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AB 2612, PLESCIA CRIME Maguindanao massacre recalled WEEKLY ISSUE 70 CITIES IN 11 STATES ONLINE Vol. IX Issue 450 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 November 23 - 29, 2017 China telco to compete with PH NEWS | A2 Reds declared as PLDT-Smart, Globe Telecom terrorist group By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent To put an end to Filipino necessary to address the long-stand- consumers being held hostage to ing problems of our country. poor communications and data “Our people need fast, stable services, Senate President Aquilino internet speeds that are reasonably “Koko” Pimentel III on November priced. Bringing in a new competitor 21, commended the decision of helps achieve that,” he said. President Rodrigo Duterte to allow Pimentel, who previously put PH NEWS | A4 the operations in the country of a forward proposals to encourage third telecommunications carrier competition between the country’s Warriors punch through from China. two major telecommunications firms, The current telecommunica- said that adding a third player to Nets tions industry in the Philippines the Philippine telecommunications is dominated by PLDT-Smart and market “is the only way to force the Globe Telecom. two major local telco companies to Pimentel said a third telecom- improve their services.” munications firm is “exactly what He noted that the absence of al- the country needs to end a telco ternatives has numbed consumers to duopoly mired in mediocrity -- a (L-R) Sen Koko Pimentel and Sen. Grace Poe the reality of poor network coverage, (Photos: www.dzrhnews.com.ph / www.asiaone.com) situation that has allowed them to dropped calls, disappearing loads, hold the Filipino consumer hostage services.” problem, Pimentel said the President lost text messages, and slow data or SPORTS NEWS | A5 to poor communications and data By acting decisively to address this is showing the kind of political will TO PAGE A7 Adieu, Assistant ConsGen Ascalon Revolutionary gov’t not in constitution, Majority of poorest in ASEAN are Indonesians not supported by military – solons and Filipinos -- ASEAN-China-UNDP Report By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent By Corina Oliquino | FilAm Star Correspondent said Sen. Panfilo Lacson last According to a development report November 21. released by the Association of South- He said the military east Asian Nations (ASEAN), up to had expressed that it would 90 percent of the 36 million people in COMMUNITY | B1 not support, and “rightly so Southeast Asia living below the poverty because who will support a line are Filipinos and Indonesians. Ricky Davao wins revolutionary government This was one of the findings Best Supporting Actor which in the first place is not from the report commissioned by the even found in the Constitu- ASEAN, the United Nations Develop- tion?” ment Program (UNDP) and China. (L-R) Sen. Panfilo Lacson and Pres. Rodrigo Duterte “And even the military “An estimated 36 million people in (Photo: www.dailynewsph.com) and defense establishments, the region still live below the interna- they already said their piece tional poverty line, with almost 90 per- No revolutionary government -- they will not support a cent of these people in Indonesia or the under the administration of President revolutionary government. So who Philippines,” the report told Rappler. Rodrigo Duterte will take hold since will? Nobody,” added Lacson in an Despite this, the report noted that ENTERTAINMENT | B6 it does not have the support of the ambush interview. the extreme poverty data in the region Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), TO PAGE A7 TO PAGE A3 PH ranked 12th in terms of terrorism’s impact – PH GDP growth defies traditional Dangerous Drugs Board chairman who brought family, Global Index after-election pattern ‘girl Friday’ on gov’t expense trips abroad fired By Corina Oliquino By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent FilAm Star Correspondent Government economic managers were elated to report better-than- expected GDP growth during the third quarter, which prompted a flurry of 2017 forecast upgrades from market observers and recognition of a job well done. The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) announced November 16 that the Philippine economy expanded by 6.9 percent in this year’s third quarter, (Photo: Presidential Communications (Govern- ment of the Philippines) official facebook page) driven mainly by manufacturing trade and real estate, renting and business According to Global Terrorism activities. Growth in over-all industrial Index 2017, the Philippines ranks 12th output was recorded at 7.5 percent during the quarter alongside a 7.1 globally in terms of terrorism’s impact (L-R) Presidential spokesman Harry Roque and DDB Chairman Dionisio Santiago due to an” increase in the number of percent increase in the services sector. (Photo: www.gmanetwork.com) fatalities and terrorist activity.” There was a 2.5 percent slowdown in “We attribute the country’s growth “The Philippines, China and Thai- agricultural production as typhoon performance to sustained strong President Rodrigo Duterte warned “A number of them are lined up to land have suffered the highest num season wreaked havoc on farming and growth in exports and improvements he will fire public officials who go on be fired. Those who went out of the TO PAGE A7 fishing activities. TO PAGE A7 trips without his permission. TO PAGE A7 A2 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 ph news Drug raids illegal, Alert civilians, police foil bomb blast in Sultan Kudarat say 2 SC justices Police raids on houses of suspects effectively placed them ULAN, Sultan Kudarat the provincial capitol – for the in the middle of parked vehicles series of bomb attacks in the drug suspects without judicial under custodial investigation – Civilians and police authori- culmination of the weeklong near the main entrance of the province. warrants violated the antitorture without the assistance of a lawyer ties prevented on Wednesday “Kalimudan Festival.” provincial capitol grounds, Several attempts to set off law and other individual rights in violation of the law. night what could have been a He said the police was the venue of the culminating explosives here had also been enshrined in the 1987 Constitu- “When somebody is under bloody culmination program of immediately alerted, and bomb program. foiled in the past. tion, two Supreme Court justices a coercive process to make that a festival here when they foiled experts were quickly deployed According to the police But in November 2015, said on Tuesday. person actually do something, as a bombing attempt. and disarmed the IED, which official, the IED could blow up 15 people were injured when a At the opening of oral argu- in this case open the door to the Sultan Kudarat Police Di- was made of black powder, cut a car and could send its metal grenade blew up just outside ments in two petitions challeng- police, let them in, make them do rector Senior Supt. Raul Supiter nails, and metal sheets with shrapnel flying to as far as 500 the capitol compound while ing President Duterte’s brutal war whatever, then therefore under said alert civilians discovered torch as triggering device, at meters away had it exploded. an agri-trade fair was being on drugs, Associate Justice Mar- pain of coercion then that in fact the improvised explosive device past 9:30 p.m. No suspect had been iden- held. (Edwin O. Fernandez / vic Leonen asked human rights is torture according to the law,” while gathering by the roadside Supiter said the bomb was tified as of this posting. inquirer.net) lawyer Jose Manuel Diokno, who he said. in Barangay Kalawag – outside placed by still unidentified men This was the latest in the represented some of the petition- Orders unconstitutional ers, about incidents of policemen “Is it possible that there is a barging into the houses of drug violation of the Constitution im- suspects without court orders. mediately because of how Oplan What went before: Maguindanao massacre recalled Diokno, of the Free Legal As- Tokhang is imagined in the [PNP] sistance Group, brought the peti- circular? And that is a violation Justice for the victims of the in a sack. Saliao, who was a trusted aide In July 2015, Ampatuan Sr., tion to stop the police raids on of the right against self-incrim- Maguindanao massacre and their Three relatives of other wit- of the Ampatuans, testified in who battled liver cancer in deten- behalf of a survivor and two other ination and right to custodial families remains elusive. nesses and a potential witness, 2010 that the clan planned the tion, died of a heart attack at the people whose relatives were slain interrogation,” he said. On Nov. 23, 2009, 58 people, Alijol Ampatuan, who is a distant massacre over dinner and that National Kidney and Transplant by police in the war on drugs. Diokno answered in the including the wife of then Buluan Another group of petition- affirmative and claimed that the Vice Mayor Esmael Mangudadatu ers, represented by Joel Butuyan supposed unlawful acts of police and 32 media workers, were killed of the Center for International officers were allowed by the issu- in Sitio Masalay, Ampatuan, in Law, brought a class suit against ance of PNP Command Memo- Maguindanao. the Philippine National Police randum Circular No. 16–2016 They were on their way to seeking Supreme Court interven- and the Department of the Shariff Aguak to file Manguda- tion to keep their neighborhood Interior and Local Government datu’s certificate of candidacy for in San Andres Bukid, Manila, (DILG) Memorandum Circular governor in the May 2010 elec- safe from policemen who have No. 2017-112. tions when the convoy was flagged allegedly killed 35 residents of the He argued that the DILG and down. The victims were gunned impoverished community since PNP orders should be declared down on a hilltop. the war on drugs began last year. unconstitutional for using the Authorities found 57 bodies, Answering Leonen’s ques- words “neutralize” and “nega- including several buried with tions, Diokno said policemen tion,” whose vague definitions their vehicles. Photojournalist who conducted warrantless house only encouraged policemen to Reynaldo Momay of Midland searches violated the right of kill drug suspects and resort to Review, whose body has not been citizens to be presumed innocent “shortcuts” in dealing with the found, was formally recognized and the right against unreason- drug menace. in September 2012 as the 58th able search and seizure as defined “It expressly authorized victim. under Article III of the 1987 the police to kill [drug suspects] Government employee Constitution. in the guise of neutralizing or Eduardo Lechonsito, who was in a Dissecting the police opera- negating them without the benefit car on his way to Cotabato City for a medical checkup when it fell in tional procedures, Leonen ques- of trial and due process of law in with the convoy, his wife, Cecille, tioned Diokno on how the PNP violation of the Bill of Rights,” and three others in the vehicle implemented “Oplan Tokhang” Diokno said. were also among those killed. — the main vehicle of Mr. “The only true and lasting Nearly 200 individuals, Duterte’s crackdown on illegal solution to rampant crimes is to including former Gov. Andal drugs—based on the experiences strengthen the justice system, Ampatuan Sr. and his son, Andal of Diokno’s clients. not to supplant it with justice “Unsay” Jr., were charged with “If a suspect does not open that emanates from the barrels of multiple murder in the deadliest the door, what happens to the guns,” he added. election-related violence in the suspect? If you do not open the Senior Associate Justice An- (Photo: www.wikipedia.com) country. door, something will happen to tonio Carpio said policemen who Three witnesses in the mas- you, is it not correct? So there- conducted a case buildup against sacre have been reported killed. relative of the elder Ampatuan, Ampatuan Sr. gave the order to Institute. fore, there is a threat?” Leonen drug suspects who refused them One of them, Esmail Enog, was were also killed. “kill them all,” referring to the His death does not spare him asked Diokno. entry could be held liable for found hacked to pieces and placed Star witness Lakmudin people in the convoy. from civil liabilities. (inquirer.net) Leonen pointed out that po- violating the suspects’ right to lice entry into the houses of drug TO PAGE A5 November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star A3 ph news Sedition complaint vs. Trillanes for his ‘shoot Duterte with an M-60’ statement Chief Justice reveals why Duterte, By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent Speaker want to impeach her By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV Trillanes should be prosecuted “This is for irresponsibly criticized the Volunteers Against for inciting to sedition (Article and recklessly and continuously Supreme Court Chief Justice Crime and Corruption (VACC) 142, Revised Penal Code or accusing sans evidence, that the Maria Lourdes Sereno claimed whom he taunted as “Duterte RPC), proposing to commit coup President is keeping over PHP that President Rodrigo Duterte minions” for filing on November d’etat (Article 136, RPC), and 2 billion in bank accounts and and Speaker Pantaleon Alva- 9 a sedition complaint against graft (Section 3(e), Republic Act or amassing illegally-acquired rez are behind the filing of an him before the Pasay City Pros- 3019). wealth,” said the pro-Duterte impeachment complaint against ecutor’s Office. In their complaint, the lawyers. her for refusing to curry favors “These Duterte minions VACC lawyers asked the Pasay The VACC charged the op- for both. are doing all sorts of harass- City prosecutors to launch a pre- position senator for inciting the In the case of Alvarez, ment against me military to Sereno said the Speaker also in the hope that commit rebel- wants her out as chief justice they would be lion and insti- because she testified in the case able to divert my gate a coup d’ of the Philippine International attention,” said etat for telling Air Terminals Co. Inc. (Piatco), Trillanes who has them to use an builder of the Ninoy Aquino been a rabid critic M-60 machine International Airport-Terminal (L-R) Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno of President Ro- gun against 3 (NAIA 3). Alvarez at that time (Photo: www.rmn.ph) drigo Duterte and the President was part of the committee that skirmish at all. The only time I A company that his wife owned his family. for his alleged approved the terms of reference remember that he made a remark was the subcontractor for the Aside from unexplained for the contract, Sereno recalled. against me was in connection construction (of Naia-3),” Sereno extra-judicial wealth. Sereno said Duterte’s motive with the letter I wrote to him in pointed out. killings, the op- In a privi- in trying to get rid of her may August 2016, requesting that due The House of Representa- position senator lege speech be gleaned from his statements process be afforded the judges,” tive’s committee on justice will has also accused in the Senate about his “lavish” lifestyle. she said. decide on November 22 whether Duterte and his last October 3, Sereno said she has made “So does he have a hand in the impeachment complaint has family members of Trillanes said few friends but lots of enemies in office because she has rejected this impeachment? Well I go by probable cause. amassing ill-gotten the military requests for judicial favors. his official pronouncement and I Sereno is accused of not wealth through should shoot (L-R) President Rodrigo Duterte and Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV “I turned down President wish him success as a President declaring her true wealth, of her various anomalies. (Photo: www.news.abs-cbn.com) Duterte with A when he wanted this kind of but I hope he understands that supposed extravagant lifestyle “Sorry, but I an M-60 ma- appointment to be endorsed in checks and balances are very, as Chief Justice and of allegedly remain focused on finding ways liminary investigation, conduct chine gun for his alleged hidden the (Judicial and Bar Council). very important for any democ- bypassing her colleagues in the to continue to expose Duterte’s proper proceedings and find wealth. I turned down Sen. Y when racy,” the chief justice added. issuance of administrative orders. murders, corruption and secret probable cause to indict Trillanes The Senator has accused he wanted his candidate to be As for Alvarez, Sereno noted Sereno reiterated that she bank accounts; as well as Po- and other unidentified personali- the President and his family of pushed. I turned down a former that he was implicated in the had faithfully disclosed her earn- long’s (Davao City Vice-mayor ties for such offenses. having bank transactions from president who wanted a kind of awarding of the NAIA 3 build-op- ings in her statements of assets, Paolo Duterte) smuggling and “Trillanes not only repeat- 2006 to 2015 totaling up to PHP decision to be in favor of that erate-transfer contract to Piatco liabilities and net worth (SALN), involvement in the PHP 6.4- edly uttered seditious words or 2 billion when Duterte “had no person. I made enemies with a when he was senior assistant denying the allegation that she billion shabu shipment,” added speeches and unabatedly circu- businesses” to justify such huge former president because I did general manager of Manila Inter- did not declare her earnings from Trillanes. lated scurrilous libels against the sources of income. not yield to the legal theory that national Airport Administration the arbitration case of Piatco. Trillanes actively partici- President, which tend to disturb He had also repeatedly person wanted,” Sereno revealed. (MIAA). Alvarez was charged The Chief Justice also ar- pated in the Senate investigation the public peace but also repeat- challenged Duterte to prove he “Of course, everybody knows with plunder by a group of service gued that there is nothing illegal on the alleged links of the Presi- edly incited others to inflict hate is not corrupt and sign a waiver, what he (Duterte) said and I contractors for allegedly gaining with the purchase of her PHP dent’s eldest son and presidential or revenge,” read the complaint. for soldiers to “finally know think at one time, he thought that from the contract but was later 5-million Toyota Land Cruiser, son-in-law Hans Carpio, husband The VACC lawyers also said whether or not you have amassed Atty. (Lorenzo) Gadon’s com- acquitted by the Ombudsman. saying a circular from the Depart- of Davao City Mayor Sara Du- Trillanes “committed conspiracy ill-gotten wealth, and for you to plains regarding my extravagant Sereno was government ment of Budget and Manage- terte, to the massive smuggling at or proposal to commit coup d’ clear your name to those who lifestyle had some basis and then counsel in the case against Alva- ment “expressly authorized” the the Burea of Customs. etat” for encouraging the military still believe in you.” he kept quiet about it. So let us rez over Piatco’s build-operate- purchase of a vehicle with high The Vice-mayor and Carpio to rise up in arms against the “If the soldiers could see just say that I understand that he transfer deal at NAIA-3. engine displacement to allow for appeared in the Senate Blue President. this, they will use an M-60 has also asked me and the Om- “Speaker Alvarez had a lot to bullet-proofing. Ribbon committee hearing and Furthermore, they accused machine gun on you. These are budsman to resign at the same do with the result of that bidding, The Supreme Court chief strongly denied the accusations Trillanes of causing undue injury many. The magazines will be time,” she said, adding she has and one of the cases, in fact, that lamented the impact on the coun- against them by Trillanes. against the Duterte administra- emptied if you’re looking for PHP really no idea why the President was filed against him was pre- try’s democracy the impeachment Earlier in the day, VACC tion “through evident bad faith 40 million,” Trillanes said in wants her out. cisely for the conflict of interest case against her would inflict. lawyers led by Manuel Luna said or gross inexcusable negligence.” Tagalog. “We have had no personal situation that he finds himself in.

