Us asian post june 11, 2014 by Balita Media Inc

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Vol. 3. No. 39

LOS ANGELES

Wednesday - Tuesday, June 11-17, 2014

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Supreme Court rules vs aged-out children Court says adult sons and daughters of US citizens not protected by CSPA

Balita file photo of UCLA students make posters in preparation for an immigration rally in downtown Los Angeles. The US Supreme Court has just decided the law on aged-out children does not protect the children of all family immigrant visa applicants to immigrate with their US citizen parents.’

LOS ANGELES, June 9, 2014 – Asian Americans Advancing Justice (Advancing Justice) decries today’s U.S. Supreme Court’s 5-4 ruling in Scialabba v. Cuellar de Osorio (formerly Mayorkas v. Cuellar de Osorio),involving the Child Status Protection Act (CSPA). The Court has ruled that the CSPA does not protect the children of all family immigrant visa applicants from “aging out” of eligibility to immigrate with their parents as derivative beneficiaries should they turn 21 before the visa is granted. Accordingly, the age-out protections only apply to children who fall within one family-based visa category, “F2A” petitions filed by lawful permanent resident parents. The Court’s ruling is a devastating blow to thousands of families separated by the broken immigration system. The visa backlogs take a particularly acute toll on Asian American families, with some in our community waiting for up to 20 years to be reunited with their children. Today’s de-

cision contradicts Congress’ very purpose in enacting the CSPA – to keep families together. Families should not be forced to make the impossible decision between pursuing opportunities and creating better lives in the United States while leaving behind their older children, or giving up their American Dream in order to stay together. Advancing Justice is committed to continuing our fight for humane and workable solutions to preserve family unity. Without the benefit of age-out protections, an unmarried adult son of a U.S. citizen coming from the Philippines would have to wait at least 20 years to reunite with a parent in the United States. An adult married child of a U.S. citizen coming from China could expect to wait at least 10 years. Last November, Advancing Justice joined other national immigration advocacy organizations in filing an amicus brief to support the families challenging the government’s interpretation of See SUPREME COURT, page 12

No solid evidence vs Sen. Palace sees no problem Bong Revilla on pork scam with special courts MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – The chairman of the LakasChristian Muslim Democrats (CMD) party on Monday defended Senator Ramon “Bong” Revilla Jr. against allegations he participated in the pork barrel scam, saying there was yet no solid evidence against him. “I stand solidly behind Senator Bong Revilla Jr. in his FIGHT to bring out the truth in the plunder case he is facing over his alleged participation in the pork barrel scam,” Leyte Representative Martin Romuladez said in a statement. “As a lawyer myself, I have yet to see any solid evidence against him, especially the key component of plunder, which says that the accused pocketed the money in question,” he added. Romualdez is Lakas chairman, while Revilla is the party presi-

dent. Revilla, together with Senator Juan Ponce Enrile and Jinggoy Estrada, and alleged pork barrel scam queen Janet Lim Napoles are expected to be charged with plunder before the Sandiganbayan anti-graft court after the Office of the Ombudsman turned down their appeal to quash the case. Romualdez said President Benigno Aquino III himself said that people should be regarded innocent until they have been proven guilty. “I appeal to the public not to prejudice Senator Revilla based only on press releases and supposed expert opinion,” he said. “The law provides that only the court, in this case, the Sandiganbayan can rule on the guilt or innocence of the accused,” Romualdez added. (MNS)

trying ‘pork’ plunder raps

MANILA, June 7 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday said it sees no problem with the creation of special courts by the Supreme Court to exclusively try plunder and graft charges related to the P10-billion pork barrel scam. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said the Palace hopes the Supreme Court’s eventual decision on the matter would help the proceedings go in a “timely manner” and without delay. “Kung makatutulong ito sa mabilis na pagdinig ng kaso, wala tayong magiging problema rito,” she said on government-run dzRB radio, referring to the prospective special courts. On Friday, Ombudsman Conchita Morales requested the Supreme Court to create “at least See PALACE, page 12

S. Korea to donate warship to PHL amid sea tensions

President Barack Obama and WWII veteran Kenneth (Rock) Merritt talk onboard Marine One after departing the 70th French-American Commemoration D-Day Ceremony at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial in Colleville-sur-Mer, France, June 6, 2014. (Official White House Photo by Pete Souza)

Obama lashes Republicans, then heads to Starbucks WASHINGTON, June 9, 2014 (AFP) – US President Barack Obama on Monday struck out at the literal and political constraints hemming him in during an increasingly contentious second White House term. Obama went off script to eviscerate Republicans blocking plans to ease the huge burdens in student debt many Americans carry when they graduate from college. Then Obama marched out of the White House to visit a Starbucks down the street, in a rare

unannounced foray outside the security bubble in which US presidents live. “The bear is loose,” Obama declared as he walked out the White House gate, testing his Secret Service detail. Obama has been showing increasing signs of frustration with his political plight, after failing to move significant reform legislation on Capitol Hill since his second inauguration in January 2013. See OBAMA, page 12

MANILA, June 6, 2014 (AFP) – South Korea will donate a corvette warship to the poorlyequipped Philippine navy amid growing tensions – particularly with China – over maritime territorial disputes in the region, the government said Thursday. The “Pohang-class corvette” will be decommissioned by the end of the year and donated to the Philippines, the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila said in a statement issued this week. It was unclear if the donation

Senators Jinggoy Estrada (leftmost) and Juan Ponce Enrile (rightmost) may find themselves locked in a cell after plunder charges, a non-bailable offense, have been filed against them. In photo with the senators are Jinggoy’s father, ousted president Joseph Estrada (second from right) and Vice President Jejomar Binay, who may well be the next president come 2016.

PHL set to arrest three powerful senators BY MYNARDO MACARAIG

MANILA, June 7, 2014 (AFP) – The Philippines on Saturday said it was preparing to arrest three powerful senators after an anti-graft court indicted them in a massive corruption scandal that has riveted the nation. The three, who include a son of former president Joseph Estrada and a 90year political survivor who enforced martial law under dictator Ferdinand Marcos, are accused of channeling millions of dollars of public funds into

bogus organizations in return for huge kickbacks. President Benigno Aquino took office in 2010 vowing to fight the massive corruption that has long weighed down the Southeast Asian archipelago. Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, whose investigators prepared the case against the opposition senators, said she was confident they had enough evidence. “We are confident that there is See SENATORS, page 12

See S. KOREA, page 12 Soldiers take part in a coastal cleanup at the Las Piñas-Parañaque Critical Habitat and Ecotourism area also known as ‘Freedom Island’, a haven for local migratory birds, during a World Oceans Day event in Las Pinas city, south of Manila June 9, 2014. World Oceans Day was first introduced in 1992 to raise awareness on the crucial role the sea plays as sources of food, oxygen and medicine. (MNS photo)

American NBA Blatche a proud PHL won’t be provoked by signs ‘Filipino’ MANILA, June 9, 2014 (AFP) – American NBA veteran Andray Blatche declared himself a proud Filipino on Monday as he enthused about his imminent naturalization and “once in a lifetime” chance to play in the World Cup. The 6-foot, 11-inch (2.11-metre) centre arrived in Manila over the weekend to meet his future compatriots on the Philippine basketball squad and quickly endeared See BLATCHE, page 12

of Chinese ‘reclamation’ MANILA, June 7, 2014 (AFP) – The Philippines on Saturday said it was investigating signs that China was reclaiming land on disputed South China Sea reefs but stressed it would not be provoked into a rash response. President Benigno Aquino’s spokeswoman Abigail Valte said the government was looking into reports that the Chinese were damaging the reefs in an alleged effort to turn two remote outcrops in the sea into islands.

But she added that Manila would continue to pursue a diplomatic solution to the dispute. “We do not respond to provocative action, especially (through) military action... we always exhaust the diplomatic channels, as well as other legal means that can help us address this particular issue.” She also reiterated Aquino’s earlier remarks that Chinese ships had been See RECLAMATION, page 12

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Dinky: Please don’t pit me vs Miriam MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman has nothing but respect for Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago who has promised to block Soliman’s confirmation before the Commission on Appointments. In a press statement, Soliman said she feels “relentlessly prodded” to say something bad against the senator after she was recommended for confirmation before the Senate plenary of the CA. “I have nothing ill to say about Sen. Santiago. I respect and recognize her right to perform her fiscalizing role,” the social welfare chief said. “Hence, I appeal to the public in general and the media in particular, please do not pit Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago and me against each other,” she added. Soliman said the check and balance in the country’s democracy is strengthened by Santiago’s diligence. She added that the senator’s independence of mind and determination to seek truth “are appreciated by many including myself.”

