Us Asian Post December 16, 2016

T H E

ENTERT

INMENT

Kaye Abad tied the knot with Paul Jake Castillo in Cebu WWW.USASIANPOST.COM

Vol. 5 No. 57 LOS ANGELES

See Page 9

A BALITA MEDIA PUBLICATION

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

No deal yet on Chinese guns Chinese envoy says firearms sale to PHL not yet ‘finalized’ MANILA, Dec 13 (Mabuhay) – China’s top diplomat to Manila has clarified President Rodrigo Duterte’s remarks that Beijing was ready to ship firearms to the Philippines, saying both countries “have not come to the stage of finalizing such deal.”

“It is not a done deal yet,” Ambassador Zhao Jianhua said at a Chinese Embassy Christmas reception for the media on Monday night.

Duterte on Sunday night said the firearms ordered by Philippines from China, which are payable in 25 years, are ready to See GUNS, page 12

Duterte: Reds will die for me, believe me MANILA, Dec 13 (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte believes that communists will go as far as dying for him.

Duterte made the statement as he talked about destabilization plots against him during the Wallace Business Forum in Malacañang on Monday night.

He reiterated that the “yellow” was the only calling for his ouster because the Left will never demand

for him to step down. By “yellow,” Duterte was referring to the Liberal Party that used yellow as its campaign color during the May elections.

“The Reds would never demand my ouster. They will die for me, believe me. That’s the reason why I was able to convince them for a talk. There have been a…It’s starts with the good intention pronounceSee REDS, page 12

BRP Andres Bonifacio arrives from California: Families welcome the crew of BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF17) as new frigate arrives early Friday (Dec. 9, 2016) from California. The vessel will help patrol the Sulu seas in Mindanao. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

Group vows to defend Duterte vs ‘sinister’ plots MANILA, Dec. 9 (PNA) – The one million-strong Mayor Rodrigo Roa Duterte National Executive Coordinating Committee (MRRD-NECC), which was instrumental in convincing the Chief Executive to run in the last elections, on Friday rallied its supporters all over the country to “defend the president at all costs” from moves to discredit the country’s leader allegedly being hatched by sinister forces affected by his campaign against criminality, corruption

and the economic status quo of a privileged few.

In a press conference held at the historic Club Filipino, MRRD-NECC leaders and supporters, who include top officials from various government agencies such as the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), vowed to offer strong resistance against such moves, stressing that See DEFEND, page 12

Tagle asks public to pray against death penalty MANILA, Dec. 10 (PNA) – The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Manila (RCAM) urged members of the clergy and the public to pray against the revival of the death penalty.

In a statement, Fr. Reginald Malicdem, rector of the Manila Cathedral asked all clergy, Superiors of Religious Communities (men and women) and heads of schools in the archdiocese to said the prayer See TAGLE, page 12

Cardinal Tagle meets Miss U Pia Wurtzbach: Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle bestows a blessing on Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach, Miss Universe 2015, during the latter’s visit on Monday (Dec. 12, 2016) at The Palacio Arzobispal in Intramuros, Manila.

(PNA photo by Jess M. Escaros Jr.)

PHL ready to host Miss Universe

Saturday night party with the Miss Universe beauties: Department of Tourism Secretary Wanda Corazon Teo(4th from right), Ilocos Sur Governor Luis Chavit Singson(5th from right), Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach (center), Richelle Singson-Michael (4th from left), chairman of the pageant host committee and Miss Universe Organization President Paula Mary Shugart (5th from left) poses with the 11 candidates of Miss Universe who were introduced to Filipino fans during the pageant’s kick-off party on Saturday evening (Dec. 10, 2016) at the Conrad Hotel, SM Mall of Asia in Pasay City. Also in the photo are Miss USA Deshauna Barber; Miss Vietnam Dang Thi Le Hang; Miss Thailand Chalita Suansane; Miss Philippines Maxine Medina; Miss New Zealand Tania Pauline Dawson; Miss Myanmar Htet Htet Htun; Miss Malaysia Kiran Jassal; Miss Korea Jenny Kim; Miss Indonesia Kezia Roslin; Miss Japan Sari Nakazawa; and Miss Australia Caris Emily Tiivel (PNA photo by Avito C.Dalan)

MANILA, Dec. 9 (PNA) – Two candidates for the Miss Universe Pageant which will be held in the country arrived on Friday, Dec. 9 and ten others are expected to come to do photo shoots that will showcase the country’s scenic places which will be aired during the event next year, Tourism Undersecretary Katherine Chloe de Castro said.

De Castro made the announcement in a press briefing in Malacanan, as she presented the two candidates for Miss Universe , Ms. USA Deshauna Barber and Ms. New Zealand Tania Pauline Dawson to the media. Dawson is half Filipino.

Expected to arrive are candidates from Korea, China, Australia, Japan, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysian, Myanmar and Vietnam.

De Castro said the reigning Miss Universe, Pia Alonzo-Wurtzbach of the Philippines will join the candidates in tours and activities from January 13 to 30, 2017.

De Castro said the candidates are scheduled to tour Siargao to surf, and to visit Cebu, Vigan, and Manila.

“This is just one of the ways for us to showcase to the world the hidden treasures of our country.

A lot of the unknown destinations will be featured in the final show of the Miss Universe,” she said.

She also disclosed that for September alone, the country has registered a total of 400,000 recorded foreign arrivals. For every month, the country is now getting some 500 visitors more or less, she said.

De Castro expected that the pageant will attract more tourSee MISS UNIVERSE, page 12

2

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

THE US ASIAN POST

Sandiganbayan acquits Bolante of PHP723-M plunder rap

Sotto receives another ethics complaint vs De Lima: Senate Majority Floor Leader and committee on ethics chairperson Sen. Vicente Sotto III (2nd from right) on Monday (Dec. 12, 2016) receives a copy of a complaint from Rep. Reynaldo Umali, chairperson of House committee on justice (right). Also in photo are Sen. Panfilo Lacson (left) and Senator Gringo Honasan (2nd from left). (PNA photo by Avito C.Dalan)

House leaders file criminal complaint vs. De Lima MANILA, Dec 13 (Mabuhay) – Leaders of the House of Representatives on Tuesday filed criminal complaints against Sen. Leila De Lima before the Department of Justice (DOJ) for advising Ronnie Dayan to snub the investigation on the proliferation of illegal drugs inside the New Bilibid Prison.

Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez along with Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas and House Committee on Justice chairman and Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali filed the complaint against De Lima for her alleged violation of Article 150 of the Revised Penal Code.

The complaint was filed at the DOJ a day after the same congressmen lodged an ethics complaint against De Lima at the Senate over her alleged violation of the rules of Congress.

“As an incumbent Senator, former Secretary of Justice and a lawyer, advising and inducing Mr. Dayan to hide and not to attend and/ or appear in the House in-

quiry for which he was duly summoned is tantamount to inducing disobedience to summons issued by Congress, of which she is a sitting member,” the complaint stated.

The complaint was received by Justice Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II. Disobeying summons from Congress or its committees is punishable by fine and/or prison term of one to six months, according to the Revised Penal Code.

“Hindi po kami rerespetuhin ng kahit sino kapag pinabayaan namin ito na wala kaming gagawin sa disrespect na ginagawa sa institusyon,” Umali told reporters.

De Lima left for the US on Sunday and is expected to remain overseas until December 22.

Dayan, a former driver-bodyguard and confessed former lover of De Lima, was arrested by the police in La Union on November 22, paving the way for his appearance before the House

panel.

During the inquiry, Dayan denied collecting drug money from high profile inmates but admitted to receiving around P8 million from self-confessed drug distributor Kerwin Espinosa supposedly for De Lima’s election bid.

Dayan also told congressmen that he went into hiding upon De Lima’s advice, which was coursed through his daughter Hannah Mae in October.

De Lima, for her part, has repeatedly denied involvement in the illegal drug trade. (MNS)

MAG

TAYO VISIT OUR WEBSITE

www.usasianpost.com

PROJECT ASSISTANT WANTED

Los Angeles based Advertising agency is looking for a very presentable assistant to help manage our Filipino clients advertising portfolio. Should be available to attend community events, take photos and answer client questions intelligently.

Our successful applicant will also be able to assemble and present advertising quotations and follow up as the project liaison between client and the various production departments here at the agency. Some exposure in social media marketing advantage.

Must be well dressed applicant, have a clean driving record, and be articulate in English and Tagalog. Prior experience in customer service, sales, or P/R an advantage.

For immediate response, please email your resume to:

losangelesjob@outlook.com We would like to hear from you.

MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – The Sandiganbayan on Monday acquitted former Department of Agriculture (DA) Undersecretary Jocelyn “Joc-joc” Bolante of plunder case over the alleged misuse of PHP723-million fertilizer fund.

The anti-graft court said that the prosecution failed to provide evidence that will link Bolante to plunder charges.

Last August, the prosecution submitted a 20-page judicial affidavit of “whistleblower” Jose Barredo, claiming that he was a runner in the fertilizer fund scam.

However, the Sandiganbayan found “nothing substantial” on Barredo’s statement.

The Sandiganbayan dismissed the PHP723-million fertilizer fund scam plunder case despite the chance given to the prosecution to amend the case information.

“All that is essentially stated by Barredo is the modus operandi of the scam, the persons who were offered...,” the Sandiganbayan said. “...or had received, and how the “SOP” (Standard Operating Procedure) or commissions were distrib-

uted,” it added.

The Sandiganbayan said that “are either local officials who had fund allotments from the DA or DA regional directors...”

It added that “...and none of them are even charged in this case as co-conspirators of Bolante or of the other accused.”

The Sandiganbayan said that Bolante was “central key player in the case but there was no proof he acquired ill-gotten wealth.”

“No material representation, other than the release of the funds, could be shown attributable to accused Bolante,” it added.

MANILA, Dec 13 (Mabuhay) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday night insisted that only the ashes of late dictator President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. was buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.

“But for those who cannot forget, you are condemned to—enjoy your grief until you die. Marcos when he was buried in Hawaii, you know, the Americans were very strict with that, you cannot go around the law and preserve a body there it’s not allowed. You have to go inside the tomb,” Duterte said before guests of the Wallace Business Forum in Malacañang.

“And Marcos when the time they got him out there, bring it to the Philippines,

he’s just ashes. Or at the very least skeletal remains.

