OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 1

♦ WEEKLY ♦ OCTOBER 4, 2008 ♦

HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS MAINLAND NEWS LEGAL NOTES DR. DANILO CANETE STEPS U.S. SENATE CHANGING DOWN AS CEO OF HAWAII OKAYS BAILOUT NON-IMMIGRANT MEDICAL CENTER BILL STATUS

HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE PRESORTED FEATURE STANDARD 94-356 WAIPAHU DEPOT RD., 2ND FLR. U.S. POSTAGE EXUALITY AND THNICITY WAIPAHU, HI 96797 PAID S E : HONOLULU, HI ISSUES FROM A PHILIPPINE PERMIT NO. 9661 PERSPECTIVE (PART 1) 2 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 EDITORIAL FROM THE PUBLISHER

’d like to welcome our readers to Publisher & Executive Editor Ray of Hope For Philippine yet another issue of the Hawaii Fil- Charlie Y. Sonido, M.D. ipino Chronicle—the state’s lead- Politics? Publisher & Managing Editor ing and only weekly Filipino Chona A. Montesines-Sonido n a span of a few short years, Quezon City has gone I newspaper! from a bankrupt municipality to one of the most fi- Now that the dust has cleared Associate Editors nancially-stable cities in the Philippines. Many ob- from the Primary Election, we can better ascer- Dennis Galolo servers credit the remarkable, overnight turn-around tain the results. Filipinos are no doubt disap- Edwin Quinabo to the courageous leadership of Mayor Sonny Bel- I pointed with the losses of Ron Menor and Alex Sonson in their Senate Creative Designer monte. races. Luckily, Honolulu City Council incumbents Romy Cachola Junggoi Peralta A look at Belmonte’s track record shows that success has followed him throughout his career. He has excelled and Nestor Garcia were re-elected to another term. Congratulations Design Consultant in running government corporations, headed the nation’s legisla- to both Council veterans and best wishes also to the remaining can- Randall Shiroma didates. May the best men and women win on November 4! ture and is now efficiently managing one of its most heavily-pop- Photographer ulated cities. If you were among the many thousands of voters who did not Tim Llena As mayor, Belmonte essentially ran Quezon City as a CEO vote in the Primary, we hope you will do so in the General Election. Administrative Assistant would a large corporation—he eliminated red tape, cut non-es- For those who have not yet registered, please do so by calling 768- Shalimar Pagulayan sential personnel, terminated questionable government contracts, 3800. Your vote really does make a difference. encouraged public input and feedback and upgraded the munici- Speaking of politics, our lead story for this issue, written by Car- Columnists pality’s computer systems. One of his first initiatives as mayor Carlota Ader lota Ader, is a candid interview with Sonny Belmonte, mayor of Que- Michelle Alarcon, Esq. was to revamp Quezon City’s tax collection system by switching zon City. Mayor Belmonte was recently in town for a seminar at the Carlo Cadiz, M.D. to a computerized process. This resulted in greater efficiency, ease East-West Center. Despite a hectic schedule, he made time to meet Sen. Will Espero and less graft. Now, any granting of business permits, assessment with the Filipino community and granted an interview for our paper. Grace F. Fong, Ed.D of real property taxes, and collection of various taxes and fees are Mayor Mufi Hannemann As mayor of Quezon City, Belmonte did what many thought was im- all computerized. Governor Linda Lingle He also pushed for a cleaner and greener environment; better possible—he ended graft and corruption and restored credibility and Ruth Elynia Mabanglo, Ph.D. government services in the areas of education, health and social the public’s trust in government. Please read more about Quezon Rosemarie Mendoza City’s remarkable turnaround as well as an interview with Mayor J.P. Orias services; and an improved network of streets, drainage systems Pacita Saludes and other infrastructure. Two years into the job, Belmonte received Belmonte on pages 4-5. Charlie Sonido, M.D. the Most Outstanding City Mayor For 2003. His accomplish- For our feature column, we have the first of a three-part series Emmanuel S. Tipon, Esq. ments, integrity, work ethic, competency and solid family back- written by Dr. Lilia Quindoza Santiago on “Sexuality and Ethnicity.” Felino S. Tubera ground also endeared him to many Quezon City residents, who An award-winning writer and author of several books, Dr. Santiago Sylvia Yuen, Ph.D. overwhelmingly elected him to a second term in 2005. is an assistant professor of Ilokano at the University of Hawaii- Many are hoping that Belmonte would seek higher office and Manoa. Her series will provide answers to such questions as: Can Contributing Writers end the decades of government corruption that has plagued the sexuality be a marker of ethnic identity? Conversely, does one’s eth- Calvin Alonzo, O.D. Rowena Ballesteros country. They are quick to point out that unlike current and previ- nic origin define or confine one’s sexuality? Please read more on ous politicians, Belmonte has no graft and corruption scandal Clement Bautista page 6. Linda Dela Cruz hounding him or any of his immediate family. In other news, we would like to congratulate Dr. Danelo Canete, Constante A. Domingo The decision will be most difficult for him. As a younger man, as he steps down after two years as CEO of the Hawaii Medical Cen- Dennis Galolo Belmonte was offered the plum position as Chief of the Bureau of Amelia Jacang, M.D. Customs—one of the most graft-ridden agencies in government. ter, to focus on his private practice. He will be succeeded by Dr. Caroline Julian But he politely turned down the offer from then-President Marcos Collin Dang, who will be continuing much of Dr. Canete’s initiatives Albert Lanier on the advice of his family who told him: “That is a good job for aimed at moving HMC forward. Please read more on page 9 as well Paul Melvin Palalay, M.D. Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq. as a related story on page 10. a bad man but a bad job for a good man.” Glenn Wakai An even tougher job would be that of the Philippines’ top ex- We hope that you will enjoy reading “Immigration Guide,” ecutive. His supporters believe he is more than capable of leading Philippine Correspondent “Legal Notes,” “Family Corner,” “View From the Edge” and other Guil Franco the country forward. They are willing to follow, but whether or regular columns. In closing, thank you once again for your continued not he is willing to lead remains to be seen. support. Until next time, Aloha and Mabuhay! Big Island Distributor Elmer Acasio Ditas Udani Celebrating Filipino Maui Distributor In the world of academics, the University of Hawaii-Manoa Cecile Piros has played a vital role in the perpetuation of our cultural heritage. History Month Molokai Distributor It is the only university in the U.S. that offers a Bachelor of Arts de- ilipino-Americans are the fastest growing and Maria Watanabe gree in Philippine Language & Literature. We are proud of this dis- third largest ethnic group in Hawaii. Since the ar- tinction as well as of the many distinguished and award-winning Advertising/Marketing Director rival of the first Filipinos to the U.S. during the Chona A. Montesines-Sonido Filipino-American professors who teach and head various depart- 1700s, Filipinos have contributed their share to ments at UH—educators like Dr. Belinda Aquino, Dr. Teresita Account Executives America’s rich history, culture and society. F Ramos, Dr. Ruth Mabanglo and Dr. Lilia Santiago, to name a few. Carlota Ader Recently, Gov. Lingle signed House Bill 3343 To all Filipinos of Hawaii, we salute and honor you for your J.P. Orias HD1 into law, which designated the month of Oc- contributions in the enrichment of our heritage and history. Let us The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle is published tober as Filipino-American History Month. The purpose was to continue to take pride in our past accomplishments and continue weekly by The Hawaii Filipino Chronicle Inc. commemorate the many contributions of Filipino-Americans. It is mailed directly to subscribers and dis- working together for a brighter future. tributed at various outlets around Oahu and Hawaii is the first state in the nation to enact such legislation. the neighbor islands. Editorial and advertis- Filipinos’ contributions to Hawaii’s history began with the ing deadlines are three weeks prior to pub- “sakadas” who were originally recruited as plantation workers in lication date. Subscriptions are available at $75 per year for Oahu and the neighbor is- the 1900s. They planted the roots for the Filipino migration and lands, continental U.S. $80, foreign country experience in Hawaii. Their sacrifices paved the way for future $90. Copyright 2006. The Hawaii Filipino generations of Filipino-American leaders—leaders like Pablo Chronicle Inc. is located at 94-356 Waipahu Depot, Waipahu, HI 96797. Telephone Manlapit, Benjamin Cayetano and Benjamin Menor to name a (808) 678-8930 Facsimile (808) 678-1829. few. Manlapit distinguished himself as a lawyer and spokesman E-mail [email protected]. Web- site: www.thefilipinochronicle.com. Opinions for the Filipino labor movement. His work in the labor move- expressed by the columnists and contribu- ment in the 1900s allowed future generations to enjoy improved tors do not necessarily reflect those of the labor conditions, higher wages and better benefits for all work- Hawaii Filipino Chronicle management. Re- production of the contents in whole or in part ers. Cayetano made history by being the first U.S. governor of is prohibited without written permission from Filipino ancestry, while Menor was the first Filipino-American the management. All rights reserved. in the U.S. to be elected as a State Senator and the first Filipino- Printed in the U.S.A. American to be appointed to the Hawaii State Supreme Court. OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 3 LEGISLATIVE CONNECTION

