The Filipino Express v28 Issue 41
Transcription
The Filipino Express v28 Issue 41
PH is Asia-Pacific's ‘Destination of the Year' Page 7 Arrivals. More fun in the Philippines VOL. 28 w NO. 41 w October 10-16, 2014 w NATIONAL EDITION w NEW JERSEY w NEW YORK w 201-434-1114 w $1.00 Ties that bind point to Binay interests in farm The 350-hectare property allegedly owned by the Binay family. Photo from the Office of Senator Antonio Trillanes IV 'Hacienda Binay': A property in question By TJ Burgonio Aquino in Bali for democracy forum By Niña Calleja Pres. Aquino. AP file photo LOS ANGELES -- Very few Filipinos are showing interest in a new law that would provide a driver's license to all Californians regardless of immigration status, even as advocacy groups and community leaders on October 3 celebrated at the steps of City Hall the one-year anniversary signing of AB 60's signing. The Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights of Los Angeles subcommittee Wednesday that he had proof the estate was owned by the Binay family. In a PowerPoint presentation at the Senate hearing on Makati's allegedly ove r p r i c e d c a r p a rk , S e n . Antonio Trillanes IV unlocked Binay's ties with Tiu and Subido. To show they were talking about the same farm, Trillanes said Sunchamp's logo that showed a lagoon matched with the lagoon in the photos of the farm presented minutes earlier by Mercado. The senator said Tiu set up Greenergy Holdings u Page 4 BALI, Indonesia -- President Aquino arrived here on Thursday night (Oct. 9) for the Bali Democracy Forum Ties that bind which he will co-chair with outgoing Former Makati Vice Mayor Indonesian President Susilo Bambang Ernesto Mercado told the Yudhoyono. Aquino, with members of his Cabinet, arrived at Ngurah Rai International Airport at 8:30 p.m. on Thursday on board the special flight PR-001. u Page 4 Revilla P87M deposits found Few undocumented Filipinos showing interest in California's new driver's licenses By Mico Letargo MANILA -- Vice President Jejomar Binay could be using companies headed by a former supplier to the Makati city government and the law partner of his daughter to front as owners of a 350-hectare farm in Batangas province, senators said on Wednesday, Oct. 8. While Binay claimed to have divested himself of his interests in the farm in Rosario town, he had ties with the president of Sunchamp Agri-Tourism Park, Chinese-Filipino businessman Antonio Tiu, and Sunchamp director Martin Subido, the senators said. The “piggery farm” on a leased property in Batangas was operated by Sunchamp, Binay's spokesperson had said. Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III, chair of the Senate blue ribbon subcommittee investigating alleged irregularities in the Makati city government, said the panel would invite the Vice President anew to respond to the “serious charges.” AMLC: Fund movements jibe with Luy's records By Gil C. Cabacungan MANILA -- Justice is catching up with accused plunderer Sen. Bong Revilla, with a forensic investigation into his and his family's bank transactions from 2006 to 2010 indicating that he received kickbacks from the pork barrel funds he (CHIRLA) called it a “victory,” saying channeled to bogus foundations controlled by that it will benefit California's Janet Lim-Napoles as exposed by whistle-blower economy and make the roads safer. Benhur Luy. With the new law taking effect The Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) January 1, 2015, CHIRLA estimates report on Revilla's bank transactions involving his that approximately more than one Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) million people could potentially apply also showed discrepancies in his official cash for a driver's license. declarations that could indicate “concealment of However, in spite of the high unexplained wealth”; P87.626-million deposits number of projected beneficiaries of made in the personal accounts of Revilla, his wife, the law, it seems that only a few Cavite Rep. Lani Mercado, and his children, and Filipinos are interested in the some of his siblings that tended to confirm his landmark service for the receipt of the kickbacks; and more than P40 undocumented. u Page 6 million in suspicious funds were poured into a u Page 6 Sen. Bong Revilla. Inquirer file photo October 10-16, 2014 Page 2 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Eco groups slam plans to dispose of Canada wastes in Philippine soil By Jaymee T. Gamil MANILA -- Pick up your garbage, Canada. The Philippines is not your garbage bin. T h i s wa s t h e c a l l o f environmental and health groups on Thursday, Oct. 9, as they decried government for allegedly allowing the unlawful disposal of toxic waste from Canada in the Philippines, instead of shipping it back in accordance with international laws. On Thursday, groups led by Greenpeace, Ecowaste Coalition, Ban Toxics and the Ang Nars partylist held a press conference at the Quezon City Memorial Circle (QCMC), exposing what they called as government plans to simply dump in a Tarlac landfill the shipment of garbage intercepted by the Bureau of Customs earlier in 2014. Late in 2013, 50 forty-foot container vans from Ontariobased Chronic Inc. started arriving at the Manila International Container Port for consignee Chronic Plastics based in Valenzuela city. The contents of the container vans were declared as “scrap plastic materials for recycling.” In January, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) confiscated the container vans after discovering that they actually contained possibly hazardous wastes such as used plastic bags, used bottles, newspaper, household garbage, and even adult diapers. In February, the BoC filed a complaint in the Department of Justice against Chronic Plastics, saying the shipment violated the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste and Control Act of 1990, and the Basel Convention On The Control Of Transboundary Movements Of Hazardous Waste And Their Disposal, to which both the Philippines and Canada are signatories. Under the Basel convention, the “exporting country must take back the waste materials if the receiving country refuses to accept them.” Environmental groups have since urged that the container vans simply be shipped back to Canada as per the international treaty. But 459 days after the first shipment of wastes to the Philippines, a bulk of the container vans and their waste Entire Mindanao under mercy of Bangsamoro - Lobregat contents remain in the vicinity of the Bureau of Customs in By Marc Jayson Cayabyab Manila, according to Abigail Aguilar, toxics campaigner of MANILA -- A lawmaker raised the Greenpeace Southeast Asia. alarm of subjecting Mindanao's water Last Aug. 30, to decongest and power resources under the mercy the Manila ports, 16 of the vans of the Bangsamoro government upon were shipped to the Subic the creation of a Bangsamoro entity. International Container During the ad hoc committee Terminal Services, which hearing in the House of Representatives immediately requested that the on Wednesday, Zamboanga city Manila port take them back as Representative Celso Lobregat said the there were already “big holes in Bangsamoro basic bill gives so much the vans leaking and emitting a power to the Moro government to foul odor,” Aguilar said. regulate power and water resources. On Thursday, the advocate “The proposed law talks about groups said that in a meeting in certain exclusive powers of the Rep. Celso Lobregat of Zamboanga City. August, held by the BoC, the Bangsamoro government such as over Photo from congress.gov.ph environment department, and power generation, transmission, and the foreign affairs department, distribution. That's why I think many of the Pulangi plant is located in one of the recommended the congressmen inside and outside the Bukidnon. actions on the toxic wastes was Bangsamoro are now taking a closer “I could not help, historically to “permanently dispose of look at the bill because it will not only Mindanao enjoys low power rates and them in Philippine soil,” in affect the people and residents of the we will depend on inter-governmental particular, in a sanitary landfill Bangsamoro, but also people outside of relations. Who will decide? The entire in Tarlac province, Aguilar said. the Bangsamoro, the entire Mindanao,” Mindanao will be at the mercy of Aguilar said this was Lobregat told fellow representatives Bangsamoro,” Lobregat added. discovered by the groups in and members of the government peace According to the bill, the September, when Ang Nars panel. Bangsamoro government can regulate Rep. Leah Paquiz received He cited the Agus and Pulangi power generation, transmission, and word from the Environmental hydropower plants, supplying 982 distribution operating exclusively in the Management Bureau about the megawatts or 50 percent of Mindanao's Bangsamoro as long as it is not agreements in the interagency power requirement, which may be connected to the national transmission government meeting. subjected to the Bangsamoro's control. grid. “I will not tolerate this Agus hydropower plant snakes “It shall promote investments, matter sitting down. As a from Lanao lake in Marawi city to Maria domestic and international, in the u Page 5 Cristina falls in Iligan city. Meanwhile, u Page 5 Our Lady of Guadalupe - Message of Trust and Hope ‘..... I am the ever Virgin Holy Mary, Mother of the true Godfor whom we live, of the Creator of all things, Lord of Heaven and the earth. I wish that a temple be erected here quickly, so I may therein exhibit and give all my love, compassion, help and protection, because I am your merciful mother, to you and to all ......’ Pilgrimage Mexico City Cuernavaca Taxco Tlaxcala Ocotlan Puebla (Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe) December 8-13, 2014 US$1,499.00 RTA TRAVEL NEW YORK: 39-85 65th Place, Woodside, New York 11377 Phone: 718-507-2500 Fax 718-478-8683 Email: atgajilan@aol.com NEW JERSEY: 2713 Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, 07306 Phone: 201-434-8282 Fax 201-434-0880 Email: litogajilan@yahoo.com October 10-16, 2014 Page 3 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Maritime affairs expert separates facts from fiction on Scarborough Shoal MANILA -- Despite China's assertions that it has “indisputable sovereignty” over the entire South China Sea, a maritime affairs expert maintained that historical facts tell otherwise. Jay Batongbacal, Director of the University of the Philippines Institute for Maritime Affairs & Law of the Sea, laid out the history of Scarborough shoal, one of the many disputed maritime features in the South China Sea, from the era of ancient Chinese dynasties to the modern times to find out who really has sovereignty over it. “China argues that it is entitled to Bajo de Masinloc on the ground that it first discovered the island, gave its name and incorporated it into its territory, and had always exercised jurisdiction over it,” Batongbacal said during a lecture in De La Salle University. “A serious examination of these grounds, however, bears out severe internal inconsistencies. Examination of the evidence shows the basis to be largely published fiction,” he said. B e l o w a re s o m e o f t h e important points he raised. A full copy of the lecture can be read here. 1) [FACT] The Philippines, under the Spanish colonial administration, was already exercising sovereignty over Scarborough shoal by end of the 18th century. Scarborough Shoal got its name from a British cargo ship that was grounded there on September 12, 1784the HMS Scarborough. Before the incident, the exact location and size of what was then called Bajo de Masinloc or Panacot shoal was not clear. In 1792, a five-year global scientific exploration from Spain known as the Malaspina Expedition after Commander Alessandro Malaspina, was able to accurately chart the location and size of Scarborough. After its location was properly charted, the Spanish government in Manila ordered a detailed survey of the shoal by sending the frigate Santa Lucia under command of Captain Francisco Riquelme in 1800. A second detailed survey of Scarborough was conducted on March 13-18, 1866 by the British ship HMS Swallow, led by Master Commander Edward Wilds, which came from Hong Kong and was headed back to England. The “Map of the Entire Empire and Frontier Countries” drawn in 1402 based on Yuan Dynasty maps. The Philippines appears as a small collection of spots in the lower right corner, west of the large patch that represents Japan. “That Spain began exercising jurisdiction at this time is very important. The end of the century saw the transfer of the Philippines to the United States (US) through t w o t r e a t i e s o f c e s s i o n ,” Batongbacal said. “While the Treaty of Paris of 1898 described the Philippine Islands as being comprised of all the islands within an irregular polygon, Spain also had sovereignty and jurisdiction over islands and places outside of the lines of that polygon. These islands and places were clarified to have also been transferred to the US under the terms of the Treaty of Washington of 1900,” he said. 2 ) [ FA C T ] P h i l i p p i n e sovereignty over Scarborough shoal continued under the US colonial government. A Swedish cargo steam ship, the SS Nippon, headed for Hong Kong from Manila was wrecked on Scarborough shoal due to a typhoon in 1913. Philippine maritime authorities, under the American colonial government, exercised jurisdiction over the shoal when they rescued the crew, salvaged the cargo, and conducted an investigation into the incident. The SS Nippon's cargo became the subject of a civil case between the ship owners and salvors that went all the way up to the Supreme Court which discussed the details of the incident elicited from shipowners, cargo owners, salvors, u Page 5 October 10-16, 2014 Page 4 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS ‘Hacienda Binay’ ... From page 1 after purchasing Sunchamp, and became its president. Greenergy's major stockholders are Earthright, Sunchamp and Three Star Capital, proof that the originallyrenewable energy company branched out into agritourism, Trillanes said. When his staff searched Greenergy's website, they discovered that its corporate secretary is Subido, he said. Subido is also director of Earthright, the largest shareholder of Greenergy, which owns controlling interest in Sunchamp, according to Trillanes. It turned out that Subido is a senior partner at Subido Pagente Certeza Mendoza & Binay Law Office, he said. Subido is a senior partner of the Vice President's daughter, Makati Rep. Abigail Binay, and Claro Certeza, lawyer for Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay Jr., he said. Greenergy also shares the same address of the law firm at the third floor of Value Point Executive Building on Salcedo Street, Legaspi Village, Makati, he said. “If you look at the website, it is agri-tourism, yet it has no telephone number. It was really set up as part of the cover-up,” Trillanes said. August despite the bad weather. “You know, when it was launched in Batangas, Typhoon 'Jose' was raging. I asked my staff, 'Is the launch pushing through?'” he said. “Mr. Tony Tiu is [ChineseFilipino], and they have what they call a ghost month - August. Why can't they postpone it? Well, apparently, everything was set up. There was full coverage,” he added. Cayetano said. “It's not that we presume him guilty now. But we can't presume him innocent because there is already evidence of illgotten wealth. It's now up to him to show that this is false,” he said. Binay's spokesman, Joey Salgado, said Binay divested himself of his interests in JCB Farms, a lessee of the property, when he was elected Vice President in 2010. Not a front Subido denied Sunchamp was a front for Binay. He confirmed he was the LIKE LONDON'S MAZE GARDEN. An aerial view of the 350-hectare agriculture estate in c o r porate secretary of Rosario, Batangas province that has a garden patterned after London's Kew Gardens. Greenergy Holdings, which Former Makati City Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado, who was on a helicopter when the invested in Sunchamp Realty to photo was taken last week, claims that the property is in the name of dummies of Vice develop its agri-tourism President Jejomar Binay. Contributed photo by former Makati City Vice Mayor Ernesto business. Mercado. “That cannot be because these companies are publicly l i s te d c o m p a n i e s a n d a l l disclosures are made,” he said in a statement. “The company is audited by one of the top four auditors of the country. We have foreign investors coming into the By Maricar Cinco “He would arrive either on a company or are part of the helicopter or travel by land. You'd not company. So definitely this is not ROSARIO, Batangas -- If you go by miss him because there were a lot of a dummy corporation or a fly-bythe municipal government records, escorts,” he said. night corporation because you cannot find documents that will A gate, about 3 meters high, Greenergy Holdings and show Vice President Jejomar Binay has blocked the view into what seemed to AgriNurture Inc. are both listed a business or real estate property in be an orchard. companies and they follow the this town. A peek through a crack on the gate strictest corporate governance But residents in the remote village revealed a network of concrete standards being listed of Maligaya in Rosario quickly refer to a driveways and large mango trees. companies,” he added. gated property, about 12 kilometers But Roger Basa, a security guard on Subido also said that Binay's from the town center, as owned or used the property, said the land was owned piggery business was reported to be owned by the Binays. by Antonio Tiu's Sunchamp Real Estate in his SALN and income tax A 67-year-old woman, who refused Development Corp. and never by the Proof of divestment returns. He said Binay divested to be identified, said she worked at the Binays. “Other people might think himself of his interests in AgriCleaning up their act? Binays' farm as an orchid cutter for 14 People going in and coming out of Trillanes disclosed that he that if they have their picture fortuna as early as 1994 and years until last year, when her daughter the property - one on a motorcycle, was invited to the launch of taken with you, or you are a 1995, and the shareholding was asked her to retire from work. another in a van - when the Inquirer Sunchamp Agri-Tourism Park in guest in their activities, you will worth only P50,000. “So, again, look at the SALN, In all those years she worked at the visited on Wednesday, Oct. 8, refused to August this year, along with be cleared,” Trillanes said. “We farm, the woman said the Binays were talk and claimed they were not from Secretary Francis Pangilinan and will grill you until you tell the the interest in Agrifortuna was reflected and that it was divested always her employers. The Vice the village. Agrarian Reform Secretary truth.” Cayetano also challenged the as early as 1994 or more than 20 Virgilio de los Reyes. He showed President, she said, often visited the Basa, who said he started working a slide showing a picture of Vice President to prove that his years ago. So, it is not something farm. “It was really big inside, with a for Sunchamp in 1997, said the himself, Tiu and De los Reyes divestment of his interests in the that happened just recently,” he private pool and a lot of greenhouses. I property was just about 2 hectares. farm was reflected in his said. He maintained that JCB was taken during the launch. think they were building one more “There's nothing inside but mango statement of assets, liabilities only leasing nine hectares, and “When it was launched, (greenhouse) by the time I left,” she trees,” he said. JCB Farm, the piggery does not own real property on there was an intention to use and networth (SALN). said. owned by Binay, ceased operating in In a divestment proceeding, the estate. several government officials, She said each greenhouse was t h i s tow n i n 2 0 1 0 , m u n i c i p a l “So, again, it is consistent including myself and Secretary one could not undertake a twice the size of her daughter's house, government records showed. with the documents but was Pangilinan, to clean its image simulated sale, he said. which is about 300 square meters. “ I t s h o u l d h a v e b e e n given a different spin, a different and to make it appear There were also a lot of pig houses, Municipal certification reflected as cash,” Cayetano said, interpretation by the resource legitimate,” Trillanes said. “but only those housing the sows were The municipality of Rosario, He said he was surprised to referring to Binay's sale of his speaker, because of their air conditioned,” she said. through the office of the municipal find during the launch that some interests. “How come P1 billion preconceived disposition on “[The Binays] used to tell us their administrator, lawyer Cipriano Asilo, how they want to portray the of the park's facilities, including is not in the SALN?” business was not earning much that's issued a certification “that as per Binay released copies of his Vice President. So, again, all of the pavement, looked old. why they never gave us a raise,” she records of this office, JCB Farm, with “This is one proof that Vice financial disclosures last month. our positions are based on said. She said she earned P4,000 a b u s i n e s s a d d re s s a t B a ra n gay President Binay is resorting to a The documents showed the Vice documents, while theirs are month. Bayawang, Rosario, Batangas, was a d u m m y , t h a n k s t o h i s President's net worth was P60 based on speculations and bare Another resident, Gas Arceo, said registered business since 1994 until statements,” he said. spokespersons. Attorney JV million as of the end of 2013. he had entered the property a few 2010 and ceased/stop their business “While it's true that there's a Subido, who also confirmed Bautista is here. I'm not more times through friends who worked at operations [in] the same year (2010).” popish than the Pope, but presumption of innocence - he was a law partner of the farm. “This also further certifies that because of what they said, we got that's why it's a presumption - Representative Binay, said the there is no record of JCB Farm in our to know who their dummy is,” he meaning you presumed in your o r c h i d f a r m o f t h e V i c e Frequent Binay visits current database of duly registered mind that he is innocent. But if President's wife, Elenita Binay, said. He said the Vice President businesses for the year 2014,” it added. Trillanes said Sunchamp y o u p r e s e n t e v i d e n c e , on the estate was also leased. frequented the farm and the last time The certification did not indicate couldn't wait to do the launch in presumption is reversed,” Inquirer.net u Page 5 he saw him was last month. Village folk readily say Binays own hacienda Aquino ... From page 1 Upon arrival, the President was met by Philippine Ambassador to Indonesia Ma. Rosario C. Aguinaldo and Col. Raniel Ramiro, the Philippines' defense and armed forces attaché. Indonesian officials were also at the airport to welcome him. Aquino will proceed to Nusa Dua Beach Hotel where he was billeted for the night. On Friday, Oct. 10, Aquino will co-chair the forum and Links to Makati gov't Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano presented slides showing Tiu's connection to the Makati city government. Cayetano said Tiu was president and CEO of AgriNurture Inc. (ANI), which traded in postharvest machinery and was formerly known as Mabuhay 2000 Enterprise. It eventually diversified into the agro-commercial business. Citing a report by Commission on Audit Commissioner Heidi Mendoza, he said Mabuhay supplied hospital beds to Ospital ng Makati in 2000. The audit team led by Mendoza confirmed this from Tiu himself, the senator said, citing the audit report. Trillanes moved that Tiu be subpoenaed to clarify how he was able to develop the 350hectare farm. This was seconded by Cayetano, who also moved for the issuance of a subpoena of Tiu's financial records. deliver his speech before highlevel representatives from 51 participant-countries as well as 68 international observers. He is set to highlight the Philippines' recent positive political and economic developments as well as the b i l a te ra l re l a t i o n s o f t h e Philippines and Indonesia. The forum, a two-day annual event with theme “Evolving Regional Democratic Architecture: the Dynamics of Political Development, SocioEconomic Progress and Public Participation in the Democratic Process,” will also be attended by Timor Leste Prime Minister Xanana Gusmao and the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam Hassanal Bolkiah. In the afternoon, the Indonesian government will confer upon Aquino its highest award, the “Bintang Republik Indonesia Adipurna (Star of the Republic of Indonesia).” Accompanying the President are Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, Cabinet Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, and Presidential Management Staff Secretary Julia Abad. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 5 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Entire Mindanao under mercy ... From page 2 power sector industry in the B a n g s a m o ro . Po we r p l a n t s a n d distribution networks in the Bangsamoro shall be able to interconnect and sell power over the national transmission grid to electric consumers,” the bill said. If the power plants are connected to the grid, the national and Bangsamoro government should “cooperate and coordinate through the intergovernmental relations mechanism.” Peace panel chair Miriam CoronelFerrer said the Bangsamoro may only take control of power plants under their jurisdiction while inter-government relations may only apply in case of conflict. Vicente Lao, chairman of the Mindanao Business Council, said the control over water and electricity should be clarified. “It should be properly monitored. Who will control the utilization of welfare and control of the grid so that we will not have problem in the future. We are now scared, we would like to protect the remaining areas, we want Mindanao to have cheaper power (rates),” Lao said. The recently submitted Bangsamoro bill seeks to implement the peace pact signed between the Philippine government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which hopes to end decades of Muslim secessionist movement in the region. Once the bill is passed by Congress, the law must be ratified by a plebiscite for the creation of a Bangsamoro political entity to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao. Inquirer.net Eco groups ... From page 2 legislator, I filed for a congressional inquiry in aid of legislation the unlawful importation of the 50 container vans filled with garbage. Clearly, this [dumping of waste in our country] is a reflection of our dignity as a nation,” said Paquiz in a statement. Von Hernandez, president of the EcoWaste Coalition and executive director of Greenpeace Southeast Asia, said the planned move would set a “wrong precedent.” “This government proposal sends a signal to unscrupulous and illegal waste traders to ship their unwanted junk to the Philippines. There can be no Village folk ... From page 4 who owned JCB Farm and municipal employees claimed they did not know who. Asilo gave the Inquirer a copy of the certification on Wednesday, Oct. 8, when asked about the Vice President's businesses in the town. The copy of the certification was dated Sept. 24, issued at the height of the Senate inquiry into the allegedly overpriced Makati City Hall Building II. The mayor of this town, Manuel Alvarez, is a member of the vice president's United Nationalist Alliance (UNA). JCB building A check in the municipal assessor's office here also showed that JCB Farm last declared real property tax in 2010. Maritime ... From page 3 and insurance companies. “The facts narrated, as well as the case itself, demonstrates the free and absolute exercise of governmental powers by the Philippines, as well as the application of Philippine law to activities taking place on the shoal,” Batongbacal said. The US Commonwealth Government, in 1937, considered the shoal as a part of the Philippines after considerable research if there were other claimants. “A l l t h r o u g h o u t t h e Commonwealth Period, the Philippine Government had always considered Scarborough Shoal under its exclusive sphere of influence, marking it prominently in maps of the Commonwealth and continuously exercising particularly maritime jurisdiction over the shoal,” Batongbacal said. 3) [FACT] Scarborough shoal continued to be under sovereign rule of the Philippines even after it had gained full independence from the US. The Philippine Coast and Geodetic Survey conducted a fourday mapping survey of Scarborough shoal led by Lieutenant Commander Antonio Ventura in 1961. A hut with a tide and current station was also installed on the biggest rock, Batongbacal said. Another ship, a French vessel, was wrecked on Scarborough in 1963 and the crew was rescued by a commercial vessel and a US Navy ship. That same year, the Philippine Navy found and destroyed a smuggler's outpost on the shoal which was being used to bring contraband into the Philippines. “An actual photograph of the facility was published in the newspapers. The Philippine Navy sent ships to bombard the wharf t w i c e i n t h e s a m e m o n t h ,” Batongbacal said. “No other government action c a n e x p re s s s ove re i g n t y s o completely and convincingly than this enforced destruction of these illegal facilities,” he said. Following the anti-smuggler operation, the Philippine government declared a 20-mile radius around the shoal as a US Naval Operating Area turning it into a target and bombing range for the Philippine and US Navy. Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, the Philippines warned all international ships passing near Scarborough shoal of live fire exercises and missile firing exercises by the US Navy operating from Subic Bay. “All these exercises of sovereignty were uninterrupted and conducted peacefully and openly, without protest from any country including China, all throughout this time,” Batongbacal said. 4) [FICTION] China's claim of first discovery of Scarborough shoal under the Yuan Dynasty in the 13th century. China claims it has first discovered Scarborough in the 13th century under the Yuan Dynasty. The Yuan Dynasty however, was established by Kublai Khan of the Mongol Empire which had conquered China. “If Bajo de Masinloc was indeed acquired by virtue of discovery, then such discovery could only be in the name of the sovereign, the Mongol Empire. Perhaps it should therefore be claimed by the remnant of the Mongol Empire, which is Mongolia, compromises here. This garbage shipment must be sent back to Canada, its country of origin. The Philippine government must do everything it can to prevent these incidents from happening ever again in the future,” Hernandez said. “Why our government is even contemplating on accepting these illegal wastes when international law is behind us is exasperating,” noted lawyer Richard Gutierrez, executive director of BAN Toxics. In April, the groups launched an online petition on change.org urging the Canadian embassy in the Philippines to facilitate the return of the garbage back to Canadian soil. As of press time, the petition has garnered 23,631 supporters. Inquirer.net But according to the assessor's office computer database, the only property under the name, JCB Farm, was a building (records did not indicate the number of floors) with a floor area of 728 square meters and a market value of P1,520,064, classified for “agribusiness” use. The JCB building was located on a property owned by a certain Renato Comia from Barangay Baybayin, while the land is located in Barangay Maligaya. Maligaya, Bayawang and Baybayin are neighboring villages. “That's the only record we have (of JCB),” said municipal assessor Guillerma Delen. No one in the office could say who Comia is. T h e n a m e A g r i fo r t u n a I n c . , reportedly the registered name of JCB Farm in the Securities and Exchange Commission, did not come up in a quick search into the assessor's computer database. Inquirer.net not China,” Batongbacal said. The name “Huangyan Island,” or even its existence, never appeared in any of China's ancient maps meaning China did not know the location, size, or shape of Scarborough shoal during that time. “Chinese cartographers did not give the Philippines much importance, as compared with Japan, Taiwan, and Hainan. China at the time clearly did not have full and accurate knowledge of even the largest islands of our archipelago,” Batongbacal said. “If it could not even determine the location, size, or shape of Luzon, then much less could it identify the infinitesimal rocks and reef of Bajo de Masinloc. China could not possibly claim discovery in this period, since information from the period itself is non-committal,” he said. 5) [FACT] China was fully aware that the Philippines was inhabited by seafaring people and even feared them. Under the Tang dynasty some 700 years before the Yuan, Chinese a n n a l s w ro te o f s l ave - ra i d s conducted by Visayans going as far north as Fujian province in mainland China. “As early as the 7th and 10th century, the ancestors of the Filipinos had established contact with China under the Tang Dynasty 700 years before the Yuan. Thus China knew very well that the islands of the Philippines were inhabited by coastal seafaring peoples,” Batongbacal said. “Chinese annals such as the 'Chu Fan Chi' of Chau Ju Kuo even [spoke] in fear of the slave-raiding expeditions of the Visayans, reaching as far north as the coast of Fujian Province. Thus, it was Philippine ancestors, not Chinese, who were the masters of the Southeast Asian seas,” he said. 6) [FICTION] China claims to be the first to name Scarborough shoal as “Huangyan Island” based on ancient maps. China claims that it has named the shoal as “Huangyan Island” as early as 1983 in a map that then showed 11-dashed lines around the South China Sea. “The original map (containing 11 dashed lines), gave the reef the Sinicized name of Scarborough. Thus, the very first name given for a place discovered in ancient times was the Chinese version of an English name given by English cartographers,” Batongbacal said. “This is stark evidence that as late as 1947, China did not even know of the shoal, and only became aware of it from British Admiralty charts,” he said. China only called the shoal as “Huangyan Island” after it conducted a hydrographic survey around 1983 without permission from the Philippines. At one point, the shoal was named Minzhu Reef and was mistakenly grouped as part of the Spratly Islands that was as far as 260 nautical miles South. “For China, “Huangyan Island” only came into existence in 1983, and it was nothing more than a pinpoint on a map as far as its government was concerned,” Batongbacal said. “The only time it attempted to exercise any kind of jurisdiction over Bajo de Masinloc was in 1994, when it issued a permit to an amateur radio operator to set up an amateur radio station on the shoal, igniting the present day dispute over it,” he said.Photo from www.imoa.ph. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 6 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Revilla P87M deposits ... From page 1 dummy corporation, Nature Concepts Development and Realty Corp., controlled by his wife. The AMLC said the deposits and withdrawals from the bank accounts of the five foundations corresponded with the names, amounts and dates in the entries made by Luy, Napoles' finance officer, in his ledger of Napoles' cash and check disbursements, one of the evidence in the P10billion pork barrel scam case. “Considering all the foregoing, there are indications of money laundering scheme using the aforementioned bank accounts. There is, however, a need to conduct further investigation to determine the extent of the subjects' participation and identify the other monetary instruments that were possibly involved in the laundering scheme,” the AMLC said in a confidential report received by the Office of the Ombudsman on Oct. 8. Presented in court The Ombudsman prosecution team, led by Director Joefferson B. Toribio, presented the report in court as its latest evidence in the plunder case against Revilla. The report was presented in court through the testimony of AMLC Bank Officer II Leigh Von Santos, who said a similar report involving the PDAF transactions of other accused pork plunderers Senators Jinggoy Estrada and Juan Ponce Enrile - was being prepared. Justice Undersecretary Jose Justiniano, an adviser to the prosecution team, said the AMLC report was “important” in proving that Revilla did receive the kickbacks through his aide Richard Cambe. “When we took up the case, we did not know the extent or who would be included, we had only Luy's testimony and files to work on,” Justiniano said. “The lifting of the bank secrecy law definitely strengthened our case because we are now talking of documentary evidence and not only testimonial evidence.” Justiniano refused to echo Justice Secretary Leila de Lima's description of the evidence against Revilla as “slam dunk,” as h e p re fe r re d t o l e ave t h e assessment of the evidence to the court. Pattern in funds flow The AMLC found a pattern in the flow of funds of the deposit accounts of five Napoles-owned foundationsAgri and Economic Program for Farmers Foundation Inc. (AEPFFI), Agricultura para sa Magbubukid Foundation Inc. (APMFI), Masaganang Ani para sa Magsasaka Foundation Inc. (MAMFI), Philippine Social Development Foundation Inc. (PSDFI) and Social Development Program for Farmers Foundation I n c . ( S D P F F I ) t h a t re c e ive d Revilla's pork barrel funds: The f u n d s we re w i t h d raw n by Napoles' staff members, like whistle-blowers Luy, Marina Sula and Merlina Suñas, and accused plunderers Evelyn de Leon and John Raymond de Asis, even though they were not officially linked to a specific foundation. They used JLN Corp. IDs to identify themselves in withdrawing the money, thus establishing a link between Napoles and the foundation. The deposit accounts were used as temporary repository of funds since the money was immediately withdrawn practically on the same day it was deposited. And all withdrawals were made in cash despite the huge amounts involved - as much as P35 million in one day. Based on the AMLC's forensic investigation of Revilla's and his family's joint bank account transactions for four years, from April 6, 2006, to April 28, 2010, the Revillas made a total of P87.626 million in various bank deposits and investments within 30 days from the dates recorded in Luy's ledger. Luy claimed that the “rebates” of Revilla were received by the senator's senior staff member Cambe, coaccused in the plunder case. 81 bank accounts The investigation covered 81 bank accounts that were allowed to be opened by the Court of Appeals on May 28 and Aug. 15 this year. “This fortifies the veracity of the contents [of the] ledger. According to Luy, the foregoing withdrawals were used to fund several cash disbursements of [Napoles] from 2006 to 2010, including the cash given to Revilla through Cambe totaling P224,512,500,” the AMLC said. Justiniano explained that the AMLC did not include deposit accounts Revilla used for his “legitimate” earnings as a movie actor and television personality. “It's hard to think that the cash deposits he made were legitimate because the amounts involved were huge. If the source of the funds were legitimate, these would have been deposited through checks and not cash,” Justiniano said. Unexplained wealth The AMLC also said it found “ d i s p a r i t i e s ” a n d “inconsistencies” in the cash and i n v e s t m e n t va l u e s R e v i l l a declared in his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) submitted from 2004 to 2010 and with his cash and investments extracted from various bank and investment accounts, with the difference between what he declared and what he actually had in his bank accounts, ranging from P49 million in 2004 to a high of P94 million in 2007. The AMLC said this was “an indication of concealment of unexplained wealth.” But Justiniano said it would be “overkill” to file a case of unexplained wealth against Revilla, as the plunder case was more than enough to put him in jail if convicted. The AMLC investigation also uncovered a total of P27.745 million in funds deposited in 2010 in the account of Nature Concepts, a real estate firm formed by Revilla's wife, Representative Mercado, in March 2006 with a minimum paid-up capital of P62,500. The company did not file financial statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission from 2007 to 2010, the AMLC found. Same lawyer as Napoles The AMLC said the firm's incorporation papers and other corporate documents were notarized by Joel G. Gordola, the same lawyer consulted by Napoles in forming some of her bogus foundations. Justiniano said there was no plan to charge Mercado with plunder, even if she is a public official, because she was not included in the charge sheet. The AMLC said the investments and bank accounts were “terminated immediately before and after the PDAF scandal circulated in [the] media.” The Inquirer published its sixpart pork barrel scam series in August 2013. Inquirer.net Got hurt at work? LISA A. ARKIN, ESQ. NO CHARGE CONSULTATIONS “Dedicated to helping injured workers” 201-444-1078 Wwww.lisaarkinlaw.com www.lisaarkin.com Advocates celebrate first anniversary of passage of AB 60, which gives driver' licenses to undocumented immigrants. AJPRESS photo Few undocumented Filipinos ... From page 1 Joe Bernardo, a Filipino-American policy analyst for the Mayor's Office of Immigrant Affairs, lamented that only a handful of Filipinos have shown up at the recent driver's license educational forums organized by the city. Bernardo, who coordinates most of the forums, said only one Filipino family showed up to both of their recent outreach events in Van Nuys and Canoga Park. “We try to reach out to the Filipino community, but only one family showed up,” Bernardo said. “We had 350 attendees for the first one in Van Nuys, only one Filipino family was there. In Canoga Park, maybe 200 people showed up, there was only one Filipino family there,” he added. Most of the people who attend the forums to learn more about the driver's license are from the Latino community, Bernardo observed. Just like DACA Bernardo compared the low turnout for the undocumented driver's license forums to the Deferred Action applications among Filipino youths. According to community groups, fewer than 20 percent of the eligible Filipino youths apply for DACA. Bernardo said that this could be caused by a prevalent stigma in the F i l i p i n o c o m m u n i t y re g a rd i n g undocumented immigrants. “People are scared. But I think people need to be u Page 8 October 10-16, 2014 Page 7 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS 25TH ANNUAL TTG TRAVEL AWARDS PH is Asia-Pacific's 'Destination of the Year’ Palace hopes 'Destination of the Year' award will bring more tourists to PH By Ivan De lara, Marc Jayson Cayabyab MANILA -- Even one of AsiaPacific's most prestigious travel and trade resources agrees: It's more fun in the Philippines. The country bagged the “Destination of the Year” award during the 25th Annual TTG Travel Awards, the Department of Tourism said in a statement on Thursday, Oct. 2. The Philippines was cited as Asia-Pacific's “Destination of the Year” for 2014 in a ceremony held in Bangkok, Thailand because of its “proactive steps and initiatives toward the development of the travel industry.” Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. accepted the award during the ceremony at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Center in Thailand on October 2. “This award belongs to all Filipinos. It is the Filipino people that have ensured the acceptance of 'It's More Fun in the Philippines' as a true and accurate description of the participative and active role every Filipino plays in ensuring a successful and enjoyable visit to the Philippines,” Jimenez said. The Destination of the Year falls under the Outstanding Achievement Awards. Other categories include Travel Personality of the Year, Best Travel Entrepreneur, Best Marketing and Relationship Effort and Best Trade Supporter. The TTG Travel Awards is one of the most coveted awards in the region's travel industry, organized by the TTG Asia Media's Travel Trade Publishing group. The recognition is seen as a big boost for Philippine tourism, especially as the Department of Tourism prepares its “Visit the Philippines” campaign for 2015. “Again, the determination of the Filipino people, coupled with the support of our President, Benigno S. Aquino III, is our inspiration to build a brighter tourism future for the Philippines - an industry that is more profitable and more inclusive,” Jimenez said. Previous top destinations cited by TTG were Singapore in 2010 and 2011, and Thailand in 2012 and 2013. As of July 2014, 2,861,572 tourist arrivals have been recorded by the government. Malacañang hopes that more tourists will visit the Philippines after the country was named as “Destination of the Year” by one of Asia-Pacific's most prestigious travel and trade resources. “Hopefully, this new accolade will bring more of our friends from all over the globe to our country to experience the sights and the beautiful places that our country has to offer,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said Saturday. Malacañang congratulated the Department of Tourism for its successful campaign, which gave the Philippines the recognition. “We do not doubt that the campaign continues to spread because mainly it is true that it is 'more fun in the Philippines,” Valte said. The Philippines bagged the “Destination of the Year” award during the 25th Annual TTG Travel Awards. The country was recognized because of its “proactive steps and initiatives toward the development of the travel industry.” Inquirer.net Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez Jr. accepts the award during the ceremony at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Center in Thailand. Contributed photo/www.gov.ph The heritage Village in Vigan City remains busy at night as tourists enjoy walking on its cobblestone streets and ride in calesa (horse-drawn carriages) that ply the city famous for its rich culture and Spanish-era mansions. Leoncio Balbin Jr. Vigan one of 14 wonder cities finalists By Cristina Arzadon VIGAN CITY -- This heritage city in Ilocos Sur province is a step closer to becoming one of the new seven wonder cities of the world after the latest round of online voting pushed it into the list of 14 finalists. Netizens flooded Vigan's campaign page on Facebook moments after Bernard Weber, founder and president of the New7Wonders, announced at 1 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 8, the Top 14 cities that made it to the world race. They egged the city on to secure its Top 7 spot, with the winners to be announced on Dec. 7. Edgardo de la Cruz, city tourism officer, said the road to the final cut in December was no walk in the park. “The selection is lean and mean. Vigan is up against the biggest cities of the world,” he said. The other finalists in the New7Wonders Cities are Barcelona (Spain), Beirut (Lebanon), Chicago (United States), Doha (Qatar), Durban (South Africa), Havana (Cuba), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), La Paz (Bolivia), London (United Kingdom), Mexico City (Mexico), Perth (Australia), Quito (Ecuador) and Reykjavik (Iceland). Weber described the roster of finalists as “inspiring as it is enlightening.” 