And by the time that he was buried there in Libingan ng [mga] Bayani, he’s just ashes. So and I…And they would just paint me as a bad guy,” he added.

Marcos died in Honolulu, Hawaii on September 28, 1989 because of his kidney, heart, and lung ailments.

But his remains were brought back to the Philippines four years after his death, during the time of former President Fidel V. Ramos.

Since then until his burial at the heroes’ cemetery, he was interred in Batac, Ilocos Norte in a refrigerated, glass coffin with his supposed preserved body inside.

Duterte repeated in his speech that his mother, Soledad Roa-Duterte, fought against the Martial Law. “My mother led the Yellow Friday Movement in Davao City. You can ask everybody and anybody.

Sonny would tell you. She was the only one in the plaza bullying at the military because all of the audience were policemen and Philippine Constabulary at that time,” he said.

“And so my mother was the only who stood up and bullshit them in public. And they were only four of them walking in the streets every Friday until it blown into something big and eventually the revolution. Baka hindi nila alam iyan,” he added. (MNS)

Duterte: Marcos was just ashes when buried at Libingan

‘Duty free king,’ Cavite town mayor face syndicated estafa over SkyJet row MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – An airline entrepreneur has filed with the Department of Justice (DoJ) a syndicated estafa complaint against “duty free king” and Solar Entertainment Corp. vice chair William Tieng, Mayor Dhino Carlo Chua of Noveleta town in Cavite and nine others in connection with their “unfair takeover” of SkyJet Airlines in 2015.

The complaint was filed

by Aneceto A. Mendoza, founder and former chair of Magnum Air Inc., the company behind SkyJet which is dubbed as the country’s first boutique leisure airline.

Aside from Tieng and Chua, also named as respondents in the complaint were Tieng’s children Ronald, John Eric, William Irwin, Charlene, Mark Andrew, Margaret Ann and James Gregory; lawyer Brigido Theodore Sarmie nto; and associate George Ventayen.

In his complaint-affidavit, Mendoza accused the respondents of conspiring to deceive and defraud him of his shares in SkyJet without giving him just compensation. “...Respondents’ individual overt acts show a unity of design and purpose in deceiving and defrauding me of my shareholdings in SkyJet – the company I founded and built through tremendous sacrifice and effort – absolutely without paying me a single centavo,” Mendoza said.

“Indisputably, Respondents conspired and confederated with one another in defrauding me of my shareholdings in SkyJet,” he alleged.

It all started in November 2013 when Mendoza was informed by a friend that Chua was interested in SkyJet. At the time, Chua needed a popular or big ticket project to boost his image and chances for the 2016 mayoral election in Noveleta, the home of Sangley Point Air

Base, which was then being eyed as an alternative to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.

After their first meeting, Chua became aggressive in investing in SkyJet, while Mendoza appeared reluctant because he felt Chua had no knowledge about aviation.

At that time, SkyJet was estimated at PHP500 million over a five-year projection covering both physical and intangible assets. Chua then introduced Mendoza to his uncle, Tieng, who offered to acquire 50 percent stake for PHP100 million.

Tieng even caused the creation of a new company named Thunder Asia that would own the majority shares of SkyJet. Thunder Asia’s incorporators were Tieng’s children, including William Irwin, a former congressman representing the party-list group Buhay.

While Mendoza had no intention to sell his shares in SkyJet, he was later made to sign deeds of absolute sale for 60 percent and 20 percent in favor of Thunder Asia and Chua, respectively, but no actual payment was made. Under the agreements, Mendoza would remain as industrial partner and his shares will not be dilluted.

“Respondents William and Chua, in conspiracy with the other Respondents, deceitfully and falsely represented that I needed to supposedly sell my majority shareholdings in SkyJet as a ‘condition’ for their immediate infusion of substantial capital in SkyJet and for the immediate payment of my advances and receivables,” Mendoza explained.

“Moreover, to further induce me to supposedly sell my majority shareholdings in SkyJet, Respondents deceitfully represented that the supposed sale of my majority shareholdings was only for ‘show’ – not a true sale - as a ‘condition’ for

their immediate infusion of substantial capital in SkyJet and the immediate payment of my advances and receivables,” he added.

“Thus, the indicated consideration for the supposed sale of my 60% shareholdings in SkyJet is unbelievably and shockingly low price of PHP 1 million only to Thunder Air represented by Respondent Ronald Tieng, while the indicated consideration for the supposed sale of my (20%) interest in SkyJet to Respondent Chua is a ludicrously and unconscionably low amount of PHP300,000.00.”

After the deeds of sale were signed by Mendoza, Chua started bringing in his own people in the company.

While Mendoza remained as CEO, he was kept out of the loop and no longer involved in the company’s day-to-day operations. He also insistently followed up the payment for the 80 percent shares he supposedly sold to Tieng and Chua, but he was told the company was incurring more losses than profits.

In February 2015, Mendoza received a notice from the company that he was already removed from his post. His salary was cut off and was advised that he was no longer needed by the management.

“Respondents employed deceit when they falsely represented that they would immediately infuse substantial capital in SkyJet and pay my advances and receivables when I sign the purported two deeds of absolute sale of shares of stocks,” Mendoza pointed out.

He added: “While I was deceived and induced to sign the said purported deeds, Respondents never immediately infuse capital and pay my advances and receivables.”

Syndicated estafa is a non-bailable offense punishable by life imprisonment.

THE US ASIAN POST Friday - Thursday,

December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

Have a better holiday with your loved ones.

Send money in minutes1 with the WUÂŽ mobile app, at westernunion.com or from an agent location directly to qualifying bank accounts at over 40 banks in the Philippines.

MOBILE | ONLINE | AGENT LOCATION

1

Date available will be displayed on receipt for international transfers over $15. Service and funds availability depends on certain factors including the service selected, the selection of delayed delivery options, special terms applicable to each service, amount sent, destination country, currency availability, regulatory issues, consumer protection issues, identification requirements, delivery restrictions, agent location hours, and differences in time zones (collectively, "Restrictions"). ** For BPI, first time transactions will be credited to the account within 2 hours. Succeeding transactions will be credited in minutes. Western Union Financial Services Inc.,

NMLS #906983, IS LICENSED BY THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF BANKING AND FINANCE and licensed as a Money Transmitter by New York State Department of Financial Services. Š 2016 Western Union Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved.

3

4

Visit www.usasianpost.com

Arrival of BRP Andres Bonifacio, a symbol of PHL commitment to modernize its military

By Priam F. Nepomuceno

MANILA, Dec. 9 (PNA) – The arrival of the BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-15), the country’s third Hamilton-class cutter, is continuing proof of the country’s resolve and determination to upgrade the capabilities of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP).

“The Philippine Navy’s acquisition of BRP Andres Bonifacio is proof of our continuing firm resolve and determination to upgrade the capabilities of the Armed Forces... of course, courtesy of the United States of America,” Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said during the welcoming ceremony for the Filipino frigate at Pier 13, Manila South Harbor, on Friday.

The FF-15 is the USCGC Boutwell which was retired from US Coast Guard service last March 16 and handed to the PN last July 21.

Hamilton-class cutters have a gross tonnage of 3,250 tons, a length of 378 feet, beam of 43 feet, and draft of 15 feet.

Its propulsion systems consist of two diesel engines and two gas turbine engines, giving it a top speed of 29 knots and a crew of 88 officers and enlisted personnel.

The ship has a cruising range of 14,000 miles and has a sea and loiter time of 45 days.

“Cognizant of our real need for Philippine Navy (PN) assets, we thank the United States government for enabling the sale of this frigate to the Philippines under the Excess Defense Articles Program. We greatly anticipate the placement of Andres Bonifacio in duty status in the conduct of naval operations,” the DND chief stressed.

Lorenzana said he expects the BRP Andres Bonifacio, once painted naval grey, to be deployed in Sulu waters to help foil kidnapping and piracy incidents in the said seas.

“This ship will certainly be a valuable platform in the pursuit of the constitutional mandate of the AFP; this will strengthen the PN capabilities in raising the country’s security concerns in the protection of our territorial integrity, and maritime interest,” he added.

“We are a maritime country, our maritime territory is 20 times bigger than our land mass so its just right that we go into a program to upgrade our Navy. And, that will be my mission as Secretary of the National Defense for the next six years,” the DND chief stressed.

He added the BRP Andres Bonifacio’s acquisition will further boost the PN’s capabilities and make it more formidable in the coming years. “ The acquisition of this sea platform will help propel the PN. It’s Sail Plan 2020 for a stronger and more credible organization for the years to come. To the crew of Andres Bonifacio, I commend you for exemplary performance of duty and job well done,” Lorenzana concluded.

Palace maintains ‘wait-and-see’ stance of future of BPOs in PHL

By Jelly F. Musico

MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – Malacañang said on Monday that it is too early to speculate on the future of the American business process outsourcing (BPOs) in the Philippines under the leadership of US President-elect Donald Trump.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Martin Andanar made this reaction amid concerns that American BPOs might pull out of the Philippines following threats of ‘retribution’ by Trump against US companies that continue to outsource their operations and services.

“The statement of President-elect Trump on US companies that continue to outsource their operations and services is not a policy set in stone,” Andanar said in a press statement.

“We cannot speculate on the future of American BPOs in the Philippines until President-elect Trump takes his oath of office and spells out his policies,” he added.

Andanar said US President Barack Obama had similarly appealed to American BPOs to conduct their operations back in the US “but his call fell on deaf ears.”

He said American BPOs opted to stay in the Philippines because it is more viable to do business in the country.

“They would have less operating expenses. In the US, workers are paid per hour. In the Philippines, workers are paid per day,” Andanar said.

Andanar also the shift in the structure of the work force of the information technology-BPO sector in the country is another factor considered by the foreign BPOs to stay in the Philippines.

“It is expected that the sector will cater to more complicated requirements as the industry plans to climb the value chain from the traditional voice and IT services to animation, game development and healthcare information. We hope we can capitalize on this where the Philippines has a competitive advantage,” Andanar said.

“It is for this reason that the Duterte Administration included in its 10-Point Agenda; one, investment in human capital development, including match skills and training, and two, promotion of science, technology and the creative arts to enhance innovation and creative capacity,” he added.

