HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS PHILIPPINE NEWS GLOBAL NEWS inside look Fil-Com Center 5 P-Noy Orders 9 Aussie Couple 14 MAR. 19, 2011 Accepting Japan Assessment of Phl Survives Relief Donations Disaster Preparedness New Zealand Quake

H AWAII’ S O NLY W EEKLY F ILIPINO - A MERICAN N EWSPAPER TWO FILIPINO PROFESSIONALS WIN PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS

By Belinda A. AQUINO, Ph.D. wo leading professionals in the Filipino community recently received the 2011 “Best Awards” in their respective fields from the Honolulu Magazine and T Hawaii Business. Winners were chosen following a rigorous screening process consisting of peer reviews and survey responses.

Dr. Cecile D. Sebastian, the objective opinions of those who So congratulations to both of D.D.S. and Richard D. Pecson, should know—meaning one’s peers them. They are treasures not only in owner of Pecson and Associates, and colleagues in the profession. their professions but also in the both of Honolulu, were selected The survey for the Five Star larger Filipino and Hawaii commu- as the best in dentistry and finan- Awards was sponsored by the nity. cial planning, respectively. Se- Hawaii Business Magazine, which bastian was chosen by her peers, commissioned Minnesota-based CECILE D. SEBASTIAN while Pecson was selected based Crescendo Business Services to Sebastian is no stranger to on survey information from thou- undertake the survey. awards, distinctions and citations. sands of respondents for the Considering that Sebastian She has won the “Best Dentist” “2011 Five Star Wealth Manager and Pecson went through such award in previous years. This year, Award.” stringent and rigorous screening, she is one of only 165 dentists so The peer-review methodol- their awards should be renamed awarded in the whole state of ogy is considered a very effective “The Best of the Best,” because Hawaii. technique of selecting “the best in that’s really who they are—the best Drawing inspiration from her fa- Dr. Cecil D. Sebastian, D.D.S. and Richard D. Pecson the field” because it’s based on in their professions. (continued on page 4) Erap: GMA Should Be Tried First in Anomalies By Jose Rodel CLAPANO ANILA, Philippines - Former President Joseph Estrada believes former Presi- M dent Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo should be the first to be tried on the alleged anomalies in her administration. Estrada said Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez could not be completely blamed if her office has been unable to fully process Arroyo’s PAL Celebrates Milestone cases of wrongdoing. “The first one who should be tried is the 70th Anniversary mastermind or the architect of the corruption,” he said. Former President Joseph “Erap” Estrada By HFC Staff (continued on page 5)

hilippine Airlines (PAL) marked its cluded Consul General Leoncio Carde- HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE PRESORTED 70th anniversary with simple, yet nas, Philippine Air Force Military Attaché 94-356 WAIPAHU DEPOT RD., 2ND FLR. STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE P meaningful activities, including church Col. Restituto Padilla, Transportation Se- WAIPAHU, HI 96797 PAID masses held at the airline’s various do- curity Manager Olivier Jodloman, Edith HONOLULU, HI PERMIT NO. 9661 mestic and international facilities. Gudoy of Everlasting Services Inc., Rose PAL officials held a special mass at its Galanto of Aloha Tours & Travel, Mel sales/ticket office in Honolulu. Attendees in- (continued on page 4) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 2 MARCH 19, 2011 EDITORIAL Japan Quake a Reminder to Prepare Now for As a result, police were forced to drive into Emergency pockets of rural Oahu and use bullhorns to ur thoughts and prayers are with the alert individuals. Officers also went door-to- people of Japan, which last Friday suf- door urging to leave for higher ground. To en- O fered its worst earthquake ever. A sci- sure public safety in the event of another entific and technologically-advanced nation natural disaster, we urge city, state and fed- like Japan was relatively well-prepared for eral governments to prioritize and expedite the 9.0 quake, as evidenced by the number the installation of new civil defense sirens of tall buildings that by and large withstood and to repair and upgrade existing sirens on the violent shaking. Tens of thousands of Oahu. lives, if not more, would have been lost if not With the state avoiding large-scale for the nation’s earthquake-proof structures. tsunami damage for the most part, the ten- What the Japanese people were unprepared dency now may be for Hawaii residents to for was the 23-foot high wall of water that brush off the next warning and tune out, swept miles inland and wreaked destruction. rather than tune in. Let’s avoid making that The calamity in Japan left many of us costly mistake and start thinking NOW about wondering what would happen if a similar disaster preparedness. What will happen to natural disaster hit our shores. If one were your pets during the next emergency? Does to hit, we would be in a world of hurt. It would your family have an emergency plan? Have take several days for relief efforts just to you decided a central meeting place? Do you reach us, given our extreme isolation. have at least three days of food, water and necessary medications stored State and County civil defense officials and emergency coordinators in case of an emergency? For help with these questions and other help- during the fateful evening/morning of March 10-11 did an admirable job in ful tips on emergency preparedness, go online and visit: evacuating residents out of harm’s way. However, there is still room for im- http://www.ready.gov/. provement. One problem that definitely needs to be addressed is the Very few people enjoy discussing such matters, but more households handful of emergency sirens on Oahu that conspicuously failed to work. need to have this conversation—before they need it.

Wednesday, focused on the country’s “robust growth, stubborn poverty.” Challenge Over a third of the country’s population, according to the report, did not feel usiness optimism has reached a new all-time high, according to a the benefits of economic growth. survey conducted by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas. Let’s hope the About 3.3 million Filipinos were added to the ranks of the impover- B optimism will translate into more investments, particularly the type ished from 2003 to 2009, raising the total to 23.1 million or about 26.5 that will generate jobs and other livelihood opportunities. percent of the population, according to the report. One positive aspect Continuing business optimism, boosted by the rise to power of a man noted by the World Bank is that the poverty gap also narrowed during the who won the presidency on an anti-corruption platform, was one of the same period as the government expanded the conditional cash transfer causes for celebration as the nation marked the 25th anniversary of the program to the poorest families. The program, backed by the WB, is 1986 people power revolt. Through the tumultuous years of rebuilding the being further expanded by the Aquino administration not only in terms of nation and nurturing a fragile democracy, the Philippines managed to coverage but also in encouraging beneficiaries to engage in sustainable achieve economic growth. Last year, the economy posted its highest livelihood activities. growth in 34 years of 7.3 percent, on the back of sound monetary and fis- Dole-outs, even if conditional, can only go so far. The government cal policies, a recovery in manufacturing and exports, and election spend- needs to further stimulate domestic economic activity and attract more for- ing. eign direct investment to create decent employment and livelihood oppor- The seemingly insurmountable challenge is making the benefits of tunities. Twenty-five years after the people power revolt, the nation must growth trickle down to the grassroots. A World Bank report, released last stage another type of revolution, one that will make the masses enjoy the fruits of economic growth and lift millions out of poverty. (www.philstar.com) HAWAII-PHILIPPINE NEWS EDITION Contributing Writers Advertising/Marketing Director Columnists Belinda Aquino, Ph.D., Clement Bautista, Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Charlie Y. SONIDO, M.D. Carlota Ader Teresita Bernales, Ed.D., Linda Dela Cruz, Publisher and Executive Editor Carlo Cadiz, M.D. Fiedes Doctor, Gregory Bren Garcia, Danny de Account Executives Mayor Peter Carlisle Gracia II, M.A., Amelia Jacang, M.D., Caroline Carlota Ader Chona A. Sen. Will Espero Julian, Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D., Glenn Wakai J. P. Orias MONTESINES-SONIDO Grace F. Fong, Ed.D. Creative Designer Big Island Distributor Publisher and Managing Editor Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. Junggoi Peralta J. P. Orias Grace Larson Dennis GALOLO Pacita Saludes Philippine Correspondent Ditas Udani Edwin QUINABO Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. Guil Franco Charlie Sonido, M.D. Maui Distributor Associate Editors Photographer Cecile Piros Emmanuel S. Tipon,Esq. Tim Llena Randall SHIROMA Felino S. Tubera Amado Yoro Administrative Assistant Molokai Distributor Design Consultant Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. Shalimar Pagulayan Maria Watanabe

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HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 3 EGISLATIVE CONNECTION L Kulani Correctional Facility, with the emphasis on once again provide reduction in their minimum sen- participation in or availability of re- sex offender treatment rehabilita- Crossover tence and the reasons for denials; quired re-entry programs; and tion services, and to re-transfer and (g) have their parole revoked, whether the inmate has regular vis- here those inmates who should correctional facilities; mental health and explanations for the results. its with his/her children. participate in its corrective pro- services for committed persons; This data will reflect progress to- gram. This re-opening is warranted gender-responsive community- ward (1) reducing the rate of recidi- SB 1357, Return of Mainland because (1) Kulani’s sex offender based programs for women; cogni- vism; (2) decreasing prisoner Inmates. Directs the Department of treatment services were highly tive restructuring programs; assaults on correctional staff; (3) Public Safety to develop a master rated nationally; (2) we need more programs relating to children of in- reducing correctional staff turnover; plan for the return of Hawaii in- beds in Hawaii for inmates; and (3) carcerated persons. The report, and (4) improving departmental ef- mates housed in mainland prisons. living in familiar surroundings and by Senator Will ESPERO however, does not include man- ficiencies in staffing, budgeting, and About 15 years ago, over- in proximity to supportive relatives agement-type information. This bill data management and analysis. crowding in our prisons due to in- enhances inmates’ rehabilitative he Legislature is at Crossover, would require the DPS to begin col- sufficient space in-state led to the potential. As the Legislature found, the halfway point and deadline lecting and reporting data to meas- SB 48, Inmate Transfers. decision to house inmates in main- “[s]uccessful rehabilitation eventu- T for a chamber to decide on ure the effectiveness of the Specifies criteria for transfers of land prisons. Families are sepa- ally results in lower recidivism and bills that originated in it. As Chair programs in rehabilitating inmates. prisoners from Hawaii to the main- rated. It can be harder for inmates lower costs.” of the Senate Committee on Public Through the use of key perform- land. Prohibits transfer to the main- to prepare to re-enter the commu- Safety, during the interim between ance indicators, both the DPS and land of inmates who are within 12 nity without family support. This bill SB 166, Clean and Sober sessions, I worked with the Depart- the Legislature can evaluate pro- months of eligibility for parole. will require the DPS to develop a Home and Halfway House Task ment of Public Safety (DPS), gram effectiveness. This outcomes Mainland transfers are a con- master plan and timetable for bring- Force. Establishes a task force for groups who work with prisoners data will help the Department as- cern in the corrections system. Re- ing Hawaii’s inmates back to regulating clean and sober homes and ex-offenders, and other stake- sess program strengths and weak- habilitation programs are not Hawaii. This plan includes deter- and halfway houses. holders to develop bills in this area. nesses to optimize its rehabilitative uniformly available at all facilities, mining the logistics for increasing Ex-offenders who have served These bills were approved by the efforts. The report will be posted on so transfers can disrupt an inmate’s prison space and local availability their terms and are dealing with the Senate and will move on to the the Department’s website. treatment, education, vocational of intervention and rehabilitation stress of trying to lead a productive House for its consideration. The data collected will include training, or other re-entry program programs. We currently spend life after prison and maintain sobri- SB 44, Inmate Rehabilita- information on how many inmates participation. For many inmates about $60 million to care for pris- ety need the support of a stable tion. Requires the Department of (a) earn their general education family support is important, and oners out of the state, and those home environment. Balanced Public Safety to establish and re- diploma or equivalent; (b) have a being on the mainland makes this funds would be better spent here. against that is the concern in com- port on key performance indicators re-entry plan prepared for them; (c) extremely difficult. Currently there The plan is due to the Legislature munities regarding having these for the inmate reentry system. fail drug tests while incarcerated or are no standards for transfer deci- by January 2012. “next step” houses nearby. This bill Each year the Department of on parole; (d) complete a drug sions, so this bill establishes trans- would create a task force to ad- Public Safety reports to the Legis- treatment plan; (e) complete the fer criteria. The decision should SB 1358 Reopening of Ku- dress the needs of both communi- lature on a number of items: men- restorative circles program; (f) take into account whether there are lani Correctional Facility. Re- ties and residents of these facilities, tal health services at certain apply for, receive, or are denied a volunteers for transfer; the current quires the Department of Public and develop procedures and proto- Safety to, by 12/31/2011, develop a cols for accountability of these plan to reopen Kulani Correctional homes without formal licensure. EDITORIAL Facility and implement transfers. Near the end of 2009, the Ku- SB 49, Correctional Facility lani Correctional Facility on the Big Deaths. Requires the Department Mourning Island was closed. Its approxi- of Public Safety to report to the mately 120 inmates were trans- Legislature any inmate or correc- ferred to the Halawa Correctional tional facility employee death within he official death toll in Japan Facility, the federal detention cen- 48 hours. soared to 2,800 last night, as ter in Honolulu, or to mainland pris- T disaster teams reported find- ons. Kulani was the corrections SB 52, Sex Offender Regis- ing 2,000 bodies in Miyagi pre- center specifically designated for tration. Requires persons con- the treatment of sex offenders. Its victed of violation of privacy in the fecture, one of the worst hit by the treatment programs have been first degree to register as sex of- cataclysmic tsunami spawned by found to be one of the most suc- fenders. Individuals who use cam- the Magnitude 9 earthquake that cessful in the country. eras and video records secretly and struck the country’s northeastern This bill would require the DPS improperly for sexual content would to formulate a plan to reopen the be labeled sexual offenders. region last week. The port town of Minamisanriku has been erased from the map, with some 10,000 of its population of 17,500 unaccounted for. evacuated from the power plant site. In high-tech Japan, the grievous loss Video footage showed little visible and devastation have been documented in movement after the tsunami had done its terrifying detail. There were the walls shak- worst, raising the possibility that the death ing for an interminable time, and then the toll, even for a country used to great suf- items literally flying off supermarket fering, would be horrific. In the midst of shelves. Then the massive wall of water tragedy, the Japanese have shown re- roared in with the speed of a jet, like a markable calm. As younger survivors said, scene from a Hollywood movie, engulfing their elders have seen worse during World farms, and bringing ships, light aircraft and War II, when their country became the first cars smashing into homes and office build- – and still the only one – to see two cities ings. obliterated by atomic bombs. With utilities down, another nightmare Young and old, the Japanese of 2011 confronted the Japanese: the meltdown of have gone about the grim task of finding reactors after cooling systems bogged missing loved ones and surviving from day down at the nuclear power plant in to day in an orderly way. Occasionally, Fukushima prefecture. Explosions have some survivors are shown quietly grieving, rocked two of the reactors so far, and sev- and there is no doubt that sorrow has eral workers have been rushed to hospitals gripped the entire land. We mourn their after being exposed to radiation. Survivors loss and wish Japan a speedy recovery. of the earthquake and tsunami have been (www.philstar.com/March 15, 2011) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 4 HEADLINES (CONT.) MARCH 19, 2011