She also said she continues to pray for Senator Santiago’s health after the latter was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Santiago earlier said she is planning to invoke Section 20 of the CA Rules to suspend consideration of Soliman’s nomination as Department of Social Welfare and Development secretary. The senator said she has been opposed to Soliman’s nomination from the very beginning of the Aquino administration because the DSWD chief was a “fervent devotee of President Arroyo” who then changed allegiances and joined President Aquino’s “daang matuwid.” She also described Soliman as “dangerous” and said she has received information that the DSWD chief had denounced her. Last week, Santiago also criticized an alleged plot to block her veto after the panel that approved Soliman’s confirmation at the committee level did not submit a report, which would have been tackled at the CA’s en banc session for deliberations. (MNS)

Ex-Enrile aide Gigi Reyes seeks SC TRO vs. plunder case MANILA, June 10 (Mabuhay) – Lawyer Gigi Reyes, former chief of staff of Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile, on Tuesday asked the Supreme Court to stop the plunder charges filed against her in connection with the alleged pork barrel scam. Reyes filed the petition with the high court asking for a temporary restraining order or writ of preliminary injunction against the decision of the Office of the Ombudsman to file the case against her. In her petition, Reyes accused the Office of the Ombudsman of gravely abusing its discretion when it did not give weight to the evidence she submitted showing that all the documents linking her to the are “forged, false and fictitious.” Reyes also asked the SC to order that the plunder case filed against her be remanded or returned to the Office of the Ombudsman, and for further preliminary investigation be conducted.

President Benigno Aquino III chats with Dinky Soliman, his Social Welfare Secretary, whose appointment has yet to be confirmed.

Sotto backs De Lima’s confirmation

MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – Senator Vicente “Tito” Sotto III on Monday promised to back Justice Secretary Leila De Lima’s confirmation at the powerful Commission on Appointments (CA) after her swift action against prison officials and guards over the alleged special treatment being given to high-profile inmates. Sotto commended De Lima for her immediate action of relieving the 12 prison guards who were found responsible for the New Bilibid Prison irregularity that involved big-time drug dealers. “Her quick action on the incident should serve as example for all public officials and public servants to emulate,” he said in a statement. The senator said that if all government officials will be as resolute and decisive as Secretary De Lima, then there is no longer need for the Senate to conduct inquiries or investigations. “It is all a matter of implementing the rules, regulations and the law, with upholding public interest as the overriding principle,” Sotto said. He said the hard work put up by law enforcers

for the arrest of these lawless elements were put to waste by erring authorities who gave special treatment to the prisoners. “Sometimes, they even put their life on the line to protect our citizens from these criminals. Yet, these plagues in our society are given special treatment by erring prison guards, most likely in exchange for financial considerations.” “These illegal drug dealers are the worst cancer in our society, for they not only destroy lives but also families, communities and the entire nation as well. Thus anyone who abets, helps, and gives preferential treatment to these drug dealers should suffer the consequences,” the senator added. A long-time advocate against illegal drugs, Sotto gave his full backing to De Lima’s move to relieve the 12 prison guards. “With all these, she has my vote in the Commission on Appointments,” he said. De Lima failed to get the confirmation of the CA when she first appeared before it last week.(MNS)

Top NPA leader arrested in Negros Oriental – AFP

In Loving memory of

Leonardo V. Solis who was born in Taal, Batangas on August 15, 1937 and died in the grace of our Lord on June 7, 2014. Viewing has been scheduled for June 13, 2014, 4-8 p.m. Rosary at 6:30 p.m. Queen of Heaven Mortuary at 2161 S. Fullerton Rd., Rowland Heights, CA 91748. Funeral will be on June 14, 2014. There will be a mass 9 a.m. Mr. Solis is survived by his wife Lilia; children Ar, Jay and Deana; grandchildren Robyn and Noah; and sisters Lulu and Lydia.

MANILA, June 7 (Mabuhay) – A top New People’s Army leader was arrested in Negros Oriental by joint elements of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Philippine National Police, an AFP official said Saturday. In a press release, Maj. Ray C. Tiongson, spokesperson for the 3rd Infantry Division, said Alias Pediong or Nasyo was arrested for killing farmer Narciso Bantoto Jr. last January 17 in Barangay Tayak, Siaton, Negros Oriental. He said, Pediong, secretary of the Southeast Front, Komiteng Rehiyonal-Negros (SEF, KR-N) of

the Communist Party of the Philippines-NPA, was arrested at around 7:50 p.m. in Tanjay. On the other hand, he said the victim, Bantoto, was on his way to a benefit dance with his wife, three children, and a niece in Sitio Mainit when he was killed by armed men led by Pediong. A hand grenade, an ATM card, and three identification cards with different identities were confiscated from Pediong, Tiongson said. His arrest was attributed to efforts by the Army, PNP, and civilians, some of whom felt strongly against the death of Bantoto. (MNS)

Garlic prices remain high, Agri Dept. to probe possible ‘manipulation’ MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – Garlic prices remain high in Metro Manila on Monday, and the Department of Agriculture has started investigating what’s happening. The department also reassured the public that there is sufficient supply of the commodity, and thinks there are those trying to profit from the situation by manipulating prices. “I don’t see any reason why prices should go up, unless there are some people who are trying to manipulate the prices. This is unfair for the farmers who have successfully revived the garlic industry,” Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala said. He said he is willing to meet with retailers and wholesalers to clarify the reported surge in garlic prices.

As of 5 a.m. in Mandaluyong City Monday, garlic was selling at P250 per kilo or P8 per piece. This was slightly lower than the P280 per kilo at the Kamuning market in Quezon City last Friday. The high prices of garlic dismayed many buyers at the Kalentong Market. Garlic prices garlic surged to as much as P280 per kilo, almost matching the prices of imported garlic at P290 to P350 a kilo. Garlic prices also rose in Laoag City in Ilocos Norte, a major producer of garlic, from P180 to P200 per kilo. On the other hand, the DA cited data from the Philippine Statistics Authority showing garlic output in 2013 increased to 8,650 metric tons from 8,490 MT in 2012. (MNS)

BI, Interpol reach deal on faster ops vs. foreign criminals in PHL MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has agreed to recognize INTERPOL’s travel document (ITD), a form of epassport booklet, in an effort to make going after foreign criminals in the country easier. “This agreement will help the BI in going after foreign criminals hiding in our country and taking them immediately under INTERPOL custody will surely help us lessen the costs of their custody in the country,” Mison said in a statement Monday. Mison said the BI concurred on the draft template agreement with the INTERPOL after a series of exchange of notes with the Philippine Center for Transnational Crimes (PCTC), whose members are retired military and police generals and law enforcement officials. The INTERPOL is an international organization under the United Nations whose mandate is to ensure and promote the widest possible mutual assistance between police authorities of the different countries. Its agents require moving across international border with ease in order to effectively cope with global security challenges. The ITD was developed by the INTERPOL after it noticed that providing assistance to an affected country is slowed

down by visa requirements or bureaucratic formalities. Under the template agreement, the ITD shall only be issued in carrying out official duties for INTERPOL, namely to help prevent or combat ordinary law crime, to respond to a major crime or disaster, to provide training, expertise or support to law enforcement needs of a member country. Holders of the ITD shall include the members of Interpol’s executive committee, members of the Commission for the Control of Interpol Files, Interpol Advisers, all Interpol General Secretariat staff and other law enforcement officers designated by the Interpol General Secretariat or the Executive Committee, staff members of National Central Bureau’s (NCBs, Chiefs of law enforcement agencies, and law enforcement officers appointed by the heads of NCB. Mison said the members of the PCTC will participate in an INTERPOL statutory meeting or any other meeting organized by INTERPOL general secretariat and to participate in official events organized by the governmental, regional and international bodies in the interest of INTERPOL. (MNS)

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LOS ANGELES

Christine Love, first Fil-Am to sing Star Spangled Banner in Dodgers Filipino Heritage Night June 13 The Los Angeles Dodgers is hosting its 5th Annual Filipino Heritage Night on Friday, June 13 at the 56,000-seater Dodger Stadium. This is to honor the celebration of the Philippine Independence Day (June 12). Christine Love, a two-time winner of an Aliw Award, will be singing the Star Spangled Banner on the said Filipino Heritage Night. Through the efforts of Mutch Cariño of Maxx Promos, it will be the first time that a Filipino artist has been selected to sing the U.S. National Anthem in this annual celebration of Filipino culture. The L.A. Dodgers will be facing the Arizona Diamondbacks at 7:10 p.m., wherein everyone will enjoy a spectacular “Friday Night Fireworks” show after the game. The Filipino Heritage Night offers a Special Event Ticket package that includes:

Christine Love, a two-time winner of an Aliw Award, will be singing the Star Spangled Banner on the said Filipino Heritage Night. This will be the first time that a Filipino artist has been selected to sing the U.S. National Anthem in this annual celebration of Filipino culture.

