Pinoyheraldaug202009

August 20, 2009

Basilan war probe urged (Left photo Charlie Saceda/Reuters) Wounded soldiers were treated in a military hospital in Zamboanga on Thursday after a battle with Abu Sayyaf rebels on Basilan island in the southern Philippines. (Middle photo) A priest blesses the bodies of the soldiers who died in the battle between the rebels. Inquirer.net (Right photo) US soldiers pay their respects to the 23 soldiers killed in Wednesday’s battle with the Abu Sayyaf. — Photo By Jonathan L. Cellona

BASILAN - War has erupted again in the tiny island of Basilan. Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits killed 23 soldiers – one of the biggest single-day loses in the military’s campaign against terror in Mindanao. Army officials said as many as 40 ASG members were killed in the day-long battle in Brgy. Silangkom, Tipo-Tipo municipality, although they have recovered only 21 bodies. It was the military’s heaviest loss since 14 Marines were killed while trying to rescue Italian priest Giancarlo Bossi, also in Basilan, in 2007. The United States has classified the ASG as a terrorist organization after the spate of kidnappings that has resulted in the murders of two Americans.

www.pinoyherald.org First Year, No.19 August 20, 2009

The ASG is believed to be affiliated with the Jemaa Islamiya, an AlQaeda organization. US Special Operations troops are currently helping the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) campaign to eradicate the ASG threat, sharing intelligence gathered by unmanned drones and sophisticated equipment that listen in on wireless communications. However, it’s not clear if the US was involved in the latest military offensive in Basilan. It’s possible their attention was focused elsewhere because the nuclear aircraft carrier USS George Washington was anchored off Manila Bay, and terrorists are known to operate even in the Metro Manila region. The last time the US was known

And I love you so PAGE 13

INSIDE

Tita Cory, National Hero? PAGE 2

Nurses seeking US jobs on the decline PAGE 3

Moro rebels violated ceasefire, ambushed Marines PAGE 9

As RP gets poorer, PGMA gets richer PAGE 11

Guimaras PAGE 20

to have participated in an AFP operation was the killing of ASG chieftain Abu Sabaya in 2002. The US was able to intercept Sabaya’s cellphone conversations which helped Philippine Navy commandoes hone in on his location off the Zamboanga Peninsula .

TROOPS WALKED INTO TRAP?

The Basilan battle started at 3:47 in the morning of August 12 when Philippine Marines soldiers attacked an ASG mountain fortress where they reportedly manufactured bombs for terror attacks all over Mindanao. When reinforcements from the 67th Marine Raider Company tried to join the battle, they were reportedly ambushed by members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front. Eighteen of the soldiers killed belonged to this group. Among the fatalities were two young officers – 1st Lt. Chester Barela who graduated from the Philippine Military Academy (PMA) only in 2004, and 1st Lt. Del John Evangelista, who graduated from the PMA only in 2006. Three of the slain soldiers belonged to the Philippine Army, which fielded the US-trained and equipped Light Reaction Company. On the other hand, two ranking ASG commanders, identified as Muttong Indama and Asid Sali, were killed in the clash. Surviving soldiers evacuated to Zamboanga City, suspected the ASG was tipped off. “I was really wondering why they knew about our movements,” PFC Randy Liboon, one of the wounded soldiers, reported. Military intelligence had also seriously underestimated the number of ASG bandits in the area. They expected 50 but some of the soldiers said, there could have been as many as 200 fighting them. Soldiers’ accounts said what started off as running skirmishes deteriorated into “face-to-face”

fighting. Rear Admiral Alexander Pama, Task Force Trillium commander, said the captured camp was were the ASG terrorists brought their kidnap victims. The task force was responsible for coordinating the various units mobilized for last week’s Basilan offensive. Pama said the renewed campaign is the military’s response to the spate of terror attacks following the release of kidnapped Red Cross workers – Swiss national Andreas Notter, Filipino Mary Jean Lacaba and Italian Eugenio Vagni – in Sulu last April. President Arroyo, visiting the “front” in the war on terror, again ordered the military to wipe out the ASG. “The President directed the AFP that the war on terror in Basilan should be rapidly concluded and all efforts should be focused on annihilating terrorism not only in Basilan but all parts of the country,” said Press Secretary Cerge Remonde. It wasn’t the first time President Arroyo has given that order to the military.

EMPTY ORDERS TO THE TROOPS

To many, it was another instance when Mrs. Arroyo was trying to play general without recognizing the complexity of the conflict in Basilan. For one, the government will need to resolve its relationship with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) which has camps in Basilan, Sulu and many parts of Central Mindanao . At least eight of the supposed ASG fatalities turned out to be MILF guerillas. The Arroyo administration is trying to restart peace talks with the MILF after it collapsed when the government backed out abruptly, only hours before a scheduled sign-

continued on page 23

PGMA Dinners Fuel Furor By Rodney J. Jaleco

President Arroyo’s historic meeting with President Obama has been overshadowed by two controversial dinners in Washington DC and New York . She never got a chance to crow about her most recent US visit, cut short by the passing of the beloved former President Corazon Aquino. The New York Post’s tabloid gossip column drew first blood, reporting President Arroyo’s dinner at the swanky Le Cirque restaurant in New York on August 2. The President’s party reportedly racked up a $20,000 bill, drawing immediate condemnation back home. Critics said it was scandalous for Mrs. Arroyo to spend the equivalent of almost P1 million for a single dinner, when over a third of Filipinos miss at least one meal a day because of extreme poverty. Not to be outdone, the Washington Post own gossip section revealed another dinner that cost $15,000. This time in downtown DC Bobby Vans Steakhouse restaurant, where the President and a party of over 65 dined hours after her meeting with President Obama last July 30. Asked about the report, a floor manager at Bobby Vans confirmed the report, even pointing to the corner where President Arroyo sat. Unlike Le Cirque, a favorite

continued on page 21

Tita Cory for National hero?

After the overwhelming showers of love and support, the honors are now starting to pour in for the late former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino. Just a couple of weeks after the democracy icon’s tragic death, a number of lawmakers have been working double-time to hasten the passing of laws that would give due recognition to Tita Cory’s sacrifices and honor her incalculable contribution to the country. Camarines Norte Rep. Liwayway Vinzons Chato recently filed House Joint Resolution No. 42, which called on Congress to declare Aquino a national hero and urged the National Historical Institute (NHI) to designate, build and declare historic structures, edifices and monuments commemorating her heroism. In a related move, Agusan del Sur Rep. Rodolfo Plaza filed House Joint Resolution No. 41, which seeks to make the late former President a “hero of the Republic of the Philippines,” in order to ensure “the continuity of her legacy of democracy and love of country and as a way of instilling patriotism and nationalism in the minds of Filipinos of future generations.” Both resolutions were immediately referred to the rules committee and are currently subjects of discussion in the House

Tita Cory Aquino plenary. In similar moves honoring the late widow of Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Senators also filed 12 resolutions honoring Aquino and expressing “deepest condolences” to her family. A joint resolution, approved by both

legislative chambers, also bestowed the “highest congressional honor” on the late President. It should also be recalled that The House of Representatives suspended sessions for the week in deference to the nationwide mourning of Aquino’s death.

August 20, 2009

According to Chato, declaring Aquino a national hero is vital in instilling nationalism and pride of country. “A people needs to be aware of their history in order to understand their present,” she said in pushing for her resolution. The Camarines Norte representative also hailed the late President for continuing to battle corruption, injustice and political tyranny even in her last days, and praised her for bringing honor to the country. “With an unwavering faith in God, she left a legacy that transcended the many failings of her administration. The consolidation of democracy through the peaceful hand-over of power in a country where no president had stepped down voluntarily since 1964 was perhaps her greatest,” Chato added. In his resolution, Plaza noted the many accolades and words of love for the former President and her accomplishments, even in death. “After her term ended, President Aquino remained an indefatigable force and a unifying force by leading the people in campaigns to fight government abuses and whenever democracy and the country’s democratic gains and institutions are threatened,” Plaza said.

FilAms decry Obama-Arroyo meet as one of ‘missed opportunity’

WASHINGTON D.C. -- Filipino Americans expressed disappointment that the recent meeting between U.S. President Barack Obama and Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo did not discuss issues close to their hearts, such as immigration, veterans pension, and graft and corruption in Manila. “It’s a useless meeting. The Philippines is not going to benefit from this meeting, just expenses for the country,” said Tess Alarcon, who works for a nonprofit organization. “I would have liked for them to talk about immigration,” said community activist Ben de Guzman. “I would have liked to see discussions about not only Filipinos in the Philippines but how our kababayans here are affected by the issues here.” He was referring to the gripping recession that is forcing some Filipinos to lose their jobs and foreclose on their homes. “I was disappointed that there wasn’t a broader effort to have more public meetings with people here and the community. I just didn’t get a sense of interest working with the organizations here on more than a social level,” De Guzman added. Disappointment was also the mood of 85-year-old veteran Guillermo Rumingan. He said the veterans issue was hardly discussed. Arroyo’s eight-day working visit to the United States that brought her to Washington has elicited praise from Obama and other government leaders. He said, “I am very pleased that President Arroyo has made such good progress on dealing with counterterrorism issues. She has initiated a peace process in Mindanao that we think has the potential to bring peace and stability to a part of the Philippines that has been wracked by unrest for too long.” Obama also noted the Philippines’ strong

voice in the South East Asian region. “We are very grateful for the strong voice that the Philippines has provided in dealing with issues in Asia ranging from the human rights violations that have for too long existed in Burma to the problems that we’re seeing with respect to nuclear proliferation in North Korea. ”For her part, Arroyo thanked Obama for the invitation to the White House, and also the U.S. for “being such a good ally.” “The U.S. is very essential to the economic, diplomatic, and national security of our country. We are very thankful for the U.S. as an important ally in helping to professionalize our military and making it more effective.” Arroyo said. “Just as important, we are thankful to the U.S. for being such a good ally in our -- working on soft power by helping us build bridges, roads, schools, not only in Mindanao but across the nation. And this assistance of the U.S. has gone a long way in helping us to achieve what we have been able to achieve in the peace process in Mindanao in southern Philippines, and also in our fight against terrorism.” Arroyo, touted as the first Southeast Asian leader invited by Obama to the White House, was accompanied to the meeting by Ambassador Willy Gaa, Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago, House Speaker Prospero Nograles, presidential adviser on climate change Heherson Alvarez, and Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita. This is her fourth visit to the United States as president. From Washington, she would have proceeded to New York, Chicago and Guam before flying home. While she was in New York, however, former President Corazon Aquino died. Arroyo issued a statement from New York that

she was cutting short her visit so she could join the country in mourning the loss of the historic president that ousted dictator Fer-

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dinand Marcos in a People Power revolution. PN

August 20, 2009

Pinoy Miami Heat coach is first Asian in NBA WITH the advent of globalization, Miami Heat coach Eric Spoelstra wouldn’t be surprised if one day a breakthrough Filipino player would finally make it to the NBA. “Why not? Think big. It’s gonna happen at some point,” said the soft-spoken mentor. He didn’t even go far and cited his case as the first Asian-American coach in the world’s premiere basketball league. In case you don’t know, Spoelstra is half Filipino, his mother, the former Elisa Celino is from San Pablo, Laguna, while his father, Joe worked as an NBA executive for teams such as Portland Trailblazers, Denver Nuggets, Buffalo Braves and New Jersey Nets. “I don’t think anybody would have thought five years ago that there would ever be an AsianAmerican head coach in any major league in America. “Things can happen. I think the world is changing. It’s becoming more global,” said the former University of Portland stalwart, who worked his way up to become the

Eric Spoelstra

Nurses seeking U.S. jobs on the decline

MANILA -- The number of Filipino nurses wanting to work in America dropped 16 percent in the first semester, as the world’s largest economy sank deeper into recession, the Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) reported Friday. TUCP secretary-general and former Senator Ernesto Herrera said a total of 8,272 Filipino nurses sought to practice their profession in America by taking the US Nclex for the first time from January to June. This was 1,565 fewer compared to the 9,837 that took the test in the same six-month period in 2008. The Nclex refers to US National Council (of State Boards of Nursing) Licensure Examinations for registered and practical nurses. In the whole of 2008, a total of 20,746 Filipino nurses took the Nclex for the first time. This was down 3.5 percent compared to the 21,299 Filipino nurses that took the test for the first time in 2007. Filipino accounted for 37 percent of the 22,500 foreign-educated nurses who took the Nclex for the first time (that is, non-repeaters) in the first semester, according to Herrera. “The deepening recession in America has clearly diminished the desire of some Filipino nurses to seek employment there,” said Herrera, former chairman of the Senate committee on labor, employment and human resources

current coach of the Heat team that features star players Dwayne Wayde and Jermaine O’Neal. Spoelstra went back to his roots for a week-long coaching clinic as part of the US Department of States’ Sports Envoy Program. Along with Heat assistant David Fizdale and St. Francis College assistant coach and former WNBA All-Star Sue Wick, Spoelstra had been busy going from one clinic to another the past few days, but was generous enough to accommodate the special luncheon hosted by the PBA and Powerade Thursday at Kamayan-Edsa. PBA commissioner Sonny Barrios and Powerade-Team Pilipinas manager Jose Bayani Baylon were present during the quick, but very entertaining affair also attended by league Board of Governors Robert Non, Rene Pardo, and Atty. Memerto Mondragon of Rain or Shine and coaches Yeng Guiao, Jong Uichico of Ginebra, Tim Cone of Alaska, Barako Bull’s Leo Isaac and Boyet Fernandez Sta. Lucia. Reminded that a Filipino player by the name of Johnny Abarrientos was once considered by an NBA team, Spoelstra said it doesn’t really matter whether the

development. He also said a growing number of Filipino nurses now prefer entering other foreign labor markets outside America, particularly the United Kingdom and the Middle East. “Actually, fewer nurses from India, Korea, Canada and Cuba are seeking US jobs as well,” Herrera said. Nurses from India who took the Nclex for the first time in the first semester were down 56 percent (to 750 from 1,715). Those from South Korea were down 35 percent (to 613 from 934); from Canada down 36 percent (to 314 from 494); and from Cuba down 38 percent (to 192 from 309). The four countries are the other top suppliers of foreign nurses to America. The Philippines now has some 600,000 nurses actively looking for jobs here and abroad, or forced to perform work outside their profession. They include the 99,837 who passed the local nursing licensure examinations from July 2008 to July 2009. To help address the problem, the government has engaged 10,000 of them under the Nurses Assigned in Rural Service (Nars). The project allows nurses to serve in the country’s depressed municipalities for six months in return for a monthly allowance of P8,000. (PN)

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first local player in the NBA is a big man, a guard or a PBA superstar. “It will just take the right timing, the right player and the right mentality,” he pointed out. The 38-year-old Heat coach, who was barely three years old when he last visited the country, even mentioned the case of retired NBA superstar Damon Stoudamire. “I don’t know whether it would be a point guard, shooting guard, small forward. I don’t know. But there are small players in the NBA who made a big impact. “I grew up with one of them. In Portland, he’s an older player who just retired last year. He’s Damon Stoudamire and he had a heck of a career in the league. He’s only 5-9,” said Spoelstra of the pint-sized guard who was the 1996 NBA Rookie of the Year. “He just came up around my shoulder and we grew up together. But he kicked my butt all the time every which way it possibly could,” he said, eliciting a good laugh from his curious audience. Spoelstra also delved into other interesting subjects, including his work as Miami Heat coach. On his working relationship with great NBA coach Pat Riley.

