San Francisco Edition -- November 13 -- 19, 2015 by Asian Journal Community Newspapers

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Volume 14 - No. 46 • 3 Sections – 20 Pages

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Oral hearing of PH vs China set on Nov. 24 by Patricia Lourdes Philstar.com

Viray

mANILA—the Permanent Court of Arbitration under the United Nations has set the date for the hearing on the Philippines’s claims against China in connection to the south China sea dispute, the Department of foreign Affairs (DfA) said on Wednesday, Nov. 11. “the oral hearing on the merits of the Philippines-China arbitration case under Annex VII of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the sea will be held from 24 November to 30 November 2015 at the hague, the Netherlands,” the DfA said in a statement. Last october 30, the tribunal issued its award on jurisdiction over the said case, citing that it concerns the role of “historic rights” and source PAGE A2

DATELINE

USA

The Permanent Court of Arbitration at The Hague, Netherlands has scheduled the oral arguments on the merits of the Philippines-China arbitration case under Annex VII of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea from Nov. 24 to 30. Permanent Court of Arbitration/Released

AGREEMENT. President Benigno S. Aquino III welcomes People’s Republic of China Foreign Minister Wang Yi during the courtesy call at the Music Room of the Malacañan Palace on Tuesday, Nov. 10. The Philippine government and China have agreed not to discuss the territorial dispute over the South China Sea during the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit next week. Malacañang photo by Joseph Vidal

Obama to seek Supreme Court review on immigration overhaul Another roadblock for executive actions that can save up to 5 million undocumented immigrants from deportation by christina

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM AcroSS AMEricA

Behind the ‘model minority’ myth: the Asian disadvantage

the ban imposed by a federal district court judge in texas on two programs obama introduced: Deferred Action for Parents of Americans (DAPA) and an expanded version of the Deferred Action on Childhood Arrivals (DACA). this latest ruling is another setback to obama’s attempt to overhaul the immigration system before his term ends. texas and 25 other states filed a

M. orieL

AJPress

PresIDeNt Barack obama will seek the supreme Court’s review of his executive actions on immigration, following a federal appeals court’s ruling that the plans must remain blocked. In a 2-1 vote on monday, Nov. 9, the 5th Us Circuit Court of Appeals upheld

WIth stereotypes like “the model minority” and the “most successful race,” Asian Americans are facing increasing pressure in society. studies show Asian Americans are the most educated race, with over half (51.5 percent) possessing a bachelor’s degree or higher, compared to just 30 percent of the overall

lawsuit back in february, stating that the creation of DAPA and expansion of DACA go against the president’s executive power and would have negative affects on each state’s economy. texas asserted that the “lawful presence” of the immigrants would require the state to issue “state-subsidized driver’s licenses” and other aid programs. further, the lawsuit alleged that the

government did not follow the proper procedures for enacting the new immigration rules. “Congress did not intend to make immune from judicial review an agency action that reclassifies millions of illegal aliens in a way that imposes substantial costs on state,” wrote Judge Jerry e. smith in his majority opinion on monday. PAGE A2

Two Filipinos charged American asks judge to determine with child trafficking, probable cause in illegal bullet case pornography by Maricar

B. BrizueLa

Inquirer.net

PAGE A2

mANILA—the legal counsel of an alleged “tanim bala” (planta-bullet) victim and American the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) iden- missionary has filed a motion for tified two filipinos responsible for providing more judicial determination of probthan 100 nude photos of children to a man arrested able cause. at san francisco International Airport in April. During a hearing on WednesDuring a press conference, NBI Cybercrime Di- day, Nov. 11 at the Pasay revision Chief ronald Aguto said Lyan tandeg and gional Court Branch 119, ershellina Atad, the sources of the photos, were ar- nesto Arellano, the lawyer of rested Nov. 4 after meeting with undercover NBI 20-year-old Lane michael White agents to pimp an 8-year-old girl, according to an told Judge Pedro de Leon GutierInquirer report on monday, Nov. 9. rez that White’s camp was withBoth have been charged with qualified child traf- drawing the earlier motion for ficking and syndicated child pornography and are the reinvestigation of the case. currently being detained in NBI jail. “We filed this motion for ju“tandeg and Atad offered to the undercover dicial determination of probable agents the minor and showed them the nude pho- cause so that the judge will now PAGE A2 be the one who will determine

Over 100 photos seized in US

SSS briefing and on-site services on November 22 at PH Consulate San Francisco office to open in January 2016

sAN frANCIsCo—Good news to all filipinos in san francisco and the Bay Area! the social security system (sss) of the Philippines will be coming to san francisco to conduct on-site services and a briefing for all sss members. this will be held on sunPAGE A2

if there is really probable cause for filing the charge,” Arellano explained. he added that this move was deemed “more practical and faster” by his client. “[the proceedings] are taking too long for them. they are already financially dislocated. they came here to set up an outreach for their church but this is what happened, a very unfortunate one,” the lawyer added. White, a florida native, was arrested on sept. 17 at the NAIA terminal 4 departure area, along with his father, an American pastor, and his filipino stepmother, as they were supposed to board a plane to Coron, Palawan. the three came from the Unit-

Lane Michael White

ed states and had a connecting flight from China to the Philippines. Airport baggage inspectors maria elma Cena and marvin Garcia reportedly found the .22 cal. bullet in White’s possession after his baggage went through an X-ray scanner of the domestic terminal. PAGE A3

Binay’s birthday wish: ‘Uplift the life of every Filipino’ by Bernice

caMiLLe V. ManilaTimes.net

Bauzon

“UPLIftING the life of every filipino.” this was what Vice President

Jejomar Binay’s wished as he celebrated his 73rd birthday on Wednesday, Nov. 11 with residents in a poor community in Pasay City (metro manila). Binay said ending poverty for

filipinos has been the guiding principle of his almost three decades in public service. “Kung gagawa ho ako ng birthday wish, sana ho ay umangat na ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino [If I would make a birthday wish, I hope every filipino’s life gets better],” he added.

the Vice President shared that his late mother was a teacher in Pasay City, and that he grew up on Libertad street. he said the money they received as death benefit when his mother died was used to buy a house. PAGE A3

Vice Pres. Jejomar Binay

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From the Front Page

Oral hearing of PH vs China... Obama to seek Supreme Court review on immigration... PAGE A1 of maritime entitlements in the disputed sea. Meanwhile, the Philippines maintained that it will pursue the case against China’s excessive claims over the South China Sea. “Arbitration, which is a universally-recognized dispute settlement mechanism in international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, is a peaceful and enduring solution to the overlapping maritime claims in the South China Sea. We are determined to pursue the arbitration case to its logical conclusion,”

Foreign Affairs Spokesperson Charles Jose said. China, on the other hand, said that it is up to the Philippines to settle the dispute over the two countries. “The person who caused the problem should solve it. We hope that the Philippines can make a more sensible choice,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said in a statement. Wang is in the Philippines to meet with Filipino officials regarding the arrival of Chinese President Xi Jinping in the country next week for the 23rd AsiaPacific Economic Cooperation Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

SSS briefing and on-site services... PAGE A1 day, November 22, 2015 at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center, located at 447 Sutter Street, San Francisco, California. The on-site services will start at 10am, while the briefing will be at 2pm. The following are the On-site Services that will be conducted by the SSS: • Registration of new members • Reactivation of SSS membership for existing members • Enrollment in the Flexifund Program • Member data amendment • Annual confirmation of pensioners; and • Benefit claim applications. Those who are interested to avail themselves of these services are encouraged to download the forms at www.sss.gov.ph.

PAGE A1 Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton welcomed the ruling, saying that “today, the Fifth Circuit asserted that the separation of powers remains the law of the land, and the president must follow the rule of law, just like everybody else. Texas, leading a charge of 26 states, has secured an important victory to put a halt to the president’s lawlessness.” In response, the Department of Justice announced Tuesday, Nov. 10 that it disagreed with the ruling and is planning to appeal the case before the Supreme Court. “The Department of Justice remains committed to taking steps that will resolve the immigration litigation as quickly as possible in order to allow DHS to bring greater accountability to our immigration system by prioritizing the removal of the worst offenders, not people who have long ties to the United States and who are raising American children,” Justice Department spokesman Patrick Rodenbush said in a state-

Applicants are also requested to confirm their attendance for the upcoming SSS on-site services and briefing at cultural@ philippinessanfrancisco.org. For those who cannot attend the briefing on November 22, the SSS team will still be present on November 23-25, 2015 to conduct services starting 10am PAGE A1 at the Philippine Center. More good news to all SSS US population, CNN Money remembers! The SSS will be ported. opening their San Francisco Asian Americans also earn office in January next year. much more than the general The new office will be located populace: $74,105 in median inat the seventh floor of the Phil- come versus $53,657, according ippine Center. Please watch to the US Census Bureau’s 2014 out for more details on the American Community Survey. new office. However, numbers only tell For further inquiries regard- half of the story. ing the SSS on-site services and “When you dig a little bit, it member concerns, please email shows that we are not all doing Ms. Marites Marin through well as society, the government marinmc@sss.gov.ph. and other institutions would lead you to believe,” said Christopher Kang, National Director of the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA). “We do have a very diverse population and very diverse needs.” Last month, columnist Nicholas Kristof wrote an op-ed in The New York Times entitled “The Asian Advantage,” where he

ment, adding that the department “disagrees with the Fifth Circuit’s adverse ruling.” Bypassing Congress, Obama announced a series of plans last November that would save up to 5 million undocumented immigrants — including parents, young adults and business owners — from deportation. Instead of separating families, the executive actions called for diverting resources toward deporting undocumented immigrants with criminal records. Currently, there are nearly 12 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States. Of that number, approximately 1.3 million are Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI), making up nearly 12 percent of the total undocumented population. Some of the highest numbers come from heavily-populated countries like India, China, and the Philippines. Around 375,000 AAPIs are estimated to benefit from Obama’s executive actions, according to the White House.

In California, the affected population includes 966,900 California residents, according to estimates from the Center for Migration Studies. Under DAPA, parents of US citizens or lawful permanent residents could be spared from deportation if they meet certain criteria, including continuous residency in the US since Jan. 1, 2010 and a clean record free of any criminal offenses. “DAPA would dramatically increase the number of aliens eligible for work authorization, thereby undermining Congress’s stated goal of closely guarding access to work authorization and preserving jobs for those lawfully in the country,” Smith wrote in his opinion. Meanwhile, the amended version of DACA was slated to include children brought to the United States before Jan. 1, 2010, notwithstanding their current age, and would have provided three years of relief. The original version of DACA,

Behind the ‘model minority’ myth... talks about the general success of the Asian American community. “It’s no secret that Asian Americans are disproportionately stars in American schools, and even in American society as a whole,” Kristof wrote. “Census data show that Americans of Asian heritage earn more than other groups, including whites. Asian Americans also have higher educational attainment than any other group.” Kristof argued the “Asian advantage” as how their intellectual stardom is “harnessed,” citing a study by University of Michigan professor and psychologist Richard E. Nisbett. “I’m pretty sure that one factor is East Asia’s long Confucian emphasis on education,” he said. He also cited familial ties as important to Asian Americans’

success, saying that strong, two-parent families contribute to economic and educational status. The interaction of social stereotypes and personal selfconfidence also play a role in “Asian scholastic success.” “Why should the success of the children of Asian doctors, nurtured by teachers, be reassuring to a black boy in Baltimore who is raised by a struggling single mom, whom society regards as a potential menace?” Kristof asked. “Disadvantage and marginalization are complex, often deeply rooted in social structures and unconscious biases, sometimes compounded by hopelessness and self-destructive behaviors, and because one group can access the American dream does not mean that all groups can.” Speaking for the NCAPA,

Two Filipinos charged with child trafficking...

PAGE A1 tos of the other minors stored in their flashdrive,” Aguto said, according to Inquirer. The NBI began its probe into

the matter after the FBI provided information about child pornography operations in the Philippines. The FBI also gave the NBI a copy of the Yahoo Messenger

chat conversation between Tandeg and an American pilot who was arrested for possessing the naked photos on his tablet, Michael Carey Clemans. The chat

which was introduced in 2012, remains intact and untouched by the lawsuit. The program is reserved for those who were born after 1981. After the Justice Department appeals the case, Texas would have 30 days to respond. Then, the Supreme Court must decide by January if it will hear the case before the term ends in June 2016. However, reports state that the legal proceedings narrow the chance that the executive actions could be implemented before Obama leaves office in 2017. “We obviously continue to believe strongly in the legal power of the arguments that we have been making for nearly a year, now, about the importance of giving our law-enforcement officials the discretion to implement our immigration laws in a way that focuses on those who pose a genuine threat to our national security or to our communities,” White House Press Secretary Josh Earnest told reporters on Tuesday. n Kang penned a response on Medium.com, saying the “Asian Advantage is a myth, plain and simple.” Asking why Asian Americans are so successful in America is not just an awkward question, it is “uninformed,” “perpetuates stereotypes,” and “divides Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) from the broader racial justice movement,” Kang wrote. He also referenced low levels of educational attainment among groups like the Cambodian, Vietnamese, and Hmong communities. US Census data shows that just 15.3 percent of Hmong Americans, 18 percent of Cambodian Americans, and 28.4 percent of Vietnamese Americans have obtained a bachelor’s degree or higher. Groups with higher levels of education include Indian Americans (72.5 percent), over half of PAGE A3 reportedly contained evidence of child prostitution and child pornography. “Working on that lead, the cybercrime operatives conducted further investigation and surveillance operations on Tandeg and her accomplices to confirm the veracity of the report and to determine the propriety of a counteraction,” Aguto said. After monitoring the suspects, the NBI found that Tandeg and Atad peddle children ages 8 to 12 years old for sex to foreign clients for P3,000 per night. Undercover agents who dealt with the two were offered a child for a nude photo shoot and sexual services, Aguto said. The agents asked Tandeg and her accomplices to meet at a coffee shop in Pampanga on Nov. 4. They also asked Tandeg to bring one girl to the meeting. After Tandeg and Atad provided the agents with a flash drive containing nude photos in exchange for P500, they were arrested. The NBI rescued three girls after the operation and turned them over to the Department of Social Welfare and Development and the International Justice Mission, a non-government human rights group, Philstar reported. Aguto said parents of the victims thought suspects were recruiting their children as models. He added that the NBI is conducting a manhunt operation on a man named Jeffrey Ganuten, who is allegedly instructing Tandeg. (Agnes Constante/AJPress)

