Fil-Ams Warrior- inside Frisco-born Romance takes join UN turned-artist Xian gets taste backseat to World Youth promotes of making MTV UN for K.C. Assembly Filipiniana in America Concepcion Page 5 Page 16 Page 22 Page 22 MANILA MAIL A fortnightly Filipino Newspaper in Washington, D.C.

Vol. XXIV, No. 17 Online: www.manilamail.us August 16-31, 2015 Navigating challenges ASEAN calls out of caring for elders China on sea FAIRFAX, Va. Retired US Army Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba will US Secretary of State John Kerry and China’s share his family’s experience Foreign Minister Wang Yi talk at the 5th East Asia Summit at the 48th ASEAN foreign after the siblings learned ministers meeting in Kuala Lampur, Malay- their mother was dying of can- building frenzy sia Aug. 6. cer, which coupled with a de- mentia-stricken father, thrust By JUN MEDINA them into the unfamiliar role as caregivers during a talk ASHINGTON D.C. here on Aug. 29. China’s land rec- “My siblings and I were in lamation in the constant arguments,” he in- W timated. “I was going home South China Sea has “in- to Hawaii every other month. creased tensions” in the Eventually I had to quit my region, the Association of job. Care giving is exhausting and can be very turbulent,” he Southeast Nations (ASE- said in an interview published AN) said at the close of in the Fairfax Connection. its just-concluded For- Taguba leads a panel that eign Ministers Meeting ...... in Kuala Lumpur, Malay- NAVIGATING P21 sia. This alarming declaration was contained in the joint com- muniqué of the top-level meeting of the 10-member regional bloc, even as United States Secretary of State John Kerry served notice that Washington would not toler- ate any restrictions on freedom of navigation in the strategically Ex-DILG Sec. Mar Roxas important waters. with Pres. Aquino “Let me be clear: the United States will not accept restric- BACK TO SUBIC: The Los Angeles-class nuclear-powered submarine USS Chicago docks at Subic Bay, Phil- P-Noy ‘anoints’ tions on freedom of navigation ippines. She’s 360 feet long and weighs 7,000 tons when submerged, according to a fact sheet from the ...... US Embassy in Manila. She has a crew of 170 offi cers and men, including a number of Filipino Americans. Roxas but ASEAN P21 The port call coincided with the regional forum in Malaysia. ‘winnability’ GOP debate draws huge audience as Democrats eye Biden bid doubts linger MANILA. It had been a WASHINGTON D.C. The Republi- only 3.2 million viewers. The pre- much-touted political event can party showed off its bench vious record, broadcast by ABC since last year, so when Presi- for next year’s presidential during the same election cycle, dent Benigno Aquino III final- elections and drew a record au- reached 7.6 million. Trump’s ly “anointed” Local Govern- dience on Fox, the first of a se- show “The Celebrity Apprentice” ment Secretary Mar Roxas ries of televised debates that, if used to reach 20 million viewers last month as the ruling Lib- all goes according to plan, will a week but has plummeted in eral Party’s standard bearer help the party faithful choose a about six million for recent sea- – and Daang Matuwid’s new candidate who can actually win sons. poster boy – it signaled the a national election. Immigration was one of the unofficial kick-off to the Phil- On the other hand, the race subjects in the debate. Google ippines’ political season. for the Democratic presidential Trends data showed it was the Roxas’ anointment as the nomination took a fresh twist 4th most search topic on the GOP official administration presi- after Vice President Joe Biden debate issue. dential candidate in the 2016 refused to rule out a possible Trump, running ahead in the elections will pit him against run and challenge the leading pack of 17 candidates according Vice President Jejomar Binay, candidate, Hillary Clinton. THE LONG RED LINE: Front-running GOP candidates face off at the to a variety of polls, refused to now estranged from the Aqui- The Fox GOP debate last Aug. fi rst televised debate on Fox that drew a record audience back down from previous alle- no administration and the 6 was watched by 24 million of those viewers were drawn by ensured voters got a chance to gations that Mexico is sending opposition’s standard bearer viewers, according to Nielsen the promise of fireworks from get a measure of the candidates. criminals into the US although running under the UNA party. data, the highest-rating primary Donald Trump is uncertain but In contrast, the first GOP pri- ...... debate in history. Just how many the unprecedented TV ratings mary debate four years ago drew GOP DEBATE P20 P-NOY P20 2 MANILA MAIL August 16-31, 2015 August 16-31, 2015 NEWS Manila Mail 3 New Obama guidelines Immigration influx turning Virginia blue FAIRFAX, Va. The influx of immigrants is patch. fueling the transformation in the Common- “Virginia’s demographic changes have wealth of Virginia, explaining in part why also transformed political leanings in the reduce illegals on this previously “solid red” state is turning state that, before President Barack Obama’s blue, according to a study by the University win of electoral votes in 2008, had not of Virginia. backed a Democratic presidential candidate priority deportation “Until 1970, only one in 100 Virginians since 1964,” the paper said in a 2012 ar- was born outside of the United States; ticle. ASHINGTON D.C. About 9½ million of the estimated 11 by 2012, one in every 9 Virginians is for- This seemed to reaffirm perceptions that million undocumented immigrants in the United States eign-born,” the 2014 UVA report entitled the GOP has been largely ineffective in win- would be shielded from deportation under the guidelines “Immigrants in Virginia” said. ning over immigrants. A report by Reuters’ W The UVA survey noted that the immigrant Andy Sullivan claimed that “Immigrants laid down by President Obama’s executive orders, according to an population in Virginia has grown more favor Democratic candidates and liberal analysis by the Migrant Policy Institute (MPI). mixed over the years. “The set of sending policies by a wide margin, and they have countries is much more diverse, with most moved formerly competitive states like Il- The MPI report released of the immigrants from either Asia (42 per- linois firmly into the Democratic column last month showed that cent) or Latin America (35 percent) while and could turn Republican strongholds like only 13 percent of undoc- Europe (10 percent) and Africa (10 percent) Georgia and Texas into battlegrounds in the umented immigrants have lag far behind.” years to come.” criminal records or recent- The top five countries of birth for the The UVA study also analyzed the drivers ly crossed the US border foreign-born population of Virginia in 2012 that shape this transformation in Virgin- illegally. Under the Obama were El Salvador, India, Mexico, the Phil- ia: ippines and South Korea. More than two- Age was identified as a key factor. For administration’s new de- thirds live in Northern Virginia and account the foreign-born, it noted the “dispropor- portation guidelines, an- for 23 percent of the population. tionately large” share of 24-44 year-olds, nounced in November and In the decade 1990 to 2000, the in- the “golden age for participating in the put into effect July 1, these crease in the number of foreign-born in workforce”. The result is labor force par- individuals will be a prior- Fairfax communities included 323 percent ticipation for natives is about 65 percent ity for deportation. for Centreville; 168 percent for Herndon; compared to more than 73 percent for for- The MPI’s Marc Rosen- 88 percent for Fairfax City; 78 percent for eign-born, who comprise 15 percent of Vir- blum, who wrote the re- Springfield; 63 percent for Burke; and 10 ginia’s workforce. port, said this “would percent for McLean. Most foreign-born residents are also at effectively offer a degree ries of unauthorized immi- cure Communities infor- “Immigrants to this region come from that stage of raising families, the report of protection to the vast grants and other potential- mation-sharing program nearly every country in the world, and added. “Their presence is a significant con- majority – 87 percent – of ly removable non-citizens with the new Priority En- some localities are home to people from tributor to non-native diversity within the unauthorized immigrants are priorities for enforce- forcement Program (PEP), more than 100 countries,” Audrey Singer, a Commonwealth. Migration not only brings now residing in the United ment. Top on the list are il- which focuses on targeting senior fellow in metropolitan policy at the news people into the state but many im- States.” Brookings Institution, was quoted in a re- migrants who settle here have families and legal immigrants who are individuals convicted of port by the Fairfax Connection community their children will add to the demographic The President’s execu- national security threats, significant criminal of- newspaper. diversification of Virginia.” tive action on immigration gang members, convicted fenses. This changing demographic has brought Significantly, while the influence of con- includes two key policy felons and recent border As a result the share of changes in the political landscape of Vir- servative voters in Virginia continues to changes from which the crossers. unauthorized immigrants ginia as well. diminish, Republican officials, including results of the report come. The second major deemed to be “enforcement “The population shift, most notably in former House Majority Leader Eric Cantor, First, the Department change in the adminis- priorities” has decreased Northern Virginia, is changing the state’s have led the push for some aspects of im- of Homeland Security tration’s policies that the from 27 percent under the educational, political and social land- migration reform such as the foreign worker (DHS) issued new policy report addresses is the 2010-11 policy guidelines scape,” observed the Richmond Times Dis- visa program. guidance on which catego- replacement of the Se- to just 13 percent. 4 Manila Mail NEWS August 16-31, 2015 AFP modernization stumbles on P-Noy’s signature MANILA. President Benigno Aquino III committed for military modernization. has steered Congress into passing an un- Top administration officials signed precedented military modernization bill, a flurry of defense contracts valued setting aside billions of dollars for new at $834 million in late 2013 and early equipment; but when it reached his desk, 2014, including deals for a dozen Kore- he refused to sign the measure. an-made F/A-50 combat jets, three Air- Defense experts are puzzled by the bus transport planes and a new fleet of President’s apparent wavering after push- combat helicopters from Canada and the ing so hard for an unprecedented rise in Great Britain. defense spending, largely as a response to But presidential spokesman Hermin- fears of continued Chinese encroachment io Coloma admitted the President, who on the nation’s maritime territory in the steps down in June, still hasn’t signed a South China Sea. law passed by Congress in February 2013 President Aquino has pledged to spend earmarking $2 billion for defense pro- $1.7 billion on new equipment, more than curement. No one could apparently pry an the past three presidents combined have explanation. August 16-31, 2015 NEWS Manila Mail 5 Fil-Ams join UN Youth Assembly By JENNIE L. ILUSTRE EW YORK. Nineteen Filipino Ameri- Ncans were among a thousand delegates in the US and around the world who attended the (ABOVE) a comprehensive briefing on UN World Youth Assembly at Fil-Am history, Millennium Goals and delegates the Philippines. the United Nations, held interact on August 4-7 in New with coun- “MHC started the program of terparts sending delegates to the UN World York. The conference is from other Youth Assembly in 2011 to expose welcomed by UN Sec- countries. them to the workings of the UN, retary-General Ban Ki- (LEFT) The human rights and international Youth As- law orientation and issues relat- moon and endorsed by sembly at ed to the Millennium goals,” said the United UN Secretary-General Nations in Attorney Valera, who is also US Envoy on Youth Ahmad New York on Country Director of Manav Seva Aug. 6 Charitable Society affiliated with Alhendawi. UNDESA and UN-ECOSO, World The Assembly’s alumni net- Human Rights Council. “Like- work, the International Youth wise, we want them to learn how Council, has over 5,000 active the Philippines is addressing the members and is currently im- presidents or prime ministers expansion program to include cant improvement in the battle goals of reducing poverty and the plementing 18 projects in 10 and other policy makers, as well youth who are active volunteers against corruption…and we pressing issue of malnutrition cri- countries. It empowers youth to as potential CEOs of top compa- at MHC, Vietnamese American have brought down infant mor- sis in the Philippines.” actively engage in the success of nies,” he stressed. Michael Tran was added to the tality.” The challenge, he said, He added: “We need to develop the UN Millennium Development The Fil-Am delegates are delegation this year. “is to reduce the poverty level.” Fil-Am leaders who will help us in Goals, and the transition to the MHC Young Envoys of Unity and The briefing for the delegates He took the occasion to urge our advocacy and form collective Post 2015 Development Agenda. Service. They were: Grizaldy was held on July 29 at the embas- them to vote in next year’s US international opinions against The Friendship Ambassadors Abella, Hannah Bush, Solenn sy. In his inspirational message, presidential elections, or If they China’s acts of aggression in the Foundation established the con- Cabrera, Bea Cajayon, Angela Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. are dual citizens, to register South China Seas or West Philip- ference. Devanadera, Angela Nicole Di- expressed confidence in them, to vote at the embassy for the pine Seas and the Spratly Islands, The conference has unique zon, Ma. Patricia J’Nell Dizon, urging them to fully engage Philippine elections. Cuisia is respect for territorial integrity networking potentials, said Andrew Domingo, Mark Ford, in the conference discussions. the first ambassador to tap the by all UN member-countries, re- Migrant Heritage Commission Isabelle Garcia, Sunshine Has- He said the Philippines can be potentials of the Filipino Amer- spect for the rule of law and most (MHC) Co-Executive Director sell, Susan Hoffman, Gale Lota, proud of achieving major Mil- ican youth across the nation. important, compliance by China Arnedo S. Valera during a brief- Nikkie Navarro, Joshua Pulleng, lennium goals. “We rank very The idea, he has said, actually on the provisions of UNCLOS and ing for the delegates. “Among the Kealsey Sajol, Jessica Tardencil- high on gender equality, we have belonged to his wife, Mrs. Ma. mechanisms established by the youth they will meet are the next la, Alexander Valera, Raymund had two women presidents,” he Victoria Cuisia. At the program, UN for peaceful resolutions of ter- generation of leaders–future Valera Jaramillo. As part of an added. “We have made signifi- Consul Darrell Artates also gave ritorial conflicts.” 6 Manila Mail NEWS August 16-31, 2015 ‘Gringo’, Villanueva charged for role in pork barrel scam ANILA. The Justice Department has The Department of Jus- ueva (currently director atsing, La Union Rep. Vic- tice (DOJ) filed the com- general of the Technical tor Francisco Ortega, and accused another batch of lawmak- plaint August 7 before the Education & Skills Dev’t ers led by Sen. Gregorio Honasan of Party List Rep. Conrado M Office of the Ombudsman Authority), Cagayan de Estrella III, among others. benefitting from the multibillion-peso pork against Honasan, former Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, They were charged with barrel scam. Party List Rep. Joel Villan- Manila Rep. Amado Bag- malversation, direct brib- ery, and violation of the An- ti-Graft and Corrupt Prac- tices Act. They allegedly diverted their Priority De- velopment Assistance Fund (PDAF) allocations to sup- posed bogus non-govern- ment organizations (NGOs) set up by alleged pork scam mastermind Janet Lim Na- poles. Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said some of the Sen. Gregorio Honasan accused, like Villanueva, have claimed that their signatures in the docu- ments were forged and not authentic. Villanueva is identified as a political ally of Pres- ident Aquino. Honasan, on the other hand, has long been associated with for- mer Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, his former boss at the martial law-era Ministry of National De- fense who is on “hospital arrest” while being tried for his own alleged role in TESDA Dir. Gen. Joel the pork barrel scam. Villanueva A 2nd batch of officials up to the Ombudsman to was charged earlier this determine whether the year and was led by former charges should proceed to Customs Commissioner Ru- preliminary investigation fino Biazon and 33 others. or later to indictment be- De Lima said it is now fore the Sandiganbayan. August 16-31, 2015 MANILA MAIL 7

Navigating the Caregiver’s Maze:

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General Taguba Join AARP and the Philippine American Foundation for Charities (PAFC) for a special event with Retired

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Veronica Li Leo Duran Learn about local resources that are available to help you take care of your parents and loved ones.

