HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK Page 2

The No.1 Foreign Newspaper Vol.XVI No.361 December 15, 2016 Filipino domestic worker Myrna Ramos seeks justice for her son, the victim of an Balikbayan boxes extra-judicial killing in Bulacan. will be tax exempt Page 6

The POLO and the Indonesian consulate agree to work together for standardized working hours for FDHs. Page 12

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Hong Kong gets more colorful this time of the year with a myriad of glitzy holiday decorations and attractions. Above is a picture of part of the Christmas installation set up by French artist Eric Giriat at the Landmark shopping mall in Central. (Philip C. Tubeza) Shenzhen’s Window By Maia Lopez from duties and taxes, Customs Commis- way for the tax exemption that will take goods sent home by OFWs from only of the World amazes sioner Nicanor Faeldon said. effect on December 25. P10,000 to P150,000. MANILA---Starting Christmas Day, all Bureau of Customs and the Department The AO is aligned with the Customs The balikbayan boxes, however, should with its own version balikbayan boxes containing valuables of Finance officials have signed Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, which of global attractions. Turn to page 11 worth up to P150,000 will be exempted Administrative Order 05, which paves the raised the tax exemption on consumer

PUBLISHED BY HK PUBLICATIONS LTD. TEL: 2851 1766 2 NEWS December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK FDH seeks justice for murdered son

By Philip C. Tubeza dle-lighting ceremony, was also held to anak ko. Hindi masasabi na drug addict sabi niya,) ‘Mga adik, tinotokhang nga mark international Human Rights Day on ang anak ko kaya ang sama ng loob ko,” sa barangay.’ E ikaw ba? (Sabi niya,) ‘E “Marami siyang tama. Tinadtad talaga December 10. she said. hindi naman ako adik. Bat ako makiki- nila.” “Anong gagawin ko? Alam kong mga “Walang kwenta ang gobyerno. Hin- tokhang?’” Ramos said. A 68-year-old Filipino domestic worker pulis ang pumatay. Anong hahabulin ko? di yan change is coming. Daming patay “Meron daw pumunta sa bahay kasi ba- in Mong Kok is seeking justice for her son Papatayin din lahat kami--mga kapatid araw-araw. Yan ba ang change is com- wat bahay kinakatok daw. Nang sinabi ko, who was killed in Bulacan in another sus- at kapitbahay ko. Walang laban,” said ing?” she added. ‘Baka ikaw” Adik din?’, nagalit sa akin pected case of extra-judicial killing (EJK). Ramos, her voice choking with emotion. Ramos said her son was selling mami kaya alam ko hindi (siya adik). Alam ko Myrna Ramos, of Tiaong, Bulacan, at- “Asan ang katarungan para sa anak ko? (noodles) along a highway in Tiaong when hindi,” she said. tended a protest against EJKs in Central Pinatay nila,” she added. four men shot him dead at around 5 p.m. “Yung kinikita niya sa mami para lang on December 11 to seek justice for her Ramos had been working in Hong Kong “May dumaan at napansin na may apat sa kanila..sa katulong. Sabi rin ng asawa, son Emerson, 41, and call for an end to since 1991 to build a better life for her na lalaki na bumibili sa kanya. Narinig na wala. Ngayon wala ng taong bahay sa the killings that have left more than 5,800 family but, on August 27, tragedy struck. lang nila binabaril. Nag-alisan na lang sila amin. Umalis na sila kasi natatakot din dead in the Philippines. “Naririto ako nun (sa Hong Kong). May sa takot na baka sila rin (barilin),” Ramos yung asawa baka raw siya rin ay patay- The protest, which included a can- tumawag na lang (at sinabing) binaril ang said. in kaya pinauwi ko na lang sa kanila,” “Marami siyang tama. Tinadtad talaga Ramos added. nila. Apat na malalaking lalaki ang bumar- She said they were reluctant to seek the il sa anak ko. Naiwan pa nga yung apat na help of the police because they believe it lalagyan ng mami,” she added. was the police who killed her son. The killers left behind Ermerson’s cel- “Wala kaming mahingan ng tulong sa lular phone and his earnings of around takot. Kahit nga yung pera na benta na P1,000. P1,000 hindi na binalik ng mga pulis,” Ramos said her son, who was married, Ramos said. had no criminal record and was neither a Kinuha yung lalagyan ng pera at saka drug pusher nor a drug user. cellphone. Baka daw matrace nila kung “Wala siyang record. God knows. Kaya ano tapos wala namang matrace,” she said. hindi namin matanggap na drug addict o “Bakit kami magrereklamo e alam nam- ano kasi walang makakapagsabi na nag- ing pulis din ang pumatay?” she added. drudrugs siya. Hindi namin matanggap. Ramos said that she was glad when she Ramos Bakit ganun? Ang kuro-kuro baka nag- found out that there were groups of Fili- pupusher. E bakit wala siyang pera?” she pinos in Hong Kong who were protesting bi-gabi ako nagdadasal na bigyan ng paru- said. against EJKs. sa,” Ramos said. “Ang ilaw at tubig ng bahay, ako pa rin “Hinanap ko talaga ang grupong ito para “Wala itong katapusan kaya kailangan ang nagbabayad. Sapat lang yung kinikita ilabas ko ang sama ng loob ko...Sobra po,” mapigil ito. Dadami pa at dadami ang niya sa mami para sa kanilang pagkain,” she said, holding back tears. katulad ko. Galit ang naririto sa puso ko. she added. Ramos said she was angry at President Sobrang galit ko,” she said. Ramos said she talked to Emerson be- Duterte for not doing enough to stop the “Pag sinabi mabuti ang gawa ni Duterte, fore he was killed and he told her that the killings and that she blocked in Facebook kaaway kita. Magaling pumapatay. Kina- police were conducting Oplan Tokhang even relatives who claim that the Presi- tutuwa niyo? Anong good? Pinapatay? (the government’s campaign against ille- dent was doing good. Basta lang barilin? Hindi tama. Kaya gal drugs) in their community. “Kahit adik ang isang tao, hindi mo dapat maalis siya. Maimpeach. Hindi na “Sabi ko, ‘Anong balita dyan?’ (Ang dapat ipapatay. Tuwang-tuwa ka pa. Ga- tama,” she added. 14 Pinoys die in HK By Cheryl M. Arcibal

FOURTEEN Filipinos died in Hong Kong in the last several weeks, a sen- ior official of the Philippine Consu- late General told Hong Kong News as he reminded Filipinos here to take care of their health. Vice Consul Alex Vallespin said kin and friends of the deceased have reported to the PCG about the deaths. “We have 14 deaths between No- vember 1 and December 9,” he said. Out of the 14 who passed away, 12 cases were deemed to be of “natural causes”, while one fell from a height while performing his duty as a con- struction worker, and the other com- mitted suicide. These natural causes include vari- ous kinds of heart disease, pneumo- nia, liver problem, leukemia, kidney failure, and breast cancer. Nine of the deceased were fe- males, and five were males. Of the total, nine were workers here, four were residents, and one was a tourist. HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 NEWS 3 Oil exec admits to taking upskirt video

By Cheryl M. Arcibal “He has been in custody for five days flew in from the Philippines to attend the and he was just here in Hong Kong for a hearing and show their support, the lawyer A 43-year-old oil executive from the Phil- one-day visit before his scheduled flight to added. ippines has admitted to taking an upskirt the Philippines,” Yap’s lawyer said. “He comes from a good family,” the video of a Chinese woman in an MTR “He was in Macau for an international lawyer said, adding that Yap was willing station. shooting competition and he has recently to pay a fine so that he could immediately F. Yap Jr., a petroleum company oper- gotten the rank of a range officer of (an go back to the Philippines. Yap had no pre- ations manager, pleaded guilty to com- international group for range officers),” he vious criminal record in Hong Kong. TST MTR STATION mitting an act outraging public decency added. on December 2 at the Eastern Magistrates The lawyer also said Yap has realized Courts in Sai Wan Ho. the “seriousness of his action” and that his “Here in Hong Kong, this is a very se- guilty plea “in the earliest instance” saved rious kind of offense,” Acting Principal the court’s time and showed that he was Magistrate Joseph To Ho-shing told the “genuinely remorseful”. Filipino. He added that there was only one vid- The judge sentenced him to 10 days eo clip stored in the defendant’s mobile imprisonment but suspended it for 12 phone. months. This means that if Yap does not “(Yap) had committed the offense out commit a crime in the next 12 months in of sheer stupidity and he understands its Hong Kong, he will not go to jail. legal consequences. He is willing to bear “We had studies showing the grave ef- the consequences of his actions,” the law- fect of this kind of conduct,” Judge To yer said. said. “Some women have refrained from Yap also submitted a letter to the court, wearing skirts, and some have refrained apologizing for his action and saying that from going to shopping malls and some he has learned his lesson. have avoided escalators.” A university graduate in the Philip- Yap’s lawyer told the court that the de- pines, Yap is married and has two chil- fendant was in Hong Kong for a one-day dren. His monthly income is equivalent to visit when police officers arrested him for HK$30,000 and he has donated to chari- taking an upskirt video of a Chinese wom- ties, the lawyer added. an on November 27. Yap’s wife, his sister, and his father Court allows Pinoy club supervisor to file appeal By Philip C. Tubeza Whatsapp, encoded credit card data to one of his alleged co-conspirators. That data Hong Kong’s Court of Appeal has al- was used in the Apple Store transaction. lowed a senior Filipino club supervisor to When showed the Whatsapp conver- appeal his conviction for allegedly being sation, the Filipino said another person involved in a $140,000 credit card fraud might have sent the encoded credit data. scam. The police also found in the flat of one In a judgment released on December 2, of the Filipino’s alleged co-conspirators the court allowed Saudee A.T. to file an his S.C.B. credit which was tampered, like appeal and challenge his District Court other credit cards found in the flat. conviction on September 22, 2015 which But in his judgment, Lunn said the Dis- led to his being sentenced to three years trict Court judge that convicted Saudee in prison. did not specify how he was able to con- “I am satisfied that the grounds -of ap clude that the man in the CCTV footage peal advanced...are reasonably argua- was Saudee. ble. Accordingly, I grant leave to appeal “In the absence of any particularisation against conviction on those grounds,” said whatever by the judge of what it is that he the judgment penned by Court of Appeal regarded as the “distinctive” appearance vice-president Michael Lunn. of (Saudee) or as to the particular imag- Saudee worked as a senior supervisor es he regarded as “clear enough” and of a at the Play Club on On Hing Terrace in “sufficiently lengthy time”, it seems to me Central and his co-conspirators allegedly that it is reasonably arguable that the judge included the club’s two former assistant was wrong to conclude that anyone view- public relations managers and a chef. ing the CCTV recording would conclude The scam involved stealing the credit with certitude that person was (Saudee) card details of the club’s patrons and then and, in particular, to make that finding encoding them in chips that were then put himself,” Lunn said. in other credit cards. The tampered cred- “Similarly, it is difficult to understand it cards were allegedly used to purchase the basis on which the judge determined $140,000 worth of electronic gadgets, in- that the identification of the applicant cluding laptops. by (a police investigator) was ‘a reliable The prosecution presented CCTV foot- identification’,” he said. age showing that Saudee was present at “If (the judge) was wrong in his deter- the Apple Store in Hysan Place in Cause- mination in respect of the identification way Bay when one of the tampered cards of (Saudee) in the CCTV recording, it is was used to buy a laptop on July 15, 2014. reasonably arguable that the erroneous Prosecutors also presented evidence finding may have impacted upon his other showing that the defendant sent, through findings,” he added. 4 December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 5 6 NEWS December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK POLO, Indos target FDH working hours

