STEALING FREE NEWSPAPER IS STILL A CRIME !

AB 2612, PLESCIA CRIME

PH ‘most ignorant’ - poll WEEKLY ISSUE 70 CITIES IN 11 STATES ONLINE Vol. IX Issue 462 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 February 15 - 21, 2018 Duterte tells ex-NPA rebels,

PH NEWS | A2 ‘we will shoot your vagina’ By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent

Duterte rages over telco war President Rodrigo Duterte, who has been known for his “violent and misogynistic remarks,” continue to draw flaks and condemnations for his latest attack on women when he said the country’s female rebels should be shot in the vagina as punishment for fighting the government. Addressing more than 200 former rebels during a merienda at the Heroes Hall in Malacanang last PH NEWS | A3 February 7, he asked in the Visayan language if the women are holding Coach hands reins over guns. Warriors - still win The Visayan language is spoken in the central and southern Philip- pines where the President came from. He also served as mayor in Davao City in Mindanao for over two decades. The former rebels told him women-members of the New People’s Army “fight like Amazons.” (L-R) Gabriela Rep. Emmi De Jesus and President Rodrigo Duterte Duterte responded, “tell the (Photos: www.remate.ph / www.news.com.au) SPORTS NEWS | A5 TO PAGE A7 Deportation of teacher Gov’t to seek foreign pathologists to build postponed in mid-flight PH eyeing China and Russia as case vs. anti-dengue vaccine maker alternative OFW destinations By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent The Philippines will turn to of the Department of Health (DoH)— repatriation of OFWs in Kuwait after foreign experts to bolster criminal the agency that implemented the mass reports of maltreatment and deaths of charges over the Dengvaxia fiasco. immunization program and at the domestic workers in the country. This was determined in a meeting frontline of the public health scare “Maglagda kami ng bilateral recently when Justice Sec. Vitaliano that has gripped families of about agreement with China kung saan ay Aguirre II briefed President Rodrigo 870,000 school children. magpapadala rin tayo ng ating mga LEGAL & LAW | B4 Duterte on the status of the agency’s “Dahil sa kakulangan ng clinical overseas Filipino workers,” Bello said investigations into the deaths associ- pathologist dito sa Pilipinas, eh nag- in an interview over Super Radyo dzBB ated with the anti-dengue vaccine. salita na po ang Presidente na kung Kris Aquino turns 47 on Saturday. The National Bureau of Investiga- kinakailangan, kukuha tayo ng mga on Valentines According to Bello, the bilateral tion (NBI) and the Public Attorney’s dayuhang clinical pathologist para (Photo from Philippine Overseas Employment deal on OFW deployment was sup- Office (PAO), both agencies attached pag-aralan kung itong mga kabataang Administration’s Facebook Page) posed to be signed on the sidelines to the Department of Justice (DoJ), namamatay nga ay namatay dahil MANILA – Last February 10, of the Association of Southeast Asian are conducting probes independently TO PAGE A7 Labor Sec. Silvestre Bello III told GMA Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Novem- News that the Philippines is set to sign ber 2017. Duterte scraps helicopter deal with a bilateral agreement with China on “Medyo humingi lang ng time ang OFW deployment. China para pag-aralang maige ‘yung Canada over human rights review The statement came a day after lalagdaang namin na bilateral agree President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the TO PAGE A7 ENTERTAINMENT | B7 By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent Death of 7 OFWs suspends employment Duterte belittles charges as proceed anymore, and somehow we will look for another supplier,” Duterte certificates, may force Kuwaiti gov’t to Hague int’l court looks into told Philippine Star when he was in sign additional protection for workers extra-judicial killings; cites Davao City. The Philippine and Canadian gov- By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent tapes of Loida Lewis ernments have announced a deal for 16 Bell 412PI utility helicopters. Labor Secretary Silvestre Bello III By Daniel Llanto The Canadian government raised on February 12 issued a total ban on FilAm Star Correspondent concerns that the helicopters would the deployment of overseas Filipino be used to fight rebels. It came after (Photo from Presidential Communications official workers (OFWs) to Kuwait follow- As the International Criminal Major Gen. Restituto Padilla, AFP chief Facebook Page) ing an order from President Rodrigo Court (ICC) in the Hague, Netherlands of plans, said the helicopters would be Duterte due to a “series of reports gave due course to the complaint of MANILA – Last February 9, Presi- used for internal security operations involving abuse and death of OFWs in extra-judicial killings (EJK) against dent Rodrigo Duterte ordered the can- apart from deployment in search-and- Kuwait. President Rodrigo Duterte, the Presi- cellation of the $233M Bell helicopter rescue and disaster relief operations. The ban was contained under Ad- dent said there is no case against him deal with Canada after Canada ordered In a report by Rappler, Bell He- ministrative Order No. 54, which Bello since there is no such thing in penol- a review of the human rights situation licopter said that their aircraft were (L-R) Labor Sec. Silvester Bello III and said may force the Kuwaiti government ogy. in the Philippines. made “for a variety of missions such as Sen. Cynthia Villar to sign the proposed The ICC through Prosecutor Fatou “I want to tell the Armed Forces (of disaster relief, search and rescue, pas (Photos: www.commons.wikipedia.org www.senate.gov.ph) TO PAGE A4 TO PAGE A7 the Philippines) to cut the deal. Do not TO PAGE A4 A2 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 ph news PH ranked 3rd ‘most ignorant’ Deputy speaker says graft charge is Ombudsman’s try to escape impeachment on nation’s key issues

By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent The dismissal order issued by Om- penalties of perpetual disqualification from versial Balili property, a sprawling 249,246 budsman Conchita Carpio Morales against holding public office, cancellation of eligi- square meter lot located in Tinaan, Naga, Deputy Speaker Cebu Rep. Gwen Garcia for bility and forfeiture of retirement benefits. Cebu, for PHP 98.926. Local authorities graft has been trashed by the House of Rep- Alvarez said nothing in the Constitu- later discovered that 196,696 square meters resentatives which regards it as an attempt tion allows him to implement the action of the property were underwater and part of to deter an impeachment complaint lined ordered by the Ombudsman. “In fact, it is a mangrove area. up against Morales. not within the power of the Ombudsman Garcia said: “It does seem as though House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez actu- to discipline, much more to remove, any the Ombudsman singled me out on an act ally hinged his defiance on the Ombuds- member of the House of Representatives,” that was done when I was still governor man’s supposed lack of jurisdiction but his Alvarez said, adding that “if I obey the several years ago,” Garcia told report- trusted deputy ers. “You’d Garcia said it rather wonder all. whether this Garcia was purposely believed the dis- done precisely missal order is a because as blatant attempt you saw, I am to strong-arm very active in her into helping this impeach- her escape im- ment hearing peachment for against Chief Sen. Bam Aquino which a com- Justice Lourdes (Photo: www.interaksyon.com) plaint is set to Sereno,” she be heard by the added. Sen. Bam Aquino ex- that the survey should be a les- House once it is Given its pressed dismay over a survey by son in humility for all Filipinos, through with a lack of legal news website Indy 100 show- saying we should check our similar com- basis, Alvarez ing that the Philippines ranked facts and genuinely listen to plaint against said they will no third among countries “most one another instead of turning Chief Justice longer discuss ignorant” on their nation’s key hostile. Maria Lourdes the order in the issues. During his stint as chair- Sereno. plenary. The survey also ranked man of the Committee on “Further, In a press Filipinos third among those Education, Aquino conducted considering statement, most confident, despite giving a hearing on the responsible that I have (L-R) Deputy Speaker Cebu Rep. Gwen Garcia and Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales impeachment inaccurate answers. use of social media in schools (Photo: www.rappler.com) been vigorously complainant South Africa topped the to fight spread of fake news on and actively lawyer Larry survey while Brazil ranked social media. involved in the dispatch of impeachment Ombudsman’s dismissal order, I will be Gadon said “the zeal and ardent passion of second. In 2016, the Philippines In the said hearing, Aquino complaints such as the one against Chief violating the Constitution since it is stated incisive questioning on the witnesses and ranked 16th in the survey par- urged different stakeholders, Justice Lourdes Sereno, it is no surprise in the Constitution that it is only Congress resource persons in the Sereno impeach- ticipated in by 38 countries. led by the Department of Edu- that Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Mo- that has the power to discipline and remove ment has led the Ombudsman to come out Because of this, he stressed cation (DepEd), to join forces in rales would want to have the impeachment any member from the House of Representa- with an Order of Dismissal against Rep. the need to strengthen the fight combating rampant trolling and complaint dismissed by strong-arming key tives.” Gwen Garcia. against fake news and ramp up spread of misinformation on members of Congress such as myself. My The dismissal order had to do with the It must be noted that the charges quality education efforts to keep social media. dismissal from service at her hands makes controversial purchase of Balili property in against Rep Garcia do not allege any issue Filipinos, especially the youth, Aquino has also urged the her motivation far too obvious,” Garcia Cebu while she was the province’s gover- of graft which enriches herself nor allega- to be fully aware of the coun- Philippine Communications said. nor. For Alvarez, the dismissal order should tions to the effect that she benefitted and try’s issues. Operations Office (PCOO) to Garcia was ordered dismissed for grave have been issued while she was governor, gained personally from the land filling He said many Filipinos get seriously tackle the problem of misconduct when she was Cebu governor. not while she is congresswoman. contract. In fact, the officials who were also confused by data and no longer online disinformation and fake The copy of the decision was brought to It’s about a graft and malversation indicted were exonerated, meaning that recognize the truth. news sites during the recent the office of Alvarez for appropriate action. case in connection with the purchase of there was nothing irregular in the contract. “This is even more dis- fake news hearing at the Senate. But Alvarez made it clear to the Ombuds- the 24.92-hectare Balili property in Tiga- But the provincial accountant who certified tressing when Filipinos resort to He is the principal sponsor man that he would not implement the order an, Naga Cebu in 2008 for Cebu’s human that all necessary documentary require- threats and hate speech online of the free college law and is an against his deputy speaker for its lack of settlement and seaport project. Records ments were complied with was just meted instead of reasonably discussing advocate for access to quality “legal basis.” showed that on June 11, 2008, Garcia, the out with a penalty of suspension. opposing views,” he said. education in the Philippines. The order of dismissal has accessory former Cebu governor, acquired the contro- The Senator further said February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star A3 ph news Arrest warrant to be issued to Comelec chief Telco agencies’ turf war sparks Duterte’s wrath suspected of flight risk with PHP 329M By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent Do not impede the opera- Revealing the Cabinet discus- Sen. Chiz Escudero asked the been out of the country “to explore should execute a waiver. We can’t tion of a third telco. This warning sion where Duterte flatly rejected a Senate to issue a warrant for the professional opportunities and, more compel them to execute a waiver from President Rodrigo Duterte consensus among telecom industry arrest of former Commission on importantly, seek assistance for but we can compel their attendance prompted the PLDT Group to stakeholders that the bidding be Elections (Comelec) Chairman An- certain medical challenges.” to the hearing. They can tell the finally return the 10Mhz frequency done in May rather than March, dres Bautista after declaring him in But Escudero said records from Committee that they will not issue band at no cost to the government, Presidential Spokesman Harry contempt after failing to attend the the Bureau of Immigration, showed a waiver, they can invoke whatever after years of delay. The 3G slot Roque Jr. noted that the President Committee hearing over a possible the former poll chief left the country rights they have under the laws and will be awarded to the third telco used a lot of curse words. violation of the Anti-Money Laun- on October 28, 2017 and arrived we will respect that. But they cannot player being set up by the Duterte “The President was particu- dering Act despite a subpoena. from Singapore on November 1, do that through letters alone and administration —which has to hap- larly displeased with the fact that “I have requested the Senate to 2017. hide behind it,” Escudero said. pen by March no matter what, after in order to have a third telecoms issue a warrant for Chairman Bau- Escudero also considered “If he not afraid, he should the President rejected an industry player, we would need to find tista so he can be arrested anytime Bautista’s letter a “ruse,” insisting not hide. If he is not capable of attempt to defer the bidding by two frequencies to be allotted to the when he arrives in the country. The that there is no good faith in it. He personally attending he can talk to months. third telecom player and he was Committee is compelled to do this asked for Bautista’s subpoena to be his siblings for all of them to execute But it’s not all systems go just displeased with the fact that after his obvious defiance of the Sen- recalled and to instead answer in a waiver and we will continue the yet. Department of Information frequency given to a shell company ate orders,” said Escudero. writing. proceedings without them,” the and Communications Technology CURE which apparently was given “Unless he expunges himself, “He is a former chairman of a Senator said. (DICT) OIC-Sec. Eliseo Rio Jr. for free would have to be bought and the only way he can is if he constitutional commission; he has Lorna Kapunan, the lawyer has raised another concern: the back by government in order that issues a waiver on bank secrecy no legal and formal address here in of Patricia Bautista (the estranged refusal of the National Grid Corp. the third player could be given together with his siblings who are his the country. That is not normal,” wife of the former Comelec chief) of the Philippines (NGCP) to sign a these frequencies. The President co-depositors,” he added. stressed Escudero fears that the latter would no longer Eliseo Rio Jr. tripartite agreement on the use of (Photo: DICT website) rejected that proposal, that we pay His Committee issued a sub- He said Bautista should have return to the country amid the un- poena to Bautista last January 23, given the Committee a forwarding explained wealth allegations against dark fiber-optic cable (FOC) that for frequencies that we gave out ordering him to appear on February address where they can communi- him. will serve as the main backbone in the National Broadband Plan, for free and he warned everyone 12 before the Committee otherwise cate with him but so far he has not “If you are facing possible for the government’s National which will span a duration beyond involved not to test the resolve of he will be held in contempt and done that. plunder charges because of the Broadband Plan. NGCP operates NGCP’s contract with Transco, the President in allowing a third arrested. “That is the very opposite of evidence of impeachment pro- and maintains the country’s power DICT wants a tripartite agreement telecoms carrier to enter the coun- In a letter sent to Escudero’s what he had said in the past that ceedings… the evidence is strong transmission network hosting the with NGCP and Transco, which try,” Roque announced during his Committee, Bautista said he did not he will squarely face any and all al- enough to impeach him, and with FOC. A private company where the is OK with Transco but for some press briefing last February 6. receive any invitation because he legations lodged against him in any that evidence alone, certified by the Henry Sy group has a 40-percent reason, objected to by NGCP,” Rio It was on the same day that had been out of the country since forum,” Escudero said. justice committee of the House and stake, NGCP holds a 25-year said in the same FB post. PLDT agreed to return the CURE November 21 of last year. Bautista’s siblings, Susan Afan the plenary, that is enough to convict concession for the transmission NGCP published an open frequency at no cost to the govern- “I understand from news and Martin Bautista, were also him of plunder,” Kapunan said in an grid, which is owned by state letter on February 8 emphasizing ment, based