Local representatives from these organizations will be on- Saturday, August 29 site to answer questions and provide information: 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon  Alzheimer’s Association® National Capital Area Chapter  Fairfax County Services for Older Adults Fairfax County Government Center  Fairfax County Adult Day Health Center Board Auditorium  InovaCares for Seniors – PACE® 12000 Government Center  Northern Virginia Resource Center for Deaf and Hard of Parkway | Fairfax, VA 22035 Hearing Persons

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To request special accommodations, call 1-877-926-8300 or Toll-Free TTY: 1-877-434-7598. Please allow two working days in advance of the event in order to make the necessary arrangements. 8 Manila Mail NEWS August 16-31, 2015 Watchdogs warn vs raiding Yolanda rehab coff er for 2016 polls ANILA. Officials dismissed speculation that money intend- ed for the reconstruction of areas devastated by super ty- Mphoon Yolanda/Haiyan in November 2013 might be used to bankroll the candidacy of administration bets in May’s national elections. Catholic Charities (Caritas) Philip- pines Executive Secretary Fr. Edwin Gariguez suspects the government was delaying the release of funds because of the coming elections. The government has spent P73.5 billion (about $1.75 billion) out of the P170 billion (about $4 billion) budget for the program. United Nations special rapporteur Chaloka Beyani said earlier that the ad- ministration of President Aquino has not A permanent shelter built by Caritas Hol- land for Yolanda surevivors is blessed by done enough to rebuild after Yolanda, Borongan Bishop Crispin Varquez. pointing to the thousands of people who remained in shanties without power or ($656.16 million). water for nearly two years. He said the National Housing Authority The destruction caused by Yolanda also received P22 billion ($481.19 million) prompted the country's biggest reconstruc- for its own construction activities. tion effort since the end of World War II. Abad said the rest of the funds for Yolan- Former Sen. Panfilo Lacson, appointed da-hit areas will be released in the second by President Aquino to oversee the Yolan- half of 2015. He noted that the P167 billion da rehabilitation efforts blamed the slow (about $3.5 billion) Yolanda fund was sup- release of funds for the lack of progress. posed to be disbursed from 2014 to 2016. This prompted Budget Secretary Flor- Lacson, who is eyeing a presidential encio Abad to reveal that the government run next year, discounted the possibility has released P89 billion (about $2.1 bil- the rehabilitation funds will be used for lion) for Yolanda-hit areas as of last June. politics. He resigned as “rehabilitation He said this money mostly went to the czar” last February. emergency shelter assistance program Meanwhile, the Australian government and the relief operations of the Depart- turned over on July 28 housing units to ment of Social Welfare and Development around to 1,533 families left homeless by (DSWD). The DSWD received P30 billion super typhoon Yolanda in Leyte Island. August 16-31, 2015 MANILA MAIL 9

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5224 Eisenhower Avenue Alexandria, VA 22304 August 16-31, 2015 NEWS 13 P-Noy hit for ‘snub’ of fallen SAF commandos MANILA. Malacañang drew brickbats following the an- niversary rites for the Phil- ippine National Police (PNP) last August 7 after a per- ceived snub of the “SAF-44” – the group of police comman- dos killed in a botched raid to capture a top Malaysian terrorist in Mindanao earlier this year. The PNP marked its 114th anniversary at the national headquarters in Camp Cra- me. Delivering the keynote address, President Aquino praised falling criminality but ignored the Jan. 25 deba- (ABOVE) President Benigno Aquino III troops the line at the 114th anniversary rites of the Philippine National Police in cle in Mamasapano, Maguin- Camp Crame last Aug. 7. danao that led to the death of 44 members of the PNP Spe- (LEFT) Roselle Nacino, widow of SAF PO2 Nicky Nacino shows cial Action Force (SAF) – one their child mural honoring his father and the rest of the 44 of the biggest single day loss- slain SAF commandos es for the government. Although the raid led to the death of fugitive terrorist Zu- lkifli Abdhir (alias Marwan), IF YOU DID SHORT SALES FOR ALMOST the involvement of suspended PNP Director General Alan Purisima, who was reporting 3 YEARS NOW OR MORE, CALL ME!! directly to President Aquino at the time, and lack of coor- JOCELYN P. PORTERIA dination with the army made Realtor® ABR, CDPE the operational highly sus- pect and controversial. ASP® Accredited Staging Professionals® The names of slain SAF trooper PO2 Romeo Cempron and survivor Supt. Raymund Train were included in the original list of awardees but were removed from the pro- gram. Five-Star Reviews Cempron was supposed Top Producer of Fairfax Realty Inc. to posthumously receive the Visit my Facebook page at Medal of Valor, the highest service medal of the PNP, for https://www.facebook.com/realdealconsulting sacrificing himself so that to see five-star reviews from buyers and sellers PO2 Christopher Lalan, the lone survivor from the 55th Special Action Company, “It’s not always about the numbers, it’s about helping people ...” could escape. “The Office of the Presi- dent has no participation in the selection of police officers and individuals that were giv- en recognition in connection with the 114th anniversary of the [PNP],” Communications Secretary Sonny Coloma said 3190 Fairview Park Dr., Suite 100 in a statement. Falls Church, VA 22042 “The President did not Cell: 571.432.8335 wait long to recognize what they had done for the country. [email protected] The administration did ev- www.jprealdeal.com erything that was needed to be done to address the needs of their families,” he stressed. We are the Clanors from Fairfax, Virginia. However, the Philippine SELLERS: We would like to share with everyone how Jocelyn Daily Inquirer, citing un- Let me stage your home helped us find our new home. She does not know named sources, said Cem- this yet but we considered her our “guardian angel” pron’s and Train’s names to sell faster and more $$$ during the entire process of hunting for a new were allegedly removed on house. She guided us every step of the way from the the verbal instruction of the very beginning until the end. We really liked her Presidential Management BUYERS: bubbly personality that lessened our anxiety and Staff to Camp Crame. frustration at times. She made everything so easy The new PNP chief, Direc- Get the most deal on a transaction and in a timely manner that it did not disrupt our tor General Ricardo Marquez daily schedule both at work and with the kids’ explained that the evaluation through professional negotiations activities . She was very professional and honest but process for the higher awards most of all a beautiful person. We could go on and needs longer time. One offi- on about how satisfied and happy we were with the cial claimed the awards given SHORT SALES: entire experience . Jojie, let us take this opportunity last week were for achieve- to thank you from the bottom of our hearts . The ments in 2014. Most of my clients received from kids are truly enjoying their own room. Jocelyn Two days after the Camp $3,000 up to $10,000 relocation helped us find a home not only once, but twice. Crame celebration, the SAF And if we move again, we would definitely ask her held its own ceremonies in assistance with debts totally to help us another time. We would like to say “ their headquarters in Camp Jojie, IKAW NA …. ANG REYNA !!!!! Bagong Diwa in Taguig to forgiven honor comrades killed in “Oplan Exodus”, the top-se- cret but costly anti-terror op- Visit my website at www.jprealdeal.com eration. 14 NEWS August 16-31, 2015 Fil-Am leader bats for more funding for Fairfax senior centers SPRINGFIELD, Va. Filipi- no American community activist Corazon Foley lashed out at Springfield District Supervisor Pat Herrity for allegedly spurning calls to back a proposal to use part of a $47 million budget sur- plus for senior centers. “It would be appre- ciated if you could stop ignoring our request for meetings and emails from seniors in the Burke/West Springfield Senior Cen- ter without Walls,” Foley PAT HERRITY CORAZON FOLEY wrote Aug. 4 in an open been requesting for eight unforeseen needs. letter to Herrity. years,” Foley wrote. Foley criticized Herr- Foley is running a Fairfax County posted ity for ignoring their re- largely self-funded cam- a $46.91 million budget quest for meetings. “We paign as an independent surplus in the fiscal year ask that the incumbent do for Herrity’s position in ending last June 30. Of- this job and provide the the November local polls. ficials have proposed to leadership, community She has been advocat- spend over $19 million for engagement and effective ing for more support for the Fairfax County Public negotiating skills to im- Fairfax County senior Schools; about $18 million prove the quality of life home facilities. “This for funding county re- for Springfield residents, would be a good opportu- serves and infrastructure including senior taxpay- nity for Supervisor Her- needs; and nearly $4 mil- ers and their families,” rity to request funds for lion for addressing critical she wrote. infrastructure repairs mental health issues and She pointed out there that could provide the ac- waiting lists for the School are 17 permanent senior tivity spaces that we in Age Child Care (SACC) centers spread out in oth- the Burke/West Spring- program. About $6 million er districts but Spring- field Senior Center have will be held in reserve for field had none. August 16-31, 2015 MANILA MAIL 15

Compiled By MAURESE O. OWENS DC-MD-VA (Editor’s Note: Please email details about your event to [email protected]. Follow the format below starting with month, Calendar of Events day and time, etc. Events listed here are subject to change, so readers are advised to contact the organizers.) AUG 15 (Saturday) 5:00 p.m. SEP 26 (Saturday) 6:00 p.m.-12:00 Dinner Dance Festival. Fort Myer ty Center Park, Fort Washing- 8:00 p.m. Diocese of Arlington -10:00 p.m. Mayon Global Foun- mn. BAMWDC Sarung Banggi. Far Community Center, 224 McNair ton, MD. Registration Fee: $30 Youth Rally. Presented by Mary- dation, Summer Luau and “Ang East Restaurant, 5055 Nicholson Road, Fort Myer, VA $35. Proceeds ($35 onsite/race day). Includes mount University, Arlington, VA. Mutya, Nation’s Capital 2015” 2nd Lane Rockville, MD 20852 $65.00 to benefit APDACAA’s various hu- T-Shirt, Finisher Medal, Tote Special guest: Paul Kim, Singer, Counting. Argyle Community Cen- Contact: Delia B. Rafuson 703-532- manitarian projects in the U.S. and Bag. Trophies for Top 3 Winners. Speaker, Inspirer with other en- ter 1030 Forest Glen Road Silver 2089. the Philippines. Contact: Boy Luna Contact: Vivian Sola at viv8747@ tertainers too follow, Live Band, Spring MD. Dinner Dance with ...... 240. 723.6363. aol.com and Mass with Bishop Loverde. $25 counted as votes for your can- SEP 25-27 Pilgrimage to Philadel- ...... Estimate cost: $25.00 per partici- didate. Hawaiian attire preferred, phia for the World Meeting of Fam- OCT 3 (Saturday) 5:00 p.m.- OCT 17 (Saturday) 6:00 p.m.- pant (youth and adults), Includes leis provided. Contact: email- ilies and the Mass with Pope Fran- 10:00 p.m. Mayon Global Foun- 12:00 mn. Mayon Global Foun- entertainment, a T-shirt, dinner, mayon.global.foundation@gmail. cis. Open to all 9th-12th graders. dation Final Counting “Ang dation Annual Gala & Corona- and snacks. Details to follow: reg- com or call/text: Nellie Orino: 301- Cost: $200 includes deluxe motor Mutya, Nation’s Capital 2015.” tion “Ang Mutya, Nation’s Capital ister under Filipino Ministry of 332-3999. coach transportation, accommo- Argyle Community Center 1030 2015”. Gaithersburg Hilton, Gaith- NOVA. Contact: filipinoministry@ ...... dations @ youth retreat center, Forest Glen Road Silver Spring ersburg MD. Dinner Buffet and catholicweb.com AUG 15 (Saturday) 6:00 p.m.- some meals, pilgrimage T-shirts MD. Dinner/Dance party with a dancing. Music provided by the ...... 11:00 p.m. Mabuhay, Inc. 30th and credentials. Access to Papal $25 per person donation counted TUTUBI Band and DJ Bonnie. OCT 24 (Saturday) Feed the Hun- Anniversary Ball. Camelot by Mass and other activities. Limit- as 25 votes for your candidate. $75 per person donation will be gry Handog Gala . Hilton Mark Martins, 13905 Central Ave., Up- ed-Adult Groups leaders are need- Contact: email mayon.global. counted as 75 votes towards your Center. $75/person ($85 after Oct. per Marlboro, MD 20774. Ticket: ed (age 21 and older). Adult leaders [email protected] or call/ candidate if paid before the Oct 3 10); $100 Individual Sponsor for $60.00 prepaid ($65.00 at the door). must sign Conduct Covenant. Con- text: Vangie Miller: 301-250-5085. final counting. To: RSVP and/or prime seating. Check payable RSVP: Joy Arrellano 301-520-5189. tact: [email protected] ...... support a candidate: Marlyn Bay- to: Feed the Hungry, Inc. Mail to ...... OCT 10 (Saturday) Philippine sa/301-318-0709. Dulce Guevara, Event Treasurer, AUG 29 (Saturday) 8:30 a.m.- OCT 3 (Saturday) 7:00 p.m.- 12:00 Nurses Assn of MDC 3K Fun Run/ ...... 15200 Candyluft Lane, Rockville, 12:00 noon. PAFC-AARP Nav- mn. APODCAA Octoberfest 2015 Walk. Tucker Road Communi- OCT 18 (Sunday) 12:00 noon- MD 20853. igating The Caregiver’s Maze: Finding Support And Planning Your Caregiviving Journey. Fair- fax County Government Cen- ter Board Auditorium. 12000 Government Center Parkway Fairfax, VA. Speakers: Maj.Gen. Antonio Taguba, advocate for caregivers and families; Sharon Lynn, Director, Fairfax Agency on Aging; Ben de Guzman, Na- tional Managing Director, Diverse Elders Coalition; Leo Duran, a family caregiver and Veronica Li, author of Confucius Says. Event is free. Complimentary refreshments and lunch provided. RESERVE YOUR SEAT by calling 1-877-926- 8300 or on-line at aarp.cvent.com/ Fairfax829VA. Complimentary refreshments and lunch provided. Questions: Call Mya Grossman at [email protected] ...... AUG 29 (Saturday) 12:00 noon- 10:00 p.m. Asian Festival. Rosecroft Raceway, 6336 Rosecroft Dr, Fort Washington, MD 20744 ...... AUG 29 (Saturday) starts at 6:00. PAMWE 35th Annual Fundraising Gala. Fairview Park Marriott 3111 Fairview Park Drive, Falls Church, VA 22042. Attire: Semi-Formal. Semi-formal. $80. Contact: Carl Layno (703) 282-6690 or carl.lay- [email protected] ...... SEP 5 (Saturday) 8:30 a.m.- 4:00 p.m. PNAMDC Leadership Institute Offering: Journey to In- novation and Excellence Thru HEALTH: Health, Empowerment, Advancement, Leadership, Trans- formation and Healing. Philippine Multicultural Center Cost: FREE. Contact: Lorna Siedel 443-240- 5713 ...... SEP 12 (Saturday) 6:00 p.m.- 11:30 p.m. Bicol Association of MWDC Second Annual Penafran- cia Fundraising Rendezvouz Social Dance and Fitness Club, 11910 Parklawn Drive Rockville MD 20852. $25.00. Contact: Rening Sosing 301-345-2620...... SEP 19 (Saturday) starts at 8:00 a.m. ANCOP Global Walk. Start and Finish Line @ Jaycees Com- munity Center, 6907 Oxon Hill Rd.,Oxon Hill, MD. Register at wwww.ancopusawalk.org. Con- tact: 240-442-6267...... SEP 19 (Saturday) 6:00 p.m.- 12:00 mn. Ilocano International Association First Anniversary Gala. Far East Restaurant, 5055 Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD 20852. $45 ($55 at door) Contact: Helen Pelegrin 240-899-2115. 16 Manila Mail FEATURES August 16-31, 2015 Warrior-artist pushes advocacy in Virginia art scene AIRFAX, Va. Gabriel Riego de Rios and art have had a lifelong romance, each drawing the other under the most implausible situations – a sol- Fdier swapping his rifle for a brush; later, laid off from a Silicon Valley job, he somehow finds work in a Bay Area art shop where shortly after, he decides to become a professional artist.

He was influenced by his “lola” and parents who loved to dabble in the arts. Still, he pur- sued a profession that seemed distant from his passions; he was commissioned as an army lieutenant after graduating from the Philippine Military Acade- my – the country’s equivalent of Riego de Rios as a young army West Point – in 1981. lieutenant sitting atop a hill in Bukidnon (far left), and in As he led patrols in the hin- the woods of Virginia (above). terlands, he told his soldiers that He chooses subjects that off er if ever he’s wounded in battle, snippets of the Philippines he they should make sure they tend grew up in. At left is a sample of his work, “Kapatid Ko, Kaya first to the camera and watercol- Ko”. or set he always carried in his backpack. But by 1990, as social workshops on the Filipiniana injustice continued to fester and theme. In December he will be after several failed mutinies split Fil-Am mother. the featured artist at the Vienna the military, he became disillu- He recounted that during Arts Society gallery. sioned. “I hated politics,” he told one his shows, he overheard the Before leaving the PMA, he the Manila Mail, “it was the same decided he would be a full- I have finally realized my life’s mother struggling to explain painted “Strongheart” symboliz- old faces, same old problems; time, committed artist. passion,” he enthused, “I am his painting of a woman using ing continuity in the cadet corps there was no real change.” “I have always been in search now blissfully happy and totally a woven basket to separate rice (his classmate and Herndon, Va. He resigned from the Phil- of a distinct identity in the use at peace with a brush in hand, husks. “I had to explain to both resident Harold Ochoco stood as ippine Army and settled in of the brush,” he said, “Whether a color palette by my side and of them what the woman (in the the model), in one corner of Lon- California’s Bay Area, thanks it be a landscape, a figure or an a blank canvas to work on.” He painting) was doing,” he said gayban Hall, where the Acade- to his mother who is a US citi- abstract, it has always been such signs his works “Gabriego”. amusedly. Though the mother my welcomes VIP guests. When zen. He worked with a Silicon a struggle.” He moved to Virginia in 2007. and child were part Filipino, it they hold one of their frequent Valley firm but a recession in He absorbed the San Fran- Some of his works hang inside was apparently their first intro- PMA alumni get-togethers, he the late 90s left him jobless. cisco art scene, attending work- the Sweet City Desserts pastry duction to the basket, a common ribs Ochoco about the painting, When the manager of an art shops by master portraitist Bob shop in Vienna, Va. owned by sight especially in the Philippine “They won’t forget us for a long supply store he frequented of- Gerbracht and colorist Michael Fil-Am realtor and entrepreneur countryside. time.” fered him a job, he took it even Linstrom who’ve influenced his Manny Tagle. “I want to create awareness Today, he aims to build an- if the pay was just a fraction impressionist style, using broad Gaby, as friends call him, has through painting Filipiniana,” other legacy, the warrior-artist of his old wages. He finally strokes and robust colors. mounted an advocacy to promote he declared. He has reached out proudly spreading his Filipino became immersed in his “first “After what seemed to be a Philippine culture, born partly to students at George Mason Uni- heritage in this corner of the love” and by the year 2000 he lifetime search for my true self, out of a chance encounter with a versity, offering to conduct art world.