*Coach Riley is phenomenal. The first time I started working for him, he’s like an icon for me. I remembered him from the Laker days. I have his books. And the first time I’ve met him I was really nervous. The first year I worked with him, he says I’ve been working for him for over a year and yet he didn’t know my name. I’m honored that he trusts me enough. But he’s phenomenal as a boss, more so now as a mentor.” *On his probable role to further develop basketball in the country. “Hopefully... just to help in any way possible because it’s the no. 1 sport in the Philippines * On whether he speaks any Tagalog word/s “I can’t. But I’m trying to learn some words. I think the kids are trying to teach me some foul words. I’ll try my best the rest of the week to learn. *On Filipino food “My cousin makes great lumpia. *On ex-PBA import and one-time NBA player Billy Ray Bates. “I grew up watching him since he’s also from Portland. I’m a big fan of him. Until now, he’s a legend in Portland. -- PNS

August 20, 2009

Confusion mars appointment of new Veterans envoy

By Rodney J. Jaleco

The country’s former top spy will take over the Philippine veterans lobby on Capitol Hill, but Malacanang apparently forgot to tell the special envoy he was going to replace about the change. Retired Maj. Gen. Delfin Lorenzana carries the rank of ambassador, and heads the Office of Veterans Affairs at the Philippine Embassy in Washington DC. He found out he was going to be jobless through news reports on the internet. He immediately called officials at the Department of National Defense and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), who told him he’s been sacked. As of Friday, Lorenzana still had to get any formal notification of his relief. He will be replaced by retired Brig. Gen. Victor Corpus, army defector, communist insurgent commander and military intelligence chief. His last government job was leading the illegal logging campaign following the deadly 2004 landslides in Quezon Province. Both men are graduates of the Philippine Military Academy – Corpus in 1967 and Lorenzana in 1973. After graduation, Corpus opted to teach at his alma mater where in 1970, he led a raid on the Fort del

Pilar armory in Baguio City and defected to the fledgling New People’s Army (NPA). He worked his way up, joining the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) ruling central committee five years later. He was captured in 1976 and spent the next decade behind bars. He was among those released under the general amnesty declared by President Corazon Aquino, after the People Power revolt. If Corpus was the man outside looking in during the 1986 EDSA uprising, Lorenzana was the man inside. A Mindanao native, he was one of the key officers belonging to the Reform the AFP Movement (RAM), who withdrew support from strongman President Ferdinand Marcos that sparked People Power. He was then an army Major who manned the mutineers’ battle command post in Camp Crame (they were originally at Camp Aguinaldo but moved to the national police headquarters at the urging of then PC-INP chief Fidel V. Ramos). ALL THE PRESIDENT’S MEN Both officers have close ties to President Arroyo. Lorenzana was commander of the Light Armor Brigade based in Tarlac in March 2001. Weeks later, he was also named commander of Task Group “Palace Shield” – the principal strike force of Joint Task Force “Libra” established amid the

growing agitation by loyal followers of Joseph Estrada, who was ousted by Mrs. Arroyo in another People Power revolt. When hundreds of thousands of Estrada loyalists swooped down on Malacanang after a two-day vigil at the EDSA Shrine, Lorenzana’s “flying column” – tanks and armored vehicles rushing to President Arroyo’s aid – proved pivotal in crushing the Estrada-inspired uprising. The support of the Light Armor Brigade is always crucial because most troops do not have adequate anti-tank weapons. President Arroyo was clearly indebted to the general. Just a few weeks before Al-qaeda launched its most infamous attack on the United States, Lorenzana took over the post of defense attaché in Washington DC. Suddenly, that assignment gained added value and relevance in the post 9-11 environment, especially when the Philippines was elevated to the status of a major non-NATO ally in 2003. Lorenzana was named head of the newly established Office of Veterans Affairs at the Philippine Embassy. The government and Fil-Am organizations had decided to intensify efforts to win equity benefits for about 18,000 remaining Filipino veterans of World War II. That culminated with the passage last February of the stimulus bill,

which contained provisions for a lump sum payment for Filipino veterans here and in the Philippines. Despite the significantly reduced amount, it was considered a victory because the Filipino lobby successfully fended off efforts by the bill’s opponents to omit veterans in the Philippines. Lorenzana wrote appeals on behalf of the aging veterans to the bill’s chief opponents, Republican Senators Larry Craig and Richard Burr. CHANGING IN MIDSTREAM Confusion marred Corpus’ appointment almost immediately. Initial reports said he was appointed as special adviser to the President on veterans matters. Corpus is close both to the President and the First Gentleman, Mike Arroyo. He is considered a counter-insurgency warfare expert. His book “Silent War” explains how the NPAs infiltrate barangays and use them later for ambuscades and attacks on soldiers. After his release, he was reinstated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines in 1987, with the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. He was named Chief of the AFP Intelligence Service (ISAFP) just as the Arroyo government was teetering from the threat of Estrada loyalists in 2001. He retired a one-star general after heading the AFP’s principal psychological warfare operating unit,

the Civil Relations Service (CRS), in 2003. But Corpus would prefer to be recognized for his environmental work, especially in the protection of forest resources. He developed a system of forest stewardship in Panay Island. He has Masters in Public Administration from Harvard. He’s lived in Maryland for about three years and only recently went back to Manila. Corpus’ appointment raises concerns about the implementation of the veterans lump sum. It’s meeting many problems in the processing and payment of benefits, due partly to the slow pace of working the veterans papers through the bureaucratic mill. Although the lump sum provisions set a deadline of February 2010, this governs only the receipt of application for benefits. There is no deadline to the processing and payment of benefits. An average of 10 veterans die every day from age-related conditions. At that rate, experts say, all of the Filipino World War II veterans would be dead in two to three years. Corpus will be the new kid on the block, at a time when haste is obviously needed. He will have to meet American Veterans Administration officials, as well as contacts on Capitol Hill – people who are already familiar with Lorenzana.

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ACROSS THE ARCHIPELAGO Benguet

BAGUIO CITY, Benguet- Three brothers were killed when a landslide hit their house on Kennon Road at the height of Typhoon Kiko’s landfall in the province, according to reports from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in the Cordillera. OCD Cordillera operations coordinator Alex Uy said brothers Eduardo, Michael and Chris Piska, aged 13, 12 and 7, respectively, were killed when their house in Barangay Camp 8 collapsed. Another brother, Benro, 14, was injured. Their parents were able to get out of the house before it collapsed, Uy said. Portions of the Halsema Highway, which links Baguio to the Mountain Province and the interior Cordillera provinces, and Kennon Road, a major route to and from Baguio, were ordered closed by officials of the Department of Public Works and Highways due to landslides. In a related report, rescue efforts for the last four missing pocket miners buried by a landslide in Barangay Kias here have reached Benguet and Pangasinan. At least 13 rescue teams, composed of about 200 members, have started scouring the Liwliw and Emerald creeks that flow into to the Bued River to look for the miners, said Supt. Nestor Bergonia, Baguio police director. The Bued River drains out to San Fabian, Pangasinan.

Bergonia said the search focused on the creeks and river path because at least four of the 10 miners killed by the slide were found in sections of the waterways. One of the bodies was found downstream of the Bued River in Barangay Camp 1 in Tuba, Benguet, near the province’s border with Rosario, La Union. Bergonia said rescue teams were still looking for Joel Caligtan, Garciano Langtiwan, Cipriano Millet and John Guinoban. “The whole stretch of Bued River is being searched,” Bergonia said.

Cebu

CEBU CITY, Cebu- Governor Gwendolyn Garcia apologized to the people of the province for what she said were lapses in the purchase of a coastal property that was partly submerged in seawater and filled with mangroves. Garcia made the public apology after a survey by the provincial government showed that 9.3-ha of the 25-ha property the province bought in Naga town in 2008 was underwater. The property, owned by the Balili family, was acquired by the province for P98 million. However, self-proclaimed antigraft crusader Crisologo Saavedra claimed that while P98.9 million was paid by the government for the property, Amparo Balili, the widow of Luis Balili, said that she only received P65 million. In a public statement, Governor Garcia admitted that, indeed, por-

August 20, 2009 tion of the lot was submerged in water or filled with mangroves. “So I say I am sorry. As your governor I continue to believe in the Cebuanos and I’ll be careful from now on,” the Governor said.

Davao Del Sur

STA. CRUZ, Davao Del SurPresident Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has ordered the police to conduct a massive search in villages for illegal firearms starting in November, Interior Secretary Ronaldo Puno said here. Puno, who attended the Southern Mindanao peace and order council meeting, said he also ordered volunteers in various villages to help the police in conducting the massive search, which will start as soon as the amnesty for illegal firearms holders expires on October 31. “All persons carrying unlicensed firearms will be arrested and prosecuted after October 31,” he said. He said the campaign was aimed at making the 2010 elections violence-free. The Philippine National Police (PNP) had attributed election violence to the proliferation of loose firearms. “This is not martial law but we have to search the villages because this will help [maintain] peace and order, especially during the coming elections,” Puno said.

Iloilo

ILOILO CITY, Iloilo- Augusto Syjuco, head of the Technical Edu-

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cation and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), vehemently denied claims of corruption and bribery allegations over a P 5-million education program here, saying he wasn’t taking his accuser seriously. In a telephone interview, Syjuco accused Manuel Mejorada, who sued Syjuco and Mayor Arcadio Gorriceta of Pavia town, of seeking revenge and of using the issue for personal gain. Syjuco said Mejorada was angry at him after Mejorada was fired as Syjuco’s chief of staff years ago. “I’m sorry to say this, but I cannot take Mejorada seriously,” Syjuco said. Mejorada filed criminal and administrative charges at the Office of the Ombudsman against Syjuco for alleged bribery and padding of a project that provided free school uniforms to elementary and high school students. The project was implemented in 2004 near the end of Syjuco’s term as representative of Iloilo’s second district. Mejorada alleged that the costs of school uniforms were padded by nearly P1 million. He also accused Syjuco of offering and giving a bribe to Mayor Gorriceta. However, Syjuco denied that there were irregularities and added that the Commission on Audit (COA) did not find any violations.

Negros Occidental

BACOLOD CITY, Negros Occidental- The local government has recommended the permanent

evacuation of residents from a town that has suffered from massive soil erosion. The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Western Visayas made the recommendation following the destruction of several houses when cracks swallowed them in Quintin Remo, a village in Moises Padilla, Negros Occidental. At least seven sitios were listed as high risk areas as the ground kept moving every 15 minutes and the cracks kept growing bigger each day, according to an MGB report. The MGB recommended that at least one sitio, Manaol, be declared no man’s land and its residents be barred from returning, even to work in farms, especially during rains. MGB also warned that the continuous rains might bring mudflow and floods. The main crack in the ground was now estimated to be six km long, and the number of families in danger was 91, according to town Mayor Francisco Nazareno. Leo Juguan, MGB regional director in Western Visayas, said the danger zone should be cleared of houses and a permanent relocation site should be found for residents. He said the ground would remain unstable even after the rains. Seized from the suspect were a variety of firearms, including a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) launcher, a M79 grenade launcher, one cal.30 carbine, and a hand grenade.

COMMUNITY NEWS

August 20, 2009

Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo posed with the Philippine Embassy officers and staff during a photo-op on July 31st at Willard Hotel. Flanking PGMA were (L-R) Police Attache Renato Heredia, Minister Maria Andrelita Austria, Mrs. Linda Gaa, Ambassador Willy Gaa, Deputy Chief of Mission Minister Carlos Sorreta, Consul General Domingo Nolasco, Minister Ariel Penaranda, and Vice Consuls Robert Borje and Angelito Nayan. Standing were (L-R) Abraham Agustin, Carolyn Chrans, Leary Fulgencio, Yoly Recana, Jose Edgardo Ledonio, Emma Colobong, Maya Cruz, Rachelle Vega, Maria Aurora Real, Lyda Paguital, Leo Logarta, Angelita Foster, Hermie Climaco, Janeth Falsis, Eden Regalario, Loy Cortel, Cecil Tomas, Ging Omaga Diaz and Tina Santos. On the floor were Joey Macatula (left) and Rene Tomas (right).

RICHMOND, VIRGINIA - A trio of musicians in traditional Filipiniana attire entertain visitors to the Filipino Festival here. Dominic Martinez, Veronica Kennedy and Paul Jany are parishioners of the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, venue of the Filipino Festival. The trio played popular folk melodies and kundimans. The festival, now on its 4th year, was described as an “opportunity for cultural exchange” by the Richmond Times Dispatch. Filipino-American children “get the opportunity to take pride in their parents’ culture, their heritage,” reported the Richmond Times Dispatch. With 40 children of non-Filipino descent participating in the dances, the event also taught “respect for cultural diversity in our young parishioners, said Festival Chair Rosario Igharas. The Festival is undertaken by the Filipino parishioners of the Our Lady of Lourdes and supported by the Church. Photo courtesy of Filipino Festival Committee.

The Washington DC group joins the New Jersey Philippine Fiesta . L-R: Lito Serrano, Ric Sison, Grace Valera And Jesse Gatchalian

Richmond Virginia locals join a performance of the traditional Canao by Filipinos of Bontoc, Ifugao, Mountain Province, Abra and Kalinga-Apayao (BIMAAK) descent. Performers came from Maryland, Northern VA, and the Hampton Roads area and the BIMAAK Association in DC and Baguio FilAm of Tidewater. The canao was a highlight in the Filipino Festival at the Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Henrico County here.

Philippine Embassy’s new Cultural Officer/Consul Robert Borje visits the MHC Cultural Interactive Area. L-R: PAFAI President Carl Abella, MHC Co-Executive Director Arnedo Valera, Cultural Officer Robert Borje and volunteer jade Estrada This little girl stole the show with her skillful hopping in between the fast clicking of the bamboos....(of course, the clickers will not dare close the bamboos for her !)

Delegates of PNA-New England during the PNAA Convention in Baltimore, MD: (L-R) Rose Candaza; Jennifer N. Aying, recipient of 2009 PNAA National Excellence Award as Clinical Nurse of the Year; Leila Amarra and Gina Muyuela.

Endless crowd until closing time as MHC volunteers demonstrated the Tinikling” and other performing arts. . .

