April 15, 2013

Vol. XXII, No. 11

Online: www. manilamail.us

April 15, 2013

Bulosans poem theme of Asian Heritage Month

For the 2013 Asian American and Pacic Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month in May, the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacic Islanders announced that the theme of this years observance is I Want the Wide American Earth. The Smithsonians Asian Pacic American Center selected it to highlight the poem by acclaimed Filipino American writer Carlos Bulosan. This years AAPI Heritage Month celebrates the contributions of millions of AAPIs to the American story and reminds us of the unique and emerging challenges facing AAPIs as they continue to embrace the American dream. Like Bulosans poem, the AAPI community is aspirational, unwavering in its belief in the promise of America for all. As Bulosan so eloquently writes: Before the brave, before the proud builders and workers, I say I want the wide American earth For all the free. I want the wide American earth for my people. I want my beautiful land. I want it with my rippling strength and tenderness Of love and light and truth For all the free.

Carlos Bulosan.

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WASHINGTON D.C. Hundreds of Filipino and Asian Americans joined the massive demonstration in front of Capitol Hill April 10 to demand retention of family-based visas and quick passage of an immigration reform bill. Asian and Filipino Americans joined the demonstration to urge the retention of the familybased visas in the bill that is now being deliberated in Congress. TV stations estimated the predominantly Hispanic crowd at more than 70,000. Simultaneous demonstrations have been held in California, New York, Georgia and other cities. FilAms proudly carry the Philippine ag at the rally (Photo by M.C. Branigin).

Foreign Sec. Albert del Rosario

Manila hits China anew

MANILA - Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario used the launching of the 12-day Balikatan manoeuvres to accuse China of destabilising the region with aggressive and illegal actions in the South China Sea. He said Chinas excessive

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PH duns US $1.4-M for damages to reefs

MANILA - The Philippines will ask the United States to pay P58 million ($1.4 million) in compensation for damage caused by a US minesweeper to the Tubbataha Reef, the manager of the protected reef said. The amount is based on studies by Philippine agencies, including the coast guard, that found the USS Guardian damaged at least 2,345 square meters (25,240 square feet) of the reef, said park superintendent Angelique Songco. Two weeks after the salvage of the US ship, a Chinese shing vessel ran aground also at the World Heritage Site-listed Tubbataha Reef. The 12 Chinese shermen, including what Philippine navy ofcials said were Chinese intelligence ofcers, were arrested. They reportedly offered $2500 to the arresting ofcers to release them. Philippine Secretary of For-

Presidential hug for Jessica

OAVs start mid-term polls

MANILA - The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) has urged more than 988,384 registered Filipino voters overseas to exercise their right and participate in the overseas absentee voting (OAV) for the mid-term Philippine elections that started Saturday April 13 and ends May 13, 2013. They will be joining some 20 million voters in the Philippines who will cast their ballots on

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President Obama gives Filam singer Jessica Sanchez a hug after she sang the US national anthem opening the White House Easter Egg Roll April. 2. Looking on are First Lady Michelle, children and others.

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Kerry backs arbitration P4

Pinay transgender ghts P6

Teach for Philippines P8

WSF in Palawan P10

Viloria loses title P12

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The Washington D.C.-based US Medicare Philippines advocates are continuing to push for the passage of a law by the US Congress to allow Americans by the Commission on Filipinos Overseas in Manila late in February, 2013. Our goal is to promote and expand the current policy of burse, to guarantee payments and to partner with Philippine hospitals for eligible Medicare patients visiting there. One of the topics during the Diaspora summit was Medicare portability -- a favorite topic among Americans and Filipino Americans who plan and hope to retire in the Philippines. Currently, Medicare prohibits coverage for Americans residing, retiring or traveling outside of the US. And the cost per beneciary over the years has risen --signicantly doubling, from an average of $6,000 in 2005 to $12,000 per beneciary in 2010. The nearly half-million

April 15, 2013

USMPH presses drive for Medicare portability

retired Americans living overseas and the millions more who travel extensively abroad must either go without care until they return to the United States or pay out-of-pocket for the care they need, wrote Matthew J. Downs, founder and president of the Center for Medicare Portability, based in Washington, D.C. We see this as a fundamentally unfair situation for retired Americans who have paid into Medicare their entire working lives. This restriction on Medicare coverage is also unfair to American taxpayers because it ignores the potentially huge cost savings to Medicare offered by lower-cost healthcare options abroad, added Downs. But the US Congress will have to rst amend the Medicare law to allow Americans to use their benets in case they get sick abroad where medical care is cheaper. While the system will save money, the main stumbling block is how to manage medical reimbursements. Previous cases of fraud allegedly committed by doctors in claiming reimbursements for medical care for American war veterans living in the Philippines have cast some doubts about the system.

US Medicare Philippines ofcers meet with Manila hospital ofcials. Among those in photo are Daisy Tucay, Dr. Bambi Lamoglia, Rodel Rodis and Eric Lachica. and Filipino American retiring in the Philippines to avail of their Medicare benets. These advocates have also expanded their base in Manila by renewing partnerships and alliances with Philippine health ofcials and local accredited hospitals when they attended the Diaspora summit sponsored temporary emergency/urgent care coverage in the Philippines under the Medicare Advantage or Part C plans of major US health insurance companies, said Eric Lachica, organizer and incorporator of US Medicare PH. He said the groups plan is to encourage US health insurance companies to directly reim-

April 15, 2013

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ans mental condition to their attorney when she signed the with exploiting the elderly womans now-deceased sister, the Attorneys Ofce said. Elderly abuse is a serious problem in this community and it will become even more serious as the population ages, said Richard Sherman, a prosecutor in ofces Elderly Exploitation Unit. We will continue to aggressively prosecute elderly exploitation in our community to protect our seniors.

Pinoy convicted for eecing elderly of $10-M

FLORIDA - Decades ago, a savvy woman bought stock in a little company called Apple. That move, plus some skillful margin trading, made her a millionaire. Now, age 94 and suffering severe dementia, she has nothing duped, say authorities, by a pair of South Florida con artists into signing over her $10 million estate and disinheriting her family. Cynthia Franke and Tyrone Javellana, of Hollywood, were convicted March 26 of nancial exploitation of an elderly person, a rst-degree felony that could result in up to 30 years in prison. Sentencing is set for April 10. The defendants, fully aware of her mental condition, knew that the victim lacked the ability to consent at the time she signed the ocuments, said Ron Ishoy, a spokesperson for the State Attorneys Ofce of Broward County. The victim thought it was 1990, did not remember her moms name, could not draw the face of a clock, could not tell an APS (Adult Protective Services) investigator what she had for breakfast, lunch or dinner, Ishoy told the Daily News. She could not name all of her siblings, she did not know the value of a dime or a nickel, she could not recall if she had a hysterectomy, and she did not

Cynthia Franke and Tyrone Javellana know where her sons lived. Franke and Javellana, a stockbroker and nancial planner, respectively, had a business and personal relationship with the victim that spanned 30 years. However, the victim never gave the defendants anything until she began showing signs of dementia, said Ishoy. Neither Franke nor Javellana disclosed the elderly womamendment that would leave everything to them rather than the victims family Ishoy explained. Adult Protective Services launched an investigation after someone submitted an anonymous tip to the groups hotline. Within 24 hours of a complaint, APS sends out an investigator to follow up, Ishoy explained. Javellana is also charged

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WASHINGTON D.C. - US Secretary of State John Kerry says the Philippines decision to elevate the conicting claims in the West Philippine Sea to the United Nations arbitral court has the full support of the United States. He gave this assurance when he met with Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario to underscore the common history and shared values between the Philippines and the United States at the State Department on April 2. It was their rst meeting since Kerry assumed his post as sectary of state. Kerry said the case lodged by the Philippines through the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) was a step in the right direction. China, however, has rejected the Philippine move. to settle the disputes peacefully and in accordance with the rule of law. Del Rosario said he also updated Kerry on our arbitration initiative. I emphasized its importance to the future stability of our region in particular and to the future efcacy of international law in general. We agreed that as strategic partners, it is important for both our nations to further deepen our relations on all levels. We agreed that our long shared history and profound common values serve as a rm basis for this, Secretary Del Rosario said after his meeting with his American counterpart at the Department of State here this morning. With Secretary Del Rosario during provocation is an important part of this cooperation. In this context, we discussed our joint efforts to build the capacity of the Philippines to defend its territory and people. We also exchanged views on the implementation of our agreed policy of increased rotational presence and enhanced exercises, Secretary Del Rosario stated. We also reiterated our agreement that our defense and security cooperation extends to facing other threats in the region, including natural disasters. We

April 15, 2013

Kerry supports Manilas decision on UN arbitration

will continue to cooperate in the areas of humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, the Secretary emphasized. On regional cooperation, both ofcials agreed to work together to build stronger ASEAN-US relations. We agreed on the importance of working together in ASEAN to promote our mutual interests as well as regional cooperation, the Secretary said. Del Rosario was accompanied by Philippine Ambassador to the US Jose Cuisia Jr., Foreign Affairs Assistant Secretary Carlos Sorreta, Deputy Chief of Mission Maria Austria, and Executive Director Rosalita Prospero of the Ofce of American Affairs. I stressed that we are committed to seeing this arbitration through. There should be no confusion or any doubts about our resolve, del Rosario added. He said Kerry also committed to work with Brunei, the current chairman of Asean, on the West Philippine Sea issue.

US Secretary of State John Kerry meets Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario in Washington D.C. Instead, China said in a his rst meeting statement issued at the 19th with his American China-ASEAN Senior Ofcials counterpart were Consultation on April 3 in Bei- Ambassador Jose L. jing that it agrees with the Asean Cuisia, Jr., Foreign to set up a binding code of con- Affairs Assistant duct in the disputed seas. Senior Secretary Carlos ofcials of Asean-China have D. Sorreta; Deputy committed to fully implement Chief of Mission the Declaration on the Conduct Maria Andrelita S. of Parties in the South China Sea Austria; and Execuand work toward a binding code tive Director Rosalof conduct. ita S. Prospero of the In their meeting, Kerry said Ofce of American after meeting Del Rosario: The Affairs. Philippines is one of our ve In a statement, Asia-Pacic allies and a very, the Department very important relationship at of Foreign Affairs this point in time when there are said both ofcials tensions over the South China acknowledged that Sea, where we support a code of there are current conduct. challenges to the We are deeply concerned peace and stabilabout some of these tensions ity of East Asia and and would like to see it worked that it was in the out through a process of arbitra- common interest tion, he added. of both countries Del Rosario said Secretary to work together Kerry emphasized the impor- to prevent conict tance the United States gives to and resolve matmaintaining peace and stability ters peacefully and in the area. More importantly, in accordance with Secretary Kerry assured me that international law. the US is committed to supportOur ability ing the efforts of the Philippines to deter threats or

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It was more than six decades ago when President Franklin Roosevelt promised military benets to Filipinos who fought with the American military against the Japanese in World War II. But in 1946, the US Congress passed the Rescission Act which stripped Filipinos of the benets they were promised. Since then, several bills have been introduced in Congress in an attempt to give full equity to these Filipino war veterans. It was only through the 2008 American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that Filipinos were nally recognized. The huge number of claim denials, however, has left many veterans uncompensated. An executive order from the president will get the Filipino veterans out of 66 years of not getting recognition, Cesar Elpidio had told a Nevada senate hearing last year. Elpidio is adviser to advocacy group Filipino-American Veterans and Families of Nevada (FAVFA) which works to help WWII veterans in Las Vegas.

Sen. Ried to ask Obama to pay WWII vets

LAS VEGAS - Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says he will ask President Obama to reconsider compensation claims by Filipino Veterans of World War II who have been denied the benets because of faulty records. Sen. Ried (D-Nevada) made this assurance in an interview with the Asian Journal newspaper. He said he will write a letter to the President to issue an immediate order. A White House order will direct government agencies to start accepting records from Filipinos who have authenticated proof of US military service is the quickest solution to the problem of World War II veterans, most of whom are frail and in their advanced ages, a Las Vegas-based advocacy group had noted. Since the Obama administration set aside $198 million in 2008 for benets of Filipino veterans who fought in World War II, thousands of claims were turned down because their names were not on a prescribed list. This is even if the soldiers

Senator Harry Reid showed proof of US military service authenticated by the Philippine government.

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RIVERSIDE, California California Baptist University (CBU) expelled a Filipino student when it learned shes a transgender after appearing and discussing the stigma of being transgender on MTV show True Life. Domainlor Javier Cabading sued the university, its dean of students David Anthony Lammons, and its vice president for student services Lowell Kent Dacus, in Riverside County Superior Court. Cabading, whom the complaint refers to as Ms. Javier, claims the school unlawfully expelled her only weeks before she was to begin pursuing her degree in nursing because it found out she is transgender. Cabading, who is 26 and a native of the Philippines, says she came to the United States in 2007 to earn a college education and a nd a job so she could take care of her mom. Although Ms. Javier was born male, she has viewed herself as female for as long as she can remember and as presented herself as female since she was a child, the complaint states. California Baptist University is an accredited university founded in 1950. It is afliated with the California Southern Baptist Convention and is the only Southern Baptist college or university on the West Coast, according to its website. The college has more than 6,000 students from 37 states and 30 foreign countries, and 508 faculty members at four California campuses, according to the complaint. The school says on its website that its mission is to provide a Christ-centered educational experience that integrates academics with spiritual and social development opportunities. Graduates are challenged to become individuals whose skills, integrity and sense of purpose glorify God and distinguish them in the workplace and in the world. Cabading says she submitted an online application to CBU around Feb. 28, 2011, while she was a student at Riverside City College. On the application, she

April 15, 2013

Unlawfully expelled Pinay transgender sues school

says she checked the box marked female. To complete the application, Cabading says, she had to click I agree in response to a statement of agreement that outlined CBUs policies for student conduct. Among other things, the agreement banned smoking, drinking, and tobacco, requires students to attend weekly church services, and tells them to respect the personal integrity of every member of the campus community...by refraining from profanity, harassment, [and] physical or verbal abuse, according to the complaint. Cabading claims: Neither the application, nor the statement of agreement, nor any of the documents referenced therein, address gender identity, gender expression, or transgender persons. Cabading says CBU accepted her as an honors student in a June 10, 2011 acceptance letter, which said she was eligible for nancial aid. She says she applied for an academic scholarship and was awarded $3,500, and received $2,000 more after she auditioned for the CBUs womens choir and impressed them with her skills as a female singer. But a little over a month later, Cabading says, she received a letter from defendant Dean Anthony Lammons, stating that CBU was suspending her registration eligibility because she had lied about her identify. In response, Ms. Javier acknowledged being transgender but denied committing fraud or concealment of identity, and explained how selecting female for her gender on the application was consistent with her gender identity.

Domainlor Javier Cabading indicated that her academic goal was to graduate from CBU with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, the complaint states. In response to questions about her religious beliefs, she wrote that she is Catholic and goes to a Catholic church in Riverside, Cabading says. When the application asked her to identify her gender, she

2 nature fotogs to record PH barrier reef

WASHINGTON D.C. - Two of the worlds top nature photographers are mounting a 2-week expedition in April to help draw international attention on the unique but endangered Danajon Bank in the Philippines. Tyler Stiem, a spokesman for Project Seahorse, a marine conservation organization based at the University of British Columbia in Canada, emailed this writer about the upcoming mission. Photographers Thomas Peschak and Luciano Candisani join Project Seahorse scientists studying the countrys only double barrier reef April 5-15. The scientic team reportedly includes Dr. Amanda Vincent and Dr. Heather Koldeway of Project Seahorse and the Zoological Society of London. The 135-kilometer-long Danajon Bank stretches north of Bohol, between Cebu and Samar islands in the Visayas. Its home to more than 200 species of coral reefs, over 500 sh species and hectares upon hectares of ecologically important sea grass and mangroves. It is only one of three double barrier reefs in the IndoPacic region (from the Red Sea to the Indian Ocean and onto the Pacic) and one of only six in the world. Various species roaming the vastness of the Pacic Ocean are believed to have evolved at Danajon Bank. It is home to at least 200 threatened animals, including the elusive tiger-tail seahorse. The photos will be turned into a series of photo exhibits that will travel around the world, Stiem wrote, to promote conservation of this ecologically important region of central Philippines. Peschak is a retired marine biologist whos now a contributing photographer to National Geographic Magazine. He was recently named one of the 40 most inuential nature photographers in the world, producing three books Currents of Contrast, Great White Shark and Wild Seas Secret Shores. He describes himself as a nomad, spending most of the year on assignments. Candisani has been taking pictures of wildlife since 1996. The Brazilian photojournalist has decided to devote his life to promoting biodiversity and conservation, his works often featured in National Geographic, GEO and BBC Wildlife. He has worked with primates in Brazilian rain forests to the Rocas Atoll in the Atlantic. He has produced at least 5 photographic books, including the latest Jubarte about humpback whales released in 2010. They hope to show the photographs in public exhibits at aquariums in Chicago, Hongkong, Manila and London by June. Project Seahorse also plans to publish them in a new book about conservation efforts at Danajon Bank. The expedition is a collaboration of Project Seahorse and the International League of Conservation Photographers (ILCP) to help raise awareness of the threats against the Danajon Bank. They are hoping the Philippine government will improve protection of the threatened reefs.

Filam con linked to slay of correctional ofcer

WAYNE COUNTY, Pennsylvania - Filipino American Jessie Con-ui, who is described by the media as a cold-blooded killer, has been identied as the suspect in the Feb. 25 murder of a correctional ofcer at the US Penitentiary at Canaan in Wayne County. Con-ui, already jailed for life for killing a gang rival in Arizona, is said to be the alleged killer of correctional ofcer Eric Williams. That killing could carry a death sentence, Chief U.S. District Judge Yvette Kane said as she assigned a pre-eminent death penalty-certied attorney to represent him throughout the investigation and potential prosecution. Mr. Con-ui, an enforcer for the violent New Mexican Maa gang, was jailed at Canaan at the time of Mr. Williams death on an 11-year sentence for his role in the gangs Arizona drug-trafcking operation. Mr. Con-ui, 36, was scheduled to complete the federal sentence in September and would have immediately been returned to Arizona to begin serving his life term for the 2002 murder. After Mr. Williams death, prison ofcials swiftly transferred Mr. Con-ui to a high-security prison in Allenwood, Union County, according to the federal Bureau of Prisons and correcand other means to win favor with other gang members while they trafcked marijuana, methamphetamines and cocaine throughout the southwest. Mr. Con-ui and two other gang members fatally shot Carlos Garcia outside a laundry facility in East Phoenix, Ariz., in August 2002 to further or assist the gangs criminal conduct, according to state prosecutors and Maricopa County, Ariz., court records. Fourteen months later, federal investigators charged Mr. Con-ui and six other gang members in a widespread drugtrafcking scheme. Mr. Con-ui pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and was sentenced to the 11-year term that eventually led him to Canaan. A presentence report for a co-defendant in the drug trafcking case described Mr. Con-ui as possessing a weapon and said the New Mexican Maas role in the operation was to provide security during the delivery of the drugs. During the investigation, federal prosecutor Glenn B. McCormick wrote in a court ling, members of the gang were observed sending heroin to incarcerated members, talking about drug deals, taking part in drug deals and talking about people they need to murder including police ofcers.