(cont. from page 1; TWO FILIPINO ... ) temperament. Patients are some- reer at AXA in 1988 and in 2002, he is another tribute to his competence Philippines Alumni Association in ther who was a medical surgeon, times afraid of dentists and their established his own firm, Pecson & and versatility. Academically-trained Hawaii, chair of the Filipino Coalition she got interested in science and dreaded drills and other intimidating Associates, LLC, which is affiliated as an agriculturist and resource for Solidarity, a strong supporter of surgery at an early age. She mi- instruments. But with Sebastian’s with LPL Financial, the largest inde- economist, his success in the world the Aloha Medical Mission and the grated to the U.S. with her family “gift of touch,” they can rest assured pendent broker-dealer in the coun- of finance becomes even more re- Philippine Medical Association of when she was only 15 and gradu- that their stay in her dental chair will try. Today, his firm has grown to markable. Hawaii Foundation, and as a mem- ated from Purdue University with a be a pleasant experience, not a managing a considerable portfolio in When asked what his basic ber of Grace Bible Church. B.S. in biology. She later attended treatment in torture. the medical profession. philosophy is in his profession, he Pecson and his wife Greta Northwestern University Dental She is married to Dr. Wade Pecson originally hails from answered that he tries to anchor his have three sons. Greta, daughter-in- School where she earned her Doc- Nobuhara, fellow “Best Dentist” Tuguegarao, Cagayan in the north- financial planning practice on the law Michelle and Ron Gregorio all tor of Dental Surgery (DDS) degree. awardee, with whom she has four ern Philippines. He obtained his highest levels of integrity, trust and work as a team with Richard to run Sebastian has consistently children. Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from service. He believes that these val- Pecson and Associates. achieved top awards and distinc- the University of the Philippines in ues reflect the fundamental princi- tions recognizing her talent and RICHARD D. PECSON Los Banos in 1975. He worked with ples of his deeply-rooted faith, which CONCLUSION skills. In addition to her award this Pecson, who owns Pecson and the Development Academy of the is his guiding light in the pursuit of We cannot but feel proud of year, she has received similar Associates, LLC, also brought home Philippines as Project Officer han- his career. and honored by the top-of-the-line awards over the years from such or- the bacon by winning one of the dling countryside development pro- Pecson is regularly invited as a performance of these two super- ganizations as Best Cosmetic Doc- 2011 “Five Star” Awards for his ex- grams. guest lecturer at UH-Manoa and achievers. As successful and tal- tors of America; Better Business pertise as a financial planner. For He emigrated to the United Hawaii Pacific University to en- ented practitioners of their craft, they Bureau Torch Awards (individual this special award, the survey uti- States in 1982 when he received a lighten students on the intricacies of have set an exemplary standard as business); and Top High Tech lized the following criteria: customer research assistantship at the Uni- investment and estate planning role models for younger generations Leader Awards from Technology service, integrity, knowledge and ex- versity of Hawaii-Manoa under Dr. courses they are taking. He is a of Filipinos and Filipino-Americans Network and Pacific Technology pertise, communication, value for James Brewbaker, a well-known popular speaker who has earned in- in Hawaii. Foundation. fee charged, meeting of financial ob- Professor of Horticulture. He later dustry-wide recognition for providing Their examples have estab- Her community service is jectives, post-sale service, quality of received his Master’s in agronomy outstanding service to his clients lished a trend for the infusion of tal- equally impressive. She has been recommendations and overall satis- and soil science in 1985 and an- and various seminars and inter- ent to the rapidly growing Filipino on the Board of the National Foun- faction. The business specialties other MS in agricultural economics views on a wide range of financial community in Hawaii, which can dation of Dentistry for the Handi- surveyed were: business planning, with a grant from the Pacific-Asian topics. only contribute tremendously to the capped for the past 10 years. Her estate planning, financial planning, Scholarship Program. He continues to be active in development of the community as a office also partners with Patterson investments, taxation and trust serv- The fact that Pecson shifted community affairs, having served as major player in Hawaii’s multicultural Dental Supply to host the annual ices. professional fields with relative ease president of the University of the society in years to come. “Future Dentists” symposium, a free But what exactly is a wealth (cont. from page 1; PAL ... ) According to Monet Trespeses, dustry to flag a potential loss for car- event for high school juniors and manager? Broadly defined, wealth Danglapin of Panda Travel, Jayson District Sales Manager for PAL in riers by the end of 2011. In fact, the seniors. managers are those individuals who Agustin of Diplomat Tours & Travel Hawaii, there are no plans to in- International Air Transport Associa- Sebastian delivers lectures to help you manage your financial and Henry Ou of Air & Sea Travel. crease the number of flights from tion (IATA) already downgraded its business and community groups on world and/or implement aspect of In the Philippines, PAL officials Honolulu to Manila. Still, the Aloha outlook for the year. various topics on dentistry and dental your financial strategies. Examples hosted a gala anniversary reception State will continue to figure promi- “Our current forecast is based care. She has also worked with the are financial planners, tax or invest- at the Newport Performing Arts The- nently in PAL’s future plans. on an average oil price of $84 per Hawaii Food Bank to promote dental ment advisors and estate planning ater at the Resorts World Manila “With the Filipino population barrel,” says IATA director general awareness and helps with fundrais- attorneys. complex in Pasay City. In atten- known to be the second largest eth- Giovanni Bisignani. “Today, the price ing activities for the organization. With over 7,000 wealth man- dance were some 1,500 guests and nic group in Hawaii and continuing is over $100. For every dollar it in- Her outstanding contributions agers in the state of Hawaii, the dignitaries from government, the to grow yearly, it is considered as creases, the industry is challenged diplomatic corps, as well as the avi- to the community, notably her vol- choice of Pecson as one of the Best PAL’s number one market,” says to recover $1.6 billion in additional ation, travel and business sectors. A Trespeses. costs, so 2011 has started out as a unteer work as a dentist, have been Awardees is a distinct honor, con- host of entertainers—led by Gary PAL has managed to remain very challenging year for airlines.” featured in many publications, in- sidering that the short list of candi- Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Kuh competitive, despite stiff competition cluding the Good Neighbor section dates for the coveted 2011 Five Star Ledesma, among others—partici- from other airlines that also fly to SUPPORT FROM of Midweek Magazine in March Wealth Managers is an elite group pated in a star-studded and nostal- and from the Philippines. KABABAYANS 2010. representing less than four percent gic program that portrayed PAL’s “Our biggest asset is our peo- Still, there’s no denying that Sebastian’s professional ex- of the wealth managers in the State first seven decades of service. ple and the product itself. All the way the majority of Hawaii’s Filipinos pertise is enhanced by her engag- of Hawaii. from the ground staff; cabin crew continue to choose PAL whenever ing personality and cheerful Pecson started his financial ca- A GLORIOUS PAST and pilots up to the management returning home to the Philippines. PAL was founded by a group who are all committed to provide ut- According to Trespeses, several of prominent Filipino industrialists most service combined with the factors may contribute to PAL’s on February 26, 1941. On March popularly known Filipino hospitality,” popularity including, bigger Airbus 15, 1941, a tiny Beech Model 18 Trespeses says. 340 aircraft that provide comfort to aircraft carrying five passengers passengers, particularly in busi- took off from Nielson Airport in FUTURE CHALLENGES ness class; hot meals served on- Makati bound for Baguio—earning The flag carrier is bidding to board, including snacks; PAL the distinction of being Asia’s replicate its past success in the hassle-free transfers to domestic first airline. more demanding operating and flights via PAL’s exclusive inte- PAL’s first flight to Honolulu was competitive landscape of the future. grated terminal at Ninoy Aquino In- 65 years ago in July 1946 when it It faces a slate of tough challenges ternational Airport; and numerous started commercial service to San in this quest. destinations throughout the Philip- Francisco via Honolulu. PAL earned PAL reported a modest profit of pines the world. yet another distinction as the first $15.1 million in the third quarter (Oc- “We fly to 20 points across the Asian airline to cross the Pacific. tober to December 2010) of its cur- Philippines, deploying the largest As PAL turns 70, the airline will rent 2010-2011 financial year—a capacity and only premium-class continue to keep one eye on the period when air travel gingerly re- service in the domestic market,” legacies of its past and another on covered from a slump the previous Trepeses says. “PAL is also the its future goals. Since its founding year. major Philippine Flag carrier to the 70 years ago, PAL has been inex- But the succeeding months world, flying to 25 destinations in 14 tricably linked with the Filipino na- from January 2011 to the present, countries and territories across Asia, tion as the pioneer flag carrier, showed just how fragile the recov- Australia and North America. On major air transport utility and loyal ery was. The sudden eruption of po- March 29, we are touching down on partner in nation-building. litical unrest in the Middle East sent our 26th international point in New Currently, PAL flies three times crude oil prices skyrocketing to Delhi, India. a week direct from Honolulu to nearly $120 per barrel in late Febru- “I believe that PAL will continue Manila every Tuesday, Thursday ary 2011—the highest in two and a to enjoy support from our and Saturday and also flies out of half years. kababayans because of these ad- Manila on the same days. This forced the global airline in- vantages.” HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS 5 Tsunami Relief Efforts: Do Research Before Giving • Don’t give into excessive pres- well-established building repair to Charities, Hiring Repair Crews sure for on-the-spot donations. companies will be working their Be suspicious of any request to crews around the clock,” says IN WAKE OF THE MOST POW- says Dwight Kealoha, CEO of tsunami. Although well inten- send a “runner” to pick up your Kealoha. “Some people don’t want ERFUL EARTHQUAKE to ever Hawaii’s BBB. “Unfortunately, there tioned, they may be unable to contribution. to wait for estimates on repairs, so hit Japan, many residents may feel are those who will try to take advan- quickly deliver aid to victims. • Be wary of appeals that are when there is a knock on the door compelled to help those impacted tage of the generosity of the public • Be wary of charities that are re- long on emotion, but short on from a repair crew, good consumer by the earthquake and ensuing after a disaster. That’s why it’s so luctant to answer reasonable describing what the charity will and business practices are some- tsunami. important to do your research before questions about their opera- do to address the needs of vic- times forgotten.” Hawaii’s Better Business Bu- donating your hard-earned money tions, finances and programs. tims and their families. Checking with the BBB on the reau (BBB) is warning potential to relief efforts.” • Ask for written information • Don’t give your credit card reliability of a company can provide donors to exercise caution when Hawaii’s BBB offers the follow- about the charity’s programs number or other personal infor- valuable information on its history, making donations to relief agencies ing advice for donors to ensure their and finances such as their lat- mation to a telephone solicitor including whether the company is a and charities—and to wary of scams donations go to trustworthy relief ef- est annual report and financial or in response to an e-mail so- BBB Accredited Business; informa- by traveling repair crews offering forts: statements. licitation. tion its principal officers; business emergency repair services. • Before donating, visit • Don’t give cash. Checks or • Make sure your contribution is start date; number of complaints; As with every natural disaster, www.bbb.org/charity to re- money orders should be made tax deductible. Donations and what to do if you experience a there are dishonest people who will search organizations you’re out to the name of the charita- should be made to charitable problem. take advantage of the public’s will- considering supporting. ble organization, not to the indi- organizations that are tax ex- The BBB offers the following ingness to help victims. • Be suspicious of any charity vidual collecting the donation. empt under section 501(c)(3) of tips on how to avoid being the victim “In the wake of any major natu- that is inexperienced in carrying • Beware of fake charities that the Internal Revenue Code. Go of a “fly-by-night” repair crew: ral disaster, many people will imme- out relief efforts but is suddenly imitate the name and style of to IRS Publication 78 on the • Check with the company’s his- diately step forward with donations soliciting aid in the wake of the well-known organizations in an IRS’ website for a current list of tory by getting a Reliability Re- to aid victims and their families,” Japan earthquake and attempt to confuse donors. all organizations eligible to re- port from Hawaii’s BBB. ceive contributions deductible • Avoid conducting business with as charitable gifts. crews that offer unsolicited Fil-Com Center Accepting Donations help. Scammers also prey on victims’ • Ask for proof of contractor’s li- for Japan Quake Victims urgency to get life back to normal in cense and insurance coverage. the aftermath of natural disasters. • Ask for identification such as IN THE SPIRIT OF BAYANIHAN, the Filipino “As a Fil-Com Board member for many years, I’ve Traveling repair crews have been driver’s license. Do not accept Community Center will be accepting donations for vic- seen the many generous relief funds for aid to the known to offer unsolicited emer- business cards or name tims of Japan’s recent earthquake and tsunami on Philippines,” Arakaki says. “I am humbled by this effort gency repair services to homeown- badges as identification. Saturday, March 19, 2011 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in to help survivors of the catastrophic conditions which ers and businesses following these • Never pay in advance. Waipahu. will go on for a long time.” types of events. Fil-Com board members and volunteers will be on- Watching the tragic events of the past few days “These repair crews know that For additional information, visit hand to accept the donations. Those who want to do- unfold on television has been heart-wrenching for many demand will be high and that local, www.bbb.org. nate can do so in person or by mailing checks payable in the Filipino community, including to the Fil-Com Center to: Kalihi resident Rhea Ruiz. She has vowed to do her part to help those in The Filipino Community Center, Inc. Japan who are suffering from the ca- 94-428 Mokuola Street, tastrophe. Suite 302 “How can anyone sit idly without Waipahu, Hawaii 96707 doing anything to help?” she says. “I hope others will have the compas- Fil-Com officials are asking donors to note “Japan sion in their heart to give what they Disaster Relief” at the bottom left corner of their checks. can because it will come back to “Our hearts go out to the people of Japan,” says you. When we ourselves will be in Abelina Madrid Shaw, chair of the Fil-Com Center need, others will come to our aid.” Board. “At this time of need, we cannot do enough. Contributions will be accepted Along with donations, the Fil-Com Center, Filipino or- daily at the Fil-Com Center through ganizations and the Filipino community in Hawaii are March 31st between 9 a.m. to 5 offering our prayers for Japan.” p.m., including Saturdays and Sun- Scott Arakaki, fundraising chair of the Japan Dis- days. All donations will be given to aster Relief for the Fil-Com Board of Directors, is grate- the Japanese Red Cross via the ful for the outpouring of support. American Red Cross. HEADLINES (CONT.)