By Philip C. Tubeza plaints for both communities,” he said. ang migrant domestic workers, hindi nam- Dela Torre said the POLO and the Indo- in inaalis ang posibilidad na mag-take din THE Philippine Overseas Labor Office nesians would lobby the Hong Kong gov- ng legal action kung sakaling darating sa (POLO) and the Indonesian Consulate ernment during their technical working ganoong punto,” he said. General has agreed to join forces to press group meetings. Villanueva said the Hong Kong govern- the Hong Kong government to provide “We have technical working group ment had been saying that standardizing standardized working hours for foreign meetings with the Hong Kong govern- working hours for employees and workers domestic workers, Labor Attache Jalilo ment. So, sabay naming i-push,” he said. here would erode the city’s competitive- Dela Torre said. Eman Villanueva, chair of Bayan Hong ness. Dela Torre met on December 13 with Kong and Macau, earlier said that Filipino This fear, he said, is unfounded as oth- Indonesian Deputy Consul General Ra- domestic workers were planning to take er cities that set shorter working hours fail Walangitan and they agreed to work legal action should the Hong Kong gov- for their employees and workers have re- together on several issues affecting FDHs. ernment exclude them from any regulation mained competitive. “We’ve agreed to cooperate on issues that would standardize working hours in According to the UBS’ annual “Prices that are common to both communities like the territory. and Earnings” study, workers in Hong salaries and working hours. Ipupush nam- Villanueva said they were not ruling out Dela Torre Kong spent 50.11 hours a week at the in (sa POLO) at ipupush din nila,” Dela filing a class suit or seeking a judicial re- workplace, the longest hours out of the 71 Torre said in an interview. view if the Hong Kong government does bigat at mahabang laban pa ito. Siyempre said. global cities included in the poll. “Basta dapat mafix (ang working hours). not include foreign domestic workers in hindi lang ang kalaban dito ang employ- “Ang nase-sense namin ay ayaw talaga Many foreign domestic workers com- We need to address that because it is going standardized working hours in the city. ers, ang number one na kalaban dito ay nilang isama ang mga migrant domestic plain that they work between 12 and 18 to be a very, very common cause of com- “Ito nakikita namin dito na medyo ma- ang Hong Kong government,” Villanueva workers...Kung sakaling i-exclude nila hours a day to serve their employers. OFWs in HK call for release of political prisoners 3 months By Philip C. Tubeza oners be released. We are calling on sol- for Pinay in idarity fasting to express support and put OVERSEAS Filipino workers in Hong more pressure on the Philippine govern- Kong and their allied groups are calling ment to release them immediately at least Korean resto on the Duterte Administration to release before Christmas,” Villanueva said. By Cheryl M. Arcibal more than 400 political prisoners in the “Although we are far, we are making Philippines, a community leader said. use of social media to be heard and to A 43-year-old Filipino domestic helper Eman Villanueva, chair of Bayan express participation and solidarity with who was charged in court for helping out Hong Kong and Macau, said Filipinos political prisoners in the Philippines,” he in a restaurant owned by her employer in the city also fasted in solidarity with added. was sentenced to three months in prison. nearly 80 political prisoners who went on The human rights group SELDA (Sa- Judge Colin Wong of the Shatin Mag- hunger strike from December 3 until De- mahan ng mga Ex-Detainees Laban sa istrates’ Courts on December 12 found cember 10, International Human Rights Detensyon at Aresto) said 76 political Candelaria Fabroa guilty of breach of con- Day. OFWs want the prisoners released prisoners joined the hunger strike from dition of stay, noting that prosecution wit- “This is not only about the peace December 3 to December 10 while at ness, the Labour inspector who posed as talks. This is also a matter of justice. hearings that never happened,” he added. from the government on the issue of least 122 other political prisoners also a customer in the Korean restaurant “Big These prisoners are actually prisoners Villanueva said many of the political political prisoners would show if it was participated by fasting. Mama”, was credible and reliable. of conscience but their cases were crim- prisoners were “sick, already very old, adhering to the Comprehensive Agree- The prisoners expressed gratitude to Judge Wong accepted the prosecution inalized. Trumped-up charges were filed while others were minors.” ment on Human Rights and Internation- their families, progressive groups, and witness’ evidence that the defendant had against them,” Villanueva said. “Some of them have stayed in prison al Humanitarian Law it signed with the human rights and peace advocates in the “no difficulty in handling the transaction” “Many of them have been in prison for for more than a decade. It’s also a test National Democratic Front of the Phil- Philippines and abroad who supported on July 27, 2016. years due to trumped-up charges. Some for this government,” he said. ippines. the call for their release through solidari- During her testimony, the Labour in- are waiting for release. They wait for Villanueva explained that the response “It is just right that the political pris- ty fasts and other actions. spector told the court that at about 11:15 a.m. of July 27, she and her colleagues were at the “Big Mama” restaurant and that there were two non-Chinese females in the restaurant, one a “chubby” woman, and the other, “medium-built”. The prosecution witness said she went near the cash register of the restaurant, where the “medium built non-Chinese woman was.” At the cash register, the La- bour inspector ordered one bowl of chick- en. Then one of her colleagues suggested to get some Korean drinks too. The de- fendant then placed the order on the cash register and said the order amounted to $84. The Labour inspector gave a $100- note and her colleague gave two $2 coins. The prosecution witness said the defend- ant then gave them a $20-note from the cash register and handed the receipt. Judge Wong noted inconsistencies in the evidence given by defense witness- es - Fabroa, her employer Mrs. Park, and Rachel, the staff working at the restaurant. “The defendant knew how to use the machine and how the restaurant operates and this evidence was not challenged,” said Judge Wong. HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 NEWS 7 Bello warns OFWs vs online scam

By Peter Castillo count to convince their potential victims, fied persons,” he added. is no request from me or from the Depart- Bello also urged the public to report to primarily targeting OFWs to invest their Bello made the announcement after he ment asking for any help,” said Bello. the Department’s Hotline 1349 any infor- LABOR Secretary Silvestre Bello warned hard-earned money in bogus businesses. received a call from a certain Michael He encouraged the public to ignore any mation similar to the said scheme. overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) against “I am advising the public, especially our Mendoza, who claimed to have deposited messages or calls that request solicitations “If you will encounter any request for a scam using his name to solicit money OFWs, to be vigilant so as not to be vic- a total of P200,000 to an account given by using his name on social media. solicitations using my name in any social from overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). timized by these individuals,” Bello said. a caller who introduced himself to be the Bello advised the public to transact with media accounts, please disregard it. It’s a Bello disclosed that some people are “I urge you not to give any information, Secretary. legitimate business entities so that they scam,” he said, adding that they had re- using his name on a fake Facebook ac- especially financial in nature, to unidenti- “This is to notify the public that there will not be victimized by scammers ported the scam to Facebook management. Immigration dragnet nabs 13 illegal foreign workers By Peter Castillo The ImmD spokesman warned that, un- der the Immigration Ordinance, illegal im- THE Immigration Department (ImmD) migrants or people who are the subject of has arrested 13 foreigners caught working a removal order or a deportation order are illegally during several territory-wide op- prohibited from taking any employment, erations earlier this month. whether paid or unpaid, or establishing or ImmD officers also arrested seven per- joining in any business. sons suspected of being the employers of Offenders are liable upon conviction these illegal workers. They were arrested to a maximum fine of $50,000 and up to during the crackdown conducted from De- three years’ imprisonment. The Court of cember 5 and 6. Appeal had issued a guideline ruling that “Any person who contravenes a condi- a sentence of 15 months’ imprisonment tion of stay in force in shall be guilty of an should be applied in such cases. offence. Also, visitors are not allowed to The spokesman also warned that it is an take employment in Hong Kong, whether offence to use or possess a forged Hong paid or unpaid, without the permission of Kong identity card or a Hong Kong identi- the Director of Immigration. Offenders are ty card related to another person. Offend- liable to prosecution and, upon conviction, ers are liable to prosecution and a maxi- face a maximum fine of $50,000 and up mum penalty of a $100,000 fine and up to to two years’ imprisonment,” an ImmD 10 years’ imprisonment. spokesman said. He also reiterated that it is a serious of- During the operation codenamed “Twi- fence to employ people who are not law- light”, Immigration Task Force officers fully employable. The maximum penalty raided six locations, including a boutique, is imprisonment for three years and a fine residential units, and restaurants. of $350,000. Two illegal workers and three employ- The High Court had laid down sentenc- ers were arrested. The two illegal workers ing guidelines that the employer of an ille- were women, aged 49 and 50. Meanwhile, gal worker should be given an immediate one man and two women, aged 43 to 72, custodial sentence. According to the court were suspected of employing the illegal , employers must take all practicable steps workers. to determine whether a person is lawfully During the operation codenamed employable prior to employment. “Champion”, enforcement officers raided Apart from inspecting a prospective seven locations, including massage shops employee’s identity card, the employer and restaurants in Mong Kok, Yau Ma Tei should also make enquiries regarding the and Tsim Sha Tsui. Eleven illegal workers person and ensure that the answers would and four employers were arrested. not cast any reasonable doubt concerning The 11 illegal workers included six men the lawful employability of the person. It and five women aged 26 to 51. Among said the cpurt will not accept failure to do them, two men were holders of recogni- so as a defence. sance forms, which prohibit them from It is also an offence if an employer fails taking any employment. to inspect the job applicant’s travel doc- Two men and two women were sus- ument if he or she does not have a Hong pected of using and being in possession of Kong permanent identity card. The max- forged Hong Kong identity cards. Mean- imum penalty for failing to inspect such while, four women, aged 32 to 43, were a document is imprisonment for one year suspected of employing the illegal workers. and a fine of $150,000.

Mong Kok 8 NEWS December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK FDH gets four months for stealing $500 By Cheryl M. Arcibal

A Filipino domestic helper was sentenced to four months in prison after admitting to stealing $500 from her employer. Acting Principal Magistrate Joseph To Ho-shing of the Eastern Magistrates’ Courts on December 5 told 26-year-old Roseanne Dulcera that the case against her was serious because it involved violating the trust her employer gave her. “The sum involved is not the be-all and the end-all in the consideration of sentenc- Eastern Magistrates’ Courts ing. As the domestic helper, you were in custody of the entire household items. The the house on November 25. He also be- court that the defendant was “remorse- degree of trust that your employer had in gan noting down the serial numbers of ful,” adding that she immediately pleaded you is most significant,” Judge To said. the bank notes that he kept in a bag in his guilty to the charge. He initially sentenced Dulcera to six closet. “She needed the money to support her weeks in prison but reduced it to four On December 4, the employer noticed family back in the Philippines. She has six weeks owing to her guilty plea. that a $500 note was missing. When con- siblings and her two parents and they are The prosecutor said Dulcera started fronted, Dulcera confessed that she took very poor. She is asking for leniency from working for her employer in September. It the cash. Her employer then called the po- the court and, if possible, a suspended sen- was her first contract in Hong Kong. lice to have her arrested. tence,” the lawyer said. However, her male employer noticed The prosecutor said prior to the case, However, Judge To said a custodial sen- last month that he had been missing some Dulcera had a clear record. tence was the most appropriate for Dul- money. He installed CCTV cameras in In mitigation, the duty lawyer told the cera’s case. Judge helps Pinay get legal advice By Cheryl M. Arcibal of taking her statement, intimidated or the witnesses. threatened her. To this, she said there When Jasmin apparently found the ON the supposed day of her trial, she was no dispute and that no one had co- proceedings and the serious conse- had no lawyer and was apparently un- erced her into giving the statement. quence of the case overwhelming, par- aware of the consequences of being Judge Yue then read a part of Jasmin’s ticularly if she’s found guilty, she started charged in court with “allowing object statement, which said that she was “sor- weeping. Judge Yue said he was minded to fall from height”. ry for the accident” and that “she had no to adjourn the trial of the case especially It took more than two hours for Spe- intention of dropping the object.” as he would be moving to the Sha Tin cial Magistrate Robin Yue King-tin to He explained to Jasmin that under the magistracy. explain to Jasmin G. that she could face law, it was irrelevant whether she in- The judge also called for a 30-minute a maximum fine of up to $10,000 and six tended for the object to fall or not. break when Jasmin told the court that months in imprisonment. Judge Yue said the offense had two el- she would need a legal advice. Upon realizing that she was facing a ements: first is that the person knows the She was then instructed by Judge Yue real serious charge, Jasmin then wept to go to the District Office, which was in court. The “popo” who accompanied also located in the court’s building. the defendant in court was also seen Upon the resumption of the hearing, weeping although it was learned that Jasmin told the court that she was sched- the elderly lady did not understand the uled to have a legal consultation on Feb- proceedings, which were conducted in ruary 7. English. The prosecutor, however, informed Jasmin’s case stemmed from an in- the court that they would no longer be cident at about 11:10 a.m. on August presenting the medical report, to which 9, 2016, when a wiper that she leaned Judge Yue said “why only tell me now against the railings of the balcony of her Glass wiper at this stage?” employer’s flat in Shau Kei Wan fell to The prosecutor said he had only the ground. state of affairs of the particular object learned about it after an advice from his The wiper allegedly hit a 59-year-old that fell; and second is that the person superiors. Chinese waitress, who was taken to a has the power or the state of control of However, Judge Yue said that he hospital where doctors found some ten- affairs leading to the falling of the par- would be adjourning the trial to Febru- derness and swelling on the side of her ticular object. ary 14, 2017 as Jasmin had scheduled to head. She also had a hematoma. The judge added that since Jasmin had seek a legal consultation. At the start of the trial hearing, Judge no legal representation, it was up to him “I am trying to protect everyone be- Yue asked Jasmin whether she needed to protect the defendant’s right. fore me,” Judge Yue said. an Ilonggo interpreter because only a Under further questioning, Jasmin The judge said the additional seven Tagalog interpreter was present in court. told the court that she had questions for days before the resumption of the trial The defendant said she was fine with the physician who treated and made the again are to allow time for her should Tagalog. medical report about the prosecution she need to get a lawyer and give her And then the judge asked her whether witness. instructions. she was disputing the caution statement Judge Yue then asked the prosecutor “You are given a second chance to get submitted by the prosecution to the court why they presented the medical report a legal advice. I sincerely hope that you or if any police officer, in the process without listing the physician as one of use this opportunity,” Judge Yue said. HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 9 10 NEWS December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK Ex-FDH worries about PH drug war

