WEEKLY ISSUE 70 IN 11 STATES ONLINE Vol. IX Issue 394 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, , CA 94103 Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 [email protected] Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 Farewell to the Grand Imported packages Dame of Fil-Am politics under P10k are now Duterte flip-flops anew, says tax free By Corina Oliquino | PH not severing ties with U.S. FilAm Star Correspondent By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent Starting October 25, imported packages and personal packages received through the post office and COMMUNITY | B3 the Bureau of Customs amounting to P10,000 and below are now tax-free. Under the new provisions stated Bato: Celebs on drug list in the official Customs Administrative Order (CAO) 02-2016, it will imple- ment Section 423 of the New Customs Modernization and Tariffs Act (CMTA) – signed into law as Republic Act 10863 of the Bureau of Customs. According to the press statement released by PhilPost, the new Customs Administrative Order (CAO) 02-2016 provides that “no duties and taxes shall be collected on goods with a freight on ENTERTAINMENT | B7 board or free carrier value of P10,000 and below.” From left to right, Ambassador to PH Philip Goldberg, U.S. Asst. Sec. of State Daniel Russel, U.S. Asst. Sec. of Defense for Asian and Win or lose Moreover, RA 10863 is also Pacific Security Kelly Magsamen. (Photos: en.wikipedia.org / www.state.gov / www.defense.gov) responsible for the increase in the threshold value or “de minimis After due consultations with , Duterte clarified that he was at a news conference in Davao upon value” of imported, taxable goods to administration officials, U.S. Assistant not cutting ties with the superpower arrival from his recent state visit to P100,000. Secretary of State Daniel Russel and in the interest of the estimated four Beijing. “This will amend the threshold Ambassador to the Philip million living in America. “You have to take my words in value or de minimis on duty-free im- Goldberg assured that the U.S. remains This was a complete turn-around from the context of what I’ve been saying all ports from the outdated P10 ceiling to a “steady and trusted” partner of the his repeated rants against the U.S. and along. It’s not severance P10,000,” PhilPost said. Philippines as though acknowledging declaration of military and economic of ties; severance of ties means The new administrative order another flip-flop by President Duterte “separation” from the country’s long- you cut the diplomatic relations. I can- will benefit Filipinos who love to shop on the country’s supposed severance of time ally. not do that,” Duterte said. SPORTS NEWS| A5 abroad online or those who rely from ties with the U.S. “Sever is to cut, separate is just to The President added, “Why? It is TO PAGE A7 Shortly before Russel rushed to chart another way of doing it,” he said TO PAGE A7 Bill seeks Anti-Wire- Osmena warns of Duterte’s ouster; Robredo tapping law upgrade denies seeking U.N. approval to unseat PH prez to include coup d’état, By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent drug violations, money- For mishandling the international tions Secretary General Ban Ki-moon affairs and relations of the Philippines, in Ecuador to seek the global body’s VP Leni Robredo Sen. Sergio Osmena III former Sen. Sergio Osmeña III on support to unseat President Duterte. (Photo: www.politics.com.ph) (Photo: www.politics.com.ph) laundering & others Monday warned of the possible ouster Reports earlier said Robredo By Macon Araneta | of President Duterte and said the more traveled to Ecuador from October 15 “How do I describe his handling? Mis- going the other direction.” FilAm Star Correspondent enemies Duterte makes abroad, the to 19 to seek Ban’s blessing and enlist handling,” Osmeña said. Osmeña said Duterte needs to pol- more chances of his being booted out U.N. support in ousting Duterte. The “We are not supposed to make ish his diplomatic skills as his words Sen. Panfilo Lacson, chair of the of office. President had earlier cursed the U.N. enemies. We’re supposed to make and actions affect the country and its Senate committee on public order and Osmena expressed this view the official for criticizing his war on drugs. friends. There is such a thing as diplo- people. dangerous drugs, sponsored Senate same time Vice-president Leni Ro- Osmeña said Duterte is making macy, iyung tact na hindi ka magsasal- “I think President Duterte means Bill No. 1210 or the Expanded Anti- bredo came out to dismiss speculations enemies, a behavior he said should ita ng masakit, leaving the doors open. well. I was happy when he won, but Wiretapping Act of 2016 which he that she had a meeting with United Na- not be exhibited by a country’s leader. But we’re not practicing that. We’re TO PAGE A7 said should be viewed as a vital tool to enhance crime prevention and sup- pression. FAS’ fast guide to NorCal Pinoy candidates Lacson sponsored on the Senate floor on Wednesday the Bill which he By Harvey I. Barkin principally authored, along with Sena- Part 1. The word war rag- tors Gringo Honasan, Grace Poe, and ing between presidential Sonny Angara. candidates Donald Trump With considerable advances in and Hilary Clinton makes technology, Lacson noted that the it easy to forget about the country’s laws should be adaptive and important issues in our own responsive thus calling for the need to communities. And that there amend its 51-year-old Anti-Wiretap- are also Filipino-American ping Law. candidates running for pub- He stressed that current technol- lic offices in the November 8 ogy has made some crimes beyond cov- general elections. erage of existing wiretapping laws. Below are some of the He explained that law enforce- Pinoy candidates making ment agencies and the military must their pitch in their own be able to prevent and detect crimes by words. FilaAm candidates running for public office in Northern being able to intercept communi (L-R) Juslyn Manalo, Mae Torlakson, Marjan Philhour, Vicente Songcayawon, Magdalena De Guzman TO PAGE A7 TO PAGE A4 A2 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 ph news Bill on First Philippine Republic Day approved by Lower House PH, China sign memo of By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent A House of Representatives future Filipino generations the “The upheaval understanding to panel last October 4 approved groundwork for democracy,” of nationalistic the measure declaring Janu- Sy-Alvarado. fervor leading to our suppress drug crimes ary 23 of every year as a special Moreover, the independence was working holiday in the entire solon said that Filipinos and followed with cool By Elpidio Estioko country to honor the declara- the Philippines being the First and calm which was cal points and determine tion of the First Philippine Republic in Asia are “proud of thought to make the specific measures for Republic. their strong democratic and gains for Philip- cooperation by frequent Filed by Bulacan District republican ideals as a nation.” pine democracy consultation.” 1 Representative Jose Antonio And added that it was on and republicanism The protocol like- Sy-Alvarado, House Bill 477 June 12, 1898 when Gen. Emilio more lasting and wise states that there shall “inspire and instill a sense Aguinaldo declared the Phil- permanent through will be an exchange of of pride in the Filipino people.” ippines free from the yoke of the enactment of the experience with the par- The House of Representa- foreign subjugation. first organic law for ticipants sending their tives committee on revision of According to The Philip- the Philippine Re- PDEA Dir. Gen. Isidro Lapena narcotics investigators laws chaired by Rep. Marlyn pine Star, the Bulacan solon public,” Sy-Alvarado (photo: www.pageone.ph) to their counterparts for Primicias-Agabas of Pangasinan noted the important events in said. Philippine Drug Enforce- training or research. approved House Bill 477 also the country that took place in “The beginning ment Agency (PDEA) Director As to confidentiality, the known as the “First Philippine Barasoian Church in Malolos, of Filipino democra- General Isidro “Sid” Lapena, in requesting participant will Republic Day.” Sy-Alvarado Bulacan such as the convening cy and self-govern- an email dispatch from Beijing take all necessary measures to said, “The holiday declaration of the First Philippine Congress ment, indigenously to this writer Tuesday said, maintain the confidentiality will commemorate the decla- on September 15, 1898, the concluded, magni- Raising of the Philippine flag in 1946 “The Protocol on Cooperation of all information and docu- ration of the First Philippine drafting of the Malolos Con- fies the political ma- (photo: www.gov.ph) between PDEA and the Narcot- ments received. “The requesting Republic on Jan. 23, 1899 at the stitution from September 29, turity and readiness feat and achievement of our ics Control Bureau of the Min- participant will not transfer in the of 1898 to January 21, 1899 and of our forefathers at the turn of forefathers in commemorating istry of Public Security of the any information, documents, or Malolos, Bulacan.” the inauguration of the First that century,” Sy-Alvarado said, January 23 as a national holi- People’s Republic of China was technical measures to any third In a statement released by Philippine Republic on January stressing the need for Filipinos day,” Sy-Alvarado added. signed on October 20, in order participant without the prior the House of Representatives, 23, 1899. to commemorate January 23 of Under House Bill 477, the to enhance the participants’ written consent of the requested the Bill is a refiled proposal and Furthermore, the church every year. National Historical Commis- cooperation on the suppression participant,’ Gen. Lapena was approved during the 16th through Presidential Decree No. In the explanatory note of sion (NHC) in partnership with and control of drug crimes”. opined. Congress on third and final 260 was proclaimed as National House Bill 477, Sy-Alvarado the Department of Education Under the Protocol of Co- “Any dispute arising from reading, Agabas confirmed. Shrine by then President Ferdi- noted that “our beliefs and (DepEd) shall plan and imple- operation which will be effective the interpretation, applica- “The significance of Janu- nand Marcos on August 1, 1973. aspirations as a nation, united ment activities for the “First in five years, the scope of coop- tion or implementation of this ary 23, 1899 is that the First To date, only two politi- in pursuit for life, liberty and Philippine Republic Day” and eration will include exchange of protocol,” according to Gen. Philippine Republic came into cians were inaugurated at the enjoyment of the benefits of “ensure that the significance information and data on drug Lapena, “will be settled amica- being as the sovereign choice of Barasoian Church. General their democracy, is encapsu- of the historical event will con- crimes; cooperation in drug bly by consultations of negotia- the people. It was a conscious was inau- lated by the nation’s rich and tinue to inspire and instill pride crime investigation; assistance tion between the participants choice to reject a dictato- gurated on January 23, 1899 noble history.” among Filipinos on the rich and in repatriation of drug crimi- through diplomatic channels”. rial and revolutionary govern- and former President Joseph “I hope that we can give noble history of the nation.” nals; and exchange and training The protocol will take ef- ment and establish for all the Estrada on June 30, 1998. due recognition with this great of narcotics investigators. fect for five years and will be In the exchange of informa- renewed for similar periods, tion and data on drug crimes, unless one participant officially Beauty queen revives Duterte’s Hitler reference faux pas each participant will provide notifies the other through dip- By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent to the other, an updated list of lomatic channels, of its inten- drug suspects with complete tion to suspend or terminate A Filipino beauty queen drew Budinsky answered. supporters if you didn’t understand She noted that all her life, her profile and each participant will tis protocol. In such a case, the flak on social media after she called “Oh my God! Our President is how I am. I got that idea from countrymen always teased her as ‘Hitler’ because they did not know provide to the other, the status protocol will remain valid until attention once more to President doing Hitler stuff here in the Philip- online news, newspapers with head- Rodrigo Duterte’s reference to Nazi pines,” exclaimed Schweighart. lines saying Duterte is Hitler -- like that Hitler was not German. of any arrested drug suspect for sixty days. leader Adolf Hitler in a Facebook “That’s crazy,” Budinsky but for the good ... Peace,” she said. In fact, she said Hitler was the purpose of conducting fur- The Protocol of Coopera- live video. quipped, before asking which plat- “Guys, I’m a Duterte follower. Austrian. “So, when I saw my fellow ther investigation in the latter’s tion was signed by Gen. Isidro Miss Philippines-Earth 2016 form the live video was being aired. The people who talk to me everyday delegate I made a soft joke about it country. Lapena, in behalf of the Philip- Imelda Schweighart asked fellow Schweighart, who immediately know how (delighted) I am to see out of excitement,” she wrote in a Gen. Lapena said, “Under pines and by Hu Minglang, Austria titlist Kimberly deleted the video, attempted an and experience the change he has lengthy Facebook post. the mode of cooperation, the director general, of the Narcot- Budinsky if Hitler was from her apology for her “soft joke,” saying made (to) happen so far. I am half Schweighart is the country’s participants will cooperate with ics Control bureau, Ministry of country. she made the remark out of excite- German. That is the reason why I representative in the Miss Earth pageant on October 29 at the Mall each other under this Protocol Public Security, in behalf of the “Okay, that’s a bad question ment. talked to a fellow delegate about because we normally don’t talk “I am (so extreme) so forgive Hitler who is Austrian,” said Sch- of Asia Arena in City. and designate working-level fo- People’s Republic of China. about Hitler. But, yeah, he is,” me my fellow Filipinos and Duterte weighart. Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star A3 ph news Samsung Galaxy Note 7 banned in PAL, Pacific, Air Asia & other airlines Rise in teenage pregnancy reveals

By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent need for sex education in schools By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent Flag carrier Philippine imprisonment of up to 10 smart phones exploding and Airlines announced it would years, or both. catching fire. enforce a total ban on Sam- The Civil Aviation “Moreover, all are en- Since the Philippines sung Galaxy Note 7 devices Authority of the Philippines joined to require passengers was tagged as “the gold to ensure the safety of pas- (CAAP) earlier urged airline not to stow these devices in medalist” in Southeast Asia sengers and the aircraft. operators, officials of the any checked baggage, but in terms of teen pregnancy, “If a passenger is in pos- Manila International Airport instead carry these devices Sen. Bam Aquino stressed session of a Samsung Note 7 Authority and other airport with them where an incident the need to further optimize prior to boarding an aircraft, managers nationwide to can be immediately miti- sex education in schools. the airline will deny boarding prohibit the use and battery gated,” the memorandum During the senate educa- until the device is removed charging of Samsung Galaxy stated. tion committee hearing, (from) his person, carry-on Note 7 to ensure the safety of Other major commercial National Youth Commission or checked baggage,” said airlines—Cebu Pacific and (NYC) Commissioner Per- Maria Cielo Villaluna, PAL Air Asia—also banned the cival Cendana revealed that External Communications use and charging of Galaxy every day, 600 girls aged 19 chief. Note 7 during flights to en- years and below give birth in Passengers traveling sure public safety following the Philippines. with Samsung Galaxy Note 7 reports that the phones’ bat- In the same hearing, the phones should contact Sam- teries have caught fire during Department of Education sung or their wireless carrier charging and normal use. (DepEd) acknowledged the Sen. Bam Aquino (Photo: www.newsbytes.ph) immediately to obtain in- Samsung Galaxy Note 7 Reports showed three problem, saying the ris- formation on how to return (photo: www.ubergizmo.com) Australian airlines have ing rate in teen pregnancy ing rise in number of teen “UNFPA country repre- their phones and arrange earlier banned passengers motivated the agency to pregnancies in the country. sentative Klaus Beck high- for a refund or a replacement passengers. from using or charging the implement a comprehensive The Senator also cited lighted the importance device. CAAP Acting Director mobile device during flights sexuality education across records of the Philippine Sta- of including sexuality educa- The U.S. Department of Jim Sydiongco made the due to concerns over the the country. tistics Authority from 2011 to tion in our Philippine educa- Transportation, the Federal advisory after Samsung Elec- phone’s fire-prone batteries. DepEd Undersecretary 2014. She noted that teenage tion system to help ensure Aviation Administration tronics Company Ltd. issued In December last year, Alberto Muyot said the agen- pregnancy in the country is young girls and boys make (FAA) and the Pipeline and a recall order for all Galaxy major airlines also prohib- cy has a total of 179 learning on the rise, with one in every responsible choices based Hazardous Materials Safety Note 7 devices. ited passengers from bring- competencies for reproduc- 10 women of child-bearing on accurate information,” he Administration (PHMSA) He stressed in a memo- ing hoverboards and other tive health education in the age a teenager and 24 babies said. jointly issued an emergency randum that CAAP strongly similar self-balancing cart on K-12 curriculum. born every hour from teen- Without adequate infor- order banning all Samsung encourage all operators to board their aircraft. These learning compe- age mothers. mation, he said teenagers are Galaxy Note 7 smartphone advise passengers not to The airlines said hover- tencies are currently under- “The youth are faced left vulnerable to coercion, devices from air transporta- turn on or charge these de- boards run on high-powered going a review process by the with critical decisions involv- sexually transmitted infec- tion in the . vices while inside the airport lithium-ion batteries, which Bureau of Curriculum Devel- ing sexual and reproductive tions and unintended preg- Any person failing to premises and on board the have been widely reported to opment to make it attuned to health that could have a nancies,” the senator added. comply with the Emergency aircraft. have a tendency to overheat present times. major impact on their lives,” “We all agree that having Order is subject to civil pen- He said the CAAP or spontaneously ignite. Aquino encouraged he said. sex education in schools is alties of up to $179,933 for memorandum was issued in They explained the other groups to help the Aquino said a study by important,” said Sen. Bam each violation of the Hazard- the wake of the official an- devices posed a fire hazard DepEd by contributing the United Nations Popula- during the hearing of the ous Materials Regulations. A nouncement by Samsung to risk and were deemed unsafe ideas that can improve the tion Fund (UNFPA) also Committee on Education on person violating this Order recall and voluntarily replace for transport especially in an agency’s reproductive health showed that majority of the status of the implemen- may also be subject to crimi- all Galaxy Note 7 devices aircraft’s pressurized cabin education initiative. adolescents still lack the tation of reproductive health nal prosecution, which may already sold to the public fol- and cargo stowage spaces. He filed Senate Resolu- knowledge to make respon- education in schools. result in fines under title 18, lowing reported incidents of tion No. 169 amid the alarm- sible decisions. A4 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 ph news