on Rio’s February 7 reports that a subpoena has been is- invited by the Committee but both interview with reporters. entity National Transmission Corp. that it was ready to sign a bilateral post. sued because of my non-appearance failed to show up. “If you’re really claiming inno- (Transco). agreement with DICT, while at the Roque also said that Transco in the hearing. In this regard, I Afan wrote the Committee that cence, flight is not consistent with in- “DICT would want this issue same time convincing Duterte that was mentioned during the Cabinet respectfully ask that the subpoena she could not attend the hearing nocence. It is guilt that is consistent cleared not only for the National it was “willing and eager to partici- meeting. “Now there was also be recalled since I never received the because of prior commitments and with flight,” she added. Broadband Plan and the Free Wifi pate in the government’s efforts talk about using Transco and the invitation” part of his letter stated. that as a private citizen, she had Patricia has accused her former Program of the government but to develop a National Broadband President said, we will use Transco Bautista also told the Commit- no knowledge of the Anti-Money husband of amassing nearly PHP 1 more on the availability of the FOC Network, and we are willing to let because that is ours — the facilities tee that he “will be pleased to answer Laundering Law and thus begged billion in unexplained wealth and of for commercial use of the new government use these facilities at of Transco,” he told Malacañang in writing any appropriate questions to be excluded from the Committee owning 35 accounts with the Luzon telco player which is an instruction no cost.” reporters. that the Honorable Committee may hearing. Development Bank amounting to from the President. If Transco and In a press release, NGCP The National Telecommuni- have regarding the referenced topic.” If they don’t want to attend, PHP 329,220,962. NGCP can’t resolve a simple prob- blamed the delay on Transco. cations Commission, an agency Earlier, Bautista said he has they don’t want to go public, they lem of the free use by a government “Their attempts to be part of all under DICT that regulates telcos, agency for government purposes this just muddles issues from a le- is scheduled to come up with terms of its FOC, how could it tackle the gal, technical, and practical point of of reference for the third telco slot commercial use of the FOC by a tel- view. And when you’re dealing with bidding on February 19. The order co? What telco will gamble putting 20,000 circuit kilometers of cables will take effect by March 6, accord- up billions of pesos of equipment and over 200 substations scattered ing to a DICT announcement. under an agreement with NGCP, across the three main islands, we Rio has ruled out a Swiss chal- only to be dismantled or modified can’t afford to be mired in dealing lenge. “With a deadline at end of 15 years later by Transco when it with unnecessary parties,” it said. March to come up with a new ma- takes over?” Rio said in a Facebook The company has been following jor telco player, we could not wait (FB) post last February 10. up with DICT for the past nine for an unsolicited proposal and He was lamenting what he months to no avail, it added. subject it to a Swiss challenge but perceived to be a portrayal by According to Rio, NGCP’s have to force a bidding procedure,” NGCP that DICT was delaying the refusal to recognize Transco’s per- he said in reply to an FB query. signing of an agreement. petual ownership of the transmis- “To protect our investments sion network is the problem. A4 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 DEATH OF 7 OFW’S a freezer. DUTERTE SCRAPS The Philippine Air Force civilians? What about our ably presiding over one of the ... FROM PAGE A1 “I believe that the entire ... FROM PAGE A1 (PAF) gave assurance on Febru- principles?” Laverdière told world’s worst human rights overseas employment program ary 9 that the purchase of the Parliament. situations, once admitted to amendment mandating the needs to be reviewed because it senger transport and utility helicopters was a “very trans- Meanwhile, Canadian For- throwing a man out of a heli- additional protection of Filipino is more than 40 years old. Much transport.” parent” transaction. eign Minister Chrystia Freeland copter and said that he would workers. has happened in the global “Do not buy anymore from “From the very onset, the replied the Philippine govern- do it again,” Garrison added. The government had workforce since its inception,” Canada and the U.S. because contract has specified that we ment has not received any Meanwhile, Canadian For- initially suspended the process- she said. there is always a condition at- are acquiring a combat util- application for an export permit eign Minister Freeland stressed ing and issuance of overseas “The deployment ban tached,” Duterte added, refer- ity helicopter. The intended related to the deal. that she and Prime Minister employment certificates for issued by President Rodrigo ring to defense materiel. utilization is for both peacetime “I will conduct an extremely Justin Trudeau have been very workers bound for Kuwait last Duterte to Kuwait signals the “If I cannot use the gun- and during contingencies such rigorous human rights analysis clear about their position on January 19, after seven OFW need for us to re-examine the ship, the helicopter, then I as natural disasters as well as of any potential export permit the Duterte administration’s deaths were reported. social costs of labor migration might as well surrender this other emergencies,” Padilla told application related to this con- human rights violations and However, Bello clarified especially for domestic work- government to them,” Duterte Philippine Star. tract,” Freeland told the Philip- extra-judicial killings. the Department of Labor and ers. We need to strengthen our said, referring to the rebels. Padilla has reiterated that pine Star. “I have the power to deny a Employment will still have own domestic job market and “The reason I’m buying the helicopters are not armed Randall Garrison, also a permit if I feel it poses a risk to to study whether returning increase the labor participation helicopters is because I want to and are made for personnel and member of Parliament, has human rights, and I am pre- OFWs or those under the Balik of women especially those in finish them off,” Duterte added. medical transport. reiterated that the deal with the pared to do so,” Freeland said. Manggagawa program who are rural areas,” Villar said. In another report by the “It is not an offensive plat- Philippines would never be ap- PH may turn to China or currently on vacation in the Escudero underscored the Philippine Star, Canada’s form and not armed as such. proved under the human rights Russia for helicopter deal Philippines would be covered by need for the Philippine govern- International Trade Minister We have dedicated attack heli- standard by the Arms Trade In a report by Reuters, the order. ment to craft a comprehensive Francois-Philippe Champagne copters as offensive platforms Treaty, “an agreement that Defense Minister Delfin Loren- Hours before the ban, labor policy and tap countries previously said the deal formal- for such operations,” Padilla came into force in 2014 regulat- zana told reporters that the the first batch of repatriated that will protect OFWs from ly signed last Tuesday was first said. ing the sales of conventional country is, “…looking at Korea, Filipino workers, number- maltreatment, sexual abuse struck in 2012, on the under- Human rights concerns weapons.” Russia, China, Turkey and other ing 377 workers aboard three and exploitation once they are standing the helicopters would Last February 7, during “The treaty binds state countries for the medium-lift commercial flights arrived in employed. be used for search and rescue. debates at Canada’s House of parties to make sure arms sales helicopters in lieu of the Bell Manila from Kuwait. They were The government should “When we saw that dec- Commons, the country’s top do not violate existing embar- 412EPI.” welcomed by labor and foreign also address the common com- laration ... we immediately diplomat and members of Par- goes and that the weapons will According to Reuters, affairs officials. plaints of OFWs such as labor launched a review with the rel- liament have raised concerns not be used for human rights Lorenzana signed the Canadian The Department of Foreign malpractice, non-payment of evant authorities. And we will over military deals with the violations,” the Philippine Star helicopter deal last week at the Affairs (DFA) said they are overtime, poor accommodation, obviously review the facts and Philippines. reported. Singapore Air Show but Canada expected to repatriate as many discrepancies, in wages and re- take the right decision,” Cham- According to a report by the The report has also noted ordered a review after learning as 10,000 overstaying Filipinos, patriation in cases of crisis, and pagne told Philippine Star. Philippine Star, Hélène Laver- that neither Canada nor the the “aircraft would be used in under an amnesty program. other health and safety issues, According to reports, the dière, member of the Parlia- Philippines are state parties to anti-rebel operations.” As of Monday, there have Escudero said. Bell 412EPI helicopters are due ment of Canada, questioned the the treaty but “voted in favor of “I think there is malice been 2,229 workers who have “OFW cash remittances for delivery early next year, reported sale of combat helicop- it at the UN General Assembly in the way it is being raised,” been issued travel documents, boost our economy and I think even as the AFP prepared to ters to the Duterte government, vote in 2013.” Lorenzana told reporters. and 1,754 cleared by immigra- the best way to repay them is to step up operations against Is- an administration she described “(Philippines is a country “It is not an attack helicop- tion authorities, according ensure that they would be safe lamic and communist rebels. as having a “terrible human where) extra-judicial executions ter but a medium-lift, meaning to Bello, as quoted by a press and properly compensated in When asked whether he rights record.” continue to be condoned by the for transport of personnel and release from the DFA. the countries where they would was concerned the helicopters “How can the Liberal president,” Garrison has noted. supplies. We are not asking DOLE has also ordered be deployed,” Escudero said. might be used against Fili- government justify selling these “Mr. Speaker, one of the these for free but we’re buying the suspension or cancellation According to data from the pino citizens, Canadian Prime helicopters to the Philippine cruel ironies of this helicopter them. We do not have to justify of the registration of agencies Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, Minister Justin Trudeau said, army when it knows that this deal is that Philippine President how we will use these equip- that recruited OFWs who were OFW cash remittances from “Absolutely.” regime could use them against Duterte, who is unquestion- ment,” Lorenzana added. abused. January to November 2017 amounted to $25.3 billion. The ban came after Filipino AS I SEE IT For every five hearts they get best friends, be mine, hearts, Escudero also added that domestic helper Joanna Dan- ... FROM PAGE A6 correct, they earn a chocolate- you’re great, and I love you. iella Demafelis, 29, was found apart from the country’s total covered strawberry or snickers. Then, using the candy hearts, OFW deployment ban to Ku- dead in a freezer in an apart- Ralph’s Rotten Romance” by For language arts, we can have students will play bingo. The wait, the Philippine government ment in Kuwait. Her remains Jack Gantos; and “Roses are students do the same thing but first one to get three in a row should go after abusive employ- had reportedly been stored Pink, Your Feet Really Stink” by this time they have to answer a yells “Valentine’s!” and wins! ers and hold them accountable. there for a year. Authorities said James Stevenson. writing prompt. Teachers can be creative Escudero also said there marks on her body indicate she A teacher can also purchase Or, a valentine’s bingo will along this line! From the point should be bilateral talks be- was strangled to death. a bunch of plastic hearts from be a good activity too! Play a of view of an educator, Valen- tween the Philippines and visit our website Meanwhile Senators the Dollar Store/Dollar Tree fun game of Valentine Bingo tine’s Day will be a lot of fun Kuwait to seek justice for the Cynthia Villar and Chiz Escu- which he or she can use for a using candy hearts. Give each with students in the classroom! www.filamstar.com victims’ families. dero cited the need to review variety of heart-related ac- student a blank bingo board and Let’s do it in the classrooms! the country’s whole overseas tivities. For math, we can have instruct them to write the fol- (For feedbacks, com- CALL TO ADVERTISE employment program with the students choose a heart and lowing words randomly in each ments… please email the author death of a Filipina in Kuwait complete the problem inside. square: Hugs, love, wow, cutie, @ [email protected]). 1-415-593-5955 X141 and the discovery of her body in FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955

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CALL TO ADVERTISE 1-415-593-5955 X141 February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star A5 sports PBA All-Star voting begins on Friday Digos City, for the three-part Batangas, and basketball ex- news Iloilo are set to travaganza, this host this year’s time with the na- PBA All-Star tional team using Coach Kerr takes backseat in Warriors rout of Suns Week from May the midseason OAKLAND, Calif. — With Kevin Durant had 17 as Golden game, and G Tyler Ulis (back) 23 to 27. festivities as its the grind of a long NBA season State won its 12th straight in the sat for the second straight game. Voting for preparation for wearing on his team, Golden State series, its longest active streak … Phoenix has lost 12 straight in the best players the third window Warriors coach Steve Kerr believed against any team. Oakland, last winning here on Feb. to compose the of the 2019 Fiba it was time for his players to hear a Elfrid Payton scored 29 7, 2011. Luzon, Visayas, World Cup Asian new voice in the huddle: their own. points in his second game since be- Warriors: G Patrick McCaw, and Mindanao qualifiers. Kerr turned over most of the ing acquired at the trade deadline who has been spending time in All-Star teams Last year, coaching duties to his players on from Orlando, but Phoenix still the G League between NBA games will commence (Photo: www.pba.ph) the Nationals and Monday night and they responded lost its sixth straight and 11th in trying to get his confidence back, on Friday, with the Mindanao in fine fashion, playing with more the past 12 games. scored nine points in the second fan votes set to All-Stars battled focus than they had in recent ”We have to keep fighting,” quarter after having just eight in be accepted through online at pba.ph and at various to a draw before sweeping their games against the weeks in a 129-83 victory over the Payton said. ”We can’t hang our the previous 10 games. He then playing venues. Luzon and Visayas All-Stars in their preparation for Phoenix Suns. heads. That’s the great thing about left the game with a sprained right The polls will briefly take a break after the 2018 the 2017 SEABA Championship. ”It’s the players’ team,” Kerr Philippine Cup semifinals before resuming after the Side events like the Slam Dunk Contest, Three- said. ”It’s their team and they have Finals through the first week of the elimination round Point Shootout, and the Obstacle Challenge will also to take ownership of it. As coaches, of the 2018 Commissioner’s Cup. be held for this season’s edition of the All-Star Week. our job is to nudge them in the Gilas Pilipinas will once again be the main fixture (Randolph B. Leongson / inquirer.net) right direction, guide them. We don’t control them. They deter- mine their own fate. I don’t think Ceres hits AFC Cup milestone in drubbing of Boeung Ket we’ve focused well the last month. It just seemed like the right thing BACOLOD CITY – Ceres converting from the spot following Qarshi of Uzbekistan beat Dempo to do.” Negros FC launched its AFC Cup a clip on Mike Ott inside the area. of India via the same scoreline in Kerr said he told the players campaign in style, drubbing an It was 5-0 in the 31st minute 2011. (Cedelf P. Tupas / inquirer. of his plan after the previous game overmatched Boeung Ket side, 9-0, with Maranon setting up Porteria, net) and they ran the show for most of last Tuesday night for its most lop- who rifled home a well-placed the day. Andre Iguodala took over sided victory yet in the continental at morning shootaround, JaVale competition at Panaad Stadium. McGee ran the computer for the Not even a downpour caused film session and Iguodala, Dray- by Tropical Storm Basyang can mond Green and David West got stop the Busmen from delivering a most of the work designing plays spectacular performance in front and running the huddle during of their home fans as they rolled timeouts. Draymond Green of the Warriors draws out a play for his teammates past the Cambodian champions. Kerr and his assistants (Photo: www.usatoday.com) A brace each from Takumi handled the substitutions before Uesato, Bienve Maranon and OJ allowing the players to take over the NBA, there’s another game in wrist. Porteria and a goal apiece from from there. two days. So learn from it, get bet- QUOTABLE captain Carlie De Murga and ”It had to do with me trying ter ready to have a better effort.” ”I was