US Asian Post September 16, 2015 by Balita Media Inc

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Vol. 4. No. 51

LOS ANGELES

A Balita Media Publication

Wednesday - Tuesday, September 16 - 22, 2015

IMF: Outlook for PHL economy remains favorable WASHINGTON, D.C. – “The outlook for the Philippine economy remains favorable despite uneven and generally weaker global growth prospects,” the International Monetary Fund (IMF) stated in a press release after the conclusion of the 2015 Article IV Consultation between the Philippines and the IMF on 26 August. The IMF’s Title IV Staff Report noted the Philippines’ continued strong economic growth, which is in line with the economy’s potential growth of 6.5%. The IMF’s Executive Directors, agreeing with the appraisal of the IMF staff report, commended “the Philippine authorities’ prudent macroeconomic management,” which has helped contribute to strong economic growth and for having “set the stage for favorable growth prospects despite external headwinds.” Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. expressed appreciation for the effort of the IMF staff and the assessment of the Executive Board. “Our economic performance

can be credited to the good governance model of President Benigno S. Aquino III under the Daang Matuwid or the ‘Straight Path,’ as well as the sound macroeconomic management implemented by Philippine economic managers,” the Ambassador said. The following are the notable findings in the Staff Report: IMF recognized that internal revenue increased as a share of GDP due to improvements in the Philippines’ tax administration. The Philippines’ economic growth is expected to pick up slightly in 2015 to 6.2% as lower commodity prices lift household consumption and improved budget execution raises public spending. The IMF added that over the medium term, the country’s economic growth is projected at 6.5%, which is in line with the Philippines’ potential growth. Public and private investments are projected to lead economic growth, with public infrastructure spending and expansion of PPP projects See PHL ECONOMY, page 2

Youth activists burn a mock U.S. flag during a protest in front of the U.S. Embassy in Manila on Friday, denouncing the upcoming Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meeting. The APEC meeting, which will be attended by 21 world leaders, will be hosted by the Philippines in November. (MNS photo)

Former traffic czar: I can solve traffic mess in a month MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) – “Isang buwan lang.” Former traffic czar Romeo Maganto on Saturday said he can solve the worsening traffic situation on EDSA and other roads in Metro Manila within a month. Maganto, a retired police general, was appointed traffic czar during the Ramos administration. He said he can ease the plight of motorists and commuters, who have been complaining of congested roads and inefficient transport systems.

That is, he said, if he is appointed traffic manager by Malacañang. “Ito’y medyo may konting kayabangan pero kaya ko namang gawin eh... Kung may magagawa tayo sa ating mga kababayan at nakikita nating makakaya naman natin, why not do it?” Maganto said. “I am challenging Malacañang, assign me as your traffic manager... I will solve the traffic problem within a month’s time. Isang buwan lang. Pag hindi ko nagawa

I will resign the following day.” Maganto managed the traffic during the construction of the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) along EDSA in 1995 as well as during the papal visit of Saint Pope John Paul II that same year. He was also the first to implement the color coding traffic scheme. Since Monday, traffic management duties on EDSA have been handled by the Philippine National Police - Highway Patrol Group See TRAFFIC MESS, page 2

Bills to lower traffic fines, protect water

Vice President Jejomar Binay files separate libel complaints against Senator Antonio Trillanes and former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado before the Makati Regional Trial Court on Thursday. The raps pertain to claims made by Trillanes and Mercado in connection with city’s Senior Citizens program and a Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) deal with Alphaland. (MNS photo)

Binay denies hand in spread of fake money bearing Mar’s face MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – Vice President Jejomar Binay on Friday denied having anything to do with the fake P500 bills bearing the face of his rival, outgoing Interior Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II that were sent to some journalists this week. “Huwag mo namang ituro sa akin ‘yan. Ikaw naman. Susmaryosep (Don’t blame me. My goodness)!” Binay said in an interview in Manila. The Vice President admitted though that the text printed at the back of the fake money: “Salapi pa more! Ibulsa ang pera, iboto ang kursonada (More cash! Keep the money, but vote for your preferred candidate)” was the same line that he uttered in the past.

SACRAMENTO, September 11, 2015 – Reducing traffic fines, protecting water supplies and providing incentives for attorneys to perform legal help for working residents are among the proposals by Sen. Bob Hertzberg that await final action by Gov. Jerry Brown. “It has been an honor to fight for measures to improve the quality of life for Californians and the nearly 1 million constituents of my east San Fernando ValSee TRAFFIC FINES, page 2

Tagle issues ‘oratio imperata’ against El Niño

“Nakapagbitaw ako ng salita na lagi ko namang sinasabi ‘yon tuwing halalan. Mayor pa ako, sinasabi ko na, kasi ‘yong kalaban namin noon, talagang ang pinagmamalaki at inaasahan niyang mananalo siya dahil sa pera so naging byword namin sa Makati ‘yan,” he explained. (I have been saying that every election. Ever since I was a mayor, I would utter those words already because my opponent then was confident that he would win because of money, so it became our byword in Makati.) “E ngayon, mukhang gano’n na naman ang mangyayari kaya nakakapag-ulit ako nang sinasabi ko. Pero huwag mo akong ididikit

MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) – Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle has issued an oratio imperata or obligatory against the El Niño phenomenon. “Let us pray together and storm heavens with our supplications, that God’s mercy be upon us and avert the disaster that a prolonged and intense El Niño threatens us,” he said in Circular No. 2015-42 dated September 4, 2015. The order was addressed to all clergy, superiors of religious communities (men and women), and head of secular institutes in the Archdiocese of Manila. Tagle issued the oratio imperata after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astro-

See FAKE MONEY, page 2

See IMPERATA, page 2

High school students from Araullo High School wade through knee-deep flood at the corner of Taft Ave. and United Nations Ave. in Manila due to a sudden downpour caused by thunderstorm, on Thursday afternoon. The government faces criticism for its failure to address the flooding and traffic problem in Metro Manila. (MNS photo)

HPG downplays ‘conflict’ with MMDA MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) – The Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (HPG) explained the absence of Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) traffic enforcers along certain parts of EDSA. PNP-HPG chief Arnold Gunnacao said MMDA officer-in-charge Rey Arada has been cooperative in breaking down personnel deployment, but was not able to assign traffic constables on major choke points due to a misunderstanding that the HPG teams are to hold these areas alone. “Very cooperative si Ginoong Rey Arada kaya lang wala pong available na tao noong hinihingan ko para sa choke points. At

sabi nga, doon sa choke points, ang pagkaintindi ay Highway Patrol lang ang dapat na nandoon so hindi po nilagyan ng MMDA,” Gunnacao said. The HPG started heading traffic control along EDSA last Monday, giving motorists a glimpse of smoothly-flowing traffic. A sudden downpour, however, struck Metro Manila the following night, leaving thousands of commuters stranded in nightmarish traffic until the wee hours of morning. The MMDA’s schedule is limited until 10 p.m., which left the the HPG to solely resolve the congestion along EDSA. Gunnacao comSee HPG DOWNPLAYS, page 2

SET drops residency issue, to focus on Poe’s citizenship MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – The oral argument regarding the disqualification case against Sen. Grace Poe will focus on the issue on whether she is a natural-born Filipino. On Friday, Poe’s lawyer, Alexander Poblador, told reporters that Senate Electoral Tribunal chairman Associate Justice Antonio Carpio himself suggested that the residency issue be dropped as it was deemed a “non-issue.” Half an hour was all that was needed for the SET to discuss how to go about with the scheduled oral argument on September 21 regarding the disqualification case filed by Rizalito David, a defeated senatorial bet in the 2013 polls. After emerging from the conference, Poe said she attended the meeting to defend herself against David’s accusations that she is not a natural-born Filipino. Her camp later issued a statement quoting Poe’s lawyer, Alexander Poblador, as saying that the complaint was a ploy to prevent the senator from seeking a higher post in 2016. Poe, however, has yet to categorically state her political plans for 2016. Before the start of the preliminary conference, David insisted he did not commit any forum shopping when he filed the cases against the lawmaker before the SET and the Comelec. Senators who attended the preliminary conference were SET See POE CITIZENSHIP, page 2

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Wednesday - Tuesday, September 16 - 22, 2015

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Basilan court declares Abu Sayyaf a terrorist group MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – The Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) is now officially recognized as a terrorist group under the Human Security Act of 2007. This was after Judge Danilo Bucoy of the Regional Trial Court Branch 9 in Isabela City, Basilan granted a request from the Department of Justice to declare the armed group as a terrorist and outlawed organization. In a 19-page resolution, a copy of which the Department of Justice released to the media on Friday, the Basilan court took into consideration the “essential elements” to declare someone or a group as a terrorist under RA 9370 or the Human Security Act of 2007. The court said the preamble of the ASG’s Charter showed that the group is “resolute and determined to use whatever means, including terrorism, if only to achieve its purpose, that is, to supplant the existing form of government with their own version of an Islamic State.” The court said though the word “terrorism” is not stated in the preamble, its concept and essence were “all over it and are, therefore, deemed written into it.” The court also gave weight to documents and testimonies from four witnesses that showed the

ASG used acts to terrorize and sow a condition of widespread and extraordinary fear and panic among the populace. “These witnesses have passed the court’s careful and intense scrutiny regarding their demeanor, attitude and mannerism on the witness stand. The court find them credible,” said the court. “In fact, these witnesses deserve praise and commendation for their courage and audacity to stand against this violent, treacherous and vicious organization,” it added. The court said the ASG was also guilty of coercing the government to comply with their unlawful demands or else they would kill their victims. Among these demands are ransom or the pull out of troops from areas of ASG’s operations. The court also acknowledged that the ASG was given due notice and opportunity to be heard but no written or oral opposition was submitted by the group to the court. “Wherefore, in view of all the foregoing... and after due notice and hearing, the organizations commonly known as the Abu Sayyaf Group and/or Al-Harakatul Al-Islamiyya is hereby declared a terrorist organization,” ruled the court.(MNS)

TRAFFIC FINES

• SB 272 – Local Government Data – Local governments would be required to create an inventory of their key data-keeping systems, make that catalog publicly available online and list the types of data collected by those systems. Cybersecurity systems and infrastructure-control systems would be exempted. • SB 664 – Earthquake Preparedness for Water Infrastructure – This bill would require regional water-management officials to assess the vulnerability of their water systems to an earthquake and to publicly report that assessment as well as any mitigation plans. SB 621 – Mental Health and Public Safety – This proposal would clarify that counties can apply for Mentally Ill Offender Crime Reduction Grant funds to pay for diversion programs that reduce recidivism of certain mentally ill offenders.