The country’s IT-BPO sector had about 1.2 million employees as of 2015, expecting around 225,000 new jobs and USD25 billion revenue this year, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

THE US ASIAN POST

OPINION Lacson to De Lima: ‘Come back, don’t follow my example’ MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – Unlike himself, Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson believes that colleague Senator Leila de Lima, who is currently out of the country, will not try to escape as he did when he was charged with a double murder case in 2010.

“In jest I told her, ‘come back, don’t follow my example’. She said ‘I would really return’ because she wanted to face the cases filed against her,” Lacson told reporters in an interview in a mix of Filipino and English.

De Lima is currently in the United States to accept an award and to Germany to speak before the Annual Conference on Cultural Diplomacy.

Before leaving the country, De Lima expressed hope that her “brief absence” would provide relief to her detractors and critics. She assured that she will “surely return”.

Last Oct. 7, the Department of Justice (DOJ) issued an immigration lookout bulletin order (ILBO) against De Lima and five others allegedly involved in the proliferation of illegal drugs inside the New Bilibid Prison (NBP) in Muntinlupa City.

A lookout bulletin order is issued to persons to at least monitor the itineraries of their flight, travel, and/or whereabouts. These persons are allowed to travel provided they have permission from the justice department.

De Lima, a former justice secretary is facing four drug complaints filed by the Volunteers Against

Crime and Corruption (VACC), former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) deputy directors Reynaldo Esmeralda and Ruel Lasala, high-profile inmate Jaybee Sebastian, and the NBI, stemming from the senator’s alleged violation of Republic Act 9165 or the Dangerous Drugs Act. Lacson, however, said it was still her choice whether she wanted to stay abroad for the meantime.

DOJ on Saturday allowed Senator Leila de Lima to travel abroad since no hold departure has been issued by the court against her.

He pointed out that there was nothing wrong with De Lima leaving the country because she had permission from Senate President Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III to go on an official travel.

“I don’t see anything wrong with her leaving because there is no AW (arrest warrant) issued against her yet. There is no court order that says she has an HDO (hold departure order),” the senator said.

“When I left (the country), I didn’t have an AW either,” he added. “You cannot prevent a person from traveling because that’s a basic right.”

In 2010, Lacson was charged with double-murder in connection to the twin killings of publicist Salvador “Bubby” Dacer and his driver Emmanuel Corbito. The following year, the Supreme Court dismissed the motion for reconsideration filed by the Dacer family against Lacson for lack of merit.

Only a matter of time before ASG terrorists brought to justice – JTF Sulu commander

MANILA, Dec. 13 (PNA) – A ranking military official, involved in the ongoing focused military operations against the Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits, believes that it is only a matter of time before the terrorists are finally brought to justice.

Col. Jesus Manangquil, Joint Task Force Sulu commander, said their constant military pressure against the lawless band have forced the bandits to move constantly and free their hostages to expedite their movements.

The former was referring to Monday’s release of two Indonesian seafarers, part of the seven earlier kidnapped aboard the Tugboat Henry 00 as it was steaming off Simisa Sulu last June 22.

The released victims identified as Mohammad Nazir, 62 and Robin Piter, 32. The two were released by the ASG through the Indanan-Sulu based Moro National Liberation Front and were then brought to the house of former Sulu Vice-Governor Sulu Absakur Tan in Jolo at 11:30 a.m.

The two were then turned-over to Joint Task Force Sulu for custody, medical check-up and processing at 1:32 p.m. “(We are on a) sustained manhunt operations against the ASG. They have already felt the pressure of these relentless operations. We have gained so much knowledge about them and it’s just a matter of time that the force of the law will be meted upon

UN chief issues call for $1-B for emergency humanitarian funding UNITED NATIONS, Dec. 12 (PNA/Xinhua) – UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon is scheduled to open the annual pledging conference for the Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) on Tuesday morning at UN Headquarters in New York, UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric told reporters here on Monday.

Since it was established in 2006, CERF’s annual funding target of YSD450 million have remained

unchanged, even as global humanitarian needs have quadrupled since then, he said.

With nearly 130 million people in need of assistance today, the secretary-general will call for an increase of the Fund’s annual target to 1 billion U.S. dollars by 2018, he said.

The event will be chaired by Under-Secretary-General and Emergency Relief Coordinator Stephen O’Brien, he added.

Duterte urges TOYM awardees to help him fight corruption MANLA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday urged the Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) of 2016 to support his fight against corruption.

“Our nation is in a crucial period of introducing concrete and meaningful change. I need your support now more than ever so that we can collectively overcome the ills of illegal drugs, criminality and corruption that has plagued our nation for so long,” President Duterte said in his speech during the awarding ceremonies held at the Rizal Hall of the Malacanang Palace.

The President encouraged the people to report corrupt government officials by using Malacanang’s complaint hotline 8888.

“You can dial the number and just state out your statement or your complaint without even mentioning your name. And if you are maybe a little bit timid or afraid, or outright – you don’t want trouble – maybe you can just buy a new SIM right away after making the call and I will take it from there,” the President said. The President said corruption has really pulled the country down “without attributing it to any particular administration.”

“Let me just give you an analogy of something like an airplane running at full speed on the runway for so many years without really lifting and that is what the Philippines is,” the President said.

“I’m just a ‘probinsiyano.’ I come from a corner in Mindanao but I tried to just envision something for my country during this administration. I will really finish this,” he added, referring to his fight against corruption.

The President, on the other hand, gave the government agencies one month to release documents of the projects they want to implement to prevent corruption.

“If you cannot release it in one month then let me know so that I would not suspect that you practically

sat on the papers,” he said.

President Duterte said he gave 92 officials from the regulatory bodies the option of facing charges or to resign.

“You resign for you have become the pariah of this government and do not expect me to be courteous even to you when I see you there out,” he said.

President Duterte lauded the Junior Chamber International (JCI) for its effective and exemplary leadership which are best demonstrated by the 2016 TOYM awardees.

“By committing to do our part in nation-building and by even simply doing the things that is expected of us every day, we can immensely contribute to the cultivation of a far more better and more secure future for ourselves, our families and our communities,” he said.

The 2016 TOYM awardees include: Earl Martin S. Valencia, honoree for Entrepreneurship; Jhett D. Tolentino (Arts & Theatre); Saturnino H. Tiamson (Arts & Music); Geraldine Z. Racaza (Medicine); Ronivin G. Pagtakhan (Youth Leadership); Richard N. Maullil (Marine Science Conservation); Richard Javad F. Heydarian (Social Science); Randy H. Halasan (Education); Ryan C. Guinaran (Indigenous People Advocacy); and, Clarissa Isabelle L. Delgado (Community Service).

President Duterte was accompanied by the JCI Foundation directors, led by chairman Manny V. Pangilinan, in the handing of awards to the 10 TOYM of 2016.

“As remarkable young men and women, I encourage you to share the responsibility of leading and lifting the Philippines out of the quagmire of complacency by fostering a culture of innovation and excellence that you epitomize,” the President said.

“Together, let us work hand in hand to secure the lives of our people, give them the best quality of life that can rightfully be deserved,” he added.

THE US ASIAN POST Friday - Thursday,

December 16 - 22, 2016

ORANGE COUNTY

Visit www.usasianpost.com

5

Steve Harvey as host of Miss U pageant is ‘very much welcome’ to Duterte, says DOT

By Jelly F. Musico

MANILA, Dec. 9 (PNA) -- Contrary to his initial reaction, Pres. Rodrigo Duterte is “very much” open to having Steve Harvey as host of the Miss Universe pageant that the Philippines will host next month, a Department of Tourism official said on Friday. ”I think he’s just kidding,” DOT Undersecretary Katherine de Castro said in a press briefing in Malacanang when asked if Pres. Duterte is still against Harvey as host of the prestigious beauty pageant.

“Because his reaction was ‘What? Steve Harvey is the one hosting it? He’s a disaster.’ But he laughed after. So I said, ‘Sir, we really need Steve Harvey.’

He said, ‘No, I’m very much welcome to have him here in the Philippines,” De Castro explained.

De Castro said the DOT has in fact coordinating with Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Martin Andanar

for a possible special participation of President Duterte during the Miss Universe pageant coronation night on Jan. 30. ”We are preparing a ‘pakulo’ (gimmick) between the President and Steve Harvey. So you watch out for that. And the Miss Universe Organization was very much open to that, whatever it is that we are planning to do with the President and Steve Harvey,” she said.

Harvey, who is under a five-year contract as host of Miss Universe Pageant, committed a major blunder at the Miss Universe 2015 coronation night when he mistakenly announced Miss Colombia as the winner instead of Pia Wurtzbach of the Philippines.

De Castro announced that all the Miss Universe candidates will pay a courtesy call to President Duterte in Malacanang on January 23. She said the DOT has reserved seats for President Duterte during

the pageant coronation night at the MOA Arena in Pasay City. ”I think the Miss Universe Organization is very much welcome to have him in the show,” De Castro said.

When asked if the President can be chosen as one of the judges, De Castro replied: “Apparently, it’s a rule for Miss U Organization not to have a judge from the host country but I think if it’s the President, that’s gonna be another, you know, I think they will make an exception to the rule.” De Castro said her team will have a courtesy call on Monday with the President to inform him about the Miss Universe organizers’ proposal. ”I think his men are aware that we would like him to be part of you know, to judge it or just even to watch it. But he has not yet given us a concrete answer altogether. We have reserved a VIP section for the President,” she said.

More women in tourism but fewer in executive positions: TIEZA MANILA, Dec. 11 (PNA) – Women make up between 60 to 70 percent of workers in the tourism industry according to the International Labor Organization (ILO), however, more men still occupy executive positions.

Lawyer Shangrila Quezon said that although this was common in almost any other occupation, the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) are hoping to slowly change this scenario.

Data from TIEZA show that as of June 2016, it has a total workforce of 1,037 employees which is made

up of 532 (51 percent) male employees and 505 (49 percent) female.

Quezon said that this figure did not immediately mean that there was a bias towards employing men versus women stating that equal opportunity should be maintained between both genders. The same data from TIEZA showed that more men occupy positions in the top officials/executive levels with at least 80 percent of its workforce while women occupy the remaining 20 percent in the same positions.

“It’s like this in almost any occupation,” Shangrila said in a recent Women in

Community-Based Tourism Forum held in the Diamond Hotel this week.

