Warriors move on to face Rockets in West

WEEKLY ISSUE 70 CITIES IN 11 STATES ONLINE SPORTS NEWS | A5 Vol. IX Issue 474 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Email: [email protected] Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 May 10 - 16, 2018 White House, some PH solons oppose installing missiles Malacañang says China missiles deployed in Spratly By Macon Araneta in disputed seas do not target PH FilAm Star Correspondent By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent

Malacañang’s reaction to the expressions of concern over the recent Chinese deploy- ment of missiles in the Spratly islands is one of nonchalance supposedly because said it would not use these against the and that China is a better source of assistance than America. Presidential spokesperson said the improving ties between the Philippines and U.S. Press Sec. Sarah Sanders China is assurance enough that China will not use (Photo: www.newsx.com) its missiles against the Philippines. This echoed President Duterte’s earlier remarks when security The White House warned that China would experts warned that China’s installation of mis- face “consequences” for their leaders militarizing siles in the Spratly islands threatens the Philip- the illegally-reclaimed islands in the West Philip- pines’ international access in the disputed South pine Sea (WPS). China Sea. The installation of Chinese missiles were Duterte said China has not asked for any- reported on Fiery Reef, Subi Reef and Mischief thing in return for its assistance to the Philip- Reef in the Spratly archipelago that claims pines as he allayed concerns of some groups over as its territory. Beijing’s reported deployment of missiles on the “We’re well aware of China’s militarization disputed areas. of the South China Sea,” said U.S. Press Secretary “To this day, ni papel o lapis, walang hiningi Sarah Sanders. ang China pati ,” Duterte said. According “We’ve raised concerns directly with the Chi- to him, one word was enough to persuade China nese about this and there will be near-term (L-R) Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque and DFA Sec. (Photo: www.philippinenewsnow.com) TO PAGE A7 TO PAGE A7 PLDT challenges Duterte’s executive 6 out of 10 Pinoys oppose charter change to Federalism order vs. contracting employees By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent the 1987 Philippine Constitution, according to the By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent latest survey conducted by Pulse Asia Research Incorporated. Telco giant PLDT is challenging the govern- The survey, which was conducted from ment’s crackdown on labor-only contracting in March 23 to 28, found that opposition to charter what could be a test case for corporate social change increased by 20 percentage points from responsibility in the Philippines over a practice 44 percent in July 2016. that is widely described as “pernicious” yet has Of the 64 percent who oppose the shift to persisted for years. Federalism, 32 percent have expressed open- PLDT is not the only big fish being forced ness to altering the Constitution sometime in the by the Department of Labor and Employment future but not at the present, while the other 32 (DOLE) to regularize workers hired through percent said that charter change should not be (L-R) President and third-party contractors. Fastfood chains Jollibee done now or in the future. PLDT Chairman Manny Pangilinan and Burger King have likewise been served with MANILA – Majority of or 64 per- According to Pulse Asia, this result is due (Photo: www.pinoynewsonline.info) TO PAGE A7 cent of them oppose charter change or amending TO PAGE A7 Aussie nun to be deported fights back Anger, dismay, support: how the world sees U.S. withdrawal from Iran deal By William Casis US President Donald Trump’s decision to Rouhani FilAm Star Correspondent withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal prompted Uranium enrichment to resume? furious reaction in Tehran, regret in Europe and “I have instructed the Iranian Atomic Energy Australian missionary Patricia Fox is not cheers from Israel and Saudi Arabia. Organization to take the necessary measures for leaving the country without a fight after she asked The following is a selection of reactions from future actions so that, if necessary, we can resume the Bureau of Immigration (BI) to dismiss the around the globe to Trump’s biggest foreign industrial enrichment without limit.”-- Rouhani deportation proceedings against her. policy move since taking office: Stay the course Fox stressed that she had joined rallies as ‘Psychological warfare’ “Stay true to your commitments as we will (L-R) Iranian President Hassan Rouhani and part of her tasks as a missionary and not as a part “This decision was an act of psychological stay true to ours and together with the rest of the US President Donald Trump of political activities. warfare against Iran.”-- Iranian President Hassan TO PAGE A7 (Photo: www.timesofislamabad.com) “Therefore, they are not political activities per se but also religious activities within the evangelization and missionary works of religious U.S. open to mediating diplomatic row between PH, Kuwait persons,” she said in a 26-page counter-affidavit By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent which she submitted to the BI. She also filed a supplemental motion for Washington would be open to help the “If we can be helpful, I’m sure my colleagues reconsideration to ask the BI to reinstate her Philippines settle its diplomatic row with Kuwait in Washington would consider any such request. canceled missionary visa, arguing that the order but no such proposal has been made, said United So, we will see,” he added. violates her right to due process and prevented States Ambassador to the Philippines Sung Kim. Kim said he expects the two countries will be her from exercising her right to free expression. “We’re always willing to be helpful to resolve able to resolve their diplomatic row. The BI has scheduled the 71-year-old Fox’s delicate, difficult situation between friends and “My sense is that the two countries are work- deportation on May 25 after President Rodrigo partners but I don’t want to assume speculations, ing very hard to resolve the difficult situation,” he Duterte accused her of political activism that or hypotheticals because no one has approached also said. Former Ambassador Jose “Jun” Lozada TO PAGE A7 us about it,” Kim said. TO PAGE A7 (Photo: www.scoopnest.com) Junjun Binay judgment Marcos victims list out Gary V. successful INDEX STEALING FREE reversed for funds release bypass surgery Business & Tech News...... A8 NEWSPAPER IS STILL A CRIME ! Community Awareness...... B3 Entertainment...... B5, B7, B8 Health & Lifestyle...... B5 Legal & Law...... B4 Opinion...... A6 PH News...... A2, A3, A4 Sports News...... A5 Star Access...... B2 PH NEWS | A2 PH NEWS | A3 ENTERTAINMENT | B8 Starliner...... B1 World News...... A9 AB 2612, PLESCIA CRIME A2 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 ph news Teo resigns as Tourism secretary Dismissal of ex- mayor Junjun Tourism Secretary Wanda resignation. nothing wrong and that all Tulfo-Teo resigned Monday Topacio said Teo’s “deci- the dealings of the DOT “went afternoon, her lawyer said sion to leave her position was through all legal processes, Binay upended by Court of Appeals Tuesday. made after a long and deliberate were above-board and done “Yesterday, before the start reflection and soul-searching in good faith, and with total By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent of the latest Cabinet meeting in with respect to the events that absence of malice.” Malacañang Palace, Tourism have transpired the past few “Secretary Teo also Disgraced former Makati Romulo Pena, the councilor that payment of services contracted Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo ten- weeks.” says that she is honored and mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” obtained the highest number of during his prior term,” the CA dered her resignation from the Teo’s resignation came privileged to have served as Binay could stage a comeback votes. added. Department of Tourism (DOT),” amid the controversy of P60- Secretary of Tourism under the after the Court of Appeals (CA) In effect, the condona- The CA added: “Clearly, her lawyer Ferdinand Topacio million in DOT advertising Duterte Administration, where reversed his dismissal in 2015 tion doctrine extinguishes the these pertained to acts which said in a statement. money being placed on the she has done her level best to by the Office of the Ombudsman administrative liability of a re- transpired before Binay, Jr., was “Her letter was personally program of her brothers on discharge her duty to promote for his alleged involvement in elected official for an act com- subsequently elected and con- handed by her to Executive government-owned People’s tourism both domestically and the grossly overpriced city hall mitted in his previous term. tinued in public office on May Secretary Television Network Inc. (PTNI). internationally,” Topacio said. annex building. The Ombuds- In November 2015, the 14, 2013. It is uncontroverted in the afternoon. Later in the She was accused of conflict “Secretary Teo wishes to man also forbade Binay to seek Supreme Court ruled that the that Binay, Jr. served as the City evening, after the Cabinet meet- of interest and urged to resign express her gratitude to all public office again. doctrine, which became part Mayor of Makati from June 28, ing was when she saw the Presi- out of delicadeza. those who have stood by her in In up-ending the Ombuds- of Philippine jurisprudence in 2010 and was re-elected into the man’s dismissal of Junjun over 1959, has no basis in the 1987 same office on May 14, 2013.” dent to talk to him in private,” She had insisted that there her trying times – her immedi- the allegedly anomalous PHP Constitution and in law. It also The decision was penned Topacio added. was no conflict of interest ate family and her official DOT 2.28-billion Makati City by Associate Justice Edwin Presidential Spokesperson saying the DOT’s contract was Family.” Hall Building II project, Sorongon. Concurring Harry Roque confirmed Teo’s with PTNI and that it was the “She wishes her successor the appellate court cited were Associate Justices resignation. television network that placed well and commits to continue the condonation doctrine, Sesinando Villon and Maria “There was a resignation the ads on her brothers’ “Kilos helping President Duterte in his also called Aquinaldo Filomena Singh. The ruling letter [of Teo] that was submit- Pronto” program. advocacy for positive change doctrine because of a clarified that the doctrine of ted to the OES (Office of the “We wish to clarify that even in her capacity as a private previous case involving condonation does not apply Executive Secretary) before the there was NO demand made citizen,” he added. that name. to criminal charges. meeting with the President last on the part of the President for Topacio said Teo would This ambiguous The CA decision on night,” Presidential Spokes- Secretary Teo to resign and that continue to help President doctrine holds that a Jejomar Erwin Binay Binay was preceded by person Harry Roque said in a the decision to do so was purely Rodrigo Duterte’s advocacy for government official (Photo:www.dzrhnews.com.ph) a Supreme Court ruling Palace briefing. of her own volition,” Topacio “positive change” even in her cannot be responsible allowing the application of But Roque said there was said. capacity as a private citizen. for an administrative offense if ruled, however, that abandon- the condonation doctrine on no confirmation yet if President The lawyer said his client (Nestor Corrales / inquirer.net) this was committed before he ment of the doctrine would not the case. The doctrine has been Rodrigo Duterte accepted the maintained that she had done assumed his current position. In be retroactive. a common defense invoked his appeal with the CA that in- The Ombudsman had by elected officials in evading voked the condonation doctrine, found the former Makati mayor liabilities for acts committed in Who is Bernadette Romulo-Puyat? Binay argued that he was not guilty of administrative charges their previous terms in office. yet mayor when the city govern- of grave misconduct and intel- It effectively extinguishes The new secretary of the 2010. ment undertook construction of lectual dishonesty over the a re-elected official’s admin- Department of Tourism is no Puyat’s announcement the controversial building. construction of the controver- istrative liability from alleged stranger to President Rodrigo as new tourism chief came on The CA’s 10th Division, in sial building. It also said that wrongdoing during a previous Duterte. Tuesday night as s former Tour- a 159-page ruling dated May the condonation doctrine did term. Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, ism Secretary Wanda Tulfo-Teo 3, granted Binay’s Petition for not apply to Binay. The SC conceived of the appointed on Tuesday as the resigned following the contro- Review. It held that “the Admin- “Given the factual circum- doctrine in an October 1959 de- new tourism chief, has been an versial P60-million tourism istrative Complaints against stances herein and the prevail- cision. The abandonment of the agriculture undersecretary for advertisement on PTV. Binay are hereby dismissed for ing jurisprudence, this court doctrine would be prospective Administration, Agribusiness Malacañang has yet to pro- being moot and academic on holds that the undisputed and in application, as agreed upon and Marketing, and Regional vide details why Duterte chose the basis of the condonation subsequent re-election of Binay, by the majority of justices dur- Engagement since July 2017. Puyat, but the young official is Bernadette Romulo-Puyat (Photo:www.2017.sustainability- doctrine.” Jr. in the year 2013 is a con- ing the voting. This means the Prior to that, Puyat served not new to the President. summit.ph) Binay filed the appeal donation of his administrative doctrine will apply on Binay’s as an undersecretary for special During a speech in Mala- before the CA, asserting that liabilities,” the CA said. case but he will be the last to concerns at the Department of cañang in March 2017, Duterte the Aguinaldo or condonation “In the same token, this benefit from it. Agriculture during the Aquino noticed Puyat and said he was Aquino and President Fidel V. doctrine applies to him. He was court agrees with Binay, Jr. that The SC rejected the posi- administration. “distracted” by Puyat’s legs. Ramos. a few months shy of complet- the condonation doctrine still tion of Ombudsman Conchita She also previously served “Berna, nadis-distract ako, He also served as vari- ing his mayoral term and was applies to his case, notwith- Carpio-Morales that the condo- as a consultant at the Presiden- you close your legs. National TV ous capacities in the executive set to launch a re-election bid standing the approval of the nation doctrine cannot apply in tial Magement Staff under the ’no. Nakikinig pa ba ang papa department under the admin- in the 2016 elections. The aforementioned (Disbursement Binay’s case. Arroyo administration. mo?” the President said, elicit- istrations of President Gloria mayor’s post was taken over by Vouchers) as these pertained to Puyat has been visible in ing laughter from the audience. Macapagal-Arroyo and Presi- some of Duterte’s events, where Puyat is the daughter of Al- dent Benigno Aquino III – as the President would expressed berto Romulo and Rosie Lovely executive secretary, finance sec- his fondness for the official. Tecson-Romulo. retary, foreign affairs secretary, She was widowed in 2010 served as and budget secretary. (Nestor after her husband, lawyer David senator during the adminis- Corrales / inquirer.net) Puyat, died of heart attack in trations of President Corazon Sereno ouster ‘a done deal’ Chief Justice Maria Lourdes petition,” it said. Reyes Jr., , Sereno will most likely be Not giving up , Alexander unseated by her colleagues on Despite the overwhelming Gesmundo, and the Supreme Court on Friday, odds, Sereno was not about to . becoming the first constitutional give up the fight, telling a group The Chief Justice, who had officer to be removed not by of students on Tuesday to ignore been compelled by her colleagues impeachment. the calls for her to quit to avoid to take an indefinite leave start- Two court insiders on the ignominy of being the first ing March 1, had demanded Tuesday claimed at least eight Chief Justice to be ousted by her the recusal of De Castro, Tijam, justices had already “decided” to colleagues on the top court. Jardeleza, Peralta, Bersamin and grant the quo warranto petition “There’s no use for me to Martires for bias against her. brought by Solicitor General Jose resign. Resignation is only for One of the court insiders Calida, the Duterte administra- cowards,” Sereno told a forum at said acting Chief Justice Antonio tion’s principal lawyer, against Adamson University in Manila. Carpio and Associate Justices Sereno. “What we need now is a na- and Benjamin The Supreme Court decision tion of heroes. The time calls for Alfredo Caguioa would vote for would preempt the impeachment millions of heroes. We don’t get the rejection of Calida’s petition. proceedings against Sereno in democracy by calling a person But the source said at least the House of Representatives. ‘honorable.’ That’s not the es- one of the three justices “believes “The Chief Justice’s re- sence of democracy,” she said. that the Chief Justice could be moval from [office] is a foregone Another court insider said held for culpable violation” of the conclusion. It’s a done deal,” a the number of Supreme Court Constitution. court insider told the Inquirer on justices who would agree with Associate Justices Estela Tuesday. Calida would “likely reach as Perlas Bernabe and Mariano “It seems only a miracle of high as 11.” del Castillo “may also join the biblical proportions could pre- First female CJ majority” while Associate Justice vent this historic event. I don’t “Since there are only 14 jus- Presbitero Velasco Jr. “could side know how Sereno could still tices participating in the special with Justice Carpio,” according dodge this,” the source said. [full-court] session, the ‘magic to the source. Even Sereno’s staunch- number’ is only eight. It appears One of the court insid- est supporters have hoisted the Calida’s petition has already won ers said Tijam, who wrote the white flag, calling on the people the support of at least eight jus- decision for the majority, gave a to participate in the so-called tices,” the court insider said. copy of his 150-page draft ruling Jericho March in front of the Su- “For most of the justices, to some of his colleagues on the preme Court building on Padre they are not actually removing a court on Tuesday. Faura Street in Manila hours be- Chief Justice … since Sereno was Defend the Constitution fore the special full-court session not legitimately designated when Sereno’s supporters said the on May 11. she assumed the post in 2012,” justices had “refused to render They said the justices’ intent the source added. justice and appear to be set to to grant Calida’s petition, which Then 52, Sereno became grant the unconstitutional and primarily argues that Sereno’s the first female Chief Justice of time-barred” quo warranto peti- alleged failure to submit her the Philippines and the second tion. statements of liabilities, assets youngest to head the judiciary “Only the people can defend and net worth casts doubt on her when she was appointed by then the Constitution. The conse- integrity to lead the judiciary, President Benigno Aquino III. quences of the grant of the [quo was a “serious threat to our Primed to occupy the high- warranto] petition will democracy.” est judicial post for 18 years, be far-reaching,” they said in a “Unfortunately, from all Sereno might suffer the fate of statement. indications, it appears that … her predecessor, the late Chief They added: “Impeachable [the] majority [of the justices] Justice Renato Corona, who was officials can now be removed not will grant the petition,” a Sereno ousted from office after he was for the serious grounds under the supporter said in a text message found guilty by the Senate of Constitution, but for the most circulated on Tuesday. culpable violation of the Consti- trivial causes and at any time “While the Chief Justice has tution. … [The] quo warranto will be a moved for the inhibition of six According to the two weapon to bludgeon officials into biased justices, they have refused sources, those who would grant submission.” (Marlon Ramos/ to do so without explanation. Calida’s pleading are Associate inquirer.net) Their failure to inhibit taints the Justices Teresita Leonardo-de process and any decision on the Castro, , Andres May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star A3 ph news Ease of doing business & efficient gov’t delivery law to make PH competitive by 2020 Final list of Marcos victims qualified for funds released A body formed to process crimes committed against based,” she said. By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent compensation claims by victims claimants. “We scrutinize their sto- of abuses during Victims of enforced disap- ries,” Sarmiento added. “If they The national government a press briefing last week. owners and property location released on Monday pearance and killings get 10 say the claimant was tortured is preparing to deploy a simpli- An oversight committee through the electronic data- the final list of victims quali- points, torture victims get six to without details, we have to fied model for obtaining con- will monitor LGUs’ compliance base of the Registry of Deeds. fied to receive funds charged to nine points, arbitrary detention check,” she said. struction permits that would with the streamlined proce- A milestone in enforcing the P10 billion in stolen wealth victims get three to five points The board also veri- cut processing time from 122 dures. Aside from the DILG, contracts is automation at the recovered from the family of the and victims of other rights vio- fied documents presented by days to 36 days nationwide. the committee is composed Supreme Court, where cases late dictator . lations get one to two points. claimants, like old newspaper The Human Rights Victims The board’s last day of clippings, and used these as This is part of broad efforts of the Department of Public are now raffled electronically. Claims Board (HRVCB) ap- operation is on May 11, 2018. reference for other claimants, to raise the country’s global Works and Highways, Depart- “We already succeeded in proved 11,103 of at least 75,730 Sarmiento advised all Sarmiento said. ranking in the ease of doing ment of Trade and Industry eliminating bottlenecks and claims filed with the board. claimants on the final list to Claimants who have in- business (EODB), which saw (DTI), Department of Infor- streamlining procedures. The Lina Sarmiento, HRVCB open a regular savings account complete documents had been the Philippines slide from 99th mation and Communications challenge now is how to fully chair, said the amounts of with Land Bank of the Philip- given enough time to submit to 113th in the World Bank Technology and the BFP. implement automation and financial compensation ranged pines branches that are nearest complete documents, she said. (WB) report for this year. “We are now to constitute interconnectivity at all levels of from P176,000 to P1.76 million. to them and submit copies of “While we encounter fake The Department of teams-coaches and mentors government,” DTI Sec. Ramon Money for the compensa- savings transaction information claimants, our priority is to Interior and Local Govern- at the regional and provincial Lopez was quoted in a press tion would come from the P10 (STI) to the HRVCB by May 9 to identify the eligible claimants,” ment (DILG) reported recently levels to assist cities and mu- release. billion in Swiss bank deposits ensure full reparation payment. Sarmiento said. that about 60 percent of local nicipalities (to) cut out unnec- Officials said the govern- seized by the government from ‘-based’ The board, she said, may government units (LGUs) essary steps and requirements ment was also working on leg- the Marcoses. Qualified claimants were file cases against those who have shortened the process- and meet the new standards on islation to update provisions of Proportionate to crime told to e-mail their STI to made false claims. ing of business permits to building permits and certificate the Corporation Code on start- Sarmiento, at a forum at secretariat@hrvclaimsboard. Some martial law victims, the University of the Philip- gov.ph and call the HRVCB hot who were not seeking compen- pines Hotel on Saturday, said lines (02) 373-4847 and 0999- sation, would be recognized and the board issued Resolution No. 5059737 for details. given nonmonetary recognition. 