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Probe into why more abused Pinoy Domestic helps in Kuwait WEEKLY ISSUE 70 CITIES IN 11 STATES ONLINE Vol. IX Issue 459 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 January 25 - 31, 2018 Senate, House locked in stalemate

PH NEWS | A2 over constitutional amendment By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent De Lima asks Facebook to take down fake news The uncalled-for sense of urgency adamant on convening the House in the effort of the House of Repre- into a constituent assembly and then sentatives to change the system of proposing changes to the Constitution government to federalism is gone but by itself, without the Senate. the collision between the House and This is because the Senate refuses the Senate over the manner of carry- to participate in such a constituent as- ing out the constitutional amendment sembly and insists on a constitutional seemed unavoidable. convention instead. The senators Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez took want to vote separately for the pur- back the House’s original plan to rush pose while the House, suspecting that the measure by holding a plebiscite some senators have their own ideas on PH NEWS | A2 simultaneous with the and Charter change (Cha-cha), pushes for Sangguniang Kabataan elections on a joint effort since the congressmen May 14 this year. But he remained TO PAGE A7 Duterte will ‘slap’ Joma (L-R) House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and Sen. Aquilino Pimentel (Photo: www..com) DFA accuses Human Rights Watch of intentionally misleading PHP 1.6B refunded to gov’t by international community in its 2017 report on the anti-dengue vaccination maker By Lara Climaco The Department of Foreign Affairs In its 2017 Global Report on Hu- FilAm Star Correspondent last January 20 accused Human Rights man Rights, the group, which has been PH NEWS | A3 Watch of intentionally misleading the consistently critical of President Ro- Ahead of a formal demand from international community after the New drigo Duterte, reiterated its claim that the Philippine Department of Health Warriors needed big York-based group reported that the hu- the government’s campaign against (DOH) for a full refund and the set- second half to beat Knicks man rights situation in the Philippines illegal drugs resulted in the deaths of ting up of an indemnification fund to is at its worst since the time of former more than 12,000 individuals, mostly support all patients, Sanofi Pasteur as- President Ferdinand Marcos. members of urban poor communities sured the Senate that it would shoulder “We will not allow Human Rights and including children. the cost of any proven complication Watch to portray an unfair and unjust “Human Rights Watch has politi- related to Dengvaxia. image of our country nor will we let it cized the issue for its own gain and has “Of course, we are a corporate so- question the strength of our democ- not done any real research, study or cial company, we have ethics and obvi- racy,” Foreign Affairs Sec. Alan Peter investigation on the human rights situ- ously should there be any case related, Cayetano said in a statement where he ation in the Philippines,” Cayetano said be it death or any other case, we will took issue with the group’s assessment as he dared the group to show proof of shoulder the cost if there is a causality of the human rights situation in the the slain 12,000 it said were all victims DFA Sec. that’s been demonstrated through sci SPORTS NEWS | A5 Philippines in 2017. TO PAGE A7 (Photo: www.rappler.com) TO PAGE A7 5 outfit changes, Hermes giveaways in Isabelle’s debut 500 new members ‘fed up’ with Duterte’s Foreign affairs dept. questioned for allowing ‘abuse of power’ join Liberal Party Chinese maritime research in Benham Rise By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent

cities as the opposition The Liberal Party said they are party marked its 72nd alarmed by the admission of the founding anniversary. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) Speaking at the an- that it has allowed China to conduct ENTERTAINMENT | B8 niversary celebrations, maritime research in Benham Rise. Vice-president Leni “We demand full transparency of Robredo welcomed the the deal,” stressed LP President Sen. 7 medical missionaries new party members for Francis Pangilinan. having “the courage to “What will the country stand killed in Cebu car crash join up.” Robredo wore to gain from this marine scientific black at the event to research? Why do we need to partner By Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS symbolize the “dark- with China? Can’t the Philippines do it Columnist, Cebu Daily News Senator Francis Pangilinan ness that shrouds the on its own? What is in store for China (Photo: www.adobochronicles.com) Special Report nation.” after the research? “he asked. Rep. Teddy He also questioned how long will China is not exactly the most trustwor- Baguilat, head of the the marine research be carried out by thy partner for such an activity,” said LP’s national organiz- the Chinese government and its cover- Pangilinan. ing and membership age. He said they cannot just turn a committee who led the “What are the mechanisms and blind eye to past reports about China’s Vice-president Leni Robredo (left) Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat oath-taking in Naga guidelines in place in the conduct of bullying of Filipino fishermen and its (top right) and Sen. Bam Aquino (bottom right) City, said the new the activity?” he further questioned, constant patrolling of disputed waters (Photo: www.untvweb.com) party members became The opposition leader also in- in the West Philippine Sea. About 500 persons who were fed “card-bearing, commit- quired into the impact of such joint un- Amid the protest of the Philippines up with the Duterte administration’s ted, non-politician Liberals.” and other claimant nations, he said Dr. Nunilo Rubio (right) and wife dertaking on the Philippines’ national Dr. Elenita Rubio (left) “abuse of power” have joined the Lib- Baguilat said many of those who interest and security. China continued its military build-up eral Party (LP) in simultaneous oath- joined the LP did so through the “We raise these queries because and aggressive infrastructure projects STORY ON PAGE A7 taking rites in , Cebu and Naga TO PAGE A7 history and experience tell us that TO PAGE A7 A2 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 ph news Health alert: Probe urged into why more Filipino domestic helpers are Measles outbreak declared abused in Kuwait, ways to keep women in local labor force in Davao City DAVAO CITY — Health While the carrier of the By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent officials in the city on Monday measles virus had not been declared a measles outbreak identified, health workers Sen. Cynthia Villar called abroad, are coping with the after four children died and discovered that the low im- for a comprehensive review of increasing number of the number of suspected cases munization coverage among welfare and protective mecha- working abroad,” she said. climbed to more than 200. residents had contributed to nisms for Filipino domestic “If we leave everything to Dr. Josephine Villafuerte, the spread of the virus, Du- workers bound for the Middle market forces, then the exo- chief of the City Health Office mama said. East following the President’s dus of our women as domestic (CHO), however, said only 17 “Of the 224 cases, we directive to stop OFW deploy- workers shall continue while of the suspected cases recorded learned that 119 had not been ment to Kuwait. the number of embassy person- from November last year to vaccinated,” Dumama said. “The DoLE’s order to nel that are able to protect them Jan. 12 this year had been con- He blamed the parents for suspend the deployment of our remain stagnant,” she added. firmed to be measles. this health crisis, noting that overseas workers to Kuwait In Kuwait, for example, Of the confirmed cases, many of them had cited ex- is a temporary solution to a the Senator noted that the num- 16 were call center agents who cuses, like their lack of time, on perennial problem. We need ber of OFWs (both new-hires were confined in hospitals last why they failed to bring their long-term solutions to encour- and re-hires) deployed annually week, she said. Many of those children to health centers for age more of our women to look increased from 70,098 in 2014 infected with measles, Vil- their antimeasles shots. for work here at home so they to at least 109,615 in 2016. Yet, lafuerte said, were not Davao Villafuerte said health can be with their families,” Vil- the number of embassy person- lar said. nel catering to OFWs in Kuwait Senator Cynthia Villar Villar, a staunch OFW hardly increased. (Photo: www.ibtimes.ph) advocate, noted that the rising She also noted that out of number of women leaving to 67,623 new-hires for Kuwait in achieved for their protection. deaths of seven OFWs in Ku- work abroad as domestic work- 2016, at least 55,377 of them I also hope that our economic wait, the DFA and DoLE should ers could lead to more abuses were contracted for domestic planners can look at how more also look into why so many of unless protection of their rights work. “I am glad that the Presi- women can be absorbed into our domestic workers, especial- on-site can be enhanced. dent no less gave us a wake-up our labor force so that they no ly in the Middle East, are being She noted that the over- call on the number of tragic longer need to work abroad as deprived of their basic rights seas employment program has incidents involving OFWs in domestic workers,” Villar said. and subjected to abuse and ex- stretched beyond 40 years, and Kuwait,” Villar said. The Senator noted that ploitation. Let us do everything is in dire need of a comprehen- “I urge the DFA and DoLE overseas domestic work is possible to make sure that they sive review. to use this opportunity to jointly fraught with risk especially are hired by good employers,” “Let us have a fair and look at the plight of our domes- when the cultural and legal en- she added. honest assessment of how the tic workers overseas, not just in vironment is far different from government and in particular, Kuwait, but in other countries the Philippines. our embassies and consulates as well, so that reforms can be “While investigating the Dr. Josephine Villafuerte De Lima renews year-long plea to Facebook to take down fake news against her (Photo: www.davaotoday.com) residents but migrants or workers in the city had vac- By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent transients. cinated some 13,000 children, Assistant Health Secretary aged 5 months to 5 years, as Sen. last constantly targeted by fake news ways into our mainstream news trolls. These fake news destroy January 21 renewed her year- stories, said Facebook should media and consequently, con- not only individuals but also Abdullah Dumama, director of Monday as part of the city’s long appeal for Facebook to take exercise some responsibility over fused the public between real and their families,” she said. of the Department of Health outbreak response immuniza- down the fake news stories and the content and posts it allows to fake news,” she wrote. Last January 2017, De (DOH) in Southern tion operations to prevent the clips against her. be disseminated and shared on De Lima also attached in Lima delivered a fiery privilege region, confirmed the sudden virus from spreading further. “It has been a year since I its platform. the letter a long list of the fake speech to denounce the unabated increase in suspected measles She said they also em- last wrote a letter to Facebook In a letter she wrote and news peddled against her as proliferation of fake news in the cases here, which the DOH said barked on a massive infor- expressing my concern over the sent to Facebook Philippines distributed on Facebook — such Internet and other social net- reached 224 cases. mation campaign, teaching continued proliferation of fake Country Director Digs Dimagiba as reports that falsely claim she working sites, where she likened He said the rising number parents how to spot signs of news that has been populating last January 2017, De Lima ad- had stepped down as senator, fake news to a “virus” that could of suspected measles cases was possible infection. (inquirer. our social media, notably on dressed the continued re-distri- that she purchased a $6-million “bring about a zombie apoca- a cause for alarm, since deaths net) mansion in New York, that the lypse.” had been reported. UK congratulated the Senate for ousting De Lima, and that the de- tained De Lima was hospitalized after attempting secret suicide. The former justice secretary reiterated that Facebook should find creative and innovative ways and means to end the mali- cious propagation of fake news stories and stop their continued re-distribution, especially by paid trolls and hackers. She also noted that these (L-R) Sen. Leila De Lima and Facebook fake news stories are negatively Philippine Country Director Digs Dimagiba affecting our national discourse (Photos: www.ibtimes.co.uk / www. marketing-interactive.com) and public opinion. She said the continued dis- tribution of false stories has also Facebook but the letter remains bution of fake news stories and become a tool for power-hungry unanswered,” said De Lima. clips on the platform. public officials to feed the public “As the world’s most-used She expressed concern over with poison and lies to propel and largest social network, the the existence of “shadowy peo- their political career to greater people behind Facebook should ple” maintaining questionable heights. take disinformation seriously, accounts to deliberately tarnish The Bicol lawmaker further considering that not everyone is the name of some respectable urged the public to be more well-versed about the distinction people through the distribution critical about the content they between fake news, propaganda, of disinformation disguised as read and shared on-line, espe- satire and fiction,” she added. legitimate news stories. cially those stories which were De Lima, who has been de- “These fake news stories maliciously peddled by govern- tained over illegal drug charges, have also mutated into fake ment officials who have political said these news are obviously videos and audio clips that have agenda to destroy their critics. meant to deliberately mislead the been recklessly shared and re- “Let’s not believe everything public and besmirch her reputa- shared. Unfortunately, some of that we read on-line and easily tion. these fake news stories, videos fall victim into the proliferation The Senator, who has been and audio clips have found their of fabricated stories and online January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star A3 ph news Duterte says he’ll ‘slap’ communist party founder, Palace backs bid to rearrest Reyes in reply to Sison’s call for massive march vs. gov’t On the eve of the seventh anniver- sary of the killing of broadcaster Gerry By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent Ortega, Malacañang threw its support behind the Office of the Solicitor Gen- President on January 21 of their cause. eral’s (OSG) motion asking the Court of resorted anew to what observers call “cheap The President appeared to have been agi- Appeals (CA) to reconsider its contro- potshots,” saying he would slap in the face tated by Sison’s call for the youth to hold mass versial decision freeing the accused Communist Party of the Philippines founding protests similar to the 1970 rally. brains of the murder, former Palawan chairman Jose Maria Sison if they meet eye- Presidential Spokesperson Gov. Joel Reyes. to-eye. merely shrugged off Sison’s call for the youth Presidential spokesperson Harry “Let’s meet, Sison. I’ll slap you. You’ll see. to stage protests against the administration, Roque on Tuesday said the OSG did the No jokes. Son of a bitch, I’ll really slap you. saying he hoped the CPP founder had enough right thing in asking the appeals court Conceited demon,” Duterte told his former grandkids to heed his call for mass action. to order the rearrest of Reyes for the professor whom he attacked for murder of Ortega in 2011. harboring a “bankrupt” ideol- “That is the right decision. I saw the ogy. motion for reconsideration of the Solici- “You think you are god… tor General on the earlier decision that you just kill people.,” the Presi- there was no probable cause [against dent further taunted Sison. Reyes],” Roque said in a media briefing. Duterte assured Sison Separate standard would not be coming home Solicitor General Jose Calida on without getting a taste of his Monday asked the appeals court to re- ire, after he recently called on consider its decision, saying it imposed communist cadres to emulate its own standard of probable cause the riots of the “First Quarter different from what was required by law Storm” to overthrow the Du- and not warranted by the circumstances terte administration. of the case. The First Quarter Storm re- (L-R) President Rodrigo Duterte and CPP founder Jose Maria Sison In a 53-page motion for reconsid- fers to the series of mass action (Photo: www.dutertenewstoday.com) eration, Calida asked the court’s Special protests against then President Eleventh Division to reverse its Jan. 4 Ferdinand Marcos during the ruling that revoked Reyes’ indictment first three months of 1970, shortly after his The problem with Sison, Roque said, is he and ordered him freed from prison due Former Palawan Gov. Joel Reyes landslide victory against Sergio Osmeña Jr., is stuck in history. He never moved beyond the to lack of probable cause. (Photo: www.pressreader.com) son of a former president. First Quarter Storm. The OSG also asked that the crimi- Reyes was “alarming” and “a travesty of jus- In an on-line interview, Sison called on the Duterte terminated the peace talks with nal information against Reyes be reinstated tice.” Filipino youth to launch mass marches and ral- the Reds last November, 2017, through Procla- and the proceedings at a Puerto Princesa City Roque served as a private prosecutor on lies similar to the first Quarter storm of 1970. mation No. 360, following the NPA’s ambush court against him to continue. the case until June 2016 when he joined Con- Speaking before soldiers in Mawab town, in Talakag, Bukidnon which left a policeman “The admissibility of evidence, their gress as a party-list representative. Compostela Valley, the President likened the and a four-month-old baby dead last Novem- evidentiary weight, probative value and the SC decision communist insurgency in the Philippines to ber 10, 2017. credibility of witnesses are matters that are He said there was a prior Supreme Court illegal drugs which has been causing suffering On December 5, Duterte signed Proclama- best left to be resolved in a full-blown trial,” decision on the case that stated it was “up to the Filipino people. tion no. 374 declaring the Reds as terrorists Calida said. to the regional trial court to determine the Duterte said he wanted the communist and have them arrested under the Human The CA on Jan. 4 ruled that the Puerto existence of probable cause, which had been movement destroyed in the same way that the Security Act. Princesa City court abused its discretion when already determined by the regional trial court.” government was doing war against the prolif- He earlier ordered the arrest of non-armed it decided that there was probable cause to Ortega was shot dead by a hired gunman eration of drugs in the country. legal fronts for conspiracy to commit terror- charge Reyes with involvement in the killing of in January 2011 and Reyes was later identified He noted that the communist party was ism under the HSA, and the re-arrest of those Ortega on Jan. 24, 2011. as the mastermind. getting desperate “because there is no second temporarily released as an act of good faith “Call it a second chance afforded him by The investigation led to the indictment echelon in your organization now.” He insisted to the peace talks aside from those who are God or a lucky three-point play for him, to of Reyes, his younger brother, former Coron the movement has become irrelevant, adding already old. use a common street lingo, or a miracle in his Mayor Mario Reyes, and several people for- the public had been questioning the sincerity favor, [Reyes] must by all means be exonerated merly connected with the provincial govern- from the charge,” the appeals court said. ment of Palawan. (Jerome Aning, Philip C. Mayon Volcano posts 2 events of lava fountaining – Philvolcs But Roque said the CA ruling freeing Tubeza / inquirer.net) affected areas 3 kilometers south-southwest from the rumbling Mt. Mayon. On Monday, Phivolcs raised Alert Level 4 at the Mayon Volcano as it spewed thick, huge columns of ash, and dumped heavy ash fall over nearby towns in Albay province. Alert Level 4, Phivolcs explained, means that the ex- plosion is hazardous and that Mayon Volcano a major eruption is imminent. (Photo: www.cbsnews.com) (Faye Orellana / inquirer. The Mayon Volcano lava fountain of 300 meters