COMMENTARY HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS PHILIPPINE NEWS inside look America Needs 3 Volunteers Gear Up 5 Divorce Bill 11 AUG. 14, 2010 Healthcare Freedom, for Annual Kalihi Revived in not "Reform" Community Health Fair House

H AWAII’ S O NLY W EEKLY F ILIPINO - A MERICAN N EWSPAPER PHILIPPINES TO COMPETE IN HOMELESS WORLD CUP OF SOCCER TOURNEY IN BRAZIL

By Gregory Bren GARCIA

ootball, also known as “soccer” in America and lovingly referred to by fans as “the beautiful game,” is the world’s most popular sport. As proof, this year’s Fédération F Internationale de Football Association’s (FIFA) World Cup 2010 was estimated to have drawn an epic 26 billion cumulative global viewers during the entire sporting event, or an average of 400 million viewers per match.

It’s a following that con- pine Basketball Association, a little- sports.” The relative simplicity of the stantly trumps even the Olympic known Filipino football team will try game makes it so accessible to just Games itself. Despite the sport’s its luck in another “world cup” tour- about anyone, no matter the social sta- popularity however, the basket- nament in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil tus, nationality, ethnicity, height, sex and ball-crazy Philippines remains come September 2010. so on. one of the few countries in the “You can play anywhere: on grass; world that does not put football at THE WORLD’ MOST DEMO- on cement; on dusty, stony ground; or the pinnacle of their pantheon of CRATIC GAME even (as pained mothers all over the sports. While most Filipinos con- Writing for Time Magazine, world will attest) inside the house,” wrote Members of Team Philippines pose for a group photo after a match tinue reading the papers’ sports John Carlin describes football as Carlin. The rules are also very simple; all in the 2009 Homeless World Cup of Soccer in Milan, Italy section for news about the Philip- “uniquely democratic among team (continued on page 4) (photo courtesy of streetsoccerphilippines.com) 'No Corruption in Use of OFWs in Islam Nations to US Aid' Suffer Anew in Month of By Paolo ROMERO Ramadan ANILA, Philippines - The Aquino ad- By Dennis CARCAMO ministration has assured Washing- ANILA, Philippines -- The number of M ton that its $434-million aid abused and run away overseas Fil- package, approved last week, will not be M ipino workers (OFWs) dramatically tainted with corruption and will be utilized increases during the Holy month of Ra- properly. US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr madan where a lot of them could not bear President Aquino is expected to wit- the traditions which entail its observance, ness the formal signing of the compact, and Trade Secretary Gregory Domingo according to a migrant workers' rights group. equivalent to P20 billion, between the left for Washington over the weekend to fi- "It is expected that [OFWs] too would Philippine government and the US Millen- nalize details of the aid package, which abide the cultural practices of their respec- nium Challenge Corp. (MCC) when he the country can tap starting next month. tive employers observing the Holy Month of goes to the United States next month – his Approval of the compact by the board Ramadan and this would be very difficult for first overseas trip as Chief Executive. It will of the MCC, a US government agency de- (continued on page 4) Muslim faithfuls during Ramadan not be a state visit. signed to work with developing countries US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. told and chaired by Secretary of State Hillary HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE PRESORTED 94-356 WAIPAHU DEPOT RD., 2ND FLR. STANDARD The STAR the other night that Aquino ad- Clinton, was stalled during the Arroyo ad- U.S. POSTAGE WAIPAHU, HI 96797 PAID ministration officials have assured his gov- ministration on US concerns that Manila HONOLULU, HI ernment that in utilizing the aid, there will was not doing enough to fight corruption. PERMIT NO. 9661 be “no corruption, it will be money well Thomas said approval of the pact spent.” showed his government’s faith in the new Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima (continued on page 4) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 2 EDITORIAL AUGUST 14, 2010 Immigration Reform Should Include a Pathway to migrant backlashes (which is what's really going on) fol- Citizenship low a track of economic hardship, unemployment, mass anxiety and fear of being taken over by people who are hen fashioning any type of comprehensive culturally different. Immigration reform is largely an ex- legislation, political strategists always look to tension of Americans desperation at lifting the economy. W the numbers: where do we stand on demo- It is a reaction to our country's national decline. graphics and who wants what. In the recent healthcare debate, there was strong MYTH ONE: ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION AND support across the board, solid one-sided party back- BORDER VIOLENCE ARE UP ing, and vested interest among 40 million uninsured The fact is illegal immigration has been on the decline that made the chances for a significant overhaul by more than 60 percent since 2000. This year, appre- seemed plausible. In spite of favorable political condi- hensions at the border is the lowest figure in 35 years. tions to push forward major legislation, the end result On top of that, deportation is at a record high, estimated was the signing into law a mere "pilot program" fix that at 50,000 a month. The slower pace of illegal entry is a di- only moderate Democrats could be pleased with. rect result of increased security budget increases since Just a few months later, the Obama administra- the September 11 terrorist attack. Contrary to Arizona's tion is pressed for yet another major revamping, this rightist elements that justify their new racist law due to time of our immigration system. With looser political rampant violence committed by illegal Mexicans, the F.B.I alliances and a fairly regional impact, it's question- statistics show that violence all along the Southwestern able how much more successful substantively immigration reform will fair in border counties on the U.S. side has fallen by more than 30 percent in the the coming months. past two decades. The one big advantage this issue has over healthcare is bipartisan sup- port. Both Democrats and Republicans agree that reform needs to get done MYTH TWO: THE UNDOCUMENTED ARE STEALING JOBS, . Where the consensus quickly becomes scattered is Democrats and Re- HURTING OUR ECONOMY publicans within each of their own parties have vastly different proposals over Perhaps most ironic in this whole narrative is that economists assert that what reform should look like. large sectors of our economy depend on illegal labor. The Department of Democrats seem uncommitted to the issue because they lack the num- Labor calculates that more than half of crop pickers in the U.S. are undocu- bers base to support immigration reform with the one but very influential ex- mented and underpaid. It's highly doubtful that undocumented workers are ception in its Hispanic electorate. Republicans have the fiery passion to take competing for the same jobs that most Americans would want. Importing the on the issue, but in rare, surprising form is split among key groups. Its con- same amount of crops into the country currently homegrown is something servative Christian and big business factions are inclined to support a path- we'd have to do if deportation becomes law. The damage to our economy way toward citizenship for the undocumented in our country; while its larger would be devastating, raising the cost of all consumable goods, further weak- middle-America, working class base favor outright deportation. ening the country's economy and compromise our financial sovereignty, sim- Considering the relatively tighter scope of this issue compared to health- ilar to our dependence on foreign oil. care -- determining the fate of 11 million undocumented residents among a The beneficial economic output that our undocumented population con- nation of over 370 million citizens -- it's somewhat unusual for reform of this tribute far outweighs the cost that they use. Undocumented immigrants, who magnitude to trigger such intense feelings of urgency, fear and anger. Unless comprise nearly one-third of all immigrants in the country, do not even qual- of course, deeper layers of complexities are at play. ify to receive welfare benefits or social security, as popularly believed, and popularly rumored by anti-immigrant groups. This is one of the most damag- THE UNDOCUMENTED: SCAPEGOATS DURING ECONOMIC DECLINE ing myths surrounding illegal immigrants because the last scenario the ma- According to a recent CBS/Times poll tracking, the number of respon- jority of Americans struggling to make ends meet would want is to support dents who consider immigration a "very serious problem" is rising -- from 54 another class of welfare recipients. percent in 2006 to 65 percent this May. Prior to 2006, at the beginning stages A 2007 analysis of U.S. Census data by the Center on Budget and Pol- of this exhausting recession, there really was no overwhelming national con- icy Priorities, makes it clear that it is the U.S. born, U.S. citizen children of un- sensus that illegal immigrants posed a serious problem. documented immigrants who are eligible for programs such as Medicaid. The sudden sense of real urgency surfaced in the last four years actually Even at that, less than 1 percent of households headed by undocumented im- mirroring the trend of Americans' shrinking pocketbooks. Historically, anti-im- migrants receive cash assistance for needy families, compared to 5 percent (continued on page 3)

HAWAII-PHILIPPINE NEWS EDITION Contributing Writers Advertising/Marketing Director Columnists Calvin Alonzo, O.D., Clement Bautista, Linda Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Charlie Y. SONIDO, M.D. Carlota Ader Dela Cruz, Fiedes Doctor, Gregory Bren Garcia, Publisher and Executive Editor Carlo Cadiz, M.D. Danny de Gracia II, Amelia Jacang, M.D., Account Executives Sen. Will Espero Caroline Julian, Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D., Carlota Ader Chona A. Grace F. Fong, Ed.D. Glenn Wakai J. P. Orias MONTESINES-SONIDO Mayor Mufi Hannemann Creative Designer Big Island Distributor Publisher and Managing Editor Governor Linda Lingle Junggoi Peralta Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. Grace Larson Dennis GALOLO J. P. Orias Philippine Correspondent Ditas Udani Edwin QUINABO Pacita Saludes Guil Franco Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. Maui Distributor Associate Editors Photographer Cecile Piros Charlie Sonido, M.D. Tim Llena Randall SHIROMA Emmanuel S. Tipon,Esq. Felino S. Tubera Administrative Assistant Molokai Distributor Design Consultant Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. Shalimar Pagulayan Maria Watanabe