Jessie Con-ui tional ofcers with knowledge of the investigation. He could remain there indenitely. Mr. Williams died after an inmate blindsided and attacked him as he made his rounds for nightly lockdown between 9:45 and 10 p.m. The attacking inmate hurled the 34-year-old Nanticoke native down a set of steps and pounced, beating him and repeatedly stabbing him with a crude, knife-like weapon known as a shank. Mr. Williams parents, Donald and Jean, said they had read online news reports that identied Mr. Con-ui as the attacking inmate and detailed his criminal history. Court records in Arizona and federal courts showed Mr. Con-ui as a climber in the New Mexican Maa, using violence

April 15, 2013

Jose Vargas locks horns with columnist Malkin

By Joseph Pimentel
Two prominent Filipino writers on the opposite side of the immigration and political spectrum battled it out on Twitter on April 4, trading tweets over what the US government should do to undocuEarlier, the 40-year-old Malkin, whose parents legally immigrated from the Philippines to the US on an employer visa, wrote a piece criticizing the Associated Press for dropping its use of illegal immigrant when referring to the undocumented. Malkin rebukes ABCs coverage and writer Christina Constantini, who in the story and later tweet credits Vargas as one of the people for spearheading the change. Malkin was not pleased. Jose Antonio Vargas, the former Washington Post reporter who spearheaded the whitewashing of our language and our laws on behalf of illegal aliens, Malkin wrote on Twitchy, a site she founded. In 2011, with great fanfare and elite media sympathy, Vargas publicly declared himself an undocumented immigrant.Except, as he himself confessed, Vargas had documents coming out of his ears, including a fake passport with a fake name, a fake green card and a Social Security card his grandfather doctored for him at a Kinkos. This led to the adobo dinner response by Vargas on Twitter. Michellemalkin, I can cook it w/ more vinegar. I can make pork adobo or chicken-and-pork adobo. Name a time, place, Im there, he tweeted. Because of her ethnicity, Malkin (who was born Michelle Maglalang) was expected by many to sympathize with the plight of undocumented immigrants. However, she does not.

Columnist Michelle Malkin and Jose A. Vargas. mented immigrants. Fil-Am conservative columnist and TV personality Michelle Malkin and undocumented Filipino journalist and Pulitzer Prize winner Jose Antonio Vargas battled it out on the social media site, providing an insightful look at the polarizing issue as the Gang of Eight Senators in Washington continue to work on a bi-partisan comprehensive immigration reform bill. What sparked the Twitter feud? Vargas sent an invitation to Malkin to discuss immigration matters over adobo, a traditional Filipino dish which he volunteered to prepare. Thanks, Malkin tweets. I like my adobo with an extraheavy dose of vinegar.

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By Joseph Pimentel and Mico Letargo
SAN FRANCISCO - Five Filams have chosen to take part in Teach for the Philippines program that trains high achieving Filipinos to teach in struggling public elementary schools in the country. They are committing the next two years of their lives to teaching, for the betterment of public education in the country. One is continuing a legacy. Another one is taking a leap of faith. The rest plan are in it to connect with their Filipino roots. For the next two years, these Filipino-Americans will embark on a bold journey and a once-ina-lifetime experience -- as part of the inaugural class of TFP. Filams Adam Crayne of San Jose, Lesley De Leon of Chicago, Leslie Espinosa of New York, John Navarra of San Francisco, and Leah Villanueva of Florida will join 49 other Filipinos (including Christophe HenaresChuidian, who studied in Boston but was recruited in the Philippines), as part of this historic corps in the TFP. Their success would impact the lives of 22 million elementary school students in the country. Among the other 49, four are based abroad (Australia and Japan, to name a few). The rest are young professionals and graduates from some of the top schools Vea, co-director of US Strategy: Recruitment and Selection at Teach for the Philippines.

April 15, 2013

5 Filams are Teach for the Philippines fellows

school administrators from 1999, until it transitioned into TFP in August 2012. The mission remains the same: remove the educational disparity that plagues the country. Every child, no matter where you are should have access to a high quality of education. But the reality is, sadly, that is not the case, said Vea. The launch of the TFP program comes at a crucial time when the country is revamping its educational format, and trying to retain teachers and keep them from going abroad. The educational inequality is too substantial. Philippine national hero Jose Rizal once said: Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan (The youth is the hope of a nation.) However, looking at the shocking numbers of the youth in the Philippines today reveals that every year, two million Filipino school-aged children drop out. 700,000 children do not complete elementary school; about 1.36 million will not nish secondary school. Another million school children will be unable to enroll, due to poverty. During The State of Basic Education: Gaining Ground presentation last year, ofcials found that from 2001 to 2010, only 51 of 100 school children enrolled in the rst grade graduate from high school. Adding to that is a dearth of teachers, who either nd jobs abroad or change professions, in order to work elsewhere. The innovative and new program Teach for the Philippines (TFP) aims to bridge the achievement gap between children from low-income backgrounds and their wealthier peers. At the end of it all, only 14 percent graduate from college, said Stanly Sy, public relations and emerging media ofcer for TFP. As a way to compete with other countries around the world, the Philippines revamped its old system where students attend 10 years of schooling (grades 1 to 6 elementary level and rst year to fourth year for high school level), to a K-12 system (primary education to Grades 1 to 10 plus two years of senior high school). Department of Education ofcials hope with this new model (which takes effect on 2016), by making primary education compulsory, it would lead to less drop outs and higher-educated Filipinos. The new K-12 system will produce graduates who are more prepared for college education, wrote Erica Delos Santos for IConnect newsletter.

Leah Villanueva, Adam Crayne, Leslie Espinosa and Lesley de Leon in the Philippines, including De La Salle University,University of the Philippines and Ateneo De Manila University, among others. These are the trailblazers who will set forth the path for all future enrollees, said Michael These people are the future leaders and have joined, to make a difference in the country. As an organization, TFP traces its roots from the Sa Aklat Sisikat Foundation, which advocated for functional literacy and better training for teachers and

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UPM Department of Behavioral Sciences last Monday in a Mass held in her honor. Her father home in Manila. The eldest of four children, she had high hopes for herself and family. She wanted to be a doctor for the poor and eventually help support her other siblings. A consistent honor student since elementary, she graduated salutatorian at the Rizal Elementary School in Tayuman, Manila. In high school, Kristel studied at the Manila Cathedral School as a full scholar from rst to fourth year. So even if the tuition there was worth P33,000, Christopher says, he did not pay a single centavo. dream. He said his daughter would go to school mostly without any allowance. One time, he gave her a baon of R70. She used it to buy R20 worth of candies and gave two pieces to her dad. When he asked her what were all those candies for, she said that it will be her lunch in school that day. Her teacher in General Psychology, Behavioral Sciences, according to Prof. Martinez, said Kristel usually went to school with no transportation money. Sometimes, she would shell out some cash from her own pocket and give to Kristel just so she could be able to go home. The STFAP, according to UPM Chancellor Dr. Manuel Agulto, was designed to ease the nancial burden of underprivileged students by studying in UP without having to pay the full tuition fee. Students even receive monthly stipend depending on their bracket. The STFAP brackets are based on the annual family income and have corresponding fees or benets. Kristel was classied under Bracket D was required to pay only R300 per unit (R7,500 per semester), equivalent to a 70 percent discount on base tuition fees, full miscellaneous and laboratory fees. Under this bracket, the annual family income ranges from R135,000 to R250,000, which Kristels father strongly contests. Paano kami naging Bracket D eh wala akong trabaho nung nag-apply ng STFAP? Nung nagkatrabaho naman ako one month palang natanggal ako. Ang sahod ko nun R426 a day lang. kahit icompute mo yun hindi aabot ng R135,000 sa isang taon. Naging truthful naman kami, at nung nagkatrabaho ako dineclare namin, pero dapat talaga nasa Bracket E kami, laments Christopher. Under Bracket E1 and E2, students from families with an annual income of R80,000 and less, enjoy free tuition, miscellaneous and laboratory fees, and receive monthly stipend.

Kristels death not in vain as UP eases rule

QUEZON CITY - In a directive released to all Chancellors and UP Cebu Dean, Dr. Alfredo Pascual, president of the University of the Philippines, urged all chancellors to allow a reasonable amount of time for registration and payment of (tuition) fees by students. This latest development was among the major changes that have resulted from the suicide of student Kristel Tejada because she was suspended because she failed to pay her tuition fees. Its a welcome development. At least Kristels death was not in vain because the very policy that deprived her of education and cost her life was now lifted. Its an admission that the said policy does not cater to the interest of the students. I just hope that it will lead to more meaningful changes such as the complete revocation of this policy, says UP Prof. Andres Martinez. Kristels death has sparked outrage from the UP community, youth and militant groups, as well as netizens who condemned the institutions alleged repressive policies. UPM student council vice chair Adrian Sampang stressed that the bracketting classication of students is awed. To rxpress their indignation, UP students in Diliman, Manila walked out of their classes and held daily vigils, protests, and other mass actions to demand

The Oblation in UP is covered in black tarpaulin. the scrapping of the policies, the junking of the STFAP and its ongoing review, a big-time rollback in tuition in UP, a tuition moratorium for all state colleges and universities, and the resignation of top UP ofcials. The Oblation was wrapped in black until the burial of Kristel late last month. The much-cherished I.D. of UP-Manila freshman Kristel Tejada was returned to her family by the ofcials of the Christopher Tejada was touched by this unexpected gift which does not have any use now. The Manila City government also gage him a job. For his daughter, the UP ID was the only proof of her association with the countrys premier state university and symbolized her education which was her only way out of poverty. Kristel poisoned herself to death by drinking a bottle of silver jewelry cleaner in her

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WASHINGTON D.C. - Volunteers of the Pennsylvaniabased World Surgical Foundation (WSF) have undertaken a ve-day medical mission in Coron, Palawan late in February, 2013. Unlike other medical missions, they also brought medical and surgical supplies to the Coron District Hospital which they used in their mission. The Coron mission is part of WSFs adopt a hospital program. WSF was founded in 1977 by Filipino American doctor, Domingo T. Alvear, a graduate of Santo Tomas University. Besides treating patients and bringing surgical and medical supplies good for six months, the WSF missioners also taught the small staff of the hospital about the latest techniques in surgery and medical care. The Coron hospital is headed by Dr. Edgar Flores. In cooperation with the Philippine College of Surgeons, WSF performed 224 procedures including 110 minor surgeries, 50 OB/ GYN, 41 general, 16 plastic and 7 pediatric. The 5-day mission in Coron that started Feb. 24 proves the model of collaboration works successfully with equal numbers of WSF doctors and local Philippine counterparts, WSF said. Before the missioners arrived, a 40-foot container van sent to the hospital earlier arrived in several in truckloads. The crates contained heavy medical equipment that were unloaded and assembled by doctors, nurses and volunteers along with local help. continue providing needed help in the future. Dr. Flores said that because of the equipment that a modern hospital needs, Coron District Hospital can now serve as a base for future missions not only by WSF but also by local Philippine doctors who can return with reg-

April 15, 2013

WSF brings surgical, medical aid to Coron

describe their time at the hospital and our mission trip this week. What an honor for our work to be thought of at the same level as theirs. Outside of the operating room, Sister Margaret and some recent nurse graduates volunteering from the local Rural Medical Humanities Initiative. Dr. Alvear has conducted his rst surgical volunteer trip to his native Philippines as a medical student in 1963, and has passionately continued the practice for the past 39 years. WSFs surgical teams have improved the quality of life for thousands of patients in the Philippines and around the world by performing a wide range of surgical procedures, including thyroidectomies, hernia repairs, cleft palette repairs, and hysterectomies. During his many international medical trips, he is known as a teacher who takes time to work with local physicians in sharing ideas and teaching new concepts and techniques. Back in the states, he serves as an enthusiastic advocate for surgical volunteerism. Medical missions are common in rural hospitals of the Philippines. One unique element to WSF, however, is its commitment to providing needed items and recycled equipment for hospitals to continue doing good work. Dr. Flores said that before, the Coron hospital has been doing minor surgeries and orthopedics but major surgical cases are referred to Manila and Culion.

Dr. Domingo T. Alvear, Coron District Hospital is the rst hospital in the Philippines to be adopted by a foreign organization. WSF said it is using this hospital as a model for future adoptions to come. It promised to be different from other drive-by missions to never return. Palawan Governor Kahlil B. Mitra attended the rst day of the mission thanking the WSF for its generous donation, adopting the hospital and promising to

The Coron, Palawan District hospital. ularity and sustainable healthcare is achieved. Everything is so organized, and everyone is so helpful, said Mayette, the chief nurse of Coron District Hospital and one who has worked here for 32 years. I was so touched to see Dr. Jason cleaning the tables, and doctors/ nurses moving patients from OR beds to recovery room, said Judith, head OR nurse and staff member of 22 years. Service was the word they both used to Health Unit (RHU) discussed the practice of inserting an IV into patients and the cultural norms surrounding it. Inside the operation room, doctors showed unique techniques of their own specialty in how they perform surgery. Theres a strong commitment to educate and learn on these mission trips. Dr. Alvear is the recipient of the 2005 American College of Surgeon Surgical Volunteerism Award sponsored by Pzer

April 15, 2013

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excited to share my latest experiences in one of my usual four times trip to the Philippines each year. Yes, Ive been here in the U.S. for 18 years but Im always excited to go home; my Philippines dear Philippines!! I came home in time for the AZKALS 2014 Challenge Cup as their springboard to the AFC Asian Cup that will take place in Sydney, Australia 2 years from now. The ambiance and the spirit of being a Filipino to the Rizal Memorial Stadium gave me goosebumps. Filipinos cheered not just every time AZKALS scored goals but whenever they touched the ball. It is a non-stop cheering until you have no voice at all.. The greatest feeling as a mother is when people cheered for your son and chanting his name when he is being called to get in the game. He is being tagged as The Filipino Messi and The Future of Philippine Football. My heart was swollen with pride and memories ashed as I remember him as a 5 year old boy starting to learn soccer. Our ag waved in victory and thank you to these young men coming from different parts of the globe to share their skills and uplift Philippine Football. I know they were being bashed as not Filipinos but who cares; these boys are more Filipino with their spirit to help the country raise the bar and until the grassroots program will become a reality. Their bashers just to realize, it takes time. ITS MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES!! I also meet some condo builders to get update on whats new in Philippine Real Estate. I found myself enthralled with The Fort in Taguig where Emperador Stadium is located in nearby Fort Bonifacio. Lucky are those investors and home owners who were able to purchased properties here when it was still developing around four to ve years ago. The area is amazingly beautiful!! It is not the usual crowded city but although it is a busy place, it is so relaxing and you can nd almost all amenities you can wish for in walking distance. You can also nd American Stores and Restaurants just in case you are craving for one. These are a little bit pricey compared to local commercial establishments but still reasonable. There were always lines to get into Starbucks, the latest one IHOP, and PF Chang.

Its more fun in the Philippines

by Jocelyn Porteria
MANILA Mangyari po lamang na isuot ang inyong sinturong pangkalikasan at tayo po ay lalapag na sa Ninoy International Airport Aaahhhh, the sweetest words most of our kababayans are so excited to hear after months of preparation, shopping for pasalubongs, sleepless nights and the struggle to t all the stuff in two 50 pounds box or luggage. To top it all, enduring the 24 hours ight including lay overs. Passengers are getting loud looking at the plane window getting a glimpse of the Philippines from the air and the traditional clapping once the plane landed. Im writing through the mercy of Wi-Fi my sons carry with them all the time. I called it portable internet caf; it is a small gadget same size as the cell phone and function like a router where they can have Wi-Fi all the time but same as cell phone that they have to buy loads. Hmmnn, ITS MORE FUN IN THE PHILIPPINES!! Im all

12
MANILA - The Department of Justice, upon orders of President Aquino III, is conducting a deeper probe of the disappearance of activist Jonas Burgos. The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it was also in favor of solving the issue as soon as possible. Meanwhile, Editha Burgos, the mother of the missing activist,os has asked the Court of Appeals to reopen the case after receiving documents from an anonymous source that strengthened links between the abduction of Burgos and the suspected in-volvement of certain elements of the Armed Forces of the Philip-pines (AFP). Included in the newly obtained documents, Mrs. Burgos said, is the picture of Jonas inside what appears to be a detention cell which was taken a few days after he was abducted. In the said picture, she said Jonas wore a white T-shirt and a fabric used in blindfolding him was seen hanging from his neck. Burgos hopes her motion will be included in the agenda of the scheduled en banc session of the SC justices. In the ruling of the CA on March 18, 2013, it said the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and Philippine National Police (PNP) were involved in the forced disappearance of Jonas in 2007. The CA particularly identied Army Maj. Harry Baliaga as responsible for the disappearance of the activist. It added the Burgos case can be considered a case of enforced disappearance and is covered by the rules in the Writ of Amparo. Reelectionist Sen. Francis

April 15, 2013

PNoy orders deeper probe of Burgos disappearance

the speedy resolution of the case which had bothered the national conscience for more than ve years over the likelihood that the crime had been state-sponsored, the senator said. Jonas, son of a journalist Jose Burgos and a farmer-activist, disappeared after being abducted by suspected state agents on April 28, 2007 at the Ever Gotesco Mall, Commonwealth Avenue, Quezon City. The Court of Appeals (CA) ruled last March 27, after a threeyear review of the Burgos case, that the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) were accountable for the enforced disappearance of Burgos. Escudero said the law primarily mandates command responsibility on military and police ofcials on the acts of their personnel who may be held accountable on enforced disappearance cases. The law also prohibits the issuances of orders of battle by the military, police or any law enforcement agency as justication for an enforced or involuntary disappearance. The law seeks to make enforced disappearances a thing of the dark past of the nation and it is the rst law that guarantees the rights of the family of victims in seeking redress with the courts. The CPP pointed out that the principal military ofcial who was responsible for the actual act of Burgos abduction then 1st Lt. Harry Balliaga, Jr. has since been promoted by the Philippine Army to his current position as army major.