MAJORITY OF POOREST In a report by Rappler, during the 31st ASEAN ... FROM PAGE A1 Summit held in Manila last November 11 to 14, Department of Health Sec. Lyndon Lee Suy said that dropped to seven percent from a high of 17 percent “his counterparts in the region have committed to in 2005. addressing malnutrition, anti-microbial resistance “It focused on streamlining development financ- and disaster health management.” ing and strengthening domestic resource mobili- Suy added that the country is inclined towards zation in 10 ASEAN countries in order to finance healthy lifestyle policies such as President Rodrigo national development. It also highlighted China’s Duterte’s smoking ban in public areas. financing in ASEAN,” The Philippine Star reported. The report noted that ‘Brunei Darussalam, Ma- “ASEAN’s greatest asset is its people and proper laysia and Thailand are able to provide UHC through financing will enable (them) to reach their poten- a tax-funded system while Singapore provides UHC tial,” Vongthep Arthakaivalvatee, deputy secretary- through a contribution-based system that includes general for ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community said a social assistance component while Indonesia is during the report’s launching in Indonesia. committed to providing UHC and has set a target for “This report provides us with an understand- achieving UHC by 2019. ing on the scale and mix of financing in the ASEAN According to Rappler, the Philippines, also has region and the opportunities that can be explored a contribution-based system and it is said that this to maximize financing for SDGs,” Arthakaivalvatee would be addressed in the ASEAN report. added. “The design and configuration of the financ- Focus on health care ing model used affects how successfully the policy The report highlighted the importance for reaches the poorest people, expands the range of ASEAN nations to identify how to ‘finance poverty services on offer and reduces the costs they face,” a eradication programs in order to realize the SDGs statement from the ASEAN reads. and ASEAN Vision 2025.’ Haoliang Xu, Assistant Secretary-General of “While ASEAN has made progress in addressing the UNDP said that financing SDGs is everyone’s infectious diseases, challenges prevail as it now faces business. All factors – public, private, domestic and the rising rate of non-communicable diseases,” the international – have a role to play. report said. “It is not just about funds; it is about partner- “Providing universal health coverage (UHC) is ships across public and private sectors. We need to key in improving the lives of the people in ASEAN,” move to more integrated approaches of financing the the report added. SDGs across these sectors,” Xu added. A4 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 ph news Duterte to declare Reds as terrorists ASEAN policy by consensus too slow, democratized By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent processes needed for 4th industrial revolution – ADB The Armed Forces of the the panel,” he added. tion, why can’t we?” he added. Philippines (AFP) immediately Malacañang said last Novem- Sen. Panfilo Lacson, chair- By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent stepped up to pledge their support ber 20 there was nothing new in man of the Senate committee when President Duterte’s declared the President’s plan to declare the on public order and dangerous Southeast Asia needs telemedicine. The availability of administration expertise, while the New People’s Army (NPA) NDF, CPP and NPA as terrorist drugs, said “only a president with more than “the ASEAN way” high-speed broadband, 3D print- maintaining oversight on the a terrorist group since no peace groups. Duterte’s guts can declare the to navigate the Fourth Indus- ers and localized power hubs also ebb and flow of activities. Rather negotiation holds back the troops Presidential spokesman NPA as terrorists and that’s what trial Revolution. It must adopt a obviates the need for expensive than drawing up long-term if the NPA commit lawlessness. whole new operating system to road networks and centralized blueprints, ASEAN would do bet- Labor Sec. Silvestre Bello III, bring about regional integration electricity grids, which translates ter with rolling three-year plans chair of the government panel in in the face of rapid technological to modernization at drastically that allow for course corrections off-and-on peace talks with the change, according to a recently lower costs. in the face of rapid, non-linear communist rebels, said once the released white paper by the “This revolution will trans- change. Communist Party of the Philip- Asian Development Bank (ADB). form everything, from economic The paper also called on pines (CPP)-NPA is declared a Done jointly with the World structures to social systems. ASEAN leaders to consider terrorist group, it would officially Economic Forum (WEF), the pa- Many aspects of our lives will crowdsourcing in policy formula- end the peace process. Bello not- per analyzed the impact of highly improve. But there will also be tion, in an effort to democratize ed that the government does not disruptive technologies — such many worrying challenges, such the process by establishing negotiate with terrorist groups. as artificial intelligence, robotics, as how automation and artificial feedback loops with citizens and Duterte announced his blockchain, 3D printing, sensors intelligence are replacing jobs. independent experts. Before intention to declare the National and the internet of things (IoT), We have to understand these adopting regulatory changes, Democratic Front (NDF)-CPP- drones, and renewable energy issues and have appropriate field testing could be done in NPA as a terrorist group through — on the region that is emerging policies to address them,” Nazir multiple countries in order to a proclamation he would sign as one of the world’s biggest con- Razak, chairman of Malaysia’s fine-tune policies to differing soon. The President said he is no longer inclined to continue the AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Restituto Padilla Jr. sumer markets. ASEAN groups CIMB Group Holdings and chair circumstances across the region. peace talks. (Photo: www.notey.com) Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, of the ASEAN Regional Strategy There is also a need to adopt AFP spokesman Maj. Gen. Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Group, was quoted in the ADB a merit-based recruitment model Restituto Padilla Jr. said it’s about Harry Roque said Duterte merely they (have been) for quite a long Myanmar, the Philippines, Sin- press release announcing the for the ASEAN secretariat and to time. “We totally agree with the agreed with the United States and time.” gapore, Thailand and Vietnam white paper’s findings. increase its operational budget. Commander-in-Chief in calling the European Union that the NPA Lacson claimed that the into a combined market that Justin Wood, head of Asia “The current funding level, the NPA (terrorists) because it is a terrorist group. “To begin NDF-CPP-NPA has abandoned is expected to be 400 million- Pacific and executive committee of roughly $20 million a year, is clearly reflected in the numer- with, the plan to declare the NPA their ideology for more than a strong in just three years. member at the WEF, was also is not enough. In 2014, the ous criminal, lawless, terrorist as terrorists is not new. The U.S. decade ago. “They burn, destroy, “The Fourth Industrial Rev- quoted as saying: “The tradi- ADB estimated that, by 2030, acts they have been committing is one of the first to classify the kill innocent civilians to terror- olution thus promises to unleash tional ways of shaping policy, the ASEAN secretariat would against defenseless and innocent NPA as a terrorist group when the ize; they terrorize to sow fear and a world of micro-transactions. At writing regulations and setting need an annual budget of $220 civilians,” Padilla said in a state- Patriot Act was enacted. The Eu- harass helpless civilians; they present, the value of e-commerce standards are too slow, too top- million to manage the ASEAN ment. ropean Union Council also classi- harass to extort under the guise in ASEAN stands at $9 billion, down and too backward-looking. Community effectively,” the The NDF is the umbrella of fied the NPA as a terrorist group,” of revolutionary taxation,” Lacson or about $14 per person. In the What is needed is an approach paper said. all communist groups in the coun- Roque said in a press briefing. said. People’s Republic of China, by that is much faster, more agile, “The technologies of the try, including front organizations. “If the President makes such Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV comparison, the value is $426 more experimental, and more Fourth Industrial Revolution do CPP is its political arm, while the declaration, that means he agrees would reserve his judgment until billion, or $327 per person, iterative.” not recognize national borders. NPA is the armed wing. that (members of) the NPAs are Duterte shows proof. “Until that which illustrates the size of the In short, ASEAN needs to If ASEAN leaders do not think “When the President men- really terrorists,” he added. day that Duterte actually fires all potential,” the paper noted. find a better way than consensus regionally, they will miss out on tioned that he might declare CPP- At the Senate, most members the communists in his Cabinet, As much as $625 billion of building in charting the region’s opportunities and fail to address NPA as a terrorist group, I am welcomed the plan. I will assume that this recurring new wealth could be generated future. The paper outlined growing challenges,” it con- sure he has moral and legal basis, Sen. Gregorio Honasan, threat to declare the CPP-NPA- throughout ASEAN from the seven ways that could accelerate cluded. taking into account that he has chairman of the Senate committee NDF as a terrorist organization increased productivity brought regional integration, the crucial These challenges include job the security sector that provides on national defense and security, is just lip service to appease and on by the Fourth Industrial first step being to transform losses and disruption, inequal- him the necessary information to said declaring the CPP-NPA a deceive the AFP,” Trillanes said. Revolution. Improved digital the ASEAN secretariat into a ity and political instability, come up with the decision,” Bello terrorist group was Duterte’s A senior military official, who connectivity means small- and platform organization that func- the end of traditional “Factory said. prerogative being the command- requested anonymity, told report- medium-sized enterprises and tions as convener and governor Asia,” concentration of market “We have given our position er-in-chief and having access to ers that Duterte’s decision was people living in remote areas of regional activities. In doing power by global giants, and more to the President and right now we sensitive information from his the right thing to do. The official can more readily access new so, it could delegate more func- exposure and vulnerability to are just waiting for his instruc- security advisers. also said that the NPA would lose markets and other opportuni- tions to third-party institutions cyberattacks. tion. But I am not at liberty to “If the U.S. declared the CPP- support if it would be branded as ties such as online courses and with specific management and disclose the recommendation of NPA-NDF a terrorist organiza- a terrorist group. FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955 HEALTH PROFESSIONALS, INC. Private Duty Home Care Registry/Staffing Provider Senior Referral Services Hiring experienced Caregivers, CNA, HHA, RN, PT, OT & SLP Come apply directly at our office during Monday through Friday 9AM-3PM 7216 Mission St., Daly City, CA 94014 T: (650) 997-3200 F: (650) 997-3204 WANTED ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES: Caregiver & Administrator FilAm Star, one of the fastest growing Experienced caregiver, CAN, LVN, RN, and Filipino-American newspaper companies is Administrator. For San Rafael. CA ARF Facility. expanding and has immediate openings. Flexible Hours, Competitive compensation. Live in position available. Please send resume to: Applicant may qualify for 15% to 20% [email protected] pay raise immediately. or call (650) 278-0692/ Please Email your resume and cover letter to (415) 593-5955 [email protected] or call 415-225-6868 November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star A5 sports Last seat Far Eastern U seeks to com- news plete a stunning reversal, while Ateneo hopes its impressive Nets gave Dubs a late scare season won’t go for naught. The stage is set for a dog- The Brooklyn Nets gave fight between the Blue Eagles and the Golden State Warriors a Tamaraws on Wednesday as they late scare in their game last dispute the right to face defend- ing champion La Salle in the Sunday when they almost best-of-three finals of UAAP Sea- overcame a 28-point deficit son 80 basketball tournament. mid third quarter to come as The Tamaraws forced a close as 5 points late in the do-or-die encounter with an fourth. With Curry leading the 80-67 dumping of the Eagles way for the Dubs the entire last Sunday in their initial Final game and fouling out with 3 Four meeting. But Ateneo coach minutes to go, the Warriors Tab Baldwin remains confident had to rely on Shaun Livings- enough that the Eagles can turn ton and Klay Thompson to the tables on the Tamaraws in their rubber match. finish the game with a final The Eagles won all but score of Warriors 118 and one of their 14 games in the Nets 111. elimination round, including two (Photo: www.dugout.ph) Omar Caspi started the victories over the Tamaraws, an game for the Warriors in place accomplishment that should give Tolentino and Hubert Cani doing The Tamaraws entered of Kevin Durant who was out Ateneo a morale boost heading some of the damage on both ends the Final Four with an even 7-7 with a sprained left ankle. into their most important game of the floor. FEU also got solid record, but looked sharper on Next game fot the War- of the season yet. games from graduating player both ends of the floor against rios is the Oklahoma City “We have a successful Ron Dennison and Richard the Eagles, whose only other loss season to fall back on in terms Escoto. came against fierce rival La Salle. Thunders on Wednesday in of looking for confidence,” said FEU coach Olsen Racela said “The tough games we went Oklahoma City. Warriors Baldwin. it would take more than their through in the elimination round improve their standing at 13 “So really, it’s about the performance last Sunday to over- helped us (against Ateneo),” said wins and 4 loses. coaching staff giving these play- come the Eagles in the decider. Racela. ers a message, something specific “It was our best game so far “But then again, it will (Photos: www.mercurynews.com) that they can look at and say, and we’re hoping that it happens be about defending Ateneo’s ‘Yes, we can do that.’ And go in Game 2,” said Racela, a rookie disciplined offense. We did that STREET TALK (We know innocent passage, it’s Point A to about doing it.” coach in the UAAP. last Sunday, but it’s not going ... FROM PAGE A6 Point B. But the Chinese ship was very slow. It The Tamaraws outplayed “Actually, I told the players to be enough on Wednesday so was stopping in one area to stay there for a few that we’re peaking at the right we have to find more ways to and outhustled the Eagles for on Scarborough Shoal actually encourages China days. And then it would transfer to another area. time so we’re looking forward to beat them.” (Cedelf P. Tupas / long stretches last Sunday with to build on Scarborough Shoal.” So that is not innocent passage.) former Ateneo players Arvin the game on Wednesday.” inquirer.net) Just as Trump’s intelligence branch do not Duterte has dismissed these apprehensions as alarmist. Describing the Philippines’ rosy rela- DRUG RAIDS ILLEGAL buy his fawning attitude towards Putin, Duterte’s Defense chief, retired Major General Delfin tions with China, he chimed,“Things are getting ... FROM PAGE A2 Lorenzana has expressed doubts about China’s great our way. Why spoil it?” privacy. supposedly harmless “innocent passage” through One astute observer, commenting on the “A citizen has the right to refuse entry [to the police] if there is no search warrant,” Diokno in- Philippine territory, as rationalized by Duterte. attitudes of Trump and Duterte, described the sisted. Said Lorenzana in a media interview, “Alam former as “devious, with something to hide” and 14,000 drug killings mo naman ‘yung innocent passage, Point A to the latter as “naïve, with a yellow streak.” Butuyan, the lawyer for the petitioners from San Andres Bukid, said the unabated drug killings in Point B. Napakabagal eh. Tapos tumitigil sa isang Then he asked the rhetorical question: the country, which rights groups say now number about 14,000, started right after Mr. Duterte won lugar. Magtagal doon ng ilang araw. Lipat naman Which attitude is better? To which he also gave the presidency and following the issuance of the DILG and PNP circulars. sa kabilang lugar. So that is not innocent pas- the answwer: “NOTA. None of the above.” (greg- “Never in our history as a people has it happened that state agents, our police, admitted to being sage,” he said. [email protected]) responsible for thousands of civilian killings and never in our history as a country has thousands of killings been justified on the basis of a government circular,” Butuyan said. PERRYSCOPE Well, Trump got off the hook easily. The Pun- The high tribunal summoned PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa, Interior Undersecretary Catalino Cuy, ... FROM PAGE A6 isher spared him. He was able to “discuss” human Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Director General Aaron Aquino and Dangerous Drugs Board of- rights with the Punisher, albeit in passing. Indeed, ficial Marlowe Pedregosa to show up at the continuation of the oral arguments on Nov. 28. age has its advantage after all. But the boyish- The last thing Trump would want to see is to start a looking Trudeau, who has the temerity of a tiger but Also directed to attend the next hearing were National Police Commission Vice Chair and Execu- word war, which is worse than World War III where a novice in the art of war, had incurred the wrath of tive Officer Rogelio Casurao and PNP Internal Affairs Service chief Alfegar Triambulo. (Marlon Ramos nobody has to suffer because all humankind will be the Punisher. ([email protected]) / inquirer.net) annihilated. A6 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 opinion Street Talk PerryScope Trump’s Russia, Duterte’s China Trudeau incurs the wrath of the Punisher GREG B. MACABENTA Inc. to recall the shipping containers. This is in PERRY DIAZ Siegfried and Roy ing ISIS and cooling down other hot spots around contradiction to what the BOC had found out had a long-running and the world. At the urging of his when it inspected the cargo. very successful act at the Ranking former officials of the US intel- Filipino-Canadian con- Theoretically possible Mirage Casino in Las ligence services have bluntly described this ap- stituents, Prime Minister Trudeau is now saying that it is “now Vegas. The act featured proach as naïve. Justin Trudeau dared to theoretically possible” for Canada to remove the two white tigers that did In the case of Duterte, “military blackmail” bring up “human rights” trash. However, he explained that several issues marvelous tricks at the appears to be the reason for his attitude towards when he met with Philip- need to be worked out, including who should crack of the trainers’ China, which his critics have characterized as pine president Rodrigo bear financial responsibility? He said that “legal whips. Then one day, one passive-to-meek-to-fawning. “The Punisher” Duterte barriers and restrictions” are preventing Canada of the tigers attacked Roy Duterte has not been embarrassed to admit at the end of the 31st from taking the trash back. “Those impediments and mauled him within an inch of his life. The act that going to war with China would mean total Summit of Association of have now been addressed,” Trudeau said during a has since been cancelled and the rogue tiger has destruction for the Philippines. Never mind that Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Western press briefing. Malacañang responded by saying been put to sleep. this renders meaningless the words of the Philip- nations in Manila. Had Trudeau taken the cue that Duterte has faith that Trudeau will keep his The obvious lesson here is that no matter pine national anthem that vows, “Aming ligaya from former U.S. president Barack Obama, he promise to resolve the garbage issue. how masterful you believe you are as an animal na pag may mangaapi, ang mamatay nang dahil would have skipped the subject matter. But like One has to feel sorry for Trudeau because, trainer, you never know when a wild beast will sa iyo” (the original English lyrics went, “But it is they say: the devil made him do it. (1) he wasn’t the Prime Minister when the turn on you. That lesson holds true not just for glory, ever when thou art wronged for us thy sons Obama, who tried to “lecture” Duterte on garbage was shipped to the Philippines; and (2) those training tigers but also for heads of state to suffer and die”). human rights last year at the ASEAN summit in he can’t find a way to go around Canadian law, who fancy themselves good at dealing with the But Duterte and his apologists do not end Laos last year, earned the epithet of Duterte who which does not provide a mechanism to compel Russian bear and the Chinese dragon. there. They unabashedly cite the carrot and stick warned that if Obama asked his government’s the return of illegal shipments to the port of ori- American media and the US intelligence analogy, pointing out that belligerence towards extrajudicial killings, “Putang ina (“son of a bitch” gin. In other words, the Philippines is stuck with community still cannot fathom the relationship China, which they attribute to the administration in Filipino), I will swear at you.” Well, Obama garbage that nobody wants. that President Donald Trump has or wants to of President Benigno Aquino III, only got Philip- cancelled their meeting and said that Duterte was Ultimately, Trudeau, who is now under develop with Russia’s Vladimir Putin. Since his pine exports banned, while making friends with a “colorful guy.” pressure from world leaders to remove the trash, election to the presidency and up to