september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 1
♦♦ SEPTEMBER FEBRUARY 19,21, 2011 2013 ♦ ♦
OPINION LEGAL NOTES MAINLAND NEWS Filipinos slaves adjustment oF status obama to visit Have a CHanCe Granted despite manila next For Freedom Gap in lawFul status montH
PRESORTED HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE STANDARD 94-356 WAIPAHU DEPOT RD., 2ND FLR. U.S. POSTAGE WAIPAHU, HI 96797 PAID HONOLULU, HI PERMIT NO. 9661 2 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle september 21, 2013 EDITORIALS FROM THE PUBLISHER Publisher & Executive Editor an you believe we’ve already Charlie Y. Sonido, M.D. Alfredo Galvez: Rising reached the ‘Ber months? In the Publisher & Managing Editor Philippines, the four “Ber” Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Star in the Scientific months (September, October, November and December) can Associate Editors Dennis Galolo Community C mean only one thing—Christ- Edwin Quinabo ilipinos love stars, whether it be in the movies, sports mas is just around the corner! Creative Designer or other entertainment industry. As far as the scien- This latest issue of the Hawaii Filipino Junggoi Peralta tific world is concerned, there is perhaps no bigger Chronicle contains our special 16-page supplement on Women’s Design Consultant name at present than Dr. Alfredo Galvez. Health. The thought-provoking and informative stories in this Randall Shiroma Galvez is an award-winning scientific researcher special supplement were written by physicians and are sure to en- F Photography who discovered the natural peptide Lunasin that lighten and encourage you to take better care of yourself. If you’re Tim Llena blocks cancer cells. Lunasin has the ability to essentially turn inspired to take ownership of your health, we encourage you to Administrative Assistant “off” the bad genes and turn “on” the good genes in the body. start by reading “Undetected Diabetes in Hawaii” by Dr. Michael Shalimar Pagulayan This impressive natural peptide, found in miniscule quantities in Bennett on page S-8 in our special supplement. According to sta- Columnists soybeans, blocks cell division and effectively turns down the dim- tistics from the State Department of Health, diabetes affects about Carlota Hufana Ader mer switch in our genetic material. In other words, it makes cells 100,000 people in Hawaii, many of whom are Filipinos. Please Sen. Will Espero less receptive to disease. Further studies on the effects of Lunasin also take some time to read the other articles of interest that our Grace F. Fong, Ed.D showed that the soy peptide had a powerful mechanism of ac- staff and participating physicians have worked hard to write and Emil Guillermo Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. tion—lowering cholesterol levels and improving general cellular compile. You’ll be glad you did! Ron Menor health. LunaRich was developed as the first soy powder to fully Our cover story on world-renowned Filipino scientific re- J.P. Orias harness the power of Galvez’s amazing discovery—with more searcher Dr. Alfredo Galvez complements our special Women’s Pacita Saludes Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. than five times the amount of Lunasin found in ordinary soy pow- Health supplement. His groundbreaking research on a soy peptide Charlie Sonido, M.D. ders. called Lunasin has been shown to enhance innate immunity—the Emmanuel S. Tipon, Esq. Galvez is considered the pioneer in the field of epigenetics, a ability of the body to resist damaging effects from chemical, bac- Felino S. Tubera rapidly growing research field that investigates heritable alter- terial and viral toxins, and promote optimal health. Studies have Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. ations in gene expression caused by mechanisms other than shown that Lunasin can also reduce the production of bad cho- Contributing Writers changes in DNA sequence. Epigenetics is a very new field of sci- lesterol in the liver, prevent cancer and other serious diseases, and Belinda Aquino, Ph.D. ence, having been accepted into the mainstream by the scientific has anti-inflammatory effects as well as antioxidant benefits. In Clement Bautista establishment in late 2012. case you didn’t know, Dr. Galvez held a free seminar for the pub- Teresita Bernales, Ed.D Jorge Camara, M.D. Galvez’s finding is a game changer in the areas of disease lic at the FilCom Center on September 21st. For more information Serafin Colmenares, Jr., Ph.D. control and nutritional health. To date, over 50 published papers on Lunasin, call 1-800-933-3817. As an interesting sidenote, the Linda Dela Cruz from more than 25 research institutions have documented Lu- Chronicle’s contributing writer Dr. Belinda Aquino is a distant Fiedes Doctor Danny De Gracia, II, MA nasin’s multiple health benefits. Its enormous potential has relative of Dr. Galvez. Both grew up in the small town of San Carolyn Weygan-Hildebrand opened the door to a broad range of dramatic health benefits. Fernando, La Union, in the Ilocos region. On page 5, Dr. Aquino Amelia Jacang, M.D. We congratulate Galvez on his accomplishments and take provides a brief, albeit interesting, glimpse into how she is related Caroline Julian Maita Milallos great pride knowing that one of our very own has made such a to the renowned researcher. Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D. remarkable breakthrough in our health and well-being. It’s good In other news, you may have heard that the City has restarted Glenn Wakai news such as this that make Filipino-Americans everywhere stand construction on the rail transit project, which has sat idle for the Amado Yoro up and take great pride in being pinoy. last 13 months or so, costing taxpayers some $200,000 for each Philippine Correspondent Greg Garcia day of delay. Now that construction is once again ramping up, a portion of Farrington Highway between Kualakai Parkway and Big Island Distributor Grace Larson Pork Barrel Scam Shames Old Fort Weaver Road Loop will be closed through March 2014 Ditas Udani for work related to the rail project. Maui Distributor Philippine Politicians Lastly, we have received many positive comments on our last Cecile Piros ust when it seemed that the Philippines had seem- issue, which we dedicated to the memory of the late Dr. Jorge Ca- Molokai Distributor ingly turned the corner on corruption and graft, mara. Mahalo to all of you who have kept his surviving family Maria Watanabe news of the latest scam involving government of- members in your thoughts and prayers and for helping them Advertising/Marketing Director ficials left many Filipinos shaking their heads. through this very difficult period. Chona A. Montesines-Sonido At issue are congressional “pork barrel” funds In closing, thank you for faithfully supporting the Hawaii Fil- Account Executives J Carlota Hufana Ader amounting to 10 billion pesos (roughly $226 mil- ipino Chronicle. As always, we invite our readers to contact us J.P. Orias lion) which ended up in bogus non-government organizations, at: [email protected] if you have story ideas, tips or The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is published with lawmakers’ blessings. The funds are essentially discre- concerns regarding Hawaii’s dynamic and vibrant Filipino com- weekly by The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. tionary annual lump sums of $4.5 million and $1.6 million pro- munity. It is mailed directly to subscribers and dis- tributed at various outlets around Oahu and vided to each of the country’s 24 senators and 289 congressional Until next time…aloha and mabuhay! the neighbor islands. Editorial and advertis- members to pay for local infrastructure and development projects. ing deadlines are three weeks prior to pub- lication date. Subscriptions are available at In reality, the money is a slush fund to ensure political patronage $75 per year for Oahu and the neighbor is- lands, continental U.S. $80, foreign country and successful re-election campaigns. $90. Copyright 2006-2012. The Hawaii Fil- The alleged mastermind behind the pork barrel scam is busi- ident has repeatedly stated for the record that “good governance ipino Chronicle Inc. is located at 94-356 Waipahu Depot, Waipahu, HI 96797. Tele- nesswoman Janet Lim Napoles, who reportedly took a cut of 30 equals good economics.” He believes that good governance di- phone (808) 678-8930 Facsimile (808) 678- percent and delivered the bulk of the money back to politicians. rectly correlates to economic growth, attracting foreign invest- 1829. E-mail [email protected]. Website: www.thefilipinochronicle.com. She is suspected of owning some 28 houses, dozens of vehicles ments and alleviating the crushing burden of poverty. Opinions expressed by the columnists and contributors do not necessarily reflect those and 400 different accounts at 17 banks. Napoles has since turned Meanwhile, public support continues to mount for the abol- of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle manage- herself in to the authorities. ishment of the pork barrel, which is officially referred to as the ment. Reproduction of the contents in whole or in part is prohibited without written per- The Aquino administration has vowed a full investigation into Priority Development Assistance Fund. Several rallies have al- mission from the management. All rights re- the scam which is threatening to overshadow the positive economic ready been held that drew tens of thousands of protestors, many served. Printed in the U.S.A. www.thefilipinochronicle.com gains enjoyed by the Philippines, due to its booming economy. Ob- wearing pig masks. The largest rally, held at historic Rizal Park www.efilipinochronicle.com servers say that the way that President Aquino handles the pork in Manila on August 26, was dubbed the Million People March. MeMber, Society of ProfeSSional barrel issue will test his commitment to good governance. The pres- (continued on page 3) JournaliStS september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 3 OPINION Filipinos Slaves Have a Chance for Freedom