• A commemorative Dodger Filipino Heritage Night T-shirt

• Access to the Coca-Cola All You Can Eat Pavilion • Unlimited Dodger Dogs, nachos, popcorn, peanuts and soda A portion of the proceeds from this event will directly support the American Red Cross in their Philippine Typhoon relief efforts. Groups of 20 or more tickets can be purchased by calling the Dodger Group Sales department at 323-DODGERS or by emailing britnih@ladodgers.com. Groups of 20 or more will also receive special benefits including a personalized group message printed on their tickets and shown on the message board during the game. Individual game tickets can be purchased by visiting www.dodgers.com/filipino. Don’t miss the Dodgers Filipino Heritage Night celebration. Buy your tickets today.

Vietnam airs video of Chinese ship ramming fishing boat BY CAT BARTON

HANOI, June 6, 2014 (AFP) – Vietnam has released dramatic footage showing a large Chinese ship chasing and ramming one of its fishing boats which then sank near an oil rig in contested waters. The communist neighbours have traded accusations over the May 26 sinking incident, with Hanoi decrying an “inhuman act” by China, which blamed intrusion by the Vietnamese vessel. The video images, shot from a nearby Vietnamese vessel, show a much larger Chinese ship racing after a small wooden Vietnamese fishing boat, ploughing into it and causing the Vietnamese vessel to tip over and sink. “Oh! They rammed and sank it,” a man on the boat from which the footage was filmed can be heard shouting. Vietnamese officials have said the 10 fishermen on board were rescued by nearby vessels after the incident, which occurred about 12 nautical miles southwest of the oil rig. The heavily-damaged boat was towed to Vietnam’s Ly Son island, off the coast of central Quang Ngai province, and a local official has suggested it be placed in a museum, the Tuoi Tre newspaper reported. A local ship building expert,

who inspected the vessel, said the scale of the damage showed “the attack is an intentional act that was aimed at killing Vietnamese fishermen,” Nguyen Van Sy told Tuoi Tre. It was the first ship reported sunk since the dispute flared in early May. The standoff has seen repeated skirmishes between scores of Chinese and Vietnamese vessels, including many fishing boats. The confrontations have reportedly also included the use of water cannon. ‘Brutally treated’ Vietnam said Thursday that Chinese vessels guarding the oil rig had injured 12 people – including the 10 on the sunken boat – and damaged 24 Vietnamese law enforcement vessels since the standoff began in early May. An additional 12 fishing vessels have been damaged, according to Ha Le, deputy head of Vietnam Fisheries Surveillance Department. “They were prevented from fishing, threatened by Chinese vessels, had their equipment destroyed and the crews were brutally treated,” he said. Relations between Vietnam and China have plummeted over the oil rig’s presence, which has worsened an increasingly heated dispute over territorial claims in

the area. The oil rig is positioned in the vicinity of the contested Paracel Islands, which are known as Hoang Sa in Vietnam and called Xisha by Beijing. “Every day, China has between 30 and 137 boats around the oil rig, including six warships,” said Ngo Ngoc Thu, the deputy commander of the Vietnam Coast Guard. “Vietnamese ships are being restrained... and trying to avoid China’s ramming,” he said, adding that Vietnam had not been using water cannon against Chinese boats. Tensions over the oil rig sparked violent anti-Chinese riots in Vietnam last month. Beijing says four Chinese citizens died in the unrest, while Vietnam says three Chinese died. Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung has said China’s placement of the rig in the contested area “seriously threatened peace”. China claims nearly all of the South China Sea, even waters approaching the coasts of its neighbours, and has become increasingly assertive in staking those claims. Vietnam, the Philippines, Brunei, Malaysia and Taiwan have competing claims to parts of the sea.

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PHL eyes protest vs China’s artificial island MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – China’s reported plan to build a military base on an artificial island at the Fiery Cross Reef, known in the Philippines as Kagitingan Reef, could undermine the Philippines’ arbitration case, a Department of Foreign Affairs spokesman said Monday. DFA Spokesman Charles Jose said the Philippine government has yet to confirm the report, which first came out in the South China Morning Post. “If the report is true, very clearly what China is doing is it intends to alter the status quo and change the character of the feature and we believe that by doing so they will prejudice the arbitration we have filed against China before [the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea],” Jose said. If confirmed, he said the Philippines will lodge a protest before Beijing. Jose said the Philippines is working with its partners and allies in the region to protect its territorial and maritime interests and ensure the freedom of navigation in the waters of the South China Sea. He said the Philippines is working with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for the creation of a Code of Conduct in the South China Sea and has recently forged the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) with the United States. “Hopefully, that will strengthen and advance our external and territorial defense. Of course, we are also trying to cooperate with our partners like Japan, South Korea and Australia,” he said. The South China Morning Post earlier reported China plans to construct an artificial island with all supporting installations like air and sea ports. The island would be constructed on the Fiery Cross Reef, known in the Philippines as Kagitingan Reef, the report said. Jin Canrong, a professor of international relations at Beijing’s Renmin University, said the proposal has already been submitted to China’s central government. be said the artificial island would be at least double the size of the US military base of Diego Garcia, a 44-square-kilometer American military base in the In-

dian Ocean. Analysts say China’s move indicates a shift from defense to offense in the East and South China Seas. It is also seen as a step to the declaration of an air defense identification zone. Analysts warned reclamation at the Fiery Cross Atoll, which is claimed by China, the Philippines and Vietnam, would further strain Beijing’s relations with neighbors. The Philippines earlier said it was investigating signs that China was reclaiming land on disputed South China Sea reefs but stressed it would not be provoked into a rash response. President Benigno Aquino’s spokeswoman Abigail Valte said the government was looking into reports that the Chinese were damaging the reefs in an alleged effort to turn two remote outcrops in the sea into islands. But she added that Manila would continue to pursue a diplomatic solution to the dispute. “We do not respond to provocative action, especially (through) military action... we always exhaust the diplomatic channels, as well as other legal means that can help us address this particular issue.” She also reiterated Aquino’s earlier remarks that Chinese ships had been spotted in the South China Sea, possibly carrying land reclamation equipment. The two reefs are within the Spratly Islands region, a disputed archipelago of reefs, islands and atolls in the South China Sea that is coveted by the Philippines, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. Photographs allegedly taken by the Philippine military showing Chinese ships engaged in land reclamation off a reef, were published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, a major Manila daily on Saturday. However an Armed Forces spokesman could not confirm if the photos were genuine. Last month, the Philippines publicly accused Beijing of largescale reclamation activity at another location within the Spratlys, the Chinese-held Johnson South Reef.

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CBCP: Who are we to condemn pork scammers? MANILA, June 9 (Mabuhay) – The president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines is urging Filipinos not to condemn several individuals including three senators who are facing plunder charges over the multi-billion pork barrel scandal. In a report on CBCPNews, Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas reminded Christians to “love at all times, even those who sin and err, for none of us is above human frailty.” “For those among us who are not accused, let us remember that the offenses with which those who now stand accused are charged could very well be the offense of any of us as well,” he said. “Who are we to condemn? Let the one who has no sin be the first to cast a stone,” he added. Villegas urged officials not to act out of hatred or desire for vengeance. He said a vengeful action “cannot be from God.” “Let no action – official, personal or otherwise – be ever born out of hatred or a desire for vengeance,” he said. “Let everything we do be born out of sincere love for each other and concern for the common good for only then will we be recognized as disciples of the Divine Master who searches out and rescues the lost and the weak,” he added. The CBCP president said those tasked to prosecute the cases must “observe total commitment to the human rights of the accused.” “Everybody culpable, whatever their political affiliations may be, should be investigated and, if so warranted, indicted. When justice is selective, it is not justice at all,” he said. The Office of the Ombudsman on Friday formally filed before the Sandiganbayan plunder charges against three senators and several individuals linked to the P10 billion pork barrel scam. Facing plunder raps before the Sandiganbayan are Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada, Bong Revilla, Janet Lim Napoles, Jessica Reyes, Ronald John Lim, John Raymund de Asis, Pauline Labayen, John de Asis and Richard Cambe.(MNS)

