Ex-social welfare Sec. Duterte anti-American no PH retains title Poll reveals opinions on STEALING FREE gave funds to the NPA matter who is president over Indonesia Charlotesville NEWSPAPER IS STILL A CRIME !

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WEEKLY ISSUE 70 CITIES IN 11 STATES ONLINE Vol. IX Issue 438 1028 Mission Street, 2/F, San Francisco, CA 94103 Tel. (415) 593-5955 or (650) 278-0692 [email protected] Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 Robredo says Comelec chief impeachment doesn’t mean she cheated in election By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent

After an impeachment complaint tions of his estranged wife, Patricia was finally filed against Commission Cruz, that he amassed illegal wealth. on Elections (Comelec) Chairman An- Macalintal stressed that the alleged dres Bautista at the House of Repre- evidence of Bautista’s hidden wealth sentatives, the camp of Vice-president did not mention any act committed by Leni Robredo was quick to announce the Comelec Chief that compromised that this does not imply there was any the results of last year’s elections. irregularity in her tight 2016 election He also noted that Cruz never victory over former Sen. Ferdinand mentioned any alleged “commission” “Bongbong” Marcos. or “referral fees” received by Bautista Robredo’s lawyer, Romulo Ma- for purposes of cheating or rigging calintal, said there is no factual basis the elections in favor of any candi- to doubt the results of the 2016 elec- date. tions, noting that Bautista cannot by In effect, Macalintal said the himself manipulate the results of the impeachment complaint filed against elections in favor of any candidates. Bautista will have no bearing on the (L-R_ Sen. Bongbong Marcos, Vice President Leni Robredo, and COMELEC Chairman Andres Bautista The complaint filed against Bau- ongoing electoral protest filed (Photos: www.notey.com / www. pinoytambayani.blogspot.com) tista is based largely on the allega- TO PAGE A7 Ex-Customs commissioner points to Nickleodeon pulls out of senator’s son as ‘top smuggler’ By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent theme park development project Sen. Richard Gordon, By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent chair of the Senate Blue Rib- bon Committee, called on “Coron is no longer Bikini Bottom.” With these words, former Customs Commissioner environmental activists celebrated the announcement last Nicanor Faeldon to submit week that Viacom International Media Networks, owner documents to support his of the Nickelodeon brand, had pulled out of the develop- accusations that Sen. Panfilo ment in Palawan that would have hosted its first resort in Lacson’s son is the top smug- Southeast Asia. gler at the Bureau of Customs “We thank all the supporters of the petition and cam- (BoC). paign for this milestone. The battle is not over: we still need (L-R) Pampi Lacson and Ex-Commissioner Nic Faeldon TO PAGE A7 to remain vigilant and monitor updates about the proposed (Photo: www.philnews.xyz) attraction,” Save Philippine Seas, the community-based marine conservation group that launched an online petition against the planned development, posted on its City battle nearing end, says AFP page August 22 after learning of the Nickelodeon exit. Coral World Park (CWP) Undersea Resorts, developer By William Casis | FilAm Star Correspondent of the project dubbed as the “world’s first undersea attrac- tion,” confirmed Viacom’s exit on August 24 but emphasized The military is now preparing for (Photo: www.astigtxt.biz) TO PAGE A7 the “one big battle” that would liberate Marawi City from the Maute terrorists after regaining the city’s police station Texas storm Harvey breaks historic rainfall record and Grand Mosque last week, said Hurricane Harvey has set what According to the latest report from inarily as one for the entire continental Armed Forces Chief (AFP) Eduardo forecasters believe is a new rainfall re- the National Hurricane Center, the United States. Año. cord for the continental United States, data comes from a rain gauge south- He added that confirming it “will He made the statement even as officials said Tuesday. east of Houston. take a lot of research,” as experts security forces on Monday killed 10 Harvey, swirling for the past few “Mary’s Creek at Winding Road review water gauges and past histori- Islamic State-inspired terrorists in an days off Texas and Louisiana -- at recorded 49.32 inches (125.27 centi- cal records -- a process likely to take encounter on Lake Lanao. times as a hurricane and at times a meters) as of 9 am CDT,” (1400 GMT), several weeks. Año said the final battle was pos- tropical storm -- has dumped more the NHC said. Harvey made landfall in Texas on sible as the area where the remaining than 49 inches (124.5 centimeters) of “This total is higher than the pre- Friday as a Category Four hurricane. It terrorists were holding out has grown Western Command Spokesman rain on the region. vious record of 48 inches (121.9 cen- has since weakened to a tropical storm much smaller. Jo-Ann Petinglay “The record for total rainfall from timeters) set during tropical cyclone but is still unleashing massive amounts “Formerly they were spread out, (Photo: www.youtube.com) a tropical system has been BROKEN!” Amelia of 1978 at Medina, Texas.” of rain over Texas and Louisiana. they are now consolidating their the National Weather Service Houston NHC spokesman Dennis Feltgen (AFP) remaining fighters and positions,” he TO PAGE A7 announced on . said the record is being treated prelim- A2 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 ph news Duterte admits ex-social welfare chief funneled gov’t funds to NPA 2nd Declaration of Conduct in South By Daniel Llanto | FilAm Star Correspondent China Sea convened in

Now it can be told: Presi- Program, went to the NPA. will give Agrarian Reforms Sec. By Macon Araneta | FilAm Star Correspondent dent declined Taguiwalo however got off Rafael Mariano, another leftist to re-appoint former Depart- lightly with Duterte only letting Cabinet member who is sched- Department of Foreign Af- time accidents, and to preserve environment protection, marine ment of Social Welfare and De- her go as retribution of sorts. uled to face the CA on August fairs (DFA) Sec. Alan Peter Cay- and protect the marine environ- scientific research, safety of navi- velopment (DSWD) Sec. Judy The reason was that Duterte 30. Like Taguiwalo when she etano said Monday that experts ment and promote sustainable gation and communication at sea, Taguiwalo after her rejection by said he sees nothing wrong if was DSWD chief, Mariano is the from the along with fisheries,” he added. search and rescue operations and the Commission on Appoint- Taguiwalo channeled meant- object of complaints for suppos- those from other ASEAN member Senior diplomats, policy- combatting transnational crime ments because she funneled the for-the-poor government funds edly channeling agrarian reform states and China are meeting makers and maritime coopera- [at sea]” pending a comprehen- multi-billion-peso Conditional to NPA rebels whose ranks are funds to the NPA. in Manila this week to build on tion scholars from the member sive and durable settlement of Cash Transfer (CCT) funds impoverished too. There are at least 10 achievements to build peace and states of ASEAN and China, as the disputes. stability in the South China Sea. well as representatives from This is the second such to her comrades in the New “My guidance is — even to separate oppositions in this vein In a statement, the DFA said think tanks and the academe, will seminar convened by the DFA. People’s Army (NPA) on the sly. the military — is that if it’s food, filed with CA against Mariano’s it will host the seminar on the full exchange views on how to further The first seminar, which the DFA Duterte indirectly admitted don’t stop it,” Duterte said. nomination. These include and effective implementation of enhance practical cooperation organized in 2015, focused dis- that his former DSWD secretary “If Taguiwalo is giving three barangays in Tarlac and the 2002 Declaration of Conduct between ASEAN and China in the cussions on peaceful settlement may have provided the sworn opposition by six of Parties in the South China Sea South China Sea. of disputes and what constitutes armed communist rebels private citizens. (DOC) on August 28 and 29. Cayetano said the seminar “self-restraint” as it applies to with CCT funds while Members of the “The seminar seeks to build will also highlight the com- activities of claimant states in the she helmed the agency Makabayan bloc, a left- on what we have achieved so far mitment of the Philippines to South China Sea. that administers this ist group linked to the in our efforts to build trust and implement the DOC while efforts Paragraph 5 of the DOC assistance program for Communist Party of confidence among the parties continue to come out with a calls on all parties to the dispute the “poorest of the poor.” the Philippines, earlier involved in the South China Sea substantive and effective Code of to “exercise self-restraint in the The CCT program was claimed that their com- issue,” Cayetano said. Conduct. conduct of activities that would allotted all of PHP 44.25 rade Mariano, a former “The seminar also seeks to Paragraph 6 of the DOC complicate or escalate disputes billion in 2013. Anakpawis party-list boost regional efforts to ensure calls on ASEAN and China to and affect peace and stability”. The appointment representative, is ex- peace and stability in the South “explore or undertake coopera- as DSWD secretary of pected to be rejected by China Sea, to help prevent mari- tive activities [including] marine Taguiwalo, a confirmed the CA. card-carrying communist The above-ground officer, was unanimously leftists, as well as the rejected by the powerful self-exiled communists Opposition solons doubt Marcoses’ willingness 25-man bicameral Court Former DSWD Sec. in the Netherlands, of Appeals (CA) some two (Photo: www.youtube.com) were once allied with to return ill-gotten wealth weeks ago. Duterte during peace When this happened, money, I’m sure that it’s for the talks between government and Opposition lawmakers human rights violations to over nothing,” he added. Taguiwalo complained of the poor, since there are many poor communist panels abroad. on Tuesday cast doubt on the amassing $10-B in ill-gotten For his part, Baguilat said cold shoulder she received and hungry NPA members,” he But Duterte cut off the pronouncement of President wealth. If they return the stolen he found it “odd” the President from Duterte. She said: “Mr. added. peace talks with the commu- Rodrigo Duterte that the family wealth and make a public con- spoke on behalf of the Marcos President I kept faith with you. But Duterte said it is nists as the NPA continued to of former President Ferdinand fession of their deeds, without family. I’m just sad because I don’t another matter if the funds extort money from business Marcos would be “willing to conditions nor seeking immu- The Ifugao lawmaker posed think you kept faith with me at were used for armed purposes. firms and continued killing open” and “return” to the gov- nity from criminal prosecution, this question: “Would this also the end.” “What I’m really worried about soldiers despite ceasefire agree- ernment their alleged ill-gotten it is an unexpected miracle,” mean that they are willing to The former DSWD secre- is that (the NPA) may have used ments. wealth, which supposedly Villarin said. admit that they had indeed tary said she’s proud to show funds to purchase bullets and ACT Teachers party-list includes gold bars. But the lawmaker feared it amass ill-gotten wealth and are what leftists are capable of arms because of the pronounce- Rep. Antonio Tinio said leftist In separate statements, could just be another propagan- willing to subject themselves doing in government. “Thanks ment of (CPP founding chair- lawmakers at the House of Akbayan Rep. Tom Villarin and da stunt of the President amid to the justice mill for crimes for showing the people that the man Jose Maria) Sison that Representatives have “practi- Ifugao Rep. Teddy Baguilat public outrage over the spate of against the people?” Left can serve with dignity, with they are expanding, that they cally” broken their alliance with expressed doubt that the Mar- summary killings in his war on In November last year, compassion, no corruption and are recruiting,” Duterte said. Duterte. Interviewed during coses would be willing to return drugs. Duterte allowed giving a heroes’ with love for the people,” she “Therefore, they would the launching of the Movement the alleged ill-gotten wealth “Otherwise, this is just pure burial to the late dictator at added need more arms. They can buy, Against Tyranny Coalition in accumulated during their two- propaganda to lure the public the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Duterte seemed convinced ambush, steal, or extort, what- on August 28, Tin- decade regime. to a false sense of reality where despite public outrage. Duterte that Taguiwalo maneuvered so ever,” he added. io said this was due to Duterte’s Villarin called the sudden public outrage over killings and the former president’s son, that the bulk of the money for The manner by which Du- pronouncements on certain turn-around of the Marcoses an have risen to a crescendo,” former Sen. Ferdinand “Bong- the CCT program, also known terte dealt with Taguiwalo may issues and other progressive “unexpected miracle.” Villarin said “ should bong” Marcos, are also allies. as Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino well be the same treatment he matters. “The Marcoses are ac- know better when we are taken (Marc Jayson Cayabyab / cused of high crimes against the for a ride or not.” inquirer.net) JOIN US Filipino people from massive “This could be much ado For a Rewarding Career in Healthcare NOW HIRING • Certified Nursing Assistants • Caregivers • Home Health Aides

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Minsan na ring may mga appointment of one of his “top police know of any illegal activ- was shot inside his detention cell killed, Senator noted that the country’s history naligaw ng landas, pero natuto, cops in the drug war” as Iloilo ity by Mabilog, Dela Rosa said in Baybay City, Leyte. nagabayan, at naging mabubut- City chief of police, is a strong “None, I think, because Odicta is Espenido was also the police ing Pilipino,” De Lima said. signal for Mayor Jed Patrick dead, he has nobody to protect,” commander of Albuera, Leyte “Minsan din lang nagka- Mabilog to stop his alleged referring to alleged Iloilo top when Espinosa Sr. was killed in roon ng 7-taong gulang na Sani- involvement in illegal drugs. Du- drug lord Melvin Odicta who was what the National Bureau of In- ño Butucan ng Cebu, 5-taong terte earlier described Iloilo City gunned down by an unknown as- vestigation called a rubout inside gulang na Danica May Garcia as the “bedrock of illegal drugs in sailant in 2016. the jail. ng Pangasinan at Francisco Visayas.” Senate Minority Leader For his part in Duterte’s anti- Manosca ng Pasay, ng 4-taong When asked if Police Chief Franklin Drilon admitted as a drug campaign, Espenido was gulang na Althea Fhem Barbon Inspector Jovie Espenido’s new “cause for concern” the appoint- awarded the Magalong Medal, ng Negros Oriental, at 17-taong post serves as a warning to gov- ment of Espenido as police chief Order of Lapu-Lapu by the Presi- ernment officials in cahoots with by Duterte. Espenido has been dent. He also received a special gulang na Kian delos Santos ng drug traffickers, the President linked to the killings of two may- award during the PNP Service Caloocan. Minsan lang. Pero replied: “I’ll tell you again, Mayor, ors involved in illegal drugs. Anniversary. pinagkaitan ng pamahalaang you are being implicated. For the Drilon, however, acknowl- Former PNP Chief Sen. Pan- ito na mangarap at maging longest time, the updated list, edged that the posting of Espe- filo Lacson said of Espenido, “I bahagi ng isang higit na mabuti you’re on it.” nido in Iloilo City is a prerogative knew him as a focussed, diligent at mapagkalingang lipunan,” He warned Mabilog not to of the President. and upright police non-com- she added. protect anyone involved in drug Drilon is Mabilog’s cousin. missioned officer when he was While people cannot list trafficking and not to call police Espenido was in the news working with me at the defunct down all the heroes’ names in for favors. He said such acts following the death of Albuera Presidential Anti-Organized just one page, De Lima said would make him as bad as a drug Mayor Rolando Espinosa Sr., Crime Task Force 17 years ago. “ Senator Leila De Lima the public could give justice to (Photo: www.sunstar.com.ph) lord. father of the alleged Eastern their sacrifice by “respecting the rights and dignity of humans, said Monday. proved a “cycle of defeat and and by fighting for a just and “Alalahanin sana natin: rising up.” humane future.” Hindi nagbuwis ng buhay ang “Kung babalikan ang “Tunay po: Hindi maisusu- mga naunang Pilipino para kasaysayan, mapapansing lat sa mga pahina ng kasay- mabawi ang kalayaan mula sa dumadaan tayo sa siklo ng sayan ang lahat ng pangalan dayuhan, para lamang ngayon pagkadapa at pagbangon, sa ng mga bayani. Pero sa pag- ay hayaan natin ang pagpatay pagkapiit at paglaya mula sa galang sa karapatang pantao, ng libo-libong Pilipino,” De mapaniil na pamamahala, at sa sa pagmamalasakit sa dignidad Lima’s statement for National pagkaapi at pagpapanagot sa ng Pilipino, at pagtataguyod ng Heroes’ Day said. mga abusadong pinuno. May isang makatao at makatarun- “Hindi nag-alay ng buhay mga panahong natututo tayo gang kinabukasan, nabibigyan ang marami nating kababayan at nagkakaisa, pero may mga ng saysay ang ipinaglaban ng para ipagtanggol ang pamban- yugtong nakakalimot din at ating mga bayani,” the senator sang dangal kung ipamimigay nagkakanya-kanya,” she said. said. lang din natin ang ating mga The senator also noted “Sa pagpapatuloy ng kanil- teritoryo. Hindi nagkaisa ang some minors who were killed ang nasimulan, sa pag-una sa milyon-milyong Pilipino sa amid President Rodrigo Du- kapakanan ng bayan kahit sa EDSA at humarap sa tiyak na terte’s drug war, which she said munti nating mga paraan, tayo peligro, para lang bumalik “were deprived of the chance to ay maituturing na ring mga tayo sa rehimen ng marahas dream.” bayani,” De Lima added. (Path- at malupit na diktadurya,” the “Minsang isinilang ang ricia Ann V. Roxas / inquirer. senator added. isang bata sa at paglaon net) De Lima, who is detained ay naging pambansang bayani. at the Philippine National Minsang nangarap ang maram-