The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is published weekly by the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. It is mailed directly to subscribers and distributed at various outlets around Oahu and the neighbor islands. Editorial and advertising deadlines are three weeks prior to publication date. Subscriptions are available at $75 per year for Oahu and the neighbor islands, continental U.S. $85, foreign country $95. Copyright 2007-2010. The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. is located at 94-356 Waipahu Depot, Waipahu, HI 96797. Telephone: (808) 678-8930. Facsimile: (808) 678-1829. E-mail: [email protected]. Opinions expressed by the columnists and contributors do not necessarily reflect those of the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle management. Reproduction of the contents in whole or in part is prohibited without written permission from the management. All rights reserved. Printed in the USA. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 COMMENTARY 3 ulations is not more “reform” but freedom. The cheapest way to America Needs Healthcare Freedom, make healthcare available to all is it became readily apparent to the Great Society and government’s in- not to mandate it but to allow people world that America’s paper money sistence in intervening in the private to purchase it if they need it and Not “Reform” might not be backed by anything. market. The only thing that Wash- leave it be if they don't need it and to which laid the foundation for On August 15, 1971, to prevent hy- ington D.C. in its quest to see na- throw government interference out. by Danny DE GRACIA, greater Federal intervention in perinflation from setting in, Nixon tionalized healthcare realized is the All across America, millions of peo- II and Lauren EASLEY nearly all matters of private life and froze wages and prices for 90 days creation of powerful pharmaceutical ple are calling for a reform of the resurrected nationalized health- and permanently ended the con- and insurance monopolies. PPACA and some eighteen states or almost eight decades to the care. In 1965, Congress passed a vertibility of dollars to gold. More shocking is the revela- are suing the Federal government date, American people have wave of Great Society spending The second major event was tion from a recent PBS Frontline in- over the unconstitutional racket cre- F been repeatedly under pres- bills and established Medicaid. on December 29, 1973 when Presi- vestigative report that the passage ated by compulsory insurance. Just sure from Washington D.C. to be The Federal government likewise dent Nixon signed the Health Main- of the PPACA was never about pro- last week, U.S. Eastern District subject to mandatory buy-in of subsidized hospitals all around the tenance Organization Act of 1973 viding better healthcare options to Judge Henry Hudson denied the health insurance. On August 15, nation, funding everything from into law in response to skyrocketing the people but rather establishing Federal government its motion to 1935, President Franklin Roo- healthcare to the purchase of new healthcare and prescription costs that everyone be forced to pur- dismiss Virginia’s lawsuit against sevelt established the Interdepart- equipment and even lobby furni- caused by the Great Society’s mar- chase insurance, thus creating a PPACA and some 667,680 of Mis- mental Committee to Coordinate ture. The new regime, which saw ket interventions. Since that day racket that even former DNC chair souri’s voters voted for Proposition Health and Welfare Activities for both a spending frenzy and wide- when HMOs were created, America and presidential candidate Howard C, which nullifies enforcement of the the purpose of developing a policy spread fraud, resulted in skyrock- has not been the same. Not only did Dean called “an insurance com- PPACA in their state. framework for a new health insur- eting prices for healthcare and the cost of healthcare and medicine pany’s dream.” Now is the time for Americans ance regime. In 1939, Senator prescription medication. continue to increase, but now a new Wendell Potter, former vice to educate themselves on where our Robert Wagner of New York intro- By 1970 it had become appar- industry – the health insurance in- president of communications at country is heading with universal duced S. 1620 which took the find- ent that the Great Society had only dustry – saw abuse, fraud and sky- CIGNA, speaking of the insurance healthcare. Our nation’s history in ings of Roosevelt’s task force to resulted in debt for the Federal rocketing prices of its own. lobby told Frontline: “They want to the evolution of healthcare needs to mandate universal, compulsory Government and unbearable prices President Barack Obama’s insis- make sure that they get a require- stop with the progression of a na- health insurance. Though S. 1620 for consumers. Two watershed tence on establishing a new health- ment that all of us buy health insur- tionalized pursuit, but rather take languished and was never real- events followed the failure of the care regime in America via the ance. They want to make sure that step some steps backward to see ized, its supporters used incre- Great Society. First and foremost, Patient Protection and Affordable we are all forced by to buy products that every American individual is en- mental legislation to bring America the United States, which up to that Care Act (PPACA) as a result of from them. And they want to make titled to make their own choice. to the point at which mandatory point had backed its paper dollars supposedly evil insurance compa- sure that there’s no alternative The answer to 1984 is 1776. coverage would be inescapable. by gold, was forced to employ the nies charging too much money and other than the private insurance On May 22, 1964, President Federal Reserve in 1971 to expand Americans not having enough ac- market. That’s why they’re so DANNY DE GRACIA is the president Lyndon Johnson in a commence- the money supply by 10% just to cess to healthcare and medicine is adamantly opposed to the public of Free and Living Conservative. ment speech to the University of keep pace with spending. The re- nothing short of a false flag. The option.” LAUREN EASLEY is a political sci- Michigan coined a new political sult was that foreign holders of U.S. very healthcare crisis that exists The solution to these decades entist and a former policy advisor at phrase – “The Great Society” – dollars began demanding gold, as today is a result of the failure of the of failure, waste and market manip- the Hawaii State Legislature. EDITORIAL (CONT.) million (equivalent to $380 mil- benefit, each of these pioneer- (cont. from page 2... ) It is not a time to regress lion today). This massive land ing immigrant groups have of households headed by na- what we see is a different to "nativism" -- the notion that area included the states of contributed immensely to the tive-born U.S. citizens. United States where in a few somehow those who arrived decades, Caucasians will for earlier have more legitimate California, Nevada, Colorado, development of our country New Mexico, Utah, and most RACE AND CULTURE the first time be one among claims to being in this country. with very little compensation. of Arizona, all of which were We must ask ourselves If we are really honest other minority groups. This Natvism ended as soon as largely occupied then by Mex- what's really going on and with ourselves, we must ac- translates to fear for the his- European foreigners arrived ican nationals. bring to surface our true moti- knowledge that this "get-out- torically dominant group, and and overtook the true natives In each of these historical vations for immigration re- of-OUR-country" movement is is the basis for the increas- of our land. events involving various immi- form. It's a complex issue, but a racist one and actually ex- ingly anti-immigrant policies Nor should it be a time to grant groups, the standard of no less challenging to find so- isted well before the current this decade. squabble over the "illegality" "legality" has never been clear lutions as we've done during political controversy. Make no of how these immigrants got upon entry, or at times even other large migration flux into illusions that the mean-spir- TWO COURSES TO TAKE here with their numbers al- morally acceptable. To our our country. ited intent, from vulgar to sub- WHERE TO GO FROM HERE? ready at 11 million, with some tle, is not simply directed at At one extreme, lawmak- of the undocumented living in illegals. They are aimed at ers can adopt unrealistic laws our communities well over 30 non-white immigrants in gen- requiring official registration, years. Really, how legal was it eral. Consider the new Ari- deportation, slow re-entry, when African slaves were zona law as a case in point if harsh fees and strict English- brought into the country, or there is any doubt. proficiency standards. Or an- when contract laborers were The Hispanic and Asian other way to proceed with shipped in from China, Japan, populations are growing at the reform is making achievable and the Philippines, then de- fastest rate among all groups requirements that make com- cided to overstay after their and today collectively make pliance possible for the vast contracts expired? Eventually up 20 percent (2008 Census majority of those affected. they were given a pathway to projection) of all Americans. Fortunately there is wisdom citizenship. These groups are prominently on both sides of our political Perhaps the biggest doubt represented in eight of the 10 parties regarding immigration of legality is the acquisition of largest cities in the nation: reform. Republicans got it one-quarter of the western New York, Los Angeles, right in their emphasis on U.S. continent from Mexico in Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, stronger border patrol. De- the first place. In the Treaty of San Antonio, San Diego and mocrats are correct in sup- Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, a San Jose. These two groups porting a pathway to peace pact ending the Mexi- also happen to comprise the citizenship, or "amnesty" (call can-American war, the U.S. highest number of undocu- it what it truly is). What both forced Mexico to give up 1.36 mented residents. Add into parties must avoid is extrem- million km² (525,000 square the mix the population of ism in both of these reason- miles) to the United States in African Americans and clearly able pursuits. exchange for a mere U.S.$15

(continued on page ) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 4 HEADLINES (CONT.) AUGUST 14, 2010

(cont. from page 1; Filipino...) Photo courtesy of streetsoccerphilippines.com held in Milan, Italy. ers from Marikina. After screening you need is a ball or any round ob- them according to their soccer skill ject that you can kick towards a PLAYING IN FOOTBALL and living situation, meaning they designated goal post. CAPITAL must be marginalized at the least, This “great equalizer” quality of This year’s Philippine Home- not necessarily homeless, we football is probably the reason why less World Cup team is composed came up with the final 16. We fur- it became the sport of choice for of booters from different parts of ther slashed this in half and came the organizers of the Homeless the country. Incidentally, they will up with the current team,” del World Cup—a yearly international be playing in Brazil, a country Rosario says. street football tournament brings which many consider the football To prepare for the tourna- together teams of people who are capital of the world. ment, the Philippine team homeless and marginalized to take Rudy del Rosario, team direc- launched a rigorous training regi- a part in a once in a lifetime op- tor, proudly introduced the players men in late July. portunity to represent their coun- to the Hawaii Filipino Chronicle. “Since July 26, we started in- tries and to forever change their “Five of the players are from tensive daily training, including lives. The program started grass- Luzon, including Mark and Lexter Monday and Wednesday roots football projects in over 70 Maravilla from Lucban, Quezon, evenings, Tuesday and Thursday countries and now works with an back when he had a chance en- ized people. In July of 2008, the Hammid and Abdula Pasion from mornings, and a half day of estimated 30,000 homeless peo- counter with Mel Young, the Urban Opportunities for Change Pagsanjan, Laguna and Revect La- friendly tune-up games every Sat- ple every year. founder of the Homeless World Foundation was awarded the proj- garto from Leveriza, Manila. Three urday. Then from August 15 to The first tournament was held Cup. Young was also honorary ect and we have continued to or- of them are from the Visayas, in- September 5, we will start doing in Graz, Austria in 2003 with only president of the International Net- ganize it since then.” cluding Tonie Mark Arinal and twice daily workouts. Hopefully by 18 national teams participating. work of Street Papers—indepen- In past tournaments, the Michael Quinlat from Talisay City that time, the team is already bil- The 2010 edition of the games, dent publications that provide Philippine team placed modestly in and Leopoldo Aragon from Bacolod leted at the PhilSports Arena slated for September 19-26, 2010 employment opportunities and so- terms of rankings. In its inaugural City,” del Rosario says. which is managed and run by the at the Copacabana Beach in Rio cial development programs for in- appearance in the 2008 tourna- The eight young men of the Philippine Sports Commission. It de Janeiro, will be fielded by a digents and homeless people. ment, played in Melbourne, Aus- team, aged between 19 to 25 years will be much more convenient for record 64 nations, including the “After attending the INSP (In- tralia, the Philippines played in the old, were chosen after a series of our team if we get the PSC’s sup- Philippines. ternational Network of Street Pa- male and mixed male divisions and nationwide tryouts that covered port,” says del Rosario. Bill Shaw, head of the Urban pers) conference in Poland in finished 37th out of 48 countries. Luzon, the Visayas and Mindanao. Hammid Pasion, who plays as Opportunities for Change Founda- 2007, we continued to correspond The Philippines improved its “We invited 20 players from defender for the team, says play- tion and organizer of the Philippine with Mel,” Shaw says. “We talked ranking the following year. In the Davao City in Mindanao to try out, ing for the group requires a lot of World Cup Team, says the idea of about how a Philippine team would same 48-team division, the Philip- eight players from Laguna, 12 sacrifice because he also still has a Philippine team for the Home- be a good way to give opportunity pines finished 29th out of 48 na- players from Luzon, 18 players to think of ways to be able to help less World Cup began a few years and encouragement to marginal- tions during the 2009 tournament from Leveriza, Manila and 12 play- (continued on page 5)