(cont. from page 1; ERAP...) evidence if it was already conveniently lost Estrada said Gutierrez was unable to by those involved in the Arroyo administra- find sufficient evidence because Arroyo ad- tion?” ministration officials had already disposed of Estrada said the Senate must go after or hidden important evidence. the brains behind the anomalies. The impeachment complaints against “They should try GMA and the (former) Gutierrez stress her failure or refusal to act first gentleman (referring to Mike Arroyo) be- on big cases like the P728-million fertilizer cause the government must first go after the fund scam and the botched $329-million brains behind these anomalies,” he said. NBN-ZTE deal, he added. Estrada said Gutierrez, who was just Estrada said in the anomalous NBN-ZTE used, is fortunate because she was given broadband deal, the signatories hid the con- due process by Congress. tract from the public on the unbelievable pre- “Unlike my impeachment, which was text that it was stolen in China. railroaded by (then Senate President Manny) “(Senate President Pro-Tempore) Jing- Villar,” he said. goy (Estrada) even had to insist the Chinese Estrada said he believes Gutierrez will executives surrender the contracts,” he said. receive a fair trial at the Senate if an im- “Even the Senate could not acquire the peachment trial pushes through because evidence from the Arroyo administration offi- “senators have independent minds and can- cials. How would the Ombudsman find the not be dictated upon.” (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 6 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS MARCH 19, 2011 Hawaii Meth Project Launches Fundraising Campaign THE HAWAII METH PROJECT rectly in the prevention effort if we are biggest drug problem in Hawaii and Project to build on the success of Meth Project and its core message, HAS LAUNCHED a fundraising to break the multi-generational im- that its use is the most significant last year’s statewide awareness “Not Even Once,” are being spear- campaign to raise funds for its pre- pact of this drug in Hawaii, which is driver of crime across the state. and community action plan, which headed by individuals who are or- vention programs that focus on re- why we are so very grateful for the “This problem can only be extended the reach of the Hawaii ganizing their own fundraisers. ducing meth use among Hawaii’s generous support from local busi- tackled by focusing simultaneously Meth Project’s message and en- “It is critical that we not get teens and young adults. nesses, foundations and individuals.” on prevention, enforcement and gaged teens and families through- complacent with our outreach,” To kick off the campaign, the The singular distinguishing treatment,” he says. “I’ve seen the out the state in prevention efforts. Adams says. “This fundraising Hawaii Meth Project announced issue about meth is its pervasive im- positive results that the Meth Proj- Bank of Hawaii Foundation campaign will help ensure the pro- several significant donations from pact on Hawaii’s family structure ect has achieved in Montana since President Donna Tanoue com- gram has the resources to continue charitable foundations and local and children, education, employers, the program was launched there in mends the Hawaii Meth Project for to educate our teens about the dan- businesses, and individual contri- all facets of health and human serv- 2005 and we’re already seeing re- educating teenagers and young gers of meth and prevent them butions from supporters in the com- ices, law enforcement and the judi- sults in Hawaii in the program’s first adults about meth. She encour- from trying it.” munity, totaling $732,278. ciary system. Donating to the Hawaii year here. It is imperative that we ages other businesses to join in the If you are interested in donat- “Many people in Hawaii know Meth Project helps to mitigate the continue to support the Hawaii efforts to fight meth use in Hawaii. ing to the Hawaii Meth Project, go first-hand the devastation that meth enormous cost of downstream im- Meth Project if we are to stop the Others have begun to mobilize their online to: https://www.hawaiimeth- use causes families,” says Cindy plications which are estimated at next generation from falling into the own initiatives, demonstrating a project.org/Take_Action/. Checks Adams, executive director of the $500 million each year. grips of this devastating drug.” genuine grassroots effort to fight can also be sent to: Hawaii Meth Hawaii Meth Project. “It is important Honolulu Prosecutor Keith This year’s fundraising cam- meth. Initiatives to fundraise and Project, 999 Bishop St., 24th floor, that the community participate di- Kaneshiro says crystal meth is the paign will enable the Hawaii Meth raise awareness for the Hawaii Honolulu, HI 96813.

in Hawaii.” firmation this legislative session. Abercrombie Signs Accountability Governor Abercrombie has He encourages those interested in until April 1, 2011 to submit his serving on the BOE and other in Public Education Bill nominees for boards and commis- boards to apply online at: sions to the State Senate for con- www.hawaii.gov/gov. GOV. NEIL ABERCROMBIE public schools,” Abercrombie says. five largest private sector employ- HAS SIGNED INTO LAW a bill “In first voting for an appointed ers combined. that gives the governor more ac- Board of Education and then pass- Abercrombie is looking for tal- UH Ethnic Studies countability over Hawaii’s public ing this measure in such an expedi- ented and dedicated leaders com- education by establishing the tious manner, the people of Hawaii mitted to public education and Group to Present process for an appointed State and the State Legislature cleared Hawaii’s future. He is reviewing ap- Board of Education (BOE). the way for a new era of leadership plications submitted through the SB 8 SD1 HD2 sets up the for our public school system.” governor’s website and will appoint ‘Voices of Color’ process for the governor to appoint In November 2010, voters ap- diverse individuals with varying THE ETHNIC STUD- Unknowns. The event will the nine members of the BOE— proved a constitutional amendment skills, talent and experience. IES STUDENT AS- be hosted by Seph1. three from Oahu, three at large and to switch from an elected board to “We continue to welcome SOCIATION (ESSA) Pre-sale tickets are $8. one each from the Big Island, Maui an appointed one. every person interested in serving at the University of Tickets at the door will be and Kauai. Abercrombie will also The BOE oversees the De- on the Board of Education to Hawai-Manoa will $10. To order your presale select the chairperson. All mem- partment of Education (DOE), apply,” Abercrombie says. “We host “Voices of Color,” tickets, please contact ES- bers will need to be confirmed by which has a $1.7 billion operational need to move quickly and have an a fundraiser that will [email protected]. the State Senate. budget. The DOE is one of the appointed Board of Education in showcase the work of ESSA is a student or- “The future of our children and state’s largest organizations with place so we can move forward on multidisciplinary ganization from multidisci- state depends on the success of our more employees than the state’s bringing change to public education artists whose work plinary backgrounds that centers around works in collaboration with themes of identity, culture, sexual- UH-Manoa’s Ethnic Studies Depart- ity and other socio-political issues. ment to promote awareness and in- The event is scheduled for terest in Ethnic Studies, its major March 18, 2011 from 8 p.m. to 1:30 and certificate programs, and other a.m. at Blue Ocean Thai Restau- academic events promoted by the rant located at 327 Keawe Street department. in Kakaako. The purpose of this ESSA also functions independ- event is to raise funds for ESSA ently to bring enjoyable social activ- and provide a supportive space for ities and events that allow students artists to voice their own unique and the community to interact with narratives and a chance to sell and engage in a dialogue about cul- their own work. ture, identity and socio-political is- “Voices of Color” will be an 18 sues that are explored in ES and over fundraiser that will feature courses and in everyday life. Hawaii’s hottest local hip hop and For more information about rap artists, including Creed ESSA or “Voices of Color”, please Chameleon, Prie, Ill Hill Society, and contact Camille Cabalo at Cmca- K-Luv and Big Mox of the Prolific [email protected]. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 IMMIGRATION GUIDE 7 “Sham/Green Card” Marriage – Is It