In the middle managers level, however, there are more women that occupy positions with 52.8 percent compared to men with only 47.2 percent.

“Men mostly occupy first level and top level, but women mostly occupy the middle level,” Quezon said noting that this was a welcome development.

“What we must work on is avoiding the objectification of women in the workforce,” she added referring to one of the main gender issues in the tourism industry.

Selfie of the beauties: 2016 Miss Universe candidates pose for a selfie with reigning Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach during the pageant’s kick-off party on Saturday evening (Dec. 10, 2016) at the Conrad Hotel, Mall of Asia in Pasay City.(PNA photo by Avito C.Dalan)

Pia Wurtzbach donates Miss Universe 2015 items to Caritas Manila sale

By Ferdinand G. Patinio

MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – Bags, shoes and gowns of Miss Universe 2015 Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach are among the items to be sold at the two-day 1st Celebrity and Friends Pre-loved Luxury Brands Sale of Caritas Manila in Makati City.

The third Miss Universe from the Philippines met Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle at the archbishop’s residence at the Arzobispado de Manila in Intramuros, Manila Monday morning to personally inform him about the donations to the bazaar to be held at Glorietta 5 Atrium, Ayala Center, Makati City set on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Tagle expressed gratitude to Wurtzbach for supporting the cause that aims to help 5,000 scholars around the country under the Youth Servant Leadership & Education Program

Nurturing hard work and passion into real possibilities.

It’s the people who empower and support you. The ones who say, “yes, you can do that”. And inspire you to take the first step. Possible is about achieving your dreams with small accomplishments.

At U.S. Bank, we’re here to support your dreams. We offer competitive products and services that can help you make it possible. Because when you have people who are confident in you, the impossible suddenly becomes, well, possible.

Find your possible at a U.S. Bank branch, call 800.825.BANK (2265), or visit usbank.com/possible

Member FDIC. ©2016 U.S. Bank 160547 11/16 “World’s Most Ethical Companies” and “Ethisphere” names and marks are registered trademarks of Ethisphere LLC.

(YSLEP) of the social action arm of the Archdiocese Manila.

“We are happy that a person like you and other celebrities, if we might use that word, are offering whatever you could to support especially the young people in need of education.

Thank you very much for your support of this program YSLEP program of the Caritas Manila,” said the cardinal, who gave the statuesque Filipina beauty queen a gift including a rosary from Pope Francis.

He added, “Miss Pia, you are towering figure we look up to you. We welcome you to the residence of the Archdiocese of Manila. We call it residencia.

Very simple residence.

We are here for one purpose and it is to serve our brothers and sisters with no other motivation but love caritas.”

For her part, Wurtzbach also thanked the head of the

Archdiocese of Manila for welcoming her at his residence and urged the faithful to give but not expect anything in return. “So magbigayan po tayo na walang hinihiling na kapalit hindi po ba. Maraming Salamat sa pag-imbita sa akin dito.

And I hope we could work together for Caritas International in the future, even after Miss Universe, right,” said the beauty queen, who is a devout Roman Catholic.

Aside from these items, Wurtzbach is also set to turnover the proceeds of an event that they hosted recently to the Caritas Manila. On the other hand, Fr. Anton Pascual, executive director of Caritas Manila urged the public to support the celebrity bazaar, where items such as designer clothes, shoes, accessories and bags, and toys were previously owned by various celebrities are being sold at up to 80% off.

6

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

THE US ASIAN POST

PhilHealth conducts dengue awareness forum MANILA, Dec. 9 (PNA) – The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), in collaboration with Sanofi Pasteur, recently conducted a dengue awareness forum for PhilHealth employees at the head office in Pasig City.

The forum, “Kagat ng Lamok, Nakakatepok!“ (mosquito bites can be deadly), which aimed to provide comprehensive information on dengue fever, was attended by 30 employees from different departments in the head office.

In her presentation, Dr. Miel Peñalosa, medical scientific liaison of Sanofi Pas-

teur, emphasized the importance of early diagnosis and management of the disease.

Peñalosa also underscored vaccination as a form of safe, effective and affordable means for dengue control, specifically for ages 9 to 45.

Dengue, a viral infection transmitted by the bite of an infected female Aedes mosquito, has four distinct serotypes -- DEN 1, DEN 2, DEN 3 and DEN 4. Symptoms appear in three to 14 days after the infective bite.

The flu-like illness affects infants, young children and adults.

There is no specific dengue therapeutics and it requires proper management.

Prevention is currently limited to vector control measures.

The current dengue vaccine represents a major advance in the control of the disease, Peñalosa said, adding that the World Health Organization (WHO) has cited that vaccination actually helps and supports the prevention of the spread of dengue cases.

In the same forum, Sanofi Pasteur offered PhilHealth employees a discounted price for the dengue vaccine.

South Cotabato health officials raise alert level as dengue kills 24 KORONADAL CITY, Dec. 13 (PNA) – Health officials in South Cotabato have raised an alert level on dengue cases as the number hits more than 5,000 this year, or more than 100 percent higher as compared from January to November last year.

Dr. Rogelio Aturdido, South Cotabato provincial health chief, said 24 patients have died as of Dec. 12 due to dengue, a preventable disease should everybody cooperates.

Data from the South Cotabato provincial Epidemi-

ology and Surveillance Unit (PESO) showed that Koronadal City has the highest number of fatality due to dengue with six, followed by Tupi which has five deaths.

The upland towns of Polomolok and Surallah have four each while two were reported killed in Banga town.

In the towns of Tantangan, Norala and Lake Sebu have one fatality each.

Aturdido said since January to Dec. 13, a total of 5,719 dengue cases were reported in both public and private hospitals in the province. The figure was

100.3 higher as compared to data last year which has only about 2,600 cases.

Aturdido told reporters that public support and participation in the general efforts of containing dengue cases is as important as life.

He said public participation is so simple that all they need is to clean their surroundings as well as inside homes and residential areas.

Aturdido said water containers should be cleaned, canals and passages ways should be cleared of stagnant waters.

Gift-giving from Mandaluyong City govt: An elderly woman gets her bag of goodies from Mandaluyong City government for the annual Christmas gift-giving event, dubbed as “Pamaskong Handog 2016,” which allots 60,000 bags of goodies for the resident’s of Mandaluyong City, on Saturday (Dec. 10, 2016). (PNA photo by JOey O. Razon)

Solon backs approval of cigarette tax bill MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – House ways and means committee chair Dakila Cua on Monday defended the proposed measure that seeks to retain the two-tier excise tax system on tobaccos, describing it as a balancing act meant to protect the welfare of tobacco farmers, promote public health, and increase government revenue.

In an interview, Cua said House Bill No. 4144, which seeks to amend Republic Act No. 10351 or the Sin Tax Reform Law by introducing a two-tier approach instead of a unitary excise tax rate, will help the tobacco farming industry while generating

more revenues for the current administration.

The Quirino lawmaker also said higher excise tax rates will also help curb smoking as it lessens the number of smokers, noting that at least 4.5 million people stopped smoking after the passage of Sin Tax Law. “Our goal here is to strike a balance wherein the livelihood of tobacco farmers will thrive, the prevalence of smoking will be reduced, and government revenue will increase,” Cua said.

Under the bill, the first tax tier is pegged at Php32 per pack for low-priced cigarettes, and the second at

OU CAN’T GO WRONG ...Y RE MO D AN , MS FIR LAW , RS CA , OD FO , ESTYLE, POP CULTURE

NEWS, INFORMATION, LIF

Php36 per pack for highpriced cigarettes. It also seeks an annual increase of 5 percent on these rates.

The current law sets the sin tax on tobacco at Php30 per pack in 2017, with an annual 4 percent adjustment afterwards.

HB 4144 is expected to advance third and final reading this week at the House of Representatives.

WITH WEEKEND BALITA.

rn and Northern o American communities in Southe pin Fili for n atio rm info and s new of ertising or editorial a periodical that provides main source ng your smart phone or tablet. For adv usi , ine onl AP Under Balita Media, Inc., Weekend is US ess acc can you A since 1992. For your convenience, 06.

California as well as other parts of US Wilson Ave. Suite 110 Glendale CA 912 E. 520 at us t visi or , 503 2.4 .55 818 t placement, you can contac

HHNHQG : .

TA LI A B D EN K EE W F O N IO IT ED L A IT IG D E CATCH TH %$/,7$ : : : % $ / , 7 $ & 2 0

THE US ASIAN POST Friday - Thursday,

December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

Health dept hopes unitary tax rates for cigarettes would prevail MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday expressed optimism that the unitary tax rate for cigarettes would prevail amid moves of the House of Representatives to amend the Sin Tax Law. In a media forum held at the Selah Garden Suites in Park Avenue, Pasay City, DOH spokesman, Dr. Eric Tayag, said they hope that the unitary tax rate for cigarettes would not be amended.

The unitary tax rate is set to take effect by Jan. 1, 2017 under Republic Act (RA) 10351. Lawmakers are however pushing for a twotiered tax rate under House Bill 4144 as an amendment to the act.

“We don’t know the consequences yet but the DOH is still hoping that we will

still have a unitary tax rate,” Tayag said. “Our estimates in getting continued revenue from sin tax were based on the premise that, by 2017, we have a unitary tax rate, and not one that has two tiers.”

Under the unitary tax rate, 80 percent of the sin tax would go to the DOH, and 20 percent to tobacco-growing provinces to mitigate economic losses. Of the 80 percent that would go to the health department, a big portion would go to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to provide financial risk protection or coverage to the poorest of the poor affected with illnesses. The rest would go to the DOH Health Facility Enhancement Program (HFEP) and medical assistance program.

Tayag further noted that the two-tiered sin tax rate could water down the Sin Tax Law. “If we have a two-tiered tax rate, there can be misclassifications... They can get a lower excise tax depending on the classification.

But if it is unitary, there is no more classification,” he said, adding that they are already closely coordinating with the Department of Finance (DOF) regarding the potential impact of House Bill 4144.

The bill was filed last Oct. 19, just before session went on break on October 21. It was referred to the House committee on ways and means on Nov. 7 when the session resumed. The first committee hearing on the bill was held on Nov. 28 and it was approved without

amendment during the second hearing on Dec. 5 and submitted to the House committee on rules on the same day. Congressmen are set to vote on House Bill 4144 on the third and final reading before they go on a Christmas break on Wednesday The Senate however said it is not in a hurry to take up the measure that seeks to adopt the two-tiered sin tax structure.