By Philip C. Tubeza (in jail) in the next few years,” the lawyer drug, and three bottles of a liquid that con- told Judge Toh on December 6. tained traces of methamphetamine. A 45-year-old former Filipino domestic Gonzales was arrested on June 25, 2015 Gonzales said a Chinese man gave the worker has admitted to trafficking at least after the police received a tip that there illegal drugs to her and she was going to 25 grams of methamphetamine hydro- was a Filipina involved in drug trafficking meet him again in Causeway Bay. chloride (shabu) in Wan Chai. in a building in Wan Chai. At first, the Filipina denied that she used The lawyer of Angelita Gonzales also At around 10:05 a.m. that day, investi- illegal drugs but she later admitted to be- asked for leniency from High Court Judge gators at the North Point police station de- ing a drug addict. Esther Toh, adding that his client was cided to conduct a surveillance operation. Gonzales first arrived in Hong Kong in worried about returning to the Philippines, Four hours later, Gonzales came out of 1991 to work as a domestic helper but, where President Duterte’s antidrug war the flat. She was carrying a recycled bag. after her last contract ended in 2001, she has left more than 5,000 dead. The police intercepted her and, when did not go home to the Philippines and “She does not know what’s going to they checked the recycled bag, they found overstayed. happen (to her). This is going to be hang- a re-sealable plastic bag with 25.7 grams In 2007, she had an American boyfriend Shabu ing over her like a black cloud while she is of shabu, several tablets of another illegal who was a drug user. He was the one who “encouraged her to take drugs,” her law- 23, was present during the court hearing “She will have to work very hard after yer said. to show her support for her mother. letting them down,” he added. The lawyer also said that, when Gon- “There has been reconciliation and a Judge Toh adjourned the case to Decem- zales became hooked on drugs in 2008, period of forgiveness. It almost makes her ber 15 after Gonzales’ lawyer said that she stopped sending money to her son and feel worse because she stopped supporting there was an issue that the Correctional daughter back in the Philippines. her son and daughter,” Gonzales’ lawyer Services Department had to clear up that But despite of this, her daughter, now told the judge. might have a bearing on her sentencing. Dishwasher to serve 20 months in jail By Cheryl M. Arcibal When she looked up outside her win- with their mother here in Hong Kong. dow, she saw a hand poking from the win- The lawyer said Rodil earned $13,000 a A Filipino dishwasher was sentenced to dow of the flat above. month as a dishwasher and he gave $500 one year and eight months in prison after Police officers then arrived and prevent- to $600 weekly to his estranged wife to admitting to breaking into a flat in Hung ed Rodil from leaving the flat. They even- help support their two youngest children. Hom. tually arrested him. The lawyer also said that Rodil had a Defendant J.J. Rodil pleaded guilty on The police officers found glass shards fight with his girlfriend and drank four November 28 to one count of burglary from a smashed window, cutters, a pair bottles of beer on the day of the incident. before Deputy District Court Judge Bina of pliers, and a water tap in the kitch- “He said he still knew what he was do- Chainrai. en that was dismantled. Fingerprints of ing at the time, so there must be dishones- Judge Chainrai agreed with the defense Rodil were also lifted from the scene of ty on his part,” the lawyer said. that there was no aggravating factor that the crime. He argued that the only mitigation for would have led her to impose a longer jail The unit, which was owned by Richland Rodil was that he pleaded guilty, but add- sentence. Property Agency, was described as “unoc- ed that there was no aggravating factor She said the starting point of Rodil’s cupied” and “not luxurious”. either. sentence was two years and six months, Under questioning, Rodil told investiga- “He did not bring along any equipment. but she reduced this by a third to one year tors that he was brought to the flat by “two There was no premeditation. It was not and eight months due to his guilty plea. foreign men”. committed in late hours, there was no loss Court records showed that the incident Asking for leniency, Rodil’s lawyer told of property, and no one was injured,” he happened at about 4:15 p.m. on April 30 in Judge Chainrai that the defendant was a said. a residential building in Hum Hom. divorcee and a father of five children aged Rodil, who lived with his 70-year-old A lady on the building’s fourth floor between five and 19. His three elder chil- mother here in Hong Kong, had seven heard a noise coming from the flat above dren are living in the Philippines, while the previous convictions, including one for her. two others—aged 11 and five--are staying burglary in 2014. Pinay denies stealing bracelet By Philip C. Tubeza Tribunal and statements made there by her employer might have a bearing on A Filipino domestic helper denied in the theft charge filed against the Filipina. court the accusation that she stole the However, the HDH member who was bracelet of her employer in North Point. present during the conciliation meeting Defendant Leilani R. B., pleaded not will be out of Hong Kong during the guilty on December 8 after the charge Christmas holidays and so would not be was read to her before Eastern Courts able to testify if the trial proceeds this Principal Magistrate Joseph To. month. The theft allegedly happened between Judge To denied the defense motion to October 1 and 3 at the Sky Horizon postpone the hearing for six weeks, say- Apartment in North Point. ing that the points that will be expound- The prosecution said they will pres- ed upon by the HDH member could be ent two witnesses against Leilani while raised during the cross examination of the defense asked for her trial to be Leilani’s employer. postponed for six weeks because they The magistrate set Leilani’s trial on wanted a member of the Helpers for Do- December 21 at Court 3 of the Eastern mestic Helpers (HDH) group to testify Magistrates Courts. on her behalf. Judge To added that Leilani could file Leilani and her employer supposedly an appeal if she disagreed with his deci- had a conciliation meeting at the Labour North Point sion to proceed with the trial. HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 NEWS 11 NAIA Christmas lane, counters for OFWs By Bing Jabadan done within 24 hours,” Macabeo said in the holidays. an interview. “Coordination has been made with the THE Bureau of Customs (BoC) has put “We are expecting thousands of bags immigration and airlines regarding the up special counters at the Ninoy Aquino coming out of the Customs conveyor belts efficient processing of passengers- doc International Airport for overseas Filipi- brought by OFWs and balikbayans com- uments at the check-in counters as more no workers who have complaints against ing from around the globe,” he added. airline personnel will be deployed to ac- their personnel this Christmas. Macabeo appealed to all OFWs and ba- commodate the increase of travelers,” The BoC promised to act on the com- likbayan to refrain from bringing in illegal Monreal said. plaints within 24 hours. items or items in “commercial quantities”. Monreal said he also directed other NAIA Customs District Collector Ed Manila International Airport Authority government agencies operating at the air- Macabeo said the counters and a special (MIAA) General Manager Ed Monreal port--- including the Office for Transpor- lane for OFWs were put up in NAIA said he also instructed his men to ensure tation Security (OTS), aviation and airport terminals with the approval of Customs that the thousands of OFWs and balik- police—to deploy sufficient personnel Commissioner Nicanor Faeldon. bayans expected to arrive this Christmas and ensure the smooth flow of passengers “If anyone among the arriving OFWs season are not hassled. through the airports. was hassled by members of Customs at He also asked airline officials to assist He added that different choirs and ron- the arrival areas, all you need to do is to their passengers who have missing bag- dallas were at the arrival areas to welcome report to the bureau or direct to me and gage and to be ready for the huge number and serenade passengers with Christmas NAIA Terminal 1 I am assuring anyone that action will be of departing passengers in January after songs. Tempers flare over BM Online applications Pinoy fined after throwing By Philip C. Tubeza applicants to set an appointment on BM “On weekdays, we will remain open Online before going to the (POLO). basta may tao pa na nakapila. Ang nag- away sofa in North Point TEMPERS flared up at the Philippine Many OFWs with no appointments on tatagal yung wala talagang account dahil By Cheryl M. Arcibal the rest to be paid in three months. Overseas Labor Office (POLO) on- De December 11 complained that those with mag-crecreate ka pa. So, before getting an Judge Ko said the maximum fine for cember 11 over the long lines of appli- appointments were being prioritized. appointment, magregister na and i-fill up HE could not find a lawyer so he end- the offense was $25,000, while the av- cants of overseas employment certificates Dela Torre said around 300 OFWs with na ang profile,” he added. ed up pleading guilty to the charge of erage fine was a little over $7,000. (OECs). no appointments showed up at the POLO Dela Torre also issued a memo to em- “unlawfully depositing waste” after he Baltazar told the court that as a con- One applicant said she went to the POLO that day, a Sunday, while around 600 more ployment agencies that all employment threw away a sofa on a street in North struction worker, he earns $950 a day . that day without an appointment because, had appointments. contracts they submit for renewal or for Point. In November, Baltazar initially whenever she applied, an error message “Get an appointment. It doesn’t matter transfer of employer should have proof Mario Baltazar, a construction work- pleaded not guilty to the offense. popped up. kung sa February pa. Basta may appoint- that the worker had already registered on er, told Judge Ko Wai-hung of the He said he did not have a legal rep- “Nakakainis na ito. Mas mabuti pa yung ment, we will attend to you,” he said. BM Online. Eastern Magistrates’ Courts that he resentation because the Duty Lawyer una kasi pipila ka lang at magbabayad, Dela Torre said those who get an ap- “Effective December 15, 2016, all em- was pleading guilty to the offense as he Service refused to represent him. tapos na. Ngayon, ang dami pang kaarte- pointment set after December 29 could ployment contracts submitted for renewal could not afford a lawyer. Baltazar added that he had ap- han,” she said. drop by the POLO to get their OEC around and transfer/change-employer (finished With his guilty plea, Baltazar was proached the Hong Kong Bar Associ- “Magagalit na nito ang mga amo nam- 3 p.m. or 4 p.m. in the afternoon. contract) without an attached proof of fined $6,000, the $1,000 of which ation and he was told that they would in dahil pabalik-balik na sa POLO para He said the POLO would be open on worker’s successful online registration would come from his bail money, and need 28 days to study his case. makakuha ng OEC,” she added. Sundays until 8 p.m. while it closes at 4 through www.bmonline.ph will be reject- Labor Attaché Jalilo Dela Torre urged p.m. on Saturdays. ed,” he told employment agencies. Balikbayan... From page 1 tablished permanent residency abroad but retained their Filipino citizenship, Filipino contain only personal and household ef- citizens who temporarily stay abroad may fects and these should not be in commer- include holders of student visa, investors’ cial quantities. Also, OFWs can avail of visa, tourist visa, and similar visas which this privilege only up to three times a year. allow them to establish temporary stay “Filipinos abroad may avail themselves abroad, can also avail themselves of the of duty and tax free privileges on balik- exemption,” he added. bayan boxes containing personal effects Faeldon said balikbayan boxes that and households goods,” Faeldon said. would take three-days shipping time must He said the Filipinos abroad availing be delivered within 24 hours after arrival, themselves of the exemption must present while boxes that would take seven days to valid passports and should also be certi- ship must be out 48 hours after arrival. fied by Department of Labor and Employ- Shipments from America, Europe, Mid- ment. for overseas employment purposes dle East, and other parts of the world that regardless of profession. do not fall under the above shipping time “Non-resident Filipinos who have es- must be released 10 days after arrival.