in net) posted two episodes of lava height caused ash plume that fountaining early Wednes- affected areas 5 kilometers day morning, the Philippine southwest from the volcano. Institute of Seismology and Prior this, Phivolcs said CALL US TO ADVERTISE Volcanology (Phivolcs) said. the Mayon Volcano spewed a The latest occurrence 500-meter high lava around 415-278- was at 6:02 a.m., according to 2:33 a.m., which consequently 0692 Eric Arbona of Phivolcs, when produced ash plume that A4 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 ph news Malacañang airs concern over growing hunger in PH PH economy closed 2017 on Malacañang expressed tary hunger at least once in the The administration has concern over the increase in the past three months, 4.1 points also been providing educa- number of Filipinos who expe- higher than the 11.8 percent, tional, livelihood and health a high note – Reuters poll rienced involuntary hunger in or 2.7 million families, last assistance to the poor and the last quarter of 2017, accord- September. marginalized sectors, and a so- By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent ing to presidential spokesper- The incidence of invol- cial pension for senior citizens son Harry Roque. untary hunger in the fourth and the indigent. There is also MANILA – According expansion this year, backed by est rates aggressively in order He said on Tuesday that quarter was the highest since a supplementary feeding pro- to a fourth-quarter data last higher infrastructure spend- to clamp down on inflation is the Duterte administration was the 17.2 percent recorded in gram for poor students, he said. January 23, the Philippines’ ing, though, noting that the small,” Capital Economics said, dealing with the matter. December 2014. SWS said hunger was 14.7 economy was expected to have scenario could steer the Central agreeing with the BSP gover- An estimated 3.6 million Roque said the adminis- percent (457,000 families) in ended 2017 on a solid footing, Bank to raise interest rates. nor’s views. Filipino families said they expe- tration was working hard to Metro Manila last December with growth in the last quarter “Manila posted its biggest- According to Reuters, the rienced hunger last December, reduce the vulnerabilities of from 11.7 percent (364,000 gathering momentum from ever trade deficit in November Philippines had a 6.5 to 7.5 per- about 900,000 families more families. families); 17.7 percent (1.8 “strong domestic demand, ro- as imports of capital goods cent growth target in 2017 year than the previous quarter as “We’re expanding econom- million families) from 13.8 bust government spending, and surged. While the deficit point- and aims at 7.0 to 8.0 percent hunger rose in all geographi- ic opportunities in agriculture, (1.4 million) percent in the a rebound in farm output.” ed to strong economic activity, this year. cal areas, according to Social forestry, fishery sector to rest of Luzon; 13.3 percent According to Reuters, the widening trade gap has PH GDP grows by 6.7 per- Weather Stations (SWS). An address the challenges of food (589,000 families) from 9.7 the fourth-quarter data show added to worries the current cent in 2017 average Filipino family has five security, while improving our percent (427,000 families) in the Southeast Asian economy account deficit could persist in In a report by Rappler, members. people’s income earning ability, the Visayas; and 15.3 percent expanding by 1.8 percent in 2018 and continue to pressure for 2018, the World Bank and According to an SWS sur- enhancing workers’ employ- (802,000 families) from 9.7 October to December 2017. The the peso,” the poll said. the Asian Development Bank vey, conducted last Dec. 8-16, ability through Tesda’s skills percent (506,000 families) in Reuters poll has also found that “The fact that the rise in (ADB) both expect the Philip- 15.9 percent of the respondents upgrade program,” he said in a Mindanao. (Leila B. Salaverria it expanded by 1.3 percent in imports is being driven by a pines to remain as one of the said they experienced involun- press briefing. / inquirer.net) the third quarter of 2017. surge in imports of capital fastest-growing economies in “Compared with a year ear- goods, which is linked to the the Southeast Asian region, lier, growth was forecast at 6.7 government’s infrastructure with forecasts of 6.7 percent If I exceed my term, shoot me, Duterte orders troops percent, slower than the third drive rather than an unsus- and 6.8 percent GDP growth. quarter’s upwardly revised 7.0 tainable consumer boom, is According to the two Malacañang expressed higher than the 11.8 percent, marginalized sectors, and a so- percent but still enviable by encouraging,” Capital Econom- institutions, the effect of more concern over the increase in the or 2.7 million families, last cial pension for senior citizens global standards,” the Reuters ics said in a research note from government spending as well as number of Filipinos who expe- September. and the indigent. There is also poll noted. Reuters. a recovering agriculture sector rienced involuntary hunger in The incidence of invol- a supplementary feeding pro- “Recovery in agriculture, According to Reuters, also contributed to “better- the last quarter of 2017, accord- untary hunger in the fourth gram for poor students, he said. strong government stimulus some economists have called than-expected” third quarter ing to presidential spokesper- quarter was the highest since SWS said hunger was 14.7 and an intensified infrastruc- for tighter monetary policy, of 2017 growth, which was son Harry Roque. the 17.2 percent recorded in percent (457,000 families) in ture push had combined with “warning that the economy recently revised upwards to 7 He said on Tuesday that December 2014. Metro Manila last December upbeat business spending and runs the risk of overheat- percent. the Duterte administration was Roque said the adminis- from 11.7 percent (364,000 resilient household consump- ing from double-digit credit “The government’s own dealing with the matter. tration was working hard to families); 17.7 percent (1.8 tion to produce vigorous growth, a rapid increase in target range for this year is An estimated 3.6 million reduce the vulnerabilities of million families) from 13.8 growth,” ING economist Joey investment, and the stellar pace higher than last year’s at be- Filipino families said they expe- families. (1.4 million) percent in the Cuyegkeng said told Reuters. of economic expansion.” tween 7 percent and 8 percent rienced hunger last December, “We’re expanding econom- rest of Luzon; 13.3 percent “Farm output, which ac- “Inflation was on track to growth. The Duterte admin- about 900,000 families more ic opportunities in agriculture, (589,000 families) from 9.7 counts for about a tenth of the meet the (Philippine) govern- istration is banking on its ambi- than the previous quarter as forestry, fishery sector to percent (427,000 families) in Philippines’ gross domestic ment’s 2 to 4 percent target tious infrastructure program hunger rose in all geographi- address the challenges of food the Visayas; and 15.3 percent product, grew 4 percent in this year and the next,” Central and the newly implemented tax cal areas, according to Social security, while improving our (802,000 families) from 9.7 2017, reversing the previous Bank Gov. Nestor Espenilla reform law,” Rappler reported. Weather Stations (SWS). An people’s income earning ability, percent (506,000 families) in year’s 1.4 percent decline and said, downplaying the econo- Meanwhile, National average Filipino family has five enhancing workers’ employ- Mindanao. (Leila B. Salaverria boosting economic growth,” the mists’ concerns. Economic and Development members. ability through Tesda’s skills / inquirer.net) poll noted. “We think concerns that Authority Chief Ernesto Pernia, According to an SWS sur- upgrade program,” he said in a Reuters has also noted the Philippines is overheating in an interview with the ABS- vey, conducted last Dec. 8-16, press briefing. that the Philippines has “one of are exaggerated. As a result, the CBN News Channel, said he is 15.9 percent of the respondents The administration has Asia’s fastest-growing econo- risk that the Central Bank will “happy enough” with the local said they experienced involun- also been providing educa- mies,” with analysts expecting suddenly need to put its foot economy’s performance in tary hunger at least once in the tional, livelihood and health the economy to sustain brisk on the brake and raise inter- 2017. past three months, 4.1 points assistance to the poor and FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955 January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star A5 sports ONE Championship partners with Global Citizen to fight poverty Philippines and Singapore. “I’m so excited to be a Glob- news al Citizen ambassador. I can’t wait to get started and really learn more about this awesome Stephen Curry, Warriors use big program and movement,” said Lee, the women’s atomweight world champion. second half to beat Knicks “I can’t wait to take action OAKLAND, Calif. — Kevin Michael Beasley scored 21 ible.” and really spread the word about Durant mouthed off to official points and Courtney Lee contrib- Golden State had the same it. I think it’s so important that James Williams, got tossed late uted 20 as New York lost for the four All-Stars a year ago. they’re going across Asia and and might have cost himself an- third time in four games and sixth “I’m proud of them, amazing across the world and I think other assist during a career night in eight. to have four All-Stars two years in it’s a great partnership and I’m of dishing out the ball. “We got lucky a little bit in a row,” Kerr said. “We’re obviously (Photo: www.bworldonline.com) happy to be a part of it.” “I told him he was wrong,” the first half,” Lee said. “They were really lucky to have these guys Wei Soo, co-founder of Durant said afterward of arguing missing a lot of opens shots, and all together at once on the roster. Eyeing to make an impact having amazing fighters and Global Citizen and managing with Williams in the first half over then in the second half those shots What I love is they’re so unself- a carry. that they were missing went down ish, they play together so well. on a much bigger scale, ONE athletes. These guys are heroes director, also expressed his Stephen Curry scored 17 of and we weren’t able to get stops That’s why they’re all All-Stars. It Championship on Monday not only to their country but excitement over the partner- his 32 points in the third quarter and get out and convert on those wouldn’t work if they were selfish launched a partnership with to the world,” said Sityodtong ship, knowing the kind of impact ONE can create with its growing to go with seven assists and six opportunities.” and looking for their own shot, Global Citizen, a non-govern- in a press conference at City of rebounds, and the Golden State The Warriors opened the looking for their own points.” ment organization which aims to Dreams Manila. popularity particularly in Asia. “I think ONE championship Warriors used a big second half to third on a 16-9 burst to lead for TIP-INS provide a better life for every- “And we’re going to use beat the New York Knicks 123-112 the first time all night, then went Knicks: F Kristaps Porzin- and its fans can have massive one. our platform and we’re going to on Tuesday night. on to score 100 or more points for gis was held out with left knee impact in terms of its reach of The team up is only fitting use it to change the world for Durant added 14 points, a a 14th straight game. irritation. … The Knicks dropped as ONE, the biggest MMA orga- the better. That’s why we have billions throughout the region career-high 14 assists and two Draymond Green had 12 to 3-7 on the road vs. the West- nization in Asia, adheres to the partners like Global Citizen and and throughout the world and blocks before his ejection with points, six assists and five re- ern Conference. … New York’s 14 advocacies of Global Citizen with amazing heroes like Brandon particularly to the values that 2:50 left for a second technical. bounds as the Warriors finished turnovers led to 16 Golden State Chatri Sityodtong, ONE chair- Vera, Angela Lee and Eduard they espouse and talk about. The Zaza Pachulia added 13 points in with 40 assists. points. man and CEO, reaffirming that Folayang, whom our children values in martial arts which is Golden State’s seventh straight Curry and Thompson shot a Warriors: Durant notched part the promotion’s responsi- look up to.” crucial to the region,” Soo said. victory in the series. combined 4 for 16 in the first half, his 16th career double-double bility is to contribute into easing Vera, Lee and Folayang, “And those are also the values “Second half, his whole thing including 2 of 10 on 3s, before of points and assists. … Rookie out conflicts in the society. three of the most popular ONE that we want.” (Mark Giongco / was like he’s trying to get me. … Curry found his stroke and wound Jordan Bell missed his second “As I’ve said before, in fighters were named Global inquirer.net) He was searching for me, he’s up 9 for 19 overall in his 14th 30- straight game with inflammation looking to try to tech me up to get point performance of the season. in his left ankle. … Golden State’s ONE, we are more than just Citizen ambassadors for the me back because he’s still got his Thompson struggled to nine points winning streak vs. the Knicks is feelings hurt from the first half,” on 4-for-10 shooting, missing all its longest since a nine-game un- Pacio unfazed by last-minute opponent change Durant said. “That’s what’s been three of his 3-point tries. beaten run against New York from Joshua Pacio is likely on was forced to withdraw due to weeks to adjust their game plan. going on around the league the The Knicks made 11 of their November 1963-November 1964. his way to a title shot if he goes But Pacio isn’t concerned whole year, a bunch of that. initial 20 shots while the Warriors The Warriors have won 24 of the “I gotta keep my head a little began 8 of 18 and 1 for 8 from last 30 in the series. on to hurdle his Chinese op- with the sudden change. bit but I was upset. I’m a human behind the arc to fall behind 29-19 QUOTEABLE ponent Min Qiang Lan in the “I’m not worried because being, too, I get upset,” Durant — Curry missed four of his first Three years after Thompson’s co-main event of ONE: Global fighters in the international added. five field goals. 37-point quarter on Jan. 23, 2015, Superheroes on Friday. stage are expected to cope up Curry made 8 of 15 from deep Andre Iguodala, who had against the Kings, Kerr recalled But as much as the Fili- with the changes and that’s while sporting sneakers featuring dealt with a bruised left calf that the moment. pino strawweight contender how fighters’ mentality should the faces of his daughters Riley kept him out the previous two “It was almost surreal, the wants to get his hands on the be,” Pacio said. and Ryan and the message “I can games, returned to the Warriors frenzy. It was the combination of gold, he doesn’t want to get Pacio said there are do all things.” rotation and scored five points in Klay going crazy and licking his ahead of himself especially similarities between his initial “I had those in my closet for 20 minutes off the bench. chops and his teammates and the with a big bout coming up foe and replacement in terms a while and it’s actually something ALL KINDS OF ALL-STARS joy that they had for him and with against a dangerous opponent. of their strengths which is with (Under Armour) you can Green and Thompson were him,” Kerr said. “They were just obviously design your shoes so I named All-Star reserves, joining hunting shots for him. It was like a “Of course, I want the striking, but added that Lan did it a long time ago,” Curry said. Curry — a captain — and Durant. pack of hyenas.” belt but for me, right now, I’m is the more lethal striker than “Just walked by ’em today and was The Warriors became the first UP NEXT not thinking about getting a the two. like, ‘all right, let me go back and team in NBA history to have four Knicks: At Denver on Thurs- title shot just yet,” Pacio told “We saw a video of one rock the Curry 1s with my daugh- All-Stars in back-to-back seasons. day night continuing a seven-game INQUIRER.net in Filipino on Joshua Pacio of Lan’s fights and he’s better (Photo: www.kabayanweekly.com) ters on the side to give me a little It will be the ninth time in NBA road trip. Tuesday. than Pongsiri in striking so I inspiration.’ It’s nice being home history that a team has had four Warriors: Host Timberwolves “I still need to gain more prepared really hard in train- and all that kind of stuff.” All-Stars play in the game. on Thursday night looking for a experience for me to get to the an injury. ing and that’s what I’m going The Warriors bounced back “For us to all go is pretty spe- fourth straight home win in the level of champions,” he added. ONE announced the op- to showcase on Friday.” (Mark from Saturday’s eight-point defeat cial,” Thompson said. “First time series and third overall. (inquirer. Pacio is supposed to fight ponent change on Friday, giving Giongco / inquirer.net) at Houston to improve to 10-0 fol- in NBA history to have four guys net) Pongsiri Misatit, but the Thai Pacio’s camp less than two lowing a loss this season. go two years in a row is incred- A6 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 opinion PerryScope Street Talk China plays Duterte for a sucker Are Filipinos racists like Trump? GREG B. MACABENTA PERRY DIAZ experience with the JMSU, where our country was placed in a very disadvantageous position… According to critics, ing products. Recently, Mgdalo is bound to happen again in the case of Benham President Donald Trump A big market for hair coloring has also been party-list Rep. Gary Rise.” Indeed, it’s déjà vu all over again. is not just a racist, he is created with the average Pinay’s perception that Alejano exposed a In my column, “China sets eyes on Benham also a barefaced liar and blonde is beautiful – or, at least, brownish is “secret deal” worked Rise” (September 30, 2016), I wrote: [In July a coward who doesn’t chic. out between President 2016] “China Daily published a report about have the cojones to ad- But that is the harmless aspect of this Rodrigo Duterte and the China’s ‘secret undersea exploration’ in the mit his spiteful attitude “upward striving.” The bad part is the way dark- Chinese that would allow Benham Rise area. The report said that China towards people of color. skinned persons are regarded. On TV and in the the Institute of Oceanol- discovered massive mineral deposits. It also said This biting criticism fol- movies, dark-skinned characters are the butt ogy of Chinese Academy that the volume of natural gas deposits in the lows Trump’s denial that of jokes and variations on the Cinderella and of Sciences to conduct area was at par with what was discovered in the he had referred to African nations, as well as Ugly Duckling plots invariably have the heroine a marine scientific research in the Benhan Rise Spratly Islands. Haiti – all predominantly populated by blacks - starting out as a dark-skinned rag doll who is (also known as Philippine Rise). “With China’s goal of controlling the vast as “shit-hole countries.” transformed into a fair-complexioned princess. According to the Department of Environ- Western Pacific, which includes the East China While Sen. Lindsey Graham, a Republican, Of course, the Spaniards cannot claim ment and Natural Resources (DENR), this Sea (ECS), South China Sea (SCS), and the Philip- and Sen. Dick Durbin, a Democrat, have con- sole credit for our white-is-beautiful mentality. 13-million-hectare area off the coast of Aurora pine Sea, the entire Western Pacific would be firmed that Trump did make the racist remarks America’s colonization of the Philippines at the province is potentially rich in mineral, natural gas transformed into ‘Lake Beijing.’ The Philippines at a bipartisan meeting in the White House to turn of the century provided another dimension deposits, and manganese nodules that are vital would be right in the middle of the lake, isolated discuss immigration matters, the Republican to what I refer to as our “inferiority complex- from the rest of the world. ‘Lake Beijing’ would in the production of steel. Studies conducted by leadership has been deafeningly silent on this is- ion.” DENR have also shown large deposits of methane also encompass the mineral-rich Benham Rise as sue, and some have actually supported Trump’s It isn’t a compliment when Filipinos are in solid form (methane hydrate or methane ice). well.” denial that he ever made his vulgar statement. described as having been reared for centuries in Further studies also showed that natural gas de- Grand Plan Ironically, this makes the neo-Nazis more a convent and, subsequently, indoctrinated in posits in the area would enable the Philippines to In June 2013, an intriguing article appeared forthright and truthful – in fact, even manlier – Hollywood. achieve energy sufficiency. Benham Rise is larger in the Want China Times titled, “China to take the than Trump and the Republicans because they But this is not unique to the Philippines. In than the island of Luzon. Second Island Chain by 2020.” It says: “Within have openly declared their racism and contempt It did not then come as a surprise that seven years [only two years from now], China will some Asian countries (like India) and in Latin for people of color, and to hell with what others energy-hungry China was anxious to explore be able to control the Second Island Chain — a America, latent racism is still prevalent, with think. Benham Rise the moment the United Nations series of island groups that runs north to south the fairer skinned being regarded as superior to approved the Philippines’ claim that Benham from the Japanese archipelago to the Bonin and In the wake of the racism-laced controversy those with darker complexions. Rise was an extension of her continental shelf. In Marshall islands. in the US, which has reverberated across the The arrival of Christopher Columbus in December 2013, the U.N. Convention on the Law “The article also said: In 1982, Admiral Liu world, Filipinos in America are, in a manner of the New World, which is honored as a public of the Sea (UNCLOS) informed the DENR – with Huaqing, the former commander of the PLA Navy speaking, anxiously waiting for the other shoe holiday in the US, is observed as Dia de la Raza finality -- that Benham Rise is part of the coun- and the mastermind of China’s modern naval to drop. or Day of the Race in Mexico and other coun- try’s continental shelf and territory. As such, it strategy, said that it would be necessary for China Will Trump eventually come around to call- tries that came under the heel of the Spanish is not subject to any maritime boundary disputes to control the First and Second Island Chains by ing the Philippines a shit-hole country? Hope- conquistadors. and claims. 2010 and 2020. The PLA Navy must be ready fully not. Of course, we can guess President While that day commemorates the Hispanic After Alejano’s exposé was reported in the to challenge US domination over the Western Rodrigo Duterte’s automatic response: heritage of Latin America, it also recalls the news, critics questioned the palace’s approval Pacific and the Indian Ocean in 2040. If China is “P—ina mo rin!” genocide committed by Columbus and those of the project and demanded that Malacañang able to dominate the Second Island Chain seven At any rate, no matter how much Trump who came after him, who literally wiped out, not withdraw the approval, which they said would be years from now, the East China Sea will become and the Republicans deny it, and no matter how just the native population but their traditions a threat to the country’s maritime security. How- the backyard of the PLA Navy.” religiously America observes Martin Luther and cultures, as well. ever, in an attempt to blunt the criticisms, presi- With China’s attempt to explore – and even- King Day, racism is still a harsh reality in the US This may have been the most severe mani- dential spokesman Harry Roque announced that tually claim – Benham Rise, Admiral Liu’s “grand – but not just in the US. It is also a harsh reality festation of the white man’s superiority, not it was President Rodrigo Duterte who personally plan” to dominate the Second Island Chain and in many parts of the world.. just militarily, politically and economically but made the decision to let China conduct scientific establish Chinese hegemony over the entire West- And, oh yes, in the Philippines, as well. also in terms of the psyche of those who were research in the Benham Rise. ern Pacific, would come to fruition. When I was still actively delivering talks colonized. Foremost of those who criticized Duterte’s Currently, China has two aircraft carriers and on multi-cultural marketing, one of the points I It was hoped that the election of Barack decision was Supreme Court Senior Associate a third to be completed pretty soon. With several often made was the Filipinos’ perception of how Obama as the first African-American president Justice Antonio Carpio who commented: ““If a more in the works, China would be able to extend we look. I would use Filipino movie personali- would usher in an age of racial enlightenment bully has squatted on your front yard, and re- air power throughout the entire Western Pacific ties to illustrate my point, with photos of the in the US. In fact, that may simply have further quests to look at your backyard, would you grant and Indian Ocean. fair-skinned, tall-nosed, thin-lipped mestizo threatened the white supremacists who still the request of the bully?” He noted that China China also has plans to build floating nuclear stars as “the way we think we look” and photos thrive in substantial numbers across America, has squatted on the West Philippine Sea (South power plants and position them throughout the of brown-skinned Malayan-looking character It seems that the election of Donald Trump China Sea) and refuses to leave despite the ruling entire region. She can also build artificial islands actors as “the way we actually look.” to the presidency has given the Jim Crow advo- of the United Nations Convention on the Law of in the Benham Rise just like she did in the South Call it denial or upward strivings, the desire cates something to literally crow about. China Sea. She can then build processing plants the Sea (UNCLOS) tribunal. “The Philippines to look tisay/tisoy isn’t new. This attitude goes Through the years, Trump was always would be dumb (bugok) to grant China’s request,” to extract methane gas from methane hydrate. back to colonial days when Las Islas Filipinas regarded with uneasiness because of his racist Carpio said in an e-mail statement to CNN Philip- This was once an expensive process; however, were subjugated by the Spaniards. Lapulapu’s tendencies. In the 1970s, the FBI investigated pines. He explained that by refusing to accept China has since developed less costly method. All massacre of Magellan and his men could not Trump for discriminating against blacks in the award of the UNCLOS arbitral, China is not that she needs now are vast deposits of methane stop the white man’s dominance of the natives. his rental apartments. During the presidential accepting its obligation under UCLOS (China is a hydrate and Benham Rise has plenty of them. Thus was white superiority established and in- campaign, he characterized Mexicans as rapists signatory of UNCLOS). [Source: REUTERS Janu- Philippines’ crucial role grained in the Pinoys’ psyche. And with that was ary 15, 2018] The Philippines plays a crucial role in China’s and criminals and, as the Republican presiden- developed latent racism. Déjà vu grand plan. Whoever controls the Philippines tial nominee, he questioned the credentials of Those of us who consider ourselves relative- China’s attempt to explore Benham Rise is would also control passage to the Western Pacific a US district court judge because of the latter’s nothing new. In 2005-2008, China, in partner- through the Bashi Channel, which separates ly enlightened may never openly admit it, but Mexican heritage. Among his very first acts as ship with the Philippines and Vietnam explored Luzon from Taiwan. The other passageway is white trumps brown and, even more so, dark or President, Trump issued executive orders dis- the oil-rich Recto Bank (Reed Bank) in the the Miyako Strait between Okinawa and Taiwan. black in many aspects of our lives. criminating against intending immigrants from West Philippine Sea near the Spratly Islands. But Japan has the capability to stop China from Rizal parodied this attitude in Noli Me Muslim countries. Known as the Joint Marine Seismic Undertaking passing through Miyako Strait, while the Philip- Tangere. His characterization of Dona Victo- Now comes his explosive slur against “shit- (JSMU), China started claiming Recto Bank as pines doesn’t have any military force at the Bashi rina de los Reyes de Espadana who tried very hole” – meaning predominantly black - coun- part of her territory the moment the JSMU was Channel. In the event that China took possession hard to look like a Spanish mestiza by wearing tries. signed. of Luzon, the geostrategic significance of Luzon heavy make-up, among other pretensions, is still Of course, the ostensibly enlightened Many believe that then President Gloria is removed; thus, allowing China unrestricted ac- apparent in the Philippines. As a matter, even Pinoys frown on such blatant racism - until they Macapagal Arroyo had sold out the country to cess to the Philippine Sea. more so. are asked how they would like their daughters to China, giving the Chinese total access to informa- China had coveted Luzon ever since she gave To this day, a whiter, fairer skin is what marry people from those “shit-hole countries.”. tion on oil and natural gas deposits in the Rector up possession of Luzon in the 15th century. many Filipino women (and even men) aspire ([email protected]) Bank. As one lawmaker had said, “Our bad TO PAGE A7 for, thus creating a huge market for skin whiten-

council. “How did they come up with the cal- As I See It culation for the garbage and the food scraps?” he asked. “Nobody can fill up the food scraps. The Opinions expressed by our writers and Garbage issue in Milpitas Nobody can. We need more on the garbage side,” contributors do not in any way reflect the he continued. opinion of the management of Fortune News ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO ments and unacceptable behavior by the drivers. Keli Pellegrini of Milpitas Sanitation, re- Media Inc. Milpitas at one time Unlike the old contractor, the bins were divided sponding to the question said the company had Fortune News Media Inc. was dubbed as a “stink into two each bin which reduces capacity of the taken cues from the study made by the California Publisher city” due to the odor that container bins. Others say the city should not Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery Harvey Barkin the pile of garbage being have changed the contractor in the first place. that showed “an average of 30 to 40 percent of Editor-in-Chief dumped at a San Jose- Most of the anger evolved on the size of the waste is food-related and that food-soiled paper based Newby Island compost section in the new split landfill bin. They is an acceptable disposal in that side of the bin”. Edwina Aniag Complaints were also raised on the high fees, Vice President for Marketing and Operations Landfill smells in that also complained of driver’s treatment of extra side of the city, espe- garbage bags where they just put it aside and not almost triple the fee we were being charged when Gary De Guzman cially during summer. picking them up. They ignored the extra bags we were with the old contractor the Republic Vice President for Community Relations While the old contractor and actually, it happened to me also three times. Services. Tim Chang wrote “… why are we paying Anchet Manosca dumps the garbage in a landfill in San Jose, the They didn’t pick up my extra bags of garbage. I more and getting less service?” As to extra gar- Creative and Production Manager odor which is carried by the wind can be smelled heard some residents had taken videos of garbage bage, he said that “the truck simply pushed the Atty. Crispin Lozano in some parts of Milpitas. The wind carries it to driver’s attitude and inaction over the matter. extra bags off the bin, breaking the bags on the Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis the part of the city adjoining San Jose. So the This is good because it will serve as evidence street. The company says we need to buy stickers Ben Lou / Perry Diaz city council reviewed the contract of Republic when we meet with the new contractor. for the extra bag… which is much unread noble”. Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko Services due to residents’ complaints and… they David DeRosa complained he put a garbage Vice Mayor Marsha Grilli last week said that Columnists approved to change it to a new contractor, the bag on top of his full bin and watched the driver the transition to a new garbage collector involves Macon Ramos-Araneta Milpitas Sanitation, which services took effect toss it aside. “I’ve live in Milpitas all my life, and a lengthy public input process. This must be the Corina Oliquino / Lara Climaco reason why the council scheduled the public Daniel Llanto December 2017. The odor somehow disappeared to throw garbage on the floor like that, it’s unac- Correspondents because the new contractor is no longer dumping ceptable to me,” he said. Corroborating DeRosa’s meeting in order for them to listen and feel the the garbage in the Newby landfill, but the quality comments, Councilman Bob Nunez said his wife pulse of the people. Ann Gauna Marketing Associate of services by the new contractor is being ques- had shown him repeatedly a video she took of a Previously, Republic have been providing tioned by most residents. driver doing the same thing. So the shift now is the city unlimited garbage pickup for the last 30 Jho Bule Tuesday last week, Milpitas Mayor Rich Tran from bad odor to poor service and unacceptable years. In terminating the services of Republic, Photographer called for a community meeting in City Hall to driver’s behavior. In fact, extra bags not being the city would save more money but they didn’t Glenda Bule discuss the status of the new contractor and how collected happened to me also three times. I put realize it is at the expense of the residents. The Event Coordinator its services are being delivered to the residents. extra trash in a black garbage bag on top of my resident’s pay more this time, almost triple the Residents who attended the meeting gave some full bin but the driver put it down and didn’t col- amount they used to pay from the previous con- FilAm Star is published weekly tractor. by Fortune News Media Inc. praise to the new contractor but most of the lect the garbage. www.filamstar.com information aired were complaints or inconve- There were other complaints raised by resi- What’s great though is that the new contrac- niences the residents are having with the new dents during the public meeting conducted by the tor, will not be dumping the garbage to the San Headquarters: contractor. city council. Jose-based Newby Island landfill which gave 1028 Mission St., 2/F, Many residents were upset over Milpitas Some residents questioned the logic behind Milpitas its reputation for stink. San Francisco, CA 94103; Sanitation’s contract and the quality of service the splitting of the bins division of sizes. A disc Mayor Tran repeatedly told the residents Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 being extended to residents. Issues ranged from jockey who lived in Milpitas since 1956 Henry gathered that evening at City Hall which lasted Email: [email protected] too small compartments to unnecessary compart- Nichols was one of them who questioned the TO PAGE A7 January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star A7 SENATE, HOUSE LOCKED amend the Constitution without the concurrence DFA ACCUSES HUMAN said. ... FROM PAGE A1 of the Senate, adding that they would not wait for ... FROM PAGE A1 “Human Rights Watch is among those that the Senate to join them. has been deliberately mis-representing the figures outnumber the senators. The Senate, however, believes that Alvarez is of the government’s war against illegal drugs. to make it appear that there exists a culture of In a TV news interview, Alvarez said the bluffing. The House should wait for the Sen- Cayetano said that, contrary to the claims impunity in the Philippines and that the country’s House is now open to moving the plebiscite on ate’s approval before Congress convenes into a of Human Rights Watch, the number of drug democratic institutions are at risk,” Cayetano the draft Cha-cha from this year to the May 2019 constituent assembly, Senate President Aquilino personalities killed is 3,968 in 80,683 anti-illegal said. “These assertions are unfair to the Philip- mid-term senatorial elections. He also said he Pimentel III said after the House transmitted last drugs operations conducted by the government pines and to the Filipino people.” was just joking when he warned congressmen January 22 to the Senate its concurrent Resolu- from 1 July 2016 to 27 December 2017. The said “Democracy has never been more alive in the and local executives that the House would cut off tion 9 seeking Senate concurrence for Congress operations, which also led to the arrest of 119,023 Philippines as we finally we have a government funding for those who refused to support the shift to constitute a constituent assembly (con-ass) to drug personalities, also resulted in the deaths of that we can really say is of the people and for to federalism. amend the 1987 Constitution. 86 law enforcement officers and the wounding of the people and not for the rich and the powerful “My target is to hold it during the barangay Pimentel said the House transmittal of the 226 others. alone,” Cayetano said. “Our booming economy is elections so we can save on funds. But if, for resolution means it is recognizing the proper Cayetano said that under Duterte, the Philip- a testament to good governance and adherence example, we are not able to comply with the re- process, contrary to the statements of Alvarez. pines is doing everything it can to protect the to law.” quirements of the law in time, then we will adjust “They will not do it because they are waiting for rights of everyone, including criminals, unlike The Secretary said proof of this are the lat- (the timetable),” Alvarez said. The House, he our concurrence. This is the proper procedure be- before when government was perceived to be est Social Weather Station surveys that showed added, is flexible enough to also move its time- ing followed by the House to which it requests the protecting only the rights of the powerful. Duterte’s public trust rating at 83 percent during table to 2019 if other unforeseen circumstances concurrence of the Senate. They should now wait “It is because this change is disruptive, those the fourth quarter of the year and his Adminis- cause delays. for the Senate,” Pimentel said. who were previously above the law and those who tration’s public satisfaction rating for rising to a But Alvarez is unflinching on the possibility The Senate received the House concurrent have political interests to advance have resorted record 79 percent during the same period. that the House could convene into a constituent resolution on Cha-cha and referred it to Sen. to a massive disinformation campaign,” Cayetano assembly and propose changes to the Constitu- Francis Pangilinan’s committee but the body as a tion even if the Senate refuses to participate or whole did not act to adopt the said resolution. FOREIGN AFFAIRS DEPT. According to Pangilinan, the administration insists on voting separately for the purpose. Pimentel said Pangilinan, chairman of the ... FROM PAGE A1 should be transparent in its dealings with China If that happens, Sen. Panfilo Lacson warned committee, however, has vowed to submit a com- to allay fears of the people that it is betraying our of “institutional inequality” being trampled upon. mittee report by February. in waters that are subject of dispute. national sovereignty and patrimony. Lacson has filed a resolution calling on the Senate Alvarez said he will talk to Pimentel this week to sit as a constituent assembly and introduce to thresh out differences between the House and 500 NEW MEMBERS the ruling party. amendments to the Constitution on its own. the Senate. ... FROM PAGE A1 But LP has since changed its strategy from Not even the Supreme Court can force the Not all constitutional experts and veteran recruiting politicians to signing up people from Senate to hold joint sessions with the House of lawmakers are enthusiastic about federalism. party’s on-line recruitment platform. “They are the grassroots. “While some of our members are Representatives to introduce amendments to the Former Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr., father of the a mix of professionals, from various sectoral leaving the party, it is not true that the party will 1987 Constitution, Lacson said. He added that as Senate president, warned against rushing the groups, millennials, senior citizens, etc. who are disappear. Our party will grow stronger because a result, the Senate and the House are now locked change for federal system. In a radio interview, fed up with this administration’s abuse of power, you are joining us,” said Sen. Francis Pangilinan, in a stalemate on the amendment of the Constitu- the elder Pimentel said federalism may provide and who are looking for a space to come together LP president who welcomed new members in tion. more economic opportunities but hasty delibera- and resist,” the lawmaker said. Cebu City. Alvarez said the House is proceeding to tions on it will yield disastrous results. Baguilat said the LP would schedule more “We in the Liberal Party, have been through simultaneous oath-takings across the nation for hell and back. And we in the Liberal Party, to PHP 1.6B REFUNDED