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Dateline USa

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOvembeR 13-19, 2015

Growing up with a dog linked to New Report: Federal banking agencies must do more on diversity reduced risk of asthma, study says People of color, women “woefully absent” from senior management; Greenlining Institute urges action

WASHINGTON—A staff report released on Nov. 6 by Rep. Maxine Waters, ranking member of the House Committee on Financial Services, and members of the Congressional Black, Hispanic and Asian Pacific American Caucuses finds a disturbing lack of diversity in seven key federal agencies regulating the financial system. Policy experts at The Greenlining Institute said that the report, written by House Committee on Financial Services Democratic staff based on analyses by the Inspectors General at the agencies, should spur concerted action to increase diversity. The report finds that women and minorities are underrepresented in the agencies’ workforces and severely underrepresented in senior management positions. In addition, African American employees generally received lower performance management review (PMR) scores than their white counterparts. “We need concrete, practical

steps to identify and remove the barriers that keep people of color and women out of these important jobs,” said Greenlining Institute President Orson Aguilar. “It is critical that the agencies watching over our financial system reflect our nation’s growing diversity. The financial crash happened in large part because federal bank regulators missed what was going on in communities of color, and we can’t afford to continue this legacy of negligence.” In a letter sent today to leaders of the Federal Reserve Board of Governors, National Credit Union Administration, Securities and Exchange Commission, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of the Comptroller of the Currency, and Federal Housing Finance Agency, The Greenlining Institute and coalition partners outlined a series of steps the agencies should take. Among other suggestions, Greenlining urged the following:

American asks judge to determine... PAGE A1 In filing the motion, Arellano argued that it was clearly a “tanim bala” scam since the airport personnel clearly placed the ammunition into the foreigner’s luggage. “We believe that the bullet was locally made,” added the lawyer, noting that if White was really carrying the piece of metal, it would have been detected by the international screening counters they earlier passed. He added that they also submitted to the court video footages of the incident showing that White’s luggage went through the X-ray machine more than five times before the bullet was seen on the screen. “Garcia was also using his bare hands when searching the luggage instead of letting the owner unpack his belongings to check for the suspicious item,” Arellano added. White’s camp also earlier claimed that SPO2 Rolando Clarin of the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (Avsegroup) asked from them P30,000 in exchange for the American’s freedom. But since White did not agree

to give the amount, he was detained for six days at the Avsegroup detention cell. He was able to get out of jail after posting a P40,000 bail. Asked what White would do if the case against him was dropped, Arellano said he might file a case against the airport personnel. “But now he and his family are hoping that the Philippine government will do something about this “tanim bala” scheme because many foreigners will take this example as a consideration in investing money in the country,” added White’s lawyer. He noted that the government should give visiting individuals in the Philippines an assurance that they would be treated fairly in the country. “This is what we want to deliver to the government. Take immediate action now,” Arellano said. Gutierrez gave the Avsegroup personnel’s lawyers 10 days to comment, then another five days to Arellano to reply. “After that we will see if the case will be dismissed and take action against them [airport personnel],” the judge added.

Binay’s birthday wish... PAGE A1 A few months later, however, that same house burned down. Binay’s life changed upon the death of his mother and when they lost their house. Because he was orphaned, he was raised by his uncle in Makati City (Metro Manila) where he led a hard life among poor residents. He said that whenever he sees people doing odd jobs for a few coins, he would remember himself as a kid and his father. They used to collect those coins to buy pillows, pillow cases and other personal things. This “painful experience,” according to the Vice President, led him to vow that when he got appointed as mayor of Makati,

his administration would see to it no one in Makati would die because of poverty. “Hanggang ngayon sinasabi namin, sa Makati hindi dapat mamatay ang isang mahirap dahil sa hindi makabili ng gamot, hindi mapa-ospital. Hindi kahirapan ang dapat maging dahilan kung bakit namamatay ‘yong tao [Up to now, we say, in Makati, nobody should die because he is poor, because he cannot buy medicine, he cannot afford hospital expenses. Poverty should not be the reason for the death of a person],” Binay said. He also wished that Filipinos would be able to rise above poverty and create a better life for themselves.

Behind the ‘model minority’ myth... PAGE A2 Chinese Americans, and Korean Americans. A little less than half of Filipinos (48.1 percent) were also counted for, according to a Census study from 2012. Another often-ignored issue Kang points out is national poverty. “AAPIs are one of the fastestgrowing populations in poverty since the Great Recession. According to [a July 2014 report from] the Center for American Progress, from 2007 to 2011, the number of Asian Americans in poverty increased by 37 percent and Pacific Islanders by 60 percent— compared to the national increase of only 27 percent. And while Asian Americans’ median household income may be higher than whites, the rate of senior poverty is 13.5 percent for Asian Americans and 12.1 percent for Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders, compared to only 7.8 percent for whites,” he continued. Overall, the poverty rate for Asian Americans now is at 12.5 percent, well below the national rate of 15.5 percent. Among the different ethnicities, the rates vary significantly. Chinese Americans are at a 15.8 percent poverty level, while the Indians’ rate is 7.3 percent. The poverty rate for Filipino Americans is at roughly 5 percent, according to the Census Bureau,

although that number is expectedly higher. “There are still garment workers, and the people who give you your foot massage in Chinatown, there are still low-wage workers, said Sylvia Chong, director of the Asian Pacific American Studies minor program at the University of Virginia. “People don’t see that. That’s an economic underclass.” High household incomes among Asian Americans can also be explained by “the fact that some live in multi-generational homes with more than one person earning an income,” said Jennifer Lee, a sociology professor at the University of California at Irvine, and co-author of the book “The Asian-American Achievement Paradox.” “You have parents, grandparents, an aunt, some children.” “Kristof’s focus on the ‘Confucian emphasis on education’ is concerning,” she continued. “The underlying tenet is that if groups adopt ‘the right’ cultural values and behaviors, they too can succeed. This argument ignores a host of legal and institutional factors that help some groups get ahead more easily than others.” “These assumptions often fuel stereotypes of Asian Americans like the ‘model minority’ concept, which assumes that there PAGE A4

• Agencies must recognize that diversity programming doesn’t happen in a silo. Research shows that entities with inclusive workforces owe their success to comprehensive strategies that incorporate diversity into every aspect of their operations. This includes strong tracking, recruitment, and professional development systems. Each IG report puts forth recommendations for how the agencies can better diversify their systems. • The agencies’ Offices of Minority and Women Inclusion (OMWIs, created by the DoddFrank Act) should investigate barriers to employment in addition to discrimination, such as lack of outreach to diverse candidates. • OMWIs should push the agencies to plug gaps in their data collection. All but one IG report identified missing or flawed demographic data. • OMWIs should create specific accountability measures by which agencies can gauge their progress in diversifying their workforces. • Inspectors General should audit the agencies’ supplier diversity practices, and OMWIs should advise the agencies on how their policies impact diverse-owned businesses. (Greenlining)

by Agnes

ConstAnte AJPress

HAVING a dog in the home and contact with farm animals during a child’s earlier years can reduce their risk of asthma, according to new research. The study, published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics, examined data on over 1 million children born in Sweden – where dog and farm animal ownership registration is required by law – from 2001 to 2010. Researchers concluded that exposure to a dog in a child’s first year decreases the likelihood of asthma by 15 percent; living in close proximity to farm animals drops the risk by 52 percent. Findings back the “hygiene hypothesis,” which suggests that living in very clean environments According to a recent study, exposure to a dog in a child’s first year decreases the likelihood during early life can make people of asthma by 15 percent; living in close proximity to farm animals drops the risk by 52 percent. Inquirer.net photo more prone to allergy conditions, including asthma. Without early developing asthma by about half “Because we had access to such exposure to microbes and para- and that researchers wanted to see a large and detailed data set, we sites, according to the hypoth- if the relationship was the same for could account for confounding esis, the immune system may be children growing up with dogs in factors such as asthma in parents, stunted. their homes. area of residence and socio-eco“We know that children with “Our results confirmed the nomic status,” Fall said. established allergy to cats or dogs farming effect and we also saw Despite the study’s findings, should avoid them, but our results that children who grew up with Erika Kennington, head of research also indicate that children who dogs had about 15 [percent] less at Asthma UK, an asthma charity grow up with dogs have reduced asthma than children without in the United Kingdom, said adrisks of asthma later in life,” said dogs,” Fall said. ditional research is needed. Catarina Almqvist, co-author of the The study was made possible “Asthma is a complex condistudy from Sweden’s Karolinska because of Sweden’s organized tion with many different types Institute. system of national databases, and causes ... more research … Lead scientist Dr. Tove Fall from which are accessible to scientists. will help us better understand the Uppsala University in Sweden In addition to the documentation of effects so that it can be turned pointed out that previous studies farm animal ownership, each visit into practical advice for parents have indicated that growing up to specialist physicians and every of young children,” Kennington on a farm cuts a child’s chances of prescription issued is recorded. said.

november 13-19, 2015 • norCAL ASIAn JoUrnAL

Dateline USa

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Supervisor Kim and Forest City reach historic agreement on 5M: 40 percent affordability on private land

SAN FRANCISCO—For the first time in San Francisco history, 40 percent of all housing built on privately-held land will be accessible to the over 60 percent of San Franciscans who qualify for affordable housing. As a result of lengthy negotiations between the representative for District 6, Supervisor Jane Kim, and the developer Forest City, agreement was reached over the weekend to increase affordability from 33 percent to 40 percent for the 5M project in the heart of the South of Market neighborhood in District 6. “Earlier this year, I worked with the Giants to establish 40

percent affordability for housing built on public land. Today, we are setting another new standard. 40 is the new 30 when it comes to affordable housing whether you’re building on public or private land,” said Supervisor Jane Kim. “I support development in San Francisco but we have to build for San Franciscans. When the majority of San Franciscans qualify for affordable housing, that is who we should be building for and not just market rate luxury housing.” “As the affordability crisis continues, we are happy to support the 5 M development agreement because it includes substantial affordable and

workforce housing,” says UESF President Lita Blanc. “Such a balanced approach to housing is essential to ensure a place in San Francisco for teachers, paraprofessionals, and the families we serve.” “It’s so important that we have a neighborhood for people of all income levels. Getting to 40 percent for affordable housing, while keeping all the other benefits, is an example that other developers should follow,” said Stephanie Menchavez, Mint Mall resident leader. “Seniors like me and many others who live near the project are very excited and supportive about 5M. The new parks, cultural programs for

families and young people, and improvements that will make it safer to walk in the area are all incredible for the neighborhood.” “The project presented today is the result of continued work with the Supervisors, Mayor’s office and community to find ways for the neighborhood to grow for all income levels,” said Alexa Arena, senior vice president for Forest City. “This project now has an unprecedented affordable housing program for the immediate neighborhood and extensive benefits that address a wide range of community needs involving youth and cultural programs, open space,

transportation and pedestrian safety.” “Walk SF is grateful for Supervisor Kim’s partnership and leadership on the 5M project. Through close communication, we worked with 5M to ensure that the project will improve, rather than hinder, pedestrian safety in one of the most impacted communities in San Francisco. The project has significantly lowered their parking ratios, meaning more trips will be on transit, foot and bike, and is also building wider sidewalks, pedestrianized streets, and new crossings to cut up long SoMa blocks,” noted Nicole Ferrara, Executive Director.

Housing package for 5M: Affordable: 241 Units Market Rate: 601 Units – Up from 33 percent affordable housing, previously at 212 units. 168-186 Eddy Family Housing – 25 percent at 25 percent of AMI (30 units total – 18 units subsidized permanently by private developer); 75 percent at 50 percent of AMI (53 units). Senior Housing Fund – Land Dedication and Funding – 100 percent at 50 percent of AMI (83 units). M2 Building (on-site rental building) – 87 units for middleincome households with mix of bedroom unit sizes from studios to 2 bedrooms.

FDA approves new drug to treat HIV Fil-Am businessman re-elected to by Agnes

ConstAnte AJPress

THE Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Thursday, Nov. 5, approved a new drug to treat HIV in patients 12 years of age and older. The drug, Genvoya, is a fixeddose combination tablet that treats HIV-1 in adults and pediatric patients weighing at least 77 pounds, who have never previously taken HIV therapy and HIV-infected adults whose HIV1 virus is currently suppressed. Genvoya contains elvitegravir, cobicistat, emtricitabine and tenofovir alafenamide.