16-2018, which contained the Sarmiento said some These included former Sen. final list of claimants. claimants had falsified docu- Aquilino Pimentel Jr., Sarm- Compensation amounts ments. iento said. (Jodee Agoncillo / would be proportionate to “Our process is evidence- inquirer.net) AFP asks Robredo to keep mum on security briefing The Armed Forces of the Philippines on Tuesday gave Vice President a security briefing which the AFP asked the Vice President’s camp to keep confidential. Col. Edgard Arevalo, AFP spokesperson, said it was a “regular visit” by the Vice Presi- dent at but (Photo: www. factly.in) would not give details on what was discussed. (L-R) AFP spokesperson Col. Edgard Arevalo and VP Leni Robredo A source from the Office of two days, based on a survey of occupancy,” Panadero said. ing a business and protecting (Photos:www.dw.com / www. memebuster.net) the Vice President confirmed done in January where 1,419 The new standard for minority investors. The Ease of the briefing but said that it was tial. (Jeannette I. Andrade / LGUs, comprising 94 percent processing these documents is Doing Business and Efficient a “regular security meeting with inquirer.net) of all cities and municipali- a unified application form, an Government Service Delivery defense officials.” ties nationwide, reported on 8-step procedure, and one-time Act of 2018 has likewise been The source said Robredo their compliance with business assessment and payment of passed by Congress and await- had already received two secu- permitting standards that took fees. Previously, there were 36 ing the President’s signature. rity briefings from the military. call us to advertise visit our website effect in 2016. steps in the process, including Meanwhile, the Depart- The source added that A model facility for securing a barangay clearance, ment of Finance (DoF) an- the AFP asked Robredo to 415-278-0692 www.filamstar.com streamlined processing of which has now been made a nounced last week that 20 out treat information given to her construction permits has been post-requirement. of the targeted 66 government during the briefing as confiden- set up in where the Red tape and corruption agencies would be connected to LGU’s Business Permits and down to the barangay level the TradeNet platform by the Licensing Office, Zoning Office, have been cited as permit- middle of the year. TradeNet or and the Treasurer’s Office is co- ting bottlenecks, with some the Philippine National Single located with the Bureau of Fire companies forced to shower Window is expected to soon Protection (BFP) and electric- concerned officials and their be linked to the ASEAN Single ity service provider Meralco. staff with gifts to obtain neces- Window, which allows the Processing is computerized and sary signatures. electronic exchange of border open to online applications. DTI officials also reported documents within the region to The city government is likewise that starting a business in the speed up cargo clearances and connected to Meralco, which country is now easier with the promote economic integration. electronically receives building Securities and Exchange Com- The DoF is touting the permits and certificates of final mission migrating its company Duterte administration’s electrical inspection processed. registration system to full “comprehensive deployment The one-stop shop was automation since November of ICT to enhance governance showcased last month to the last year and the Bureau of efficiency.” These upgrades WB team that assessed the Internal Revenue launching include the launch of Govern- country’s progress for the 2019 a single window option for ment Cloud Service (GovCloud) EODB report. registrations. These changes and the PHPAY platforms as “We have started with have shortened processing time centralized portals for govern- Quezon City moving to all cit- from 28 days to 16 days, they ment transactions. ies, first NCR (National Capital said. The government’s goal is Region), later to other cities Registering property now to raise the country’s competi- and municipalities,” DILG takes only 20 days, and parties tiveness ranking to the top 20 Usec. Austere Panadero said in can verify land titles, registered percent globally by 2022. A4 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 ph news ‘Best country for investing’ but PEZA records continuing plunge in foreign businesses By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent

Glowing reports about the Philippines being the “best country alarm raised by foreign investors over the second tranche of the foreign investors can look forward to more than just income tax to invest in” has not yet translated to increasing foreign invest- Tax Reform for Acceleration and Inclusion (TRAIN) Act being holidays and the five percent tax on gross income earned — incen- ments. For the past five years, except in 2015, total foreign invest- proposed by the Department of Finance (DoF). tives that the Duterte administration would like to phase out in ments registered with investment promotion agencies (IPAs) have TRAIN 2 was filed at the House of Representatives on March five years. In their place would be options such as long enough net been going down. The steepest fall since 1997 was recorded last 21 and is pending first reading. operating loss carry-over, accelerated depreciation, and double- year at 51.77 percent, based on historical data compiled by the “After the increase in prices of goods and services, the govern- deduction of research and development, training and similar Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). ment will put the jobs of many Filipinos in peril by removing incen- expenses that improve competitiveness, according to the DTI. The The trend is continuing this year, with a 36.5 percent proposed new rules peg investor incentives on the govern- plunge recorded during the first quarter in line with a 40.2 ment’s Strategic Investments Priorities Plan rather than percent drop in investments registered with the Philippine citizenship or export market and many other exemptions Economic Zone Authority (PEZA), the administrator of provided by layers of legislation, based on DTI and DoF some 380 economic zones throughout the country where disclosures. many foreign investors are located. The DoF vigorously promotes TRAIN 2 as a way of Since PEZA investments usually comprise less than leveling the playing field for small-- and medium--sized 30 percent of foreign direct investments (FDIs) coursed enterprises, many of which are locally owned, that are being through seven IPAs in the country, its dwindling numbers taxed more than investors located in ecozones. Citing 2015 has not yet reversed the upward trajectory of FDIs. During data, the agency revealed that about 3,000 PEZA-registered the first three months of the year, investments worth PHP firms claimed incentives worth more than PHP 300 billion 182.83 billion were approved by the Board of Investments because they were entitled to either zero or five percent cor- (BoI) and PEZA, the Department of Trade and Industry porate income tax, while some 800,000 companies through- (DTI) reported late last month. This marks an improvement out the Philippines paid regular taxes at 30 percent. PEZA of 53.2 percent from the comparative year-ago level with firms, however, accounted for only one percent of businesses robust local investments propelling BoI project approvals by registered with the Bureau of Internal Revenue in 2015, and 123.8 percent. only six percent of total employment in the country for that But a slippery slope is becoming visible. The BoI an- year, the DoF pointed out. nounced on May 3 that its investment approvals increased “We have been granting incentives for 50 years, and it is by 28 percent during the first four months of the year to time we reevaluate whether the benefits are worth the cost,” PHP 196 billion from PHP 153 billion in January to April DoF Usec. was quoted in an agency 2017. This means that for the month of April alone, BoI press release. investment approvals plunged by 48.8 percent, and this (Photo: www. cbos.com.ph) “The government will give support to pro-poor and does not include PEZA numbers yet. BoI and PEZA together sometimes riskier investments for a reasonable amount of account for about 95 percent of FDIs, with BoI generating time, after which support can be directed to new players or some 70 percent of project approvals. tives to some businesses,” Aquino said in an April 30 press release, those who wish to expand their contributions to job generation, “The additional projects registered in April may be moderate which added that if tax incentives provided to PEZA-accredited innovation and countryside development,” added DoF Asst. Sec. but over the coming months we express confidence more investors firms were removed, many companies would be forced to close Paola Alvarez. will continue to come in and make up for the shortfall. We also ex- shop and investors would shelve plans to locate in the country. According to PEZA Director-General Charito Plaza, some pect that FDIs will pick-up as its outlook is always long-term which There are about 1.476 million workers spread across the 380 revisions to TRAIN 2 are being considered. “PEZA, DoF and DTI will generate more jobs and business opportunities,” DTI Sec. ecozones nationwide, according to PEZA. recently agreed to revise and retain present incentives to enhance Ramon Lopez, also chairman of both BoI and PEZA, was quoted in Last month, the European Chamber of Commerce of the Phil- and give more incentives to basic industries, basic crops industries, DTI’s May 3 press release. ippines and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce and Industry of industries bringing in new technology and training, and those The FDI numbers are not quite so promising, however. His- the Philippines became vocal about foreign investors placing plans industries that will develop the countryside, the poor, war and torical data show that the share of FDIs has dwindled from 42.16 on hold and starting to look at other ASEAN countries in view of disaster-stricken areas of the country,” she posted recently on her percent of BoI and PEZA approvals in 2012, to just 11.7 percent the proposal to rationalize incentives, which businessmen see as personal Facebook page. last year. In 2016, FDIs accounted for 31.9 percent. Between 2012 changing the rules midstream. In March, the American Chamber She has also expressed confidence in the influx of Chinese and 2017, it was only in 2015 when the FDI share increased—from of Commerce of the Philippines had warned of a “dark cloud on the investments, citing an imminent entry into integrated steel in- 25.92 percent in 2014 to 34.51 percent. horizon.” dustries. PEZA is prioritizing and other areas in Lanao There is also a danger that jitters over the impending restruc- DTI officials have tried to calm the waters by explaining to province for eco-zone development. It is also working on establish- turing of corporate taxes and the phase-out of incentives might Japanese investors, who account for about 30 percent and are ing Knowledge Innovation Science Technology (KIST) parks across cause further FDI decline. ranked the number one source of FDIs to the Philippines, that state-owned universities and colleges nationwide. Investors are Sen. Bam Aquino, assistant minority leader, has echoed the the gift of TRAIN 2 is more latitude. With the proposed changes, being led to locate in and in KIST parks. FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955 May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star A5 sports Fresno Fights: 115-Pound Champions Ancajas, Yafai to defend world titles May 26 on ESPN+ news FRESNO, Calif. (April 30, ticket on-sale information will be row, four by , since a 10- 2018) - Two of the world’s most announced soon. round unanimous decision loss to Curry ‘off the leash’ in leading Warriors past Pelicans dynamic 115-pound talents — on a “I am so glad and very grate- Go Onaga on Nov. 15, 2015. A na- collision course to a potential title ful that I was given an opportunity tive of Tampilisan, Zamboanga del OAKLAND, Calif. — Stephen enraging the two-time MVP who let unification bout — will take center to fight ,” Ancajas Norte, Philippines, Sultan lost two Curry is back doing everything with the officials know how upset he was stage at the on said. “We are given a chance to split decisions in his first six pro fire and flair — and without fear by the push and no call. the first on ESPN world display our talents on a world fights. Like Ancajas, he has won after impatiently spending a month Holiday contributed 27 points championship card on ESPN+, stage, two Filipinos fighting for a several fights in his opponents’ and a half on the sidelines. and 11 assists, but even with better Saturday, May 26 at 9:30 p.m. ET. world title. This is history, and our home countries, including a 2016 Curry played his most minutes shooting, New Orleans couldn’t Filipino standout Jerwin names will be linked forever.” second-round TKO over Makazole since missing nearly six weeks stay with deep, score-at-will Golden with a knee injury, finishing with State. ‘Pretty Boy’ Ancajas will defend “I can’t wait to make my U.S. Tete in East , South Africa. 28 points and helping the Golden “No matter what the score is, the International Boxing Federa- debut. It’s something I’ve always Yafai (23-0, 14 KOs), from State Warriors advance to the no matter the time, whatever it is, tion (IBF) junior wanted to do since I laced them Birmingham, England, turned pro Western Conference finals for a we play desperate,” Holiday said. world title in the main event up,” Yafai said. “This is the right in 2012 following an accomplished fourth straight year by disman- The defending champions are against countryman Jonas Sultan. time to do it. Everyone wants to amateur career, winning eight tling Anthony Davis and the New serious about a repeat title and took It marks the first world title bout fight in America at some stage in fights in his first eight months Orleans Pelicans 113-104 in Game 5 one step closer to that goal. featuring two Filipino fighters their career, and this is the right in the paid ranks. On March 21, on Tuesday night. So far this postseason, with in 93 years, when Pancho Villa moment for me to announce 2014, he stopped Yaqub Kareem in “I think Coach did a great job Durant and Green leading the defended the world title myself in the States. I know people the third round to win the vacant though of just giving him a little bit way, the Warriors have admirably against Clever Sencio on May 2, will talk about the Commonwealth here and there and tonight really defended the slower San Antonio 1925. fight, of course, but Carmona is title. Yafai won the British super just letting him go,” Kevin Durant Spurs and now the imposing, push- In the co-feature, Great the man in front of me, and he’s all flyweight title in March 2016 and said. “You see when you let the dog the-pace Pelicans. Britain’s Kal Yafai will make the I’m thinking about. I have to look soon set his sights on a world off the leash what happens.” Green had another superb third defense of his World Boxing good against Carmona, but I know crown. Durant scored 24 points and all-around night on both ends with Association (WBA) super flyweight that the Ancajas fight is something On Dec. 10, 2016, Yafai domi- Klay Thompson added 23 for the 19 points, 14 rebounds, nine assists, title against David Carmona. that can happen down the line in nated Luis Concepcion via unani- Warriors, who with a 15th straight three steals and two blocked shots. Kevin Durant shoots over former Soon-to-be announced undercard the States or in England.” mous decision, winning the WBA home playoff win tied Chicago for The Warriors came out of Warrior Ian Clark bouts, including appearances Ancajas (27-1-1,19 KOs), from belt and becoming Birmingham’s an NBA record. The Bulls did so halftime with a 10-0 run over the (Photo: www.mercurynews.com) by welterweight contender Jose Barangay Ramirez, Magallanes, first world champion in 109 years. from April 27, 1990 to May 21, 1991. opening 1:54, forcing two Pelicans Benavidez and Central Valley Cavite, Philippines, will be making In his most recent title defense, Davis had 34 points and 19 timeouts and taking control for the “It feels like he’s back now,” products Bryan Lua and Isidro the fifth defense of the world title Yafai turned back a tough chal- rebounds for a Pelicans team that rest of the game. coach Steve Kerr said. Ochoa, will be shown on ESPN+ he won on Sept. 3, 2016 in lenge from Sho Ishida, winning a overcame the loss of DeMarcus Thompson hit back-to-back On a side note, he went 0 for 5 starting at 6:30 p.m. ET. City, Philippines, when he knocked unanimous decision by scores of Cousins to a season-ending torn 3-pointers midway through the on his signature tunnel shots before The Ancajas vs. Sultan / down the previously undefeated 118-110 and 116-112 (2x). Achilles tendon three months first to put Golden State up 17-10, the game. Yafai vs. Carmona world cham- McJoe Arroyo in the eighth round Carmona (21-5-5, 9 KOs), ago to make this strong run. The the second right in front of his own Tip-ins pionship doubleheader will be en route to a unanimous decision. from Mexico City, will be making Pelicans shaved the lead to seven bench as teammates erupted in Pelicans: Rajon Rondo dealt streamed live and exclusively in Ancajas made his U.S. and Top his third attempt at a world title points with two minutes left on a celebration. He began 6 for 9 and with a sore groin that limited his the U.S. on ESPN+ — the first-ever Rank debut as the co-feature to the at 115 pounds. In 2013, he fell to basket by Davis before Draymond had 14 points by the 4:10 mark of time in the second half. … New Or- multi-sport, direct-to-consumer Gilberto Ramirez vs. Habib Ahmed longtime WBO champion Omar Green’s turnaround fadeaway mo- the first. leans made 6 of 9 3s in the first and finished 10 for 24 from long range. subscription streaming service bout on a Top Rank on ESPN card, Narvaez via seventh-round TKO. ments later. Durant became irate when … New Orleans got back in it with from The Walt Disney Company’s Feb. 3 in Corpus Christi, Texas. And, in 2016, he dropped a unani- The Warriors advance to play Nikola Mirotic made a late, hard an 11-0 run in the second. Direct-to-Consumer and Interna- On that night, Ancajas steamrolled mous decision to pound-for-pound the top-seeded Houston Rockets in bump on a 3-point try with 5:23 what has long been an anticipated left in the first — a play that was Warriors: Green is the first tional group and ESPN. ESPN+ is Israel Gonzalez, knocking him elite , who’d knocked Western Conference finals matchup reviewed and Mirotic received just Warrior to ever average a triple- available to all fans on the ESPN down three times and scoring a out Narvaez to win the title. On — with a Finals feel, perhaps. a common foul. double in a playoff series. … Durant App and ESPN.com. 10th-round TKO. March 10, 2017, he lost a disputed The series starts Monday night in As Durant took free throws, scored 20 or more points in a 17th Fans can watch Ancajas One of the most devastating unanimous decision to former Houston. The teams didn’t meet Green tried to listen in on the straight postseason game. His first vs. Sultan / Yafai vs. Carmona, punchers in the lighter weight WBC super flyweight champion during the 2017 postseason, but the Pelicans’ huddle before official Josh five points moved him past two hundreds of other boxing matches classes, Ancajas is 15-0 with 14 Carlos Cuadras. In his last bout, Warriors won a five-game series in Tiven pulled him away. players — Chris Mullin (685) and per year, other Top Rank on since his only loss, a 10- on March 2 of this year, he scored the first round of the 2016 playoffs. “I don’t have a reaction, that’s Harrison Barnes (687) — into 10th ESPN content and thousands of round majority decision to Mark a fourth-round TKO over Jesus Houston eliminated Utah in its Draymond,” New Orleans coach place all-time for the Warriors in other live events by subscribing Geraldo on March 17, 2012. He Iribe in Mexico City. Game 5 earlier Tuesday. Alvin Gentry said. “Should that postseason scoring. … Curry (366) to ESPN+ for just $4.99 a month has defended his title in Australia, For more information visit: Curry, who returned for Game surprise me?” passed Paul Arizin (364) for second (or $49.99 per year). To subscribe, Northern Ireland, and Macao, a www.toprank.com, www.espn. 2 after nearly six weeks out with Curry’s series place on the franchise postseason fans simply download or open the world traveler intent on staking com/boxing, watch.espnplus.com; a knee injury, knocked down an Curry went 10 for 16 in 37 list for made free throws. … Durant ESPN App or visit ESPNPlus.com his claim as the top fighter in the Facebook :facebook.com/trboxing, open 3-pointer midway through the minutes playing his fourth game received the Al Attles Community and subscribe. Fans can stream on loaded 115-pound weight class. facebook.com/espndeportes; Twit- third and raised his hands to get the back from a sprained left knee he Impact Award in a pregame cer- the ESPN App on mobile and TV- Sultan (14-3, 9 KOs), ranked ter: twitter.com/trboxing, @ESPN crowd going, then made another hurt March 23. His minutes have emony. The Warriors Community connected devices and on ESPN. No. 1 by the IBF, is coming off the @ESPNBoxeo @ESPNDeportes. less than two minutes later. He increased each game he plays, up Foundation will donate $15,000 to com. biggest victory of his career, when Use the hashtags #AncajasSultan converted three free throws at the to 31 in Game 4 and 37 on Tuesday. the charity Durant chose, Oakland Promoted by Top Rank, in he knocked out former two-divi- and #YafaiCarmona to join the 6:25 mark following a hard foul by He added eight assists and seven Elizabeth House, which provides association with MP Promotions, sion champion conversation on social media. Jrue Holiday. rebounds in Game 5. residences to women and children Big Al Presents, Joven Sports, and on Sept. 16, 2017 in City, In the second quarter, Holiday He was 32 for 67 with 15 3s in who have been homeless or faced Matchroom Boxing USA, special Philippines. He has won five in a shoved Curry hard into the basket, the series. violence or addiction. (inquirer.net) A6 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 opinion Dual Voice