tors Risa Hontiveros and Grace Poe, Bollack new recruits as he invited the public to join their borrow and paraphrase the words from the poet ... FROM PAGE A1 made a qualified answer. party. Dylan Thomas: ‘We will not go quietly into this “We are not planning to establish a com- Robredo rallied the new and old LP members dark night’,” he said. entific evidence,” Thomas Triomphe, Asia-Pacific pensation fund nor are we aware of any claims to remain true to what is right and not lose heart “The future of the party does not rest on poli- head of Sanofi, told the Senate panel investigating of injury or death found to be causally related to in the face of the “darkness” shrouding the na- ticians but on the people. It’s time to be a party of the DOH’s failed dengue immunization program dengue vaccination in the Philippines or any- tion. “Many ask us if there is still hope, where we the people. A party composed of the people,” said involving 830,000 mostly public school children. where else where Dengvaxia is available today,” are headed. Darkness envelops us. But we should Sen. Bam Aquino, one of the party’s four incum- Senator Richard Gordon, chairman of the she said in an emailed response to FilAm Star. not lose hope. Our party history is about fight- bent senators. Senate blue ribbon committee conducting a joint “Sanofi Pasteur is a responsible company and ing,” Robredo told members of the LP, which she Also at the anniversary rites was former investigation with the committee on health and if there are cases involving injury that is deter- chairs. president Benigno Aquino III who foresaw the demography, bore down on Triomphe during the mined in a court of law to be causally related to Robredo noted that LP’s membership also former ruling party to rise again soon. “Maski na panel’s January 22 hearing, pressing Sanofi to the dengue vaccine, we will abide by any related dwindled during the dictatorship of the late matagal-tagal na tayong binubugbog, mukhang show good faith by helping DOH cover mounting decision on liability,” it was added. Ferdinand Marcos senior. “It seems history is re- malapit na ho tayong bumangon at pabugbog expenses. She also mentioned that Sanofi routinely con- peating itself. But it wasn’t the numbers that mat- muna. Mas maliwanag ‘yung bukas dahil nandito “Sanofi and DOH should be in discussions ducts safety monitoring of Dengvaxia in all coun- tered then. What mattered was the strength of kayong lahat,” Aquino said. on how all these people can be assisted because, tries where it is available, including the Philip- our conviction. What mattered was how strongly Pangilinan stressed that the LP members rightly or wrongly, it has created a very challeng- pines, and maintained that new data released by we fought,” she said. continue to fight for what is just and right, resist ing situation where every pain will now be attrib- the company in November 29 last year “affirms “In the end, what is right always wins. But government abuse where they find it, and criticize uted to Dengvaxia, rightly or wrongly, because it the overall value of introducing Dengvaxia to pro- what is right will only prevail if we don’t stop an abusive administration that seems sensitive to has created that very, very serious threat in the tect against dengue and reduce dengue burden fighting for it,” the Vice-president added. criticism. minds of people,” Gordon said. in high endemic countries like the Philippines.” As with all Filipino political parties, the LP “Habang ang ilang kasamahan o kababayan Media reports of alleged dengue-related This determination has been upheld by the World lost most of its members since President Duterte natin, mga pulitiko at iba pang mga grupo ay deaths have made families of Dengvaxia vac- Health Organization (WHO) in its updated Q&A assumed office with many of LP members, includ- paalis at lumilisan at iniiwan ang Partido Liberal, cinees increasingly anxious. In recent weeks, on the dengue vaccine, Bollack noted. ing some of its highest ranking leaders, jumping hindi totoong tayo ay mawawala,” said Pangili- hospital visits due to suspicions of dengue have The national expert panel constituted by the ship to the Partido Demokratiko Pilipino-Lakas nan. grown in number. Many have proven to be false DOH to study the vaccine has recommended the ng Bayan (PDP-Laban), which replaced the LP as alarms and sent home, but there are fatalities. continued suspension of the mass immuniza- At the Jose B. Lingad Memorial Regional tion program in the Philippines due to “sparse PERRYSCOPE Chinese President Xi Jinping must be ruing data from clinical trials on the administration of Hospital in Pampanga, for instance, about 50 ... FROM PAGE A6 the day Emperor Hongxi left Luzon. Xi’s “China Dengvaxia-vaccinated patients have turned up, less than three doses of Dengvaxia.” However, it Dream” of extending power and influence beyond concurred with the WHO guidance that complet- complaining of loose watery stools, fever, vomit- In 1405, during the reign of the Ming Dynasty her shores, which the Ming Dynasty had six ing the doses for seropositive children, or those ing, cough and colds, rashes and body pain, the in China, Emperor Yung Lo claimed the island centuries ago, is now within reach. It’s no longer confirmed to have had dengue infection before DOH revealed in a January 19 press release. As of Luzon and placed it under his empire. The a dream; it’s more real than ever before. With the Dengvaxia vaccination, “may be protective.” of January 17, it reported that 27 were admitted, Chinese called the island “Lusong” from the South China Sea under China’s virtual de facto The expert panel called on the DOH to imme- all of whom had fever, while 19 received consulta- Chinese characters Lui Sung. The biggest settle- control now, it won’t be long before she gains diately collect serums from Dengvaxia vaccinees tion on outpatient basis. Out of the 27 admitted, ment of Chinese was in Lingayen in Pangasinan. control over Benham Rise. and to keep the blood samples in storage while five were diagnosed with severe dengue while 18 Lingayen also became the seat of the Chinese The Philippines lost the Spratly Islands and awaiting the development of a dengue antibody were noted with warning signs such as persistent colonial government in Luzon. When Yung Lo Scarborough Shoal because President Duterte test that would determine the pre-vaccination vomiting and abdominal pain, decreasing platelet died in 1424, the new Emperor Hongxi, Yung Lo’s abandoned the country’s claim after winning status of the affected population and trace the count, and mild bleeding. Other admissions were son, lost interest in the colony and the colonial the arbitration case against China in 2016. It’s seronegative individuals who are at risk for severe not dengue cases, according to the DOH, but one government was dissolved. However, the Chinese evident now that China had played Duterte for dengue. eventually died due to brain herniation. Twenty settlers in Lingayen -- known as “sangleys” --re- a sucker then; is he being played for a sucker At the Senate hearing, DOH officials said four of the patients have since been discharged, mained and prospered. again? ([email protected]) and only three remain confined, it said. they had begun coordinating with the University Similar scenes have been reported in Metro of Pittsburgh, which is in advanced stages of cago, have not been released pending notification Manila by local media, while the Volunteers developing the dengue antibody test. The univer- 7 MEDICAL MISSIONARIES of their next of kin. Against Crime and Corruption (VACC), which has sity has expressed willingness to cooperate, they ... FROM PAGE A1 These physicians and nurses, like hundreds opened public assistance desks and hotlines to revealed. of others from dozens of cities in the United address the public health scare over Dengvaxia, Health Secretary Francisco Duque III also Seven Fil-Am medical missionaries, on a States and Canada, do annual or biannual medi- is alleging more and more deaths related to the told the Senate panel that the DOH will extend stopover in Cebu, on their way to Camiguin to do cal missions to various rural towns in the Philip- vaccine. the surveillance and monitoring of the Dengvaxia medical mission, were killed when their rented pines, personally paying for all their airfare, local So far, funds from the Philippine Health vaccinees beyond the five years initially set. Toyota Grandia van plate number AED 1299 transportation expenses, meals, and purchasing Insurance Corp. and DOH’s Medical Assistance He also said “it’s not practicable” to resume crashed into a mahogany tree in the town of medications, equipment, and supplies for their Program are being used to cover ambulance ser- Dengvaxia vaccination among those with incom- Alegria. The three other passengers sustained se- humanitarian mission to the underserved areas of vices, dengue screening tests, hospitalization and plete doses, as suggested by one of the medical vere injuries. The driver, identified as Gilbert dela the country. outpatient consultations related to dengue. experts present at the hearing, given the nega- Cruz, who admitted he fell asleep on the wheels, Names of the victims have just been released. “As of today, Sanofi Pasteur has received tive impact documented so far. A separate task according to Alegria Police. The survivors are Dr. Elenita Rubio, Fred and no medical record, no information about any force composed of Philippine General Hospital The group of physicians and nurses from Leonor Tsai, all from Chicago and the names of of these cases. So today, from what we have experts looking into 14 deaths monitored by the the United States were in Oslob, a town about 73 the 7 unfortunate victims are Dr. Nunilo Rubio received, there is absolutely no death causally DOH’s epidemiology bureau among Dengvaxia miles south of Cebu City, that Saturday morning (Chicago), Jospeh and Juvelia Huang, Rey and related to the vaccine and of course, we welcome vaccinees, will submit the result of its clinical of January 20, 2018, and were bound for Ka- Diana Pascual, Berniti Roxas, and Aurora Gagni any information in order to be able to look at evaluation this week, according to Health Under- wasan Falls in Badian when the crash happened of Illinois. further data,” Triomphe said at the January 22 secretary Rolando Domingo. between 11 AM and noon, about 9.5 miles from Senate hearing. For overall dengue containment, the DOH their destination. Last week, Sanofi refunded PHP1.16 billion to is focused on sustained vector control through The five who died on the spot were taken to the Philippine government, representing unused its 4S campaign: search and destroy mosquito Reinhard Wirtgen Memorial Hospital in Badian VISIT Dengvaxia vials that were returned. These unused breeding sites, self-protective measures, seek while the other five transported to Badian Hos- doses will be destroyed in line with Sanofi’s inter- early consultation, and say yes to selective fog- pital. Two died on the way to the hospital. The www.filamstar.com nal protocol, according to Laurence Bollack from ging during an impending dengue outbreak. other three were later transferred to Chong Hua the company’s global media relations team. “Dengvaxia or no Dengvaxia, the threat of Hospital in Cebu. The driver, who owns the van Asked to comment whether Sanofi is willing dengue is a reality we need to contend with,” which he occasionally rented out, suffered only to put up a Compensation and Monitoring Fund Duque said at the tailend of the Senate hearing. cuts and bruises and was detained at the Alegria CALL US TO ADVERTISE as contemplated by Senator Gordon—a call for The Senate panel will resume its hearing on Police Station. accountability that has also been made by Sena- February 6. The names of the victims, some from Chi- 415-278-0692

of culturally invested community members. Her and a life of purpose. TFCU TALKS HEADS AS I SEE IT dances inspire young people of Philippine heritage PERFORMERS ... FROM B1 to establish a deeper connection to their roots. Chapkis Dance Family ... FROM PAGE A6 Rudy Corpuz Jr. (CO-Founder: United Chapkis Dance Family is a dance team found- “HappySlip”, is a Filipino American internet per- Playaz) ed by Greg Chapkis in Suisun City, California. for almost five hours that he heard their com- sonality, actress, and comedian. Her videos have Born and raised in the South of Market in San Established in 2004, Chapkis Dance Family started plaints and that the council would work on been viewed over 100 million times across the web. Francisco, Rudy Corpuz Jr. spent his younger years performing at local events but have since won and addressing them. We just hope that the garbage As a wife, mother to four kids, and an entrepre- in and out of prison. He turned his life around placed at some of the biggest dance competitions issue will not turn out to be an election issue as neur, Christine’s passion is to make a powerful and in 1994 when he founded United Playaz, a San in the world, earning first place titles in the Mega- this year is election for mayor, two council slots positive impact not only in every area of her life, Francisco-based violence prevention and youth Crew, Junior and Varsity divisions at Hip Hop and two education board members. but in the lives of others as well. development organization. They are trying to make International 2014 and 2016 as well as World of Some of the complaints by residents were Sydney Loyola (Trans Choreographer) the neighborhood a safer place to live in. United Dance competitions. They have also been featured also posted in Facebook in response to Mayor For more than three decades, Sydney Loyola Playaz believes that “it takes the hood to save the on America’s Got Talent and most recently on Tran’s call for a review of the new contractor’s has created dance pieces performed by cultural hood”. NBC’s World of Dance TV show. Many of the danc- status and services in social media. I hope Mayor groups in the Philippines, Asia and Europe. Her Mike Sagun (Career Coach) ers have appeared in movies, television shows and Tran will also consider those complaints and dance method has garnered respect from peers Mike has spent his career helping underserved commercials, and have choreographed for record- resolve them, together with the complaints aired as she emerged as the Bay Area’s ingenious dance communities in Northern California make safer ing artists, awards shows, and music videos. in person during the community meeting, the practitioner with choreographies motivated and healthier choices for their life. He continues to CONNECT. INSPIRE. EMPOWER. Click here soonest possible time. through immersions in Philippine indigenous create safe spaces for people to think deeply about to register now, or visit www.tfcutalks.com for (For feedbacks, comments… please email the tribes. Loyola recognizes the importance of actively themselves and stand authentically. Mike is pas- more information. author @ [email protected]). engaging youth, in order to create new generations sionate about helping people live in authenticity A8 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 business & Dominguez defends balance between tech news business tax cuts, perks for Acceleration and Inclusion income for both individuals and (TRAIN) Act, which slashed corporations from 40 percent Itama po natin! personal income tax rates but at present; allowing deductions, jacked up taxes on consump- including net operating loss BEN LOU your information. You own it and they are tion. carryover and depreciation; as asking for you to give it to them. You always Based on DOF presenta- well as defining medium and Q: How are have a choice. tions before industry associa- large (on a conglomerate basis) these people who Ang ating lesson, Information ninyo ay tions, the second package aims taxpayers. keep selling me stuff ginto sa taong gustong pakinabangan ito. to broaden the tax base by To avail of incentives, on the phone able to At Debt Aid Consulting, we pride our- repealing 150 special laws on investments must be perfor- get my number when selves with providing only Federal Trade investment tax incentives and mance-based, with an indepen- I am unlisted? Commission compliant programs. Our pro- consolidating them into a single dent body or the Fiscal Incen- A: The internet grams are here to help you get out of debt omnibus law. tives Review Board (FIRB) is not called informa- sooner than later and we do not send your It will likewise repeal ex- to measure it; time-bound, tion technology for no reason. A lot of times information outside of the country. emptions of government-owned to enjoy five-year income tax people have their own lists of names, phone and/or controlled corporations, holiday and/or reduced rate If you need help in getting out of payday Finance Sec. Carlos Dominguez III numbers, address and so on of contacts of loans, or any other unsecured debts, call (Photo: www..credit-suisse.com) proprietary educational institu- with no extension except for the family members, co-workers and friends. Debt Aid Consulting. We have free Credit tions and hospitals, regional capital equipment duty perk; Though this may be just a harmless list. to Repair while and after your program. We do headquarters, regional operat- targeted, or based on the three- others, this is valuable information. To a ing headquarters, incomes of year investment priorities plan not use call centers which keeps your infor- Even as the planned cut in marketer, this list can be used to communi- resident foreign corporations (IPP) covering both local and mation safe. We have a new program that corporate income tax rates will cate with your contacts which to them are from foreign currency transac- foreign investors that will serve reconstruct debts for half of what you would depend on the revenue gains of called leads. Hmmmm Leads? This leads pay our competitors. We also provide legal tions, nonresident cinemato- both domestic and international the second tax reform pack- graphic film owners, lessors or markets; as well as transpar- are targets for phone calls, mailers and other assistance that keeps collectors away. We age, Finance Secretary Carlos form of communication in order to send out take Federal Credit Unions, Military Debts, distributors, as well as owners ent, with the name of benefi- G. Dominguez III expressed or lessors of aircraft, machiner- ciaries and tax incentives to be attractive offers for products they sell. So Payday loans and high interest personal confidence that investors will ies, vessels and other equip- reported by the FIRB. count yourself as being just one person with loans in our program too. This is exclusively understand the government’s ment. Also among the proposed a thousand contacts. That doesn’t sound available for Debt Aid Consulting clients. thrust of balancing the grant of While cutting down on in- reforms under the second like much. But when they get your contacts None of our competitors provide this pro- fiscal perks. centives, the second tax reform tax package include a regular and your contacts’ contacts and so on, this gram. You are well protected. Asked last week if investors will amount to millions of potential custom- package will bring down the review to be undertaken by the We only provide Federal Trade Com- could be deterred by the condi- corporate income tax rate start- FIRB on all tax and other perks ers where if just hit ten percent of the whole mission compliant programs. Debt relief tional reduction in corporate in- ing Jan. 1, 2020 by 1 percentage given away by the various in- pie could bring in millions to their business. companies who charge non refundable come taxes, Dominguez replied: point for every reduction in vestment promotions agencies Not so simple anymore is it? upfront fees are in violation of the ban. Go “No, I don’t think so. I think it investment tax perks equiva- (IPAs). So how dothey get a hold of these infor- with Debt Aid Consulting! focuses the issue—what do you lent to 0.15 percent of gross Under the DOF proposal, mation? When you apply for jobs, credit, Do not fall for marketing gimmicks say- want: lower income tax, or less domestic product in 2018 or an the Secretary of Finance can and any other forms of questionnaire that ing that they have the right program for you. incentives that are targeted, estimated P26 billion. cancel or suspend the grant of would require you to put in as much infor- Most marketing companies only have one time-bound and measured? So “The goal is to reduce the incentives upon the review and mation about yourself and others. When program and will enroll you in that program it focuses the mind. So if you corporate income tax rate from recommendation of the FIRB, a you join a raffle asking also for some basic whether it fits you or not. So beware! are a company, you will balance 30 percent to 25 percent by power that the official does not information asking for emergency contact. Ben Lou at your service! I have over it—do I really need this incen- 2022, while expanding the base have at present and currently These are just some of ways they can have 30 years of real financial experience. If you tive, or am I better off with by 0.75 percent of GDP or P130 held only by IPAs. you willingly give out that information to would like sound financial advice, call us lower income tax? So it’s always billion in 2018 prices,” the DOF Rep. Dakila Carlo Cua, who them for further use. Then there is the nor- at Debt Aid Consulting. We do not use call a balanced approach giving said. chairs House ways and means mal way of getting such information from centers like Financial Rescue. No one has them a choice.” Dominguez said the DOF committee, confirmed to report- your service providers such as TV, Cable , the right to put your information at risk. Say For the second tax reform expects the target to cut the ers last Friday that they already Mobile and utilities. This is why you are no to LLC corporations in Canada! Debt Aid package as a whole, Dominguez foregone revenues from fiscal received last week the DOF’s told reporters that “our plan is getting that sales call all day long not know- Consulting is the first and only Filipino debt incentives to be easily attain- draft bill containing the second always to have two sides of the ing how they got your information. To keep restructuring company incorporated in the able. tax reform package. coin—one revenue raising, one your information safe, always give as very US and Canada. The second tax package Cua said Finance Under- revenue reduction.” little as possibly as needed. Ask questions Now serving the Caribbean Islands! will also improve compliance secretary Karl Kendrick T. Chua “We will balance it; our why they will need that information and Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at tutu- by simplifying the tax rules for will brief the House leadership what is to happen if you were not comfort- approach is always balanced,” corporations, including slashing about the new tax package on lungan po namin kayo. Dominguez said, citing the able in handing that out. Remember, it is Itama po natin ang mali! the optional standard deduc- Wednesday. (Ben O. De Vera / same tack in the Tax Reform tion to 20 percent of gross inquirer.net) ‘Digital district’ in Singapore to create 28,000 tech jobs When its first buildings affect land use and density – They envision a cluster of are ready in five years, Punggol will be applied on a district level buildings managed by central- North could become something instead of on individual land ized systems handling waste of a mini Silicon Valley in Sin- parcels, giving developers more collection, cooling and logistics gapore – a center for digital and flexibility. for the whole area. It could even cyber-security industries that The area will also be car- be cooled by “smart” thermo- generates up to 28,000 digital lite, with infrastructure such as stats that can detect changes economy jobs. parking spaces located under- outdoors and adjust the tem- The masterplan for the ground. That leaves the streets perature indoors accordingly. 