Volume XXVII No. 3 March 2009 www.filipinostar.org FAMAS launches Bb. Pilipinas ‘09 Montreal, March 18, 2009 - The Philippine Association of Montreal and Suburbs (FAMAS) invited the local media to a press conference to present its candidates vying for the title of Bb. Pilipinas Montreal 2009. All the candidates, ranging in age from 16 to 22, were asked a variety of questions, some are relevant to their personal career goals and values while others were hypothetical questions. Realistic questions were answered but those which sounded too remote to the candidates were hardly responded to. It was interesting to note what these young ladies want to pursue as a career. Candidate No. 1, Hana Jane Jamil, wants to be a nurisng assistant, Candidate No. 2, Diandra-Llana Cartago wants to be a Special Care Counsellor, Candidate No. 3, Kriza Lacsamana wants to be a physiotherapist, Candidate No. 4, Amanda C. de Guzman wants to be an airline pilot, Candidate No. 5, Mishael Pat de la Cruz wants to be a social worker, and Candidate No. 6, Lynn May Ann Miras, Bb. Pilipinas 2008, is flanked by the candidates for this year’s beauty pageant to select the 2009 Bb. Pilipinas- Llaguno wants to be a nurse. Montreal. From left are: Eva Lynn Llaguno, Mishael Pat de la Cruz, Amanda C. de Guzman, Kriza Lacsamana, Diandra-Illana Cartago, and Hana Jane Jamil. Photo taken after the press conference on March 18, 2009. See Page 4 FAMAS Pageant City signs partnership agreement

Contents

Editorial ...... p. 2

Cooperative News ...... p. 3

Tourism ...... p. 6

Community News ...... p. 10

Philippine Cuisine . . . . . p. 11

Filstar Photo Gallery . . . p. 12

Home Business ...... p. 14

Showbiz Gossip ...... p. 18

Mayor Gerald Tremblay poses with the signatories of the social economy partnership agreement which was held at City Hall on Classified Ads ...... p. 21 Wednesday, March 11, 2009. Madame Johanne Lavoie (right) is the Social Economy Commissioner (Commissaire à l’économie sociale, Direction du développement économique et urbain). (See article on Page 4 - Social Economy Development)

