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Volume 15 - No. 6 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

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US closely monitoring ISIS threat in Philippines, Southeast Asia

DATELINE USA from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

Fil-Am mother, son charged with smuggling gun parts to PH

by Pia Lee-Brago Philstar.com

A fILIPINo-American woman from Long Beach, California and her son have been charged with smuggling ammunition and firearm parts to the Philippines. marlou mendoza, 60, was arrested last week at Los Angeles International Airport upon returning from a trip to the Philippines, officials from the Us Attorney’s office said Wednesday, Jan. 27. her 30-year-old son, mark mendoza, remains at large and is believed to be in the Philippines, Inquirer reported. Prosecutors say he operated a business called Last resort Armaments, according to The Associated Press (AP). the mother and son were indicted on separate charges by a federal grand jury last month. In 2011, the mother and son attempted to

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Ted Cruz, Hillary Clinton victorious in Iowa Caucus

F E BR U A RY 5 - 1 1 , 2 0 1 6

mANILA — the Us is working closely with the government to monitor the threat of the Islamic state of Iraq and syria in the Philippines and southeast Asia. speaking at the Pandesal forum in Quezon City, Us Ambassador Philip Goldberg said the rhetorical support of the Abu sayyaf, Bangsamoro Islamic freedom fighters and Ansar al-Khalifa to IsIs might become a danger to the country or the region. “We all have to be on guard against groups that pledge allegiance to IsIs, that say they want involvement in the kinds of activities and ideologies presented by IsIs, and we are watching that IsIs in the Philippines very closely and we need to continue to do so to make sure that whatever rhetorical support or whatever might be happening behind the scenes is not something that becomes a danger to the Philippines or the region,” he said. “And I think that’s a joint commitment that we have, the security involving the countries of the world who are trying to defeat this scourge of terrorism, especially the one represented by this brutal group,” he added. the world is facing terrorists using social media and other means of communication to link groups and ideologies in many places, Goldberg said.

NEW YEAR HOPES FOR PEACE. Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario is shown in conversation with Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua during the celebration of the Chinese Spring Festival at the Makati Shangri-La on Tuesday night, Feb. 2. The Chinese ambassador is hoping for stronger relationship with the Filipino people despite of the ongoing maritime dispute between the Philippines and China.

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the Iowa Caucus on monday, feb. 1 – the first major hurdle on the narrow road to the presidential elections – proved to be a night of political surprises. thousands of Iowa residents gathered in various caucus sites across the state to hear candidates’ appeals and make their vote, officially starting off the nomination process for both Democrat and republican parties. In the crowded GoP race, texas sen. ted Cruz — supported widely by evangelical Christians, and backed by vigorous campaigning in the state — defeated real estate mogul Donald trump in the republican caucuses. Cruz won about a third of the evangelical vote, reported the New York Times. With 98 percent of precincts reporting,

Philstar.com photo

Aquino responsible for SAF 44 deaths, says House bloc

Undocumented students can receive financial aid under CA DREAM loan program

by Jess

Diaz Philstar.com

oVer 3,000 undocumented undergraduate students will now mANILA – President Aquino bears have access to the California responsibility for the massacre of 44 DreAm Loan program, an initiaspecial Action force commandos in tive worth $5 million in financial mamasapano, maguindanao on Jan. aid funded by the University of 25 last year, lawmakers belonging to California and the state. the independent bloc of the house of In an announcement made on representatives said on tuesday, febthursday, Jan. 28, UC President ruary 2. Janet Napolitano said that finan“taken in its totality, the onus of cial aid offices at the system’s nine responsibility for the mamasapano undergraduate campuses will be massacre falls squarely in the hands reaching out to undocumented of President Aquino,” the bloc said in AB 540 undergraduates with ofits report on the incident. u PAGE A2 fers of loan assistance through u PAGE A3 Pres. Benigno Aquino III the program for the 2015-2016 academic year. Under Assembly Bill 540, qualifying undocumented students are charged resident fees and exempted from out-ofagainst the disease since the by Niña P. CaLLeJa mosquito carrying the virus was state supplemental tuition. aND TiNa g. saNTos present in the country. Inquirer.net “Worldwide, the local transobservers think the filipino icon by DiNo Maragay the Department of health mission of the Zika virus within will not stay retired. Philstar.com Count freddie roach among (Doh) on tuesday, feb. 2,, as- the last nine months had been mANILA — Despite manny them. sured the public that the Philip- confirmed in 28 countries, mostly Pacquiao’s repeated claims that speaking recently to michael pines was still free of the Zika in Latin America. the Philippines he will retire after his fight with rosenthal of ringtV.com, Pac- virus as it announced measures, is not on this list,” Garin said. timothy Bradley this April, some quiao’s longtime cornerman including increasing the number “however, the vector Aedes said boxing won’t be totally out of testing kits, to address the dis- aegypti mosquito—the same of Pacquiao’s mind even if the ease should cases turn up in the type of mosquito that spreads dengue, Chikungunya and yelsarangani congressman suc- country. In a press briefing, health low fever—is in the Philippines ceeds in his senatorial bid. “A lot depends on whether he secretary Janette Garin said the so we are very aggressive in our becomes a senator or not,” said government remained vigilant u PAGE A2 roach. “If he doesn’t win t he senate race, what will he do? Does he go back to being a congressman? Being a congressman and a boxer is oK. Being a senator and boxer may be a little too much,” he added. Pacquiao is running for senator under the opposition party of presidential hopeful and incumbent Vice President Jejomar Binay. In the latest survey of

Pacquiao as fighting senator? DOH says PH still free of Zika virus Roach thinks it’s still possible

“By reducing barriers and expanding access to higher education for undocumented students, the University of California is investing not only in the future of these students, but also in the future of our state and nation,” said Napolitano in a statement. the DreAm loan program, proposed by Napolitano in 2014, was authorized that same year when the Legislature passed sB 1210, authored by state sen. ricardo Lara. funding was not made available until this academic year. the initial $5 million for the California DreAm Program, equally funded by the University of California and state general

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Manny Pacquiao

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FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

From the Front Page

US closely monitoring ISIS threat in… PAGE A1 t

“What I’m saying is that we have to watch very closely to see if at any point something develops more than this rhetorical situation, and we are concerned that something like that could happen, that’s why we do watch it closely,” he said. “That’s why we cooperate on

counter terrorism; that’s why we share information; that’s why we work for the special forces in the Philippines,” Goldberg added. In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs said the Philippines stands in solidarity with other peace-loving countries in expressing deep concern on the continuing terrorist acts world-

wide that indiscriminately target innocent civilians. “Of late, the world has witnessed terrorist acts in Europe, Africa and Asia,” read the statement. “Today, more than ever, the world should close ranks to ensure that terrorism is combated in all its forms and wherever they may occur.” n

Aquino responsible for SAF 44 deaths… PAGE A1 t

Reps. Martin Romualdez of Leyte, Lito Atienza of Buhay and Jonathan de la Cruz of Abakada held a news conference to present their report. Aquino, as chief executive and commander-in-chief, failed to provide guidance and leadership in the planning, execution and after-mission conduct of this critical undertaking dubbed Oplan Exodus to neutralize three suspected terrorists, they said. “He approved and directed the mission using inputs from

a limited circle of subordinates, principally then suspended PNP chief Alan Purisima and SAF chief Getulio Napeñas,” read the report. On the day of the police raid to capture the suspected terrorists, Aquino was in Zamboanga City with several Cabinet members and high-ranking military and police officers, they said. “In fine, he was in a position to have stepped in at the early stages of the firefight and prevented the heavy loss of lives. That he did not order a more determined

effort to rescue the troops and… perhaps even to the extent of talking directly to his peace partner, MILF (Moro Islamic Liberation Front) chairman Murad Ibrahim, to stop the firefight instead of ‘bureaucratizing’ the ceasefire and rescue operations has fuelled suspicions that he actually issued a ‘stand down’ order to the troops,” read the report. Based on the actuations of Aquino and his companions in Zamboanga City, it was evident that there was such stand-down

COURTESY CALL. President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes His Eminence Most Rev. Jose S. Palma, Archibishop of Cebu and President of the 51st International Eucharistic Congress Organizing Committee and His Eminence Charles Maung Bo, SDB Papal Legate and Archbishop of Yangon during the Pontifical delegation courtesy call in Malacanang Monday, Feb. 1, 2016. Inquirer.net photo by Joan Bondoc

Undocumented students can receive…

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funds appropriated to UC, will be distributed according to need across campuses. According to the UC system, students under AB 540 can begin borrowing up to $4,000 each year in state loans, and each campus can determine how much each student can borrow. Students may borrow every year he or she is enrolled at a UC campus or until he or she receives a maximum of $20,000 in DREAM loans. “The DREAM loan program

will grow our college-educated workforce and make good on the promise that a college degree is possible for all hard-working, qualified California students regardless of their immigration status,” Lara said. Under the current law, undocumented students who graduate from a California high school and meet the California DREAM Act requirements are eligible for state and university aid. Their undocumented status, however, disqualifies them from receiving federal aid, which

severely limits their access to student loans. In addition, they have difficulty accessing private loans. “This new program will reduce that gap,” said Napolitano. “It will help even the playing field for undocumented students struggling to make ends meet.” Some campuses have eased the financial burden on undocumented students with case-bycase loans from the institution, but the DREAM program provides assistance across the UC system. (AJPress)

DOH says PH still free of Zika…

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surveillance and information dissemination,” she added. There’s a report that a Filipino contracted the mosquito-borne Zika virus in Honduras, which the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is looking into. “We have not received a report from the post that confirms this report,” Assistant Secretary Charles Jose, spokesperson for the DFA, said in a text message. Philippine health authorities are likewise validating the report that one of those infected by the virus in the country in the Caribbean is a Filipino woman. The World Health Organiza-

tion (WHO) earlier declared a global emergency over the spread of the Zika virus in Latin America and its suspected link to the surge of babies born with microcephaly, a congenital condition associated with incomplete brain development and abnormally small heads. Zika case in 2012 In the Philippines, a documented case of Zika virus infection was traced in Cebu in 2012. A 15-year-old boy was reported with symptoms of fever, headache, conjunctivitis, sore throat, muscle pain, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting.

After yielding negative results from tests on dengue and Chikungunya, the patient’s serum was tested positive for Zika virus. The patient recovered fully after three weeks of continuous bed rest and medication. Garin said at least six hospitals in the country would be catering suspected cases of the Zika virus by next week. The Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) in Muntinlupa City can accommodate patients who show symptoms of Zika infection, which usually begins three to seven days after being bitten by an in-

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(650) 616-4150 • http://www.asianjournal.com

Dateline USa

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016

Longer build, lower cost for CA bullet train by Allyson

EscobAr

AJPress

AQUAMAN. Triathlete-lawyer Ingemar Macarine, alias Pinoy Aquaman, described his solo swim crossing the Pamilacan Island to Baclayon, Bohol as the toughest. Macarine, who slept on the island a day before the swim, said he changed course more than 10 times because of the rough seas. Macarine clocked five hours and 59 minutes for the 15.5-kilometer swim, which he started at 5am. Philstar.com photo by Ric Obedencio

Ted Cruz, Hillary Clinton victorious in Iowa…

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Cruz had nearly 28 percent of the statewide vote, while Trump closely followed with 24 percent. “Tonight is a victory for courageous conservatives across Iowa and all across this great nation,” Cruz said. “Tonight, the state of Iowa has spoken. Tonight is a victory for the grass roots. Tonight is a victory for courageous conservatives all across Iowa and our great nation.” Cruz, who has been trailing Donald Trump in recent Iowa polls, also set the record for most Iowa caucus votes received by a single candidate. Florida Senator Marco Rubio trailed in third place, with 23.1 percent of the vote. “We are not waiting any longer to take our country back,” Rubio told his supporters that night. “I will be your nominee thanks to what you have done in this great state.”

Other Republican contenders, including former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Carly Fiorina, John Kasich, and Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul reported low numbers. For the Democrats, Hillary Clinton won by a very slim margin of victory over her opponent, Bernie Sanders. With a roughly 49.9 to 49.6 percent split, the Iowa Democratic Party described the race as a “historically close caucus.” Clinton proved victorious after the results showed the delegate gap larger than the 2.28 delegates available from the final, unreported Des Moines precinct, said New York Daily News. The former secretary of state has been leading every major national poll. “I am a progressive who gets things done for people,” Clinton, the top pick for 45 percent of likely Democratic caucus-go-

DOH says PH still free of Zika…

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fected mosquito. The common symptoms include fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis. Other symptoms are muscle pain, headache and vomiting. Testing kits At present, there are 1,000 kits available for testing the Zika virus at RITM. “Another batch of 1,000 kits will be delivered in two weeks,” Garin said. However, she noted that the DOH could not use these kits to test just anyone as there was a lack of testing kits in other countries. “We do not like to create panic or overreact because we would like to target our resources where it is necessary,” Garin said. “If we have stocks, let’s not abuse its use. We don’t waste our resources and we will use it at the appropriate time.” She added that the testing kit for the Zika virus was not available commercially and only research centers, such as Center for Disease Control in Atlanta, Georgia, had it. Potential link Garin said health experts were investigating a potential link between the Zika virus in pregnant women and microcephaly. “Until concrete evidence are verified, women who are preg-

nant or planning to become pregnant should take extra care to protect themselves from mosquito bites. Pregnant women who are experiencing symptoms of the virus should seek early consultation,” she said. The health secretary also advised pregnant women to avoid visiting places or countries where there had been reported cases of the disease. “The Zika virus per se is not alarming to the patient. What is alarming is the possible causes to the fetus for the first three months of pregnancy,” Garin noted. Sexually transmitted “There is one case of a woman who tested positive for the Zika virus but she had no travel history. Turns out, her husband, who also tested positive, had travel history. There is a possibility it was sexually transmitted because the virus was found in the semen,” she said. But the Zika virus, unlike HIV and hepatitis, does not stay in the human body for life, Garin said. She also said that the WHO still was not recommending any travel and trade or screening restrictions related to the disease. “But it is advised that travelers going to and coming from countries with known Zika virus cases maintain a high level of vigilance and self-care,” Garin added. n

Aquino responsible for SAF…

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directive, although it was “unspoken,” they said. Malacañang and military officials have denied there was a stand-down order for the military from Aquino. “The MILF must share responsibility for the deadly outcome of this campaign… they should have taken every available step to turn in the high value targets (suspected terrorists) in accordance with their commitments under the ceasefire and related agreements with the government,” read the report. Meanwhile, six survivors of

the Mamasapano clash were conferred the PNP Distinguished Conduct Medal (Medalya ng Kabayanihan) and PNP Distinguished Service Medal (Medalya ng Katapatan sa Paglilingkod). The National Police Commission has issued resolutions supporting the special awards for Police Officers 3 Solomon Agayso, Jovalyn Lozano, Jose Mana-ar Jr.; Police Officer 2 Clifford Agayyong; and Sr. Supts. Fernando Mendez Jr. and Edgar Monsalve, according to Interior Secretary Mel Senen Sarmiento, concurrent Napolcom chairman. (With report from Cecille Suerte Felipe)

Pacquiao as fighting senator… PAGE A1 t

the Social Weather Stations, he ranked eighth among senatorial candidates. If Pacquiao defeats Bradley and becomes the WBO welterweight champion then wins the elections the following month, Roach said his ward might be prompted to defend the title even if he’s already a senator. “I do know Manny well, though. He would love to be the senator who defended his title someday. I don’t think this [Bradley fight] is his last fight for some reason,” the trainer continued. “I just don’t see it because he has a lot left in him. His work

ethic is still great. I’d be disappointed if this was his last fight. I’ve been with him a long time, we had a great run. I’ll support whatever he does,” said Roach. Then there’s the looming possibility of another meeting with Floyd Mayweather Jr. “So far he [Pacquiao] says he’s going to retire no matter what. I might be the one that hopes something happens, maybe Floyd one more time. He’d be healthy and do much better than the first time. I was very disappointed with the first fight. I know Manny can do much better than that. I would love to see that fight one more time,” added Roach. n

ers, said Monday. “We have to be united when it is all said and done…against a Republican vision and candidates who would drive us apart and divide us.” Among young voters (between ages 17 and 29), Bernie Sanders reportedly won 84 percent of the vote (18 percent if the whole Democratic caucus electorate), to Clinton’s 14 percent. Sanders, a 74-year-old self-proclaimed “Democratic socialist,” has prov-

