OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 1

♦♦ FEBRUARYOCTOBER 15,19, 20112011 ♦♦

Ms. Lewis with Pres. Barack Obama

OPEN FORUM PHILIPPINE NEWS LEGAL NOTES HONOLULU'S RAIL NOY REJECTS ABANDONMENT OF IS AN ENERGY BLACK STATE HONORS FOR PERMANENT RESIDENT HOLE MARCOS STATUS

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE PRESORTED STANDARD 94-356 WAIPAHU DEPOT RD., 2ND FLR. U.S. POSTAGE WAIPAHU, HI 96797 PAID HONOLULU, HI PERMIT NO. 9661 2 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011

EDITORIAL FROM THE PUBLISHER et the war of words begin. As ex- Publisher & Executive Editor Charlie Y. Sonido, M.D. Role Models Worth pected by most political pundits, for- mer Gov. Linda Lingle last week Publisher & Managing Editor Looking Up To announced her candidacy for the U.S. Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Senate as a Republican. The position t’s not always easy to find good role models for young L has been up for grabs ever since in- Associate Editors women in today’s society. Choosing which women are Dennis Galolo cumbent U.S. Sen. Daniel Akaka, 86, worth paying attention to is often skewed, which could Edwin Quinabo decided not to run for re-election. A two-term gov- explain why celebrities like Paris Hilton or Kim Kar- ernor, Lingle is the decided underdog against Democrats Mazie Hirono Creative Designer dashian make the news, while scores of female doctors, Junggoi Peralta I and Ed Case. A Hirono victory over Case in the Primary would set up researchers, teachers, activists, scholars, businessown- a rematch of the 2002 gubernatorial race won by Lingle. With De- Design Consultant ers and mothers go unnoticed and unappreciated. mocrats holding a slim 53-47 majority in the U.S. Senate, the national Randall Shiroma Fortunately, there is no shortage of savvy, intelligent, hard- GOP will have a vested interest in Lingle’s campaign. So far, 2012 working women for young Filipinas to look up to. In the Philippines, Photography has the makings of a very interesting election season. We’ll have much Tim Llena women have broken through the barriers of institutions that were more on politics in the coming months, so please stay tuned. once male-only, most notably executive government posts to exec- Administrative Assistant For our cover story this issue, we have an exclusive interview Shalimar Pagulayan utive corporate positions. The Philippines has already had two with Ms. Loida Nicolas Lewis, a successful Filipina entrepreneur, women presidents, compared to none for the U.S., as well as an en- Columnists philanthropist, social civic leader, motivational speaker, author and tire slate of government executives and members of Congress. In Carlota Ader lawyer. Her husband was the late Reginald Lewis, a legendary busi- Carlo Cadiz, M.D. the private sector, women have made their marks as successful en- nessman who was the first Afro-American to build a billion-dollar Sen. Will Espero trepreneurs, corporate executives, professionals, academics and company. After Reginald’s untimely death, Loida took over the com- Grace F. Fong, Ed.D everything else in-between. Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. pany and continued its successful run. She has worn many hats over Loida Nicolas Lewis and Josie Natori are two eminent examples J.P. Orias the years but still managed to raise two daughters in a healthy and Pacita Saludes of highly competent leaders. Ms. Lewis inherited the top post at TLC happy family environment. The Chronicle last featured Ms. Lewis in Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. Beatrice, one of the world’s leading multinational food companies, Charlie Sonido, M.D. May 1997. After some 14 years, she graciously allowed us to catch after her husband and former company CEO passed away. She suc- Emmanuel S. Tipon, Esq. up with the details of her life. We hope you will enjoy reading her life cessfully steered the company to greater profits and more acclaim. Felino S. Tubera story and tidbits of wisdom she shares in our cover story. Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. Ms. Natori is a fashion designer who sells lingerie, sleepwear, In our Open Forum, University of Hawaii-Manoa civil engi- loungewear, underwear and other high-end women’s fashion to up- neering professor and former Honolulu mayoral candidate Panos Contributing Writers scale department stores in the U.S. and 15 other countries interna- Prevedouros writes about the copious amounts of energy that will Belinda Aquino, Ph.D. tionally. Both women are proof positive of Filipino women’s ability be consumed by Honolulu’s fixed rail project—a fact that he says has Clement Bautista to successfully juggle their careers with their roles as wives, moth- Teresita Bernales, Ed.D been overlooked. Please read his thought-provoking article “Hon- ers, community and business leaders and catalysts for change in a Linda Dela Cruz olulu’s Rail Is an Energy Black Hole” and see if you agree with him. world pining for leaders. Fiedes Doctor There are other columns and articles of interest in this jam- Danny De Gracia, II, MA We congratulate Ms. Lewis and Ms. Natori and others like them packed issue that I hope our readers will find informative and use- Carolyn Weygan-Hildebrand for their accomplishments. Kudos especially to Ms. Lewis for also Amelia Jacang, M.D. ful. In closing, we would like to thank our faithful readers as well as reaching out to the poor and needy in her hometown of Sorsogon, in Caroline Julian our advertisers for their generous support of our two recent special Maita Milallos the Philippines through her family’s private college. We wish her supplements on women’s health and clean energy. We have received Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D. continued success in all of her future and personal endeavors. excellent feedback on the quality of both supplements. Much, much Glenn Wakai Amado Yoro thanks for your kind and generous support of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle. As always, we invite our readers to contact us at: fil- Philippine Correspondent Let’s Tread Carefully on Greg Garcia [email protected] if you have story ideas, tips or concerns regarding Hawaii’s dynamic and vibrant Filipino community. Big Island Distributor Homeless Bill Grace Larson Until next time…aloha and mabuhay! he City is moving forward on a bill to establish a pro- Ditas Udani cedure for the removal and disposal of personal items Maui Distributor stored on public property. The Carlisle administration Cecile Piros supports Bill 54 (2011) which bans furniture, clothing LETTERS Molokai Distributor T and other personal belongings on sidewalks and public Maria Watanabe KUDOS FOR WELL-WRITTEN SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT parks. Violators would be given written notice and 24 Advertising/Marketing Director hours to remove their belongings. Failure to comply would result in I had the pleasure of reading your October 1st issue cover to cover Chona A. Montesines-Sonido confiscation of such items. and I commend Carolyn and your newspaper for your efforts in publishing Account Executives Critics like the ACLU say the bill unfairly targets the homeless all the energy articles in it. I’m very impressed with the substance and en- ergy information that you provided in this issue. I plan to bring copies to Carlota Ader and opens up the City to costly litigation. The organization also be- J.P. Orias share with key energy stakeholders and leaders to bring attention to your lieves that the homeless will simply move from one place to another. newspaper. On the other hand, supporters complain that public areas in com- Thank you for this issue and I hope that you’ll continue to include en- The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is published weekly by The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. munities like McCully, Moiliili and Downtown are being used for ergy news every now and then. It is mailed directly to subscribers and dis- personal storage purposes and encampments. They say that Bill 54 tributed at various outlets around Oahu and Estrella A. Seese will ensure sidewalk access for pedestrians and address public the neighbor islands. Editorial and advertis- Acting Energy Program Administrator ing deadlines are three weeks prior to pub- health, safety and sanitation issues. lication date. Subscriptions are available at State DBEDT $75 per year for Oahu and the neighbor is- While the bill does have its merits, we cannot support it unless lands, continental U.S. $80, foreign country there are more concerted efforts by the public and private sectors to $90. Copyright 2006. The Hawaii Filipino reach out to the homeless. Let’s remember to extend compassion to Chronicle Inc. is located at 94-356 Waipahu Depot, Waipahu, HI 96797. Telephone those who are less fortunate. We should realize that if not for the send outreach teams ahead of time to counsel the homeless and en- (808) 678-8930 Facsimile (808) 678-1829. grace of God, we could very easily be the ones out on the streets. courage them to accept housing solutions and other services. Govern- E-mail [email protected]. Web- site: www.thefilipinochronicle.com. Opinions Many local families are living to paycheck-to-paycheck and strug- ment needs to also look at ways to expand the existing inventory of expressed by the columnists and contribu- gling to make ends meet. One catastrophic illness or job loss and affordable housing, provide more employment opportunities and ag- tors do not necessarily reflect those of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle management. Re- we are out on the streets. gressively partner with non-profit and social service groups. production of the contents in whole or in part We need less of a heavy hand and more of a helping hand in deal- These options would be a good start in eradicating homeless- is prohibited without written permission from the management. All rights reserved. ing with the homeless. For instance, the police should not show up at ness instead of eradicating the homeless. It’s already hard enough Printed in the U.S.A. community clean-up events en masse and force the homeless to va- for the homeless to obtain employment and housing. Let’s not make www.thefilipinochronicle.com cate, as was done in the past. A more humane approach would be to it even more difficult with legislation that further burdens their lives. www.efilipinochronicle.com OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 3 OPEN FORUM HonoluluÊs Rail Is an Energy Black Hole By Panos D. Prevedouros eliminations, Table 4-21 of the by 144,540 gives 51.75. That’s Final EIS shows that the rail how many years it will take to nergy and Hon- project will save 396 million make up the construction en- olulu rail is an British thermal units (BTU) of ergy loss by the purported en- angle that I did not energy each day, or 144,540 ergy savings. But in 52 years have time to look million BTU per year. rail will need multiple compo- E at in detail, until Hao correctly added that: nent replacements, repairs and recently when my “Any evaluation of the energy refurbishments. So an energy students did some savings generated by rail also black hole it is! energy analysis of Honolulu’s needs to consider the massive On