inexplicably, she absolved Noynoy Aquino for the Mamasapano tragedy, and excluded DOTC Secretary Joseph Abaya – and his predecessor, Mar Roxas – from the indictment slapped on former Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT3) general manager, Al Vitangcol III, and five others for alleged irregularities in the transit system’s maintenance contract.

Disgraced, dismissed and subsequently indicted former PNP Director General Alan Purisima may be more aptly characterized as a whipping boy. Carpio-Morales may have decided that the president of the Philippines was pretty much like European royalty – too high in rank to be subjected to the indignity of punishment.

It doesn’t take rocket science to conclude that Purisima, being

under suspension and rendered inactive, could not have stagemanaged the Mamasapano raid by the PNP Special Action Force (SAF) without the direct orders of Aquino. Neither could SAF commander, PNP Director Getulio Nape ñas, have so unquestioningly followed Purisima’s orders if he had not been convinced that the latter was acting under authority of the president.

When Napeñas told the media, “I take full responsibility!” he was performing the classic role of the whipping boy – and, to some extent, there was a touch of nobility and self-sacrifice in that. In a literal sense, Napeñas was willing to “take the rap” for his superiors, to use a Mafiosi term.

But there was not an iota of nobility in what Aquino did when he told media that “he felt betrayed”

by Purisima and Napeñas by “disobeying” his orders.

Here’s what one Manila daily reported: “’If ever I [was at] fault here, it was [because I trusted] these people. Why did I fail to detect that they were misleading me?’ the President said on Saturday night.

“He was referring to Purisima, then the suspended PNP chief, and the sacked Special Action Force (SAF) commander, Director Getulio Napeñas, who both briefed him on Jan. 9 about the police operation to get Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir, alias

‘Marwan.’”

That was pure, unadulterated scapegoating.

Vitangcol and the five other indictees have obviously been made whipping boys for their superiors but worse yet, they have also been made scapegoats, because Abaya, and by extension, Roxas, have been “cleansed” of any accountability.

According to protestors from several sides of the political fence, Abaya, as signatory of the anomalous maintenance contract, should have been included in the indictment. Senators Nancy Binay and Grace Poe both questioned the exclusion of Abaya, even while Poe, known to be an ally of the administration, tried to soft-pedal it: “While we respect the findings and recommendations of the Ombudsman in the indictment of Mr. Vitangcol and his cohorts, I would like to read the text of the resolution in full to find out the reasons why DOTC Sec. Joseph Emilio Abaya was not included despite having allegedly signed the contract, presumably with full knowledge of the facts and the applicable law surrounding such anomalous procurement of services.”

Bayan Secretary General Renato Reyes, Jr. demanded to know why Abaya and the members of the DOTC Bids and Awards Committee were excluded:

“Now lo and behold, only one government official has been charged. Only former MRT GM Al Vitangcol is being made accountable as a member of the BAC and as end-user of the contract. Either Vitangcol is a genius scammer able to pull off the multimillion dollar deal without the knowledge of the entire DOTC, or DOTC officials are just hopelessly incompetent,” Reyes complained to media.

Getting in a word edgewise, JV Bautista, secretary general of the opposition, United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), asked why Abaya’s predecessor, Mar Roxas, had not been included in the indictment, in spite of the fact that the questionable contract had been drawn up during Roxas’ incumbency as DOTC secretary, and Abaya had only been two days on the job when he signed and approved it.

Concluded Bautista, “ The Ombudsman has technically disassociated Roxas and Abaya from the bribery, extortion, fraud and corruption connected to the MRT deals.”

That makes, not simply whipping boys, but scapegoats of Vitangcol and the five other indictees, Wilson De Vera, Marlo Dela Cruz, Manolo Maralit, Federico Remo and Arturo Soriano, uncle-in-law of Vitangcol.

This brings us to a declaration made by Mr. Aquino in a speech back in 2013, in the course of an-

nouncing the LRT-1 Cavite Extension. He cheerfully announced that, when completed in 2015, the extension would result in faster train service. It would also transport some 250,000 commuters daily into Metro Manila.

And to spice his impressive announcement, Aquino also vowed in his usual down-home verbiage: “At kapag hindi po nangyari ito, nandiyan naman si Secretary Abaya, na mangangasiwa nito… dalawa na kami na siguro ay magpapasagasa sa tren.” (And if that doesn’t happen, there is Secretary Abaya, who is overseeing this…the two of us will probably have ourselves run over by a train) Furious over the frequent breakdowns of the light rail system, some vengeful netizens recently dug up the video of Aquino’s speech and posted it on social media. That video has since gone viral.

However, if anyone is waiting—and hoping—for Aquino and Abaya to dutifully lay down their bodies on the rails to make good on their vow, you may have to hold your breath for a little while longer.

You see, according to Malacañang and DOTC insiders, Aquino and Abaya are still looking for willing whipping boys and scapegoats to take their place. (gregmacabenta@hotmail.com)

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Dateline Philippines

OC/IE ASIAN JOURNAL • august 7-13, 2015

A second opinion on the state of our nation Senator Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ R. Marcos Jr. (Speech given on Wednesday July 29 at the Asia CEO Talks forum, Marriot Hotel.)

In the letter of your chairman, Mr. Richard Mills, I was told that I am given the liberty to speak about whatever topic I feel would be compelling.

Well, I thought about that for a while and I think that at this particular point in time nothing proves to be more compelling than indulging in a reflection about the current state of our country. We heard the other day the President’s own version of the state of our nation in his 6th and final State of the Nation Address, where he brandished to Congress and the people the gains of his “Daang Matuwid” blue print for administration.

Now then comes a rather expedient time for post hoc public reactions, annotations, comments, from the entire captive audience, Filipino or otherwise, from experts to armchair analysts, from cheerleaders and wellwishers down to plain trigger-happy bashers.

But rather than engage in a critical discourse and give you a negativetoned counter, or Contra-SONA, allow me to present rather some sort of draft SONA, or administration blueprint, of a make-believe or hypothetical President made at a maiden SONA or at a miting de avance. One that presents another diagnosis of our country, a second opinion if you will, and wherein would contain the plans and programs required to remedy and respond to the state of problems in which we found ourselves and the country as that President leads and assumes the highest and most powerful office of the land.

And please let me emphasize the words hypothetical, not hopeful, expectant, but less wishful thinking, lest I be quoted out of context and suddenly be reported, as it has been reported before we come here, to have announced a surprise early presidential bid. But if in case it happens, you will be able to see it nowhere else but here in the Asia CEO Forum, and you’ll be able to say, you heard it here first.

A nation that has become great again My vision of our country is one that can overcome its economic and social challenges by drawing on our own strengths and drawing on our unity. It is a vision of the Philippines that is prosperous, rich in opportunity, and home to happy, morally upright, and productive citizens whose lives are meaningful because theirs is a just society, because theirs is a nation that has become great again.

Business should take the lead in nation-building and poverty reduction I will immediately work to restore in all Filipinos the lost sense of pride in themselves and pride in being citizens of the Republic of the Philippines. We had at some point in our history that pride, that sense of nationhood but we see it to have gone astray and we have lost it.

This administration should govern our country with special attention to the needs of the more than 26% of our population who are the poorest, and the almost 70% who are called “unpoor” but actually mean that they live only precariously above the poverty line.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is where you come in.

I would like to focus on two things that I believe we need to finally banish these discouraging statistics, unavoidable facts which persist despite our best efforts to change them.

First, I believe business should take the lead in nation-building, in poverty reduction, in developing our shared future. You have demonstrated in your work your ability to do so with your wealth, your skills, and your imagination in raising our economy to a level that has attracted positive elements. But it has happened under a system that has distributed the benefits inequitably.

The success of our nation depends on national unity, but it is hard for me to imagine how unity can be even be possible when nearly 97% percent of our people do not feel they are sharing in our so-called “economic miracle.”

And share in it they must. Not simply because for those of us of privilege and wealth, caring for the needs of our communities and our nation is the correct, upright thing to do, but also because it is in our best interests.

It is alarming to note that, despite our economic gains of recent years, at least 3,700 Filipinos leave for jobs abroad every single day. Nearly one in 10 of us are already abroad, meeting our families’ basic needs with the earnings from foreign jobs. It is distressing to see the most desperate of our people even consigned to the streets, or falling prey to sexual or other forms of exploitation simply because of a lack of opportunities.