From page 1

ley district,” Hertzberg said. “It’s comforting to know workers will find it easier to deal with traffic fines, that our drinking water supplies will be better prepared in an earthquake, and that those who need help most will be able to receive inexpensive legal aid – if Gov. Brown signs my bills now on his desk.” Below are bills the Van Nuys Democrat hopes will receive the governor’s support before his Oct. 11 deadline to sign, veto or allow bills to become law without his signature: • SB 405 – Driving Down Debt Citing the loss of the ability to drive as a threat to economic security – especially among working residents – this plan would improve court access by eliminating the requirement that all fines and penalties be paid before the driver can get a court hearing.

From page 1

members Loren Legarda, Pia Cayetano, Bam Aquino, Cynthia Villar and Sen. Nancy Binay. Apart from the six senators, also comprising the SET are Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio and Associate Justices Teresita Leonardo-Carpio, and

Palace: No report yet of Filipinos hurt in Mecca crane accident MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Saturday said that the Philippine consulate office in Jeddah has yet to receive reports of Filipinos injured in the crane accident in the city of Mecca, where more than 100 people were killed and 238 others injured. “Wala naman pong report so far pa ng mga Pilipinong nadamay o nasaktan doon sa naging aksidente nga sa Mecca,” Deputy Presidential Spokeqsperson Abigail Valte said in an interview on

Arturo Brion. For her part, Binay assured the public that she would be fair in deciding on Poe’s case even if her fellow lawmaker is a possible rival of her father Vice President Jejomar Binay in the 2016 presidential elections. (MNS)

state-run radio dzRB before noon Saturday. Valte said that the Philippine consulate office in Jeddah continues to monitor developments on the crqane accident at a Grand Mosque in Mecca. A Reuters report said at least 107 people were killed when the crane toppled over the Grance Mosque on Friday. “All those who were wounded and the dead have been taken to hospital. There are no casualties left at the location,” General Su-

leiman al-Amr, director general of the Civil Defense Authority, told al-Ikhbariya television. Strong wind and rains had uprooted trees and rocked cranes in the area, he said. A statement by a spokesman for the administration of the mosques in Mecca and Medina said the crane smashed into the part of the Grand Mosque where worshipers circle the Kaaba - the black-clad cube towards which the world’s 1.6 billion Muslims face to pray. (MNS)

Palace unaware of DTI chief Domingo’s resignation plan – Valte MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) – A Palace official on Saturday said that Malacañang has not received any information that Trade and Industry Secretary Gregory Domingo will be quitting his post next month – as reported earlier. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte, in an interview on state-run dzRB, also said that she is not aware of the supposed plan of Secretary Domingo. “I saw Secretary Domingo a few weeks ago and he did not … wala naman po siyang nabanggit na ganyan. [Also], I have not been informed of any resignation of any of our Cabinet members,” Valte said. Citing “informed sources,” a report on the Philippine Star said

IMPERATA From page 1

nomical Services Administration (PAGASA), forecast that the El Niño phenomenon that is hitting the country will intensify to a new record high. “This means prolonged drought in about 46 provinces in our country causing damage to agriculture lands and critical water supply for human consumption. This impending situation brings us to the brink of helplessness, but not hopelessness, as we turn to God our Father, to turn His mercy on us and shorten the life of El Niño and bring down the rain to avert the crisis,” the Cardinal said. He added: “In praying to Him for His compassion and benevo-

FAKE MONEY From page 1

POE CITIZENSHIP

THE US ASIAN POST

do’n sa [‘fake money’].” (It looks like the same thing will happen now, so I have been uttering those words again. But don’t blame me for it.) “Alam mo, ‘yon ay ginagawa nila para ituro sa akin. Sabagay, wala namang masama. Totoo namang kailangan ‘yon para hindi naman ho nakakahiya sa nagbibigay,” he further said. (They are doing that and putting the blame on me. I guess there is nothing wrong (when you accept the money and still vote for your preferred candidate) so as not to embarrass the one giving it.)

ECONOMY From page 1

crowding in private investments. IMF added that despite a favorable outlook, factors such as global financial volatility, weak budget execution, and weatherrelated conditions tilt risks toward the downside. However, the IMF noted that Philippine authorities are well equipped to respond as needed with suitable policies should any of these risk scenarios materialize, particularly given the strong fundamentals, ample policy space, and strong

Domingo is leaving the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) because he “feels burned out.” However, Valte said she will “make some inquiries” about the matter, especially because the secretary has a big role in the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera-

HPG DOWNPLAYS From page 1

plained of insufficient reinforcements from the traffic constables. Gunnacao said the MMDA has started to deploy 190 personnel on the identified choke points today but they still need additional manpower to manage the country’s busiest thoroughfare. The HPG chief has already aplence, we also seek His forgiveness for our ecological sins – our neglect and abuse of the environment, our ‘throw-away’ culture, and our failures as stewards of His creation.” The Oratio Imperata Ad Petendam Pluviam is to be prayed kneeling down after Communion before the Post Communion Prayer. They started the prayer on September 6, 2015. Below is full text of the oratio imperata issued by Tagle: God our loving Father, Maker of all Creation, look kindly on us Your Children in this Earth You have given us as our home, as we plead You to shorten the life of El Niño now threatening our country with prolonged drought, extreme weather, and low water supply. Binay then reiterated his advice to voters to accept money that will be offered by vote buyers but they should still elect their preferred candidates. Asked if the fake money was the handiwork of his political opponents, the Vice President simply said: “You have to expect more.” “Lalong sumama at lalong dumumi ang pulitika (Politics is becoming more vile and dirtier),” Binay added. Roxas earlier pointed to his detractors as the ones behind the fake money as he urged the Philippine National Police and the National Bureau of Investigation to look into it. (MNS) foreign reserve position. “As our country continues to reach new heights in political and economic affairs, the Philippine government remains committed to enhancing inclusive growth,” Ambassador Cuisia emphasized. He specifically cited the government’s continued commitment to rollout reforms to improve revenue collection efficiency. Also highlighted in the Staff Report is the Philippine Government’s augmentation of growthinclusive budgetary expenditures. These programs include the Department of Social Welfare and

tion-Leaders’ Summit in Manila. “Malaki talaga ang papel ng DTI pagdating doon sa mga substantive meetings [ng APEC leaders],” Valte said. President Benigno Aquino III appointed Domingo as DTI secretary on June 30, 2010.

pealed to other PNP units to assign the personnel that they could spare to EDSA. The Special Action Force (SAF) sent in 20 members, which have already undergone seminars on traffic management yesterday. HPG will conduct an assessment meeting with other concerned agencies tomorrow. (MNS) O merciful God forgive us our ecological sins that have contributed to this adverse phenomenon; Forgive our indifference to the groans and suffering of Mother Earth; Forgive us our wastefulness, our disregard for the value of the gifts of creation You have given us. We promise to repent for our sins by following the Gospel of Creation, and by caring for and being mindful of your Creation in all that we do. Give us the strength and wisdom to be good stewards of your creation and to protect the environment from abuse and exploitation. At this time of impending crisis move us, dear Lord, to share more, serve more and love more. Loving God, Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, you entrusted the Filipino people to the special care of Mary our Mother, listen to the prayers, we bring up to you through her, and grant us our petitions through our Lord Jesus Christ who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, One God for ever and ever. Amen.

TRAFFIC MESS From page 1

(PNP-HPG). The HPG continues to be supported by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), as well as the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB). (MNS) Development’s conditional cash transfer program, the expansion of the Philippines’ education program from Kindergarten to the Grade 12 level, and expansion of the health insurance program to cover the poor and informal sectors. Under Article IV of the IMF’s Articles of Agreement, the IMF holds annual bilateral discussions with member governments to assess each country’s economic health and determine any potential financial concerns. The Philippines’ Country Report and Article IV Consultation Press Release can be accessed here.

