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Vol. IX Issue 562 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Email: [email protected] Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 January 16-22, 2020 Rescue of OFWs in Iran, Iraq on hold By Beting Laygo Dolor -- where more than 200,000 OFWs are Contributing Editor based -- after the US military launched an attack near a Baghdad airport, kill- OVERSEAS Filipino workers (OFWs) ing Iranian Gen. Qasem Suleimani. based in Iran and Iraq may or may not President Rodrigo Duterte imme- be “rescued” by the Philippine gov- diately dispatched former ambassador Democrat Cory Booker ernment. It all depends on the state of and Environment Sec. Roy Cimatu to relations between the US and Iran. bring back as many Filipinos as possi- quits presidential race Last week saw a heightened possi- ble, specifically those in Iraq. OFWs (Photo: Twitter) US NEWS | A2 bility of war in the volatile Middle East ■ TO PAGE A7

Duterte threatens nationalization of water providers PH NEWS | A3 Taal volcanic tsunami eruption feared By Daniel Llanto FilAm Star Correspondent

IF THE alert level on the eruptive Taal Volcano is raised from the cur- rent 4 to 5, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phi- 49ers progress to volcs) warned that a volcanic tsunami NFC championship would devastate the country far worse SPORTS NEWS | A9 than the heavy ash-fall that now poses health risks in some Metro Manila cities. Pompeo A volcanic tsunami may occur in caldera lakes when water is displaced by warns Silicon deformation of the lake floor caused by rising magma. Phivolcs earlier raised alert level 4 over Taal which means a Valley on hazardous explosion may occur within hours or days. China ahead TheTaal volcano (Photo: Twitter/Michael Sagaran) of trade pact ■ TO PAGE A7 US SECRETARY of State Mike Visa Upon Arrival De Lima hits PH ‘red carpet Pompeo on Monday warned Silicon Valley not to bolster China’s “Orwel- lian” state, two days before the world’s program amended to treatment’ of China Coast two largest economies sign a partial trade deal. Speaking to a tech-heavy crowd prevent overstaying Guard on goodwill visit in San Francisco, Pompeo trumpeted the “phase one” deal to tame a two- By Daniel Llanto year trade war but told businesses Chinese tourists, others FilAm Star Correspondent that they needed to do more. By Corina Oliquino Philippine offshore gaming operator “We need to make sure American FilAm Star Correspondent (POGO) establishments. A CHINA Coast Guard vessel docked technology doesn’t power a truly Or- Perete said amendments to VUA at the Port of Manila last January 13 wellian surveillance state. We need to for a “friendly visit,” which raised the MANILA -- Department of Justice will take effect immediately. make sure American principles aren’t hackles of Sen. Leila de Lima for the (DoJ) Undersec. Mark Perete said the “Technically what is required by sacrificed for prosperity,” Pompeo supposedly red carpet treatment of an department will publish and make effec- law is a reasonable period to notify the said at the Commonwealth Club. armed group that “regularly intimi- tive this week a circular to impose strict- public after the publication. But in this He said he was not discouraging dates” Filipino fishermen. er policies for Chinese nationals who are case, this (VUA) is a privilege being firms from heading to China, insisting “Imagine our Coast Guard discuss- holders of Visa Upon Arrival (VUA). granted to foreign individuals. So, in that the Trump administration wants ing protocols at sea with the very people The amended rules of the VUA essence, the publication requirement is “American companies to get rich do- who regularly intimidate our own fish- program will cover Chinese visitors enough notice, and the effectivity put in ing business there.” ermen, in our own territory! Duterte and businessmen who would be stay- the department circular is immediate “At the same time, we need to gives the best seat at the banquet table ing for short durations in the country, upon publication,” Perete said. make sure that our companies don’t to China, while we wait for whatever as well as athletes and delegates to “This will make sure that no one do deals that strengthen our competi- crumbs they might throw around,” De international conferences. Chinese would overstay in the Philippines,” tor’s military or tighten their regime’s Lima said in a dispatch from her deten- tourists will also Perete added, with the changes to VUA grip of repression in parts of that tion cell in Camp Crame. not be allowed more restrictive and will order Chinese country,” he said. employment in Rights advocates have voiced ■ TO PAGE A7 Sen. Leila De Lima (Photo: Facebook) ■ TO PAGE A7 growing concern about China’s use of technology to develop intrusive Bongbong’s call to revise textbooks electronic surveillance. In the tightly controlled western region of Xinjiang, where experts say an attempt at ‘historical revisionism’ more than one million mostly Muslim By Corina Oliquino attempt at historical revisionism. the Martial Law era of the late dictator people are incarcerated, China FilAm Star Correspondent “This is a clear move at historical Ferdinand Marcos. is said to be fine-tuning revisionism and another desperate Tañada cited Amnesty International technology that will allow attempt by the Marcoses to erase the which said that over 3,200 people were MANILA -- The Liberal Party (LP) security forces to quickly memory of the horrors of Martial Law killed from 1972 to 1981 while some 70,000 Vice-president for External Affairs and absolve the sins of their father,” were arrested and 32,000 were tortured. identify anyone and give Erin Tañada criticized on January 11 Tañada said, noting the Marcos family “Nais ng mga Marcos na ibaon na details about their move- former senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” ments and background. “cannot hide the atrocities, human lang sa limot ang mga pag-abusong Marcos Jr. after he called for the re- rights violations and corruption” during “Ask yourselves vision of history books, labelling it an ■ TO PAGE A7 just a few questions -- who am I dealing with? What’s the true risk/return calculus to doing business in China?” Pompeo said. Trump is set to sign the partial deal on Wednesday after prolonged feuding, dropping new tariffs that were set to take effect on

TO PAGE A7 Sen. Bongbong Marcos ■ (Photo: Facebook) A2 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 US News Democrats to clash Democrat Cory Booker, campaign in final debate optimist, exits White House race CITING a lack of funds, US Senator Cory Book- Moral clarity er dropped out of the Democratic presidential All six candidates in Tuesday’s debate are before Iowa votes nomination race Monday, a move that leaves a white: former vice president Joe Biden, senators less diverse field vying to face Donald Trump in Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobu- SIX DEMOCRATS braced for Tuesday’s final still refuses to admit he was dead wrong on the November’s election. char, former South Bend mayor Pete Buttigieg and presidential debate before Iowa kicks off the Iraq War, the worst foreign policy blunder in “It’s with a full heart that I share this news,” billionaire activist Tom Steyer. nomination process February 3, and with no modern American history,” Sanders senior advi- Booker said in a statement on the eve of the last Candidate Andrew Yang, an entrepreneur candidate yet gaining the upper hand, they were sor Jeff Weaver said in a statement. Democratic debate before Iowa kicks off the nomi- of Taiwanese descent, and Tulsi Gabbard, who is ready to rumble. Sanders has also apparently chided Warren nation voting on February 3. Samoan-American, failed to qualify for Tuesday’s Former vice president Joe Biden is leading as the candidate of the elite, with Politico report- “Our campaign has reached the point where we debate stage. nationally, but no clear frontrunner has emerged ing that Sanders volunteers were instructed to tell need more money to scale up and continue building Obama-era cabinet member Julian Castro, in Iowa, and candidates are scrambling for a voters that Warren could not expand the Demo- a campaign that can win -- money we don’t have, the only Latino in the race, called it quits last breakout moment that could translate into the first cratic base in a general election. and money that is harder to raise because I won’t be week. tangible victory in a tight contest over who chal- Warren said she was “disappointed” by the on the next debate stage,” Booker said. Yang was the only candidate of color on the lenges President Donald Trump in November. report that Sanders sent volunteers to “trash” The New Jersey senator said his role as a juror debate stage in December, and he poignantly With the battle intensifying, some of the her, telling reporters in Iowa that “I hope Bernie in the upcoming impeachment trial of President called it “both an honor and disappointment.” sharpest exchanges of the year-long campaign reconsiders and turns his campaign in a different Donald Trump would further cramp his fund- Booker, an effervescent presence on the trail, were leveled between top liberals Bernie Sanders direction.” raising abilities, “because the urgent business had called for a revival of civic grace, saying moral and Elizabeth Warren, senators and self-de- of impeachment will rightly be keeping me in clarity was necessary in trying times. scribed friends whose cordiality accord appears ‘Feud brewing?’ Washington.” He earned praise from Democratic voters for to have unraveled. In a further sign that the gloves were off, Perhaps more than any candidate, the advocating for criminal justice reform and stron- The debate in Des Moines, Iowa risks being CNN reported Monday that Sanders told Warren 50-year-old Booker, a skilled orator with a mil- ger gun safety laws. He also called for raising taxes overshadowed by another historic political drama: in a private meeting in late 2018, as they both lion-watt smile, had channeled unity, hope and on the wealthy, and sought reforms to the health Trump’s looming impeachment trial in the US contemplated presidential runs, that he did not optimism on the campaign trail. care system. Senate, which -- if it begins later this week or next believe a woman could defeat Trump. “I believed to my core that the answer to the But his campaign never caught fire, and in re- -- would force four presidential candidates to stay in The Sanders campaign responded swiftly, common pain Americans are feeling right now, the cent months he languished at around two percent Washington serving as jurors in the proceedings. saying, “It is ludicrous to believe that... I would answer to Donald Trump’s hatred and division, is support nationally. Tuesday’s nationally televised showdown will tell her that a woman couldn’t win.” to reignite our spirit of common purpose to take Trump, in typical fashion, sarcastically feature the smallest stage yet -- and its whitest, Polling is tight in Iowa, with Biden, Sanders, on our biggest challenges and build a more just mocked Booker as he exited the race. with no people of color qualifying for the debate Buttigieg and Warren all separated by just 4.7 and fair country for everyone,” he said. “Now I can rest easy tonight,” the president for the first time in the 2020 race. percentage points, according to a RealClearPoli- Early on, the crowded Democratic field was tweeted. “I was sooo concerned that I would some- The Democratic Party last year hailed its his- tics average of recent polls. praised for being the most diverse in history. day have to go head to head with him!” torically diverse presidential field, but one by one With Iowans fretting over who would be best But the departure of Senator Kamala Harris, Booker earned a flood of praise and gratitude minority candidates have fallen by the wayside, positioned to defeat Trump, the race is volatile; who dropped out in December, and now Booker from fellow Democratic candidates, however, and the latest being African-American Senator Cory each of the top four candidates has led at least leaves just one black candidate, Deval Patrick, some commentators have speculated about him as Booker, who dropped out on Monday. one major state poll in the last two months. among the dozen remaining Democratic hopefuls. a possible vice presidential pick. The debate features establishment candi- Biden was lagging in Iowa in November, But the former Massachusetts governor is “You made our politics better just by run- date Biden, progressives Sanders and Warren, perhaps buffeted by the scandal of Trump pres- barely registering in the polls. ning,” Biden said. (AFP) centrists Senator Amy Klobuchar and former suring Ukraine to open investigations into Biden South Bend mayor Pete Buttigieg, and billionaire and his son Hunter, who served on the board of a US sends home 21 Saudis as probe activist Tom Steyer. Ukrainian energy company. As Iowa nears, Tuesday may spell the most But Biden has proved resilient, and the latest consequential moment of the campaign to date. poll, by Monmouth University, showed him lead- finds shooting was ‘terrorism’ Fortified by his resilient showing in recent ing in Iowa. THE UNITED States will send home 21 Saudi mil- gun,” in addition to several other anti-US, anti-Isra- polls despite suffering a heart attack last Novem- With Sanders and Warren clashing over who itary trainees after an investigation into the “jihad- el and jihadist messages, the investigation revealed. ber, Sanders appeared eager to seize the moment could best carry the progressive torch, Trump ist” killing of three American sailors last month, the The shooting threatened a decades-old and went on the offensive against rivals. weighed in: “Elizabeth is very angry at Bernie,” he Justice Department announced Monday. military training program crucial to the US-Saudi He savaged Biden with a pointed statement tweeted. “Do I see a feud brewing?” Attorney General Bill Barr said the December relationship, which involves billions of dollars of criticizing the ex-senator’s vote in support of Trump may have inadvertently picked a fight 6 shootings by Royal Saudi Air Force 2nd Lieu- military sales to the kingdom. going to war in Iraq, a subject that has gained with Sanders Sunday when the president high- tenant Mohammed Saeed Alshamrani at the US There are around 850 Saudis among the renewed review with Trump’s ordered killing lighted the 78-year-old’s strong poll performance Naval Air Station in Pensacola, Florida was an “act 5,000 foreign military personnel undergoing train- of an Iranian commander in Baghdad and the and posted online: “So what does this all mean?” of terrorism.” ing in the United States. subsequent fallout. “It means you’re going to lose,” Sanders “The evidence shows that the shooter was Many, such as the Saudis in Pensacola, are “It is appalling that after 18 years Joe Biden tweeted back. (AFP) motivated by jihadist ideology,” he told reporters. trained in flying and maintenance of US-made There was no evidence that Alshamrani had military aircraft their countries are purchasing. colluded with others, although Barr said FBI inves- “These military partnerships are critically tigators had been unable to unlock his two phones important to our country,” Barr said. to determine whom he had contacted. “We have asked Apple for their help in un- ‘Hard reset’ locking the shooter’s iPhones. So far Apple has not Florida Senator Rick Scott, however, called for given us any substantive assistance,” Barr said. the suspension of the Saudi program for further The attorney general said 21 of Alshamrani’s review by the Department of Defense. colleagues were being expelled from the base’s “This was an act of terrorism. Given the FBI’s flight school after the probe found many of them confirmation that a number of Saudi nationals had jihadist material and child porn. engaged in troubling conduct, it’s clear we need a While the material didn’t rise to the level of hard reset,” Scott tweeted. criminal prosecution, Barr said Riyadh had “de- “I’m calling on the Saudi gov’t to recall all termined that this material demonstrated conduct Saudi nationals training in the US until DOD can unbecoming an officer in the Saudi Royal Air conduct a full review.” Force and Royal Navy and the 21 cadets have been FBI Deputy Director David Bowdich said dis-enrolled from their training curriculum.” Alshamrani undertook the attack with a legal- They were to return to Saudi Arabia later ly-bought semi-automatic pistol. Monday, Barr said. Normally non-residents are not permitted to He added that the Saudi government had buy firearms in the US, but Alshamrani exploited vowed to review each case under its code of mili- an exception that allows foreigners to buy guns for tary justice and criminal code. “hunting.” “Further, the kingdom has assured us that, Bowditch said Alshamrani had 180 rounds of if we later decide to charge any of those being ammunition and multiple magazines, including a sent back to Saudi Arabia in connection with this high-capacity magazine, which some states have counterterrorism investigation, it will return them sought to ban or tightly control in the wake of for trial,” Barr said. mass shootings. Barr said the shooting “perfectly illustrates” Jihadist messages why US law enforcement should be able to de- Alshamrani gunned down three US sailors mand cellphone makers’ cooperation to unlock and wounded eight other people in a classroom phones in appropriate circumstances. block, in what Barr described as a premeditated “We call on Apple and other technology assault, before police shot the gunman dead. companies to help us find a solution so that we can He had posted a message on social media on better protect the lives of Americans and prevent September 11, 2019 saying “the countdown has be- future attacks,” he said. (AFP) January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star A3 PH News DoJ to file raps vs. Duterte threatens remittance company, to nationalize water religious group providers should they refuse gov’t By Beting Laygo Dolor officers of the Kapa Community Ministry Interna- Contributing Editor tional. They were found by the Securities and Ex- change Commission (SEC) of engaging in a Ponzi imposed contracts scheme, masked as an investment program. THE DEPARTMENT of Justice (DoJ) an- By Macon Araneta He said the President will also give an order The DoJ charged Kapa founder Joel Apoli- nounced last week that charges would be filed to nationalize the water services in their respective nario, trustee Margie Danao, and corporate secre- FilAm Star Correspondent against a remittance company and a religious group areas of operation. for their roles in serious financial malfeasance. tary Reyna Apolinario for violating the Securities THREATENING investors with imprisonment The President, Panelo also said, will also pros- Four counts of money laundering were ordered Regulation Code. should they refuse to accept a government-imposed ecute all those involved directly or indirectly in the filed against the owners of Philrem Service Corp., The Kapa officials were found to have “willful- contract is criminal behavior under the Revised issue that the presidential spokesperson described listed as a remittance firm, involved in the US$81 ly, unlawfully and criminally” engaged in the sales Penal Code, stressed Sen. Francis Pangilinan. as constitutionally flawed contracts that violated million Bangladesh Bank cyber heist in 2016. and distribution of securities without SEC approval. “Coming as it does from the highest office the provisions of the anti-graft law. The scandal involved one of the country’s top Kapa is based in Bislig, Mindanao. Former of the land sends the terrible signal to all inves- Earlier Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” commercial banks, the Rizal Commercial Banking members had accused the organization of asking tors whether foreign or local that they too can be Go believes the two water firms should accept the Corp., (RCBC) owned by the Yuchengco family. “contributions” from its members. In exchange, imprisoned without bail should they disagree with new contracts without the onerous provisions. Philrem was found to have failed to report they would receive interest in their contributions. the powers that be,” said Pangilinan, also presi- He guaranteed what the President only wants questionable transactions to the Anti-Money After the interest stopped coming in, a number of dent of the Liberal Party. to protect the best interest of every Filipino in the Laundering Council (AMLC) as required by members sought help from the DoJ. The opposition leader also urged the country’s new contract. Republic Act No. 9160, otherwise known as the Kapa leaders offered to settle with the former economic team led by Sec. Dominguez to manage “We want that in the contract that the interest Anti-Money Laundering Act. members who filed their complaints, with some and correct the harm inflicted on the country’s of each Filipino should be the (primary) concern The suspicious transactions involved the even willing to withdraw their legal actions if they investment climate brought about by such reckless because every hard-earned peso used to pay RCBC branch along Jupiter St., in Makati City, received their money back. and irresponsible public pronouncements. their water bill is important to them like water,” where funds stolen from the central bank of Ban- Other victims were said to have refused to He warned that a bleak investment climate stressed Go. gladesh ended up in fictitious accounts. take legal action against Kapa in fear of retribu- makes for a bleak situation on investments as well “If (the water concessionaires) refuse, the The funds were in the Federal Reserve Bank tion. The unknown victims were asked to come as jobs creation that come with it.. President will nationalize the water concession of New York and were electronically transferred forward by the SEC and not be afraid. He cited the statement of Socio-economic and ensure that the government can deliver quality to the RCBC branch. The money eventually found SEC Chairman Emilio Aquino said, “We are Planning Sec. Ernesto Pernia, who said 2.3 million services,” Go said. their way to the casino industry. committed to see the criminal proceedings against Filipinos remain jobless and another 5.9 million Go also echoed the sentiments of the Presi- According to the DoJ, Philrem owners Salud Kapa through to the end.” under-employed. dent against the onerous provisions found in the and Michael Bautista along with Compliance Aside from the three top officials of the “We should be part of the solution to address existing contracts of the two water companies with Officer Anthony Pelejo knowingly transacted with religious organization, the DoJ also indicted Kapa joblessness in the country, not part of the prob- the government. money “that represents, involves, or relates to the promoters Marisol Diaz, Adelia Fernandico, Mois- lem,” further stated Pangilinan. The new contracts are yet to be reviewed proceeds of an illegal activity.” es Mopia and Reniones Catubigan. The Senator issued the statements in the by the water companies but Go reiterated that Since Philrem is involved in quasi-banking Until the three Kapa executives, however wake of threats by President Rodrigo Duterte that Maynilad and Manila Water will still not be off the operations, its officers are presumed to be aware of the promoters were charged in Rizal province appropriate charges would be filed against private hook even if they agree to the new contracts. their legal obligations, said the Justice department. and in Quezon City. water firms -- Maynilad Water Services Inc. and Maynilad and Manila Water are currently on Their failure to report what was “a very Ponzi schemes -- also known as pyramiding Manila Water Co. Inc. -- if they will not accept the 25-year concession deals signed in 1997 with a irregular, if not downright illegal, transaction” on -- have been around the Philippines for decades, the new contracts sans the onerous provisions he total of 16 million customers. a regular basis meant that they should be charged often as small companies offering the usual impos- offered them. Go lambasted the two water companies and with money laundering. sibly high returns to investors. Duterte said the filing of charges will be on even delivered a privilege speech at the Senate Under the AMLC rules, any single bank trans- The situation with Kapa is considered the top of the government’s take-over of the water plenary session last December. action involving more than PHP500,000 (about first time that a religious organization has been distribution services. “Water is essential to life. It is very basic to US$10,000) per day should be reported to the council. involved in the activity, which first appeared in the Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo our existence. It cannot be left alone to business The RCBC branch manager who facilitated the US East Coast in the 1920s. said in a statement that should both companies corporations to decide. Their primary objective transactions has since been dismissed and is filing One of the biggest Ponzi schemes of all time refuse to accept the new contracts, the President is to earn profit. I have nothing against private separate charges filed by the bank against her. involved Wall Street investor Bernie Madoff, who will order the cancellation of the present water business per se. But I have everything against bad Meanwhile, the Justice department last week pleaded guilty to the crime and is now in prison in contracts. business practices,” Go said. filed criminal charges against the founder and a federal penitentiary. BI to deport 4 fugitives wanted for fraud in China, South Korea MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immi- nationals conspired to forge a seal of a hospital gration (BI) will deport three Chinese nationals in China and managed to defraud victims of and a Korean national who are wanted for fraud more than 10 million RMB or nearly US$1.5 in their respective countries. million. Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente Investigation revealed they arrived sepa- said Tuesday that the Chinese nationals were ar- rately in the Philippines last year as tourists. rested in separate operations in Pasay City and Meanwhile, Korean national Woo Yong Manila by agents of the bureau’s fugitive search Wook, 45, also wanted for fraud by authorities unit (FSU). in Seoul, will also be deported, according to They were identified as Lin Wengao, 41; Morente. Zhang Sen, 38; and Zhang Gaosheng, 39, who FSU agents arrested Woo on Friday in are reportedly wanted for involvement in eco- Manila after a warrant of deportation was issued nomic crimes in China. against him by the BI board of commissioners. Morente said warrants of arrest were He was ordered deported after South Kore- already issued against the three and that their an authorities informed the BI that he is wanted passports were already canceled by the Chinese for being the alleged brains behind a fraudulent government. investment scam that defrauded his victims of “We will deport them immediately and more than a billion Won. they will be included in our blacklist to make BI FSU chief Bobby Raquepo said the four sure that they won’t return to the Philippines,” were the first batch of fugitives to be arrested in Morente said in a statement. 2020. He said that in 2019, the BI arrested more Citing information from the Chinese Em- than 400 alien fugitives hiding in the country. bassy in Manila, Morente said the three Chinese (inquirer.net) A4 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 PH News Imee cautions use of PH Entrepreneurial programs military in tense Mid-East, to help displaced, sees other problems in undocumented OFWs repatriation of OFWs from Mid-East get jobs