horrible actually. I substitute Manny Ott propelled the to reach my team and I have not Payton scored 16 points in thought about a play and forgot Busmen to a record-setting night. reached them the last month,” the first quarter before Curry got the second option and had two An own goal from Boeung Ket Kerr said. ”They’re tired of my on the scoreboard, but he got little guys on the wrong place on the defender Sun Sovanrithy in the voice. I’m tired of my voice. I help. Payton made his first seven board and I actually got a delay second half inflicted more misery wasn’t reaching them so we figured shots, but his teammates started 1 of game coming out of halftime on the Cambodians, who missed this was a good night to pull some- for 15 and the Warriors managed because I was scrambling,” Curry two key players due to visa issues. thing out of the hat.” to take a 25-24 lead by the end of said about his role as a coach. So dominating were the Bus- After the game, Kerr made the first after being outscored by FATHER-SON (Photo: www.foxsportsasia.com) men that coach Risto Vidakovic a point of seeking out Phoenix 32 points in the first quarter of the Curry’s 22 points gave him replaced the excellent Stephan interim coach Jay Triano to tell previous three games. and his father, Dell, a combined Schrock just before halftime with strike from just inside the box. him the move wasn’t made out of Curry scored 10 points in the 28,883 points in their careers, the outcome already in the bag. De Murga joined the scoring any disrespect for the Suns, who second quarter as Golden State tying Rick and Brent Barry for the Uesato set the tone for a four minutes after the hour mark, became the first team to reach 40 built a 17-point lead at the half and third-most ever by a father-son magical night with a close range heading home a beautiful cross VISIT losses this season. coasted the rest of the way. combination, according to the strike in the 15th minute, before from Manny Ott, who also got on WWW.FILAMSTAR.COM ”You have to do what you ”We have so many smart Elias Sports Bureau. Joe and Kobe Maranon doubled the lead four the scoresheet nine minutes from have to do to build your own team basketball minds on our team,” Bryant have the most of any duo minutes later. time with a deflected strike. up,” Triano said. ”If he thinks that Casspi said. ”The guys really used with 38,895 (33,643 from Kobe). The Japanese striker grabbed Porteria knocked in his helps them, I tip my hat.” this opportunity to run things they UP NEXT a second in the 22nd minute by second goal from close range with CALL US TO ADVERTISE Stephen Curry scored 22 like.” Suns: Visit Utah on Wednes- latching unto Jeff Christiaens’ five minutes remaining as Ceres points for the Warriors. Omri TIP-INS day. pass to the far post and Maranon matched the biggest win in the 415-278-0692 Casspi added 19 in a rare start in Suns: G Devin Booker (hip Warriors: Visit Portland on added a fourth after 28 minutes by history of the tournament. Nasaf place of the injured Green and pointer) missed his fourth straight Wednesday. (inquirer.net) A6 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018

opinion A violation of the Constitution. Like the anti-FBI memo of the Republicans, Street Talk turning the tables on Carangdang is said to be a squid tactic to cover the more serious issue of PerryScope unexplained wealth hovering over a president Squid tactics who claims to be incorruptible (“I hate corrup- Koreans’ quest for reconciliation tion. P—ina!”). GREG B. MACABENTA In the US case, one would have expected Two parallel issues right-thinking representatives of the American PERRY DIAZ is indicative of generational loyalty; that is, younger generations of South Koreans identify themselves (call them controver- people to vent their ire on Russia and on Carter In a gesture of distinctly different from North Koreans. To them, sies or scandals – your Page (after all, Russia is supposed to be an adver- friendship, South Korean the concept of “One Korea” and “shared national- choice) involving the sary of America) – but no, the Republicans have President Moon Jae-in ism” is fading away. As one South Korean think occupants of the White cast Page and, by implication, Trump, as “victims” hosted a luncheon for tank researcher said, “The more and more we move House and Malacanang of FBI misconduct, rather than as possible Rus- Kim Yo-jong, sister of to younger generations, the idea that we are one have been hogging the sian bogey men. The FBI, the Justice Department, North Korean Leader Kim people is disappearing.” A recent survey by RealMe- headlines of late. In both the US intelligence community and, by implica- Jong-un after the opening ter showed that only four out of 10 South Koreans cases, squid tactics are tion, Special Counsel Mueller have been cast as ceremony of the Winter favored the idea of the two Koreas flying the Unifica- apparently being used to the villains. Olympics in Pyeongchang, tion Flag at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics. By muddle public perception of culprit and victim, To rub in the point about the “villainy” of the South Korea. It was the contrast, a similar poll conducted in 2002 showed accuser and accused, right and wrong. In both FBI, the memo, crafted by Republican Rep. Devin 76% of South Koreans approved of flying the Reunifi- most significant diplomatic encounter between the cases raw political power is being wielded. Nunes, glosses over the fact that the dossier only two Koreas in many years. cation Flag during the 2002 Asian Games in Busan, On the US side, there is the recent decision served as part of the basis for suspecting Page and Their meeting was preceded by another event, South Korea. that other independent and verifiable intelligence While South Korean “nationalism” may be of President Donald Trump and the Republicans when dignitaries from around the world assembled information had raised red flags on Page. The at the Olympic Stadium’s VIP box. In the box sat a major factor in blocking any attempt to reunify to release a memo that tends to cast a bad light Republicans also appear to be completely ignor- twelve world leaders and their spouses, who included the two Koreas, “family reunification” has a strong on the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the US ing the many contacts with the Russians made by U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, Japanese Prime emotional pull in bringing the two Koreas under one counter-intelligence agencies, the Department of Minister Shinzo Abe, North Korea’s nominal head government in an open society. It’s hard to imagine Justice and Special Counsel Robert Mueller. Trump associates, including Donald Trump, Jr. of state, Kim Yong Nam, and Kim Yo-jong, Kim how this could be achieved with North Korea ruled The memo is in connection with the surveil- (who met with Russian agents who had promised Jong-un’s sister. The presence of Ms. Kim signals a by an authoritarian government in a communist lance by the FBI of Trump campaign associate, “dirt” on Hillary Clinton). thawing of tensions between the two Koreas. society, while South Korea, by contrast, is governed Carter Page, in the course of its investigation of Worst of all, the Republicans appear to be Interestingly, Pence who was seated on the front democratically in a capitalistic free market economy. Russia’s interference in the last US presidential completely overlooking Russia’s meddling in the row with his wife Karen to his right, was just a few South Korea is one of the richest countries in the elections, the possibility of collusion with the US elections and possible treasonous acts com- feet away from Kim Yo-jong who was seated on the world, while North Korea is a pauper state. Trump campaign, well as the possibility of ob- mitted by certain US citizens. This inexplicable second row right behind Mrs. Pence, an arm’s length Unifying the two Koreas struction of justice by Trump himself. stance of the GOP has been summed up by mav- away from Pence. It was reported in the news that Politics aside, it would be ideal to unify the The Republicans, who dominate both Capitol erick Republican Senator John McCain as “doing Pence seemed to have made no effort to acknowledge two Koreas under the South Korean model simply Hill and the White House, have accused the FBI (Vladimir) Putin’s job.” her. It’s interesting to note that by not acknowledg- because the union would have a better chance of of abuses in its handling of the investigation, thus In a prepared statement, McCain said, “In thriving. It would bring progress to the lives of 25.6 ing her presence, it is considered a “snub” – an insult putting the premier law enforcement agency of 2016, the Russians engaged in an elaborate plot to in Asian cultures. It certainly would have earned million North Korean. If unification is to be done America under a cloud and, in effect, providing interfere in an American election and undermine Pence – and by extension, the United States – some under a North Korean government, what do you our democracy. While we have no evidence these think would happen to the lives of the 51.1 million relief for heretofore culprit, Page and possible respect had he simply nodded to acknowledge her efforts affected the outcome of our election, I fear presence. It was a diplomatic faux pas, which Pence South Koreans who would be forcibly integrated into major culprit, Trump. they succeeded in fueling discord and dividing us could have avoided with a smile. But as it turned a repressive communist society? The FBI’s alleged misconduct in its surveil- out, he coldly ignored her and watched the entire But the problem with unifying the two Koreas lance of Carter Page has been characterized by from one another. show with a stiff neck. under a South Korean government is that China Republican spin specialists as “worse than Wa- “The latest attacks on the FBI and Justice Missed opportunity would most likely object to such union. There is just tergate.” The focus of their spin is the allegation serve no American interests — no party’s, no What could have been a great opportunity to no way that China would agree to letting go of North that the FBI partly based its suspicion of Page’s president’s, only Putin. The American people start a new chapter in U.S.-North Korea relations, Korea, which has served as a buffer zone to China’s Russian links on a dossier prepared by a for- must know all the facts surrounding Russia’s on- Pence’s seemingly arrogant stance had doused any eastern flank. And with nuclear-tipped ballistic mis- mer British intelligence operative funded by the going efforts to subvert our democracy, which is prospect to jump start bilateral talks between the siles that North Korea could use to threaten South Democrats and the Hillary Clinton campaign. why special counsel Mueller’s investigation must two countries… or even better, a trilateral negotia- Korea, Japan, and America’s western periphery, the Democrats have accused the Republicans continue unimpeded.” tion including South Korea. It could also open U.S. nuclear defense umbrella is weakened. of besmirching the reputation of the FBI and McCain accused Trump of creating “partisan the door for the inclusion of China in future talks, But China’s objection to a unified Korea under the Justice Department ahead of any findings by side shows” to distract from the investigation particularly the denuclearization of the Korean pen- a South Korean government is not the only problem. Mueller that may be adverse to Trump. In other — adding that the partisan attacks on American insula. But to convince North Korea to abandon her Although the U.S. must appear to favor “One Korea” words, they are cushioning the possible impact institutions means, in effect, that “we are doing under a South Korean government, the U.S. could be nuclear program would be an exercise in futility. It on Trump of the Mueller investigation, and also Putin’s job for him.” would be like telling a little boy to throw his marbles taking a political risk because once a unified Korea providing a justification for firing Mueller and the The motives of both the Republicans and away. No way! is achieved under a South Korean government, there Deputy Attorney General, Rod Rosenstein, who the Duterte camp appear too obvious and too But as North Korea grows up and matures into is no assurance that South Korea’s defense alliance brazen (there is a Tagalog term for it, “garapal”) a more responsible society, the notion of peaceful with the U.S. would survive in its current form. In- has direct supervision of the Special Counsel. for them to expect the citizenry to believe them. coexistence between the two Koreas gains viability. deed, with the elimination of a North Korean nuclear Talk about turning the accuser-culprit-victim But first, the two Koreas must end the state of war threat and massive troop invasion, the U.S.-South paradigm upside down, this is one is a classic. But Unfortunately, their respective battalions of loyal that they’re in since the Korean Armistice was signed Korea defense alliance would no longer be as needed wait, in the Philippines there also appears to be supporters are standing by them. in 1953. as it is today, which means that South Korea would a parallel case of making the accuser the accused Trump’s spin specialists have proven them- Korean Reunification eventually ask the 28,500 American troops to leave. and portraying as victims the alleged wrongdoers. selves expert at portraying an apple as a banana But a final peace agreement has yet to be And in the case of China, there would no longer be a President Rodrigo Duterte has ordered (to cite a CNN TV spot on the need to purvey achieved, not with the current political situation. need to be adversarial. China had always been trying the suspension of Overall Deputy Ombudsman truth in journalism). And Trump himself has lied And for it to evolve into a détente between the two to maintain friendly bilateral relations with South Arthur Carangdang, who has been tasked with so often and so habitually that his supporters and Koreas, they must demonstrate that they’re willing Korea and if North Korea doesn’t exist anymore, looking into allegations of billions in unexplained the Republicans no longer see anything wrong to sit down and discuss the issues that have driven there is no reason why they can’t be friends. After wealth of Duterte and members of his family. with it. In the process they seem to be discarding a wedge between them. The Pyeongchang Winter all, China is South Korea’s biggest trading partner. Duterte’s order is said to be in utter disregard loyalty to country in favor of party loyalty. Olympics would have offered that opportunity. For Indeed, China would immensely benefit -- politically, of a Supreme Court position on the issue and in Duterte and his information machinery have the first time in 65 years, the two nations joined economically, and militarily --from a unified Korea the face of resistance by Ombudsman Conchita also been conducting a vigorous media and social Kim Jong-un’s invitation together in an Olympics parade as One Korea. Carpio-Morales. media campaign to justify Carangdang’s suspen- And proudly beaming with a smile, South Korean During the luncheon hosted by Moon, Kim Like the Special Counsel in the US, the office sion, as well as the possible impeachment of President Moon seemed to be enjoying playing host. Yo-jong extended a formal invitation to Moon to of the Ombudsman is supposed to be beyond the Ombudsman Carpio-Morales, if she continues to Surely, he is looking at the Winter Olympics as an visit North Korea. Moon responded by suggesting be defiant. opportunity to re-establish bilateral talks with North the two countries “should accomplish this by creat- clutches of partisan politics. Of course what is happening in the Philip- Korea. ing the right conditions,” adding that talks between Carangdang’s sin? He reportedly leaked to Although it’s too soon to talk about reunifica- North Korea and the United States were also needed, media bank documents obtained from the Anti- pines is not unusual. Our people are resigned to tion without inciting protests from South Korean and requested that “North Korea be more active Money Laundering Council that may confirm ear- the fact that President Manuel Quezon’s noble conservatives -- who have been critical of the use of in talking with the US.” That was a smart move lier accusations of Duterte’s unexplained wealth assertion, “My loyalty to my party ends where my the Unification Flag – the timing for such an over- by Moon. Clearly, Moon still needs the protective made by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV. According loyalty to my country begins,” is absolutely mean- ture fits perfectly well. The conservatives claimed nuclear umbrella of Uncle Sam. to Duterte, Carangdang secured the documents ingless in Philippine politics. that the Reunification Flag has undermined South If Kim agrees to Moon’s suggestion to bring the without the knowledge of the AMLC. Of course, What resonate are the immortal words of Korea’s “big moment” as host to the Olympics. U.S. to the negotiating table, then it would open the Duterte denies the allegations and questions the Senate President Jose Avelino, “What are we in Generational loyalty door to a peaceful resolution of the Korean people’s authenticity of Carangdang’s purported findings. power for?” Aptly translated into Erap-speak: Incidentally, the conservatives used to be quest for reconciliation and reunification. Duterte and his allies have characterized Car- “Weather weather lang iyan!” avowedly pro-reunification. However, over the ([email protected]) angdang’s violation as deserving his suspension ([email protected]) years, their numbers dwindled, which paradoxically even if that act also constitutes another violation.

