WEEKLY ISSUE 70 CITIES IN 11 STATES ONLINE Vol. IX Issue 401 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 [email protected] Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 MNLF aids gov’t forces Jets derail 49’ers NFTC to work with Trump Emotional Geronimo D&B opens in D.C.

PH NEWS | A2 SPORTS NEWS | A5 WORLD NEWS | A9 ENTERTAINMENT | B7 COMMUNITY | B8 Duterte fires 92 officials from Self-confessed hitman claims transportation, immigration & Duterte sometimes watched other gov’t agencies for corruption By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent slain victims get chopped up At least 92 employees of the two frontline agencies regulating land transport, four of them ranking officials, have been sacked in what could be the largest en By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent masse dismissal of government personnel as part of President Duterte’s intensi- fied campaign against corruption.

BI Commissioners Michael Robles (left) and Al Argosino (right) (photo: www.interaksiyon.com)

Before this, Duterte asked all officials and employees of the Energy Regula- tory Commission (ERC) to resign following the suicide of the chairman of its bids and awards committee, who was allegedly pressured to approve anomalous deals. TO PAGE A4

Edgar Matobato 8 trillion pesos for 6 years needed for (photo: www.smninews.com) PH to be at China’s & Thailand’s level Self-confessed Davao Death Squad Matobato with murder, kidnapping, Vice-mayor Paolo Duterte, Philippine (DDS) hitman Edgar Matobato filed a violation of the Anti-Torture Act, Phil- National Police Chief Director General By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent criminal complaint before the Office ippine Act on Crimes Against Interna- Ronald Dela Rosa and 25 others were of the Ombudsman against President tional Humanitarian Law, Genocide, also charged by Matobato. Infrastructure spending in the Rodrigo Duterte and 27 others. and Other Crimes Against Humanity. Matobato’s lawyer Jude Sabio filed magnitude of PHP 8 trillion is needed over the next six years to allow the Duterte was charged by Edgardo The President’s son, Davao City TO PAGE A4 Philippines to catch up with Thailand and China and steer the country’s Debate with Duterte on drug killings Senators divided over report economy into an investment-led growth that could free some six million or no probe, UN rapporteur told on extra-judicial killings Filipinos from extreme poverty. Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III This was revealed by Finance Sec. By Macon Araneta (photo: www.bworldonline.com) TO PAGE A7 FilAm Star Correspondent “People of the Philippines, your President is a murderer,” said Sen. Duterte bans Miss Universe swimsuit competition Leila De Lima as she tagged Presi- dent Rodrigo Duterte the “Father of in Davao, welcomes emcee Steve Harvey extra-judicial killings” who ordered the By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent killing of Albuera, Leyte Mayor Roland Espinosa, inside the subprovincial jail The swimsuit competition for the in Leyte last November 5. much-anticipated 2016 Miss Universe “Nothing can be clearer than that,” pageant will be held in Cebu after stressed De Lima, the staunchest critic President Rodrigo Duterte reminded of the President in the Senate. the Department of Tourism (DOT) and organizers about the existing ban on Foreign Secretary Perfecto Yasay (left) and U.N. special rapporteur on EJK Agnes Callamard (right) De Lima held as incriminating Du- (photos: www.japantimes.co.jp / www.ipinst.org) terte’s remark that he would not allow swimsuits for beauty contestants in the policemen involved in the killing of Davao City, said Tourism Undersecre- DOT USec. Kat De Castro (left) and Ms. Universe tary Katherine de Castro. PHNOM PENH—The government will insist that the UN rapporteur on sum the Albuera mayor to go to jail. 2015 Pia Wurtzbach (right) TO PAGE B6 TO PAGE A4 (photo: www.politics.com.ph) TO PAGE A7 A2 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 ph news MNLF aids gov’t forces in fighting Abu Sayyaf PNP to forego taping gun muzzle By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent ceremony this holiday season By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent The military acknowl- “They were released by the validated through intelligence edged the support of the Moro ASG captors to Moro National reports that 10 Abu Sayyaf MANILA -- The Philippine PNP has been sealing National Liberation Front Liberation Front commander (members) were killed and 6 National Police (PNP) will forego muzzles of guns. But how (MNLF), which once sowed Tahir Sali in Indanan town after were wounded. Actually, we a longtime yearly tradition of will the people see that terror for being excluded in the being pressured by non-stop know where they live because sealing their gun muzzles with the police are disciplined government’s peace initiatives military operations and pres- the civilian populace also con- tapes during the Christmas and and responsible enough?” with Muslim rebels, in the effort sure by the MNLF,” Tan said. firmed to us,” he added. New Year revelry to observe dis- Cascolan said. to neutralize the Abu Sayyaf In the offensive, at least Tan said during the en- cipline among its members and Furthermore, Cascol- terror group. three soldiers were also killed counter, ground artilleries and to combat indiscriminate firing an assured the public that Maj. Filemon Tan Jr., while 21 others were wounded air supports were also provided among its rank. the non-sealing of gun to engaging soldiers on the In a report by the Philippine muzzles will not result to ground. News Agency (PNA) at a press cases of indiscriminate conference in Camp Crame, Que- firing among their ranks The Westmincom spokes- (Photo from The National Police’s (PNP) Of- zon City last, December 13, PNP and will see to it that their man said that there were ficial Facebook Page) Public Information Office (PIO) members will abide by the reports that some of the Abu Chief and spokesman Senior rules in the use of their the organization on its very own Sayyaf Group sub-leaders were Supt. Dionardo Carlos said that in service firearms. policemen such that we need also wounded but they have to their last command conference, “By doing that, (the people) to require unit commanders to confirm and verify the informa- a proposal to forego the putting will be able to trust the PNP and physically put a tape around the tion on the ground. of tape on the muzzle of the guns our credibility will be raised,” muzzle of the firearms of police- He said the slain and had been approved by PNP Chief Cascolan said. men,” Constantino said, accord- wounded Abu Sayyaf militants Director General Ronald “Bato” In another report by GMA ing to SunStar Cagayan de Oro. were identified already. Tan Dela Rosa. News, based on the data they Constantino also clarified said there were no immediate ”Basically, the leadership gathered, since 2012, most of the that the PNP leadership trusts sightings of any kidnap victims of the PNP believes that this is victims of indiscriminate firing of and treats every policeman as a during the encounter. a disciplined organization and guns during Christmas and New responsible officer and gun holder Western Mindanao Command spokesperson Maj. Filemon Tan Jr. “However, we believed so members of the PNP down to the Year are children while according and reminded police officers to (Photo: www.untvradio.com) that some of the hostages may patrolman on the ground... the to the December 2015 records use their service firearms when be at the rear position of the PNP chief trusts they are disci- from the Department of Health’s “extremely necessary in the line spokesman of the Western Min- from the government side in the engaging militants because the plined and professional enough National Epidemiology Center, of duty.” danao Command of the Philip- more than two-hour encounter signs that the kidnap victims that they know what is the right two of the stray bullet victims On the other hand, PRO- pine Army, said on Monday that Saturday at Bud (Mountain) are there is that the Abu Sayyaf thing to do,” Carlos said. accounted for were nine-year-old Northern Mindanao spokesper- Carlos further explained girls. son Superintendent Surki Sereñas at least 10 Abu Sayyaf militants Taming, Barangay Kabuntakas, Group are not retreating im- that although taping the muzzle However, according to GMA explained that this is the initiative have been killed and six other Patikul town. mediately in the encounter to of (government-issued guns) by News Research, the number of “only” of the Northern Mindanao members wounded in the of- Tan said troops from the buy time for the rest of their PNP personnel is “a symbolic way victims caused by stray bullets Police while other PNP regional fensive operation in the jungle 35th Infantry Battalion (35th companions to slip out their in the previous years of remind- and indiscriminate firing is on a offices can keep and follow the of Patikul town in Sulu because IB) clashed with 150 militants captives,” he said. ing our personnel not to use their downward trend from 44 cases practice of gun muzzle taping this of the MNLF’s assistance. led by Abu Sayyaf senior leader Tan said reports they gath- guns (during the revelry) it’s a in 2010, the number of victims holiday season. Tan said the relentless Radullan Sahiron, and sub- ered showed the Abu Sayyaf are violation (of the law)” and noted dropped to 13 in 2015. “The yearly PNP tradition of pressure exerted by the military leaders Hatib Hajan Sawad- still holding 20 foreigners and that the view of the PNP chief Taping of gun muzzles show taping the muzzle of firearms is and the MNLF on the Abu jaan, Yasser Igasan, and Mujer five locals. is that “the leadership trusts his distrusts among PNP ranks supposed to be held simultane- Sayyaf Group resulted in the re- Yadah. According to him, the Joint personnel -- they are professional The Police Regional Office ously across the region and all lease of the last two Indonesian Tan said the casualty figure Task Force Sulu continued to and disciplined enough that we (PRO)-Northern Mindanao will units are ready. I guess the media fishermen held by the terrorists of the Abu Sayyaf Group was onduct pursuit operations and don’t need really to put tape on also abide by the PNP’s plan to are also all set to cover the activ- in Sulu. The freed Indonesians verified on the ground following intensified further the conduct the muzzles of their firearms just forego gun muzzle taping this ity However, the directive is clear. were identified as Mohammad the continuous pursuit. of focused military operations to remind them.” holiday season to encourage disci- We will forego with the firearms Nazer and Robin Peter, the “The fact that the en- to rescue the remaining kidnap In a phone interview with pline and responsibility among muzzle taping,” Sereñas told last two of seven crew of the counter went on for a longer victims and neutralize the Abu The Philippine Daily Inquirer, the policemen in the region. SunStar. Tugboat Charles 00 kidnapped period confirmed that there Sayyaf in Sulu. PNP’s Directorate for Opera- According to Northern Min- In a report by The Philippine tions Chief Spt. Camilo Cascolan danao Police Regional Director Daily Inquirer, Northern Mindan- by the bandits off the waters of were severalkilled and wounded Tan said the transport of explained that the decision to Chief Superintendent Noel Con- ao Police Regional Director Chief Simisa, Sulu last June. from the Abu Sayyaf Group be- the newly-released victims from forego this yearly tradition is to stantino, he is confident enough Superintendent Noel Constantino He attributes the release cause they have to retrieve and Sulu to Zamboanga City and show that the members of the that discipline and responsibility while quoting PNP Chief Dela of the victims to the pressure withdraw their casualties. That their subsequent turnover to PNP are “disciplined and respon- will discourage indiscriminate Rosa reiterated that any members exerted by non-stop military is why they have to stick in the Indonesian authorities are now sible enough” when it comes to firing among their policemen this of the police force who will violate operations of Joint Task Force fighting to get time in retrieving being arranged and facilitated the legal handling of their service holiday season. the directive “will be severely Sulu and pressure from the their casualties,” he said. by the Joint Task Force Sulu. firearms. “The practice of muzzle dealt with to the fullest extent of MNLF. “We have confirmed and “For how many years, the taping only shows the distrust of the law.” Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star A3 ph news Adult joblessness lowest in almost Bill seeks to impose permits on nine years – national survey foreign nationals working in PH By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent

MANILA -- In the latest survey while 28 percent of Filipino adults In a text message sent to Busi- The House committee on agreements. by Social Weather Stations (SWS) believed that it will not change and nessWorld, Presidential Communica- for the third quarter of 2016, adult 13 percent of them said that it will tions Secretary Martin Andanar said labor and employment approved “It is a way for the country to joblessness among Filipinos eased to decrease. that the “the lower joblessness rate is a a consolidated proposal seeking determine if there is a short supply 18.4 percent, the lowest level in almost “This gave a Net Optimism on job result of the Duterte administration’s to boost the regulation of employ- of workers in specific industries, nine years. availability score of +31 (percent more policy of attracting investments and ment of all foreign nationals in the occupations and professions which The Third Quarter 2016 Social jobs minus percent fewer jobs), clas- enhancing the inclusiveness of growth country by imposing penalty on probably inhibits the country Weather Survey which was taken from sified by SWS as very high. This is an by creating more jobs.” those who transfer employment from increased productivity and September 24-27, 2016 found that an 8-point increase from the high +23 in Unemployment eased in October without the prior approval of the industry development. It includes estimated 8.2 million Filipino adults April 2016,” the SWS report said. In a report by Reuters and ABS- Secretary of Labor and Employ- a provision for training of Filipino were jobless. “The SWS terminology for Net CBN News, unemployment rate in ment, among others. understudies to transfer skills According to SWS, the fielded Optimism on job availability: +30 and October 2016 dropped by 4.7 percent data is 3.3 points below the 21.7 (or an above, “very high”; +20 to +29, “high”; with an estimated 2.04 million Filipi- The committee chaired by and technology from the foreign estimated 10.0 million Filipino adults) +10 to +19, “fair”; +1 to +9, “medio- nos still without jobs, the Philippine Cagayan Rep. Randolph Ting national,” said Nograles. in June 2016, and 3.5 points below cre”; -9 to zero, “low”; -10 and down, Statistics Authority (PSA) said last approved House Bill 277 au- Moreover, increased fines and compared to the 2015 annual average “very low”,” SWS added. December 13. thored by Davao City Rep. Karlo penalties for violations by foreign of 21.9 percent. Unemployment declines among “Among the regions, CALABAR- Alexei Nograles and Partylist Rrp. nationals are also updated to ad- “This is the lowest joblessness women and 25-34 year olds ZON (6.2 percent), National Capital Jericho Nograles in consolidation dress inflation since the law was rate in almost nine years, since the 17.5 SWS noted that compared to Region (NCR) (5.9 percent), Central with House Bill 710 filed by Aurora enacted almost four decades ago. percent in December 2007,” the SWS June 2015’s result, adult joblessness Luzon (5.7 percent), Ilocos Region Rep. Bellaflor Angara-Castillo. The substantial amendment report noted. among women dropped by 7.0 points (5.4 percent), and Central Visayas (5.1 Cagayan Rep. Randolph S. Ting SWS also noted that the Third from 33.1 percent in June to 26.1 percent) were the regions with the Nograles, chairman of the to Article 40 provides that “All (Photo: www.congress.gov.ph) Quarter report on adult joblessness percent in September. highest unemployment rates,” the PSA House committee on appropria- non-resident foreign nationals rate consisted of those who: “This is the lowest since 25.6 report read. tions, said one of the country’s seeking employment in the Philip- ident foreign national, who shall • voluntarily left their old jobs at percent in September 2011,” SWS According to the data, there were commitments to the World Trade pines shall obtain an employment take up employment in violation 8.0 percent (est. 3.6 million adults) – explained. nearly 41.7 million Filipinos employed Organization (WTO)-General permit from the Department of of the provision of this bill and its or a 2.3 points drop from 10.3 percent In men, adult joblessness hardly as of October compared to 41 million Agreement on Trade in Service Labor and Employment.” implementing rules and regula- in June to 8.0 percent in September. changed from 12.7 percent in June to estimated as of July with the Philip- (GATS) is to review the restric- The amendment further pro- tions, as well as the employer or • involuntarily lost their jobs 12.9 percent in September and had pine population of over 100 million. tions in Title II, Article 40 of P.D. vides that “An employment permit the responsible person repre- (due to economic circumstances been below 20 percent since March In July, there were 2.34 million senting the employer, shall be beyond their control, termed as the 2014 after a fall from 21.2 percent in jobless Filipinos with the labor force 442, as amended. may be issued to non-resident retrenched) at 7.4 percent (est. 3.3 December 2014. participation rate estimated at 63.6 The main restriction in the foreign national subject to the punished with a fine or not less million adults) – it rose by 0.7 point Depending on age group, adult percent in October versus the 63.3 hiring of a foreign national is the Labor Market Test based on the than PHP 50,000 nor more than from 6.7 percent in June to 7.4 percent joblessness fell by 8.9 points among percent in July. Labor Market Test (LMT) which non-availability of qualified and PHP 100,000, or imprisonment in September. 25-34 year olds from 29.2 percent in On the other hand, underemploy- is used to determine the non- willing Filipino nationals.” of not less than six months nor - Moreover, the 7.4 percent June to 20.3 percent in September. ment (refers to those who desire to availability of a qualified, able and Moreover, the DOLE Secre- more than six years, or both such who were retrenched in September For 45 year olds, it fell by have additional hours of work in their willing person in the Philippines tary is authorized to grant exemp- fine and imprisonment, at the consisted of 4.8 percent of those whose 4.8 points from 14.4 percent to 9.7 present job, or to have an additional to do the services for which the tions from the Labor Market Test discretion of the court. The foreign contracts were not renewed, 1.8 per- percent. job, or to have a new job with longer national shall be subject to depor- cent who were laid off, and 0.7 percent “It hardly changed among 35-44 working hours) rate rose to 7.51 mil- foreign national is being hired. to foreign nationals. whose employers closed operations. year olds, moving from 15.2 percent to lion in October from 7.09 million in It is comparable to an Economic The amendment to Article tation after service of his sentence, • were first-time job seekers at 3.1 14.6 percent. This is the lowest adult July – 56 percent of these underem- Needs Test implemented by other 41 (Prohibition Against Transfer the amendment provides. percent (est. 1.4 million adults) – a 1.7 joblessness for this age group since 13 ployed workers worked for 40 hours a countries. of Employment) of P.D. 442, as Moreover, the amendment point drop from 4.7 percent in June to percent in June 2014,” the SWS report week and most were from the services Nograles said the proposed amended, provides that after the provides that the DOLE Secretary 3.1 percent in September. noted. and agriculture sectors. amendment of the Labor Code issuance of an employment per- is authorized to impose a fine of “SWS’ adult joblessness data Adult joblessness among the 18- provision is meant to facilitate mit, the foreign national shall not PHP 50,000 for every year or a refer to the population of adults in the 24 age groups rose by 3.6 points from “Underemployed persons who uniformity by properly stating transfer to another job or change fraction thereof to both the foreign labor force. Those who have a job at 51.1 percent in June to 54.8 percent in work for less than 40 hours in a week the term used by the country in his employer without prior ap- national found working without present, plus those without a job at September. are called visibly underemployed per- present and looking for a job, are part BusinessWorld, noted that SWS’s sons. They accounted for 53.7 percent its commitments entered into via proval of the DOLE Secretary. valid employment permit and to of the labor force,” the SWS report regular adult joblessness survey could of the total underemployed in October bilateral, regional and multilateral Furthermore, any non-res- the employer. said. not be compared to the unemployment 2016. By comparison, the underem- Meanwhile, SWS reported that survey conducted by the government ployed persons who worked for 40 the September 2016 Survey also found due to differences in criteria such as hours or more in a week made up 45.1 the adult labor force participation rate age and job situation prepared for percent. By sector, 43.5 percent of the at 72.0 percent or an estimated 44.7 respondents. underemployed worked in the services million Filipino adults – 2.1 points In addition, the report also noted sector, while 39.1 percent were in the below from the 74.1 percent (or an esti- that the Duterte administration aims agriculture sector. Those in the indus- mated 46.0 million adults) labor force to reduce poverty by 1.25-1.5 percent try sector accounted for 17.3 percent,” participation rate in June 2016. points yearly to end with 13-17 percent the PSA reported. Optimism about increase in job incidence by 2022 from 21.6 percent availability in 2017 is at 44 percent in 2015. A4 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 ph news Just in time for Christmas: Emergency repatriation fund sought Tax- and duty-free Balikbayan Boxes for qualified OFWs for distressed OFWs by 2018 By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent MANILA -- Starting De- his/her Philippine passport with “We value the importance of cember 25, parcels or balikbayan personal information, picture and each balikbayan box. They symbol- The Senate adapted Mi- This is on top of the PHP 1.3 trillion, or more than a tenth boxes with cost not exceeding signature, or photocopy of his/ ize the hardship of our overseas nority Leader Ralph Recto’s 31 million to be set aside by of the Gross Domestic Product. Php150,000 sent by OFWs will be her foreign passport with personal Filipino workers, and the love of proposal for the creation of a the Overseas Workers Welfare Recto said Congress needs tax- and duty-free. information, picture and signature Filipinos abroad for their families PHP 100 million “emergency Administration for the same to find other sources for OFW Last December 10, the Bureau plus proof of copy of dual citizen- here in the country,” Faeldon said. of Customs and the Department ship; and, Furthermore, Faeldon earlier repatriation fund” in the na- purpose. repatriation since OWWA of Finance (DOF) signed Customs • Invoice, receipt or equiva- reminded all port officials and tional budget to be used by the Over at the Department of spends only 69 centavos, or less Administrative Order (CAO) 05- lent document covering the goods personnel to expedite release and Labor Secretary to bring home Foreign Affairs, its proposed than one percent, for repatria- 2016 which serves as the “Imple- in the balikbayan box, if any. handling of the boxes and follow distressed OFWs next year. Assistance to Nationals (ATN) tion out of every PHP 100 that menting Rules and Regulations 2. A QFWA shall ac- BOC’s “no opening of balikbayan Recto, however, challenged Fund for 2017 is PHP 400 mil- the agency collects from OFWs. (IRR) on Section 800 (g) of the complish, sign and submit the boxes” policy unless there is “de- administration lawmakers to lion, the same as this year’s. Citing a Commission on Customs and Modernization and Information Sheet, which will be rogatory information” that war- raise the amount as there are Augmenting the DFA’s Audit report, Recto noted that Tariff Act (CMTA).” issued by BOC and will serve as rants the opening of the boxes. many more “out-of-luck and ATN is the Legal Assistance OWWA “issued a measly 119 According to BOC, CAO the packing list. “BOC is also appealing to the out-of-cash” Filipino workers Fund, which will have a pro- plane tickets for repatriated 05-2016 covers the sending of 3. The international forward- public not to misuse the privilege abroad waiting to be reunited posed funding of PHP 100 mil- OFWs last year.” balikbayan boxes by Qualified er/consolidator shall submit these granted by law,” the statement with their families in the Philip- lion, the same for 2016. This, despite OWWA Filipinos While Abroad (QFWA) Information Sheets and support- read. pines. “’That PHP 500 million, spending almost PHP 1.8 billion to their families and relatives ing documents in a secured elec- In an post by Rappler, it (and shall be exempted from the tronic format to local (Philippine) was recalled that in November, The PHP 3.35 trillion 2017 that’s the remittance of our in 2015, of which PHP 17 mil- payment of duties and taxes) up to forwarder/deconsolidator. Senator Juan Edgardo “Sonny” national budget is still being countrymen from Hong Kong lion was for the purchase of the three times (in a calendar year) as 4. The local forwarder/de- Angara, chairman of the Senate hammered out by a House- within four days and five hours. 119 airline tickets. long as the parcels will not exceed consolidator shall transmit to the ways and means committee called Senate conference panel that PHP 500 million is also what This low figure should not Php150,000. Bureau the Information Sheet for the immediate implementa- will reconcile the two chambers’ OFWs in Italy remit to their come as a surprise, Recto said, “Balikbayan boxes brought in and supporting documents in a tion of higher tax exemption differing provisions. homeland in just 12 days,” “because the number of return- through means other than consoli- secured electronic format before ceiling for balikbayan boxes and The PHP 100 million fund, Recto said. ing workers given ‘domestic dated shipments shall be covered the arrival of the balikbayan boxes the fast-tracking of the Customs he stressed, should just be “a “Half a billion pesos is our transportation assistance’ by by a different CAO,” the Bureau of to the Philippines and within the Administrative Order (CAO) or the component of a bigger help katas ng Saudi in less than 34 OWWA was a mere 856 last Customs statement read. period prescribed: Implementing Rules and Regula- fund for OFWs,” which “must hours,” the Senator pointed out. year, halos wala pang tatlo kada The BOC reiterated that the For consolidated shipments by tions (IRR) of the CMTA. reach at least PHP 1.5 billion,” The 2017 OFW aid fund araw.” CAO released are applicable for sea: “I am sure that Filipino “qualified Filipinos abroad” and • For shipments that will take workers abroad are now starting or 300 percent bigger than what is “mere four hours’ worth” of Departing OFWs are their balikbayan boxes (containing 3-day shipping time: 24 hours to buy goods that they will send Malacañang has proposed for all OFW remittances, Recto required to pay a membership personal effects and household prior to arrival during the Christmas season. 2017. said, using as basis the $28.48 contribution of $25 or its local goods) that will be duty- and • For shipments that will take Once this law is implemented, it For 2017, the Duterte billion overseas Filipinos sent currency equivalent on a per tax-free. Moreover, BOC also 7-day shipping time: 48 hours is certain that many OFWs will be administration asked Congress home last year. “It has grown by contract basis but shall not noted that under the Customs prior to arrival happy because it will cost them to allocate PHP 50 million, to 12.3 percent since 2013, but the exceed two years. The same and Modernization and Tariff Act • For shipments coming from less to send balikbayan boxes as it be lodged under the Office of OFW help fund has remained amount shall be paid upon (CMTA), Qualified Filipinos While America, Europe, Middle East, and will not be taxed,” Angara said in the Secretary of the Department flat.” renewal of membership in suc- Abroad (QFWA) is classified as the other parts of the world that does a press statement released by the of Labor and Employment, for In local currency, last year’s ceeding years. following: not fall under the above shipping Senate last November 12. OFW repatriation. OFW remittances reached PHP • holders of valid passports is- time: 10 days prior to arrival. The CMTA was signed last sued by the Department of Foreign For consolidated shipments car- May 31 by then President Benigno SELF-CONFESSED HIT- With his testimony, Matobato Affairs (DFA) and certified by ried by aircraft: Aquino III a month before he he said. MAN said he hoped justice would be Department of Labor and Employ- • For those coming from Asia ended his term. The CMTA revised “Lascanas was strict about given to the victims of the DDS. ment (DOLE) or Philippine Over- – 1 hour prior to arrival the tax ceiling of balikbayan ... FROM PAGE A1 chopping the bodies. You couldn’t just shoot or stangle the victim,” he Malacañang dismissed the seas Employment Administration • For those coming from boxes from Php10,000 ($200) to said inTagalog. complaint, and considered it as (POEA) for overseas employment other countries – 6 hours prior to Php150,000 ($3,060) and the new the complaints before the Ombuds- Matobato claimed there were nothing but harassment aimed at purposes regardless of profession; arrival CAO stated that these values pro- man. times when Duterte was personally distracting the Chief Executive from • non-resident Filipinos who 5. A QFWA shall also certify vided for the balikbayan boxes are In his affidavit, Matobato said the DDS executed more than 1,000 involved in the killings. “Some- performing his duty. have established permanent resi- that only personal effects and now tax- and duty-exempted. suspected criminals and other times, he would go to Laud Quarry Communications Assistant dency abroad but retained their household goods, which shall not In addition, BOC noted that individuals from the time it was to watch the victim get killed and Secretary Ana Marie Banaag em- Filipino citizenship; and, be in commercial quantities, are the CAO will take effect 15 days established in 1988 until the time chopped up,” he added. phasized the Ombudsman already • resident Filipino citizens sent through balikbayan boxes. after its first publication in a he left the group in 2013. He said the chopped-up bod- terminated an earlier investigation who temporarily stay abroad (may ‘Expedite release and han- newspaper of general circulation Matobato said Duterte ies were either buried or thrown on the DDS case which linked them include holders of student visa, dling of balikbayan boxes’ and shall be effective on Christmas founded DDS when he was Davao into the sea. He said the Laud Fir- to Duterte. investors’ visa, tourist visa, and In a statement released by Day, December 25. City mayor. The group, which was ing Range in Barangay Ma-a, Davao “The Ombudsman cannot similar visas which allow them to BOC, Commissioner Nicanor Fael- “Therefore, only QFWAs who composed of some local policemen city, was a regular dumping ground discipline or remove impeachable establish temporary stay abroad). don requests all international and send their boxes after this CAO and civilians, was initially named for DDS victims. officials, which include the Presi- In a guideline released by local forwarders, foreign consoli- is in effect and who have duly ac- “Lambada Boys.” He noted that He said the operations were dent and he enjoys immunity while BOC, a Qualified Filipinos While dators and local consolidators to complished the Information Sheet Duterte, as mayor, was the highest not limited to Davao City, with the in office,” said Banaag. Abroad (QFWA) should furnish strictly follow the abovementioned and complied with the require- official in the DDS, and “cleared” group traveling as far as Gen- “However, we acknowledge the following requirements to avail guidelines to enable Customs to ments stated in the CAO can avail almost all operations. eral Santos City, Butuan, Tagum, the constitutional mandate of the of the tax and duty-free privilege: “expedite clearance procedures, of this privilege,” the BOC state- “He was the one who ordered Panabo, Davao del Sur, Digos, Office of the Ombudsman to act on 1. A QFWA shall submit the and for them to ensure that all ment added. people killed,” stressed Matobato in Maitum and Sarangani to kill. A and investigate complaints against following supporting documents: balikbayan boxes are delivered to his complaints. member was also assigned to do government officials,” Banaag said. • Photocopy of a page of their receiver with utmost care.” Matobato also named SPO4 jobs in Manila sometime in 2002 or “The filing by Mr. Edgar Mato- Arthur Lascanas as “second-in- 2003, he added. bato of criminal and administrative charges against me and several oth- SENATORS DIVIDED Pangilinan, Alan Peter Cayetano, exchange for protection in his drug command” to Duterte within the He said the DDS killed an ers, including my father, President ... FROM PAGE A1 Senate Majority Leader Vicente operation. DDS and SPO4 Sanson Buenaven- average of three members daily, not Rodrigo Duterte, is a proof that the “Tito” Sotto III, ex-officio member De Lima said Duterte has once tura, also known as the “little including those who were shot on Philippines is a democracy,” Paolo The President was referring to and Senate President Pro Tempore again demolished the virtue of ac- mayor.” the streets. said. the CIDG team who, according to Franklin Drilon. countability by coddling erring law Matobato said Lascanas gave In his affidavit, Matobato also “A closer look at what was filed the National Bureau of Investiga- Three of the signatories have enforcers. the order on who Duterte wanted detailed the killings of members of at the Ombudsman will easily allow tion (NBI), summarily executed affixed their signatures either with Lacson, who had openly cited killed while Buenaventura was re- former Speaker Prospero Nograles’ us to see the only thing consistent Espinosa. reservations or have expressed in- during his own Senate panel’s hear- sponsible for paying off the people security detail, a dance instructor in the Matobato tales—lies,” Paolo Espinosa is the father of Ker- tentions to interpellate and propose ings on the Espinosa killing, the involved in the killings. who was reportedly the boyfriend said. “What he filed at the Ombuds- win Espinosa, allegedly the number amendments to the report prepared abundant details indicating “pre- “From what I know, nobody of Duterte’s sister Jocelyn, and man was just a piece of garbage.” one drug lord in the Eastern Visayas by the justice and human rights meditation,” said he would not go could kill anyone without getting an billionaire businessman Richard The Vice-mayor said that the region. He cleared his father of committee. so far as call Duterte “mastermind.” order or clearance from the mayor,” King, whose death was supposedly allegations thrown against him by any involvement in his illegal drug Pangilinan said he dissented He also warned Trillanes about the complainant said. ordered by Paolo Duterte. Matobato were all the “product of trade. in part and he concurred in part. He such hasty judgment. “Solid evi- He also claimed that he was Matabato said he was com- the imagination of a madman.” “Now we all know that the will file a separate opinion. He said dence must be ready to prove such a Lascanas’ right hand man. In 2013, pensated for his work in the DDS Meanwhile, Ombudsman Con- order and command to murder more hearings are necessary for a suspicion,”Lacson said. he said the police officer even gave even while he was employed as chita Carpio-Morales said she will Espinosa in cold blood came from definitive finding to be established. But Trillanes has maintained him a watch with the receipt bear- a contractual worker of the Civil inhibit from the investigation on none other than the President Drilon signed “with reserva- the liability of the President, claim- ing the name of Duterte’s supposed Security Unit with a monthly salary the complaint. “I’m taking no part himself,” said De Lima. She said the tions” and expressed intention ing that a case of conspiracy to com- second-in-command. of PHP 6,000. in all cases against Duterte,” said draft report of the Senate Commit- to interpellate when the report is mit murder can be lodged against From an initial seven mem- At present, Matobato said, Morales who is the aunt-in-law of tee on Justice and Human rights reported out to the plenary. him before the courts when he’s no bers, Matobato said DDS grew over all of the policemen who were part Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte, the chaired by Sen. Richard Gordon Cayetano also signed with longer president. the years to include rebel returnees of the DDS are already rich. He President’s daughter. said it all. reservations as he also expressed Both De Lima and Trillanes from the New People’s Army. He claimed that aside from killing “I take no part in cases against “Together with Edgar Ma- intention to propose amendments share the view that an alleged con- said the new members were in people, the hitmen also earned him and his family,” Morales reiter- tobato’s testimony on the Davao to the report. spiracy to silence Espinosa could charge of “small-time” jobs such from smuggling, which is reportedly ated, citing as example her inhibi- Death Squad (DDS), Duterte’s Other members of the joint not have been confined to the level as killing barangay toughies, gang controlled by Duterte. tion from a previous investigation admission seals his fate, first in panel who did not sign the report of Marcos. members and so-called “rugby Matobato said he was tortured on the so-called Davao Death Squad Davao City, now throughout the were Senators Leila de Lima, Grace “It’s a betrayal of public trust boys.” on Lascanas’ orders when he tried (DDS) by the Office of the Ombuds- entire Philippines, with the number Poe, Joseph Victor Ejercito, Antonio because it’s his (Duterte) duty to He said the victims were usu- to leave DDS in 2013. He said he man for Luzon. of his victims now beyond the five Trillanes IV, and Senate Minority enforce the law. And part of his duty ally strangled inside a car. The bod- managed to get out alive after his thousand mark, and still rising,” Leader Ralph Recto. to enforce the law is making sure ies then had to be chopped up, in wife made a scene when DDS mem- pointed out De Lima. The NBI released its report that those who are responsible for accordance with Lascanas’ orders, bers went to his house. “The changes in Sen. Richard on the killing by Marcos’ team of committing crimes are being made reviving expired franchises, modifying board found at the pantry numerous Gordon’s extra-judicial killings the Albuera town Mayor, declar- accountable. And part of his duty DUTERTE FIRES 92 routes, placing franchises under other case folders and two laptops that sup- Report which I was not allowed to ing it a “rub out.” The NBI dashed to enforce the law is to respect the ... FROM PAGE A1 transport classification or extending posedly showed the two databases being read and sign before it was released the police claim that Espinosa and Constitution, including the separa- them. All these supposedly violate the utilized for questionable transactions. are now in order,” said De Lima. cellmate Raul Yap drew guns on tion of powers. It’s the court that Only ERC chairman Jose Salazar has 2003 moratorium on the issuance of The deals mostly pertain to the is- “I think this also puts to a them as they served search warrants must determine guilt; he cannot stepped down so far by going on an ap- new transport franchises. suance of new franchises by the regional close the Senate investigation on on their cell. pre-empt the court,” said De Lima. parent face-saving leave. It was suggested that such illegal office since the 2003 moratorium. who ordered the killing of Mayor The NBI cited as dubious Mar- She said a possible conspir- In a related development, Bureau activities within the LTFRB may have Board member Aileen Lizada said the contributed immensely to the hellish franchises issued by the NCR office “had Espinosa,” said De Lima. cos team’s reason for serving the acy to silence the slain Mayor was of Immigration (BI) Deputy Commis- sioners Al Argosino and Mike Robles traffic in Metro Manila and other major a sense of legitimacy at first glance but search warrant: that Espinosa and made even more probable by the De Lima’s assertions were were sent on forced leave after they cities. the case details would bare irregulari- contrary to the findings of Gordon’s Yap had guns and drugs in jail. testimony at the Lacson hearing by were implicated in the alleged PHP 50 LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra ties upon further investigation.” committee and the committee Trillanes, another critic of the widow of Chief Insp. Jesus Son, million extortion on on-line gaming said they are probing former NCR “This is why the number of PUVs on public order and illegal drugs Duterte said the President’s lat- who was ambushed in September. operator Jack Lam for the release Director Rodolfo Jaucian for “glar- is increasing and adding to the traffic chaired by Sen. Panfilo Lacson, est defense of the PNP-Criminal His widow told senators of Chinese workers caught in illegal ing irregularities” found in various congestion here. It is because NCR which virtually cleared Duterte Investigation and Detection Group Marcos may have the motive to casino operations in Clark Freeport, transactions during an inspection. Also has mastered the art of corruption in of any involvement in the alleged (CIDG) Region 8 headed by Supt. kill her husband for refusing his Pampanga. included in the probe are resigned hear- extending and reviving franchises,” extrajudicial killings and summary Marvin Marcos could indicate Du- supposed order to find a hitman to Speaking at the awarding ceremo- ing officer Melchor Fronda, transporta- Lizada said. tion development officer Jean Gunda Duterte stressed he would not executions in the government’s all- terte was the mastermind. kill Espinosa in exchange for PHP ny for The Outstanding Young Men and Women (TOYM) 2016in Malacanang on and administrative officer Mary Jane condone any form of corruption under “Duterte’s statement indicated 500,000. De Lima said such a big out campaign against war. Monday, President Duterte explained Manajero. his watch. “Ninety-two of them were The report said, “There was no he’s the brains because it’s con- fee offered for supposed assail- why he is unrelenting on stamping out Jaucian has since been relieved fired. I gave them the option of facing proof that there is state-sponsored nected: he was the one who called ants could not have come just from crime like illegal drugs. “Our nation of his post and transferred to the CESO charges or more. I said ‘you resign for policy to commit killings to eradi- to reinstate Marcos to his post at Marcos. is in a crucial period of introducing (career executive service officers) pool you have become the pariah of this cate illegal drugs in the country.” CIDG-8, and now he’s saying he “How can there be account- concrete and meaningful change. I on floating status, while Gunda and government and do not expect me to It however took note of “the many won’t let these guys go to prison. ability for these extra-judicial need your support now more than ever Manajero were transferred to regional be courteous, not even a see you when thousands of killings with impunity That statement is good, it can be killings if the President himself so that we can collectively overcome offices in Mindanao. I see you.’” taking place every year in the last used against Duterte,” Trillanes keeps on shielding these law enforc- the ills of illegal drugs, criminality and They could face charges for The President called corruption violation of the anti-graft and corrupt a “virulent thing” and vowed to step two decades at least.” It also ruled said. ers? Without even waiting for the corruption that has plagued our nation for so long.” practices act, ethical standards of up measures to curb it. He urged the Duterte had earlier called PNP verdict, he quickly pardons. In this DDS actually did not exist as it was The officials and employees of government officials, aside from estafa public to help the government address just a “media creation.” Chief Director Gen. Ronald “Bato” case, the NBI has just filed a com- Land Transportation and Regulatory and falsification of public documents, the problem of corruption by reporting The report was signed by 11 dela Rosa and ordered him to rein- plaint, and already he is pardoning Board (LTFRB) and Land Transporta- Delgra said. irregularities. senators. Aside from Gordon and state Marcos to his post. them. And that’s not even his duty tion Office (LTO) were removed from Delgra said anomalous transac- “You do not (need to) really tell Lacson, the other signatories were: Dela Rosa booted out Marcos because the duty belongs to the their posts, Duterte said, for various tions at the LTFRB-NCR office were me your name. Just let me know,” he Senators Gringo Honasan, Loren from the CIDG after Kerwin judiciary, to the courts. So that’s criminal activities. dug up after one complainant reported added, referring to the 8888 anony- Legarda, Juan Miguel Zubiri, Nancy revealed the police officer was bordering on impeachability.” These included selling twice paying PHP 250,000 to a fixer. When mous tip line. Binay, Manny Pacquiao, Francis receiving drug money from him in or transferring transport franchises, verified in an official visit, the LTRFB Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star A5 sports New York Jets beat San Francisco 49ers 23-17 after overtime Parks sparks news Alab Pilipinas guard Ray Parks Text and photos by R. Mascardo Jr. ordered 40 tickets to give away to family and friends for what he SANTA CLARA -- Bilal Powell in- considered as his homecoming spired the Jets on their fourth win after he game Sunday night. ran into the end zone from 19 yards out in He has traveled all over the overtime. United States during his stint in Nick Folk kept the game going by the NBA D-League, showcased his kicking a 50-yard field goal to tie the score skills at Smart Araneta Coliseum while seeing action for National U at 17 deep into the fourth quarter. in the UAAP and wore the country’s Carlos Hyde’s 193 rushing yards colors at Mall of Asia Arena in the looked like they would guarantee a second Fiba Olympic Qualifying Tourna- win for the 49ers. Hyde caught a touch- ment. down pass from quarterback Colin Kaep- But Parks always prides ernick, while fellow running back Shaun himself as the kid who grew up playing ball in the concrete courts Draughn ran for score.Their double act in Parañaque. helped the Niners build a 17-3 lead at the Bobby Ray Parks “I came from beginnings of a half. (photo: www.mavsmoneyball.com) kid playing in the local leagues here Phil Dawson kicked a second field goal known by everybody as just Parks’ in the third quarter before Folk’s second kid,” said the son of the late PBA import Bobby Parks Sr. Before a capacity crowd at Olivarez Gymnasium, Parks treated his hometown to a memorable perfor- three-pointer against a woeful Jets de- mance that also set a new record in the Asean Basketball League. fense. Parks’ 41 points in Alab Pilipinas’ 93-87 victory over the Kaohsiung Truth wasn’t just the highest scor- New York attempted to generate first ing output in the young ABL season, it also established a new mark for a local player, eclipsing the 35 of down and big plays with Bryce Petty strug- Thai Kammut Samerjai of the Mono Vampires last season. The output was still four short of the ABL scoring gling under center. record held by Justin Howard of the Singapore Slingers. Powell took longer to get going than “It feels great,” said Parks who missed just four of his 20 attempts aside from grabbing 14 rebounds. “Just to represent the country with Alab is a blessing, a huge honor. It’s definitely one of those games I’ll Hyde but still kept the chains moving in remember, for sure.” both the running and passing games. Ul- The outcome was hardly in doubt as soon as Parks took over against the same team he torched for 30 timately, he tallied 170 yards as a runner points in a 91-82 win last week in Bulacan. The two-time UAAP MVP had 11 points in the first period where and receiver, as well as the game-winning score. Alab raced to a 21-6 advantage to seize command. The Jets should have this many big plays on the ground against the NFL’s worst run de- “When you think about it, before the first game, I haven’t played over 15 minutes in a year and a half [in fense. But Powell still deserve credit for propping up an offense perennially undermined by a the US],” said Parks. “I was still finding my rhythm.” “It’s just getting better and better,” he added. “I’m more in control now.” nightmare quarterback situation. He got his reward on the 19-yard to win it. Alab’s Korean import Lee Seung-jun tallied 24 points as the Filipinos improved to 2-1 for third spot NEXT: San Francisco 49ers take on Falcons in Atlanta on December 18 behind Hong Kong Eastern Long Lions (4-0) and Singapore Slingers (3-1). The feat hardly surprised Alab coach Mac Cuan. “Bobby Ray is Bobby Ray,” said Cuan. “That’s already a given.” Kaohsiung paraded new heritage imports in former Far Eastern U standouts Achie Iñigo and Raymar Jose, after fielding only one reinforcement in Mikee Reyes last week. But the duo could do little to stop the Truth from falling to a fourth straight defeat. Jose finished with 12 points and seven boards, including five offensive rebounds, before fouling out midway in the fourth period. Iñigo had four points on 2-of-8 shooting aside from issuing eight assists. But the ex-Tamaraws did well enough to impress the Truth’s management team, which signed them for the remainder of the season. Jose, a member of the UAAP Mythical Team this year, thinks he has a lot to work on to help the Truth arrest their skid. “I know they’re looking for a hustle player both on offense and defense so I need to work on that,” said Jose. “But all the hard work I showed during college, that’s also what I’m going to give them.” Parks, though, wasn’t the only hit in the match as Alab drew a large crowd for the third straight game. Alab, which also filled Alonte Sports Arena in Biñan City and Baliwag Star Arena in Bulacan, will play its next home games in Davao and Sta. Rosa, Laguna. (Cedelf P. Tupas / inquirer.net) FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955 WANTED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: WANTED FilAm Star, one of the fastest growing Filipino-American newspaper companies is Accounting Staff expanding and has immediate openings. Please send resume to: Please send resume to: [email protected] [email protected] or call (650) 278-0692/ or Fax 1-800-446-6191 (415) 593-5955 WANTED Caregiver & Administrator Experienced caregiver, CAN, LVN, RN, and DRIVERS / AGENTS Administrator. For San Rafael. CA ARF Facility. WAREHOUSEMAN Flexible Hours, Competitive compensation. FIELD SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE Live in position available. Fluent in Tagalog Self - motivated Applicant may qualify for 15% to 20% pay raise immediately. 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PERRY DIAZ over Bongbong, which led Bongbong to file for ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO recount. When the Christmas season would be- When Maria Leonor But Bongbong wants the recount the precincts Simbang Gabi gin, it was customary to hold novenas in the “Leni” Robredo entered in which he got zero votes. However, he doesn’t (Night Mass) signals evenings, but the priests saw that the people politics 2013, little did want the recount of Leni’s zero-vote precincts, the cleansing process would attend despite the day’s fatigue. As a she know that within four which she claims was four to five times as many as for Christians as they years she’d be propelled to his. compromise, the clergy began to say Masses in prepare themselves the second highest posi- Marcos burial the early morning while it was still dark before tion in the country – the Newly elected President Rodrigo Duterte who towards celebrating people went out to work the land. vice presidency. Some won in a landslide due mainly to his populist ap- Christmas Eve. The During the Spanish Era and early Ameri- people call it “fast track” peal to the common people and a promise to end nine-day series of can Period, the parishioners would mostly ascension; some call it illegal drugs, criminality, and corruption in three masses give parishio- have nothing to offer during Mass except sacks luck; and a few call it destiny. But as the coun- to six months, appointed Leni as Chairperson of ners the time to know of rice, fruits and vegetables and fresh eggs. try’s vice-president since June 30, 2016 – just a the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating themselves, reflect on what they have done to These were graciously accepted by the priests, little over five months in office – many people now Council (HUDCC). However, the appointment did their families and others, and what they will be who besides keeping a portion for themselves, believe that Leni is destined to assume what the not dwell too well with Bongbong whom Duterte is doing as a true believer and follower of Jesus would share the produce with the congregation country needs: a servant-leader whose compassion openly supporting in his electoral protest against Christ. after the service. It’s the spirit of giving that for the poor transcends policy. Leni. The case is now pending before the Presi- Christmas is a tradition worldwide! It is Before entering public life four years ago, Leni dential Electoral Tribunal (PET), which consists of matters, not the expensive items people are the time for people to rejoice, have fun, bond led a simple and down-to-earth lifestyle. She grad- members of the Supreme Court. Interestingly, the giving to friends and loved ones. uated from the University of the Philippines with a Supreme Court, by a 9-4 vote, recently ruled to al- together, reunite, and enjoy each other’s com- Today, local delicacies are readily available degree in Economics in 1986. That was the year the low the burial of Bongbong’s father and namesake, pany. Of course, this is the time for us to renew in the church’s premises for the parishioners. People Power Revolution erupted. Inspired by the the late dictator Ferdinand E. Marcos to be buried our relationship with Jesus Christ our Lord We have the traditional puto bumbong, bibing- revolution, Leni deferred her law studies and went in the Libingan Ng Mga Bayani (Heroes’ Cemetery). with activities like Simbang Gabi, Christmas ka, suman and other rice pastries which were to work as a researcher for the Bicol River Basin Does their vote indicate that PET would likely de- Eve, and New Year’s Eve. cooked on the spot. Latik and yema are sweets Development Program, a government agency that clare Bongbong the winner of the vice-presidential While others say it is the most expensive sold to children, while biscuits like uraro (ar- was responsible for planning the development in election; thus, replacing Leni as Vice President? time of the year with all the gifts under the rowroot), barquillos, lengua de gato, and otap the three provinces of the Bicol region. It was here Déjà vu tree not only for our family members but for (ladyfingers) are also available. Kape barako, a where she met her future husband, Jesse Robredo, With the political currents shifting erratically, relatives, godchildren (inaanak) and friends very strong coffee grown in the province of Ba- who was then the agency’s Program Director. They speculation is rife that there is an insidious plot (BFFs), there are ways to celebrate it the frugal got married the following year. for Bongbong to replace Leni. The obvious one tangas, hot tsokolate, or salabat (an infusion or way… and still retaining the Christmas spirit. A few years later, Leni obtained her Master’s is for Bongbong to win the recount, which many ginger) are the main drinks, while soups such Degree in Business Administration at San Beda believe would be done by hook or by crook. As to Instead of buying expensive gifts, for example, as arroz caldo (rice and chicken porridge) and College. After getting her MBA, she went to law how they’d do it hookedly or crookedly, depends buy things that are cheap and useful the whole papait (goat bile stew from the Ilocos region) school at the University of Nueva Caceres where on many factors, including an attempt of Duterte year round. After all, it is the giving that mat- are also found. she earned her law degree in 1992. She passed the to amend the Constitution to convert the govern- ters… and receiving is just a gesture of thank- Wikipedia further say, “The rice-based bar exam in 1996 and went to work in the Public ment system to a federal system. Or, perhaps, into a fulness. foods were traditionally served to fill the Attorney’s Office, where she took up the defense for parliamentary system where Duterte would remain The joy of giving should be the prevail- stomachs of the farmers, since rice is a cheap cases pursued by her husband, who was then the President as the head of state and Bongbong who ing spirit this time of the year. And, instead of and primary staple. The pastries were full of Mayor of Naga City. would be Prime Minister as head of government? lavish parties or get-togethers, do potlucks and carbohydrates needed by colonial Filipinos for Fate and destiny This reminds me when the elder Marcos serve inexpensive low-carb food. the back-breaking work they were subjected to changed the Constitution to a parliamentary With 26 years of experience in serving the Simbang Gabi, which is one of the spe- people – mostly poor – in the Bicol region, Leni system with him as President and Cesar Virata as in the rice paddies and sugar mills”. sharply honed her “people skill,” which prepared Prime Minister. With a large majority of congress- cial features of Christmas, is starting this Simbang Gabi today, Filipinos still cele- her for a life of public service. However, she didn’t men – many of them were LP turncoats – serving Wednesday, December 15, 2016 at the Holy brate this Mass with great solemnity where the realize that fate – and destiny – would catapult her as rubber stamp for a Duterte-Marcos alliance, Cross Church in Jackson St., San Jose and in priest wears white and Gloria is sung. Simbang in a trajectory that would lead her to the vice presi- there wouldn’t be a need for Bongbong to run for all Roman Catholic and Aglipayan churches all Gabi is also celebrated in malls because of the dency… a heartbeat away from the presidency. President in a national ticket. All Duterte has to do over the world. This is the traditional “Night strong devotion of the Filipinos but recently, With the untimely and sudden death of her is to convince the turncoats to make Bongbong the Mass” known as Simbang Gabi. Simbang Gabi Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle discouraged husband Jesse from a plane crash in 2012, who was Prime Minister. And with the LP reduced to about is a devotional nine-day series of masses in celebrating mass at malls except if malls have then the Secretary of the Department of the Interior 30 congressmen and a handful of senators, they anticipation of Christmas and to honor the their own chapel. could hardly function as an opposition party. There and Local Government (DILG) under the adminis- Blessed Virgin Mary. The masses are held daily The simbang gabi in the Holy Cross tration of then President Benigno Aquino III, Leni won’t be any opposition party! Does that remind from December 15 – 23 or December 16–24, Church will be the first after FilAm assistant was encouraged by Liberal Party stalwarts includ- you of the dark era of the Marcos dictatorship? Yes, and occur at different times depending upon ing President Aquino to run for a congressional seat it’s déjà vu all over again. priest Fr. Abner Ablis was assigned to the to represent Camarines Sur’s third district. The battle begins the church celebrating it. On the last day of Hispanic-dominated church, according to Her first foray into politics was one of the Last December 4, Leni resigned from the the Simbang Gabi, which is Christmas Eve, the FilAm Community President Ruben Rigocera. most – if not the most – watched contests dur- Duterte Cabinet after she received a text message service is instead called Misa de Gallo (Spanish The simbang gabi masses will be officiated by ing the 2013 mid-term elections. Pitted against from Cabinet Secretary Jun Evasco to “desist” from for “Rooster’s Mass). Fr. Abner principally for FilAms to reconnect Nelly Favis-Villafuerte, a member of the powerful attending Cabinet meetings. In her letter, Leni The Simbang Gabi originated, according among themselves and other parishioners. This Villafuerte dynasty, conventional wisdom dictated said: “I had been warned of a plot to steal the Vice to Wikipedia, “in the early days of Spanish rule will give us a sense of belonging and a pride to that Leni didn’t stand a chance of beating Favis- Presidency. I have chosen to ignore this and focus over the Philippines as a practical compromise boost our rich culture at this time of the year. Villafuerte. The odds were just too great. But she on the job at hand. But the events of recent days for farmers, who began work before sunrise Let us accept the fact that we, if not all, won! She occupied her district’s congressional seat indicate that this plot is now being set into motion. to avoid the noonday heat out in the fields. It are workaholic! No doubt about that! We need in Metro Manila and commuted by bus to and from “From the very beginning, the President and began in 1969. Priests began to say Mass in the Naga City once a week. She could have availed of I had major differences in principles and values. to work to provide for the family. We need to early mornings instead of the evening nove- a government-paid chauffeur-driven sedan but she Since I assumed office, I have been consistent in work to pay for our bills. We need to work to didn’t. my opposition to issues such as the burial of former nas more common in the rest of the Hispanic sustain our daily needs. And most of all, we Underdog wins President Ferdinand Marcos in the Libingan ng world. This cherished Christmas custom even- need to work to survive in this competitive In 2015, Aquino prodded her to run for vice- mga Bayani, extra-judicial killings, reinstating tually became a distinct feature of Philippine world! president when the LP couldn’t find a strong candi- death penalty, lowering the age of criminal liability, culture”. What we forget, however, is we also need date to field against several seasoned and nation- and sexual attacks against women.” At that time, the Philippines is an agricul- to work for the salvation of our soul and seek ally recognized senators. With no track record of In a press conference following her resigna- tural country known for its rice, coconut and the guidance of the Lord! Most of us forget winning in nationwide elections, Leni didn’t stand a tion, Leni declared her readiness to lead the politi- sugarcane plantations. Religious historians say, that people get their strength in God. That we chance of beating them. cal opposition to a Duterte-Marcos conspiracy to “Many tenant farmers (also known as sacadas, should not forget to provide food for our body When Leni began her vice-presidential elec- steal the vice-presidency. “This is not a time for campesinos, and casamac) toiled all day with and soul! We need healing! We need to pray! tion campaign, she was the underdog with only 1% fear. This is a time for conviction and courage.” one break during noon when the heat would be approval rating in the surveys versus the 44% of She concluded, saying: “We have fought this battle We need the mercy of God! And… attending at its peak. Losing an hour due to the unbear- Chiz Escudero, who wan then the front-runner. By before and won. We will never let anyone revise our Simbang Gabi is definitely one episode of our April 2016, just two weeks before the elections, Leni history and twist it to turn evil into good. What is at able temperatures, farmers worked hard and life, although how busy we are, that will feed climbed to the top of the leader board at 26% and stake here is our collective future.” budgeted their time out of fear of the local en- our soul and live a contented and happy life. tied statistically with Bongbong Marcos’ 25%. Leni And now, the battle begins. Quo vadis, Leni? cargado, who administered land for the Span- (For feedbacks, comments… please email won the vice-presidency by a razor-thin margin ([email protected]) ish feudal lord or encomendero/hacendero”. the author @ [email protected]). Telltale Signs