“Today’s approval of a fixed dose combination containing a new form of tenofovir provides another effective, once daily complete regimen for patients with HIV-1 infection,” Edward Cox, director of the Office of Antimicrobial Products in the FDA’s Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, said in a statement. The new form of tenofovir in Genvoya has not been previously approved. It provides lower levels of tenofovir on the bloodstream, but higher levels within cells where HIV-1 replicates, according to an FDA release. The safety of the drug was eval-

Behind the ‘model minority’ myth... PAGE A3 must be something intrinsic about Chinese culture or Asian culture that are producing these outcomes. They don’t understand how status and educational attainment is reproduced from one generation to the next.” Asian Americans who don’t fit the mold of the “model minority”, according to US standards-perfect, high-achieving, hardworking, and brilliant at the maths and sciences—can “face devastating consequences,” Lee added. “They feel like ethnic outliers and they feel like failures if they don’t live up to the standards.” Many groups within the larger Asian community often go unnoticed or harshly ignored, such as undocumented immigrants living in US borders. “I feel like there is a lot of stig-

ma, especially in our own Filipino community, that we don’t seek out the help from others that we should. There aren’t many [Asian Americans] that apply [for deferred action], many who are still living in fear,” said Madeleine Villanueva, 22, an openly undocumented Filipina student at the University of California, Berkeley. “Overall, the Asian experience of being undocumented is different; you don’t think ‘undocumented’ when you see an Asian American person. You think ‘model minority’.” “Although there has been progress in the last couple of years, there is still a lot of moving forward that needs to be done,” Villaneuva continued. As for representation, Kang reminded readers of the very real problems faced by the broader Asian American community, citing an infographic by

uated through four clinical trials involving 3,171 participants. Individuals were randomly assigned to take either Genvoya or another FDA-approved HIV treatment. Results indicated that the new drug effectively decreased viral loads and was comparable to other treatment options. An estimated 1.2 million people aged 13 and older have HIV, according to the Centers for Disease Control, while an additional 150,000 people in the same age range are infected with the virus but are unaware of it. Genvoya is not recommended for patients with severe kidney impairment. n the Leadership Education for Asian Pacifics (LEAP). Although 18.5 million AAPIs live in the US (about 6 percent of the total population), AAPIs represent just 2.6 percent of corporate board leaders, 2 percent of executive officers in Fortune 500 companies, and zero percent of executive directorships and CEOs at the top 100 nonprofits and foundations. At least 77.2 percent of Fortune 500 companies have zero AAPI representation on their boards, according to LEAP. “By promoting the model minority myth and the positive stereotype that AAPIs have been ‘so successful’ and ‘disproportionately stars,’ [Kristof] creates burdens on our entire community,” Kang said, “masking the real needs within our community and brushing away the discrimination and bamboo ceiling that we continue to confront.” (Allyson Escobar/AJPress)

Virginia House of Delegates

SAN FRANCISCO – Filipino American Republican Ron Villanueva, 45, was re-elected Tuesday, November 3 to the Virginia House of Delegates, defeating challenger Susan Hippen. Villanueva, a small-business owner and former Virginia

Beach City Councilman, defeated Democratic challenger Susan Hippen, whom he also defeated for the same 21st District seat in 2013. Villanueva has been a state delegate since 2009 representing constituencies in Virginia

Beach and Chesapeake. He ran on jobs and the economy. Hippen, a retired Navy master chief, ran on issues like Medicaid expansion and earned the endorsement of the Virginia Education Association. (Inquirer.net)

Cool storm to bring chilly rains to LA by Allyson

esCobAr

AJPress

RAIN, lightning and snow hit parts of Northern California on Monday, Nov. 9, and a cold, wet storm was expected to bring chilly temperatures and scattered showers to Southern California. More than 500 lightning strikes and strong wind gusts were reported over the Bay Area, prompting an airport weather warning due to the thunderstorms, according to the Los Angeles Times and the National Weather Service. “This strange combination of seemingly unending heat, humidity, and large contrasts between extreme dryness occasional flash flooding is largely the result of record warm Pacific Ocean temperatures, which are still well into the 70s across the Southern California Bight and have even approached 80 degrees at times this calendar year,” said Daniel Swain on WeatherWest.com’s California Weather Blog. Forecasters advised drivers to avoid the Sierra Nevada mountain pass, where some canyons above 5,000-foot elevation were

expected to get 8-10 inches of snow, through the early part of the week. Chains or snow tires are required on most mountain highways around Lake Tahoe on the California-Nevada border, said NBC Bay Area. Up to on foot of snow at the highest peaks was predicted through Monday night. Heavy snow and flash flooding could also potentially affect areas recently scarred by wildfires, officials said. The low-pressure weather system, combined with the effects of tropical storm El Niño, is bringing winter conditions to California. Temperatures in the Bay Area and Central California are expected to dip into the 40s. As the storm moves south into Santa Barbara, Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego counties, it will lose steam, according to NWS meteorologist Kathy Hoxsie. “Southern California could get a drizzling of light showers, and thunderstorms may come to parts of Santa Barbara County,” Hoxsie said. Temperatures are also ex-

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pected to drop, with highs ranging from the high 60s to low 70s in the early part of the week, as “a trough of low pressure moves through Santa Barbara, San Luis Obispo, Los Angeles and Ventura counties,” said Scott Sukup, an NWS meteorologist in Oxnard. “By the weekend, the cold front will be replaced by dry and warm weather, and temperatures could reach into the 80s Saturday,” Hoxsie added. “You gotta enjoy it while you can.” “There is no guarantee that this coming winter will turn out as wet as those of 1982-83 and 1997-98, and other factors aside from El Nino will play an important role,” wrote weather historian Christopher C. Burt, for Weather Underground. “Even if record or near-record precipitation…does occur, it is unlikely to end the current drought affecting the state.” “Of critical importance is how much of the precipitation falls as snow in the Sierra Nevada. If the storms are warm and the rain falls in just a series of intense storms much of the benefit will be lost to run-off into the Pacific Ocean.” n

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SC reverses Ombudsman suspension of Junjun by Edu

Punay

Philstar.com

MANILA—Dismissed Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr. has won his case in the Supreme Court (SC) against the Office of the Ombudsman in relation to his earlier preventive suspension over alleged anomaly in the Makati City Hall Building 2 project. In its decision against the suspension order on Binay, the Supreme Court (SC) allowed the application of the condonation doctrine or Aguinaldo doctrine. The doctrine has been a common defense invoked by elected officials in evading liabilities for acts committed in their previous terms in office. It effectively extinguishes a reelected official’s administrative liability from alleged wrongdoing during a previous term. The SC conceived of the doctrine in an October 1959 decision. A court insider bared that the justices decided in session to abandon the doctrine, but only for future cases. Binay could use the latest SC ruling in questioning the Ombudsman’s subsequent dismissal order against him, the source stressed. The SC insider further revealed that the high court also upheld the power of the Court of Appeals (CA) to review and stop administrative orders of the Office of the Ombudsman on cases against officials. The abandonment of the doctrine would be prospective in application, as agreed upon by the majority of justices during the voting, the source said. This means the doctrine will apply in Binay’s case but he will be the last to benefit from it.

Duterte continues to blow hot, cold on presidential run by nancy

c. carvajal Inquirer.net

Dismissed Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay Jr.

The SC rejected the position of Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales that the condonation doctrine cannot apply in Binay’s case. Binay invoked the doctrine in questioning the preventive suspension order issued by the Ombudsman. Last month, the Ombudsman ordered the dismissal from service of Mayor Binay over the controversy. Binay had argued that the alleged anomalies were committed during the first and second phases of the project when he was not yet mayor of the city. The third and fourth phases, on the other hand, were then undertaken during his previous term from 2010 to 2013. The SC, the source said, has also rejected the position of Morales that only the high court can review and stop her orders on administrative cases based on Section 14 of Republic Act No. 6770 (Ombuds-

man Act). Such provision in the Ombudsman law was declared ineffective as Congress did not consult the SC in approving it, according to the ruling penned by Associate Justice Estela Perlas-Bernabe. The SC issued the ruling in response to a petition filed by the ombudsman questioning the orders of the CA stopping the ombudsman’s first preventive suspension order against Mayor Binay. In her petition last March, Morales assailed the temporary restraining order (TRO) and writ of preliminary injunction (WPI) issued by the CA stopping her suspension order against Binay. The SC heard the case in oral arguments during summer session in Baguio City last April before four justices—Presbitero Velasco Jr., Diosdado Peralta, Arturo Brion and Francis Jardeleza—decided to inhibit from the case.

A MONTH after the deadline for filing of candidacies for next year’s polls, supporters of Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte continue to try and convince him to run for President—and they are receiving ample help from the man himself who denies he is running but would talk for half an hour about his platform and solutions to the country’s problems. Duterte, the guest of honor at the post-birthday party of vice presidential candidate Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano on Monday, Nov. 9 at the Cayetano home in Taguig City, added to speculations he would run when he opened his speech by saying the presidency was destiny and what God wants he will accept. ‘It’s destiny’ “I have enough accolades to last me a lifetime. But if God puts me there and you put me there, it’s destiny,” Duterte told Cayetano’s guests composed of top businessmen, former military officers and politicians of various stripes. “Ten percent really will be my decision, but whatever it is, the 90 percent will belong to God,” he said. Duterte, who said he was supporting the vice presidential bid of Cayetano, asserted that what he would want to change is the attitude of some Filipinos who had lost the fear of being sanctioned. “No more fear to commit wrong. Obedience to the law today is just really an option. If you

THE BIRTHDAY BOY, BOW! Vice presidential contender Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano bows to his guest, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, during the senator’s 45th birthday party on Tuesday, Nov. 10 in Taguig City. Cayetano met with Duterte in September to discuss their possible team-up but the mayor has repeatedly said he is not running. Inquirer.net photo by Richard Reyes

don’t want to follow it, fine. Kung malakas ka naman, mayaman ka, milyonaryo ka (If you are influential, rich, a millionaire) you can do that. Whatever smuggling OK din iyan, alam mo lulusot ka (you know you’ll get away with it),” he said. Duterte added to the speculations about his plans when he said, “Huwag kang magsalita ng tapos sa amin. Ibig sabihin the will of God (Don’t rule anything out. I mean the will of God).” ‘Take a chance’ The mayor, who is known to talk tough, said that if he decided to run for President and won, “I will not settle for nothing happening on my watch.” “You know, what you are asking me to do really is gamble with my freedom. I fear that I will fail and I don’t want to be humiliated for not being able to stop all the crimes and misery of the people,” he said.

‘Give us a choice for 2016’ Cayetano, in his response to Duterte’s speech, asked the mayor to take a chance. “The point, mayor, is that we don’t have a choice. We keep telling people we want real change but they’re not given real choices,” Cayetano said. “Give us a choice for 2016.” When asked what he discussed with Duterte, Cayetano said he believed Duterte was really concerned about his family but he was also pondering solutions to the country’s problems. “I think that I am smart enough to know that anything I might say he has already heard, any kind of political computation and support and scenario building. I am just there to continue to assure him that if he decides, we will have people who will think of programs, who will get his ideas and put it into a system,” Cayetano said.

Ballsy, Pinky, Viel, Kris fill role of Aquino’s first lady by nikko

dizon Inquirer.net

AGAIN, IT’S going to be one of those days when a first lady would be needed. But there being none, President Aquino’s sisters would be around to quickly fill the role. Presidential sisters Ballsy Aquino-Cruz, Pinky Aquino-Abelleda, Viel Aquino-Dee and Kris Aquino will be on hand to make sure the wives of the leaders of the Asia-

Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum will have a memorable stay in the Philippines. Ambassador Marciano Paynor Jr., director general of the APEC National Organizing Council, said President Aquino being a bachelor, “his sisters are hosting all of the spouses of the leaders who are coming here.” “The Presidential sisters are planning and making suggestions

as to how they’d like to host the spouses who are coming,” Paynor said. In all likelihood, all eyes would be on the youngest of the Aquino sisters—the gregarious Kris, who is even a bigger celebrity than her brother. Kris, even as a celebrity, and her sisters have all managed to keep a low profile when it comes to being part of the first family.

They are hardly seen at the Palace, except for official functions, when the presence of a first lady, or in their case, a “first sister,” is required. Paynor said the President’s sisters would host a lunch and a tour of Intramuros, the historic place “being part of our heritage,” for the leaders’ spouses. “They will be allowed to have their own time to go shopping,” Paynor said.

The Aquino sisters (from left) Viel, Pinky, Kris and Ballsy

november 13-19, 2015 • norCAL ASIAn JoUrnAL

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OpiniOn

Features

Laughingstock

WITH the rising number of alleged victims of the notorious “tanim bala” (bullet planting) scam at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), it is no surprise that this peculiar security threat has reached international headlines. Just this year, the Philippine National Police-Aviation security group (PNP-AVseg) recorded 105 alleged “tanim bala” incidents, while the Manila international Airport Authority (MiAA) reported five cases in the past two weeks. Fox News anchor greta Van susteren said that she was warned by her Filipino-American friend that international travelers are targeted by Filipino airport security officials who plant live ammunition in their luggage. “i know what you’re thinking: what is wrong with some people? My answer? i just don’t know,” susteren said in her segment “Off the Record.” Over the weekend, a video posted by Facebook user shinjoy Martinez went viral. the video recorded a Japanese television program reenacting how bullets are planted into the luggage of unsuspecting passengers. the host of the show said that the “tanim bala” scam has been going on for years and that many Japanese nationals have become victims. the extortion scheme, which involves airport security personnel who plant bullets in order to extort money from passengers caught with the bullet inside their luggage, has become so apparent and undaunted that tips on “how to avoid being a ‘tanim-bala’ victim” have circulated online. the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has issued tips for air passengers to avoid falling prey to the “tanim bala” scam. CAAP spokesperson eric Apolonio told ABs-CBN News that passengers are advised to strictly monitor all their luggage and never allow strangers to handle them. He said all zippers, pouches, and pockets of their luggage must be closed, locked and sealed

so that if the seal gets broken, a passenger will immediately notice that his bag was opened without his permission. For the United Nations department of safety and security (UNdss), it warned its staff “to keep your luggage with you, lock your luggage, and consider wrapping your luggage in plastic as an extra security measure” when leaving through the international airport. this brouhaha is so ludicrous that for Atty. Joseph Plazo, here are ways to avoid being victim of “tanim-bala” scam: Use hard-case luggage, avoid bags that have external pockets. Wrap the entire bag in cling wrap. Let the officials go through your bag—but only in the presence of witnesses, a lawyers, and official’s supervisor. You have the right to remain silent. And know your legal rights. Meanwhile, NAiA airport screeners turned to divine intervention. Wearing pink armbands, the airport personnel attended a Mass on Friday, Nov. 6 to appeal for understanding in the midst of public outrage and ridicule. “We have been pilloried, demonized and shamed by these allegations, which is why we are seeking divine intervention to spare us. there is no truth to the allegations,” said edgar Anas, national president of the employees Association of transport security. Malacañang acknowledged that the “tanim bala” controversy has been blown out of proportion and drew international ire. “Unfortunately, these are unintended consequences of the attention that this has generated,” spokesperson Abigail Valte said. “We are hoping that the effects will not be last-