the other hand, our 2008 proposed rail. They discovered amount of energy required dur- simulation estimates using the this June 2008 article in the ing construction. For example, DEIS traffic numbers show that Honolulu Advertiser by Sean construction of the fixed guide- rail is a net energy loser without Hao entitled “Rail’s use of en- way will require between 3.7 even counting the huge energy increased by $1 billion. Let’s closures. Construction and rail ergy subject of debate” (see trillion and 4.9 trillion BTU of consumption during construc- keep this summary and look at car cost is expected to exceed http://the.honoluluadvertiser.co energy, according to Parsons tion. In comparison, a properly it three years from now. The $7 billion, while Congress has m/article/2008/Jun/09/ln/hawaii Brinckerhoff.” designed and operated HOT Ewa-to-town corridor has been rescinded $1.5 billion of ex- 806090353.html) This quote reveals two star- lane system will save energy paralyzed by rail construction pected support. Of note is that rail will con- tling facts: (motor fuel and oil for electric- sume about 20 MW of energy First the unnamed Parsons ity generation.) which is about 20 percent of the Brinkerhoff source clearly lied And speaking of lies and capacity of HECO’s new palm to Hao by stating roughly half lack of accountability, here is a oil fueled power plant. Unfortu- the amount of energy BTU re- fine quote from this 3-year old nately, peak rail schedule coin- quired for the construction of article: “The potential positive cides with peak demand for the rail. The 2008 Draft EIS, impact on the environment is a electricity around 6 pm, which Table 4-34 on page 4-159, key benefit of the $3.7 billion means that rail will stress shows that the rail’s Airport elevated commuter rail line, HECO’s generators. alignment will require said Honolulu Mayor Mufi Now if you believe the 7,480,000 MBTU. That’s 7.5 Hannemann.” City’s numbers which are based trillion BTU, not 3.7 trillion Now we know that the im- on incredible ridership projec- BTU. pact to the environment will be tions and substantial bus route Second, dividing 7,480,000 clearly negative and the cost has SOCIAL SECURITY UPDATE Answers to Your Most Pressing Social Security Questions By Jane Yamamoto-Burigsay show your correct name or a trip to the office. Once you Social Security number. submit your online application ENERAL electronically, in most cases, Q: I received For more information, visit you’re done. There are no forms a notice from So- our website at www.socialsecu- to sign or documents to send in. cial Security re- rity.gov. If more information is needed to G cently. It said my process your application, a rep- name and Social Q: Are Social Security num- resentative will contact you. For Security number bers reassigned after a person more information about apply- do not match Social Security’s dies? ing online, visit our website at records. What should I do? A: No, we do not reassign www.socialsecurity.gov or call A: It’s critical that your Social Security numbers. In all, us toll-free at 1-800-772-1213 name and Social Security num- we have assigned more than 460 (TTY 1-800-325-0778). ber, as shown on your Social Se- million Social Security numbers curity card, match your and each year we assign about Q: If both my spouse and I employer’s payroll records and 5.5 million new numbers. The are entitled to Social Security your W-2 form. If they don’t, current system has enough new benefits, is there any reduction in here is what you need to do: numbers for several more gener- our payments because we are • Give your employer the cor- ations. For more information, married? rect information exactly as visit our website at www.so- A: No. We independently shown on your Social Secu- cialsecurity.gov or call us toll- calculate each spouse’s Social rity card or your corrected free at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY Security benefit amount. Each card; or 1-800-325-0778). spouse receives a monthly bene- • Contact your local Social fit amount based on his or her Security office (www.so- RETIREMENT own earnings. Couples are not cialsecurity.gov/locator) or Q: Can I apply online for penalized simply because they call 1-800-772-1213 (TTY retirement benefits? are married. If one member of 1-800-325-0778) if your So- A: Yes. It’s quick and easy. the couple earned low wages or cial Security card does not Apply online and save yourself (continued on page 6) 4 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011 COVER STORY A Heart-to-Heart Chat with Fil-Am Businesswoman Loida N. Lewis By Chona A. Montesines-Sonido usinesswoman, industrialist, philanthropist, social civic leader, motivational speaker, author and lawyer. Such titles aptly describe Loida Nicolas Lewis— an extraordinary woman who is a role model and inspiration for Filipinos the B world over.

Born and raised in Sorsogon was ranked number 1 among the American Associations (NaF- good gover- City, Lewis comes from a fam- “Top 50 Women Business Own- FAA) which supported the fight nance in the ily of successful entrepreneurs. ers in America” by the Working of Filipino-American veterans Philippines. She graduated from the Univer- Woman magazine in 1994. Busi- for equity. sity of the Philippines College of nessWeek named her a “Man- Lewis continues to be ac- Q: When Law and graduated cum laude ager to Watch” in 1995. tively involved with philan- the call went from St. Theresa’s College. She Under her leadership, TLC thropy work in the Philippines, out for a na- met her husband-to-be Reginald Beatrice International Holdings, namely the Lewis College in tionwide day Lewis on a blind date in New Inc., grew into a multi-billion Sorsogon, which educates the of prayer, York. They married a year later dollar corporation of 64 compa- next generation of Filipinos. En- how did in Manila. In 1987, Reginald nies based in 31 countries. rollment consists of about 980 Fil-Ams Lewis acquired Beatrice Interna- Today, it is a marketer of ice children, from K-12 to college, respond? tional in a $985 million lever- cream in Spain and the Canary with 30 percent on scholarship. Do you aged buyout, creating the largest Islands, the leading manufac- During the May 2010 elec- feel that a African American-owned com- turer of potato chips in Ireland, tions in the Philippines, Lewis peaceful pany in the U.S. and a prime distributor of bever- worked hard to promote clean solution After Reginald’s untimely age in the Netherlands, Belgium, and honest elections—something can be death in 1993 of brain cancer, France and Thailand. which has eluded the country for found Loida Nicolas Lewis Lewis was named chairwoman An accomplished attorney, years. As a result of her advocacy, for the and CEO of TLC Beatrice. She Lewis holds the distinction of she is serving as president of the Spratlys? Personally, how would Pilar, our only military ship dat- began business meetings with being one of the first Asian U.S. Pinoys for Good Gover- you resolve this dispute? ing back in WWII, was pur- prayer and used a personal touch women to pass the New York nance (USP4GG) which aims to A: On Aug. 21 of this year, chased from the U.S. for 450 when dealing with employees. State bar exam without studying promote solidarity and goodwill USP4GG set up a nationwide million pesos. In terms of brav- She cut costs, trimmed positions, at a U.S. law school. She later among Filipinos. Day of Prayer for Peace for the ery, our Filipino navy men are sold non-performing assets but served as a General Attorney in The Chronicle last inter- Spratlys. We had 175 cities all ready to die, but Pres. Noynoy retained the services of loyal and the Immigration and Naturaliza- viewed Lewis in May 1997. over the world that joined us. I will not ask that sacrifice from effective employees. When it tion Service and founded the Now nearly 14 years later, she believe a peaceful solution will our people because other means came to sharing profits, she did Asian American Legal Defense has once again granted the be found for the Spratlys be- are available to settle this dispute so with those who created value Fund in New York City, which Chronicle an exclusive inter- cause I believe in the power of peacefully. for shareholders. Her business served as a voice for those view. The following interview prayer. I also believe that China philosophy was simple—“Prof- whose human rights were threat- was edited for space and clarity. as a world power will not engage Q: What other projects is its With Honor.” ened. She also headed the Na- in war as its first military venture USP4GG involved in? As a businesswoman, she tional Federation of Filipino Q: The Spratlys dispute is a in Asia. War is not only econom- A: Other projects include big concern for many Fil-Ams. ically-expensive but China will amending the Overseas Voting U.S. Pinoys for Good Gover- also antagonize its Asian neigh- Act to eliminate the pledge of re- nance is taking a lead role for a bors, if not the entire UN. Per- turning to the Philippines three peaceful resolution over the sonally, I would recommend to years after voting, encouraging Spratlys. How did you get in- Pres. Noynoy to raise $1B in Filipino-Americans to participate volved with USP4GG? bonds, buy this giant oil rig in in the political process both in the A: In the last Philippine elec- Shanghai and extract the oil by U.S. and in the Philippines, work- tions, Fil-Ams led by Rodel subcontracting it to the U.S., ing for the passage of Medicare Rodis organized USP4GG for France, Norway and Canada. portability before the U.S. Con- Noynoy & Mar. When Noynoy Then we will have control of our gress. These are the three major Aquino won the elections as pres- oil proceeds. initiatives of the USP4GG. Philippine Secretary of Transportation Mar Roxas with Loida Nicolas Lewis at the 1st Worldwide Conference of Overseas Filipinos For Good ident of the Philippines, we trav- Governance held in 2010 in Manila elled to Manila to attend his Q: Why are the Spratlys so Q: You’re a very successful ADVERTISE NOW AND SEE HOW inauguration and were given a important to the Philippines and businesswoman. Your dad was a THE FACE OF BUSINESS IS CHANGING! special audience in Malacanang. Fil-Ams? If it comes down to successful furniture business- At the end of our conference, we war, is the Philippines ready to man. Did you get your business No matter how small your ad, organized ourselves as USP4GG shed blood over the Spratlys? savvy from him? it gets our readers attention! to serve as a watchdog over A: Our military capability A: Both of my parents are CALL 678-8930 OR GO TO OUR WEBSITE @ Philippine affairs and to help was laughable until last August, entrepreneurs. My mother had www.thefilipinochronicle.com Pres. Aquino in his efforts for when the BRP Gregorio del (continued on page 5) OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 5 COVER STORY