Health advocates have opposed the bill, saying it only protects the interest of the tobacco industry, which they said would only produce cheaper cigarettes to avoid the higher tax.

They said that blocking the unitary tax system would perpetuate the affordability of cigarettes in the Philippines to the detriment of public health.

Health dept hopes unitary tax rates for cigarettes would prevail MANILA, Dec. 12 (PNA) – The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday expressed optimism that the unitary tax rate for cigarettes would prevail amid moves of the House of Representatives to amend the Sin Tax Law. In a media forum held at the Selah Garden Suites in Park Avenue, Pasay City, DOH spokesman, Dr. Eric Tayag, said they hope that the unitary tax rate for cigarettes would not be amended. The unitary tax rate is set to take effect by Jan. 1, 2017 under Republic Act (RA) 10351. Lawmakers are however pushing for a twotiered tax rate under House Bill 4144 as an amendment to the act.

“We don’t know the consequences yet but the DOH

is still hoping that we will still have a unitary tax rate,” Tayag said. “Our estimates in getting continued revenue from sin tax were based on the premise that, by 2017, we have a unitary tax rate, and not one that has two tiers.”

Under the unitary tax rate, 80 percent of the sin tax would go to the DOH, and 20 percent to tobacco-growing provinces to mitigate economic losses. Of the 80 percent that would go to the health department, a big portion would go to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) to provide financial risk protection or coverage to the poorest of the poor affected with illnesses. The rest would go to the DOH Health Facili-

ty Enhancement Program (HFEP) and medical assistance program.

Tayag further noted that the two-tiered sin tax rate could water down the Sin Tax Law. “If we have a twotiered tax rate, there can be misclassifications... They can get a lower excise tax depending on the classification.

But if it is unitary, there is no more classification,” he said, adding that they are already closely coordinating with the Department of Finance (DOF) regarding the potential impact of House Bill 4144.

The bill was filed last Oct. 19, just before session went on break on October 21. It was referred to the House committee on ways and means on Nov. 7 when

the session resumed. The first committee hearing on the bill was held on Nov. 28 and it was approved without amendment during the second hearing on Dec. 5 and submitted to the House committee on rules on the same day. Congressmen are set to vote on House Bill 4144 on the third and final reading before they go on a Christmas break on Wednesday The Senate however said it is not in a hurry to take up the measure that seeks to adopt the two-tiered sin tax structure.

Health advocates have opposed the bill, saying it only protects the interest of the tobacco industry, which they said would only produce cheaper cigarettes to avoid the higher tax.

7

DOH sets anti-dengue vaccination for nine-year-olds in Cebu in February CEBU CITY, Dec. 12 (PNA) – The Department of Health (DOH) will implement the anti-dengue vaccination on all nine-year-olds in Cebu by February 2017, an official said Monday.

Dr. Jaime Bernadas, DOH 7 director, said preparation, including information and education, is ongoing.

“So our target in the full implementation is February or early March,” Bernadas said.

“We have limited vaccines, so we have limited target, which is the most vulnerable age, the main age when dengue incidents are high,” Bernadas said.

He said they are focusing on nine-year-old schoolchildren and they are coordinating with the Department of Education (DepEd) and local government units (LGUs).

“It’s always with the LGUs and DepEd,” Bernadas said.

Cebu City Rep. Del Mar said he urged DOH Secretary Paulyn Jean Ubial during the budget deliberation in the House of Representative to resume the anti-dengue vaccination in Region 7.

Del Mar said anti-dengue vaccination was done already in three areas in the country and Region 7 was to be next when questions were raised on the vaccine.

“This is why the vaccination was suspended and the DOH verified and researched. Now that all issues were settled, it is time to resume it,” Del Mar said.

Premature girl babies more likely to be short adults: New Zealand-Swedish study WELLINGTON, Dec. 12 (PNA/Xinhua) – Baby girls born very premature could be almost three times more likely to grow into very short adults than those born at term, according to a study by New Zealand and Swedish researchers out Monday.

The study also found women born very premature - before 32 weeks - were 2.3 centimeters shorter on average as adults than their sisters born at term, or 37 to 41 weeks.

“We were a little surprised by the results,” said lead author Dr Jose Derraik, of Auckland University’s Liggins Institute.

“There is some evidence that babies who were born premature tend to be shorter in childhood, but they usually catch up with those born at term in late adolescence,” Derraik said in a statement.

“But our study shows that women who were born very preterm fail to reach the stature you’d expect based on their parents’ and siblings’ heights.”

The study with Uppsala University in Sweden was the latest collaboration to analyze data from more than 200,000 Swedish women collected from 1991 to 2008.

Researchers were yet to establish why premature birth should lead to shorter adult stature.

“It may be related to the fact that premature babies are often quite thin at birth,” said Derraik.

A previous Liggins Institute study showed that small size at birth was associated with changes in the way growth hormone worked in the body, which could eventually reduce adult height.

8

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

THE US ASIAN POST

UTREACH

Fil-Am, other parishioners of Church of the Good Shepherd of Beverly Hills celebrate Simbang Gabi 2016 The Filipino-American & Ethnic Parishioners of the Church of the Good Shepherd of Beverly Hills will celebrate “Simbang Gabi 2016” on December 19, 2016, Monday, at 7 p.m.

“Simbang Gabi “ is a Filipino Pre-Christmas Mass tradition which will be held for the 4th time together with other parishioners of the parish community.

Everyone is invited to come and celebrate the special advent mass in the parish that will coincide with the observance of the tradition by the Filipino

Ministry of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles.

The theme of this year’s Simbang Gabi is “Jesus make us generous dispensers of your divine mercy.”

Translated in Pilipino, it means “Hesus gawin mo kaming masaganang daluyan ng iyong banal na awa.”

Most Reverend Bishop Oscar A. Solis, the first Filipino Bishop in the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and currently the Head of the San Pedro Pastoral Region, will be the main celebrant.

The church pastor, Fr. Ed

Benioff and other Filipino priests will concelebrate with the bishop. Philippine Consul General Adelio Angelito Cruz will honor the parishioners with his presence.

The Philippine Chamber Singers of Los Angeles will be the Choir for the festive occasion.

A catered and pot-luck reception follows after the mass at the Church Hall.

The Church of the Good Shepherd is located at 505 N. Bedford Drive corner Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Starting Christmas day, Balikbayan boxes worth Php150,000 exempted from taxes MANILA, Dec. 10 (PNA) – Balikbayan boxes worth Php150,000 sent by Filipinos working and living abroad will be exempted from taxes starting Dec. 25, Christmas Day. This after the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the Department of Finance (DOF) signed Customs Administrative Order (CAO) 05-2016, which concerns the consolidated shipment of said boxes.

The CAO 05-2016 serves as the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) on Section 800 (g) of the Customs and Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). “It covers the sending of balikbayan boxes by Qualified Filipinos While Abroad (QFWA)

to their families and relatives, which shall be exempt from the payment of duties and taxes, up to three times and shall not exceed Php150,000.00 in a calendar year,” said Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon in a statement. He noted that balikbayan boxes brought in through means other than consolidated shipments shall be covered by a different CAO. “This CAO states that only qualified Filipinos abroad may avail of duty and tax free privileges on balikbayan boxes containing personal effects and households goods,” Faeldon added.

Under the CMTA, QFWA are the following: (1) holders of valid pass-

ports issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) and certified by Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) or Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) for overseas employment purposes regardless of profession; (2) non-resident Filipinos who have established permanent residency abroad but retained their Filipino citizenship; and, (3) resident Filipino citizens who temporarily stay abroad (may include holders of student visa, investors’ visa, tourist visa, and similar visas which allow them to establish temporary stay abroad).

STEM CELL THERAPY The New Technology

Stem Cell Therapy is a breakthrough Non-Invasive, Non-Surgical option for people suffering from a multitude of conditions such as: • Erectile • Diabetes Type II Dysfunction • Alzheimer’s • Auto-Immune Disease Disorders • Orthopedic • Rheumatoid Conditions Arthritis

Non-Invasive, Non-surgical Option for a Multitude of Conditions

www.RefreshLA.com 818-956-1141

PAL now flies PHL-LAX daily: Philippine Airlines started their second daily non-stop service from Los Angeles to Manila on December 8, utilizing the B777-300ER. The LAX Sales Team served cake and soda at the gate, to the delight of departing passengers on PR113. The flight departed with almost a full load, a good start.

Philippine Airlines flies non-stop from Los-Angeles to Manila twice daily and from Los Angeles to Cebu thrice weekly. The PAL LAX Sales Team included (from left) Junerick Marinas, Maricel Wall, Ma. Theresa Garces-Area Manager, Jing Hernando, Ricky Panis, and Mitty Torres.

Repeal of ACA will harm children and families in unprecedented ways Urban Institute report shows ACA repeal would increase ranks of California uninsured by nearly 5 million LOS ANGELES, CA – The Urban Institute released a new report that looks at the implications of a partial repeal of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and makes clear what is at stake for California children and families. If Congress moves forward with its intent to repeal the ACA without an immediate, responsible, and sustainable replacement, the number of uninsured children would more than double, from 4% to 9% nationwide, and the health of millions of Americans would be in jeopardy.

Congressional leaders have announced that their first order of business in the new Congress is to pass a reconciliation bill modeled after the 2015 reconciliation bill that repeals the ACA without a replacement plan. In California, Congress’ inability to negotiate an agreement on a replacement of the ACA increases the vulnerability of programs like Medi-Cal that provide coverage to

more than half of all California children. According to the report, nearly five million people would lose coverage, and California would lose $160 billion in federal funding over a tenyear period.

“Our elected leaders in Washington have an obligation to put forth polices that are in the best interest of American children and families. Any action on the ACA should put children above politics and protect the quality and affordable coverage available to millions of children and families,” said Mayra E. Alvarez, President, The Children’s Partnership.

Repeal of the ACA could also create chaos in California’s health care system and wreak havoc on the state budget. The loss of federal funding to meet the health needs of California residents would leave many with fewer health care options, threatening their well-being and their ability to contribute in school, to their workplaces and communities. ”Children are our most valuable national resource, literally our future.