Call to advertise visit our website 1-415-593-5955 x141 www.filamstar.com A4 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 ph news ‘Duterte is ideologically anti-American, Binay urges court to block ‘guilty’ no matter who is in the White House’ Aspillaga testimony in graft trial By Lara Climaco | FilAm Star Correspondent Former mayor She said Aspillaga’s testi- the GSD which he heads is in Elenita Binay has asked the mony of a “sham bidding” in the charge of preparing all the bid- Amid recent rumblings ate at higher altitudes compared saber-rattling, but it wasn’t an to prevent the Makati city hall under her helm ding documents… He admits over Chinese activity in the to smaller-sized versions and invasion of Philippine territory testimony of her former ally, is “immaterial” and “irrelevant” that his office has a collection South China Sea, Admiral Harry can stay overhead for up to two as far as the international com- former Makati City general ser- to the allegations, and that it of bidding forms which are Harris Jr., commander of the weeks, according to information munity is concerned,” he added. vices department head Ernesto advances the prosecution’s filled out to make it appear that United States Pacific Command, on the TCOM website. Asked to assess the state Aspillaga, whom she tagged as “new theory” this late in the supplies competed with a pre- visited Manila to meet with “Through this donation, the of U.S.-Philippines relations the “most guilty” in the alleged trial proper. selected supplier in a regular President Rodrigo Duterte and PN is poised to enhance its ca- more than a year into Duterte’s sham bidding for the procure- The introduction of Aspilla- bidding,” Binay said. other Philippine officials. The pability in maritime intelligence term, Poling said: “I think we’ll ment of city hall furniture in ga’s testimony only validated “Accused Binay submits visit was preceded by the deliv- surveillance and reconnaissance continue to tread water. Duterte 1999. her position that the prosecu- that if the allegations in the af- ery of an observation blimp that by effectively detecting mari- is ideologically anti-American. Binay filed a motion for tion is “uncertain about the fidavit of accused Aspillaga are will equip the Philippines with time and air traffic within the That’s not going to change. It reconsideration before the anti- theory of their case” in the first to be believed by the Honor- real-time data in its maritime country’s coastal waters using doesn’t matter how positive graft court Fifth Division seek- place, Binay said. able Court, then his discharge surveillance. sensors. Moreover, it will also meetings are with U.S. Cabinet ing to reverse the court’s Aug. 3 The case involved the al- becomes all the more unwar- Malacañang was sparse in be utilized in humanitarian as- officials, it doesn’t matter who decision denying her motion to leged irregular purchase and ranted under Section 17 of Rule disclosing details of Harris’s sistance and disaster response is in the White House.” expunge. rigged bidding of P72.06-mil- 119, he being the most guilty August 23 courtesy call, except (HADR) operations,” the U.S. Despite Duterte’s routine Binay lamented the lion worth of furniture for the among all of the accused,” the to say that regional security was embassy in Manila said in its expressions of anti-American flipflopping resolutions of the city hall in 1999. document read. the focus of their discussion. press release. sentiments, however, joint court, whose latest resolution Binay added that Aspill- The court earlier allowed In a separate press release, PN personnel will train for exercises between U.S. and reversed a Dec. 2016 resolution aga’s allegations — which she another former ally now foe the U.S. embassy in Manila six weeks to learn how to oper- Philippine military forces have which favored the accused. said cannot be corroborated by Ernesto Mercado to testify in said talks included upcoming ate and maintain the equip- been unhampered. In June, PN Binay said the court material evidence — that his the graft trial of Binay. bilateral engagements, recent ment. joined the U.S. Navy in a seven- should resolve first her motion office has a collection of bid- Mercado and Aspillaga are aid and military assistance Recent sightings of Chinese day maritime training designed to expunge, which the court ding forms which they fill up former allies of the family of provided by the U.S. govern- ships at Sandy Cay, a sandbar to improve their ability to mistakenly lumped with her op- to make it appear companies Binay and her husband former ment, and opportunities for near Thitu Island which is operate together. Both forces position ad cautelam that was participated in a “sham bid- vice president , additional support in Marawi. known locally as Pag-asa Island, conducted a coordinated patrol later denied. ding,” only shows that Aspillaga who also faces graft and malver- Aside from the Palace, Harris have raised flak over China in the Sulu Sea afterwards. Pira- She said her motion to ex- is the “most guilty among all the sation charges over the alleged went to the Libingan ng mga invading Philippine territory. cy and sea smuggling, maritime punge should take precedence accused.” rigged bidding of the Makati car Bayani in Taguig and traveled Duterte has dismissed demands domain awareness and patrol, over the prosecution’s motion Binay maintained she had park building. to Zamboanga to meet the com- to protect the country’s domain, and HADR preparedness are for reconsideration (MR), which no participation as Makati The former vice president mander of the Armed Forces of saying he won’t spill Filipino the major themes of their col- should not have been granted mayor in the preparation of bid- had also been earlier indicted the Philippines’ (AFP) Western blood over a sandbar nor invoke laboration. for being “patently defective.” ding documents. by the Ombudsman to face Mindanao Command. the Mutual Defense Treaty with Balikatan exercises involv- Binay maintained that the “Indeed, accused Aspillaga fresh charges this time involv- On August 22, the Joint the U.S. ing all units of the AFP are also prosecution’s MR is a “mere detailed his participation as ing alleged rigged bidding in the U.S. Military Assistance Group Satellite imagery captured ongoing, with the latest round scrap of paper” and should be head of the General Services Makati Science High School. in the Philippines (Jusmag) by the Asia Maritime Trans- done in May. Last month, mem- expunged from the records for Department (GSD) of the city (Marc Jayson Cayabyab / turned over a new 28M Class parency Initiative (AMTI) of bers of the Philippine Marine being “fatally defective” having of Makati during the period inquirer.net) Tethered Aerostat Radar Sys- Washington, D.C.-based think Corps (PMC) trained for the been heard beyond the 10-day when the offenses complained tem (TARS) to the Philippine tank Center for Strategic and first time at the U.S. military period under the Rules of Court. of occured… More importantly, Navy (PN). The blimp is a self- International Studies confirms base in Okinawa. sustained, rapidly deployable, the presence of at least nine Jusmag has turned over unmanned lighter-than-air plat- Chinese fishing ships along weapons to the Philippine Air form that can rise to an altitude with two others that looked like Force (PAF) and PMC on vari- Duterte’s promises failed us — indigenous group of 5,000 feet while tethered by Coast Guard and Navy patrol ous occasions this year to boost ment at the University of the a single cable, according to the ships. the government’s counterter- Philippines (UP) Diliman, U.S. embassy in Manila. “We can substantiate the rorism efforts, especially in Quezon City, from September It was delivered to the PN’s facts in the water. As far as the Marawi. PAF also received two 1 to 21. The UP community will training facility in San Anto- implied motivation on China’s new Cessna 208B aircraft worth welcome the cultural groups on nio, Zambales, where there is part, we can’t,” Gregory Poling, PHP 1.67 billion last month. August 31. enough space and flat terrain AMTI director, said in a recent Grenade launchers will be add- “Intensified militarization, to launch the system that is podcast with online news maga- ed to the weapons deliveries, bombings and harassments considered superior to ground- zine The Diplomat. according to the U.S. embassy has displaced many of them,” based radar. “It’s also fair to say that the in Manila. Sandugo said. TCOM, manufacturer of claims that this was an inva- The U.S. government has “Now, they march again the blimps, describes TARS sion were obviously overblown. set aside PHP 15 billion in and with a common hymn to as an eye in the sky providing There is no evidence the Chi- military aid to the Philippines fight against oppression and ex- National Minorities Alliance ploitation,” the alliance added. round-the-clock monitoring. It nese (set) foot on any of these over the last five years alone, its (Photo: www.flickr.com) has been used in conflict zones sand cays. They didn’t use any embassy said. Sandugo will also hold in the Middle East, Afghanistan violence. All of these waters are More than 3,000 members came to Manila but “promises a press conference which and the Indian sub-continent, claimed as territorial seas by of the “national minorities” made by President (Rodrigo) they said would “unmask the the company said on its website. both China and the Philippines. are set to march to Manila on Duterte failed them,” Sandugo, President in the eyes of the TARS has also been deployed They are legally in dispute as Call to advertise August 31 to assert their call a national alliance of IPs and national minorities” on 9 a.m. for border security and counter far as everybody else is con- against “oppression and exploi- the Bangsamoro, said in a state- on Tuesday, August 29, at the narcotics operations in the U.S. cerned. It was undoubtedly a 1-415-593-5955 x141 tation.” ment. International Center of UP Dili- and the Caribbean, it added. provocative act and we should A year ago, indigenous The indigenous groups will man. (Pathricia Ann V. Roxas / The 28M Class TARS can oper- be concerned about this kind of peoples (IPs) from Mindanao set “Kampuhan” or encamp- inquirer.net) FilAm Star Classifieds (650)278-0692 . (415)593-5955

Caregiver & Administrator Experienced caregiver, CAN, LVN, RN, and Administrator. For San Rafael. CA ARF Facility. Flexible Hours, Competitive compensation. Live in position available. Applicant may qualify for 15% to 20% pay raise immediately. Please Email your resume and cover letter to [email protected] or call 415-225-6868 Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star A5 sports Philippines defends basketball title, rips Indonesia for the gold news team captain Kiefer Ravena, who has now won fourth straight SEA Games titles. PHILIPPINE The flashy point guard served as the pillar for Gilas, which wasn’t very consistent all tournament TEAMS long and only played as one cohe- sive unit in the final. UPDATE He made seven points aside from providing leadership in the team that was assembled off the pool members who weren’t chosen Centeno, Biado lead 4-gold haul for the Fiba Asian Cup held the previous week. KUALA LUMPUR—Carlo old Biado, also a gold medalist The head judge ruled that “Given the chance, I will play Biado and Chezka Centeno in the recent World Games in the Filipino jin had accumu- for the Philippines once again,” swept billiards’ 9-ball singles Poland. lated 10 gamjeoms (penalties) said Ravena referring to the 2019 finals, taekwondo jin Samuel As of 9:30 p.m. Sunday, the and was disqualified, although Games that will be held in Manila. Morrison prevailed in what Philippines remained mired in the Philippine camp insisted Mike Tolomia topscored with could be his farewell Southeast sixth place with 22 golds, 28 sil- that Alcantara had only nine 20 points including five three- pointers as Gilas found its mark Asian Games fight and Filipino- vers and 55 bronzes, three days as indicated on the electronic early in the match to pull away be- Japanese teen Mariya Taka- left before the Games end. scoreboard. yond the reach of the Indonesians. hashi rocked the judo competi- At nearby Hall 1, Samuel With 13 seconds left in the “We shot very well tonight, tion as Team Philippines raised Morrison used his late grand- third and final round, Alcantara that’s the key,” said coach Jong rallied from 13-16 down with Uichico who handled the team a kick to the Malaysian’s head, even as Chot Reyes, head coach of worth four points, but was Gilas’ Team A, arrived in the city (Photo: www.interaksyon.com) penalized for slipping, leading Friday. to the 17-all deadlock. Kobe Paras added 14 points— KUALA LUMPUR—When all MABA Stadium, the Philippines, Had the judge allowed the flashing his highlight-reel moves to else fails, at least win the basket- sending its Team B here, claimed match to proceed, both jins the delight the gallery. ball gold. its 12th straight SEA Games gold Fil-German Christian would have gone on to sudden- While Team Philippines took medal in a show of undeniable Standhardinger chipped 11 as he death, with the first to score a defeats from several corners, Gilas might. provided muscle underneath when point taking the gold. Pilipinas made sure to pocket the The Philippines has won 18 Indonesia was trying to drag the Takahashi, 16, also stole gold that the country craves for the titles in all having lost the crown Filipinos to a slow-burn, half court the thunder from four-time most, drubbing Indonesia, 94-55, just once—in the 1989 edition that game. (Marc Anthony Reyes / for the Southeast Asian Games was incidentally held in this city. champion Surattana Thongsri inquirer.net) men’s basketball title Saturday. “It’s a wonderful feeling for of Thailand via ippon in the first Before an overflow crowd at me. It’s icing on the cake,” said 43 seconds of their women’s -70kg event. Olympian Michael Mar- Alyssa Valdez calls for unity in Philippine volleyball tinez, meanwhile, settled for Chezka Centeno (right) and Rubilen Amit (left) finished gold and silver second place in the men’s KUALA LUMPUR — Alyssa said Valdez. “Other teams spent hosted by the country, Valdez said: respectively for the Philippines in the singles 9-ball competition Valdez wants a united Philippine years to win medals here.” “There won’t be any excuses any- (Photo: www.news.abs-cbn.com) individual free skating event volleyball. She added she wants to “move more. We’re playing in the home after crashing in the middle of “I hope we add more players forward” to the next Southeast soil. We will give our 110 percent.” his routine. and we become open [minded]. Asian Games. The Philippine team was its gold-medal haul to 22 on mother as inspiration to score Martinez scored a total of I hope we become united,” said The highly popular spiker, formed just three months ago and Sunday. a 28-18 win over Dinggo Ard 171.63 points, paving the way Valdez in Filipino. “This is the start who made 17 points as the trained in Japan before playing, The 18-year-old Centeno Prayogo of Indonesia, in the -74 for Malaysian Julian Zhi-Jie of good relations in Philippine Philippines lost bronze medal to and placing eighth, in the Asian kept her title with a 7-6 decision kilogram division final. Yee (205.43) to claim the gold. volleyball.” Vietnam, said she’s committed to Championships days before the over two-time world champion That somehow eased the Another Malaysian, Khai Xiang Without pointing that out, play for the national team in more SEA Games began. Rubilen Amit at KLCC Hall 4. grief of SEA Games rookie Chew (145.52), bagged bronze. she’s referring to the protracted competitions in the future. The Nationals, she said, were cold war between the top com- “It’s not an issue. Every ath- just on the receiving end of beating Biado then plucked the Arven Alcantara losing the -68 The Philippines finished mercial leagues in the country, the lete when given the opportunity to from tough teams like Vietnam men’s gold—the country’s kg gold. with 29 golds medals each well established Premier Volleyball play for the country will do so all and Thailand. fourth for the day—over Duong Alcantara settled for silver during the 2013 Myanmar and League and the more dynamic with her heart,” said Valdez. “We’re are just taking it all Quoc Hoang of Vietnam, 9-5. as hometown bet Rozaimi bin 2015 Singapore SEA Games. Philippine Superliga. She is batting for a Philip- in,” said Valdez. “Hopefully, we “I know that I have all the Rozali was ruled the winner by (Marc Anthony Reyes / in- “As a team we need to train pine team with new additions and gain from this.” (Marc Anthony breaks and that boosted my “punitive declaration” with the quirer.net) together. Play together in different longer preparation. Reyes / inquirer.net) confidence” said the 33-year- scores deadlocked at 17-all. places in the country or abroad,” In the 2019 SEA Games, to be A6 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 opinion Street Talk PerryScope On being a Filipino American in Europe