(cont. from page 1; No U.S ... ) services in some of the country’s and transparency, and the timely im- Malacañang disclosed yester- nance Secretary Cesar Purisima to poorest provinces. plementation of the compact, will day that President Aquino person- communicate with Clinton to pro- Aquino administration. Another $120 million will go to deliver tangible results.” ally lobbied the American vide details on the Philippines’ anti- “It’s been very transparent in the expansion of a community- Thomas, in a statement shortly government to grant the Philippines corruption and policy improvement everything,” Thomas told The STAR. based rural development program after the approval, said it “marks a the $434-million MCC assistance. program, as well as other matters “We have seen what you have done called Kalahi-CIDSS. It aims to de- vote of confidence in the Aquino ad- Presidential spokesman Edwin that might be of interest to the in the first few weeks and we like velop local accountability and allow ministration and its commitment to Lacierda expressed belief that the MCC. what we’ve seen so far. We like poor communities to design the proj- confront corruption.” United States’ confidence in the Lacierda said the MCC grant working with this administration.” ects they need to increase their in- Aside from meeting with US new administration’s anti-corruption was an indication of the confidence He said US officials started fi- comesand improve their lives. government officials led by Presi- and anti-poverty stance convinced of the US toward the Aquino admin- nalizing the compact with Purisima The third component is a dent Barack Obama in Washington, the MCC to approve the grant. istration’s efforts to eliminate poverty and other members of the Aquino $54.3-million project to computerize President Aquino will address the In his letter to US President and promote good governance. camp’s transition team in June, and streamline processes in the Bu- United Nations General Assembly in Barack Obama dated July 8, Mr. He said the past administration shortly after the proclamation of the reau of Internal Revenue to reduce New York and meet with the Filipino Aquino said one area that could im- could not be given credit for the new president. opportunities for corruption and im- community in California, his point of mediately benefit from the two MCC grant because the assistance The compact will finance three prove revenue collection. entry and exit. countries’ continued cooperation is was precisely deferred during the major projects. The largest amount, Following the MCC Board’s ap- Washington is organizing a the imminent conclusion of the administration of former President $214.4 million, is earmarked for the proval of the aid package, MCC meeting between Obama and lead- Philippines’ Millennium Challenge Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. construction and repair of 220 kilo- Chief Executive Officer Daniel ers of the Association of Southeast Account Compact Program agree- “We were awarded the grant on meters of Samar Road, which Yohannes said, “I am confident that Asian Nations who are also attend- ment. Aug. 5 after they reviewed our let- passes through 15 municipalities, the country’s ongoing commitment ing the UN gathering. “Once the agreement is ter,” he said, adding that the US was improving access to markets and to positive reforms, accountability Personal lobby signed, the Philippine government also assured of faster resolution of will be able to implement the three tax and other related cases under development projects and mutually Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. agreed upon conditions precedent He said the campaign promise submitted to the Millennium Chal- and the concrete projects convinced lenge Corporation for Compact as- the MCC to release the grant. sistance,” Aquino told Obama. “We came in with the promise He said his government was of reform and we intend to do that. able to commit to MCC’s principles Good governance and poverty alle- of ruling justly, investing in people viation are two main pillars and we and promoting economic freedom intend to deliver on those two prom- “for we also believe that these will ises,” Lacierda said. form the foundations of a progres- Compacts are large, five-year sive Philippine society.” grants for countries that pass MCC’s Aquino said he instructed Fi- eligibility criteria. (www.philstar.com)

(cont. from page 1; OFWs ... ) ing late at night but waking up them to adjust, coupled with the in- early in the morning. He added do- humane treatment accorded to mestic helpers have to contend to them,” said John Monterona, re- get a single meal daily during Ra- gional coordinator of Migrante-Mid- madan. dle East. “If during the past months, we At the start of Ramadan's ob- normally received an average of servance today, Monterona said five cases of run away and distress OFWs and other nationalities are OFWs daily, we expect to receive expected to keep up with the huge eight cases during Ramadan,” household chores such as sleep- Monterona said. (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 HEADLINES (CONT.) 5 (cont. from page 1; Filipino...) today, football was quite popu- ing the NBA finals. It is a very ing my prayers as well as all the his loved ones. lar in the Philippines in the early promising time indeed, one that other people who provided me this “We have to do construction 20th century, when basketball will hopefully lead to the revival opportunity.” work for the Kids International Min- was not yet the nation’s favorite of the golden years of Philippine Perhaps the greatest value of istries (an NGO) so we could earn a pastime. It was the time when football. being a player for Homeless World bit to send help to our families. But the Filipino football sensation Cup is the opportunity of change we are preparing very hard for Rio Paulino Alcántara Riestrá cre- FOR FOOTBALL, SELF that it affords its participants. de Janeiro so that we would be ated an illustrious career in Eu- AND COUNTRY “It has really changed my life a ready for the games when we get ropean football. At the forefront of this re- lot,” says Pasion. “I have learned to there,” he says. Alcántara helped the vival of course are the likes of discipline myself. And outside of the When asked what his expecta- Philippine Football team win Rudy del Rosario and the game, I have learned to mingle and tions for the team are for the 2010 against Japan during the 1917 Philippine Homeless World Cup get along with people from different Homeless World Cup, del Rosario Far Eastern Games and be- team who are bringing not only cultures and backgrounds. I am a says he is setting his eyes on im- came known for being chosen football into the Philippines, but more confident and disciplined per- proving the country’s overall rank- to play for Futbol Club The Philippine Homeless Word Cup Team also Filipino sporting excellence son now.” ings from the previous editions of Barcelona, a Spanish club still competing during the 2009 edition of the to the world. According to del Rosario, wit- (photo courtesy of the tournament. popular today. Alcántara, who tournament in Milan, Italy. “It’s already doing a lot of nessing his players’ transformation www.streetsoccerphilippines.com) “Our main objective is to im- started playing as a striker for good for our players and the is what motivates him as well as the prove on our two previous cam- Barcelona at just 15 years of age, country’s football faithful however, poor people they represent. I be- many trainers and assistants. paigns. I would like to see our team is renowned for scoring a record it looks like the Philippines is on the lieve that it will do a lot of good for “Just seeing the transforma- making it to the top 24 bracket of 357 goals, the greatest number verge of embracing the beautiful Philippine football, because this is tion my players have undergone the 48-team mixed and men’s cate- ever achieved by any player of the game once more. In October 2009, a chance for us to put our country and the improvements they are gory that we are joining. If we club, past or present. the Football Alliance of the Philip- on the world football map,” del achieving daily are enough to in- could make it to the top 10, then How his name had been for- pines began holding the United Rosario says. spire us all to do even more. And I why not! Nevertheless, we will go gotten in the annals of Philippine Football League tournament, gar- For Hammid Pasion, it’s more can see that the same is true for to Rio de Janeiro with our minds sporting history is indicative of just nering much attention from the than just playing a sport he loves— the boys when I see the fire in their set on winning the cup. We would how much many Filipinos have be- public and support from private cor- it’s really a fulfilment of his dream eyes,” he says. carry the flag on our shoulders come unimpassioned about foot- porations. to play for the country. with pride. After all, we are the ball. Never mind that the Philippine Earlier this year, pockets of “I am grateful to have been To donate to the Philippine Homeless best-ranked Asian country during National Football Team, formed in passionate Filipino football fans chosen as one of the players of World Cup team, visit www.streetsoc- the Milan Homeless World Cup,” 1907, is one of the oldest in Asia, or gathered in jam-packed pay-per- Team Philippines,” he says. “It has cerphilippines.com or contact Bill he says. that the Philippines once ranked a view locations to watch the 2010 been my dream ever since I was lit- Shaw at 0063-928-7803682 or high top 26 in the whole world, FIFA World Cup matches, much tle. Now, I’ll be playing at the [email protected], and Rudy del REVIVAL OF PHILIPPINE based on the World Football Elo akin to how Filipino basketball fans Homeless World Cup and will be Rosario at 0063-920-2300486 or abu- FOOTBALL Ratings of 1915. congregated when the Boston representing my country. I still can’t [email protected] Unknown to many Filipinos Thanks to the efforts of the Celtics and L.A. Lakers battled dur- believe it. I thank God for answer- HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Volunteers Gear Up For 27th Annual Kalihi Community Health Fair free health care. with extensive medical needs will be Kalihi Rehab, Ohana Medical Mis- The Health Fair has been referred to appropriate physicians. sion, Philippine Medical Association THE 27TH ANNUAL KALIHI an annual success, thanks to This year’s sponsors include of Hawaii, the Filipino Catholic Clubs COMMUNITY HEALTH FAIR the generosity of many health Councilmember Romy Cachola, of St. Anthony’s Church in Kalihi and will be held on Saturday, August 21, care providers and other vol- Ace Medical Inc., Bayanihan Clinic Our Lady of the Mount, PT Hawaii 2010, from 1 pm to 5 pm at the Su- unteers. Without Walls, Chinese General Inc., St. Anthony’s Kalihi Knights of sannah Wesley Community Center “The past 27 years have Hospital Nurses, Clinical Laborato- Columbus, John the Baptist’s Parish at 1117 Kaili Street. taken a lot of time and effort ries, EverCare, Hawaii Filipino and Three For Life. The health fair is an annual but we’ve enjoyed every Healthcare, Hawaii Medical Center For more information on the event originally organized by the Fil- minute,” says Dr. Erlinda Ca- BCCCP/ Susan Komen Foundation, 27th Annual Kalihi Community ipino Catholic Club of St. Anthony’s chola, who along with daugh- Hepatitis Network, Kalakaua Lions Health Fair, please contact Dr. Er- Church in Kalihi and Dr. Erlinda Ca- ter Dr. Lyla Cachola-Prather, son grants, the homeless, low-income or Club, Kalihi-Palama Medical Center, linda Cachola at 845-9955. chola, a Kalihi medical internist. Earl Cachola and colleagues Dr. at-risk groups and others who for Both have been the driving force be- Elizabeth Abinsay and RN Evelyn obvious reasons do not have ac- hind