Filing of charges against three senators, major step to unearth truth about ‘pork barrel scam’, says Palace MANILA, June 7 (Mabuhay) – The filing of charges by the Office of the Ombudsman against Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Ramon Revilla Jr., and Jinggoy Estrada is a significant step to ferret out the truth with regards to the P10-billion pork barrel scam, the Palace said on Saturday. “This constitutes a major step forward in our mission to find out the truth about these anomalies,” Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said in a radio interview over dzRB Radyo ng Bayan. And in the midst of misinformation brought about by dishonesty and politicking, the administration remains firmly committed to unearthing the facts, Valte added. At the same time, Valte noted that the administration will continue to push for reforms in government aimed at strengthening the foundations of transparency and accountability in the bureaucracy. Asked if the Palace is prepared for any backlash from the followers of the three lawmakers, Valte said the government has enough measures to deal with such circumstances. And if the court issues arrest warrants for the three senators being accused of plunder, the executive branch is ready to execute the court order, she said. “The executive will be the one to be tasked to carry it out. So in that case, as in any high profile case that involves high profile personalities, gagawin lang po ng ating pamahalaan ang iuutos sa ng korte at kung ano lang ang nararapat,” she said. The palace has not received any information about destabilization plots against the government, she said. Valte also brushed off allegations that the filing of charges against the three senators was rushed as the President prepares his State of the Nation Address (SONA). She said the Office of the Ombudsman was given enough time to review and to consider all the pieces of evidence that was submitted by the Department of Justice. Also, the Office of the Ombudsman is an independent constitutional body from the executive branch, Valte added. (MNS)

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China decries PHL-Vietnam games as ‘farce’ BEIJING, June 9, 2014 (AFP) – China on Monday expressed displeasure after Vietnamese and Filipino troops played sports together on a contested island, with the foreign ministry denouncing the activity as “a farce”. The retort from Beijing came one day after Vietnam hosted Filipino troops on an island it controls in the disputed Spratlys archipelago in the South China Sea that the Philippines’ navy said was designed to “foster camaraderie”. Tensions between China and both countries have risen in recent months over contested territory in the region, with a dispute between Hanoi and Beijing triggering violent anti-Chinese riots in Vietnam last month. Asked about the joint sports activity, Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Monday at a regular briefing: “Don’t you think that these small tricks conducted by the Philippines and Vietnam are nothing but a farce?” She also urged Hanoi and Manila to “refrain from taking any actions that may complicate or magnify the dispute” and said that China “exercises indisputable sovereignty over the Nansha Islands and adjacent waters”, referring to the Spratlys by their Chinese name. The first-ever joint games between the Philippine and Vietnamese navies saw them play football and volleyball and were designed to “foster camaraderie” among the troops, Philippine Navy spokesman Lieutenant Commander Gregory Fabic said. “This also serves as a model of cooperation for the other navies to emulate,” Fabic added, without

mentioning China by name. The Spratlys are a disputed group of reefs, islands and atolls coveted by the Philippines, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. The region is believed to sit atop oil and other mineral deposits and all of the claimants, save for Brunei, have troops in the islands. Tensions between China and Vietnam have escalated sharply in recent weeks following Beijing’s dispatch of an oil rig to waters surrounding another contested island group, the Paracels. Last week, Vietnam released dramatic footage showing a large Chinese ship chasing and ramming one of its fishing boats, which then sank near the rig. Beijing responded Monday by issuing a lengthy defence of its use of the rig on both the foreign ministry website and via the official Xinhua news agency. “We find it necessary to tell the international community what really happened so as to restore the truth,” Hua said when asked about the document. China is asking Vietnam to “bring those lawbreakers to account and make full compensations to China,” she added. The Philippines—which has filed a plea to the United Nations challenging Beijing’s claims to about 70 percent of the South China Sea—said Saturday it was investigating reports that China was reclaiming land in the Spratlys area. Hua said she was unable to verify or comment on the reports but maintained that “what kinds of activities China is going to conduct in the Nansha Islands is within China’s jurisdiction”.

No decision on White House run before year’s end: Clinton WASHINGTON, June 8, 2014 (AFP) – Hillary Clinton won’t make her intentions known about a possible White House before year’s end, she said in an interview broadcast Sunday. “I will be on the way to making a decision by the end of the year,” she said in a taped interview with ABC television. “Certainly not before then.” Clinton’s remark came as she embarks on a sweeping book tour for her latest memoir “Hard Choices.” “I just want to kind of get through this year, travel around the country, sign books, help in the midterm elections in the fall, and then take a deep breath and kind of go through my pluses and minuses about what I will—and will not—be thinking about as I make the decision,” she said. Her non-committal remarks notwithstanding, many see Clinton’s book tour launch this week as an unofficial start to her expected presidential run. Her book, scheduled for publication on June 10, is widely seen as a chance for her to re-craft and fine-tune her image ahead of a 2016 campaign. Clinton, 66, who lost to President Barack Obama in their 2008 battle for the Democratic presidential nomination, is mulling a second White House run. As has been her style, Clinton spoke opaquely about her political plans, careful not to rule out, or rule in, a future presidential bid. Meanwhile, a poll released Sunday morning showed she has commanding support among Democrats, making her the prohibitive early favorite to lock up her party’s nomination, if she seeks it. The new ABC News-Washington Post poll found that 69 percent of Democrats and Democraticleaning independents support Clinton as the party’s presidential candidate. Clinton also fared well among the broader US public, with 67 percent of Americans viewing her as a strong leader, 60 percent saying she’s honest and trustworthy, and 59 percent saying she has new ideas for the country’s future. The poll found that 59 percent of Americans approve of Clinton’s overall job performance as sec-

retary of state. That number fell to 37 percent however when respondents were specifically asked about Clinton’s handling of the attack in Benghazi, Libya where a US ambassador and three other Americans were killed. Battling sexism, rejecting charge of racism Clinton addressed the Benghazi controversy in her book, writing that she refuses to “exploit this tragedy over and over as a political tool” nor would she “minimize the sacrifice of those who served our country,” according to excerpts released before publication. In other excerpts released ahead of the book’s publication, Clinton writes about mending fences with Obama after their bruising primary battle. In their early meetings, she and Obama aired grievances, including over what Clinton called “the preposterous charge of racism” against her husband, Bill, for remarks he made on the campaign trail. “Barack made clear that neither he nor his team believed that accusation,” she said. She also addresses sexism that surfaced against her during the primary campaign, saying “I knew that it arose from cultural and psychological attitudes about women’s roles in society, but that didn’t make it any easier for me and my supporters.” Clinton also writes about her views on Russian President Vladimir Putin, describing a memo she sent to Obama before leaving her post—months before the Ukraine crisis that the West accuses the Kremlin of choreographing. In her book, Clinton says she told Obama: “Don’t appear to eager to work together. Don’t flatter Putin with high-level attention.” But many reviews suggest the former top US diplomat’s wide-ranging book suffers from too much diplomacy—leaving out the juicy details that reveal what was really going on behind the scenes—in order to preserve relationships and shape her image ahead of another presidential bid.

Angelina Jolie says ‘no shame’ in being a survivor BY GUY JACKSON

LONDON, June 10, 2014 (AFP) – Hollywood star Angelina Jolie said Tuesday that a global summit to end sexual violence in wars must send the message that there is “no disgrace” in being a rape survivor and that “the shame is on the aggressor”. British Foreign Secretary William Hague said at the opening of the four-day conference in London that it was only a “weak or inadequate man” that abuses women – a statement that drew cheers from the crowd. The conference is the fruit of a two-year campaign by UN special envoy Jolie and Hague, who have visited the Democratic Republic of Congo and Bosnia to meet victims of rape during wars. In her opening remarks to the End Sexual Violence in Conflict summit, Jolie said she and Hague had met a woman in Bosnia who was still too ashamed to tell her son that she had been raped. “This day is for her,” said Jolie. “We believe it truly is a summit like no other.” In a speech greeted by rapturous applause, Jolie said: “We must send a message around the world that there is no disgrace in being a survivor of sexual violence, that the shame is on the aggressor.” She said it is a “myth” that rape was inevitable in war. “There is nothing inevitable about it – it is a weapon of war aimed at civilians. It has nothing to do with sex, everything to do with power,” the “A Mighty Heart” star said. Jolie said she had met rape survivors in countries including Afghanistan and Somalia, and they are “just like us, with one crucial difference”. “We live in safe countries with doctors we can go to when we’re hurt, police we can turn to when we’re wronged, and institutions that protect us,” she said. “They live in refugee camps, on bombed-out

streets, in areas where there is no law, no protection, and not even the hope of justice.” ‘Taboo for too long’ Jolie said the international community needs to work to make “justice the norm”. She called for the prevention of rape in conflict to be incorporated into the training of all armies, peacekeeping troops and police forces. “This whole subject has been taboo for far too long,” she said. Jolie said the stigma causes survivors to suffer feelings of “shame” and “worthlessness”. “It feeds ignorance, such as the notion that rape has anything to do with normal sexual impulses,” she said. “But most of all it allows the rapist to get away with it. They feel above the law because the law rarely touches them and society tolerates them.” Hague announced that Britain will pledge a further £6 million (£10 million, 7.4 million euros) to help survivors of sexual violence in conflict. US Secretary of State John Kerry, who will attend the conference on Friday, said delegates from 117 countries wanted to “relegate sexual violence to the annals of history”. The summit includes 150 events open to the public in what the organizers hope will be a giant exercise in raising awareness. Almost 150 governments have endorsed a declaration of commitment to end sexual violence in conflict. Organizers also want to increase and improve the documentation of rape in warzones to allow more prosecutions to be brought. Liesl Gerntholtz, of Human Rights Watch, told AFP that while most victims were women and girls, “there’s an emerging body of research and documentation that certainly shows that men have been targeted”.