50ha Punggol Digital District for pedestrians, cyclists and us- Flanking the area will be was launched yesterday (Jan ers of personal mobility devices. Housing Board flats, such as 21) by Deputy Prime Minister It will be connected to those in the upcoming North- Teo Chee Hean at Waterway other parts of Singapore by a shore Edge development, which Point mall, together with an host of new transport infra- is slated to be completed in exhibition on what the district structure, including the new 2021. would look like. Punggol Coast MRT station. Mr David Tan, assistant Speaking at the event, Mr The Singapore Institute of chief executive officer of JTC, Teo said the plan is to make Technology’s (SIT) new campus said it will be applying lessons it Punggol “a hub for key growth will also be in the district, a has learnt from other develop-

Aerial view of Punggol (Photo: www..businessinsider.sg)

sectors of the digital economy”, move that Mr Teo said would ments it has been involved in. and that could even involve create opportunities for stu- This includes striking the right moving government agencies, dents and faculty to exchange balance between work and such as the Cyber Security ideas with industry practitio- leisure spaces, and even looking Agency of Singapore – cur- ners working there. at how closely spaced buildings rently in Maxwell Road – to the Punggol Digital District is are. district. a pilot project for what is being For example, buildings at “This will help create a new termed an “enterprise district”, the International Business Park cluster of cyber-security and with the authorities studying are “very standalone” compared technology firms in Punggol. if this model can be applied to with those in one-north, said Our residents can look forward other areas in future. Mr Tan. Both developments are to many exciting jobs in the The new district is a col- operated by JTC. “At one-north, future close to home.” laboration among four agencies the buildings are much closer The district will also serve – the Urban Redevelopment together and so you have more as a test bed for a slew of new Authority, Infocomm Media interaction,” he said. (inquirer. features and planning practices. Development Authority, JTC net) The zoning rules – which and SIT. January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star A9 world news U.S. Democrats accept compromise Kurds invited to join Syria peace congress in Sochi: Lavrov Russia said Monday it had to end government shutdown invited Kurds to take part in an upcoming Syrian peace con- The US Senate on Mon- There are an estimated he said. gress in Sochi, despite a Turk- day reached a deal to reopen 700,000 “Dreamers” whose The bill needed 60 votes ish offensive against Kurdish the federal government, with fates are up in the air. to pass the procedural hurdle militia in northern Syria. Democrats accepting a com- “If he does not, of course, in the 100-member Senate, Together with regime promise spending bill to end and I expect he will, he will meaning Republicans -- who backer Iran and rebel sup- days of partisan bickering that have breached the trust of not have a one-seat majority -- porter Turkey, Russia -- a key forced hundreds of thousands only the Democratic senators could not maneuver on their backer of Syrian President of government employees to but members of his own party own. Bashar al-Assad -- is preparing stay home without pay. as well,” Schumer said. Over the weekend, Trump to host the January 30 talks The impasse, the first of Dealmaker on sidelines encouraged the Senate’s with the aim of agreeing a new its kind since 2013, cast a huge Hopes that the shutdown, Republican leaders to invoke constitution for post-war Syria. shadow over the first anniver- which began at midnight the “nuclear option” -- a pro- “Kurdish representatives sary on Saturday of President Friday, could be limited to the cedural maneuver to change have been included on the list Donald Trump’s inauguration. weekend were raised when a the chamber’s rules to allow of Syrians invited to par- (Photo: www.csmonitor.com) As the Senate convened, bipartisan group huddled for passage of a budget by a simple ticipate in the Syrian National the chamber’s top Democrat Dialogue Congress,” Foreign Chuck Schumer announced Minister Sergei Lavrov said. ethnic groups should respect tiations before the Sochi talks, that members of his party Moscow initially hoped the country’s sovereignty and which dozens of rebel factions would vote with ruling Repub- to convene peace talks in territorial integrity. have already rejected. licans to end the shutdown Sochi last November but those Separately, Russian Presi- The UN-backed talks are on day three, after a weekend efforts collapsed following a dent Vladimir Putin’s spokes- to resume on January 25-26, of frustrating talks on Capitol lack of agreement among co- man Dmitry Peskov -- asked this time in Vienna. Hill. sponsors. whether the Turkish offensive The Sochi meeting is part The compromise bill Turkish President Recep would complicate the Sochi of a broader push by Moscow passed a key procedural Tayyip Erdogan at the time to congress -- declined to com- to start hammering out a hurdle in the Senate by an fumed at the prospect of invit- ment, but said that the prepa- path to a political solution to overwhelming majority of ing the Syrian Kurdish group rations for the conference were end the war and has sparked 81-18, with final approval in the PYD and its armed wing, under way. concerns that the Kremlin is the chamber expected by day’s the Kurdish People’s Protec- Opposition concerns looking to sideline the UN. end. tion Units (YPG). The announcement came Syria’s nearly seven-year The shutdown will end Without referring to Kurd- as Syria’s main opposition war, which began as the regime formally once the House of ish militia by name, Erdogan group said it would need “full brutally crushed anti-govern- Representatives approves the Democratic Senator Chuck Schumer said in November: “We cannot and clear information” before ment protests, has claimed measure keeping the govern- (Photo: www.washingtontimes.com ) consider a terrorist gang with agreeing to take part in the more than 340,000 lives, ment funded until February 8 blood on their hands a legiti- Black Sea peace conference forced millions to flee their -- which it is expected to do. hours on Sunday trying to end majority of 51 votes to end the mate actor.” next week. homes and left the country in Speaking on the Senate the standoff, but they ultimate- shutdown. Turkey considers the YPG “The SNC will not make ruins. (AFP) floor, Schumer said he had ly failed to reach a deal. But Senate leaders have to be a terror group and the any final decision regarding reached an arrangement with Then as Monday began, been wary of such a move in Syrian offshoot of the Kurd- the Russian initiatives until it Republican Majority Leader Trump goaded Democrats the past, as it could come back istan Workers’ Party (PKK) receives full and clear infor- Mitch McConnell “after several from the sidelines, accusing to haunt them the next time which has waged a bloody mation from Russia,” Nasr discussions, offers, counterof- them of shutting down the Democrats hold a majority. three-decade insurgency al-Hariri, representative of the fers.” government to win concessions There have been four against the Turkish state. Syrian National Congress, said “We will vote today to re- on immigration, in service of government shutdowns since The Turkish military on during a trip to Moscow. open the government,” he said. “their far left base.” 1990. In the last one, more Saturday launched a cross- “We want to have com- But Schumer warned “They don’t want to do it than 800,000 government border operation aiming to plete information about the McConnell that he expected but are powerless,” he tweeted, workers were put on tempo- oust the YPG from its enclave participants, the agenda and Republicans to make good on referring to Schumer and other rary leave. of Afrin in northern Syria. the objectives” of the Sochi a pledge to address Democrat Democratic leaders. Essential federal ser- But Lavrov on Monday meetings, he said at the start of concerns over the Deferred Ac- But Schumer said on the vices and the military were said that Syrian Kurds should a meeting with Lavrov. tion on Child Arrivals (DACA) Senate floor it was time to get operational Monday, but even play a role in the “future politi- “Unfortunately, for the program that shields immi- back to work, and lashed out at active-duty troops will not be cal process.” time being, we do not have a VISIT grants brought to the country Trump. paid until a deal is formally “This role should certainly clear picture of all that.” www.filamstar.com as children from deportation, “The great deal-making sealed. (AFP) be ensured,” he told reporters, The SNC has said it will but expires on March 5. president sat on the sidelines,” but added that all of Syria’s attend fresh UN-hosted nego- A10 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star B1 community TFCU talks heads to UC Davis, embracing identity Desiree Chan, a student of more exciting year as TFCU Identity:” DALY CITY, Calif, January Wyatt Pavilion Theatre in UC San Francisco State University, brings more of its rousing, SPEAKERS 18, 2018 – TFCU Talks will be Davis (Arboretum Dr, Davis, CA shared how everyone has their uplifting, and stimulating TFCU Christine Gambito (Come- in Davis, California on Satur- 95616) TFCU Talks Davis is an own struggles, but that “what Talks all over the country. dienne | Youtube personal- day, February 3, 2018. An affili- exclusive free event with limited I learned from the talks is to First stop is at UC Davis where ity) ate of ABS-CBN International, seating - first come, first served. always keep pushing forward TFCU curated an exciting and Christine Gambito, also For all ticketing information, and to never settle for less.” fitting line-up of speakers and known by her screen name and to reserve your spot today, 2018 proves to be an even performers for “Embracing TO PAGE A7 please visit tfcudavis.eventbrite. com Last year, TFCU Talks visited several campuses across the U.S. bringing speakers who engaged and inspired the youth to aspire to be the best versions of themselves. Natalie Nu- “As a child, my Filipino mom would esca who attended the Carson always remind me to wear a half- slip with skirts. However, the way State University talks said that she would pronounce the phrase “Everything they talked about was misleading: “Your hap e-slip! Be sure to wear your hap e-slip!” So, I naturally went around calling Chapkis Dance Family is a profes- the thing a ‘happy slip.’” – Christine sional dance company that seeks Gambito on the origin of “Happy to create well rounded professional Slip.” individuals to further contribute to the dance community. (Photo definitely resonated with me, courtesy of Chapkis Dance Family especially for those of us who Facebook Page) are college students. We’re getting ready to enter the real TFCU Talks Davis will feature a world and it’s good to get advice lineup of top industry leaders to from people like them.” connect, inspire, and empower Daniel Lazo, President college students and young pro- of Akbayan SJSU who co- fessionals to help them realize presented the TFC Talks in San their full potential. Jose, admitted that “The biggest TFCU Talks Davis is co- Mike Sagun has facilitated over thing for me is seeing the stu- presented by Mga Kapatid (My 1,000 workshops about empathy dents here really feel connected, Brothers and Sisters) - a social, and inclusivity with an emphasis inspired, and empowered. It political, cultural, and academic on positive conflict resolution. Mike has educated over 500k community puts a light in my heart seeing organization for the Pilipino- how people glow up and see the American community at UC members all over Northern Califor- nia, and in October 2017 he gave kind of things they can accom- Davis. his first TEDx Talk. (Photo cour- plish because they are really The event takes place at the tesy of www.mikesagun.com) agents of change.” B2 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018

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Pinay empowerment communty Kappa Psi Epsilon with Daly City Mayor, Juslyn Manalo (standing middle row second from left)

Welcome Dinner Appreciation for the Winter Fancy for exhibitors held @ Philippine Consulate office last Monday, January 22, 2018. Photo shows: SF Consul Henry Bensurto and wife Mariz, Phil consulate employees and WFF Ryzelle of Vallejo celebrating her debut this month. Friends and relatives will celebrate Keilani Beth’s 2nd exhibitors Happy Birthday Ryzelle! birthday on Saturday, January 27 January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star B3 community PG&E launches new program to accelerate electric vehicle adoption in Northern and Central California awareness SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.—To increasing access to charging in help accelerate the adaption of locations where it has tradition- Santa Clara County launches media campaign in support of immigrants electric vehicles (EVs) in Cali- ally been limited and where cars Elected officials, execu- county executive; and Maria Santa Clara County contributed fornia, Pacific Gas and Electric often sit for longer periods of tives, consulates and commu- Love, director of the Office of an estimated $77 billion to Company (PG&E) today launched time, like workplaces and apart- nity organizations reiterate Immigrant Relations. They the county’s economy through its new EV Charge Network ment buildings. program. Partnering with busi- “California continues to lead commitment were joined by Juan Manuel consumption and taxes. ness customers and EV charging the nation in the fight against On the anniversary of Pres- Calderón-Jaimes, Consul Gen- • According to estimates, companies, PG&E will install climate change and clean trans- ident Trump’s inauguration, the eral of Mexico in San Jose; Ana the immigrant population of 7,500 EV chargers at condomini- portation is critical to building ified vendors that meet quality County of Santa Clara launched Valenzuela, Consul General of Santa Clara County contributed ums, apartment buildings and our sustainable energy future. and safety standards. A list of a countywide media campaign El Salvador in San Francisco; almost $3 billion in state and workplaces across Northern and One in five electric vehicles in the the pre-qualified vendors can be to convey a unified message in Patricia Lavagnino, Consul local taxes in 2014; this includes Central California, including at United States plug into PG&E’s found here. support of immigrants in Santa General of Guatemala in San property, income, sales, and sites in disadvantaged communi- clean energy grid. Through Supporting EV Adoption Clara County. County elected Francisco; and Denis Galeano excise taxes levied by either the ties. this new program, we can help Committed to increasing officials, County Executives, Cornejo, Consul General of State of California or by munici- Interested business custom- even more of our customers feel adoption of clean vehicles in the Consulates, and Community Nicaragua in San Francisco. pal governments. Immigrant ers can learn more and apply confident using electric vehicles, state, PG&E continues its efforts based organizations joined The diplomats praised the households also contributed for the program now at pge. thereby helping the state and our to make it easier for customers to forces recently to demonstrate County’s undeniable commit- $7 billion in federal taxes, $5 com/evchargenetwork. To date, communities meet their clean make the switch to EVs. Online their commitment to echoing ment and courage to defend the billion to Social Security and $1 resources help customers driving more than 500 customers have air and greenhouse-gas emission “one voice for immigrant com- rights of immigrants living in billion to Medicare. EVs learn more and determine expressed interest in the pro- reduction goals,” said Geisha munities.” Santa Clara County. Represen- The County of Santa Clara gram. In the first quarter of 2018, Williams, CEO and President of which rate plan makes sense for The media campaign tatives of the County of Santa government serves a diverse, PG&E will begin installing new PG&E Corporation. them. On PG&E’s residential EV seeks to reach all immigrant Clara Office of the Sheriff at- multi-cultural population of 1.9 EV chargers in partnership with Accelerating EV Adoption rate plans, customers pay the business customers, including at with PG&E’s EV Charge equivalent of $1.20 per gallon to communities across Santa tended the press conference in million residents in Santa Clara the first participating customer Network charge their vehicle overnight. Clara County, including recent solidarity with the campaign. County, the fifth largest county Merced College. PG&E’s EV Charge Network EV drivers who are PG&E arrivals, mono-lingual im- Facts about immigrants in in California. With a $6.5 “Merced College’s Los Banos program will pay for and build the residential electric customers can migrants, the undocumented, Santa Clara County billion budget and more than Campus is excited to partner with infrastructure from the electric apply for the Clean Fuel Rebate, a women and LGBTQ individuals. • Santa Clara County is one 70 agencies/departments and PG&E on their new EV Charge grid to the charger. Additionally, one-time rebate of $500 reward- Key information to reassure of the most diverse places in more than 18,000 employees, Network program which pro- PG&E will offset a portion of the ing them for using electricity the immigrant community of the world, with approximately the County of Santa Clara plans motes the sustainability goals charger cost for all participating as a clean transportation fuel. the County’s support will be 700,000 county residents for the needs of a dynamic com- of our district. We are commit- customers, based on the site and The rebate is part of California’s displayed on VTA buses, public (39 percent of the county’s munity, provides quality ser- ted to doing our part to reduce location. statewide Low Carbon Fuel transportation shelters and the population) born outside of the vices, and promotes a healthy, greenhouse-gas emissions in Details of the program Standard initiative, which aims County of Santa Clara Office of United States. Combined, these safe and prosperous community California and also look forward include: to reduce transportation-related Immigrant Relations website. residents speak more than 80 for all. The County provides es- to providing increased access for · Partnering with EV charg- greenhouse-gas emissions by Materials will be shared with major languages. sential services including public encouraging the adoption of clean future electric vehicle users,” said ing companies, PG&E will install partners within and beyond • The top 10 languages health protection, environmen- fuels like electricity. Joe Allison, Vice President of Ad- 7,500 level 2 charging stations at Santa Clara County. spoken in Santa Clara County tal protection, medical services ministrative Services at Merced business customer sites includ- Also, PG&E has proposed ad- The media campaign mes- are: English, Spanish, Vietnam- through Santa Clara Valley College. ing condominiums, apartment ditional projects to the California sage is clear and simple: The ese, Cantonese, Tagalog, Hindi, Medical Center (SCVMC), child Increasing Clean Transpor- buildings and workplaces across Public Utilities Commission that, tation in California Northern and Central California. if approved, will further acceler- County of Santa Clara welcomes Mandarin, Korean, Telugu and and adult protection services, In California, transportation · To increase EV charging ate EV adoption and combat immigrants and recognizes Tamil, respectively. homelessness prevention and is the single largest contributor access to more customers, at least climate change. Projects include their many contributions to • Latinos account for more solutions, roads, park services, to greenhouse-gas emissions. Ex- 15 percent of the chargers will be deployment of fast-charging sta- our society. The campaign’s than a quarter of the residents libraries, emergency response panding access to EVs is essential installed in disadvantaged com- tions to meet consumer demand linguistically diverse content in Santa Clara County; 25 per- to disasters, protection of mi- to increasing clean air and reduc- munities. as well as electrification for fleets conveys the cultural richness cent of the county’s immigrants nority communities and those ing greenhouse-gas emissions in · The three-year program with medium- and heavy-duty of our region, with the purpose speak Spanish. under threat, access to a fair the state. The electricity fueling officially starts in 2018, and vehicles including school buses, of improving the County’s abil- • Foreign-born Latinos criminal justice system, and EVs in California comes from one continues through 2020, with a transit agencies and delivery ity to reach all residents and have some health advantages scores of other services, particu- of the cleanest energy mixes in budget of $130 million. fleets that often use diesel, a inform them of the multiple ser- over U.S.