Some Ofws Are Returning Home As Economy Perks Up

June 15, 2013 1

Vol. XXII, No. 15 Online: www. manilamail.us June 15, 2013 Some OFWs are returning home as economy perks up By Karen Lema ﬁ dence in an economy that for luxurious casino resort, one of decades has seen millions leave 400 overseas Filipinos who came MANILA (Reuters) - Mateo in search of better prospects home to work at the hotel. Ragonjan took a leap of faith in overseas. “The Philippines is boom- August last year. (Many Filipino Americans ing at the moment, so I thought The executive sous-chef of are now acquiring dual citizen- it was the right time to go a seven-star luxury hotel in Abu ships in preparation for going back,” Ragonjan, 41, said on a Dhabi packed his bags to take up home or have already relocated break from his 10-hour shift at a similar job back home in the back to the Philippines.) the Solaire Resort & Casino in Manila Bay, developed at a cost Philippines. Ragonjan now helps run a of $1.2 billion. He is one of a small group of 300-man kitchen that caters to The Philippines economy is like-minded Filipinos returning guests and high-rollers ﬂ ock- Continued on page 23 Former OFW Rennel Lansang, who works in Casino Solaire, poses with wife to jobs back home, a sign of con- ing to Manila’s newest and most and daughter in their house in Metro Manila. Charice

the question that lingers in the “Manila Mail” on June 11, Liz offi ce declined to comment on says: Yes minds of thousands, includ- Mills, director of media relations the results of the autopsy. ing the Philippine embassy, the and communications of the Lou- The Sheriff’s deputies I am a “Washington Post” and Filipino doun County Sheriff’s Offi ce, claimed self-defense after their American organizations follow- said the case of the fatal shooting stun gun reportedly failed and ‘lesbian’ ing the killing of Mylene de Leon of Mylene is now being handled she came after them with a MANILA -Former “Glee” Scott,38, a diminutive FilAm by Commonwealth of Virginia pair of scissors and knife in her actress and international singing woman by 2 Sheriff’s deputies at Attorney Jim Plowman. hands. sensation Charice Pempengco the Costco store in Sterling, Vir- This came as the remains of Earlier, Clift Scott, Mylene’s has come out as gay! Mylene De Leon-Scott ginia on May 29. Costco shooting victim Mylene ex-husband who is with the mili- In a candid interview on TV, The answer to this question De Leon-Scott, 38, have been tary, told ABS-CBN News that Charice revealed she is a lesbian may come soon. claimed from the Medical Exam- he and Mylene’s uncle, Virgil and apologized to those who By Boots Felixberto The case is now in the hands iner’s Offi ce in Manassas, Vir- Salvador, were talking to funeral might not understand. & the ‘Mail’ staff of the Commonwealth of Vir- ginia last week by her uncle and homes regarding the funeral ser- But days later, she said she was overwhelmed by positive ginia Attorney Jim Plowman. ex-husband. Continued on page 23 STERLING, VA - This is When contacted by the The Medical Examiner’s response to her coming out. Charice did not expect the overwhelmingly positive Obama pushes, ‘Kabang,’ gets hero’s welcome; response to her admission that she is a lesbian. Charice said she felt free Senate OKs will be ‘dog envoy to the world’ after the interview with Boy MANILA- Hero dog Abunda on “The Buzz” on TV immig debates “Kabang,” a mixed-breed who but was also worried because she lost her snout to save the lives of had no idea if the public, particu- By an overwhelming bipar- two girls in Zamboanga city, was tisan vote on June 11, the Senate mobbed like a rock star upon her passed the procedural hurdle return early on June 8 from the to start debates on the compre- United States, where she under- hensive immigration bill even went medical treatment for eight as President Obama said “the months. moment is now” to give 11 mil- She received a similar lion undocumented immigrants “hero’s welcome” June 9 when a chance to acquire US citizen- she returned to her owners in ship. Zambaonga city. But Republicans who joined When Kabang and her han- the Democrats served notice dler, Filipino veterinarian Anton however that they will seek to Lim, arrived at around 3:30 a.m. toughen the bill’s border security at Ninoy Aquino International provisions and impose tougher “Kabang” poses like a Rock Star as news photographers take his picture Airport Terminal 2 on board Charice Pempengco upon her arrival in Manila. Continued on page 22 Continued on page 22 Continued on page 21 FilAm teen dies in BRP Alcaraz sails Obama, Xi mishap P7 for PH P8 summit P9 Salute to Philippines’ 115th anniversary! 22 June 15, 2013 Pinoy tutor seeks to lead DC union By Rodney J. Jaleco by US public schools who were through their unions.” president for special education in Maryland. lured by the promise of better “There are so many things from 2007-2010, a member of the She says the “prospects are A Filipino special educa- pay and a slice of the “American both exciting and frightening” tion teacher at the Jefferson dream”. as she cobbled a multicultural Academy Middle School in DC They fi lled an acute teacher and multi-generational ticket says the diversity that’s fueled shortage especially in tough, which, she vowed, would bring much of the growth in places like troubled inner city schools that “real” changes in the WTU. “We the nation’s capital should be struggled to meet standards have exceptional candidates refl ected in their workers unions imposed by the Bush-era No in our slate (4 of them are also as well. Child Left Behind Act. The Fili- Filipinos), who carry the prom- This is the reason why Mari- pino mentors can be found vir- ise of being real game-changers because of our diversity, prob- sol Angala, a University of the tually everywhere in America, lem solving skills and courage to Philippines-trained teacher at from top-tier East Coast acad- speak on behalf of our teachers Jefferson Middle School for the emies to sparse Indian reserva- and students,” she explained. past decade, has been outspoken tions in the New Mexico desert. They are pressing for an and passionate about fi nding “Times have changed,” “objective and fair evaluation better ways to educate America’s Angala declared, “and public system and due process aligned education has evolved.” school children. with that system.” She sees the She wants to steer WTU It’s driven her to an unprec- Filipino teacher Marisol Angala (ledft) poses with fellow teachers and DC inordinate emphasis on high- edented campaign for the presi- towards her vision of the future. delegate Norton in this fi le photo. stakes tests and the lack of sup- dency of the 4,000-strong Wash- “There’s a battle being waged port and resources to teachers happening right now at the Asian & Pacifi c American Labor ington Teachers Union (WTU). right now,” Angala averred, as the biggest problems bedevil- local and national level which Alliance (APALA), the Teacher Angala is one of hundreds of “it’ss not about unions standing ing the DC Public School system Filipino teachers in the vanguard up for teachers; it’s about teach- lead to frustration, anger and all Leaders Network and the Delta today. of the foreign recruiting binge ers standing up for themselves those are harmful not only to the Kappa Gamma International ‘We should now be think- teachers but also to the children Society for Key Women Educa- ing how we can change our whose lives we continue to infl u- tors. traditional practices to better ence daily,” she said, adding that She is board certifi ed as an refl ect the tasks assigned to our “when I empower, encourage exceptional needs specialist and schools, teachers and students,” and inspire teachers to do their was named Outstanding Special she said, stressing that “teachers best for the kids, I am impacting Education Teacher (2008-2009) should be treated as partners in the lives of more than just the by the National Association reforms.” students in my classroom.” for Special Education Teachers Her ‘platform” includes Angala is a familiar face in (NASET). She also has two blogs providing more resources to DC the education protest scene of “Digital Anthology” is the online public school teachers, lower DC (something she attributes extension of her classroom and class sizes especially for schools to years at UP where she says “Teacher Sol” where she tackles in poverty-stricken communi- she learned stand up for what’s education-related issues, includ- ties, and building respect for right). She was WTU’s vice ing the plight of Filipino mentors teachers. June 15, 2013 3 VA, N. Carolina focus of Cuisia’s economic drive WASHINGTON, D.C.—The or competitiveness rankings, the proven competitive advantage, and Mayor Nancy McFarlane them to expand their operations Philippines continues to take Philippine economy is at an all- the signifi cant talent and skills in the state capital, Raleigh. He in the Philippines. Cuisia also advantage of its new status as an time high in many respects. The of the Filipino workforce, as well also visited the North Caro- met with Councilman David emerging tiger with by intensify- reason is simple: we believe that as priority being given by the lina Biotechnology Center as Howard of Charlotte, home to ing its economic diplomacy blitz good governance is good eco- government in various sectors well as companies in Raleigh energy and power companies in the United States to promote nomics.” such as information technology greater trade and investment. The Ambassador visited and business process outsourc- and High Point such as Phillips like Duke Energy, which ranks The focus of the latest eco- North Carolina from 20 to 22 ing, agribusiness, mining, tour- Collection, RF Micro Devices No. 2 in banking and fi nancial nomic diplomacy efforts were May and Virginia on 16 to 17 ism, housing, shipbuilding and Inc., and Arbovax to encourage services in the United States. the states of North Carolina and May. He was accompanied in energy.

Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. chats with Filipino American workers in a North Carolina company.