used widely throughout Europe, Crisis Leads to Ingenuity (Part 2) and which was recently put into the American market. The Smart Car's interest. This year Hawaii became Jacoby Development- Geo- power systems. You may have base price is $12,000. It gets 33 the first state in the nation to re- plasma intends to plan, design, read about the parabola in Aus- mpg in the city and 41 mpg on the quire that, as of 2010, all new sin- construct, and acquire land on the tralia, Spain, and California. So- highway. Addressing concerns that gle family homes must have solar Big Island for a plasma arc munic- pogy will plan, design, construct, passenger safety was being traded water heaters. You might have ipal solid waste processing system. equip, and operate a solar farm for fuel efficiency, the 1,800 pound seen news stories about "cow In its simplest sci-fi movie de- power plant on Oahu. car has a steel safety cage and four By Senator Will Espero power" providing electricity in scription, the plasma arc zaps land- standard air bags to protect passen- n 2007, on Oahu Vermont, Connecticut, Oregon, fill with hot-as-the-sun Cars gers, and received the highest rat- alone, the cost for im- and parts of Canada. Another law temperatures and produces California, along with 17 ing of good in front-end and ported fossil fuels to we passed permits farmers to in- methane which is used to generate other states – half the population of side-impact testing by the Insur- produce electricity stall energy facilities on agricul- electricity. the country -- put in their law ance Institute for Highway Safety. was upwards of tural land, provided that agriculture Oceanlinx, in its Maui Wave books a requirement that by 2009, The Institute's president said the I three-quarters of a remain the primary use of the land. Energy project will tap hydroki- automobile manufacturers design Smart Car's engineers designed a billion dollars, or Farm methane is one of the options netic power to generate electricity. cars that emit lower levels of high level of safety into a very more than $2 million available under the bill, along with Oceanlinx will plan, design and greenhouse gases. A key way to small package. a day. That expense borne by wind turbines or solar panels. You construct the facility off Pe'ahi near reduce emissions is to increase fuel The Smart Car's fuel effi- Oahu businesses and residents is may already be familiar with the "Jaws" at Maui's north coast and efficiency. I'm pondering intro- ciency still trails the Toyota Prius, expected to be higher in 2008, clothesline bill that allows clothes- supply electricity to Maui Electric ducing a bill to add Hawaii to that which gets 48 mpg in the city and since oil prices shot over $100 a lines that are out of view, despite Company. The technology is being list of states so that our drivers can 46 mpg on the highway. Toyota is barrel and continued to set record association rules to the contrary. used in projects under develop- stop paying so much at the pump. working on an array of alternative highs throughout this year. As one The bill was vetoed by the Gover- ment in Rhode Island, the United Please let me know what you think fuel cars in addition to its Prius. testifier described it, Hawaii's de- nor. The Senate overrode the veto, Kingdom, Australia, and South about this. Progressive Insurance earlier this pendence on oil is extreme, not but the House could not get 2/3 of Africa. The waves flowing The local newspapers already spring announced that it will co- only to generate electricity, but its members to vote to do so. through the twin turbines forces air had an article about those highly sponsor a $10 million competition also for cars, jet fuel, and utility In addition to these bills, the to reverberate through a column, efficient but "0 to 60 in 15 sec- for the most production ready, most gas, as well as a basis for many Legislature approved Special Pur- powering a turbine to generate en- onds" cars of the 1980s and 90s fuel efficient cars. The winners consumable products and fertilizer pose Revenue Bonds (SPRBs) to ergy. The project is expected to making a comeback, and the will race in the summer of 2009. for agricultural products. Accord- assist energy companies to raise in- generate enough electricity for as higher efficiency of diesel cars. Change is coming. The public ing to one source, at least eight vestment capital to finance proj- many as 1,600 Maui homes by Earlier this year Maui Energy and private sectors are working to- farms and Oahu's last dairy closed ects. Here's a rundown: 2009. Group, LLC discussed with me its ward decreasing our dependence on down within the last year, citing H2 Technologies plans to con- Hui Mana 'Oma'o ("Consoli- plans to offer electric cars by next imported oil. The benefits are clear: higher transportation and feedstock struct on the island of Hawaii, a hy- dated Green Power") received a summer, fleet sales only. The we can increase our national secu- costs as primary contributing fac- drogen generation research, SPRB for renewable energy proj- major auto manufacturers are said rity, decrease our economic vulner- tors. development and manufacturing fa- ects on Oahu. Its principals and af- to be planning increases in the ability, reduce our need to spend cility, and a gasoline- or diesel-to- filiates have long been laboring in number of hybrid and flex fuel cars heavily on military intervention Alternative Energy hydrogen automobile conversion both the cogeneration and renew- they produce. when our foreign oil suppliers may The Legislature found that en- garage to transition car owners to ables markets in Hawaii. Daimler Mercedes-Benz has be threatened, and help our cash- couraging the development of re- using hydrogen rather than im- Sopogy is a high tech com- received more than 30,000 reser- strapped residents and businesses be newable energy is in the public's ported petroleum-based fuel. pany producing concentrated solar vations for its Smart Car, a car better able to make ends meet.

Na Hoku II 4 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 COVER STORY Heart-to-Heart With Quezon City Mayor Sonny Belmonte By Carlota Ader management acumen. Among tems, to create new revenue his first moves as mayor was to sources to ensure a continu- hen Sonny Bel- revitalize tax collection. He ously increasing revenue base monte was pushed for computerized tax for the City. elected mayor of collection, which resulted in “Cities are now the new na- Quezon City in greater efficiency, accuracy and tions, able to source for them- W 2001, the city less graft. The city government selves investments, business was the most fi- also developed a database sys- opportunities and resources,” nancially dis- tem that now contains around Belmonte says. “In the Philip- tressed local government unit in 400,000 real property units with pines, more progressive cities Metro Manila and perhaps the the capability to record pay- like Quezon City are igniting entire county. The city was crip- ments, and the capacity to serve the engines of growth. Compe- pled by a staggering amount of 20,000 taxpayer transactions a tition becomes easier now that debt, including P1.25 billion to day. we have put our ‘house’ in the Land Bank and another P1.4 Belmonte was also bold order.” billion to various contractors. enough to pursue other neces- The general fund was over- sary cost-cutting measures that A Cleaner, Greener City Quezon City Mayor Feliciano “Sonny” Belmonte drawn by P10 million. his fellow politicians typically Quezon City has been with 500 tons less garbage a complete with a fully lighted In a span of two short years, avoided. Early on, he let lapse named the 2nd Cleanest and day, at a collection cost that was fountain and promenade areas. Belmonte turned bankrupt Que- the contracts of about 3,000 ca- Greenest City of the Philip- P 20 million a month less. Widening and paving of streets, zon City into one of the Philip- sual hires whose services were pines, according to the Depart- Once the scene of tragedy, development of inter-linking pines’ most stable cities. Just no longer needed by the city ment of Environment and the Payatas dump has been con- roads, rationalization of traffic how did he do it? government. Business taxes Natural Resources (DENR). verted into a controlled waste and disciplining of pedestrians were also raised considerably to When Belmonte first as- facility and has been recognized greatly reduced traffic conges- Effective fiscal management make Quezon City’s rates sumed office in 2001, he was by the DENR as a model and pi- tion. Observers point out many closer to the tax rates in neigh- astounded by the staggering oneering disposal facility. It is Other redevelopment ef- factors, most notably prudent boring cities. According to Bel- cost of garbage collection, now implementing a biogas re- forts have taken place in the fiscal management policies, ag- monte, these were sacrifices which even reached as high as duction project using the Clean Tomas Morato Avenue areas, gressive tax management strate- that had to be made in order to P80 million a month. He di- Development Mechanism under Metro Cubao and the other gies and a commitment to be realize the vision of a "Quality rected the study and implemen- the Kyoto protocol. northern portions of the City. more efficient and disciplined in Community." tation of a package clean-up Quezon City has also un- Belmonte’s administration has managing and using its re- Currently, his administra- system, to replace the corrup- dergone a dramatic urban trans- inspired such confidence in the sources. tion is further tapping the bene- tion-prone and contractor-influ- formation. One of the first private sector that investments Much of the success can be fits of technology, principally, enced “per-trip” system. This places this occurred was in No- in private developments have credited to Belmonte’s fiscal Geographic Information Sys- resulted in a much cleaner city, valiches, which now has its park grown exponentially since SB