Editorial

ManilaTimes.net photo

ing, will not have a long-term effect on what our country is trying to do to promote the Philippines as a tourist destination,” she said. Amid all the unwanted attention, Valte assured that the national government has taken steps to address the problem. the proliferation of the “tanim-bala” cases re-

quires urgent attention. All eyes are on the national government to assess the lingering problem and come up with effective solutions to alleviate the growing concern on the country’s airport security challenges. For now, those who have marked the Philippines as their next destination are asked to remain vigilant. (AJPress)

What to do when you get victimized by the ‘laglag bala’ scam at NAIA email exMY husband and i are visiting changes the Philippines this december, The Fil-Am and On as many kababayans plan to do social meas well, but the excitement of Perspective dia among this year’s trip is dampened by those who the “laglag bala” scam at the are travNinoy Aquino international Aireling to port in Manila. M a n i l a this issue has become an in- Gel SantoS-ReloS for either ternational concern, having been reported by international media, and business or pleasure. the big question with the United Nations issuing a warn- resonates a plea for help, a longing for ing to its staff about how they may be empowerment. “What should we do if this happens victimized by some unscrupulous people at the NAiA, who would allegedly to us?” such cry for help is a result of the “plant” live bullet in passengers’ baggage. the bullet would be found dur- Philippine government’s initial dismising security inspection, and then money sive and defensive response to the probwould be extorted from passengers who lem. some officials say in news reports rather pay a few dollars rather than miss that this problem is but a small percenttheir flights or they would be detained age of the total sheer volume of passengers who have used the NAiA to travel, for days for a crime they did not do. My own children, who get their news others blame it on the passengers who via mainstream media and online news bring “bala” for anting-anting (talisman) sources, already warned us as well about believed to give protection to the travit. this has also been a hot topic among eler.

While both may be true in some cases, the fact remains that there are those who have been victimized, and were asked to pay money “under the table” so this case would “go away”. A good family friend (a Filipina who is now a legal resident of the Us) who was on a wheelchair when she traveled from Manila to LAX last september became a victim. Confused, scared and intimidated, but definitely NOt guilty of bringing the “bala” that was planted in her luggage, she decided to give the $12 (Php500) that was asked of her, and then exposed this scam when she arrived in LA via social media. she was the first one to bring this problem to the attention of mainstream and social media. she is pressing charges/complaint to help put an end to this fiasco. But the scam did not stop. in fact, more people have been victimized — foreigners, overseas Filipino workers, the elderly. One foreigner who is a young American missionary chose NOt to pay the money that was asked of him

(Php 30,000), and he was detained for more than four days. He has sought legal representation to file charges against those airport personnel for trying to extort money from him and for violating airport inspection protocol (recorded on video). thankfully, there are many well meaning lawyers who are now offering pro bono services for travelers who may get caught in this situation. in case you or your loved ones become one of the unfortunate ones, here are the things to remember (from ABsCBN News): it is OK to react but stAY CALM. FiRMLY deNY prior knowledge of the bullet. seeK LegAL COUNseL from the Public Attorneys’ Office (PAO) through hotlines 929-9436 or 02-929-9436. [Call your own attorney if you have one] NeVeR tOUCH tHe BULLet to avoid leaving your fingerprint on it. dO NOt OPeN YOUR BAg without your lawyer, witnesses, and the airport

police or the supervisor of the security personnel. iNFORM ReLAtiVes ANd FRieNds of your situation. Have your fingerprint samples taken ONLY iN FRONt OF YOUR LAWYeR ANd POLiCe OFFiCiALs. iF your fingerprint is NOt FOUNd on the bullet, CHARges MAY Be FiLed against the airport personnel. You will also be entitled to financial compensation for the disturbance and lost time. Airport authorities will also be LiABLe tO ReBOOK YOUR FLigHt. sHARe tHis iNFORMAtiON around. good luck! sana mabigyan na ng solusyon ng gobyerno ang problemang ito para maging totoo muli na “it is MORe FUN iN tHe PHiLiPPiNes!” *** 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

Disenfranchisement in the era of automated elections RegisteRed voters must be able to exercise the right to vote freely and each ballot must be counted. the Commission on elections (Comelec) encourages citizens qualified to vote to register or to update their registration records by having their biometrics—photo, signature, and fingerprints—captured and recorded electronically. Comelec launched its “No Bio, No Boto” campaign. the campaign slogan simply means that if a citizen who is already a registered voter but does not submit to biometrics collection, he cannot exercise his right to vote. the basis of this campaign is the Mandatory Biometrics Registration Law. the biometrics registration period ended last October 31, 2015. the Comelec estimates that there are still about 2.5 million to 3 million registered voters without biometrics data. in fairness to Comelec, the 2.5 million to 3 million registered voters without biometrics data may include voters who had passed on to the next life, double registrants, or voters who have moved to another jurisdiction but opted to file a new registration instead of applying for transfer of registration. still, this is a big number. Come election day, these voters will not be allowed to vote. is the “No Bio, No Boto” a form

last two elections of disenfranchisement is not available. sanctioned by law?And Commentary the Comelec has what about the biometto address PCOs rics data of registered machine ballot voters that have been rejection for the inadvertently destroyed 2016 Presidenor corrupted? Will these tial elections and voters be allowed to vote ensure that each in the 2016 Presidential Lito AveriA ballot is counted. elections? Will the Comelec implement an exPCOS machines PCOs machine ballot rejection is ception handling process that will alperhaps another form of voter dis- low the counting of votes from ballots enfranchisement. some voters in the that have been rejected by the PCOs 2010 and 2013 elections complained machine and incorporate the results that the PCOs machine had rejected of the count with the PCOs count? the their ballots for no apparent reason. voting public will have to wait and see After having been cleared by the if the Comelec will do anything to corBoard of election inspectors (Bei) and rect this deficiency. A new form of disenfranchisement after the Bei Chairman issued the voter his ballot, the PCOs machine would of voters arose from the failure of refuse to take in his ballot. in infor- some PCOs machines to transmit the mation technology industry practice, precinct election results. some would ballot rejection by the PCOs machine argue that the failure to transmit refor no apparent reason may be regard- sults does not fall within the definition ed as an exception condition for which of disenfranchisement since the afan exception handling process may be fected voters were able to cast their put in place. there was no exception votes and the PCOs machine had handling process instituted in the last completed counting the votes. A valid two elections. the PCOs machine re- argument indeed but if the precinct election results were not transmitted jected ballots were simply set aside. Unfortunately, data on how many and not incorporated in the canvass, voters were deprived of their right the affected ballots are effectively not to vote by the PCOs machine in the counted. the affected voters were de-

prived of the full exercise of the right to vote. the impact? Records show that in 2010, 92 percent of PCOs machines transmitted election returns. deployed were 78,347 PCOs machines with an average of 667 voters per machine. this translates to 4.18 million ballots not included in the consolidation. in 2013, 12.27 million ballots may not have been included in the consolidation because only 76 percent of PCOs machines successfully transmitted the election returns. there were 76,875 PCOs machines with an average 665 voters each. Comelec officials are quick to point out, however, that the election returns, perceived not to have been transmitted in the 2013 elections, were fully accounted for. is Comelec taking steps to ensure that all PCOs machines transmit election returns to the assigned city or municipal canvassing server, to the central server, and the transparency server? Comelec Chairman Andres Baustista is reportedly eyeing a transmission rate of 90 percent, which, he further said, is better than the transmission performance of 76 percent in 2013. But this is still under the 92 percent transmission rate in 2010. Why not shoot for100 percent transmission?

the transmission facility was not fully tested prior to the 2010 and 2013 elections. Neither was there any endto-end test of the automated election system in the last two national elections. the Comelec should require a full end-to-end test of the automated election system including transmission from PCOs machines to the assigned city or municipal canvassing servers, central server, and transparency server; and through the canvassing hierarchy for the 2016 Presidential elections with special focus in areas where the PCOs machines failed to transmit in 2010 and 2013. Comelec should also test alternative transmission devices and electronic transmission modes. the Comelec should also exert all efforts to identify potential points of failure in the whole automated election system and devise contingency actions that may be taken. Let’s face it. technology has had a profound impact on society. But the use of election and election-related technologies in Philippine elections gave birth to new forms of disenfranchisement. Comelec must take measures so that the occurrence of these new forms of disenfranchisement are minimized if not totally prevented. (ManilaTimes.net)

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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Dateline PhiliPPines

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOvembeR 13-19, 2015

DISABILITY IS NO BAR. A disabled examinee is wheeled inside the University of Santo Tomas in Manila for the first day of the Bar exams. The Supreme Court said 7,146 law graduates will be taking the tests to be held on four consecutive Sundays. Inquirer.net photo by DJ Diosina

Government hit for snail-paced Yolanda rehab by Alexis

RomeRo Philstar.com

MANILA—Climate activists have assailed the Aquino administration for what it described as “snail-paced” rehabilitation of areas ravaged by Super Typhoon Yolanda two years ago. In a statement, the Philippine Movement for Climate Justice complained that no one has been punished for the alleged anomalies surrounding the relief efforts. “It has been two years since Yolanda made landfall and it seems as if the administration has long moved on from the wreckage caused by the storm,” Philippine Movement for Climate Justice legal counsel Aaron Pedrosa said. “While the Ombudsman has consistently dismissed and suspended various officials, no one

has been held accountable for the anomalies surrounding the relief operations as per the findings of the Commission on Audit (CoA) and this whole failure of a rehabilitation,” he added. The government’s relief and rehabilitation efforts in affected communities have been plagued with allegations of mismanagement and corruption. Among the issues raised by critics were the supposed failure to deliver aid on time, the alleged irregularities in the awarding of contracts, food packs that were reportedly lost to spoilage, unused cash donations, and alleged anomalies in the distribution of shelters. The movement also scored the increased corporate participation in the rehabilitation efforts, which, it claimed, allowed the proliferation of resorts and similar busi-

nesses in the typhoon-hit areas. But the government has claimed gains in the rehabilitation of areas struck by the super typhoon. Close to 12,000 houses for survivors have been completed while more than 77,000 others are undergoing construction, according to the National Economic and Development Authority. A total of 115,309 housing units are still in various stages of procurement. NEDA also said the government has provided emergency shelter assistance to more than 717,000 families. The government also claimed to have distributed more than 47,000 boats, close to 76,000 sets of fishing gear and paraphernalia, more than 14,000 farm tools, 138 tractors and other machineries, and more than 92,000 bags of seeds.

Grace Poe: Our evidence will stand by TinA

G. sAnTos Inquirer.net

SEN. GRACE Poe on Tuesday , Nov. 10 attended the hearing for one of the petitions filed against her at the Commission on Elections (Comelec) questioning her qualification to run for President in next year’s polls. “All the evidence we are presenting are true. We did not invent them. That is why we are confident they will stand,” Poe told reporters in Filipino after the closed-door hearing on the petition for disqualification filed by lawyer Estrella Elamparo. Poe said she believed the truth would eventually come out since

the case was politically motivated. “What I have been fighting for is the opportunity to serve and help our fellow Filipinos. I believe all this is happening in an attempt to divert my attention from what I can do for our people,” she added, also in Filipino. Despite being confident she would be able to hurdle the cases questioning her citizenship and residency, Poe admitted she was hurt by Elamparo’s assertion that she should be considered “stateless” and therefore not qualified to run for president. “Of all the things she said, perhaps the most hurtful was when she said that I am stateless. It means that I don’t belong to any

country. Even refugees have a place they came from,” she said. Poe was referring to Elamparo’s statement during the hearing when she was asked by Comelec Commissioner Arthur Lim if she believed that Poe was “stateless.” “She is at best presumed to be a Filipino but definitely not naturalborn,” replied Elamparo. Elamparo said there was no existing or binding law that clearly identified Poe as a natural-born citizen since she was a foundling or a child that had been abandoned and found. “There is a legal vacuum in our system that does not seem to address the status of foundlings,” Elamparo said.