FAS’ FAST GUIDE ... FROM PAGE A1

Candidate running Target issues impacting Status On Immigration Trump or Clinton Why vote for candidate for Fil-Ams

Magdalena de Public school teacher for 23 Garbage dumping, escalating We need to design a system Clinton with reservation There’s a lot of respect for Guzman for District years crime rate, affordable housing where documented and because the world is school teachers despite 11 Supervisor, San undocumented are treated changing fast and it’s very bashing from media and Francisco with human respect unpredictable groups that want to make public schools private Check out: votemagdalena.com

Juslyn Manalo for Daly City Personnel Board Cuts (to fire engine) crucial I do not agree with Trump’s Clinton because we cannot I have experience and Daly City Council Commissioner, SamTrans to public safety, affordable anti-immigrant rhetoric have Trump as a president qualifications working on local Citizen Advisory Committee housing, safeguarding Seton because many of our roots with an anti-immigrant policy, with families, seniors Chair Hospital because many have been established position and individuals on the ground seniors are patients and because of the policy that and creating programs to healthcare professionals are gave our families the chance address the needs of the employees to build better lives and community create opportunities for future generation Marjan Philhour for Small business owner Affordable housing, No reply to query Clinton and I’m excited to There has never been a District 1 Supervisor, transportation infrastructure, finally see a woman in the Filipino-American in the SF Richmond smash and grab vandalism White House Board of Supervisors Check out: Votemarjan.com/ endorsements Vince Songcayawon In office since 2004 Common Core State No comment No comment As a naturalized immigrant for Governing Standards in myself, I understand the needs Board of Trustees, Arts and Math, decent pay for of Fil-Am students in the Evergreen School District employees to afford District District, San Jose living in San Jose Mae Torlakson for Ambrose Recreation and Park Keeping guns out of If elected, I intend to Wholeheartedly oppose First Filipina elected to state State Assembly District Board member, 3rd dangerous criminals’ hands, propose legislation allowing Trump’s anti-immigrant or local government office in term since 2006, Pittsburg better education programs for all residents to access rhetoric Contra Costa County and I English learners, emphasis on healthcare, attend quality have fought for our community STEM, more dual immersions schools and thrive in our during my time in elected in K-12 schools, career tech community. office and will continue to do education with learning so if elected standards connected to real- If Trump wins, I’ll vote against world jobs legislation that dismantles benefits to undocumenteds in California. Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star A5 sports Win or lose, Pacquiao home by Nov. 7 news HOLLYWOOD—Regard- lative duties the following day. less of the outcome of his title “It’s important for me to fight with Jessie Vargas on Nov. be there because we will do our 49ers lead then falter, 5, Manny Pacquiao will fly back budget deliberations,” Pacquiao to the Philippines the day after. said. Deviating from his usual During the election cam- lose to Buccaneers, 43-17 schedule of returning to Los paign, Pacquiao, a frequent Text and photos by R. Mascardo Angeles by land first and taking absentee in Congress, promised just want to see their team Even with the 49ers firmly in the flight out of the US, Pac- to give priority to his legislative Manny Pacquiao (left) and Jessie quiao will head to Manila from duties over boxing. Vargas (right) win again after six consecutive the game midway through the Las Vegas on Sunday (Monday After beating Timothy (photo: www.boxingscene.com) losses. fourth quarter. in Manila). Bradley Jr. by unanimous Never the less the quar- Many fans queried before “I need to return home at decision last April, Pacquiao The fight against Vargas terback was greeted with a the game kept their critiques once,” said Pacquiao, who’ll be announced his retirement. was also scheduled based on the smattering of cheers when to football performance, hotly missing a Senate session for the Thus far, he has lived up closing of the Senate sessions he walked onto the field for first time when the upper cham- to that promise, training early on Oct. 19 and its resumption. pre-game warm ups before ber reconvenes Nov. 7. morning and at night to be able (Roy Luarca / inquirer.net) kick-off. Pacquiao will resume legis- to fulfill his Senate duties. After leading the 49ers SANTA CLARA -- Thou- to a promising 14-0 first-quar- sands of empty seats at Levi’s ter lead, Kaepernick and the Stadium underscored San Fran- 49ers offense sputtered. He Fernandes to defend ONE title against McLaren in Manila cisco’s downturn that continued completed just 16 of 34 passes Championship against Reece Meanwhile, the Australian Sunday when the Tampa Bay for 134 yards with one touch- McLaren at ONE Championship: McLaren (9-3) had strung four Buccaneers defeated the 49ers, down and one interception. Age of Domination on December 2 straight wins to put him in conten- 43-17. at . tion for the title fight. debating over something else Kaepernick’s season-long Loren Mack, ONE Champion- Brandon Vera is set to defend Kaepernick’s scrambling -- than Clinton and Trump. kneeling during ship vice president for public rela- his ONE Heavyweight Champion- he led the team the national tions, confirmed the development ship in the main event against with 84 rushing anthem to pro- as the Manila card continues to get Japanese challenger Hideki Sekine. yards on nine more stacked. Five other Filipino fighters test oppression carries -- and The Brazilian Fernandes from Team Lakay will hit the cage against minori- Bibiano Fernandes occasional (19-3) has kept the title since win- in the Manila fightcard, led by ties has become (photo: www.bjjee.com) flashes of ac- ning it in Manila back in 2013. His former ONE Featherweight Cham- less a statement pion Honorio Banario and Geje curate down- – Bibiano Fernandes latest defense came at the expense than a mood. of Filipino Kevin Belingon last Eustaquio. (Randolph Leongson / field passing makes his return to the country as These days fans he defends his ONE Bantamweight January. inquirer.net) weren’t enough. FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 (415)593-5955 HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, INC. 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Please Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] or call 415-225-6868 WANTED Accounting Staff Please send resume to: [email protected] or Fax 1-800-446-6191 A6 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 opinion PerryScope As I See It Digong was the ‘Manchurian Candidate’ all along! SoCal- based Fil-Am non-profit PERRY DIAZ Kingmaker bares community projects But if there was one person who is credited ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO In Philippine for making Digong run for president, it was mend to the group which group of kids will be elections, presidential former president Fidel V. Ramos, or FVR as he’s While offices and served in 2016: all for the sake of charity and the candidates are labeled ac- often called. While Duterte acknowledged that it other organizations spirit of the season! cording to their perceived was FVR who encouraged him to run, rumor has are already prepar- We need to understand that the joy of giving political persuasion or it that on one of his trips to see Digong in Davao, ing for their end of the should be the prevailing spirit this time of the ideological beliefs. How- FVR brought with him a huge bag, which he year Christmas parties, year. While others say it is the most expensive ever, political persuasion handed to Digong. Apparently, whatever was in there’s a non-profit time of the year, with all the gifts under the tree doesn’t really matter the bag, it convinced him to run. As the old adage organization based in not only for our family members but for rela- in Philippine politics says, “Put your money where your mouth is,” FVR Southern California busy tives, godchildren (inaanak) and friends (BFFs), because Filipino politi- might have done just that. But of course, it was preparing instead, for there are ways to celebrate the frugal way… and cians change their political affiliations to suit just tsismis. its end of the year giving still retain the Christmas spirit. Instead of buying their personal objectives. There are the “Am- But on a more serious tone, FVR criticized back to the community projects. expensive gifts, for example, buy things that are boys” (American Boys). There are the “balimb- Digong in an article he wrote for the Manila Bul- Giving back to the community is what The cheap and useful the whole year round. After all, ings” (political turncoats or opportunists). And letin titled, “Du30’s first 100 days – Team Philip- Global Urdanetanians (TGU) are known for. it is the giving that matters… and receiving is just there are the “Manchurian Candidates” (secretly pines losing.” He said: “In the overall assessment The non-profit, 501c3 organization, is based in a gesture of thankfulness. And, instead of lavish aligned with China). by this writer, we find our Team Philippines los- Southern California but its reach is global with parties or get-togethers, do potlucks and serve The Philippines, which is considered pro- ing in the first 100 days of Du30’s administration memberships all over the world who claim their inexpensive low-carb food. American in every meaning of the word, has – and losing badly. This is a huge disappoint- roots from Urdaneta, a city in Pangasinan. Last year’s HKB Chairman Norma Torres always been allied with the U.S., politically, ment and let-down to many of us.” TGU’s end-of-the-year projects are: selec- Agulo said, “The spirit of Christmas is about economically, militarily, and culturally (there are On U.S.-Philippine relations, FVR – who was tion of the next set of college scholars for 2017; showing our gratitude for what God did for us. five million Filipinos living in the U.S.) since she a West Point graduate – said: “Equally discom- medical-dental mission in a needy barangay; and We remember His birth by giving each other gifts, gained independence from Mother America in bobulating are the mix of ‘off-and-on’ statements Pamaskong Handog 2016 bringing joy to indigent worshipping Him, and being especially conscious 1946. But “independence” from America hasn’t by P. Digong on Philippines-U.S. relations, par- children. of the poor and the less fortunate. In so many really been deeply rooted because of the inter- ticularly on security and economic matters.” He The scholarship grant for poor but deserv- ways Christmas is a wonderful time of the year dependence of the two countries on matters of also criticized Digong for berating U.S. President ing students going to college is a pet project of for most people. For what is joyous and won- foreign policy, economics, and national defense, Barack Obama, U.N. Secretary General Ban Ki- incumbent TGU president Yvonne San Juan- derful for some can be very sad and difficult for so much so that the Philippine government didn’t Moon, and terminating RP-U.S. military exercis- Sera, then the chairman of the Scholarship Board, others. At TGU land through the Help the Kids see the need for a strong navy and air force to es. “So what gives??” he asked. “Are we throwing when she was VP for Operations three years ago. Board (HKB), the spirit of Christmas is about defend her sovereignty and territorial integrity. away decades of military partnership, tactical The search for 2017 scholars started last sharing some of our blessings to the indigent With three defense agreements that exist proficiency, compatible weaponry, predictable month with TGU Urdaneta implementing the se- kids of our hometown, Urdaneta…” This year’s between the two countries – Mutual Defense logistics, and soldier-to-soldier camaraderie just lection process. They already received recommen- chairman is Julie Agoho who will be gracing the Treaty (MDT), Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA), like that?? On P. Du30’s say – so???” dations from the various principals of the public occasion in December. and Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement “America has lost!” and private high schools in Urdaneta. Among the Discussions for the first medical mission (EDCA) – the Philippines feels safe know- In a media interview upon his arrival in documentation requirements were certification to be sponsored by TGU started which may be ing that Uncle Sam would come to her defense Beijing last October 18, Duterte said, “The only from the barangay captain that the student comes held early next year. This will be coordinated by against foreign invaders, notably China. And this hope of the Philippines economically, I’ll be frank from an indigent family and certification from the TGU Urdaneta Chapter headed by its man- airtight fusion, which was sealed with the blood with you, is China.” He described his visit as the their principal that the candidate is in the top five ager Ramil San Juan with the TGU California at of Filipino and American soldiers who fought “defining moment” of his presidency. “Maybe percent of the graduating class. the helm duly assisted by San Juan-Sera’s high side by side during World II, has endured to this because I’m Chinese,” he said. The final phase of the selection process, i.e. school batch mates of 1973 (UCNHS ’73). day. Indeed, a Social Weather Stations (SWS) But what surprised the public was what the interview portion, will be held in February San Juan-Sera said, “It’s our commitment to survey taken recently showed that Filipinos trust Digong bluntly told Chinese and Philippine next year. San Juan-Sera with her husband Ron, the people, so we need to do it on a yearly basis”. America more than China. It’s a testament to the business people at a forum in the Great Hall of will fly from California to Urdaneta to head the The officers of TGU are: President – Yvonne strong ties between the two countries. the People in Beijing on October 20. “In this panel of interviewers. She will be joined by this San Juan-Sera; VP-Admin Menchu Madriaga; It is in this regard that pro-American candi- venue, your honors, in this venue, I announce my year’s chairman of the Scholarship Board Fe VP-Operations Lennie Echalas Rebudal; Sec- dates win in elections. To be perceived as anti- separation from the United States,” he said. He Gonzales Sepulveda. retary - Girly Nastor-Castillo; Treasurer - Ber- American would be a “kiss of death.” Take the declared that he had realigned with China, say- “My parents are very poor… I never thought nadette “Gigi” Hojilla DeVera; Auditor – Gus case of then Vice President Jejomar Binay who ing: “Both in military, not maybe social, but eco- I will be able to go to college,” Danny Marcella Castillo; PRO – Elpidio Estioko; Business Manag- was accused of being a “Manchurian Candidate,” nomics also. America has lost!” Nobody could Suan, one of the early scholars who is now on his ers - Cynthia Cortez, Simeon Calacsan, Jr. and which might have been a major factor in his have been happier than Chinese Vice Premier third year in college as a 4-year scholar of TGU, Lorenzo Suyat, Jr.; Chairman of the Scholarship defeat. Zhang Gaoli who was seated a few feet away from said. For Danny and countless millions of others Board – Fe Gonzales Sepulveda; Chairman of Extra-judicial killings Digong at the podium. in the Philippines belonging to the middle- or Handog Pamasko 2016 – Julie Agojo; Chairman Indeed, Duterte might have been the per- The new triumvirate low-income brackets, their best hope to go to of Fund Raising – Mario Mateo; and Adviser – fect “Manchurian Candidate.” The fact that he With $13.5 billion in deals to be signed college is through scholarships or grants. All Founding President Lino Caringal, Jr. belonged to a minor – hardly heard of -- politi- between China and the Philippines, Duterte combined, these awards make college more ac- The Board is composed of the following: cal party and whose ideological beliefs are in the couldn’t contain his exuberance. He told the au- cessible, affordable, and attainable for a greater Board Chairman – Elpidio Estioko; Members of fuzzy shades of gray, Duterte marketed himself as dience: “I’ve realigned myself with your ideologi- number of underprivileged youths. the Board - Gus Castillo, Fe Sepulveda, Mario a populist crime-fighter, which the people bought cal flow and maybe I will also go to Russia to talk Since 2013, TGU continues to offer schol- Mateo, Menchu Madriaga, Lennie Rebudal, hook, line, and sinker. to [President Vladimir] Putin and tell him that arships to poor but deserving students in their Bernadette DeVera, Ave Vida, Cris Ramirez, Fe Never mind that he had been suspected of al- there are three of us against the world - China, hometown of Urdaneta City, Pangasinan, accord- Ranada, and Yvonne San Juan-Sera. legedly masterminding the extra-judicial killings Philippines and Russia. It’s the only way.” Is this ing to TGU Founding President Lino Caringal, TGU Urdaneta Officers and Coordinators: by the notorious “Davao Death Squad” or DDS – the “new triumvirate” that would create a new Jr., now the President of Pangasinan Brother- Manager – Ramil San Juan; Asst. Manager – which was oftentimes referred to as the “Duterte world order… or should I say, disorder? hood – U.S.A., also a 501c3 non-profit organiza- Vicky Gravela; Secretary – Wreigh Paris; Asst. Death Squad.” Never mind that he was once Whatever came to his mind to include his tion based in Southern California, an umbrella Secretary – Elma Macalanda; Treasurer – Maria sympathetic to – or part of -- the New People’s Third-World country in the company of China organization of the some 25 cities and towns Fabiola Ambrosio; Auditor –Fe Ranada; Coor- Army (NPA). Never mind that he had admittedly and Russia against the world, reminds me of in Pangasinan based in California. By the way, dinators – Fercima Sumera, Lourdes Quimson killed a convicted felon for raping and murdering someone who once said, “It’s like shooting a loose together with TGU, PB-U.S.A. co-sponsored their Reyes, Amelia Okol; Ambassador – Dr. Belinda an Australian missionary. cannon. There is lot of noise, but no substance – first-ever scholar, Marcelino Ordanza, Jr. who Grace San Juan; Special Envoy (Medical and He skillfully – and cleverly -- walked a politi- and worst of all, no voice.” graduated from BSRN from the University of Dental Mission) Class 73 – Maj. Gen. Jess cal tightrope, avoiding slipping to the right or left, Indeed, Digong has been trying very hard to Pangasinan, and now gainfully employed as an Fajardo, Gen. Jess Cardona, and Engr. Elpidio which if he did might have ended his campaign. amplify his dissatisfaction against the U.S. But RN at the Urdaneta Provincial Hospital. Angeles, Jr. He was a Don Quixote riding a motorcycle and the U.S. is not convinced that Digong has the The next project is the Pamaskong Handog Again, kudos to the officers and members carrying an assault rifle. And he threatened to courage to cut loose from Uncle Sam’s protective 2016. Bringing joy this Christmas knows no of TGU, especially the officers and coordinators ride a ski jet to the Scarborough Shoal and plant embrace. What is Digong going to do when the boundaries. TGU’s HKB Pamaskong Handog is of TGU Urdaneta, for implementing the three the Philippine flag. People could hear “Digong, Red Dragon starts reclaiming the Scarborough now on its fourth year. The board pledged that projects. I salute you for being there and mak- Digong, Digong…” like tinnitus ringing in their Shoal? What is he going to do when China tows the joy of giving will shine for as long as there ing a difference in people’s lives. (For feedbacks, ears. And they could hardly wait to see the away the old and rusty BRP Sierra Madre that has are kids needing their assistance, so this will be comments… please email the author at estiokoel- 100,000 dead bodies that he promised to dump served as the Philippines’ outpost to protect the an annual activity of the global organization. The [email protected]). into the Manila Bay to fatten the fishes. TO PAGE A7 Department of Social Welfare will again recom-