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Erik Baisas (left), originally from Paete, Rizal, demonstrates his fruit carving talent to visitors of the Philippine Exhibit at the Reston Asian Festival’s Destination Asia. Baisas and two others carved traditional Philippine scenes on fruits. Paete, known as the wood carving capital of the Philippines, was among the featured sites in the Philippine Exhibit which won the Best Over-All Exhibit award from the Festival. The Philippines earned high marks from the judges for its integrated showcase of culture, history and heritage through creative, colorful, informative and innovative displays. Photo courtesy of Bing Bra-

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August 20, 2009

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August 20, 2009

Endless stream of crowd at the MHC’s Cultural Interactive Area: 2009 ASIAN FESTIVAL

By the MHC News Team

The Migrant Heritage Commission, partner organizations, cultural groups, institutions and Embassies showcased once again the best of Asian cultures at the 6th Annual Asian Festival organized by the Thai Tennis Organization in America (TTOA) with SINGHA Beer as the Presenting Sponsor. The organizers under George Duangmanee’s helm, annually assigns the Cultural Interactive Tent to the Migrant Heritage Commission (MHC), being one of the Festival’s Corporate Sponsors and who has been proven to be a valuable mobilizer partner of the Fil-Am community for high profile events like the Asian Festival. This year’s featured country for the 2009 Asian Festival is INDIA. As one of the seven (7) designated major attractions of the festival, the Migrant Heritage Commission (MHC) Cultural Interactive Area demonstrated the bamboo dance, popularized by the Philippines all over the world. Although the bamboo dance or TINIKLING is widely known as a Philippine national dance, it is a dance common to many Asian countries varying only in music and tempo. MHC’s Cultural Interactive also allowed guests to try the indigenous Southern Philippines’ musical instruments of Agong and kulintang gongs, which are also used by many Asian countries in some of their respective traditional and classic dances. The MHC Cultural Interactive Area was situated in a spacious area transforming ZONE E into a mini festive Asian village of colorful bantings with background colorful cloths of vinta, the sambulayan and other colorful ati-atihan/ mardi gras props. It was an interesting

area of almost non-stop 2 full days of cultural demonstration of the popular bamboo dance attracting a seemingly endless stream of curious crowd at the Asian Festival. Upon the organizers’ request, the MHC Cultural Interactive Area offered once again the famous Philippine “Halo-halo” or mix mix”, a popular Filipino dessert which is a mixture of shaved ice and milk to which are added various boiled sweet beans and fruits, and served cold in a tall glass or bowl. The dessert exemplifies the “east-meetswest” culture of the Filipinos, with the ingredients used coming from a wide variety of influences (eg.: Chinese red mung beans, Indian garbanzos, Spanish leche flan and the American shaved ice. The HaloHalo and other delectable Filipino foods were provided by volunteer Filipino caterers Ligaya H. and Lourdes C. Adding interest to the MHC Cultural Interactive Area were the traditional Philippine products, barong tagalog, bags, crafts, accessories and the popular MAMA SITA’s mixes which were placed by volunteer vendors (like Alpha Travel/Tixxi & Co.) on display and on sale. Filipino cuisine books were also available for sale courtesy of the Mama Sita Foundation. Zealously demonstrating the Tinikling were MHC volunteers and volunteers from different Fil-Am organizations who encouraged visitors to test their skills gracefully hopping in between the bamboos. Interspersed with the Tinikling dance were some special perfomances (Muslim Fan Dance-APIR and lyrical dance “Ako’y Pilipino) by the MHC’s Fil-Am Heritage Dance Ensemble, composed of many talents from organizations like the Fil-Am

Ministry and Mother Butler’s Guild of St. Michael in Silver Spring, MD, MHC Youth USA, Ultimate Eskrima International, the children of the El Shaddai Catholic Charismatic Group of St. Stephen in Washington D.C., the Filipino Community of the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in DC, the Filipino Community of St. Rose of Lima in MD the Philippine-American Community Partnership Foundation and ISA’s 2007 Miss Teenage Philippines USAThere were also volunteers from the Filipino Teachers’ group, APODCAA and some individuals who are not affiliated with any FilAm group but who simply loved promoting Asian culture. To the delight of the audience, the children (4 to 7 yrs old) of the El Shaddai Catholic Charismatic Group combined with the MHC Youth Group performed on the main stage of the Festival, the children’s version of SUBLI, SAYAW SA BANGKO and TINIKLING. This was followed by the performance of the MHC’s Fil-Am Heritage Dance Ensemble, a Grantee of the DC Commission on the Arts. The Dance Ensemble did a condensed version of the PANGALAY, a Southern Philippine Classical dance of the Tausug people of Jolo, Southern Mindanao, Philippines. The Tausug imitated the movements of the sea, birds and trees. The dance resembles those of “Kontaw Silat”, a martial art common in Southeast Asia as it links closely to the Indian, Javanese, Thai, Burmese and Cambodian styles of classical dancing. Philippine cultural participation was through Migrant Heritage Commission’s (MHC) Cultural Resource and Support Program under the artistic coordination of Ms. Grace Valera, former Phil.Embassy’s Cultural Of-

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Pres. Arroyo signs Magna Carta of women into law

After seven long years of waiting, a landmark legislation on women’s rights has finally been enacted. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo recently signed Republic Act 9710, or the Magna Carta of Women in a ceremony held at the Rizal Hall in Malacanang. RA 9710 recognizes and protects women’s rights at home, at work and in all spheres of society toward developing all aspects of their wellbeing. The most salient features of which include increasing the number of women personnel until they fill half of third-level positions in the government, setting up of a violence against women desk in every barangay, providing incentives to parties with women’s agenda and barring the derogatory portrayal of women in both media and film. The new law’s most “empowering provision,” however, is its recognition that “women’s rights are human rights,” said Commission on Human Rights (CHR) Chair Leila de Lima. Women’s groups lobbied intensely for the approval of the measure in both the Senate and the House of Representatives, but it was fasttracked after Mrs. Arroyo identified it as one of her priority bills. RA 9710 mandates an incremenficer/Attache’, and the creative choreography of Nolly Ceballos, a topcaliber choreographer of the leading, multi-awarded and world class Filipino dance theater company, the Integrated Performing Arts Guild (IPAG). Ultimate Eskrima’s Senior Master Instructors Walter and Wesley Crisostomo shared their eskrima techniques with the performers. The Destination Asia in Zone G also featured another Philippine Tent. It was an area for tourism and heritage displays of different Embassies where they were expected to compete in different categories. Philippines won the best in overall exhibit vesting four (4) other Embassies in the Destination Asia Zone. Thailand received the “Most Colorful” award, Republic of Korea received the “Most Innovative” award and Tibet received the “Most Informative” award. Runners up awards were given to Cambodia and Laos. The Philippine Embassy tourism and heritage display tent was spearheaded by Vice-Consul Robert Borje, current Cultural Officer of the Embassy, with support volunteers from organizations/ businesses like the PAFC, Bicol Association of Metropolitan Washington DC (BAMWDC), Tau Gamma Phi Fraternity, Tau Gamma Sigma

tal increase in the recruitment and training of women in the police force, forensics and medico-legal, legal services and social work services in the next five years until they made up half the number of the personnel. So as in third-level government positions, the Magna Carta aims to achieve a “50-50 gender balance” in the next five years. RA 9710 also clearly states that the State should amend or repeal within three years any law that is deemed to be discriminatory to women. The Magna Carta grants women the right to security in armed conflict, as well as protection from all forms of gender-based violence such as rape and prohibits the State from forcing women, especially indigenous women, to abandon their land or relocating them is special centers for military purposes under any “discriminatory” condition. The new law also ensures women’s equal access to education and sports, and bars the discriminatory portrayal of women in any form of media or film. It likewise ensures women’s rights to health, food security, housing, decent work, livelihood, social protection and preservation of cultural identity, among others.

Sorority, PAMWE and Travel Outlet. The Migrant Heritage Commission’s Fil-Am Heritage Dance Ensemble and 2007 ISA’s Miss Teenage Philippines USA Tracy Perez also proudly performed the “APIR” fan dance of Southern Philippines and a lyrical dance interpretation of “Ako’y Pilipino” in front of the Philippine Embassy tent. A sincere congratulations to the Philippine Embassy for giving their best in showcasing Filipino culture once again to win the best in over-all exhibit in the Destination Asia. An interesting commercial booth of Philippine products “My BAYONG”, which displayed and sold native bags and hats made of traditional mats, was also worth visiting . Making also a lasting impression on stage was the popular Raf Toledo’s Drama KING’s performance. Raf and his group captured the audience hearts with their pulsating music beat. To mark a Kick-Off of next year’s Asian Festival featuring the Philippines, MHC’s Cultural Officer Sylvia Nera, a world-class Soprano and soloist of the famous Bayanihan Dance Company and of the UP Madrigal Singers, presented the finale number on the main stage of the Asian Festival.

August 20, 2009

Moro rebels violated ceasefire, ambushed Marines

Military officials blasted the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for an inglorious breaking of ceasefire and a deadly ambush against Philippine Marines engaged in deep fighting against the notorious Abu Sayyaf group, leaving government troops suffering massive casualties. The military confirmed that eighteen of the 23 soldiers who died in the day-long gun battle were not operating against the MILF, but were on their way to reinforce fellow soldiers caught in fighting with the Abu Sayyaf in Tipo-Tipo, Basilan. “The Marines were going to rescue their comrades who were already being attacked in the Abu

Sayyaf camp, but they were ambushed by members of the MILF,” said military spokesperson Lt. Col. Romeo Brawner, Jr. According to Brawner, the MILF fighters still proceeded with their disgraceful attack, even if they fullyknew that they were not the target of the operation and that a suspension of military operations had been agreed upon between them and the military. “The Armed Forces is set to file a formal protest with the Coordinating Committee on Cessation of Hostilities against the MILF’s 114th base command for violating the ceasefire,” Brawner said. The military spokesman further

noted that operation was intelligence-driven and target-specific to reduce the number of collateral casualties. It should be recalled that since July 24, upon orders of Malacanang, the military has suspended combat operations against the MILF and placed its troops in Mindanao on an “active defense mode” to pave the way for the resumption of stalled peace talks. After the government halted its operations, MILF chairman Murad Ebrahim returned the gesture and also ordered the suspension of military actions (Soma) in all areas where the MILF has fighters. A spokesperson for the MILF,

Fil-Ams offer memorial mass for ‘Tita Cory’

By Rodney J. Jaleco

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Hundreds came to remember, and to honor former President Corazon Aquino at the historic St. Matthews Cathedral. Her portrait welcomed churchgoers. Fil-Ams joined friends and family of Mrs. Aquino who attended the memorial mass. Three cousins of her husband, former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., live in the area. The mass was officiated by Msgr. Ronald Jameson and Filipino priest Jose Opalda. It was the second time mass was being celebrated for a Philippine president in St. Matthews, the seat of the Catholic Archdiocese of Washington DC. Interestingly, on the day Pres. Aquino succumbed to colon cancer – exactly 65 years ago – the remains of President Manuel L. Quezon was brought to the Cathedral for a funeral mass. He too fought a losing battle with disease and died from tuberculosis in New York . Quezon’s body was interred at Arlington Cemetery in Virginia , but returned to the Philippines at In last Friday’s mass, however, the underlying theme was Pres. Aquino’s deep religiosity, as well as dedication to her country and people. “Tita Cory was a woman of faith and selflessness,” declared Fr. Opalda in his homily. “In her simple ways, she always put God first, and considered the Filipino people and the country as her priorities in whatever decision she makes,” he added. When former Vice Pres. Emmanuel Pelaez was appointed Philippine ambassador to Washington in 1986, he recruited Adolfo Paglinawan as press attaché. Margi Paglinawan, Ado ’s wife, said her husband mirrored Pelaez’s own reluctance to accept the assignment; the envoy felt he was too old for the post. “Tito Maning fetched Ado from our home in Mandaluyong and took him to Cojuangco building where Tita Cory temporarily transferred the Office of the President, pending renovation of the Malacanang Guest House,” she recalled. “He noticed that the tone of the discussion changed from international politics and evangelization. The idea of the US assignment shifted to becoming missionaries to spread the gospel and soliciting for paper for Bibles to be translated not only in the different Philippine

dialects, but for China and Far Eastern Muslim and Buddhist countries also,” Paglinawan revealed. The couple was instrumental for the rapid spread of the Couples for Christ network in the US. In a “very mysterious and unique way”, she said Pres. Aquino was key to their unexpected foray into America. “Living our faith wherever we may be, to bring about peace, to bring about justice, to bring about a world of love and joy – that is Cory’s legacy and what we are asked to do,” Msgr. Jameson reminded the crowd. Among the churchgoers was lawyer Diana Negroponte, wife of the former US ambassador to the Philippines. In Manila, she was a familiar face in the social circuit where she occasionally bumped into Mrs. Aquino. She recounts Pope John Paul II’s visit to Manila in January 1995, nearly three years since Pres. Aquino vacated Malacanang Palace. “I and my son, who was then 7 years old, were with Mrs. Aquino who then was just member of the public, not asking for privilege, simply sitting in the stands, just asking to be close to the Holy Father,” she remembers. “Her simplicity came through everything she did,” Mrs. Negroponte averred. “A great leader in such a simple way,” she added. Asked what she thought was Mrs. Aquino’s most striking traits, she replied without hesitation, “her love of the Philippine people. After the mass, churchgoers walked with lighted candles to the Philippine Embassy, about a block away. The Philippine’s premier diplomatic post in America was festooned with yellow ribbons and portraits of Mrs. Aquino – the 11th president of the Republic, her first female president and Asia ’s icon of democracy. The Philippine flag was at half staff, barely moving in the breezeless twilight air. But a bright yellow ribbon wrapped around the pole below it, seemed to keep the spirit light. The gates were thrown wide open and cocktail tables were strewn around the grounds for the open-air reception. A long queue formed for the condolence book. In the years covering events at the Philippine Embassy, none appeared as warm and welcoming or well-attended as last Friday’s memorial

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Eid Kabalu, confirmed that 10 MILF fighters were killed in the said gun battle and accused the military of triggering the fight the fight by entering into MILF territory without seeking permission. However, such claim was vehemently denied by Brig. Gen. Ben Dolorfino, Western Command chief, who said that the military had sent prior notice to the MILF. As a result of the fighting, the military has ordered pursuit operations against the Abu Sayyaf and a naval blockade or naval barrier patrol in the seas surrounding Basilan to prevent the bandit group from escaping to other islands, Brawner said.

Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Avelino Razon, Jr. said the involvement of some MILF fighters in the gun battle was an “isolated case” and would not in anyway affect the upcoming peace talks. Sen. Rodolfo Biazon, a former Armed Forces Chief of Staff, called for a “recalculation” of the government’s position on peace talks with the MILF. “The government should also study what went wrong in Basilan,” said Biazon. Elite troops of the Philippine National Police have been called in to reinforce the military in its pursuit of the Abu Sayyaf.