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COMMUNITY

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

Your Immigration Solution Atty. RobeRt Reeves MAy ZhAng, DiZA AnD nAncy MilleR PRESIDENT Obama has repeatedly called for Congress to address the need for Comprehensive Immigration Reform (CIR). As we head into the holiday season, Paul Ryan, the newly-minted Speaker of the House, responded with what is, essentially, coal in the stocking. He said that no comprehensive immigration reform bill will be introduced or entertained in the House while President Obama is in the White House. So, CIR is not on the horizon. However, there are still numerous ways to obtain a green card right now. At Reeves Miller Zhang & Diza we would encourage everyone to fully explore all of their options. The following examples are just a few ways to obtain a green card. One option is a family-based immigrant petition. Immediate relatives (spouse, unmarried child under the age of 21or parent if the US citizen is over the age of 21) of US citizens (USCs) have special immigration priority and do not have to wait in line for a visa number to become available for them to immigrate. Family petitions for spouses and unmarried children of lawful permanent residents (LPRs), for married sons and daughters of USC.s and for brothers and sisters of USC.s are also possible although there is a waiting time before they become available. How long varies depending on the category and the country of origin. Immediate relatives (IR) who entered the US with inspection are able to obtain their green card in the United States. This process is called adjustment of status. If the foreign citizen has to return home to complete their immigration process, they can now seek a provisional waiver of the 10 year unlawful presence bar

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 13-19, 2015

Journal Do I have any hope It’s your life: Treat your diabetes well to get legal status?

that will be tripped when they leave to United States to consular process. Provisional waivers allow the applicant to submit the request from inside the US and wait for the decision here. Once approved, the applicant departs for their immigrant visa interview at a US Consulate. This waiver avoids lengthy separation of family members. The provisional waiver applies to aliens who entered the United States without papers, who came in on a crewman visa, who entered the United States on a fiancé visa but did not marry their petitioner and who entered on a visa but overstayed or violated the visa and are not in the immediate relative category. Other waivers are available for those with various other grounds of inadmissibility. Those who entered the United States using false information or false documentation and can show that their USC or LPR parent or spouse would suffer extreme hardship may be able to get a waiver. Non-citizens who have convictions for various criminal offenses may be able to obtain a waiver if they can show that their USC or LPR parent, spouse or son or daughter would suffer extreme hardship. Due to some recent court decisions, many non-citizens may be eligible for criminal conviction waivers even if they were not before. Waivers also exist for those who obtained their green cards through false information and want to clear their record so they can naturalize. Another option is cancellation of removal. Cancellation of removal allows qualified individuals to obtain a green card if they have lived in the US for at least ten years, have good moral character and can show that their US citizen, or Lawful Permanent Resident parent, spouse or child would suffer

exceptional and extremely unusual hardship if the applicant were forced to leave the United States. Applicants are eligible to obtain employment authorization as soon as their application is filed. With work authorization, one may apply for a social security number, work legally and obtain a state-issued driver’s license. Non-citizens who are studying in the United States may be able to turn that education into both a non-immigrant work visa and a green card depending on what they are studying. While not technically lawful status, another option is Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (“DACA”). DACA is available to a person who: (1) was under the age of 31 as of June 15, 2012; (2) entered the US before the age of 16; (3) has resided in the US since June 15, 2007 up to the present date; (4) is currently out of status; (5) is in school or has graduated from school in the US (or is a veteran of the Coast Guard or Armed Forces); and, (7) has not been convicted of a felony or a significant misdemeanor. More than one million individuals obtain legal permanent resident status each year. In order to find out if you could be one of them, consult with a knowledgeable and experienced immigration attorney. *** 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)

NOVEMBER is National Diabetes Month. Make it your time to take charge of your type 1 or type 2 diabetes for a longer, healthier life. Preventive care for people with diabetes—and for the risk factors that cause related health problems—has improved significantly over the past 20 years, and people are living longer and better with the disease. But living longer can mean having other health problems longer, too. Good management over a lifetime is the key, starting with the day you’re told you have diabetes. Get in the know There are three main types of diabetes: type 1, type 2, and gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant). With type 1 diabetes, your body can’t make insulin, so you need to take insulin every day. Type 1 diabetes is less common than type 2 diabetes; about 5 percent of the people who have diabetes have type 1. Currently, no one knows how to prevent type 1 diabetes. More than 29 million people in the United States have diabetes, but 1 out of 4 don’t know they have it. Most people with diabetes—9 out of 10—have type 2 dia-

betes. With type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t use insulin well and is unable to keep blood sugar at normal levels. If you have any of these risk factors, ask your doctor if you should be tested for diabetes. The sooner you find out, the sooner you can start making healthy changes that will benefit you now and in the future. Risk factors include: • Being overweight. • Being 45 years or older. • Having a parent or sibling with type 2 diabetes. • Being physically active less than 3 times a week. • Ever having gestational diabetes or giving birth to a baby that weighed more than 9 pounds. • Race and ethnicity also affect your risk. African Americans, Hispanic/Latino Americans, American Indians, Pacific Islanders, and some Asian Americans are at particularly high risk for type 2 diabetes. You’ve been diagnosed with diabetes. Now what? Learning how to take care of your type 2 diabetes shouldn’t happen only when you’re diagnosed; it should be a lifelong focus. And as you get older, your treatment may need to change.

Managing diabetes from the beginning can mean fewer health problems later on. It’s a balancing act—food, activity, medicine, and blood sugar levels—but one you can master. Manage your diabetes throughout the day by: • Following a healthy eating plan, including eating more fruits and vegetables and less sugar and salt. • Getting physically active— 10 to 20 minutes a day is better than only an hour once a week. • Taking diabetes medicine as prescribed by your doctor. • Testing your blood sugar regularly to understand and track how food, activity, and medicine affect your blood sugar levels. Know your ABCs Work with your doctor to manage your diabetes ABCs, and keep a record of your numbers. Results will help determine if your treatment plan is working and you’re able to stay in your target range—for example, an A1C of 7 percent or less—or if adjustments need to be made. Staying on track will help lower your risk of additional health problems.

u PAGE CJ2

Women-owned businesses are gaining economic impact and clout A NATIONAL Women’s Business Council analysis of US Census data from the 2012 Survey of Business Owners shows significant growth since 2007. As of 2012, there are 9.9 million women-owned businesses – a 27.5 percent rise. The analysis also showed that Women-owned businesses generated 1.6 trillion in total receipts, which is up from 1.2 trillion in 2007. An increase of 35 percent! For comparison, male-owned businesses saw an increase of 33%. While sole proprietorships account for 89.4 percent of businesses owned by women, employee hiring has also increased by 19.5 percent. African-American women

own more than 1.5 million businesses across the US, a 67.5 percent jump from 2007. There are 1.48 million Hispanic women-owned businesses in the US, an increase of 87.31 percent since 2007. And 754,874 Asian American women own businesses, up 44.3 percent from 2007. Another area of tremendous growth was in veteran women-owned businesses, which increased by 206 percent from 2007 to a total of 384,548 businesses nationwide. Over 100 Women’s Business Centers across the country offer counseling, business training and other services to women in business in all 50 states. The

Center for Rural Affairs’ REAP Women’s Business Center has been proudly serving the women of Nebraska as part of the association since 2001. Visit www.cfra.org for more information about the REAP Women’s Business Center and other Center for Rural Affairs programs. Established in 1973, the Center for Rural Affairs is a private, non-profit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues. (By Monica Braun / Center for Rural Affairs)

Community Journal

NOVEMBER 13-19, 2015 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

The CTV Files Atty. Dennis ChuA, esq. A STEPPARENT may file an immigrant petition for a stepchild even without the stepparent having to legally adopt the stepchild. However, before a stepparent may be able to file an immigrant petition for a stepchild, the stepparent – stepchild relationship should have been created before a stepchild turns 18 years old. This means that the stepparent and the biological parent of the stepchild must get married before the child turns 18 years old. If the petitioner can no longer file an immigrant petition for the stepchild because the child has turned 18 years old, the child can still be petitioned by the biological parent after she obtains his or her permanent residency status. The significance of having a US citizen stepparent file for a stepchild is so that they could avoid the visa backlogs for visa petitions filed by legal permanent residents for their minor children (2d preference category). But

Petitioning children of your spouse from a previous marriage considering the current visa priority dates being processed under the 2d preference category, the stepchild may be able to immigrate sooner than later even if petitioned by a legal permanent resident biological parent. If the biological parent is about to get married to the US citizen petitioner and the biological parent has a child who is already over 18 years of age, it might be wise to consider postponing the marriage to give the child an opportunity to enter the United States faster. Instead of marrying the biological parent, the US citizen petitioner can just file a fiancé petition for the biological parent. Once the fiancé petition is approved, both the biological parent and child can be issued the corresponding K visas for them to enter the United States. Upon marriage of the US citizen to the biological parent, both parent and child can file their respective applications for adjustment of status to have their status

changed from K to permanent resident status. The decision whether to file a fiancé petition or an immigrant petition is crucial especially if the child is aging out or turning 21 years of age. The decision to just get married instead of filing a fiancé petition could mean a long wait of at least eight years before the child can be able to immigrate to the United States and join the biological parent.

***

Atty. Dennis E. Chua is a partner in The Law Firm of Chua Tinsay and Vega (CTV), a full service law firm with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and Manila. 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 inperson or phone consultation to discuss your particular situation and/or how their services may be retained at (415) 495-8088; (619) 955-6277; Dchua@ctvattys.com. The CTV Attorneys will be at Max’s Restaurant in Vallejo on October 19, 2009 from 5pm to 7pm to hold a FREE legal clinic. (Advertising Supplement)

Digital Dentistry Dr. LoveLy teoDoro CEREC is the unique CAD/ CAM system for patient individual all-ceramic restorations in one single appointment. Using CAD/ CAM (computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing), this process allows dentists to construct, produce, and insert individual ceramic restorations directly at the point of treatment in a single appointment, rather than over multiple appointments with labside work in between. CAD/CAM dentistry involves a digital impression from one or more scans, designing the restoration on the computer (computer-aided design, leading to a 3D model), and manufacturing the restoration computer-aided manufacturing, by milling. Unlike other materials such as amalgam or gold, ceramic is more biocompatible and boasts tooth-like physical and aesthetic qualities. In addition, digital impressions are more comfortable for patients than traditional impressions. By further developing the pro-

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

CEREC benefits of CAD/CAM dentistry cess, it was possible to reduce the amount of follow-up work and time-intensive occlusion adjustment that was often necessary in the past. According to studies, the ten-year lifespan of CEREC inlays polished and milled with the aid of a computer is not only significantly longer than that of gold inlays, but also exceeds that of individually laboratory-manufactured ceramic inlays. Further clinical studies reveal that the success rate of CEREC restorations is 95.5 percent following a period of nine years and 84 percent after 18 years. The digital mapping technology of CEREC that charts the inside of the patient’s mouth completely accurately and down to the last detail ensures that there is no issue with inaccurate dental impressions that lead the patient to experience discomfort with bulky molds and unnecessary debris in their mouth. Combined with three-dimensional X-ray technology, it has also been possible to use CEREC for implants since 2009. The dentist can combine the CAD/CAM planning based on CEREC with 3D X-ray data in order to coor-

dinate the prosthetic and surgical implant planning and achieve the intended treatment results. Based on this so-called integrated implantology, the dentist is able to order the drilling templates from the drilling template manufacturer SiCat or – if they have their own milling machine – produce them on their own at the office using CEREC Guide. These latest digital dental technologies are being performed in our offices today. *** 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)

Whatever happened to ‘Happily Ever After’?

Immigrant Living: 101 and Beyond Monette AdevA MAglAyA

“Suicide, contrary to the lyrics of a popular song, is never painless.”

(Part 2 of 3)

THERE is an onslaught of overwhelming assaults that come in all forms from just everywhere, facilitated by the startling phenomenon of social media and soul is its habitat. pilot who planned and deliberthe ease of anything going viPope Francis, fully aware and ately slammed a planeload of ral through the internet. This deeply concerned about what is passengers against an Alpine warped, perverse world we live going on in the spiritual realm in mountain, causing the death of in today seems to delight in mis- today’s world, has ordained ex- 149 people. chief and mayhem. orcism official Catholic practice. Who can forget about that deAgainst this gloomy global The greatest lie perpetrated by spondent Malaysian Airlines pilot backdrop, what is good and true the devil during modern times is who may have caused the death appear to be defenseless against to make people believe that evil of others by murder-suicide? Afunseen forces that doom per- does not exist. It does. People ter 17 months of fruitless searchsonal struggles: relationship lulled by a false sense of secu- es, debris of the ill-fated MH 370 problems, self-esteem issues, rity in believing they are not in have been recovered on Reunion financial problems, addictions, the sights of that sinister, unseen Island in the Indian Ocean close physical and mental illnesses and force, have become like the dodo, to Mauritius and Madagascar, other ills too many to mention. fat sitting ducks for evil, unwary perhaps dragged by ocean curThe result — there seems to and often caught off guard when rents from where it crashed on be far too many lonely, alienated tested. March 08, 2014 killing 239 peopeople these days. The suicidal The dodo is gone because it ple onboard. stage is the most dreaded period did not recognize the predators And then there are the twisted of such a state of mind, when that wanted to kill it. In the spiri- beliefs of suicide bombers seekintense loneliness descends to tual realm, it has always been ing martyrdom. They think they a deep vortex of will go to paradise The greatest lie perpetrated by the hopelessness and and be rewarded darkness. Suicide devil during modern times is to make people with seventy-two signals the end virgins for their believe that evil does not exist. It does. of a futile human atrocity. There are People lulled by a false sense of security in religious leaders struggle. There is availbelieving they are not in the sights of that intolerant of other able help — a beliefs, who incite sliver of hope. sinister, unseen force, have become like the their followers to P s y c h o t h e r a p y dodo, fat sitting ducks for evil, unwary and eradicate Chrisand the safe and tians and Christian often caught off guard when tested. judicious use of nations. Who can antidepressants the battle for the human soul explain evil incarnate? can help keep deep depression at — good versus evil. The battle There is news of suicide that bay. But that is all it does — keep is raging. Sadly, many are none hits you harder because you perit at bay. One cannot help but the wiser. sonally know the person who took think that there has to be a better With beheadings, stonings and his own life. By all accounts, he way when an alarming percent- widespread Christian persecu- has led a good life but unknown age of those who take antide- tion in the Middle East and Af- to all, was going through overpressants still throw in the towel rica by radical elements of Islam, whelming personal struggles, and end it all. and in the home front of western quietly wallowing in darkness and In simpler times, if you can civilization, the pervasive liberal- despair never wanting to cause a call and label adversity by name, ism that mocks Christian moral- ripple and simply gave up. you can figure out simple ways of ity and values by touting political In many cases, those in their defeating it. Yet now because of correctness, the world is back to immediate family orbit say, they the complexity of the world we 1 AD all over again. This is histo- never saw it coming and will be live in, we don’t call people lone- ry repeating itself — a throwback left wondering WHY. Suicide, ly. We call them depressed. They to two thousand years ago when contrary to the lyrics of a popuare diagnosed with bipolar dis- the blood of martyrs flowed, lar song, is never painless. Those order, schizophrenia, paranoia, and Nero fiddled while Rome left behind who will have to pick obsessive-compulsive disorder, burned. up the pieces deal with the heavy and a whole dizzying lexicon of This is the present social and pall of gloom and guilt that demental diseases. cultural canvass that engenders scends on them for a long time. Two thousand years ago, our hopelessness and darkness in the (Conclusion in next week’s isancestors called the whole gam- souls of many individuals today. sue) ut of mental diseases and bizarre There are far too many news *** behavior, possession by the dev- of suicide these days and its hor- Nota Bene: Monette Adeva Maglaya is il. One is no longer in charge of rible spawn, murder-suicide. SVP of Asian Journal Publications, Inc. To one’s soul but has been overpowConsider the case of that de- send comments, e-mail monette.maglaya@ ered by a sinister, evil force. The ranged, suicidal Germanwings asianjournalinc.com

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It’s your life: Treat your diabetes…

PAGE CJ1 t

A—the A1C test, which measures average blood sugar over 2 to 3 months. B—blood pressure, the force of blood flow inside blood vessels. C—cholesterol, a group of blood fats that affect the risk of heart attack or stroke. s—stop smoking or don’t start. Prevent complications People with type 1 or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk for serious health complications, including: • Heart disease and stroke: People with diabetes are twice as likely to have heart disease or a stroke as people without diabetes, and at an earlier age. • Blindness and eye problems: Diabetic retinopathy (damage to blood vessels in the retina), cataract (clouding of the lens), and glaucoma (increase in fluid pressure in the eye) can all result in vision loss. • Kidney disease: High blood sugar levels can damage the kidneys over time, long before you start to feel bad.