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UTREACH CPUC to hold community information meeting on proposed San Onofre settlement agreement

Live auction at the benefi t dinner of Hope after Haiyan from left to right: Sr. Lydia Villegas, Rocio Nuyda, Loida Nicolas Lewis, Gloria Caoile, Cecile Mandanas Enrile, Nymia Mandanas Cucueco, Mila Magno.

Hope after Haiyan benefit dinner a huge success A dinner gathering to raise funds for the victims of typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) was a big success as a big group of most influential Filipino-Americans came to extend their generosity last Saturday (June 1) at the former Hollywood legendary Mary Pickford Estate to rebuild a school in Tacloban, Leyte. Our kababayans Edwin and Lani Raquel, who own the beautiful mansion, were generous enough to offer their home as the venue to raise funds for the Missionary of Benedictine Sisters of Tacloban, who have been helping the survivors of the typhoon that wrought havoc in Tacloban and surrounding cities and municipalities. Hope After Haiyan committee and FilAm Arts chairperson Rocio Nuyda expressed his gratitude and appreciation to all the guests, including the Benedicitine Alumni (Agnesians, Scholasticans, Bedans), generous donors and entertainers – whose musical virtuosity was apparent throughout their performances, the media, vendors and many volunteers.

Vegas cop killers ‘saw police as oppressors’ LOS ANGELES, June 9, 2014 (AFP) – A couple who shot dead two Las Vegas cops in cold blood apparently saw police as oppressors, a spokesman said Monday, revealing chilling details of the execution-style attack. The couple, identified as Jerad and Amanda Miller, placed a swastika symbol at the scene of the cop killings before going on to kill a civilian at a nearby Walmart and then killing themselves. They apparently had views “along the lines” of white supremacists, although police do not believe they were themselves white supremacists, said assistant sheriff Kevin McMahill. Jerad Miller pinned a note to one of the bodies stating: “This is the beginning of the revolution” after killing them in cold blood at a pizza restaurant where the officers were having lunch. The couple entered the restaurant Sunday, walked past the booth where the officers were eating, and then Jerad Miller “pulled a handgun out and shot officer (Igor) Soldo one time in the back of his head,” said McMahill. “Officer Soldo immediately succumbed to his injuries. At that time, officer (Alyn) Beck immediately began to react, when he was confronted by lethal gunfire from Jerad Miller, and he was shot once in the throat area,” he told reporters. The couple then both shot multiple rounds into the two officers, before pulling their bodies out of the restaurant booth.

ROSEMEAD, Calif., JUNE 9, 2014 – The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) will hold a community information meeting June 16 in Costa Mesa on the proposed San Onofre nuclear plant settlement agreement currently before the commission. The proposed agreement was announced to the commission on March 27 by Southern California Edison (SCE), San Diego Gas & Electric, the state’s Office of Ratepayer Advocates, consumer representatives and other parties to resolve all issues regarding the commission’s investigation of San Onofre Units 2 and 3. The purpose of the meeting is to review the terms of the settlement and to gather input from the public, including from the communities surrounding San Onofre. The presiding administrative law judge will open the meeting with an explanation of the terms of the settlement by the supporting parties, followed by a similar opportunity for opposing parties to explain their views. The remaining time (beginning about 4:45 p.m.) is dedicated to public inquiry and comment. Attendance is encouraged. What: Community Information Meeting When: Monday, June 16, 4-7 p.m.

Where: Costa Mesa Neighborhood Community Center 1845 Park Avenue, Costa Mesa In November 2012, the commission opened an investigation (I1210013) into the extended outages of both nuclear generating units at San Onofre. Over the past 18 months, the commission has received evidence and argument on a range of issues related to associated costs. However, not all issues have been heard, nor has any final decision been issued. SCE announced June 7, 2013 that it would retire San Onofre Units 2 and 3, and begin preparations to decommission the facility. For more information about the settlement, visit the CPUC website’s list of documents in the investigation, and specifically the motion asking the commission to adopt the settlement which was filed on April 3. About Southern California Edison An Edison International (NYSE:EIX) company, Southern California Edison is one of the nation’s largest electric utilities, serving a population of nearly 14 million via 4.9 million customer accounts in a 50,000-square-mile service area within Central, Coastal and Southern California.

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Consulate General of LA Leo Herrera Lim and his wife, Business woman Loida Nicolas Lewis and Rocio Nuyda, Chairperson Hope After Haiyan and FilAm Arts. Photos: Marc Pijuan

Nuyda also thanked honorary co-chairs Edwin and Lani Raquel, honorary guest Sr. Lydia Villegas, OSB, Ambassador Harry Thomas and Mrs. Mithi Thomas, White House Chief

Executive Chef Cristeta Comerford, Fil-Am Community Leader and Businesswoman Loida Nicolas-Lewis, Consul General Leo Herrera Lim, Peter Huh and Jihee Kim Hun.

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Elegantly casual Sushi & Oyster Bar replaces Seafood Grotto inside state’s largest resort/casino, Pechanga Resort & Casino Pechanga Resort & Casino presents all new restaurant and menu at Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar As part of Pechanga Resort & Casino’s multimillion dollar renovation through the fall and winter of 2013, Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar welcomes guests into its inviting ambiance filled with inventive seafood selections married with a whimsical South American flair. Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar opened its doors to the public on Monday, December 30, just in time for the New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day rush of tens of thousands of visitors to Pechanga Resort & Casino. Instead of the dark and secluded-looking Seafood Grotto, which it replaced, guests are treated to a sparkling, full cocktail bar as they pass the hostess station. Further into the restaurant lies the three-sided, rectangular sushi bar with live wood and iridescent marble finishes. Comfortable booth and table seating also awaits couples and groups. Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar is open nightly for dinner at 5:00p.m. For more information or reservation about Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar, please visit www.Pechanga.com or call (877) 7112946. Sushi Chefs’ Bios Masahito “Masa” Nagashima, from Kanagawa, Japan, studied Italian and French cooking in Yokohama. In New York City, he worked as a sushi chef in a few of the city’s top Japanese fusion restaurants. Since then, he has worked at top hotels and resorts in Southern California. Ichiro “Jake” Takao grew up in near a fishing village in Japan. His family opened a very popular ocean front restaurant where he worked with the freshest seafood. Jake and his family came to the small town of Temecula where his family opened the “Nihon” restaurant and sushi bar. Here, Jake became somewhat of a Temecula celebrity. To this day, people walk-in to Umi Sushi and Oyster Bar and recognize him. Kazuhisa “Kaz” Miyano, from Saitama, Japan, came to California in the early1980s as a sushi chef and worked in Los Angeles’s top sushi bars in including the acclaimed Hamayoshi restaurant. In the early 90s, Kaz moved to San Diego, Calif. and joined award winning restaurant Café Japango, where he learned to combine traditional Japanese and French cooking techniques. Umi’s Selection Chef de cuisine of Umi Sushi & Oyster Bar, Damian Stanley, calls the restaurant’s selection of sushi, sashimi, hand rolls, cut rolls, raw bar, small plates (appetizers) and big plates (entrees) current, cutting-edge and comforting. Items such as the clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl like on the piers in San Francisco, and the gumbo and jambalaya he refers to as comforting. Of the moment

Umi- Crunchy Roll

dishes include a Japanese-South American fusion such as the Seared Miso Anticuchos Chilean Sea Bass with Peruvian Corn and Soy Glaze, or the Octopus a la Planch with Quinoa Salad, Confit Fingerling Potatoes, Tomato Marmalade and Chimichurri Drizzle. Cutting-edge menu items are the Bone Marrow Lobster with Pear, Tatsoi Salad, Celery Root Skordalia and Black Truffle Vinaigrette and the seemingly unassuming Salmon, served with Panela Glaze, Tomatillo Quinoa and a Citrus-Olive Compote. New Membership Benefit Rewards If you are not yet a member of The Club at Pechanga, signing up is free and easy. Open to everyone 21 and older with valid ID, simply stop by the club desk and you will soon be on your way to accumulating valuable perks each time you play your favorite slots and table games. New members of The Club at Pechanga can SPIN TO WIN for guaranteed Club Dollars up to $1000! The More You Play, The More We Pay! For more information, call (877) 711-2946 or log onto www.Pechanga.com. About Pechanga Resort & Casino Pechanga Resort & Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the country. Rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort & Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering more than 3,000 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 517 hotel rooms, dining, spa and championship golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort & Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free 1-877-7112946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort & Casino on Facebook. com/Pechanga and on Twitter @PechangaCasino. Pechanga Resort & Casino is open 24-hours. Guests must be 21 and older to enter the casino.