Healthy children do better in school and in life. At a time when health coverage

for children is at a record high, we should be looking to finish the job. Instead our nation’s newly elected leaders appear to moving in the opposite direction.

Any repeal of current coverage and protections must not occur until it can be demonstrated that no child would be worse off for any period of time.” stated Alison Buist, Child Health Director at the Children’s Defense Fund.

“California has made incredible progress in ensuring that our children and families have access to health care. We can’t afford to go backwards and risk the loss of coverage for half a million kids in our state,” says Kelly Hardy, Senior Managing Director of Health Policy at Children Now. The ACA is working for millions of children and families. Nationally, over 95 percent of children are covered with quality, affordable health coverage because of expansions in coverage made possible through health insurance marketplaces and the expansion of Medicaid and CHIP. To read the full analysis visit: http://www.urban.org/ sites/default/files/publica-

More Asian American voters to receive language assistance in elections LOS ANGELES - The U.S. Census Bureau released the new official list of jurisdictions that are required to provide bilingual voting assistance under Section 203 of the federal Voting Rights Act. A review of the list by the Asian Americans Advancing Justice affiliation (Advancing Justice) reveals that Section 203 now covers 45 Asian language groups located in 27 counties, boroughs, census areas or cities.

This includes six new Asian language groups that have been added to Section 203 coverage since the previous list was released in 2011.

“Section 203 breaks down language barriers by allowing voters to understand and participate in the election system, but proper implementation is critical its success,” said Terry Ao Minnis, director of census and voting programs at Advancing Justice | AAJC. “Advanc-

ing Justice will be working with community groups and election officials to ensure that Section 203-covered jurisdictions provide robust language assistance to limited English-speaking voters.”

“The addition of counties covered for Asian languages in California, Massachusetts, Texas, and Virginia reflects the growth of Asian American communities in various sections of the United States,” said Deanna Kitamura, voting rights project director at Advancing Justice-LA. “However, we are disappointed in the loss of coverage for five language groups: Hindi, Japanese, and Thai in Los Angeles County, Japanese in Honolulu County, and Filipino in Maui County. Many voters in these areas have relied on language assistance for years. We have raised concerns about the loss of languages with the election official in Los Angeles and

will be working with local groups to assess language access needs and advocate for voluntary coverage where warranted.” Section 203 requires jurisdictions to provide language assistance if the number of eligible voters qualifying for such assistance meets certain threshold tests.

Based on American Community Survey data, the Census Bureau determines those thresholds through an ongoing and in-depth survey that it sends to households to collect detailed data on the American population.

Language assistance must be provided both before and on Election Day. Language assistance covers a multitude of areas including translated written materials, such as sample ballots, ballots and signage, bilingual assistance at poll sites, and publicity of the availability of language assistance to the covered language community.

THE US ASIAN POST Friday - Thursday,

December 16 - 22, 2016

J

Visit www.usasianpost.com

9

B MARKET

For adver tising, call (818) 552-4503 ext 402

Wanted Must have experience.

GET RESULTS!

WANTED

VISAYAN INTERPRETER PERSONAL ASSISTANT DRIVER GARDENER

323-661-6875 or leave a clear message

PUENTE HILLS MAZDA

WE’RE

email: adver tising@balita.com

West Silverlake, Los Feliz area Call 8 am to 12 nn and 6pm to 8pm

Please call (818) 298-5525

ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY!

-RN/LVN/Psych Techs -Massage Therapist (part-time) -DSP/ Caregiver/ CNA 2ႈFH DVVLVWDQW -CCF (ARF/ RCFE) $GPLQLVWUDWRU

•

GARDENER/HANDYMAN

Balita

Now Hiring for:

Fax (818) 550-7635

Part-Time

CAREGIVERS CAREGIVER Live-in caregiver for board and care. Call Doug (562)688- 6820.

•

HIRING

Filipino Sales Consultant - Good income opportunity -

Please call (626) 964-4900 or email nlazarevic@rhmazda.com

LAX Airport Area, North Hills Area, West Covina Area, San Diego Area

CAREGIVERS and RELIEVERS NEEDED! Irvine Cottages Memory Care s hiring caregivers offering excellent pay, sick leave and vacation! We are looking for singles and couples to work full time.

Contact Alex Valle 949-533-1136 or Gina Tizon 949-633-1595

Please call 626-926-7186 or 714-519-8997 for inquiries.

Or email resume to: gandres2@aol.com

CLASSIFIEDS TEL.: (818) 552-4503 ext 402

•

Fax: (818) 550-7635

•

MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED

MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST FOREVER.

Discover the

new fix.... right at your

finger tips!

le

Sty

Ent erta inm ent

PROFESSIONAL PHOTOJOURNALISM STYLE PHOTO COVERAGE. BLACK AND WHITE AND COLOR.

GROUPONE PHOTOGRAPHY 909.610.5847

Ne ws

ics m no he tc Ki

‡ WHGGLQJV ‡ &RPPXQLW\ (YHQWV ‡ %LUWKGD\ 3DUWLHV ‡ 5HXQLRQ ‡ $QQLYHUVDULHV ‡ 'HEXW ‡ $VVRFLDWLRQ 3DUWLHV ‡ %DSWLVPDO ‡ )XQHUDO ‡ 6OLGHVKRZV ‡ 3KRWR 5HVWRUDWLRQ

GURXSRQH #JPDLO FRP

T H E

.com

PRAYERS PRAYER to the BLESSED VIRGIN

Outr

s es sin Bu

Culture

n er od M

ng vi Li

each

(Never known to fail)

2K PRVW EHDXWLIXO ÀRZHU RI 0W &DUPHO IUXLW ZLQH VSOHQGRU RI +HDYHQ %OHVVHG Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh 6WDU RI WKH 6HD +HOS PH DQG VKRZ PH KHUH \RX DUH P\ 0RWKHU 2K +RO\ 0DU\ 0RWKHU RI *RG 4XHHQ RI +HDYHQ DQG (DUWK , KXPEO\ EHVHHFK \RX IURP WKH bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity. (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for XV ZKR KDYH UHFRXUVH WR 7KHH WLPHV +RO\ 0DU\ , SODFH WKLV SUD\HU LQ \RXU hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.

Grateful Thanks.- KAREN

PRAYERS PRAYER to the BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail)

www.USAsianPost.com for Asian Americans Follow us on:

Brought to you by BALITA MEDIA INC

2K PRVW EHDXWLIXO ÀRZHU RI 0W &DUPHO IUXLW ZLQH VSOHQGRU RI +HDYHQ %OHVVHG Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh 6WDU RI WKH 6HD +HOS PH DQG VKRZ PH KHUH \RX DUH P\ 0RWKHU 2K +RO\ 0DU\ 0RWKHU RI *RG 4XHHQ RI +HDYHQ DQG (DUWK , KXPEO\ EHVHHFK \RX IURP WKH bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity. (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for XV ZKR KDYH UHFRXUVH WR 7KHH WLPHV +RO\ 0DU\ , SODFH WKLV SUD\HU LQ \RXU hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you.

Grateful Thanks.- JANET

10

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

ENTERT

INMENT

Kaye Abad tied the knot with Paul Jake Castillo in Cebu Actress Kaye Abad tied the knot with her fiance, former “PBB” housemate Paul Jake Castillo, in a wedding ceremony held in Cebu Friday.

The two got engaged last May. The former “Tabing Ilog” star wore a Francis Libiran gown on her special day, held at the San Pedro Calungsod Chapel.

The ceremony was attended by the couple’s family and close friends.

Spotted were actor Patrick Garcia and his wife as well as actresses Kitkat, Nikki Valdez, Camille Prats and Sue Ramirez, former “PBB” housemate Vickie Rushton, and comedian Pooh.

Abad and Castillo admitted their relationship in April 2014.

In a previous interview, Castillo admitted that they are rushing to get married because they want to have a baby soon. (MNS)

Kaye Abad

Piolo Pascual’s star shines ever brightly At 39, Piolo Pascual is still among the country’s busiest stars.

He is set to star in the film “Once In A Lifetime” with Yen Santos and Raikko Mateo. Helmed by acclaimed director Dondon Santos, some of the film’s pivotal scenes were shot in New Zealand.

“Na-delay lang kami ng konti but hopefully matapos na namin siya para maipalabas na next year,” Piolo shared in an interview.

He is also waiting for the powers-that-be to give his teleserye with Toni Gonzaga-Soriano the greenlight.

The series, “Written In The Stars” was put on hold after Toni got pregnant.

Getting a substitute for Toni, who has since given birth to a baby boy, is out of the question. “I actually messaged her,” Piolo intimated.

“Sabi ko ‘If I were to do a soap, I really want to do it with you.’ Sabi naman niya she is ready to work byJanuary or February. Sabi

Piolo Pascual

niya ibabalik niya lang ’yung katawan niya.”

Given his success, many want to see Piolo finally settle down. However, the singer is taking his time.

“I’m just really grateful sa blessings na nangyayari sa buhay ko and I’ve come to the point na I don’t look for it anymore. As much as I don’t have time for it, I just want to enjoy life.

I still have so many things I want to do so if it comes, it comes but I do hope it comes

soon,” he said.

Piolo hopes his 19-yearold son Iñigo, who is in a relationship with Girl Trends member Kelley Day, would not rush into marriage himself.

“Sana ’wag naman pero…

He has a girlfriend already and hindi natin mapipigilan ang bugso ng damdamin ng mga bata. Kaya sinasabi ko nalang na just be practical and be wise with all your decisions kasi ang isang pagkakamali, pwedeng maglead sa panghabang-buhay na pagsisihan, so just be wise and learn from other people’s mistakes and always strive to be better.”

One of the more health-conscious celebs around, Piolo wants to date someone who is also into sports. “Ideally, yeah. I remember before, kapag meron akong nagiging girlfriend, it’s either I buy her a bike or I invite her to run because it’s my regular activity and I want it na we could do things together,” he said. (MNS)

Cherry Pie questions proposed revival of death penalty Cherry Pie Picache took to Instagram on Thursday to express her dismay over the proposal of some lawmakers to restore the death penalty in the Philippines.

Picache’s social media post came after the House Committee on Justice approved on Wednesday a consolidated bill that revives the imposition of the death penalty against heinous crimes. The bill is expected to be scheduled for plenary debates soon.

“Received this news today.

Ang sakit sa puso at ulo!!