Q: What can you say about mayor. All of this was due to Senator Obama running for sound fiscal management president for the US? and accountability, which A: Sen. Obama is quite a sen- many people could not be- sation and seems to be a lieve. That’s one of the rea- terrific person. There are sons why I received the two members of Congress Outstanding Mayor Award in the Philippines who idol- in 2003. ize him. He’s come so far in such a short time. I read his Q: What are some of your biography and was sur- achievements as Mayor of prised to learn that he at- Quezon City? tended Harvard University A: Because of our sound fiscal when he was in his late 20s. situation, Quezon City has embarked on massive infra- Q: What are the most pressing structure improvement. problems in Quezon City Along with major improve- today? Traffic? ments to the main thor- A: Quezon City has been oughfares, we also judged this year as the upgraded our drainage sys- most competitive city over tem, public lighting and so Metro Manila. In fact, Que- forth. The result is now a zon City enjoyed budget much more beautiful city. surpluses during 6 out of Those who have returned the 7 years that I have been after being away for awhile OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 5 COVER STORY took office. These are evident in infrastructure investments. Belmonte imbibed the impor- moral values, Belmonte proved Kevin, President of the rise of new shopping malls, These are investments to make tant values of public service his outstanding character and Philstar.com; Miguel, Presi- wide-scale real estate develop- people’s lives better—through from his parents. He attended maintained an unblemished rep- dent and Chief Executive Offi- ments, office buildings espe- safer communities, through elementary school in Baguio utation. He was thrice elected cer of the Star Group of cially those for business process more productive environments City and high school in San Congressman of the 4th District Companies; and Joy, an arche- outsourcing. In fact, investors because people and vehicles Beda College. He went to law of Quezon City and served as ologist and civic leader. are finding Quezon City to be a can move faster and more con- school at the Lyceum of the both House Minority Leader In sum, Belmonte has man- most cost-effective location, veniently to destinations, and Philippines while working as a and House Speaker of the 11th aged to inspire his colleagues, with the most expansive lands through more pleasurable and young reporter at the Manila Congress. constituents and even adver- still available for broad-scale healthy surroundings. Chronicle. For all of his accomplish- saries in making a difference in development. ”I did not aspire to be a Belmonte started his career ments, Belmonte’s family re- public service—even in a graft- mayor simply to look good in government service in the mains his crowning glory. His ridden society like the Philip- A Better Life For All while in office,” Belmonte says. 1960s when he served as Presi- wife, the late Betty Go Bel- pines. He did this by promoting Since 2002, the Philippine “It’s been said that the first task dential Staff Assistant for then- monte, founder of the Philip- productivity, efficiency and ac- Commission on Audit and the of a leader is to keep hope alive. President Diosdado Macapagal. pine Star, was a woman of countability. He has given a Department of Finance have re- But I want to go beyond that. I He temporarily retired from courage and true Christian new meaning to the term ‘pub- garded Quezon City as the local am working to make hope hap- government service during the faith who stood by him in lic servant’ by virtue of his out- government unit (LGU) with pen. I want the ensuing reality martial law years. When Cora- everything he did. They shared standing accomplishments over the highest net income in the to endure for many years to zon Aquino assumed the presi- a passion for political idealism, the years. Philippines. For four straight come by investing in the fu- dency in 1986, she appointed publishing and art. They have “It is not just a question of years, the City produced a ture.” Belmonte to head various gov- three sons and a daughter all of climate or culture,” Belmonte budget surplus averaging P282 ernment-owned corporations whom are successful in their was once quoted as saying. “It’s million annually. Belmonte’s Background that were on the brink of bank- own rights – Isaac, editor-in- also a question of morale and The people of Quezon City Born in Manila on October ruptcy. chief of the Philippine Star; incentives in action.” are now enjoying the fruits of 2, 1936 to Judge Feliciano Bel- A public servant with un- more than P 8 billion worth of monte, Sr. and his wife Luz, questionable integrity and

are amazed at the many im- A: Quezon City has so much to ambitious plan for the Me- provements. I’ve taken great offer. Quezon City has the morial Circle’s 26 hectares. pride in that. most IT centers in the entire These are just some of the Traffic has also improved Philippines, including call things that are very interest- greatly, not only because of centers, BPO’s best hospi- ing to see in Quezon City, the improved main thor- tals, popular wellness desti- which is basically a city on oughfares, but also because nations and the famous the move. of better-trained traffic offi- Lamesa Dam, which is a cers. Quezon City now has a huge reservoir that holds Q: Do you have plans to run for population of almost 2.7 mil- the water supply for Metro higher office? lion people. Over the past 7 Manila. Beside it is the 33 A: Some people are saying that years, our population has in- hectares Echo Park—a nat- a business executive and creased by about 505,000 ural oasis in the heart of the action-oriented person like people, which is about the city, which has a swimming myself could go quite far, population of Makati or pool, restaurants, refresh- especially when you exam- some of the bigger cities of ment bars, flower gardens, a ine my accomplishments. Metro Manila. butterfly garden, and a lot So they are encouraging me During my term, we con- more. to run for president. I am structed about 1,500 new There’s also Eastwood City giving it careful thought but school rooms, several brand in the south—a huge new I also have a fall back plan. new public health centers city with lots of high rise As you know, I was a con- and increased social serv- buildings and shopping gressman for 9 years and ices—all of which have at- malls. An important com- was also the Speaker of the tracted more people to mercial area is Cubao, House immediately after the Quezon City and which ac- which houses the Araneta change of government from counts for its growth over Center and a number of President Joseph Estrada to the past 7 years. landmark shopping malls, President Gloria Macapagal- The paradox here is that the including the ultra modern Arroyo. more you improve, the more Gateway Mall which con- At the moment, I’m content you must strive to remain nects to the MRT station. to be where I am. My heart competitive. This means tak- Near the Araneta Center are has always been in public ing care of business and in- numerous bus centers service, but not necessarily vestments, which are where one can take a bus in government. There are needed to sustain job ride to almost any point in other ways of serving peo- growth and economic activ- Luzon as well as in the ple, so I have these alterna- ities for people, particularly Visayas. tives in mind. I will make my the urban poor. Traveling North, there is No- choice soon. We have also strived to valiches or Fairview which achieve balanced economic is primarily residential. In Q: What can you say about Fil- growth, which means not the area is a new business ipinos here in Hawaii? putting all your eggs in one center anchored by SM A: The history of Filipinos in basket but to diversify your Mega Mall which has at- Hawaii goes back even be- holdings. This includes im- tracted a lot of redevelop- fore the turn of the century. proving our quality of life, ment, particularly in the old I think Filipinos have be- our infrastructure, and our Morato and Timog areas. We come an integral part of the business environment and are fixing up the sidewalks local economy. Even your so forth in order to achieve to become high class, wide Mayor Mufi Hanneman rec- even more growth. sidewalks so people can ognizes the Filipino em- As a result of our growth, walk and shop freely and powerment in politics and we have formed a Business comfortably. economics. Filipinos have & Investment Council to en- In addition, there is the new, become influential in many sure that Quezon City re- huge 5-story Trinoma Mall issues like some of the mains competitive in this which boasts lots of water other ethnic groups in global economy we are now features, restaurants and Hawaii including the Chi- living in. middle class vendors. We nese, Japanese and Cau- are also developing Quezon casians. Filipinos are one Q: How have you managed to City Memorial Circle. Its of the fastest growing eth- attract tourists, foreign in- management has been nic groups here. They could vestors and business peo- turned over to us beginning exert more influence if only ple to Quezon City? July 1, 2008. We have a very they were more united. 6 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 FEATURE Sexuality and Ethnicity: Issues from a healing ministering to the spirits (Part 1) to bless people especially Philippine Perspective women in their birthgiving. I me. Because of her, I was home- was a mang-aatang (Cagayan first cry. Then she would spon- think that both women embraced made, meaning, born inside the term for shaman)– one who min- sor a canao, which is an Igorot their religions to re-enforce their house. My mother gave birth to istered to the sick by offerings ritual for all sorts of celebrations belief systems and assert their By Lilia Quindoza Santiago me inside our house with her and prayers. She practiced – one of which is for birthgiving. ethnicity and sexuality as they y first lessons on help as Inang was a practicing buniag iti sirok ti latok (baptism Dr. Dolores Feria, my desired to continue with their sexuality and partera (midwife) and hilot through the plate) where she teacher in comparative literature roles in reproduction. I admired ethnic identity (massage therapist). placed an egg on a plate and at UP taught me not only a fond- their resilience in faith, but more were learned She was a skilled partera, when the egg stands, then she ness for literature, especially than that, they taught me how from three who, while not schooled or cer- prays over for the new name of protest literature, but also the women can face up to a powerful M women: my ma- tified, was sought after not only whoever she was baptizing. She skill and art of resistance to pa- conqueror’s belief system to as- ternal grand- by pregnant women but also by changed the names of my two triarchal domination. Dr. Feria sert the unique power of women mother whom I called Inang, my all other women who had diffi- sisters through the atang so that became a close friend especially in creating and sustaining the life Ninang Lourders, an Igorot culties with their bodies and had they would not be as sickly and during martial law when we of the individual and the com- woman, and Dr. Dolores Feria, problems with their reproductive recover from recurring illnesses were detained for about seven munity. my teacher in comparative liter- systems. She could heal young and fevers. months in Fort Bonifacio as both Women have a vast reser- ature at the University of the women who had dysmenorrhea, The women believed Inang of us became political detainees voir of knowledge and creativity Philippines. was an expert as a massage ther- had the power to heal their in- of Marcos’ martial law regime. in the reproductive process which My Inang, my maternal apist and could fix dislocated fertility or incapacity to bear Her first book, the Long Stag must be put into good use. Their grandmother, practically raised joints and inflamed skin. She children. Stories about her Party (1992) became a very use- wisdom, skills, and resourceful- “magic” abounded in our neigh- ful theoretical basis for my dis- ness seem to be underestimated borhood. Inang could also fix sertation, later published as a by many societies and in most the position of the child in the book, Sa Ngalan ng Ina: San- ethnic formations, these knowl- womb if this was balinsuek (in- daang Taon ng Tulang Femi- edge and skills, are being eroded verted) or suhi (feet first). In nista sa Pilipinas (1997) with an by overmedicalized institutions many of her services, when the English version, In the Name of and forms of healing and tech- baby’s feet came out first, she the Mother: One Hundred Years nology. These must be a way of would put the baby’s feet back of Philippine Feminist Poetry in harnessing the ever reliable and into the womb, then slowly turn Tagalog, English and Ilokano still relevant indigenous modes the baby around while labor was (UP Press, 2002). of healing from the heart and going on, so that the head would Dolores Feria was born hearth of ethnic communities in- come out first. Dorothy Stephens, an American cluding those here in Hawaii and I remember asking my from Marcellus, Washington but other parts of the U.S. Inang how she was able to do the changed her name to Dolores Dolores Feria, of course is things she was doing – that is, when she opted to marry Ro- another story but she is my own helping women get rid of their drigo Feria, an Ilokano and a perfect example of how one can illnesses, helping them give good friend of Carlos Bulosan. actually choose one’s ethnicity birth or even helping them get She became Filipina not only by and live comfortably with as- pregnant. My Inang said it was a marriage but by aligning herself tounding intellectual pride. I am gift from Apo Dios, a Mannaka- with the most progressive and using the stories of these three balin or God Almighty. Inang enlightened desires of the Fil- women in order to show how was a Protestant who belonged ipino people. She lived and died matters of sexuality and ethnic to the Seventh-day Adventist in the Philippines, and was identity are interrelated and Church and went to Sabbath known to have advocated should be approached as social every Saturday. thoughts and values “more Fil- issues together. My Ninang Lourdes is an ipino” than the ordinary Filipino. Is one’s sexuality, at the Igorot woman and a very devout Now what did I learn from same time, one’s ethnicity? The Catholic. She was my mother’s all three women? answer is yes, when we look at best friend and I remember days Despite their differing faiths, how sexuality can be negotiated when she and my mother would both my Ninang Lourdes and from specific social arrange- go to church together wearing my Inang apparently were able ments and seen not just as some those white CWL attires with to reconcile or blend their own form of biological “queerness,” blues sashes over their waists. ways of looking at the world, es- oddity or aberration but a neces- Ninang Lourdes hated hospitals pecially of the rite of birthing sary component of personal trait and doctors and she gave birth at with their colonialist introduced engendered by social and politi- home, always. And I remember religions. For Ninang Lourdes, cal exigencies. I will talk about that her days of giving birth be- to be Catholic and still revel in this in my succeeding article. came occasions for neighbor- the canao was perfectly all right. hood gatherings because she For Inang Onor, there was no Lilia Quindoza Santiago, presently would invite everyone into her problem in becoming a devout Assistant Professor of Ilokano at UH- Manoa has authored two trailblazing backyard to await her baby’s Protestant and practice faith books on Filipino women: “Sa Ngalan ng Ina: Sandaang Taon ng Tulang Feminista sa Pilipinas” (In the Name of the Mother, 100 Years of Philippine Feminist Poetry in Tagalog, English and Ilokano” (UP Press, 2002) and “Sexuality and the Filipina” (UP Press, 2007). Recently, she spoke on “Sexuality and Ethnicity: Issues From a Philippine Perspective” at a lecture co-sponsored by the UH Women’s Stud- ies Department and the Center For Philippine Studies as part of its Fall 2008 Colloquium Series. OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 7 IMMIGRATION GUIDE Palin vs. Obama Beauty Contest If McCain Disqualified Because Not