These people are our workforce, and our market. They are our greatest resource, a resource that only grows in strength and does not diminish if it is used for the benefit of all.

Asking business to lead us in nation-building is a tall request, and one that government cannot rightly ask if it is not willing to equally share the burden, or take the lead. Which brings me to the second, but no less important point: How can government help business do business?

It is perhaps understandable if many doubt whether government actually has the ability to do that, because recent problems have revealed shortcomings in our efforts to eliminate corruption and improve performance. The P62.3-billion Conditional Cash Transfer Program, directed at

the poorest of our poor Filipino families, has not helped all that it could because of leakages, because of weaknesses in the implementation, and because of lack of clarity in principle and in concept as to what the program was meant to achieve.

The modest efforts towards upgrading our armed forces have been hampered by anomalous deals and irregular transactions with suppliers of questionable competence. Every day, hundreds of thousands of commuters – our workers, our students, our shoppers – face the challenges of using an aging, inadequate commuter rail service that has become unreliable under the best of circumstances, and actually dangerous to life and limb at its worst.

Sound fiscal management has provided the Philippines with billions in accumulated savings, yet deploying those carefully-collected resources into infrastructure, improving the nation’s defense and law enforcement capabilities, and other basic development has proved more difficult than it should rightly be. And as a result, opportunities to create jobs, to create new areas for business growth, and to expand consumer and investment markets have been lost.

Government as well as business must change. The “trickle-down” concept of economics, pursuit of profit for profit’s sake with the expectation that the benefits will eventually find their way to the lower levels of our society, is a failure. It is something I sensed a long time ago, while still a student at university. In a study that we made on the Marshall Plan, which had as its central principle, a trickle down theory: throw money at the problem, if you had enough money it would trickle down to the poorest and you would have taken care of it. While there, I wrote a paper proposing that it is good economic policy, and ultimately profitable strategy for business, to balance those profits with a concern for the common good.

In recent years, many other have woken to the same realization, from political leaders, to learned and respected economists, and most recently even Pope Francis, who has offered strong words. In 2013, in his apostolic exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium,” he argued that “trickle down” economics wrongly demand “a crude and naïve trust in the goodness of those wielding economic power.” And as recently as this past July 10, while visiting Bolivia, he condemned the unbridled greed of naked capitalism: “Once capital becomes an idol and guides people’s decisions, once greed for money presides over the entire socio-economic system, it ruins society, it condemns and enslaves men and women, it destroys the human fraternity, it sets people against one another and, as we can clearly see, it even puts at risk our common home: the planet Earth.”

Capitalism as we know it, whether we like it or not, is becoming socially unacceptable.

Do not take it as a damnation of the capitalist society or the capitalist principle. But merely to say that government must take and must institute and have a mechanism that actively pursue the principle of distribution of wealth. I think even the most recent rock star of the economics fraternity, a gentleman by the name of Piketty, on his large and rather hard-going book on capital, again seems to have confirmed the same observation that growth in value of capital is never matched, if left to its own devices, by the growth in value of each individual in that economy.

By focusing on poverty, we focus on the fundamental strength of this nation, and our greatest resource, our people. It will require government and business working hand in hand.

But neither business nor the great population of Filipinos can have confidence in a government that does not demonstrate the competence and the ethical commitment to good performance. I was disappointed that in the SONA that we heard a couple of days ago, he neglected to mention the Freedom of Information Bill, a freedom of information bill that he actually can take note.

I believe in the FOI, because I believe it is a tool to build trust—something that we have to rebuild in our country as we have been set in a political system and even in a social system where we must take sides against each other. The FOI is a tool that encourages government to carry out its mandates honestly, competently, and with due regard to all stakeholders in critical issues and challenges facing the nation. Government cannot, after all, exhort those it serves to practice discipline and follow the law if it does not set the example by respecting the separation of authority and responsibilities of the individual branches of government, or to utilize collaborative tools like the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council, or LEDAC, or pursue long-overdue peace arrangements with enemies of the state with a sincere objective to improve the lives of all who are affected by any such conflict.

Neither the people nor you, as leaders of our vibrant business sector, can have the confidence and trust in the competence and commitment of government as a partner in advancing the nation if doubt is created by perceptions of corruption, of lack of ability, or of favoritism towards special interests.

The FOI will help erase those doubts, but it is only part of the answer.

If the next administration is to succeed, meritocracy must be the guiding principle. The next leader should surround himself or herself with the best of the best in the Cabinet. Our country is blessed with such great human talent and we must engage that great human talent in the service of nation-building. Meritocracy must govern all appointments, not

only in high-level appointments, but throughout the entire bureaucracy.

Meritocracy will guide the organization and leadership of even the Armed Forces and Philippine National Police as well. Our nation’s internal and external security, peace and order in our cities and neighborhoods, is a critical concern for all us, government, business, and private citizens—all the same. Under the next administration, leadership roles in the police and armed forces that will be regarded with the gravity they deserve: As roles with vital responsibilities, responsibilities that can only be met by leaders who have demonstrated integrity, have demonstrated skill, and experience, and who believe, as I do, that inasmuch as promotion to a position of greater authority is an endorsement of one’s abilities and good service, it is also a call to duty and not a reward to be passed frequently from one officer to another.

These critical top leadership positions in our Armed Forces of the Philippines and the PNP will no longer be subject to the “revolving door policy”, wherein, again, for political considerations just make up a queue and say you will be the head for six months, next, next, next, immaterial of what your performance has been or if you have shown any special qualities that put you above the rank and file, that put you above all the other officers who also are vying for the same position.

Our military and police leaders have great responsibilities, and must earn the trust and confidence of their men and women in uniform if they are to lead effectively. And that they cannot do if they cannot be assured of stability and continuity in command. Frequent changes in leadership undermine morale, and make instilling discipline from the top, where it should start, difficult if not impossible. The next administration, leaders of the uniformed services will be chosen according to demonstrated skill and experience, and will be retained for as long as they can serve, and continue to make a positive difference.

But in order for our leaders in uniform to fulfill the duties we demand of them, they must have our support, and be given the tools they need to carry out their tasks. Just as government should strive to help business do business, under the next administration we will do our utmost to pay tribute to our courageous and hardworking men and women in uniform in deeds, and not only words.

Modernizing the AFP is an objective that should be pursued with vigor, but with reason. It is unreasonable to pursue modernization without having a clear doctrine addressing national defense and reduction of internal threats. It is unreasonable to pursue modernization while overlooking the basic needs of servicemen and their families for fair pay, and meaningful benefits delivered efficiently and with a minimum of procedures. It is unreasonable to pursue modernization by seeking bargains on other nations’ obsolete, second-hand equipment and materiel. It is unreasonable to pursue modernization using a complicated, time-consuming procurement process that is at risk of corruption and abuse.

Modernization of the armed forces under any successful administration will build trust and confidence in government and the armed forces alike, because it will be exactly that – modernization. We should seek to equip the armed forces with only the best tools and systems – not others’ hand-me-downs – and to eliminate middlemen and lengthy processes that can be corrupted, we will, we should, wherever possible, pursue the needed upgrades through government-to-government deals.

Where that is not possible, and with the FOI as the peoples’ assurance that transactions are carried out with integrity, we will seek only the best suppliers with proven track records through transparent, consistent bidding processes.

I would like also now to take a few moments to touch upon and focus on the topic of “peace and order.” As I’m sure you are all aware, the threat of crime and a general lack of discipline is harmful to our economy, diverts resources away from productive endeavors, and reduces our quality of life.

A successful administration will have meritocracy that will be applied to our law enforcement and judicial sectors with no less vigor than the rest of the government. Because again, it is as much a matter of trust as it is “getting the job done.” Proper equipment and training, and the fair, firm, and consistent maintenance of discipline will encourage greater respect for the law, as will improving the efficiency and consistency of the judicial system.

By focusing on meritocracy, efficiency, and integrity in government, in national defense, and in law enforcement, this government will lay the firm foundation needed to “democratize capitalism” and to encourage the sharing of the fruits of our collective effort with all Filipinos. It is the firm foundation that we need to be able to ask you, the business leaders of our country, to take the lead in nation-building for all Filipinos.

It is the firm foundation we need to be able to help you in that role, and to create a business environment of more opportunities for investors, an environment in which innovation, competition, and customer choice, value-added, drives our growth, and an environment in which businesses and consumers alike can be confident in fair, consistent, and uncompromised regulation.