Virginia, which were visited by both trips by Commercial Coun- “I see tremendous market Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia only sellor Maria Roseni Alvero and opportunities for Philippine a few weeks after the successful Second Secretary and Consul exports particularly of food, gar- holding of the 2nd Philippine Lilibeth Almonte-Arbez who ments and furniture and inter- Investment Roadshow in Cali- along with Second Secretary and est in investments in electronics fornia, Illinois and Massachu- Consul Angelito Nayan com- manufacturing and biotechnol- setts. prise the Embassy’s economic ogy, and clinical research out- “This is a good time to team. sourcing ,” the Ambassador said, enhance our trade relations, In his meetings with offi cials as he also fl agged the potentials given the renewed optimism and business leaders in North for public-private partnership in and confi dence in the Philip- Carolina and Virginia, Cuisia infrastructure development spe- pines under President Benigno made sure he was able to put cifi cally in energy and transport S. Aquino III’s administration,” the Philippines on their radar sectors. Cuisia said. “Whether in terms screen, in terms of its strategic In North Carolina, Cuisia of our macroeconomic indicators location in Southeast Asia, its called on Governor Pat McCrory 44 June 15, 2013 Obama thanks AAPI for their contribution to US Following is the full text members of Congress; we’ve got Maya; their beautiful daughters Cruz, whose work represents ness, while still maintaining the of President Barack Obama’s members of my administration; -- my nieces, Suhaila and Savita. the spirit of my native Hawaii enduring strength of our laws. remarks during reception at the we’ve got lots of special guests I can think back on my col- and reminds us that we re all And the service and the leader- White House to Asian Americian and talented performers. lege years when my roommates part of the same ohana. We ship of Asian Americans and Pacifi c Islanders on May 28. And every day, we re were Indian and Pakistanis, have authors like Amy Tan, who Pacifi c Islanders have proved THE PRESIDENT: Thank which is how I learned how to uses her own family s immigra- that point time and again. you, everybody. Thank you so cook keema and dal. (Laughter tion story to trace the stories of So we take opportunities much. (Applause.) Everybody, and applause.) Very good. And others. She makes out of the par- like today to honor the legacy please have a seat. Thank you so of course, I can dig back into my ticular something very universal. of those who paved the way, much. Aloha! own memories of growing up in We value these voices like my friend, the late Senator Hawaii and in Indonesia. And AUDIENCE: Aloha! because from the very begin- from Hawaii, Daniel Inouye, so certainly it s been a central ning, ours has been a nation of the fi rst Japanese American to THE PRESIDENT: Wel- part of my life, the entire Asia immigrants; a nation challenged serve in Congress -- and to cel- come to the White House, every- Pacifi c region. and shaped and pushed ever ebrate the pioneers of this gen- body. And thank you, Joan, for But it s more than food and forward by diverse perspec- eration, like Congresswoman the introduction. And I want family -- because generations tives and fresh thinking. And in Tammy Duckworth, one of the to thank everybody who s here of Asian Americans and Pacifi c order to keep our edge and stay fi rst female veterans elected to -- the incredible warmth of the Islanders helped build this coun- ahead in the global race, we need Congress. (Applause.) And one reception. A sign of the warmth try, and helped to defend this to fi gure out a way to fi x our of my favorite people right now, is the lipstick on my collar. country, and to make America broken immigration system -- to Sri Srinivasan, who has just been (Laughter.) I have to say I think what it is today. It s a history welcome that infusion of new- confi rmed. I know the culprit -- where is Jes- that speaks to the promise of our sica Sanchez? (Laughter.) Jes- nation -- one that welcomes the sica -- it wasn t Jessica. It was President Obama points to lipstick contributions of all people, no her aunt. Where is she? (Laugh- in his collar. matter their color or their beliefs, ter.) Auntie, right there. Look at reminded of the many ways in because we draw from the rich this. (Laughter.) Look at this. I which Asian Americans, Native traditions of everybody who just want everybody to witness. Hawaiians, Pacifi c Island- calls America home. E pluribus (Laughter.) So I do not want ers have all contributed and unum -- out of many, one. to be in trouble with Michelle. And the artists joining us enriched our nation throughout (Laughter.) That’s why I’m today exemplify that creed. So our history. Obviously for me, calling you out right in front of we ve got performers like Karsh I don’t have to look any further everybody. (Laughter.) Kale, who fuses the best of East We are here today to honor than my own family. I’ve got and West, mixing eclectic beats my brother-in-law here, Konrad, Photo shows at left, Virgie Bugay, the grandmother of singing sensation Jes- the incredibly rich heritage and with the sounds of his heritage sica Sanchez who was the culprit in planting a lipstick on President Obama’s who is -- (applause) -- Konrad contributions of Asian Ameri- and creating music that s dis- collar which made it to the national news. Others are, from left, Edna P. Ng, who s heading up the Smith- cans and Pacifi c Islanders. And tinctly his own -- that s a trait, Pestano, Jessica Sanchez, Editha Sanchez (Jessica’s Mother), Bing Branigin, there s no better example of that sonian Asian American Center obviously, that s distinctly NaFFAA; and Cristeta P. Comerford, White House executive chef, during diversity than the people who -- it probably has a longer name American. We ve got musi- the reception for Asian American and Pacifi c Islanders leaders at the White are in this room. We’ve got than that. (Laughter.) My sister, cians like Paula Fuga and John House, May 28. June 15, 2013 5 Filner lauds Cuisia for inspiring FilAm youth SAN DIEGO, California - “It mittee on Veterans Affairs of the socio-civic bodies, are being the Philippines (TftP) initiative of sador Cuisia also took the time is not usual for an ambassador United States House of Repre- identifi ed to fi ll this gap. Angela Lagdameo and Michael to meet with members of the to be involved in this kind of sentatives. Cuisia met with the young Vea. TftP is the 25th partner of Filipino American community things.” These were the words The Ambassador congratu- Filipino American leaders and Teach For All, a global network at the Cultural Arts Center in the of San Diego City Mayor Bob lated Filner on his election as successful entrepreneur Tony of social enterprises working to suburb of Rancho del Rey. Filner, as he lauded the efforts mayor of San Diego last Novem- Olaes in San Diego to further expand educational opportunity In the same day, the Phil- of Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia ber. He noted that San Diego, discuss ways to tap the enthu- in their respective nations. Its ippine American Business and Jr.’s to inspire the next genera- which calls itself “America’s siasm and dynamism of second mission is to close the education Improvement Development tion of Filipino Americans and Finest City,” is home to close to and third generation Filipino gap that exists in the Philippines (Philam BID) hosted a dinner for steer their community to greater 148,000 Filipino Americans and Americans, who are increasingly by recruiting persons that would its members and special guests in heights. expressed the hope that the com- immersing themselves in various volunteer two years of their honor of the Ambassador, who Cuisia brought along the munity will be properly repre- advocacies. lives to serve in under resourced was conferred the Philam BID’s 2012 Filipino American Youth sented in the city’s affairs. Cuisia’s meeting with the schools in Metro Manila. From Leadership Program (FYLPro) The FYLPro aims to address delegates provided an opportu- the US, only six out of over 200 Starblazer Agoncillo “Global delegates to the San Diego City such concerns, as exceptional nity for each of them to apprise applicants hurdled the stringent Filipino Diplomat” award Hall on 31 May during his cour- individuals with leadership one another of their respective requirements to qualify as TftP for his outstanding achieve- tesy call on the former congress- skills and proven involvement projects. volunteers. ment in the fi eld of diplomacy. man, who once chaired the Com- with political, economic and Among them is the Teach for While in San Diego, Ambas- 6 June 15, 2013 June 15, 2013 7 FilAm teen killed in skateboarding accident ARLINGTON,Virginia - An School offi cials lowered the liked him.”“-John was probably John, may also have run over planned to go to VCU in the fall 18-year-old Filipino American school’s fl ag at half-staff and one of the sweetest people I’ve his friend. When John fell to the for nursing. kid who was scheduled to grad- hundreds attended a prayer met in my entire life ground, he suffered a signifi cant “This was pretty uncharac- uate from Washington Lee High service the next day held at St. and I will always remember head trauma and left a large pool teristic of him. I’ve told a couple of blood on the road when para- School this week was killed in Thomas More Catholic church him,”- one student said. people this didn’t seem like the a skateboard accident at about kind of thing he would do,”- 12:30 p.m. here June 4, 2013. says Brandon Toone, who Police say Malvar was cling- had just gone to the prom ing to the side of a pickup truck with John May 31. driven by a schoolmate while Like a lot of Arlington teens, skateboarding when he fell and he’s struggling with the fact that hit his head at the 300 block of the smiling teen he loved so South Highland Street in Arling- much is gone. ton County. He was not wearing Via Twitter, Washington- a helmet. Lee Principal Gregg Robertson Police say Malvar was doing called Malvar “-an awesome kid’ something similar to “-skitch- who was proud of his perfect ing,”- which is riding on a skate- attendance this year. board while holding onto the Robertson sent the follow- back of a car. He lost his balance, ing email to parents later. “-Dear fell, and hit his head. He died John Malvar Washington-Lee Community, at George Washington Hospital. Flag fl ies at half staff at Washington Lee High School in Arlington in memory regrettably, I must inform you of John Malvar. Police have not decided where John was very active and that the injured student I men- whether to charge the driver popular. Malvar fell just outside his medics arrived. tioned in my earlier email has who reportedly has a bad driv- The school offi cials also peer Brittany’s home on S. High- Medics performed CPR, died. This is a diffi cult time for ing record. His identity was not allowed John’s father, George the Washington-Lee staff, stu- land Street. “-Someone called Malvar regained a pulse, and he revealed. Malvar, to receive his son’s dents, and parents. The student me, one of my best friends who’s was rushed to George Washing- The 18-year-old was in the diploma during graduation rites ton University in critical condi- involved was an incredible really good friends with John as “-prime of his life,”- his father last week. His mother died sev- tion, police said. He was later young man who contributed well, and said ‘That was John,’ said, “-eager to go to college at eral years ago. John’s co-gradu- pronounced dead. positively in many ways to our and I instantly burst into tears,”- Virginia Commonwealth Uni- ates also wore a ribbon to honor Guys who have skated with school and lives. The upcoming versity, eager to start working him. she says. John say skitching is not common days will be diffi cult ones as we toward his goal of becoming a “-He was a good kid,”- said Police said the 17-year-old in Arlington. will be missing him and provid- nurse. his father, George Malvar. “-He’s driver of the pickup truck, who They say it was out of ing support to our Washington- Washington Lee High always smiling, and everybody attended the same school as character for their friend, who Lee family.” 88 June 15, 2013 ‘We will defend our territory,’ Cuisia tells ‘Alcaraz’ crew CHARLESTON, South downing three enemy aircraft expressed his appreciation to place in his heart, having served bayans here in South Carolina Carolina—The Philippines will while commanding the Q112 the United States Government as Naval Reserve Corps Com- for opening the doors of their exert all efforts to ease tensions Abra, a 55-foot offshore patrol for transferring what was for- mander during his time at De La homes to the men and women of in the West Philippine Sea but boat, during the Japanese inva- merly the USCGC Dallas to the Salle University in Manila. the Alcaraz and taking them in as it will also defend its territory sion of the Philippines. Alcaraz Philippine Navy and to the US He congratulated the offi - their own,” he said. if needed, Ambassador Jose L. was captured and imprisoned Navy and the US Coast Guard cers and crew for their dedication The Ambassador was Cuisia Jr. told the offi cers and by the Japanese but survived the for ensuring the vessel’s success- to duty for surviving more than a crew of the country’s newest warship, the BRP Ramon Alcaraz (PF-16), on the eve of its departure for Manila. “As you know, there are some tensions in the West Philip- pine Sea and this may put you in harm’s way but there is no doubt that you will perform your duty of protecting Philippine territory if needed,” the Ambassador said in his remarks during his visit to the ship at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center here on June 9. “We do not want to see a Amb. Cuisia meets offi cers of the “BRP Alcaraz.” The refurbished warship leaves port for trip to Philippines. confrontation and we are hoping that diplomatic efforts would war and went on to serve in the ful retrofi tting at a cost of $15.6 year away from their loved ones accompanied during his visit to ease these tensions,” Cuisia said. Navy where he retired as com- million. in the Philippines as a result of the Alcaraz by offi cers from the “We are for peace and for the modore in 1966. He passed away “We look forward to the the extended refurbishment of Philippine Embassy in Washing- stability of the region but at the in 2009. Alcaraz joining its sister ship, the the vessel and their training. ton D.C. led by First Secretary same time, we are prepared to “Ramon Alcaraz had a very BRP Gregorio Del Pilar,” Ambas- During his visit, the Ambas- and Consul Elmer Cato, Defense defend what is ours.” distinguished record in serv- sador Cuisia said, referring to the sador also had the chance to and Naval Attache Capt. Elson The Ambassador told Capt. ing our country and our people. other Hamilton-class cutter that meet with members of the Fili- Aguilar, Air Force Attache Col. Ernesto Baldovino and the offi - You are expected to live up to his was earlier acquired from the US pino Community who attended Arnel Duco and Veterans Affairs cers, men and women of the reputation,” Cuisia told the 88 in 2011. “We look forward to fur- a farewell reception on board the Alcaraz that they are all expected offi cers and crew of the 378-foot ther upgrading the capabilities Alcaraz. He paid tribute to the Representative Retired Maj. Gen. to live up to the reputation of Alcaraz, the second weather high of the Philippine Navy.” community for serving as foster Delfi n Lorenzana. Commodore Ramon Alcaraz, endurance cutter (WHEC) that Cuisia wished Captain families to the crew thus allow- The vessel left at 10 a.m. on a World War II hero, in whose the Philippines acquired from Baldovino and his crew a safe ing them to easily cope with their June 10 and is expected to arrive honor the warship was named. the United States last year. journey to the Philippines and extended stay in the US. in the Philippines in the fi rst Alcaraz was credited for In his remarks, Cuisia also told them the Navy has a special “We are grateful to our kaba- week of August. June 15, 2013 9 Obama, Xi discuss issues, territorial claims President Barack Obama night dinner. economic relationship,” said and China’s President Xi Jinping They had much to discuss, Donilon. met at Rancho Mirage in Califor- with tensions rising over U.S. Yang, briefi ng Chinese nia June 7-8 to discuss various allegations about Chinese hack- reporters, said Beijing wanted issues between the two coun- ing of industrial secrets, an issue cooperation rather than fric- tries, including cyber security, that Donilon said Obama raised tion with the United States over North Korea, US pivot in Asia, directly with his Chinese coun- cybersecurity. and territorial claims in the East terpart. Beijing insists it is more and South China seas. Obama described to Xi the a victim than a perpetrator of Their wide-ranging discus- exact kinds of problems the cyber espionage. sions at their two-day meeting United States was concerned Obama and Xi agreed to included North Korea’s saber- about regarding cyber thievery cooperate in fi ghting climate rattling as well as the US’s and said that if they were not change by cutting the use of increased military presence in addressed, it would become a hydrofl uorocarbons, the White the Pacifi c. President Obama and Chinese President Xi Jingpin during summit meet in California. “very diffi cult problem in the House said. China has grown increasingly frustrated at North Korea security ally of Japan, says it is Cold War ally that serves as a over its nuclear tests and missile neutral about sovereignty over buffer between China and demo- launches. the islets, but opposes the use cratic South Korea, which hosts White House national secu- of force or unilateral efforts to 28,000 U.S. troops. rity adviser Tom Donilon told change the status quo. The two leaders wrestled reporters that Obama and Xi Observers believe this stance with how to handle China’s rise “agreed that North Korea has to also applies to China’s confron- on the world stage, more than denuclearize, that neither coun- tation with the Philippines in the 40 years after President Richard try will accept North Korea as a Spratlys and Panatag Shoal. Nixon’s groundbreaking visit nuclear-armed state and that we Chinese State Council- to Communist China in 1972 would work together to deepen lor Yang Jiechi told a separate ended decades of estrangement cooperation and dialogue to news conference that Xi had between Washington and Bei- achieve denuclearization.” They also discussed the told Obama that China and the jing. confrontation with Japan over United States were “the same in In talks that may set the the Senkaku islands in the East their positions and objectives” on stage for U.S.-Chinese rela- China sea. The dispute has esca- the North Korean nuclear issue. tions for years to come, Obama lated to the point where China Analysts cautioned that and Xi spent about eight hours and Japan scramble fi ghter jets it remained unclear and prob- together over two days of talks. and their patrol ships shadow ably unlikely that Beijing had It included a one-on-one session each other. changed its fundamental calcu- on June 8 and a stroll outside The United States, a formal lus about North Korea, an old in the desert heat, and a Friday 1010 June 15, 2013 Pinoy graduates from USMA 2 Filipinas graduate from at top of class US Naval Academy WASHINGTON D.C. - The Herrera excelled. He graduated strict and unwavering. To be put WSHINGTON D.C. - Two she joined the Philippine Mili- Philippine Army’s newest lieu- in the top fi ve percent academi- in charge of it signifi es a special Filipinos, one born in the Phil- tary Academy. On her second tenant Floren Herrera graduated cally of his class of over 1200 trust and confi dence. To be a ippines and the other in Oak- year, she took the competetive from the United States Military members. This entitled him to foreign cadet with this position land, California were among this test for the US military service Academy at West Point on Satur- wear stars on his cadet uniform, is unheard of. year’s graduates of the US Naval academies and was one of the day May 25, 2013. a singular and distinct honor Floren Herrera came from a Academy in Annapolis, Mary- three who passed. The others He is the latest in a long line that only a handful of Filipi- humble background in Cagayan. His father passed away when he was two years old, thus leaving his mother to raise a four children with only limited means. Floren is now the primary bread- winner of the family and will work to send his siblings to college. He will spend the fi rst months on duty at the Philippine Military Academy in Baguio, where he was for a year before entering West Point. He will tutor the cadets there before entering training for eventual Floren Herrera, a Filipino who recently graduated from the US Military deployment as a Philippine Academy at West Point, poses with, from left, Senior Supt. Jojo Gentiles, Army leader in the fi eld, most FilAm Christine Layug receives diploma from President Obama during Police Attache’, Consul Emil Fernandez, Thryza Navarrete, Sonny Busa, probably in Mindanao. graduation rites in Annapolis, Maryland. Herrera, and Mrs. Ceres Busa, at the lobby of the Philippine Embassy last When he returns to the Phil- May 29. (MC Cardenas) ippines he will be feted along land. grduated recently from West of Filipinos who were sent by nos before him attained. The with this year’s graduated of the Both had the rare honor of Point and the US Airforce Acad- the Philippine government to enormity of this accomplish- United States Military Academy getting their diplomats from emy in Colorado. West Point to receive the fi nest ment cannot be overstated. He at Annapolis and the Air Force President Barack Obama himself. She proudly reveals that military education in the world. was the smartest of some of the Academy in Colorado Springs. They are Christine Joy Jiao her younger brother Kendrick, To greet them will be former The academic education is not smartest and strongest young Layug of Oakland and Chinna whose passion includes sailing, Philippine President Ramos, a too bad either. Forbes magazine men in the country. In recogni- Louise Eulogio Salio who was is now a sophomore in Annap- graduate of West Point Class of three years ago rated West Point tion of his high standing he was born in the Mountain Province, 1951. Many of the Filipinos who olis and his twin Kenneth is the number one University in promoted to the rank of cadet Philippines. Joining the Navy has attended the academies in the studying aircraft engineering in America, ahead of Harvard and captain and put in charge of a become a generational rite for United States have gone on to Canada. all the others. This year it was regimental honor committee. He many Filipinos. Joy, for instance, serve illustrious careers in either Salio was commissioned as rated the top engineering school was responsible for insuring that has 10 uncles either actively serv- the military, government or pri- an Ensign in the Philippine Navy by US News and World Report. the exceedingly high moral and vate sector. How could they not? ing or retired from the US Navy, by Capt. Elson Aguilar, the con- In such a demanding aca- honor standards were followed. They were considered the best of not counting her father Roy and current Defense and Naval atta- demic and physical environment The West Point honor system is the best of the Philippines. maternal grandfather (now both retired). che’ in Washington DC. Her family was present Salio has since returned Filam captain promoted to during her graduation. to Manila where she received Dslio, the only Filipino to a warm welcome from Navy US Army commander graduate this year, was studying headquarters and her family in to be a nurse in Baguio city at the Baguio city. HONOLULU–Filipino- rifi ced my time with my family and me a better life,” Lindsey Benguet state university before (R. Jaleco) American Captain Susan Bar- and friends. Worked late nights recalls. “By her example, she to the Fifth Battlefi eld Coordina- roga Lindsey has been promoted and early mornings and studied taught me never to give up, to Laoag, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. to company commander of Intel- strive to be the best I could be. She attended Columbia School in tion Detachment, (94th Army Air ligence & Sustainment for the Because of her, I am proud of Sunnyvale and Lynbrook High Missile Defense Command), at US Army 25th Infantry Division my heritage, and I am proud to School in Cupertino, Calif. Joint Pearl Harbor-Hickam Air based in Hawaii. serve the country that made my After completing the Mili- Force Base. Capt. Lindsey will take mother a citizen.” tary Intelligence Offi cer Basic Lindsey comes from a long line of military service members. on the position in a change of Lindsey graduated from Course at Fort Huachuca, Ari- zona, in 2009, Lindsey was Her family’s military history command Ceremony on June San Diego State University at 22, assigned to Fort Bliss, Texas as dates back to the American Rev- 6 at General’s Field, Honolulu, with a bachelor’s degree in com- the Signal Intelligence Platoon olutionary War. She is the only Hawaii. munication and a minor in psy- Leader for the Military Intelli- female in her family’s history to As company commander, chology. Lindsey enrolled in the gence Company of First Brigade, serve in the U.S. military. she will perform administrative, Reserve Offi cer Training Corps in First Armored Division. “To command is an honor accountability and personnel 2006 and served with the 4-16th She was deployed in sup- and a privilege,” she says. I once support to division staff respon- Civil Affairs (USACAPOC)(A) port of Operation Iraqi Free- thought my greatest victory was sible for equipment account- Army Reserve while continuing Capt. Susan Barroga Lindsey dom (2009-2010), stationed at becoming an offi cer, but I was ability, unit discipline, positive her education. She was commis- FOB Warrior, Kirkuk Province, wrong. My greatest victory is command climate, and training hard. i committed to a greater sioned as an Army Offi cer in Iraq. Upon her return, she was seeing my soldiers inspired and soldiers to meet the needs of any 2008 while obtaining a master’s purpose–serving my country assigned as the Assistant Bat- empowered to succeed. The sons mission. in interdisciplinary studies. and my fellow Americans.” talion S2 for the 4-17th Stryker and daughters of America are “I joined the U.S. Army Lindsey was born in Octo- Infantry Battalion. Lindsey the nation’s greatest asset. It is Her mother, Connie, came because I wanted to do some- ber 1983 in Mountain View, attended the Military Intelli- my duty to protect them. They to the U.S. almost 30 years ago. thing more with my life, I Calif., and raised in San Jose. She gence Captains Career Course in are the future of this country. wanted to be someone more,” the “Growing up, I watched her is the daughter of Floyd Dean 2012 at Fort Huachuca, Arizona. And they deserve the best lead- 30-year-old Lindsey states. “It struggle and work hard as a Lindsey of Buckeye, Ariz. and She was assigned as the ers to excel in their life. Watching was no overnight success. I sac- single mother to give my brother Concepcion Barroga Lindsey of Intelligence Operations Offi cer my soldiers inspires me to lead.” June 15, 2013 11 HK Sinos boo, hurl bottles at Azkal players MANILA - Philippine offi - cials last week called as “unfortunate” the anti-Filipino out- bursts from the Hong Kong crowd during a friendly match involving the Azkals and said the crowd’s unruly behavior did not refl ect the feelings of the people in Hong Kong. The Azkals beat Hong Kong, 1-0, on a fi rst-half goal by James Younghusband in the match on June 4 at Hong Kong’s Mong- kok Stadium, where the Philip- pine team was the object of racial abuse. Assistant Secretary Raul Photo shows Manila Mail columnist Jocelyn Porteria who fl ew to Hong Hernandez, spokesman of the Kong to watch the game. Here, she poses with her son (to her left) who plays Department of Foreign Affairs, with Azkal. (See her account of the incident on page 25) said “We are concerned about guilty of racially abusing the Fili- dents reported negative feelings some unfortunate events that pinos. toward the Philippine govern- happened during the friendly Relations between Manila ment and 30 percent negative football match between the Phil- and Hong Kong soured in 2010 feelings toward Filipinos. The ippine Azkals and the Hong after eight Hong Kong tourists study did not explain the reasons Kong team,” Hernandez said in were killed in a bus hostage- for such sentiment. a press briefi ng. taking drama at Quirino Grand- The Japanese government Hong Kong fans threw stand in Manila. The deaths were rated 48 percent on the “dislike” water bottles and other debris at blamed on bungled police rescue index while 28 percent of those the Azkal players and their sup- operations. surveyed felt positive toward the porters, including women and Since then, the Philippines Japanese people. children, after the match. has been on Hong Kong’s travel Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. poses with Maj. Gen. Cesar B. In contrast, Singapore, Some of the Hong Kong fans blacklist. Yano, the Philippine defense attaché in the Philippine embassy Canada and Australia were the also called the Filipinos a “slave A recent survey by a Hong since 2011. He offi cially ended that stint and retired from mili- most liked. nation” and booed when the Kong university has found the tary service – after 34 years, 4 months and 9 days – on his birth- Philippine national anthem was Philippines to be the most dis- There are more than 170,000 day last May 10. The citation for the Philippine Legion of Honor played. liked country by residents in the Filipinos based in Hong Kong, Award extolled his “eminently meritorious and valuable services” The Hong Kong Football former British colony. according to 2011 fi gures of the enhancing diplomatic and security relations with the United States Association has vowed to “ban According to the survey, Commission on Filipinos Over- as well as Canada. supporters of its team found 86 percent of 1,000 respon- seas. 1212 June 15, 2013 Enrile quits, Drilon will be new Senate president MANILA - Embattled Senate “As a matter of personal ing political tides, to muster the elected us into offi ce, is quite a image of the Senate in their President Juan Ponce Enrile has honor and dignity, I hereby irre- support of the majority of your feat in itself,” he stressed. struggle to malign him. fi nally decided to hand it to his vocably resign as Senate Presi- colleagues, and to maintain that “Thus, I owe a deep debt of “Old age may have physi- critics by irrevocably resigning dent,” Enrile said. support long enough to achie e gratitude to my colleagues who, cally impaired my vision. But let from his position at the last day “With the constantly shift- something for the people who at the most crucial hour, man- me assure all of you: I can still see of the Senate session early this aged to rise above selfi sh interest and read clearly the handwriting month, ahead of the start of the and ambition to help me steer on the wall. I need not be told by 16th Congress. the Senate through rough waters anyone when it is time for me to Speculations are rife that in the last four and a half years go,” Enrile stressed. Sen. Franklin Drilon, an admin- that I served as Senate Presi- Drilon has also hinted cer- istration ally, would be elected dent,” Enrile said. tainty of this “change” in the the next Senate President in the Enrile blasted some col- Senate leadership, as he con- next 16th Congress following leagues allegedly behind a hate fi rmed talks between the Nacio- the 9-3 victory of the Team PNoy campaign against him that nalista Party and the Liberal administration senatorial slate in eroded public trust in the cham- Party agreeing to fi eld a single the May 2013 mid-term elections ber and doomed his son Jack’s candidate for the senate presi- over the opposition coalition or senatorial bid. dency in the next Congress. the United Nationalist Alliance He singled out Senate Drilon also recently dis- (UNA). minority leader Alan Peter Cay- closed Enrile has made the In an emotional privilege etano and Sen. Miriam Defensor- assurance that the UNA coali- speech, Enrile made it clear that Santiago whom he did not name tion in the Senate will become a his resignation is a “matter of in his speech as the detractors “constructive opposition” in the Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile delivers privilege speech to announce personal honor and dignity.” who succeeded in eroding the upcoming Congress. his irrevocable resignation. OAVs need not swear Plane overshoots runway, to return home to PH passengers sue airline DAVAO CITY - Civil Avia- due to its crew’s failure to “take MANILA - Overseas Absen- regarded by Filipino migrant pre-departure orientation semi- tion investigators are looking care of the passengers” after the tee Voters (OAVs) are no longer groups as the biggest stumbling nars to support the overseas into why Cebu Pacific flight 971 emergency landing. required to swear under oath block to registering the broad- voter registration and voting skidded off the runway upon that they would return to the est number of qualified Filipino processes. But in an interview on Tues- landing at Banggoy Int’l Airport country within three years before overseas voters,” the Comelec Under the amended law, they could be allowed to cast bal- said. overseas voters would be able lots in Philippine elections, the The election body said the to cast their votes for all national Commission on Elections has requirement was dropped after referendums and plebiscites announced. President Benigno Aquino on aside In a statement, the Come- May 27 signed Republic Act from the presidential, vice lec said the legal requirement No. 10590, which amended the presidential, senatorial and that overseas Filipinos execute absentee voting law. party-list elections. an “affidavit of intent to return” Data from the Philippine The law also calls for the before they are allowed to cast Overseas Employment Adminis- creation of an Office for Over- their votes for candidates in the tration showed that the number seas Voting under the Comelec Philippines has been dropped of Filipino permanent residents whose job it would be specifi- from the overseas absentee abroad had reached 4,056,940 as cally to oversee and supervise voting law. of 2009. the effective implementation of “The requirement was RA 10590 would utilize the the Overseas Voting Act.