-born Latinos but are larly for those members of our the country – nearly 70 percent · All site hosts can choose to highly polluting fuel. vices that are available to them also less likely to have health community in the greatest need. of the electricity PG&E delivers own their charging equipment. To learn more about the EV – regardless of their immigra- insurance. to customers is from greenhouse PG&E can own and maintain up Charge Network program, watch tion status. • The majority of immi- an overview video here and visit gas-free resources. to 35 percent of the total (up to The speakers at the grants in Santa Clara County our website at pge.com/evcharge- While EV adoption continues 2,625 out of 7,500) at workplaces January 19th press confer- come from Mexico, followed by to grow in California, one of the in disadvantaged communities network. To learn more about ence were Jeffrey Smith, M.D., India, Vietnam, China, the Phil- biggest barriers remains – the and apartment buildings or con- other options for EV drivers, visit J.D., county executive; Miguel ippines, Taiwan, Korea, Iran, lack of available places to charge. dominiums. pge.com/ev. PG&E’s EV Charge Network will · Customer sites can choose Marquez, County of Santa Clara Japan and Russia. support the adoption of EVs by chargers from a list of pre-qual- COO; David Campos, deputy • In 2014, immigrants in B4 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 legal & law U.S. police win protracted legal Who are subject to expedited removal of battle in house party case aliens in the U.S? The fog of marijuana smoke thinly veiled to a birthday party, others a bachelor party. women in thongs, the music pounding -- a Wash- By whom? ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO ington party that lost all inhibitions before evolv- “Peaches,” the partygoers replied. ing into a legal battle that endured a decade. But the mysterious “Peaches” was nowhere to President Trump Executive Order 13767 on January 25, 2017 in- But on Monday the US Supreme Court finally be found. structs the DHS to implement and expand Expedited Removal. We will laid the issue to rest, ruling in favor of police who Reached on her cell phone, Peaches was reti- discuss what it is and how those affected should protect themselves. arrested attendees at a debaucherous party held cent with police, refused to return to the house Q. What is expedited removal, and who does it apply to now? in a vacant residence without the owner’s permis- and finally hung up -- but not before admitting A. Expedited removal is a procedure that allows a Department of sion. that the party occurred without permission of the Homeland Security (DHS) official to summarily remove a noncitizen The police intervention, which stemmed space’s owner. without a hearing before an immigration judge or review by the Board from a routine late-night noise complaint in The Washington police officers were joined of Immigration Appeals (BIA). Under the Immigration and Nationality March 2008, evolved into a case with weighty by their supervisor, who ordered the arrest of all Act (INA), any individual who arrives at a port of entry in the United legal implications concerning the Fourth Amend- the participants for violation of property, no small States and who is inadmissible under either misrepresentations and ment, which protects citizens from unreasonable offense in the United States. false claims to U.S. citizenship or lack of valid entry documents, is subject to expedited removal. searches, seizures and arrests. The charges were dropped, but 16 of the Additionally, the Secretary of DHS has the authority to apply expedited removal to any individ- Seven of nine judges on the nation’s highest party’s attendees sued, alleging they were un- ual apprehended at a place other than a port of entry, who is inadmissible under either of those bench signed the judgment, with two agreeing to aware they had illegally entered private property grounds, has not been admitted or paroled, and cannot show that he or she has been continu- the decision but voicing some reservations. and challenging the police to prove otherwise. ously present in the United States for two or more years. It was 1:00 am in the morning when officers The cops found themselves sentenced to pay To date, DHS has limited its application of expedited removal to noncitizens inadmissible Andre Parker and Anthony Campanale responded $1 million damages to the partiers -- a punish- for one of the above-stated grounds who either arrive at a port of entry or are apprehended to a call from neighbor overwhelmed by the night ment canceled Monday. within 14 days of their arrival and within 100 miles of an international land border. of vice. Finally, after ten years of legal wrangling, the Q. How does expedited removal differ from removal proceedings before an immigration The cops first attempted to identify the Supreme Court decided that “a reasonable officer, judge? party’s host -- a task that proved challenging looking at the entire legal landscape at the time A. Expedited removal is substantially different from removal proceedings in immigration when the revelers scattered. of the arrests, could have interpreted the law as court conducted. In removal proceedings, an immigration judge hears the case. Noncitizens may After a late-night game of hide-and-seek the permitting arrests here.” have an attorney represent them (at their own expense), may apply for relief from removal, and officers rounded up 21 people, including a man And the US Department of Justice and the are entitled to substantial due process protections. Finally, even if an immigration judge orders who had taken refuge in a closet and several city of Washington can breathe easy: authorities an individual removed, that person may appeal the decision, first to the Board of Immigration women wearing garters stuffed with cash. had feared a decision in favor of the party-goers Appeals (BIA) and then to a federal court of appeals. - Police can breathe easy - would trigger “a dissuasive effect” on American Expedited removal, as applied by DHS, does not have any of those procedural protections. But none of them appeared to have organized policing. AFP) The DHS officer who is authorized to issue an order of expedited removal operates as prosecutor the festivities -- some said they had been invited and judge and often arrests an individual and orders him or her deported on the same day. With limited exceptions, discussed below, the government takes the position that noncitizens subject to expedited removal have no right to an appeal. U.S. condemns arrests of AFP reporter, others at Sudan demo Q. After someone is arrested by DHS, how can she show that she must receive an immigra- tion court hearing, rather than be subject to expedited removal? The United States condemned Sudan’s arbi- performance in these areas, and to ensure that A. It is too early to know how DHS will implement an expansion of expedited removal. As trary detention of journalists Friday after an AFP those detained are treated humanely and fairly... noted above, DHS has discretion to elect between issuing an expedited removal order, allow- reporter and two colleagues were arrested covering and that they are allowed access to legal counsel ing withdrawal of an application for admission or issuing a Notice to Appear and placing the a street protest. and their families.” individual in removal proceedings before an immigration judge. Requesting that DHS exercise Abdelmoneim Abu Idris Ali of Agence France- Idris Ali, a 51-year-old who has worked for its prosecutorial discretion to either allow withdrawal of an application for admission or issue a Presse and at least two more journalists were taken AFP for nearly a decade, was covering protests Notice to Appear is advisable. away by authorities on Wednesday as they reported Wednesday in the city of Omdurman, where riot Furthermore, the INA provides that an individual may be subject to expedited removal only on a demonstration against rising food prices. police fired tear gas at some 200 protesters. if she or he “has not affirmatively shown, to the satisfaction of an immigration officer, that [she They have not been allowed contact with their He was unreachable after the protest and or he] has been physically present in the United States continuously for the 2-year period imme- families or employers and authorities say they are authorities informed AFP the next day that he had diately prior to the date of the determination of inadmissibility.” Therefore, DHS officers are ob- being held “for investigation” by Sudan’s National been arrested along with two other journalists. Intelligence and Security Service (NISS). Authorities initially said Idris Ali would be ligated to put an individual into immigration court proceedings, rather than expedited removal, “We are aware of the detentions and are closely released within hours but as of late Friday, more if that person provides proof that she or he has been present in the United States for two years following the reports,” US State Department than 48 hours after he was detained, he was still (or a lesser amount of time depending upon the scope of any expansion of expedited removal). spokeswoman Heather Nauert told AFP. being held. However, there are pros and cons to carrying documents demonstrating length of residency “We condemn the harassment, arbitrary deten- “AFP management strongly condemns the ar- Q. Is there a way to ask the issuing agency to reconsider or reopen an expedited removal tion and attacks on journalists in Sudan who are rest of Mr. Idris Ali and asks Sudanese authorities order? doing their jobs and exercising their fundamental for his immediate release,” the agency said. A. Yes, expedited removal orders are covered by 8 C.F.R. § 103.5, which governs motions to right to freedom of expression.” Food shortages reopen or reconsider DHS decisions. The United States has had difficult relations Several protesters were also reported to have Any motion to reopen (based on new evidence) or reconsider (based on an incorrect applica- with Sudan, on which it once imposed several been detained at the demonstration. tion of law or policy) should be filed with the DHS office that issued the expedited removal order. economic sanctions regimes over its alleged sup- Sporadic protests have erupted across Sudan The motion should explain both why DHS should vacate the expedited removal order on le- port for terrorism and brutality against the people after prices of food, notably bread, surged follow- gal or equitable grounds and why the person subject to the order is eligible for and/or deserving of Darfur. ing a jump in the cost of flour due to a shortage of of the requested relief. For example, if the motion seeks cancellation of the expedited removal But last year US officials removed the last of wheat. order to allow the person to withdraw his or her application for admission, the motion should the sanctions as part of a deliberate diplomatic Wednesday’s rally was called by the main op- evaluate each factor a CBP officer would consider in deciding such a request. If the motion seeks engagement process. position Umma Party, a day after a similar dem- cancellation of the expedited removal order and issuance of a Notice to Appear, the motion Concerns remain, however, about the regime onstration organized by the Communist Party in should demonstrate what relief is available to the person in removal proceedings before an im- of Omar al-Bashir, who is under indictment by the Khartoum was broken up by police. migration judge. International Criminal Court accused of order- Authorities cracked down on similar protests Lastly, DHS has discretion to elect between issuing an expedited removal order, allowing ing mass killings, rape and torture in the Darfur in 2016, and rights groups say dozens were killed withdrawal of an application for admission pursuant to 8 U.S.C. § 1225(a)(4), or issuing a Notice region. by security forces in 2013 protests. to Appear and placing the individual in removal proceedings before an immigration judge. Coun- “We remain deeply concerned about freedom Critics have long accused Khartoum of per- sel always can request that DHS exercise its prosecutorial discretion to either allow withdrawal of expression, including for members of the media, secuting the media, with watchdog Reporters of an application for admission or issue a Notice to Appear. the closing of political space for all Sudanese, and Without Borders ranking the country 174th out Note: This is not a legal advice and you should seek the advice of an immigration attorney Sudan’s poor overall human rights record,” Nauert of 180 countries in its 2017 World Press Freedom for your personal circumstances. said. Index. (AFP) SUCCESS STORIES “We continue to press Sudan to improve its 1. On January 12, 2018, we received an approval of immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate Manila for an alien who applied for I-601-A as one who entered as a seaman. 2. On January 10, 2018, we received an approval form USCIS of a self petition for abused Former US gymnastics team doctor Nassar spouse based on same sex marriage. 3. On January 3, 2018, we received an approval from the Immigration Court for a waiver of awaits sentence for sexual abuse misrepresentation for a client who was charged with misrepresentation in marriage; 4. On December 15, 2017, we received an approval from USCIS for an adjustment of status Like star gymnast Aly Raisman, many victims for same sex marriage for an applicant who entered without inspection but has Sec. 245 (i). have criticized not just Nassar’s actions but the 5. On November 16, 2017, we received an approval from Immigration Court for a waiver of inaction of US Olympics and gymnastics officials, and Michigan State University. misrepresentation for entering as single daughter of U.S. citizen but actually married. Mattie Larson, a decorated former member 6. On October 25, 2017, we received an approval of I-485 adjustment of status for our client of the US national team, called on lawmakers to who has a DUI but has proof that he has cleared his record. pass a new bill that would require amateur athlet- 7. On October 20, 2017, we received an approval of naturalization for a client who was ics organizations to report allegations of sexual granted a waiver of misrepresentation in Immigration Court. misconduct. 8. On October 16, 2017, we received from USCIS an approval for an adjustment of “I was shocked to learn that this law did not status for same sex marriage, after two scheduled interviews. already exist,” Larson said, calling on Speaker of 9. On October 9, 2017, we received an approval from USCIS for adjustment of Dr. Larry Nassar the House Paul Ryan to schedule a vote for the bill status for a client who entered as a seaman but has Sec. 245 (i) eligibility. (Photo: www.cnn.com) that has already cleared the US Senate. 