Jonas Burgos Escudero urged both the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) to immediately take hold of the alleged new evidence. In view of the latest claims of Mrs. Burgos on the supposed new evidence, the government now holds the ball in ensuring

Viloria wants rematch with Marquez

MACAU - His swollen faced laced with plasters after losing to younger Mexican gthter Juan Estrada, Filipino American boxer Brian Viloria said he wants a rematch. But Viloria, now the former WBO and WBA yweight champion, will have to wait a while because it looks like Estrada has already agreed to face Filipino Milan Melindo in August. I want a rematch. I gave you this chance so you give me a chance. You can reciprocate, Viloria, bruised and battered, said during the post-ght press conference at The Venetian Im not nished yet. Tonight was just a little bump on the road. Im going to come back, said Viloria, 32, who apologized to his Filipino fans for letting you down. Estrada, who was waiting for his turn to be called up the stage, seemed to have agreed instantly, and Viloria gave him the thumbs-up sign while saying, on Melindo next, and maybe the 32-year-old Viloria can face the winner. The Filipino-American fought Estrada hard for 12 rounds and dropped a split decision. He felt he could have won the ght while others thought he blew it. Neither ghter went down although at times in the closing rounds, Viloria looked ready to go. But he managed to hang on, ducking and throwing punches until the end. One judge had it 115-113 for Viloria while the two others had it 117-111and 116-111 for Estrada. Viloria walked into the conference room with a swollen face and plasters above his eyes due to cuts that needed a couple of stitches to close.

Pacmans next ght in September

MANILA Philippine boxing hero Manny Pacquiao plans to ght again in September, with the bout likely to be staged outside the United States to avoid high taxes, his spokeswoman said April 3. Negotiations are ongoing for a rematch with Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez, who knocked Pacquiao out in his last ght in December, although the opponent and the venue are yet to be nalised, Rose Tamayo told Agence France-Presse. The ght is denitely in September. We will talk about the opponent and the place after the May 13 elections, Tamayo said. Pacquiao, 34, is running for re-election as a congressman in next months poll. Tamayo said Pacquiao wanted his next ght to be outside the United States, where he has traditionally fought in front of huge crowds and for enormous pay-per-view television revenues, to avoid high taxes. Manny wants to ght outside the United States because of the taxes...Singapore is one of the top places for consideration. There is also Macau and Dubai, Tamayo told Agence FrancePresse. Pacquiao has won an unprecedented eight world titles responded to the call from Sir Williams Hotel where the former Penn State star reportedly damaged some properties including computers after claiming that three women stole his money amounting to P60,000. If the allegations and charges in this incident are proven to be true, I see Mr. Cornley as having zero chance of playing in the PBA again, at least not under my watch. in different weight divisions, and was until recently regarded by many as the best pound-forpound boxer. But Pacquiao lost his World Boxing Organization welterweight crown in June last year in a controversial points decision to US ghter Timothy Bradley, then suffered his shock knockout defeat to Marquez. His losses prompted calls for him to retire, but Pacquiao has consistently signalled his intention to keep on ghting. Pacquiaos sporting achievements lifted him and his family out of deep poverty, as he became one of the highest paid sportsmen in the world and an endorser of a myriad of products in the Philippines. He translated his boxing success into the political ring, winning a seat in the nations lower house of parliament in 2010. Pacquiao is running for reelection unopposed in the May polls, while seeking to build a power base for his family. Pacquiaos wife and brother are also running for political posts in the May elections. Many Philippine politicians draft in relatives to stand for other elective positions to spread their inuence and strengthen their power networks. This marked the third time in less than a month where the PBAs image took a hit involving imports starting with former Petron Blaze reinforcement Renaldo Balkmans choking incident which caused him a lifetime league ban and a P250,000 ne followed by ousted GlobalPortimport Walter Sharpes alleged drunken photo which circulated on the Internet.

Brian Viloria Okay? Lets do it again. Fight promoter Bob Arum cut the impromptu negotiations short by saying Estrada will take

Another PBA import faces deportation

MANILA - Jamelle Cornley has won the Philippine Basketaball Associationss 37th Season Governors Cup Best Import. But he may not play anymore if it is proven that he allegedly assaulted a Quezon City police ofcer for creating a ruckus in a local hotel. PBA Commissioner Chito Salud said in a statement that Cornley, who was rrested after allegedly assaulting a police ofcer March 27 will have zero chance of playing in the PBA again if the charges pressed against the six-foot-ve forward are proven to be true. I understand that this is now a police matter where facts will continue to be established. Mr. Cornley is not currently associated with the PBA in any manner whatsoever. Salud added: Be that as it

Jamelle Comley is shown being restrained by PC police. may, Id perhaps take the occasion to remind our players that playing in the PBA is imbued with public interest and they are thus subject to close public scrutiny within the context of higher standards and expectations. Cornley, who led Rain or Shine to its rst-ever PBA championship during the 2012 PBA Governors Cup where he also bagged the best import award, will be facing alarm and scandal, malicious mischief, direct assault and resisting arrest charges led at the Quezon City Police District Station 10. The 25-year-old Cornley allegedly punched Polcie Ofcer 2 Armando Lazatin, who

April 15, 2013

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14
LYNCHBURG, VirginiaKevin Lunsmann has recounted how he escaped from the terrorists Abu Sayyafs in the mountains of Basilan island in the Philippines after 5 months in captivity. Kevin told the Washington Post about his ordeal. He said that 15 months after his escape he still has nightmares hes back in Philippines hungry, afraid and alone. He is now back in school and getting used to life in the US. Kevin who was then 14, and his Filipino mom Gerfa, 42, were visiting Tictabon island near Zamboanga city when on July 11, 2011 they were taken hostage along with his cousin, Romnik Jakaria, 21, by the Abu Sayyafs. They were held for two and a half months mostly in a 5-feet-by-6-feet wooden cage when Gerfa was freed. The kidnappers demanded $10 million in ransom. (Manila reports said ransom was paid but authorities denied it.) Her husband, Heiko Lunsmann, 50, a nursing home care worker, sought the assistance of their congressman and the state department. He said he was in contact with the kidnappers and told them he had no money to pay them. After Gerfa was freed, it took another two and a half months before Kevin made his daring escape. Heiko believed they would release their son too but it wasnt to be. But soon his cousin was released as well.

April 15, 2013

VA teen recounts escape from Abu Sayyaf

to sneak past the guards and ed to the coast overnight. He came across farmers on the way but wasnt sure he could trust them until one approached him and asked him who he was in English. He told him he would contact the military and then the helicopters arrived. Kevin was ne - except for bruises on his legs and arms and his courage was remarked upon by many. U.S. ambassador Harry Thomas said at the time: In this holiday season nothing makes me happier than knowing that an innocent victim is returned to his family in time for holiday celebrations, I also want to acknowledge the courage of Kevin himself, and his family, throughout this long ordeal. It felt so good, Heiko said. It felt good, good, good. This is home. Good people, good community. This is where Kevin learned how we respect each other, how we value each other, Gerfa, who is a lab technician, said. This country appreciates its people and they will do anything to protect their people. Now Kevin is adapting to life back at Brookville High skateboarding with his older half-brother, Josh Driskill and playing soccer with friends. I just feel grateful, he said.

Gerfa and Kevin Lunsmann. Gerfa stayed in Manila to negotiate with the terrorists for the life of her only child while Kevin remained in the camp. One night, Kevin managed

Metrorail Silver Line

Metrorails Silver Line is expected to open the ViennaReston route later this year, according to the Washington Post. It said the third rails along the tracks in the middle of the Dulles highway are now being energized. Over the next few months, drivers may spot train cars testing new systems. Workers are putting up windscreens on pedestrian bridges and preparing elevators and escalators to carry passengers into new stations. The rst phase of the Silver Line should begin carrying passengers through Tysons Corner to Reston later this year.

April 15, 2013

Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745. Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660 April 27 (Saturday) Filipino American Basketball Association (FABA) FundraisingTrip to Atlantic City. Meeting Places : (a) 6:45am Springfield Mall in front of JC Penny parking lot (b)7:30am Clarion Hotel , 6400 Oxon Hill Rd Oxon Hill,MD. $50.00 per person with $20.00 back from Ballys. Breakfast and drinks will be provided. For information and reservations contact: fabayouth@gmail.com or Agnes Espeleta 240.441.9377. April 27 (Saturday) 7:00pm San Pedro Calugnsod Memorial Mass, Sacred Heart Chapel at OLGC. Light refreshments after mass at the Counsel Room. directions: www.olgcva.org May 2 (Thurs), 6:30-8:30pm. PAFC Planning Meeting for Philippine Festival and Asian Festival. 12700 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 120, Fairfax, VA 22033 Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660 May 4 (Saturday) OLGC Atlantic City Bus Trip. $45. Details TBA. May 23 (Thursday) 6:308:30pm. PAFC Planning Meeting for Philippine Festival and Asian Festival. Sweet City Desserts, 131-A Maple Avenue W, Vienna, VA 22180 , tel: 703-9388188. Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660 May 11 (Saturday) 12:00noon-4:00pm. Asians for Mary Annual Pilgrimage, includes a 60 Filipino man/ woman choir for the event. Basilica Shrine of The Immaculate Concepcion, Upper Church. 400 Michigan Ave., Washington, DC 20017. Contact: Jacinta Mascarenhas terjac@hotmail.com. Details to follow. May 11 (Saturday) Marinduqueneo Assn of the Capital Area Atlantic City Fundraiser. Pickup at Montgomery Mall, Bethesda 6:00am, drop-off 10. $45(21 and over) $35(under 21) includes busfare and voucher. RSVP by March 31; payment due by April 6. Contact: mataac@ comcast.net May 16 (Thursday) PAFC Planning Meeting for Philippine Festival and Asian Festival Philippine Multicultural Center, 7500 Livingston Rd., Oxon Hill, MD 20745..Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660 May 18 (Saturday) 6:0011:30pm, Feed the Hungry, Inc. Spring Shindig. Fort Myer Community Center, McNair Road, Fort Myer, VA. Contact: Mila Nazal 301 288-7010 May 18 (Saturday) 7:30pm Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino Ministry of St. Bernadette. Contact 703-569-1054. May 26 (Sunday) Miss Teenage Philippines Pageant, Inc. Annual Coronation and Ball. Hyatt Regency Crystal City, 2799 Jefferson Davis Highway, Arlington, VA 22202. Contact Trini Padama-301-705-8550 . May 29- 31 PAFC Philippine Festivals Brown Strokes on White Canvas Art Exhibit. Opening reception Wednesday, May 29 at 6:30pm. Location Romulo Hall, Philippine Embassy. Contact: Julian Oteyza at julianoteyza@gmail.com or 703.969.5469 May 30 (Wednesday) 6:30-

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8:30pm. PAFC Planning Meeting for Philippine Festival and Asian Festival. 12700 Fair Lakes Circle, Suite 120, Fairfax, VA 22033 Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660 June 6 and 13 (Thursdays) 6:30-8:30pm. PAFC Planning Meeting for Philippine Festival and Asian Festival. Locations to be announced. Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660 June 15 (Saturday) 6:00pm12:00pm. Philippine Independence Gala Ball. JW Marriott Washington, DC. Continues the tradition of celebrating Independence Day with Philippine Embassy dignitaries, the FilAm community, special guests. $85; premier seats $110. Contact: Nanette Carreon at NSuyat1681@ aol.com. June 15 (Saturday) 7:30pm Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino Ministry of St. Bernadette. Contact 703-569-1054. June 30 (Sunday) PAFC Philippine Festivals Community Picnic and Sports Fest. Fun and food, games for children and sports for grown-ups plus a cultural show and a band marathon pull the community together. Special Feature: Parada ng Lechon, Tucker Road Recreational Park, Fort Washington, MD Contact: Mya Talavera at myatalavera@aol.com. July 20 (Saturday) 7:30pm Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino Ministry of St. Bernadette. Contact 703-569-1054. July 27-28 (Sat-Sun) Asian Festival with Philippine Village at Fairfax Government Center. Cultural performances and food from different Asian countries; product and service booths, childrens area and more. Contact: Bing Branigin at mcbranigin@ aol.com. Nov 16 (Saturday) 2pm 5pm PAFC Dr. Jose Rizal Youth Awards Romulo Hall, Philippine Embassy, Washington. Contact: Aylene Mafnas 703 868 5660. Dec 1 (Sunday) PAFC, Philippine Embassy and FOCUS, Paskong Pinoy. Pryzbyla Hall, Catholic University of America.

If you would like to include your organizations event in this calendar, kindly send your information to Maurese Oteyza Owens at mpapoose@aol.com. April 20, 27 (Saturday) 8:00pm-12:00mn Philippine Multi-Cultural Center Fundraiser with Julian Oteyza and his Tutubi Band, 7500 Livingston Rd, MD. Guest bands and entertainers are welcome. Public is free. Visual artist create artwork to the music of the band. Help sustain the Center -- donations

encouraged for its support. Contact: Grace Villanueva 301-5672280 April 20 (Saturday) 7:30pm Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road, Springfield, VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino Ministry of St. Bernadette. Contact 703-569-1054. April 25 (Thursday) 6:308:30pm PAFC Planning Meeting for Philippine Festival and Asian Festival. Philippine Multicultural Center Ladies Night, 7500

16 Around DC in Pictures

April 15, 2013

The Asian and Pacic Islander American Vote (APIA Vote), held a de-brief and retreat in Washington, DC, last March 22 to 24. Volunteers of the national campaign attended the three-day event, organized by Ms. Christine Chen, Executive Director, APIA Vote. The team exchanged ideas on how to effectively ran a registration and voters campaign and to continue to advocate for more participation by the Asian Pacic Islander and American community. An estimated 58.7% of eligible voters turned out to vote,in the 2012 Presidential election, below the 2008s benchmark high but still above most presidential elections in the past 40 years.Minesota rank number 1 in turnout with an estimated 76% of eligible voters casting votes, follwed by Wisconsin by 73.2%. Virginia was 7th with 66.9%, and Maryland in 8th with 66.8%. Washington, DC was 22nd, with 63.3%, and last was Hawaii with 44.5%.

Avante-Garde artist and magician Julian Oteyza, from Virginia, presented Juliana Chang, a world champion female magician from China, an original rotating Dyslexart painting, at the conference of the International Brotherhood of Magicians held in Alexandria, Virginia April 6, 2013. Chang was an acrobat touring with a Chinese group when she injured her foot and was forced to retire a few years ago. This forced her to focus on her other interest, performing magic. She got so good at it that she started performing all over the world and winning competitions.

The Philippine American Foundation For Charities, ofcially acknowledged the 2013 grant recipients April 3 at the Philippine Multi Cultural Center. They are Al Santoli for Asian America Initiative (AAI), Ron Curameng for YOYO Cultural Group, Marindoqueno Inc, Gawad Kalinga, Angkop, Mabuhay, Inc., and American University-FOCUS. Also in photo are ofcers and members of the PAFC Board and ofcers headed by Mr. Ador Carreon (right, rst row.) (Bing C. Branigin)

The Mails Bing Branigin, after a long wait, nally gets a picture of the Cherry Blossoms in bloom.

Asian Heritage Festival set May 18 in DC

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In celebration of Asian Heritage Month, Asia Heritage Foundation once again brings Asian air to the Nations Capital Main Street with its 8th annual National Asian Heritage Festival--Fiesta Asia. The Signature Celebration is a multicultural street fair on Saturday, May 18, 2013 from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM along Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 3rd & 6th Streets in the District of Columbia. Fiesta Asia Street Fair is a Key Partner Event of Passport DC. This years featured highlight is the new Fiesta Asia Emerging Stars Contest - a live talent search for ages 5 to 17. AsiaMoves, our annual learn online, dance in the streets project is rocking a Bhangra Mania theme. Everyone can try their skills at the Fortune Cookie Writing Contest and vote for their favorite word of wisdom online. Entertainment and activities are scheduled for nine consecutive hours featuring ve stages, ve zones, over eight hundred performers and seventy diverse groups from over twenty cultures locally, regionally and internationally. Admission to Fiesta Asia Street Fair is FREE and open to the public. In addition to the May 18th street fair, DC metro area residents can explore and experience a variety of cultural activities including, Fiesta Asia @ Silver Spring on May 4th, Fiesta Asia Planet Family @ Smithsonians National Zoo on May 12th & Fiesta Asia Film Fest @ West End Cinema on May 28th -30th. For more information about participation as a partner, sponsor, exhibitor, volunteer, or about our month long activities, please visit www.asiaheritagefoundation.org.

The All Nippon Airlines held a reception at the Mayower Hotel recently to announced their new aircrafts from Dulles Airport to Tokyo, Japan and continuing to other major cities in Asia, including Manila. Hundreds attended the reception, including Filipino American owned travel services in the Washington, DC., area. (By: Bing Cardenas Branigin)

Visit us online: www.manilamail.us

April 15, 2013

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Philippine Oriental Market & Deli celebrates 35th year

By Jennie L. Ilustre
Oscar and Evelyn Bunoan marked the 35th anniversary of the Philippine Oriental Market and Deli on April 9 with the blessing of their newly-renovated store, located in Arlington, Virginia. The event was a double celebration, as friends also toasted Oscars birthday. Through the years, the couples business has been a part of Mainstream America. Americans keep coming back for pancit (noodle dishes). The spring roll remains the all-time favorite of most customers. Evelyn herself has been featured in the D.C. Examiner. She was a guest on WUSA-TV9. Shes a regular guest at the Summer Asian Festival, conducting cooking demonstrations. Evelyn and Oscar put in a lot of hours in growing their business. Its a partnership thats rooted in caring about providing varied, healthy food for our customers, and also offering a wide range of items, said Evelyn. They are popular with people of all ages. They also have a wide following as Manila Mail columnists. He has a jokes column. She shares her own recipes and kitchen tips. It is a major milestone, yes, said Oscar, who is known for his keen sense of humor and friendly ways. What makes it special is we view our customers as family and friends. Evelyn recalled: Yes, we consider our customers as family. When I started, some of my customers were college students. Now, their grown-up children are among my customers. Some families call me up and order a whole lunch or dinner, or cakes for some special occa-

Fr. Randy Gonzales, CICM, leads a prayer as he blesses the newly-renovated Philippine Oriental Market and Deli, which Evelyn Bunoan (center) opened 36 years ago in Arlington , Va. The April 9 event was also a celebration of Oscar Bunoans 67th birthday. (Photo by Jon Melegrito) Oscar and Evelyn Bunoan proudly pose in front of their renovated Philippine Oriental Market & Deli.