tion, pointed out that some good policies are in place and can be fully implemented. Duterte’s ban and sin “National law, ordinances and policies ban smoking in centers of youth activity, restau- PHILIP S. CHUA, vascular, pulmonary, and other tobacco-caused The Opinions expressed by our writers and illnesses, including those afflicting millions of rants, public vehicles and terminals, food and contributors do not in any way reflect the MD, FACS, FPCS infants and children. And most unfortunately, beverage preparation areas, other public spaces opinion of the management of Fortune News (RA9211), and in government premises (CSC Media Inc. President Rodrigo some of the victims (who do not even smoke) Roa Duterte’s war on killed by second-hand smoke. That’s the kind of Memorandum Circular 17), but these are not Fortune News Media Inc. poison tobacco is. And the scary statistics do not well-enforced. Given the President’s credentials, Publisher illegal drugs, criminality (including, I hope, the even include the pain, suffering, and economic we are assured that he can cause full implemen- Harvey Barkin thieves and plunderers toll on the patients and their families, and soci- tation of these laws as he has done in Davao,” Editor-in-Chief who walk in the Halls of ety in general. said Atty. Irene Reyes, Managing Director of Edwina Aniag Congress), and poverty, Health Justice of the Philippines, an HealthJustice. Vice President for Marketing and Operations are all nation-saving aggressive advocacy agency which I tremen- “Last May, Duterte made the same promise Gary De Guzman measures that are, per se, making wonderful dously admire, is performing a great service to on the show “Gikan sa Masa.” He explained Vice President for Community Relations history. If properly and justly accomplished, the nation. that the purpose of the ban is “to protect public Last week, it came out with a release health”, adding that “If you have to protect the Anchet Manosca Duterte’s War will be his glorified and lasting Creative and Production Manager legacy which will even improve his unprec- (a major part of is pasted below) which I would public, you must be brutal about it….” edented 91 percent public approval rating today like to disseminate as widely as possible, to I have been writing articles against Atty. Crispin Lozano among the generations of Filipinos to come. make other countries, even the United States, smoking since I was a student at the Arellano Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis Public High School. One of my latest (the first Ben Lou / Perry Diaz And history then would show the world how drool in envy of our beloved Philippines: Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko great a nation the Philippines was, how great a “Various civil society and non-government one in 2004) published in Cebu Daily News a Columnists people the Filipinos were, and become the envy groups representing health professionals and couple of years ago was entitled “Smoking is slow-suicide,” from which I have posted some Macon Ramos-Araneta of the global community. workers, environment and clean air advocates, Corina Oliquino The Sin Tax on cigarettes and Presi- tobacco victims, lawyers, youth, and women segments below: Daniel Llanto dent Duterte’s promised nationwide ban on eagerly anticipate President Rodrigo Duterte’s “Smoking kills. It is that plain Anna Ven Sobrevinas smoking, which he reaffirmed just a week ago, next step following his assurance last Monday and simple. There is no more doubt today that Correspondents September 26th, fully endorsed and supported that he would fulfill his promise to implement a tobacco (cigarette smoking) is the predominant Renato Amon by Health Justice Philippines advocacy group, nationwide smoking ban. cause of lung cancer, besides other malignan- Senior Account Executive and dozens of other organizations, including “In a speech delivered last September 26 cies and cardiovascular diseases that maim, kill Ann Gauna the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 during the signing of the implementing rules men and women and hurt our society, especially Marketing Associate humanitarian and anti-graft Foundation in the and regulations of the Centenarians Act of 2016 our children. In the United States alone, almost half a million die each year from smoking- FilAm Star is published weekly United States (www.FUN8888.com), of which and the awarding of child-friendly local gov- by Fortune News Media Inc. yours truly is the chairman, will add to the ernment units, Duterte announced that in the related illnesses. In the Philippines, 250 die www.filamstar.com President’s ambitious encompassing vision and entire Philippines, he “will not allow smoking every day from smoking-related diseases. These Headquarters: dream of an enviable and inspiring model na- because you pass cancer to the people who do are preventable deaths! Demographic studies 1028 Mission St., 2/F, tion in the world…and a healthier one at that, a not want it.” have shown that smokers are about 10 times San Francisco, CA 94103; nation every Filipino could be more proud of. “HealthJustice Philippines, a public health more prone to die premature deaths than non- Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 Yes, a smoke-free society will have a policy think tank and advocacy group with smokers. Email: [email protected] significantly much lower incidence of cardio- expertise in tobacco control and health promo- TO PAGE A7 Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star A7 DUTERTE FLIP-FLOPS Goldberg attended the commissioning of the IMPORTED PACKAGES the new Customs Administrative Order (CAO) ... FROM PAGE A1 newly delivered C-130 cargo plane at the Phil- ... FROM PAGE A1 No. 02-2016 aims to make the Bureau of Customs ippine Air Force headquarters at Villamor Air to be “responsive to the growing liberalization to the best interest of my country that we main- Base in Pasay City. The Philippines acquired the the Philippine Postal Office to send and receive and facilitation thrust in consonance with the dif- tain that relationship. Why? Because there are aircraft from the U.S. through the latter’s Excess packages overseas. ferent applicable international trade agreements.” many Filipinos in the United States, Americans Defense Articles (EDA) program. “It is a welcome development especially for According to PhilPost the new law “protects of Filipino ancestry. Why? Because the people of He pointed to the cargo plane as evidence this new administration to effectively administer and enhances government revenue, institutes fair my country [are] not ready to accept.” that Philippine-U.S. relations remain intact. changes by implementing the new provisions and transparent customs and tariff management He said severing ties with the U.S. “is not “There are 3.5 million Filipino-Americans of the law which will benefit our postal clients that will efficiently facilitate international trade feasible” because “Filipinos in the U.S. will kill and there are a couple of hundred thousand abroad who send personal items as gift to their and commerce.” me. That is why I am not going there, not in this Americans who live in the Philippines,” love ones in the Philippines”, Assistant Postmas- In an APEC study cited by the PhilPost, “it is lifetime,” Duterte added. Goldberg said, explaining his country’s “unbreak- ter General Luis Carlos said. important that trade is secure and that customs Russel, the U.S. assistant secretary of state able” bond with the Philippines. According to GMA News, Customs Adminis- rules and procedures are kept to a minimum to for East Asian and Pacific Affairs, said Monday He said that while certain developments trative Order (CAO) No. 02-2016 was signed last reduce trade transaction costs.” America remains committed to its relations with appear to have undermined U.S.-Philippine September 28 by BOC Commissioner Nicanor Also, the agency noted that only those per- the Philippines notwithstanding fiery rhetoric relations, there are factors that have kept such Faeldon and Department of Finance Secretary sonal packages or parcels coming from abroad against his country. relationship from deteriorating. Carlos Dominguez III, the Finance Department that goes through PhilPost and assessed with However, Russel told reporters that while the Duterte issued the controversial statement confirmed. customs duties and taxes valued at P10,000 and U.S. supports Manila’s “effort against the scourge on at least two occasions during his state visit to Furthermore, the adjustment on the de below are tax-exempted. of drugs,” Washington was concerned over the Beijing last week. He had also bared inten- minimis value is an upgrade from the 59-year old In another story by The Philippine Daily In- loss of lives, which is “not a positive trend” and is tion to pivot to China and Russia. Being a sover- Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines which quirer, the BOC issued specific exclusions in the “bad for business as well.” eign state, he said the Philippines should make imposed a P10-peso threshold. new CAO like Tobacco goods, wines and spirits Ambassador Goldberg said Russel and U.S. its own decisions on what it believes is in the best Finance Secretary Antoinette Tionko noted (even if they fall within the de minimis value, they Assistant Secretary of Defense for Asian and interest of the country. that ‘de minimis’ packages or importations shall will still be subjected to a separate taxes as per Pacific Security Kelly Magsamen are in For this anti-U.S. stance, American compa- not be subjected to “non-intrusive examinations” the National Internal Revenue Code). Manila to seek clarification on Duterte’s previous nies and the local BPO industry with clientele of like X-rays or other devices on a random basis. Packages or goods found to violate or forfeit statements against the U.S. at least 80 percent American firms turned jittery. Under the administrative order, the de mini- the administrative order shall be disposed of in “We’re seeking exact clarification. We have Malacanang assured that no harm will come to mis value ““shall be adjusted by the Secretary of accordance with the Chapter 10, Title XI of the two U.S. officials seeking clarification,” Goldberg these companies. Finance every three years after the Customs Mod- Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) said. Trade Secretary Ramon Lopez said: “Yes of ernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) takes effect.” and other penal provisions. “We are trying to sort out exactly what that course, they will be protected. Not only them but Customs also noted that they will use the “This is good news for Filipinos, who can means in policy terms. What that means in terms all businesses. If we will not protect them, why Consumer Price Index published by the Philip- now fully enjoy their small purchases from other of ongoing relationship. This is a sovereign coun- are we still pursuing economic development? pine Statistics Authority (PSA) to reflect the cur- countries. I trust that everyone will strictly abide try, and the U.S. has treated the Philippines as That is part of development so we have to protect rent value of de minimis. by the provisions of the CAO,” Commissioner co-equal,” Goldberg said. those investments.” From a separate statement, BOC said that Faeldon said. Goldberg for his part said the ties between The U.S. is the top investor in the Philip- the U.S. and the Philippines “are really unbreak- pines’ BPO sector, which has generated about 1.2 OSMENA WARNS OF for our fishermen in our own backyard? That is able in many ways.” million jobs. ... FROM PAGE A1 ours to explore, the 200-km exclusive economic zone, ano pa question dun,” Osmena pointed out. BILL SEEKS ANTI- Money Laundering Act of 2001. he might want to learn the niceties of internation- On rumors that Robredo is working for ... FROM PAGE A1 “Though inclusion of additional crimes may al diplomacy. Why make an enemy for nothing”” the ouster of Duterte, the Vice-president said it appear to open wider gates towards the curtail- Osmena said. makes her sad that some people resort to spread- cations and information through the use of elec- ment of the right to privacy, I encourage our The former senator believes Duterte’s men ing false information. tronic, mechanical or other equipment or device distinguished colleagues to view the said amend- must help the President in the art of diplomacy. Georgina Hernandez, Robredo’s spokesper- or technology. ment rather as a vital tool in enhancing crime “Hindi pwedeng atras abante, atras abante. son, said the VP flew to Quito, Ecuador as head of The existing law, he said, prohibits and prevention and suppression,” Lacson said. It has been happening the whole time,” he said. the Philippine delegation for the U.N. Conference penalizes the secret interception of private “Further, the proceeds of judicial wiretap- “They have to think these things thoroughly, para on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development. conversations except in cases involving crimes of ping will definitely strengthen the evidence paglabas ng statement eksakto.” Robredo chairs the Housing and Urban Develop- treason, espionage, provoking war and disloyalty against apprehended criminals when they are He said a possible ouster of Duterte is real ment Coordinating Council. in case of war, piracy, mutiny in the high seas, brought before the bar of justice.” from the way he makes enemies abroad. “In “She had only a picture taken with him rebellion, conspiracy and proposal to commit re- Lacson said the Bill sought to require a court a bigger sense, the more enemies you make, (Ban)… They had small talk, it was a very infor- bellion, inciting to rebellion, sedition, conspiracy order before wiretapping could be allowed. the more chances of being ousted. All of your mal meeting,” Hernandez said. Robredo’s photo to commit sedition, inciting to sedition, kidnap- “I would like to describe this measure as (enemies) will get together one of these days,” he with Ban was posted on her official Facebook ping, violations of Commonwealth Act No. 616, comprehensive. However, mere mention of the said. account. punishing espionage and other offenses against word comprehensive will definitely raise eye- He believes that while an alliance with China Hernandez said the Vice-president remains national security. brows. Let me assure you, with the numerous will bring economic benefits to the Philippines, focused on her job in the housing sector and in He said this Bill seeks to expand the coverage pronouncements already made by the Supreme this should not come at the expense of relations helping Filipinos affected by Typhoon Lawin. of exemptions to include cases involving: coup Court, the right to privacy shall always be invio- with other countries. “We just want to focus on our job,” she said. d’état, conspiracy and proposal to commit coup lable,” Lacson said. Osmeña also believes Duterte weakened the Robredo has repeatedly expressed her sup- d’état, robbery in band as defined and penalized “Having said so, I beg the kind indulgence country’s position on the South China Sea dispute port for Duterte and his administration. by Articles 294, 295, 296, 299 and 302 of the of everybody in this hall and keep in mind that when he did not make a stronger assertion of the Duterte’s ally, Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano, Revised Penal Code, brigandage/highway rob- the respect for private lives of individuals still Philippines’ claim by saying he would be willing had accused the Liberal Party, which is headed bery, violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous remains as the overall context of the Expanded to dialogue with China. by Robredo, of attempting to oust Duterte using Drugs Act of 2002 and violations of the Anti- Anti-Wiretapping Act of 2016,” he added. “Tingin ngayon sa atin ng buong mundo, ang the issue of extra-judicial killings. Cayetano said hina ng tuhod ng mga Pilipino. Isang pitik lang an obvious beneficiary of Duterte’s ouster would DUTERTE’S BAN Call us to advertise lumuluhod na.” he said. be Robredo, who would take over as president if ... FROM PAGE A6 “Kapag nag-negotiate ka sa Scarborough Duterte is removed from office. 1-415-593-5955 Shoal, that weakens our position. Why negotiate “Tobacco use leads to four times as many excess deaths annually compared to all other drugs and alcohol abuse combined, ten times more than all automobile fatalities per year, twelve times more than deaths from AIDS, and much more than Comelec returns 1,000 VCMs to Smartmatic all the American military casualties (in all wars) in SAN PEDRO CITY—The Commission on Elections (Comelec) on Wednesday began returning more than 1,000 vote-counting machines (VCM) to its supplier this century put together…. Smoking tobacco is re- despite opposition from former Sen. Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. whose poll protest was based partly on allegations that the election results had been manipu- ally an act of slow suicide, taking in poison a little at lated with the use of VCMs. a time, until the toxicity maims and kills…. In an urgent manifestation and motion on Oct. 21, Marcos asked the Presidential Electoral Tribunal (PET) to “prohibit the poll body from releasing the subject “Society and the government have VCMs” after the Comelec informed Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno it plans to return the machines to Smartmatic-TIM. long subsidized with tax monies the production and The Marcos camp also asked the PET to determine whether these VCMs were used in the vice presidential race, which the former senator lost by about 260,000 distribution of tobacco, which is by far the coun- votes to Leni Robredo, the Liberal Party candidate. try’s most serious and deadly substance. Yes, our Fraudulent votes government and society are peddling drugs, the On June 29, Marcos filed his electoral protest and asked the PET to stop Robredo’s inauguration. He said votes that were counted for Robredo were fraudulent, most deadly one, tobacco. The one that makes lives contesting the results in 39,221 clustered precincts in 25 and five cities. miserable. The one that kills the bread winner or the He alleged that Smartmatic introduced a new hash code (or a new script/program) into the transparency server, which he said had triggered unauthorized mother in the family, victimizing the children and changes in the vote count. their future. The one that separates loved ones. The In August, the PET issued a precautionary protective order (PPO) directing the Comelec to preserve all election materials and paraphernalia pending the resolu- one that destroys hopes and dreams. tion of the proceedings. “I strongly feel that people who wish to Comelec Commissioner Christian Robert Lim had informed Sereno, who heads the PET, that the machines they planned to return “were not actually deployed smoke (or to jump off a clift or off a tall building to and/or used during said elections [and therefore were] not within the scope of the [PPO].” hurt or kill themselves) have the right to do it. That He said these machines had been put on standby as replacement VCMs for those that break down on election day. is their constitutional right, and while I am against Inspection and hand over tobacco as an individual and as a physician, I shall By Wednesday noon, the poll body had finished inspecting at the Comelec warehouse in Sta. Rosa, , about 500 of 1,356 VCMs it was to return to Smart- defend the right of people to smoke, since there is matic, according to Robredo’s lawyer, Bernadette Sardillo. She said the inspection and hand over will continue on Thursday if the process isn’t finished on Wednes- no law against it. The only exception to that right, day. or any other right under our constitution, is when The Marcos camp said in a statement it is “standing its ground” against the release of the VCMs without approval of the Supreme Court sitting as the PET. It did its exercise adversely affects or conflicts with, or not send an observer to the Comelec warehouse. curtails, the rights of others. Marcos’ lawyer, Jose Amor Amorado, in a text message to the Inquirer, said the PET has scheduled a deliberation on their motion on Nov. 8. “By that alone, “It is beyond my comprehension why Comelec should stay the release of the machines,” he said. We, The People, are tolerating majority of our Sardillo said about 40 SD (secure digital) cards retrieved from the machines held either intact or corrupted data. She said the memory cards had been set aside legislators supporting these merchants of a deadly and she had asked the Comelec to decrypt them to determine what they contained. (Maricar Cinco / inquirer.net) poison called tobacco, one substance that contin- ues to maim and kill our family and fellowmen in epidemic proportion. Could the overriding reason be the millions and millions of pesos the tobacco Lorenzana named head of Cabinet security cluster lobbyists are pouring into the pockets of our corrupt politicians, making the latter afraid to snuff out the President Rodrigo Duterte has designated Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana as head of Cabinet cluster on security, justice and peace. tobacco industry, and We, The People, on the other Mr. Duterte issued Executive Order No. 14 to amend a 2011 order which designated the Executive Secretary as head of the Cabinet clus- hand, simply don’t give a damn?” ter on security. The order was signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea on Oct. 14 but it was released only Wednesday. But things seem to be changing…and for The cluster revamp comes in the wake of the President’s multipronged goals of fighting drugs, protecting security and talking peace with the better. Please visit philipSchua.com Email: the communists and Moro rebels. [email protected] The executive secretary would slide down as a cluster member along with the secretaries of the Cabinet, interior, foreign affairs, justice and the advisers of national security and the peace process. PERRYSCOPE The President said appointing Lorenzana as head of the cluster would “ensure” government’s thrust to prevent lawless violence, and win ... FROM PAGE A6 the fight against crime, drugs and corruption. The security cluster covers issues on guarding the territory, attaining a just and lasting peace, ensuring the welfare of overseas work- Ayungin Reef from Chinese reclamation? What is ers, strengthening the rule of law, ensuring equal justice and protecting he going to do when China evicts the Filipino set- tlers on Pag-Asa Island in the Spratly archipelago? human rights. What is he going to do when China declares an Air Complaint hotline Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ) over the West President Duterte also signed Executive Order No. 6 designating Philippine Sea? What is he going to do when China Cabinet Secretary Leoncio Evasco and his Special Assistant, Bong Go, to declares a 200-mile exclusive economic zone (EEZ) take charge of a round the clock hotline for citizen’s complaint on govern- all around the islands, reefs, and rocks in the West ment red tape. Philippine Sea? What is he going to do when China declares the Recto Bank off limits to Philippine oil The order mandates all government agencies, state-owned companies and gas exploration? And what is he going to do and government financial institutions to coordinate with Go and Evasco when China claims the Benham Rise as her terri- regarding complaints coursed through the “8888 Citizens’ Complaint tory? Hotline.” In the final analysis, nobody had any inkling The President has encouraged citizens to send their complaints on that Digong was the “Manchurian Candidate” all lazy bureaucrats, fixers, and delays in their papers through text messages, along! And with all the hoopla that his pivot to China has created, the people have to look back at e-mail, website and social media on top of the 8888 hotline. his first 100 days in office – just like what FVR did He also promised to do away with long queues for government issued – and ask themselves: Do we want Digong to pursue documents to be processed and for complaints to be answered within 72 a China-centric foreign policy at the expense of a days. century of building mutual trust between the U.S. Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana Regular status updates are required until the issue has been settled and the Philippines? ([email protected]) (Photo: www.mindanews.com) with the complainant. (Gil Cabacungan / inquirer.net) A8 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 business & Chinese company banned by World tech news Bank bags PH infrastructure project A Chinese construction As it turns out, other CCCC allegations, particularly Sino- firm banned by the World Bank subsidiaries, like CCCC Dredging Hydro Corp. and China CAMC Itama po natin! and a dredging firm that Beijing Co. and China Harbour Engi- Engineering. reportedly used for reclama- neering Co. Ltd., were among But questions about the BEN LOU like it. Do things in moderation and feel tion activities in the disputed the companies that will under- integrity of Chinese companies good about giving a dollar than none at all. Spratly Islands were among the take other big-ticket infrastruc- that the Duterte administra- Q: I like donat- Here’s another case of extreme dona- companies that bagged big- ture projects in the country. tion welcomed with open arms ing to charity but tion blues. A couple called me and asked ticket infrastructure projects in Dredging in Cebu in Beijing last week have also the Philippines during the recent CCCC Dredging, the largest surfaced the past few days on how much should me what to do because they always feel state visit of President Duterte dredging company in the world, social media. I really donate in guilty about not donating. When it came to China. signed an investment project Flood control, island order for me not to to tax time, they found out they can only The contract of China with Mega Harbour Port for the bridges feel bad? declare so much in donations even if they Road and Bridge Corp. (CRBC) Cebu International and Bulk SinoHydro will partner A: I always say gave a lot more than they should. My ques- with the Bases Conversion and Terminal project. with Zonar Construct for the charity is a privilege tion to them is are you giving for the sake Development Authority (BCDA) But the Wall Street Journal, River, Marikina River and for people who can afford to do so. No one of giving or for the sake of a tax deduction? is part of the $15-billion invest- in November last year, reported Manggahan Floodway bridges is obligated to donate whether it be goods We have to take the reasons in the question ment projects signed during that CCCC Dredging delayed its and with One Whitebeach Land or money. How bad do you feel if you into account because when they found out Mr. Duterte’s visit to China last planned initial public offer- Development for the Ambal missed your credit card payment because they cannot deduct all of the donations, week. ing in in 2015 after Simuay subriver basin flood you gave the money to charity? Should it then they felt bad about giving. This is not BCDA and CRBC will questions were raised about its control project. not be as equally bad than if you have not the way people should feel about donations. develop the Bonifacio Global alleged involvement in the land- PowerChina, which owns been able to donate? That is why give when you can and not City-Ninoy Aquino International reclamation activities of China in SinoHydro, will build with In life, I always say that too much when you cannot. Airport segment of the Metro the disputed Spratly Islands. Zonarsystems link bridges for is always a bad thing. Even having too I am Ben Lou, President and CEO of Manila Bus Rapid Transit-Edsa The news report cited island provinces. project. information from intelligence International Rivers, an much money is bad too. It makes people Debt Aid Consulting. My company has A+ Since 2009, the World provider IHS Jane’s Defence organization that advocates sus- obsessed of finding ways not to lose what rating with the Better Business Bureau in it is they already have and an obsession of the US and Canada. This record speaks for getting more. Put all things in modera- itself. We are here to help. tion and I think you will be more gratified. We are the only Filipino Debt company Even your doctor would recommend such which is legal in the US and Canada. I have an approach. a new US program which will beat every- When you start feeling bad of not being one’s pricing. Also we protect you against able to do something like donate money, lawsuits, phone harassments and letters. it really is more of an obsession especially Call Debt Aid Consulting! if you cannot afford it. Think of yourself Reminder, debt companies using Ma- first because you cannot achieve donat- nila office call centers will soon be banned. Bank has debarred CRBC from Weekly that a CCCC Dredging tainable development to protect ing money if you do not have it to give. I It would be very hard to get back your pay- participating in all its funded ship appeared in the surveillance the world’s rivers, described would approach it much like your budget. ments from the Philippines. If testimonials or executed projects after an photos at one of the artificial SinoHydro as the “world’s domi- If you cannot afford to buy new shoes every are paid for, then it is fake. internal investigation found that islands being built by China. nant dam builder.” it colluded with several other lo- Subic-Clark railway SinoHydro, a hydropower month, then you buy a pair when you can Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at cal and international companies China Harbour Engineering engineering and construction tutulungan po namin kayo. afford it. Not drown yourself in debt be- on the bidding for the first phase Co. Ltd. will partner with BCDA company, is allegedly involved cause you do what you want when you feel Itama po natin ang mali! of the Philippine National Roads for the Subic-Clark railway in anomalous projects in African Improvement and Management project; the transportation and countries like Kenya, Uganda, Program (NRIMP 1). logistics infrastructure at San- Zimbabwe and Zambia. WB-sanctioned gley Point by Cavitex Holdings ‘Monument to corruption’ Best Collateral voted Best Place CRBC is a subsidiary of Chi- International Container Ter- Quoting Transparency na Communication Construction minal Services Inc.; the Davao International, International to work for two consecutive years Co. (CCCC) Ltd., which in 2011, coastline and port development Rivers described the Bakun Dam the World Bank also sanctioned project with Mega Harbour Port in Sarawak as a “monument NOVATO – With eight pawnshop locations in Northern California, Best Collateral has taken as a result of CRBC’s fraudulent and Development; and the Ma- to corruption.” It was built by an underappreciated and stereotyped industry and, through a great staff, good training and atten- practices. nila Harbour Center reclamation SinoHydro and the Malaysian tion to customer service, has altered public perceptions of the role it plays in society. A check with the World with R-II Builders Inc. government. The dam, which Bank procurement and projects Critics of governments that took five decades to build, dis- website showed that the debar- entered contracts with CCCC placed indigenous peoples. ment was extended to all firms and its subsidiaries often cited China CAMC Engineering, “directly or indirectly controlled their World Bank debarment which entered into a joint de- by CCCC” for all World Bank- and how it stemmed from a velopment project on renewable funded or executed road and shady deal in the Philippines. energy with Columbus Capitana, bridges projects, the multilateral Open source data showed has been accused of alleged agency said. that other companies that were questionable dealings with the The sanctions against part of China’s multi-billion governments of , Ne- CCCC, its subsidiaries and CRBC investment pledges to Mr. Du- pal, Bolivia and Zambia. (Nikko will remain until January 2017. terte are saddled by corruption Dizon / inquirer.net) Verizon warily staying with deal to buy Yahoo A Verizon executive over- Live technology conference in ment on what information or seeing the deal to buy Yahoo California. circumstances might cause said Wednesday the deal was Verizon to walk away moving ahead pending the from the deal inked outcome of an investigation in July. into an epic hack. Verizon said Verizon expected that earlier this month within 60 days it would have that the breach affect- the “outcome” of how the ing Yahoo customers Pictured left to right: Jerome Torres, Angie Marquez, Grace Nague and Jorge Abulencia massive breach at Yahoo will could have a “mate- affect, if at all, the $4.8 billion rial” effect on the “In a culture of high expectations, we pride ourselves in providing an environment where the purchase of the struggling acquisition. staff is encouraged to reach for their highest potential,” said President Robert Verhoeff. “We also internet pioneer by the US The use of the have a culture where learning everyday is not just a buzzword – but something to be nurtured and telecom titan. term “material” by celebrated.” “We are not going to jump Verizon would sug- Employees say they work for a company that provides financial aid to community residents off a cliff blindly, but strategi- (Photo: www.stylemagazine.com) gest a substantive when others refuse, while maintaining respect and dignity for those struggling or out of work. cally the deal still does make change in the value of “I like the fact that we strive hard to help our customers survive another day of life. We are sense to us,” Verizon execu- “What we have to be Yahoo that was not previously one of only a few companies who offer this service. At the same time, there are no other places I’ve tive vice president of product careful about is what we don’t known, which could allow the worked where I’ve felt such determination from owners to provide us with the best benefits pos- and new business innovation know.” telecom group to lower its offer sible. That’s why I’ve been here 10 years. Everyone from top to bottom works as cohesive unit.” Marni Walden said at a WSJD Walden declined to com- or scrap the deal. (AFP) NANGANGAILANGAN NG PERA/SALAPI? Mabilis at Napakadaling Magpautang ng Pera sa Mga Ginto, Diamanteng Alahas, Mga Kamera, Elektronikong Gamit, 'Laptop', 'Tablet', Mga Gitara, Organo, Trompeta, Ukelele, Biyolin at Mga Kasangkapang Gamit sa Bahay at Trabaho.