Hindsights on Zuckerberg’s Capitol Tour have run not for hours but days and weeks of distasteful grandstanding and political maneu- FREDDIE ESPIRITU verings. The American legislators were many times parochial in grilling the Facebook founder Facebook, fave sentation and democratic principles popularly Quezon once desired that became lingering mal- while venting their constituents’ interests but not to two billion users, working ideally in a free society enacting laws aise stunting the nation’s growth,empowerment starkly leveled down as in the comical, shameful imprints in the mind that regulate societal and business behavior. and progress. Relegated in pathway to perdition and mundane proportions in the run-of-the-mill hindsights on the The intelligent electorate derives in varied forms is the sterling glory era of Congress when illustri- Philippine- hearings convened in aid of prevailing American actual gauge if they committed grave mistakes in ous names like Claro M. Recto, , legislation. Plenary proceedings disappointingly democratic legisla- sending their legislator choices to Washington. In Lorenzo Tanada, , Ferdinand lack luster, depth, trust, faith and valued results. tive processes. Its America, people’s vote wield enormous power. It Marcos, and many other brilliant At least, in the American Capitol, inquiries and usually T-shirt don- grooves or unmakes Capitol players who renege minds crowned the historic institution as source elicitations bear out, if not merely validate, ini- ning dorm creator Marc Zuckerberg, this time in on their duties and citizens’ expectations. Solons of intellect, consensus and policy. The debates tially studied and crafted proposals of determined crisp suit, embroiled himself in a 10-hour damage are disgraced if they saddle themselves in thought were engaging that Filipinos troop to congres- legislators. Flaws of Washington lawmakers are control at the Capitol for two consecutive days of and performance mediocrity more so in shame- sional hearings for scholarly clamor, satisfaction still subtler by sheer collective accomplishments redeeming tanked corporate image burned out ful ruckus. Whatever congressional circus, power and acquisition. Later generations of lawmakers and earned respect. by Facebook’s momentary Waterloo, the Cam- struggles and back room play in American setting like Raul Roco, , Ramon Mitra, I am Filipino at heart not to be mistaken as bridge Analytica fiasco. Thanks to exhaustive however are tamed and pale in comparison with Aquilino Pimentel, Rene Cayetano, Juan Ponce betraying the nation with these litany of dis- live-streaming and TV coverage. Individuals in- the Philippine legislative panorama in truth and Enrile, Miriam Santiago relived the gems of his- gruntlement in the supposed voice of Juan dela terested in the leading social media platform got consequence. tory briefly in their era. Congress has since lost Cruz in what should be hailed as august halls of updated anytime, anywhere. This corner opts not In my homeland, primordial determinants of whatever glittering carat that remained. You hook Congress. The present crop of Philippine lawmak- to scribe commentary on hovering issues revolv- empowering congressional actors largely depend yourself on live broadcast or brave the metropolis ers will have to earn their constituency’s respect ing on ethics, privacy, domination, wicked indus- on guns, goons and gold that almost perpetually traffic for personal witnessing and what you get as enshrined in the 1986 Constitution they drool try players, political misuse, advertising untruth, enthrone ruling dynasties and traditional politi- are yawning, ridiculous, and absurd moments in the mouth to tinker with soon. Discern within fair trade competition, nor tech-profiteering. Let cians. Votes are massively bought and sold thus with celluloid actors, sportsmen, media hyped yourselves and don’t blame the basic charter. The the legislators flesh out acquired wisdom from the general populace gets the shorter end of the celebrities and traditional politicians. existing US Constitution was signed on Septem- blind curves into the body of laws that protect the stick. The electoral malpractices, systemic im- What a pesky deterioration and degenera- ber 17, 1787 in Philadelphia. Yet, the Zuckerberg populace. perfections, flawed culture and large-scale fraud tion Marc Zuckerberg’s sanity would not have proceedings still proved the supreme law of the The Zuckerberg baptism of crises largesse have for generations institutionalized decades survived has he been Filipino subpoenaed to land still works for the American society and bares out crowning lessons on people repre- of governance like hell as President Manuel Luis present-day Congress. His engagements would Congress. Street Talk As I See It Lighting a candle in Duterte’s Technology, per se, doesn’t optimize darkness teaching and learning! GREG B. MACABENTA ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO

Several years ago, Manila and the environmental degradation of such jewels as then House Speaker Jose . I thought, hav- Technology merely provides the tools to be used de Venecia spoke before On mainstream US TV, the daily criticism of President the Filipino community at Donald Trump occasionally includes his alleged fascination ing the latest tech- for authentic learning. ... Teachers must deter- the Philippine Consulate in with authoritarian leaders like “Vladimir Putin of Russia and nology in the class- mine how technology tools are used, and they San Francisco. Expectedly, Rodrigo Duterte of the Philippines,” evoking visions of a secret room will give you must have a hand in designing the staff develop- he gave a glowing and CIA plot to depose the latter. exceedingly upbeat report In sum, a confirmation of the social media foreboding of the competitive edge ment process that trains them. on conditions in the Philippines. During the open forum, I said my friend in Manila. Darkness. needed in competing in this world-wide web era! This is where Lynne Schrum article titled that, with due respect, I could have sworn that he had been But here I am in Manila on a quick visit and I see life My educator-friend Ruel Manipis also thought Technology as a tool to support Instruction come talking about another country. going on as normally as in the years that I spent in my beloved the same thing. It turns out it’s not enough! What into play. Lynne Schrum presented her personal I then showed him the headlines in the local Filipino- rambunctious city, aptly expressed in the classic tribute com- American newspapers. They painted a completely different and posed by the brothers Dennis and Rene Garcia of the Hotdogs: matters most, according to an article published perspective on the ways in which technology can very depressing picture of the Philippines. “Hinahanap-hanap kita Manila, ang ingay mong kay lately in The Journal titled Display size matters: enhance learning -- and calls on educators to Shortly before that incident, Malacañang had dismantled sarap sa tenga…mga jeepney mong nagliliparan…mga babae take a leadership role in determining the ways in the press information office, leaving only a small staff to handle Selecting the right display size for classrooms, is mong nag-gagandahan…” which technology is used to support educational international communications. If they had been dishing out And, on this visit, I have learned about developments that coming out with selecting the right display size good news about the Philippines similar to that of De Venecia, my fellow Pinoys in the US would likely swear could only be for the classrooms to support the right visual goals. Lynne Schrum is the past president of the most of us in the US had not stumbled on them. The headlines possible in another country. Not the Philippines. environment. International Society for Technology in Educa- in the FilAm papers had mostly been lifted from the Manila The other night, my wife and I had dinner at the “When it comes to visual technology’s impact tion (ISTE) and is an associate professor in the dailies. residence of Greg and Myrna Garcia. Greg, a former board However, as unflattering and negative as those headlines chairman and creative director of Hemisphere-Leo Burnett, a on K-12 education, the biggest hurdle isn’t which department of instructional technology at the were, they were benign compared to the news these days about leading Manila ad agency, is the current chairman of the Bases technology to select but how to best support the University of Georgia. the Philippines that can be picked up from mainstream Ameri- Conversion & Development Authority (BCDA) which oversees In the 1980s, when computers were first can and FilAm media, as well as from social media. right visual environment that optimizes teaching the transformation of former Philippine and US military bases and learning”, the article mentioned. making their way into our classrooms and we The other day, a friend in Manila posted this on Face- into business and industrial centers and modern metropolitan book: “Why do I have this strange, hard to identify feeling of hubs. Amazing, right? The Journal, transforming were still unfamiliar with the technology and dread, call it anxiety about what things are about to happen? I had earlier caught a story posted online about New education through technology, continued: “We uncertain about its possibilities, we stepped back From all reports business outlook is positive, good. But a Clark City being built by the BCDA in the vast piece of real es- country does not thrive on business alone. If it means anything, need to consider the factors that most impact and let software developers, hardware vendors, tate that used to be Clark Air Force Base. I asked Greg about it. and other technicians define not only what we business thrives on a secure country. One that knows where it At this, Greg handed me a publication entitled, “CLARK – The student visibility and legibility and guidance for is going, what it believes in. What do we believe in? Where do vision of a modern Philippines.” selecting the screen size best suited for specific could buy but also how those products would be we want to go?” After scanning the upbeat articles in the publication. I classroom environments. Imaging technology used. In many ways, the technology drove the If you are an overseas Filipino, as I am, that kind of did a quick Google search of past news items about the same has dramatically affected the experience of K-12 educational process. And guess what? It didn’t assessment of the way things are in the Philippines would prob- subject – and there they were buried amid the horror stories ably discourage you from visiting the homeland. about the Duterte government. teaching and classroom dynamics”. work very well, Schrum observed! The reports in the FilAm media in the US are about a Let me quote one such news item: This may be likened to the fact that it’s not Now, we’ve entered an era in which technol- government moving dangerously close to a dictatorship, a “The construction of New Clark City, a modern metropo- ogy is no longer an intimidating novelty where transactional legislature working to impeach the Chief Justice the teacher’s lesson plan that matters, it’s how lis envisioned to be next growth driver in Luzon, is on track, educators need to get on board and see to it that of the Supreme Court, an elected vice-president whose seat the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) said the teacher delivers the lessons as contained in is being challenged by the son of an unlamented dictator, a Monday. the plan. While principals require teacher’s les- students become technologically skilled. But is voracious Chinese neighbor gobbling up chunks of Philippine “This was assured by BCDA President and Chief Ex- son plans, the latter may need to ably deliver the mere technological skill enough? If it’s clear that territory with the Philippine military looking on helplessly, tbe ecutive Officer Vivencio Dizon after meeting with President contents of the plan. Otherwise, the lesson plan technological tools will help them achieve that European Union demanding a stop to alleged virtual genocide Rodrigo Duterte about New Clark City, one of the big-ticket disguised as a war on drugs and threatening to withhold trade projects of BCDA under the Build Build Build infrastructure remains to be a plan and in paper only. goal, educators will use those tools. benefits, a rogue President Rodrigo Duterte vowing to program. The New Clark City will be the country’s first smart, The article further claims that, “From a time Schrum said the real world is not broken any representative of the International Criminal Court who green, and resilient metropolis in the country. down into discrete academic disciplines. I’ve might attempt to look into the allegations of extra-judicial when the primary ways to relay information were “’The planned developments in Clark will not only hap- verbal, via a blackboard or overhead projector, heard a number of teachers say that they would killings, and the usual horrible traffic and congestion of Metro pen very soon; they are already happening as we speak,’ Dizon said. to the current array of computers, tablets, flat like to be able to change the way they teach -- to “In a meeting at Malacaňang last April 4, Dizon reported screens and projectors – deciding what to select find ways to implement project-based, multidis- to President Rodrigo Duterte the construction progress at the can be complicated. Today there is a lot of focus ciplinary lessons. And then, she said, “Let’s think 9,450-hectare New Clark City…. about how that might happen when technology is “One of the components of New Clark City is the National on flat panels and projectors. However the big Government Administrative Center (NGAC) involving the dilemma isn’t which technology to select, but how used to support learning”. construction of back-up offices of various agencies to ensure to support the right visual environments that help She believes that in a technology-rich The Opinions expressed by our writers and continuous business operations and services in case of disasters teachers teach and students learn. Whether the classroom, students don’t “learn” technology. contributors do not in any way reflect the or natural calamities. The NGAC project broke ground last pedagogical style is sage on a stage, guide by the Technology merely provides the tools to be used opinion of the management of Fortune News January 23. “Phase 1A of NGAC also features the construction of side, flipped classrooms, display-based or con- for authentic learning. It is a means, not an end. Media Inc. world-class sports facilities to be used for the Southeast Asian structivist, getting everyone on the same page and Technology provides educators with the oppor- Fortune News Media Inc. Games in November 2019. It covers 40 hectares. Infrastruc- keeping focus are key components in supporting tunity to move from simply streamlining the way Publisher ture developer AlloyMTD, the Philippine unit of MTD Capital Berhad which won the bid to build the government hub, com- student comprehension”. things have always been done to really imagining Harvey Barkin mitted to finishing Phase 1A in time for the SEA Games… Regardless of the technology selected, the pa- things they would like to do. Editor-in-Chief “BCDA has tapped Budji+Royal Architecture+Design to per makes us understand the factors that impact So, teachers must determine how technol- design the New Clark City; the sports and residential facilities, Edwina Aniag as well as the government buildings at NGAC; and the new pas- student visibility and legibility of the display and ogy tools are used, and they must have a hand Vice President for Marketing and Operations senger terminal at the Clark International Airport… how to select screen size based on classroom size. in designing the staff development process that Gary De Guzman “Located in Central Luzon, New Clark City (NCC) is at a Whiteboards, somehow, are the best candidates trains them. Teachers are creative, intelligent Vice President for Community Relations confluence of industry and agriculture with existing infrastruc- in classroom support in order to get the right people, and once they learn to use technology in ture and connectivity to Manila and rest of the Philippines. Anchet Manosca With favorable location in the region and appropriate distance visual environment for technology to be effective their professional lives -- for keeping records, for Creative and Production Manager from , NCC is poised to become the next big and efficiently utilized in optimizing learning. creating documents, and for enhancing their own metropolis. learning -- they will soon discover the many ways Atty. Crispin Lozano So, it is being suggested that in today’s K-12 “Merging with nature, the heart of New Clark City is in which technology can enhance what they are Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis proposed to be a central park with business district wrapped classrooms, displays are used for a range of Ben Lou / Perry Diaz around it that has magnificent views of the hills. Served by educational purposes 50% or more of class time, doing with their students, maintains Schrum. Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko public transport, housing and industries form the other layers. ensuring that the technology is the optimal size In order to successfully infuse technology Columnists A network of open spaces forms the bond between diverse and quality is critical. into their classrooms, teachers must understand mixed use districts. A destination where nature, lifestyle and Macon Ramos-Araneta business, education, and industry converge into a global city Evaluating the merits of the suggestion, I the fact that learning to use the “gadgets” is an Corina Oliquino / Lara Climaco based on principles of sustainability.” think the author has the point because most of end in itself. They must provide much-needed Daniel Llanto With due respect to my friend Greg, whose word I will the time, students are visual in nature and they leadership to find the best ways of using technol- Correspondents take without reservation, is New Clark City a pipe dream or always appreciate things they see vividly and ogy to enhance teaching and learning. They must a reality? Won’t this be another press release project and a Ann Gauna monument to incompetence similar to the light trail transit experience it accordingly. expect and demand the best and most interesting Marketing Associate system in Metro Manila? Will voracious parties not gorge Giving another practical example as to a software to enhance their educational goals. They themselves on the financial opportunities available, based on Jho Bule person’s religiosity, we can identify a practicing must be included in planning the technology the “Weather-weather” principle? Will the projects continue implementation -- and be encouraged to experi- Photographer beyond the term of Duterte and his appointed technocrats or religious individual from a religious in name only by their thoughts and their deeds. We can even ment with the available tools. Glenda Bule will they be co-terminus with his presidential tenure? Will Event Coordinator the contracts with foreign investors be scuttled by the next appreciate better a person possessing a tattered Again, it boils down to teachers educating administration, continuing a tradition of on again, off again, and worn-out Bible from that with a beautifully themselves on how to best use those tools to start-stop, start-stop infrastructure milking cows that has left FilAm Star is published weekly the Philippine behind the rest of Asia? kept and untouched Bible displayed in a corner enhance teaching and learning. We must chal- by Fortune News Media Inc. Greg had a ready and convincing response to all of my of his or her house. The former suggests he or she lenge ourselves, our students, our administrators, www.filamstar.com concerns. But I will not repeat them because I subscribe to the is reading the Bible and putting into action what and policymakers to help all teachers make the Headquarters: axiom, “The proof of the pudding is in the eating.” best use of the technology tools available to them But New Clark City is truly a lighted candle in what over- he or she reads compared to the latter who just 1028 Mission St., 2/F, seas Filipinos and skeptical Europeans and Americans perceive displayed the book and never reads at all. because technology, per se, doesn’t optimize San Francisco, CA 94103; as a Duterte Darkness. Again, The Journal may have the merit of the teaching and learning! Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 The Good Book decrees that such a candle should not be suggestion considering that in a technology-rich (For feedbacks, comments… please email the hidden under a bushel basket. Email: [email protected] ([email protected]) classroom, students don’t “learn” technology. author @ [email protected]). May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star A7 MALACANANG SAYS CHINA a mockery of their sacrifices that the Duterte gov- WHITE HOUSE, SOME lapdog.” ... FROM PAGE A1 ernment has chosen to continue to be subservient ... FROM PAGE A1 “Militarily, in the short term, we should fast to Chinese interests in the face of the country’s track the implementation of the EDCA, and en- courage freedom of navigation patrols by the U.S. and Russia to provide help to the Philippines, un- biggest security threat,” Hontiveros said. and long-term consequences.” Sanders did not say “Where is now the bravado of the so-called what those consequences would be. and other allies. In the medium term, we should like western nations that impose their policies. strengthen our security alliances with the U.S., strongman? Our soldiers in the West Philippine Foreign Affairs Sec. Alan Peter Cayetano said Anders Corr of The Journal of Political Risk Japan, Australia and the ASEAN and continue our said, “It threatens in the future to constrict Phil- Sea have been threatened with missiles, yet the the Philippines was taking the report of new missile installations seriously and was verifying the infor- Armed Forces of the Philippines modernization.” ippines access to the outside world,” he told a TV commander-in-chief’s response is still pro-China? mation. Diplomatically, Trillanes said the country news forum. What kind of leadership is this?” she added. should re-assert its victory in the Arbitral tribunal. At Malacañang, Roque acknowledged the He said the DFA has already coordinated with Earlier this week, Beijing confirmed that the Defense Department, National Security Adviser And initiate a regional security summit to raise potential security threat but said: “You can’t ig- it has indeed installed missiles in the Spratly Jr., and the National Intelli- international awareness on the WPS situation. nore the fact that because of very good relations, islands but maintained that the move “targets gence Coordinating Agency. Another opposition senator, Francis Pangilinan, no one.” The Chinese army installed anti-ship we can be confident that China as a country does Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque ex- said he will support a senate probe on the issue. and air-to-air defenses on outposts claimed by not view us as a threat and there is no reason they pressed confidence that the missiles were not aimed “Yes we do. We have said this publicly several the Philippines and three other Southeast Asian will use it on us.” at the Philippines. months back. The Department of Foreign Affairs, countries. The new Chinese missiles were report- He also denied that the latest Chinese actions “We are concerned with the reported China’s the Department of National Defense and the AFP edly deployed on Fiery Cross Reef, Subi Reef and were a betrayal of its previous promise to the missile deployments over the contested areas in the top brass should all be present,” also said Pangili- Mischief Reef. Philippines. WPS,” said Roque. nan, Liberal Party president. The “listless and weak” response of the Phil- Hontiveros slammed the statements and said “But with our recently developed close rela- On the other hand, Akbayan Sen. Risa Hon- tiveros decried the Duterte government’s “sheep- ippine government to this, opposition Sen. Risa these remarks were to be expected from China’s tionship and friendship with China,” Roque said, ish response” to China’s installation of missiles in Hontiveros said, is an “insult” to the bravery and “fifth column,” a group of people which under- they “are are confident that those missiles are not mines a nation in favor of another country. She directed at us.” Philippine reefs in the West Philippine Sea. sacrifices of the Filipino soldiers, and an “abdica- Hontiveros raised three key points: “First, the wondered