his visit to the Chinese has generated economic benefits. Indeed, Trudeau was only among a few world would have to bite the bullet and do what is right: Asia to attend the ASEAN Summit, Trump has Early this year, after a three-day visit to leaders who daringly raised the issue of human take back the garbage at Canada’s cost. He is spoken through both sides of his mouth on the China, Duterte announced that he had wangled rights at the ASEAN summit. Known for cham- putting his reputation on the line as a strong issue of Russian meddling in the last US presi- several investment and financing agreements pioning human rights, Trudeau told a Canadian advocate for climate change. He has to exert a dential elections, in spite of its implications of amounting to $24 billion - $15 billion in invest- reporter that he discussed the issue with Duterte strong political will to settle this stinking mess. national security. ments and $9 billion in terms of credit facilities. when they met for the ASEAN-Canada Commem- Failure to do so would put a dark cloud over his In response to questions by media about his According to him, the bonanza would generate at orative Summit. He told Duterte that Canada was political future. stand on allegations of Russia’s interference with least two million jobs. “concerned” over the human rights violations and Duterte on the other hand reacted with his the very foundation of American democracy, the Duterte further declared that, as part of extrajudicial killings happening in the Philippines usual expletive-laden attacks. He considered US intelligence community’s findings that con- a $10 billion investment package, “China has as a result of Duterte’s “war on drugs” which has Trudeau’s comments as an “insult” both at per- firmed this interference, and Putin’s denial of the promised us, for all their goodness…to build two claimed the lives of thousands of drug suspects. sonal and official levels. “It angers me when you allegation, Trump said that he believed Putin. bridges over the Pasig River. Free. Gratis. And I He said in a press conference: “I also mentioned are a foreigner and you do not know exactly what In the next breath, he also said that he be- bow in gratitude.” human rights, the rule of law and specifically ex- is happening in this country. You do not inves- lieved the US intelligence service. One social media pundit pointed out that the trajudicial killings as being an issue that Canada tigate … I only answer to the Filipino. I will not Huh??? loan comes with “strings attached,” to which a is concerned with. “I impressed on him the need answer to any other bullshit, especially foreign- On the other hand, political observers and kibitzer quipped, “You mean, a string of islands for respect for the rule of law, and as always of- ers. Lay off,” he said. concerned citizens are watching with growing attached.” fered Canada’s support and help as a friend to But following Trudeau’s informal meet- concern the seeming passivity towards China of However, like Trump, Duterte has also spo- move forward on what is a real challenge.” ing with Duterte, Trudeau told the media, ”We the notoriously pugnacious and foul-mouthed ken through both sides of his mouth in explaining Tons of garbage impressed upon him the need to respect the rule President Rodrigo Duterte. This, in spite of his stand on the South China Sea issue. He has But notwithstanding the appeals from of law and, as always, offered Canada’s support China’s undisguised encroachment on parts of repeatedly insisted that he would not give up an Filipino-Canadians, Trudeau’s trip to Manila and help as a friend to help move forward. This is the South China Sea being claimed by the Philip- inch of Philippine territory in his dealings with was confronted with another issue: Canadian the way we engage with the world, this is the way pines. China. trash dumped in Manila – 2,500 tons declared we always will.” Then he added, diplomatically, Everyone who has appeared to cross Duterte Yet, after being cautioned that China was as “recyclable plastic scrap materials.” Chronic “The President was receptive to my comments has gotten an earful of invectives, including the covetously eyeing more and more Philippine ter- Plastics Incorporated (CPI), an export company and it was throughout a very cordial and posi- Pope himself – everyone but Chinese President ritory, while ostensibly setting up an environment base in Ontario, Canada, shipped it in 2013. It tive exchange.” But Duterte later told the media President Xi Jinping. monitoring station in the area, Duterte replied was consigned to Live Green Enterprise. that he had refused to provide an explanation for If Trump, in his own “Trumpish” way, has that it could not be prevented from doing so, In January 2014, the Bureau of Customs the killings, which by some estimates is placed been trying to “strike a balance” in his attitude besides which the Philippines could not afford to (BOC) discovered the garbage when they opened between 7,000 and 10,000 drug users in first year towards Putin and America’s intelligence com- go to war with China. the container vans as part of procedures on of his presidency. munity, he promptly torpedoed that by calling the In a piece I wrote in March this year, I re- shipments not claimed for a long period of time. Can’t win this battle latter “political hacks.” counted that Duterte’s refrain of being no match What they found was plastic bottles, plastic bags, It’s interesting to note that while Trudeau That has not been the first time Trump has for China’s military power caused Senior Su- newspapers, household garbage, and used adult had courageously brought up the issue of human spoken unflatteringly about America’s intel- preme Court Associate Justice Antonio Carpio to diapers. The garbage was then classified as “haz- rights and extrajudicial killings with Duterte, ligence service, or about everyone and anyone point out sharply: ardous” as per Toxic Substances and Hazardous Trump avoided the subject – uncharacteristically whose views he does not agree with, including “The President is the Commander-in-Chief and Nuclear Waste and Control Act of 1990, or -- when the two met. Trump’s press secretary leaders of the Republican Party. of the Armed Forces which are expressly tasked Republic Act 6969. Sarah Huckabee Sanders said that human rights On the other hand, in spite of overwhelming by the Constitution to defend the national terri- In February 2014, the BOC filed a smug- came up “briefly in the context of the Philippines’ evidence of Russian meddling with the US elec- tory.” gling complaint against Adelfa Eduardo, owner fight against illegal drugs.” After their meeting, tions – not to mention Putin’s hand in the Syrian Assuming that “the Philippines is no match of Chronic Plastics, and its licensed Customs they issued a joint statement saying they “un- conflict and other sensitive international issues to China militarily” Carpio suggested five things brokers Leonora Flores and Shejun Saldon, for derscored that human rights and the dignity of – Trump has avoided saying anything against the Duterte could do, first of which was to “file a violating the Tariff and Customs Code of the human life are essential, and agreed to continue Russian leader. strong protest” against China’s activities. Philippines. mainstreaming the human rights agenda in their This has led the media, the political opposi- “This is the least that the President should In 2015, the Manila City Council adopted national programs.” tion and skeptical Americans to speculate that do,” said Carpio.. a resolution seeking to remove the 50 shipping Trump’s soft-pedaling on the issue of human Putin has something on Trump or that the issue But the most stinging advice that Carpio containers. Today, the container vans are still at rights may have prevented another outburst from of “collusion” between the Russians and Trump’s gave was: “Avoid any act, statement or declara- the Port of Manila. Duterte, who would have gone ballistic. Trump campaign team will eventually lead Special Coun- tion that expressly or impliedly waives Philippine But Canada had said that taking the garbage probably thought that this is one battle he’s not sel Robert Mueller to the front steps of the White sovereignty to any Philippine territory in the back is not that easy due to legalities. A spokes- going to win. He’d rather taunt North Korea’s House and all the way to the Oval Office. West Philippine Sea. This will preserve for future person for Canada’s Department of Foreign Af- leader Kim Jong-un, which would keep his Yet, Trump’s apologists blithely argue that generations of Filipinos their national patrimony fairs, Trade and Development had said that there political base agitated and revved up, than treat Trump’s approach is a practical and realistic in the West Philippine Sea. Any statement that was nothing hazardous in the material shipped another loose cannon like a Sicilian Mafia don. way of dealing with Putin, the better to get his the Philippines cannot stop China from building and that no laws exist to force Ontario Chronic TO PAGE A5 cooperation in solving the Syrian crisis, eliminat- TO PAGE A5

informed later that their first true thanksgiving was in 1623, when they gave thanks for rain that ended a drought. These As I See It early thanksgivings took the form of a special church service, rather than a feast, at that time. It was George Washington, the first president of the United States, who proclaimed the The Opinions expressed by our writers and What good can Thanksgiving bring us? first national Thanksgiving Day in 1789. contributors do not in any way reflect the If there is an event that can unite a family, it’s Thanks- opinion of the management of Fortune News ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO giving Day! Every year, people are looking forward to Thanks- Texas and my other daughter Tweety leaving for Las Vegas giving Day! It is traditionally a day for families and friends Media Inc. in two days. My two sons Jayson and Paul came home early to get together… for a special meal. Let’s not forget, however, Fortune News Media Inc. Most people think of from work and they helped my wife Delia prepare one huge that this is a day for us to thank God for all the blessings be- Publisher good food, cheerful gather- steak for the family plus other food… no turkey though! After stowed on us. And… there are a lot of things to be thankful of! ings, and a motley of fun when saying the grace and thanking the Lord for all the graces Most government offices, businesses, schools and other Harvey Barkin Thanksgiving Day comes! showered upon us, we started eating the food prepared organizations are closed on Thanksgiving Day. I also observed Editor-in-Chief What people may not know mostly by our children. Our daughter Gigi and husband that public transit systems do not usually operate on their Edwina Aniag is that it is traditionally a day Eric in Sydney, Australia joined us via FB time and son Jojo regular timetables giving only a few trips for commuters. for families and friends to get and wife Alvi and their two daughters Kayla and Bibay from Vice President for Marketing and Operations Thanksgiving Day is indeed one of the busiest periods for together and be thankful of Jacksonville, Florida also joined us in a chat time. It’s family travel in the US. Gary De Guzman many things amidst a special in unison reciting the blessings we had all the years and the For Filipinos in the US, Thanksgiving is a family Vice President for Community Relations meal. Take note, “for a special years to come. day! On this day of gathering, the family gather together in meal”. Last Wednesday, the San Jose Job Corps family cel- celebrating the holiday. The family is serving as the conduit Anchet Manosca I was reminded when I attended a Thanksgiving service ebrated a Pot Luck Thanksgiving Day for staff organized by in every aspect of life, every success… actually, it is the bridge Creative and Production Manager a couple of years ago on a Sunday at the Liberty Church in the Incentive Committee with a theme “Joy is the simplest in coping up with stress and failures, the medium in sharing form of gratitude,” by Karl Barth. It was held at the Gym with Atty. Crispin Lozano San Jose on invitation of my niece Leonor “Jeng” Estioko memories, the glue in overcoming difficulties, the catalyst in Castillo and her husband Simo, something attracted me most. the Center providing main dishes of turkey, ham, mashed pushing projects, and the support in addressing concerns. Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis Pastor Smith said, “I like the notice outside our church. It potatoes, stuffing, and veggies. Every department brought in Blood family, nuclear family, extended family… name it, Ben Lou / Perry Diaz says ‘Thanksgiving is not about great food… Thanksgiving is their assigned food ranging from appetizers, drinks, cakes, family matters in all aspects of life and Thanksgiving Day is Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko about our great God”. fruits, etc. Center officials led by Center Director Leslie Gilroy a reminder to all these concerns. Knowing its importance as Columnists That’s a fact that many of us tend to forget. I do believe and Deputy Center Director Chris Allen took turns in thank- a unit and its potential in shaping society… the family needs Macon Ramos-Araneta that everything we have comes from the Lord. We need to be ing the staff in collectively helping the students succeed in to be strengthened, it has to be renewed, it must be nurtured, Corina Oliquino / Lara Climaco thankful of Him for giving us all blessings in life. So we thank their educational endeavor. and it needs constant reaffirmation of affection and caring for Daniel Llanto Him for the blessings of life, good relationship, for giving On Thursday, a Thanksgiving dinner for friends and one another, not only during Thanksgiving Day. No wonder, Correspondents us work, for our children, for good health, and many more. relatives was tendered by couple Eric and Tiffany Aquino at Dr. Demetrio Nitafan, Publisher of the defunct Philippine Di- “If we count our blessings, we will be amazed there’s a lot their home in Hayward, California. gest, in his editorial, proposed August as a Family Month. He Ann Gauna of them,” Pastor Smith said. Yes, there’s a lot of things to be In some cities, Thanksgiving Day parades are held believes that if Mother’s Day and Father’s Day are observed, Marketing Associate thankful of… including small things we sometimes forget to which marks the opening of the Christmas shopping season. among other reasons, why not a family month? notice. They mean a lot in our daily life. Well, some people have a four-day weekend, so it is a popular Of course, Dr. Nitafan has valid reasons. In fact, I Jho Bule Pastor Smith went on to recite Biblical passages, mostly time for trips and to visit family and friends. support his proposal because I see all the potentials and Photographer in Psalms, saying that being grateful makes us feel better, bet- Most government offices, businesses, schools and other capabilities of a family as a catalyst of change, not only for the ter witness, more composed, and improves our relationships organizations are closed on Thanksgiving Day. I also observed immediate family but also to the extended family, or any type Glenda Bule with each other. “Thank you” to him, is the magic word that that public transit systems do not usually operate on their of family for that matter in particular and the whole society Event Coordinator opens a lot of avenues and opportunities in life… in fact, even regular timetables giving only a few trips for commuters. in general. at work, and everywhere we go! Thanksgiving Day is indeed one of the busiest periods for All said, I would like to thank The Almighty for guiding FilAm Star is published weekly Of course, this is an inner reflection on our part but we travel in the USA. my family throughout the years up to where we are today. My by Fortune News Media Inc. can’t ignore the fact that it’s the food and fun that makes us For immigrants like me, it is a surprise for us to know family of seven (my wife plus 5 of my 6 children) came to the www.filamstar.com congregate on Thanksgiving Day. that Thanksgiving Day has been an annual holiday in the US as immigrants in 1997 when the US economy started to The meal often includes a turkey, stuffing, potatoes, United States since 1863. Unlike in the Philippines, this day crumble. But with the guidance of the Lord, we were able to Headquarters: cranberry sauce, gravy, pumpkin pie, and vegetables. All is a big day for Americans. There are reports that the first survive and weather all odds Breaking the Chain of Poverty 1028 Mission St., 2/F, kinds of pies are bought into the table for everybody to savor. Thanksgiving Day was held in the city of El Paso, Texas in (title of my upcoming book on immigration) to achieve The San Francisco, CA 94103; Thanksgiving Day is a time for many people to give thanks for 1598 and another early event was celebrated in 1619 in the American Dream! Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 what they have before partaking a sumptuous meal. Virginia Colony. As to the origins of the modern Thanksgiving Happy Thanksgiving to all! Email: [email protected] Last Sunday, my family had an early Thanksgiving in Day, many people trace it to the harvest celebration that the (For feedbacks, comments… please email the author at our Milpitas home with my daughter May coming back from Pilgrims held in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621. We were [email protected]). November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star A7 CHINA TELCO TO COMPETE break-up of the duopoly by delaying the use of REVOLUTIONARY GOV’T can be forcibly removed from his office if he in- ... FROM PAGE A1 satellites as a viable option.” ... FROM PAGE A1 sists on declaring a revolutionary government to Roque said the National Broadband Plan, crush communists and those whom he perceived internet speeds. which sought to address the long-standing issue The former PNP chief said he does not to be “enemies of the state.” “This should be unacceptable; our country- of Internet connection quality in the Philippines, believe the President is serious in his threat of “Those asking for a so-called RevGov or men deserve better,” stressed the Senator. Earlier however, would still allow PLDT and Globe to ben- a revolutionary government, also because the revolutionary government under Duterte should this year the Senate chief urged the National efit at the end of the day under Salalima’s plan. Filipino people will not back it. be careful what they wish for,” she said. Telecommunications Commission (NTC) to direct “It was also observed that the initial costs for Unlike martial law, he said which has a sus- “A revolutionary government means the the country’s telcos to adopt Mobile Number a national broadband plan appeared excessive at pension of writ and is in the Constitution under abrogation of the Constitution, the only thing that Portabilty (MNP) to spur competition among the PHP 200 billion because the recommendation certain circumstances. is keeping Duterte president of the country. With- Philippines’ telecom giants. did not consider the contribution that could be “But a revolutionary government may only be out the Constitution, there is no longer any legal MNP is a feature that allows mobile phone made by existing broadband providers such as the established after a revolution. There’s no revolu- basis for keeping Duterte in power,” she added. subscribers to retain their mobile phone numbers National Grid Corporation, the National Trans- tion like a change of leadership (as in the time Last October, Duterte threatened to set even if they switch to a different carrier. mission Corporation, Fiber Optic Alliance and of) former President (Cory) Aquino, there was a up a revolutionary government and declare all the Philippine National Railway Communication Under the current system, the first four revolutionary government that was lifted im- positions in government vacant if the supposed Project,” Roque said. numbers of a mobile phone number are assigned mediately to (get) back to normalcy,” explained attempts to de-stabilize his administration turn “Now, it would also appear that under the to specific carriers, thus forcing mobile phone Lacson. out for the worst. scheme being pushed by the former secretary of subscribers to change numbers when switching to Aquino established a revolutionary govern- In the absence of Duterte’s constitutional the DICT, the NBP terrestrial backbone would still a different telco. ment that lasted for a year and a half after the mandate with the abolition of the Constitution, have left the duopoly with the right to connect the Malacañang’s on November 20 announced February 1986 People Power Revolution that De Lima explained the AFP, which is possibly end users to the backbone,” he added. that the President directed the Office of the toppled strongman Ferdinand Marcos. the only government institution that will survive Roque’s announcement came after the Presi- Executive Secretary (OES) to hasten the entry He noted that Cory Aquino also abrogated the without the constitution, is likely to grab power dent ordered the creation of an inter-agency body for itself since it is no longer bound to recognize of a third telecommunications company in the that would review the National Broadband Plan 1973 Constitution and appointed a Constitutional Duterte as president. country. following Salalima’s resignation. Commission to craft a new Charter, which was According to De Lima, the AFP – who can Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque He said consumers can look forward now to ratified in February 1987. lead the country through a military council or disclosed that during bilateral talks with Chinese better telecommunications, not just in terms of Opposition Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV also junta led by its chosen generals – “does not have Premier Chinese Premier Li Keqiang, Duterte cellular technology but also in terms of Internet echoed the views of Lacson. He believes the mili- any reason” to tolerate Duterte, who is tagged as “offered to the People’s Republic of China the speed as well as access. tary will not support a revolutionary government. China’s lackey. privilege to operate the third telecommunications Sen. Grace Poe said the entry of qualified He said the mandate of the military is very carrier in the country.” foreign players into the telco market would be a clear -- that they would uphold the Constitution. She pointed out that the image of Duterte