By Macon Araneta By William Casis FilAm Star Correspondent FilAm Star Correspondent

SEN. IMEE Marcos on Sunday warned the WHILE welcoming the lowering of tension in government about involving Philippine military the Middle East, Sen. Richard Gordon called for personnel and transport in evacuating and repa- continued vigilance for overseas Filipino work- triating OFWs in the Middle East, amid on-going ers (OWFs) in the Middle East. hostilities between the United States and Iran. As this developed, Sen. Win Gatchalian Marcos said diplomatic hitches, logistical urged the government to help turn displaced delays, or worse may arise if host governments and returning OFWs into local “entrepinoys” by at transit and exit points see OFW rescue oper- extending to them entrepreneurial programs. ations as military in character, while Filipinos “The situation simmered down but our peo- maintain a Mutual Defense Treaty with US. ple must still be on their toes as the Middle East “Why was Sec. Locsin shocked in the Twit- is a volatile region and preparedness is neces- ter? I understand the President’s confidence in sary. Trump gave a tough but conciliatory speech our soldiers to do their duties. But diplomacy which is why tensions in the region have subsided should be foremost in this situation,” Marcos a bit but it does not mean that our people, our said. OFWs, could be lax. Our OFWs should stay away “It’s the job of the DFA to deal with other from trouble areas. They should be pro-active and countries. The evacuation of our OFWs is the protective of their welfare,” said Gordon. task of DoLE and the policemen trained by the Gordon also called on undocumented Filipi- DFA,” Marcos added. nos in the Middle East, particularly in Iraq, Iran, The government plans to deploy Filipino Syria and Lebanon, to take advantage of the dif- soldiers and military air and naval assets to fused tension to go to the Philippine embassies assist in bringing OFWs home. and register, adding that embassies and consul- Marcos wondered why not a word has been ates should have an updated list of Filipinos in Sen. Richard Gordon (Photo: Facebook) said about asking the United Nations for help their jurisdiction. when it can provide its site camps in the Middle He also called on leaders of the powers- Enterprise Development and Loan Program East as temporary shelters for OFWs. that-be to exercise more restraint and states- (OFW-EDLP). “Dapat makipag-ugnayan si Sec. Cimatu manship in the interest of peace and the interest The said program entitles active and sa UN na may maraming mga tauhan sa Mid- of their people and people all over the world, non-active OWWA members to avail a minimum dle East, kabilang ang mga Pilipino,”” Marcos including migrant workers. of PHP100,000 up to a maximum of PHP2 mil- pointed out. For his part, Gatchalian said latest data lion worth of loans. The problems of providing transit shelters Sen. Imee Marcos (Photo: Facebook) from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) Gatchalian also took note of the ‘Balik-Pi- for Filipino migrants and of reducing the num- Marcos filed Senate Bill 407 last July, seek- show there are around 1.26 million Filipinos nas! Balik-Hanapbuhay Program’ under OW- ber of undocumented OFWs may now compli- ing to merge DFA and DoLE expertise on OFW who are in the Middle East and may be affected WA’s Reintegration Program which provides cate rescue operations that could have been issues into a Cabinet-level agency, upgrading in the event that the conflict between the United immediate relief to active or non-active mem- solved if a National Overseas Employment Au- the functions of the present Philippine Overseas States and Iran spills over the entire region. bers who were displaced from their jobs due to thority had already been created, Marcos said. Employment Authority. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) war and political conflicts in host countries. reported that there are 1,190 documented and “Instead of focusing only on where to send 450 undocumented Filipino workers in Iraq. our displaced OFWs, we should also give them FDA lists 10 unregistered The Overseas Workers Welfare Administration an alternative to overseas employment, one of (OWWA) said that there are approximately which is helping them become entrepreneurs in 1,300 Filipinos in Iran. their own country,” Gatchalian said. food products, supplements Gatchalian said the Department of Trade “When we help our OFWs start their own and Industry (DTI) and OWWA should en- businesses, we are not only helping them get a courage and assist repatriated Filipinos to set good and decent livelihood in their own country, in the market. up their own micro-, small- or medium-sized they can also provide job opportunities for other According to an FDA advisory, it verified enterprises (MSMEs) through OWWA’s OFW Filipinos as well,” he added. through postmarketing surveillance that the fol- lowing had no certificates of product registration (CPRs): J & P Cakes and Pastries Mango Tart, My Chewy Milk Candy Durian Flavor, My Chewy Grenade blast ends Milk Candy Mango Flavor, Peanut Sugar Coated and Manhu The Life-Giving Bread Muffins sa CDO. marital spat in AFP camp In another advisory, the FDA said that Nutrex Research Lip06 Black Hers Ultra Con- MANILA, Philippines — A woman reportedly personnel. He did not give additional details, centrate Extreme Fat Support, Lotte Super caused a grenade to explode inside her house in saying an investigation was still ongoing. Refresh Power (Throat Candy Herb Flavor), Camp Aguinaldo, the Armed Forces of the Phil- “The incident appears to have emanated Fitella Muesli Banana with Chocolate, Lenny”™s ippines headquarters in Quezon City, after a spat from a domestic problem where the spouses Bakeshop Dice Mocha (Jumbo) and JM Banaag with her soldier husband on Sunday morning. [were] engaged in a heated argument [before- Bakeshop Hopia also had no CPRs. Erliza de Guzman, 34, and her 11-year-old hand],” he said in a statement. “Since these unregistered food products and son suffered shrapnel wounds while her hus- “Investigators from both the AFP and food supplement have not gone through [the] band, Staff Sgt. Larry de Guzman, had bruises Philippine National Police Scene of the Crime evaluation process of the FDA, the agency can- on his body due to the blast. Office [were] doing a deeper investigation since not guarantee their quality and safety,” it added. Only the couple’s 5-year-old daughter came there were indications that the wife could have The FDA reminded establishments that the out of the incident unharmed. triggered the explosion while the husband was manufacture, importation, exportation, sale, Erliza and her son were taken to the AFP about to leave their abode,” he added. MANILA, Philippines — The Food and Drug offering for sale, distribution, transfer, noncon- Medical Center on V. Luna Avenue for treatment. Arevalo said that adjacent housing units Administration (FDA)warns the public against sumer use, promotion, advertising, or spon- According to AFP spokesperson Brig. Gen. were not affected by the explosion and that the purchasing and consuming some unregistered sorship of health products without the proper Edgard Arevalo, the explosion happened around AFP was giving the necessary assistance to the food products and food supplements being sold authorization were prohibited. (inquirer.net) 6:30 a.m. in one of the apartments for enlisted De Guzman family. (inquirer.net) FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955

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Ginebra San Miguel (Photo: Facebook) TRUE TO its preseries hype, the first two barely two minutes left. games of the Barangay Ginebra San Mi- It was a credit to Meralco’s grit and hun- guel-Meralco best-of-seven showdown for the ger that the Bolts managed to remain a threat 2019 PBA Governors’ Cup championship were despite the loss of Almazan, who had scored a decided by a grand total of six points—the Gin combined 39 points in the first two games while Kings winning the opener, 91-87, and the Bolts providing a strong inside presence as backup for equalizing with a 104-102 decision in Game 2. Allen Durham. Then the suspense was gone as Ginebra But if he’s out of the series for good, then held on to prevail in Game 3 by eight at 92-84 there’s no stopping the Gins from claiming a after opening as big as a 23-point lead and Mer- third championship in four meetings with the alco faced the prospect of losing for good Ray- Bolts since 2016. mond Almazan, who injured his left knee after Until that disastrous landing by Almazan, an awkward landing off a missed layup halfway the Bolts had looked more than a match for the through the first quarter and was gone for the Kings two days earlier in Lucena when they un- rest of the tie-breaking encounter on Sunday. loaded a franchise record 16 triples and led by 19 Almazan, Meralco’s biggest and tallest local, at 61-42 before settling for a two-point victory. was in so much pain he had to be carried to the But Baser Amer, who paced the Meralco Story by Sam Tolosa rushing yards. It also forced six punts and tallied locker room on the back of teammate Raymar three-point onslaught with five, was held by Photo by R. Mascardo six sacks and an interception. Jose. He was later brought to Makati Medical Pringle to just six points in Game 3 and the rest The special team meanwhile recorded a Center for MRI tests to determine the extent of of the unheralded quarter court shooters fired the injury, which Meralco coach Norman Black, blanks. The Gins went on to take a 20-point SANTA CLARA -- Behind a strong defensive momentum-shifting fumble recovery off Marcus a former player himself, later said was not a lead going into the last quarter before the Bolts effort and an effective rushing attack, the 49ers Sherel’s muffed punt. good sign. rallied to set the final score. cruised past the Vikings, 27-10 on Saturday to As for the 49ers offense, quarterback Jimmy With the 6-foot-8 Almazan now a doubtful If it’s any consolation for the Bolts, Allein advance to the NFC Championship game. Garoppolo set the tone early with a handful of starter in Game 4 set on Wednesday at Smart Malixi, a former Gilas Pilipinas mainstay who It was the 49ers’ return to play-off action catch-and-run completion. Araneta Coliseum, Black will also have to find played for now Ginebra coach Tim Cone for the following a five-year drought. They allowed just Once San Francisco began to silence the ways of stopping Stanley Pringle, who seemed grand slam champion San Mig Coffee in the 147 total yards, the fewest in a play-off game in Vikings offense, the 49ers rolled out their best to have recovered his deadly touch after scoring 2013-2014 season, scored his first two points in the Super Bowl history. three running backs, Tevin Coleman, Raheem only 10 points in his first ever championship the title series for his new team midway in the Though the Vikings hung around in the Mostert and Matt Breida, who combined for 180 stint in Game 1, and the late-game heroics of last quarter of Game 3. early going with a 41-yard touchdown pass from rushing yards. Japeth Aguilar and LA Tenorio. If Ginebra prevails again tomorrow, the Kirk Cousins to Stefon Diggs and a second-quar- The 49ers are simply a cut above and it Pringle unloaded 17 of his 21 points in the Kings can shoot for the title at Mall of Asia ter field goal, Minnesota was unable to respond showed on Saturday against a good Minnesota third quarter to give Ginebra a 78-55 lead in Arena on Friday. If Meralco survives Game 4, to the strong 49ers rushes over the final 30 team. Game 3 while Tenorio hit a three-pointer and Friday’s tie-breaker will be followed by a Game 6 minutes. NEXT: The NFC Championship game set: Aguilar added a layup to secure the win after the on Jan. 19 at Philippine Arena with the possible San Francisco’s defense allowed Vikings San Francisco 49ers will take on the Green Bay Bolts had come dangerously close at 82-87 with Game 7 also set there on Jan. 22. (inquirer.net) star running back Dalvin Cook to log just 18 Packers on January 19 at Levi’s Stadium. A6 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 Opinion As I See It Pelosi sends articles Everyone counts: of impeachment to Senate sans Why the census assurance of fair trial matters more than ever

ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO

FTER almost a month since the two ar- ticles of impeachment were approved by Athe House, Speaker Nancy Pelosi finally sent the impeachment articles to the Senate last Wednesday even without assurance that there will be a fair trial! Was this a wise move on her part? What made her do that without getting what she want- ed in the first place withholding the impeach- ment articles unless assured of a fair trial by GOP Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell? I think there are three things that may have nudged Pelosi to exactly do that! First, Demo- crats already thought it’s time for her to send the articles to the Senate. Seeing the pressure from among her peers, I thought she figured out to send it already after a closed door caucus in the basement of the Capitol. She doesn’t want to wrestle further with her peers, so it’s time to do it! It was a subtle signal but Pelosi saw it coming! Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Photo: Facebook) David Canepa (Photo: Facebook) Second, she thought that even without a black and white assurance from GOP Senate licly acknowledged that he is getting directions By David J. Canepa questionnaires and reminder letters will be Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, a fair trial and signals from Trump and the White House sent out March 16. If you haven’t responded by may likely to happen in view of the mileage the Legal Counsel panel. This breaks the separation HE 2020 Census gets underway soon and March 26, you will receive a reminder postcard. impasse has created resulting to the statement of powers embodied in the US constitution. Will it’s critical that every person living in the If you haven’t responded by April 8, you will get of former Security Adviser John Bolton saying the sending of the impeachment articles to the Tcounty is counted to secure federal fund- a reminder letter and paper questionnaire in the he will testify if subpoenaed by the Senate, Senate break this collaboration? Although it ing for medical services, including clinics and mail. Starting April 20, a final reminder post- among others. This time Bolton is saying that will make some senators think twice, it may not children’s health insurance, housing, emergency card will be sent before Census workers start to he will testify. Or, is he saying that because he make any difference impacting the collaboration preparedness, nutrition programs, infrastruc- follow up in person. knows the President will invoke executive privi- going on! ture and a host of other services. It is critical at this time to let everyone lege to bar him from testifying? Or, it may even To have witnesses in the trial and accept However, there are some hard-to-count know, citizen or not, that the data collected is go to the courts to find out if he will be allowed new documents, we just need a simple majority neighborhoods in the county that could jeop- completely confidential. There is no citizenship to testify. When this happens, the trial will go on with four GOPs siding with the Democrats to ap- ardize the amount of federal dollars San Mateo question on the Census and no individual who even beyond the November presidential elec- prove it. Most likely, there will be four senators County receives. African Americans, Hispanics participates in the Census will be put at risk in tions, which the GOPs more likely want to hap- siding with the Democrats in coming up with and renters are commonly the most undercount- any way. pen. I hope Bolton is sincere in his latest pro- a trial. This number, however, is not enough ed. A 1 percent undercount, for example, could For 2020, the Census Bureau will use a new nouncement because if he really wants to testify, to remove Trump from the presidency because cost San Mateo County coffers up to $75 million privacy protection system designed specifically he can ignore a possible executive privilege by we need two-thirds vote or 20 GOP senators to in lost revenue a year, or about $750 million to protect against emerging threats in today’s the president barring him from testifying. After side with the 47 Senate Democrats to remove over the next 10 years. digital world, according to the OCA. all, the privilege should be based on a policy Trump (they need 67 votes), which is unlikely to We cannot afford to lose this money as it The Census Bureau does not share infor- pronouncement not on a political one. happen. However, with this bipartisan exoner- is an incredible job creator and helps keep our mation about a specific business, household or Third, the mileage created by the impasse to ation, Trump will go down to US history as the communities safe and healthy. individual. It combines information to share the American people has somehow solidified the third seating President to have been impeached As co-chair of the county’s Census efforts overall trends in a community, according to idea that there must be a fair impeachment trial. by Congress. Unlike other impeachment trials, this year, I can tell you that our Office of Com- the OCA. The American people need however to heed the however, Trump impeachment came at a time munity Affairs (OCA) is starting to conduct Since there may be some fear in our im- public pronouncement of US Chief Justice John that there is a forthcoming presidential elec- extensive outreach to highlight the importance migrant communities that participating in the Roberts stating that the “American people are tions in ten months. A bipartisan exoneration of the Census and why each resident needs to be Census will compromise their privacy, it is taking impeachment for granted.” They need of Trump will definitely affect the outcome of counted. especially important this year that faith leaders to be proactive in processing the information the November Presidential elections and gives If your community is undercounted, low-in- and churches play a key role in this effort. After and not be clouded by lies, misinformation and the Democratic presidential standard bearer a come areas would lose federal funding for all, about a third or 250,000 individuals living misrepresentations being circulated in the social competitive edge. textbooks, school supplies and food for students, in the county are foreign born. media. Apparently, Roberts is saying that we Retired Professor Angelito Roldan from which aid children in meeting academic stan- Also, about 1 million young children in need to be informed as citizens of the United Southern California thinks that with or without dards, according to the OCA. the United States were not counted in the last States and must defend our democratic princi- witnesses, the Senate trial is a sham. On the con- The county would also lose federal Section Census – the highest of any age group, according ples by upholding the US Constitution. trary, vocational Instructor Ruel Manipis from 8 housing vouchers, a critical tool used to boost to the Bureau. With the latest move of Pelosi, will it change San Jose, CA thinks that with witnesses in the the production of affordable housing and to pro- We can all make a difference in the places the collaboration going on with McConnell and trial, it will yield a fair trial to the satisfaction of vide rental assistance for low-income residents. we live, work and worship. the President as regards to how to proceed with all regardless of the outcome. Most residents will get an invitation to re- Why? Because everyone counts. the trial? Again I would say that it’s disturbing Whatever happens, however, Trump claims spond online to the 2020 Census starting March David J. Canepa serves on the San Mateo to note that the person being impeached is dic- 12. Some households will also receive paper County Board of Supervisors. tating on the terms of the trial. McConnell pub- ■ TO PAGE A7

of public order, safety, and security. He said the PerryScope project is expected to reduce crime rate by 15% and increase response rate of law enforcers and responders by 25%. These include police and fire The Opinions expressed by our writers and personnel that act during natural and human-in- contributors do not in any way reflect the opinion How safe is the duced emergencies. of the management of Fortune News Media Inc. So, what’s the problem then? Several countries – U.S., Japan, Taiwan, Fortune News Media Inc. ‘Safe Philippines’ and Australia -- have banned public procure- Publisher ment of equipment from Huawei or have re- jected it from developing their information and Harvey Barkin project? communications technology infrastructure due Editor-in-Chief to “rising security concerns.” PERRY DIAZ Edwina Aniag Backdoors Vice President for Marketing and Operations A recent Bloomberg report revealed that European telecommunications company Voda- Gary De Guzman MBROILED in controversy, the Safe the surveillance project since 2018 when then Vice President for Community Relations Philippines project is facing strong Senate President Ralph Recto filed a resolution fone had troubles with “hidden backdoors in the opposition in the Philippine Senate to probe the surveillance system project, cit- software” that could have spelled out a security E issue, giving Huawei “unauthorized access to due to negative reports about the contractor’s ing hacking and espionage allegations against Geoffrey Julian [Vodafone’s] fixed-line network in Italy” back in Creative and Production Manager ties with China. Allegations are that the Safe Huawei. However, nothing came out of that Philippines project would allow China to spy investigation. 2011 and 2012. on the Philippines and pose national security Recently, Sen. Leila de Lima filed Senate According to the report, “a backdoor is Elpidio Estioko risk. Resolution No. 275 to formally call for a Senate vulnerability in a device or software that could Atty. Crispin Lozano Safe Philippines is a 12,000-camera inquiry on the Safe Philippines project, claim- allow access to a system by a third party.” It is Dr. Philip Chua closed-circuit television (CCTV) system to be ing that the project is an opportunity for China a means of bypassing the security mechanisms of a computer system to access its data. Western Ben Lou / Perry Diaz installed in the cities of Quezon, Marikina, to spy on Filipinos. She said Filipinos’ right to Parañaque, Pasig, San Juan, Valenzuela, and privacy requires a Senate inquiry into how in- nations like the US are worried that it might be Federico Espiritu in the interest of Huawei – and by extension, Columnists Davao. The project is a partnership between the formation will be collected by the Chinese firms Department of the Interior and Local Govern- behind the project. the Chinese government – to use backdoors ment (DILG) and China International Telecom- “Granting a country whose global reputation to collect intelligence on countries where their Macon Ramos-Araneta munication Construction Corporation (CITCC) for its forceful espionage activities has raised equipment is used. The intelligence collected Corina Oliquino and Huawei. CITCC will undertake the project worldwide concern, the opportunity to create a may then be given to China, which can be used commercially or politically. Daniel Llanto while Huawei will supply the equipment. The surveillance system in our country should raise Further, the report said: ”Although it has Correspondents project will cost P20.31 billion, of which P1.2 a red flag for our policymakers to ensure that billion will be shouldered by the Philippine none of our national interests are compromised been clarified that the problems back then were government, while the rest will be paid through by such agreements, particularly our national se- solved, some people involved in the security a soft loan from China Eximbank. curity,” De Lima said in a dispatch she sent from discussions, according to Bloomberg, revealed that problems remained. In fact, they said that @FilAmNewspaper CITCC is an affiliate of state-owned China her jail cell in Camp Crame. Telecom, one of the firms in Mislatel Consor- However, Interior Secretary Eduardo Año problems were even present outside Italy, in countries like the United Kingdom, Germany, FilAm Star is published weekly by Fortune News Media Inc. tium, soon to become the country’s third tele- had assured the project will be handled by Fil- Spain, and Portugal.” www.filamstar.com communication player. The project is supposed ipinos. “They provide the equipment, and after to start this year and will be completed by late providing the equipment, we’ll take care of this. Huawei had denied any connection to 2021 or early 2022. There will be no adviser, there will be no Chi- China, saying that it is owned by its employ- Headquarters: 1028 Mission St., 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103; nese technician, all Filipino,” he said. Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 Red flags According to Año, the Safe Philippines Email: [email protected] But senators have raised red flags over project will enable a more efficient management ■ TO PAGE A7 January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star A7

Taal.... From Page A1 Rescue.... From Page A1

Phivolcs Supervising Science Research Spe- o wala nang smog eh malinis na,” Antiporda Labor Sec. Silvestre Bello III also announced would take place “once the plans for repatriation cialist Winchelle Sevilla said during the Taal Volca- stressed. “Malalaman lang na pumasok sa katawan the mandatory repatriation of all Filipinos based have been outlined.” no interagency coordination meeting in Tagaytay: kapag sinumpong na lalo na ‘yung may mga respi- in the two countries, as well as Lebanon. Some This means that all OFWs willing to return “Yung volcanic tsunami po, pwede po natin i-ex- ratory problems tulad ng hika.” 1,000 OFWs in Lebanon were said to be seeking home will have to travel by land to the UAE, or pect sa panahon na mag-intensify pa po lalo ‘yung Antiporda specifically cited fine PM 2.5, an air repatriation to the Philippines, according to the possibly Qatar. pinapakita ng Taal ngayon sa alert level 5.” pollutant he called “alikabok” that is invisible to Philippine Overseas Employment Administra- With Iran vowing to retaliate, the OFWs Taal Volcano started to spew heavy ash over the naked eye. He then differentiated PM 2.5 from tion. based in the adjoining states of Iran and Iraq nearby areas on January 10 which impaired the PM10 which is larger and more visible. This week, the first batch of 14 OFWs were were considered to be in extreme danger, spur- otherwise good air-quality of the affected Metro According to him, while some areas that scheduled to arrive on January 13, Defense Sec. ring the Duterte administration to take steps to Manila cities. The “phreatic” eruption shot up into have experienced rain now have better air quality Delfin Lorenzana said. forcibly repatriate the OFWs. the air as high as 50,000 feet so that the ash-fall because the volcanic particles or ash from Taal Bello, however, retracted his statement when However, after Iran’s retaliation was limited reached as far as the mountain town of Antipolo. have already fallen to the ground problems could the danger was seen to pass. OFWs in Lebanon to a missile attack on an Iraqi base housing US According to the Department of Environment still arise. and Iran could stay put but those based in Iraq military personnel, then with the Islamic nation and Natural Resources (DENR), the amount of “Maaaring umakyat ulit ito at malanghap ng were still under orders to return home. expressing it was not seeking war, the tensions in particulate matter (PM) 10 or dust in layman’s tao,” Antiporda said. “I-expect natin na magiging Labor Undersec. Bernard Olalia, who also the region were eased. terms in the National Capital Region has increased worse ang situation when it comes to the ash na headed for the Middle East last week, said that While the situation has not totally cooled to levels that may pose danger to people’s health ‘yan dahil ‘pag natuyo ‘yan at dinaanan ng sa- while the OFWs were “sanay na sa gulo,” some down, Cimatu also advised Filipinos in Qatar in terms of respiratory problems such as asthma, sakyan o mabugahan ng hangin, babalik ‘yan sa of the estimated 33,000 OFWs in Lebanon were to avoid US bases, as these remained possible bronchitis and emphysema. air.” now willing to fly home. targets for attack. On the list of affected cities presented by So, he advised the public to continue moni- The government will assume the cost of re- For now, the government has adopted a wait- DENR, the highest amount of PM10 was recorded toring updates on Taal’s eruption and take precau- turning the Filipino workers back to Manila, with and-see attitude where the repatriation of OFWs on Monday morning in Mandaluyong City at 118 tionary measures. backing from the country’s three major airlines in the Middle East is concerned. The largest which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. “We still need to be careful at gamitin ang -- Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and Air Asia number of Filipinos in the region are based in It was followed by Las Piñas City at 108 and recommended face mask para masiguro ang kalig- -- offering to shoulder their plane fare for free. Saudi Arabia and the Emirates, with the latter Taguig City at 104, both also considered unhealthy tasan,” he said. In addition, Air Asia would further provide considered a potential target for Iranian attacks for sensitive groups. The entire province of Batangas has been free plane tickets to OFWs based outside Metro in the event the situation again deteriorates. Also included in the list are Makati City at 63 placed under a state of calamity. This declaration Manila where the budget airline maintains regu- To all the OFWs in the Mideast, Cimatu said (moderate/fair), Paranaque City at 62 (moderate/ was announced through a special session of the lar flights. they should “always be prepared in whatever con- fair), Pasig City at 55 (moderate/fair), Malabon Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Batangas “in view A Department of National Defense spokes- tingency measures that we will be doing.” City (good) and San Juan City. of the massive damage that the eruption of Taal man said that the return of Iraq-based OFWs “is Also at risk are the thousands of OFWs based DENR Undersec. Benny Antiporda warned Volcano has brought to the province.” still mandatory.” in Israel, which Iran considers its primary enemy the public against the hazard posed by volcanic Phivolcs said if worse comes to worst, the The airlines speaking through the Civil in the region. Iran does not recognize the Jewish particles. Health experts also advised the public to eruption of Taal Volcano may last for months Aviation Authority of the Philippines said the free state and past leaders have vowed to wipe Israel take precautionary measures by wearing appro- or even years. It said the volcano in Batangas flights from Dubai in the United Arab Emirates off the face of the earth. priate face masks and goggles and also to stay province could erupt several times over a span indoors. of months or years after spewing ash that covered “Hindi porke’t clear na ang visual sa kalye parts of Luzon. Visa.... From Page A1