Fil-Ams form a queue to sign the condolence book at the Philippine Embassy which was festooned in yellow and opened its gates to everyone . its socially-relevant songs. for Pres. Aquino. He would often go with the Himig Jesuita One of Ninoy’s cousin, Di Aquino, recalled to Arlegui to help celebrate Christmas Eve how he would fetch Ninoy and Cory whenev- mass with Pres. Aquino and her family. er they came visiting from Boston in the early Lambino revealed he was a scholar of 1980s. the Benigno Aquino Jr. Foundation in colAfter more than seven years as Pres. Ferdi- lege. When he wanted to shift from his psynand Marcos’ prisoner, Ninoy Aquino was al- chology major to communication arts, Mrs. lowed to get heart surgery in the United States Aquino summoned him to ask why. in 1980. “I told her that where before the battle American officials arranged for him to get a for the souls of men and women was the fellowship in Harvard. Mrs. Aquino described school or the home, Fr. Reuters said that totheir years in Boston as her happiest. day it is in the mass media. President AquiDi called Mrs. Aquino “Achi Cory”, which no turned to Ambassador (Howard) Dee, he explained was a sign of respect for Kapam- then said ‘Well, Ninoy was a journalist bepangans. fore he became a politician.’ She said, ‘okay “Low profile is Achi Cory lagi. In our gath- this is a good plan.’ And I was able to finerings, reunions, medyo tahimik siya kasi si ish my communications degree at Ateneo,” Ninoy lagi ang bibo at bumabangka lagi. Siya Lambino recounted. He now works for the yung maingay lagi so si Cory hindi masyado World Bank but often blogs about political nagsasalita,” he explained. and social ills back home. Some people still recognize Tony Lambino as “She had a deep sense of integrity and a member of “ Smokey Mountain ”, a singing sincerity. She left me inspired. Totoong Filigroup that became famous in the late 1980s for pino, totoong Kristiyano,” he mused. Even in death, Mrs. Aquino seemed to

August 20, 2009

MILF won’t go after Abu Sayyaf, for now

Until peace talks are restarted, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) has no obligation to help government go after the al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf, the spokesperson for the MILF said Wednesday. In a radio interview, Eid Kabalu said the MILF and the government have an Ad Hoc Joint Action Group (AHJAG) to go after criminals, but this has been inactive since peace talks were suspended last year. Kabalu’s statement came after the bloody clash on August 12 in Basilan province between government troops and Abu Sayyaf bandits, who were allegedly backed up by MILF fighters. “Sa panig ng MILF kasi, binubuweltahan tayo na hindi tumutulong sa awtoridad. Meron tayong effort diyan. May built-in na paraan ng pagtulong sa gobyerno ang MILF... yan ay sa pamamagitan ng AHJAG. May mga experience tayo na maganda ang resulta. Yun nga lang, hindi ito gumagana sapagka’t hindi pa fully operational ang resumption ng talks,” Kabalu told dzXL radio in an interview. (The MILF has been accused of not helping authorities. We have our efforts through a built-in mechanism called the AHJAG. But the group is not active now because the peace talks are stalled). When asked if [it’s correct to say that] the MILF is not exerting efforts to go after the Abu Sayyaf for now, Kabalu said: “That’s correct.” He said that the only way to revive the mechanism is through the resumption of talks between the government of the Republic of the Philippines (GRP) panel and the MILF. “[That’s] the only way to revive that sapagka’t ang ugnayan ng GRP at MILF can only be asserted ng dalawang panel

na nag-uusap (The only way to revive it is if the two panels assert their authority through the talks),” he added. Peace talks between government and the MILF were suspended in August 2008, after a series of attacks staged by “rogue” MILF units in Mindanao. The attacks stemmed from the Supreme Court’s junking of a memorandum of agreement on ancestral domain (MOAAD) for the Bangsamoro people.

Recruitment

Government troops are now pursuing Abu Sayyaf bandits following a deadly clash in Basilan, where several soldiers were killed along with Abu Sayyaf and MILF members. Kabalu said the MILF members who “helped” the Abu Sayyaf were likely relatives of the bandits. “Ang mandate ng [joint action group] ay nasa panel. Both the panels can do the initiative para ma-revive ang AHJAG. At ang naumpisahang trabaho can now continue (The mandate of the joint action group comes from the peace panels. Both panels can take the initiative to revive it),” he said. Meanwhile, Kabalu downplayed alleged continued recruitment of new members by the Abu Sayyaf, saying the number is “not substantial.” “Base na rin sa mga report na galing mismo sa mga awtoridad, at apparently yung nakaraang mga araw may kaunting na dagdag sa grupo pero di naman very substantial (Based on reports from authorities, there had been recruitment activities by the Abu Sayyaf but these were not very substantial),” he said, but did not elaborate. - GMANews.TV

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August 20, 2009

As RP gets poorer, PGMA gets richer

The President’s net worth may have risen substantially since she became the country’s top executive, but the country racked up more foreign debts than usual in the same period. Such information was disclosed to the public by Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero, who said that the net worth of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo increased by 114 percent from P66.8 million to a massive P143.54 million yet the country’s foreign debt ballooned this year to a gigantic figure of P 4.8 trillion, from around P 2.8 trillion in 2001. Reports on the President’s assets, outlined in a recent article by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) revealed that Mrs. Arroyo’s and the first family’s assets had increased significantly since the President’s assumption to power after the historic People Power II in EDSA. “In other words, the country grows poorer as she (Pres. Arroyo) gets richer,” said Escudero in a statement that seemed to add more fuel to public uproar over reports of Mrs. Arroyo’s lavish dinners during her contingent’s recent trip to the United States. Escudero further noted that P630 billion, or nearly half of this year’s national budget of P1.4 trillion, went to debt payments. “Nothing has been done to address the P300 million lost annually by the Bureau of Customs and the Bureau of Internal Revenue due to inefficient tax collec-

tion,” Escudero said. “This amount would have doubled the budget for education,” the youthful Senator said, pertaining to the revenue allegedly lost from inefficient tax collection. “The next President should insist on lowering debt payments and review our debt policy so it can focus more on domestic spending,” Escudero added. On the other hand, the Makati Business Club (MBC) is challenging the President “to personally respond” to the issues raised by the controversial PCIJ article. The group said that the growth of Mrs. Arroyo’s assets and net worth was “difficult to fathom,” considering the state of the economy and the stock market when she acquired her additional wealth. “Like Caesar’s wife, the President must be over and above suspicion,” the MBC added. “As the highest public servant in our country and in the interest of good governance, she must set an example by making a full and transparent accounting of her and her family’s wealth. She owes the Filipino people an explanation.” The MBC also chastised Mrs. Arroyo’s legal advisers for attacking the press, since it (the Press) must be allowed to perform its function as the public’s “watchdog,” without any form of coercion or threats from anyone.

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August 20, 2009

Artist: Agustin Jakosalem, OAR Title: Cory Inangbayan Medium: oil on canvas Size: 18 x 24 inches

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TSIKAHAN

Ni Rica Machika

August 20, 2009

Bea and Sam bring the best out of each other in “And I Love You So”

Falling in love was not part of Lara’s (Bea Alonzo) plans until she meets Oliver (Derek Ramsay) who sweeps her off her feet. Oliver and Lara was the picture of a happy couple in love until tragedy strikes. Lara suddenly finds herself all alone with no reason to move on. Then, she meets Cris (Sam Milby), a man who’s set on breaking down her walls and forcing her to face life without Oliver. Together they will begin a one of a kind journey that will ultimately heal both their broken hearts. But will Lara cling to her memories of the past or learn to love again? “Gusto ko magmahal ulit pero paano ko gagawin yun kung sa puso ko buhay na buhay ka pa,” as said by Bea’s character Lara, is just one of the memorable lines from the movie And I Love You So. Other lines like Sam’s character Cris’s “I don’t want to be second place in your heart Lara because you’re first in mine” are sure to strike audiences to the core. Star Cinema’s scriptwriters have come up with another winner for hopeless romantics. True to director Laurenti Dyogi’s words, And I Love You So is the perfect vehicle for Bea and Sam to showcase their onscreen chemistry. After their first team up years ago in Close To You, Bea and Sam have developed a rapport that translates well onscreen. Derek’s role further underscored heartbreaking twists that people should watch out for.

Lloydy reacts to possibility of hosting “Wowowee”

Despite the controversies surrounding his love life recently, a more vibrant John Lloyd Cruz arrived at the launch of his product endorsement at Greenwich Megamall last August 14. In his latest commercial for the pizza chain, Lloydy rolls in the grass and holds hands with model Lloyd Zaragoza who plays his friend in the TV commercial. John Lloyd also opened up about the clamor for him to guest host Wowowee while Willie Revillame is on leave. The multitalented actor has previously subbed for Willie whenever the latter was sick or out of town. “Yun na nga, narinig ko nga ‘yan. Alam ko na si Kuya Willie medyo hindi pa lumalabas sa Wowowee. Well, nakakalungkot ano kasi kapag tanghalian na, sanay tayo na si Kuya Willie ang kasabay kumain sa hapagkainan. Pero talagang gustuhin ko man, my schedule won’t allow me to host Wowowee at this point. After kasi ipalabas yung movie And I Love You So, kasunod agad yung In My Life so medyo gahol John Lloyd Cruz din kami sa oras,” he explained. John Lloyd further shared that being part of the network’s flagship variety show would have been a great opportunity for him to make more of our Kapamilyas happy via TFC. But as for speculations that he is being eyed to replace Willie for good, he stressed that it’s something that never crossed his mind or considered. “Naku imposible po! Dahil ang Wowowee e kumbaga nasa katauhan na ni Willie, sa kanya yung show na yun. Humahalili ako kay Kuya Willie ‘pag may sakit siya. Honestly sobra kong naeenjoy yung show kasi medyo pareho kami ng intensyon sa audience e, gusto namin magpasaya. Yung mga hinanakit nila sa buhay gusto ko din ishare para maging inspirasyon sa iba. So in that sense, oo gusto ko maghost ng Wowowee. Pero para ako ang pumalit kay Kuya Willie ng permanente, imposible mangyari yun. Malaki po ang respeto ko kay Kuya Willie.”

for more tsika visit: www.shobizjuice.com

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Honor guards ni Cory, mistulang celebrities kay Kris

Sa kahabaan ng intimate dinner kasama ang mga honor guards ni Dating Pangulong Cory Aquino, mistulang nasa set pa rin ng SNN ang notable showbiz talk show host na si Kris Aquino. Habang kumakain silang lahat, patuloy ang pag-interview ni Kris sa tinaguriang Fantastic 4, publicservant-turned-instant-celebrities na sina PO1 Danilo Malab, Pfc. Antonio Cadiente, Airman 2nd Class Gener Laguindan at Navy Petty Officer 3 Edgardo Rodriguez. Gawa na rin ng di umano’y kadakilaan ng apat kaugnay ng katapatan nila sa serbisyo, tinataya ni Kris na hindi nalalayong Photo source: GMATV.com maaring one of these days ay ma-feature ang kwento ng mga buhay nila sa telebisyon, like Maalaala Mo Kaya perhaps; at dahil na rin dito, sinubukang usisain ng party-host-turnedtalk-show-host ang bawat isa sa kanila kung sino ang napupusuan nilang gumanap sa role nila kung saka-sakali. Si Piolo Pascual ang napili nina PO1 Malab at Pfc. Cadiente, habang si Jericho Rosales naman ang napusuan ni Airman 2nd Class Laguindan. Liban raw kasi sa good looks, sadyang di raw matatawaran ang galing sa pag-arte ng mga ito na siya namang ikararangal din daw nila kung sakaling mangyari man ang ipinagpapalagay ni Kris. Para naman kay Navy Petty Officer 3 Rodriguez, tila gusto raw niyang gampanan ni Gerald Anderson ang character niya matapos di umano siyang pahangain nito sa pagganap rin ng role ng isang sundalo sa teleserye nito sa primetime na Tayong Dalawa. Matapos ang kanilang munting salu-salo, isang regalo rin ang inihandog para sa kanila ng anak ni Ballsy Aquino-Cruz na si Jiggy Cruz. Sadyang hindi maitanggi ng pamilya Aquino ang saya sa kanilang mga mukha dulot ng pribilehiyong makasalo sa hapag-kainan ang ani mo’y mga dakilang ehemplo ng kadakilaan sa larangan ng serbisyo. Pagbibigay diin pa nga dito ni Pinky Aquino-Abellada, “Nakakatuwa talaga sila... I think they are projecting a good image for the military.”

Cherrie Gil heaps praise on Erich

Katorse will be taking over the Boys Over Flowers slot when the Koreanovela ends its local run. At the grand presscon for the show last August 13, the cast expressed their relief that the show was finally premiering on August 24 after bad weather conditions caused production delays. Lead actress Erich Gonzales was asked if she had a hard time getting intimate with leading men Ejay Falcon, Xian Lim, and Enchong Dee since she has never had a boyfriend in real life. “I come sa set on time and prepared talaga. I know my lines and kapag nandun na ako kakalimutan ko muna na ako si Erich. Ako si Nene, 14 years old, innocent at naive sa madaming bagay tapos biglang maiinlove. So nilalagay ko yung sarili ko sa situation na yun. Kung ano man ang kaiNanay Dionisia langan sa eksena kasama na dun yung kiss, as Nene talaga yun,” she explained to ABS-CBN.com. As a matter of fact, co-star Cherie Gil attested to the young star’s dedication to her craft when asked about her working experience with her. “In all honesty, I’ve worked with her already in Pieta and there I saw her humility and her patience. There were times na ang haba-haba ng hinihintay niya kami lagi nakasalang ni Ryan Agoncillo. And she would be there until the wee hours, walang reklamo, she’s always

smiling and such a very sweet girl,” she began. But now that Erich has her very own show, the beautiful veteran actress wasn’t ashamed to admit that she’s now the one who has to wait for her turn on camera. “Ako na yung naghihintay ng part ko kasi ako na yung nakatengga palagi at siya yung nakasalang,” she laughed. “I saw a lot of her sensitivity and the potential of Erich. I truly believe that she’ll go places. She’s very easy to work with and she’s focused.”

R

EDITORIAL

August 20, 2009

Splashing the cash

After the public outrage surrounding her two lavish dinners in the United States, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has again risked the wrath of an increasingly annoyed and frustrated public after print advertisements came out in a well-known local broadsheet announcing that the Arroyo administration is shopping around for a P1.2 billion-worth presidential fixed wing executive jet. To say that the current administration has come under fire would be a massive understatement but amid the countless controversies that the President has faced before, her recent actions have truly been both shocking and surprisingly irresponsible. Being the leader of a nation grieving the loss of a national icon, in late former President Corazon Aquino, Mrs. Arroyo should have gone through her business in her final state visit to the US cleanly and honorably. However, coming into the homestretch of her decade-long stay in office, she seems intent on hogging the limelight and keeping the spotlight, as her latest misadventures gave her critics the perfect opportunity to hurl bombs towards her already tainted office. With millions of Filipinos suffering from hunger and the ill-effects of poverty, the Presidential entourage’s extravagant dinners, at Le Cirque in New York and Bobby Van’s Steakhouse in Washington D.C., which allegedly had a combined cost of around $35,000, would prove to be a crushing hammer-blow to any hopes of a gracious exit from power. To say the least, all the glory that PGMA enjoyed during her historic meeting with US President Barack Obama has proven to be short-lived, and her latest roundm of misjudgements has once again put her into the back foot. The allegations and controversies surrounding the President have been growing at an alarming rate for the past week, and her so-called defense panel is starting to look beleaguered and clueless in the face of an impending storm. The opening salvo in this backbreaking character assassination of Mrs. Arroyo was fired by the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ), which released a report accusing PGMA of enriching herself while in office. This massive allegation was followed by reports of the lavish US dinners and finally, by reports of the billion-peso jet procurement. The pressure is mounting swiftly on the President and the opposition is truly gaining precious ground against the administration in the ongoing race to the 2010 National Elections. Mrs. Arroyo’s cause was further dented by her naïve spokesmen in the Palace, who angrily hit back at all the President’s critics, unwittingly putting their boss into further trouble. In defense of the embattled Chief Executive, election lawyer Romulo Macalintal issued a fuming rant at the local media, and questioned the “morality” of even questioning the President’s lavish dinners. Macalintal then went on a counter-offensive, as he obliviously attacked the media for making millions out of “premature” political advertisements, a reckless attack that exploded back into the President’s face. Veering away from the big issue in defending the President, these spokesmen made the administration look desperate and stupid, giving the President’s so-called “assassins” more ammunition to complete their task. In stirring counterstatements, opposition lawmakers destroyed Macalintal and completely obliterated an integral part of the President’s famed defense system. Once again, Mrs. Arroyo’s back is against the wall, and while she managed to escape unscathed from such a precarious situation before, none of us really knows when one’s luck finally runs out.