HIGHLIGHTS

6210 Decarie Boulevard, Montreal, QC (cor. Van Horne) Telephone: 514-731-8881 From head to toe ..... beauty and care! •Hair Cut, Set, Cclouring •Make up •Manicure Tom & Alicia Lee •Facial & Skin Treatment •Body Massage •Foot Spa/Pedicure www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star March 2009 Letter to the Editor Dear Editor, formulating peaceful and constructive EDITORIAL I picked up the November policies, for a peaceful world. 2008 issue of "The North American I wish he tackles the Afghan Spring brings hope and inspiration for renewal Filipino Star", from the March 8, 2008 matter in a more delicate and in-depth Lately, we have been talking do not all have backyards or land to Conference of, "The March 8 manner. about recession a lot and it makes us plant vegetables, they can still do it Coordination and Action Committee of I pray for his success! feel depressed and pessimistic. But the indoors, or in their balconies while Women of Diverse Origins". spring thaw can change our those who have even a small piece of I fully share your optimism and Jalal Hussain perspective, if we want to and make us land in their front or backyard can join you in hoping that President 450-443-1847 feel better. We can see signs of easily have a nice garden. Common Barack Hussein Obama will also 5910 Bergevin, renewal, new growth, revival of vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, inspire other world leaders towards Brossard, Quebec, J4Z 1Z2, Canada dormant life which characterizes the cucumbers can be planted and winter months. Even though the provide a small family with fresh food weather can be fickle and for at least three to four months of the Marché Coop Pinoy unpredictable some times, we can still year. It also allows friends, families and The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative take things in stride, that is, if we neighbors to get together and enjoy 4711 Van Horne Avenue maintain our calm and optimistic harvesting the fruits of their labor. Montreal, QC H3W 1H8 attitude. Our resiliency helps us cope Spring is also a good time to with the bad times and enable us to take a refresher course for self- Tel.: 514-733-8915 pick ourselves up from being down improvement. With the recession E-Mail: [email protected] and start all over again. Of course, this comes the problem of looking for may not be true in every case but another job when one gets laid off. perhaps, it is a good idea to try to take Instead of taking this as a crisis of a break from the doldrums of our sorts, one can make some routines and look up. Take time to adjustments and find out what other “smell the roses,” and don’t worry skills they have or improve upon to get about the future too much. Make the engaged in another field or another To All our Kababayan, best of today, and let tomorrow take job. Community colleges and schools Members or Non-Members: care of itself. Nothing will make us offer new programs in many fields. A b We need your support and we worse than constantly worrying of what person with an ambition to succeed in welcome all of you to shop at tomorrow may bring. life can find out what courses to take in The traditional spring clean up reaching one’s personal career goals. Marché Coop Pinoy. is one of the ways we can take as an Technology is so advanced that there All nationalities are also welcomed. example of taking time time out from is no excuse not to be able to find out working two or three jobs. Making our about almost anything. Radio, In our desire to serve you better, we surroundings clean and organized will television, newspapers and the internet decrease our level of stress because it are wonderful ways to get information keep our shelves full of merchandise, feels good to be living in a place that is that can be used in making important including fresh vegetables weekly. beautiful, clean and tidy. Our Scouts decisions. With the stimulus package We would appreciate it very much group will be involved in the spring from the government, there are many if you could visit us first before going to clean up and they will start with the good things we can benefit from, if only the other stores. We are just a few feet area around the monument of our we can get through the system of national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. The bureaucracy that often times are away from Metro Plamondon. annual distribution of plants and difficult to deal with, but with patience, Join us and be a member now! flowers by the members of APO (a non- persistence and determination, it is profit organization in our community) is possible to get assistance in terms of Enjoy spring shopping at also another activity that is relaxing and expert advice or subsidy for a project fun. They help the City distribute free that is both innovative and viable. For Marché Coop Pinoy! flowers which are aimed at example, there is a new initiative called encouraging homeowners to beautify “knowledge infra-structure” which their surroundings. sounds like a novel idea. The The plant distribution reminds government will help re-train workers in us of a wonderful hobby. Gardening is order to be better equipped or Order lechon for Saturday pick not only helpful and useful but also a prepared for other kinds of jobs in the up but we need at least a healthy way to relieve stress and global economy. Some people need minimum order of 15 lbs no exercise. It may not be everyone’s to re-evaluate themselves and realize later than Thursday. hobby but it is probably going to be the that there are other interesting options “in” thing to do for economic reasons. to make a living, like opening a Call us at 514-733-8915 The U.S. First Lady, Michele Obama, business which is both challenging to place your orders. does not mind getting her hands dirty. and rewarding, given the right tools Lechon $11.99 lb Delivery service fee ranges from $5 to Litsong Manok She is engaged in promoting healthy and managerial knowledge. It is said Whole - med $210 $8 for orders of $50 or more $11.49 each eating among families in her local that when God closes the door, a big $240 (Tuesday/Friday only) district of Washington. She said that window opens. It is up to us to make by gardening, people will be able to eat the next move. more fresh vegetables than junk food. For all the above reasons, let’s She was shown on TV doing gardening all enjoy Spring and watch trees come in one area of the White House. We alive and flowers bloom again. think it is a good idea, too, to promote gardening in Montreal. Even if people Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse The North American Filipino Star Tel.: 514-485-7861 (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] SUBSCRIPTION Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Name ______Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Hilda T. Veloso Jean Janete Aguilar Chief Editor & Publisher Address:______Jerry Estrada Community News Telephone: (Home) ______Business: ______Lina V. Fernandez Sam Ferry Mary Joy Lizarondo E-Mail: ______Dr. Victor Gavino Assistant Editor Sports News News & Tourism Prof. Isaac Goodine Nida Verginom Butaran Alvin D. Veloso 1 year (12 issues) $24 Bert Abiera Sales Representative Contributors Gift subscription Founder 2 years (24 issues) $40 Less 10% on the list price Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 3 0392-06 Solomon, Lilia Easier PR for live-in 0384-06 Soriano, Elizabeth caregivers COOPERATIVE NEWS 0052-05 Sotto, Sheila 0510-06 Subad, Eden Participants in the live-in 0279-05 Sumatra, Rose caregivers program (LCP) may Everyone is welcomed to 0463-06 Sunga, Marelit now have an easier time 0161-05 Surio, Alejandra seeking permanent residence shop at the Filipino Coop 0058-05 Suzon, Marivel in Canada. 0132-05 Tabiolo, Ofelia We have heard from the running fast. We need to look around ______Tablan, Antonio Olivia Chow, a New Democratic Party grapevevine that someone is passing for a good location, if there is 0354-06 Taculog, Gerry member of Parliament in Toronto, the rumour that only members can buy something better than the current one. 0362-06 Tagata, Florida Ontario has proposed changes to from the Filipino Cooperative. This is a If any of our members can help the 0363-06 Tagata, Renato include those in the live-in caregivers surprise for us to hear that some search for a good location, we would 0255-05 Tamata, Sylvia class on the list of foreign nationals people have been discouraged from be very grateful. 0417-06 Tandugo, Christine Lourn who are not included in the “excessive buyihg from the Coop because of this Some members have been 0005-05 Tandugon, Eduardo demand” categorization of being rumour. Since the store opened on calling and wondering if they are still 0416-06 Tandugon, Jean admitted into Canada. July 15, 2005, no one has been barred members when they saw a partial list 0317-06 Tapado, Adelina from buying here, even non-Filipinos published recently. Please be 0038-05 Taplac, Josefina The amendment, based on the Juana are welcomed, either as a customer or informed that all fully paid members 0228-05 Tavera, Concesa Tejada Law, would allow caregivers to as a prospective member. In fact, we were published first in the October and 0520-06 Tejero, Asuncion receive permanent residence as long are always asking everyone to November 2008 issues. The names 0266-05 Temporal, Emily as they’ve worked at least two years patronize the store to help it become published lately have not paid their 0409-06 Tenebro, Isabelito and paid their taxes, no matter their sustainable to serve the community. shares in full as prescribed by our 0173-05 Tenorio, Bernardita medical condition. There are about 12 000 constitution and they are not 0297-05 Tenorio, Bryan Filipinos living in Cote des Neiges considered members until they have 0174-05 Tenorio, Rod Other proposed changes include: alone, and many more live in Brossard, fully paid We are appealing to them to 0296-05 Tenorio, Rubie Ville St. Laurent, West Island, and the come and pay their balances. After all, 0127-05 Tremocha, John Joseph ** * Make those in the LCP eligible for South Shore. They all come to it is a small amount but when everyone 0128-05 Tremocha,Joselito** the Interim Federal Health Plan. Montreal to do their Philippine product pays up, it will amount to more than 0040-05 Tremocha, John Russel Currently, participants who are shopping. If 50% of all these people $30 000 which will certainly help us 0021-05 Trinidad, Joecel applying for permanent residence are come to buy from the Filipino Coop, it pay for our high overhead costs. 0247-05 Ubando, Nono Estella not allowed extensions to their health would have become a bigger store by We are completing our list of 0528-06 Ugalde, Orlina coverage in Ontario. now. But as everyone knows, it is hard people who have partially paid their 0083-05 Ungab, Bebiana to unite the community for a common shares (continued from previous 0381-06 Uy, Jacqueline * Reducing processing time for work cause. It takes time to pass the word 0569-06 Rochette, Jovita ______Valderama, Celia permits for new entrants to the LCP around and it even becomes more 0194-95 Rodolfa, Prescila 0230-05 Valentino, Cherry and for those eligible for permanent difficult when someone is deliberately 0441-06 Rodriguez, Leonida 0229-05 Vargas, Antonio residence, including their family sabotaging our efforts. We hope that 0160-05 Roferos, Zoe 0277-05 Velarde, Jocevel members. those who cannot say anything 0394-06 Roga, Leoanrd 0064-95 Velasco, Conchita Lilia favorable about the Cooperative 0480-06 Romero, Joseph 0157-05 Verginizia, Andy * Reviewing wages and benefits for should be think about the 0301-05 Rosales, Margarita 0212-05 Verginia, Stephane participants in the LCP. consequences of their actions. 0481-06 Rosialda, Belen 0263-05 Versoza, Liberata Besides, there are still many more 0119-5 Ruance, Evangeline 0197-05 Vilda, Sheila Deliberation for this has just begun people who believe in the same thing 0345-06 Ruiz, Cresencia 0208-05 Villa, Josephine and these changes will be considered we do. I just met Josefina Lalina (the 0554-06 Ruiz , Lilibeth 0202-05 Villafranca, Luisa by the Federal Standing Committee on sister of Dolly Villarino) and Ching who 0257-05 Ruiz, Roberto 0432-05 Villalongja, Jainto Citizenship and Immigration from now volunteered to distribute membership 0145-05 Sabariaga, Magdalena 0104-05 Villamor, Estrella until March 12, 2009. forms in church. Another kababayan, 0061-05 Salazar, Felix 0027-05 Villanueva, Marilyn Gloria Magtibay, just came to the store 0570-06 Salazar, Jose 0232-05 Villarante, Alfredo To read more about the experiences of and expressed her interest in 0060-05 Salazar, Lucia 0059-05 Villarino, Alfredo workers involved in the LCP, check out becoming a member to support the 0154-05 Salinas, Ma. Salvacion 0125-05 Villoria, Virgie the article “Maid to Order?” Coop. We are indeed delighted to 0153-05 Salinas, Ritchie ______Viloria, Gloria You can email your letter to meet many more people like them who 0055-05 Salva, Aveline 0176-05 Vivar, Emmanuel [email protected]. Please agree that it would be better for all of 0073-05 Samaniego, Domy 0041-05 Wakat, Erlinda include Letters to the Editor as your us to patronize our own. After all, 0372-06 Samillano, Genalyn 0406-06 Wylie, Erlinda subject line and ensure your letter is in when we need help, it is our fellow 0436-06 San Pedro, Merly 0551-06 Yassis, Roberto the body of the email (no attachments citizens who will come to our side. 0242-05 Sanchez, Catherine 0286-05 Yu, Blanche please). With the coming of Spring and 0053-05 Sarcon, Hayde 0530-06 Zagala, Rosemarie Migrante-Ontario member nicer weather, we are counting on 0478-06 Sardovia, Belen organizations: having an improved sales record. 0241-05 Selispara, Myra ** Paluagan account pending People tend to shop more when the 0502-96 Selispara, Myra Filipino Migrant Workers Movement; weather is good. For this reason, we 0502-06 Serion, Ma. Teresa If there is any error in our AWARE; Philippine Advocacy Through will try to keep our shelves full of 0063-05 Sevilla, Franco record, and you have a receipt Arts and Culture (PATAC); Damayan merchandise in order to serve our 0079-05 Siega, Medardo showing your payment, please let us Migrant Education and Resource customers better. 0383-06 Silao, Leodegario know. Center; Migrante Youth; Migrant We have not yet decided on 0373-06 Siya, Cecilia We thank you for your Workers and Family Resource Center - whether or not to relocate the store as 0450-06 Solis, Annabelle cooperation and understanding. Hamilton; Pilipinong Migrante sa it is not easy to move. Our lease is 0412-06 Solis, Eva hEasier PR for live-in Canada (PMSC) - Ottawa; Pilipinong expiring by May 2010, and time is 0107-05 Solo, Josephine caregivers Migrante sa Barrie (PMB) - The North American Filipino Star March 2009 4 proposing to the stakeholders of the Social Economy Partnership with the City of social economy to commit themselves From page 1 FAMAS Pageant Montreal By Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi to the shared responsibility of realizing When the candidates were Montreal, March 11, 2009 - A brief speeches on the common theme of an action plan on a long term basis. asked about their observation of ceremony highlighting the signing of solidarity, collaboration, innovation, The Partnership has three community life and what they find the partnership agreement between and sharing of better practices for a objectives: missing, Candidate No. 5, Mishael Pat the City and the various community sustainable economic development of 1 – to recognize formally the de la Cruz, pointed out the lack of agencies for social economy Montreal. The speeches were followed contribution of the social economy to unity. She did not elaborate on why development was held on Wednesday, by the official signing of the the development of Montreal she said this. The other candidates did March 11, 2009 at City Hall at 5:00 P.M. partnership agreement. Mayor Gerald 2 – to sustain the social not add to the discussion, but Pat which was followed by a cocktail Tremblay led the group of people in economy by supporting what has been Magallanes pointed out that the young reception. Invited guests were from the signing ceremony. done, reinforcing the existing methods various sectors of the social economy A handbook was distributed to and developing new ways for network. all the guests. This handbook is only improvement Mayor Gerald Tremblay available in French. Reading this 3 – to consolidate and delivered a speech acknowledging the document is very useful in the increase the contribution of stakeholders in the social economy to the sustainable development of the Quebec metropolis by the development and creation of community enterprises that meet the needs of its citizens. Moreover, there are three great orientations in its reach – the complementarity of the social economy and the mission of the City of Montreal; the citizens’ involvement in Shelley Quintos, FAMAS Director the economic activity and anchorage Chairperson, Bb. Pilipinas Pageant of the social economy in the local development, notably by the people do not get involved in the intervention of corporations of the community as much as they should. regional community economic She stated that she and her husband development of Montreal-Laval and the have been participating in community technical resources group (GRT – affairs while young people do not groupes de ressources techniques) seem to be interested. Shelly Quintos, and solidarity financial groups. the chairperson of the 2009 FAMAS Fruit of the efforts of Pageant and a director said that it is stakeholders in the social economy her first time to be involved in the and the City of Montreal which favors community. She felt that young people the solidarity and success of social may be too busy with their studies and economy enterprises, the Partenariat do not have the time to participate. presents a true way of economic Towards the end of the Mayor Gerald Tremblay gladly posed for souvenir with Zenaida Kharroubi, president of the growth which relies on five axes of conference, the candidates were Filipino Solidarity Cooperative, and Merle Valiente, treasurer, after the signing ceremony. intervention: asked about their willingness to understanding of the language and 1 – The accumulated and participate as volunteers in community importance of the agreement which is terminology associated with social collective entrepreneurial support to organizations. Most of them intended to consolidate all efforts of his economy – its definition, consolidate local anchorage to sustain expressed an interest in doing so and administration and social economy characteristics or elements, why it collective entrepreneurs and to enterprises on the plan of action developed and how it operates. Social develop support to the major projects anchored in concrete projects and economy is a term used to describe an of social economy innovative practices with the view of enterprise that has a social purpose 2 – The support of social ensuring and sustaining the which distinguishes it from an economy to the big projects that favor development of Montreal. He cited the economic enterprise which has only its integration in sustainable progress made over the past 20 years one purpose – to make a profit. development during which time the various The project is titled “Le 3 – A greater role for social organizations played an important role Partenariat en économie sociale pour economy in the improvement of the in the economic life of the community, un développement solidaire et quality of life of the population, without producing goods and services needed durable” (A partnership in social limit to innovations in the fields of by the people. The spirit of initiative, economy for solidarity and sustainable culture, sustainable development, participation and solidarity have development). It is based on the housing, collective real estate, leisure Flor Rillo, Acting President always been important values for recognition of the social economy as a and tourism. FAMAS 2007-2009 Montrealers. He said that his way of regrouping activities and 4 – Open business practices to administration shares these values organizations with non-profit favor the growth of social economy it is just a matter of time before they which make our city life more open, objectives for the purpose of enterprises would actually get more involved. more inclusive, more dynamic and producing, distributing goods or 5- A better promotion Bb. Pilipinas of Montreal is an more creative. In fact, he cited that his services for the benefits of their integrated into the social economy that annual fund raising drive of FAMAS. It administration already supports these members and the community at large distinguishes it from that of other is usually held around this time of the social economy organizations by under democratic principles, which at places by our own creativity year which is going to be on Saturday, means of different contributions, and the same time, as the case maybe, In order to ensure an adequate April 25, 2009 at the Hellenic by using their services and buying their offer support to professional training follow up and coordination with the Community Center, 5757 Wilderton products. He wants to reinforce the for integration into the cultural or City of Montreal boroughs and service Avenue. Dinner ticket costs $40. The relationship between the municipal social re-insertion. centers, different organizations of the community is encouraged to attend government and the social economy in The Partnership is conceived social economy, the Partnership will be this event in order to help raise funds order to make this sector an important as an agreement between the City and supported by a working committee for the upkeep and maintenance of the partner for the prosperity and the different actors or stakeholders of composed of people who are Philippine community center as well as sustainable development of our city. the social economy by which each responsible for the economic to support other activities like the He believes that this creative approach party engages in realizing projects in development file in the Executive Heritage class, sports, and the other will open new avenues of collaboration different areas of endeavours such as Committee, senior bureaucrats of the community-based projects. which will be beneficial to all citizens of sustainable development, cultural different municipal services and the Mr. Flor Rillo, acting president Montreal. development, housing and real estate, members of the Consultative of FAMAS, thanked the people who Other leaders of various social leisure and tourism. In the present Committee of the Partnership. attended the press conference. economy groups also delivered project, the City of Montreal is