this event for the past 27 years. Llamas, are once again co-chairing cess to basic medical services. A va- Originally held at St. An- the event. “This is the Cachola fam- riety of free health screenings and thony’s School cafeteria, the ily’s and the many volunteers’ way exams will be available, including Health Fair was the Cachola fam- of saying ‘thank you’ for supporting tests for blood, height/weight/blood ily’s way of giving back to the com- us all of these years.” pressure, eye, ear/nose/throat munity. The event was later moved The health fair is not just for (ENT), thyroid, podiatry, breast, to its current location at Susannah Kalihi but also for residents in other colo-rectal, diabetes, Hepatitis, kid- Wesley as more patients received communities, particularly immi- ney & lung disease, etc. Patients HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 6 LEGISLATIVE CONNECTION AUGUST 14, 2010 Getting Ready to Protect the World cluding the catapult take-offs of our being invited to be on board the jet aircraft. The experience was USS Ronald Reagan, which was genuinely awe-inspiring. Hats off to the only carrier participating in this the nerves of steel and precision Senator Espero, year's RIMPAC exercises. RIMPAC donning protective control of our fighter pilots and the stands for "Rim of the Pacific Exer- head gear and specialized, highly trained crew that cise", the world's largest interna- flight vest, enjoys support them. tional maritime exercise. The naval a tour of the USS We are all proud of our uni- Ronald Reagan fleets of our Pacific Rim allies par- formed services. Their sense of during the recent by Senator Will ticipate in this event. Its purpose is RIMPAC duty and their willingness to sacri- to promote regional stability through exercises. fice a "normal" lifestyle for the sake ESPERO enhanced interoperability among of our country and the cause of any years ago, my father re- Pacific military forces. Honing com- sible for the U.S. to respond effec- Along with other guests, I was keeping the peace around the tired from the U.S. Navy bat techniques increases our mili- tively to conflict situations that arise flown out to the USS Ronald Rea- world, are admirable. I, along with Mafter a rewarding 21-year tary readiness to deal with potential around the globe, and support our gan to tour the aircraft carrier. We many others, honor their dedication career that capitalized on his tal- conflicts in the western hemisphere. role in maintaining world stability. watched several drills that day, in- and service to our nation. ents as a chef. His cooking skills Two of the hot spots in the military gave him the privilege of preparing theatre are the long-standing threats HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS delicious meals for the military's top between mainland China and Tai- officials on his tours of duty. Our wan, and North Korea. family followed my dad around the The U.S., Canada, and Aus- Filipino Catholic Clubs to Hold Pageant country and the world, as do many tralia were the three nations in the Navy families. I lived in Washington, first RIMPAC event in 1971, and who is president of St. Anthony's California, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, have participated in every RIMPAC and Scholarship Awards Kalihi FCC, thanked all the con- Cuba, Japan, and Italy. I was born since then. Japan, the United King- The competition consists of testants for their hard work and at the Naval Station in Yokosuka, dom, Chile, Peru, and South Korea, Celebration selling various items such as Por- dedication. Japan, and graduated from high have regularly participated as well. tuguese sausage, cinnamon bread, “Desiree is most deserving of school in Oak Harbor, Washington The "war games" give fleets the THE 55TH OAHU COUNCIL cookies, and the most popular item, her title as this year’s pageant near Whidbey Naval Air Station. opportunity to practice routine skills OF FILIPINO CATHOLIC marinated bangus to raise funds for queen, but I also recognize the The experience of growing up in dif- as well as test new naval vessels CLUB Annual Charity Queen Pag- scholarships for children who are hard work and dedication of all the ferent states and countries gave me and technology. eant and Scholarship Awards Cel- seeking a Catholic education. princesses and churches who par- a broad exposure, respect, and ap- As Chair of the Senate Com- ebration will be held August 28, This year, the St. Anthony’s ticipate annually to raise money for preciation of the range in culture, mittee on Public Safety and Military 2010 at St. Anthony’s Church in Kalihi FCC raised the most money, this worthy cause,” he says. “Con- lifestyle, and outlook. This has Affairs, I am often invited to events Kalihi at 5 pm. thanks to pageant Queen Desiree gratulations to all the participants helped me as a senator to listen to highlighting our military readiness. Hosted by St. Anthony’s Kalihi Bucasas who sold the most items and thank you to all those who sup- and consider the diversity of inter- I am proud of the hard work, com- Filipino Catholic Club (FCC), the and raised the most funds. Bu- ported our efforts.” ests in evaluating bills before the mitment, and level of skills of our event is a friendly contest between casas will be crowned queen to If you are interested in attend- Legislature. men and women in uniform. Their all Filipino Catholic Clubs in recognize her achievements. ing, please RSVP by calling Pru- I recently had the honor of rigorous preparation makes it pos- Catholic churches on Oahu. State Rep. Joey Manahan, dencio Pilar at 351-0728. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 LEGAL MATTERS 7 God, Don’t Destroy America Yet, Only 5 States Allow Gay Marriage “the English word ‘sodomy’ origi- Proposition 8 in November 2008. San Francisco. These cases will eventually nated from the name of the city of Salus populi est suprema lex. The The judge continued: "Rather reach the Supreme Court. I foresee Sodom.” will of the people is the Supreme law. than being different, same-sex and a 5-4 decision, either way. Remem- Gay marriage will lead to Aren’t you shocked that one un- opposite-sex unions are, for all pur- ber Bette Midler’s song: “God is sodomy. Or sodomy will lead to gay elected judge overrules the Supreme poses relevant to California law, ex- watching us from a distance.” by Atty. Emmanuel marriage. Which came first, the Law and seven million? Which brings actly the same." Really? Samonte TIPON chicken or the egg? up the question: Should judges be (ATTY. TIPON has a Master of Laws America is fortunate that there elected? If judges were elected, DEFENSE OF ACT DENIES degree from Yale Law School and a hou shalt not lie with are still 45 remaining states that would the voters boot out judges EQUAL PROTECTION, TOO? Bachelor of Laws degree from the Uni- mankind, as with wom- have not legalized gay marriage. thwarting the people’s will? Earlier in Massachusetts, an- versity of the Philippines. He practices in “Tankind; it is abomination.” Only five states allow gay marriage The judge, invoking the equal other federal district court judge de- Hawaii, specializing in immigration law and Leviticus 18:22. – Connecticut, Iowa, Massachu- protection clause of the Constitu- clared unconstitutional a federal criminal defense. Tel. (808) 225-2645. E- “Then the Lord rained brim- setts, New Hampshire, Vermont, tion, said that “Proposition 8 fails to law, Defense of Marriage Act Mail: [email protected]. Website: www.ImmigrationServicesUSA.com. He is stone and fire on Sodom and Go- plus the District of Columbia. Can- advance any rational basis in sin- (DOMA), 1 U.S.C. Section 7, which from Laoag City and Magsingal, Ilocos Sur. morrah, from the Lord out of the didates for the “brimstone and fire” gling out gay men and lesbians for provides that “the word ‘marriage” He served as an Immigration Officer. He is heavens.” Genesis 19:24. Why did treatment ? denial of a marriage license.” Gays means only a legal union between co-author of “Immigration Law Service, God destroy these cities? Because are not being singled out. They are one man and one woman as hus- 1st ed.” an 8-volume practice guide for “the men of Sodom [and Gomor- GAY MARRIAGE BAN DENIES being differentiated from straights. band and wife, and the word immigration officers and lawyers. Lis- rah?] were exceedingly wicked and EQUAL PROTECTION? “Somos diferentes”. That’s the ra- ‘spouse’ refers only to a person of ten to the most funny, witty, and useful sinful against the Lord.” Genesis Is California on the brink of tional basis. If Proposition 8 had the opposite sex who is a husband radio program in Hawaii on KNDI at 13:13. They were violating God’s being thrown into the lake of fire? A banned gay persons from marrying or wife.” The court held that DOMA 1270, AM dial every Tuesday at 7:30 prohibition in Leviticus. federal judge’s invalidated Proposi- in Los Angeles but not in San Fran- violates equal protection. Gill v. Of- a.m. and on KHBC at 1060, AM dial every Thursday at 8 p.m. This article is In my article “Sodomy” pub- tion 8 banning gay marriage. Perry v cisco, then that is a denial of equal fice of Personnel Management, Civil a general overview of the subject mat- lished in American Jurisprudence Schwarzenegger, Aug. 4, 2010. protection. There is no rational dif- Action No. 09-10309-JLT, Dist Ct. ter discussed and is not intended as 2d by Lawyers Cooperative Pub- However, enforcement of the order is ference between a gay person in Mass, July 8, 2010. legal advice. No warranty is made by lishing Co., who petitioned for me on hold pending appeal. More than Los Angeles and in San Francisco, Oh, “equal protection,” how the writer or publisher as to its com- to come to America on a working seven million Californians represent- except probably that they drink many mischiefs have been commit- pleteness or correctness at the time of visa to write law books, I wrote that ing 52% of the voters approved beer in Los Angeles but wine in ted in thy name? publication.) HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS State Library System Implements New Changes THE HAWAII STATE PUBLIC dates for loaned library materials by • Smoking is prohibited within Law (Act 295) of 2006. revised 2010 HSPLS Administra- LIBRARY SYSTEM (HSPLS) logging onto the HSPLS website at: 20 feet of any entrance, exit, • Alcoholic beverages are pro- tive Rules, please visit the HSPLS is reminding the public of several www.librarieshawaii.org. window or ventilation intake. hibited on all library property. website at: http://www.li- new administrative rule changes Overdue fines for DVD/Video This change is in compliance brarieshawaii.org/information/rules that recently took effect on August rentals have decreased from $1 with Hawaii’s Smoke-Free For a complete listing of the /adminrules.htm. 5, 2010. per DVD/Video per day to 25 cents Library officials are advising per DVD/Video per day. The rental parents to be aware that overdue fee and loan period for DVDs and fines for children have increased videos are $1.00 per DVD/Video from 15 cents per item per day to and seven days, respectively. 25 cents per item per day. The cur- Among other major rule rent maximum fine of $4.50 per changes that affect library cus- item for children (ages 17 years tomers are: and under) will also increase to • Library Card. A new library $7.50 per item. By implementing card application and renewal this change, overdue fines and the form will inform parents and maximum amount per item will be guardians that they will be the same for all borrowers. held financially responsible for “There are three main benefits any fines, fees or charges in- for converting to a uniform fee curred by a minor whose li- structure,” says State Librarian brary card application they are Richard Burns. “A uniform fee signing. structure is predictable and easy • Replacement Library Card. to remember. It ensures fairness to Hawaii Resident/Military: the all library patrons and encourages cost for adults has decreased our patrons to borrow responsibly.” from $10 to $5. This change Parents are encouraged to makes the $5 cost consistent help their children keep track of due for both juveniles and adults. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 8 AUGUST 14, 2010 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS 7th Annual I Love Liliha dors and farmers market, keiki bouncers, climbing wall, storytelling, dancers, face paint- Festival ing, arts and crafts, live music by the Royal THE VENERABLE NEIGHBORHOOD of Lil- Hawaiian Band, colorful people watching and iha will be hosting the 7th Annual I Love Liliha more.” Festival, which is scheduled for Sunday, Au- State Rep. Corinne Ching has been the gust 29, 2010 from 10 am to 4 pm. driving force behind the event, which is meant Organizers plan to close off a portion of to pump new life in the old community which is Kuakini Street fronting Liliha Bakery and Pizza comprised of some 20,000 residents. She is Hut for the day-long celebration, which in- scheduled to deliver the welcoming and clos- cludes a free health fair, a Spirit of Liliha ing remarks at this year’s event. Awards Program, lion dance and kung fu Free parking will be available at Lanakila demonstration. Elementary, Good Shepherd Pre-School and “Community residents and beyond seek- Pizza Hut. The festival is presented by the ing food, fun, and entertainment will find plenty Hawaii Architectural Foundation. to do at this celebration of a historical neigh- Festival partners include Liliha Bakery, borhood exemplifying all that is ‘local’ in our is- Longs Drugs, L&L Hawaiian Barbecue, Pizza lands,” says festival coordinator, Colette Hut, Finance Factors and Oceanic Time Devou. There will be a health fair, local ven- Warner Cable. Library Happenings KAPOLEI LIBRARY IS CELEBRATING She will discuss her recently-pub- its 6th Anniversary with a series of special lished debut novel “How to Be an programs and events: American Housewife.” Dilloway’s novel tells the story of a Japanese woman who • August 25, 2010 at 6:30 pm—Wanda marries an American soldier at the end of Adams: “What I Learned from Writing World War II, her thorny relationship with ‘The Island Plate.’” Adams has been writ- her American daughter and the trip to ing about food for 30 years. She is the contemporary Japan that changes both of author of “The Island Plate: 150 Years of their lives. The novel had its origins in the Recipes and Food Lore from The Hon- story of Dilloway’s own mother, who was olulu Advertiser” and “The Island Plate also a Japanese war bride and died when II.” She will provide answers to such in- the author was just 20, leaving behind few triguing questions as: “Why do we eat details of the family, culture and experi- odd things like Saloon Pilot crackers and ences that had shaped her life. Originally spam and other odd things?”, “Why is from San Diego, Dilloway now resides in lomi salmon a Hawaiian food when Hawaii Kai where she is working on her salmon aren’t native to Hawaii?” and second novel. “Where did the plate lunch come from?” • September 18, 2010 at 11 am: “Meet Au- • August 26-27, 2010 from 2-5 pm and Au- thor Joe Tsujimoto.” Winner of the 2008 El- gust 28 from 10 am-5 pm—“Beaded liot Cades Award for Literature and a Bookmark Craft for Teens.” Teens are in- finalist for the 2010 William Saroyan Inter- vited to design and create beaded book- national Prize for Writing, Tsujimoto will marks in the Young Adult Section. All read selections from his short story collec- materials will be provided for this make- tion “Morningside Heights: New York Sto- and-take craft. ries.” The stories follow the journey of • August 28, 2010 from 9 am-5 pm— Japanese-American Kenji, from being Friends of Kapolei Library Book Sale. All kicked out of school in 1960s New York to proceeds will provide funds for the li- teaching in Hawaii. Tsujimoto, an English brary’s future programs and special proj- teacher at Punahou School, is the author ects. of two other books “Teaching Poetry Writ- • August 28, 2010 at 10:30 am—Balloon ing to Adolescents” and “Lighting Fires: Monsoon in the Children’s Section. Bal- How the Passionate Teacher Engages loon Monsoon will create a variety of bal- Adolescent Writers.” loon sculptures, including animals and The Friends of Hawaii Kai Public Library is characters for the keiki. sponsoring these programs which are one-hour long and suitable for high school Kapolei Public Library opened in August students and older. 2004 at a cost of $6.9 million and is the 51st branch of the Hawaii State Public Library Aiea Library will offer Preschool Story- System. The modern two-story library build- time in Fall 2010 on Tuesdays at 10:30 am. ing is the second largest and spans 35,000 The storytime program is free and will be square feet. conducted in the Meeting Room. Preschool Storytime will be offered from September 14 Hawaii Kai Library will offer the follow- to October 26 and November 9 to 23, 2010. ing “Meet the Author” programs in September Children ages 2 through 5, accompanied 2010. Admission is free. by an adult, are invited to experience stories, • September 11, 2010 at 11 am: finger plays, songs and a simple make-and- “Meet Author Margaret Dilloway.” take craft. HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 PHILIPPINE NEWS 9 Fitch Affirms 'BB' Credit Rating for Philippines by Paolo ROMERO / said that sustained growth with low Wednesday, August 11, 2010 and stable inflation would support the Philippines ' ratings at their MANILA, Philippines (Xinhua) - current levels. GLOBAL RATINGS AGENCY "While the credit profile has FITCH RATINGS HAS AF- strengthened in some areas since FIRMED the Philippines' long- the ratings were downgraded to term foreign currency Issuer current levels in 2003, Fitch waits Default Rating (IDR) at "BB", indi- for the newly-elected President cating a stable outlook. Benigno Aquino III administration The London-based rating to deliver on promises to boost the agency also affirmed the Philip- chronically-low tax take and main- pines long-term local currency IDR tain fiscal discipline in the 2011 at BB+ with a stable outlook, the budget to support a case for any short-term foreign currency IDR at positive rating action," Colquhoun B and the country ceiling at BB+ . said. Andrew Colquhoun, Head of The Philippines continues to Asia Pacific Sovereigns at Fitch, grapple with a fiscal deficit , which said in a statement that steady in- is expected to reach P325 billion flow of remittances from overseas ($7.23 billion), equivalent to 3.9 Filipino workers, the stable peso percent of GDP, this year. Thin and rising foreign exchange re- revenues can barely cope with ris- serves helped the economy re- ing expenditures. Fitch also noted cover from last year's slowdown. the Philippines has a relatively The Philippines eluded a re- higher government debt at 47 per- cession in 2009 and posted an im- cent of the GDP. pressive 7.3 percent GDP growth in "The Aquino administration the first quarter. Remittances didn't has made a crackdown on tax eva- only support consumption growth sion the centerpiece of its fiscal but also, together with the fast ris- strategy. If the new administration ing outsourcing industry, boosted can deliver on its plans to raise the the current account surplus. revenue take while maintaining a The country's inflation is also broadly disciplined fiscal policy in well managed, which at 3.9 per- the remainder of 2010 and in the cent in July, is within the central 2011 budget plan, it would be pos- bank's target band for this year of itive for the ratings," Fitch said. 3.5 percent to 5.5 percent. Fitch (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 10 PHILIPPINE NEWS AUGUST 14, 2010 Report: Philippine Muslim threats. A copy of the report was Rebels Brace for War seen by The Associated Press. Muslim guerrillas have been by Dino MARAGAY / sumed in the final months of holding combat training and "acqui- Wednesday, August 11, 2010 Aquino's predecessor without sition of logistics to ensure readi- MANILA, Philippines (AP) — HUN- reaching any major accord. ness if the peace talks will not DREDS OF MUSLIM GUER- Aquino, who succeeded Gloria prosper," according to the report, RILLAS HAVE UNDERGONE Macapagal Arroyo on June 30, has adding the rebels plan to intensify COMBAT TRAINING and sought said efforts to turn around his im- kidnappings and extortion to gain more weapons in the southern poverished Southeast Asian nation funds. Philippines to bolster their military will be futile if it continues to be About 230 rebels underwent muscle in case planned peace talks wracked by violent insurgencies. He training on combat tactics for three with the government falter, a military has begun forming negotiation days last March in a hinterland report said Wednesday. teams to resume talks with the Moro camp called Palestine near Butig New President Benigno Aquino rebels and communist guerrillas. township in Lanao del Sur province. III and the 11,000-strong Moro Is- While fresh talks loomed, the Several guerrillas joined a month- lamic Liberation Front have ex- military has monitored at least nine long training on intelligence-gather- pressed readiness to resume separate combat training by hun- ing in the same camp that month dreds of Muslim fighters and recruits while 247 regular fighters were Malaysian-brokered peace negotia- Mark Dannog, a senior at Waianae High School. is sworn in by Hawaii tions as early as September after in their strongholds in southern Min- trained on "rigid jungle warfare" for State Supreme Court Associate Justice Mark Recktenwald as the Board of the Muslim fasting month of Ra- danao region in the first half of the 15 days in the southernmost Education’s new student member on July 14, 2010. Dannog fills the seat madan. The talks collapsed in 2008, year, according to a military report province of Tawi Tawi, the report held bay former student representative Kelly Maeshiro. a 2010 graduate of sparking massive fighting, and re- that assessed national security said. (www.philstar.com) Pearl City High School

and personnel to be assigned to the cause the poll body also ordered Revision committee. Comelec Orders Atienza to them to shoulder the expenses for “Kaya siguro ang ginawa nilang the rental of the PCOS (Precinct basehan ay ang 6,653 precints at Count Optical Scan) machine that hindi ang clustered precints,” he Pay Almost 10-M for Recount will be used for the authentication of said. signed by Comelec First Division based on the 6,653 established the ballots. He pointed out that based on by Paolo ROMERO / “Kaya, marami pang baba- the Comelec computation, the Thursday, August 12, 2010 Presiding Commissioner Rene V. precincts, and not on the 1,441 clus- Sarmineto and Commissioners Ar- tered precincts. yaran gaya ng PCOS na kailangan Chairman of the Revision Commit- MANILA, Philippines -- FORMER mando C. Velasco and Gregorio "This tantamount to discourag- daw naming rentahan. Hindi pa tee will get P345,956.00 for one MANILA MAYOR AND ENVI- Larrazabal. ing the search for truth,” said naming alam kung ilan. Tapos, month recount as compared to RONMENT SECRETARY LITO In the 13-page Order, the Com- Atienza. kailangang din daw magbayad kami P79,932.00 if it will be based on ATIENZA was ordered by the elec said “protestant is hereby di- “What if a protestant is poor ng IT experts para mag-operate ng ‘clustered precints.’ Commission on Elections (Com- rected to pay to the Cash Division, and does not have such amount to PCOS machines,” related Atienza. A Recorder will get elec) to pay almost P10 million cash this Commission, the amount of pay for the start of a recount, would He said the party who raises P159,672.00 in one month in con- deposit as fees for the recount of P9,979,500.00 cash deposit corre- he just accept the fact that he was the question on the authenticity of trast to P34,584.00 based on clus- votes in Manila. sponding to the 6,653 established cheated,” Atienza said. the ballots shall pay for the ex- tered precincts. Atienza earlier filed an election precincts subject of the recount as While they are thankful and penses for the rental of the PCOS Atienza said the receipt of this protest before the Comelec after required in Section 2, Rule 11 of they appreciate the decision of the machine and employment of the IT payment of members of the Revi- being defeated by Manila Mayor Al- Comelec Resolution No. 8804 within Comelec which came out on the expert that will be utilized during the sion committee is prohibited by law fredo Lim in the last May 2010 elec- 5 days from receipt hereof.” date of his birthday, which was Au- recount proceedings. because this would amount to re- tions, The order also noted the re- gust 10, Atienza, however, decried Atienza said he could not un- ceiving compensation, or double During the press conference trieval of the ballot boxes shall be the expensive payment for the re- derstand why the Comelec, which compensation. held at his headquarters in Manila, done immediately upon payment of count of the votes. counted the ballots, are now not sure He said this violates the law Atienza protested the “distorted, ex- the cash deposit and upon prior co- “Why and where does the of its authenticity, and even wanted which prohibits government em- orbitant, unjust and