tourists to present their roundtrip tickets showing VUA regulations. the length of their stay and the date of their depar- In 2017, former DoJ secretary Vitaliano Agu- De Lima...From Page A1 ture from the Philippine to be issued a visa. irre II issued the VUA granting special privileges In a report by The Philippine Star, foreigners for Chinese nationals, with the program stemming De Lima issued this statement as the Chinese and exercises which would be the third official with VUA are only allowed to stay in the country from an executive order issued by former Presi- Coast Guard embarked on a goodwill visit to the meeting of the Joint Coast Guard Committee for a non-extendible period of 30 days. Tourists dent Corazon Aquino with the aim of promoting Philippines. (JCGC) with the PCG. would also have to reveal their itinerary while the country’s tourism. But Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Chief Activities for the JCGC meeting include a they are in the country and show proof of booked The changes will also lead to the Bureau of Admiral Joel Garcia denied that the visit of the cross deck visit, rescue and firefighting exercises, a accommodations and billing receipts. Immigration (BI) issuing “landing visas” that allow Chinese Coast Guard is a “red carpet treatment,” “table top” exercise, discussions and sports games. “Aside from the roundtrip ticket, if they are travelers to receive their visa once they arrive at citing “diplomatic reciprocity” between the two “We believe that the visit will be a very good coming in as tourists they must have booked the airport. countries. opportunity for both sides to demonstrate good- accommodations for every stop in their itin- BI barred the entry of 160 foreign sex offend- De Lima shot back that the country’s deal- will, deepen mutual understanding and trust as erary. The tour operator must be, of course, ers in PH in 2019 ings with China have always been under the guise well as enhance friendship and cooperation,” the accredited. The tour operator must provide all In another report by The Philippine Daily In- of “’diplomatic reciprocity’ that allowed them to Chinese embassy said. the details where they will be staying, proof of quirer, BI Port Operations Division Chief Grifton impose upon our territorial rights in the West Garcia said it was his Chinese counterparts accommodations,” Perete said, noting Chinese Medina in a report to Immigration Commissioner Philippine Sea.” that requested the visit and meeting. It is a man- nationals issued a VUA will not be allowed to Jaime Morente, said at least 160 foreign-registered “There is nothing closely diplomatic nor ifestation of China’s effort to speak with the PCG convert the nature of their visa into a work or sex offenders (RSOs) were intercepted at different reciprocal in a relationship between two countries “once and for all,” Garcia told reporters. resident’s visa. international airports in the country. where one takes over the other country’s jobs, re- De Lima, one of Duterte’s staunchest critics, Perete insisted the move is not about singling The number is slightly higher than the 145 sex sources and gets the upper hand when it comes to said that while the government invokes sovereign- out Chinese tourists but “to make sure that the offenders intercepted in 2018. economic agreements,” she said, touching on the ty “in the face of increasing international condem- Visa Upon Arrival facility would not be abused. We According to the report, RSO refers to a “for- other issues relating to the wave of Chinese work- nation against the Duterte regime’s abuses” it still just put in more restrictions specifically because eigner previously convicted of a sex crime in his ers in the Philippines and the allegedly one-sided “allows China’s brazen intrusion behind the veil of of complaints that many are using that facility to country, who has finished serving his sentence or economic agreements forged by President Duterte ‘friendly, diplomatic ties’.” obtain employment in the Philippines.” is out on parole or probation.” with China. “This, however, does not come as a surprise “Some have used that facility to obtain em- Of the 160 RSOs intercepted in last year, 128 “Despite Garcia’s denial, it is a red carpet that anymore,” she said. “They are selling our sover- ployment, later on whether it is POGO or any other were Americans, 11 were British nationals, six were will be rolled out this week for the primary arm of eignty to their Chinese benefactors, who never and kind of employment. The complaint on the visa: Australians, four were Chinese, and two were from China’s intrusion and intimidation in the WPS – will never have the interests of the Philippines and some would get a Visa Upon Arrival and then con- New Zealand. the Chinese Coast Guard,” she added. the Filipino people in their list of priorities.” vert it into another visa and then get more permits The BI has also denied the entries of a Cam- After the “friendly visit,” the Chinese Coast She then called on the Filipino people to fight to be employed in POGO or any other businesses,” eroonian, a Canadian, a German, a Guatemalan, Guard would reportedly hold joint exercises with for the country. “Panahon na upang ipaglaban he added, following reports revealing several Chi- an Irish, a Korean, a Malaysian, a Russian and a their Philippine counterpart. natin ang ating sarili, ang ating mga (kalayaan, nese nationals are illegally working in POGOs and Taiwanese national to the Philippines for being The Philippine Coast Guard officially wel- kaligtasan at kasarinlan) laban sa mga banyagang as construction workers, sex offenders, with all the 160 immediately turned comed China Coast Guard commandant Gen. sasakop sa teritoryo, ekonomiya at pamahalaan The DoJ is also considering the possibility back and booked on the first available flight to Wang Zhongcai and his delegation at Pier 15 of natin,” she said. of including other nationalities under the stricter their port of origin. Manila South Harbor. Manila-based journalists “But to accomplish this, we have to under- were then given an opportunity to tour China stand that the most dangerous are the charismatic Coast Guard vessel No. 5204. enemies from within,” she added. Pompeo.... From Page A1 This is the first time a China Coast Guard ship The Philippines and China are locked in a is officially visiting the Philippines, according to a long-standing maritime dispute over the South Chinese electronic products and cutting in half accord will also give US companies better access statement from the Chinese embassy in Manila. China Sea with Beijing claiming nearly the en- those imposed on September 1 on $120 billion to the Chinese market for financial services and Zhongcai and the crew of the CCG 5204 will tire South China Sea, including parts of the West worth of products. require China to buy more US products. be in Manila until January 17 for a series of talks Philippine Sea. The White House has said the agreement “We will do our part in the government. We will includes improvements on Beijing’s require- keep ramping up our enforcement,” Pompeo said. ments that foreign companies transfer technolo- “But defending freedom and national secu- Bongbong’s.... From Page A1 gy -- which the United States say is a pretext for rity isn’t just the government’s job. It’s one for rampant intellectual theft. each and every citizen,” he told the tech compa- nangyari noong panahon ng diktadurya kung saan “In September, the Sandiganbayan affirmed The Trump administration says that the nies. (AFP) libu-libong Pilipino ang pinatay at pinahirapan at the dismissal of an ill-gotten wealth case against bilyung-bilyong piso mula sa kaban ng bayan ang the heirs of Luis Yulo, identified as one of Marcos’ nakulimbat,” Tañada added. cronies and the family’s YKR Corporation involv- As I See It... From Page A6 In a report by GMA News, Tañada urged the ing Busuanga Properties in Palawan — the proper- public to speak up against Marcos’ “alleged at- ty that is the subject of the still pending ill-gotten he is ready and doesn’t care because he believes ment, now at 56%, and if the trial continues, the tempt to expunge the truth and erase the memory wealth case numbered Civil Case 0024 against the he will be re-elected with the economy at its impeachment vote will go up till the elections. of their sins to the country,” with a World Bank- late President Ferdinand Marcos and his cronies,” highest with 76% performance indicating the Is Pelosi justified in sending the two ar- UN Office study claiming Ferdinand Marcos is the GMA News report reads. economy is very strong and… with a strong ticles of impeachment to the Senate without “estimated to have siphoned off between $5 and The Sandiganbayan also dismissed in October economy, and with an incumbent candidate as being assured of fair trial? Maybe… if the signs $10 billion.” a PHP1.052-billion ill-gotten wealth case against he is, there’s no reason he will lose. mentioned above will likely happen and those “We must all side with and fight for the truth. Bienvenido Tantoco, Sr. and the Marcos couple That, in itself, is a very strong argument for involved will truly defend the Constitution. Or, We must not let the lies being propagated by the in relation with the Tantoco clan’s 11 real estate Trump, but people are claiming that’s only for the maybe not… if the legislators acting as jurors Marcoses to prevail,” he said. properties located in the Philippines, Hawaii and rich 1% of the population and not benefitting the will be partial and will be trying the case along In another report by GMA News, Marcos on Rome, shares of stocks in 19 companies, cash on middle class. Besides, we don’t know yet what party lines, not as legislators! January 10 demanded the revision of history text- hand and in bank, jewelry, notes, loans, mortgag- will happen between now and November. People So what now? The American people will be books, claiming his family’s “recent court victories” es receivable, motor vehicles and three Cessna are claiming that’s only for the rich 1% of the waiting, maintaining the wait and see stance as proved decades-old criminal accusations hurled aircraft. population and not benefitting the middle class. things develop from here on! against them were false. In the same month, the Sandiganbayan Should the new information collaborating im- (Elpidio R. Estioko was a veteran journalist “What has been proven wrong is essentially Fourth Division also junked a PHP267-million peachment and trial to go on as fair as possible, in the Philippines and a multi-awarded journal- what they continue to contend in the textbooks ill-gotten case against former President Marcos, slowly… by the time the election comes, the Presi- ist here in the US. For feedbacks, comments… of our children. Essentially you are teaching the his wife and their croonies Fe Roa Gimenez and dent should have lost his credibility. This is being please email the author @ estiokoelpidio@ children lies,” Marcos said at a news forum in her husband, Ignacio Gimenez, Vilma Bautista shown by the people moving towards impeach- gmail.com. Manila. and her husband, Gregorio, among others, due to “’Yung kanilang sinasabi na ninakaw namin, insufficiency of evidence. na ginawa namin, hindi lahat totoo. Pa’no ko Robredo slams Bongbong’s 20-page comic Perryscope... From Page A6 nasasabi ‘yun? ‘Yan ang desisyon ng korte. There book was no evidence,” he said, claiming that the cases In another report by GMA News, during the ees. However, its alleged ties with the Chinese could compromise the Safe Philippines project against his family dragged for years because of 2016 elections, then-administration vice-presiden- government is a matter that still worries the U.S. from exposing the national security of the coun- “propaganda.” tial candidate Leni Robredo criticized then-senator and other countries in the West. try and the privacy of the Filipino people from Marcos is referring to the dismissal of a Bongbong Marcos and rival’s “supposed attempt But its founder, Ren Zhengfei, was a former “Big Brother” intrusion? In other words, what PHP200-billion forfeiture case against their family to revise history” by releasing a comic book for his officer in the People’s Liberation Army. Can guarantees do Filipinos have that the Chinese due to lack of evidence. campaign. Huawei be coerced or swayed by the powers- government isn’t monitoring their moves? It is Last month’s decision is the fifth time in five “Nalulungkot tayo na ang efforts ni Sen. that-be in China? a known fact that digital facial recognition is an months that the Marcos family won an ill-gotten Bongbong ay ang pagbura sa kasaysayan ng mga In December 2018, Huawei’s chief financial integral part of CCTV. That means that once your wealth-related case filed by the government, with nagawang karumal dumal na pangyayari sa Martial officer was ordered arrested by a New York court image is captured in the CCTV data base, people’s the anti-graft court’s Special Fourth Division ruled Law,” Robredo said, noting the comic book, re- for alleged violation of sanctions in Iran. It led movements are monitored and recorded. against government prosecutors for their “fail- leased last 2015 supposedly chronicled the abuses of the U.S. to ask a Canadian court to extradite her. And while the Safe Philippines project ure... to prove its allegations by preponderance of American soldiers against the Marcos family during is a means of bypassing the security mechanisms would reduce crime rate by 15% and increase evidence” on its 58-page decision. their exile in Hawaii, was inaccurate in depicting of a computer system to access its data. response rate of law enforcers and responders In August, the anti-graft court also junked what happened during the Martial Law years. by 25%, it deprives the citizens of 100% of their a PHP102-billion ill-gotten wealth case against “Ang comics na kumakalat na galing umano Big Brother privacy. Ultimately, the question is: How safe is Ferdinand Marcos, wife Imelda and 11 of their sa Marcos camp ay isang ebidensiya na pagbaba- The question is: With all the bad press Hua- the Safe Philippines project? (PerryDiaz@gmil. cronies due to the prosecution’s failure to present go ng ating nakaraan at hindi pag-amin sa mga wei has been getting, are there other issues that com) evidence. kasalanang nagawa,” she added. A8 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 Business &

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MI5 dismisses UK-US relation- Nissan denies reported ship fears over Huawei: FT plans to split with Renault THE head of Britain’s MI5 security service and intelligence sharing relationship with the US NISSAN is “in no way” planning to end its has dismissed suggestions UK-US intelligence and that will continue.” partnership with Renault, the Japanese auto sharing could be damaged if Chinese telecoms The spokesman confirmed that British and giant insisted on Tuesday after a report suggested giant Huawei develops Britain’s 5G network, the US “national security officials” were holding a a divorce was possible in the wake of the Carlos Financial Times reported Monday. meeting Monday in London following a report Ghosn scandal. Prime Minister Boris Johnson is under in- that the talks were a last-ditch bid by Washington Britain’s Financial Times, citing “several tense pressure from US President Donald Trump to stop Huawei playing a role. people with knowledge of the matter”, said on to prevent Huawei from playing a role in building Fifth-generation (5G) mobile communica- Monday that senior executives at the scandal-hit Britain’s 5G telecoms network on grounds of tions are the next milestone in the digital revo- firm were speeding up work on secret plans for a security. lution, bringing near-instantaneous connectivity potential parting of ways with France’s Renault. Asked in an interview with the FT if the in- and vast data capacity. But in a statement, Nissan firmly denied the telligence-sharing relationship could be harmed, They will enable the widespread adoption claims. “Nissan is in no way considering dissolv- MI5 director general Andrew Parker said: “I’ve no of futuristic technologies such as artificial intel- ing the alliance,” the statement said. reason today to think that. ligence and automated cars and factories -- ad- “The alliance is the source of Nissan’s com- “Perhaps the thing that needs more focus vances Beijing is desperate to lead. petitiveness,” the firm said, adding that it will and more discussion is how do we get to a future Huawei’s status as a major world supplier look to continue delivering “win-win results for where there’s a wider range of competition... of the backbone equipment for telecoms systems all member companies”. than defaulting to a yes or no about Chinese gives China an inside track -- but it has also The partnership, which also includes Japan’s French TV station CNEWS. technology,” added Parker, who is standing attracted suspicions. Mitsubishi Motors, has been troubled since the He said it aimed to “destabilise the group, down in April. Various countries have raised security con- shock arrest of its former chief Ghosn on charges cause trouble at a moment when, on the contrary, Responding to the interview, Johnson’s cerns about Huawei technology, with the United of financial misconduct. we are in the process of rehabilitating the alliance spokesman said: “When a decision has been States and Australia barring the firm from partici- Ghosn, who last month jumped bail in Japan between Renault and Nissan, which had indeed made we will provide an update to parliament. pating in their 5G networks and others hesitating and fled to Lebanon, claims the charges against gone through a rough patch”. “We have a close and longstanding security to let it in. (AFP) him were cooked up by disgruntled Nissan exec- The 20-year partnership between Nissan and utives hoping to block his plans to more closely Renault, whose alliance is based on cross-share- integrate the automaker with Renault. holdings without a joint structure, has been badly In a news conference in Lebanon, he claimed shaken by the Ghosn scandal. the alliance was now on the rocks and directionless. At the close on the Tokyo market, Nissan The alliance’s new chief, Jean-Dominique dropped 2.96 percent to 618 yen despite the firm Senard, earlier hit back at the reports of a planned company denial. Shares in Renault slumped 2.82 split, telling Belgian daily L’Echo the claims had “no percent on Monday, but were stable in Tuesday connection to the current situation of the alliance”. morning trading. “The Renault-Nissan alliance is not dead! Senard said the alliance was “nowhere near” Soon we will show you why,” he said in an inter- the point of collapse and insisted its leaders were view published Tuesday. busy “recreating its original spirit” and planning “I ask myself, where does this sort of infor- future investments. mation come from? I am not sure it comes from a A source close to Nissan told AFP that the place of goodwill.” leaks probably came from “a few disgruntled Meanwhile in Paris, French Economy souls” inside the company who wanted to “vent Minister Bruno Le Maire dismissed the report as their frustration”, adding that rebuilding trust “malicious information” in an interview on the between the two firms “will take time”. (AFP) Protests and outrage as Siemens backs Aussie mine project ENVIRONMENTAL activists across the world mine that’s endangering the 2C target” laid out in slammed German engineering conglomerate Sie- the Paris climate deal, she said. mens on Monday after it decided to carry on with Kaeser announced on Sunday evening that a controversial coal mine project in Australia. Siemens would “fulfil their contractual obliga- After holding talks with environmentalists tions” on the project. in Berlin last week, CEO Joe Kaeser said Sunday “While I do have a lot of empathy for that Siemens would go ahead with plans to pro- environmental matters, I do need to balance vide rail infrastructure for the Carmichael mine different interests of different stakeholders,” in Queensland. he said. On Monday, activists from the Fridays for Future movement responded by protesting ‘No room for coal’ outside the company’s offices in 15 German cities, Neubauer accused companies involved in including Berlin, Hamburg and Munich. financing fossil fuels of using “creative PR” to In a statement on their website, Fridays for burnish their green credentials. Future said Siemens’ decision was “catastrophic”, “Some companies around the world have and that the mine “threatens worldwide efforts to now got a sense of what it means when the cli- keep global warming under 1.5 degrees Celsius.” mate movement turns against you,” she said. The open-cut Carmichael mine is set to be- ‘Destroy’ reputation come operational next year and produce up to 27 Australian climate activist Varsha Yajman, million tonnes of coal annually. 17, told AFP that the decision would “destroy” Adani spent years trying to secure private Siemens’ reputation. finance for the coal mine before announcing in “It is time for Kaeser to realise the conse- 2018 it was self-financing a trimmed-down, $2 quences of his actions and give us the sustainable billion version of the project. future we deserve.” Supporters say the mine will bring hundreds Siemens, which aims to be carbon neutral by of much-needed jobs to rural Queensland in 2030, signed a contract in December to provide eastern Australia. rail signalling services for the Carmichael project. But conservationists say the project threat- The proposed mine, owned by India’s Adani ens local vulnerable species and notes that the group, has long been controversial, but anger over coal will have to be shipped from a port near the the multi-billion-euro project has been fanned by already damaged Great Barrier Reef. Australia’s catastrophic bushfire season. Much of the coal from the mine will be Amid growing calls for Siemens to quit the burned in India, a country with some of the project, Kaeser met with leading Fridays for Fu- world’s highest levels of air pollution. ture activist Luisa Neubauer in Berlin on Friday The United Nations says emissions must and claimed he was “on the same side” as envi- decline more than 7.5 percent annually in order ronmentalists. to hit the 1.5C temperature goal laid out in the On Saturday, Sweden’s top climate activist Paris deal. Greta Thunberg also urged Kaeser to make what Andrew Grant, head analyst at the Carbon she said was “the only right decision”. Tracker think tank, told AFP that coal was facing Neubauer told AFP Monday that Siemens’ an oversupply crisis, with known reserves con- decision was “disastrous”. taining enough fuel for the next 130 years. “We’re not talking just about one provider of “If we are serious about achieving our goals technical materials. We’re talking about a stra- under Paris then there’s just no room for new tegic decision by Siemens to contribute to a coal coal,” he said. (AFP) January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star A9 World Iran grants Canada investigators access to downed plane News