www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 5 RP women more intelligent and Pacquiao ads for BIR to air on TV live longer than Filipino men Radio dzXL reported that while Pacquiao had earned a fortune with Filipino women are more literate of men. commercial endorsements, he will and expected to outlive their male More boys die during infancy at 35 be endorsing this time the Bureau of counterparts, a government fact sheet per 1,000 live births, compared to 25 Internal Revenue (BIR) and its tax reported on Tuesday. girls. Mortality rate among boys under payment campaign. Filipino women have a projected five years old were also higher at 48 The report said the 30-second life expectancy of 71.6 years, higher per live birth against girls' 34. ads feature Pacquiao urging than Filipino men's 66.1 years, the Surprisingly, however, more males taxpayers to pay the right taxes. Updates on Women and Men in the have been served by the Department It said BIR Commissioner Sixto Philippines by the National Statistical of Social Welfare and Development of Esquivias IV and Finance Secretary Coordination Board said. Social Welfare and Development at 47, Besides having longer life, 86.3- 136 against 33,480 women. Margarito Teves will join the boxing percent Filipino women have functional Although males had higher labor champ in the ad. literacy rate, higher than 81.9 percent force participation rate at 78.9 percent The BIR cited Pacquiao for his of men, while 94.3 percent of Filipino against females' 48.6 percent, the He may be training in the United timely payment of taxes. a women have simple literacy rate, average annual income of household States, but boxing champ compared to 92.6 percent of Filipino headed by a man was only at P167,013 Emmanuel "Manny" Pacquiao will men. against those headed by a woman at have a new endorsement ad on While men prefer to take up P197, 629. television to start airing Wednesday engineering and technology programs The elective positions in the evening. as their major, majority of women Philippines remain men's territory as chose medical and allied programs. they occupy 76.8 percent of these As for health and nutrition, Filipino posts, against 23.2 percent occupied Beyond poll automation men generally fared better than the by women. Finally, a special budget has been with electoral watchdogs and other women. More Filipino women were The NSCB also noted that 33.2 concerned groups, should do its best obese at 5.7 percent of the 45.9 million percent of Filipino males would signed into law for poll automation in not to frustrate those expectations. population compared to three percent approve of a woman having an 2010. Not a hybrid type – automated in The other day President Arroyo of 46.4 million of men. abortion against four percent of most parts of the country, manual in a signed into law the supplemental Despite this, more Filipino women females. few areas… such as Maguindanao, budget for poll automation. Palace are still under weight with 14.2 percent However, more Filipino women perhaps? The greatest fear of those officials said she wanted to make compared to 10.6-percent of men. would support a bill to legalize divorce who opposed hybrid elections was that modern elections part of her legacy. However, the NSCB also said that in the Philippines with 40.2 percent manual voting would be retained in The enactment of the supplemental Filipino women usually received better against 8.4 percent of men. selected areas so that those not yet budget lifts the last barrier to the medical care than men. Still, Filipino women remained familiar with manipulating automated holding of fully automated elections. Some 71.3 percent of Filipino conservative with only 10.8 percent of voting could still cheat the old way. The The next step is to ensure that the new women received vaccinations between Filipino women agreeing for unmarried fear went both ways, with some system lives up to its promise of clean 12 months and 23 months, against people to live together even if they quarters believing that it would be and orderly elections and a quick vote men's 68.4 percent. However, only 75.7 have no plans of marrying against 33.2 easier to cheat using vote counting count. percent of Filipino women when they percent of men. More men also had machines. Problems can start right at the were children between six months to premarital sex, with 31.2 percent of procurement of vote counting 59 months received Vitamin A them against 15.9 percent of women. a machines. The nation is still stuck with supplements , lower than 76.3 percent P1.2 billion worth of automated counting machines, all delivered and Panlilio camp willing to form fully paid for, that are deteriorating, unused, in a rented warehouse. For coalition 2010, the bidding and awarding of the contract for the machines must be The civil society group supporting Grace Padaca is a member, in their aboveboard. The machines must then Pampanga Gov. Ed Panlilio is willing to search for a presidential candidate. be tested for glitches and protected join forces with other political parties to Padaca is being eyed by the group against hacking and tampering. endorse and support a common to be the running mate of Panlilio if the It will take more than voting candidate for the 2010 presidential latter decides to pursue his presidential machines to make elections credible. race. bid next year. The Comelec must clean up voters’ Keh said they are also willing to lists. It must level the playing field for all register the movement as a political candidates by enforcing elections laws party to serve as a vehicle for the Regardless of where one stands on campaign spending and premature Panlilio-Padaca tandem. on poll automation, concerns about campaigning. Law enforcement The movement, Keh added, is now electoral fraud in 2010 persist. That authorities must also do their part by in talks with Bro. Eddie Villanueva, fear can be useful if it increases public preventing poll-related violence and head of the Jesus Is Lord Movement. vigilance against cheating. Public harassment of voters. There are many "We really want to know his expectations are unusually high that ways of undermining the true will of the intentions for the 2010 elections," Keh the general elections next year will electorate. Poll automation is just one said at a media forum this morning in herald long-awaited reforms. The step in making the 2010 elections Greenhills, San Juan City. Commission on Elections, working credible. a Detained Brig. Gen. Danilo Lim has also requested to meet and sit down with Kaya Natin Movement, Keh ART CORTEZ added. Lim has been arrested and B.Sc, Civil Engr. facing charges for his alleged Professional Home & Property Inspector involvement in the failed 2006 coup. Don’t buy/sell house without consulting professional "Bukas din kami para tignan ang inspector. Save thousands of dollars and enjoy our ibang kandidato (We are also willing to prompt and professional inspection services. Written check out other candidates)," Keh said. report with pictures provided. Serving Filipinos since 2001. For inspection booking and free orientation Gov. Ed Panlilio If Panlilio decides to back out, Keh seminar, please call 514-862-9912 said the movement would simply Lawyer Harvey Keh, lead convenor endorse Padaca as its presidential bet. OUR SERVICES Pre-Purchase and Pre-Sale Inspections of the Kaya Natin Movement, said they a Expense and/or Single Component Inspections open to coalescing with Ang Kapatiran Project Management and Monitoring and Liberal Party, in which Isabela Gov. Seminar and Consultation

www.filipinostar.org March 2009 6 The North American Filipino Star TOURISM ALBAY PROVINCE Land Of The World's Most Perfect Cone

Our Lady of The Gate Church, Daraga, Albay - The beautiful spanish era stone church of Cagsawa ruins church tower - Today, only the belfry remains as a mute testimony of Daraga that is entirely made of volcanic rocks constructed by the locals. An elevated Mayon’s unpredictable fury and devastating strength. place, it affords great views of the volcano. The Albay province is a paradise whole family. Agriculture dominates most of like scad, tuna, siganid, anchovy and located in the Bicol Region of the During the exploration of Juan de Albay's land area. Their major products mackarel. Aside from farming and Philippines, 460km south of Manila. Salcedo in 1573, the province and its include coconut, rice, abaca and corn. fishing industries, the Albaynons are Albay is home to the spectacular neighboring areas were known as The province is also rich in mineral good in handicraft making. Some of Mayon Volcano, the region’s crown 'Ibalon'. deposits like gold, copper, iron, their famous products are Sinamay jewel and one of the great wonders of A small settlement by a mangrove mercury and deposits of coal, marble, and Pinolpog, fabrics woven from the world. Only one hour away is the swamp was a town called Albaybay ceramic clay, perlite, silica, guano and abaca hemp and the mats made from natural habitat of the fascinating Whale (meaning "by the bay"). The town was phosphates. Lying around the pandan. Sharks in Donsol, an amazing first renamed Albay, then Legazpi, as province is a mass of fishing grounds Bicolano cuisine is famous for its interactive eco-experience for the Albay went on to refer to the province. that contain a selection of fish species rich and spicy dishes, which are