THE US ASIAN POST Wednesday - Tuesday, September 16 - 22, 2015

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Chiz to NTC: Come up with new guidelines for acceptable internet speed, cost Instead of merely testing Internet speeds, the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC) should conduct an audit to assess the coverage and quality of service of telecommunications companies (telcos) to pressure them into making Internet access faster and cheaper, Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero said. Escudero made the call as the NTC prepares to carry out a speed test this month to determine if telcos are true to their advertised Internet speed. “An audit is necessary to determine the gravity of the problem of slow Internet connection in the country. This will become the basis for NTC to come up with new guidelines on acceptable speed and cost that telcos are duty-bound to follow,” Escudero said. The new guidelines should effectively compel the telcos to invest in infrastructure and technologies development so they can deliver faster data connection to their subscribers. Escudero said the problem of pathetic Internet speed and service in the Philippines could be easily addressed if telcos are forced by law to set aside a portion of their huge revenues for better network infrastructure. Citing an NTC study, one of the biggest telcos in the Philippines said $16.6 billion, or around P750 billion, is needed to bring 2 megabits per second download speeds to 80 percent of Philippine households by 2016. “The telcos have been reaping billions of pesos in profits at the expense of their subscribers, who continue to complain about the slow and expensive data services they provide,” Escudero pointed out. “I think it is more than fair and reasonable to compel telcos to spend on the necessary infrastructure expansions and upgrades that will allow them to provide some real service to individuals

and industries that need reliable data connections,” he said. Escudero said the NTC, as the agency that regulates and supervises the telecommunications sector, should make sure that the data experience meets the requirements and expectations of the country’s Internet users, who are now close to 40 million. “If we want to sustain the growth momentum of the economy, particularly the BPO industry, we need to have the infrastructures to deliver reliable and high-quality Internet services,” the senator said. In a recent Senate hearing, NTC officials announced that the commission will begin monitoring this September the Internet speed being provided by telcos and compare these with their advertised speed. According to NTC officials, the move was part of government efforts to address the problem of slow Internet in the country. “Internet speed monitoring, at best, can only be a measure against deceptive or misleading advertising, but it would not result in faster and cheaper Internet,” Escudero said. “When the NTC confirms what millions of subscribers have been saying, what then? This is why they need to go further and find ways to force telcos to address the problem by building better network infrastructures,” the senator said. The latest household download index report by global Internet provider Ookla ranked the Philippines 21st out of 22 countries in Asia in terms of Internet speed, trailed only by Afghanistan. It has a household download speed of 3.64 Megabits per second (Mbps); topranked Singapore has a broadband speed of 122.43 Mbps and Hong Kong clocked in with 102.96 Mbps. Even with such poor service, the Philippines is tagged as having one of the most expensive Internet services in the world.

Palace shrugs off VP Binay’s proposal to remove PNP from DILG supervision MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Friday brushed aside Vice President Jejomar Binay s proposal to remove the Philippine National Police (PNP) under the supervision of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said Binay’s suggestion was an “obvious” attack on outgoing DILG Secretary Manuel “Mar” Roxas II, the presumptive standard bearer of the ruling Liberal Party (LP) in next year’s presidential election. “It is quite obvious that this suggestion from the Vice President is made as a not-so-veiled attack on Secretary Roxas and not really to improve governance and performance of the institution,” Valte said in a text message. Binay and Roxas are set to face off in a political rematch in the 2016 national elections, with Binay gunning for the presiden-

tial post under the opposition party United Nationalist Alliance (UNA). Binay proposed that the PNP should be under the direct control of the Office of the President, saying the DILG chief already has a lot on his plate. Roxas has already resigned from his post and is set to turnover the DILG command to incoming secretary, former Western Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento, also of LP, on Friday afternoon. Valte further said that data from the anti-crime campaign of the PNP would disprove Binay’s assumptions. “The data [on] the implementation of Oplan Lambat Sibat in NCR (National Capital Region) and in other pilot areas contradict the assumptions of the Vice President. Equipment upgrades for the PNP and the BFP (Bureau of Fire Protection) happened while under the supervision of the DILG,” she added. (MNS)

Pretrial of Enrile’s plunder case deferred anew MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – For the second time, the Sandiganbayan has deferred the pretrial of the plunder case of Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile as well as his co-accused Jessica Lucila “Gigi” Reyes and Janet Lim-Napoles in connection with their alleged involvement in the pork barrel scam. At the scheduled pretrial proceedings on Friday, Presiding Justice Amparo Cabotaje-Tang, who heads the Third Division, announced that “the court resolves to grant” Enrile’s motion to cancel the pretrial filed last week. The Third Division sided with Enrile’s argument that the trial of his case must not proceed yet pending the Supreme Court’s final resolution on his motion for bill of particulars. In a ruling last month, the SC granted the motion for bill of particulars filed by Enrile last year and directed the Office of the Ombudsman to provide additional details on the plunder case that the senator has sought in his motion. The Office of the Ombudsman, however, filed last week a motion for reconsideration, asking the high court to reverse its ruling. “Masaya kami at in-expect naman talaga namin na igra-grant ‘yung aming motion [to cancel pretrial] dahil ‘yun ang logical consequence because of the decision ng Supreme Court, na kailangang ibigay ng prosecution ‘yung mga specific detail [ng case] na hinihingi namin,” Enrile’s lawyer, Joseph Sagandoy, told reporters

after the cancelled proceedings. “Ang position namin is we cannot proceed with the trial kung wala ang mga detail na ‘yun,” he added. Among the details that Enrile wanted to be included in the information of the case were the names of the specific people who delivered and received the P172.8million alleged kickbacks that he allegedly amassed from the pork barrel scam, as well as the dates and places where the kickbacks were supposedly delivered. Enrile also wanted the Ombudsman to specify the names of the individuals with whom he allegedly conspired. The Third Division, meanwhile, has denied Enrile’s motion to cancel pre-trial filed by the camp of Reyes, Enrile’s former chief of staff. In her motion, Reyes, through her lawyer Anacleto Diaz, said the pretrial of her case must also not proceed pending the resolution of Enrile’s motion for bill of particulars. Diaz argued that since Reyes is a co-accused of Enrile, the supposed vagueness of the case information as pointed out by the senator in his motion before the SC, also directly affects the case of his client. Napoles’ lawyer, Stephen David, expressed the same view. “Your honor, one of the elements of plunder is conspiracy. The act of one is the act of all. If the acts allegedly committed are vague how can we proceed with the trial?” David asked.

President Benigno S. Aquino III poses for a selfie during the 23rd Pacific Economic Cooperation Council General Meeting (PECC XXIII) at the Luzon Ballroom of the Hotel Sofitel Philippine Plaza Manila in CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City on Friday (September 11, 2015). With the theme: “Growth Engines for the 21st Century: Balanced, Inclusive, and Sustainable Growth”. Founded in 1980, PECC is a regional organization that has been in the forefront of understanding and examining the forces transforming the regional economy. (MNS photo)

DOST: Free Wi-Fi all over PHL by year-end MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) – The government is confident that people outside Metro Manila can soon enjoy free internet access. Science and Technology Secretary Mario Montejo said that the installation of public Wi-Fi in Dagupan, Tuguegarao, Mabalacat, Batangas, Legazpi, Puerto Princesa, Ilo-ilo, Cebu, Calbay-

og, Tacloban, Zamboanga, Pagadian, Davao and Cagayan de Oro will likely be completed within the year. “We are very, very hopeful. It’s on track. The program is almost on track. That before the end of the year, free Wi-Fi would be in public places all over the Philippines,” Montejo said. He added that the public W-Fi

project aims to benefit Filipinos from the countryside by exposing them to numerous employment opportunities online. However, Montejo admitted that the government is still working on increasing the domestic internet’s bandwidth which can match the internet speed of neighboring countries. (MNS)

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Senators to MILF: Don’t threaten Congress MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – At least three senators on Friday warned the Moro Islamic Liberation Front against threatening Congress on what the armed group will do once it fails to get the Bangsamoro Basic Law passed in the form it prefers. “Threatening Congress might be counter-productive and they stand to lose friendly forces who also want peace in Mindanao,” Senator Juan Edgardo Angara said. Angara was reacting to a statement on Thursday quoting the MILF as saying that the decommissioning of its armed forces will not push through if Congress passes a watered-down version of the BBL. “For sure, the MILF will reject it outright, and worse, the various aspects of the normalization process including decommissioning of its weapons and combatants will come to a halt. Likewise, we do not know if the various mechanisms including the international bodies will continue to stay,” the group said. For his part, Senator Ralph Recto said threats from the MILF will not help their case in anyway. “My advice to them: Do not threaten Congress,” Recto said in a text message. He said that the BBL must be constitutional and Congress must clearly define the powers and resources the national government is willing to give the regional government. “I am in favor of giving more power and resources to them,” he said. He added there should be no interference between the relationship of the regional government and local government units in the region. “Respect local autonomy of local government in the area,” he said. Further, Recto said there must be fair elections in the region without guns, goons, and gold. Senator Sergio Osmeña, meanwhile, said the halt on the decomissioning would mean that the war will continue. Let us cross that bridge when we get to it. The BBL, the embodiment of the peace agreement between the government and MILF, is now undergoing plenary deliberations both in the Senate and House of Representatives. At least 14 senators have expressed readiness to interpellate. Among those who have already finished their interpellations were Senators Pia Cayetano, Bam, Aquino, and Aquilino Pimentel III. Senator Ferdinand Marcos Jr. earlier said it would take up to six weeks for Senate to wrap up its plenary discussions on the substitute bill Basic Law for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (BLBAR), three weeks for interpellation and another three weeks for amendments. In the process, changes, revisions, or deletions in the bill will be proposed as committee amendments by the Committee on Local Government, through Marcos being its chairman, and any senator as individual amendments. (MNS)