NO LIMITATION pagpag food; One third of our places in the world demanding By Ted Laguatan people going to bed hungry at for the abolition of the Pork night; Sick people dying be- Barrel system. ll Filipinos are cause of not having medicines; President Benigno Simeon slaves including Children with educations stop- Aquino first declared that he the well to do. We ping at grade six because of did not support the call for are slaves to the limited funds; Millions living abolition, citing the good in- A all-pervading in- in subhuman squalid slums; tention behind the Pork Barrel stitutionalized Substandard eroding roads, system. He recanted when he corruption in the Philippine dangerous bridges and other perceived that the fast escalat- government that permeates all infrastructures; Inferior gov- ing intense anger of millions facets of our lives. Even Fil- ernment services… of Filipinos could translate to ipinos working and living Thousands of our people irreversible anger against him. abroad are slaves. They bear are separated from their chil- Just before the massive rally in the burden and shame of com- dren and spouses, going to pines will result from the signed one billion pesos (25 Luneta Park calling for the ing from a country with a rep- distant extremely cold or hot elimination of widespread cul- million dollars) to these fake abolition of the Pork Barrel utation of being poor, weak lands with strange cultures – tural institutionalized govern- NGOs. Marcos and Enrile system, Aquino announced and corrupt. braving loneliness and all ment corruption. each assigned over five hun- that he would accede to the And like the hard earned kinds of unknown dangers – to A recent series of Inquirer dred million. The others also people’s demands. money of their fellow Fil- work in difficult jobs in order articles exposed prominent assigned enormous sums. Understandably, people ipinos in the homeland, a sig- to support their families. Senators and other elected and Commission on Audit are asking: How did this hap- nificant amount of the billions Widespread government cor- appointed officials who were Chairperson Grace Pulido Tan pen under the watch of a Pres- of dollars they send to their ruption indirectly causes this engaged in a systematic indicated that other Senators ident whose platform is based relatives back home – will find phenomenon. scheme of massively stealing and numerous Congressmen, on anti-corruption? their way to the pockets of Like many, I cry when I billions of public tax money mayors and other elected and I don’t think that neither corrupt dishonest officials and see so many of these terrible funds allocated to them under appointed officials – were in- Aquino nor his Budget Secre- other personnel in all branches sufferings. I cry especially for the so called Pork Barrel sys- volved in the massive Pork tary Butch Abad is corrupt. and all levels of the Philippine those innocent talented chil- tem. These funds were meant Barrel scam engineered by But I believe that since both government: bureaucracy dren condemned to lives with- to benefit people. Napoles. Tan outlined and are intelligent and have exten- clerks; traffic policemen; out decent futures who could The senators and other of- gave details on how the scam sive experience in Congress palengke kubradors; tax col- have contributed so much to ficials funneled these moneys worked. Conceivably, there and wide exposure to govern- lectors; customs people; humanity in the arts, sciences, back to their pockets using might also be similar scams ment matters, they and others restaurant inspectors; immi- philosophy and the humanities. straw non-government organ- involving bogus NGOs in the Aquino Administration gration officials: court person- Those thieving politicians and izations (NGOs) with bogus formed by other Napoles-like had a sense or even knew ex- nel; authorities involved in the officials cannot escape from projects. The scheme was de- scammers. actly about the mechanics of licensing or registration of ve- their responsibility in con- signed by a Janet Lim Napoles Understandably, Filipinos the massive Pork Barrel cor- hicles, businesses, land titles, tributing to these sufferings and who structured the fake all over the world are furiously ruption that was happening. etc ; and super greedy Sena- wastage of human potential. NGOs. She is now in custody angry with these massive But I think that like so tors, Congressmen and judges. Woe unto you. May God have and detained in jail awaiting thefts of the people’s money. many, they also must have felt Filipinos have continually mercy on your dark souls. prosecution. They held mass demonstra- trapped in this culture of mass been slaves to government If we have an honest effi- The Senators named in the tions in Manila and other (continued on page 6) corruption for so long now. cient government, we could report have reputations of al- The terrible resultant effects of develop various industries that ready being very rich: Juan this slavery are seen every- would provide good paying Ponce Enrile, Bong Revilla, where in the Philippines: Chil- jobs so that our people do not Bongbong Marcos, Vic Sotto, dren digging into smelly have to leave. A progressive Gringo Honasan, Lito Lapid. garbage cans for scraps of economically vibrant Philip- Revilla alone reportedly as-
(from page 2, A COLLEGE....) EDITORIALS which will in all likelihood This was followed by the it has a sizable discretionary prove troublesome and take EDSA Tayo prayer vigil on budget for calamity relief and years to reach the courtroom. September 11 and the mobi- other measures. Second, ensure Nevertheless, prosecuting and lization of several groups in greater transparency on behalf punishing those involved in the Luneta on September 13. An- of the people by requiring pork barrel scam would earn other demonstration is planned politicians to disclose in detail Aquino even greater public trust for October 25. where their discretionary funds and admiration. If he wants to The way we see it, there are being spent on. finish his term on a good note are two options for the presi- The bottom line is that such and further cement his legacy, he dent with respect to pork barrel corruption can no longer be tol- should do something to appease funds. First, abolish the prac- erated in a nation like the Philip-the scores of angry citizens. We tice, which would likely face pines, where 80 percent of the hope these citizens’ collective opposition from certain people suffer from abject anger will ultimately help to re- branches of government. The poverty. We call on the presidentdefine Philippine politics and Office of the President itself to take action by pursuing legal end the cycle of vote buying and would not be exempted, since cases against the congressmen, corruption. 4 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle september 21, 2013 COVER STORY Filipino Scientist Reaps Rewards of Accidental Discovery By Chona Montesines-Sonido
hance favors the prepared mind.”—Louis “C Pasteur, French chemist and microbiologist Many of the great scien- the rubber was malleable research on the cancer inhibit- tific discoveries of the past enough to be usable. ing peptide and found that Lu- were found through sheer Goodyear patented his vulcan- nasin in its bioactive form had luck. ization process in 1844, long the ability to essentially turn Take for instance, the dis- before the age of automobiles. “off” the bad genes and turn covery of penicillin, one of the Years later, in 1898, the on the “good” genes in our most famous and fortunate ac- founders of the Goodyear Tire bodies. In other words, Lu- cidents of the 20th century. As & Rubber Company named it nasin, which is found in minis- the story goes, Scottish re- after the man who made their cule quantities in soybeans, searcher Sir Alexander Flem- business possible. makes cells less receptive to ing forgot to clean up his Such “happy accidents” disease. workstation before leaving for are continuing and will likely Galvez’s findings were vacation back in 1928. When continue into the future. A published in the Journal of he returned, he noticed that a more recent discovery oc- Cancer Research and other Filipino research geneticist Dr. Alfredo Galvez mold in a discarded petri dish curred in 1996 when Filipino prestigious journals. A recent (which he identified as Peni- research geneticist Dr. Alfredo analysis in Cancer Metastasis edited for space and clarity. Q: Where did you receive cillium notatum) was growing Galvez discovered an extraor- Reviews noted that Lunasin is Q: Do you come from a your degrees? in such a way that it dissolved dinary plant peptide as an ac- active against human breast family of scientists? What A: I received my B.S. in all the bacteria around it. Peni- cidental by-product of the cancer, colon cancer and jobs did your parents hold? plant physiology and genetics cillin was introduced a few cloning work conducted in a leukemia cells in the labora- A: I grew up and went to from UPLB; my M.S. in ge- years later, opening up the era gene cloning laboratory at the tory. In a mouse study, injec- school (elementary and high netics and plant breeding from of antibiotics. University of California- tion of Lunasin into mice school) in San Fernando, La UPLB, and my PhD in plant In another case of a Berkeley. He named the by- implanted with human breast Union. My father was a sugar- physiology and genetics from “happy accident,” Charles product Lunasin—Tagalog for cancer cells reduced tumor in- cane and rice breeder and has the University of California- Goodyear discovered vulcan- “heal” or “remedy”—which cidence by 33 percent to 49 a Master's degree in Plant Davis. ized rubber when he spilled a was shown to disrupt cancer percent. Breeding from the University Q: How did you arrive in mixture of rubber, sulfur and cell division and prevent Galvez discovered that for of the Philippines-Los Banos the U.S.? lead onto a hot stove. The mix- tumor formation. Lunasin to work, it must be (UPLB). My mother was a A: While working as a ture charred and hardened, but Galvez conducted further bioactive. He developed a housewife. plant breeder at UPLB, a U.S. means of protecting the pep- Q: Who did you look up agri-tech company offered me tide by using a shepherd mol- to when you were growing a scholarship where I got my ecule that guides Lunasin up? PhD in genetics and molecular through the body, allowing it A: I was fascinated by the biology. to be absorbed along the way. life and novels of the Philip- Q: Explain the signifi- Galvez sees new applica- pines’ national hero, Jose cance of your discovery of tions for Lunasin as studies are Rizal. anti-cancer properties in soy. being done on an on-going Q: How did you become A: I discovered the anti- basis. His work has opened the interested in the field of ge- cancer properties of Lunasin door to a broad range of dra- netics? from soybean seeds by matic health