Mayon Volcano, otherwise known as the perfect cone volcano www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 7 mostly cooked using coconut milk Albay is filled with many natural called gata and spiced with a very hot, wonders and notable attractions in the local variety of chili called siling area include the Hoyop-Hoyopan, labuyo. Well known Bicolano Calibidongan and Pototan Caves, the specialties are Bicol Express (a very surfing beach at Sto. Domingo and hot dish cooked in coconut milk with also Misibis Island, a paradise for green chilies), Pinangat (fish or shrimp beach lovers, artists, and nature lovers wrapped in gabi or yam leaves and and an ideal place to enjoy swimming cooked in coconut milk), Laing (gabi and discover the exotic marine life leaves and stalks boiled into a stew underneath; Busay Falls and the Tiwi with ginger, chili and coconut milk) and Hot Springs; San Miguel and Rapu- Ginataang Langka (young jackfruit Rapu Islands are among the lesser stewed in coconut milk with shrimp known, but unspoiled dives sites in the paste called bagoong). country. Legazpi, the capital of Albay Mayon Volcano: The world’s most Province, is best known for its perfect cone, Mayon Volcano has a surrounding attractions, in particular, height of 2,242 meters (8,189 feet) and the majestic Mayon Volcano. Mayon is a base of 10 kilometers embracing world renowned for its perfectly several towns. Her name was derived symmetrical cone, which billows from the Bikol word “Magayon,” which smoke daily, a reminder that the literally means beautiful. The peak, volcano still erupts at frequent likened to the legendary beauty intervals. The buried remains of Daragang Magayon, is often Cagsawa, with only the church steeple concealed by clouds urging first-time Local handicraft store, daraga, albay - Curtains & hanging lamps made from seashells, still standing, are proofs of the strong visitors to stay longer to admire her ball lamps from abaca twine, native fans & hand bags made of "sinamay" cloth, a powers of this beautiful, but dangerous charm. material woven from fibers of a maguey plant (pineapple family). wonder of nature. Albay also celebrates its own Historical sites found in the festivities. The Karangahan Festival is province are the Battle of Legazpi celebrated in May is a grand Albayano Trylon, Jose Ignacio Paua Monument, celebration as an expression of wealth Old Albay, Simeon Ola Monument, brought about by a good harvest. Guinobatan and the Andres Bonifacio Katalingkasan Festival, held every July monument in Sto. Domingo. The 21-25, is celebrated in conjunction with National Museum in Cagsawa contains the town fiesta of Libon. Bicol Food geological finds from Mayon. Festival is a feast of the famous Bicol Notable ancient churches include cuisine. Bancathon is a water sport Our Lady of the Gate in Daraga, St. activity participated in by fisherman John the Baptist in Camalig and St. from the different municipalities of Rose in Bacacay. Albay. a

Sleeping Lion Hill - Kapuntukan Hill is called so because its contour and shape are like a sleeping lion, lying a kilometer away from the busy Legazpi pier. Atop this hill affords viewers to relish the beautiful vista of the entire city of Legazpi and the neighboring municipalities as far as the town of Manito and the alluring islands of Rapu-Rapu.

Misibis Island Beach - A paradise for beach lovers, artists, and nature lovers, Misibis is an ideal place to enjoy swimming and discover the exotic marine life underneath. The town of Tiwi, in Albay province, is known for their exquisite pottery. www.filipinostar.org March 2009 8 The North American Filipino Star Philippine militants linked to Al Qaeda threaten Red Cross hostage Abu Sayyaf vows to kill one of three hostages if government troops do not withdraw from their stronghold. Al Qaeda-linked militants in the Patikul and Tagbak in Indanan. The rebirth of Abu Sayyaf Philippines have threatened to The hostages, all workers of raises renewed fears of terrorism. behead a Red Cross hostage if the International Committee of the So far, Abu Sayyaf has focused on government troops do not Red Cross (ICRC) — Italian raising money through withdraw from their stronghold, national Eugenio Vagni, Swiss kidnappings, but it is likely to signaling an alarming new national Andreas Notter and pursue high-profile assaults to comeback for terrorist groups in Filipino Mary Jean Lacaba — were reassert its stature as a terror the Philippines. seized by the group in Jolo Island group, the report noted. Abu on Jan. 15. Today is their 69th day Sayyaf also has allowed foreign in captivity. militants, mostly members of the According to Agence France- regional terror group Jemaah Presse, Abu Sayyaf "is the smallest Philippines Sen. Richard Gordon, also the Islamiyah, to make the region their but most radical of several Islamic head of the Philippine National Red home. militant groups in the southern Cross, speaks to the press in Makati, "As long as they are there, Philippines. It is blamed for the Philippines on Wednesday March 18, they can provide safe haven for 2009. Gordon said the three Red Cross country's worst terrorist attacks and Jemaah Islamiyah where they can hostages, including two Europeans, is on the US government's list of train the next generation of foreign terrorist organizations." survived two days of fierce jungle clashes that killed three marines and up bombers and terrorists. That's why The Philippines' GMA News to seven al-Qaida-linked Abu Sayyaf they're a threat," said Col. William says that Abu Sayyaf is asking for captors in southern island of Jolo. Coultrup, who heads the U.S. two-thirds of the island of Jolo, and counterterrorism forces in has given the government until In an interview on dzBB Mindanao. March 28. But the government has radio, Lieutenant Colonel Ernesto To contain the most recent categorically denied the demand. Torres said they will not heed the standoff, the military moved to cut Abu Sayyaf's reported demand for off supplies to Abu Sayyaf's a larger pullout of government stronghold in a bid to put pressure troops in Sulu in exchange for the on the militant group, Voice of In this Jan. 15, 2009 file photo, Roland release of one of the ICRC Bigler, delegate of the Red Cross, shows America reports. volunteers.... pictures of kidnapped workers, Filipino A military spokesman said Mary Jean Lacaba, top, Swiss Andreas Torres said they also doubt Tuesday that government troops Notter, bottom left, and Italian Eugenio that the Abu Sayyaf will fulfill its part have cut food, water and other Vagni. of the "bargain" because last week, supplies to keep pressure on the the bandits reneged on [an] Abu Sayyaf militants. The The threat of beheading comes agreement to release one of the spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel days after "[M]arine snipers ... fired ICRC volunteers after government Edgardo Arevalo, said soldiers are at the [Abu Sayyaf] militants trying forces repositioned its troops in maintaining their cordon around to breach a loose military cordon, Indanan town. the dense jungle area where the sparking two days of clashes that This week's tense standoff and militants are holding the aid killed three marines and up to other recent attacks are reversing workers. seven guerrillas," reports the hopes that the Abu Sayyaf group The Inquirer reports that as the Associated Press. was successfully neutralized, the standoff continues, a military The militants have given the Associated Press reports. offensive to rescue [the hostages] government one week, beginning Not long ago, the al-Qaida- remains a last resort, according to Monday (March 23), to complete linked Abu Sayyaf group was Sulu Gov. Sakur Tan. the withdrawal from part of Jolo dismissed as all but dead, thanks "Well, if there is really no way Island (also called Sulu), reports to a much-heralded joint effort Filipino Red Cross volunteers and of getting the hostages peacefully The Inquirer, a leading English- against terrorism by the U.S. and sympathizers hold a candlelight prayer then we'll have to resort to that," Tan language newspaper in the rally near Manila in late February. the Philippine military. Now there is said. Philippines. fear that the Abu Sayyaf may be a In a telephone interview The spokesperson of the coming back.... Tuesday morning, Abu Sayyaf Armed Forces of the Philippines on leader Albader Parad told this Wednesday said they will not give reporter that the new ultimatum is in to the latest demand supposedly for the "serious implementation of a made by the Abu Sayyaf group Need Money? military pull-out" on areas they holding three International indicated in their talks with Sen. Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) Richard Gordon, namely, Santol in workers captive in Sulu. Do you have a full time job? If yes, call (514) 344-1499 DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU

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www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 9 P6-billion insurance fund for unemployed planned