Bakit ba gustong gusto nyo ang kultura ng karahasan, pagpatay, galit....bakit?!?!?!!!”

Picache wrote.

She also shared a quote that reads: “Why do we kill people who kills people to

Cherry Pie Picache

show killing people is wrong?”

Picache has been vocal about her stand against the revival of death penalty in the country.

She made a statement about this last year after a Quezon City court found the killer of her mother guilty of robbery with homicide.

THE US ASIAN POST

The veteran actress said at that time that she is happy with the decision of the court to hand suspect Michael Flores a penalty of reclusion perpetua, or imprisonment of up to 40 years.

“I have always been against death penalty. So masaya kami doon sa reclusion perpetua,” she said. “And hopefully, in the end of it, he will gain back his dignity as a human being.”

She continued: “Siguro naman, with that penalty, napagsisihan na niya ang evil act that he has done.

And I hope that it could really serve as a lesson to other people sana wala nang ibang makaranas ng ganun. And I hope [this shows people] that there’s justice.” (MNS)

Kean on being a husband and a dad Kean Cipriano revealed that he really wanted to be a lawyer before, but he jokes that he made “a campus tour,” shifting from one course to another before he forayed into becoming the vocalist of Callalily and later ventured into acting.

He proved to be in demand as an actor. For this year alone, he did a total of seven movies: “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank 2” (an official entry in Metro Manila Film Festival 2016), “Mano Po 7: Chinoy,” “That Thing Called Tanga Na,” “Love is Blind,” “Triptiko,” “Echorsis” and the barkada movie, “Bar Boys”.

So does he consider himself now more of an actor than a rock band vocalist?

“I enjoy acting but I’m still a full-fledged musician,” he said. “Sa singing and music ako nagsimula, so first love ko pa rin ‘yan. I’m just grateful that doors also opened for me to show that I can also act.”

So how is it being married to Chynna Ortaleza and being dad to their daughter?

“As much as possible, I don’t want to talk about my

Kean Cipriano

family life but we’re happy.

Masaya maging dad and I’m thankful to be blessed with a beautiful woman, a beautiful human being. She’s the

woman of my dreams. At the end of the day, I’m sleeping with my best friend, kaya wala na akong mahihiling pa.”(MNS)

Taking it to the next level They often played tweetum roles that appeal mostly to teenagers. But both at 21 now, Joyce Ching and Kristoffer Martin are raring to do more mature roles.

In a recent interview, Joyce said she’s now on “level up stage” as actress.

“Ang tingin kasi ng mga tao sa akin hanggang ngayon, bata, bagets pa din,” she said. “I think at my age, it’s time to do something na level up na from what I usually do, which is ’yun nga, ’yung mga tweetum roles.”

Kristoffer echoed the sentiment, reiterating that “hindi kami forever teenager.” The actor believes “moving on” is essential to their respective careers especially that there’s already a new generation of young actors in the industry.

“Hindi na kami ni Joyce ’yung bagay sa mga teenager na role, kumbaga tapos na kami dyan eh. At our age, dapat as actor ay nagle-level up na kami,” he said.

“Nandiyan sila Bianca Umali, Miguel Tanfelix na mga 16-years-old, so sa tingin ko, mas sa kanila na bagay ’yung mga ganu’ng role. Hindi forever na makikipagsabayan kami sa ganu’n ’di ba?”

That said, the two took the challenge of slipping

Joyce Ching

into quite mature roles on GMA’s afternoon series “Hahamakin Ang Lahat.” It is about the repeating fates of a mother and her child who both had to bear the agony of not being able to be with the man they truly love because of the struggles and conflicts they encounter in winning the approval of their family.

Also in the cast are Eula Valdez, Ariel Rivera, Snooky Serna, Thea Tolentino, Marc Abaya and more.

According to Joyce, her character on the series is a “stepping out” role. To bolster the claim, she cited wearing a two-piece bikini in one of its recent episodes.

“Actually that is my first time to wear a bikini. Kahit sa real life hindi ako nagsu-

suot ng ganu’n,” she shared.

Aside from enhancing her physique, Joyce admits she prepares her heart the most for such requirements.

“Kailangan ko kasi makalayo kay Joyce, I have to be in my character,” she noted. “’Yung sarili ko, ’yung puso ko hinahanda ko kasi siyempre kailangan talaga namin ibigay ’yung totoong emotion sa eksena eh. Dapat maging totoo para ma-appreciate ng tao na totoo talaga ’yung nakikita nila.”

Considering she and Kristoffer are former lovers, Joyce admits working with him is a big factor noting it helps her lose awkwardness when doing daring roles.

“Ako mas okay ako na siya ang ka-eksena ko kasi mas weird ’di ba kapag hindi mo kakilala ’yung ka-eksena mo tapos kailangan niyong magyakapan, mag-kiss?” she said. “Kami naman ni Kristoffer, we are friends and sobrang alalay niya sa akin, sobrang supportive.”

(MNS)

Christmas at

Cafe Sierra

Pre Christmas, Friday, December 23rd Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet with a Holiday Flair 6 PM - 10 PM | Adults $65 | Children (5-10 years) $30

Christmas Eve, Saturday, December 24th Candlelight Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet with a Holiday Flair 6 PM - 10 PM | Adults $65 | Children (5-10 years) $30

Christmas Day, Sunday, December 25th Traditional Sunday Brunch with a Holiday Flair 10 AM - 3 PM | Adults $65 | Children (5-10 years) $30

Traditional Seafood and Prime Rib Buffet with a Holiday Flair 5 PM - 9 PM | Adults $65 | Children (5-10 years) $30 Traditional Holiday Carolers will be available for our guests enjoyment during our Seafood & Prime Rib Buffet on the following dates: December 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24 and 25.

Prices exclude tax & gratuity. All dates, times, prices, menu items & entertainment are subject to change without notice.

555 Universal Hollywood Drive, Universal City, CA 91608

Reservations: 818.509.2030 www.cafesierrahilton.com

THE US ASIAN POST Friday - Thursday,

December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

11

MOTORING

Acura MDX earns Top Safety Pick+ Rating from IIHS for 4th year in a row TORRANCE, Calif., – The 2017 Acura MDX earned TOP SAFETY PICK+, the highest designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), for its fourth consecutive year. Acura earned a total of two TOP SAFETY PICK+ and two TOP SAFETY PICK ratings for 2017, making Acura a top leader in safety ratings in the automotive industry.

2017 Acura TOP SAFETY PICK+Vehicles: MDX RDX with available AcuraWatch Acura TOP SAFETY PICK Vehicles: ILX with available AcuraWatch RLX

The AcuraWatch™ suite of active safety and driver-assistive technologies is offered as standard equipment on all 2017 MDX and 2017 RLX models, and is available on all 2017 Acura sedans and SUVs. AcuraWatch technologies include Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Road Departure Mitigation (RDM) with Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) and Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Low-Speed Follow (LSF).

To date, AcuraWatch has been deployed on more than 70,000 Acura vehicles. At the 2016 Los Angeles Auto Show, Acura signaled its

intent to eventually apply AcuraWatch as standard equipment on all core models, and announced it will add Traffic Jam Assist to the AcuraWatch suite in certain models next year.

All new Acura models come with a multi-angle rearview camera as standard equipment. Additional standard safety equipment on all models include Advance Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure; Vehicle Stability Assist™ (VSAŽ) with traction control; Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); side curtain airbags (some vehicles equipped with a rollover sensor as well); advanced front airbags; and front side airbags.

Acura is a leader in safety ratings with four models among top IIHS-rated vehicles for 2017.

2017 Chevrolet Volt named to WardsAuto 10 Best Engines List

Volt wins coveted Wards 10 Best Engines award for second consecutive year.

DETROIT – Chevrolet adds another industry recognition to its lineup as the 2017 Chevrolet Volt extended range electric vehicle (EREV) earns a 2017 Wards 10 Best Engines Award. This marks the second consecutive year that the Volt has won the award and the third time overall. “The Chevy Volt propulsion system wins a spot on the Wards 10 Best Engines list for the second year in a row for three reasons,� said WardsAuto Senior Content Director Drew Winter. “It has a torquey, fun-to-drive personality.

It offers impressive electric-only range of 53 miles and efficient gasoline-powered range whenever you need it for anxiety free driving. That is flexibility unequaled in the automotive world. And despite imitations, it continues to be one of the most unique and innovative propulsion systems ever mass produced.� “Our Global Propulsion Systems engineers are humbled by this industry accolade. The team worked hard to give the Chevrolet customer more, including more EV range and more EPA-estimated fuel economy, than the previous generation Volt,� said Dan

Nicholson, vice president, Global Propulsion Systems. “Winning this award for two consecutive years highlights our company’s efforts and success in providing customers with an innovative and industry-leading propulsion system.�

Starting at $33,220, the second-generation Volt delivers a unique execution of a two motor drive unit with 294 lb-ft of torque, a 18.4kWh lithium-ion battery pack and an efficient Ecotec 1.5L gasoline range extender. Together, they provide an impressive EPA-estimated 106 MPGe, 53 miles of EV range and 420 miles of total driving

range. Since the first-generation Volt came to market, owners have driven about 1.5 billion miles in EV mode, saving about 58 million gallons of gas. Data shows drivers use all-electric power more than 80 percent of the time.

In addition to the award-winning propulsion system, the 2017 Volt offers new, unique, built-in Teen Driver Technology that encourages safe driving habits and lets parents know how their teenager drove the vehicle. Full-speed Adaptive Cruise Control and Forward Automatic Braking safety features are also available.

?

K E E W IS H T E U S IS P A S U DID YOU MISS 0Q YQTTKGU 8KUKV VJG FKIKVCN GFKVKQP QH 75# #5+#0 2156

TG JG [Y CP U W PF Ĺż Ĺ?NN QW [ TG JG [Y GT (QT (KN #OU 'X CARS, LAW FIRMS, AND MORE... , OD FO , RE LTU CU P PO , YLE EST W! NEWS, INFORMATION, LIF . VISIT WWW.USASIANPOST.COM NO YOU CAN’T GO WRONG WITH USAP

7 + (

www. USASIANPOST.com

12

Friday - Thursday, December 16 - 22, 2016

Visit www.usasianpost.com

DEFEND

by the opposition and their affiliates to discredit the President before the international community by projecting an ugly picture of the anti-drug campaign. “They use and abuse the term extra judicial killings or EJK with impunity when the fact is that EJK is a misnomer and an illusion. The term EJK already prejudges every murder committed against

From page 1

Duterte’s thrust to achieve genuine change is already taking shape.