Roque said all applications will be filed and welcome development. Healthy competition could “That’s simple, no debates among the soldiers.” kowtowing to China and selling out the Spratlys is acted upon directly by the OES, per the Presi- lead to better services for the consumers. How- “If the President (gets out of) the Constitu- notorious among the generals and junior officers. dent’s instructions. ever, current laws would not allow this. tion, he (is) rebellious,” stressed Trillanes. The AFP, De Lima said, has never felt any He also said the government will take 45 “This is why I filed SBN 1441, which seeks The former navy captain also said the Presi- affinity to the number one external security threat days to determine which offer will be taken. As to amend the antiquated Public Service Act that dent merely wants to put on a scare with a threat to the Philippines. foreign-owned companies, the telco proposals would confine the definition of “public utility” to (made out of) his “stupidity.” In the absence of Duterte’s constitutional will have to be consistent with the constitutional natural monopolies, which are the transmission “What he wants to do is set aside the law, the mandate with the abolition of the Constitution, provision limiting foreign ownership of compa- and distribution of electricity, and water works Constitution so he can do what he wants,” said she said the AFP’s generals and junior officers nies in the Philippines to 40 percent. and sewerage systems as it should,” she said. Trillanes. have no reason whatsoever to continue tolerating Saying the process of breaking the duopoly These “natural monopolies” will still be re- “‘Yung pananakot ni Duterte ng revolutionary a civilian leader who has not shown any resolve “should have been sooner,” Roque said former stricted by the constitutional limitation on foreign government ay dulot ng kapraningan niya. He is in asserting the Philippines’ hard-fought victory Department of Information and Communications ownership (60-40 percent). hoping that those investigating him and the crit- before the Arbitral Tribunal at The Hague. Technology Sec. Rodolfo Salalima failed to act on As chairman of the Committee on Public Ser- ics of his administration will backtrack,” he said. Because of this, she said the AFP’s external certain proposals ― including those for a Luzon vices, Poe said she would push for its immediate Meanwhile, Lacson rejected the assertion defense position in the country’s territories in the Bypass Infrastructure recently signed between passage in the Senate, and had, in fact, scheduled of Sen. Francis Pangilinan that a revolutionary West Philippine Sea has been weakened. the Philippine government and a subsidiary of for a hearing on this as soon as the Senate con- government is similar to dictatorship. He said the The detained Senator over drug charges also Facebook. cludes its deliberations on the TRAIN and budget creation of a revolutionary government would said Duterte’s looming threat for a revolutionary Roque said the agreement with the subsidiary bills. not even be unconstitutional since it is not in the government is now the most immediate domestic of Facebook should have been signed as early as Sen. Paolo Benigno Aquino said he was happy Constitution. threat to the country December 2016. But it was not signed by Salalima that the President recognized the need to improve He also challenged the public to look for “The sooner the AFP realizes this, the better and this was one of the areas pinpointed by Cabi- the telecommunications through competition but a provision in the Constitution under certain it can respond to this adventurist threat, if it does net investigators as an area of conflict of interest “we should limit it to only one country.” circumstances when a revolutionary government not choose first to grab power for itself. Who for the former secretary of the DICT. He said if a small country like Singapore had can be established. needs Duterte and his aristocracy of the worst “It was further reported by the special six players in the telco sector, this kind of competi- But Lacson admitted he did not know Du- and banal of public officials, if the military has investigating committee that the former DICT tion should also prevail in the Philippines. terte’s motive in making the threat. so much more talent to offer from its ranks than secretary likewise may have prevented the earlier Pangilinan, the Liberal Party president, Duterte’s dysfunctional lot of ‘the best and bright- raised alarm over Duterte’s threat of a revolution- est’?” she asked. PH GDP GROWTH pattern had been noted during the 2004 and ary government, stressing that it is just the same “We should never welcome a military take- ... FROM PAGE A1 2010 election years. In 2004, GDP growth during with dictatorship. over. But because of this infantile call to declare a the third quarter stood at 6.1 percent but dropped “No more democracy, freedom of the press revolutionary government, that is exactly what we in public spending, which then boosted the to 4.2 percent the following year. In 2010, the Q3 and freedom of speech,” also said Pangilinan. might end up with, and Duterte’s head at the end manufacturing subsector and the services sector,” GDP growth was at a high 7.3 percent before fall- Pangilinan also warned there would be no of a stake,” she added. said Ernesto Pernia, socio-economic planning ing to 3.1 percent in 2011. more elections if Duterte pushes through with his In the House of Representatives, Albay Rep. secretary and director-general of the National “For this year, the variance is minimal with threat as there would only be term extension for Edcel Lagman said a revolutionary government to Economic and Development Authority. GDP growth registering 7.1 percent in the third incumbents and appointments, the opposition be imposed by the President has neither constitu- Pernia noted that the Philippines remains quarter of last year versus 6.9 percent this year,” leader said. tional anchorage nor historical ancestry. one of the best performing economies in Asia, it noted. “No more hindrance to sell our lands and “No amount of de-stabilization, chaos or likely to rank second to Vietnam with GDP “Our outlook on the Philippine economy re- seas to China. No one can express dissent to the designs to topple the government will justify growth at 7.5 percent and ahead of China and mains bright. Rest assured that your government government’s wrong-doings as those who oppose Duterte’s projected declaration of a RevGov,” he Indonesia with their respective 6.8 percent and will not let up in its efforts to accelerate growth will be imprisoned.” said. 5.1 percent performance. and secure a more comfortable life for all. The The Senator added that this would result in “A revolutionary government emerges as an The government disbursed PHP 172.9 billion DBM is also committed to firm up government “unparalleled abuse, killings and corruption.” aftermath of a successful people’s revolution like for capital outlays during the third quarter, of disbursements as we aim for our full-year PHP “Just like the excessively abusive war against the EDSA People Power Revolution. A current which PHP 142.1 billion went to infrastructure 2.909 trillion disbursement target,” it quoted drugs, (revolutionary government) will be abusive dispensation does not stage a coup d’état against projects lined up under the Duterte adminis- Diokno as saying. as well,” he said. itself,” he added. tration’s “Build, Build, Build” program, which For its part, the Department of Finance (DoF) The Philippines last suffered a dictatorship Like what Duterte did to the entire island-re- targets infrastructure spending at 5.3 percent touted record levels in the country’s gross inter- during the regime of the late Ferdinand Marcos, gion of Mindanao, Lagman said the Chief Execu- of GDP for the year and gradually rising to 7.4 national reserves (GIR), overseas remittances and who ruled the country for 20 years until he was tive “can declare martial law when public safety percent of GDP by 2022. For the third quarter, earnings from the business process outsourcing ousted in 1986 through a bloodless people power requires it” if “chaos, de-stabilization and ouster government disbursements for infrastructure (BPO) sector alongside manageable debt servic- revolt. movement constitute invasion or rebellion.” and other capital outlays grew by 15.4 percent ing. Sen. Leila de Lima earlier warned of a mili- “However, such imposition of martial law is while private consumer spending slackened from Official data placed GIR at $80.62 billion tary takeover if Duterte pushes through with his subject to the oversight powers of the Congress 7.2 percent to 4.5 percent year-on-year. Holiday as of end-October, with overseas remittances at threat to declare a revolutionary government to and the Supreme Court. The President cannot spending during the Christmas season is expected $18.6 billion as of August this year. Meanwhile, quell de-stabilization plans by some opponents. institute a reactionary government branded as a to boost household consumption. BPO earnings for 2017 are projected at $24.5 De Lima, a staunch defender of democracy RevGov to evade the restrictions of martial law “Imagine if both public and private spend- billion, according to the DoF. Debt servicing also and freedom, cautioned the public that Duterte under the 1987 Constitution,” he said. went down to PHP 582.2 billion as of September ing are both on a roll. We are likely to see the PH RANKED 12TH recorded by the investigation. this year from the comparative year-ago level of economy steadily going on an upward trajectory,” ... FROM PAGE A1 “More countries experienced at least one Pernia said in his statement during the launch of PHP 696.19 billion. death from terrorism. This is more than at any “Expect a more riveting growth narrative in the Q3 results. bers of fatalities from terrorism since 2002, ac- time in the past 17 years and reflects an increase the fourth quarter and onwards as the Duterte The course is firm, as noted by Budget Sec. counting for 85 per cent of the total deaths in the from 65 countries in 2015 to 77 in 2016,” the administration shifts to higher gear its unparal- Benjamin Diokno. “In the past, economic growth region,” the Index reported. Index revealed. leled investment and stimulus program on the usually takes a deep nose dive after an election Since 2002, the Philippines along with neigh- The Index added that more nations have also strength of the government’s greater absorptive year. This is not the case anymore owing to our boring Thailand and Myanmar have seen the experienced at least one attack from 95 in 2015 capacity and its resolve to advance its ‘Build, sound macro-economic fundamentals and eco- largest increases in terrorist activity, the Index to 106 in 2016, “resulting in a Global Terrorism Build, Build’ infra program as the main driver of nomic policies,” he was quoted in an agency press also noted. Index (GTI) score deterioration of four percent in the economy,” it said, quoting Finance Sec. Carlos release. “In 2016, these three countries accounted 2015.” Dominguez III. The Department of Budget and Management for 94 per cent of attacks, which is a significant In a report by The Philippine Star, despite (DBM) pointed out in its press release that the increase from 55 per cent in 2002. This increase major setbacks by the Islamic State in its strong- is due to varying factors in each country,” the holds in Iraq and Syria this year, a more troubling DANGEROUS DRUGS BOARD the DDB’s budget. Index read. development is playing out: the potential for ... FROM PAGE A1 “This is an extravagant use of government In 2016 in the Philippines, “jihadist forces hardened fighters and leaders to leave Iraq and resources and an abuse of power,” wrote the DDB took control of the city of Marawi on Mindanao Syria to join new radical permutations of ISIS or country to waste the money without permission employees in their letter. Island for many months.” its affiliates in other countries. of the authorities, in this case, the President, they Santiago was also been accused of receiving According to Trading Economics, terrorism “Philippine security forces are on the look- have to go. But I don’t make public my dismissals gifts and favors from drug lords, including Ozam- index in the Philippines has decreased to 7.10 in out for returning ISIS fighters from the Middle to spare them the humiliation,” he added. iz City Mayor Reynaldo Parojinog, back when he 2015 from 7.24 in 2014 while it averaged 6.62 East, just weeks after they crushed an attempt by The President said he should have mini- was PDEA chief under the Arroyo administration. from 2002 until 2016, ‘reaching an all-time high ISIS-inspired militants to establish a caliphate in mized corruption by the third year of his adminis- Parojinog was killed during a police anti-drug of 7.27 in 2014 and a record low of 5.78 in 2006.’ the Islamic city of Marawi,” the report read. tration. Aside from drugs and criminality, he had raid last July. He was among the local executives Terrorism in the Asia-Pacific Region The Marawi siege resulted in the deaths of promised to rid the government of corruption. in Duterte’s list of top drug suspects. According to the Index, the Asia-Pacific more than 1,000 people, mostly combatants and Meanwhile, Presidential Spokesman Harry Santiago has denied that he and his family region had the third lowest impact from terror- the displacement of at least 360,000 people and Roque revealed on November 20, that former went on a European junket at the expense of the ism. However, there is a wide variation among the destruction of the lakeside city’s center. Dangerous Drugs Board (DDB) Chairman Dioni- government as alleged in a letter-complaint sup- the countries in the region, with “the Philippines The government has also estimated at least sio Santiago was fired by Duterte, not just for his posedly coming from the DDB employees’ union. ranking 12th globally while six countries includ- Php50-billion would be needed to rehabilitate public statements, but also for supposedly going He insisted his trip to Vienna to attend a con- ing Mongolia, North Korea and Papua New Guin- and reconstruct the whole province ravaged by on “extravagant” trips abroad and bringing his ference on illegal drugs was covered by a travel ea all rank 134th as they have not experienced a the Maute-ISIS group. “mistress” along with him. authority from Malacañang. He said his family terrorist incident in the last five years.” “When examining the drivers of terrorism, “He was also let go because of complaints caught up with him in Budapest but added that “Over the last 15 years, there has been a 720 the presence of armed conflict, political violence that Gen. Santiago was using taxpayers’ money his loved ones paid their own way. percent increase in the number of terrorist at- by governments, political exclusion and group for junkets abroad… In addition to bringing fam- Regarding his alleged links to Parojinog, the tacks from 106 in 2002 to 870 in 2016,” the Index grievances remain critical factors,” the report ily members, Santiago brought six of his closest former DDB chairman said it was a different San- reported. said. personnel, including a ‘girl Friday,’” said Roque. tiago who was implicated in the complaint raised In 2002, the study noted that there were 350 According to GTI, the global impact of ter- One complaint which made the accusation in the letter. terrorism-related deaths in the region, and these rorism also declined to $84 billion in 2016 from a was dated October 25 and was filed by the DDB “Where did he get his data? Am I the boy- figures increased to 744 in 2014 but declined to higher figure in 2015. Employees’ Union. friend of Nova? It’s also a Santiago but not 469 in 2016. “Although this is significant, the economic Roque said Santiago reportedly took trips to me,” he said. Nova is the daughter of the late Global and economic impact of terrorism impact of terrorism is still small compared to Vienna, Austria and the United States to attend Parojinog. In the global setting, the Index noted that other forms of violence,” the index noted. meetings on combating drugs in his capacity as Duterte recently asked Santiago to resign 2017 is a turning point in the fight against terror- “This amount is only one percent of the DDB chief. after he questioned the viability of the mega ism and extremism as there is “a decline in the total global economic impact of violence, which But while only his presence was required at rehabilitation center built in Nueva Ecija. Only number of deaths from terrorist attacks to 25,673 reached $14.3 trillion in 2016,” the index added the conferences, he allegedly brought along “his 400 patients are in the facility that could house which represents a 22-percent improvement from while also warning that the financial impact was mistress and (selected) favorite DDB employees” 10,000. its peak in 2014.” conservative as “this did not include indirect im- – their expenses were also supposedly charged to Despite this year’s improvement, trends were pacts on business, investment and security costs.” A8 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 business & BOP swings to $368-million deficit in October The country’s balance of Governor Nestor A. Espenilla settled at a $400-million deficit. tech news payments position swung to a Jr. said in a statement. The BOP is a summary of deficit of $368 million in Octo- The peso slid to fresh all the businesses the country ber, the widest in three months, 11-year low levels in October, does with the rest of the world. partly due to a weaker peso. hitting 51.77:$1 on Oct. 25, the BOP data is tracked closely Itama po natin! Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas weakest since July 25, 2006’s to ensure that the supply of data released Monday showed 51.87:$1. dollars in the economy remains BEN LOU gay sa alanganin. that the BOP deficit last month, At the end of the first 10 ample to allow the government At Debt Aid Consulting, we pride our- which meant that more dollars months, the BOP deficit further as well as businesses to transact Q: I entered a selves with providing only Federal Trade left than entered the economy, widened to a cumulative $1.735 with the rest of the world. debt program and Commission compliant programs. Our was the biggest since the $678- billion, reversing the $1.465-bil- Sources of dollar income still bought a car programs are here to help you get out of million deficit in July as well lion surplus as of end-October for the country include remit- even if I cannot af- debt sooner than later and we do not send as reversed the $24-million last year. tances from Filipinos overseas, ford it. The car was your information outside of the country. surplus in September. The BSP had said it expects sales from exports of goods “Outflows stemmed mainly the BOP position to settle and services, as well as foreign repossessed and If you need help in getting out of pay- from the foreign exchange oper- at a deficit of $500 million, investments and revenues from now I don’t know day loans, or any other unsecured debts, ations of the BSP and payments such that it will be the second industries such as business pro- what to do. Can you call Debt Aid Consulting. We have free made by the national govern- straight year that more dollars cess outsourcing and tourism. still help me? Credit Repair while and after your pro- ment for its maturing foreign would leave the country than The country uses the dol- A: Should I help this client? Why not? gram. We do not use call centers which exchange obligations during the come in. lars it earns for the importa- That’s what I’m here for. The problem keeps your information safe. We have a month in review. These were In June, the BSP revised its tion of goods, such as food and sometimes with some clients is they still new program that reconstruct debts for half partially offset by the national BOP projection for 2017 from fuel, and also for external debt have the fever that they can buy whatever of what you would pay our competitors. government’s net foreign cur- the earlier $1-billion surplus payments. (Ben O. De Vera/ they want even if they are already enrolled We also provide legal assistance that keeps rency deposits and income from projected in December last year. inquirer.net) in a debt relief program. It’s really ironic collectors away. We take Federal Credit the BSP’s investments abroad,” In 2016, the BOP position that the they would still put themselves in Unions, Military Debts, Payday loans and this situation. Here’s a story for you. high interest personal loans in our pro- A client called me and told me he had gram too. This is exclusively available for FinCEN issues $8 Million penalty on California card club a big problem. He told me he bought a car Debt Aid Consulting clients. None of our right after he enrolled in the program. I competitors provide this program. You are for willful violation of anti-money laundering controls told him that’s ok as long as he can afford well protected. Artichoke Joe’s Casino turned a blind eye to loan sharking, suspicious high-value chip transfers, and flagrant criminal activity for years to pay the monthly payments on the car. We only provide Federal Trade Com- As he answered that he really wasn’t able mission compliant programs. Debt relief to afford the car but bought it because he companies who charge non refundable WASHINGTON—The liked it became very troubling to me. He upfront fees are in violation of the ban. Go Financial Crimes Enforce- made a few payments on the car and then with Debt Aid Consulting! ment Network (FinCEN) stopped. Shortly the car was repossessed Do not fall for marketing gimmicks today announced an $8 and now they are going after him for the re- saying that they have the right program million civil money penalty mainder of the loan. As I listened stunned, for you. Most marketing companies only against Artichoke Joe’s, a I cannot but control to ask him why he did have one program and will enroll you in California corporation, doing something crazy like that? It was the fever that program whether it fits you or not. So business as Artichoke Joe’s (Photo: www.cutimes.com) of spending money he did not have. I guess beware! Casino (AJC). AJC, one of the there is some form of addiction that this Ben Lou at your service! I have over largest card clubs in Califor- of two AJC customers for information from proposi- client was going through. 