President Arroyo has ordered unemployed SSS members have “We keep track (of the can do for them, but ask what they economic managers to study the been paying their taxes and dues to international developments) but can do for the country.’ proposal of Socioeconomic the pension fund, “the job of the what’s more important is to monitor “On the part of the people, this is Planning Secretary Ralph Recto for government is to show that (it) our own departments and agencies, the time that we should bond and the government to set up a fund to cares.” that they deliver on their targets and focus our attention on our families extend temporary unemployment He said the SSS board should commitments as far as (the P330- and community and we should insurance to workers who lose their begin to deliberate on having a billion) ERP (Economic Resiliency begin a new era of volunteerism and jobs, with money to be provided by program such as unemployment Program) is concerned,” Recto told community spirit,” she said in the Social Security System (SSS) insurance “because that’s what reporters. Filipino during an interview with the and the national government. social security is all about.” He said the advantage of GRIM state-owned Radyo ng Bayan here. “Like a pension plan, if you have is that “we can fine tune our moves “The government is with you, the difficulties and you’re unemployed, and responses and tweak the ERP religious and civic groups, the non- you get certain benefits from as well.” government organizations, government as well. This is just “Things are not static, things harnessing our people to engage in temporary so that they would look change so we need to make coordinated volunteer activities,” for work and not become lazy,” he necessary adjustments just like in she said. said. the US,” Recto said. She said Filipinos can focus on GRIM determination Mrs. Arroyo said her “simple initiatives like cleaning up The President has also set up a administration will continue to focus the environment, putting up parks, monitoring system to keep close on the basics in addressing the planting trees.” track of international developments spillover of the global economic She said during these trying as well as the government’s crisis to the Philippines, including times, “the Filipino spirit and programs to make sure the country creating more jobs, keeping commitment of caring should make will not slip into recession. consumer prices stable and each one of us (help the less Mrs. Arroyo said the Global extending more direct assistance to fortunate).” ISecretary Ralph Recto proposed the Recession Impact Monitor (GRIM) the poor. Mrs. Arroyo said the people can plan was put up to make sure that the She said the government will still count their blessings as the country’s growth would continue also continue to help the private Philippines is not experiencing the Recto proposed during the even if the global economic crisis sector to spur the economy. full-blown economic crisis that other Cabinet meeting that P5,000 or continues to deepen. She said there are about 41,000 countries like the US are facing. P10,000 be given monthly for six “We have to keep close watch overseas jobs lost to Filipinos but She said many relatives living months to SSS members who lose on the impact of global recession to this is miniscule compared to the abroad can attest to this. their jobs due to the economic crisis. make sure that the global recession millions out of work in the US and “Our country needs all of us He said the unemployment would not become a Philippine China. pulling in the same direction so we insurance would not be expensive recession,” she said in a radio Mrs. Arroyo reiterated that she should volunteer our time, our skills, because the administration has interview prior to the Cabinet has ordered the implementation of our resources. That is a noble allocated P10 billion for the meeting at the residence of emergency employment programs undertaking that we should all take conditional cash transfer to the poor. Presidential Anti-Smuggling Group funded from savings of government seriously,” the President said. “If you have P10 billion for chief Antonio Villar here. departments and agencies, which Mrs. Arroyo, who is celebrating conditional cash transfer, for “Two-thirds of the world is in have been ordered to set aside 1.5 her birthday next month, said her unemployment insurance, assuming recession and so far the Philippines percent of their maintenance and birthday wish is that for the global 100,000 lose their jobs at P10,000 a is not. That’s what we’re avoiding,” other operating expenses (MOOE). crisis “not to become a Philippine month for six months that’s only P6 she said. ‘Reviving bayanihan spirit’ crisis and that we are able to billion,” Recto told reporters. Recto said the GRIM is a bi- She also appealed to Filipinos, continue on our sustainable “But if you do it at P5,000 a weekly monitoring and meeting by civic groups and other non- development towards First World month for six months then that’s economic managers where the government organizations to revive status in 20 years.” a 200,000 jobless people benefited,” National Economic and the spirit of volunteerism and he said. Development Authority (NEDA) undertake “simple initiatives” that Recto and Labor Secretary makes presentations on global would help the country survive the Marianito Roque, however, stressed economic developments. global economic crisis. that unemployment in the country The GRIM would immediately Mrs. Arroyo paraphrased the late triggered by the global economic make assessments on the impact of US President John F. Kennedy’s crisis appears to be tapering off. such international developments for famous quote that the people Recto said that since quick response. ‘should not ask what their country

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www.filipinostar.org March 2009 10 The North American Filipino Star COMMUNITY NEWS 20th Anniversary Celebration of the Seafarers Brotherhood of Montreal a great success

The Filipino Seafarers Brotherhood member of Maritime Division and a of Montreal celebrated its 20th Labor Attache in Canada before his Anniversary foundation on Saturday, appointment as Philippine February 28, 2009 at Holiday Inn, in Ambassador to Canada. Highly Cote de Liesse with 270 guests in praising the Filipino Seamen for their attendance. Although over booked by perseverance and persistence on their 20 guests, the organizers managed to chosen vocation”, he underscored the accommodate even unconfirmed ticket fact that they have now brought home holders who came to join the affair. the badly needed dollars to the economy of the Philippines”. Mr.

Ambassador Brillantes and Shinette Khoury trying to put a crown on Jack Gavile as the evening’s Ms. Valentine. only program host in the community who was the added attraction of the CPR COURSE evening. Planned activities: Organized by July 17-19, 2009 Camping & Tour, Gilmore International College Camp Tamaracouta Oct. 31, 2009 - Halloween on April 19, 2009 The new officers of the Seafarers Brotherhood of Montreal are shown here taking Dec. 26, 2009 Family 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. their oath of office, led by Anthony Fernandez, president. Christmas Party Call 514-485-7861 for FSBM Civic Participation: Philippine Independence Day Parade. Canada more information. With a full capacity hall, the Blacksmith Patrice Caron I.T.F Inspector gave high Day Parade Band had to eat in adjacent room praise to the Filipino Seafarers for Community Benevolence together with the FSBM officers. being “hard-working and loyal to their For particulars, contact: Guests were entertained by live duty If the global industry is Anton Fernandez, President band music of the ever popular experiencing economic slow-down Telephone: 514-239-5746 Blacksmith Band. Dancing was the and recession, the job security of Advertise now in theme even before the special guests, Filipino seafarers is highly secured. If Philippine Ambassador to Canada, you see them hanging around Tim North American Filipino Star 514-485-7861

RESTAURANT LA MAISON NEW KUM MO 66565565 CCoteote d desesk NNeigeseiges, 5047 Henri Bourassa Est Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 Montreal, QC (Corner Appleton) Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese Stuffed Bean Curd with Broccoli Shrimps Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Fried Sea Bass Fish Steamed Rice Steamed Rice $37.95 4 Persons $58.95 These Hawaiian dances captured the audience: Glen Severino, Danny Florentino, Gary 4 Persons Pantaleon and Jhun Paluyo. Jose S. Brillantes and guest speaker Bean Curd Soup Fish maw seafood soup Mr. Patrice Caron, International Horton or in Plaza Cote des Neiges, 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger they are in their Winter break. They Seafood with Eggplant Transport Federation inspector arrived. Shrimp Cake with Chinese work four to five months in a year and in Hot Pot Program started on schedule to save Broccoli enough time for dancing. they automatically qualify for U.I.C. Stuffed Bean Curd with Sweet and Sour Pork Mr. Jake Maguigad, a formidable during winter time. And in early March Shrimp PBAM supporter recited the they are call back to their old job. Seafood with Bean Curd in Seafood with Chinese broccoli invocation. All other numbers were Montreal Seafarers have a secured job. Hot Pot Fried Sea Bass Fish performed during dinner-time. Bert Even neighboring provinces like Salt and Pepper Squid House Fried Rice Abiera gave the Brotherhood’s story Toronto came and also got same job”. Fried Sea Bass Fish Special Fried Noodles and referred to the seafarers as Guests were entertained by Steamed Rice $125.95 “champions” like Dr. Jose Rizal, the special numbers choreographed and $63.95 performed by the members. A “champion of human rights.” Today’s 6 Persons 10 Persons OFW are often times called the modern Hawaiian Dance that kept the crowd heroes. They are champions, not only standing and the usual “Stupid Cupid” FREE DELIVERY of human rights but also of the right to show led by Gary Pantaleon that made Minimum order of $10 514-733-6029 life, the “right of existence.” . the audience laugh to their hearts’ Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 Ambassador Brillantes, a die-hard content. 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Kudos to Mr. Freddie Espinosa, the supporter of our seafarers, a board 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny

www.filipinostar.org The North American Filipino Star 11 pork, laurel leaves, bell pepper and a OPEN HOUSE cup of water. Bring to a boil and let Laging Handa Scout Group simmer for 10 minutes. * Add tomato sauce, salt and Date: May 30, 2009 pepper to taste then let simmer for Time: 12:00-3:00 P.M. another 10 minutes Place: T.B.A. Philippine Cuisine * Add brown sugar and hotdogs. Continue to simmer for an Pot Luck Lunch additional 5 minutes. * Serve with the cooked Chicken Afritada Recipe minute or two. spaghetti noodles and grated cheese Video presentation of Scouting * Salt and pepper to taste on top. and educational activities and * Serve this chicken recipe hot Read the Filipino Star games demonstration with steamed rice. regularly or click on the All parents with young children Filipino Style Spaghetti website: are invited to attend. Please Recipe www.filipinostar.org mark this on your calendar.