The Opinions expressed by our writers and The ironic twist in the Trump-Duterte lovefest contributors do not in any way reflect the opinion of the management of Fortune News By: RODEL RODIS “We don’t have any quarrels. I can always be a Media Inc. friend to anybody especially to a president, a chief The day after Don- executive of another country. He has not meddled Fortune News Media Inc. Publisher ald Trump won the US in the human rights,” he said. presidency in a stunning The last comment was a pointed jab at Pres. Harvey Barkin upset, Pres. Rodrigo Barack Obama whom Duterte famously attacked Editor-in-Chief Duterte declared the as a “son of a whore” for criticizing his human Edwina Aniag end of his personal war rights record which has claimed the lives of an Vice President for Marketing and Operations with the United States. average of 44 Filipinos a day. Obama has said Gary De Guzman “I don’t want to fight that although he very much wants to partner with Vice President for Community Relations now that Trump’s there. the Philippines, he wants a partnership that is I would like to congrat- “consistent with international norms and rule of Anchet Manosca ulate President Trump. law.” Creative and Production Manager Mabuhay, Mr. Trump!” “We’re not going to back off on our position Atty. Crispin Lozano Duterte personally conveyed his congratula- that if we’re working with a country, whether it’s Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis tions to Trump in a telephone call on December on anti-terrorism, whether it’s on going after drug Ben Lou / Perry Diaz 2, when they engaged in what a Duterte aide traffickers, as despicable as these networks may give an apology, I will answer him… Who is he Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko described as a “very engaging, animated” seven- be, as much as damage as they do, it is important Columnists to confront me, as a matter of fact, America has minute phone conversation where both of them from our perspective to make sure that we do it one too many to answer for their misdeeds in this Macon Ramos-Araneta extended travel invitations to the other. “He has the right way,” he added. country.” Corina Oliquino invited me to visit New York and Washington DC. Obama had warned that employing unlawful It was at that Manila press conference when Daniel Llanto He said if I am around he wants to be notified of means in solving a problem would only spawn Anna Ven Sobrevinas Duterte first displayed photos of the atrocities Correspondents my presence,” Duterte said. even more problems.’’Because the consequences committed by American soldiers in the Battle of In a press conference held the morning when you do it the wrong way, innocent people Bud Dajo in 1906. Renato Amon after his phone call, Duterte said that Trump get hurt. And you have a whole bunch of unin- Senior Account Executive Duterte provided the answer to his question was “quite sensitive to our war on drugs, and he tended consequences that don’t solve the prob- a week earlier in a speech in Davao Oriental on Ann Gauna wishes me well in my campaign and said that we lem,” he said. Marketing Associate August 26 when he said: “There was this histori- are doing, as he so put it, the right way,” Duterte Duterte expressed his animosity towards cal injustice committed against the Moro people. FilAm Star is published weekly said. Trump’s transition team only confirmed Obama at a press conference held just before The Americans may want to know that during by Fortune News Media Inc. that Duterte “offered his congratulatory wishes to he left for the ASEAN conference in Laos last their campaign in Mindanao, they slaughtered www.filamstar.com President-elect Trump” but did not mention any September. “Who is he?” he asked. “When as a 600,000 Moro people.” Headquarters: comment by Trump on Duterte’s war on drugs. matter of fact at the turn of the century, before In his address to the leaders of the 18- 1028 Mission St., 2/F, Duterte said that he was not surprised that the Americans left the Philippines, in the pacifica- nation ASEAN group, Duterte dispensed with his San Francisco, CA 94103; the two men had exhibited “rapport” towards tion campaign of the Moros in this island, there prepared speech and continued his fiery tirade Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 each other. He previously told the press that he were around 6 million Moro population, how against the US military killings in Mindanao Email: [email protected] thought the two of them would get along well. many died? If you can answer this question and TO PAGE A7 Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star A7 Dick Gordon. guns at the police officers who were trying to Street Talk The report concluded that allegations of serve a search warrant on them. “extra-judicial killings” attributed to the Duterte In an official statement, the NBI announced, administration and, by extension, to Duterte “After conducting an exhaustive investigation of Do we really need a gangster for a President? himself, had no basis in fact. Gordon apparently the incidents surrounding the killing of Mayor drew his committee’s conclusion because of the Espinosa and Yap, the NBI concluded that the GREG B. MACABENTA narco-state, no quibbling there. Those in denial may probably want to embrace the ‘EJK’ argu- seemingly unreliable testimony and allegations testimonies of several witnesses had disputed the Following the ment. I won’t because no state sanctions what of self-confessed Davao Death Squad member, claim of an alleged shootout between the CIDG postings and counter- is deemed extra-judicial. But I do recognize that Edgar Matobato. Operatives and Inmates Mayor Espinosa and postings on Facebook of there are killings from police operations and that This conclusion was drawn after only six Raul Yap but a ‘rub out.’’” folks whom I regard as is murder (if there is intent) or homicide. Both Senate hearings, which had ostensibly been In other words – in case Senator Dick Gor- righteous and intelligent, crimes are in our Revised Penal Code. If there stymied by the withdrawal of Matobato from the don fails to understand the meaning of the NBI I have frankly begun to is a country waging a fight against illegal drugs hearings by Senator Antonio Trillanes IV. findings – the killing of Espinosa and Yap was sense that there is a new and has an immaculate slate in terms of number Apparently, Gordon and his committee as “extra-judicial” as a Webster dictionary could standard of right and of persons killed, please let us know. That model members gave no weight to a report of Human possibly define it. wrong that has emerged in the Philippines with can be studied and probably implemented in our Rights Watch in 2009 to the effect that “there And how can that killing be connected to the assumption of the presidency by Rodrigo country, if only to stress the obvious that there is were 124 targeted killings in Davao City from the President of the Republic of the Philippines? Duterte. none.” 1998 to 2008 alone, during Duterte’s term as Simple. Duterte has declared his support for Duterte has been widely criticized, not only One gets the impression that, in the Philip- mayor.” A 103-page report included accounts of the accused PNP officers and has dismissed the by the local political opposition but by world pines, there is no other option between the devil people with insider knowledge of the so-called veracity of the NBI findings. leaders and international media for his bloody and the deep blue sea or between Duterte and Davao Death Squad, the victims’ families, wit- As quoted by the media, Duterte declared in war on drugs. Even Senator Panfilo Lacson, who Robredo. nesses, lawyers and local government officials. a speech in Mandaluyong City: cannot be classified as “yellow” – a pejorative, As far as this opinion maker is concerned, But for some fantastic reason, the Gordon “I will not allow these guys to go to prison, that once referred mainly to the Aquinos and killings resulting from “police operations” are committee concluded that there was no such even if the NBI says it was murder. After all, the the Liberal Party but now includes anyone who happening – it is a given – but she considers thing as a Davao Death Squad, based on Mato- NBI is under me, the Department of Justice is is seen as anti-Duterte – has just “sounded the them the price to be paid in the fight against il- bato’s inconsistencies. under me.” alarm…over daily killings in the country” attrib- legal drugs. I’m sure that Gordon is familiar with the In typical Duterte-speak (where he routinely uted to the campaign against drugs. The argument actually sounds reasonable if term “due diligence.” That was sorely lacking in contradicts himself), he said, “But to tell you, I do Said Lacson on Twitter, “For someone like one paints a broad portrait of nameless suspects the efforts of his committee. Knowing Gordon to not interfere. They have findings, good. File the me who’s not a human rights advocate to get – drug lords, pushers, users – who needed to be be a former Procter & Gamble brand manager case but I won’t leave the policemen implicated in worried about the daily killings, something very “killed dead” like insects in the Flit commercial. and an efficient public official, I can only guess the killing.” wrong must be going on.” But if one were to take the trouble to go through that, after submitting that report, he is embar- And in a perversion of his oath of office, Anyone familiar with the track record of Lac- the body count and identify the fatalities, you rassed when he looks at himself in the mirror in Duterte, in effect, declared that his loyalty to the son as a former chief of the Philippine National would realize that each was a human being with the morning. country ends where his loyalty to his policemen Police and as an officer of the dreaded Metrocom families and loved ones grieving over their sum- That kind of sloppy work is not worthy of a begins: “Whatever the police say, that’s the truth Intelligence and Security Group (MISG) must mary liquidation. person of his caliber. for me. The NBI said it was murder. The police take his comments seriously. Indeed, it is so easy to generalize and dismiss Apparently, Gordon and his team did not said, ‘Sir, he fought back.’ I believe the police. And yet, supporters of Duterte, including the fatalities as part of the “just war” – unless, even bother to recall the instances when Duterte Why would I sacrifice the police for that?” those whom I have known to be morally and ethi- of course, you happen to be a relative or a dear boasted, during the presidential campaign, about And in his now familiar Duterte bluster cally straight, have deftly sidestepped the issue of friend of one or a couple of the victims. After all, personally killing some criminals while mayor of (shades of riding a jet-ski to the Spratleys to the killings – now going into the thousands and who bothers about the hundreds liquidated by Davao City. confront the Chinese), Duterte declared: “As a counting – by pointing out the devastation caused Rambo in his movies? Worse yet, Gordon and company have not matter of fact, I’m ready to go to jail for them, no by the drug menace and the dire consequences if Yet the columnist’s acknowledgment that even taken note of the findings of the National problem.” Duterte were to be deposed and Vice-President there have been police killings – and some could Bureau of Investigation after a probe much It may not be a problem for Rodrigo Duterte, Leni Robredo were to assume the presidency. be considered murder - appears more reason- more thorough than Gordon’s into the killing of but it certainly is for the people of the Philip- Wrote one Manila columnist who apparently able than the conclusion drawn by the Senate Albuera, Leyte Mayor Rolando Espinosa and a pines. That’s the macho language of a gang boss believes that the Philippines is a narco-state, or Committee on Justice and Human Rights and fellow inmate, Raul Yap, inside a jail cell. rather than the president of our hapless republic. one under the thumb of drug lords: the Committee on Public Order and Dangerous Elements of the PNP had justified the shoot- Do we really need a gangster for a president? “So let us call a spade a spade. We are a Drugs after a brief inquiry chaired by Senator ing of the two because they had allegedly drawn ([email protected])