30 years of real financial experience. If you nia, willfully violated U.S. loan-sharking and other illicit tional players (players paid by I told him he was going to have to would like sound financial advice, call us anti-money laundering (AML) activities conducted at AJC. casinos or card clubs to wager wait until the car is sold and wait for the at Debt Aid Consulting. We do not use call laws from October 2009 to AJC senior-level employees at a game) or other employ- residual bill so we can settle it. I warned centers like Financial Rescue. No one has November 2017. During this knew that loan-sharks were ees who may have observed him though that it wasn’t going to be cheap the right to put your information at risk. 8-year period, AJC failed to conducting criminal activity suspicious transactions. AJC since the car was brand new and that he Say no to LLC corporations in Canada! implement and maintain an through the card club and also failed to file complete had to eat the depreciation on it. Remem- Debt Aid Consulting is the first and only effective AML program, and using AJC gaming chips to and timely reports on suspi- ber that when you take out a brand new Filipino debt restructuring company incor- failed to detect, deter, and facilitate illegal transactions. cious transactions involving car from the dealership, you automatically porated in the US and Canada. timely report many suspicious Nonetheless, AJC failed to file potentially structured chip loose 20-30% of the value because it im- Now serving the Caribbean Islands! transactions. any Suspicious Activity Re- redemptions and purchases, mediately becomes a used car. They cannot Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at “For years, Artichoke ports (SARs) on this activity. and redemptions of large vol- sell it as a new car anymore. tutulungan po namin kayo. Joe’s turned a blind eye to For example, there were sev- umes of chips with no cash-in Ang ating lesson, Huwag pilitin ang di Itama po natin ang mali! loan sharking, suspicious eral instances in which loan- or gaming activity. FinCEN’s kayang abutin at baka ka mabitin at mala- transfers of high-value gaming sharks provided AJC chips Assessment of $8 million chips, and flagrant criminal to customers on the gaming recognizes the duration and activity that occurred in plain severity of AJC’s violations, sight. FinCEN’s $8 million the size and sophistication of civil penalty results from the the card club, AJC’s aware- card club’s failure to establish ness of criminal activity on adequate internal controls its premises, and its deficient and its willful violations of the culture of compliance. Bank Secrecy Act,” said Jamal Acting Director El-Hindi El-Hindi, Acting Director of expressed his appreciation to FinCEN. “Casinos, card clubs the Internal Revenue Service and others in the gaming Small Business/Self-Em- industry should consider their ployed Division, the Federal risk of exploitation by crimi- Bureau of Investigation, the nal elements, and understand State of California Depart- that they will be held account- (Photo: www.sanbrunochamber. com) ment of Justice’s Bureau of able if they disregard anti- Gambling Control, and the money laundering and illicit floor within plain sight of AJC U.S. Attorney’s Office for the finance laws. This significant employees. Northern District of California action highlights the need for AJC also failed to imple- for their support and strong all entities, including those in ment adequate internal con- partnerships with FinCEN. the gaming industry, to build trols, which exposed the card This is the third enforcement a robust culture of compliance club to a heightened risk of action against a card club for into their policies and proce- money laundering and other FinCEN, the only Federal dures to ensure they are not criminal activity. In particu- regulator with AML enforce- facilitating illicit activities.” lar, AJC failed to adopt ade- ment authority over card AJC, a card club located quate policies and procedures clubs. (Source: United States in San Bruno, California, has to address risks associated Department of Treasury - Fi- been in operation since 1916. with gaming practices that nancial Crimes Enforcement In March 2011, AJC was the allow customers to pool or co- Network) subject of a raid by state and mingle their bets with relative Federal law enforcement anonymity. Further, AJC did which led to the racketeering not establish procedures for indictment and conviction obtaining and incorporating November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star A9 world news Russia confirms ‘extremely high’ Trump declares North Korea state sponsor of terror President Donald Trump “We know that their rev- aged only 22 after he was repa- readings of radioactive pollution declared North Korea a state enues are down,” he said. “So triated from detention in North sponsor of terrorism on Monday I think it is having an effect. Is Korea already in a coma. US Russia’s meteorological cific source of the pollution, but norm and are at the level of even as his top diplomat said this the reason we haven’t had officials allege he was tortured service confirmed on Monday the Argayash station is about background radiation”. Washington has not given up a provocative act in 60 days? I in custody. “extremely high” concentra- 30 kilometres from the Mayak France’s IRSN had said a hope of a negotiated end to its don’t want to suggest to you that The White House has de- tions of the radioactive isotope nuclear facility, which in 1957 nuclear reactor could not have nuclear standoff with Kim Jong- I can say. We are hopeful this clared it will not tolerate Kim’s ruthenium-106 in several parts was the site of one of the worst been the source of the Ru-106 Un’s regime. period can continue.” regime testing or deploying an of the country in late Septem- nuclear disasters in history. since other radioactive elements Trump promised a rapid North Korea is already un- intercontinental ballistic missile ber, confirming European re- Today Mayak is a repro- would also have been detected. ramp-up of US Treasury sanc- der a crushing package of United capable of carrying a nuclear ports about the contamination cessing site for spent nuclear It suggested instead that a tions against the isolated pariah States and United Nations warhead to US cities. this month. fuel. discharge from an installation state, after adding its name to a sanctions, and Monday’s terror Experts believe Pyong- “Probes of radioactive aero- On November 9, France’s linked to the nuclear fuel cycle terror blacklist previously led by designation will not have much yang is within months of such sols from monitoring stations Institute for Radioprotection or which produced radioactive Iran and Syria. immediate economic impact. a threshold, having carried out Argayash and Novogorny were and Nuclear Safety (IRSN) materials as the cause of the “Should have happened But Trump said his declara- six nuclear tests since 2006 found to contain radioisotope issued a report saying rutheni- radioactive cloud. a long time ago. Should have tion would kick off a two-week and test-fired several types of Ru-106” between September 25 um-106 had been detected in Greenpeace Russia on happened years ago,” Trump period of announcements -- missiles, including multi-stage and October 1, the Rosgidromet France between September 27 Monday called on Rosatom to declared, citing the death of a starting on Tuesday with a “very rockets. service said. and October 13. open “an in-depth inquiry and US student who had been held large” US Treasury sanctions Kim’s government insists The highest concentration It said that the source of publish the results about the in a North Korean jail and the measure -- that would eventu- that, in spite of international was registered at the station in the pollution was probably an incidents at Mayak”. assassination by nerve agent of ally amount to a “maximum sanctions to develop a capability Argayash, a village in the Chely- accident somewhere between “Greenpeace will send a let- Kim’s elder brother on foreign pressure campaign.” it believes is essential to defend- abinsk region in the southern the Volga River and the Ural ter asking prosecutors to open soil as reasons for the move. And US officials see the ing itself from the threat of US Urals, which had “extremely Mountains, adding that the an inquiry into potential con- But, speaking to report- designation -- which was re- and South Korean invasion. high pollution” of Ru-106, concentrations measured in cealment of a nuclear incident,” ers after the cabinet meeting, moved by then-president George Washington is also pressur- exceeding natural background Europe were not a danger to it said in a statement. Secretary of State Rex Tillerson W. Bush in 2008 -- as a way of ing the North’s key trade partner pollution by 986 times, the public health. In mid-October, Rosatom said Washington has not given ratcheting up pressure on other and traditional ally China to service said. Ruthenium-106 is a prod- had issued a statement cited up hope that sanctions and di- states and foreign banks that turn up the sanctions pressure The isotope was then uct of splitting atoms in a reac- by Russian media outlets say- plomacy can pressure Kim into may be failing to fully enforce and force Kim to come to the detected in Tatarstan and then tor, and is also used in certain ing “in samples tested from agreeing to sit down and discuss the sanctions already in place. table to discuss his disarma- in southern Russia, eventu- medical treatments. It does not September 25 to October 7, his nuclear disarmament. “In addition to threatening ment. ally reaching “all European occur naturally. including in the southern Urals, Tillerson said that punitive the world by nuclear devasta- Assassinations on foreign countries starting in Italy and Russia’s nuclear corpo- no trace of ruthenium-106 was measures were already having tion, North Korea repeatedly soil toward the north of Europe” ration Rosatom said at the found, except in Saint Peters- a “significant effect” on Pyong- supported acts of international Officials would not say from September 29, Rosgi- time that “radiation around burg”. (AFP) yang’s economy -- even if China terrorism including assassina- what new sanctions might be dromet said. all objects of Russian nuclear has yet to cut off oil supplies to tions on foreign soil,” Trump announced on Tuesday and in It did not point to any spe- infrastructure are within the its sole refinery -- and said: “We said. the two weeks to come, but an still hope for diplomacy.” In February, Kim’s poten- outside expert said he expected ‘Maximum pressure cam- tial rival and elder brother Kim secondary measures against paign’ Jong-Nam died after he was Chinese banks and an Asian dip- Canada concerned about returning IS fighters Both Trump and Kim sprayed with a nerve agent in lomat predicted action against Canada is concerned about them to let go of that terrorist ide- have previously raised fears of Kuala Lumpur airport, in an as- individual North Korean traders the national security threat posed ology,” he added. open conflict erupting over the sassination blamed on Pyong- working in China. by citizens who joined the Islamic Nearly 180 Canadians are North’s banned nuclear missile yang. The diplomat said that in State group, returning to this known to have travelled over- program, with both insulting Tortured in custody the longer term, Washington country, Prime Minister Justin seas to join the IS group. About and threatening the other with a US officials, speaking on would like to impose a total oil Trudeau said Monday. 60 have returned to Canada, devastating military response. condition of anonymity, said embargo on the North, but that In parliament, Trudeau according to government figures But US officials have also that other murders have been China is not yet ready to accept pledged to prosecute those who released in 2016. been clear that their main hope linked to North Korea, but the a move that could cause Kim’s broke Canada’s anti-terrorism Only two returnees have is that what Tillerson described State Department said infor- regime to topple, thereby un- laws by joining the IS group, but been prosecuted under Canada’s as an inexorable increase in eco- mation about them “remains leashing chaos on its border. also said his government would anti-terrorism act, so far. nomic and diplomatic pressure classified.” Tillerson said Washington’s try to reintegrate them into Public Safety Minister Ralph -- backed by China -- will force “As we take this action message to China was: “You society. Goodale last week explained the Pyongyang to back down. today, our thoughts turn to Otto control the pipeline that feeds “We recognize the return of difficulties of gathering evidence even one individual (who joined in war zones for successful crimi- Canada’s PM Justin Trudeau “We know that there are Warmbier and others affected their refinery. You know, you the IS group) may have serious nal prosecutions. (Photo: www.dailyhive.com) current shortages of fuel based by North Korean oppression,” can do that unilaterally if you national security implications,” He rejected, however, the use upon what we can gather an- Trump continued, underlining want to increase that pressure. Trudeau said. of extrajudicial killings used by does not engage in death squads.” ecdotally and also from certain the legal case for the designa- Whether they’re doing that or “We are going to monitor allies to solve the problem, telling (AFP) intelligence sources,” Tillerson tion. not, we don’t know.”. (AFP) them. We are also there to help public broadcaster CBC: “Canada said. Warmbier did this year A10 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star B1 community New beginnings for Philippine Center, Housing issues in Santa Clara County departing Deputy ConsGen Ascalon discussed in various fora in San Jose By Jun Nucum By Harvey I. Barkin While the Santa Clara County Clara County needs more than Jose Department of Family Tent Board of Supervisors is poised to $250 million a year for new afford- Distribution.” chandeliers made from “thou- vote on funding the projects for able housing to meet the needs They are calling on the City sands of Ifugao kapis” brightly the homeless and vulnerable in the of extremely low and low-income Council to strengthen renter pro- illuminating Kalayaan Hall. County, renters in San Jose fear residents. Measure A will not get tections to align with other large He rationalized the renova- that the rate of rent may increase us all the way there, so at the top of cities in California that tie yearly tion and said, “How can you by a very substantial amount in the the 2017 to-do list should be serious allowable rent increases to the local express pride if your physical next two years. consideration of ways to supple- Consumer Price Index. surrounding does not inspire As the supervisors cast their ment these taxpayer funds with Meanwhile, the group Silicon votes to approve using part of the investments by the private sector,” Valley Rising hosted a third Town pride?” He cited the “almost sold bonds to build the first six Zwick admitted. Hall meeting for local residents to 10 million Filipinos up to the projects, Supervisors Cindy Chavez As this develops, San Jose express their vision for how San fourth generation” who need to and Dave Cortese will discuss the renters fear that the San Jose City Jose should grow and to detail their know their heritage and iden- tity. He said this was “nation building beyond borders.” He also said that their renovation is “far from over” and that there was still a lot to Deputy Consul General Jaime Ramon Ascalon (middle with plaque) be done to “the elevators, the (Photo by Gary De Guzman) chairs at Kalayaan Hall, the air- SAN FRANCISCO – The Trade and Investment, Social conditioning and the roofing.” Philippine Center (or officially, Security System, Department of But he said that the effort the Philippine Consulate Gener- Tourism, dual citizenship assis- to streamline processing will al) recently held a thanksgiving tance, overseas voter’s registra- “improve delivery and quality and farewell party for Deputy tion and even the police. The of services. It will be easier and Consul General Jaime Ramon passport biometrics system is at less stressful (especially for Ascalon and his wife Cecile. this floor. About 100 passports those applying for passports).” Supervisors Cindy Chavez and Dave Cortese The occasion marked the are processed daily. Friends and well-wishers (Photo: www. laoferta.com) beginning of renovated con- The Philippine Airline offic- stayed until later in the evening sulate service offices and the es have moved out of the second for the tribute to the Ascalons. six housing projects expected to be Council is poised to side “with concerns around families being beginning of life back in Manila floor to another location. Bensurto started it by call- funded through Measure A - the greedy landlords and allow them displaced, the lack of affordable for Deputy ConsGen. Ascalon The Carlos Romulo Hall ing them “the ConsGen and the $950-million dollar affordable to raise rents by over 23 percent in housing, increases in traffic and a housing bond approved last Novem- a 24-month period and force hun- drain on existing city and County and his family after his sixth at the 6th floor used to be an boss.” A flood of certificates of ber 2016 for permanent housing in dreds of dollars in fees on seniors services. year. Their sons, Jimbo and information center and is now appreciation and recognition front of one of the building sites on and working families. The town hall meeting was Andre are already in Manila. a baby-friendly waiting area to came from the UP alumni, the Leigh Avenue that will include units “This massive rent increase held with the concern that Google The 8-storey building at accommodate even seniors and California State Senate signed for people who are homeless. will push thousands of San Jose and the City of San Jose may disre- 447 Sutter was built in 1916 and the disabled. Off to one side is by Assemblyman Scott Weiner, It was reported that last families into homelessness. Cur- gard community input on Google was purchased by the Philippine the cabinet Romulo donated. the City of Vallejo, the Inter- October the first $250-million of rently, 57 percent of San Jose mega-campus project after the tech government in 1974. Aside from In a nearby corner is the Jose national Bar of the Philippines general obligations bonds to build families earning less than $50,00 giant reportedly misses deadline to being a block away from Union Rizal Hall where the flag stands and, of course, the Consulate. affordable housing for people who a year are “extremely rent bur- produce community engagement are homeless, low-income and first- dened,” meaning over half of their plan Square and within a mile of the and portraits of the current The Consulate staff also time homebuyers were sold. monthly income goes to rent. That In their statement, Silicon Val- financial district, the building president, vice-president and surprised the Ascalons with a Housing Trust Silicon Valley already leaves little money for food, ley Rising fears that after “Google comes with a lot of history and Foreign Affairs secretary are framed portrait and standy of Chief Executive Officer Kevin Zwick clothing, medical expenses, car, gas has failed to produce a Community is a historical landmark. showcased at the opposite side the Deputy ConsGen. There expressed appreciation that Santa and other necessities, even before Engagement Plan required by the In his welcome remarks, where the portraits or past were also gifts of Warriors and Clara County voters chose to recog- these increases,” renters wrote in a Exclusive Negotiations Agreement Consul General Henry Bensurto consgens in San Francisco up to Bay Area team merchandise nize the need for a “game-changing statement. with the City of San Jose for its Jr. said they were able to keep Bensurto are framed and hung. “that they will miss.” strategy” to address the affordable Renters contend that on the massive mega-campus develop- the original art deco design This area is where dual citizen In his final spectacular feat, housing crisis. average rent-controlled unit in San ment (and that) San Jose leaders The $950 million in Measure Jose, the 23 percent increase over are moving swiftly to conclude in the second floor. They’ve applicants take their oath to Ascalon gave a dazzling display A was slated to be seed resources 24-months amounts to over an negotiations on a project that would streamlined the whole floor that re-acquire their Filipino citizen- of yoyo virtuosity. to build or preserve up to 5,000 extra $5,400 a year. virtually double the size of down- now houses the attached agen- ship. affordable rental homes and to The renters that included town San Jose, creating significant cies, including: Department of Bensurto pointed to the help moderate income families – as tenants, faith-based leaders, tenant housing and traffic impacts, without many as 1,000 in the first 10 years – advocates, and the Silicon Valley engaging local residents.” become first-time homebuyers. Renters Rights Coalition also un- “It is estimated that Santa veiled what they called a new “San B2 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 Great Mountain advocates met at Pittsburg Ryan Largo, chairperson of the Human Development Inter- national (HDI) met the famous Filipino International Singer Arnel Pineda on November 19. This was made possible by Ryan Monsanto’s invitation to meet with Pineda and Ferdie Arqu- ero, a member of Team Arnel in Pittsburg, California. It can be recalled that in 2010 Pineda endorsed the HDI intiative “Call to Save the Mountains of the World” that Aging 2.0 Optimize frontlines Philippines global environment advocacies. (L-R) Ryan Largo, Arnel Pineda, and Ryan Monsanto The meeting provided good of humanity and Mother has played a significant contri- Largo and Arnel with an oppor- Nature. bution in bringing other celebri- tunity to re-strengthen coopera- Largo thanked Arnel for ties in the movement. tion and their passion to pursue endorsing the Call to Save the the cause that seeks the greater Mountains of the World that

Care Indeed’s Head of Franchise Development, Connor English Care Indeed’s COO, Vanessa Valerio

Care Indeed’s COO, Vanessa Valerio, and Head of Franchise Development, Connor English at- tended a two-day conference called Aging 2.0 Optimize. The event was held in San Francisco. Aging 2.0, a global network of innovators, is an international, interdisciplinary and intergenerational com- munity that strives to take on the biggest challenges and opportunities in aging. For more information about Care Indeed’s home care services and job opportunities, call (650) 328-1001 or log in to www. careindeed.com.