benefits which he A: I was around 10 years serendipity, or by fortunate hopes to share with others. He old when my father attended mistake. From observing Lu- conducted a free seminar for UPLB for his Master’s degree nasin in the microscope, I was the public on September 21, in plant breeding. The most able to determine the mecha- 2013 at the FilCom Center, difficult class for him was ge- nism of how it blocked cancer where he discussed the life-al- netics. He had several books pathways and how it could tering effects of Lunasin and its on this subject. When I ran out provide a broad array of health impact on serious health issues. of my own books to read, I benefits. In addition to cancer, To find out more about his began reading his genetics it also has effects against heart ground-breaking research, the textbooks and was fascinated disease, and recently against Chronicle requested an exclu- with Gregor Mendel and how diabetes, obesity and meta- sive interview with Galvez, he discovered the principles of bolic syndrome. which he graciously granted. genetics from observing peas Q: Was the Philippines The following interview was in his garden. (continued on page 5) september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 5 COVER STORY (from page 4, FILIPINO ...) vates you to be a great genetic my daughter Katelyn. selected for clinical trials or researcher? Q: What are your future were they conducted in the A: It’s the knowledge that plans? U.S.? I can make an impact in A: We are going to con- A: The trials so far have changing the face of health tinue conducting multiple clin- all been conducted in the U.S. care through nutrition as an al- ical trials to determine the We have plans to conduct clin- ternative to drugs. I have seen effect of Lunasin by itself and ical trials also in the Philip- firsthand how cancer and can- in combination with other pines. In fact, I will be cer medicines can ravage the bioactive agents on chronic meeting with groups of Fil- human body when I first con- diseases. I am working with a ipino medical professionals ceptualized the anti-cancer U.S.-based company to get during my next visit to the properties of Lunasin in 1996. Lunasin to as many people as Philippines to discuss poten- This experience put into per- possible. We are making the tial clinical testing using Lu- spective the work I was doing, products available and afford- nasin supplements. and has ever since motivated able to all. I am going to con- Q: What has been the re- me to develop the Lunasin tinue my work on developing sponse to LunaRich? technology so it can provide mined that Lunasin is able to road that leads to the truth and therapeutic peptides and for- LunaRich is an exclusive health benefits to the people attach itself to the packaging to the ultimate reward and sat- mulaic compound combina- ingredient that optimizes bioac- who need them most. material of DNA and affect isfaction. tions. I also plan to write a tive Lunasin. The response has Q: For young Filipinos how genes are expressed. It Q: What position do you book on the discovery and been overwhelmingly positive. who aspire to enter the field took more than 10 years for currently hold? Please also health benefits of Lunasin. As The field of epigenetics and, of epigenetics, what advice this mechanism of genetic talk about your family. for the Philippines, I plan to therefore, LunaRich, is emerg- would you give them? control to be accepted and rec- A: I am presently a re- establish a feeding center to ing so in many ways but it is A: Epigenetics is a very ognized. Even now, more than search scientist at the Center of nourish impoverished children still a well-kept secret. We are new field of science, having 90 percent of research still em- Excellence for Nutritional Ge- in my hometown through the growing at mach speed as peo- been accepted into the main- phasizes the genetic causes of nomics at UC-Davis. I am also Reliv Kalogris Foundation and ple are realizing its effects on stream by the scientific estab- chronic diseases instead of the director of research for the to introduce soybean produc- the prevention of serious dis- lishment in September 2012. I epigenetics. In science and in Missouri Plant Science Center. tion to manufacture Lunasin- ease and its ability to block came up with the epigenetic life, it is often very difficult to I am married and live in North- enriched ingredients for the cancer pathways. mechanism of action of Lu- take the road less traveled, but ern California with my wife functional foods and dietary Q: What inspires or moti- nasin in 1998 after I deter- sometimes it is this arduous Winnie, my son William and supplement industries. Dr. Alfredo Galvez—the Pride of UP and the that he married Emeline Flo- But you don’t forget your rel- res, another relative of my atives because family ties re- Ilocos Region father who lived in our village main alive over time—even by Belinda A. Aquino, Ph.D. of lunasin peptide, which neighborhood. Emeline’s from a distance. may have possibilities in pre- mother and my mother used So when we were going ention the venting certain diseases, in- to go to the town market to- over the list of awardees for name “Dr. Al- cluding cancer. gether just about everyday to this year’s UPAAA conven- fredo Galvez” My involvement with Al- shop for the day’s food and tion, I was curious with one and it may not fredo’s career is as a fellow supplies. of the nominees, Dr. Alfredo ring a bell. But UP product and as a relative The Galvez family was a Galvez, a pioneering expert (continued on page
(from page 3, FILIPINOS...) elected and appointed officials officials on all levels including interest and the future of gen- Heaven destined you to be corruption – and thought that who are clearly screwing and especially those in the ju- erations of Filipinos compel President. I hope you under- there was little or nothing that them. diciary. Without honest you to be a strong moral stand the significance and they could do about it. Institu- We can positively channel judges, we can’t have an effec- leader. Weak leaders accom- depth of your destiny. You tionalized corruption in the the intense people power en- tive fair justice system. He can plish little or even cause harm. were meant to be a blessing to Philippines is like being ergy generated by this public intimidate and put in line As such, under the present the Filipino people and to caught in powerful rotating awareness and justifiable out- crooked judges or cause their facts, immediately arrest and make a difference in their swirling waters and no matter rage – towards forging a de- removal from office. jail all of these wrongdoers if lives. That time is now. You how hard one swims and tries termined national will to now Aquino also has the NBI you must. Include your friends will not have another chance to be free, it’s almost impossi- rid the Philippines of this ter- and the police forces under and allies who may also be to fulfill your destiny. Your ble to escape. rible evil once and for all. I be- him. He is Commander in wrongdoers to prove your sin- time as President is almost The culture of institution- lieve that with these recent Chief of the Armed Forces. He cerity. over. Throw caution to the alized corruption is well estab- developments, we now have a can form teams of competent Unlike the bastard dictator wind, fear not, do what’s right lished in Philippine society good opportunity to win our and honest investigators and Marcos who imprisoned his – and leave the results to God. and has been there for a rela- freedom and remove the en- prosecutors. What more does political enemies to retain his Together with millions of tively long time. The late slaving shackles of institu- he need? illegitimate power – your mo- Filipinos, I hope and pray, greedy and oppressive dictator tionalized corruption from our The people are virtually tive is pure. You will be doing that like Abraham Lincoln Ferdinand Marcos perfected people. crying out to him: “Hang those this to truly serve your people. who freed slaves in America, the technology of government It’s time for us to aggres- thieves.”; “Arrest and jail the You have enough evidence you will free our people from corruption and the model he sively end our slavery. More bastards.” and probable cause to legally the terrible slavery of institu- established continues on and than ever, President Aquino Some of these thieves and justify your actions. Sequester tionalized corruption. You will maybe even improved. Many must now prove to the Filipino bastards are very wealthy and their assets and properties. need unwavering commit- frustrated Filipinos feel help- people that he is sincere is his powerful. They were col- Force them to return their loot ment, courage, inner strength less about it and in their frus- promise to fight against cor- leagues and some were even to the people. Assemble a and spirituality – to success- tration have taken the attitude ruption and has the determi- friends of the President when team of idealistic brilliant fully carry out this mission. of “That’s just the way it is nation and courage to carry he was a Congressman and lawyers to help you. You can have all of these and no one can do anything through. The Filipino people then a Senator. The Filipino people will qualities if you will it and pray about it, so we’ll just have to unquestionably will give him Abraham Lincoln had the be together with you in this sa- hard. If you fail, you will only live with it.” full support. Right now, he can same problem when he was cred effort. We will be with have yourself to blame. And Can we ever escape from have these greedy dishonest pushing for the very difficult you to the end as long as you instead of your star burning this prison of institutionalized officials lined up and have task of getting legislation done do not betray us and crush our brighter and forever – it will corruption which enslaves all them shot or hanged on the that would free slaves. He had hopes to have a better life for burn out and you will be re- of us? nearest tree – and I have no friends and colleagues who our people and a better Philip- membered as a weak leader Here’s my take on this: doubt that the people will were opposed. But he knew pines – by abandoning us and who had all the chances to do God often does work in cheer. that ultimately, he had to be surrendering to the powerful good for his people but failed. strange ways. Because of the He need not do that. As true to his deepest sacred self evil forces