“In less than six months of his presidency, the President has accomplished a lot in the areas of criminality and illegal drugs, corruption and the drive toward Federalism. In the process, many were affected by these serious campaigns, including those who used to gain from their evil ways,” said MRRD-NECC chairman and TESDA director general Guiling Mamondiong said.

Mamondiong said the

President is not only a leader for the rich or the poor but of all Filipinos.

“These threats on the office of the people’s President will not prosper. Any supposed plan being hatched by anyone or group of removing him from office through unconstitutional means shall be dealt with blunt force by the millions of Filipinos who have had enough of the apathy, negligence and ineptness of previous administrations,” he stressed.

President Duterte has been the subject of attacks

for his determined campaign against illegal drugs, where critics accused him of launching targeted and deliberate killings of certain drug personalities.

There were reports about some sectors planning to oust him (Duterte), in the light of Vice President Leni Robredo’s resignation from the Cabinet. Likewise, the name of a wealthy businesswoman is being linked to the same plot.

But MRRD-NECC believes that what is deliberate is the apparent campaign

all through the Christmas Season.”

The prayer is as follow: Leader: Father, source and giver of life, we lift our hearts and voices to you.

Help us to build a society that truly chooses life in all situations.

Let our response be: Lord, heal our pain.

For those experiencing pain and anguish because of violence and crime,Lord, heal our pain.

For perpetrators and victims of atrocities who both struggle with anger and hatred,Lord, heal our pain.

For our broken world, enchained by the desire for revenge, Lord, heal our pain.

For our wounded society

misled by the illusion that one must take life in order to defend it.

Lord, heal our pain.

Leader: Let us say together: Help us to make peace.

For our country, tempted to accept violent revenge.

Help us to make peace.

For the conviction to recognize and uphold the dignity of all people.

Help us to make peace.

For the wisdom to see poverty, injustice and lack of educational and employment opportunities as likely causes of criminality, Help us to make peace.

For guidance and compassion in addressing the pain of both victims and perpetrators of wrong-doing,

anyone as government-initiated which is not the case.

There is no statute in Philippine laws that punishes EJK as a crime. It is a political term used to demean and discredit the government,” explained Mamondiong.

The TESDA chief, however, stressed that like President Duterte, they believe that the rule of law must be upheld at all times in

THE US ASIAN POST

defense most specially of the weak. “There is no president in the history of the country other than President Duterte who cared so passionately about the country’s future.

As he said, he will stake everything, even his life and the presidency in pursuit of his dreams of making the Philippines a better and safer place to live in,” Mamondiong pointed out.

TAGLE

From page 1

(RCAM’s Prayer Against Death Penalty) starting on Dec. 11, and all through the Christmas Season.

“Dear Monsignori, Fathers, Brothers and Sisters, In the name of His Eminence Luis Antonio G. Cardinal Tagle and of the Presbyteral Council of the Archdiocese of Manila, I am forwarding to you the Prayer Against the Death Penalty for the Archdiocese of Manila,” he said.

Malicdem added, “This prayer can be said either before the Mass or after the post-communion prayer, or you may opt to incorporate it at the Prayer of the Faithful of all Masses beginning tomorrow, Dec. 8, 2016, and

MISS UNIVERSE

From page 1

ists even the international media.

“Rest assured that all the islands will be well represented, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao. Millions will be watching and after the pageant, we are sure that the world, or the universe rather, will be thinking of one thing -- that is the best time to visit the Philippines is now,” she said.

For her part. Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Emily Padilla made

the assurance that the DILG and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in partnership with other government agencies are prepared as far as security matters are concerned. Padilla noted that this will be the third time that the Philippines will host the Miss Universe, considered as the most popular beauty contest in the world.

“We have managed to show the world already that we are capable of providing security to major events, like the Papal visit and the

APEC, and now the ASEAN which will coincide with this Miss Universe, “ Padilla said.

Padilla said the security plans are in place, not just for Metro Manila, but even in provinces where contestants will be going to.

The government will mobilize its law enforcement forces to ensure that the Miss Universe staff, beauty contestants, and other foreign visitors will be safe while they are in our country, she said.

shouting for my ouster. But you will never hear it from the communists because I am the President belonging to the left actually,” he said.

“And everybody would tell you that I was crossing the ideological borders even before I became mayor.

Find a policemen or soldiers who was --- who was taken hostage there. And they would tell you the person who would go there to the mountains to retrieve them,” he added.

Duterte, who is known to have befriended the National People’s Army, rescued captured law enforcers from the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) before and after

he became a President.

“And you can go to the mountains and ask the regular armed NPA [member].

And ask them, ‘Who is your idol?’ So, let me disabuse your mind about this,” he said.(MNS)

REDS

From page 1

ment and everything and at the end of the day, it ends with a stalemate,” he said.

“So I do not believe in that shit that…They will never go for the ouster. Look at their posters. They would just condemn the burial of Marcos. But that was really their line, their favorite lines actually because Marcos was their enemy,” he added.

Duterte explained that in protests against the burial of late dictator Ferdinand Marcos Sr. at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, only the “yellow” called for his removal from office.

“You know, in every demonstration…Let me tell you frankly, in every demonstration, it’s the yellow who’s

GUNS

Your Honda Super Center www.carsonhonda.com

TERZO “T” PALLEN

2016 Honda Fit LX Automatic

2016 Honda Civic LX Sedan Automatic

2017 Honda Accord LX Sedan Automatic

Get Your

Get Your

2016 Honda HRV LX Auto 2wd

2016 Honda CR-V SE 2WD Automatic

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid

Get Your

Get Your

From page 1

be shipped and that China was rushing him to have the weapons delivered.

The President made the statement after potential obstacles were reported in a Philippine National Police plan to buy 25,000 rifles from the US due to alleged human rights violations committed in connection with the government’s violent war on illegal drugs.

“China is pressing me na andiyan na ang armas.

Tatangapin ko na eh. Apurado sila,” Duterte said in a speech during a visit to the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ Northern Luzon Command at Camp Aquino in Tarlac City.

Zhao told reporters that Manila and Beijing are “still exploring possibilities” as both sides are still in the initial stages of discussion.

If the deal pushes through, Zhao said China could provide the Philip-

pines with “light arms and not heavy equipment.”

“The arms that the Filipino side is interested in is arms for fighting against terrorism and anti-drug campaign, things like that.

It’s not for heavy weapons or equipment,” he said.

The Philippines, he added, needed more firearms because it has “so many new members of the police and the army.”

“At the end of the day it is up to the Philippines government to decide from which country they would buy weapons they need at a reasonable price,” he said.

“Your President has made it clear several months ago that he will receive sources of arms from other countries.

I think China is one of the countries that is potential to provide certain kind of arms.

I think that is exactly what your President is referring to,” he added.(MNS)

Get Your

Price

Price

Price

5 at this payment

5 at this payment

5 at this payment

The best for you!

The best for you!

The best for you!

Lease for

$

138

Lease for

per mo for 36 mos.

$

148

Lease for

per mo for 36 mos.

$

Get Your

Price

5 at this payment py

The best for you!

158

Lease for

per mo for 36 mos.

$

178

Price

5 at this payment

5 at this payment

The best for you!

The best for you!

Lease for

per mo for 36 mos.

Price

$

188

Lease for

per mo for 36 mos.

$

268

per mo for 36 mos.

$1,888 total due at signing

$1,888 total due at signing

$1,888 total due at signing

$1,888 total due at signing

$1888 total due at signing

$1,888 total due at signing

On approval of credit. Plus tax and license. $0 security deposit. $.15 cents per mile excess of 12k mile per year.

On approval of credit. Plus tax and license. $0 security deposit. $.15 cents per mile excess of 12k mile per year.

On approval of credit. Plus tax and license. $0 security deposit. $.15 cents per mile excess of 12k mile per year.

On approval of credit. Plus tax and license. $0 security deposit. $.15 cents per mile excess of 12k mile per year.

On approval of credit. Plus tax and license. $0 security deposit. $.15 cents per mile excess of 12k mile per year.

On approval of credit. Plus tax and license. $0 security deposit. $.20 cents per mile excess of 12k mile per year.

MSRP $17,525. 36 month lease of $138 plus tax with $1,888 drive off. $.15 per over mileage charge.

MSRP $20,275. 36 month lease of $148 per month plus tax with $1,888 drive off. $.15 per over mileage.

MSRP $23,990. 36 month lease of $158 per month plus tax with $1,888 drive off. $.15 per over mileage.

MSRP $20,915. 36 month lease of $178 per month plus tax with $1,888 drive off. $.15 per over mileage.

MSRP $25,545. 36 month lease $188 per month plus tax with $1,888 drive off. $.15 per over mileage

MSRP $30,440. 36 month lease of $268 per month plus tax with $1,888 drive off. $.20 per over mileage.

Price plus goverment fees and taxes, any finance charge, any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge any emissions testing charge. Offer expires on 01/03/2017.

Special Pre-Owned Inventory

2005 Honda Accord LX

2010 Honda Accord LX

2007 Honda CR-V LX

VIN: 1HGCM56495A161751 Stock#: T5A161751

VIN: 1HGCP2F33AA169836 Stock#: TAA169836

VIN: JHLRE38387C018833 Stock#: T7C018833

$5,991

$8,494

$9,484

2010 Honda Fit Sport

2014 Nissan Versa Norte HB

VIN: JHMGE8G44AS026418 Stock#: SAS026418

$10,982

800-503-2321 Sales Hrs: Mon-Sat: 8:30am-9pm, Sunday: 10am-8pm

2013 Toyota Corolla L

2010 Honda CR-V EX

2006 Honda 4Runner SR5

VIN: 3N1CE2CP9EL417598 Stock#: TEL417598

VIN: 5YFBU4EE8DP127244 VIN: 5J6RE3H51AL012730 Stock#: TDP127244 Stock#: TAL012730

VIN: JTEZU14R268052892 Stock#: T68052892

$10,994

$11,981 $11,984

$12,991

1435 East 223rd St. Carson, CA 90745

Conveniently located within 10 minutes from anywhere in the South Bay