* Mabilis na Makakuha ng Pera/Salapi Vallejo • San Rafael • Sacramento * 4 Buwan Upang Bayaran (Tubusin/tubuan) San Francisco Mission & SOMA * Hindi na Kailangang Gawin ang 'Credit Check' San Mateo • Marysville • Oakland * Tapat at Napakagandang Serbisyo sa Lahat * Mayroon Kaming Mga Pilipinong Naghahanap-buhay Dito na Handang Tumulong sa Lahat Visit BestCollateral.com for more information Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star A9 world news Trump, Clinton blitz battleground Florida Denuclearizing N. Korea a ‘lost

White House rivals Hillary college in southern Broward brushing off a question about cause,’ U.S. intel chief says Clinton and Donald Trump County near Fort Lauderdale, his recent threat to sue women Efforts to convince North secret mission to North Korea absence of any official contact staged dueling rallies in the Clinton urged Floridians to help who have accused him of un- Korea to give up its nuclear in November 2014 to rescue two between Washington and Pyong- crucial battleground of Florida propel her to the White House wanted sexual advances. program and “denuclearize” the American prisoners, oversees yang. on Tuesday, blitzing the diverse by getting out and voting “right He also took direct aim at Korean Peninsula are bound the 17 US intelligence agencies, In July, the North cut off its state as the clock ticks down now.” Obama, alleging based on the to fail, US Director of National including the CIA and National only remaining official channel of on the tumultuous presidential “Please join me. This is WikiLeaks release of Clinton Intelligence James Clapper said Security Agency. diplomatic communications with race. bigger than me. It’s bigger campaign emails that the US Tuesday. State Department spokes- the United States in retaliation With two weeks to go than any of us. It’s even bigger president knew about his secre- The United States is set to man John Kirby rebuffed Clap- for American sanctions against its before the November 8 election, than Donald Trump if you can tary of state’s controversial use deploy its THAAD missile defense per’s position, stressing that leader, Kim Jong-Un. polls showed Democrat Clinton believe it,” she told the cheering of a private email server at the system to South Korea as soon “nothing has changed about our North Korea has been hit by as possible, despite opposition policy with respect to the North. five sets of UN sanctions since -- who is vying to become crowd. time. from China, in an effort to protect “We want to continue to see it first tested a nuclear device in America’s first female presi- President Obama -- who “That means Obama is now against North Korea’s pursuit of a verifiable denuclearization of 2006. dent -- dominating nationally will campaign for Clinton on into the act,” Trump said in missile and nuclear technology. the peninsula,” he added. After Pyongyang carried out and looking for a resounding Friday in Florida -- has said he Sanford. “The notion of getting the “We want to see a return to its fourth nuclear test in January, mandate to govern the bitterly wants an overwhelming Demo- ‘Once-in-a-lifetime’ North Koreans to denuclearize is the six-party talk process, and the Security Council adopted the divided country. cratic victory in order to send The New York billionaire’s probably a lost cause. They are that means we need to see the toughest sanctions resolution Early voting began in the message that Americans standing in the polls has been not going to do that. That is their North show a willingness and an to date, targeting North Korea’s Florida on Monday, an urgent reject Trump’s divisive rhetoric. hit hard, particularly among ticket to survival,” Clapper said ability to return to that process trade in minerals and tightening reminder that candidates have Briefing reporters en route female voters, since the release during an event at the Council on which they haven’t done yet.” banking restrictions. little time left to make their to Fort Lauderdale, Clinton’s of a 2005 video on which he is Foreign Relations think-tank. The talks between the hermit The ongoing negotiations case in the country’s third most communications director Jen- heard boasting that his celebrity “And I got a good taste of state, China, , Russia, South on the new sanctions measure populous state, one with a wide nifer Palmieri also made clear allows him to grope women that when I was there, about Korea and the United States have are focused on closing loopholes mix of constituencies, including what a key piece of the election with impunity. how the world looks from their been frozen for years. and zeroing in on North Korea’s numerous retirees, Latinos and puzzle Florida represents for Since then, about a dozen vantage. And they are under Retired US diplomats met nuclear and ballistic missile Bible Belt whites. Democrats. women have come forward with siege, and they are very paranoid. senior Pyongyang officials in technology industry, according The Republican nominee, “We don’t plan to lose allegations of sexual miscon- So the notion of giving up their Malaysia over the weekend, the to Security Council diplomats. determined to ride out the Florida. It is the biggest prize,” duct. nuclear capability, whatever it is, latest in a series of unofficial talks (AFP) controversies hobbling his cam- she said. At a campaign event in is a nonstarter with them.” commonly referred to as Track 2 paign, made a pitch to Florida’s No one has forgotten that New Hampshire with Clinton Clapper, who went on a that are closely monitored in the elderly voters by assailing a the 2000 US presidential elec- on Monday, fiery liberal Senator sharp rise in health insur- tion turned on Florida, where a Elizabeth Warren served notice ance premiums expected next virtual tie was decided in favor on Trump that Democrats are U.N. refusal to recognize role year under President Barack of George W. Bush by the US not turning the page on his Obama’s signature health care Supreme Court. treatment of women. in Haiti cholera a ‘debacle’ reform. Obama ‘in the act’ “Nasty women are tough. “It’s just blowing up,” the Earlier, Trump acknowl- Nasty women are smart. And The United Nations’ refusal UN peacekeepers who were sent the trust fund set up for Haiti’s 70-year-old real estate mogul edged that the White House will nasty women vote,” Warren to recognize its legal responsib- to the Caribbean country after cholera victims, he said. said at a golf course he owns likely elude him if he doesn’t said, quoting a disparaging lity for Haiti’s cholera epidemic the 2010 earthquake. About 9,300 people have in Doral, Florida, vowing to win Florida and its 29 electoral remark the Republican made is a debacle that must be turned But the world body has died of cholera and 800,000 “repeal and replace” Obamacare votes. about Clinton at their last into a success story, a UN ex- refused to recognize that it is have been affected since the if elected. “I think that’s probably debate. pert said Tuesday. legally responsible and has outbreak in 2010. There are “You will have such great true,” he said in a telephone With his path to the White The world body must set ignored lawsuits filed by victims still 500 new cases of cholera health care at a tiny fraction of interview with Fox News. “I House narrowing, Trump has up a procedure to settle claims that have been rejected in US reported every week. the cost and it’s going to be so believe Florida is must-win. I railed against the “phony” polls by the families of thousands of courts after the United Nations UN Secretary-General Ban easy,” Trump promised a rally think we’re winning it, think and appealed to voters to turn victims killed by cholera, said invoked diplomatic immunity. Ki-moon, who has expressed in Sanford, Florida a few hours we’re winning it big.” out, calling it a “once-in-a-life- Philip Alston, UN special rap- Alston said the refusal to regret but has not formally later -- while warning a Clinton On the stump in Sanford, time opportunity” to reject the porteur for extreme poverty and acknowledge responsibility apologized for the disaster, is presidency would spell more of Trump pointed to what he political elite. human rights. was “morally unconscionable, due to unveil the aid package the same. called “record” lines of early Clinton, meanwhile, re- Alston addressed a General legally indefensible, politically for Haiti in the coming weeks. Poll averages show that voters in Florida -- many, he ceived an endorsement from the Assembly committee as the self-defeating and entirely un- “The organization’s legal the former secretary of state, said, sporting Trump hats and last in a long line of prominent United Nations was preparing necessary.” position does not prevent us who turns 69 on Wednesday, is buttons -- as a hopeful sign. Republicans who refuse to vote to roll out an aid package of The United Nations “must from taking effective steps for ahead in Florida by 3.1 per- “I think those are people for their party’s nominee, as the about $200 million to help the turn the Haiti debacle into a addressing the issue of cholera centage points, and nationally inclined to vote for us. Do you ex-secretary of state and retired families of cholera victims. success story,” he said. in Haiti,” said UN spokesman by 5.4 points, according to Real- agree?” he said. four-star general Colin Powell The United Nations has It must come up with a Stephane Dujarric. ClearPolitics. Trump also lashed out at announced he would vote for admitted that it has a moral procedure to resolve the claims He said the United Nations ‘Bigger than me’ Obamacare on and in the Democrat next month. responsibility to help Haiti deal and urge member states to was acting with compassion and Rallying supporters at a the phone-in with Fox News, (AFP) with the epidemic blamed on make generous contributions to showing solidarity. (AFP) A10 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star B1 Community Medi-Cal celebrates 50th SF Consulate hosts 65th anniversary of anniversary in San Francisco Russian refugees in Tubabao Island SAN FRANCISCO -- State ibly important resources for public to a lot of stress for me and my Senator Mark Leno (D-San Fran- hospitals and health systems so family.” cisco), California Dept. of Health that we can serve the entire com- “Covering one out of every and Western America and Philippine dances performed Care Services Director Jennifer munity,” said Susan Ehrlich, CEO, three Californians, Medi-Cal Bishop Feodosy of the Rus- by Parangal Dance Company Kent, and other state and lo- Zuckerberg San Francisco General deserves celebration as well as sian Orthodox Church, and and a traditional boyar dance cal leaders today joined the San Hospital. “It is a critically impor- investment and improvement, as a Elpidio Quirino and Gregory performed by Julia Zharova Francisco Health Plan, Health Plan tant resource for our patients to key pillar of the health system on Bologoff, whose families were and Honor Artist of Russia of San Mateo, and the consumer have access to more health care which we all rely,” said Anthony advocacy group Health Access to services and have better health as Wright, Executive Director of Vladimir Riaztanseff followed instrumental in bringing the celebrate the 50th anniversary of a result.” Health Access, the statewide health Russians into the Philippines. the remarks. The evening Medi-Cal. consumer advocacy coalition. “For Consul General Henry closed with community singing The community event marked the last half-century, this program Bensurto, Jr. welcomed the the five decades since California has served as a crucial lifeline for “There is nothing more Russian-American Com- established the Medi-Cal program millions of California children, magIn celebration of the 65th munity to the Kalayaan Hall, to provide comprehensive health parents, seniors and people with anniversary of the exodus to some of whom were refugees insurance to low-income families. disabilities. With recent expansions the United States of Russian at that time, as well as their In San Francisco and San Mateo under the Affordable Care Act, counties, amongst the wealthiest Medi-Cal is now a safety-net for all refugees from Tubabao Island family members, who came to regions of California, more than Californians, including for those in Easter Samar, and the 40th celebrate the milestones. In one quarter of a million low to who lose income or are between anniversary of the establish- his remarks, he said that the moderate-income people rely on jobs. On this 50thanniversary, ment of diplomatic relations celebration “echoes history Medi-Cal for health insurance. California needs to recommit to between the Philippines and by opening our doors once “As a long time champion of protect and promote Medi-Cal, to again to our Russian friends of Ikaw Lamang ang Iibigin ac- Medi-Cal, I understand its impor- invest and improve it, for the next who were sheltered by the companied by Nikolai Massen- tance in helping millions of Califor- half-century.” nians live longer, healthier lives,” “California county hu- Philippines in their time of kof who played the piece on the said Sen. Leno, chair of the Senate man services agencies are a vital need, with the hope that they bayan, a Russian accordion- Budget and Fiscal Review Commit- partner in successfully meeting the feel the same compassion and type instrument. tee. “It is truly one of California’s State Senator Mark Leno (left) and increased demand for high-quality hospitality that was extended Filipino and Russian food greatest triumphs.” John F. Grgurina Jr., (right) CEO of health care. The Human Services to them decades ago in Tu- were served at the reception “Medi-Cal has unquestion- the SF Health Plan. Agency’s local implementation of babao. “It will be a night of re- that followed. ably played a significant role in the landmark Affordable Care Act membrance, and a celebration The Exhibit features improving the overall health and nearly doubled our enrollment, re- of relations that continue to photographs and memorabilia well-being of Californians over San Francisco resident Elia sulting in one in four San Francisco the past 50 years,” said Jennifer Fernandez, a member of the San residents receiving Medi-Cal ben- deepen and endure through Kent, Director of DHCS. “While it Francisco Health Plan, told attend- efits,” said Trent Rhorer, Execu- Russia, San Francisco PCG the years.” is important to look back on the ees Medi-Cal coverage on multiple tive Director of the San Francisco held an exhibit launch of Ti- Consul General Petrov accomplishments of the last half occasions saved her from having Human Services Agency. “This empo Russo Tubabao Island, in commended the Filipino century, we are extremely excited to pay costly medical bills. In 2014 challenge is met by addressing the partnership with the Consul- people for being the only to help lead our program through and 2015, Fernandez was the vic- diverse needs and backgrounds of ate of the Russian Federation nation to open its doors to the many challenges and changes tim of severe automobile accidents our state’s most vulnerable popula- and the Congress of Russian the Russians, saying that this we’ll face in the coming years.” that left her critically injured. Dur- tions.” shared history between the “Medi-Cal provides quality ing the second accident, her body Medi-Cal is California’s health care services and peace of was struck by a car and thrown 9 Medicaid health care program. This Philippines and Russia was mind to the working people of the feet down the street. program pays for a variety of medi- a story of “human bravery, San Francisco Bay Area that are “Without coverage from cal services for children and adults courage, humanity and gen- struggling to make ends meet,” said Medi-Cal and the help of the San with limited income and resources. erosity.” John Grgurina Jr., CEO of the San Francisco Health Plan, it would Medi-Cal is supported by federal Ms. Sabelnik was Francisco Health Plan. “Without have been extremely difficult for and state taxes. profuse in her thanks to this program, and the count- me to pay the medical bills for President Lyndon Johnson the Philippines, saying that less dedicated people that serve these accidents,” said Fernandez signed the Medicare program into she and many other White them, over 250,000 people in San who is a lifetime San Francisco law on July 30, 1965. Medi-Cal Francisco and San Mateo counties resident and has three daughters was established on March 1, 1966, Russian families owe their would lose access to health insur- who were all covered by Medi-Cal. with the then-Office of Health Care Americans. lives to the decision of then from the times the Russians ance and the critical services that “Thanks to Medi-Cal there was a Services established within the In attendance were Rus- President Elpidio Quirino to lived in Tubabao during their Medi-Cal provides.” safety net there for me and it re- then-Health and Welfare Agency sian Consul General Sergei open its doors to the Russians, exile, as well as copies of “Medi-Cal provides incred- duced what would have amounted on July 7, 1966. Petrov and Madame Olga as well as the United States watercolor artist A. Karamzin’s Petrova, the Russian Deputy for ensuring the security of paintings of Tubabao. The Consul General Andrey Var- the Russians as they fled from Exhibit will be on display until lamov, Ms. Sabelnik, Arch- Shanghai to the Philippines. November 11 at the Kalayaan bishop Kyrillof San Francisco A cultural program of Hall. B2 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016

Chacha Estrada won best florist in FTD convention flowers trade show held in Las Vegas,

The Philippine DOT held the Philippine Tourism Presentation and Networking last Oct. 18 at the Hyatt Regency in San Francisco. Photo shows: Winners of PAL tickets: Terry Garma (left photo) of Grand Holidays and David Chien (right photo), GTT Regional Director with Purification Molintas, Philippine Tourism Director ,Marila Montemayor Revilla , PAL Country Manager USA, Dell Merano, PAL Area Manager,San Francisco along with Philippine Business Mission delegation.

The Dagupan City Association of Northern California (DCANC) fundraising trip to Thunder Valley Resort & Casino on October 22, 2016.

A Eucharistic celebration in honor of our two Saints- Lorenzo Ruiz and Pedro Calun- sod held at St. Elizabeth Seton in Rhonert Park on Oct 23, 2016.... In photo: Choirs in different churches in the Diocese of Santa Rosa.

Tindahan Pinoy Oriental Grand Opening in San Jose owned by Katrina Marie Tulabut and Elaine Crisostomo Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star B3 community PG&E named global leader on climate change Alice Bulos, “Grandmother of Filipino-