Cebu Pacifi c plane accident caused closure of Davao city International Air- Aquino inks tough gun law port for two days. MANILA - President a Filipino citizen at least 21 years rized gun club; on a rainy evening June 2. day, Cebu Pacific spokesperson Benigno Aquino III signed late old to apply for a gun license. - filing in writing the appli- No passengers were hurt in Candice Iyog said ‘The pilot and last month the comprehensive An applicant must also have cation to possess a registered the accident by they are accus- our crew followed procedure law regulating the ownership of full work occupation or business firearm, indicating the personal ing the flight crew of not letting and they assessed the situation firearms and ammunition. or has filed an income tax return circumstances why he or she them out of the plane through outside. Nakita naman nila na Republic Act 10591 lists for the preceding year as proof of needs to own a firearm; emergency chutes. wala namang imminent danger. down the standards and prereq- income, profession, business or - a police clearance to prove Aside from an investigation Hindi naman nasusunog ‘yung uisites for a license to own and occupation. from the Civil Aviation Author- engine natin. Hindi isinagawa possess a firearm, deputy presi- “The applicant has not been the applicant was not convicted ity of the Philippines following or accused in a pending criminal yung emergency evacuation dential spokesperson Abigail convicted of any crime involv- the erratic landing and ground- Valte said. ing moral turpitude, has passed case punishable with a penalty of dahil hindi naman siya kailan- ing of its plane, Cebu Pacific may gan.” “The new law also requires the psychiatric test administered more than two years; and face a new problem: a class suit. Meanwhile, CAAP is inves- gun owners to renew their by a Philippine National Police- - reasonable gun licensing Passengers decided to take tigating the incident, even as licenses every two years on or accredited psychologist or psy- fees. legal action against the airline director general William Hotch- before the date of expiration. If chiatrist,” it said. Those who want to carry a despite the apology of the airline they fail to renew their licenses, An applicant must also pass kiss III said the plane’s pilot and firearm outside their residence for the mishap. first officer, along with the cabin the PNP will revoke them and a drug test by an accredited and Passengers met June 4 and or place of business may apply crew, will undergo physical this also entails confiscation of authorized drug testing labora- decided to go ahead with legal for a Permit To Carry (PTC) if he checkups. the firearm,” a Presidential Com- tory or clinic. action against the airline. or she “is under actual threat or munications and Operations Other requirements include: The class suit comes after Hotckiss also said the is in imminent danger due to the Office (PCOO) article quoted - passing the gun safety Ateneo de Davao University grounded plane, including the Valte as saying. seminar administered by the nature of his or her profession, called for a boycott of the airline flight data and cockpit voice Under the law, one must be PNP or a registered or autho- occupation or business.” recorders, will be inspected. June 15, 2013 13 1414 June 15, 2013 First Five 2013-2014 Highbridge Scholars named Five outstanding students, Maryland Dream Act. Erica’s number one rank in her senior of the Lady Gems Dance Team, was sent to live with relatives selected on the basis of their parents did not attend college, class. She managed two sports the dance ensemble for the in the U.S. in 2010. In that short academic achievement, commu- so she deeply appreciates what teams for her school and was Eastern High School Marching time, he has successfully and nity service, leadership poten- independently navigated his tial, and demonstrated hardship way through American culture which included fi nancial need and maintained an unshakeable and adverse personal or family positive outlook in life. Vong circumstances, will receive the will attend The University of fi rst High Bridge Foundation, Texas at Austin, where he will Inc. scholarships at an awards major in Accounting. brunch on Saturday, June 15 at The scholarship program is 10:00 in the morning at the Pei- a project of High Bridge Founda- koff Alumni House (“Ole Jim”) tion, Inc., a non-profi t organiza- at the Gallaudet University a college education would mean active in the drama club. Earica Band. She served as a mentor tion established by Ernest and Campus in Washington, D.C. to her and her family. She will is part of The Washington Post’s for the DC Campaign Teenage Mencie Hairston last year. Dr. The awards provide $1,000 attend the University of Mary- Press Pass Mentors Program, Pregnancy and Prevention Pro- and Mrs. Hairston are life-long in scholarship funds for each land at College Park, where she which pairs professional journal- gram and as a youth leader for supporters of programs that ben- recipient to help pay for college the Mayor’s Leadership Insti- will study international affairs ists with inner-city high school efi t underserved populations of tuition and expenses. Accord- and history. students to kindle a passion for tute. Mercedes used her life’s young people especially those ing to President Mayumi Arnasha Jones graduated writing and help them succeed adversities as a jumping board with disabilities and life chal- Escalante, the Foundation from McKinley Technical High in college. While her mother for her success. She will attend lenges, and who are in need of received more than 130 applica- School in Washington, DC, was unable to help take care North Carolina Agricultural fi nancial help to pursue higher tions for these fi ve scholarship where she was ranked number of their family, and after her and Technical State University, education. awards. The volunteers on the one among her peers, while tack- father’s death due to congestive where she plans to major in engi- As recipients of scholar- Scholarship Selection Commit- ling advanced placement courses heart failure, Earica kept her neering. tee have been impressed and in Language Arts, Literature, family together and made sure Vong Truong graduated ships during their student days, overwhelmed by the caliber and Calculus, and Engineering. She that her younger siblings were from Northwest High School in Dr. and Mrs. Hairston believe volume of applications received volunteers for the DC Food Bank well cared for. She will attend Germantown, MD with a cumu- that scholarships are a donor’s during the Foundation’s fi rst and tutors students at McKin- Syracuse University’s S.I. New- lative weighted GPA of 4.17 and fi nancial investment in a stu- year. ley High School. Throughout house School of Public Commu- earned distinctions in Physics dent’s potential to succeed, to Erica Fuentes graduated high school, Arnasha worked nications to pursue her dream and Mathematics. He led the give back to the community, from Albert Einstein High part-time to help with family of becoming a newspaper and school’s team to a fi rst place and to embody the donor’s core School in Kensington, MD with expenses. Arnasha will be the online journalist. fi nish during the 20th Annual values. It is also an investment a weighted GPA of 4.50, placing fi rst in her family to attend col- Mercedes Young is a gradu- Central Maryland Physics Olym- in the student’s family and in his her in the top 5 percent of her lege. She will attend North Car- ate of McKinley Technology pics. Vong has logged more or her community. More impor- class. She was named an “AP olina State University and will High School in Washington, than 200 community service tantly, scholarships come with a Scholar with Distinction” by the major in Economics. D.C., where she was a consistent hours volunteering as a tutor at moral mandate, as they impact College Board. All these, while Earica Parrish is a graduate member of the school’s honor the George B. Thomas Learn- not only the recipients’ educa- immersing herself in commu- from Thurgood Marshall Acad- roll and National Honor Soci- ing Academy and as a teacher tion, but also the way they con- nity service that included tutor- emy Public Charter High School ety. Her hard work and dedica- at the Hoai Huong Vietnamese duct their lives after graduation, ing and mentoring immigrant in Washington, DC, where she tion earned her the coveted posi- School. Vong was raised by a and the way they practice their students and advocating for the earned a 4.25 GPA and the tion of captain and lead dancer single mother in Vietnam and professions. Centina is 1st Fil-Afro-American Ms Teen PH By Grace Valera she did Beyonce’s “Crazy in love Grandfather Aurelio “Popoy” “ dance number as her talent. Centina, who brought her back After 28 years, a Filipino- The 2012 Miss Teen Phil- to the U.S. only last year prior to African-American won for the ippines-America Iana Kozeslky his demise. turned over her crown to Chas- It was such a touching , fi rst time the title of Miss Teen tity Centina. tearful reunion for Chastity and Philippines America. She is Except for the question and her Dad, who found her only Chastity Centina, 18, a 5’6” multi- answer portion, Chastity consis- through facebook! And for talented tri-lingual young lady tently topped the Judges scores Chastity, her every dream was who speaks Tagalog, Visayan making her win the title. happening right before her eyes and English. She impressed the It was also a great emotional that night.

Christian Noel Asinero graduated Summa Cum Laude from George Mason University last May 18. Christian earned a degree in Physical Therapy and is planning for a PhD in the same fi eld. He is the son of Noel and Kaye Asinero of Manassas, Virginia. 10 yrs old. Shyanne Carr, also of mixed Filipino African-Ameri- can parents, was given the title Miss Teen Philippines Maharlika for her sweet yet exotic royalty princess like beauty. The tallest of them all, Velarie Velasquez Ms Teen Philippines-America Chas- captured the Judges’ attention tity Centina poses with her grandma Miss Teen Philippines-America Chastity Centina (center) poses with run- through her photos and was Nancy Dizon Korionoff (right) and ner-ups. awarded Miss Teen Philippines aunt Melanie Centina at the Fair- moment for Chastity because Other candidates were Photogenic and the title of Miss view Marriott on May 26, 2013. that night for the fi rst time she First Runner-up and Miss Teen Teen Philippines-Visayas. Miss Teen Philippines-Luzon title Judges with her witty answers met her Dad, Chris Barnes, who Philippines-Washington D.C. Erika Capinguian is a graduat- resides in North Carolina. Hannah Cristine Delgado, 15. went to Miss Nina Bonita Lapa. ing senior from Albert Einstein during the Interview segment Having been borne to teen- Her fellow candidates voted her Katherine Barnachea got the title High School and the valedic- held the day before, captivated age parents, her Dad only saw as Miss Teen Congeniality spe- Miss Teen Philippines-Mindanao torian of her class. She lives everyone with her well poised and held her briefl y when she cial award. Hannah is of Peru- and garnered two other special in Silver Spring, MD. with her and graceful cobra-walk at the was born. At the age of 3, she was vian-American and Filipino par- awards of Miss Teen Popularity parents, Rey and Estrella Cap- evening gown portion and made brought home to the Philippines entage but she lost her father to and Miss Teen Charity. inguian. everybody glued to their seats as and was taken care of by her lung cancer when she was only June 15, 2013 15

2013. Contact: Leonora Mendoza Profit Compliance and Common [email protected] at 571-723-8273. Tax Topics, Acacia Federal Aug 24 Occoquan Regional June 15 (Saturday) 7:30pm Savings Bank, 7600 Leesburg Park, Lorton, VA. Contact: Nelle Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette Pike, East Bldg. Suite 200, Falls Gavino [email protected] Catholic Church, 7600 Old Church, VA 22043. Seminar Fee August 17 (Saturday) Keene Mill Road, Springfield, with lunch: $12. Contact: Edgar 7:30pm Filipino Mass at St. Ber- VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino Aznar 703-837-3587 nadette Catholic Church, 7600 Ministry of St. Bernadette. Con- June 30 (Sunday) PAFC Old Keene Mill Road, Spring- tact 703-569-1054. Philippine Festival’s Commu- field, VA 22152. Sponsored by June 15 (Saturday) 7:00am nity Picnic and Sports Fest. Fun Filipino Ministry of St. Berna- PAMWE-FtH Joint Benefit Golf and food, games for children dette. Contact 703-569-1054. Tournament. and sports for grown-ups plus October 5 (Saturday) 8 If you would like to include premier seats $110. Contact: Algonkian Regional Park a cultural show and a band pm-2 am. Ateneo Alumni Asso- your organization’s forthcoming Nanette Carreon at NSuyat1681@ Golf Course, 47001 Fairway marathon pull the community ciation of Metro Washington DC event, please send the information to aol.com. Drive, Sterling, VA 20165. together. Special Feature: Parada “Charity Gala Dinner-Dance and [email protected] June 15 (Saturday) 10:00 7:00am Registration & Continen- ng Lechon, Tucker Road Recre- Auction.” Crystal Gateway Mar- June 15 (Saturday) 6:00pm- am-11:00am PNA of Metro DC tal Breakfast; 8:30am Tee Time ational Park, Fort Washington, riott Grand Ballroom, 1700 Jef- 12:00pm. Philippine Indepen- Memorial Mass. Embassy of the or Shotgun. Contact: Pepito Solis MD Contact: Mya Talavera at ferson Davis HighwayArlington, dence Gala Ball. JW Marriott Philippines, Romulo Hall, 1600 703)979-0838 or.p2solis@gmail. [email protected]. VA 22202. Contact: Aimee San July 20 (Saturday) 7:30pm Washington, DC. Continues the Massachusetts Avenue N.W., com Ramon at [email protected] Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette tradition of celebrating Inde- Washington, D.C. for the victims June 22 (Saturday) 10:00 October 19 (Saturday) 6pm- Catholic Church, 7600 Old pendence Day with Philippine who died in the San Mateo-Hay- am - 2:00 pm FAIA Seminar: IRS 12mn Bicol Association of Met- Keene Mill Road, Springfield, Embassy dignitaries, the FilAm ward Bridge Limousine fire in Audits of Social Media, Health ropolitan Washington DC“30th VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino community, special guests. $85; Foster City, California on May 4, Care for Small Business, Non- Sarung Banggi Gala Fundrais- Ministry of St. Bernadette. Con- ing.” Bethesda Ballroom, 5521 tact 703-569-1054.. Landy Lane, Bethesda, Mary- August 3, 2013 (Saturday) land 20816. Attire Formal. For all 9:00am to 8:00pm ... Marin- the charitable causes including duquenos of the Capital Area, Inc. “MCA, Inc. Annual Family scholarships and the Surgical Picnic” at Black Hill Regional Mission.$65 pre-paid; $70 at the Park - Shelter “C”, 20926 Lake door. Ridge Drive, Boyds, MD 20841. Nov 9 (Saturday) 6:00- “POT LUCK”, come one - come 12:00pm Feed the Hungry, Inc. all - bring “your favorite food” Handog 2013 at Hilton Markham to share. Contact: Xavier Cugie Center, Alexandria, VA. Contact Dela Santa 301-728-1684. Person: Solita Wakefield (703) August 3 & 24 (Saturday) 992-4610 or swakefield09@gmail. 8:00am ANCOP Walk to raise com funds and awareness for the Nov 16 (Saturday) 2pm – poorest of the poor in the Phil- 5pm PAFC “Dr. Jose Rizal Youth ippines. Online registration via Awards” Romulo Hall, Philip- www.ancopwalk.us; walker can pine Embassy, Washington, DC. pick the walk location to register Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 for $15 which includes a t-shirt to 5660. be given at the walk site Dec 1 (Sunday) PAFC, Phil- Aug 3 Henson Valley Creek ippine Embassy and FOCUS, Park, Tucker Road,Fort Wash- “Paskong Pinoy.” Pryzbyla Hall, ington, MD Contact: Cres Reyes Catholic University of America. FilAm judge gets award HARTFORD, Connecticut - such as U.S. District Judge Alvin A Filipino American judge here W. Thompson, former State recently received the prestigious Supreme Court Justice Lubbie Edwin Archer Randolph Diver- sity Award, named after a Yale Law School graduate who in 1880 became Connecticut’s fi rst lawyer of color, by the Law- yers Collaborative for Diversity (LCD). Judge Nina F. Elgo, a fi rst generation Filipino-American raised in Norwich, Connecticutt, was chosen as the 2013 recipient for her accomplishments and contributions dedicated to the inclusion and advancement of lawyers of colors and/or women lawyers within Connecticut and Judge Nina F. Elgo surrounding legal communities. Elgo became Connecticut’s Harper Jr., Xerox Corp. general fi rst Asian Pacifi c American counsel Don Liu, and Senior judge in 2004. Assistant State’s Attorney Toni She initially handled crimi- Smith-Rosario. nal cases, though she’s currently A graduate of Connecticut assigned to the civil docket in College in New London and New Haven Superior Court. Georgetown University of Law, She received the award on Elgo served 14 years working in May 9 at a ceremony held at the as an assistant attorney general Wadsworth Atheneum here. representing the state in child She joins a very distin- abuse and neglect cases, and guished list of past recipients other cases involving children. 1616 Around DC June 15, 2013 Winners in FABA golf tournament The Filipino American Basketball Association (FABA), held their annual Golf Tournamet at the Virginia Oaks club last June 1. Team Pinoy Hackers won the Team Championship.

The Mother Butler Guild hosted a luncheon reception at St. Anne’s Church community hall for newly-ordained priest Fr. Dennis Gonzales (center, left), shown with St. Anne pastor Monsignor Godfrey Mosley. Now based in Florida, Fr. Dennis recently celebrated mass at the church in D.C. Some 150 Filipino Americans from D.C., Maryland and Virginia and St. Anne parishioners attended the mass, as well as the reception.

Members are Guy Suarez, Jun Suarez and Domeng Alvarado. Photo shows, from left, Merwynn Pagdanganan, Guy Suarez, Jun Suarez, Ken Mendoza, Domeng Alvarado, Bo Asinero, Allan Sunga and Dennis Tabligan.