So that we can have peace and order reign in our land, we must find ways to end internal conflicts and long-standing rebellions. The next resident must initiate peace nego-

tiations with all who wish to stand against us – the MILF and other Muslim groups, and the New People’s Army and its Communist compatriots. And we will achieve this peace by building self-respect and mutual respect, addressing the root causes of conflict while protecting the rights and opportunities of all Filipinos.

Power and water supply, traffic and transport issues, other challenges Let us shift now our focus to some of the specific challenges our nation faces.

The Philippines has the dubious distinction of having the most expensive electricity among all the ASEAN nations, the second-highest in all of Asia, next to Japan. Part of this cost can of course be attributed to our heavy reliance on imported fuels, and out-dated, inefficient power generation systems.

Another significant contributor to our very high electrical costs, however, is the unjustifiable perception shared by government and the power sector that all risks and losses can be passed on to the end consumer.

Electricity, of course, is not free, nor should it be. It requires resources and effort to produce and to deliver to consumers, and it is altogether appropriate that those consumers pay a price for it that reflects the true costs of production and distribution, and yes, a fair profit for producers and distributors as a worthwhile reward for their efforts.

What is not appropriate is to pass on to consumers costs not directly connected to the production and delivery of the commodity they are purchasing. Costs such as corporate income taxes. Costs such as capital expenditures for the development and roll-out of a prepaid electricity program that already provides electricity distributors with the bonus of guaranteed, up-front income, and further traps poor consumers in a subsistence-level existence. Costs such as “system losses” due to inefficiency, poor maintenance, or outright thievery. Cost such as the electricity used to power the electric generator’s or distributor’s own facilities.

Costs such as more than P5 billion in excessive generation charges levied against electric customers more than a year ago, but thankfully declared invalid and ordered returned.

Again, addressing these matters cannot be done with a single-dimensional approach. Any successful administration can and will work to develop more sensible rules, and create a regulatory framework that not only encourages and facilitates inputs from all affected stakeholders, but relies on them in a way that reflects the democratic nature of our society.

By the same token, we recognize that we must also strive to provide greater opportunity for growth and innovation, by providing a consistent, ruleof-law based business environment, and by giving our strong support to development of alternative sources of electricity, using resources the Philippines is blessed with, such as geothermal, solar, wind, and biomass and any other emerging technology that we may take advantage of.

Solving our chronic power supply problems not only opens new opportunities in the power sector, it will be a big step towards the creation of the elusive inclusive economy, and greatly enhance the Philippines’ productivity at all levels.

Other countries have taken a shortcut to lowering power rates by subsidizing electrical costs. I think that is something that we have to look at very closely and possibly is a mistaken approach to the problem, and cannot lead to the same productivity and cost reduction that equitable but strict regulation and an attractive level playing field can provide. There must be no subsidies under the next administration – but there will be close monitoring and engagement with the industry.

Although studies vary in their perceptions of the scope and degree of the problem, it is a growing shared concern among scientists and policymakers that the entire world is moving quickly towards a water crisis. Over the past couple of months, we have seen a glimpse of what’s to come in California, where vast stretches of the state are unable to obtain fresh water in any form at any cost.

Studies in the Philippines confirm we are not immune to this risk: “Peak water,” the point at which our consumption exceeds our resources to replenish supplies, is estimated sometime between 2030 and 2050.

Already we feel the effects of an El Niño-triggered drought in some parts of the country, while other places such as Mindanao regularly experience shortages during long dry spells.

Under the next administration, we must not wait like California for the crisis to be upon us before acting to secure our future water needs. We must take steps to encourage more investment in water supply systems, and I believe an area that has great promise in desalinization, a tried and tested technology already being regularly used in different parts of the world.

Desalinization technology is not of course without its challenges; the systems themselves are costly, and consume a great deal of energy. But I believe we must find ways to attract investment in that area, and that by doing so, help the technology to improve, to become more efficient, and to lower costs. Even if it is costly at first, the alternative—no water at any price—is simply unacceptable.

Thanks to the duopoly we have allowed to capture this vital part of our national infrastructure,—telecommunications—we are forced to tolerate service that is consistently rated as some of the worst in the world, and some of the highest-priced. A reliable, competitively-priced telecommunications system whose performance is

on par with our partners and competitors throughout the region is not just a matter of convenience; it is a matter of national security.

I feel it is more productive to approach problems from as positive a perspective as possible. But that is very difficult when it comes to the problem of telecommunications infrastructure, because consumer anger is so widespread. Frustration with poor telecommunications services cuts across all segments of society– I’m sure there’s at least one or two, or quite probably more, of us in this room who have recently, maybe even today, been annoyed and inconvenienced by a poor signal, or a lack of coverage, a dropped call, missed messaging. It is 2015, ladies and gentlemen, the technology exists.

Why do we suffer under these conditions?

For reasons that I have never been able to fathom, prepaid load on cellular phones has an expiration date.

This only happens in the Philippines.

You go to Malaysia, no such thing occur. You go to Thailand, no such thing occur. You go anywhere else where there is a cellular phone system, no such thing occur. Is it perhaps because most load is used for text messages, which cost virtually nothing for the telcos to transmit?

A good president must ensure telecommunications services are improved, and provide value to their users. We should work with the patriotic Agham Group of Scientists for the People, whose assessment is that the provision of text messaging services should and can be provided for free, at very little if any real cost to the companies. We must also direct that a critical review of industry pricing structures and practices be carried out, and abusive or otherwise unjustifiable practices corrected. I will also explore ways in which greater competition in the industry can be encouraged, perhaps through a law similar to the recently-enacted law permitting the entry of foreign banks, or changes to the so-called ‘economic provisions’ of the Constitution.

We are all, no doubt, very familiar with the ongoing woes of Metro Manila’s light rail transit system—serious safety and reliability issues, poor maintenance, overcrowding, allegations of corruption—and I know that you are all familiar with these so I will not belabor the point.

In fact, we should acknowledge that some small progress is being made. I think more progress is made if one does not wait five years to begin the work, so the next administration must hit the ground running. We all know how safe and comfortable nearby rail systems such as in Singapore or Hong Kong are compared to our own. The only thing stopping us from having the same system in our country, in our cities, is ourselves.

Traffic congestion goes hand-inhand with overworked public transit systems, and both present the same problem to all of us: They have a serious negative impact on our productivity and on the bottom line. I saw recently a calculation, an estimate, as to what are the actual peso costs to the very bad traffic situation in Manila and the calculation was at P2.4 billion a day. I think that all of us here who have sat in our cars, frustrated at the lack of progress going from one place to another, will find that that estimate is just about right.

Fixing the trains will take some engineering effort, but traffic congestion can at least be partly solved by enforcing discipline on our roads.

Discipline comes from the top, which is why the meritocracy-based, nonpolitical standards I mentioned earlier for choosing leaders in the police and military is so important: Corrupt and erring lower-level officers cannot be corrected by superiors who are not above reproach. The next administration must ensure that discipline is the rule throughout every rank of law enforcement. When the law enforcers become the law-breakers there is a serious problem in the system.

Of course, government must contribute to the effort, and to that end the next administration should focus on expanding the transportation infrastructure, as well as providing better training and proper equipment to law enforcement and for the orderly conduct of our transport system.

We cannot speak about the problems that plague the country without talking about port congestion. I am pleased that the amendments to the Cabotage Law have finally been enacted, and I urge the government and Philippine businesses to take full advantage of it. Yes, it does increase competitive pressure, but I believe it opens up new opportunities as well.

We have also recently learned that Manila’s port area is vulnerable to strong earthquakes. It makes sense then to encourage traffic to spread to other ports, which is what the next administration must do – for example, Subic and Port Irene for goods bound to or from Central and Northern Luzon, and Batangas for deliveries in Southern Luzon.

Infrastructure building must be a central part of the government’s efforts to improve the economy. One of the challenges we must overcome if we are to build a greater nation is to find ways to meet our enormous need for infrastructure of all kinds.