(from page 4, A CANDID....) Q: You chose to study law at tember but she would not gradu- her own pharmacy shop and a UP. How did you become inter- ate until May. So I decided to pawnshop. My father founded ested in law? Were you at the top work at the Civil Rights Re- Nicolas Furniture in Manila. In of your class? search Council and my boss in- Bicol, my family owned movie A: My father studied pre- troduced me to Reginald Lewis theaters and a recreation center, a law in UP where Diosdado as my blind date. We were mar- gasoline station, a lumber yard, Macapagal and Jose Laurel Sr. ried in seven months and that’s tracking and fishing ponds. In were his classmates. However, how my life began in the U.S. I short, we ate “deals” for break- because he went into business, worked as an immigration fast. And then I married Regi- he could not continue his dream lawyer with the government Rodel Rodis, co-founder of US Pinoy for Good Governance, Loida Nicolas nald Lewis who himself is an of becoming a lawyer. Of his (INS) for eight years. In 1988, Lewis and Celia Pangilinan-Donahue, a noted lobbyist in Washington, D.C. and Member, Board of Trustees of US Pinoys for Good Governance during entrepreneur. After growing up five children, he wanted me to my husband bought out the the 15th Congress Joint Committee Hearing on Suffrage & Electoral Reforms in a business-minded family and study law, while my other broth- largest off-shore leveraged buy- and Committee on Foreign Affairs at the Batasan Complex, Quezon City, being married for 24 years to an ers studied commerce, engineer- out of Beatrice Food Interna- Philippines last month entrepreneur, where else will I ing and architecture. So we tional and we moved to Paris, cum laude. The older one, was 35 percent. get my business expertise? followed our father’s game plan. France. During my five years in Leslie, is an actress. The younger Q: Please talk about your I was in the top 10 percent of the Paris, I wrote a book entitled one, Christina, worked for five Q: After your husband’s un- childhood in Bicol. What were graduating Class of 1967 and “How To Get a Greencard” and years with the Wall Street Jour- timely death, you not only kept some of your favorite activities? elected senator (university coun- it’s still for sale at amazon.com. nal and is now a freelance writer. TLC Beatrice afloat but also A: We were surrounded by cilor) in UP Student Council. helped it to thrive. What do you beautiful beaches and hot Q: You and your husband Q:What businesses were the attribute your success to? springs. I remember during Q: How did you end up in raised two daughters. What val- Lewis family involved in? What A: Godly wisdom. I summer, we would have pic- New York after passing the ues did you instill in them while was your role in the family busi- prayed everyday and practice nics at the beach or the hot Philippine bar exam? You then growing up? Where are they now ness? Zen to clear my mind. I lis- springs. I went to public school practiced law for several years working? A: TLC Beatrice Interna- tened very well to those who in Sorsogon. My classmates in New York. A: Mr. Lewis and I empha- tional Holdings Inc. consisted knew better than I did. And I came from all levels of society, A: My father was so happy sized two things—first, you of 64 companies in 31 coun- used my instincts. so I learned how to treat people I was admitted to the Philippine must do your job (in my chil- tries. Mr. Lewis was chair and as equals regardless of eco- Bar. As a graduation gift, he sent dren’s case, they must study CEO and I had nothing to do Q: You’re a woman of faith. nomic status. I studied at St. my mother and me on an well). Secondly, they must re- with it. I took over as Chairman How has your religious beliefs Agnes Academy, an all girls’ around-the-world trip. First, we spect their elders. So, I started of the Board and CEO. I started affected your outlook on life? high school which was run by waited for my sister in New York reading to them everyday when to liquidate it in 1997 and sold And your daughters as well? German Benedictine nuns. It who was studying at Columbia they were six months old. Both everything by 2000. My inter- A: I believe in a loving God gave me my spiritual foundation. University. We arrived in Sep- of them are Harvard graduates, nal rate of return to investors (continued on page 6) 6 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011 COVER STORY

(from page 5, A CANDID....) They would like to retire in the micro-finance foundation (Peo- This week, Pres. Obama invited range goals you’ve set for your- and that all things work together Philippines if Medicare is avail- ple’s Alternative Livelihood Pres. Noynoy to be 1 of 8 coun- self? for good. I have faith that every- able. Second and third genera- Foundation of Sorsogon). They tries chosen for fighting corrup- A: First, a movie and docu- thing will be alright in the end. tion Filipino-Americans do not lend 5,000 pesos or more to tion and advocating transparency mentary about Mr. Lewis’ life. And if it is not all right, it is not really have a sense of their iden- women so they can start their in government. Second, a book about my life. the end. So, this optimistic frame tity or culture. Efforts should be own business. They won’t be Third, to be a good grandmother of mind enabled me to endure made to educate them on our loaned money unless they un- Q: You have been involved to my grandchildren. My eldest and to triumph. My two daugh- glorious history as a people, dergo training on how to man- with NaFFAA as its president. daughter adopted two children ters are successful in their own both in the Philippines and in age a business for four What have been some of NaF- from Rwanda. They are now six right and I would hope that both the U.S. Saturdays. Once they have been FAA’s most notable achieve- years old and in kindergarten. their father and me had some ef- loaned money, they must report ments during your tenure? Q: Q: fect on their character. Please talk about some back every Saturday and pay A: During my tenure, we Will you be doing more of the outreach work you’ve back the loan. They have one decentralized the activities of projects for the poor and home- Q: What are the top issues done back in the Philippines, year to pay it back. God has NaFFAA so that its regions as- less in the Philippines? If so, facing the Fil-Am community in especially for the poor people. blessed me so much here in sert their identities. In 2004, we what are they? A: the U.S.? What role can they Why have you given back so America so I feel I should give filed a case in the Philippine No, but I intend to lobby play in improving the situation of much? back to Sorsogon where I was Supreme Court contesting our for the change in the laws on A: their kababayans back home? I established the Lewis born and where I grew up. right to vote as a dual citizen in adoption. There are so many A: First, there is a lack of College in Sorsogon, a private the Philippines and won. abandoned children in the or- political participation. Their school with a low tuition fee. Q: How has Noynoy Aquino phanages all over the Philip- voices are not being heard by One-third of the students are on done so far in his presidency? Q: When you want to get pines. To adopt, it requires that politicians. Second, there is a scholarship. I also funded the Has his administration delivered away from the stress of life, the child has to be in your care lack of unity so that Filipinos initial capital for a micro-fi- on his campaign promises? where do you retreat to? Where (physically) for two years which are underrepresented in political nance foundation in Sorsogon A: Out of 148 countries last is your favorite vacation spot in knocks out any foreign adoption. affairs. Third, a good number of in 1988. We started with 4 fam- year, the Philippines was 89th in the world? Fil-Ams are reaching or have ilies and now there are 20,000 a Competitive Rating. We have A: When Mr. Lewis was Q: What about writing more reached their retirement age. families lifted out of poverty by since moved up to 76th place. alive, we bought a house in East books and/or bestsellers? Hampton, New York. When he A: I am writing my story HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS died, I bought a beachfront but I will probably seek a co- house that he wanted to buy at writer to provide the research. East Hampton. That’s where we The title of my biography/mem- YMCA to Co-Sponsor 12th Annual go on the weekends. My favorite oir was given to me by my city is Paris. daughter Christina. It’s entitled Lights On Afterschool Rally “You Can Have It All But Not At Q: What are some of long The Same Time.” he YMCA of Honolulu dren spend an average of State DOE to provide on-site after is partnering with the seven unsupervised hours school programs to as many chil- SOCIAL SECURITY UPDATE (from page 3 .) T Afterschool Alliance after school, which can lead dren as possible. The YMCA has for the 12th Annual Lights On to skipping school, drugs, al- structured programs to allow for did not earn enough Social Se- benefits for partial or short-term Afterschool Rally on October cohol and other troubling ac- homework time and assistance, curity credits to be eligible for disability. For more information, 19, 2011 from 2:30 pm to 3:30 tivities. learning and enriching experiences, retirement benefits, he or she read our publication “Disability pm at the Hawaii State Capitol. “Afterschool programs exercise and play time. may be eligible to receive bene- Benefits” at www.socialsecu- Experts believe that after keep kids safe, inspire them Parents, educators, commu- fits as a spouse. rity.gov/pubs/10029.html. school programs play a key to learn and help working nity leaders and business leaders DISABILITY role in the social, emotional families,” says Afterschool from across the nation are urging Q: If I go back to work, will and physical growth of chil- Alliance Executive Director Congress to strengthen after- Q: How does Social Secu- I automatically lose my Social dren. Hawaii ranks as one of Jodi Grant. “Given the econ- school programs by supporting rity decide if I am disabled? Security disability benefits? the top states in the nation for omy, it is more important the Afterschool for America’s A: If you are an adult, you A: Social Security has sev- afterschool program participa- than ever to sustain quality Children Act (S. 1370), which must be unable to work for a eral work incentive programs to tion with close to 60,000 chil- afterschool programs. We would allow federal funding to year or more because of a med- help people who want to work. dren in grades K–12 receiving want to ensure that students support innovation in before ical condition or combination of You may be able to receive ben- after school care. However, have fun, engaging hands-on school, afterschool and summer medical impairments. Overall, efits and continue your health more needs to be done to reach learning opportunities after learning programs. They are also we use a five-step evaluation care coverage during a trial work out to the 65,000-plus kids who school.” urging their congressional mem- process to decide whether you period. For information about are on their own after the last Locally, the YMCA of bers not to divert or deny funds are disabled. The process con- Social Security’s work incen- school bell rings. These chil- Honolulu, partners with the for afterschool programs. siders any current work activity tives and how they can help you you are doing. It also considers return to work, you should: your medical condition and how • Visit our special work site at it affects your ability to work. To www.socialsecurity.gov/work; be found disabled: • See the “Red Book” on • You must be unable to do work incentives at www.so- work you did before you be- cialsecurity.gov/redbook; came disabled and we must • Call our toll-free number at decide you cannot adjust to 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1- other work because of your 800-325-0778); or medical condition; and • Contact your local Social • Your disability must last, or Security office (www.so- be expected to last, for at cialsecurity.gov/locator). least one year or to result in death. For more information, go on- line to: www.socialsecurity.gov or Social Security pays only call toll free: 1-800-772-1213 for total disability. We do not pay (TTY 1-800-325-0778). OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 7 IMMIGRATION GUIDE Petitioning Overstaying Non-Immediate Relatives Could Lead to Deportation visa is immediately available for Molina, 25 I&N Dec 606, de- I-130 petition to accord him sec- Act (CSPA), INA § 203(h)(1) to such relative and the immediate cided on October 6, 2011 by the ond-preference classification as his age at the time of his By Atty. Emmanuel relative can adjust status to law- Board of Immigration Appeals the minor child of a lawful per- mother’s naturalization. Samonte Tipon ful permanent resident. The only (BIA) which decides appeals manent resident (2A preference risk is where such immediate rel- from, among others, decisions of category) under INA § Alien who reaches 21 no mmediate rela- ative is ineligible to adjust status Immigration Judges. 