Friends and members of the University of Santo Tomas Alumni Association in America (USTAAA) gather May 19, 2013 at the picturesque Bohrer Park in Gaithersburg, Maryland for USTAAA’s annual picnic. All who graduated Among the distaff side are, from left,; Beth Mendoza, Maddie or studied at the more than 400-year-old University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines are encouraged to join Pagdanganan, Michelle Sunga and Kaye Asinero. USTAAA. Please email [email protected] for more information. ( Angelyn Tugado-Marzan) Team Runner up is Team Reyes (QinetiQ) with Roger Reyes, Brett Pfrommer, Brandon S., and Mark Ropper. Individual Awards: Putting Challenge Winner: Jun Arzadon; Chipping Challenge Winner: Phil Nguyen; Closest to the Pin: Nel Espos and Longest Drive: Jun Suarez Reading of ‘The Mango Bride’ The reading and reception of “The Mango Drive” with author Marivi Soliven, grand prize winner of the 2011 Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy on June 27, 2013. The event is free and open to the public, but please RSVP L to R: Amy Hever, Smithsonian Asian Paciﬁ c American Center, Bobby Federigan, Gina Inocencio, Smithsonian to [email protected]. Asian Paciﬁ c American Center, and Gloria Federigan, at the VIP reception for Fighting For Democracy, Who Is The Marivi Soliven has taught writ- “We” in We the People”? Performances was held last June 6, at the National Museum of American History. Photo: ing workshops at UC San Diego Bing Cardenas Branigin and at the University of the Phil- Marivi Soliven ippines. The Migrant Heritage Commis- sion (MHC) actively participated in the 8th Fiesta Asia in Washington D.C. on May 18. Photo shows par- ticipants carrying the MHC banner while marching along a street in Washington DC. Other MHC members at the parade include Little Mr. and Miss Migrant Heritage prince and princesses, teenage brain- and-beauty queens, the interactive Franklin Odo, former director of the Tinikling dance, delectable food, Smithsonian Asian Center, and Bing cooking demonstrations by Mama Branigin, member Board of Gov- Sita, an array of Filipino tradi- ernor of NaFFAA, at the presenta- tional fashion, as well as Atiatihan tion and reception for the Fighting and Igorot tribal dances. The event for Democracy, Who is the “We” In was sponsored by the Asia Heritage the “We the People “?, held at the Foundation. national Museum of American His- tory on June 6. June 15, 2013 17 Katipunan’s 31st Philippine Festival celebrates the integration of Filipino heritage into the American life. All text/photos by Angelyn Tugado-Marzan Young Fil-Am ladies and their non-Filipino friends grace- fully perform their stylized modern version of “Subli,” a ritual dance popular in Bauan, Batangas.

Current Katipunan President Luis Florendo (foreground) poses with students belonging to the Filipino Cultural As- sociation at Towson after they wowed the audience with their Filipino American Ken Mamaril (2nd from left holding the May 31st issue of the Manila creative rendition (using con- Mail) tour his Howard County Martial Arts Club colleagues (l-r) James Jimmy, Shameel temporary music) of Philippine Siddiqui, and Jessie Wexler at the Maryland State Fairgrounds located at 2200 York Road, folk dances, including Sakut- Lutherville-Timonium, Maryland, site of the 31st Philippine Festival of Katipunan (the ing, Subli, Maglalatik, Singkil, Filipino-American Association of Maryland, Inc.) where they relished pancit, puto, kal- La Jota, Pandanggo sa Ilaw, dereta & barbecue! and Bangko. Dancers include (l-r) Lucy Lu, Ellen Mcintire- The “NEROJOC” Band, composed Severson, Tami Yato, Diana Ly, of the Cornejo cousins ((l-r) Henry, Vy Vy Vu, Jackie Piarsay, Anica Jonathan, Gerard, Patrick Cornejo- Avancero, Czerina Andaya, Reinheimer, Michael and Justin) from Mike Keenan, Dion Tilotta; Gaithersburg and Germantown in (back row) Tamar Smith, Kris Maryland enliven the outdoor crowd Jones. with their “progressive, nu-metal rock” music. Past Katipunan president Helen Sadorra (right) welcomes In “barong” attire, former Katipunan (front, l-r) Mila Inserto, Elvie presidents Gerry Florendo and his Milan, Daisy Tucay, RN and wife Sony Robles Florendo, author (back) Eric Lachica, earnest of best-selling cookbook “Signature supporters of the campaign “to Dishes of the Philippines,” join convince the U.S. president and Katipunan Vice-President Dr. Bing Congress to allow Medicare Slodzinski in welcoming guests at the to pay top Philippine hospitals festival which was held indoors for for our seniors’ health care WKHYHU\¿UVWWLPH when they visit or reside in the Philippines.” Those wishing to support the said campaign 5HÀHFWLYHRIIHVWLYDOVLQ3KLOLSSLQH need to go to www.US Medicare provinces that express religious fer- PH.org. vor, a statue St. Jude (the patron saint Amidst resplendent “barong” of lost causes) is on display at the blouses for sale at the Migrant Katipunan festival, much to the joyful Heritage Commission (MHC) delight of Filipinos & Fil-Ams (l-r) booth are Jesse Gatchalian Sonny Domingo, Rey Southernland, (left) and Carl Abella (right) Nita Villanueva, Ermi Lacanienta, with smiling ladies in gorgeous Polly Puno, Leony Dunne, Cellie hats (l-r) Ednora, Cynthia Fer- Southernland, and Grace Valera. rel, Carrie Macanas, Annie Di- maano, Marissa Hoes, Marietta Worm, Jeanette Abella.

Katipunan President Luis Flo- rendo (standing, 3rd from right, in crisp “barong”) poses at the Knights of Columbus Sto. Nino Council 9462 booth with volunteers from 23 organizations who helped put up the said festival.