unconscionable” ordination with the Division Clerk of Comelec find the basis for this math- us to rent PCOS machines to check ployees from receiving additional or fees being imposed by the Comelec the Commission. ematical computation when there if they were indeed genuine. double compensation. in its August 10, 2010 ‘Preliminary In protesting the fees to be im- are only 1,441 clustered precincts in Atienza said that during their “They will continue receiving Conference Order” which was posed, Atienza said the fees was Manila . Saan mo ipupuwesto ‘yong campaign period, they spent only their salary from the Comelec with- mga magbibilang ng balota ganoon P3 million, which was premised on out doing their mandated duty while ito lamang ang tamang bilang ng a P3.00 per voter cost. There are at the same time earning from the presinto sa Manila dahil “clustered” about one million voters in Manila , payment for the recount,” said na nga?” asked Atienza. he said. Atienza. If the computation would be “So the amount they are asking However, despite their protes- based on the number of clustered us is much, much bigger than what tation, Atienza assured they will pay precincts in the city, he said the total we spent in the campaign,” noted the “prohibitive” cash deposit any- amount that they should pay the Atienza. time this week. Comelec would only be P2.6 million. Atienza also feared that the “We will raise the money. In He said the fees the Comelec amount they will pay for the recount fact, I already got a P10,000 check is imposing on them is an initial ex- will not go to the nation’s coffers but as financial help from a friend,” said pense and could even go up be- to the pockets of Comelec officials Atienza as he pulled out the check from his front pocket. According to Atienza, they will exhaust all possible legal means in support of their protest. They might even ask the Com- mission on Audit (COA) to probe the exorbitant fees being exacted by Comelec people. Atienza is confident he will emerge victorious after the recount which they hope to start on August 20 or before the end of this month. Atienza’s legal counsel Lawyer Romulo Macalintal said they expect the Comelec to finish the recount within one month. (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 PHILIPPINE NEWS 11 Divorce Bill Revived in House by Paolo ROMERO / existing laws just do not suffice. Get- bill. “I still adhere to the biblical say- Thursday, August 12, 2010 ting an annulment can be very ex- ing that what God had join together, MANILA, Philippines - THE pensive while legal separation will let no man put asunder.” GABRIELA WOMEN’S PARTY- not give estranged couples the right Parañaque Rep. Roilo Golez LIST GROUP has revived a meas- to remarry,” Ilagan said. also objected to the bill, saying “that ure legalizing divorce in the country The measure’s explanatory is like giving a married couple a to give couples in “irreparable mar- note further elaborates on the need Weapon of Mass Destruction that riages” another legal remedy in ad- for a measure to address the com- they can use against each other dition to the country’s existing laws mission of violence in marital rela- even for petty, solvable marital prob- on legal separation and annulment. tions. lems.” Representatives Luzviminda Official figures from the Philip- He said half of his classmates Ilagan and Emerenciana de Jesus pine National Police in 2009 showed at the United States Naval Academy and clothing materials for the child Legarda proposed the amend- filed House Bill 1799 or “An Act In- that 19 women fall victim to marital in Annapolis ended up divorcing for two years from child birth; 15 per- ments to Republic Act No. 8972, oth- troducing Divorce in the Philippines” violence every day. Among the their spouses just a few years after cent discount from all purchases of erwise known as the Solo Parent’s that drew strong opposition and lit- forms of violence and abuse against getting married. baby’s milk, food and food supple- Welfare Act of 2000, to address the tle support from their colleagues in women committed in 2009, wife bat- Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo An- ments; and 15 percent discount financial concerns of solo parents the House of Representatives. tery ranked the highest at 6,783 gara warned that allowing divorce from all purchases of medicine and amidst the economic difficulties that The bill states five grounds for cases or 72 percent. could lead to the proliferation of other medical supplements/ sup- the country is experiencing.” the filing of a petition for divorce. Ac- “For women in abusive marital “gold diggers” and broken families. plies for the child. RH BILL BACKED cording to the measure, couples relationships, the need for a divorce Akbayan party-list Rep. Walden Legarda, who has been legally who may apply for divorce include law is real. It is high time that we Bello, however, backed the meas- separated twice, also sought basic Meantime, Agham Partylist those who have been separated in give Filipino couples, especially the ure, saying the Philippines is the personal exemption from individual Rep. Angelo Palmones yesterday fact for five years and those already women, this option,” De Jesus said. only country with no divorce law. income tax. threw his support behind the contro- legally separated for two years. Cavite Rep. Elpidio Barzaga “Let’s join the 20th century,” “A solo parent refers to a par- versial Reproductive Health bill, say- Grounds for legal separation strongly opposed the bill, saying Bello said. ent who is left alone with the re- ing that couples should be given the may also apply when these same “the family is the foundation of a sponsibility of parenthood due to option to choose what family plan- grounds have already caused the ir- good citizenry.” ADDITIONAL BENEFITS death, detention, mental incapacity ning method to use. reparable breakdown of the mar- “Allowing absolute divorce In a related development, Sen. or legal separation with spouse. It “RH bill is not only about mod- riage. In addition, psychological would undoubtedly weaken the sol- Loren Legarda wants amendments also refers to women who became ern or natural contraceptives. It talks incapacity, causing one’s failure to idarity of the family. It would also en- to the 10-year-old Solo Parents Act, pregnant due to abuse,” she said. about the welfare of the women, it comply with essential marital obliga- courage married couples who have giving additional benefits for single Legarda cited “double hard- talks about the welfare of the chil- tions, and irreconcilable differences differences to immediately seek di- parents. ship” that single parents face in dren, it talks about the relation of causing the irreparable breakdown vorce, though differences can still be In filing Senate Bill 1439, raising their children. population growth to the country’s of the marriage are also recognized reconciled,” Barzaga said. Legarda proposed that single par- “They perform parental duties development,” he said. as grounds for divorce, the bill said. He said he anticipates various ents be provided a 10-percent dis- single-handedly in the face of eco- Palmones said the bill would “We cannot ignore the fact that religious groups to lobby against the count on all purchases of clothing nomic turmoil that is characterized help the government reduce the by skyrocketing prices, poverty and number of pregnancy-related massive unemployment,” she deaths in the country. Angara Urges Congress to added. (www.philstar.com) Pass Anti-Red Tape Measure by Christina M. MENDEZ / Wednesday, August 11, 2010 transactions and consequently will curb op- portunities for graft and corruption. MANILA, Philippines - SEN. EDGARDO Angara, president of the Southeast Asia ANGARA HAS URGED his colleagues in Parliamentarians Against Corruption (SEA- the 15th Congress to pass PAC), noted that bureau- the “Anti–Red Tape Law” in cratic red tape is one of the order to address worsening biggest deterrent to invest- bureaucratic red tape in the ment. “Many government country. offices over-regulate and Through the Anti–Red unnecessarily lengthen the Tape Law, Angara said all procedures for securing agencies and offices that basic government services. provide frontline services are Worse, some government required to regularly undergo employees require “infor- evaluation and moderniza- mal payments” or bribes, tion of their transaction sys- more commonly known as tems and procedures. “lagay,” as a condition to If passed into law, the any action or request,” An- measure will speed up trans- gara said. actions in government of- Angara, who is also the Sen. Ed Angara fices by limiting the action author of Ombudsman Law time on simple and complex transactions. It and the Government Procurement Reform will also limit the signatories of documents to Act, the biggest anti-corruption law in the the officers and employees directly supervis- country, red tape has gravely affected the ef- ing the office where a particular transaction is ficient delivery of government services. being acted upon. “This well-founded perception of iner- “I urge my colleagues in the Senate to tia of government agencies and offices has pursue this because it will ensure the efficient not only frustrated the delivery of vital gov- and effective delivery of government services ernment services to the public, it has also by simplifying procedures as opposed to bur- made potential investors hesitant about densome and complex regulations,” said An- doing business in the country,” he said. gara, saying this is in response to President Because of red-tape and corruption, Aquino’s call to speed up the business in the Angara lamented that the country showed country during his State of the Nation Address poor performance in terms of opening and (SONA) last month. closing businesses, ranking 140th out of The proposed law would require immedi- 181 in the Doing Business 2009 survey. ate action in the handling of government (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 12 FEATURE AUGUST 14, 2010 nine inches diva Jovita Fuentes) to like him someday.” (This wish was portray the Japanese Madama But- aired although the modest Espiritu After 79 Years, Another terfly. But it would be awkward for has already gained a coveted place a petite Filipino soprano to sing in the international scene.) Pinoy Sings at La Scala with a towering Caucasian tenor or Having appeared in several for a towering European or Ameri- roles in France in 2008 and in the can vocal artist to be looking down US, Espiritu looks forward to por- by Rosalinda OROSA on a tiny Oriental lover onstage. traying Tamino in Mozart’s Magic ANILA, Philippines - The Espiritu did suggest that lack Flute with the Israel Opera Tel Aviv, first Filipino to make it to the of height can be an impediment. He Elvino in Bellini’s La Sonambula, M La Scala Opera House in was once refused a role not for lack and Oronte in Handel’s Alcina with Milan, Italy, was bass-baritone Jose of vocal talent; the role went to a Stadt Theater in Switzerland, Mossesgeld Santiago Font who, in six-foot tenor instead! among many others, for the season 1928, portrayed the role of Spara- From whom did Espiritu inherit 2011 and 2012, as well as the tenor fucile in Verdi’s Rigoletto. Almost 80 his gifts? His answer: “I really don’t in Donizetti’s Requiem Mass. years later, tenor Arthur Espiritu of know. Probably from an uncle.” Es- Espiritu makes his not-to-be- Morong, Rizal, succeeds Santiago piritu comes from humble begin- missed Manila debut on Aug. 14 (8 as the second Filipino in La Scala, nings. His father sold fire p.m.) at the Philamlife Theater, with appearing in 2007 as Fernando in extinguishers; his mother served leading, much sought-after soprano Mozart’s Cosi Fan Tutti. Filipino-American tenor Arthur Espiritu performs at Philamlife Theater on Aug. the Philippine Constabulary as sec- Rachelle Gerodias. Each will inter- 14, with soprano Rachelle Gerodias. In Friday’s press conference at retary. pret operatic arias and Filipino the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, the itu’s assertion that it takes very little Opera’s highly acclaimed presenta- Espiritu, a lyric tenor like the songs; they will also render duets modest, unassuming Espiritu sur- to get into La Scala. tion of Britten’s Billy Budd. In the late Luciano Pavarotti, genuinely with equally in-demand pianist prisingly belittled his La Scala en- Indeed, the cast’s preparation same season, he rendered the admires the lyrico/spinto tenor Najib Ismail as assisting artist. gagement, saying, “It doesn’t take for Cosi Fan Tutti took two months tenor’s role in Mozart’s “Coronation