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Latest trend watch: Yoga moves skyward

Chanel chose the beach as the setting for a video presenting its new summer makeup line, Reflets d’Été. ©Solve Sundsbo pour Chanel

Chanel presents summer makeup line in new video (Relaxnews) – The French brand spotlights its new makeup collection in a new campaign video shot by the fashion photographer Solve Sundsbo. In March, Chanel revealed details on its latest summer makeup collection, Reflets d’Été (“summer reflections”). Today, the luxury brand has shared a first look at the campaign for the new line, featuring the Hungarian model Vanessa Axente. Wearing a fuchsia swimsuit and makeup from the new line, the young blonde is seen reclining on a beach of golden sand. What could be more summery? The Reflets d’Été collection

combines gloss and luminous colors for the lips with metallic reflections in the eyes. New Illusion D’Ombre eyeshadows in copper, gold and pink provide a sensual, shimmery look that’s perfect for both daytime and evening. To complement these dramatic metallic effects in the eye area, the lips are slightly more subtle and without shimmer. The latest Lèvres Scintillantes lip glosses from the Chanel Makeup Creation Studio emphasize sheer shades of pink, coral, orange and fuchsia. The items in the Reflets d’Été line are available for between $27 and $36 in the US.

(Relaxnews) – In the quest for the higher power that embodies the core concept of yoga, practitioners are heading towards the sky. The newest locale to offer elevated om-sessions is the Shard, the tallest building in Europe, situated near London Bridge. Starting on June 7, yogis from London’s Yogasphere center will gather once a week in the visitor attraction room called the View. It’s a classically peaceful atmosphere offering panoramic views cluttered only by clouds at a height of 1,016 feet (310 meters). Weather permitting, classes are to be held in the adjacent open-air area but the price of 40 pounds remains unchanged. If the idea seems tailored to the most daring among yogis, it’s the latest in a new trend. On the other side of the equator, over several mountain ranges and a desert or two, a weekly class is offered by the Sydney Tower Eye’s very own Yoga in the SKY program, held on the observation deck, 258 meters above street level. The class costs 25 Australian dollars and is held at the crack of dawn to allow participants to benefit from the beauty of sunrise. The idea of taking yoga to new

Across the globe, yogis are downward dogging at new heights. ©wavebreakmedia / shutterstock.com

heights is hardly new, for the ancient practice is said to have developed in the Himalayan Mountains. Companies like Nepal-based Purna Yoga & Treks offer high-altitude retreats for yogis wanting to experience their passion close to its presumed place of origin. Clinical studies have observed the response to increased altitude among yoga practitioners, indicating that advanced breathing techniques might ease the adjustment for them relative to yoga laymen.

High Altitude Yoga classes have been offered for several years at Taos Ski Valley in New Mexico at a minimum elevation of over 9,000 feet. Instructors say practitioners benefit from the thinner air, which makes the body work harder. Although the effects of the elevation on the top of the Shard and Sydney Tower are probably negligible to the lungs, the idea is to allow urban dwellers to experience the ritual in a room with a view nearly as spectacular as from a mountain top.

Doctor emphasizes babies’ need for additional vitamin D

(Relaxnews) – Experts finally agree on one thing in the bottle vs. breastfeeding debacle: Regardless of how their mothers choose to feed them, babies need more vitamin D. The milk of most breastfeeding mothers contains very little vitamin D, and additives in formulas are largely insufficient, says Dr. Robert Heaney, a clinical endocrinologist specializing in nutrition and a professor at Creighton University in Nebraska. Although vitamin D is important throughout life, it is essential within the first year in reducing risk of current infections and later development of autoimmune dis-

eases such as multiple sclerosis and type 1 diabetes. Dr. Heaney cites a study published a year ago in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism that indicates vitamin D plays a crucial role in metabolism and hormonal functioning. While the amount of vitamin D necessary for adults is debatable, according to Dr. Heaney, the requirements for infants are more obvious. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommend 400 IUs delivered daily in drops. While this number is widely agreed upon

as being necessary for infants, Dr. Heaney says that in the case of breastfeeding mothers, milk becomes sufficient in vitamin D when the mother maintains a daily intake between 5,000 and 6,000 IUs. Mid-day summer sun can help the body produce 10,000 IUs in just one 15-minute, total-body exposure. For those who believe natural is best, this eliminates the need for vitamin D drops, according to Heaney. Given that the benefits of breastfeeding have long been considered numerous and more beneficial than bottle feeding, surprise is a normal reaction to research that suggests human milk to be insufficient in anything.

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Aga Muhlach denies rumors of split with Charlene

Zanjoe and Bea

Zanjoe vows Bea will be his last girlfriend

The reason actor Zanjoe Marudo has yet to propose to girlfriend Bea Alonzo is because he is still saving up for their future. Marudo explained he is more concerned about securing their life after the wedding than on planning his proposal to Alonzo. “Kumbaga hindi naman ‘yun ang pinaghahandaan ko. Hindi ‘yung proposal or ‘yung kasal. Hindi ko sinasabing hindi importante. Importante ‘yun kasi minsan lang mangyayari ‘yun. Sa akin, sa ngayon ang pinaplano ko, pinaghahandaan ko sa utak ko, ‘yung after, ‘yung paglagay sa tahimik, kung paano mo bibigyan ng magandang kinabukasan ‘yung bubuuin mong pamilya,” he said. Marudo said he would just think of how he would ask for Alonzo’s hand in marriage when he feels that everything else is ready. “Kasi ‘yung proposal, kasal, madali na ‘yan kapag malapit na. Mas maganda kung bigla mo siyang maisip kung paano,” he said. According to Marudo, he and Alonzo only get to talk about settling down when they are at the weddings of their common friends. “Mas pinag-uusapan namin kapag merong mga kinakasal na parang ang ganda nung kasal nila. Pero ‘yung sa amin, parang nagkakailangan pa kung paano paplanuhin. Kasi malayo pa naman, nakakailang din nap ag-usapan. Alangan naman mag-assume ako agad?” he said. Asked when will he see himself proposing to Alonzo, the actor said, “Hindi ko kayang bigyan ng saktong panahon. Siguro kapag dumating talaga ‘yung time, malay mo bigla kong maisip, bigla akong nagkaroon ng lakas ng loob na tanungin or mag-ask ng permiso sa pamilya niya. Siguro kung handa na akong malaman kung ano na ‘yung sagot.” Marudo, however, is hoping that Alonzo is already the one he will spend the rest of his life with. “Sana. Nung isang beses may nagtanong sa akin, ‘Pang-ilang girlfriend mo na si Bea?’ Sabi ko panghuli,” he said.

Aga Muhlach directly denied the speculations to finally end the rumors about his marriage with Charlene Gonzales. “Thank you for your concern my friend. Really appreciate it. Hayaan na natin sila. We’re all good, no worries,” the actor said. Gonzales, for his part, chose to remain silent about the issue but her mom, Elvie, denied the rumors. “Not true. Bayaan mo na, basta happy sila,” she said. Rumors that Aga Charlene has spread online following a blind item detailing the separation of a celebrity couple who already have kids. In the blind item, the actress allegedly decided to end their relationship after she found out about the actor’s affair with a 20-year-old dancer.

However, the couple agreed to keep their status private and just stay at the same house but sleep in separate bedrooms to protect their family’s endorsements. Netizens speculated in the comments section that the item was referring to Muhlach and Gonzales. But on May 28, Muhlach posted a video of Gonzales’ wedding anniversary surprise on his Facebook account. In the video recorded by Muhlach himself, the actor was seen following a trail of white petals leading to a surprise special breakfast by Gonzales for their 13th wedding anniversary. “Good morning, guys! I woke up to this,” Muhlach said in the video, referring to his wife’s early morning surprise, “Man, oh man! She always does this to me.”

Aga and Charlene

Muhlach also posted on Instagram a photo of him and Gonzales together at the recently concluded Philippine Movie Press Club (PMPC) Star Awards.