Former Katipunan president Gerry Florendo, with a glass of refreshing “halo-halo” toasts Much too popular at the festival to the success of the Philippine Festival of the 44-year-old Katipunan Filipino-American was the sumptuous Philippine Association of Maryland, one of the oldest Filipino American organizations in the metro barbecue sold by John and Washington, DC area. Florendo believes Katipunan is now infused with the able leadership Merly Eda (front, right), owners RI³\RXQJEORRG´LQFOXGLQJWKRVHRI-RH$GLD.DWLSXQDQ¶V352 ÀDQNHGE\0DUN$GLD of North Star Cafe & Grill at (left) and Florendo) and well, his son, Luis, who told the Manila Mail that “young Filipino 9201 Livingston Road in Fort Americans who search for their roots are capable of integrating their Filipino heritage in Washington, Maryland. their present American life.” 18 June 15, 2013 June 15, 2013 19 2020 June 15, 2013 The vitality, diversity of Brown Strokes It was Brown Strokes on a White Canvasâ ™ (BSWC) elev- enth year of exhibition. Began in 2002, the BSWC program of the Philippine American Foundation for Charities (PAFC), has seen emerging artists bloom, established artists grow and exceed their potential. This year’s crop of artists provided their current explo- rations -- showing the vitality and diversity of their pieces. Thirty-four artists easeled their work at the Philippine Embas- sy’s Romulo Hall with close to 100 guests. Of the 8 artists that Judge David Valderrama and Gaby Riego de Dios stop to ponder over Jon Manila Mail columnist Jonathan Melegrito shows one of his paintings. exhibited in 2002, 7 artists were Melegrito’s painting of a mermaid and a fi sh. represented this year, lending in partnership with the Philip- patrick , Josie Lim Cruz, Orlando some historical perspective to pine Embassy. David Valder- Lagman, Pacifi co Lopez, Joey the show. rama was special guest and Manalapaz, Ronna Manansala, Consul General Ariel thanked Julian Oteyza, curator Gloria Federigan,Jon Melegrito, Penaranda addressed the audi- of the show for bringing the art- Christine Oteyza, Julian Oteyza, ence on opening day late last ists together in one exhibit and Kevin Owens, Michelle Martin, month by telling them to take having the community enjoy the Linda Pirrone, Amy Quinto, the note that this exhibit was in cel- works of art. late Frank Redondo, Miriam ebration of Asian Pacifi c Ameri- Participating Artists were: Riedmiller, Grabriel Riego de can month that ended May 31 Pacita Abad, Ken Abrams, Dios, Virgilio Rollamas, Nilo as well as a commemoration of Adam Williams, Cynthia Ange- Santiago, Alice Santos, Marvin the 115th anniversary of Philip- les, Avelina Bustamante, Nina Santos, Gabriel Stopak, Mya pine Independence. He thanked The artists in Brown Strokes pose together at the opening of the exhibit at the Case, Dulce Dee, Andrea Doug- Talavera ,Toni Tiu,and Michael PAFC for sponsoring the exhibit Romulo Hall of the Philippine embassy. las, Gel Jamilang , Cecile Kirk- Young. (M. Owens) Pinoys around world mark 115th Independence anniversary Filipinos around the world ever eased the abrupt change marked the 115th anniversary by declaring July 4th Philippine of Philippine Independence as American Friendship Day. proclaimed by Gen. Emilio Agu- Aquino called on Filipinos inaldo in Kawit, Cavite on June to display the Philippine fl ag at 12, 1898 with parades, cultural their respective home, offi ces, shows, fl ag displays, gala balls schools, public buildings and and other forms of celebration.. plazas, as well as embassies In the Philippines, Presi- and consulates overseas begin- dent Benigno S. Aquino III led ning May 28, in celebration of the nation with a fl ag -raising National Flag Day, until June 12. ceremony at Liwasang Bonifacio In Washington D.C., Ambas- in front of the Philippine Offi ce sador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. hosted building in Manila. a reception at the Hay Adams Not many Filipinos know hotel while the Philippine Amer- that June 12 was the day when ican Foundation for Charities Filipino Revolutionary Gen. Filipino waves fl ag in front of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s house in Kawit, (PAFC) and Migrant Heritage Emilio Aguinaldo and his group Cavite. Group forms the Philippine fl ag in the New York parade. Commission (MHC) staged their proclaimed the independence of respective balls in local hotels on the Philippines after he defeated, even after the United States for- June 15 and June 22, respectively. with the help of the US, the mally restored Philippine inde- A large celebration of Fili- Spanish forces that occupied the pendence in 1946 after its libera- country for almost 400 years. pino independence was held in tion from Japanese occupation. That independence, how- New York on June 2. This will After the formal turnover, ever, was short-lived because the be followed by celebrations at the Philippines continued to cel- United States took over control New Jersey, Union Square in San ebrate July 4th as independence of the Philippines after the Span- Francisco California on June 15, iards ceded the country to the US day. But in 1964, President Dios- in Chicago and other cities. under the Treaty of Paris for $20 dado Macapagal, the father of The DC celebration actually million. former President Gloria Maca- started late in May following the Since then, the American pagal Arroyo, changed the date opening the 12th annual Brown occupation made July 4 the date to June 12 in a moment of pique Strokes on a White Canvas art The ‘ati-atihans’ march in New York during the June 2 Independence Day for the celebration of indepen- with the US. His successor, Pres- exhibition at the Romulo Center parade. dence. The date was observed ident Ferdinand Marcos, how- of the Philippine embassy. June 15, 2013 21 Charice says: Yes... from page 1 larly her fans, would accept her second season. sexual preference. Charice was at a loss for In a message to fans on You- words when majority of the mes- Tube, she thanked those who sages that she got on the micro- support her. “I just wanna say blogging site Twitter were posi- thank you personally to all my tive. fans, to all the people who are Charice said she is extremely still supporting me, who are still happy to have earned the respect there for me,” she said. “And of a lot of people because of her honestly I am very, very happy. courageous move to come out. I can’t even explain how happy Among the local celebrities I am right now hearing all the who lauded Charice for coming positive things.” out were Tony Award winner The 21-year-old, who was Lea Salonga, award-winning TV producer Michael Carandang, previously called “The Most Pulitzer-winning journalist Jose Talented Girl in the World” by Antonio Vargas and well-known Oprah Winfrey, rose to fame as international blogger Perez a YouTube sensation. She joined Hilton. the cast of “Glee” as Sunshine Charice said she felt that she Corazon during the show’s could be gay since of age of fi ve. When she turned 18, she said she was already sure about her sexual preference and told her mother about this. While her mother said “okay lang,” her reaction were like a rollercoaster because she was not used to it. Charice said she expects that it will be years before her mother will fully learn to accept er. Apart from telling her mom, Charice shared that cutting her hair was one of the fi rst steps she took toward freedom. According to Charice, she was also touched when international composer David Foster did not turn his back on her when she told him about her sexual orientation. He even said “we are proud of you.” Charice said she will always have respect for Foster, who is also her godparent. The interview by The Buzz: “This is a diffi cult question to ask,” begins host Boy Abunda via a Huffi ngton Post translation of the interview. “I don’t know how to phrase this. Only because I believe you don’t owe anybody an explanation. I believe that talent has nothing to do with sexual orientation and gender identity. But it needs to be asked, so I’m going to ask it. Put simply, Charice, are you a lesbian?” “I have a chance to do all of this internationally,” she responded. “[...] But I chose this place because I have a deep sense of gratitude to the Filipinos. Because I felt that I wanted it to be them, for them to learn what I am and who I am. Yes, I am a [lesbian]. The pop star goes on to say “utang na loob,” an expression that can be interpreted as an apology. “Yes I’m a lesbian,” Charice added. “I don’t see a problem with that, because for me there isn’t a problem. Now, I would like to ask for forgiveness from the people that don’t understand.” The revelation comes after much speculation surrounding the singer’s sexuality. 2222 June 15, 2013 from page 1 Transportation. ‘Kabang,’ gets hero’s... The Facebook announce- Philippine Airlines fl ight PR-105 next day. But the problem is how ment clarifi ed that Kabang will from San Francisco, California, her owners, the Rudy Bungals, remain with her owner and that members of the media treated can provide for her upkeep. the dog has not been adopted by her as a returning rock star. Lim thanked donors from Lim. They fl ocked to “Kabang” 45 countries who helped fund “[Lim] will be there for her as soon as she was cleared by Kabang’s treatment at the Uni- and Rudy for the rest of her life. quarantine personnel and let versity of California (UC), Davis, For those of you not in the Phil- out of her cage at the arrival sec- with $27,000 in donations raised ippines, understand that Kabang tion. The dog appeared initially in the Philippines and abroad. is a major celebrity there and she startled by the pop and fl ash of “What we want is to make will, undoubtedly, go on a VIP cameras but became friendly and her an ambassador of dog good tour of the country to support playful as Lim and the reporters will, and to promote responsible education on proper animal care soothed her. pet ownership,” said Lim. and animal rights. Many passengers and air- “It is very fulfi lling that at The problem is that Kabang port employees who were in least our hope in humanity is Mrs. Bungal holds daughter of Mr. Bungal worries Kabang will not is coming home to a broken restored,” he said, adding that family. the area cheered and applauded Kabang as she waits for arrival of recognize him. Kabang has become a symbol of Rodolfo “Rudy” Bunggal, while others were teary-eyed as her ‘hero dog.’ falo, New York, spearheaded a “unconditional love” shown by a now lives alone after his wife Kabang passed by them. They Medical Teaching Hospital in fund-raising campaign to bring human being toward his or her Christina left him because of also took snapshots of the dog UC-Davis to undergo surgery to Kabang to the US because Philip- pet. his heavy drinking. “I am rent- using their cell phone and table close her wound. pine veterinaries could not treat Although Kabang will be ing a small room for P700 (about cameras. UC-Davis veterinary profes- her. spending time with her owners, $19) a month because she could Some even posed with the sor Frank Verstraete said doctors True to her celebrity status, Lim said the dog, as soon as she no longer take Rudy’s behavior at the hospital performed sur- Kabang also had sponsors and is dog for a souvenir shot. is settled down, would embark every time he’s drunk,” she said. gery to heal her wounds but they expected to do endorsements. “She’s as normal as she can on a mission. Christina lives with her could not reconstruct Kabang’s According to the Facebook be. She doesn’t need any special “She’s a hero not just in daughter Dina, 12, and three page “Care for Kabang,” the UC- medication. So aside from the the Philippines but all over the jaw or snout. other relatives. She also takes Davis medical team sent Kabang aesthetic, she’s normal,” Lim world. So what we’re planning Doctors had to fi rst treat her care of Kabang’s offspring, JR. said when asked how Kabang is to make her an ambassador of for other ailments, including a home with a year’s supply of Rudy Bunggal has found work was faring, even with her snout ‘dog-will’ and promote responsi- tumor and heartworm, to ensure heartworm, fl ea and tick preven- as a construction worker but is and upper jaw missing. ble pet ownership,” Lim added. her wounds would heal. They tion medicine courtesy of Pfi zer. dealing with what his neighbors The dog was present at a Kabang’s snout and upper took skin from her cheeks, neck Pet food manufacturer Pedigree and his wife said is a drinking press conference held by local jaw were sheared off in Decem- and forehead to cover up sen- will also give a lifetime supply of problem. He worries about being members of Team Kabang, com- ber 2011 when she jumped into sitive areas that were exposed food to Kabang. The Philippine recognized by Kabang. posed of the Animal Welfare the path of a motorcycle, stop- on her face during surgery in Airlines Foundation also shoul- ‘It’s good to be working Coalition and other groups that ping it from running over Bun- March, Verstraete said. dered the dog’s plane fare. than staying in the street, wait- helped raise funds for the dog’s gals daughter and niece in Zam- Kabang won widespread Other companies in the ing for someone’s motorcycle operations, later in the morning. boanga city. sympathy because of her injuries US that helped Kabang were wheel to get busted,’ the former Kabang later returned to her She was later fl own to Wil- from what has been described as Hertz Rental Car, Hallmark Inn vulcanizing shop worker told owners in Zamboanga City the liam R. Pritchard Veterinary a heroic act. A nurse from Buf- of Davis and O’Brien Animal GMA-TV news. they resettled in the U.S. AsianAms pressing for... from page 1 “When the Cambodian terms on those seeking to gain unity provisions. Killing Field era began, my dad legal status. Attempts to restore that and uncle escaped to Thailand In his remarks at the White provision in the Border Secu- and migrated to the U.S.,” said House on the same day, Obama rity, Economic Opportunity and Randy. “They eventually spon- pressed Congress to pass the Immigration Modernization Act sored my Uncle Sean and with reform bill. He said, “Yes, they during the committee hearings their help he was able to settle broke the rules; they didn’t wait have failed. and become a hardworking citi- their turn. They shouldn’t be This prompted several zen. However, when Uncle Sean let off easy. They shouldn’t be Asian American and Pacifi c tried to sponsor their remain- allowed to game the system. But Islander (AAPI) families from ing siblings, they never made it. at the same time, the vast major- 20 states to hold a new demon- This was after 20 years of wasted ity of these individuals aren’t stration on the East Lawn of the money, endless run around and L to R: Paulo Pontemayor, Civil relations, External Affairs, APIA Health looking for any trouble. Capitol calling on Congress to no answer.” On earlier legisla- Forum, Jian Zapata, Congressional Staff, Ben de Guzman, Executive Direc- They’re just looking to provide pass immigration reform legislative visits, Randy told legisla- tor, LGBT, and Naoi Tacuyan Underwood, Asian American Justice Center, for their families, contribute to tion that is as inclusive of many tors that siblings are an integral Reuniting Families Campaign, at the CIR-Family reunifi cation rally orga- their communities. “ families as possible. part of the American family and nized by the Asian American and Pacifi c Islander at the South Lawn, Capi- Virginia Sen. Tim Kaine, Meanwhile, the House Gang when families stay together, tol, June 5. Photo: Bing Cardenas Branigin D-Va., delivered his speech of Eight on June 5 approved their everyone prospers. backing the consideration of the own version of the immigration Anthony Ng, an undocu- Senate leaders expect the immigration reform, Eliseo bill in Spanish, saying this was reform bill. They capped four mented immigrant youth leader bill to be passed by the Senate by Medina, Secretary-Treasurer of the language of some 40 mil- years of on-again, off-again talks from Southern California, has next month. Service Employees International lion Americans who have a lot by reaching a tentative biparti- been an active leader and advo- The AAPI families’ demands Union and Wade Henderson, at stake in the outcome of this san agreement on a comprehen- cate. He came to the U.S. with his included the preservation of the President and CEO of The Lead- debate. sive deal. parents from the Philippines. In sibling and adult children visa The vote now opens the Democratic and Republican ership Conference on Civil and 2011, he graduated from the Uni- categories, a clear and affordable way for the Senate to introduce members of the group emerged Human Rights. Impacted com- versity of California-Irvine, and amendments. The debates are from an evening meeting, saying path to citizenship for undocu- munity members shared their now hopes to earn a joint degree expected to consume more than that they had found “a way for- mented immigrants, and putting experiences highlighting why in Law and a master’s in Urban three weeks. ward,” but that no details would an end to harsh enforcement pol- immigration reform must pass Planning. In the House, meanwhile, be released until they have had icies that tear families apart. this year. “It was in the 10th grade Speaker John Boehner said he time to put their agreement in Some Filipino Americans Randy Kim traveled to when I found out about my hoped companion legislation legislative language and go over participated in the demonstra- Washington DC on a bus from undocumented status. I didn’t could clear committees in the it, line by line. tion. Chicago, IL. His family came know what it meant and what House by the end of the month. There are also reports that Joining AAPI immigrant to the U.S. as refugees from the to feel at the moment,” Anthony WASHINGTON D.C. – The another House committee voted families were Reps. Judy Chu Vietnam War and the Cambo- said. “My parents worked long Senate opened deliberations on to exclude the “Dreamers” from (CA) Jan Schakowsky (IL), dian genocide in the early 1980s. tireless hours to prove that they its own version of the compre- the bill. The Dreamers are those natives from Hawaii and Alaska He spoke to the crowd about made the right choice for our hensive immigration reform bill undocumented children of who announced their “First the story of his father and the family to move to the U.S. I on June 7 that does not include immigrants who grew up in the Americans for New Americans” strength his siblings gave each never doubted their decision. I the sibling and adult children US. campaign for comprehensive other during wartime and when am proud of them.” June 15, 2013 23 Some OFWs are... from page 1 home with his family two years ago to help co-found a business leaving behind its reputation as very optimistic about the next incubator and accelerator com- a regional laggard. Last week, three years,” he added, referring pany in Manila to support start- it reported annual GDP growth to the remainder of President ups and tech entrepreneurs. of 7.8 percent in the fi rst three Benigno Aquino’s six-year term. “There were a lot of things to months of the year, outstripping Still, Aquino faces an uphill anchor me in the United States, China to make it Asia’s fastest- task to overturn criticism he is but there were also a lot of eco- growing economy. presiding over a jobless economic attractions in this part of Earlier this year, the gov- nomic boom. the world,” said the 30-year old. ernment secured an investment The economy is unable to To turn the trickle of return- grade credit rating, reducing its create enough jobs for around ees into a fl ood, offi cials acknowl- borrowing costs, while the stock a million new job seekers each edge the economic boom needs market has reached a series of year. A quarter of the labor force to be more broad-based. record highs this year. is unemployed or underem- Some skeptics say the boom Returnees like Ragonjan are ployed and the government is is mostly benefi tting the coun- just a trickle compared to those struggling to reduce poverty. try’s still leaving the country, but the entrenched elite, with little TRICKLE DOWN? trickling down to alleviate a hope is that the more the coun- Former overseas Filipino worker (OFW) Alvin Gendran, who now works Solaire is the fi rst of four poverty rate that has remained try can draw the diaspora back with Microsoft Philippines, poses with his family at their condominium com- stubbornly high near 30 percent, to the Philippines the more that new casino-resorts to open in pound near Manila’s Makati fi nancial district May 18, 2013. the entrepreneurial spirit that Entertainment City, a 10-hectare far from the 17 percent Aquino prompted them to leave in the development near Manila Bay hopes to achieve by the time is While Aquino has had suc- ments in economic performance, fi rst place can add fuel to the that is at the forefront of the gov- he due to leave offi ce in 2016. cess in plugging holes in the and government and business economy. ernment’s push to boost tourism Per capita GDP was 6.1 per- national budget and imposing effi ciency measures, the gains Nearly two million Filipinos and investment. cent greater in the fi rst quarter revenue reforms, his govern- were not accompanied by job left last year to take on jobs such Ragonjan said part of his than a year earlier, the highest ment still faces a daunting task generation. It was down seven as seafarers, maids, laborers, decision to return to the Philip- in at least two years. But offi cial to fi x infrastructure bottlenecks places in employment, one notch hotel staff, and medical workers, pines was because there seemed unemployment remained stub- and investment constraints that down in overall productivity forming one of the world’s larg- to be more opportunity than in bornly high at 7.1 percent as of hinder broader-based growth. and two rungs down in labor est diasporas of nearly 10 million the past. He says his base salary January, the highest in Southeast Economic Planning Secre- productivity. migrants, about a tenth of the in Manila is higher than it was Asia. tary Arsenio Balisacan acknowl- Still, in Manila’s bustling population. in Abu Dhabi, but in returning “Growth is not result- edged that while real GDP per new casino, freshly returned The returnees are limited home he has also given up some ing in the creation of more jobs person has risen 11 percent over workers, or overseas Filipino because the growing sectors are for now to a few sectors, includ- fi nancial grants that went with the last two years, the gains have workers (OFWs) as they are not really labor intensive,” said ing entertainment, tourism and his job in the Gulf. not been evenly spread. known, believe the time is ripe former budget secretary Benja- information technology, but “If the Philippines continues “Inclusive growth is not for the decades-long exodus to min Diokno. some hope that it marks the start to grow like this, it can help a lot about averages, but about the reverse. “We really need to revive of a stronger fl ow. of Filipinos here. It is good to be lower part of the income distri- “I believe it is really time manufacturing. We can do “I am seeing the trend hap- back,” he said. bution,” Balisacan told reporters for our country, our economy to more.” pening,” said venture capital- The Philippines’ call centre after the GDP data. get a slice of the cake that com- In one promising sign, ist Francisco Sandejas, who as industry, the world’s biggest, He said the solution is to panies abroad are enjoying at manufacturing grew in the fi rst head of the Brain Gain Network, continues to grow strongly and link the poor to growth sectors in the expense of our hard working quarter by 9.7 percent over a an online platform connecting the country is also home to small the economy, such as manufac- OFWs,” said Rosario Chavez, a year earlier despite sluggish professional Filipinos overseas but expanding software and turing and agriculture. gaming manager at Solaire, who export demand. Capital forma- to develop business ideas in the information-technology fi rms. In the latest World Com- spent three decades abroad. tion, a measure of investment, Philippines, has been campaign- The country’s business process petitiveness Report by the Swiss- “I really hope that our gov- jumped 48 percent as the pri- outsourcing industry is expected based Institute for Management ernment will open more oppor- ing for more job creation at home vate sector expanded capacity to to employ 1.3 million people by Development, the Philippines tunities here, more reasons for for two decades. meet domestic demand, which moved up fi ve places to 43 out of our OFWs to come home.” “I am just seeing that now it 2016, up from 640,000 in 2011. is partly fuelled by funds sent is much easier to convince people Earl Valencia, a former busi- home by overseas Filipinos. 60 economies, overtaking Indo- (Editing by Rosemarie Fran- to come home, it was never easy ness incubation manager at Cisco nesia and India. cisco, Stuart Grudgings and Neil and it is still not easy... people are Systems in California, came DAUNTING While it showed improve- Fullick) Did Mylene deserve... from page 1 that Mylene was frightening her information, the two deputies and expeditious investigation of supervisors and workers called acted according to justifi ed self- vice and burial but no dates have The Washington Post pub- the police. defense procedure when Mylene the incident.” not been established at this time. lished an editorial on June 1st, The fi rst deputy arrived came at them with the knife. NaFFaa National Chairman Both Clift and Mylene’s asking the crucial question of just after 3 p.m and encountered Chapman said the two dep- uncle also declined ABS CBN’s “was her death necessary?” Scott near the back of the store, uties had several years of experi- Eduardo Navarra has expressed request for an interview, saying NaFFAA said Mylene was armed with a knife and a pair ence on the job and were up to solidarity with Ambassador they would rather not speak suffering from depression after of scissors. One of the deputies date on their training and tech- while investigations on the her divorce from Scott, who is tried to subdue the woman with niques. The two deputies are Cuisia ‘in caling for a thorough, Costco shooting are ongoing. with the US military, and that a taser but it did not work. They currently on paid administrative There are reports they are their two children, girls aged 12 claimed Ms. Scott kept advanc- leave pending the investigation’s impartial and expeditious inves- contemplating on fi ling a wrong- and 8, have been in the custody ing on them and ignored orders outcome. tigation of the incident.” NaFFaa ful death suit against of deputies of Scott’s family. to drop the weapons. The Washington Post edito- and the county. Mylene worked for the Club The other deputy fi red and rial described Chapman’s state- has also mentioned that it is with Pilippine Ambassador Demonstration Services that pro- killed her, according to Loudoun ment as “premature.” It said deep sorrow that they learned Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. and local and vided services to Costco. The County Sheriff Michael Chap- there is no shortage of witnesses national Filipino American store is located in the busy inter- man. of the incident and footage from Ms. Scott was suffering from organizations have joined in section of Cascades Parkway and Mylene was barely over fi ve the store’s internal security video demanding a thorough investi- Route 7. She was said to be work- feet tall and not much more than may have also recorded the inci- depression resulting from her gation of the case. The Washing- ing towards the end of her shift 100 pounds. The usual question dent. divorce and the loss of custody ton Post editorial called it “an when she was said to be saying that ran into people’s minds The embassy press state- unexplained death”. “crazy things” and seemed to be who read and heard the story ment said it “shares the con- of her two children. Joining the ambassador in concerned with the number of was that how could two Sher- cerns expressed by Ms. Scott’s Migrant Heritage Commis- calling for a probe of what they servings of pizza in a box. iff’s deputies not able to simply family in the Philippines and termed as the use of “excessive Renee Haber, a manager at disarm her. Why did the taser the members of the Filipino- sion co-executive director and force” were the National Federa- Costco, said that as Scott moved not work? Why did they have American Community that law tion of Filipino American Asso- away from her serving sta- to fi re multiple shots during the enforcement offi cials may have human rights lawyer, Arnedo ciations (NaFFAA), the Migrant tion, she grabbed a knife from confrontation? responded with disproportion- Valera said that the killing of Ms. Heritage Commission, and another station and was making Sheriff Michael Chapman ate force. We request authorities others. strange movements. Haber said said that based on preliminary to conduct a thorough, impartial Scott appears to be unreasonable. 