‘Tour’ participant veers to help school kid WASHINGTON D.C. The picture of of my trip to Cebu,” said Rumy. homeless nine-year-old Daniel Daniel said in an interview Cabrera propped by an impro- with Rappler.com that the cor- vised bench he positioned on the ner near the McDonald’s had sidewalk beside a McDonald’s so become his self-designated he could have some illumination study room. While other chil- to finish his school homework dren his age played in the went viral after a passerby post- streets, he worked on his as- ed the image on Facebook. The signment. “The lessons are not heart-wrenching picture opened that hard,” he said, revealing the flood gate of help for the boy, that he dreams about becoming including a visitor from Virgin- a cop or doctor one day. ia who peeled away from a tour Daniel, a younger brother group to search for Daniel. Daniel Cabrera (left) with the and their single mother Chris- Rumy Mohta, a familiar solar study lamp from Rumy tina Espinosa live in a street face in the Fil-Am community Mohta (right). “carinderia” that has no walls of Richmond and the Hampton ippine officials and a visit to to protect them from the rain or Roads region, is married to Malacanang to possibly get cold. Christina says she occa- Filipina Marj Mohta and owns their picture taken with Presi- sionally accepts laundry work a solar energy firm in the Phil- dent Aquino. to augment the P60 (about $1.40) ippines. The couple was part But that photo-op wasn’t the she earns from the “carinderia” of about 200 people who joined highlight of this year’s tour, at on a good day. the 10th Ambassador’s, Con- least for the Mohta couple. “Our They live in such a danger- suls-General and Tourism Di- stay in Cebu was extended due to ous neighborhood, the report rectors Tour (ACGTDT) earlier bad weather. It turned out to be said, that Daniel keeps a rosary this month. a blessing,” said Rumy, who has in his school bag to protect his The tour was launched in chaired Fil-Am organizations lone pencil from thieves. 2005 to help Fil-Ams rediscov- in Richmond and donated solar “I thank Rumy for his er their roots; find ways to give study lamps to Gawad Kalinga thoughtfulness and generosity,” back or invest in the country, villages in Bulacan and Payatas, said Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia and for interested Americans, Quezon City in the past. Jr. “I am certain that his gift of the opportunity to experience They visited Daniel’s school solar study lamps has inspired the Philippines in a special way. in Cebu and donated the lamps Daniel and the other children to This picture of 9-year-old Daniel Cabrera doing his school home- work against the odds spread through social media and tugged at The ACGTDT usually includes to him and other kids there. continue working hard on their the heart of people all over the world, including Richmond, Va.- meets-and-greet with top Phil- “This was one of the highlights studies.” based Rumy and Marj Mohta. August 16-31, 2015 MANILA MAIL 17

MHC leaders presented a Plaque of Appreciation to Ambas- sador Cuisia. Grace Valera holds the 2014 Philippine Presi- dential Medal to MHC. Replicas were given to the delegates.

Consul Darrell Artates Delegates with Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. (center). briefi ng the delegates. Ambassador Cuisia Congratulates MHC Delegates to UN Youth Assembly o matter how busy he is, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. always makes time for the youth and the young professionals in the Filipino American community across the US. On July 29, he took pride in having Filipino American participants to the August N4-7 World Youth Assembly at the United Nations in New York. He spent 30 minutes of his busy presentation, Consul Darrell a Healthy Life that Matters.”. well as delegates’ parents Ronaldo Lota schedule and delivered an inspirational Artates deftly briefed Most of this year’s batch and Sonia Kidlat. talk, a briefing (even initiating a the delegates on the are youth leaders/active Attorney Valera, who as a certified Q&A period), and gamely posed for Philippines and the UN. MHC volunteers and the pastor carries the title Reverend, added, pictures. Cuisia urged the delegates young ladies from ISA's “This is also the first time that we have to engage in civic and empowerment Opportunities Miss Teen Philippines- chosen a delegate from Vietnam, Michal activities in Mainstream America and MHC Co-Executive America Pageant. They Tran, to join the Fil-Am delegation. We in the Philippines. Remarked MHC Directors Grace have been designated as are expanding in the near future to Co-Executive Director Arnedo S. Valera Jaramillo and MHC Youth EnvoysThis include young leaders of the immigrant Valera: “Since we started this program, Jesse Gatchalian have year's delegation were community who have been helping the Ambassador Cuisia has been fully accompanied the delegation led by two MHC Youth MHC programs in the US.” supportive of our delegation to the UN for the last four years in New Advocates, Raymund Valera MHC was founded in 2005 mainly Youth Assembly.” York. They said the conference Jaramillo (as Lead Shepherd) inspired by the 1990 UN International The briefing at the embassy offers opportunities for the MHC Young and Alex Valera (as Group Leader) and Convention on the Protection of the Rights included the presentation of a Plaque Envoys of Unity and Service “to raise Mark Ford/Isabelle Garcia as Deputies. of All Migrant Workers and Members of of Appreciation to Cuisia, as well as their level of awareness about the Accompanying the delegates were Their families. It sent its first delegation the sharing and awarding of MHC United Nations and acquire leadership MHC Envoys for Unity & Service Velma to the UN World Youth Assembly in Presidential Banaag Awards to all the skills.” The annual participation is part Taboada, Florentina Pantalunan- August 2011, after the successful delegates by the ambassador and the of MHC’s Youth Development Program, Dinglas and Bienvenido Dinglas, convening of its First International three MHC leaders. In a Power Point “Preparing Leaders of Tomorrow–Living Estrela Cacal and Estela Patricio, as Summit of Migrant Workers.

MHC Youth Envoy Delegates Galeanne Lota & Josh Pulleng inside the United Nations General Assembly Hall. Behind is Ronald Lota, one of MHC adult Envoys offi cially accompanying the MHC Youth delegates.

MHC Youth envoy delegates Zaldy, Michael and Andrew at the UN General Assembly Hall during the 2015 Youth assembly. 18 Manila Mail NEWS IN PICTURES August 16-31, 2015

Amb. Jose L. Cuisia hosted a farewell re- ception for Nini Alvero, former Minister Coun- selor of the Philippine Trade & Investment Office at the Philippine Embassy’s Romulo Hall. Photo shows Amb. John Maisto of the US Philippine Society which co-hosted the event, addressing the audience that included businessmen and rep- From left, Bing Cardenas Branigin, NaFFAA resentatives of various Capital Region Chair; Mitzi Pickard of PAFC, US institutions. Alvero Nini Alvero; Carmen L. Stull, a member of is returning to Manila the board of George Washington University to take over higher of- Hospital; and Peter Thieman, board member fice at the Department of the Philippine American Chamber of Com- of Trade & Industry. merce-Washington, DC. at the farewell recep- PHOTO BY BING CARDENAS tion in honor of outgoing Minister Counselor BRANIGIN Alvero. PHOTO BY BING CARDENAS BRANIGIN

KAYA: Filipino Americans for Former Lorton, Progress, a national organi- Va. resident Letty zation of young professionals Tamondong, wife devoted to civic engagement of retired US Navy and policy development, re- Gus Tamondong, cently completed its leader- held a christen- ship workshops for more than ing of their new 30 college summer interns. home in Fred- Among its leaders are, (front ericksburg, Va. row): Jason Tengco, Jessica last Aug. 1. Photo Caloza, Gem Daus, Emil Trin- shows, from left, idad, Marita Etcubanez; (2nd Zeny Luna-Jale- row): Gina Jones, Gregory co, Letty’s “apo” Cendana, Paulo Pontemayor, Nayomi, Dory Joe Montano, Romeo Yma- Luna-Dimailig, lay 111, Mario Salazar,Victor Emma Luna-Hag- Diaz Zapanta, Angelo Dalma- aman, Letty cio, Mike Inacay. PHOTO BY JON Tamondong and MELEGRITO Thess Navarro.

Dexter Alan Havens Orino, son of Daniel and Josie Havens Orino, and Vivienne Rose Orino Vi- cente, daugh- ter of Nick and Gen Orino Vicente, were baptized last July 18 by the Rev. Fr. Don at Our Lady of Mercy Catholic Church in Po- tomac, Mary- land. The date coincided with Members of the George Mason University-Filipino Cul- the 33rd wed- tural Associations (GMU-FCA) are just one of the cam- ding anniver- pus groups in the Metro DC region collaborating to sary of Danny promote Fil-Am issues such as GOTV, Filipino Veterans and Nelly Congressional Gold Medal Project, Immigration, and Orino. Also in cultural activities. Photo shows, from left, Jonathan photo are the L. Arevalo, Denise Diokno, Charlene Agustine, Stephen Orino, Vicente, Liddle, Herman Ayayo of NaFFAA Capital Region, Elo and Havens Lewis, Michael Rodgers, Melanie Via-Daens, Sancho families and Jacinto and GMU-FCA president Elaine Mangulabnan. friends. PHOTO This meeting was held last July 31 in Reston, Va. PHOTO BY JENNIE ILUSTRE BY BING CARDENAS BRANIGIN

Monsignor Eddie Tolentino accepts check donation from Migrant Heritage Commission (MHC) through one of its Ex- ecutive Directors Grace Divina Valera for the improvement of St. Michael Church in Silver Spring, Md. MHC has been providing Free Health Screenings/Medical and Legal immigration Consul- tations for the past eight years at St Michael Parish under MHC Healthcare & Legal Resource Pro- grams, together with its service oriented partner organizations Alexandria-Asian American Lions Club, Fil Ministry of St Michael, From left, Capt. Nan Capulong of the Philippine Army, Advance Asian-American Health Initiative Armor Course; Lt. Gen. May Legere, G2 US Army; Maj. Jane Gu- of Montgomery County, Md. and mataotao, US Army CGSC; Col. Orlando Suarez, Philippine Defense with volunteer healthcare pro- Attache; and Capt. Bong Jallorina, Advance Infantry Course at the fessionals, doctors and nurses from PNA DC & MD, ISA, USTAAA, PMA, Bicol Assn., UERM Alumni and other reception hosted by Lt. Gen. Legere for International Students at groups. The donated funds were raised from the Pedro Calungsod movie special screening. Photos shows the Officers Club, Ft. Myers, Va. PHOTO BY BING CARDENAS BRANIGIN from left Tony Calaro, Grace Valera, Msgr. Tolentino, Denia Calaro and Carl Abella.

Filipino American From left Eleanor community leaders Macalma, Kristine met recently to A. Velilia, Kat Vel- discusse programs illia, and Amante and projects for Macalma of Rich- the second part of mond, Va. visited 2015. Photo shows the Philippine Con- Di Aquino, Ding sulate in New York Gomez, Jonathan City recently. The Melegrito and Ador Consulate shares Carreon during an office with the meeting in Reston, Permanent Mission Va that was also to the United Na- attended by officers tions and is located of PAFC, APODC, along Madison NaFFAA and GMU- Avenue in New York FCA. PHOTO BY BING City. PHOTO BY BING CARDENAS BRANIGIN CARDENAS BRANIGIN August 16-31, 2015 NEWS Manila Mail 19 Pinoy gets plum post as NBA Knick’s training director EW YORK. Sports physician Erwin NBenedict Valencia became the first Filipino to join the medical staff of a major American pro- fessional sports team, the National Basketball Dr. Erwin Ben- his development. “Since I was capital of the Czech Republic, he Association’s New York edict Valencia little, there was always a one- decided to forego with the usual Knicks. is 1st Filipino year plan, five-year plan, 15- celebration and, with two local to join medi- friends, hugged hundreds of per- cal staff of an year plan. My parents were Dr. Valencia, a graduate of NBA team also strong believers in the im- fect strangers in the streets. the University of the Philippines, portance of family, religion, pa- He aspired to join the NBA had previously worked with the at the Universi- tience and hard work.” since he was a teen. He says he National Basketball League as ty of St. Augus- He also credits a Silva Method also did it for young Filipinos well as Major League Baseball tine. He’s also class he attended when he was who dream of getting to the pre- (MBL). He was recently promot- satisfied the 12 or 13 years old. “I learned to mier pro basketball league, prov- ed as Director of Training and requirements meditate, mind map, create my ing that it can be done. Conditioning for the New York for post-gradu- own vision board, use proper “I achieved this dream at a Knicks. ate fellowships breathing, and began to recog- perfect time in my life,” Valencia He will lead the team’s medi- medicine and physical therapy in at Yale University and Regis Uni- nize my own inner peace,” he enthused. “I plan to enjoy every cal and performance staff, mak- the United States. Valencia has a versity in Denver, Co. said in an interview with the moment while working with the ing him the highest ranking Masters of Education in Athletic Prior to joining Knicks, was Philippine Daily Inquirer. Knicks, especially working and Filipino medical professional in Training & Sports Medicine from MLB Rehabilitation Director of His early experiences and learning with inarguably the best professional sports. Plymouth State University in New the Pittsburgh Pirates for eight extraordinary outlook has re- medical and performance staff in Born in New Jersey but grow- Hampshire, and a Doctor of Physi- seasons. inforced a keen appreciation of the NBA, the most open-minded ing up in the Philippines, he pur- cal Therapy degree with a concen- He acknowledged the huge his place in the universe. Spend- head coach in the NBA, and the sued advanced degrees in sports tration in Manipulative Therapies influence his parents had on ing one birthday in Prague, the greatest coach of all time.”

Health Sec. Janette Garin HIV cases in PH continue to rise says 22 new HIV cases are MANILA. The number of new cas- with HIV/AIDS were reported to Health Secretary Janette discovered each day in es of the human immunodeficien- have died, 98 percent of them men. Garin explained that the surge Philippines cy virus (HIV) in the Philippines The most vulnerable age group in the incidence of HIV in the continues to rise. was the 25-34 years bracket. Ma- Philippines was due to the free The Department of Health jority of those who died (97 per- voluntary screening her depart- (DOH) recently reported the cent) were infected through sex- ment has been conducting na- highest number of new cases in a ual contact, and 31 of them had tionwide during the first Nation- month last June, surpassing the engaged in male-to-male sex. al HIV Testing Week in May. figure in May. There are now of- Of the new cases recorded in The National HIV Testing ficially 22 newly diagnosed cas- June, the DOH said 97 percent Week was aimed at encouraging es per day in the Philippines. were male aged between 13 and more people at risk—males hav- The DOH said in a report that 64 years old. ing sex with males and injecting there were 772 cases of HIV/ The main modes of transmis- drug users—to get tested so that AIDS recorded in June, 56 per- sion were sexual contact and they would know their status and cent higher than the number reg- needle sharing among injecting subsequently benefit from the istered during the same period drug users. free antiretroviral (ARV) thera- in 2014 at 494. Most of the cases (38 percent) py offered in 19 treatment hubs The DOH said the latest num- were from Metro Manila, 16 per- across the country. ber of cases was the highest re- cent were from the Cavite-Lagu- ported since 1984. Most of the na-Batangas-Quezon (Calabar- cases or 96 percent were still zon) region, 8 percent from the asymptomatic at the time of re- Davao region, 8 percent from porting. Central Luzon, and 6 percent For the month of June, 62 people from Western Visayas. 20 Manila Mail NEWS August 16-31, 2015 FilVets’ kin warned vs fixers By JENNIE L. ILUSTRE veterans’ families to hire a lawyer.” He ad- vised veterans’ families in the Philippines ASHINGTON D.C. Filipino American groups have warned to visit the US embassy website, manila. families of World War II veterans in the Philippines against usembassy.gov/immigrant-visa for accu- rate, up-to-date and helpful information. W“fixers” who promise a faster processing of their visa ap- Justice for Filipino American Veterans plications in exchange for a facilitation fee. (JFAV) legal counsel Arnedo S. Valera ex- plained on July 18 that the fast-tracked “We’ve heard from contacts in the Phil- He cautioned the veterans’ families to visa is similar to the Cuban/Haitian Fam- ippines that fixers are at it again, victim- beware of “deceitful attempts by unscru- ily Reunification program, where parole izing the veterans’ families,” said Marites pulous legal practitioners and unqualified is granted “to allow individuals to come to “Bing” Branigin, national capital region individuals who prey upon families who the United States on a case-by-case basis Fil-Am WWII veteran Celestino Almeda with Hawaii Sen. Mazie Hirono chair of the National Filipino American are seeking to apply for this benefit.” for a temporary period of time based on Federation of Filipino Americans (NaF- Eric Lachica, volunteer executive di- urgent humanitarian reasons or signifi- veterans’ widows residing in the US are FA A). rector of the American Coalition for Fil- cant public benefit.” not covered under the directive. “We talked NaFFAA National Chair JT S. Mallon- ipino Veterans (ACFV), said: “Getting an The US Citizenship and Immigration with Senator (Mazie) Hirono’s staff. They ga said implementation guidelines are immigration ‘fixer’ who is unlicensed and Service (USCIS) has been tasked to work are working on persuading the White House still being worked out by the Department unreliable may jeopardize the Family Re- with the State Department to work out the and USCIS to include the veterans’ widows of Homeland Security, so the application unification application. It is also unnec- implementing guidelines. and speeding up parole visas regulations,” process is not yet in place.” essary and a waste of precious pesos for Lachica also expressed concern that he said in an email on Aug. 4.