Otoniel Gonzaga who has sung in Entitled “Viva Bel Canto (Long much to get into La Scala. You of daily rehearsals for hours on Mass,” performed in Vienna’s 30 major opera houses in Germany Live Beautiful Song),” the classic send your resumé, your CD and if end. Belvedere’s Winners Concert, and and has made a name for himself concert will be the very first to be they like your voice, you’re in.” How did the Filipino tenor feel the Marlboro Music Festival. in the US. Espiritu says, “I admire sponsored by the Klassikal Music Yet when Espiritu, loaded with at his operatic debut? “It was scary. Is the lack of height an imped- Otoniel because firstly, he is a Fil- Foundation chaired by George international awards, sang for the All those huge chandeliers! I kept iment for Orientals? It may be logi- ipino; secondly, because he is a Yang, incidentally, a lyric tenor like press, his brilliant performance - asking myself: ‘What am I doing cal for a Filipina (like the four feet, very fine singer. I hope to become Espiritu. (www.philstar.com) voice rising and ringing resonantly - here?’” Milan’s demanding opera was undeniable proof that only the freaks are known to throw things PHILIPPINE NEWS finest vocal artists make it to the onstage. But everything went sacrosanct halls of La Scala - the smoothly. The cast was very sup- counterpart of New York’s presti- portive and Espiritu gained friends gious Metropolitan Opera House. and admirers. Rediscounting Loans to help banks meet temporary liq- When La Scala invited Espiritu Before his La Scala engage- uidity needs by refinancing the to audition, he had already por- ment in 2007, Espiritu was already Drop 59% in July loans they extend to their clients. trayed the same role for the Pitts- keeping a full opera schedule since Monetary authorities use re- burgh Opera but he had to buy the receiving an Artist Diploma from by Lawrence AGCAOLI / by 59 percent as of end-July as discounting loans as a monetary score in Vienna all over again be- Oberlin Conservator of Music in Wednesday, August 11, 2010 monetary authorities lifted crisis- tool to regulate liquidity. cause the iconic judges - divas 2004. He sang as Ormindo in Cav- related measures to siphon off ex- Since the start of the year, the Mirella Freni, Teresa Berganza and alli’s L’Ormindo, was Tybalt in MANILA, Philippines - TOTAL cess liquidity in the financial BSP has lifted several liquidity-en- Luigi Avila - keenly wanted to hear Gounod’s Romeo and Juliet, Beppo REDISCOUNTING LOAN system, the Bangko Sentral ng hancing measures introduced him sing some of the arias and (a clown) in Leoncavallo’s I Pagli- AVAILMENTS by banking insti- Pilipinas (BSP) reported yester- starting November of 2008 in light recitatives. Again this belied Espir- acci, and Maintop in Pittsburg tutions continued to drop, plunging day. of the strong economic recovery. It Data showed that the total would be recalled that monetary availments under the BSP’s peso authorities introduced several cri- rediscount facility reached P44.22 sis-related measure in November billion from January to July this 2008 to release more liquidity into year or P63.9 billion lower than the the financial system to cushion the P108.12 billion availed of in the impact of the global financial crisis. same period last year. Since January, the central About 55 percent of the total bank tweaked several measures rediscounting loans availed of by including the increase in the rate commercial, thrift, and rural banks on a short-term lending facility to went to commercial credits while four percent from 3.5 percent as 27.3 percent went to other serv- well as the reduction of the peso ices, 8.8 percent to capital expen- rediscounting budget from P60 bil- ditures, 2.9 percent to permanent lion to P40 billion and further to working capital, and 1.7 percent to P20 billion. housing. The central bank also re- Furthermore, about 4.3 per- stored the loan value of all eligible cent of the total availments under rediscounting papers to 80 percent the Peso Rediscount facility went from 90 percent of the borrowing to agricultural and industrial credits bank’s credit instrument and at the while only less than 0.1 percent same time revived the non-per- went to microfinance. forming loan (NPL) ratio require- Under the Exporters’ Dollar ment of two percentage points and Yen Rediscounting Facility, from 10 percentage points above aggregate availments under the the latest available industry aver- US dollar facility jumped 54.3 per- age NPL for banks wishing to avail cent to $57.1 million in the first of the rediscounting facility. seven months of the year from $37 However, authorities decided to million in the same period last keep its key policy rates at record year. The facility benefitted 24 ex- lows due to benign inflation outlook. porters from January to July this The BSP slashed its key policy rates year. by 200 basis points between De- The BSP said there was no cember of 2008 to July of 2009 availment under the Yen facility bringing the overnight borrowing during the period. rate at a record low of four percent Rediscounting is a standing and the overnight lending rate at credit facility provided by the BSP six percent. (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 LEGAL NOTES 13 Good Moral Character Requirement legiance to the United States with- people fit in a prohibited class if for Naturalization out any doubt or reservation. How- they profess, advocate, or are affil- ever modifications will be allowed iated with groups that are anarchist, Certain behavior patterns and that results in the dissolution of a vi- on the basis of moral or religious communist, totalitarian, saboteurs, criminal activities are grounds for able marriage and intentional fail- beliefs. Males must register with and have published subversive ma- disqualification. The applicant ure to support dependents are the Selective Service to prove that terial. Deserters of the United must not have established a record explicitly mentioned as conduct that they are “well disposed” and “at- States and those who fled to avoid of violence or repeated criminal ac- will cause disqualification. tached” to the United States. the draft military are barred from tivity. Furthermore, actions that have Registration in the Selective naturalization. People under de- by Reuben S. Commission of the following resulted in illegitimate children that Service is an important requirement portation proceedings are prohib- are grounds for disqualification: cor- become wards of the state may pre- and is fundamental to good moral ited from naturalization. Applicants SEGURITAN ruption, fraud, and perjury, violation clude a determination of good moral character and establishing the “well relieved from military service not of drug laws of the United States or character. Situations that suggest disposed” and “attached” stan- through an honorable discharge ood moral character as a re- any foreign country, admitting to any sexual deviance such as incest also dards. All men between the ages are also barred from naturalization. quirement for naturalization is criminal act, taking part in illegal are detrimental to a finding of good of 18 and 26 not subject to exemp- The good moral character re- G “measured by the standard of commercialized vice, including moral character. Applicants should tion must register and provide proof quirement may be daunting for the community, but does not nec- human trafficking and prostitution, take special care in providing an ex- of registration to USCIS. By know- some applicants. It is in the appli- essarily require the highest degree practice of polygamy, or being a ha- planation for such activity. ingly and willingly failing to register cant’s best interest to disclose all in- of moral excellence.” bitual drunkard. Murder and aggra- Applicants must establish that in the Selective Service, the appli- formation and ensure that all The relevant period for deter- vated crimes are grounds for they are “well disposed” and “at- cant casts doubt on his “disposi- answers provided to the USCIS will mining good moral character is 5 immediate denial of the application. tached” to the government of the tion” and “attachment” towards the not lead to disqualification under the years (or 3 years if married to a cit- An applicant lacks good moral United States. Broadly speaking, United States and shows his un- good moral character standard. izen) preceding the filing of the ap- character if his or her conduct the applicant must be not hostile to willingness to bear arms on behalf plication. However the applicant’s within the applicable period is de- the American system of govern- of the United States when legally REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has been prac- structive to family unless he or she ment and must support the United conduct and acts prior to the period required to do so. ticing law for over 30 years. For further in- may be taken into account but will is able to establish extenuating cir- States Constitution. There are also classes of ap- formation, you may call him at (212) 695 not be the sole basis for denial of cumstances. As it relates to con- Applicants must be willing to plicants that are prohibited from 5281 or log on to his website at www.seguri- the application. duct destructive to family, adultery take the full oath or affirmation of al- naturalizing. Broadly speaking, tan.com MAINLAND NEWS ily budgets, government has be- come the only sector of the econ- omy that has not faced cuts during U.S. House Passes State Bail Out Bill this recession.” THE U.S. HOUSE OF REPRE- lack of revenues. spend, and spend some more,” he so-called ‘stimulus’ was passed. Djou calls the measure mis- SENTATIVES has approved an- U.S. Rep. Charles Djou op- says. “Notwithstanding all this It’s time to change the priorities in guided, wasteful and unfair to other round of “stimulus” spending, posed the measure, which passed spending, our economic woes Washington.” Hawaii residents. this time totaling $26.1 billion in by a final vote of 247-161. have only worsened. The national Other critics of the measure, “The State of Hawaii has a what critics say is a bailout for “For every single problem fac- unemployment rate continues to which was approved last week by balanced budget amendment and bankrupt states that are not doing ing our nation, the answer from hover near double digits and we the U.S. Senate, say it’s simply an- is required to not spend more than enough to cut spending despite Congress has been to spend, have lost 2.5 million jobs since the other gratuity for public employee the Hawaii taxpayer can afford,” he unions. says. “Hawaii has made the tough “The House has voted to side choices required to balance its RP Officials Lay Groundwork for with bankrupt states and greedy books but this bill will force Hawaii public teachers unions and to re- taxpayers to bail out other states ject the concerns of taxpayers, who have made no such efforts.” Aquino’s US Visit who are being saddled with a Of the measure’s total spend- mountain of debt that cannot pos- ing, $16.1 billion goes toward 6 ad- he shared. NEW YORK—TWO KEY MEM- sibly be paid,” says Bill Wilson, ditional months of increased Domingo is hopeful that BERS OF THE AQUINO admin- president of Americans for Limited Federal matching funds for Medi- the positive buzz generated istration are in the USt o lay the Government (ALG). “While Ameri- caid and $10 billion is to supple- during PNoy’s first month in of- ground work for President Benigno Consul Zaldy Patron, Consul General cans struggle to balance their fam- ment State education budgets. Aquino III’s visit to the country next fice will translate to more in- Cecilia Rebong, DTI Secretary Gregory month, his first official trip abroad. vestments in the Philippines. Domingo, DTI Assistant Secretary Fe AJPress photo by Momar G Visaya Department of Trade and In- They are looking for investors Reyes. dustry Secretary Gregory Domingo for the country’s various infrastruc- too much of the people’s money. So and Finance Secretary Cesar ture projects. he is very conscious about the ex- Purisima have been meeting with Investors can enter into a pub- penses." various American companies in lic-private partnership (PPP) with While no official dates have New York to boost trade and eco- the government if they want to fund been released, Consul General Ce- nomic relations between the United- any of the government’s initiatives. cilia Rebong said that the trip may States and the Philippines. Sec. Among the six priority areas for in- be in time for the UN General As- Domingo sat down with the Fil-Am vestment are tourism, business sembly scheduled for September 22 press in New York to report on the process outsourcing (BPO), elec- to 24. development in these meetings. tronics, mining, housing and food "We dont have the schedule yet "We are meeting with a variety of security. but I assume that he will be entering companies and people; BP Among these industries how- the US through LA or SF since he is Os, call center providers, infra- ever, BPO is the fastest-growing in- using a commercial flight," ConGen structure funds, and we are looking dustry sector, with nine billion pesos Rebong said. at the possibilities of them investing in revenue and employing more For his message to the com- in the Philippines," Domingo said. than 500,000 Filipinos. munity, Sec. Domingo said, "The The secretary also explained "The feedback has been very Aquino administration will try its best that the primary purpose of their trip positive so far. The prognosis is to make the government system is to "lay the groundwork for PNoy’s good, and we can offer a better work by being transparent, following visit in September." They hope to business environment for the in- good governnance rules. Let us put together trade agreements that vestors," Domingo said. support the president in his efforts. could be signed during the Presi- Regarding the president’s up- You will see results very quickly be- dent’s US visit. coming trip, Domingo said that cause we have a target of 2 years, "We are hoping to bring home PNoy is "excited to visit but I think and we hope to see significant ac- substantial investments when the he wants to limit his foreign trips be- complishments made within that pe- President comes here next month," cause of his promise not to spend riod." (www.asianjournal.