"Natural Born Citizen" born citizen". It passed, simply States. The suit was dismissed indicating it is "highly probable" By Atty. Emmanuel because Hollander did not have that Sen. McCain is one. Amer- Samonte Tipon "standing" to sue. More lawsuits ican citizens want certainty, not ow! What a were filed but were dismissed. probability, on this crucial issue. beauty contest The most recent action was Can't McCain's opponents get a it's going to be filed in California on August 11, lawyer well-versed in Federal between Sarah 2008 by Markham Robinson Procedure so that they can meet Palin and against John McCain, the Sec- the threshold issue of "stand- W Barack Obama retary of State of California ing"? Why not get Atty. Obama (L-R) Barack Obama, Sarah Palin, John McCain if John Mc- Debra Bowen, the Republican himself to file the suit? Cain is disqualified because he National Committee, the Re- United States." Sen. McCain is voting public prior to the elec- is not a "natural born citizen". publican Party of California, covered by this statute. tion. Once the election is over, (ATTY. TIPON has won all deporta- A Niagara of lawsuits has and others alleging that John they can be raised as objections tion cases he handled and obtained been filed to disqualify McCain. McCain is not a "natural born The Robinson Case’s when the electoral votes are approval of all visa petitions he filed. Conclusion He is from Laoag City. He has a Mas- Who are behind them? You citizen" of the United States and counted. The members of Con- ter of Laws degree from Yale Law know who. A San Francisco fed- is therefore ineligible to serve The challenge presented by gress are well qualified to adju- School and a Bachelor of Laws degree eral judge deplored their tactics as president. He asked the court Robinson is committed under dicate objections to allegedly from the University of the Philippines. saying that they are trying to de- to issue a preliminary injunction the Constitution to the electors unqualified candidates. Judicial He served as an Immigration Officer. feat McCain "through litigation and the legislative branch. review, if any, should occur He is co-author of “Immigration Law to stop McCain from continuing Service,” an 8-volume practice and rather than via the democratic with his candidacy. The Twelfth Amendment only after the electoral and con- procedure guide for immigration offi- process." So far, none has suc- On September 16, the court provides the manner in which gressional processes have run cers and lawyers. He specializes in im- ceeded. But his enemies will not refused and dismissed the case, the electors appointed by the their course. Robinson v. migration and criminal defense. Office stop, hoping a Democratic judge holding that Robinson did not states shall elect the president. A Bowen, No. C 08-03836 WHA, at 905 Umi St. corner N. King, Suite 201, Honolulu, HI 96819. Tel. (808) will disqualify McCain before have "standing" to bring the suit, statute, 3 U.S.C. 15, directs that U.S. District Court, Northern 847 1601. Fax (808) 847 1624. E- the elections. In which event, the because Robinson was not a can- Congress shall count the elec- District, California, Sept. 16, Mail: [email protected]. Website: Republicans would have to didate against McCain. The toral votes and hear objections to 2008, Judge William Alsup. www.ImmigrationServicesUSA.com. name a substitute - Sarah Palin. court indicated that it is "highly the vote. Listen to the most interesting and hu- The Twentieth Amendment COMMENT: Undoubt- morous radio program on Hawaii probable" that John McCain is a radio KNDI 1270 every Friday 7:30- Natural-born Citizen "natural born citizen." The court provides that if the president edly, Sen. McCain is a U.S. cit- 8:00 AM. This article is a general Requirement cited: elect shall have failed to qual- izen pursuant to statute. But is overview of the subject matter dis- The U.S. Constitution restricts ify, then the Vice President elect he a "natural born citizen" pur- cussed and is not intended as legal ad- the presidency to two classes of 14th Ammendment shall act as President until a suant to the Constitution? The vice for any specific person or situation Neither the writer nor pub- citizens. Article II, Section 1 The 14th Amendment to the President shall have qualified. Robinson case presented a lisher warrant the completeness or ac- provides: "No person except a U.S. Constitution ratified on July Arguments concerning qual- golden opportunity for the court curacy of the information provided natural born citizen, or a citizen 9, 1868, provides: "All persons ifications can be laid before the to define the phrase "natural herein at the time of publication.) of the United States, at the time born or naturalized in the United of the adoption of this Constitu- States and subject to the juris- tion, shall be eligible to the Of- diction thereof, are citizens of fice of President." the United States, and of the McCain might be consid- State wherein they reside." This ered old, but certainly he was provision does not apply to Sen. not a citizen of the United States McCain. at the time of the adoption of the Constitution on September 17, Statutory Provisions 1787. So, is he a "natural born on Citizenship citizen"? Public Law No. 73-250, 48 Statutes 797, enacted on May McCAIN Born in Panama 24, 1934, prescribes: "Any child Canal Zone hereafter born out of the limits John McCain was born at and jurisdiction of the United Coco Solo Naval Air Station in States, whose father or mother or the Panama Canal Zone on Au- both at the time of the birth of gust 29, 1936. His father, an of- such child is a citizen of the ficer in the U.S. Navy, was United States, is declared to be a stationed there. citizen of the United States." "Gotcha," exclaimed Mc- This was the law at the time of Cain's enemies, the Panama Sen. McCain's birth. Canal Zone is not part of the 8 U.S.C. 1403, enacted on United States. Therefore, Mc- June 27, 1952, provides: (a) Cain is not a "natural born citi- Any person born in the Canal zen" of the United States. Zone on or after February 26, 1904, and whether before or Law Suits after the effective date of this On March 14, 2008, Fred chapter, whose father or mother Hollander filed suit in New or both at the time of the birth Hampshire to disqualify Mc- of such person was or is a citi- Cain for not being a "natural zen of the United States, is de- born citizen" of the United clared to be a citizen of the 8 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 SOCIETY PAGE

Welcoming Committee for the Cavitenians and Associates of Hawaii Recognition Night. (L-R) Front: Manny Espiritu, Roland Halili, Fely Martinez, Susan Espiritu, Merly Martinez (Back): Gloria Nicolas, Linda Clamor, Nena Halili, Angel Legaspi, Romy and Liway Broas

Cavitenians and Associates of Hawaii Scholarship recepients with committee members during the Recognition Night held at the Pacific Beach Hotel. (L-R): Lydia Dayrit, Cora Legaspi, Jeribie Sarmiento, Sarah Espiritu, Kathleen Santos, Cairene Vida, Gerardo Sarmiento and Trini Arquero

Dr. Fernando Ona with Father Jack Healy at The Charlie Y. Sonido Md. Inc. Staff a PMAH picnic in Magic Island, Ala Moana at a recent party in Kaneohe Seated (L to R): Dr. Richard Kua and Larry Sera and Standing (L to R): Aurelia Sera, Dr. Avery Go, James Pagdilao and Dr. Ian Levy Chua enjoying the camaraderie during a luncheon picnic at Magic Island.