if it was already the policy of the gov- He assured the public that the government tion” of its duty to protect the safety of Filipinos, government must court and mobilize international especially fishermen. ernment to allow superpowers to install missiles would explore all diplomatic means to address the issue. public opinion to our side by filing a strong diplo- Hontiveros said despite the lack of resources in the country’s backyard for as long as they were The South China Sea — which sits between matic protest faithful to the ruling of the United and infrastructure, Filipino soldiers stationed in not directed at the Philippines. Nations Arbitral Tribunal,” Foreign Affairs Sec. Alan Peter Cayetano Vietnam, the Philippines, China and several other the areas facing the South China Sea had bravely countries — is subject to a myriad of competing ter- “Second, the government must develop a said Manila is hoping to ease the tension before maintained the country’s presence in the region ritorial claims. coherent, consistent and progressive foreign policy. it could further rise by seeking a multilateral ap- and ensured the integrity of the Philippine terri- But in recent years, China has upped the ante, The Kuwait crisis and the threat of Chinese missiles tory. proach to the security problem towards forging a seizing islets and atolls in the face of protests and demand that we employ real foreign affairs experts “It is thus, a grave insult to our soldiers and code of conduct among the involved parties. bellicose warnings. who can craft and implement a foreign policy that Beijing reasserted its right to build “defense” is resolute but adaptable, strategic and pragmatic, PLDT CHALLENGES Lourdes Rausa-Chan, PLDT’s corporate secre- facilities in the disputed region but declined to con- amiable yet patriotic, especially in handling our ter- ritorial disputes. ... FROM PAGE A1 tary, said in a letter to the Philippine Dealing firm reports it had installed new missiles on artificial and Exchange Corp. last January 17. This was the islands it had built. It sees the area as key to pushing Lastly, she said it is paramount that the admin- istration upgrades our naval defenses with strategic basis for the subsequent motion for reconsidera- its defenses beyond China’s coast and securing oil compliance orders this year but PLDT has taken naval vessels and equipment to better secure the tion filed. supply routes. it a step further by challenging DOLE in court country’s and territories. after exhausting administrative remedies. While Bello dismissed the for lack of Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said President Rodrigo Duterte should leverage his warm In the House, lawmakers condemned the instal- The compliance order on PLDT to regularize merit, the final and executory order now ques- personal relationship with Chinese leaders to con- lation of missiles on territory claimed by the Philip- 7,306 workers became final and executory after tioned in court covers only 35 contractors and pines. their officers that have been banned from the vince them to stop militarizing the illegally claimed Labor Sec. Silvestre Bello III dismissed on April islands of the West Philippine Sea. ACT Teachers Party-list Reps. Antonio Tinio contracting business. Unpaid benefits were also 24 the motion for reconsideration of the com- He also said the President can serve as a and France Castro demanded the Duterte admin- reduced to PHP 51.6 million because some of the pany and its contractors, DOLE disclosed on its peacemaker and get all major powers to de-escalate istration assert the country’s claims over Kalayaan website last May 3. contractors had already settled their dues. the tension in the area and prevent it from being a group of islands and to enforce the July 2013 Inter- According to local news reports, PLDT raised Out of some 40 PLDT contractors audited flashpoint. national Tribunal for the Law of the Sea decision the case to the Court of Appeals on May 2, a day by DOLE, only these were declared as legitimate: “Now that positive steps are under way to favoring the Philippines. after President Rodrigo Duterte signed an execu- Customer Frontline Solutions, Pro Tek Telecoms de-nuclearize the Korean Peninsula, the same must “We demand immediate withdrawal of the mis- tive order on “endo” also known as “555” in refer- Support, SL Temps; St. Clair Security and In- prevail in the WPS. We cannot defuse tension in one siles and the dismantling of Chinese bases in Philip- ence to employers’ practice of letting workers go vestigation, and Trigold Security & Investigation place in Asia only to heighten it in another,” said pine territories. We also demand President Duterte to protect the sovereignty of our country, stress our after five months and then rehiring them for suc- Agency. Recto. claims in the West Philippine Sea and enforce the ceeding five-month periods in order to avoid their Executive Order (EO) 51 signed by Duterte Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV on Monday said he on May 1 prohibits “contracting or subcontract- will seek a senate investigation on Chinese leaders July 2013 ITLOS decision,” Tinio added. regularization, which is mandated by law after six Magdalo Party-list Rep. Gary Alejano said the ing, when undertaken to circumvent the worker’s militarizing the illegally-reclaimed islands in the months of employment. actions and continuous aggression of China in the right to security of tenure, self-organization and West Philippine Sea (WPS). DOLE’s order against PLDT initially involved West Philippine Sea are obviously threats to our 8,720 workers, 45 contractors used to hire these collective bargaining, and peaceful concerted “Yes, the resolution in relation to reported mis- sile installation and overall militarization by China national security. workers, and monetary claims amounting to PHP activities pursuant to the 1987 Philippine Con- of the WPS is still being drafted,” said Trillanes. “I call on the Duterte administration to wake up 77.5 million in back wages and unauthorized stitution.” It authorizes the labor secretary to from its long doze, silence and inaction. Let us not “declare activities which may be contracted out” Earlier, the opposition senator said, “We, as a deductions, based on the agency’s announcement nation, should be alarmed by China’s militarization let China’s sweet talk of investments and loans lull and to affirm compliance orders which “shall in July last year. PLDT has 91 contractors but of the WPS.” us into a false sense of security. Their actions clearly be immediately executory unless restrained by those charged are 35 that “do not have a substan- However, he noted that President Rodrigo belie their pronouncements,” Alejano, an opposition tial capital as the employees use the principal’s an appropriate court.” Employees covered by a Duterte “continues to invite China in by being its lawmaker, said. equipment and tools in the performance of the DOLE compliance order who are dismissed by outsourced services” while others violated oc- the employer are automatically deemed regular- 6 OUT OF 10 Pulse Asia survey reads. cupational safety and health standards by, for ized. This means they will be entitled to back ... FROM PAGE A1 It said only 27 percent are supportive of Fed- instance, failing to provide adequate personal wages whether they report for work or not, if the eralism, while six percent are ambivalent on the protective equipment such as harnesses, hard compliance order is upheld. to the rise of opposition in Metro Manila (59 per- matter. hats and safety shoes, DOLE documents show. Organized labor groups have twitted the EO cent), Balance Luzon (71 percent), Mindanao (58 Moreover, Pulse Asia noted that knowledge PLDT and its contractors appealed the ruling for failing to completely outlaw contractualiza- percent) and the rising opposition from Class ABC levels about the Constitution have not changed since before Bello, who last January 10 reduced the tion, which Malacañang says is not within the (61 percent) and Class D (48 percent). the last survey in July 2016. number of workers ordered to be regularized President’s powers as such requires legislation. The survey also revealed that one of four Pinoys In a news statement, Malacañang through Presidential Spokesman Harry Roque said the poll to 7,416 and the monetary liability to PHP 66.3 Senate President has prom- or 23 percent is supportive of amending the Consti- findings show that the government has a lot of work million from PHP 78.2 million, according to the ised to prioritize “the law on endo” once Congress tution now. resumes sessions on May 15. Employers have However, the public support for charter change to do to inform, educate and reach out to Filipinos telco giant’s disclosure to the Philippine Stock regarding Constitutional reforms. strongly opposed what they consider “the popu- declined by 14 percentage points from 37 percent in Exchange. “This implies there is still a lot of work to be “The resolution did not address the fun- list prejudice against contracting,” arguing that July 2016, with only 13 percent are ambivalent on the matter. done by the government in informing, educating and damental jurisdictional and due process issues more flexibility on outsourcing would make the Moreover, the number of Filipinos aware of reaching out to our countrymen regarding constitu- raised by PLDT and 41 of its contractors in Philippines more competitive. proposals to amend the Constitution increased to 49 tional reforms,” Roque said. their appeals to the Office of the Secretary,” Ma. percent from 41 percent in July 2016. In a report by , the Consultative Com- Federalism and the Constitution mittee (Con-Com) is confident that more Filipinos AUSSIE NUN declares his love for Xi Jinping and prostrates The Pulse Asia survey also showed that a big will support amendments to the 1987 Constitution ... FROM PAGE A1 himself before the Chinese who are now installing majority of Pinoys or 72 percent of them know little/ once the Con-Com presents its proposals to the missiles in the Spratlys.,” said De Lima almost none/nothing at all about the proposed shift public. violates the rules of her visa. “But only a bully will pick on defenseless old to Federalism. “Once we are done and the proposed revisions The Melbourne, Australian native arrived in women while running away from bigger bullies,” Of the 71 percent, 43 percent have little knowl- are presented to the public, we are confident that the the Philippines as a member of the Sisters of Our added De Lima, referring to Duterte. edge, while 27 percent have almost no/no knowledge public perception will change,” the Con-Com said. Lady of Sion, a congregation of nuns founded in “I dare the President to use international at all about Federalism. The Committee also noted that the survey was conducted at “a time when it was still working on a France in 1847 and is renown for hiding Jews law and our victory in the International Arbitra- “Lack or absence of awareness is reported by draft federal constitution.” fleeing from Nazi persecution in World War II. tion Tribunal on the Law of the Seas against the most Filipinos across geographic areas and socio- Chinese interlopers in the Spratlys, instead of economic classes (62 percent to 79 percent and 64 “The survey was held from March 23 to 28, Fox, a former lawyer by profession before three months after President Rodrigo Duterte ap- picking on Sis. Fox. The PNoy Administration percent to 75 percent, respectively),” Pulse Asia becoming a nun, said she has been educating pointed the Committee’s members,” Rappler report landless Filipino farm hands and factory workers worked hard for that decision. Duterte should use noted. The survey also found that only 29 percent reads. about their rights. it against China the same way he uses an obscure of Pinoys have a great deal or sufficient amount of The Committee also disputed how the results Fox said she apparently angered the Presi- BI operations order against harmless foreigners,” were interpreted by Pulse Asia, stating that respon- said the former justice secretary. knowledge about the issue while only 7 percent said dent after she joined a fact-finding mission in they have a great deal of knowledge on Federalism dents who said, “No, the Constitution should not She noted that selective defense of our April to investigate alleged abuses against farm- and 22 percent have sufficient knowledge on the be amended now but it may be amended sometime national sovereignty against foreign intervention ers, including killings and evictions by soldiers matter. in the future,” should be considered as in favor of fighting guerrillas in the southern Philippines. is nothing but vintage Duterte hypocrisy that can “Thirty-six percent of Filipinos expressed op- charter change. “I gave a solidarity statement saying the so- only come from a “spineless leader.” position on the altering of the system of government, “To their mind, the future could be in 2019 cial teachings of the Catholic Church say you have She said the President should grow a back- regardless of the timing of such change, while 30 – when the proposed revisions may be ready for the right to unionize, you have the right to just bone. “It does not hurt to stand up to actual for- percent are opposed to it now but may be open to submission to them in a plebiscite,” the Committee wages, you have the right to security of tenure,” eign threats to the country every once in a while.” changing to a federal government in the future,” the added. she said. She related that government regulations Detained Sen. Leila de Lima accused Duterte are always enforced with a sense of proportions, U.S. OPEN TO after he was expelled. of acting like a 5-year old child who has just been aside from plain common sense. ... FROM PAGE A1 Both Villa and Cayetano have apologized to given a new toy every time he points out that “Kicking out foreigners like Sis. Fox who Kuwait but the Foreign Secretary continues to “The BI Operations Order used for deporting Sr. helped Filipino communities and defend their hu- Former Ambassador Jun Lozada suggested that defend the rescue operations and the uploading of Patricia Fox was signed by me.” man rights, instead of standing up to the Chinese the Philippines tap the as a third party the videos. “He just cannot get enough of the irony. It’s who displace Filipinos from their sources of mediator to bring an end to the diplomatic crisis Vice-president Leni Robredo expressed disap- pointment over the government’s failure to resolve a lame excuse that he wants to repeat again and livelihood and territorial waters, is not only out with Kuwait. the diplomatic crisis. again to justify his pathetic action of deporting a of proportions; it is a mindless application of the Foreign Affairs Sec. Alan Peter Cayetano, under “We are gravely concerned that recent actions law, as mindless as only the Duterte government fire for condoning the uploading of the videos, said harmless old woman. He uses political interven- taken by the administration, particularly the deliber- tion of foreigners as his justification, even as he can be,” she further stated. talks between the two countties were bearing fruit. “The hard work of our people in the embassy ate release in both media and social media of videos are bearing fruit,” said Cayetno, not providing fur- of ‘rescue missions’ undertaken by the Department ANGER, DISMAY, SUPPORT port this agreement.”-- Secretary- ther details. of Foreign Affairs personnel in the Kuwait, have ... FROM PAGE A1 General Antonio Guterres Cayetano also said about 800 Filipino workers created a diplomatic challenge that could further ‘Bold decision’ staying in shelters in Kuwait would be repatriated. jeopardize our workers in that country,” she said. international community, we will preserve this “Israel fully supports President Trump’s bold A row between the two countries broke out after She said over 260,000 overseas Filipino work- nuclear deal.”-- European Union diplomatic chief decision today to reject the disastrous nuclear the Department of Foreign Affairs uploaded a video ers (OFWs) stand to lose their jobs in Kuwait, and Federica Mogherini deal with the terrorist regime in Tehran.”-- Israeli of Philippine Embassy staff rescuing distressed the capacity of the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait to ‘Regret’ Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Filipino workers in Kuwait, a move that the Kuwaiti protect those who remain may be compromised as they deal with the serious strain in our diplomatic “France, Germany and the UK regret the US Support from Saudi government saw as a violation of its sovereignty. relations with the Kuwaiti government as a result of decision to leave the JCPOA. The nuclear non- “The kingdom supports and welcomes the It expelled Philippine Ambassador Renato Villa, steps announced by the US president toward arrested four embassy staff involved in the rescues, the incident. proliferation regime is at stake. We will work “Decisive steps must be taken at the soonest withdrawing from the nuclear deal... and rein- and issued warrants of arrest for three diplomats collectively on a broader framework, covering time to rectify this situation, and prevent further nuclear activity, the post-2025 period, ballistic stating economic sanctions against Iran.”--Saudi who are holed up in the embassy. The videos, which angered the Kuwait govern- harm from being inflicted on our OFWs. These must activity and stability in the Middle East, notably Arabia’s foreign ministry ment, showed a woman running from a home and start with an honest and candid acknowledgment of Syria, Yemen and Iraq.”-- French President Em- ‘Misguided’ the crisis, a willingness to accept accountability and “The reality is clear. The JCPOA is working... jumping into a waiting vehicle while another depicts manuel Macron, on Twitter, referring to the Iran a person sprinting from what looks like a construc- a conviction to do what is right,” she added, That is why today’s announcement is so misguid- deal by its formal name, the Joint Comprehensive tion site and then speeding off in a black sport utility ed... I believe that the decision to put the JCPOA Plan of Action vehicle. Compliance at risk without any Iranian violation of the deal is Anger at the unauthorized operations added “I call on other JCPOA participants to abide a serious mistake.”-- former US president Barack fuel to a boiling diplomatic row between the two na- fully by their respective commitments under the Obama, whose administration brokered the 2015 tions sparked by the murder of a Filipino maid. JCPOA and on all other member-states to sup- deal. (AFP) Villa returned to the Philippines Wednesday A8 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 business & Nestle pays $7.15 billion to sell Starbucks products Swiss food giant Nestle collaborate on “innovation and “Nestle has once again tech news announced Monday it will pay go-to-market strategies”, it said. surprised the market with an $7.15 billion in cash for the ‘Historic deal’ unexpected transaction,” Jean- global rights to market Starbucks Starbucks president and Philippe Bertschy of Vontobel products outside of the com- CEO Kevin Johnson hailed the said in a research note. Itama po natin! pany’s coffee shops. deal as “historic” and said it He said that “coffee is one The agreement gives Nestle, would create a “global coffee of the key growth pillars in the which owns the Nescafe and alliance”. CEO’s strategy, (and) allows BEN LOU Nespresso brands, a strong Nestle, which has been un- Nestle to gain scale in the US, a platform for continued growth der intense shareholder pressure weak spot so far.” in North America, the company to improve its profitability, has He acknowledged that “the said in a statement. begun to reposition itself since price might appear expensive, Q: Why do apartment applications treat you like you applying Nestle is focusing on coffee Schneider took over at the start but given the returns, the deal for a loan? as a main growth area and has of last year. could exceed the cost of capital A: If you are looking for an apartment these days, be ready within three to four years”. for a credit and background check. They do not want to rent to ‘Makes sense’ problem tenants. They want small families if they even allow Jon Cox with Kelper families. Most apartments want singles to rent so they can preserve Cheuvreux also said he though the apartments. The more people live in it, the more the chances the deal “makes sense”, both for the place can be a wreck. At the same time, apartment owners or Nestle and Starbucks. management cannot discriminate against anyone who is qualified “It gives critical scale to rent. There are rules protecting tenants from being discriminated upon. If you feel you have to Nestle in coffee in North been wronged, you can contact the Department of Housing and Urban Development in your America, but also gives it a major local area. platform in terms of roast and If a landlord refuses to rent to you after running a background check, then these are your ground coffee, a segment where rights according to the law: it hasn’t been traditionally,” he told AFP in an email. • The landlord must give you notice orally, in writing or via email. At the same time, he • The notice must contain the contact information for the company that supplied the (Photo: www.profit.pakistantoday.com.pk) said, Nestle “has the distribu- information why you are being denied tenancy. tion reach to push Starbucks • The notice must inform you of your rights to correct any inaccuracy in the information already made some acquisitions The former head of German products through global grocery and to get a free copy of the report within 60 days of landlord’s decision. in the sector. healthcare group Fresenius has channels everywhere. This is You should also get a copy of your free credit report on your own so that any inaccuracy The Starbucks business pushed for the food giant to fo- probably what Starbucks itself can be disputed before your application. covered by the deal currently cus in on a few areas, like bottled lacked.” Ating lesson, Ang record ay ingatan nang walang pagsisihan. generates around $2 billion sales water, infant nutrition and pet “I presume Nestle will be At Debt Aid Consulting, we pride ourselves with providing only Federal Trade Commission annually and includes coffee care, with coffee a top priority. looking to drive sales growth compliant programs. Our programs are here to help you get out of debt sooner than later and beans and ground coffee that While Nestle’s Nespresso pretty aggressively.” we do not send your information outside of the country. Nestle will be selling in super- and other coffee products are The transaction, which If you need help in getting out of payday loans, or any other unsecured debts, call Debt Aid markets around the world. omnipresent in Europe, they needs approval from regulators, Consulting. We have free Credit Repair while and after your program. We do not use call cen- “This transaction is a signifi- have had a harder time catching should be finalised by the end of ters which keeps your information safe. We have a new program that reconstruct debts for half cant step for our coffee business, on in the United States. 