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CALIFORNIA’S high-speed rail, connecting Los Angeles with the San Francisco Bay Area, could take longer to build than previously estimated, and its overall cost is “difficult to predict,” said the head of the highspeed rail authority on Wednesday, Jan. 27. “It may take us a little longer than we said to do this,” rail authority Chairman Dan Richard told the state Assembly transportation committee, not going into detail, according to the Los Angeles Times. A forthcoming update of its business plan for the high-speed bullet train will show a reduction in the estimated cost of $68 billion, Richard added, despite recent delays that have slowed construction. The project is more than two years behind the proposed

schedule the rail authority announced back in 2012 when it expected to start building 29 miles of rail structures from north to south. The work officially began last July, and remains at a slow pace. The oversight hearing was called by Assemblyman Richard Bloom (D-Santa Monica), who described the bullet train as “one of the most complex projects not only in the state but in the nation’s history.” Bloom said construction of the rail system will be “difficult and full of risks,” and added that he believed the project overall “is being managed well.” The hearing was limited to testimony from three officials, two of whom work for transit authority, and a third who is chairman of a peer review panel. In a public comment period after the hearing, several speakers present quickly, sharply criticized the rail project, including

Assemblywoman Patty Lopez (DSan Fernando). Lopez said she had asked rail authority officials to compromise on some of the effects of the bullet train would have on her working-class community, but did not receive any response. Other objections were raised by the Train Riders Assn. of California, farmers and other rural residents in areas affected by the tracks. However, two labor union officials praised the project. Richard and state rail authority Chief Executive Jeff testified against a news story in October 2015 that concluded that California was “highly unlikely to complete an initial operating segment from Burbank to Merced by its 2022 deadline, or to bring the project in on budget.” A Times investigation found that the years remaining before the deadline were not enough

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Fil-Am mother, son charged with…

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smuggle hundreds of thousands of ammunition rounds and parts for assault rifles to the Philippines, authorities said. The indictment cited three instances when Mendoza did not provide the mandatory written notice to freight forwarders that she was shipping ammunition, labeling shipments of .22-caliber ammunition as “household goods,” Inquirer reported. “The weapons shipments charged in the indictments allowed firearm parts and ammu-

nition to leave the United States and travel to the Philippines, where they could have been sold to anyone,” US Attorney Eileen M. Decker said in a statement. Mark Mendoza was charged with conspiracy, three counts of unlawful export of munitions, three counts of export smuggling and one count of money laundering. The publication further reported that he ordered more than $100,000 worth of ammunition and firearm accessories, including parts for AR-15 and M-16 ri-

fles, which are cannot be shipped to the Philippines without an export license from the Department of State, according to the Arms Export Control Act. Mark had the ammunition delivered to his parents’ home in Long Beach. His mother was released on a $10,000 bail bond pending trial. If found guilty, she faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison. If Mark is convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 115 years in federal prison. (Agnes Constante / AJPress)

FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Dateline USa

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

40% of California 5th-graders Fil-Am microbiology student receives scholar award at the 28th CSU Biotechnology Symposium are overweight or obese PALO ALTO, California – Two of every five 5th graders in California’s public schools are overweight or obese, according to 2015 data from the California Department of Education that are now available on Kidsdata.org. All California public school students in grades five, seven, and nine are required to take the Physical Fitness Test, which includes an assessment of body composition. Students are considered overweight or obese if their body composition scores reach beyond the Healthy Fitness Zone, which represents a level of fitness that offers protection against the diseases that result from sedentary living. Not only are the percentages of students who are overweight or obese high in California, the data reveal substantial disparities between ethnicities. Up to 56 percent of Pacific Islander 5th graders for example, were considered overweight or obese—more than double the percentage of Asian American 5th graders. The data also vary widely by county. In some counties, less than 20 percent of 5th graders were considered overweight or obese, but in one, the percentage reached above 50 percent. Nationwide, the childhood

obesity rate has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents over the past 30 years. Today, about one third of children ages 2-19 are overweight or obese in the U.S. Overweight children are at higher risk for a range of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, asthma, and some types of cancer; they also are more likely to stay overweight or obese as adults. California has been a leader in advancing policies to combat childhood overweight and obesity, from banning soft drinks

and unhealthy food in schools to requiring nutrition labeling in chain restaurants. Yet the state continues to battle an obesity epidemic among children. Experts say reducing childhood obesity requires policies that promote equitable access to safe places to play and exercise, frequent opportunities for physical activity in and out of school and affordable healthy foods and beverages . Public policy can make a difference by changing the environment in which children make food choices, live, go to school, and play. (Inquirer.net)

LOS ANGELES — Karl Liboro, a microbiology major at Cal State LA, has been honored with the Howell-CSUPERB Research Scholar Award. Liboro is one of only 12 students in the California State University system to receive the award, which funds promising undergraduate research related to women’s health. The award is offered by the CSU Program for Education and Research in Biotechnology (CSUPERB), in partnership with the Doris A. Howell Foundation for Women’s Health Research. “The Howell-CSUPERB Award will give me the funding and competitive edge necessary to continue my career and to continue working on projects that will not only help improve women’s health, but the health of all individuals,” said Liboro, an Honors College student who resides in Glendale. Working with his mentor, Cal State LA Professor Hyunsook Park, Liboro will conduct research on vulvovaginal candidiasis, commonly known as vaginal yeast infection. The infection is primarily caused by Candida albicans, an opportunistic fungus. An estimated 75 percent of women will have at least one infec-

Karl Liboro

tion in their lifetime. Recurring infection can significantly affect a woman’s quality of life. “Even though there has been strong emphasis on the importance of probiotics in preventing yeast infections, there are few studies to explain how probiotic microorganisms prevent these infections,” explained Liboro, who plans to pursue a career in biomedical sciences. Liboro’s research focuses on the mechanisms by which bacteriocin-like peptides secreted by Lactobacillus bacteria inhibit the biofilm formation of Candida albicans. Park said Liboro’s re-

search may help researchers understand the role of probiotic microorganisms in preventing recurring vaginal yeast infections. Liboro received the CSUPERB Research Scholar Award during the 28th CSU Biotechnology Symposium, which was held at the Hyatt Regency Orange County earlier this month. The symposium aims to make connections between innovative life science research and the impact it has on society, to highlight cutting-edge biotechnologies, and to inspire students for success in the global economy. n

Aquino to receive honorary degree California mayors encourage residents to from Loyola Marymount University reduce carbon footprint through competition

PHILIPPINE President Benigno S. Aquino III is expected to visit Southern California on Wednesday, Feb. 17, where he will receive an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree from Loyola Marymount University. During the invitation-only event, Aquino will be honored by LMU’s president, Timothy Law Snyder. The university has chosen to confer the degree on Aquino “in recognition of his dedication to his country, his integrity, and his embodiment of a Jesuit education,” according to a statement. Aquino, who took office as president in 2010, received a bachelor’s degree in economics from Ateneo de Manila University. He has received six honorary degrees from various institutions including Fordham University in New York, University of the Philippines, Diliman and Centro Es-

Pres. Benigno Aquino III

colar University. The event is being co-sponsored by the School of Education’s Teach for the Philippines Program and the World Policy Institute at LMU.

No further details regarding Aquino’s visit, such the length of his trip and whether he will meet with the Fil-Am community in Los Angeles, have been revealed as of press time. (AJPress)

THE CoolCalifornia Challenge, a competition between California cities to motivate and reward residents for reducing their carbon footprints and build more sustainable communities, just got a little more competitive. With 22 cities vying for the title of “Coolest California City,” nine mayors and city officials upped the stakes, sharing rousing videos to promote the challenge and encourage participation among residents. In the videos, mayors discuss what makes their cities “the Coolest” and offer a range of ideas to improve sustainability in their cities, from mainstream concepts like biking to work to more creative ideas like “No Flush Fridays.” “The CoolCalifornia Challenge is a fun way for cities and residents to band together and see their sustainability efforts rewarded in a tangible way,” said Pamela Wellner, the manager of Climate Change Programs for Energy Upgrade California. “These

mayors have taken the competition to the next level by infusing some humor and creativity into their calls to action. As we kick off a New Year, we hope these videos inspire residents to resolve to cut carbon emissions.” Three additional cities — Richmond, Larkspur and Corte Madera — have already answered the call and are producing videos with their mayors, expected to go live in the coming weeks. Households in participating cities can join the CoolCalifornia Challenge by registering at CAChallenge.org. They can then track energy use and vehicle miles driven, as well as share energy saving tips to earn points for their cities. The city with the highest sustainability points at the end of the challenge will be crowned Coolest California City. Two runner-up cities will be named Cool California City. All participating cities will receive a portion of a $150,000 prize based on the percentage of their points

that will be used to support local sustainability projects. This year’s participating cities include Claremont, San Mateo, Buellton, Indio, Burlingame, Long Beach, Elk Grove, San Carlos, Lynwood, Martinez, South Pasadena, Redwood City, Huntington Beach, San Pablo, Benicia, Corte Madera, Mill Valley, Sausalito, El Cerrito, Fairfax, Larkspur and Richmond. Current standings of the cities can be found at: http://www.CAChallenge.org. The CoolCalifornia City Challenge ends March 30, 2016, and the winning city will be recognized during Earth Week, April 21, 2016. CoolCalifornia Challenge is a partnership between Energy Upgrade California®, the CoolCalifornia.org program at the California Air Resources Board, and the Cool Climate Network at the University of California, Berkeley’s Renewable and Appropriate Energy Laboratory. n

Obama proposes new rules to advance equal pay by Agnes

ConstAnte AJPress

THE Obama administration on Friday, Jan. 29, announced new rules aimed at ensuring equal pay for all American workers. The proposal would require companies with more than 100 employees to annually report to the federal government how much they pay their employees with a breakdown of the employees’ ethnicity, gender and race. Friday’s announcement coincided with the seventh anniversary of the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act, the first bill President Barack Obama signed into law when he took office in 2009. The act makes it easier for employees to challenge unequal pay. “Women are not getting the fair shot that we believe every single American deserves,” Obama said in the proposal announcement. “What kind of example does paying women less set for our sons and daughters?” Obama’s new rules would build on an executive order he issued about two years ago, which required federal contractors to provide salary data for men and women. “Social change never happens overnight,” he said. “It is a slog and there are times when you just have to chip away and chip away...It’s reliant on all of us to keep pushing that boulder up the hill.” Jenny Yang, chairwoman of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, told The New York Times that the rules would

be completed in September and reports would be due one year after. “Too often, pay discrimination goes undetected because of a lack of accurate information about what people are paid,” Yang told the Times. “We will be using the information that we’re collecting as one piece of information that can inform our investigations.” In 2014, women earned 79 cents for every dollar a man earned, the White House reported. The White House Council of Economic Advisers states that the US gender wage gap is 2.5 percent higher than the average developed country. However, Pew Research reported in April that it found the gender pay gap to be less than what the White House claimed. The report stated that women earn 84 percent of what men do, while the wage gap for younger women stands at 93 percent of what men are paid. Compliance with the new rules is expected to cost each employer less than $400 in the first year, according to White House estimates, and several hundred dollars per year after that. Obama is also looking to push Congress to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act, which would provide additional resources to women seeking to challenge pay discrimination. “I don’t think this is an empty move,” Robyn Muncy, interim chair of women’s studies and a history professor at the University of Maryland, said of the new

pay data proposal, according to NBC News. “I think it can have a very galvanizing, conscious-raising effect on people.” Marc Benioff, chief executive of Salesforce.com, who was enlisted by the White House to help make its case for the rules, said that although he never planned on paying women less than men, he found out his company was doing just that after two female workers raised that concern with him, according to the Times. “We’re never going to solve this issue of pay inequality if CEOs like myself and others continue to turn a blind eye to what’s happening in their own corporations,” Benioff said in a conference call organized by the White House, noting he was spending $3 million to eliminate the pay gap at his firm, the Times reported. Not everyone touted the White House’s pay gap logic, however. Other critics say that the metric used by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics is not the most accurate measurement. A new report by Payscale suggests that “men are simply more likely to hold higher-paying jobs, whether it’s because of the industry, job type, or job level.” Obama’s actions on pay equality have also been criticized by Republicans, who say that gender discrimination is already illegal and that extra measures are unnecessary. Additionally, the new rules would require the president to use his executive authority, for which Republicans have further criticized him. n

Longer build, lower cost for CA bullet…

PAGE A3 t

to construct 300 miles of track, bore 36 miles of mountain tunnels, build six train stations, erect high-voltage electrical systems and construct a heavy maintenance facility, based on comments by tunnel engineers, construction experts and geologists not necessarily involved with the project. The story also reported that the agency’s primary consultant, Parsons Brinckerhoff, had submitted a cost estimate in October 2013 that projected a 31 percent increase in the cost of the initial construction segment, and a 5 percent increase in the cost of

the full 500-mile system. The agency’s estimate, a twoyear effort by a team of engineers, was not used when the state issued its 2014 business plan a few months later. Morales told lawmakers the Parsons Brinckerhoff estimate was just a draft, subject to revision and among other studies used for the official public cost estimate. A number of the rail agency’s reports and documents are marked “draft” in large letters, including the written testimony that Richard and Morales read from a witness table at Wednesday’s hearing. “They are hiding behind the

draft stamp,” Assemblyman Jim Patterson (R-Fresno) told reporters after the hearing. Morales testified that part of the $9-billion increase reported by The Times was “based on construction of more miles of track and longer viaducts.” The full documentation behind the Parsons Brinckerhoff cost estimate has yet to be disclosed. Louis Thompson, chairman of a peer review panel mandated under state law, also testified at the hearing, suggesting the project should have significantly closer oversight by a well-funded and long-term branch of the state government. n

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Comelec junks all DQ cases vs Duterte Comelec launches shame campaign vs epal bets by roseTTe

adel

Philstar.com

MANILA—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) First Division on Wednesday, Feb. 3 denied all the disqualification cases against presidential aspirant Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte. In a press conference, Comelec First Division Chair Christian Robert Lim said the body voted unanimously to dismiss all of the four petitions filed against Duterte due to lack of merit. The ruling was signed by Comelec body’s members Lim, Luie Tito Guia and Ma. Rowena Guanzon. Among the petitions junked by the Comelec are those filed by University of the Philippines Student Council Chair John Paulo delas Nieves, broadcaster Ruben Castor, nuisance candidate Elly Pamatong and former senatorial candidate Rizalito David, who is also petitioner in Sen. Grace Poe’s disqualification case, Nieves earlier questioned the

All the disqualification cases filed to cancel the presidential candidacy of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is denied by the Commission on Elections First Division. Philstar.com photo by Geremy Pintolo

validity of Duterte’s substitution for former Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan standard-bearer Martin Diño. The Comelec said, however, that the petitions which challenged Diño’s certificate of candidacy was filed out of time since he was already declared a nui-

sance candidate and withdrew his candidacy. The Comelec added that Diño’s intent to run for president was clear despite his error. Lim said the petitioners may still file a motion for reconsideration to counter the division’s ruling.

Poe eyes Marcos DNA test after polls by Marvin

Philstar.com

MANILA—She’s open to the idea of a DNA test with her longrumored “brother,” Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., but if this is going to happen, it would be done only after the May elections. Speaking at a roundtable interview with editors and reporters of The Star, Sen. Grace Poe revealed that the latest DNA tests conducted on three of her possible relatives in Guimaras have fizzled out. Poe said that the DNA samples taken from the remains of three individuals whose bodies were exhumed were no longer viable because they were in an advanced stage of decomposition. “The samples were not viable. They’re now concentrating on the ones that are alive who have submitted their DNA,” Poe said. She said that this was the reason it took close to a month for the results of the latest testing to come out. A foundling, Poe was left at the steps of a church in Jaro, Iloilo and the identities of her biological par-

ents were never known. Because of this, rumors and conspiracy theories on her parentage cropped up. The two most prominent rumors were that she is related to Marcos by blood and that she is the daughter of her aunt, Rosemarie Sonora. In both instances, the implication was that the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos and Sonora were involved in extramarital relations that resulted in the birth of Poe. The reported relationship between Poe and Marcos has been the subject of friendly banter between the two senators. While the two have refused to take the matter seriously, the rumors persist, prompting Marcos to offer a DNA test with Poe. “Baka nga gawin ko na lang (I just might do it). I’m thankful to Senator Bongbong because he has been very cool about the situation. He’s like ‘Why not?’ He’s willing to do it,” Poe said in jest. Asked why she would not just agree to the test if only to put the rumors to rest, Poe said that she is open to this, but only after the elections.