In defense of Philippine sovereignty GREG B. MACABENTA would create undue hardships for the family. “My wife would rather divorce me,” he moaned. “She likes hav- PERRY DIAZ relations with the rest of the world is, to put it If you’re Pinoys travel- ing maids in the Philippines.” mildly, irresponsible. ing through Europe with US I liked the sound of that. being also partial to stuff Recently, Sandy Cay, But it was the commander-in-chief himself passports, you invariably get made in the Philippines. At this, he clarified that his a sandbar near Pag-Asa who surrendered control of Sandy Cay to the Chi- asked interesting questions wife couldn’t stand the thought of going back to doing Island, a Philippine ter- nese. “China assured me [Duterte] that they will by locals, like this casual the laundry, washing the dishes, cooking, cleaning the ritory in the Kalayaan not build anything there. I called the Ambassador conversation with a fellow house, tending the garden and taking care of the kids. The work of maids. They had three plus a driver and a Group of Islands in the [when I read the news]. He said, ‘We will assure in Marseille, at a café by the Quai Du Port. gardener. you that we are not building anything there.’ Why Spratlys, became the cen- “You must be Filipi- “Why don’t you just bring the maids and the rest ter of contention between would they risk invading a sandbar and get into nos,” he ventures. “So what of the help back to the US with you?” I suggested. President Rodrigo Du- a quarrel with us? [What will they get out of it?] do you think of your presi- “Can’t afford them on my State Department terte and Supreme Court But didn’t the Chinese promise that they will not dent, Rodrigo Duterte?” salary,” he replied – and then, realizing his slip of the Senior Associate Justice militarize the artificial islands they built around These days, you’re bound to get into a heated ar- tongue, he quickly corrected himself. “I mean, my Antonio Carpio. seven reefs in the Spratly archipelago – on Philip- gument over the Duterte presidency, or that of Donald social worker’s salary” In a statement released to the press, Carpio pine territory? Trump, especially in Europe. But if you’ve had a couple That was a dead giveaway. “This guy is a spy,” I said Chinese Navy ships and other vessels have But the most ridiculous – and downright of glasses of sangria or chianti or bordeaux, you don’t concluded. Of course, spies are supposed to have cover sto- encroached in the Sandy Cay’s 12-nautical mile stupid – reaction came from no less than Philip- mind a vigorous exchange. It also helps to have family members backing you up, in case the conversation gets ries. That reminds me of the Washington Post expose pine Coast Guard Commodore Joel Garcia who territorial waters. “In short, Sandy Cay is a Philip- out of hand. about a new spy agency, the SSB, being set up by then pine land territory that is being seized, to put said, “As what the Secretary of Foreign Affairs “I’m a dual citizen,” I answer with a smile. “Du- US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. According it mildly, or being invaded, to put it frankly, by [Cayetano] mentioned earlier, if it does not affect terte is my president and so is Donald Trump.” to the Post, Pentagon officials who were vehemently China,” he said. our sovereignty, specifically the areas where we “Then what are you smiling about?” comes the denying the existence of the SSB, had explained that it Carpio was referring to information that have sovereign rights, I don’t think the Chinese quick riposte. was “a new organization designed to operate without Magdalo party-list Rep. Gary Alejano disclosed vessels are violating international law.” I can’t be- He pursues the subject of Duterte’s war on drugs. detection and, under the Defense Department’s direct from his sources in the military stating that lieve that the top honcho of the Coast Guard who “I don’t he’ll think succeed, except in killing a lot of control, deploy small teams of case officers, linguists, China has deployed two frigates, one Coast Guard is in charge of defending the country’s territory people.” interrogators and technical specialists alongside newly empowered special operations forces, and essentially vessel, and two large fishing vessels, with their has no idea what “sovereignty” and “sovereign “Just like Popeye Doyle in the film, The French Connection,” I respond. “I believe the movie was shot replace the CIA’s Directorate of Operations.” rights” mean. maritime militia, within three miles of Pag-Asa on location right here at this port.” I add that the The Post added that, after explaining the opera- Island. Silence is deafening French know something about dealing in drugs. tions of the SSB, the Pentagon officials reiterated their Carpio said President Rodrigo Duterte and With all this hullabaloo going on, the ulti- He quickly pivots. “Your President Trump and denial of its existence. Foreign Secretary have the mate guardians of the country’s territory, Defense President Duterte are both playing with fire, aren’t In fact, I did bump into one of the SSB operatives constitutional duty to defend and protect Philip- Secretary (a retired three-star they? Trump with the Russians and Duterte with the at Greenbelt in Makati, enjoying an early evening char- pine territory. “The very least that they could do general) and AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Año (a Chinese. If you’re a dual citizen, that’s like double donnay. A socialite friend introduced us. In Manila, so- now is to vigorously protest this invasion of Phil- four-star general) are uncharacteristically quiet. jeopardy.” cialites, politicians, columnists and spies routinely rub ippine territory by China,” Carpio said. “If both Why the quietude? Which makes one wonder: I let that pass, not being keen on getting into a elbows and knees with each other. And share bottles of chardonnay, cabernet or merlot. He didn’t actually are courageous, they should send a Philippine are they under a gag order? fight over Trump or Duterte. At the Colosseum in Rome, this guy is particu- admit that he was connected with the Strategic Support Indeed, their silence is deafening except for Navy ship to guard Sandy Cay and if the Chinese larly interested in the topic of international espionage, Branch (SSB for short). He said he was a field worker Navy ships attack the Philippine Navy vessel, the AFP spokesman Brig. Gen. Restituto Padilla, involving Trump and Duterte. “Do you think Trump is of the Social Services Bayanihan, a charitable organiza- they should invoke the Philippine-U.S. Mutual who has the unenviable “PR” job of justifying the a Russian puppet?” he asks with obvious malice. tion. SSB for short. Defense Treaty (MDT).” MDT is a 1951 treaty unjustifiable. In response to a reporter’s ques- “Maybe Trump just owes the Russian billionaires “My job is to go to the rural areas and do baya- that binds the two countries to come to the aid of tion at a Malacañang press conference, he said: a ton of money,” I reply, “Or he’s trying to collect gam- nihan with the farmers and ordinary barrio folk,” each other if attacked. “We will work to clarify all of these things [at] bling debts from the Russian Mafia. They’re as bad as he explained. “We try to find out what their needs “If Sandy Cay becomes Chinese territory, it the bilateral consultative mechanism,” which is the Italian Mafia.” are – you know, sanitation, health services – and we will reduce by a third or more Pag-asa’s territo- the regular dialogue between the Philippines and “There must be hundreds of KGB spies in provide for those needs with funds from our charitable organization.” rial sea, depending on how large a reclaimed area China, covering various issues, including territo- America,” he says. “About as many as there are in Western Europe,” I “Some of the people you deal with could be NPA rial disputes. My reaction? Hahaha… China will create out of Sandy Cay,” Carpio said. shoot back. “A lot of CIA agents, too.” or MILF cadre,” I cautioned. “It will also prevent the Philippines from extend- But I really feel sorry for Padilla, who is I point out that sending spies at great expense to “Is that so?” he exclaimed, as if hearing about ing the territorial sea of Pag-asa to include Subi paid to do a “snow job.” But if he does well in the US is probably a waste of money. “All they need to them for the first time. “Can you imagine that? Real (Zamora) Reef.” defending the indefensible, he just might earn his do is read theWashington Post, the New York Times live, genuine NPA and MILF cadre! I mean, do they National security second star and move up the food chain. But at and watch CNN. The White House leaks are so fre- really exist?” But National Security Adviser Hermogenes whose expense? quent, it’s like a sieve.” Somehow, I sensed something phony about the Esperon Jr. – a retired four-star general – de- Indeed, the military is virtually grounded, “It’s the same situation in Manila,” butts in fellow. “Yes, they exist,” I said, with some annoyance. fended his boss, saying: “China has not seized with no apparent contingency plan to defend someone who looks Pinoy, black hair, flat nose and all. “But not for long,” he quipped. That was a dead giveaway. “This guy is an assas- sandbars in Pag-Asa Atoll. There should be no Philippine territory. With no warships and an air “Duterte is a dummy of China.” “No, he’s a dummy of America,” his wife chimes sin, I told myself. force that consists of a few trainer fighter planes, alarm on that, as long as they don’t occupy any in. Quickly changing the subject, he admitted that of the sandbars. There are many Chinese as well the country is at the mercy of China. Duterte Husbands know better than to argue with their other SSB workers were assigned to urban centers like as Vietnamese fishing boats in and near Pag- admits it and China knows it. All Duterte can do wives. “I guess Duterte is a dummy of both,” he con- Manila. “The Philippines has many socio-economic Asa Island.” That’s very strange because of his was curse, “Putang ina! Na-leche na naman tayo cedes. problems and you can better learn about them at the military background and key role in the “national ng Tsina!” [Son of a whore! China screwed us Spies in Manila? That’s a subject that I think I coffee shops.” security” of the country, he should be the first to again!] know a lot about, having written the scripts of nearly “I guess, coffee shops are where the problems are come to the defense of the country’s sovereignty The same is true with the nationalist and all the Agent X-44 films of Tony Ferrer. discussed,” I ventured. and territorial integrity. Instead, he capitulated. leftist groups, who are akin to the “three mystic I explain that anyone who wants confidential “Or where the problems are created,” he coun- tered, knowingly. And to add insult to an injury, Foreign monkeys” – “see no evil, hear no evil, and speak information doesn’t need to spy. He just needs to sit down at the many kapihans in Manila where the politi- Another dead giveaway. This fellow is an agit- no evil.” An example of which was when a U.S. Secretary Cayetano defended China’s incursion – cians, the media and the businessmen congregate every prop specialist, I concluded. I decided to get the truth nay, invasion – of Sandy Cay. He reportedly said, Navy drone, believed to be used for reconnais- morning. “Everyone knows everything. Of course that’s out of him. “You can’t fool me. I can spot a spy when I “The presence of [Chinese] ships alone does not sance, was recovered in waters off in all off the record. That is, unless public officials start see one. I wrote a lot of Filipino James Bond movies. I mean anything. … There [are] reasons for certain central Philippines in January 2013. It didn’t attacking each other, like Senator Ping Lacson and think the SSB is a spy agency.” presence of certain vessels, but the situation in take too long for Filipino protesters to gather former Customs Commissioner Faeldon. Then they let I went on: “According to the Washington Post, the the area is very stable. There is no situation there near the U.S. Embassy in Manila to denounce it all hang out.”. SSB’s objective is to tear the social and economic fabric that is a cause of lowering mutual trust between the U.S. government for violating the country’s International spies like the Philippines, I point of a country. You put pressure on the government, hop- all of the claimants at this point in time.” Which sovereignty. out. Agents of the CIA, the KGB and the Chinese MSS ing you can make the government collapse and come to America’s terms, or make it collapse altogether and makes one wonder: where did he get his training In contrast, the Philippine government’s prefer to be posted in Manila. I met one CIA agent at a cocktail party once. He was operating covertly, of wind up with your own choice of people in power.” silence on the Chinese invasion of Sandy Cay or experience in foreign affairs and diplomacy? course. Folks like him would never admit they’re con- The guy vigorously denied this. “No, no, no, I From what is understood, his appointment as demonstrates its lack of resolve to protect Philip- nected with the Central Intelligence Agency, which is would never do that. If I did, the Philippines would be Foreign Secretary was his reward -- “consuelo de pine territory from foreign invasion. Duterte’s what CIA stands for. He told me that he was connected in turmoil and I would have to be assigned somewhere bobo’ – for his blind loyalty to Duterte when he reason for not confronting Chinese incursion into with a non-government organization called Commu- else, maybe even Washington DC.” ran and lost as Duterte’s vice presidential running Philippine territory is that he saw no reason for nity Improvement Authority. CIA for short. He said that as if it was his worst nightmare. “I mate in the 2016 elections. But rewarding him the Philippines to go to war with China over a “I like my community development work here,” he can’t stand the thought,” he groaned. “Just when we’re for his unquestioned loyalty is one thing; but disputed sandbar in the West Philippine Sea. volunteered. “My wife wouldn’t want me to be posted getting used to the lifestyle in Manila.” And he added: “My wife would divorce me!” putting him in charge of the country’s diplomatic TO PAGE A7 anywhere else.” He explained that being sent back to America ([email protected])

to the American economy. Only a few know however that there is another Following the deaths of workers at the hands of labor leader who likewise pioneered and co-founded As I See It United States Army and the United States Marshalls the United Farm Workers (UFW) alongside with during the Pullman Strike of 1894 in Chicago, the Chavez: FilAm Larry Itliong. He likewise deserves The Opinions expressed by our writers and Why celebrate Labor Day? United States Congress unanimously voted to approve recognition and a place in the classrooms for Califor- contributors do not in any way reflect the legislation to make Labor Day a national holiday and nians to know. Itliong and his co-farm workers staged President Glover Cleveland signed it into law six days opinion of the management of Fortune News ELPIDIO R. ESTIOKO the first farm labor strike in Delano before Cesar after the end of the strike. Chavez did and later worked side by side with Chavez Media Inc. For most people, La- Labor unions have raised the standard of living to advance the cause of farm laborers and alleviate Fortune News Media Inc. bor Day means two things: for millions of Americans in blue collar work, such as the plight of the workers in the fields Publisher a day off and the end of manufacturing, construction trades and machining. Due to the brave and pioneering efforts of the Harvey Barkin summer. Technically These are the jobs we think of when we think of union FilAm farm workers in California, farm labor move- Editor-in-Chief speaking, Labor Day is a workers who make such an economic effect on our ment found its importance and contributions in the day set aside to pay tribute state. Edwina Aniag American economy. Vice President for Marketing and Operations to working men and wom- But what about the farm labor unions’ contribu- Labor Day has generated side activities aside en. It has been celebrated tions… especially in California? In the long history of from recognizing and paying tribute to our working Gary De Guzman as a national holiday in the Labor in America these unions are relatively new, but men and women both in the blue collar labor group Vice President for Community Relations United States and Canada their impact on agricultural production is formidable. and farm labor. It became an important weekend to Anchet Manosca since 1894. Begun in the civil rights movements of the ‘60’s and take advantage of large numbers of potential custom- Creative and Production Manager Labor unions themselves celebrated the first ‘70’s the union of farmworkers was formed to bring ers with time to shop, especially during back-to- labor days in the United States, although there’s dignity, respect and improved wages and working Atty. Crispin Lozano school sales. some confusion as to who exactly came up with the Dr. Philip Chua / Rodel Rodis conditions to thousands who toiled in the fertile fields According to Vanity Fair Survey, “Americans are Ben Lou / Perry Diaz idea. Most historians credit Peter McGuire, general of our Golden State. How and where did this union definitely workaholics,” Cullen Murphy, editor-at- Federico Espiritu / Elpidio Estioko secretary of the Brotherhood of Carpenters and Join- form and who were the people who were the leaders large for Vanity Fair, said in an interview. “Maybe the Columnists ers and a co-founder of the American Federation of of the movement? The names of Caesar Chavez and overall message of this poll is that there is a kind of Labor, in coming up with the original idea of having a Dolores Huerta are always mentioned in the history Macon Ramos-Araneta bedrock faith in the idea that working hard pays off.” day for workers to show their solidarity. Others credit Corina Oliquino / Lara Climaco of the formation of the United Farm Workers’ Union, If possible, workers don’t want to use their vacation Daniel Llanto Matthew Maguire, later the secretary of Local 344 of but have you heard of Larry Itliong: The FilAm labor leaves but keep on working, instead, and accumu- Correspondents the International Association of Machinists in Pater- leader/organizer? Not many people have and so I lating more paid leaves. They work Saturdays and son, N.J., as the proponent of the Labor Day idea. want you to know that it was Larry Itliong and his Sundays and even overnight, just to add up to their Ann Gauna In the late 19th century, as the trade unions and 1,500 farm worker-members who paved the way basic pay. Marketing Associate labor movements grew, trade unionists proposed toward the birth of the United Farm Workers! Most Survey shows that most Americans, given the Jho Bule that a day be set aside to celebrate labor. Due to the history books mention Chavez and the United Farm choice when starting a new job, said they would prefer Photographer desire of the Central Labor Union to create a holiday Workers, but do not include a mention of Itliong or an extra $20,000 rather than four more weeks of va- for workers, the first Labor Day was held in 1882 and other Filipinos, who formed the bulk of the militant cation. Only 32 percent would opt for the extra time. Glenda Bule was originally intended to fill the streets with workers farm group that started demanding their human Sixty three percent of U.S. workers said they Event Coordinator parading to allow the public to appreciate the work of rights and fighting unfair farm labor practices starting would choose getting paid for leftover sick days, FilAm Star is published weekly the trade and labor organizations. A festival was held in the 1930s up to the 1970s. rather than having time off for them. by Fortune News Media Inc. after the parade to amuse and entertain local workers Teachers explore the exploits and pioneering As we celebrate Labor Day spending time shop- www.filamstar.com and their families. According to past records, one activities of Cesar Chavez in his leadership as a union ping, partying, bonding with relatives and friends, of the reasons for choosing to celebrate on the first organizer, civil rights advocate, and as a trailblazer in and enjoyment of fireworks and other entertain- Headquarters: Monday in September, and not on May 1, which is California’s farm labor movement. In fact, lawmak- ment activities, let’s not forget that the real essence 1028 Mission St., 2/F, common in the rest of the world linked with Interna- ers and local executives even came out with a Cesar of Labor Day is recognizing the contributions of the San Francisco, CA 94103; tional Workers Day, was to add a holiday in the long Chavez Day on May 31, and on that day, Californians laborers/workers to the American economy. Tel. (650) 278-0692 or (415) 593-5955 gap between Independence Day and Thanksgiving, celebrate him in recognition of his crusading efforts (For feedbacks, comments… please email the Email: [email protected] recognizing the contributions of the laborers/workers in the labor movement. author @ [email protected]). Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star A7 opinion