10. On October 2, 2017, we received an approval of adjustment of status from USCIS for a “We must ensure that legal steps are made to client who entered without inspection but has Sec. 245(i). Disgraced former USA Gymnastics team doc- prevent anything of this nature and magnitude 11. For the week ending September 15, 2017, we received three Immigrant Visa tor Larry Nassar faced a sentence of life in prison from happening again,” she said. Approvals in U.S. Embassy Manila for three applicants who entered as seaman under the Provi- Wednesday for sexual abuse after a week of gut- ‘Going to hell’ sional Waiver Program. wrenching victim impact statements from dozens Raisman, who won Olympic team gold in 2012 12. On August 31, 2017 we received an approval of adjustment of status for a client who has of girls and women he treated. and 2016 and the 2012 floor exercise crown, noted problems with birth certificate which we corrected. Nassar, 54, has pleaded guilty to 10 counts of that the first allegations against Nassar came ahead If you have immigration problems the Law Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you criminal sexual conduct. of the Rio Olympics. find a solution before your problem gets worse which could lead to deportation and family sepa- He was scheduled to be sentenced on Wednes- “Survivors courageously came forward sharing ration. day in Michigan on seven of the counts, with a stories of sexual abuse and alleging organizational Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active member of the State Bar of California, the American separate sentence on the final three charges to be mishandling,” Raisman wrote on Twitter. “The Immigration Lawyers Association and San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association. He specializes handed down at the end of the month. next day, the USOC said they wouldn’t investigate in immigration law and personal injury. For free consultation email or call ([email protected] / Nassar, who had also been employed for (and even praised USAG’s work in the area of 1-877-456-9266) decades by Michigan State University, has already sexual abuse).” been sentenced to 60 years in prison after pleading At day five of his sentencing hearing Monday guilty to child pornography charges. in Michigan, more victims spoke, including Taylor The body overseeing US collegiate sports, the Livingston, who called life a “chore” and “constant NCAA, opened an investigation Tuesday into the fight” due to the guilt she felt concealing the abuse university’s handling of the Nassar case. from her father, who died last year. The presiding judge at Nassar’s sentencing “When you die, you’re going to hell,” she told hearing has received approximately 158 victim im- Nassar. “But there will be a pit stop on the way pact statements, according to prosecutors. The list where you’ll have to face my dad, who now knows of people asking to speak -- with Nassar in court what you’ve done... and when you do, you will suf- -- tripled since the hearing began a week ago. fer.” One of them, Alison Chauvette, on Tuesday Emma Ann Miller, the youngest to speak at 15, said Nassar’s abusive behavior was so brazen, com- described Nassar’s actions in a supply closet during mon and unchecked that she and fellow gymnasts a 2016 medical appointment at a clinic she said is discussed his strange treatments and simply as- still trying to bill her family for the appointment. sumed they must be legitimate. “I’m possibly the last child you will ever as- “We young girls were fooled, but the world sault,” Miller told Nassar, saying she plans to keep should not have been. USAG, Michigan State going while Nassar “fades into a federal prison University and society all failed to keep us safe,” cell.” (AFP) Answers to LAST WEEK’S Krosword she said. January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star B5 health & Finally, a blood test to screen for early-stage cancer Scientists at Johns Hopkins University have enormous impact on cancer mortality,” Dr. Cristian developed a blood test that will detect early signs of Tomasetti of Johns Hopkins University School of lifestyle the eight most common cancers normally diagnosed Medicine told BBC. in their late stages, according to research published Current screening tests available for some in the journal Science. This means early detection cancers reduce the risk of death by up to 50 percent. will finally be available for patients who have cancer CancerSEEK allows early detection of five cancers of the ovary, liver, pancreas, esophagus, bowel, lungs that previously had no screening program for early Health@Heart or breast. detection. The screening test, then known as “liquid Pancreatic cancer, for example, has so few biopsy” and now called CancerSEEK, works by symptoms and is usually detected so late that four Electronic addicts looking for mutated DNA that dying cells shed in five patients die in the year they are diagnosed. PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS into the blood, and protein biomarkers associated Women with ovarian cancer detected early on could with bowel, breast, liver, lung, esophageal, ovarian, have 92 percent chance of surviving, but only 15 Advances in science How serious is the problem? pancreatic and stomach cancer. The test looks for percent of all ovarian cancers are found at an early and technology bolster The situation is getting more and more serious mutations in 16 genes that regularly occur in cancer, stage. progress in almost around the world where these devices are available. and eight proteins that are often released. CancerSEEK could change all that. The journal all facets of human Parents are quite aware of this addiction, saying this The test detected 70 percent of the cancers in Science reported that CancerSEEK is novel because endeavor, making most is a new form of Attention Deficit Disorder, labeling it hunts for both the mutated DNA and the proteins. (unfortunately, not all) it computer/mobile phone ADD. Pediatricians and The blood test could complement other cancer people more comfort- psychologists are seeing more and more adolescents screening tools as well. able, more efficient, and even toddlers with this problem. School per- An Australian researcher involved in the study, and more productive, formance suffers too. Those addicted to computer professor Peter Gibbs from the Walter and Eliza Hall not to mention other games have increased risk for restlessness, anxiety, Institute, told ABC News, ”For the first time we’re benefits we derive from them as individuals and depression, weight gain, and metabolic syndrome. seeing potential for a blood test that can screen for as a society. Carpal Tunnel and vision problem is also common many types of nasty cancers that until now we’ve The birth of the mind-boggling computer from computer abuse. The question of radiation had to wait until symptoms are diagnosed quite ushered in one of the brightest inventions of man, is still an unsettled matter, even with the use of late.” which enabled the exponential developments and mobile phones. While not everyone might be too keen on get- proliferation of very efficient machines, devices, What is the social impact of this addiction? ting a colonoscopy to rule out cancer of the colon, (Photo: www.everydayhealth.com) and gadgets. Electronic addicts keep to themselves. They Gibbs said pretty much everyone “would be happy to Just like most progress, the computer age are in their own private world for hours, no talking have a blood test.” also brings with it some health, behavioral, social, to anyone, not even to one another, much less their more than 1,000 patients with cancers in the ovary, “This is of massive potential. This is the Holy and even legal consequences. Its abuse leads parents. The same goes true with toddlers, who liver, stomach, pancreas, esophagus, colon, lung or Grail—a blood test to diagnose cancer without all to electronic addiction. Much like dealing with would develop attention deficit, with their external breast. More importantly, it did so before the can- the other procedures like scans or colonoscopy,” Dr. drugs, tobacco, and alcohol, personal and societal (non-electronic) environment, poor eating habit, cers had spread, giving patients a fighting chance at Gert Attard, team leader in the Center for Evolution discipline is fundamental. slower speech development, and diminished social beating the disease. and Cancer at the Institute of Cancer Research, Lon- Of the 7 billion people on planet Earth, 6.8 skills. These are also found among older children About 800 volunteers who had not yet been don, and consultant medical oncologist at the Royal billion have mobile phones. In the United States, and some adults. There were reports that kids had diagnosed with cancer were also tested. According to Marsden NHS Foundation Trust, told the BBC. 92 percent have their own mobile phone. In the threatened to shoot their parents for cutting their ABC News, US researchers are currently conducting CancerSEEK is designed for people 50 and Philippines, there are about 30.4 million mobile computer use. Misuse or abuse of social media the test on 10,000 more people to examine its effec- above as well as younger people with a family history phone users in 2017. There are 84 percent of could also ruin privacy, invite identity theft, expose tivity as well as to help determine its cost to patients of cancer. Gibbs told ABC he hopes the test would Americans who have a computer, and 73 percent children/teenagers to dangerous situations from in the future. become part of an annual regular checkup. (Anne of them have internet connection. Tablets for kids criminals, and potential legal dilemmas. “This field of early detection is critical, and the Jambora / inquirer.net) are very popular today. Does this addiction affect family life? results are very exciting. I think this can have an When was the word “computer” coined? Definitely. When everybody, parents included, It was in 1613 when the word “computer” was go separate ways at home, in their own little cocoon, Sitting for long? You are inviting death first used, describing a human who performed cal- their own private world, with their electronic de- Those who spend 10 or more years doing but it is not enough. Avoid sitting, especially pro- culations. This word lingered until the industrial vice, and not talk to each other, or even eat or pray sedentary work, have twice the risk of getting colon longed bouts,” he said. revolution at the end of the 19th century devel- together, family bonding is negatively impacted. cancer. Meanwhile, Dayangku Dr Ha-jah Norazieda oped machines whose main purpose was calculat- Unless wise and sober house rules are promulgated This was highlighted by Professor Dr David Koh binti Pengiran Haji Md Yassin in her talk, ‘Risk Fac- ing. The first automatic computing machines was by both parents and siblings with regards to the yesterday, during the 3rd National Scientific Sym- tors for Stroke’, said that the condition is the leading developed by Charles Babbage in 1822, but it was use of electronic devices, including computer toys, posium, held at the Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah cause of disabilities and the second leading cause of 15 years later when he proposed the first general electronic addiction could destroy the family and Sa’adatul Bolkiah (PAPRSB) Institute of Health Sci- death, globally. mechanical computer, which was called the Ana- the individual members. Imagine the children not ences (IHS) of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD). “In 2008, it caused six million deaths and every lytical Engine. paying attention to their parents, or grandparents, In his talk titled, ‘Is Sitting the New Smoking?’ year, around 15 million people suffer from it,” she The first electromechanical binary program- or to each other, or even to their friends in school, Professor Dr Koh said that long periods of sitting said. mable functional computer, called Z1, was created who are likewise addicted. When electronics is not can lead to serious health consequences. “In Brunei it is the leading cause of death, by Konrad Zuse, a German, in his parents’ living only a part of children’s life but the only life they “On average, office workers sit for 76 per cent of where in 2016, it caused 123 fatalities. The most room between 1936 and 1938. The comput- have, they will face a future of health, social, and the day,” he said. “Evidence suggests that prolonged important thing to remember about stroke is that it ers then were huge, occupying an entire room, psychological issues. To the addicts, the real life sitting increases the risks for cancer, cardiovascu- can happen to anyone at anytime, anywhere.” compared to today’s miniature and a lot more becomes boring, the virtual world, exciting. lar diseases (CVDs) and death. Those sitting for 11 Jointly hosted by the Brunei Darussalam As- powerful devices. But the foundation for theories Are electronic devices that bad? hours a day have a 40 per cent risk of death within sociation of Medical Laboratory Scientists (BAMLS) about computing and computers was originally Of course, not. These wonderful devices can the next three years, compared to those who sit for and the PAPRSB IHS of UBD from January 19-21, proposed by Alan Turing in 1936, the Turing ma- enable adults, children, and toddlers to expand four hours a day. Prolonged sitting is an indepen- the symposium featured nine workshops and nine chine. The fundamentals Turing set have enabled their vision, knowledge, skills, and help fulfill their dent risk factor, even if you exercise regularly. Long conferences on the themes cancer, lifestyle diseases the development of our computers of today. dreams with a treasury of information and data, period of sitting are a suspected risk factor for mus- and infectious diseases. When was portable computer born? all available in split seconds, at their finger tips. culoskeletal disorders – even short, regular breaks Under the theme ‘Innovation Precision Medi- Osborne I, released on April 1981, was truly The regular use of Alexa, Cortana, Siri, Google As- from sitting are beneficial for workers’ health.” cine for Patient Care’, the three-day event provided a the first portable computer or laptop, developed sistant, or Google itself is not only convenient but Professor Dr Koh also said that the 5.3 – 5.7 platform for medical scientists and experts to share by Adam Osborne. It weighed 24.5 pounds, with efficient and a joy. They are enhancers, enablers, million deaths from non-communicable diseases their views regarding laboratory and clinical medi- a 5-inch display, 64 KB of memory, two floppy and facilitators, providing the user instant access (NCDs) worldwide could have been prevented, if cine, with regard to patient care. (inquirer.net) drives, and ran the CP/M 2.2 operating system, to information, time, weather, music, restaurant people were sufficiently active. “Being active helps, and a modem, priced at $1,795. It was in 1975 or movie reservations, shopping, and hundreds of when Ed Roberts came up with the term “personal other uses. Artificial intelligence, robots included, computer, introducing his Altair 8800, although would someday be a regular household fixture for many considered Kenbak-1, which came out in most, if not all, homes. The internet today allows HOROSCOPE 1971 for $750 as the first personal computer. you to journey all around the galaxy, without having http://www.starlightastrology.com Is computer addiction real? to leave your home or office, saving you gasoline Yes, it is. I know because I love electronics and airfares. And they are very entertaining too. Aries Libra and feel the temptation. Usually it is a combina- When used for family game or entertainment, etc., (Mar. 21- April 20) (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) tion of computer (internet) addiction and cell electronics are good for bonding. The kitchen knife You should teach children some of your unique Relationships will form if you get out and do phone (text or call) addiction. The signs and could be used to prepare meals for your loved ones, creative talents. You may interest some of them things that you enjoy. Your ideas will be well symptoms are very obvious among young and or used to hurt them or yourself. All really depends in a service you have to offer. Get back into a received. Communication must be open, precise, old alike, and even among toddlers. They would on how you intelligently and wisely you use the routine that promises a better looking, more and honest. Don’t expect the whole family to be rather delay everything else, even their meals electronic devices you have. They are actually a aware individual. You will do your best work on overjoyed. or sleep, in favor of computing, browsing, doing fantabulous magical gem, one that even elevates the your own. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. social media, or gaming, or texting or calling. level of the happy hormones in us, one reason why Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. They sleep and wake up with a cell phone or tablet it is addicting. Scorpio or laptop in bed. Lo-bat drives them anxious and Visit philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@ Taurus (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) angry, and toddlers have been known to throw gmail.com (Apr. 21- may 21) You should make sure that your personal tantrums and cry. Be careful that you aren’t saddled with the papers are in order. Your personal secrets may responsibilities of others. Your high energy be revealed if you let coworkers in on your should be spent pleasing your mate. Try to be family dilemmas. You may want to take a trip; considerate in your personal obligations. You however, before you do, make sure that your car should spend your day trying to get things is serviced properly. Romance may be likely if KrosWord completed at work. you travel. (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo) Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday.

Gemini Sagittarius PAHALANG (May 22-June 21) (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 1 Malapad na panghuli Don’t get involved in secret affairs or Discrimination will be in order. Control your ng isda temper when dealing with your emotional underhanded involvement’s. Don’t allow your 8 Boso lover to take advantage of your good nature. partner. Avoid purchasing expensive items. Arguments will flare up if you get backed into Competitive games will be your forte. Mingle with 9 Pera ng Saudi Arabia an emotional corner. You can expect changes at those who can help you get ahead. 12 Bukang-liwayway your work place. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. 13 Kandili Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. 14 Birhen Capricorn 15 Lamutak Cancer (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 16 Pabuya (June 22-July 22) Don’t let your work and your personal life 17 Barkilyos You can dazzle members of the opposite interfere with each other. Social events will be 18 Tambang favorable. You may want to get a little extra rest. sex with your quick wit and aggressive charm. 20 Ms. Curtis, artista You may want to get involved in financial You are prone to infections and fevers. You may investments presented to you. Courses dealing be tom between two possibilities. This has left 22 Chimpanzee with psychology or health care will be of interest. you in a confused and uncertain state. 23 Bating Espanyol Think twice before you volunteer information. Your lucky day this week will be Monday. 25 Bilis Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. 28 Kabilang pampang Aquarius 31 Pangalang pambabae Leo (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 32 Kupad (July 23-Aug 22) Don’t put limitations on yourself. If you’re 33 Prutas na nasa Uncertain changes regarding your personal willing to cut loose you will find yourself in the ibabaw ang buto midst of an exciting encounter. Take a short life are evident. You will find that money could 34 ___Bin Laden slip through your fingers. If you can include business trip if possible. Your determination may them in your plans, do so. Take care of any make you a little overbearing when dealing with 35 Pang-iistorbo medical problems if they’ve been troubling you. others. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. PABABA Virgo Pisces 1 Nakakabit sa dulo 8 Ayaw magbayad ng utang 24 Impo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) ng pamingwit 10 Propriyedad 26 River sa Tagalog Your intellectual wit will bring greater Be diplomatic when dealing with in-law. 2 Mataas na baraha 11 Praternal na piging 27 Panghalip panaong isahan popularity with your peers. Your lack of interest You may want to get involved in financial 3 Singaw sa balat 18 Sawata 29 Matanda (Waray) in your partner is a problem. You may want to investments presented to you. Take that long 4 Bayan sa Pampanga 19 Kusing 30 Kaibigang matalik take a look at courses offered at a local institute. overdue vacation if you can. Overindulgent 5 Leksiyon 20 Hindi makatagal sa trabaho You can ferret out secret information if you just people will cause disruptions in your life. 6 Mahabang tilad dahil sa sakit listen to what others have to say. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. na kawayan 21 Natunghayan Answers to this week’s Krosword 7 Miranda o Goiti 22 Lusob on NEXT WEEK’S issue B6 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 entertainment Pia Wurtzbach: Arnold Clavio on Karen Davila’s lament over ‘who’s next There’s more to me than being Miss Universe after Rappler’ joke: ‘Solidarity and courage’ is the message Pia Wurtzbach is a self- GMA news- count in the confessed “chocoholic.” Unbe- caster Arnold process. lievable but true. As the brand Clavio took to “Is this ambassador of Filipinos’ fave Instagram to call your post homegrown chocolate brand, out ABS-CBN @iam- Goya, our Miss Universe says newscaster Karen karenda- that even beauty queens deserve Davila after the vila? Can’t “cheat days” after a long and latter tweeted she believe you hectic day. was saddened that didn’t even Here’s my chat with Pia: some colleagues get our If you were chocolate, were making fun of side,” wrote what kind would you be? Dark. Rappler’s issue with Clavio. “Ha- Because you think it’s bitter, but the Securities and latang hindi it also tastes sweet. I’m a bundle Exchange Commis- mo kasi of surprises. And dark is the sion. (L-R) Arnold Clavio and Karen Davila napanood o richest and healthiest variant. Last Jan. 11, (Photo: www.philnews.ph) napaking- It’s so me. Rich in the sense the SEC ordered for Davila wrote, “YES! Key gan eh at that I am all-in since I don’t do Pia Wurtzbach the revocation of online news words – solidarity & courage. naki-tsismis kalang.” (It’s obvi- things half-heartedly. (Photo: www.primer.com.ph) site Rappler’s license to operate. It saddens me to hear some ous you didn’t watch or listen, What’s your resolution for Davila appears to be per- colleagues making jokes on air you just looked for gossip.) 