“Maybe after May 2016,” she said. As for the alleged relationship with Sonora, Poe said that evidence against this theory is strong. She said that there is no reason for her to go through a DNA test with any of the direct relatives of Sonora, specifically her cousin, actress Sheryl Cruz. “I don’t think there is a reason for it. But sometimes it crosses my mind para matapos na (just to get this over with). But you also have to respect the sentiments of some,” Poe said. She pointed out that when she was born in 1968, her aunt was active in show business and had a television show, on top of her films. During that period, Poe said that there was no indication that Sonora was pregnant. “I don’t think she’s my mother. But some people still want to keep the urban legend alive. Maybe my cousin will definitely not give a DNA test. She’s furious about it and I apologize to her for dragging her into this unintentionally,” Poe said.

MANILA—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has launched a “shame campaign” against “epal candidates,” or those who grab attention by putting up unlawful campaign materials during the campaign period. Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista said the poll body would establish a “citizen reporting system” through which the public can send photos of prohibited campaign materials to the Comelec’s official website, Facebook page and Twitter account. “We want the public to take photos of violators and then provide us with details. We will act on them,” he said. According to Bautista, there are “three mortal sins” that candidates and parties should avoid committing. One is posting campaign materials on trees, plants and other places outside of the common poster areas designated by Comelec. Second is the excessive use of plastic and unrecyclable materials and irresponsible disposal of campaign materials. Posting of materials in private properties without the consent of the owners is also illegal. Incumbent officials were also reminded that putting their pho-

tographs and names on Department of Public Works and Highways’ project billboards is strictly prohibited. “‘Monitor spending for elections too’ Senate President Franklin Drilon also urged the Comelec to step up its regulation of election spending before and during the campaign period, which he said has gone out of control. Drilon emphasized that the need to cover not only the expenses of candidates during the official campaign period, but also before it starts because many of the politicians spend a great deal pre-campaign. For the past months, political advertisements of presidential, vice presidential and senatorial candidates have been coming out daily on television and radio when the campaign period is yet to officially start on Feb. 9. Drilon noted that there is a grey area when it comes to regulating election spending before the campaign, which should be addressed by revisiting and updating the country’s election laws. He cited the Supreme Court decision on Comelec vs Penera where it ruled that a person running for a public office would of-

Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista said the poll body would establish a “citizen reporting system” through which the public can send photos of prohibited campaign materials to the Comelec’s official website, Facebook page and Twitter account.

ficially become a candidate at the start of the campaign period. This, he said, is where the problem lies because politicians embark on heavy political ads and campaign promotion to gain popularity among voters before the start of campaign period, fully aware that their spending would eventually be restricted when the campaign proper kicks off. (Sheila Crisostomo, Marvin Sy and Rhodina Villanueva/Philstar.com)

OTS, Aviation Security Group personnel warned if ‘tanim-bala’ scam continues by

TeTch Torres-Tupas Inquirer.net

THE Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) has threatened to file counter-charges against members of the Office for Transport Security (OTS) and the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (PNP-ASG) if “tanim bala” (bullet planting) incidents would continue at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia). “Pag hindi sila tumigil, mapipilitan na kami na magsampa ng kaso at rumesbak,” PAO Chief Persida Rueda-Acosta told reporters after the preliminary investigation on the case against overseas Filipino Worker (OFW) Gina Maliwat. She said they will file a complaint for planting of evidence.

“Nakakapagod na. Mga tagaPAO pagod na, mga prosecutors pagod na. Nakakatawa na ang bansa natin,” Acosta said. To date, Acosta said 32 cases of tanim-bala have been dismissed by the prosecutors. Maliwat, in her counter-affidavit which was sworn before the Philippine Consular Office in Macau, said she passed the initial X-ray screening at Naia Terminal II, but it was during the final screening that she was told that a bullet was found in the outer pocket of her shoulder bag. “Respondent never dealt with firearms or ammunition. She does not even know how to handle a gun. She never believed in superstitions or amulets. She has absolutely no intention at all to possess the alleged bullet found

inside her brown shoulder bag,” Maliwat’s manifestation, submitted to the DOJ through Acosta stated. Maliwat added that she has no intention to possess or handle bullets. She said: “I am a mere domestic helper whose dream/intent is to work abroad to help support my family financially.” The case against Maliwat has been submitted for resolution. Meanwhile, in another tanimbala case which was filed by American missionary Lane Michael White, his camp already submitted a reply to the counteraffidavits filed by the OTS and PNP-ASG. The DOJ has scheduled another preliminary investigation for Feb. 10.

february 5-11, 2016 • NOrCaL aSIaN JOurNaL

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OpiniOn

Features

Broken vow

WITH only five months left before he steps down from office, President Benigno Aquino III has yet to fulfill one of his campaign promises in the 2010 presidential election: to bring resolve to the Maguindanao massacre. Who could ever forget that fateful day on November 23, 2009, when a private army (allegedly led by the Ampatuan clan) killed a 58-person convoy, on their way to file the certificate of candidacy of then Buluan vice mayor Esmael “Toto” Mangudadatu. The news made international headlines and was tagged as one of the most heinous election-related crimes in history. With 32 of the victims killed during the carnage identified as media practitioners, the incident is easily recognizable as the single worst act of extrajudicial killing and reiterating that the Philippines is indeed a dangerous country for journalists. These 32 victims are among 2,297 journalists and media staff who have been killed in the last 25 years. In its recent report, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) said that these journalists were killed for doing nothing more than trying to inform the world about war, revolution, crime and corruption. The report added that Iraq topped the list of the most dangerous countries for journalists with 309 killings. The Philippines ranked second with 146 killings, but IFJ underscored the “recurring finding of our reports that there are many more killed in peacetime situations than in war-stricken countries.” “The Ampatuan Massacre remains the key focal point of the Philippines media’s battle with impunity, but it must be stressed that the killing of journalists didn’t start on November 23, 2009, nor

did it end there. At least 40 journalists have been killed since. Since 1986, when the People Power uprising against the Marcos dictatorship brought democratic institutions back to the Philippines, 180 media workers have been killed. And as the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP) continues to point out, it is inevitably only the gunmen who are pursued,” IFJ noted. On its sixth anniversary in November last year, Maguindanao Gov. Esmael Mangudadatu, who lost his wife, some relatives and supporters, expressed his disappointment that six years after the killings, the court had yet to decide on the case. “It’s been six long, agonizing years. Where is justice?” Mangudadatu said. The Aquino administration asserted that it remains committed to bringing justice to the victims of the Maguindanao massacre and their families but speeding up the trial solely rests on the judiciary. The Dept. of Justice gave a marching order for the swift resolution of the 2009 Maguindanao Massacre. It directed state prosecutors to oppose any dilatory tactics and vowed to have convictions, particularly on the principal accused, by 2016 before President Aquino steps down. “Make no mistake, we are very concerned also. We would certainly like to have the trial of the Ampatuan case hastened as well and, in fact, we do want to see a decision before the President leaves office. But is it something within our control? That

Editorial

Philstar.com photo

is not within our control,” Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said responding to criticism about the slow-paced trial of the case. The outcome of the Maguindanao massacre trials will dictate whether the Philippines is a country has learned its lesson to put an end to violence and impunity—or one that is condemned to repeat the same mistakes. When justice is delayed, is justice denied? This

pithy aphorism seems to be fitting for the relatives of the victims of the 2009 Maguindanao killings. Six years later, the faltering steps for truth and justice have brought more than 200 people implicated in the massacre, topped by members of the Ampatuan clan. Some have been arrested, others were arraigned. But for the victim’s family, justice remains elusive until a conviction is passed. (AJPress)

Iowa Surprises: Cruz beats Trump, Clinton and Sanders in a virtual tie ThE long race to the White house has started with the caucuses in Iowa on Monday, Feb. 1. The election in this state has defied all conventional wisdom, polls and political pundits’ analyses and fearless forecasts. Voter turnout was reported to have broken records, revealing voter enthusiasm in both parties. Republican caucuses Frontrunner Donald Trump was crushed by Texas Senator Ted Cruz — the ultra-conservative candidate who pundits, the polls, and Trump himself prophesied to have a dying campaign after he was pummeled in the FOX News-sponsored Iowa debate that Trump decided not to participate in because of his feud with the network. The missed appearance might have hurt Trump, who decided instead to stage an event -- at the same time of the debate -- that he said would raise money for veterans Many believe, including Trump himself in hindsight, that this was a misstep on his part because he ended up losing the chance to convince the people of Iowa that he has better vision and platform than his competitors. Trump might have ducked having to respond to questions examining his positions, statements and actions in the past, but with the unique political process of caucuses in Iowa, he might have lost voters to Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who was just a percentage point lower than Trump, despite

Commentary

RigobeRto tiglao PRESIDENT Benigno S. Aquino 3rd spent about P50 billion of taxpayers’ money on his campaign to get the insane Bangsamoro Basic Law enacted into law, documents as well as sources in government disclosed. The money was spent on efforts to convince the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) to agree to the BBL, generate support from traditional Muslim politicians and for Congress to pass it into law before Aquino steps down from power. “With that kind of money, we thought BBL was unstoppable,” a source in government said. “But even the legislators we thought were already deep in our pockets found the Mamasapano massacre a perfect excuse to withdraw their support,” he added. What’s P50 billion? Consider that as a 20 percent equity for a project, which means it could generate a further P250 billion. With that amount, we would have enough funds to build, for example, two MRT-3s in Metro

his not so impressive rating in the polls before the Iowa caucuses. Cruz finished with 28 percent The Fil-Am of the votes, Trump with 24 per- Perspective cent and Rubio 23 percent. All the other GOP candidates got single digit votes. This result proves that the caucuses might have just reinforced gel SantoS-ReloS the fact that Republicans in Iowa were looking for candidates who share their conservative principles and values. This triumphed over the birther issue raised by Trump against Cruz, not the Trump’s star power. During the caucuses, voters actually openly discuss with other voters why they are voting for their selected candidate, and may even sway supporters of the other candidates to change their votes in favor of their candidate, or convince the undecided to join them in caucusing for their candidate. Democratic caucuses Who would have thought that 74-year-old Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders would be in a virtual tie with frontrunner former Secretary of State hillary Clinton? Just a year ago, he was polling only 7 percent versus Clinton’s 68 percent. On caucus night in Iowa, Sanders and Clinton were in a virtual tie, with less than one percent difference between them: Clinton got 49.9, while Sanders got 49.6.

Because of the tightness of the race, officials resorted to coin toss, a practice allowed by rules for Democratic precincts. Des Moines Register reported on at least two instances of decisions by a coin toss, all breaking for Clinton. Clinton might have been declared the winner in Iowa, but this could still change, and Sanders might still turn out to have won in this state. The Clinton victory was announced based on results from 1,682 of 1,683 precincts. One the result of precinct — precinct 42 — was reported missing, and according to the Des Moines Register, “Votes from one precinct in Iowa were still missing Tuesday morning, and Democrats from that neighborhood scrambled to find party officials so that they could report their tally: Bernie Sanders won by 2 delegates over hillary Clinton.” heading to New hampshire, both candidates have their own respective bragging rights. Clinton touts her experience and pragmatism, which she claims will make her beat whomever will be the Republican Party’s nominee for president. however, Clinton needs the support of the young and first time voters who overwhelmingly support Sanders for his progressive principles, and

his consistent stand in his fight against income inequality, and the power of the richest of the rich Americans and corporations over the people in Washington, to the detriment of the 99 percent of the population: hardworking middle class and poor Americans. Clinton also needs to work on her other deficit — and that is the trust factor. Those who are not in her camp believes she has been in bed with Wall Street, corporations and big businesses who have contributed heavily to her campaign and paid her a lot of money for speeches. The Benghazi controversy and her email issues also add to this trust problem of Clinton. On the other hand, Sanders has proven that even without help from Wall Street and big businesses, he can win because of the help and support from the grassroots who believe in his cause. The Sanders campaign has exceeded all expectations and raised more money, all coming from ordinary voters with an average of $27 contribution each to help catapult him to be the next president of the United States. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com, https://www.facebook.com/Gel. Santos.Relos

Aquino spent at least P50B of our money for his BBL fantasy Manila, establish a Manila-toBatangas commuter hourly train, or two international airports. What a criminal waste of taxpayers’ money then that it was spent on a drive to get the BBL passed, all because of this President’s naiveté that the MILF would lay down its arms, the hubris that he could ask the body politic whatever he wanted, and megalomaniac greed that he would win the Nobel Peace Prize that eluded his mother. The breakdown of the P50 billion that went down the drain along with his BBL delusion is as follows: First, the P10 billion hijacked from the 2011 Budget through the so-called Disbursement Allocation Plan (DAP), which according to a Malacañang October 2011 press release would be used for what it termed “Comprehensive Peace and Intervention Package.” Some P8.6 billion of this was used to fund the “Transition Investment Support Fund.” This was ostensibly to “fast-track the Autonomous Region for Muslim Mindanao’s (ARMM) development,” to prepare for the setting up of the Bangsamoro. In reality,

these were pork-barrel type of funds given to both MILF-linked, as well as traditional, Muslim leaders to get support for the BBL. The TISP was unusually huge that even ARMM politicians could not come up with enough projects to justify the money they were receiving, that Aquino scolded them in a speech in Davao City on June 2012: “Gusto ko ho sanang maibalita sa inyo ‘yung mga accomplishments. Pero dito po sa status, as of May 31, 2012, napakarami po dito ay ‘not yet started’ or ‘ongoing,” (“I had wanted to report the accomplishments of the Transition Investment Support Plan. But based on its status report as of May 31, 2012, so many of these have not been started or are reported as ongoing.”) The P10 million individual checks were released directly to each governor and mayor in ARMM, and sources said these politicians had little experience in inventing ghost projects of that scale, that they could easily be charged by the Ombudsman with malversation. “You have to understand the situation in 2012, Aquino was so popular

and had so much political support that they thought he had the power to distribute those checks,” a politician from Mindanao claimed. Second, P30 billion in porkbarrel funds given in 2014 and 2015 to a select group of members of Congress for them to rush the hearings over the BBL. Given the Supreme Court ruling in November 2013 declaring the porkbarrel unconstitutional, the funds were disguised as expenditures under the Bottom-up Budgeting (BUB) system. In 2015 for instance, BUB funds for Camarines Sur’s 3rd district totaled P119 million, according to documents from the Department of Budget. The district representative is vice presidential candidate Leni Robredo, who had voted for the BBL. Third, about P2 billion was coursed through the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP), funded both through the DAP and OPAPP, ostensibly for the setting up of “peace centers, Pamayanan Program, strategic roads,” and shelter in “conflict-areas.” Sources said, in reality, these were used to bribe MILF communities to

strictly keep the peace and support the BBL. Fourth, some P8 billion were sourced from DAP allocations and the regular budget for porkbarrel type of projects and other infrastructure undertaken by the Department of Public Works and highways, the Department of Agriculture and other agencies, with Muslim and MILF leaders directing them where those projects must be located. A huge component of the funding for the BBL, though, may not have come from taxpayers’ money. Various sources have claimed, although I have not received confirmation of this at this point, that the Malaysians gave P10 billion in funding both to Aquino and the MILF to agree and work together on getting the BBL passed into law. The funding source, according to one claim, was from the $700 million that was transferred from the Malaysian sovereign wealth fund 1 Malaysian Development Berhad (1MDB) to the personal account of Prime Minister Najib Razak, according to findings by the Malaysian authorities. however, Malaysian Attorney General Mohamed Apandi Ali two weeks

ago cleared Najib, claiming that the money was a donation from Saudi Arabia’s royal family. Last week, though, the Swiss Attorney General shocked Malaysia — and the world — by issuing an official statement that $4 billion had been stolen from Malaysian state-companies linked to 1MDB, and transferred to Swiss accounts owned by former Malaysian public officials. Could that have been the biggest source of grease money used in the Philippines to try to enact the BBL into law? I have written in many columns that the BBL will ultimately create a Muslim independent state at the heart of Mindanao, which could declare later on that it prefers to be part of nation whose state religion is Islam — Malaysia. * When Malaysian Prime Minister Najib was here in 2014 to witness the signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro (CAB), which the BBL was to implement, was he merely a mediator, or the architect and financier of the scheme? (ManilaTimes.net) [*Paragraph 3.(1) Part I of Malaysia’s Federal Constitution: “Islam is the religion of the Federation.”]