Filipinos prepare balikbayan boxes in Central. 12 TRAVEL December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK Window of the World By Philip C. Tubeza Splendid China, another theme park fea- turing the culture and attractions of China. TRAVEL aficionados crisscross the globe She added that there was also the Shen- to visit ancient temples and palaces, enjoy zhen Safari Park for those who want to go vibrant modern cities, or get awed by sub- on an safari without flying all the way to lime vistas that are the gifts of nature. Africa. But for Filipinos in Hong Kong who Well, they can wait. For this visit, we are still building up their budget for those intended to see the world, or at least a Chi- longed-for travels and adventure, there’s a nese reproduction of it. temporary salve to soothe that itch called A glass pyramid resembling the Louvre wanderlust. Pyramid in Paris greeted us after getting Just over the border in Shenzhen stands off at the theme park’s main gate. Embla- the Window of the World, a 48-hectare zoned on it were the words: Window of theme park that features around 130 the World. The theme park’s smaller reproductions of the world’s most Just after he main gate, a visitor encoun- version of the Big famous tourist attractions. ters reproductions of the many famous Apple. It was a cool Saturday morning when tourist sites of Asia like the Angkor Wat we trooped to Lo Wu to step into mainland nese restaurant, and almost half a day to made of bamboo fiber and then another the theme park. in Cambodia, the Borobudur in Indonesia, China and visit the park. wander around the theme park. shop the sold jewelry. The women with us Our tourist guide wondered why Filipi- the royal palace in Bangkok, and the Taj For just HK$300, a travel agency had The travel agency also prepared our loved the jewelry. nos going to Shenzhen always requested a Mahal. prepared for us an itinerary that included one-day visas. After lunch at a Chinese restaurant, we visit to Window of the World. If you walk a little further, there’s a re- a visit to Shenzhen shops, lunch at a Chi- We first visited a shop that sold products rode our tourist coaster and proceeded to She said there were other attractions like production of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Some more steps and you’re in Eu- rope, with replicas of Venice’s St. Marks Square, St. Petersburg’s Winter Palace, Paris’ Eiffel Tower, London’s Palace of Westminster and Big Ben, the Cologne cathedral, and the Vatican’s St. Peter’s Square. You could also visit Africa (with a re- production of the Pyramids and the houses of Timbuktu), the United States (there’s New York, the White House, and Mt. Rushmore) and Latin America. This might sound that it will only take a tourist one or two hours to finish going around the theme park. But knowing Fili- pinos, half a day would not be enough for This London Bridge is not falling down. A smaller Taj Mahal all the picture taking.

A sphinx also guards the replicas of the pyramids of Giza HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 13 14 BALITANG PH December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK Leni resigns from Cabinet Yellows out

By Maia Lopez region that you will have her until the very end of her term,” Duterte said. “There is to get me--- VICE President Leni Robredo has re- no such thing as removing a vice presi- signed as member of the Cabinet of Presi- dent,” dent Rodrigo Dutete, citing “major differ- Robredo, a former congressional repre- Duterte ences in principles and values” between sentative of Camarines Sur, is facing an By Maia Lopez the two of them and hinting at a plot to electoral protest lodged by former Senator steal the vice presidency from her. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., whom she defeat- PRESIDENT “We had hoped this day would not ed in the May elections with a margin of Rodrigo Duterte come...With this resignation, you can ex- 263,473 votes. has bared a plot pect that I will continue to support the pos- Aside from Robredo, two officials of to oust him by itive initiatives of this administration and Robredo the National Historical Commission of the “yellow” forces oppose those that are inimical to the peo- The Vice President also cited “obsta- tions Secretary Martin Andanar acknowl- Philippines have resigned to protest the who have joined ple’s interest,” Robredo said as she stepped cles” in the HUDCC that have hindered edged that the two highest officials in the burial of the late dictator Ferdinand Mar- protest actions Duterte down as chair of the Housing and Urban her from doing her job. country had “irreconcilable differences.” cos at the Libingan Ng Mga Bayani. against the burial Development Coordinating Council. “One, the budget for all key shelter “The President said they had irreconcil- NHCP chairperson Maria Serena Dio- of the late dicta- She revealed receiving a text message agencies in 2017 has been slashed by more able differences. I think Filipinos know kno and commissioner Francis Gealogo tor Ferdinand Marcos at the Libingan from Cabinet Secretary Jun Evasco Jr. that than P19 billion. Two, all our key shelter this. The President has taken one position, both decided to leave the NHCP. ng mga Bayani. Duterte wanted her to “desist from attend- agency appointment recommendations and the Vice President always takes anoth- Meanwhile, Duterte appointed Lr. Gen. “These yellows are demonstratin- ing all Cabinet meetings starting Monday, have not been acted on. Three, the Execu- er opposing position,” Andanar said. Eduardo Año as the new Armed Forc- ng. You want me out kasi you cannot December 5.” tive Order designed to make HUDCC ef- The President assured Robredo that es chief of staff, replacing Gen. Ricardo accept defeat,” Duterte said. “This is the last straw, because it makes fective was not signed,” she said. there is no plan to cut her term as vice Visaya who has retired. AFP vice chief Lt. He said the “yellows” might be it impossible for me to perform my du- Duterte accepted Robredo’s resignation president short. Gen. Glorioso Miranda will succeed Año plotting to install Vice President Leni ties,” she said. “with a heavy heart” even as Communica- “I assure Leni and the rest of the Bicol as Army chief. Robredo if their alleged plan to oust him succeeds. Although Duterte did not mention the Liberal Party which is associated with the yellow color, LP president House files ethics Senator Francis Pangilinan denied that the former ruling party was plot- ting against the President. complaint vs De Lima Pangilinan said the LP has lost By Maia Lopez more than half of its members that the few ones left “can fit inside a HOUSE leaders have filed an ethics Volkswagen.” complaint against Senator Leila de He said the presence of LP mem- Lima for advising her former boyfriend bers in anti-Marcos rallies does not Ronnie Dayan against attending a con- mean the party wants to overthrow gressional inquiry on illegal drugs. the Duterte administration. The complaint was personally filed “We are not out to topple the gov- by Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez, House ernment. When we disagree with Majority Leader Rodolfo Fariñas and De Lima some of the policies, that does not Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Uma- mean we want to oust the present ad- lis, chair of House justice committee, she did was not an obstruction of jus- ministration,” Pangilinan added. before the Senate committee on ethics. tice, but an “obstruction of persecu- Duterte, however, expressed con- The complaint cited De Lima for vio- tion.” fidence that that any move to unseat lation of Article 150 of the Revised Pe- “That’s not obstruction of justice. him will not succeed. nal Code (disobedience to summons). That’s obstruction of persecution. And “The left will never allow me to “As an incumbent Senator, former what justice are they talking about? I be ousted. The New People’s Amy – Secretary of Justice and a lawyer, ad- couldn’t see any justice in their pro- they’re all pro-Duterte,” he said. vising and inducing Mr. Dayan to hide ceedings,” she said. “This is politics – they want me out and not to attend and/or appear in the “They didn’t give me any justice. and of course the Vice President will House inquiry for which she was duly There’s no justice in what they are do- step win. They’ve had their chance, summoned, is tantamount to restraining ing to me. So why call it obstruction of though,” the President added. or inducing disobedience to a summon justice? I’m trying to obstruct the acts Among the LP stalwarts who issued by Congress, of which she is a of persecution being done to me by this joined the November 30 rally at the sitting member, in violation of Article administration,” she added. People Power Monument were for- 150 of the Revised Penal Code,” the Sotto, for his part, said there no ques- mer interior secretary and defeated complaint read. tion on jurisdiction since the acts being Liberal presidential bet Manuel Rox- Former National Bureau of Investiga- questioned happened when De Lima as II, Senator Leila de Lima, former tion deputy directors Reynaldo Esmer- was already a senator. Social Welfare secretary Corazon alda and Ruel Lasala also filed a -sep Sotto said he will first look at the Soliman, and former Education sec- arate ethics case against the embattled complaint to determine form and sub- retary Armin Luistro. senator. stance before giving copies to the mem- Filipino-American businesswom- Umali said they will also file a crim- bers of the committee. an Loida Nicolas Lewis, one of the inal complaint against De Lima before For expulsion, Sotto said they will most active supporters of Roxas the Department of Justice for disregard- need a 2/3 vote of the 16 members of and Robredo during the campaign, ing their investigation into the illegal the ethics committee. has called on Duterte to resign but drug trade inside the New Bilibid Pris- Earlier, the Volunteers Against Crime denied she was part of a coup plot on. and Corruption filed criminal and - dis against the President. De Lima was on an official trip to the barment cases against De Lima for her Pangilinan insisted that false in- United States and Germany when the alleged involvement in the illegal drug formation may have been reaching complaint was lodged before the Senate trade inside the NBP. Duterte. The senator said the alleged committee headed by Senate Majority VACC founding chairman Dante ouster plan against the President was Leader Vicente Sotto III. Jimenez also urged De Lima to quit to first brought up by former senator She has repeatedly insisted that what allow an impartial investigation. Ferdinand Marcos Jr. HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 WORLD 15 PH eyes Russia as Simbang Gabi celebrations start in New York By Maia Lopez the different community organizations destination for OFWs to work together for a distinctly Filipino By Maia Lopez THE Philippine Consulate General New Christmas tradition. York, in coordination with 10 sponsoring She likewise noted that the Simbang THE Department of Labor and Employ- Filipino-American community groups un- Gabi at the consulate was now in its 3rd ment is looking at Russia as the next work der the Coalition of Schools and ANCOP, decade. destination for skilled Filipino workers, opened the nine-day Simbang Gabi sa “By opening our hearts to the genuine Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III said. Konsulado. meaning of Simbang Gabi the ritual will Bello said President Duterte will discuss The main Mass celebrant was Papal remain fresh and meaningful,” se said. labor relations when he visits the social- Nuncio to the United Nations, Archbishop In his homily, Archbishop Auza em- ist state and meets with Russian President Bernardito Auza and concelebrated by Fr. phasized the significant role of the Filipi- Yasay speaks to a Vladimir Putin early next year. Ed Jocson. An overflow crowd packed the no community in addressing the cultural Russian journalist “I already sent a memo to the President Kalayaan Hall and the Kalayaan Annex challenges that migrants face in particular requesting him to include the possible hotels, and households. the 40th anniversary of our bilateral rela- for the first night of Simbang Gabi. the transitions and gaps from one genera- deployment of skilled and professional Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Secretary tionship,” he said. Now on its 29th year, the Simbang tion to the next. workers to Russia,” Bello said. Perfecto Yasay, Jr. spoke to Russia’s TASS “We have to work on this much strong- Gabi sa Konsulado’s theme for 2016 was He thanked the community for keeping He also said that there is a demand for News Agency about his meeting with Rus- er. Moreover, it comes in a timely initia- “MapayapangPasko Para sa Maunlad na traditions like Simbang Gabi alive in New construction and household service work- sian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and tive especially so that our president has Pagbabago” (A Peaceful Christmas To- York and sharing it with the younger gen- ers in the Russian republic. the planned visit of President Rodrigo R. reiterated and realigned our independent wards Progressive Change). eration and mainstream US society. Bello said that because of the decline Duterte to Russia in 2017. foreign policy where we really have to ex- The Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado pro- The Simbang Gabi celebrations started in oil price in the Middle East, there are In his interview with Mr. Evgeny tend friendship and mutual understanding vides a venue for the Filipino-American with a Parol lighting ceremony, which was fewer job opportunities in that part of the Kolomeets, Secretary Yasay stressed the with all countries,” he added. community to continue celebrating Fil- held in coordination with the Philippine globe and Russia is a good alternative for importance of laying the groundwork for Yasay was in Moscow together with ipino Christmas traditions overseas as Center-New York and the Philippine De- skilled and professional workers who are President Duterte’s visit. Secretary of National Defense Delfin well as for an opportunity to collaborate, partment of Tourism-New York. looking for high paying jobs. “Those preparations are important be- Lorenzana who met with officials from the coordinate and work together to organize The traditional parols made from capiz “We noticed that there is a decline in the cause we do not feel that the visit of our Ministry of Defense and the Federal Ser- Masses, salu-salo and other events like shells were set up at the Lobby Gallery demand for OFWs in the Middle East. We president should be merely ceremonial, vice for Military Technical Cooperation. gift-giving and community Christmas of the Philippine Center to showcase the have to look for other countries where there that we would like to get into something The two cabinet officials were instruct- carolling. different Christmas celebrations in the are demands for our OFWs,” he added. more substantive within the view of fos- ed by President Duterte to visit Moscow In her remarks, Consul General Theresa Philippines. In 2014, there are about 4,000 OFWs in tering stronger and better ties with Russia, after his meeting with Russian President Dizon-de Vega thanked all the sponsoring The parols were sourced from San Fer- Russia who are working in construction, especially that this year we commemorate Vladimir Putin in Lima, Peru. organizations throughout the nine-day ac- nando, Pampanga, a city best associated tivity, adding that the celebration allows with the Parol Festival. S. Korea lauds PH program By Maia Lopez the Philippine Overseas Labor Office down to 19.7 percent,” Peña said. (POLO) in Korea said the commenda- Peña said the commendation came THE Ministry of Employment on Labor tion was in recognition of Philippines’ from MOEL Deputy Minister Jong-kil of the Republic of Korea (MOEL-ROK) best practices in complementing the Park, during a meeting on 21 October has commended the Philippines for its South Korean’s effort to promote the re- 2016 at Royal Hotel Seoul in Myeong- active promotion of voluntary return of turn support program for foreign work- dong. workers and for rolling out successful ers. Labor Attachés of the 16 labor-send- reintegration programs, making it a pos- “The Philippines was commended for ing countries under the EPS attended sible reference in adopting return pro- its major achievement of maintaining a this meeting which aimed to discuss the grams of other labor-sending countries steady percentage decline of undocu- current implementation status of EPS under the Employment Permit System mented number of Filipino EPS workers and the comprehensive sending system (EPS). from 2013 to July 2016, reducing it from monitoring program for foreign workers Welfare Officer Manuela Peña of 6,548 to 4,962, or from 31.7 percent in South Korea. The lighting of the parols at the Philippine Center in New York 3 Pinoys die in Sabah By Maia Lopez