2018? I will make better deci- Marlon Stockinger’s approval Cancer (call 0927-8794541). taining to Clavio and his radio on Rappler being shut down or Clavio said that “solidarity sions and get more work done. (laughs). Buboy is a golf enthusiast. His show on Super Radyo DZBB which one’s next.” and courage” was indeed the Do you feel pressured that (Winners of Goya’s “Get a awards in golf almost match his 594khz last Tuesday, Jan. 16. During the radio show last message behind his Balitawit. you have to answer in beauty- Taste of World-Class Promo” numerous acting awards. Clavio, along with co-hosts Tuesday, Clavio apparently sang He wrote the refrain of his queen fashion every time you will go on six-day, all-expense One of my fave Christmas Mike Enriquez and Susan a Balitawit (news-song) on air Balitawit for Davila to see: “Pa- are interviewed? I feel that, paid trips to Paris, San Fran- gifts was from Ogie Alcasid and Enriquez, allegedly made fun of amidst fits of laughter, with the nahon na naman ng paglaban. sometimes, but I don’t let it get cisco, New York and London. Regine Velasquez, who sent me Rappler’s closure order, hinting lyrics, “May narinig ako sa may Panahon na naman. Panahon to me. There’s more to me than Check out GoyaChocoholics on a sampler of their super yummy that ABS-CBN will be next. Ignacia ay susunod na. May na naman ng paglaban. Gumis- being Miss Universe. Funny Facebook.) bottled delights: hot and spicy In Davila’s Twitter account, narinig ako kay Maria Ressa na ing ka. Tara na!” (It’s time again trivia I want to share is this: My BFF Cesar Montano is tuyo and smoked bangus (visit she retweeted a link to an In- nauna na.” to fight. It’s time. It’s time again When I was training for the mounting his 3rd Buboy Golf GreenRoom’s Facebook page quirer column by physician and Enriquez then blurted out, to fight. Wake up. Let’s go.) pageant, I wore heels even while Cup on Feb. 16 (6:30 a.m. and for details). The Alcasids got the medical anthropologist Gideon “Susunod na kayo.” (You guys “Maraming salamat sa doing household chores, so I 12 noon) at Pradera Verde Golf perfect recipe in and out of the Lasco, who wrote about the are next.) nakaintindi,” said Clavio. “Sa would get the feel of it. and Country Club in Lubao, kitchen, on and offstage. (Dolly Rappler and SEC issue. Lasco Clavio, on the other hand, hindi like you, sorry na lang.” What’s your next project? Pampanga. It’s for the benefit of Anne Carvajal / inquirer.net) wrote that despite the threats took a screenshot of Davila’s (Thank you to those who under- Doing a movie with Gerald Marawi victims and the Phil- towards institutions, now is the tweet and posted it on his own stood. For those who didn’t, like Anderson, with my boyfriend ippine Foundation for Breast time for solidarity among those Instagram page. There, he you, well, sorry.) (Cody Cepeda who find themselves at the wrote a long message for Davila, / inquirer.net) receiving end of repression. tagging her own Instagram ac- Still hurting? hints that ex-BF’s current flame ‘ruined the relationship’ ‘It’s Showtime’ host Vhong Navarro’s father dies the two laughed hysterically. death. spend Christmas with their pa- The “three month rule” Offering their condolences, dre de pamilya in the hospital. phrase was made famous by they gave a moment of silence A week later, he told his ’s character for the host’s father. “Alam father “Kapit lang.” (Hold on.) Popoy in the blockbuster 2007 naming kaya mo ‘yan at nandito On his birthday, he took romantic movie “One More kami buong pamilya mo… at the opportunity to post throw- Chance”. ang buong madlang people na back photos of the two of them. “Wala akong masabi d’yan. kasama mo sa pagdadalamhati Navarro was grateful that “ang Ang ano kasi dyan… mali ‘yan! mo,” Navarro’s co-host, Jhong pahiramin pa samin ang buhay Mali ‘yan! Wag mo nang kit- Hilario said to console his mo ang isang pinaka magan- ain!” Panganiban answered. (I friend. dang regalong [natanggap] ko don’t have a reply to that. The (We know that you can go [ngayong] kaarawan ko.” (Your problem there is… that’s wrong! Vhong Navarro through this, and we’re here, life still being lent to us is one That’s wrong! Don’t meet up (Photo: www.lookbook.nu) your entire family, and our au- of the greatest gifts I’ve received with her!) dience; we’re with you through on my birthday.) ‘Instant family’ The father of “It’s Show- your grief.) Aside from being a host In another question, a time” host Vhong Navarro It was not made clear what of “It’s Showtime”, Navarro is viewer named Alexa asked for died today, his fellow co-hosts the cause of his father’s death known for his dancing skills, advice as her current boyfriend Angelica Panganiban revealed on the noontime show. was, but Navarro had been as he was part of the popular (Photo: www.pinterest.co.uk) of two months supposedly got One of the show’s host, posting photos on his Instagram 1990s group Streetboys, along a girl pregnant. Upon reading Amy Perez, announced that page, revealing that his father with Hilario. (Katrina Hallare / For Angelica Panganiban, ko ‘yun.” (I don’t know, I might the question from a cue card, Navarro’s dad, Danilo, passed had been hospitalized. inquirer.net) there has definitely been pain hurt her.) She then dropped the Panganiban dropped the paper on. Navarro was not present on In one such photo, Navarro from her previous relationship. bomb by saying, “Kasi unang- and looked jokingly stunned. today’s show due to his father’s and his whole family chose to But instead of reeling from una, hindi naman ako pinalitan. “Nasa sa’yo naman ‘yan it, she chose to allude to her Pinilit eh! Pinilit sirain ‘yung kung ia-accept mo or ano… in- former flame in a lighthearted relasyon, kaya may galit.” (Be- stant family ‘di ba? Kung gusto 90th Oscars music nominees: manner. cause in the first place, I wasn’t mo, ikaw na magpalaki dun sa In a Youtube video titled replaced. She forced it! She bagets,” Panganiban replied. Mary J. Blige, Sufjan Stevens, Johnny Greenwood given first Academy nods #AskAngelica posted last Fri- forced to ruin the relationship, (It’s up to you if you will accept day, the “Ang Dalawang Mrs. that’s why there’s anger.) it or not or… instant family, Mary J. Blige and Common of “Marshall” Reyes” star shared love advice Cariaga then said that her right? If you want, you can take Sufjan Stevens join Oscar track “Stand Up for to fans. Panganiban could not ex-boyfriend appears to have care of the kid.) elite with their first nomi- Something” won in 2015 help but add some hugot into violated the “three month rule” It was not made clear nations for Best Original with a co-writing credit her answers. cited by the guy himself; she throughout the video who Pan- Song ahead of the 90th on “Selma” track “Glory” On one instance, Donna said that before they ended their ganiban was alluding to. She Academy Awards on (“Marshall” songwriting Cariaga of the noontime show relationship, her ex-boyfriend was in a relationship with Cruz March 4, 2018. partner, veteran composer “It’s Showtime” said that the had already been with the new for three and a half years. They R&B star and actress Dianne Warren, has eight new girlfriend of her ex-boy- girlfriend. broke up in January 2016. Cruz Mary J. Blige collected her other Oscar nominations), friend wants to meet her. She Smiling, Panganiban asked, is now dating Ellen Adarna, first acting and songwrit- while Justin Paul and asked Panganiban what she “Saan mo narinig ‘yung ‘three with speculations that the two ing Oscar nods in one fell Benj Pasek scooped Best would do if she were in this month rule’ na ‘yan?” (Where are getting married and expect- swoop as nominations Original Song in 2017 same situation. did you hear about that “three ing a baby. (Cody Cepeda / were announced on Jan. with one of two cuts from Panganiban first reacted month rule”?). Not giving a defi- inquirer.net) 23, 2018. “La La Land”. by laughing, then answered, nite answer, Cariaga muttered, Her involvement in Over in Best Original “Hindi ko alam, baka masaktan “Si ano po eh… si ano,” to which rural United States post- Score, Radiohead guitar- war drama “Mudbound” ist Jonny Greenwood puts her under consider- mingles with the likes of ation for both Best Sup- Hans Zimmer and John Xian Lim leaves , signs on to Viva porting Actress and Best Williams thanks to his Original Song (“Mighty “Phantom Thread” com- Xian Lim has transferred for five years. The actor expressed his River”). positions. to Viva Artists Agency after an On his love team with Kim gratitude to his Star Magic han- Likewise, Sufjan Zimmer is recom- eight-year stint with ABS-CBN Chiu dubbed KimXi, Lim reas- dlers on Instagram. “There will Stevens gets his name mended for the accolade talent center Star Magic. on an Academy Award via the “Dunkirk” score In a press conference fea- nomination ballot for while all-time leading tured on ABS-CBN News, Lim the first time, following nominee Williams com- said his contract was expiring the inclusion of his song posed for “Star Wars: The with Star Magic and that Viva “The Mystery of Love” in Last Jedi”. offered him the movie proj- the coming-of-age drama Alexandre Desplat ect “Miss Granny” with Sarah “Call Me by Your Name”. converted the most recent Geronimo and James Reid. In total, the two of his eight other nomina- “I was very excited,” he said features have four nomi- tions into an Academy of the project. nations each across all Award with 2014’s “The “Even a couple of years categories, ahead of fellow Grand Budapest Hotel”. back, kapag tinatanong ako, Original Song contenders He was double-nominated sino ang mga gusto mo maka- “Remember Me” (from that year with “The Imita- pareha (when I would be asked Disney Pixar’s “Coco”), tion Game” also on the who I wanted to be paired with), Xian Lim “Stand Up for Something” list, while Carter Burwell I mean, to be able to work with (Photo: www.notey.com) (from “Marshall”) and of “Three Billboards Out- Sarah, it’s already a very huge “This is Me” (from “The side Ebbing, Missouri” blessing, and siyempre si James Greatest Showman”). returns after the 2016 din (of course James too).” sured, “The KimXi tandem will never be any goodbyes, just see The writers of those nominee “Carol”. (Ka- The 28-year-old actor will always be there.” He added that you around,” he said. last three songs are not trina Hallare / inquirer. play a record producer who is she was “very supportive” of The contract signing was just repeat nominees but net) Geronimo’s love interest in the him. held at the Viva Group of Com- most are in fact repeat adaptation of the South Korean And while working with panies boardroom in Pasig city. winners. (Top-bottom) Mary J. movie. Viva also opens the possibility In attendance were CEO Vic Kristen Anderson- Blige, Sufjan Stevens, He didn’t specify how long to transfer to other networks, he “Boss Vic” del Rosario, presi- and Johnny Greenwood Lopez and Robert Lopez he mulled over the big move, said, “Gusto ko lang sabihin na dent and COO Veronique del (Photos: www.today. but said it took him a long time (I just want to say that) I really Rosario-Corpus and executive of “Coco” won in 2014 com / www. pitch- for “Let it Go”, one of the fork.com / www. to make the decision. Lim is love ABS-CBN. ABS-CBN has June Torrejon-Rufino.(Nina V. themes from “Frozen”; en.wikipedia.org) signed on to the talent agency always been my home.” Guno / inquirer.net) January 25 - 31, 2018 FilAm Star B7 entertainment James Deakin gets flak for photo with Bongbong Lav, Piolo make Berlinale comeback Marcos; takes Kris Aquino as ‘shield’ Filipino filmmaker Lav Diaz dor, Bituin Escalante, Don Mel- makes a splashy comeback in the vin Boongaling, Lilit Reyes, Ian Multimedia motoring journalist and road safety to prove his point. The video, “The Kris List Ep. 4 A-list festival, Berlinale, which Lomongo, Noel Sto. Domingo, advocate James Deakin was faced with backlash Driving with Deakin”, was uploaded on the official will be held in Germany from Bradley Liew, Junji Delfino, Dub after a photo of him with former senator Ferdinand YouTube account of Aquino called “The Aquinos”. Feb. 15 to 25. Lau, and Gan Hui Yee complete “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. was discovered. The photo The video can be watched through this link: The The last time Diaz competed the cast. was uploaded on Instagram last Jan. 17 by Brandon Kris List Ep. 4 Driving with Deakin in the top-tier film event was in Described as a rock opera, the Vera, a Filipino-American mixed martial artist. The Queen of All Media Kris Aquino, however, 2016, with the eight-hour his- black-and-white film is set during In the photo, Deakin can be seen sitting right was not happy with Deakin’s comment. She took to torical epic, “Hele sa Hiwagang the martial-law era, in a far-flung next to Marcos on the front seats, while Vera and her own Instagram and uploaded a photo last night Hapis,” which won the Silver Bear village in the Philippines that is architect Jun Palafox sat behind them. which took a jab at Deakin to “woman up.” Alfred Bauer Prize. terrorized by a gang of militias. As the photo gained traction, Deakin took Aquino did not mince words. She wondered Diaz also won the Golden The head of this year’s Berlin to Facebook to give a piece of his mind. Deakin out loud why a certain Road Safety Enthusiast and Lion at the Venice Film Festival jury is German director, screen- defended himself after waking up to a lot of hate Influencer had to drag her into the discussion as a that same year for “Ang Babaeng writer, composer and producer from Twitter users, and said that the photo was for “shield.” Humayo.” Tom Tykwer, renowned for such an upcoming vlog of his, called “How do you solve a “Was peacefully recuperating but a Road Two years later, Diaz is join- films as “Run, Lola, Run” and problem like Manila”. Safety Enthusiast and Influecer had to drag me as ing Berlin’s main competition “Cloud Atlas.” Even more, Deakin denies that he is a BBM de- a ‘shield’ when he got some unwanted reactions again – with the musical “Ang The opening film in the 2018 fender but at the same time, also says he is not a de- because of a picture that had been posted to drum Panahon ng Halimaw” (Season Berlinale is Wes Anderson’s ani- tractor. “So for the record, I’m not a BBM defender. up some noise for an upcoming vlog,” she wrote. of the Devil), which runs at three mated movie, “Isle of Dogs.” Lav Diaz Nor am I a detractor,” wrote Deakin. “I’m a trans- Aquino did not stop there. She also uploaded hours and 50 minutes. Hailed as one of the world’s (Photo: www.en.wikipedia.org) port journalist a blog post in Diaz is sharing this Berlinale most prestigious film festivals and road safety her Facebook comeback with some actors from (along with Cannes and Venice), advocate that is account which “Hele,” namely Piolo Pascual, An- the Berlinale attracts 20,000 Another Filipino film, Keith passionate about she entitled gel Aquino, Hazel Orencio, Joel film professionals, practitioners, Deligero’s “Babylon,” is compet- finding solutions “Blog #3:WO- Saracho and Bart Guingona. critics and fans from over 120 ing in the Shorts section. (Bayani to this traffic MAN UP”. Shaina Magdayao, Pinky Ama- countries. San Diego Jr. / inquirer.net) crisis we are all There, she had going through.” more to say to In follow- Deakin: up comments, “Let’s be Two PH films go to Serbia Deakin said, “On HONEST. a side note, for We were Carlo Francisco Manatad’s short film, “Jodilerks those who have both hired by dela Cruz, Employee of the Month,” competed in always asked me Petron to do the main section. Meanwhile, Paolo Villaluna’s full- why I don’t run a webisode length feature film, “Pauwi Na,” was presented in for office, this for them. the Contemporary Trends program. the exact reason NAGTRA- In spite of the freezing weather, Villaluna and why. Politics (L-R) James Deakin, Brandon Vera, Jun Palafox, and Bongbong Marcos BAHO TAYO Manatad enjoyed themselves at the event, which is too divisive. (Photo: www.northluzon.politics.com.ph) (We worked). was held in a traditional village that Serbian film- Blinding. It BINAYARAN maker Emir Kusturica had built for his film, “Life relies on hatred.” TAYO (We were paid). You were informative & very Is a Miracle.” Deakin asked further, “Why do some assume good for on cam conversation… Now i understand Villaluna recalled that Romanian filmmaker that if you participate in a recorded conversation the need to ‘explain’ yourself but really? You’ll use Cristian Mungiu, head of the jury of last year’s with a public official, you are automatically pro?” 5’3 me as a ‘shield’?” Shanghai fest, had told Kusturica about “Pauwi Netizens, however, weren’t happy with In a more recent Instagram post, however, Na,” winner of the top prize in the A-list event held Deakin’s explanation and tried to engage with him Aquino posted text messages of Deakin to her, in China. on his own Facebook wall. explaining himself to clear things up. It was “I am happy that the ‘Pedicab’ family is continu- “Perhaps sir you could have been more cir- noted that it was Luis Manzano, Aquino’s inaanak ing to travel and share its story with the world,” cumspect. That’s BBM right there, a guy known for (godchild), who connected Deakin with Aquino by Villaluna told the Inquirer. “I am especially elated hiring a social media army to shore up his family’s giving him her number. because this Serbian fest is programmed by a age,” one commenter wrote. “Are you that naive?” Deakin told Aquino that he was working when three-time Cannes winner [Kusturica].” Points about Marcos no longer being a senator and the photo of him with BBM was taken, but people “Pauwi Na” was shown alongside such interna- not involved with policy-making were also raised. mistook it for an endorsement of Deakin for the tionally acclaimed productions as Cannes winner Others recommended that Deakin should have latter. Ruben Östlund’s “The Square” and Paolo Sorren- asked Marcos about the “billions” his family accu- Aquino replied, saying she appreciated him tino’s “The Young Pope.” Villaluna and the other mulated from “[skimming] off government coffers.” reaching out to her to explain himself. And, as in all directors in the Contemporary Trends section also Meanwhile, in a now deleted comment, Deakin things in life, she told him that this too shall pass. took part in workshops with students. was found saying that he interviews or shares After things were patched up, Aquino ad- Manatad, for his part, said: “It’s nice to be back (Photo: www.cinemalaya.org) his advice with all sorts of people, including the dressed Deakin personally in her Instagram, saying, to an event that I’ve always loved. It feels good that Aquinos. “And to James Deakin, I sincerely appreciate the Two Filipino films were showcased at the recent the festival recognizes my work as at par with films Deakin then proceeded to post a YouTube humble gesture to reach out, apologize & clear the 11th Küstendorf International Film and Music Fes- coming from different parts of the globe.” (Bayani video link of Kris Aquino with him last May 2017 air quickly. (Cody Cepeda / inquirer.net) tival, held in Drvengrad, Mokra Gora, Serbia. San Diego Jr. / inquirer.net) B8 FilAm Star January 25 - 31, 2018 entertainment A run-through of Isabelle Duterte’s debut: 5 outfit changes, lavish 5-course meal, Hermes giveaways

grand debut still prevail. This floral-embroidered Michael doesn’t come as a surprise, as Leyva dress for her debut teaser the preparations leading to video, produced by Hello & Co. Duterte’s celebration have been Cinema. made public and only foreshad- For her last outfit, Duterte owed the rest of the grandeur slipped into an understated that was to come. white lace gown by Jefferson Si. Duterte’s debut was held Apart from her multiple in the Rigodon Ballroom of The outfit changes, the food served Peninsula Manila, Makati City. in the debut were also revealed It was noted, however, that when a certain Ivy Lee (@ grandfather President Rodrigo ivyleemanila) shared photos of Duterte and father, former the lavish five-course spread on Vice Mayor of Davao City Paolo Instagram last Jan. 21. Duterte, were absent. The menu included seared Days after Duterte’s debut, jumbo lump crab cake for start- more details from the celebra- ers, wild mushroom bisque for Isabelle Duterte in her Swarovski-bejewelled Michael Cinco gown tion surfaced as her manifold the soup, and angel hair aglio Isabelle Duterte blowing her debut cake (Photo: www.coconuts.co) guests took to their own social olio pasta for the first entree. (Photo: www.coconuts.co) Even though presidential birthday four days ago, last Brown Brothers. She seemed to still be on first granddaughter Isabelle Jan. 19, it seems that remnants Days after her debut, a high as she called the whole Duterte celebrated her 18th of the pomp and noise of her Duterte uploaded a picture of sumptuous affair “bliss.” (Cody herself on Instagram drinking Cepeda / inquirer.net) wine during the latter part of the celebration.

Isabelle Duterte posing inside the ballroom of the Manila Peninsula Hotel (Photo: www.nextshark.com)

media accounts to share mo- The guests were also treated ments from the grand event. to a 12-hour braised U.S. bone- Stylist Jeff Galang posted a less beef short rib for the second series of photos of Duterte’s entree, and Napoleon for des- outfit changes, starting with a sert. It has been reported that sweet silk boudoir robe from La the cost per head is P4,500. Tercera while she was getting Duterte’s showstopper her hair and makeup done. birthday cake was a towering Duterte was also captured multi-tiered pastel creation posing with her P2 million adorned with pink sugar flowers Swarovski-bejewelled Michael and crystal beads. Cinco gown, with her other On the other hand, another outfits lined up behind her. photo by @adorjhun uploaded Galang also showed the in Jan. 20 showed guests being shoes Duterte used for her de- given goody bags from luxury but: sky-high Jefferson Si heels fashion house Hermés. in blue and silver. Other debut giveaways For her dance number, Du- included handcrafted fragrances Isabelle Duterte wearing a white pantsuit from Orias Studio terte wore a white pantsuit from from Smitten Fragrances and Isabelle Duterte in her “getting ready” dress and robe custom La Tercera. (Photo: www.nextshark.com) Orias Studio. She also wore a limited edition prosecco from (Photo: www.nextshark.com)