tered into for immigration pur- ing the validity of the Defense of VA. App. No. 1545-08-4 (2009). Valid? poses. It did not mean that their Marriage Act (DOMA) providing erly man can still be attracted to a marriage was void. They might call that a marriage is between a man (ATTY. TIPON has a Master of woman, whether or not he can still it a sham sham marriage, but that and a woman. (Whether it is an im- Laws degree from Yale Law School perform the marital function. They does not affect its validity. Immi- peachable offense to refuse to ful- and a Bachelor of Laws degree from dated, fell in love, married, and gration authorities have no power fill a President’s oath to faithfully the University of the Philippines. He lived in his home in the Philip- to declare a marriage void. That is execute the Office of President is practices in Hawaii, specializing in by Atty. Emmanuel pines. The veteran returned to the a function of the civil courts. another story.) immigration law and criminal de- U.S., petitioned his wife, and it was The lawyer advised the vet- The alien died in an industrial fense. Tel. (808) 225-2645. E-Mail: Samonte TIPON approved. eran to seek reconsideration. “It’s accident. The Workers’ Compen- [email protected]. Website: The wife applied for a visa. not necessary,” he said, “I’m going sation Commission awarded de- www.ImmigrationServicesUSA.com. hen the spouse of a U.S. She asked for an Ilocano inter- home to be with her, she’s still my pendent benefits to his widow. The He is from Laoag City and Magsin- citizen or lawful perma- preter but was given a Tagalog wife.” The veteran is now in the employer challenged the award, gal, Ilocos Sur. He served as an Im- W nent resident is told you one. She did not understand the Philippines living happily with his contending that their marriage was migration Officer. He is co-author of have “no petitionable relationship,” questions and her answers were wife in their own home, compared illegal and void because it was a “Immigration Law Service, 1st ed.” does it mean that the marriage is not responsive. The consul denied to the one bedroom they would “sham green-card marriage.” The an 8-volume practice guide for im- not valid? the visa saying she had “no peti- have shared in Hawaii. Some court held that the marriage was a migration officers and lawyers. Lis- This question was asked by a tionable relationship.” might say “Hindi bale, Hawaii legal marriage. Neither the alien ten to the most funny, witty, and Filipino WW II veteran, recipient of An immigration herbolario naman”. (Never mind, it’s Hawaii”.) nor his wife had been convicted of useful radio program in Hawaii on a Purple Heart, who was natural- (“consultant”) told him that the violating a federal law, 8 USC § KNDI at 1270, AM dial every Tues- ized under a law sponsored by marriage was a sham and void. ILLEGAL ALIEN’S WIDOW 1325(c) penalizing sham/green day at 7:30 a.m. and on KHBC at Congressman Tom Campbell that The veteran spoke with a lawyer STILLA WIFE card marriages. Even if they were, 1060, AM dial every Thursday at 8 we drafted. He was an 80 some- with a successful track record of A male illegal alien married a the federal statute does not ad- p.m. This article is a general thing widower while his wife was a overcoming visa denials of the U.S. citizen. Of course the citizen dress the question of the validity of overview of the subject matter dis- 60 something never been married. spouses of elderly men. The was a woman, stupid. The federal the marriage, but only the intent cussed and is not intended as legal They had met at an Iglesia Ni lawyer told him that the words government does not recognize with which the parties entered into advice. No warranty is made by the Cristo (Church of Christ) gathering meant that his wife could not es- gay marriage, even though the the marriage. No federal statute writer or publisher as to its com- in the Philippines. He was at- tablish that their marriage was Obama administration announced says the marriage itself is illegal. pleteness or correctness at the time tracted to her. Yes, ma’am, an eld- genuine and that it was not en- it would not defend suits challeng- Marblex Design Intern. v. Stevens, of publication.) HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS DOH Monitors Air, Detects No Elevated Levels of Radiation across the Pacific to Hawaii. In the event of STATE DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH a significant release from the reactor, offi- (DOH) OFFICIALS say no elevated radi- cials say radiation would be diluted before ation levels have been detected since re- reaching the state and levels would be so cent explosions at nuclear plants in Japan. low no protective action would be neces- Two of the country’s nuclear reactors sary. were damaged in the wake of the magni- Should the situation change, DOH offi- tude 8.9 quake and tsunami on March 11, cials are making preparations by coordi- 2011. nating with national and statewide partners According to the DOH, air samples re- and ensuring medical stockpiles are readily main at ambient or normal background lev- available. In Japan, potassium iodine pills els following a small release of radiation are being passed out to people living on March 12, 2011 at a nuclear near the threatened nuclear re- reactor facility in Japan. A actors. The iodine helps news release from the combat against radiation Japan Nuclear and Indus- poisoning. trial Safety Agency The DOH in part- (NISA) indicated that nership with the U.S. the amount of radioac- Environmental Pro- tive material released tection Agency has a from the Fukushima system in place for Dai-ichi Nuclear Power ambient monitoring for Station was relatively radioactive dust. The small. system (RADNET) looks DOH’s Indoor and Radio- at real-time data as well as logical Health Branch (IRHB) is particulate sampling (from moni- closely monitoring information on the radia- tors located on the islands of Oahu and tion release and expects no public health Hawaii) which are analyzed by the DOH risk to the state, considering the size of the and at a laboratory in Alabama. release and distance from Hawaii. DOH’s radiological health staff is cur- The Nuclear Regulatory Commission rently working with other state and federal (NRC) released a statement on March 13 entities on radioactive plume modeling. All stating, “All the available information indi- models are based on real-time atmospheric cates weather conditions have taken the conditions and indicate that the release is small releases from the Fukushima reactors headed away from the Hawaiian Islands. out to sea away from the population. Given For further information go to the DOH the thousands of miles between the two website at www.hawaii.gov/doh or go to the countries, Hawaii, Alaska, the U.S. Territo- following sites: U.S. Centers for Disease ries and the U.S. West Coast are not ex- Control and Prevention: http://emer- pected to experience any harmful levels of gency.cdc.gov/radiation/; U.S. Environ- radioactivity.” mental Protection Agency The nuclear plant incident raised con- http://www.epa.gov/radiation/rert/monitor- cerns about wind-blown radiation traveling ing.html or http://epa.gov/narel/radnet/. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 8 OPINION MARCH 19, 2011

sioner shall make or amend the and 237 of this Code, or when Who's Afraid of the Taxman? return from his own knowledge there is reason to believe that AS I WRECK THIS CHAIR by William M. ESPOSO and from such information as the books of accounts or other Section 5 adds: The provi- he can obtain through testi- records do not correctly reflect hy should some Con- ing the liability of any person for sions of the foregoing para- mony or otherwise, which shall the declarations made or to be gressmen be bothered any internal revenue tax, or in graphs notwithstanding, nothing be prima facie correct and suffi- made in a return required to be Wto the point of agitation collecting any such liability, or in in this Section shall be con- cient for all legal purposes. filed under the provisions of this by the announcement of the Bu- evaluating tax compliance, the strued as granting the Commis- Code, the Commissioner, after reau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner is authorized: sioner the authority to inquire (C) Authority to Conduct Inven- taking into account the sales, to mandate starting next year (A) To examine any book, into bank deposits other than as tory-taking, surveillance receipts, income or other tax- the so-called Annual Income paper, record, or other data provided for in Section 6 (F) of and to Prescribe Presump- able base of other persons en- Report (AIR) from every tax- which may be relevant or this Code. tive Gross Sales and Re- gaged in similar businesses payer with an annual income of material to such inquiry; From SECTION 6. Power ceipts. under similar situations or cir- over P500,000? Per BIR Com- (B) To obtain on a regular basis of the Commissioner to Make — The Commissioner may, cumstances or after considering missioner Kim Henares, some from any person other than assessments and Prescribe at any time during the tax- other relevant information may 54,000 taxpayers will be af- the person whose internal additional Requirements for able year, order inventory- prescribe a minimum amount of fected by the AIR requirement. revenue tax liability is sub- Tax Administration and En- taking of goods of any such gross receipts, sales and Some of the AIR’s most ject to audit or investigation, forcement. – taxpayer as a basis for de- taxable base, and such amount vocal critics in Congress are or from any office or officer (B) Failure to Submit Required termining his internal rev- so prescribed shall be prima claiming that it’s unconstitu- of the national and local Returns, Statements, Re- enue tax liabilities, or may facie correct for purposes of de- tional because it’s tantamount governments, government ports and other Documents. place the business opera- termining the internal revenue to an invasion of privacy. Since agencies and instrumental- — When a report required tions of any person, natural tax liabilities of such person. when and how did a BIR that’s ities, including the Bangko by law as a basis for the as- or juridical, under observa- Letter F, Section 6 of the diligently trying to do its job of Sentral ng Pilipinas and sessment of any national tion or surveillance if there code authorizes the BIR Com- collecting all taxable revenues government-owned or -con- internal revenue tax shall is reason to believe that missioner to inquire into bank from taxpayers ever commit an trolled corporations, any in- not be forthcoming within such person is not declar- deposits. Furthermore, Letter H invasion of privacy? That is as formation such as, but not the time fixed by laws or ing his correct income, of Section 6 states that: “The gobbledygook as gobbledygook limited to, costs and volume rules and regulations or sales or receipts for internal Commissioner may prescribe can be. of production, receipts or when there is reason to be- revenue tax purposes. The the manner of compliance with Let’s review the mandate of sales and gross incomes of lieve that any such report is findings may be used as any documentary or procedural BIR and the BIR Commissioner taxpayers, and the names, false, incomplete or erro- the basis for assessing the requirement in connection with under relevant Sections 5 and 6 addresses, and financial neous, the Commissioner taxes for the other months the submission or preparation of the National Internal Rev- statements of corporations, shall assess the proper tax or quarters of the same or of financial statements accom- enue code, as follows: mutual fund companies, in- on the best evidence ob- different taxable years and panying the tax returns.” SECTION 5. Power of the surance companies, re- tainable. such assessment shall be With such a BIR legal man- Commissioner to Obtain In- gional operating deemed prima facie cor- date, how can some Congress- formation, and to Summon, headquarters of multina- In case a person fails to file rect. men consider the AIR as an Examine, and Take Testimony tional companies, joint ac- a required return or other docu- invasion of an individual’s right of of Persons. — In ascertaining counts, associations, joint ment at the time prescribed by When it is found that a per- privacy? Maybe they’re just pro- the correctness of any return, or ventures of consortia and law, or willfully or otherwise files son has failed to issue receipts tecting some of their big donors in making a return when none registered partnerships, a false or fraudulent return or and invoices in violation of the who also happen to be big tax has been made, or in determin- and their members; other document, the Commis- requirements of Sections 113 evaders. (www.philstar.com) PHILIPPINE NEWS Romulo Turns Over DFA Reins to Del Romulo highlighted several Rosario DFA achievements under his OUTGOING FOREIGN AF- watch, including the shift to ma- FAIRS SECRETARY AL- chine-readable passports in 2007, BERTO G. ROMULO formally electronic passports in 2009, the turned over the leadership of the transfer of the DFA Office of Con- Department of Foreign Affairs sular Affairs to the Aseana Busi- (DFA) to Foreign Affairs Secretary ness Park in Paranaque City, the Albert F. del Rosario in a ceremony adoption of the Philippine Base- held March 2, 2011. lines Law and the granting of bene- Romulo said that the appoint- fits to Filipino veterans by the U.S. ment of Secretary Del Rosario is Congress. both a blessing and boon for the Incoming Foreign Affairs Sec- DFA. retary del Rosario said that his for- “Secretary Del Rosario has an eign policy vision would not veer outstanding record in public serv- away from the three pillars of ice, as well as an unsullied reputa- Philippine foreign policy—national tion and great achievements,” he security, economic diplomacy and said. protection and promotion of the Romulo also credited the men welfare of Filipino nationals. and women of the DFA, noting that Del Rosario added that the they have been superb in fulfilling DFA will consider inputs and sug- their duties. gestions on foreign policy from “They have always been in the other sectors, saying “We will open frontlines and have performed su- up foreign policy by engaging Con- perbly crisis after crisis-from Iraq, gress and other sectors involved in Lebanon and Afghanistan before to crafting the direction of our foreign Egypt and Libya now,” he stated. policy.” (DFA) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 PHILIPPINE NEWS 9