SAN FRANCISCO, rate climate action. The report PG&E leaders attended American Politics and Empowerment” Calif.—Pacific Gas and Electric establishes a baseline for the COP21 international climate Company (PG&E) today an- corporate climate action toward talks in Paris as part of Califor- By Dr. Fel Amistad nounced it has been named to a low-carbon economy and the nia’s delegation to support an the “Climate A List” by the CDP, opportunities this affords. The agreement to slow global warm- Whenever Francisco an international not-for-profit CDP will use future annual ing and promote the role gas a leading San Inter- that represents 827 investors reports to track companies’ and electric providers can play Mateo County national with $100 trillion in assets. progress on reducing emissions in deploying large-scale low- political leader Airport by PG&E was selected carbon technologies to or Filipino- helping from thousands of com- combat climate change. American them join panies that submitted PG&E also signed on leader men- and orga- annual climate disclo- to President Obama’s tions “Alice nize labor sures to the CDP for an American Business Act Pena Bulos” unions. independent assessment on Climate initiative, or Tita Alice, Alice also against the organiza- which rallied U.S. com- an extraordi- worked to tion’s scoring methodol- panies behind the need nary reaction organize a ogy. PG&E was among 9 for action on climate occurs. Many coalition percent of corporations change. people smile for Asian participating in CDP’s More than 58 and comment Pacific climate change program percent of the electricity that “she was women to to reach the Climate A that PG&E delivered to the true Mc- provide List, in recognition of customers in 2015 came Coy!” them with the company’s actions from greenhouse gas-free She was a forums for to reduce emissions and and renewable resourc- leader in her education address climate change. es—helping achieve a own right and and busi- “PG&E is honored carbon dioxide emissions way ahead ness. And to be recognized for our rate approximately two- of her time she also ongoing work to combat thirds cleaner than the when female established climate change and to national average. leaders were a support create a low-carbon “PG&E continues to merely heard group for economy. We have a be a leader in the electric but not seen, widows, long history of taking action on in line with the goals of the power sector in the fight against spoken about State Commissioner Dr Fel Amistad, Daly City Councilman Mike Guingona focusing both fronts, and our work can historic Paris Agreement. climate change. By working to but not taken (standing L-R) Seated: Tita Alice Bulos with San Mateo County Commissioner MC on self- be seen today as we reduce our “We congratulate the 193 accelerate the adoption of new seriously. Tita Enriquez at the Filipino American Democratic Club July 4th Picnic in San Bruno. esteem, Alice Bulos helped develop the Filipino American Empowerment Movement. own carbon footprint, help our A List companies that are lead- technologies, reducing the im- Alice was “our self-re- customers do the same, and ing the charge towards our low pact of its own operations and Grandmother spect, and drive the implementation of carbon future. Companies are engaging with community and of Filipino-American Politics” independence. political arena and our commu- innovative energy solutions,” key actors in enabling the global government partners, PG&E is who was a long time resident of In 1993, President Clinton nity’s heritage for decades. She said Melissa Lavinson, PG&E’s economy to achieve its new playing a leading role in driving San Mateo County and resided appointed Alice Bulos to the worked tirelessly to encourage chief sustainability officer and climate goals, and the leader- the critical transition to a low- in South San Francisco. She Federal Council on Aging where the participation of minorities vice president of federal affairs ship of this group points the carbon economy in California,” passed away this month, the she advised and assisted the in the political process and the and policy. way for others to take bold ac- said Mindy Lubber, president of month the U.S. Government President on matters relating to empowerment of Filipina and The Climate A List was tion and capitalize on the many Ceres, a nonprofit sustainability dedicated to honor Filipino- older Americans. Recognizing other Asian-American women released today in CDP’s report, opportunities that await,” said group, and a member of PG&E’s American accomplishments and her exemplary work, Clinton in their personal and profes- Out of the starting blocks: CDP chief executive officer Paul external Sustainability Advisory citizenry in these United States. again called upon Alice Bulos to sional lives. Tracking progress on corpo- Simpson. Council. Alice Bulos was one example of serve in another advisory role true heroism and diligence to As a long-time political -- this time as a delegate to the help her community overcome activist and adviser to President 1995 White House Conference political obstacles and chal- Clinton on the Federal Council on Aging. Villasis Town Fiesta: Legacy over Tradition lenges. on Aging, Alice Bulos gave voice Alice was the widow of This writer has known Tita to the concerns of millions of Donnie Bulos, a distinguished Alice. Since I was involved in disenfranchised and needy lawyer, and fellow political ac- “Fiesta” is deeply etched Americans. in Philippine culture as an local San Mateo County politics tivist. Her daughter Elizabeth is in 2000, it was inevitable I Together with her late married to Carlos Ramilo, and annual celebration of sorts husband Dony Bulos, she - a time for fellowship and would meet with the County they have three grandchildren: leader for the next millennium. founded the Filipino American Charity, Charles, and Clarke. of camaraderie accentuated When I first ran for political Grassroots Movement, a voter Alice Bulos will be missed with lots of food and fun. Like office as a San Mateo County registration drive designed to and her spirit will live on other countries in the world Board of Education Trustee, I involve Filipinos in the political through her extraordinary work that have sustained Spanish met with Tita Alice to discuss process. She served as Chair of to ensure empowerment of the influence, a Filipino fiesta is challenges and issues. She was the Filipino American Caucus Pinoy Americans in the U.S. celebrated during the town’s a great listener and hoped that and was outspoken on the As an individual, a respected patron saint’s feast day. And I could indeed succeed, even at rights and benefits due Filipino political and community leader, perhaps more ostentatious great odds against an incum- veterans who served during and a dearly valued friend of than other countries is the bent. Over time she respected World War II. Alice also served many elected officials such as effort and intensity of prepara- those who tried and made the as the Charter President of the Congresswoman Anna Es- tions for Filipino fiestas, not to effort to campaign and run Fil-Am Democratic Club in San hoo, Tom Lantos (deceased mention the attraction these a clean race. She respected Mateo County, the Regional congressman), and Governor draw from places far and wide, integrity, honesty, wisdom and Chair of the National Filipino Jerry Brown, Alice Bulos will be including town mates who experience. American Women’s Network, memorialized for her strength, have established roots in other Alice Bulos was honored and as a Board member of the wisdom, intelligence, and countries. Filipino values, by by the San Mateo Central Labor National Asian/Pacific Demo- humble demeanor. Photo with Mayor Nato S. Abrenica, from L –R: Rafael S. Soriano, the author cratic Council. and large, are centered on (Madelyn Soriano), and journalist, Virgil Maganes Council at its 22nd Annual Congresswoman Anna Es- social harmony; our definition COPE Benefit Dinner on July Community work to hoo (D-Atherton) honored this of happiness (and of ourselves) second. While it has all the Sison Abrenica put Villasis on 27, 2001. She attended these improve the lives of San Mateo distinguished woman “for all is being part of a large group, traditional characteristics of a the map when he added the events because the County County citizens was the founda- she has done and continued to tion of Alice Bulos’ hard work. Filipino fiesta, its most now iconic Talong Festival to Labor community recognized do to make the American dream She was a Board Member of the profound impression the fiesta program during his her hard work to empower and come true for others and to help San Mateo County Chapters is the several projects second term in office which ensure that voters came out to keep the promise of democracy of the American Heart As- and infrastructure that elevated interest in eggplant vote on election day, especially to everyone.” sociation, the American Lung the current admin- (aubergine) to new heights, among the Filipino-Americans. Many attribute their cur- Association and the American istration has erected including the introduction of The Filipino American commu- rent posts and success to Tita. nity comprises 25 percent of the Red Cross. She also served on Current Daly City Councilmen from fiesta fundraising eggplant recipes (101 ways to the Board of the Community campaigns throughout cook talong available on line). population of this rich county Mike Guingona and Ray Bue- but less than 10 percent of the Initiative on Multi-culturalism naventura are recent examples progressive terms. It should be noted that Villasis and the Northern California Di- Pass through the is the vegetable bowl of the registered voters actually vote. of exemplary Filipino-Amer- She tried to change this trend saster Preparedness Network. icans who were mentored by town of Villasis when . Alice Bulos was an effective heading up north and Preparations for the 2017 and today the County has seen Tita Alice. Other leaders have more younger registered voters advocate on behalf of a number said that they were inspired to you cannot ignore the Villasis Town Fiesta in January than ever. of other under-represented run for political office because well planned public (Saint Anthony Abbott Feast Alice Bulos played an groups. She led the effort to of the approval of “Tita” to run. market (Bagsakan) Day) are underway.The 2017 integral role in our nation’s secure rights for workers at San (Fel Amistad is a contributor) and the impressively fundraising campaign is for the maintained municipal landscaping of the gymnasium. Alice P. Bulos Memorial services: building painted in A guest to this year’s remark- Tess Perez Evangelista yellow and green – a able event, I expect nothing Oct 29-30(sat-sun)4pm-9pm viewing at Duggans, 2017 Mrs. Villasis – USA true representation of less in next year’s program Oct 30(sun)630pm vigil at Duggans, the agricultural base content and quality despite Oct 31(Mon) funeral St Augustine in SSF 1030am and enjoying special events that Villasis is. Then there’s compressed preparation time in the company of others. The the legislative building, the for next year’s event. I am fully fiesta is very much a validation expansive auditorium, and convinced of Mayor Nato’s Please help us honor Alice Bulos by helping her family defray Memorial Services, of this value and has become a the gymnasium that is in the creativity, high standards of Celebration of Life Services and Funeral. And any funds remaining, family will deter- tradition in Philippine society. process of being modernized execution and relentless pas- mine ways to continue her legacy. The Villasis Town Fiesta – just to name a few landmark sion for excellence. (Madelyn The family would appreciate donations payable to Thomasians U.S.A., c/o Alice carries the distinction of being results. But then…. it does not M. Soriano) Bulos, 2444 Liberty Court, South San Francisco CA 94080 a legacy first, and tradition end there … Mayor Nonato If you’d like to donate online, here’s the link www.bit.ly/gofundmealicebulos Pleasant Hill, Calif. native works with Navy’s Newest Surveillance Aircraft NORFOLK, Va. – A 2006 managing the aircraft’s radio The training also includes Fleet Replacement Squadron jobs range from training the strong fellowship among the Pittsburg Senior High School systems. the newest variant of the E-2D for the E-2 and C-2 communi- new aviators, maintaining air- crew, Navy officials explained. graduate and Pleasant Hill, Cali- “We get to see the big aircraft platform, the Advanced ties,” said Cmdr. Evan Morri- frames and engines, processing The crew is highly motivated, fornia native is serving in the picture with our jobs,” said Hawkeye, which serves as the son, Commanding Officer VAW paperwork, as well as handling and quickly adapt to changing U.S. Navy with Carrier Airborne Kramer. “We keep our guys safe most advanced surveillance air- 120. “It is an honor to see the and flying the aircraft. conditions. It is a busy life of Early Warning Squadron 120 with the early detection which is craft in the Navy. It features a quality of production set forth “Everyone has been re- specialized work, watches, and (VAW-120). a cool job to have.” state of the art radar with more by my sailors, and to witness ally welcoming and nice at this drills. Ensign Alyssa Kramer VAW 120’s primary mission capability and upgraded aircraft the development of the Navy’s squadron,” said Kramer. “I just “Serving in the Navy means works with the E-2D Advanced is to fly and train naval avia- systems that will improve sup- future Airborne Early Warning checked in and our command- being able to make sure my Hawkeye Squadron, also known tors, naval flight officers, and portability and increase readi- and Logistics leaders.” ing officer’s brief was fantastic. I friends and family back home as “Greyhawks”, operating out naval aircrewmen to safely and ness. With a crew of over 100 can’t wait to start working with are safe,” added Kramer. “I get of Norfolk, . effectively operate E-2 and C-2 “The Greyhawks of VAW- sailors, jobs are highly special- this command and talk with the to take part and not just sit back She is responsible for the aircraft, preparing them to join 120 work diligently to accom- ized and keep each part of the commanding officer more.” while the world happens. We get air early warning systems and the fleet. plish the mission of the sole Hawkeye running smoothly, While on deployment, chal- to make a change in the world.” according to Navy officials. The lenging living conditions build B4 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016

legal & law accident that you contend were aggravated (made worse) by the accident? Mayor Lee and Supervisor 3. What doctors and other health care providers Campos introduce legis- Common questions in a car accident deposition have you seen for treatment of your injuries? 4. What symptoms did you have at the scene of lation allowing develop- ATTY. CRISPIN Q. What are the common questions on how the accident? Did you get out of your car and walk CADAY LOZANO the accident happened? around at the scene? ment funds to benefit The typical car accident deposition questions 5. When did you first get medical care? What did local neighborhoods Q. What is a deposi- on how the accident happened include: you tell the doctor were your symptoms at that 1. Time, date, day of week, and location of ac- first visit? San Francisco, CA – Mayor Edwin M. Lee today announced tion? legislation co-sponsored with Supervisor David Campos that will A deposition is a cident. 6. What were your symptoms over time? Did your allow fees from residential developments of 25 units or less to question-and-answer ses- 2. Where were you coming from and where were symptoms any get better? Which ones and when? remain in the neighborhood where the new development is built. sion in which a witness you headed? 7. If there were any gaps in your medical care The fees will be allocated to purchase buildings where long-term tenants are at risk of being evicted due to market pressures and gives testimony under 3. What were the weather conditions? (periods of several weeks or more that you did then make those units permanently affordable housing. oath in response to ques- 4. What were the traffic conditions? not get any treatment) why did you not get treat- Currently, developers must meet its Inclusionary Affordable tions from an attorney. In a car accident case, 5. Were there any traffic control devices, such as ment? Housing requirement with a payment into the Affordable Hous- ing Fund or by providing units onsite. With this new legislation, the witness may be one of the drivers involved traffic lights, stop signs, other signs, lane mark- 8. What symptoms, if any, do you still have that developers can now decide to designate those fees into the general in the crash, a passenger, or an eyewitness to ings, etc. involved? you attribute to this accident? Affordable Housing Fund, or choose to put the money back into the accident. Depositions are a key part of the 6. Exactly what each driver did and when. Be 9. How much have you incurred in medical bills the local neighborhood through the City’s Small Sites Acquisi- tion Program. This new option can directly fund the purchasing discovery phase in a car accident case. Typically, prepared for specific questions about times and so far? and stabilization of apartments with long-term tenants at risk of car accident deposition questions cover three distances. For example: 10. Have you missed any time from work as a displacement in the neighborhood where the new development is subjects: your personal background, how the •How far was the other car from you when result of this accident? How much? When? What being built. “The long-term tenants in the neighborhoods that are see- accident happened, and your injuries and health you first saw it? amount of lost income are you claiming? ing the most development are the same ones we need to protect,” care treatment. •Where was the other car on the roadway at 11. Do you claim that you will miss work or lose said Mayor Ed Lee. “By allowing developers to invest the money Q. What are typical questions regarding your the time? income in the future as a result of this accident? back into the very neighborhoods they are building in allows us to ensure long-terms residents can continue to live where they have Personal Background ? •How fast were you going? If so, explain. community and raise their families.” The typical car accident deposition questions •How fast was the other car going? 12. How have your injuries affected your day-to- Since being launched in April 2014, the Small Sites Acquisi- on your personal background include: •Where on the roadway did the cars collide? day activities? tion Fund has stabilized 68 units of existing housing, typically with long-term residents at risk of displacement. It is a zero dis- 1. Name, address, telephone number, date of •What areas of the vehicles collided (i.e. •What are the things that you cannot do at all placement program, and no residents, regardless of income, will birth driver’s side fender, passenger side door)? as a result of your injuries? be displaced due to the building’s participation in the Small Sites 2. Your residences for the past 10 years or so. •Where did the cars come to rest? •What are the things that you cannot do as Program. Small Sites Program buildings will carry long-term af- Note: If you don’t know the answers to these (or well (or as often or for as long) as usual as a result fordability restrictions, increasing the City’s supply of affordable 3. Your educational background: housing and ensuring that rental units are affordable for future •schools and degrees, and any) questions, don’t guess. of your injuries? generations of San Francisco residents. •education and training you have received 7. Did you speak to the other driver after the ac- 13. How has your injury affected your personal “Working with the Mayor’s Office of Housing, the District 9 cident and, if so, what did each of you say? Did relationships, i.e. your marriage? Loss or reduc- office has fought and won almost 1,000 units of affordable hous- since you left school. ing. This legislation will allow even more affordable housing to be 4. Your family background: either of you admit responsibility for causing the tion of sex? Loss of enjoyment of other activities created in record speed. If the next generation of San Franciscans •marital status accident? (Remember; be careful what you say at together? Loss of vacations? Loss of other op- is going to be able to live here, we need to make sure that develop- the scene of a car accident.) portunities? ment benefits stay in the neighborhood where the development is •number of children, and being constructed,” said Supervisor David Campos. •living situation (who lives with you now and 8. What happened to your body inside the vehicle Note: This is not a legal advice. The Small Sites Program is funded through a combina- who lived with you at the time of your accident). when the collision occurred? Did any part of your Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active tion of Housing Trust Fund revenues, Prop A Housing Bond, body hit any part of the car? member of the State Bar of California, the and affordable housing fees paid by housing developers in San 5. Your health and medical background: Francisco. Program funding may be used to support a variety of •other injuries and health issues that existed 9. What happened to your car after it was hit? American Immigration Lawyers Association, San housing development activities, including property acquisition before this accident 10. What physical damage did each car have? Francisco Trial Lawyers Association, Consumers and minor rehabilitation. Was your car repaired? How much did the repairs Attorneys Association of , and the Tenant protection is a cornerstone of Mayor Lee’s seven •other injuries and health issues that you’ve point housing plan. Mayor Lee worked with State Senator Mark experienced since this accident cost? National Association of Consumers Bankruptcy Leno twice on state legislation that closed a loophole in the State •any chronic health problems, and 11. Who were the witnesses to the accident? Who Attorneys. He specializes in immigration law, Ellis Act that allows speculators to buy rent-controlled build- •doctors you have seen during the last 10 came to the accident scene within two hours after personal injury and taxes and bankruptcy law. ings in San Francisco and immediately evict long-term tenants. Both efforts failed in the state legislature. Mayor Lee and Board years (or so) and types of treatment you have re- the accident? He is also a CPA and a licensed Real Estate Bro- President David Chiu launched the Ellis Act Housing Preference ceived (especially treatment on any parts of your 12. Do you have any photos or diagrams that ker. For free consultation email or call (crispinlo- Program (EAHP) for tenants who are evicted under the State Ellis body that were injured in this accident). show the accident scene? (You may be asked to [email protected]/ 1-877-456-9266) Act. Displaced tenants are now given preference for the City’s affordable housing programs. 6. Employment background: draw a (non-scale) diagram of the accident scene •your last several jobs showing how the accident happened.) •your current job (duties, physical require- 13. Did you drink any alcohol during the 24 hours ments, hours, pay, supervisor, co-workers), and before the accident? •whether you have missed time from work 14. Did you fill out any report of the accident? USCIS Announces Final Rule Adjusting Immigra- during the last five years (or so)? If so, how much (Such as a police report) and why? Q. What are the common questions regard- tion Benefit Application and Petition Fees 7. Criminal background: ing your Injuries and Treatment? •have you ever been convicted of a crime? The typical car accident deposition questions WASHINGTON – U.S. Citizenship and Im- on many of the customers we serve. That’s why 8. Injury/civil claims background: related to your injuries and treatment include: migration Services today announced a final rule we decided against raising fees as recommended •have you ever filed any lawsuits? 1. What injuries do you claim were caused by this published in the Federal Register today adjusting after the fiscal year 2012 and 2014 fee reviews. •have you ever made any other kinds of accident? the fees required for most immigration applica- However, as an agency dependent upon users’ claims, such as workers compensation claims? 2. Did you have any health conditions before the tions and petitions. The new fees will be effective fees to operate, these changes are now necessary Dec. 23. to ensure we can continue to serve our customers USCIS is almost entirely funded by the fees effectively. We will also offer a reduced filing fee paid by applicants and petitioners for immigra- for certain naturalization applicants with limited tion benefits. The law requires USCIS to conduct means. ” fee reviews every two years to determine the Changes in the new fee schedule can be funding levels necessary to administer the na- found here. Highlights follow: tion’s immigration laws, process benefit requests A modest fee increase of $45, or 8 percent, and provide the infrastructure needed to support from $595 to $640 for Form N-400, Application those activities. for Naturalization. Fees will increase for the first time in six USCIS will offer a reduced filing fee of $320 years, by a weighted average of 21 percent for for naturalization applicants with family incomes most applications and petitions. This increase greater than 150 percent and not more than 200 is necessary to recover the full cost of services percent of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For provided by USCIS. These include the costs 2016, this means, for example, that a household associated with fraud detection and national of four with an income between $36,000 and security, customer service and case processing, $48,600 per year could pay the reduced fee. and providing services without charge to refugee Those eligible may apply for this option using the and asylum applicants and to other customers new Form I-942, Request for Reduced Fee. eligible for fee waivers or exemptions. The fee for Form N-600, Application for The final rule contains a table summarizing Certificate of Citizenship, and N-600K, Applica- current and new fees. The new fees are also listed tion for Citizenship and Issuance of Certificate on the Form G-1055, Fee Schedule, and website. Under Section 322, will increase from $550 or Applications and petitions postmarked or filed 600 to $1,170. on or after Dec. 23 must include the new fees or A new fee of $3,035 is required for Form USCIS will not be able to accept them. I-924A, Annual Certification of Regional Center. “This is our first fee increase since Novem- In preparing the final rule, USCIS consid- ber 2010, and we sincerely appreciate the valu- ered all 436 comments received during the 60- able public input we received as we prepared this day public comment period for the proposed rule final rule,” said USCIS Director León Rodríguez. published May 4. “We are mindful of the effect fee increases have Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star B5 health & Trump vows to scrap Obamacare as costs jump 25 percent lifestyle