Kathy Adaoag and Dr. Tessie Bernales are all Dr. William Wong and wife Rita smiles for a great shot at a dinner reception in Kaneohe Dr. Jojie Waite with son and Dr. Elenita Alvarez and Dr. Gabino Baloy enjoying lunch at a picnic at Ala Moana Park

L-R: Dory Villafuerte, Imelda Joaquin, Doneliza, Dr. Fe Baria and Winners for Cavitenians Best Western Costume Contest pose with the judges. Alexi Joaquin at a gathering at Ala Moana Park (L-R): Alan and Apple Matsushima, Minnie Corpuz, Letty Tesoro-Saban, Danny Sarte, Vic Clamor, Tess Solis, Jo Farina and Marina Torio OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 9 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Canete Steps Down as CEO of Philippine School Hawaii Medical Center Names Lecture Series eadership of the na- “Collin Dang is one of tion’s largest physi- Hawaii’s best cardiovascular After UH Professor Lcian-owned hospital surgeons and an early sup- by Jovanie De La Cruz pines Award for Outstanding is passing from one promi- porter of the physician-owned Poetry in 1973. This book is nent local doctor to another. hospitals. I have no doubt he he De La Salle Univer- widely-recognized as the first Leading Honolulu surgeon will provide the vision and sity-Manila Filipino book of poems in Tagalog writ- Dr. Collin Dang is taking the leadership needed to take TDepartment named its ten by a Filipina. Since then, reigns as chief executive of- Hawaii Medical Center for- 3rd Lecture Series in Fil- she has garnered 17 Carlos ficer of Hawaii Medical ward,” added Dr. Canete. ipinology after Dr. Ruth Ely- Palanca Awards For Literature Center from Dr. Danelo Dr. Dang earned his un- nia S. Mabanglo, professor for poetry and playwriting, in- Canete. dergraduate and medical de- and coordinator of the Univer- cluding a Hall of Fame Award Dr. Canete led efforts to grees at Georgetown Dr. Danelo Canete sity of Hawaii-Manoa’s Fil- in 1996. The Hall of Fame bring together over 130 University. He conducted his creasing the reimbursement ipino and Philippine Literature Award is given only to writers Hawaii-based physicians to internship at Georgetown Uni- rate from insurance companies Program. who have won five first prizes purchase the two hospitals versity Hospital and D.C. Gen- and upgrading medical and IT The Filipinology lecture in this literary contest. now known as HMC East eral Hospital. Dr. Dang equipment at both campuses. series presents new and timely Mabanglo also won a Re- and HMC West in partner- completed residencies in gen- “Of particular note are the research, publications and co- public of the Philippines Cen- ship with Cardiovascular eral surgery and thoracic and stellar rankings Hawaii Med- curricular activities of junior tennial Literary Award for epic Hospitals of America LLC, a cardiovascular surgery at ical Center received in and tenured faculty members writing in 1998. Two of her leading U.S. hospital man- Sacramento Medical Center, HMSA’s most recent Hospital teaching Filipino at the De La books won the National Book agement company, in Janu- University of California- Quality and Service Recogni- Salle University system. It also Award—“Mga Liham ni ary 2007. As HMC’s Davis. He was most recently tion Program, in which HMC honors outstanding scholars Pinay” (Letters of Pinay) in founding CEO, Dr. Canete chief of cardiac surgery at East ranked second in large- and supporters of Filipino and 1990 and “Mesa Para sa Isa” oversaw leadership of both HMC East. He is also a clini- volume hospitals and HMC “Filipinology”— the study of (Table for One) in 2003. the Liliha and West Oahu cal assistant professor of sur- West ranked first in small-vol- Filipino society through the In 2006, the Manila City hospitals. gery at the University of ume hospitals. Dr. Canete will use of indigenous concepts government recognized her “After heading Hawaii Hawaii-Manoa’s John A. always hold a special place in and perspectives. outstanding contributions to Medical Center for nearly Burns School of Medicine and Hawaii Medical Center’s his- This year, the department Filipino literature by bestow- two years, I am stepping president of Cardiothoracic tory as its first ‘captain.’ bestowed the honor to Maban- ing her the “Araw ng Maynila down from my leadership Associates of Hawaii. Hawaii Medical Center glo—a Filipina poet in Taga- Patnubay ng Sining at Kali- duties to focus on my cardiac “Dr. Canete provided LLC is a partnership of CHA log, teacher, critic, translator nangan Tanging Parangal” patients,” said Dr. Canete. strong and steady leadership Hawaii, an affiliate of Cardio- and relentless Filipinologist (Manila Day Award for Out- Dr. Dang is assuming the during a very challenging time vascular Hospitals of America who supports excellence in the standing Leaders of Art and CEO position and will be for our institution,” said Dr. (CHA), a leading US hospital teaching of Filipino. Culture). supported by a strong man- Dang. “Under his watch, both management company, and the Her first book of poems, agement team composed of hospitals achieved several key over 130 Hawaii-based physi- “Supling: Mga Tula” (Child: A (Ed. note: Jovanie De La Cruz is the executive editor of Katipunan Mag- the current team and new re- goals, including reducing the cians who form Hawaii Physi- Collection of Poems), won a azine) cruitment. length of stay for patients, in- cian Group LLC. Cultural Center of the Philip-

OCTOBER IS FILIPINO-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH CALENDAR OF EVENTS OCTOBER IS FILIPINO-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH (2008) TIMELINE– Coordinated by:The Filipino-American Historical Society of Hawaii (FAHSOH) Contacts: Clem Bautista – Tel. 956-7348; Lyna Burian – Tel. 956-0867 Oct. 4 – 25 Oct. 12 Photo Exhibit: “Singgalot: the Ties that Bind” Talk Story with Pete Tagalog: Hawaii State Library Lobby “The 1970 Ota Camp Housing Struggle, A Suc- This Photo Exhibit allows the public to appre- cess Story” ciate the history and legacy of Filipino-Amer- Community leader Pete Tagalog recounts the icans, so that today’s generation is aware of Ota Camp struggle to retain their homes and their past contributions to their adopted coun- own the land that they are on. try. Hawaii’s Plantation Village Social Hall 4:00 – 6:00 pm Oct. 4 Light refreshments to follow. Photo Exhibit Opening Reception Entertainment by the Silangan Singers Oct. 17 Hawaii State Library Lobby Memorabilia Display: Capt. Stanley Sabihon, 11:00 am – 12:00 noon U.S. Army Air Corps Light refreshments in the Courtyard. First Filipino pilot of a B-17 during WWII. Wahiawa Library (More information to follow) Oct. 11 Panel Discussion: “Growing Up Filipino in Oct. 25 Hawaii” Poetry Reading: “Flippin’ on Poetry” Filipinos from various demographic back- Hawaii’s emerging Filipino-American poets grounds will discuss issues and challenges they will red from their works on Filipino history faced during their formative years in Hawaii. and pride. Hawaii State Library Reading Room Hawaii State Library Reading Room 2:00 – 4:00 pm 2:00 – 4:00 pm Light refreshments in the Courtyard. Light refreshments in the Courtyard 10 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII-FILIPINO NEWS Hawaii Medical Center Announces Filipino Community Layoffs Leaders Receive Junior