Rene R. Calandria Editor-in-chief

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INTO REALITY By Cecile V. Malabanan

Farewell and till we meet again

August 5, 2009 was a very “gloomy” day for us Filipinos, as a whole nation paid its last respects and bid farewell to former President Corazon Cojuangco Aquino, who was laid to her final resting place. From the time of her death four days before the historic burial, the Filipino nation unendingly mourned her passing. Hundreds of thousands of our fellow Filipinos braved the scorching heat of the sun and the torrential rains in lining up both at La Salle Greenhills and the Manila Cathedral just to have a final glimpse of the icon of modern-day democracy. Buckets of tears were shed by both the rich and the poor as they paid their final respects to Tita Cory. Everyone had nothing but praise and good words for the late president, as politicians buried their hatchets for at least a few days in honor of the late Pres. Aquino. What was really striking were the numerous stories of how simple and humble Mrs. Aquino was. Even the littlest person could attest to this. As I patiently followed the coverage of her wake and funeral on television without fail, I could not help but cry. I came to realize how fortunate we were as a people to have had the chance to have her as the leader of our nation. She came at a time when we were experiencing a more than twenty-year taste of dictatorship. From being a simple housewife of the late Sena-

14

tor Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino, Jr., she rose to power, did her utmost best in ruling the country and restored democracy for all of us. If I could remember, I was only a freshman college student at that time. But since I studied in an exclusive girls’ school just adjacent to Malacañang, I had vivid memories of the historic EDSA People Power Revolution, an event which indeed showcased the unity of Filipinos and the tremendous power of prayers. I was truly convinced that miracles do happen and I can honestly say that I was very proud to be a Filipino. Tita Cory’s necrological service was very remarkable. Filled with moving songs, truthful testimonies and lots of tears, you cannot help but feel sorry that such a good person like her had to die. More importantly, her burial was one for the books. It brought back to mind memories of the funeral procession of her late husband, which Filipinos, in a time of authoritarian rule, fearlessly joined,

characterized by a fourteen-hour funeral march. Similarly, Mrs. Aquino’s funeral cortege took nine hours to reach Manila Memorial Park. An estimated three hundred thousand people joined the procession, wearing the iconic yellow t-shirts, holding yellow leaflets and balloons and flashing the famous “Laban” sign. Very much reflective of the EDSA spirit, the Cory “magic,” so to speak. Songs such as “Magkaisa” and “Handog ng Pilipino sa Mundo” were relentlessly played in the air, giving us Filipinos a hair-raising feeling. But what happens after Tita Cory’s burial? I hope everything doesn’t end there and be put to waste. May it be a constant reminder for all of us to join hands and unite as we strive hard to bring about changes and build about a better Philippines. It isn’t easy I know, but, nothing is impossible with hardwork and sheer determination, coupled with prayers. We will truly miss President Aquino, a heaven-sent gift to us Filipinos yet her legacy continues to live on. To Tita Cory, a real icon of democracy and a modern-day national hero, a whole-hearted farewell and till we meet again.

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KURO-KURO

August 20, 2009

COGITO By Rene R. Calandria

FAST FOOD FOR THOUGHT By Rudy M. Viernes

Paging Dr. Obamacare The honeymoon is well and truly over for President Barack Obama. His media charisma (as it turns out) was just a fairy tale and both journalists and political commentators are now pounding him with negative criticisms, which a couple of months ago would have been almost impossible for fear that the minorities might crucify them for being “racists”. Now that Mr. Obama has been elected President, all the brouhaha and pseudo-praises are gone and everyone is on board for an open debate about the President’s domestic and foreign policies for this country. After the controversial and muchpublicized Gates-Crowley saga, the airwaves are literally saturated with the debate on health care reform. When the President declared that reforms will be done before the August recess of Congress, nobody really listened and believed in him, not even the White House puppet and liberal Speaker of the House, her majesty Nancy Pelosi, because to do so is almost a fantasy. There are more than a thousand pages of this proposed bill released last midJuly 2009. The President himself may not have had the chance to go through all the pages so why rush with the bill. Health care is a very personal issue among Americans, so I could understand why there is so much buzz and town hall uprising in some parts of the country. But are the boos and jeers during the town hall meeting in Lebanon, Pennsylvania conducted by Sen. Arlen Specter (D-PA) representative of what the majority wants in this country? Is the boisterous crowd at Towson University in Maryland, when Sen. Benjamin

PERRYSCOPE By Perry Diaz

Cory’s Legacy In the wee hours of August 1, 2009, former President Maria Corazon “Cory” Sumulong Cojuangco Aquino -- “Tita Cory” to millions of Filipinos -- passed away. Her death was caused by cardio-respiratory arrest, the result of colon cancer she was battling since March 2008. In the wake of her death, the Filipino people mourned her passing in a way no other leader in recent history was accorded with. It was a testament to what Cory had lived for... and fought for. Some say that Cory’s presidency was accidental. Some say it was transformational. But many believe that it was divine providence that brought her power. I believe in all

L. Cardin (D-MD) conducted his congressional town hall meeting on health care reform speak the sentiments of the middle class perfectly well? It is not and will never be, unless we engage ourselves in a civil discussion of the facts rather than listen to the “scare tactics” of Rush Limbaugh and the death panel rhetoric of former Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin. Although some of the questions are legitimate and truly need some serious specifics from the President himself, some of them are misinformed and scared about the idea of socialist medicine. For some Republican members of the Senate, to echo the ignominious rhetoric of Ms. Palin is an “added insult to injury”. It is despicable and a blatant disregard to the intelligence of the ordinary American. Cheri Heiland asked during the town hall meeting conducted by Iowa Republican Sen. Chuck Grassley to “denounce the tactics” because “there is nothing in the House Bill that will require any elderly person to stand before a committee and decide whether or not they are going to live or die”. But, instead of some intelligent answers and wisdom, the honorable Senator refused to enlighten the crowd. Rather, he “ignited the fire” to the rumor by saying, “With all the other fears people have and what they do in England then you get the idea that somebody is going to decide grandma lived too long”. While I don’t completely agree

continued on page 23 three. Cory’s role in life was to be a “plain housewife.” And she played that role perfectly until her husband, the late Senator Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., was incarcerated by the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos. Ninoy’s only crime was his opposition to Marcos. When Marcos declared martial law in 1972, Ninoy was one of the first to be arrested and detained. Cory became the sole provider to her young children, playing the role of father and “plain housewife.” When Marcos allowed Ninoy to go to exile in the US at the behest of President Jimmy Carter, Cory and the children went with him. They stayed in the US for several years until Ninoy decided that it was time to go back home. However, he was aware that by doing so he would be

Our Heroes

The Philippine government cannot provide employment opportunities to its teeming employable citizens, sad to say..So, many Filipinos go abroad where employment abounds. Thus, the template OFW was coined for Overseas Filipino Worker (which used to be OCW for Overseas Contract Worker) and has become commonplace, a phenomenon nevertheless, and it’s here to stay ingrained in the national psyche. “Global Filipino” was another term but rarely used. Time was when one was tagged as OCW the term had a rather abject, sadsack connotation. No longer because our government has dubbed them national “heroes.” Hero, in mythology and legend, is an honor given to someone with great courage and strength, celebrated for his bold exploits, especially one who risked or sacrificed his life for a cause, or has saved somebody from the pangs of death. Our OFWs are called heroes by a grateful government because their dollar earnings have saved the country from economic demise. Because of them we rarely now hear anymore the abashing moniker “sick man of Asia” labeled to the Filipino. They are also heroes to their families who are the ultimate beneficiaries of their extended stay abroad. They don’t mind the loneliness and depraved life where they are as long as they can achieve their dreams of putting body and soul together, sending their kids to school, enjoying little luxuries, if not opulence, especially professionals who are mega-buck earners. In our recent visit to the Philippines, we traveled north of the country. We were amazed at how

the provincial landscape had morphed into a once languorous landform of nipa huts into gleaming homes with TV antennae soaring into the sky, while in their garage are parked trappings of affluence like a late model car, a passenger jeep with a sign “Katas ng Qatar.” That scenery was absolutely amazing, vibrant, albeit startling metamorphosis. Another OFW vignette. My late wife and I were in the shopping mall one December day. We were behind a young family with two carts loaded with goodies and the queues were unsually long. I figured to my wife it may take about 10-15 minutes to check those goodies in the counter so why don’t we transfer? Besides our small basket was totally paled by the two cartfulls in front of us pushed by a shopper who ostensibly was on vacation from Dubai, said so by his T-shirt. Thanks to our heroes in the construction sites in the Middle East, the healthcare professionals in hospitals in the US and Canada, the IT engineers in Silicon Valley and accountants and brokers in Wall Street, the nannies, tutors and governesses of rich families in Europe, the waiters and entertainers in cruise ships, the mariners plying the high seas, the Japayukis in Japan, and the maids or amahs (or feiyungs) in Singapore and Hongkong. Their dollar remittances have become a major factor that propped-up the Central Bank reserves that prevent it short of insolvency. According to reports the dollars remitted by OFWs in 2008 was estimated to be US$15.9 billion!

imprisoned again and probably assassinated. But he was determined to go back home to meet his fate saying that “the Filipino is worth dying for.” On that fateful day of August 21, 1983, when Ninoy’s plane landed at the international airport in Manila, several soldiers in uniform boarded the plane to take Ninoy into custody. As Ninoy was stepping out of the plane, he was fatally shot at the back of his head and rolled down the staircase onto the tarmac. Someone in the plane took a video as soldiers dragged Ninoy’s dead body to a waiting vehicle. Shown on television, the gruesome scene shocked the world. That moment changed Cory’s life forever. It was the moment for her to step up to the plate to continue Ninoy’s unfinished mission. It was the moment for her to go back home not only to bury her husband but to lead the Filipinos for their fight for freedom. It was the moment of her calling. And there was

no turning back. The political turmoil that followed the assassination of Ninoy became the turning point of the Marcos dictatorship. Under pressure from US President Ronald Reagan, Marcos called for a “snap election” in February 1986. Anti-Marcos leaders immediately formed the Cory Aquino for President Movement and, within a week, one million signatures were collected. Reluctantly, after meditating for 10 hours at a convent, Cory agreed to run. Little did she realize that she was about to change the history of the Philippines. The Marcos-controlled Commission on Elections showed Marcos leading in the “snap election.” However, the unofficial tally showed Cory leading. Consequently, on February 15, 1986, the Batasang Pambansa (Legislature) proclaimed Marcos as the winner. Civil unrest ensued and spread throughout the country like wild fire. It was the beginning of the end

15

W e have a niece (we call her Jona) who was a school ma’am in the elementary in the Philippines for 13 years and whose last salary was P15,000. She now works as receiving clerk in a tire company in Yukon Territory in Canada. What she receives, though paltry, is CA$1400 a month. But that’s no paltry sum if converted into the current exchange rate. That’s four times bigger than her Philippine salary as Teacher III. And she has already fully paid the loan and other expenses she had incurred in going to Canada and has started sending money back home to an expectant family in only her first six months of work. Jona is one of 11 million OFWs worldwide. and the exodus goes on with about a million leaving the country each year. This includes an increasing number of skilled professionals and workers taking on unskilled jobs resulting in brain drain. This is particularly true in healthcare and education, like our Jona. There are medical practitioners in the Phililippines, especially those working in government hospitals in the provinces who undergo retraining to become RNs or LVNs whose services are very much in demand abroad, as are PTs, OTs, STs. Their annual salaries can easily exceed US$70,000.; Filipinos in America today find it easy to integrate themselves in mainstream American society because of their high education and speaking skills with a majority belonging to the middle or upper middle class. Filipino-Americans have the second highest median household income ($65,000) exceed-

continued on page 23

of the Marcos dictatorship. On February 22, 1986, Marcos’ key allies, Defense Secretary Juan Ponce Enrile and Armed Forces Vice Chief of Staff Fidel V. Ramos staged a revolt which mushroomed into a popular uprising -- “people power” -- against the Marcos regime. On February 25, 1986, Cory Aquino was sworn in as president by Supreme Court Associate Justice Claudio Teehankee at the Club Filipino in San Juan. On that same day, Marcos was also sworn in as president at the Malacanang Palace. However, by nightfall, Marcos fled to exile in Hawaii in a US military plane. I saw Cory when she visited San Francisco in September 1986 on her way to address the US Congress. The Fil-Am community of the Bay Area held a reception for Cory at the cavernous Moscone Center in San Francisco. It was an emotional visit for Cory because it was

continued on page 23

August 20, 2009

By Rodney J. Jaleco

Never Happened!

Democrats have accused their Republican rivals of belonging to “the party of no”. They say the GOP’s job is to say no to everything President Obama proposes. In a way, that reminds me of the Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo administration. When accused of entering a shady deal in China, the President’s spokesmen quickly declared, “Never happened!” When militant groups accused the President of building a “culture of impunity” in the unsolved murders of churchmen, union leaders, peasant organizers, journalists, her defenders snapped back, “never happened!” And now that a New York gossip column suggested our President blew almost a million pesos to wine and dine her entourage, I hear that familiar refrain again, “never happened!” I’ve often heard about how the Arroyo administration seemed to be operating in a state of denial. I didn’t believe it, because how can an entire government not see, not hear or not feel the reality around them?

I thought it was such a Herculean task, it couldn’t be possible. That is, until President Arroyo and her official and unofficial party breezed into town. Her plane arrived late at Andrews Air Base. The crowd at the historic Willard Hotel (that’s where the word “lobbyist” was coined, referring to people currying favors from the White House and Congress), were told the welcome party would start at 8. Guests came resplendent in barong tagalogs and gowns. They reportedly belonged to PHILUSA. First time I heard about this group, and I’ve been reporting from here for over three years. But I guess there’s always a first time. I could understand why many Fil-Am leaders, pillars of the community – people everyone counted to get important Fil-Am projects going – were not invited. They’ve been talking against President Arroyo for what seemed forever. That’s alright, they told me. The President didn’t like to hear criticism; she was in DC for a photo-op with President Obama at the White House. We can always just stay in the streets, they added.