Dual Voice Murphy Park. On same day, Las Vegas will walk for a Arts Exposition. Nagsasaliksik na ako ng mga nata- cause at Rainbow Family Park. Part of the funds from tanging kalahok na maaring ilathala sa Pistahan Expo USA ANCOP Global Walk also gets allocated to hu- Magazine kung saan isa ako sa mga editor, katuwang Serving the Poor with Love manitarian relief programs and shelter projects where ang Editor-in-Chief na si Tony Villegas Jr. at Managing FEDERICO A. punch line. Many of them have shelled out even before homes are built on donated lands and awarded free to Editor Fidette Conception. Sadya kong hinagilap ang ESPIRITU $384 that graduated students in the elementary school unfortunate families who help erect their domicile nest Art Pavilion sapagkat nais kong siyasatin kung anu- and high school. But most need not forked out $32 using their own labor of love and sweat as only equity. man ang “Fil-AM Ube Dreams” na isinulat ni Natassja As the 21st Sunday monthly. They merely walked extra miles since 2011 Aside from $384 needed to sponsor a child’s basic Reintegrado at itinatanghal ni Edwin Lozada, Chair Mass in Ordinary Time where 497 scholars were initially funded out of 8.4 education, only $64 is needed monthly or $768 per Philippine American Writers and Artists. Kapansin- was fervently being million Philippine pesos raised in the first fundraising year to send a high school graduate to college, $3,000 pansin, ayon kay Lozada, ang sumigabong interes celebrated at the Holy now known as ANCOP Global Walk. The donations to build one house and $30, 000 erecting a village ng kanilang mga panauhin sa Ube Way na sabik na Spirit Church in Fremont, and revenue streaming gradually rose: 2012, 11.1 mil- of 10 houses. ANCOP USA particularly supports the nagpalitrato sa karatula, kasabay ang madamdaming simultaneously underway lion; 2013, 15.9 million; 2014, 14.5 million; 2015, 27.1 Our Lady of Banneux ANCOP Village in the sprawling pagkukuwento ng kanilang maubeng buhay. May iba in its adjacent function million and 2016, 37.3 million, all in Philippine pesos. hilltops of San Mateo, Rizal where informal settlers pang banyaga na isinulat pa ang kanilang pagkahal- hall was feverish meeting The worldwide fundraising walk supported scholars living in ghetto under the San Mateo Bridge were ing o karanasang hindi malilumutan sa paboritong of minds about serving the poor with love last August totaling 1,735 kids, broken down as: 2011, 497; 2012, relocated. In February 2016, volunteer doctors, nurses ube. Tunay na nakahahalinang pang-akit sa gitna ng 27. Common denominator among spirited discus- 819; 2013, 960; 2014, 910; 2015, 1,045; and 2016, and other medical practitioners undertook medical kariktan ng masining na tanghalin ang malinamnam sants and attendees was all have their roots back in 1735. Of this accomplishment, there is a growing trend mission at Our Lady of Banneux village while disaster na ube.... Longganisa, anyone? Yes Virginia, there the Philippines but now living in Northern California that individuals or groups supported one or several relief operations kick in when the need arises. You is Imus Longganisa if you know only Longganisang and active missionary workers of a Catholic minis- children with full donation or pledges. In the six-year can open the ancopusa.org website and choose from Lukban, Vigan, Cabanatuan, or Guinobatan. In try- Couples for Christ. Majority left their homeland period, 177 scholars have graduated from college , 48 among the children needing scholarship sponsors, this fact, it was fast selling at the Pistahan booth of Gene either witnessing or living in poverty that galloped for students from vocational and technical school, 152 time not only in the Philippines but also in Ecuador, Gutierrez of Big Ben’s Kitchen that exhibit stocks ran decades their Motherland till now. Philippine Statistics scholars are still pursuing college, 375 are attending Peru and Kenya if the donor so desires. The rest of the out in only few hours, necessitating frequent restock- Authority report released in June 30, 2017 indicated elementary and high school, and another 10 preferred world joins the ANCOP Global Walk as event roster ing during the Aug. 12-13 trade exhibition run. This that the country in general registered a poverty inci- finishing vocational and technical courses. From gets lengthy. One fired up leader-participant of the meaty native sausage is also big attraction at Wagay- dence of 21.6. %. In such economic condition, what is ANCOP Global Walk, another CFC auxiliary partner- meeting, Pidz Banasan, rose to the rostrum to speak way Festival right in Gutierrez’ hometown of Imus, saddening is families who remain poor lack the means ship program for education is funded, the so-called about his Catch 32 fundraising model. In their CFC as featured in Unang Hirit of GMA 7 and also at to feed themselves and worst struggle in sending their Cornerstone where seven schools are presently sup- household, each member contributed measly $5 every Footprints TV show. What makes it unique and tasty: children to school because they are forced to juggle ported. Essentially, Cornerstone helps slow readers in time which he described as “helping the poor softly.” it is wet longganisa that is why it is either bottled or their priorities in the face of meager family income. public elementary schools through reading tutorials In due time, their group raised cumulative funds, part packed. Interested? Watch out for it at next Pistahan With such gloom statistics, CFC, through its non-profit and values formation. Similarly, Cornerstone reaches of which was always enough to support a kid enrolled or get in touch with Gene Gutierrez thru her Facebook foundation Answering the Cry of the Poor (ANCOP) out to high school leaders through a Christian Leader- in the Child Scholarship Program, while one part was D’Famous Imus Longganisa....Mayroon nang Balut- USA, responds in multifaceted ways to help the im- ship and Values Formation Program. Family support devoted to support the shelter program and another eating Contest Hall of Famer ang Pistahan. Kampeon poverished in both the body and spirit. Last Sunday’s is provided through the Parenting Formation. ANCOP part supported pregnant women in the spiritual com- sa pampitong magkakasunod na taon si Romy Perez ng focus was helping poor children attend schooling. Global Walk are organized in 12 sectors of Metro Ma- munity’s pro-life program. San Francisco. Dinaig ni Romy ang kanyang mga ka- Main speaker Gerry Carriedo, ANCOP Team Leader in nila and 75 provincial partners in the Philippines. Carriedo, worker for the poor for over a decade laban sa unang round sa kanyang mabilisang pagkain Southwest-A region, has kindred guidance in helping In the USA, the 2017 ANCOP Global Walk now, encourages that we must love the poor with ng 3 balut, sa final round matapos isang-isang nguyain the poor: “Your act should be done with love.” In the happens in 33 cities mostly this 3rd Quarter. Many preferential love even as he issues precautions by cit- ang 5 balut at sa pinakapinal na sudden death round midst of his discussion, Carriedo pulled out from his of Carriedo’s brethren audience even donned their ing Pope Benedict’s teaching that “Being poor does not kung saan nalunok na niya ang 3 balut samantalang denim pocket a tiny black pouch he found amid an fundraiser’s shirt that proves they have walked their mean inferiority in any aspect of life.” Carriedo raises ang kanyang katunggali ay hirap nang ubusin ang expanse farm many years past . To the astonishment 3 miles in the Bay Area.. The walk is open to every an enigmatic question, “Who will take care of the kanyang pangalawang balut. Sa pamamagitan ng 11 of his audience, he started revealing its content one by one. In Newhall Park walk last August 12 in Concord poor?” when you are poor yourself. In my next column, balut na kanyang inubos nang iglapan, kampeon at one: yellowed dollar bills totaling $32. Carriedo left the City, many regular Sunday promenaders caught the watch out for the awesome story of a poor brethren Hall of Famer si Romy. Medyo kiniliti ko ang balut money intact inside the pouch like a found treasure as attention of the 150 ANCOP Global Walkers and their who serves the poor. champion nang aking kapanayamin. Ang dahilan gusto he expressed gratitude God has provided sufficiently exhibit booths that many like Guia Tan Decker of Con- Samutsari: Habang mataginting na nagtitilian kong isabak siya sa 3-time Balut Eating Champion for him and the family that there was never an instance cord appreciated the charity, engaged volunteers in ex- ang mga tagahanga ng simpatikong artistang FilAm ng New York na si Wayne Algenio at kung sino man in life that they wanted to spend the small find. At the ploratory talks and may someday send her Filipino kid na si Sam Milby at guwapitong binatilyo na si Inigo ang tatanghaling Balut Champion sa aking bayang precise point, asked his audience, “Do you know the to school herself. The San Mateo ANCOP Global Walk Pascual noong nakaraang Pistahan sa Yerba Buena Pateros, ang balut capital ng Pilipinas, sa susunod na present value of this $32?” And the speaker provided also happened at Ryder Park on August 19 and differ- Gardens, ako naman ay nag-iikot upang tuklasin kung 25th anniversary ng Pistahan sa 2018. Abangan kung the answer. “Your $32 a month or $384 a year can ent groups of walkers will converge this Sunday, Sep- ano ang kakaibang iniaalay ng 24th Pistahan Parade magaganap ang susunod na kabanata sa Balut Cham- send needy Filipino child go to school.” tember 9 at the Central Community Park in Mountain and Festival na inugit ng mga FilAM volunteers sa pion Challenge ng Pistahan. (You may correspond with Those present promptly appreciated Carriedo’s House. Milpitas fundraising occurs on September 16 at pangunguna ni Al Perez, Pangulo ng Filipino American Dual Voice thru [email protected]. )

ROBREDO SAYS credibility of the 2016 elections “because there is EX-CUSTOMS COMMISSIONER “pasalubong” or welcome gift when he assumed ... FROM PAGE A1 no conspiracy.” ... FROM PAGE A1 the post at the BoC. Guanzon said the poll body even ordered Meanwhile, Sen. Leila De Lima said, “These by losing candidate Marcos against Robredo. a probe against automated election technology “Faeldon should send us the evidence so we are as serious as Sen. Lacson’s accusations that “It has no effect,” said Macalintal, one of the provider Smartmatic during the 2016 election. can study them... if I can see the documents and Faeldon also belongs to the Customs officialdom legal counsels of Robredo. Guanzon also cautioned Comelec employees there’s an affidavit, then I can make a better deci- who are beneficiaries of the Tara system that has Marcos filed last year an electoral protest against joining rallies in support of Bautista. In a sion,” Gordon said. plagued the agency for decades. The revelations against Robredo, accusing her of massive elec- radio interview, Guanzon said government em- Gordon also said he would also consult all of Faeldon must be thoroughly investigated in the toral fraud. Marcos is seeking the manual recount ployees are prohibited from holding rallies during the senators except Lacson and the other sena- same way that Sen. Lacson’s allegations against and judicial revision of the votes in 36,465 pre- office hours. tors who were not involved. Faeldon should be the subject of an exhaustive cincts and the annulment of results in 2,756 other “If you will just wear red shirt to show your He also criticized Faeldon for the delayed probe.” precincts. support for the chairman, it is OK – but to rally disclosure of the alleged smuggling activity of De Lima said she joined the call of Senate Former Negros Oriental Rep. Jacinto Paras and shout inside the Comelec building, that is a Panfilo “Pampi” Lacson Jr. Minority Leader Franklin Drilon’ for Faeldon to and lawyer Ferdinand Topacio filed the complaint violation of civil service rules,” she added. “First, to be fair, Faeldon was here for several tell all. against Bautista. It was endorsed by Reps. Gwen Guanzon also advised Comelec directors days. Why did he not tell us at once? He should “Faeldon must also expose all other person- Garcia of Cebu, Abraham Tolentino of Cavite and against encouraging their subordinates to join have told us about it,” said Gordon. alities involved in smuggling or other Customs- of Kabayan. rallies in support of Bautista. “There are even Faeldon attended last week’s hearing of related anomalies, including senators, congress- Apart from alleged misdeclaration in his lawyers who shout as if in the market place. We Gordon’s committee on the PHP 6.4 billion men, and other public officials, specifically those statement of assets, liabilities and net worth, the are public officers and we should conduct our- shabu shipment from Xiamen, China, which was belonging to the so-called Davao Group that complainants also cited as ground for Bautista’s selves with dignity and behave,” she added. smuggled into the country through the BoC. facilitated the PHP 6.4-billion shabu shipment.” criminal liability the hacking of the Comelec web- Guanzon maintained that there is noth- If Lacson’s son was into smuggling, Gordon “It is about time that the investigation on site that led to the leakage of voters’ database as ing personal in the demand of the six Comelec said Faeldon should have filed charges. smuggling also includes the presidential son, found by the National Privacy Commission. commissioners for Bautista to immediately take According to Faeldon, he did not imme- Paolo Duterte,” said De Lima. They accused him of culpable violation of the a leave of absence or resign. She said Bautista diately reveal what he knew so as not to divert “Otherwise, his implications about Sen. Lac- Constitution and betrayal of public trust in the could no longer perform his duties because of the attention away from the probe on the shabu son’s knowledge of his son’s illegal activities will complaint, which was immediately endorsed by numerous issues he is facing. smuggling. just be a lame counter-attack that is as selective three representatives. House majority floor leader and Ilocos Norte “Smuggler? I’m absolutely sure I never called as it is spiteful.” At the Comelec, Commissioner Rowena Gua- Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas earlier raised the legal doc- Faeldon or any Customs official to intercede for “I call on the Senate to direct Faeldon to spill zon also called on Bautista’s critics not to connect trine of marital privilege that prohibits a spouse my son in any of his transactions with BoC,” the beans now that he has started to liberally the charges against the Comelec Chief to the from testifying against the other. Lacson said. accuse one of us. There should be no whitewash “Any assault on my integrity irritates me, in this investigation. There should be no sacred NICKLEODEON PULLS OUT set aside for accommodations and the remaining to say the least. And I won’t take it sitting down, cows. Let Jr. and Paolo Duterte ... FROM PAGE A1 30 hectares occupying the theme park. maybe not now but I will definitely take action face the music at the Senate. Anything less will In its August 24 statement, CWP asserted sooner or later,” he added. only prove that there is no justice and account- that it had been a mutual decision. that development is inevitable in Coron with the In a privilege speech, Lacson accused Fael- ability in this country when it comes to the sons “We are confirming that the Coral World presence of big businesses, which makes its proj- don as “on the take” at the BoC. He also accused and relatives of the high and mighty,” added De Park and Viacom / Nickelodeon has (sic) decided ect even more relevant. Faeldon of allegedly received PHP 100 million Lima. jointly to mutually cease the plans for the Nickel- “We will therefore continually support the odeon branded attraction and resort,” CWP said implementation of an environment friendly mas- MARAWI CITY BATTLE powered firearms as fighting entered its 98th day terplan with our fellow land owners in the main- in its statement. ... FROM PAGE A1 on August 28. “This is due mainly to the area not being land and will increase our funding to establish an No casualty from government troops has enhanced and consolidated marine reserve and ready in terms of infrastructure to host a world- said. been reported since August 27, although some reef conservation program in 16 islands under class, family themed development by 2020. We Capt. Jo-Ann Petinglay, spokesman of the 130 have been killed since the first day of hostili- our ownership,” it said. therefore wish each other the best and will move Western Mindanao Command, said the 10 slain ties. Among civilians, the death tool stood at 45 Thus, its next steps would be to help fellow on to other priorities with CWP prioritizing build- terrorists were trying to sneak in to reinforce while 1,728 were rescued. land owners in securing international standard ing its own brand and customer experience,” it their comrades but were intercepted by Army The military official also said about 1,270 im- green certifications and investments in renewable added. troops, an official said. They were on board two provised explosive devices (IEDs) and unexplod- energy, water resource and waste management CWP lambasted as reports that its motorized pump boats when they were spotted ed ordnances (UXO) were recovered in different facilities. project would be located on Coron Island. cruising toward Marawi City. structures in the main battle area. “We will continually work directly with key “We are converting a former mining site into Petinglay said the troops were fired upon as Last Sunday, she said troops recovered 32 stakeholders in Palawan to protect and maintain a tourism development, contrary to reports that they approached, and that started the firefight IEDs and UXOs rigged as traps by the Maute the environment in the beautiful town of Coron, we are building on pristine land which is untitled that lasted for about three hours. She said five group in the remaining battle area. Palawan as it experiences exponential population – these include the Coron Island, a Tagbanua of the terrorists were killed instantly, while the Lt. Gen. Carlito Galvez, head of the Western and tourism growth. It is time to take a preven- Tribe area which we never had any plans of other five were killed after they tried to escape. Mindanao Command, said, “The plan of the ter- tive approach in the protection of the area,” CWP touching. Coron Island should not be deemed as She said the latest encounter between rorists was earlier reported to us and that is why said. the site in Coron as the whole area outside this government forces and the Maute brought the it was easier for patrolling special forces riverine Asked via email for comments regarding the island is still called Coron and Palawan has 1,600 death toll of militants to 613. She said govern- units and maritime policemen to detect and neu- way forward for CWP, Susan Lee, director for cor- islands and not one island, contrary to specula- ment forces also recovered 665 assorted high- tralize the movement.” tive media reports,” the developer said in its porate development at CWP Undersea Resorts, statement. did not answer specific questions from FilAm Information on the CWP website indicates Star. She also described as inaccurate this writer’s PERRYSCOPE region. that its project site spans 15,000 square miles earlier story that indicated Palawan government ... FROM PAGE A6 In my article, “What price sovereignty?” from Coron to Puerto Princesa, with San Vicente officials were clueless about CWP plans. (January 20, 2014), I wrote: “Would the Phil- town in the middle of a 16-island cluster. “Your first news article is definitely not accu- “Why should I defend a sandbar and kill ippines disallow American military presence The masterplan entails eight international rate as we are dealing at all levels of government Filipinos because of a sandbar? China assured me needed to protect the sovereignty that we hold so family entertainment and luxury branded resorts and are in touch with the right people at the top,” that they would not build anything there,” Du- dearly? But without U.S. presence, our sover- and spas, with each zone showcasing an under- Lee said, while promising to answer more ques- terte said during a press briefing in Malacañang. eignty would be exposed to Chinese imperialistic water restaurant seating 100 guests. Patented tions upon returning from overseas travel. Well, it’s just a sandbar; however, China can build advances. It’s a dilemma that the Philippines has glass technology will be used to locate these The news article in reference was published a militarized artificial island like it did with seven to grapple with. Simply put, the Philippines can- underwater restaurants 20 feet below sea level, to in January this year, when the backlash broke reefs and shoals a few years ago. not have it both ways. Sometimes you got to give provide a unique undersea view. These facilities out. Its claim was based on local news reports But didn’t he realize that Philippine-U.S. a little to gain strategic advantage.” can be converted into meeting rooms, lounges quoting the Palawan provincial government, the MDT covers attack on Philippine warships wher- Isn’t it time that we assert sovereignty over or bedrooms. Main accommodations would be incumbent Coron mayor at the time and the Pala- ever they may be, including international waters? what is rightfully ours? ([email protected]) on land, with a choice of one- to four-bedroom wan Council for Sustainable Development. The It is for this reason that China couldn’t attack or beachfront villas built to hurricane-resistant Provincial Environment and Natural Resources expel the BRP Sierra Madre – an old dilapidated architectural standards and fitted with renewable Office in Palawan had also confirmed that nobody World War II-vintage U.S. LST vessel, which was visit our website energy facilities. had approached or coordinated with the agency deliberately grounded at the Ayungin Shoal in Nickelodeon would have occupied a 100- about the CWP project at the time. the Spratlys to serve as the Philippine Marines’ www.filamstar.com hectare zone, where 70 hectares would have been outpost to assert Philippine sovereignty over the A8 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 business & New Google Pixel phones to be launched tech news on October 5, says tipster Consistent tech tipster Evan Blass revealed in a tweet that Itama po natin! Google may be announcing their new Pixel 2 smartphones by BEN LOU first time for everything and maybe this event October 5. in his life will wake him up and become more He also added that these new Q: Can a mature. There are only two directions this devices may be powered by the spouse’s financial can go. He can pick up from this and take Snapdragon 836 mobile proces- immaturity lead to care of his finances or he can bury himself in sors. divorce? debt. Only time will tell. It looks like there’s some A: I recently Ang ating Lesson, Lahat ng bagay ay may coincidence at play as well since Google announced the first bumped into an old hangganan. Kahit pagmamahalan! generation of Pixel devices on acquaintance at the At Debt Aid Consulting, we pride our- October 4, 2016. gym that I normally selves with providing only Federal Trade go to. I was surprised At the beginning of August, Commission compliant programs. Our Blass also shared a photo of what that this girl had a glow on her face when programs are here to help you get out of debt may be the the next generation of (Photo: www.slashgear.com) she looked and smiled at me. I walked up sooner than later and we do not send your Pixel phones. to her and asked if she was preparing to do information outside of the country. Compared to the recently a bodybuilding show to which she said no. I If you need help in getting out of payday announced Samsung Galaxy Note lack the large display which the it comes to launching their Pixel had to complement her that she is looking loans, or any other unsecured debts, call Debt 8 and the anticipated iPhone 8, Note 8 has, and is expected of the line of smartphones, October pretty good since I could swear she was really Aid Consulting. We have free Credit Repair these new Pixel 2 devices appear iPhone 8. 5 makes sense for a Pixel 2 an- preparing for one. while and after your program. We do not use to be more standard-looking. Nonetheless, if Google is nouncement. (Alfred Bayle / I slowly broke the ice by stating that I call centers which keeps your information The photo suggests that the units planning to start a tradition when inquirer.net) remembered that the last time I spoke to her safe. We have a new program that reconstruct was she got married and wanted to have a debts for half of what you would pay our com- baby. So was this still her plan? She smil- petitors. We also provide legal assistance that Rain, Marawi fighting, weak peso dampen ingly said no because we are getting a divorce. keeps collectors away. We take Federal Credit I was surprised because those two were Unions, Military Debts, Payday loans and inseparable when they go to the gym. Not high interest personal loans in our program business expansion — BSP that that really meant they were not having too. This is exclusively available for Debt Aid mining and quarrying recorded marital problems but it showed they were Consulting clients. None of our competitors stronger expansion plans while happy together. provide this program. You are well protected. those of manufacturing, and I did not ask anymore but she proceeded We only provide Federal Trade Commis- electricity, gas, and water were to tell me that she ended paying for his bills sion compliant programs. Debt relief compa- slightly lower from a quarter ago,” the BSP said, and that she was like a maid in her own home nies who charge non refundable upfront fees In terms of employment, because the husband just refused to do any- are in violation of the ban. Go with Debt Aid the BSP said businesses’ outlook thing especially if it had anything to do with Consulting! for the fourth quarter “improved money. This doesn’t mean that the guy was Do not fall for marketing gimmicks say- loaded but he truly was immature with financ- due largely to the more positive ing that they have the right program for you. sentiment of the services and es like paying bills on time and so on. For two Most marketing companies only have one wholesale and retail sectors off- and a half years she tried to put up with this program and will enroll you in that program setting the less optimistic outlook but just like an empty glass of under a slowly whether it fits you or not. So beware! of the industry and construction leaking faucet, one day the glass will fill and Ben Lou at your service! I have over sectors.” overflow and that is where she stood. It was 30 years of real financial experience. If you The third-quarter BES time to hung the gloves and call it quits. would like sound financial advice, call us showed higher optimism for the The good thing about this is that they at Debt Aid Consulting. We do not use call (Photo: www.ateneo.edu) October to December period, as never had the child. Unfortunately during centers like Financial Rescue. No one has the next quarter CI jumped to divorces, the children are the ones left to suf- the right to put your information at risk. Say Amid a less buoyant business pectations survey (BES) showed 51.3 percent from 42.7 percent in fer. I told her that sometimes we are too close no to LLC corporations in Canada! Debt Aid sentiment in the third quarter, that the overall confidence index the previous quarter. to the picture that we cannot really see there Consulting is the first and only Filipino debt fewer firms in the industry sector (CI) declined to 37.9 percent dur- Historically, businesses ex- is something wrong until we back up and see restructuring company incorporated in the US expanded operations, the Bangko ing the July to September period, pect more rosy prospects during the whole picture. There is always a point of and Canada. Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) said. the lowest level in three years, the Christmas holiday season. realization and it was her time. Now serving the Caribbean Islands! “The percentage of busi- mainly due to dampened demand As such, “more firms will I can only imagine how bad it will be Tawag na po sa 1-888-341-5234 at tutu- nesses with expansion plans in during the rainy season, the ongo- continue to hire new employees for the husband since he has no financial lungan po namin kayo. the industry sector for the third ing fighting between government than those that indicated other- knowledge to move on but there is always a Itama po natin ang mali! quarter of 2017 decreased slightly forces and ISIS supporters in wise” during the fourth quarter, to 32.8 percent from 34.6 percent Marawi City as well as the weaker the BSP said. (Ben O. De Vera / in the previous quarter,” the BSP peso. inquirer.net) said in a report. In the third quarter, “agri- The BSP’s latest business ex- culture, fishery and forestry, and Faeldon, Dominguez sign order fast-tracking cargo through ports