awaii Medical Center Chamber Intl Senatorship (HMC) announced last Award Filipino Junior Chamber of H week that it would begin Commerce and approved by a new round of staff reductions by Leeza Ritua the President of the Hawaii after appropriate notifications n September 13, 2008, Jaycees and the U.S. Junior have been made. Hospital offi- the Junior Chamber Chamber of Commerce. cials estimate the reduction at its O International (JCI) two hospitals in Liliha and Ewa Senatorship Award was pre- Roland Casamina will total approximately 150. sulted in fewer complications HMC filed for Chapter 11 sented to two outstanding indi- Casamina joined the HMC Chief Executive Officer and shortened the average pa- bankruptcy protection on Au- viduals—Roland Casamina Jaycees to improve his busi- Danelo Canete, M.D., said the tient stay by almost half, so gust 28, 2008, permitting its and Larry Ordonez. They were ness standing in the commu- staff reduction would take effect HMC needs fewer personnel to hospitals to continue operating recognized for their efforts at nity. He served as both officer within 60 days from the date of treat them. while the company reorganized JCI’s 2nd Trimester State Con- and director for the Oahu Fil- notification. “Based on national stan- and arranged for new financing. vention held at the Ala Moana ipino Jaycees. Casamina was “While this is a very diffi- dards, our staff is too large for An appropriately-sized staff Hotel. elected president of his chap- cult decision, it is necessary,” the number of patients in our will help reduce financial losses A Senatorship is the high- ter. As president, he directed Dr. Canete said. “Thanks to the hospitals,” he said. “We will so HMC can invest in advanced est honor that can be bestowed the establishment of the Miss efficiency of our operating still have sufficient staffing to technology and renovations. on a member or past member Sampaguita Scholarship Pag- model and substantially im- provide excellent patient care “We expect to emerge from of the Junior Chamber organi- eant and received the Out- proved patient care, we are able after the reduction.” Chapter 11 within a year as a zation and confers "lifetime standing Young Man of to treat patients more quickly According to national healthy institution that is finan- membership" in Junior Cham- America award by the U.S. and allow them to return their benchmarks, HMC is over- cially stable and medically-ex- ber International (JCI). Junior Chamber of Commerce. families sooner than before. staffed by up to 30 percent and cellent.” Dr. Canete said. The award recognizes in- This uses fewer beds while car- needs to make the required Hawaii Medical Center dividuals for their dedication Larry Ordonez ing for the same number of pa- changes to remain competitive. LLC is a partnership of CHA and service on the local, na- Larry Ordonez, was presi- tients, so we are overstaffed.” “We recognize this is a dif- Hawaii, an affiliate of Cardio- tional, or international level. dent of the Oahu Filipino Dr. Canete stressed the ficult time for affected employ- vascular Hospitals of America The JCI Senatorship provides Jaycees in 1983. During his pending reduction is not a re- ees. We will help them (CHA), a leading U.S. hospital such members with an endur- term, the Jaycees took part in flection of any shortcomings of transition, but we must do what management company, and the ing link to the organization and Perlas USA, a local television the part of HMC’s employees. is necessary to ensure HMC can over 130 Hawaii-based physi- its members worldwide. Both show that showcased Fil- Rather, improved hospital oper- continue to serve our commu- cians who form Hawaii Physi- Casamina and Ordonez were ipinos’ talents in the perform- ations and care at HMC have re- nity,” Dr. Canete said. cian Group LLC. nominated by the Honolulu ing arts. OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 11 PHILIPPINE NEWS

up,” Andaya said. ‘Economic Prospects Now Better for RP’ Recto said exports would be hit as the US accounts for 17 per- by Marvin Sy “Our foreign debt is going he said. cent of the country’s exports. he Philippines has better down. We can finance our own He said infrastructure spend- “What the government can prospects for survival development. In the medium ing will increase by 20 percent do is help the private sector by T with the US Senate’s re- term, we are in a better position,” next year, and agriculture by a building infrastructure, by help- sounding approval of a sweet- Recto said. whopping 56 percent. ing them open up markets such ened $700-billion Wall Street “To cope with crisis, we will He said for infrastructure as China,” Recto said. rescue plan, the Arroyo adminis- continue to improve debt-to-GDP alone, the government has a pub- Recto pointed out that the tration’s economic managers ratio. We have brighter growth lic sector “infrastructure war US used to take up 35 percent of said yesterday. prospects ahead,” he said. chest” of P230 billion next year. the country’s total exports. “There will be a happy He said the country remains Of this amount, P147.5 billion The Arroyo administration Christmas and a merry new on track to meet the United Na- will be spent by the national gov- has emphasized the need to in- year,” Socioeconomic Planning tions’ Millennium Development ernment, P32.1 billion by gov- crease trade with China, which is NEDA’s Ralph Recto Secretary Ralph Recto said at a Goals of reducing poverty inci- ernment-owned and controlled one of the fastest growing press conference in Malacañang. “Slowdown will allow busi- dence by half by 2015. corporations, and P50 billion by economies in the world and is But he said the lower ness to take place but in reces- He said the government has local governments. very close to the Philippines ge- growth figures for this year and sion, there is contraction and downscaled its GDP targets to 4.4 The national government’s ographically. in 2009 will remain despite the people will be adversely af- percent to 4.9 percent this year 2009 infrastructure budget is Apart from exports, Recto good news from the US. fected, emerging economies will and to 4.1 to 5.1 percent next 20.7 percent higher than this noted that tourism is another sec- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas be adversely affected,” Teves year, which he described as year’s P122.2 billion. tor that has huge potential for (BSP) Deputy Governor Nestor said. “more realistic, credible, trans- “The budget is funneled to a growth, particularly from mar- Espenilla said the approval of “In a slowdown, my neigh- parent.” verifiable spending menu called kets such as China. the bailout would lessen the fall- bor is out of a job, but if it’s re- “It’s good to be conserva- HEARTS, for Health, Education, “To me the real key is gov- out of the global economic cession, I get unemployed, so tive. If we could go faster, the Agriculture, Roads, Technology ernment spending in infrastruc- crunch on the Philippines and we have to avoid recession at all better,” Recto said. “As part of and Tourism, Shelter and Secu- ture, in agriculture to temper other developing countries. costs,” he said. the mandate of risk management rity,” he said. inflation,” Recto said. “This (bailout approval) is “We need your help to com- and risk aversion, it’s better to be “The challenge is to have “So the challenge is to re- going to be a positive factor in municate to the public what is credible,” he said. these agencies spend the money duce inflation and spend for sus- limiting fallout as a result of happening. We are focusing on “There is a need to down- they have in the first few months. tainable growth in the future and continuing financial turmoil in medium case scenario, which scale targets this year. We feel There had been flat growth in in- that’s where the importance of the US,” Espenilla said in the we are all prepared for,” he said there will be a slowdown in US, frastructure spending… but in infrastructure and increasing same news briefing. at the briefing. where they already lost about June, July, August we had an in- agricultural productivity come Espenilla said the local Recto said the Philippines’ 800,000 jobs in the past several crease so we just had to keep it in,” Recto said. (www.philstar.com) banks are “strong in their own macroeconomic fundamentals months,” he pointed out. right and we have no problem are better than those of the US it- Budget Secretary Rolando down the road.” self “as far as the country’s debt- Andaya Jr., for his part, said “The bailout will improve to-Gross Domestic Product ratio there was no need to revise the chances of recession not taking is concerned.” proposed P1.4-trillion national place. It does not mean it’s no The US has a negative sav- budget as it was designed to help longer there, but we are talking ings rate while the Philippines the country survive a global eco- of probability,” Finance Secre- has a positive savings rate, he nomic slowdown. tary Margarito Teves said. said. “The solution is spending,” Lawmakers Oppose New Taxes on centers nationwide. Mobile Phone Users Nograles said collecting P20 by Aurea Calica education and health programs centavos per text message would of the government. earn the health and education de- he proposal to allocate Nograles said Gordon’s partments no less than P340 mil- half of the telecommuni- move was a good sign to encour- lion per day based on estimates Tcation companies’ rev- age people to practice “text for a that l.7 to 1.9 billion text mes- enues from text messages to cause.” sages were sent every day in the education and health programs has “There will be no additional country. gained support from the House of cost on texting. Based on our es- Teves also welcomed the Representatives and the Depart- timates, our telcos still rake in a proposal to collect part of ment of Finance, but lawmakers lot a profit at a cost of 50 cen- telecommunications companies’ are opposed to any new taxes. tavos per text. So instead of cut- text messaging revenues and Sen. Richard Gordon clari- ting down on the cost of texting, allot it for health and education, fied yesterday there would be no telcos should allocate at least 20 saying the government needs new taxes imposed on mobile percent of their profit to a trust more funds for social services. telephone users. fund for education and health “If the new taxes can gener- Sen. Panfilo Lacson said he care. This way, our texters will ate revenues, we would appreci- would not support any new tax be texting for a worthy cause,” ate it,” Teves said. on text messages, saying that the Nograles said. Gordon’s proposed measure, government should instead im- Nograles also proposed the Senate Bill No. 2402 or the prove its tax collection system. creation of a board composed of Health and Education Accelera- Gordon called on the more telecommunications heads and tion Program (HEAP), states the than 60 million mobile phone the secretaries of the health and funds needed for the country’s subscribers to back his text in- education departments that education and health care re- come measure as Speaker Pros- would manage the “exclusive quirements will be taken from pero Nograles and Finance trust fund” to ensure that it would the estimated two billion local Secretary Margarito Teves said be spent only on the upgrading of text messages sent daily. the proposal would help fund schools, hospitals, and health (www.philstar.com) 12 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 MAINLAND NEWS US Senate OKs Bailout Bill