2424 Entertainment June 15, 2013 Lloyd, Locsin win best actor, Montes says Coco is actress awards closest to her heart Actress Julia Montes admits ABS-CBN’s Star Cinema Danny Red and Joel Bilbao (El Fernando Poe Jr. Lifetime that Coco Martin, her leading “The Mistress” won big at the Presidente) Best Editing: Marya Achievement Award: Eddie man in the defunct top-rating 31st Film Academy of the Philip- Ignacio (The Mistress) Best Garcia Manuel de Leon Award soap “Walang Hanggan,” is still pines Luna Awards on June 1. the man closest to her heart. Three acting awards--best “Ang super close ko talaga actor, best supporting actor and at nakaka-jive ko talaga since best supporting actress--were before ay si Coco, dahil pareho kaming laki sa lola,” Montes won by “The Mistress” cast. Coco Martin and Julia Montes Kapamilya star Angel explained. “At in a way kasi Locsin won best actress for off-cam medyo mature ako, so that what is important is that another Star Cinema fi lm, “One siguro ‘yung mga mature na she and Martin are still close to More Try.” bagay na itinuturo niya sa akin, each other even after “Walang nagdiya-jive kami.” Other winners: Hanggan” and their movie, “A “Mas natuto ako sa kanya, Best Supporting Actor: Ron- Moment In Time.” siya rin natuto siya sa teenage “Close pa rin kami, may aldo Valdez (The Mistress) Best experiences ko,” she said in an communication pa rin kami. Supporting Actress: Hilda Koro- interview during the launch of Pero dahil sobrang busy namin nel (The Mistress) Best Director: her newest endorsement, Fresh- -- bida siya sa ‘Juan dela Cruz,’ Olive Lamasan (The Mistress) John Lloyd Cruz and Angel Locsin look contact lenses, on Thursday. ang taas-taas ng rating. Best Picture: El Presidente Best Martin, who previously Musical Score: Jessi Lasaten: (El for exemplary achievement: ‘Yung bonding like before Screenplay: Vanessa Valdez (The admitted his admiration for Mistress) Best Cinematography: Presidente) Best Sound: Albert Peque Gallaga Lamberto Avel- Montes, was the actress’ escort na halos every day kami mag- kasama dahil sa mga schedule, Carlo Mendoza (El Presidente) Idioma (El Presidente) Special lana Memorial Award: Marilou during her debut celebration. hindi na tulad dati. Pero okay Best Production Design: Awards: Diaz Abaya. He earlier said he plans to court Montes after her 18th birthday. kami, super close pa rin naman,” But the young actress denied she said. Daring roles in sexy thriller ‘Palitan’ that Martin is currently wooing “Ang okay kasi kay Coco, her. “Hindi naman ako ang hindi siya nagbago,” she added. Two rising stars Mara Lopez father’s apprehension. The role nililigawan niya, si lola (Flory “Like may mga advice pa rin and Alex Medina take on their required me to do torrid kissing Hautea) pa rin. So until now, si siyang ibinibigay para sa upcom- biggest and most daring roles and even some pumping scenes. lola pa rin. Kung okay na ba kay ing show ko. Hindi siya ‘yung in the sexy thriller “Palitan” As a dad, he just didn’t want his lola? Hindi ko pa natatanong si porket nakatrabaho ko before, after noon, wala na. Kung ano directed by Ato Bautista. daughter to be too exposed.” lola about doon,” she said. “Ayoko mag-assume. Pero siya noon, ganoon pa rin until In the fi lm, Alex and Mara The challenge on the part of ‘yun nga, ‘yun pa rin naman siya. now.” play married couple Nestor and Alex was performing at par with Nakaka-tense mga tanong niyo,” Currently, Montes is busy Luisa. At the behest of his boss his she told entertainment reporters. with her upcoming soap “Muling Ramiro (played by Mon Con- co-stars and living up to the “Kung sino ang nagpapakilig sa Buksan Ang Puso” with Enrique fi ado) who owns an electronics reputation established by his akin? Basta happy ako ngayon.” Gil and former suitor Enchong shop, Nestor agrees to secretly famous father, character actor Montes went on to say Dee. shoot footage of Luisa taking a Pen Medina. Alex admits, “It bath in order to repay an enor- was tough working on this fi lm. mous loan, leading to more com- I felt pressured most of the time Vice apologizes to plications not just for Nestor but because I had to measure up also for Luisa. “Luisa is my com- to Mon Confi ado’s energy and top TV journalist plete opposite,” she explains. focus. The character demanded The Philippines’ top come- Soho and Soho said she hopes Moreover, the daughter of Alex Medina and Mara Lopez so much from me.” In the end, dian, Vice Ganda, has apolo- his apology was sincere. beauty queen-turned-actress Alex did not let the pressure get gized to Jessica Soho, vice presi- “As I’ve said, this is not sion before accepting the project. Maria Isabel Lopez had to ask her to him and followed director dent of GMA-TV news program, about me, but about the issue of father (a Japanese) for permis- Mara says, “I understood my Ato’s instructions.” for jokingly saying in his May rape not being an appropriate Piolo explains ‘kissing’ scene Piolo Pascual, 35, explains a video showing him kissing Maja Salvador, 24, inside a car that went viral. Weeks after a photo of him and Maja Salvador apparently kissing circulated online, Piolo explained the scene. According to the description of the video, the photos were taken on November 24 at McKinley Hills in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig. Vice Ganda “I was coming out of a run 17 concert that Soho was “gang- subject matter for comedy. Rape sa Sunlife last week tapos nag- raped.” She said that if she were transcends age, economic class, ’Star Magic Gives Back’ concert a bold star in a movie, she had to gender and even one’s weight,” kami,” Pascual was quoted as be gang-raped to gain fame. Soho who is heavy-se, said in a saying by entertainment news Piolo Pascual tries to explain viral photo of him in torrid kissing scene with The remark created a stir statement. site Push.com.ph. “I was driv- Maja Salvador inside car. among women’s groups, includ- According to the National ing out of McKinley, nakita ko suggest a romantic relationship girl as well, busy sa trabaho ing the Philippine Commission Statistics Offi ce, nearly one out siya (Salvador), nagpaalam ako. between the two, Pascual clari- ‘yun.” on Women which said “rape of 10 women aged 15-49 has Then she suddenly rode in my fi ed that he is only friends with The “Apoy sa Dagat” star jokes hurt women who are suf- experienced sexual violence. But car tapos ‘yun, may pumicture Salvador. Referring tothe actress’ also laughed off jokes from their fering or may have suffered from the PCW noted that “many rape na we were going to kiss, tapos former boyfriend, Pascual said, friends linking them as a couple. the trauma of rape. It is no laugh- cases go unreported because ‘yun na,” the actor added. “I am friends with Matteo (Guid- “Lokohan lang iyon, wala ‘yun,” ing matter. victims are shamed and rape is Although the photo may icelli) as well, and Maja is a nice he said. Ganda has apologized to trivialized.” June 15, 2013 25 Lest We Forget… By Jocelyn P. Porteria I was in denial thinking how confi rmed of what’s going on rude was that and I’ve never in my head. It is really what I This was the controver- seen anything like that even in was thinking but I can’t believe sial banner unfurled during Europe where Soccer is their it. I’ve never seen anything like the AZKALS supposedly a way of life. Anyway, I was so that before. Azkals manager “friendly” game against Hong excited myself so I just shrugged Dan Palami rued the Hong Kong Kong held in Mong Kok sta- it off. Just imagine how crazy fans’ behavior, saying it could dium in Kowloon. The banner we were cheering and scream- refl ect on the country’s football stated Lest We Forget Manila ing after James Younghusband’s governing body. “It’s unfortu- 23/08/2010 referring to the goal!! With that loud cheer and nate that the HKFA, who really bloody hostage on a Tourist Bus our fl ags waiving all over, we treated the Azkals well, could be with Chinese passengers. There were not outnumbered consid- dragged down by the actions of On Our Own Coded Words also a replica of the Japanese ering we are in Hong Kong. So unruly and hostile fans,” Palami proud of Filipinos everywhere (Following is a speech locked and local governments, in reports Imperial fl ag with the banner. posted on his Twitter account in the world where we always in my mental drawer which I, in my and messages from social and The picture appears on the late Wednesday. “The Azkals support our people. I can’t dream, intend to open only if and cultural associations or groups; inside pages of Hong Kong Eng- are used to playing in a hos- explain the feeling but it was when an audience of compatriots and in headlines and stories car- lish daily The Standard. tile environment, but we were ecstatic!! Our adrenalin were so harks for a delivery; the wait for a ried by various media whose I promised myself to try my unprepared to deal with (what high and so scared, our hearts preferred venue is longer than any readerships, listeners, or view- best to go wherever AZKALS happened),” he added. In an stopped each time Hong Kong imagined nights) ers are outside the geographical play and fortunately I was able editorial, the South China Morn- Team almost made the goals (Introduction…) and cultural limits of the Philip- to make it just before the game on ing Post denounced the behav- but thanks to Neil Etheridge Let me run by you several pines. Filipinos is a proper, not a June 4. It was exciting to watch ior of a number of Hong Kong who stood like a Great Wall of names which I am sure are new common, noun. Period. people rushed inside the stadium fans and called for punishment. China blocking all the goals no to your ears, by their tones and “Pinoy,” on the other hand, and there were lots of Filipinos “Filipinos have every right to be matter how diffi cult the angles accents: Portenos, Gatos, Barce- is a term of endearment, a word of course. The place speaks for outraged. They had gone to the were. After the game, Filipino loneses, Chillangos, Tapatios, that speaks of emotions, of an stadium to cheer on their team, itself. I had goose bumps when fans run towards the bottom of Zapallos, Chapines, Guanacos, intimacy that can only occur not endure taunts and ridicule. I entered the stadium and see the stadium to congratulate the Nicos, and Ticos. These are affec- between and among individu- Philippine fl ags of different sizes team. The team was about to do Their national anthem was dis- tionate names Spanish speakers als whose feelings are tied to the all over being waved. I was the traditional waving and shak- respected when it was played, in Latin and Central Americas privacy of their discretions. It lucky to get a small one that I ing their hands with picture tak- they were insulted by being call themselves. These names all is a word not unlike any word proudly waved the whole time. I ings and autographs as a token called derogatory names and connote endearments and bonds. spoken by husbands and wives captured the scenes on my video of appreciation coming to the plastic bottles were among items Portenos in cities in Argentina; in the privacy of their bedrooms. and camera shots. Tears are game and supporting them. But thrown at them. The barrage of Gatos in Madrid, Spain; Barce- In tones and accents, it must being held when the “Lupang they were stopped by Chinese discrimination worsened after loneses in Barcelona and other denote a trace of personal own- Hinirang” was being played; but securities because water bottles the Philippines won the game nearby cities in Spain; Chilangos ership. It is a code and must be wait, did I hear boooos at the sta- were being thrown to the Phil- 1-0,” the editorial read. in Mexico City, and other cities used with extreme discretion. dium? Yes it is and of course not ippine Team with nasty words As of this writing, the DFA in Mexico; Tapatios in Guada- My wife and I and family from Filipinos. On the other side and gestures, fi ngers fl icking, the is now involved and the incident lajara, Mexico; Zapallos in Lima members are fortunate to where I was seating just like the crowd became unruly so they is under investigation. The Phil- in Peru; Chapines in Guatemala; have at our disposal a facility offi cial cheering squad of Hong were immediately escorted to ippine Football Federation will Guanacos in El Salvador; Nicos to travel abroad. Whenever we Kong team called “The Power of their locker room. I sat next to report the incident to the Asian in Nicaragua; and Ticos in Costa are in Rome, Madrid, Venice, Hong Kong” turned their backs the exit and while the AZKALS Football Confederation as unac- Rica. Amsterdam, or any other cities while our National Anthem is players were getting in, some ceptable and unnecessary. The To this I may add, quote in Europe, even in Sydney, Mel- playing. Do they really mean it Chinese supporters quickly victory is a history as Philippines Pinoy unquote. On paper, I bourne, Tokyo, Beijing, Bangkok, or they were just so excited with rushed to that area and scream- never won against Hong Kong write this appellation not in Seoul, or Hong Kong, we use the game to even notice that our ing and gesturing to the players. since 1958. Yes AZKALS, let’s Italics but in quotation marks. “Pinoy?” as an interrogatory to National Anthem was playing? Filipino supporters were scream- change the banner to “Lest we This fi ve-letter word is com- preface our conversations with Although I know the answers, ing in protest as well. Now, I forget AZKALS 06/05/2013” monly used to describe those or inquiries from anyone whose born and coming from the Phil- facial features resemble our of making sure that customs recognition, he then said, Si, si, times, surreptitiously with hint ippines, including their descen- own Asiatic makeup. And sure and immigration documents of Filipino! Claro que si! Filipino! of intrigue. They ignore phrases dants here in the United States enough, when the recognition arriving passengers from abroad This was then when my total replete with historical origins, and elsewhere in the globe. The clicks, the familiarity follows who are seeking entrance to being was defi ned by someone such as Taga-Ilog, referring to reach is endemic and sadly, the smoothly. The word is a code, the United States are properly those living at the edge of a big description, more often than not, a currency tucked away in our who was outside the geographi- body of waters in the middle betrays unwanted ignorance of wallets given or disposed occa- fi lled out. I was then talking to a cal limits but familiar with Phil- years of 14th century and who Philippine history and culture. sionally only to those we trust Spanish-speaking group whose ippine history and her culture. I were speaking a commonality People born and reared in the and in commerce. knowledge of American English could have died of shame if he of language later evolving into Philippines are Filipinos, calling Coded or not, “Pinoy” is a was close to nil. To communi- had called me “pinoy.” Tagalog, the national language; them as such is a part of a pat- far cry from the proper appella- cate with assured results, I used At the present, “pinoy” is Sanglis, members of a commu- tern of learned behavior handed tion, Filipinos. They come from what I had learned from a three- a currency held in common by nity of Fukien-speaking Chinese down from parents to their chil- a country that has been assured semester course I had taken to users of facebook, itube, ilinked, traders living before the arrival dren, including, possibly, a long and accorded respectable mem- meet a requirement for gradua- tumblr, twitter, and other social of the Europeans in areas close line of descendants. A systematic bership in a community of tion from the University of Santo websites. As I have said, it is a to the boundaries of the pres- transfer dating back to a period nations. The international rec- Tomas in Manila. While talk- coded word and must be used ent Cavite; Illustrados, the edu- even before the arrival of Magel- ognition has been granted with ing with this group of arriving only when talking with some- cated class of people during the lan and his ship in 1521. They, seals of approval because of the passengers, I noticed from the one whose familiarity with Spanish colonial period; Insur- we, are not Chinese, Japanese, country’s history and culture corner of my eyes that a distin- our person, history or culture rectos or Katipuneros, the rebels Koreans, Arabs, or Indonesians; dating back to a period, hun- guished-looking passenger had matches, if not exceeds, our own against the Spanish Rule of the even in any hyphenated cir- dreds of years, preceding the been observing me from a short stature. Because it is used, with Philippines which lasted for 333 cumstances, we, they, are not arrival of Magellan and his ship distance, trying to know and dis- widespread indiscretion, it is years; or Pensionados, Philip- Guamanian-Filipinos, Vietnam- in 1521. My belief in this was tinguish my physical and facial sometimes hurled as a pejorative. pine government scholars sent ese-Filipinos, nor Taiwanese-Fil- strengthened by an incident that makeup, trying to peg me among Unwittingly, it is used by persons in the early 1900s to the United ipinos. We are simply, properly, occurred when I was working the familiar faces he had met, whose knowledge of its origin is States to study and master much- historically, and culturally, Fili- part-time for an airline company I guessed, in his many travels. purely apocryphal, gleaned from needed knowledge of arts and pinos, with a capital F. at the Washington Dulles Inter- He then, in measured steps and unsolicited entries in Wikipedia sciences to be later disseminated Filipinos, as an appellation, national Airport, after retiring as in his bespoke suit, approached and Google. These users deny, to local students. should carry with it a certain a managing editor of a unit at a me and in his precise Madrileno and at times, overlook a fact that The vogue in using coded degree of formality and respect. company that publishes informa- accent, but apologetic in tone, a coded word is used, spoken, or words, perhaps, started with It must be used in international tion services for lawyers, com- asked, Por que sabe usted hablar written with connecting words the unraveling of an organized and offi cial correspondence, in pany executives, and other pro- espanol? I answered, Soy de or phrases of endearment, with policy declarations of national fessionals. I was then in charge Filipinas, Senor! In a surprised infl ection of affection, or some- Continued on page 31 26 June 15, 2013 PHAD THAI Greetings from Rosario, Methods: with cancer and other serious ill- Cavite, Philippines! We’re just Soak the noodles in cold nesses; Culinary writer; Member, back from Bangkok, Thailand, water for 20 minutes. Les Dames d’Escoffi er International, fresh from the intensive school- Using a wok on low heat, Washington DC Chapter; Member, ing from Royal Thai Elephant stir fry shallot and garlic until International Cake Exploration School. I am proud to present aroma permeates. Add shrimps Society, Member: Culinary Histo- to you my fi rst Royal Phad Thai. and stir fry until half cooked. rians of Washington, D.C.; Master Enjoy the authenticity of this Mix in the tofu and sweet turnips Chef, French Cuisine and Patisserie, recipe. and then add the egg. Le Cordon Bleu, London. 4 oz. dried Thai noodles Add noodles; stir fry until 2 cloves garlic soft and translucent. Season 2 pieces shallots with sugar, fi sh sauce, rice vin- 6 pieces extra large shrimps egar and tamarind juice. Stir (shelled and deveined) gently until well mixed. 2 tablespoons small diced Add dried shrimp powder, tofu peanuts, and chili powder and 2 tablespoons fi nely stir well. Add the bean sprouts chopped turnips (store-bought) and spring onion at the last 2 1 egg (scrambled) minutes of cooking. Turn off 1 tablespoon dried shrimp heat immediately and transfer to powder a serving platter. 2 tablespoons ground Garnish before serving. roasted peanuts Editor’s Note: Master Chef 3 stems spring onion (cut Evelyn: 100 Most Infl uential Fili- into 1 inch long) pina Women in the U.S., 2009, Fili- 1/2 cup bean sprouts pina Women’s Network; MHC Most Seasoning Outstanding Migrant Award in Culinary Arts, 2011; PAFC Dakila 1 or 2 tablespoons sugar Special Achievement Award, 2011; 2 tablespoons fi sh sauce Owner/Chef, Philippine Oriental 1 tablespoon rice vinegar Market & Deli, Arlington, Virginia; 1 tablespoon tamarind juice Founder and President of CHEW 2 pinches chili powder (Cancer Help – Eat Well) Founda- Garnish tion, a 501 (c) (3) public charity 1 lime, halves formed to help and cook pro-bono for cilantro leaves Filipino-Americans who are affl icted HUSBAND One day the housework- world.” the husband got out of bed and challenged husband decided to The woman replies, “I’ll the wife asked, “Where are you wash his sweat- shirt. Seconds miss you when you’re gone...” going, dear?” “To get my teeth,” after he stepped into the laun- the husband replied. dry room, he shouted to his wife, THE WISH “What setting do I use on the A man and his wife, now PINOY NGA washing machine?” in their 60’s, were celebrating “Isang araw, pagod na “It depends,” the wife their 40th wedding anniversary. pagod si Isme sa kanyang tra- replied. “What does it say on On their special day a good baho. Nagpunta siya sa shop your shirt?” fairy came to them and said that para magpahinga. Binuksan ang He yelled back, “University because they had been so good, ref, “Langya someone stole my the fi rst people who land on the Titser: Kung ganun, mahilig of Oklahoma.” each one of them could have Coke…” sabi niya. So inutu- sun... sa tubig. And they say blondes are one wish. The wife wished for a san niya ang isa niyang tauhan. American: You must be Ponso: Opo dumb... trip around the world with her “May nagnakaw ng Coke ko... husband. Whoosh! Immediately pakikuha mo na lang ako ng joking... the sun is so damn hot! Titser: Kung mahilig ka THE DIFFERENCE she had airline/cruise tickets in instant tea sa mess hall.” Filipino: What you think, sa tubig, eh di mahilig ka ring What is the difference her hands. The man wished for “Yes boss,” sagot ng tauhan. we are stupid? We land there at lumangoy. between girls/women aged: 8, a female companion 30 years Hintay siya nang hintay sa night. Ponso: Siyempre po. 18, 28, 38, 48, 58, 68, and 78? younger... Whoosh...immedi- tauhan dahil ang tagal bumalik MAGPADAGDAG Titser: Kung mahilig kang At 8 -- You take her to bed ately he turned ninety! ito - so nanood muna siya ng lumangoy, eh di mahilig ka sa Magkasintahan nag-uusap. and tell her a story. tv. Nang bumalik ang tauhan, beach. Lani: Ok lang ba kung mag- At 18 -- You tell her a story WIFE’S PRAYER reklamo ng reklamo ito at sabi - Ponso: Opo. padagdag ako ng boobs, hon? and take her to bed. Dear Lord... I pray for “Bossing, ang bigat-bigat naman Titser: Kung mahilig kang Joey: Ok lang naman sa akin At 28 -- You don’t need to Wisdom to understand my hus- itong ‘istante!” lumangoy at magpunta sa beach yun. tell her a story to take her to bed. band; for Love to forgive him; ay mahilig ka rin sa mga chicks ASTRONOT Lani: Talaga, hindi ka At 38 -- She tells you a story And for Patience for his terrible at nangangahulugang machong- Nag uusap ang tatlong magagalit? and takes you to bed. moods. Because, Lord, if I pray macho ka. Tama ba ako? for Strength, I’ll beat him to astronaut. Joey: Hindi... bakit naman At 48 -- She tells you a story Ponso: Opo, sir. Ngayon po, death for sure. Amen. American: Yeah, we are the ako magagalit - pero teka lang, to avoid going to bed. naintindihan ko na po ang Logic. fi rst people who landed on the hindi ba masagwa kung tatlo ang At 58 -- You stay in bed to THE WAY IT WAS Nang umuwi si Alfonso, avoid her story. moon. boobs mo? A couple were in bed after tinanong siya ng kaibigan kung At 68 -- If you take her to Russian: You must know we celebrating their Golden Wed- LOGIC ano ang napag-aralan, at siyem- bed, that’ll be a story! are the fi rst people who landed Nag-aral si Alfonso ng Phi- pre ang sagot niya ay Logic. At 78 -- What story? What ding Anniversary. The wife on Mars. losophy at ang subject ay tung- Isme: Ano ang logic? bed? Who the hell are you? said, “Darling, embrace me the Filipino: Ah! Those are way you used to when we fi rst nothing compared to us Filipi- kol sa logic. Tinanong niya sa Ponso: Ganito yun... may THE HAPPIEST got married.” He did. “Now nos... titser kung ano ang Logic. aquarium ka ba sa bahay? A couple is lying in bed. The kiss me the way you used to..... Russian: What do you Titser: Ganito yun... may Isme: Wala. man says, “I am going to make Now darling bite me the way mean? aquarium ka ba sa bahay? Ponso: Eh di bakla ka. Yan you the happiest woman in the you used to.....” At this point Filipino: Biro mo, we are Ponso: Meron po. ang Logic. June 15, 2013 27 Celebrate Fathers athers are normally less expressive but truth is