Traders that fully comply system that enables highly com- issuance of one-time exemption with all customs rules will be pliant stakeholders to clear their certificate, the BOC said. allowed to fast-track shipments goods with minimum customs But under CAO 5-2017, “any at the country’s ports under the border intervention; and mutual false or misleading information in Authorized Economic Operator recognition arrangement (MRA), the documents submitted as well (AEO) program. which sets process to implement as the commission of customs Finance Secretary Carlos and maintain mutual recognition laws violation shall be grounds G. Dominguez III and former between two or more customs for denial of the application,” the Customs Commissioner Nicanor administrations,” the BOC said. BOC said. E. Faeldon on July 17 signed Cus- Applicants to become AEO Eligible to apply for AEO toms Administrative Order (CAO) “must meet the standard of reli- accreditation include airlines, No. 5-2017, which forms part of ability and trustworthiness, which customs brokers, customs bonded the implementing rules and regu- shall be measured by its level of warehouses, customs facility lations of Republic Act No. 10863 risk, the nature of the business warehouses, exporters, import- or the Customs Modernization and the conduct of its importa- ers, local and international freight and Tariff Act (CMTA). tion as against customs revenue, forwarders with offices in the In a statement Saturday, the compliance, and cargo security,” Philippines, shipping lines, local Bureau of Customs explained that the BOC said. transport operators, authorized the AEO program “gives incen- Among the perks of become Agent Banks, local transport tives to stakeholders with high an AEO include the following: ad- operators, as well as foreign sup- level of compliance with customs vance cargo clearance; exemption pliers, manufacturers and other rules and regulations.” from renewal of accreditation, firms in the global logistics and “The program has three processing and selectivity lane for supply chain accredited as an components namely: cargo AEO shipment with no documen- AEO by a foreign country with security system, which will ensure tary, physical and non-intrusive which the Philippines has an the integrity and security of the examination; expedited customs existing MRA, the BOC said. (Ben imported good; trade clearance clearance for exports; as well as O. De Vera / inquirer.net) Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star A9 world news U.S., Honduran agents hunt down Smugglers’ tunnel uncovered on U.S.-Mexico border Military authorities have fugitive wanted on drug charges uncovered a tunnel under the Arnulfo Fagoth Maximo, Mexico-US border that was used nicknamed “El Tio”, or the Uncle, to smuggle migrants from the city was arrested near the Nicaraguan of Tijuana to San Diego, Califor- border by a team including US nia, the Mexican government said Drug Enforcement Administration Sunday. officers, the Honduran police said The entrance on the Mexican in a statement. It did not say when side was inside a warehouse and exactly his capture occurred. the exit was just beyond the bor- The 38-year-old Honduran der fence in San Diego, officials was wanted under a warrant issued said. in September in response to a Twenty-five migrants were US extradition request for alleg- picked up by the US Border edly conspiring to have cocaine Patrol as they emerged from the smuggled into the United States. passageway, a Mexican state His capture followed the ar- rest on August 21 of Sergio Neptali police official told AFP, speaking Mejia, a 40-year-old also wanted on on condition of anonymity. (Photo: www.reuters.com) Arnulfo Fagoth Maximo, nicknamed “El Tio” The Mexican defense min- (Photo: www.latribuna.hn) drug trafficking charges and facing an extradition order. istry said in a statement that the drugs and migrants into the United States. US and Honduran anti-narcotics agents chased More than a dozen Hondurans tunnel was detected after a tipster called in to In August 2016, they uncovered a 30-meter and caught a suspected drug trafficker in the wilder- have been extradited to the United States since 2010 report the presence of armed men at the ware- (100-foot) tunnel running from the Mexican state ness of Honduras’ Mosquito Coast, officials said as part of a cooperation deal to fight drug-traffick- house. of Sonora into Arizona. Tuesday. ing. (AFP) Nobody was arrested on the Mexican side of In April, US authorities discovered the lon- the border, the police official said. gest border tunnel yet -- an 800-meter passage- In recent years, Mexican authorities have way connecting Tijuana to Otay Mesa, California. Tillerson slams N.Korea missile detected several border tunnels used to funnel (AFP) test but still seeks talks US Secretary of State Rex Til- Poll reveals Americans’ opinions on who lerson declared Sunday that North Korea’s latest missile test was a is to blame for Charlottesville “provocative act” but said he still A new poll released Thurs- ter-protesters, the poll found. hopes to persuade Pyongyang to day, Aug. 17 reveals how many The online poll surveyed come to the negotiating table. Americans agree with President 2,181 American respondents and Earlier this month, Wash- Donald Trump as to what caused revealed that: ington’s top diplomat suggested a the violent riots in Charlottesville, For Republican voters, 64 diplomatic opening might be close Virginia. percent believed that both groups after North Korea reacted to a new Trump has previously were guilty while 18 percent think round of United Nations sanctions mentioned that “both sides” were that the white nationalist protest- with what he termed “some level of to blame for the violence that ers were most guilty. In addition, restraint.” occurred at a rally in Charlot- 17 percent think that counterpro- And on Tuesday US President tesville protesting the removal of testers were most responsible. Donald Trump seized upon the lack a Confederate statue of General Among independents, a total Robert E. Lee. At the height of of 46 percent believes that both of immediate North Korean missile (L-R) US State Sec. Rex Tillerson and NK President Kim Jong-Un tests as evidence that the country’s (Photo: www.youtube.com) the violence, a white supremacist groups were most responsible leader Kim Jong-Un “is starting to rammed his car into a crowd for the violence, with 51 percent respect us.” Asked whether he and Trump had been too of people, killing a 32-year-old believing that white national- President Donald Trump But on Saturday, true to recent form, North quick to imagine that Kim might be ready to show woman, Heather Hayer. ists were the primary cause of (Photo: www.wikipedia.com) Korea test-fired three short-range ballistic missiles, restraint, Tillerson said: “I don’t know that we are A SurveyMonkey poll violence. with Kim apparently thumbing his nose at calls for wrong ... I think it’s going to take some time to tell.” conducted Thursday found that For Democrats, 66 percent and you had a group on the other him to send Washington a signal that he is serious “Clearly they are still messaging us as well that 40 percent of American adults be- believe that far-right groups side that was also very violent.” about nuclear disarmament. they are not prepared to completely back away from lieve that both groups of protest- were most responsible, while 24 Trump took to Twitter last “The firing of any ballistic missile is a violation their position,” he said. ers were the most responsible for percent said both groups were week after he made updated of UN Security Council resolutions,” Tillerson told “Having said that, we are going to continue our the violence in Charlottesville. responsible. Only 6 percent said remarks over the incident. Fox News Sunday. “We do view it as a provocative peaceful pressure campaign as I have described it,” Nine percent blame the counter-protesters caused most of “Made additional remarks on act, a provocative act against the United States and Tillerson said, “working with allies, working with counter-protesters as the ones the violence. Charlottesville and realize once our allies.” China as well, to see if we can bring the regime in who are most responsible for the The poll also presented re- again that the #Fake News Media But he added, “We continue to want the Kim Pyongyang to the negotiating table, begin a dialogue violence in Charlottesville. spondents with a quote from the will never be satisfied…truly bad regime to understand (there) is a different path that on a different future for the Korean peninsula and Another 46 percent blamed President that stated: “You had a people!” he tweeted. (Source: The he can choose.” for North Korea.” (AFP) “far-right groups” over the coun- group on one side that was bad, Epoch Times) A10 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star B1 dining in the city Four Seasons fare. Your choice of two soup bases, different meat, fowl and fish, assorted vegetables and mushrooms, plus appetiz- A hot pot spot for all seasons ers for under $30 per head is reasonable even if you have Story by Harvey I. Barkin | Photos by Gary De Guzman 90 minutes to enjoy it. Four Seasons Exquisite around the table sizzle. A hot is not. Of course, hot soup Hot Pot also has excellent treat that you can only share in cold Daly City is always accommodations. In many hot with family and close friends. welcome. But this is one hot pots, the stove takes an extra The recipe is traditional pot spot where there’s a chef seat at the table and eats up and you really don’t have to who can do more than just space. For safety, you can’t hire a chef if you open a hot boil soup. have tables too close together. pot restaurant. Their best-sellers are the Four Seasons can take in up to But at Four Seasons Ex- curry-coconut and Northern less than 200 diners at a time. quisite Hot Pot at St. Francis China or Szechuan (with 10 to But at Four Seasons they Square, General Manager Ted 15 herbs) soup bases. Al- have six – count them – six Hui said they do hire an expe- though they serve about nine rooms for individual parties. rienced chef. “In some hot pot different soup bases. Pesto-, Their smallest private party restaurants, they usually buy tomato- and miso-based room can hold 10; their larg- powdered soup base from a soups are also available for est, up to 48. A minimum of vendor, then dilute the broth. those who prefer their hot pot $300 keeps your party going Here, we make ours from not peppery hot. the whole night in the small scratch.” Hui said their chef Their ingredients need room. And yes, there are Four Seasons General Manager Ted Hui learned his craft in mainland to be fresh. Their beef, for drinks other than soda to keep China before he amassed ex- instance is special order and the spirits up. DALY CITY – When the perience in different Chinese usually cost double than the And this is state-of-the- unknown Mongol first used restaurants in the U.S. usual per pound. They also art hot pot because there his helmet to simmer broth Just in case you think have tendons and pork blood are Karaoke systems in the and drop pieces of meat and Four Seasons is seasonal, it for those who crave exotic private party rooms. Their vegetables into the concoc- directory of songs is extensive. tion, he didn’t realize that If it’s not in the system, they people all over the world can get it from the cloud. would still be doing it a thou- With fire in the belly sand years later. and passion in the heart, But now they use hot you might discover that the pots. American idle you took for Well into the age of social granted is the next idol. This media, hot pot is still trend- might also be one time when ing as a communal network. abundant food lulls you to If you spent a day of chatting, consider some friends or rela- posting, blasting, exchanging tives have, er, golden throats. 8:30 p.m.; in the summer, that owns several Four Sea- photos, try good old fashion Small wonder, the book- 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Busiest sons restaurants in Manila. face-to-face conversation ing is tight. You might wait days are Fridays and Satur- Four Seasons Exquisite Hot with family and friends over weeks just to get your party days. But Hui said Daly City Spot opened towards the end hot pot. As it simmers, you’ll in. But the parking space is isn’t as predictable as the cold of January this year and is also relish the pot boilers that ample so when you do get weather – there are week days now only hitting its stride. your assembled party has to booked, friends and family that start slow and then sud- Hui said they’re finding that offer. Soup’s hot and the tales members from all over don’t denly becomes a full house. most of their return cus- have to drive around before Truly, a hot pot spot for all tomers tend to be Chinese sitting down to your party. seasons. and Filipino with extended Their peak hours in the The restaurant is not a families. winter is from 5:30 p.m. to franchise of the Viking group B2 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017

Owner of East Bay Cafe Depot in Fremont, Wendell Velilla & Tim Velilla 65th Birthday Celebration of Cris Enriquez (middle) from American Canyon shown here with his family

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS OAKLAND DIOCESE CHAPTER INSTALLATION OF OFFICERS 2017-2018- (Stand- ing L-R) Lorenzo Salcedo (Marshal); Robert Burnside, PCP (Advocate); David Schwartz (Treasurer) ; Art Londos (Vice-President); Rev Fr. Antony Vazhappilly (Chaplain); Manuel Diaz (President).

Happy birthday to Natividad Pagaduan (left) and Oren Gabriel (right) of Happy 70th birthday to Ely Valle Vallejo

Alex & Emma Sausa celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with family