A busy day in Wall Street ashington—After one spec- panies to devalue assets on their balance tacular failure, the $700-billion sheets to reflect the price they can get on W financial industry bailout found the market. a second life Wednesday, winning lopsided There were worries, though, that the passage in the Senate and gaining ground tax breaks would cause some conservative in the House, where Republican opposition leaning Democrats who voted for the res- softened. cue Monday to abandon it because it would Senators loaded the economic rescue swell the federal deficit. bill with tax breaks and sweeteners de- “I’m concerned about that,” said Rep. signed to make the legislation more palat- Steny Hoyer, a Democrat and the majority able to voters before passing it by a wide leader. margin, 74-25, a month before the presi- Raising the deposit insurance limit – dential and congressional elections. along with the SEC’s accounting change – In the House, leaders were working helped House Republicans claim credit for feverishly to convert enough opponents of some substantive changes. the bill to push it through by today, just And with constituent feedback chang- days after lawmakers there stunningly re- ing dramatically since Monday’s shocking jected an earlier version and sent markets House defeat and the corresponding mar- plunging around the globe. ket plunge, lawmakers’ comfort level with The measure did not cause the same the package increased markedly. uproar in the Senate, where both parties’ Arizona Rep. John Shadegg, who presidential candidates, Republican John voted “no” on Monday, said he was lean- McCain and Democrat Barack Obama, ing toward switching, and Ohio Rep. Steve made rare appearances to cast votes in favor LaTourette said he was “getting there.” of the legislation, as did Obama’s running Several others were weighing a flip, said mate, Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware. Republican officials who spoke on condi- President George W. Bush issued a tion of anonymity because the lawmakers statement praising the Senate’s move. With had not yet announced how they would the revisions, Bush said, “I believe mem- vote. bers of both parties in the House can sup- As revised by the Senate, the package port this legislation. The American people extends several tax breaks popular with expect and our economy demands that the businesses. It would keep the alternative House pass this good bill this week and minimum tax from hitting 20 million mid- send it to my desk.” dle-income Americans and provide $8 bil- The rescue package lets the govern- lion in tax relief for those hit by natural ment spend billions of dollars to buy bad disasters in the Midwest, Texas and mortgage-related securities and other de- Louisiana. valued assets held by troubled financial in- Leaders in both parties, as well as pri- stitutions. If successful, advocates say, that vate economic chiefs everywhere, said would allow frozen credit to begin flowing Congress must quickly approve some ver- again and prevent a deep recession. sion of the bailout measure to start loans Even as the Senate voted, House lead- flowing and stave off a potential national ers were hunting for the 12 votes they economic disaster. would need to turn around Monday’s 228- “This is what we need to do right now 205 defeat. to prevent the possibility of a crisis turning They were especially targeting the 133 into a catastrophe,” Obama said on the Sen- Republicans who voted “no.” ate floor. Their opposition appeared to be easing In Missouri, before flying to Washing- after the Senate added $110 billion in tax ton to vote, McCain said, “If we fail to act, breaks for businesses and the middle class, the gears of our economy will grind to a plus a provision to raise, from $100,000 to halt.” $250,000, the cap on federal deposit insur- Critics on the right and left assailed the ance. rescue plan, which has been panned by They were also cheering a decision their constituents as a giveaway for Wall Tuesday by the Securities and Exchange Street, and has little obvious direct benefit Commission to ease rules that force com- for ordinary Americans. (AP) OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 13 LEGAL NOTES Changing Non-Immigrant Status ted before the current status ex- been fulfilled. In the case of a still be granted, provided that tent, the USCIS follows a so- pires as indicated on the I-94, B-2 tourist, it means that the applicant can show that called 30/60 day rule. This unless there are extraordinary his/her original purpose was to there is no preconceived intent means that the alien is pre- circumstances beyond his/her just visit and tour the U.S. for a to change the status upon ar- sumed to have a preconceived control that prevented the short period of time and not to rival in the U.S. This can be intent if less than 30 days By Reuben S. Seguritan timely filing. And he/she must stay indefinitely for another shown by a change of plans or elapsed between his/her arrival be eligible for the requested purpose such as to work or to circumstances after the original in the U.S. and the filing of the non-immigrant classification. study. purpose of the visit has been change of status. If the appli- may acquire an- When adjudicating a Some visitors come to the fulfilled. cation is filed between 30 and other non-immi- change of status, the United U.S. as tourists because in some In such a case, it is useful 60 days, the presumption no grant status States Citizenship and Immi- U.S. embassies abroad, this is for the applicant to execute an longer exists but a finding of A without leaving gration Services (USCIS) the most expeditious way to get affidavit explaining such misrepresentation may still be the U.S. This is closely looks into the existence in. However, when the intent is change of circumstances. The issued. If 60 days elapsed, the known as change of non-immi- of a preconceived intent of the to come to the U.S. to visit var- applicant also needs to provide alien is relatively safe. grant status. The most com- applicant. Is the applicant in- ious schools and colleges in proof of financial ability to Since all non-immigrants mon example is the case of a tending to merely prolong order to study in the U.S., support his/her extended stay are presumed intending immi- tourist who wants to study (F- his/her stay? Did the applicant he/she should inform the con- under the new status, ties to the grants, except for H-1 and L-1, 1) or work (H-1B) in the U.S. have another purpose when sular officer that he/she is an home country, and other rele- it is important that all the fac- During the pendency of the he/she initially applied for a “intending student” so that a no- vant information such as activ- tors and circumstances leading application for change of sta- visa, thus circumventing the tation can be made as a “B-2 ities undertaken since arriving to a change of status are dis- tus, he/she may remain in the visa processing rules of the prospective student”. This will in the U.S. cussed with counsel to mini- U.S. even if the application is U.S. embassy or consulate? prevent a denial of the change The alien’s activities since mize possible problems. not adjudicated before the last The applicant has the bur- of status from B-2 to F-1 when his/her admission will also be period of his/her authorized den of proving to the USCIS the applicant finally decides to looked into by the USCIS in stay. that his/her intent to acquire the enroll and study in the U.S. deciding whether to grant a REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has been There are certain important new status occurred only after If the tourist did not dis- change of status. practicing law for over 30 years. For further information, you may call him at points to note before filing the the purpose for the original sta- close his/her intent to visit In determining whether the (212) 695 5281 or log on to his website application. It must be submit- tus/classification has already schools, a change of status may alien had a preconceived in- at www.seguritan.com EMPLOYMENT Workplace Rights Part 2

teed by employment or wage Do I have a right to lunch you are at risk of insubordina- This article is for informational pur- and hour law. Wages, merit in- breaks or meal periods and tion. poses only, is not intended as legal ad- creases, and other pay issues coffee breaks or rest peri- If you believe that your vice and reflects only the opinions of the author on general employment is- are freely bargained for be- ods? legal rights may have been vi- sues. MICHELLE ALARCON is a tween the parties so long the Thank your Hawaii em- olated by your employer, talk graduate of Loyola Law School in Los By Michelle Alarcon, Esq employer follow the minimum ployer if they give you these to them first. If this fails, you Angeles and her firm, the Law Office wage, overtime, child labor, and breaks with pay. Under fed- may seek external help from of Michelle Alarcon, LLLC, focuses on mployees have the anti-discrimination laws. agencies such as the Hawaii immigration law and employment law. eral law, your employer does She is also a professor at Hawaii Pa- right to be free not have to provide lunch or Civil Rights Commission. cific University teaching employment from discrimina- Do I have a right to receive coffee breaks, and if they do, You may file a complaint with and business law. Visit her website at tion, a safe work- commissions, bonus, pen- they do not have to pay you or without a lawyer. www.alarconlawoffice.com. place, to take sion, vacation and holiday for it. Only 21 states provide E leave to care for meal period requirements, and your own or a pay? If you have "earned" 7 states also have rest period family member's serious requirements. Like meal peri- health condition, right to these, then your employer is obligated to honor the incen- ods, the federal government unionize, and the right to pri- does not require coffee breaks. vacy. Beyond these, some of tives promised. However, un- less you have a contract However, short breaks be- the most common employ- tween 5-10 minutes must be ment questions include: specifying otherwise, future incentives can be revised or paid. taken away at the employer's My boss asks me to do Do I have a right to keep my something that is outside of job? option. Incentives are not mandated by law. The same is my job description. Can I re- In an employment-at-will true for vacation, sick days, fuse to do it without risking state such as Hawaii, most pri- and holidays. my job? vate employers can fire you Employers have the right anytime with or without cause to expect fair work for fair or reason, unless you have an Do I have a right to medical pay and insubordination is al- employment contract or a insurance coverage for me ways one ground for termina- labor contract, or if the reason and my family? tion. You may refuse your is motivated by any of the pro- Hawaii remains to be the manager's request if it is un- tected categories. . only state to mandate em- reasonable and has no solid I have been with my ployer provided medical insur- business needs, such as per- company for 20 years. Do I ance to employees who work sonal errands, or if there is have the right to a pay in- at least 20 hours for four con- real hardship on your part. crease and job promotion secutive weeks, but not for However, if you refuse a job that I deserve? your dependents. Dependent related task because you are Maybe, but pay increases coverage is an optional benefit not flexible to do things out- and promotions are not guaran- by employers in all 50 states. side of your job description, 14 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008 FAMILY CORNER sert a wooden chopstick into the sion or playing video games re- banana before freezing to serve sults in less time spent in physi- Way To Grow! as a handle.) cal activity. Here are a few Building Healthy Habits sible for the kind of food that is Fruity Pops: Fill small paper activities your child may enjoy: Eating well. Your young offered and where and when it is cups with fruit juice. Freeze and • Dancing to music child needs nutritious foods to served to your child. It’s your serve. (Variation: When the • Riding a tricycle or bicycle build a healthy, strong body; to child’s responsibility to decide juice is partially frozen, insert a • Playing catch with balls or protect his body from disease and whether to eat and how much to wooden chopstick or plastic bean bags By Grace F. Fong injury; and to supply him with eat. Forcing a “thin” child to eat spoon to serve as a handle. • Digging in the sand enough energy to grow, play, and more or withholding food from a When ready to eat, run some cold • Swimming ealthy habits learn. Just as children’s growth “chubby” child is a “no-win” sit- water over the paper cup to • Playing tag learned as a young rates differ, so do their eating uation. It causes both the child loosen the frozen treat.) • Swinging child can last a life- habits. Some eat more and grow and parent to become frustrated Fruit Freezes: Slice different • Jumping rope or jumping in time. Teach your faster than others. Children eat and unhappy. This may harm a fruits such as fresh bananas, a pile of leaves child to eat well, more on some days and less on child’s growth and development pineapple, mango, apples, • Walking around the neigh- H play well, and live other days. Don’t worry too and may lead to unhealthy eating grapes, or strawberries. Place borhood with you. well. This is a much if your child skips a meal habits and behaviors. Help your fruit pieces on a cookie sheet, flat For more information about great gift you can give that will once in a while. The amount of child learn healthy food habits shallow pan, or on foil and freeze healthy choices, check out the help him to grow into a healthy food he eats depends on his body by: overnight. Remove fruit pieces following websites: adult. size, level of activity, mood, • Providing lots of healthy and in store in an air-tight plastic http://www.ctahr.hawaii.edu/sit growth rate, and metabolic rate foods bag in the freezer. Serve as a e/extprograms.aspx (Go to What Affects Growth? (how fast his body uses the en- • Setting a good example by cool, refreshing snack. the Food and Healthy Liv- Children grow at different ergy he gets from food). eating regular meals and Being active. A child’s ing section for links to var- rates, and many things affect It’s important to give your making healthy food choices growth is also affected by his ious local resources. their growth, including genetics, child foods that help him to grow for your family physical activity. Everyone needs http://www.MyPyramid.gov nutrition, health, and fitness. and keep him healthy. Your • Serving regular, well-bal- physical activity and exercise to http://www.Nutrition.gov Genetics determine the traits that anced meals help prevent and control obesity. child’s energy needs are high but * “Health care provider” means a person gets from his biological his stomach is smaller than an • Making mealtimes pleasant Regular exercise burns off excess any health professional that you and parents and is the reason people adult’s. He probably will need to • Involving your child in meal calories, positively influences ap- your child visit, such as your child’s from the same family tend to eat small, healthy meals often. preparation, like spreading petite and eating, and develops doctor, nurse-practitioner, medical as- have similar physical features, Make sure all meals and snacks jam on bread or setting the muscle tone. Encourage your sistant, clinic staff, etc. including body shape and size. provide needed calories and nu- table. child, even a young baby, to This article is adapted from the Nutrition and physical activity move around. Tune into exercise. Family Resource Kit produced by the trients by giving him a variety of Here are three easy and nu- University of Hawaii Center on the also influence a child’s growth. foods. If your child eats too tritious snacks you can prepare As a family, plan recreation ac- Family. Serious illnesses, not common many high calorie foods (“junk” with your child: tivities and adopt energy-burning colds and fevers, can sometimes foods), he may gain too much Banana Crunch: Roll a habits, like taking the stairs in- Grace Fong is a professor in Family affect a child’s growth. If your weight. If he doesn’t eat enough peeled banana in peanut butter or stead of the elevator or parking Resources in the Department of Family child is often sick, consult your the car farther away and walking and Consumer Sciences. Sylvia Yuen calories and nutrients, he may not yogurt. Roll the coated banana is the Director of the Center on the health care provider*. The doc- grow up as healthy as he could in crushed cereal, wrap in plastic the extra distance. Encourage Family in the College of Tropical Agri- tor may recommend a special be. wrap or waxed paper, freeze until your child to be active. Spending culture and Human Resources at the diet or other treatments. As a parent, you are respon- solid, and serve. (Variation: In- too much time watching televi- University of Hawaii at Manoa. VIEW FROM THE EDGE