2018, Nestle said, adding that of what you would pay our competitors. We also provide legal assistance that keeps collectors Nestle’s largest high-growth Over the past 15 months, the deal should start making a away. We take Federal Credit Unions, Military Debts, Payday loans and high interest personal category,” said Nestle CEO Mark the company has clearly set its positive contribution to its earn- loans in our program too. This is exclusively available for Debt Aid Consulting clients. None of Schneider in a statement. sights on high-end coffee brands ings per share and its growth our competitors provide this program. You are well protected. “Both companies have true in North America. It snapped up targets starting next year. passion for outstanding coffee a majority share in - The company saw its shares We only provide Federal Trade Commission compliant programs. Debt relief companies and are proud to be recognised based Blue Bottle Coffee last close 1.6 percent higher at 77.56 who charge non refundable upfront fees are in violation of the ban. Go with Debt Aid Consult- as global leaders for their re- September, and two months Swiss francs a piece, as the Swiss ing! sponsible and sustainable coffee later bought Texas company stock exchange’s main SMI index Do not fall for marketing gimmicks saying that they have the right program for you. Most sourcing,” he said. Chameleon Cold Brew. was up just 0.8 percent. marketing companies only have one program and will enroll you in that program whether it fits The deal does not include At the same time, Nestle Starbucks, meanwhile, said you or not. So beware! any of Starbucks’ coffee shops has been selling off parts of its it will use the cash to accelerate Ben Lou at your service! I have over 30 years of real financial experience. If you would like and cafes. confectionary business, hand- share buybacks. The Seattle- sound financial advice, call us at Debt Aid Consulting. We do not use call centers like Financial Around 500 Starbucks staff ing over its US candy business based company said it now Rescue. No one has the right to put your information at risk. Say no to LLC corporations in will join Nestle, the company earlier this year to Italy’s Ferrero expected to return some $20 Canada! Debt Aid Consulting is the first and only Filipino debt restructuring company incorpo- said, but the operations would for nearly $3.0 billion. billion to shareholders through rated in the US and Canada. continue to be located in Seattle. Analysts hailed Monday’s buybacks and dividends by Now serving the Caribbean Islands! Both companies would deal. 2020. (AFP) Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at tutulungan po namin kayo. Itama po natin ang mali! U.S. manufacturing firms expect higher prices from tariffs: ISM Nearly three fourths of corporate earnings reports also companies and 64 percent of American manufacturing firms reported seeing rising costs, and services firms have struggled to and half of services companies were planning to increase prices hire in the past six months. expect the tariffs imposed by to consumers. ISM reported that about the US and China will increase In its semi-annual economic half of the manufacturers had prices, and a large share expect forecast released Monday, ISM raised wages, compared to just a supply disruptions, according to said 74 percent of manufactur- third of services firms. an survey released Monday. ing companies and 50 percent The survey showed firms The threats and counter- of services firms believed the in both sectors were generally threats of tariffs on tens of tariffs would “raise the price of upbeat about their prospects for billions of dollars in exports the goods that you produce and continued growth this year. exchanged between the United deliver to your customers.” “However, finding and on- States and China, as well as Manufacturers expect an boarding qualified labor and be- between the United States and average price hike of 5.4 percent, ing able to pass on raw material Europe, have rattled financial while the services firms put the price increases will ultimately markets in recent weeks due to figure at just over seven percent, define manufacturing revenues the fear they could spark a trade the survey showed. and profitability,” said Timo- war that would derail the global Meanwhile, close to 60 thy R. Fiore, chair of the ISM economic recovery. percent of firms in both sectors Manufacturing Business Survey And Washington does not expect “delays and disruptions” Committee. appear to be much closer to a in their supply chain due to the However, there was a sharp solution after a high-level US tariffs. decline in the share of firms delegation ended two days of This too could lead to price expecting to increase capital talks in Beijing last week without increases and companies have expenditures this year, com- announcing any breakthroughs. already been complaining about pared to the December survey. Companies surveyed by the logjams in deliveries, in part be- That could be a reflection of Institute for Supply Manage- cause of the lack of truck drivers. the uncertainty over the trade ment had been reporting rising Companies around the disputes, which business have prices for the past two months, country have reported difficul- warned could hurt growth this including sharp spikes in steel ties finding workers to fill open year. (AFP) and aluminum. positions and this survey showed And many executives in 78 percent of manufacturing PH dollar reserves continued slow decline in April The Philippines’ dol- external debt based on original Monetary Board member lar reserves continued to dip maturity and 4.1 times based on Felipe Medalla had also said slightly in April as the central residual maturity.” that the central bank can afford bank spent more hard currency Persistent dollar outflows to expend as much has $20 bil- to stabilize the volatile peso dampened the flow of capi- lion worth of dollar reserves to and the national government tal into the country in recent satisfy the current trend. paid off some foreign debt, the months due largely to rising Aside from the BSP’s for- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas interest yields abroad as central eign exchange operations and said on Monday. banks of developed nations government debt repayments, In a press statement, BSP raised interest rates after the the month-on-month decline in Governor Nestor Espenilla the reserve level was triggered Jr. stressed that the country’s by revaluation adjustments $80.1 billion in gross inter- on the BSP’s gold holdings national reserves at the end resulting from the decrease in of April served as an “ample the price of gold in the interna- liquidity buffer” for long-term tional market. investors repatriating funds to These were partially tem- their home countries and fund pered by the BSP’s income from managers moving “hot money” its investments abroad and the to achieve better yields over- (Photo: www.ibtimes.ph) national government’s foreign seas. currency deposits. The April 2018 dollar re- decade-long “quantitative eas- Meanwhile, net inter- serve level is slightly lower than ing” binge. national reserves, the differ- the $80.5 billion recorded at Espenilla, insisting that ence between the BSP’s gross the end of March. there is enough buffer to meet reserves and total short-term “At this level, the [dollar the dollar requirements of exit- liabilities, likewise decreased reserves are] equivalent to 7.8 ing fund managers, EARLIER by $500 million to $80 billion months’ worth of imports of pointed out that the Philippines’ as of end-April 2018 from the goods and payments of services current gross international end-March 2018 level of $80.5 and primary income,” Espenilla reserve levels are still double billion. (Daxim L. Lucas/ in- said. “It is also equivalent to 5.5 the pre-global financial crisis quirer.net) times the country’s short-term numbers. May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star A9 world news Trump set to announce Iran sanctions move that may kill nuclear deal Turkey court rules to keep U.S. pastor in detention President Donald Trump signalled they might seek to ter Heiko Maas warned the will confirm on Tuesday wheth- rapidly restore the enrichment accord’s collapse could spark A US pastor denied spying PKK terror organisation. I have court ruling, saying: “It is unac- er he will make good on a threat capabilities they surrendered “an escalation” in the region and terrorism charges Monday never supported them. ceptable to keep him in jail to re-impose US sanctions on under the deal, and European and stressed that Washington’s in a case that has strained ties “He claims PKK propa- solely based on secret witnesses’ Tehran and thereby throw the capitals fear Tehran may re- European allies think the deal between Ankara and Washing- ganda is being made in our testimony.” entire Iran nuclear deal into sume the hunt for a bomb. “makes the world a safer place.” ton, as a Turkish court ruled to Resurrection Church. Where US President Donald question. Tehran has long insisted it His French counterpart keep him in detention and set a are those pictures?” he told Trump tweeted last month the Trump’s announcement has no ambition to build nucle- Jean-Yves Le Drian, on a visit new hearing in July. the court in the town of Aliaga pastor was “fine gentleman” that a decision was imminent ar weapons, but the signatories to Berlin, said the agreement Andrew Brunson, head of a north of Izmir. who was on trial and being cut short a last-ditch European to the deal never believed them, is “the right way to stop Iran small Protestant church in the Another witness, Eyup Ca- prosecuted for “no reason”. diplomatic drive to save the ac- and supporters of the accord from getting access to nuclear western city of Izmir, faces up kir, claimed Brunson’s church But Turkish Foreign Min- cord ahead of what had been a have warned of a Middle East weapons” and “will save us from to 35 years in jail if convicted. resembled a “Kurdish camp” ister Mevlut Cavusoglu, who May 12 deadline. arms race if it fails. nuclear proliferation.” He has been in detention since and there had been regular will meet US counterpart Mike Trump had un- Sunset clauses October 2016. prayers for Kurdish fighters in Pompeo in Washington in the til Saturday to decide Under the land- Turkish prosecutors accuse Syria. coming days, said Brunson’s whether to renew a mark nuclear pact, Iran Brunson of links to a group waiver on one package agreed to scale back led by US-based Muslim of US sanctions target- nuclear enrichment preacher Fethullah Gulen ing Iran’s oil sector that and put its program -- who Ankara says was had been lifted as part under international behind a failed 2016 coup of Washington’s com- supervision in return for -- and the Kurdistan Work- mitment under the 2015 international sanctions ers’ Party (PKK). deal. relief. Both the Gulen move- “I will be announc- Trump has consis- ment and the PKK are ing my decision on the tently complained about banned by Turkey as terror Iran Deal tomorrow from the agreement, reached groups. the White House at 2:00 President Donald Trump under Obama, citing as Brunson, who has pm (1800 GMT),” the (Photo:www. theamericanconservative.com) its shortcomings certain lived and worked in Turkey president said in a tweet. clauses such as the for over two decades, is The president may now And they are skeptical that “sunset” provisions lifting some also accused of espionage also decide to announce the Trump’s administration has a nuclear restrictions on Tehran for political or military fate of the rest of Washington’s back-up plan to restrain Iranian from 2025. purposes. Andrew Bunson nuclear-related sanctions, ambitions once he has made In an attempt to salvage When the prosecu- (Photo:www. christianpost.com) which are covered by different good on his campaign promise the deal, French President Em- tor said Brunson should waivers, and effectively under- to tear up a deal endorsed by manuel Macron has pushed to remain in jail, the pastor tear- “If we were PKK sym- case was solely in the hands of mine the entire accord, reached his predecessor Barack Obama. extend its scope to address this fully told the court: “What more pathisers there would be no the judiciary. between Tehran and six world Britain’s Johnson, who issue, as well as Iran’s missile should I say? I want to return to Turks attending our church,” Turkish-US relations are powers. was in Washington to lobby capabilities and its role in the my home!” Brunson said. already strained over American European leaders and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo region. The judge agreed with the ‘Wild conspiracies’ backing for a Kurdish militia diplomats -- including Britain’s and Vice President Mike Pence, Iran’s support for Syrian prosecution’s view and set the In a sign of the importance in Syria which Turkey says is Foreign Secretary Boris John- told Fox News: “Plan B does not President Bashar al-Assad, the next trial hearing on July 18. of the case to Washington, linked to the PKK, as well as the son, who was in Washington on seem to be, to me, particularly Lebanese armed group Hez- ‘I reject all PKK allegations’ US embassy charge d’affaires jailing of two employees from Monday -- have been pleading well-developed at this stage.” bollah in Syria’s civil war and At Monday’s second Philip Kosnett as well as Sandra American missions in Turkey. with the United States to retain Given the multinational Shiite Huthi rebels in Yemen hearing in the trial, which got Jolley, vice chair of the US In September, President the core of what Trump called nature of the deal, nothing the have added to tension between underway on April 16, Brunson Commission on International Recep Tayyip Erdogan sug- the “flawed” accord. so-called EU three -- Britain, Tehran and Western powers. denied allegations made by a Religious Freedom, were pres- gested that Turkey could free Mixed signals France and Germany -- can do Iran’s President Hassan secret witness, named only as ent at Monday’s hearing. Brunson if Washington handed And even if, as now seems would allow them to rewrite it, Rouhani on Sunday issued a Serhat. Jolley told reporters she over Gulen, who lives in self- inevitable, Trump pulls Wash- but they have promised to work strong warning to the United The witness, who said he was seriously concerned by the imposed exile in Pennsylvania ington out of the agreement, on a powerful supplemental States not to quit the pact. was Christian and appeared via “wild conspiracies, tortured -- an offer brushed off by Wash- Britain, France, Germany, agreement. “If the United States leaves video link with his face blurred, logic, secret witnesses but no ington. Russia and China may decide US diplomats have been the nuclear agreement, you will suggested Brunson’s church evidence. Brunson is one of several to stay in and to urge Tehran to working furiously with their soon see that they will regret had been an intermediary for “Where is the evidence? American nationals caught maintain its own commitments. partners in the three countries it like never before in history,” the PKK and a place where PKK Where is the proof, investiga- up in the crackdown after the But if Trump’s decision to make this a reality, with Rouhani said. insignia were displayed. tion, the documentation?” she failed coup. raises the prospect of renewed measures to limit Iran’s ballistic He also vehemently reiter- He also alleged that asked. In February, NASA US sanctions on European firms missile program and regional ated his country’s opposition Brunson had forged “a plan to “Upon this rests a man’s scientist Serkan Golge, a dual and banks doing business with subversion. to curtailing its non-nuclear establish a Christian Kurdish life... We leave here with grave national, was jailed for seven- Iran, the accord itself will be in But so far, all signs point missile capabilities, insisting state in Iraq and Syria.” reservations about the future of and-a-half years for being a peril -- amid mixed signals from to Trump making good on his Tehran “will build as many mis- Brunson, wearing a black an innocent man.” member of Gulen’s movement Tehran. threat. siles and weapons as needed.” suit and white shirt, said: “I re- Brunson’s lawyer Cem in a conviction denounced by Some Iranian leaders have German Foreign Minis- (AFP) ject all the allegations about the Halavurt also protested the Washington. (AFP) North Korea frees three U.S. detainees ahead of Trump summit Three Americans detained scribed the release as “a gesture be a single day, but in the event in North Korea headed back of good will” and said he would that there is more to discuss, to the United States Wednes- be on hand when Pompeo’s there’ll be an opportunity for it day after being freed ahead of three “guests” land at Andrews to extend into the second day a summit between President Air Force Base outside Wash- as well.” Donald Trump and Kim Jong ington at 2:00 am (0600 GMT) The meeting will discuss Un. Thursday. North Korea’s nuclear and bal- Pyongyang granted the Trump acolytes declared listic weapons program, which three men “amnesty,” a US the men’s release an unbridled may soon give Pyongyang the official said, offering Trump a political victory, evidence, Vice capability of striking the conti- much-needed diplomatic victo- President Mike Pence said, nental United States. ry and removing the last major that “strong leadership and our Trump has demanded obstacle to a historic meeting America First policies are pay- that North Korea give up its between foes. ing dividends.” nukes, while Kim has offered “I am pleased to inform The development appears few indications about what he you that Secretary of State Mike to pave the way for a much- is willing to concede or what he Pompeo is in the air and on his anticipated summit between will demand in return. way back from North Korea Trump and North Korean North Korea has often with the 3 wonderful gentle- leader Kim, scheduled to take insisted that the United States men that everyone is looking so place within weeks. withdraw support for South forward to meeting. They seem “It was absolutely impera- Korea, where 30,000-plus US to be in good health,” Trump tive that the Trump Administra- military personnel are sta- tweeted. tion secure the release of the tioned. Two of the men, agricul- three Americans well before Since coming to office tural expert Kim Hak-song any summit,” said Jean Lee, an Trump has embarked on a cam- and former professor Tony analyst at the Wilson Center. paign of “maximum pressure” Kim were arrested in 2017, Trump spoke with his on the North Korean regime. while Kim Dong-chul, a South South Korean counterpart A series of provocative Korea-born American business- Moon Jae-in following the North Korean missile tests have man and pastor in his 60s, was release, telling him he expected been met with US sanctions and sentenced to 10 years’ hard it would positively affect the a tougher Chinese stance on labor in 2016. summit, according to the Blue cross border trade. The White House said all House. Officials in Washington three men were able to walk Seoul echoed that sen- believe the punitive economic unassisted onto a US Air Force timent, with Moon’s press measures have prompted fuel plane that carried them and the secretary predicting it would be shortages in North Korea and secretary of state out of North a “very positive factor” for the increased tension inside the Korea. talks’ success, in a statement regime. A second plane, with more cited by Yonhap news agency. North Korea official Kim robust medical equipment, Summit details to follow Yong Chul, who met Pompeo in waited for them at Yokota Air Trump says a time, date Pyongyang, insisted the coun- Force Base, just outside Tokyo. and location have been decided try’s openness to talks was “not “All indications are at for his historic summit with the result of sanctions that have this point that their health is Kim, although US officials say been imposed from outside,” as good as could be given that there is still some fine-tuning to but a change in regime focus. they’ve been held,” Pompeo told be done. “We have perfected our reporters traveling with him. The president told report- nuclear capability. It is our The family of Tony Kim ers the administration would policy to concentrate all efforts voiced their gratitude to “all announce the details “within into economic progress in coun- of those who have worked three days” but revealed it try,” he said. (AFP) toward and contributed to his would not be at the Demilita- return home” -- and specifically rized Zone that separates North thanking Trump for “engaging and South Korea. directly with North Korea.” Other possible locations “Mostly, we thank God for include Singapore. Tony’s safe return,” the family “I think that Chairman Kim said in a statement. “We ask is trying to set good conditions that you continue to pray for for the summit. I think we are the people of North Korea and having good conversations, pro- for the release of all who are ductive conversations,” Pompeo still being held.” said. Trump meanwhile de- “We’re planning on it will A10 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star B1 person of severe case of a rare medical condition and life threatening Virtualahan - a dreamer’s reality disorder. These two are scaling A -based so- with disabilities (PWDs) to use and of course, the Google to impact and empower People interest cial enterprise, Virtualahan, is become digital professionals Business Stories Award which with Disability in America and one of the three winners of the using Google platforms such is happening from May 8-11 of the Philippines. 2017 Google Business Stories as Google Classroom, GSuite, this week. Ryan is driven by a Award. Ryan Gersava, owner and Chrome in order to break mission to contribute to build- and founder, is currently here employment barriers that are ing the future of work where no in Silicon Valley to attend the usually the problems faced by one is left behind. 2018 Google’s Annual I/O De- PWDs. Virtualahan is also taking veloper Conference this week, Ryan Gersava, who is only it to the next level by branch- to receive tailored mentorship 25 yrs old and affected by an ing out. Starting up the same from mentors, talk about their incurable medical condition, is business model here in the US, work in Virtualahan, receive a Global Shaper, a fellow at the by putting up Virtualahan USA. and present their awards, and Global Good Fund, an Asia- Teaming up with another young represent The Philippines to the Pacific Future Maker. He is Fil-Am entrepreneur Vohn global tech community, with all also the recipient of the Lenovo Dumdumaya, 26 years old, born expenses paid and sponsored by Outstanding Tech Visionary and raised in NorCal who is Google. Award last year, awarded 25 currently based in Sacramento Virtualahan trains persons computers for the company’s IT CA. Vohn is also affected by

Ryan Gersava (Photo: www. techshake.asia) B2 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018

“Presentation of a proclamation designating May 10, 2018 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian & Pacific Island- Lucky winner takes home the Toyota Prius er Mental Health Day in San Mateo County. (L-R) Briana Evans, Sue Vuna, Atanacio Bayudan, Nicole Moreland, Milpitas, CA – Oh yes, it’s Francesca Lomotan, Ken Jew, Maria Martinez, Christi Morales-Kumasawa, San Mateo County Supervisor David real! We have a winner! J. Canepa, Silvia Tang, Stephanie Bolón, Ning Recio, Danny Boy Naha-Veelalu, Kristie Lui, Elise Sien Cabilata- Igmedio Usio, a resident zan)” of 1077 Topaz Ave. #16, San Jose, CA 95117, won one of the six Toyota Prius grand prize during Seafood City’s Mega anniversary celebra- tion this year at Landess Avenue this city. The raffle stub was drawn by former Milpitas Mayor Jose Esteves and City Councilmember Atty. Garry Barbadillo. The car keys were turned over by Mil- dred Smith, Seafood City’s Advertising Consultant, and the winner, together with his wife Ofelia, drove home their prized car. The newly-elected officers and Board members of Thomasians USA headed by its President, Joseph Usio said he dropped Palafox (sixth from left). The installation was presided by Rev. Arnold Zamora (seventh from left) only two raffle stubs. “Seguro during their 31st Alumni Homecoming last May 5 at Crowne Plaza in Millbrae . talagang nakatakda sa akin (L-R) Mildred Smith, Seafood City’s advertising consultant, Igmedio Usio, ng Panginoon ang kotse kasi the winner of the 2018 Toyota Prius, and former Milpitas mayor Jose dalawa lang ang inihulog Esteves kong stub. Sa dinamidaming stubs na nasa malaking tambiolo, isa sa aking tiket ang nabunot ni Mayor,” said Usio. The remaining six other cars will be drawn weekly in various Seafood City outlets in Califor- nia. – Elpidio R. Estioko

May Celebrant !!!! Happy Birthday to Joe Santos.