CAMPUS JOURNAL By Angelo Miguel M. Calabio

Down and out

When President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo and her trusted staff first mapped out the designs of her historic meeting with new United States President Barack Obama, the least they expected to get out of it was a triumphant return for an embattled Chief Executive. However, much like most of her plans nowadays, events just seem to turn against the President and to say the least, she was once again the biggest loser in the latest turn of events. Earning a lot of praise from President Obama, and even having the honor of being named the United States’ special envoy in Asia, Mrs. Arroyo must have expected at least a happy return to the country after clocking in thousands of miles in a taxing round-trip away from home. However, what she came home to was a nation grieving the death of iconic former President Corazon Aquino, and a people too preoccupied with grief to even take a quick glimpse at the fruits of her labor from far away. A mournful people and a grieving nation, the sight that Mrs. Arroyo endured on a truly nightmare return. Of course, the events that unfolded during that interlude were uncontrollable. Although Mrs. Aquino was suffering from colon cancer for months, nobody really expected her passing on that fateful date of August 1st. Before the sad news from the Makati Medical

Center hit the airwaves of national radio and television, the President’s state visit to the US was dominating the headlines. After all, Arroyo was the first leader from a South East Asian country to be invited by Obama to the White House. For a couple of days, Pres. Arroyo basked in the glory as Obama heaped praise on her Filipina counterpart, that is of course, until news of a national tragedy stole the headlines. On a soggy and wet Saturday morning, the Filipino nation woke up to the sad news of Mrs. Aquino’s death and the tears of a mourning people poured for a fallen hero. Attention immediately switched and the limelight quickly shifted from Washington to the grieving streets here at home. Distraught and clearly demoralized, a visibly drained Mrs. Arroyo appeared on national television and declared ten days of national mourning and declared August 5, the day of Mrs. Aquino’s burial, a national holiday. The President also extended her deepest condolences to the Aquino family and promised to be one with the nation in honoring a modern-day freedom fighter. But beneath the mournful face of the President laid a vision shattered by the stunning turn of events. Having the US trip as her final ace to save her tainted legacy,

VISA PRIORITY DATES FOR THE PHILIPPINES

The Willard crowd came complete with banners, extolling President Arroyo’s meeting with President Obama as the height of RP-US relations. The signs were carried by a group that seemed to follow President Arroyo around in her public engagements (still carrying their banners of course). I believe they were the President’s “pala”, as in “taga-palakpak”...who are very close cousins of the “hakot”. Actually, their presence may have saved Filipino taxpayers untold dollars. The appointment with Obama was a working visit, so the US was not picking any of the tab for the visit. Someone told me the Arroyo party tried to book rooms at the plush Four Seasons Hotel in Georgetown but they didn’t have enough rooms, so they settled for less pricey Willard and adjacent hotels (possibly saving Juan dela Cruz as much as $200 a night per room), to house some members of the Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Fans Club USA.

continued on page 23 the sudden passing of former Pres. Aquino may have drilled the final nail into the coffin of Pres. Arroyo’s dreams of extending her tenure in power through a Constituent Assembly (Con-ass). The revival of the historic “Cory magic” has seen the opposition rejuvenated with much vigor and renewed public support, assuring that the population would be united more than ever in opposing any move to extend PGMA’s term in office. In fact, with the 2010 national elections looming in the horizon, the affection and support that the nation showed for the late Mrs. Aquino may well have inspired the opposition to have a real go at the formidable political machinery of the incumbent administration. Add to that, with the government coming under fire for its poor handling of the Cory affairs before and after her death, it is without a doubt that public sympathy has shifted to the side of the Aquinos, a known supporter of the opposition. To say the least, the administration is facing anxious months in the countdown to election day. Now more than ever, the wheels on the controversial Con-ass seem to have finally come off and both sides are preparing for a long-drawn battle in the May 2010 polls. As for Mrs. Arroyo, the only option seems to be making the most out of her remaining months in office. Although she remains adamant that she won’t be a “lameduck” President, all signs are pointing to her going out quietly, truly, after a hard-fought battle to save her legacy or to even extend her term, it now seems that PGMA is finally down and out.

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AUGUST 2009 FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCES

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*The cut-off dates for the Employment Third and Third preference “Other Worker” categories were held and then retrogressed in an effort to bring demand within the average monthly usage targets and the overall annual numerical limits. Despite these efforts, the amount of demand received from Citizenship and Immigration Services Offices for adjustment of status cases with priority dates that were significantly earlier than the established cut-off dates remained extremely high. As a result, these annual limits have been reached and both categories have become “Unavailable.” Visa availability in these categories will resume in October, 2009, the first month of the new fiscal year. Visa availability in these categories will resume in October, 2009, the first month of the new fiscal year.

INK SPOTS FROM MANILA By E.P. Dakanay, Jr.

Cory and Gloria’s Contrasting Legacies

After a seven-day absence for a 45-five minute audience with U.S. President Obama, Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (GMA) returned with the dubious honor of having been appointed the U.S. president’s coordinator for something in South East Asia. This must be Pres. Obama’s affirmation that GMA is on the “right side of history” and the historic 45-five minute encounter reaffirms the two nations’ cherished century-old fraternal bonds. Her meeting occurring on the same day as Pres. Obama’s hosting of a beer session between Harvard professor Gates and Cambridge police sergeant Crowley—to calm emotions over an incident with racial undertones that preoccupied media—GMA’s presence in the U.S. capital was hardly noticed by the public except for her statement relating to former president Cory Aquino whose passing during her absence was substantially reported in the U.S. press. GMA came home to a mourning nation on the day of the former president’s interment. It must have been uneasy moments of dilemma for GMA’s propagandists to decide on how she may extend condolences considering ex-president Cory Aquino had harsh words of rebuke for her abuse of her power and the excesses of her administration. GMA finally made a 10-minute call at the Manila Cathedral where Mrs. Aquino

was laid in state, and shared moments of pained cordiality with the latter’s son, Senator Noynoy Aquino. Cory most probably did not entertain personal enmity against her, but GMA’s problem is their personae are perceived to clash violently in many important areas of leadership. Where when Pres. Cory exuded sincerity and forthrightness in her every pronouncement, GMA talks with a forked tongue or makes guarded statements (via a variety of spokesmen) that may be twisted in many deceptive ways. Cory placed a high premium on the public’s understanding of her initiatives, while GMA shuns public opinion if it runs counter her views (or interest?). Where Cory’s administration was never accused of clandestine negotiations that undermined the nation’s interest, the hallmark of GMA’s rule is covert deals shielded no less by executive prerogatives to consummate plunder. The unquestioned legacy of Cory Aquino is the restoration of democratic processes and the rule of law which the Marcos dictatorship stifled to lay the country open to plunder and his perpetual rule. Cory refused to run for a second presidential term to honor the spirit of the new Constitution that limited

continued on page 21

August 20, 2009

Health@Heart By Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS

The bitter controversy What is Ampalaya?

The media blitz of infomercials by the makers of these “food supplements,” which includes anecdotal testimonials of apparently paid “users” (all of which are medically unacceptable, and invalid as reliable scientific data), has resulted in what literally is a massive financial fraud, but one which a segment of the ignorant public takes as gospels of truth. Modern Therapy is Safest Today, thanks to advances in modern therapeutics and technology, there are proven, effective and safe treatment regimens for diabetes. This evidence- and outcome-based therapy has allowed diabetics around the world to live healthier, more comfortable, happier, and more productive lives. Unless a scientifically proven superior alternative form of treatment comes along, herbal or otherwise, our current conventional management for diabetes mellitus is still the best, the safest.

Circumventing the Law

Some patients have abandoned the conventional medications prescribed by their physicians and have opted to take the ampalaya preparations instead. The Philippine Diabetic Association, the Philippine Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism, the Institute for Studies on Diabetes Foundation and the Philippine Center for Diabetes Education have reported that patients who totally relied on these ampalaya tea and pills alone have developed serious complications, like chronic renal failure, disorientation, hypertension, severe dehydration, edema (swelling), elevated blood sugar and congestive heart failure, even coma and death. There is no convincing evidence

Commonly called Bitter Melon or Bitter Gourd and known scientifically as Momordica charantia, ampalaya is a very popular vegetable in Asia. This vegetable is green, tubular in shape, has a characteristic deep tortuous wrinkles or ruffles all over its skin, and has a distinctively “addicting” bitter taste. Ampalaya has been known to lower blood sugar to a degree, but not enough to be effective alone as a treatment for diabetes. In spite of this, however, some apparently unscrupulous companies have been marketing ampalaya tea and capsules, etc., and selling them to the unsuspecting public as “food supplements good for diabetics.” This claim is very dangerous and could be deadly for the some diabetics. There are more than 300,000 Filipinos who suffer from Diabetes Mellitus. In the United States, there are about 16 million diabetics and about 1800 new cases are diagnosed each year. To be within the law, or to navigate within its boundary, these clever firms who want to make big bucks in this multi-billion dollar industry, label their products as “food supplements.” The reason for this is because, for a substance to be approved as a drug, it has to go through a most stringent investigation and meet very strict criteria enforced by the US-FDA or BFAD. It is a lot easier to hide behind the classification “food supplements” and market the various herbals as “good for” certain diseases, like diabetes, heart attack, or even cancer. In general, the claims are medically false, unfounded, and ludicrous, not to mention dangerous to health.

The Danger

todate that ampalaya tea and pills are effective and safe, alone and in themselves, for the treatment of diabetes, much less, provide a cure. The Philippine Department of Health circular 168-A in 1995 was, thank God, finally reversed 8 years later, following some catastrophes involving diabetic patients who had abandoned their prescription drugs and relied only on the ampalaya “food supplements.” This sad situation could have been prevented had the DOH been more proactive and aggressive in its actions against all these scams. “Ampalaya...is not intended to treat, prevent, mitigate, cure or diagnose (diabetes) disease,” said Leticia B. Gutierrez, Director of the Philippine Bureau of Food and Drugs (BPAD) in her position paper released August 29, 2003. Health Secretary Manuel Dayrit on June 23rd issued Circular 196-A series of 2003 where he “strongly advised all concerned to cease, desist and discontinue any endorsement ampalaya an alternative treatment for diabetes mellitus.” I could not agree more with those two pronouncements, albeit their release was much delayed than what could be anticipated. We must always remember that anecdotes and paid testimonials are worthless. Just about anybody will be willing to say just about anything for a fee. Valid scientific studies and clinical confirmations are needed before any substance should be allowed to be sold to the public, if we are to protect the health, safety and welfare of the people. I am not averse to diabetics eating ampalaya, since this is a common household food item proven to be safe to eat, anyway. Eating ampalaya on top of taking prescription drug(s) for diabetes may even be beneficial to the patient. But certainly, ampalaya alone and in itself (as food item, or as potion or capsule being sold today) is not adequate as a treatment for diabetes. In fact, this would be downright dangerous. Email: [email protected]

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H P O Q U I P O Q U I I B N N

T O S I M B A L I K T A D E I

M E L A D L A N I D W P W N D

B I K Q C V P N P I D T U G A

B I K Q C V P N P I D T U G A

X U D N S A R A B A S A B I U

W A G N B X I G X C G A R D R

H P O Q U I P O Q U I I B N N

W A G N B X I G X C G A R D R

P R T S I S Q G G L L N N D W

W H C X M X W I K I A I Z D Z

X O G A R C N G X G C N I E D

X O G A R C N G X G C N I E D

X B N E W S X V K D U P Y V P

S Q J N D B A A P L M L D N A

T O S I M B A L I K T A D E I

S Q J N D B A A P L M L D N A

C E T N E O K N C H I J I G R

C E T N E O K N C H I J I G R

J Y S C L T B I B Q B F B O A

M E L A D L A N I D W P W N D

J Y S C L T B I B Q B F B O A

K W S Q O U E S O H Y X U X A

K W S Q O U E S O H Y X U X A

L Z G T L D T A U K O Y D K N

X U D N S A R A B A S A B I U

L Z G T L D T A U K O Y D K N

11

P R T S I S Q G G L L N N D W

2 8 3 4 1 7 9 5 6

10

W H C X M X W I K I A I Z D Z

1 6 5 9 8 2 3 7 4

56 33

23 9

7 9 4 5 6 3 2 1 8

8

6 3 8 1 7 4 5 9 2

7

4 7 9 2 5 8 6 3 1

E R S E A T O M

6

5 1 2 6 3 9 8 4 7

S E E D Y O G A

55

48 32 28

22

9

16 5

3 2 7 8 4 5 1 6 9

E T H E R

R E A C T

U N P O P U L A R

T E S T A

60 54 47

42

27

13

19 4

8 5 1 7 9 6 4 2 3

A B B A S

U R D U

F L A I R

67

59 46 41 37 31

26

12

X B N E W S X V K D U P Y V P

3 5 1 2 9 6 2 8 5 2 7 8 2 4 5 5 9 8 4 3 4 9 2 6 4 9 7

2 1 7 8

51

45

40

36 3

9 4 6 3 2 1 7 8 5

18 S E E K

I A M B I

73 66

R O I N C O A O N T A A T L A L A N O G O L A A D R D G K A S E A N

72 65

T W E R P H O M E R A Y K U B O L D O O M A B A W A N G E R E G O D E R M M O I N D O L P A T O N A R A N I S I N N G M O O E E S U D T S

71

64

P A W N S H O P S

70

63

P L E A

69 62 58

53 50 44

39 35

30 25

21 18 15 2

M A T E

68 61 57

52 49 43 38 34

29 24 20 17 14 1

August 20, 2009

LIBANGAN

August 20, 2009

THE AMERICAN DREAM

IN HIS PRAISE

By Mya Talavera CBR GRI

By Hermie Climaco

The Filipino Dream

“I was so glad I came to the forum. Many of Gawad Kalinga’s objectives were exactly the same things I have been doing in my own silent way and out of my modest personal resources,” declares Atty. Ric Marasigan, one of the community’s most respected lawyers in an email to this author referring to the first GK public open forum held on July 26, 2009 in Oxon Hill . The first in the DC area, the forum’s objective was to make the community aware of the GK 2024 Vision: a 21-year timeline to end the poverty of five million Filipinos and build a First World Philippines. The GK Vision 2024 was unveiled at the First Global Summit in Boston , Massachusetts last month. In an interview published on PhilStar.com, Tony Meloto, GK founding father said “Our target is to take the Philippines out of the third-world status by 2024. We want to share the GK way with like-minded global citizens to help expand our work.” Indeed, like-minded Fil-Ams under the leadership of GK Regional Director, Ben Dichoso, Jr. grouped together to proclaim and to bring to the Washington DC area the GK Vision 2024. Panelists, Nap Curameng, Armand Erpe, Rico Villaroman and Ben Dichoso, Jr. took turns in speaking about GK’s objectives, as well as answering questions fielded in by some people in the audience. This author who is a GK100

served as the program emcee and moderator. I spoke about proclaiming the dream, “By declaring the vision to the whole world, we set ourselves on a path to see it realized. Yes, it seems impossible. But if we are to stay in our faith, that faith will shower us with courage, boldness, persistence and patience. It’s a long and winding road to 2024.” I said, feeling every word. Another speaker, Lina Neurick of Baltimore shared her own personal experience with GK., “ ANCOP (Answering the Cry of the Poor) is an opportunity for the Filipinos to rebuild the Philippines back to where it was in the first place and where it should be. We already know that most of our politicians are corrupt and they are a hopeless cause. That is why GK is the way. Building our nation from the ground up. Whether you are rich or poor, schooled or not, we all need to do this to restore respect for ourselves. We have lost our national pride.” Neurick continued, “So let us protect what GK stands for by not letting anyone corrupt it due to greed and power-hungry individuals.” Guest speaker, Philippine Embassy cultural attaché and viceconsul, Robert Borje shared his GK volunteer days while still in

BOX SCORE By Angelo Miguel Calabio

No excuses!