P-NOY “I can totally make that the lives of American families. From Page 1 GOP DEBATE pledge if I am the nominee, I “With more debates to come, But even though Roxas and Binay From Page 1 will pledge that I will not run we look forward to continuing had already declared their candida- he danced around the chal- cies, the political scene continues to as an Independent, and I am to make this contrast. Voters lenge to show proof of that discussing it with everybody. will have many more opportu- be dominated by Sen. Grace Poe, even charge during the debate. if she has yet to declare her bid. She is We’re talking about a lot of nities to hear from our candi- widely believed to have plans of run- “Border patrol. I was at the leverage. We want to win, and dates and decide which one is ning for the presidency, thanks largely border last week. Border patrol we will win. But I want to win best equipped to defeat Hillary to her high ratings in recent surveys people that I deal with, that I as a Republican. I want to run Clinton and lead the country to- of top choices for the presidency. talk to, they say this is what's as the Republican nominee,” he ward a bright future.” President Aquino had repeated- happening because our leaders said. Biden has not yet announced ly said the 2016 elections will be a are stupid, our politicians are Sen. Rand Paul jumped in whether he will join the race for de facto referendum on his Daang stupid, and the Mexican gov- and accused Trump of buying the Democratic Party’s presi- Matuwid (Straight Path) program, ernment is much smarter...they and selling politicians. dential nomination but reports which helped improve the country’s send the bad ones over because For months, Republican the 72-year-old vice president international image after the graft- they don't want to take care Sen. Grace Poe leaders have talked about the was seriously looking into it marred government of Gloria Arroyo. of them,” Trump said. “That's breadth, depth and potential has reignited discussion on Record economic growth since 2011 being too high-brow for the masses, what's happening, whether you strength of their candidates. As how Mrs. Clinton would re- has boosted investors’ confidence in is a scion of the Roxas-Araneta family. like it or not.” a group, the aspiring nominees spond. Many of her senior staff the Philippines, and many Filipinos His father was Sen. Gerardo Roxas, a Trump declared that if it are certainly more experienced members previously worked for welcomed President Aquino’s strong contemporary of President Ferdinand weren’t for him, no one would and seemingly more ready for Biden. anti-corruption position. Marcos and a long-time LP leader, be talking about illegal immi- a national campaign than the But scandals have hurt the Pres- while his mother is Judy Araneta-Rox- Clinton’s allies do not hide gration. collection of politicians who their annoyance at the impli- ident’s image. The Development As- as of the landed Araneta family who Ohio Gov. John Kasich said sistance Program (DAP) designed to developed Cubao as a commercial hub sought to deny Mitt Romney the cation by Biden’s advisers and accelerate government spending, as- in Metro Manila. that Trump’s immigration com- GOP nomination in 2012. supporters that she is vulner- sailed as rehashed pork barrel, and Roxas, though, can still count on ments have clearly touched a A visibly elated Reince able, and ripe for a challenge the Mamasapano incident earlier this the powerful machinery of the LP, nerve and it is “a mistake” for Priebus, Republican National from the vice president. year have damaged President Aquino’s which is now the dominant political people to ignore him. Committee chairman, who help “She has the most money image and given Binay political fodder party in the country with a presence Florida Sen. Marco Rubio design this year’s debate, sent and she is beating every Repub- to fuel his presidential bid. is almost all local governments units. fired back at Trump’s asser- this statement to the Manila lican in most of the polls,” Jen- The Mamasapano incident resulted But whether he can improve his tion that Mexico is to blame for Mail: nifer Palmieri, a spokeswoman in the death of 44 police commandos numbers in the coming months re- America’s illegal immigration “Tonight, the country saw for the campaign said in a CNN in Mamasapano, Maguindanao at the mains to be seen. Many voters remain problem. a diverse and dynamic Repub- interview. She noted that Clin- hands of Moro Islamic Liberation Front unconvinced, according to political He said “the evidence is now lican Party. We are blessed to ton has already secured over (MILF) rebels and caused the downfall analysts, and this could hurt Roxas’ clear that the majority of people have so many candidates that $45 million in campaign funds of national police chief Alan Purisima, image heading into the campaign- coming across the border are bring with them a range of ex- since April and supporters are the President’s close friend and sup- ing season, which officially opens not from Mexico. They're com- periences and a wealth of ideas excited about potentially elect- porter. in October, the deadline for filing of ing from Guatemala, El Salva- to strengthen our country. ing the first female president. More importantly, the President’s certificates of candidacy for national dor, Honduras.” There should be no doubt that fading popularity and the public’s The various presidential elective posts. Former Florida Gov. Jeb the Republican Party’s nomi- growing disappointment over political And it does not help that Roxas, campaigns and their super Bush defended his statement nation process will be a true PACs and non-profits backing scandals and controversies in the ad- and even Binay, have yet to announce last year that people in this ministration are hurting Roxas’ chanc- their vice presidential candidates. Two competition, and voters will be specific candidates have raised es of improving on his popularity rat- popular lady politicians––Camarines country illegally have commit- the ones who decide our nomi- a total of $313 million in the ings. He posted a decent 10 percent Sur Rep. Leni Robredo and Batangas ted “an act of love.” nee. It’s a stark contrast with first six months of 2015. The last June, up six points from a dismal Gov. Vilma Santos––have turned down Bush said most people stay- the Democratic Party estab- official campaign committees four percent in March. But he trails offers to run as Roxas’ running mate. ing in the country illegally are lishment, which will coronate brought in about $70 million, Poe and Binay, who posted ratings of And the LP’s continued courting of trying to provide for their fam- their nominee with hardly any while super PACs and nonprof- 29 and 22 percent respectively. Poe to run as Roxas’ vice presidential ily, a position that earned him say from voters. its required to disclose their Questions over President Aquino’s candidate has been ignored. groans from the audience. “We’re proud to have a deep fundraising activities raised endorsement power, and Roxas’ own Robredo is the widow of the late Bush argued that fixing the bench of candidates, and we’re more than $243 million. unpopularity among the nation’s Local Government Secretary Jess Ro- immigration system is more grateful that tonight’s debates Still, some pundits believe masses––which make up more than bredo while Santos is a widely popular important than figuring out were the most inclusive in the having Biden as an opponent half of the voting population––con- film and TV star and the wife of Sen. why people are in the country history of either party. Amer- could help Clinton’s campaign tinue to raise doubts over the admin- Ralph Recto. illegally, and called for legal icans had the chance to hear in its efforts to shed the percep- istration standard-bearer’s chances Analysts agree that Roxas’ political immigration based on family from seventeen candidates. tion of inevitability that hurt next year. fate will depend on a number of fac- ties, and expanding it for eco- One thing is certain: our candi- her with Iowa caucus-goers in “Roxas has an image problem,” tors, but none as critical as Poe’s de- nomic reasons. dates all offer a better vision for the 2008 contest and going into says Ramon Casiple of the Institute cision on a possible run for the pres- Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker for Political and Electoral Reform. “He idency. She counts on a big following the future than Hillary Clinton. the first televised Democratic defended his shift in immigra- While Clinton wants to spend debate in October. comes off as artificial and fake.” among businessmen and the youth–– tion views, saying he no longer Roxas’ party continues to defend both of which are supposedly Roxas’ more of Americans’ money to You’re a better general elec- him as the “right candidate at the strong backers. She is also popular supports a pathway to citizen- grow the government, Repub- tion candidate if you have com- right time” in the country’s history. with the masses (she is the daugh- ship because he “actually lis- licans want to let Americans petition,” said Steve Elmendorf, “Of course he can win,” Budget Sec- ter of the late Fernando Poe, Jr.), the tened to the American people.” keep more of their money to a veteran Democratic strate- retary Florencio Abad, a senior official supposed base of support for Binay. Trump was booed howev- grow the economy. While Clin- gist. “The vice president would of the Liberal Party, said. “That’s what Analysts believe Poe’s candidacy, er for refusing to promise he ton wants to stifle innovation, be a formidable opponent.” people who don’t play politics are should it come, will most likely define would not run as a 3rd party Republicans want to empower The next GOP debates are accused of, that they’re a snob, that the race for the presidency. It will also candidate if he is not nominat- entrepreneurs young and old to set for September 16 (on CNN) they’re not approachable.” most likely define the campaigns that ed by the GOP. discover new ways to improve and October 28 (on CNBC). Roxas, who has been accused of Roxas and Binay will run. August 16-31, 2015 NEWS Manila Mail 21 PH threatened by a different invasion ANILA. The Philippines face invasion, not just one meter. A 2012 Asian Development from a powerful neighbor but from the rising Bank (ADB) study showed the Msea level spawned by global warming; and a Philippines is among the five geology that leaves the islands more vulnerable to countries most vulnerable to cli- mate change, and ranked fifth in environmental changes. terms of individuals affected by The World Meteorological Or- The 2nd period occurred sea-level rise. ganization (WMO) noted that wa- about 400,000 years ago and Located right next to the Pa- ter levels in the Philippines are the temperature is believed to cific Ocean, the Philippines is projected to rise by more than have risen by one to two degrees expected to feel the brunt of melt- 10 centimeters every 10 years – warmer; the sea level was esti- ing polar ice and the ensuing in- three times more than the global mated to rise at least six meters. crease in the volume of water. In average (3.1 cm per decade). The most recent warming period addition, water is being pushed Sea levels have risen and happened about 120,000 years by easterly winds towards the ebbed with changing global tem- ago with temperatures calcu- island nation and the people who peratures. The first major warm- lated to have risen by as much will feel it the most will be the ing period occurred about three as five degrees Celsius, which ones living in coastal communi- million years ago when most caused the sea level to rise six ties along the eastern side of the records showed elevated carbon meters (18 feet). Philippines, studies predicted. dioxide levels pushed tempera- According to a study by the ing sea levels. More than 167,000 of Cagayan, Palawan, Iloilo, Zam- Government leaders concede tures to as high as eight degrees University of the Philippines, at hectares of coast land in 171 boanga Sibugay, Camarines Sur, there is very little the Philippines Celsius and coastal records sug- least 13.6 million Filipinos will towns are projected to go under- Negros Occidental, Capiz, Bohol, can do except to adopt mitigation gest sea levels rose by more than have to relocate to higher, safer water. Tawi-Tawi and Sulu would be sub- measures and better prepare for 15 meters. places at the current pace of ris- The UP study said large tracts merged if sea level were to rise by the coming deluge.

lands about 600 nautical miles pact is one aspect of China’s land ASEAN away from the closest Chinese reclamation that I don’t believe away with knowledge of all From Page 1 landmass to project its military has received enough attention. NAVIGATING the resources that are avail- and over flight, or other lawful might and coerce the smaller Harris cited the findings of From Page 1 able for them to help them on uses of the sea,” he told report- claimants. University of Miami marine bi- will delve on the subject of their care giving journey,” ers. China’s foreign ministry in ologist John McManus who said “Navigating the Caregiver’s explained Amber Nightin- The joint statement noted “the a statement accused Philippine that China man-made islands on Maze” at the Fairfax County gale Sultane, associate state serious concerns expressed by Foreign Secretary Albert del Ro- top of coral reefs and shoals have Government Center Board au- director of Community Out- some ministers on the land rec- sario of teaming up with his Jap- led to “the most rapid rate of per- ditorium on Aug. 29. The other reach, AARP Virginia. lamations in the South China anese counterpart to “attack” manent loss of coral reef area in resource speakers are Sharon “Sometimes you’re dealing Sea.” China’s South China Sea policy. human history. Lynn, Director of the Fairfax with a caregiver who doesn’t The statement said the land “First off, the situation in the Washington DC-based se- Agency on Aging; Ben de Guz- know how to make an assess- works “have eroded trust and South China Sea is generally sta- curity expert Bonnie S. Glaser, man, national managing direc- ment of the needs of the per- confidence, increased tensions ble, and there is no possibility a senior adviser for Asia in the tor of Diverse Elders Coalition; son in their care,” said Grace and may undermine peace, se- of a major clash,” the statement Freeman Chair in China Stud- Leo Duran, a family caregiv- Lynch, communications man- curity and stability in the South quoted Chinese Foreign Minister ies, warned of the dangers of er; and Veronica Li, author of ager for the Fairfax County China Sea,” without specifically Wang Yi as telling the forum. militarization of the newly-cre- “Confucius Says”. The event is Division of Adult and Aging singling out Beijing. “China opposes any non-con- ated land features in the Spratly sponsored by AARP, Inc. and Services. “Sometimes you The final communiqué was structive words and acts which Island chain in the South China the Philippine American Foun- know you need help but you reached after two days of wran- widen division, exaggerate an- Sea. dation for Charities (PAFC). don’t know what you need, or gling over how hard to pressure tagonism or create tensions,” the The 10,000-foot runway on The number of Asian you have a diagnosis but don’t China on its controversial drive statement said. Kagitingan Reef (Fiery Cross American and Pacific Is- know how it translates into a to expand tiny reefs and build At the meeting, Wang said Reef) is almost complete, and landers over 65 years or old- specific service.” military posts in the disputed Beijing has stopped all reclama- according to Admiral Harris, er is projected to grow from Denial and resistance, waters. tion work in disputed waters, but the Chinese appear to be build- fewer than one million in among both the caregiv- The flashpoint issue took cen- ASEAN foreign officials and Sec- ing hangars for tactical fighters, 2000 to 2.5 million by 2020, ers and the person in need ter stage at the Kuala Lumpur retary Kerry were skeptical. Glaser wrote in a commentary and 7.6 million by 2050, ac- of care, are common hin- meeting which was also attended “The Chinese have indicated “Beijing’s Assurances Unpersua- cording to the Department drances, explained Dr. Amy by the foreign ministers of major that they have stopped,” Kerry sive: A COC Can’t Wait” posted of Health and Human Ser- Coren, assistant professor of powers and regional groups, like told newsmen at the close of the Wednesday (Aug. 5) in the Asia vices. psychology at Northern Vir- the European Union. meeting. “I hope it is true. I don’t Maritime Transparency Initia- An AARP study found ginia Community College in China claims most of the know yet.” tive website. Asian Americans as a group Alexandria. “What we really South China Sea that encom- To put the extent of China’s Moreover, she wrote, satel- are almost twice as likely stress is understanding that passes strategic sea routes reclamation frenzy, the estimat- lite imagery also suggests that than the general population the old relationship is fin- through which $5 trillion in ship- ed 3,000 acres of contested mar- China may be getting ready to to care for their elders. More ished and a new relationship borne trade passes every year. itime features is about a third of build a second runway on nearby than any racial or ethnic must be established, where Brunei, Malaysia, the Philip- the 9,500 acres that make up the Zamora Reef (Subi Reef). group, the vast majority of the previous parent is now an pines, and Vietnam – all ASEAN city of Manila. “Early warning radar sta- Asian Americans (73 per- individual under your care.” members – and Taiwan also have Looking at it another way, tions, military barracks, heli- cent) believe that caring for Taguba believes that dy- overlapping claims. these artificial islands could con- pads, and lookout towers have parents is expected of them namic is one reason why the ASEAN Secretary Gener- tain a total of 1,800 soccer fields. been installed on several fea- compared to just 49 percent issue of long-term care is al Le Luong Minh said foreign At the Aspen Security Forum tures and harbors large enough of the total population who avoided, often until it is too ministers expressed concerns in Aspen, Colorado last month, to receive tankers and major see it as an obligation. late. “It’s a topic that we don’t in a meeting Tuesday over the Admiral Harris deplored China’s surface combatants are being The report found that want to touch because we massive island building activi- island building binge as a “coer- built,” she added. Asian Americans were more think our parents are going ties that had escalated tensions cive” maneuver to alter the sta- Glaser wrote that Beijing’s likely to talk to doctors on to live forever,” he said. “But in the region and “complicating tus quo and change the facts on belated efforts to appease un- behalf of seniors, do paper- it’s part of a family cycle. It’s the very process of negotiating the ground. easy Asean countries are being work and bills, and provide never a good time to have to the Code of Conduct” among the “China... is changing the sta- received with a grain of salt by financial support for their conversation, but it starts parties. tus quo in the region through ag- the uneasy neighbors, including elders. The report also re- with a four letter word: love.” According to Admiral Harry gressive coercive island building the Philippines. vealed that Asian Ameri- Navigating the Caregiv- Harris Jr., commander of the US without meaningful diplomatic “Sensing the angst in the re- cans age 45-55 expect the er’s Maze. Saturday, Aug. Pacific Command, the amount of efforts toward dispute resolution gion about its island building... same from their children. 29, 8:30 am-noon. Fairfax land reclaimed by Vietnam, Ma- or arbitration,” the top U.S. Pa- China attempted to signal a will- Taguba, who is an AARP County Government Center laysia, the Philippines and Tai- cific commander stressed. ingness to work with regional community ambassador, em- Board Auditorium, 12000 wan in the disputed area over the He also accused China of players by agreeing to establish phasized the need for great- Government Center Park- last 45 years totals 100 acres (40 “changing facts on the ground... hotlines among foreign ministers er awareness on the need way, Fairfax, VA 220. RE- hectares), a miniscule fraction of essentially creating false sover- to respond to maritime emergen- for advanced long-term care SERVE YOUR SEAT by the more than 3,000 acres (1,200 eignty” which he said will not cies,” Glaser observed. planning and the resources calling 1-877-926-8300 or hectares) reclaimed by China in hold water in international law. “The efficacy of such hotlines available to assist both care- online: aarp.cvent.com/Fair- the last 18 months alone “In doing so, China’s actions is dubious, however, since coast givers and the elderly. fax829VA. Complimentary Washington and regional se- are destroying the surrounding guards, navies and maritime “The goal of this event is refreshments and lunch curity officials fear that China underwater environment... and militias are not administered by that participants will walk provided. would use these artificial is- that severe environmental im- foreign ministers.” 22 Manila Mail ENTERTAINMENT August 16-31, 2015