Pinoys to demand for accountability, inclusive growth beyond 2016: Aquino MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – As an offshoot of his six-year stint at Malacañang, President Benigno Aquino III on Friday said that Filipinos will continue to demand for good governance and inclusive growth even after he steps down in 2016. “We see today a people who have felt the effects of good governance – and who will refuse to accept anything less,” Aquino told participants during the 23rd Pacific Economic Cooperation Council (PECC) general meeting at the Sofitel Plaza in Pasay City. “My countrymen will continue to demand integrity, accountability, and sustainable, inclusive growth even after I have stepped down from office. They will demand the continuity of the successes we have reaped,” the President added. Aquino said his administration’s strategy was to invest in the Filipino people through improved social services and infrastructure. He cited the anti-poverty measure conditional cash transfer (CCT) program, which provides cash assistance to poor households. This year, some 4.4 million households are listed as beneficiaries. Aquino also noted the K-12 program, and the training courses offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as strategies to “empower them to take advantage of opportunities that arise.” “After all, any growth in the economy that is not inclusive will likely not be sustainable. Should government fail to realize this, and consequently fail to build the capacities of their people, then they would only help to widen the social and economic divide between their citizens,” Aquino said. He cited the government’s initiatives to improve the state of infrastructure in the country, including transportation systems like airports and railways. “This will not only ensure that the Philippines becomes more competitive, but that the benefits of trade, investment, and growth are able to reach even the most far-flung communities of the Philippines,” he said. The PECC general meeting was attended by business, government and civil society leaders from the Asia-Pacific region. (MNS)

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Aquino also noted the K-12 program, and the training courses offered by the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) as strategies to “empower them to take advantage of opportunities that arise.” “After all, any growth in the economy that is not inclusive will likely not be sustainable. Should government fail to realize this, and consequently fail to build the capacities of their people, then they would only help to widen the social and economic divide between their citizens,” Aquino said. He cited the government’s initiatives to improve the state of infrastructure in the country, including transportation systems like airports and railways. “This will not only ensure that the Philippines becomes more competitive, but that the benefits of trade, investment, and growth are able to reach even the most far-flung communities of the Philippines,” he said. The PECC general meeting was attended by business, government and civil society leaders from the Asia-Pacific region. (MNS)

Poe camp insists disqualification case a ploy to prevent her from running MANILA, Sept 11 (Mabuhay) – The camp of Senator Grace Poe said Friday the disqualification case filed against the lawmaker was a mere ploy to prevent her from seeking higher office in 2016. In a statement, lawyer Alexander Poblador, Poe’s counsel, said the case filed by defeated 2013 senatorial candidate Rizalito David was directed not so much as to her election to the Senate but on the possibility of her seeking higher office in next year’s polls. Poe, however, has yet to categorically state her political plans for 2016. “The petition has more to do with what will happen in 2016 rather than her current seat in the Senate,” said Poblador, who accompanied Poe during the preliminary conference on the quo warranto petition before the Senate Electoral Tribunal (SET). He said they have sufficient evidence to prove that Poe met the citizenship and residency requirements for congressional candidates when she ran and won in the 2013 midterm elections. The lawyer said the disqualification case ought to be dismissed for late filing and forum shopping, noting that a similar case was also filed by David with the Commission on Elections recently. He said under the SET rules, a petition must be filed within 10 days after proclamation. “Since Senator Poe was proclaimed on May 16, 2013, those who would want to question her qualifications had only until May 26, 2013 to file a petition against her,” he said. “Our answer to the David petition contains grounds for summary dismissal. It’s been two years since Senator Poe assumed office and yet it is only now that the case is being filed,” he added. Disqualification cases at SET, Comelec Earlier in the day, the SET dropped the residen-

cy issue and deemed that they focus on Poe’s citizenship. The quo warranto complaint was filed by David, who placed 50th among 61 candidates in the 2013 senatorial race. David had claimed that Poe filed a certificate of candidacy in 2013 even when she isn’t a natural born Filipino citizen, that she declared that she has been residing in the Philippines for six months and six years at the time, and that she was ineligible to run because her COC was questionable. David also filed a similar complaint with the Comelec, citing the same grounds he mentioned in his SET complaint. But Poblador maintained that in the absence of contrary proof, a foundling like Poe is presumed to be Filipino. He said the 1987 Constitution, international law, and domestic laws all favor protecting foundlings. “The presumption is that Senator Poe is a naturalborn Filipino and the one who alleges the contrary must prove that she is not,” the lawyer said. He further said Poe regained her original status as natural-born Filipino, as if she never lost it, after she took new oath of allegiance to the Philippines in 2006. “The status she reacquired when she repatriated was her status from birth, which is natural-born Filipino,” Poblador said. Poe returned to the country after the death in 2004 of her father, movie actor Fernando Poe Jr. Poblador said among Poe’s acts that showed she intended to return and remain in the Philippines for good were her return to the country in the first half of 2005; enrolling her children in local schools in June 2005; purchasing a property in late 2005; construction of her family home in Quezon City in early 2006; and sale of their Virginia home in 2006. (MNS)

LETTER TO EDITOR:

‘Intrigued’ by that love for Tagalog language I was intrigued by one of your front page headlines, “Keeping the Love (for Tagalog) Alive,” on your September 5-11, 2015 issue. I was fascinated by the enthusiasm and seemingly obsession of Mr. Abner Galino in promoting Tagalog for our US-born or US citizen children to speak Tagalog. Strangely though, we can’t even decide or explain if we are Filipino or Pilipino. Why is it acceptable to interchange F and P although there is no F in our Pilipino alphabet. However, it’s nice and sort of even fun and tickled one’s appreciation to hear kids speaking Pilipino – er, Tagalog and more so from a Caucasian but that’s just about all it should be. Regardless of what dialect, language or citizenship we prefer, our physical features and brownish tan shade reminds us daily of our ethnicity by our ever-present mirror. I agree that being bilingual is a plus “for employment but more often than not, it’s Spanish not Tagalog that employers are seeking especially in California. Today, Tagalog, our national language, is being abused and mangled in the Philippines by no other than the elite class. Here’s a classic example from a Phil senatorial candidate loser, Mr. Rizalino David talking to reporters about his complaint, “Pleas to unseat Grace Poe reaches Senate,” Weekend Balita, September 8-14, 2015, I am quoting in part, “... Grace Poe pinanganak 1968. Ang convention di nag -apply sa kanya. Yong rules ng convention tinindigan ng Pilipinas 2011 lang. 1961 prinomulgate, nag

accede tayo 1975, pero hindi pa rin ito na put into operation till 2011.” Incidentally, I was born and raised in Paniqui, Tarlac, a town in Central Luzon that’s blessed with four dialects we acquired as an integral of growing up. At home, my father talked to me in Tagalog and my mother spoke to me in Pangasinan while I spoke Ilocano and Pampango with my neighbor playmates plus a thick terribly accented English in school with my teachers. I’ve been here in the USA since 1946 and I still speak all four dialects fluently. Sam Castelo 44 Redrock Irvine, CA 92604 (Thank you for your insight, Mr. Castelo, and your patronage of Weekend Balita, which has been serving the Filipino-American community since 1992. With a new Philippine Constitution in 1987, the national language was also “redefined.” Currently, our modern Philippine alphabet has 28 letters, yes, 26 Latin script letters plus ñ and ng. This was adopted because of the confusion, among others, as you have cited, along with the fact that it wouldn’t make sense having places like Quezon City, Roxas City, Cagayan de Oro if we don’t have those letters in our own alphabet, along with names such as Corazon Aquino, Franklin Drilon, Miriam Defensor Santiago, Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio, etc. – Ed)

Two years after ‘rebellion,’ Zamboanga siege case enters trial proper stage

For editorial: Do you have a story tip, letter to the editor or suggestion? Please email info@usasianpost.com or mail your letter to: Editorial Department, The U.S Asian Post, Balita Media, Inc., 520 East Wilson Ave., Glendale, CA 91206. Submissions must include full name, mailing address and contact numbers. All contributions are subject to the paper’s editorial standards. For advertising, please email info@balita.com. The U.S Asian Post is a publication of Balita Media, Inc., the leading source of news and information for the Filipino American community, which also publishes Weekend Balita. Views and opinions expressed by contributing writers and syndication partners are solely theirs and do not necessarily reflect that of the publishers. All advertising materials are subject to the paper’s editorial standards and discretion. All rights reserved. Reprints of materials published in the newspaper should have the explicit permission of The U.S Asian Post.