1,200 nominees Some 1,200 cities were nominated since the start of the global competition, u Page 8 October 10-16, 2014 Page 8 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Fil-Am solon will push for health coverage of undocumented in California By Jun Nucum SAN FRANCISCO -- The lone Filipino-American member the California State Assembly vowed to push for legislation that would provide health care coverage for all Californians regardless of immigration status. If passed, the law would benefit an estimated two million undocumented immigrants in California including thousands of the 1.2 million Filipinos in the state. Assembly Member Rob Bonta, buoyed by the huge enrollment figures in the state for the new Affordable Care Act, promised to push for the passage of Senate Bill 1005, authored by Senator Ricardo Lara, that would give undocumented immigrants access to coverage. Unfortunately, their efforts have the bill passed this year stalled, even after it passed the policy committee. Bonta was the keynote speaker at a recent New America Media special newsmaker briefing titled “A Report Card on Health Care Reform: Who's Covered, Who Isn't, What's Next?” “The senate bill was held in the appropriations committee where discussions, debate and questions about how it would be paid for were raised,” rued Bonta. “The legislative process is over for this year, the bill will not be signed this year.” Sons of immigrants Proponents of the bill also have to contend with the firm belief of some people that undocumented Few undocumented Filipinos ... From page 6 more brave, and know that LA is a sanctuary for them,” Bernardo stated. He pointed out that in Los Angeles, the immigrant community can enjoy a lot of rights that may not be available to them in other places. “I think that Filipinos should take full advantage of all the rights they have, whether they're undocumented or not here in the US,” he said. Bernardo, who admitted that he also has relatives and friends who are undocumented, said that he understands why a lot of people who are “out of status” are scared to come out into the open. However, he pointed out that in the last few years, Los Angeles has enacted progressive measures that allow the city to become more inclusive of all people, regardless of whether they have papers or not. There should be little to no reasons now for undocumented Filipinos to be afraid to come out, he said. As far as the license itself is concerned, immigrant rights advocate Anthony Ng said that there are protective measures in place that will help prevent the license holder's security from being compromised. For example, the approved design for the license will very closely resemble a regular California driver's license, save for a small marking on the side that would indicate federal limitations. The new design does not disclose the immigration status of a license holder. Fu r t h e r m o re , t h e S t a te o f California has begun training its highway patrol officers and law California Assembly Member Rob Bonta (left), Nicole Saulsberry, Akiko Aspillaga and Beatrice Sanchez at New America Media newsmaker briefing in San Francisco. Photo by Jun Nucum immigrants do not deserve to benefit from services because they are in the United States illegally. Both Bonta and bill author Senator Lara are sons of immigrants and strong supporters of the undocumented and known for working for health care coverage for as many Californians as possible. Since budget considerations were the main reasons for the bill's rough sailing in the legislature, Bonta explained that investment in the less costly front end of the health care system particularly in wellness and prevention programs, could actually lessen the pressure on health care spending as a whole. “Estimates show that we spend around $1.3 billion on undocumented Californians,” he said, “but we would spend in the enforcement agents on how to properly interact with people who hold this kind of license. Ng also pointed out that in relation to AB 60, additional legislation was passed to ensure confidentiality of the license holders' information. Culturally competent outreach Ng, who works for Asian Americans Advancing Justice LA, said that the low turnout could be mainly due to the Filipino community being “hard to reach.” Ng, a Filipino DACA recipient himself, emphasized the need for culturally competent communication, in terms of the outreach efforts to ethnic groups. He said that ethnic media play a huge role in dispelling misconceptions surrounding new services for the undocumented community. Ng also pointed out that the culturally competent outreach on AB 60, whether it's through ethnic media or through community groups, would also help prevent immigrants from becoming victims of fraud. According to community leaders, applicants should be wary of fraudulent offers, including those that promise to expedite the process or replace required documents with other documentation. “[We're] making sure that they don't become victims of fraud. The only place that you can pay is the DMV. No one else is processing it other than the DMV,” Ng said. Ng said that Filipinos who want to apply for the license should not hesitate to seek for help from trusted community partners, like Advancing Justice LA. The community partners, he explained, are more than willing to help immigrants prepare their documents for the application process and provide in-language assistance to those who need it. Inquirer.net range of $350-460 million if we provided health coverage as well as wellness and preventative care. If you are diagnosed, treated and managed early enough (then you) avoid the costly trips to the hospital.” Not much more costly Tanya Broder, a senior staff attorney at the National Immigration L a w C e n t e r, e c h o e d B o n t a' s argument. “The University of California in both Los Angeles and Berkeley has determined that it won't cost too much even to extend Medi-Cal coverage.” “Results show that it would only cost two cents extra on a Medi-Cal dollar to get a full coverage in California for everyone. It is not too much to spend for something that will help all of us,” Broder stated. Bonta said he and the bill's supporters have to satisfy Gov. Jerry Brown's and their legislative colleagues' on how to pay for the cost of covering everyone, including the undocumented. “We need to do our best to accommodate their concerns without diluting the importance of this bill, Bonta acknowledged.” Meanwhile, before the bill is passed, undocumented immigrants and their families' medical needs will have suffer through lack of coverage. Broder reported that because of the Affordable Care Act, additional 3.1 million people have received coverage in California. “However, half of the 2.7 to 3.4 million of the remaining uninsured are ineligible because of their immigration status.” Undocumented and uninsured Vigan ... From page 7 initiated by Swiss nonprofit New7Wonders Foundation and which aims to preserve the world's man-made and natural heritage sites. The foundation was behind the campaign that named Puerto Princesa City one of the world's New7Wonders of Nature in 2011. “The short list will now help voters to focus their understanding on a key trend s h a p i n g o u r wo rl d todayurbanization,” Eamonn Fitzgerald, head of communication at New7Wonders, said in a statement. “Whether it is innovation or income inequality, or migration or mass transport, some of the most provocative questions of our time are being debated in the context of a changing world in which the majority of humanity lives in cities,” Fitzgerald said. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) inscribed Vigan on the World Heritage list in 1999, citing the city for its “best practice in sustainable conservation and management of world heritage properties.” One of six Unesco World Heritage sites in the Philippines, Vigan, also the capital of Ilocos Sur, is dubbed as the best-preserved example of a planned Spanish colonial town in Asia. De la Cruz said Vigan Mayor Eva Marie Medina had been up all m o r n i n g o n W e d n e s d a y, responding to congratulatory messages and thanked Filipinos here and abroad for supporting Vigan's bid. Appeal for support “Having come this far, the unprecedented votes from local and international communities affirm that Vigan is truly a wonder city,” Medina said in a statement. “I t h e re fo re a p p e a l fo r yo u r unequivocal support in the final leg of the search as we are up against formidable megacities.” De la Cruz said he had no means to monitor where the Vigan votes were coming from. “We firmly believe since the Philippines is the world's texting capital, text votes from Filipinos have helped us to the final round.” Race organizers said voting in the final round would now continue across a range of platforms such as dedicated iOS and Android apps, international telephone voting lines and, where available, via national short messaging service (SMS). They did not divulge the rankings when they announced the cities that made it to the next round. Selection process According to New7Wonders, each voting session done online and via the mobile applications produces seven votes, one each for a different chosen finalist. On the other hand, each vote via telephone voting line or text message produces one vote for that chosen finalist. Each of these votes has equal status, and the votes are added up to determine the chosen New7Wonders Cities. The Switzerland-based foundation has enabled international phone voting using Such is the plight of Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients Beatrice Sanchez and summa cum laude nursing graduate Akiko Aspillaga, a Filipina, who were brave enough to share their experiences of being undocumented and uninsured. President Barack Obama ordered that action on deportation be deferred for undocumented children who were under 31 years of age as of June 15, 2012, came to the U.S. while under the age of 16 and have continuously resided here from June 15, 2007 to the present, among other stipulations. DACA recipients are allowed to work, may apply for a driver's license and are eligible for Medi-Cal. Until recently, however, an estimated 20,000 of about 37,000 (54 percent) potential DACA recipients are Filipinos who have not availed of the program. Sanchez, who had been afraid to see a doctor since a school accident at the age of seven for fear of steep medical bills. She also endures her mother's lack of medical benefits. “My mom continued to work hard while fast developing diabetes that had gone worse until she fell into a coma,” Sanchez recalled. Aspillaga's mom, on the hand, had to take over the counter pain relievers to temporarily ease whatever pain she feels. She told of her mother's desperation: “Anak (My child), if I die, sell all my jewelry, my possessions so you can bury me without debt. But anak, if I go to the hospital I will bury you in debt.” Inquirer.net t h e f o l l o w i n g numbers+881821611990; + 8 8 1 9 2 1 6 1 1 9 9 0 ; + 3 4 9 0 2 7 3 5 4 7 1 ; + 4 4 7 5 8 9 9 7 5 2 0 1 ; +447559121023; and +447559583500. B e fo re We d n e s d ay ' s announcement, Fitzgerald said the rankings among the 21 remaining cities were changing daily. “(T)hat shows how dynamic and exciting this campaign is,” he said, adding that a photo finish was expected for the list of 14 finalists. “Vigan always appears last in the roll because winners are announced in alphabetical order,” he said. He said Vigan was always assigned with the last number code in the international phone voting but this seemed to have never worked to the city's disadvantage. “From Code 28 (the initial number assigned in the previous round), we always get the last number but we make it to the next round nonetheless,” he said. He said Vigan's multimedia platform campaign also helped draw more votes for the city. To support Vigan's campaign, Ilocos Sur Gov. Ryan Luis Singson issued a memorandum to all provincial government offices and towns and cities in the province asking employees to conduct simultaneous voting from 8 to 9 a.m. on Tuesday. “The win of Vigan is the triumph of Ilocos Sur and the entire nation,” Singson said. The Department of Foreign Affairs, meanwhile, has urged Filipinos to vote for Vigan. Public may vote online via new7wonders.com. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 9 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS PH Dept. of Tourism Asst. Sec. Benito Bengzon speaks before Filipino American leaders in Washington DC Sept. 19, 2014. Bring Medicare Home! PH Med. Tourism booth: Dr. Erie Agustin (NY), Daisy Tucay The Medical City, Makati Med, St. Luke's and PH DoT reps with World Medical RN, PRA Gen.Manager Vernie Atienza, & Zeny Pallugna (NY Tourism Congress officials. Consulate DoT) PH Medical Tourism Officials Urged to Support Feasibility Study WASHINGTON, DC -- The PH Medical Tourism delegation led by Tourism Asst. Sec. Benito Bengzon and the representatives of the top Manila hospitals were urged by the US Medicare PH advocacy organization to support a Medicare portability feasibility study during a September 19 luncheon forum at the PH Embassy. The estimated cost of the study is $200,000. The accredited PH hospitals were represented by St. Lukes' senior V.P. Marilen Lagniton, The Medical City Marketing Director Millete Escasinas, Makati Med V.P. Arlyn Songco & Asian Hospital's founder Dr. Jorge Garcia. They later participated at the prestigious 7 t h World Medical Tourism Congress in the Gaylord Convention Center in the nation's capital. The PH Retirement Authority (PRA) Gen. Manager Vernie Atienza joined them. Atienza hosted the chair, Daisy Tucay RN, and the organizer Eric Lachica of the advocacy campaign during the three-day educational conference where thousands of delegates attended fro m a do ze n c o u n t ri e s a n d international healthcare industries. " We a p p e a l e d t o t h e P H Department of Tourism to commit to the cause of Medicare Portability for the tens of thousands visiting FilAms seniors by ensuring high quality health standards and keeping medical costs low in the homeland. We need the feasibility study to provide the marketing research and statistics to bolster the healthcare and retirement businesses there,” said DaisyTucay. Eric Lachica of US Medicare PH said, "We stressed to the delegation that feasibility study is necessary to persuade US Medicare Advantage insurance companies to invest and provide long term full coverage for American retirees there. We need to build their confidence in doing business with the top PH hospitals and their doctors." The advocates also submitted a letter to the PH Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez. Medicare coverage in the PH is a major concern of 400,000 Americans residing in the PH. They have raised this issue with members of the US congress and the U.S. Ambassador in Manila. The advocacy group wants Medicare Advantage (Part C) insurance companies to pay directly the top Philippine hospitals and their doctors for treating American retirees using the current Guam model and TRICARE PH Demonstration project. The proposed PH healthcare industry study would show the past year's cost savings experience and the quality of care provided to ten thousand US military retirees in the TRICARE PH program and the 30,000 Guam Medicare American beneficiaries who are treated at the top PH hospitals at negotiated low prices. E a r l i e r i n J a n u a r y, t h e organization leaders launched their 2014 campaign with their Manila based partners including the Retirement & Healthcare Coalition (www.rhc.com.ph), formed by the four influential foreign chambers of commerce (American, European, Japanese and Korean). If TRICARE and Medicare federal Guam benefits are good for them, why not for Americans on the US mainland, they asked. Medicare will be facing cuts of spending in the range of two to five billion dollars per month, according to US Congressional Budget Office. The group estimated that a billion dollars of Medicare expenses could be saved yearly if 200,000 Filipino Americans seniors retire and are covered in the PH compared to if they resided in the US. The anticipated results of the study would build confidence of insurance companies paid by Medicare: United Healthcare, Carefirst, Kaiser, Humana, Molina, Blue Cross, Aetna and others to do business with the top PH hospitals and their accredited doctors to realize tremendous savings. Currently, certain policies of these companies only provide TEMPORARY worldwide emergency /medically necessary coverage (6months maximum) for Medicare seniors who travel overseas. Join the campaign! Call Eric Lachica and Daisy Tucay 202 2461998, www.USMedicarePH.org, USA 202-246-1998. Bitter truth: Filipinos more likely to have diabetes By Aries Joseph Hegina INQUIRER.net photo MANILA -- Here is the bitter truth without the sugar coating: simply being a Filipino puts you in the risk of having diabetes. Doctor Cynthia Rosanna Halili Manabat, past president of Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism, said that Filipinos are more prone to diabetes because of their lifestyle choices. “First, Asians are more prone to diabetes than other ethnic groups; second, having adapted the Western “fastfood” lifestyle, more Filipinos are becoming obese; third, rice and other foods rich in carbohydrates play a central role in our diet; and lastly, Filipinos simply love to eat,” Manabat said Tuesday in a press briefing. Manabat said that these practices resulted in the rise in the number of Filipinos diagnosed to have the disease: from 3.4 percent of the country's population in 2003, it increased to 4.8 percent in 2008 and spiked to 5.1 percent in 2013. The doctor also said that more than four million people are diabetics but more Filipinos are unaware that they have the disease. If diabetes remains unabated, the World Health Organization stated that by 2030, it will be the seventh cause of death worldwide. vgslaw@gmail.com Manabat added that if diabetes is compounded with obesity, the risk of death for the diabetic will increase by 20 to 40 percent. In order to assuage the threat of d i a b e te s a n d o b e s i t y, A s t ra Z e n e c a introduced Dapagliflozin, a drug which targets the kidney and flushes out the glucose through urine. The said drug will also aid in weight loss and blood pressure reduction. However, AstraZeneca cautioned that the drug should only be used by diabetics who are diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus. The drug is now available at drugstores in the Philippines at P61.75 per pill and should be taken once a day. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 10 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS High cruelty World Animal Day was marked last Oct. 4, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. In these parts and elsewhere on the planet, people took their beloved pets for a special treat, or to chapels and churches to be blessed. But earlier in the month, as though to herald the day reserved for creatures big and small, a La Union court sentenced a couple to double life terms and ordered them to pay more than P9 million in penalties for hiring minors to torture and kill small animals for fetish videos sold online. The couple, Dorma and Vicente Ridon, were arrested in Burgos town in 2011 and charged with violating the Wildlife Protection and Conservation Act (Republic Act No. 9147) and the Anti-Child Abuse Act (RA 7610), among others. La Union Regional Trial Court Judge Alpino Florendo of Branch 30 found the Ridons guilty of hiring girls aged between 12 and 18, dressing them in provocative attire, and having them torture small animals to death. The acts that the girls were made to do, filmed on video, would make even the stone-cold blanch: skinning a dog alive, cutting off rabbits' ears and torching the animals, crushing puppies with stiletto heels, etc. Snuff videos, in effect, for which the girls were paid anything from P100 to P1,000 each, and which were sold on the Internet to “sexual fetishists” in Australia, France, Korea, Malaysia, the United Kingdom and the United States, according to the animal rights group People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) Asia-Pacific. A concerned person had found the videos online and brought the matter to Peta, which then sought the arrest of the Ridon couple, Inquirer Northern Luzon reported. “Cases such as this one show why we must never be silent about cruelty to animals,” Peta said in a statement. It's particularly reprehensible when helpless creatures are violated, and the couple's conviction is a high-water mark in child and animal protection. The violation has the added horror of having minors involved in acts of high cruelty in exchange for money. Unfortunately, this terrible case isn't the first time that animals have been maltreated and abused in the Philippines for profit. In 2011, authorities raided a dog-fighting club in Indang, Cavite. A scant four months later, over 300 malnourished and badly injured pit bulls were discovered in another dog-fighting operation in Laguna. It turned out that the two illegal operations were being run by the same people, a group of Koreans who were out on bail for the first raid. The dogs were made to fight in five-minute bouts broadcast live on the Internet using expensive equipment; the bets received ran up to P37,900. There were at least two sad discoveries in this case. One was that among the dogs rescued in the raids, at least 70 were in such bad shape that they had to be put down. The other was that the arrested Koreans faced relatively minor penalties for their acts. The Animal Welfare Act (RA 8485) imposed on violators a piddling fee of P5,000 and a jail term of six months up to a maximum of two years. Back then, animal rights groups led by the Philippine Animal Welfare Society or PAWS led the call for a heightening of penalties for the abuse and maltreatment of What To Do If Your Immigration Case Is Denied If the USCIS denies an application or petition, it will send a denial notice to the applicant or petitioner explaining the reasons for the denial. The applicant or petitioner may appeal the decision to the USCIS Administrative Appeals Office (AAO) or the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA). The denial notice will provide information about his appeal rights. The applicant or petitioner, with certain exceptions, may also file a motion to reopen or reconsider. If there is no right to appeal, the applicant or petitioner may still file a motion with the USCIS. Also, where the option to appeal is available and the decision made on appeal is still unfavorable, a motion to reopen or reconsider may be filed. In a visa petition case, the beneficiary cannot file an appeal or motion unless he is also the petitioner such as in the case of a VAWA self-petitioner, widow/er of a citizen and other visa petitions where the beneficiary selfpetitions. When an applicant or petitioner files an appeal, he is requesting a higher authority of the original deciding office to review the decision due to the incorrect application of law or misinterpretation of pertinent facts of the case. Generally, a decision denying a family-based petition is appealable to the BIA. The appeal is made on Form EOIR-29, Notice of Appeal to the Board of Immigration Appeals from a Decision of an INS Officer, and is filed with the office that originally made the decision. Most appeals, with certain exceptions, are made on Form I-290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion. The denial notice will provide the instructions as to which form to use and where to file it. When the applicant or petitioner appeals the decision to the AAO, the adjudicating officer who made the original decision will review the record. If the officer determines that reopening or reconsidering the case is not warranted, the case will be forwarded to the AAO or the BIA. The appeal must be filed within the set period indicated in the denial notice which is generally 30 days from the date of the decision. Shorter period may apply to some cases. There is no extension for the set deadline. A brief may be submitted with the appeal. The brief and other supporting evidence may be filed u Page 12 High-risk duty u Page 12 Publisher/Editor-in-Chief: Lito A. Gajilan, Jr. Columnists: Reuben S. Seguritan, Esq., Juan L. Mercado, Joseph G. Lariosa Correspondent: Grace G. Baldisseri The opinions expressed by columnists are their own and do not reflect the opinion of the paper nor that of the publisher. Email: filexpress@aol.com Phone: 201-434-1114 Fax 201-434-0880 2711 John F. Kennedy Boulevard, Jersey City, NJ 07306 “If we let this pass, no significant witness will testify… because of fear,” Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago fumed. She seeks 24-hour police protection for Audit Commissioner Heidi Mendoza who documented Makati hospital scams before the Senate blue ribbon committee. Medical equipment for Ospital ng Makati - from sterilizers to beds to cabinets - worth P9.3 million were padded by P61.2 million under Mayor Elenita Binay's watch, Mendoza revealed. That's a 9,056-percent overrun. There was a break-in at Mendoza's home this year, and she received threatening phone calls before the Senate hearings. The Commission on Audit official, nonetheless, testified that beds claimed to be manufactured in the United States were Taiwanese imports. No public biddings were conducted. And so on. A parallel controversy erupted over the weekend, when Makati Mayor Junjun Binay slammed Senate President Franklin Drilon for indicating he'll sign a subpoena to compel Binay to testify on the overpriced P2.3-billion Makati City Hall parking building. If a witness refused, “the entire committee can decide if a witness can be detained” until he sings. Drilon stressed he “merely explained Senate procedures.” Binay protested, presenting a “reasonable appeal” to the committee to desist. “The Ombudsman now has jurisdiction over the related plunder case.” And Sen. Nancy Binay weighed in: Sen. Teofisto Guingona III should convene the committee to address the jurisdictional issue. Will this replay the July 1950 investigation of the purchase of Buenavista and Tambobong estates (GR No. L-3820)? Jean Arnault clammed up on demands that he finger the person to whom he slipped P1.44 million. Cited in contempt, Arnault was held by the Senate sergeant-atarms until he answered. Yes, the Senate had the power to punish Arnault for contempt, the Supreme Court decided. Yes, the Senate had the authority to commit him “for a term beyond its period of legislative session.” And no, Arnault may not rightfully invoke u Page 14 October 10-16, 2014 Page 11 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Hong Kong, the golden goose Beijing cannot sacrifice Agence France-Presse B E I J I N G - - H o n g Ko n g ' s democracy protests have stoked fears of retribution from China, but observers say the city is simply too valuable to punish and sideline, even as it faces a long-term challenge from mainland rival Shanghai. Demonstrators, sometimes numbering in the tens of thousands, have taken to Hong Kong's streets over the past week to demand free elections for the city's leader in 2017, a display of civil disobedience initially met with tear gas from riot police and later attacks by unidentified men. Large-scale disruption has triggered fears in the semiautonomous city that Beijing which does not tolerate any challenge to its rule - may seek to penalize it for the show of popular Making life worth living Ellen Tordesillas The incident involving car model Alyzza Agustin and Police Chief Superintendent Alexander I g n a c i o i s o n e exa m p l e o f something good coming out of a stupid act. God works in mysterious ways indeed. Last Sept. 28, Agustin, who apparently enjoys social media but does not comprehend it's power and perils proudly posted in her Facebook and Instagram accounts that she was able to get away violating the number coding traffic scheme in Metro Manila by using a calling card Ignacio gave her. She bragged: “Nahuli na naman ako dahil coding but because of you Boss Alex wala ng huli-huli. Thank intransigence. The greatest threat could be for the leadership to sideline the freewheeling former British colony in favor of China's emerging financial center Shanghai, where authorities established a much-vaunted free trade zone (FTZ) a year ago. “Because Hong Kong is now standing up to China, it is seen as an unreliable partner,” said Francis Lun, a financial analyst and CEO of Hong Kong-based Geo Securities. “This will escalate (the trend) that Shanghai will one day replace Hong Kong as the financial capital of China. “If the tide changes, there is no going back,” Lun added. “It could happen. It could happen very fast.” But experts maintain that Hong Kong is not at risk of being marginalized in the short-term. That would be self-defeating for Beijing, which continually stresses that the city is part of China, and itself uses it as a key economic conduit. Ta k i n g m e a s u r e s t o economically punish Hong Kong would just “harden views” in the territory, noted Julian EvansPritchard, China economist at Capital Economics. “Obviously, they're not happy about what's happening in the protests, but they're still trying to model a lot of the (financial) reforms on the mainland on Hong Kong,” Evans-Pritchard said. “So, I don't think they want to set Hong Kong back. It would be silly to have a tit-for-tat.” 