We have now a limited number of large companies – highly-qualified and successful companies, to be sure – who build our large-scale infrastructure projects, and while they do good work, it is clear more participation is needed. The next administration must find ways to attract new investors and partners to help build the infrastructure we need. The government has belatedly recognized the lack of infrastructure development and public investment. We had over the past few years been spending at the rate of 2.5 percent of our GDP on infrastructure development. And because it had been clearly shown that we cannot

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make the economy expand and grow and create jobs if we do not improve our infrastructure development plan, then there was a policy decision that we would increase the government expenditure in infrastructure development to 5 percent of GDP. However, government also—following the recommendations of the World Bank study where it said 50 percent of the personnel of the Department of Public Works needed to be removed—so with an increase of double of our expenditure but with halving of the capacity of the Department of Public Works, then clearly it cannot work.

And this kind of system where we have the government, where the right hand does not know what the left hand is doing, again brings us to this kind of situation. As I said this is a belated realization but it is a simple problem that does not have a simple solution. It must start from the very beginnings of the creation of policy and carried on through the implementation of that policy.

We must find ways to attract new investments and partners to help build the infrastructure that we need.

And that is why I think we have come upon a very important juncture when we speak about infrastructure development: we are at the moment in my committee in Public Works, we are presently finishing the amendments to the PPP Law. There is great promise if we can actually get the system to implement large national projects on PPP bases, where we can transfer the costs of capital to the private sector and even the financial risks to the private sector, whilst giving the private sector to gain profit.

And now, I’ve saved the best part for last, let us talk about tax policy.

Undoubtedly, you businessmen, that is your favorite subject.

My administration—should it happen— will push for the adoption of the gross income tax policy for businesses. Just as excessive human intervention poses a risk to government procurements, collecting tax revenue has become similarly compromised.

Under that administration, corporations will pay reasonable, fixed taxes computed on their gross income, with companies fairly categorized according to their type and size.

Practices such as negotiating a bribe to receive a reduced tax assessment will immediately become a thing of the past under such as system.

Managing an equitable and efficient tax system – or anything else I’ve touched on today – will not be possible without a meritocracy-based, professional civil service and judiciary. A strong and independent judiciary is a vital necessity, a partner in all our efforts to provide greater opportunities for our people, to maintain our peace and security, encourage discipline, and maintain a productive level playing field for every business and every entrepreneur.

But it is a partner that many would say is missing, and has been for many years now. The next president, if it is I, will welcome that partner back to our nation, by applying the principles of meritocracy to the judiciary. It is a judiciary that is free from the whiff of corruption and totally above reproach, because its people are employed and rewarded in ways that recognize their competence and good performance, and provided with respectable livelihoods for the important work they do on behalf of our nation.

In my remarks today, I have tried to remind us all of our duty to our fellow-man, the vast population of the Philippines who do not share in the benefits we are able to create, yet makes those benefits possible and could increase them almost beyond measure just if they are given a fair opportunity. I have touched on the gap in trust created between a government that performs poorly and inefficiently and the people it is meant to serve.

I have highlighted areas – areas familiar to every one of us on a personal level, such as utility services, telecommunications, transportation, power-generation – in which our policies have hampered our growth and development. And I have, at least in brief terms, suggested ways in which the rule of law can be better enforced and in which taxes can be assessed more equitably and ethically, and more consistently.

The strength of the nation is in its unity, but unity cannot be achieved if the leader of the nation serves both the nation and his party. We must leave politics in its proper place.

I take the same view as President Manuel L. Quezon when he said: “My loyalty to my party ends where my loyalty to my country begins.”

This is something that all our leaders should be well reminded of. Therefore, the next president must resign from his party and be a unifying president – after all, we do not elect a “President of the Liberal Party,” or a “President of the Nacionalista Party,” but a President of the Republic of the Philippines, whose duty is no less to the citizen who did not vote for him than it is to his most ardent supporter. And in a non-partisan role, one should work with all political parties to strengthen the party system, an area of our democracy that is weak and ineffectual.

Once again the concept of meritocracy: I believe that in a meritocracy, the rule of law becomes second nature. In a meritocracy, we can focus on the real answer to that question: What would I do if I were president?

Strong nations need strong foundations, and a successful presidency must emphasize service to the vast majority of our people – not in handouts, but in opportunities to easily join the meritocracy where we can build together.

Thank you very much and good afternoon. God bless us all. Mabuhay ang Republika ng Pilipinas. Mabuhay ang Asian CEO Forum. (ManilaTImes.net)

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august 7-13, 2015

Yey Coronel: Finding her way back to the Fil-Am community through FASGI

By Christina

Until this past spring, Yey Coronel never really applied or interviewed for a job.

At a young age, she began working after school at her mother’s real estate firm (something she was “born into”), learning the operations from the ground up. By 12 years old, she was doing payroll.

This unique upbringing was the beginning of a life’s worth of trainings and experiences which made her the kind of leader she is now today.

While an undergraduate at the University of Southern California, a professor recommended her for a political internship.

“I absolutely had no interest in politics but that was where I was led. By that time in college, I was already vice president of finance for the real estate company…

When you’re born into an industry, you’re expected to grow into it,” Coronel said. “Little did I know at that point was that I was going to stay with the City of Los Angeles for about 13 years.”

From the internship, she was hired as a legislative analyst for the city, where she prepared policy reports for various areas, such as housing, economic development, transportation and domestic

2

M. Oriel / AJPress

violence. “[Working for the city] was more than just a job or even a career. It really was God’s instruction that I had to make sure that I followed. There were times people asked me why I work so hard…and I said, ‘Let me put it this way, if I don’t work this hard, set an example, cut through the red tape and make bureaucracy move, I’m worried people would die,’” she quipped. But in seriousness, she was instrumental in providing the reports and grants that ensured the city’s residents were safe and had the necessary services to live.

Her work got her noticed for a position at Mayor Richard Riordan’s office as assistant deputy mayor focusing on community development and social programs, assistant chief grants administrator for the Community Development Department, and then, director of community development during Mayor James Hahn’s term years later.

Along the way, for someone so soft spoken, she accumulated some nicknames — one of them being ‘pitbull’ because “when I latched onto something, I would never let go to the point that the [city council] would give in,” she shared — and learned how to cut

through the red tape and actually get things done, despite City Hall’s long-standing reputation of inefficiency.

She added, “I would ask the hard-hitting, ethical questions.

I made them think about why some programs were funded over others or why certain programs were chosen.”

In one example, the City Attorney’s office would operate with a more ‘conservative’ mindset, which would stall the implementation of some programs, but Coronel was able to interpret them without creating liabilities and essentially found ways around the rigid codes.

“Everyone can make a difference and it really is true. It wasn’t easy. I had to manipulate the system, but what do I mean when I say manipulate?” Coronel said. “Politics deals a lot with playing games, which I hate, but it turned out I was good at it and I could make people get things done…I was never above using what was at my disposal.”

While working for the city for over a decade, Coronel served as a liaison for the local government and the Filipino-American community, and served as the president of the Los Angeles

Filipino Association of City Employees (LAFACE). However, she kept a low profile about what exactly she did for a living and that she possessed some influence, which led some members of the community is gloss over her.

“My position became a position of power because I was able to use it to help organizations that came to me, a majority of which were Filipino,” Coronel said, citing an instance when she helped FilAm ARTS secure Pt. Fermin Park in San Pedro for the annual Festival of Philippine Arts & Culture (FPAC).

“After working for the city, I got burned out. I was in policy and grants, and [on top of that] I was requested to be the liaison to the Filipino-American community because of my connections,” Coronel said. “But it was a great learning experience because you got to see all the colors of people and learn how to tell how people are. I learned to see people’s motives from a mile away.”

Shying away after years of public service led Coronel back to the family business in the Philippines, where she managed property rentals and sales.

Eventually, she helped sell most of the business.

Yey Coronel, Executive Director of the Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI)

AJPress photo by Andy Tecson

Finding way back to LA FilAm community In early 2014, Coronel returned to Southern California and began going to community events again.

“I didn’t realize that I was coming back to the community.

It started with accepting an invitation to watch ‘Documented,’ the film by Jose Antonio Vargas, where I met Benel Liban,” she said.

“At one point, I told Benel that I’d been idle in the community and I was ready to come back because I was beginning to get bored. She told me that Susan Dilkes (former executive director) would be retiring so the Filipino American Service Group Incorporated (FASGI) was looking for a new executive director.”

Benel, then connected Coronel with her husband, Cris Liban, who is president and board chair of FASGI, a community-based non-profit that has been providing social services in Los Angeles since 1981. The more Coronel heard about the position of executive director, the more she became interested.