game Hot Potato with our students using heart As I See It cut-outs. To prepare for the game, cut out a class supply our paper hearts in all different colors The Opinions expressed by our writers and Valentine’s Day from a Teacher’s point of view and begin the game by randomly giving students contributors do not in any way reflect the hearts, then starting the music. Students must opinion of the management of Fortune News ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO pass their heart to the person on their right until Media Inc. the music stops and once the music stops, the Fortune News Media Inc. Valentine’s Day is While this day is celebrated by lovers, I think teacher calls a color. If a student has that color Publisher a day for lovers! It is a we can also celebrate it in the classrooms. Ac- they must spell one of their spelling words cor- Harvey Barkin romantic holiday for the cording to author Janelle Cox, Valentine’s Day is rectly. If they do not, then they are out. If they Editor-in-Chief feast of Saint Valentine a wonderful time to celebrate love, friendship and spell it correctly they can continue to play. We can kindness with our students. Students can engage also use math facts, vocabulary words, or what- Edwina Aniag which is celebrated on Vice President for Marketing and Operations February 14. It originat- in Valentine-related classroom activities that will ever other concept students need to review. ed as a Western Chris- put our students’ hearts and creativity to work. If some schools are unable to celebrate Gary De Guzman tian feast day honoring How do we do it? Well, we can start with a Valentine’s Day for religious reasons, they can Vice President for Community Relations one or two early saints note of kindness. Valentine’s Day is about being have a friendship celebration instead. On this day, Anchet Manosca named Valentine. Valentine’s Day is recognized as kind to one another. From a jar, have students students may wear red and pink, write friend- Creative and Production Manager a significant cultural, religious, and commercial pick their classmates’ names and write a brief ship letters to one another and make friendship Atty. Crispin Lozano celebration of romance in many places around the note of kindness telling them all of the things that bracelets or name tags. Students can send a mes- Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis world, although it is not a public holiday in any they like about that student. Then, we can either sage from anyone of their choosing. To begin, give Ben Lou / Perry Diaz country. post the notes on our bulletin board, or create a each student two paper hearts, one red and one Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko Martyrdom stories which included a written kindness tree using clothes pins to clip each kind pink. The red one should be a little bit bigger than Columnists account of Saint Valentine of Rome’s imprison- note to the tree. the pink one, so the students can paste the pink Macon Ramos-Araneta ment for performing weddings for soldiers who We can also be creative in expressing our one on top of it. Once students glue their hearts Corina Oliquino / Lara Climaco Daniel Llanto were forbidden to marry, and for ministering to love to anyone. Let students get creative by mak- together, instruct them to surf the net and choose Correspondents Christians persecuted under the Roman Empire, ing their own Valentine’s Day boxes to hold all of words and/or pictures that describe the recipient have been handed down from generations to their special notes and cards from their class- of the heart. They should glue the words, phrases, Ann Gauna Marketing Associate generations in the ancient times. mates. Instruct students to take an empty cereal and pictures to the heart so it looks like a collage. Valentine’s Day symbols that are used today box as an at-home project, and choose a theme Add a fancy bow or ribbon and you have yourself Jho Bule include the heart-shaped outline, doves, and the that represents them to decorate. On Valentine’s a personalized valentine for everyone. Photographer figure of the winged Cupid. Handwritten valen- Day, students bring in their boxes and before One good idea advanced by Cox, is putting Glenda Bule tines paved the way to mass-produced greeting handing out their valentines, they present their up learning centers. Learning centers are always Event Coordinator cards since the 19th century. boxes to the class to get judged. The winner with a fun time for students. This Valentine’s Day have Saint Valentine’s Day is an official feast day the most creative box receives a get-out-of home- students move through a variety of centers where FilAm Star is published weekly work free pass for the day. they can create a heart valentine, play Valentine by Fortune News Media Inc. in the Anglican Communion and the Lutheran www.filamstar.com Church. Many parts of the Eastern Orthodox As a school activity, we can organize a Val- bingo or lotto, play a game where they must pick Church also celebrate Saint Valentine’s Day, al- entine’s Day door decorating contest. Each class up candy hearts with chop sticks, and of course,

Headquarters: though the former celebrates it on July 6 in honor comes up with a theme and together decorates eat some fun Valentine’s Day treats. 1028 Mission St., 2/F, of the Roman presbyter Saint Valentine and the their classroom door and the classroom that wins Reading heart-warming stories will be a good San Francisco, CA 94103; latter celebrates it on July 30 in honor of Hierola- receives a Valentine’s Day cake or pizza party for activity too! Some of those favorites are “Arthur’s Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 try Valentine, the Bishop of Interregna (modern their class. Great Big Valentine” by Lillian Hoban; “Rotten Email: [email protected] Terni). Cox suggested we can play a variation of the TO PAGE A4 February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star A7 opinion company and love in sheer disregard of Church’s Dual Voice teachings. Sans procreation and whenever they desire raising children, they adopt chosen after all. In what manner, man can never foretell. offsprings and provide better future for infants Potpourri: Joining the diverse walkers for Walk for Life or Death? born out uncertainty or illegitimacy. Exponents life in San Francisco was a strong delegation by FEDERICO A. ESPIRITU promote abortion believing that some rights to pro-family community Couples for Christ (CFC). live rise above another person’s right to continue Streamers made prominent the presence of their Amid chilly breeze, world since was populated with both good and breathing. In essence, the woman adheres to the various ministries while other members, specially the streets of San disobedient children of God that their merciful legal entitlement to elective abortion or termi- its Servants of the Lord (SOLD) ministry chose Francisco were stomped Creator purged the world of evil with the Great nate her unwanted pregnancy. Proponents have to confine themselves to preparations for a Bible by footprints of advo- Deluge saving only Noah, his family and pairs of gained crucial inroads in the halls of legisla- Timeline Study that will formally commence this cates of contradictory both male and female clean and unclean animals tion, governance and to certain extent bars of coming February 24 running for eight Saturdays conflagrant issue that through an ark of salvation the Lord commanded opinion in many states and nations, not even until April 28 from 12 pm-5 pm at the modular perennially divided Noah to build. Throughout man’s history, sin sparing street democracy every time any Walk area of the St. Anthony Church at 971 O’Hara their burgeoning ranks and wickedness galloped in variant, diverse and for Life transpires elsewhere. Diehards pulsated Avenue, Oakley 94531. SOLD undertook by itself on whether to walk for cyclical commission cleansed in redemption and an affirmed cause by incessant chanting of “San last year the basic 8-part Great Adventure way of life or death last January 27. forgiveness by the passion of Christ’ dying on the Francisco for choice” as the Pro-Life marchers understanding the mystery of the Bible created The annual konfrontasi always drew fer- cross for the salvation of mankind pursuant to the sheepishly sights and hearken the anti-thesis of by Ascension Press’ Jeff Cavins focusing mainly vent frontline defenders by the thousands and sovereign will of his Holy Father. The expiated their protagonists in respect of peace. Only lines on fourteen narrative books to present cohe- speeches of fervor that occasionally crested remnants of the faithful in contemporary era now of vigilant uniformed and detective elements sively in clarion recall God’s Plan for Salvation. beyond emotions or battle of posters and stream- uphold respecting the human life in the womb, of the San Francisco Police Department along For this year, SOLD brethren, as supported by ers short of utter physical engagements as hotter rejecting humanitarian euthanasia and clement the demonstration route divided the plethora of CFC, are slated to conduct four Great Adventure heads control temperament. coup d grace in obeisance always firm in faith street activists that swelled to conservative esti- Bible parish-based studies starting with the more Pro-Life crusaders are always supported by that only the Almighty Lord can take away life in mate of sixty thousand. comprehensive 24-part Bible Timeline Facilita- the Church for being consistent with scriptural consonance with the scriptures. To them, all life The contravening issues and display of op- tors’ Training to be conducted by SOLD Brother and canonical teachings. Thronged followers of is equal and has right to exist. posite actions triggered by synthesized brainwork and Tenured Professor Tony Villegas Jr.. Lim- Jesus Christ concur with the Holy Bible’s Book Pro-Choice champions, on the other hand, and free will would continue to rampage in future ited participants slots are still available even for of Genesis that God created Man and Woman to- believe that man and woman is the source of years. Society shall persistently be confronted non-CFCs and nearby parishioners. Pls contact gether to stay beautiful, become one flesh, fruitful their own moral authority and posses that right with differing tolerance and acquiescence on both me through Dual Voice or Facebook Messenger to and multiply. And the first couple, Adam and Eve to choose life or death, marriage genre or mores advocacy. Mortal humans will always debate and register. who were married in divinity, fulfilled the pro- and abide by laws of man that adapt to changing decide on their best recourse on the concomitant (You may correspond with Dual Voice thru creation command even if they had fallen out of patterns of human life and existence. When per- instant issues. The final judgment will emerge [email protected].) sin and sent away from the Garden of Eden. The sons of same sex fall in love, they will enjoy life of however from the eternal divinity who created life

PH EYEING CHINA AND RUSSIA said that there are 300,000 jobs for OFWs in DUTERTE TELLS EX-NPA the event with the theme “Rise against fascism, China. ... FROM PAGE A1 ... FROM PAGE A1 Resist tyranny, Unite for justice and peace.” According to Bello, a third of the available Women from various sectors will give Du- jobs are for English teachers, who are needed as ment pero ngayon ipagpapatuloy na namin ang soldiers, there’s a new order coming from the terte a grand condemnation in a huge protest China’s economy grows. pag-pirma,” Bello said. mayor. We won’t kill you. We will just shoot your against his regime’s tyrannical and anti-poor “There is a big demand for English teach- In another report by the Philippine Star, vagina,” the President said, eliciting laughter policies in Mendiola on the commemoration of ers in China, kasi gusto yata ng mga Chinese na President Duterte has previously asked China from the crowd. the International Women’s Day. matutong mag-Ingles ‘yung mga anak nila,” he to “open its doors” for Filipino migrant workers The President added, “If there is no vagina, Earlier, Carlos Conde, a researcher for Hu- said. by saying that Beijing is in need of teachers and (women) would be useless.” He was also reported man Rights Watch (HRW) described it “the latest Bello said the offered jobs could pay up to domestic helpers. to be repeatedly mentioning the Visayan word in a series of misogynist, derogatory and de- PHP 60,000 or $1,200 a month. In a press conference regarding the matter on “bisong” which means vagina. meaning statements he has made about women.” Bello noted that China’s Labor Ministry also Friday, President Duterte said the suspension of He also chastised female fighters for aban- “It encourages state forces to commit sexual seeks musicians, nurses, cooks, household service deployment of OFWs to Kuwait “continues today doning their children and families, in order to violence during armed conflict, which is a viola- workers, and caregivers. and I don’t know up to what time.” join the communist movement. tion of international humanitarian law,” the According to the report, the Labor Depart- It comes after a dead Filipina migrant worker “Why would you women join? Some of you statement added. ment is advising recruitment agencies to include was found in a freezer at an abandoned apart- have joined the movement even if you have Duterte has been under fire several times for ment in the Gulf state, where over two million the culture and norms of China in the training of families. You can’t even return to your families making misogynistic comments. Filipinos, most of them domestic workers, were workers, as well as the assessment of employers for how many years, Christmas, New Year, your Often when challenged for making outra- employed. in China. child’s birthday, your birthday. You don’t even geous remarks, the President insisted he was just The report has also cited Human Rights Meanwhile, in another interview on Sun- show up. You gave birth to your children then joking. Watch’s (HRW) caution to the Philippine govern- day for the ABS-CBN News Channel, Bello said you left them behind,” said Duterte. While campaigning for the presidency for ment about its OFW deployment ban in Kuwait. the government is in the “process of looking for “We have pills for free. Why would you give the last May 2016 elections, Duterte joked about HRW said such policy would “force Filipino alternative markets and one of them is China and birth six times, seven times, and you’re (with the) wanting to be first in line to rape a kidnapped workers to take greater risks to seek overseas even, Russia.” NPA? Then, you go to war, you leave your fam- Australian missionary at a prison riot in 1989. employment.” Bello has also assured returning OFWs from ily behind. I feel pity for the person,” also said He said the victim was “beautiful” and as “They should advocate for an end to the abu- Kuwait will have employment here under the Duterte. mayor of Davao City, where the riot took place, sive kafala (visa sponsorship) system which ties government’s reintegration program. The Gabriela Women’s Party (GWP) lam- he should have been first in line. He later apolo- migrant workers to their employers and prohibits “Bibigyan sila ng livelihood. Kung may naghi- basted Duterte’s latest anti-women remark in gized and said he did not intend to disrespect them from leaving or changing jobs without their hintay ng trabaho dito, we’re looking for teachers, a February 7 Palace event wherein he ordered women. employer’s permission,” HRW said in its report, we’re looking for skilled workers,” Bello said. government troops to shoot female NPAs in the In July 2017, he also made rape jokes while reiterating that the Philippines should instead “With the forthcoming infrastructure project vagina. talking about Miss Universe. demand stronger protections for OFWs. of the president, we are talking of more than two In May, also last year, Duterte told soldiers 300,000 jobs in China for OFWs million jobs a year, starting this year, until the “Duterte’s latest nasty remark openly en- fighting Muslim armed fighters in the beseiged In another report by CNN Philippines, Bello end of his term,” Bello added. courages violence against women, contributes to the impunity on such, and further confirms him- southern city of Marawi that they could rape up self as the most dangerous macho-fascist in the to three women without getting punished. GOV’T TO SEEK FOREIGN (DITF) formed by the DoH. DITF, composed of government right now. He has further presented “I’ll imprison you myself,” he said, referring ... FROM PAGE A1 a multi-disciplinary team of 10 doctors from the himself as the epitome of misogyny and fascism to soldiers who commit violations. Then he said: Philippine General Hospital, released prelimi- terribly rolled in one,” noted Gabriela Rep. Emmi “If you had raped three, I will admit it, that’s on sa Dengvaxia vaccine. Iyan po ang napagkasun- nary findings on February 2 that three of the 14 de Jesus. me.” duan sa pagpupulong kahapon,” Presidential deaths were due to dengue shock syndrome while “He is dangerously pushing the fascist During his visit to India last January, the Spokesman Harry Roque Jr. said at a press brief- six were either “indeterminate” or “coincidental” Armed Forced of the Philippines (AFP) to com- President told a group of Indian and Filipino deaths. Further testing of tissue samples and ing last February 9. mit more bloody human rights violations and business leaders in New Delhi that he would like antibodies is needed to establish if Dengvaxia Duterte is looking into the mess after a group grave abuses of international humanitarian law, to attract visitors to the Philippines by offering caused the deaths, it said. The panel is due to of doctors appealed to the DoJ to stop PAO from and takes state terrorism against women and the 42 virgins. evaluate 15 other deaths among those vaccinated conducting further autopsies. The group, called people to a whole new level,” she added. The Duterte administration has been en- with Dengvaxia monitored by the DoH’s epidemi- Doctors for Public Welfare and led by former The lawmaker said such statement should gaged in an on and off peace negotiations with ology bureau. Health Sec. Esperanza Cabral, questioned the cre- never go uncontested at a time when the military the communist rebels in the Philippines, since he During his press briefing, Roque also re- dentials of PAO’s forensic expert, Dr. Erwin Erfe, is escalating its war offensives and red-tagging came into office in mid-2016. vealed that Duterte affirmed the government’s who they believe inflamed the public health scare across the country on supposed enemies of the In the same speech, he took potshots at Jose all-out support to those vaccinated with Dengvax- with on-the-spot renditions of autopsy findings government. Maria Sison, the founding chairman of the Com- ia, for whom public hospitals have designated a during media interviews. De Jesus also countered presidential spokes- munist Party of the Philippines-NPA, for wanting special lane to expedite free medical services. At While the DoJ and Malacañang flatly rejected person Harry Roque’s statement that “feminists to establish his own government. the same time, Roque said the President will pur- the doctors’ plea, Aguirre acknowledged that Erfe are sometimes (over-acting),” saying that speak- “Now, who is Sison? Who am I? I’m your sue those responsible for the Dengvaxia fiasco. is not qualified to render an expert opinion on the ing up for women’s rights will never be too much President talking to you right now, promising Last February 12, a criminal complaint was autopsies. “I think we are agreed na si Dr. Erfe is under a regime that brazenly degrades and you that I will do this. I planned to do this,” said only a medico-legal officer so ang kanyang opin- filed against more than 20 individuals led by for- disrespects women. Duterte. ion, if he made an opinion on the deaths from mer President Benigno Aquino III, former Budget “Duterte and his minions are providing “Sison is also dreaming of his own govern- Dengvaxia, did not come from an expert opinion,” Sec. Florencio Abad and former Health Sec. various reasons for women to rise in protest on ment. He wants free education. He wants every- Aguirre was quoted by state-owned Philippine Janette Garin. Other former DoH officials and February 14 for the One Billion Rising event and thing for free including the beds. When the time News Agency recently. executives of Sanofi Pasteur and Zuellig Pharma, on the International Women’s Day on March 8,” comes, there will be no taxation. You would have Health Sec. Francisco Duque III had also tes- Sanofi’s distributor in the Philippines, were she said. to pay taxes to the communists before you are tified at the House of Representatives last Febru- included in the complaint filed with the DoJ. The “They should expect more women to speak permitted to have a baby,” also said Duterte. ary 12 that Erfe’s credentials were being vali- Volunteers Against Crime and Corruption (VACC) up and reject this style of macho-fascist leader- “Son of a b****. They are so arrogant. He dated. At last Tuesday’s Senate hearing, medical led the complainants. Dante Jimenez, VACC chair ship. We cannot just take these vile remarks wants to take my place. There’s no doubt about experts also confirmed that tissue analyses on the and recently appointed by Duterte as chairman sitting down,” she further stated. it because he’s a Filipino too. I don’t know if he’s deaths associated with Dengvaxia have to be done of the Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission, De Jesus said thousands of women clad really a Filipino. He looks like a Taiwanese,” fur- abroad due to a lack of local capability, according was in last week’s DOJ briefing to the President in pink and purple are expected to mass up in ther said Duterte as he derided Sison for wanting to a press release issued by Sen. Richard Gordon along with Aguirre and the head of PAO, Persida Manila on March 8 to stage the #1BillionRising to be president. following the hearing. Acosta. PAO had earlier filed the first civil suit dance, a global movement against all forms of The CPP-NPA launched a rebellion in 1968 The conduct of a tissue analysis on at least before the Quezon City Regional Trial Court on that has so far claimed the lives of more than nine of the 14 associated deaths was recom- behalf of the family of a 10-year-old girl. Acosta violence against women. 30,000 people. mended by the Dengue Investigative Task Force said more cases were to follow. This year, Philippine organizers are holding