DUTERTE BANS “I think his men are aware that we would De Castro. the reigning Miss Universe, she will definitely be ... FROM PAGE A1 like him to be part of it, to judge it or just to “That is why we’ve decided that all of the going around the country with the girls. She will watch it. But he has not yet given us a concrete preliminaries will just be down south, in the sort of act as a tour guide for the girls. So far, De Castro said the President told her to hold answer,” she said. Mall of Asia compound to avoid too much incon- the plans would be to bring them in January to it in Cebu and not in Davao because he will not De Castro said pre-pageant events and com- venience,” she further stated. Baguio City, Cebu, Palawan, Davao and a whole relax his rules on having swimsuit competition petitions will be held in Cebu, Vigan, Baguio, She said a special section is being readied in lot of other places,” said De Castro. in the entire Davao province. Davao and other key provinces in the country. the venue in case Duterte decides to watch the American TV host-comedian Steve Harvey She also said the DOT would want Duterte She noted that it would be business as usual pageant. will host the upcoming Miss Universe pageant. to be a judge in the prestigious contest although when the Philippines hosts the Miss Universe During the papal visit in January 2015, In fact, De Castro said that when she told it is a rule in the Miss Universe Organization pageant in January. Duterte, then Davao City mayor, got stuck in a Duterte that Harvey would host the event, the not to have a judge from the host country. She Aside from the no swimsuit competition in traffic jam along Roxas Boulevard after the lanes President said the TV host was welcome in the thinks an exception can be made if it is the Davao City, she said the President wants no road were closed to ensure the security and smooth Philippines. President. closures and no relocation of the homeless. She flow of traffic for the papal delegation. De Castro said the President has no objec- “As of now, we are still appealing the rule said the President was firm in his decision to Duterte cursed Pope Francis and said tions to Harvey’s hosting the Miss Universe of Miss Universe that there should be no judge avoid disrupting the regular flow of traffic and “Pope, you son of a b****, go home.” These re- pageant. She said Duterte’s earlier expression of from the host country. But then I was saying, creating public inconvenience for the duration of marks of Duterte drew outrage from the Catholic disapproval appeared to have been a joke, since what if the President is the one judging it? May- activities and the main pageant. faithful. he let out a hearty laugh when he learned that be you should relax that a bit,” De Castro said. “When we presented it to President Duterte, The Tourism official also said reigning Miss Harvey was again being tapped as emcee after But if it won’t be possible, she said the that’s the first thing he said: No roads would be Universe Pia Wurtzbach will join the candidates his epic blunder when he mistakenly announced President could af least attend the international closed, no people would be hidden. We should in various activities in major tourist attractions the name of Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez as competition slated on January 30, 2017 at the show the beauty of the Philippines, that despite in the country. the new Miss Universe instead of Wurtzbach. Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City. poverty, there is beauty in the country,” related “Since she’s from the Philippines and she’s 8 TRILLION PESOS Local access roads to tourism destinations, TELLTALE SIGNS Muslim terrorists today. ... FROM PAGE A1 roll-on, roll-off (RORO) ports, airports, and farm- ... FROM PAGE A6 “I read a story, it’s a terrible story, but I’ll to-market roads will also be prioritized. tell you,” Trump began. “Early in the century, Carlos Dominguez III during the third Quarterly The Duterte administration intends to spend showing the delegates the same gruesome last century, General Pershing — did you ever Roundtable Program of the Wallace Business Fo- PHP 860.7 billion on big-ticket infra projects next photos he presented in Manila just a few days hear — rough guy, rough guy. And they had a rum last December 2 in Makati. year. before. terrorism problem. And there’s a whole thing “Budget Sec. Ben Diokno estimates that we Tax overhaul “This is my ancestor they killed,” he re- with swine and animals and pigs — and you need to invest about PHP 8 trillion over the next six To finance the huge build-up, the government vealed. “Why now we are talking about human know the story. They don’t like that. They were years on infra to be at par with our neighbors. To wants to overhaul the country’s tax system. In Sep- rights?’ he asked. having a tremendous problem with terrorism. tember, the DOF submitted to Congress the first in put this amount in perspective, the total resources Duterte had previously disclosed that he Pershing caught 50 terrorists. He took 50 bul- a series of tax reforms, from which it expects a net of the Philippine financial system is PHP 16.2 has Moro blood through his grandmother. His lets, and he dipped them in pig’s blood. And he gain of PHP 174.2 billion by 2018, when it hopes to trillion. That is a huge price tag, to be sure, and it had his men load his rifles and he lined up the start implementing the new system. The Package oldest son, Paulo, the vice mayor of Davao City, is my happy duty to find the revenues to support converted to Islam when he married a Muslim 50 people, and they shot 49 of those people. And that,” he said at the forum. One program calls for the lowering of personal in- Tausug woman. the 50th person, he said, ‘You go back to your The government’s goal is to sustain economic come tax rates, expanding the base for value-added During the Philippine presidential cam- people and you tell them what happened.’ And growth at around seven percent in order to raise tax (VAT), and raising excise taxes on petroleum for 25 years, there wasn’t a problem.” per-capita gross national income (GNI) to $4,100 products and passenger cars. paign, Duterte described himself as the “Moro by 2022. At this level, the country would be ap- Under the DOF proposal, some three million people’s president”. At his rallies in the Moro Trump was wrong. It was not Gen. Pershing proximating per-capita GNI levels in Thailand and taxpayers with net taxable income of up to PHP provinces of Mindanao, Duterte pledged to “cor- who ordered the attack that led to the slaughter China today, Dominguez said. He added that if the 250,000 per year will automatically be paying less rect the historical injustice committed against of Muslims at Bud Dajo but Gen. Leonard Wood momentum is sustained, the country would become taxes. On the other hand, ultra-rich taxpayers, the Moro people” as his Moro supporters would who himself would later seek the presidential an advanced nation by 2040 with per-capita GNI in or those with net taxable income exceeding PHP chant “Allahu Akbar” (“God is great”). nomination in the 1920 Republican primaries. the vicinity of $12,000, on par with current levels 5 million per year, will be slapped a 35 percent Given his professed closeness to Filipino In 1906, Gen. Wood was the governor of in South Korea and Malaysia. marginal rate. The threshold for a 32 percent Moros, it would have been expected that Duterte Moro province when he imposed a cedula tax “By some estimates, we are at least a couple of income tax rate, the highest in the current system, would find more kinship with Barack Hus- on the Moros which created great resentment decades behind our neighbors with regard to infra. is PHP 500,000 in net taxable income. Meanwhile, sein Obama whose own father was a Muslim against American rule. The Moros who refused We need everything from new airport capacity, a the lowest ongoing tax bracket is 5 percent tax on from Kenya and who, as president, has called to pay the cedula tax fled to the volcanic crater income exceeding PHP 10,000. cheaper and more efficient power sector, actu- for Americans to be respectful of Muslims who of Bud Dajo where water was plentiful and the The DOF expects to incur revenue losses of up ally functioning rail systems and even new digital number 1.6 billion of the world’s population and people could farm rice and potatoes. to PHP 127.4 billion from the lowering of personal pathways. We need more public health care facili- On March 2, 1906, Gen. Wood dispatched income tax rates. It plans to offset this with higher not to lump them all as “terrorists” which, he ties and classrooms. According to some planning said, would only play into the hands of ISIS. an assault force of 600 American soldiers to experts, we do not only need to decongest cities but tax take from fuel and passenger cars, estimated to In contrast, Trump gained political promi- climb to the top of the crater where, on March do so by building new urban centers,” he added. reach PHP 301.6 billion in 2018. nence by questioning Obama’s American citizen- 5, 1906, they fired their weapons into the crater Some PHP 427.5 billion worth of projects have Just like with the personal income tax, the where the Tausug Moros were holed up. Out already been approved by the National Economic restructuring of excise taxes is designed to gener- ship after falsely claiming that Obama was a of the estimated 800 to 1,000 Moros at Bud and Development Authority, the body that priori- ate more revenues from the rich. For instance, the Muslim who was born in Kenya. After propagat- tizes government capital spending. The list includes DOF said its studies show that the top two million ing this lie for five years, Trump finally retracted Dajo, only six survived. Eyewitness reports that 18 mega projects including the improvement of households in the country, comprising about 10 his claim in September but without issuing an corpses were piled five deep, and many of the the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and the percent, consume almost 60 percent of petroleum apology to Obama. bodies were shot multiple times. The photos of South Line of the North-South Railway Project, to products and commuting costs. The richest one A year ago, on December 8, 2015, Trump that slaughter still haunts Duterte. be financed through public-private partnership. percent component, or the top 200,000 house- called for a ban on Muslims traveling to the Trump and Duterte may have different Official development assistance will be tapped for holds, account for 20 percent of consumption. United States. In an anti-immigration speech views about what American soldiers did to the a bus rapid transit and flood management projects With respect to vehicle tax, the DOF aims in Portland, Maine on August 5, 2016, Trump Moros in Mindanao in 1906 but they are appar- in Metro Manila, and building an international to raise the excise tax on entry-level cars sold at included the Philippines as among the “terrorist ently willing to ignore those differences because container port in Cebu and an international airport PHP 600,000 and below, from two percent to five nations” whose citizens should not be allowed they share one “huge” similarity: they are both percent. Meanwhile, luxury vehicles valued at more on Panglao Island in Bohol, a major tourist desti- entry into the United States because they would alpha males. than PHP 2.1 million would be taxed 60 percent nation. not be vetted by the government beforehand. As columnist Jonty Cruz observed: “For bet- of the manufacture or import price. The current Earlier disclosures by the Department of ter or worse, both men act and live like they can taxation is PHP 512,000 plus 60 percent in excess “We are letting people come in from terror- Finance (DOF) indicate that Mindanao, the Cordil- do whatever the hell they want. They don’t worry of PHP 2.1 million, so the proposed measure also ist nations that shouldn’t be allowed because you lera Autonomous Region and Eastern Visayas are can’t vet them. You have no idea who they are. about the consequences that come their way. priority areas for development. simplifies the computation. This could be the great Trojan horse of all time,” They think little of those who are against them Next year, work on the 2,000-kilometer Excise tax on fuel has not been raised since Trump said at the rally. and use their power (whatever shape or form Mindanao Railway Project is slated to begin. The 1997, while that for passenger cars was last ad- that may be) to pressure others and get their ambitious project connects Davao to Cagayan de justed 10 years ago, the DOF said. A further ironic twist in Duterte’s “bro- Oro City via the eastern part of Mindanao. Other Streamlining the VAT entails limiting exemp- mance” with Trump is that the massacre of way. It doesn’t matter if people hate them for big-ticket projects in Mindanao are the Davao Sasa tions to basic necessities such as raw food, medi- Filipino Moros which Duterte denounced in it or not. They don’t give a damn, quite frankly, Port, Davao International Airport and the Lagu- cine, healthcare and education. This means VAT Laos was the subject of a speech by Donald because for Trump and Duterte, it’s their way or indingan Airport, the main gateway in Northern would be imposed on travel, restaurant and amuse- Trump in North Charleston, South Carolina on the highway.” Mindanao. ment expenses, which senior citizens currently do February 19, 2016 but from the other side of the (Send comments to [email protected] or About PHP 31.5 billion is also earmarked next not pay for due to their blanket exemption from the incident. In his speech,Trump narrated the story mail them to the Law Offices of Rodel Rodis at year for the Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure VAT. The DOF has said senior citizens would con- of how U.S. Army Gen. John “Blackjack” Persh- 2429 Ocean Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94127 or Network designed to ease travel across the area’s tinue to receive their 20 percent discount regard- ing executed Muslim rebels in the Philippines call 415.334.7800). regional growth corridors, the DOF said. less of their income status. as an example of how the U.S. should deal with A8 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 business & tech news Net FDI inflows drop 69% to $469 million in September Itama po natin! But overall, from January to September, foreign direct investments totalled $5.87B, up by 25.3% from 2015 figures BEN LOU that would be the date to start counting the 7 years from. This is the same reason that some MANILA — Net inflows of Q: How can I get clients call me that they filed the Bankruptcy job-generating foreign direct in- my Bankruptcy off my 9 years ago and the bankruptcy is still on their vestment (FDI) fell 69.3 percent credit report? credit report, is because they are counting year-on-year in September to A: It all depends from the filing date. The date for the Bank- $469 million, the lowest so far on how long ago the ruptcy to drop off is always 7 years from the in the first three months of the discharge of the Bank- date of discharge. Duterte administration. ruptcy was. Gener- So, if you filed Bankruptcy and need some Bangko Sentral ng Pilipi- ally, any Bankruptcy help in recycling your credit, give me call so nas data released on Monday will be reported on your credit report for a we can assist in recycling your credit. We of- showed that net FDI inflows period of 7 years after the discharge date. fer Credit Repair to our clients. last September dropped by over Sometimes contacting the Credit Reporting If you need help in getting out of credit two-thirds from the $1.53- Agencies is a red tape that people just would card debts, call Debt Aid Consulting. We have billion worth posted during not want to deal with so they just wait until free Credit Repair after your program. We do the same month in 2015 — the the Bankruptcy falls off the credit report on not use call centers which keeps your informa- (photos: www.businessworld.com) highest monthly amount in its own. If it has been more than 7 years and tion safe. We have a new program that keeps eign investments in debt instru- percent year-on-year to $35 2015, hence a high base. you absolutely want it off your credit report, collectors away. You need not even have to ments or intercompany borrow- million. September’s figure was you can file a complaint with the Consumer bother with them. We take Federal Credit ings to fund existing operations During the first nine the lowest amount of net FDI Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). They Unions, Military Debts and Payday loans in as well as business expansion, months, investments in debt in- inflows since President Duterte will work on solving your problem with any our program too. which account for the bulk of struments jumped 40.8 percent came into office, compared agency who has given you a tough time on I am Ben Lou, President and CEO of Debt FDI, declined by 66.3 percent to to $3.713 billion from $2.637 with July’s $503 million and achieving your goal usually at a shorter period Aid Consulting. My company has A+ rating $296 million from $880 million billion a year ago. August’s $711 million, BSP data of time. They also take complaints from con- with the Better Business Bureau in the US a year ago. Also, equity capital posted showed. sumers who have been wronged by companies and Canada. This record speaks for itself. We Equity capital, meanwhile, net inflows of $1.614 billion, up But during the first nine who scam consumers. Companies who charge are here to help. registered net inflows of $138 9.3 percent year-on-year, as the months of the year, it was in advance fees have been banned by the Federal We are the only Filipino Debt company million, as the $157-million in- $1.862 billion in gross place- June—the Aquino administra- Trade Commission (FTC) but there are still which is legal in the US and Canada. I have a flows exceeded the $19-million ments surpassed the withdraw- tion’s final month in office, some lawbreakers out there. new US program which will beat everyone’s outflows. The net inflow in eq- als worth $248 million. marking a transition to the new There are some things to consider when pricing. Also we protect you against lawsuits, uity capital, however, was down The end-of-September government—that the small- the Bankruptcy would come off your credit phone harassment and letters. Call Debt Aid 77 percent from $600 million gross equity capital placements est monthly amount of net FDI report. If you filed a Chapter 7 which is the Consulting! last year. largely came from Hong Kong, inflows was recorded, at $238 complete discharge of all unsecured debts, Reminder, debt companies using Manila According to the BSP, the Japan, Singapore, Taiwan and million. you must wait an absolute 7 years from the office call centers will soon be banned. It top sources of equity capital the US, the BSP said. From January to Septem- date of discharge. If you filed a Chapter 13 would be very hard to get back your payments last September were Germany, Most of the nine-month ber, the total net FDI inflows Bankruptcy, which is a partial repayment from the Philippines. If testimonials are paid Japan, the Netherlands, Taiwan equity capital haul were poured reached $5.875 billion, up 25.3 program of all unsecured debts, then depend- for, then it is fake. and the United States. into the following sectors: percent from $4.69 billion in ing on how long your repayment term was, Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at tutu- In terms of sectors, the accommodation and food the same nine-month period in once all debts have been discharged and the lungan po namin kayo. biggest equity capital place- service; financial and insurance; 2015. court sends you the date of Total Discharge, Itama po natin ang mali! ments that month were infused manufacturing; real estate; “The continued FDI inflows into administrative and support and wholesale and retail trade reflect investors’ confidence service activities, financial and activities. in the country’s economy on insurance, manufacturing, real Total reinvestment of earn- account of sustained growth estate, as well as wholesale and ings during the nine-month pe- Call us to advertise visit prospects and strong macroeco- retail trade. riod, however, fell 4.8 percent nomic fundamentals,” the BSP Reinvestment of earnings year-on-year to $548 million. 1-650-278-0692 www.filamstar.com said in a statement. in September also slid 31.1 (Ben O. De Vera / inquirer.net) In September alone, for- Cuba signs deal with Google for faster access Cuba signed a deal with nalists were allowed at the can be extremely slow. as the historic thaw between Google Monday to enable press conference announc- Currently, all data ar- the old Cold War foes faces faster access to content from ing the deal. The signatories rives via fiber optic cable an uncertain future under the US tech giant on the posed for photographs -- from Venezuela. President-elect Donald communist island, where in- Schmidt at one point posing Expanding Cubans’ in- Trump. ternet service is notoriously alongside a large photo ternet access was one of the Trump, who takes office limited and slow. of late Cuban leader Fidel stated goals of US President on January 20, has criticized Eric Schmidt, executive Castro. chairman of Google parent Cuba has one of the company Alphabet, signed lowest internet access rates the deal in Havana alongside in the world. the head of Cuban state tele- Last year, just one- communications company third of Cubans went Etecsa, Mayra Arevich. online, according to official Under the deal, Cuba statistics. will gain access to a net- The island has some work called Google Global 900 state-run internet ca- Cache, which stores content fes and 200 wifi hotspots. from Google sites such as But connecting costs $2 an Gmail and YouTube on local hour, a fortune in a country servers, accelerating us- where the average monthly ers’ access, Google said in a income is $29. statement. Only restricted profes- “This agreement will sions such as journalists Etecsa Pres. Mayra Arevich (left) and Google Chair. Eric Schmidt (right) enable users in Cuba to re- and doctors are allowed (photo: www.stamfordadvocate.com) duce access time for Google internet service at home. internet content, bringing The government has Barack Obama’s rapproche- Obama for not extracting better speed and quality,” allowed Cubans to access ment with the island, an- more concessions from Cuba Etecsa said. some Google content since nounced in December 2014. on democracy, human rights No questions from jour- 2014, but connection times The Google deal comes and the economy. (AFP) Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star A9 world news U.S. trade group will work with Trump; defend free trade rules Lasting IS defeat unlikely A century-old US trade open. group on Monday pledged “And we’re prepared to anytime soon: report to work with the incoming argue against the use of trade The threat from the at IS, the group retains appeal administration to improve restrictions as a way of achiev- Islamic State group will likely for would-be jihadists, the re- access to overseas markets for ing greater economic growth endure for years to come, even port notes, saying IS will likely American companies, but also -- history has shown that really if it loses all the territory it once endure for “years to come as a to fight against protectionism. isn’t an effective way of doing held under its so-called “caliph- pure insurgency using terrorist Rufus Yerxa, head of that,” he said. ate,” experts warned Monday. tactics.” the 300-company National The NFTC also recognizes In a report, 20 experts on “It revolutionized mo- Foreign Trade Council, said that while one in five Ameri- the Middle East and jihadism bilization of supporters and his organization is prepared cans depend on trade for their also described how organiza- sympathizers in the West, a to work with President-elect jobs, many have been left tions such as Al-Qaeda and lasting legacy as well as a future Donald Trump to improve behind by globalization and the group formerly known as threat,” it adds. conditions for US exporters. technological change -- an anti- the Al-Nusra Front are adapt- Meanwhile, another However, he declined trade sentiment that was a big ing methods and continuing to extremist group has grown to be drawn into discuss- part of Trump’s success. expand. rapidly in Syria. ing some of Tump’s more The group also urges a A US-led coalition has Fateh al-Sham, the former inflammatory statements, major focus on worker adjust- since 2014 been striking IS Al-Qaeda affiliate previously like threats to impose huge President-elect Donald Trump (left) and NFTC head Rufus Yerxa (right) ment and retraining, something targets in Iraq and Syria, push- known as Al-Nusra Front, now punitive tariffs on China and (photos: www.vulture.com / www.eu-ems.com) the US lags well behind other ing the extremist group out of has about 10,000 fighters, with renegotiate free trade deals, of the World Trade Organiza- ter trade rules for US exporters, major countries. vast areas and forcing it try to nearly a third of its ranks com- saying he would wait to see tion. reduced corporate taxes and big Yerxa said if done right, cling to two remaining power ing from Russia, Europe and what the actual policies are. “I don’t want to rule out spending to improve infrastruc- with these programs coupled centers, Mosul in Iraq and elsewhere in the Middle East, “The reason I want to be that possibility,” he told re- ture. with lower taxes, free trade Raqa in Syria. the report states. optimistic is because I’ve seen porters. “I think we can make However, the organiza- and improved infrastructure, Operations have already Additionally, Al-Qaeda this before, prior incoming progress once it becomes clear tion, which accounts for about “there will be a lot less need for cost more than $10 billion and has persisted despite the 2011 administrations where there’s to people that protectionism $3 trillion in worldwide sales, politicians to be focusing on coalition aircraft have dropped death of its leader Osama bin a lot of dire predictions about isn’t the answer.” stresses the importance of a taking counterproductive trade more than 16,500 bombs. Laden. what’s going to happen, and Yerxa presented the rules-based system where all actions as a way of solving our Coordinated by the The report describes how in the end very positive things NFTC’s newest policy brief countries, including the United economic problems.” (AFP) United States Institute of Peace the organization has become an have happened,” said Yerxa, a which favors many policies States, abides by the global (USIP), the report highlights increasingly savvy political op- former deputy director general Trump has been pushing: bet- trade rules and keep markets how the relatively narrow mili- erator, while IS relies on ruth- tary focus overlooks broader lessness and brutal coercion to issues that enabled the rise of hold power. Oil prices surge on output deal, Dow hits new record groups like IS. Al-Qaeda “has demon- “Eliminating an extrem- strated an ability to evolve World oil prices jumped Kathleen Brooks told AFP. expect the US central bank potential downgrade due to ist group physically does not and adapt to shifting political Monday after non-OPEC Oil prices surged by more to follow this week’s hike higher to finance a potential defang its ideology or change trends,” the report states. producers struck a deal to cut that $2 a barrel for much of with more increases in 2017, purchase of the stake in Sky the underlying circumstances “In the future, Al-Qaeda output, while US and European the day after 11 non-OPEC although political uncertainty it does not already own. Fox that allowed the group to gain has the potential to be a greater stocks were subdued before a countries agreed to huge cuts in could extend the timetable. said it reached an agreement traction in the first place,” the jihadist threat than” IS, it says. key Fed meeting this week. crude production, while OPEC The US will also see a host in principle with Sky, but that report states. Indices in London, Frank- kingpin Saudi Arabia also of economic data releases this there were no guarantees a deal “Reconstruction, rehabili- President-elect Donald furt and Paris pulled back after signalled a bigger reduction in week, including the November would be struck. tation and particularly reconcil- Trump has claimed he would soaring last week when the output than previously agreed. report on retail sales. In Italy, shares of Monte iation are just as important as “bomb the shit” out of the IS European Central Bank decided The deal, called historic by Trump tweets hit defense dei Paschi di Siena (BMPS) any military counterterrorism group, though he offered few to extend its massive quantita- some observers, boosted shares Defense shares pulled back bank jumped 3.7 percent on campaign in building societal details. tive easing stimulus to Decem- of ExxonMobil, Total and Royal after President-elect Donald reports that Italian authorities resilience against the appeal of Such rhetoric is unlikely to ber 2017. Dutch Shell by one percent or Trump’s blasted costs for could bail out the bank if it fails extremism. Failure to carry out help matters, the report notes. The US was mixed with the more. Lockheed Martin’s F-35 stealth to find private financing. these steps has been a recur- “The jihadist agenda is Dow advancing to record close Looking ahead, there fighter on Twitter. Lockheed Italy’s main stocks index rent problem.” likely to be heavily defined by for the sixth straight session, seems little room for doubt that lost 2.5 percent, and General pushed higher, with sentiment The report highlights where and how -- and how but the S&P 500 and Nasdaq the US Federal Reserve will Dynamics, Northrop Grumman boosted after Paolo Gentiloni regional youth unemployment, much -- the outside world in- retreating on weakness in tech- raise the benchmark inter- and Raytheon all fell. was Sunday named Italy’s new with the rate of jobless youths trudes. The larger the interven- nology equities. est rate in the coming week Twenty-First Century Fox prime minister following Mat- in Gaza and the West Bank now tion, especially by the West, the “Markets are taking a for only the second time in a shed 6.2 percent after Moody’s teo Renzi’s recent resignation. 43 percent, 35 percent in Iraq, greater the reaction,” it states. breather after a strong run,” decade. warned that the media com- (AFP) and 42 percent in Egypt. (AFP) City Index research director Many market watchers pany was under review for a As the coalition chips away A10 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star B1