“As I was fixing by CV, I saw that this position had a lot of possibilities. I was still at the cusp and then I was called for an interview. With each issue that the selection committee had mentioned, I found my interest growing and growing. At the end of the interview, I told Cris that I wanted the job. I felt the

challenge,” she said.

In April, Liban called her back, but did not tell her directly she got the job. Coronel, who had never applied or interviewed for a job before, did not know what to expect or interpret what was being said.

“It’s been a challenge and a blessing — a challenge because I have certain standards [which] are usually higher, so to achieve those standards, there is a need to elevate and I stepped into a place where the staff is established. We had to get [accustomed] to each other and I had to make sure that they were working at the capacity that I was used to,” she said of her new role. “I’m a very hands-on executive director…and a lot of people aren’t used to that. But it’s also been a blessing because I see a lot of improvement happening and the community has been supportive and welcoming.”

One of FASGI’s services is a transitional housing program in Historic Filipinotown, where qualified, homeless adults can stay anywhere from a day to two years. The facility on Park View St. receives funding from the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, and has 22 beds — less than half were occupied prior to Coronel stepping into the position, though to date, it is running at full capacity. Residents receive freshly cooked meals Continued on Page 3

OPM artists collaborate for OFWs Lea Salonga, Aga Muhlach reunion movie slated for 2016

by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

MANILA—Five OPM artists collaborate with the Filipinos around the world to write a song for overseas Filipino workers (OFW).

Google Philippines tapped Spongecola, Ebe Dancel, Kjwan, Itchyworms and Mikey Bustos to support their “Balikbayan” campaign.

“This is the first time that we’re partnering with artists to create a song with Filipinos around the world,” said Google Philippines country manager Ryan Morales.

“We want them to feel better even they’re away from their

families, and what better way to do that but through music,” he added.

Yael Yuzon of Spongecola didn’t hesitate when their band was asked to take part in the campaign.

“I’ve made a lot of friends, a lot of OFWs and I’m still friends with them up to this day. I met them during long flights,” he said.

“So I would just like to be part of something that would celebrate the OFWs. I wanted to take part and share their stories.”

Mikey Bustos, meanwhile, said he could relate to the situation of the OFWs since he’s a migrant from Canada.

“I think the cause is worth

working for and of course working with these great talents is a rare opportunity,” he added.

Ryan Morales also noted that aside from the plan of these artists singing together, another possibility is of them giving different renditions to one song.

So how will the Filipinos be part of this project? The lyrics of the songs will come from them.

Google will collate input from Filipinos of what they miss the most about the Philippines and their loved ones.

They can post lyric suggestions through Google+, Twitter, Facebook and Instagram with the hashtag #GoogleMissKoNa.

TWENTY years after their last film together, actor Aga Muhlach and singer-actress Lea Salonga will finally reunite on the silver screen.

According to Star Cinema managing director Malou Santos, as posted in the Star Cinema website, the reunion movie “will happen in 2016.”

Salonga, a columnist for the Philippine Daily Inquirer, said the announcement “took [her] by surprise.”

“We don’t have a script or have signed a contract. However, given how well-received the Sana Maulit Muli restored version is, the timing feels right for us to work

together again. And soon,” she told Inquirer.

Muhlach and Salonga paired up in 1992 for Bakit Labis Kitang Mahal? and in 1995 for Sana Maulit Muli.

Just last month, ABS-CBN screened the digitally restored version of Sana Maulit Muli.

In a 2013 interview with Inquirer, Muhlach said he and Salonga were neighbors and would always talk about making their third film together.

However, he said he needed to be in good shape and for the both of them to look their best.

Salonga is currently a coach for The Voice Kids. (Inquirer.net)

Aga Muhlach and Lea Salonga are set to reignite their on-screen chemistry in 2016.

Philstar.com photo

How does Dawn Zulueta keep her youthful glow?

by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

MANILA—Dawn Zulueta is one of the celebrities who seems not to age.

Her age of 46 doesn’t event show and she even looks younger than her age. What’s her secret? A positive outlook in life.

“I need to stay positive because I have dreams and children pa,” she said about keeping her youthful look.

She has two kids with Davao del Norte Rep. Antonio Lagdameo Jr. One is a ten-year-old boy while the other is a six-year-old girl.

“I think it helps po na mayro’n pa kong mga bagets na anak,” she added. “I feel like I can’t be umugod-ugod na, parang kailangan I’m energetic pa rin for them. So kahit 46 ako, I find activities na I spend time with them, nakakasabay ko pa rin sila.”

This and her unquestionable talent in acting may be the reasons ABS-CBN still has a series of projects for her.

One is the upcoming film with Richard Gomez and Bea Alonzo, The Love Affair which will be in cinemas on August 12.

The other is her upcoming TV series with Richard with a Spongecola, Kjwan, Itchyworms, Ebe Dancel (not in the photo) and Mikey Bustos collaborate to write a song for overseas Filipino workers. working title You’re My Home.

Philstar.com photo by Joyce Jimenez

Dawn Zulueta looks dashing with husband Davao del Norte Rep. Antonio Lagdameo Jr. at the red carpet of President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III’s last State of the Nation Address.

Philstar.com photo by Jonathan Asuncion

august 7-13, 2015 www.asianjournal.com

3

Buying a new car stress-free: Kababayans at DCH Toyota of Torrance will show you how

FILIPINO Loyd Aler landed his first Highlander, Priuses and Camry models. job as a produce and vegetable delivery Joining Aler in the Filipino Dept. of man.

DCH Toyota of Torrance are Phillip Rivera Then he became a fast food (Sales & Leasing Consultant), Edgar restaurant manager, and then a quality Relova (Sales & Leasing Consultant) insurance inspector. and JP Panganiban (Sales & Leasing His father, Edgar, who used to work in Consultant). wholesale for food and vegetables, and Aler as a manager of DCH’s that inspired him to ultimately pursue Filipino department, welcomes and looks forward to serving his fellow UPAAGC 2015 UP Mindanao Scholars: From left: Abbie Glenn Estribillo, BS Food Technology, a career in sales: today, he works as the cum laude, Chancellor Sylvia B. Concepcion, PhD., Evelyn Kalaw Espina, 2010 UPAAGC Treasurer, Filipino Dept. Manager and Senior Sales kababayans. His overflowing friendly Specialist at DCH Toyota of Torrance. and Yunace Autentico Dayaganon, BS Agribusiness Economis, dean’s list. personality, as well as that of Rivera, “I really love what I do for living and Relova and Panganiban, make the I enjoy very much not just selling cars, Filipino sales team approachable and but making new friends, selling great easy to talk to. products, and helping people get and Aler says he enjoys his job, although drive their dream cars,” he says. one of the bigger challenges he faces in Buying a car is no easy decision. his job is when interested buyers with Chicago, Illinois—Freshmen including its renowned leadership It requires careful thought and it’s poor credit or lower incomes are turned students entering college for in food technology research and something Aler understands. Since 2002 down by the bank. DCH offers special academic year 2015-2016 at agribusiness economics programs in he has been selling Toyota vehicles, a promotions, including low APRs and $0 brand that has been touted for its safety, the University of the Philippines the region. down payments, but it isn’t always easy retail value and longevity.

Mindanao have an opportunity to UPAAGC strives to fulfill its We welcome all of our kababayan at DCH Toyota Filipino Sales Dept. Simply call to extend these to certain customers. us at toll free (888) 443-7619. We can always help you get an affordable car In addition to the quality brand he apply for any of the 4 full scholarship mission to promote and elevate “But for me, that’s the time I will be you want to drive that will fit your budget through a very smooth professional sells, Aler works at an auto dealership grants being offered in BS Food the quality of education at the friendly super fast straight forward transaction. Just ask for Loyd, Phillip, Ed or more aggressive and shop around for owned by a businessman based in more banks to help them,” he says.

JP. Tawag na kaibigan!

Technology (2 slots) and School of University. In 2010, UPAAGC also Hong Kong. It was established almost a In most cases, Aler is able to pull Agribusiness Economics (2 slots). donated $5,000 to UP Los Banos decade ago and is continually growing: since its inception, it has opened some strings and find a way to overcome this particular hurdle in the All four scholarships include school Library, and $6,000 to UP Diliman more than 20 DCH dealerships across the United States, with locations in selling process, though interest rates tend to be just a little higher for fees and monthly allowance for Institute of Chemistry to help Temecula, Oxnard, Simi Valley, and on the east coast in New York and New individuals with credit and income limitations. four years for students who meet rebuild the labs burned down by Jersey. The goal of the company is to exceed customers’ expectations and “But the important thing is they [have] another chance to get a car loan the grant terms and requirements. accidental fires. To sustain future provide exceptional service to ensure the highest satisfaction. Among ways and that helps build their credit again,” he says.