• Amputations: This means you could lose a foot or leg. Diabetes causes damage to blood vessels and nerves, particularly in the feet, and can lead to serious, hard-to-treat infections. Amputation may be necessary to keep the infection from spreading. But good blood sugar control can help you avoid or delay these serious health complications, and treating complications as soon as possible can help prevent them from getting worse. Get on a wellness schedule • Every day: stay active, eat a healthy diet, and take medication; check feet for redness, swelling, pain, or sores. • Each health care visit (at least 4 times a year): blood pressure check; foot check. • Twice a year: A1C test; dental checkup. • Once a year: cholesterol test; kidney function test; podiatrist (foot doctor) and eye doctor visits; flu shot (and other vaccines as recommended by your doctor). Pay attention to pre-diabetes More than a third of American

adults—around 86 million—have pre-diabetes, and 9 out of 10 don’t know it. With pre-diabetes, blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough yet to be diagnosed as diabetes. Pre-diabetes can put people at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Without lifestyle changes, 15 percent-30 percent of people with pre-diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes within 5 years. Take action now—by eating healthier and getting more physical activity—to help prevent pre-diabetes from becoming type 2 diabetes and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. The CDCled National Diabetes Prevention Program can help people with pre-diabetes adopt the healthy lifestyle habits needed to prevent diabetes. Find a program in your community and get started today. Living with diabetes is challenging, but it’s important to remember that making healthy choices can have a big effect on the course of the disease—and your quality of life. (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)

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Immigration Corner

EACH month, the Visa Office of the State Department publishes, in the Visa Bulletin, the priority dates for that particular month, for the various family and employment based categories. A priority date is a person’s “place in line” for a visa, meaning immigrant visas (or green cards) would be available for persons whose priority date is earlier than the cut-off date listed below. If your priority date was “current,” but later retrogressed (or “moved backwards” and became unavailable) before your immigrant visa was issued (or before you adjusted status in the U.S.), you would have to wait until it becomes current again. Beginning in October 2015, the format of the Visa Bulletin changed, in that a new column was added, called the “Application Filing Date.” If a person’s priority date is earlier than the Application Filing Date, they can already file for adjustment of status and work authorization (provided they are otherwise eligible and USCIS indicates on its website it will use the Application Filing Date for that month). This could allow people to obtain work authorization much sooner than before, where they had to wait for the priority date to be current (in the Visa Issuance Date column) in order to both file for adjustment and be eligible for

The Priority dates for the Philippines are as follows: Application Filing Date

Visa Issuance Date

September 1, 2005

June 1, 2003

First Preference

Unmarried sons and daughters of US citizens (over 21 years of age)

Second Preference

(2A) Spouse and minor children (below March 1, 2015 21 years old) of green card holder

June 15, 2014

(2B) Unmarried sons and daughters (21 years old or older) of green card holder

May 1, 2005

December 1, 2004

Third Preference

Married sons and daughters of US Citizens.

August 1, 1995

October 22, 1993

Fourth Preference

Brothers and sisters of US Citizens.

January 1, 1993

July 1, 1992

Visa Issuance Date

LABOR CERTIFICATION: Third Preference

Professional/ Skilled Workers

Other Workers

Non-Skilled Workers

a green card.

***

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

January 1, 2010

August 1, 2007

January 1, 2010

August 1, 2007

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 (Advertising Supplement)

Nielsen convenes with industry thought leaders to discuss the of the Asian American community

NEW YORK – Nielsen, in partnership with the Asia Society, Asian American Advertising Federation, Asian Americans Advancing Justice and the Asian American Federation, convened more than 50 industry leaders to collectively identify challenges and discuss opportunities to increase investment in the AsianAmerican community. The summit, which was held in New York City, focused on the areas of philanthropy, marketing and advertising investment and senior leadership advancement. “The Asian-American community is incredibly diverse, encompassing dozens of languages and representing more than 40 different countries of origin. Nielsen understands the complexity and nuances of working with, marketing to, and serving this particular segment,” said Betty Lo, vice president, Community Alliances & Consumer Engagement, Nielsen. “Through our Asian-American Consumer Reports and our work with Nielsen’s Asian Pacific American Executive Advisory Council, it became clear that a conversation about investment in this community was necessary.” Attendees of the event engaged in high-level discussions with the goal of developing actionable initiatives and commitments to address the need for increased investment in the Asian-American community. Key topics impacting AsianAmericans, such as barriers to advancement in corporate management, the “model minority” myth, civic engagement and

political representation, as well as industry learnings about the segment as consumers, were deliberated and dissected. “We commend Nielsen for the foresight to bring together industry, community, and political stakeholders for this critical dialogue,” said Nita Song, Co-Chair of the Nielsen Asian Pacific American External Advisory Council, and President and CEO, IW Group. “Nielsen’s expertise in providing data-driven consumer insights makes them an ideal partner to provide a platform to elevate the importance of the fastest-growing and most culturally diverse ethnic segment in the United States.” Nielsen’s Asian Pacific American External Advisory Council is comprised of industry, community, academic and business leaders. The organizations work closely to shape and establish best practices for panel recruitment and procedures to best reflect the consumer habits of the Asian-American community. The Council regularly consults on process and procedural updates to ensure that Nielsen’s diversity and inclusion practices position the company to authentically understand this segment across all levels of operations. Nielsen also partners with numerous AsianAmerican and Pacific Islanderserving organizations to consistently engage this diverse and growing segment. “The Diverse Intelligence Series of reports speaks to the strength of the changing demographics of this country,” said Saul Rosenberg, Chief Content

Officer, Nielsen. “In order for Asian-American and other multicultural consumers to be best served, it is imperative that the industry examine watch and buy behaviors within a cultural context. Nielsen is committed to amplifying the unique voices of Asian-American consumers by highlighting research and data that is reflective of the cultural values and preferences of this diverse segment.” To learn more about Nielsen and its commitment to serving diverse communities, visit Nielsen.com. About Nielsen Nielsen Holdings plc (NYSE: NLSN) is a global performance management company that provides a comprehensive understanding of what consumers Watch and Buy. Nielsen’s Watch segment provides media and advertising clients with Total Audience measurement services across all devices where content — video, audio and text — is consumed. The Buy segment offers consumer packaged goods manufacturers and retailers the industry’s only global view of retail performance measurement. By integrating information from its Watch and Buy segments and other data sources, Nielsen provides its clients with both world-class measurement as well as analytics that help improve performance. Nielsen, an S&P 500 company, has operations in over 100 countries that cover more than 90 percent of the world’s population. For more information, visit www.nielsen. com. (Advertising Supplement)

Join AARP’s Virtual Family Caregiving Fair Chef Martin Yan cooks with caregivers

WASHINGTON, DC – To help caregivers, AARP is hosting a Virtual Family Caregiving Fair that will take place on Thursday, November 19, 2015 from 12pm – 4pm EST. From the comfort of a home or office, a caregiver can register and join the free fair online at aarp.org/familycarefair. During the virtual fair, a caregiver can tour the exhibit hall with more than 15 booths showcasing various caregiving resources and programs, enter a “mix and mingle” lounge to connect with experts and other caregivers through online chats, visit a virtual auditorium to view scheduled and on-demand presentations and videos, and explore a library with additional resources for caregivers. Master Chef Martin of Yan of Yan Can Cook will also be on

hand to walk through a few quick and easy recipes for busy caregivers and their families. Learn more at aarp.org/familycarefair. 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 fo 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 Magazine, the world’s largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Español, a Spanishlanguage 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. (Advertising Supplement)

Corporate farming: Who owns the world’s seeds? THIS summer, agrochemical, biotechnology, and seed giant Monsanto dropped their bid to acquire their Switzerland-based competitor Syngenta. Initial merger serenades were sternly rebuffed by Syngenta, and Monsanto’s interest turned into a $46.5 billion hostile takeover. Monsanto had no fear of backlash from U.S. antitrust officials. And there’s the rub, the reason a failed merger is still worthy of note and cause for concern. What level of seed industry consolidation would have to be achieved to

The December 2015 priority dates FAMILY CATEGORY:

Atty. MichAel Gurfinkel, eSQ

NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL • NOVEMBER 13-19, 2015

trigger interest, let alone action, at the Department of Justice’s Antitrust Division? According to Dr. Philip Howard of Michigan State University, there have been more than 70 seed company acquisitions by the top eight firms since 2008. Monsanto, DuPont, and Syngenta maintained their dominant position, collectively controlling over 50 percent of the market, up from 22 percent in 1996. Monsanto acquiring Syngenta would have put over half the American seed market in the

hands of just two transnational corporations. It’s difficult to imagine a more crucial concern for farmers than who owns and controls the world’s seeds. Farmers have lost access to varieties while seeing the prices they pay for biotechnology traits through technology agreements skyrocket. Further consolidation in the seed sector will make matters worse. The failed Monsanto-Syngenta merger should be a clarion call for the Department of Justice

u PAGE CJ4

A HUSBAND’S 30-YEAR-OLD “SECRET” ALMOST DERAILED THE FAMILY’S GREEN CARDS — ON A BRAND NEW EPISODE OF “CITIZEN PINOY!” Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (right) was able to revive Alice’s (center) petition by her US citizen father, after it was terminated due to the petitioner’s death. The family was then eligible to get their visas years ahead of schedule by using the priority date of Alice’s Lebanese husband, Andre (left). But Andre refused to come to the US because of a “secret” he had kept for 30 years, preventing him from going back to the US. Atty. Gurfinkel worked “miracles” to resolve the mystery behind this fascinating success story, on a brand-new episode of “Citizen Pinoy” – on Sunday, November 15 at 6:15pm (PST) on TFC.

A petitioner who died and a husband’s 30-year-old secret make for a ‘teleserye’ immigration story – on a brand new episode of Citizen Pinoy! ALICE, a Filipina, married Andre, a Lebanese citizen. When Alice’s US citizen father petitioned her as a married child in 1994, she was eligible for an immigrant visa years ahead of time, due to the “Cross Chargeability” provision in the law that enabled her to use Lebanon’s priority dates. However, Alice never received notice from the US Embassy that her visa was available and so, the US Embassy terminated her petition. Leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel succeeded in reviving the “dead” petition. However, Alice’s father was stricken with Stage 4 cancer and died, resulting in the petition

again being cancelled. The only solution was, to again revive the petition, and use Andre’s cross-chargeability priority date. But Andre was hesitant, and refused to immigrate with his family despite Alice’s urgings. He finally confessed to a secret he kept from the family for over 30 years, preventing him from going back to the US. Watch the mystery unfold, along with the twists and turns of this interesting story on a brand-new episode of Citizen Pinoy – on Sunday, November 15 at 6:15 pm PST/EST (9:15 pm EST thru select Cable/Satellite providers). (Advertising Supplement)

Calendar of Events across

America

ADVERTISE YOUR EVENTS! PRE-EVENT AND POST-EVENT GO DEEPER. GO WIDER. LET THE WORLD KNOW. CALL ASIAN JOURNAL: (818) 502-0651 DISPLAY AD SIZES AT SPECIAL RATES FOR NON-PROFIT GROUPS N OV E M B E R 5 -1 4

16th San Diego Asian Film Festival To celebrate its sweet 16th, the San Diego Asian Film Festival (SDAFF) is proud to welcome and pay tribute to entertainment and film legends and pioneers during its 10-day film festival, from November 5 - 14, 2015. Presented by Pacific Arts Movement, the SDAFF is the largest showcase of Asian cinema on the West Coast, with more than 130 films and programs from 20 countries. This year, the SDAFF presents the West Coast premiere of documentary TYRUS, paying tribute and welcoming entertainment legend Tyrus Wong, a 105-year-old Chinese American artist who is best known for inspiring the artwork in Disney’s original classic Bambi. Other contemporary pioneers in entertainment such as Ken Jeong and Eugene Lee Yang will be present. The film festival will take place at the Ultrastar Mission Valley at Hazard Center (Main Theater & Box Office), 7510 Hazard Center Drive, San Diego, CA 92108. For all screenings at Ultrastar, tickets can be purchased at the Ultrastar Mission Valley box office (Member $9, General $12) starting October 30. Student/Military/Senior and Group discounts are available at the door. Opening, Centerpiece, and Closing Night tickets are $15 for General, $12 for Members. Limited All-Fest Passes are available for $250. For ticketing info, film program/gala awards night details, and a full schedule, please visit festival.sdaff.org or contact 619.400.5911 | info@pacarts.org.