materials from Japan reaching the no need to suspend classes based DOST: No Acid Rain in Phl Philippines. on the allegations circulating in text NDRRMC executive director messages about rains that can burn by Helen FLORES/ Tuesday, March 15, 2011 ing reports from the IAEA. Benito Ramos said the people or cause cancer,” Ganzon said. “The design of the Fukushima should verify the information they Meanwhile, warnings of acid MANILA, Philippines - THE DE- reactor is different from that of the get from experts such as scientists rain from the nuclear fallout from PARTMENT OF SCIENCE AND Chernobyl nuclear power plant (in from the Philippine Nuclear Re- Japan have forced officials of some TECHNOLOGY (DOST) yester- Russia),” Montejo said. “In the event search Institute. elementary schools to suspend day dismissed reports circulating via of a meltdown at Fukushima, the “They should not immediately classes and let the school children text message that the Philippines melted fuel is expected to stay believe the information relayed to go home in Bangued, Abra. will be affected by a radiation leak within the stainless steel contain- them… They should get the infor- “My daughter went home pale from earthquake-damaged ment dome, preventing its release to mation from the authorities,” Ramos because of fear from the radiation Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power the environment.” said. that will come at 4 p.m.,” Depart- plant in Japan. The Chernobyl power plant did ment of Justice-Abra administrative Science Secretary Mario Mon- not have a reactor building concrete NUCLEAR SCARE SUSPENDS officer Jack Turqueza said. tejo said the level of radiation in the shield and steel containment, he DOST Sec. Mario Montojo CLASSES AT PUP Pagasa however denied re- environment in the country has re- added. ple that the partial meltdown at the The warning of nuclear radia- ports that there will be “acid rain” in mained stable since the Fukushima Montejo also explained that the two nuclear reactors in Japan does tion from Japan caused panic the Philippines supposedly because incident. explosion at the Unit 1 reactor of the not pose an immediate threat to the among parents and students of the of radioactive clouds from Japan. “No increase in radiation level Fukushima Daiichi plant occurred Philippines. Polytechnic University of the Philip- “The winds from Japan are means that, as of the moment, there outside the primary containment In a press conference at the pines (PUP) in Manila and the moving away from us. It’s not true are no immediate effects of the vessel (PCV), not inside. Department of Health (DOH), WHO school’s other campuses in Luzon that these winds contain acid rain,” Fukushima nuclear power plant ex- The plant operator, Tokyo Elec- country representative Dr. Soe that forced school officials to sus- Pagasa weather forecaster Aldczar plosion to the Philippines,” Montejo tric Power Co. (TEPCO), has con- Nyunt-U said “even within Japan, pend classes. Aurelio said in a radio interview. said. firmed that the integrity of the there is minimal effect of radiation.” Dr. Dante Guevarra, PUP pres- The Philippine Institute of Vol- According to the text message primary containment vessel remains Soe maintained that for one, ident, said that he saw no need to canology and Seismology also al- that quoted the British Broadcasting intact, Montejo said. the wind direction is not going to the keep the students in school since layed fears of a tsunami following Co. (BBC), “Radiation may hit the To limit damage to the reactor Philippines. they could not concentrate anyway. the strong aftershock that hit Japan Phil. Starting 4 p.m. today (Mon- core, Japan’s Nuclear and Indus- “The direction of the movement “There is so much anxiety yesterday. day).” trial Safety Agency (NISA) ap- of the radioactive materials (is de- among the students. They were also Phivolcs Director Renato “The explosion (at the Japan- proved the pumping of seawater pendent) on wind direction. It is very passing the word around (about the Solidum said that even if there were ese nuclear plant) happened last mixed with boric acid into the pri- good to know that the prevailing text message warning) so we de- an aftershock measuring up to mag- Saturday, the critical period is one to mary containment vessel. Boric wind condition is from the Philip- cided it was better to suspend nitude 7.5, it could not generate a two days,” he said, adding “it was a acid absorbs neutrons to prevent pines to Japan. Even if things hap- classes,” Guevarra told The STAR. tsunami that can affect the Philip- small radiation leak.” reactor criticality. pen, the radioactive materials will Guevarra said tension at the pines. Montejo said the DOST’s NISA has likewise confirmed not come to the Philippines,” he campus started as early as 7:30 “We have received many in- Philippine Nuclear Research Insti- the presence of radioactive ele- added. a.m. when they started getting calls quiries on whether there is a tute (PNRI) is closely monitoring de- ments cesium-137 and iodine-131 Health Undersecretary Mario inquiring about the text messages. tsunami warning in the Philippines. velopments through its 24-hour in the vicinity of Fukushima Daiichi Villaverde echoed this, citing a re- “We were being swamped by We have to stress the official warn- linkup with the International Atomic Unit 1. NISA reported an initial in- port of the DOST’s Philippine Nu- calls, by texts,” Guevarra said. ing can come only from us,” Solidum Energy Agency (IAEA). crease in levels of radioactivity clear Research Institute that “the The order for the suspension of said. PNRI Director Alumanda de la around the plant earlier today, but level of radiation in the country has classes at the PUP – which has a The Department of Foreign Af- Rosa also cited a plume trajectory these levels have been observed to remained stable since the total student population of 65,000 in fairs had advised Filipinos near the study provided by Philippine Atmos- lessen in recent hours. Fukushima incident (meltdown) in all its campuses in Luzon, while its damaged Fukushima nuclear plant pheric, Geophysical and Astronom- The PNRI’s National Radiolog- Japan.” main campus in Santa Mesa, to move away from the area to avoid ical Services Administration ical Emergency Preparedness and “The conclusion is that there Manila, has a population of 37,000 exposure to radiation. (Pagasa) showing that the plume Response Plan had put in place an is no immediate threat to the – came at 1:30 p.m. DFA also reported that the from the site of the incident at organized emergency response fa- Philippines. Just in case, we have Cristina Ganzon, Department Philippine Permanent Mission to the Fukushima will not pass the Philip- cility for a timely, coordinated action the National Radiological Emer- of Education Communication Unit United Nations and other interna- pine territory as of March 14. of Philippine authorities in the event gency Preparedness and Re- chief, said they saw no need to sus- tional organizations in Vienna said “The direction of the smoke ap- of a radiological emergency, De la sponse Plan and this will be the pend classes after a DOST advisory the IAEA based in Vienna is moni- pears to go away from the direction Rosa said. one that will be put in place if there was released denying any danger of toring the situation at the nuclear of the country,” De la Rosa said. “The PNRI is closely monitoring is a threat to the Philippines,” radiation from Japan. power plants in Japan that have “The smoke is carried away by the developments at Fukushima every Villaverde added. “As advised by the Department been affected by the earthquake northeast monsoon (amihan).” six hours and maintains a 24-hour The National Disaster Risk Re- of Science and Technology, there is and tsunami. (www.philstar.com) Containment remains intact at linkup with the IAEA,” she said. duction and Management Council the Fukushima Daiichi Units 1, 2 The World Health Organization (NDRRMC) urged the public to ig- and 3, according to Montejo, quot- (WHO) yesterday assured the peo- nore rumors about the radioactive P-Noy Orders Assessment of Phl Disaster Preparedness dered a review of the country’s dis- aster-preparedness particularly for by Aurea CALICA/ early as April and was in talks with earthquake and tsunami. Tuesday, March 15, 2011 the Japan Bank for International Co- “He’s going to get a briefing MANILA, Philippines - PRESI- operation for a guarantee. from officers of the defense proba- DENT AQUINO ORDERED “It’s also difficult for us to come bly, most likely this week - just to re- GOVERNMENT AGENCIES up with our own assessment as to view the status of all of these yesterday to review and come up whether or not bond issue will push disaster-preparedness in light of with a comprehensive assessment through, as to whether or not this will what’s happening,” he said. of the country’s disaster prepared- have an impact on our economy,” he Carandang said the govern- ness. said. ment was focused on the immediate However, Presidential Commu- Aquino met officials of the safety concerns as well as the nu- nications Secretary Ricky Caran- Philippine Nuclear Research Insti- clear crisis in Japan. dang said the government was still tute, Department of Science and “The President ordered a re- studying the impact of the disaster Technology, Department of Health, view of our disaster capabilities par- in Japan on the Philippine economy. Department of Budget and Manage- ticularly with earthquakes and The issuance of Samurai ment, National Security Council, tsunamis - there are a number of ini- bonds might be reviewed, he added. Presidential Management Staff and tiatives that had begun to be under- Carandang said the Philippines the Office of the Executive Secre- taken,” he said. was considering a Samurai bond tary. “For example, the tsunami sale with maturity of 15 years as Carandang said Aquino or- (continued on page 10) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 10 MARCH 19, 2011 PHILIPPINE NEWS Budget Surplus Reaches government in January showed that the re- P13.4 B forms put in place by the Aquino administration to improve revenues have been working. Iris GONZALES by / The reforms include the filing of cases Wednesday, March 16, 2011 against tax evaders and smugglers. MANILA, Philippines - THE GOVERNMENT “As of mid-March, BOC has filed 28 crim- POSTED A BUDGET SURPLUS of P13.4 inal complaints since July 2010. These cases billion in January, a reversal from a budget have a combined dutiable value of P42.5 billion deficit of P37.1 billion incurred in the same pe- and involved 134 respondents consisting of im- riod last year, Finance Secretary Cesar porters, brokers as well as BOC employees,” Purisima announced yesterday. Purisima said. “As of mid March 2011, the BIR The finance chief said remittances from has filed a total of 33 tax evasion cases since government-owned and controlled corpora- July 2010 against high-profile individuals,” he tions to the national government as well as im- said adding that the “fear factor” is working. proved collections of both the Bureau of “Our message to our non-tax compliant Internal Revenue (BIR) and the Bureau of Cus- countrymen is very simple. They have to pay toms (BOC) reversed the January fiscal posi- their taxes promptly or face legal conse- tion to a surplus. quences, including fines. They should not wait Revenues in January reached P135.9 bil- for cases to be filed against them,” he said. lion, 47 percent higher than the P92.3 billion re- “We are also encouraging all Filipinos to ported in the same period last year. The BIR ask for official receipt on their purchases to and the BOC registered growth of 15 percent make sure that the taxes they pay on those and 17 percent, respectively. products and services go to the government Data from the Department of Finance and not somewhere else,” he said. showed that the BIR collected P74.6 billion The Finance chief said the government while BOC revenues amounted to P20.5 billion. would continue to file criminal cases against tax The Bureau of Treasury, meanwhile, col- evaders, smugglers and unscrupulous govern- lected P31 billion and remittances from other ment employees. government offices amounted to P9.8 billion. “This will increase the risk that those who Expenditures, on the other hand, participate in corruption face. Finally, we will ra- amounted to P122.5 billion or five percent tionalize our processes, invest in technology lower than the disbursements in the same pe- and external information so that we can drive riod last year. performance in the DOF, BIR and BOC,” he Purisima said the fiscal performance of the said. (www.philstar.com) Bulusan Lahar Flows; 200

The affected residents were evacuated to Evacuated the Patag Barangay Chapel and the municipal by Marvin SY/ hall of Irosin. Tuesday, March 15, 2011 Field reports reaching NDRRMC said that MANILA, Philippines - AT LEAST 200 VIL- the Rangas river in Irosin town also overflowed LAGERS IN IROSIN, Sorsogon, were evac- due to heavy rains. uated after lahar and mud from Bulusan Residents in Juban town were also alerted volcano flowed before dawn Tuesday. against possible flooding due to continuous The National Disaster Risk Reduction rains. Management Council (NDRRMC) said in a re- The NDRRMC said its municipal office is port that the lahar flow occurred at Barangay continuously monitoring the situation in the Patag, around 1 a.m., following heavy rains town and assessment of the actual number of Monday night. affected families was continuous. The NDRRMC said three houses were The municipal disaster risk reduction man- partially damaged by the lahar flow and 50 agement council in Juban town has also been more were reached by mudflow. activated. (www.philstar.com)