Application documents should be alumni programs, $12,000 operating the dealership demonstrates how much customers matter is by delivering DCH Toyota of Torrance is conveniently located just off the 110 at: 2909 submitted to Liza Fulvadora of the funds were left over to the UPAAGC luxury services including oil changes, loaner cars, shuttles and much much Pacific Coast Highway, Torrance, CA 90505.

Scholarships and Financial Services, Board for 2011. more.

DISCOUNT CONNECTION HOTLINE for Kababayans Phone: (888) 443Office of Student Affairs, UP In June 2015, UPAAGC’s first The dealership also boasts a wide selection of new and pre-owned 7619.

Mindanao Administration Building, batch of scholars finished their vehicles to meet the broad range of tastes and needs customers have.

DCH Toyota of Torrance is open Mondays through Saturdays from Mintal, Davao City. For queries, use 4-year college education with flying Among the customers that visit DCH Toyota of Torrance, Aler says 8:30am to 9pm, and on Sundays, from 10am to 8pm. telefax (082) 293-1353, mobile +639- colors: Abbie Glenn Estribillo, BS he sees many Filipinos who show interest in a variety of cars, including

(Advertising Supplement) 918-4934, and osa.upmindanao@ Food Technology, cum laude, and up.edu.ph. Document submission Yunace Autentico Dayaganon, BS deadline is Friday, August 14, 2015.

Agribusiness Economics, dean’s list.

The scholarship grant of $30,000 “The grants provided us with much was established by the University of better future having been the first the Philippines Alumni Association in our families to finish college. of Greater Chicago (UPAAGC) from Words cannot express enough the proceeds of Dr. Raul Sunico our gratitude to UPAAGC. Your piano concert in August 2010 under generosity is so inspiring and the initiative of Grace A. Villamora, memorable. Salamat po,” excerpted 2010 UPAAGC President, the 2010 from emails of Abbie and Yunace.

UPAAGC Board, and Education Johanna Segala, 2015 UPAAGC Committee. Unprecedented in President remarked, “Naiiyak scope and donation funding, this naman ako sa sulat ng mga batang UPAAGC grant provides a chance of ito. Their progress report letters a lifetime for bright Filipino students are so touching. Our concerted to finish college despite family efforts in Chicago are richly hardships and displacements in rewarded.” Johanna invites all UP Mindanao. UPAAGC supports the alumni and friends to visit upaagc. academic excellence and faculty org for upcoming events and commitment at UP Mindanao program.

UP Mindanao offers 4 full scholarships for college freshmen

Edu Manzano challenges everyone to be fit HE is turning 60 this September and yet he stays fit and younglooking. Veteran actor, TV personality and businessman Edu Manzano admitted that he will be a senior citizen soon but feels a lot younger because he maintains a strict, balanced diet, a regular fitness routine, and surrounds himself with a regular dose of green space.

“I believe people should be ready with retirement at an early age by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I strictly follow certain healthy habits that help me keep up with the demands of my career and personal life,” explained Manzano during the launch of Abbot’s “Ensure Stay Strong Grip Strength Challenge.”

But Edu also clarified that change is envitable and sometimes hard to accept.

“Change is usually difficult, especially when it comes to our bodies as we age. I realize that simple tasks such as lifting objects, walking up the stairs and doing other daily physical activities are not as easy compared to doing these 10 or 15 years ago,” he said.

Edu Manzano

A recent survey among Filipinos aged 40 and above shows that loss of strength is their top health concern. In line with this pressing concern, Abbot is running the “Ensure Stay Strong Grip Strenght Challenge”—a free assessment on strength and muscles mass that aims to reach aging adults nationwide.

(Lea Manto-Beltran/ManilaTimes.net)

Yey Coronel: Finding her...

From Page 2

daily and work with FASGI to find permanent housing and stable employment.

“The residents either come to us by walk-in or referral. One thing we do is treat them well and like humans, by providing fresh food and with the compassion and hospitality of the Filipino,” Coronel said.

Other services include: the Citizen Naturalization Project in conjunction with Advancing Justice Los Angeles that helps individuals complete and file their citizenship applications; FilVote, which encourages Filipinos to participate in elections; a health and wellness program for aging Filipinos; and the rider relief program that provides free bus coupons for those in need.

Even with signature programs already in place, Coronel has slowly made her own mark on the organization by introducing new initiatives like a coffee club program that has blossomed into lessons on computer literacy and exercise classes.

On Saturday, August 8, FASGI will open its doors for a community day, an idea that came about

after Coronel was approached by various organizations and individuals who had services and resources to donate. Along with other Filipino-American organizations, event will be held at FASGI’s Park View House and will feature free food packages by the Pinoy Ministry, free cell phones through the Lifelife Program for eligible attendees, free bus coupons, naturalization and citizenship application assistance, wellness activities, and more. “[The event] just organically grew. If the intention is good, the heart is in the right place, then things can get done,” Coronel said.

Though she’s still getting settled in and reintegrating herself back into the community, Coronel shared that her next steps will be looking at services that individuals really need and finding ways to make Historic Filipinotown look more like a hub for Filipinos.

“I hope FASGI can be a neutral place for people to meet.

It’s a place for us to serve the community. We don’t turn anyone away without referring them,” she said. If the intention is good, the heart is in the right place, then things can get done.”

august 7-13, 2015 www.asianjournal.com

4

How will your guilty plea affect your ability to stay in the US? Your Immigration Solution Atty. Robert Reeves Nancy E. Miller of Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza

Committing a crime can get you into a lot of trouble. But entering a plea in criminal court may get you into even more trouble. If you don’t know the immigration consequences of the plea you enter, your troubles may just be beginning. That great deal that kept you out of jail may also get you deported.

That is why the United States Supreme Court has said, in Padilla v. Kentucky, that criminal defense lawyers must either tell their noncitizen clients the immigration consequences of their proposed agreement or instruct them to seek the advice of an immigration attorney.

Mr. Padilla had lived in the United States as a lawful permanent resident for over 40 years. He had served in the military with honor during the Vietnam War. When he learned that he faced deportation after pleading guilty to the transportation of a large amount of marijuana, he went back into criminal court to try to withdraw his guilty plea (a process called post-conviction relief ). He said that his criminal defense attorney failed to advise him of the immigration consequences of the plea. He also said that his defense attorney told him that he “did not have to worry about immigration status since he had been in the country for so long.” In fact, Padilla’s guilty plea made deportation a certainty.

He said that, if he had known that, he would have taken his case to trial. When the courts in Kentucky denied his request for post-conviction relief, he asked the Supreme Court to review his case. The Court agreed to

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review the case and decided that criminal defense counsel have an obligation to advise their immigrant client that the offense to which he is pleading will result in his removal from this country.

The Court held that the importance of accurate legal advice for noncitizens accused of crimes has never been more important. It recognized that deportation is sometimes the most important part of the penalty that may be imposed on noncitizen defendants who plead guilty to specific crimes.

For that reason, a defendant is entitled to the effective assistance of competent counsel before deciding to enter into a plea agreement.

The test for determining whether representation is competent was set forth in a case called Strickland v. Washington.

The Strickland test has two parts.

The first part examines whether counsel’s representation fell below an objective standard of reasonableness. The second part looks to whether the result would have been different but for the unprofessional error (in other words, was the defendant prejudiced by the incompetent representation). To satisfy this section, a noncitizen will have to convince the court that a decision to reject the plea bargain would have been rational under the circumstances.

The Court did not, however, go so far as to require that criminal defense attorneys become experts in the area of immigration law. It acknowledged that immigration law is complex and that there will be numerous situations in which the deportation consequences of a particular plea may be unclear or uncertain. As Justice Alito said in his concurring decision in Padilla, “nothing is ever simple with immigration law”. Terms such as “conviction”, “moral turpitude”, “single scheme of criminal misconduct” are

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terms of art and have different meanings in immigration law than in state law. Other concepts in the Immigration & Nationality Act are ambiguous or confusing to attorneys not versed in the intricacies of immigration law.

Is someone an alien (or are they a citizen without knowing it)?

What is the difference between being inadmissible, removable or ineligible for naturalization?