N OV E M B E R 1 4

Saint Martin of Tours Fiesta Invitation to Taaleños to host the celebration of the Feast of Saint Martin of Tours, the Patron Saint of Taal, Batangas, on Nov. 14. Holy Mass will be offered at 10 am at 401 Spur Trail, Walnut, CA 91789, followed by a potluck luncheon to be hosted by expats from Taal. A ‘Silent Auction’ is planned to raise funds for the repair and beautification of the Old Catholic Cemetery. Musical entertainment will be provided by Tony Mijares of San Jose, Calif. Please contact potluck coordinators Lorna and Eddie B. de Sagun (626) 780-8272, and the following to confirm your attendance: Baby Patolot (626) 202-3172, Jeannette C. Ilagan (626) 922-4330 or Lydia V. Solis lvsolis@aol.com.

N OV E M B E R 2 0 -2 1

Free AARP TEK Mobile Technology Workshop What: A free technology workshop from AARP TEK Program AARP TEK and presented with AT&T’s generous support comes to Cerritos on Friday, November 20th and Saturday, November 21st. Featuring 50-plus technology learners from the Cerritos area, AARP TEK representatives, and local elected officials, the “hands on” AARP TEK workshop is designed to enable people to leverage personal technology to enrich their lives and to educate the community on how they can maximize their use of their tablets and smartphones. When: November 20th: 11 am - 1 pm: Intro to Smart Phones – Beginner Workshop 3 pm – 5 pm: Beyond the Basics: Smart Phones – Intermediate Workshop November 21st: 10 am - 12 noon: Intro to Smart Phones – Beginner Workshop 2 pm – 4 pm: Beyond the Basics: Smart Phones – Intermediate Workshop Where: Sheraton Cerritos Hotel, Garden Terrace Ballroom. 12725 Center Court Drive, Cerritos, CA 90703 For more information on AARP TEK or for more details on scheduled workshops, visit the Events tab on aarptek.org.

N OV E M B E R 28

Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award for Excellence Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award For Excellence In Medicine, Education, Arts & Literature and The Youth When: Saturday, November 28, 2015, 1-6 pm Where: Astoria World Manor in Astoria, Queens, NY Hosted by: Knights of Rizal - New York For More Information, please contact: Atty. Ferdinand G. Suba, Esq., KCR Commander, Knights of Rizal - NY E-mail: SUBALAW@aol.com

D EC E M B E R 3

AAPA Awards Gala Asian American Professional Association (AAPA) will host The Achievement Awards & Graduation Gala, honoring prominent leaders who trailblaze and inspire others to become leaders, and celebrating the 2015 graduating class of AAPA Mentees. The theme is “Waves of Change, Oceans of Opportunity.” The gala will take place on Thursday, Dec 3 from 5:30pm - 9:30pm, at the Hilton San Gabriel (225 West Valley Blvd. San Gabriel, CA 91776). Expose your brand to the professional community who are your customers, clients, potential employees, entrepreneurs, corporate and community leaders. Your support will directly benefit the AAPA mentees in the program. To purchase a ticket or ad, the cost is $50 each (limited time only); full/half/quarter page ad sizes are available in full color. Please visit http://aapaawards.eventbrite.com/ for more details and to RSVP by Nov. 13. Please get involved by emailing lia.andika@aapamentoring.com.

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NOVEMBER 13-19, 2015 • NORCAL ASIAN JOURNAL

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Gov. Brown takes action to protect communities against unprecedented tree die-off

CARL BUFFA’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION. Carl Buffa, president of Care Plus Home Care, Home Health and Hospice, celebrated his birthday party with his family and close friends. He was surprised by well-wishers and was elated to be with his loved ones. His wife Cora arranged the sumptuous meal featuring Middle Eastern food and a surprise performance by a belly dancer. Cora and Carl recently traveled to Europe and enjoyed their “honeymoon vacation.” We wish you many more of fruitful years to come, Carl!

Daly City receives Silver Spotlight Award for efforts to address climate change THE Institute for Local Government and the Statewide Energy Efficiency Collaborative honored the City of Daly City with two Spotlight Awards for the City’s efforts to save energy, reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) and adopt policies and program that promote sustainability. The City’s achievements were recognized as part of our participation in the sustainability recognition program, the Beacon Program.

EMPLOYMENT

Daly city received the following awards: • Silver Spotlight Award for 9% community GHG reductions • Silver Spotlight Award for sustainability best practices To achieve these awards the City has implemented a number of sustainability programs and initiatives. Activities include: - Hosting tours demonstrating the beauty of drought tolerant plants along the turf plots demonstrating the use of recycled

water; - Promoting business energy audits and energy efficiency retrofits; and - Completing a pedestrian and bicycle master plan. The Beacon Award program honors local agencies for innovative solutions that address climate change. For more information about the City’s Beacon Spotlight Award activities visit www.ca-ilg.org/beacon-participation-profile/city-daly-city. n

EMPLOYMENT

SACRAMENTO – As record drought conditions exacerbate bark beetle infestation that is killing tens of millions of trees across California, Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. recently declared a state of emergency and sought federal action to help mobilize additional resources for the safe removal of dead and dying trees. “California is facing the worst epidemic of tree mortality in its modern history,” said Governor Brown in a letter to US Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. “A crisis of this magnitude demands action on all fronts.” Four years of drought have made trees in many regions of California susceptible to infestation by native bark beetles, which are normally constrained by the defense mechanisms of healthy trees. The United States Forest Service recently estimated that more than 22 million trees have already died in California due to current conditions. The tree die-off is of such a scale that it significantly worsens wildfire risk in many areas of the state and presents life

safety risks from falling trees to Californians living in rural, forested communities. Several counties have declared local state of emergencies due to this epidemic tree mortality. The Governor’s state of emergency proclamation on the tree mortality epidemic builds on the April 2014 executive order to redouble the state’s drought response, which included provisions to expedite the removal of dead and dying hazardous trees. Today’s proclamation helps identify high hazard zones for wildfire and falling trees that have resulted from the unprecedented dieoff and prioritizes tree removal in these areas. It also calls for

state agencies to take several actions to enable removal of hazard trees. Governor Brown’s letter to Secretary Vilsack requests urgent federal action, including additional technical assistance for private land owners, matching federal funding and expedited approval for emergency actions on federal lands. In addition, the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services and CAL FIRE are convening a Task Force on Tree Mortality comprised of state and federal agencies, local governments and utilities that will coordinate emergency protective actions and monitor ongoing conditions. n

Corporate farming: Who owns… PAGE CJ3 t

Antitrust division to breathe life into the 2009 announcement of their intention to investigate anticompetitive behavior in the seed industry. We are well past the time for action over empty promises. Established in 1973, the Cen-

ter for Rural Affairs is a private, non-profit organization working to strengthen small businesses, family farms and ranches, and rural communities through action oriented programs addressing social, economic, and environmental issues. (By John Crabtree / Center for Rural Affairs)

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cover story

SF2

The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - November 13, 2015

Author, poet and educator Jason Bayani and his commitment to have the Fil-Am community and his stories be heard by Malou liwanag-Bledsoe/AJPress

BEING Asian in America has its drawbacks. We’ve heard it from Asian actors and artists -- while we are in demand for ethnic-looking characters in a stage play, film or TV show, the chances are, these roles are far and few in between. As a writer, it treads the same road. Author, poet and educator Jason Bayani knows this for a fact. Although he was born in San Francisco in 1976, his father grew up in Bulacan (home of Francisco Balagtas, one of the greatest Filipino poets), while his mother was from Butuan. Growing up Filipino-American, he was not used to seeing himself represented, or having his stories told. “There was nothing growing up that I could relate to, so I never though being an artist was any kind of option,” he said in an e-mail interview. “But that gradual commitment that was made over time was enforced by being able to have artistic spaces that were outside of the mainstream and geared towards people with similar histories to my own. It’s constantly frustrat-

ing to deal with the mainstream, white-centered, literary world.” Jason shared that his journey as a writer is different from what people may perceive it to be. “I think there’s an impulse for a lot of people to want to romanticize your writer’s story. But it’s like any relationship you’re invested in. It’s a gradual commitment and one that gets tested constantly. It’s not one moment -- it’s many moments.” Adding that there are times he doesn’t want to be a writer, it’s a love-hate-relationship. “It’s boring and mundane and exciting and thrilling and frustrating and angering in equal measures.” His first book, Amulet, started as his MFA (in Creative Writing) manuscript at Saint Mary’s College in Moraga, CA and most of the work in it was written between 2008-2012 and was published in 2013 through Write Bloody Press. Amulet is a collection of poems that examines the life of Filipinos and people of Asian descent in America. The well crafted verses in his work shines a light

Photo by Jonathan Fong

on what it means to an American, an artist, and most importantly—a Filipino. Jason said that Amulet came at the right time during his growth as a writer. “I didn’t publish my first book until I was 37, but I think it came at the right time because as far as my growth as a writer, it is probably more preferable that it happened this way because I look at my body of work and I don’t hate the poems from my 20s, but I also don’t think they are very book worthy.” He also added that Amulet is

Photo by Katelyn Lucas

Photo by Bao Phi

Photo by Guangpo Hyong

mostly about himself and interrogating his relationship to loss and violence and masculinity over the years. “(And) it’s a start of things. It feels like a beginning for me. I’m very proud of the book.” As for influences, he credits Filipino poets like Jaime Jacinto and Jeff Tagami. “Jaime especially, who told a story that mirrored my own experience more closely than Jeff’s narrative of Filipino farmworkers in Central California,” he said. Adding to that list also is Robert Haas, and comedian Mitch Hedberg, who he believed completely changed how he look at poems. “He worked in these short forms that completely simplified my approach around how to be more economic and impactful in my writing.” Jason is also a Curator at the Berkeley Poetry Slam and a fellow of the Kundiman Poetry Fellowship in New York. He is a veteran of the National Poetry Slam scene and is one of the founding members of the Filipino American Spoken Word troupe, Proletariat Bronze. Apart from poetry, he is currently the Program Manager for Kearny Street Workshop (KSW), the oldest Asian Pacific American multidisciplinary arts organization in the country. KSW organizes events, offer workshops and have supported artists throughout different Photo by Mido Lee stages of their practice.

“(And) we really try to focus on arts as a community space. Our history ties back to the IHotel so here is where my value for art as a means to provided visibility and representation comes into play,” he said and added, “Because a lot of who we are has been maintaining and fighting for a voice in this city.” With this in mind, he would like to impress on the FilipinoAmerican community how their—our—stories matter. “We have a long rich history of literature in this country and we have so many talented people out here publishing and making noise right now and we’d love your support -- because you’re the most important audience,” he said. One of the books he highly recommends is Jeff Tagami’s October Light, that gives a richer picture of Filipino life in the Central Valley, and “helps

us preserve not only our history, but our voice.” “There’s enough of us out there right now I’m absolutely positive that if you aren’t feeling one of us, you’ll find the right one for you,” he said. He also encourages people in the community to buy books, look for their poems that they have published online. You want a starter? Barbara Jane Reyes has compiled a comprehensive list of published books by Fil-Am writers (www.barbarajanereyes. com). Now there’s no excuses. Give it a shot.” Jason Bayani’s book, Amulet, is available on Amazon, Write Bloody Publishing (www. writebloody.com), Barnes and Noble (www.barnesandnoble. com), and all other major online retail sites. You can also log on to www.jasonbayani. com. *Photo on cover by Margarita Corporan.

features SF3 The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE – November 13, 2015

Federated Indians of Graton rancheria celebrates 2nd anniversary of Graton resort and Casino GraTON resort & Casino, owned by the Federated Indians of Graton rancheria, opened two years ago in November 2013 as an $800 million casino and entertainment facility. Graton resort & Casino is located just off US highway 101 in rohnert Park, Calif and is the Bay area’s largest gaming and entertainment destination. The tribe now has plans to expand the gaming facility with the addition of a 200-room hotel, spa, pool area and banquet space with a $175 million price tag. The goal of the hotel is to open before the end of next year. Since the opening on Nov. 5, 2013, Graton resort &

Casino has entertained guests with great gaming, dining and entertainment experiences. To celebrate the two year anniversary, Graton has promotions through dec. 6, every Saturday (14, 21, 28) with drawings at 6pm for 25 winners of $250 cash; drawings at 8pm for a Jeep and 25 winners of $250 Cash! Grand Finale on dec. 6, all prizes guaranteed! For more details, please check with Graton rewards Center. Graton Casino & resorts provides more than 130 popular table games; 3,000 slot and video poker games; live poker; an 8,700-square-foot events center for concerts and special

events; and a dozen restaurants and bars including Tony’s of North Beach operated by 11-time World Pizza Champion Tony Gemignani, M.Y. Noodles by renowned Chef Martin Yan, 630 Park Steakhouse and daily Grill as well as a variety of casual dining choices inside the 500-seat Marketplace. Learn more at: www.GratonresortCasino.com, www.facebook. com/GratonCasino or www. twitter.com/PlayGraton. Graton also provides daily shuttle buses with convenient stops in the Bay area. Please go to www.GratonCasinoexpress. com for more details. *Advertising Supplement

Brad Pitt through the years San FranciSco By Monet

I heard it said in a-matterof-factly way. and it left me with a mantra that shadowed every choice I made over the years. everything that I do whether in business or pleasure, I remind myself: “ I am only as good as my last performance.” You may be wondering what does that have to do with Brad Pitt. Patience, my dear readers, as I am threading closer to my point. I do not know Brad Pitt personally (I wish I do) but I can identify with people like him: those who have made a difference in their respective fields and those who are artists in their own special ways. People like Brad Pitt, who are critiqued by their last “performance,” are loved through the years, nonetheless. Let’s go through the reasons why this fine actor deserves all the love he is getting. Brad Pitt was two weeks away from earning his degree from the University of Missouri when he left and moved to Los angeles to pursue his dream of acting. he began his career with television guest appearances, including a role on dallas in 1987. I want to say that after that, “the rest is history,” but like any other struggling artist, Pitt had his share of ups and downs. as one article puts it, “Brad Pitt’s been working in showbiz for more than 20 years, and he’s gone from token eye candy to the world’s biggest star during those two decades.” True enough, Pitt started with roles that—for a lack of a better term—capitalized on his good looks. But it didn’t take long for people to realize that he is more than “just a lovely face.” Born on december 18, 1963, William Bradley “Brad” Pitt has received a Golden Globe award, a Screen actors Guild award, and three academy award nominations in acting categories, and received two further academy award nominations, winning one, as producer under his own company Plan B entertainment. Pitt was first recognized in the road movie, Thelma & Louise as a cowboy hitchhiker in 1991. This was then followed by a string of leading roles in big-budget productions; among