(Left Photo) SF Bay Area Pangasinenses spent a 15- day aboard the Coral Princess that sailed off from (Left Photo) TOURING GRAND CANYON, AZ. Delegation from the Philippines who attended the Federation of Philippine San Francisco recently. The cruise took them to American Chamber of Commerce Bi-National Conference at Talking Stick Resort in Arizona was given a tour of States Mexico, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia Grand Canyon. The Philippine delegation was led by Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry Honorary Chair- and Aruba, and were led by Cruise Director Betty man and President of Philippine Exporters Confederation (PhilExport) Sergio Ortiz Luis with wife Margie. Also with Padilla-Junio. them are Nina Mangio, head of finance, SME Committee of PCCI, Danilo Madlansacay, PCCI’s chair for Housing, Ronnie Yambao of Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority,architect Cathy Saldana of Arco Group, Carlo Mendoza, president of Batangas Chamber of Commerce and a host of other business owners and officers of PCCI. Photo was taken at the end of the forum in front of Bright Angel Lodge in Grand Canyon. (Right Photo) TOURING SEDONA Sergio Ortiz Luis with wife Margie and Thelma Orozco of San Jose tour the city of Sedona in Arizona. Luis is the honorary chair of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry and currently president of Philippine Exporters Confederation. He was recently ap- pointed as chairman of the Waterfront Manila Premier Development developing the 318-hectare tourism hub along the shores of Roxas Boulevard in Manila.

Happy Birthday !

Tess Gregorio recently celebrated her 76th Birthday last Nov 19, 2017 at Filipino American Society Inc.(FASI) in Fremont, California with her loving family and friends. Shown in the picture from right to left is the celebrant Tess Gregorio with her good friend Henni Es- pinosa of Balitang America (TFC). Also with her friends Fely Latade (Top Photo) David Raymond Clark of the 32-mem- Ince from London Canada, and ber cruisers from the SF Bay Area, emerged as the Remy (Nympha) Miranda of the Champion of the Voice of the Ocean Competition at Philippines. Coral Princess, besting Out 6 other finalists. November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star B3 community Fight Medicare Fraud -- Guard your Card By Greg Dill awareness Telling you there’s a charge to health care fraud. for your new card and they need Don’t ever let anyone bor- PG&E contributes $1 Million to launch to verify your personal informa- row or pay to use your Medi- tion. care number. And review your Funding Challenge as part of Respond, Threatening to cancel your Medicare Summary Notice to be health benefits if you don’t sure you and Medicare are be- Rebuild and Resilience Strategy for share your Medicare number or ing charged only for items and other personal information. services you actually received. California communities Don’t fall for any of this. We’re in the midst of SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.— “The hardworking people infrastructure and economy. Don’t share your Medi- Medicare open enrollment PG&E Corporation today an- of PG&E and the Santa Rosa The challenge will raise care number or other personal season right now. This is the nounced the contribution of $1 Fire Department work side by money to support research, information with anyone who time every year when you can million in shareholder funds to side in the field during emer- planning, and implementation If you have Medicare, you contacts you by phone, email, or sign up for, switch, or drop a launch the “California Climate gencies to keep our commu- of community-level “climate can protect your identity and by approaching you in person, Medicare health plan (Part C) Challenge,” a new corporate- nity safe, which is why we are resilience” projects focused on help prevent health care fraud unless you’ve given them per- or a Medicare prescription drug giving initiative dedicated to now excited to work together California’s water, energy, and by guarding your Medicare card mission in advance. plan (Part D). Open enrollment helping communities prepare in bringing our community telecommunications networks, like you would a credit card. Medicare, or someone ends Dec. 7. for, withstand, and recover together and begin the road to as well as natural ecosystems Identity theft arising from representing Medicare, will only Scam artists often try to from extreme events caused by recovery,” said Tim Aboudara and wildland-urban boundar- stolen Medicare numbers is call and ask for personal infor- take advantage of open enroll- climate change. Jr., President of the Santa Rosa ies. The total amount raised becoming more common. mation in these situations: ment season. So if someone Jumpstarting the chal- Firefighters Local 1401. – and the process for selecting Medicare is in the process A Medicare health or calls and tries to get you to sign lenge effort, organized by the Rebuild: To help commu- projects – will be announced of removing Social Security drug plan can call you if you’re up for a Medicare plan, keep in Bay Area Council, is part of nities in the North Bay rebuild, during the September 2018 numbers from Medicare cards already a member of the plan. mind there are no “early bird PG&E’s larger strategy to assist PG&E donated $2 million to Global Climate Action Summit and replacing them with a new, The agent who helped you join discounts” or “limited time communities in confronting the North Bay Fire Recovery in San Francisco. unique number for each person can also call you. offers.” the consequences of climate Fund, distributed $1 million to “California’s business with Medicare. A customer service repre- Don’t let anyone rush you change. The strategy has three local communities, organized climate is inseparable from Medicare will mail new sentative from 1-800-MEDI- to enroll by claiming you need major pillars: Respond – help volunteer efforts, and created its actual climate. Much of Medicare cards with the new CARE can call if you’ve called to “act now for the best deal.” first responders be more effec- resources for customers and California’s infrastructure was numbers between April 2018 and left a message or a repre- And be skeptical of promises of tive; Rebuild – help communi- builders. We will continue built under a colder, wetter, and April 2019. sentative said that someone free gifts, free medical services, ties rebuild; and Resilience to partner with federal, state more predictable climate than The new card won’t change would call you back. discount packages or any offer – identify solutions to increase and local government agen- we have today. Protecting our your Medicare coverage or Only give personal in- that sounds too good to be true. infrastructure resilience. cies around critical community homes and employment centers benefits. And there’s no charge formation like your Medicare It probably is. “We are already experienc- needs related to both temporary from extreme weather events, for your new card. number to doctors, insurers To learn more about pro- ing the reality of climate change assistance and longer term, such as droughts, floods and But watch out for scam- acting on your behalf, or trusted tecting yourself from identity in California – more severe and sustainable campaigns. wildfires, requires a top-to-bot- mers! people in the community who theft and health care fraud, visit more frequent storms, heat- “These funds are immense- tom assessment of our existing Thieves may try to get your work with Medicare, like coun- www.Medicare.gov/fraud or waves, wildfires, and drought, ly helpful as we support our resilience, and fresh thinking current Medicare number and selors from the State Health contact your local Senior Medi- along with the threat of rising local immigrant families to get on how to best adapt,” said Jim other personal information by Insurance Assistance Program care Patrol (www.smpresource. sea levels. PG&E is incorporat- back on their feet. It’s going to Wunderman, President and contacting you about your new (SHIP). org). ing this ‘new normal’ into how be a long road back for many of CEO of the Bay Area Council. Medicare card. They may claim If someone calls you and Greg Dill is Medicare’s re- we manage risks, plan, and the people we serve and all help The California Climate to be from Medicare and use asks for your Medicare number gional administrator for Arizo- invest our resources. But our is appreciated,” said Josefina Challenge Fund will be admin- various phony pitches to get or other personal information, na, California, Nevada, Hawaii, collective response to extreme Hurtado, Executive Director of istered by the Bay Area Council your Medicare number, such as: hang up and call us at 1-800- and the Pacific Territories. You events such as the tragic North Puertas Abiertas, a community Foundation, a 501(c)(3) chari- Aking you to confirm your MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). can always get answers to your Bay firestorms must go beyond resource center in the Napa table organization that supports Medicare or Social Security There are other steps you Medicare questions by calling the immediate work of rebuild- Valley. initiatives to build stronger, number so they can send you a can take to protect yourself 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633- ing what was lost. A focus on Resilience: In addition to more vibrant communities, a new card. from identity theft that can lead 4227). resilience will strengthen our funding the California Climate healthy economy, and a more communities for the future,” Challenge, PG&E is to helping innovative, globally competi- said Geisha Williams, CEO and to support resilience through tive and sustainable Bay Area Catch an Encore Presentation of the BA Special Documentary President of PG&E Corporation. other public-private partner- region. Respond: To help com- ships, including this year’s “We applaud this initiative “Beyond News: 15 Years of Balitang America” munities respond, PG&E will launch of the Better Together to fund a public-private part- continue working with first Resilient Communities grant nership for climate resilience DALY CITY, Calif, Nov of Integrated News and Current leave their answer as a com- responders, including firefight- program and state-level par- in California. Businesses are 21, 2017 – This Thanksgiv- Affairs at ABS-CBN Corpora- ment on the post, and they will ing agencies, on increasing their ticipation in the Tree Mortality concerned about climate risks, ing, TFC’s flagship newscast, tion, emphasizes that the mis- be entered into the drawing for effectiveness in both prevent- Task Force and Integrated Cli- which have the potential to BA, will be showing an encore sion and the challenge for BA is an exclusive BA15 duffle bag. ing and combatting wildfires. mate Adaptation and Resiliency cause wide-ranging disruptions presentation of their one-hour “still to go after the truth, to tell Two winners will be announced For example, PG&E donated Program. to their operations and supply documentary Beyond News: 15 the stories, to dissect issues and every Monday. $25,000 to the Potter Valley PG&E’s participation in chains. Corporate support for Years of Balitang America. The present those issues the way BA is giving away this Volunteer Fire Department the California Climate Chal- tackling climate change is only first part of the one-hour docu- they would really affect people limited-edition BA15 tote in recognition of their heroic lenge is designed to attract re- growing stronger, and compa- mentary will be telecast on No- and make sure people under- bag to winners of their BA15 success in stopping wildfire sources from across the Califor- nies clearly see the benefit of vember 23, Thursday and part stand how these issues will Trivia Contest on Facebook. flames from destroying a facility nia business community, while staying ahead of the game and two will be shown on November really have an impact in their Go to www.facebook.com/bali- essential to the town’s water also providing a framework for doing their part,” said Mindy 24, Friday, 6:45 P.M. Beyond lives.” Espera echoes Reyes’ tangamerica/ or www.facebook. supply. The company also corporate, government, and Lubber, CEO and President of donated $15,000 to Santa Rosa environmental leadership con- Ceres and a member of PG&E’s Firefighters Local 1401 to fund cerning the risks that climate Sustainability Advisory Council. their relief efforts. change is creating for the state’s TOU sponsors renewal of wedding vows to 10 member-couples By Elpidio Estioko

WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As theThe Original Urdanetani- ans (TOU), an organization of members who claim their ori- gin in the city of Urdaneta in Pangasinan based in Southern California, successfully spon- sored its latest project which is the renewal of wedding vows to 10-couple-members, accord- News highlights the beginnings, statements and admits that the com/TFCUSOfficial/ or www. ing to its association president the growth and the impact of BA team debates, researches, facebook.com/TFCCanadaOf- Danny Calacsan. BA in the last 15 years. and does fact checking daily. ficial/ to join. The project was very BA Executive Producer “At the end of the day, our goal BA remains committed to meaningful to President Calac- Troy Espera says they are excit- is to be balanced as possible. produce stories that empower san because he feels that if they ed to have another opportunity It can be challenging at times, and news that connect our have couple-members who to share the documentary with but this work is part of the BA viewers for the years to come. value their marital union, the viewers across North America. team’s DNA.” ABS-CBN North America organization can have con- Espera shares that the men In return, viewers in the Managing Director Olivia De cerned and dedicated members Photo shows the ten couples who renewed their vows sponsored by TOU and women behind BA “feel so U.S. and Canada express their Jesus proudly shares that “BA of the organization. Besides, much gratitude to our Filipino gratitude and appreciation is the only daily news program the couple likewise wanted to community for not just watch- to BA for reporting news that made for Filipino Americans renew their vows because it erick Ma. Asia during a mass magnitude and strength of ing our newscast, but for fueling matter to the Filipino American and Filipino Canadians. So, that serves as special anniversary said by him at Holiday Inn their enduring love is a very our newscast with their stories, and the Filipino Canadian com- is as current and as relevant for them as a couple that will Hotel Ballroom at Buena Park, gratifying and touching mo- their insights, and the count- munities. Espera shares that “In as you can get. We have a wide keep them reminding of their CA on November 18, 2017. ment for them. less tips and leads they give this age of social media, it’s fan- network of reporters and corre- union. Surely, they also want a The renewal of vows is a Most officiating priests us about news that they want tastic how much of a direct line spondents. So, if you want your public statement of their love symbolic, sentimental ceremo- say, “True love does not wither to see. So, sharing the story of our viewers have to us on BA. dose of news and community ny where, generally, a license or die. It merely ripens.” After- BA again with them during the Viewers frequently reach out to features, BA is the platform to and commitment that will in- is not required and paperwork wards, the couples commented Thanksgiving break, a story us, via Facebook or Twitter, to go to.” spire them to live forever more. is not needed. The officiating as to how surprisingly roman- they very much helped create, thank us for reporting on cer- Watch Beyond News: 15 The couples who re- is just one way for us to express tain topics that impact them, for Years of Balitang America (En- newed their wedding vows priest may request to see their tic it all felt for them through- how grateful we are to our view- teaching them new things in our core Presentation). Part 1 is on are TOU President and wife marriage certificates to confirm out the years! ers and community.” reporting, and for highlighting Thursday, November 23 at 6:45 Ludy Calacsan; Former TOU that they are already married. In most cases, some BA has been the leading fellow Filipinos who make all of P.M. and Part 2 is on Friday, President Lino, Jr. and wife It is a meaningful, touch- couples choose to renew their news source for Filipinos in us in the community proud.” November 24 at 6:45 P.M. on Jennifer Caringal; Romy and ing, inspiring ceremony for vows after a particularly dif- North America since 2002. It Aside from the replay of TFC. Polen Tigno; Manny and Fe the couples and their chil- ficult crisis in their lives, say is the only daily newscast that the BA special, another fun Nuezca; Incoming TOU Presi- dren, family, and friends. As for example, the overcoming of covers anything and everything way that BA is expressing their dent Conrad and wife Zenaida a married couple, it is a time a serious illness or a period of that matters to Filipino Ameri- gratitude to their followers and del Castillo; Jaime and Lu for them to pause and reflect difficulty. They want to make cans and Filipino Canadians. viewers is through a BA15 Trivia Calacsan; Amado and Minerva on where they have been and it new again! Others simply The team takes their com- Contest on Facebook. Every Sim; Roberto and Rosemarie where they are going. want to reaffirm the tremen- mitment and responsibility to Friday, a trivia question about Javonillo; Darwin and Myrna It is also a wonderful ex- dous love that has matured, provide fair and balanced jour- BA is posted on the official del Rosario; and Bernard and ample to set for their children nurtured, and deepened with nalism very seriously. Former Facebook pages of BA, TFC-US, Nita Credo. and grandchildren. Watching their meaningful relationships North America News Bureau and TFC-Canada. Viewers who The renewal of vows was their parents joining hands together in previous years. Chief Ging Reyes, now the Head would like to participate can officiated by Fr. Thomas Fred- and hearts as they affirm the B4 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 legal & law U.S. state gives key approval for Keystone pipeline Regulators in the US state of Nebraska on ronmental groups and Nebraska landowners What is Preconceived Intent for those applying for temporary visas? Monday granted a key approval needed for con- concerned about negative environmental and ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO struction of the Keystone XL pipeline, the source economic impacts. of a nearly decade-long feud between environ- Supporters have argued that the pipeline When a person to follow the rules of their visa when they entered mental activists and the energy industry. is a safer alternative to other forms of ground applies for a tempo- the United States or applied for their visa. Consular Officials in Nebraska granted TransCanada oil transport, and would create jobs and boost rary visa to the United officers are given the directive to allow the person an the final major permit it needs to begin construc- America’s affordable energy supply. States, a person must opportunity to respond and prove otherwise. tion of the 1,180-mile (1,900 kilometer) pipe- Commissioner Crystal Rhoades, who voted actually have an inten- If the activities occur outside of the new 90-day line, days after a leak in the existing Keystone “no”, was the only one to make prepared remarks tion to remain in the rule, there is no assumption. However, if it becomes line spilled around 5,000 barrels of oil in South during the short morning meeting. United States on a clear that the intent was still invalid when entering temporary basis and the United States, then the Consular officer may still Dakota. She expressed skepticism about the pipe- be limited by the rules seek to revoke the visa. In a 3-2 vote, the Nebraska Public Service line’s touted economic gains, along with con- of that visa. Similarly, Note: This is not a legal advice. Commission approved the project, but required cerns that some landowners were not properly when a person enters SUCCESS STORIES the pipeline’s operator to use an alternative to its informed of the alternative route’s