203(a)(2)(A). On March 22, longer immediate relative tives,” in immi- because such relative is ineligi- Form I-130 which is used to 2007, USCIS approved the peti- The Immigration Judge (IJ), gration law, are ble for admission or is de- petition for an alien relative re- tion with an August 5, 2004 pri- held that the alien was remov- the spouse, child portable for violation of the quires that the petitioning relative ority date. On July 24, 2009, able since he conceded remov- “I (under 21), and immigration laws. indicate the name, address, immi- when the alien was 22 years old ability. The IJ rejected the alien’s parents of a U.S. On the other hand, petition- gration status, authorized period and before his priority date be- argument that he was eligible to citizen (USC). ing by a USC or a Lawful Per- of stay, and other information came current, his mother natu- adjust his status as an immediate They are not subject to the nu- manent Resident (LPR) for a about the relative being peti- ralized. relative, holding that he was in- merical limits on immigrant non-immediate relative who en- tioned. If USCIS personnel find eligible because an alien’s bio- visas under Immigration and Na- tered the U.S. on a nonimmi- that the alien has overstayed they Alien beneficiary charged logical age on the date of the tionality Act (INA) § grant visa but stayed beyond the will report it to the Department of with overstaying alien parent’s naturalization con- 201(b)(2)(A)(i). All others are authorized period generally in- Homeland Security (DHS) who Meanwhile, on January 23, trols whether an alien is an “im- non-immediate relatives, such as volves a great risk of deporta- will initiate removal proceedings 2008, DHS charged Zamora mediate relative,” and that the a USC’s adult unmarried child, tion. Generally, since there is no against the alien under INA § with removability for remaining alien did not qualify as an im- adult married child, and brothers visa immediately available for 237(a)(1)(B), 8 USC in the U.S. longer than permit- mediate relative because he was and sisters, and an LPR’s spouse, such non-immediate relative, 1227(a)(1)(B) for remaining in ted. He conceded removability 22 years old when his mother minor children, and adult un- he/she cannot adjust status, un- the U.S. longer than permitted. but moved for termination of the naturalized. The Judge said that married children. They are sub- less the petition has been pend- Zamora was admitted to the proceedings, arguing that he was when the alien’s mother natural- ject to quota restrictions. ing for a long time such that the U.S. on July 7, 2000 when he eligible to adjust his status under ized, since he was over 21 years Petitioning by a USC for an priority date has been reached was 13 years old on a B-2 INA § 245(a) as the child of a old, he was accorded first pref- immediate relative who entered and a visa has become available. (tourist) non-immigrant visa USC. He claimed that although erence classification as a unmar- the U.S. on a nonimmigrant visa Here is the danger of peti- with authorization to remain in he was over 21 years old, he ried son of a USC under INA § but stayed beyond the authorized tioning for overstaying non-im- the U.S. until January 5, 2001. could retain his status as a 203(a)(1). However, a visa was period generally involves little mediate relatives as shown in the On August 5, 2004 when he was “child” by applying the formula not yet immediately available to risk of deportation because a case of Matter of Zamora- 17 years old, his mother filed an in the Child Status Protection (continued on page 8) 8 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011 PHILIPPINE NEWS open mind on the issue. Noy Rejects State Honors for Marcos “That is why for me he has by Aurea Calica wasted a very good opportunity to unify the nation. The work of Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011 gan ng mga Bayani. They said president of the country, he was a Marcos deserved a hero’s burial dictator and he had never been a the President is not to play parti- ANILA, Philippines - at the Libingan because he had good president because he plun- san politics but to unite the nation There will be no state been a war hero and a president. dered the nation. His dictatorship and that is apparently not his ten- Mhonors for the late Marcos’ supporters revived destroyed the country’s econ- dency,” Marcos said. dictator Ferdinand Marcos under calls for him to be buried at the omy,” Rosales said of Marcos. “He would like to continue the Aquino administration if and Libingan after former military “He cannot qualify for full what divisions we have in our when his family finally decides chief Angelo Reyes, who com- military honors because his mil- country. He obviously does not to bury him. mitted suicide last February at itary medals are fake. No less want to heal those divisions. He President Aquino made this the height of a Senate investiga- than the US and the late former wants to widen those divisions, clear yesterday, saying it would tion into military corruption, was congressman Boni (Bonifacio) which just brings us to the con- be “the height of injustice” to interred at the cemetery. Gillego, a war veteran himself, clusion that he is not a natural martial law victims to have the Binay recommended mili- had proven that Marcos’ alleged leader,” he added. late strongman accorded state tary honors for Marcos but not a medals are fake,” Rosales said. “I am very disappointed that honors. state funeral or hero’s burial at She said the Marcos family we cannot count on our Presi- Aquino earlier ruled out a the Libingan ng mga Bayani. He should show respect to the late dent to have one word. I cannot burial for Marcos at the Libingan also said the Marcoses had Pres. Aquino (top photo) and the dictator by burying him silently count on our President to exer- ng mga Bayani. agreed to bury the late president remains of Marcos in Ilocos Norte in Ilocos Norte. cise and exhibit leadership, uni- “We have so many victims of in their hometown in Batac, Ilo- “I hope the Marcos family fying our country,” Marcos said. the martial law years who have cos Norte but this was denied by sake to death by musketry for re- would do what they ought to do. Senate President Juan Ponce not gotten even a recognition for- the Marcos family. bellion. After years in incarcera- Bury him silently, with dignity, Enrile, who had been a defense mally from the government and “With regards to the Marcos tion, the elder Aquino was in Ilocos Norte. You cannot give minister under Marcos, took a they were victims. They have not burial, you know, in all honesty – allowed by Marcos to undergo a him military honors. For one to calmer stance on the issue. been accorded an apology, the and I think I will have to commu- heart operation in the US where be given full military honors, for “You have to understand compensation bill is still pending, nicate this to the Vice President, I he eventually chose to remain in a former president for that mat- that that is a very sensitive issue and it would be really I think the apologize, he’s been doing the exile. His assassination upon his ter, you have to be a good presi- as far as the two families are height of injustice to render any study on my behalf; he had a rec- return to the Philippines in 1983 dent first. He has never been a concerned and I would under- honors to the person who was the ommendation – and it was re- by soldiers triggered almost daily good president and his alleged stand the feelings of the Presi- direct mastermind of all their suf- cently called to my attention protest actions that led to the war medals are fake,” Rosales dent, he is the son of the man fering,” Aquino told a gathering again. So I think I will not, I am 1986 people power revolution reiterated. who was slain and I think we of local and foreign newsmen at sanctioning – not under my watch that toppled the dictatorship. have to understand him and re- the Mandarin Oriental hotel yes- – a (state) burial for the late Pres- Marcos died three years ‘Zarzuela’ spect his feelings,” Enrile said. terday. ident Marcos,” Aquino said. later in exile in Hawaii. His body Sen. Marcos said Aquino “You know that’s a natural Marcos’ senator son and “And I think you cannot di- is on display in a glass coffin in had taken them for a ride with reaction of a son who loves his namesake lambasted Aquino for vorce what happened during the his hometown in Batac. his earlier directive to Binay to father. You cannot take that the decision, saying “the Presi- martial law years with the total- “We will have to respect look into calls for a state burial away. That will linger on,” he dent has wasted a very good op- ity of his public life. And it him. That is our President. We for the late dictator. added. portunity to unify the nation.” serves as a wrong message – de- just have to respect him. As our “It is very hard to deal in Marcos loyalist lawyer The chief of staff of former first means the honors given to others President, we must respect his good faith with somebody who Oliver Lozano said he accepts lady Imelda Marcos said the sen- of a similar nature – to render the decision,” Binay told reporters. does not have one word on the Aquino’s decision with sadness. ator has been designated family same to a person that has in- “It is the prerogative of the Pres- subject. It turns out that all of “We disagree but we respect spokesman on the issue. Mrs. flicted such suffering on our ident and we must all accept, re- these discussions and debates the decision of President Marcos is reportedly confined in people after having promised to spect and support his decision.” were nothing more than a Aquino,” Lozano told The an undisclosed hospital. serve them,” Aquino said. Commission on Human zarzuela,” Marcos told Senate STAR in a telephone interview. Aquino had tasked Vice The President’s father was Rights chair Loretta Ann Ros- reporters. He said giving Marcos a President Jejomar Binay to study Marcos’s arch political enemy. ales, who figured prominently in He recalled that the Presi- hero’s burial is one of the duties calls by the family and supporters A military court during the the anti-Marcos struggle, lauded dent had even promised voters in of the Armed Forces of the of the late strongman that he be Marcos regime sentenced Aquino’s decision. Northern Luzon – the bailiwick Philippines to one of its own. buried with honors at the Libin- Aquino’s late father and name- “Although he became a of the Marcoses – to have an (continued on page 11)