Krista Miller: I sell real estate, not my body Sexy starlet Krista Miller was emotional as she spoke up on the controversy linking her to the special treatment given to convicted drug lord Ricardo Camata at a hospital in Manila. Miller stressed that her visit to Camata last May 31 was “purely business” since she was only trying to sell real estate, not her body. “Kaya nga po ako nagta-trabaho ng maayos. Kaya nga po ako nagti-tyaga akong pumasok sa opisina, nage-MRT ako, hindi ko iniisip na artista ako tuwing pumapasok ako sa opisina kasi para sa akin ay nagta-trabaho ako. Walang special treatment dito, walang VIP, VIP dito, basta ako nagta-trabaho ng maayos, kung ano ang dapat kong sundin sa opisina ginagawa ko,” Miller said. The actress said she decided to speak up to give her side after receiving negative and hurtful messages via social media. “Unang una po, sa social media, kalat naman po doon, nababasa ko ang comment nila sa akin, yun

ang hindi ko ma-take kaya nakapag-decide kaming magsasalita na ako kasi habang tumatagal hindi alam ng tao kung ano yung totoo,” said Miller, who faced the media with her talent managers. “Pumunta ako ng ospital, purely business ang ipinunta ko doon dahil pina-follow up ko ang deal namin ni Mr. Camata. Wala po akong ibang masamang ginawa doon sa loob yun lamang po,” she said. Miller said she met Camata when she joined National Bilibid Prison’s “sagala night.” “Hindi ko alam ang background ni Mr. Camata. Ako po, ang ginawa ko ay nagbebenta lang ako,” said Miller, who also offered to cooperate with the Department of Justice. Miller again became emotional when she talked about the reaction of her family to the controversy. “Nandoon po ang pagkagulat siyempre, nagulat sila sa isyu na ibinabato sa akin. Pero alam nila kung ano ang trabaho ko sa pag-aartista at sa real estate din po,” she said.

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Nissan unveils newest all-electric vehicle

The new BMW X6. ©BMW Group

BMW reveals new X6

(Relaxnews) - The new flagship sports activity vehicle promises better performance, handling, better looks and a host of premium features as standard. The X6 is a very puzzling car. On paper, it shouldn’t work. It attempts to combine the best elements of a sportscar – sleek looks, acceleration and handling – with the most notable features of an SUV – so all-wheel-drive, elevated ride height and ground clearance. The result, something BMW calls a sports activity vehicle (SAV), is a car that is neither overly sporting, because it’s too heavy and has too high a center of gravity, or much good on anything other than tarmac, because of its stiff, sports suspension and low-profile tires. Yet the original model has been a massive hit for BMW -- 250,000 models sold and counting – and is even starting to spawn copycat models from other brands. The new second-generation model, which will be officially unveiled at the Moscow motor show this summer, is more than just a facelift. The exterior styling is more aggressive and incorporates the company’s latest design cues such as the arrowed side air inlets

for better brake cooling and more angular headlamps and a refined kidney grille. As well as upping the style, BMW is also upping the levels of equipment and trim that come as standard on the car. That means 19-inch lightweight alloys, an eight-speed paddle-shift transmission, an interior trimmed in leather rather than fabric and the full Driving Assistant safety package all at no extra cost. When the car goes on sale in December, it will do so with a choice of a V8, 450hp petrol or two straight-six diesel engines, one of which uses not one, not two but three turbochargers to deliver 381hp. But whatever engine buyers go for, it will power all of the wheels all of the time as the company’s XDrive intelligent four-wheel-drive system is offered as standard on all models for the first time. That will free up funds to delve into the X6’s options list and add a head-up display or one of the semi-autonomous systems such as traffic jam or parking assist. The car will make its real-world debut at the Moscow motor show on August 27. Prices are expected to start at €64,000.

(YOKOHAMA, Japan-AFP) – Nissan on Monday unveiled its second all-electric vehicle, the Japanese automaker’s latest push into the eco-friendly car sector despite disappointing sales. The company said its e-NV200, a zero-emission commercial van, can drive 190 kilometers (120 miles) on a full charge, and doubles as an onboard power source to supply emergency lighting or power to an outside unit. Nissan was the first in the world to sell a mass-production electric passenger vehicle, the LEAF, in 2010. The newest vehicle, which comes with either five or seven seats, is to go on sale in some European countries before its October Japan launch with prices starting at 3.88 million yen ($37,900), Nissan said. Retail prices could be lower after accounting for government subsidies on green-vehicle sales, it added. The van can be fully recharged in eight hours or to 80

Chief planning officer for Japan’s auto giant Nissan, Andy Palmer, speaks about the company’s new commercial electric vehicle “e-NV200” at the company’s headquarters in Yokohama, suburban Tokyo on June 9, 2014. Nissan will put the Spanish-made new electric vehicle, which travel 190 kms per charge, on to the Japanese market in October. ©AFP PHOTO / Yoshikazu TSUNO

percent of its battery capacity in half an hour using a separate quick-charging system. Nissan said it hoped to log monthly sales of 200 units in Japan for its electric van, a modest target after LEAF sold just 115,000 units globally since its

launch nearly four years ago. Japan’s number two automaker also has plans to release an electric vehicle for the Chinese market, but demand has been disappointing largely due to their short driving range, high prices and a lack of re-charging infrastructure.

GM faulty ignition lawsuits to be heard in New York NEW YORK, June 9, 2014 (AFP) – Dozens of lawsuits against General Motors over its faulty ignitions are to be consolidated and reviewed by a New York federal district court, a panel of judges decided Monday. The lawsuits, more than 74 so far, involve economic damages claimed by owners of the 2.6 million cars recalled for the ignition problem. Car owners say the defect, which can shut down a car’s electrical systems, including airbag deployment, has lowered the value of their cars and cost them for repairs. The judges said the Manhattan court was most familiar with GM’s recent corporate history, having overseen the company’s

2009 bankruptcy and reorganization, which could figure crucially into its liability. The reorganization arguably protects the post-bankruptcy GM from liabilities attributable to the pre-bankruptcy company. GM has already asked the Manhattan court to decide the question of whether it is protected or not, one reason the panel of judges decided on it to hear the lawsuits. In addition, they said, centralization of the cases “will eliminate duplicative discovery; prevent inconsistent pretrial rulings, including with respect to class certification; and conserve the resources of the parties, their counsel, and the judiciary.”

The consolidation does not include a number of personal damages lawsuits filed by victims and families of victims of accidents tied to the problem ignitions, which were installed in a number of models, notably the popular Chevrolet Cobalt, during 2004-2012. The suits could end up costing the automaker billions of dollars in damages, according to industry analysts. The company says it knows of 54 accidents in which airbags did not deploy, possibly due to the ignition problem, and 13 deaths. The US auto safety regulator, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, said it thinks the death toll could be higher.

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KITCHENOMICS Alaska Salmon and Chipotle Wrap

FAMILY FEATURES

ou’ve probably heard that eating seafood rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids can help protect against heart disease while delivering other important nutrients. In fact, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) recommends eating seafood twice a week for such benefits. Salmon is one fish long-heralded for its nutritional value, and Alaska canned salmon offers a convenient way to add more deliciously nourishing seafood to your diet. Whether your tastes lean toward a traditional croquette drizzled with a light dill sauce, or a refreshing take on a pesto pasta salad, canned salmon is easy to prepare and surprisingly versatile. Because canned and pouched salmon is shelf-stable, you can always have some on hand for a quick, tasty meal or flavorful snack. At the grocery store, simply look for “Alaska” on the lid or label to ensure a topquality, wholly natural product with nothing added but a pinch of salt for flavor. These recipes showcase how Alaska canned salmon can be adapted to a wide range of meals and lifestyles, from the indulgent to the über-healthy. For additional preparation tips and recipes, visit www.wildalaskaseafood. com.