Congratulations to Huela Dominique Felix (left) and Laurenz David May Celebrant !!!! Felix (right) who received the sacrament of the Holy Eucharist last Happy Birthday to May 6 at Good shepherd Catholic Church in Elk Grove Tess Mendaros. May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star B3 community INC’s World Wide Walk is a smashing success By Don Orozco awareness Now we know why Philippine and from Europe to Australia as flag with the biblical golden meno- PG&E opens new wildfire safety operations center, marks California President Rodrigo Duterte insisted well as from most parts of Asia and rah in the middle as attested this on appointing INC Executive Min- the Caribbean Islands. It was such by Guinness Lucia Sinigagliesi Wildfire Awareness Week with $2 Million for fire safe councils ister Eduardo V Manalo as special a WOW event for members of the The LARGEST CHARITY SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — In of Electric Operations. Center staff also will work envoy for OFW’s (Overseas Filipino INC. WALK IN A SINGLE VENUE preparation for the 2018 wildfire The state-of-the-art Wildfire closely with fire agencies and Workers). The Iglesia Ni Cristo Aside from the Walk to fight The INC is still awaiting word season, Pacific Gas and Electric Safety Operations Center will oper- community partners to coordinate under the stewardship of Brother poverty the May 6 event was also from Guinness adjudicator from Company (PG&E) has opened its ate 24 hours a day, seven days a emergency response efforts. The Eduardo led its entire membership INC’s official attempt to establish all over the world if the title for new Wildfire Safety Operations week, primarily during wildfire sea- center will serve as PG&E’s on-the- the LARGEST CHARITY WALK Center. The center, which will be son, and will be operational at other ground communications hub and IN MULTIPLE VENUES and the staffed 24/7, will monitor potential times of the year as well, depending will partner with local government, MOST NATIONALITIES IN A fire threats across PG&E’s service on conditions. first responders, media and others CHARITY WALK would still have area in real time and coordinate It will be staffed with to provide advance and real-time to be verified. with first responders and public highly qualified individuals who are emergency response information to INC General Auditor and FYM safety officials to respond to any knowledgeable in electric opera- local communities. Foundation President, minister emerging threats and help keep tions, safety, engineering, meteo- California Wildfire Awareness Glicerio Santos Jr said that the communities safe. rology and other areas. Located Week victories of the Church was all The Wildfire Safety Operations at PG&E’s San Francisco head- In recognition of California for God’s glory. “Ang lahat ng ito Center is part of PG&E’s Com- quarters, its proximity to PG&E’s Wildfire Awareness Week (May ay awa at tulong ng Diyos. Kaya munity Wildfire Safety Program, Emergency Operations Center will 7-10), PG&E announced it will tayong Iglesia Ni Cristo, launched in March as an additional ensure close coordination across provide $2 million to local Fire Safe tayo na ibalik ang lahat ng kapuri- precautionary measure intended its wildfire safety operations and Councils in 23 counties for 30 proj- han,” he said. to reduce wildfire threats and emergency response teams. This ects that reduce wildfire risk and According to INC Spokesper- strengthen communities for the fu- coordination will include the pre- help keep communities safe. The son minister Edwil Zabala, “Led ture. Through the program, PG&E staging of PG&E crews and Wildfire funds will pay for fuel reduction, by its Executive Minister, Brother is bolstering wildfire prevention Response Teams to help keep emergency access and defensible Eduardo Manalo, the INC will and emergency response efforts, customers safe. space projects, as well as chipper from across the globe to partici- several records in coordination continue to uphold what the Bible putting in place new and enhanced The Wildfire Safety Op- days in local communities. This is pate in a mammoth event dubbed with the representatives from the teaches, including the command to safety measures, and doing more erations Center will work closely the fifth year PG&E has partnered as “Iglesia Ni Cristo: World Wide Guinness Book of World Records. love our fellowmen as we love our- over the long term to harden its with PG&E’s meteorologists with local councils on projects to Walk To Fight Poverty In Africa.” Thus INC was able to accomplish selves. All glory belongs to God.” electric system to help reduce wild- who monitor weather conditions reduce wildfire risk, providing over Picture this, the charity walk the following on that very same He also added there was a clean-up fire risks and to keep its customers and potential fire threats. PG&E $13 million since 2014. was participated in by millions of day: of the walk venues as soon after the safe. utilizes technologies including its The company also will con- people from across the globe with The LARGEST HUMAN event. “Extreme weather is increas- own weather monitoring stations tinue its daily aerial patrol program more than 300 sites across 18 time SENTENCE which involves INC’s Kudos to Duterte, the Filipino ing the number of wildfires and mounted strategically throughout to spot and speed response to zones. It was indeed “unbeliev- 23,235 participants and form the community from all over the world length of wildfire season in Califor- its service area. The team also wildfires. The patrols, which will able but true” this according to Dr sentence “PROUD TO BE A MEM- have found the best ally to take nia. We must continue to adapt to uses publicly available databases, start June 1 and continue through Serge Santos of the FYM Founda- BER OF IGLESIA NI CRISTO” care of our OFW’s in the person of meet the challenges created by this websites and emergency alert October, will occur over hundreds tion. From Aparri to Jolo in the The LARGEST PICTURE Eduardo V Manalo, INC Executive ‘new normal.’ Our Wildfire Safety systems from agencies such as CAL of miles of PG&E’s service area to Philippines and from the east coast MOSAIC formed by 9,000 INC Minister. (contact me @orozcoau- Operations Center is designed to FIRE, National Weather Service, assist state and local fire agen- to the west coast of North America members which shows the image of [email protected]) quickly identify and respond to National Oceanic and Atmospheric cies with early fire detection and and from the Middle East to Africa the Church’s green, white and red potential fire risks and work safely Association (NOAA), Caltrans, the response. The patrols will coordi- with fire agencies to reduce or Bay Area Regional Air Quality Con- nate with the new Wildfire Safety respond to the threat,” said Pat trol Board and local public safety Operations Center. Las Vegas team conduct​s​ ​two RP medical missions​ Hogan, PG&E senior vice president authorities. The Philippine American ASSOCIATION of Ne- vada spearheaded two medical missions in the Philip- pines early this year, an annual project organized by Danny C. Fabito, MD, FACS, FPCS, PAAN president and former President of the Association of Philippine Physicians in America. Co-sponsors of the missions were Phil-Am Char- ity Foundation(PACF) and the Nevada Chapter of the FEU-DNR-School of Medicine Alumni Foundation. The tandem 2018 annual medical missions in Alaminos, Laguna (Feb. 4-8), and at Kamay ni Hesus in Lucban, Quezon (Feb. 8-12) ministered to almost 2,000 patients,. The back-to-back missions provided surgical care (150 minor surgeries including circumcisions) and adult medical and pediatric care, distributing free medications and giving personal health education to the community people, patient by patient. Dr. Dan Fabito and Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS, chairman of the Filipino United Network-USA, led the team of 25 missionaries from various institu- tions, several of them PAAN members. Held annually, this project is funded by the mis- sionary volunteers of these two missions themselves,​ and ​this year ​supported by Mayor Loreto Masa of Alaminos, his wife, and his cousin, Mrs. Lily Stark- man​​ of Illinois, and Fr. Joey Faller, the Healing Priest at Kamay ni Hesus Pilgrimage Shrine. “Partnering with healthcare volunteers from different universities, and working as a team in this humanitarian endeavor to help our less fortunate fellowmen back home, provides a deep sense of inner RN, Rodrigo Farrales, MD, Elouisa Farrales, MD, Bert joy and satisfaction,” according to the missionaries. Galang, MD, Ruth De Peralta, MD, Gerry Reyes, MD, The medical missionaries included: Melinda A. Maria Salud, RN, Filemon Oligario, MD, Josie Olegario, Fabito, MD, Farida I. Chua, MD, Napoleon Santos, RN, Mark Panganiban, RN, Marissa Panganiban, RN, MD, Carolina Santos, RN, Rudy Almase, MD, Thelma Cynthia Deriquito, RN, Antonio and Angie Bolinao, Cepedes, MD, Zosimo Micabalo, MD, Luz Micabalo, Resty Lopez, and, Dante and Veronica Fontimayor, B4 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 legal & law Four women sue USOC, USA Taekwondo over sex trafficking Four women athletes accuse the US Olympic young female athletes to two adult sexual preda- Crime Involving Moral Turpitude (CIMT) effect Committee and USA Taekwondo of sex trafficking tors, the coach of USA Taekowndo and his own in a federal lawsuit, alleging they were forced to brother.” on good moral character determination train and travel with known sexual predators. The suit claims “in their shared lust for ‘med- Heidi Gilbert, Mandy Meloon, Amber Means als and money,’ the USOC and USA TKD have ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO and Gaby Joslin went to court Friday in Colorado sheltered Steven Lopez from prosecution because over what they called “two decades of sexual he delivers commercial riches.” abuse, exploitation and trafficking of Team USA’s Gilbert said Jean had sexually assaulted her It is very important that those applying for naturalization should Olympic taekwondo athletes by the entities, of- after events in Ecuador in 2002 and Germany in consult with an immigration attorney before filing an application ficials, coaches and mentors who were entrusted 2003. because USCIS is very strict in the determination of good moral to protect them”. The suit says women who wanted onto the character. In general, a noncitizen is statutorily barred from estab- The lawsuit cites former US Olympic tae- US taekwondo team “had no choice but to submit lishing good moral character if, during the time for which good moral kwondo coach Jean Lopez and his brother Steven, to the Lopez brothers’ sexual demands. If they character must be shown which is five years for naturalization, she is a two-time Olympic champion in the sport. refused to do so, they were benched, suspended convicted of or admitted committing a single CIMT. INA § 101(f)(3), The US Center for SafeSport issued Jean a or kicked off Team USA by the Lopez brothers, 8 USC § 1101(f)(3). If the conviction comes within the petty offense lifetime ban from all World Taekwondo events. the USOC and USA TKD.” or youthful offender exception to the inadmissibility ground, how- Steven has an interim restriction while his inves- In a statement to USA Today and the New ever, the person is not statutorily barred. tigation continues. York Times, USOC spokesman Patrick Sandusky What is Petty Offense Exception? Meloon, a two-time world champion, claimed said the organization “is deeply focused on sup- A. Generally a noncitizen who is convicted of, or formally admits committing, one CIMT in a 2007 complaint she was raped by Jean at the porting, protecting and empowering the athletes is inadmissible. A noncitizen can avoid being inadmissible under the moral turpitude ground, 1997 World Cup in Egypt when she was 15. She we serve”. however, by coming within the petty offense exception. The basic requirements are: (1) The non- was left off Jean’s 2007 squad, pressing her case He told the Times that several actions being citizen must have committed only one CIMT (ever); (2) The noncitizen must not have been “sen- to USOC arbitration. undertaken, including the launch of the US Cen- tenced to a term of imprisonment in excess of six months (regardless of the extent to which the “From at least 2007 onward, the USOC and ter for SafeSport, will “ensure that our athletes sentence was ultimately executed)” and (3) The offense must have a maximum possible sentence USA TKD have knowingly protected, empowered are better protected from these heinous acts”. of one year. and clothed Jean Lopez with the authority, le- USA Taekwondo said in a statement to the If you have a criminal records and may qualify for naturalization but for the offense you were gitimacy and trustworthiness of being the official newspapers that it has not had time to review the charged, it is advisable to discuss this matter to an immigration attorney. coach of Team USA’s taekwondo team and his details of the lawsuit and so “as this is an in-pro- Note: This is not a legal advice. brother Steven with being the superstar of USA cess legal matter it would be inappropriate for us SUCCESS STORIES taekwondo,” the suit said. to comment further at this time”. (AFP) 1. On April 18, 2018, we received a grant of waiver from Immigration Court for a husband “In doing so, they have exposed hundreds of and wife client who made a misrepresentation of their marital status but has no criminal records, has long residence and strong family ties in the U.S. 2. On April 12, 2018, the Immigration Judge in San Francisco approved a waiver of misrepre- Lawyer says Trump could defy potential subpoena in Russia probe sentation in applying for a visa for our client who have been in the U.S. for 26 years, no criminal Presidential lawyer Rudy Giuliani said Sun- Yet he listed a series of points suggesting the record and strong family ties in the U.S. day that Donald Trump would not be required Trump team has given considerable thought to 3. On April 3, 2018, we received an approval from USCIS for a U visa for a client who was a to comply with a potential subpoena from the the framework of a potential interview. victim of crime. special counsel investigating possible collusion Giuliani said he would want such testimony 4. For the month ending March 31, 2018, we received approvals for four naturalization ap- with Russia. plications. But Giuliani, whose statements since he 5. For the week ending March 31, 2018, we received approvals of six Adjustment of Status, recently joined Trump’s legal team have cre- two Application to Remove Condition on Residence and two Renewal of Green Card approvals. ated some confusion, also said that the president 6. On March 9, 2018, we received an approval from USCIS for adjustment of status for a cli- “wants to testify” and that “we may actually work ent who was abused by her spouse. The I-601 waiver was approved based on extreme hardship. things out with Bob Mueller,” the special counsel. 7. On February 15, 2018, we received a grant from Immigration Judge for a waiver of misrep- The former mayor and onetime resentation for a client who has been in the U.S. for long period of time. prosecutor was asked on ABC’s “This Week” 8. For the week ending February 9, 2018, we received approvals of one I-485, one N-400, whether Trump would comply with a subpoena if one I-90 and one I-751. Mueller were to issue one. 9. On January 12, 2018, we received an approval of immigrant visa at the U.S. Consulate “We don’t have to,” Giuliani replied. “He’s Manila for an alien who applied for I-601-A as one who entered as a seaman. the president of the United States. We can assert Rudy Giuliani 10. On January 10, 2018, we received an approval form USCIS of a self petition for abused the same privileges other presidents have.” (Photo: www.politico.com) spouse based on same sex marriage. President Bill Clinton had resisted a sub- 11. On January 3, 2018, we received an approval from the Immigration Court for a waiver of poena during the investigation of his relation- misrepresentation for a client who was charged with misrepresentation in marriage; ship with Monica Lewinsky, then a White House to be “only for two and a half hours. Only with an 12. On December 15, 2017, we received an approval from USCIS for an adjustment of status intern. But he ultimately testified for more than arranged format... (not) under oath. Only a Q&A. for same sex marriage for an applicant who entered without inspection but has Sec. 245 (i). two hours before a . We get the questions in advance.” 13. On November 16, 2017, we received an approval from Immigration Court for a waiver of When Giuliani was asked if he was confident “So,” he added, “we may actually work things misrepresentation for entering as single daughter of U.S. citizen but actually married. that Trump, should he appear before Mueller, out with Bob Mueller. Because working with him If you have immigration problems the Law Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a would not invoke his constitutional right under directly is good.” solution before your problem gets worse which could lead to deportation and family separation. the Fifth Amendment to remain silent, Giuliani But any such plan, he suggested, could be Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active member of the State Bar of California, the American responded, “How could I ever be confident of derailed depending on how the Mueller investiga- Immigration Lawyers Association and San Francisco Trial Lawyers Association. He specializes that? ... Every lawyer in America thinks he would tion proceeds. (AFP) in immigration law and personal injury. For free consultation email or call ([email protected] / be a fool to testify.” 1-877-456-9266)

Why filing a probate should not be delayed Last migrants from caravan camp By: Atty. Robert L. Ferris cross U.S.-Mexico border Although there is no time limit or statute of limitation to file a probate it is The last of a group of 228 Central American ers who do not present a flight or security risk usually not wise to delay the process. The longer a probate is delayed the greater migrants who had camped out on the US-Mex- must be given the right to a hearing,” he said. the likelihood that it will become more and more difficult to complete. Here is ican border after crossing Mexico in a caravan The Trump administration has warned that an example. Anna’s mother died in 2000 without a will or a trust. Anna’s father have entered the United States to request asylum, any migrants making false immigration claims died five years earlier. Anna was an only child and she continued to live in the activists said Friday. will be prosecuted. house owned by her deceased parents without probating her mother’s estate. The asylum-seekers were the most visible The caravan is an annual tradition dating In 2008 Anna died unexpectedly and in 2010Anna’s two children have found remnants of the “Migrant Way of the Cross,” a back to 2010, aimed at drawing attention to the a buyer and want to sell their mother’s house. Since title to the house is still in caravan that set out from southern Mexico on plight of destitute Central Americans crossing the names of Anna’s deceased parents an affidavit of death for Anna’s father will March 25 with more than 1,000 people, infuriat- Mexico in search of a better life. need to be recorded at the county recorder’s office. The affidavit is necessary to transfer ownership of the house from Anna’s mother and father to Anna’s mother. Since Anna’s mother died without a trust her estate will need to be probated in order for the property to pass to Anna who is an only child and therefore the only heir to her mother’s estate. The probate of Anna’s mother’s estate may take anywhere from 8 months to a year or longer. The prob- lem is that in 2010 Anna is already dead so the property cannot be transferred to Anna. Anna’s estate will now need to be probated and an estate representative appointed so that Anna’s mother’s estate (the house) can be transferred to the estate representative of Anna’s estate, who will then be able to transfer the property to Anna’s two sons at the conclusion of the probate of Anna’s estate. Sometimes it can be difficult to find an attorney willing to probate a case that has been delayed for many years because the attorney’s statutory fee for probating an estate is based on the value of the estate at the time of death. Obviously, the value of prop- erty in the Bay Area or anywhere in California was a lot less twenty or twenty-five years ago than it is today, making a long delayed probate a much less attractive case for the attorney.