CANADIAN investigators flying to Tehran on Fifty-seven of the victims were Canadian. Queen grants Harry and Meghan Monday will access the wreckage and black boxes from a Ukranian jetliner downed by a missile London talks strike last week, officials said. Earlier, Canada’s foreign minister announced ‘transition period’ in Canada Harry for making the announcement without winning “We don’t fully know what the scope of our that a Canadian-led group of nations that lost QUEEN Elizabeth II on Monday allowed her the queen’s consent and had left the meeting early. investigation will be,” Transportation Safety citizens would press Iran for an open and trans- grandson Prince Harry and his wife Meghan Board (TSB) chair Kathy Fox told a press confer- to split their time between Canada and Britain parent investigation at a meeting in London on Struggles with spotlight ence. Thursday. during a “transition period” in which the family will figure out how to deal with their shock resig- Debates over Harry and Meghan’s future However, she added, “there have been early “We have convened the first in-person nation from front-line royal duties. have divided British public opinion and dominat- signs that Iran is allowing the TSB to play a more meeting of the International Coordination and The monarch said she held “very construc- ed newspaper front pages for days. active role than is normally permitted.” Response Group on Thursday at Canada House in tive” talks between Harry and his older brother A YouGov poll suggested 46 percent of re- Two Canadian investigators were to land in London,” Francois-Philippe Champagne said in a Prince William and their father Prince Charles spondents supported their decision. Tehran within hours, followed by two more in the Twitter message. aimed at charting a course through the fallout of Yet 57 percent also thought they treated the coming days or weeks. In their meeting, foreign ministers from the bombshell announcement. queen unfairly. They have been invited by Iran, which is Canada, Ukraine, Sweden, Afghanistan and Meghan reportedly joined the conversation Harry and William put up a rare united front leading the crash probe, to participate in the Britain will seek to maintain pressure on Iran for by phone from Canada after abruptly jetting out as the talks began by issuing a joint statement de- downloading and analysis of the aircraft’s cockpit full access, as well as renew calls for transparency of Britain last week. nouncing a report in The Times that claimed the voice and data recorders. and accountability. Their effective resignation on Wednesday couple felt “pushed away from the royal family” They will also be allowed to visit the crash The group will also discuss seeking compen- followed a year filled with rumours of infighting by William’s “’bullying attitude”. site and the wreckage of the plane that is being sation for the families of the victims. between the brothers and reports of Meghan -- a William and Harry formed a close bond reassembled in a nearby hanger. Long-standing US-Iran tensions have soared biracial American actress with a strong social me- following their mother Diana’s death in Paris car “We do know what has happened. What we since January 3 when missiles fired from a US dia presence -- feeling unwelcome in the highly crash in 1997. But Harry admitted last month they don’t know is why it happened,” Fox commented drone killed a top Iranian commander, Qasem traditional and structured royal family. had drifted apart and were now on different paths. before listing off questions surrounding the crash Soleimani, near Baghdad’s airport. “My family and I are entirely supportive of “For brothers who care so deeply about the that still need to be answered. Iran responded with a barrage of missiles at Harry and Meghan’s desire to create a new life issues surrounding mental health, the use of inflam- These include whether the missile strike was two US bases in Iraq, inflicting no casualties in as a young family,” the 93-year-old queen said in matory language in this way is offensive and poten- intentional or not, and why the air space was what was seen as an attempt to prevent a spiral of a statement after the first day of meetings at her tially harmful,” they said in their joint statement. open amid heightened tensions in the region. escalation. Sandringham estate in eastern England. Harry has been open about his mental health issues in coming to terms with his mother’s death The Ukraine International Airlines Boeing But hours later, an Iranian Revolutionary when he was just 12. 737 was shot down by a missile shortly after tak- Guard unit mistakenly shot down the Ukrainian ‘No public funds’ The couple admitted in October to strug- ing off from Tehran before dawn last Wednesday, passenger jet, in what Iranian President Hassan Harry and Meghan said they wanted to gling with the spotlight following their wedding killing all 176 passengers and crew on board Rouhani called a “human error.” (AFP) “carve out a progressive new role within this in- stitution” -- a statement that some read as a slight at Windsor Castle in May 2018 and their son at the way the royal family has been run under Archie’s birth 12 months later. Pope Francis repeats support for celibacy after Benedict outburst Britain’s beloved monarch. The queen frankly admitted that Harry and Existential crisis POPE FRANCIS on Monday repeated his written with arch-conservative Cardinal Rob- Meghan’s decision was not welcome news. Meghan likes to vacation in Canada and is support for celibacy after his predecessor pope ert Sarah, extracts of which were published by “Although we would have preferred them to currently there with Archie. Benedict XVI urged him not to open the Catho- France’s Le Figaro. remain full-time working members of the royal But the Daily Mail said “her real dream” was lic priesthood up to married men, in a plea that “I cannot keep silent!” Benedict wrote in the family, we respect and understand their wish to to settle alongside other celebrities in Los Angeles stunned Vatican experts. book, which follows an extraordinary meeting of live a more independent life as a family while -- “but not while President Donald Trump is in “The pope’s position on celibacy is well bishops from the Amazon at the Vatican last year remaining a valued part of my family,” she said. charge”, it added. known,” the head of the Vatican’s press centre, that recommended the ordination of married The monarch stressed the couple told her Their official plan is to continue to “fully Matteo Bruni, told journalists at the Vatican on men in certain circumstances. “they do not want to be reliant on public funds” support” the queen and honour their duties to the Monday, citing Francis on his return from a trip The pope emeritus, 92, and Cardinal Sarah but did not address the issue of whether they Commonwealth and their patronages. to Panama in January 2019. from Guinea weighed in on the controversial would keep their royal titles. But they want to make 2020 a transition year “I remember something that Pope Paul VI question of whether or not to allow “viri probati” Harry and Meghan are formally known as to carve out their new role and launch their new said: ‘I’d rather give my life than change the law -- married “men of proven virtue” -- to join the the Duke and Duchess of Sussex. Five percent of Sussex Royal charitable entity and seek to raise on celibacy’,” Bruni quoted the pope as having priesthood. their income comes from public funds. their own sources of income. said. Francis is currently considering allowing it The rest comes from Prince Charles’ Duchy They also want to keep their newly-renovated The pope also said “Personally I think that in remote locations, such as the Amazon, where of Cornwall heredity private estate. It dates back Frogmore Cottage home on the queen’s Windsor celibacy is a gift to the Church. Secondly, I don’t communities seldom have Mass due to a lack of to 1337 and has officially reported assets worth Castle estate as their British base. think optional celibacy should be allowed. No.” priests, and is expected to publish his decision in £1.1 billion ($1.4 billion, 1.3 billion euros). Some royal commentators said it was in ev- At the time, the pope nevertheless conceded the coming weeks. The queen said there were still “complex eryone’s interests to quickly settle what was fast “some possibilities for far flung places”, such as Benedict, who was the first pontiff to resign matters” for the family to trash out. becoming an existential crisis that questioned the Pacific islands or the Amazon where “there is a in almost 600 years, at first withdrew to a life “It has therefore been agreed that there will monarchy’s place in the modern world. pastoral necessity”. of quiet contemplation in the Vatican, but has be a period of transition in which the Sussexes The family is “falling apart and should try to The ex-pontiff Benedict, who retired in 2013, increasingly begun to speak out on key Catholic will spend time in Canada and the UK,” she said. put itself back together,” The Evening Standard issued his defence of clerical celibacy in a book issues. (AFP) The Daily Mail tabloid said Charles was furious at newspaper wrote. (AFP) A10 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star B1 Stellar

count.org. Organizations do not need to have 501c3 Puerto Rican and Filipino Diasporas status to participate. Events “Small, local community organizations often join forces for 2020 Census lack the resources that are culturally relevant when ferently, the contributions immigrants and commu- working on advocacy issues. The #WhyWeCount nities of color make in this country will be viewed campaign gives us turnkey resources and templates differently as well,” says Reverend Whittaker. Like that allow us to easily educate our community and many churches, libraries, and other community get them engaged in the 2020 Census,” says Ian spaces across New York City, Fort Washington Col- Jerome Kamus at the Pilipino Workers Center, legiate Church is offering its church as a technical a Southern California nonprofit that works with assistance center. domestic workers. #WhyWeCount campaign was recently se- Representing Collective Action for Puerto Rico, lected as one of 15 projects “Innovating the 2020 Rev. Dr. Damaris Whittaker of Fort Washington Census” at the annual day demo of The Opportu- Collegiate Church, Vice President of the Collegiate nity Project (TOP), a federal initiative of the U.S. Churches of New York, inspires her diverse congre- Census Bureau. NextDayBetter demonstrated how, gation and local community in Washington Heights using open data, their culturally-competent digital to participate in the 2020 Census. storytelling campaign can overcome participation “When you make yourself be counted, we are barriers and raise awareness about the importance saying we are more and we are not afraid. This is of the 2020 Census to Puerto Rican and Filipino how you turn a nation. When you see yourself dif- households. East Bay Regional Park District Board of

(LEFT) Puerto Rican Life and Business Coach Luis Baez urges participation in Census 2020. Directors appoints new ward 1 director (RIGHT) Filipino American and immigrant Professor E.J. David and his Filipino and Athabascan family in Anchorage, Alask (Photos: NextDayBetter) the independent Public Advocates Office at the California Public Utilities Commission. Her recent NEW YORK, - For the first time, community stories of #WhyWeCount online and offline. Our policy work has focused on environmental protec- organizations in New York and Florida are coming personal stories can educate others on how census tion, climate change, and wildfire prevention and together to ensure we find out exactly how many participation can shape our communities for the mitigation. Ms. Echols has a B.A. in Economics Puerto Ricans and Filipinos are, come Census Day next 10 years.” and Political Science from Yale and a J.D. from on April 1, 2020. The campaign launches as a pilot in New York, Stanford Law School. Historically, Puerto Ricans and Filipinos have Florida, and California with plans to expand this The Park District received 12 applications for been undercounted in past census efforts. This has year. NextDayBetter has helped build a coalition of the vacancy. An ad hoc board nominating commit- adversely affected how $1.5 trillion in federal fund- community-based organizations (CBOs) that serve tee interviewed all applicants and recommended ing has been spent, according to a new study from diaspora communities such as the New York Disas- four finalists to be considered for the vacant Ward the GW Institute of Public Policy. ter Interfaith Services (NYDIS), Pilipino Workers 1 seat. On January 7, 2020, the Board of Directors In New York and Florida, there are still Center, Damayan Migrant Workers Association, interviewed the four finalists and voted unani- hundreds of families living in temporary housing Filipino Young Leaders Program (FYLPro), the mously (6-0) to appoint Ms. Echols. since Hurricane Maria. Many undocumented and Lower East Side Girls Club; and faith-based leaders Elizabeth Echols “Each of the four finalists presented unique documented Filipino immigrants need healthcare that formed Collective Action for Puerto Rico in- and compelling qualifications for the position,” services and clinics for their aging Titos and Titas. cluding Middle Collegiate Church, Fort Washington OAKLAND, CA – East Bay Regional Park said EBRPD Board President Ayn Wieskamp. And in low-response areas, including the Bronx, Collegiate Church, and Union Seminary. District Board of Directors appointed Elizabeth “Ultimately, Elizabeth’s impressive public pol- parents and grandparents want public school fund- “Since Hurricane Maria and the summer of Echols of Berkeley as the Director of Ward 1 to icy career, environmental preservation experience, ing to reach their communities for the benefit of the protests against the Puerto Rico governor, the serve the remaining term left by incumbent Whit- and dedication to supporting recreational and next generation. diaspora has stepped up in solidarity, with mil- ney Dotson, who retired in December after 11 years educational opportunities for underserved youth Census Day is less than three months away. A lions joining in peaceful demonstrations. Filipino on the Park District Board. Ward 1 represents the in her community made her the best candidate for sense of urgency abounds. Complete Count Commissions have also been communities of Albany, Berkeley, El Cerrito, El the seat.” To mobilize these communities, NextDayBet- formed by advocacy groups in states like California, Sobrante, Kensington, part of Pinole, Richmond Ms. Echols will be sworn in at the January 21, ter, has launched #WhyWeCount, a storytelling emphasizing the need for collective action across and San Pablo. Regional Parks in Ward 1 include 2020 regular meeting of the Board of Directors. initiative to make their needs visible and combat diaspora communities,” says Jorge Fontanez, Head Brooks Island, Kennedy Grove, McLaughlin The East Bay Regional Park District is a sys- disinformation about the 2020 Census with house- of Partnerships at NextDayBetter. Eastshore, Miller/Knox, Point Isabel, Point Pinole, tem of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda holds who are unfamiliar with how census works #WhyWeCount offers free diaspora-relevant Sobrante Ridge, Tilden, and Wildcat Canyon. and Contra Costa counties east of San Francisco and may be vulnerable to fake news online and toolkits, educational story assets, and training to Ms. Echols has had an extensive career in Bay, established in 1934. The system comprises targeted mailers. empower CBOs to engage hard-to-count popula- public service, with over 20 years in public policy 121,000 acres in 73 parks including over1,250 According to NextDayBetter CEO, Ryan Leta- tions. Qualified organizations are encouraged to roles. Most recently, she was appointed by former miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, da, “We need to empower our communities to share learn more and request the toolkit at www.whywe- Governor Jerry Brown to serve as the Director of and nature learning. B2 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020

Iglesia ni Cristo/Church of Christ District of Northwest California holds Neighborhood Evangelical Mission. An afternoon of Fellowship and Video presentation at Veterans Memorial Recreation Center in San Bruno Food, refreshments and giveaways were provided.

San Mateo County Supervisor David J. Canepa discussing the upcoming Census 2020 recently on Baden Avenue in South San Francisco. Canepa is the Chair for Census 2020 in San Mateo County and is very passionate about getting a high participation rate for north San Mateo County. Happy 40th Birthday, Daly City Vice Mayor, Juslyn Manalo

Filipinx Mental Health Initiative-Solano, www.facebook.com/ fmhisolano , meets monthly to help reduce mental health stigma in the Filipino community in Solano County by providing early intervention through education and access to resources. To learn more about their 2020 projects & events, please e-mail [email protected]

Happy birthday BJ! Dylan Jordan “BJ” Baldoz celebrated his 8th birthday Friday, January 10, 2020 at their house in Kesey Lane, San Jose, CA. Among his cousins who attended his children’s party are Nathan Pagdilao and siblings Marcus, Logan and Sophia Loren Evangelista. He The Filipino American Retired United States Armed Forces Assn., is the son of Rodel and Emarie Baldoz who said: “No words can express ABS-CBN, through its long-running, award-winning Sagip Kapamilya www.FARUSAFA.ORG, installed their new 2020-21 officers and the love we have for you. You are our pride and joy. May you be blessed... program, is appealing to millions of overseas Filipinos and global board of directors - led by President Helen Nunez and Vice-Pres. we will make al your birthday wishes come true. Continue to make communities to help victims and evacuees of affected areas Manny Solano - during their New Year’s Eve party at the Vallejo mommy and daddy proud. Love you to infinity and beyond.” following the eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas, Philippines. Veterans Building. January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star B3 Community Luck and wealth are waiting for Awareness you at Graton in this new year! Franchise Tax Board Chair Betty Yee, Covered California urge Californians to get Covered right away