DUTERTE BELITTLES f******g provision on extra-judicial killing. It is humanity. Duterte said he is willing to face Bensouda ... FROM PAGE A1 not found anywhere,” Duterte told Davao City- In a press briefing, Duterte claimed he had one-on-one when she visits the Philippines. “And based Mindanews. prior knowledge of the ICC initiative as early as I hope that we can be together in a room. I would Bensouda served notice that the Court will “open Last April 24, 2017, lawyer Jude Sabio filed February 6, based on the transcript of a phone ask for that privilege of talking, the two of us in a a preliminary examination” into EJK allegations a complaint before the ICC alleging that Duterte conversation between Lewis and an unnamed room, and if you want to find me guilty, go ahead. in the Philippines following a “careful, indepen- “repeatedly, unchangingly and continuously” individual. So be it,” he said. dent and impartial review of a number of com- committed crimes against humanity. The case “We waited for it last Tuesday, but there was “Criminal law says you cannot escape liability munications and reports documenting alleged was based on the Senate testimony of self-con- nothing. I know everything, tell her that I know. by just pretending to be ignorant so in order not crimes potentially falling within the jurisdiction fessed former Davao death squad member Edgar It’s Loida. I have the complete transcript,” Du- to be ignorant, we have to publish our penal laws, of the International Criminal Court.” Matobato. Sabio, in his complaint, also alleged terte said. He said he had foreign friends in high especially with punitive sanctions,” he said. Bensouda said the preliminary examination that the President was responsible for the deaths places to thank for the release of the transcript of Asked if he would withdraw the country from will analyze crimes allegedly committed since of 7,000 people in the ruthless war on drugs. the supposed phone conversation. the ICC, Duterte replied, “I do not want to appear July 1, 2016, Day One of the Duterte administra- Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV and Magdalo party- “I was already listening to the tapes of their na I’m trying to avoid liability. I just said that if tion, “in the context of the ‘war on drugs’ cam- list Rep. Gary Alejano later filed a supplemental conversation. It was provided to me by another that is their style, there are so many mass rapes. paign launched by the Government of the Philip- complaint supporting Sabio’s accusations. country but the conversation was in the Philip- Why me? Criminals are the ones killed here. But pines.” But Duterte believes this was all part of pines and New York,” the President said. my policemen and soldiers were killed, too.” Instead of trash-talking the ICC as he is wont efforts to de-stabilize his administration. He “Loida (Lewis) was one of them. And there Duterte and his allies are questioning the to do, Duterte said that he would want to know accused prominent Filipino-American business- was this, ‘See you in the headquarters when the jurisdiction of the ICC over the reported drug kill- what crime he is being accused. woman Loida Nicolas Lewis of funding such case is filed.’ Blah blah blah blah blah blah,” Du- ings in the country, saying it cannot intervene in a “What is extra-judicial killing? If you accuse efforts, saying Lewis also conspired with the terte added. “From the looks of it, it’s all politics,” country where the justice system is still working. me of what is extra-judicial killing, there is no ICC to have him prosecuted for crimes against he pointed out, referring to the ICC initiative. A8 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 business & PAL, now a 4-Star global airline tech news comfort on all classes. The latest Boeing 777s and the incom- ing Airbus A350s will further upgrade the PAL fleet for the airline’s long-haul international Itama po natin! routes. A few of the country’s BEN LOU without a fight. Ang ating lesson, Ang perang pinaghi- outstanding chefs were com- Q: A repair rapan ay dapat handang ipaglaban. missioned to whip up exciting shop did my brakes At Debt Aid Consulting, we pride our- dishes for domestic, regional, and international flights. PAL and I paid the selves with providing only Federal Trade rolled out its myPAL eSuite charges. After a Commission compliant programs. Our pro- personal TV service that gives couple of days, the grams are here to help you get out of debt passengers access to a wide se- brakes made some sooner than later and we do not send your lection of movies, music and TV noise when I step information outside of the country. shows via touch screen moni- on it. They told me If you need help in getting out of pay- tors in all classes of many PAL I need other parts and they need to charge day loans, or any other unsecured debts, PAL CEO Lucio Tan (4th from left) receives the certification from Skytrax aircraft, while myPAL Player me for parts and labor. Is there something call Debt Aid Consulting. We have free (Photo: www.youtube.com) provides in flight entertainment wrong with that? Credit Repair while and after your program. A big win for the Philip- network, added new aircraft using passengers’ own devices. A: If you feel you have been wronged We do not use call centers which keeps pines -- PAL CEO to our fleet and importantly, myPAL Wi-fi allows passengers by a car repair shop and resident of Cali- your information safe. We have a new Philippine Airlines (PAL) invested in the Buong Pusong to surf, browse and stay con- fornia, you can report this to BAR(Bureau program that reconstruct debts for half of has been certified as a 4-Star Alaga (whole-hearted) training nected during the flight. of Automotive Repair). Please check your what you would pay our competitors. We airline by Skytrax, the inter- of all our cabin crew, ground PAL also embraced a new local State for repairs enforcement. also provide legal assistance that keeps national air transport rating crew and service providers Brand Visual Identity inspired A client called seeking advice on what collectors away. We take Federal Credit organisation. PAL, joining 40 domestically and internationally by the Tapestry of the Filipino to do because he had his brakes repaired Unions, Military Debts, Payday loans and other well-renowned airlines in order to enhance the passen- People. This new visual lan- by a company then a couple of days later high interest personal loans in our program in this prestigious category, is ger travel experience and earn guage, designed with Inter- it started making noises when he stepped too. This is exclusively available for Debt the first and only airline in the a higher Skytrax rating,” added brand, a global design studio, on it. I told him to stop driving the car and Aid Consulting clients. None of our com- country to have a 4-Star Rating. Bautista. will be rolled out to unify the look of PAL’s products and bring it back right away to the repair shop petitors provide this program. You are well PAL achieved this coveted “We want to place PAL visual touchpoints. who fixed it. He already did that and they protected. rating after Skytrax conducted at par with the world’s best For better on-ground told him there is another part needed and We only provide Federal Trade Com- a rigorous audit of the airline’s airlines. With this 4-star rating, inflight and on ground service we are inspired to work even service at airports, PAL reno- that he would have to pay for that part and mission compliant programs. Debt relief vated the inter-terminal transit labor to install that part. He didn’t feel companies who charge non refundable for both international and do- harder. We will continue to mestic flights and noted major delight our customers by giving lounge at the NAIA Terminal right about it so he called me. upfront fees are in violation of the ban. Go enhancements on its end-to- them their desired experience, 2, improved its business class I told him that it didn’t seem right with Debt Aid Consulting! end passenger experience and the best service in flight and check-in product, introduced that the car shop would ask him to pay for Do not fall for marketing gimmicks distinct whole-hearted service on ground, across all phases a more efficient boarding labor in order to install a part that they saying that they have the right program for called Buong Pusong Alaga. of travel,” stressed PAL Chief procedure and put up airport should have replaced the first time. This you. Most marketing companies only have “This is a big win for the Customer Experience Officer terminal signage for passenger seems like a double whammy. If they need one program and will enroll you in that pro- Philippines,” said PAL Chair- Jessica Abaya. convenience. to install a new part that they should have gram whether it fits you or not. So beware! man & CEO Dr. Lucio C. Tan. Skytrax is the London- The next big step: a new, done the first time, the labor to take it apart Ben Lou at your service! I have over “We are elated by this recogni- based international air trans- bigger and more sophisticated again should not be on you especially if this 30 years of real financial experience. If tion which is a victory for the port rating organization which Mabuhay Lounge to open by the should have been done correctly the first you would like sound financial advice, call more than seven thousand carries out comprehensive second quarter of 2018. Abaya time. They are not paying for your time to us at Debt Aid Consulting. We do not use members of the Philippine Air- airport and airline audits and said, “We have started the bring the car back and wait for the repairs call centers like Financial Rescue. No one lines family. Our achievement is ranks airlines worldwide for groundwork for the construc- to be completed. has the right to put your information at the country’s achievement and staff service standards and tion of a two-level, 1,250 square When he went back to the shop, he risk. Say no to LLC corporations in Canada! we share this with all Filipinos product quality. The Skytrax meter International Mabuhay told them what I said and told them that he Debt Aid Consulting is the first and only around the globe.” Certified Airline Star Ratings, Lounge at NAIA Terminal 2 which shall redefine the experi- would file a complaint with BAR, then that Filipino debt restructuring company incor- This 4-Star Airline rating awarded since 1999, are inter- ence of our Business Class is when the manager said that he can pay porated in the US and Canada. is a mark of quality distinction nationally recognized as a global Passengers and Frequent Flyers. for the part only. Sometimes it is a good Now serving the Caribbean Islands! that recognizes excellent stan- benchmark of airline standards. dards of Product and Staff ser- In June 2017, PAL placed The new lounge will feature a thing to ask why you are being charged for Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at tutu- Modern Filipino interior design something you don’t feel is right. Fight lungan po namin kayo. vice across different assessment sixth on the list of the World’s categories for both the Onboard Most Improved Airlines and inspired by the Filipino tapestry for your rights and for your money. You Itama po natin ang mali! and Airport environment. was ranked by Skytrax as 67th from different regions of the worked hard for it. Don’t just give it up Commenting on the 4-Star out of 320 airlines, reflecting a country. We will showcase Airline Rating awarded to Phil- 16-notch increase in rankings the Best of the Filipino food, ippine Airlines, Edward Plaist- from that of 2016. outstanding service from our ed, Skytrax CEO said: “This rec- From 2016 up to the pres- lounge staff, and world class ognizes the great improvements ent, the PAL Group finalized amenities such as private work that the airline has introduced fleet orders of Airbus A350s, stations, a meeting room, sleep- over the last 2 years, both in A321s, Boeing 777s and Bom- ing pods, shower and changing terms of product change and de- bardier Q400 Next Generation rooms, and a massage room velopment and enhancement of planes bringing the fleet count where passengers can enjoy the front-line staff service. New to 88 aircraft, the largest fleet traditional Filipino hilot.” and retrofitted aircraft have in the Philippines; developed With the 4-Star rating now played an important part in the new domestic hubs (Clark, certified, PAL aims to intensify quality improvement process, Cebu, Davao); introduced new efforts as it continues unveiling and this looks set to develop international routes from Clark new products and expanding further when Philippine Airlines (to Seoul) and Cebu (to Bang- routes, including the launch of introduces the A350 into their kok, Chengdu, Beijing, etc.); non-stop services to New York fleet. We look for consistency of launched direct nonstop ser- and Brisbane as well as flights quality in the 4-Star rating, and vices between Manila and Auck- to India and additional routes to we look to Philippine Airlines to land and Manila and Toronto Japan and China within 2018. ensure this is duly delivered to in addition to existing direct “By offering the public a customers.” flights to London, San Francis- globally competitive airline The rating upgrade is a key co, Los Angeles, etc; improved service, we are empowered to result of a multi-year top-to- on-time performance while attract more tourists to visit the bottom end-to-end enhance- maximizing fleet productivity; Philippines to see our country’s ment of the Philippine flag car- and strengthened its passenger beauty and experience our rier. “Our Get That Star journey care through the “Buong Pusong people’s warmth. We can help began in 2016. Our efforts over Alaga” (wholehearted service) generate more economic activity the last two years have borne philosophy, leveraging on its for the Philippines. I am very fruit,” said PAL President and Brand Equity as the “Heart of happy and proud that Philip- COO Jaime J. Bautista. “Since the Filipino.” pine Airlines, our National 2016, we have embarked on a Eight of the airline’s 15 Carrier, is now a 4-Star Global journey of rolling out in-flight Airbus A330s have undergone a Airline.” said PAL President and on-ground innovations, total cabin transformation from Bautista. opened new routes, increased a single economy to a tri-class connectivity across PAL’s route cabin providing maximum February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star A9 world news Trump threatens China sanctions, vows to rework S.Korea trade deal Tillerson calls on allies to focus on fighting IS US Secretary of State Rex the outlawed Kurdistan Workers’ transparent builds a society that US President Donald But Trump also is under trade CATO institute said that Tillerson urged allies Tuesday Party (PKK). can counter extremist ideologies,” Trump threatened retaliatory domestic pressure. He came to Trump may be forced moderate to stay focused on fighting the “We remain concerned over Tillerson told the conference. action against two major Asian office vowing to be a champion his actions, if not his tone. Islamic State group, saying recent events in northwest Syria Iraq’s Prime Minister Haider trading partners Tuesday, of America’s rust belt and said “Despite the rhetoric, Turkey’s military offensive in and call on all parties to remain al-Abadi said his government had warning of sanctions against Monday he had to act to save Trump doesn’t want to subvert northern Syria had “detracted” focused on defeating ISIS,” Til- started fighting bureaucracy and China while vowing to revise the “empty factories” he saw on ‘his’ economy,” Ikenson wrote from the anti-jihadist battle. lerson said. corruption with a “programme of or scrap a free this week. Tillerson spoke at a minis- “We will continue to be economic reforms”. trade deal with “Trump terial meeting in Kuwait of the completely transparent with Wide range of projects South Korea. is today more US-led military coalition that has Turkey about our efforts in Syria French Foreign Minister Accus- aware that been fighting IS in Iraq and Syria, to defeat ISIS,” he added, giving a Jean-Yves Le Drian said all of ing Beijing of the impulsive being held in parallel with a con- nod to Turkey’s right to “counter- Iraq should benefit from “re- decimating actions he has ference on reconstruction in Iraq. terrorism efforts” on its border. construction, stabilisation and American steel threatened to The jihadist group has lost Tillerson said the United national reconciliation”. and aluminum take would carry much of the territory it once States would nonetheless main- He cited “Kurdistan, which controlled when it seized large tain an “ISIS-focused military took more than its share of the industries, some very sig- swathes of Syria and neighbour- presence in Syria” and “continue burden and the sacrifices” in the Trump said he nificant econom- ing Iraq in 2014. to train local security forces” -- a fight against IS. was “consider- ic and political “The end of major combat reference to Washington’s con- Araji said that Iraq, which ing all op- costs.” operations does not mean we tentious Kurdish allies. has been either at war or under tions,” includ- That is also have achieved the enduring defeat He said IS had the capac- international sanctions since ing tariffs and true for rela- of ISIS,” Tillerson said, using ity to re-emerge in liberated 1980, is offering projects in quotas. tions with South another acronym for IS. territories of Iraq and Syria or almost every field of its economy, Trump re- (L-R) President Donald Trump and PROC President Xi Jinping Korea, which are “ISIS remains a serious elsewhere. from oil to agriculture. cently received (Photo: www.asianinvestor.net) already strained threat to the stability of the “Every one of us must World Bank officials joined two Commerce over Trump’s sa- region, our homelands and other continue to adapt and strengthen Iraqi government representatives Department ber rattling over parts of the globe,” he said. our coalition to counter ISIS’ on Tuesday in Kuwait City to seek reports concerning alleged the campaign trail. North Korea’s nuclear program. Iraq declared victory over IS own network of foreign fighters, pledges from more