Dr. Michael V. Rosario, PHD, Doctor of Philosophy, graduated at Duke University, BIomechanics, Master of Sci- Home Instead company picnic ence at University of Massachusetts, Amhurst. Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star B3 community San Jose residents share vision for proposed Google Mega-Campus at town hall launch awareness SAN JOSE – Nearly 300 ing around our community,” neighbors joined to say the jobs, and education opportuni- San Francisco Supervisor Jane Kim residents gathered for the first said María Guerrero, a barista community needs a seat at the ties for our communities.” in a series of community-led for Eurest at Intel. “We would table to ensure its needs are The town hall consisted of launches the Jobs of the Future Fund town halls on the potential like a voice at the Google addressed within the project as a “learn-in”, breakout sessions Statewide initiative to prepare California for the automation revolution impacts across the City, as well negotiations because of the San Jose negotiates the sale of in English, Spanish and Viet- SAN FRANCISCO – Su- as the opportunities, of Google’s many changes that will impact some its most valuable public namese, and a larger discussion pervisor Jane Kim recently an- proposed San Jose Mega- our community. We have many lands to Google. on the community’s overall nounced she is launching Jobs Campus. Residents shared their concerns and only by voicing “Some of our members vision for the project. The of the Future Fund – a state- vision for addressing issues of these and working together can have gone hungry because residents were joined by Vice- wide effort focused on building affordable housing, access to we change our community for they couldn’t cover rent, pay mayor Magdalena Carrasco. support for a common-sense quality jobs and education and the better.” for school, and support their The community vision for the proposal to fund re-training and other community needs within The City of San Jose has families,” said Katherine Nasol, project that develops through education for displaced workers the project. begun negotiations with Google a member of Filipino youth and the series of town halls will be and help create new meaningful “I have lived in the east and, despite vocal concerns student organization Anak- shared with the Mayor, City jobs. side of San Jose my whole from the community, has yet to bayan Silicon Valley. “We want Council and Google representa- Independent experts life and I have seen the many offer residents across the City Google to not just provide free tives. reported that as many as 47 changes that have happened the opportunity to share their food for its employees, but sup- percent of U.S. jobs may be due to the tech industry grow- vision for the project. Recently, port affordable housing, quality Supervisor Jane Kim lost to automation in the next (Photo: www.sfgate.com) 20 years. The United States has already lost millions of organizations and everyday PG&E to match employee donations for Hurricane manufacturing jobs to automa- residents can come together tion – now industries impacted to craft an initiative that will Harvey Relief; Customers urged to be prepared for will be as varied as transporta- provide the revenue needed to tion, retail, administrative and help workers displaced by au- natural disasters even health care. A number of tomation. California can be on SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.— emergencies, and the energy appliance shutoff valves are. In experts and industry leaders – the front lines of building new With the devastation caused company practices and evalu- some cases, turning off the gas including Microsoft co-founder economic opportunities, creat- by Hurricane Harvey for the ates its emergency response at the appliance shutoff valve Bill Gates – have suggested that ing high-wage jobs and provid- people of Texas and Louisiana, with local first responders will suffice. a “robot tax” could help provide ing workers with the skills and Pacific Gas and Electric Com- every year. California residents . Know where the main the revenue that will be needed education they need to succeed pany (PG&E) and its employees should also develop, update electric switch is and how to to re-train workers displaced by in our new economy. in California want to help. and practice their personal turn off your electric supply. this economic transition. “This nation and the Bay Starting today, PG&E em- preparedness plans as well, and Know What to Do After an “The automation revolu- Area in particular are blessed ployees will be able to donate to National Preparedness Month Emergency: tion isn’t science fiction – we’re with the most powerful research the American Red Cross for its is the perfect time to get started . Check for injuries and already seeing the effects to- and development capabili- Hurricane Harvey relief efforts. with the following tips: ensure that everyone is safe. day,” said Kim. “It is critical we ties the world has ever seen,” In addition, the company will Get Ready for Natural . Check for damage. If come together now to develop said Kim. “It’s only fair that match those donations up to Disasters Before They Hap- you smell or hear gas escaping restored. Leave a single lamp a common-sense solution to those who reap the rewards $50,000, providing as much as pen: inside your home or business, on to alert you when power help smooth this transition and of technological development, $100,000 or more in aid. . Prepare an emergency get everyone outside and shut returns. Turn your appliances prepare our workers for what heavily subsidized by genera- “We send our thoughts plan and conduct an emergency off the gas immediately! back on one at a time when comes next.” tions of taxpayers, contribute and prayers to the victims of drill with your family. . Do not use electrical conditions return to normal. Jane Kim has been leading their share to addressing some this disaster, and we hope our . Prepare an evacuation switches, appliances or phones . During a power outage, the conversation to address of the downsides of technologi- contribution helps in some way plan for your home. Each room because sparks can ignite gas. use battery-operated flashlights the job displacement caused by cal progress. I’m launching this toward rebuilding lives. PG&E should have at least two ways Do not check for a gas leak with instead of candles due to the automation, including a pro- initiative today because if we is committed to being there to escape in case one is blocked. a match or an open flame. risk of fire. If you must use posal to require employers that don’t get ready now, we won’t in times of natural disasters, Establish a place where your . Once outside, use your candles, keep them away from lay off employees as a result of catch up later.” whether it’s earthquakes, wild- family can reunite. phone from a safe location up- drapes, lamp shades and small automation to contribute their Kim’s committee is a fires or floods here at home, or . Establish an alternative wind where you can no longer children and never leave them fair share toward re-training California Ballot Measure effort for the residents of Texas and way to contact others who are smell gas to call 911 and PG&E unattended. displaced workers and growing designed to create broad public Louisiana in their own time of not home, such as an out-of- at 1-800-743-5000. . Treat all downed power the economy for everyone, not awareness and understand- need,” said Geisha Williams, the-area telephone contact. . Shut off the gas at the lines as if they are energized just a few. ing of the massive challenge of CEO and President of PG&E . Prepare and maintain an main gas service valve normally and extremely dangerous. Keep The Jobs of the Future automation. Corporation. emergency preparedness kit located near your gas meter by yourself and others away from Fund is the next step in this To learn more about the Hurricane Harvey made with enough supplies on hand using a 12- to 15-inch adjustable them. Call 911, and then notify conversation. It will create a Jobs of the Future Fund, please landfall just as the focus of Sep- to be self-sufficient for at least wrench or other suitable tool to PG&E at 1-800-743-5000. forum where labor leaders, visit www.jobsofthefuturefund. tember as National Prepared- three days, and preferably up to give the valve a quarter turn. businesses, non-profit and civic com. ness Month was beginning. The one week. . Once you shut off the painful power of Harvey is yet . Know where your gas gas, DO NOT turn it back on. another reminder that having a service shutoff valve is, and how Contact PG&E or another quali- family emergency plan, having to shut off your gas supply. The fied professional to perform a emergency kits in cars, homes main shutoff valve is normally safety inspection before the gas and offices and having pre- near your gas meter and will re- service is restored and the gas arranged, out-of-area points of quire the use of a 12- to 15-inch appliance pilots are re-lit. contact for communications are adjustable pipe or crescent-type . If the power goes out, essential to surviving and recov- wrench or other suitable tool. turn off all electric appliances ering quickly from a disaster. . Know which of your ap- to avoid overloading circuits PG&E has a plan for pliances use gas and where the and fire hazards when power is NAFFAA salutes relief efforts during Harvey Washington, D.C. - The Mayor Sylvester Turner, the City National Federation of Filipino of Houston, and local authori- American Associations (NaF- ties for their robust and timely Brendan Flores adds, “Times like FAA) extends its prayers and response to the disaster. Their these require us to rise above the positive thoughts to those suffer- commitment to action has divisions of race, class, creed, ing as a result of Hurricane Har- undoubtedly saved many lives and political affiliation. When vey, and salutes the relief efforts already. Together, we are all your brother, your neighbor, or of state and local agencies. Houston Strong.” your friend is suffering, you un- Anthony Guevara, NaFFAA National Co-Director of questionably extend your hand to Southern Region Chair from Partnerships for NaFFAA, help. I am inspired by the people Houston, has already begun to Christy Panis Poisot, adds, of Houston for their willingness assist in local relief efforts, and “While many are experiencing to do just that. I would espe-

Sister Regina Panis and Jacqueline Poisot putting together comfort kits for donation (Photo courtesy of Christy Panis Poisot) believes the spirit of community loss and tragedy at this time, I cially like to thank our Southern will carry the people of Houston have never been more proud to Region leaders, Christy Panis through these challenging times. be a Houstonian. It is comforting Poisot and Region Chair Anthony He says, “In Houston, the spirit to know that in times that truly Guevara for their leadership in of unity and collective action— matter, people come together helping coordinate efforts on the bayanihan—can be seen in the and support each other. I am ground.” selfless efforts of state and local confident we will weather this For those who would like officials, law enforcement, and storm and the aftermath of heal- to help, and for those already citizens as they begin to rebuild ing, thereafter. I hope that this on the ground, Mr. Guevara will after the natural disaster of same spirit inspires others and continue to provide information Hurricane Harvey. NaFFAA’s continues, in some way, within on further relief efforts as they Southern Region would like to all communities watching us.” become available. extend its deepest gratitude to NaFFAA National Chairman B4 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 legal & law Sarah Palin in legal setback against New York Times Know your rights in case of ICE raids A US federal judge dealt a legal blow Tuesday to failed 2008 Republican vice presidential candi- ATTY. CRISPIN CADAY LOZANO date Sarah Palin, who sued The New York Times for defamation. Question: I the U.S. to consular process. “Nowhere is political journalism so free, am the beneficiary Question: I am in removal proceedings and so robust or perhaps so rowdy as in the United of a petition by my I was charged with misrepresentation of mate- States,” US District Judge Jed Rakoff ruled in same sex partner rial fact. I do not have a parent or son or daugh- New York. in California which ter who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent “In the exercise of that freedom, mistakes recognizes legality of resident. Will I qualify for waiver if my same sex will be made, some of which will be hurtful to same sex marriage. partner who is a U.S. citizen will marry me? others.” How many years do Answer: Yes. If your same sex partner will A recent Times editorial published after the I have to wait to file marry you, then you will be considered spouse June 14 attack on Republican lawmakers who for my naturaliza- of U. S. citizen. Whenever the immigration laws were practicing for a baseball game linked the at- tion? condition eligibility for a waiver on the existence tack and an earlier 2011 one on Arizona lawmaker Answer: Mar- of a “marriage” or status as a “spouse,” same-sex Gabrielle Giffords. riage to a U.S. citizen shouldn’t impact your abil- marriages will be treated exactly the same as An ad run by Palin supporters had put Gif- ity to naturalize, and in some cases, it may allow opposite-sex marriages. ford’s congressional district in the crosshairs of a you to acquire U.S. citizenship sooner than you Note: This is not a legal advice. firearm. would have otherwise been eligible. The general SUCCESS STORIES The Times corrected the editorial. It said rule is that non-citizens can apply for naturaliza- 1. On August 18, 2017, we received two ap- there was nothing that could demonstrate that tion after living in the U.S. for five years as a legal provals for N-400 applications. the Palin-linked group that injured Giffords and permanent resident. However, someone who is 2. On August 16, 2017, we received an ap- killed six other people had been driven to act by married to a U.S. citizen can apply for naturaliza- proval of I-601A provisional waiver for a Mexican the controversial ad. tion after three years, regardless of whether the client. Palin, a former governor of Alaska, said she Sarah Palin non-citizen spouse obtained a green card through 3. On August 14, 2017, we received two ap- would sue the paper regardless for malice. (Photo: www.wikipedia.com) a marriage-based petition or through a different provals of I-751 petition to remove condition on But the judge said Palin had failed to dem- avenue. If a permanent resident marries their residence. onstrate that the paper had acted intentionally to harm her reputation. (AFP) U.S. citizen partner, he or she should be eligible 4. On August 11, 2017, we received two ap- to apply for naturalization three years from the provals of I-485 adjustment of status. date of that marriage or five years from the date 5. On August 10, 2017, we received a grant Protecting the integrity of the immigration system: he or she became a permanent resident, which- from the Immigration Court on a Motion to Ter- ever is sooner. minate Removal Proceedings for a client whose Question: I am a U.S. citizen and I wanted to criminal case we have dismissed in criminal USCIS will increase number of applicant interviews petition my same sex partner in California. What court. Agency develops strategy to further detect and deter fraud is the procedure? 6. On July 18, 2017, we received an approval Answer: For families where both partners are of green card at the U.S. Embassy Manila for the WASHINGTON –U.S. Citizenship and partners to develop a uniform baseline for screen- in the United States, the U.S. citizen can submit a family of a client who was granted a waiver of Immigration Services has begun a multiphase ing and vetting standards and procedures. Part marriage based spousal petition and the foreign misrepresentation. His wife and children were approach to expand interviews across benefit of our USCIS strategy to support this uniform partner can apply for a green card through a approved after the court granted the waiver. types, focusing on benefits that, if granted, allow baseline is the incremental expansion of inter- procedure known as “adjustment of status.” So 7. On June 28, 2017, we received a withdraw- an individual to permanently reside in the United views for those benefit types which would provide long as the foreign partner did not enter the U.S. al of inadmissibility and removability charges States. Conducting these in-person interviews permanent residence in the United States,” said without inspection (EWI) (i.e. crossing the bor- from the Customs and Border Enforcement for a will further strengthen the agency’s fraud detec- Acting USCIS Director James W. McCament. der), this option should be available regardless client who was charged with drug case while he tion and national security initiatives. Conducting interviews will provide USCIS of whether or not the foreign spouse is in lawful was entering San Francisco Airport from the Phil- This change complies with Executive Order officers with the opportunity to verify the infor- status or has fallen out of lawful status. ippines. The case was withdrawn after we have 13780, “Protecting the Nation From Foreign Ter- mation provided in the application directly with For families who are married and the foreign expunged the drug case in Criminal Court. rorist Entry Into the United States,” and is part the individual(s), discover new information that spouse is located outside the United States, the 8. On May 25, 2017, we received an approval of the agency’s comprehensive strategy to further may be relevant to the adjudication, and deter- U.S. partner can submit a spousal petition and of Form I-140 for a caregiver from the Philip- improve the detection and prevention of fraud mine the credibility of the individual(s) seeking the foreign spouse can apply for an immigrant pines. and further enhance the integrity of the immigra- permanent residence in the United States. USCIS visa through the U.S. consulate, in a procedure 9. On April 21, 2017, we received an approval tion system. will meet the additional interview requirement known as “consular processing.” For families of I-601A Provisional Waiver for a client who was Effective Oct. 1, USCIS will begin to phase in through enhancements in training and technol- who are not already married, the U.S. partner denied I-601A before from a previous lawyer. interviews for: ogy as well as transitions in some aspects of case can sponsor their spouse to come to the U.S. on a 10. On March 22, 2017, we received an Im- . Adjustment of status applications based on management. fiancé/e visa, which will allow the two to marry in migrant Visa approval for a child of Permanent employment (Form I-485, Application to Register Additionally, individuals can report allega- the U.S. and subsequently file a marriage based Resident who is already 25 years of age but classi- Permanent Residence or Adjust Status). tions of immigration fraud or abuse by complet- application. fied as minor under CSPA. . Refugee/asylee relative petitions (Form ing ICE’s HSI Tip Form. Consular processing is also the option that If you have immigration problems the Law I-730, Refugee/Asylee Relative Petition) for For more information on USCIS and its families have to pursue if the foreign spouse Offices of Crispin C. Lozano can help you find a beneficiaries who are in the United States and programs, please visit uscis.gov or follow us on entered the U.S. without inspection. However, solution before your problem gets worse which are petitioning to join a principal asylee/refugee Twitter (@uscis), YouTube (/uscis), Facebook(/ when the foreign national spouse leaves the U.S. could lead to deportation and family separation. applicant. uscis) and Instagram (@USCIS). to apply, they may be prohibited from returning Crispin Caday Lozano, Esq. is an active “USCIS is collaborating with our federal because of the three-year/ten-year bar on return- member of the State Bar of California, the Ameri- ing to the U.S. following the accrual of unlawful can Immigration Lawyers Association and San presence here. As a result, some families may be Francisco Trial Lawyers Association. He special- DACA recipients’ economic and educational gains continue need to file for a provisional waiver of this bar izes in immigration law and personal injury. For from within the U.S. and wait here for the waiver free consultation email or call ([email protected]/ to grow, according to largest study to date to be approved before the foreign partner leaves 1-877-456-9266) Washington, D.C. — According to the largest $10.29 per hour to $17.46 per hour (84 percent and latest study of its kind to date, the economic among respondents 25 years and older). LGBTQ to Trump: “Why Don’t We Belong?” and educational gains made by beneficiaries of Purchasing power of DACA recipients con- Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) tinues to increase. Nearly two-thirds of respon- SANTA ANA, Calif. -- The past seven months cians even turn away LGBT identifiable patients continue to grow. The national survey, published dents (65 percent) reported purchasing their first have been traumatic for the LGBTQ community. because of their personal beliefs. today by Tom K. Wong, professor at the Univer- car, which is important not only in terms of state Within a day of Pres. Trump’s inauguration, the Receiving affirmative medical care always is sity of California, San Diego; the Center for Amer- revenue but also regarding the safety benefits of White House LGBT and HIV pages were taken a challenge for us. Now there is the added layer of ican Progress; the National Immigration Law having more licensed and insured drivers on the down. Last week, Trump directed the military not uncertainty and fear. LGBTQ immigrants worry Center (NILC); and United We Dream (UWD) roads. Additionally, the survey found that 16 per- to allow transgender individuals to be recruited that if they set foot in a community health center, finds that even during a time when the future of cent of respondents purchased their first home into the armed forces, following through on his they could be deported. LGBTQ fear being mis- the DACA is uncertain, recipients continue to after receiving DACA. intentions announced through a tweet a month treated and/or even sexually assaulted. make positive and significant contributions to the 45 percent of respondents are currently in earlier to ban LGBTQ from serving. We need to quell the myths, lies and fears economy, gaining higher wages, buying cars and school, with 72 percent pursuing a bachelor’s The memorandum also bans the Department surrounding the LGBT population among the houses, and starting businesses, benefiting the degree or higher. Because of DACA, 94 percent of of Defense from using taxpayer money for gender general public. Equally important, we need those entire nation. respondents currently in school said they pursued transition and hormone therapy services. in the health care profession – physicians, physi- “The available evidence couldn’t be clearer: educational opportunities they previously could All of us at the LGBT Center of Orange Coun- cian assistant, office staff, nurses – to be more DACA positively impacts the lives of recipients, not. ty – one of the oldest gay and lesbian centers in user friendly for us. And we need to communicate their families, and the American economy more “At a time when the DACA program is in im- the country -- couldn’t believe it. How could he with our local elected representatives. Orange broadly,” said Tom K. Wong, professor at the minent danger, these survey results show the in- judge us merely by our sexual orienta- University of California, San Diego and co-author credibly high stakes for immigrant youth and the tion and gender identity? Doesn’t he of the report. “As the data show, 97 percent of entire nation if Trump kills this vital protection,” know we are just as patriotic as anyone DACA recipients are currently in school or are said Cristina Jimenez, executive director at UWD. else? working. DACA recipients have been able to “For us, this survey tells the story of immigrant I became a health care advocate pursue educational opportunities they previously youth, like my brother, who have gotten work, back in 2012 because in my own transi- could not and have also been able to move to gone to school, supported their families and built tion I encountered a lot of pushback jobs that better fit their education and training. their lives over the last five years. Keeping DACA from the insurance companies and the As a result, the American economy has a more should be a no brainer, but instead, white su- medical community. I thought if this prepared and competitive workforce. Some are premacists in the White House and in a few state was happening to me it could happen using their entrepreneurial talents to start their capitals are unnecessarily putting all this progress to other members of the LGBT commu- own businesses and create jobs. Others are now at risk. If Trump and his administration decide nity. Since then, we have made great working for some of the largest companies in to kill DACA, it’s because they are putting white strides in California. But all that now the world. DACA has provided a glimpse of the supremacy before the good of the nation and seems in jeopardy. potential of these young people, and their contri- immigrant families. Period. Trump and Speaker Calls to our center have spiked butions are continuing to grow. A decision to end Paul Ryan (R-WI) must keep immigrant youth with our front desk now fielding around DACA now would be a mistake.” safe or they will have blood on their hands.” Highlights of the survey’s findings include: Additionally, the survey found that at least 280 calls a month, and that doesn’t (Photo: www.thedp.com) include calls to individual staff. People Work authorization is critical in helping 72 percent of the top 25 Fortune 500 compa- ask, “Where do I stand with my health DACA recipients participate more fully in the la- nies—including Walmart, Apple, General Motors, care? Where do I stand with my hormones? Will I County, which was once very conservative, seems bor force, with 97 percent of respondents current- Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, Home Depot, and be able to continue getting sex change surgeries?” to be turning blue, even though we have federal ly employed or enrolled in school. After receiving Wells Fargo, among others—employ DACA The most disheartening question recently came lawmakers here who back Trump’s policies. I DACA, 69 percent of respondents reported mov- recipients. These companies account for $2.8 tril- from a transgender youth. “Why,” he asked, “does wrote to Mimi Walters, R-Irvine, asking her how ing to a job with better pay; 54 percent moved to lion in annual revenue. my country not want me?” she felt about Trump’s military ban. She hasn’t a job that better fit their education and training; “With each survey of DACA recipients, it has How do we answer this question? We are responded. 54 percent moved to a job that better fit their become more evident that when we as a country constantly having to dispel so many miscon- Finally, we need to pressure top lawmakers long-term career goals; and 56 percent moved to empower people through opportunities—rather ceptions people have of us: We are not men in to speak out against the bigotry and racial hatred a job with better working conditions than pouring so many of our resources into dresses, we are not going to hit on your husband that are engulfing our county. We want funding DACA recipients outpace the general popula- restricting life’s possibilities—society becomes or wife, we are not going to attack your children. for HIV prevention to be restored. We want the tion in terms of business creation, with 5 percent richer, safer, more cohesive, and more produc- We just want the same rights as everyone else in LGBT page restored on the White House website. of respondents starting their own business after tive,” said Patrick O’Shea, Mellon/ACLS Public the United States. To live as our true and authen- We want the federal government to recognize receiving DACA and 8 percent among respon- Fellow at NILC and co-author of the report. “This tic selves while accessing the health care that we that there is a problem with hate crimes against dents 25 years and older. Among the American data shows that inclusive policies are not idealis- need. If a straight person can receive medical the LGBT community, especially trans-women of public, the rate of starting businesses is 3.1 tic or altruistic gestures. In very concrete terms, treatment for various ailments or preventative color. percent. by providing a pathway for these young people care, those in the LGBT community should be Why should I have to keep telling people DACA has a positive and significant effect on to become more fully incorporated into their able to, as well. that we are regular human beings who put our wages, which are important not only for recipi- communities, DACA has produced higher levels Many physicians aren’t conversant with the pants on one leg at a time? That our lives matter, ents and their families but also for tax revenues of education, employment, entrepreneurship, and health care needs of the LGBT community or with that our health matters. That we belong to this and economic growth at the local, state, and belonging, which are the conditions for a stron- how to prevent sexually transmitted diseases. country just as much as they do. (NAM) federal levels. The hourly wage of respondents in- ger, healthier society.” In our semi-conservative county, some physi- creased by 69 percent since receiving DACA, from Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star B5 health & Health@Heart Diet, cellphone, etc. lifestyle PHILIP S. CHUA, of a “Fat Gene,” tells us that not all fat people are And for those who now crave for alcoholic drinks, to the body as most men do, the battery should be MD, FACS, FPCS eating their way to obesity. Some people are simply this discovery could spell a big difference towards facing away from the body since this acts as the “destined” to be overweight. the prevention of alcoholism in the future. antenna, the dial pad facing the body. If not using “Eating whole grains Researchers stated that “overweight people For obese persons where diet alone and a hands-free device, switching from one ear to the instead of bakery prod- are predisposed to gaining weight in much the exercise are not enough to control their weight, other every 15 seconds or so is a good practice. As ucts, rice, and pasta low- same way that kids born to brunette parents are gastric bypass is an option. One of the common much as possible do not use cellphone in elevators ers high cholesterol, low- likely to have, gasp!, brown hair.” procedures cuts out the right half (and “tip”) of the or close spaces, since the weak signal will make the ers high blood pressure, All the studies have confirmed that many stomach that produces ghrelin, reducing stomach phone maximize its signal strength (and radia- reduces body weight… individuals genetically programmed to have weight size (to make the individual feel full sooner) and at tion!). Children should NOT use cell-phones except and lowers insulin level,” problems have a chromosomal abnormality, which the same time reducing ghrelin. for emergencies, since they are more vulnerable to says an article from the “deprives them of normal amounts of dopamine, Electromagnetic risks the effects of radiation. Framingham Study pub- the feel-good drug released by the brain in re- At what dose of repeated radiation exposure Exercise Wonders lished in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. sponse to stress.” from medical imaging diagnostic devices, natu- The amazing wonders of physical exercise are The study points our that elevated insulin The World Health Organization estimates that ral or artificial sunbathing, microwave oven, cell scientifically proven to keep the body and mind levels constrict arteries to cause chest pains or even more than 1.6 billion adults worldwide are over- phone signals, radiofrequency (radio-TV) signals, healthy, strengthen the immune system, improve heart attacks. High levels of insulin also stimulate weight and about half a billion are obese. And this extremely low frequency power lines (said to be cardiovascular fitness and reduces heart attacks the hypothalamus in the brain to make you hungry, problem is associated with diabetes, high blood associated with childhood leukemia) can cause by 33%, lessen the risk of the development of type and stimulate the liver to manufacture fat and pressure, arthritis, and even cancer. various forms of illnesses, including cancer, is still 2 diabetes by 91%, prevent, if not minimize high make you fat. And the opposite is true: everything As always, this kind of discovery often leads to controversial. But we cannot simply ignore the blood pressure by more than a third --- all these that lowers insulin levels helps you lose weight, a prompt search for a remedy, if not a cure. And warnings. In this current situation, the wise and for doing 30 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a lowers high blood pressure, lowers cholesterol, and scientific “diagnosis” like this one is a welcome prudent strategy is to minimize exposure to any of week. Tai Chi, Tai Bo, dancing at any speed, walk- prevents heart attacks, diabetes and strokes. find, one that will open a lot of doors for research these electromagnetic forces as much as we can as ing (moderate to brisk), swimming, bicycling, or Eating rice or foods made with flour leads that will someday arm us with “weapons” to battle we take advantage of the benefits provided by these any aerobic exercise. There is no age limit to doing to a rapid rise in blood sugar level, which is not and prevent diabetes and other metabolic diseases. advances in science and technology. Let’s just be exercises. My mother did aerobic exercise up to healthy, and is one of the reasons why there is an Hormones Curb Cravings more conscious and careful. her mid-80s (at a moderated pace) daily 2-mile epidemic of type 2 diabetes, especially in the Phil- New research suggests that “appetite-regulat- Cellphone warnings exercise following the Leslie Sansone’s DVD aero- ippines. Whole grains, and other more complex ing hormones and peptides may be involved in the Electrical Hypersensitivity Syndrome is truly bic exercise program. At 99, though using a walker carbohydrates, according to our current knowledge neurobiology of alcohol craving, and has confirmed a medical condition, characterized by fatigue, and some help, she still feels great, remembering “are like capsules that release their contents very that appetite-regulating peptides leptin (satiety dizziness, tinnitus, facial rash, digestive symp- the birthdays of my 10 grandchildren, better than slowly. It takes about an hour to cook whole grains hormone, reduces appetite) and ghrelin (hunger toms, following “exposure to visual display units, I could. because of this tight capsule, and your body still hormone, increases appetite) do indeed influence mobile phones, Wi-Fi equipment, and common- Besides positive attitude and a cheerful coun- has a difficult time breaking the capsule, so they alcohol craving, but especially among certain sub- place appliances, affecting about 3% of all people tenance, proper diet, abstinence from smoking and are very slow to digest. Whole grains help prevent types of alcoholics.” Craving is a significant factor and about 33% of us to a lesser extent.” Cordless moderation in alcohol intake (red wine preferred), diabetes and obesity because they keep insulin to the development and maintenance of alcohol- phones and mobile phones emit the same amount exercise is a major key to health and longevity, as levels lower. ism. of radiation…landline phones don’t. Use of speaker it lowers the risk for cardiovascular and metabolic The culprit These new findings are essential in finding phone for cordless and mobile phones, or a hollow illnesses, Alzheirmer’s, and even cancer. Most of us, including physicians, used to think a drug that could prevent addiction among those (preferred) wired (hands-free) earpiece is safer. Visit philipSchua.com Email: scalpelpen@ (till recently) that people who were overweight or who are more prone to it. Many shun even social Bluetooth wireless headsets are worse emitters. gmail.com fat were “eating too much.” To a significant extent, drinking, especially among Asians, for fear that Texting is safer than calling with the handset that may well be true. But the recent discovery frequent parties might lead to a craving for alcohol. against your ear. If the cellphone is carried close Heading back to a job that involves standing? A podiatrist offers 10 top tips Summer vacations are nearly over, and the foot and deep enough in the toe area so that these conditions,” says Lepow. - It’s not just important that working adults for many of us that means back to work time toes can move around easily. - If you do have pain, Lepow suggests look after their feet. For students who are and back to school. As we prepare to make the - Shoes should support the arch and have stretching exercises to help relieve discomfort. heading back to school, Lepow also suggests return, a podiatrist at Baylor College of Medi- a firm heel counter so the heel does not slip Soaking feet in a whirlpool at the end of the day purchasing supportive shoes that are well-suited cine in the United States has suggested adding a around in the shoe. also can help relax the muscles. for school-day activities rather than sandals or comfortable pair of shoes onto your new season - Open-back or sling-back shoes are not as - Another common problem can be exces- flip-flops. shopping list, especially for those who work on supportive. If you are allowed to wear a more sive perspiration, which can lead to athlete’s If these problems are prolonged and are not their feet all day. casual shoe in your workplace, Lepow suggests foot. Lepow advises using a good foot powder to relieved by other techniques such as the ones “Some are less active during the summer an athletic shoe. prevent sweating and suggests not wearing the suggested here, Lepow suggests seeing a po- months than during the school year, and this - If shoes do not offer adequate sup- same shoe every day. Instead, try to use a shoe diatrist to see if a more aggressive treatment or can be a factor in getting back into the swing port, there are over-the-counter arch support tree and alternate your shoes every third day to physical therapy is appropriate. (inquirer.net) of things,” said Dr. Ronald Lepow, assistant products available as well as custom-designed give the inside of the shoe time to dry out. If this professor of orthopedic surgery at Baylor. “For orthotics through a podiatrist. doesn’t work, try using an anti-perspirant on the those who stayed active, their routine will not be - Common problems related to unsupport- bottom of the feet each day. too different in the fall, but there may be an ad- ive shoes include plantar fasciitis, or pain on the - If you do get athlete’s foot, it’s important justment period for those who were less active.” bottom of the foot, and Achilles tendonitis, pain to determine what type it is in order to treat it. Here, he provides 10 tips for good foot in the back of the heel. “If you have gone from a Different over-the-counter products are avail- health. period of relative inactivity to being on your feet able for dry, scaly skin versus red, hot and swol- - Look for shoes that are wide enough for for seven hours a day, you might develop one of len skin on the feet. HOROSCOPE http://www.starlightastrology.com