(cont. from page 9; P-NOY ... ) following the 8.9 magnitude earthquake that warning system which has begun, we’d like to struck Japan last Friday. find out exactly what the status is of that - all of Sen. Loren Legarda said national and that will be told to the President this week when local government leaders should clearly state he’s briefed by the OCD (Office of the Civil De- what they are doing to reduce the possible fense). damage and loss of life in the event of a strong earthquake. SENATE TO PROBE GOV’T’S DISASTER The Metro Manila Earthquake Impact Re- PREPAREDNESS duction Study conducted jointly by the Japan The Senate will conduct an inquiry tomor- International Cooperation Agency, Metropolitan row into the preparedness of government agen- Manila Development Authority and the Philip- cies in dealing with a strong earthquake and a pine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology tsunami. has outlined the measures that should be un- Acting on a resolution of Sen. Juan Miguel dertaken to reduce the impact of a major earth- Zubiri, the committees on environment and cli- quake in Metro Manila, she added. mate change would look into the programs of The report indicated that a 7.2 magnitude various government agencies, as well as the earthquake in Metro Manila would result in the preparation of local governments for a national destruction of 169,000 houses, the damaging crisis scenario. of 340,000 other houses, representing 40 per- In his resolution, Zubiri said the Senate cent of all residential buildings in the metropo- needs to look into the status and preparedness lis. of national government and local government Thirty five percent of all public buildings in- disaster risk reduction and management plans (continued on page 11) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 PHILIPPINE NEWS 11 moving toward the east—towards the Pacific Ocean—not south, to- Food from Japan Being Inspected be reviewed,” Carandang said. wards us. So there’s no truth to tional Security Council, Presidential Japanese officials confirmed those text messages,” Carandang by Aurea CALICA/ Management Staff and the Office of three nuclear reactors north of said. Tuesday, March 15, 2011 the Executive Secretary to make Tokyo were at risk of overheating, MANILA, Philippines - THE sure that the Philippines would be raising fears of an uncontrolled ra- PRECAUTIONARY MEASURE PHILIPPINES WILL BEGIN TO safe from any possible effects of diation leak. In Singapore, the country’s INSPECT FOOD imports from the nuclear crisis in Japan. Engineers worked desperately food regulator said that as a pre- Japan to check their radiation levels “Just as a precaution, imports to cool the fuel rods in the damaged cautionary measure, it will monitor but downplayed any direct and im- from Japan, mostly foodstuffs, will reactors. If they fail, the containers Japanese produce based on source mediate threat to the country follow- be checked for levels of radiation,” that house the core could melt, or and potential risk of contamination. ing explosions in nuclear plants in Carandang told reporters after the even explode, releasing radioactive “Samples will be taken for test- Fukushima. meeting in Malacañang. material into the atmosphere. ing for radiation. Fresh produce will This developed as Singapore The PNRI will be in charge of But Carandang said the have priority. AVA (Agri-Food and said yesterday that it was testing the tests because the Department Japanese government managed to Veterinary Authority of Singapore) food products from Japan for radia- of Agriculture checks agricultural Secretary Ricky Carandang prevent a meltdown “which would will continue to closely monitor the tion. products while the DOH is in Secretary (Mario) Montejo, there is have been the worst case sce- situation and its developments,” it The government also appealed charge of processed food. no immediate threat to the country nario.” said in a statement. to “alarmists” to stop spreading “I’m not sure how quickly they right now from the explosion that Carandang said there was no The AVA said the bulk of Japan- through text messages that acid rain can get it done but at the soonest happened at the nuclear plant. I need to panic and denied that the ese imports arrive by sea, but high- would fall because of radiation com- possible time,” Carandang said. think the nature of the explosion text messages were coming from end Japanese restaurants in ing from a leak in a devastated But Carandang said there was has been covered already by inter- credible news organizations like Singapore routinely use air freight to Fukushima nuclear plant that might no plan to screen any travelers national media— the explosions BBC. fly in produce such as raw fish -- in- hit local winds. from Japan at this time. occurred not in the reactor but out- “There’s no truth to that, in tegral to sushi and sashimi -- to en- Presidential Communications Carandang said the President side of the reactor. It was hydrogen fact, based on the briefing to us sure its freshness and quality. Development and Strategic Plan- and all the other government offi- explosion that apparently did not af- (yesterday) morning, as you know, The city-state has a large con- ning Office Secretary Ricky Caran- cials received information that there fect the reactor so that’s very good there are some concerns that some centration of restaurants serving dang said President Aquino met was no nuclear meltdown that oc- news for everyone,” Carandang radioactive material was released. Japanese cuisine, which is very with the heads of the Philippine Nu- curred. said. They released some radioactive popular among Singaporeans. clear Research Institute, Depart- “The information that we have “I think we were all relieved. material to prevent a larger problem Government figures showed ment of Science and Technology, was that there was no meltdown, But of course, there’s so much that from occurring. We are following the city-state’s imports from Japan Department of Health, Department that the worst of it has been con- needs to be considered at this the wind patterns over the weekend totaling $26.2 billion last year. of Budget and Management, Na- tained. So according to (DOST) point. The preparations still have to and the wind patterns seem to be (www.philstar.com)