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 14 MAINLAND NEWS AUGUST 14, 2010 Hillary Clinton, at a July meeting of US Urged to Bolster RP Defense Against the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Hanoi, sig- naled a change in the US position China Over Territorial Dispute by directly confronting China. Clinton said conflicting claims by Jose KATIGBAK / dent Aquino, US analysts and for- over contested South China Sea Wednesday, August 11, 2010 eign policy experts have called for areas should be resolved through a more robust US military assis- regional discussions and solutions WASHINGTON – THE UNITED tance to the Philippines to counter instead of on a one-on-one basis STATES SHOULD CONSIDER “China’s aggressive action in the as preferred by China. LEASING big-ticket military hard- South China Sea.” Lyons said now that President ware to the Philippines to give it In his commentary on Mon- Barack Obama’s administration the capability to defend its sover- day, Lyons said former President has directly challenged China, the eign territory against Chinese ex- Arroyo, in return for billions of dol- US should expand its relations pansionism in the South China lars poured into the Philippines, with ASEAN “by building on our Sea, a former head of the US Pa- provided unfettered access to chain and new facilities in the Palawan Strait, one of the key Mutual Defense Treaty with the cific Fleet said. China and signed 65 bilateral Spratly Island chain. strategic sea lanes in the Western Philippines.” Retired Navy Adm. James agreements with it, including an oil Lyons said that in 1995, China Pacific. This, he said, poses a mil- The US should negotiate a Lyons, in a commentary in the ed- exploration undertaking in 2004 built a facility on Mischief Reef, itary threat to the Philippines and commercial agreement for access itorial pages of The Washington shrouded in controversy as it may which is clearly recognized to be in the security of the sea-lanes to logistic support facilities in Subic Times, said the US should con- have conceded territorial waters to the Philippine economic zone. And through which much of the world’s Bay. sider leasing a squadron of F-16 the Chinese. last year, a retired People’s Liber- trade passes. “The new Philippine president along with T-38 supersonic train- He said after the US left the ation Army deputy chief of the gen- He said that for the past 15 will come under intense pressure ers, an aircraft for maritime patrol, Philippines in 1991, China unilat- eral staff called for the construction years, US policy on this issue has from China to prevent any expan- and two FFG-7 guided-missile erally declared sovereignty over of a formal air and naval base on been adrift and Washington has sion of US activities. However, nei- frigates to provide a recognized various disputed islands in the Mischief Reef. failed to confront Beijing over its il- ther we nor the new Philippine capability to enforce the Philip- South China Sea, and started Lyons said such a base would legal actions in any meaningful government should be deterred by pines’ offshore territorial claims. building an air and naval base on allow the PLA to place naval, air way. Chinese bluster from doing what is Since the election of Presi- Woody Island in the Paracel Island and missile forces astride the However, Secretary of State right,” Lyons said. (www.philstar.com) GLOBAL NEWS Clark Freeport Chosen as Among World's Top Investment Destinations CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga, Mauritius. title “Global Free Zones of the Fu- Philippines – THE FDI MAGA- The “most cost effective” cat- ture for 2010 and 2011.” ZINE, PUBLISHED BY THE egory was based on the cost of The CDC said that Clark PRESTIGIOUS LONDON- doing business, lease rates, labor, landed 19th in FDI Magazine’s BASED The Financial Times and power and water cost. overall top 25 free zones of the fu- Business Group, has picked this CDC said Clark freeport was ture, besting economic centers in freeport as the world’s “most cost also ranked by the FDI Magazine Lithuania, Dubai, Croatia, India, effective” among some 700 eco- as seventh in its top 10 investment Bahrain, South Korea and even nomic zones it considered world- zones with the “best economic po- South Carolina’s Foreign Trade wide. tential. The others in the top 10 in Zones 21 and 38 in the US. The Clark Development Corp the category included the city of CDC president Benigno Ri- (CDC) said that Clark was chosen San Luis Potosi in Mexico, fol- cafort said “the recognition boosts in the category which was also lowed closely by Industrial Estates Clark’s reputation as a world-class closely contested by other “invest- in Thailand and the Jebel Ali Free investment destination.” overseas investment across the reduced to 200 based on informa- ment destinations” in Poland, Mex- Zone in the UAE. “With this, we have all the world in several continents includ- tion collected by FDI benchmark ico, Latvia, United Arab Emirates, The list of top zones was pub- more reason to pursue programs ing Asia, the United States, Eu- and information submitted by the Thailand, Africa, Bangladesh and lished in the magazine under the that would make Clark excel in rope and the Middle East. zones, “ Ricafort noted. global competitiveness, quality The magazine focuses prima- These zones included free- customer service and corporate rily on news on foreign direct in- trade zones, special economic social responsibility,” Ricafort said. vestments and in- depth analysis zones and country zones. The in- The FDI Magazine is an Eng- of corporate climate worldwide. formation collected was set under lish-language bi-monthly news and “More than 700 economic eight categories: Economic poten- foreign direct investment publica- zones globally were invited by FDI tial, cost effectiveness, facilities, tion owned by The Financial Times Magazine to complete a survey re- transportation , incentives, FDI Business Group and edited in Lon- questing both qualitative and promotion strategy and, for those don. It has a readership of 47,000 quantitative data regarding their relevant, airports and ports. senior decision makers involved in zones. This list of 700 was further (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION AUGUST 14, 2010 15 CLASSIFIED ADS BUSINESS HONOLULU-PAUOA VALLEY Vacation Pay, Paid Holidays and Sick Leave. 30+ year DIRECTORY Quiet neighborhood with mountain view & cool breeze old company. 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COVO 23RD ANNUAL STATEWIDE CON- ANNUAL COVO PICNIC / SUNDAY Contact: Alma B. Phocas at (808) 754- VENTION / SATURDAY August 15, 2010 ● Keehi Lagoon Park, 1399 or email [email protected]; August 14, 2010 ● Philippine Consulate Honolulu ● 10 am - 4 pm ● Contact: [email protected] General, Pali Highway ● 8 - 4 pm ● Con- Richard Ancog at 383-3691 or Erwin tact: Richard Ancog, 383-3691 Gabrillo at 282-4186 55TH OAHU COUNCIL OF FILIPINO CATHOLIC CLUB ANNUAL CHARITY 5TH LAPU-LAPU AWARDS DINNER & UP ALUMNI ASSOCIATION (HAWAII QUEEN PAGEANT AND SCHOLARSHIP GALA / SATURDAY CHAPTER) BIENNIAL BANQUET AND AWARDS CELEBRATION / SATURDAY August 14, 2010 ● Dole Ballrooms at Iwilei INSTALLATION OF NEW OFFICERS / August 28, 2010 ● St. Anthony’s ● 6 - 11:30 pm ● $45 per person ● Contact: SATURDAY Church, Kalihi at 640 Puuhale Road ● Jun Colmenares, 485-0390 August 28, 2010 ● Hale Koa Hotel ● Contact: Mr. Prudencio Pilar at 351- 0728 ● RSVP no later than August 21 GLOBAL NEWS Filipina Maid Inherits Millions from nent residency in Singapore, says her Singaporean Employer newfound wealth has not changed her lifestyle. A FILIPINA MAID INHERITED 6 mil- their abductors. “I do not really think much about the lion Singapore dollars ($4.3 million) from The inheritance, including cash and a money I got. I just live my life as I did be- her late employer after more than 20 years luxury apartment near the Orchard Road fore, and not as a rich person,” she says. of service. shopping area, came from the estate of “I am still who I was before. I cannot be- “I am the luckiest maid in Singapore, the late Quek Kai Miew, a medical doctor have differently because I have money with or without the money,” says the 47- and philanthropist who died last year at now. Even my Filipino maid friends here year-old single woman—identified only as 66. still treat me the same.” “Christine”—during a recent media inter- The maid also took care of the doc- Nearly 200,000 foreign maids, view. She refused to be named for fear of tor’s late mother and was told she would mostly from the Philippines and Indone- possible threats to her life in the Philip- be a beneficiary of her employer’s will sia, work in affluent Singapore, which pines, where wealthy people have been when it was drawn up in 2008. has a population of five million. (Good kidnapped for ransom and some killed by The maid, who is applying for perma- News Pilipinas) iRemit Sets Up Second Italy Branch in them employed as domestic workers, with the company as part of its thrust to ag- Milan a few nurses and staff in the service sec- gressively grow the business and expand MANILA, Philippines - I-REMIT INC. tors and factories. into territories where its presence has not (IREMIT), THE COUNTRY’S “The steady deployment and demand yet been established. LARGEST Filipino-owned non-bank re- for our Filipino workers are the primary “In line with our vision to be the ulti- mittance company, has set up shop in driving forces of the company. As more mate choice remittance service provider, Milan – its second branch in Italy – as part and more Filipinos go to other countries to we are constantly pushing to establish our of an aggressive expansion overseas. earn a living and provide better lives for presence in areas where most of our fel- In its disclosure to the Philippine their families back home, i-Remit also en- low Filipinos reside, whether temporarily Stock Exchange, iRemit said Milan is one sures that it will be there to provide them or permanently. The challenges that beset of the most frequented overseas Filipino better assistance and guarantee that the the company should be seen as opportu- worker (OFW) destinations and com- fruits of their hard-earned labor will be nities for us to look into other venues prises about 32 percent of Filipinos in easily accessed by their beneficiaries in where we could serve more markets. RENTAL Italy. The first branch in Italy opened in the Philippines,” said iRemit chairman and And, we will continue to tap the markets Rome last April. chief executive officer Bansan Choa. where we previously had no presence,” The estimated number of OFWs in The opening of the Milan branch is iRemit president and chief operating offi- Milan stands at about 34,000, most of just one of the many initiatives lined up by cer Harris Jacildo said. (www.philstar.com) HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE - NEWS EDITION 16 AUGUST 14, 2010