'I will use you' Hong Kong was returned to China in 1997 and has its own government and legal system, with its residents enjoying rights and freedoms unknown on the Chinese mainland. Nonetheless the protests are fuelled by soaring inequality and living costs as well as anger over the cozy relationship between the city government and its financial elite, contributing to a sense of disenchantment among the younger generation. Hong Kong - known for its open approach to business - was ranked the world's freest economy this year for the 20th consecutive year, according to the Index of Economic Freedom, published annually by the Heritage Foundation and the Wall Street Journal. Mainland China, by contrast, ranked 137th. Analysts cite Hong Kong's “transparent and fair” legal system as a keystone of the bridge it forms between China and the global financial community. The city is also a major destination for mainland Chinese investors, with nearly 60 percent of Chinese outbound investment either directed to or channeled through it by the end of 2012, according to China's Ministry of Commerce. Beijing is moving slowly to open up its capital markets and promote the yuan as an international currency. But at the same time it is looking to maintain its control over key economic levers and foreign firms have lamented the sluggish pace of promised reforms in the Shanghai FTZ. “Obviously there's a clear preference for China to develop Shanghai,” said ANZ senior economist Raymond Yeung. “But that doesn't mean they've already abandoned Hong Kong.” The pro-democracy Occupy Central campaign was first u Page 12 When stupidity resulted in something good you so much sa napaka-useful mong card with matching dedication pa.” She even posted the calling card of Ignacio and with a signed note at the back which said: “Please assist my EA, Alyzza Agustin.” EA is understood to be Executive Assistant. Of course the traffic policeman let Ignacio's EA get away with the violation which ordinary motorists who are not the EA of any government official would not have escaped without paying a fine and undergo so many hassles. It was a good thing Agustin didn't realize the perils of social m e d i a ( Fa c e b o o k , Tw i t t e r, Instagram): that there's nothing private once posted. There's no such thing as limiting your message to your friends because u Page 12 Noynoy goes solo Everyone knows about fairweather friends. Now President Noynoy Aquino is learning the hard way about fair-weather political allies (and even subordinates) in his singleminded defense of his beloved, beleaguered national police chief. Let's start with the most prominent missing person these days, who is, ironically, the official most often accused of political “epal,” that not-so-endearing trait that makes politicians jostle to always be in the middle of things, whether it's the headline news or just a town fiesta. Yes, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas has seemingly taken a vow of silence just when he should be front and center because his job requires it. By rights, Roxas should be leading the effort to look into a l l e ga t i o n s t h a t h i s l i n e a l subordinate, Director General Alan Purisima, enriched himself by securing huge discounts on land, houses and SUVs. But after saying in the beginning of the controversy that he would order a lifestyle check on the national police chief, nothing more has been heard from Roxas. And Roxas has never shied away from free publicity before, whether that required tipping off the media that he would be cursing at a protest rally or issuing p h o t o re l e a s e s o f h i m s e l f awkwardly driving a pedicab, hoisting a sack or rice on his shoulder or even hammering a nail into a wooden school desk. But on the issue of Purisima, Roxas has gone both mute and invisible, forcing Malacañang Palace to keep regurgitating the line that Aquino continues to trust the police chief and will not even investigate him. Roxas can argue that since Aquino has taken over Purisima's case, he can no longer insinuate himself into it like some unwanted photobomber. But that is a disingenuous defense because Roxas, if he really wanted to stop Aquino from looking like a fool protecting Purisima, should actually take the lead in exonerating the police chief as DILG secretary. As it is, Roxas has joined the legions of supposed staunch political allies of Aquino in keeping a studied silence about the embattled police chief, leaving the defense of Purisima to the President and his mealy-mouthed spokesmen. And it's clear that no one among the President's allies in the Executive or in Congress wants to join Aquino in defending his longtime security aide, apparently because they are afraid to be tarred by the same corrupt brush that was used to paint Purisima. But the silence of Roxas, who is both the general's immediate boss and Aquino's supposed most trusted ally and defender in the Cabinet, is the most traitorous of all. And Aquino, if he has not totally lost his mind in his defense of Purisima, must have noticed that he is going it alone in defending the corruption-tainted general who used to protect him. No Cabinet member, senator, congressman or even Liberal Party leader wants to have anything to do with Purisima something that speaks volumes not only about the guilt of the general but also of the fickle loyalty of Aquino's supposed allies. And Roxas, the man who seeks nothing but Aquino's anointing and support “to continue the reforms” after 2016, will not even touch the general with the proverbial 10-foot pole, for fear of smearing himself with the nasty stuff that's been covering both Purisima and Aquino. *** One of the latest strategies being considered by government revenue planners and antitobacco advocates is the setting of minimum retail prices for cigarettes. The theory behind setting minimum prices looks good on paper, because it will supposedly raise government u Page 12 October 10-16, 2014 Page 12 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Noynoy goes solo ... From page 11 revenue and reduce cigarette consumption. In practice, it gets a bit more complicated than that. The setting of minimum prices for tobacco products has only been proven, in countries whereit has been tried, to encourage smuggling while not affecting t h e vo l u m e o f c i g a r e t t e consumption. Minimum selling prices will only aid tax evaders, who will merely continue selling smuggled cigarettes at very low prices, leaving tax-compliant manufacturers to abide with mandated minimum prices. Hong Kong, the golden goose ... From page 11 announced last year but officials still pushed ahead with plans for a cross-trading scheme between Hong Kong and Shanghai's stock markets, he pointed out. “It's too simplistic to think that 'You're naughty, and I don't want to take care of you any more'. The leaders of China today are very pragmatic: 'So long as you can deliver, then I will use you.'” Overall consumption will also not diminish but government r e ve n u e s w i l l s u f f e r a s consumption shifts to illicit products. In 2010, the European Union banned the setting of minimum prices for cigarettes in Austria, Ireland, and France because the scheme undermined the freedom of manufacturers and importers to determine the selling prices of their products and, c o r r e s p o n d i n g l y, f r e e competition. The EU stated that for the protection of public health, higher price levels may be adequately attained by increased taxation, with the increases reflected in an increase in the retail selling price. Malaysia also set minimum prices for cigarettes in 2010, but witnessed a surge in the entry and sale of smuggled cigarettes selling below the legal prices. Surveys indicated that illegal cigarettes have cornered almost 40 percent of the entire market, denying the government billions in lost tax revenue. The real issue here is stopping tax evasion and not requiring all cigarette manufacturers to pay the proper taxes, not setting artificial minimum prices that only encourage smuggle and lose revenue for government. The challenge is fighting smuggling and collecting the right taxes, which cannot be remedied by employing some fake magic bullet. Narrowing gap Yet while Hong Kong need not worry about being eclipsed by its mainland rival in the short-term, the dynamic could shift as the territory's full return to Chinese control in 2047 nears. At that point, Hong Kong will probably still retain some of its “inherent advantages” such as the widespread use of English, Evans-Pritchard said, but may stand to lose others, such as its independent legal system. “I could see a scenario in the very long run - after it returns to China in 2047, if basically it loses its special status - then at that stage you wonder,” he said. “I do think Shanghai will become increasingly important and it could overtake Hong Kong, at least as a domestic financial center.” For his part Yeung felt Shanghai was unlikely to displace Hong Kong, but added: “Obviously a convergence will be coming, because China is catching up, Shanghai is catching up. “ S o t h e ga p b e t we e n Shanghai and Hong Kong will narrow; this is undoubtedly true.” Inquirer.net When stupidity results ... From page 11 the friends of your friends can share what they find interesting, intriguing, infuriating. That's what happened to Agustin's post. Several netizens reacted to it because it showed misuse of authority on the part of Santiago. President Aquino's “no wangwang” policy was most applauded because it was supposed to put government officials into their proper role as public servants. A government position is not supposed to be a position of privilege to be used to put officials above the long- suffering ordinary citizens. The number coding scheme was devised to ease traffic in Metro Manila which is a daily curse to commuters and motorists. Giving one an exemption for a flimsy reason that she is a friend of an official makes a mockery of the regulation and rubs salt to the suffering of the commuters and motorists. That's why Agustin's post drew collective ire. Ignacio now denies that Agustin was his EA. So what was she? Someone must have told Agustin what a stupid thing she did because she What to do ... From page 10 concurrently with the appeal. However, it may also be submitted after the appeal is filed. The applicant or petitioner is not required to submit a brief; however, he must provide an explanation as to why he believes the original decision was made in error. If the applicant or petitioner opts not to file a brief, failure to submit at least an explanation as to why the decision was made in error may result in the denial of the appeal. When the applicant or petitioner files a motion to reconsider or reopen, he is requesting the adjudicating officer who originally made the decision to review it. A motion to reopen must be based on factual grounds such as the discovery of new evidence or changed circumstances and must be supported by affidavits and other documentary evidence. A motion to reconsider on the other hand must establish that the decision was incorrect based on an later deleted those posts. Too late. In social media, once posted, it's spread (goes viral) and it cannot be recalled. Not even her apology could undo what she did: “I would like to apologize to everyone who was affected and offended by my post: fellow motorists, Director Alexander C. Ignacio and his family, and the PNP institution as a whole. I was just overwhelmed by that moment because I was caught in traffic for hours coming from work. I would like to make it a point that I do not know Director Alexander C. Ignacio personally. I mean no harm to anyone, and just like any Filipino motorist , I would like a little convenience on the road. Naniniwala po ako na ang bawat isa sa atin ay may pagkukulang din naman sa daan. Pasensya na po sa aking pagkakamali.” Ignacio declared that he is “not a womanizer” and complained that his family “including my ailing mother, is badly affected by this scandal.” Upon arriving from Malaysia, where he attended an ASEAN Police Conference, he requested “for private moments “with his family. He also said he is consulting with his lawyers about filing of charges against Agustin for “moral damages caused by the calling card scandal.” It's so funny. Hooray for social media! incorrect application of law and must be supported by pertinent precedent decisions. Most motions are filed on Form I290B, Notice of Appeal or Motion, generally, within 30 days from the date of the decision. Although a brief is not required, it may be filed with the motion. If not filed, the applicant or petitioner must provide a sufficient explanation as to why he believes the decision was made in error. The USCIS tries to adjudicate motions within 90 days from receipt. If the motion is denied or dismissed, it may be appealed to the AAO. Although it may take longer, the AAO attempts to resolve appeals within six months from receipt. In some cases, the USCIS can waive the fee for filing an appeal or motion as long as the fee for the underlying petition or application can also be waived. (Editor's Note: REUBEN S. SEGURITAN has been practicing law for over 30 years. For more information, you may log on to his website at www.seguritan.com or call (212) 695-5281.) High cruelty From page 10 animals. In 2012, PAWS executive director Anna Cabrera testified before lawmakers that in that year alone, her group had recorded more than 100 cases of animal abuse. “Society's treatment of animals is inseparable from its treatment of human beings,” she said. In 2013, PAWS and animal-welfare advocates got what they had worked for. Congress passed RA 10631, an amendment of the 15-year-old Animal Welfare Act. Now, violators face a fine of up to P250,000 and a three-year prison term. The amendment singled out those who would be liable for the maximum penalties: “1) a syndicate; 2) an offender who makes business out of cruelty to an animal; 3) a public officer or employee; or 4) where at least three animals are involved.” This development is significant in this country where too many horrendous acts against animals are carried out for profit and perverse enjoyment. Similarly, the conviction of the Ridon couple in La Union stands as a clear example that animal welfare laws can be enforced with a persevering citizenry and enlightened courts. We hope for more encouraging news by the time the next World Animal Day comes around. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 13 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Russian Official Reveals China and Russia's Delicate Relations Source: NTD.TV On August 27, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said that there is no need to worry about the Chinese C o m m u n i s t Pa r t y ( C C P ) ' s territorial claims against Russia. Lavrov's remarks caused reverberations in public opinion after broadcasted via Russian state television. Commentators say it reveals the delicate relationship between China and Russia. “No need to worry about the CCP's territorial claims against Russia.” This is what Lavrov said on Aug. 27 during an informal meeting with participants of the “All-Russian Youth Forum” held in Russia's Tver region. The BBC's C h i n e s e l a n g u a g e we b s i te reported that Russia's state news channel broadcasted Lavrov's speech. O ve r s e a s m e d i a w i d e ly reported Lavrov's remarks. On the same day, BBC quoted an article by Roger Boyes of British newspaper, The Times, saying that the CCP needs Russia more than ever and that a series of factors show that the two sides are re-adjusting their strategic positioning. Why does the CCP take Putin seriously? The article said Putin will seek re-election to stay up to 2018, while Xi Jinping's tenure goes to 2022, very close to 2034. According to prediction of a Russian scholar of China affairs, World War III between the U.S. and China will happen in 2034. The scholar also analyzed that the CCP has to maintain double-digit growth in military spending for 20 consecutive years to keep up with U.S. and Japan in East Asia. In addition, the CCP needs to get three things done: First, to reduce dependence on Western markets; Second, to ensure smooth channels of raw materials over land; Third, to find good strong allies and reinforce relationships. Commentator Wu Fan says the CCP faces enemies to the East, West and South. If confrontation happens between China, Japan, and the U.S., the CCP has no help. Wu Fan: “Will the Russians help China to fight the U.S.? No, they want China defeated in a battle with the U.S. Then Russia wouldn't have a strong threat in the south. This is what they need, so they will not help.” Wu says the CCP does not want another enemy in the North. So for the CCP, it is not the time to raise the issue of territory. Wu Fan: “Are there any activities between China and Russia? Yes, there are economic relations and trade relations, as well as financial business. But they will not form a coalition. So in this situation, Lavrov said how can you ask for territory from Russia while dealing with the U.S. and Japan? Won't that add more enemies?” Russian President Vladimir Putin visited China in May. China and Russia signed an Economic and Trade Agreement, and also conducted joint military exercises. The outside world regarded this as a sign of alliance. However, Western countries indicated that there are conflicts between China and Russia in terms of territory. Lavrov's remarks are considered to be a confirmation of this to the outside world. Lan Shu, commentator: “Russia's Foreign Minister words have confirmed Russia has an understanding with Beijing. Xi Jinping of China and Vladimir Putin of Russia Beijing's high-levels will not continue to make a fuss on this.” However, Boyes says in his article that with the CCP anxious, Russia plays the role of an increasingly intimate partner. But Putin is the opposite of the former soviet leader. Boyes says Russia wants to win over the CCP and build a close Russian-Chinese relationship, and the West must convince Beijing not to follow Putin's will. Boyes emphasized that if Xi Jinping signed any treaty with Putin, he will eventually find himself suffering for it. Financial services corporation Morgan Stanley reported in April 2014 that the Russian economy is close to a recession. On August 26, RIANovosti News Agency reported that The Russian Ministry of Economic Development Bureau of Macroeconomic Analysis leader Oleg Zasov also said that a n e c o n o m i c re c e s s i o n i s approaching. October 10-16, 2014 Page 14 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Asian American voters plan to turn out in November and don't affiliate with a political party Political candidates should court Asian American voters, survey indicates WASHINGTON, DC – New polling released today by Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC and Asian Pacific Islander American Vote (APIAVote) shows that at least 60 percent, and up to as many as 77 percent, of Asian American registered voters are planning to vote in the 2014 Midterms. In addition, 46 percent do not affiliate with a political party, compared to 37 percent that are Democrat and 17 percent that are Republican. See our infographic for summary of findings. These results, coupled with the fact that Asian Americans are rapidly growing in population in the Southand Midwest, indicate that this community will be a sought-after political power force in years to come. “Asian Americans should no longer be an afterthought in our political process,” said Mee Moua, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC. “It is clear that Asian Americans will have a say in shaping future elections and the future direction of our country. Candidates from both sides of the aisle should be making inroads with this community, and yet, most Asian Americans have yetto-be contacted by either political party. The polling results found that 66 percent of Asian Americans haven't heard from Democrats and 74 percent have not heard from Republicans.” In more than 60 House races across the country in congressional districts in Georgia, New York, Illinois, Minnesota, Maryland, California and Hawaii Asian Americans make up eight percent or more of the voting-age population, large enough to close the gap in some of these races. To counter challenges to voting such as discriminatory voting laws and practices, language barriers, lack of access to voter resources and unfamiliarity with the voting process and political candidates, the Asian American community is building civic and political infrastructures across the country. This includes on-the-ground organizing in states like Nevada and Virginia, where in close House races, Asian Americans make up 10 percent more of the citizen voting age population. “This growing base of Asian American voters remain mostly undecided,” said Christine Chen, executive director of APIAVote. “Many are disengaged from politics because the parties and candidates are not directly addressing them. As many as 64 percent of those surveyed believe politicians don't care much about what they think. APIAVote and partners have launched grassroots efforts engaging 200,000 households with direct voter contact and we encourage the campaigns to do the same. Our polling indicates what they should already know - these votes are up for grabs.” The survey was conducted by AAPI Data and polled 1,300 Asian American registered voters nationwide in-language. Findings reflected voter attitudes on social issues as well as political leanings. “The Asian American electorate is growing rapidly and is already a significant presence in High-risk ... From page 10 h i s r i gh t a ga i n s t s e l f incrimination. The legal controversy uncoils in a setting where Vice President Jejomar Binay's standing among the 2016 potential presidential candidates plummeted from 41 to 31 percent in the latest Pulse Asia survey. Conducted from Sept. 8 to 15, the survey also tracked Interior Secretary Mar Roxas placing second with 13 percent. He is up from 7 percent in the previous survey. “We expected worse,” given the “smears,” a Binay spokesperson admits. Will the Binay free fall continue in the surveys ahead? The track is littered with the remains of 2010 “front runner” former senator Manuel Villar. Road diversion scandals dragged Villar to a losing third with 4,525,913 votes behind Benigno Aquino III's 12,688,024-vote victory. “The support that a legitimate whistle-blower, like auditors, should get remains unclear. An explicit policy… is needed,” says the Asian Institute of Management study “Whistleblowing in the Philippines: Awareness, Attitudes and Structures.” Whistle-blowers who tell the truth make c o r r u p t i o n a h i gh - r i s k activity, wrote Dr. Romulo Miral. The absence of a legal framework makes the personal costs of whistleblowing very high. It is many states and Congressional d i s t r i c t s ,” s a i d K a r t h i c k Ramakrishnan, director of AAPI Data and lead researcher on the survey. “In-language polling of Asian Americans is now getting to be critical, in order for us to have a more accurate picture of what voters care about, and how they will vote.” sometimes a “matter of life a n d d e a t h .” I n d e e d , Jerusalem crucified its Whistle-blower. I n m a ny i n s t a n c e s , whistle-blowers are key to solving cases. In 2013, the Inquirer picked whistleblower Benhur Luy, Mary Arlene Baltazar, Merlina Suñas, Gertrudes Luy, Marina Sula and Simonette Briones as “Filipinos of the Year.” They blew the lid off the country's biggest sleaze scandal. To d a y ' s W i t n e s s Protection Program is a hodgepodge assortment of personnel, Santiago fumed. Indeed, a separate law is needed to protect COA auditors who put their lives on the line. A n ex p e r t i n f ra u d examination, Mendoza was employed by the COA, recalls Ateneo's dean of Graduate School Antonio La Viña. In September 2004, then Ombudsman Simeon Marcelo handpicked Mendoza to lead a group to investigate Armed Forces of the Philippines comptroller Carlos Garcia. Mendoza and team proved sleaze in the handling of funds from the United Nations for peacekeeping missions. Yet, government prosecutors defended a plea bargain, saying: The case was “ d e f i c i e n t .” M e n d o z a resigned from an Asian Development Bank post to participate, from 2007 to 2009, in over 16 hearings where she documented her team's findings. “Most of the time, only her husband was there to give her moral support.” Garcia was convicted and imprisoned. But the strains on Mendoza and family were severe. Aside from the physical risk, there was unrelenting pressure to crumble. President Aquino thereafter handpicked Mendoza, along with Grace Pulido Tan, for the COA. Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, however, repeatedly blocked Mendoza's confirmation. He reserved “two questions,” then failed to show up for the h e a r i n g s . E s t ra d a a l s o torpedoed the confirmation of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima. Section 20 of the C o m m i s s i o n o n Appointments rules allows m e m b e r s to b l o c k t h e confirmation of any nominee during the plenary session. No need to give a reason. De Lima and Mendoza did not buckle and were finally confirmed in June 2014, along with Department of Social Welfare and Development's Dinky Soliman. Estrada today is detained on unbailable Ombudsman charges of p l u n d e r. H e w a s a l s o suspended from the Senate, by the Sandiganbayan, for 90 days. “I risked my life, my family and career simply because, I would like to tell my fellow Filipinos: Not all government employees are thieves,” Mendoza told an ABS-CBN interview. “Nor are all Filipinos afraid to speak out against corruption.” E-mail: juanlmercado@gmail.com October 10-16, 2014 Page 15 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS October is Filipino American History Month CAPAC Members Celebrate Filipino American History Month Washington, DC -- In recognition of Filipino American History Month, which began October 1st and lasts throughout the month of October, Members of the C o n g re s s i o n a l A s i a n Pa c i f i c American Caucus (CAPAC) released the following statements: Congresswoman Judy Chu (CA27), CAPAC Chair: “With a rich history of over 400 years in the United States, Filipino A m e r i c a n s h ave m a d e v i t a l economic, cultural, and social contributions to our society. They are the educators, health care providers, military service men and women, entrepreneurs, civic leaders, and hardworking Americans that have shaped the growth of our great nation. October is an important time for us to learn more about the Filipino American community, their roots and success, and their place in America's diverse history and vibrant future. It is also an important time to come together and urge our government to grant Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for the Philippines in wake of the devastation of Typhoon Haiyan, which struck the Philippines last y e a r. A s w e c e l e b r a t e t h e contributions of Filipino Americans, I will continue to fight for TPS so that affected individuals are granted the relief that they deserve.” Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard (HI-02): “In Hawai'i, Filipino Americans have made tremendous c o n t r i b u t i o n s to o u r i s l a n d communities. As one of the largest ethnic groups in my home state, they represent a storied history beginning with the first sakadas who came to Hawai'i looking for work on our sugar plantations and in the pineapple fields. Today they are leaders in business, public service, and in our Armed Forces. As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, we honor and recognize the positive impacts the Filipino community has had in Hawai'i and across the United States.” Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-06): “I'm proud to join the Filipino American community in New York and across America in celebrating Filipino American History Month. This month, we not only celebrate the accomplishments and achievements of Filipino Americans, but we commemorate the outstanding culture and Heritage of the entire Filipino American community. Americans of Filipino descent contribute so much to our nation, and continue to make many positive impacts on our society. I'm privileged to honor the culture and traditions of all Filipino Americans during this important, month-long celebration.” Congressman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03): “As we celebrate Filipino American History Month, we reflect on the profound impact that both the country of the Philippines and Filipino Americans here in the United States have had on the fabric of our society. There are over 3 million Americans of Filipino ancestry in the United States today, and I am proud to say that I am one of them. Filipino Americans have contributed to American life and culture in countless ways. Roughly 250,000 Filipino soldiers and guerrilla fighters served under or alongside United States armed forces during World War II, and Filipino Americans across the country are leaders in their fields. From science to the arts, there are many Filipino Americans across the country serving as leaders in their communities. This month gives us the opportunity to promote Filipino culture, celebrate our extraordinary diversity as a country, and provide us a time to consider the numerous contributions that Filipino Americans have made to our country.” American History Month and the countless contributions Filipino Americans have made to our society in the East Bay and across the country. When Typhoon Haiyan struck the Philippines just last year, I was particularly moved by the incredible response by the Filipino American community to help the country recover from that terrible storm. I was honored to do my part in the effort to encourage Americans to donate to the relief effort by sponsoring the Philippines Charitable Giving Assistance Act, which was signed into law by the President.” Congresswoman Susan Davis (CA-53): “America has not only benefited culturally and economically from the contributions of Filipino Americans, but they have always been willing to join the fight to protect our freedoms. As we honor the contributions of Filipino Americans this month, let's also honor the sacrifice that Filipino veterans have made on our behalf by ensuring they get the full veterans benefits they have earned.” About CAPAC The Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) is comprised of Members of Congress of Asian and Pacific Islander descent and Members who have a strong dedication to promoting the well-being of the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community. Currently chaired by Congresswoman Judy Chu, CAPAC has been addressing the needs of the AAPI community in all areas of American life since it was founded in 1994. Congressman Eric Swalwell (CA15): “I join in celebrating Filipino The foregoing article sent by Ben Suarato Opening Night of Philippine Exhibit Filipino American History Month of New Jersey Municipal Hall, City of Jersey City October 3, 2014 Council President Rolando Lavarro, the first Filipino American elected to the Municipal Council of the City of Jersey City, greets the attendees at the opening of the Philippine Exhibit. Also in photo is Pam Andes, Council Secretary. Photos from Amira Allahh photo album October 10-16, 2014 Page 16 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS October 10-16, 2014 Page 17 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS First time in Manila - Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera masterpieces on display at Ayala Museum By Feliciano Rodriguez III Mexico: Fantastic Identity, 20th Century Masterpieces,” an exhibition of artworks by renowned Latin American artists such as Diego Rivera, José Clemente Orozco and David Alfaro Siqueiros, is now on display at Ayala Museum. The show opened Sept. 30 and will run until Nov. 9. Get a chance to see an actual work by famous artists like Frida Kahlo and Antonio Ruiz. Coming face to face with Kahlo's “My Dress Hangs There,” knowing how the famous artist labored on that piece when she was in America, while not wanting to be there and missing her native Mexico, is a rare treat. It is the only collage in her entire oeuvre, and misses the usual subject and focal point of most of her paintings. 60 pieces The exhibit features 60 pieces by Mexican artists, all brought in for the first time to the Philippines to inspire Filipino artists, students and art-lovers with the best of Latin American art and culture. The Femsa Collection is considered one of the most important and extensive collections of Latin American artworks in the world. It includes more than 1,200 p i e c e s o f d i f fe re n t d i s c i p l i n e s o f artpainting, sculpture, drawing, photography and audio-video. Femsa has organized more than 100 exhibitions all over the world. From cities in Mexico, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Columbia, Puerto Rico, Spain, the US, to the Philippines, more than six million visitors have seen the exhibit. Femsa, a leading Mexican beverage company behind Coca-Cola Femsa, is the largest franchise-holder of Coca-Cola products in the world. Recently acquiring 51 percent of Coco-Cola B ot t lers Philippines, Inc., it has become one of the leading foreign investors in the country. “We are honored to bring the Femsa Collection to the Philippines for the first time, allowing us to further our goal of promoting education by encouraging appreciation for culture and the arts,” said Juan Ramón Felix, chief operating officer, Coca-Cola Femsa Asia Division. “The Femsa Collection traveling exhibitions program has made it possible for us to share our artistic heritage with diverse communities, and we couldn't be more grateful to Ayala Museum for opening its doors to us and letting us share with the Filipino community a little piece of Mexican art.” “My Dress Hangs There,” by Frida Kahlo, 1933 Stronger bond The exhibit highlights the closeness of Filipino and Mexican culture and heritage, the Philippines having been under Mexico's direct viceroyalty for 250 of the 300 years of Spanish rule. Femsa's role as a bridge both in commerce and in culture for Mexico and the Philippines is strengthened through this exhibition. “The influence of Mexican art in shaping the visual vocabulary of Filipino artists in the 20th century cannot be denied,” said u Page 28 THE FEMSA exhibit features 60 pieces by Mexican artists. LATIN American art and culture on display. October 10-16, 2014 Page 18 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Feast of San Lorenzo Ruiz Vatican Cardinal offers mass AT THE GALA. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, extreme right, greets the Filipino community. Also in photo, from left: Hermana Mayores and Chair of the gala Dr. Dolly Rivera, Archbishop Bernardito Cleopas Auza, and Vicky Baxa. Dr. Francia Devera opens the gala with a wonderful and truly masterful rendition of the song Sampaguita. NEW YORK CITY -- More than 500 Filipino Americans gathered at St. Patrick's Cathedral last September 28 in honor of San Lorenzo Ruiz, the first Filipino canonized saint. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican Secretary of State, served as the principal celebrant , and homilist at the Mass. The annual San Lorenzo Ruiz feast was organized by Fr. Joseph Marabe, Moderator of San Lorenzo Ruiz Chapel and D i re c to r o f t h e F i l i p i n o Apostolate Archdiocese of New York. In his homily, Cardinal Parolin stated “To live our faith is a call to order. Today we may not be asked to be martyrs but, nonetheless, our faith asks us to comply with our commitments and responsibilities.” Also at the Mass was Archbishop Bernardito Cleopas Auza, Permanent Observer of the Holy See to the United Nations. Eleven Hermanos and Hermanas were presented to the congregation and Cardinal Parolin acknowledged their contribution to their respective parishes. After the Mass, a gala reception was held at The Plaza Hotel along Madison Avenue. Fr. Joseph Marabe welcomes the guests, sponsors and volunteers to the 5th Sampaguita Dinner Gala. Hermanos and Hermanas pose with some of the guests. FFAI Kids delight the crowd with a Tinikling dance performance. Photos by Arnold Castillo, Joel Flores and Sonny Austria October 19 Typhoon Haiyan Benefit Concert World-renowned Filipina opera singer is special guest Evelyn Mandac, world-renowned Filipina opera singer, will be the special guest at a Typhoon Haiyan Benefit Concert on October 19, 2014 at 6 p.m. at the New Providence High School Auditorium (35 Pioneer Drive, New Providence, NJ). She has performed with Placido Domingo at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City. The event sponsor, the New Providence Diversity Council, will be directing proceeds from the concert via YouCaring directly to Habitat for Humanity who is actively working to rebuild the Philippines. Super Typhoon Haiyan was one of the most powerful storms ever to make landfall. A year later, many people still need help. Like Shylyny Therese Negru, a 16-year-old from the Philippines, who has learned to fend for herself and her three younger brothers after Typhoon Haiyan wiped away her neighborhood. The storm had taken away her parents and one of her brothers, leaving the children alone. “It doesn't matter if we lose everything, as long as we can have our parents here.” It is not just Shylyny, however, but many more just like her who have lost everything. The mass devastation of Typhoon Haiyan had shaken the lives of an entire nation; lives that have not been restored to this day. Houses are gone, food supply is low, yet there is still hope. This is how it has been for a year now. Rebuilding efforts must continue on a long term basis in order to restore homes, schools, and hospitals back to normalcy. “I hear too many people talk about six months or 12 months. This is not the scale we are looking at. We are looking at three to five years or more.” As this survivor has said, it will take many years to recover from such a large-scale disaster. Please join this worthwhile event. Evelyn Mandac is a Filipino national treasure who performed at Metropolitan Opera House in a several lead roles. An amazing group of talented young musicians, many of whom are current and past members of the New Jersey Youth Symphony and New York Youth Symphony, are volunteering their time and talent for this cause and would love to have your support. They are seasoned performers who have had many appearances at Carnegie Hall and other prestigious recital halls. The New Jersey Intergenerational Orchestra chamber group will be performing well-loved classical repertoire everyone can all hum along to. Filipino music, as well as classical and Broadway tunes will be presented. Skip the $40 Carnegie Hall entrance fee, and instead come with a donation and enjoy a wonderful evening of exceptional music. Donate to our YouCaring fundraiser http://www.youcaring.com/nonprofits/typh o o n - h a i y a n - b e n e f i t /243855#.VDFNfSaJsLQ.facebook. Like us on F a c e b o o k : https://www.facebook.com/diversityfortyph oonhaiyan. Contact person: Elenita Silverstein diversityforgood@gmail.com John Alexander (Rodolfo) and Evelyn Mandac (Mimì) in Puccini's La bohème, 1971 © Des Gates. Inset photo: The lovely Evelyn Mandac in a cool and casual pose. October 10-16, 2014 Page 19 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Two prestigious Fil-Am Educators to be bestowed with Dangal ng Lahi Award AFTA: Reflecting on twenty-five years of Service at a gala on October 12 The Association of Fil-Am Teachers of America (AFTA) is throwing a party to mark a milestone in its storied twenty-five years. AFTA's Silver Anniversary Gala will be held on Sunday, October 12, at 12 Noon to 5 o'clock P. M. at the Astoria World Manor in Q u e e n s , N e w Yo r k . T h e celebration's theme, “Reflecting and Celebrating the Struggles and Successes of the Filipino Teachers in America” encapsulates all that the association stands for. There will be tributes to teacher achievements, grateful acknowledgement of its supporters, and the renewed determination of the group to make a difference. During the Silver Jubilee fete, AFTA will present before the many guests the Founding Members, teachers in New York and New Jersey schools, who in 1989, banded to find a solution to their immigration problem. Lobbying some members of the US Congress to get support for a bill that was crucial to their visa extension, the group had their initial success when Immigration Act of 1990 was passed. The Trailblazers, the first group of teachers that was hired by an agency to teach in New York in 1986, will be introduced. The past presidents of the association whose leadership contributed to its success will also be acknowledged during the event. Not to be missed are AFTA's DOÑA TEODORA ALONZO awardees who continue to provide encouragement and financial and moral support to the association for many years. Active teachers will be honored with a CRYSTAL APPLE SERVICE award for their hard work and dedication to the profession. To receive the TANGLAW award are the teacher-retirees whose fine teaching skills and competence had paved the way for the hiring of more Filipino teachers in 2003 to 2005 to teach in the New York city public schools. The highlight of the event, however, is the DANGAL NG LAHI Award, AFTA's highest award for educators and education leadership. This honor will be bestowed on two Filipino academics who have broken the p rove r b i a l g l a s s c e i l i n g i n American education: Dr. A. Gabriel Esteban, president of Seton Hall University in New Jersey and Dr. Conrado Gempesaw, president of St. John's University in Queens, New York. Their achievement is truly a pride of the Filipino nation and people. Consul General Mario de Leon, Jr., with assistance from Dr. Raul Cajigas, AFTA president, will present the award. AFTA teachers cannot only teach. They can dance as well. Some AFTA members and friends will show two Philippine folk dances, the Habanera Botolena and Rigodon de Honor. (Want to catch A. Gabriel Esteban, Ph.D. Conrado Gempesaw, Ph.D. President, Seton Hall University South Orange, New Jersey President, St. John's University Queens, New York some two left feet? Watch them closely. There will be a few for sure!) More interestingly, selected members and friends will perform Kuratsa, a courtship dance that is very unique to the province of Samar. Favored by many Visayans, Kuratsa is traditionally performed during special occasions and the audience pin money on the dancers for good luck. And for a few lucky attendees? A surprise of mini sunset/brunch Manhattan cruises, courtesy of Advance Planners, awaits four members of the audience during an on-the-spot raffle. Additionally, a grand, 7-day cruise to be donated by CruisePlanners and partners will be raffled off at a later time. Interested guests may fill out a form and drop it into a box at the registration table. So come one, come all! Put those dancing shoes on and let's have a paarrrtyyy! (Tickets cost $80 and the requested attire is Filipiniana or Formal. For additional information or for tickets, please call: Raul 347932-6631; Lilia 914-346-8520; Pennie 646-541-2587; Milyn 917495-0706; Rena 347-223-6826; Chit 347-355-4667. myStorya v2 is first-ever EnglishFilipino-Cebuano storybook app in Apple App Stores myStorya v2 shown on ipad Te c h n o l o g y a n d m o b i l e content leader Apple has approved the storybook app myStorya v2 to be sold in its app stores worldwide. Produced by Silicon Valley-based EggCrate Ideas, myStorya is the first and only storybook app of its kind in the world, having both written text and audio narration in English, Filipino, and Cebuano. The app will be available starting on October 11, 2014. myStorya v2 features two books written for pre- and youngreaders ages 4 to 8 years old. It also includes a word-matching game where readers can match the correct word in Filipino and Cebuano to its English equivalent. Two new touch puzzles are also part of the new version. myStorya is envisioned to be a learning tool which children of Filipino descent can have access to, wherever they may be. OFWs in the Middle East, immigrants in the U.S.A., or a family transplanted to Europe will find it difficult to find children's storybooks written in Filipino in their local libraries or bookstores. But with myStorya v2 readily available in Apple app stores, they will now have access to storybooks that have English, Filipino, and Cebuano versions quickly and conveniently, right from their mobile devices. This eliminates the need to scour for them online or have them sent from the Philippines and pay high shipping costs. The new version of myStorya has more interactivity, notes EggCrate Ideas Founder and General Manager Mark Gatela. “We made improvements on this version based on the feedback we got from the children and parents of our beta test group when we launched the first version of the app in September last year.” Gatela explains. The audio narration is another feature that sets myStorya v2 apart from the others that are available out there, according to Gatela. “The ability to expose readers to the sound and cadence of the languages gives this app an advantage over text-only printed and digital storybooks”, he points out. “In August this year, our team showed a preview of myStorya v2 at a live Story Time session with a ro u n d t we n t y c h i l d re n i n Northern California, and it was very well-received. The participating children responded positively to the stories, and our team observed kids as young as four years old pick up words in Filipino and/or Cebuano very quickly just from reading or hearing the stories,” Gatela adds. Gatela emphasizes that the goal of the app is not to replace parents reading to their children. Instead, it is the company's intent and hope that the app will be used to supplement other educational tools that parents already use, with an app that encourages discussion and sharing of ideas and even stories from the parents' own experiences and childhood. Another potential use for the storybook app is to provide Philippine educators with supplemental materials that they can use in the new Mother-TongueBased Multi-Lingual Education (MTB-MLE) curriculum. This is especially true for K 3rd Grade, which corresponds with myStorya's primary audience. “The app could also be useful to anyone who has an interest in Filipino culture and languages, such as travelers visiting the Philippines or foreign-born students who are studying in the Philippines and who want to learn or brush up on basic words”, Gatela explains. The storybook titled “The Girl Who Wanted to Swim in the Sea” was in the first version of the app. This storybook introduces young children to the idea that dreams and wishes can come true, even though sometimes one has to overcome hurdles and work hard to fulfill them. It originally had English and Filipino text and narration only. The Cebuano version, added retroactively in version 2, is narrated by talented Cebuano entrepreneur Iris Castillo Cular. The English and Filipino versions are narrated by veteran voice talent Mau Suguitan. “The Boy Who Wanted to Catch a Dragonfly” is a fun and whimsical adventure that is set in the lush countryside near the towering Mount Apo in Mindanao, and introduces readers to some of the amazing animals found in that area. The English and Filipino versions of this book are narrated by popular Philippine advertising professional Joseph Benjamin Tapia who has voiced major TV and radio commercials, while the Cebuano version is narrated by local radio talent Gaspar Awid. Both stories were written by seasoned writer and editor Petite Gaces Gatela, and illustrated by Cebu International School Art and IT teacher for Elementary and U.P. Cebu Humanities Department Instructor Jessie Saclo III. The Filipino translations were edited by marketing and events executive and Ateneo de Manila alumna May Frances Baluyot Gilbert, while the Cebuano translations were edited by Cebuano editor and U.P. Cebu College Professor Januar Yap. Davao-based journalist and Edge Davao Associate Editor Jon Joaquin was the story consultant