The views expressed by our Op-Ed contributors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect the predilection of the editorial board and staff of Asian Journal.

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • febRUARy 5-11, 2016

SOUTH BEACH NEW HOMES

AFFECTED. A head of a nongovernment organization on Tuesday sounded the alarm that many children may be affected by the possibility of renewed radicalism in Mindanao following the “death” of the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) in the 16th Congress. During a forum held in Quezon City, Philippine Legislators’ Committee on Population and Development (PLCPD) executive director Romeo Dongeto said children would be the sector most vulnerable with regard to the renewed conflict in the region. Inquirer.net photo

FOI, anti-dynasty bills good as dead in 16th Congress by Marc Jayson

cayabyab

Inquirer.net

PERTINENT pieces of legislation like the anti-political dynasty bill, freedom of information, and even the anti-discrimination bill would have to be put on the back burner for now. This as the House of Representatives leadership would focus on passing bills which are already set for third reading approval, Majority leader Neptali Gonzales II said. “Kung magkaroon kami ng quorum, unahin ko ‘yung third reading. I would rather devote time of the plenary to bills which we can reasonably pass,” Gonzales said. Even the proposed Bangsamoro basic law (BBL), which was renamed the Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Area of Responsibility, was declared dead by the House leadership. The BBL trumped all other debates on the floor as it went through the period of amendments and debate under second reading, but the lack of quorum and a diminished confidence from lawmakers derailed its prompt passage. Congress lost confidence on the BBL especially after the Mamasapano incident, a botched antiterror raid in January 2015 that escalated into a firefight between Special Action Force (SAF) cops and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) fighters. The BBL would have implemented the peace deal with the

MILF. The House is rushing in passing bills on third reading with two session days left before it goes on break on Feb. 5 for the campaign period of 2016 election bets. When Congress resumes on May 23, it would focus its time canvassing the elections results in the presidential elections. On Monday, Feb. 1, the House plenary passed at least four pertinent pieces of legislation when it managed to muster a quorum – a bill institutionalizing and strengthening the public-private partnership; a bill declaring large-scale agricultural smuggling as an economic sabotage; a bill institutionalizing the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program; and a bill extending by two years the life of the Martial Law Human Rights Victims Claims Board. Other pertinent bills which are still under second reading would have to be refiled in the 17th Congress, or under the next administration. One such bill is the Freedom of Information (FOI) bill, which has been languishing in Congress for 28 years since it was filed in the 8th Congress. The FOI was approved by the public information committee on Nov. 2014, after a year of committee deliberations. It was approved by the appropriations committee for funding on March 2015. But the bill failed to reach the plenary, as it was trumped by the

BBL debates. The closest thing the FOI saw the light of day was in the 14th Congress in 2010, when it hurdled the bicameral conference and was supposed to be ratified in the House. But the lack of quorum eventually killed the FOI bill. Meanwhile, the anti-political dynasty bill managed to reach the plenary for debates in May 2014, after it was approved by the suffrage and electoral reforms committee in November 2013. The bill seeks to prohibit the proliferation of political dynasts in Congress. The original version of the measure intends to put a dynasty cap of one relative per politician. But Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr., who himself has relatives in elective positions, wanted the bill to be amended to allow at least two relatives in public office. He also said the bill that would be passed would allow politicians’ relatives to run in other jurisdictions and get away with it. The original dynasty cap of one family member in an elective position was criticized on the floor for laying off at least 180 members of the 290-strong chamber. Meanwhile, a dynasty cap of at least two family members in politics would affect only 60 of 290 members. Belmonte had wanted to pass the anti-political dynasty bill on second reading before it went on sie die break in June 2015, but Congress failed to do so.

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NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016

Journal

Your Immigration Solution Atty. RobeRt Reeves And nAncy MilleR BEING convicted of a crime that immigration law categorizes as an aggravated felony is devastating. The relief available to a non-citizen in this situation is extremely limited. An immigrant may face removal even if he has lived here most of his life and even if the crime categorized as an aggravated felony is neither aggravated nor a felony under state law. Under subsection (F) of the Immigration & Nationality Act, a crime of violence for which the term of imprisonment is at least 1 year is an aggravated felony. In a recent case, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals issued a decision that narrowed the definition of which crimes can be considered an aggravated felony as a crime of violence. Hector Ramirez was convicted under California Penal Code §273a(a) and sentenced to more than 1 year in prison. The Immigration Judge held that his conviction was an aggravated felony as a crime of violence and the Board of Immigration Appeals upheld that decision. Ramirez timely appealed to the 9th Circuit. The 9th Circuit held that §273a(a) is not a categorical crime of violence because it is broader than the generic federal definition in 18 U.S.C. §16. It also found that the statute is not divisible. Thus, the court found that the conviction under that statute is not an aggravated felony. The court explained that, in order to assess whether a state conviction is an aggravated felony, it must employ the “categorical approach” to determine whether the state offense matches the “generic” federal definition of the relevant offense - which is 18 U.S.C. §16(a) or (b) here. This is accomplished by “comparing the elements of the statute of conviction with a federal definition of the crime to determine whether

Ninth Circuit continues to narrow Business News which crimes are aggravated Covered California offers to help consumers felony crimes of violence conduct proscribed by the statute is broader than the generic federal definition”. As the court further explained, “in making this comparison, we must rely exclusively on the elements of the two crimes, ‘[b]ecause we examine what the state conviction necessarily involved, not the facts underlying the case, [and so] must presume that the conviction rested upon nothing more than the least of th[e] acts’ criminalized.’ We then determine whether even those acts are encompassed by the generic federal offense.” As the court further discussed, “if the federal generic offense is not itself a crime, but rather a classification of crimes, like crimes[s] of violence, then we also compare the crime of conviction with other crimes determined to fall within that classification. If, after conducting this categorical analysis, we conclude that the state statute of conviction criminalizes more conduct than the federal generic offense, then the state conviction does not fall within the federal definition of crime of violence for immigration purposes.” The DHS had argued that the statute was a divisible statute and should be held to be a crime of violence under a “modified categorical approach” analysis. The court, in addressing this argument, stated that a divisible statute lists, in essence, several different crimes. If at least one of those crimes matches the generic version, a court must determine which crime the defendant was convicted of by looking at various documents of conviction to determine whether the alien was convicted of a set of elements that falls within the generic definition. As the court stated, the critical distinction is that while indivisible statutes may contain multiple, alternative means of committing the offense, only divisible statutes contain multiple alternative elements of function-

ally separate crimes. The key question here is whether a jury would have to be unanimous in finding those separate elements. In turning to CPC §273a(a), the court held that the statute criminalizes conduct that would not necessarily involve the affirmative use of force, including passive, negligent conduct. As such, it is not a categorical match with the federal generic statute. The court further concluded that the various parts of CPC §273a(a) constitute separate means of committing a single offense. Therefore, the court concluded that CPC §273a(a) is an indivisible statute and is not a categorical match with 18 U.S.C. §16 and is not a crime of violence under the aggravated felony definition in the Immigration & Nationality Act. The court has addressed the issue of crime of violence aggravated felonies several times in the recent past. Therefore, many people who were previously ordered deported may be able to have their cases reopened as a result of these changes in law. Of course, it is best to bring an experienced and knowledgeable immigration lawyer on board while the criminal case is ongoing to work with the criminal defense lawyer toward a result that is positive from both a criminal defense and an immigration standpoint. ***

Atty. Reeves has represented clients in numerous landmark immigration cases that have set new policies regarding INS action and immigrants’ rights. His offices are located in Pasadena, Irvine, San Francisco, Las Vegas and Makati City. Telephone: (800) 795-8009 E-mail: immigration@rreeves.com Website: www.rreeves.com. *** The analysis and suggestions offered in this column do not create a lawyer-client relationship and are not a substitute for the personalized representation that is essential to every case. (Advertising Supplement)

‘cross the finish line’ as interest surges prior to the final weekend of open enrollment SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Due to a last-minute rush for health coverage, Covered California announced Friday that it would keep the doors open for consumers who start the application process but are unable to complete their enrollment last Sunday, Jan. 31. The announcement follows a surge of enrollment that saw tens of thousands of consumers enroll in health insurance plans this week and that left certified enrollers with even more applications to file before the Jan. 31 deadline. “Our top priority is making sure consumers who are trying to get health insurance get the time and assistance they need,” said Covered California Executive Director Peter V. Lee. “Covered California knows that

health care coverage is too important, and people should not be turned away just because they get caught up in a wave of lastminute shoppers.” Lee said consumers who start their enrollment process, or make an appointment, by midnight Jan. 31 will have until midnight

Feb. 6 to complete the application as long as they are working with a Certified Insurance Agent, Certified Enrollment Counselor, Certified Plan-Based Enroller or Service Center representative at Covered California. “Anyone who does not have

u PAGE CJ4

Five-year average growth best since 1970s: PH primed for inclusive growth by Prinz

P. Magtulis Philstar.com

MANILA — The best five-year economic expansion since the Marcos era puts the Philippines in a position to tackle the challenge of making growth felt by the poor, the chief economist of the Department of Finance (DOF) said. “Inclusive growth will continue to be a pressing socio-economic issue,” Finance Undersecretary Gil Beltran said in an economic bulletin last Friday, Jan. 29. “To sustain economic growth, more investment in infrastructure such as in power and transportation should be mobilized,” he added. A little more than a quarter of Filipinos are considered poor

despite growth hitting 5.8 percent last year, among the fastest in Southeast Asia, separate data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showed. The 2015 growth figure, although slower than projected and lower than in 2014, brought the five-year average to 6.2 percent and capped what the Aquino administration said was the best economic performance since the late 1970s. Beltran said foundations are set to make growth more inclusive or be felt by a larger population. “The Philippines (are) among those that have the strongest growth prospects,” he said. “Strong macroeconomic fundamentals – such as wider fiscal space and tamed inflation – pro-

vide authorities room to maneuver in countering economic shocks,” he added. The manufacturing sector has also been robust, Beltran said, helping create more jobs for unskilled workers, especially to micro-, small- and medium enterprises (MSMEs). MSMEs account for 97 percent of firms operating in the country. Aside from this, government social programs – such as conditional cash transfers (CCT) – should continue to be expanded to provide safety nets to the poor. “The country has already laid out the foundations of micro-finance and micro-insurance and has expanded the CCT program, made possible by a larger fiscal space,” Beltran said. n

FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

The Metamorphosis

ErniE D. DELfin (Part 2 of 2)

“POLITICS is not a bad profession. If you succeed there are many rewards, if you disgrace yourself you can always write a book.” - Ronald Reagan The Philippines’ socio-political circus that also started a few months ago promises to give the entire nation more fun, comic relief and millions of campaign cash to influence voters to elect them into office. I just hope and pray that the election day in May would just be as entertaining and fun — but not as bloody and deadly as in past elections in the country. Like in the US, the Philippines will also be electing her president for a six-year term with no re-election. The voters will also be electing 12 of 24 candidates, congressmen, governors, provincial board members, mayors and their council members. As of press time, the Supreme Court is hearing the oral arguments of the appeal filed by

Community Journal

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

Politicians provide great entertainment, excellent source of revenues for businesses Grace Poe-Llamanzares on the COMELEC’s ruling disqualifying her as a candidate for Presidenty based on the legal dispute about her being a natural born Filipino and her 10-year residency in the Philippines, as required by the 1987 Constitution. Before the end of this month, the Supreme Court is expected to issue the final verdict. Another colorful candidate is Davao Mayor Duterte, whose unconventional “kanto boy” verbal assaults of killing all drug pushers and criminals are resonating with millions of Filipinos, attracting a lot of followers who are also “sick and tired” of criminal elements lording many parts of the Philippines. Duterte’s running mate for Vice President is Senator Alan Cayetano. Another lady presidential candidate is the feisty and equally entertaining Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago who lost to Fidel Ramos after the term of Pres. Cory Aquino. Her VP running mate is Senator Bongbong Marcos. I don’t think Senator Miriam has a chance to become president but Bongbong has a shot of winning simply because Filipinos have short memories and are a

forgiving people. Added to that are the billions of pesos stashed away to help him and his family sanitize the Marcos name. Another candidate is the very controversial Vice President Jejomar Binay, satiritically called the “Obama of the Philippines,” was alleged to have become a multi-billionaire despite his poor beginnings due to massive corruption from the time he was appointed as Officer-in-Charge of Makati City by Pres. Cory Aquino. Despite months of investigations in the Senate against him for his alleged massive graft and corruption practices—which he completely ignored and never answered—his popularity among the common people did not suffer much. His VP running mate is former Senator Gregorio Honasan, and their team is called the Bi-Hon ticket. Last but not the necessary the least is the one anointed by President Aquino, former Senator and DILG Secretary Mar Roxas who despite being the administration bet, is still lagging in the surveys behind Poe and Binay. Without an ounce of charisma, Roxas appears to be not authentic, trying very hard to be “Mr. Palengke”

because of elitist image unlike Binay. What happens in the next two to three months will determine who will be fighting it out to the end. His VP running mate is Congresswoman Leni Robredo, the widow of the very popular and charismatic DILG Robredo of Naga City. The Liberal Party has the Ro-Ro ticket In addition to the Poe Disqualification (DQ) Case that is now in the Supreme Court, there is also a DQ against Duterte. My fearless prediction is that Poe will be eventually disqualified whereas Duterte will overcome his DQ case and will make him a much stronger candidate, fighting head on against mega wealthy candidates Binay and Roxas.

My prediction, hope and prayer is that Duterte should become the next president, to make the country more peaceful and less corrupt, cleaner and with less traffic that will cumulatively lead to more prosperity for all and not just the 60 or so families that own the Philippines (that include many monosyllable tycoon whose last names like: Go, Wa, Weng, Po Tan Yu). My alternative choice would be Mar Roxas with his running mate, as he appears to be clean, honest and has higher integrity with a better grasp of international politics and business than any of his opponents. On a related note, I have a request, prayer and challenge to all Filipino voters who are given

wads of cash or a case of beer with pulutans by the candidates or their leaders to buy their votes: “Receive it with a smile, but do not vote for them!” Most likely it is not the candidates’ money anyway, but the taxpayers! The next three months will be very exciting and interesting to determine the next leaders in the Philippines, a forsaken country that is still searching for her place in the sun, since 1946, exactly 70 years ago this year, when the Americans granted the country its Independence Day on the Fourth of July like in the US. Abangan! Stay tuned! *** Email columnist at: ernie.delfin@gmail.com Blog: http://ed-metamorphosis.blogspot.com; Website: www.gkerc.org

What makes you deportable

The CTV Files Atty. LiLLi B. BAcuLi THE power to give, take away, and deport. The United States does not welcome you with open arms. It allows non-citizens entry into the United States, under certain conditions. When these conditions are broken, you can expect nothing but the full force of the United States government through the Department of Homeland Security to bear down on you. Until you are a fullfledged US citizen, you may be deportable. It all starts with the Notice to Appear (NTA). The NTA is the charging document issued by an authorized agent of the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to noncitizens who the government believes are inadmissible or removable. The NTA is issued to place a noncitizen in a full removal proceeding before an immigration judge, who will determine whether the noncitizen is to be removed or allowed to remain in the United States. Who Can Issue an NTA? Various officials within DHS are empowered to issue NTAs in different circumstances. The US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which is an arm of DHS that conducts investigations and enforcement and removal operations, may issue NTAs. The US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) may also issue an NTA when it finds a noncitizen has not complied with regulations governing admission or maintaining lawful status after admission. The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) may also issue NTAs. CBP operates primarily at designated ports of entry and manages customs, immigration,

The Kite Runner Prof. EnriquE M. SoriAno (Part 1 of 2)