Having big smiles on their faces while being blown out of water by opponents they used to dominate and destroy, the disastrous performance of the highly-touted Powerade Tem Pilipinas in the recentlyconcluded William Jones Cup in Taiwan has truly baffled a lot of basketball analysts and more importantly, severely disappointed millions of Filipino hardcourt aficionados both here and abroad. Earmarking the tournament as the final tune-up for the real deal, the Philippines’ latest attempt to make an impact in the FIBA-Asia tournament, that will be held in China this August, and qualify for the upcoming World Basketball Championships, the Philippine team hardly look like a threat. Composed of a bunch of local basketball all-stars, including former MVP’s Asi Taulava, James Yap, Willie Miller and Jay-Jay Helterbrand, the highly-rated local team was nothing short of dismal during their 8-game set, finishing the tournament, which the country famously won in 1998, with a miserable 2-6 win-loss record.

continued on page 21

God and those in Authority

As I was groping around - again - for a topic to write about in this column, I turned my thoughts to the two significant events that occurred recently: the visit of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to Washington DC in view of her July 30th meeting with US President Barack Obama and the death of former Philippine President Corazon Aquino on August 1st. What was so obvious in the above paragraph? Want to guess? Surely, you all guessed it right. All three names mentioned were leaders. Not just ordinary leaders. But top leaders. Barack Obama. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. Corazon Aquino. All Presidents– of the United States and of the Philippines. So, this column is going to be about Leaders especially about submitting to our Leaders. The Bible said, “Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake; whether it be the king as supreme or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers . . .” (1 Peter 2:13, 14). What God really is telling us to do from the above Bible passage is to honor our leaders. Perhaps, we do not like some of the leaders that we have. Perhaps, we do not like the President that we have. But no matter how much we dislike our President or any other government official for that matter, even

To say the least, Team Pilipinas looked like a group of strangers, disjointed and badly disorganized, obviously lacking leadership and team chemistry. Quite literally, the Filipino superstars looked clueless and helpless as they were destroyed by the new powerhouse teams in the region, Jordan, Iran, Lebanon and Korea. Even teams that observers expected them to steamroll, Japan and Chinese Taipei-A, managed to squeeze their way past the Filipino nationals. Kazakhstan and Chinese Taipei-B, the two weakest teams in the tournament, fell only awfully short of dealing the hapless Filipinos further beatings. In truth, the Philippine team should consider itself lucky to finish the tournament with their 2 irrelevant wins. Through all the fiasco, national coach Yeng Guiao stood silently in the bench, obviously running a lot of things in his mind that very few of us understand. The flaws of the most recent national team were obviously on display, and throughout the tournament, the coaching staff did not seem to bother making adjustments. Quite evidently, the team lacked mobile big men and shooters, perhaps the most important things you need to win games in the international stage. Throughout the tournament, the Philippine team was badly one-dimensional, always looking to attack off the dribble and force its way through

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our work managers and supervisors, God is telling us that He wants us to respect and honor them. I have come across a website that openly attacks the President of the Philippines. Every word uttered against the President was far too below the belt. As said in the vernacular, “di makain ng aso.” In English, it means that “even the dogs cannot swallow the words that came out from their mouths.” It really gives me a chill reading their sharp words. What has the Bible say about speaking? “. . . I say to you that for every idle word men may speak, they will give account of it on the day of judgment. For by your words, you will be justified and by your words you will be condemned,” (Matthew 12:34b, 36, 37). Going back to dishonoring a President, people who cannot respect and honor a President of a country cannot surely respect and honor God, too. To quote Os Hillman, author of Today God Is First (TGIF), “If we find it difficult to live under the authorities in our

life, we’ll usually find it difficult to submit to the will of God in our lives, too. Rebellion is reflected in our unwillingness to live under the authority placed over us. We may not have respect for the person who is President of the United States, but we are still to honor and respect the position the presidency represents and we are to recognize that God has placed him in authority over us. As long as we are not asked to violate a biblical commandment, we must recognize those in authority as God-given and that He is going to work through them on our behalf.” I would say the same for our own President. We may dislike President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, but we are to honor and respect the position that her presidency represents and we are to recognize that God has placed her in authority over us. Obviously, our rebelliousness as human beings is reflected in our unwillingness to live under the authority placed over us. Up to this day, man’s rebelliousness against God continues incessantly as reflected in our greater tendency to disrespect and dishonor those who are in authority over us, even those holding positions as high as President of a country.

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the hoop, a ploy that was impossible against the gigantic big men of the other countries. In addition, while the other teams’ shooters burned the Philippines from the three-point line, the Filipino nationals shot bricks from downtown. Without inside presence and outside shooting, it is impossible to win any basketball game, and it was the exact case for the clueless Filipinos. For the first time in our proud basketball

history, the Philippine team was massacred twice in a single tournament, as Middle East titans Jordan and Iran made the PBA superstars look worse than college amateurs. In addition, traditional powers Korea and Lebanon proved to be a notch higher than our current level and just to rub salt into the wound, the Taiwanese and Japanese joined

continued on page 21

TRAVEL & CULTURE Unlike most countries all over the globe, the Philippines is spoiled with an overwhelming number of uniquely beautiful tourist destinations. White sand beaches, mystic islands, perfectly-shaped mountains, you name them all and the Pearl of the Orient has them all. This is why tourism has been the fastest growing industry here in country. Around the archipelago, tourists have been flocking to the hotspots of world-class Filipino tourism, and the island of Guimaras is no exception. Situated prettily in the island group of Visayas, Guimaras is truly one of the few paradise islands here in the Philippines. Although not as popular as the more

Guimaras, as good as it gets

renowned islands of Boracay and Puerto Galera, Guimaras provides tourists with a worthwhile alternative to the heavily populated and commercialized island paradises. For one, this Visayan island has all the features that any visitor would want in a place: white sand, trees, clusters of rainforest, birds, beach, corals, sea, underwater marine life, boating, island hopping, native sailing, abundant nature and butterflies. It may not have the glamour and publicity of its more popular counterparts but the priceless feature that Guimaras could offer is privacy, quiet peace while enjoying the luxuries of Filipino hospitality as well as world-class amenities and accommodations.

photo source: www.islandparadisephilippines.

August 20, 2009

To say the least, Guimaras is the perfect paradise island. An island that gives you a quiet tropical atmosphere, along with the romantic south sea setting that very few spots in the world could give, truly an embodiment of a lovely and genuine Philippine island. Guimaras is the perfect place to fulfill your wildest dreams, to play all the games you have ever wished, to tirelessly relax, to swim in clean and placid waters, to taste the good local cuisine, to simply walk around the relatively unexplored surroundings and to snorkel underwater while observing the wide array of marine life living on its pristine waters. These qualities are the exact reason why Guimaras has been attracting tourists from all over the globe, even after a disastrous oil spill several years back that threatened to kill its marine life and jeopardize the population’s major sources of livelihood. In fact, the island province has been posting record figures in terms of tourist arrivals, proving that slowly but surely, Guimaras is starting to make a name for itself both locally and internationally. The island province’s province has also caught the eyes of investors, as money starts to be poured into Guimaras, with the aim of maximizing its potential of being a

top-class tourist draw for the country. The La Puerta El Paraiso and Lombija Wildlife are just a couple of new additions to the island’s growing inventory of A-class beach resorts and tourist destinations, and the influx of money into Guimaras is not showing any signs of stopping. Foreign tourists have particularly been receptive to the idea of spending their hard-earned cash in a Guimaras vacation package. The temperate climate of the island is an added plus, as Americans and Europeans continually for the tropical sun in their vacation destinations. Add to that, a potential visitor to this island should never miss the chance of tasting Guimaras’ worldfamous mangoes, which are freely available around the little island paradise. Although not as famous as its renowned counterparts, the mystic beauty of Guimaras would surely continue to allure countless tour-

ists to its pristine shores. For those seeking something new, this island paradise would surely have it all. From adventure to relaxation, the little island of Guimaras would be a perfect choice and a real bang for your buck.

parts here in the Philippines. Being one of the frontrunners in the local furniture market, BLIMS has pioneered a number of innovations in most of the industry’s fronts to provide consumers with products of the highest quality. Automatic Centre’s furniture division takes pride in revolutionizing the furniture industry by offering many firsts. One of BLIMS’ most important breakthroughs is launching the concept of Ready-to-Use (RTU) and Ready-to-Deliver (RTD) furniture, which is now an industry standard in convenience and practicality. They were also the first to launch a series of annual exhibits supported by extensive advertising campaigns, now one of the industry’s most anticipated events, and truly set the bar for trend forecasts and latest designs. With 13 luxurious showrooms conveniently located in Metro Manila, Metro Cebu and other key cities, BLIMS offers customers with a wide array of choices when it comes to furniture pieces that would fit their respective budgets and preferences. Each branch offers a complete variety of reasonably priced furniture, categorized into distinct collections. Living Space for choices in living and dining spaces, Leather Gallery for that elegant and sophisticated look, Sleepshop for comfortable and luxurious pieces fit for

anyone’s bedroom, Recliners and Loungers for relaxation, Accessories for highlighting the best pieces in any room and the innovative Office World, which gives any office space that power look. The furniture line describes their branches as “setting-friendly,” meaning one can shop for furniture and furnishings that can complement and fit any lifestyle environment. Add to that, as a testament to BLIMS’ total commitment to its customers, complimentary design assistance by in-house professional designers is offered to all customers. Thus, customers would have the best choices, as well as the best people alongside to help them make the perfect choice for their furniture. Although a clear leader in the

local furniture industry, BLIMS is refusing to entertain any thought of complacency, as it continues to shop the world for the latest and most elegant collections of furniture. Truly, the long and hard years of striving hard to make an impact during its early days are long gone, as the hardwork and perseverance of the people behind BLIMS has translated into credible, broad market acceptance and customer loyalty. With uplifting the living standard of Filipinos as its enduring philosophy, BLIMS Fine Furniture has gone from strength to strength, and the local furniture industry’s pioneer continues to press on as the market leader and trendsetter in defining the lifestyles of Filipino homes and offices.

World-class Filipino furniture at BLIMS

When it comes to innovative, stylistic and trendy fine furniture, very few people would put Philippine-made pieces into the top-class category, given the fact that American and European-made pieces are the more renowned brands. However, taking this fact as a challenge, one local company ventured into unchartered territory to tackle some formidable odds. Armed with bold ideas and lofty ambitions, BLIMS Fine Furniture has gradually established itself in both the local and international markets, making a name for itself with fine furniture of superior quality.

Francis M.

Being the furniture division of Automatic Appliances Inc. (Automatic Centre), one of the country’s biggest companies and a well-respected local appliance authority since 1948, BLIMS Fine Furniture prides itself as being the premiere furniture retail chain in the country. With extensive experience in furniture marketing, strict choice of merchandise, a good reputation for quality products and services, and a customer-oriented philosophy that extends to every facet of company operations, BLIMS stands head and shoulders above many of its local and even international counter-

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August 20, 2009 Box score... from p. 19

the Filipino butchering party. The people behind the Powerade Team Pilipinas could make all the lame excuses in the book but the bottom-line is this national team was nothing short of an utter disgrace. Never have we seen such a talented group play so gutlessly

Ink spots... from p. 16

her to one, even as some of her supporters would find technicalities to circumvent this. She may have not been able to uproot the web of corruption entrenched in the bureaucracy, but she has never been suspected of consenting to, much less being a part of shady arrangements that compromised the interest of the government. Serious steps to stem corruption and prosecute malefactors (most prominent were Marcos and cronies) were taken in her time. She cannot be faulted if this floundered upon her departure from office and a reinvigorated strain of virulent social malaise now confronts us. In recent years, mounting evidences of unbridled corruption and relentless assault on the integrity of cherished democratic institutions have constrained Cory to come out more vocally on the ills of GMA’s governance that imperil her precious legacy. Until recently she has been dismissed in GMA’s circles as a spent political force not to be heeded. The passion and fervor in their expression of esteem and affection for Cory by the multitudes that attended the prayer gatherings and finally her funeral march may now have shaken GMA and her lackeys to their senses that they may not trifle with Cory’s enduring legacy. We can look forward to her parting gift to the nation: clean election in 2010, and the demise of that threat to the Constitution derisively called “cha-cha.” We might yet see the impeachment of Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez if the tug of conscience will be strong enough in a sufficient number of congressmen, but that may be asking too much. The vast majority of Cory’s mourners were simple folks who understand little of the complexity of running the government, but they instinctively are of the conviction that she has done her best to protect their interest and

while flying the country’s colors. If this humiliation is some kind of crazy tactic to deceive opponents in the upcoming FIBA-Asia, it better work. For if not, the said stars should prepare themselves for a grand public crucifixion on their return. labored for their welfare. A few shedding genuine tears were workers for government in modest roles or in exalted responsible positions, in Cory’s time and now, who take pride in the knowledge they meet her standard for public service. Another few shedding crocodile tears, again public servants in modest roles or positions of responsibility and power who have violated her code of dedicated public service, mocked her memory by their mere presence. The late president Ferdinand Marcos’ family condoled with Cory’s children, even as they have yet to make restitution and apology for the harm he inflicted upon the Filipino nation. Three enlisted men of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and one of the Philippine National Police, posted honor guards each at the four corners of Cory’s casket on the flatbed truck that took her from the Manila Cathedral to the Memorial Park in Parañaque, stood ramrod straight and immobile in the nine-hour slow journey, unflinching under the alternating rain and sunshine, consuming neither food nor drink, nor leaving post for call of nature. This display of discipline and stamina has put the public in awe of the rank and file soldiers of our armed services, raising several notches the esteem of our people for their organizations that have been debased by GMA’s “Garci” and “Euro” generals. Understandably absent from Cory’s funeral were the personalities involved in the coup d’ etat attempts that threatened the stability of her administration and disrupted the country’s economic recovery during her term. That experience of the nation (repeated during GMA’s term in the Oakwood Hotel incident) with adventurists in the armed services should be stern warning against involvement of armed services personalities in our internal political turmoil.

President’s dinner... from p. 1 among celebrities, Bobby Vans is more egalitarian. “She was the first president to eat here,” the manager told this reporter (the staff at Bobby Vans Steakhouse agreed to answer our questions on condition their names are not published). Not that they haven’t had any president sample their well-known steaks. If Mrs. Arroyo was the first president to dine at their 15th St. NW restaurant, President Obama had taken lunch at another Bobby Vans restaurant along New York Ave. But their more frequent patrons are federal workers in nearby offices, including the White House about half a block away. The staff revealed that Mrs. Arroyo had filet mignon, one of the house specialties. She declined the wine, but her companions – composed of Cabinet members and several congressmen – reportedly took liberties with the restaurant’s cellar. Critics again questioned why there were so many people in the President’s entourage. The staff said, however, the number could have been closer to a hundred with the President’s Secret Service contingent and own personal bodyguards, who passed on the dinner because they were on duty. The Bobby Vans staff remember the Philippine president very well because they said she left a very handsome tip. Another source said the president’s party was so full after the dinner, they decided to walk back to their rooms at the Willard Hotel, two blocks away.

“HAVE THEY NO SHAME?”

After the storm broke, two congressmen in the President’s party

American Dream.. from p. 19 the Philippines years ago. He also took the opportunity to thank everyone for helping our motherland through GK. Another guest speaker, Jon Melegrito, spoke on behalf of the National Federation of Filipino American Associations (NAFFAA). He commended GK’s mission to build 70,000 villages in the Philippines by 2024. “The “can do” spirit in the community hall was most inspiring,” he said. After the program, Nap Curameng was so delighted to add Karen Rogers to the GK100 roster. Of course, we all applauded the patriotic gesture of Ed Atienza. He donated his family owned 4-acre

land in Pampanga through PABA (Phil. American Bar Association), GK’s newest partner. “The mellow & sincere demeanor of GK people are positive attributes that will go a long way in gaining more adherents and advocates for GK. That is one of the lasting impressions I readily got at the seminar about the people representing GK. I am now figuring out, without casting aside my ongoing scholarship and microfinance projects for the poor back home, how I can add and contribute to GK,“ Atty Ric Marasigan added. “Thank you for the chance to meet and hear more about GK.”