without overlapping specialties. Siao also pointed out that the much-maligned location for Community the Center is actually an advan- tage for chronic patients need- ing frequent medical services in a week or a month. Evergreen Medical Center is conveniently Evergreen Medical Center is one of the located dab smack at the VTA hub where buses arrive from last bastions of independent physicians and go almost everywhere. A separate building houses By Harvey I. Barkin the surgery department with ing, ambulatory and surgical Ergo, EMC, Siao said. three operating rooms. The first departments, clinical diagnos- “(The Center) is largely owned floor in the main building of tic and pathology labs, urgent and operated by independent the Center houses the urgent care/occupational medicine physicians.” In fact, there are 23 care department. The second clinics, and multi-specialty partners (local physicians and floor has the pharmacy, the clinics for surgical and medi- non-physicians) and Siao owns MRI, eight to 10 blood-drawing cal specialists. The building is majority. station that can serve up to 300 solar-powered, equipped with Siao also recognized patients. The Center also has 12 emergency generator and space partner “Uncle” Vince Song- to 15 patient exam rooms and Facade of the Evergreen Medical for up to 144 vehicles to park. cayawon’s “integrity.” Song- eight physicians when it gets Santa Clara County Supervisor Dave Cortese (1st from left), San Jose Vice- Center At the ribbon-cutting cayawon was a Trustee with the up to speed. Evergreen Medi- mayor Rose Herrera (3rd from left), Vince Songcayawon (4th from left) and ceremony last December 3, Evergreen School District from cal Center has an IT back bone, Dr. Donald Siao (5th from left) at the ribbon-cutting SAN JOSE – With doctors GP for 26 years, Donald Siao 2004 until he lost this year. But which means any specialist can who make house calls practi- welcomed guests, friends and always one for public service, he set up clinic in minutes with cally extinct, can one still find city officials like Santa Clara didn’t just hang up his fedora just a laptop. good specialists roaming free President and Board of Supervi- but co-envisioned and realized Herrera said her mother and independent from corpo- sors Dave Cortese and San Jose Evergreen Medical Center. was seen by Dr. Siao and at rate medical institutions? Vice-mayor Rose Herrera. It took five years to com- that time, saw the need for a Definitely, yes, and ironi- Siao recalled a Norman plete Evergreen Medical Center. state-of-the-art medical center cally, at the once blighted spot Rockwell painting – like time It grew out of a need to access in Evergreen. She cleared the at the almost hidden side of when family practitioners still specialists in a congested part bureaucratic red tape when the Eastridge Shopping Mall along made house calls. He said that of San Jose which is a black building was acquired by the Quimby Road. There used to “healthcare has been taken over hole for specialist doctors. Siao partners. be a used tire shop there with a by large (medical) institutions. said the partners realized the Cortese noted the trans- bank concealing it from view at Independent physicians are at a necessity of patients having to formation of the site into the the back. disadvantage. They are a dying drive all across town for chronic Evergreen Medical Center and Now the Evergreen Medical breed.” conditions that require atten- said, “now it’s one of the crown Center occupies a 42,000-sq. ft. He also said that most tion from different doctors with jewels of Evergreen.” space with a private, state-of- independent practitioners are different skill sets and processes Dr. Siao said that with San Jose Vice-mayor Rose Herrera (2nd from left), Dr. Donald Siao (3rd from left), Santa Clara County Supervisor Dave Cortese (4th from left) and “concerned with the individual (like blood and other tests) nec- Evergreen Medical Center, “we the-art delivery center that is Vince Songcayawon (5th from left) comprehensive and integrated (in) patient care” and that (with essary for proper diagnosis. send a message out. That we for outpatient healthcare. independent practitioners) “pa- He also said that it is dif- can independently take charge the Evergreen community but Marcy Reyes at 408-223-3350 The 2-storey Center has its tients can choose their health- ficult to find a medical center of our own destiny, build it, own for all individual practitioners.” or 408-223-3360 for leasing own pharmacy, full-scale imag- care and not worry about it.” with clinics housing doctors it and control it. It’s not only for Call Vince Songcayawon or opportunities