Fthey also look forward to being treated like on “top of the world” on Father’s day. Though they don’t say it, it is also their silent wish that their children give them extra attention on us: Daddy the “King of the Car” on your pocketbook, too. Shop- their day like how their mates and Mommy “the Queen of the ping at Home Depot or Lowes English Spoken Here were treated on Mother’s Day. House.” In their innocent minds, would be good with their sale he inquiry was spoken role because by then I had grown Some appear to just shrug their kings and queens were the high- items. It would be easy to spot the slowly, deliberately. weary of juggling different hats. shoulders, but some are also sen- est titles given to royalties in the items that he needed for home T“Do…you…speak…and… My wifely, motherly, and club-ly sitive. Unlike moms, we know children’s books they got hold repairs or projects like electric write…English?” Yes, I said, duties intersected often and with that being served breakfast on of and since my husband drove saw, grass trimmer, water hose insulted by the question. “Well… exhausting consequences for me. bed is not something that would our family car often, it became or garden tool set. But of course enough?” She persisted. YES, I was constantly diffusing sev- really appeal to them. In my his dominion and since I moved the tractor grass mower would I replied more forcefully. Her eral crises at once. observation, big breakfast served a lot in the house, then it was my be expensive and most probably eyes expressed doubt. I saw her I was properly vetted and on the breakfast table would territory. How thoughtful, sensi- not within the budget. If he likes mouth move but I blocked out was deemed more than capable. I be their preference. For those tive and creative they were! My fi shing as a hobby, then new set the rest of her questions. I con- speak and write English, and am whose palates have not forgot- husband whispered to me “ang of fi shing rods, big cooler or fi sh- centrated on the uneven slabs of not a native born American. My ten the taste of Filipino breakfast liit naman ng palasyo ko, gumu- ing wear would be appropriate. stones that lined the fl oor of the journey from a prickly insecure would be happy with the “tapsi- gulong pa.”I retorted quietly, If your Papa is already retired, quaint restaurant. girl who was mired in academic log” kind with the choice of tapa “pasalamat ka hindi ka King of the sets of pajamas or dinner certifi - She continued to talk. My sinkhole to a confi dent woman or fried bangus, sinangag at itlog – Road.” We both warmly hugged cates for two would be appropri- teeth hurt. It was an effort to took decades, but I detested this scrambled, poached or over easy. and thanked them for these ate. Mama will be happy with unclench my jaw. I gazed at the woman’s assumption. Her role Tomatoes with itlog na maalat, “honors.”Now adults, they have the 2nd choice. For some Dads, old style windows and counted was not to question my compe- cut-up fruits and hot chocolate not forgotten these gestures of they will truly appreciate money the panes. How dare her. I tence. She was there to swear in or coffee would perfectly com- love and affection for us. Like- gifts of whatever amount. ignored the knot in my stomach. I the incoming offi cers. No one plete their expectations. Without wise, my husband and I are con- *Tatay is the Tagalog name counted two dozen panes before else suffered through this humil- doubt, this would really satisfy stantly reminded of the impor- for Daddy, Papa, Pops, or Papy. I felt a pat on my shoulder. The iating lecture. the tummy of the hungry Papa, tance and respect these little chil- I am reminded of our friends, lecture was over. She gave me I lost face. “Nawalan ng Daddy, Pop or Tatay. For others dren gave us from then on. Jun and Alma Conty who are a perfunctory nod and walked who are already accustomed to called Tatay and Nanay by their hiya, ng amor propio.” So I plot- What Gifts to Give? away. “You and I will revisit this ted my revenge. But I must have western breakfast fares would U.S. born children. The couple For some, choosing the humiliation,” I promised myself done something good in my past be contented with pancakes or trained their kids early on to call perfect gift for fathers can be a as I stared at her retreating back. life. Angels knew the negativity toasts, eggs, bacon or sausage, them this way. I fi nd it amusing nerve-wracking exercise. Dads 1990 was a time of restless- in revenge would destroy me, hash browns or grits, orange to hear these English speaking with sophisticated palates might ness for me. My children were in so they plotted my redemption juice and coffee - ala Interna- children with no trace of Filipino enjoy relaxing in his den, with school during the day. The fre- with Karma, the best way they tional Pancake House menu. In dialect accent when addressing family or equally sophisticated netic pace of the early morning knew how. this endeavor, mothers are very their parents with pure Tagalog friends with a glass of wine- fi ne and late afternoon activities bor- DVGC decided to join the much needed for guidance, gro- terminology. I honestly admire dered midday boredom. I longed cery purchases and all the preps. diamond cut glasses fi lled with the parents for preserving this poetry contest created by the vintage wines are a great gift for for adult activity, for adult con- national organization. Wild- On June 16, we honor and piece of Filipino heritage in their celebrate them. We should try the important Padre de Familia versation. fl owers, long regarded as weeds family but I wonder if their chil- to give them equal attention like with connoisseur taste. This I followed my husband’s occupied the lowest rung in the dren will in turn pass it on to we did to honor mothers in May. suggestion is not for everyone, career but his medical practice garden totem pole. But that year their own children and down I heard from a couple of Dads though. had long taken off and my role they became the national pet the line to the succeeding gen- in the past that their day was Actually, the kind of gifts as his Girl Friday was greatly project. Each local club submit- erations. It will be interesting to diminished. I became a stay- not celebrated as lively as their to give your Tatay* depends on ted entries to their state. The state see the effect of this small change at-home mom, not out of any wives. In this case, we moms what type of a guy he is or what picked one winning verse that in the Conty family in American momentous epiphany, but out of should give some hint-hints to he likes to receive. Is he still in will be included in the anthol- culture in the near future- wish- necessity. our children to show and make the offi ce workforce, a fashionista ogy, ‘The Wildfl ower’. Our state ful thinking. Dominion Valley Garden their dads feel the needed self ala GQ, with a hobby, handy- chose mine. Club (DVGC), my ersatz sorority esteem. Of course they know man or retired already? Dads Enjoy Your Dads! as my younger daughter called The Wildfl ower that they are loved and respected are already tired of getting ties, In reality, we fi nd ourselves it, recruited me that year. Mem- I will survive the scorching sun as much as moms. Ay naku, ang so when purchasing the gift, in different and various family bership was by invitation only long droughts can’t take away amor propio is in play! remember to tailor your choice to situations. Many of us are blessed and I was fl attered to be asked. the fun In the Philippines back then, what he would really appreciate. and lucky to have fathers in our A few years after I joined I was of giving you my blooms we did not really have these If he is still working in the offi ce life, but some, unfortunately, given the responsibility of put- until the summer is gone Mother’s Day and Father’s Day shirts or pants would be nice but are not in normal situations for ting together the club yearbook. I will survive with least bit of schedules in the calendar. But if a GQ kind of a guy, then be numerous and various reasons– By fi lling it with my original fare I recall my children young as sure to get him the classy type circumstantial or otherwise. poems and illustrations, I devel- the least bit of food the earth will they were, on one occasion had of whatever you will purchase, Unfortunately, I do not have a oped what was a dry informa- spare made an announcement. It was meaning a little expensive items. Daddy to celebrate his day any- tional resource brochure into an for my needs are meager kind of a big deal to them. They In the latter case, the giver must more. He passed away on New interesting competitive yearbook I will survive with the least bit of gave us titles but so as not to be a higher bracket earner and a Year’s Day a couple of decades which won a national award. care hurt our feelings, the titles were savvy dresser himself or herself. ago. In a way I still honor and That honor placed DVGC at par I will survive your lack of praise of equal importance. With pride The handyman type must be remember him by saying silent with the rest of the stars of the your lack of attention, your lack and honor they bestowed upon easier to get gifts for and easier prayers. National Garden Clubs, Inc. of passion big smile. Surely not for me, but your poem to represent us!” I was left to stare at her retreat- Soon after that I was asked for my worth was never mea- I’m the only person there. I tried She beamed. “I was one of the ing back once again. I wanted to to be the club secretary. The sured throwing her my thoughts just judges.” Without missing a beat throw something at her. I made a beautifully (and expensively) by your newfound admiration. wrapped dozen peach roses I in case she was a mind reader. she continued. “Do you know witchy face and yelled my frus- received from the chairwoman “Don’t ruin it. I can speak Eng- why? Because it was passion- tration instead and started to responsible for putting together At the appreciation lun- lish, I tell you. Go away!” But ate!” She exclaimed and raised a laugh. What a self-centered clue- the next year’s slate of offi cers cheon, a woman followed me to she approached with purposeful fi st for emphasis. less person, but the challenge underscored her desperation. the powder room. It was HER, strides. Without waiting for my she lobbed at me, albeit uninten- No one was willing to accept the my bête noir, the ‘lecture’ lady “Myrna Lopez?” She asked. response she turned to retrace tional, unleashed my passion to job. I was hesitant to take on that from the restaurant. She had a “Congratulations! We chose her steps back to the dining hall. write. Lucky me. 2828 Editorial June 15, 2013 Was her death necessary? On May 29, inside a Costco store in Sterling, Va., Mylene De Leon Scott was fatally shot by a Loudoun County sheriff’s deputy who claimed that the Filipina worker came at him and another deputy with a knife. The offi cer said he had no choice but to shoot Mylene out of self defense. Mhai, as her friends and family from the Philippines called her, was a contract worker at Costco who served pizza samples to customers. According to news accounts, Costco called police because Mhai was behaving erratically. Although one offi cer tried to subdue her with a Taser gun, the other offi cer immediately fi red a volley of bullets at Mhai when the Taser apparently failed. The Washington Post has questioned whether Mhai’s death was necessary and called for an investigation of the fatal shooting. “Failing to do so will only invite further questions and suspicions about the prudence of the deputies’ actions and the circumstances of Ms. Scott’s death,” the Post said. Manila Times We agree. We also support Mhai’s family who believe that excessive force was used against their 38-year-old daughter and mother of two young children. $30 per absentee vote? Filipino American community leaders and the Philippine Ambas- This is not Tsismis. This is a serious Who put the lipsticks mark on Presi- sador Jose L. Cuisa Jr. have called for an “independent and expedi- email send by a Tsismoso dual citizen to dent Obama’s shirt? Bing Branigin says tious” investigation of the fatal killing. We also call for increased yours truly. He is obviously not happy it’s Jessica’s grandma who positioned her- training of the Loudoun County Sheriff’s deputies on the proper use about the low absentee voter turnout in self near the door that Obama entered and of force in dealing with people with mental disorders. the United States and Sen. Franklin Dril- asked for permission to kiss him. Because Mhai’s reported divorce and the loss of custody of her kids may on’s reaction to it: the President is tall and grandma is short, have trigged what psychologists call “psychotic episodes,” result- “Incoming Senate President Frank- she could only reach up to the collar of lin Drilon wants the Commission on ing in her apparent non-compliance to the offi cers’ orders. It is the President. Security was lax. Why did Elections and the Department of Foreign they not intervene or ask what lipstick common, psychologists point out, that when extreme circumstances Affairs to explain the low turnout in the grandma was using. occur, family members especially in the Filipino community would May 13, 2013 mid-term elections. He says not have even known that a person is experiencing mental illness or Congress allocated more than P100 mil- *** June being a month for weddings, depression. lion to these two offi ces to oversee the absentee voting worldwide. But as it here’s how a lovelorn records her feelings Filipino American leaders must do more community education for a man in taglish (Tagalog-English). to promote mental health treatment. Because of stigma and “hiya” turned out, only 113,209 out of 737,759 registered voters actually voted. And in We’ ve been friends for a long time (shame), many Filipinos refuse to seek treatment, or may ignore signs the US, only 14,098 cast their votes out of ago. We come from the same alma that their family members may be ill. What happened to Mylene and 93,229 registered voters. mother. Actually, our paths crossed one many others who struggle with mental disorders is a wake up call to Drilon added: ‘With only 113,209 time on another.... make sure people are able to cope with their emotions and problems overseas Filipinos voting. The cost of each But it’s only now that I gave him a second look. I realized that beauty is in the in healthy ways. (Jon Melegrito) absentee vote is nowP1,310 (about $30) per vote. This is outrageous. I wonder eyes. The pulp-bits of my heart went fast, how the Comelec and the DFA can justify really fast. Cute pala siya. And then, he these numbers.’ came over with me. “Later, among the excuses given by He said, “I hope you don’t mine. Can the Comelec group in charge of absentee I get your number?” voting was that it was lack of interest Nag-worry ako. What if he doesn’t because it was only a mid-term election give it back? He explained naman na it’s and that many voters may have moved to so we could keep intact daw. Sabi ko, con- new addresses. Philippine Ambassador nect me if I’m wrong but are you asking Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. also made a face-saving me ouch? Nabigla siya. Sagot niya, The! argument that ‘it was a marked improve- Aba! ment of 282 percent compared to 3,602 Parang siya pa ang galit! Persona who voted in 2007 mid-term election.’ ingrata!!! Ang kapal niya! Medyo bitin yata iyan, pareng Tsismoso. I cried buckles of tears. “I suggest that the ambassador or the Na-guilty yata siya. Sabi niya, isipin DFA write a letter to Drilon saying that mo na lang na this is a blessing in the sky. almost 1,000 envelops sent by the Come- Irregardless daw of his feelings, we’ll go lec for the jurisdiction under the embassy ouch na rin. Now, we’re so in love. Mute in Washington DC alone were undeliv- and epidemic na ang past. Thanks God we ered because of wrong addresses or were swallowed our fried. Kasi, I’m 33 na and not mailed in by the voters because of con- I’m running our time. After 2 weeks, he fusing instructions on how to vote! Many plopped the question. “Will you marriage voters did not have enough information me?” I’m in a state of shocked. Kasi man- about the candidates. Some had to ask takin mo, when it rains, it’s four! This is friends whom to vote for. true good to be true. DFA should also suggest that in the So siyempre, I said yes. Love is a 2016 election, the embassies and consul- many splendor. ates abroad be given the money and the Pero nung inaayos ko na ang aming power to handle the ballots. If American kasal, everything swell to pieces. diplomats can handle absentee votes, Nag-di-dinner kami noon nang why not the Filipinos. They are more biglang sa harap ng aming table, may intelligent than the Comelec offi cers and babaeng humirit ng, “Well, well, well. envelop mailers who don’t know where Look do we have here.” What the fuss! Virginia is. The nerd ng babaeng yon! She said they “OAVs in the United States should were still on. So I told her, whatever is launch a campaign to correct this anom- that, cut me some slacks! I didn’t want aly. Reforms are needed, ASAP.” this to get our hand kaya I had to sip it I second the emotion. in the bud. She accused me of steeling her *** boyfriend. June 15, 2013 Opinion 29 Life or death couple of weeks ago, a friend of mine witnessed A a shooting incident inside the Costco warehouse store in Sterling, Virginia. He saw part of the confrontation between two police offi cers and a young woman who was later identifi ed as a Filipino American. It was no contest. The woman was killed. According to reported eye- wife, a well-meaning Ameri- comedy of errors that one of the witness accounts, the woman’s can customer pushed her head offi cers wounded his partner Mylene work was to give out pizza down because it was bobbing up in the leg. I talked to a retired as it too late to save Was it too late to save samples to Costco customers and down as she tried to peek police offi cer who spent twelve Mylene De Leon Scott Mylene by the time she showed inside the store premises. Some- and see what was going on, not years on the beat in the District Wthe day she showed up for work at a Costco store in body called the police when the exactly a textbook technique to of Columbia and after listening up for work at a Costco store in Sterling? She could have called woman allegedly was noticed seek cover from fl ying bullets. to my account of the incident, Sterling, giving pizza samples in sick. But she needed to work, acting out of the ordinary, mum- While my friend appreci- he says- “It shows lack of proper to customers who were totally to buy food and pay rent. And bling incomprehensibly and ated the presence of law enforce- training.” oblivious to what was going on to send money home. She had appearing upset or angry while ment offi cers in a situation where The woman did not hurt in her mind? to work so she can pay a good brandishing a knife and a pair of there was an apparent threat to anybody. She did not run amuck. Anything could have hap- lawyer and win back her kids. scissors. public safety, he felt sorry for Did she move in a menacing pened. They meant the whole world to Enter a pair of sheriff depu- the fallen woman. He said- “In manner to threaten the offi cers? But did she have to die? her. Without them, everything ties from Loudoun County and my younger years, I could have If the offi cers felt threatened, was While shoppers went about else didn’t matter. the confrontation begins. My easily taken that woman down it justifi ed to shoot-to-kill instead friend saw the offi cers point their their merry ways fi lling carts Yes, all the whole world with a baseball bat. She didn’t of shoot to disable? One bullet to guns to a direction partly cov- with stuff and wares and cheer- talked about was the knife in her have to die. The two police offi - the pelvic area would likely stop hand and how menacing that ered by merchandise shelf and fully chatting away, Mylene was cers could probably disarm the the woman in her tracks. And if made her look. saying – ”Drop it, drop it.” Then speaking to no one but herself. woman by bumping her with the offi cers are not good enough Her husband just divorced her. But no one knew the rage he heard gunshots. Then he saw shopping carts..” He thinks that to hit below the abdomen in She had lost custody of her two inside her head the day she a woman slumped on the fl oor two burly offi cers both six foot- a close encounter, they don’t children, eight and 12 years old. showed up for work that fateful now within his full view. ers could certainly overpower deserve their badge. Except for an uncle who lives in afternoon on the twenty-ninth My friend’s blood pressure the confused woman without The gory slaughter of an off- the area, the rest of her family of May. Only Mylene knew how went up the roof but quickly sta- deadly force. duty military man in the streets are back home in the Philippines, painful and cruel it was, the bilized upon fi nding his darling Reports say that the sheriff of London in broad daylight at totally oblivious to what was rejection and the loss. And she wife safe after ducking behind fi rst used a Taser gun but that it the hands of two political or reli- going on in her mind. told no one. It was her cross to shelves of cheese together with didn’t work. If it weren’t a trag- A sister said she was just bear alone. To even breathe a a lady friend. According to his edy, you could say that it was a Continued on page 31 talking to her on the phone an word to anyone was unthink- hour before and thought she able. To suffer in silence was her sounded fi ne. Her family didn’t only option. Courage essential to independence have a clue to the rage that was All of these are conjectures, s a modus vivendi possible killing her inside. Until they of course. Because we really for the Philippine’s territorial were notifi ed that she had just don’t know what was inside her Iclaims in Sabah and the West died. head the day she showed up for Philippine Sea? But Mylene was very much work at a Costco store in Ster- As the Philippines celebrates alive when the cops came hours ling. All we know was the knife her 115th year as a sovereign and earlier. It must have been a slow in her hand that prompted one free republic, that sounded like a day. Witnesses saw eight offi cers armed deputy to fi re his gun. relevant question to ask as we lis- rush inside the store. Two armed And now she’s gone. From tened to two experts discuss the deputies approached Mylene, her kids and family. From her dimensions of the country’s mar- their weapons loaded, ready tiny room in her silent world itime claims in the South China to fi re. They barked orders for where she spoke to no one but Sea and locally-based physician Mylene to “drop it,” referring to herself. And whatever it was Abraham Rasul, a member of the a knife in her hand, a knife she that was in her head, we’ll never Sulu royal family talk about the was using to cut pizza samples know because she’s dead. Philippine claim on Sabah. Sea. And as he fi elded questions He delved on developments to hand out to customers. But I imagine Mylene restlessly Lawyer Henry Bensurto Jr.’s at the 2nd Talakayan sa Philip- in Scarborough (Panatag) Shoal, Mylene didn’t respond. Fearing stirring the night before in her unsurpassed mastery of mari- pine Embassy last week (June about a hundred miles west off perhaps for her life. Maybe she bed, wrestling with her demons time laws especially where it 6), he was obviously a master of the Zambales coastline. While just wasn’t in her right mind. and the darkness in her troubled affects the country’s territorial the subject – a little too much, we Bensurto discussed the legal One deputy shot her fi rst soul. What she needed most was claims in the West Philippine Sea thought. and diplomatic rudiments of the with a Taser. When that didn’t light, not heat. But that’s what is the reason why we still don’t I have to confess I got lost a Philippines pursuing arbitration work, the other offi cer fi red, she got instead: heat packed in have a consul-general in Wash- couple of minutes into his brief- proceedings against China, De almost immediately, hitting a holster, burning holes in her ington DC. He was slated to ing. If it demonstrated anything Castro zeroed in on the “real- Mylene with a volley of live fragile body. In a fog, she needed succeed Ding Nolasco but Padre at all – it was how complicated politik” that China employs bullets. Not one but fi ve bul- more than anything else a guid- Faura just can’t seem to fi nd a the issue was, notwithstanding against the Philippines and other ing hand to a healing place. lets. Within seconds, Mylene lay suitable replacement for him. China’s comical argument for claimant nations. The contrast How many other Mylenes bleeding, killed by a Sheriff’s The Department of Foreign claiming nearly all of the South is nowhere more evident – the are out there, we wonder, pre- deputy who was totally oblivi- Affairs even created an offi ce China Sea on the basis of folk- Philippines relying on interna- tending everything is fi ne, smil- ous to what was going on in her just for him – Bensurto is Secre- loric and ancient maps. tional convention and univer- ing even, yet grasping at straws tary General of the Commission The basis of China’s claim mind. sally accepted norms of conduct, and struggling to cope? While on Maritime and Ocean Affairs is absurd and incredulous – but What made him think the and China on naked, unabashed everything else around them and reports directly to Foreign that is irrelevant because they tiny woman – “barely fi ve feet force and intimidation. Which buzzes with the normal rituals Affairs Secretary Albert del have a powerful navy that’s able tall and not much more than will prevail? and rhythms of shopping and Rosario. to bully competing claimants – 100 pounds” – who was cut- As we write this column, ting pizza pieces with a knife surviving, the Mylenes of this He delivered to a roomful which offered a good segue to preparations are underway to could possibly harm him that he world seethe inside, tortured of Fil-Am community leaders a Dela Salle University Professor give a rousing send-off for the had to resort to lethal force and and tormented, screams muted, thorough and insightful brief- Renato de Castro, fresh from BRP Ramon Alcaraz, the 2nd claim self defense? One customer silenced by the shame of know- ing on the theoretical and prac- the 3rd annual Center for Strate- Hamilton-class cutter turned even said Mylene was “nice ing that something’s horribly tical foundations of the Philip- gic International Studies (CSIS) over by the US Coast Guard to and polite.” She may have even wrong and they couldn’t make pine claim on the various land South China Sea conference here smiled. Continued on page 31 features in the West Philippine in DC. Continued on page 31 3030 June 15, 2013 Immigration Notes By J.G. Azarcon, Esq. VISA PRIORITY DATES FOR THE PHILIPPINES MAY 2013