“FIGHTING multinationals was very tough. At first, everyone thought I was crazy. They told me, how would I survive this? True enough, it’s by the grace of God that I’m still here in the toothpaste industry after 20 years. God is good,” – Cecilio K. Pedro In our fast-paced, hectic world we all need a daily dose of faith, hope and love. Stories of heroic struggle against odds, survival and eventual triumph have always inspired people, given them hope, courage to fight, and egged them on to persevere. When you read inspirational rags-to-riches stories, you’ll start to see a few common threads. Hard work, passion, determination, and drive are all common elements of these stories. Surprisingly, obstacles, failure, and incredible odds are also elements of these stories. In almost every case, the main character of the story would never have been expected to achieve so much in a single lifetime. These individuals, however, overcame tough odds, surpassed difficult obstacles, and laughed in the face of failure. “Things aren’t always what they seem.” If you have faith, you just need to trust that every outcome is always to your advantage. You might not know it until some time later. I am sure Cecilio Pedro’s story would ignite your never-say-die spirit and inspire you to become all that you can be. His company, Lamoiyan Corporation, is the manufacturer of Hapee toothpaste, the first homegrown toothpaste in the Philippines. I first had the opportunity to exchange notes with Cecilio more than a decade ago when he was our speaker in an ATENEO MBA Roundtable meeting with fellow Professors. Then a little more than a year ago, we had the rare opportunity to share sto-

security, and agricultural inspection duties. CBP makes thousands of determinations daily, concerning the admissibility of arriving noncitizens. Below is a discussion on examples of what might trigger the USCIS, ICE or CBP to issue an NTA putting you in removal proceedings. Inadmissible: When you are not allowed to enter. Nikolai is a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) who was admitted to the US in 1970. In 2000, he was convicted for 2 DUI convictions and petty theft. Recently, he took a vacation outside of the US for a few weeks. Upon his return, CBP took him aside and issued him an NTA for being an “inadmissible alien.” Deportable: When you are getting thrown out of the country. Jennifer (also an LPR) was convicted of 2 counts of possession of marijuana, 2 counts of being under the influence of marijuana. She is currently out on bail for her 4th case in a span of 12 months, for resisting arrest, public indecency, and being under the influence of a controlled substance. She has just recently been issued an NTA alleging that she is “deportable.” The Filing of an Application May be Trigger an NTA. In a third scenario, Marco has been living under the radar for 20 years and finally decided on filing for citizenship, without first consulting with an experienced immigration attorney. At the interview, he is shown a record of conviction for DUI that he had forgotten. Worse, there were several misdemeanor theft convictions from 10 years ago that he had also forgotten. Marco is scheduled for a second interview, and he is panicking as to what might happen. In either of these scenarios, Nikolai, Jennifer, and Marco run the risk of being removed (deported) from the US because of their convictions, notwithstand-

ing their LPR status, and their long-term residence in the United States. A Criminal Conviction’s Negative Impact on Immigration Status. The Record of Conviction (ROC) details an individual’s criminal history – his/her arrest, what s/he plead to, and the final judgment/sentence. The relief(s) available to an individual facing removal/deportation proceedings will depend largely on the record of conviction. Not every criminal conviction will result in deportation and not every deportation proceeding will lead to an order of deportation. Nevertheless, certain commission of crimes will render a non-citizen inadmissible or deportable, and will run the risk of being placed in deportation proceedings. An individual should act quickly and consult both with a criminal attorney and with an experienced criminal immigration attorney who handles deportation defense, to mitigate the negative consequences of a criminal conviction to his/her immigration status. It is important to be informed and know your options. An experienced immigration firm or attorney will be able to help you understand the options available to you under the evolving immigration laws. *** Atty. Lilli Berbano Baculi is an associate attorney with Chua Tinsay & Vega, A Professional Legal Corporation (CTV) - a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento and Philippines. The information presented in this article is for general information only and is not, nor intended to be, formal legal advice nor the formation of an attorney-client relationship. Call or e-mail CTV for an in-person or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (619) 955-6277; (415) 4958088; (916) 449-3923; lbaculi@ctvattys. com. For general information visit www. chuatinsayvega.com.

Faith and Pinoy pride: Outperforming and outhinking the giants ries when we were both invited as resource speakers in a Family Business Conference at AIM. Knowing the man up close and listening intently to his inspiring story gave me goose bumps in a positive way and today I want to share his story. Reflecting upon it, the key to success is the owning of the family’s devotion to the business, its resilience in coping with disappointment, and the intensity of its long-term commitment to the business. That in a nutshell best characterizes the country’s Toothpaste King. It is my fervent hope that family business owners and visionaries can learn so many lessons about Cecilio’s values, faith, tenacity and vision for his company. Cecilio Kwok Pedro is an entrepreneur who made it to the top after his failure back in 1985. His principle is much grounded and to quote this man of humility, he once said, “We are competing against the giants. Without faith and without the intervention of the Divine, it is really difficult to survive in this industry.” Twenty-five years ago, people thought Cecilio Pedro was crazy for competing head-on with global toothpaste brands Colgate and Close Up. Faith will give you courage, courage will give you faith Before he went head-to-head with Colgate and Close Up, the two multinational toothpaste brands were Pedro’s only customers. His first company, Aluminum Container Inc., sold aluminum toothpaste tubes to these foreign firms from 1978 to 1985. “At that time, I was thinking that toothpaste is something that everyone uses. And multinational firms will be here for the long term, so I thought it was a safe business,” he said. All was going well for his company until plastic toothpaste tubes were invented. Both Col-

gate and Close Up decided to switch to plastic tubes in 1985, forcing Pedro to close shop. “I never thought that they would switch to plastic tubes. My business got in trouble when they left,” he lamented. Relying on a few customers was Pedro’s biggest mistake yet. Money stopped coming in, and he was left with millions of aluminum tubes. Deeply mired in debt, he could have committed suicide had it not been because of his deep faith in God’s power and mercy. He turned his crisis into opportunity when he opted to compete with Colgate despite its being a multinational. With faith, guts and hard work, he put up a “David vs. Goliath” type of fight. When his sales started to dent Colgate’s, they offered to buy him out but he answered, “I don’t think you can afford my price.” Lamoiyan has now captured 30% of the market and still growing. Now, Hapee toothpaste tubes and sachets are selling like hotcakes in the Philippines, making his company, Lamoiyan Corporation, the country’s first homegrown toothpaste empire. (sorianoasia@gmail.com) (To be continued) *** Prof. Soriano is an ASEAN Family Business Advisor, Book Author, Executive Director of Asean-based Consulting group, Wong + Bernstein Advisory and Program Director for Real Estate and the former Chair of the Marketing Cluster of the ATENEO Graduate School of Business. He is slated to deliver a talk on Philippine Business and Franchising Opportunities. The first talk is in NY on Feb 1 at the Philippine Consulate and Boston on Feb 4 at the Harvard Campus and in LA. The talk is organized by the Philippine Consulate in New York, in coordination with the Bagong Kulturang Pinoy (bkpinc.org), the Harvard Philippine Forum, TFC with Asian Journal as media partner. For those interested to attend, pls email nzuelke@gmail. com. Prof Soriano’s business articles can also be accessed at www.Faminbusines.com.

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Immigration Corner Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ DEAR Atty. Gurfinkel: I received my green card through my employer’s petition, but the priority date on my petition retrogressed (went backwards) before I was able to bring my family from the Philippines. I have now been waiting several years, and the priority date is moving forward so slowly. Is there any other, or faster, way I can bring my spouse and kids to the US? Very truly yours, W.T. Dear W.T.: Most family and employment petitions include not only the principal beneficiary, but also his or her spouse and minor children, who are considered “derivatives.” If you obtained your green card in the US, but your family is back home in the Philippines, your spouse and minor kids could receive green cards under your petition as “following to join” derivatives. However, in order to receive their green

Let’s Talk Business AMy GAn I AM frequently asked the question: “Is it a good business opportunity to open a senior care home?” First, let us define what a Senior Care Home is and how is it different from an Assisted Living Facility or a Residential Care Home Facility for the Elderly (RCFE). A care home is a regular house that is converted and licensed with the State Department of Social Services to meet the needs of elderly residents. These conversions entail but are not limited to ramps, wider door width, walk-in shower, and installation of grab bars. For the State of California, there is no difference between an Assisted Living Facility (ALF) and a Senior Care Home, as both require the Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE) license to provide non-medical care for residents 60 years old and over. In this industry, the main difference between the two is the size of the facility. A care home is usually smaller homes licensed for 1-15 residents while an Assisted Living Facility are more institutionalized with 16 or more residents. In order to answer the question whether a care home business is good or not, it is pertinent to know if there’s a market. According to Stanford Center on Longevity and the State’s recent released Interim Population projections, the elderly population of

Digital Dentistry Dr. lovely teoDoro SLEEP apnea (AP-ne-ah) is a common disorder in which you have one or more pauses in breathing or shallow breaths while you sleep. Breathing pauses can last from a few seconds to minutes. They may occur 30 times or more an hour. Typically, normal breathing then starts again, sometimes with a loud snort or choking sound. Sleep apnea usually is a chronic (ongoing) condition that disrupts your sleep. When your breathing pauses or becomes shallow, you’ll often move out of deep sleep and into light sleep. As a result, the quality of your sleep is poor, which makes you tired during the day. Sleep apnea is a leading cause of excessive daytime sleepiness. Sleep apnea often goes undiagnosed. Doctors usually can’t detect the condition during routine office visits. Also, no blood test can help diagnose the condition. Most people who have sleep apnea don’t know they have it because it only occurs during sleep. A family member or bed partner might be the first to notice signs of sleep apnea. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea. In this condition, the airway collapses or becomes blocked during sleep. This causes shallow breathing or breathing pauses. When you try to breathe, any air that squeezes past the blockage can cause loud snoring. Obstructive sleep apnea is more common in people who are overweight, but it can affect anyone. For example, small children who

Community Journal

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016

A new family petition could be faster than waiting for your pending employment case cards, the priority date on your petition must be “current.” If your priority date retrogressed (moved backwards), your family would have to wait until the priority date on your petition once again becomes current, which can sometimes take many years. A possible faster alternative is to file a new F-2A family petition, rather than waiting for the priority date on an existing employment based petition to become current again for your derivatives. For example, the priority date in F-2A for visa issuance is September 2014, as of February 2016. For employment-based petitions, the priority date for visa issuance is January 2008. This means if you adjusted status, and the priority date on your employment based petition retrogressed, it may be faster to file a new family based petition than to wait for the priority date on your employer’s petition to become current again. If this situation applies to you, you may want to seek the advice of an attorney, who can evalu-

ate your situation and determine your best choices and options, and whether a new F-2A petition would be better (or faster), or if you need to stick with the existing petition out of concerns for the Child Status Protection Act, etc. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorneyclient relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader. WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES · SAN FRANCISCO · NEW YORK · PHILIPPINES

equate to a successful business as there are other factors such as having the qualified manpower, ability to deliver quality care, and having a sound financial control and management that dictates the growth of a business. Currently, there are only 8,100 licensed Residential Care facilities for the Elderly in California based on California Registry’s website, with a median cost of $3750/ resident for a private room and costs ranging from a low of $1,000 a month for a resident on Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to a high of $9,000 a month according to California Advocates of Nursing Reform. Keep in mind that rates vary from city to city. In summary, with the growing population of the elderly, it is inevitable to anticipate the increased demand for elderly services which will include the care home business. However, just like any success story, one should perform due diligence and research to find the right opportunity. *** Ami Gan is a Care Home Consultant, owner of Gan Consulting and an Investment Realtor. She was also a vendor with the State of California to teach the Initial Certification Training Program for RCFE Administrators. She majored in Marketing and Psychology at De La Salle University in the Philippines and took her Executive MBA at University of California, Los Angeles. She has been providing assistance with entrepreneurs who would like to open up a facility in California for the past 10 years. For more information about a senior care home, you may contact her at (707) 853-6691 or (925) 953-7700.

What is sleep apnea? have enlarged tonsil tissues in their throats may have obstructive sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is a less common type of sleep apnea. This disorder occurs if the area of your brain that controls your breathing doesn’t send the correct signals to your breathing muscles. As a result, you’ll make no effort to breathe for brief periods. Central sleep apnea can affect anyone. However, it’s more common in people who have certain medical conditions or use certain medicines. Central sleep apnea can occur with obstructive sleep apnea or alone. Snoring typically doesn’t happen with central sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is a less common type of sleep apnea. This disorder occurs if the area of your brain that controls your breathing doesn’t send the correct signals to your breathing muscles. As a result, you’ll make no effort to breathe for brief periods. Untreated sleep apnea can: • Increase the risk of high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, obesity, and diabetes; • Increase the risk of, or worsen, heart failure; • Make arrhythmias (ah-RITHme-ahs), or irregular heartbeats, more likely; • Increase the chance of having work-related or driving accidents. Sleep apnea is a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Lifestyle changes, mouthpieces, surgery, and breathing devices can successfully treat sleep apnea in many people. How is sleep apnea treated? Sleep apnea is treated with lifestyle changes, mouthpieces, breathing devices, and surgery. Medicines typically aren’t used

Calendar of Events across

America

(Advertising Supplement)

Senior Care Home: Is it a good business? 65 years old and over will double over the next 20 years from 4.3 million in 2010 to 8.4 million in 2030. While the CA Department of Aging states that California’s elderly population is expected to grow more than twice as fast as the total population. So as the youngest generation of baby boomers reach retirement, California’s over-65 population will nearly double in two decades. So, we can expect an increased demand for elderly support and services which include the senior care home industry. However, even with a growing market, a good business opportunity should be in the right location. Often, the difference between a successful and a struggling care home is attributed to its area. And yes, the care home business is no exception to this cliché’. Being in the right location means understanding and knowing your competitors. So before renting, buying or converting your property, learn how many facilities are located in your target community. You wouldn’t want open a care home in an area that is already over saturated with elderly facilities as it often results in high vacancy and low rates. The data can be found in the community care licensing website, www.ccld.ca.gov, where you can search the number of facilities in each county, city, or zip codes in California. Also, research your competitor’s fees and occupancy rate as it will help you decipher whether it is the right location for you. Of course, a good business doesn’t always

FAKE TOURIST VISA RESULTED IN BEING SENT BACK TO THE PHILIPPINES AND LATER JEOPARDIZED HIS IMMIGRANT VISA DUE TO FRAUD – ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Johnnatan (second from left) got a tourist visa through a newspaper ad that advertised “Non-Appearance” Visas for $2,500. He entered the US in 2002 without any problems, but when he returned in 2003, he was held at the airport and sent back to the Philippines, after US Customs and Border Protection accused him of using a fake or counterfeit tourist visa. That meant a possible lifetime ban. Years later, his mother’s petition became current, and he was afraid how his fake visa would affect his and his daughter’s chances of immigrating to the US. Watch how a family was able to overcome a fraud charge and be reunited, on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – this Sunday at 6:15 pm (PST) on TFC.

to treat the condition. Mouthpieces A mouthpiece, sometimes called an oral appliance, may help some people who have mild sleep apnea. Your doctor also may recommend a mouthpiece if you snore loudly but don’t have sleep apnea. A dentist or orthodontist can make a custom-fit plastic mouthpiece for treating sleep apnea. (An orthodontist specializes in correcting teeth or jaw problems.) The mouthpiece will adjust your lower jaw and your tongue to help keep your airways open while you sleep. If you use a mouthpiece, tell your doctor if you have discomfort or pain while using the device. You may need periodic office visits so your doctor can adjust your mouthpiece to fit better. Other methods are lifestyle changes, breathing devices, and surgery. Visit us today to experience latest innovation in digital dentistry. *Resources: US Department of Health and Human Services. *** Dr. Lovely Teodoro earned her degree with honors in Dental Medicine from National University, Philippines in 1995. She started her private practice upon graduating while simultaneously held a teaching position in the College of Dentistry, NU. For the past 20 years, her extensive dental training and experience continued from Philippines to California. Member of ADA, CDA, CCDA, Hercules Chamber of Commerce and Walnut Creek Chanmber of Commerce. For more details, please visit our website at www.lovelymanlapazteodorodds.com or call our office at The Dental Center of Hercules: 844 Willow Ave. Ste. A6, Hercules, CA 94547 / T: (510) 245-3004 or Ygnacio Valley Cosmetic Dentistry: 1479 Ygnacio Valley Rd. Ste 105, Walnut Creek, CA 94798 / T: (925) 979-9803. (Advertising Supplement)

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 F E B R UA RY 5 -1 5

University of the East Tau Alpha Sigma (TAS) Fraternity Golden Anniversary Please join us in congratulating TAS for their Golden (50th) Anniversary to be held at Tower Club, Philamlife Building in Makati, Philippines on February 5, 2016. All brothers from all over the world are encouraged to attend. There will be fun–filled activities including dancing, singing, reminiscing college days, golf, trips to Bicol, Batangas, and Tagaytay and reconnecting with both old and new TAS brothers and their spouses. Those who have not yet confirmed their attendance, please contact: (USA) Bernie Lim (bernielim@sbcglobal. net) & Rene Marcos (rmarcos_cpa@verizon.net); (PHILIPPINES) Rodrigo Mangay-ayam (rodman0983@yahoo.com.ph) & Manny Bautista (Manuel.D.Bautista@ph.ey.com).