Donald Trump vowed Tuesday to overturn It has allowed millions of uninsured people to President Barack Obama’s signature health insur- get health insurance, with no limits based on “pre- Some breastfeeding advice ance program after the government announced existing conditions.” The effect has been to reduce Americans will see costs jump an average of 25 the number of individuals across the country worth ditching: U.S. task force percent next year. without insurance to 8.6 percent from 16 percent “Obama- in 2010, HHS A review of scientific evidence on breast- However, the evidence review “showed that care has to be said. feeding out Tuesday found that some long-held avoiding pacifiers was not associated with any repealed and Despite advice is worth ditching, including that babies breastfeeding outcomes.” replaced and the sharp should avoid pacifiers and moms should breast- Since pacifiers are recommended as a way it has to be increase, the feed exclusively in the first days after birth. to help reduce the risk of sudden infant death replaced with HHS report Individual interventions to help expectant syndrome (SIDS), the leading killer of young something said most much less consumers and new moms breastfeed are still recommend- babies in the United States, “routine counsel- expensive for will see rate ed, but systematic or hospital-wide policies tend ing to avoid pacifiers may very well be ethically the people, hikes below to show little benefit, said the report by the US problematic,” the editorial added. otherwise this the average Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), an Another source of controversy is the advice country is in rate due to independent panel of experts. -- contained in step six of the WHO plan -- that even bigger premium The benefits of breastfeeding include pro- new mothers should not feed their babies for- trouble than caps and viding optimal nutrition and an immune system mula in their first days of life, but only provide everybody subsidies boost for babies, while helping mothers bond breast milk unless medically necessary. thought,” the for those with infants and speeding maternal weight loss Not only did this advice show no evidence Republican with lower after birth. of a benefit for breastfeeding practice, it can presidential incomes. “There is convincing evidence that breast- raise the risk of dehydration complications and candidate Trump feeding provides substantial health benefits for rehospitalization in babies in their first week of said in at his quickly children and adequate evidence that breast- life because mothers’ milk does not always come golf course lashed out feeding provides moderate health benefits for in right away, but can take four to seven days. in Doral, on Twitter women,” said the report in the Journal of the “Although these conditions are generally Florida. Donald Trump following American Medical Association (JAMA). mild and often resolve rapidly, their frequency “We’re (Photo: www.fullhdpictures.com) the report: “However, nearly half of all mothers in the is high; one to two percent of all US newborns going to “#Obamacare repeal and replace Obamacare.” premiums are about to SKYROCKET --- again. United States who initially breastfeed stop do- require readmission in the first week after birth, The Department of Health and Human Ser- Crooked H will only make it worse. We will repeal ing so by six months.” and the risk is approximately doubled for those vices said in a new report that the big increase in & replace!” The American Academy of Pediatrics urges exclusively breastfed,” said the JAMA editorial. insurance costs will be seen in the 38 states with Speaking in Florida, he also disputed the women to breastfeed for at least the first year if Finally, the long-held recommendations federally-managed health care exchanges. government’s figures, saying costs are rising much possible, while the World Health Organization that babies should be fed only breast milk for It is the largest jump in premiums for the higher. recommends up to two years of age or beyond. their first six months of life may need to be re- program, now entering its fourth year, and stoked “Obamacare is just blowing up and even the Just 22 percent of US babies are breastfed considered in light of recent research that shows the tense battle between Trump and Democratic White House, our president, announced 25 or 26 exclusively for six months, even though 80 per- some babies could benefit from small introduc- rival Hillary Clinton to replace Obama in the White percent (increases). That number is so wrong. cent were breastfed at some point in their young tions of highly allergenic foods like crushed or House. That is such a phony number. You’re talking about lives, suggesting that women face challenges in ground peanuts in their first four to six months. Since the start of the officially-named Afford- 60, 70, 80 percent in increases, not 25 percent,” continuing to breastfeed. The editorial urged medical professionals to Trump said, without explaining where he got his Although the process is natural, getting exercise their individual judgment and pursue numbers. started can be complicated, and babies often tailored approaches to helping women with Trump said the increase for Texas is 60 need help learning how to latch on and feed. their personal breastfeeding needs. percent, but the HHS report said premiums there For some mothers, the demands of return- “A single, uniform approach is ineffective at are expected to increase by an average of just 18 ing to work can make breastfeeding impossible. improving breastfeeding duration of the popula- percent. Others may be physically unable, or may prefer tion,” it said. (AFP) However, Arizona -- which has not voted for a Democrat for president since Bill Clinton in 1996 the convenience of formula. -- will see eye-popping 116 percent increases. Tailored approaches work best Arizona Senator John McCain, a Republican, To update its 2008 recommendations, said: “As I have long warned, Obamacare is an un- which also urged breastfeeding support for sustainable system that places an unfair financial women, the task force reviewed evidence from burden on families and small businesses.” dozens of studies, both new and old, on the ef- McCain noted that the state’s largest county fectiveness of various kinds of interventions on House Speaker Paul Ryan has only one insurance provider under Obamacare, whether women took up breastfeeding, and how (Photo: www.slate.com) when the health care exchanges were supposed to long they continued. create competition among providers. They found that the most effective interven- Republican House Speaker Paul Ryan com- tions were one-on-one assistance provided by able Care Act, Republicans have repeatedly tried to pared Obama’s healthcare program to ill-fated trained personnel, particularly when delivered overturn it. and now-discontinued Samsung phones that were at multiple points in time. catching fire. Hospital policies designed to encourage breastfeeding by implementing a series of pre- Answers to LAST WEEK’S Krosword determined steps did not show any significant effect on improving breastfeeding. Some of the policies in place even have the potential to be harmful, an accompanying edito- rial in JAMA by doctors Valerie Flaherman and Isabelle Von Kohorn warned. For instance, step nine of the World Health Organization’s Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative urges parents to avoid giving pacifiers to babies, on the basis that they could deter breastfeeding.