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came out - one reluctantly - to declare they paid for the expensive dinners. Press Secretary Cerge Remonde outed Leyte Rep. Martin Romualdez, a nephew of former First Lady Imelda Marcos, who paid for the Le Cirque dinner. However, Romualdez later clarified it was his brother Daniel, said to be a well-placed and celebrated architect in New York, who foot the bill. Romualdez, who it turns out, has been in almost all of President Arroyo’s foreign trips, had avoided the press since. Quezon Rep. Danilo Suarez was at least more forthcoming. He admitted paying for the tab at Bobby Vans, saying it was a wedding anniversary gift for President Arroyo and First Gentleman Mike Arroyo. Party list Reps. Walden Bello and Riza Hontiveros were skeptical. They asked the Philippine Ombudsman to investigate whether taxpayers’ money was used for the expensive dinners. “Have they no shame? Malacanang can not just dismiss these allegations as agitation propaganda,” they said. “We’d hope for some humility and honesty on the part of the President and her spokespersons. We detest the arrogance and utter lack of remorse being shown by this administration,” they averred. Catholic Bishop Deogracias Iniquez, a long-time critic of the President, said he was outraged that public funds were used. He said the lavish dinners was a “brazen disregard of what we are experiencing during this crisis”. Makati Mayor Jejomar Binay said the money spent at Le Cirque could have fed 3,000 Filipinos with three square meals. Even the President’s ally, Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago

– who was part of the delegation that went to Washington DC but did not join the expensive dinners, said it was “outlandish that people from a developing country should rack up a bill for P1 million”. “They dined like kings, not once but twice,” Bayan Secretary-General Renato Reyes declared.

LASHING OUT VS “IMMORAL MEDIA”

The frustration and exasperation spread quickly in the halls of Malacanang. Remonde declared he would stop answering questions about Le Cirque, even before the Bobby Vans story erupted. President Arroyo’s election lawyer Romulo Macalintal delivered a bombshell, apparently to try to regain the initiative in the debate over his client’s apparent gastronomic proclivities. He said media should not be talking about morals because media owners themselves should be questioned on the same issue. Macalintal was referring to the media outlets’ practice of accepting political advertisements which he claimed circumvented the election code. Political ads are only allowed during the prescribed campaign period. He also challenged the veracity of the reports that appeared in the New York Post. Center for Media Freedom and Responsibility Board trustee Vergel Santos said Macalintal was trying to divert the issue away from the original furor over President Arroyo’s expenses. “This government should be sensitive enough and prudent enough to know what they are getting into,” he averred. Malacanang then tried another tack. Deputy presidential spokesman Anthony Golez declared, “In their frenzy to score media points, these critics will go so far as to demean and debase the office of the Presidency itself.”

The Villars and Manuela Corp’s P345-M debt

By Aries Rufo

How deep is the financial well of 2010 presidential aspirant Senator Manuel Villar and his wife? While the P1.05 billion combined net worth reported in their 2008 Statement of Assets, Liabilities and Net Worth is an easy reference, a recent Supreme Court decision on the debts of a company they are associated with can surely make a dent on their wealth. A company owned by the family of Senator Villar’s wife—Las Pinas Rep. Cynthia Aguilar Villar—is fending off a Supreme Court order to pay back rentals to a firm in the amount of P344.825 million. Manuela Corp. is contesting a motion before a Las Pinas court to execute the High Court’s order, which was promulgated way back in September 2007. It argued that the property company is still undergoing rehabilitation, thus payment should be held in abeyance. In other words, the company is still financially bleeding. Doña Manuela Aguilar Riguera established Manuela Realty Development Corp. in 1972. It was later renamed as Manuela Corp. Doña Manuela is the grandmother of Las Piñas Rep. Cynthia A. Villar, the wife of 2010 presidential aspirant Sen. Manuel Villar. Rep. Cynthia’s family—the Aguilars and Rigueras—are not just engaged in local business but also in

local politics. Since 1988, most of the mayors of Las Piñas came from this family. Doña Manuela’s brother, Rosalino Riguera, was the mayor of Las Piñas from 1988-1992. He is also the chairman of Manuela Corp. He has the single biggest stake (27%) in the company, according to latest company submissions to the Securities and Exchange Commission. Rep. Cynthia’s mother, Lydia Aguilar, holds another 18%. She is also the company treasurer. How the Villars are involved in the settlement of the P345 million obligations of Manuela Corp. may either reduce the financial well of the richest and most liquid solons in the country, or raise ethical questions again. In-laws’ business On paper, there is no link between Sen. Villar and Manuela Corp., a mall developer and operator. Sen. Villar’s in-laws, the Aguilars, have been in the mall business for decades. Sen. Villar involved himself in the same industry, too, after he married Rep. Cynthia. His C&P Homes, which focused on affordable homes, became more profitable and high profile than Manuela. In the aftermath of the 1997 Asian financial crisis, which brought many property companies to their knees, Sen. Villar’s own businesses have already recovered (Read: The Senator is also a big businessman)

August 20, 2009

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but Manuela has not. In 2007, a follow on offering of listed Vista Land and Lifescapes Inc.—the new umbrella company of Sen. Villar’s family—raised some P20 billion in fresh funds from the stock market. Vista Land has been reporting double-digit growth rates in revenues every year. Manuela, however, is still stuck in rehabilitation. The perception of some is that Manuela was actually Villar’s. The senator’s not-so-subtle promotional billboard with overseas Filipino workers is prominently displayed in Starmall (previously named Manuela) along EDSA in Mandaluyong City. Villar also holds Christmas parties for the Senate press corps in Starmall. Senator Joker Arroyo previously highlighted the link between Villar and Manuela. When Villar was a recently minted House Speaker, then Makati Rep. Arroyo who lost the

race for the Speakership, accused Villar of violating ethical standards because of Manuela. Arroyo had said that a P1-billion loan by the Social Security System (SSS) and a P2-billion loan from Government Service Insurance System were granted to the ailing Manuela. To Arroyo, it was an indirect financial accommodation to Villar by the two government financing institutions. He noted that Manuela paid P150 million of the P3 billion loan to Capitol Bank, which used to be the banking arm of Sen. Villar’s property companies. (Read: Jamby dubs Villar as “grandfather of scam”) Newsbreak previously learned from a former top SSS official that the loan proceeds were not released after word about it leaked out. Nonetheless, top officials of C&P Homes—Villar’s own companies— were actively involved in how the loans of his in-law’s bleeding com-

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August 20, 2009 Perry Scope...from p. 15

in an apartment in suburban Daly City that Ninoy plotted his return to the Philippines. At the packed Moscone Center, thousands came to see Cory. She stirred up the audience when she said, “You can take the Filipino away from the Philippines but not the Philippines from the Filipino.” It was a call to all Filipinos to be proud of their motherland once again. And they heeded her call. I saw Cory for the second time when I joined a group of about 12 Fil-Am community and political leaders who accompanied then Gov. George Deukmejian of California on an official visit to the Philippines in 1988. When we went to pay a courtesy call on Cory, I was surprised that she was not staying in the Malacanang Palace. She occupied a modest sized two-story building next to the palace as her office. She chose not to live in Malacanang and commuted daily to her

Cogito...from p. 15

with the proposed bill, I cannot swallow the “scare tactics” of the old “Bush era”. Surely this is not the right way to get things done. Health care reform is too personal for us to squander, which is why there is a need for a thorough debate on the issue for it is “my health care” and “your health care” that is in question and not that of the President’s or any other member of Congress. The President’s idea of universal health care is angelic and I salute him for his passion. However, we cannot go from “one million insured Americans today to 47 million tomorrow” because who will pay for the coverage of the “big chunk of the pie.” The universal health care reform should go through a gradual transition rather than cover everyone at the expense of “my wallet and yours.” As the bill proposed to tax “individual without coverage under a health benefits plan and impose a surtax on individual modified adjusted gross income exceeding $350,000”. There is no perfect health care reform bill as what the President recently declared in his town hall session in Colorado, I cannot agree more and I commend him for his transparency. However, there is clearly an urgent need for reforms and it should not be left to the next generation to debate on it. Nobody cares about whether it is liberal

Fast Food...from p. 15 ing that of the US general population. Asian Indians are a bit ahead at $68,000. Filipinos are the second largest American group in the US and they live a life as sophisticated as educated Americans. However, in other countries where Filipinos abound like those in the Middle East, there are serious issues they have to contend with. OFWs both blue collar and white collar face problems of illegal recruitement, discrimination, exploitation, long hours of work, limited

private residence. I understand that she never set foot in Malacanang. It is then understandable why Cory’s children refused to have their mother lie in state in Malacanang. After all, it was the place where Marcos stayed for 21 years. Last July 19, 2009, when Cory was near death, I was interviewed by Ging Reyes of ABS-CBN about my thoughts of Cory. After several minutes of talking about Cory’s legacy, Ging pointedly asked me, “And what do you think was the difference between Cory Aquino and Gloria Arroyo?” “Day and night,” I replied. Ging asked, “Why?” And I said, “Cory brought the brightest days in the lives of Filipinos while Gloria brought the darkest days in their lives.” Cory will be remembered for generations to come. She changed the constitution in 1987 to make sure that martial law will not happen again. “People power” was embodied into the constitution

and gave the armed forces the supreme duty to defend the people and the state. The 1987 constitution is sometimes referred to as “Cory’s constitution.” Yes, it was her baby maturing into adulthood. But some politicians want to change it for reasons that a large majority of Filipinos do not agree with. It did not then come as surprise that Cory made a wish not to change the 1987 constitution. With Cory’s passing, the move for charter change might eventually die. And each time somebody would attempt to change it in the future, I am pretty sure that the people would defend “Cory’s constitution,” our constitution. And Cory lives in our constitution. As Ninoy proved that the Filipino was worth dying for, Cory proved that the Filipino was worth living for. And she left a lasting legacy that freedom is worth fighting. In her memory, let’s live up to that legacy. ([email protected])

or conservative because it is “my health care” and “your health care” and hence the arguments should not be marred by political ideologies and competing cultural values of the North and South. Two controversial issues are dominating the debate on health care reform, i.e., the public option and end of life provisions. The public option should not be equated with socialized medicine because the provision simply provides for a choice that will compete with private insurance companies. This is not good for the private investors because it means less profit into their pockets, but I think this is consumer friendly and will help mostly the middle bracket of the economic pyramid. We cannot afford to worry about the bottom bracket of the pyramid for then we are no different to Evita Peron. On the other hand, the “end of life” provision should not be interpreted according to the colloquial mind of Sarah Palin because it is something that everyone of us should talk about even at the very young age of our existence. My aunt did not have some counseling so it was excruciatingly painful for me to decide for someone else’s future on earth. Discussion about the “end of life” provision on this bill will not only reduce the cost of health care but will help us and save our loved ones with the burden of how to determine the termination of life.

Another issue that is being misrepresented on this bill is abortion. The provision is clear that no federal money will be spent for abortion related cases. This kind of strategy by the members of the Southern bourgeois is a deviation from the main argument and is hereby misleading and exploitation of public trust. Again, this is not a perfect bill, but this is much better than nothing. Among the highlights of the bill are prohibiting pre-existing condition exclusions; providing for guaranteed coverage to all individuals and employers and automatic renewal of coverage; prohibiting premium variances, except for reasons of age, area or family enrollment; prohibiting rescission of health benefits coverage without clear and convincing evidence of fraud; prohibits an essential benefits package from imposing any annual or lifetime coverage limits; expand Medicaid eligibility for low-income individuals and families and establish a school-based health care program. I cannot agree enough with the health care reform bill, but weighing the benefits it brings to the community and the economy at large, then I can only say, “Mr. President, this is the best that we have today after more than 60 years, ever since President Harry S. Truman established the basic health insurance as a right for all Americans”. I can only be grateful for your passion and dedication.

food, or quartered in the doghouse. They suffer these indignities just so they could earn a mighty greenback to send home. These issues have become major concerns of our attaches in these countries. In many cases their pays are withheld and passports confiscated for flimsy reasons. Some domestic helpers, educated as they are as teachers, are physically or sexually abused, even murdered. There are sad stories of Filipino entertainers in countries like Japan who become sex slaves. They go abroad for a promise of domesic work or “social services”

only to be deceived into sex work. OFWs need to be remembered more often as people with feelings and not just providers. They need appreciation and assurances of love and should be sent letters bearing tonics of good news that can uplift and revitalize them in their lonely and stressful environs. What is devasting to the OFW, after a long spell of non-communication, is when she receives a letter with a list of things that need money for -- a roof that leaks, a drainage that clogs, a tuition fee to be paid, or someone is sick. Or when things become dysfunctional,

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Never Happened...from p. 16

I guess it was all worth it because President Arroyo showed no signs of jet lag, and seemed to be actually enjoying herself. Good for her. We were actually expecting everyone to be in a good mood the next morning. But a briefing for some of the 28 congressmen in the President’s entourage turned grey when a panel of experts told them about US concerns over corruption and human rights violations in the Philippines. Perhaps they didn’t hear the panelists say, it was their way of helping the Filipino lawmakers frame what they may want to tell their American counterparts when they went to Capitol Hill later that day. Speaker Prospero Nograles certainly earned his keep that day, energetically defending President Arroyo. Then, Manila Congressman Abante charged away, telling the panelists – composed of former

Basilan...from p. 1

ing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the MILF in Kuala Lampur, Malaysia in August last year. Military officials say some MILF guerillas are also either members or supporters of the ASG. There are also family alliances that complicate AFP efforts to finish off the ASG. The ASG feeds off Muslim discontent, especially the lack of adequate educational and employment opportunities as well as the growing Christian settlements in places they consider was their Islamic homeland. The AFP has its own headaches as well. Senator Rodolfo Biazon, a retired Marines general, said he was disturbed that the attacking soldiers didn’t have artillery or air support, even when it became evident the ASG was taking a heavy toll on the

top House and Senate members and diplomats with a history of involvement with Philippine concerns, including former US Ambassador and Director of National Intelligence John Negroponte – they didn’t know what they were talking about. Abante insisted that the Philippine military had better records of the murders, torture and kidnappings of the government’s political opponents. Abante’s defense sounded incriminatory to me...who else would have a better memory of things than the perpetrator? After all, if you were on the receiving end, chances are you’d probably been slapped silly from remembering anything. That is, if you were still alive. Nograles said all the accusations against President Arroyo were baseless, and whatever evidence was present could not stand up in court. That’s why the impeachment against her never prospered, he explained. soldiers. He is calling for a Senate investigation that will look into, among others, the military’s intelligence reports that apparently did not see that the ASG was laying a trap on the soldiers. Biazon said he will look into the military budget following President Arroyo’s directive. “You cannot just give the order if you don’t give the means to fight,” he said. The AFP is hard pressed to carry on a two-front counter-insurgency war with dwindling resources that’s led to growing gaps in mobility, communications, air support and even money to buy artillery shells. All these come at a time when President Arroyo is facing stiff criticism for excesses in the face of grinding poverty in the countrysides, which in the final analysis, is the root why soldiers need to keep fighting – and dying.

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like failure in school, a daughter running away, a son dropping out of school and had taken into drugs. Or worse when the kitty set aside for a rainy day is gambled or spent in drinking sprees by a husband, or for trivial unnecessary things. And the most devastating of all is when a loved one is rumored to have become unfaithful and had sought happpiness elsewhere that could shatter his life, inflict him painful heartburn, an emotional battle he has to endure for years or ever that may lead to serious consequences. It’s a case of “out of sight (touch)

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out of love.” It could be a situation in reverse. But by and large our OFWs have become movers of our country’s economy and have been honored by a grateful president who has set aside a day in December each year to welcome our Balikbayans at the airport in a perfunctory ceremony, have photo-ops with her and published in the papers with the caption “OUR HEROES.” And our reluctant heroes are grateful for the attention and recognition,, if only as a parody.

August 20, 2009