Heart throb Xian Lim Mariel pregnant with Robin’s twins MANILA. Television host Mariel Rodriguez is a miracle. pregnant with twins, her husband action star “I’ve been there. With my first wife we Robin Padilla revealed earlier this month. also had that (miscarriage),” Padilla said, The news came as a huge relief for the adding he easily moved on but understood Robin couple’s friends and relatives after Rodri- why Rodriguez had a hard time doing so. Padilla guez appeared inconsolable after suffering a Padilla had been married to other partners with wife Mariel Ro- miscarriage last April. before Rodriguez. driguez It was revealed that she was eight weeks “Maria and Juan de Padilla IN SHA AL- and three days pregnant when the baby LAH GOD WILLING.” Padilla wrote when he stopped developing. Padilla revealed that posted a picture of his wife’s ultrasound test Rodriguez initially refused to have the fetus on Instagram. cause we need all the prayers that we could removed from her womb despite being told by Rodriguez asked for everyone’s prayers get,” she said. doctors that there was no longer a heartbeat. as she tries to build a family with the action Rodriguez and Padilla have been married He explained that his wife was hoping for star. “I implore everyone to pray for us be- for five years. K .C. CONCEPCION BOOSTS DISASTER PREPAREDNESS Xian Lim ANILA. Celebrity K.C. Concepcion is taking time off from the ramp gets a taste and hosting shows to help raise awar ness on the need for disaster Mpreparedness as an ambassador of the United Nations World Food of Hollywood- Program (WFP). “We’re helping the government create style MTV more efficient ways of disaster response,” she explained. MANILA. Xian Lim, one of the K.C. (for Kristina Cassandra), 30, is Philippine’s most bankable of course the daughter of former teen stars, plays rising American matinee stars Sharon Cuneta and singer Zana’s love interest in Gabby Concepcion. She is a popular the music video of her latest model, actress and singer, and has been song, “Deeper”. hosting shows on television. He didn’t get a chance to She’s been a WFP envoy since 2008. audition, he revealed in one The UN agency has credited her interview, but got the job any- with leading fund raising activities way after for disaster relief and hunger miti- the Zana’s gation in the Philippines and other K.C. Concepcion’s work for the UN World producers parts of the world. A month after Food Program has brought her from the c onta c te d world of glam to the high-risk regions of the recent killer earthquake in Africa. Star Magic, Nepal, she and fellow WFP en- and as luck voy Mark Nicdao held a photo contributions come from auctions on her would have exhibit in Manila to help raise website “KC’s Closet Fights Child Hunger”, it they were funds for the victims. charity events and personal networks. having a “Part of my job is to help She earned a degree in international show in Los WFP make hunger a big corporate communications from the Amer- Angeles at issue, so that it is seen ican University of Paris and is fluent in the time. ZANA as important as pov- English and French. She has represented “I was erty and AIDS,” WFP at the Clinton Global Initiative in New very interested and agreed to said Concepcion. York and at the Formula One Grand Prix in the project,” he said. Much of her Singapore. Zana, 20, is rising sing- As one of Manila’s most prized bache- er and songwriter from the lorette, her love life has been the subject of Bay Area where she per- much speculation after reportedly break- formed with a jazz band. She ing up with teleserye heartthrob Paulo launched a solo career as a Avelino. pop artist fusing Arabic and But love may have to wait as Concep- Latin influences to create cion carries on her work with WFP. “Trav- what she labels as her “gypsy eling and seeing the real world is really pop sound”. eye-opening and it really just pushes you Lim, is the only child of to have that commitment all your life,” she Chinese-Filipino parents and averred. was born in San Francisco. “I would love to be doing this all my life,” His family moved back to the she declared. Philippines when he was just six months old; at age 10, his parents separated and he re- located to Daly City. He has starred in at least Couple’s rise to fame ‘6 seconds at a time’ nine movies, nearly two doz- en television dramas on var- LOS ANGELES, Ca. Filipino-American with ABS-CBN’s Balitang America. from fans just because they tweeted ious networks and recorded Carissa Rae Alvarado and her husband Vine allows users to loop a six sec- that they love the sweet dessert. two albums for Star Records. Mike have catapulted to fame, six sec- ond video fi lming just their mouths The Southern Californian pop/folk Lim also joined the Free onds at a time. and instruments. The couple has pair, who met in 2011 and married the Mali PETA campaign in 2013 Known as “Us the Duo”, the couple amassed some nearly fi ve million Vine next year, are social media darlings which asked that the Manila became the fi rst Vine Sensations to be followers with their six-second covers who have built up a massive following Zoo’s only but aging elephant signed to a major record deal after Re- of hit songs from pop to classics. through their videos of popular covers be moved to a sanctuary. public Record snagged them. “We just try to fi nd the most recog- as well as original songs. “It’s crazy all of this just happened nizable 6 seconds of a song. Whatever They have over a million subscrib- Lim admitted it was his so quickly. We didn’t realize we were the hook is and we can probably do 10 ers on On YouTube and their videos first time to shoot a music going to get so many followers from seconds of it and cut it down into 6. It’s have chalked up 61.3 million views. video in the US. “I was a bit this app, but we kind of just stayed funny how our brain works in 6 second After signing with Republic records, scared because I didn’t know consistent and kept on doing it. Peo- increments,” Mike said. they did the soundtrack for the ani- what to expect but it turns it ple like it so it was a lot of fun and for They have built an army of loyal fans mated fi lm the ‘Book of Life’. it’s nearly the same,” he said. it to blow up the way it did, we’re just who call themselves “Us the Family”. They were then invited to appear He added that he is open to Carissa Rae Alvarado really grateful that it all worked out In a recent visit to Singapore, duo said with Oprah during her ‘The Life You opportunities in Hollywood. and her husband Mike that way,” Carissa said in an interview they were inundated with doughnuts Want Weekend’ tour. August 16-31, 2015 MANILA MAIL 23

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Wanted: Scapegoats and Whipping Boys RBAN legend has it that one else absorbs the punish- acting under authority of the ings and recommendations of the President Manuel Que- ment. On the other hand, the president. GUEST Ombudsman in the indictment of Uzon, while entertaining term “scapegoat” means pass- When Napeñas told the me- COLUMNIST Mr. Vitangcol and his cohorts, I a foreign dignitary in Mala- ing on the blame and washing dia, “I take full responsibility!” would like to read the text of the cañang, inadvertently let out one’s hands of any accountabil- he was performing the classic resolution in full to find out the By GREG B. gas. Without missing a beat, ity. role of the whipping boy – and, MACABENTA reasons why DOTC Sec. Joseph Quezon turned to his aide-de- At any rate, either of the two to some extent, there was a Emilio Abaya was not included camp and upbraided the poor concepts may have inspired touch of nobility and self-sacri- despite having allegedly signed man for uncivilized behavior. recent controversial deci- fice in that. In a literal sense, In ancient Syria, the contract, presumably with When the guest had left, the sions of Ombudsman Conchita Napeñas was willing to “take full knowledge of the facts and aide complained that he had Carpio-Morales. Inexplicably, the rap” for his superiors, to ancient Greece the applicable law surrounding been unjustly blamed for some- she absolved Noynoy Aquino use a Mafiosi term. and in Old such anomalous procurement of thing he did not do. for the Mamasapano tragedy, But there was not an iota services.” “I know you didn’t do it,” and excluded DOTC Secretary of nobility in what Aquino did Testament times, Bayan Secretary General Quezon reportedly replied. Joseph Abaya – and his prede- when he told media that “he Renato Reyes, Jr. demanded “But would you have preferred cessor, Mar Roxas – from the felt betrayed” by Purisima it was customary to know why Abaya and the that the president of the Philip- indictment slapped on former and Napeñas by “disobeying” to cleanse a members of the DOTC Bids and pines was embarrassed before Metro Rail Transit 3 (MRT-3) his orders. Awards Committee were exclud- a foreign guest?” general manager, Al Vitangcol Here’s what one Manila dai- community of its ed: The concept of scapegoat- III, and five others for alleged ly reported: "Now lo and behold, only one ing goes back to antiquity, irregularities in the transit “’If ever I [was at] fault here, sins by imputing government official has been while whipping boys were SOP system’s maintenance con- it was [because I trusted] these the violations to charged. Only former MRT GM among royalty in Europe. In tract. people. Why did I fail to detect Al Vitangcol is being made ac- ancient Syria, ancient Greece Disgraced, dismissed and that they were misleading me?’ a goat and setting countable as a member of the and in Old Testament times, subsequently indicted former the President said on Saturday BAC and as end-user of the it was customary to cleanse a PNP Director General Alan night. the poor animal contract. Either Vitangcol is a community of its sins by imput- Purisima may be more aptly “He was referring to Puri- loose in the desert, genius scammer able to pull off ing the violations to a goat and characterized as a whipping sima, then the suspended PNP the multimillion dollar deal with- setting the poor animal loose boy. Carpio-Morales may have chief, and the sacked Special in effect, carrying out the knowledge of the entire in the desert, in effect, carry- decided that the president of Action Force (SAF) command- DOTC, or DOTC officials are just ing off the community’s trans- the Philippines was pretty er, Director Getulio Napeñas, off the community’s hopelessly incompetent," Reyes gressions. Thus was coined the much like European royalty – who both briefed him on Jan. transgressions. complained to media. term scapegoat. too high in rank to be subjected 9 about the police operation to Getting in a word edgewise, On the other hand, among to the indignity of punishment. get Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Thus was coined JV Bautista, secretary general royalty, it was unthinkable It doesn’t take rocket sci- bin Hir, alias ‘Marwan.’” of the opposition, United Na- to punish a young prince for ence to conclude that Purisi- That was pure, unadulterat- the term scapegoat. tionalist Alliance (UNA), asked his juvenile misbehavior. But ma, being under suspension ed scapegoating. why Abaya’s predecessor, Mar discipline had to be imposed and rendered inactive, could Vitangcol and the five other ical fence, Abaya, as signatory Roxas, had not been included for good order’s sake. Thus a not have stage-managed the indictees have obviously been of the anomalous maintenance in the indictment, in spite of whipping boy came in handy Mamasapano raid by the PNP made whipping boys for their contract, should have been in- the fact that the questionable – a ward who would bear the Special Action Force (SAF) superiors but worse yet, they cluded in the indictment. Sen- contract had been drawn up brunt of the punishment that without the direct orders of have also been made scape- ators Nancy Binay and Grace during Roxas’ incumbency as the prince deserved. Aquino. Neither could SAF goats, because Abaya, and by Poe both questioned the exclu- DOTC secretary, and Abaya There is a difference be- commander, PNP Director extension, Roxas, have been sion of Abaya, even while Poe, had only been two days on the tween the two terms. “Whip- Getulio Nape ñas, have so un- “cleansed” of any accountabil- known to be an ally of the ad- job when he signed and ap- ping boy” suggests that the questioningly followed Purisi- ity. ministration, tried to soft-ped- proved it. transgression is still attributed ma’s orders if he had not been According to protestors al it: ...... to a principal, although some- convinced that the latter was from several sides of the polit- “While we respect the find- SCAPEGOATS P31

An open letter to Vice President Jejomar Binay Dear VP Binay, ed so much unexplained wealth ministration. All you did is to while serving as official of the prepare your candidacy for PATIENTLY and critically government. President. listened to your so-called You had already evaded nu- In the four years that you I “True State of the Nation merous “forums” to explain served as a cabinet member of Address” (TSONA).) your side, and until now you President Aquino’s adminis- I smiled, not because of the are still not brave enough to tration as Presidential Adviser content and meaning of what explain the national crime of for OFW Affairs and Council you said, but because I was so corruption and plunder you are Chairman of Housing & Urban dismayed waiting for you to involved with. Development, I have not heard talk about your concrete pro- What our country need is or read any new recommen- grams to mitigate the basic a person with credibility and dation from you or had done problems of our society – from integrity, not only within the appropriate solutions on the corruption, lack or not enough confine of our nation but the issue of human and labor traf- food on the table, livelihood, global community, as well. The ficking of our overseas Filipi- the elusive implementation of integrity and credibility of our no workers, especially to our Atty. Arnedo Valera, right, and fellow MHC co-executive directors justice and the violation of hu- Grace Valera and Jessie Gatchalian with Vice President Jejomar Binay national leaders will insure our teachers in America. You have man rights. in Malacanang Palace. political and economic stabili- not mentioned any solution to We all know that it is easy rity while explaining your so against you and your family. ty, especially to the long-term the lack or inadequate housing to throw criticisms to the basic called TSONA. You showed to This is not only disgrace to solutions of hunger, poverty problems of the majority of our problems of our country and us that you value more your your honor but also a disre- and the unemployment of the people. Instead you used them its present condition. As Vice personal interest to become the spect to your current govern- majority. in your politicking to act as an President and currently run- President of the Philippines, at ment position. It is a position During the last SONA of underdog and earn their sym- ning for President of the Philip- whatever cost. What you did is of trust given by the electorate. President Aquino where he pathy as you face the multibil- pines, I had a high anticipation a pure simple politicking, be- Your integrity and honesty is expressed his gratitude to the lion corruption case against and expectation that you will reft of sincere TSONA. now an issue, not only in the members of his Cabinet, your you. lay down problems with accom- You should have used your Philippines but all over the feeling was hurt when your It was so un-statesman and panying solutions. so-called TSONA as an oppor- world. name was not mentioned. But psychologically painful that Like all other overseas Fili- tunity to explain to the people You should have used your you really does not deserve. you politicized the martyrdom pinos living here in the United how you were able to amass TSONA as a vehicle to answer For four years that you are a of SAF44 in Mamasapano. You States and other parts of the wealth and property that was and explain to the nation how member of the Cabinet, you did were one of the government globe, I was alarmed by your the basis of unprecedented you, together with all the mem- not put on the table any new ...... lack of credibility and integ- corruption case that was filed bers of your family, accumulat- and effective policy for the ad- OPEN LETTER P21 August 16-31, 2015 COLUMNS Manila Mail 25