F E B R UA RY 5 -A p R I L 1

Eagle Rock High School Monthly Open House Tours Eagle Rock High School invites the community to International Baccalaureate Open House Tours, from 8-10am during the spring semester on Friday, February 5; Friday, March 11; and Friday, April 1. Eagle Rock Junior/Senior High School serves students in grades 712, and was the first school in the LAUSD to be authorized to offer the prestigious International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme (grades 7-10) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (grades 11-12), a project-based program for concept and content-based learning to promote global mindedness and service to others. The IB Open House is open to all interested students, and will include an introductory presentation in the ERHS library, followed by campus tours, classroom visits, and a short questionand-answer period. To register for the Open Houses, please visit www.erhs.la, and click on the “IB Open House Registration” link. Please email Mylene Keipp mylene.keipp@lausd.net for more information. We look forward to your visit!

F E B R UA RY 6

Miss Magsingal Organization of America Coronation & Dinner-Dance The Officers and Members of Miss Magsingal Organization of America (MOA) cordially invites townmates and friends to attend our Miss MOA 2016-17 Coronation and Dinner/Dance on Feb. 6, from 5:00pm -12 midnight at the Hilton of Stockton (2323 Grand Canal Blvd, Stockton, CA). Our Royal Court to be honored and crowned are: Her Majesty Queen, Jillian Foronda; 1st Princess, Jemina Atanaya; and 2nd Princess, Jeramae Luczon. Attire is formal, dinner is $50/person, with live band entertainment. Limited seats are available on a first come first serve basis. For more details, please call Tereso U (209) 603-8440, Lanie (209) 814-8004, and Grace (209) 817-5674. Thank you.

St. Finbar Catholic Church Valentine’s Dinner Dance When: Saturday, February 6 from 7:00 - 11:00pm. Cost per ticket: $30. For more information on all events, please contact Marian Nobleza at 818-219-6463.

F E B R UA RY 1 2

An Intimate Night with Miguel Vera Beat the Valentine’s Day rush and get your tickets to “An Intimate Night with Miguel Vera,” a special Valentine Show featuring Miguel Vera, performing the greatest OPM hits and romantic Filipino classics by Cayabyab, Canseco, and Cruz. The one-night-only concert will take place at the Knott’s Berry Farm Hotel (7675 Crescent Ave, Buena Park, CA 90620) on February 12 at 8:00pm. Special guests include Annie Nepomuceno and Kit Navarro. Please call (714) 814-0412 or (818) 913-329 for tickets and information. Tickets are $40 each.

Voices of People Power Author Benjamin Pimentel and activist Cindy Domingo recall their experiences during martial law and how People Power affected their lives. Award-winning documentarist Jethro Cuenca Patalinghug will show “My Revolutionary Mother.” Event starts is at the Philippine Consulate General Social Hall in San Francisco at 6pm and is open to the public. Visit www.pawainc.com for more details.

F E B R UA RY 1 5

EDSA People Power@30 Essay Writing Contest Contest is open to all Fil-Ams, aged 18-30 and residents of the US. Theme is “Recapturing the spirit of 1986 People Power revolution and what it means to me as a FilipinoAmerican. Prizes include national publication of winning entry, 1st place gets $500, 2nd place $200 and 3rd place $100. Deadline of submission is Feb. 15. Visit www.pawainc.com for more details.

F E B R UA RY 2 0 -22

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

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

Community Journal

FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

Of charmed lives

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond

“Now is the winter of our discontent made glorious summer by this son of York.”

Monette AdevA MAglAyA NO matter the season, the soul may go through what may be described as a “winter of discontent” — a restless time when we wonder quietly if we could trade our life for someone else’s. If you are, don’t flog yourself silly. You don’t even have to admit it to anyone else but yourself. It’s nothing more than a normal rite of passage that allows us to imagine what it would be like if we had someone else’s luck, genetic make-up, breaks, talent, connections, relations, education, intelligence, looks, skin color, pedigree and other x factors that are supposed to tip the scale in our favor and make us happy and fulfilled. In short, they refer to those things that we think will allow us to live a charmed life and drive our fellow men mad with envy. The discontent hits you when you’re feeling most vulnerable: when there’s not enough cash to tide you over until the next pay period; your job stinks; you’re going through an extended rough patch with your wife or husband or lover; your car needs an overhaul; your kid hit a schoolmate and you need to see the principal; your sister in the home country, needs you to remit moolah fast, and lots of it, because your younger brother got into trouble and needs bail money. Everything sucks. Well, you get the picture of a gothic novel nobody wants to read. You want to scuttle everything and trade up to a charmed life. But would you, if you knew the real score behind those deceptively airbrushed images of the charmed lives we see on TV and the rags we read? We are sitting ducks open to negative suggestions we receive non-stop. We end up unhappy and dissatisfied with who we are, what we have and our place in the universe. We’re too fat, too short, too poor, too old. We don’t make enough. We drive clunkers. Our clothes are passé. Our nose bridge needs a lift; the chest is too flat; hair is too thin; skin is too sallow; our eyes need to be lasered; our teeth need whitening; our ears stick out; our

“

— William Shakespeare Richard III”

behinds, too saggy. Picture the word REJECT stamped on our pathetic, little foreheads if we were in a conveyor belt in an assembly line, as we head directly to the recycling bin unless we undergo a drastic make-over that will cost us plenty. We look and read about the airbrushed lives of celebrities on the red carpet. We see them parading and preening in their Pradas, Jimmy Choos, or Blahnik shoes, sheathed in thousand dollar Versace and Vera Wang gowns with décolletage showcasing ample natural or shored up cleavages, their gravity-defying faces tight

who lacks for nothing, has a son languishing in jail. That tall, reedthin Victoria’s Secret lingerie model suffers from bulimia. That hottie celebrity is a wife beater and is in rehab for serious addictions. You go through the entire universal data base frustrated and somewhat relieved to find out that your own life with all its warts, is just as bad or just as good as those of others and there’s no one you’d like to trade your life with, thank you very much. In most cases, the life we have is the life we would choose all over again. We just need to realize that there’s always more to a story and an image than meets the eye. Packaging can be mere illusion. What you see is not necessarily what you get, ergo, the need to dig deep. We are all programmed to go through great lengths to put up a deceptive front to hide the truth — either goaded by ego or the instinct for self-preservation. A self-respecting gardener winterizes the grass and preps it for the cold, dark days of winter to give it a fighting chance to survive and thrive in the spring and summer. We ought do the same thing and winterize the garden of our soul to keep it young and hopeful. I wish I could say it’s easy. But like anything that is worthwhile, it takes time, patience, work, persistence and gumption. But we could start with something basic. Upon waking up each day, we can psyche ourselves up with an unfailing weapon of choice — PRAYER. Personalized and heartfelt, it is our instant connection with the God of our being. These can merely be secular, positive affirmations of our own worth and place in this life or it can be the simple act of prayerful acceptance and thanksgiving for all that was, is and yet to come. Chances are, you’re already living one heck of a charmed life and you don’t even know it. ***

A self-respecting gardener winterizes the grass and preps it for the cold, dark days of winter to give it a fighting chance to survive and thrive in the spring and summer.

EMPLOYMENT

with botox or nipped and tucked by a surgeon’s scalpel and dripping in Harry Winston gems, escorted by equally gorgeous hunks dressed to the nines in their Armanis, as media people buzz around them like flies around honey. And we’re hoodwinked to the vision of charmed lives. Imagine that God sees how unhappy you are, takes pity on you and he gives you access to His Celestial PowerBook, with a database cataloging the lives of the past, present and future of the seven billion or so people that inhabit the world. He permits you to type in the name of the person you would like to exchange your life with. You discover surprising twists and turns of character and fate. You discover dirt that has been airbrushed or little dark secrets edited out or given a new spin. You discover untold pain and suffering, the great equalizers, etched in every life. That gorgeous, woman hiding behind a ready smile has a young daughter with cystic fibrosis and is going through a bitter divorce with a philandering husband. The good-looking guy you thought was to die for is a closet pedophile cum sado-masochist. The distinguished couple you met

”

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Business News

BSP releases new P100 bills

by Ben

O. de Vera Inquirer.net

FOLLOWING complaints that the P100 and P1,000 bills seem to look alike, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) released last Monday, Feb. 1, 100-peso bank notes with a stronger mauve or violet color. In a statement, the BSP explained that the currency issuance was “in response to suggestions from the public to make it easier to distinguish from the 1,000-peso bank note.” “Compared with the current color of the 100-peso bank note in circulation, the new 100-peso bank note will have stronger mauve or violet color on the obverse and reverse sides,” it said. All other features of the P100 bill will stay the same, it added. The BSP said it would henceforth print only the new 100peso bank notes with stronger color, but the public could still use and businesses must con-

tinue accepting the New Generation Currency P100 bills with fainter color. “The current 100-peso bank notes can still be used for daily transactions for payment of goods and services and will commingle with the new 100-peso bank notes with stronger mauve or violet color until supplies of the first version last,” the BSP said. Taxi drivers Taxi drivers like Wilson Arcilla, 31, welcomed the BSP move to make the P100 bill more distinct from the P1,000, as they were having difficulty when giving their passengers’ change, especially at night. A cabdriver for four years now, Arcilla narrated in an interview on Sunday, Jan. 31, that one night, a customer whose fare reached P120 had told him to instead give back P300 as change for the P500 bill paid. Arcilla thought he got lucky from the generous passenger, only to find out later when he

gassed up that he seemed to have lost P1,000. “That’s when I realized that I may have given a P1,000 bill with two P100 bills as change,” he said. The seemingly big tipper never contacted him to return the excess change. Lost money As a result, Arcilla said he had to work overtime that night to make up for the lost money. Instead of ending his shift at 9 p.m., he had to look for more passengers until 4am the next day. Arcilla said he hoped the 100peso bank notes with stronger violet color would no longer make it difficult for them when giving passengers’ change. For Arcilla, the P100 and P1,000 bills of the old bank note series, which the BSP dubbed the New Design Series, were easier to distinguish. These bills, introduced in 1985, however, will be demonetized next year. The BSP reminded the pub-

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Covered California offers to help…

health insurance should visit CoveredCA.com and find out where they can get help enrolling before Jan. 31,” Lee said. “If you get started before Sunday, our certified enrollers and Service Center representatives will help you get across the finish line by Feb. 6.” Consumers can sign up, or begin an application, in a variety of ways, including enrolling online at www.CoveredCA.com, calling (800) 300-1506 to enroll over the phone or finding in-person help in their communities. Inperson enrollment assistance can be found by visiting www. CoveredCA.com/get-help/local and searching for enrollment help by ZIP code. Because the federal Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act requires most Americans to have health insurance or pay a penalty known as the “shared responsibility payment,” Lee said the time is now for consumers to get coverage for their families instead of paying a penalty to the Internal Revenue Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is Service when they file their 2016 SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To taxes. The fine is calculated two send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ different ways, and uninsured asianjournalinc.com consumers will pay whichever

amount is higher. The first calculation is 2.5 percent of household income, with a maximum of the total yearly premium for the national average Bronze health insurance plan premium. The second calculation is $695 per adult plus $347.50 per child under the age of 18, with a maximum of $2,085. “You no longer have to gamble on something as important as your health, because there is financial assistance available to help bring you and your family quality health care coverage,” Lee said. Nearly nine out of every 10 Covered California enrollees receive some level of financial assistance. Covered California says that 670,000 enrollees paid $100 a month or less for their coverage in 2015 and that 350,000 enrollees paid $50 or less per month. After open enrollment ends, consumers may sign up only if they have a life-changing event such as getting married, having a child or moving. Medi-Cal enrollment is year-round. About Covered California Covered California is the state’s marketplace for the federal Patient Protection and Affordable

EMPLOYMENT

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Care Act. Covered California, in partnership with the California Department of Health Care Services, was charged with creating a new health insurance marketplace in which individuals and small businesses can get access to affordable health insurance plans. Covered California helps individuals determine whether they are eligible for premium assistance that is available on a sliding-scale basis to reduce insurance costs or whether they are eligible for low-cost or nocost Medi-Cal. Consumers can then compare health insurance plans and choose the plan that works best for their health needs and budget. Small businesses can purchase competitively priced health insurance plans and offer their employees the ability to choose from an array of plans and may qualify for federal tax credits. Covered California is an independent part of the state government whose job is to make the new market work for California’s consumers. It is overseen by a five-member board appointed by the Governor and the Legislature. For more information about Covered California, please visit www.CoveredCA.com. n

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AARP unmasks ‘Fearless at 50’ Filipina Roxanne Cai WASHINGTON, DC – Recognizing the milestone 50 represents, AARP recently launched “Fearless at 50,” a campaign to celebrate real people who are challenging outdated perceptions of what it means to be 50 and over. The campaign features real people boldly trying new things or just feeling good about who they are in video vignettes. Roxanne “Rock N Roll” Cai cofounded The Initiative, a group working to fight crime, help the needy, and make the San Francisco Bay Area a safer place — all dressed as superheroes. The volunteer group organizes food and clothing drives, used needlepickups, and street patrols. “We are activists who sometimes wear costumes. Our tagline is we try to save the world one deed at a time,” said Cai, who immigrated to the US from Manila when she was two years old. “When I joined this Real Life Super Hero community, I knew that there was a big emphasis on costumes, and that was very appealing to me. It’s fun to dress up in costumes and in masks and capes!” “Passing age 50 is often a big transition for people,” said Daphne Kwok, AARP Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American and Pacific Islander Audience Strategy. “We need to change the way we think about getting older. People 50-plus have life experiences that enrich their lives and expand their possibilities. We encourage people to be fearless about aging, and we celebrate individuals like Roxanne who are maximizing

their lives to the fullest.” AARP is also running an interactive Fearless at 50 Sweepstakes with a grand prize of $50,000, which will be active until February 29, 2016. To learn more and view Cai’s Fearless at 50 video, visit: www.aarp.org/fearless50. About AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The

Roxanne Cai

Magazine, the world’s largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016

‘Revolution Revisited’ in book form to be launched this month

WASHINGTON, DC – As the Filipino nation prepares to commemorate the 30th Anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution later this month, Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. welcomed the news that Pulitzer Prize-winner photojournalist Kim Komenich is set to launch his book, “Revolution Revisited” at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco on February 25. “The 1986 People Power Revolution was not only a turning point in Philippine history but also a source of inspiration for oppressed peoples everywhere. It was an unequivocal proof that a nation’s yearning for freedom and democracy could never be totally suppressed and that it could give the people the courage to rise above their fears and pessimism. This is the story that Kim Komenich’s photographs eloquently tell,” Ambassador Cuisia said. “Revolution Revisited” is a compendium of photographic images of the days leading up to, during, and after the EDSA People Power Revolution, which is considered the first peaceful and bloodless revolution launched by the people against their autocratic government. Komenich won the Pulitzer Prize in 1987 for his extraordinary coverage

Pulitzer Prize winner Kim Komenich present his book on the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution, “Revolution Revisited”, to Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. at the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC on January 28.

of the historical event. The photographs were also exhibited in a show of the same title at the Ayala Museum and other parts of the Philippines in 2011, and in the Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC in 2015. “While I was working, I kept history in mind,” Komenich said while explaining the measures it took to protect and preserve the quality of the photographs.