MALAYSIAN security forces killed three Filipino gunmen when they tried rob fisher- men in Sabah’s east coast on December 8. The three gunmen were among a group of eight which engaged the Malaysian po- lice’s Tiger Platoon off Palau Bodgaya in Semaporna. The police arrested three of the gunmen while security forces were hunting down the others. The Filipino gunmen, armed with four rifles and a pistol, had boarded the fishing trawler Yakin 2 and robbed its fishermen of valuables, headphones, and food. They also kidnapped the boat’s skipper. The gunmen then destroyed the boat’s communication equipment. 16 BARRIO PINOY December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK

Emergency Hotlines Numbers To Remember UNIFIL holds 15th Congress EMERGENCY THE foremost militant alliance of OFWs the International League of Peoples Strug- Hong Kong Observatory in Hong Kong, the United Filipinos (UNI- gle (ILPS). (Weather) 2835 1473 FIL-MIGRANTE-HK), held its 15th Con- Allies of UNIFIL from other federations Police, Fire Services, Hospitals 999 gress on November 20 at the University of also gave messages of support. Police Report Hotline 2527 7177 Hong Kong. The congress reaffirmed its commit- Attended by more than 400 OFWs ment to pursue the long standing issues PHILIPPINE CONSULATE from its member organizations and allies, of OFWs many of which are included in the Congress was held with the theme: the “Hong Kong Migrants Agenda to the For emergency cases, call or text: “Higit na isulong ang makabayan, ma- Duterte Government” which was submit- Assistance to Nationals 9155 4023 ka-migrante at makamasang reporma sa ted in the beginning of Duterte’s term. Labor 6080 8323 panahon ng gobyernong Duterte! Ilantad The Alliance also reiterated the necessity OWWA 6345 9324 at labanan ang atake ng mga dayuhan at to take part and contribute in the national SSS 2823 8552 lokal na kaaway ng sambayanan! Kumi- democratic struggle of the Filipino people Pag-Ibig 2823 8561 los para sa tunay na pagbabagong panli- as the only path for genuine change and punan!” lasting peace. Consulate Trunkline 2823 8500 Former Kabataan Partylist representa- Finally, the Congress elected the Exec- Office Fax: 2866 9885 tive to the Philippine Congress and current The delegates at the UNIFIL Congress utive Committee of the alliance for 2016- Email: [email protected] Chairperson of BAYAN Metro Manila 2018. Website: http://philcongen-hk.com/ Raymond “Mong” Palatino, delivered the Cultural presentations like songs, danc- in the country. They were Dolores Balladares-Pelaez Facebook: Philippine Consulate General Keynote Address where he presented the es, poems, plays and a Balagtasan further Solidarity messages were given by Gar- (Chairperson), Shiela Tebia (Vice Chair- ry Martinez of Migrante International, Eni in Hong Kong national situation and the conduct of pro- highlighted the issues of OFWs as mi- person), Eman Villanueva (Secretary Gen- gressive and national democratic forces grants in Hong Kong and as part of the Lestari of the International Migrants Alli- eral), Lucy Ta-a (Deputy Secretary Gener- under the present government of Duterte. Filipino people wanting genuine change ance (IMA) and Prof. Jose Maria Sison of al) and Betty Palabay (Treasurer). Hong Kong GOVERNMENT Independent Commission Against Corruption 2526 6366 Central Government 2835 2500 Agarang tulong mula sa Rich Credit Complaint Against Police 2866 7700 SI Maria ay isang domestic helper sa HK, swak ka na, instant loan agad at instant sa RICH CREDIT. Tuwang tuwa si 2200 4460 to 62 bread winner sa Pilipinas at laging nag- pick-up pa. Maria ng subukan niyang umutang sa Consumer Rights Hotline 2929 2222 papadala ng pera sa asawa dahil sa pag- Bago pala pumunta sa RICH CREDIT RICH CREDIT at naaprubahan naman Department of Health 2961 8989 aaral ng kanyang tatlong anak na maliliit ay dapat tumawag lang muna sa 2904- siya agad at solved na solved ng RICH Equal Opportunities Commission pa. 4188, magpa- interview at ibigay na rin CREDIT ang problema ni Maria. 2511 8211 Minsan kinapos siya ng pera at nag- yung 2 reference at kapag natawagan pala Nalaman din ni Maria na sa isang re- Immigration 2824 6111 tanong sa mga kababayan kung saan pwe- silang tatlo ay pwede nang pumunta agad ferral mo lang pala sa RICH CREDIT deng makautang ng instant loan na may a sa RICH CREDIT para ma pick-up ang ay mayroon kang instant gift na punong Labour Department 2717 1771 short-term payment at nalaman niya na loan, pwedeng sa holiday mo siya pick- puno ng mga gadgets accessories kaya Legal Aid 2537 7677 sa RICH CREDIT FINANCE LTD pala up or bago mamalengke, dumaan lang sa yung nag referral kay Maria ay nakakuha Race Relations Unit 2810 3203 madaling makautang, basta mayroon ka pinakamalapit na RICH CREDIT sa inyo ng isang magandang CHRISTMAS re- Social Welfare 2343 2255 lang landline at address proof ng amo kasi may 6 branches ang RICH CREDIT. galo mula sa RICH CREDIT FINANCE Transport 2804 2600 at saka 2 reference na may landline din, Ganun daw pala kadaling umutang LTD. Mga natulungan Postal Hotline 2921 2222

NON-GOVERNMENT ORGANIZATIONS Workshop for distressed Asia-Pacific Mission for Migrants 2723 7536 OFWs in shelters Asian Migrant Center 2312 0031 THE Philippine Consulate General in (Mission for Migrant Workers), Dioce- Christian Action - Shine Center Hong Kong in cooperation with the Equal san Pastoral Centre for Filipinos, Jesus Is 3188 4555 Opportunities Commission (EOC) and Lord, New Beginnings, Pathfinders, and Diocesan Pastoral Center for Filipinos Pathfinders, organized a one-day interac- Christian Action participated in the pro- (and other Asian Migrants and Ethnic tive workshop for female Overseas Filipi- ject. Minorities) 2526 4249 no Workers (OFWs) in various shelters in They were accompanied by over ten Alliance of Progressive Labor 2770 0411 Hong Kong on November 25 at the Philip- shelter managers and staff members. pine Consulate. The participants were briefed on the Bayanihan Trust Centre 2817 8928 “Babae, Natatangi 2,” was organized various services of the Consulate General Filipino Migrant Workers Union for the 2nd year pursuant to Republic and its attached agencies, lecture/work- 9104-1411; 9758-5935 Act 10398 (An Act Declaring November shop on sexual harassment, migrant preg- Hong Kong Christian Service - CHEER Ce Twenty-Five of Every Year as “National nant women’s rights, and domestic worker nter 3755 6811 Consciousness Day For The Elimination rights. International Social Services 2836 3598 Of Violence Against Women And Chil- Speakers were Ms. Devi Novianti, Cor- dren”), Section 31 of Republic Act 9710 porate Communications Officer, Equal Mission for Migrant Workers 2522 8264 (Provision of gender-responsive, rights- Opportunities Commission (EOC) Ms. The Bethune House 2721 3119 based and culture sensitive services and Carmen Lam, Senior Community Devel- Enrich Hong Kong 2386 5811 interventions to Women in Especially Dif- opment Manager, and Ms. Lia Ngatini. Helpers for Domestic Helpers 2523 4020 ficult Circumstances), and Section 26 of The case manager of Pathfinders gave a United Filipinos in Hong Kong 3156 2447 Republic Act 9710 (Right to Information talk on rights of pregnant women migrants regarding policies on women, including and mothers, while Labor Attaché Jalilo AIRPORT AND AIRLINES programs, projects and funding outlays O. Dela Torre also talked about the basic that affect them). rights of a domestic worker under Hong Airport Inquiry 2181 8888 Forty-eight participants from seven Kong law. Cathay Pacific Airways 2747 5000 different shelters in Hong Kong, name- “Babae, Natatangi 2” is the Consulate Cebu Pacific Air 2722 0609 ly, Migrant Workers and Other Filipinos General’s 4th project under Gender and Philippine Airlines 2301 9300 Resource Center, Bethune House Shelter Development Program for 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 BARRIO PINOY 17

GALLERY Vice Consul OWTEL, the Number 1 Robert Quintin electronics retailer, opens inducted the its newest shops in Tuen newly-elected Mun and Sheung Shui. The officers of the company wants to redefine Mui Wo Filipino convenience. It has continued Community to expand aggressively (MWFC) on Dec. everywhere in Hong Kong. 11 . The new Mr. David Chen, OWTEL CEO, officers are led wants to challenge Fortress. by their chair, He wants to sell everything Mr. Arthur from phones, watches, PCs, Pingol. and plans to expand to kitchenware. OWTEL has great discounts better than Rhea Nee Fortress and 0% installment (second from the programs that beat all the right) wins a competition. Kata V4 during the Christmas party of the Mui Wo Filipino The World Community Through (MFWC), which Photgraphy HK is now on its group celebrated 5th year. The its second group includes anniversary on OFWs working December 4 at together to unite Tamar Park in the Filipino spirit Admiralty. in Mui Wo.