Friends of Oscar and Evelyn Bunoan gathered at the Philippine Oriental Mart in Arlington Va. on April 9 to celebrate Oscars 67th Birthday and the blessing of the newly-renovated store, which opened 36 years ago. Attending were, from left: Oscar, Fr. Randy Gonzales, Evelyn, Becky and Pat Pagsibigan, Herb Manila, Julius Jose, Jose Donato, Emy Batulan, Lem and Becky Ramos. Guests also included Tony Donato, Jennie Ilustre, Miriam Riedmiller and her mother, Mrs. Bustamante. (Photo by Jennie L. Ilustre) sionsthe way one would ask their mom or aunt. They like that everything tastes home-cooked, or home-baked. Indeed, Fr. Randy Gonzales, CICM, who ofciated at the store and delis blessing, and guests felt that way. Everything is fresh and home-cookedand the hosts are so nice, said Becky Pagsibigan. The menu consisted of crab salad, sisig, vegetable lumpia, grilled jumbo shrimps and adobo. Cake was served with tea and Starbucks coffee and the Philippine favorite, caramelized sago drink. Guests also included Jon Melegrito, Tony and Josie Donato, Lem and Becky Ramos, Pat Pagsibigan, Emy Batulan, Julius Jose, Herb Manila, and

The paintings of Evelyn are displayed on walls of the Deli. Miriam Riedmiller and her mom, Mrs. Bustamante. Nowadays, customers can also enjoy the display of Evelyns paintings, while gobbling down their food. Yes, this chef also paints. Self-taught, she has sold oil paintings to customers. One wonders where she nds the time (at night, when shes doing the laundry, working on three paintings at a time.) Evelyn Bunoan started her career in numbers, not in art (she earned her B.A in accounting from the University of the East.) Later, she enrolled at Le Cordon Bleu in London and studied French cuisine and patisserie, graduating with French Master Chef credentials. She bought the store in 1978, while she was still working at the World Bank. She retired from the Bank in 2000, after working for nearly three decades. The store is located on 3610 Lee Highway in Arlington, Virginia (across Safeway) with Tel. No. (703) 5280300. It is open from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., from Wednesday to Sunday.

Carlo Yano nally ties the knot with longtime girlfriend Monique Arciaga in a civil wedding ceremony last April 4, 2013, in Maryland. The event was attended by close family members and some friends from the diplomatic circle. In this picture are from left, rst row: Roberto Gunio, Jane Docampo, Thelma Arciaga (mother of the bride), Monique Arciaga and Carlo Yano, Estela Yano (mother of the groom), Kim Razon Second row: Gino Sarrate, Mike Docampo, Deln Lorenzana, Alexander Yano, Maj. Gen. Cesar Yano (Father of the groom).

Hon. Maria Andrelita Austria, Charge d Affaires of the Philippine Embassy, led a wreath-laying ceremony at the World War II Memorial to commemorate the Fall of Bataan 71 years ago on April 9. Participating were Ret. Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba, Ret. Maj. Gen. Deln Lorenzana, Brig. Gen. Yano, Filipino American community leaders and supporters, Philippine Embassy ofcials and military attaches. (photo by Jon Melegrito)

18 U.S. News Briefs

NEW YORK - Lorna G. Schoeld, the rst Filipino American district court judge, was sworn in by Chief US District Court Judge for the Southsive and assertive. Most importantly, real men never, ever, talk about their feelings. All of those misconceptions and more are the targets of a new group on campus whose aim is to help Filipino men navigate a universal search: the search for who they are. Lalake, or boys in Tagalog, is a new support group at SF State for male Filipino students to discuss and explore their cultural and gender identities in a safe, protected space. Its a place to talk. Started through a collaboration between Filipino-American history professor Eric Pido and Ismael de Guzman, a university counselor, the group meets once a week in Burk Hall in the hope that an open forum can heal the wounds for men exploring what it means to be Filipino. The idea for Lalake came from the sheer number of male Filipino students that would come to Pido with the same identity struggles time and time again, he said. liberation of the Philippines in 1945. She was awarded due recognition by the American government as a Deserving Guerilla

April 15, 2013

Lorna assumes post as NY district court judge

Queens College-Fitzgerald Gym, hosted by the New York State Taekwondo Federation. Jaron Rothbaum, 8, won a gold in sparring competition, while Jamie Schimmer, 6, received a gold in poomse/forms. Both Rothbaum and Schimmer are now qualied to compete for the 2013 USAT National Championship scheduled in July in Chicago, Illinois. noted that Filipino Americans are the largest Asian population in California and continues to grow, yet the story of Filipinos contributions to the farm labor movement is an untold part of California history. The goal of AB 123 is to supplement Californias public school instruction on its rich farm worker history, explained Bonta, who is the rst Filipino American to be elected to the State Legislature. Latino farm worker icon Dolores Huerta, who was inducted into the California Hall of Fame, stated that although she rarely had time to testify in support of legislation, she did not want to miss this historic opportunity to support AB 123.

No more illegal immigrants - AP

The Associated Presss AP Stylebook made some changes in how we describe people living in a country illegally. Senior Vice President and Executive Editor Kathleen Carroll explains the thinking behind the decision: The Stylebook no longer sanctions the term illegal immigrant or the use of illegal to describe a person. Instead, it tells users that illegal should describe only an action, such as living in or immigrating to a country illegally. AP has rejected descriptions such as undocumented because it is not precise. A person may have plenty of documents, just not the ones required for legal residence.) The new section on mental health issues argues for using credibly sourced diagnoses instead of labels. Saying someone was diagnosed with schizophrenia instead of schizophrenic, for example.

Lorna G. Schoeld ern District of New York Loretta A. Preska at the ceremonial court room on Pearl Street in Manhattan on March 28, 2013. Over 100 guests, including Sen. Chuck E. Schumer (D-New York) who recommended her to President Obama, Lornas partner Stephen Landsman and her daughter, close friends and colleagues witnessed the event. A proclamation from President Obama was read as Schoeld, clad in black robes, stood up to be sworn in. Then she climbed the stairs to sit alongside her judicial peers and the Chief Judge. Schoeld is the rst Filipino American to serve as an Article III U.S. Federal court judge. During the reception that followed, Judge Schoeld received the congratulations from Schumer, Temple University School of Law Dean JoAnne A. Epps, and others.

Fe Tolentino of World War II. She worked with the Philippine governments Commission on Elections; managed and operated a family-owned theater business before going to Vietnam where she was the chief documentation ofcer of the Army and Air Force at Nhatrang Depot until the fall of Saigon in 1971. Predeceased by her husband, Jonas Tolentino, she is survived by her children, Erly Cortez, Pepe Tolentino, John Tolentino and Frayda Ascrate; nine grandchildren; seven great-grandchildren and various in-laws, nieces, nephews and other relatives.

Virgin the best, United the worst

NEW YORK - Virgin America did the best job of ying customers last year while United Airlines was the worst, though passengers experienced overall better performance, a study showed. The performance of the 14 leading carriers in 2012 was about the same as the best year ever in 2011, according to the 23rd annual national Airline Quality Rating (AQR), which ranks airlines based on U.S. Department of Transportation gures. The industry improved in two of four areas: on-time performance and baggage handling. Involuntary denied boardings and customer complaint rated were higher, the study said. Virgin America had the best baggage handling rate, 0.87 mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers, and American Eagle had the worst, at 5.80 mishandled bags per 1,000 passengers. Hawaiian Airlines, owned by Hawaiian Holdings Inc, was best at sticking to schedules, while Skywest Incs ExpressJet and AMR Corps American Airlines were the worst, the study showed.

Jessica Sanchez returns to Idol

LOS ANGELES - Filipino American Jessica Sanchez late last month performed at the elimination round of the 2013 American Idol show and sang a tune from her rst single and rst solo album Me, You & The Music. Sanchez, the second placer in American Idol last year, performed the song with R&B star Ne-yo. She told Balitang America that she was initially nervous about doing the performance on the Idol stage, but she eventually got over her jitters. I just let go because I was, like: Girl, youre not gonna be judged tonight, Sanchez said. She also pointed out that having Ne-yo on hand for the performance helped her get over her nervousness. About her rst single and rst solo album, Sanchez explained that she had a big hand in crafting her music. Sanchez also conrmed that she will be a guest star on the hit musical TV show, Glee.Sanchezs two-episode arc on Glee will air in May. Later this year, in June, Sanchez will again return to the Philippines to promote her rst solo album.

Pinoy Taekwondos winning streak

NEW YORK - Former Philippine Team Taekwondo champion turned coach Rodolfo Valenzuela Jr. has produced several gold medalists among his students in the Philippines. Now based in New York, he continues that winning streak as a teacher and coach of Taekwondo at Central Park in Manhattan. Just recently, two of his students, bagged gold medals at the 2013 USAT New York State Championships held March 16 at

Tribute to Filam labor movement

SACRAMENTO, California - A bill requiring California public schools to instruct students on the contributions of Filipino Americans to the farm labor movement unanimously passed the Assembly Education Committee on March 20. AB 123 will now move to the Assembly Appropriations Committee and, if successful, it will go to the oor for a full Assembly vote. Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland), the bills sponsor,

APAICs leadership award for 2013

WASHINGTON D.C. Applications are open for the 2013 APAICS National Leadership Academy. The annual Academy gives Asian Pacic American leaders the tools to successfully reach their goals, whether they are to be elected to a higher political ofce or coalition building. Academy alumni include Representative Colleen Hanabusa (D-Hawaii) and Hawaii State Representative and APAICS Board of Directors Member Scott Nishimoto. This year, the Academy will be held from May 9th and 10th at the Washington Hilton in Washington, D.C. on 1919 Connecticut Ave NW. The Academy will be split into two separate tracks for local elected ofcials (Day 1) and community activists (Day 2).

Filam guerrilla dies in NJ at age 87

BERGENFIELD - Fe Tolentino (Pening), of Bergeneld, New Jersey died March 25 at age of 87. She was born in the Philippines and came to the United States in 1981. Before retiring in 1987, she worked at Bradleys in Hackensack. During World War II, she joined the underground movement, Filipino American Irregular Troops conducting intelligence surveillance until the

FASA starts search for Pinoy identity

SAN FRANCISCO - A new student group fosters Filipino men in developing identity in Campus. Real men dont cry. Real men also dont talk about family issues, real men dont suffer, and real men are aggres-

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Flirter in Chief apologizes!

WASHINGTON D.C. - President Obama has apologized to California Attorney General Kamala Harris for saying she was the best-looking attorney general in the country during a Democratic fundraiser April 4. Obamas comment stirred up a controversy, particularly in the California press. White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said April 5 that after the event, Obama called Harris to apologize for the distraction created by his comments. They are old friends, good friends and he did not want in any way to diminish the attorney generals professional accomplishments and her capabilities, he said. Asked whether Obama only apologized for the distraction, Carney claried that he apologized for the remark. A spokesman for Harris also said that she and the president had a great conversation and she strongly supports him. The unusual slip came during a Democratic fundraiser in Atherton, California. While toggling through the routine introductions of local dignitaries, Obama offered effusive praise for Harris.

RNC reaches out to Asians; Mail

WASHINGTON D.C. - As part of its campaign to include minorities and Asians in its new outreach program, the Republican National Committee chaired by Reince Priebus has included the Manila Mail in its mailing list. The latest press release to the Mail was about the speech of Mr. Priebus at the National Press Club breakfast March 18 titled The Party of Growth and Opportunity. Priebus said the loss in November was a wake up call that spurred the GOP to initiate the most public and most comprehensive post-election review in the history of any national party.. The review, he said, explained the reasons why the Republicans lost in the presidential race. Our message was weak; our ground game was insufcient, we werent inclusive; we were behind in both data and digital and our primary and debate process needed improvement, Priebus declared. He said the ve most important areas where were taking immediate, substantive actions: messaging... demographic partners...campaign mechanics...technology... and the primary process. Excerpts: Our task will be to reach out to the most voters and build the best infrastructure ever. A passion for the issues

Reince Priebus drives good campaigns; and voters of all races, income levels, and backgrounds need to understand that our policies offer a chance for a brighter future. The report offered some specic examples of areas where Republicans fell short in this regard, highlighting the ways some groups of voters have been turned off. It also highlighted examples of Republican innovation - particularly among our governors - that have won over newvoters. These governors provide new ideas for the way forward.

President Obama with Kamala Harris, the best looking Attorney General in the US. You have to be careful to, rst of all, say she is brilliant and she is dedicated and she is tough, and she is exactly what youd want in anybody who is administering the law, and making sure that everybody is getting a fair shake, Obama said. He added: She also happens to be by far the best-looking attorney general in the country -- Kamala Harris is here. Its true. Come on. And she is a great friend and has just been a great supporter for many, many years. The married president took some ribbing for the comment, which teetered on the line of propriety.

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April 15, 2013

PAFC Helps Rebuild Classrooms

When Typhoon Sendong hit the southern Philippines at the end of 2011, the Board and Ofcers of PAFC quickly reacted by organizing back-to-back fundraisers, including a Happy Hour and an instant Alay Concert. In a matter of weeks, $8,000 was raised and turned over to Feed the Hungry for the rebuilding of classrooms in Indahag Elementary School (IES), Cagayan de Oro. Additional funds were provided by Jonathan and Terry Gaw of American Express, Kona Visayan Club of Hawaii, and FilAm Communities in Washington, DC, Kona and LasVegas. At the end of 2012, even before the classrooms were inaugurated, the classrooms were in use by fth graders. Indihag Elementary School compound holds several buildings, but some were damaged when the Sendong typhoon hit. Classrooms donated by PAFC and groups mentioned above hold 50 students each and came with desks, blackboards and other needed items. Chairman Ador Carreon of PAFC and his wife Nanette visited the classrooms last February 26 accompanied by their host Bong Pelaez, son of former Ambassador/Vice President Emmanuel Pelaez and regional chairman of the Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals. Mr. Carreon said he was pleased and proud of what he witnessed, Education is so important to Filipino families, so it was wonderful to see that PAFC was able to contribute classrooms for many children. He continued, I want to tell everyone back in Washington, DC, their contributions have brought much joy to these children. Principal of the Indahag Elementary School Karen C. Verdad is interviewed by ABS-CBN in front of the new classrooms.

Filvets protest Obamas inaction on equity claims

By Jennie L. Ilustre
Washington, D.C.-Area veterans protested the Obama administration inaction on denied one-time equity pension benets at a wreath-laying cerpino WWII veterans living in the Philippines. Some 4,000 of over 20,000 rejected veterans have applied for reconsideration. The US government has paid equity pensions to over 18,000 qualied

Filipino American veterans show support for those who were denied pensions. emony marking Bataan Day of Valor April9 Tuesday. The ceremony took place at the BataanCorregidor fountain in the WWII National Memorial here in the nations capital. President Barack Obama signed the stimulus law in 2009, which included the equity pension provision for Filipino and Filipino World War II veterans. Last year, advocates and the Philippine embassy urged Obama to issue an Executive Order to allow other ofcial documents certifying to the service of the rejected veterans, such as ofcial discharge papers. Under the law signed by Obama on Feb. 17, 2009, only those whose names are in the 1948 Revised Reconstructed Guerrilla Roster (RRGR) kept in Missouri, are qualied for the equity pension of $15,000 for Filipino American WWII veterans residing in the US and the Philippines, and $9,000 for Filiveterans in the Philippines and in the US. Remarked veteran Celestino Almeda, in an interview at a program held subsequently at the Philippine embassy: It has been six months since Obama formed his Interagency Working Group to solve our veterans service recognition problem. Weve been waiting and waiting. Nothing has happened. In a statement issued by the American Coalition for Filipino Veterans, of which he is a member, he noted: Our friend in the White House, Cabinet Secretary Chris Lu, resigned in January. He was the head of the Interagency Working Group. He has not been replaced. No recommendations have been made after two years of our talks with the White House staff, (then) Defense Secretary Leon Paneta and Veterans Administration Secretary (Eric) Shinseki.

PH marks Bataan
MANILA, Philippines - As the nation observes Araw ng Kagitingan April 9, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has called on all local government units (LGUs) to lead in the 2013 celebration by holding meaningful activities that will highlight the bravery and valor of our countrys veterans. Executive Order No. 203, Series of 1987 has declared April 9 of every year as Araw ng Kagitingan, and the theme for celebration this year is: Ang Beterano: Sigla at Inspirasyon ng Kabataan Tungo sa Tuwid na Daan. To ensure a meaningful observance, the Secretary of National Defense was tasked by the President to lead the celebrations and create a technical working group, with the DILG as one of its members. In this light, all local chief executives (LCEs) have been tasked to conduct activities in commemoration of the Araw ng Kagitingan in areas with historical value and to observe Philippine Veterans Week from April 5 to 11, 2013. The activities lined up for celebration include a wreath-laying ceremony which was held at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on

Oldest Bataan Death March vet honored

MANILA - Technical Sergeant Tranquilino Olarte Cabiling, 112, the oldest living survivor of the 1942 Death March, was given recognition for heroism during the 71st celebration of Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan. Day of Valor. Tranquilino Olarte Cabiling, left, and the Libingan ng mga Bayani are shown here on the eve of Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor. Cabiling was born on July 6, 1900, in Albuera, Leyte. He said he was among the thousands of Filipino and American soldiers who were forced to walk 145 kilometers to Camp ODonnell in Tarlac from Bataan by Japanese soldiers after the fall of Bataan and Corregidor. President Benigno Aquino III gave Cabiling a Plaque of appreciation in March during the celebration of the Armys 116th Anniversary. Military records say Cabiling joined the service on Aug. 3, 1922, and became part of the United States Armed Forces in the Far East.

The Dambana ng Kagitingan (Shrine of Valor) a 92-meter cross erected at 555 meters above sea level in Mount Samat, Bataan was again the focal point of attention April 9 as the nation celebrated Araw ng Kagitingan. April 5, and a tribute to all Filipino heroes at Filipino Heroes Memorial in Cavite which was held on April 7. Araw ng Kagitingan proper will be observed at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan.

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ranked 3rd-4th with UNA bet and San Juan City Rep. Joseph Victor JV Ejercito, who clawed back Februarys positional loss Paolo Benigno Bam Aquino IV, was in sole 10th place with an unchanged score of 42%, from 9th-10th previously, but fellow leap up from 16th in February.