MANILA, Sept 14 (Mabuhay) – Two years after the deadly three-week Zamboanga siege in September 2013 and after the arraignment of more than 100 of the 236 accused, the rebellion case that stemmed from the incident is finally advancing to the trial proper stage. Assistant State Prosecutor Cesar Angelo Chavez said the Pasig Regional Trial Court Branch 158 in Pasig City which is handling the case, has scheduled the last three pre-trial hearings for September 22, 23, and 24. After the scheduled hearings, the proceedings enter the trial proper. Chave explained that a pre-trial allows issues involving a case to be “simplified.” He added: “The prosecution and the defense also agree and admit facts para hindi na i-prove sa court.” A total of 236 members of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF) stand accused and the information or charges stemming from the incident have been amended 11 times already, Chavez said. He said all detained accused – totaling more than 100 – have already been arraigned, while two others have been dropped from the information after they

turned into state witness. “Actually mabilis na siya [ang takbo ng kaso] considering the transfer of the detention of the accused and the number of documents and number of the accused,” Chavez said. Senior Deputy State Prosecutor Richard Anthony Fadullon assured the public that the rebellion case is “going through a very comprehensive pre-trial” but refused to elaborate or touch on the merits of the case. “I cannot say more as we have a gag order from the court. I hope you understand,” Fadullon said in a separate interview. Charges of rebellion and violation of the Philippine Act on Crimes Against International Humanitarian Law, Genocide, and Other Crimes Against Humanity were filed in two batches in October and December 2013 against MNLF chairman Nur Misuari and more than 200 others for the Zamboanga City siege. Misuari and his men were charged with rebellion for taking up arms and attacking government security forces and civilians, and by committing “acts of murder, pillage, disorder, looting, arson, and destruction of private and public properties.”

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Legislature sends Bonta’s Victim Compensation Bill to Brown throughout the state. AB 1140 implements many of these stakeholder recommendations, making a number of common-sense reforms to the program,” Bonta concluded. In addition to the provisions set forth above, the bill also adds new provisions to keep up with changing crimes and technology. For example, the bill includes online harassment as a compensable crime and allows compensation to a minor who sustains emotional injury as a direct result of the distribution of pictures or video of sexual conduct. The bill also allows service dogs to attend hearings in order to support their victim owners, requires that initial application materials be provided by the board in several languages in addition to English, and ensures that funeral costs for victims are sufficiently funded.

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(SACRAMENTO, CA) – Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland) announced today that his bill to modernize the California Victim Compensation Program passed both houses of the Legislature with strong bipartisan support and will now be considered by the Governor. The California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board (board) administers the California Victim Compensation Program (CalVCP) to compensate victims of specific types of crimes through the Restitution Fund. “AB 1140 makes progressive changes to the program, reflects a collaborative effort of all stakeholder groups, and helps California better meet the needs of crime victims. The balanced and common-sense changes made by AB 1140 will allow more victims of violent crime to fully participate in the program and obtain the critical services they need to heal and recover,” Bonta explained. Bonta explained some of the legal anomalies in current law that inspired the bill. A victim of domestic violence is currently barred from compensation if he or she fails to cooperate with law enforcement at the scene of the crime. However, there are many legitimate reasons, including fear of retaliation from the abuser, why a victim of domestic violence might be unwilling to cooperate with law enforcement. AB 1140 deletes this restriction and takes into account the complicated dynamics and the need to treat domestic violence victims with proper care. Current law also bars a person from compensation for injuries resulting from his or her commission of a crime of any degree. Bonta explained how this bar locks out hundreds of legitimate victims. “If a person is injured by a hit and run driver while jaywalking across the street, he or she is barred from compensation under current law as he or she was engaging in the crime of jaywalking, an infraction, when the injury occurred. AB 1140 amends the law to allow for compensation in these circumstances unless the crime committed was a felony.” A person on probation or parole is currently barred from participating in the program. “A woman on probation or parole could be violently sexually assaulted and not be able to participate in the fund,” said Assemblymember Bonta. “AB 1140 would allow compensation unless the person is a convicted sex offender or on probation or parole for a violent crime.” AB 1140 was crafted following extensive negotiations and a stakeholder process. “The CalVCP framework was developed several decades ago and has not been thoroughly revised since. To modernize and update the program to better serve victims of crime, the board conducted a Statute Modernization Project, spending many months collaborating with stakeholders from throughout the state. AB 1140 implements many of these stakeholder recommendations, making a number of common-sense reforms to the program,” Bonta concluded. In addition to the provisions set forth above, the bill also adds new provisions to keep up with changing crimes and technology. For example, the bill includes online harassment as a compensable crime and allows compensation to a minor who sustains emotional injury as a direct result of the distribution of pictures or video of sexual conduct. The bill also allows service dogs to attend hearings in order to support their victim owners, requires that initial application materials be provided by the board in several languages in addition to English, and ensures that funeral costs for victims are sufficiently funded. AB 1140 is sponsored by the California Victim Compensation and Government Claims Board and supported by Policy Link, the Alliance for Boys and Men of Color, the Alameda County District Attorney, YouthALIVE!, Legal Services for Prisoners with Children, and the Crime Victims Action Alliance. There is no opposition.

circumstances unless the crime committed was a felony.” A person on probation or parole is currently barred from participating in the program. “A woman on probation or parole could be violently sexually assaulted and not be able to participate in the fund,” said Assemblymember Bonta. “AB 1140 would allow compensation unless the person is a convicted sex offender or on probation or parole for a violent crime.” AB 1140 was crafted following extensive negotiations and a stakeholder process. “The CalVCP framework was developed several decades ago and has not been thoroughly revised since. To modernize and update the program to better serve victims of crime, the board conducted a Statute Modernization Project, spending many months collaborating with stakeholders from

Legislature sends Bonta’s VicƟm CompensaƟon Bill to Brown

scene of the crime. However, there are many legitimate reasons, including fear of retaliation from the abuser, why a victim of domestic violence might be unwilling to cooperate with law enforcement. AB 1140 deletes this restriction and takes into account the complicated dynamics and the need to treat domestic violence victims with proper care. Current law also bars a person from compensation for injuries resulting from his or her commission of a crime of any degree. Bonta explained how this bar locks out hundreds of legitimate victims. “If a person is injured by a hit and run driver while jaywalking across the street, he or she is barred from compensation under current law as he or she was engaging in the crime of jaywalking, an infraction, when the injury occurred. AB 1140 amends the law to allow for compensation in these

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Gala dinner for gold exhibit celebrates rich culture and history of pre-colonial PHL WASHINGTON, DC- An exhibit of gold artifacts discovered in Butuan, Philippines kicked off with a Gala Benefit Dinner that celebrated the rich culture and history of pre-colonial Philippines. The “Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms” Gala Benefit Dinner took place last September 10 at the Asia Society in New York City. Some 200 distinguished guests and dignitaries graced the gala event, including Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr., Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. and Philippine Consul General in New York Mario L. de Leon, Jr. Also present were Asia Society Global Co-Chair Henrietta Fore; Don Jaime Zobel De Ayala and his wife Doña Bea, and sons Jaime Augusto and Fernando; Ambassador Nicholas Platt, who served as the US envoy to the Philippines and former president of Asia Society; former US Ambassador to the Philippines Thomas Hubbard; and Mr. Oscar Lopez of the Lopez Group of Companies. The distinguished guests were welcomed by Asia Society President Josette Sheeran and Ms. Doris Magsaysay-Ho, Chairperson of Asia Society Philippines and one of the three co-chairs of the Philippine Gold Exhibit Committee. Ms. Loida Nicolas-Lewis and Ayala Corporation President Fernando Zobel De Ayala also chair the Committee. In his remarks, Ambassador Cuisia talked about how the discovery of the gold items led to a greater sense of pride and a shift in how Philippine history is viewed. “These treasures reveal the existence of thriving, diverse, and immensely creative societies during the pre-colonial era. We

are presented with an exceptional cache of evidence pointing to rich and flourishing cultures, dynamic commerce, and complex social interactions among the Asian kingdoms of that time. For Filipinos, the knowledge that some of these prominent polities were located in the Philippines gives us greater reason to be proud of our ancestors and our heritage,” said Ambassador Cuisia. The envoy also encouraged Filipinos and foreign friends to view the rare exhibit and learn more about a portion of Philippine history often overlooked. “The ancients admonished us, ‘know thyself’ so that you may unlock true and lasting wisdom. Filipinos who come and view this glittering exhibit will increase their knowledge and develop greater appreciation of where Filipinos came from. Our American friends, on the other hand, will gain new insights into Philippine history and cultural heritage,” said Ambassador Cuisia. The Gala Benefit Dinner marked the opening of the exhibit and launched a season of programming that highlights the richness and diversity of Philippine culture and current affairs, and explores Philippine cuisine, performing arts, film, design, and literature. “Philippine Gold: Treasures of Forgotten Kingdoms” runs from 11 September 2015 to 3 January 2016 at the Asia Society. The guests were unanimous in their praise for the collection, which consists of a selection of the most extraordinary objects from a 1981 discovery in Butuan. The exhibition also includes a few important loans from public and private collections including the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (Central Bank of the Philippines).