path through the United States on a 1. On November 16, 2017, we received an ap- original preferred route. their property. particular temporary visa (or visa waiver), they must proval from Immigration Court for a waiver of mis- By state law, the regulatory body was not al- “(TransCanada) provided insufficient again represent that they truly only intend to remain representation for entering as single daughter of U.S. lowed to consider the risk of leaks or the potential evidence to substantiate any positive economic in the United States on a temporary basis and will citizen but actually married. environmental impact. impact for Nebraska from this project,” she said. abide by the rules of the visa. Intending anything 2. On October 25, 2017, we received an approval else is a material misrepresentation to Immigration of I-485 adjustment of status for our client who has a TransCanada said that, once built, the The approval of an alternative route could Officers. DUI but has proof that he has cleared his record. pipeline extension would connect to an exist- give new grounds for opposing landowners to file Beforehand, two of the main agencies that 3. On October 20, 2017, we received an approval ing network and ferry 830,000 barrels of oil per an appeal within the next 30 days. handle immigration matters – the Department of of naturalization for a client who day from landlocked Alberta, Canada to US Gulf A law firm representing landowners hailed State & the Department of Homeland Security – have was granted a waiver of misrepresentation Coast refineries. the decision to deny TransCanada its preferred been in agreement on how to determine a person’s in Immigration Court. In a statement, the company’s president Keystone XL route through Nebraska. actual intent. The Department of State (DOS) is the 4. On October 16, 2017, we received from USCIS Russ Girling said it would evaluate how the com- “We will carefully evaluate the Order and agency that manages and controls the U.S. Embassies an approval for an adjustment of mission’s decision to approve an alternate route meet with our clients,” attorney Dave Domina and Consulates abroad. They have their own rules status for same sex marriage, after two scheduled and guidance as to how to proceed with immigration interviews. through the state “would impact the cost and said in a statement. applications, just as the Department of Homeland 5. On October 9, 2017, we received an approval schedule of the project.” Opposition group Bold Nebraska said the Security (DHS) does for its own offices within the from USCIS for adjustment of status for a client who Meanwhile, Canadian Natural Resources alternative route raises concerns over possible United States. entered as a seaman but has Sec. 245 (i) eligibility. Minister Jim Carr welcomed the decision, saying environmental contamination of an area of sand Without notice or warning, this decades old 6. On October 2, 2017, we received an approval the pipeline would “strengthen the Canadian dunes and an aquifer, and also provides new policy suddenly changed on September 1, 2017. The of adjustment of status from USCIS for resource industry as a whole,” and “bring sig- grounds to push back against the pipeline’s con- DOS just indicated that they have changed their a client who entered without inspection but has Sec. nificant economic benefits to Canada for years to struction. interpretation of a misrepresentation as it relates to 245(i). come.” “This decision today throws the entire proj- persons inside the United States. They have rejected 7. For the week ending September 15, 2017, we the concept of a 30/60 day rule and have now insti- received three Immigrant Visa Approvals in U.S. He also said increases in Canadian oil ship- ect into a huge legal question mark,” Jane Kleeb tuted a flat 90 day rule. Embassy Manila for three applicants who entered as ments through the new conduit to the United of Bold Nebraska told a news conference. The new 90-day rule now states that any “con- seaman under the Provisional Waiver Program. States would bolster the two nations’ close energy Kleeb said the alternative route was not duct inconsistent” with the status granted within 90 8. For the week ending September 8, 2017, we relationship. reviewed by federal authorities and would force days of entry will result in an assumption that there received four N-400 Naturalization The controversial $5.3 billion project was TransCanada to seek new approvals. was a willful misrepresentation when the person approvals. first proposed in 2008. US President Donald The approval of an alternative route “opens applied for a visa or entry to the United States. DOS 9. On August 31, 2017 we received an approval of Trump reversed his predecessor Barack Obama’s up a huge victory for us in order to fight this now officers are instructed that, if they find that someone adjustment of status for a client who problems with decision to block it. on the federal level,” she said. (AFP) in the United States has applied for permanent resi- birth certificate which we corrected. dence (green card) or otherwise committed some act 10. On August 25, 2017, we received approval of Construction had been held up by envi- inconsistent with their visa’s intent, they must bring I-751 removal of condition on same sex marriage this attention to the DOS for potential revocation of 11. On August 18, 2017, we received two approv- their visa. als for N-400 applications. U.S. sues to block $85 bn AT&T-Time Warner merger How will the change in policy be implemented? 12. On August 16, 2017, we received an approval AT&T said Monday that US antitrust enforc- AT&T general counsel David McAfee said. The new 90-day rule refers to any activity incon- of I-601A provisional waiver for a Mexican client. ers filed suit to block its merger with Time Warner, “Vertical mergers like this one are routinely sistent with their status. This may include working If you have immigration problems the Law Of- without authorization, enrolling in courses without fices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a solution setting up a major court battle over the $85 billion approved because they benefit consumers without authorization (for example, a person on a visitor before your problem gets worse which could lead to tieup. removing any competitor from the market. We see visa), marrying a U.S. Citizen/Permanent Resident deportation and family separation. The deal announced more than a year ago no legitimate reason for our merger to be treated and taking up residence with them, even potentially Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active member would merge vast content of Time Warner units differently.” overstaying their visa, or doing anything else that of the State Bar of California, the American Immigra- like premium cable channel HBO and news channel McAfee added: “We are confident that the court would require or change of status. tion Lawyers Association and San Francisco Trial CNN with the massive internet and pay TV delivery will reject the government’s claims and permit this If actions are taken within 90 days of the per- Lawyers Association. He specializes in immigration networks of AT&T. merger under longstanding legal precedent.” son’s entry that are inconsistent with their visa, it is law and personal injury. For free consultation email The statement from AT&T came ahead of an The deal has also stirred up political concerns: up to the applicant to prove that they truly intended or call ([email protected] / 1-877-456-9266) expected announcement from the US Justice De- Reports earlier this month said the government was partment. prepared to approve the deal if AT&T would divest Critics of the deal have said it would give too CNN, which has been a frequent target of President much power over the media industry to a single Donald Trump, who has attacked the network as firm and enable AT&T to withhold key content from “fake news.” rivals or raise prices. Last week, AT&T chairman and chief executive AT&T reaffirmed its plans to challenge the Randall Stephenson said his firm is prepared for a government’s lawsuit, arguing that it was seeking a court fight, while ruling out a sale of CNN or other “vertical” merger without competitive overlap. content providers. “Today’s DOJ lawsuit is a radical and inexplica- Stephenson said he would have preferred a ble departure from decades of antitrust precedent,” negotiated settlement with the Justice Department, but that any deal would not involve the divesting of CNN or the HBO premium video channel. That is because AT&T -- one of the largest telecom and pay TV operators -- wants to boost its ability to marry content and advertising and better compete with the likes of Facebook, Google and Netflix. “That’s where the synergies come from,” Ste- phenson said in response to a question on whether he would sell CNN or other Time Warner content assets. AT&T has also argued its merger would mirror a similar merger between cable giant Comcast and media-entertainment group NBCUniversal, which won approval with certain conditions. But last week, the Justice Department’s an- titrust chief Makan Delrahim said in a speech he wanted to avoid “behavioral” remedies in mergers, stating “antitrust is law enforcement, it’s not regula- tion.” (AFP) Answers to LAST WEEK’S Krosword

“REMOVING NAMES FROM DEED” By: Atty. Robert L. Ferris

If your parents or a spouse has passed away, their name(s) should be removed from the deed! Here are the five common sce- narios: 1. If the names of both of your deceased parents are still on the deed to their home and they did not have a Trust, then a probate maybe necessary to have their names removed and replaced with the names of their heirs. 2. If the names of both of your deceased parents are still on the deed to their home and they did have a Trust then a notice should be mailed to the benefi- ciaries and a notarized affidavit of Death of Trustee, Certification of Trust and a new deed should all be recorded at the county recorder’s office. 3. If the names of one or both of your deceased parents are on the deed to their home and your name is also on the deed as a joint tenant, then a notarized Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant(s) should be recorded at the county recorder’s office. 4. If a spouse has passed away and his or her name is still on the deed to your home, you may need to do one of the following: (a) If the deed shows that both you and your deceased spouse hold title as joint ten- ants, then a notarized Affidavit of Death of Joint Tenant should be recorded at the county recorder’s office. (b) If the deed shows that both you and your deceased spouse hold title as Trustee’s of your Trust, then a notarized Affidavit of Death of Trustee should be recorded at the county recorder’s office. (c) If the deed shows only the name of your deceased spouse on title and your name is not on title, then you may need to file a Spousal Property Petition with the court for an order showing that you now own the property. A certified copy of the order should then be recorded at the county recorder’s office. 5. If you are divorced and your ex-spouse’s name is still on the deed, you may need to record a Certified copy of your divorce decree showing that the house was awarded to you in the divorce. Tip: If your Trust was prepared more than five years ago, you may want to have it reviewed. November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star B5 health & E-cigarette flavorings may change or damage heart muscle cells, says study lifestyle New research in the United States has found cell actually functions,” said Nystoriak, whose that popular chemicals used to flavor e-cigarette research was released this week at the American liquids may cause changes or damage to heart Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions meeting. muscle cells. Nystoriak added that the chemicals that did Health@Heart Led by Matthew A. Nystoriak, Ph.D from the the most significant damage to the cells that keep University of Louisville, the preliminary lab-based the heart pumping had an effect before they were research examined 15 chemicals used to flavor heated. Fascinating history e-cigarette liquids, such as cinnamon, clove, citrus However, there are still many questions about cardiac massage to re-start the heart, the founda- and floral, both heated and unheated. exactly how the chemicals can affect the heart, PHILIP S. CHUA, tion for today’s CPR. both when heated and when not. MD, FACS, FPCS 1960s Denton A. Cooley of Houston, In addition, as the experiments were done As the year comes Texas, rose to world fame for his extraordinary in a petri dish and not on a real heart, the study to a close, allow me dexterity in performing thousands of congenital also doesn’t take into account the many variables to take you back in heart surgeries in infants, and for being the first that are involved in real-life consumption of the time to revisit some of to successfully remove pulmonary emboli (clots chemicals. the great moments in in the lungs). However, health experts have long been con- medical science which 1965 Michael De Bakey and Adrian cerned about the potential dangers of e-cigarettes, made possible the great Kantrowitz, American surgeons, implanted me- partly because little is known about the health strides man has made chanical devise to help the diseased heart. risks from flavorings. in the treatment of car- 1967 Christian Barnard of South Though not involved in this study, Matthew (Photo: www.fda.gov) diovascular diseases that benefit all of us today. Africa, performed the first whole heart transplant L. Springer, Ph.D., a professor of medicine at the I had the great fortune and privilege in 1972 to from one person to another. University of California, San Francisco, and an have trained as a Fellow in Cardiac Surgery un- 1968 Denton Cooley performed the E-cigarettes work by heating liquids contain- expert on how smoke and aerosol tobacco affect der one of the world’s giants in heart surgery, Dr. first heart transplant in the United States on a ing nicotine to turn it into vapor, which users then vascular function, commented that chemicals that Denton A. Cooley, founder and cardiac surgeon- 47-year-old man, using a donor heart from a 15- inhale, or vape. Many of the liquids are flavored. are “generally recognized as safe” are not neces- in-chief of the Texas Heart Institute in Houston. year-old. The patient lived for 204 days. He had Unheated particles of these flavor chemicals sarily safe for inhalation, adding that cayenne pep- The management of heart diseases was still done 22 heart transplants over the next year, a can make their way into the heart, with the team per powder is quite safe for eating, but “I would in the Dark Ages during my undergraduate years record at the time. finding that the chemicals could cause a wide not want to inhale it.” in the late 50s. Physicians then did not know how 1969 Denton A. Cooley implanted variety of reactions in the heart cells. For example, “They should not assume that e-cigarettes are to treat heart diseases, much less, save the lives the first artificial (mechanical) heart on a man to the chemical used for cinnamon flavoring stopped harmless just because they don’t produce smoke,” of patients with these ailments. Looking back, “tide him over” and keep him alive while waiting heart cells from moving or contracting even 24 he continued. “The best thing that you can inhale the physicians at that time did not even know for a donor heart. hours later, while chemicals used for clove, floral is clean air.” that simple aspirin had any potential role in the 1972 In the field of clinical application, Den- and citrus flavoring made cells beat faster. According to the Centers for Disease Control prevention or treatment of heart attacks. Treat- ton A. Cooley had, by this time, performed more “These effects [from the chemicals] are kind and Prevention, e-cigarettes might be less harmful ment was mainly symptomatic, using pain pills than 10,000 open heart surgeries, more than of striking because it suggests that if this com- than conventional cigarettes but still aren’t safe or pain shots. The most sophisticated pill was the any other surgeon in the world. That year, in his pound was interacting with the heart muscle itself, because data shows they can contain harmful sub- nitrate pill, a vasodilator that “relaxes open” the honor, the Denton A. Cooley Cardiovascular Sur- it could do something directly to change how that stances such as nicotine and lead. (inquirer.net) coronary artery, since the “current” knowledge gical Society was founded. Its members are the in physiology then said angina pectoris (chest more than 800 heart surgeons from 50 countries pain) was due to spasm in the coronary arteries around the world whom he trained at the Texas Having a dog may reduce risk of heart disease, death — study which supply the heart muscles with oxygen and Heart Institute (THI) in Houston. (As a Filipino- nutrition. American heart surgeon, I was truly humbled wedish researchers have found an associa- national data sources. Two of which were dog The first milestone that started it all to be elected as its first president.) The THI has tion between dog ownership and the reduction of ownership registers. The study also noted that was in 1628 when an English physician first de- been doing more than 30 open-heart surgeries cardiovascular-related diseases among adults. these individuals had no prior cardiovascular scribed blood circulation. Inspired by that, these per day since then. According to a statement from the Uppsala disease in 2001. historical events followed: 1970s Michel Mirowski, M.D., and University in Sweden regarding the study, single But the study did not delve into the reasons 1706 Raymond de Vieussens, a his associates, Morton Mower, Stephen Heilman, adults who owned dogs had a 33 percent lower as to why dog ownership had such an effect on French anatomy professor, first described the M.D., Alois Langer, PhD, and a company called risk of death. At the same time, these adults individuals. structure of the heart’s chambers and vessels. Medrad in Pittsburgh, developed the automatic had an 11 percent lower chance of contracting a “We know that dog owners in general have 1733 Stephen Hales, an English implantable cardiac defibrillator. In 1980, the cardiovascular disease compared to singles with a higher level of physical activity, which could be clergyman and scientist first measured blood prototype AICD was implanted at Johns Hopkins no dogs. one explanation to the observed results. Other pressure. to prevent sudden cardiac death. The study has been published online on explanations include an increased well-being and 1816 Rene T. H. Laennec, a French 1982 Willem DeVries, an American Nature’s Scientific Reports journal under the title social contacts or effects of the dog on the bacte- physician, invented the first stethoscope. surgeon, implanted a permanent artificial heart, “Dog ownership and the risk of cardiovascular rial microbiome in the owner,” says Tove Fall, 1903 Eillem Einthoven, a Dutch physi- designed by Robert Jarvic, also an American disease and death – a nationwide cohort study”. senior author of the study and associate professor cian, developed the first electrocardiogram. physician. O. H. Frazier and his team under Dr. “A very interesting finding in our study was in epidemiology at the university. “Dogs may be 1912 James B. Herrick, an American physi- Cooley at the Texas Heart Institute has per- cian, first described heart disease resulting from that dog ownership was especially prominent as beneficial in reducing cardiovascular risk in their formed more than 600 heart transplants, and hardening of the arteries, a fundamental concept a protective factor in persons living alone, which owners by providing social support and motiva- doing extensive works on artificial (mechanical) that led to the modern therapy of today. is a group reported previously to be at higher risk tion for physical activity.