“On one level, I was just photographing the day-to-day life in the Philippines, but on another, I was watching some of these things happening behind the scenes. What a gift it was to be a witness to this,” Komenich further remarked. To find out more about the book and how to get a copy, please visit revrev.com/blog or email komenich@me.com. n

BSP releases new P100…

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lic that bank notes belonging to the New Design Series were no longer accepted in daily transactions since the end of last year. Those with old bank notes can still exchange their money with New Generation Currency bank notes through authorized agentbanks or the BSP’s cash department, as well as regional branches and offices until Dec. 31. In 2017, all old bank notes will no longer be accepted in transactions or traded with the BSP and banks, as they will have no monetary value. Next year, only the New Generation Currency bank notes series being issued since 2010 will remain legal tender in the country. n

Harvest Baptist Church 9th Anniversary celebration WE are inviting you and your family to the 9th Anniversary celebration of Harvest Baptist Church located at 92 Hill St., Daly City, California on Sunday, February 7, 2016 at 10am. Be our special

guest in witnessing God’s faithfulness and goodness. Lunch and Nursery will be provided. For more inquiries call (650) 296-0922. See you there. n

FEBRUARY 5-11, 2016 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (650) 616-4150

Friday, February 5, 2016

SF2

cover story

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 5, 2016

The Big Game: What to expect at Super Bowl 50 by AJPress On Sunday, Feb. 7, football teams Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos will come face-to-face at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California for Super Bowl 50. This marks the third straight season that the number one seeds from both conferences will meet in the Super Bowl. The Carolina Panthers finished the regular season with a 15-1 record, defeating the Arizona Cardinals in the national Football Conference

Championship game. This is the team’s second Super Bowl appearance since the founding of the franchise in 1995. The Denver Broncos, with a 12-4 season record, defeated the new England Patriots in the American Football Conference Championship Game, marking the team’s eighth appearance in the Super Bowl. This year marks the 50th edition of the Super Bowl, and is the first time the big game will be played in California

since 2003, and first in the San Francisco Bay Area since Super Bowl XIX in 1985. Levi’s Stadium is home of the San Francisco 49ers. The game, which starts at 3:30 pm PST/6:30 EST on Sunday, will be broadcast on CBS with Jim nantz and Phil Simms in the booth and Tracy Wolfson on the sidelines. The game will also be live streamed on CBSSports.com. Each Super Bowl game is named with Roman numerals,

but this year, the tradition was temporarily suspended in favor of Arabic numerals. Roman numerals will return next season for Super Bowl LI, the national Football League (nFL) said. Whether you’re a football fanatic or just want to tune in to see the Halftime show and commercials, the Asian Journal explores the different facets that make Super Bowl Sunday an unofficial American holiday and one of the most popular television events.

Football 101 Before you head to a Super Bowl party on Sunday, learn/brush up on football lingo OBJecT of the game: To outscore the opposing team. TeRMS Down: A period of action that begins as soon as the ball is put into play and ends when the ball is ruled dead, when a player is tackled or if the ball goes out of bounds. The offensive team is given four downs to advance the ball 10 yards. Should it fail to do this, the offense must surrender the ball to the defensive team, which it typically does by punting on the final down. Fumble: The act of losing possession of the ball while running before a tackle or score occurs. Members of both teams can recover a tackle. Should the defense obtain the ball, it is called a turnover. A fumble can also occur if a reciever losses the ball after a catch. Interception: A pass made by the offensive team that is caught by the defensive player. This ends the offense’s possession of the ball. Kick off: An action that occurs at the beginning of the first and third periods, and after each successful field goal and touchdown. It involves the “kicking team” kicking the ball to the “receiving team.” Punt: A kick in which a player drops the ball from their hands and kicks it before it hits the ground. This kick typically occurs on the fourth down when the offense has failed to advance the ball 10 yards. Although the offense can choose to attempt to advance the ball again, by punting, the opponent is likely to start farther up the field than they otherwise would. Snap: The action when the center tosses the ball backward between the legs to the quarterback, marking the start of a play. Tackle: The act of stopping a player in possession of the

Photo from Super Bowl 50 at Levi’s Stadium official Facebook page

Always on a Sunday: The history of the Super Bowl OnE of America’s biggest sport events started with two things: the merging of the American Football League (AFL) with the national Football League (nFL), and a rubber ball. In 1966, the nFL-AFL World Championship Game began as part of the merger between the two organizations. The name “Super Bowl” came from Lamar Hunt, owner of the Kansas City Chiefs, after watching his daughter play with a “Super Ball” — a small, high-bouncing ball that was very popular at that time. The name was supposed to be only temporary, until the powers that be could think of something better. The first championship took place in 1967 and was named “The nFL-AFL World Championship Game.” The official title was quite long, so the fans as well as the media took to the short, unofficial name, Super Bowl—which in 1969 became official. The sports event determines who wears the crown after a long series of elimination games. The first Super Bowl was on

January 15, 1967 at the Los Angeles Coliseum with the Green Bay Packers beating the Kansas City Chiefs, 35-10. The Super Bowl has always been on a Sunday, usually the last Sunday in January. However, for the first time in its history, it was held in February 3, 2002. This was due to the September 11, 2001 attacks, which made all TV schedules delayed by one week. Today, Super Bowl has also been scheduled in February since 2014. The games are identified by Roman numerals rather that numbers since 1971. However, in 2014, it was announced that for its fiftieth year, the game will not be using Roman numerals as they did not like “L” as “50.” As a result, they are breaking tradition for one year and will resume to “LI” to represent 51 for 2017. The winner of each Super Bowl receives the Vince Lombardi Trophy, named after Vince Lombardi, coach for the Green Bay Packers. He led his team to victory in each of the first two Super Bowls. (Malou LiwanagBledsoe/AJPress)

Interesting facts about the Super Bowl:

ball by seizing and throwing them to the ground. How the game works A football game consists of four 15-minute quarters with a 12-minute halftime break between the second and third periods. Before a game begins, the captains from both teams meet with the referee at the center of the field for a coin toss. The winner of the coin toss gets to decide to start the game by either kicking the ball to the other team or receiving the kick off from their opponent. Once the kick off happens, the game begins. The team receiving the ball must try to bring it as far back toward the kicking team as possible and get it into their end zone. This is done most commonly by running with the ball either by carrying it and running. Although this yields less yardage, advancing the ball this way reduces the risk of accidentally turning over the ball to the other team.

The team in possession of the ball has four opportunities called “downs” to advance the ball 10 yards. If it succeeds, it gets another four downs to advance it another 10 yards. If it fails, it must surrender possession of the ball to the other team. Once the team in possession of the ball manages to bring the ball to the end zone of the opposing team, it has the opportunity to score an additional point or two by opting for an extra-point or two-point conversion. At the end of the game, the team with the most points wins. How to score Touchdown (6 points): Scoring a touchdown is achieved when a player in possession of the ball crosses the opposing team’s goal line into the end zone. Field goal (3 points): A field goal is scored when the ball is kicked anywhere on the field, though it is typically attempted within 40 yards of the goal-

Illustration by Kendrick Tan

post. For the field goal to be deemed good, the kicked ball must go above the crossbar and between the uprights of the goalpost. Two-point conversion (2 points): At the end of a touchdown, the offensive team can attempt a two-point conversion by lining up on the defense’s two-yard line and advance the ball the same way it would to score a touchdown. If the team succeeds, it receives two points in addition to the six points for the touchdown. Safety (2 points): This occurs when the defense tackles an offensive player in possession of the ball in the offense’s end zone. Extra point conversion (1 point): At the end of a touchdown, the offensive team can attempt a one-point conversion by kicking the ball through the uprights of the goalpost, the same way done in a field goal. In the nFL, the ball is snapped from the 15-yard line. (Agnes Constante/AJPress)

• Crime takes a day off: In 1985, when the San Francisco 49ers played the Super Bowl in Palo Alto, California, the crime rate in San Francisco dropped 75 percent! • It is estimated that 45 percent of all US homes tune in to watch the Super Bowl. • From cheap to $$$. Tickets weren’t always pricey. The cost of tickets to the very first game was around $6. Today, you’d be lucky if you find a ticket for less than $3,000, depending on the game,

teams, location, seating and also the economy. • Face value vs demand value. Ticket prices also change because of their “face value” against “demand value.” For example, a ticket may have a face value of $900, but the actual demand value may range from $5,500 to $11,000. • Get lucky. Every year the nFL has a lottery in which 500 names are drawn out of a hat for a chance to buy a pair of tickets at their face value.

More than football: Super Bowl’s halftime shows APART from guessing which teams made it to the Super Bowl, the most anticipated news about the event is who’s going to perform during the halftime show. The last two decades has given football fans a concert-like feel with crazy production designs, costumes, fireworks and outstanding performances of various popular artists. This year for nFL’s golden anniversary, Super Bowl will feature past performers Beyonce and Fil-Am Bruno Mars. They will join Coldplay for the halftime show at Super Bowl 50 at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California. However, the SB halftime shows weren’t that entertaining Continued on Page SF4 Bruno Mars Photo by Raoul Gatchalian

Fil-Am to know: Jordan Norwood Halftime Hots: Some of the most memorable performances in Super Bowl history Denver Broncos wide receiver DURInG 2014’s Super Bowl XLVIII, the FilipinoAmerican community rallied behind the Seattle Seahawks to support Fil-Am football star Doug Baldwin. That excitement is seen once again for this year’s Super Bowl 50 as Fil-Am wide receiver Jordan norwood heads onto the field with the Denver Broncos. Jordan signed on to play with the Broncos during the

2014 off-season. After graduating from Penn State in 2008, where he played college football, Jordan signed onto the Cleveland Browns as an undrafted free agent in 2009. Prior to joining the Broncos family, he did stints with the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. During these collective seasons with the Eagles (2009), Browns (2010-12) and Broncos (2014-present), his record includes 48 receptions, 493 yards and one touchdown. Born in Honolulu to Brian and Tiffiney norwood, Jordan has been surrounded by football since birth. His father Brian played college Jordan Norwood with his wife Aleah and daughter football for the Hawaii Franni Rainbow Warriors and mother Tiffiney, Jordan and his played one year in the siblings get their Filipino blood nFL as a defensive back and identify as quarter-Filipino. for the Calgary StampedJordan’s older brother ers. From 2001 to 2007, Gabe currently plays for the Brian served as secondary Rain or Shine Elasto Painters in coach at Penn State and the Philippine Basketball Ascurrently works as the sociation (PBA). assistant head coach at Tune in to this Sunday’s Baylor University. Super Bowl 50 to catch the FilFrom their half-Filipino Am in action. (AJPress)

AS eager football fans prepare to watch their respective teams to battle it out on the field, millions of viewers too are anticipating Coldplay, Beyonce and Bruno Mars in the halftime show for Super Bowl 50. Will they fare better than past highrating performances, or will they belong to some of the most boring shows in SB history? For now, we can only guess and give you some of the best and worst halftime shows: King of Pop, Michael Jackson, 1993 With the goal of keeping the viewers glued, the national Football League (nFL) brought in no less than the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. Although MJ lip-synched his way to halftime, viewers went into frenzy with a medley of hits like “Billie Jean” and “Black and White.” It was also a good way to clean up his image, as reports of child sexual abuse against the pop star was starting to come out. To present his message of peace and harmony, he concluded his performance with “Heal the World,” backed up by 3,500 youngsters. Nipplegate: Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake, 2004 The duo’s performance was not as memorable as the “wardrobe malfunction” that

happened. Towards the end of their number, JT “accidentally” exposed JJ’s “bedazzled” breast for millions of viewers to see. After fines, appeals and the outrage, it still remains a debate whether the faux pas was part of their act. In memoriam: U2, 2002 It was less than five months after September 11, and the country was still reeling from the tragedy. How do you present halftime and still show sensitivity to a very touching issue? Bring in U2. The group included a 9/11 tribute to their performance of “Where the Streets Have no name,” with a scrolling backdrop of names of all the victims who died in the attacks. The Queen “B”: Beyonce, 2013 Multimedia indulgence in its finest covered Bey’s performance of her hits such as “Bootylicious,” “Independent Women,” and “Single Ladies.” It was also a mini-reunion for Destiny’s Child, when exmembers Kelly Rowland and Michelle Williams shot out from under the stage for “Bootylicious.” Of course, apart from the dozens of female dancers, fireworks, smoke and animation screen; viewers went wild over Bey’s seizure-inducing dance skills.

Old school dynamic performance: Bruno Mars, 2014 He’s not voluptuous like Beyonce, or as seasoned as Madonna, but Fil-Am Bruno Mars took the stage and owned it with his old-fashioned sense of showmanship. His 12-minute display showed his talent in singing, dancing and drums—without exuding an ounce of star ego. This friendliness vibe made the audience love him more in his performance of his hits such as “Locked Out of Heaven,” “Treasure” and closed with “Just the Way You Are,” with videos of troops serving overseas sending love to their families. The Red Hot Chili Peppers also joined him for two songs. Aside from breaking halftime show ratings with a whopping 115.3 million viewers, at 28 years old, he was also the youngest star to perform the SB halftime show in 13 years. Other notable performances: Diana Ross’ (1996) helicopter exit, Prince’s (2007) “Purple Rain” rainy performance in Miami with his controversial guitar, Bruce Springsteen (2009), Madonna with nicki Minaj, LMFAO, CeeLo Green and MIA’s “bird flippin’” fiasco, and Katy Perry’s (2015) four costume changes, metallic lion (or tiger?) and two dancing sharks. (AJPress)

Celebrating the Year of the Fire Monkey THE Year of the Fire Monkey officially begins on Monday, Feb. 8. Around the world, those who observe the Chinese New Year holiday will celebrate with various rituals to ensure that the coming year is full of luck, fortune and good energy.  From what this year means for your animal sign to what to eat on the first day of the new year, the Asian Journal takes a look at the symbolism behind every ritual and tradition that goes into ringing in the Chinese New Year. While 2015 — the Year of the Sheep — was characterized as the meeting of the minds and collaboration, “the energy of the monkey is very different…It’s not a year for the weak and timid,” said Melissa Yamaguchi, an energy therapist and Feng Shui educator based in Westlake Village, California, adding that 2016 will bring tricks and twists. Tips to prepare for Chinese New Year • DECLUTTER. Up until Feb. 6, it is the best time to declutter and get rid of old files by legally storing or shredding them. For example, untouched business cards and old papers should be disposed of because they represent lost contacts and unfinished business. It’s not just about stacking and organizing these items, Yamaguchi said, but rather removing them from your workplace. “It’s old information and old money spent,” she said. Additionally, wastebaskets at home and at work should be emptied daily. On the 14th day of the new year, it is encouraged to clean the house again to remove traces of celebration.  • DONATE. Gather items at home that are no longer useful — whether clothing, furniture or dinnerware — and donate them if they are still in good condition. “Donating not only provides for those who don’t have…but it clears the way for new possibilities in your own life..in terms of movement and creativity,” Yamaguchi said. “When we are stagnated by things that are old, it really blocks new energy from coming in.” Repairing and gluing broken items is seen as bad luck because when an item breaks, it absorbs negative energy.  • NO BEGGING. On the eve of Chinese New Year, it is considered bad luck to beg and ask for a loan. It is strongly encouraged to not ask parents/other relatives for money, but exchanging red

envelopes is okay. However, the red envelopes are not supposed to be opened until the day after. When you lend someone money on Chinese New Year, Yamaguchi said, it sets the tone that s/he will be begging for money for the entire year. • ALL THINGS RED. Red is a special color in Chinese culture because it signifies energy, happiness and good luck.  RED ENVELOPES. One of the defining symbols of Chinese New Year is a red envelope (hongbao in Mandarin), which contains money to be given as gifts, usually to kids from their parents, grandparents and other adults. Though you may give any amount you’re comfortable with, Yamaguchi said you should offer the most to your parents. According to China Highlights, giving a red envelope is a way to share your blessings if you have started earning money, and suggests that parents should be given $100-$300; $10-$30 for close friends and relatives’ children; $20-$200 for employees; $20 for your own children; and $5$10 for acquaintances’ children. RED CLOTHING. Yamaguchi suggests purchasing at least one new item of red clothing, as the color attracts the strongest energetic response. On New Year’s day, red clothing must be worn to represent vitality and strength.  RED DECORATIONS. Anything red, such as tablecloth, flowers or lanterns, should be brought into the home because they offer prosperity and goodwill. • TIME FOR FAMILY. On Feb. 8, it is important to spend time with family and friends.  New Year’s Eve (Feb. 7) should be a family reunion, which can be marked by a dinner of close family members. The meal should be spent talking about future plans and dreams, never anything negative. On the second day of the new year, it is custom to visit in-laws, and it is also recognized as the day to be kind to dogs and animals. It is discouraged to eat any kind of meat. On the third day, it is encouraged to go to bed early and not to eat pork — both of which show that you are putting your health first. On the sixth to the tenth day, it is expected to visit and celebrate with others.  • REMOVE NEGATIVE ENERGY. At midnight, open windows and doors at home to allow negative energy from 2015

Chinese New Year SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – February 5, 2016

Chinese Zodiac: What this New Year means for your animal sign

to leave. • DON’T SWEEP. It is largely discouraged to avoid using scissors or a broom on the first day of the new year because it means you cut/sweep away possibilities.  • GREET OTHERS WITH HAPPY THOUGHTS. According to tradition, ringing in the new year means spreading happy thoughts when speaking to others.  What to eat on Chinese New Year SWEETS — The very first bite of New Year’s day is supposed to be something sweet because in Ancient China, when someone would deliver good news, it would be delivered with something sweet (i.e. glutinous rice, candy, fruit).  FISH —  An entire fish, complete with tail and head, should be served during the New Year celebration because it symbolizes prosperity and full abundance coming your way. LONG NOODLES — Noodles are a sign of long life and good health. No matter how long they are, they are not supposed to be cut in the middle. Typically noodle dishes have up to seven vegetables in them, which represent different arms of Chinese medicine in encouraging good health.  DUMPLINGS — According to Chinese Highlights, traditional dumplings are eaten to represent the money you will make in the New Year.  FRUITS — Certain round and golden fruits are eaten and displayed during the Chinese New Year period, such as: pineapple (good luck), apples (wisdom), mangos, watermelon (abundance), tangerines/oranges (fortune), pomelos (prosperity), kiwi, papayas (good health), grapes (wealth and luxury), lemons and limes (remove negative energy), and starfruit (securing reputation).