UCLA Pilipino Alumni Endowment surpasses $100,000 The UCLA Scholarship Office has confirmed that the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Endowment, which supports the UCLA Pilipino Alumni / Lovell Sevilla Scholarship Program, surpassed the $100,000 mark, a representative from the scholarship office said. In response, UCLA Pilipino Alumni Scholarship Director Bobby T. Rimas said “This is a strong indication of our commitment to supporting opportunities for deserving students to receive a world-class education at UCLA and the strength of our alumni network. Our collective fundraising efforts paid off. I would like to thank everyone who supported this renewed scholarship campaign. I would especially like to thank Mr. Mark Bautista, a UCLA Pilipino Alumni member who has done great work assisting me with spearheading this campaign to take the UCLA Pilipino Endowment to the $100,000 mark and beyond. While there is still much work ahead of us, in continuing to increase our endow-

ment, we can take a moment and celebrate this achievement. There will be a celebratory event in October for achieving this milestone for the UCLA Pilipino Alumni family.” In November 2014, the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association Board of Directors decided to rename its scholarship program to the UCLA Pilipino Alumni / Lovell Sevilla Scholarship Program. Ms. Lovell Sevilla, who served as the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Scholarship Director from 1995 through 2000, was instrumental in establishing the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Scholarship Endowment. In 2010, she was awarded the UCLA Chancellor’s Excellence in Service Award for expanding diversity in the UCLA Honors Programs and in 2011, became the UCLA director of counseling. Ms. Sevilla died in August 2014 at the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center after battling acute myeloid leukemia. The UCLA Pilipino Alumni / Lovell Sevilla Scholarship Program usually culmi-

Aisha Tyler wearing a hand-beaded, French lace Oliver Tolentino gown, accented with a caladopiña belt, at last night’s 2015 Creative Arts Emmy Awards In Hollywood in support of her Emmy-nominated show “Archer.” Photo: Jason Kempin/Getty Images

nates in the awarding of scholarships at UCLA Pilipino Alumni’s annual scholarship benefit. To date, the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association has awarded over 100 scholarships. The UCLA Pilipino Alumni Association’s mission is to create an environment for current students, alumni, and community members to network, both socially and professionally, as well as raise monies to support UCLA Pilipino Alumni’s

initiatives, which include scholarships for incoming high school, undergraduate, and graduate students at UCLA. If you have any inquiries regarding who may apply for UCLA Pilipino Alumni scholarships or would like to contribute towards the UCLA Pilipino Alumni Endowment, please contact UCLA Pilipino Alumni Scholarship Director Bobby T. Rimas at Bobby.Rimas@ alumni.ucla.edu.

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All roads lead to The Annual Asian Small Business Expo this Saturday in Alhambra

The Search to Involve Pilipino Americans join other Asian groups for The Annual Asian Small Business Expo that is take place this Saturday, September 19 at the Almansor Court Conference Center in Alhambra. Asian Pacific Islander Small Business Program Formed in 1999, Asian Pacific Islander Small Business Program (API SBP) is a collaborative five community organization: the Chinatown Service Center, Koreatown Youth & Community Center, Little Tokyo Service Center CDC, SIPA The Asian Pacific Islander Small Business Program (API SBP) & U.S. Bank (Title Sponsor) kick off the 16th Annual Asian Small Business Expo at a reception along and Thai Community Development Cen- with other sponsors and supporters last September 9 at the US Bank branch in Glendale. ter. insurance, investment, mortgage, and The Asian-American partners share trust and payment services products to over 170 years of service between them, consumers, businesses and institutions. are well known and respected for the Visit U.S. Bancorp on the web at www. quality of their work, the impact in their usbank.com. U.S. Bank. services and their standing in the comEveryone is invited to join the event munity. The mission of ABP SBP is to as- that will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Adsist the development of small and micro mission is free, so are the workshops and businesses in Los Angeles with a particu- parking. More information can be read at lar focus on the Chinese, Korean, Japa- http://apisbp2015.eventbrite.com. nese, Thai and the Filipino business communities, especially those of low-income immigrants. Main sponsor is US Bank. US Bank operates 666 branches and employs more than 6,900 people in California. Minneapolis-based U.S. Bancorp (NYSE: USB), with $419 billion in assets as of June 30, 2015, is the parent company of U.S. Bank National Association, the fifth largest commercial bank in the United States. The Company operates 3,164 banking offices in 25 states and 5,020 ATMs and (From L to R): Colleen Seto, API SBP Program Manager, Ron Fong, API SBP Director, Sophy Lu, CSC BusiSwing, API SBP Business Counselor, Robert Egger, President ness Counselor, Eric Racusin, US Bank, Sandra Sandra Rothermund, US Bank, Ann Liu, US Bank, Caitlin provides a comprehensive John & CEO of L.A. Kitchen, Joemil Reguindin, District Liaison, Chairman Chen, US Bank, Michael Kuhn, Vice President & District Manager, US Bank, Lan Nguyen, US Bank, Bonnie line of banking, brokerage, Jerome Horton, Board of Equalization Tseng, US Bank

Many older Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders rely on Social Security as primary source of income WASHINGTON, D.C., September 9, 2015 – Social Security is critical to the retirement security of older Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPIs), according to AARP Public Policy Institute’s new fact sheet. Sixty-five percent of AAPIs age 65 and older receive Social Security benefits, including twenty-eight percent who rely on it as their primary source of family income. Nine percent of older AAPIs rely on Social Security as their only source of family income. “Social Security: Who’s Counting on It?” provides insight into how Social Security benefits all Americans. Last year, about 59 million people received Social Security, a federal program designed to protect individuals who can no longer work and their families from loss of income due to retirement, disability, or death. “Following the 80th anniversary of Social Security last month, it is a lifeline for many AAPIs that helps keep them and their families out of poverty,” said Daphne Kwok, AARP Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American and Pacific Islander Audience. “AARP works

to strengthen Social Security because the vast majority of Americans of all ages believe it is important to provide financial security for everyone.” As recent immigrants, AAPIs have lower median Social Security incomes according to an AARP report issued last year. Therefore they are less likely than African Americans, Hispanics, and whites to depend on Social Security for 50 percent or more of their family income. Older minorities are less likely than whites to have family income other than Social Security. A little more than half (53.4 percent) of AAPIs age 65 and older own have income from assets, but only a quarter (24.4 percent) have income from pensions and retirement savings. Other key findings: – Social – Security income kept roughly 33 percent of older Americans, about 14.7 million people, out of poverty. The poor (income below poverty line) and the near-poor (income between 100 and 150 percent of the poverty line) rely on Social Security for a significant share of their family income. – Social Security benefits are particu-

larly important for women because, on average, women live longer and earn less than men do, so they are more dependent than men are on Social Security’s progressive benefit and inflation-adjusted, lifetime income. – Social Security is currently fully funded with $2.8 trillion in reserves, but in 2020 will begin to be drawn down these reserves in order to continue paying full benefits. At this rate, Social Security reserves will be depleted in 2034, less than 20 years from now. Visit www.aarp.org/ppi to read AARP Public Policy Institute’s fact sheet and find more information about Social Security. Visit www.aarp.org/aapi to read AARP’s report Are Asian American and Pacific Islanders Financially Secure? About AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income secu-

rity, 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 Spanish-language website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.

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KITCHENOMICS

alking in the door from a hectic day to the heady, fragrant smells of a meal ready to enjoy may seem like a far-fetched fantasy. With the right ingredients and cookware, you can delight your busy family with dinners that taste like you spent a day hard at work in the

kitchen. These easy, time-saving slow cooker recipes are fast on prep time and big on unique flavors. The seasonings, made by Orrington Farms with natural ingredients and no added MSG or gluten, blend perfectly with your fresh additions for a homemade taste. For more delicious dinner ideas, visit orringtonfarms.com or Facebook/OrringtonFarms.

Bourbon BBQ Baby Back Ribs Prep time: 45 minutes Cook time: 8 hours Servings: 6 6 pounds pork baby back ribs, cut into serving-size pieces 1 pouch Orrington Farms BBQ Pork Roast Seasoning, divided 1 cup packed brown sugar 1 cup tomato sauce 1 cup prepared Orrington Farms Beef Flavored Soup Base & Seasoning 1/2 cup bourbon

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 teaspoon hot sauce Preheat oven to 475 F. Rub 2 tablespoons pork roast seasoning over ribs and place meaty side up on large baking sheet. Bake 30 minutes. Meanwhile, in medium bowl, combine remaining ingredients. Place ribs in large slow cooker. Pour sauce over ribs. Cover and cook on low 8-10 hours or on high 4-5 hours, until ribs are tender. Remove ribs from slow cooker. Set aside and keep warm. Carefully pour sauce through a fine strainer set over a 2-quart saucepan, reserving liquid. Skim fat, if desired. Bring sauce to boil. Reduce heat; simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally, 30 minutes or until thickened. Brush sauce over ribs.

Creamy Slow Cooker Chicken Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 5 hours Servings: 8 6 boneless skinless chicken breast halves, about 6 ounces each 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed reduced sodium cream of mushroom soup, undiluted 1 package (8 ounces) fresh sliced mushrooms 1/2 cup white wine 1 pouch (2.5 ounces) Orrington Farms Slow Cookers Chicken Noodle Soup Seasoning 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, cubed hot cooked rice pilaf Place chicken in large slow cooker. In small bowl, combine mushroom

soup, mushrooms, wine and soup seasoning. Pour over chicken. Cover and cook on low 4 hours. Stir in cream cheese. Cover and cook 1 hour or until cream cheese is melted. Remove lid and, if desired, serve chicken breast halves or shred chicken. Serve over rice pilaf.

Beef Burgundy Stew Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 8 hours Servings: 8 1/3 cup all-purpose flour 2 pounds cubed beef stew meat 3 large carrots, peeled and chopped 1 bag (10 ounces) pearl onions, trimmed 1 can (8 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 cup prepared Orrington Farms Low Sodium Beef Broth Base & Seasoning

1/2 cup dry red wine 1/4 cup tomato paste 1 pouch Orrington Farms Slow Cookers Vegetable Beef Stew Seasoning hot cooked egg noodles (optional) Place flour in large re-sealable plastic bag. Add beef a few pieces at a time and shake to coat. Place beef, carrots, onions, mushrooms and garlic in large slow cooker. In medium bowl, combine prepared beef broth base, wine, tomato paste and vegetable beef stew seasoning. Pour over beef and vegetables. Cover and cook on low 8-10 hours or until meat is tender. Serve over egg noodles, if desired.

Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff Prep time: 25 minutes Cook time: 7 hours Servings: 7 1 1/2 pounds top round steak, cubed 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon paprika 1/4 teaspoon pepper 2 tablespoons butter

1 package (8 ounces) fresh sliced portobello mushrooms 1 small onion, chopped 2 medium garlic cloves, minced 1 can (10.75 ounces) condensed reduced sodium cream of mushroom soup, undiluted 1 tablespoon Orrington Farms Restaurant Style Au Jus 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons water 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour 1 cup sour cream hot cooked egg noodles minced fresh parsley Sprinkle beef with salt, paprika and pepper. In large skillet, brown beef in butter. Place beef in large slow cooker. In same skillet, saute mushrooms, onion and garlic until tender. Transfer to slow cooker. Stir in soup, au jus mix, Worcestershire sauce and 1/4 cup water. Cover and cook on low 6 hours. Combine remaining water and flour until smooth; add to slow cooker. Stir in sour cream. Cover and cook 1 hour longer. Serve over noodles; sprinkle with parsley.

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ENTERT

INMENT

Gelli won’t pose for men’s mag Gelli de Belen-Rivera used to make temperature rise displaying her delectable figure in such films as “Ikaw Lang Ang Mamahalin (Camiguin).” Two decades and two sons later, Gelli looks as hot that many deem her perfect as cover girl for a men’s magazine. Flattered as she is, Gelli would rather not entertain the notion in deference to Julio Alessandro and Joaquin Andres, her sons with husband Ariel Rivera. “As much as I would like to do it, ’yung concern ko is ’yung mga bata. I’m sure they (any men’s mag) will adjust naman sa kaya kong gawin, kaya lang ang worry ko talaga ’yung mga anak ko,” said Gelli in a recent interview for “Happy Wife Happy Life” wherein she pinch hits for Mariel Rodriguez.

The 42-year old hot momma noted how her children are quite conservative, sharing, “Para silang tatay nila, eh… tsaka ayokong may pasanin sila na tipong matukso sila ng ka-eskwela o kaibigan, ayoko ng ganu’n.” Gelli has another reason for saying no. “Yung stretch marks ko kasi kita eh,” she said. “Kung pwede lang talaga, I’ll do it. It’s just that iba na ang katawan ko ngayon.” Gelli and Ariel have been together for almost 18 years now but she continues to learn things about him and their marriage. “Being a wife is like life, it’s a journey. Iba-iba ang experiences bilang asawa everyday. Kahit matagal na kaming (magasawa) ni Ariel, may mga araw pa rin na nagugulat or nawiwindang pa din ako,” she related.

Gelli de Belen-Rivera

Mocha Girls’ arrested in Malaysia

Vic Sotto wants intimate wedding Comedian Vic Sotto denied that his wedding to girlfriend Pauleen Luna will definitely happen during the festive Christmas season, as revealed by the actress’s manager Lolit Solis. Sotto stressed that there are no definite wedding plans yet. “Kwento kwentuhan pa lang, no details yet,” he said. “’Yung mga end of the year, walang ganoong detalye.” Sotto made headlines last week when he finally confirmed that he and Luna are engaged. At the press conference, Sotto hinted that the wedding might happen early next year. “For me personally before the Year of the Goat ends,” he said. According to the Chinese calendar, the Year of the Goat will last until February 7, 2016. Sotto also said he prefers to have an intimate wedding. “Kami ni Pauleen we are not into big (weddings) ‘yung talagang engrande. Talagang sakto lang – kaibigan, family, kayo kasama kayo sa kaibigan, mga dabarkads, mga kapamilya, kapatid kapuso, mga pabebe lalo na. ... wala pa kaming final na plano talaga.” The comedian also played down the

Not that she is unhappy. “Ang pagiging asawa talagang masaya naman kung gugustuhin mo itong maging masaya. Sa umpisa pa lang dapat ’yung attitude mo towards your marriage ay ’yung, think about what you can contribute in the marriage instead of waiting for what you can get out of it,” she explained. Gelli believes that “husbands set the pace,” in the relationship, while the wives are there to “maintain or enhance” it. “I really think na ang babae, natural na sa’tin na we want our relationships to work. We are usually the ones na ’yung faithful, devoted, ’yung nandi-dyan sa children and everything. Ang lalaki, hindi lahat ganu’n. Feeling ko kapag ang napangasawa ng babae ay ganu’n, ‘yun ang swak. So talagang ang lalaki ang magdadala, ang babae ang susunod,” she said. (MNS)

The manager of Filipino group Mocha Girls has addressed reports that her wards were arrested in Malaysia late last week for “working without necessary permits.” “They (Mocha Girls) were rendering their second song number when the Malaysian Immigration authorities conducted a raid in the hotel they were performing, subjecting them to passport and the required permit inspection for our shows,” manager Byron Monfero Cristobal confirmed via his Facebook account. He alleged that the producer “failed to produce the work permit that his contractual commitment with us mandated him,’ resulting to the Mocha Girls being “taken into custody and detained in the Malaysian Immigration prison for 5 days.” Cristobal said the group arrived in Kuala Lumpur last Sept. 4 as part of an Asian tour that also

Pauleen Luna and Vic Sotto

growing excitement surrounding the muchawaited showbiz event. “I’m excited, pero hindi ko pa iniisip ‘yon. Mas iniisip ko ang ‘Bebe Love.’ First things first,” the 61-year-old actor said. “I’m feeling thankful, swerte-swerte lang.” (MNS)

Mocha Girls

included Thailand. He claimed that during the investigation, the Mocha Girls were given “some measure of courtesy and goodwill” as soon as the Malaysian authorities confirmed them as “legitimate artists and professional performers.” According to reports citing Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Charles Jose, the group was fined instead of a case being filed against them. Cristobal stressed that’s all there is to it. “We were not detained for sexy performances as some would speculate,” the same statement read in part. “Mocha Girls’ regular venue for their performances is the international community and the rules and culture of the country where we perform are in our psyche to give respect to always.” The manager said they plan to take “appropriate legal action” against the producer. (MNS)

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MOTORING The most eagerly anticipated models of the Frankfurt Intâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;l Motor Show Sunday September 13 2015 (Relaxnews) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Ahead of the opening of the 66th Frankfurt Motor Show, the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car manufacturers are arriving in Germany with their latest designs and models in tow. Here is a review of the most promising models known to be on the program while we look forward to sole surprises. The latest generation of the most iconic car models will be premiered in Germany. Names like the Toyota Prius, pioneer of the hybrid vehicle; the Renault MĂŠgane; the Audi A4; and the Opel Astra will all be showing up in their newest form. The main focus will however be given to the numerous updates on SUVs and crossovers. The trade show will set the stage for the presentation of the first SUV vehicles from car manufacturers Bentley and Jag-

uar: the Bentayga and the F-Pace. Mercedes will present its new GLC, successor to the GLK, and BMW will reveal its new X1 while Volkswagen will showcase its latest Tiguan. Dacia will exhibit the 2016 Duster, and Nissan will present its new eagerly awaited concept car that will offer a hint of future models while Toyota may unveil a new compact crossover based on the C-HR. Sport cars are also expected to steal the spotlight. Mercedes could be the highlight of this category with its C Class 63 AMG coupe. Meanwhile, Porsche will present its latest 911 model and Peugeot its 308 R Hybrid. This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supercar agenda remains relatively quiet. Ferrari will most likely introduce the 488 Spider, 6 months after the 488 GTB coupe, and Lamborghini will

showcase a roadster version of its Aventador SV. Bugattiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Veyron will give way to the highly anticipated new Chiron (name of the famous racing champion), though only the concept car developed for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gran Turismoâ&#x20AC;? video game will be displayed in Frankfurt. For those craving more luxury, Rolls-Royce should hit the spot with its new Dawn convertible.

Several other concept cars will be showcased: the CitroĂŤn Cactus M and Aircross, Peugeotâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s all-electric Fractal and Audiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s etron Quattro that should give us a taste of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for the brandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future sporty and electric SUVs. The 66th Frankfurt International Motor Show from September 17-27, website:iaa. de

The Infiniti XC70 Ultimate: The premium SUV will be looking to make an impact with discerning customers.ÂŠInfiniti

Infiniti brings its ultimate SUV to Frankfurt Friday September 11 2015 (Relaxnews) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The new QX70 Ultimate will meet the desires of even the most demanding potential owners when it goes on sale following its September 15 reveal. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;standardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; QX70 isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exactly lacking for comfort, performance or exclusivity, but as competition hits fever pitch at the premium end of the SUV market, the luxury Japanese marque is leaving nothing to chance. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The QX70 has long struck a chord with buyers seeking something exceptional but the Infiniti QX70 Ultimate is designed to respond to the most exclusive needs and desires of buyers,â&#x20AC;? said FranĂ§ois Goupil de

BouillĂŠ, Vice President of Infiniti Europe, Middle East and Africa. So the new car gets dark chrome front and rear accents, new 21-inch alloy wheels and LED running lights on the outside. Under the hood thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the choice of a petrol or diesel V6 mated to a seven-speed automatic gearbox. And inside, surfaces boast a black lacquer finish and the seats soft leather with contrasting purple stitching. Just exactly what the cabin looks like wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be revealed until the Frankfurt motor show, but with prices starting at â&#x201A;Ź70,000 it will need to be on a par with a Range Rover or Volvo XC90.