Residence Abroad VISA BULLETIN – PHILIPPINES PPLICANTS for natural- ship and the cancellation of the AUGUST 2015 ization are required to IMMIGRATION certificate of naturalization as • FAMILY-BASED Aexpress their intent to NOTES having been obtained by con- First: Unmarried sons/daughters of US citizens March 15, 2000 permanently reside in the Unit- cealment of a material fact or Second: ed States. Before October 25, by willful misrepresentation, 2A: Spouses/minor children of By J.G. AZARCON, permanent residents: Dec. 15, 2013 1994, if a naturalized citizen ESQ. and such revocation and set- left the United States and took ting aside of the order admit- 2B: Unmarried sons/daughters 21 years of age or older of permanent residents May 22, 2004 up residence abroad within one ting such person to citizenship Third: Married sons/daughters of citizens Aug. 22, 1993 year from obtaining his US citi- “Foreign residence. If a and such canceling of certifi- Fourth: Brothers/sisters of citizens Jan. 15, 1992 zenship, the law presumes that person who shall have been cate of naturalization shall be the naturalized citizen did not naturalized shall, within one effective as of the original date • EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES have the intent to permanent- year after such naturalization, of the order and certificate, re- First: Priority workers Current ly reside in the US at the time return to the country of his na- spectively.” Second: Professionals holding advanced of admission to US citizenship. tivity, or go to any other foreign The law further required the degrees or persons of exceptional ability Current This presumption was a basis country, and take permanent State Department to furnish Third: Skilled workers, professionals Jun 01, 2004 for the revocation of US citizen- the Justice Department with Other Workers Jun 01, 2004 residence therein, it shall be Fourth: ship on the ground that the nat- considered prima facie evi- names of naturalized citizens Certain Religious Workers Current uralization applicant misrepre- dence of a lack of intention on who have taken up residence Fifth: Employment creation/ sented or concealed a material the part of such person to re- abroad. (Million or half-million dollar investor) Current fact at the time when he applied side permanently in the United On October 25, 1994, Con- for naturalization- that he/she States at the time of filing his gress passed the Immigration really did not have the intention petition for naturalization, and and Nationality Technical Cor- and the State Department will proceeding just by virtue of his to reside in the US. in the absence of countervail- rections Act of 1994 which re- no longer provide the Justice foreign residence. His US citi- The controlling provision ing evidence, it shall be suffi- pealed Section 340(d). In effect, Department with names of nat- zenship will not be in jeopardy, of the law prior to October 25, cient in the proper proceeding there is no more presumption uralized citizens who have tak- unless the INS comes up with 1994 was Section 340(d) of the to authorize the revocation and of fraud if the naturalized cit- en up residence abroad. clear affirmative evidence es- Immigration Act, which provid- setting aside of the order ad- izen leaves the US within one The naturalized citizen there- ...... ed as follows: mitting such person to citizen- year of his/her naturalization, fore will not face revocation RESIDENCE P31

The Great Divide Don’t do it!!!! ANG. Crackle. Boom! Oh sounds of fireworks! All INFORMADIO ONGRATULATIONS!!! You are and that greatly affect your cred- the chaos and drama now approved for the loan. it scores even if they say it will B Wow, your hard work paid not… Just DON’T. from the loud noises to each C REAL DEAL off. After years of taking care of DON’T FAIL TO DISCLOSE little firecracker flaring up to By ERIC DAVE ALEJANDRO your credit and history; you are By JOCELYN FINANCIAL/CREDIT INFOR- one loud symphonic cacoph- P. PORTERIA, MACALMA almost there to buy your home. ® MATION – Do not hold any infor- ony much like the clashing Excitement takes place looking REALTOR mation to your loan officer. Lay sounds of any form of a lovely for that perfect home. But wait, everything on the table so he can spirited debate. In the spirit travesty. Given that we also proceed with CAUTION!!! loan officer. No need to impress advise you what to do. You may of the upcoming elections or contribute to the makeup of Not because you are holding the bank as it may cost you at the think nobody will find out. Just “battlegrounds” if you will, America collectively as non- an approval or pre approval from end. imagine getting an approval, with the GOP Debates occur- blacks and non-whites, we a mortgage lender; that does DON’T DEPOSIT CASH – we finding a house, all set including ring this week revving up the have similar issues even with- not mean you can be careless may have money coming from moving truck, transfer schools, Republican Party’s top candi- in our own communities. Like in your spending and financial different sources like is some- lease almost done; you are about dates, the presidential debate I mentioned in my last article decisions. I always advise my body owes us or we have actual to close in a few days. Then you offered plenty of memorable what happens in the main- clients that lenders may ask savings inside the house. Rule of got a call from your loan offi- sonic booms crossing through stream affects our own Filipi- for your bank statements, pay thumb, all money should be doc- cer asking about “your secret”, Facebook, Twitter and all of no American communities in stubs etc again, same documents umented. Lenders usually ask at needs documentation and you Social Media. more ways than one. The way and maybe more before closing. the last minute where that par- have nothing– Everything just Participants headlined a we act and react to culture as They will reconfirm everything ticular money came from. They disappear before your eyes. debate showcased by one at- Fil-Ams is almost a parallel like if you still have a job and will ask for copy of cancelled Any of the above mentioned tention grabbing real estate reflection of how America as nothing has changed on your fi- checks front and back. What if can greatly affects your abili- mogul and television person- nancial status. Do not think that you do not have any proof where ty to obtain a mortgage loan or a whole deals with it. you can argue with them stating delay the process and closing ality with his famous toupée, I remember as a child be- it came from? You maybe telling they already have all your docu- the truth but how can you prove date. There maybe huge costs Donald Trump, and a party ing ostracized by the Fil Am ments. They can take that away if you fail to perform or delay of Senators, Governors, and that? There were times loans kids born here in the States, from you anytime especially if are denied because of this. closing. It is very important to a retired neurosurgeon. With because I was born in the there is something unusual on DON’T MAKE ANY MAJOR avoid doing those until you got so many topics discussed Philippines and not here. I your documents. From the day PURCHASES – not the best the house keys in your hand. I however, there was one MA- also was ridiculed for having you got the approval that will be time to buy a car please!! Com- always make it a point to make JOR underlying factor (that a strong thick Illocano accent the day that you don’t want to do mon mistakes; new home means the buying process a smooth and could help tip and swing any which was foreign to them. I anything that may affect your fi- I need a new car, new furniture pleasing experience by my cli- Presidential Campaign) that remember always being last nancial status. Please take note new appliances etc… STOP!!! A ents and not stressful moments was completely undermined, picked on any team whenever of the following: new monthly payment will great- that they regret buying a house. and that is the topic of “race”. the kids would played board DON’T CHANGE YOUR JOB ly affect your approval. By the You play the major role in mak- With that in mind Mr. (poten- games, or simply ignored and – even if it will bring you higher time your finances are verified ing that happen. tial future) President my big- not allowed to play, because salary; you can delay changing before closing, you are no longer gest complaint and if anyone they could not understand my your job after closing on your approved. Note: Jocelyn Porteria is a was watching, is that it seems accent. new home. Changing jobs during DON’T CLOSE CREDIT Realtor® licensed in VA. Top like everyone in the debate Recently even the media and after the loan process may CARD ACCOUNTS – anoth- Producer of Fairfax Realty and avoided “racial issues”. It is is highlighting areas not re- delay closing or worst, denial on er common mistake; “I will earning Five-Star Reviews so funny how the biggest el- ally openly discussed about. the loan especially if it is a dif- close most of my credit cards from her clients. She earned a ephant in the room was com- ferent line of work with what you so my credit score will better.” designation of ASP, Accredit- Television shows like White had during application. Every- ed Staging Professional; ABR, pletely ignored, and it is that People championed by Fil WRONG!!! It can affect your thing needs to re verified. ratio of debt to available credit Accredited Buyer’s Special- “great divide” about the topic Am Documentarian Jose DON’T CHANGE BANKS ist; CDPE Certified Distressed itself that raises issues in so by 30%. Again, you built a good Antonio Vargas, have chal- OR MOVE YOUR MONEY credit history with that credit Property and Short Sale Expert, many circles including the lenged Americans particu- AROUND – sometimes, my cli- card company for years. That (SFR) Short Sales and Foreclo- Filipino American communi- larly White Americans and ent becomes paranoid and trying shows how good you are as a sure Resource. For more info, ty. put them on the stage on this to move money around to show creditor. visit her website at www.jpreal- The “great divide” when it documentary platform. The they have more than enough to DON’T APPLY FOR NEW deal.com and on Facebook https:// comes to race has also always film brought very challeng- get the loan. Remember, you CREDIT OF ANY KIND – on the www.facebook.com/realdealcon- seemed to be an issue of be- ing subjects including top- were approved from what you other hand, do not open a new sulting. Call her at 571-432-8335 ing black or white, but never ics regarding privilege to a have shown. It is best to leave one as well. Not even just to try or email at realdealconsulting@ what’s in between, as a Filipi- ...... your money where it is until the for the interest rate or just trying yahoo.com for free confidential no American I think that is a GREAT DIVIDE P31 loan closes or if advised by the it out. They will pull your credit consultations. 26 Manila Mail COLUMNS August 16-31, 2015

EVELYN’S KITCHEN

By EVELYN S. BUNOAN

PichiICHI-PICHI is one of the most traditional Filipino des- -Pichi serts which originated from the southern part of the PPhilippines. Here in America, making pichi-pichi is a lot easier be- cause ingredients are readily available at any Oriental stores. It is quick and easy to make, and can be served as a snack, and as a dessert at parties.

Ingredients: • 1 pound frozen grated cassava (thawed) • 1 1/2 cup water • 1 cup sugar • 1/2 teaspoon lye water

Methods: 1. Grease one 9-inch round aluminum foil baking pan. 2. Mix all ingredients in a bowl. 3. Pour into the pan and steam until cassava is cooked (firm and transparent). 4. Remove the pan from the steamer and let cool. 5. Make small patties-like portions (approximately 1 1/2” x 1 1/2”) and roll in grated coconut.

(Note: Can also be rolled in toasted coconut flakes, if preferred.) PHOTO BY EVELYN S. BUNOAN

Editor’s Note: Master Chef Evelyn—100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S., 2009, Filipina Women’s Network; MHC Most Outstanding Migrant Award in Culinary Arts, 2011; PAFC Dakila Special Achievement Award, 2011; Owner/Master Chef, Philippine Oriental Market & Deli, Arlington, Virginia; Founder and President of CHEW (Cancer Help – Eat Well) Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) public charity formed to help and cook pro-bono for Filipino-Americans who are afflicted with cancer and other serious illnesses; Culinary writer; Member, Les Dames d’Escoffier International, Washington DC Chapter; Member, International Cake Exploration Society, Member, Culinary Historians of Washington, D.C.; Master Chef, French Cuisine and Patisserie, Le Cordon Bleu, London.

Three Convicts HREE convicts were on the A Really Bad Day stantly. ator, suddenly...” way to prison. They were GREEN The Angel at the gate of Heav- The Angel said, “Okay, wel- Teach allowed to take one & CLEAN en is interviewing three men. He come to the Kingdom of Heaven,” Macho item with them to help them oc- told them before they could be and let him in. Nagkuwento and isang “ma- cupy their time while incarcerat- Compiled admitted they must have had a The next guy came up. He chong macho” sa kanyang kai- ed. On the bus, one turned to the By OSCAR really bad day when theey died. said, “You’re not going to believe bigan... convict beside him and said, “So, S. BUNOAN The first man said, “I came home this. I was on the balcony of my Kaloy: Nung inutusan ako ng what did you bring?” to my 25th floor apartment on my 26th floor apartment doing my misis ko na maglaba na raw ako, The second convict pulled out A collection of jokes and funny lunch hour and caught my wife daily exercises. I had been un- sinigawan ko siya, “Hindi ako a box of paints and stated that stories gathered from emails, friends having an affair. But her lover der a lot of pressure so I was re- maglalaba!”. and memory. Some clean, some not he intended to paint anything he was nowhere in sight so I imme- ally pushing hard to relieve my Pagkatapos ng ilang minuto could. He wanted to become the so clean, and some really green. Proceed at your own risk. diately began searching for him. stress. I guess I got a little car- ay inutusan ulit akong magla- “Grandma Moses of Jail”. My wife was half naked and yell- ried away, slipped, and acciden- ba. Galit na sinigawan ko ulit Then he asked the first, ing at me as I searched the entire tally fell over the side! Luckily, I siya, “Sabi na sa ‘yong hindi ako “What did you bring?” The first Vacation apartment. Just as I was about to was able to catch myself by the maglalaba! Ang kulit-kulit mo convict pulled out a deck of cards Bill told his friend Rob, “You give up, I saw this man hanging finger tips on the balcony below naman!” and grinned and said, “I brought know, I think I’m ready for a little off the edge of the balcony by his mine. But all of a sudden this Kulas: E bakit nga ba ayaw these cards. I can play poker, vacation. fingertips! I ran out onto the bal- crazy man comes running out mo’ng maglaba? solitaire, gin, and any number of But this year I want to do cony and stomped on his fingers of his apartment, starts cursing, Kaloy: “Eh, papaano naman, games.” something different. The last until he fell to the ground. But and stomps on my fingers. Well, hindi pa ako tapos mamalantsa!” The third convict was sit- few years, I took your sugges- wouldn’t you know it, he landed of course I fell. I hit some trees ting quietly aside, grinning to tion about where to go. Three on some trees and bushes that and bushes at the bottom which Masakit himself. The other two took no- years ago you told me I should broke his fall and he didn’t die. broke my fall so I didn’t die right Nagpunta si Juan sa doktor. tice and asked, “What are you go to Hawaii. I did, and Marie got This ticked me off even more. away. As I was laying there, face Juan: Doc, masakit kapag grinning about? What did you pregnant. The next year you said In a rage, I went back inside to up on the ground, unable to move idiniin ko dito (sabay turo sa bring?” I should go to the Bahamas. Ma- get the first thing I could get my and in excruciating pain, I see kanyang tagiliran). The guy pulled out a box of rie got pregnant again. And last hands on to throw at him. Oddly this guy push his refrigerator, “And when I press here” tampons, smiled and said, “I year you told me to go to Tahiti. enough, the first thing I thought of all things, off the balcony. It (pressing the other side) “And brought these.” The other two Sure enough, Marie got pregnant of was the refrigerator. I un- falls the 25 floors and lands on here” (his leg) “And here, here were puzzled and asked, “What for the third time.” plugged it, pushed it out onto the top of me killing me instantly.” and here” (his other leg, and both can you do with those?” He Rob asks Bill, “What are you balcony, and tipped it over the The Angel welcomes him arms) grinned and pointed to the box gonna do this year that’s differ- side. It plummeted 25 stories and to the Kingdom of Heaven. So the doctor examined him and said, “Well according to the ent?” crushed him! The excitement of The third man comes up to the all over and finally discovered box, I can go horseback riding, Bill says, “This year, I’m gon- the moment was so great that I Angel and said, “OK, picture what was wrong. “You’ve got a swimming, roller-skating....” na bring Marie with me.” had a heart attack and died in- this. I’m naked inside a refriger- broken finger!” August 16-31, 2015 COLUMNS Manila Mail 27 Inspiration

T IS a spark that motivates, disappear and leave me alone. from things that are not seen question like who was the most excites, titillates or stimu- KUTITAP Obviously, I can be more com- nor touched, but from those influential person in her adult Ilates us to fulfill our wants municative and can be inter- that are felt in the heart or life, the answer was, “Mother or needs with the end result of rupted when I am writing on from happy thoughts, and with Theresa, because she inspired a happy and awesome feeling of easier topics. I can even dis- divine thinking, from God. me to become actively involved By BECKY accomplishment. PAGSIBIGAN cuss these with him with spon- During the winter season, I in charitable activities of my An idea will remain just taneity. would just look outside through church and local community. I an idea if left stagnant in our my bedroom window to watch also joined a volunteer group heads. When writing a letter, a It only takes a What is an Inspiration? the white snow falling on our distributing foods to people report or an article, sometimes It is a spark that motivates, pine trees. This natural oc- in poor areas. And because I I could be just sitting in front small opening excites, titillates or stimulates currence could make me start was lucky in life, I want to give of my computer with an emp- for inspiration us to think, do or move to ful- writing about the beauty of something back to other people ty head. The idea is there, but fill wants or needs with the end winter. The serene picturesque in need.” there’s no inspiration to write, to break through. result of a happy and awesome scene would fill me up with Clearly, inspirations that or have waves of motions in feeling of accomplishment. As warm and tender thoughts come in many forms and sourc- my mind to form and express It may be just a I think more about it, inspira- ergo words that express feel- es could give us the urge, push the words. Forcing my mind to walk in the park, tions are not hard to find. In ings would start oozing from or the “spark” to do positive create something and explore reality, they flow around us my brains sans the thoughts and fruitful endeavors or get like a spelunker won’t work. the sight of the and are always available if we of the coldness of winter, rath- done with our wants and needs No effect at all, no motivation only allow ourselves to be open er, the beauty and wonders it to keep us moving forward. to write. Frustrating but in this rainbow in the sky to recognize, be sensitive to brings. It looks like the white Here, I’ll share with you a cou- state of mind, I am just plain or a father holding and be aware of what we see sky meets the snow white earth ple of short and simple inspira- and simple not in the mood. and feel in our surroundings. It with specks of green leaves of tional literary works that I’ve It is quite a challenge when it his newborn baby, only takes a small opening for fir trees and red roofs creating read. The Starfish was penned happens. But sure, it happens. inspiration to break through. It a painted-like canvas. Trans- by an anonymous writer and It is different when my good listening to songs may be just a walk in the park, formation of my mood would the second one, Think Positive mood is back. I start to think with meaningful the sight of the rainbow in the swiftly happen with this awe- Thoughts Everyday were vers- of a topic which is appealing to sky or a father holding his new- some sight. This is an inspira- es written by Carol Schelling. me and at the same time catchy lyrics... born baby, listening to songs tion to write. to capture the attention of the with meaningful lyrics or the We’ve heard of other inspi- The Starfi sh readers. Then, comes the for- words of a friend, enjoying the rational stories like: a person A young man was walking mation of the essence and the to me more are those that touch blazing colors of autumn leaves was able to meet the challenges down the beach just before meat of the literary composi- on long-lasting real life values – falling from the trees, receiv- in the life because of someone dawn. In the distance he saw a tion, plus the effective ending personal, family, traditions, at- ing homemade Christmas who gave kind and generous frail old man. As he approached to make the composition com- tributes, characters, feelings, cards from our small children gesture of lifting him/her up he old man, he saw him pick- plete. Other writers are prob- sentiments, positive thoughts, or presents from our parents, to start a new episode in life. ing up stranded starfish and ably quicker to get the juice in etc. These are the topics which appreciating the thoughtful- The helping person became throwing them back into the their brains oozing. Some top- are a little time consuming and ness and kindness from family, an inspiration and idol to the sea. The young man gazed in ics touching on common or gen- needed a little longer time to friends and even from people needing person; a candidate wonder as the old man again eral interests and occurrences ponder on. I could just be star- we don’t know, reading books in the Miss Universe pageant and again threw the small like the four seasons, weather ing with no light bulb or balloon and poems, a drive though the when asked who was the most starfish from the sand to the conditions, celebration of holi- popping up on top of my head. memory lane or just reminisc- important person in her life, water. He asked him, “Why do days and special occasions like My husband would ask what ing happy moments in the past. the answer was her mother you spend so much energy do- Mother’s or Father’s day, and topic I was working on as he In short, inspirations could who singly sacrificed raising ing what seems to be a waste of vacations, homecoming events, passes by my computer room come from various sources- her four children, and at an- time?” The old man explained etc. are easier to tackle on. door. When he hears me say, from people, things, events or other beauty pageant, Miss ...... I realize that what appeals “Nada,” he would, then quickly occurrences. It could also come International, with a similar INSPIRATION P31