(cont. from page 10; P-NOY ... ) spections to ensure its structural “We should make sure that the terms of resources and given the old these are all projections, (it would be cluding schools and hospitals, city soundness. structures are strong,” he quoted structures surrounding it. better if these are) preventive rather halls, fire and police stations, would Monsignor Clemente Ignacio, Rosales as saying. The quake would result in than alarmist,” she said. also be damaged and seven bridges Quiapo Church rector, said a full- The instructions were given major fires in Manila, Pasig and “For every calamity that would likely collapse. time engineer, Vic Malilin regularly after the earthquakes in Haiti and In- Quezon City, the study added. passes, it seems that we see a lot of Legarda also called for a re- checks the centuries-old church. donesia last year, he added. Phivolcs is reportedly monitor- Jun Palafox on the news and on view of the early warning systems Ignacio said they are seeking ing three fault lines: the Marikina TV,” she said. for earthquakes and tsunamis as the assistance of a heritage archi- THE ‘BIG ONE’ Trench, Manila Bay Fault Line and “We’ve not heard from Mr. well as the country’s system for re- tect and will coordinate with the Na- Officials of the Department of the West Valley Fault. Palafox,” she added, referring to any questing and receiving international tional Historical Commission. Public Works and Highways Singson said they would have recommendation that may have humanitarian assistance. “I want everything to be sure (DPWH) and the Philippine Institute to determine if the structures along been forwarded to them. “So far we She emphasized the need to that the building is in good condi- of Volcanology and Seismology these fault lines would be able to have not received anything. We establish disaster preparedness tion,” he said. (Phivolcs) are set to meet this week withstand an 8.9 magnitude quake. have not received any plan from ar- measures especially at the “When you are checking a to assess the impact of a big earth- chitect Palafox.” barangay level, such as ensuring structure, there is what we call a quake on Metro Manila. PALACE TO PALAFOX: STOP Valte said Aquino’s instructions the soundness of critical infrastruc- physical check - what we look at Public Works Secretary Roge- BEING AN ALARMIST are continued monitoring for disas- ture through evaluation and retro- here are the posts or the pillars. lio Singson said he would have a Architect Felino Palafox Jr. ter officials and regular briefings for fitting to allow them to withstand “If there are signs of cracks and “technical discussion with Phivolcs should help the administration craft the communications group, so that destructive earthquakes. it breaks, then that is the first level to cushion the impact of the Big a disaster preparedness plan in- everyone will be notified of what will “Restoring our coastal man- of checking. There is also the his- One.” stead of being an alarmist, Mala- happen, be it fear of nuclear radia- grove forests and continuous tree- torical, wherein you look at the num- One of the topics that might be cañang said yesterday. tion, tsunami or earthquake. planting activities are simple yet ber of earthquakes that a structure taken up is the study conducted by Deputy presidential spokesper- “Certainly, it’s a point of con- effective defenses against several has.” the Japan International Cooperation son Abigail Valte said everytime a cern for the President,” she said. types of hazards,” she said. Ignacio said the Quiapo Church Agency (JICA) that allegedly hinted disaster occurs, the expert on urban “It’s a point of concern, which “While trees serve as buffers structure seems okay in the aspect on the possibility that buildings in planning seems to be all over the is why he did ask for regular up- from heavy rains, mangroves serve of physical and historical check-ups. Metro Manila would collapse in a 7.2 news in radio stations, and contrary dates on the matter. I believe there as shield from storm surges and ris- “But if you want a more exten- magnitude tremor, he added. to his claims, he has not given Pres- are six (nuclear) reactors in ing sea levels.” sive way of checking, you would The JICA study said Metro ident Aquino a copy of his propos- Fukushima, so he wanted regular Legarda said mayors of Metro need an X-ray and sophisticated Manila was not prepared to deal als. updates on how this would affect Manila, including the Alliance of machines,” he said. with a 7.2 magnitude earthquake in “We’d like to stress that while us.” (www.philstar.com) Seven Mayors, and more than 50 Quiapo Church has also a dis- local executives in Cebu and Cen- aster management team as re- tral Visayas have already committed quired by the Manila city to the United Nation’s Making Cities government to respond to emer- Resilient campaign. gency situations. “I am happy with our local lead- “We also have lectures with our ers’ and citizens’ growing aware- staff,” he said. ness on the issue of climate change. “Our ushers have been trained This is what we need, to put to- for bomb (detection), next time they gether our political will and actions would undergo training for fire and for a country that is prepared to earthquake drills. ward off the ill effects of natural haz- “These are necessary steps to ards.” ensure the parishioners’ safety.” Ignacio said they started beef- QUIAPO CHURCH IN GOOD ing up their safety measures after CONDITION Archbishop of Manila Gaudencio The Minor Basilica of the Black Cardinal Rosales gave verbal in- Nazarene or Quiapo Church in structions to have the structures Manila is subjected to periodic in- double checked. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 12 TRAVELOGUE MARCH 19, 2011 It's Time for TAAL by Lester Gopela HALLIG where we were welcomed by our host, heritage warrior Ernie Villavi- ANILA, Philippines - We cencio. The ancestral house jumped at the chance to proved to be a perfect introduction M visit Taal, Batangas. It to Taal’s rich heritage. sounded more like an invitation, re- The pre-1850 Eulalio and ally, to get to know the town better. Gliceria Marella Villavicencio An- Despite our frequent travels, we cestral House figured famously in sheepishly admit that our knowl- the Philippine Revolution, as it was edge of Taal was limited only to the the refuge of Filipino soldiers and overly popular volcano and the the secret meeting place of revolu- chairs were called silyang pamim- Vigan used to have the lake, and to the Internet. Of course, tionary leaders. This was the place intana. Our guide laughed, “Since same problem: nobody we cannot depend on what turns where the Katipuneros sought the television was not yet invented, wanted to restore old up on the Web. It is always differ- advice of Gliceria, who earned the people amused themselves by houses. But they kept ent and more satisfying to experi- title “The Forgotten Heroine of the watching other people pass by.” on. That is our plan, ence the town itself, walk through Philippine Revolution.” The ancestral house best il- too. The entire town of its streets, talk to its people, take in Thanks to the restoration of lustrates the bahay na bato in the Taal has ancestral its history, and appreciate its her- her house by great-great- southern region. Ernie said, “In homes, not just a por- itage. grandson Ernie and his wife Ria, this part of the country, the stone tion of it. With that in So there we were in Taal, with Aling Eriang would not be easily part is the lower level. The upper mind, we have to be our first stop at the Villavicencio An- forgotten now. The ancestral house portion is made of wood.” In this patient. It does not cestral House. It was also here offered a sneak peek into the hero- case, they used local hardwood happen overnight any- ine and her family’s life such as narra, ipil, and molave. way.” in those days. The main living room features por- Meanwhile, they Noticing our traits of Eulalio and Gliceria are busy building the quizzical look at the Marella by Juan Luna. There are necessary infrastruc- two living rooms in the the well-preserved polygonal pan- ture to make Taal more house, Ernie ex- eling, the oil-on-canvas murals enticing to tourists. plained: “There used to dating back to the early 1900s, Restaurants, diners, be levels of intimacy crystal chandeliers of the Victorian and bed-and- among Filipino families age, and the only original tin ceil- breakfast inns are back then. If you are ing in Taal. The Villavicencio being put up to make Saint Martin of Tours Basilica not that close to the house is easy to find along Marella the Taal experience more reward- family, you are rele- Street: it has a bronze bust of ing to tourists. gated to the ante sala, Gliceria Marella. We were so busy absorbing the largest Catholic church in Asia. which is smaller. If you Adjacent to this house is the the exciting sights and stories that It stands 96 meters tall and 45 me- are considered family Villavicencio Gift House, built by we hardly noticed that lunchtime ters wide, and just about looms friends or relatives, Eulalio as a wedding gift to his wife. had arrived. We trooped back to above Taal. The facade bears more you get to sit in the It is just as grand as their main the Villavicencio House and than a passing resemblance to main sala.” abode. Its restored incarnation feasted on Batangas favorites Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome, but The living area shows how the house looked in its such as chicken adobong dilaw, its tabernacle is most unique — it is has large windows, glory days. We saw this house in which does not use soy sauce, just made of silver. with chairs purposely the day but what a sight it was in vinegar and yellow ginger; andsini- The day we arrived, there was placed beside them. the evening. The lighting made the gang na maliputo. The latter was a construction happening in the basil- Villavicencio Ancestral House We were told the house truly alive, with the decadent real treat as maliputo is a fresh ica. That, however, did not prevent colors and the intricate wall details water fish found only in Taal Lake. us from climbing up the bell tower ready to jump on us. The house- We must say that the dish got where a magnificent view of the keeper here informed us that the more delicious when the soup whole town greeted us. From Gift House can be booked for pri- began to thicken. Fish oil surely above, the rows upon rows of an- vate functions. did wonders. cestral houses were in plain sight. “I restore houses because I The afternoon proved to be Further on, we could see Taal’s want to preserve our heritage. It is just as interesting as we headed to beach and the setting sun. part of my commitment to the town. more Taal attractions. Indeed, how It was truly a sight to behold, It is my way of giving back to the could we have lived our entire life something we could honestly say town that made me. It is also my without knowing this place? As they about Taal, too. The town may look way of inviting tourists over to ex- say, it is never too late for discov- spectacular in the photos found in perience Taal,” Ernie declared. “We ery. And discovery was what we the media, but trust us on this one: welcome tourists here in Taal. We truly got when we visited the cen- it is even more extraordinary when want to make this as tourist-friendly turies-old Our Lady of Caysasay experienced first-hand. We always as possible.” Church. We were able to access push family and friends (and even As we found our way into the church via the San Ruiz Steps total strangers) into exploring their some notable houses in Taal, such — that’s 125 granite steps. own country more. It is, after all, not as Philippine flag-maker Marcella Next on our itinerary was the just another reason for a road trip. Agoncillo’s shrine; the Ilagan-Mar- Sacred Well of Santa Lucia. This Consider it as a way to go beyond tinez house which has become used to be a brook where the Lady mere acquaintance with the coun- Galleria Taal, a camera museum; of Caysasay granted miracles and try’s towns and cities, a means to and Gregorio Agoncillo’s White where a church was previously establish a deeper connection with House, we wondered aloud how built. We could see the half-sub- one’s heritage. much the town reminded us some- merged church facade peering out Taal truly provides that oppor- what of Vigan. of the earth. It is several steps tunity. It is more than just ancestral “What we really want to emu- away from the Caysasay Church. houses. Now we realized that Taal late is Vigan,” Ernie nodded. “The A visit to Taal would not be is a history book in itself, with each people of Vigan are our idols. We complete without going to the Saint turn a story that left us enthralled look up to their vigilance into en- Martin of Tours Basilica. This and wanting for more. suring that everything is preserved. church has the distinction of being (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 LEGAL NOTES 13 Student Employment While Under time 17-month STEM extension of report any change of name or ad- Practical Training a post-completion OPT is possible dress or interruption of employment for F-1 students who earn a degree to the DSO. dents learn is through practical train- tracks information on international in science, technology, engineer- In cases where their employ- ing. Practical training allows quali- students and visitors who are in the ing, or mathematics. ers are willing to continue their em- fied foreign students to gain work U.S. under the F visa, among oth- According to a policy guid- ployment under an H-1B visa, experience by applying their aca- ers. The I-20 with the CPT endorse- ance, employment under OPT may foreign students most of the time demic knowledge to a position di- ment constitutes the student’s be part-time or full-time employ- encounter the “cap gap” – the pe- rectly related to their area of study. employment authorization. ment. It may be for a single or for riod between the expiration of the by Reuben S. Employment may be author- There is no limit as to the du- multiple employers, for multiple OPT and the start of their H-1B sta- SEGURITAN ized for F-1 students enrolled for ration of part-time (20 hours or short-term employers, for an tus, which usually occurs on Octo- one full academic year in a Depart- less) or full-time CPT, but a student agency or consulting firm, or for the ber 1 of each year. Because of the ment of Homeland Security (DHS)- who has one year of full-time CPT student him/herself as the business limited number of available H-1B n this year’s State of the Union approved college, school, may no longer be granted OPT at owner. Unpaid volunteer work and visas, highly qualified students Address, President Obama university, conservatory, or semi- the same academic level. Part-time internships are also allowed. More- often face difficulty in continuing I made mention of the unfortu- nary, except students in English- CPT is not accumulated or de- over, the student may perform work their employment. nate repatriation of international language training programs. ducted from OPT. as a contractor paid on tax form In an effort to remedy this, the students enrolled in U.S. colleges There are two types of practi- The other type of practical 1099 and need not be an em- USCIS implemented the “cap gap” and universities. His comment is a cal training: curricular practical training, OPT, is not limited to stu- ployee. However, the employment rule which offers automatic exten- recognition of the significant contri- training (CPT) and optional practi- dents who are currently enrolled in practice must not be in violation of sion of duration of status and any butions of international students cal training (OPT). any class. Pre-completion OPTs labor laws, and in all cases the em- OPT employment authorization and scholars to this country. The first type, CPT, is ap- are available for students on a part- ployment must be directly related to until October 1 of the fiscal year The United States gains by al- proved by the designated school time basis during school sessions, the student’s major area of study. where the student is the beneficiary lowing foreign students to get train- official (DSO) for an activity that is and on both part- and full-time The student initiates the of a petition requesting a change of ing not only in terms of the economic an integral part of an established basis during annual vacations and process by asking the DSO to rec- status to H-1B. This will allow the impact of the students’ presence curriculum, such as a work-study school breaks for students who are ommend the OPT. The DSO makes student to remain and continue and the diversity and global charac- program, internship or practicum enrolled and will register for the such recommendation by issuing a working in the U.S. until the change ter that they bring to the workplace, offered through cooperative agree- next school session. Form I-20 with the OPT endorse- of status takes effect. but also because the country bene- ments between a school and an A maximum of 12 months OPT ment. The student will then file fits from the application of the stu- employer. authorization is allowed for each Form I-765 with the USCIS. If the REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has been prac- dents’ knowledge which they The DSO issues the student an educational level. This means that application is approved, the student ticing law for over 30 years. For further in- acquired in their advanced studies. I-20 with the CPT endorsement after a student can have 12 months of will receive a Form I-766 Employ- formation, you may call him at (212) 695 Apart from formal classroom updating the student’s information in OPT each for the bachelor’s, mas- ment Authorization Document. 5281 or log on to his website at www.seguri- education, another way that stu- the SEVIS, the online database that ter’s, and doctoral levels. A one- Regulations require the student to tan.com MAINLAND NEWS S&P Sees Slower GDP Growth of 5.5% this Year MANILA, Philippines - NEW last year resulting in a single-digit 3.2 percent of GDP. YORK-BASED CREDIT growth of 7.1 percent in govern- “This will add credibility to the RATER STANDARD AND ment spending. new administration’s commitment POOR’S (S&P) sees the eco- The country’s budget deficit to a gradual fiscal consolidation,” nomic growth of the Philippines swelled to a record level of P314.5 Benard said as the Aquino admin- slowing down to 5.5 percent this billion or 3.7 percent of GDP last istratio vowed to trim the deficit to year due to the absence of addi- year from P298.5 billion or 3.9 per- two percent starting 2013 until tional stimulus measures after the cent of GDP in 2009. The shortfall 2016. country posted its fastest expan- was better than the programmed S&P sees the Philippines trim- sion in 34 years last year. 1.1 percent in 2009 from 3.8 per- 4.5 percent over the past decade deficit of P325 billion or 3.9 percent ming the budget deficit to 2.1 per- In a report, S&P analyst Agost cent in 2008 due to the full impact would continue to improve. of GDP. This year, authorities hope cent of GDP as early as this year. Benard said the absence of stimu- of the global financial crisis. “Nevertheless, with the expan- to trim the deficit to P290 billion or (www.philstar.com) lus measures as well as election- “As customary, remittance-fu- sion of the services and construc- related spending would lead to a elled private consumption growth tion sectors, the trend growth rate slower economic growth this year. was a key driver, but investment for the Philippines is likely in the “With these additional stimulus and net exports made notable con- process of rising from the 4.5 per- measures absent this year, and the tributions. This stellar performance cent average seen over the past base effect working in the opposite benefited from a base effect, given decade,” Benard said. direction, we expect growth to be 2009 growth of 1.1 percent, elec- According to him, the Aquino lower at about 5.5 percent,” Benard tion-related spending during the administration’s public private part- said in a report. first half of 2010, as well as some nership (PPP) scheme would help The Philippines posted a measure of fiscal stimulus on ac- boost private sector economic ac- stronger-than-expected gross do- count of the earlier downturn,” he tivity. mestic product (GDP) growth of 7.3 added. However, S&P said the faster percent last year surpassing the re- The DBCC sees the country’s economic growth last year failed to vised target of five percent to six GDP posting a GDP growth of be- boost revenue collections as it im- percent set by the Cabinet-level tween seven percent and eight per- proved only by 7.5 percent while Development Budget Coordination cent. nominal GDP surged by 11 percent. Committee (DBCC). The country Despite the expected slow- The credit rater also cited the was on the verge of a recession down this year, he pointed out that ability of fiscal authorities to curtail after its GDP growth slackened to the average GDP trend growth of expenditures in the second half of HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 14 PHILIPPINE LANGUAGE MARCH 19, 2011 Semana Santa – Aldaw A Panagngilin Pannakarikna Ti Nadiosan A Paltiing wenno gin-awa iti nagmalem. ngem pangpalagip laeng. kaibatugan, maikkan tayo iti sirib, lay kadagiti amin a basbasoltayo Malagip laeng a dagus no adda Umuna nga aldaw ti Semana – pagsanikuaan, kinapintas, kinataer, ditoy lubong. dakes a mapagteng wenno saan a Mierkoles ti makuna a Kurkuros ken kinasalun-at a parabur ti biag Biernes Santo ti pannaka- nasayaat a malak-aman. mapantayo iti simbaan ket ken bagi kabayatan ti panagbiag- pugsat ti anges ti Apo Jesukristo Kasta ti panagtaray ti biag iti in- KUROSAN ni Apo Padi iti muging- tayo. Ar-aramaten tayo kadi met gapu kadatayo. Kaingetan nga DAYASADAS aldaw kadagiti kaaduan a panawen. tayo iti dapo a mangipalagip a laeng dagita gameng a naited ka- aldaw ti semana a ditay unay Ngem no madanon ti Semana datayo a tao naggaputayo iti datayo iti nasayaat a wagas? ikaskaso a dadduma ditoy America. by Pacita C. SALUDES Santa a kunatayo idiay Kailokuan (TAPOK ket sumublitayo iti TAPOK). Impabulod ti Apo nga Addatay latta kadagiti trabaho ken maipaagsep iti rikna ti pan- Makapakintayeg a panunoten no nailangitan dagita a mainanama aniaman nga aramid tayo gapu ta o dadduma adda lattan iti pa- nakaipalagip ti panagtutuok ni Apo dadduma ngem isu ti pudno. nga aramaten a wagas kabayatan ti ditay met maisango ti mapan iti nunot dagiti inaldaw nga Jesus a nangsubbot ti basbasol TAPOK ti naggapuantayo ket panangisublina kadatayo iti TAPOK balay a pagkararagan (simbaan). N aramid manipud panagriing iti tayo. Kaaduanna kadatayo a mal- madanon to met laeng ti panagsub- a naggapuan tayo. Iti Semana SABADO GLORIA, nalpasen agsapa agingga iti rabii a pan- ibtawan nga aramid kangrunaanna litayo iti tapok a naggapuantayo. Santa, ipakita ni APO Jesus ka- ket Agyamantayo. Domingo Pas- naturog. No dadduma di pay ti panawen ti SEMANA SANTA a Kabayatan ti kaadda tayo iti datayo dagiti basbasol tayo. cua (Easter Sunday). Nalpas malagipen ti mangted ti panagya- makuna a mangriing kadatayo. rabaw ti daga a kas tapok, inikkan ti Ipalagip ti SEMANA Santa nga manen ti panagngilin. HAPPY man iti Apo ti nalak-aman a ragsak Saan a panangsermon daytoy Apo ti kada maysa kadatayo iti iladawan ni Apo Jesus a nangbak- EASTER TO EVERYONE! GLOBAL NEWS like themselves—refugees of sorts, wearing black plastic garbage bags Couple Survives New Zealand Quake that shielded them from the cold rain When the violent shaking The Fornos circled the park and winds that began blowing. By HFC Staff stopped, the stunned couple exited FROM BAD TO WORSE looking for their friends. It was nearly They again searched in vain for DOUG AND EVELYN FORNO the botanical gardens and saw nu- The Fornos reached their hotel, 3 pm and having eaten only break- familiar faces….but with no luck. WERE IN THE MIDDLE OF merous cracks and fissures in the which fortunately was still intact. The fast that fateful day, hunger pangs “We tried to rationalize and CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand ground. They decided to head back seven-story building next to it, how- were beginning to set in. Fortu- imagine different scenarios,” Evelyn when a magnitude 6.3 quake hit to their hotel, where they had ever, had collapsed and killed many nately, they spotted staff from their says. “It was starting to get pretty shortly before 1 pm on February 22, checked-in the previous afternoon. foreign students who were studying hotel and inquired about their cold and wet, not to mention our 2011. Less than an hour earlier, they had English inside. Unable to enter the friends but were told that they had deepening worry for our friends.” The couple—who travel fre- toured the town’s museum and hotel or other buildings for fear of yet to be seen. They asked the authorities for quently to Hawaii and who once cathedral, which they later learned collapse, the couple was told by po- They were then instructed by possible locations where other sur- owned property in Waikiki—was va- had collapsed, killing most of those lice to keep moving. They reluctantly the authorities to move to another vivors could be grouping and cationing in New Zealand with who had been inside. did, but did not venture too far from staging area at a much larger park learned there were was a gathering friends Anthony and Gail Seymour, “We saw chaos everywhere,” the hotel, hoping to catch a glimpse on the opposite side of town. The next to the town’s museum. Off they Darrell Donald and Beverley Barrett. Evelyn says. “As we walked across of their friends. park where they presently were was went again but upon arriving, the The Fornos were enjoying the the central area, we saw buildings “Fires were beginning to take to be used as a makeshift emer- “gathering” turned out to be people beautiful rosebushes in teetering, collapsed or burning; dust, hold all around,” Evelyn says. “We gency hospital and morgue. lining up for food. The Fornos de- Christchurch’s famed botanical gar- piles of bricks and broken glass, did not want to go too far for fear of “So off we went again, having cided to join the queue, thinking dens when the quake struck. They traffic going nowhere. We even missing our friends, so we stayed to circle the city which was in the they’d at least be better off with food heard a loud rumble that sounded came across at least one dead per- close to the hotel and prayed that process of being shut down by the in their stomachs. While in line, they like a jet taking off, then felt the earth son, many injured and bleeding and they would walk to where we were.” police,” Evelyn says. “Thankfully, the befriended a Dutch couple and a shaking violently. others walking around stunned.” They were directed by authori- husband of our hotel manager gave young Spanish backpacker. To- “I tried to keep upright but to no The couple immediately ties to move towards a nearby park, us a box of trail mix bars and a bot- gether, they ate dinner. avail,” says Evelyn, who fell to the thought of their dear friends the Sey- which became a staging area. They tle of water. As we walked, I picked Afterwards, they parted ways ground and reached for a rosebush mours and the Barretts who had were careful to walk in the middle of up an apple on the footpath, obvi- and headed back to the emergency to steady herself, pricking her fin- traveled with them, but finding them the street and stepped over piles of ously dropped by someone trying to shelter to continue searching for gers. Sirens began blaring from all in the midst of the chaos would be debris. get away, and kept it since we had friends. At about 7 p.m., they were directions. next to impossible. “There was so much devasta- no idea how long we’d be without told that all “refugees” were to be tion,” Evelyn says. She noted that food. We were on survival mode transferred yet again and that the the streets had liquefied—similar to and many roads were blocked by Red Cross was setting up a registry. wet lahar after a volcanic eruption debris or by the liquefaction that had Fortunately, they ran into the but coming from underground in gushed up from underground and Spanish backpacker who informed huge amounts that swamped roads, swamped cars and streets.” them of a motel with available cars and caused huge trees to top- The couple arrived at the rooms. The Fornos decided to walk ple. Later, sewage would bubble to fenced emergency shelter, which the kilometer to the motel in the the surface. was not far the botanical gardens pouring rain. where they originally were when the “We were soaking wet upon ar- A SEARCH FOR FRIENDS quake hit. There, they found others (continued on page 15) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION MARCH 19, 2011 15 COMMUNITY CALENDAR CLASSIFIED ADS BUSINESS