“ hearts. Someday, they will be available on the 1938 Robert E. Gross, an American surgeon, of cardiovascular disease and death than those While scientists continue to study how shelf like pacemakers today, and heart bypass performed the first heart surgery (close-heart, and cardiac valve surgeries would be a thing of living in a multi-person household,” said Mwe- dogs or pets in general affect humans, it may be not open-heart). the past. nya Mubanga, lead junior author of the study comforting for dog owners to know that their 1951 Charles Hufnagel, an American A Crazy Idea and PhD student at the Department of Medical furry friends may have helped them get one step surgeon, developed a plastic valve to repair the A most worthy pioneer was Werner Forss- Sciences and the Science for Life Laboratory, farther away from a heart attack — at least until aortic valve. mann, who, as a surgical resident in Germany Uppsala University. the doggos rip out the couch or drool over mom’s 1952 F. John Lewis, an American surgeon, in 1929, experimented with himself by inserting The researchers drew data from a sample of best shoes. (inquirer.net) performed the first successful open heart sur- a catheter through a vein in his arm and into 3.4 million individuals through seven different gery. his heart. He walked to the basement where the 1953 John H. Gibbon, an American surgeon, X-ray machine was, and x-rayed himself to prove introduced the heart lung machine (which he that the catheter was in his heart. In another published as a concept in 1937) and first used experiment, he injected dye to his heart through HOROSCOPE this mechanical heart and “blood purifier” to do that catheter and took x-ray film. Many of his fel- http://www.starlightastrology.com the first “real open heart surgery” utilizing the low physicians were outraged by his “daring and heart lung machine, precursor of the modern day Aries Libra insane” acts. cardiopulmonary bypass machine. (Mar. 21- April 20) (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) This, by the way, was the origin of what we You may find that purchases or entertainment You may have difficulties with foreigners. 1950 John Hopps, a Canadian, in- know today as coronary or heart angiogram or could be expensive. Romance is likely if you You can make money if you get involved in real vented the external heart pacemaker. That same cardiac catheterization, that made possible life- participate in unusual forms of entertainment. estate deals. Expressing yourself in novel ways year, Willem Greatbatch introduced the concept saving procedures, like angioplasties and heart Generosity will put you in the poorhouse. Mingle should lead you down new avenues. You will be of an implantable (internal) heart pacemaker. bypass surgeries all over the world. Thanks to with those who can further your goals. in a high cycle regarding work. 1960 The first self-contained im- Forssmann’s “crazy idea.” In 1956, Forssmann Your lucky day this week will be Tuesday. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. plantable heart pacemaker made by Medtronic was awarded a Nobel prize, shared with Dickin- was inserted by W. C. Lillihei. Over the years, son Richards and Andre Cournand, physicians Taurus Scorpio this has been improved, made more versatile, in New York who studied heart function and (Apr. 21- may 21) (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) smaller, better, and longer lasting. physiology using catheters. Take care of the needs or responsibilities You have a real need to be vocal. You have 1961 J. R. Jude, an American cardiolo- NEXT WEEK: Part II - Conclusion of elders. Beware of someone who is trying been stagnating for some time now and you gist, led a ream in performing the first external to make you look bad. You can help sort out need a change of pace. If you have to deal with problems that friends are facing. You can travel large institutions, be careful not to make waves. for business or pleasure. Don’t let someone talk you into parting with your Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. cash unless you can truly see the benefits of doing so. KrosWord Gemini Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo) PAHALANG (May 22-June 21) 1 Panibugho Limitations at work might set you back. Sagittarius 5 Luoy Financial gains can be made through wise (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) 10 Pangalang panlalaki investments. You may be tempted to get Do not react too harshly when dealing with involved in secret affairs or love triangles. Don’t partners. You’ll be angry if those you live with 11 Uri ng punongkahoy let the cat out of the bag. aren’t pulling their weight. Be sure to pay 12 Pamatag ng kalsada Your lucky day this week will be Friday. attention to your financial status. You will need 14 Animo to finalize important deals this week. 15 Hayop sa malamig na Cancer Your lucky day this week will be Monday. lugar (June 22-July 22) 16 Anak ni Nora Stick to travel or do things in conjunction with Capricorn 18 Unit ng kuryente groups. Don’t lend to people who have given (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 19 Pangkulay ng buhok you negative vibes. Tell them to get out of the Your love will not be willing to listen to your 21 Simbolo ng Protactinium mess they are in and then you’ll consider getting criticism. Your talents might just be discovered. together with them. You should teach children You need to do something energetic and 22 Kilates some of your unique creative talents. different. The personal problems you may be 24 Kaye Abad Your lucky day this week will be Friday. having are interfering with your productivity. 25 Tungtong Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. 29 Bagwis Leo 31 Sungayang hayop (July 23-Aug 22) Aquarius 33 Man’s bestfriend You may attract attention if you get out (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 34 Braso socially. Read some books on self awareness. Family members will not be happy with the 36 Aklat dasalan Keep your wits about you and be sure that you amount of time you are spending away from 38 Awit-papuri can trust those you confide i You can travel for home. Control your emotions and everything will business or pleasure. fall into place. You will reach the most people if 39 Kamit Your lucky day this week will be Friday. you speak out at an organizational function. An 40 Yamot older loved one may be having problems. 41 Tindahan Virgo Your lucky day this week will be Thursday. (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Don’t let your partner goad you into wearing Pisces PABABA your heart on your sleeve. Past partners are (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 1 Bahay ng gagamba 13 Simbolo ng Nickel 28 Kulay likely to reappear. Be careful not to confuse In-laws may cause difficulties. Travel should 2 Propeller 17 Urong 30 Itlog ng kuto issues when discussing the matters at hand. be considered. You can find out important 3 Nakamamatay 20 Alyas 31 Bena Major moves will be emotional and not information if you listen to friends and relatives. necessarily to your benefit. This is not the best time to take a risk, to gamble 4 Biyuda ni J. Lennon 21 Samahan ng mga guro 32 Simbolo ng Alabamium Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. or spend money you really can’t afford to part 5 Reserba at magulang 35 Information Networking with. Prove your worth; concentrate on getting 6 Pangalang pambabae 23 Sambulat Institute the job done and steer clear of office politics and 7 Nahabag 24 Matrimonyo 37 Baluga gossip. 8 Mangha 26 Pinatuyong ubas Answers to this week’s Krosword Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. 9 Pangalang pambabae 27 Bundok sa Japan on NEXT WEEK’S issue B6 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017 entertainment Michael V preparing for his inevitable exit from ‘Bubble Gang’ Ricky Davao: No small roles, only small actors It’s true that there are no For the past 22 years, “Some things can’t be taught, Gang’ gag.” small parts, only small actors,” Michael V has been the bind- but I always can inspire them. For inspiration, Michael V said Ricky Davao, best supporting ing force of “Bubble Gang,” for They all have potential. I will be loves to go … people watching. actor winner at the 2017 Cinema which he works not only as an leaving the door open—it’s up “I hang out at malls. Sometimes One Originals Film Festival for actor, but also a creative director. to them to step up and enter,” I book an Uber ride, especially his performance in Giancarlo While having the long-running added the 47-year-old comedian. when I’m abroad, so I could have Abrahan’s “Paki (Please. Care).” gag-comedy show without him is He admitted that the idea of a chat with the driver,” said the “A friend of mine called me almost unimaginable, he knows stepping down crosses his mind Kapuso comedian. to say that while this is just a that, at some point, he would once in a while. For the show’s 22nd an- ’small role,’ he really wants me to have to “graduate.” Michael V intends to pursue niversary celebration, the gang read the script because I might That’s the reason he’s bent filmmaking—a creative under- prepared a musical set to the like it,” Davao said of his name- on training and guiding the taking he has long been putting songs of local pop-rock group sake, entertainment columnist and talent manager Ricky Gal- lardo. “Paki,” about a middle- Ricky Davao aged couple and how their love (Photo: www. youtube.com) has evolved through the years, likewise went home with the best bonus,” Villegas told the Inquirer if it worked [for the stage play], picture trophy and best screen- shortly after the awards ceremo- why change it?” play honor for Abrahan. ny held on Sunday night at the Richard Somes’ “Histo- Abrahan also shared the Dolphy Theater inside the ABS- riographika Errata” bagged the best director honor with Dan CBN Compound in Quezon City. Jury Prize, as well as the best cin- Villegas, who megged “Changing He added he was grateful ematography for Alex Espartero, Partners.” Abrahan said: “It’s an to the jury for granting the best and best production design for honor to stand on stage side by ensemble award to the cast mem- Donald Camon and Julius Somes. side with Dan. We were batch- bers of “Changing Partners,” a Rae Red and Fatrick Ta- mates in some film workshops. I May-December love affair of four bada’s “Si Chedeng at Si Apple” guess you can say that we’re each couples. won for Mae “Juana Change” other’s lodi (idol).” “They were also the actors Paner the best supporting actress Villegas confessed that the of the stage play version. Their honor. awards he had hoped for his journey for this film was longer Other winners were: Carl film to win were: best editing than mine,” Villegas said. Chavez’s “Sorry for the In- (for Marya Ignacio), best actress The director added that Cin- convenience,” best short film; (for Agot Isidro), best actor (for ema One, which funds the annual Dempster Samarista’s “Bundok Jojit Lorenzo) and the Audi- film festival, once suggested that Banahaw,” best documentary; Michael V. ence Choice (which included a he conduct auditions for other and Leeroy New for Shireen (Photo: www. trending.com.ph) P100,000 cash prize). actors. “I told them that I don’t Seno’s “Nervous Translation, best “We got them all, and more. want to do the film if not with the sound award. (Marinel R. Cruz / I consider the other trophies as four,” Villegas recalled. “For me, inquirer.net) show’s newer cast members. “I on hold because of his hectic Parokya ni Edgar. feel compelled to teach them. I’m schedule. He has also entertained “This is something for us. simply waiting for people to step the idea of creating content for Think ‘High School Musical’ or up. They’re good performers, but online platforms. ‘Hairspray,’” Michael V said. “We Why Ellen Adarna might be keeping mum on pregnancy no one writes or is part of the cre- “I want the show to continue, opted to use the hits of Parokya According to a TV Patrol ative team—wala pa so far ’yung not necessarily with me or the because the band and our show report, a source confirmed that full package,” he said in a recent same cast,” he said. “We stick have been around the industry Adarna has endorsements which group interview for the 22nd to original material as much as for roughly the same time. And I do not allow her to become anniversary special of “Bubble possible. If we have to copy or think their music best describes pregnant within the period of the Gang,” whose second part airs on spoof something, we spiff it up the essence of the show.” (Allan contract. Nov. 24. so it becomes a signature ‘Bubble Policarpio / inquirer.net) These will reportedly close by the end of the year. Her manager Pia Campos has stated in the report that Ellen is “well and happy.” “And if there are rumors to be admitted or dispelled, it’s her story to tell when she is ready to do so,” Campos added. The Philippine Entertain- ment Portal earlier reported that the actress has told close friends she is expecting a baby with rumored boyfriend John Lloyd Ellen Adarna (left) and John Lloyd Cruz (right) Cruz. (Photo: www. ph.new.yahoo.com) Adarna and Cruz are said to have cut their European vaca- There may be a legally Adarna won’t announce her preg- tion short following news of the binding reason as to why Ellen nancy just yet. pregnancy. (inquirer.net) Dayanara Torres wins U.S. dance competition She is truly the dancing given to her chosen charity. hosts of the long-running Sunday queen! As seen in a two-minute noontime variety show, “ASAP”, Miss Universe 1993 clip of the show uploaded on and became popularly known as Dayanara Torres has once more YouTube, the teary-eyed actress/ the “dancing queen” of the local achieved another milestone in singer was just obviously too entertainment industry. She her career as she has just been overwhelmed at her win. even had her own dance segment hailed the champion of Univi- Another good thing to note called “Sayaw Nara”. sion’s “Mira Quien Baila (Look, is that her ex-husband, award- Torres was also able to make Who’s Dancing)” contest in the winning balladeer Marc Anthony, her mark as an actress through United States. has been in full support of his the iconic Star Cinema classic She received a grand prize of ex-wife throughout her journey in “Basta’t Kasama Kita” with ex- $50,000 dollars, which would be the competition. boyfriend Aga Muhlach, whom given to her chosen charity – San The day after her 43rd she had a four-year relationship Jorge Children’s Foundation, a birthday last October 28, her two with. nonprofit organization dedicated sons – Christian, 16, and Ryan, Among the other movies she to the health and welfare of chil- 14 – recorded with their father made in the Philippines in the

Dayanara Torres (Photo: www. people.com)

dren in her native Puerto Rico. a birthday video greeting for her ’90s were “Hataw Na” and “Type The 43-year-old stunner also and show their support. Kita Walang Kokontra!”. received the “Premio a la Más On the day of her big win, What made Filipinos more Vista” (Most Viewed Award) as Torres even danced to Anthony’s endeared to her is her fluency in three of her dance videos were steamy ballad “Hubo Alguien”. speaking Tagalog which she still recognized as the “most-watched” She is admittedly a big fan of her successfully showcased with her during this season of the dance ex-husband’s music. recent comeback just this year. reality competition. After her win in the Miss In her brief stay, she re- The former beauty queen, Universe, the Spanish mestiza claimed the “ASAP” stage once who garnered millions of votes, stayed in the country and was more with a show-stopping dance won against finalist Ana Patricia, able to establish a stellar career number. (Clarizel Abanilla / who won a consolation prize of in the Philippine soil. inquirer.net) $5,000, which would also to be She was among the original November 23 - 29, 2017 FilAm Star B7 entertainment Look: Heart Evangelista heats up the internet Lea Salonga calls out error in her name on coffee cup with cleavage-revealing swimsuit Pet peeve alert! Award-winning Broadway superstar Lea Salonga A recent update by Heart could not help but notice the misspelling of her name Evangelista on her Instagram on the beverage cup of an international coffee bar page has gained widespread chain. attention, thanks to what the In a recent Instagram post, the actress-singer actress wore for a dip in the pool said: “Let the misspelling begin!!! Starbucks talaga o! while vacationing with husband (… really)”. And then finished it with a hashtag: #Ka- Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero. hitSaanKahitKelan (Anywhere, Anytime) Accustomed with the actress Ms. Salonga uploaded a photo of her drink, which as someone who’s generally cup had her misspelled name – “Laiya” instead of conservative, fans were surprised “Lea.” with Evangelista’s recent manner Expectedly, the celebrity’s post immediately of showing off her figure. gained reactions from netizens with similar senti- Although the actress wore ments. a black one-piece bathing suit, Lea is known for her sophistication, intelligence, it featured a plunging neckline, and sharp English proficiency that people look up to which went as far down as her her as both an excellent performer and well-educated midsection. This created a V- person. Amid her global fame, netizens could not shaped space which showed off believe how a renowned espresso shop could commit Leah Salonga part of her chest area. such a silly mistake. (Clarizel Abanilla / inquirer.net) (Photo: www. playbill.com) Reactions were a mix of Heart Evangelista praise, envy and troll posts — (Photo: www. entertainment.inquirer.net) from fans telling the actress that she’s hot, to bashers mocking her herself wearing a two-piece bikini, which revealed Eminem fulfills wish to collaborate body. even more of her hourglass figure. (Alfred Bayle / Evangelista also shared another photo of inquirer.net) with Beyonce on new single that I felt like would be right to present to her. So, I was kinda John Prats, Angelica Panganiban, Sam waitin’.” Eminem, born Marshall Milby put up a production company Mathers, added that the song— which talks about the pressures of fortune and fame—best suits “Single Ladies” singer. “Then me and Paul [Rosen- berg, Eminem’s music manager] kicked the idea around after I finished it, you know. And based off what it was about, I felt like she probably could relate to this, too,” he shared. (L-R) Beyonce and Eminem Eminem, meanwhile, has (Photo: www. glitztvla.com) worked with many talented Hip-hop superstar Eminem certainly re- female artists over the years, turned with a bang after releasing the lead single including the likes of Rihanna and Skylar Grey. “Walk on Water” for his upcoming ninth studio Still, he relishes the chance to partner up album, “Revival”—highlighted by a tantalizing live with one of the music industry’s most polarizing performance on “Saturday Night Live” over the figures. (L-R) John Pratts, Angelica Panganiban, and Sam Milby “Beyoncé’s always…everything she does is (Photo: www. twiiter.com) weekend. Apart from the track’s vivid monologue-type so perfect,” the Detroit-raised rapper said. “But, Aside from being powerhouse actors, Kapami- simple dinner last night. delivery, fans were also thrilled with the 45-year- the pressures behind that too…for her to do it so lya stars John Prats, Angelica Panganiban and Their first project is the six-minute music video old rapper’s long overdue collaboration with perfect, you know, I felt like she could probably Sam Milby now try taking a different path in their of singer Moira dela Torre’s song “Malaya.” another music royalty, Beyonce Knowles-Carter. relate to that. careers as they venture into producing. It features Panganiban and Milby as actors and In a recent interview on hip-hop radio sta- He added: “‘Cuz I told her, I said, ‘I never seen In an Instagram post by Panganiban, she Prats as director. tion Shade 45, Eminem bared what it was like on you make a mistake before, ever.’ Like, perfor- thanked all those who supported the launch of their Panganiban is set to work with drama queen finally working with “Queen Bey” on a song. mance-wise, everything. Every song she puts out, newest production house they called Bright Bulb Judy Ann Santos for the upcoming Star Cinema “First of all, Beyoncé is amazing!,” he said, every album, it’s so calculated and precise. And Productions. film, “Ang Dalawang Mrs. Reyes.” (Clarizel Aba- as relayed by The Citizen. “It’s been on my wish everything’s always so perfect.” (Khristian Ibar- She also thanked the bloggers and select mem- nilla / inquirer.net) rola / inquirer.net) bers of the press and bloggers who attended the list for a long time. But I never really had a song B8 FilAm Star November 23 - 29, 2017