Buhay ni Inday (Inday Chronicles) NDAY ng buhay ko, ikaw raderie, fun and frolic. Even itself sounds lyrical and ro- was simple - sinugbang isda ug ay nasaan. Bigla kang through a not-so-unexpected mantic. SA ATIN ATIN baboy (grilled fish and pork) “Inagtampo. Ano ang da- passing of an aunt. The three hour ride from the prepared over a fire pit, ensal- hilan?” (My beloved, where can I will start my narrative in Tacloban airport was pleas- adang talong (eggplant salad), you be? You seem hurt and up- Tacloban which was devastat- ant although I feared for the steamed okra, kamote (yam), By MYRNA set. Why do you fret?) “Inday” ed by Super Typhoon Yolanda. van that carried 10 of us and LOPEZ and enough rice. like “Neneng” is an endear- Two aunts, who at the height our luggage that was packed Mitch and I walked the ment for a maiden or a young of the storm were given up for into every free space in the length of the shoreline from the girl. In old Visayan, it was an lost, live there and are too frail rear. There were hills to drive “Inday” like pantalan (pier) to the mouth endearment for a beloved. My to travel so we decided to hold around with dips and rises and of the river that connected the Papang is Cebuano and calls the Veloso-Pil clan’s reunion in a surprises. The driver was care- “Neneng” is an ocean to the tributaries up- me “Inday” so I claim this song town still in recovery. Mitch and ful and gently maneuvered the endearment for stream. The skies were blue as my own. I have not seen the titas (aunts) van. And he didn’t speed. and there was a slight breeze. I recall a young man, Ra- for decades and looked forward The rainy season which a maiden or a The day was perfect. mesh Gopaldas. We graduated to the event. brings typhoons and monsoons It was tempting to shrug off from high school in the same There were four generations is both a boon and a bane for young girl. In old the rest of our plans but family year. But he was from the boys’ represented at the gathering. this region. Mitch and I mar- Visayan, it was an waited in Tacloban. However department and I was from I mistakenly classified our veled at the acres of rice fields before we drove off for the trip the girls’. He saw my yearbook group the third generation and and at the hills filled with coco- endearment for a back, we picked a hefty stone photo with the nickname and was called out on it. Correc- nut trees. Leyte looked lush and and placed it on the floor of the he seemed tickled to call me tion, second generation pala green. The landscape seemed beloved. My Papang van. I was introduced to one of “Inday” whenever we crossed kami. Must have been a classic peaceful. Serene. It was easy to is Cebuano and the many tinuhoan (folk lore or paths. “Hi Inday!” he called out Freudian slip. Ang kabaw ra forget the fury visited upon the belief) of the Visayan region. with enthusiasm and a wave. I ang motigulang. (Only cara- towns to the northeast. calls me “Inday” so Three people joined our group wonder if he knew old Visayan baos grow old.) Hinundayan was the perfect which meant there were 13 of us and I wonder where he is now. I We left Manila with a broth- antidote for the frenzy that was I claim this song as in the vehicle. The inclusion of hope life has been good to him. er-in-law and his family two Manila. The people were cu- my own. the stone upped the count to 14 And where is Inday? She days before the reunion. We rious but respectful with shy and mollified the evil spirit. is in cultural immersion. Just wanted to visit Hinundayan, smiles and soft voices. Well Before this journal is over, I follow the brown straw hat their ancestral town. Hinun- there was no abundance of cars with easy access to the warm will relate more regional tino- through family reunions, ex- dayan, just like Dupax where and demanding trucks and waters. The coconut trees hoan especially those relating cursions, fiestas, and even a my Aquino relatives live and buses so they had no reason to that surrounded the property to observances during bereave- funeral. Hilong hilo na si Inday. Sibonga where the Lopez-Her- raise their voices to be heard. yielded enough fruits to sat- ment. But I relish the chance given mosisimas reside, has taken on We spent most of our vis- isfy our thirst for tubig sa bu- Stay tuned. The Inday to soak up the family cama- a mythical quality. The name it at the family beach house tong (coconut water). The food Chronicles will be continued. 28 Manila Mail COLUMNS August 16-31, 2015

n Editorial Show the results HE death and devastation following the wake of super typhoon Haiyan (Yolanda) in Novem- Tber 2013 triggered one of the biggest rescue and relief operations since the 2004 tsunami that struck Indonesia, India and Thailand. The United States and dozens of countries around the world responded to pleas for help from typhoon victims; initially sending troops and heavy equipment to retrieve corpses in Leyte and Samar, then cash and provisions to restore a sense of normalcy. Filipinos in the US sought Temporary Protect- ed Status (TPS) so they can continue working here and help families in the Philippines. The proposal is in deep freeze. The Fil-Am community mounted scores of fund-raising drives to benefit typhoon victims. In Washington, celebrity Fil-Ams gathered at the Kennedy Center for an evening of songs and speeches imploring help for a million Filipinos who lost their homes and many more whose lives were left in tatters. The government insisted that dona- tions be given to the Department of Social Welfare & Development (DSWD). And many complied. The government promised to pour about $4 bil- lion to build new homes and restore damaged in- frastructure, possibly even make things better. But now questions have been raised about how the money, including contributions from the Fil- Am community, was spent. The government said it’s disbursed about $1.75 billion from the Haiyan/ Yolanda fund. Critics ask, “where?” Granted the intrigue is fueled in large part by campaign politics, as Filipinos get ready to choose President Aquino’s successor next year, the doubts are a throwback to the crisis spawned by the in- adequate government response almost three years ’ ago. CNN Anderson Cooper’s reporting was credi- Why I ll Vote for Trump ble to most Filipinos despite strident denials from IYA, hiya ho, Trump is my Congressional District officials, including the administration-backed presidential candidate Mar Roxas, because the guy! 3. Klaus Buntua is “globetrot- “camera does not lie.” H I will vote for Donald ting. He and his true love are is The images coming out of Tacloban and other Trump in the 2016 presidential circumnavigating the globe. He is hard-hit areas offer scant evidence billions have elections because he is brave and fashioning a Russian accent. He been spent there. not afraid to tangle with any- was in a cruise in Eastern Europe. It’s simple enough for the Aquino administration body. He is the only one among WASHINGTON TSISMIS 4. Pablito Alarcon is busy – show the public where the money was spent. And the scores of candidates in both building schools for the poor ar- make sure they look what they’re worth; or they parties who can save us from By TSISMOSO eas in the Philippines. He gradu- can brace for the same kind of backlash right after boredom. He will save the Amer- ated “feeding” the Hungry. the Haiyan disaster. And with an election coming, ican people by entertaining them ington-Tagalog-Speakers-group. 5. Rey Cabacar is always in that can’t be a pleasant experience for them. with daily bombshells against en- This group is intended for Filipi- the pages of the Manila Mail. The trenched politicians and probably no-American living in the DC met- back pay he received during the making everybody into billion- ro area to meet, greet, share life 2nd World War as a “guerilla wa- aires like him. stories and their experiences, and ter boy” donated it to the recon- As President he can outshout ultimately, have FUN!!. struction of his elementary school MANILA MAIL Russia’s President Vladimir Putin This is a chance for us to start destroyed during the Pinatubo ex- A fortnightly Filipino Newspaper in Washington, D.C. or wipe out the smile in the face of new friendships, enjoy some hap- plosion in 1992. He is still barber- the Ayatollah of Iran. py hours, karaoke, watch Pac- ing on reduced time. 3942 Collis Oak Court, Fairfax, VA 22033 I like his name because Don- quiao fight, enjoy activities such 6. Ruben Curameng is still Online: www.manilamail.us ald represents the most famous as lunches/dinners, get away, mourning the passing of his son Walt Disney character, Donald sporting events, movies, shows, Ronald. He is in his late 80s and Editor-in-Chief: RODNEY J. JALECO Duck. I imagine a Trump presi- enjoying his Navy pension, social Associate Editors: LITO KATIGBAK and ARMANDO ALFARO food festivals, potlucks, etc., National Editor: BING C. BRANIGIN dency providing every city in the etc...... all Filipinos, young and old security and his civil service re- US with prestigious Trump ho- are encouraged to join this group. tirement. He and his wife Rose Columnists: J. G. AZARCON, JON MELEGRITO, tels, entertainment centers for the still bringing music to the com- EVELYN and OSCAR BUNOAN, “Who do I know here? Join us REBECCA PAGSIBIGAN, MYRNA M. LOPEZ most beautiful girls in the world and be the first to know when new munity the Senior Citizens in Fort BOBBY FEDERIGAN, LEANDRO CORONEL and in the US, establishing Trump Meetups are scheduled Log in Washington-Oxon Hill areas. and DINO DELA ROSA casinos in every city and town in with Facebook to find out 7. Jun Pedery’s passion is help Art Director: MARIO R. GALAPATE America and making all casino By creating a Meetup account, run the Fleet Reserve Association winnings tax free. you agree to the Terms of mem- of the United States (FRA), as its Contributing Editors: MAURESE OWENS, ANGELYN T. MARZAN and JENNIE L. ILUSTRE I will launch a campaign to bership. Secretary & Treasurer. He just make both Republicans and Dem- q q q got back from an FRA Regional CONTACT US: ocrats to join hands and ensure A man called Jun sent in the Convention in Fayetteville, North EDITORIAL: 703 589 6141 email: [email protected] his victory. He will make the Unit- following message to Rodney and Carolina with President of FRA ADVERTISING: Tels: 571 277 6071 | 703 856 1733 ed States of Trump the greatest Bert: Branch Four and Ladies Auxilia- 703 532 8920. 571 356 4151 • 571 274 8449 country in the world. Jun said: These old folks thank ry President Merlyn Eda and her ALBERTO M. ALFARO q q q you for you for thinking about Vice President Cristina Dixon, Founder, EIC Emeritus, Executive Editor Do you know that there are them. They are all in good spirits and Secretary Ruby Lopez. Manila Mail Communications, Inc. LLC, J. G. AZARCON, president groups of young Filipino Amer- (lots of “spirits” consumed). 8. Art Calguiran is still gain- Publisher icans who are trying to keep up 1. Nap Lechoco is still in “hog” fully employed. President of FRA with the custom in the Philippines heaven and still on ‘honeymoon BR 4. Helps run ISA, MHC and Emails: [email protected] | [email protected] of hanging out with friends after stage”. He got married to a young- USTAA. office hours in Washington D.C. er lady about 40 years his junior. 9. Darlito Quimen of course The MANILA MAIL, founded in 1991, is the only Filipino Yes, there are such groups in exis- 2. Dave Valderrama is run- still mourning the passing of wife American fortnightly newspaper in the tri-state area of Washington D. C., Maryland and Virginia. It is distributed free tence and can be reached through ning the National Cultural Pili- Angie and still busy with the Mrs. in Asian and Filipino American stores and other outlets. the social media. Sample: “Join us! pino Foundation. He is also di- Philippines Home for Senior Citi- Ferdinand Marcos rose ing in the death of 44 police other major cities across the fect union. to volunteer in the campaign of through the ranks as an LP but commandos in just one day, country. That left a lasting In his speech to mark the Pres. Corazon Aquino, the in- moved to the Nacionalista Par- cast doubts about Roxas’ abil- impression on me. anniversary of Selma, Presi- cumbent’s mother. ty (NP) when he saw his path to ity to control subalterns. Meanwhile, the US war in ...... His biodata lists his role in Malacanang blocked by party ...... Vietnam was escalating. Hav- 50 YEARS AGO P31 the first financing of Discovery affiliation; if he did not declare SPOILER P31 30 Manila Mail COLUMNS August 16-31, 2015 On the After-Eff ects of the ‘Spoliarium’ UAN Luna’s award-winning exercising control over a colo- both represented the highest continued to embroil himself in painting in oil, “Spoliari- ny and that the Filipino artists development of aesthetic arts in CULTURE portraits of family members and Jum,” now the subject of a could stand without reservation the European tradition. Before WATCH relatives. Luna died in Decem- soon-to-be-released opera, was with their counterparts in Eu- Luna’s Gold Medal in 1884, he ber of 1899 at age 42. one of the few silent and subtle rope and elsewhere. Rizal, in the was the first Filipino to win a The many works of both Luna precedents, onwards from 1881 same vein, toasted the virtue of silver medal at the same Madrid By BOBBY and Hidalgo, prodigious in de- in arts and literature, to the being in Europe, exposed to cul- Exposition in 1881 for his “The M. FEDERIGAN grees, however, did not advance full development of the Filipi- tures other than Filipino, which Death of Cleopatria.” Luna later the cause of the Propaganda no nationalism, the flowering could provide incentives for fu- won two more Gold Medals, one In a banquet Movement calling for the imme- of conscious beliefs planted in ture individual actions. To those for his “Spoliarium” from the diate independence from Spain. the minds of the transients and in attendance, European culture Society of the French Artists in attended by While their association with the exiles in Madrid and Barcelo- was an eye-opener. 1886 and the other from the Ex- members of the Movement was na that their compatriots back The opening of the Suez Ca- posicion Universal de Barcelona Filipino transients emotional, their contributions home stood ready for indepen- nal in 1869, the shortest shipping in 1888 for his “La Batalla de and exiles honoring to the pursuit of the stated goal dence from Spain’s colonial route between the Philippines Lepanto” (The Battle of Lepan- were viewed as wanting. At one rule. Juan Luna securing an and Europe, facilitated the trips to). Hidalgo was awarded three the achievements time, Rizal, in his letter to his honored place even in a Span- of Filipino scholars to advance Gold Medals: one for his “La Bar- friend Blumentritt, chided Luna ish culture, along with Felix their knowledge and skills in Ma- ca de Aqueronte” in 1887 by the of Luna and for being a “Hispanophile” for Resurrection Hidalgo and Pe- drid and Rome. Luna, who had Philippine General Exposition in Hidalgo, the patriot painting in 1886 the “Espana y dro Paterno, was manifestation been tutored by the Academia Madrid, and another one in 1891 Filipinas,” portraying two ladies, enough of the Filipinos’ vision de Dibujo y Pintura’s (Academy by the International Exposition Graciano Lopez arm in arm and dressed in their and competence for self-rule. of Designs and Paintings) mas- of Fine Arts; and in 1904 for respective costumes ascending Twelve years before the ters Domingo Saez and Lorenzo “The Assassination of Governor Jaena, in his toast, a stairway to an unlimited hori- Filipinos’ open revolt for inde- Rocha, left for Europe at a time General Bustamante” by the St. pointed out that zon. However, for the second edi- pendence led by Andres Bon- when the artistic culture was Louis Universal Exposition in tion of Rizal’s “Noli Me Tangere” ifacio on August 23, 1896, in heavily influenced by the Aca- Missouri. such achievements (Touch Me Not), Luna agreed to what is now known as the “Cry demics, the followers of a school At the later month of 1884, illustrate for him. of Pugad Lawin,” Juan Luna’s of thought who were obsessed by Luna moved to Paris to “per- were “irrefutable Luna’s thematic “El Pacto de “Spoliarium” won the Gold Med- allegorical portrayal on canvas fect” his skills. It was at this proof” that ability Sangre,” (The Blood Compact), a al at the Exposicion National of bloody historical events. The time when Impressionism, as historical portrayal in 1885 of an de Bellas Artes held in Madrid “Spoliarium,” painted in Rome an art form, was riding high on and genius were event in the 16th Century where in 1884; Felix Resurrection Hi- on a canvas measuring four a wave of creativity and pop- the Spanish explorer Legaspi dalgo won the Silver Medal, in meters in height and seven me- ularity. Claude Monet, Edgar not in the sole and Filipino Datu Katunaw en- the same exhibit, for his “Vir- ters in width, shows fallen glad- Degas, Mary Cassatt, Pierre-Au- domain of those tered into a blood compact, was genes Cristianas Expuestas al iators being dragged to a dimly gust Renoir, Paul Cezanne, and the subject of many heated dis- Populacho” (Virtuous Women seen pile of corpses later to be Paul Gauguin, among others, exercising control cussions among the propagan- Exposed to the Mob). Earlier, dumped to a morgue beneath the were names on Parisian lips. dists. The prevailing argument Pedro Paterno broke into print Roman Coliseum. “Spoliarium” Unaffected by France’s artistic over a colony and was that Spain, in the 333 years in 1881 with his book of verses, is from the Latin words “spoilia environment, Luna produced that the Filipino of her colonizing presence, had “Sampaguita” (popular flower opima,” meaning rich spoils. It several creative works judged by not lived up to the agreement species), precursor to a still was first purchased by the Mu- experts to be technically superi- artists could of bringing progress and pros- evolving body of Philippine lit- nicipality of Barcelona for twen- or to his famous 1884 gold-win- perity to the Filipinos and such erature, one of the many roads ty thousand pesetas and hung ning painting. Luna’s intimate stand without painting should not perpetuate to national identity. for viewing at the City Hall; it is portraits in 1890 of his wife in reservation with the glaring failure. The whole In a banquet attended by Fil- now at the main gallery, the Hall his “Mi Esposa,” in 1889 of his scene, in oil, however, became ipino transients and exiles hon- of Masters, of the National Muse- son Andres, and in 1890 of his their counterparts a symbol during the revolution oring the achievements of Luna um of the Philippines, located in daughter Liling dressed in ar- against Spain. The painting is and Hidalgo, the patriot Gra- Manila. mor, all in a private collector’s in Europe and now in the Malacanang Palace, ciano Lopez Jaena, in his toast, Luna, in his lifetime, pro- safekeeping, show fluidity and serving as a strict reminder to pointed out that such achieve- duced about one thousand paint- spontaneity of style. Luna stayed elsewhere. its primary resident that one ments were “irrefutable proof” ings. He and the ever-competi- in Europe for 17 years and after should abide by terms of any for- that ability and genius were tive Hidalgo stayed away from a domestic tragedy left for the mal agreement, whether written not in the sole domain of those the clutches of “academism” and Philippines in 1894, where he and sealed in ink or in blood.