Aries Libra (Mar. 21- April 20) (Sept. 24 -Oct. 23) Children will be of major concern if you haven’t Don’t let someone talk you into parting with kept the lines of communication open. There your cash unless you can truly see the benefits could be opposition or temper tantrums on the of doing so. Secret affairs will eventually backfire home front. Assist a relative or good friend by on you. You need a change and you need to earn setting of a budget for them. Pleasure trips will more cash. Be careful not to hurt the ones you ease the tension between you and your mate. love. Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. Your lucky day this week will be Monday.

Taurus Scorpio (Apr. 21- may 21) (Oct. 24 - Nov. 22) You can make rewarding connections through Organization will be the key to avoiding discord the organized groups you associate with. and family feuds. Your mate may be distressed Don’t hesitate to take short trips. Sit back and if you refuse to make a commitment. Take time Answers to LAST WEEK’S Krosword observe, regardless of how hard that might be. to do something nice for yourself. One of your Avoid arguments with relatives who might be female friends may try to disrupt your day. Stand conservative and outdated. up for your rights. Your lucky day this week will be Saturday. Your lucky day this week will be Friday. KrosWord Gemini Sagittarius (Source: Classic Pilipino Krosword, as edited by Ramon S. Lorenzo) (May 22-June 21) (Nov. 23 -Dec. 21) You won’t be able to keep a secret. Now is a Groups you belong to will not only enjoy your PAHALANG good time to ask for favors. Enjoy the company company, but they will also share your interests. 1 Palayaw ni Jose Rizal of relatives this week. If possible, rely on You can make wonderful contributions to any 4 Sandali coworkers to back your objectives, and talk to organization that you join. Ease the anguish by 8 Ilug-ilugan offering assistance. Any attractions toward clients superiors in order to get approval. 10 Batas Your lucky day this week will be Friday. will be one sided and must be put right out of your head. 11 Disinterya Cancer Your lucky day this week will be Monday. 12 Positibong sagot (June 22-July 22) 14 Tunog ng orasan Restrictions may be difficult for you to live Capricorn 16 Notang musikal with. Do the necessary chores and then do (Dec 22.- Jan. 20) 17 Singer na Geronimo things that please you. Balance is required if Partnerships may be strained if one of you has 19 Panghalip dalawahan you want stability. Your intellectual charm will been erratic and hard to deal with. Your sensitive 20 Kahoy na panggatong win hearts and bring opportunities that you least nature will allow others to read you well. Be 21 Negatibong sagot precise in your communications to avoid any expect. 22 Old Latin Your lucky day this week will be Sunday. misunderstandings and arguments. If you can work at home, do so. 23 Bansa sa Africa Leo Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. 27 Tantay ng pelikula (July 23-Aug 22) 29 Marka Try to concentrate on research and acquiring Aquarius 30 Simbolo ng Argon information that will be of value in your chosen (Jan. 21.- Feb. 19) 31 Madre: Ingles field. You mustn’t give too much to your Communicate with relatives who may need 33 Tit for ___ children. Take precautions while traveling; you advice in order to find solutions to their existing 34 Bagwis don’t have to get anywhere that fast. Take a look problems. Don’t let your jealousy be the reason 35 Huwag: Ingles for a decaying relationship. You may not be happy at your legal position. 37 Iddi___ ng Uganda Your lucky day this week will be Friday. if members of your family are not pulling their weight. It will be important that you have your 38 Lasa ng suka Virgo priorities straight. 39 Pamumuti sa balat (Aug. 23 -Sept. 23) Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. You could meet an interesting individual you’ll PABABA want to get to know better. Romantic encounters Pisces 1 Pagod 13 Lagari: Ingles 32 Numbers: daglat will be full of excitement. Depression may be (Feb. 20-Mar. 20) 2 Anak ni 15 Nilulubugan ng araw 34 Tatay likely if you’re away from home. You might find Be careful how you handle friends and relatives, 3 Simbolo ng Protactinium 17 Peste 36 Notang musikal that the extra cash will come in handy when an they may take things the wrong way. You will be 5 Pantukoy Italyano 18 Beso 37 Hulapi opportunity to invest comes along. moody and react poorly to issues concerning 6 Palayaw ni Katrina 24 Tatay ni Krista Your lucky day this week will be Wednesday. your mate. Don’t get involved in other people’s 7 Kanta 25 Utos private doings. Being unappreciated by your boss could make it hard to do your work effectively. 8 Dakong sinisikatan ng araw 26 Daglat na wika Your lucky day this week will be Monday. 9 Salapi 28 Juan o Antonio Answers to this week’s Krosword 12 Baka sa Tibet 30 Ito o iyon on NEXT WEEK’S issue B6 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 entertainment Ungainly mix of elements fudges Jake Zyrus’ mother lashes back up new action-drama series We’ve watched the first catching “moments” are edited All too often, the effort to at ‘lies’ in MMK episode few telecasts of the new season into the show as a whole, they make the show a “fun” viewing Jake Zyrus told his pain- your brother.” rejection of her sexuality— of the action-drama series, too get in the way of the action. experience on all fronts damp- ful life story on the TV drama In an interview with ABS- whether it was dressing as “Alyas Robin Hood,” and can For instance, in the series’ ens its excitement and fudges series “” CBN, Pempengco gave her side a boy or falling in love with encouragingly report that its very first telecast, she was up the brisk editing that action- Saturday evening. regarding certain scenes in the a person of the same sex— key strengths include Dingdong made to make a really grand dramas need to have to live up The episode depicted the episode, such as when Zyrus and putting pressure on her Dantes’ believably heroic por- entrance—by way of an airborne to viewers’ upbeat expectations. emotional and physical abuse was still Charice and providing in terms of her career, led trayal of the title character, and appearance via parachute, cool- In another tellingly “off” ac- he experienced since child- financial support to her family. Charice to multiple suicide some really big action scenes ly landing in a big swimming tion setup, a group of terrorists hood from his mother, Raquel “Sa buong storya na sinabi attempts. that occasionally “open up” the pool, where she proceeded to attacked a government building Pempengco, portrayed by Dina ni Charice, lahat ito walang “Ilang beses siyang series to “filmic” excitement and take off her jumpsuit to reveal and held many people hostage, Bonnevie. katotohanan puro kasinungal- lumayas, ilang beses bumalik scope. an exceedingly wee bikini. including Robin Hood’s mother Mutya Orquia and Shar- ingan ang lahat ng sinabi ni puro ako ang pinasasama niya Having said that, however, That was great for the and Andrea’s character. lene San Pedro played Charice Charice dito (Charice’s entire palagi (She ran away and came we should also share that other oglers out there, but the “grand Alas, the key scene couldn’t while Zyrus played himself account is false.).” back several times but she action moments are compro- entrance” took so long to play build up and peak in excite- transitioning as a man. She still referred to her still puts me in a bad light.),” mised by their taking too long to out that it dampened the excite- ment as it needed to, because According to Jake, his child as Charice despite his Pempengco related. She also unspool, a number of improb- ment of the (too extended) many minutes were frittered mother had always been op- able confrontations that are too scene. away with improbable detours posed to expressing himself as easily resolved, and an awkward No fault of the sultry Ms and distractions that distended a man, even as she herself once mix of comedy and action, Andrea, of course, but the the action and fuzzed up the admitted to being a lesbian. “sexy” and action, etc. awkward mix and mix-up of ele- tension. Pempengco chose to tell The comedy is provided by ments shows that the series has To really succeed, “Alyas her side on Facebook and a number of “sidekicks” who “focus” problems that should Robin Hood” has to remind through media interviews. keep butting in with “funny” be fixed early on, before they itself that it’s principally an On Sunday morning, she remarks, most of which aren’t become really offputting. action-drama production. Yes, shared a baby photo of Charice really that amusing and just get Dingdong’s lead portrayal is other elements can stir up and and her brother supposedly in the way of the action scenes’ a real plus for the show, because sweeten the pot, but only if after their father left them with uptempo progression. it assures viewers that we’re in they’re brief and to the point, the following caption: As for the “sexy,” some of competent heroic hands. and if they work. “Pinipilit mong iangat ang it is compliments of the show’s So, it shouldn’t be com- If the comedy falls flat and sarili mo kahit puro kasi- leading lady, Andrea Torres, promised by other people’s less the “sexy” sags, the show’s main nungalingan ang gawin mo? who’s an enthusiastic eyeful than efficient work—and by the cause for being and being seen (You’re still trying to raise Jake Cyrus who isn’t shy about sharing her temptation to score big, not just is fudged up and compromised. your status even if you’re full (Photo: www.esquiremag.ph) “assets.” on point of exciting action, but Just saying. (Nestor U. Torre / of lies?)…Kasama ka pa rin sa Trouble is, the way her eye- also in “fun and games.” inquirer.net) pananalangin at pag darasal identifying himself as a man claimed that the suicide at- ko. Maramiming makakapag- and naming himself Jake tempts were because of a non- patunay na dati mong mga kai- Zyrus this year. showbiz girlfriend. Look: Michael V. recalls first show on rival bigan kung sino ako sa inyong The episode showed Cha- “Isa lang mensahe ko sa network, why he doesn’t work on Sundays magkapatid. Marami ka ng ta- rice giving P500,000 a month kanya huwag na niyang dagda- ong ginamit. (You are still part to her family when she was in gan pa ang kasalanan niya (My Michael V. took to Ins- Quizon, Patrick Guzman, of my prayers. Many can prove the United States, only to get only message for her is not to tagram to reminisce his early Maila Gumila, , how I really was with you and hit with tax evasion charges add to her sins anymore.),” days in showbiz. Eagle Riggs, Danny Pansalin your brother. You have used so and find bills left unpaid. Pempengco added. “Ready, Get Set, Go!” was and (later on) Carmina Villa- many people.)” “Ang katotohanan ay 2010 She also claimed that a Sunday game show in the roel and G. Toengi as hosts.” In another post, she wrote, pa pinabayaan na kami niyan Zyrus was desperate to revive 1990s and the Kapuso come- Bitoy gave credit to peo- “Sobra ang tinulo ng luha ko ni Charice… Bakit ako ang his career: “Walang alam na dian’s “first ever TV show,” he ple behind the scenes, such as habang nanood ako muntik sinisisi niya sa tax niya hindi trabaho si Charice kaya pinip- recalled. late directors Wenn Deramas pa kong atakihin. How can i naman ako ang manager niya ilit niya na i-survive ang career The “Pepito Manaloto” and Gilbert Perez, producer defend myself? Gusto kong at accountant niya (The truth niya. Lalo na ngayon at wala star posted a series of photos of and writer Enrico Santos, magalit sumumpa pero di ko is Charice left us on our own na siyang boses na ipagma- the show and wondered, “Bakit producer Dagang Vilbar, and magawa kasi nangingibabaw since 2010. Why is she blam- malaki (She doesn’t know any- wala akong mahanap na photo ABS-CBN COO Cory Vidanes. pa rin ang pagmamahal ko sa ing me for her taxes when I’m thing other than singing which or video sa internet? (Why are He said the show “was inyong magkapatid. (I cried neither her manager nor her is why she’s trying to make her there no photos or videos of it undefeated in ratings until its so much, I almost got a heart accountant?),” Pempengco career survive, especially now online?)” final episode.” attack… I want to be angry, to told the network. that she has no more voice to He shared what work was “Incidentally, it was curse, but I still love you and As Charice, her mother’s boast of).” (inquirer.net) like for him at that time: “I supposed to be my final year Michael V. used to drive from Cavite to too. Noon ako nag-decide na (Photo: www.8list.ph) Quezon City every Sunday and Sunday should be a FAMILY The Kings, other Filipino stars dominate make it to the studio before DAY and it’s been like that for 11am.” me ever since,” he shared. Michael V. has found suc- Discovery Channel lineup He also named the come- While he had fond memo- cess in GMA since 1995, as part dians and actors he was able ries, when asked if he would of the long-running gag show to work with: “I did rap intros return to ABS-CBN, Bitoy had “”. (Nina V. Guno to all the segments with Eric the last laugh: / inquirer.net)