Neophytes with names, money top Senate surveys

MANILA - Money, power and name recognition seem to be putting some neophytes in the Senate race in the Magic 12 Circle. The three are Nancy Binay, daughter of Vice President Jejomar Binay and sister of Makati Mayor J. Binay; Rep. Jack Enrile, son of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile and Rep. JV Estrada, son of former president Joseph Estrada. Others in or near the circle are Paolo Bam Aquino, cousin of President Aquino III; Rep. Cynthia Villar, wife of former Sen. Manuel Villar; Rep. Juan Angara, son of Sen. Edgardo Angara and Grace Poe Lamanzares, daughter of Fernando Poe, Jr. Team PNoy takes the lead in latest SWS-BW poll. On the other hand, Pulse Asia survey says that of the total of 33 candidates for senator, at least nine from Team PNoy and six from the opposition United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) have statistical chances of winning a place in the 12 senatorial seats. Pulse Asia said majority of probable winners were re-electionist members of Congress, but two neophyte politicians, Nancy Binay and Grace Poe, were strong contenders. Administration bets still dominate the race for the 12 Senate seats up for grabs in the May 13 midterm elections, but with fresh positional changes it is too early for the Team PNoy and United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) lineups -- and particularly the candidates in contention -- to rest easy. As of the March 15-17 poll, six administration and two

Statistically below 12th

In 16th-17th, meanwhile,

Grace Poe Lamanzares Sen. Loren Legarda opposition bets are in statistical positions to take the top eight seats, while four Team PNoy and three UNA candidates are competing for the last four. Given the statistical ties, the possible Team PNoy-UNA score could range from 10-2 to 7-5, the SWS said. Still leading the list of likely winners was reelectionist Sen. Lorna Regina Loren B. Legarda of the Nationalist Peoples Coalition, although she saw her support falling ve points to 59% in the latest survey. The Nationalista Partys Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano -- another reelectionist -- rose to number two with the backing of 57% of the respondents (from 58% previously) after staying third in four prior SWS-BW polls that began in August last year. Erstwhile second-placer Sen. Francis Joseph Chiz G. Escudero, meanwhile, found himself Rep. JV Estrada to 9-10th. Mr. Ejercito, the son of former President Joseph E. Estrada and a rst-termer in Congress, added ve points to share a 48% score with Mr. Escudero, who lost 14 points. Battling for 5th to 7th place were Maria Lourdes Nancy S. Binay (UNA), former Las Pinas City Rep. Cynthia Misis Hanepbuhay A. Villar (NP-PNoy) and reelectionist Sen. Aquilino Martin Koko D. Pimentel III (Partido Demokratikong Pilipino-Lakas ng Bayan-PNoy), each with scores of 47%. Ms. Binay, the daughter of Vice-President Jejomar C. Binay, was 7th in the last survey. Her score was unchanged. Mr. Pimentel, the son of former Sen. Aquilino Pimentel, was previously 5th-6th. Ms. Villar, wife of outgoing Sen. Manuel B. Villar, fell from 4th in February. Their previous scores were 48% and 53%, respectively. Reelectionist Antonio Sonny V. Trillanes IV (NPPNoy) was the sole candidate not to have moved, staying in 8th with a score of 44% -- down two points from last month. In another rebound, reelectionist Sen. Gregorio Gringo B. Honasan (UNA) took 9th place with a score of 43%, after falling to 15th last month. President Benigno Simeon Noynoy S. C. Aquino IIIs cousin, Sen. Chiz Escudero administration bet Grace PoeLlamanzares was not as fortunate as she fell six places to 11th via an eight points lower score of 40%. Ms. Llamanzares, former Movie and Television Review and Classication Board chief, is the daughter of deceased actor Fernando Poe Jr., who unsuccessfully ran for president in 2004. The 12th slot went to Aurora Rep. Juan Edgardo M. Angara of the Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino-PNoy, who scored an unchanged 39%. He ranked 11th12th in the last survey. Still in striking distance of the last four slots in the Magic 12, according to the SWS, were Cagayan Rep. Juan Ponce Jack Enrile (UNA) and former Senator Ramon Jun B. Magsaysay, Jr. (Liberal Party-PNoy) -- tied for 13th-14th with scores of 37%, and former senator Juan Miguel Migz F. Zubiri who was 15th. Mr. Enrile, the son of Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile, has yet to recover from rankings downturns seen in prior surveys but the latest result was not markedly different from Februarys 13th place. His score was down a point to 37%. Mr. Zubiri, meanwhile, slipped out of the Magic 12 for the rst time as his support fell to 35% from 39%. Mr. Magsaysay added ve points to 37% for the were former senators Maria Ana Consuelo Jamby A. Madrigal (LP-PNoy) and Richard Dick J. Gordon (UNA), with scores of 33% each; former partylist Rep. Ana Theresia Risa B. Hontiveros (Akbayan, 18th, 29%); and former senator Ernesto Manong Ernie Maceda (UNA, 19th, 18%). Sharing 20th-21st places were the presidents aunt, Margarita Tingting Cojuangco (UNA) and Zambales Rep. Maria Milagros Esperanza Mitos H. Magsaysay (UNA, 14% each), while Eduardo Bro. Eddie Villanueva (Bangon Pilipinas, 13%) and Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Ed S. Hagedorn (independent, 11%) placed 22nd and 23rd, respectively. With single-digit scores were partylist Rep. Teodoro A. Casino (Makabayan, 7%), Marwil Llasos (Ang Kapatiran, 4%), Samson Alcantara (Social Justice Society, 4%), Richard Penson (Independent, 4%), Ramon Montano (Independent, 4%), Baldohero Falcone (Democratic Party of the Philippines, 4%), Rizalito Yap David (Ang Kapatiran, 3%), Christian Seneres (DPP, 3%), John Carlos De Los Reyes (Ang Kapatiran, 3%) and Greco Antonious Beda Belgica (DPP, 2%). Two percent of the respondents in the SWS-BW had no answer or were undecided, while 5% of the ballots counted were ruled to have invalid markings.

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FilAms join D.C.... from page 1
Filipinos and Filipino American community leaders and supporters in the DC area joined the nationwide Call to Action to press immediate passage of an immigration reform bill that would provide a path to citizenship for 11 million undocumented immigrants and protect family reunication provisions. The rallyists on Capitol Hill were made up of Hispanics, Asians, religious communities, immigrant rights coalitions, labor organizations, and others who came from other cities in the East Coast to hear speakers chant Si, Si Puwede (Yes We Can) and The Time Is Now. A bi-partisan group of eight senators are expected to introduce a comprehensive immigration reform bill as early as next week. The rally was organized mainly to put pressure on the senators not to impose any restrictions on the path to citizenship for the undocumented immigrants. Asian Pacic American Islander (AAPI) advocates are also concerned about attacks on family reunication provisions, particularly the elimination of family visas. Representing the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA) were leaders and supporters from the Capitol Region, who also participated in congressional visits earlier in the day. Former Maryland Delegate David Valderrama led a delegation that met with legislative aides of U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara Mikulski. We should not eliminate family visas in exchange for more high skilled foreign workers, Valderrama said. That would undermine our cherished values of family unity. America benets when immigrant families come together. They work hard, pay taxes, buy homes and start job-creating businesses. In a statement, NaFFAA National Chair Ed Navarra called on community leaders to let their voices heard by calling or writing their senators and US representatives. This issue directly affects our families and our communities, he said. Lets take this opportunity to engage our political leaders and let them know how much we care about reuniting families. For four hours under the hot sun, the demonstrators urged Congress to speed up the legalization of the millions of undocumented immigrants and the retention of the family-based visa provisions that are so dear to the hearts of Asians. Some Republicans and Democrats are inclined to present a bill that would reduce the quota for family-based visas. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid (D-Nevada) had earlier sounded ambivalent about the limited family-based visa as proposed by the Senate Gang of Eight. He told the Asian Journal recently he does not want to make the family-based visa backlog worse. At the same time he said he is inclined to recommend more relaxed provisions on family-based petitions in the bill being hammered out in the Senate. Earlier in Los Angeles, Asian American Pacic Islander (AAPI) advocacy groups led by the Asian Pacic American Legal Center (APALC) made a call for an end to attacks on family reunication. At the press conference held at the Beverly Union Park, Rep. Judy Chu (27th District of California) joined a coalition of community organizations called API FIRE (Asian Pacic Islanders for Immigrant Rights & Enforcement) to ask Congress to legislate fair and just reform to immigration law while strengthening the family immigration system. Rep. Chu also called for immigrant families to make their voices heard and express their concerns over immigration reform, particularly on family reunication provisions. The group called for protection of the provision in immigration law that allows citizens and legal permanent residents (LPR) to be reunited with their immediate family from their home countries through family-based visas.

April 15, 2013

Filipinos and Filipino Americans joined the Family Reunication Rally last April 10, at the West Lawn of the US Capitol. The National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NaFFAA), was one of the organizing association of the rally. Photo: Vida Benavidez, Mitzi Pickard, Maurese Owens, Jon Melegrito, Naomi Tacuyan, and Jacko leads the team at the rally. (Bing Cardenas Branigin)

Photo shows the massive rally in front of Capitol Hill April 10. Bur Sen. Lindsey Graham Chu went on to explain that there are those in Congress who (R-SC), one of the Gang of Eight believe that in order to make drafting the reform bill, said he room for work-based visas, the wants to reserve green cards for number of family-based visas the countrys economic needs and less of family-based petineed to be trimmed down. Basically, they propose that tions. Reid noted he is condent LPRs will no longer be able to bring their siblings to the US, and that his recommendation to parents will no longer be able to allow more family-based petipetition for their children who tions will get the support of are married and above the age other legislators during deliberaof 21, and effectively preventing tions in Congress. Reid also said his proposal reunication among immigrant will address the exceedingly families. Today there is a huge back- lengthy twenty-year wait to get a log of family-based petitions family-based petition approved. with Filipinos topping the list. He cited the cases of Filipinos Thousands have to wait up to 20 who hae to wait 20 years for their years for visa petitions for broth- green cards to be approved. ers, sisters, parents and grandThe Gang of Eight has parents. sought to make the pathway January 17 grounding of the Guardian. Salvors nished extricating the ship, which had to be dismantled piece by piece, on March 30. According to the report of the assessment team, results indicate the damaged area spans 2,345.67 square meters - smaller than the 4,000 square meters originally estimated by an American team, WWF-Philippinesd said in a statement. Under Republic Act 10067 or the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Act of 2009, a ne of about $600 or P24,000 per square meter of damaged reef is mandatory. Further park rule violations

tough enough so that Republicans can convince their party that its not amnesty but not so onerous that they lose support from the left, and risk repeating mistakes from past reform efforts. Democrats are under intense pressure from the White House, labor unions and immigrant advocates to craft as clear of a path as possible to legal status and citizenship. That means no border-security benchmarks that must be met before undocumented immigrants can secure citizenship. No exorbitant nes and fees. And realistic requirements for proving work history, learning English, and passing criminal background checks. boosted the nal total to slightly less than P60 million, or roughly $1.4 million, the organization said. WWF-Philippines vice-chair and CEO Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan said the ne to be paid to TMO should help it build a signicant endowment fund to sustain its operations through the years. The basic issue here is not tourism. It is food security. This fresh infusion of funds will allow TMO to concentrate on putting the money to good use - from building a better Ranger Station to upgrading their capacity to manage the countrys most productive coral reef, he said.

Manila duns US $1.4-M... from page 1

eign Affairs Albert del Rosario, during his meeting in Washington D.C. with US Secretary of State John Kerry, secured the assurance of Kerry that the US will pay for damages to the reef. But he said a joint body will determine the cost of the damage. The ne of $1.4 million is but a slap on the wrist, as the salvage operation has been estimated to cost close to $45 million, she said. Songco said a letter requesting compensation would be sent to the US embassy next week, stressing this is the amount required by a law passed to protect the reef, a Unesco World Heritage site in a remote area of the Sulu Sea. Meanwhile, the US Navy relieved the captain and ofcers of the Guardian for failing to follow the rules in navigating through the waters of the Philippines. It was on its way to Indonesia after stopping over in Subic two months ago. A team of divers and researchers from the TMO and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF)-Philippines just nished assessing the full damage of the

In this photo taken on March 30, 2013, and released by the Philippine Coast Guard on April 1, the stern of the minesweeper USS Guardian is transferred to another ship after being lifted out of the water at the Tubbataha Reef, a World Heritage site.

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a.m. (designated country time) until May 13 at 6:00 p.m., the DFA said. Daily voting schedules will thus be at least eight hours a day, it added, and Embassies and Consulates General may adopt a exible schedule to accommodate the most number of voters. All votes, including those sent through the mail, should be received by the end of the voting period. Our Embassies and Consulates General are well-prepared to conduct the overseas absentee voting process. Our personnel have undergone a three-day training in Manila last February to prepare them for their duties in this election, Seguis said. He added similar trainings in Los Angeles, Madrid, Abu Dhabi, Riyadh, Hong Kong and Singapore were also held as part of preparations for the elections Overseas voters may only elect the President, Vice President, 12 senators and one party-list representative. The OAV involves three modes of voting: automated counting in Hong Kong and Singapore, personal voting, and postal voting. The DFA thus reminded Progress for the AAPI Community; An overview of recent Federal Agency accomplishments and priorities for the AAPI community and list of commission members as an in-person resource across the country. If you are in the process of developing an event, we would like to hear about your plans to observe AAPI Heritage Month this year. Share your vision of theWide American Earth through this feedback form <http:// links.govdelivery.com/track. Your feedback will help determine our future priorities and contribute to our ongoing convoters of the automated and personal modes of voting to bring their passports or other personal identication documents. In the automated mode, voters will have their names veried against the list of registered voters by the Special Board of Election Inspectors, similar to the process in the Philippines. Voters will be given a ballot, a folder and a pen <#>, and will then be directed to the voting area. Candidates names will be listed in alphabetical order on the ballot, and voters will have to shade the ovals beside the names of their chosen candidates. The ballot will then be fed into the Precinct Count Optical Scan (PCOS) machine which will read the votes on both sides of the ballot. The voters index nger will be marked with indelible ink, and they will afx their thumb mark in the list of voters. The same process goes for personal voting, except that a compartment will be provided for voters to drop their ballots in. Postal voters meanwhile will receive a mailing packet containing their ballot and the ballot envelope. versations with AAPI communities. For more information, please contact: White House Initiative on Asian American and Pacic Islanders, 400 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington DC 20202 E-Mail: WhiteHouseAAPI@ed.gov <mailto: WhiteHouseAAPI@ed.gov> www. whitehouse.gov/aapi <http://links.govdelivery. com/track? WASHINGTON D.C. Asian Pacic American pioneers will be honored at APAICS 19th Annual Gala Awards Dinner on Wednesday, May 8th at the Washington Hilton on 1919 ConThey will have to accomplish the ballot, afx their right thumb mark at the lower portion, tear off that portion and place it inside the ballot envelope. Before sending their ballots back by mail to their respective Embassies or Consulates General, voters will have to afx their name and signature on the left-hand corner of the ballot envelopes. Registered Filipino seafarers may likewise personally vote at the Embassy or Consulate General where they are currently docked. Votes will be counted at the Embassy or Consulate General where the votes were sent or cast. The DFA said the counting will start immediately after the close of polling precincts, and will be done uninterrupted in public until all the votes have been counted. In line with the start of the OAV, a migrants rights group will organize a gathering in Manila of relatives of overseas Filipino workers (OFW) to encourage their loved ones abroad to exercise and guard their right to vote in the monthlong OAV. necticut Ave NW. The Gala is a chance to celebrate the milestones and trailblazers of the Asian Pacic American community as part of Asian Pacic American Heritage Month. We look forward to seeing old friends and meeting new ones this year, Apaics said. To purchase tickets or request information on sponsorship packages, please contact Helen Ruggiero at (202) 296-9200 or helen@apaics.org. More information is also available on our website Del Rosario said the Balikatan exercises were a very important part of the Philippines efforts to secure US support. Del Rosario added it was vital for the Philippines to have more US forces rotate throughout the year, and not just for scheduled exercises such as Balikatan. This will be crucial in our efforts in the short term to establish our minimum credible defense posture, and in the long term to build a more robust national defense structure, he said, without giving details. The Philippines said last year it would allow more US troops to visit for short durations, such as for naval port calls, although it ruled out a return of permanent bases.

OAVs start mid-term... from page 1

May 13, 2013. But many overseas voters will be going to the polls without knowing who the candidates are, their platform of governance, their qualications and other details that are needed to cast an intelligent vote. The Commission on Elections has relied on the 2 TV channels to inform the overseas voter probably because of lack of funds. But last week, several Comelec commissioners ew on a junket ostensibly to check the readiness of the embassies and consulates abroad to perform their task. The overseas Filipinos are our new heroes. Beyond the economic contributions and the sacrices they do to ensure their families of a good life, they are now also given their political right through the OAV. It is time that they exercise the right to vote, DFA Undersecretary Rafael Seguis said in a statement posted on the departments website. Seguis also serves as chair of the OAV Secretariat. OAV Secretaruat vicechair Nestor Padalhin likewise assured the public that this years OAV will be honest, orderly and peaceful. The poll body has automated the election in seven selected countries for overseas Filipino voters. It also announced that 36 precinct count optical scan machines will be dispatched and used for Filipino voters in Hong Kong, Singapore, Abu Dhabi, Jeddah, Kuwait, Dubai, and Riyadh for the May 13 mid-term polls. Of the seven countries, Hong Kong has the highest number of voters with 101,482, followed by Singapore with 36,323 registered voters while Abu Dhabi has 21,418 registered voters. The Foreign Affairs department said the 988,384 OAVs marked a milestone for overseas Filipinos who are working or living abroad. Of the total number, there are 398,554 OAV new registrants. These voters will be casting or sending in their votes in the 93 Philippine Embassies and Consulates General around the world. The OAV will last for 31 days starting April 13 at 8:00

Bulosans poem theme... from page 1

AAPI Heritage Month is an annual call to action for the AAPI community and an opportunity for the country to see its breadth of its diversity in pluribus unum. The White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacic Islanders is providing state and local AAPI commissions and organizations with resources to mark AAPI Heritage Month and further develop ways to address issues facing the AAPI community, ranging from health care and language accessibility, to small business development, education, and immigration reform. The following resources are provided to help guide your heritage month conversations: AAPI Population Info-graphic; A demographic illustration of AAPI population growth across the United States from the year 2000 through 2010;Policy Priorities Info-graphic; A detailed illustration of the White House AAPI Initiatives policy priorities on health, economic and community development, civil and immigration rights, and educational opportunities; Continuing

Manila hits China anew... from page 1

and exaggerated maritime and territorial claims have not only created uncertainty but have undermined the rule of law. Three days earlier, Del Rosario met with US Secretary of State John Kerry and US Defense Secretary C. Hagel in Washington D.C. He agreed with the top US ofcials that conicting claims in the region be resolved peacefully through arbitration and the rule of law. But in Manila, Del Rosario said Chinas agressive moves have posed a serious risks to regional peace and stability. He lambasted China as thousands of US and Filipino troops began annual military exercises April 5. He said the exercises were vital to building Philippine defence capabilities against the rising threat of China. Told about the tension in North Korea, Del Rosario said in a separate interview the Philippines will help the United States if it is attacked. While he did not mention China in his Balikatan speech, he later told reporters he was referring specically to China. Tensions have escalated in recent years as China has sought to stamp its authority over the region. The Philippines has accused China of occupying a shoal close to its main island, and appealed to the United Nations to rule on the validity of Chinese claims to the resource-rich sea. The Philippines has sought closer diplomatic and military ties with the United States, its former colonial ruler, amid the rising tensions. The two countries share a 61-year-old mutual defence pact,

Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario links arms with US Amb. Harry Thomas and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin during the opening of the Balikatan exercise. which requires that the United said. Balikatan, with its comStates comes to the aid of the Philippines if it is attacked. But plicated and complete set of unlike the US treaty with NATO exercises, is an important concountries, its response to an tribution in not only preparing attack on the Philippines would both our armed forces to work have to be approved by the US together but also in building my countrys own capacity to Congress. Del Rosario said the Balika- defend itself. The manoeuvres involve tan (shoulder-to-shoulder) exermore than 8,000 US and Filicises were very important. For my country we need to pino troops, 30 military aircraft secure our borders and protect including a dozen US F/A-18 our territorial integrity more vig- Hornets and three naval vessels, orously than we have before, he the two countries said.