than 2,000 Chinese subsidies for steel and Widening trade deficit Taking aim at Seoul, in December, but the extremist financing and propaganda. representatives of international aluminum exports -- materials The US trade deficit Trump complained that Amer- group still has a presence in Syria, “We have seen in Iraq and firms. that are vital for industries from -- which Trump has vowed re- ica’s 2012 free trade deal with where the US-led coalition has Syria the consequences of an ISIS They talked up legal guar- construction to autos. peatedly to fix -- widened even South Korea “was a disaster,” backed a Kurdish-Arab alliance territorial presence. History must antees available in post-IS Iraq, He has another two months further during his first year in vowing the United States would fighting the jihadists. not be allowed to repeat itself pointing to an investment law And Iraqi government forces elsewhere,” Tillerson said. that offers ownership, unlimited to decide on possible retaliatory office, up 12 percent to $566 renegotiate a “fair deal” or scrap backed by a US-led coalition last Iraq seeks support cash transfers and tax breaks, action, but strongly indicated billion. it altogether. week staged a major operation War-battered Iraq sought among other benefits. that he is leaning toward hitting “They’re dumping and The Trump administration against “IS remnants” in the Tuesday to attract international Nizar Nasser Hussein, head back at Beijing. destroying our industry, and de- initiated talks to renegotiate the northeast. investors to rebuild the country at of the legal department at the “I will make a decision that stroying the families of workers, United States-Korea (KORUS) Anti-IS infighting a parallel reconstruction confer- National Investment Commis- reflects the best interests of the and we can’t let that happen,” trade agreement in July last The US-backed campaign ence in Kuwait, offering hundreds sion, said the latest version of the United States, including the Trump told a group of Republi- year, arguing it was lopsided be- against IS in Syria has been of projects and touting extensive law does not distinguish between need to address overproduction can and Democratic lawmakers cause American’s bilateral trade complicated since Turkey-backed legal guarantees. foreign and Iraqi investors. in China and other countries,’ at the White House. deficit had ballooned under it. Arab militia last month began an “Iraq is open for investors,” “Foreign investors can he said. Trump received some sup- “We have a very, very bad offensive against Kurdish forces declared Sami al-Araji, chairman establish Iraqi companies,” he Experts believe any US port from the group, but also trade deal with Korea,” Trump in the northwestern region of of Iraq’s National Investment told AFP, adding that investors sanctions would prompt China warnings that action against said. “For us it produced noth- Afrin. Commission, on the second day of would be given lease contracts for to respond with sanctions of China could drive up prices and ing but losses.” The Turkish operation the conference. 50 years, renewable for a similar its own, raising the specter of a hurt US manufacturing outside Trump’s comments came a “has detracted from our fight to Baghdad says it needs nearly period. trade war between the world’s the steel and aluminum sectors. day after he singled out South defeat Islamic State in eastern $90 billion to rebuild devastated Investors will also be exempt two largest economies. “Mr. President, I think we Korea and China, along with Ja- Syria”, Tillerson said of ongoing homes, schools, hospitals and from customs duties and income China produces around do need to be careful here, that pan, over their trade surpluses offensives by US-backed Kurdish economic infrastructure after tax for 10-15 years, Hussein said. militia to clear remaining pockets three years of war against IS. Iraq on Monday sentenced half of the world’s steel and is we don’t start a reciprocal battle with the United States, accus- of extremists. It is a tall order, given scepti- a former trade minister to 21 accused of flooding the market on tariffs,’ said Republican ing them of “getting away with “Forces have diverted from cism about the government’s years in jail for corruption, weeks in order to keep the economic Senator Roy Blunt. murder.” (AFP) there to Afrin,” he said. record on corruption. after Interpol handed him over to wheels turning at home. “You know, we make The Kurdish People’s Protec- Iraq in 2016 came 11th from authorities, a government source For decades Chinese lead- aluminum and we make steel” tion Units (YPG) have been a key the bottom on Transparency In- said. ers have been consumed with he said. “But we buy a lot of VISIT component of the US-backed ternational’s Corruption Percep- Araji said investors in Iraq the need to -- as former presi- aluminum and we buy a lot of alliance fighting IS, but Wash- tions Index. will find “high risks, but high dent Hu Jintao once put it -- steel as well.” www.filamstar.com ington’s NATO ally Turkey says “A government that is returns”. (AFP) create “25 million jobs a year.” Daniel Ikenson of the pro- they are a “terrorist” offshoot of inclusive, accountable, and A10 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star B1 community Winter Fancy Food (Part 2 of 2) New and unique Philippine food products from the 2018 show By Harvey I. Barkin

(Continued from last week) City) started as a specialty bakeshop. They exhibited handle. As the name has it, their pili But you can’t beat their meat – Kamayan (yes, the their Gems brand banana and mango flour. They are nuts are from the fertile soil around sautéed shrimp paste brand) frozen boneless lechon the first bread and pastry chain to make bread, muf- Mount Mayon. Mount Mayon pili belly at about 3.3 pounds. fins and energy bars with mango flour. Mango flour is nuts was the only gourmet product Hacienda Macalauan is a dairy farm founded by a gluten-free and also rich in fiber, digestive enzymes and featured by France’s Michelin chefs member of the family operating San Miguel Corp. and anti-oxidants. The flour is milled from mango peel and at the annual Meilleurs Ouviers de Magnolia Dairy. Hacienda just started in the 1990s and seeds. They also have mango butter which has cosmetic France in Cote d’Azur last year. processes liquid applications like Super Q exhibited quality bihon milk and cheese in lotion, soap (corn-starch base), palabok (thicker products like and make-up corn-starch base), pansit canton kesong puti, ricotta remover. (deep fried, wheat-based) and misua (for all you lasagna Pasciolco (flour vermicelli) and other wet JNRM’s Green Leaves instant mixes and multi-purpose flavorings Photo eaters out there) Agri Ventures noodles. by Robin Barkin and cottage cheese. is a single Islamic proprietorship Da’wah Council is a with a Japan- federation of Mus- based mother lim organizations company. It in the Philippines combines the and exhibited halal best of Japanese products. tech and Fili- JNRM (with pino ingenuity headquarters in to produce fresh Bulacan) exhibited food with no ar- their Green Leaves tificial additive brand of instant and flavoring. mixes: sapin-sapin, Profood maja blanca, puto, Arko Foods’ buko pandan salad Photo by Robin Barkin International kutsinta, espasol, (with headquar- ube halaya and bib- ters in Cebu) is ingka. They also have spices, herbs and multi-purpose the largest Philippine-based dried fruit producer. Its flavoring concentrates up to x3 and x4 without water popular Philippine brand dried mangoes has reached or alcohol from 10 ml. to 1 gallon. They can also supply the Middle East, the Caribbean and Oceania, and the homebound baker the necessary ingredients like North, Central and South America. It’s hard to imagine sodium benzoate, potassium sorbate, sodium bicarbon- that once upon a time, you can’t even get it at Costco. ate, citric acid, xanthum gum, propylene glycol in 500 Truly, Profood is the house that dried mango built. grams up to 1-gallon containers. But the item most Now, they built an altar for mangoes -- the Profood grabbed from their booth is the 20 ml. multi-purpose Gallery with a mango museum and factory tour on the flavoring. It is highly concentrated with no alcohol way to Lapu-lapu City. and no calorie with a wide range of flavors from Black Sagrex Foods exhibited microwavable frozen Forest Cake to Fish Sauce to Ube to Ylang-ylang. People banana and banana fries through its own Individual apparently add a zing of flavor not just in their food Quick Freeze technology (IQF). Most defrosted fruit but also in their vape or just pop it in their mouth with come out deformed. But IQF freezes fruit in less than mouth rinse. an hour and is transported in 18 degrees Centigrade Magical Blend Marketing (with headquarters or below. Defrosted fruit processed through IQF will in Quezon City) exhibited7-in-1 herbal coffee mix maintain its shape, form and color. (with Gingko Biloba, Tongkat-Ali or Long Jack, and Seabest Food and Beverage (with headquarters in Omega 3), sugar-free herbal coffee mix (with mor- South Cotabato) exhibited Pearl brand bottled drinking inga, grapefruit, Tongkat-Ali and Omega 3), red tea water; dehydrated pineapple, papaya, mango and guy- mangosteen, green tea with L-carnitine and collagen abano; mango puree; and tropical fruit drinks. essence guyabano herbal juice. As their brand says, Subic Superfood (with headquarters in Subic Bay they offer supplements and wellness products. But the Freeport Zone) exhibited their Mount Mayon brand real magic is that they can customize products as gifts Pili nuts. Better than pecan, walnut and almond, the and giveaways. pili nut has the highest vitamin E content than any nut. Magic Melt Foods (with headquarters in Cebu But if not processed with their SloDry, pili its too oily to B2 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 AARP Foundation tax-aide available now through April 17 Free tax preparation service celebrates 50 years and 50 million served WASHINGTON, DC, February 13, 2018 — Now through April 17, AARP Foundation is providing free tax assistance and preparation through its Tax-Aide program. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, celebrating its 50th year, is the nation’s largest free tax assistance and preparation service. Since its inception, the program has served more than 50 million taxpayers. Tax-Aide started in 1968 with just four volunteers working at one site. Today, nearly 35,000 volun- teers serve low- to moderate-in- come taxpayers at 5,000 locations in neighborhood libraries, malls, banks, community centers and senior centers nationwide. There’s no fee, and AARP membership is Year of the Dog begins on February 16 not required. Some locations offer The Dog is the eleventh of all assistance in additional languages. zodiac animals. According to one “People may be confused about myth, the Jade Emperor said the how to file their taxes. AARP offers order would be decided by the free tax filing and some of the sites order in which they arrived to his have tax counselors who speak party. Monkey, Rooster and Dog Vietnamese, Korean, Mandarin, Cantonese, Tagalog or other languages,” said Rose Chu who has served as a were in another country, helping volunteer tax counselor with AARP Foundation Tax-Aide for 10 years. “The knowledge that I’ve aided those a god defeat evil spirits. After, who would have otherwise had a difficult time is why I continue to volunteer year after year.” they set off to the party together. AARP Foundation Tax-Aide volunteer Rose Chu has been providing free tax help for 10 years. Tax-Aide volunteers are trained and IRS-certified each year to ensure they know about and understand Because they arrived at the same the latest changes to the U.S. Tax Code. In 2017, the program’s volunteers helped 2.5 million people navigate time, the Jade Emperor went by complicated tax codes, ensure proper credits and deductions, and file their federal and state tax returns. the order they met the god in the Taxpayers who used Tax-Aide received $1.37 billion in income tax refunds and more than $222 million in other country. Thus, Dog became Earned Income Tax Credits (EITCs). They also avoided tax preparation fees and pitches for high-interest tax eleventh. credit or refund loans. The Dog is also associated “Tax-Aide has helped millions of low- and moderate-income taxpayers for 50 years,” said Daphne with the Earthly Branch (dì zhī) Kwok, AARP Vice President of Multicultural Leadership, Asian American and Pacific Islander Audience xū, and the hours 7–9 in the Strategy. “If you need assistance figuring out the new tax rules or if you need help in another language, take evening. In the terms of yin and advantage of free preparation and advice from AARP.” yang, the Dog is yang. To find an AARP Foundation Tax-Aide site or more information, including which documents to bring to In China, it is still popular to (Photo: www. fengshuiagency.com) the tax site, visit aarpfoundation.org/taxaide or call 1-888-AARPNOW (1-888-227-7669). AARP Foundation name dogs Wàng Cái. It means Tax-Aide is offered in conjunction with the IRS. “prosperous wealth” and comes from dogs’ barking sounds (wàng wàng). Honest and loyal, Dogs are the truest friends and most reliable partner. Recent years of the Dog are: 1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018 Paired with the Celestial Stems (Tiān gān), there is a 60-year calendrical cycle. Although xū is as- sociated with earth, the years also cycle through the five elements of nature (wu xíng). (Source: www. chinesenewyear2018.com) tion of the AJ Strong Memo- rial Run is poised to be Team Team Cancer Sucks to host the 4th annual AJ Strong Cancer Sucks’ largest event yet. Memorial 6.5k run in San Francisco on March 4, 2018 Registration for AJ Strong event ers. The team made an instant is open at www.brazenracing. San Francisco, CA (Febru- Sucks’ co-founder & Iron Man, AJ Strong Memorial 6.5k Run” splash at events due to the very com/teamcancersucks. ary 1, 2018) – Team Cancer AJ Jabonero, this event com- says Vera Packard, Executive “loud” race kits that they wore, For more information Sucks, an organization that memorates his life, which ended Director of the Lazarex Can- which drew instant attention once again to help raise aware- about Team Cancer Sucks raises funds to help cancer too soon after he lost his own cer Foundation. “We love the with its hot pink and lightning ness for the single largest public please contact Chris Douglas patients access medical care will battle to hepatitis B induced mission of Team Cancer Sucks bolts design. From that point health disparity facing the Asian at chris@presidiosportsmgmt. host their annual event, the AJ liver cancer at age 30 in 2015, and look forward to continue to on, the Team Cancer Sucks American and Pacific Islander com. Strong Memorial 6.5k Run in and honors those battling and work with them to help more following grew. To date, Team community, hepatitis B. We San Francisco on March 4, 2018 those who have lost their battle cancer patients access needed Cancer Sucks has raised over greatly appreciate the kindness in the Presidio at Crissy Field. to cancer. AJ’s journey was fea- medical treatment.” $200,000 for cancer patients. and support Team Cancer Sucks The fourth edition of the annual tured in the film titled after his With the mission to raise SF Hep B Free – Bay Area’s has shown our organization, event will benefit two charities motto “Don’t Talk About It. Be funds to help cancer patients Executive Director, Arcadi and look forward to another assisting cancer patients, SF About It.” The film BE ABOUT access and pay for treatments, Kolchak is “humbled to have year of working to make the Bay Hep B Free-Bay Area and the IT can be screened here. Team Cancer Sucks was created an opportunity to partner with Area hepatitis B free! Lazarex Cancer Foundation. “Lazarex is honored to once in 2013 to use the endurance Team Cancer Sucks and the With the help of some Named after Team Cancer again be a beneficiary for the sports platform to help oth- Lazarex Cancer Foundation amazing sponsors, the 4th edi- February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star B3 community NaFFAA expresses concern on White awareness House’s Immigration Framework Former Supervisors Matt Gonzalez and WASHINGTON, DC – In response to the White cus of the current debate should Recently, the White House House’s immigration frame- be on the countless stories of released its Framework on work, the National Federation re-unified family members and John Avalos endorse Jane Kim for Mayor Immigration Reform & Bor- of Filipino American Associa- how they have contributed to SAN FRANCISCO – The der Security, which contains tions (NaFFAA) issued the fol- the freedom and opportunity of two top contenders for mayor a provision limiting family lowing statement: the American promise.” in the last two competitive sponsorships to “spouses and “While we agree that the Marie Cunning, member of elections are united behind minor children only,” NaFFAA’s Board of Jane Kim. Former San Fran- thereby supporting Governors, added: cisco Board of Supervisors the elimination of “As a national President Matt Gonzalez and sponsorships for par- voice for Filipino Supervisor John Avalos re- ents, adult children, Americans, NaF- cently announced their support and siblings. FAA expresses our for Jane Kim in her campaign According to the concern for any for Mayor of San Francisco.“I National Visa Cen- proposal that would am endorsing Jane Kim for ter’s Annual Report separate Filipino mayor because she is the most of Immigrant Visa families from their progressive candidate in the Applicants, there are loved ones. Family- more than 333,000 based immigration field and shares my commit- Filipinos waiting to re-unite White House’s proposed path- has helped positively transform ment to economic justice and with their loved ones here in way to citizenship for DREAM- the lives of Filipino Americans neighborhood empowerment,” the United States. Not only do ers represents progress in the across this great nation. With said former Supervisor Matt Filipinos have the second high- immigration debate, we believe more than 333,000 Filipinos Gonzalez. “She’s been a leader est number of family-sponsored that the additional restrictions waiting in line, we encour- in lifting the minimum wage waiting list registrants in the they propose on family-based age the Administration and to $15 an hour and in securing world (second only to Mexico) immigration is an affront to the Congress to support immigra- expanded educational opportu- but they also suffer the longest American spirit of compassion tion reform that protects and nities for San Franciscans who wait times of any group: more and freedom,” said NaFFAA expedites family reunification, attend City College. Having than 23 years according to the National Chairman Brendan instead of eliminating this fair served on the Board of Educa- latest Visa Bulletin. Flores. “We believe that the fo- and compassionate process.” tion, her in-depth knowledge of our local schools will make her the first mayor in over Public utilities commission protects access to 40 years to have that criti- cal experience and firsthand (L-R) Matt Gonzales, Jane Kim, and John Avalos phone service for low-income Californians knowledge. I am certain Jane Advocates praise move to low-income Americans,” said tance Program, and Temporary will make a fine mayor.” save LifeLine from Federal cuts Greenlining Institute Telecom- Assistance for Needy Families “Jane Kim has devoted her class residents have a place in Francisco to lead on behalf of SAN FRANCISCO – At munications Legal Counsel from the list of programs that career to fighting for all San this city.” our nation and show what it the urging of The Greenlining Vinhcent Le. “From preserving qualify people for LifeLine Francisco residents – to make “I am incredibly honored means to invest in affordable Institute and other advocates, access to affordable healthcare assistance, potentially cutting our diverse city more equitable to have the early and strong housing, public education and the California Public Utilities and growing momentum for off over 81,000 current par- so that everyone can share support of Matt Gonzalez and public infrastructure to regrow Commission recently approved state net neutrality protections, ticipants and blocking another in its wealth,” said former John Avalos – they are pro- a strong working and middle- a plan spearheaded by Commis- to today’s decision on LifeLine, 322,000 more from eligibility Supervisor John Avalos. “I gressive champions and public class community again.” sioner Martha Guzman-Aceves California has consistently based on income. am proud to stand with Jane policy heavyweights who to protect low-income Cali- fought to protect its most vul- The new decision preserves because I have worked side by have dedicated their careers, fornians from drastic Federal nerable citizens.” current eligibility rules, with the side with her on tough battles, inside and outside elected of- cutbacks to eligibility for the Eligibility for LifeLine is state making up the cost differ- like negotiating record levels fice, to fight for everyday San LifeLine program. LifeLine pro- based on either income or par- ence. Greenlining was joined of affordable housing in new Franciscans,” said Supervisor vides affordable phone service ticipation in a variety of govern- by a variety of other consumer developments and making City Kim. “At a moment when this (including smartphone data) to ment assistance programs for advocates, including TURN College free once again. I know country is being led in the low-income customers. low-income people. Previously, and the Center for Accessible she will fight every day she is absolute wrong direction by a “This decision marks a the FCC removed the National Technology, in advocating for mayor of this city to make sure right-wing billionaire and his great milestone in California’s School Lunch Program, Low the decision. that disenfranchised people, corporate cronies in the White resistance to the Federal war on Income Home Energy Assis- working families and middle- House, now is the time for San B4 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 legal & law ICE arrests at courthouses policy Deportation of teacher from U.S. postponed in mid-flight Jamal, 55, has lived in the United States for guidance 30 years, overstaying his second visa in 2011. ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO Without a relatively speedy path to citizen- ship, he had been granted a waiver to remain The American Immigration Council provide us a report of ICE in the country and legally work. But the waiver policy guidance in courthouses. After a significant increase in arrests meant immigration authorities could deport outside of courthouses in 2017, Immigration and Customs Enforce- him at any time. ment (ICE) has finally released new guidance that officially gives He suddenly was arrested three weeks ago its agents permission to conduct civil immigration enforcement at while taking his daughter to school. courthouses. An immigration judge issued a stay of his While this guidance is new, the practice is not. ICE’s presence deportation last week, but lifted the order Mon- and arrests at courthouses have prompted public outcry from judges, day. In response, immigration authorities put public officials and community members, who point to evidence that Jamal on a flight to Bangladesh. the practice generates fear and hurts public safety. Local law enforce- Then, an immigration appeals court granted ment agencies experienced concerning drops in crime reporting after one such courthouse another stay mid-flight, and Jamal was kept on arrest by ICE. US soil during a layover in Hawaii. The lack of guidance regarding courts has generated frustration and confusion, since Jamal’s supporters say that he has commit- courthouses are not included in ICE’s sensitive locations memo instructing agents to generally ted no crimes during the time he has lived in the avoid arrests in and outside of places like schools, churches, and hospitals. The new directive, United States. however, does provide clearer parameters for courthouse actions. They say his case is an example of how the The directive, dated January 10 but only made public last week, states that ICE agents recent US immigration crackdown has swept up Syed Ahmed Jamal and officials have the authority to conduct immigration enforcement inside federal, state, and law-abiding immigrants, despite Trump’s initial (Photo: www.dissdash.com) local courthouses against “specific, targeted” individuals when the agency has information promise that deportations would target danger- suggesting the person is currently located at the courthouse. ous criminals. The fate of a foreign-born teacher was in Hundreds have written letters urging immi- The guidance describes these enforcement actions as the apprehension, arrest, interview, limbo Tuesday after his deportation from the or search of targeted individuals, including those in the country identified as: gration officials to halt Jamal’s deportation. An United States was temporarily stopped while his online fundraising campaign has raised nearly 1. gang members; flight was en route to his native Bangladesh. 2. national security or public safety threats; $70,000 and an online petition has gathered Syed Ahmed Jamal, a chemistry teacher almost 100,000 signatures. 3. having orders of removal; or based in Lawrence, Kansas, was taken off the 4. having “re-entered the country illegally after being removed.” US Congressman Emanuel Cleaver, a Dem- flight during a layover in Hawaii -- the result of ocratic lawmaker to whom Jamal’s supporters With immigration arrests in the interior increasing under the Trump administration, a dizzying chain of events that culminated in a appealed for help, said the case was an example legal service providers and immigrant rights advocates have cited more ICE activity at court- last-minute stay of his deportation. of the country’s “broken and unfair immigration houses, including arrests of U.S. citizens and individuals testifying as witnesses—people who “He has been taken off the plane, not re- system.” should not be targeted based on these general guidelines ICE has now made public. turned to Kansas City as yet,” Jamal’s attorney He pledged to offer a bill that would allow For example, the guidance stipulates that ICE will generally not go after non-targeted Rekha Sharma-Crawford told AFP on Tuesday. Jamal to stay in the country. individuals encountered at the courthouse—such as family members, friends, or someone A father of three US citizen children and a “The system is broken. We need to fix these serving as a witness. Yet these “collateral arrests” are not prohibited. Rather, ICE agents could beloved member of his community, Jamal’s case laws that criminalize hard-working, contribut- make such an arrest under “special circumstances, such as where the individual poses a threat has led to a massive outpouring of support from ing members of society like Mr. Syed Jamal,” to public safety or interferes with ICE’s enforcement actions.” friends, neighbors and critics of US President Cleaver said. (AFP) In addition, it directs ICE agents, whenever possible, to “conduct enforcement actions Donald Trump’s immigration policies. discreetly to minimize their impact on court proceedings.” Further, these actions should gen- erally avoid “areas within courthouses that are dedicated to non-criminal (e.g., family court, small claims court) proceedings.” In other words, federal immigration enforcement may take place in and around court- New York bomber sentenced to life in prison houses and agents and officials are instructed, generally, to keep their actions focused on specific individuals away from the public. Chelsea and found additional pipe bombs in Yet, the directive also leaves much to the discretion of ICE agents and officials, requiring Rahimi’s hometown of Elizabeth, New Jersey, no additional documentation or approval beyond an agent’s Field Office Director or Special where he worked in his family’s fried chicken Agent in Charge. restaurant. While this directive from ICE is an important development to better clarify and guide Rahimi was critically wounded in a shoo- federal immigration enforcement at courthouses, the real test will be in how federal agents tout with police on September 19 before being use the directive—and tracking the impact on our communities and their trust in local institu- captured, and was found with a handwritten tions. journal lauding Osama bin Laden and US-born This article is for general information only and is not a legal advice. Al-Qaeda recruiter Anwar al-Awlaki. SUCCESS STORIES Since his arrest, two other lone-wolf attack- 1. For the week ending February 9, 2018, we received approvals of one I-485, one N-400, ers have carried out bombings in New York. A one I-90 and one I-751. Bangladeshi driver detonated a bomb in a sub- 2. On January 12, 2018, we received an approval of immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate way passageway, wounding himself and three Manila for an alien who applied for I-601-A as one who entered as a seaman. other people in December. 3. On January 10, 2018, we received an approval form USCIS of a self petition for abused On October 31, an Uzbek immigrant, also Ahmad Khan Rahimi reportedly inspired by the Islamic State extrem- spouse based on same sex marriage. (Photo: www.americansecuritytoday.com) 4. On January 3, 2018, we received an approval from the Immigration Court for a waiver ist group, killed eight people on a bike path by of misrepresentation for a client who was charged with misrepresentation in marriage; A New York judge on Tuesday sentenced a ramming his truck into cyclists. New York retains stringent security, which 5. On December 15, 2017, we received an approval from USCIS for an adjustment of US restaurant worker to life in prison following was drastically stepped up after the September status for same sex marriage for an applicant who entered without inspection but has Sec. 245 a September 2016 bombing that wounded 31 11, 2001 Al-Qaeda hijackings brought down the (i). people in Manhattan’s upscale Chelsea neigh- Twin Towers. (AFP) 6. On November 16, 2017, we received an approval from Immigration Court for a waiver borhood. of misrepresentation for entering as single daughter of U.S. citizen but actually married. Afghan-born Ahmad Khan Rahimi, 30, was 7. On October 25, 2017, we received an approval of I-485 adjustment of status for our cli- convicted at trial last October on eight counts ent who has a DUI but has proof that he has cleared his record. linked to two bombs he planted in New York, 8. On October 20, 2017, we received an approval of naturalization for a client who was and others found in New Jersey. granted a waiver of misrepresentation in Immigration Court. “There is nothing that could justify anything 9. On October 16, 2017, we received from USCIS an approval for an adjustment of status but a life sentence,” US District Judge Richard for same sex marriage, after two scheduled interviews. Berman told the court. 10. On October 9, 2017, we received an approval from USCIS for adjustment of “There is no comparison between the griev- status for a client who entered as a seaman but has Sec. 245 (i) eligibility. ances that you may feel and the actions you 11. On October 2, 2017, we received an approval of adjustment of status from USCIS for a took,” he said. “The conclusion is inescapable that you remain extremely dangerous.” client who entered without inspection but has Sec. 245(i). At Rahimi’s two-week trial, prosecutors said 12. For the week ending September 15, 2017, we received three Immigrant Visa it was a “miracle” that nobody was killed in the Approvals in U.S. Embassy Manila for three applicants who entered as seaman under the September 17, 2016 attack. Provisional Waiver Program. A second bomb forced the cancellation of a If you have immigration problems the Law Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you US Marine Corps run in the New Jersey town of find a solution before your problem gets worse which could lead to deportation and family Seaside Park. separation. Answers from LAST WEEK’S Krosword Police also defused another device in Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active member of the State Bar of California, the Ameri- can Immigration Lawyers Association and San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association. He specializes in immigration law and personal injury. For free consultation email or call (info@ ccllaw.net / 1-877-456-9266)

Why filing a probate should not be delayed By: Atty. Robert L. Ferris

Although there is no time limit or statute of limitation to file a probate it is usually not wise to delay the process. The longer a pro- bate is delayed the greater the likelihood that it will become more and more difficult to complete. Here is an example. Anna’s mother died in 2000 without a will or a trust. Anna’s father died five years earlier. Anna was an only child and she continued to live in the house owned by her deceased parents without probating her mother’s estate. In 2008 Anna died unexpectedly and in 2010Anna’s two children have found a buyer and want to sell their mother’s house. Since title to the house is still in the names of Anna’s deceased parents an affidavit of death for Anna’s father will need to be recorded at the county recorder’s office. The affidavit is necessary to trans- fer ownership of the house from Anna’s mother and father to Anna’s mother. Since Anna’s mother died without a trust her estate will need to be probated in order for the property to pass to Anna who is an only child and therefore the only heir to her mother’s estate. The probate of Anna’s mother’s estate may take anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. The problem is that in 2010 Anna is already dead so the property cannot be trans- ferred to Anna. Anna’s estate will now need to be probated and an estate representative appointed so that Anna’s mother’s estate (the house) can be transferred to the estate repre- sentative of Anna’s estate, who will then be able to transfer the property to Anna’s two sons at the conclusion of the probate of Anna’s estate. Sometimes it can be difficult to find an attorney willing to probate a case that has been delayed for many years because the attor- ney’s statutory fee for probating an estate is based on the value of the estate at the time of death. Obviously, the value of property in the Bay Area or anywhere in California was a lot less twenty or twenty-five years ago than it is today, making a long delayed probate a much less attractive case for the attorney. February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star B5 health & CTCP SHC native article A neighbor’s smoke is toxic—especially to children lifestyle The internet was once again flooded with sto- nonsmoking adults and 400 innocent children. ries last weekThat nasty smell is the first thing you In adults, secondhand smoke causes stroke, heart notice. Cigarette smoke is inside your house. disease and lung cancer. To top it off, children ex- But you don’t smoke – so how’s it getting in posed to secondhand smoke are at increased risk of Health@Heart there? sudden infant death syndrome, asthma attacks, and bronchitis. Bottom line, un- The Tragedy of Valentine less your complex is PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS completely smoke-free, you and your family Love is still thick “Just to siomai love for you, I am sending you a could be in danger. in after Valentine’s Day, box of heart-shaped tikoy with lanka. Hopia like Secondhand smoke and as powerful and it.” has over 7,000 chem- triumphant as ever, To all of our readers, an advance Happy Val- icals—70 of which are inspiring people around entine’s Day! cancer causing— and the globe, as different “SAD” on Valentine’s Day? even brief exposure to societies celebrated it Did you know that Valentine’s Day, the it is toxic. according to their own Lover’s Holiday, is within the prime You do so much tradition during that SAD season of the year? Seasonal Affective to protect your fam- special called Valentine’s Disorder (SAD) inflicts some pain on some people, ily. You put up fences Day. and is said to be caused, to a great extent, in coun- and gates. You install Indeed, there is no greater force on earth than tries where the daylight hours get shorter, pro- alarm systems. You love, one making death sweater than life without viding less sunlight. Obviously more of a disease put baby monitors it, giving up a King’s crown in a heart beat, full of in the west, like the United States, where winter around the house. love, as a great happy choice, embracing love in lingers for at least 3 months, SAD is also known But your neighbor’s poverty than riches with no love, and the senti- as the Winter Blues. Somehow it also affects some secondhand smoke ment that makes sacrificing life to save loved ones people in Asia, including the Philippines. Truth is, secondhand smoke is sneaky. It can’t be ignored. Not anymore. Talk to your land- as heaven on earth, choosing to face the risk of Victims are usually a bit depressed. They eat doesn’t need an open door or window to enter your lord today about making your apartment building death spontaneously to save a stranger, to defend much more and gain weight during the period, apartment. A neighbor’s smoke can travel through completely smoke free. one’s own country, the truth, freedom, and democ- besides being more fatigued than usual, and sleep- tiny cracks in the floors, walls, pipes, ventilation Protect your family. Learn how at TobaccoF- racy, or principle. History is replete with many ing longer than usual. These individuals develop systems, and even electrical outlets. reeCA.com other glorious moments where love had endured a craving for sweets and starches – carb! – which Each year secondhand smoke kills 41,000 and flourished over monumental adversity. seems to provide a temporary boost in their energy Knowing how I feel towards my friends, level. As a result, they tilt the scale up fast. neighbors, and even towards strangers on the SAD, as the name implies, is seasonal, and, street, and having witnessed countless varieties therefore, transient. With a good attitude and posi- 7 tips for withstanding cold weather of love, compassion, and caring among people of tive personal reinforcement, one can minimize, if If cold weather is setting in or seems to be all types in different countries around the world, not, ward off, the symptoms of SAD by controlling continuing with no end in sight, here is a selection of I often wondered why we, humans, could not the mood with social activities, exercises, and other tips for maintaining your energy in times of falling achieve world peace. I might be very naïve to even personal endeavors that interest the person. temperatures. entertain this question on my mind, but it really Broken-Heart Syndrome Hot water first thing in the morning puzzles me. In spite of the fact that I know the A lover’s broken heart could well be what it A mug of hot water and lemon with a little situation is extremely complex, I can’t understand says and means. This condition is real and not honey is a health-preserving ritual that gently wakes why we, as fellow earthlings, with our differences, uncommon. I have known persons, whose lovers up the digestive system, and promotes internal en- can’t all love, or at least respect, each other enough abandoned them, and the extreme emotional pain ergy, particularly during the winter months. to be tolerant and break bread, in peace, around and stress, led to actual insanity. The resultant Daily massage a global table, instead of trying to destroy or kill violent chemical secretions of the various hor- Before showering, massage your lower back on each other. Perhaps, I am a simpleton, I guess. mones in the body in response to the trauma could the level of the adrenal glands, which are a store- But what gave birth to this wonderful Febru- cause the brain to “short-circuit,” if you will, and house of vital energy, for instance with black spruce (Photo: www.knowsleynews.co.uk) ary day of love? go deranged. If you think about it, this could well essential oil. Two drops of this resinous oil mixed Legends of different versions have been be termed the broken-brain syndrome. And obvi- with a little vegetable oil will do wonders to warm up around for centuries tracing the origin of Valen- ously, there is no heart surgery that could fix this added bonus, thyme and spices (cardamom, cinna- the body. tine’s Day. Invariably, they all go back to ancient condition. This needs special psychiatric evalua- mon, cloves, etc.) in herbal teas have a supplemen- Dress in technical clothing Roman history. The most widely popular one re- tion and care. tary warming effect. Woolen hats, gloves and socks