THE Chinese Zodiac is based on a 12-year cycle, and each year in that cycle is related to an animal sign: rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake, horse, sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig. Those born in 1920, 1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004 and 2016 are considered Monkeys. Since this year is about the fire monkey, it will be overall be an interesting and creative year for the sign, despite some bumps and the need to carefully consider decisions. 2016 is shaping up to be a good year for monkeys (highly creative energy, skillful with hands), snakes (will see financial success), dragons (benefit those around them) and rats because of the strong energies. The rabbit is also well-favored because they have excellent business skills. “It will be good to hang out with those born in those years, listen to their advice and partner with them in business,” Yamaguchi said. For other signs: the ox will have a neutral year of nothing too crazy, as it is an animal that is slow and steady; the tiger’s biggest chal-

lenge will to not be argumentative because they won’t win; the horse will not see any dramatic highs or sinking lows, but will see opportunities for change to embrace; the sheep is positioned well for business, but may be inclined to complain and could block any good energy; the rooster is strong financially from Feb - July, but should slow down in the autumn; the dog was very well protected in 2015, but there is no unseen protector this year so must find protection and speak up for themselves; and the pig may see a bumpy year because of some false worries, but should ignore them because stomach and back issues could arise. “The most important thing of this year is to bring out the best of the monkey because the monkey is full of energy, likes to talk a lot and be the center of attention,” Yamaguchi said. “Bring in the monkey with laughter, love, smiles, good music and fun cheer.” (Feng Shui tips and Chinese New Year traditions as told to Christina M. Oriel/AJPress by Melissa Yamaguchi. You may contact Melissa at myenergymylife@gmail.com)

SF4

celebrityworld The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 5, 2016

celebrity world By Ferdie Villar

Pauleen Luna and Vic Sotto’s star-studded wedding

The entourage was a mix of family and showbiz — or both, with Danica Sotto (Vic’s daughter with actress Dina Bonnevie) and husband, PBA cager Marc Pingris as veil sponsors, while Vic’s son, Oyo and wife Kristine Hermosa were the cord sponsors. Of course, the whole “dabarkads” were there—from Aldub love team Alden Richards and Maine Mendoza are flower sponsors for the offertory, Ruby Rodriguez as Matron of Honor aand Ryza Mae as one of the flower girls. Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, one of the bride’s closest friends, took time out from her busy schedule to be a bridesmaid. Still, no matter how “showbiz” their wedding may seem, the couple’s celebration was meaningful. Many years Vic and Pauleen had to endure criticisms about their May-December relationship, and many said it wouldn’t last. Also, the young Pauleen had to deal with Vic’s children from three different Bernardo and Editha Barba celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a renewal of their marriage vows held at the Good Shepherd Catholic Church in Elk Grove last Saturday, Jan. 30. A reception followed women — Danica and Oyo with actress Dina Bonnevie, Vico with at the Croatian American Cultural Center in Sacramento. Shown in photo with the couple are US Ilocano former actress Coney Reyes and National Association Board of Director Vic Barba and his wife, Amor.

THOUGH their wedding was simple and not as grand as other celebrities, Pauleen Luna and Vic Sotto’s celebration was still, nonetheless, star-studded. Aside from the fact that the two are co-hosts “Eat Bulaga, the longest running afternoon TV show in the Philippines, both have friends and family in showbiz. Officiated by Father Jeffrey

Quintela, the couple exchanged I do’s in a Catholic wedding at St. James The Great Parish Church in Alabang last Saturday, January 30. Among the principal sponsors are Vic’s brother Sen. Tito Sotto and co-host Joey de Leon—which comprises their popular trio, TVJ. TV executive Tony Tuviera President and COO of TAPE, Inc. was also a sponsor.

Beauty expert and travel agent in the Bay Area Cristina Caceres is shown in photo with her business associate Edgar Atienza during her birthday celebration in Colma recently.

The San Jose Chamber of Commerce has chosen Susan Pacifico as the Fashionable Lady of San Jose for 2015 at a Welcome 2016 dinner and dance recently.

In this Instagram post, Vic Sotto with his children Vico, Danica, Paulina and Oyo on Comedian and “Eat Bulaga” host Vic Sotto finally tied the knot with his wedding day. The comedian has expressed his love and gratitude to his family for co-host Pauleen Luna last Saturday, Jan. 30, at the St. James The Great respecting him and accepting Pauleen as his wife. Also in photo are Danica’s husband Parish Church in Alabang. (Instagram photo by @allan_klownz). Marc Pingris and Oyo’s wife Kristine Hermosa. (Instagram photo from @ danicapingris).

sa akin mga anak ko. And, yung pagmamahal niyo sa akin, damdam na damdam ko talaga. And alam ko na hindi mahirap mahalin yung aking asawa.” Congratulations and best wishes to Pauleen and Vic!

Paulina with model Angela Luz. During the reception, Vic thanked all his children for their respect and acceptance. “I always say na it was not that easy for all of us na tanggapin ang kung ano man. Pero

in this instance, naramdaman ko kung gaano niyo ako nirerespeto,” he said and then added, “ “Hindi lang yung basta na sinasabi na ‘we respect,’ pero naramdaman ko talaga deep in my heart yung respeto niyo

Filipina community leader Maribeth Lalongisip will be celebrating her birthday on Sunday, Feb. 21.

January birthday celebrant Lilly Smith is shown with her dancing partner Louie Rubio and her longtime friend from the Philippines, Cita Tango.

Jonas Gaffud: Meet The ‘Mirror’ who foretells the next fairest queen of the Universe

By Monet

IF fairytales were written in a modern setting and Queen Grimhilde—Snow White’s evil stepmother, aka the Wicked Queen—was to ask her magic mirror who the fairest of them all is, she better wish that the mirror contained the spirit of Jonas Gaffud. Jonas Gaffud is no psychic, but he has a gift for seeing the beautyqueen potential behind any ordinary Pinay—turning her into an extraordinary woman fit to wear that Jonas Gaffud $300,000 diamond crown. With the Gaffud says in an article, “We help of his team, Aces and Queens, don’t get paid not even part of they work together to train Filipinas the prize money. We only get a to compete in Miss Universe, Miss cut for endorsements because we World, Miss International and other helped them get it. Passion talaga prestigious pageants. Their group is ‘to, katuwaan ‘to (This is really a composed of equally talented and passion, we do it for fun).” gifted professionals from diverse This makes Gaffud and his team fields: an award-winning movie even more admirable. I had the director, a lawyer, an engineer, a privilege of meeting Jonas a few fitness instructor, a make-up art- years ago when he came here for ist, an architect, a nurse, a fashion an event with Venus Raj (who won designer and a talent manager. 4th Runner-up in Miss Universe Surprisingly, they are not paid to 2010). He is a very dedicated mantrain and handle beauty queens. ager/handler. He is truly passion-

ate in what he does and he is just happy doing what he loves. In Snow White’s story, he could be “Happy,” the dwarf who is full of joy and encourages the princess, but out there in the tough and competitive world of pageants, he could be as fierce, strong-willed and mission-oriented as the wicked queen. A deadly yet—has proven to be—an effective combination. Products of Gaffud’s magical training style are Megan Young (Miss World 2013), Ariella Arida (Miss Universe 2013 – 3rd Continued on Page SF5

More than football: Super Bowl’s halftime...

From Page SF2 before. Initially, the goal of the SB halftime show was to fill the void and keep the fans entertained—those who weren’t stuck in lines at concession stands or the bathrooms. Band camp, star power and Disney Early shows drew less attention and press, as they featured patriotic halftimes performance by school marching bands. The first SB in 1967 at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum had the University of Arizona Band, Grambling College Band and trumpeter Al Hirt entertained the audiences, minus, of course any kind of commercialization. The band phase went on until SB XI, but through the years NFL would insert a few star power like Broadway and movie star Carol Channing (SB IV and VI), singer Anita Bryant (SB V), jazz great Ella Fitzgerald, and

singer Andy Williams. The Walt Disney production also became a part of SB, starting with the Mousketeers in 1977 at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, 1984 for SB XVIII, with an explosion of floats, balloons, dancers, Disney characters and of course, Mickey Mouse himself; and 1987 with Disney’s Salute to Hollywood featuring George Burns and Mickey Rooney. Big stars, super stages Although the gigantic 1970s singing ensemble Up With People performed at four halftime shows (1976, 1980, 1983 and 1986), they weren’t really the most memorable. The group—who was supposedly (quietly) funded by Exxon and Coca-Cola—was seen as a cultlike organization aimed to discredit liberal culture during the ‘60s and ‘70s. However, it was during Up With People’s first

SB performance that brought in a concert-like quality sound system, covering the stadium. The nineties brought in more pop stars onstage. In 1993, NBC brought in the King of Pop, Michael Jackson. A new era in viewing ushered in—millions of viewers apparently opted to take their breaks during the game, as halftime ratings surpassed the actual game for the first time. Halftime shows after that became a huge viewer magnet—big productions with multi-million dollar commercial viability. It also gave the audience the concert feel, with huge stars like Aerosmith, U2, Black Eyed Peas and Katy Perry to name a few. Today, the halftime show is equally viewed as the game itself, with a whopping 118.5 million viewers from last year’s Super Bowl. (AJPress)

Features

How do you celebrate Chinese New Year? Filipinos and Fil-Ams shared how they traditionally celebrate Chinese new Year, and what the 2016 Year of the Monkey means to them. “Growing up both Filipino and Chinese, I celebrated both the Buddhist and Catholic traditions, so it was a unique experience. We celebrated by lighting firecrackers, exchanging red envelopes, eating traditional mooncake and ricecakes. We also burned incense by the gravesites of our departed loved ones, to keep their memory alive.” - Gloria Ho, Glendale, CA “I’m hoping for more good luck this year, because it’s my zodiac year!” - Maxinne Vergara, Chino Hills, CA

“This year we’ll be watching the Super Bowl, but we usually gather extended family and everything. We hand out red envelopes. We have authentic Chinese food, dumplings, and fruits, especially oranges. And basically for one night, everyone speaks Chinese to everyone.” - Luke Baumbach, Anaheim, CA “I celebrate Chinese New Year on the Eve. My family generally goes out to dinner or orders Chinese food and brings it home. It’s usually a lot of food, signature dishes with significant meanings. Lettuce wraps, for example, signify money. And lots of food means lots of leftovers…which means an abundance of wealth in the coming year.” - Kathryn

CHINESE NEW YEAR AT THE AMERICANA AT BRAND. On Saturday, Feb. 1, hundreds of people flocked to the Americana at Brand in Glendale, California to celebrate the Lunar New Year with cultural performances, Asian food and special apperances by cast members from ABC’s “Fresh off the Boat.” For the month of February, enjoy festive decor and special shopping events and deals at the mall. AJPress photos by Ding Carreon

Wong, Irvine, CA “We either go out to a Chinese restaurant for dinner, or prepare food at home. This year, we booked a Chinese restaurant, which you should do fast because they get fully booked really quickly. Fish and noodles signify wealth and health. Before we eat, always do an offering for our deceased Chinese family members. We light candles and incense, and this is the part where we do all the bowing. Another big thing is the red envelopes, usually given during holidays or celebrations. Red symbolizes good luck.” - Jessica San Luis, Los Angeles, CA “As a Filipino/VietnameseAmerican, I celebrate Lunar New Year with my Vietnamese side. We typically have a party at my grandma’s house with traditional Vietnamese food, Bánh cuốn, Bún chả, Bánh Xèo, and Nộm ngó sen. We play a game called Bầu cua cá cọp, a Vietnamese gambling game involving dice, and we greet our elders in traditional Vietnamese. To me, Chinese New Year is important, because it gives me a chance to celebrate my Vietnamese side, culture and traditions. All of my cousins are the first generation here, so we don’t get too many opportunities to do so. ” - Anthony Nguyen, Diamond Bar, CA

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - February 5, 2016

The origin of Chinese Lunar New Year

The most important holiday for the Chinese people started out of fear. legends tell of the battle against nian, a beast that ate livestock and children. nian, in fact, is the Chinese word for year. To keep nian out of chicken coops and cradles, villagers were told by a wise old man to wear red clothes, hang red signs and make lots of noise — three traditions of

Runner-up), Janine Tugonon (Miss Universe 2012-1st Runner-Up), shamcey supsup (Miss Universe 2011 – 3rd Runner-up) and Venus Raj (Miss Universe 2010 – 4th Runner-up), among many others. Through all of the queens’ quest for worldwide victory, their mentor, Jonas stayed with them and never failed to be optimistic, which in my opinion is not as easy as it sounds. having high hopes for your candidate, let alone your mentee (or your “alagas,” as he calls them), and receiving a different verdict from the judges every year can be frustrating. it takes someone with a heart like Gaffud to keep pressing on. And quite incidentally, an unassuming ‘Queen’ possessing the same fighting spirit was bound to meet her very own magic mirror.

Miss Universe 2015, pia Alonzo Wurtzbach is known for joining the Bb. pilipinas pageant not once, not twice – but three times – until she was finally crowned as Miss Universe – philippines 2015. her dream and relentless drive led her to Gaffud’s path where winners – and “winner-handlers” – meet. And as expected, it was a match made in heaven – the universe rather. We can say that the rest is history after that but only the queen and her mentor know exactly what they had to go through to be where the universe has placed her to be right now. As Gaffud wrote in his blog, “in Random order by JAG”, he recalls his first experiences with pia: “pia and i had three encounters in 2012 before i took her under my wing as an aspiring beauty queen. i

first saw her in a restaurant with her friends. i told her she could join a pageant but she had to undergo series of trainings. she said yes, but i never heard from her again. i saw her for the second time during the star Magic Ball. she did not even recognize me, so i assumed she really wasn’t interested… The third time i saw her was in a mall in Makati City.... i called her over and scolded her for snubbing me at the ball and she apologized. Then i asked her, “Are you serious about the pageant? You could win you know.” To which she replied, “Really? i could join?” This was the first time i saw her eyes sparkle with genuine enthusiasm. i assured her she could win, but not without conditions. i told her she had to train very hard. i was quite surprised when she exclaimed, “Finally i have something to do with my life!”

Chinese new Year. Fireworks and firecrackers are also traditional weapons against the beast and are widely used over the holiday. With the old man’s advice, nian was conquered, which the people recognize as the “passing of the nian,” known in Chinese as guo nian, which is also synonymous with celebrating the new year. Also known as the spring Festival, the Chinese lunar

Jonas Gaffud: Meet The ‘Mirror’ who foretells the next... From Page SF4

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Well, she indeed has something – and so much more to do now that she is reigning Miss Universe. And guess what, Mr. Jonas Gaffud, you somehow saw that even before she knew she could. pia’s dream-cometrue was like a fairytale. some queens have fairy godmothers. As for pia, well, she had a magic mirror. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of Monet Salon salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products such as Enlighten, your solution to discoloration. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com or email him at monetsalon@aol.com

new Year begins at the new moon—typically between Jan. 21 and Feb. 20. originally tied to the lunar-solar Chinese calendar, the popular adoption of China of the western calendar in 1912 made their people join in celebrating new Year’s Day on Jan. 1st. China, however, continues to still celebrate the traditional Chinese new Year. (Malou Liwanag-Bledsoe/AJPress)

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The Asian Jo ur na l SF M A G A Z I NE - Februa ry 5 , 2 0 1 6

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