Hours: Mon. Tue. Wed. - 8 am - 5 p.m. Thu. Fri - 8 am- 6 pm Sat. 8 am-5 pm Closed on Sundays

Estimated cooking time: 50 minutes Pork loin Beef Picnic ham Approximately Blade steak (with bone) Chicken Afritada Ingredients: 15 lbs .69 49 29 * 1 kilo chicken, cut into pieces Estimated & preparation & cooking lb . lb . lb * 5 pieces potatoes, peeled and time: 40 minutes. 2 3 1 halved Half or Whole Front quarter of beef Boneless leg * 1 red onion, diced Spaghetti Ingredients: pork Approximately 200 lbs of ham * 1 head garlic, minced Cut & Wrapped * 1 green bell pepper, sliced into * 1 kg. spaghetti noodles .09 99 strips * 1/2 kg. ground beef 1.39 2 lb . lb 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips * 1/2 kg. ground pork lb 3 * 2 cups pork or chicken stock * 1/4 kg. hotdogs, diagonally 1 litre of fresh blood with purchase (broth) sliced Beef Home smoked short ribs when available * 1 cup tomato sauce * 1 kg. tomato sauce 1/2pork meat 99 * 2 tablespoons of patis (fish * 3 pieces laurel leaves (bay . Regular smoked sauce) leaves) .79 1 lb 8 lb bacon * 3 tablespoons of cooking oil * 1/4 cup brown or white sugar Pork Spare Ribs * 2 green bell peppers, diced .89 Chicken Afritada Cooking Instructions: * 2 onions, chopped Fresh Belly 4 lb * 1 head garlic, minced with skin 10 lbs & over .99 * In a cooking pot or wok, heat * 3 tablespoons of cooking oil 99 2 lb oil. * 1 cup of water 2. lb .79 * Sauté garlic and onions. * Salt and pepper to taste 4 lb * Add chicken and slightly * 1/2 cup grated cheese St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard brown. Napierville Fresh pork blood Sherrington * Pour the tomato sauce and Spaghetti Cooking Instructions: Barrington Fresh bacon 203 219 202 Lacolle stock. Bring to a boil and allow to Hemmingford Fresh liver Jackson Road Sortie simmer for 20 minutes or until the Havelock Exit No.6 * Cook spaghetti noodles Pork skin Canada Parc chicken is almost cooked. 219 Safari Class 15 according to package instructions. Available * Add potatoes and continue to Covey Hill Road * In a sauce pan or wok, Boucherie Viau Inc. cook for 10 minutes or until the U. S. A. sauté garlic and onions in cooking Malone potatoes are cooked. Moders Champlain oil. * Add the green and red bell Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 * Add ground beef, ground 83 Covey Hill, peppers, simmer for an additional Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 SUGARING OFF / Cabane à Sucre Gilmore International College cordially invites all alumni, their friends and family to take a break and enjoy Spring by going to the Sugar Bush Erabliere au sois bois, Mont St. Gregoire Sunday, April 12, 2009 Departure time: 9 A.M. Return: 3 P.M. All you can eat buffet Reserve your tickets now Call 514-485-7861

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star March 2009 Laging Handa Winter Camping Camp Tamaracuta, March 6-8, 2009

Cubs and Scouts display their certificates of excellence they received The Cubs and Scouts take time out to rest after tobogganing on the snowy hills in Tamaracouta. for participating in different activities during their camping

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www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star March 2009 • Would you be glad to choose it they need. If you notice any problems as a daily job? that many people tend to experience, • Do you have some unique think how you can help them. See if skills or knowledge in that field? there is some serious competition in • Who would be interested in your field. As always, write down and your proposition? think over your new ideas. And, • Would you like to work with besides conducting your research those people? intentionally, always write down the After that, you should have a "incidental" ideas that come to you list of areas of interest that have the during a walk in the park, or during best chances to bring you the success. your lunch. The best ideas often Now, you can pick one of those areas appear at the moments like that, so Choosing The value. Your product must be valuable and start structuring your knowledge. make sure you don't forget them. for your customers, solve their Business Model problems, fulfill their wishes, and That Suits You Best generally make them happy. While businesses are folding Your “Target Market Niche” is your right and left and people are filled with audience, your potential customers. panic and fear, we should continue to Your target niche should have a stay positive and not to forget the "I reasonable size - large enough to refuse to participate in a recession” make a good profit, small enough to fit slogan . A simple affirmation like this the resources of a small business and one can help a business minded avoid competing with the large person focus on success instead of corporations. And your target audience getting caught up in all the worries and should be easy to reach online through turmoil on the news. Because he or the specialized web sites, online she is focused on success, the forums, mailing lists, phone, etc. business idea will be open to Your “Unique Selling Proposition opportunities that others overlook. (USP)” is what connects your product While other business owners are with the target audience. It is the heart spending time locked in their offices of your business idea. It can be defined staring at the red ink in their financial as your marketing strategy, or your report.... why not take a short break, business mission. It is the concept that enjoy the freshness of spring and you makes your product something more will be surprised how fast a more relax than one of the items on the shelf for person can create good ideas for a sale. It must make your product stand Write down the list of all the basic Lastly read articles, stories, or be new business or a business that needs out of the crowd and persuade your things one needs to learn to reach your surrounded by people that can really positive results. prospects that your product is the one level of success in that area. Then put inspire you and lead you to the road of What makes a good business idea for perfect solution to their problems. them in a logical order, so that your success no matter what the economy a beginner: If all three parts of your customer could learn them in is. Let's look closer at the three parts of business idea meet the above criteria, sequence. Then, do the same for each No matter how much you like what we call a business idea. The your chances to succeed are quite item in your list - break it into smaller your idea, don't be in a hurry. Don't "Product" term is self-explanatory, The good. But how can you find such an parts, and then arrange those small invest your time and money into a new "Target Market Niche" is also widely idea? Read on, and you'll learn several parts in a logical order. business until you make sure you'll be used, Unique Selling Proposition” or ways to do it. When you finish such two-level able to profit from it. It would be very USP" is somewhat less known, but we Find a niche that matches your lists for several areas of interest, you'll disappointing to spend half a year and want to make some comments on knowledge and skills. The best policy have some ideas about what you can thousands of dollars into a new each of those terms, regardless of their when determining your product and offer to other people. Look through product, and then to be unable to sell it popularity. target market is to do what you enjoy your lists, and think over each item. to anyone. First of all, think, would you Your “Product” is, pretty obviously, doing. You'll achieve the best results if • Do you know anything special buy such a product yourself? If you what you are trying to sell. It can be a you love your work. So, first of all, think about it? have any doubt, then you should tangible item, like a book or a bar of about the things you like to do most of • Do you have any related skills? probably work on another idea. Make soap. It can be an electronic item, like all. It may be your current job, or your • Can you try and create some sure your target audience is easily an e-book or downloadable software. previous one, special skill, your hobby, product to help people solve that reachable online or by phone. You can And last, it can be an online community your favorite kind of sports, or anything problem? even estimate the price of your product membership, your professional else you like. Write down all those • Can you offer something or the services you will be offering by service, or anything else you are going possible areas of interest, and then outstanding, not presently saturated simply asking people how much they to charge your customers for. We call think about each one of them anywhere else in the market? would pay for the solution to their all those things "a product." The most separately. Try to answer the following Write down your ideas and try problems, and how much they usually important attribute of a product is its questions: to imagine and describe a business pay for similar products. built on every one of those ideas. Over time, your business will Some of them might look weird, but likely come to incorporate more than some may be quite viable. Show your one business model, but take it slow at lists and ideas to your friends, listen to first for a couple of reasons: their opinion. They'll surely tell you • Always take a focused what ideas they like most, and maybe approach with your business and they'll even give you some more ideas. introduce things slowly, so you can test They can also point out some logical and improve your results before mistakes you might have made. Ask adding more workload and your friends what products they might responsibility to your plate. need, or what they would be willing to • It takes time to understand learn. Think how you can help them. your target market and what they really Many other people could have the want. Offering a few products to start same problems as your friends. Again, with and growing your selection as you write down all new ideas and imagine have a deeper understanding of their developing a business. needs is always the smartest route to Do some research on the take. Internet. Find the web sites related to Now, For the owner that needs a your areas of interest and your specific booster for their sleeping business ideas. Learn what other people say before it falls to comatose. about those things. Find some related Read through your options again. Re- online forums, or newsgroups. Listen check your personality, time and to what people say, especially to what financial constraints in making new