Alaska Salmon Salad Sandwiches Prep time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked 1/3 cup light mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon capers, drained, chopped if large (optional) 1/3 cup finely diced celery 1/3 cup finely diced onion 1/4 cup dill or sweet pickle relish, drained Dash Tabasco sauce or pinch of black pepper 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried dill weed 8 slices whole-grain bread 24 thin slices cucumber 4 leaves green or red leaf lettuce In medium bowl, combine salad ingredients. Add salmon and stir to combine well. Divide salad among 4 slices of bread. Top each with 6 slices of cucumber and a leaf of lettuce. Top with remaining slices of bread and cut in half, crosswise. Nutrients per serving: 381 calories (36% from fat), 15 g total fat, 3 g saturated fat, 65 mg cholesterol, 27 g protein, 34 g carbohydrate, 5 g fiber, 1236 mg sodium, 291 mg calcium and 1900 mg omega-3 fatty acids

Alaska Salmon Pesto Pasta Salad Prep time: 25 minutes Servings: 8 to 10 8 ounces dry, small shell pasta 2 to 3 teaspoons garlic, finely minced 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto 1/2 cup light Italian salad dressing 1 zucchini, cut in 1/2inch half-moon slices 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved 1 small red onion, thinly sliced 3/4 cup frozen peas, defrosted 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked Salt and pepper, to taste Cook pasta according to package directions; drain well. Let cool slightly then toss with garlic, pesto and dressing. Set aside. Cook zucchini in covered microwavable container on high 2 minutes or until just tender and bright green. Toss blanched zucchini, tomatoes, onion and peas into pasta and stir to combine. Gently fold in drained salmon; season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve immediately or chill before serving. Nutrients per serving: 310 calories (46% from fat), 16 g total fat, 3 g saturated fat, 30 mg cholesterol, 17 g protein, 26 g carbohydrate, 3 g fiber, 485 mg sodium, 214 mg calcium and 1300 mg omega-3 fatty acids

Prep time: 15 minutes Servings: 4 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lime juice 1 tablespoon chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro 2 tablespoons chopped red bell pepper 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped red onion 1 teaspoon chopped garlic 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 1 can (14.75 ounces) traditional pack Alaska salmon or 2 cans or pouches (6 to 7.1 ounces

each) skinless, boneless salmon, drained and chunked 3 tablespoons light cream cheese or light sour cream 1 teaspoon adobo sauce 4 whole wheat tortillas (8-inch) 4 large lettuce or cabbage leaves, shredded In bowl, mix lime juice, chiles, cilantro, bell pepper, red onion, garlic, salt and pepper. Gently stir in salmon until blended. In small bowl, blend cream cheese and adobo sauce. Spread 1/4 mixture over each tortilla to within 1 inch of edge. Spread 2/3 cup salmon mixture over cream cheese. Top with 1/4 of lettuce and roll up burrito-style. Repeat for remaining tortillas.  For appetizers, cut each wrap into thirds (makes 12 appetizer servings).

As a meal, cut each wrap in half (makes 4 entree servings). Serve immediately. Nutrients per serving (4 entrees): 305 calories, 8.5 g total fat, 2 g saturated fat, 25% calories from fat, 88 mg cholesterol, 32.5 g protein, 26.5 g carbohydrate, 4 g fiber, 1228 mg sodium, 130.5 mg calcium and 1290 mg omega-3 fatty acids 

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OBAMA

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From page 1

A string of rows including over a scandal in delays to veterans health care and a firestorm over a Taliban prisoner swap to free US soldier Bowe Bergdahl are also bearing down on the besieged White House. On Monday, Obama poured special disdain on Republicans who oppose a Democratic plan to close tax loopholes for millionaires to provide funds for graduates to refinance outstanding student loan debt at lower rates. “You would think that if somebody like me has done really well, in part because the country’s invested in them, that they wouldn’t mind at least paying the same rate as a teacher or a nurse,” said Obama. “I want Americans to pay attention to see where their lawmakers’ priorities lie here. Lower tax bills for millionaires or lower student loan bills for the middle class. This should be a no-brainer.” The bill has little chance of making it through Congress where Republicans con-

trol the House of Representatives and can block legislation in the Democratic Senate. Invoking executive power So, Obama, as he has done repeatedly this year, invoked his executive power to take his own measures—albeit ones that pale in comparison to what Congress could do. Among his actions, Obama directed that annual student loan repayments be capped at 10 percent of a graduate’s income – to help defray a situation where young Americans with new degrees struggle financially. The White House says 71 percent of those who receive a bachelor’s degree graduate with debt averaging nearly $30,000, and many take years to pay it off. After his fiery student loan event, Obama threw off his jacket and strolled with his Chief of Staff Denis McDonough through the sticky early summer heat to a Starbucks along Pennsylvania Avenue near the White House.

PALACE From page 1

two Special Divisions” of the Sandiganbayan just for the pork barrel cases. Morales cited the “national magnitude of these cases, the complexities of the issues involved, the number of accused and the far-reaching consequences of these cases” as compelling reasons for the creation of such courts. She also cited as precedent a resolution by the high court in January

2002 to create a special division of the Sandiganbayan to try the plunder case against ousted President Joseph Estrada. “That is a matter that will be left to the decision of the Supreme Court. Hopefully whatever their decision may be, it will help in making sure the trial or proceedings are conducted in a timely manner na walang masyadong delay,” Valte said.

BLATCHE From page 1

himself to his hosts with his enthusiasm. “I am very excited to play for the Philippines, and I thank everyone for making this once in a lifetime chance happen,” Blatche told AFP Monday as he met with members of the Philippine Senate, which last month passed a law that would grant him Filipino citizenship. “I am Filipino now, so I will do my best to help my team.” Philippine President Benigno Aquino still needs to endorse the law, but national coach Chot Reyes said this would likely happen before the June 30 FIBA deadline to submit the final list of players for the

World Cup in Spain. Reyes said Blatche – who averaged 11.2 points and 5.3 rebounds a game this season for the Nets – would be vital in helping the Asian minnows be at least competitive at the world championships. “He will give inside presence with his size and he has that special skill set peculiar to a big guy – he has outside shooting ability and can put the ball on the floor,” Reyes said, but emphasized the American could not perform miracles. “Our chances are slim to none, that’s as honest as I can make it, but we will be fighting with all our hearts,” Reyes said.

SUPREME COURT From page 1

the CSPA. The brief highlighted examples of real families, many of them Asian American, that are separated because of a child’s aging out. Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los

Angeles is the nation’s largest legal organization serving Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders through direct legal services, impact litigation, policy advocacy and leadership development.

enough evidence to support conviction and we continue to strengthen the evidence,” she told AFP. The evidence included testimony from whistleblowers involved in the alleged corruption and documents from government agencies showing that funds were syphoned off, she added. A special anti-graft court, the Sandiganbayan, on Friday indicted senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Ramon “Bong” Revilla and Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada on the non-bailable charge of plunder, or massive graft. If convicted, the three could face life in prison. Enrile, 90, has outlasted four previous presidents and was chief enforcer of martial law under Marcos in the 1970s. Estrada, 51, is the son of former president and movie star Joseph Estrada while Revilla, 47, is a

showbiz star as well as the son of another movie star-turned-senator. ‘Pork barrel’ funds De Lima said the executive branch was awaiting word from the court on when to arrest the three, adding that this could come within two weeks. She denied there were political overtones in the case, saying the evidence simply pointed to the trio. Five of their staffers and a businesswoman, Janet Lim-Napoles, who allegedly masterminded the scam were also indicted. The three senators with the help of their aides and Napoles are alleged to have allocated millions of dollars from their official “pork barrel” funds to bogus non-government organizations which then gave them huge kickbacks.

RECLAMATION From page 1

spotted in the South China Sea, possibly carrying land reclamation equipment. The two reefs are within the Spratly Islands region, a disputed archipelago of reefs, islands and atolls in the South China Sea that is coveted by the Philippines, Vietnam, China, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan. Photographs allegedly taken by the Philippine military showing Chinese ships engaged in land reclamation off a reef, were published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer, a major Manila daily on Saturday. However an armed forces spokesman could not confirm if the photos were genuine. Last month, the Philippines publicly accused Beijing of large-scale reclamation activity at another location within the Spratlys, the Chinese-

held Johnson South Reef. Manila, which also claims the reef, said the reclamation work could lead to China building its first airstrip in the disputed region. Johnson South Reef lies about 300 kilometers from the large Philippine island of Palawan and is considerably further away from the Chinese coastline. The Philippines filed a diplomatic protest against China’s reclamation works on the reef but Beijing rejected it on grounds the reef is part of Chinese territory. Tensions have risen over China’s claim to most of the South China Sea with the Philippines and Vietnam being the most vocal in recent years in accusing China of using bullying tactics to enforce its claim.

S. KOREA From page 1

would include the ship’s weapons systems. South Korean Defense Minister Kim Kwang-jin informed his Filipino counterpart Voltaire Gazmin of the donation during his visit to Seoul on May 30, the statement added. The gift follows South Korea’s recent donation of a landing craft and 16 rubber boats to the Philippines, it added. “South Korea’s gesture is a small token compared with the great contribution of Filipino troops during the Korean War,” the South Korean minister was quoted as saying. Officials at the Manila’s foreign ministry and the South Korean embassy could not be contacted for comment.

The donation comes as the Philippines is facing increasing pressure from China over their conflicting claims to the South China Sea. China claims most of South China Sea even up to the coasts of its neighbors and the Philippines has increasingly accused its larger neighbor of using bullying tactics to enforce its claim. The Philippines, which has one of the most poorly-armed militaries in the region, has been upgrading its defense capabilities in recent years. It has also been improving its defense relations with South Korea and in March, it signed an agreement to buy 12 South Korean-made FA-50 jets for about $421.12 million.

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