Brad Pitt

these where A River Runs Through It, Legends of the Fall, and Interview with the Vampire in 1994. he was critically acclaimed in his performances in the crime thriller, Seven and the science fiction film, 12 Monkeys The latter earned him a Golden Globe award for Best Supporting actor and an academy award nomination. Pitt also starred in the Fight Club, Ocean’s Eleven, and its sequels, Ocean’s Twelve and Ocean’s Thirteen. his greatest commercial successes have been Troy in 2004, Mr. & Mrs. Smith in 2005 and World War Z in 2013. he received his second and third academy award nominations for his leading performances in The Curious Case of Benjamin Button in 2008 and Moneyball in 2011. as a producer, Pitt won the academy award for Best Picture for the movie The Departed in 2006 and 12 Years a Slave in 2013. Pitt also founded the Make It right Foundation in 2006, organizing housing professionals in New Orleans to finance and construct 150 sustainable, affordable new houses in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward following the devastation caused by hurricane Katrina in 2005. In an esquire article published two years ago, the writer described Pitt as someone who does not let stardom infiltrate his whole system. he wrote, “In fact, he [Pitt] hesitates to identify himself as an actor not for reasons of humility. he hesitates to identify

himself as an actor because he considers himself primarily an artist, a doer, a maker, a craftsman, a man who felt the first thrill of artifice not onstage but in high school shop class, drawing up plans. he hesitates to identify himself as an actor because he is forthrightly interested in leaving a legacy much larger than the legacy of his performances, which, however meaningful, are simply not as concrete as houses and chairs and wine or as endlessly real as children. he likes the idea of being something more than an actor and he likes the idea of being something less than an actor...” Writing about Brad Pitt had me thinking about his last “performance” as an artist, an advocate, a husband to angelina Jolie-Pitt and a father to his 6 multi-cultural kids. and though I may not even come close to his stature, I can say this to myself and to my readers: Our last performance in life is a good validation. But it is up to us to make a “lasting impression” through the years. *** Monet Lu is a Marikina-born, award-winning 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

Honor his art: John Lloyd Cruz gets a fresh, daring turn by arvin

Gaye Mendoza Inquirer.net

aCTOr John Lloyd Cruz is unfazed that his latest crimedrama movie Honor Thy Father (Conman) may not appeal to the taste of his fans. “Whether they like it or not, for me that’s not the point at all. We just wanted to tell a story,” said John Lloyd. Patronized by his supporters for his memorable romantic comedy and drama projects, John Lloyd is excited to know if his fans are ready to see him in a different genre. “I want to know if they are ready. at the end of the day, it’s just cinema. and I happen to be an actor. Where else would I appear but on films?” he said. “We have been hearing from people that they want something

John Lloyd Cruz

new, something fresh. This is the good answer. If that’s what you want, then you might want to consider watching this film,” he said. Honor Thy Father, which will adopt the new title Conman for this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival, tells the story of a mar-

ried couple edgar (John Lloyd) and Kaye (Meryll Soriano) who find themselves in a miserable situation after getting embroiled in a Ponzi scheme, a deceitful investment operation. John Lloyd, who is more identified to his blockbuster mainstream projects, downplayed the idea that his appearance on an independent film signals a career move. It was the first time John Lloyd starred in an independent film. he admitted that he found it challenging to adjust during the filming process. In the film, John Lloyd did several emotional heavy scenes and even shaved his head in just one take. he was also seen digging through a tunnel in his robbery attempt as an acetylene gang member.

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The Asian Jour nal SF MAGAZINE - November 13, 2015

celebrity world By Ferdie Villar IT was indeed a memorable night when beauty queen Joy Conde (now Cruz) finally passed her crown and title to the new Miss Republic of the Philippines, Fermira Dianne Tumangan Ramos of Zambales last November 4 at The Theatre of Solaire Resort & Casino. Joy also stole the night as she went onstage to do the traditional farewell walk after almost forty years. Josephine “Joy” Conde was a bank teller from Alabang, Rizal when she won the title of Miss RP 1977. She also became the first Filipina to withdraw from an international beauty pageant when she was at the Miss World 1976. Joy, along with eight other delegates (from India, Mauritius, Liberia, Malaysia, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, Swaziland and Yugoslavia) withdrew in protest to the apartheid policy in South Africa. On the day of the finals, a consul of the Philippine Embassy in London came to bring a letter from then Secretary Jose D. Ingles of the Department of Foreign Affairs. In the letter was instruction for Joy to withdraw from the pageant because of the presence of “white Miss South Africa.” The following day, Joy made it to the front page of various UK newspapers, getting more attention than the Miss World winner herself. (The following year, Philippine representative Ana Melissa “Peachy” Ofilada Veneracion was also forced to withdraw from the pageant for the same reason). Joy was also the last to be crowned as Miss RP (for Miss World) under my organization,

Spotlight Promotions, as the franchise was handed over to the Mutya ng Pilipinas organizers run by Leandro “Biboy” Emriquez. The Miss Republic of the Philippines pageant is now under businesswoman Lynette Padolina. The 25-year-old Ramos also won Best in Philippine Terno, Miss Megadata Corp. USA and Miss Via Mare. She took home with her a prize package including P 100,000 cash, a four-year scholarship grant, one-year management contract and other gifts from sponsors. Other winners include Sheila Marie Reyes of Valenzuela City - Miss Visayas, Beatrice Valente of Milan, Italy - Miss RP International, Joselle Mariano of Cavite - Miss Luzon, and Kristie Rose Cequena of Sta. Rosa, Laguna - Miss Mindanao. *** We are storming the heavens with prayers for the speedy recovery of our dear friend, veteran actress Amalia Fuentes. Her grandchildren recently confirmed that the actress suffered an ischemic stroke while vacationing in South Korea last October 9. In an official statement released to the media, Amalia’s grandkids Alyanna, Alfonso and Alissa Martinez said that their grandmother was found unconscious by a friend in her hotel room in South Korea. She was then immediately rushed to a hospital in Seoul and is now confined in intensive care unit. “After a few weeks, when she was finally stabilized, her Korean doctors allowed her to travel back to the Philippines,” her grandchildren said.

Former beauty queen and fashion model Marilen Bernardo recently visited her family and friends in Calgary, Alberta. Shown in photo are (L-R) Senior NBI Inspector Tony Tolentino, Marilen, Calgary socialite Trish Lottie-Brar, ABS-CBN executive Evelyn Lopez, newlyweds Leni and Blaise Wood.

Miss Republic of the Philippines 2015 crowned by former titleholder Joy Conde

Joy Conde (Cruz) Miss Republic of the Philippines 1977, is shown taking her farewell walk during the 2015 Miss RP coronation night last November 4 at Solaire Resort & Casino. Joy became the last Miss RP under the tutelage of Ferdie Villar’s Spotlight Productions and held the title for almost four decades. Photo courtesy of Philstar

After arriving in Manila last October 27, the actress was immediately brought to the hospital. “We were informed by her doctors that she hopefully can be discharged within two weeks,” the Martinez siblings added. “She will continue her recuperation at home and will be undergoing extensive therapy soon after.” They are also asking for prayers for their grandmother’s recovery. Alyanna, Alfonso and Alissa are Amalia’s grandchildren from her late daughter Liezl (who recently passed away due to cancer) with actor Albert Martinez. Here is the full statement from the Martinez siblings: “It is with deep sadness that we, the grandchildren of Amalia Fuentes, are confirming that she had suffered an ischemic stroke on October 9, while on vacation in South Korea. “She was discovered by her friend in her hotel room and

Rev. Father Ngoan Phan and Dina Reyes, parochial and musical director at Saint Andrews Catholic Church in Daly City are shown with the members of their children chorale.

GACCE’s Project ‘Face the Race’ to bring cultural integration THE Global Artists’ Creative Collaboration for Empowerment (GACCE) believes in multicultural interaction as a significant formula to the success of cultural integration and community capacity building. Nowadays, society is consistently showing continued growth and culture change such that it has become mandatory to embrace each culture’s ideas in order to have same value as something else and vie on an equal field. Consequently, cultural integration has become a must. The intention of cultural integration is, of course, to promote cultural learning and understanding that culture is a multi-layered experience and reinforcing that knowledge can sustain each one’s acumen and GACCE’s vision of “no one should be left behind.” As an experience, cultural integration has become a need that will foster an all-inclusive aspect of the individual’s personal, emotional and cognitive spheres. In response to this apparent need, GACCE has initiated a

proprietary project called “Face the Race” with objectives of exploring connections between cultures and societies; demonstrating personal expression and original concepts of varied cultures and recognizing the existence of similarities and differences that ultimately can lead to cultural integration. As its central activity, project “Face the Race” will utilize mask making as an avenue that will challenge the participants to create a mask that will represent their own stories, sentiments, fears, thematic connections, self and cultural expressions. The outcome of this project will convey a message that is expected to show and tell its meanings in an art exhibition as the participants become aware of the social purpose and significance of each culture in cultural integration. As an assessment, the finished products, its stories and its creators will be documented and will be shared to the community as a living legacy of multicultural experience.

This project is a community capacity building on a continuing basis and will involve different communities and participants in multiple venues: community and senior centers, schools, re-entry centers, family centers, among others. On November 1, 2015, a snapshot of project “Face the Race” has commenced its initial activity with its core-focus group composed of participants from different cultural backgrounds. The venue was at Studio 4 of The Alameda Artwork Studios in San Jose, California. The positive discussion from its participants was a condescending affirmation that “Face the Race” is a relevant undertaking that will convene people from varied backgrounds and share their own cultural ideas as they show and tell the product of their activities. We encourage more participants in this endeavor as GACCE explores the different venue of multicultural experience. Similarly, we will post invitations on Eventbrite.

The photo above shows Joy Conde when she was crowned as Miss Republic of the Philippines 1977 (to represent the country in the Miss World pageant in 1976). Unfortunately, Joy had to withdraw from the pageant to protest against the apartheid in South Africa. Photo courtesy of Tony Paat / Veestarz

was immediately rushed to a hospital in Seoul where she was placed in an intensive care unit. “After a few weeks when she was finally stabilized, her Korean doctors allowed her to travel back to the Philippines. “Upon her return on October 27, from the tarmac she was brought straight to the hospital. “We were informed by her doctors that she hopefully can be discharged within two weeks. “She will continue her recuperation at home and will be

Fermira Dianne Tumangan Ramos of Zambales (center) was crowned as Miss Republic of the Philippines 2015 last November 4 at The Theatre of Solaire Resort & Casino. Other winners include Sheila Marie Reyes of Valenzuela City - Miss Visayas, Beatrice Valente of Milan, Italy - Miss RP International, Joselle Mariano of Cavite - Miss Luzon, and Kristie Rose Cequena of Sta. Rosa, Laguna - Miss Mindanao. Official Miss RP photo / Collin Yap Photography

Veteran actress Amalia Fuentes suffered an ischemic stroke while on vacation in South Korea, as confirmed by her grandchildren. She is now recuperating in a hospital in Manila.

undergoing extensive therapy soon after. “We, her grandchildren, and the rest of the Muhlach

family, appeal to her friends, fans and the general public for prayers for her immediate and full recovery.”

Marian Rivera takes a leave from ‘Sunday PinaSaya’ MANILA—Marian Rivera was emotional as she temporarily leaves the GMA noontime show Sunday PinaSaya. The Kapuso “Primetime Queen,” who is now 37 weeks pregnant, may give birth to her first child with Dingdong Dantes anytime soon. They’ll name the baby girl Maria Letizia. The show prepared a simple baby shower for Marian which was aired on November 8. Marian’s co-hosts wished her a safe delivery of baby and said that they’ll wait for her come-

back. This made the Kapuso actress emotional. “Sobrang mami-miss ko ‘tong Sunday PinaSaya kasi sobrang nag-e-enjoy ako,” she said. “Sobrang mami-miss ko kayo. Thank you sa Sunday PinaSaya family ko and syempre sa fans na nadiyan, thank you.” “Babalik ulit si Judge MD,” she promised, referring to her segment in the show. While she’s away, Marian said someone will replace her but didn’t reveal who it’ll be. (Philstar.com)

Marian Rivera takes a leave from “Sunday PinaSaya” as she prepares to give birth to her firstborn with Dingdong Dantes.

Pokwang says no to ‘Comedy Queen’ title by Joyce Jimenez Philstar.com

MANILA—Pokwang refuses to claim the title “Comedy Queen” despite her success in the box office. “Hindi naman po ako ‘yon, alam naman po natin kung sino si Comedy Queen,” she said in a recent interview. The title was first given to Ai Ai delas Alas, who is now with GMA network. Pokwang is back to doing the comedy show Banana Split as it takes on its new format Banana Sundae, which will start airing on November 15. “Nag-guest po ako no’ng anniversary. Siguro na-miss nila ako and then kinausap ako if puwede ako bumalik,” she said about being back in the show.

Pokwang doesn’t want to claim the “Comedy Queen” title, which was first given to Ai Ai delas Alas.

“Siyempre sabi ko why not, tutal anak-anakan ko naman ang mga ‘to.” “Nami-miss ko na rin magcomedy din,” she added. She has done several serious roles,

such as in the recently concluded primetime series Nathaniel. Pokwang also stars in the Viva film Wang Fam which will be in cinemas on November 11.

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