www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 15 Minister of Industry provincial list for consideration. decisions and consider if it needs to for the best pricing on materials and Projects could be announced as early take a detour.. like new strategy or Launches $2 Billion labor. Keep size of the product to a as April 2009. inventing your own product. (Did you Knowledge Infrastructure minimum (which takes up less The Government of Canada know that the giant “Microsoft” of Bill space on the store shelf). Provide Program will provide up to 50 percent of the Gates launched his own product periodic surprising new add-on HALIFAX, March 9, 2009 — The eligible costs for selected projects, with during recession?) products to keep the buyer interested, Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of the balance to come from provincial Let’s look through some of the grow your solitary item into a full Industry, today launched the and territorial governments, the hallmarks that make for good retail product line; and help the retailer Knowledge Infrastructure Program,a charitable sector, the private sector, or inventions: It is functional and simple to satisfy consumers who are always two-year $2-billion measure to support the post-secondary institutions use. It makes life easier, while making looking for "what's next" (regardless of infrastructure enhancement at post- themselves. In the case of federally run the user feel better, smarter, more the economy.) secondary institutions, including institutions, such as those accredited efficient or more attractive. It’s fun to Why this is the right time for universities and community colleges, by a First Nations government, up to use. It retails for $40 or less, yet has an you, The inventor? You may be across Canada. The program will 100 percent of project funding may be element of magic. It saves both time unemployed, or in need of extra promote employment and provide provided by the Government of and money, and is reliable, durable, money. You may be scared to take that economic stimulus, and create jobs for Canada. safe and performs well. It is convenient next step. You may have been waiting engineers, architects, tradespeople Projects chosen to receive to store. During a recession, other for the “perfect time” to launch your and technicians. It will also generate federal funding will be selected based attributes of successful inventions invention. But now is the time to put the advanced technological on project readiness, including the would include items that help your idea into action. Now is the time to infrastructure needed to keep ability to start work quickly on the consumers repair/improve or re-use push yourself to compete, and Canada's research and educational project, the generation of economic what they already own.. Ex. flexible complete your vision. Take advantage facilities at the forefront of scientific activity and job creation, the project's shopping bag made of cheap materials of recessionary times. If your invention advancement. enhancement of research capacity, than can be found in liquidation store). is successful during a recession, it can “This initiative to renew and its ability to provide for a better Most inventions are currently sold to really thrive during good times. As Canada's colleges and universities will educational experience for our next wholesale buyers and/or sold directly Frank Sinatra’s most famous song provide significant short-term generation of researchers. to the public through internet. In said, “If you can make it here, you can economic stimulus to communities Canada's Economic Action selling to wholesale buyers, it is critical make it anywhere”, I say “If you can across the country and will put many Plan sets out to stimulate the Canadian to keep in mind their perspective. make it now- go for it!” and hopefully Canadians to work,” said Minister economy over the next two years and Wholesale buyers are on the lookout you continue that by the tune of “Ï did Clement. “Investing in leading-edge to improve our long-term for something that will cut through the it my way”. facilities will also enable these competitiveness through $12 billion in jungle of “stuff” already out there, that **For your comments or suggestion institutions to attract, train and retain new infrastructure investment, which will sell itself, and is so novel it needs you can reach me at the highly skilled researchers of the includes the $2-billion Knowledge little to no advertising. In cash poor [email protected] future.” Infrastructure Program. This new times, buyers are looking to tighten “The Government of Canada is support is the next substantive inventories by buying and stocking Learn the fast and easy investing in innovation to create jobs, investment in the Government of less, and paying less for products in way to speak French. help our economy recover quickly and Canada's multi-year Science and order to increase profit margins, while Enroll at Gilmore improve the quality of life for Technology Strategy, Mobilizing offering value to customers. Some of Canadians,” said the Honourable Gary Science and Technology to Canada's the ways to appeal to a buyer and help International College Goodyear, Minister of State (Science Advantage. them market your product are: Source 514-485-7861 and Technology). “The renewal of For more information about the college and university facilities will Knowledge Infrastructure Program, encourage more world-class including program criteria and application researchers to work in Canada and instructions, please visit give them the tools they need to make www.ic.gc.ca/knowledge-infrastructure. more discoveries that will benefit For further information (media only), Canadians and people around the please contact: Pema Lhalungpa world.” Press Secretary. Office of the Honourable In order to ensure that Tony Clement, Minister of Industry. 613- 995-9001. Media Relations. Industry Knowledge Infrastructure Program Canada. 613-943-2502. Gary Toft, funding is delivered efficiently, Minister Director of Communications Clement and Minister of State Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear Goodyear have written to the provincial Minister of State (Science and and territorial governments, Technology)613-943-7599 universities and community colleges to John Papadimas,Conseiller Régional, ask them to submit their post- Communications, Cabinet de l'honorable secondary infrastructure priority Christian Paradis, Regional Cmmuniations projects. The first round of project Advisor. Office of the Honourable Christian submissions is due by March 31, 2009; Paradis 6e étage, suite 60, 400 Place these can be directed to the d'YouvilleMontréal, Québec, Tel: 514-283- Government of Canada or through a 8695 Cell: 514-451-0065

www.filipinostar.org March 2009 16 The North American Filipino Star Backgrounder Many of us pay into Employment Insurance for years. Most CHILD SEXUAL ABUSE PREVENTION KIT the public to know that our agency has FOSTERING ENTREPRENEURSHIP RELEASED IN RESPONSE TO the resources available to help them AND CREATING JOBS of us rarely give it a second thought, but when we do it’s a comforting one. NATIONWIDE CHILD PORNOGRAPHY deal with their concerns and to BY INVESTING IN THE CANADIAN ARRESTS address their questions," said YOUTH BUSINESS FOUNDATION We think EI will be there when we need it. But the truth is that Employment Teatree Tells: A kit to help educators McDonald. Insurance is failing the middle class. and parents prevent child sexual In addition to the numerous As part of Canada’s Economic abuse materials and resources available to Action Plan, the Harper Government is Unfair eligibility rules, insufficient benefits and the two week Ottawa, ON: On the heels of the the public at its website, investing $10 million in the Canadian nationwide child pornography arrests www.protectchildren.ca, the Canadian Youth Business Foundation (CYBF), a waiting period are making things tough for many of the 300,000 Canadians announced this morning, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection today national charity that provides start-up Centre for Child Protection has launched Teatree Tells: A Child Sexual mentoring, financing and business thrown out of work since the last federal election. As few as 40% of responded with resources to help Abuse Prevention kit, to help parents resources to help young Canadians, Canadians deal with the enormity of and educators with children four to six aged 18-34, create their own worker’s qualify for EI and just 3 in 10 women. Many miss out even if they’ve the investigation and its implication for years of age deal with issues related to successful businesses. children. child sexual abuse. Founded in 1996, CYBF been paying in for years. Stephen Harper’s latest "Child pornography is child The kit includes a parent guide supports youth who would not sexual abuse. The scope and size of on child sexual abuse and disclosure; otherwise have the opportunity to budget did nothing to fix those problems. Workers need help now far this investigation underscores the two teacher guides with lessons and realize their full potential and launch a importance of educating Canadian activities for nursery, kindergarten and business. Modeled after the UK's more than an extra five weeks at the end of the benefit period. By refusing parents and those who work with grade one children; as well as three Prince's Trust, CYBF is an accredited children on this serious issue. posters, a Teatree book and a Teatree member of Youth Business to take seriously the flaws in EI, Stephen Harper is failing the middle Canadians are going to want answers puppet for use in the classroom. International, and has been recognized on how to prevent child sexual abuse Teatree is one of the Centre's already as one of the most efficient class Canadians that are the backbone of this country. from happening, and we want them to established characters used to teach organizations of its kind globally. As know that our agency is here to help," children important safety skills. such, CYBF is often called upon to EI is meant to be insurance against losing your job, so that the said Lianna McDonald, Executive "We recognize the issue of mentor youth entrepreneurship Director of the Canadian Centre for child sexual abuse and disclosures programs in other countries. sudden closure of your tech firm, call centre or factory doesn’t reduce your Child Protection. may bring about a certain level of fear CYBF provides the foundation Cybertip.ca, which is operated or discomfort for parents and for new business start-ups with loans family to poverty right away. It’s supposed to bridge the gap between by the Canadian Centre for Child guardians or any professional who of up to $15,000 and on-line business Protection, has received more than works with children. This kit is meant to resources. The repayment period being laid off and finding new work. It’s not a hand-out – it’s your insurance. 35,000 reports from Canadians. Data help guide them through it," added varies with the loan amount. Amounts collected by Cybertip.ca reveals that McDonald.Earlier today the National up to $7,500 are repayable over 3 Workers usually stay on EI for around 20 weeks. almost 70% of the confirmed child Child Exploitation Coordination Centre years. Amounts over $7,500 are pornography images involve children (NCECC), in coordination with law repayable over 5 years. The first year's qEI is good for the economy, too. Lay- offs don’t stop middle class families less than 8 years of age, and 30% of enforcement units across Canada, payments are interest-only at chartered those capture sexual assaults against held a press conference announcing bank prime plus two percent. There is from needing to spend money on food and other essentials. EI means that the child victim. the arrest of more than 50 individuals an initial start-up fee of $50 plus a $10 "These statistics demonstrate for possession and distribution of child monthly administration fee. money keeps going into local economies. Think of it as reducing the the need for Canadians to recognize pornography. The critical difference between signs of child sexual abuse. We want a new company's sustainable success ripples in the pond when a rock is and failure is the mandatory world- thrown in. EI should keep economies class mentoring program. CYBF afloat, so that job losses don’t simply individually qualifies, interviews and lead to more and more job losses. trains every volunteer mentor, hand- New Democrats want to give matching each one with a CYBF middle class Canadians a fair deal entrepreneur for a minimum of 2 years under EI. With the support of the during the critical start-up period. other opposition parties, we recently Delivery partners are located passed a motion calling on the Harper across Canada and most sectors are government to fix EI by: eligible. * Lowering the hours worked Last year CYBF funded 400 needed to qualify and make them the new start-ups across the country, same in every province bringing their total to 2,800 * Allowing self-employed workers entrepreneurial companies. These to participate in the program. businesses have created $300 million * Raising the wage replacement in sales revenue, $69 million in tax rate from 55 per cent to 60 per cent. revenue, $33 million in export revenue, * Eliminating the two-week waiting and more than 15,000 new jobs. On period to start receiving benefits. average, each new company creates 5 * Making it easier for workers to get jobs. CYBF also boasts an impressive training. repayment rate of 95%, with received These are sensible reforms money reinvested in the next wave of that will help middle class Canadians entrepreneurs. now, by reducing the impact of job By working collaboratively losses on the economy and keeping through existing infrastructure, with families afloat in difficult times. We generous support from the private and are calling on the Prime Minister to public sectors, and with its network of enforce these changes. Demand fair more than 150 local Community access to your Employment Insurance Partners and with more than 2,600 when you need it. volunteers, CYBF delivers its vital program coast to coast. For additional information or to ADULT VOLUNTEERS obtain a loan application, please go to FOR SCOUTING ACTIVITIES www.cybf.ca. mployment Insurance is TWO HOURS WEEKLY failing the middle class We also accept children The Hon. Jack Layton, M.P. P.C. aged 7 to 14 years old Leader of the New Democratic Party of to be involved in Canada Scouting Please call 514-485-7861 for more information www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 17 Tributes to a Great Community Leader - Camerlita Ongpauco Sideco tMonreal, February26, 2009 Women's Club, Montreal Chamber Carmelita Ongpauco-Sideco. the first president of the Philippine It is with profound sadness Orchestra, political organizations and The Sideco Family wishes to Folk Art Society. She exemplified the and loss that I share with you the news many more. thank everyone for their prayers. best in the Filipino, and she will surely of Tita Lita's passing away today at the She believed in the Details of the viewing arrangements be missed. Royal Victoria Hospital. importance of education so she helped will be e-mailed as soon as available. She is a beloved and various schools such as Ecole des Thank you for all your prayers and Member of Parliament - Outremont: cherished mother of Erik, Ian, Neil and Nations, Ecole de petit chapiteau, friendship in this time of need. Thomas Mulcair and Catherine Arne and a constant partner of Tita Ed, among others, connect with the -- Mulcair: Dr. Ed Sideco and hip friend and Filipino community to address issues Riza Trillanes Esmeralda mother-in-law to her daughters-in-law concerning a Filipino-majority Director of Public and Government To the Family and Friends of and a loving Lola to Katie and Allison. population in these schools. Relations Carmelita, Among her numerous Filipino She personified Philippine Philippine Association of Montreal and My wife Catherine and I sent community involvements, she was the graciousness combined the Filipino Suburbs (FAMAS) our heartfelt condolences to the family Founding President of the Philippine values of community service, Serving the community since 1963 and friends of Carmelita. Folk Art Society of Quebec (PFASQ), compassion and kindness and quite 4708 Van Horne Ave. We've had the pleasure and honour for the first female President of the determination. Montreal, Quebec many years to work with and admire Philippine Association of Montreal and The loss of one of the finest Metro Plamondon this generous, caring and amazing Suburbs (FAMAS), a steadfast and beloved pillars of our community Tel. 514-341-7477 woman. member and supporter of the Filipino is unconveivable when her youthful Her devotion not only to her Nurses' Association of Quebec (FNAQ) spring of optimism remains palpable community but to the greater Quebec and the Federation of Philippine and vivid to this moment. and Canadian Community has been a Canadian Association of Quebec and a Yet, I believe this loss is gained Member of Parliament - Mont Royal: Irwin model and an inspiration to us all. founding member of the Philippine and will live in us if we let her legacy of Cotler and Mrs. Cotler: Our deepest sympathies are sent in the Centre of Greater Montreal Foundation relentless community service, sincere hope that her memory will compassion and kindness and “Ariela and I were deeply continue to inspire new generations of and supported many associations. saddened – indeed shocked – to learn of Carmelita’s passing. dedicated volunteers and professionals Carmelita made an enormous whose lives have been touched by contribution to the Filipino community, as knowing her. the first female President and ongoing leader of FAMAS, as a devoted member of Michael Applebaum - Mayor Borough the Filipino Nurses Association and of the of Cote des Neiges - Notre Dame de Federation of Philippine Canadian Grace, Marvin Rotrand - City Councillor Associations of Quebec, to name a few. - Snowdon, Saulie Zajdel - City Indeed, her leadership and Councillor - Darlington: engagement went beyond the Filipino Permit us on behalf of our community – involved as she was with a myriad of intercultural, university, artistic colleagues of the Cote des Neiges - and political organizations and projects, all Notre Dame de Grace Borough Council of which benefited from her seemingly to convey our sincerest condolences to endless generosity, courage, and energy. Dr. Ed Sideco and family on the sudden She was one of the great and passing of Carmelita Sideco. beloved pillars not only of the Filipino We will all miss Carmelita's community but of the larger community of warmth and energy. She was such a Quebecers and Canadians. She presence in so many causes that so personified the best of Filipino values of positively touched so many people. A commitment, compassion, community proud Filipino and a proud Canadian, service, and selfless giving of herself for the well-being of others. Carmelita was a trailblazer helping She will be sorely missed by all found organizations such as the who knew her – including my family Philippine Folk Art Society and and myself – and all those whose lives becoming the first women President of she touched over the years. the Philippine Association of Montreal May you be inspired by her and Suburbs (FAMAS). memory, and may that memory serve But she was involved in the as a blessing for all.” broader community as well working to improve the working conditions of Alvin & Hilda Veloso, Ex President, nurses and educators. Her work in Philippine Folk Art Society of Quebec, training nurses at Vanier College is Washington, D.C., USA: fondly remembered by may who went The Veloso family joins the on to successful careers in the health Filipino community in expressing our care field. deepest sorrow in the sudden demise Carmelia believed in a of Carmelita Sideco, a good Christian, democratic multicultural Canada. She a real community leader and a served on the Board of organizations passionate human being. Hilda and I that defend civil rights and equality and our childlren, Melvin and Michele, before the law regardless of colour or wish Dr. Ed Sideco and his children, creed. She was involved in federal as our heartfelt condolence in this hour of well as municipal politics and believed Carmelita Sideco (left) at Park Jean Drapeau with Riza Esmeralda bereavement. May your faith in God that voting is a citizen's most solemn and in His promise of eternal life give duty. She believed Filipinos should unshaken faith on who we are as a you strength and courage. She was a wonderful wife and reach out to different communities and people and the possibilities therein, REQUIESCAT IN PACE! MAY SHE mother. She was also a wonderful promote and share our culture and inspire us to act on these values. REST IN PEACE! citizen and friend to so many in our participate fully in the community as The Philippine, Canadian and I have known Lita like most Borough and city. She will be missed. Quebecers and Canadians. As such, Quebec flags, symbols of identities Filipinos for a long time, and had a she was also an active member and/or Tita Lita lived with pride, will be flown good working relation during our officer of various organizations such as half mast at FAMAS, in hommage to early days with the FAMAS, as an the Shield of Athena, University FAMAS' first female President, officer of the the Federation, and as