The Chinese car market has set a new record in 2014 with 19.7 million new car registrations for passenger vehicles. ÂŠchungking/Shutterstock.com

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Major carmakers pledge auto-braking for US market Friday September 11 2015 (WashingtonAFP) – Major global carmakers pledged Friday to install auto-braking technology as a standard feature for vehicles sold in the US market, government and safety officials announced. The technology, which is already an option on some cars, uses on-vehicle sensors to detect a possible collision and applies brakes if the driver fails to respond to warning sounds. Because human error and driver distraction are key factors in many road accidents, the auto emergency braking (AEB) technology is expected to substantially reduce rear-end collisions and other accidents. “We are entering a new era of vehicle safety, focused on preventing crashes from ever occurring, rather than just protecting occupants when crashes happen,” said US Transportation Secretary Anthony Foxx, making the announcement at an event hosted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. “But if technologies such as automatic emergency braking are only available as options or on the most expensive models,

too few Americans will see the benefits of this new era.” Ten automakers, whose cars account for more than half the US market, agreed to make the auto-braking technology a standard feature: Audi, BMW, Ford, General Motors, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Tesla, Toyota, Volkswagen and Volvo. “The evidence is mounting that AEB is making a difference,” said insurance institute president Adrian Lund. “Most crashes involve driver error. This technology can compensate for the mistakes every driver makes because the systems are always on alert, monitoring the road ahead and never getting tired or distracted.” Lund said several studies including one from the institute shows the auto-braking technology can reduce insurance injury claims by as much as 35 percent. The announcement did not include a specific timetable for deployment of the new systems. Transportation officials said they would be urging the other carmakers to join the pledge to make the technology standard as soon as possible.

Auto emergency braking (AEB) technology is expected to substantially reduce rear-end collisions and other accidents. ©Kichigin/Shutterstock.com

Cadillac to help educate customers with help from Public School

The Nissan Leaf: Now with 25% more range Thursday September 10 2015 (Relaxnews) – The Leaf 30kWh will be capable of covering up to 250km on a single charge when it goes on sale at the end of the year. The huge improvement in distance is thanks to a much better battery that offers more energy but without taking up any

more space. All of which means that the Leaf has managed to move back up to the top of the range charts in the compact electric car market. “An up-to 155 mile (250km) range opens the world of EV to thousands of drivers

across Europe who before just weren’t completely confident that an EV would work for them. This extra range will make LEAF ownership an easy first choice, for many, many more drivers,” said Paul Willcox, Chairman, Nissan Europe.

Thursday September 10 2015 (Relaxnews) – The US motoring brand with international premium ambitions is partnering with American fashion design label Public School to help highlight the upcoming Cadillac XT5’s style credentials The XT5 will be the company’s flagship crossover when it goes on sale next year and in order to ensure that those that know, know, the car is being unveiled alongside Public School’s Pre-Fall collection in Dubai this November. “This is a new way for two American brands to join forces, share a passion for design and grow globally,” said Andrew Smith, Cadillac executive director of Global Design. “For Cadillac, it gives new meaning to being a patron of the arts.” The Dubai event coincides with the country’s annual motorshow and those attendees with an invitation to view the new Cadillac will also get a special capsule collection of Pubic School clothes inspired by the new car.

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PRAYERS PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for everything and confirm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how difficult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted. Grateful Thanks -RUBY

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High Fees hold back green card holders 800,000 immigrants primed for citizenship in LA County By Abner Galino

In Los Angeles County, close to 800,000 lawful permanent residents (LPRs) or green card holders are eligible to become American citizens but just about half of them would take the time to make that happen. This was revealed during an ethnic media roundtable held at the Los Angeles City Hall through the initiative of the New Americans Campaign and the New America Media. The roundtable, which happened last September 3, was a kickoff of the celebration of the Citizenship Day on September 17. Around 20 participating organizations will be holding a series of multilingual citizenship workshops across Los Angeles. There were three main reasons, according to one of the panelists Nasim Khansari, Citizenship Director for Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles, why many eligible green card holders do not apply for their citizenships. They include: the prohibitive cost of the naturalization process; the stringent language requirement imposed on applicants; and the lack of the sense of urgency on the part of green card holders. Khansari said her organization and other organizations in LA participating in the New American Campaign are working together to address these concerns by providing free workshops, civic classes and free legal assistance that include helping applicants get a fee waiver for the $680 application cost. Another member of the panel, Linda

Lopez, chief of the Office of Immigrant Affairs at the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office, announced that their office is “partnering with local organizations that form part of the New Americans Campaign, public libraries, ethnic media and the Los Angeles County to put forward all the information and resources needed to get the green card holders to apply for citizenship. “We are working to make sure that every person who is eligible to become a U.S. citizen does,” Lopez said, adding that there are more benefits and rights, particularly the right to vote, that await those who would become U.S. citizens. Elisa Sequiera, of the NALEO Educational Fund, said her organization educates newly naturalized citizens on how to register and vote, the candidates or issues that are on the ballot. She added that they help new citizens to understand that citizenship is not “end of the journey but as the beginning of the journey to civic participation.” “And specially when deciding on immigration laws, who better have a voice on the table than new citizens?”Sequiera stressed. When asked if presidential hopeful Donald Trump’s inflammatory remarks on immigrants was causing a rise in naturalization this year, Sequiera said: Immigrants want to become U.S. citizens regardless of someone is disparaging them or not. But we do know that negative politics lead immigrants to be more motivated to be involved. Half of the 800,000 green card holders eligible for citizenship are settled in the city of Los Angeles. Throughout California, there are 2.5 million of them out of the national total of about 9 million.

Bongbong to announce 2016 plans soon MANILA, Sept 12 (Mabuhay) – With a month to go before the filing of certificates of candidacy (COCs), Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. said that he will soon announce whether he will run for the national elections. The senator said that he continues to iron out plans with several political parties and personalities. “We are still deciding. Lahat ng tao, lahat ng partido, kausap kami. Hindi naman kami nagtatago, sinisikreto yung mga bagay na ganyan pero hindi pa tapos ang usapan,” the namesake of the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos said. He also assured that, “The moment I know, I will tell you... Malapit na, bago mag-filing [ng certificate of candidacy].” The Commission on Elections (Comelec) has scheduled the filing of COCs from October 12 to 16.

Vice President Jejomar Binay earlier confirmed that he is considering Marcos as a possible running mate in the 2016 elections. The lawmaker thanked his supporters, who were also present in the celebration of the 98th birthday of his late father. Just like the previous years, the Marcoses offered Mass for the deceased president at Batac Church in Ilocos. The commemoration was capped off with the musical play “Rock and Roll” which featured the late strongman’s favorite songs from the 1970s and 80s. At the end of the show, the younger Marcos climbed the stage and tearfully expressed his gratitude to the youth performers. “Naiyak ako, natawa ako, napasayaw ako – hanggang ngayon naiiyak ako. But anyway, what a wonderful thing [it is] to celebrate the life of my father.

From left: storytellers Alenoush Bidrousian of Iranian ancestry and Korean-American Manok Cha; panelists Elisa Sequiera, of the NALEO Educational Fund; Nasim Khansari, Citizenship Director for Asian Americans Advancing Justice-Los Angeles; and Linda Lopez, chief of the Office of Immigrant Affairs at the Los Angeles Mayor’s Office. Photo: Odette Galino

The New American Campaign urged ethnic media to help reach out to these green card holders and encourage them to naturalize this year. The organizers also brought in several storytellers that included Saul Montoya and his wife, Leticia, who were both of Mexican ancestry; Alenoush Bidrousian, who was of Iranian ancestry and Manok Cha, who was of Korean ancestry.

The storytellers recounted their experiences while they were still green cards holders and also told the audience why they subsequently decided to become U.S, citizens. Bidrousian said she gained many rights as a woman when she became a U.S. citizen, which would not have been available to her in Iran. She also said that there are more job opportunities for U.S. citizens, particularly in the government.

Roxas on P500 bills with his face: Those should be investigated MANILA, Sept 10 (Mabuhay) – Liberal Party standard bearer and outgoing Interior Secretary Mar Roxas denied knowing anything about the fake 500-peso bills that were distributed to members of the media at the House of Representatives on Thursday. Bearing Roxas’ face, the fake bills were placed in white envelopes with the inscriptions in front “Salapi pa more!!! and at the back “Ibulsa ang pera, iboto ang kursonada.” The return address of the envelopes is “HTA Inc., New Manila, Quezon City.” After his speech at the 44th Founding Anniversary of Quirino Province, Roxas told reporters: “It’s fake at dapat na ipadala ito sa pulis, sa NBI, para maipakita kung sino ang nagka-counterfeit nito.” Asked if this would affect his candidacy, Roxas said “no,” adding, “Why will it affect our candidacy? Wala naman kaming kinalaman. Obviously it is ah ... pakawala ng ... ating mga kalaban at palagay ko wala namang naniniwala na totoo iyang mga kumakalat na iyan.” In Malacañang meanwhile, Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. described the distribution of the fake P500-peso bills as part of the negative campaigning against the administration’s presidential bet.