of corruption. So take courage, fight evil extensive media revelations of President, he has in his control and do what was morally Mr. President, you are a with everything you have and the massive stealing of public all the weapons for the mass right. In revealing his child of destiny whom fate do good. You have everything funds by government officials, destruction of widespread thoughts, he said: destined to be President. to gain and nothing to lose if Filipinos all over the world government corruption. He “I am bound to live by the Events before and after your you do this – except maybe now have a more intense can push the Department of light that I have. I must stand birth over which you had no your own life. awareness of the scale of Justice and the Ombudsman’s with anybody that stands right, control mixed and combined I had the privilege of wrongdoing involved. They Office to aggressively move and stand with him while he is which aligned your stars - and being with your father a few are livid - furiously angry towards the successful prose- right, and part with him when all of these forces channeled days before he returned to the against these unconscionable cution of corrupt government he is wrong.” the path that led Benigno Philippines and to martyrdom. President Benigno Simeon Simeon Aquino to be Presi- I sensed from listening to him Aquino, as a citizen and as dent of the Philippines. that he was a man who had be- your proclaimed supposed Look back at some of the come very deeply spiritual – a boss, I am respectfully ad- events that shaped your des- man completely committed to dressing the following state- tiny: Your father Ninoy be- doing what is good and right. ments to you. I believe that coming a young popular He could no longer be bought, what I say here is what mil- reporter; marrying your intimidated or coerced in any lions of well-meaning Fil- mother Cory; becoming way, manner or form. And so, ipinos around the world would Mayor, governor and then like Lincoln, Jesus Christ and like to tell you. Senator; Unjustly imprisoned other martyrs – his enemies I understand the gravity of and isolated by Marcos for killed him. the challenge and the monu- eight years for his opposition Like other martyrs, your mental task that it is – for you to the dictatorship; Exiled and father’s sacrifices bore much to provide the leadership to rid then assassinated and becom- fruit and blessings in the lives our country of the institution- ing a martyr; Cory your of others. You and us all honor alized culture of corruption mother becomes president as a him by being true to the ideals permanently. But you and all result; Cory dying just before that he died for. of us together – now have that the last elections where mil- He truly believed that the rare opportunity – that once in lions expressed their sympathy Filipino is worth dying for. a lifetime chance to be able to triggering the call for her neo- San Francisco based atty. ted effect real changes that would phyte Senator son Noynoy to laGuatan is a human rights lawyer surely lead to a better life for run for President. You, Mr. and is also officially certified by the State Bar of California as an expert on our people. President then became Presi- Immigration Law. Email laguatan- Mr. President, the national dent. [email protected] Tel 650 991-1154. september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 7 IMMIGRATION GUIDE Pssst: Escape Deportation, Say “I’m by a man he met at a gay bar. was persecuted on account of Appeals (BIA) which reversed Gay” He never reported the attacks his membership in the social the IJ, holding that Dennis money, he was unable to find to the police because he feared group of homosexual Filipino failed to prove that the attacks a job in the Philippines on ac- the police would ridicule him. men, and would more likely rose to the level of past perse- count of his sexual orientation, The government lawyer than not suffer persecution if cution, the rape was a “crime By Atty. Emmanuel the police will not do anything did not present any evidence to he was removed to the Philip- of opportunity,” the record did Samonte Tipon to help gay men who report rebut the testimony. The lawyer pines. The IJ granted him not support the conclusion that airy tales can abuse, the government has could have called any Philip- withholding of removal, a re- the government would be un- come true failed or refused to protect gay pine consul or any Filipino to lief from deportation for aliens able or unwilling to protect It can happen to men. portray the true state of affairs who would be persecuted on him, and there was no evi- you.” He was teased and bullied in the Philippines. Or it could account of race, nationality, re- dence that he would face tor- –Frank Sinatra by his classmates for “being a have submitted the Philippine ligion, political opinion, or ture if he returned to the “F in Young at sissy”. When he was 8 he was country conditions report pub- membership in a particular so- Philippines. Heart sexually abused by a man lished by the State Department cial group if they returned to Dennis appealed to the hired by his grandparents to which does not support these their native country. Homo- Court of Appeals which re- Are gays being persecuted take him to school. At 16, he unfavorable stories. sexuals are a “particular social versed the BIA, holding that in the Philippines? Are the moved to Manila. He unsuc- The immigration judge group.” the BIA cannot engage in de Philippine police rounding up cessfully tried to find a job. At bought his story “hook, line, The government appealed novo review of findings of fact gays? Are gays unable to find 17 he was drugged and raped and sinker,” holding that he to the Board of Immigration (continued on page 9) jobs in the Philippines? Is the Philippine government unwill- ing or unable to protect gays? If you answered “No” to these questions, then you should be shocked by this case of a Filipino gay who escaped deportation because an Immi- gration Judge (IJ) determined that the answer is “Yes” to all these questions. Filipinos cheer at court de- cisions when kababayans emerge victorious. But we should jeer when it is achieved by distorting the Philippines’ image Dennis is a Filipino gay. He came to the United States in 1999. He overstayed his visa and started working. He became addicted to metham- phetamine. He was arrested several times for drug posses- sion. He was sentenced to one year in prison. He served 8 months. He was handed a No- tice to Appear in immigration court, charged with being re- movable because he over- stayed and was convicted of a controlled substance. He admitted the charges and applied for asylum, with- holding of removal and Con- vention Against Torture (CAT) relief because of his sexual orientation and HIV positive status. He claimed he was beaten and robbed 5 times in Manila after being targeted as a homosexual, he was ha- rassed by police officers while waiting for a bus because of his sexual orientation and threatened with arrest for loi- tering if he did not give them 8 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle september 21, 2013 CANDID PERSPECTIVES More on Miss America 2013: One Step Forward, Two Steps Back? Since the pageant began in Americas than there’s ever vote for natural beauty. And yet I doubt Martin Luther King 1921Miss America, has long been for Hispanic Americans. she said, she understood its use. would have responded to racial had an anti-diversity definition There has never been a She finished off her answer discrimination by getting his By Emil Guillermo of beauty. Latina winner --ever. saying: “I wouldn’t want to skin lightened. The prevailing American That makes 2013 quite a change someone’s looks. Be Where are the radical fem- hen I think of sense of beauty was too often diversity milestone — to see confident in who you are.” inists when you need one? beauty pag- limited to the blonde, blue- three Asian-Americans in the The feel good answer. And Chen was blocked in her eants, it’s hard eyed girl next door. top five. most political. In a room full of career by a Western sense of not recall Fil- Maybe a brunette. There was the eventual cosmetic manipulators, she beauty, and decided to go under ipino Ameri- But that’s never really ever winner, Miss New York, Nina walked a fine line in heels. the knife. W can beauty been true in Hawaii, and now, Davuluri, a 24-year-old Indian However, the Chen ques- Davuluri ‘s win became a queen Angela thanks to immigration, inter- America; the first runner-up tion gets to the real problem diversity milestone, but in a Baraquio. marriage, and a broader sense Crystal Lee from San Fran- when one considers the search venue as sexist as a beauty pag- In 2001 Baraquio made a of beauty, it’s not even true on cisco; and Minnesota’s Re- for beauty and what makes us eant. big breakthrough for all Asian the mainland. becca Yeh, fourth runner-up do the things we do? In the end, what do we Americans. The Miss Hawaii But it’s taken a while. It came down to Davuluri What did Chen do after all? have? was the first Asian American to Consider that, since the and Lee in the all-important When you hear her tell the The pageant is just more be crowned Miss America. pageant began, the first Black question segment. story, she had been told by a institutional sexism on parade. One appreciates Baraquio Miss America only came about Lee got a question on news director that her eyes We’ve diversified a nega- for breaking cultural barriers in 1984, when Vanessa Syria, somewhat easier since made her look “bored” and tive and super-served a portion even more this year, as the pag- Williams and Suzette Charles war has been delayed and “disinterested.” They were two of the audience with Asian eant can now consider Asian finished first and second. averted—for now. qualities that would never put fetishes. American sub-groups. But Williams’ reign was Davuluri’s question was her on the anchor desk, he said. Sounds like one step for- At the recent pageant, there cut short when photos of her more interesting. She was Chen’s sought advice from ward, two steps back to me. were three Asian Americans in and another woman appeared asked what she thought of CBS a big-time agent who repre- the top 5---an Indian American in Penthouse Magazine. It gave personality Julie Chen’s choice sents major Asian American fe- emil Guillermo is an award- and two Chinese Americans. Charles the opportunity to be to use plastic surgery to make male news stars. His winning journalist who writes for the In the name of diversity, the second African-American her eyes look less Asian. suggestion? Plastic surgery. Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund. it’s a bigger deal than you Miss America, all in one year. Davuluri said she was She thought about it. And Twitter@emilamok. Visit think. That’s two more Miss against plastic surgery, a strong then she got it done. www.amok.com HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS City Council Honors Waipahu Aloha Clubhouse ity Councilmembers Clubhouse is 1 of 10 state- Because getting a job is Ron Menor and funded facilities that offers crucial to restoring mental C Breene Harimoto members a multitude of serv health, the Waipahu Aloha presented an honorary certifi- ices to promote self growth, Clubhouse has formed part- cate to the Waipahu Aloha enhance self-esteem, increase nerships with several local Clubhouse for its on-going ef- self-confidence, develop companies to find jobs for its forts to help adults with men- meaningful relationships and members. A growing number tal illness to rebuild their improve their quality of life. of local employers are giving lives. The presentation was Locatedbehind Waipahu High such people a chance—em- made at the Council’s Sep- School on a 1 acre parcel of ployers like Times Supermar- tember 11, 2013 meeting. land, the Clubhouse wel- ket, T.J. Maxx, Hagadone Founded in December comes an average of 78 mem- Printing, Mililani Agricultural 1997, the Waipahu Aloha bers each day. Park and the Kauai Marriott Resort & Beach Club. Councilmembers Ron Menor (front row, 3rd from left) and Breene “The results so far have Harimoto (front row, 2nd from right) with members from the Waipahu been overwhelmingly posi- Aloha Clubhouse. tive, with many employers noting the tremendous pride Councilmember Menor medication and supportive that Clubhouse members take commended the Waipahu environment, adults with in doing their work,” says Aloha Clubhouse for success- mental illness can go back to Councilmember Harimoto. fully re-integrating its mem- work or attend school, raise a To date, the program has bers back into society and family and maintain a net- helped a total of 663 people debunking the negative work of close friends,” he with mental illnesses. Of its stereotypes often associated says. “The Council extends current active membership of with mental illnesses. its best wishes to Director 190 people, 52 of them are “The Clubhouse has Kim Golis and her staff for gainfully employed. proven that with the proper continued success.” september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 9 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Rail Construction to Close Old Farrington Highway in Ewa ld Farrington High- ioral Center. Following the Motorists will be able to Farrington Highway are ad- w a y b e t w e e n utility relocation work, project access the Kahi Mohala facil- vised to allow for extra time OKualakai Parkway contractor Kiewit Infrastruc- ity in Ewa during the detour. for their commute. (North-South Road) and Old ture West Co. will conduct Roadside electronic message The Honolulu Authority Fort Weaver Road Loop will shaft and column work as part boards have been posted to no- for Rapid Transportation has be closed September 16, 2013 of the planned rail guideway tify drivers about the upcom- been allowed to resume con- through March 2014 as part of near that section of highway. ing road closure. Contractor struction for the rail project construction work for Hon- Traffic in both directions Kiewit Infrastructure West Co. following the completion and olulu’s rail transit project. of Old Farrington Highway be able to access either end by is coordinating with TheBus state approval of archaeologi- The road closure will will be detoured to either the using either Kapolei Parkway officials to relocate bus stops cal work along the rail align- allow work crews to relocate a H-1 Freeway or other nearby or Geiger Road on the south along the affected section of ment. For updates on the major water line along Old roadways. Those travelling be- end of Kualakai Parkway, or Old Farrington Highway to project, log on to: www.hon- Farrington Highway just west tween East Kapolei and the the H-1 Freeway on the north ensure access to the area. Mo- olulutransit.org or call 566- of the Kahi Mohala Behav- Ewa/Waipahu region will still end. torists who routinely use Old 2299. First Filipino-American ‘Kababayan Today’ to Debut at Meetup Set for Oct. 12 in Philippine Consulate Oct. 3 ababayan Today, America’s by over 6.3 million households in Las Vegas first and only locally-pro- Southern California. Kduced talk show for and Host Jannelle So will be in town about Filipinos, will make its Hawaii to meet and establish relationships debut on October 3, 2013 at the Philip- with Oahu’s Filipino community, busi- pine Consulate General in Honolulu. ness groups and other organizations. Organizers have planned a recep- She will film special interest stories tion for the popular talk show at the around Hawaii and accept suggestions Consulate at 6 pm. Kababayan Today on what kababayans want to see on the began broadcasting in May on KIKU- program. he U.S. House Republican well as foreign policy fronts. The pro- TV on channel 20 and on Oceanic To confirm your attendance, call Conference and the U.S. gram will include remarks from con- Cable channel 9. The show celebrated Vice Consul Joyleen Santos at 595- THouse Foreign Affairs Com- gressional leadership and members of its 7th anniversary in April and is seen 6316. mittee are co-organizing the 1st Fil- key committees, as well as breakout ipino-American Meetup scheduled for sessions in which participants can dis- October 12, 2013 from 1 pm to 5 pm cuss topics of interest with members at the M Resort Spa & Casino in Las of Congress. Vegas, Nevada. Leaders in the Filipino-American The Meetup will provide a unique community urge their fellow Fil-Ams opportunity for leaders of Filipino- to attend this momentous event. For American communities across the more details or to register, contact the country to discuss legislative and pol- Philippine Consulate General of Hon- icy priorities, both on the domestic as olulu at 595-6316.
IMMIGRATION GUIDE (from page 7, PSSST: ESCAPE...) of an IJ but can only determine constitutional claims and questions of whether the findings are “clearly erro- law, not determining facts and their neous”. [Our comment: “The Board sufficiency.] Vitug v. Holder, 07-74754 may review questions of law, discre- (9th Cir. 07/24/13). tion, and judgment and all other issues in appeals from decisions of immigra- observation: The Court of tion judges de novo.” 8 C.F.R. § Appeals has opened the floodgates for 1003.1(d)(3)(ii). “De novo” means the Filipino gays to escape deportation or court tries the case anew as if no prior for Filipinos abroad to come to the trial had been held.] U.S. by claiming they are gay and Assuming that the BIA failed to avoid the regular visa processing pro- apply the “clear error” standard of re- cedures. view, courts typically remand the case to the BIA so that the BIA may apply (atty. tipon has a Master of Laws degree the correct standard of review. The from Yale Law School and a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of the Court acknowledged that this is true, Philippines. Office: 800 Bethel St., Suite 402, but said that it would not do so in this Honolulu, HI 96813. Tel. (808) 225-2645. E- case because substantial evidence did Mail: [email protected]. Websites: not support the BIA’s denial of with- www.MilitaryandCriminalLaw.com, and holding of removal. [Our comment: www.ImmigrationServicesUSA.com. Listen to the most witty, interesting, and informative Pursuant to INA § 242(a)(2)(D), a radio program in Hawaii on KNDI at 1270, court’s jurisdiction in appeals from AM dial every Thursday at 7:30 a.m., re- BIA decisions is limited to deciding broadcast at www.iluko.com. 10 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle september 21, 2013 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Hawaii to Get $17 Million for Airport, New Buses he State of Hawaii will receive buses will also have improved ac- more than $17 million from the cess for mobility passengers and pa- TU.S. Department of Transporta- trons with bicycles. tion (USDOT) for airport improvement U.S. Rep. Colleen Hanabusa says projects statewide, as well as funding to that the funds will ensure that Honolulu replace buses for Hawaii, Maui and Airport’s runways are rehabilitated and Kauai counties. safe for the high volume of use they re- The USDOT is providing Hawaii ceive. with: “Our visitor industry is critical to • $10.5 million for Phase II of the run- Hawaii’s economy, and the proper way rehabilitation project at Hon- maintenance and renovation of our olulu International Airport. transportation infrastructure is critical • $904,500 for a study to evaluate the to supporting that market,” she says. existing airport system and identify According to U.S. Rep. Tulsi Gab- airport development needs. bard, providing more buses will encour- • $2.5 million to update the pavement age locals and visitors to drive less—an management program for the seven important step in reducing the state’s primary and one reliever airports consumption of imported fossil fuels. within the state to re-establish the “Overall, this funding will ensure current condition of the airfields. that our visitors, as well as our residents • $3.4 million for the State of Good visiting family and friends on another Repair Program, which will pur- island, can continue to have a pleasant chase replacement buses for Hawaii, and dependable traveling experience,” Maui, and Kauai Counties. The new she says. Filipino Films to Highlight Hawaii Intl Film Fest
he annual Hawaii International This year’s event will showcase inter- Film Festival is celebrating its national films from different countries T 33rd year with showings sched- including the Philippines. uled for October 10-20, 2013 in Hon- Philippine films like “Thy Womb” olulu and October 24-27, 2013 for the (Sinapupunan) starring Nora Aunor, “If Big Island and Kauai. Only (Sana Dati) and “The Spider’s Established in 1981, the Hawaii In- Lair” (Babagwa) will be featured. ternational Film Festival is dedicated to For screening dates, times and ven- the advancement of cultural exchange ues, go online to: www.hiff.org. and media awareness in the Pacific Rim. COVER STORY (from page 5, DR. ALFREDO...)