24 Entertainment

April 15, 2013

Sean-Catherine wedding off?

Despite reports that The Bachelor (Sean Lowe) and Filipino American Catherine Guidici are heading for the rocks, the two are still proceeding with plans to marry. Lowes Dancing With The Stars partner Peta Murgatroyd has revealed how he feels about Catherine. Murgatroyd told Hollywoodlife.Com that Catherine visits Sean on set and she told us how Sean really feels about his Bachelors ancee and how they are so in love. Catherine even gives him critiques on his dancing. Peta, 26, has been tearing up the dance oor with Sean, 29, for the last two weeks on DWTS, and she knows all about his and Catherines romance! Catherine, 26, arrives each week to cheer on Sean and Peta has now revealed that she even visits him while training! They are so in love, its kind of sickening! Peta told *HollywoodLife.com* at McDonalds Premium McWrap Launch Party Paramount Studios on March 28. We asked Peta if Sean visits Catherine while training, and she said He does, today he wanted to see her earlier but we needed to get our dance done. And Catherine even comes to practice and gives Sean advice! She does sometimes and gives him critiques He likes to have a third eye. How cute! Catherine is always seen sitting beside Seans mom and dad *Sherry* and Jay Lowe at DWTS, and Peta says they love her. They get along great, his

Kris meets an old Frenchman!

Fresh from a two-week vacation in Europe with her sons, actress-host Kris Aquino returned to her morning show KrisTV with a new inspiration - man she met in France! Alam mo may na meet ako sa France, she told guest coinyo. Aquino even said her son with ex-husband James Yap approves of the man. Pumasa kay Bimby, kaya tignan na lang natin. Lets pray. Lets pray dahil gusto niyang mag-build ng mga buildings sa

A changed Kris smiles as she recounts meeting an old Frenchman during her trip to Europe. host Melissa Cantiveros. Pero Philippines. So ipagdarasal ko yun nga ka-edad na siya ng yan dahil mas maraming trapapa mo ...a little more (than 60 baho para sa maraming Pilipino. years old). Sobrang successful na Pray with me, okay? Aquino negosyante at darating siya dito said. sa Pilipinas sa June dahil gusto Aquino left for a planned niyang bumili ng island. Hindi vacation in Europe last March 23, ba sosyal? amid a new spat with her former Asked if the man looks husband, who has been ordered younger than his age, Aquino by the court to stay at least 100 replied: Ay hindi masyado. Okay na meters away from Aquino and yan, Melai. Papakilala ko sa their son.

Dolphys daughter makes waves in show biz

Gossips about a breakup between Bachelor Sean Lowe and Catherine Guidici was sparked by Seans participation in Dancing with the Stars with his prtner (inset) Peta Murgatroyd. Mom is great! Everyone adores Catherine and she is such a pleasure to be around! She is a sweetheart, his Mom loves Catherine. So sweet! Sean clearly picked a winner! Born to Comedy King Dolphy and singer-actress Zsa Zsa Padilla, it was inevitable that Zia Quizon would end up in performance by a female recording artist, and song of the year. Her self-titled album under Pol-

BIR charges actress with tax evasion

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has led a criminal complaint with the Department of Justice against Solenn Marie Adea Heusaff for willful attempt to evade or defeat tax and for deliberate failure to supply correct and accurate information. Charged with Heusaff was her certied public accountant (CPA) Teolo Magno Jr. who certied the formers nancial statements in violation of Section 257 of the Tax Code. Heusaff is an actress, television host, model, singer and endorser of various products in the Philippines with residential address at 17 Tamarind Street, Forbes Park, Makati and business address at 1970 Kasoy Street, Dasmarinas Village, Makati. Investigation revealed that she declared a gross income of only P6.73 million in her income A comparison of the gross income declared by Heusaff in her 2011 ITR as against the income she earned for the same year certied by her income payors disclosed that she substantially underdeclared her taxable income for 2011 by P6.65 million or by 99 percent. Consequently, Heusaff was sued for a total tax liability amounting to P3.6 million for deciency income tax covering taxable year 2011, inclusive of surcharges and interests. For his part, Magno was sued for issuing an unqualied opinion in his certication of the nancial statements of Heusaff despite the latters aforementioned underdeclaration in her reported income.

Zia Quizon show biz. After barely two years in the industry, Zia is steadily making waves in the music scene via her fun and breezy rst single Ako na Lang, which perfectly showcases her distinct vocal tonea curious mix of Norah Jones and Up Dharma Downs Armi Millare. The song won for Zia three awards in the 25th Awit Awards last year: best performance by a new female recording artist, best yeast Records has also reached gold status (7,500 copies sold). Though undeniably talented, Zia is the rst to admit that, personality-wise, she wasnt built to revel in the spotlight.Ive always been shy, even as a kid, Zia told the Inquirer. So, if at times she comes across as uncomfortable onstage, thats because the 21-year-old is still trying to conquer her inhibitions, one performance at a time.

Solenn Marie Adea Heusaff tax return (ITR) for taxable year 2011.

April 15, 2013

25

Veggies prolong life

Animal meat is not really essential for health and life, and sh and vegetables maximize longevity. There is no question that diet plays a very important role in the development of cardiovascular diseases, metabolic illnesses, and some forms of cancer, especially of the gastrointestinal tract. One particular diet - one high in saturated fat and cholesterol, and low in ber - consisting mainly of red meats (pork, beef, non-skim dairy products, etc) and eggs, has been branded as unhealthy. Voluminous clinical studies have shown beyond a reasonable doubt that excess serum cholesterol, specically chronically elevated HDL (the bad cholesterol) and riglycerides, is the culprit in the more than half a million deaths from heart attack each year in the United States alone. This translates to one person dying from a cardiovascular illness every 60 seconds. And this does not even include the mortality from cancer.

Probate
QUESTION: In your last column, you mentioned something about probate which occurs when someone dies leaving behind some assets. Can you explain what probate is? ANSWER: Probate is the legal procedure in which the decedents debts are paid and the remaining property is distributed to the beneciaries named in the decedents Will. Although the processes and procedures that govern probate vary from state to state, in general the process begins when the decedents Will is submitted to the probate court designated by the relevant state to handle probate cases. Typically, if the probate court declares the Will be to be valid and legitimate, the Will is publicly recorded and the executor or personal representative designated as such in the Will by the decedent is then authorized to carry out the decedents wishes pursuant to the decedents Will. When the decedents estate is ultimately settled, the decedents executor or personal representative les a nal accounting of the decedents estate. In some states, if the value of the decedents estate is very small, the estate does not have to go through a formal probate process. Note that if the decedent died without a will (i.e., intestate), many states would still require that the decedents estate go through the probate process, although the applicable probate process may be markedly different from the probate process that would normally apply if the person died testate. In any event, as I discussed in my last column, if a person dies intestate, the states intestacy/inheritance laws will apply and the decedent estate will be distributed accordingly. In this column, however, we will focus on the probate process that applies when a person dies testate (i.e., has a valid Will). I emphasize that the probate process can be exceedingly complicated, and readers of this column are advised to seek competent legal assistance as each situation is unique and each presents its own set of issues. QUESTION: Can you explain briey the probate process in Virginia? ANSWER: Virginia has no separate probate court. To probate an estate in Virginia, you must go to the Circuit Court of the county in which the decedent resided at the time of death. If the decedent died in a nursing home or similar institution, that persons residence is presumed to be where he or she resided prior to becoming a patient at such institution. There is no set time frame within which a Will must be probated. To start the probate process, the executor named in the Will must schedule an appointment with the Probate Division of the relevant Circuit Court to probate the Will and qualify as executor. The named executor should be a Virginia resident. When the named executor is not a resident of Virginia, a Virginia resident must accompany the executor to the Probate Ofce to either co-qualify as a co-executor or be appointed as a resident agent. All executors in Virginia must be bonded, and the appropriate bond is usually set at the time the executor is qualied. The named executor must bring to the probate appointment the following (not inclusive): the original Will and codicils, if any (codicils are amendments to the Will); a certied copy of the death certicate; approximate dollar value of any solely held personal assets; approximate fair market value of real estate in Virginia deeded solely to the decedent or the value of the percentage owned by the decedent when the real estate is deeded as tenants-in-common; names, ages, and addresses of heirs at law; a check, cash or credit card to pay fees calculated during the probate appointment; a valid photo identication. Once qualied, the executor is required to do the following: (1) give notice of probate to interested parties and le an afdavit of notice; (2) le an inventory not later than four months after qualication date of the executor; (3) le a settlement of accounts or statement in lieu of accounts no later than 16 months after qualication date of the executor with the Commissioner of Accounts Ofce (not the Probate Division of the Circuit Court Clerks Ofce), until the estate is closed; (4) le income, inheritance, or estate taxes with the federal or state government; (5) notify the Commissioner of Accounts of any change in the executors address; (6) pay all probate taxes due to the Clerk

arteries causing hardening of the arteries and stenoses (blockages), many leading to heart attacks, strokes, or poor leg circulation. Animal fats also increase the risk for the formation of cancer, besides Alzheimers and obesity. Omega-3 fatty acids The good fats come from sh and is called Fish Oil or Omega-3 fatty acids. These substances are a natural blood thinner that prevents blood clot formation and minimizes hardening of the arteries. Thus, eating sh daily reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke, even among those who are diabetics and hypertensives (those with high blood pressure), provided these conditions are treated and well-controlled.

est life span. The studies of Dr. Paul Dudley on the Hunzas of Pakistan, who have amazing longevity, showed that they subsist on spartan and vegetarian diet of nuts, grains, fruits, vegetables, and a little goat milk. Fresh and/ or dried apricots are their staple food. The Hunzas lifespan is 140 years. While the inference is clearly there, more extensive controlled clinical studies on human subjects are needed to nd out with certainty if vegetarian diet, although already proven to be healthy, really improves longevity.

Vegetables and fruits

Vegetables and fruits have phytochemicals that are good for our body. Twenty-three epidemiological studies have shown that diet rich in grains and vegetables reduces the risk of colon cancer by 40%, and breast cancer by 25%. Some of the

The culprit
Cholesterol is a sterol, a complex alcohol constituent of animal fats and oils. If abnormally high in the blood stream, this substance forms plaques which adhere to the inner wall of of the Circuit Court; (7) pay all debts in the order required by law; (and (8) disburse remaining assets according to the Will. Completion of the probate processfrom qualication of the executor to disbursement of remaining assetsvaries from case to case, although Virginia law does impose time requirements on certain lings. Note also that, in some instances, probate may not be necessary. For example, if the decedents only asset is a motor vehicle, probate may not be necessary. Likewise, under certain circumstances, an estate valued between $15,001 and $50,000 may not be subject to probate. QUESTION: Can you explain briey the probate process in the District of Columbia? ANSWER: The probate process in the District of Columbia can be broken down into four general stages: (1) nd the Will and le it with the D.C. Superior Court Probate Division, and obtain D.C. Superior Court appointment of the decedents executor (referred to as personal representative in D.C.); (2) make an inventory of the assets the decedent owned at death and determine the value of each asset; (3) determine the debts, taxes and settlement expenses of the estate and pay them; and (4)

Diet and longevity

The proponents of vegetarian diet argue that studies have shown that the longest-lived animals had low-calorie vegetarian diet, and that rats fed high protein, high fat diet had the shortdistribute the remaining assets to the rightful beneciaries. In the District of Columbia, there are three different estate settlement procedures for probating an estate. By using the procedure that best suits your particular needs and circumstances, you should be able to save time and money during the estate settlement process. These are (1) unsupervised administration (also called informal probate administration); (2) supervised administration (also called formal probate administration); and (3) small estate administration. Unsupervised administration is the principal way estates are probated in the District of Columbia. Pursuant to D.C. law, estates are generally probated using the unsupervised or informal probate process unless the courts order differently. Informal estate administration is designed for most estates where there is little or no disagreement about how the assets of the estate should be distributed. Informal administration requires very little court participation. Supervised or formal administration is designed to provide more court involvement and oversight to the probate process. Supervised probate administration may be appropriate when (i) the estate includes complex arrangements

Continued on page 27
involving investments, real property, or other assets; (ii) interested persons anticipate a dispute concerning the proper distribution of the decedents assets; and/or (iii) one or more interested persons question the ability of the executor to fairly administer the estate. With formal administration, the D.C. Superior Court Probate Division closely monitors the executor throughout the probate process, and certain documents must be led periodically with the Court. Small estate administration is a simplied way of probating an estate with limited assets. Small estate administration is available only in estates with probate property valued at $40,000 or less (for persons dying on or after April 26, 2001). This is generally the simplest, fastest, and least expensive probate procedure. The small estate administration usually takes less than 60 days and, in some cases, it can be completed in as few as 10 days. A. Enrico C. Soriano, Esq., is the managing member of Axxis Law Group, PLLC (www.axxislaw. com). The answers and discussions provided in this column do not constitute legal advice, and no attorneyclient relationship is created hereby. You should consult a competent attorney for further assistance.

26

April 15, 2013

MUSTARD GREENS WITH DRIED SHITAKE MUSHROOMS

Mustard greens (mustasa) are nutritious, with huge amounts of vitamins and minerals. They are high in vitamin K which makes them a hearthealthy food. In addition, the dietary ber in mustards has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. They are also rich in Vitamins A, C, and E - all anti-oxidants and proven cancer ghters. Mustard greens are good eaten raw or cooked.

Ingredients:
3 large bunches of mustard greens 16 large pieces dried shitake mushrooms salt and pepper 1 teaspoon light soy sauce

1/2 teaspoon fresh lemon thyme, chopped 2 tablespoon cornstarch, diluted in 3 tablespoons of water

Methods:
Cut out the mustard green leaves and save the stems. The leaves can be saved for another recipe. Cut the stems into squares approximately 1 size. Wash the stems thoroughly to remove any dirt residue. Bring water to a boil with a little salt and blanch the stems for not more than 2 minutes. Shock the stems with cold water to retain the green color. Drain and set aside. Meanwhile, soak the dried mushrooms in hot water for 20-30 minutes. Discard the liquid. Cook mushrooms in just enough water for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Strain the liquid and save for later use. In a skillet, bring 1 cup of water, 1 cup mushroom liquid, and soy sauce to a boil. Add the mushrooms and mustard greens and let simmer for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Thicken sauce with cornstarch mixture at the desired consistency. Sprinkle with lemon thyme during the last 2 minutes of cooking. Serve hot. Chefs Tip: The dried mushrooms can be soaked overnight in its own liquid (the one used to boil it) to give superb richness and extra depth to the dish. Editors Note: Master Chef Evelyn: 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S., 2009, Filipina Womens Network; MHC Most Outstanding Migrant Award in Culinary Arts, 2011; PAFC Dakila Special Achievement Award, 2011; Owner/Chef, Philippine Oriental Market & Deli, Arlington, Virginia; Founder and President of CHEW (Cancer Help Eat Well) Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) public charity formed to help and cook pro-bono for Filipino-Americans who are afflicted with cancer and other serious illnesses; Culinary writer; Member, Les Dames dEscoffier International, Washington DC Chapter; Member, International Cake Exploration Society, Member: Culinary Historians of Washington, D.C.; Master Chef, French Cuisine and Patisserie, Le Cordon Bleu, London.

FORGETFUL WIFE
While on a road trip, an elderly couple stopped at a roadside restaurant for lunch. After nishing their meal, they left the restaurant and resumed their trip. The woman unknowingly left her glasses on the table and she didnt miss them until they had been driving for about twenty minutes. By then, to add to the aggravation, they had to travel quite a distance before they could nd a place to turn around and go back to the restaurant to retrieve her glasses. All the way back, the elderly husband became the classic grouchy old man. He fussed and complained and scolded his wife relentlessly during the entire return drive. The more he chided her, the more agitated he became. He just wouldnt let up for one minute. To her relief, they nally arrived at the restaurant. As the woman got out of the car and hurried inside to retrieve her glasses, the old geezer yelled to her, While youre in there, you might as well get my hat and the credit card. see Hillbilly were walking in the woods. All of a sudden one of the Indians ran up a hill to the mouth of a small cave. Wooooo! Wooooo! Wooooo! he called into the cave and then he listened very closely until he heard an answer, Wooooo! Wooooo! Wooooo! He tore off his clothes and ran into the cave. The Hillbilly was puzzled and asked the other Indian what that was all about. Was the other Indian crazy or what? No, said the Indian. It is our custom during mating season when Indian men see cave, they call Wooooo Wooooo! Wooooo! into the opening. If they get an answer back, it means there is a girl in there waiting to mate. Just then they saw another cave. the Indian ran up to the opening of the cave, stopped, and hollered, Woooo! Wooooo! Wooooo! Immediately, there was an answer, Wooooo! Wooooo! Wooooo! from deep inside the cave. He tore off his clothes and ran into the cave. The Hillbilly wandered around in the woods alone for a while, and then he came upon a great big cave. As he looked in, he was amazed at the size of the huge opening... he was thinking, Oh, man! Look at the size of this cave! It is bigger than those the Indians found. There must be some really big, ne women in this cave! He stood in front of the opening and hollered with all his might Wooooo! Wooooo! Wooooo! He grinned and closed his eyes in anticipation, and then he heard the answering call, Woooo! Wooooo! Wooooo! With a gleam in his eyes and a smile on his face, he raced into the cave, tearing off his clothes as he ran. The following day, the headline of the local newspaper read..... Naked Hillbilly Run Over by Train.

Kiko: Napagkakamalan kasi akong bading. Greg: Ganun ba? Sige... saan mo gusto? Kiko: Sa kilay para mukhang suplada.

Kiko: Magkano ang bili mo? Isko: Oo, kanina lang.

SIYOTA
Tonio: Pare, sa wakas nagkagirlfriend na rin ako! Juan: Ha, sa tanda mong yan ngayon ka lang nagka-girlfriend? Tonio: Kasi ang higpit ng misis ko. Ngayon lang ako nakalusot!

MAGDILIG
Sir: Inday bat di mo pa dinidiligan yung mga halaman natin sa labas? Inday: Sir, umuulan po, eh. Sir: Sus, eh di magkapote ka.

MATATALINO
Tatay: Kumusta naman ang mga exams niyo sa eskuwela, mga anak? Andoy: Mabuti po, Itay. Nakakuha kami ni Dina ng 100%. Tatay: Magaling! Nagmana kayo sa talino ko. Dina: 60% po yung sa akin at 40% yung kay kuya.