(Photo: www.tvnews4u.com)

The toughest challenge in millennial viewership. Increas- premiere performance.” creating programming for cable ingly, there are more content He added that “The Kings” TV these days is still piracy, choices and platforms than ever proves to be a resounding suc- according to Shavkat Berdiev, before. Casbaa gives us the op- cess among millennial audi- Discovery Networks Asia Pa- portunity to [understand] the ences, receiving over 2 million cific’s vice president and general needs and social behavior … to views, close to 5,000 comments manager. deliver local, relevant content for and over 7,000 shares on Face- “Piracy remains a scourge today’s audiences.” book. for the media industry across the Discovery is also investing There are other Pinoy- world, and in the Philippines, it’s in more local content, across geared programs in the works, no different,” Berdiev told the multiple platforms and formats, added Berdiev. “Filipino stars Inquirer in an e-mail interview. according to Berdiev: “Sixteen populate our network. The “On one hand, it will take new local productions will be pop-science comedy program, better enforcement and public commissioned for the network’s ‘You Have Been Warned Asia,’ education. On the other hand, flagship brands, Discovery Chan- [has in its cast] Ramon Bautista, content creators need to band nel and TLC … A significant por- Lourd de Veyra, Jun Sabayton, together to tap into all avenues tion of our content investment is RA Rivera and Angel Rivero. and platforms of legally sharing in the Philippines.” In October, the comedy-travel what they create with audi- The country is a “robust and adventure series, “Worst Vaca- ences.” competitive market,” he de- tion Ever,” will star KC and Troy Berdiev, who will arrive in clared. How has the viewership Montero.” the country tomorrow for the changed, amid various other Audiences will remain Cable and Satellite Broadcasting distractions? engaged as well in the foresee- Association of Asia’s (Casbaa) “With the evolving media able future. “The Philippines “Philippines in View” event the landscape, it is increasingly has always yielded amazing next day, said that the gather- important for us to be more stories and talent, and fosters ing would be for media industry experimental than ever before,” passionate audiences who have members to discuss trends he said. “Reception to our show high expectations for quality and seek opportunities for the in the Philippines has been over- content,” Berdiev said. “We also growth of the broadcasting sec- whelming. ‘The Kings,’ centered see the exciting potential for tor. around the relationship between strong Filipino hosts and talent He also shared that there’s prominent couple and LGBT to not only lead shows for us in an influx of younger Discovery advocates Angelina and Joey this market, but to travel the Channel viewers in the country. Mead King—the first of our local region and possibly fly the flag “The Philippines is a super-con- productions to premiere earlier for Southeast Asia and across the nected market with … voracious this year, made headways and globe.” (Oliver M. Pulumbarit / video consumers and [a] huge headlines with a strong digital inquirer.net) Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 FilAm Star B7 entertainment Superstar set to direct ‘dream’ movie Aiko Melendez flattered by her ‘Wildflower’ character memes Superstar keeps a journal, the coming movie. “I find them flattering, even though some of where she jots down the vivid dreams she had She has never shied away from crossing them are aimed at bashing me,” said actress Aiko the night before. gender lines onscreen, portraying a lesbian in a Melendez when the Inquirer sought her reac- She plans to direct a movie based on her feature film, Danny Zialcita’s “T-Bird at Ako,” tion to the memes that have been circulating in dream diary. and a short film, Adolfo Alix Jr.’s “Kinabukasan.” social media sites about her performance in the “Hindi dapat matakot na gampanan ang afternoon drama, “Wildflower.” mga role na tulad nito. Ito ay isang katotohanan In the ABS-CBN series, Aiko plays Emilia sa ating lipunan (We shouldn’t be afraid to play Ardiente-Torillo, the scheming and attention- roles like this. This is a reality in our society),” seeking archnemesis of lead character Ivy Aguas she said. (played by ). Fanny Serrrano wrote on Facebook that “Emilia’s reactions are often big and exag- he had received an offer to play the Superstar’s gerated, that’s why people like toying with her. brother in the yet-untitled LGBT film. I have some of the memes saved in my phone,” “Fanny and I got to work in my old drama Aiko said at a recent press luncheon that in- anthology, ‘Ang Makulay na Daigdig ni Nora’ in troduced her as one of the artists of the newly the ’70s. Magaling si Fanny,” Aunor recounted. formed talent and booking company called Asian Serrano admitted that the new assignment Artists Agency. had caught him by surprise. “I’m excited. My Asked which memes were her favorites, Aiko heart was pounding when Guy (Aunor’s nick- relented: “The one where the cast members are name) and I talked. She kept thanking me. I told pointing guns at each other and asking: ‘Who her that I should be the one thanking her.” farted?’ Another is the one with me supposedly Also in the cast are Rosanna Roces and John asking: ‘Nag-deo ka ba? Ang baho eh!’” Rendez, who will play the parents of a gay man. According to the actress, the memes are It is Roces’ fourth time to work with the an indication that people are watching and are Superstar. They had previously shared the screen interested in the show, and that they appreciate in Alix’s “Padre de Familia” and “Kinabukasan” Emilia. and ’s “.” Aiko added that even her teenage son, Andre “I always get nervous … siyempre Nora Yllana, was hooked. “There was this scene where Tito Pip (Tirso Aunor yata ’yan,” Roces exclaimed. Aiko Melendez Aunor was a ninang in the same-sex union Cruz III, who plays her father) announced that (Photo: www.whosdatedwho.com) of Roces and partner Blessy Arias last December. my wedding to Wendell (Ramos, costar) would If plans push through, , happen in a week’s time. Emilia reacted with a who romped away with a slew of awards for his loud, ‘No!’ Asked why, she said, ‘because I still one look. I have high regard for Maja—she’s al- gender-bending star turn in “,” will don’t have a gown!’ Andre said, ‘Mom, why do ways ready with her lines, and is even conscious Superstar Nora Aunor be part of the film, as well. you sound like a crazy woman? You’re funny!’” of the colors of both our nails for continuity’s (Photo: www.tempo.com.ph) “Oh my God! I’m going through all sorts of Aiko said she was pleased that she got the sake. She’s amazing!” emotions … nervous, excited … add experiencing audience reaction that she was aiming for from The actress added that she and Maja would “I will turn over the notebook to Kuya Ricky, a bum stomach, because of tension,” Ballesteros Andre. “I wanted to put a different twist to make sure to rehearse their confrontation who’s writing the script,” she told the Inquirer. quipped. portraying a kontrabida. Emilia is a villain you scenes, especially after the incident in June when She is referring to Ricky Lee, the scriptwriter be- The two movies will hopefully mark the re- will hate, but, at the same time, laugh at. I also the latter accidentally scratched her right eye. hind ’s “,” which features turn of the Superstar’s NV Productions, the same want people to pity her because, if you trace her “Maja was supposed to smear the cake I was one of La Aunor’s most unforgettable perfor- company behind her classic movies, “Banaue,” backstory, her father and husband never really holding on my face. We were both wearing high- mances. “Tatlong Taong Walang Diyos” and “Bona.” loved her. This drove her to the edge.” heeled shoes, and we slipped because of the icing In 1989, she directed “Greatest Perfor- Meanwhile, Aunor got baptized as part of on the floor, and she hit me by accident.” mance,” which costarred Tirso Cruz III, Michael Members of the Church of God International, Aiko was brought to the hospital, where doc- de Mesa and Julio Diaz. which is behind the TV program, “Ang Dating tors said she sustained a blood clot. She added Unfortunately, that directorial stint was Daan,” last Friday. This is the same group that that the injury was only a dot away from her never released, and the reels of the film were lost has been helping with her treatments, to recover cornea, which, if damaged, could cause her to go in a fire, she recalled. “Gumastos na ako noon her singing voice, which she had lost after a blind. ng P3 million pero nasayang lang (I had already botched cosmetic procedure in Japan seven “We still got to finish taping the scene. I spent P3 million, but it all went to waste).” years ago. guess it’s because of adrenaline, but I didn’t feel Before directing her “dream” movie, she is If all goes well, she plans to travel to Boston, pain until Wendell saw the redness in my eye,” set to headline a film on an advocacy close to her Massachusetts, before the end of the year, for the Aiko shared with the Inquirer. heart, the LGBT community. corrective surgery. (Photo: www.videos.catchsmile.com) “When Maja learned about it, she cried Last June, she attended an LGBT rally in “But I want to be in the country, to attend because she felt so guilty. It was an accident. Marikina, to celebrate gay pride month. The all the events organized by the fans for my 50th Now, we have this running joke on the set that if production team, which is headed by director anniversary, in October. It will be a busy month,” Aiko only has praises for Maja. “She’s a there’s a confrontation scene, we should all make Lito de Guzman and producer Joel Miguel, took she noted. (Bayani San Diego Jr. / inquirer.net) blessing to work with. I think we’re soulmates, sure an ambulance is on standby.” (Marinel R. footage of La Aunor at the rally, to include it in because we can read each other’s minds with just Cruz / inquirer.net) B8 FilAm Star Aug. 31 - Sept. 06, 2017 entertainment Ryan, Geoff, Max, Gabby and , What people don’t know about Show biz royalty and Cherie Gil. When nothing in your life What don’t people know my looks. It’s hard to portray The show is produced by makes sense, make sure not about Vhong Navarro? That I dramatic roles if you aren’t as MyOwnMann Productions, to lose your sense of humor. am not flexible. I cannot even handsome as Inc. So laugh your heart out and sit Indian- because it (laughs). “The acronym of the watch Regal Films’ “Woke Up hurts (laughs). Seriously, the toughest company is MOM,” Cherie Like This.” The movie’s trailer In line with your movie’s would be the trials that came explains. “Our mother, Rose has garnered 10 million views title, what are your “wake-up my way. But I know God has a Marie, raised me and my online. rituals?” I pray. I have become reason for all of this, and I just brothers Michael and Mark. It’s topbilled by Lovi Poe more prayerful, and it’s such a keep my heart and mind open I felt it would be the perfect and Vhong Navarro. Since wonderful feeling. to the lessons that He wants ode to all the Eigenmann they’re from rival networks, it’s What’s the best and to teach me through all the women in this generation and refreshing to see them together toughest part about being controversies. for those who would follow. onscreen. Vhong? The best is that I If you could travel back in Obviously, our family hasn’t In the film, their charac- stopped propagating, and I ters are trapped in each other’s am excited to witness what bodies. The mystery behind they will be up to next.” the switch leads to hilarious Back to the pictorial. It twists. took a lot of effort to gather Vhong’s “controversial” the Eigenmanns for one life is no laughing matter. Yet, The Eigenmanns shoot. the comic in him still manages (Photo: www.inquirer.net) “It was hard because to tickle our funny bone. of the schedules,” Michael Here’s my chat with The Gils are alive … with Presley of the Philippines. relates. “My son Ryan was not Vhong: the sound of music! Actually, Titled “Sing Us Your Song able to attend.” What advice will you give these gifted performers are the Again: The Music and Legacy Also sorely missed is Che- your son about love and wom- Eigenmanns, and they gath- of Eddie Mesa,” the concert is rie and Michael’s brother, ac- en? That there are different ered for a rare photo shoot for set on Sept. 23, 8 p.m., at the claimed actor , who types of women—I’m speak- the tribute-concert in honor Meralco Theater. passed away three years ago. ing from experience (laughs). of the clan’s patriarch, singer It topbills the Eigen- “We miss him terribly,” There are those who will try to Eddie Mesa, known as the Elvis manns: , says Michael. (inquirer.net) change you, some will give you their all and … [others] will ac- cept you the way you are. Baeby Baste’s dance song ‘Bastelicious’ now available for download In any relationship, what matters is they’re both whole Baeby Baste’s kiddie dance Papa Sol as an individual, so they don’t song “Bastelicious” is now Arumpac need to complete each other. available on Spotify and Apple handle [Do] not give all your love. You music. Baste’s must leave some for yourself. Eat Bulaga’s wonder boy social When do you intend to has metamorphosed from being media ac- settle down? Marriage is a the youngest host of the longest- counts. The commitment not just to my running noontime show “Eat post was partner, but also to myself and Bulaga” to being a commercial basically to God. Marriage must be able model, occasional child actor captioned and a certified kiddie singer. with thank to endure the trials when we It is through a recent you’s to find it hard to love. Instagram post that Sebastian the people I have found the one for Vhong Navarro Benedict Granfon Arumpac, or who made me. Because of her, my trauma (Photo: www.showbiznest.com) Baeby Baste simply Baste, announced to his his career of marriage is gone. We’re just (Photo: www.startattle.com) fans that his song is now avail- and his praying for God’s perfect tim- have supportive friends and time, what would you do dif- able for download. new song greater heights when he joined ing for us to get hitched. family. In show biz and with ferently? I would have finished “Mga dabarkads, pwede possible. “Eat Bulaga.” What have you learned all the controversies I’ve been my studies and fulfilled my nyo na pong idownload sa spo- Last Aug. 22, the cute boy In the noontime show’s from the controversies you’ve through, I’m lucky I have dream to become a pilot. tify and apple music. Sabay2x of “Eat Bulaga” just turned 5 in “Kalyeserye” segment, Baste been through? Being faithful, friends who stand by me. I If your life story would be po tayong mag #bastelicious.” an airplane and hot air ballon- was made the miniature ver- choosing the right friends, have loyal fans who gave me made into a movie, what would A few days ago, Baste themed birthday party. He first sion of Pambansang Bae Alden whom to trust, the importance a second chance, and bosses the title be? “Living La Vida posted on his Instagram the rose to fame as an online sensa- Richards, thus earning him the of family and, most impor- and colleagues who continue to Vhongga” or “Vhongga Ka, official music video of his song. tion. Nonetheless, his ticket title “Baeby Baste.” (Clarizel tantly, to be God-fearing. Only believe in me. ’Day” (laughs)! (Dolly Anne His parents, Mama Sheila and to mainstream fame reached Abanilla / inquirer.net) He can see everything. The toughest would be Carvajal / inquirer.net)