3RD ANNUAL FILIPINO FILM FESTIVAL Mayohan ● Tagalog with English FOR RENT-APARTMENTS DIRECTORY FOR THE BENEFIT OF PMAH OHANA subtitles ● Thursday, March 24, 2011 PARTLY FURNISHED MEDICAL MISSIONS, INC 1pm, 7:30pm Alewa Hts. Ex-lg 2/1. $1750/mo March 19-26, 2011 ● Doris Duke Theater incl wtr, elec, basic cable, parking. Honolulu Academy of Arts 900 South Pinoy Sunday ● 84 min. ● Tagalog Kitchen has space for dining room Beretania Street with English subtitles ● Friday, March or home office. Furo soaking Entrance to Doris Duke Theater at Kinau 25, 2011 pm, 7:30pm tub/shower in bathroom. Wrap- Street ● Contact Dr. Leni Alvarez @ 521- around patio with city views. No - 9847 Two Funerals ● Tagalog with Eng- lish subtitles ● Saturday, March 26, pets. Month-to-month as property is listed for sale. Here Comes the Bride ● 116 min. ● 2011 1pm, 4pm, 7:30pm 803A Iholena Place. Tagalog with English subtitles ● Sat- Phone (808)330-5380 for appoint- urday, March 19, 2011 Premier 6pm, LETTERMEN AT NEIL BLAISDELL CON- ment. Screening 7:30pm ● Sunday, March CERT HALL / SATURDAY 20, 2011 Premier 1pm, Screening April 2, 2011, 7pm ● Benefit Concert of Kalihi 2/1. $900/mo incl wtr. 2nd 4pm Divine Mercy Monastery of the Carmelite floor walk-up in 4-plex bldg. No pets. Nuns of the Holy Trinity ● For more infor- Min lease 1 yr. The Mountain Thief ● 78 min. ● mation contact: Arlene (808) 255-8165; 965 Kamenani St. Tagalog with English subtitles/Video Agnes (808) 429-8213 Phone (808)330-5380 for appoint- documentary ● Sunday, March 20, ment. 2011 7:30pm ● Tuesday, March 22, 2011 FILIPINO FIESTA / SATURDAY 2011 1pm, 7:30pm May 7, 2011 ● UPSTAIRS FOR RENT Parade: 9 – 10am 4 Bedroom, $1,600 Pink Halo-Halo ● Tigaonon with Fiesta at Kapiolani Park: 10am – 4pm Waipahu Area, near bus stops, English subtitles ● Wednesday, ● For more information, call the FilCom school, supermarket and church. March 23, 2011 1pm, 7:30pm Center at 680-0451 Call 330-9701 GLOBAL NEWS Government Urges Pinoys in Bahrain to Seguis assured the public that the embassy’s contingency Restrict Movements plan in Bahrain is updated and in place, and proactive meas- MANILA, Philippines - THE GOVERNMENT HAS ADVISED ures are undertaken, including the conduct of meetings with the FILIPINOS IN BAHRAIN to restrict their movements after Filipino community leaders and members to brief them of the troops from neighboring United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia contingency plans. moved in to help Bahrain quell anti-government protests. The embassy in Bahrain has been closely monitoring de- Speaking to reporters, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary velopments in the country, and has met with the Filipino com- Rafael Seguis said embassy staff in Manama had been in con- munity leaders in the country as early as Feb. 17 to orient them tact with Filipino community leaders there and briefed them on on the embassy’s contingency plans. contingency plans. Ambassador Corazon Yap-Bahjin released an advisory to “We are hopeful the political situation will stabilize, but pre- Filipinos on that same day to ask them to remain calm, actively cautionary measures are in place,” he said. monitor developments, keep their communication lines open The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has raised the alert with the embassy and their designated community coordina- level in Bahrain from level 1 (heightened alertness) to level 2 (re- tors, and inform the embassy or Filipino community coordina- striction of movement). tors of their whereabouts. “The DFA has raised the alert level to alert level 2. By this, The advisory also said that Filipinos should refrain from we are asking our nationals to restrict their movements to those going outdoors unless necessary; stock at least a two-week which are necessary, and to voluntarily depart Bahrain.” supply of food and water as well as medicines, flashlights, It is not yet necessary to raise the level to alert level 3 (vol- candles, mobile phones and radios; make sure that important untary repatriation), Seguis said. documents such as passports and driver’s licenses are read- Last Feb. 21, the DFA issued a travel advisory to defer non- ily available; and be sensitive to local culture, customs and urgent and non-essential travel to Bahrain. traditions, and religious beliefs in Bahrain, as well as avoid Countries such as the United Kingdom, Australia and New making comments or actions that may be considered politi- RENTAL Zealand have adopted similar measures. cally sensitive. (www.philstar.com)

(cont. from page 14; COUPLE ... ) from Christchurch,” Evelyn says. “For the next 10 days, we con- centrated on having fun and enjoying this beautiful country. And rival,” Evelyn says. “There was no water but the owner had a small we did! We felt so lucky to be alive and kicking!” artesian bore that at least gave us some water. In addition, there was a dry, comfortable bed, warm room, hot chocolate, coffee and HOME SWEET HOME tea, and toast with butter and honey for breakfast.” The couple arrived home safely in Cairns, Australia a few days later. They had retired to Cairns seven years earlier after liv- A HAPPY REUNION ing for nearly 30 years in Washington, D.C., where Doug worked The couple watched the news on TV and willed themselves as a World Bank officer, focusing in rural development and sus- to sleep despite the continuing aftershocks that periodically shook tainable environment. Evelyn, a Filipina, worked as a nutrition- the room throughout the night. Early the next morning, Doug used ist/food supervisor and most recently in real estate, travel and the motel’s computer and lo and behold, there was an email from the shipping industry. their long, lost friends. Evelyn says the first thing she did upon ar- “They had a similar story of their wandering and searching riving home was to clean the house and get her but they were okay and only a kilometer away from us,” Evelyn internet connection up-and-running in order to says. “After breakfast, we walked over and had an emotional re- let family and friends know that they had sur- union. We later decided to keep on with our travel plans.” vived the quake. But first things first. The Fornos and their friends spent the Looking back, Evelyn says she and her next two days getting a new rental vehicle, passports and medi- husband would not have survived the harrow- cines. They also contacted the hotel about lost personal effects ing experience on their own accord. and other matters. “Aside from Someone up above, it was They finally left Christchurch and ventured south—far away human endeavor that has kept us going, along from the epicenter. They visited a department store and loaded with very genuine support from New Zealanders up on the necessities…a change of clothes, toiletries, etc. throughout,” she says. “It’s a beautiful country “We felt better and more confident the further away we got and a wonderful place to visit.” HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 16 MARCH 19, 2011

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