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Michael Moon receiving the Lelith Adriano receiving her Gary De Guzman receiving his Trina Soledad receiving her Glenda Bule receiving the Perry Diaz receiving his Certificate Certificates of Appreciation for Best Certificate of Appreciation Certificate of Appreciation Certificate of Appreciation Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of Appreciation Collateral and Debt Aid Consulting of Jho Bule

PG&E receiving its Certificate of LBC receiving its Certificate of Appreciation Appreciation

Philippine Airline receiving its MB Financial and Insurance Certificate of Appreciation Services receiving its Certificate of Appreciation

Time Advertising receiving its Certificate of Appreciation Mission Bank receiving its Certificate of Appreciation

Attendees of the 2nd Filam Star Newspaper Advertisers Night posing for posterity last December 9 at Rene’s Fine Dining in Colma

Grand Prize winner, Josh Parina, FilAm Star’s second Advertisers Appreciation night at Rene’s Fine Dining receiving the roundtrip airfare to the NBA receiving its Certificate of Philippines courtesy of Philippine Appreciation Airlines FilAm Star feted its valued advertisers and media partners last December 9 at Rene’s Ibarrientos. Fine Dining Restaurant inside Lucky Chances Casino in Colma. This was the second year of Certificate of Recognitions were handed out to FAS’ valued advertisers and outstand- celebration after the installation of its new management and staff. FAS contributor Trina ing employees. FNM CEO Tricia Castellanos and President Remil Medina handed out the Soledad played host for the night, alongside Marketing VP Edwina Aniag. Ichiban regular certificates. Jelly Balbuena provided entertainment as the guests dined on prime roast beef and more. Free balikbayan box shipments from Mon Cargo and LBC, various items from Lucky Community leader and organizer Ben Menor complimented the FAS staff and told Money Remittance and Mr. and Mrs. Rene Llamas of Dagupenos Association, gift certifi- guests to advertise in FilAm Star. cate from Cafe Colma and One night stay in Fairfield Inn & Suites San Carlos and other Guests that night included: PG&E, Time Advertising Agency, Philippine Airline, LBC prizes were raffled off. The grand prize winner of a free round trip ticket to the Philippines Mundial Corporation, Bayanihan Cargo, Skylawn , Nurse Builder’s Academy, MB Financial was FAS’ new correspondent Josh Parina. and Insurance Services, and many others. Also present were Fortune News Media Presi- Other invited guests who were not able to make it will be receiving their certificates in dent Remill Medina, CEO, Tricia Castellanos and guests from Mission National Bank, the mail. Lucky Chances Casino, and Lucky Money Remittance, Daly City community leader, Perla Photos by: Glenda and Jerry

Holiday celebrations all over the Bay area

Christmas party at the Pilipino Senior Resource Center headed by Filipino- American Chamber of Commerce of San Mateo - Holiday Party . Left photo shows bingo winner Olive Parina (left) with FACC President , Atty. Executive Director Cecille Gregorio-Ascalon (standing middle) Reuben Nocos (right). Shout out for Ms. Blessy Valera for the job well done.

Summit Bank Foundation 20th Anniversary Celebration - Red & White Ball held last Dec. 3 at the Diablo Country Club. Lucky Chances was a platinum Christmas party at the PBRC at Hapag Pilipino in Daly City headed by its Christmas party of the Samahang Ilocano Northern California chapter sponsor and was headed by Senior OSM Dustin Chase (standing middle). President Ray Satorre (seated in the middle) Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star B3 community Join SF PCG as Overseas Voting Registration opens SAN FRANCISCO – The Philippine Consulate General is pleased to announce awareness that the voter registration period for the 2019 Philippine National Elections will commence on 01 December 2016 and end on 30 September 2018. In its efforts to reach out and efficiently serve all Filipinos within its ten-state Bay Area families to enroll in Covered California jurisdiction, the Consulate General, in partnership with the Commission on Elec- tions (COMELEC) is in need of two (2) motivated individuals to serve as Overseas by December 15 for January 1 coverage Voter Registration staff. The positions are project-based, and renewable periodi- - Republicans (notably cally until the end of the registration period. Senate Majority Leader Mitch Following are the positions’ duties and responsibilities: McConnell and House Speaker • Disseminating information and promoting activities regarding overseas voter registration and the Paul Ryan) have stated, as subsequent election; recently as Sunday 12/4 in an • Encoding names and registration details of Filipino citizens; • Answering public queries regarding overseas voter registration and election; interview on 60 Minutes, that • Performing administrative tasks related to overseas voter registration and election; and there will be a transition period • Assisting in other tasks related to overseas registration and voting. while they work on a ‘replace- Individuals who meet the following criteria are encouraged to apply: ment’ law. • Fluent in written and spoken English - Coming up with a replace- • Filipino language skill an advantage ment law could take as long as • Has completed a college degree in any field three years. In the meanwhile, it • Organized and detail-oriented SAN FRANCISCO – State people need to know the facts: seems likely there will be a plan • Possesses good customer service and interpersonal communication skills Assemblymember Phil Ting - Understand that there to keep people with coverage • Ability to work under pressure (D-San Francisco) and CCHP has been no change made to the - In cases like this, it is • Amenable to travel across multiple states Health Plan have joined forces ACA at this time. So, there will not uncommon for govern- Interested applicants are requested to submit the following to [email protected]: to urge Bay Area families to be no changes to 2017 coverage ment programs like ACA could • Curriculum vitae with recent 2x2 picture enroll in a qualified health plan - Covered CA would like include some type of grandfa- • Cover letter stating why you are suitable for the position through Covered California by Californians know that it will thering clause for people who • Copy of any valid government-issued ID December 15th to secure Janu- still be here for enrollees. already enrolled. This means for Interviews will be set to further discuss responsibilities and remuneration. For more information on ary 1st, 2017 coverage. - Rates people get through people who do not get them- Overseas Voting Registration, please visit the Consulate General’s website philippinessanfrancisco.org. People may not realize Covered CA will remain intact selves enrolled in a qualified the deadline to get coverage for 2017 and the premium help plan, they could be left out. Supervisor Kim leads Board of Supervisors starting January 1st is the 15th and cost-sharing subsidies are About CCHP of December. Waiting until protected under the law. Chinese Community Health the end of the month can leave Brenda Yee, CEO of CCHP Plan (CCHP) was founded in to 9 to 1 vote to fully fund Free City College people vulnerable with a gap With veto-proof vote to Fund Free City, Mayor Lee Urged to respect SF voters’ mandate & Board’s vote in their health coverage and potentially miss out on valuable San Francisco – The San Francisco Board of Supervisors voted 9 to 1 today to fully fund the Free City financial assistance. College program championed by Supervisor Kim. The vote today is the fourth official action that the Board “We owe it to ourselves has taken to support making City College free for all San Franciscans. The previous votes of the Board in- and our loved ones to benefit cluded: from the Affordable Care Act as · Passage of a resolution to make Free City College the #1 priority to fund should new revenue be long as possible,” said Assem- generated through a transfer tax increase on 7.12.2016 (passed 10 to 1 with Farrell dissenting); blymember Phil Ting (D-San · Passage of a motion to place Proposition W on the November 2016 ballot to generate new revenue for the program on 7.19.2016 (passed 10 to 1 with Farrell dissenting); and Francisco). “The deadline · Passage of legislation to create the Free City College Fund on 9.27.2016 (unanimous passage). to continue enrollment is in The $9 million budget appropriation provides $7 million in direct program funding that will allow City three short days and I want to College to enroll, tuition-free, any San Francisco resident taking credit courses. The appropriation will also encourage every person to con- 1986 with the mission to im- allow for need-based grants of up to $1000 maximum per student annually who are San Francisco residents tinue their coverage. Covered Health Plan, added, ‘It is so prove the health of our commu- enrolled in credit courses for education-related expenses, such as transportation, textbooks, and classroom California is open and taking important to make sure people nity by delivering high-quality, supplies. Up to 1% of the total budget appropriation is eligible for use by City College to implement the pro- applications this year.” get themselves covered. They affordable healthcare through gram and ensure that every student in receipt of these benefits undergoes financial aid counseling to access It is also important for do not want to be left without or culturally competent and lin- all available forms of financial aid and the remainder will seed the reserve so that the program will have a families to act quickly instead have a gap in coverage in case guistically appropriate services. one-year’s cushion should the Board of Supervisors decide in the future to discontinue the program. of waiting to see what may or unexpected health event hap- CCHP is one of five qualified “San Francisco’s middle class is shrinking – between 1990 and 2012, our middle class shrank from 45% may not happen to the Afford- pens to them.’ health plans available in San to 34% of our city population. Meanwhile the wealth gap between the poorest and wealthiest among us has able Care Act (or Obamacare) in Other facts to keep in mind Francisco and northern San grown exponentially. When we know that an additional $11,000 per year is the difference that a degree from the coming months. There are are: Mateo County through Covered City College can make, we have to act now. If we say we care about growing and strengthening our working rumors in the media about the - Republicans have vowed California marketplace. Visit: and middle class in San Francisco and give us a fighting chance to succeed, an investment in education is an next administration’s intent but to repeal the law. This is true. www.CCHPHealthPlan.com. investment in all our futures,” said Supervisor Kim. With the 9 to 1 vote, the measure is veto-proof and the funds are to be secured for the purpose desig- nated by the Board. However, the Mayor can still choose to ignore the wishes of San Francisco voters and the Board of Supervisors and refuse to actually spend the appropriated funds. The second and final vote on the supplemental is scheduled for January 10, 2016. B4 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 legal & law Is my Social Security income Practical tips: Know your rights under a Trump presidency protected if I file bankruptcy? MIAMI- Donald J. Trump’s campaign often a misunderstanding in the community. Question: How could I determine which vows to detain and deport “anyone who il- They may be able to fill out documents or ATTY. CRISPIN exemptions apply to protect my assets? legally crosses the border” and revoke DACA, apply for things, which when combined with CADAY LOZANO Answer: To determine which exemptions the Obama administration’s Deferred Action legal advice is the unauthorized practice apply to your property it is best to consult a for Childhood Arrivals policy, have sown fear of law. We see huge consequences of that: If you file for bankruptcy attorney because there are legal among the 11 million immigrants who reside people applying for relief for which they may Chapter 7 bankruptcy, complications involved. in the U.S. without official authorization. not be eligible, applications being submitted your ongoing social Question: What are exempt and non- Americans for Immigrant Justice, a nonprofit that may not be accurate. These are all things security income is exempt properties? advocacy group, has been at the forefront that potentially put people on the radar, exempt, which means Answer: Exempt property is property of providing legal services to immigrants in potentially causing more harm than good, you keep them. Social that someone can keep if he filed for bank- Florida and beyond for two decades. I recently and in extreme cases creating permanent security payments you ruptcy. Non-exempt property is what can be spoke with Adonia R. Simpson, supervising bars to immigration relief. One thing we deal received before you file for bankruptcy are seized and sold by creditors or the bankruptcy attorney of AIJ’s Children’s Legal Program, to with in the immigration services community also exempt, with one important exception. trustee to pay debts that are owed by the per- learn more about what her group has ob- is often times trying to remedy mistakes that If you comingled (mixed) the social security son filing bankruptcy. served since Trump was elected. have been made in the past. So number one money with other money, you may lose the Question: Can I give up or surrender my How have your clients reacted to the is not to go to a notario. Immigration law is exemption. house and car in bankruptcy if I don’t want to results of the election? extremely complex, so they really want to go Income from the Social Security is keep it? There are a lot of people in the com- to an attorney who has experience and knowl- protected and is not included in the Means Answer: You can surrender your house munity who are very afraid of how this could edge in working in this area of the law. Test calculation to qualify for bankruptcy. and car in either a Chapter 7 bankruptcy or impact them. We’ve seen a huge uptick in the What rights do immigrants who lack The Ninth Circuit held that “Congress’s Chapter 13 bankruptcy if you can no longer number of calls (from immigrants) wanting to documentation have? adoption of the BAPCPA forecloses a court’s afford to make payments. If you are in a know what they should do. You still have rights under the Constitu- consideration of a debtor’s Social Security Chapter 13 bankruptcy, surrendering your What advice are you giving your cli- tion. You still have the right to remain silent, income or a debtor’s payments to secured house and car will not automatically lower ents? the right to speak to an attorney, and the right creditors as part of the inquiry into good faith your Chapter 13 bankruptcy payments. You We’re hoping for the best but we want to refuse to sign or show documents until you under 11 U.S.C. § 1325(a).” Drummond v. should contact your attorney to discuss what people to prepare for the worst. That means speak to an attorney. Welsh (In re Welsh), No. 12-60009 (9th Cir. options are available to you. making sure that they have plans, mak- You still have fourth amendment rights. March 25, 2013). Thus, the court in Suttice Note: This is not a legal advice. Our Law ing sure people are aware where important If somebody comes to your home, you do not was “persuaded that Congress intended social Firm has successfully helped clients in filing documentation is – birth certificates, mar- have to let them in without a warrant. Those security benefits to be protected from inclu- for bankruptcy for the last 15 years. riage certificates, tax returns, evidence of their rights change drastically when you’re on the sion in a § 707(b) (3) (B) analysis, based upon Bankruptcy Basics presence here in the United States. Docu- street or in the workplace but despite lacking § 407(a) of the Social Security Act and as 1. Bankruptcy will actually improve your mentation of one’s life here, letters of support citizenship, constitutional rights still attach. shown by the Debtors’ social security income credit within one year because your unse- documenting that they’re a person of good If somebody has an order of removal, being definitively excluded from the means cured debts are discharged. Although the moral character. All these things might be they may be arrested, detained and removed test of § 707(b) (2).” Therefore, while the bankruptcy will be in your records for 10 very important in getting somebody released from the United States, meaning that repre- means test was not found to have supplanted years, not filing bankruptcy will make your from detention or perhaps applying for some sentatives must work quickly. If somebody the totality of circumstance test, social secu- credit even worse until most your debts are sort of relief. doesn’t have an order of removal they may rity income could not be considered under the paid. If they have children, they should make be arrested and detained, but they may have analysis. 2. If you are being sued by your creditors, sure they’ve talked to family members about a right to have an administrative hearing to what happens should they be detained. They apply for relief from removal. The same exists Question: How much property can I keep most money judgment can be eliminated in should identify trusted individuals who may for people who may be lawful permanent resi- if I file bankruptcy? bankruptcy. be able to take care of family members, make dents who have status here and who are being Answer: Most personal properties are 3. Collection actions continue and you sure that they have emergency contact phone charged for being removable for some sort of exempt from being taken by the creditors if can be sued if you are in debt settlement. numbers available. Often times we’ve even offense. They have an ability to seek a hear- you file bankruptcy. This includes retirement 4. Chapter 7 will eliminate all unsecured had people apply for powers of attorney not ing in front of an immigration judge. It varies. accounts and social security income. debts. If you are near retirement age, you just for their children, but for their resources Some people might be very quickly removed, If you are filing Chapter 13 bank- must eliminate most of your debts. and assets, so that they have somebody to other people might have the opportunity to ruptcy, you keep everything because you 5. Bankruptcy will stop foreclosure ac- step in and be able to pay rent, sell vehicles, have a hearing. are repaying your debts. This includes your tions. If your trustee sale date is 10 days do all the things that might be necessary in Would deportations on the scale Trump house and vehicle if you can keep up with the before, you can still file for bankruptcy. a circumstance where things move quickly. described even be feasible? payments. In a Chapter 7 bankruptcy, most 6. If your salary is being garnished, you That’s the main thing as far as preparing. On the government side alone, it would of your assets may be protected through the have a court case about debts or you are being Is there any advice in particular for require a huge increase in resources. Right California bankruptcy exemptions. harassed by creditors, bankruptcy can stop young people who have DACA? now there’s a huge backlog in the immigration Question: What would happen to my per- garnishment, court cases, harassing creditors The above advice, but also really urg- courts. These actions would require hiring a sonal property during bankruptcy process? and eliminate the debt. ing them to seek advice from a legal profes- lot more immigration judges. (The govern- Answer: Most personal property such as 7. Bankruptcy is cheaper, faster and safer sional with experience in immigration law, to ment) would need to increase ICE (Immigra- cash, bank accounts, furniture, clothes, and than debt settlement which has no guaran- provide them with information about whether tion and Customs Enforcement) officers to retirement plans can be protected by exemp- teed success. they would be eligible for another type of make apprehensions, to increase customs and tions allowed by each state. Most people that 8. Preserve your health, eliminate stress relief. It’s important to make sure these kids border protection officers for the border, also file bankruptcy are allowed to keep most, if and live a happy life by eliminating your debts are screened to see if may they be eligible for to increase ICE attorneys - the attorneys dur- not all, of their personal property. which is the root of all problems. something else, to explore all avenues. ing hearings that represent the government. Question: What would happen to my Crispin Caday Lozano is an active mem- There are other types of humanitarian re- It’s very early on. We hope that the new retirement account if I file bankruptcy? ber of the State Bar of California, the Ameri- lief that are available. For example, there’s the administration keeps in mind humanitarian Answer: Most legitimate retirement can Immigration Lawyers Association and the U visa which is for victims of crime, there’s a and family concerns particularly with refer- accounts are protected from your creditors. National Association of Consumers Bankrupt- T visa which is for victims of human traffick- ence to the Deferred Action for Childhood Usually, the retirement account must be an cy Attorneys. He specializes in immigration ing. On occasion, they may have a U.S. citizen Arrival young people, because many have IRA or an ERISA qualified retirement plan. law and bankruptcy law. He earned his Juris family member who may be able to petition been here their whole lives. This is all they Question: What if I have a property that Doctor at Western State University College for them. know. Many DACA youth have gone on to is above the State exemptions? of Law in Fullerton, California. He is also Do immigrants with a permanent resi- do really amazing things. Through the abil- Answer: If you have non-exempt property a Certified Public Accountant, and a Bach- dency visa need to be concerned? ity to come out of the shadows they’ve been and you don’t want to lose it, you may have elor of Business Administration Cum Laude One of the things we’re communicating able to get work authorization, go to college, to give to the Trustee the cash value of that graduate. He has offices in San Francisco, is if people have had any interaction with be really amazing contributing members of property in a Chapter 7 case. If you file Chap- Hayward, San Jose, and Cerritos, California. law enforcement to seek counsel, to see what society. We’ve seen DACA kids go into the ter 13 you can keep it as long as you will pay You can contact him at 1-877-456-9266. Email kinds of consequences it could have. military. This is their country and this is their the creditors the proposed monthly payment questions to [email protected]. Visit our Can you offer any advice about choos- home. Often times, removing young people in that is confirmed by the court. website at www.crispinlozanolaw.com. ing an immigration lawyer? this situation to a country they haven’t been One of the big things we want to advise to since they were infants could be a death the community is to warn them about notario sentence. So we really hope that the humani- Call us to fraud. In many Latin American countries, no- tarian concerns that have been huge tenets visit tarios are attorneys. Here in the United States in immigration law for our country for many advertise to become a notary public you don’t need to years will remain a consideration. We’re try- www.filamstar.com be an attorney. So often times in communi- ing to remain very positive. But with that said, 1-650-278-0692 ties, you see notarios publicos - somebody we do want people to be prepared. (NAM) who can do notary services – (but) there’s Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star B5 health & Health@Heart Appetite regulators lifestyle