IMMIGRATION GUIDE (from page 7, PETITIONING....) tive, and that INA § 204(k)(2) petition according the child 2A the child’s arrival when he was did not allow the alien to retain preference status and who sub- still in legal status? Why did the him, hence he could not adjust Visa Bulletin. his 2A-preference status (minor sequently naturalizes. In that parent file the petition after the his status. A visa is “immedi- The BIA affirmed, holding child of LPR) after his mother case § 201(f)(2) applies and the child had overstayed for 4 years? ately available” when an alien’s that INA § 201(f)(2) precluded naturalized. The BIA explained determination whether the alien Did not the parent realize that the priority date is earlier than the the alien, who was over 21 when that under § 201(f)(1) if the child qualifies as a “child” shall be child would be caught overstay- date for the specified preference his mother naturalized, from of a USC is under 21 when a made using the age of the alien ing? Why did not the parent nat- category shown in the current qualifying as an immediate rela- visa petition is filed, he retains on the date of the parent’s natu- uralize before petitioning for the his classi- ralization. The BIA said that an child so that he would have been fication as alien cannot “opt out” of the au- an immediate relative? an imme- tomatic conversion of the 2A- diate rela- preference category to first (ATTY. TIPON has a Master of Laws tive even preference category when the degree from Yale Law School and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the Uni- after turn- parent becomes naturalized, al- versity of the Philippines. Office: 800 ing 21, but though an alien could “opt out” Bethel St., Suite 402, Honolulu, HI this provi- of the automatic conversion of a 96813. Tel. (808) 225-2645. E-Mail: fil- [email protected]. Websites: sion is in- 2B-preference category to first www.MilitaryandCriminalLaw.com, applicable preference category when the andwww.ImmigrationServicesUSA.com. to the parent naturalizes. Listen to the most witty, interesting, and child of an informative radio program in Hawaii COMMENT: on KNDI at 1270, AM dial every Thurs- LPR who Why did not day at 7:30 a.m., rebroadcast at has filed a the parent file a visa petition upon www.iluko.com.) OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 9 TRAVEL & TOURISM Lechon in Iceland? Are You Kidding? By Ethan Belmonte

ANILA, Philip- burgh, UK), my pines - Pinoy cui- dining experience sine, as delicious at Harry’s during as it is, is seldom my family’s sum- M represented mer trip to Europe around the world. was comforting Sure, you might find a Tito and delightful to Tip of the iceberg: Harry’s Restaurant skyrocketed to the top Rad’s in a Filipino-populated say the least. of the Reykjavik restaurant charts on the travel website neighborhood in Queens, NY, The story of TripAdvisor, sitting at the No. 2 spot. It is a small Filipino restaurant in downtown Reykjavik, the capital of Iceland, or a Jollibee or two in a few Harry’s began sev- owned and operated by husband-wife tandem Kristjan and suburbs in San Francisco, CA. eral months after Lolong Kristjansson. Lechon kawali, Iceland-style But compared to prominent the unlikely meeting of Kris long hard at work, often been prepared in Aling Lor- meal, I went on TripAdvisor to Asian culinary counterparts — a native of Iceland — and preparing meals for five or ing’s. The lumpia (which Kris write a rave review about my China, Japan, or even Thai- his soon-to-be-wife Lolong in more groups at the same time. brought to the table while we experience and saw — to no land, Pinoy food, undeserv- the Philippines. After living in Among the dishes we waited for our main courses) surprise — that Kris had taken ingly, falls behind the rest on Lolong’s home in Marikina, sampled was a lechon kawali was tasty and addictive. The the time to respond to every re- the international buffet table. the couple migrated back to plate, complete with vinegar lamb was succulent and view of his restaurant. Enter Harry’s, a small Fil- Reykjavik, and despite some and toyo (can you just imag- spiced perfectly. Our meal My brothers and I often ipino restaurant in downtown financial struggles due to the ine having lechon in Iceland, was, in essence, Pinoy home- talk about people who have Reykjavik, the capital of Ice- ongoing economic crisis in of all places?). We also had a cooking at its best. “figured it out” — people land. Come again? Pinoy food the country, Harry’s was born. platter of lumpia Shanghai, Towards the end of our who take only what they need in Iceland? Well, Harry’s, The first thing I noticed and a Pinoy-influenced lamb meal, we noticed Kris politely from the world. People who owned and operated by hus- upon walking into Harry’s dish that my mother still re- turn down several potential don’t believe in the equation band-wife tandem Kristjan was how simple it was for gards as her favorite meal of customers from dining that “money = happiness.” After and Lolong Kristjansson, has such a highly-rated restaurant the trip. The verdict? The food evening. Confused at first (as our experience at Harry’s, our quietly skyrocketed to the top — six to seven tables were was great. More impressively, there were obviously several unanimous verdict was that of the Reykjavik restaurant comfortably spaced around it was surprisingly authentic: tables vacant), we realized that Mr. and Mrs. Kristjansson charts on the popular travel the restaurant, paintings of the pork was rich and juicy, he had done this to ease the have, indeed, figured it out. website TripAdvisor, sitting at Filipino landscapes hung on and tasted like it could’ve workload on Lolong. After our (www.philstar.com) the No. 2 position at the time the walls, and a small, modest of writing after spending kitchen was positioned on the months at No. 1. Known for side. Upon entering, we were its “friendly atmosphere, un- greeted by Kristjansson, who complicated menu, and well- serves as the owner, manager prepared food” (says a user and waiter of the joint. Peer- named “costbox” from Edin- ing into the kitchen, I saw Lo- 10 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Pacquiao vs. Marquez Set for November 12 anny “Pacman” Pacquiao will defend his World M Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight crown against Juan Manuel Marquez on November 12, 2011 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The highly-anticipated grudge match will be the third in a series of very definition (SD) or stunning high defini- close fights between the two boxers. The tion (HD) by calling 1-800-982-5553. first match ended in a draw, followed by a The fight will be shown at 9 pm Pacific close split decision victory by Pacquiao. Standard Time (PST) or 12 midnight Always the gentleman fighter, Pacquiao Hawaii time. speaks highly of Marquez. DIRECTV also offers Filipino view- “Juan is the only opponent I have ers with ten TV channels including TFC, fought who was able to anticipate many of GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life, Cinema One my moves and effectively counter most of Global, ABS-CBN News Channel, Ka- them,” Pacquiao says. pamilya Channel, MYX, Gem Net, Boxing fans will be able to watch the DZMM and DWRR. bout live on DIRECTV in either standard

Paulo Avelino embracing Rocco Nacino in a scene from The Dance of Two Left Feet Filipino Films to Premiere at Intl Film Fest overcome tragedy. There will be a Q&A session with the cast and crew he 31st Hawaii International Film who will share their experiences Festival (HIFF), sponsored by while working on the film. T Halekulani Hotels & Resorts, will • “The Woman in the Septic Tank”— premiere several Filipino films as part of directed by Marlon Rivera, this the Asian Showcase category. The films comedic film documents the trials include: and tribulations of three ambitious • “The Dance of Two Left Feet”— film school graduates as they set out This beautiful and moving film fea- to make an Oscar-worthy movie. tures poems from Filipino feminists This film has been selected as the that are intertwined with dances high- Philippines’ entry for next year's lighted in the film. The story centers Academy Award for Best Foreign- on Marlon who hires a classmate to Language Film. teach him to dance so that he can im- • “Busong”—This film about the riv- press their teacher. When their friend- eting tales of tribal life is directed by ship becomes strained, it is through Auraeus Solito. The story is culled dance that they can express what they from a number of indigenous myths cannot say in words. and beliefs and focuses on • “Thelma”—directed by Paul Soriano Angkarang as he travels with his sis- and starring Maja Salvador, the film ter Punay in search of a cure for the is an inspirational drama about the sores that cover her body. life of Thelma, a tomboyish young • “Star-Crossed Love”—directed by girl who must use her natural gifts of Erick Salud, this romantic comedy is speed and strength to help her family (continued on page 11) OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 11 PHILIPPINE NEWS PNoy: Gov't to File Case vs Arroyo by November by Angelo L. Gutierrez predecessor. cline to divulge the people in- China’s ZTE Corp. Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011 He said that they fear that volved in the investigation and Bayan Muna and Akbayan possible witnesses "might be what are the developments on party-list group had also filed ANILA, Philippines gotten to from now until No- the probe. separate plunder cases against - President Benigno vember." He said it would be He assured that Aquino has Mrs. Arroyo for the alleged MAquino III today an- easier for his administration to strict instructions to the Depart- misuse of funds of the Philip- nounced that his administration gather evidence and witnesses if ment of Justice to pursue the pine Charity Sweepstakes Of- will file charges against former they would remain quiet on the cases. fice. President and now Pampanga details of the investigation. The ailing former president Two plunder complaints Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo "So I don't think it would be is already facing at least six were filed by former solicitor by November. prudent on our part to give de- plunder charges before the De- general Frank Chavez including "With regards to filing tails as to which charges, and partment of Justice and the Of- the so-called fertilizer fund charges, the latest information we're not even saying that it's fice of the Ombudsman, which scam that involved the alleged that I have is by November we necessary a corruption charge The Arroyos, Mike and Gloria were filed by various groups diversion of more than P730 will be filing charges," Aquino that will be the first one that will from various sectors for the since she stepped down from million in government funds to announced in a press confer- be filed," Aquino added. Aquino administration to fulfill Malacañang in 2010. the former president's campaign ence with foreign media in Last month, Budget Secre- its promise of holding the past Her husband, former first kitty in 2004 and the alleged di- Makati City. tary Florencio Abad said that at administration accountable for gentleman Jose Miguel Arroyo, version of P550 million kept by Aquino, however, did not least two major cases may be various crimes, including cor- is also facing various charges the Overseas Workers Welfare say what specific cases and on filed against former President ruption. and investigations, one of Administration to Philhealth what basis will be the charges Arroyo before December. He is- Abad said that a group is which was based on the Philip- during the 2004 presidential that will be filed against his sued the statement amid calls "doing work on that" but de- pine National Police's purchase campaign. of two second-hand helicopters The other plunder com- (from page 8, NOY....) law. For heaven’s sake, they “Marcos is the true icon of in 2009. plaint was filed by Danilo Li- Lozano said the Marcos should stop peddling lies like democracy for declaring martial The latest plunder case haylihay for the past family can afford a decent and what they did in the Plaza Mi- law,” Cobarrubias said. against against the former pres- administration's alleged failure honorable burial for the former randa bombing. No less than ident was filed by Bayan Muna to remit the P72-million capital president, even without help former senator Jovito Salonga Best interest of Phl Rep. Teodoro Casiño last gains tax from the sale of the from the AFP. wrote in his book that the Plaza The AFP said it respects the old Iloilo City airport to Mega- “We do not want to appear Miranda bombing was a handi- President’s decision and ex- month. The complaint, filed world. mendicant if the government work of the NPA and not Mr. pressed confidence it would ben- before the Office of the Om- Mrs. Arroyo and her hus- will refuse to provide the mili- Marcos,” Cherry Cobarrubias efit the country. budsman, was in connection tary honors,” Lozano said. told The STAR. Cobarrubias “We respect the decision of with the allegedly graft-ridden band are also being implicated He had earlier proposed a chairs the True Marcos Loyalist the President not to allow a state $329-million National Broad- in the alleged massive electoral mountain tomb for Marcos in movement. burial for the late President Mar- band Network deal with fraud in 2007. (www.philstar.com) Batac or in any place in Ilocos “It was not Marcos who tor- cos. We fully trust the wisdom of Norte. tured, if they were indeed tor- his decision which is for the best “A mountain tomb or shrine tured, but the military. It was not interest of the Filipino people,” F O R L E A S E - O F F I C E S P A C E S will also feature a chapel where Mr. Marcos who arrested them, AFP spokesman Col. Arnulfo CONVENIENTLY LOCATED IN THE HEART OF WAIPAHU. visitors can pray, and a museum but the military,” she said. Burgos Jr. said. EASY ACCESS TO THE FREEWAY. NEAR BUS STOP. which will showcase memora- Cobarrubias said Marcos But a source, who requested VARIOUS SIZES AVAILABLE: bilia, and the blueprint of the declared martial law “precisely anonymity, said military rules former president to make the to preserve and protect democ- entitle former presidents and sol- 132, 230, 280, 524 (IN SQ. FT.) Philippines a great nation,” he racy against the communists.” diers to burial at the Libingan ng said. “The so-called Marcos vic- mga Bayani. CALL 678-8930 OR 753-9434 FOR DETAILS He claimed that more than tims are not victims of martial The Marcos family said the 200 congressmen had declared law. They are leftists, commu- late president was a World War Marcos a hero, in a resolution. nists. They should be the one to II veteran and was part of guer- He also cited the AFP’s inclu- apologize to the people. Their rilla forces that fought the Japan- sion of Marcos in its list of dis- bosses are still there. They are ese colonizers. tinguished members. the ones who should apologize, Marcos claimed to have re- Another Marcos loyalist not only to Mr. Marcos, but to ceived around 300 war medals said the New People’s Army, the Filipino people. They are not including the US Congressional and not Marcos, should apolo- the victims. Mr. Marcos is their Medal of Honor. But the claim gize to the people. victim. Mr. Marcos only did his was questioned in a series of ar- “A communist takeover work as the president to protect ticles published by the We was on our doorstep when Pres- the Philippines from a commu- Forum newspaper in 1982. ident Marcos declared martial nist takeover,” she said. (www.philstar.com)

HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS (cont.) (from page 10, FILIPINO...) about a naive student who must put aside downs of life as a musician. emotional needs when he finds himself in a no-strings-attached sexual relationship with The HIFF will feature a total of 216 films the most beautiful girl in school. from 43 different countries and will be held at • “Rakenrol”—directed by Quark Henares, the Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18 Theatres & this comedy for music lovers tells the story IMAX from October 13-23, 2011. of Odie and Irene, two friends who build a Tickets are on sale and may be purchased in friendship upon their mutual love of obscure person at the Regal Dole Cannery Stadium 18 garage rock bands. When the two decide to Theatres & IMAX or by phone at 447-0577. For form their own band, the audience is taken show times or more details, please go online and on a hilarious journey through the ups and visit: www.hifforg. 12 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011 FAMILY CORNER Essential Language Skills: Reading development of reading skills. what is being written. Your child wants to be like Preschool-aged children are typ- • Reading aloud road signs, you and will likely copy ically interested in learning the labels, and advertisements. what you do. When you letters in their own names. They read, you demonstrate that often write line after line of Here are other things you you value learning and that By Grace Fong, Ed.D. and Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. squiggles as they try to write can do to encourage your child’s reading is enjoyable. etween the ages of ers. You can help your child de- their names. Sometimes they interest in reading: 3 and 5, com- velop these skills by: enjoy finding and learning the • Tell him stories about your Reading aloud with chil- monly referred to • Reading aloud to him every names of individual letters. But, own life. Make up or tell dren—from the time they are as the preschooler day for at least 10 minutes, they are not particularly inter- traditional stories you heard born through school age, and B years, children using a variety of books in- ested in the order of letters in the as a child. even when they can read on their make rapid cluding stories, rhymes, po- alphabet. You can encourage • Look at picture books with own—is one of the most effec- progress in developing early lan- etry, and nonfiction. your child’s interest in letters and your child and make up sto- tive ways you (or a care giver) guage skills—listening, speak- • Letting him talk about the words by: ries about them together. can help them learn to read and ing, reading, and writing. These pictures or help you tell the • Showing him the letters that This helps your child learn comprehend what they are read- are important skills that work to- story; older children can form his name and the that books tell stories, sto- ing. One clear benefit of reading gether to help children express “read” simple stories to you. names of people or things ries begin at the front of the aloud is that children develop themselves and communicate • Rereading a book when that are important to him. book, are sequential, and stronger language skills. They their ideas. Young children’s your child asks you to. • Playing letter games like logical, and storytelling is learn many new words. They early experiences with lan- • Talking with your child and "find all the ‘T’s’ on this fun. learn to ask questions about the guage—hearing it, practicing asking questions about the page," or "let's think of ani- • Create your own simple story. They make a connection speaking it, seeing it in print and stories you read, for exam- mals that begin with the let- books that you can read to- between pictures and words. As other forms, practicing writing ple: “What do you think ter ‘t’." gether. Let your child draw an added bonus, the time you it—have a tremendous impact will happen next?” or, at the • Encouraging your child to some pictures on several spend together reading builds on how well they acquire these end of the story: “What was send letters to friends and sheets of paper and ask him strong emotional bonds between essential language skills over your favorite part?” relatives. Write down what to tell you about the pictures. you and your child. Make time time. • Making stories “come he wants to say while he Write down what he says on each day to pick up a book and Reading is one of the most alive” for your child as you watches you write. Read his each sheet. Staple or tie the read together. valuable skills a child can learn. read by changing the tone of letter back to him before pages together. Read his de- Reading helps to develop cu- your voice to match the mailing it. scriptions as you go through GRACE FONG is the Interim Director riosity, imagination, and think- mood of the story, for ex- • Encouraging your child to the book together. Encour- of the Center on the Family, and watch family members as age him to tell you the story SYLVIA YUEN is the Interim Dean of ing skills. Children are ready to ample, using a loud voice the College of Tropical Agriculture and read at different ages. Before when there is a lot of action they write shopping lists or of his pictures. Human Resources at the University of they actually learn to read, chil- or a quiet voice when some- notes, and talking about • Show an interest in reading. Hawaii at Manoa. dren must learn skills like thing sad or scary is hap- matching sounds with letters and pening. PHILIPPINE NEWS figuring out how letters are com- • Keeping books where he bined to form written words. can reach them to look at Top 3 Health Concerns: Poor Air, Preschool-aged children are still when he wants to. developing many reading-re- to poor air quality. Smoking is lated skills like enjoying books, Knowing the letters of the Alcohol, Trauma the primary source of poor air seeing the connection between alphabet and reading are two by Sheila Crisostomo quality indoors while particu- spoken and written language, different skills. Learning about Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011 late matter pollution emanating and talking and listening to oth- letters and words helps with later from the transport sector, from ANILA, Philippines industries and factories are the - Health Secretary major sources of poor outdoor M Enrique Ona cited air quality,” he added. three health concerns presently Ona also claimed that there confronting the country in a has been a rise in alcohol use meeting of the World Health among Filipinos 15 to 19 years Organization (WHO)-Western old. Pacific Region Office. “The harmful use of alco- Ona told the committee hol results in a considerable meeting of the WHO-Western Health Secretary Enrique Ona proportion of crime, violence, Pacific in its regional office in injuries, deaths and a lot of Manila last Monday that the tional medicine, non-commu- problems for health. We need three health concerns are poor nicable diseases, health sur- to enjoin society and relevant air quality, alcohol and trauma. veillance and budget, among sectors in reducing the access “These problems are not others. of minors to alcohol by sup- new and it’s indeed commend- Health ministers and ex- porting pricing and sales re- able that we are starting to rec- perts from the Western Pacific striction policies. Likewise, we ognize their significance in our countries attended the meeting. need to continue promoting the effort to promote public Ona said poor air quality adoption of healthy lifestyles health,” he noted. has been the major cause of among the citizens,” he added. The four-day WHO meet- hospitalization and deaths from He also expressed concern ing discussed current health is- respiratory and cardiovascular over injuries and trauma in the sues in the region like dengue, diseases. country that have “greatly in- antimicrobial resistance, tradi- “A lot of factors contribute (continued on page 13) OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 13 LEGAL NOTES Abandonment of Permanent Resident ing a U.S. driver’s license. have abandoned status just be- ing oneself as a nonresident Status Generally, absence from the cause of the duration of his/her alien for tax purposes raises a re- should be aware of the require- U.S. for more than one year is stay/s abroad. However, it is still buttable presumption that an ment to maintain that status. considered abandonment of res- not a guarantee of admission and LPR has abandoned that status. Most LPRs who reside or idence. However, the test is not the LPR may be asked to give Furthermore, LPRs should not By Reuben S. Seguritan make frequent trips outside the the length of time spent abroad proof that there was no abandon- overlook the requirement of fil- or many people, U.S. do so because of employ- but whether the LPR intended to ment of residence. ing U.S. tax returns even while obtaining a green ment, school, business, medical be abroad only temporarily. Maintenance of permanent living abroad. card is the fruit of reasons, or other family mem- As a rule, a visit is tempo- residence is also important for Still, an LPR has certain a long and arduous bers’ immigration status. They rary if it is for a relatively short naturalization purposes. One of rights, including the right to due F struggle. But once must remember, however, to period which is fixed by some the requirements in a citizenship process. For instance, where they become law- maintain a continuous and unin- early event or if the LPR had a application is continuous resi- his/her status is challenged as ful permanent residents (LPR), terrupted intention to return to the continuous uninterrupted inten- dence in the United States for at having been abandoned, the they sometimes make the mis- United States because failure to tion to return to the U.S. during least 3 or 5 years. The applicant LPR has the right to have that take of thinking that they can do so may result in a loss of that the entire time of the visit. The must not have, within the last 3 issue determined by a judge. It is freely travel in and out of the status through abandonment. LPR upon re-entry may demon- or 5 years, been outside of the important to note that even country. Still some believe that Having the intent is not strate the reasons for staying U.S. for one year or more. Ab- while in removal proceedings, if they wait a few more years enough and the LPR must be abroad by showing legal and sences less than 6 months gener- the LPR remains a permanent they are already eligible to be- ready to prove it through suffi- medical records, school records, ally do not break continuous resident and continues to be so come naturalized U.S. citizens. cient evidence. Some of the cir- employment letter, and affi- residence, while absences more until a final administrative order It is easy to forget that law- cumstances that may davits, as may be applicable. than 6 months but less than 1 is issued that changes that status. ful permanent residence gives demonstrate ties to the United A reentry permit is a travel year raise a rebuttable presump- one the privilege of being able to States include home ownership, document issued by the USCIS to tion of abandonment of resi- REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has been reside in the United States on a maintenance of a U.S. bank ac- those who expect to spend dence. practicing law for over 30 years. For permanent basis. It is not a legal count, family ties in the U.S., lengthy periods of time abroad. It With or without a re-entry further information, you may call him right but a privilege that can be employment, business or prop- is generally valid for two years. permit, and regardless of the at (212) 695 5281 or log on to his web- revoked, which is why one erties in the U.S., and maintain- The LPR will not be deemed to length of stay abroad, classify- site at www.seguritan.com PHILIPPINE NEWS Aquino: Stimulus Package Not to Hurt Fiscal Health from www.philstar.com growing," Mr. Aquino said on year's fiscal deficit at P300 bil- ferent agencies that will be uti- threatening global recovery. Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011 Wednesday's briefing organized lion, equivalent to three percent lizing the funds. The natural disasters that ANILA, Philippines by the Foreign Correspondents of the country's GDP. The coun- "Going beyond that might rocked Japan and the political (Xinhua) - President Association of the Philippines try's budget gap for the months not be productive at this point in turmoil in the Middle East and M Aquino said that the (FOCAP). of January to August narrowed time," he said. North African countries exacer- P72 billion stimulus package Mr. Aquino said that the to P34.5 billion, from last year's Thanks to its strong funda- bated global economic woes. would cushion the economy stimulus package, which will fi- P228.10 billion on back of in- mentals, the Philippines is one Philippine export revenues from the impact of an uncertain nance reconstruction plans and creased tax collections and pru- of the few countries that stayed are on a downtrend for the past global recovery, but assured that infrastructure projects, will be dent government spending. resilient amid global recessions. few months owing to lower de- this will not be done at the ex- financed by government sav- According to the President, This year, the eurozone mand from major export mar- pense of the country's fiscal ings and not by additional bor- whether the government will debt crisis and the sluggish US kets of Japan, the United States health. rowing that may widen the extend another stimulus pack- growth are not the only factors and European Union. "We will do what we can country's deficit. age would depend on two within the bounds of fiscal pru- The country's economic things: government savings and dence to keep the economy managers have programmed this the absorptive capacity of dif-

(from page 12, TOP 3....) grams have been strengthened creased over the decade to be- across the region,” he added. come the top three to top four Shin cautioned that such leading causes of death annu- gains could be reversed “if the ally, among both adults and challenge of antimicrobial re- children in the country.” sistance is not tackled collec- “Transport related crashes, tively.” assault, accidental drowning He cited multi-drug resist- and fall are the major recorded ance “to the most effective causes of deaths among all anti-malaria drugs and to first- ages. Pedestrians comprise Air pollution from the transport and second-line of tuberculosis more than 50 percent of all sector treatments.” deaths, followed by motorcycle countries with rampant malaria “We now need to turn po- and pedal bike users,” he said. cases in the region have al- litical recognition into concrete Dr. Shin Young-soo, WHO ready formulated national action. This is particularly so in director for the Western Pa- elimination plans. low-resource settings, where cific, said that the region has “Prevention and treatment the impact of this rising tide of made progress in the health of HIV/AIDS have improved non-communicable diseases is area. in most parts of our Region. felt the hardest,” he main- He claimed that nine of 10 And tuberculosis control pro- tained. (www.philstar.com) 14 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011 MAINLAND NEWS U.S. Senate Passes Bill to Sanction China Over Currency from www.philstar.com companion measure has the spon- The bill also makes it easier for Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2011 sorship of more than half the mem- specific industries to petition the bers but lacks the support of the Commerce Department for redress ASHINGTON (AP) majority Republican leadership. if they believe an exchange rate is — The Senate voted House Speaker John Boehner, giving a foreign competitor the W Tuesday to threaten the top Republican in the lower equivalent of an export subsidy. China with higher tariffs on Chinese chamber, like the many large multi- The drive to punish China for products made cheap through an ar- national companies that oppose the its currency practices has been tificially undervalued currency, legislation, has said it would be dan- going on for years, led by conserva- which lawmakers blame for de- gerous to dictate another country's tives such as Graham and Demo- stroying American jobs. The House currency policies, and he can prevent $273 billion last year, delivering efforts that China, the U.S. and the cratic liberals such as Brown and of Representatives, though, is un- the bill from ever being considered. painful blows to U.S. manufacturers international community have made Chuck Schumer of New York. They likely to take up the bill, which House Majority Leader Eric and their employees. to enable a strong recovery and the have generally been discouraged by some American businesses warn Cantor, also a Republican, said Tues- "This is a country manipulating growth of the global economy." the Obama administration, and the could trigger a trade war. day that the White House should its currency for an advantage in the He called on "the U.S. govern- Bush administration before it, The 63-35 vote showed a broad make its position clear before the export market," said Republican ment, Congress and the public to which cautioned against unilateral