The small town of San Fernando, mans and nations or the family of the one that I and Alfredo knew, is no loved ones and friends—it always more. It has become a crowded, comes to the fundamental reality in bustling city with more than 120,000 our lives that it is the family that con- people. I no longer recognize much of stitutes our unique roots and essential it when I go home occasionally. cultural heritage. But the concept of family in our so- ciety is eternal as in most other cul- (dr. aQuino is currently professor emeritus at tures. As the famous anthropologist the University of Hawaii-Manoa, where she served and author Margaret Mead once said, as professor of political science and Asian studies and as founding director of the Center for Philippine “No matter how many communes any- Studies for 35 years. She was UP vice president for body invents, the family always creeps public affairs from 1989-91, UPAA Lifetime back.” Achievement Awardee in 2008 and UPAAA’s Most And no matter how family is de- Distinguished Alumna at the 2003 General Conven- fined—whether it is the family of hu- tion and Assembly in Houston, Texas. september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 11 PHILIPPINE NEWS Philippines Files Graft Cases Against Lawmakers by Teresa Cerojano transferred from 2007 to 2009 President Benigno Aquino III tion. Tuesday, September 17, 2013 to dozens of questionable non- in August after she was "Let me make clear that I government organizations, in- charged with illegal detention am innocent of the charges ANILA - The cluding those put up by of a whistle-blower. filed against me," he said. Philippine Justice businesswoman Janet Lim "This is a cleansing Three other former House MDepartment filed Napoles, according to a gov- process," said Senate Presi- members are being accused of the first major corruption com- ernment audit that was part of dent Franklin Drilon. misuse of public funds, plaints against three powerful the evidence used against the One of the respondents, bribery and other corrupt prac- senators, former lawmakers lawmakers. Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, who is a tices for receiving less than 50 and a wealthy businesswoman Thirty-eight people were son of an ousted president, told million pesos each. Napoles is yesterday following a public named as respondents in yes- his colleagues yesterday that he named co-conspirator for both outcry over the alleged plunder terday's complaints, including was innocent. He said that En- the plunder and the misuse of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima of millions of dollars intended staffers of the lawmakers, but rile, at 89 the oldest senator, public funds charges. for anti-poverty projects. de Lima said more people will ate the evidence before for- was taken to a hospital over the A summary of the com- Justice Secretary Leila de be charged. The recommended warding the case to an anti- weekend for high blood pres- plaint said the scam starts with Lima said the complaints charges range from plunder — graft court, which will decide sure but that he would chal- an agreement between a law- against the lawmakers, includ- a non-bailable crime — to whether to issue arrest war- lenge the charges in court. maker and Napoles to desig- ing veteran Sen. Juan Ponce misuse of public funds, rants. The complaint has recom- nate her NGOs as recipients of Enrile, alleged that they con- bribery and graft. The scandal caused such mended the plunder charges be special development funds that spired with dummy aid organ- There was so much docu- an uproar in the impoverished laid against Enrile, Estrada, each member can allocate. The izations to steal millions of mentary evidence that justice nation that hundreds of thou- Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. and lawmaker allegedly then got 40 dollars in government funds officials used a truck to haul sands of people turned up at a two former members of the to 60 percent of the project's that should have been used for the papers to the Office of the huge protest in Manila last House of Representatives for cash value as a kickback, while agriculture and livelihood Ombudsman, or the anti-graft month. allegedly pocketing more than Napoles gave 10 percent to the projects that the lawmakers prosecutor, in a convoy of ve- At the center of it is 50 million pesos ($1.4 million) head of the government agency had designated as recipients hicles that was trailed by the Napoles, who is accused of each. implementing the project and for the funds. media and beamed live on na- acting as a conduit for the Enrile said in a statement pocketed the rest after deduct- The alleged kickbacks tionwide TV. money and a mastermind of that the complaint was filed ing the cost of overpriced sup- were part of $141 million The prosecutor will evalu- the scam. She surrendered to after an incomplete investiga- plies. (www.philstar.com) The Pork 'Modus Operandi,' According to NBI Napoles would also get by Camille Diola the full remaining amount if Tuesday, September 17, 2013 there is no delivery made at ANILA, Philip- all. pines - The Na- Mtional Bureau of Janet Inc. Investigation already has an Napoles allegedly has 10 idea of how businesswoman active NGOs that were used as Janet Lim-Napoles, the law- conduits for the scam. The makers and other players chop NBI said Napoles incorpo- up millions of pesos worth of rated the organizations ‘Honorable accused’: Senators Jinggoy Estrada, Bong Revilla and Juan Ponce-Enrile pork barrel funds. through JLN employees, rela- "The scheme starts with an (DBM), which will release the Allocation to the implement- sentatives, also got their share tives, house helpers and driv- agreement between Napoles Special Allotment Release ing agency," the NBI said. from the plundered public ers. and the lawmaker where the Order (SARO) and send it to "Upon receipt of the NCA, the fund. "These NGOs have inter- latter promises to designate the lawmaker. implementing agency issues a "The chief-of-staff of the locking incorporators, com- Napoles' (non-government or- The NBI said the law- check to the Napoles NGO lawmaker or his representative mon auditors, and notaries ganizations) as the recipient of maker would then endorse a which is deposited by JLN who facilitates documents and public in the Securities and his PDAF..." the NBI said in selected NGO of Napoles to employees and the cash with- follow ups with agencies for Exchange Commission (SEC) its executive summary of the the implementing agency, drawn and delivered to the lawmaker and Napoles documents," the bureau said. complaints of plunder and whose officials would imme- Napoles." also get 1 to 5 percent of the The NBI filed the first malversation of public funds diately accept the project and project cost, also as kickback," batch of complaints on Tues- against the businesswoman the NGO without public bid- Paid in advance the NBI noted. day recommending plunder and the lawmakers. ding. The implementing The NBI said that the For playing their part in charges against Senators Juan It said, under the executive agency would then enter into a share of the senators and con- the modus operandi, the heads Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada summary's "modus operandi" memorandum of agreement gressmen are paid in advance of the implementing agencies and Bong Revilla and former topic, that there is already an with the fake NGO for the pro- in two tranches: first upon the get 10 percent of the total cost Masbate representative Riza- agreement that the senator or ject's implementation. submission of the project list of the project. lina Seachon-Lanete and for- congressman would get 40 to The projects are author- to the DBM and second, upon "The rest is pocketed by mer APEC party-list 60 percent of the cash value of ized as eligible under the the release of the SARO. Napoles after deducting the representative Edgar Valdez. the project as "kickback." DBM's menu for pork barrel The bureau also found cost of overpriced supplies Related: Plunder raps filed The scheme starts with the allocation. during its investigation that such as agricultural kits and vs Napoles, 3 'pork' senators | lawmaker submitting a list of "After all the documenta- the staff of the senators and training materials procured Summary of plunder, malver- projects to the Department of tion is completed, the DBM is- congressmen, particularly from a supplier enterprise also sation complaints Budget and Management sues a Notice of Cash their chiefs of staff and repre- owned by her," it added. (continued on page 15) 12 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle september 21, 2013 PHILIPPINE NEWS FEATURE Phl Bananas Hit Stores in LA War Declared vs by Ding Cervantes Monday, September 16, 2013 ‘Gloria Fish’ LARK FREEPORT, N G E L E S C I T Y, Pampanga , Philip- Philippines – The Bu- Cpines – The Philip- Areau of Fisheries and pines has become the first Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has Asian country to export ba- been urged to curb the growing nanas to the US. population of a smelly fish The Philippine embassy in known as “Gloria Arroyo,” described by fisherfolk as “in- Washington announced yester- vasive and predatory.” day that the first shipment of Fisherfolk named the fish after former President and the country’s bananas har- now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo because of vested in Bukidnon will be Consul Elmer Cato. Philippine Ambassador to its size and a dark pigmentation, which looks like a mole, sold in Los Angeles markets Agriculture attaché Josy- the US Jose Cuisia said that under its jaw. next week. line Javelosa said the arrival “with arrival of the maiden However, the BFAR clarified that the fish has not been “The bananas, which ar- of the shipment, the first of shipment of 7.047 metric tons officially named after the detained former leader. rived in the US last Sept. 9, an estimated 3,000 metric of highland bananas at the A fisher’s group said the fish, which looks like tilapia have been transferred to a tons that the US hopes to im- Port of Long Beach near Los (St. Peter’s fish), is bland and has an unpleasant smell. ripening warehouse and will port from the Philippines this Angeles, the Philippines has Fisherfolk leader Salvador France said they have been be available in local stores in year, came almost eight years earned the distinction of being preying on bangus (milkfish) fingerlings and shrimps in LA next