SACRAMENTO — Covered California Executive financial help is available. Director Peter Lee and State Controller and Among the uninsured, 62 percent are Franchise Tax Board Chair Betty Yee urged unaware that Covered California offers financial Californians recently to get health coverage help to help pay for health insurance. to avoid paying the new penalty now in effect 5. The uninsured are even less likely to know for 2020. Their urging comes as new research about the new financial help. released by Covered California shows that many Among the uninsured, only 27 percent are still do not know about the law that took effect on aware that Californians can receive even more January 1. financial help than ever before for health coverage, The research also shows that many of those compared to the 38 percent who generally know LUCK AND Wealth are here in this New Year! from $6.50 to $8.50 for many of the most popular without health coverage do not know there is that financial help is available. Let’s gather with relatives and friends at Graton dishes. Come and try them out! more financial help than ever before to buy health 6. Many uninsured Californians who could Resort & Casino to spend great times and And, there are 200 elegant comfortable insurance, including new help for middle-income get financial help are not finding out if they are moments together! Graton will host two wonderful rooms and luxurious suites, glamorous lobby and Californians. eligible. Lunar New Year Lion Dance shows on January 25 luxurious spa, more than 130 table games, including “We all have work to do to make sure people Nearly all the uninsured respondents at 2pm and 7pm respectively. Please don’t miss the Blackjack, Baccarat, Pai Gow Poker and more in in California know that if they can afford health surveyed (93 percent) could qualify for financial chance for the performances! Graton has prepared Graton. It also offers 3000 slot machines, live insurance, they have to buy it this year or they will help. However, most uninsured respondents (62 lots of activities allowing you to experience exciting poker, video poker and a large function space for face a penalty next year,” said Covered California percent) have not looked to see if they qualify for casino games, gourmet food and entertainment different music concerts and special events. Graton Executive Director Peter Lee. “Open enrollment is financial help. shows, and ensuring that you are all satisfied at the Resort & Casino’s 9,000 square feet non-smoking underway and there’s more help than ever before. 7. Uninsured Californians are far more likely same time! Luck is waiting for you! gaming area which offers 300 slot machines and Now is the time to enroll to avoid the penalty and to enroll in coverage if given financial help. The last Friday of January, February and video poker is just next to the casino valet. You can ensure you have the coverage you need.” More than two-thirds of uninsured March, there is Lexus and Cash Giveaway, a Lexus enjoy gaming in a non-smoking environment at Yee, who joined Lee at Thursday’s press respondents stated that subsidies of $500 per will be guaranteed given away as well as 50 cash Graton Resort & Casino! And, there are delectable conference, said taxpayers need to be aware of month would make them likely to enroll in a winners. Every 25 points get one entry, giving restaurants and bars, that offer different cuisines the penalty, known as the Individual Shared health plan. your new year with unexpected good fortune! And, in the casino, such as Twelve-time World Pizza Responsibility Penalty, so they can take steps to Uninsured middle-income Californians starting from today till March 26, every Thursday, Champion Chef Tony Gemignani’s Tony’s Of North avoid it when they file their taxes next year. (making between 401 and 600 percent of the 5pm – 10pm, Good Fortune Slot Tournaments will Beach, Pan-Asian Eatery Boathouse, a top-quality “I encourage everyone to secure qualifying federal poverty level) are even more likely to enroll be held, top prize up to $15,000 cash, total prize steakhouse 630 Park Steakhouse, classic American health care coverage as soon as possible so they are in coverage if they knew they were eligible for a up to $400,000! All reward members get one free dishes from Daily Grill, and 500 seats from the not surprised with a state penalty when filing 2020 $500 per month subsidy. entry into each tournament. Premier and Platinum Marketplace, offering casual and convenient state tax returns in 2021,” Yee said. “There are lots The average subsidy for eligible consumers members win double the prize amount, and Elite eateries, for your selection, you will be sure to have of ways to get coverage, including through Covered earning less than 400 percent of the federal member wins triple the prize amount! Come to a happy and unforgettable experience. California, where open enrollment continues poverty level is $447 per month; the average state Graton Resort & Casino to join our party now! through January 31 and I urge you to look at all the subsidy for eligible middle-income consumers is Get together at Graton, luck will follow. For more Graton Resort & Casino options to get coverage as soon as you can.” $460 per month. information related to the promotion, please visit Graton Resort & Casino is in Rohnert Park, For those facing a penalty, a family of With research showing that most of the GratonResortCasino.com or call 707-588-7100. California, next to the Golf Course Drive exit of four could pay at least $2,000 for not having uninsured have not checked to see if they are In addition to the exciting entertainment 101 freeway, easy transportation, it has gourmet health insurance. Controller Yee said there is an eligible for financial help, Lee encouraged gaming, dim sum is available in every Friday, food, entertainment & accommodation all in estimator on the Franchise Tax Board website Californians to look into it. Saturday and Sunday at Boathouse Asian Eatery. one, is the largest integrated resort in the Bay to assist consumers in understanding what they “You can find out in just a few minutes whether Master Dim Sum Chef Pit-fun Li introduces area. The casino is owned and operated by the could pay. In addition, Covered California and you are eligible for financial help from the federal his dishes that emphasize the use of natural Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, managed Franchise Tax Board have developed a fact sheet government, the state, or both,” Lee said. “Do not ingredients which brings out the classic dim by Station Casinos LLC. For more information, with more information about the penalty. leave money on the table; do not put yourself at risk sum flavor profile without using MSG. Chef Pit’s please visit www.GratonResortCasino.com, www. For 2020, Gov. Newsom and the state if you get sick or ill; do not get stuck with a big bill signature dishes are the House-Roasted Duck and facebook.com/GratonCasino or www.twitter.com/ Legislature are making new financial help when you pay your taxes in 2021.” Shao Lung Bao (soup dumplings). Prices range PlayGraton available to eligible consumers to help further Lee said the population of the uninsured lower the cost of their coverage. More than changes every year: With new people turning 26, 500,000 Californians have already qualified for moving to the state or leaving employer-based the new subsidies. coverage to work on their own, there is a new Cable companies fail A market research report released by Covered group of Californians to inform every year. That California, “Californians’ Understanding of group now includes people with higher incomes to hire minority-owned the Mandate to Have Health Coverage and the who qualify for financial help for the first time. Awareness of Financial Help,” was conducted by “California made a commitment to encourage Greenberg Brand Strategy from December 6 to 18. more people to get covered through the penalty suppliers, new report finds and by making that coverage more affordable Among the findings: through new financial help,” Lee said. “Together OAKLAND – Utility, telecommunications and our state is to remain competitive, regulated firms 1. Many Californians — especially the the penalty and new subsidies are powerful tools to water companies regulated by the California and their spending should reflect the demographics uninsured — are unaware of the state penalty. making sure that Californians follow the law and Public Utilities Commission continue to of our state.” Many Californians reported being unaware of sign up for a health insurance plan that will protect report overall growth in contracting with In 2018, the firms analyzed in Greenlining’s the requirement to have health insurance coverage them and their family. We want to make sure they suppliers owned by people of color, women, Supplier Diversity Report Card spent a combined in 2020 or else pay a penalty, including a majority know about it.” disabled veterans and LGBT people, reports $39.2 billion with outside contractors. Supplier of the uninsured (56 percent). The Greenlining Institute in its latest Supplier contracts represent enormous opportunities for 2. The uninsured are more likely to enroll in Californians Can Still Enroll Diversity Report Card. Still, some companies a wide variety of businesses owned by people of coverage if they are aware of the state mandate. Covered California’s open-enrollment period lagged, and results for particular groups were color and other marginalized groups and include Among the uninsured, 64 percent are more runs through January 31. Consumers can easily decidedly mixed. things like construction, transportation and likely to enroll in health insurance to avoid the find out if they are eligible for financial help and Key findings of the report, compiled from business and legal services. penalty. This is an increase of intent to enroll from see which plans are available in their area by 2018 data reported to the CPUC in 2019, include: Greenlining analyzed how much each 46 percent when uninsured respondents were entering their ZIP code, household income and Comcast trails all other regulated companies company spent on Minority Business Enterprises asked at the beginning of the survey whether they the ages of those who need coverage into Covered in contracting with Minority Business Enterprises. (including African American, Asian American/ plan to have health coverage in 2020. California’s Shop and Compare Tool. Just 3.99 percent of Comcast’s contract dollars Pacific Islander, Latino, and Native American- 3. The state mandate encourages already Those interested in learning more about their went to businesses owned by people of color and owned companies) and women-, LGBT- and insured Californians to keep their coverage. coverage options can: its spending with businesses owned by women disabled veteran-owned business enterprises. Among the insured population, almost all Visit www.CoveredCA.com. of color also ranked poorly at just 1.04 percent of Over-all, the utilities spent a combined $9.2 billion respondents (91 percent) will keep their health Get free and confidential in-person assistance, total contracts. on businesses owned by people of color, a slight insurance in 2020, and almost half (46 percent) in a variety of languages, from a certified enroller. Verizon Wireless sets the standard for diverse improvement over 2017. state that avoiding the penalty is a factor in Have a certified enroller call them and help spending with $290 million (33.92 percent) of To learn more about The Greenlining maintaining their coverage. them for free. its spending going towards businesses owned by Institute, visit www.greenlining.org. 4. Many uninsured people are unaware that Call Covered California at (800) 300-1506. people of color -- more than 10 times the amount of Comcast on diverse suppliers. Although 37 percent of California businesses are owned by women of color, they got just 4.16 PG&E offering 150+ college scholarships percent of contract spending in 2018.

Additional findings include: totaling nearly $500,000 Most companies improved their percentage of procurement dollars spent with Minority Business SAN FRANCISCO — Pacific Gas and Electric to help offset the cost of higher education. ERG scholarships are supported by PG&E shareholders. Enterprises in 2018, with Verizon Wireless and Company (PG&E) announced recently that scholarship winners will receive awards ranging More than 5,000 PG&E employees belong Sprint topping the rankings. scholarship applications are now being accepted from $1,000 to $7,000 for exemplary scholastic to the ERGs and ENGs. Each group helps The cable industry continues to neglect for college-bound high schoolers as well as current achievement and community leadership. Better further the company’s commitment to serving its supplier diversity, with Comcast (see above) and college and continuing education students living in Together STEM Scholarship recipients will receive communities and growing employee engagement. Cox both receiving grades of “F.” Northern and Central California. a one-time scholarship of $1,000 to $10,000 PG&E’s ERG and ENG scholarships are Spending with African American-owned More than 150 awards totaling nearly to assist in their pursuit of higher education in available through these 12 groups: suppliers was a mixed bag, with a few companies’ $500,000 are being made available through engineering, computer science, cybersecurity or Access Network (individuals with disabilities) spending dropping sharply. PG&E scholarships, which includes the employee environmental sciences. Asian Contracting with Latino-owned businesses resource group (ERG), engineering network group Since 1989, PG&E’s ERGs and ENGs have Black increased at two thirds of companies, but over- (ENG) and Better Together STEM scholarship awarded more than $4.5 million in scholarships Latino all levels remained low given the large Latino programs. to thousands of recipients. The funds are raised Legacy (tenured employees) presence in California. PG&E scholarships information, including totally through employee donations, employee National Society of Black Engineers (STEM Spending with woman-owned businesses criteria and applications, is available on PG&E’s fund-raising events and Campaign for the career employees) remained relatively flat. website. To be considered for a scholarship, all Community, the company’s employee giving NuEnergy (new employees) Contracting with LGBT-owned businesses applications must be submitted by February 7, program. PrideNetwork (LGBT employees) grew slightly but remained at generally low levels 2020. Since 2012, PG&E’s Better Together STEM Samahan (Filipino) with a small number of exceptions. “Helping students in our communities scholarship program has given nearly $3.6 million Society for Hispanic Professional Engineers “The groundbreaking supplier diversity attend college and achieve their goals is a big to accomplished students based on a combined (STEM career employees) efforts taken on by utility companies under the step toward improving lives. These individuals, demonstration of community leadership, Veterans guiding principles of the California Public Utilities many of whom are the first in their families to personal triumph, financial need and academic Women’s Network Commission’s General Order 156 have helped break attend college, will be the leaders and innovators achievement. In addition to the PG&E scholarships, the the ‘old-boy network’ and create opportunities for of tomorrow. We’re proud to invest in these Funds for Better Together STEM scholarships Pacific Service Employees Association (PSEA), a diverse entrepreneurs,” said Greenlining Institute promising young people,” said Mary King, PG&E come from the PG&E Foundation, which is non-profit mutual benefit organization serving President and CEO Debra Gore-Mann. “We have vice-president of Human Resources and chief dedicated to supporting charities that address PG&E employees and retirees, also provides seen that when commissioners make this effort a Diversity officer. critical social, educational and environmental scholarships for dependents of company priority, it can generate unprecedented results. If PG&E scholarships are awarded annually challenges in the company’s service area. These employees. B4 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 Legal & Law they should consult with an immigration lawyer 7. For June 2019, we received approvals to prepare their case and walk them through the of four adjustment of status, six naturalization immigration process. applications and two certificate of citizenship What is the legal Note: This is not a legal advice. They should applications, and one Removal of condition on consult with an immigration lawyer about their resident. specific situation. 8. On May 6, 2019, we received approvals basis for good of three adjustment of status applications and Success stories two Naturalization applications. 1. For the month of December 2019, 9. On April 24, 2019, we received approval faith marriage? we received two approvals of naturalization from USCIS for three naturalization applications applications, three approvals of Adjustment of and one adjustment of status. BY ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO Status applications, two approvals of Petition 10. On March 29, 2019, we received an to remove condition on residence, one renewal approval of adjustment of status for a client of green card approval and one green card whose petitioner and primary beneficiary has HEN YOU filed a petition for a spouse Bark v. INS. In determining intent of the parties, application at the U.S. Embassy. died under INA 204(l) to immigrate to the United States, the the conduct of the parties after the marriage 2. For the month of November 2019, 11. On March 28, 2019, we received an Wfirst question that you must answer is relevant to their intent at the time of their we received approvals of one naturalization approval of renewal of green card for a client who is whether your marriage is in good faith and marriage. This is supported by the case in Matter application, one renewal of green card, one was in the Philippines under medical treatment not for immigration purposes only. The USCIS of Laureano, 19 I & N Dec. 1 (BIA 1983). Petition to remove condition on residence and for one and a half years. uses many verification methods to verify if the one adjustment of status. 12. From March 4 to 26, 2019, we received marriage is in good faith. Foremost among these What is the burden of proof to prove 3. For the month of October 2019, we six adjustment of status approvals. methods is a field visit to your residence if you good faith marriage? received five naturalization application approvals 13. For the month of February, 2019, we are living together. The second most common The burden of proof in marriage cases is and two renewal of green card and one DACA received tow approvals of renewal of green card is the made during the interview. You and preponderance of evidence. Preponderance approval. and one approval of removal of condition on your spouse must be interviewed together and of evidence is defined as more likely than not 4. For the month of September 2019, residence. separately about your marriage. They require or greater than 50 percent that the evidence we received approval of two naturalization 14. On January 16, 2019, we received proof of commingling of assets such as joint bank presented support good faith marriage. applications, one adjustment of status and an approval of naturalization for a client who accounts, joint lease in residence, joint insurance Why are there so many cases involving one application to remove condition on received a waiver of misrepresentation in for health, property and life. Numerous immigrant petition based on marriage denied? residence. Immigration Court. photographs may be submitted to show that The main reason for the denial is that the 5. For the month of August, 2019, we If you have immigration problems the Law you are living together and having other people petitioner did not meet his or her burden of received approval from Immigration Court for Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a witnessed your relationship. proof. This means he or she was not able to a waiver of misrepresentation for a client who solution before your problem gets worse which convince the USCIS officer that the marriage was has committed marriage fraud. We also received could lead to deportation and family separation. What is the legal standard in deter- in good faith. There could be inconsistencies approval from USCIS of two naturalization mining good faith marriage? in their response during the interview. The applications and two fiancé visa petition. Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active The central inquiry in determining whether documents that they submitted may not be 6. For the month of July 2019, we member of the State Bar of California, the American a bona fide marriage exists is the intent of the sufficient or convincing to the officer. received approvals of three N-400 application Immigration Lawyers Association and San Francisco for Naturalization, one I-751 Petition to remove Trial Lawyers. He practices immigration law, parties at the time they entered into the marriage; What should Petitioners do to avoid being bankruptcy and personal injury law since June 1999. the parties must have had the intent to establish denied in their petition? condition of residence with interview and two His contact phone is 1-877-456-9266, email: info@ a life together. This is the ruling in the case of As early as possible before filing the petition, I-90 renewal of green card. CCLlaw.net ‘Bridgegate’ political China defends barring retribution case before Human Rights Watch US Supreme Court head from Hong Kong CHINA on Monday defended barring the head who have been refused entry in recent years. SHOULD someone be sent to prison for a of Human Rights Watch from entering Hong Financial Times journalist Victor Mallet was political dirty trick? Kong, saying non-governmental organisations denied a visa renewal without reason in 2018 after The US Supreme Court will address the were responsible for political unrest in the city and he hosted a talk with the leader of a small and now question on Tuesday when it hears a bizarre case should “pay the proper price”. banned independence party at the city’s press club. known as “Bridgegate” involving the use of a Kenneth Roth was supposed to give a press Last September, an American academic monster traffic jam to settle a political score. conference in Hong Kong this week to unveil the was barred from entering after he testified in a The case dates back to 2013 when New New York-based rights group’s latest global survey, Congressional hearing alongside prominent Hong Jersey’s Republican governor Chris Christie which accuses China of prosecuting “an intensive Kong democracy activists. was running for reelection and Mark Sokolich, attack” on international human rights agencies. “I had hoped to spotlight Beijing’s deepening the Democratic mayor of the town of Fort Lee, The long-time executive director said Sunday assault on international efforts to uphold human declined to endorse him. that he was turned back by authorities at the city’s rights,” Roth said. “The refusal to let me enter Aides to Christie were accused of creating airport. Hong Kong vividly illustrates the problem.” traffic gridlock on the George Washington China last month announced sanctions on Phil Robertson, deputy director of Human Bridge leading from Fort Lee to New York City American NGOs, including HRW, in retaliation for Rights Watch’s Asia division, said that when Roth as political retribution against Sokolich. the passage of a US bill backing Hong Kong’s pro- asked why he was prevented from entering Hong Bridget Anne Kelly, Christie’s deputy democracy movement. Kong, he was only told that it was “immigration chief of staff, and William Baroni, the deputy “Allowing or not allowing someone’s entry reasons”. executive director of the Port Authority, were is China’s sovereign right,” foreign ministry “What we believe is that he was stopped convicted of fraud for concocting a scheme to spokesman Geng Shuang said at a regular press because the Chinese government is afraid to have shut down lanes on the busy bridge over the briefing. the world know what they are doing to the people Hudson River during the morning rush hour. “Plenty of facts and evidence show that of Hong Kong and the people of China,” Robertson On the first day of school in September, two the relevant NGO has through various means told AFP in Bangkok. of the three lanes on the bridge out of Fort Lee Chris Christie (Photo: Facebook) supported anti-China radicals, encouraged them to The unrest that began last June is the biggest were closed for a fictional “traffic study,” backing engage in extremist, violent and criminal activity, crisis the former British colony has faced since its up cars and trucks in New Jersey for hours. that while their conduct may have been “petty, and incited Hong Kong independence separatist return to Chinese rule in 1997. “Time for some traffic problems in Fort insensitive, and ill-advised,” it was not criminal. activities,” Geng said. Under the terms of the handover, Hong Kong Lee,” Kelly wrote in an email to another official “In our system, political abuses of power are “They bear major responsibility for the enjoys unique freedoms unseen on the mainland, in the Port Authority, which controls the bridge. addressed politically,” they argued in a court brief. current chaos in Hong Kong. These organisations but in recent years fears have increased that these The traffic chaos lasted for four days, Their convictions, they argued, “would should be punished, and should pay the proper liberties are being chipped away as Beijing exerts causing children to be late for school, transform the judiciary into a Ministry of Truth price.” more control over the territory. commuters late for work and leaving emergency for every public official in the nation.” Hong Kong has been battered by nearly seven China and the Hong Kong administration vehicles stuck in gridlocked traffic. “And it would readily enable partisans not months of occasionally violent protests, its biggest have refused to cede to the protesters’ demands, Christie claimed to have no knowledge of just to harangue and harass political opponents political crisis in decades. which include fully free elections in the city, the plan and fired Kelly. -- but to prosecute and jail them,” they said. Millions have turned out on the streets of the an inquiry into alleged police misconduct, and “I am embarrassed and humiliated by the Government prosecutors disagreed and in semi-autonomous financial hub to demand greater amnesty for the nearly 6,500 people arrested conduct of some of the people on my team,” their own brief said that “the conspirators could democratic freedoms. during the movement -- nearly a third of them the governor said, branding it “stupid” and realign the lanes (on the bridge) only by lying “Why does Beijing advance the ludicrous under the age of 20. “deceitful.” about the existence of a traffic study.” fiction that @HRW incited the Hong Kong pro- Hong Kong’s Foreign Correspondents’ Despite his denials, Christie’s popularity “By telling those lies, and diverting the democracy protests?” Roth fired back on Twitter. Club, which was to host Roth’s press conference plummeted, dragging down his hopes of agency’s resources to serve their own personal “Because it is desperate to pretend that on Wednesday, said in a statement it was becoming the 2016 Republican presidential ends of inflicting massive four-day gridlock on hundreds of thousands of Chinese citizens aren’t concerned that the city’s government was using nominee at the same time. Fort Lee, Kelly and Baroni committed fraud,” protesting Beijing’s increasingly dictatorial rule.” the immigration department to “act punitively they said. against organisations and media representatives ‘Ministry of Truth’ It will be up to the nine justices of the Not the first it does not agree with, which is a violation of the Kelly and Baroni were convicted of fraud nation’s top court to decide whether the Roth joins a growing list of openly critical commitment to free expression and free speech in and sentenced to 13 and 18 months in prison convictions should stand. academics, researchers, politicians and activists Hong Kong law.” (AFP) respectively. They are expected to issue a ruling by June. They appealed their convictions arguing (AFP) German prosecutors charge 6 Indonesia rights body slams VW staffers over diesel ‘fraud’ GERMAN prosecutors on Tuesday said they Rupert Stadler, has also been charged with fraud, had charged three Volkswagen managers and falsifying certifications and illegal advertising. LGBT raids after UK rapist case three employees with fraud as part of their The Brunswick prosecutors said the six latest investigation into the massive “dieselgate” suspects helped bring vehicles to market that were INDONESIA’S human rights body on Tuesday said in a statement Tuesday. emissions cheating scandal. wrongly certified. slammed a crackdown on the LGBT community in The mayor’s office did not immediately Brunswick prosecutors accuse the six of Additionally, in Germany certain vehicles a city that was once home to a man described as comment. knowingly duping customers in Europe and the unlawfully benefitted from car tax rebates for being Britain’s most prolific rapist. Homosexuality is legal in Muslim majority United States into buying diesel cars rigged with assigned the Euro 6 rating reserved for the newest, Last week, a judge in Manchester sentenced Indonesia, except in Aceh province where it is “illegal software” to make them seem less polluting and in theory least polluting, diesel engines. Indonesian doctoral student Reynhard Sinaga, banned under local Islamic law. than they actually were. Three of the accused are executives alleged to 36, to life in prison and called him an “evil sexual But the country’s LGBT community has The six face charges of “serious fraud, indirect have played an active role in the scam, while the predator” who preyed on drunken young men on increasingly been targeted in recent years on falsification of certificates and tax fraud” related to three other employees “are accused of helping” with nights out. the back of a broader shift towards religious actions between 2006 and 2015, the prosecutors the fraudulent acts. The court heard he may have attacked as conservatism. said in a statement. “In particular, they were knowingly and many as 195 men, luring them into his flat with the Idris has previously launched anti-LGBT German prosecutors are investigating willingly involved in the development, refinement offer of a place to stay or alcohol. measures since taking office several years ago. dozens of current and former employees over the and improvement of the manipulating software,” The lurid case sparked revulsion in Sinaga’s But he cited the Sinaga case for the latest scandal that erupted in September 2015 when VW the statement said. native Indonesia and the mayor of Depok, where policy, which was aimed at “strengthening the admitted to installing software in 11 million diesels More than four years after “dieselgate”, the he lived before going to Britain, has ordered raids family, especially the protection of children”, worldwide designed to skew emissions tests. VW group, which includes the Porsche, Seat and against the city’s small LGBT community. according to a statement on the city’s website. The so-called defeat devices allowed some cars Skoda brands, remains mired in legal woes at Indonesia’s rights commission Tuesday Sinaga lived in Depok, near Jakarta, before to spew out up to 40 times more harmful nitrogen home and abroad. hit out at mayor Mohammad Idris’s plans as moving to Manchester on a student visa more than oxide than legally allowed. The scandal has so far cost the car behemoth contravening domestic and international rights a decade ago. A total of 11 people have now been formally over 30 billion euros in fines, buybacks and laws. He was found guilty of 159 offences, including charged over the cheating by German prosecutors, compensation -- including a massive settlement “Komnas HAM are also concerned about the 136 rapes and eight attempted rapes, at four including former VW chief executive Martin with around 600,000 car owners in the US. obligation of state institutions to respect, protect separate trials, according to the Crown Prosecution Winterkorn who stepped down days after the Earlier this month, VW said it would open talks and fulfil the human rights of all citizens, including Service, making him “the most prolific rapist in scandal broke. to possibly settle a mass lawsuit in Germany brought sexual and gender identity minority groups,” it British legal history”. (AFP) The ex-CEO of VW’s luxury Audi subsidiary, by some 400,000 duped diesel owners. (AFP) January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star B5 Health & Health@Heart Lifestyle