(Photo: www.omanobserver.om)

ing US President Donald Trump. Mexico came under intense pressure from After Trump demanded Mexico stop the Trump, who also threatened to axe the North migrants and ordered the National Guard to the American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) border, the caravan quietly dispersed. -- which he called Mexico’s “cash cow” -- if the But a large group including many families caravan was not stopped. with children traveled en masse to Tijuana, across Instead, the Mexican authorities gave the mi- the border from San Diego, and insisted on being grants temporary visas to decide if they wanted to allowed to enter the United States to request asy- seek refuge in Mexico, go home or keep trudging lum, in accordance with international law. toward the United States. (AFP) After letting them through in a trickle over the course of several days, US border officers granted entry to the last 83 members of that group on Friday, said Alex Mensing, a member of People Without Borders (Pueblo Sin Fronteras), the organization behind the caravan. “We’re hoping they won’t have their children taken away. (US authorities) have been separat- ing families, which is unjust,” said Mensing. He said the migrants were fleeing brutal vio- lence at the hands of powerful street gangs that have given countries such as El Salvador, Hondu- ras and Guatemala some of the highest murder rates in the world. “We’re also hoping they won’t be detained indefinitely... because the US has signed interna- tional agreements saying that legal asylum-seek- Answers from LAST WEEK’S Krosword May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star B5 health & Menus with calorie counts now a must in U.S. as Obama-era rule takes effect lifestyle An Obama-era rule requiring thousands of organizations have lampooned it as inflexible and US restaurants, stores and movie theaters to post anti-business. nutritional information for items on their menus “Regrettably, FDA’s one-size-fits-all ap- kicked in Monday, reminding Americans they are proach demonstrates a stunning lack of under- Health@Heart what they eat. standing about consumer preferences and the The calorie-labeling rules were a contro- pizza category,” said Tim McIntyre, chair of the Warning: Colorectal Cancer versial provision of former president Barack American Pizza Community, a coalition of pizza Obama’s signature 2010 health care law -- which chains. PHILIP S. CHUA, MD, FACS, FPCS President Donald Trump has pushed to dismantle “Pizza’s unique ordering variations create -- and their implementation has been postponed countless combinations making it difficult to How com- When should colonoscopy be done? several times. accurately deliver information on printed menu mon is cancer Everyone 50 years old and older should But the Food and Drug Administration boards and costly to maintain,” he said in a state- of the colon and have an annual fecal occult blood test and a announced last year it would press ahead with ment. rectum? prophylactic colonoscopy every 3 to 5 years, in the regulation, which requires chains with 20 But Gottlieb emphasized that the FDA has Colorectal coordination with a physician. Since blood in or more locations as well as grocery stores and “worked hard to make sure this new rule can be cancer is the the feces is one of the earliest sign of colorectal convenience chains to post calorie counts for implemented in a way where the information will third-most com- cancer, testing for blood in the stools yearly standard menu items. be maximally beneficial to consumers and the mon cancer in among those 50 and older is essential, and Many major restaurant chains like McDon- new requirements will be minimally burdensome humans, topped could be lifesaving. And so with prophylactic ald’s and Taco Bell are already complying with to restaurants and retail establishments.” only by cancer colonoscopy. the rule, but the federal government will now “Firms won’t need to deal with a patchwork of the lungs and How do we prevent colorectal can- require it. of different requirements for calorie labeling female breasts. cer? “National menu labeling could help make a across the country,” he added. More than 150,000 people in the United States As alluded to above, a high-fiber (fruits big difference in America’s obesity rates, one of Posters, billboards and coupon mailings are each year discover they have cancer of the colon and vegetables, bran, oat, wheat) and fish diet our most vexing public health challenges,” wrote exempted, and supermarkets and convenience or rectum, and approximately 46,000 will die will tremendously reduce the risk of colorectal FDA Commissioner Scott Gottlieb, citing research stores do not have to post calorie information from it this year alone. The incidence starts to cancer. Therefore, staying away from animal that menu labeling prompts consumers to order next to each item in self-service buffets and drink rise at the age 40 and the peak is between ages protein, like red meat (pork, beef and anything 30 to 50 calories less per visit. stations, Gottlieb said last November. 60 to 75. Colon cancer is more common among made of these) is a big factor in preventing the A number of public health advocacy groups More than a third of Americans are obese, women and cancer of the rectum among men. development of colorectal cancer, besides heart as well as the National Restaurant Associa- putting them at higher risk for heart disease, About 5% of the patients have both (synchro- attack and stroke. Daily exercises make our tion have lauded the move, but some industry diabetes and some types of cancer. (AFP) nous cancer). body healthier and more resistant to illnesses. Does genetics play a role in colorec- Abstinence from tobacco is a must. Checking tal cancer? your stools for blood every time you defecate To some degree yes, but there is really a and reporting any warning signs listed above Feeling annoyed about noise pollution could increase risk of heart flutter low genetic predisposition to cancer of the large to your physician will help. For those 50 and New European research has found that expo- noise experiencing depression compared to 11.6 intestine. Exception to this is seen in “cancer- older, having a yearly fecal occult blood test sure to annoying levels of noise could increase the percent of those extremely annoyed. families” and “colon cancer-families,” where and a colonoscpy every 3 to 5 years, is strongly risk of atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm irregu- However, blood pressure and heart rate were colorectal cancer victimizes family members recommended for early detection and cure of larity also known as heart flutter which can lead unaffected by noise annoyance. cross several generations, usually occurring be- the disease. to stroke, heart failure and other serious health Commenting on the findings study lead fore the age of 40. Predisposing factors include What is the treatment for colorectal conditions. Omar Hahad said, “The study shows for the first chronic ulcerative colitis, ganulomatous colitis, cancer? Carried out by researchers from the Depart- time that noise annoyance caused by various and familial polyposis. The older the person is, Depending on the stage and location of the ment of Cardiology at the Mainz University Medi- noise sources during the day and night is associ- the higher the risk. colorectal cancer, the primary strategy is wide cal Center, Germany, the team looked at data ated with an increased risk of atrial fibrillation. Are meat-eaters more prone to col- surgical resection of the cancer and regional taken from the Gutenberg Health Study (GHS), Overall, we were able to demonstrate a stronger orectal cancer? lymphatic drainage. Cure is possible in 75% one of the largest studies of its kind which has influence of annoyance caused by nocturnal noise It appears to be so, because colorectal can- of surgical patients. For cancer limited to the already looked at the effects of noise pollution on on the heart rhythm.” cer is found more prevalent in populations that mucosa (surface lining of the wall of the colon), health. The researchers pointed out that the study low-fiber diets that are high in animal proteins, 5-year survival is about 90%; those cancer go- For the new research the team surveyed measured noise annoyance, not the level of physi- fats, and refined carbohydrates. The incidence ing deeper into the mucularis propia (muscle- 15,010 men and women aged 35 to 74 taking part cal noise, however they added that noise annoy- of colorectal cancer is indeed high among those layer of colon), 80%; those with positive lymph in the GHS, asking them how much they had been ance could still be an important indicator for who eat red meat (pork, beef, etc) compared nodes, meaning cancer already spreading to annoyed in recent years by road, rail, construc- which noise levels may be considered significant to those who eat high fiber diets (vegetables, the lymph nodes, 30%. Other modalities of tion, trade, neighborhood noise and aircraft noise or unacceptable, and may be even harmful for our fruits, wheat, bran, etc) and fish. treatment includes pre-operative radiotherapy, during both the day and night. health. What are the signs of colorectal adjuvant radiotherapy, chemotherapy. When Atrial fibrillation was diagnosed using par- Professor Thomas Münzel also added, “The cancer? surgery and/or any of these other modalities ticipants’ medical history and/or ECG tests. relationship between noise annoyance and atrial The person may not have symptoms at all. are indicated will depend on the location, ex- The results showed that as the level of noise fibrillation is an important finding that may also It could be so subtle, like fatigue and anemia. tent and stage of the colorectal cancer. annoyance increases, so does frequency of atrial explain why noise can lead to more strokes.” Blood in the stool (black or bloody red stools) What is the outlook for colorectal fibrillation, with the team finding that 23 percent Feelings of anger, disturbed sleep, exhaus- is one common sign. The others include change cancer patients? of those who were “extremely” annoyed by the tion and stress caused by exposure to noise can in the bowel habits, diarrhea or constipa- There is no question that the outlook for level of noise suffered from atrial fibrillation, also permanently impair wellbeing, health and tion, stools more slender or flatter than usual, colorectal cancer, and most other cancers in compared to just 15 percent of those who were quality of life, added the researchers. stomach discomfort, bloating, fullness, abdomi- general, is much better today. But we cannot not annoyed by noise. The results can be found published online in nal cramps, frequent gas pains, unexplained overemphasize the common-sense wisdom that The team also found that the prevalence of the International Journal of Cardiology. (in- weight loss, a sensation that the rectum does prevention is the best “treatment,” especially depression also increased steadily with noise an- quirer.net) not empty completely. Not all these symptoms when dealing with any potentially deadly noyance, with 6.1 percent of those unaffected by and signs need to be present, or necessary, to disease like cancer, heart attack, stroke, AIDS, possible presence colorectal cancer. etc. New hopes for cancer victims are in the Any one of these, if persistent, should alert one pipeline of dozens of research/clinical labora- to seek medical help. tories in the United States and other countries What are intestinal polyps? around the world. Before the advent of the oral HOROSCOPE These are small benign tumors (not medications for pulmonary tuberculosis, the http://www.starlightastrology.com cancerous growths) in the colon, but they may disease acted like cancer, spreading from the become cancerous over a period of time, hence lungs to the brain, bones, liver, kidneys, spleen, Aries Libra termed “precancerous.” Detecting and remov- lymph nodes, etc. We predict that someday (Mar. 21- April 20) (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) ing polys is one strategy to prevent colorectal soon, hopefully in the not too distant future, You will have to be careful not to let Set the ball in motion and be relentless until malignancy. In most instances, polyps can be many forms of cancers, if not all, will be cured you complete the project. You can help other others find out about your intentions. Your people with their financial problems by setting determination and stamina will make your work removed by colonoscopic procedure (long, by simply taking anti-cancer pills. In the mean- up a budget for them. You will find your personal look flaw less and effortless. Avoid conflicts with tube-like flexible fiberoptic lighted “tele” scope, time, it behooves each one of us to play an ac- partner taxing this week. Those close to your in-laws or other family members. You can finish about the diameter of the index finger, inserted tive role in protecting ourselves from becoming heart may be difficult to reason with. projects early, which will bring you praise from thru the anus, to inspect the rectum and colon, cancer victims by living a healthy lifestyle and Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. superiors. make biopsy and/or excision of polyps). This by being ever-vigilant about our health and that Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. saves the patient from an abdominal surgery. of our loved ones. Taurus About 60% of all colorectal cancers are within Visit philipSchua.com Email: scalpel- (Apr. 21- may 21) Scorpio the reach of flexible fiberoptic sigmoidoscopy, [email protected] (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) Entertainment should include your whole popularly known as colonoscopy. family. You’d be wise to control your spending Minor fevers or infections will develop if you’re so your debts don’t get out of hand. You may be over-stressed. Concentrate on your career and sensitive concerning friends and their situations. on making money. Do not let your mate annoy Answers to this week’s Krosword Family trips or projects should be on your mind. you; patience will be the key. Real estate should on NEXT WEEK’S issue Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. be lucrative for you. KrosWord Gemini Your lucky day this week will be Friday. (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo)

(May 22-June 21) Sagittarius PAHALANG Deceit around you is evident. Be supportive (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 1 Kalat in order to avoid confrontations. You can buy Relationships will form if you get out and do 5 Dating teleserye ni Piolo or sell if you’re so inclined. Make sure that new things that you enjoy. You may have to take 9 Siyasat a short trip to visit someone who hasn’t been mates live up to your high standards. 10 Simbolo ng Tin Your lucky day this week will be Monday. well. Your ability to be practical in business will help. Keep your cash in your pocket and offer 12 Hamak Cancer them sound advice rather than your financial 13 Ikli ng Kapitan (June 22-July 22) assistance. 14 Pag-uutos sa isang tao You will be popular and will easily attract Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. bilang kinatawan members of the opposite sex. You have your 16 Undertime own family to consider as well. Go after your Capricorn 17 Isang ekspresyon professional goals. New emotional connections (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 18 Antala can be made through business contacts. You You will probably have to defend your mate. 19 Derek, artista You may find that your emotional partner will can discuss your findings behind closed doors 20 Munggo with your boss. not be too eager to accommodate you. You need Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. to do something energetic and different. Talk 22 Old Latin to your mate about a vacation and discuss the 23 Gaspang Leo expectations of your relationship. 24 Portugal: ikli (July 23-Aug 22) Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. 26 Luad Your personal partner may be less than 28 Gov. Maliksi ng Cavite willing to accommodate you this week. Don’t Aquarius 30 Sais blow situations out of proportion or you could (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 32 Lamang find that others will misinterpret what really Plans to make physical improvements may 33 Kable sa pagdaong ng lead to psychological changes, too. Lowered happened. Friendships could be terminated sasakyang dagat quickly if disappointments occur. New romantic vitality could affect your work. Overexertion and relationships will develop through group activity negligence will be your worst enemies. You need 35 Apelyidong Tsino related to sports events. to mingle with people who can spark enthusiasm 36 Karugtong ng pusod Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. and confidence in you. PABABA 37 Notang musikal Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. 38 Man’s bestfriend 1 Taksil 11 Pagbukas ng bibig Virgo (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Pisces 2 Awiting-Bisaya 14 Yunit ng pananalapi You may be able to impart knowledge that’s (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 3 Pera ng Laos sa 25 Pagtabas o pagpantay innovative to those searching for a new angle. You should spend your day trying to get things 4 Simbolo ng Pilak 15 Oh My God! 27 Pangalang panlalaki Don’t believe everything you hear. Don’t let completed at work. Your reputation may be at 6 Overacting 18 Maraming dumi saan mang 29 Simple others take advantage of your good nature. Do stake if you partake in gossip. Control your 7 Dala-dalahan bahagi ng katawan 30 Tatay something special for them. temper by getting immersed in your work. New 8 Pataw 21 Murang suwi ng kawayan 31 Bahagi ng mata Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. hair, new outfit, new you. 10 Proseso o anumang kilos na na maaring kainin 33 Bulalasing pangprobinsya Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. patungo sa unahan 24 Debosyon 34 Associated Press B6 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 entertainment Sarah Geronimo promises no more tears: ‘Naba-bash tayo masyado’ Dobol B sa News TV marks first anniversary “Nagpapasalamat kami After the Las Vegas show all have our battles in life. These her audience: “‘Sarah, bakit ka sa mga tao who appreciated where she had a much-talked all piled up.) naghahanap ng iba? Yun ang the work that goes on what we about on-stage breakdown, pop “Pero, wala pong iyakan binigay ng Diyos sa ‘yo. Gamitin do. It’s not easy to write songs star Sarah Geronimo shared her ngayon. Bawal (But now there mo ang platform to glorify his everyday about the issues and musings with a receptive audi- are no more tears. It’s not name and to give blessing to to find their lighter side para ence in Chicago. allowed),” she said, receiving other people.’” maging satire yung content,” Geronimo is currently in a laughs from the crowd. (Sarah, why are you looking shares Ali. United States tour for a series of “Pangit. Nanu-news tayo for something else? This is what And with Dobol B sa News concerts marking her 15 years eh. Naba-bash tayo masyado God gave you. Use your plat- TV helping to further strengthen in the music and entertainment (It’s not good. We get into the form to glorify his name and to DZBB’s radio broadcast opera- industry. news, we get bashed too much),” give blessing to other people.) tion, DZBB is now the number one AM radio station in Mega Manila. Based on data from Nielsen Radio Audience Measurement, DZBB’s weekday morning time (L-R) , , Ali Sotto, and Joel Reyes Zobel block (6AM to 11AM) held the (Photo coutesy of GMA Tv) top spot in Mega Manila during GMA News TV’s Dobol B sa tangkilik sa Dobol B sa News the fourth quarter of 2017 with News TV celebrates one year of TV tuwing umaga. Ngayong 37.40 percent average audience delivering the country’s biggest naka-isang taon na tayo, hindi share versus DZMM’s 30.20 news and commentaries simul- rin namin tatantanan ang araw- percent. And in the first quarter taneously via AM radio and free araw na pagahatid ng Serbi- of 2018, DZBB again led the television – “Radyo na, TV pa!” syong Totoo sa bawat Pilipino,” competition with 35.40 per- Anchored by four of the says Mike as he extends his cent as against DZMM’s 30.30 country’s most trusted radio gratitude to everyone who percent. broadcasters—GMA News pil- continuously support Dobol B sa Dobol B sa News TV lars Mike Enriquez and Arnold News TV. features DZBB’s top-rating Clavio together with Joel Reyes Arnold, on the other hand, morning programs beginning Zobel and Ali Sotto, Dobol B shares how he enjoys working with Saksi sa Dobol B, Super Sarah Geronimo sa News TV is the successful with the ‘Fab Four’ of radio. Balita sa Umaga Nationwide, (Photo: www.youtube.com) collaboration of GMA’s flagship “Isang taon na rin ang kalampa- Sino?, and Dobol A Sa Dobol B. AM radio station Super Radyo gan at kulitan. Ang nakakatuwa At the same time, the program DZBB and the country’s lead- kasi sa programa, walang script presents commentaries on na- A video of her addressing she quipped. She also mentioned her ing local news channel GMA kaya nagiging natural lang ang tional issues in an entertaining the walkout in Las Vegas is post- She shared her reaction to apprehensions in performing in News TV. It regularly provides batuhan namin. Maraming sala- manner through the well-loved ed on the YouTube account Ash some criticisms, particularly the United States and expressed the listening and viewing public mat sa isang taong paglalakbay musical-commentary segments Rick and is credited to a Marlon about those which say that she her gratitude towards fans. with news headlines, weather sa himpapawid!,” he said. Jeng-Jeng and Balitawit. Pecson. is taking her opportunities for “15 years po — hindi ko po bulletins, traffic reports, public “Tuloy-tuloy lang po ang Catch Dobol B Sa News TV “Last time po, naging emo- granted: “Huwag nang ganoon. akalain na, alam n’yo po, takot service announcements, and ating pagbabalita at pagba- weekdays on GMA’s interna- tional ako dahil nag-panic po Akala n’yo inarte ako, binigay akong bumalik dito sa States. even entertainment tidbits that bantay sa pinakamalaking tional channel, GMA News TV ako. Kasi po walang tulog, tapos na nga sa ‘kin ‘to, inarte pa ako. Kasi baka walang pumunta, wa- only Dobol B can offer. balita tuwing umaga. Maraming International. For the program parang nawala yung boses ko,” Mawawala din ito ano so hang- lang manood. So grabe po itong “Nagpapasalamat kami salamat po sa pagtangkilik at guide, visit www.gmapinoytv. Geronimo revealed. gang mayroon, go lang!” pagtanggap ninyo. Maraming sa lahat ng patuloy na tuma- pagtitiwala,” adds Joel. com. (I was emotional last time (Let’s not do that. You think maraming salamat,” she said. because I panicked. I had no I’m being dramatic, that I was (It’s been 15 years — I sleep and I lost my voice.) given this and I’m being dra- didn’t realize that I’d be afraid Rihanna and Drake friends no more “Sabi ko, ‘Lord!’ Pero matic. This will all go away so to go back to the States. Because “We don’t have a friend- where Drake heaped praises naalala ko siyempre ang journey while it’s here, I’ll keep going.) maybe no one would go or ship right now, but we’re not and presented Rihanna with ko, humble beginnings natin, Geronimo reflected on an watch. That’s why this reception enemies either,” Rihanna said of the Vanguard award for her pinagdaanan. Tsaka siyempre, existential crisis she has had on is great. Thank you so much.) her current status with Drake, accomplishments in music—the lahat po tayo may battle sa the success she has attained, After her breakdown, which to whom she had been romanti- Barbadian singer admitted that buhay. So nagpatong-patong na and what she wants more in life. she admitted was due to fatigue, cally linked in the past. it was quite an uncomfortable po,” she explained of her teary She said that she has wondered the singer-actress has received “It is what it is,” the pop experience. confession in the Las Vegas about what else could fulfill her, an outpouring of support from singer said in an interview “Waiting through that show. aside from singing and acting. fans and celebrities. Geronimo published in the latest issue of speech was probably the most (I thought, “Lord!” But I The pop princess said she has still powered through and Vogue magazine. uncomfortable part. I don’t like remembered my journey, our found the answer to those ques- is making her last stop on the While things seemed well too many compliments; I don’t humble beginnings, what we’ve tions in a piece of important U.S. tour in New York on May 6. between the two during the 2016 like to be put on blast,” she said. (L-R) Rihanna and Drake gone through. And of course, we advice, which drew cheers from (Nina V. Guno / inquirer.net) MTV Video Music Awards— (Allan Policarpio / inquirer.net) (Photo: www.usmagazine.com) May 10 - 16, 2018 FilAm Star B7 entertainment Cebu native earns chance to win a 2nd Tony Award Jiu-jitsu, Balintawak knife training LOS ANGELES—He is the first Filipino, He takes into consideration body type and and as an immigrant to win a Tony for the useful for Jennylyn’s TV series Asian—in fact, the first person of color—to personal quirks, and is open to change and first time in 2016, and be the first person of In terms of acting, GMA 7’s So whatever questions I have, win the best costume design of a play prize revision. color to win in the best costume design of a new thriller series, “The Cure,” he can answer,” she said. in the Tony Awards, theater’s biggest honor, “As for what I like about my Erzulie play category? It’s an honor, of course. But is hardly the toughest project In return, Jennylyn sees in 2016. costumes, that headdress all by itself is a mostly, it means we have a lot of work to do Jennylyn Mercado has done. Its to it that Tom’s health is being Cebu-born Clint Ramos credits his treasure, and my long sleeves, too! I get to about inclusion. physical aspect, however, is a looked after on set. “I give him mom, lawyer Erlinda Boiser Ramos, whom whip them around and swat people, and What were your sources of inspiration different story. some essential oils when he isn’t he describes as a “total dramatista,” for grab attention before a speaking line.” for your costumes in “Once on This Island,” Here, the Kapuso actress feeling well,” she said. “I myself inspiring his love for theater at such an early With his impressive design credits, which you described as “trashion,” creating does her own stunts and gets age. Clint has created costumes for a long list of “divinity from the discarded?” The people of to pretend to be an action And now, the University of the Philip- actors, including Jake Gyllenhaal (“Sunday Haiti. The inventiveness of necessity. star, as she faces different pines and Philippine Science High School How much fun did you have designing obstacles and fights rabid alumnus is up for the same award, this time costumes for this particular cast, including zombie-like creatures. “I do a for a musical, “Once on This Island,” which a kababayan, ? So much fun. lot of fight scenes, which can features Lea Salonga in the cast. They’re my family. be taxing. That’s why I have The New York-based Fil-Am fielded Which actors have been the most fun to condition myself well. I congratulations from family and friends to work with, over the years? Lea has been a don’t want to be too hard on when the 2018 Tony Awards nominations blast. Lupita (Nyong’o) was awesome. Jake my body,” she told reporters were announced last Tuesday morning. (Gyllenhaal) was fun. at a recent press conference. Clint’s nod was one of eight citations that How did growing up in Cebu spark your Jennylyn was proud to the musical revival, directed by Michael creativity and imagination? It was such a relate that, while she usually Arden, earned. magical place. The way the sea interacted has a double on standby, Jennylyn Mercado Based on Rosa Guy’s 1985 novel “My with the land and the people—it fed my she has never actually found (Photo: www.journal.com.ph) Love, My Love; or, The Peasant Girl,” “Once creativity. a need for one, so far. “The on This Island” is a musical fable set on an Was there anyone in your family who double simply demonstrates the am very careful about my well- island in the Caribbean that’s devastated by inspired your love for costumes, scenic stunt, then I do it myself,” she being—it’s so difficult to give a hurricane. design and theater? My mother. She’s a total said, adding that she was ec- your best when you’re sick.” Lynn Ahrens (book and lyrics) and “dramatista” and an aesthete. static about being able to apply As for the never-ending Stephen Flaherty (music) weave the tale of When and what was the first play or the things she has learned from questions about Dennis and a peasant girl, Ti Moune (Hailey Kilgore), Clint Ramos musical that you watched in the Philippines? doing martial arts. their future plans, Jennylyn who falls in love with a rich boy, Daniel (Photo: www.behindthecurtainpodcast.blog) “Oliver!” I was 8 or 9. “My training in jiu-jitsu was characteristically reserved. (Isaac Powell). When their disparate worlds Were you involved in theater at the and Balintawak knife proved to She did, however, belied talks separate the lovers, powerful island gods— Philippine Science High School? At Pisay, be very useful for this show,” that the bejeweled ring she was Erzulie (Lea), Agwe (Quentin Earl Dar- in the Park with George”), Lupita Nyong’o Chris Millado was our drama teacher. He she pointed out. recently seen wearing meant she rington), Papa Ge (Tamyra Gray) and Asaka (“Eclipsed,” for which he won his first Tony) was an early influence. Doing a show that has was engaged. “It’s mine … What, (Alex Newell)—intervene. and Bradley Cooper (“The Elephant Man”). How did Tony Mabesa and Dulaang UP horror and action elements, she I can’t buy my own stuff now?” With such a setting that evokes post- His work in designing sets and costumes has make you, in your own words, “truly fall in said, is a breath of fresh air, af- she said, chuckling. storm Haiti, Clint was challenged by Michael encompassed over a hundred productions, love with the theater”? Tony taught me that ter doing dramas and romantic Jennylyn also said Dennis to design costumes using trash and found from theater and opera to dance. theater could be a way of life—not just as a comedies. “I want to do differ- and her biological father get objects. Using ethernet cables and tangling The BA in theater arts graduate of the career but as a path to life. ent things— along really well. “They have them, Clint came up with an imposing head- University of the Philippines, where he was And then going to America to try your otherwise, you don’t get the same interests. They love to dress for Lea’s Erzulie. active in Dulaang UP, earned his MFA in de- luck in theater, how did that feel like? I felt challenged, you don’t learn and play music, so they jam together New York Times’ Jesse Green, who sign for stage and film at New York Univer- like I found a place where I could express you get boxed in,” Jennylyn sometimes,” she related. hailed “Once” as “ravishing” in his review, sity’s Tisch School of the Arts. He has been myself freely. said. Meanwhile, in light of GMA wrote, “Asaka’s tablecloth skirt and a trash an associate or visiting professor at several Who opened the doors for you? My She’s paired with Tom 7 talents recently transferring to tiara for Erzulie are among the many small universities in the East Coast. friend Liesl Tommy took me along. Rodriguez, who happened to be other networks—such as Ryza delights of Clint Ramos’ often hilarious Clint and his husband, Jason Moff, Can you elaborate on what you wrote her boyfriend Dennis Trillo’s Cenon—Jennylyn was asked if costume design.” The praise for Clint’s cos- have a lovely daughter. in your social media post: “…How the love interest in “My Husband’s she has ever seriously thought tumes is echoed in other reviews. Excerpts from our e-mail interview: theater has seen me through these darkest Lover.” “Dennis is happy that about jumping ship. The 30- Lea said, via e-mail, about Clint: “He What was different about hearing of times…and also made me feel welcome Tom and I got to work together year-old actress maintained that is from the motherland, just like me, so that you were nominated again for a Tony and made me feel like it’s OK to be broken?” this time because they have she has never received offers already we share many experiences unique Award? Because “Once on This Island” Theater gave me a community that accepted become good friends,” said from ABS-CBN. to being Filipino, as well as artists of color. has been doing great, this time I was more me and my flaws. Jennylyn, who described Tom “I’m where I am right now I also automatically speak in Filipino once I conscious of it. How do Jason Moff and your daugh- as a “patient, hardworking and because of GMA 7, and what I see his face, which in its own way keeps us What do you remember most about ter inspire you in your work? They are my inquisitive” person. can give them is my loyalty,” tethered to home, despite being so far away learning you earned a Tony nomination that life. They’re the light at the end of that dark “He always wants to learn she said, adding that she has from it literally and experientially. first time in 2016? My phone was just blow- tunnel. more. He asks our director nothing against her colleagues Lea Salonga loves Clint Ramos’ atten- ing up. I remember being very emotional What are your dreams and goals? Just about what other things he who decided to make the move. tion-grabbing headdress and long sleeves for with my friend Liesl Tommy, who directed continuing to create. Spend more time with could try to improve his job,” “That’s their decision. We have her character, Erzulie “Eclipsed.” She was also nominated that my family. (Ruben V. Nepales / inquirer. she said. “He’s also energetic. to do whatever’s good for us “Clint works with each artist to help year. net) He’s very knowledgeable about and our career,” she said. (Allan them define their characters in the show. What does it mean to you personally geeky stuff, music and science. Policarpio / inquirer.net) B8 FilAm Star May 10 - 16, 2018 entertainment ‘Avengers: Infinity War’ scores second best weekend 2 ever Gary Valenciano undergoes LOS ANGELES, United States — After The cast, including Derbez and Eva Hollywood’s summer movie season successful heart bypass surgery breaking opening weekend records, “Aveng- Longoria, helped promote the film on their typically runs from the first weekend in Singer Gary Valenciano underwent a successful bypass surgery ers: Infinity War” continued to dominate in social media accounts too. May through Labor Day, but this year got earlier on Sunday, May 6, after tests weeks ago showed that one of its second weekend in theaters, but alterna- “It’s great to have a large base espe- a jump-start with the late April release of the music artist’s coronary arteries was “95 percent blocked” and tive programming like the romantic comedy cially in the wake of ‘Avengers,’” Presburger “Avengers: Infinity War.” had very thin walls “because of diabetes.” “Overboard” also found an audience in “This was not the strongest weekend “As of today, May 6, at 7:30 p.m, Gary’s heart surgery was suc- what has historically been considered the ever in terms of the official kick-off of the cessful… He’s doing very well,” Valenciano’s wife, Angeli Pangili- “official” kick-off to the summer movie summer season, but we could be looking nan said in a text message. “In behalf of our family, I request for season. at a record May ultimately,” Dergara- The Walt Disney Co. said Sunday bedian said, noting upcoming releases that “Avengers: Infinity War” will gross like “Deadpool 2” (May 18) and “Solo: an estimated $112.5 million from North A Star Wars Story” (May 25). “This American theaters over the weekend, be- weekend just shows how the strategy of coming the second highest grossing film release dates is changing how the box in weekend two behind “Star Wars: The office plays out.” Force Awakens’” $149.2 million and just Estimated ticket sales for Friday slightly ahead of “Black Panther” ($111.7 through Sunday at U.S. and Canadian million). theaters, according to comScore. Where It’s a 56 percent drop from its first available, the latest international num- weekend in theaters — less steep than bers for Friday through Sunday are also the second weekend fall of “Avengers: included. Final domestic figures will be Age of Ultron” (59.4 percent) or “Captain released Monday. America: Civil War” (59.5 percent), but “Avengers: Infinity War,” $112.5 more than “Black Panther’s” uniquely soft million ($162.6 million international). Gary Valenciano 44.7 percent sophomore weekend decline. “Overboard,” $14.8 million. (Photo: www. cnnphilippines.com) “We’re in uncharted territory again,” “A Quiet Place,” $7.6 million ($4.1 said comScore senior media analyst Paul million international). Dergarabedian. “This is a second week- “I Feel Pretty,” $4.9 million ($3.2 end number that many films would aspire million international). prayers for my husband’s speedy recovery.” to have on opening weekend.” “Rampage,” $4.6 million ($13.7 mil- Valenciano, 53, said he first felt that something was wrong two Globally, “Avengers: Infinity War” lion international). weeks ago, after a dance performance with his son Gab. has now grossed over $1.2 billion and “Tully,” $3.2 million ($200,000 “After that dance, I felt a sensation I had never felt before – become the first film ever to cross the $1 international). not even during the times I would push myself, [like] riding my billion mark in 11 days of release, and it “Black Panther,” $3.1 million mountain bike on the trails for extended periods of time. I felt has yet to even open in China. ($390,000 international). tightness and pain in my chest,” Valenciano wrote in a message There was little new competition (Photo: www. unilad.co.uk) “Truth or Dare,” $1.9 million ($5.7 relayed by Pangilinan. this weekend in the blockbuster space, million international). Valenciano, who has been living with Type 1 diabetes, imme- although there were a handful of other “Super Troopers 2,” $1.8 million diately consulted a doctor and underwent tests. He learned that options, like “Overboard,” which came in a said. “We have a movie out there that plays ($90,000 international). his heart’s blood vessels were in fine condition, save for the left very distant second to “Avengers,” but still to families and all audiences that should “Bad Samaritan,” $1.8 million. anterior descending artery. made a notable splash for a film its size. have success into Mother’s Day and on- Estimated ticket sales for Friday “I have a good, strong heart. The doctors are amazed. My heart MGM and Lionsgate’s Pantelion Films’ wards.” through Sunday at international theaters and all its blood vessels, with the exception of one, are miraculously gender-swapped remake of Garry Mar- Although critics were not especially (excluding the U.S. and Canada), according in excellent condition. Surprising after 39 years of Type 1 Diabe- shall’s 1987 comedy, “Overboard” scored won over by “Overboard,” audiences gave to comScore: tes,” he related. the highest-grossing opening weekend the film a more favorable A- CinemaScore. 1.”Avengers: Infinity War,” $162.6 “The tough news. The one exception – the main valve, my left for Pantelion Films with a better-than- Third place went to “A Quiet Place,” million. anterior descending artery is 95 percent blocked and now has very expected $14.8 million from 1,623 theaters. which has grossed $159.9 million in five 2.”Us And Them,” $27 million. thin walls, because of diabetes,” Valenciano added. It’s already surpassed its modest mid-teens weeks in theaters, and fourth place to “I 3.”Rampage,” $13.7 million. He said he wanted to share with people the details about his production budget. Feel Pretty,” now up to $37.8 million in 4.”A or B,” $11.1 million. condition, so as to “prevent gossip and speculation” that might Pantelion Films CEO Paul Presburger weekend three. “Rampage” rounded out 5.”Baahubali: The Conclusion,” $7.9 cause “worry and concern.” and Jonathan Glickman, president of the top five with $4.6 million, bumping its million. Valenciano apologized to those he had prior show biz com- the Motion Picture Group at MGM, both domestic total to $84.8 million. 6.”Ready Player One,” $6.3 million. mitments with and assured fans that he would be “recuperating, attribute the success to the star-power of In sixth place, “Tully,” starring Charl- 7.”Truth or Dare,” $5.7 million. getting better and building up my strength.” Eugenio Derbez (“Instructions Not In- ize Theron, launched on 1,353 screens 8.”Champion,” $5.5 million. “I know one day soon I will give my all on that stage again, cluded,” ”How to be a Latin Lover”) who with $3.2 million. It’s the third collabora- 9.”102 Not Out,” $3.4 million. perhaps in my spirit, even stronger than ever before,” he said. “I helped developed the bilingual remake with tion between director Jason Reitman and 10.”I Feel Pretty,” $3.2 million. (in- believe this will be a story to tell people, and yes, it will be another an American star (Anna Faris) to appeal not screenwriter Diablo Cody, the team behind quirer.net) one of God’s amazing faithful, merciful, gracious, and good ways. just to his Hispanic fan base but all audi- “Juno,” and their second with Theron, who Let’s not worry, OK? Let’s just be prayerful. (Allan Policarpio / ences. also starred in their film “Young Adult.” inquirer.net)