PCG starts 953 OFWs take civil service exam By Philip C. Tubeza the test for sub-profeesionals. “Kung mga July naman, nagbab- about long lines to have their photos tak- OAV “It went smoothly. Ok naman although akasyon ang mga amo so bakasyon din en for the application form. MORE than 900 overseas Filipino work- it started a little late at 1:45 p.m.,” Dela ang mga kababayan natin,” he added. “First time itong lumabas ng bansa (ng ers took the first civil service exam con- Torre said in an interview. While more than 2,000 OFWs signed CSC). They’re getting lessons on how to registration ducted the Civil Service Commission He said the CSC has decided to hold up to take the exam, Dela Torre said do it better next year,” Dela Torre said. By Peter Castillo (CSC) outside the Philippines, Labor the exam every year here in Hong Kong many might not have pushed through The CSC said those who will pass the Attaché Jalilo Dela Torre said. while Filipinos in Jeddah are reportedly because of the short registration period. exam can personally claim their Certifi- THE Philippine Consulate General (PCG) Dela Torre said a total of 953 OFWs also asking that civil service exams be “Siguro may mga nagsign up pero cation of Eligibility upon their return to has started its registration drive for the from Hong Kong and Macau trooped to held there. walang commitment. We also suspect it the Philippines at the CSC office they overseas absentee voters for the 2019 the Delia Memorial School in Hip Wo to “Ang sabi ko sa kanila mas maganda was because of the short registration pe- selected on the online registration form. elections. take the exam. kung gawin natin ito ng October kasi riod. Barely two weeks lang,” Dela Torre Representatives are not allowed to All Filipino registered voters abroad, He added that 676 OFWs took the kung late November ang iba nag uuwian said. claim the certification on their behalf, it who were not disqualified by law and are exam for professionals while 277 took na,” Dela Torre said. He said there were also complaints added. at least 18 years old, may vote during the 2019 midterm elections and choose their senators and party-list representatives. Those who are not registered may file their applications for registration at the PCG or other registration centers author- ized by the Commission on Elections. To register, the applicant should person- ally appear at the PCG on the 14th Floor of United Centre in Admiralty for their biometrics. They should also bring along a photo- copy of their passport or, if they have dual citizenship, a copy of the oath of alle- giance or proof of Philippine citizenship from the Bureau of Immigration. For Filipino seaman, they can bring along a copy of their seaman’s book. The registration period began on De- cember 1 and will last until Sept. 30, 2018. The 30-day voting period for the 2019 midterm elections will start on April 13, 2019 until May 13, 2019. In the 2016 presidential polls, the Hong Kong post had the highest turnout among overseas absentee voters. 18 FORUM December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK Editorial As We See it The debate on death ONCE again, Filipino lawmakers are de- improved. It is imperative that all pieces bating whether to reinstate or not the death of evidence in a criminal case be handled penalty in the Philippines. well and sensitively. Sloppy investigation The death penalty bill was recent- procedures could lead to wrongful convic- ly passed by a committee of the House tion, and could send an innocent man to of Representatives. Under the bill, 20 the gallows. crimes or offenses were proposed to be A 2014 article of The Washington Post punishable by death. said there was still strong evidence that While we recognize the right of the state execution deter crimes. to impose death as a way to deter crime, “We’re very hard pressed to find really we hope the administration study this strong evidence of deterrence,” the article thoroughly and exhaustively. quoted Columbia Law School’s Jeffrey The Philippines is by no means a Fagan as saying. wealthy country, and many of its citizens Criminologists, it added, have also been are still considered poor. Only those who “unable to assemble a strong case that cap- are wealthy could afford to hire the servic- ital punishment deters crime”. es of a good defense lawyer. We therefore urge our lawmakers to be This also means that investigation pro- more prudent and circumspect in debating cedures and practices of the country’s the reinstatement of death penalty in the law enforcers should be polished and Philippines.

Health Alert Norman Uy Healthy eating tips for Currents Carnay eating out Human Rights at Migrant Rights EATING healthily is fundamental to our es with more vegetables and less meat; (3) KATATAPOS lang ng pagdiriwang ng tan ng manggagawa na ayon sa Labor change employer. Tutal, karapatan naman health. A healthy and balanced diet can request the restaurant use less sugar, salt International Human Rights Day nitong Orindance? Kailan pa naging krimen ang iyan, di ba? benefit our body by providing an- ade and oil while handling the food you order December 10 at susunod naman ang In- pag-change employer? Kaya’t kung tayo ay may malakas na quate amount of energy and nutrients that and if possible, (4) serve the sauce of dish ternational Migrants Day sa December Maalala rin natin ang sanlaksang mga pandama para sa ating mga karapatan can help to maintain health and prevent and the syrup of the drink separately. (5) 18. Kung tutuusin, magkaugnay naman migrante na nasa death row o kaya ay bilang mga migrante, mabilis din nating many non communicable chronic diseases Whenever you make an order, you can en- talaga ang dalawa lalo pa’t isa sa mga nasa mga kulungan. Maaaring ang mara- madama ang mga kaugnay na usapin ng (NCDs) such as heart disease, hyperten- quire the portion size of dishes first so as mayor na usapin sa pagtatanggol sa in- mi sa kanila ay katulad ng istorya ni Flor karapatang-pantao – lalo na mismo sa at- sion, stroke, diabetes and certain cancer to avoid ordering excessive amount food. teres ng mga migrante ay siyempre, ang Contemplacion o di kaya ay ni Mary Jane ing bansa. etc. (6) Also, don’t force yourself to finish the kanilang karapatan. Migrants’ rights ay Veloso – mga biktima ng sirkumstansya Mababahala din tayo sa balita na pat- Unhealthy eating habit is closely linked leftover on the table. human rights, ika nga. at kapabayaan. Paano nga naman ang ka- uloy na nakakulong at ayaw palayain to the development of obesity and chronic To facilitate the public choosing healthi- Madali nating masapol na ang mga mi- nilang karapatan? Hindi ba’t makatarun- ang mahigit 400 na political prisoners sa diseases. The World Health Organization er dishes while eating out, the Department grante ay may mga karapatan. Siyempre, gan na sila ay matulungan kung hindi bansa. Tuloy-tuloy pa rin ang militaris- advises that to reduce the risk of suffering of Health has launched the EatSmart@ dahil direkta ang epekto sa atin kapag ang man ay mapalaya? asyon ng AFP sa mga probinsya kahit na from NCD, people should eat at least 400g Restaurant.hk (ESR) Campaign since mga nasabing karapatan ang tinatamaan, Sa Migrants’ Day ay itutulak ang mga may ceasefire. Mahigit 5,000 na ang na- of fruit and vegetables a day together with 2008. Currently, there are over 600 restau- tinatanggal o hindi nirerespeto. Halimba- iba’t ibang mga isyu na nakatuntong sag papatay sa war on drugs ng pamahalaan reducing the intake of salt, sugar and fat. rants participating in this Campaign with wa, ngayon ay bina-blacklist ng HK Im- a pundamental na karapatan natin – ang at hindi napaparusahan ang mga pulis However, eating out frequently often in- the ESR decal displaying at the eye-catch- migration Department ang mga domestic karapatan na magpahinga, makatanggap na sangkot sa mga rubout. Ang bagong creases the chance of consuming high-en- ing area in their shops. workers na madalas daw nagpapalit ng ng sapat na pagkain, tamang sweldo, at hirang na Chief of Staff ng AFP ay may ergy, high-fat, and salty foods, which may They provide at least 5 healthier dishes employer o nagte-terminate ng kontrata. ang mailigtas sa peligro. Kaya nga kam- bahid ang record sa human rights. Nais lead to overweight and health problems. for customers in their business period. So, Pinaparusahan agad ang mga migrante ng panya ngayon na maisama tayo sa reg- ding ibalik ang death penalty. To have a healthier meal while eating out, you might start to eat smart for benefiting walang “due process” at hindi binibigyan ulasyon ng working hours, ang pag-ban Hindi dapat payagan na ipagwalang-ba- here are some practical tips. (1) You can your health in an easier way while dining ng visa dahil diumano ay nagjo-job-hop- sa window-cleaning, ang pagtaas ng sa- hala ang human rights, saanman at kail- choose dishes cooked by steaming; boil- out. Remember “To Keep healthy when- ping. Hindi ba’t paglabag ito sa karapa- hod, at ang pagtanggal ng parusa sa pag- anman. ing instead of deep fried; (2) choose dish- ever, Eat smart wherever”.

Dear Editor

Dear Hong Kong News, mga tungkulin. Kung may bumabagabag sa kanila sa aming holiday, doon na lamang tayo kung saan iwas Papauwi na po ako sa atin sa susunod na taon. Mata- kanilang trabaho sa bahay ng kanilang amo, kausapin disgrasya at gulo. pos ang 10 taon dito sa Hong Kong, sabi ko ito na ang nila ang kanilang amo at ipaalam ito. Ikaapat ay ang matutong mag-ipon. Hindi habam- Jeneth P. Julve Managing Editor panahon para mag for good na ako. Ikalawa, basahin nang maigi ang kontratang pinir- buhay tayong malakas at nandito sa Hong Kong. Ma- All rights reserved. No part of this Kahit paano, may ipon na ako, may maliit na ba- mahan nila. Pag-aralan ito. Tandaan na hindi maar- halaga na may pera tayo upang maging komportable Philip C. Tubeza Editor publication may be reproduced hay, at maayos naman ang trabaho ng mister ko. ing magtrabaho ang isang domestic helper sa labas naman ang buhay natin sa pagbalik natin sa Pilipinas. without the written permission of Kaya po ako sumulat ay gusto kong ibahagi ang ng bahay ng amo nila. Natutuwa po ako na makakauwi na ako at makaka- Cheryl M. Arcibal Associate Editor the publisher. mga tips sa mga kababayan nating nangangamuhan Ikatlo, bigyan ng panahon ang mga makabulu- piling ko na ang aking pamilya sa 2017. Ang hangad dito, lalo na yung mga baguhan pa lang na nangan- hang seminar na maaring puntahan. Maraming mga ko ay mapabuti ang kalagayan ng ating mga kaba- Belinda Bacani-Canezo Sales & Marketing Mgr Published by HK Publications Ltd. Unit 3-9, 10/F, Fook Hong Industrial Building, No.19 gapapa kung ano ang dapat nilang gawin. pagtitipon sa ating konsulado at sa POLO kung saan bayan dito sa Hong Kong. Sheung Yuet Road, Kowloon Bay, Kowloon Ang una kong tip ay maging tapat sa mga amo nila. maari tayong matuto. Mainam na imbes na ubusin Nagpapasalamat, Joko Harjanto Assistant Sales Mgr Telephone: 2851 1766 Fax: 2858 8979 Ibig sabihin nito, gampanan ng maigi ang kanilang ang panahon sa kung saan sana lamang sa araw ng Angel T. E-mail: [email protected] Nin Tang Senior Designer PO Box # 60185 at Tsat Tsz Mui Post Office