LUTO
Misis: Inday, dadalaw mamaya ang mga kamag-anak ko mula sa probinsiya kaya magluto ka ng marami. Inday: Opo Mam! Anong luto po ang gusto niyo, yung magtatagal sila dito, o yung uuwi agad sila sa probinsiya?

SURVEY
Mister: Ayon dito sa survey marami sa mga magaganda at matatalinong babae ang nakakapag-asawa ng mga tamad na lalaki. Bakit kaya? Misis: Matagal ko na nga ring tinatanong yan sa sarili ko, eh!

PAYO
Mga misis, kung ayaw niyong magsinungaling ang mga mister niyo, huwag na lang kayong magtatanong.

TATTOO
Kiko: Pare, lagyan mo nga ako ng tattoo! Greg: Bakit naman?

HEARING AID
Isko: Ang galing ang nabili kong hearing aid. Hi-tech at ang lakas ng dating!

MATING CALL
Two Indians and a Tennes-

April 15, 2013

27

OFWs must earn respect

I
The Lopez Sweatshop
Sweatshop is a pejorative term for any work environment considered to be excessively demanding or dangerous where employees work long hours for very low pay and are subjected to abuse. So why did our children coin this term for their fathers medical practice? The Emigdio A. Lopez, M.D., PC ofce in Springeld, VA is anything but wicked. Employees and friends view it as professional, efcient, and pleasant, and bring several generations of their family to be treated there. That is the highest compliment. It started when our daughters became teenagers and needed part time work in the summer. We didnt like giving them money without earning it and I was weary of juggling home and ofce responsibilities. So Mitch and I offered them part time employment as ofce staff responsible for data entry, posting payments, billing, and bookkeeping. They were content. But that contentment lasted a very short time. They found positions elsewhere with better pay albeit with less friendly hours. I had gotten used to their help and was not happy to lose them. Soon an array of their classmates, friends, friends of friends, and relatives came to work part time to replace them. Not all at the same time of course. The back ofce became a lively place. Our daughters found the arrangement amusing and started referring to it as the Lopez Sweatshop. The diversity of men and women who passed through that revolving door is worthy of its own reality show but without the drama and inanities. Some were in between jobs, some needed extra income, and I had a feeling some were just plain bored staying at home. Most had to be re-introduced to accounting 101. It made my life interesting and frustrating at times but that was better than having to show up at the ofce every day. I relished the free time and began exploring other interests. One lovely lady was more creative than practical. She was buoyant, had a ready smile, and with nary a disparaging word of anyone. She reminded me of the perfect nun in The Sound of Music. She improved the back room with owers and was more interested in keeping it neat and tidy. She left me beautifully written notes with artistically doodled owers beside her signature. Another one connected the ofce to Medicare. I was nally introduced to high tech by entering claims into a receiver bank then faxing the lot to Medicare. Until then I carried a mansized tote bag with the red-inked CMS 1500 claim forms. Every free time was dedicated to lling claims and ling by hand. Even drives through the countryside on weekends lost their romance. There was a newly married couple who had just returned from their honeymoon. They worked while holding hands. It tickled me to see them work in tandem but it worried me. How could they remain efcient while giving loving pecks in between entries? I checked and rechecked their postings. They had the fewest mistakes among the sweatshop-pers. Surprise, surprise! And shame on me for doubting since they graduated at the top of their class. Even friends may have a secret past. One day I received a call from an investigator. He was tight lipped as to his reason for the background check regarding a then current employee. I knew I should not answer his probing questions until after I had checked his credentials which he provided. I didnt nd out about my young friends police record until years later. A sad end to a lovely friendship. The list of possible part-timers was eventually exhausted. The time came when we had to look for a permanent replacement. It was a revelation to learn the dos and donts of interviewing, disqualifying, and accepting employees. The mine elds were as varied and perplexing as those that tripped me as I dealt with insurance companies. And until I found him or her, I had to assume my Girl Friday mantle once more. It was fatiguing. We found our posting clerk. She and our ofce manager are the Lopez ofce mainstays. They work seamlessly together and truly like working for Mitch. Their dedication and genuine regard gain them our deep respect and appreciation. I am conicted to report the back-room Lopez Sweatshop is no more.

DALY CITY f we want respect, we must demonstrate that we have political power!. This was the consensus at a recent meeting of members of US Pinoys for Good Governance, the group that grew out of US Pinoys for Noynoy-Mar, which raised money and actively campaigned and voted in the last presidential elections. The group agreed to draw up a short list of senatorial candidates and actively campaign for them, contribute to their war chest, and persuade friends and relatives in the Philippines, particularly those who depend on their nancial support, to vote for them. Only by showing that we have a potent overseas voting bloc will we be given the respect we deserve, the agitated FilAms declared. Why the USPGG members, all immigrants or dual citizens and all qualied to vote in the forthcoming senatorial elections, became so hot under the collar was because of the blunt answer to a question raised at the meeting: How important are we overseas Filipinos to the leaders of our country? Answer: As important as the money we send home. And not much more. That appears to be the harsh truth. In late February, overseas Pinoys from the United States, Europe, Australia, the Middle East, countries in Asia and even South America answered the call of the Motherland, through the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, and attended the 2nd Global Summit of Filipinos in the Diaspora. The objective of the conference was to harness the skills and resources of the wandering Pinoys for national devel-

opment. At the same conference, delegates formally established the Global Filipino Diaspora Council, an idea proposed at the 1st Global Summit in late 2011 and developed further at a CFOinitiated gathering in Rome last year. The Council, led by Loida Nicolas-Lewis and Rodel Rodis, as chairman and president, respectively, would generate the desired synergy to effectively and speedily achieve the CFOs laudable goal. Unfortunately, the enthusiasm of the delegates to the 2nd Global Summit was dampened by three things. Firstly, President Aquino was too busy to personally speak at the conference. He sent a videotaped message instead. Secondly, according to Palace insiders, Aquino was also too busy to oblige a request of delegates to witness him sign the amended overseas voting bill that does away with the requirement for foreign-based voters to execute an afdavit stating that they would return to the Philippines within three years, under pain of imprisonment (as it turned out, the bill had not even been passed by Congress - a fact that the Palace insiders should have known in the rst place). Thirdly - and this was the unkindest cut of all - the Commission on Elections ruled that 238,000 overseas Filipinos were no longer qualied voters, ostensibly for failing to cast their ballots in the last two elections. It took a meeting with the Comelec, arranged by leaders of the Global Filipino Diaspora

Council, to persuade the poll body to reinstate the disenfranchised voters. But theres no reason to celebrate yet, because some consular ofces are still waiting for clear and specic instructions from the Comelec, and those have yet to be given. Its the classic chicken or egg impasse. These grievances were aired at the USPGG meeting in Daly City. Being pragmatic, I suggested to the members that they should not get mad. They should just get even. Lets face it, I said. Were only important to the government because of the 20-plus billion dollars that we remit every year. That money keeps the Philippine economy aoat. But if the politicians and the Comelec can have their way, they would prefer that we do not vote in this election or any other election in the future. It is the specter of an overseas voting bloc that the politicians are wary off. They dont want voters who are not under their control. Theoretically, overseas Pinoys cannot be bought off or intimidated and were supposed to be more enlightened, having been exposed to the political process in more advanced countries. But the theory is as real - or unreal - as the vaunted Catholic vote. There could be a Catholic vote if Catholics were as regimented as the members of some religious sects. Similarly, there could be an overseas voting bloc if Filipinos abroad could rally to a common cause. Pythagoras, Socrates, Plato, Leonardo da Vinci, Buddha, Plutarch, John Milton, Sir Isaac Newton, Mahatma Gandhi, The Dalai Lama, Benjamin Franklin, Shakespeare, Vincent Van Gogh, Leo Tolstoy, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Voltaire, Albert Schweitzer, George Bernard Shaw, Albert Einstein, Winston Churchill, Jean Jacques Rousseau, Rabindranath Tagore, Mark Twain, Robert Browning, Linda and Paul McCartney, John Denver, Richard Gere, Kim Bassinger, Steven Spielberg, Cameron Diaz, Josh Hartnett,etc.

Veggies prolong life... from page 25

hundreds of phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables are: lycophene, ellagic acid, lutein, avanoids, saponins,monoterpenes, phthalides, phenols, ajoene, cassaicin, coumestrol, genistein, sulforaphane, zeanthin. Our mothers were right in cajoling us to eat vegetables and fruits while we were growing up. Too bad, most of us didnt listen. But since we are now wiser and know better, lets educate our own children and persuade them to eat more vegetables and fruits and less animal meat for better health. The incidence of cancers, heart and kidney diseases, diabetes, hypertension, and obesity among vegetarians is much lower than among meat-eaters.

Imported from England

The Rev. William Metcalfe of England, together with his friend, Sylvester Graham, a young Presbyterian minister and 40 other English church members, brought the vegetarian way of life to the United States in 1817. For thousands of years, being a vegetarian was a part of socio-cultural-religious practice around the globe, most notably in the Far East. Many people around the world today choose to be vegetarians for health reasons.

Was Jesus a vegetarian?

Knowledge as recorded in the Bible about how the Essenes, the Nazoreans and Ebionites lived suggests that Christ was probably a vegetarian.

Vegetarian Whos Who

If you are a vegetarian, youre in good company. Some of the famous vegetarians include

28 Editorial

April 15, 2013

A sleeping Comelec
Many Filipino overseas absentee voters (OAV) in the United States and Canada may not be aware that voting has already started around the world for the mid-term Philippine elections. More than 900,000 overseas voters are eligible to cast their votes or mail in their ballots to the Philippine embassies and consulates in their respective countries. The polls for OAVs ofcially opened April 13 and will close on May 13, 2013. The OAVs will be joined by the more than 20 million voters in the Philippines who will vote on May 13. One of the reasons for the lack of information about the elections abroad is the failure of the Commission on Elections in Manila to promote it. It has relied only on the Manila TV channels to spread the word. Instead of sending press releases to Philippine embassies abroad and the thousands of Filipino American newspapers in the US and Canada, for instance, several Comelec commissioners spent money for junkets to Hong Kong, Singapore and the Middle East early this month ostensibly to drum up support. There was no reminder about the date of the voting, the procedure to be followed by voters or embassies and consulates that have been designated as ofcial voting places. Not many know the voting is limited only to senatorial candidates and party-list bets. Unlike overseas voters in Hong Kong, the Middle East and Singapore, many in the United States, Canada and Europe do not even know who are running for senators, how many positions are open and the platforms of the major parties involved. Many do not know that of the 33 major candidates for the 12 seats, are from Luzon. Of these, 19 are from Metro Manila, the country s capital region. Only one senatorial aspirant -- independent candidate Ramon Montao -- originated from and is considered a resident of the Visayas. He was born in Cebu, the most vote-rich area outside Luzon, and is a registered voter in Negros Oriental. Its time for the Comelec to wake up. It must fulll its duties to keep the OAVs informed! .

The Diplomat as Tsismoso

There are reports that there is a higher entity (not ghost, pare) ruling the Philippine embassy whenever the ambassador is on home leave. When my Tsismoso reporter prods these moles to elaborate, they simply clam up! *** A Tsismoso who obviously visits the embassy website often and have some knowledge about foreign affairs, has some comments about the press statement issued by the embassy about the meeting between US Secretary of State John Kerry and Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Albert del Rosario at the State Department April 2. This Tsismoso, who obviously knows something about diplomatic niceties and protocols is wondering why the press release was issued by the Department of Foreign Affairs in Manila and not the Philippine embassy in Washington D.C. Didnt DFA trust Del Rosario in issuing the statement himself? Or was he being censored? Were ofcials in Manila afraid the secretary might declare war on China? he asked. *** Well, after ignoring the repeated requests of Filipino American activists supporting the Filipino Overseas Workers in Louisiana for a meeting with Philippine Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. the embassy nally relented last month. That was because some protesters were demonstrating in front of the embassy and calling for the ring of the ambassador. But instead of meeting with the top honcho, the activists calling itself the Justice for Grand Isle Shipyard met with an embassy ofcial. But he was not a toplevel ofcial. Hes First Secretary and Consul Elmer Cato, previously the press ofcer and part-time photographer in the embassy. After the meeting, the embassy issued a statement saying The embassy is satised with the discussion. And the online magazine, The Filam, said they agreed to disagree. As expected, the activists went away still grumbling and asking for the ring of the ambassador for not helping the workers. *** According to some Tsismoso reporters, there is a favorite ditty being recited by some disgruntled staff of the Phllippine embassy every time the ambassador goes to the Philippines for home consultations. When the Cat is Away, the Mouse is at Play1 Many are trying to gure out what this means. One Tsismoso says that when the ambassador leaves, the embassy is run by a surrogate who is stricter than the ambassador. *** Some Tsismosos in the Washington D.C. area have been acting like Polar bears lately. Some Tsismoso sources appear to have gone in hibernation, probably because of the long Winter. But a few are still active. Take for instance this unconrmed report that a former community leader owns condos in the National Harbor, the new development along the Potomac. That a rich Middle Eastern man is funding the business of a Pinoy. In McLean, Virginia. *** Hurrah! Three Cheers. Tsismoso has found a compadre, a counterpart in the Philippines. My newlyl-discovered fellow Tsismoso in the Philippines is a man in a Cossack. He is none other than Archbishop emeritus Oscar Cruz, former president of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines. This Tsismoso bishop was reported to have swore on a stack of Bibles that Kristina Bernadette (alias) Kris Aquino, President Aquinos 3rd youngest sister, has set her eyes for the second highest position in the land in 2016! Msgr. Cruz said his information was conrmed by credible sources from within the present administration. And the Manila media went wild over the bishops report. He said this information was conrmed by credible sources from within the present administration. Formerly, it was only in whispers. Now, it has become more commonly said and heard that the youngest sister of the President of the Republic will also run as vice president [VP] of the Republic come 2016, Cruz said. Im not saying that she will do it in 2016. Im just saying that, up to now, this is what is being said, the retired prelate said. When asked if the movie and television actress has a strong chance of succeeding Vice President Jejomar Binay, Cruz answered in the afrmative.

April 15, 2013

Opinion 29

Single First Lady

I
The Ties that Bind

arlos Bulosan was 17 years old when he left his hometown of Binalonan, Pangasinan. Along with thousands of other young Filipinos, he arrived in California where they labored as farm workers for big plantation owners and houseboys for rich, white American families. They worked hard despite low wages and inhumane working conditions. The America in the 1930s through the 1940s was a hostile world for brown-skinned men like Bulosan. Recruited as vital help to meet the countrys economic needs, they were nonetheless treated like dogs and hunted down like criminals. They suffered beatings, threats and illhealth.

p29image001.tif In his autobiography, America is in the Heart, Bulosan wrote: I came to know afterward that in many ways it was a crime to be a Filipino in California . I came to know that the public streets were not free to my people. They also suffered a more insidious form of oppression. About 80 percent of Filipino men in California were under 30 years of age and unmarried. The ratio of Filipino males to females was fourteen to one. Filipino young women were not allowed to leave home at the time. Under the circumstances, brown men dated white women. But miscegenation laws prevented Filipinos from marrying whites. Inevitably, starting a family in the US was nearly unfeasible. As historians point out, many had waited years, and even decades, to marry a woman and start a family. Because of this,

Filipino men were having children as old as 81 years old. Some went back to the Philippines to rekindle ames from former loves. Forced by the exigencies of racism, and because U.S. employers did not usually pay for the passage of family members, these migrant workers suffered loneliness and isolation. Deprived of marriage and family life, these manongs lived out their days in the grim shadows of their aging years as hurt men. In the words of writer Ben Santos: old timers and socially excluded, childless Filipino bachelors. Still, while America failed to live up to his most cherished dream of American citizenship, Bulosans faith and love for America never faltered. Despite the rejection and bitterness, the suffering and abuses, he remained hopeful in his vision of America as an unnished ideal in which everyone must invest time and energy and contribute something toward the nal fulllment of America . A Cherished Dream. My own familys journey to this land of promise in the 1960s was not as heroic or dramatic as Bulosans. Like him, my father plowed his farm with a carabao and struggled to improve his familys chances of a better life. American citizenship was also a cherished dream. He and my mother came as students and later got their green cards. My two younger sisters and younger brother, carrying student visas, soon followed. But when it was my turn to come, I made the mistake of telling the US Consul in Manila that I planned to join my siblings, as it was my parents dream to bring us all together as one family. Wrong answer. Visa denied. I dreaded the prospect of being separated. A friend later told me that I should have answered, Im dying to see snow, to the consuls question of why I wanted to go to America . Snow, not siblings, dont raise red ags. Fortunately, the US Embassy reversed its decision after an American missionary intervened. There is a God, after all, I exulted. In the meantime, my brother received a deportation order because he was caught working after graduating from college in

n a recent interview with a TV station in Burlington, Vermont, First Lady Michelle Obama referred to herself as a busy single mother who faces the same problems many mothers do trying to balance family time with work. She corrected herself as soon as she realized she had her foot in her mouth. Opps! Those who doubt that Pres. Barack Obama was born in Hawaii will now have another issue. They will demand to see the marriage certicate of Barack and Michelle. Some celebrities tend to enjoy highlighting their misfortune or challenges in life. Ophra reveals that she was abused as a child. Olympic gymnast Gabby Douglas claims she was discriminated in her childhood. My smart aleck barber however insists that truth comes out in unguarded moments. I said, I can believe that she is busy but of course she is not single. Its the other way around, my barber insists. You mean, she is not busy but single? Listen carefully, he says. First, she has more than one sec-

retary to do her ofce chores, a few butlers to do personal errands, Secret Service agents to keep away the ies from disturbing her peace and quiet, and the entire staff of the White House kitchen to see to it that scrambled eggs are ready for breakfast every morning. What else is there to do other than copy the body language of her idol, Beyonce? OK, I get it. But nobody ever questioned the marriage of the rst couple. Personal admissions are telling. You can be married and be single. You are confusing me now. By the way, be careful with those scissors. Consider this, my barber gestures with those pair of scissors to catch my serious attention. The President wakes up early and goes to the White House gym then takes a quick shower before dropping by the

breakfast table, then security briengs, then sword splay with Speaker John Boehner, then consulting Defense psychics to predict what the young North Korean leader will do next, then 18 rounds of golf. But then Michelle owns the evening, I said. Thats when the real action begins. Not anymore, my barber smiled. In the evening, Hollywood descends on the White House and Barack spends the entire evening pressing celebrity esh. What happens after the celebrities leave? Barack sits by a telephone and watches Michelle fall asleep while he makes follow-up calls for contributions from the top 1% that he so despises. Is Michelle really complaining? You can see a Pope resign