week,” said an email after the Philippines first re- the first Asian country to ex- fishponds, creeks and rivers in Bulacan. sent to The STAR by Philip- quested market access for its port bananas to the US.” “The Arroyo fish grows fast and matures in one month, pine embassy spokesman bananas. (www.philstar.com) compared to bangus and other aquatic species raised in fish- ponds. It poses extreme danger to milkfish, crab and shrimps,” France said. Miriam to Colleagues in ‘Pork’ Vendors sell the Arroyo fish for P15 to P20 per kilo, he said. Mess: Die “Bulacan fishponds have become hosts to a number of predatory and alien fish species,” he added. (www.philstar.com) by Christina Mendez Thursday, September 5, 2013 ANILA, Philip- mittee of the Commission on so galactic,” Santiago said. pines - Die. Appointments. M “The whole system is just Plunder Sen. Miriam Defensor- so bad, that’s why people get Santiago said concerned Santiago had this suggestion sick. I think this is the country lawmakers could be charged to her colleagues tagged in the with the most sick people in with plunder along with multibillion-peso pork barrel the whole world, that we con- Napoles. scam, adding that those who tinue to go to office as if noth- She said plunder charges spared from the controversy ing happens,” she said. could be filed against the sen- should commit “hara-kiri.” “We are really, really sick ators based on witnesses’ ac- “Eat, blank and die,” the Sen. Miriam Defensor-Santiago or morally sick, mentally sick. counts and the special audit report from 2007 to 2009. senator said when asked at a kiri. You owe it to the Filipino pare a necktie for her or a The higher the positions, the Santiago said Napoles press briefing yesterday how people. We should all wear our piece of rope.” higher their mental sickness,” could not be made state wit- lawmakers linked to the scam Filipino robes and bow in Sidelined by chronic fa- she added. ness, noting that it does not should deal with the issue. front of TV and hara-kiri our- tigue syndrome, it was the first appear that she is the least And to the rest of the law- selves.” time in a long while that San- Most expensive handbag guilty, unless she pins down makers who were not impli- She said she would just tiago showed up at the Senate. Santiago said she is raring higher officials in govern- cated, Santiago said, “Abolish ask her household helper to She also presided over a hear- to attend the Senate Blue Rib- ment. the Congress. Commit hara- buy her “a vial of poison, pre- ing of the foreign affairs com- bon committee hearing on the pork barrel scam to grill both “If she will do that, I will the whistleblowers and sus- agree that she will be the least pected pork barrel scam oper- guilty… So far in the hands of ator Janet Lim-Napoles. the DOJ (Department of Jus- Asked what she wanted to tice), particularly the NBI ask Napoles, the senator said, (National Bureau of Investi- “What’s the most expensive gation), we have no evi- handbag?” dence,” she said. Napoles and her family “The Penal Code is very have been criticized for their strict on the rule of making an high profile lifestyle, high- individual a state witness, be- lighted by partying and a col- cause she would be absolved lection of expensive handbags of wrongdoings… (which) and accessories. will mean the dropping of “I cannot grasp how charges against her,” she said. much her money is, which is (www.philstar.com) september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 13 LEGAL NOTES Adjustment of Status Granted Despite riod between March 2007 Gap In Lawful Status when CIS denied the request meet the basic requirements, the Board of Immigration Ap- placed in removal proceed- for extension of her H-1B and namely, physical presence in peals (BIA) involved Lorna ings before an immigration June 2007, when she filed for the U.S. at the time of filing, Maynigo, a Filipino citizen, judge. adjustment of status. The pe- By Reuben S. Seguritan having lawfully entered the who entered the United States The immigration judge riod was approximately foreign na- U.S. through inspection by a on June 24, 2001. She (IJ) disagreed with the CIS three-and-a-half months tional with an U.S. immigration officer or changed her status to H-1B and found Maynigo to be eli- which was less than the 180 approved em- paroled into the U.S., and not which was valid until August gible for adjustment of status days allowed under Section p l o y m e n t - being subject to any of the in- 29, 2006. She timely filed a under Section 245(k). The IJ 245(k). b a s e d admissibility grounds. request for extension of her clarified that under Section The IJ also noted that if A immigrant peti- Foreign nationals who H-1B status on August 28, 245(k), an employment-based the court denies Maynigo’s tion whose priority date is have incurred “unlawful sta- 2006. immigrant may adjust status adjustment application, she current may apply for an im- tus” are generally not eligible The Citizenship and Im- if (1) the applicant is in the would be forced to apply for migrant visa through consular to adjust status. However, migration Services (CIS) de- U.S. pursuant to a lawful ad- immigrant visa through con- processing abroad or apply certain employment-based nied Maynigo’s request for mission and (2) after being sulate process. She would for adjustment of status if ap- adjustment applicants may extension on March 7, 2007. admitted pursuant to a lawful then be subject to the three or plicant is already in the U.S. still obtain approval of their She subsequently filed an ap- admission, the applicant can- possibly ten-year bar for un- Adjustment of status is the I-485 adjustment of status ap- plication for adjustment of not have exceeded more than lawful presence and would more preferred route because plications despite gaps in status on June 29, 2007 based 180 days in the aggregate of not qualify for waiver of that the applicant is eligible for lawful status. Under Section on an approved I-140 em- any of these violations: (a) ground for inadmissibility. work authorization and per- 245(k), they may adjust sta- ployment-based visa petition. “failed to maintain continu- The IJ found the conse- mission to travel while the tus if the total period of their The priority date for the visa ously” a lawful status; (b) en- quences of a denial too harsh application is pending. unlawful status is not more petition was current. The CIS gaged in unauthorized for an individual who has To be eligible to adjust than 180 days. denied her adjustment of sta- employment; or (c) otherwise done everything in her power status, the applicant must A recent case appealed to tus application and she was violated the terms and condi- to maintain lawful status tions of admission. since coming to the U.S. and MAINLAND NEWS According to the CIS, would unduly penalize her Maynigo was “out of status” for the brief period she failed since the expiration of her H- to maintain lawful status. For Obama Warns GOP Against Creating 1B on June 29, 2006. The IJ this reason, the IJ found that disagreed, saying that be- she deserved the court’s fa- 'Economic Chaos' Obama has flatly rejected. cause Maynigo filed a timely vorable exercise of discretion | by Jim Kuhnhenn AP Others say the scheduled application for extension of and granted her application Tuesday, September 17, 2013 spending cuts should stay in her H-1B status, she main- for adjustment of status. ASHINGTON — place to reduce the deficit. tained lawful status under the In a blistering The president was flanked terms of Section 245(k) while warning to con- by Americans the White that extension application reuben s. seGuritan has W been practicing law for over 30 House says have benefitted was pending. The IJ further gressional Republicans, Presi- years. For further information, you dent Barack Obama said it from his administration's eco- stressed that the only period may call him at (212) 695 5281 or would be the "height of irre- nomic and banking policies. that Maynigo “failed to main- log on to his website at www.segu- sponsibility" for lawmakers to Those policies, he said, have tain” her status was the pe- ritan.com cause another economic crisis laid a "new foundation" for just five years after the col- economic growth, though he lapse of the nation's financial acknowledged that the recov- system. Pres. Barack Obama ery is not being felt by many "I cannot remember a time middle class Americans. when one faction of one party licans over the debt ceiling. Polling show the public is promises economic chaos if it And he called on Congress to not convinced that the econ- can't get 100 percent of what it "pass a budget without omy is on the mend. Only one- wants," Obama said yesterday. drama." third say the economic system "That's never happened be- Some conservative Re- is more secure now than in fore." publicans say they will only 2008, and 52 percent say they The president spoke at a extend current spending levels disapprove of Obama's han- White House event pegged to or increase the debt ceiling if dling of the economy, accord- the fifth anniversary of the Obama delays putting in place ing to a Pew Research Center bankruptcy of Lehman Broth- his health care law, a condition poll. (www.philstar.com) ers. The White House used the anniversary to lay out the pres- ADVERTISE NOW AND SEE ident's markers for upcoming HOW THE FACE OF BUSINESS fiscal fights with Congress over funding the government IS CHANGING! No matter how small your ad, it gets our readers attention! and raising the nation's debt CALL 678-8930 OR GO TO OUR WEBSITES @ limit. www.thefilipinochronicle.com Obama reiterated his re- www.efilipinochronicle.com fusal to negotiate with Repub- 14 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle september 21, 2013 PHILIPPINE LANGUAGE
editor's note: This short story won first prize in 1981 Gumil Hawaii short story writing contest on a pen name: Oram Odil and published in Bin-i, a GH anthol- ogy book. Due to space limitation each issue, HFC will publish it in five (5) parts. Nangabak daytoy a sarita iti umuna a gunggona iti Salip Ti Sarita 1981 iti Gumil Hawaii. iti parbo a nagan: Oram Odil ken nairaman iti Bin-i a libro ti GH Gapu iti limitado nga espasio, agbalin a lima a paset daytoy. Ti Torre, Ti Apuy, Ken Ti Ima Ti Dios