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By Imelda Mae Bustinera dinampot at isinilid sa bag ang malalaking boypren ni piraso ng basag na tangke at mabilisan ni- NAGMAMADALI lagi si Verna, 33, dal- yang pinunasan ang sahig. aga at tubong Mindoro, sa paghahanda ng Pangiti namang nasambit ng amo, “ I Lea pananghalian para sa dalawa niyang alaga need to buy a new one. “ By Imelda Mae Bustinera dahil ihahatid pa niya ang bagong lutong Naitanong ni Verna sa sarili na kung pagkain sa paaralan. siya kaya ang nakabasag mapangiti rin MASAYAHIN si Lea, dalaga, 33 Bago mag-alas dose ay dapat makababa lang kaya sa kanya ang amo? taong gulang at tubong Quezon. na siya ng bahay kasi bibiyahe pa. Kailan- Shopaholic kasi ang among lalaki ni Nabasag ni amo Magaan din ang trabaho niya dito sa gan by 12:10 ng tanghali ay mailagay na Verna kaya pinapagalitan ng among ba- ang aquarium. Hong Kong. niya ito sa nakatalagang kariton ng pagka- bae. Kaya siguro natuwa pa ito ng maba- Malalaki na ang dalawa niyang in para sa maliliit na bata, at ang kawani ng Diyos mula Lunes hanggang Biyernes Kumakalat na rin ang tubig. Nilinis at sag ang aquarium dahil makapag-sh-shop- mga alaga kaya nakatuon na lang na ng paaralan ang mag-aakyat sa mga na maayos nya itong nagagawa. hinugasan ng amo ang aquarium at ng ping na naman siya. ang obligasyon niya sa pagluluto at silid aralan. Pero isang araw, habang hinihimay niya ibinabalik na ay marahil nabitawan o tu- Dahil naabala at nagamit ni Verna ang paglilinis ng bahay. Mababait ang Ang para sa nakatatandang niyang alaga ang gulay ay may narinig siyang wari ay mama sa patungan. Kahoy ang sahig nila oras sa paglinis ay hindi na niya naluto mga amo, pati na rin ang mga alaga; ay kailangan namang maiabot ng 12:20. nabasag na bote. Hindi siya nagkamali; kaya hindi pwedeng mababad ng matagal ang gulay. kapamilya ang turing sa kaniya. Magkalayo ang dalawang paaralan kaya pasigaw siyang tinawag ng among lalaki. dahil mangingitim ang pagitan ng mga ka- Nagprito na lang siya ng itlog na pan- Tulad ng karamihan, narito tayo sa kailangang matantiya ni Verna ang pagi- Paglapit ni Verna ay nakita niya ang nag- hoy o matutuklap. dagdag sa niluto niyang karneng baboy Hong Kong at nagtatrabaho bilang tan ng oras nang hindi sya magahol. Ilang kalat na pira-pirasong bahagi ng aquari- Patakbong humablot si Verna ng basa- at iyon ang inihatid sa paaralan ng mga kasambahay para sa ating mga mahal taon na rin naman sa araw-araw na ginawa um. hang tuwalya, kumuha ng plastic bag at alaga. sa buhay. Handang magtiis para maibigay at matustusan ang pangangailangan ng mga iniwan natin sa Pilipinas na Bibo lang si ate umaasa at naghihintay ng ating padala. By Imelda Mae Bustinera tumahimik ito at bigla na lang humagul- niya. pansin ko nga kasi tuloy-tuloy at ang haba Hindi na namalayan ni Lea na gol. Nalaman niya raw ito nang minsan na na ng sinabi at ikinuwento.” maraming taon na rin pala ang lumi- MARAMI na tayong naririnig, nababasa Hindi nakatiis si Samantha; nilapitan may okasyon sa paaralan nila nung ele- Maya-maya may lumapit na banyagang pas hanggang sa nawala na siya sa at nababalitaang mga pangyayari tulad ng niya at tinanong kung anong nangyari mentarya, pinatulong raw siya sa Home babae na kanina pa pala nagmamasid sa kalendaryo. Tanggap na niya na na- pagpapakamatay ng domestic worker, o dito. Sinabi ng babae na malaki na raw Economics sa paghahanda ng ipapakain isang tabi. pag-iwanan na siya ng panahon. pananakit sa amo. pala ang pinsalang nagagawa niya sa mga sa mga bisita, tapos nagtanong raw iyong Kinausap siya at nagpakilala na isa raw Hindi na niya naasikaso ang Kanya-kanya at sari-saring haka-haka taong nakakasalamuha niya at lalo na sa may pinakamataas na posisyon na bisita sa tauhan ng organisasyon na tumutulong pag-aasawa dahil alam niyang siya ang sinasabi ng bawat–baka pinagsaman- pagkatao niya. kung bakit nasa labas siya ng silid-aralan sa mga taong may emotional problem at lang ang inaasahan ng pamilya; talahan, o kaya’y may matinding proble- Napagsasabihan na raw siya na un- na dapat sa mga oras na iyon ay may klase depressed. lalo ngayon na may sakit ang nanay ma at walang napagsabihan kaya hindi na ethical. Ang tawag daw sa kanya ay ‘hy- siya. Ang nakatawag raw ng kuryusidad ni niya at hindi biro ang halaga ng mga nakayanan. per-active’ o ‘bibo-malikot’. Ang sabi raw ng guro ay pinalabas siya Samantha ay ang sinabi ng banyaga na gamot na kailangang inumin araw- Naalarma tuloy si Samantha nang mak- Nung bata pa raw siya ay hindi siya para tumulong nang sa ganun ay mala- “be aware of what you are if you are with araw. ita niyang nagsasalita mag-isa ang isang mapa-upo ng matagal sa isang tabi at ang man daw ng guro kung ang sagot ng mga someone in a higher level than you and Pero dahil na rin sa kakulitan ng kapwa Pinay sa paaralan na pinapasukan lagi siyang maraming tanong. Kaya nga kaklase ay talagang galing mismo sa nag- be aware of who you are if you are with mga kaibigan niya, nakiuso si Lea ng kaniyang alaga. raw nung nag-aaral pa, siya lagi ang ipina- sasalita kasi kapag andun daw siya sa loob someone in the same status. You must at natutong makipag-chat sa Inter- Pinagmasdan niya kung naka-earphone padala sa labas kapag nangangailangan ng ay dinidiktahan niya ang mga kaklase sa know where you should be.” net. Nakilala niya si Paeng na nasa at baka may kausap lang sa telepono, pero tutulong sa mga okasyon ng paaralan para isasagot. Napansin ni Samantha na may iniabot Pilipinas. Nagsimula sa pagiging wala naman siyang nakita. Maya-maya, lang huwag ma-istorbo ang mga kaklase Sa loob-loob naman ni Samantha, “na- na maliit na papel ang banyaga sa Filipina. magkaibigan at kalaunan ay naging magka-ibigan ang dalawa. Naging makulay ang mga oras ni Lea. Dumating na sa punto na kasama na rin si Paeng sa pinapadalhan niya. Kung anu-ano na ang hinihiling nito kahit hindi pa sila nagkikita ng per- sonal, sa webcam lang. Nang mag- bakasyon si Lea ay nagkita sila at nagkasundong magpakasal. Sa puntong ito, humingi na ng kung anu-anong luho si Paeng. Hum- ingi rin ito ng perang pampagawa daw ng bahay na titirhan nila pagkat- apos ng kasal. Pati pangangailangan ng pamilya ni Paeng ay sa kaniya at kinailangan na niyang mang-utang. Nabaon si Lea sa utang na umabot na sa mahigit HK$45,000. Hindi na niya ito kayang bayaran kaya para makakuha ng pera ay inaway niya ang amo at nagpa-terminate siya para makuha ang long service payment. Kulang pa rin ito na pambayad sa mga utang pero kailangan niyang makaalis sa bahay ng amo para makatakas sa collector at sa mga taong hiniraman niya. Sa ngayon ay nasa Macao si Lea, naghihintay ng visa para sa bago niyang amo. Sana may bahay ngang ipinapagawa ang ‘ka-ibigan’ niya, at sana siya ang ititira dito matapos ang ipinanga- kong kasal. 20 ENTERTAINMENT December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK Reel Time documentary wins Bubble Gang pays international grand prize GMA Network gave honor to Philippines ingful reforms in the education of the stu- tribute to Philippine anew as its flagship documentary program dents is the best reward we received for this Reel Time won the Grand Prize at this story,” said Santos, who received the award year’s Asia-Pacific Child Rights Awards from Andrew Brown of UNICEF East Asia for its documentary “Isinulat sa Tubig.” and Pacific Regional Office in a ceremony The network also earned a nomination held in Bali, Indonesia last October 24. comedy icons from the Asia Rainbow TV Awards for The Asia-Pacific Child Rights Award for “Naku, Boss Ko!” Television by Asia Pacific Broadcasting PHILIPPINE TV’s longest-running come- “Isinulat sa Tubig” is an eye-opening Union (ABU), Cable and Satellite Broad- dy show, Bubble Gang, celebrates its 21st documentary about a group of children casting Association of Asia (CASBAA), anniversary this year. Indeed, the laughter who needs to cross a part of an ocean and the United Nations Children’s Fund never stops for them. and trek up a mountain just to reach their (UNICEF) is the most prominent distinc- The show remains to be a favorite schools. It was written and directed by Ex- tion in Asia and the Pacific that recognizes among viewers for its unique, amusing ecutive Producer Jayson Bernard Santos. the efforts of broadcasters and producers and extraordinary parodies, sketches and “We are very much overwhelmed by in pursuing high quality children’s pro- gags. Reel Time’s third recognition from the gramming and better coverage of issues Kapuso comedy genius and Bubble Asia-Pacific Child Rights Award. The affecting children. Gang’s Creative Director Michael V. said documentary “Isinulat sa Tubig” resulted For five years in a row, documentary that he considers their audience as their in a collaboration among educators from programs from GMA Public Affairs have motivation and inspiration. Matnog in the Province of Sorsogon and won the Asia-Pacific Child Rights Award. “Palagi kong sinasabi sa mga kasama- viewers who sent donations after watching Reel Time took home three of these, while han ko dito na binabalik ko lang yung the documentary. The audience’s active I-Witness and Front Row won in 2012 and success ng show—yung glory and staying participation in starting small but mean- 2014, respectively. power namin— sa mga manunuod. Kasi for me, maganda yung relationship ng Bubble Gang sa audience,” Michael V. said. “We get inspiration from them Kum- baga kung wala yung society, hindi kami makakagawa ng parody, sketches, and jokes na about sa society. And we’re glad na-a-appreciate naman ng mga nakakapa- MICHAEL V. nood yun,” he added. In line with their anniversary celebra- gether with Andrea Torres, Antonio Paolo Contis, RJ Padilla, Rodfil Obeso, tion, the show pays tribute to 21 comedic Aquitania, Arra San Agustin, Arny Ross, Sef Cadayona and Valeen Montenegro. gems of Philippine cinema and televi- Betong Sumaya, Boy 2 Quizon, Chariz Get the latest updates of Bubble Gang sion by performing some of their famous Solomon, Denise Barbacena, Diego Llo- from their official website of GMA - Net sketches and scenes dubbed as 21 GANG rico, Jackie Rice, Jak Roberto, James Ma- work www.gmanetwork.com and offi- Salute on December 2. casero, Jan Manual, Juancho Trivino, Kim cial Facebook page www.facebook.com/ Catch Bubble Gang’s Michael V., to- Domingo, Mikael Daez, Myka Flores, GMANetwork. GMA shows improve lead over rivals GMA Network further increased its na- tionwide ratings lead over rival ABS- CBN, according to data from the industry’s widely trusted ratings service provider, Nielsen TV Audience Measurement. From October 13 to November 16 (with November 13 to 16 based on overnight data), GMA scored a total day people au- dience share of 40.1 percent, up 4.3 points from ABS-CBN’s 35.8 percent in National Urban Television Audience Measurement (NUTAM) and bested competition across Encantadia’s main characters all dayparts including the hotly contested primetime block. Totoo, the Network’s flagship newscast 24 percent), Eat Bulaga (7.2 percent), Wow- Kapuso primetime programs surged Oras, meanwhile, emerged as the number owin (7 percent), Sunday PinaSaya (6.8 ahead of competition and consisted ma- one primetime news program during the percent), Someone to Watch Over Me (6.8 jority (7 out of 10) of the top programs in same period with a people rating of 10.9 percent), Imbestigador (6.8 percent), and National Urban Philippines. percent, besting the competing network’s Superstar Duets (6.2 percent). As it continues to unveil new twists and newscast. It is tied with consistent top Viewers from across the country tuned characters, Encantadia made its way into rater Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho (KMJS) at in to GMA last November 6 to witness the top of the list of most-watched pro- the 4th and 5th place. Senator Manny “Pacman” Pacquiao re- grams for NUTAM, posting a people rat- The Kapuso Network also remained claim the WBO Welterweight title from ing of 12.8 percent. The Kapuso telefan- ahead on weekends as all-time favorites his opponent Jessie Vargas via “Resur- tasya is now the highest-rating primetime Magpakailanman (10.7 percent) and Pepi- gence: Pacquiao versus Vargas.” series in the country, outranking all shows to Manaloto (10.6 percent) occupied the Per Nielsen data, the bout which aired from the rival network. 6th and 7th place, leading their counter- exclusively on GMA on Philippine free The Dingdong Dantes-starrer Alyas part shows. Completing the list of Kapuso TV registered a 15.8 percent people rating Robin Hood (11.4 percent) also continued programs in the top 10 list is Hay Bahay! in National Urban Philippines, catapulting to drive GMA’s strong ratings on prime- (9.4 percent). it to the top of the list of most-watched time, drawing audiences with its relatable Also garnering top ratings in NUTAM programs and specials in the covered pe- and timely plot at 3rd place. are Tsuperhero (9.3 percent), Ismol Fam- riod. In Urban Luzon, GMA Network re- Known for its trademark Serbisyong ily (9.1 percent), 24 Oras Weekend (8.9 mained undefeated. HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 ENTERTAINMENT 21 Rufa Mae ikinasal na