play a vital role lates the story of a priest named Valentine during And so with those people who experience a Menu of root vegetables in keeping our extremities warm. Be sure to choose the early days of Christianity. sudden shock by hearing news of a death in the Easy to digest and comforting, root vegetables accessories you find visually pleasing, as you are It was said that during the reign of Roman family, or by being jolted by a surprise, or any (carrots, parsnips, beetroot, turnips, radishes, much more likely to wear them. Those who are very Emperor Claudius II (A.D. 214-270), he decreed event that suddenly jacks up the catecholamine potatoes and sweet potatoes) are an excellent choice sensitive to the cold might want to slip hand warm- that young men should not marry to minimize (hormones like adrenalin that are produced follow- during cold spells. Small quantities of cereals and ers into their coat pockets. their reluctance to fight in his wars. In spite of ing stress) level in the body to 30 times higher than pulses (rice, wheat, quinoa, millet, buckwheat, Breathe through your nose this, however, Father Valentine continued to normal. Folklore has always asserted that traumat- lentils, beans, chick peas and peas) also provide the If you are not engaged in physical exercise, perform marriages secretly. For this, he was ar- ic events could cause a heart “attack,” suggesting a necessary fuel for the spleen, which plays a key role inhaling and exhaling through your nose is an excel- rested and jailed. While in prison, Valentine fell close link between emotion and the heart. It is now in maintaining the body’s energy levels. lent way of maintaining your internal temperature. in love with the blind daughter of the jailer. His appears there is a scientific basis for it. A nightly footbath The technique keeps the cold out of your throat and great faith and prayers miraculously “restored her According to Johns Hopkins cardiologist Ilan Bathing your feet in hot water at the end of the lungs. sight.” Unfortunately, their love did not last. The Wittstein, any sudden shock, extreme sadness, day is an excellent measure to combat the phenome- Hot drinks before and after meals emperor had the priest put to death by beating, or fright, “can trigger Broken-Heart Syndrome This is no time for juice or sodas. Hot drinks, non of cold-related vasoconstriction, which weakens stoning and eventual decapitation. Before he died, or Stress Cardiomyopathy, which mimics a heart not scalding but just hot, before and after meals help the immune system. After having dried your feet Valentine wrote a farewell letter to his love, sign- attack, except that the victim suffers no lasting or preserve body heat. Cold air also increases the risk thoroughly, consider massaging your arches with ing it “From Your Valentine.” This salutation of irreversible damage.” In the Broken-Heart Syn- of dehydration, so don’t forget to drink plenty of two drops of ylang-ylang essential oil, which helps endearment has endured over the centuries and drome, first described by Japanese physicians in water, tea and herbal tea throughout the day. As an promote restful sleep. (inquirer.net) used by generation after generation, now still a the 1990s and only a few weeks ago by U.S. cardi- custom in the new millennium. ologists in a published article in The New England For centuries before and after the execution Journal of Medicine, the heart is temporarily of Valentine, the Romans celebrated the contro- stunned. The rise in the stress hormone levels as a HOROSCOPE versial fertility festival on the 15th of February, result of the sudden shock causes some spasm in http://www.starlightastrology.com called Lupercalia, in honor of Juno, goddess of the coronary arteries that momentarily reduces the women and marriage. This pagan practice (young blood flow to the heart muscles. This leads to the Aries Libra men’ rights of passage, using teenage girls) was classic symptoms and signs of a heart attack. But (Mar. 21- April 20) (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) banished by Pope Gelasius in A. D. 496. To cel- the heart function in this syndrome returns back Don’t trust others with private in formation You can get phenomenal returns if you ebrate the death anniversary of Father Valentine’s to normal in 10 days or so. In a major heart attack, that could be used against you. You can make present your ideas to those who can back your death, the Church replaced the pagan ritual with a recovery takes weeks, if not months, and the heart money if you put your savings into conservative interests. You can get your point across if you Holy Day (February 14th) honoring St. Valentine. power may not return to normal at all. investments. You can have an enjoyable time if don’t beat around the bush. Don’t overload your And yearly since, people around the world honor More studies are needed to answer a multi- you socialize with friends. You need a break from plate. Opportunities for travel must be carefully their loved ones by celebrating St. Valentine’s Day tude of questions and unravel the mystery behind your daily routine. considered. in their own individual and special way. the Broken-Heart Syndrome. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. A few years ago, on Valentine’s Day, I Visit philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@ Taurus Scorpio received a text from my wife, Farida, which said, gmail.com (Apr. 21- may 21) (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You must follow your desires and dreams. You Emotionally you won’t see things accurately. can bet officials will be waiting for you when you Pamper yourself for a change. You may have a do. Be discreet about your feelings, and hold problem with coworkers if you try to tell them back until you find out a little more about the what to do. Your emotions are fluctuating, so be KrosWord person who’s coming on to you. If you take on careful not to say things you’ll regret. (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo) too much, you will find your self in martyrdom. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. PAHALANG Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. 1 Praternal na piging Sagittarius 5 Angat Gemini (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) (May 22-June 21) You will communicate with ease this week. 8 Kasabwat You will be ready to jump on anyone who gets Love and romance are evident. Find an outlet for 10 Butil na pagkain ng in the way of your progress this week. Find out any mounting frustration. Consider a creative manok what they’re up to, and see if you can pick up hobby. You will find that valuable knowledge can 12 Diwata where you left off. Opportunities to meet new be gained if you are willing to listen. 13 Uri ng isda na hawig ng lovers will I come through pleasure trips or Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. martiniko social events. Use your energy wisely. 16 Anumang nilikha ng Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. Capricorn manunulat (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 18 Sukat mula itaas hanggang Cancer Your concern with older family members and (June 22-July 22) those less fortunate than yourself will only add paibaba Try not to be overly generous. Opportunities to your attractiveness. You’re on the right track 19 Unibersidad sa Sta. Mesa to show your worth will enhance your reputation and you can make money if you are willing to 20 Dating NAIA and bring possible advancement. Discuss your go out on a limb. Don’t make large purchases or 21 Analytical Graphics Inc. objectives with partners or peers. Educational investments. You can find solutions if you are 22 Uri ng ibon sa Brazil courses will be stimulating and successful. willing to communicate. 24 Bansa sa timog-kanlurang Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. bahagi ng Asya 25 Kitchie ng musika Aquarius Leo 26 Tatay (July 23-Aug 22) (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) You can enhance your reputation if you treat Try to spend some time on your own. 27 Batubalani: Ingles family and friends with respect and dignity. You Travel will lead you in new directions. You can 29 Sakit na nakakahawa will find it easy to learn and excel. It’s time to mesmerize anyone you meet with your cultured 30 Lunan sa Makati get yourself back on track. Get thinking about attitude and outlook. Don’t let those close to you 31 Kamatayan: Ingles prolonging longevity. get under your skin. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. PABABA 2 Asarol 11 Kaibigang babae 28 Diyos: Ingles Virgo Pisces 3 Binti ng baboy o baka 14 Minulan ng istorya 29 Ikaw (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 4 Ibon sa Australia 15 Pagtanggap sa nagawang If they don’t want to get involved, work Refrain from overspending on entertainment or by yourself. Opportunities may come up at luxury items. Take care of any pressing health 5 Avenida sa Makati kasalanan prestigious affairs. You have been going through problems. Put your money into a safe place that 6 Notang musikal 17 Kulungan ng hayop a period of change that has caused problems for will ensure a profit if you let it sit long enough. 7 Lugar sa Mindoro 20 Paos you with your loved ones. You can enjoy doing Make plans to meet again in the near future. 9 Haka 23 Uri ng pansit things that include children. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. 10 Tangay ng hangin sa lugar 24 Wakas Answers to this week’s Krosword Your lucky day this week will be Friday. na hindi dapat patunguhan 26 Ms. Curtis, artista on NEXT WEEK’S issue B6 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 entertainment Pauleen Sotto clarifies rumors about Maine Mark Bautista receives support from Mendoza: ‘I do not dislike Maine’ It seems Pauleen Luna herself! What I seriously do not meaning, nilalait nila si Ryzza Joanna Ampil on coming out Sotto has had enough of the understand is the fact that some (they are making fun of Ryzza).” concert).” rumors that bashers have been of you ‘think’ that,” added Sotto. Baby Talitha Maria is her Before the book was re- saying about her; she finally “Bakit kailangan niyo mag three-month old daughter with leased, she posted on social me- took to Twitter last night to imbento? (Why do you need to husband Vic “Bossing” Sotto. dia, “Amidst the noise and the address them with a series of make up things?) Again, we are Sotto added that she’s mad judgements by some people, I angry tweets. a family in Eat Bulaga!” because she believes children have the highest respect for you “Once and for all let me She also called on the bash- should be spared from people’s for being so brave and putting put this out in the open,” Sotto ers to stop forcing all of them hatred and scrutiny. She also your innermost being out there. started. “I DO NOT DISLIKE to fight because it will never vowed that if people continue You have my full support.” She admitted in the inter- view that she had heard rumors about his sexuality, but it was Bautista himself who told her. “I completely admire the (L-R) Joanna Ampil and Mark Bautista guy, you know, that he’s brave (Photo: www.pinoytvsho.ws) enough to expose himself in that way,” she said. Perhaps it’s a coincidence She shared in an exclusive While she’s worried about that Mark Bautista released a interview with the Philippine the bashing, she believes many memoir where he opens up on Entertainment Portal that he support his decision and “that’s his sexuality and is then appear- felt concerned about taking the what he should focus on.” ing in Joanna Ampil’s concert spotlight away from her after he Referring to the concert, titled “Love Wins.” admitted being bisexual in his she added, “This is more of a While the term “love wins” book “Beyond the Mark.” celebration of love, you know, was coined to celebrate the Bautista also revealed an we’re supporting each other legalization of same-sex mar- “intimate” sexual encounter here. We’re supporting our fel- riage, for Ampil it centers on with a man he did not name. low artists na nasa show.” making her dreams come true. She gave him words of reas- “Love Wins” begins at 8:30 Following the publicity surance: “‘It doesn’t matter. At p.m. at the BGC Arts Center in from Bautista’s coming out, she the end of the day, masaya ako Taguig city. (Nina V. Guno / doesn’t mind that the attention na makasama kita sa concert inquirer.net) could be diverted toward him. (I’m happy to be with you in the Julia Barretto cheers for Erich Gonzales’ ‘epic’ new TV series Julia Barretto offered her support for Erich Gonzales and (L-R) Pauleen Luna-Sotto, Maine Mendoza, and Alden Richards encouraged others to watch the (Photo: www.pinterest.co.uk) new series “The Blood Sisters” on television. A tweet from Barretto MAINE! I don’t know where happen. to put words in her mouth and showed her appreciation for some people got that idea. How “I’ve been on the show for say bad things about Ryzza Gonzales’ work. She wrote, I wish she would stay in the stu- 13 years so please take it from and Talitha, she will definitely “This will be epic. Congratula- dio so we could all be close!” me na pamilya kami doon (we report them to the National tions Erich! I know how much Sotto explained that she are a family there).” Bureau of Investigation. hard work you put into this.” and Mendoza just don’t get to “And lastly, leave my In the end, Sotto begged Barretto and Gonzales bond anymore unlike before, 3 month old daughter out people to stop the hate. “We share a deep bond of friendship since Mendoza makes the of this!!” Sotto called on. “I love Maine as much as we love that’s more like sisterhood. rounds of the baranggays for NEVER got mad at anyone who everyone else in the show. In one of her previous In- “Eat Bulaga”, while the rest of said Talitha looks like Ryzza! Please stop thinking otherwise. stagram posts, Barretto wrote, the hosts are in the studio in Stop inventing. Naiinis ako sa Peace [be] with you all and God “You’ve got my hand to hold, (L-R) Julia Barretto and Erich Gonzales Broadway Centrum in Quezon mga tao na nagsasabi na mag- bless you!” (Cody Cepeda / always. I love you.” (Photo: www.youtube.com) City. kamukha sila na may malice! inquirer.net) Gonzales reciprocated in “Hindi naman kailangan (I am annoyed at people saying her own account with, “Your kept me grounded, lifted my love you my soul sister.” (Alfred mangaway! (There’s no need they look alike, with malice.) friendship has helped me grow, spirit and brightened my life. I Bayle / inquirer.net) for a fight!) Maine said that Meaning, pag may sad face, February 15 - 21, 2018 FilAm Star B7 entertainment Tom would marry Carla now if he won the lotto ‘Queen of All Media’ Kris Aquino “My significant other is a super woman,” declared Tom Rodriguez as he described turns 47 on Valentine’s Day actress Carla Abellana, his Kris Aquino marked her 47th birthday president of the Philippines was 47 years old girlfriend of three years. today, and on Valentine’s Day too, no less, as too, the same age as Kris now, when they went Tom said Carla has always she is surprised by her two greatest loves, sons to Boston to live in exile. Kris said that now, been very supportive, no mat- Bimby and Josh, with a singing of the Happy her unquestionable work ethic is no longer ter what he wanted to do. “She Birthday Song and magenta balloons that a protective coat to erase in her psyche the would always indulge me. spelled the word “Mama”. wrong choices she’s made in the past, but a Instead of putting a cap on In a video shared by Aquino on Instagram legacy she wishes to leave for her children. me, she would encourage me four hours ago, Bimby and Josh can be seen “So that when Bimb is asked about his to spread my wings and fly.” entering the hotel room carrying the balloons Mom he will always be confident in answering He once told her that he as they started to sing to Aquino. In the end, that ‘She loves Kuya and me so much that’s wanted to make video games. why she works so hard,’” “The next day, she already had shared Kris. “‘But she’s a list of video game develop- also always there – it’s not ers in the Philippines for me like we ever feel that she’s to contact,” the actor said not around even if she’s during the press conference super busy.’” for his latest film, aptly titled Kris also expressed her “The Significant Other,” which utmost gratitude to God opens on Feb. 21. for giving her sons who “Always, I’d think of appreciate her today and something I want to do and make her look forward to she’d help me by coming up every single tomorrow. with references. I’m lucky. I “I am speaking w/ FI- can draw, write, explore and NALITY-these 2 boys are express myself,” the actor it for me. They are all the said. love, responsibility, and Three years into the rela- reassurance my existence tionship, Tom, 30, said he and shall ever need. They are Carla, 31, were already think- Carla Abellana (left) and Tom Rodriguez (right) my beginning & my end- ing of taking things to the next (Photo: www.weekendbalita.com) ing.” Image: Instagram/@ level. “That’s why I am work- krisaquino ing hard. I’m trying to diver- Sadly, Tom said he and Carla wouldn’t be “So now I return a sify, to branch out to my other passions so I able to celebrate Valentine’s Day together this prayer for all of you, that can save up for our future,” he pointed out. year. “She said ‘yes’ to work in Dubai thinking for my birthday in 2019 may my THANK YOU “There’s no question when it comes to the that I could go with her, but I wasn’t allowed. be on behalf of all those person I eventually want to settle down with. This was supposed to be our third Valentine Kris Aquino (Photo: www.filipinotimes.net) who need the gift of God’s In fact, I’d propose marriage to her now if I together.” underrated Grace,” Kris won the lotto. It’s really just building towards Tom said “The Significant Other,” which told her fans. “God bless that,” Tom said. “We don’t take it lightly, also stars Lovi Poe and Erich Gonzales, was Bimby teased his mom, saying the entire sur- us all with hearts fulfilled. Please remember as especially because of our personal experi- his boldest film so far. “I have done a lot of prise cost $76 (almost P4,000). I have the privilege to every day of my life, we ences.” (Carla’s parents separated when she firsts here. It’s my first with Direk Joel (La- On the night before her birthday, Aquino are all LOVED.” was young.) mangan), also my first with many intimate shared a blog post to her loyal fans, saying it And to that, her fans send out their amen. Tom related: “We used to consider get- scenes.” hasn’t always been the easiest. “You will never Happy birthday, Kris! (Cody Cepeda / in- ting married in Europe, but Carla wanted He added that Lovi is “one of my favor- read me complain about politics because I quirer.net) it here. I’m hoping that it will happen very ite people. I enjoy working with her because was born into a much worse situation, and I soon.” she’s so giving. On the set, we ended up know how exhilaration yet fleeting proximity While they were able to secure proper- doing things that weren’t in the script.” He to power is,” wrote Aquino. “I grew up to be ties for themselves before, Tom said their got goosebumps. “I didn’t feel drained doing unflinchingly REALISTIC about it – in a hole goal now is to build a home for their would- emotional scenes. Instead, I got an adrena- visit our website www.filamstar.com where everything was held together, seemingly line rush. If she wasn’t my partner, I wouldn’t be family. “I learned a lot from Carla, like effortlessly by my Mom. She had no choice- getting insurance. She explained the concept be able to bring that out of myself.” (Marinel that was her burden and our salvation.” CALL TO ADVERTISE 1-415-593-5955 X141 to me in a way that I was able to fully under- R. Cruz / inquirer.net) Cory Aquino, Kris’ mother and former stand it.” B8 FilAm Star February 15 - 21, 2018 entertainment GMA Pinoy TV partners with Philippine New Year fortune comes, Graton Resort & Casino Nurses Association of America’s Events is generous, gives out luxury gifts GMA Network’s flagship To welcome the New 4:30pm and 8:30pm on the as Twelve-time World Pizza international channel GMA Year, do you want to grasp an day of the slot tournament, a Champion Chef Tony Gemig- Pinoy TV provided full sup- opportunity of getting good free slot play will be rewarded. nani’s Tony’s Of North Beach, port to the recent back-to- fortune? 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