Diabetes and The ED magic pills: Sildenafil (Viagra), the sensitivity of the cells to insulin, enabling Verdenafil (Levitra, Staxybn), Tadalafil (Cialis, insulin to enter our cells and do its job for sugar Adcirca), Avanafil (Stendra) dilate (open up) metabolism and energy formation. sex drive blood vessels and allow them to fill up with blood While we normally produce insulin to cause engorgement, rigidity, firmness, and (endogenous) within us for sugar metabolism, it PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS erectness, effective for penetration and sustained needs to be able to go into our body cells in order and successful act and ejaculation. Persons taking to function and aid in glucose metabolism and nitroglycerin and other heart artery vasodilators produce energy for our bodily needs. When the RECTILE dysfunction, the inability to The next is to consult your physician, who will must NOT take any of these ED pills, as the cells are resistant to insulin (unable to enter our have and maintain an erection effective interview you in great detail about your personal combination could lead to severe fall in blood cells), then our blood sugar is not metabolized Efor penetration and successful sex, is very life, behavior, habits, compliance with medications pressure and death. Talk to your physician before and not used, so our glucose level goes up. This is common among men with diabetes. The lack of for diabetes, heart disease, etc., conduct a taking any new medications he did not prescribe, what pre-diabetes or diabetes type 2 is. The other libido is also seen among diabetic women. The thorough physical examination and do some blood including herbals or supplements. type of diabetes is when the pancreas is unable damage to the blood vessel and nerves caused by tests. This comprehensive work-up will provide There is also a type of suppository which to produce endogenous insulin and the person diabetes, especially those with poorly controlled your physician important diagnostic impressions could be inserted into the tip of the penis before is dependent on exogenous (prescribed) insulin blood sugar level, is the reason for lack or loss of which will guide him as to what to prescribe for sexual activity, or a solution to inject at the base injections for life. Metformin alone cannot solve libido among these individuals. you. Talking to your medical counselor is a must. of the penis to induce erection which could be this problem of absence of insulin production. used, under your physician’s guidance. The, there Metformin was discovered in 1922. Human The drug factor For inner peace is the vacuum suction device, a penis pump that research on metformin use started in the 1950s by Other causes of erectile dysfunction include In the management of this condition, the draws blood into your penis to cause erection. Also Jean Sterne, a French pohysician. It was marketed medications for the treatment of blood pressure primary physician might recommend consultation marketed is a band to be placed around the base of as a medication in France in 1957 and in the and heart disease, anxiety and stress, and some with a psychiatrist, who millions of normal the penis to prevent blood from leaving the penis, United States in 1995. Metformin has been found other psychological conditions, like depression. businessmen and other professionals seek to causing it to engorge. to be safe with relatively mild side effects in some These medications are known to lower libido and reduce anxiety and stress and prevent nervous If the pills, the pump, all other measures fail, people and none or temporary in majority of users. erection. Even financial dilemma could cause breakdown, burnout, depression, and physical physicians might recommend penile implant, Metformin also helps prevent type 2 diabetes sexual dysfunction among men and women. illnesses. Seeing a psychiatrist today, unlike a a surgical procedure to insert a semi-rigid or for those at high risk (heredity) of developing it. Having low libido and the inability to consummate century ago, is no longer restricted to people who inflatable penile implant, controlled by a “button” Metformin is usually prescribed when dieting and sexual intimacy could be very frustrating and are “crazy,” Today, it is part of a healthy lifestyle to inflate to cause rigidity for sex, or deflate after exercise alone are unable to control blood sugar devastating to people. It could ruin relationships, and disease prevention, whenever needed as part sex. level. Unlike some other medications for glucose marriages, and lives. of stress management, for inner peace. For either men or women, obesity (or control, metformin does not cause weight gain. being overweight) lowers libido besides sexual Long term use of metformin has not been Don’t despair More complicated for women performance. Dieting and physical exercises, shown to cause kidney damage. Those with However, there are remedies and strategies Among women, the lack or absence of on the other hand, improves sexual desire and poor kidney function might lead to a build up of available today that could help. The very first libido (sexual desire) is more complicated prowess in bed. metformin in the body, unable to excrete the drug one is living a healthy lifestyle. This includes a than low hormonal level (in men, it is low T, or efficiently, causing lactic acidosis. Physicians monitor healthy diet of fish, chicken, less or no red meat, testosterone). A consultation with an OB-Gyne Metformin wonders this situation so it is prudent for patients to make a lot of vegetables, legumes, some fruits and nuts. expert is strongly recommended. The use of Talking about diabetes mellitus type 2, the regular medical visits Studies have suggested that Abstaining from tobacco (it constricts blood penile vaginal lubricant has been most helpful in some most popular first line of drug is metformin. It those on metformin have lower risk for cancer. There blood vessels too, besides coronary arteries of the women. Since men have to do the penetration, the does not lower blood sugar level like insulin does. are even suggestions in recent studies that metformin heart) and/or elicit drugs (including marijuana), treatment of erectile dysfunction might also help Metformin works by fighting (reducing) our body improves longevity. Larger independent studies are avoidance of alcohol, daily exercise (even walking, some women in achieving sexual gratification. cell-resistance to our own insulin produced by our needed to confirm this marvelous potential. briskly or paced according to tolerance), and stress Women with more complicated issues could own pancreas and also control the sugar released Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, a Cardiac management, are a great help. These are within benefit from further medical consultation. by the liver to the blood stream. When our cells are Surgeon Emeritus based in Northwest Indiana and your personal control, and discipline and resolve resistant to insulin (not allowing insulin to go into Las Vegas, Nevada, is an international medical are certainly vital here. A positive attitude and The management the cell), we develop slow metabolism and retain lecturer/author, and Chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, a 501(c)3 humanitarian foundation outlook in life could make a tremendous difference As far as erectile dysfunction is concerned, the sugar and fats in our body, leading to overweight in the United States. Websites: philipSchua.com and in the solution of this sexual dilemma. following strategies are available today: and high cholesterol level. Metformin increases FUN8888.com Hotter temperatures could kill First case of new virus behind China 2,000 more a year in US: study outbreak found in Thailand: WHO

A RISE in temperature of just two degrees change can affect young people,” said Majid THE WORLD Health Organization confirmed unknown type of corona virus, a broad family Celsius could lead to an additional 2,100 deaths Ezzati, senior study author and a professor at Monday the first case in Thailand of a new virus ranging from the common cold to more serious from injuries every year in the United States, Imperial College London. from the same family as SARS that is behind a illnesses like SARS. researchers said Monday, highlighting another “We need to respond to this threat with Chinese pneumonia outbreak. The agency said Monday it had been danger posed by global warming. better preparedness in terms of emergency The UN health agency said a person informed by Thai health officials that the patient Most of the extra fatalities would be men services, social support and health warnings.” travelling from Wuhan, China, had been there was recovering from the illness. aged 15-34 years due to a heightened risk Data from the National Center for Health hospitalised in Thailand on January 8 after It stressed that it was not surprising that the of drowning and road traffic accidents, with Statistics analysed by the team showed that in being diagnosed with mild pneumonia. virus had spread beyond China. alcohol consumption tending to rise in line with the 1980-2017 period, 4.1 million boys and men “Laboratory testing subsequently confirmed “The possibility of cases being identified temperatures. died from injury compared with 1.8 million girls that the novel coronavirus was the cause,” WHO in other countries was not unexpected, and Researchers from Britain and the US and women. studied the number of deaths from injuries on a They found that warmer temperatures spokesman Tarik Jasarevic told AFP in an email, reinforces why WHO calls for on-going state-by-state basis for every year between 1980 increased the risk of dying from drowning referring to the new virus. active monitoring and preparedness in other and 2017. and transport accidents, linked to increased WHO said it might soon host an emergency countries,” it said in a statement. The deaths were classed either as accidental swimming, driving and alcohol intake. meeting on the spread of the new virus. It pointed out that it had issued guidance -- from vehicle crashes, falls, drowning and They used a statistical model to predict The case marks the first outside of China, on how to detect and treat people who fall ill so on -- or intentional, from say assault and the number of additional deaths in a given year where 41 people with pneumonia-like symptoms with the new virus, and stressed that China’s suicide. depending on whether temperatures warm 1.5C have so far been diagnosed with the new virus decision to rapidly share the genetic sequencing They then tracked unusual temperature or 2C. in the central city of Wuhan, with one of the of the virus made it possible to quickly diagnose changes for each county over the same period These are the temperature targets that victims dying last Thursday. patients. and found that deaths from injuries tended nations agreed to work towards in the 2015 Paris The episode has caused alarm due to the WHO has not recommended any specific to rise during warmer months, particularly in climate accord. spectre of SARS, or Sudden Acute Respiratory measures for travellers or restrictions on trade populous southern states such as California, The team found that 1.5C of warming would Syndrome, which in 2002-2003 killed 349 with China, but stressed Monday it was taking Texas and Florida. bring an additional 1,600 deaths each year; 2C The authors of the study, published in of warming would see around 2,100 more. people in mainland China and another 299 the situation seriously. the journal Nature Medicine, said the findings With just 1C of warming since pre-industrial in Hong Kong, whose economy was hit hard “Given developments, WHO Director- indicated a strong link between the risk of dying times so far, Earth has already experienced a by the epidemic’s devastating impact on General Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus will from injury and rising global temperatures cascade of deadly climate-related disasters that tourism. consult with Emergency Committee members triggered by climate change. kill thousands of people and displace millions The WHO has confirmed that the outbreak and could call for a meeting of the committee on “These new results show how much climate each year. (AFP) in China has been caused by a previously short notice,” it said in a statement. (AFP) HOROSCOPE KROSWORD (Source: Kappapuzzles.com) www.starlightastrology.com ARIES (MAR. 21- APRIL 20) LIBRA (SEPT. 24 -OCT. 23) Sudden trips may take you by surprise; try to include your Be prepared to take advantage of your good fortune. Problems mate, mixing business with pleasure. Don’t let others put with appliances or electrical gad gets will drive you crazy. Older unreasonable demands on you. Be sure to pay attention to your family members will make demands on your time. Don’t use the financial status. You will need to do a lot of research if you wish interstate as a racetrack. to get to the bottom of things. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. SCORPIO (OCT. 24 - NOV. 22) TAURUS (APR. 21- MAY 21) Be sure to pay attention to your financial status. Be careful not Do your chores and get on with the things you enjoy doing. to come on too strongly. Loans will be attainable and legal matters Don’t torment yourself. Disharmony in the home will be easily taken care of. Travel, although enticing, will cost more than extremely stressful. You must make sure that all your personal you expect. documents are in order. Try not to take everything so seriously. Your lucky day this week will be Monday. Your lucky day this week will be Monday. SAGITTARIUS (NOV. 23 -DEC. 21) GEMINI (MAY 22-JUNE 21) You can win if you’re open and up front with your boss. Don’t Business trips might prove unproductive. Get involved in the hesitate to go ahead with any plans for entertainment. Friends and relatives may not understand your needs. Don’t avoid your true activities of children. You will do your best work on your own. feelings. You’re best to avoid disputes. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. CAPRICORN (DEC 22.- JAN. 20) CANCER (JUNE 22-JULY 22) You’ll be able to break bad habits if you put your mind to it. Opportunities may come up at prestigious affairs. You may Deception and confusion regarding your status in society is likely. have difficulties with foreigners. You can get a great deal You will have to be sure not to burn the candle at both ends. The accomplished if you bring work home. It’s time to reevaluate danger of minor accidents will increase with the turmoil. your motives. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. AQUARIUS (JAN. 21.- FEB. 19) LEO (JULY 23-AUG 22) Weigh the pros and cons and make a decision that will change Don’t overdo it. You may want to take a look at courses the conditions you’ve been living under. After all, they may offered at a local institute. Let them know what your intentions have valuable information to pass on. Your ability to deal with are. Your personal life will be disrupted if you have been too humanitarian groups will enhance your reputation. Think twice busy with business. before you say something you might regret later. Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