By Cristy Kasilag sa una nilang anak ni Trevor. Babae raw Itinaon nila ang kasal sa petsa na ika-25 Rufa Mae. dib. Si Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bauti- ang magiging panganay nilang anak na ng Nobyembre dahil ang susunod na araw Masaya, nakakatawa at may mga na- sta ang nag officiate ng kasal. LUBOS ang kasiyahan ng comedienne ang magiging pangalan ay Alexandria. ay kaarawan ni Trevor. Magkakataon na kakaiyak na kaganapan sa kasal ng bagong May mga naiyak nang pagbukas ng na si Rufa Mae Quinto nuong ika-25 ng Mas matanda si Rufa Mae ng 10 taon Thanksgiving din ito sa US. Mr. and Mrs. Trevor Magallanes. pinto at nakita ng mga bisita at myem- Nobyembre nang ikinasal siya sa kanyang kay Trevor, na isang Filipino-American Ang dapat nga daw ay nuong ika-3 ng Isang puting vintage na kotse ang bro ng pamilya na naglalakad si Rufa fiancé na si Trevor Magallanes. financial analyst. Si Rufa Mae ay 39 anyos Pebrero pa sila kinasal sa San Francisco, naghatid kay Rufa Mae sa Blue Leaf Cos- Mae. Makikita sa kanyang maningning Naganap ang kasalan dalawang buwan na samantala ang kanyang asawa ay 29 California pero ang sabi ni Trevor ay gus- mopolitan sa Libis, Quezon City kung na mukha ang kasiyahan na sa wakas ay bago inaasahang manganak si Rufa Mae taong gulang lamang. to niyang bigyan ng magandang kasal si saan ginanap ang kanilang pag-iisang dib- ikakasal na siya. Bad boy Baron umeksena uli

By Cristy Kasilag

NASA balita na naman ang aktor na si Baron Geisler. Ito ay dahil may ginawang kababuy- an ang 34-anyos na sana ay magaling na aktor sa kapwa niyang artista na si Ping Medina. At sa laban na ito ay hindi lamang si Ping ang kanyang nakaaway, kundi pati ang direktor na si Arlyn dela Cruz, ang pinuno ng Film Development Council of the Philippines (FDCP), at ang Profes- sional Artist Managers, Inc. (PAMI). Ang kwento ay magkasama si Ping at Baron na gumagawa ng pelikula na “Bu- bog”. Nag-usap pa nga daw sila at sina- bihan ni Ping ang kapwa aktor na kung maari ay tumigil na sa pag-inom ng alak. Humingi raw si Baron ng pera kay Ping na nagbigay ng P200 sa pag-aakala na gagamitin ito para bumili ng pagkain. Na- gulat na lang si Ping ng nakita itong may dalang beer. Sa isang eksena, na kinunan sa dilim, ay nakagapos ang kamay ni Ping at may tape ang kanyang bibig dahil sa ginagawang pelikula ay biktima siya ng extrajudicial killing (EJK). Bigla daw may binulong si Baron sa kanya na, “May gagawin ako sa yo Ping ha. Sana wag ka magalit.” Nagulat na lang daw si Ping nung ini- hian siya ni Baron. Sa galit ay Ping ay nasuntok niya ang pader ng container van. Ang kwento ni Ping ang dapat na gagawin lang daw ni Baron ay tatanggalin ang tape sa kanyang bibig para pakinggan ang pag hingi ng tawad ni Ping at aalis na ito, habang ang tatlo nitong goons ay maiiwan. Pero hindi ganun ang nangyari. Ang depensa ni Baron ay nagpaalam siya kay Ping at Direk Arlyn kung ano ang gagawin niya at naka record daw yun da- hil may mga kamera sa set, pwera na lang daw kung binura nila ito.

BARON 22 ATBP December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK

Horoscope What’s Cooking?

Nothing beats a meal that’s both delicious parsley, paprika, and December 22 to January 19 Capricorn and nutritious. And that’s exactly what we’re sunflower oil until well Sa bawat pagsubok ay tiyak na may kalunasan. Huwag ng malumbay giving you for this issue. Kitchen-fanatics, coated and blended. at malalampasan mo rin ang lahat ng mga iyan. Subukan mong behold our very own recipe for Baked Baby Sprinkle with salt and paniwalaan ang iyong kutob, tiyak na hindi ka maliligaw. Potatoes. This dish will surely leave you full, pepper and toss to satisfied, and most of all, healthy! Happy coat. cooking! Bake until tender and Aquarius January 20 to February 18 golden for about 50 Siguraduhin mong tama ang hinala bago ka magbintang upang Ingredients: minutes. hindi mapaaway. Ang pagtulong sa kapwa ay tunay na banal na gawain. Makararamdam ka ng pananamlay kaya magpahinga muna ½ kg baby potatoes, scrubbed Serve hot or warm. mula. 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp. parsley, minced Pisces February 19 to March 20 1/8 cup sunflower oil Sikaping maging maagap sa pagtupad ng mga gawain upang Salt and pepper to taste For more recipes, enroll at Culinary maiwasan ang pagmamadali. Isang pagsubok ang iyong A dash of paprika Arts Centre M/F Cockloft, Wing Tat daraanan na kakailanganin ang iyong karunungan at ingat. Procedure: Commercial Building #97 Bonham Strand Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. East, Sheung Wan. For enquiries, please By Chef Jay Put the potatoes in a large bowl. Mix with garlic, call at 28507714 or 28507724 Dator March 21 to April 19 Aries Piliin ang mga bagay na kailangan nang i-let go upang lumuwag Dentista: Matapang ka na ba? Mag-asawang nag-aaway. Sinampal ni misis si Pasyente: Oo doc, ‘pag may gumalaw sa ngipin mister. ang kalooban. Isang di inaaasahang panauhin ang darating na ko gugulpihin ko! Misis: Sino si Jasmine na tinawag mo sa kukumpleto sa iyong araw. Manalangin na ang matutuklasan ay panaginip mo? magdudulot ng saya. Russian: We are first to step on Mars. Mister: Yung kabayong bet ko sa karera! Ano American: We are first to step on the moon. ka ba naman! Russian and American: How About you Mr. Erap, Kinabukasan, sinampal ulit ni misis si mister. Taurus April 20 to May 20 What have you DONE? Mister: O bakit na naman?? Makakasalamuha mo ang isang taong sikat na magiging kaibigan Erap: Me? I’m first to step on the SUN!. Misis: Tumawag kabayo mo! Teacher: Use KITCHEN and CURTAIN in a Russian and American: But, we can’t go to the mo. Isa ito sa mga pinakamasayang Pasko sa iyong buhay dahil sentence. Sun, it’s too hot! May apat na pari na sakay ng tren papuntang makakatanggap ka ng isang regalong hindi mo inaasahan. Maging Barok: Easy ma’am! Wag mo akong CURTAIN Erap: (Naiinis pa) What do you think of me probinsya. Malayo ang lakbayin kaya naisipan optimistic sa bagong taon. masa KITCHEN. idiot? WE GO THERE AT NIGHT! nilang magsabihan ng sikreto. Teacher: Ano?? Dyaskeng bata! Use SCHOOLING Pari 1: Ang sikreto ko ay may syota akong GRO. in a sentence. Tanga 1: Ano bang hinahanap mo diyan sa supot Pari 2: Ako naman ay pumupunta sa beerhouse Gemini May 21 to June 20 Barok: Kring, kring (phone rings)... Hello? Who ng 3-in-1 coffee? Kanina ka pa silip nang silip gabi-gabi. Huwag mag-alinlangan na gamitin ang iyong isip upang makaahon SCHOOLING? diyan. Pari 3: Ang sikreto ko ay nagnanakaw ako sa Tanga 2: Hinahanap ko yung libreng asukal. kaban ng simbahan at nagsusugal. sa hirap. May oportunidad na darating, huwag mo itong palampasin. Jinggoy: Dad, pang ilang Tirso Cruz na si Tirso Nakasulat kasi sa karton “SUGAR FREE.” Pari 1,2,3 (nakatingin kay Pari 4): Ikaw? Patunayan na kaya mong tumayo sa sariling paa. Magpakabusog sa Cruz III? Pari 4: Ang sikreto ko ……… TSISMOSO AKO! pagmamahal ng pamilya. Erap: (Natawa) Trick question ba yan anak? Eh, Bagong kasal si Pancho at Lala. di pang-lima, kaya nga PIP ang tawag sa kanya, Lala: Honey, malapit na tayong maging tatlo sa Misis: Honey luma na ang mga bra ko. Bili mo di ba? bahay na ito. ako ng bago. Cancer June 21 to July 22 Pancho: Talaga?? Honey pinasaya mo ako ng Mister: Huwag na honey, maliit naman yang Magdiwang at magpasalamat sa Diyos sa lahat ng biyayang nakamit Pasyente: Doc takot ako sa bunot eh! todo sa balita mo! boobs mo eh sayang lang ang pera. Dentista: Heto gamot pampalakas ng loob. Lala: Oo, dito na titira ang nanay ko. Misis: Eh, bakit ikaw naka brief ka? Eh, di at kalimutan ang kalungkutan. Huwag aksayahin ang pera sa walang Pasyente: (uminom ng gamot) sinayang mo lang ang pera! kwentang bagay.

Leo July 23 to August 22 Kung magiging positibo ang pananaw, magsisimula ng maayos ang Crossword Puzzle takbo ng buhay. Mahalagang pag-usapan kaagad kung malabo na ang relasyon. PAHALANG 38 ______Jacinto; 1 Walang kibo boldstar 7 Abang 39 Salmo Virgo August 23 to September 22 11 Saluysoy Marami kang taong makakasalamuha na magdudulot sa iyo ng panibagong sigla. Sila ang makakatulong mo sa pag-unlad kaya’t 12 Hane PABABA makisama nang mabuti. Huwag ka ma-guilty dahil tama lang ang 13 Kamote 1 Di makapaniwala naging desisyon mo. Manindigan dahil nasa katwiran ka. 14 hayan sa harap 2 Ka-partner ng kanin 15 Boss 3 Yero Libra September 23 to October 22 16 Ina ni Maria 4 Aba Ibayong kaligayahan ang mararamdaman. Siguraduhing marami at kumpleto ang pagkaing inihanda dahil lulusob ang iyong mga 18 Suyo 5 Aliwan kaibigan. Maging mapamaraan sa pakikitungo sa mga taong 19 Ariin 6 Bahagyang bukas makakausap. Makakamit mo rin ang ninanais. 21 Amba 7 Siguro 24 Ulam na maanghang 8 Taguri kay Rizal Answer to last puzzle Scorpio October 23 to November 21 25 Name; Tagalog 9 Leksiyon Magdiwang at magpasalamat sa Diyos sa lahat ng biyayang 27 ____ Medel; artista 10 Question; Tagalog natatanggap. Huwag na huwag ibibigay ang sarili hangga’t hindi 28 linamnam pag inulit 17 Sikat nakakasal, ikaw rin ang magsisisi. Huwag aksayahin ang pera sa walang kwentang bagay. 29 Ikli ng Kapitan 19 Apelyidong intsik 32 Sutlang pinya 20 Palayaw ni Christian 29 Bawat Sagittarius November 22 to December 21 34 Ginagamit ng 21 Rentahan 30 Bawal Alisin muna pride sa iyong katawan upang makapag-usap kayo manghuhula 22 Mahinhin 31 Gawa ng bugbog ng ng nakasamaan ng loob. Magtipid, maging masinop. Magiging masaya ang Paskong ito dahil sa pagbisita ng importanteng tao. 36 Tagulamin 23 Bulungan 33 Buti 37 Tatak ng sapatos 26 Hindi loob 35 Din HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK December 15, 2016 23 24 December 15, 2016 HONGKONGNEWS.COM.HK