Continued on page 31

The threat within

Continued on page 31

y wife is terried by the prospect of North Korea launching a nuclear-tipped missile on the United States or the Philippines. I tried to explain why that was unlikely but the steady drone of ominous news reports on TV seemed to drown everything out. Now that the yearly USSouth Korean joint military exercises are winding down, expect the rhetoric to follow suit. The North, despite its bluster and the unpredictability of its leaders, know it cant win. The hermit nation is obviously trapped in the 20th century, its vaunted military (said to be 4th largest in the world) relying on Soviet-style doctrines and weapons that have been proven ineffective in the Sinai Peninsula, Iraq, Libya, etc. And Soviet-era military calculus is anchored on one overriding concern survival. The US has time and again demonstrated its capability to take unwanted regimes down. Its costly but if you give America a compelling reason to do it, she probably will. Last month, I received a press release from the Missile Defense Agency announcing the success of tests to intercept ballistic missiles over the Pacic Ocean. The cruiser USS Lake

Erie, guided by satellites, used a standard Aegis ship-to-air missile to knock out a dummy missile launched from Hawaii. The statement said it was the 24th successful intercept in 30 tests (an 80 percent ratio which is better than most operational anti-missile defense systems). The US and Philippines kicked off their own bilateral training exercises last week. The US dispatched a ight of F-18 Hornets although the ofcial statement said this years Balikatan war games is more geared towards responding to natural disasters. Curiously, the Philippines lost the last of its ghter jets to obsolescence a few years back and this is the rst time since the country has any kind of supersonic interceptors, even if they happen to be American. Feeding the North Korean threat storyline further, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario said the US can use Philippine ports and airelds if hos-

tilities do break out in the Korean Peninsula. Ultimately, North Koreas antics pose a greater danger not against the US, but against China. It could drive South Korea to acquire a nuclear weapon; the only reason Japan hasnt fully rearmed is because of the US security guarantee. Vietnam, which is contesting Chinese claims on islands in the South China Sea, could travel through the same path. India and Pakistan already have a nuclear arsenal. If China doesnt rein its clients in North Korea, it could wake up to its worst nightmare a border shared with nuclear-armed neighbors. Much has been said about the penchant of the press to scare its audiences it drives TV ratings up and sells newspapers. This will surely fuel that perception even as the White House said it was trying to dial down on the rhetoric, perhaps giving

Continued on page 31

30
Immigration Notes
By J.G. Azarcon, Esq.

April 15, 2013

VISA PRIORITY DATES FOR THE PHILIPPINES APRIL 2013 FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCES First: Unmarried sons/daughters of US citizens Feb. 15, 1999 Second: A: Spouses/minor children of permanent residents: Dec. 15, 2010 B: Unmarried sons/daughters 21 years of age or older of permanent residents Jul. 15, 2002 Third: Married sons/daughters of citizens Oct. 01, 1992 Fourth: Brothers/sisters of citizens Aug. 15, 1989 EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES First: Priority workers Current Second: Professionals holding advanced degrees or persons of exceptional ability Current Third: Skilled workers, professionals Sep. 08, 2006 Other Workers Sep. 08, 2006 Fourth: Current Certain Religious Workers Current Fifth: Employment creation/ (Million or half-million dollar investor) Current
to marry includes, among others, photographs of the parties being together, letters, e-mail, telephone bills and afdavits of relatives who have personal knowledge of the relationship. If the alien beneciary has minor children, the children can come with the principal beneciary under a K-2 visa, either accompanying or following to join within one year of the issuance of the K-1 visa. If the alien or the petitioner fail to marry within 90 days of the aliens arrival, the alien then becomes subject to removal. A K-1 visa holder will not qualify for an extension of stay or change to another immigration status, i.e. B-2, H-B1 or employment based immigrant petition. If the alien marries another U.S. citizen instead of the petitioner, the alien cannot apply for adjustment of status while remaining

Love visa

T
Senators-in-Waiting

MANILA y the time youre reading this, the Philippines will be edging closer to judgment day for politicians vying for positions all over the land. May 13 is election day for senators (who are voted nationwide) and local ofcials from town mayor to governors to members of Congress. These elections are pivotal in how the nation will be governed in the next three years and beyond. Its because the politicians the people will vote into ofce will either be supportive of President Benigno Aquino III or not. Aquino has said the election winners will be key to his reform program, and he has been travelling around the country to persuade people to vote for his chosen candidates. This is especially true for the candidates for the Senate. Besides the President, senators are the only other ofcials who are elected by a nationwide vote (unlike in the United States where senators, like congressmen, are voted by state). For this reason, senators are held in higher regard among all government ofcials, except for the President of course. For this reason too, the senate is seen as a breeding ground for future presidents. Having to court all the voters around the country is of course a grueling task. Senatorial candidates have to cover practically all the major cities and towns around the archipelago. That takes a lot of time and effort. And money, lots of money. Senatorial candidates have to spend millions of pesos and mount nightmarish logistics in order to cover the whole nation. But the rewards are handsome. Being a senator brings prestige and clout. Senators are next only to the President in terms of political power. And any one of them, in theory at least, is a potential president. And it also pays in money terms. Senators get P200 million each in pork barrel funds (congressmen get P70 million each) that they can allot for projects anywhere they like around the country. The pork barrel system here works essentially the same way as the one in the United States in terms of the senators being able to pinpoint what proj-

ects to nance. But here pork barrel money also nds its way into the senators pockets in the form of kickbacks. Pork barrel funds are allotted to specic projects favored by a senator and the projects contractors (favored ones as well) kick back part of the money to the sponsoring senator (or congressman). Thus, senators become rich just for that. In the Philippines, there are no senators who live in shanties, even if thats were they used to reside before they became senator. Thats a fact of life here. No wonder senatorial candidates (and all the other candidates for ofce here) shell out lots of money just to get elected. Campaigning requires a lot of money. The sheer logistics alone of campaigning need massive funding. And when you have to cover a lot of ground, the nancial requirements of campaigning get multiplied. Thats why the winning candidates need to recoup their investment later on through kickbacks and other forms of stealing. As you read this, the candidates for the May 13 polls are right in the middle of the campaign. Having started the campaign in the middle of last February, the senatorial candidates are by now exhausted, both physically and nancially (candidates for lower ofce started their campaign last March 29 only). Those who have money on their own, those who have fat cats as backers and large political parties to support them obviously have a built-in edge. The less endowed make do with physical exertion by trying mightily to cover as much ground as they humanly can. They will slog through to the nish line on May 12, if indeed they have the stamina to get there. As of this writing, the senatorial bets who are doing well in the surveys are reelectionists Loren Legarda, Chiz Escudero, Alan Peter Cayetano, Koko Pimentel, Antonio Trillanes and Gregorio Honasan. Grace Poe, Cynthia Villar, Nancy Binay, JV Ejercito, Jack Enrile, and former senators Dick Gordon, Ramon Magsaysay and Jamby Madrigal are also within the ambit of winning.

rue love may pave the way for a ticket to the United States. An alien who is the ance(e) of a U.S. citizen petitioner may be issued a K-1 visa which will allow entry to the U.S. for the purpose of marrying the U.S. citizen petitioner. To qualify for a K-1 visa, the petitioner and the alien must satisfy the following requirements: (i) the parties have personally met within two years preceding the date of ling of the petition; (ii) they must have a bona de intention to marry; and (iii) they are legally qualied and actually willing to conclude a valid marriage in the U.S. within ninety days after the ance(e)s arrival. The requirement for a personal meeting within two years preceding the ling of the petition may be waived by the Immigration Service if the parties can establish that the meeting would result in extreme hardship to the petitioner or would violate the traditional customs of the beneciarys foreign culture or social practice, as in marriages arranged by parents. Health reasons, travel restrictions or nancial burdens are circumstances that may merit a waiver based on extreme hardship. The documentation necessary to prove contact and intent

Continued on page 31

Caribbean Piggy Banks

Continued on page 31

MANILA ollow the smell of money. Investigative reporter Amitabha Chowdhury worked by that rule in his Ananda Bazar Patrika exposes of murky contracts in India . Chowdhury won the 1961 Magsaysay Award for Journalism. Anna Politkovskaya used accountability reporting in Novaya Gazeta exposes of Vladimir Putins regime and abuse of Chechen people. A gunman, in 2006, cut her down in a Mocow lift. She was 48. Bob Woodward and Carl Bernsteins reporting on the Watergate break-in won the 1973 Pulitizer Prize for Public Service Their reports led to US President Richard Nixons one sentence letter of resignation.. Watchdog journalism can uproot malfeasance at national levels. What if journalists follow the smell of money across borders? The International Consortium of Investigative Journalists did just that. This April, ICIJ completed a 15-month probe

of global tax havens. Former Sydney Morning Posts Gerard Ryle, marshaled 86 journalists in 46 countries, including the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism. They picked apart a hard drive, delivered mysteriously, Agence France Presse reports.. Crammed into it were accounts of 120,000 offshore companies and 130,000 individuals. In its rst release Easter week, ICIJ nailed the Azerbaijan presidents family and the French presidents former campaign treasurer. PCIJ pinpointed three Filipinos who hold secret offshore trusts in the Virgin Islands : Ilococ Norte governor Imee Marcos- Manotoc, Rep.Joseph Victor JV Ejercito and Sen. Manuel. Villar Jr. ICIJ found more than 500 Philippine residents who have

links with offshore trustsHalf have public proles, of varying prominence. Others are businessmen in foreign companies. Public ofcials must list all assets in annual Statements of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth. SALNs should include stashes abroad. The Constitution directs : Upon assumption of ofce, ( legislatiors must ) make a full disclosure of their nancial and business interests. Imee is a beneciary of Sintra Trust. Others in the trough are her adult sons with estranged husband Tomas Manotoc: Ferdinand Richard, Matthew Joseph; and Fernando Borgy Martin. Documents up to 2010, show that Imee also had interests in a company in which Sintra Trust was a benecial shareholder: ComCentre Corporation. Formed in January

Continued on page 31

April 15, 2013

31
and is touted by his party and supporters as qualied for the senate. But, to this Observer, President should not have approved Bams candidacy for the reason that theyre cousins, thus taking away the Presidents moral ground for attacking dynastic politics, which has been a bane here for keeping politics so feudal still, with political families controlling elections and how localities are governed and administered. The other candidates mentioned above havent really distinguished themselves in any earth-shaking importance. Except for Miguel Zubiri, in a negative way, who won in 2007 on the strength of vote-rigging manipulations allegedly ordered by then President Arroyo. Zubiris bogus win robbed Koko Pimentel, a son of another senator (Aquilino Nene Pimentel), of four years of his legitimate term in the senate. Koko, naturally, is bitter about Zubiris usurpation of his victory, and has been very vocal about it in the ongoing campaign. What happens if they both win this time? This current crop of wouldbe senators isnt exactly the creme de la creme, but what to do? The present membership of the senate (and worse, also of the House of Representatives) is so undistinguished and undeserving that the potential winners this time arent likely to raise the quality of either chamber of Congress. And yet people continue to vote them into ofce. As the saying goes: People deserve the government they elect. Please tell your relatives here not to waste their votes and vote wisely. The Philippines will continue to be in the doldrums if the quality of our leaders doesnt improve. in America along with his wife and kids, so they can enjoy what I have had these past 10 years. Ive always believed that Americas strength lies less on its unmatched military heft as it is on the superiority of her peoples values, especially those in the armed forces, who hold them true and dear, determined to preserve them. The family is at the core of those values and for Congress to enact something that blocks the family from being whole is the biggest threat of all and thats what scares me. statements do not list them. Realize that when I was 20 years old, I had a house, a Mercedes, a Corvette, plus millions in an offshore Carribean account, before I could buy alcohol legally. It was not Imee who said that. But she proclaimed , at every turn, transparency

Senators-in-Waiting... from page 30

Loren Legarda, the reported front-runner in the senatorial race, is a former television newsreader who has distinguished herself as an environmental advocate. Very ambitious (she has run for vice president twice but lost). Chiz Escudero too has higher political ambitions, having once irted with the heady thought of running for president but relented when his expected campaign money didnt materialize from a conglomerate tycoon. Alan Cayetano is a member of a brother-and-sister act in the senate who likes to ght brinkmanship games like impeaching presidents (then President Gloria Arroyo) and verbal jousts with his nominal boss, the senate president (Juan Ponce Enrile who himself has gured in dramatic political episodes as a henchman of the dictator Ferdinand Marcos in the 1970s and 80s). Grace Poe is the daughter of the late movie icon Fernando Poe Jr. who is respected, like both her father and mother (movie star Susan Roces), in the lm community. From this Observers eyes, a liberal in political persuasion. Cynthia Villar is a former congresswoman and the wife of former Senate President and 2010 presidential candidate Manny Villar. Doing well in the surveys because of early visibility by engaging in charity work and capitalizing on the family name. Nancy Binay is the daughter of Vice President Jojo Binay, and thats her only apparent qualication and surely the only reason why shes doing well in the surveys. Has never held any elective position before and spent many years as either her fathers or mothers (who had both been mayor of Makati, a wealthy suburb of Manila) personal assistant. Jojo Binay won a startling and come-from-behind victory in the 2010 election as vice president, trouncing the front-runner, former senator Mar Roxas. Binay and Roxas appear to be the main protagonists in the presidential election of 2016. A possible third candidate is current senator Bong Revilla, a former and present movie star, but this is a ludicrous prospect if ever there was one. JV Ejercito is a son of former President Joseph Estrada who had served as town mayor (in their bailiwick of San Juan, a suburb of Manila, and as congressman). The luckiest politician in modern Philippine political history is Joseph Erap Estrada. He too (!) was a movie star who later became a petty politician (town mayor of, where else, San Juan) who then was voted into higher ofce (senator, vice president, president) by the starstruck masses. He was convicted of plunder (amassing money illegally), then pardoned by the opportunistic Gloria Arroyo, and in 2010 ran for president and came in a distant second to President Aquino (Manny Villar was an even more distant third). And now Joseph Estrada is running for mayor of Manila against the incumbent Fred Lim, himself a former senator. Estrada, who has no qualication whatsoever for higher ofce (his supporters will dispute this of course) has remained alive in politics despite having no gray matter between his ears and his conviction as a plunderer. He also maintains several wives. Only in the Philippines! Bam Aquino is a cousin of President Aquino and, for those in North America who remember Ninoy Aquino, a Ninoy look-alike. Bam is a youth leader who has won several awards

The Ties that Bind... from page 29

Missouri . He was out of status. My parents sought the help of a US Congressman who later led a bill to keep my brother in the country. Happily for my two sisters, one a nurse and the other a social worker, they got sponsors who helped legalize their status. In 1965, Congress nally passed a landmark immigration bill which made family reunication the bedrock value of the countrys immigration system. The Act abolished national origins quotas that was American immigration policy since the 1920s, replacing it with a preference system that focused on immigrants skills and family relationships with citizens or U.S. residents. But all that is about to change. While a bi-partisan immigration reform measure is laudable in many respects, notably the path to legalization for the 11 million undocumented immigrants, one aspect threatens family reunication. Some senators are talking about blocking citizens from sponsoring their family members living outside the country. Today, according to the Asian American Justice Center (AAJC), 4.3 million people are separated from their loved ones because of the family visa backlog. Filipino families, in particular, face wait times of over 20 years to be reunited with their in your lifetime, but never a First Lady in the White House. It didnt even occur in the mind of former FL Hillary Clinton. Single in the White House? Its not the rst time. families. If these senators have their way, millions of mothers, children, spouses and siblings could be separated indenitely. Immigration reform is not just a Latino issue. It affects all of us. Family visas are just as important as employment visas in hastening assimilation and providing a safety net for family members. Workers, after all, have spouses and children and siblings. Immigration is more than a business relationship America has with selected foreigners, says the New York Times in an editorial. Its a process that renews this country; it means going all-in on America , through binding ties of love and blood. Recruited workers enrich the country. Reunited families do, too. As we engage in this historic debate, let us remember Bulosan who would have been 100 years old in November. America is not a land of one race or one class of men, he wrote. We are all Americans that have toiled and suffered and know oppression and defeat, from the rst Indian that offered peace in Manhattan to the last Filipino pea pickers. America is a prophecy of a new society that knows no sorrow or strife or suffering. Send your comments to jonmele@aol.com income documentation. When the G. W. Bush administration tried to sound the alarm by proposing the creation of a review board to oversee the operations of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, Democratic big guns Sen. Chuck Schuler and Rep. Barney Frank dismissed the Bush administrations concerns. The housing bubble burst and Pres. G. W. Bush got the blame even when the seeds of the crisis were not planted by him. Now, according to a Washington Post report, the Obama administration is pushing banks to lend to people with weaker credit with assurances that the nancial institutions will not face legal action for extending loans to riskier borrowers in the event of default. History repeats itself?

Single First Lady... from page 30

The threat within... from page 29

North Koreas chubby 30-yearold leader Kim Jong Un space to back down without losing face. North Korea has provided the Obama administration a welcome distraction only 88,000 jobs were added in March compared to nearly 270,000 the previous month; meaningful gun legislation from Congress seems more elusive than ever; federal agencies are set to enforce the sequestration; and perhaps more disconcerting, reports from Capitol Hill on the comprehensive immigration reform (CIR) bill. As of this writing, the Asian American community is busy mobilizing for a protest on Capitol Hill against a proposal by North Carolina Sen. Lindsey Graham to exclude the adult children and siblings of US citizens from being petitioned to come to the US. That to me is a more fundamental threat to American values and way of life than any North Korea can hurl our way. Its unsettling because I have a son in the Philippines whom I dream of one day being re-united here

*** Remember the time when liberal activists were picketing Savings and Loans Associations protesting against alleged red lining in order to force the nancial institutions to loosen their credit guidelines to enable low income homebuyers to qualify for home loans? Their efforts paid off with the support of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac and even the Federal Reserve under Chairman Alan Greenspan. The push for easy credit gave birth to subprime loans and many applications approved without veried in conduct of ofcial duties. On Ilocos Nortes foundation day, Imee opens up the capitol to people, literally. We even opened a provincial safe to show tax collections, how they process the money and bring them to the bank, she told Inquirer. Alas, that didnt include Virgin Island slush funds. Ferdinand and Imelda, early in their rule, opened secret Swiss bank accounts .

Love Visa ... from page 30

in the U.S. The only way for a K-1 visa holder to adjust status to permanent resident in the U.S. is by marriage to the petitioner within 90 days of arrival.
(Any questions pertaining to this article may be addressed to 703 893 0760)

Caribbean Piggy Banks... from page 30

2002 in the Virgin Island , it is still in operation.. One Sintra Trust document refers to a United Overseas Bank account Limited Singapore. Another refers to an HSBC account. In June 2005, Imee was named investment adviser of the Sintra Trust, according to a document uncovered by ICIJ. As such, she can direct any nancial institution in the purchase, sale, liquidation, and investment of trust assets. Imees disclosure

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April 15, 2013