Under Padilla, the criminal defense attorney does not need to know the answers to these questions. But the alien trying to avoid deportation must.

The question then for the noncitizen accused of a crime is, how can he best protect himself from a “good” plea bargain that results in his deportation?

The immigrant quite plainly must consult an immigration attorney experienced and knowledgeable in the immigration consequences of criminal offenses and convictions and he must do so before he enters into any plea agreement.

Ideally, his criminal defense attorney and his immigration attorney should work together to obtain a “deal” that is beneficial from both a criminal defense and an immigration standpoint.

To the alien who says “why should I have two attorneys just to deal with this one criminal problem?” The answer is “because you want to be able to legally stay in the United States.” *** Atty. Reeves has represented clients in numerous landmark immigration cases that have set new policies regarding INS action and immigrants’ rights. His offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City.

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

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The E visa classification as an immigration option for the business savvy immigrant Barrister’s Corner ATTY. KENNETH URSUA REYES FOR most professional immigrants that seek long term immigration status in the US, the key to success is finding an employer that would Petition them for an H-1b visa. The problem recently though is the reduction in the visa numbers for this classification that makes this visa unavailable most of the year after the cap has been reached.

However, for those immigrants that have either a business in their home country, or have the capital or can raise the capital to establish a business in the US, there is another option for obtaining long term status in the US. This is either through the E-1 “treaty traders” or the E-2 “treaty investors.” Both classifications required that 1) the alien seeking E status is a national of a country with an appropriate treaty; 2) the US business to employ the alien is owned at least 50% by nationals of the same country as the E alien; 3) the trade or investment by the treaty nationals is “substantial”; and 4) the alien seeking E status either is an actual investor in the US business,

has an executive or supervisory position in the US business, or possesses skills essential to the US business.

The major distinction between the two is that under the E-1, the US business must conduct “substantial trade” with and for which over 50% of the substantial trade conducted with the treaty country. On the other hand, the E-2 requires “substantial investment” in the US business.

The E classification offers several advantages over other employment based nonimmigrant classifications such as the H-1b and the L-1. First, no prior preapproved petition is required from the CIS. The immigrant

Hail to the ordinary

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

“There are definitely some enemies in my life I definitely would wish celebrity on ...”

MONETTE ADEVA MAGLAYA

—Gary Coleman, dead at 42, suffered a reversal of fortune, star of the sitcom, “Diff’rent Strokes”

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IN 2010, a young boy who climbed Mount Everest gained a spot in the Guinness Book of World Records. He was on TV for his 15 minutes of celebrity status. I had to flip the channel.

Abby Sunderland, a California teenager who set out in January 2010 to circumnavigate the world solo and who eventually sent out distress signals that had three countries scrambling to launch rescue missions in the dangerous South Indian Ocean. She’s alive and well apparently.

Ian Kiernan, an Australian record holder for the same feat says, “I don’t know what she’s doing in the Southern Ocean as a 16-year-old in the middle of winter.

It’s foolhardy.” Abby’s brother had achieved the feat a few years ago.

And it was enough to make the younger sibling decide, hey me too.

Back in April 1996, a 7-year old named Jessica, died together with her father and flight instructor, their plane crashing after take-off in Cheyenne, Wyoming. Jessica was trying to become the youngest person to fly an airplane across the US. And who can ever forget the insane inanity of the “balloon boy’s” parents?

Such stunts have been met with criticism, some loud and harsh and some with just a mute shaking of the head. I, for one, am deeply suspicious about the values that generate this kind of vainglorious dreams that badly skews our perceptions of what matters in life.

As others are finding out, celebrity can be a curse. When will this insanity of glory hounds end, both these young ones and their parents? Does the lure of making it on the books, celebrity, money and endorsements and feeling superior overtake common sense? Do parents feel the need to bask in the reflected glory of their children’s achievements? Surely there has got to be more to life than satisfying one’s ego. Surely, there are more worthwhile things in the world such self-absorption can be redirected to.

In the interest of providing a view that may knock some sense to some of us with pie-in-the sky longings for recognition and celebrity, here’s an article that attempts to provoke thought. This addresses the same tendency that in Greek mythology, had Icarus’ wax wings melting in the heat of the sun as he flew higher, the same thing that doomed the fallen angels and the same thing that may have driven Adam and Eve from Eden. Here it is – an attempt to show appreciation for what simply is.

The world we live in is conditioned to emulate extremes.

We delight in the most beautiful, the tallest, the largest, the richest, the brightest, the fastest and anything else you can think of, as well as pay attention to extremes at the opposite end of the spectrum: the ugliest, the shortest, the smallest, the poorest,

Calendar of Events across

may apply directly with the US Consulate. Second, there is no time limit an alien may stay in the US under an E classification. Third, there is no required affi liation with a foreign company as long as the US business is owned by at least 50% by nationals of the alien’s treaty country. Fourth, there is no requirement that the alien worked with a foreign affi liate. Fifth, the Alien’s dependent Spouse may legally work in the United States.

The major disadvantage of the E is that either substantial investment or substantial trade with the treaty country is required. Also, this is not an option is the alien’s country does not have a treaty with the United States.

Alien investors can come to the US on a B-1 to evaluate business and investment opportunities. For more conservative investors, a safer option for maximizing success from both an immigration angle and a business angle is to purchase an existing business.

Purchasing an existing and profitable business is more likely to satisfy the “substantial investment” requirement. Preparing an E case requires presenting legal and financial documents which reflects the ownership structure of the business as well as its financial condition. In the case of a new business, a well put together business plan should be prepared.

Problem Solved

You may now qualify for the provisional I-601a waiver

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS 8L > L JK / (

Jk% =iXeZ`j :_`c[i\eËj =le[ (,k_ 8ee`m\ijXip ;`ee\i 8lZk`fe Join us for a night of great food, dancing, fellowship, and answering to God’s call of helping poor children and victims of Typhoon Haiyan in the Philippines. This special fundraising dinner dance and silent auction will take place on Saturday, August 8th at Griffith Park Visitor Center Auditorium (4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles, CA) from 6 to 10:30pm. For reservations, please call 818-748-7361 or 818-627-3720.

K_fdXj`Xej LJ8 ),k_ J`cm\i 8ee`m\ijXip The Thomasians USA (Sto. Tomas, Pampanga) will celebrate their 25th Silver Anniversary on August 8, 2015 at the Westin Hotel - LAX. The association is headed by Liza Diaz, president. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. For additional information, please call Linda Simbulan (562) 607-2811 or Dan Sunga at (818) 359-5853.

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E8J: +0k_ 8ee`m\ijXip ;`ee\i$;XeZ\ The Nagcarlan Association of Southern California will celebrate their 49th Anniversary with a fundraising dinner-dance at the Stardancers Dance Studio on Saturday, August 15, 2015. For any questions, please call Roger Flores at (818) 438-8893.

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=`\jkX `e 8d\i`ZX Now on its 17th year, Fiesta in America (FIA) presents trade & cultural show and food festival on Aug. 15 & 16 at Meadowlands Expo Center in Secaucus, NJ. The concert segment features Philippine-based singer-actress Vina Morales and TV personalities Edgar Allan Guzman and Maxene Magalona. On opening day on Saturday, Aug. 15, senior citizens (62 years and above) and children (below 6 years) can enter the expo free of charge between 12 noon and 1pm and can take a free health screening inside. Free seminars on various topics are scheduled. General admission: $25; Seniors $18. To sponsor, exhibit, advertise or attend, call 212.682.6610 or email info@fiestainamerica.com.

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LG88>C8 @e[lZk`fe ;`ee\i$;XeZ\ All U.P. Graduates, family and friends are invited to attend The Induction Dinner Dance of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles (UPAAGLA) on August 29, 2015 at 6pm at the Glendale Embassy Suites (800 Central Ave, Glendale, CA 91203). This event shall benefit the Scholarship Fund of UPAAGLA. Tickets are $75 inclusive of dinner. For ticket and sponsorship inquiries, please contact Arnel Joaquin (213) 880-3305 / arnelj@gmail.com, or Dick Cu (562) 547-0560, or visit www.upaagla.org.

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consular processing without having to risk denial of the waiver abroad. The provisional waiver will dramatically reduce the risk of leaving the United States to obtain an immigrant visa.