ILOKO dagiti agina. Nakadalukappit ni diak mangnamnama nga ag- ..Mataykamin….!!!!. Simleng nga agserbi, maragsakanak ta By Amado I. Yoro Rosario iti suli. Sab-okna ti ri- balbaliwak pay. No pudno nga dagiti ikkis. Winagisan ti sibibiagkayo pay nga agina.” naay ti nalaylay a sabong. Idi adda ayat ti tao wenno ti Dios, bombero a saan a sumrek dita “Burburtia met ti biagmi, Maikapat a Paset tumakder daytoy, nagkalang- saankami koma a kastoy. ngem inalistuanna ketdi ti sim- Pastor. Sungani kadagiti am- giking dagiti sensilio iti sab- Apay nga ibaindakami ti tao. rek latta. Nalaus ti danag ken ammok. Adda dita dagiti kak- okna. Ad-adda manen a simnek Apay a saktandakami ti tao? bessag ti ubing. Intaray nga in- abagian ken am-ammomi. (Umuna a gunggona ti kaasi ti pastor. Kullapit un- Apay nga adda kinarawet? ruar ti pastor. Kasla kimat, nag- Ngem saandakami nga am- iti Salip Ti Sarita ayen ti babai. Bakbaketen nga Apay a managinkukuna ti gi- subli met laeng. Sinakruyna ni ammo. Linaksidak gapu iti na- 1981- pename: Oram amang ngem ti pudno a mong? Apay? Apay a kastoy, Rosario. Iti apagdarikmat, pagtengko. Ngem ammo ti Odil) tawenna. Nadlaw ti pastor a pastor,” kinuna ni Rosario. sinppayot ti alipaga ti pasdek a Dios, saanko a nagay-ayatan ti nalukayen ti rimatsi ti bagina. KASTA UNAY TI yan dagiti agina. Simmaruno ti pannakaramesko. Ibagada pay AMAL- “Kastoykami lattan, pas- KARIBUSO DAGITI AM- napigsa nga angin. Sa manen ti ketdi idi nga ibellengko ni MANNA. Rin- tor,” naikuyog ti uyek ni BULANSIA ken Fire Depart- kanablaag; nanarpaaken ti pas- Anton, kunada a bunga kano ti ugianen ni Rosario. “Abusta lebleb- ment iti dayta a malem. dek. Pinaturongan dagiti pammilit. Ngem diak mabalin Pastor Bagnos ti nakamin ti nadungrit a barong- Maur-uram ti Chinatown. Iti bombero Ngem nadaleb ti nga aramiden ti ibagbagada. nagpasiar ken barong ken kaeskuateran, panagkita ni Pastor Bagnos, iti medio agrakrakayan a pasdek Pinalubosak nga agbiag ni K lingkanakami pay ti daga.” asideg ti Puerto ti yan ti agas- iti karenderia. Anton nupay ammok a bunga n a k i s a r i t a kadagiti mabalinna nga asitgan Nagsaninglot. “Inoras, inaldaw asimbuyok nga apuy. Sum- “Baro a biag,” nalaus ti ti pannakaidadanesko. Uray a gunglo. Inasitganna pay dag- nga ur-urayenmi ti pan- sumgiab ti dila ken gil-ayab ti yaman ni Rosario. “Apay nga no bunga ti kinarawet ti tao iti iti gunglo nga agit-ited iti nakarpuog wenno apuy. Lamlamotenna ti dakkel ar-aramidem dagitoy lasag ken derrep. Kunak saranay. Nakisarita met kadag- pananglamut ti apuy ditoy. a bodega. Pattapatta ni Pastor kadakami, pastor?” manar- ngamin, a bareng no isunto ti iti ahensia ti gobierno. No adda Awanen ti sabali a pagkaman- Bagnos a dita ti yan da Rosario taraigid ti lua ni Rosario. makaamiris ti pudno a pan- dagiti mangayon adda met ganmi,” makilumlumba ti ken Anton. “Apay a dimo latta koman im- nagna ken kaipapanan ti biag. dagiti sumupiat. Ngem saan a angesna iti panagsaona. Nagdardaras ni Pastor palubos a mataykami lattan iti Dandanikamin natay gapu itoy napukaw ti namnamana. Am- “Mamatika kadi nga adda Bagnos a simmurot iti ugoy kasta a pannakaitanem.” dakkel nga apuy ti uram. Ket mona a makaurnongto. Ditoy pay la kaasi ti Dios, Rosario? dagiti fire department tankers. “Saan a masebseban ti iti daytoy nga inaramidmo, nga ipakitana ti maysa nga Kayatko a sawen no patiem Nagtibnok ti arimbangaw ken apuy iti gura iti gura. Maysa a pastor, madlawko nga agsubli akemna a kas ima ti Dios. Saan nga adda milagro nga arami- ikkis dagiti agpapaarayat. Inal- pagrebbengan ti mangsalaknib ti dakkel a panagtalekko iti a nalaka a maupay. Adu dagiti den ti Dios?” dinamag ti pas- istuan ti pastor a tinurong ti ti pada a tao. Maysaak la nga pada a tao ken ti gimong a mabalinna a saurngkaran. tor. karenderia a yan dagiti agina. adipen ti Dios. Ket no daytoy nangibelleng kadakami nga Sinarungkaranna manen “Iti kastoy a kasasaadko, “Arayatendakami… man ti maysa a kita ti misionko agina.” (Maituloyto) MAINLAND NEWS Obama to Visit Manila Next Month .S. President Barack Obama has accepted Uthe invitation of Philippine President Benigno S. Aquino III and will travel to Manila for a two-day visit Oc- tober 11-12, 2013. “President Obama will meet with President Aquino to discuss ways to further the Philippines that was engen- strengthen the enduring Philip- dered by President Aquino’s pines-U.S. alliance, including good governance agenda,” the expansion of our security, Cuisa says. “We are optimistic economic and people-to-people that in their discussions, Presi- ties,” says Philippine Press dent Aquino and President Secretary Edwin Lacierda. Obama will identify new op- News of President portunities for mutually bene- Obama’s visit was welcomed ficial cooperation in the areas by Jose L. Cuisia Jr., the Philip- of defense and security, trade pines’ ambassador to the U.S. and investment and broader “The visit to Manila is an people to people ties.” opportunity for President This will be the first visit of Obama to personally witness President Obama to the Philip- the economic transformation in pines. september 21, 2013 Hawaii Filipino CHroniCle 15 COMMUNITY CALENDAR CLASSIFIED ADS OFFICERS, DIRECTORS AND uNIT MEMBER FILCOM CENTER’S 11TH ANNuAL GALA DINNER Valbin Corporation is currently seeking TS/SCI ORGANIzATIONS OF THE OAHu FILIPINO AND FuNDRAISER EvENT ● SATuRDAY ● November TAGALOG LINGuISTS who are also fluent in COMMuNITY COuNCIL, RE-AFFIRMATION AND 9, 2013, 5:30 PM ● FilCom Center, Waipahu ● Visit Maguindanao and/or Maranao. Please send us your INSTALLATION BANquET ● SuNDAY ● October 6, 2013, www.filcom.org for more information resume and salary requirements if interested at 6 PM ● Pacific Beach Hotel ● For reservations and more [email protected] information, please call Angie Santiago (542-1418), Baybee uFCH REAFFIRMATION AND PROGRESS AwARDS Hufana-Ablan (723-1473) or Loida Yamamoto (679-9540)". ● SATuRDAY ● November 23, 2013 ● For details and LAND SuRvEYING RODPERSON NEEDED nomination forms, email [email protected] Prefer experience but can train uFCH MRS. HAwAII FILIPINA SCHOLARSHIP FT w/ some OT. Call (808)395-5476 PAGEANT ● SuNDAY ● October 13, 2013, $60 Donation ● 50TH FOuNDATION & GALA CELEBRATION Ala Moana Hotel ● For details email [email protected] DINNER & BALL OF CABuGAO SONS & BUSINESS DIRECTORY DAuGHTERS OF HAwAII ● SATuRDAY ● December GLOBAL NAGuILIANDERS ALLIANCE NETwORK 7, 2013, 6 PM ● Waikiki Beach Marriott Resort & Spa ● REuNION & DINNER DANCE ● SATuRDAY ● October Contact: Mercedes Sonico, 258-9573 or 842-7149 26, 2013, 6 PM ● Ala Moana Hotel ● Contact: Eddie Baladad @ 341-5047 PHILIPPINE NEWS Phl, US Eye New Pact on ‘Rotational Presence’ in Time for Obama Visit by Paolo Romero Thursday, September 19, 2013
ANILA, Philip- Del Rosario said Obama’s pines - The Philip- two-day visit is “quite impor- Mpines and the tant because it endorses the United States aim to forge a value of our relationship.” new pact allowing the deploy- “We’re hoping to get the ment of more American troops framework agreement by that and military hardware in the time, but we’ll see what hap- country in time for the visit of pens,” Del Rosario said during The Philippine-US Amphibious Landing Exercises kicked off at the parameters for possible US US President Barack Obama, a break in the plenary deliber- naval base facing turbulent waters claimed by China, as the allies military activities in the coun- sought to highlight their expanding military alliance | ernie PeÑareDonDo Foreign Affairs Secretary Al- ations of the proposed 2014 try. bert del Rosario said yester- budget of the Department of Sorreta noted that joint protection of the environ- aircraft, and warships into the day. Foreign Affairs (DFA). military exercises between the ment,” he said. country. Del Rosario said negotia- DFA Assistant Secretary Philippines and the US, in- He stressed that both sides “If we do sign the agree- tions between the Philippines Carlos Sorreta said both sides cluding the large-scale Ba- do not intend to have perma- ment, it does not constitute and the US are in its final have made “quite a lot of likatan, are mostly tactics, and nent US military facilities in blanket authority for the US to stages after three rounds of progress” and the concerns of designed for internal defense, the country, adding “there’s access, there is a process, each talks in Manila and Washing- the Philippine government counter-terrorism and transna- nothing in the agreement that activity will have to be ap- ton, and agreement could be have been addressed. tional crimes. will allow it.” proved by the Philippines,” signed before Obama’s visit “We have on record He said the framework Sorreta said the draft of the official said. on Oct. 11. agreed minutes, from there agreement would enhance these the accord clearly defines the He said the proposed The Philippines will host you can see respect for the joint exercises to focus on ex- authorization process on al- agreement merely provides the the fourth round of negotia- Philippine Constitution… we ternal defense. (www.philstar.com) tions in Manila on Oct. 1-2. have clear language on the lowing the entry of US troops,
(from page 11, THE PORK...) The five lawmakers were public funds because their al- the scam through paper trails charged with plunder because leged kickbacks were below including the SAROs, DBM their supposed kickbacks were P50 million. notices, the lawmakers' en- more than P50 million. Justice Secretary Leila de dorsement letters, project pro- • Juan Ponce Enrile - Lima said another batch of in- posals, activity reports, project P172,834,500 dividuals involved in the pork profiles, inspection and ac- • Ramon Revilla Jr. - barrel scam will be charged ceptance reports, disburse- P224,512,500 with similar complaints next ment reports and vouchers • Jinggoy Estrada - week. among others. P183,793,750 De Lima said that the • Rizalina Seachon-Lanete - Where did the NBI get the in- COA special report on the P108,405,000 formation? PDAF released last month was • Edgar Valdez - The NBI said the investi- not used as evidence, but as P56,087,500 gation team gathered docu- basis to point to leads in the Former representatives ments from the Commission probe. Rodolfo Plaza (Agusan del on Audit (COA), DBM, Secu- The testimonies of the Sur Rep), Samuel Dangwa rities and Exchange Commis- whistle-blowers, led by Ben- (Benguet) and Constantino Ja- sion and implementing hur Luy, were used to corrob- raula (Cagayan de Oro City) agencies of the questionable orate the documentary were charged with the lesser PDAF projects. evidence gathered by the bu- offense of malversation of The bureau also followed reau. (www.philstar.com) SEPTEMBER 21, 2013