when the other side of town don't let a $600-ticket for Josh and otherwise. But the new up- Two Manilas keeps up with its ostentatious Groban's concert flop. In full scale neighborhood's level of By Carlos Cadiz, M.D. show of wealth. While the upper fashionable force, they came. At isolation from the rest of the it will be the new epicenter of classes contemplate on what the lower end of the spectrum, population is such that today's just came back from the country's economic power new European cars to purchase however, that $600 could have upper class Filipino children will almost a month of elite. In an astounding kind of and which exotic foreign desti- been their passport for a domes- grow up believing that there's visit in Manila. It has way, the Fort will embody the nations they will tour the next tic helper's job somewhere in just his family, all the rest are the been one of my future of one side of the city, and time, the poor are just scram- Hong Kong. Something that help. And the poor Filipino chil- I longest vacations in of the country for that matter. bling for what's left of their could ultimately alleviate them dren might mistakenly think that the city of my birth The massively luxurious condo- richer countrymen's scrap. Lit- from poverty. Although this those upper class children who since I moved to the US. In a minium complexes being built erally. Housemaid's salaries supposed new career develop- attend Ateneo or Poveda are for- way, it still was eye opening for there will put some of the ameni- have not risen since our oldest ment would still not buy them a eigners. They speak a different me, quite surprising for some- ties offered here in the US to former helper retired from serv- new condo at the other side of brand of the language and that one who thought i knew the city shame. And there’s no shortage ice 12 years ago, an average of town, but at least there would be their subculture has evolved and well enough. Many of the of buyers either. $50 a month. Half the amount more protein on their diet. continues to evolve distinctly changes sweeping the metropo- But just outside of these that someone dining in The I've always been aware from the rest of the population. lis are so visible, yet the same mega developments, the shanty- Fort's many fine restaurants though that the social divide in No doubt, Manila is indeed problems that plagued it for towns are just as explosive. Mile would at least spend. A family this city, and in the country to a growing. It's size, it's population decades are still there and even after mile of these decrepit, ut- driver's salary has also stayed lesser extent, has always been and consequently its economic became worse in many respects. terly third-world reminders of where it has been since the 2nd there. Getting out of poverty is strength is bolstered by a resur- First, the mushrooming of the country's poverty spread rap- EDSA Revolution, an average very difficult in a country where gent middle and upper class. new areas of development in the idly like ants in a city that can no of $200 across the country. just getting into a university This growth's ability to trickle Fort Bonifacio and Ortigas areas longer cope with its almost 13 Therefore, the higher end of would, more often than not, en- down to the masses hasn't hap- are mind-boggling. Tens of new million population. They com- the spectrum seems to be con- tail carrying a good last name. pened, however. It has left the spanking, steel and glass sky- pete with the skyscrapers in pro- tent on the economic direction Or a nice bank book. But my poor majority population even scrapers are making their pres- viding a picture of the nation's the country is taking. This last visit was quite startling. The more destitute than ever before. ence felt in a city that I really state of development. The poor minute but powerful sector is wall between the social classes Whether the two Manilas will thought was lagging far behind grow not in economic terms, but carrying on its task of carving its has risen so high that the only ever come together again in eco- in the Asian region. The Fort as they just grow as this massive own version of the country. point of contact between the two nomic terms, I am not opti- it is known today is the resurgent number of hungry, neglected and Modern, cosmopolitan, fashion- kinds of Filipinos is through mistic. new enclave of the financial ultimately angry group of peo- able and in its own way, robustly employment. One being em- In the meantime, let the center. Side by side with Makati, ple. And they won't be as happy Filipino. They are the ones who ployed by the other, domestic good times roll. OCTOBER 4, 2008 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE 15 CLASSIFIED ADS BUSINESS DIRECTORY NEED EXPERIENCED BABY SITTER NEED EXPERIENCED BABY SITTER 2 Houses, 3/1, 2/1, Kalihi Vly for infant in my Ewa Beach home. Full basement, $609000(847-6613) 4 days/week. Call 554-7444 IN-HOME CARE SERVICES NEED SALESPERSON Private caregivers save your money! w/ Real Estate, Mortgage, Insurance Back- Let us provide YOU or your loved ones personal ground for Mortgage Reduction Sales. care in your own home. Salary + Comm. Call: 227-7181 Contact Lynn at Aloha Home Care Services JAPANESE RESTAURANT OJIYA IS LOOK- Phone 271-0885 ING FOR KITCHEN HELPER, DISHWASHER I NEED HELP OR BUSBOY Elder care/domestic, in exchange for room in my Call (808) 942-3838 Ewa home.Must be reliable /female. JEWELRY COMPANY Please contact Lynn at 271-0885 BUYING GOLD AND OLD JEWELRY HANDIRIDE HAWAII TRANSPORTATION, Top dollar for gold, old jewelry and Rolex looking for a full time Driver, must be pleasant watches. Call: 225-7637 and reliable. Call 486-7433 SUPER CLEAN Residential and HELP WANTED Commercial NOODLE MAKER. PART- TIME Part time cleaners on call: $10/hr Health Benefits. Island Noodle Call 741-4244 or e-mail [email protected] Apply in Person at 841-8664 LIVE ASIAN CATFISH. BUY DIRECT FROM OUR FARM & SAVE! COMMUNITY $6/lb. Avail year round, min. 20 lbs. Call 382- 4044 or 382-8674 CALENDAR NOVEMBER 2, 2008 NON-MEDICAL CAREGIVERS WANTED Aloha Medical Mission, 25th Anniversary ● In-house training program for non-certified Hilton Hawaiian Village, Tapa Ballroom ● candidates. CNA & HHA welcomed. 5:00 PM ● Please RSVP by October 24 Part time and full time positions available. Call (808) 847-3400 Contact: Lynn at Aloha Home Care Services Phone: 271-0885

ATTENTION: FILIPINO ORGANIZATIONS & NON-PROFITS Have your Community Event Published in our Calendar! Fax Your Press Release to 678-1829 or e-mail it [email protected] 16 HAWAII FILIPINO CHRONICLE OCTOBER 4, 2008