On November 20, 2014, President Obama announced a series of executive orders aimed to fix our broken immigration system. Among one of the orders was to expand the I-601A provisional waiver. Currently, a provisional waiver is only available to applicants with an immediate relative petition and with a U.S. citizen qualifying relative.

Practically, it only benefited a spouse of a U.S. citizen, a child of a U.S. citizen over the age of 18, but under 21 who has accrued unlawful presence, or in limited cases, an applicant with a 21 year-old (or older) US citizen son or daughter and a U.S. citizen parent. But what about those that are petitioned by permanent residents? What about those that only have a permanent resident spouse or parent as a qualifying relative? The new initiative aims to provide relief for those that were not covered.

On July 15, 2015, the Department of Homeland Security issued a draft of the proposed changes pursuant to President Obama’s executive orders. The proposed changed would expand the I-601A provisional waiver to cover immigrants in all immigrant visa categories such as family-sponsored immigrants, employment-based immigrants among others. Additionally, the qualifying relative has been extended from only U.S. citizen

spouse and parents to lawful permanent resident spouses and parents. The proposed expansion will permit any immigrant seeking an immigrant visa who would be eligible for an I-601 waiver of unlawful presence abroad to now apply for a provisional waiver BEFORE leaving the U.S. to attend to his or her immigrant visa interview.

These changes are a step towards the right direction in providing relief for many people currently living in the United States unlawfully. The proposed changes are currently under review and are not applicable until a final rule is issued. However, it should give people hope.

This expansion could be the difference between devastating family separation and family unity.

At Wilner & O’Reilly, we have helped thousands of people and families stay together. Unfortunately, we still see many deserving individuals left without relief who can benefit from reform. This minor, but important change may apply to you. Take advantage and know if you qualify. Schedule your free consultation today. ***

“residence” as the place of general abode, which is the principal and actual dwelling place, without regard to intent. However, domicile is much more than mere residence.

8 CFR 213a.1 defines “domicile” as the sponsor’s place of principal CHARLES MEDINA, ESQ. residence, with the intention to maintain that residence for the IN applications for immigration foreseeable future. Thus, domicile benefits or relief, the focus is often is the combination of “residence” on the qualifications or eligibility and intention to maintain such of the alien for such benefits or residence. relief. In this article, I would like Under 8 CFR 213a.2(c)(1)(ii)(A), to emphasize some important if a person is residing abroad requirements on a Form I-130 temporarily, he may still qualify as petitioner in family petitions. An an affi davit of support sponsor if he I-130 petition is the preliminary step can show that his domicile remains in a process that could lead to the in the US. grant of lawful permanent resident If a person is not domiciled (LPR) status to an alien relative. The in the US, 8 CFR 213a.2(c)(1)(ii)(B) I-130 petitioner is the US citizen allows a person to submit an (USC) or LPR family member who affi davit of support if such sponsor initiates this process. Here are some could show that he will establish a requirements on an I-130 petitioner. domicile in the US on or before the First, an I-130 petitioner must date of the principal immigrant’s execute a Form I-864 affi davit of admission or adjustment of support for the alien beneficiary status. A sponsor who intends to of the petition. An affi davit of establish his principal residence in support is not required for the the US may even come to the US approval of the I-130 petition itself at the same time as the principal but it is necessary for the approval immigrant. of the immigrant visa or I-485 Third, under INA 204(a)(2)(A), adjustment application that the an I-130 filed by an LPR petitioner alien beneficiary must file after the for his alien spouse may not be approval of the I-130. An affi davit approved if: (1) the marriage of support is a contract that binds occurred within five years from the petitioner-sponsor to support the time the LPR petitioner was the sponsored alien at an annual granted LPR status; and (2) the income that is not less than 125 LPR petitioner obtained his LPR percent of the federal poverty status through a prior marriage line during the period when the to a USC or LPR spouse. However, affi davit is enforceable. An affi davit this prohibited petition under of support is required because, INA 204(a)(2)(A) may nevertheless under INA 212(a)(4), an applicant be approved if: (1) the LPR for admission or adjustment is petitioner establishes that the inadmissible as an alien likely to marriage through which he gained become a public charge unless permanent residence was not the qualified sponsor executes this entered for the purpose of evading affi davit of support. immigration laws; or (2) the Second, since 8 CFR marriage through which the LPR 213a.2(c)(1)(i)(B) requires an affi davit petitioner obtained permanent of support sponsor to be domiciled residence was terminated through in the US or any US territory or death. The purpose of this law is to possession, an I-130 petitioner is prevent aliens from benefiting from in effect required to be domiciled fraudulent marriages. in the US. INA 101(a)(33), defines Fourth, under the Adam

Walsh Act, an I-130 petitioner who has been convicted of a “specified offense against a minor” is prohibited from filing a family-based immigrant petition for any beneficiary, unless USCIS determines in its discretion that the petitioner poses no risk to the beneficiary. These specified offenses against a minor involve the following: (1) kidnapping, unless committed by a parent or guardian; (2) false imprisonment, unless committed by a parent or guardian; (3) solicitation to engage in sexual conduct; (4) use in a sexual performance; (5) solicitation to practice prostitution; (6) video voyeurism as described in 18 USC 1801; (7) possession, production, or distribution of child pornography; (8) criminal sexual conduct involving a minor; or (9) any conduct that by its nature is a sex offense against a minor.

The purpose of the Adam Walsh Act is to protect children from abuse, sexual exploitation, and violent crime. However, it not only protects minor children, who are defined as individuals under 18 years of age, but also prohibits the filing of a petition for other beneficiaries such as a spouse, fiancé(e), parent, unmarried child, unmarried son or daughter over 21 years of age, orphan, married son or daughter, brother or sister, and their derivative beneficiaries.

A petitioner with a conviction for a specified offense against a minor must submit evidence of rehabilitation and any other evidence that shows he poses no risk to the safety or well-being of the intended beneficiary such as evidence of intervening exemplary service to the community.

ATTY. KELLY O’REILLY

AMNESTY, executive orders, federal lawsuits, injunctions are words that have been tossed the darkest, the slowest. You get around frequently this year in the idea. regards to immigration. For We’re conditioned to pay no many immigrants, much of the mind to the ordinary, the middle information is overwhelming. It ground, the average run-ofseems like President Obama’s the-mill, the shades of gray, the executive actions to aid unlawful humdrum of everyday life or the immigrants have been met with predictably dull and boring.

The heroes and heroines made strong opposition. Popular items such as extending Deferred Action immortal in books and movies for Childhood Arrivals (NEW DACA) were extraordinary characters. and Deferred Action for Parental We do not particularly care for Accountability (DAPA) have been bland characters who live lives halted by the Federal Court. Despite of quiet desperation. We want to these lawsuits, good news was live vicariously through the lives revealed last week by USCIS as they of characters who are defiantly shaking their fists at the gods and are proceeding with the expansion of the I-601A provisional waiver. beating all odds.

On March 4, 2013, the unlawful We are tempted to look at presence provisional waiver movie stars, fat cats and other procedure took effect. Traditionally, luminaries who dare defy immigrants that were unable to conventions basking in the public limelight pursued by TMZ cameras adjust status in the United States must leave the United States to as people worthy of awe and respect. And if you let it, a tiny tinge consular process their immigrant visas with a waiver for their of envy gnaws at our souls when you see their images commanding unlawful presence. However, many immigrants were wary of the megabucks. They appear as titans risks. If the waiver failed at the U.S. walking among ants. consulate, they would be unable Granted a select few of them to return to the United States and deserve the attention we give reunite with their wife and children. them but most can be reduced The waiver procedure, known as the to fodder for the gristmill of I-601A provisional waiver, aimed entertainment. The truth is, those who deserve our awe and respect to relieve such dilemma. It allows for immigrants, physically present are the ones who orbit our daily in the United States, to file for a life. (Continued next week) provisional waiver in the United *** EfkX 9\e\1 Dfe\kk\ 8[\mX DX^cXpX `j JMG States. If the provisional waiver f] 8j`Xe AflieXc GlYc`ZXk`fej# @eZ% Kf j\e[ is approved, then the immigrant Zfdd\ekj# \$dX`c dfe\kk\%dX^cXpX7 would proceed with normal Xj`XeaflieXc`eZ%Zfd

It may be necessary to employ the services of other experts such as a CPA in addition to the immigration attorney. Due to the complexity of the E classification, aliens should seek the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney.

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Requirements on an I-130 petitioner

Tales from the Arena

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