Hope for • FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCES First: Unmarried sons/daughters the undocu- of US citizens Jan. 01, 2000 Second: mented A: Spouses/minor children of lthough there appears permanent residents: Jun. 08, 2011 to be a consensus to do B: Unmarried sons/daughters 21 years Asomething about reform- of age or older of permanent residents Nov. 01, 2002 ing the current immigration Third: Married sons/daughters of citizens Nov. 15, 1992 PH beats all Asian economies system, including addressing the MANILA He’s been a political operator undeniable presence of millions Fourth: Brothers/sisters of citizens Nov. 08, 1989 he good news here is that since the mid-1980s when the of aliens without lawful status, • EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES the Philippine economy battle to topple then dictator it is premature for those who First: Priority workers Current Tgrew by 7.8 percent in the Ferdinand Marcos came to full could benefi t from a new law to Second: Professionals holding advanced fi rst quarter of 2013, besting all throttle. Binay was one of the celebrate. The bipartisan work degrees or persons of exceptional ability Current other Asian nations, including young upstarts who gravitated product of the so-called Gang of sizzling-hot China. It’s also the toward Cory Aquino, who was Eight Republican and Democrat Third: Skilled workers, professionals Sep. 22, 2006 highest growth rate in President seen then as the only national senators is now going through Other Workers Sep. 22, 2006 Benigno Aquino III’s tenure. fi gure who could rally the people a gauntlet of proposed amend- Fourth: Current Manufacturing and the con- against Marcos (which she did, ments. It is still uncertain what Certain Religious Workers Current will come out of the congressio- struction sector led the way in becoming president in 1986). Fifth: Employment creation/ the unprecedented growth. Gov- Being politicaly astute, Binay is nal debates. ernment and consumer spending nursing his current popularity What’s in it for the undocu- (Million or half-million dollar investor) Current also helped. and hopes to ride the tide toward mented aliens? revoked and may be extended in the U.S may travel and return Behind the Philippines a presidential victory in 2016. The proposed bill creates a for additional six years if the without a visa provided that the were China, which grew by 7,7 Mr. Aquino (PNoy to the new category for certain aliens alien satisfi es any applicable trip is not more than 180 days. percent, Indonesia 6 percent, media, Noynoy to his family) who are currently unlawfully federal tax liability and demon- Who are eligible to apply? Thailand 5.3 percent, and Viet- will not be anointing Binay as present and who entered the strates regular employment and The alien must be physi- nam 4.9 percent. his presidential bet in 2016. His U.S. before December 31, 2011, to is not likely to become a public Mr. Aquino has been on anointed will be former senator adjust status to that of Registered cally present in the US on the a roll lately. In the May 13 elec- and currently interior secretary Provisional Immigrant (RPI). charge and generates income not date the application is submitted tions, nine of his candidates Mar Roxas, who gave way so Dependent spouses and chil- less than 100% of the poverty and must be physically present for senator won, trumping the Aquino could run for president dren of RPIs may apply if they level. Exempted from the income on or before December 31, 2011 opposition, which only won in 2010. are physically present in the U.S. requirement are aliens under 21 and maintain continuous physi- three senate seats. Although the But 2016 is an eternity away. on the date RPI status is granted years of age at the time of the cal presence from December 31, results in the local contests (for What happens between now and and on or before December 30, fi rst extension, those over sixty 2011 until RPI status is granted. congressmen, governor, mayor then will have a tremendous 2012. on the date of fi ling, RPI depen- There are bars to eligibil- The initial duration of the dents and those with disability. and town/city councils) were impact on who between Roxas Continued on page 31 mixed for the President, winning and Binay will become president. RPI status is for six years unless RPIs are authorized to work the senate was crucial for him The current orthodoxy says that because the positive outcome Binay has front-runner status. will help him control the national But that’s just it: front-runner, Beyond the agenda for the next three years not a cinch. until he steps down in 2016. The recent good news Deadwood Naturally, the President (which also includes improved he secret is “busting out all and his team were elated by the marks from global economic over”, as a 1956 Broadway election outcome, which blunted rating agencies) gives Aquino tune puts it. The Vatican the high popularity of the vice a fi rmer handle on things. The T isn’t talking. Neither is the Cath- president, Jojo Binay, who has challenge to him and his admin- olic Bishops Conference of the announced that he will run istration is how to keep coming Philippines . for president in 2016. Binay, a up with positive results, enough Pope Francis will fl y here long-time ally of the President’s for the people to appreciate and make the Pope’s visit to the Phil- red shoes handcrafted by the early January 2016. He’ll attend mother, the late former President to give their blessings when the ippines a priority,” . papal cobbler. “Wear them if you the 51st International Eucharis- Cory Aquino, has placed himself time comes to vote for Aquino’s Barely two months into want, Monsignor,” he said. “But tic Congress in Cebu City. Pope with political opponents of Mr. successor in 2016. offi ce, “Francis already has the carnival is over.” Paul VI came in November 1970 Aquino. Part of the challenge is how changed the tone of the papacy” In Buenos Aires , then Car- In a disingenuous fashion, to silence the usual critics who --- and a Bolivian psycho tried to , New York Times notes. The dinal Borgolio turned over his Binay has been talking from both always see the glass as half- stab him. Pope John Paul II vis- shift does not stem from con- sprawling residence for nuns empty instead of half-full. As is sides of his mouth, in one breath ited in 1981 and 1985. crete changes or setting an ambi- to use as a hospice. Instead, he their usual wont, the naysayers saying he’s not in opposition Could the Philippine meet- tious policy agenda. Rather, they lived in a two door apartment here threw cold water on the against Aquino, but in another ing be moved up from May fl ow from “Francis’ emphasis on and took the bus to work. “Are Aquino administration’s party campaigned for candidates 2016, dates set in Dublin, asked attention to the poor. ( His ) style a few simple gestures such a big mood over the 7.8 percent fi rst- who have been critical of the Archbishop Piero Marini. He is more akin to that of a parish deal?”, quarter economic growth. But President. Obviously, Binay is heads the pontifi cal committee priest, albeit one with one billion Francis reaches people the growth hasn’t reached the walking a tightrope because the on International Eucharistic Con- parishioners” whether discussing his grand- poor, they snorted. President is very popular (Binay gresses. The Pope traditionally He still refuses to live in mother to his decision to become Of course, they’re right, the gets slightly higher popularity attends World Youth Day, just papal apartments. “There’s a priest, Reuters reports. “While economic growth hasn’t fully poll numbers than Aquino) and after May, The CBCP thus reset enough room there for 300 praying before going to bed, I benefi ted everyone in the coun- he doesn’t want to alienate the the Congress to January 25 to people,” he said. He lodges in doze off from fatigue . but ( God try, for that takes time. And President’s political base. 31, 2016.. That comes after Cebu the spartan Casa Santa Marta ) understands.” they’re right to point that out. But, because he’s also pop- marks the annual Santo Nino “If we step outside of our- But their way of challenging the residence inside the Vatican. ular, Binay has peeked into the festival. Aquino administration is too There, he eats dinner in the com- selves, we will fi nd poverty,” horizon and it looks bright, his “The Philippines may be negative. Why not congratu- pany of lower-ranking priests Do more. “Seek out those on the prospects of winning the presi- on Pope Francis’ travel itinerary late the administration for its and visitors. fringes of society who need help dency are good, and feat and then challenge it to do in 2016,” said Cebu Archbishop Simplicity cuts thru institu- the most,” he said Today, the he’s playing his cards rather better, instead of dismissing the Jose Palma, who heads CBCP. tional deadwood. That didn’t news is scandals, but the many carefully. “We told ( Rome ) that January start after Francis election. He children who don’t have food --- In this sense, Binay is savvy. Continued on page 31 was fi ne. Our suggestion was to put aside the ermine cape and that’s not news. June 15, 2013 31 from page 29 (from Arabic to English script) Mylene... from page 29 Courage essential... and repeated blunders have left the Philippines, as it leaves South told us the Philippines could not the heirs of the Sulu sultanate it right. Maybe if she was assured she Carolina for the long voyage to verify the report because China impoverished today. Until they snap. Like the could hug her kids again, she’d Manila via the Panama Canal. has imposed a 15-kilometer- The share of territory is grandma who killed her grand be in a different place, where radius “virtual fence” that pre- Her sister ship, the BRP linked to a formula that estab- daughter. Like the teacher who there’s forgiveness, compassion Gregorio del Pilar, now the Phil- vents Philippine ships or planes lished how much each branch of hang herself. Like the teenage and grace. ippine Navy fl agship, sparked from going to the area. the royal family should get from son who put a bullet through his The English poet, John the Scarborough Shoal last year Well, the Philippine Navy the 5,000 ringgit (about P77,000) head. And now this, a 38-year- Donne, wrote that no one is an when it tried to arrest Chinese can if they wanted to but that paid annually under the terms of old mother they fondly called island, that each person’s death fi shermen caught in fl agrante would risk a dangerous confron- the 1878 “lease” or “cede” (that Mhai, who brought two beauti- diminishes us, for we are all part harvesting protected marine spe- tation and after the deadly fl are- is the dispute with translation) ful daughters out of her womb, cies. Within hours, the solitary up with Taiwan, Malacanang with the defunct British North nurtured them for as long as she of humanity. “Therefore,” the Del Pilar was surrounded by sev- obviously has no appetite for Borneo Company. The branch could. poem goes, “send not to know eral Chinese civilian maritime picking another fi ght. It has now led by the ailing Jamalul Was it too late to save for whom the bell tolls. enforcement ships. The Philip- instead asked Filipino fi shermen Kiram III has one of the minor Mylene the day she showed up It tolls for thee.” pines was compelled to send a to avoid Scarborough Shoal until shares. for work, handing out pizza Send your comments to smaller Coast Guard vessel to the government can resolve the Dr. Rasul stressed that the samples and talking to herself? [email protected] keep the confrontation “civil- impasse although it offered no history of Muslim Mindanao is ian” but this too was pulled out timetable or alternative for Fili- an integral part of the Filipino Life or death... from page 29 after a supposed agreement for pino fi shermen who’re report- heritage (although he contends both sides to withdraw its ships. edly losing half a million pesos a that the Sultanate erred in sur- gious fanatics more than a month The public must feel con- China reneged on the deal and month in lost income. rendering its claim to the Philip- ago is an excellent demonstra- fi dent that in times of peril, has since barred Filipino fi sher- Dr. Rasul, on the other pine government). tion of skillful police action. The agents of the government would men from the shoal. hand, provided an interesting A total of 68 people – most of responding police offi cers were respond promptly to ensure and sometimes amusing per- There are unconfi rmed them Filipino followers of Jam- confronted on the scene of the their safety. But for the public reports China was building a personal account of how the Philip- alul III were killed in the 3-week crime by two men brandishing to feel that they have a friend manent structure similar to what pine claim to Sabah came about. standoff in Lahad Datu, Sabah. It butcher knives and a gun while inside that police uniform, the it did in Mischief Reef, hundreds A preoccupation with pearls, a was a tragic misadventure that police should rid its ranks of trig- of miles to the south near the misunderstanding about how got little or no sympathy from standing by close to a dismem- Palawan coastline. One offi cial one word should be translated the leadership in Manila. bered body. The police offi cers ger happy gunslingers who do shot the suspects who survived not have the good sense and the PH beats all Asian... from page 30 jobless rate). and were both taken alive. good shot to preserve life. So, it’s worth remember- growth as not reaching all? It’s regular destination for climatic ing that there’s still two-and- Hope for the... from page 30 still growth, after all. disturbances and other natural one-third quarters on the 2013 ity. Felony conviction and three Adjustment to lawful per- Politicians and their opera- calamities such as typhoons and calendar and the government or more misdemeanors, foreign tives who have an agenda that fl ooding that wreak havoc on must ensure that all cylinders manent residence status for RPIs infrastructure, crops and private offenses that would render the is in are working to enable the coun- is not automatic. They can only confl ict with Mr. Aquino’s property. Such destruction, in person inadmissible or deport- try to fi nish the year with a high apply for green card status after (like a Binay presidency in 2016) turn, has a tremendous impact able if committed in the U.S., annual growth rate. It’s in Mr. the Secretary of State certifi es that have been working to under- on the overall economy. terrorism and unlawful voting immigrant visas have become mine Aquino’s performance and So, the phenomenal Aquino’s interest to keep whip- will disqualify the alien. Aliens available for all approved peti- popularity. That is evident in, growth in one quarter could be ping up his men and women in with three or four misdemeanors for example, letters to newspa- wiped out if disasters come and the Cabinet in order to maintain can apply for waiver based on tions that were fi led before the per editors that always present visit the country and sow mas- high productivity. humanitarian ground to ensure date of enactment of the reform a dim view of the President’s sive destruction. Aquino is not yet on a family unity or if it is in the law. In other words, they cannot actions. But they remain a small Overall, the Philippine legacy mode -- meaning, work- public interest. jump ahead of the line. They still minority, as shown by surveys economy is expected to grow ing on earning a good place for To obtain RPI status, the have to meet certain require- that show Aquino as still very this year by six to seven per- himself in history. That will alien must fi le an application ments, including paying all tax popular. cent, which would still be a great within one year from the date of come in the homestretch of his liability, continuous employ- Expect the demolition work accomplishment. term. What he needs to do at the publication of the fi nal rule ment, knowledge of English and of those opposed to him to esca- But poverty is still wide- this time is to ensure positive in the Federal Register, satisfy all civics, proof of selective service late in the near future and espe- spread, and the government will economic growth, no major scan- tax liabilities and pay a fi ling fee registration and meeting cer- cially in the two years preceding have to stimulate further invest- dals, better handling of emer- and penalty of $1,000.00. the 2016 presidential election. ments into the economy, more tain criteria in the merit-based gencies (like the unfortunate Can RPIs become perma- Meantime, Aquino has got government and private-sector mishandling of a hostage-taking nent residents? system for immigrant visas. his work cut out for him: how to spending in infrastructure, more of Hongkong tourists in his fi rst consolidate his successes so far money-churning activity like and would-bes, to explore the language that has close relations and continue to build on them. tourism, increased productivity year in offi ce), and the percep- unlimited boundaries of Eng- with the country’s history. We It’s important to clarify that in manufacturing, higher agri- tion that every one of his people, lish usage. Headline writers and all want to be known and rec- the 7.8 percent growth is only for cultural output (which has been including him, is hard at work to copy editors of national and local ognized as Filipinos or Filipino- the fi rst quarter of 2013. So many very low in recent years), as improve the lives of the people. newspapers in the Philippines descendants whenever we travel things could happen between well as more consumer spend- The people expect him to be suc- are the known culprits in this outside the island conclaves, and now and year-end to demolish ing (which, ironically, has been cessful in at least the last of the cultural travesty. First, they used we all want to receive effective “RP” to mean the Republic of the such gain.The Philippines is a relatively robust despite a high preceding enumeration. responses to our offi cial corre- Philippines, then they switched spondence, messages not written of the American educators and to “PH” or “Ph,” and later on to in codes but in the use of words On Our Own Coded... from page 25 teachers aboard the USS Thomas “Php” which also means the des- acceptable as duly representa- ignation of the country’s money in the early 1900s was part of a tives of our personal goals and and highly-fi nanced group of was a spillover of college stu- currency. The word “pinoy” was US policy to educate the Fili- aims. manufacturers and peddlers of dent gangs, exclusive clubs, the reluctantly incorporated into pinos on the western values Of course, “pinoy” is an illicit drugs in the Greater Met- use of aliases, and associations the bodies of news stories about and ways of thinking. Long affectation…between and among ropolitan Manila area. The ille- of students whose purpose was 15 years ago. Constant usage before their arrival, the country gal group was discovered by the outside the exemplary goals of through the years has legiti- friends, relatives, compatri- police reporter Rod Reyes of the sanctioned university and col- had already an existing body of mized its use in by writers and ots, and those who we call “the then Manila Times when Reyes lege fraternities and sororities. literature, both oral and written. editors in headlines, sub-head- natives.” But “pinoy”is claimed had broken the coded word, The word “pinoy” is a lazy Accomplished writers in Span- lines, even in what they term by some to have had its historical chokaran, which when the syl- man’s play on the word, Filipino. ish and few dialects and artists “the hammer.” Now, they are and cultural connections. Really? lables are transposed, spelled Even if it is taken as an idiom, it in different media were already even using “PNoy.” And we all “Pinoy”… use it or lose it! karancho. The word referred to does not have any core. It has no recognized. The imposition of know who that is. (NOTE: This column made its those individuals working inside linguistic value because it does the “Thomasites” into the Filipi- The richness of a nation’s last appearance in October 1999. and for the “ranch.” The expose not refl ect any point of contact nos’ cultural life did not include culture and the quality of life The long hibernation in the dark gained national recognition and with any period in the history creative writings. And this in the lived by her citizens and descen- cave is over, waking up to face the fame. What followed thereafter of the Philippines. The arrival long run, propelled writers, legit dants are shaped by the use of a warmth of the sun) 32 June 15, 2013