for “The Boy Who Wanted to Catch a Dragonfly”. Founder Mark Gatela earned his undergraduate degree from the Ateneo de Manila University and his Master's Degree in Information Systems from the University of San Francisco. He was part of the team that created ABS-CBN's "Game Ka Na Ba!" game-show SMS app. He also spearheaded a team that provided content for the different telecommunications companies in the Philippines back in the early 2000s. myStorya v2 will be available for download on all Apple iOs devices (iPhones, iPads) at $3.99. Development is ongoing to make this version available for Android and Amazon devices later this year. With the launch of version 2, EggCrate Ideas is making the original version of myStorya free for download on iOS, Android, and Amazon devices. For more i n f o r m a t i o n , v i s i t MyStoryaApp.com. - Simona Opolentisima, EggCrate Ideas LLC, Email: hello@eggcrateideas.com October 10-16, 2014 Page 20 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS WB remains bullish on PH By Paolo G. Montecillo The Philippines would be among the 10 biggest markets for technology devices next year with about $4.1 billion worth of products expected to be sold in the country, according to global market research firm GfK. AP file photo PH to rank among biggest markets for tech devices Research firm GfK estimates sales in 2015 to reach $4.1B By Ben O. de Vera MANILA -- The Philippines would be among the 10 biggest m a r ke t s f o r t e c h n o l o g y devices next year with about $4.1 billion worth of products expected to be sold in the country, according to global market research firm GfK. In a statement, GfK said that while the global technology device market in 2015 would only match the $1 trillion in revenues being posted since 2011, greater opportunities arise from 10 emerging markets that are poised to grow a combined $10.1 billion next year. According to GfK forecasting director Kevin Walsh, this projection covers up to 70 digital devices, including personal computers, TVs, cameras as well as phones. In the case of the Philippines, purchases of technology devices are expected to grow 6 percent next year from projected sales worth $3.8 billion this year. Besides the Philippines, the nine other emerging digital device growth markets identified by GfK were Bangladesh, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Indonesia, Nigeria, Pakistan and Vietnam. China remains the largest market for technology devices with a $199-billion market in The Philippines is expected once again to grow faster than any other major economy in Southeast Asia this year, the World Bank said, even as it stressed the need for the government to sustain reforms that could cement gains for the future. In a report released at the weekend, the World Bank said it expected the Philippines to grow by 6.4 percent. The Washington-based lender stuck to its previous projection released last August. Last year, the Philippine economy surged 7.2 percent, beating all major Southeast Asian markets. The rest of developing East Asia is expected to grow by 6.9 percent, but excluding China, economies in the region are expected to grow an average 5.3 percent. “Private consumption, supported by strong remittances, will account for more than half of overall growth,” the bank said. This latest projection is still below the government's target range of 6.5 to 7.5 percent for 2014. Next year, the state goal moves up to 7 to 8 percent, before rising another half percentage point to 7.5 to 8.5 percent. Last August, the World Bank said that if current growth rates were 2014, although growth is seen inching up by just 1 percent to $200.8 billion in 2015. Among emerging markets, the Indian subcontinent is the top growth area - sales of digital devices are projected to jump 16 percent in India, 15 percent in Pakistan and 13 percent in Bangladesh next year. “India provides by far the g r e a t e s t o p p o r t u n i t y, primarily driven by sales of smartphones, where both volume and pricing will contribute to an overall technology device growth of nearly $5 billion in 2015,” GfK noted. u Page 22 PH government earmarks P4T for projects aimed at attaining inclusive growth By Ben O. de Vera Export revenues seen to grow by more than 8% The Export Development Council (EDC) remained confident that the country's total export revenues would further grow by more than 8 percent this year, despite the challenges posed by the container congestion at the Port of Manila, and some uncertainties in the global market. “We can exceed the 8percent [total exports growth forecast] this year. There is that possibility because electronics exports are going up, while the services sector is still strong. A downside though is the port congestion, the impact of which we are still studying,” said Senen M. Perlada, EDC executive director. The 8-percent growth forecast for 2014 will bring total export revenues to $85.2 billion, of which $60.1 billion are merchandise exports, while the remaining $25.1 billion will come from services. This, Perlada said, was within the range set under the 2014-2016 Philippine Export Development Plan. Perlada admitted however that the expected growth of the semiconductor and electronics sector could be tempered due to “certain realities.” Although global demand is picking up, it sustained over the next decade, income levels could double and millions could be lifted out of poverty. “Higher government spending on infrastructure and social services, an acceleration of reconstruction, and progress with ongoing and newly awarded public-private partnership (PPP) projects will provide an additional boost to demand,” the report read. The Aquino administration's 80 PPP projects are worth the equivalent of 15 percent of gross domestic product (GDP). In its report, the World Bank stressed the importance of the success of PPPs, noting that local infrastructure has been undermined by decades of under-investment. Problems included inadequate roads, ports and airports, and unsatisfactory water, sanitation and waste facilities. Recent congestion in the port of Manila forced shippers to divert cargo delivery 130 kilometers away and widespread blackouts are looming as energy supplies shrink. The World Bank lamented that the implementation of previous PPP initiatives had been slowof the 10 projects put to tender in 2011, only one has been finalized. Inquirer.net remains to be seen whether this will be sufficient to make a dent in export receipts. Also, the recovery in the United States remains uncertain, he said. A good thing for the semiconductor and electronics industry, he added, was the favorable exchange rate. The Semiconductor and Electronics industries in the Philippines last week expanded its growth forecast to 5-8 percent on the back of a recovery in demand from key markets like the United States, Europe and Japan. Amy R. Remo. Inquirer.net The Aquino administration plans to spend P4.19 trillion from 2013 to 2016 to roll out development projects aimed at slashing poverty and attaining inclusive growth, according to the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda). In the “Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016: Revalidated Public Investment Program” report released on Oct. 3, Neda Director General Arsenio M. Balisacan noted that despite the robust economic growth rates being posted by the country during the first half of President Aquino's term, the Philippines had yet to see the real sign of progress which was the “improvement in the lives of our people.” “We need to do more to ensure that our country's economic progress is felt by all Filipinos, regardless of geographic location or social standing. To ensure inclusivity, we need new approaches that are more responsive to the needs of sectors and areas where many of the poor are found so that they can contribute to and benefit from e c o n o m i c g r o w t h ,” B a l i s a c a n explained. Under the Revalidated Public Investment Program (PIP), Neda said the total estimated investment target was P4.19 trillion to be disbursed to 1,500 priority programs and projects, including core investment programs and projects (CIPs) that are aimed at attaining the goals of the Philippine Development Plan (PDP). The updated midterm PDP targets to slash the incidence of “multidimensional poverty” to 16-18 percent by the end of the Aquino administration from 28.2 percent in 2008, the base year. According to Neda, the investment targets from 2013 until 2016 amount a total of P3.44 trillion, while for continuing investments, P739.81 billion. For 2013 to 2016, more than half or P1.84 trillion of the investments are being planned for infusion into i n f ra s t r u c t u re p ro j e c t s . S o c i a l development projects would receive P727.79 billion; agriculture and fisheries, P522.71 billion; and initiatives involving sustainable and climate-resilient environment and natural resources, P166.23 billion. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 21 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Distilling the Filipino 'spirit' By Linda B. Bolido The Filipino lambanog is going global, and the Philippine Distillers Company (PDC) is hoping it will soon find itself alongside the world's best known and most distinctive liquors. On October 8, a modern, more scientifically distilled version of the truly Filipino alcoholic beverage will be presented in suitably posh surroundings - Salon de Ning of the Manila Peninsula. And it will be introduced for what it truly is - not as the local version of the Russian vodka but as a true product of Filipino ingenuity and indigenous material. Anthony Manguiat , chief executive officer of PDC, a boutique enterprise by industrial standards, says their product is “something you will never find anywhere else,” a distillation of “the true Filipino spirit,” literally and figuratively. The small group behind the enterprise carries further the allusion to the essence of the Filipino by calling its product Lakan, an ancient title of nobility. Manguiat says it is a title bestowed on a “warrior ruler, symbolizing both character and strength of the Filipino.” He says Lakan is more than just an attempt to raise the quality of THE PDC team (from left), directors Adolfo Z. Reyes II, Jose Z. Osias and Jennifer Joan O. Manguiat; Anthony C. Manguiat; Jocelyn S. Lim, director; Don D. Dizon, director for sales; and Lawrence C. Lim, consultant. lambanog and elevate it to worldclass standards. The initiative is also meant to promote the entrepreneurial spirit among coconut growers, giving them alternatives to the traditional but no longer profitable copra (dried coconut meat used for extracting cooking oil and other food products) production. At present, he says, a hectare planted to about 100 trees will yield some 1,000 kilos of copra in one year. At P30 per kilo, the farmer/owner gets only P30,000 a year. “Just enough to pay the real estate tax,” Manguiat says of the paltry amount. PDC allows coconut farmers use of their plantations to help raise their income. The farmers can set aside a portion of the farmland just for tuba (PDC calls it coconut nectar) extraction, Manguiat says. The distillery will buy the coco nectar harvested from a hectare of trees at P300,000 for one year. “That's almost P30,000 a month,” or about the same as what A wide-mouthed glass should be used for Lakan to allow the lambanog to breathe. the farmers will get in one year from selling copra, he says. PDC has identified up to 70 farmer cooperators from where it can source the raw materials. Manguiat says each hectare is farmed by three to four families, so the indirect beneficiaries may number at least 100 people. The distillery, says Manguiat, is capable of producing in a month 10,000 bottles, each containing 750 milliliters. The company has not reached its full capacity yet, as it currently produces only up to 7,000 bottles. But he does not think lambanog-making will become a mass production enterprise. Those who have tasted tuba will agree with him when he says that “coco nectar has to be distilled immediately.” Highly perishable, tuba starts fermenting right away, and will turn into vinegar just hours after it is harvested. So PDC, based in Lipa City, Batangas, sources its raw materials from plantations closest to itin Quezon and Marinduque. “If we want to do more, we will have to set up plants where the source (of) coco nectar is,” Manguiat says. This means expansion will involve having distilleries in the Visayas and Mindanao. Despite past and recent threats of coconut pests and natural calamities that devastate plantations annually, Manguiat is confident the initiative will be sustained, as the tree grows in almost 90 percent of the country. The “inventor” of the new lambanog aspiring for global recognition is Lawrence G. Lim, who has 10 years of experience distilling the spirit behind him. u Page 22 Max's to buy US-based eMax to consolidate overseas revenues By Doris C. Dumlao MANILA -- Leading casual dining restaurant chain Max's Group Inc. plans to gobble up the US-based company that grants franchises for the development and operation of Max's-branded restaurants in North America, allowing the listed entity to consolidate overseas revenues into its books. In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange on Oct. 7, Max's said the management has recommended to its board to consider including eMax's LLC (eMax) in the ongoing integration of businesses. Max's is consolidating with publicly listed Pancake House Inc., creating one of the country's largest restaurant chains. EMax is a duly registered entity in Colorado, USA, which holds the franchise and intellectual property rights for Max's restaurants for North America. This offshore company is currently held by certain principal shareholders of the Max's group. “Such an acquisition will allow all shareholders of MGI to benefit from the expected growth of the Max's restaurant business in North America, consistent with the company's strategy and rationale for the Integration,” the disclosure said. The transaction is expected to be submitted for the approval of the respective boards of directors of Max's and eMax in the fourth quarter of this year. This is upon the availability of third party valuation opinions to be commissioned by the company to ensure that the transaction will be fair from a financial point of view and customary due diligence. The disclosure said this transaction would allow the company to consolidate all revenues generated from franchising operations of Max's outlets in North America. EMax's LLC reported sales amounting to $630,782 (P28.23 million) for the year ended December 2013. Inquirer.net TO ADVERTISE, PLEASE CALL 201-434-1114 40 campus teams vie for Esquire's business model competition MANILA -- The competition is on for 40 teams from 14 different Metro Manila colleges and universities that attended t h e p l e n a r y fo r E s q u i re Financing Inc.'s (EFI) “Fueling the Dream: Business Model Competition” at the Asian Institute Management's (AIM) S te p h e n Fu l l e r H a l l l a s t September 27. Launched to encourage the c r e a t i v i t y, p a s s i o n a n d entrepreneurial aspirations of college students, “Fueling the Dream” will award a capitalbased funding of up to P1 million, aside from P100,000 cash and a feature in Entrepreneur magazine, to the winning team. Participating schools are Asia Pacific College, Ateneo de Manila University, Colegio de San Juan de Letran, De La SalleCollege of St. Benilde, De La Salle University-Manila, Far Eastern University (East Asia College, Manila, and Makati campuses), Lyceum of the P h i l i p p i n e s U n i v e r s i t y, Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, Raffles Design Institute, San Beda CollegeManila, The One School, University of Asia and the Pacific, University of the Philippines-Diliman, and University of Santo Tomas. The plenary was attended by EFI's core management team led by Chairman & CEO Rajan Uttamchandani. There were also an inspirational talk by Ifore Yu, founder and CEO of Chicken Charlie, and minilectures by SERDEF's Eduardo Canela and AIM professor Richard Cruz. “Fueling the Dream” is also brought to the students by advocacy partners, Go Negosyo and SERDEF (Small Enterprises Research and Development Foundation), with INQUIRER.net onboard as media partner. AIM hosts the plenary and final presentation. Final pitch happens on December 6, where finalists get to present their business model in front of a select panel of judges. Esquire Financing Inc. is the country's leading financing company that caters to the needs of SMEs. It was incorporated in 2011 and has since served more than 3,000 businesses around the country. It aims to fuel the dreams of entrepreneurs by providing fast, flexible, hassle-free, and non-collateral business loans from P100,000 to P10 million to small and medium enterprises. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 22 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Case vs Sulpicio owner revived By Tetch Torres-Tupas MANILA -- The Supreme Court has reinstated the petitions seeking to revive the case against Sulpicio Lines Inc. owner Edgar Go as one of the accused in the sinking of MV Princess of the Stars during a typhoon in 2008 when about 800 people died. In a resolution made public Wednesday, October 8, the high court granted the motion for reconsideration filed by the government's Office of the Solicitor General. The government lawyers said they support the petition filed by some of the victims' relatives asserting that Go should pay for failing to ensure the safety of passengers and for committing negligence by allowing the vessel to leave port despite the threat of Typhoon “Frank.” The solicitor general's plea sought a reversal of the high court's July 2 resolution that upheld the Court of Appeals' ruling dismissing charges of reckless imprudence resulting in multiple homicide, physical injuries and damage to properties which the justice department had filed against Go for the passenger ferry's sinking on June 21, 2008, off Sibuyan Island, Romblon. The OSG said the high court should “take a second hard look at the instant petition for review, reverse and reconsider its resolution, and exercise its discretionary power of appellate jurisdiction in this case.” The government's petition cited reversible errors committed by the Court of Appeals in clearing Go. Prior to the OSG's petition, relatives of the victims through the Public Attorney's Office went to the Supreme Court after the Court of Appeals ruled in favor of Go. The petition was dismissed outright by the high court. With the revival of their petition, the high court ordered Go to comment on the case within 10 days upon receipt of the resolution. Inquirer.net More PH mangos expected to reach US market By Ronnel W. Domingo An agency under the United States Department of Agriculture has finally allowed the entry into the US of fresh Philippine mangos from areas other than Guimaras. The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (Aphis) issued the ruling that took effect on Oct. 1. The US agency expanded the list of areas in the Philippines said to be free of mango seed weevil and mango pulp weevil. Before this ruling, Washington only allowed Philippine mangos from Guimaras Island to enter the continental United States. US officials considered mangos from Guimaras to be free of pests. Also, except for mangos from Palawan, mangos from elsewhere in the Philippines may be shipped to Hawaii and Guam. Palawan mangos are banned in all areas of the United States because the mango pulp weevil is present in the province. Last April, Aphis came up with a proposal to study other parts of the Philippines from where mangos could be sourced. The agency also proposed to allow the importation of Philippine mangos from areas that are either free of mango seed weevil or are treated for the pest in accordance to US rules on the treatment of imported fruits. In making such proposals, Aphis was said to agree to a request from the Philippines' Bureau of Plant Industry for the United States to recognize the mango-growing regions of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao as free of mango seed weevil and mango pulp weevil. Following the issuance of the proposed changes on rules related to the importation of Philippine mangos, Aphis then asked for comments from the American public. Opposing comments included concerns about possible adverse effects on US mango producers as well as worries that mango seed weevil could be introduced into their country. “Current imports from the Philippines comprise a negligible share of total fresh mango imports and the additional quantity of fresh mango that may be imported from the Philippines because of this rule is unlikely to make an appreciable difference in the total quantity imported,” Aphis said. And unless all Philippine shipments are treated based on US rules, the agency said the new program would be suspended. Aphis data showed that in 2010 and 2011, fresh mango exports to the United States from the Philippines averaged about 42,000 pounds - about 19 tons - a year. The volume is considered “negligible.” In fact, it accounts for a mere 0.002 percent of total US mango imports that averaged more than 3.3 billion pounds (1.5 million tons) yearly between 2009 and 2012. As for US mango production, this was pegged at about 6.6 million pounds (around 3,000 tons) yearly, and are mainly consumed where the farms are - in Florida, California, Texas and Hawaii. Inquirer.net PEZA seeks KoreanBatangas ports tie-up By Bernie Magkilat The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) has signed a memorandum of agreement with Pyeungtaek port in South Korea to link it up with Batangas port and facilitate direct exports. PEZA Director-General Lilia B. De Lima told reporters during a sideline interview at the inauguration of the Transcosmos Global Philippines, Inc. that she just arrived from South Korea where the cooperation agreement was signed. “We have good prospects in Korea, this Pyeungtaek I will introduce them to Batangas seaport,” she said. According to De Lima, she will push for the same cooperation agreement between Pyeungtaek and Batangas port. The Pyeungtaek port handles all car shipments for China and the Philippines. “They said the Philippines is number 2 in number of shipments although we are a poor second to China. Right now most of the shipment of vehicles from Korea are all brought to Batangas port ,” De Lima said. Pyeungtaek ships not just Korean cars to Batangas port but other European cars as well. Pyeungtaek is also closer to Batangas enabling companies to save on land transportation cost. “So I think they should link up with Batangas port,” he said. Pyeungtaek has 63 berths and they are adding another 13. Earlier, Philippine Ambassador Raul S. Hernandez discussed with Jung Seung Bong, President of the Gyeonggi Pyongtaek Port Corporation at the Gyeonggi Pyongtaek Port Information Distilling ... From page 21 Lim says what makes the product different and better than the traditional “brew” is the “multiple distilling/multistage process.” He used all those 10 years “to study a n d i m p rove c o n t i n u o u s ly t h e traditional lambanog to a very high degree of quality/purity comparable to the best the world has to offer.” Lim says that the traditional la m b a n o g b u si n e ss “re m a i n s a backyard industry to this day, not geared to compete in the international market” in terms of quality and quantity. But Philippine Craft Distillers Inc. “has transformed the traditional lambanog into a premium spirit PH to rank ... From page 20 In emerging markets, low-end “feature phones” would continue to grow, despite global sales seen dropping rapidly both in terms of value (by 30 percent) and volume (by 20 percent) next year. “[F]eature phone vendors in emerging APAC [Asia-Pacific] countries and the Middle East and Africa can be slightly happier, with a forecasted market size of $5.1 billion and $4.3 billion, respectively,” GfK said. A s f o r t h e m o re e x p e n s ive smartphones, its market size would Center, a proposal that would link Pyeongtaek, Korea's fastest growing port, with Batangas, which serves the CALABARZON industrial zone in Southern Luzon island. Jung also expressed confidence that through enhanced partnership with the port of Batangas, the Pyongtaek port would be able to expand trade with the Philippines. Pyongtaek port combined with that of Dangjin across Asan Bay ranks 5th among the 31 ports in South Korea in terms of cargo handling. It is of strategic importance given its central location in the Korean peninsula and its proximity to 387 industrial complexes housing hi-tech industries and major automobile manufacturers. The Batangas Containter Terminal, whose business more than doubled in late 2013 and early 2014 thanks to imports from Singapore and exports to China and Taiwan, has been declared as alternative port to decongest container traffic in Manila's ports. In 2013, 3 percent of the total cargo volume handled by Pyongtaek port originated from the Philippines. De Lima further said that two to three Korean electronics manufacturing firms are coming in this year following his visit to that country. De Lima refused to reveal their identities saying the companies prefer to announce their investments themselves. As many as 150 Korean firms attended her investment seminar in Seoul led by Korea's Export-Import bank, which organized the seminar. “They are very interested, already three or four firms have called since I arrived from my Korean trip,” said De Lima. Manila Bulletin through its craft distillation process,” he adds. As to why lambanog does not, as yet, grace ceremonial events, like state dinners where the basi, a product from northern Philippines, takes center stage, Lim explains that “ceremonial occasions usually use wine for toasting.” Basi, he adds, “is a traditional Philippine wine made from sugar cane; lambanog is a distilled spirit or liquor.” Manguiat hopes Filipinos, especially those living and working abroad, will take pride in the new, improved lambanog - enough to give it away as presents or pasalubong and to mark special occasions. He also hopes foreigners will find it a good takeaway to remind them of their visit to the Philippines. Inquirer.net expand 18 percent in 2015 in terms of volume, especially as emerging markets overtake sales in developed markets, where “smartphone saturation is nearing completion,” Walsh said. Next year, the top 10 smartphone markets for growth by value would be India, China, Indonesia, South Africa, Brazil, Pakistan, Nigeria, Egypt, Vietnam and Bangladesh, GfK said. Previously, developed countries such as Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, South Korea, United Kingdom and United States were among the fastestgrowing smartphone markets, alongside emerging economies Brazil, China and India. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 23 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Mikhail Red wins in Vancouver Filipino filmmaker Mikhail Red won Best New Director for “Rekorder” at the Vancouver International Film Festival held last October 2 in Canada. A Cinemalaya 2013 entry, “Rekorder” competed in the Dragons & Tigers section. The fest's website explained: “This new prize is awarded to a director for a creative and innovative film…We are pleased to help launch the careers of the world's most deserving and promising young filmmakers.” Bayani San Diego Jr. Inquirer.net Mikhail Red's “Rekorder” Charie Vega (3rd from left) with Euro Pop singing competition delegates Gian Gloria, Ana Ramsey, Chacha Cañete and Glee Nette Gaddi Kapusong Pinoy concert plays to sold-out crowd A new avenue for Carla and Tom chemistry Filipino artists By Crispina Martinez - Belen Undiscovered Filipino talents have reason to rejoice because another avenue has opened for them: the Euro Pop “Berliner Perle” singing competition, which will be held on Nov. 27 in Berlin, Germany. It is only this year that Filipino contestants are being accepted to the prestigious annual singing contest launched in 2005 by enterprising music aficionado Viktor Leis, thanks to Charie Vega. Said Charie in an interview held yesterday at the Sequioa Hotel in Quezon City: “I am very proud and excited that we are joining the contest this year.” She added that our chance of winning is “very high.” Coco Martin now a women's rights fighter By Aries Joseph Hegina MANILA -- Actor Coco Martin will take a new role as a women's rights advocate. He made the vow after women's rights groups accepted his apology Monday, October 6 for his act on “The Naked Truth” fashion show where he pulled a female model on a leash which netizens saw as an act commodifying women. The actor personally apologized to representatives from Gabriela Wo m e n ' s P a r t y, P h i l i p p i n e Commission on Women (PCW) and United Nations Women. He stressed that as an actor, he should be responsible for his actions. “On my part, I am apologizing to all those who are concerned and all the women that I may have wronged. I am really sorry for what I have thrills GMA Pinoy TV fans in Los Angeles Charie became involved with the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) last year. She made clear, “I've been managing talents before WCOPA because I believe that there many out there who have the innate ability to Laughter, excitement and sing. They just need proper training, pure entertainment filled the guidance and exposure to be able to Redondo Beach Performing Arts pursue, develop and establish a Center as scores of loyal Kapuso career in the entertainment industry.” fans trooped to GMA Pinoy TV's For the 2014 Euro Pop Contest successful sold-out concert, “Berliner Perle,” Charie is bringing to “Kapusong Pinoy sa L.A.” last Berlin as Philippine delegates six September 27. exceptional talents whom she Featuring one of the hottest selected after a series of rigorous love teams on television - Carla auditions. Among them: Chacha Abellana and Tom Rodriguez, Cañete and Natalie Martinez (10-13 the show was an exciting Kapuso age division); Gleenette Gaddi (14-17 experience from beginning to Age Division); and Ana Katrina end as the audience was treated u Page 24 to exhilarating performances and entertaining segments from their favorite GMA stars. Carla and Tom, who were first paired in the internationally-acclaimed series Kapuso leading man Tom Rodriguez and his onscreen partner Carla Abellana My Husband's Lover, exuded gave the crowd an exhilarating show. (photo courtesy of Sthanlee B. Mirador) undeniable chemistry as they serenaded the crowd. Attesting with my family,” he expresses. hinalikan ko talaga ang lupa to the popularity of their Tom also gave the crowd a pagdating ko ng airport. Masaya onscreen pairing currently seen preview of his newest game rin kasi after the longest time, in the romantic-drama My show on GMA, Don't Lose The nagkita-kita kami ng mga done,” Martin said. Martin also Destiny, their fans eagerly Money, in a segment where two kamag-anak namin sa L.A. so promised that he will support the c h e e r e d o n t h e p a i r a l l c o u p l e s w e r e c a l l e d t o parang reunion na rin. [It was advocacy of Gabriela and PCW to throughout their production participate in the game. my first time to visit America so I fight violence against women. number. They did not disappoint Carla and Tom were also really kissed the ground upon The women's groups accepted their fans as they performed joined on stage by some of GMA's arriving at the airport. I'm also the actor's apology. thrilling duets and engaged in most versatile performers. happy because, after the longest Gabriela Representative endearing banter. Actor-comedian Betong time, I was reunited with my Emerciana “Emmi” De Jesus said that “We had a great time Sumaya portrayed his popular family here in L.A.]” Bench, the organizer of the fashion performing in L.A.,” says Carla. character Antonietta from the The crowd was also amazed show, should have the “discernment “ T h e c r o w d w a s v e r y country's longest running with Asia's Pop Sweetheart Julie and consciousness to know what is appreciative and it was nice to be comedy show Bubble Gang. Anne San Jose's powerful vocals right and wrong.” able to put up a good show and Betong elicited endless laughter which were showcased in her PCW Chair Emmeline Verzosa bring a piece of 'home' to our from the audience with his lively song and dance numbers. believed that the apology of the actor fellow Filipinos in the US.” comedic segment. Like Tom, Julie Anne has been one of the would convince more men to It was also a homecoming of Betong was also able to meet most requested performers in support the women's rights. sorts for Tom as he was reunited with family members whom he GMA's international shows. She also urged the actor to with his family who came all the had not seen in a long time. “The energy of the crowd support the HeforShe initiative of the way from Arizona to support the “Nakakataba ng puso ang was contagious,” declares the United Nations. K a p u s o l e a d i n g m a n . mainit na pagtanggap sa amin Kapuso singing sensation and Bench and its founder, Ben Chan, “Performing in this show was dito sa L.A. [We are happy with Sunday All Stars mainstay. “It have already issued public apologies heartwarming for me because, the warm reception we received was definitely a lot of fun regarding the controversy. not only was I able to share the here in L.A.],” says Betong. performing for the Filipino experience with our kababayans “Unang pagkakataon kong community in L.A.” u Page 24 abroad, I was also able to share it makarating sa Amerika kaya October 10-16, 2014 Page 24 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS There's more to life with GMA Life TV! Beginning this October, GMA Life TV, the second international channel of GMA Network, reflects the vibrance of life in its new line-up of programs, catering to the everc h a n g i n g p re fe re n c e s o f Filipino audiences abroad. Indeed, “There's More to Life,” as the channel's new tagline goes, with its premium mix of Filipino programming from drama to infotainment, news to sports, reality to fa s h i o n , a n d e s s e n t i a l ly everything in between appealing to every member of the household. Now on its 6th year, GMA Life TV combines both new and well-loved Kapuso programs that feature some of the Network's biggest Entertainment stars like Regine Velasquez, Heart Evangelista, Jean Garcia, Camille Prats, Chris Tiu, Chef Boy Logro, Donita Rose, Alessandra de Rossi, Gladys Reyes, Isabelle Daza, and Solenn Heussaff, as well as News and Public Affairs personalities such as Raffy Tima, Pia Archangel, Mariz Umali, Jun Veneracion, Connie Sison, Suzi Entrata, Drew Arellano and Doc Ferds, to name a few. “We want to touch and inspire as many viewers as possible to enjoy, embrace and celebrate life to the fullest,” says GMA VP and head of i n te r n a t i o n a l o p e ra t i o n s Joseph T. Francia on the new and exciting mix of Filipino programs available on the channel. “GMA Life TV is the channel for Filipinos abroad who feel that they can't have enough of their favourite Pinoy programming. So we are giving our viewers another generous serving of the programs they miss. Apart from being a source of the latest news, trends or gossip, we are presenting GMA Life TV as every viewer's companion in finding ways to enjoy his or her day-to-day activities.” Among the new shows on GMA Life TV are Weddings TV, a visual feast of wedding ideas; Pinay Beauty Queen Academy, a reality show on the dramas, challenges, and intrigues in becoming a beauty queen; Nang Magising si Juan, which tackles money issues and financial management; and Young Minds Inspired, a program that puts the spotlight on inspiring and talented teens. I-Bilib, Byahe ni Drew and Born Impact are also new additions in the channel. Besides these, existing p ro g ra m s s u c h a s Ta s te Buddies, Mars, Sarap Diva, Aha!, Ang Pinaka, Day-Off, Reel Life, Love Hotline, and Let's Fiesta, to name a few, will likewise continue to captivate Kapuso viewers across the globe. They must also look forward to the “There's More To Life” music video with its theme song sung by no less Julie Anne San Jose than Asia's Pop Sweetheart, Julie Anne San Jose. The song echoes GMA Life TV's reinforced vision of inspiring viewers to live each day to the fullest, “It's a brand new day, a brand new life/ More to love, more to share, more to celebrate/ There's more to life with GMA Life TV.” GMA Life TV is available in the U.S, Canada, the Middle East, North Africa, Hong Kong, Guam, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Madagascar with an estimated one million viewers from all over the world. Learn more about GMA Life TV and other GMA International channels and e v e n t s t h r o u g h www.gmanetwork.com/intern a t i o n a l , Fa c e b o o k p a g e , www.facebook.com/GMAPino yTV and follow GMA Pinoy TV on Twitter and Instagram via @gmapinoytv. Variety is the spice of Lovi Poe's show biz life By Rito P. Asilo We first noticed Lovi Poe's dramatic promise in independent films like “Walang Hanggang Paalam” and the Cinemalaya entry, “Mayohan,” where she won an acting award. For Lovi, variety is the spice of life. In the 10th edition of the Cinema One Originals film festival next month (Nov. 9-18), she topbills Remton Zuasola's “Soap Opera,” one of the four entries that we're eagerly anticipating this year, the other three being Sigrid Bernardo's “Lorna,” Kanakan Balintagos' “Abel/Cain” and Eduardo Dayao's horrordrama, “Violator,” starring Cesar Montano, Victor Neri, Joel Lamangan and theater actor Andy Bais (“Saan Nagtatago Si Happiness?”) in a rare dramatic role. Starring Lovi and Rocco Nacino, “Soap Opera” is about a couple who fleeces POE. Topbills challenging indie for Cinema One film fest next month unsuspecting foreigners of their money - and the shocking motivation that drives them to commit a crime. Her top-rated drama series on GMA 7, “Ang Dalawang Mrs. Real,” finally wrapped up its run recently but, viewers are still talking a b o u t i t s “ s l a p - h e av y ” confrontations. She shares, “I wasn't looking forward to those slapping scenes with Maricel Soriano (laughs) - it was scary, because you couldn't predict when she would actually hit you!” Would she be willing to share the man she loves with another woman, like her character in the TV series? She quips, “If I were in Sheila's shoes, I would give Anthony away!” What has Lovi learned from her past relationships? She stresses, “Give it your best shot - so that, if it doesn't work out, you can look him straight in the eye and not feel guilty about it.” Yes, she still misses her father, Fernando Poe Jr. Lovi discloses, “My dad was very supportive of my interestsbut, I was only 15 when he passed away. I wasn't even in show biz yet, so I had not really accomplished anything. I wish he were around to see t h a t I ' m d o i n g O K .” Inquirer.net ‘Sarap Diva’ host Regine Velasquez-Alcasid. The show combines great food and great music. ‘Basta Everyday Happy’ hosts Alessandra de Rossi, Gladys Reyes, Chef Boy Logro and Donita Rose Carla and Tom ... From page 23 Meanwhile, fast-rising teen star Miguel Tanfelix, who starred in GMA's top-rating primetime series Niño, also impressed the crowd with his dancing skills. In his first visit to the United States, Miguel was overwhelmed with the support from their fans abroad. “It was my first time to be part of a GMA Pinoy TV event,” said the Kapuso teen artist. “It was a great experience and I look forward to entertaining more Kapuso fans abroad in the future.” The show culminated in a meet and greet with the Kapuso stars that had fans lining up for hours just to meet and take photos with their favorite artists. Following the hugely successful event, A new avenue ... From page 23 Ramsey and Gian Marla Gloria (18-24 Age Division). They're still looking for the sixth contestant, preferably a boy, according to Charie. “I personally chose them for their talent, the quality of their voice and the level of their performance. These talents will still undergo further training to hone their skills and bring them to an even higher level because we want to present the best that our country can offer as far as singing is concerned,” Charie remarked. more Kapuso fans in different parts of the world have expressed their desire to see the GMA's artists perform in their own countries. Kapusong Pinoy sa L.A. was sponsored by Camella, Cerritos Mitsubishi, Vonage, Xoom.com, Vista Residences, Debt Aid Consulting, Moneygram, Thunderbird Platinum, Pag Ibig Fund, Financial Rescue, The Generics Pharmacy, Smart World Mobile, Everest Cooling Systems and Direct TV. L e a r n m o r e a b o u t G M A' s international events through the w e b s i t e , www.gmanetwork.com/international, F a c e b o o k p a g e , www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV and follow GMA Pinoy TV on Twitter and Instagram via @gmapinoytv. The Euro Pop singing competition requires contestants to perform a world hit song and an original composition. The Gran Prix winner will bring home 500 euros and he/she will get to spend two days in Berlin to record the winning song, which will be sold in major music stores in Europe. “But more than the prize, the contestants gain the much needed experience and the distinction of having to represent our country in a major singing competition in Europe. Being given the honor of putting the Philippines once more in the world map is a rare opportunity and provides a springboard for a great singing career later on,” Charie concluded. Manila Bulletin October 10-16, 2014 Page 25 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Anne’s international film to be released in the Philippines MANILA - Anne Curtis announced that her first international indie film “Blood Ransom” will also be released in the Philippines. “Something to look forward to next month! My very first international indie film. I actually auditioned to get this part and got to experience filming in the States! So excited to see how it turned out! Yaaaaahoooooo,” she said. According to Curtis, the movie will be shown in cinemas in the Philippines on October 29 and in North America on October 31. It was originally slated for release last year. Curtis shot the movie in mid2012. The preview clip for "Blood Ransom," which was released early this year, shows Curtis as Crystal with co-star Alexander Doetsch, whose character, Jeremiah, appears to be in disbelief that she is still alive. Ang Lihim ni Annasandra is topbilled by Kapuso leading lady Andrea Torres Anne Curtis No other details about the movie's plot have been released, although earlier promotional images showed Curtis with her sharp fingernails pressed against Doetsch's bare chest. Ang Lihim Ni Annasandra enchants viewers with a mystifying secret This October, GMA Network presents a new drama that combines romance and fantasy with Ang Lihim ni Annasandra premiering on the Network's flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. It describes every woman's journey in finding true love, while allowing her secrets to remain a mystery, because like her secret, every woman is a mystery. The original drama series is topbilled by Kapuso leading lady Andrea Torres as the alluring but street-smart market vendor Annasandra, a loving daughter whose only wish is to provide the needs of her parents. Playing opposite her is sought-after actor-host Mikael Daez as William Benitez, a rich and handsome man who works as a marketing department head for their family business (a surgicenter). William eventually falls for Annasandra without knowing her secret. This is the third team-up of Andrea Torres and Mikael Daez, following Sana Ay Ikaw Na Nga and With A Smile. Fast-rising actor Pancho Magno is Enrico, the hunky porter who is secretly in love with Annasandra. Rochelle Pangilinan plays Esmeralda, the mysterious mountain-dweller who cursed Annasandra to become an awok. Esmeralda herself is an awok. When Annasandra's father Carlos shot and killed Elena, her Derek Ramsay vows to fight Cetera finds Pinoys wife's beating, marital rape suit Kenny Cetera friendly, gracious By Marjorie S. Duran Like most foreign acts that visit the country, Kenny Cetera of the Chicago Experience finds Filipino hospitality quite commendable. He should know. He has been around these parts a couple of times already, notably for some concert tours in 2009 and 2012. “I always love coming over here,” Cetera said, relating how his visits are “always very wonderful.” He added, “The people here are always friendly and gracious.” Another thing he likes about the Philippines is the climate, reasoning that the hot, humid weather is “good for his throat.” Cetera is back in the country to perform with Toto's original lead singer Bobby Kimball in a concert dubbed “Rock Legends.” The singer maintains that music is his “passion.” That said, he is always on the lookout for something that would make a performance more exciting than usual. To add zing to his shows, he sometimes asks his band to tweak the arrangement of certain songs in the repertoire. “Sometimes we cut down on the solos like in the song 'Dialogue.' We still wanna keep it sounding like the original but not quite the same,” he said. When performing, Cetera said he wants people to sing along with him as it boosts his energy. Asked how he maintains his voice, Cetera replied, “I just try to take care of myself, that's all I can do to stay healthy. Also, be smart, don't smoke. Just stay away from things that damage the throat.” Presented by Steve O'Neal Productions, “Rock Legends” was held on Oct. 10 at the Grand Ballroom of Solaire Resorts and Casino. Manila Bulletin By Julliane Love de Jesus MANILA -- There's no stopping Derek Ramsay's court fight against his estranged wife Mary Christine Jolly, who accused the actor of domestic violence and marital rape. R a m s ay, i n re p o r t o n Inquirer Bandera, vowed to fight tooth and nail against Jolly, who he said was desperately trying to tarnish his image. He said the rift has been affecting their 11year-old son. In June, Jolly filed a violation of the law on violence against women and children complaint before the Makati City prosecutor's office. The former commercial model said she did it to pressure the actor to support their son, Austin Gabriel. Jolly accused her husband of physically and verbally abusing her. “He would call me a 'slut,' 'bitch,' and 'flirt.' He would at Derek Ramsay. Photo by Ryan Leagogo times demand that we make love just to make me feel low and unworthy… On one occasion, he repeatedly punched me and bloodied my nose. He also committed spousal rape while I was sick in bed,” she said. But in his counter-affidavit, Derek claimed that Mary had “violent tendencies” especially when they quarreled. The actor also said that he was the “silent victim” of Mary's alleged “ o u tb u r s t s , p a ra n o i a a n d insecurity.” The TV host said the only thing true in Jolly's complaint was the fact they were married in 2002 and that they have a son. Reacting to Jolly's statements Ramsay said he didn't want to speak ill of his child's mother. Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 26 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Don Moen returns to Manila MANILA -- Don Moen, the singer-songwriter-producer who gained worldwide recognition for his hit praiseand-worship songs that interpret closely the words of the Bible, is scheduled to return to Manila for an evening of contemporary Christian music on October 17 at the new CCF Center, Frontera Verde Ortigas Ave. in Pasig City. The popular American singer will take center stage during the one-night musical presentation from Ovation Productions almost one year after his last local tour that took him to the cities of Davao, Dumaguete, General Santos and Dipolog in Mindanao and which followed his 2012 concert series that covered Metro Manila, Tagbilaran City and Butuan City. “God Will Make A Way! Philippine Tour 2014” will treat concert-goers to an inspiring musical and spiritual experience featuring the musical talent and skill of the 64-year-old artist who has captivated millions with his marvelous voice and style that gave the world songs like “God Will Make A Way,” “Thank You, Lord,” “God Is Good All The Time” and “Give Thanks”. Other Christian songs he has popularized include “Lord, I Offer My Life To You”, “Crown Midnight. Screengrab from riverflowsolingen Youtube account. Johnny Midnight: Radio broadcaster, healer By Aries Joseph Hegina Him”, “I Want To Be Where You Are”, “Blessed Be The Name Of The Lord”, “Celebrate, Jesus, Celebrate”, “Great Is Thy Faithfulness”, “All We Like Sheep”, “Your Steadfast Love”, and many more. Aside from his excellent vocal quality and style, Don's music stands out for its straightforward simplicity that bares men's souls before God, and which contributes in making worship music sound his own show which airs at midnight in 1980 where he introduced “toning” and MANILA -- Radio broadcaster “pyramiding” healing techniques. The Johnny Midnight, who is John William radio broadcaster would chant Xerez Burgos Joseph Jr. in real life, incantations at the stroke of midnight succumbed to prostrate cancer Monday for 15 minutes. After speaking in night (Oct. 6) at age 73. Midnight is tongues, listeners will drink their remembered by his listeners for his “enrgized” water.On Sept. 28, 1981, so effortless, animated by his radio show, Midnight Connection M i d n i g h t o f f i c i a t e d t h e “ F i r s t smooth tenor over catchy, where he allegedly healed people Connector's Live Toning Session” at the string-laden adult through “toning” and “pyramiding”. Araneta Coliseum attended by his contemporary tunes. Below are some fast facts about followers. The healing session was met While many worship Johnny Midnight: with widespread protests from the leaders can reach only certain 1. Johnny Midnight was recognized Roman Catholic and Born Again demographics, Don can extend by then President Ferdinand Marcos for Christian groups. to and touch a cross-section of his initiative on raising funds for the 4. He started his own “Temple of worshipers and believers from victims of the Ruby Tower collapse. Man” where he continued his alleged diverse social classes and Johnny Midnight was born on healing practices. religious beliefs, with many March 31, 1941 in Bacolod City. He first After his show “Midnight seniors and youngsters worked as a radio broadcaster in ABSConnection” was suspended, Midnight enjoying his songs. CBN. On Aug.1, 1968, a magnitude 7.3 transferred to various radio stations. u Page 27 earthquake rocked Manila and He also started his own temple where Midnight was the first one who aired he continued his healing practices. In the story to the public. The Ruby Tower, 2005, Midnight was shot by one of his which is in Binondo, collapsed and patients. He was wounded at the hip. killed 260 people. Midnight then rallied 5. Midnight allegedly bribed PDEA his listeners to raise funds for the officials after his son was embroiled in a victims and families of those who were high profile drug case in 2008. killed. President Marcos gave him a On Sept. 19, 2008, the “Alabang Presidential Humanitarian Award of Boys” drug case made the headlines the First Order for his efforts. where three suspects were nabbed in a 2. With the declaration of Martial buy-bust operation. Sixty Ecstasy Law in 1972, Johnny Midnight became a tablets, packets of marijuana and dishwasher for Alba restaurant. sachets of cocaine were found. Johnny Midnight was left jobless as Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency ABS-CBN was shut down by the Marcos operatives arrested Joseph Tecson, dictatorship during Martial law. As Richard Brodett and Midnight's son, such, he worked as a dishwasher, Jorge Joseph. waiter, and then the manager of Alba Major Ferdinand Marcelino of PDEA restaurant in Makati City. accused Midnight and family members 3. Midnight returned to the of the suspects of bribing PDEA officials airwaves in 1980 and introduced for their release. “toning” and “pyramiding” Sources: The Tusculoosa News, healing.DZBB offered Johnny Midnight Youtube clips, Inquirer archives Ang lihim ... From page 25 daughter, Esmeralda cursed the human Annasandra to be an awok. Keeping the real identity of Annasandra a secret to protect her from being hurt and hurting other people, Glydel Mercado plays Belinda Vergara, the simple and loving mother of Annasandra. Emilio Garcia is Carlos Ve r g a r a , t h e l o v i n g f a t h e r o f Annasandra who inadvertently brought the curse upon his daughter. Ma. Isabel Lopez is Rosario, an “awok” and the mother of Esmeralda. Arthur Solinap is Kenneth, the doctor best friend of William. Joyce Burton is Hazel Benitez, the ex-beauty queen socialite mother of William; and Cris Villonco as Lorraine Armada, the beautiful surgicenter model who will do anything just to win William. Completing the cast are Gab de Leon as Jimmy, the confidant of Enrico; and Erika Padilla as Becca, the bubbly and cheerful best friend of Annasandra. In Ang Lihim Ni Annasandra, twist of events led Annasandra to be cursed. From her human form, she transforms into an “awok” when dusk sets in. Her parents keep her real identity a secret to protect Annasandra from being misjudged, from being harmed and from harming other people. Will Annasandra's life ever be normal? Will she ever find true love and happiness despite her secret? Much like how your own secret defines who you are, find out how one woman's secret can lead her to everlasting love in Ang Lihim ni Annasandra, beginning October 7 on GMA Pinoy TV. For more information on your favourite Kapuso programs, visit www.gmanetwork.com/international. October 10-16, 2014 Page 27 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Filipinos in Talents Tokyo Tiya Pusit. Inquirer file photo Tiya Pusit dies of multiple organ failure By Marinel R. Cruz MANILA -- Veteran comedienne Tiya Pusit, who became a household name via the 1980s sitcom “Eh Kasi Babae,” passed away due to multiple organ failure at the Philippine Heart Center in Quezon City on October 2. She was 66. Tiya Pusit, whose real name was Myrna Villanueva, died at 11:30 p.m., according to her son Christian Uybengkee. Villanueva's remains now lie at the St. Peter Chapels in Quezon City, with public viewing from Oct. 4-7. Interment details were to be announced later. Uybengkee called for prayers from his mother's fans. “The family is in pain but is trying to cope with her death the best way we can,” he told the Inquirer by phone on Friday. Villanueva, who had fallen ill in April, battled several health problems, including kidney failure and aortic aneurysm. She underwent a double heart bypass surgery on Sept. 9, but failed to recover from it. In a statement, Uybengkee said Villanueva had had two episodes of stroke since the operation. Her kidneys also failed “rapidly.” Villanueva's friend, Elaine Lozano, was at the hospital at the time of the Don Moen ... From page 26 A frequent visitor to the Philippines during the past several years, Don has established a solid base of Pinoy fans of different classes and ages and who are expected to turn out in impressive numbers during his coming performance. Associated with some of the bestknown contemporary Christian music for more than three decades, Don developed his musical talent while attending Oral Roberts University in Oklahoma until he became a Living Sound musician for Terry Law Ministries before joining Integrity Incorporated, authors of the “Hosanna! Music” praise and worship series. As worship leader, he produced a total of 11 volumes in the series, including the first album, “Hosanna! Music: Give Thanks” which sold hundreds of thousands of copies and became the label's bestseller. He followed this up with a number of successful albums of his own. His music has total global sales of over five million copies. Don received a Dove Award for his work on the musical, “God With Us” and Dove Award nominations for ”God Will comedienne's passing. “I was also with her last Monday. I even told her that she should get better because she's too beautiful to be staying in a hospital. She just looked at me with her smiling eyes,” Lozano recalled. Lozano said Villanueva “flat-lined right after the members of a prayer group present (on Thursday night) finished their prayer and said 'Amen.' It was a bittersweet moment. It was like she had been released and would no longer experience all the hardships.” Villanueva was last seen in ABSCBN's drama series “Ikaw Lamang” and the TV5 sitcom “Confessions of a Torpe.” She was also in GMA 7 programs “Akin Pa Rin Ang Bukas” (2013), “One True Love” (2012), “Bahay Mo Ba 'To?” (2005), as well as in “Mara Clara” (ABS-CBN, 2011) and “Momay” (ABS-CBN, 2010). Tiya Pusit was best known for her comedic roles in a career that spanned over three decades. On the big screen, she appeared in over a dozen movies like “Dorm Boys” (2012), “A Journey Home” (2009), “Bakit ba Ganyan (Ewan ko nga ba, Darling)” (2000), “Huwag na Huwag kang Lalapit Darling” (1997) and “Hulihin si…Nardong Toothpick (1990), and “Leroy Leroy Sinta” (1988). Inquirer.net Make A Way” and eight other songs two years earlier. A greatest hits compilation featuring 19 top hits and aptly titled, “God Will Make A Way: The Best of Don Moen” was released by Integrity in 2003. A prolific songwriter, Don has worked with Claire Cloninger, Paul Overstreet, Martin J. Nystrom, Randy Rothwell, Ron Kenoly, Bob Fitts, Debbye Graafsma, Paul Baloche, Tom Brooks, among many others. He has also worked with talented musicians like Justo Almario, Abraham Laboriel, Alex Acuna, Paul Jackson, Jr., Lenny LeBlanc and Carl Albrecht. He is visiting the Philippines fresh from a historic Holy Land tour on Sept. 914, where he worshipped in Israel together with his wife Luisa and other worship leaders like Lenny LeBlanc, Paul Wilbur and Bible teacher and author Stephen Mansfield. Three months earlier, He embarked on a tour of Africa that was highlighted by a three-day concert in Kampala, capital city of Uganda. “God Will Make A Way! Philippine Tour 2014” is produced by Ovation Productions and supported by The Philippine Star, Manila Bulletin, BusinessWorld, Inquirer.net, 96.3 Easy Rock, Retro 105.9 and Monster Radio RX 93.1. Inquirer.net Five Filipinos made it to Talents Tokyo 2014 to be held during the 15th Tokyo FILMex from Nov. 24 to 29. Attending the “filmmaker cultivation project” are directors Giancarlo Abrahan, Siege Ledesma and Chuck Gutierrez, and producers Alemberg Ang and Armi Rae Cacanindin. Each participant will have the opportunity to present his or her project for analysis by a panel of industry experts. Hannah Espia's second film “Learning to Build a Fire” was chosen for the Next Masters Hannah Espia (left) and Alemberg Ang. Inquirer photos Support Program Project the International Promotion Development Fund, while Fund for “Bwaya.” Inquirer.net Francis Xavier Pasion received Glamorous villainess By Andy Bais KC Concepcion Ariel Yap-Reyes, visual merchandising consultant: “KC Concepcion is very effective playing a villainess in 'Ikaw Lamang.' I'm not a fan, but I am impressed with KC's believable portrayal. She was out of the limelight for almost a year to study acting abroad, and it paid off big time. Like Cherie Gil, she's a glamorous kontrabida!” Inquirer.net Kris Aquino buys land for Josh, Bimby MANILA -- Actress-host Kris Aquino said she recently bought land for her two sons, Josh and Bimby. On Instagram, Aquino said the land will be used for her sons' swimming pool and outdoor area. "Although we waited 24 months for turnover, we were able to get corner lots on a nice slope next to the cul de sac which will be left with open green fields," Aquino told her more than one million Instagram followers. "Where we live now, we don't have a garden and my two [sons] have really been wishing for more space... So now I can fulfill my promise to them that we'll have a swimming pool and a big outdoor area to play in," she added. The actress-host did not give further details in her Instagram post. Aquino, one of the Philippines' top celebrity endorsers, earlier shared that she bought a franchise of a Chinese fast food restaurant. She said she is working hard for the future of her sons. Kris Aquino. MNS photo October 10-16, 2014 Page 28 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Pacquiao prepares 'non-stop assault' on bigger, taller Algieri By Aquiles Z. Zonio Daniel Parantac, proud of his silver medal in the Asian Games. Niño Jesus Orbeta Dream that started in Burnham fulfilled in Korea By Kimberlie Quitasol BAGUIO CITY -- One morning 12 years ago, Tony Candelaria was walking in Burnham Park here and saw a boy, then about 11 years old, mimicking the movement of a group of elderly people doing tai chi (a martial art characterized by slow movements). Candelaria, head of the Wushu Federation of the Philippines' Cordillera chapter, quickly saw potential as he watched the boy, Daniel Parantac, move gracefully. He said more than Parantac's ease in learning the art, what struck him most when he first saw the boy at the park was his heart. “He was so focused and was learning tai chi from the heart. You could see it in his face,” said Candelaria, who took Parantac under his wing. That partnership bore fruit as Parantac, now 23, continues to reap honors for the country. He delivered the Philippines' first silver medal in the Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea. Candelaria said Parantac did not achieve this overnight. “He showed his love for the sport during the Incheon games, where he stretched his limits and won the silver even with an injured knee,” Candelaria said. “I know it was painful at some point but he kept his focus and gave his best,” he said. Parantac started as a member of the Baguio wushu team. His impressive performance in regional competitions won him a slot in the Philippine national junior team and later, in the Philippine wushu team. In 2010, Parantac competed in the Asian Games in Guangzhou, China, where he ranked 14th among 45 competitors in the men's Taijiquan and First time in Manila ... From page 17 Ma. Elizabeth Gustilo, senior director of arts and culture for the Ayala Foundation, Inc. “We thank Femsa for the opportunity to connect and to continue to learn from our shared histories and heritage through the comprehensive exhibition 'Mexico: Fantastic Identity, 20th Century Masterpieces featuring the Femsa Collection.'” Taijijian all-round event. In 2011, after winning silver in the same event in the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in Indonesia, he represented the country in the world championships in Ankara, Turkey, and ranked 9th. He returned to the world championships in 2013 and won two medals - bronze for Taijiquan and silver for Duilian. He bagged gold in the Taijiquan and Taijijian all-round event in the 2013 SEA Games in Myanmar. Candelaria said despite limited resources from the Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) and lack of proper training facilities, Parantac and members of the region's wushu team have shown dedication and continued to hone their skills. “We have to make do of what we have. The community support has been very helpful but we need more to sustain and move forward from where we are now,” he said. Candelaria said Parantac is a dedicated and diligent athlete who has not missed a single training day in the past 12 years. “In wushu, training is important and to be able to perfect it, you must not stop training,” he said. Parantac's mother, Nora, said her son, a graduating education student of the University of the Cordilleras, had to squeeze in his training with school work. “He had to miss classes because of his training and competitions,” she said. Candelaria said Parantac shares his time coaching the national junior team and wushu teams in other universities. “We have many wushu coaches in Cordillera. But with Daniel helping in developing the next generation of wushu athletes, I am sure that more will follow in his footsteps and make the country proud,” he said. Inquirer.net Juan Domínguez, human resources and corporate affairs director of CocaCola Femsa Asia Division, said, “CocaCola Femsa Philippines endeavors to build a stronger bond with the Filipino people by promoting greater awareness of the Mexican art movement and bringing to the country heritage pieces, including works made by Mexican National Artists. It is our hope that this will be another milestone for Coca-Cola Femsa Philippines as we continue on our journey of value generation in the country.” Inquirer.net GENERAL SANTOS CITY -World eight-division boxing champion and Sarangani Representative Manny Pacquiao has been training for a 12-round non-stop offensive against undefeated American boxer Chris Algieri. Pacquiao will be defending his World Boxing Organization (WBO) Welterweight crown against a 5'11 Algieri on November 23 at Venetian Hotel in Macau, China. “We are training him for more head movements, more punching combinations and a non-stop assault. We expect a bigger and taller Algieri to run around the ring. We should be ready for that. But, just in case, Algieri decides to mix it up then much better. The fight would end earlier,” assistant trainer and coach Robert “Buboy” Fernandez said in an interview. Fernandez added that they have been devising a game plan to limit the movement of Algieri inside the ring. “We will employ non-stop pressure. Our fighting congressman will chase him wherever he goes. Then try to throw three to five punching combinations to the head and body,” Fernandez bared. Fe r n a n d e z h a s b e e n enduring pain on both wrists brought about by the strong punches unleashed by Pacquiao during mitt's session. “There was no fracture but the doctor advised me to take a rest for two weeks. I can't do that at this stage when we're in the thick of training for the Algieri fight. No matter what would happen, the training should continue,” Fernandez said. When asked to rate the c u r re n t c o n d i t i o n i n g o f Pacquiao, Fernandez said: “The way I see it, he's 88 percent ready at this stage. It's still a long way to go. My job is to prepare him for a more heavy training when Coach Freddie Roach arrives.” Roach is slated to arrive here Wednesday (October 8). Pacquiao's first sparring session was scheduled on Friday. Canadian match-maker and financial adviser Michael Koncz said Roach would be bringing along with him two sparring mates for Pacquiao. “We are not taking Algieri lightly. The guy is not a onedimensional fighter. He has the ability to adjust to an opponent's fighting style,” Koncz said in an interview. Koncz, however, praised Pacquiao for keeping himself in shape even without a fight. “Manny Pacquiao is different from other fighters. He stays in shape even if there's no fight and his level of enthusiasm remains high even at this stage of his boxing career,” Koncz said. According to him, the Filipino boxing legend is already in tremendous condition several weeks before the scheduled fight. “His focus is great and even much better than what I had observed two years ago,” he said. Pacquiao has been suffering from a stiff shoulder since last week after his conditioning coach Justin Fortune included plyometrics in his training. “That is a normal effect of plyometrics. After two to three days, muscle stiffness would b e g o n e ,” Fo r t u n e s a i d . Inquirer.net October 10-16, 2014 Page 29 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Filipina moms choose to build a generation of kids with 'multiple intelligence’ MANILA -- Traditionally, it is believed that standardized intelligence tests measure intelligence accurately and meaningfully, but according to Howard Gardner, Hobbs professor of education and cognition at the H a r va rd G ra d u a t e S c h o o l o f Education, intelligence is more complex than that. “It was generally believed that intelligence was a single entity that was inherited, and that human beings initially a blank state could be trained to learn anything, provided that it was presented in an appropriate way,” said Gardner in his landmark work Frames of Mind, The Theory of Multiple Intelligences. “Nowadays, an increasing number of researchers believe precisely the opposite; that there exists a multitude of intelligences, quite independent of each other, that each intelligence has its own strengths and constraints…” he added. Gardner's theory eventually gave rise to what's known as multiple intelligence simply put, it is brain smart, body smart, and people smart. The theory questions the idea that intelligence is a single entity, that it results from a single factor and that it can be measured simply via IQ tests. The theory believes that intelligence is something that can continue to develop throughout life. While the concept of multiple higher standard of intelligence and being the best enablers that our children could have. We are more than ready for progressive learning. We are more than ready for our children to take the lead,” says celebrity mom to Kenobi and Sakura, Giselle Tongi. Stylist, Author, and Columnist Jenni Epperson with Model and entrepreneur Mikaela Actress Giselle Tongi-Walters with son son Dylan Epperson. Lagdameo-Martinez with son Tyler Kenobi Walters. Martinez. intelligence may not seem to have caught on in the Philippines yet, experts from Wyeth Nutrition's Progress Pre-School GOLD say otherwise, noting that the progressive moms behavior very much points to their acceptance of the theory's advantages. Moms' response to a challenging environment Every mom wants what's best for their children. With more readily available and wide-ranged activities to explore, Filipino moms involve their kids with as much programs at an early stage. Options such as special classes, sorts clinics and art classes help children know more about a wider range of subject matters. More mothers are also enrolling their children in school to receive pre-primary education at earlier ages than the norm a decade ago. Furthermore, with the social media boost, Filipino moms have formed the habit of showing off their child's big and small achievements. The digital space has urged moms to celebrate that their children have what it takes to stay ahead of their generation by being more wellrounded. “It seems like the standard EXPRESS SUDOKU HOW TO PLAY: Place a number from 1 to 9 in each empty cell so that each row, each column and each 3x3 block contains all the numbers from 1 to 9 Solution to Issue 40 Sudoku Solution to Issue 40 Crossword of intelligence had levelled up. A child can be considered an achiever if he is successful in demonstrating his understanding of concepts and skills in multiple ways given different scenarios,” says Mikaela LagdameoMartinez, model, entrepreneur. This paradigm shift in developing intelligence has caused moms to commit towards inspiring, challenging and preparing their children to become excellent in more fields and make sure that as the next generation, their kids will contribute to society's progress. “At the end of the day, for us moms, it's all about moving to a Intelligence supported by proper nutrition Progressive moms have a partner in Progress Pre-School GOLD as they further support the development of their child's multiple intelligence. Progress Pre-School GOLD is now with tis best-ever GOLD Biofactors System with higher levels of DHA, Choline, and Lutein to support a child's multiple intelligence. “It has always been Wyeth Nutrition's brand heritage to continuously advance; to continuously innovate; to continuously lead. And Progress PreSchool GOLD's most advanced formulation yet further supports a child's multi-dimensional development,” shares Rhea Villareal, SeniorProduct Manager of Progress Pre-School GOLD. For more tips on how you can develop your child's multiple i n t e l l i g e n c e , v i s i t www.facebook.com/progresspresch oolgold. Inquirer.net EXPRESS CROSSWORD ACROSS 1. Bush 6. Gown 10. A female domestic 14. Wingless bloodsucking insect 15. Website addresses 16. Cocoyam 17. Renunciation 19. Cultivate 20. Directed 21. East southeast 22. Part of a foot 23. Adolescents 25. Package holidays 26. Backside 30. Under the influence of narcotics 32. Top of a house 35. Watch closely 39. Deadline 40. Decipher 41. Spire 43. Demesnes 44. Lose 46. In order to prevent 47. Malodorous 50. Great fear 53. A field of grass 54. Skirt's edge 55. Optical illusion 60. Largest continent 61. To begin with 63. Lease 64. Away from the wind 65. Bicker 66. If not 67. A covered garden walk 68. Units of paper 1. Generous slice of the pie 2. Vagabond 3. Flows 4. Applications 5. Give birth to 6. Furrow 7. The far east 8. Flower 9. Feudal worker 10. Organized 11. French farewell 12. Lazybones 13. Barbies 18. Citrus drink DOWN 24. Clairvoyant's gift 25. Basic belief 26. Circle fragments 27. Defeat decisively 28. Achy 29. Unmanly 31. Gestures of assent 33. Lukewarm 34. "Wise" birds 36. Carry 37. Poems 38. A musical pause 42. Senior 43. Center of a storm 45. Battalions 47. Emergency signal 48. Artist's workstand 49. Fraternal or identical 51. French for "Friend" 52. Kuwaiti monetary unit 54. Deception 56. Unusual 57. Aquatic plant 58. Dour 59. Visual organs 62. Obtain October 10-16, 2014 Page 30 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS Rentals u Help Wanted u Jobs u Personal u Services We place: Nannies-Housekeepers-Companions NATIONWIDE PLACEMENTS Live in Live Out Full Time Part Time MANDATORY SCREENINGS TOP SALARIES Complete your online application today! www.householdstaffing.com 610-664-5233 LIVE-IN BABY SITTER NEEDED Energetic live-in baby sitter needed Friday morning to Monday night. Full Time Westchester, NY HOUSEMAN WANTED General housekeeping duties. Cleaning, occasional cooking. Other help in household. Must be legal. Please call 848-232-6278 Call Christine 201-750-8041 MED-TECH WANTED PROPERTY FOR SALE Wanted Med-Tech with experience. Part time (10 am to 6 pm) CP Medical Lab 33 Bowery Street New York, NY 10002 Property 4 Sale on EAGLE ROCK GOLF COURSE PENNSYLVANIA 32 Free Rounds Free Skiing Lot on 14th Green Please call Fax Resume’ to 212-625-9338 For details, call us at 201-434-1114 or send an email to filexpress@aol.com Live-in. Driving a plus. 917-578-4260 The Filipino Express is only $40 (52 copies) for one year. That’s only 77 cents per copy and mailed right to your home ! The Ugnayan Filipino Ministry's Costume Party 2014 Saturday, October 25 7:00 to 11:00 pm San Damiano Hall 129 W. 31st St. New York, NY 10001 Come in your costume with DJ and Light Refreshments Suggested Donation: $20 For details and tickets, contact: Carla (718-503-4637) Princess (917-208-5370) Zeny (718-762-0596) Email: filipinoministry@stfrancisnyc.org Or at the front desk of the parish office on 31st St. Please look for Jimmy. Thanks! Reduced $62,500/BO Call 6098121940 Take the A,C, E, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, B, D, F, M, LIRR 34th St. Station/ Penn Station between 6th & 7th Ave. This fundraising event is for the Church of St. Francis of Assisi's roof repair and for the ministry's activities. *Photo courtesy of laughingshed.blogspot.com October 10-16, 2014 Page 31 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS October 10-16, 2014 Page 32 THE FILIPINO EXPRESS