VIRGO (AUG. 23 -SEPT. 23) PISCES (FEB. 20-MAR. 20) You are best to back away from commitment. This will be a Do not let them in on your plans if you want things to run great night to invite friend over to visit. You will be encouraged smoothly. Avoid any confrontations with colleagues. You may find to get involved in a moneymaking venture. You will upset your that you’re being used. Get involved in creative projects that could partner if you have spent money on things that aren’t necessary. turn into moneymaking ventures. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. Your lucky day this week will be Monday. B6 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020 Entertainment ‘1917’ marches to top of ‘Joker’ leads Oscar nods N. America box office with 11 as women, shot -- one critic called it a “protean display of virtuoso filmmaking” -- flourished despite a lack of A-list stars. The central characters, two British lance minorities miss out corporals on a desperate mission, are played by George MacKay and Dean-Charles Chapman; “Congratulations to those men,” actress and Colin Firth and Benedict Cumberbatch have writer Issa Rae, co-host of the official Oscars minor roles. nominations announcement, said pointedly as Disney’s “Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker,” she presented the Academy’s picks. fell to second place after a month in first with a In an industry criticized for its lack of take of $15.2 million. The finale of the nine-film diversity, the Oscars picked only one non-white “Skywalker Saga” has now taken in a global total acting nominee -- British star Cynthia Erivo, who just shy of $1 billion. plays US anti-slavery icon Harriet Tubman in In third, down one spot from last weekend, “Harriet.” was Sony’s action sequel “Jumanji: The Next “This is more than a dream come true,” said Level,” which earned $14 million for third place Erivo, who was also nominated for performing in the Friday-through-Sunday period. It stars the movie’s rousing anthem “Stand Up.” Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Kevin Hart. Notable snubs included Eddie Murphy for In fourth place was Paramount’s new release blaxploitation biopic “Dolemite Is My Name,” “Like a Boss” which earned $10 million and was Jennifer Lopez for “Hustlers,” Awkwafina for followed by “Just Mercy” in fifth place with $9.7 “The Farewell” and Lupita Nyong’o for “Us.” million. “Like a Boss” stars Tiffany Haddish, Rose Industry website Deadline Byrne and Salma Hayek in the story of two Hollywood called Monday’s nominations friends whose small beauty company is targeted “basically #OscarsSoWhite Part 2: 1917 (Photo:Facebook) by an industry titan. #OscarsSoWhiterAndWithMoreMen,” referring “Just Mercy,” with Michael B. Jordan, Jamie to a hashtag begun in 2015 in response to the lack UNIVERSAL’S war epic “1917” took command of diverse nominees. of the North American box office at the weekend, Foxx and Brie Larson, is based on the true story of a black man on death row in Alabama who Last year, three of the four acting Oscars riding its Golden Globes success to earn $37 went to non-white performers. million, industry watcher Exhibitor Relations appeals his wrongful conviction for the murder of a white woman. But in a possible sign of the Academy of said Monday. Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ increasingly The movie’s strong showing came as it Rounding out the top 10 were: Joaquin Phoenix (Photo:Facebook) international outlook, “Parasite” became just the earned 10 Oscar nominations on Monday, sixth non-English language movie nominated for including for best picture. Last Sunday it won “Little Women” ($7.8 million) DARK comic book tale “Joker” topped the both best international feature and best picture. Golden Globes -- often a predictor of Oscar “Underwater” ($7.1 million) Oscar nominations Monday, picking up 11 nods And the Academy pointed to a record success -- for both best drama and best director “Frozen II” ($5.9 million) including best picture and best director, as number of female nominees overall, at 62. (Sam Mendes). “Knives Out” ($5.6 million) women and ethnic minorities were largely shut The figure includes movie producers, “1917,” filmed as if in one long, continuous “Spies in Disguise” ($5.2 million) (AFP) out once again. documentary makers and technical categories The pre-dawn Academy Award such as best musical score, where Icelandic announcement capped months of ceaseless maestro Hildur Gudnadottir became the ninth Once more onto the campaigning by A-listers and studios, woman nominated. revealing which stars and movies have a shot at Hollywood’s ultimate prize next month. Obamas ‘so thrilled’ Todd Phillips’s “Joker,” a bleak, arthouse Robert De Niro was the biggest star bridge: Captain Picard origin story about Batman’s nemesis starring overlooked in the best actor category for “The Joaquin Phoenix, was just ahead of three films. Irishman,” although Scorsese’s nod makes him Quentin Tarantino’s 1960s Tinseltown the most-nominated living director at the Oscars, homage “Once Upon a Time... in Hollywood,” with nine nods. returns to ‘Star Trek’ Sam Mendes’s World War I odyssey “1917” and “The Irishman” helped Netflix to 24 Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” each earned 10 nominations -- the first time it has ever topped nominations, including best picture and director. the studio count. South Korean class satire “Parasite,” from Adam Sandler shrugged off his omission for Bong Joon-ho, secured the final best director playing a compulsive New York jeweler, joking slot, meaning once again no women made the that he would no longer have to campaign for the shortlist. acclaimed “Uncut Gems.” Much of the focus so far this award season “Bad news: Sandman gets no love from the has been on the lack of female and ethnic Academy,” he tweeted. “Good news: Sandman minority filmmakers honored. can stop wearing suits.” The acclaimed “Little Women” was Acting frontrunners Renee Zellweger and acknowledged in several of the major categories, Phoenix headed the Oscar shortlists for their star including best picture, but Greta Gerwig was turns in Judy Garland drama “Judy” and “Joker” snubbed for best director, in a repeat of her respectively. disappointing omission from the Golden Globes. Documentary “American Factory” -- which “Unfortunately there are just five nominees” follows a US Rust Belt factory reopened by a for best director in an “incredibly strong year,” Chinese billionaire -- picked up a nomination for one Academy voter who asked not to be named its well-known producers. told AFP. “It’s the kind of story we don’t see often “I don’t think it’s a vote against female enough and it’s exactly what Michelle and I directors,” he added. hope to achieve,” tweeted former US president In the history of the Oscars, only five Barack Obama, adding he was “glad” to see the Patrick Stewart (Photo: Facebook) women have been nominated for best director -- nomination. including Gerwig, for 2017’s “Lady Bird.” “So thrilled,” wrote Michelle Obama. HE VOWED never to return but Patrick Stewart on the Starship Enterprise in the 2002 movie Some 9,000 Academy members vote for the is back in spandex for another intergalactic “Nemesis”. Oscars. Voting for winners begins January 30, adventure as Captain Jean-Luc Picard in a new But he is galvanised back into action to help ‘#OscarsSoWhite Part 2’ closing five days later. series of “Star Trek” next week. Dahj, a young woman in distress. “Little Women” acting nominee Florence The Oscars will be handed out in Hollywood Having bid farewell to the character that The new series also sees Picard going back to Pugh told Variety she was “happy that everybody on February 9. (AFP) brought him international fame, the English his Gallic roots as French civilisation seemingly is upset” over Gerwig’s snub. Shakespearean actor, who turns 80 later this teeters on the brink of extinction. year, was tempted back into the Trekkie universe With some scenes shot in a vineyard, Picard by a whole new take on Picard. even gets to speak his native tongue on screen. Model Gigi Hadid called as “It has been 17 years since I said ‘au revoir’ “We tried to create as French a world as to Jean-Luc,” Stewart told AFP during a visit to possible,” Stewart told AFP. Paris, and a quarter of a century since the last potential Weinstein juror series of “Star Trek: The Next Generation” ended. Parallels with the present “It was my absolute intention not only never Picard is backed up in the new series by AMERICAN model Gigi Hadid appeared as to go back to that world, but to assume that Raffi Musiker, a peerless hacking genius and a potential juror in disgraced movie producer everything that could be said had been said -- that investigator played by Michelle Hurd who is Harvey Weinstein’s rape and sexual assault trial there was nothing more to say,” he added. tormented by her demons and rather complicated on Monday, adding a fresh celebrity twist to the That is until Stewart began talking to Alex past relations with the captain. high-profile proceedings. Kurtzman, the creator of “Star Trek: Picard” and “I think she represents a lot of people, Hadid, 24, raised her hand in the New York screenwriter Michael Chabon, who wanted to hurting women who may be haunted by the state court when Judge James Burke asked the take the commander to places he has never been choices and decisions that they’ve made,” Hurd dozens appearing for jury selection whether any before. Chabon brings a certain cachet to the told AFP. of them knew Weinstein or his legal team. project as a Pulitzer prize-winning novelist -- but “She is just trying to get up in the morning “I have met the defendant,” said Hadid, he is also a longtime Star Trek fan. and confront the day. sitting in the jury box. “I found that they had ideas that were “She’s really, really good at her job. Burke then asked her if she could be fair and unexpected and that we were in a different world Sometimes I think maybe her skill... is the thing impartial. “Yes,” she replied. from the one that ‘The Next Generation’ created,” that is distracting her from what is haunting her,” Hadid -- who has modeled for a host of top said Yorkshire-born Stewart, who was knighted she added. fashion brands including Chanel and Victoria’s in 2010. The other major female character in the Secret -- said she had also met Salma Hayek. series is Dahj, played by British-born actress Isa The Mexican-born actress has accused Shaken and stirred Briones. Weinstein, 67, of sexual harassment and may be “It feels like a new beginning because Picard “Dahj kind of sets everything in motion... mentioned in court during the trial. is in a completely different situation from the one starting Picard on a new mission,” she said. “I think I’m still able to keep an open mind that we saw in him for four movies and the 178 Although she wasn’t a “major fan” of the on the facts,” Hadid told the Manhattan court. Gigi Hadid (Photo:Facebook) previous episodes” of the cult television series in original series, Briones said she always admired Hadid appeared alongside 120 or so other which he appeared. its values and diversity. jury candidates as pre-screening of potential It is likely, however, that the defense would For one, the retired starship admiral, who “I like to say it’s a beautiful responsibility jurors entered its second week. challenge the selection of a social media star with once exuded such calmness and authority, will be that we have. People care so much about this Prosecutors and defense attorneys are trying more than 51 million Instagram followers. genuinely rattled in the new series, which goes show... it has helped them find people who speak to select 12 jurors and six alternates. They have Weinstein has been accused of sexual assault out from January 23 on CBS and Amazon Prime. the same as them.” already questioned more than 500 candidates. by more than 80 women since accusations The ageing Picard has lost his bearings, As often with science fiction, Briones said Scores have already been excused after against him ignited the #MeToo movement in rocked by the death of his android Data, who was “the storylines reflect current events”. saying they could not be impartial due to October 2017. such a talisman for the Starfleet’s officers. “We’re going to tell stories that are pertinent heightened publicity surrounding the trial, which But he is being tried on charges related to “There are one or two characters who have to this time, but you may not see it as that until is expected to run until early March. just two. He faces life in prison if found guilty of a history with ‘Star Trek’ (in the new series) but the end,” said Hurd teasingly. Following her appearance, Hadid was due to predatory sexual assault. the world around them is transformed -- it is not “We are not teaching lessons but we are bringing fill out a questionnaire before returning later this Opening arguments are expected to begin on the same world,” said Stewart, who last appeared light to human dilemmas,” she added. (AFP) week for further screening. January 22. (AFP) January 16-22, 2020 FilAm Star B7 Entertainment Aga doesn’t mind Sharon appeals to Duterte to losing to Allen as 2019 renew ABS-CBN franchise for the sake of thousands of employees MMFF Best Actor ONE OF SHARON Cuneta’s birthday wishes is for President Rodrigo Duterte to reconsider his stand on ABS-CBN’s franchise renewal for the sake of thousands of employees of the network. Sharon, who celebrated her 54th birthday last Jan. 6, shared her birthday wishes with reporters during the renewal of her contract with ABS-CBN on Thursday afternoon. The President has repeatedly said he would block the passage of a law that would renew ABS-CBN’s franchise because of its failure to air his political advertisements during the 2016 presidential elections, among other things. The Kapamilya network’s franchise is set to expire in March this year. “(Those) who have remained loyal to the station, grown up here, have learned from the school of hard knocks here, have become family, good friends, will lose almost everything they’ve built over the years,” Sharon said, in justifying her appeal. “And even those who might choose to stay, if Sharon Cuneta with Pres. Duterte (Photo: Facebook) Aga Muhlach (Photo: Facebook) indeed it unfortunately goes that way, it won’t be account a few days ago.She said she felt sad that she By Joseph Peter R. Gonzales right?” he avers. “But in the many years that I the same,” she continued. “So I hope in my heart didn’t even get a personal message from KC. “It’s stayed in the ‘biz, I’ve learned not to expect.” that our dear President reconsiders the thousands not like her. I’m worried about her… I know that AGA MUHLACH is no greenhorn in winning The be-dimpled actor recalls that his past and thousands of employees who have grown up she will get in touch with us soon… It all boils down acting accolades. Starting out as a popular experiences taught him how to accept things here, learn the ropes here, and that includes me.” to a mother missing her daughter,” she declared. matinee idol in the early ‘80s, he gradually when it comes to awards. As for her other wishes on her special day, the Sharon said she did not even know that KC transformed into a critically-acclaimed thespian “You know, I’ve had my share of such feeling actress said: “For my family, it would have to be wouldn’t show up at their home on New Year’s over the years. He has won a handful of Best before. When I was younger, yes, I would admit peace. I also wish for love, good health, devotion, Eve or the following day. It has been a tradition Actor trophies from the different award-giving that there were instances when I really expected. family loyalty and closeness… And for my fans to since KC was born, she added. “I was just worried bodies like the FAMAS, Gawad Urian, Luna You wanted so bad to win in this award-giving continue supporting my projects.” about what she might be going through. I guess it’s Awards, Metro Manila Film Festival, Golden body then as it turns out, you’d lose. It’s definitely For the coming year, Sharon is expecting to do because she’s older. As we grow older, maybe we Screen Awards, Maria Clara Awards, Star Awards not a happy state so I’ve learned not to set high two TV shows (“Your Face Sounds Familiar” and feel less need to consult with our parents. But in our for the Movies and Young Critics Circle. expectations anymore.” a teleserye), seven new films (to be produced by family—I’ve also gone through this while growing Among his winningest performances are for What’s more important for Aga is that the different film outfits) and two concert tours abroad up—we still have to give our parents the respect of the movies: “Napakasakit, Kuya Eddie”” (1986), public appreciates and supports his offerings. (one of which will be in May with Regine Velasquez). letting them know where we are, how we are and “Joey Boy Munti” (1991), “Bakit Labis Kitang “That’s right! The trophies? I’ve learned not who we are with,” Sharon pointed out. Mahal “ (1992), “May Minamahal” (1993), “Hindi to take them seriously. For me, the real trophy is Missing KC She added that she didn’t want to know about Kita Malilimutan” (1993), “Sinungaling Mong when the people watch and enjoy my films.” On the same occasion, the Megastar lamented what’s happening in her eldest daughter’s life only Puso” (1993), “Sana Maulit Muli” (1995), “Kung The handsome actor stresses though that he that her eldest daughter, KC Concepcion, has not from newspapers. “God forbid! What if there’s an Ako na Lang Sana” (2003), “Dubai” (2005), “In still likes to win acting awards in the future. been showing up in important gatherings at home accident? I’d go crazy! She’s my kid!” Sharon said. the Name of Love” (2011), “Of All the Things “Oh, yes, I like that. You’re in high heavens and have been conspicuously absent during her This was why Sharon was also visibly surprised (2012) and “Seven Sundays” (2018). in that moment when your name is called to birthday celebration. when reporters asked her reaction to the rumor Interestingly, before the start of the come up on stage. But when you lose, it shouldn’t “I don’t know what’s happening to my that KC is dating American-Filipino rapper and recently-concluded 2019 Metro Manila Film change you.” daughter. I miss her,” Sharon said. record producer apl.de.ap, who is best known Festival, many were saying that he was a shoo- In his recent loss to Allen, Aga remains The Megastar (left) with daughter KC as the member of the hip-hop group Black Eyed in for the Best Actor plum for his heart-tugging positive. Concepcion Peas.“That’s a surprise to me so I don’t know what performance in “Miracle in Cell No. 7” which “I’ve always been happy for any of my co- “Social media is not really a good platform to to say,” the Megastar said. “I have a lot of respect for was the official top-grosser. However, come nominees who would bag the award. In this case, express your feelings, especially if you’re a public apl. He is a good person. I just wish I had heard it awards night, he lost to Allen Dizon who also Allen got it. I’m happy for him. I’m like, ‘Wow! I figure. I just posted my greeting to my daughter from her, if it was true.” did a good job in “Mindanao.” Due to this, know that feeling.’ because her explanation for her absence on my Sharon continued: “KC is in her 30s and has people got curious as to how he felt about such “It’s simply inexplicable. So to Allen, my birthday special in ‘Asap’ was also posted on social her own life to live. All I’m asking for is her time for development. sincerest congratulations. There’s nothing wrong media,” the actress said, explaining her lengthy the family… I just know that I did not raise any bad “Of course, who wouldn’t want to win, really if he won. It’s just okay with me,” he ends. and highly emotional letter to KC on her Instagram children.” (inquirer.net) B8 FilAm Star January 16-22, 2020