PHILIP S. CHUA, rice addict), I had decided to give it up following all The light from your gadgets MD, FACS, FPCS the convincing scientific evidence today of its link to diabetes. Could this be the reason why the incidence could ruin your eyes In this day and age of of diabetes is very high among Asians, especially Like many people, you probably go through tive, and over time can lead to eye diseases. health consciousness and among Filipinos? The research on this is still in your e-mail and social media accounts even before “It’s harder now to maintain 20/20 vision, es- the appreciation of the progress. you get out of bed. Then you head off to the office, pecially with kids—yaya na ’yung gadgets,” Azarcon value and role of weight How about emotional stress? where you’ll be working with a computer for the rest pointed out. “Our eyes are not designed for menial on longevity, interest in When one is high on stress and low on energy, of the day. work. We used to be hunters, looking out in the weight control and dieting the body tries to compensate by producing more In between, you check your mobile phone for distance. Now we are exposed to shorter, stronger is greater than ever, espe- cortisol hormone. This substance mobilizes the messages, and also sneak in considerable time for waves of light.” cially during the holiday blood sugar transformation (glycogen into glucose) Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. Children these days are susceptible to blue seasons. This leads to the and increases the blood sugar level to provide We live in a world that’s constantly hungry for light as they are more exposed to computers every question as to what controls our appetite. energy. But it makes the person hungry. And so the anything new, a world where staying on top of things day, even in schools. Most have access to their own What triggers hunger and satiety? person eats more. The connection between cortisol means checking our social media accounts every few mobile devices, like cell phones, laptops and tablets. The urge to eat (hungry or not) is, to a large extent, level and obesity is not a settled question yet. Physi- minutes—a world where distancing ourselves from Even more dangerous is that children’s eyes are still controlled by hormones in our body. And these cal stress, like regimented physical exercises daily, is our gadgets even for just a day has become unthink- developing, Azarcon noted. hormones fluctuate depending on how much sleep another story. This has a positive effect on our body able. “That’s why it’s important to also have chil- we get, what types of food we eat and how much in more ways than one. While it also raises the cor- It’s not that these gadgets are bad for our dren’s eyes screened, even babies,” said Azarcon. calories we take in, and on how much physical tisol level and increases blood sugar, exercise burns health; it’s the prolonged exposure to their blue light “Even if they can’t read yet, doctors have special activities we indulge in daily. Scientific researchers calories and also helps put our body hormones in that’s causing digital eyestrain. tools and procedures. If you are able to catch the are focusing on four specific substances they call good balance. As a matter of fact those who do daily Blue light is a harmful shortwave light, since it problem at a young age, then there’s a big chance “fat hormones,” which our own endocrine glands in exercises have lower risk of developing heart attack, is the highest energy wavelength of visible light. It’s you can get the maximum potential vision of the the body produce. There are hormones that make stroke, diabetes, and cancer. What is Obsetatin? everywhere; the sun itself emits blue light. That’s patient.” one eat and there are also hormones that signal the why the sky and oceans are blue. Critical stage brain to tell the person to stop eating. These sub- This is a hormone recently identified by researchers at Stanford. This substance has been But it can also be manmade, such as the light in If treated correctly, from birth to development stances control hunger and satiety. our gadgets, TV, fluorescent and LED lights. of the eye, a young child’s eye problem will not Which is the “hunger hormone”? shown to slow down the digestive process. While the studies on Obsetatin are still ongoing, it is postu- While the amount of blue light emitted by this worsen. This is a critical stage, said Azarcon. The hunger hormone is Ghrelin, which is manmade technology is only a fraction of what “Remember that glasses are not medicines, that secreted by our guts (stomach and intestines). When lated that this hormone, like the first three above, could be held in check by adequate sleep, balanced the sun emits, people spend more time with their if you use them your eyes will get cured,” she said. its level goes up, we feel hungry and have the urge gadgets now more than ever, so that means greater “If you want your eyes cured, go to an eye laser sur- diet, physical exercise and minimizing stress. to eat. The level of Ghrelin goes up when we get less exposure to the blue light. The proximity of the geon. But eyeglasses are here to help you see clearer. Are Appetite Suppressants Safe? sleep or not enough sleep. This is the reason why screens to the eyes is a cause of concern for many There’s no such thing as correctional glasses. They Most appetite control pills, juices, solutions those who are trying to lose weight should get ad- eye doctors. correct it, in a sense that you are able to see clearly and powders on the market are not physiological equate amount (about 8 hours) of sleep. An imbal- 40 times a day when you wear it, but the minute you take it off, you and unnatural way to suppress (by force) the appe- ance meal and stress also elevate the Ghrelin level. According to a report from Informate Mobile still have an eye problem.” tite for weight control. While they are readily avail- Food deprivation obviously increases the Ghrelin Intelligence, Americans check their gadgets at least One of the best ways to protect the eyes from able and very popular, they have potential adverse level, hence it is better to keep the level of this hor- 17 times a day, while in other parts of the world, blue light is by wearing glasses that protect the eyes side effects on the heart, liver, kidneys and brain in mone on an even keel and not fluctuate too much by such as Thailand, Malaysia, Qatar, Argentina, Mexi- from harmful wavelengths. These are state-of-the- the long haul. Some serious complications, and even eating regularly (or even more than 3 times a day) co and South Africa, people check these networking art, slightly tinted eyeglasses designed to shield the deaths, have been reported from the use of these but at a controlled total calorie ceiling, to maintain apps a staggering 40 times a day. eyes from the blue light. At Owndays, they call it the diet substances. Since greater calorie intake than health and body weight. So, starving oneself is not “Prolonged exposure, such as whole-day use, PC glasses or Blue Shield. output is the cause of increase in body weight, the a good way to lose weight, since this will lead to a can cause eye strain, dry eyes, headaches, dizziness, “The blurring of vision depends on the activi- safest, most natural, strategy is to eat less and burn Ghrelin “boomerang” in the latter part of the day. neck pain and blurring of vision,” said Dr. Aileen ty—in this case, too much computer work. There’s more calories with physical exercises, making the Which is the “satiety hormone”? J. Azarcon, optometrist and technical manager at really just too much exposure to blue light today that output of calories (energy) greater than the intake The opposite or counter-hormone, which is Owndays Phils. “Based on studies, blue light can young children and adults need to protect their eyes of calories (food). The use of appetite suppressants called Leptin, signals the brain when to stop eating. damage the back part of the eye, which is the retina.” if they want to avoid certain eye diseases as they could be dangerous. Consult with your physician It controls the appetite. This “satiety hormone” is The retina is a highly sensitive, thin layer of age,” she said. before using any of them. produced by fat cells in the body. When a person tissue at the back of the eye. Its purpose is to receive PC lenses cut out approximately 45 percent of The main objective of this column is to educate loses weight, the leptin level in the blood stream also light that the lens has focused, convert light into the blue light. They are lenses with no grades, she and inspire people, especially parents, whose goes down. As a result, there is a “rebound” weight neural signals, and send these signals to the brain said, but can also be custom-fitted specific to your way of life inevitably impacts the health of their gain. The best strategy in losing and maintaining a for visual recognition. eyes’ needs. children, to live a healthy lifestyle to prevent ill- desired weight level is to lose in a slow and steady The eye, said Azarcon, is like a camera. The lens “We have 1,500 styles to choose from, and we nesses and disabilities, and achieve a happier and pace, about one to two pounds a week, and not inside the eye has an autofocus activity; it zooms in also have new styles every three weeks—from basic more productive life for themselves and for their more. In this manner, there will still be an effective and out to see things clearly. to functional to fashionable,” said Michaela Cabrera, offspring. My articles are general medical informa- level of leptin in the body to control the urge to eat. “If you look from afar, your eyes are relaxed; if marketing officer at Owndays. tion for the public and not intended to be applicable What’s the effect of imbalance meals? you read or see objects closer to the eye it needs to Owndays follows a simple pricing method. The to, or appropriate for, anyone. The data, statistics, High carbohydrate diet (rice, bread, sugar, zoom in to make it clearer. The constant zooming Japan-technology glasses, including ultra-thin mul- pop drinks, ice cream, and other sweets) leads to and personal commentaries presented here are not in and out will make your eyes blurry. Like flex- ticoated aspherical lenses and frames, can be had a faster metabolism of these food items that have a substitute for, or inferred to be superior to, the ing muscles, the eye is always contracted. This can anywhere from P2,990 to P5,990. Price depends on high glycemic indices and floods the blood stream professional opinion and recommendation of your elongate the eyeball and cause nearsightedness,” the frame one chooses. with high glucose level. This is why those who eat a physician, who knows your total condition well and explained Azarcon. “We encourage people to buy many pairs. If you lot of these food items (rice is a great culprit!) are who is your best ally when it comes to your health. The quickest way to ease eye strain is by blink- have many pairs of shoes, from sports to party to feared to have a higher risk of developing type 2 (Visit philipSchua.com / Email: scalpelpen@gmail. ing. Azarcon also said to follow the 20-20-20 rule: work, then you should have different glasses to suit diabetes. Personally, much as I loved rice (a 3-meal com) after spending 20 minutes working on the computer, your activities or mood. Glasses, after all, are the look away at a distance of 20 feet for 20 seconds. first thing people notice when they see you. Filipinos While all these are helpful to keep the eyes should learn to invest in their eyes,” Azarcon said. HOROSCOPE healthy, the negative effects of blue light are cumula- (Anne A. Jambora / inquirer.net) http://www.starlightastrology.com Answers to LAST WEEK’S Krosword Libra Be a part of our (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Aries You can clear up important legalities and sign community ! (Mar. 21- April 20) contracts this week. Sudden disruptions will Don’t get intimately involved with a coworker. cause upset and a change of routine in your Call us at Put your energy into home renovations. Take home environment. You will have a tendency to time to deal with the concerns of children. put on pounds. Visit friends who have not been Concentrate on getting ahead financially and let well. 650-278-0692 your personal life settle down for a while. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. so we can Scorpio Taurus (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) cover your events (Apr. 21- may 21) Romance will come through involvement with A friendship might suffer if money becomes fundraising organizations. Take the time to close or visit an issue. You should be promoting your ideas. deals that have been up in the air. You may find it You will get bored quickly, so make sure that difficult to communicate with someone at work. you have scheduled enough activity to hold your You can make moves, but they won’t be settling. www.filamstar.com interest. Do not overspend on entertainment. Your lucky day this week will be Monday. Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. Sagittarius Gemini (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) KrosWord (May 22-June 21) Your talents might just be discovered. (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo) You can look around for the right place and Opportunities to show your worth will enhance enlist some of your friends to help you move. your reputation and bring possible advancement. Romance and social activity will be a promising You may find your self a bit frazzled if you allow PAHALANG combination. You can ask for favors but don’t someone to goad you into an unsavory debate. 1 Natalisod take them for granted. Don’t allow your personal You must be sure not to be frivolous, because as 6 Yugyog problems to interfere with your professionalism. the saying goes, easy come, easy go. 9 Pangaral Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. 10 Libang Cancer Capricorn 11 Tong (June 22-July 22) (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 12 Kutya Compromise if you wish to have any fun Opportunities for love will develop while 14 ___Man at all. Don’t let your lover put demands on traveling or while attending religious functions. 15 Lalaban you. Pleasure trips will promote new romantic Sports, physical fitness programs, exercise in 16 Brand ng infant formula encounters. Communication will be your strong general will make you feel better and show some 17 Paghinto sa pag-iyak point and you should be able to persuade others pretty quick results. You’ll be tempted to spend 18 Talim to see things your way. extravagantly this week. You should check out Your lucky day this week will be Friday. prestigious clubs or groups that have a cause 19 Param you believe in. 20 Klase Leo Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. 22 Tinanggal (July 23-Aug 22) 24 Bansa sa Gitnang Silangan Pleasure trips will promote new romantic Aquarius 25 Talas encounters. this week will be rather hectic on the (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 26 Ilapat domestic scene. Others may want to steal your Try spending the day catching up on any 27 Uri ng saging thunder when they realize your ideas are pretty responsibilities that need to be taken care of. If 28 Sawsawang kulay itim solid. Beware of someone who is trying to make your lover tries to curtail your freedom, it may you look bad. lead to conflict. You will have opportunities to 29 Ligaya Your lucky day this week will be Monday. advance, but you may have to be willing to make 30 Mr. Agbayani some changes and possibly a residential move. Virgo Try and avoid getting involved in idle chatter or (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) gossip that might get you in trouble. PABABA You must use discretion when talking to Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. others. Gambling should not be an option. You 2 Pagmamadali 13 Cafeteria sa Pinoy 26 Baluga will have the ability to capture the interest of Pisces 3 Pahina ng babasahin 15 Kopa others. Ask others to help, or you may feel that (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 4 Pagpayag 17 Pagsunod sa utos a burden is weighing you down. Don’t draw too Pushy people must be kept at arm’s length. 5 Singer na Toledo 18 Tanod much attention to yourself at work. Extravagance will be a problem. Get help to 6 Ilagay sa ligtas na lugar 19 Tanim sa bukid Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. finish a project if you need it. You will find 7 Palya 20 Umaliwalas that unfinished projects at home will be most 8 Ilag 21 Basketbolistang Fernandez Answers to this week’s satisfying. Krosword on NEXT WEEK’S Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. 10 Hiyas sa katawan 23 Pita 11 Maliit ang mata 24 Luto sa hipon at toge issue B6 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 travel and culinary Thai food is ‘hot’ for foodists and entrepreneurs