Jojo Binay can still win ANILA. Despite all the of controversy around him, a Joseph Estrada 39.86 percent in That’s what gives Binay bad news swirling OBSERVER certain, if smaller, chunk of the 1998, Gloria Arroyo 39.99 per- hope that he can still win de- Maround Vice President electorate claims to still want cent in 2004, and the current spite the scandals hounding Jojo Binay, the crowds still turn to vote for him for president. president, Benigno Aquino III, him and despite the drastic out wherever he goes. His share of the electoral pie 42.08 percent in 2010. drop in his survey numbers. Are those people just being By LEANDRO has come down precipitously The consistent history of And that’s probably why DD CORONEL polite, as is the Filipino cus- from some 70 percent to now having a minority president is Binay’s detractors haven’t tom, and warmly welcome any less than 30 percent. That is a dangerous, or at least not truly stopped their attacks against guest to their communities? Or And so, because chasm of a drop in popularity. representative of all the people. him and are relentlessly press- maybe they’re the usual Fili- But that 30 percent, plus a In many other countries, if no ing their case(s) against him in pino rubber-neckers who have our election laws few hundred thousand votes candidate gets a majority of the Senate, the courts and the nothing better to do than come allow a minority here and there, could still ele- the vote, a run-off election is media. As a counterattack, he out and gawk around to see any vate him to the presidency next held between the two highest has now sued some of his critics celebrity? president, Binay year. That depends on how vote-getters in order to have a for P200 million in damages. Binay continues to go many will vie for the presiden- truly majority president. As I’ve written previously, around the country, even as can still win with cy. Our lawmakers should look in the more politically mature Makati City, his home base, fig- his 30 percent We used to have a two-party into this issue to debate and societies of the world, such a uratively “burns” as Rome did setup but now our election for decide whether to make it pile of controversies as Binay in Nero’s time. He’s testing the or so share of president and vice president compulsory to have a majority is experiencing now would people’s reactions to his pres- allows multiple candidates. president, meaning gaining a have led to the political demise ence as the controversy over the electorate. The candidate with the highest vote of at least 50 percent plus of the accused politician. And, his alleged amassing of illegal plurality (not necessarily ma- one votes. actually, in those societies, the wealth rages in his home city. Remember, Ramos jority) wins. And so, because our election accused would have excused And maybe he can’t stand only got less than And, because of that, we’ve laws allow a minority presi- himself from contention at the to be in Metro Manila because had a minority president in ev- dent, Binay can still win with first smell of any wrongdoing. it’s too hot for him there. As the 24 percent of the ery election in the post-Cory his 30 percent or so share of the But this is the Philippines. saying goes, “if you can’t stand Aquino era. electorate. Remember, Ramos Honor, integrity and gallantry the heat, get out of the kitchen”. vote in 1992! Fidel Ramos garnered only only got less than 24 percent of don’t necessarily go with our And yet, despite the vortex 23.6 percent of the votes in 1992, the vote in 1992! politics. August 16-31, 2015 COLUMNS Manila Mail 31

SCAPEGOATS Like a basketball game, you seem not to not only shameful but an absolute embarrass- From Page 24 OPEN LETTER Concluded Bautista, “The Om- know how to play “offense and defense” as a ment to our nation. budsman has technically disas- From Page 24 team player. You might be good “one on one” We will continue to fervently pray that you sociated Roxas and Abaya from dignitaries officially assigned to welcome their player, but that is not the kind of leader our will soon see the light and finally drop your the bribery, extortion, fraud and remains as they were given the honors of being country needs. ambition to become a Presidentiable candi- corruption connected to the MRT martyrs. I had not heard from you any criticism I just want to share the reaction of my son date. You belong to the same group of the likes deals." and offer a principled stand about the tragedy Alex Valera, a Fil-Am youth and one of our MHC of Senator Enrile, Senator Revilla and Senator That makes, not simply in Mamasapano. You did not even say a word Delegate to the United Nations Youth General Estrada who should be made answerable for na- whipping boys, but scapegoats about your views against extreme Islamic ter- Assembly: tional plunder. Transparency and accountabili- of Vitangcol and the five other rorism in Mindanao. “I admit, I am far from being well-versed ty are some of the traits we are looking for to indictees, Wilson De Vera, Marlo You are against BBL (Bangsa Moro Basic in the intricacies (and pecularities) of Filipino lead our nation. Dela Cruz, Manolo Maralit, Fed- Law). What is your alternative and how can you politics, but I need to make sure that all of us Hindi ko na sasabihin sa iyo ang sinabi ni erico Remo and Arturo Soriano, make the autonomous region of our brother young Filipino-Americans are aware of a man Vice Ganda: “Eh di Wow”, bagkus, Mahiya ka uncle-in-law of Vitangcol. and sister Muslims in Mindanao stronger, with- who personifies ineptitude and dishonesty, one naman sa taumbayan. This brings us to a declaration out sacrificing the territorial integrity of our VP Binay.” Sa mahal kung mga kababayan, “Tama na , made by Mr. Aquino in a speech country, towards a sustainable and comprehen- Mr. Vice President, I am tired of preaching Korupsyon ay iwaksi na, nang ating bayan ay back in 2013, in the course of sive peace in Mindanao. I have not heard from how amazing the Philippines is, but at the lumaya na. announcing the LRT-1 Cavite you express concrete solution in Mindanao to same time feeling a ripping dissonance in VP Binay, have mercy on the Philippines and Extension. He cheerfully an- say the least tell us your blue print of resolving my core. I used to tell myself that the Philip- the Filipino nation. nounced that, when completed the armed conflicts in the region. pines honestly cannot and probably will not in 2015, the extension would Speaking of China, we want to hear from you undergo a drastic shift in culture to reject all Respectfully, result in faster train service. condemnation of China’s aggressive actions kinds of corruption. But guess what, that’s It would also transport some and acts of war in South China Seas or West what the last generation thought, and the Rev. Atty. Arnedo Valera 250,000 commuters daily into Philippine Sea. We are waiting for you to help last one before that, and the last one before Executive Director, Migrant Heritage Com- Metro Manila. push for a collective and stronger solution to that. mission, A Fil-Am advocacy organization that And to spice his impressive an- resolve the said issue. Instead you have been In my lifetime, I pray to see changes in the has been helping Filipino immigrants, a human nouncement, Aquino also vowed pushing for a bilateral talks with China without Philippines, I want to see us flourish. No, that rights lawyer for the last 29 years, Main Coun- in his usual down-home verbiage: clear and principled basis. does not mean more beautiful beaches/resorts. sel of Mendiola Massacre case , Former and “At kapag hindi po nangyari A person who wants to be the President of That means true democracy, social progressive- Past President of SALAG –Structural Alternative ito, nandiyan naman si Secretary our country should not only have the credibil- ness, lessening the class gap, and an unmoving Legal Assistance for Grassroots in the Philip- Abaya, na mangangasiwa nito… ity and integrity but also stand to his or her intolerance to all forms of political dishonesty pines, Legal Consultant on International Law dalawa na kami na siguro ay principles to be able to contribute in finding a and corruption.” and Human Rights – Peace Talks between the magpapasagasa sa tren.” (And lasting solution(s) on the problems facing our You are not a good role model as leader of GRP and NDFP, Managing Attorney – Law Of- if that doesn’t happen, there is nation. We do not need your political posturing our country. The national scandal of corrup- fices Valera & Associates PC, Immigration and Secretary Abaya, who is over- on the podium and gain political points at the tion and plunder that you and your family are Anti-Discrimination Law firm based in Fairfax, seeing this…the two of us will expense of our peoples’ welfare and interest. involved at this stage of your political career is VA (Metropolitan Washington DC Area) probably have ourselves run over by a train) Furious over the frequent true as I came from an affluent fam- That in itself is the real crux of the breakdowns of the light rail GREAT DIVIDE ily given the fact that we were able matter which makes us so unwilling INSPIRATION system, some vengeful netizens From Page 25 to afford to even come to the states to talk and discuss these import- From Page 27 recently dug up the video of “White” America turning more shows something. To them being born ant topics amongst other races and that the stranded starfish would Aquino’s speech and posted it brown by the minute. It raised “privileged” in America, coming from even in our own circles. die if left in the morning sun. on social media. That video has questions from topics of “White different upbringings meant that they Most of us just simply compart- “But there must be thousands since gone viral. Privilege” and the idea “Whiteness” did not associate with us because mentalize these problems and brush of beaches and millions of star- However, if anyone is wait- or having a certain benefit or mar- we were too “filipino”, “itim” or it under the rug. That is not the fish,” exclaimed the young man. ing – and hoping – for Aquino ginalization. One white teacher not “American” enough. It’s almost way to solve our nation’s problems. “How can your effort make a real and Abaya to dutifully lay down even goes as far as mentioning, “I as if this broken mindset on the is- In a nation stuck in this “great di- difference?” The old man looked their bodies on the rails to make represent something bigger than sue of color/race had infected their vide”, it is clearly being reflected down at the small starfish in his good on their vow, you may have myself here. My skin color represents thoughts imprinted into their young even in our Fil Am communities hand as he threw it to safety in to hold your breath for a little something bigger than myself.” naive mind. and it is more than just a “black or the sea, and he said: “It makes while longer. This is exactly what I experienced At the end of the day we all white” issue. I beg our readers to a difference to this one.” You see, according to Mala- growing up in a white community, in struggle with race and culture to really think about race and culture cañang and DOTC insiders, Aqui- a white top ranking high school. The a degree, but with all of the roller- in your own experiences and even Think Positive no and Abaya are still looking sad thing is I also saw a similar form coaster events that have happened amongst your circles of communi- Thoughts Everyday for willing whipping boys and and fashion of this as a child with the in our country these last few years ties. It’s time to challenge the “40 Take a moment to look around scapegoats to take their place. Fil Am Community, being that I had in the Obama Administration from Million and Counting” to take this and smile at your life and your (gregmacabenta@hotmail. darker skin than the American born all the killings, to all of the riots, it seriously, given that it will become choices. Don’t worry about the com) Fil Am kids. To them it gave them is the spread of fear of the unknown more and more relevant as these paths you should have taken or the impression that I was from a poor and lack of understanding with one elections push forward. Where do the opportunities you ignored. class, which actually was not even another that causes these issues. you stand in the “Great Divide”? Instead, breathe in the life that 50 YEARS AGO surrounds you – let it fill your soul with light and hope. From Page 29 dent Obama said that “What could bats against Obama policies and in Reflect on the past and all the be more American than what hap- THE BIG DEBATE his presence at a prayer breakfast RESIDENCE memories. pened in this place? What could From Page 29 meeting, was in his usual mellow From Page 25 Good and bad that made you more profoundly vindicate the to pay check? How can Hillary Clinton and cerebral self. He demonstrated tablishing the misrepresentation who you are today. Your journey idea of America than plain and lecture me about student loans when sharp wit in his closing statement of the naturalized citizen of his is far from over, as you continue humble people – the unsung, the I owed over a hundred thousand in on why he is so different from the intention to reside in the US at to grow, change, and flourish. downtrodden, the dreamers not of student just four years ago?” other candidates. “I’m the only one the time of his application and Life can be so busy, and we high station, not born to wealth Former Arkansas Governor Mike who separated Siamese twins…he admission to citizenship. This is sometimes take for granted the or privilege, not of one religious Huckabee had his memorable mo- only one to take out half a brain… highly unlikely. important little things that make tradition but many, coming to- ments attacking Obama’s nuclear although if you go to Washington With respect to naturalized Fil- us smile. Look at the sunset, share gether to shape the destiny of this deal with Iraq.”Pres. Reagan said- one would think that somebody ipino World War II veterans, Con- a cup of coffee with your best nation.” trust but verify. And this president beat me to it.” gress specifically provided that friend, or hear the wind rustle America is changing every day trusts and vilifies. He trusts our en- The 24 millions viewers wanted to the presumption of lack of intent through the trees. Take some time and is not yet finished, he adds. emies and vilifies anyone who dis- know if there is anyone among the to reside in the US does not apply “What greater expression of faith to listen to life and feel the sun agrees with him.” debaters up to the challenge to face to them. Continuing residence in on your face, and stop to watch in the American idea; what great- Dr. Ben Carson, the famous pe- the Philippines after their natu- er form of patriotism is there than up with Clinton. It’s a gargantuan the butterflies in your garden. to believe that America is strong diatric surgeon who burst into the task. Sen. Hillary Clinton is a magi- ralization will not be a ground for Take a moment everyday to enough to be self-critical; that media limelight delivering brick- cian. She can make emails disappear. revocation of US citizenship. think positive thoughts. each generation can look upon its imperfections and say we can do better.” tion looks to be limited to Rox- Poe was running 2nd be- finding a party – the Nation- When I boarded a boat 50 years SPOILER as and the graft-tainted Vice hind Binay in the last survey alist People’s Coalition (NPC) ago to come to America, I had no From Page 29 President Jejomar Binay. But (it would be interesting to see which is currently part of an idea what’s to become of me. Now The controversial govern- elections are very rarely that if Roxas improves his standing LP coalition. Duterte, Mar- at least I know. We are all part of ment response to the Novem- simple. There’s Sen. Grace Poe, after the President’s ‘anoint- cos and Defensor-Santiago, the making of America. Regardless ber 2013 Haiyan/Yolanda di- Davao City Mayor Rod Duterte, ment’). Roxas is reportedly who’ve fared much better than of our political persuasions and saster also raised questions moral convictions, we all have a Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” courting Poe to be his run- Roxas in the surveys, can eas- role in shaping the destiny of this about his ability to manage Marcos Jr., former Sen. Panfi- ning mate. ily find a party they can run nation. crisis. lo Lacson, Sen. Miriam Defen- If Poe decides to run, her under. Send your comments to jd- With the President’s en- sor-Santiago, to name just a connection to Sen. Chiz Escu- More significantly, they can [email protected] dorsement, the political equa- few. dero, improves her chances of play kingmaker. 32 MANILA MAIL August 16-31, 2015

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