bipartisan consensus that it is time House acts. The White House and Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Car- resolutely oppose the use of domes- sanctions and appealed for time to to end diplomatic niceties with President Barack Obama have not olina. "The Chinese manipulation of tic legislation to hype and exert bring about Chinese cooperation China and confront it over its ag- come out against the bill but have the yuan has cost this country at pressure over the renminbi ex- through diplomatic channels. gressive trade policies. shown they are uncomfortable with least 2 million jobs — 41,000 in change rate issue, and to resist pro- There has been some apprecia- "There are always people who it, saying they are concerned about South Carolina — and it is an unfair tectionism, resist the erroneous tion of the yuan in the past year, but don't want to stand up to China, and any legislation that might violate in- trade practice in another name." politicizing of economic and trade not enough to satisfy those who say I think they are, frankly, undercut- ternational trade rules. In Beijing, Chinese Foreign issues, and maintain the sound de- it is still heavily undervalued in ting our ability to stop the hemor- Advocates for the bill say it Ministry spokesman Ma Zhaoxu velopment of the Sino-U.S. eco- China's favor. rhaging in our manufacturing jobs," will make American goods more criticized the Senate vote on the cur- nomic and trade relations." The Chinese have made their said Democratic Sen. Sherrod competitive and support more than rency issue in a statement posted to The vote came as Congress opposition to the Senate bill clear, Brown of Ohio, a Midwestern in- 1 million new jobs. Critics warn the ministry's website. prepared to complete work on a saying in numerous statements that dustrial state. that it will provoke Chinese retalia- "Under the pretense of address- package of free trade agreements the trade imbalance is a result of Sen. Jeff Sessions, a Republi- tion and hurt Americans in one of ing the so-called 'exchange rate im- that is also seen by their backers as U.S. economic policies and not the can from Alabama, said the bill "is their fastest-growing markets. balance,' this resolution is in fact an removing barriers to American ex- exchange rate, and that unilateral an important step towards defend- Regardless of the outcome, the act of protectionism, and seriously ports and promoting job growth. actions against China could damage ing American values, confronting debate and the vote are giving sen- violates World Trade Organization Both the House and Senate are the entirety of U.S.-China relations. China's abusive practices and pre- ators a chance to make clear to the rules," he said. "It not only cannot expected to vote Wednesday on Those range from efforts to protect venting the liquidation of American Chinese their frustrations over trade solve the problems in the U.S. econ- trade agreements with South Korea, better U.S. intellectual property manufacturing." policies that have seen China's trade omy or unemployment, but will seri- Colombia and Panama. rights in China, ending the theft of Still, the bill could die in the surplus with the United States go ously impede Sino-U.S. economic The Chinese currency, the yuan, American technology, assuring the House of Representatives, where a from $10 billion 20 years ago to and trade ties and impede the joint is undervalued against the dollar by security of Taiwan and keeping the 25 to 30 percent, according to most Korean Peninsula peaceful. estimates, with some economists But Schumer said getting China putting the difference at up to 40 per- to play by the rules "will not happen cent. That means that Chinese goods by persuasion, by multilateral talks, sold in the United States have a 25 to by wishing it were so, or even by the 30 percent price advantage, while healing of time. It will only happen if U.S. items sold in China become that America stands up for itself, for fair- much more expensive. ness, for equal treatment." Brown, whose state of Ohio Opponents argue that the cur- has been hit hard by Chinese com- rency sanctions would do little to petition, cited a tool and die shop in help the U.S. job market because Brunswick, Ohio, that was about to more expensive Chinese goods sign a $1 million contract until the would simply be replaced by goods Chinese came in at the last moment from other low-wage countries such with a bid 20 percent lower. as Vietnam and Bangladesh. And "That meant I don't know how they say companies such as Wal- many jobs that didn't stay in Amer- Mart would continue buying Chi- ica but went to China and that 20 nese items because they are deeply percent was given to them because involved in investment in China, a of currency," he said. fast-growing export market. The legislation would set in But the Alliance for American motion the imposition of higher tar- Manufacturing, a labor-management iffs on a country — China is not partnership that supports the bill, specifically mentioned in the bill — says a 28.5 percent appreciation in should the U.S. Treasury Depart- the yuan would create 2.25 million ment decide that its currency is American jobs and reduce the annual "misaligned" and the country does trade deficit by $190.5 billion. not act to correct it. Currently, "China responds to conse- Treasury must resolve that a country quences, and this legislation will is willfully manipulating its cur- make a real difference for American rency, a higher bar to reach, before workers and businesses," said the sanctions can be considered. group's executive director, Scott Paul. OCTOBER 15, 2011 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 15 COMMUNITY CALENDAR CLASSIFIED ADS BUSINESS CHILDREN'S DISCOVERY CENTER-- SUNDAY HELP WANTED: LOOKING FOR FARM FILIPINO KIDS DAY / SUNDAY November 13, 2011, 6pm ● Hilton WORKERS IN WAIANAE DIRECTORY October 16, 2011, 10am–2pm ● ● Hawaiian Village. Attire will be Filip- Please call 285-5480 For more details, please contact iniana or formal ● For more details Loretta Yajima at 524-5437 please call 398-5988 or 383-7986 EAGLE NOODLE NEED PT WORKER For appt. Call 845-2555 at 3pm-6pm ILOCOS NORTE NATIONAL HIGH PMAH OHANA MEDICAL MISSION TO SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOC. 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MAINLAND NEWS Southern Cal Pinoys Unite for incorporate these DVDs in teaching Philanthropy Project history, social studies, language arts he Southern California Filipino Letty Quizon, program development di- and even math and science, covered American community recently rector for the ABS CBN Foundation In- by a $1,500 sponsorship. The pro- T gathered for ABS CBN Foun- ternational. “We thought there was no gram is currently in 8,523 schools, dation International’s “Kwentuhan Hol- better way to launch the Kapamilya Cir- serving 4.2 million public elementary lywood” at Universal Studios. cle of Giving than by gathering around students and their teachers. Over 70 Fil-Am leaders represent- a table and sharing stories of successes According to the of Filipino ing 30 organizations discussed collabo- and lessons learned from challenges.” American Chamber of Commerce in ration and philanthropy—an initiative The group pledged to sponsor Los Angeles (FACCLA), the program rarely undertaken and successfully ABS CBN Foundation International’s is a God-send for poor Filipinos. done. These leaders are committed to educational program—a comprehen- “It not only helps to care for the im- helping their disadvantaged country- sive teacher training and curriculum mediate needs of children and impov- men through generous donations to de- enhancement program that aims to in- erished families in the Philippines but velopment programs in the Philippines. crease student achievement across all also contributes to more long-term “We have thousands of Filipino- disciplines. Primarily directed to pub- prosperity through environmental pro- American organizations working inde- lic elementary schools in the Philip- grams, education and special programs pendently to help our beloved pines, the initiative starts with a for business owners and those who RENTAL kababayans but at this event, we got to- library of 480 teaching DVDs and a want to start a business,” says Evange- gether and pledged to collaborate,” says television set. Teachers are trained to line Crowther of the FACCLA. GLOBAL NEWS 'Scrapped European Contracts Bad for Phl' by Lawrence Agcaoili tration’s penchant to cancel projects Thursday, Oct. 13, 2011 only because they were forged by the previous administration,” Suarez ANILA, Philippines - said. House Senior Deputy Mi- “All these contracts passed M nority Leader and Quezon through rigorous study and docu- Rep. Danilo Suarez yesterday mentation by both governments and warned the Aquino administration’s in some instances by multilateral in- move to cancel major projects stitutions, so you must presume reg- funded by European governments ularity and not impute malice,” he would do more harm than good to said. the country. Suarez said he received reports Suarez was reacting to com- that the Belgian firm is going to sue ments from Malacañang that the ad- the Philippines for reneging on the A Ro-Ro port in Bacolod ministration was not biased against dredging contract while the French European investments in canceling pines has already spent billions of firm was also contemplating the vessels dock if there are no Ro-Ro ports? In the or suspending several major con- pesos in litigation costs alone against same. same way, if you build roads, people will be able tracts funded by official develop- the German firm Fraport over the “Up to now, they (Malacañang) to travel and commerce will flourish,” Suarez ment assistance (ODA) just to Ninoy Aquino International Airport have not yet come up with evidence said. ensure the success of its flagship Terminal 3 project. that these contracts are tainted. This Suarez stressed all ODA contracts are gov- Public-Private Partnership program. He said the litigation costs do is really destroying the reputation of erned by internationally accepted protocols to President Aquino earlier can- not yet include compensation for the our country, that we do not honor discourage corruption. celled a multi-billion peso Belgian German firm after the government contracts,” he said. He said ODA projects are given at “over- project to dredge part of the Laguna took over the facility as well as busi- Suarez said President Aquino whelmingly low interest rates.” Lake and suspend the implementa- ness opportunity losses. was being fed wrong information on “If the country would be facing international tion of a French project to build 72 “What’s worrisome here is the the two projects by interest groups. lawsuits, we would be incurring litigation costs roll-on, roll-off (Ro-Ro) ports all backlash and subtle moves and eco- “They said there is no need for and economic losses and we would not be bene- over the country. nomic decisions made against the Ro-Ro ports because no one is using fiting from these projects,” Suarez said. Suarez pointed out the Philip- Philippines because of the adminis- those routes. Of course, how can (www.philstar.com) 16 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 15, 2011