Thailand’s abundant natu- ments in the world, estimated southern border provinces food industry value chain at an the opportunities that exist in of tax and non-tax incentives for ral resources provide the coun- to be worth around THB 81.0 comprising of Satun, Songkhla, international level, and create a Thailand’s food start-up space. projects in the food and agricul- try with a clear comparative ad- trillion (USD 2.3 trillion), ac- Yala, Pattani, and Narathiwat perfect atmosphere to support With Thai’s lifestyles becoming ture industry that meet national vantage in the food processing cording to Thailand’s National are being developed as major an innovation ecosystem. The more westernized, there is great development objectives. industry; 80 percent of the raw Food Institute (NFI). With an production bases for halal prod- research complex will not only demand for time-saving and Tax-based incentives in- materials used in domestic food annual growth rate of 20 per- ucts in Asia, linking Thailand serve as a knowledge base but health-conscious food options clude the exemption of corpo- manufacturing are locally avail- cent, this industry is no longer with other Muslim countries in is also expected to reform Thai- that enterprising investors can rate income tax for up to eight able. The use of these rich and restricted to simply food and the ASEAN region. land’s production infrastructure address. years, with an additional 50 per- pure natural resources, which food-related products, and has Seasonings and Ingredients for sustainability and upgrade Other excellent investment cent reduction for five years and has been optimized through expanded to include chemicals, Seasonings and ingredients the country’s food production prospects exist in the following the exemption of import duty on the introduction of technology household goods, cosmetics, are key components that greatly standards. areas: machinery. Non-tax incentives and vigorous implementation of garments, medical supplies and affect the food industry, and • Thai Union to invest - Plant propagation and include the permission to own international standards of food tourism-related businesses such combining these with Thailand’s THB 1.1 billion in Research Fa- development land and facilitation on visas safety and hygiene, will help as hotels, hospitals, and spas. advantage in food processing cilities - The Thai Union Group, - Deep sea fishery and work permits. Thailand remain a world leader Currently, the world’s popula- has brought the country to glob- the world’s largest processor of - Manufacture of products Projects in the grading, in the food processing industry. tion of Muslims is estimated at al prominence for better prod- shelf-stable tuna, plans to invest from herbs packaging and storage of fruits, To keep up with the chang- 1,700 million and this figure is ucts. The abundant supply of at least THB 1.1 billion (USD - Hydroponics cultivation vegetables, plants or flowers ing of tastes in their overseas expected to increase to 2,800 raw materials for seasoning and 31.2 million) over the next three - Slaughtering and the manufacture of medi- markets, Thai food processors million in 2050. With over THB ingredients production coupled years to expand research facili- - Manufacture of natural cal food and supplements are are successfully developing new 5.8 trillion (USD 164 billion) with the potential for develop- ties and develop value-added rubber products granted an eight-year corpo- frozen food products. In 2013, of global halal food imports, ment local skills to manufacture products. The firm has set aside - Forestry plantation rate income tax exemption, an Thailand exported 432,515 tons according to the Organization of specialty food products, such as THB 600 million (USD 17.0 mil- - Tanneries, leather finish- exemption on import duty on of ready-to-eat (RTE) food and Islamic Cooperation, and more specific seasonings, make the lion) on expanding its current ing, or fur dressing machinery and raw or essential food ingredients. The value than half of the world’s Muslim country an appealing destina- R&D facility during 2015- 2017 - Manufacture of products materials used in manufactur- of RTE and food ingredient population living in South Asia tion for investments in this and THB 500 million (USD 14.2 from agricultural by-products ing export products, as well as exports in 2013 was US$1.02 and the Asia-Pacific region, sub-sector. million) on building another or waste non-tax incentives. billion – a 6 percent increase Thailand’s dynamic halal indus- Recent News Bites center at a new location in 2017. - Manufacture of biological Projects in the manufac- from the previous year. Demand try is well positioned to serve • Thailand Implements Thai Union is one of leading fertilizers, organic fertilizers or ture or preservation of food, for Thai RTE food continues to this rising market segment. Significant Research Reforms Thai food companies to join the soil conditioner beverages, food additives or grow overseas as other coun- Thailand currently ranks - The Thai government is tak- government’s Food Innopolis - Manufacture or preserva- food ingredients using modern tries and cultures grow more 13th among the world’s largest ing major steps to reform the project. tion of food or food ingredients, technology (except for drinking and more accustomed to Thai halal producers. According to nation’s entire research system Opportunities for Food using modern technology water, ice cream candy, choco- quality, nutrition, and taste. Of the NFI, halal food exports are beginning with the establish- Tech companies - Manufacture of alcohol or late, gum, sugar carbonated soft the many export markets, the currently valued at about THB ment of a National Research Thailand offers tremendous fuel from agricultural products, drinks, alcoholic beverages, caf- main export markets currently 200 billion (USD 5.7 billion). and Innovation System Policy opportunities for food process- including scrap, garbage and/ feinated beverages and flour or include Japan, the Philippines, In addition, the country is well Committee to supervise the ing and food tech companies, or waste starch made from plants, bakery Cambodia, and the U.S. established as a Halal Center of country’s policy on research and particularly with regards to - Animal breeding or Ani- products, instant noodles, Although most processed Excellence in science and test- innovation. The framework for ready-to-eat packaged food, mal husbandry essence of chicken and bird’s food products target the ing with several leading organi- the reform is being worked out snacks, health food, and food - Manufacture of oil or fat nests), projects for deep sea international market, domes- zations paving the way, such as in a 20-year national research machinery and equipment. from plants or animals fisheries, and trading centers for tic consumption continues to the Halal Standard Institute of strategy (2017-2036) and will Food demand in South and - Cold storage and cold agricultural goods, are granted grow due to lifestyle changes Thailand and the Halal Science involve direction setting, budget Southeast Asia will continue storage transportation a five-year corporate income that have resulted in increased Center. For the fiscal year 2016, allocation, the creation of lo- to grow as populations and - Manufacture of animal tax holiday, exemptions of demand for greater convenience the Department of Industrial cal and international research incomes expand throughout the feed or mixes for animal feed import duty on machinery and concerning food. Processed food Promotion has highlighted the networks, human resource and regions. - Manufacture of flour or import duty on raw or essential products are available in a wide government’s plan to allocate infrastructure development, Food Tech businesses starch made from plants, dex- materials used in manufactur- variety of local retail outlets, THB 403.8 million (USD 11.5 and the revision of related laws that utilize on-line channels trin or modified starch ing export products, as well as most notably major Thai super- million) to various organiza- and regulations, as well as to deliver organic foods, foods - Trading centers for agri- non-tax incentives. markets such as Tesco Lotus, tions in Thailand to carry out the registration of intellectual directly from farms, groceries, culture goods In addition, projects in crop Makro, Gourmet Market, Big C, projects to develop and enhance property. The Food Innopo- and cooked or calorie-conscious - Crop drying and silo drying and silo facilities, as well Foodland, and Tops. the potential of Thailand’s halal lis project launched this year meals, are enjoying great facilities as cold storage or cold storage According to the National business even further. is a significant example. The popularity. There is a need for - Grading, packaging and and cold storage transportation Food Institute, the Thai food The Thai government has government has set aside 283.8 logistics companies that provide storage of plants, vegetables, receive exemptions of import processing industry currently formulated a 5-year plan (2016- million USD to fund a center at reliable, economical and timely fruits or flowers, using modern duty on machinery and im- comprises more than 9,000 2020) to position Thailand as the Thailand Science Park (TSP) delivery services. Secure finan- technology port duty on raw or essential processed food factories. Major one of the top five exporters to provide a one-stop solution cial platforms are also needed to - Farm management materials used in manufactur- Thai and multinational industry of halal products and services for Research, Development and address the increasing number Attractive Investment ing export products, as well as leaders include: Ajinomoto, Be- in the world. Halal industrial Innovation (RD&I) services to of food-related transactions Incentives non-tax incentives. tagro, Charoen Pokhand Group, development is being acceler- food investors. Through this conducted online. All these Thailand Board of Invest- Del Monte, Dole Thailand, ated which includes obtaining Food Innopolis, food companies represent just a fraction of ment (BOI) offers a wide range Kellogg’s, Kraft, Nestle, Patum halal certification for more will be able to access 3,000 Rice Mill & Granary, PepsiCo, Thai products and services, and researchers, 10,000 students in Procter & Gamble, Royal Frie- strengthening the industry with Food Science and Technology, ‘Noche buena,’ chef Jessie style sland Foods NV, Saha Farms, more R&D. The plan is to export 9,000 food factories, 150 food Chef Jessie Sincioco’s Christ- we removed all the other food on strate how to do noche buena, chef future Halal products under the research laboratories, 20 pilot Saha Pathana Inter Holdings, mas creations forMaya Kitchen the table and ate only the lechon. Jessie-style—with a home cook’s Thai Beverage, Thai Union, and unique brand name of Thailand plants, and 70 universities. The Culinary Elite Series The crispy skin was gone within budget. Unilever Group. Diamond Halal. goal is to link private sectors at Jessie Sincioco’s food should minutes,” Sincioco said. “Masarap! At the Maya Kitchen Culinary Halal: A fast growing sector To further position Thai- all levels, ranging from start-ups make any noche buena brighter. But It’s a little gamy and not so fatty, Elite Series featuring “Chef Jes- The global halal industry is land as a halal food hub and and SMEs to large companies, she doesn’t cook on Christmas Day; hindi nakakasawa. My uncle sources sie’s Christmas Table,” she made one of the fastest growing seg- a center for halal tourism, the to effectively take part in the her family does it for her. it from the mountainside, cleans it Smoked Milkfish and Bihod Pie with “My Auntie Lita makes pork thoroughly and seasons it.” Croutons, a recreation of her popu- barbecue,” said Sincioco, “and we For dessert, they have buko lar Smoked Salmon Caviar Pie—a eat it while waiting for the Panawa- fruit salad and chocolate bundt cake pot-luck favorite. gan, which is a tradition in Angat, with fudge, cherry and walnuts— “Smoked salmon gets expen- Bulacan, where the townsfolk comforting flavors of home that sive around Christmas, so I made narrate the Christmas story through Sincioco grew up with before work- this one with tinapang bangus,” balagtasan. It is divided into four ing as pastry chef in the ’80s. Sincioco said. “It has bihod, a caviar chapters, and it starts in church at Her big break was winning the alternative.” midnight, passing by four houses grand prize in the baking category She also did Cochinillo Stuffed along the way. of the Great Maya Cookfest in 1983. with Atchara Rice, a crowd pleaser. Sincioco’s house is the last She then went on to create her own The sweet-tangy atchara rice bal- stop, and by 4 a.m., the family hearty dishes such as Roast Suck- ances the richness of the roast pork. would have finished numerous ling Pig, Roast Turkey, Wild Rice Her Kinulob na Manok is sticks of pork barbecue. Risotto, and Pasta à la Chef Jessie a stew with chicken and chorizo “For noche buena,” she with scallops, shrimps, mushrooms inspired by fashion designer Patis pointed out, “we always have baked and sun-dried tomatoes. Tesoro; it is great for chilly Christ- macaroni, roast chicken, halabos na All of these are served in her mas nights. hipon, queso de bola and castañas.” Makati restaurants, Top of the Citi Her other dishes are Mesclun She used to serve her trade- by Chef Jessie and Chef Jessie Rock- of Local Greens with Marigold and mark Alugbati and Micro Aru- well Club, and through her catering Crispy Coconut Flakes in Coco- gula Salad with crispy danggit in company, JCS Gastronomies Inc. Balsamic Vinaigrette Dressing, tamarind dressing, but her cousins She is also known for her glori- Tiger Prawns with Laing, and Dark prefer Caesar salad. What the entire ous French soufflés. And for being Chocolate Fudge Orange Cupcake family loves, though, is the wild Pope Francis’ chef during his 2015 made with Cacao de Bola. (inquirer. boar lechon that her uncle roasts for Manila visit. net) Christmas lunch. For the holidays, Sincioco goes “The first time we had it, back to Maya Kitchen to demon-

DEBATE WITH DUTERTE “jumped to conclusions” and Special Rapporteurs.” ... FROM PAGE A1 rendered a judgment on the Callamard asked for free, situation in the country, he said. confidential and unsupervised mary executions debate with “They based their arbitrary interviews with victims, their President Duterte or there will decision on media reports,” he families, legal representatives, be no UN investigation of extra- added. detainees and civil society rep- judicial killings in the Philip- This is why the President resentatives. pine war on drugs, according said that if UN officials wanted She also sought unre- to Foreign Secretary Perfecto to come to the Philippines, they stricted access to all regions Yasay Jr. may do so, but on his terms, and places of detention and “If they will not comply Yasay said. facilities. with the conditions of the Presi- Should the debate push She also said that as per the dent for their visit to the Philip- through, Callamard would be terms of reference, she would pines to validate the claims, under oath and Mr. Duterte hold a high-level debriefing then the trip would not push would ask questions on the with the government to discuss through, they will not be able to “authenticity” of the results of her preliminary findings and come here,” Yasay told report- her inquiry, he said. present her end of mission ers here on Tuesday night. Callamard’s conditions statement. Yasay pointed out that the Mr. Duterte earlier lashed Callamard would also hold proposed visit of UN special out at the United Nations for a press conference to present rapporteur Agnes Callamard expressing concern about the her initial observations. was upon the invitation of the rising body count in his war on According to her briefing Philippine government, which illegal drugs. note, Callamard’s visit will be a was subject to conditions. Callamard, who has re- fact-finding mission, not a crim- The United Nations did not ceived the government’s invita- inal or judicial proceeding. follow the regular procedure, tion, set her own conditions for The general purpose of her which was to ask the govern- her visit. visit is to “examine the level of ment if they could come to the She earlier said she was protection of the right to life country to be able to investigate committed to visiting the coun- in law and in practice” in the the alleged extrajudicial killings try in 2017 “in full accordance Philippines. of drug suspects, he said. with the Terms of Reference Instead, UN officials for Fact-Finding Missions by Dec. 15 - 21, 2016 FilAm Star B7 entertainment Why the sudden burst of emotions What makes husbands stray? in Sarah Geronimo’s intimate show Just two songs into “Un- down that path. list that wasn’t Sarah’s. Gabby has the answer plugged,” her recent show at the “Tonight is very special Because the audience was stray? A series of events that Kia Theatre that was meant to because it’s my first time to do a composed mostly of her ardent creates the kind of environ- promote her 12th album, “The show that features all the songs fans, Sarah carried no burden of ment that would make hus- Great Unknown,” Sarah Geroni- from my latest album. I have having to worry about whether or bands look elsewhere. Lack mo turned weepy, and eventually, always wanted to do something not her performances were enjoy- of spark. Communication buried her face in a sheet of tissue like this, because each song has a able enough. as her fans chanted her name. story to tell,” she said. And it was apparent in the breakdown. Because she has always It was a relaxed and intimate freedom with which she tackled What do you think of been resolute about keeping her affair, with barely any costume her songs. Sarah was emotionally KC’s boyfriend, Aly Bor- personal life private, it could changes or stage fripperies. The connected and was spontane- romeo? He’s a gentleman, sometimes be easy to overanalyze repertoire was presented with de- ous, taking liberties with how she and they are well-suited for the littlest of things she does in lightfully stripped down arrange- played around with the melodies each other. I like him for KC. public—the sudden bursts of emo- ments. And for the most part, and dispensed ad libs. Based on our conversation tions, even the songs she chooses Sarah simply remained seated She wasn’t merely perform- and on what I see, he only to do in her shows. But this time, on a stool, as she ticked off just ing—she was feeling the music. has good intentions. I have the tears were prompted by noth- about every track on “The Great This was especially true in her nothing but good words for Gabby Concepcion him. (Photo: www.enchos.com) Which movie of yours Gabby Concepcion does tackles love in all its forms, with Sharon Cuneta would not seem to age at all. I’ve including extramarital affairs. you want to do a sequel of? known Gab since my high How’s that for some afternoon “Una Kang Naging Akin,” our school days. Not only has he delight? 1991 film with Dawn Zulueta. maintained his looks, he has Here’s my chat with What’s your favorite also remained down-to-earth. Gabby:What are your thoughts Christmas memory? I always The ’80s heartthrob is still at on infidelity? Infidelity makes feel like a kid every Christ- it. a dent in a relationship. mas. I never lost my child-like He will charm his way Boundaries must be drawn, so wonder, so even just the sight into viewers’ hearts by way of the relationship will be solid. of candy canes and stock- GMA 7’s latest drama series, Partners must be territorial to ings stuffed with gifts excites “Ika-6 na Utos” (weekdays protect what’s rightfully theirs. me. (Dolly Anne Carvajal / after “Eat Bulaga”). The show What makes husbands inquirer.net) Christmas Memories: Marlo Mortel

Sarah Geronimo How do you intend to (Photo: www.youtube.com) celebrate Christmas this year? ing more than the joy of being Unknown.” homage to the songwriting duo of My family and I were onstage. The record features a good Thyro Alfaro and Yumi Lacsa- supposed to watch “Mano “I can’t believe I’d still get mix of ballads and midtempo mana, who have been instrumen- Po 7: Chinoy” on Christmas to see you all like this. I’m so tracks like the fervid “Ako’y Para tal in Sarah’s musical growth. Day, but it’s not part of the overwhelmed. That was why I was Lamang sa ’Yo” and the breezy, Her raw, acoustic rendition very emotional,” she said. “I thank ’90s R&B-inflected “Baby You’re of “Ikot-Ikot” had her vacillating Metro Manila Film Festival. you, and I thank God for being the Reason,” and upbeat, elec- between jazzy vocal improvisa- We’d probably just have a here. I’m not worthy of this, of tronic pop ditties, including the tions and belted high notes. “Kilo- normal get-together. I plan your trust.” peppy “Sabi Mo sa Akin” and the metro” started out like a piano- to watch some of the films in The last few years saw Sarah rock-tinged “Misteryo.” driven ballad, before swelling into the Magic 8. putting in a deliberate effort In a duet on the album’s a sultry jam, with flourishes of As a gift for myself, I just to put more emphasis on her title track, Sarah’s sweet tone electric guitar. original material; to stop being coalesced with the sleepy vocals Meanwhile, in the dreamy, want to relax and not go to reliant on covering other singers’ of special guest Champ Lui Pio slowed-down version of an- work. Dec. 4 is my birthday. hits. This was something the of the pop band, Hale. Later on, other dance tune, “Tala,” Sarah I celebrated it in “Umagang 28-year-old artist has proven to she shared the stage with her explored the gentler side of her Kay Ganda and “A.S.A.P.” be possible, with her two-night father, Delfin Geronimo, in sing- voice. (Allan Policarpio / in- for two years. (Marinel Cruz concert, “From the Top,” last year. ing the carol, “Christmas in Our quirer.net) Marlo Mortel “Unplugged” was another step Hearts”—the only song on the set / inquirer.net) (Photo: www.agoodwaytofangirl.wordpress.com) B8 FilAm Star Dec. 15 - 21, 2016

day, Sunday & Monday Game budget to make planning easy, Dave & Buster’s opens new location in Daly City Day Specials including $5 so you can focus on the fun! Appetizers and $4 22 oz. draft Northern California welcomes the ultimate entertainment destination to eat, drink, play and watch sports beer specials until February Dave & Buster’s Daly City 7th. Pull-Apart, Three Cheese Ad- “The Bay Area Grilled Cheese Sticks, the Short ditional is a melting pot Rib & Cheesy Mac Stack, a Leg- not-to-be- of enthusiastic endary Burger lineup featuring missed spe- sports fans a burger topped with boneless cials include from teams like buffalo wings, and the all-new Happy Hour the San Fran- Kones featuring a multicolored, Carnivore Pizzadilla. (Monday cisco Giants, flashing cube, and the all-new, The restaurant offers an – Friday San Francisco one-of-a-kind Crown Apple equally innovative cocktail 4:30pm 49ers and the Smash and Sailor’s Spiked Root menu that includes tropi- – 7pm), Golden State Beer. cal Tiki Drinks, the Original Late Night Warriors, Guests can also play more CoronaRita, Adult Snow Cones, Happy Hour and we look than 160 of the latest games in Luxe LITs, the Strawberry (Sunday – Thursday 10pm – is located at 130 Serramonte DALY CITY — Dave forward to the Million Dollar Midway, in- Watermelon Margarita poured close), Two For Tuesday, which Center, Daly City CA 94015, &Buster’s, the ultimate enter- providing a fun and vibrant cluding Star Trek, Ghostbusters over strawberry ice cubes, Glow includes $2 select beers, $2 near the intersection of State tainment destination, will soon environment for locals to cheer and Star Wars Battle Pod. Tacos and 2 Free Game Plays Highway 1 and Interstate 280. open at the Serramonte Center. on their respective teams while Those hard-earned tickets can (open – close), and Half-Priced Hours of operation will be Dave & Buster’s Daly City is the enjoying delicious food, drinks, be redeemed with a trip to the Games every Wednesday (open Sunday – Thursday 11:00 a.m. 92nd location, and joins nearby and the latest games.” Winner’s Circle for a variety – close). – Midnight and Friday – Sat- Dave & Buster’s in Roseville The 40,000-square-foot, of prizes, including Apple Dave & Buster’s Daly City urday 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 a.m. and Milpitas. state-of-the-art Dave & Buster’s products, Xbox games, sports features multiple private event The location will open early at “The grand opening in Daly offers the Bay Area the very best memorabilia and much more! spaces to provide an ideal atmo- 10 a.m. during the weeks of De- City marks Dave & Buster’s in food, drink and entertain- The new location’s D&B sphere for any occasion. From cember 19th (except Christmas third location in Northern ment in an upscale, modern Sports Bar is the ultimate des- corporate events and meetings, Day 12/25), December 26th and California, and will appeal to interior. The restaurant’s tination to cheer on all of the to birthday parties and team- January 2nd. a whole new audience in the mouth-watering, chef-crafted Bay Area’s sports teams with building activities, the Dave & For more information on South San Francisco area,” said menu combines fun and flavor massive HD TVs and “better Buster’s team will work with Dave & Buster’s, please visit Charlie Cook, general manager in American fare with items than the stadium” seating. every size (up to 1,700) and www.daveandbusters.com. of Dave & Buster’s Daly City. including the Pepperoni Pretzel Guests can also enjoy Thurs- Church razed by fire starts construction By Elpidio Estioko

Fr. Livio Stella, and Architect Torres said it took him and Ramiro Torres. his team to design the church Mayor Liccardo empha- nine months after it was sized that the construction burned in 2014 and Fr. Stella of the church building is a said the construction will cost special community activity $7 million and will be com- where all parishioners and pleted at the end of 2018. stakeholders will participate. Those who signed the He also acknowledged the documents which were placed firefighters who contained in the time capsule included the fire and he said he was Bishop McGrath, Rev. Fr. Orso, grateful for their noble action. Mayor Liccardo, Councilmem- “My own father used to come ber Peralez, Torres, and Fr. here to hear Mass, so this is Stella. “The time capsule will SAN JOSE – The grounds a special church for me,” Lic- serve as the foundation of the blessing of Holy Cross Church cardo said. church,” Fr. Stella said. which was razed by fire in 2014 Bishop McGrath, on the With the appointment of was officiated by Most Rev. other hand, in his homily said Fil-Am priest Fr. Abner Ablis Patrick Bishop McGrath duly “this construction will teach us as Assistant Pastor, the Fil-Am assisted by Provincial Superior that Jesus Christ is the founda- community became active Rev. Clair Orso with San Jose tion of our life and our church, parishioners. President Ruben Mayor Sam Liccardo as special both physically and spiritually. Rigocera of the Fil-Am com- guest last December 10 at its Let us give thanks to the Lord munity said they will be hold- location in Jackson Street. The for this celebration and let us ing for the first time Simbang blessing was also attended by pray for the successful con- Gabi starting December 15 District 3 Councilmember Raul struction as co -workers with until December 23 from 7:00 Peralez, Church Pastor Rev. the Lord”. p.m. at the Scalabrini Hall.