Sen. John McCain (Photo: www.crooksandliars.com) HOROSCOPE “The president recently compared Obama- http://www.starlightastrology.com Aries care to a Samsung Galaxy Note 7, and he’s right: (Mar. 21- April 20) this disastrous law is blowing up. But at least you Your best efforts will come through making changes Libra can return the phone,” Ryan said in a statement. in your home. You may find it difficult to discuss (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) (AFP) personal matters with family members. Your boss may Travel and family gatherings should be in order. Try be on the rampage and you certainly don’t want to be to channel your energy into professional endeavors. the one to take the brunt of a bad situation. Your desire Try not to be overly generous. Your personal partner for excitement and adventure may be expensive. may be less than willing to accommodate you this Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. week. Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. Taurus KrosWord (Apr. 21- may 21) Scorpio (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo) Acknowledge your lover’s needs. Focus your efforts (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) on details, and keep to yourself in order to finish your Try to be understanding. You may be experiencing PAHALANG work. Be very careful while in transit or while traveling emotional turmoil in regard to your mate. You are in foreign countries. Be prepared to step into the best to work at home, clearing up overdue projects. 1 Tatag limelight if you wish to promote your ambitions. Creative endeavors will give you somewhat of an 5 Aruga Your lucky day this week will be Monday. outlet. 10 Buti Your lucky day this week will be Friday. 11 Patalsikin Gemini (May 22-June 21) Sagittarius 12 Sambit ng nagitla You are best not to discuss your personal life (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 13 Ilalim with others. It would be in your best interest to stay You should be putting your cash into long-term 14 Inumin sa pagtitipon away from any intimate involvement with a client or investments like real estate. You will have the 15 Iawas coworker. Don’t let coworkers get wind of your ideas discipline to make changes you feel are necessary. or they might try to take credit for your hard work. Use Watch for empty promises that may give you false 16 Alumana discretion in your dealings and refrain from making hope. Your charm will be captivating. 18 Hudyat sa taguan verbal promises of any kind. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. 19 Panlapi Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. 20 Asarin Capricorn Cancer (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 25 Aktres na Fuentes (June 22-July 22) Avoid being overly opinionated or you will alienate 27 Usog Romance will develop through work related friends. Don’t push your luck with authority figures. Be 29 Wakas activities. Look into events that you might find careful when dealing with superiors. Enlist coworkers 30 Mercado o Misalucha interesting, and compromise by doing a few things that in order to get the job done on time. you both like to do. Travel, although enticing, will cost Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. 31 Tinanggal more than you expect. There are ways of making extra 32 Bituka cash if you put your mind to it. Aquarius 33 Walang balat Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 34 Ihanda ang baril Do not borrow or lend money or belongings to Leo friends or relatives if you wish to avoid any hassles. (July 23-Aug 22) You’re apt to make a move or experience changes at Changes in your home environment may cause home. Don’t settle for less than the best. You can make friction. Deception will play an important factor in new friends who could turn into intimate connections if relationships. You will get drawn into groups that you join clubs or take creative courses. are not favorable to you. You will attract new love Your lucky day this week will be Friday. PABABA interests. 1 Pangkulay sa buhok 15 Information Technology 26 Pinagkukunan ng ginto Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. Pisces 2 Minalas: pabalbal 17 Nasipat 28 Ulirat (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) Virgo Your creative ability will surface, giving you good 3 Asero 18 Ihawak (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) ideas for ways of making money. Be careful not to 4 Hikayat 19 Lugar sa Project 2 You will be emotional with regard to your personal push your luck or take too much for granted when 5 Unang alpabeto 20 Relihiyoso life. New relationships will surface through work dealing on either a personal or professional level. You 6 Hindi pagpasok sa klase 21 Sira sa kamote relate events. Exaggeration or deception coupled with may win favors if you present your ideas and include overindulgence might be a problem. Your business your family. Don’t let the cat out of the bag. 7 Misis 22 Ikaw sense will be leading you in a direction that indicates Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. 8 Wasak 23 Ingay ng natutulog Answers to this week’s more travel and communication. 9 Bulungan 24 Ibigay sa iba Krosword on NEXT WEEK’S issue Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. B6 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 entertainment Full circle for Red in Aiai Delas Alas add flavor to film “isn’t just about an endan- Philippine Adobo Festival in Texas gered animal. It’s also about the endangered truth. The parallelism fascinates me.” In celebration of Philippine American History Month, Kapuso Comedy Queen His film likewise “tackles Aiai Delas Alas is bringing her own brand of fun to the Philippine Adobo Festival in the hypocrisy of the rich and powerful—people who twist the Texas, happening this October 29 at the Swayz Ballroom in Dallas and on October nation’s priorities and use events 30 at the Schertz Community Center in San Antonio. to distract the public from truly Known for her wit and humor, the Sunday PinaSaya mainstay is expected to add important issues.” He hopes foreign audiences a dash of excitement to the event, which aims to unite Filipinos in Texas through will be able to connect with the their shared love of a well-known Filipino dish – the “adobo”. story. “At its heart, it’s universal,” The Philippine Adobo Festival promises to be a feast for the senses, with its he points out. He made sure to add “mystery thriller elements much-anticipated adobo cooking contests, rousing cultural dances, and live bands. to add excitement” to a socially These will be topped with bombastic performances from Aiai Delas Alas herself. relevant tale. The Philippine Adobo Festival is organized by AZ Media Entertainment Ser- Also, “there’s something vices. very ‘anime’ about a young girl wielding a huge gun,” he quips. “I GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International – GMA Net- hope Japanese audiences will be work’s three international channels – serve as the two-day event’s exclusive media gripped by its twists and turns.” sponsors. He admits that the shoot for the film was a circuitous journey, For ticket inquiries, interested parties may call (713) 483-4783 or (214) 282- as well—taking the cast and crew 0334. Entrance to the event costs $10 for adults and $5 for those who are 13 years from southern to northern Philip- old and below. pines. “Shooting in different remote For more information on events sponsored and organized by GMA Pinoy TV locations was quite challenging,” that bring Filipinos abroad closer to home, follow GMA Pinoy TV on Facebook he recalls. “We filmed in Davao, (www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV) and on Twitter and Instagram via the handle @ with the help of the Philippine Eagle Foundation. We also shot GMAPinoyTV. Visit www.gmapinoytv.com for updates and details on how to sub- exterior sequences in and up scribe to GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV, and GMA News TV International. north in Isabela, near the valley of the Sierra Madre.” Plus, they were at the mercy of the elements. “The weather was uncooperative, and we had to face a violent storm on our way back to Manila.” Fortunately, he had a solid cast, led by , Arnold Filmmaker Mikhael Red Reyes, Ku Aquino and Mary Joy (Photo: www.juice.ph) Apostol, behind him. Coincidentally, Arcilla Tokyo—It’s like “coming full would be in Tokyo twice with two starred in “Anino,” the short circle,” young filmmaker Mikhail feature films,” he relates. “I’ve de- film of Red’s dad, which won the Red says of his return to the veloped a strong relationship with Palme D’Or at Cannes in 2000, Tokyo International Film Festival the festival and hope to continue and his later Tokyo fest entry, this year. screening my future works there.” “Himpapawid.” He recalls that he first at- Arnold Reyes (left) and John “I’ve always wanted to work tended the A-list fest in 2009 to Arcilla in a scene from “Birdshot” with John,” Red owns up. “I shot accompany his father, Cannes- Arnold Reyes (left) and John the behind-the-scenes footage of winning director Raymond Red Arcilla in a scene from “Birdshot” my father’s film (‘Himpapawid’) whose feature film, “Himpa- “Birdshot,” which recounts and got the chance to observe pawid,” was in competition in the the complications that arise after John at work.” main tilt. a Philippine eagle is accidentally He confesses that he was He was only 18 years young mowed down by impoverished initially “intimidated” by the actor then, but he made a vow to come rural residents, was inspired by a who played “Heneral Luna.” “But back: “I remember telling myself true-life incident. after our first big scene, we found that I’ll be back with my own Years ago, Red came across a the right tempo and everything feature film someday.” news account of a similar case. “A went smoothly. His talent brought The dream came true in father and his son shot and ate the his complex character to life.” 2013, when he screened his debut endangered bird. The man was Post-Tokyo, he plans to re- feature, “Rekorder,” in the Tokyo eventually jailed, but he insisted lease “Birdshot” in local theaters, fest’s Asian Future section. that he was unaware of the laws “with the help of Tuko and Buchi Three years later, he joins the that protect the Philippine eagle.” Boy [the same company behind Asian Future derby once again, Red calls the story “a tragic ‘Heneral Luna’].” with his latest work, “Birdshot.” parable for both conservationists “We are excited to see (Also in the same section is com- and the simple folk who need edu- Filipino viewers’ reaction,” he patriot Ivan Andrew Payawal’s “I cation, surviving on the margins says. (Bayani San Diego Jr. / America.”) of the country’s wilderness.” Iinquirer.net) “It’s hard to imagine that I He asserts, however, that the Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 FilAm Star B7 entertainment ‘Bato’: 30 celebrities on drug Jake Ejercito finally admits being list submitted to Duterte father to Andi’s daughter The Philippine National Po- sino ‘yung mga kinanta nu’ng drug list. After months lice (PNP) has at least 30 names celebrity supplier nila ng drugs,” Of the 50, 10 are suspected of media buzz of celebrities and television per- he said. drug pushers while others were regarding the sonalities on its list of persons “Hintayin na lang natin known users of party drugs. paternity issue involved in the illegal drug trade, kung i-aannounce ni Presidente The police chief earlier over Andi Eigen- PNP chief Dir. Gen. Ronald ‘yung mga pangalan or kung vowed that no special treatment mann’s daughter, “Bato” dela Rosa confirmed. ayaw niya i-announce, we still would be given to celebrities and model-actor Jake “The TV personalities Ejercito has finally list the in the govern- admitted he is the NCRPO ment’s crack- biological father of (National down on drugs. Ellie, who is now 5 Capital He said the years old. Region Po- police will soon He feels lice Office) conduct “Oplan relieved that he gave to me Tokhang” on can now be open has around celebrities about his real ties 30 names involved in to Ellie to whom he From left, Jake Ejercito, Andi Eigenmann, and daughter Ellie of celebri- drugs, visit them dedicated his Best (Photo: www..com) ties,” Dela in their houses New Male Artist award during Rosa said and in some TV the recent Star Awards for Music ingly nonchalant attitude over refused and a word war soon in a press stations to ask and Television rites. his supposed obligation to ensued. conference them to change “To my number one inspira- Eigenmann. The actress even As to the possibility of ask- at Camp their ways. tion, my princess, my Ellie… mentioned his name on her 2011 ing for forgiveness from Casiño, Crame. Dela Rosa This is for you”, he said in his blog post as her baby’s father, Ejercito said,”The thing (is), Dela said the police speech. whom she called “baby daddy.” personally, I didn’t pinpoint Rosa said Gen. Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa are willing to in- In an interview with Pep.ph, Casiño felt vindicated when anyone. So I don’t see a need… he has (Photo: www.journal.com.ph) vite the media to Ejercito said he was delightedly a DNA test showed that he is not me, personally, to apologize.” submitted join them during shocked to know that a DNA test the father of Ellie. He had been “Never ko rin naman the list to their Tokhang done last year showed Ellie is bad-mouthed for years over the inaway si Albie or anything,” he President Rodrigo Duterte. He initiate our moves,” Dela Rosa operation on celebrities. indeed his child. issue, and his career had been added. said the President will include added. Some celebrities who have “Let’s put this way, when affected. He got himself deeper The big reveal exploded the names on the latter’s own The figure, however, was been accosted recently by the I found out, nagulat ako. I was into trouble when he was quoted not too long ago when Andi’s “celebrity watchlist.” contrary to the previous claim authorities for drug use or really surprised. But I’m happy then as saying he never felt the half-sister, Max Eigenmann, “Pinasa ko na sa Malaca- of former Volunteers Against possession include actor Marc and I have no regrets,” he said. “leap of blood” when he saw El- divulged on a podcast that nanang at idagdag na iyon sa Crime and Corruption chair and Anthony Fernandez and former When Eigenmann became lie and was convinced she could Ejercito and not Casiño is the listahan ni Presidente. Meron Subic Bay Metropolitan Author- sexy stars Sabrina M. and Krista pregnant, she claimed that the not have been his child. His father of her niece and that they siyang mga “celebrity watch- ity (SBMA) chair Martin Diño, Miller. (Jullianne Love de Jesus father was her then boyfriend camp had suggested a DNA test found this out from the result of list.” So ‘yung galing sa akin who said that there are about / inquirer.net) actor Albie Casiño, who caught to determine his accountability a DNA test. (Clarizel Abanilla / idagdag niya na iyon. Kung sino 50 celebrities on the President’s many people’s ire for his seem- over the child, but Andi’s camp inquirer.net) The day Bimby met baby bro MJ All’s well that ends well for Kris Aquino, her ex-husband James Yap and his Italian girlfriend, Mic Cazzola. According to James, he was surprised to receive a text from Kris on Oct. 20, saying that she wanted their son, Bimby, to finally meet his baby brother, MJ (son of James and Mic). Came the day of the first meeting of Bimby and MJ on Oct. 22. Initially, Kris planned to just wait for Bimby in the car, but Mic said that the former was more than welcome to come in and see the baby, too. So they instantly became “one happy family”—all for the love of Bimby and MJ! The basketball superstar told me that, at first, he didn’t know what to do. But when James saw his two sons together, everything seemed to fall into place, and the situation became “light and easy.” He said it brought a priceless feeling that beat all his basketball championship moments combined. James also told me that when Bimby saw MJ, he exclaimed, “He looks like me!” Bimby brought a lot of toys for his baby brother, and Mic prepared merienda for them. The next day, Kris sent Mic flowers. The unexpected turn of events could not have happened at a better time, especially because Mic’s birthday (Oct. 27) was fast coming up. No birthday gift could top that kind of joy when one kind of love gives Photo at left: Bimbi Yap and Michael James. Right picture: from left, Kris Aquino, way to another. (Dolly Anne Carvajal / inquirer.net) Bimbi, and Michela Cazzola Yap. (Photo: www..com) B8 FilAm Star Oct. 27 - Nov. 2, 2016 Savor Filipino showcases unique Travel and Culinary Adventure By Katrina Palana-Soledad | just became more interesting and tential for Filipino cuisine. So base Correspondent dishes by top chefs, Pinoys & others more creative and less than he expectation was the food would understood how to make it, so he taste good, the food would look OAKLAND – Thousands of Filipino Food Movement. said had to learn how to make this good, the guests would be happy people attended Savor Filipino, an “A lot of food festivals we have food. Chef Brian and his busi- and the chefs would be happy. event organized by The Filipino right now pressure the chefs to pay ness partner, Joel Crespo, were And the turnout was better than Food Movement last October 15 at some kind of fee to be in it. A lot the thinking of setting up a food truck expected,“ said Quesada. the beautiful Overlook Lounge. It time they cannot afford to be at big and he was determined to serve Sonia Delen, president of The has been two years since this event festivals but we don’t ask anything Filipino food hence the beginning Filipino Food Movement, said “The was first launched in San Francisco. from the chefs except for their of Guerilla Street Food –which is turnout was amazing. It’s awesome That year, Savor Filipino was a bit talents, their hands and their time. an award-winning Filipino inspired even with the threatening rain overwhelmed when 30,000 people We want them to have this network restaurant. people still came. We are absolutely showed up at their venue in an open where they can rely on each other Dominican Chef Miguel Trini- delighted that we have so many plaza in downtown San Francisco. and help each other out. They may dad – Executive Chef and Owner of This year, it was held in a controlled have some pains in running their Maharlika Restaurant & Jeepney environment with limited space and businesses and we just wanted them Gastropub in New York, NY -- expected a crowd of 1,400 people. to have these connections so they prepared Ginataang Alimasag over From Savor Filipino’s first launch can call on each other for help, if Bringhe (softshell crab in coconut in 2012, the food scene has changed needed,“ she added. milk served over heirloom Rice and the cuisine of the Philippines is Savor Filipino wants the fam- Paella) for the Buksan Dinner. He finally attracting food lovers from ily kind of environment, like a get started a project in 2008 with busi- all ethnicities. together, which is what Filipino cui- ness partner Nicole Fonseca as she sine or Filipino food gathering is all wanted to put the Filipino cuisine about: good food, connecting with on the map. “She wanted to bridge people, bonding and good energy. the culture and wanted to introduce Creating Broad Awareness it on mainstream. And in 2011, we “The Filipino Food Move- were fortunate enough to open our ment was really created (for) broad brick and mortar and a year later, awareness of the cuisine (and also) we opened up ‘Jeepney’ and here we people, not only Filipinos, but the to create a new market dynamic,” are now,“ said Chef Miguel. mainstream coming here to enjoy said Filipino Food Movement These are just four of the 15 the food and meeting people. We Founder and Board Chairman, PJ whatever monitors people have “Pancit Lomi is a popular dish amazing chefs featured in Savor didn’t only want to showcase the Quesada. He added, “…we want to been using to describe it.” which originated in the province of Filipino 2016. Filipino food but also the bever- create demand so we are using the The Filipino Food Movement Batangas, where my mother’s side Good Food For A Good Cause ages and drinks. Be proud of what modern tools of our era where we Art Director, Al Perez said, “We is from and I wanted to bring that “West Bay Pilipino is the ben- we produce out of the Philippines.” are using visual tools, using social wanted to elevate Filipino cuisine out because it’s not your traditional eficiary of FFM Savor Filipino 2016 Savor Filipino featured special cock- media, we are using execution. Food and showcase Filipino food as sinigang or arroz caldo. I wanted to tail drinks using Philippine made Back in 2012, Andrew Zim- is a form of entertainment now. So something up to par with any other bring something new and open the alcoholic beverages (Tanduay and mern, host of Bizarre Foods on the we have our chefs, our artists, they Asian and mainstream cuisine out different flavors and layers of the Infanta Lambanog) and Sun Tropics Travel Channel, had a theory: “I are the entertainment. They are the there.” Pancit Lomi,” she said. Juice Drinks. predict, two years from now, Fili- stars so we build a stage for them Diverse Chefs. Elevated Fili- Chef Janice Dulce of FOB so that is what Savor Filipino is – it PHOTO COLLAGE CREDITS: pino food will be what we will have pino Cuisine. Kitchen in SF was slated to prepare Chef Andres @oceanpacificgrille · Pakbet been talking about for six months is a stage for the culinary artist to Savor Filipino organizers invit- the third course, Beef Mechado. She at Bagnet Ilokano (credit: @filipinofood- … I think that’s going to be the next perform and it’s a stage where the ed Filipino and non-Filipino chefs said, “it is one of my grandmother’s movement ) big thing.” And, boy, was he right. audience can gather and see what from across the country to par- specialty dishes. I’m doing it with Chef Ang @pinoyheritage · Grilled Bistek these chefs can do. What we want Skewers (credit: @pinoyheritage ) Since that year, Filipino cuisine has ticipate in this event. “We are very short ribs in mechado braising Chef Caabay @kainbigan · Pancit Lomi been making waves in the inter- the world to see about Savor Fili- conscious that we did choose chefs liquid with onions, tomatoes, bell Soup (credit: @thegourmez ) national scene. Foodies, Filipino pino is that Filipino food is amazing of non-Filipino heritage. When I go peppers, garlic and bay leaves. We Chef Doherty @krakencongee · and non-Filipinos, from across the to food shows talking about Filipino then braise that for three hours so (credit:Hardesty ) Chef Gilla @tselogs_pinoysilog · Manok nation flocked at the posh Overlook food, people will look at me and say, it’s super tender and will serve that Sisigsilog (credit: @filipinofoodmove- Lounge to get a taste of the elevated “but you are not even Filipino”. I on top of garlic mashed potatoes, – which is the most important Food ment ) Filipino cuisine prepared by top get it because it’s surprising to see beautiful piece of short-rib and top Festival in the Bay Area if not, the Chefs Reyes & Brillantes @thesarapshop · chefs all over the country. someone who is not Filipino talking it off with crispy onions, roasted nation because we have culinary tal- Vegan Popcorn Chick’n Sinigang, Atchara, ents being flown in from other parts & Jasmine Milktea (credit: @arni ) Buksan Theme about Filipino food with so much bell peppers and carrots.” Chefs Tiglao @kulinarya · Dueling Relyeno “This year’s theme is Buksan passion – well, we love our food,” Both Chef Janice and Chef of the United States,” said West Bay Isda (credit: @filipinofoodmovement ) meaning to open. And our goal for said Quesada. Charleen prepared dishes that are Pilipino Multi-Service Executive Di- Chef Lozano @curbside.kitchen · Oyster this event was to basically open up a He added, “And when people close to their hearts – family, tradi- rector Vivian Araullo. “We are very Kinilaw (credit: @r3dlin3sf ) pleased because parts of the pro- Harana · Laing Sa Bintana (credit: @ treasure chest – what Filipino food see somebody who is not Filipino tion, happy memories and heritage thegourmez ) can be…what treasures can we find doing this, I really think it challeng- - that is what Filipino cuisine is all ceed goes to fund our college prep Chef Manaois · Dessert Trio (credit: @ in Filipino food…what gems do we es the traditional sense of what’s about. for underserved Filipino youth. filipinofoodmovement ) have in Filipino food? So we told the allowed in Filipino food. Because Chef Brian Hardest - Execu- This will also inspire the youth to Chef Gilbuena @saloseries · Kinilaw Sa possibly pursue their career in the Gata (credit: @thesarapshop ) chefs, do what you want and be cre- when you remove someone else’s tive Chef and Co-Owner of Guer- Chef Hardesty @guerillastreet · Fabada ative with what you want because and it’s worthy of investment; it’s standard, and you only apply your rilla Street Food in St. Louis, MO culinary arts so it works (any) way Asturiana (credit: @porkcheek ) a lot of the chefs are very restricted worthy of experimentation. Every- own, I feel like the possibilities are prepared Fabada Asturiana (braised you look at it. But the most impor- Chef Dulce @fob_kitchen · Mecha- on what they can prepare at their one has a standard or a truth of limitless.” Hopefully, in the next pork and sausage with Fava Beans) tant, in my view, is getting to team dong Baka & Crispy Sibuyas (credit: @ Filipino food and we want people to up in promoting Filipino culture on porkcheek ) own restaurants. So this is the time few years, more non-Filipino chefs for the Buksan Dinner. He has been Chef Trinidad @maharlikanyc @jeep- for them to get as creative as they know that every truth is acceptable and cooks discover our amazing cooking for the past 20 years and Filipino-Amercian History month,” neynyc · Ginataang Alimasag Over Bringhe want, do things that’s they’ve never and there is a place in the spec- Filipino cuisine. started creating Filipino dishes in she added. (credit: @eecastro ) tried before, explore their history trum for all kinds of Filipino food. Jersey-born Charleen Caabay 2011. Chef Brian was inspired by Expectations Met Chef Dames @weebly · Tsokolate Genoise And it shouldn’t be just limited to “Our goal for Savor Filipino & Mangga Mousse Cake (credit: @ and culture, and just have fun,” said of “Kainbigan” restaurant in Oak- tasting Chicken Adobo and instantly cbcastro) Joanne Boston-Kwanhull, VP of The traditional, authentic or fusion or land, CA prepared Pancit Lomi. fell in love with it. Then each dish was to shine the spotlight on the po-