www.filipinostar.org March 2009 18 The North American Filipino Star hindi ko naman talaga kinopya yung parati sa mga eksena niya. madami galaw niya. I just watched it to be akong gustong films niya pero the one FILIPINO STAR familiar and see how he does it. I think na nagustuhan ko talaga yung deserving siya to win Best Actor. I performance niya is in The Aviator. Ang didn’t watch Brokeback Mountain, galing niya dun eh, sobra. I also S H O W B I Z G O S S I P baka ma-trauma na ako (laughs). Pero watched The Beach, Titanic, I heard maganda yung movie so I want Revolutionary Road, The Departed, to watch it na rin,” he adds. Blood Diamond… basta andun siya,” AJ also admits that when it comes he says. Model student AJ Perez enjoys to acting, he really looks up to For more updates on AJ and other Hollywood actor Leonardo DiCaprio. Kapamilya stars, keep logging on daily learning from veteran actors “Ang favorite actor ko is Leonardo kasi to www.abs-cbn.com a andun yung lalim sa acting niya eh. Whenever I watch him, nadadala ako No rift with Dennis, Carlene Aguilar says

lasted only less than an hour; "45 minutes," Carlene beamed. Looking at her wide black and white photo on display that evening, Carlene couldn't help but gush: "Maganda parang alive na alive talaga. Kahit na black and white siya, makikita mo talaga na buhay." BALANCING ACT. Carlene is currently seen in GMA 7's primetime series, Ang Babaeng Hinugot Sa Aking Tadyang, where she portrays the role of Clarisse. Juggling her time, admittedly, is never easy. Aside from show business, the former beauty queen is also taking up architecture at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City. Commercial model-turned-actor though I’ve worked with Lauren Young She is also a mom to son, Calix AJ Perez has always been a good and Empress Schuck before, but it’s Carlene Aguilar Andreas — her lovechild with actor student. As an honor student at La my first time to work with sina Matt and former boyfriend Dennis Trillo. Salle Greenhills where he is a high Evans, Melissa Ricks, Rafael Rosell, Model-turned-actress Carlene "Buti na lang nakikisama 'yong EP school sophomore, AJ makes sure to and sina Tita Sylvia Sanchez. Si Tita Aguilar was ecstatic with the result of [executive producer] ng show kaya still keep his studies a top priority Sylvia is already a veteran actress and her pictorial with ace photographer, kahit papaano na-a-accommodate pa despite his showbiz schedule. “Final marami na silang nagawa so parang Mark Nicdao. rin ng schedule ko," she said. exams ko this coming week so sana it’s an experience getting to work with The photo exhibit held last March PEP (Philippine Entertainment pagbutihin ko kasi wala na akong other people and at the same time, 11 at the Greenbelt 5 in Makati City Portal) took the opportunity to ask taping. Kahit dito nga sa taping nag- yung role ko, parang mas nag-mature showed various celebrities in black Carlene regarding the latest issue aaral pa rin ako. Half day ako sa na, as compared to my previous and white images as captured through saying that she and Dennis are at odds school minsan so yung ginagawa ko projects,” he explains. the lens of the top fashion once again, which consequently na lang is bumabawi talaga ako sa photographer. Other celebrity subjects affects the young actor's visitation nami-miss ko na homework or any that evening included KC Concepcion, rights to their son. tests. Basta priority talaga yung exams Enchong Dee, Richard Gomez, Regine "Wala," replied a perplexed so sabi ko basta walang gagalaw sa Velasquez, Jericho Rosales, and Carlene. "Okay naman," she added, exam schedule ko,” he shares. CamSur Governor LRay Villafuerte. "kasi friends naman kami ni Dennis Outside the classroom, AJ also Mark, according to Carlene, was kaya wala namang problema." a enjoys learning from veteran actors of easy to work with. Her session actually whom he has been lucky enough to work with like Christopher De Leon Anti-Willie Revillame posters and Dawn Zulueta, whom he met while filming last years Metro Manila Film sprout in Cebu Fest entry Magkaibigan. “It was a great responsible for putting up the anti- experience for me to be working with Revillame posters. They suspect that them because they give me advice on the culprits are not residents of how to attack my role. Like in Barangay Kamputhaw. Underage, Tita Sylvia Sanchez gives Village chairman Dondon Donaldo me pointers and some tips sa acting assured that his men would double their tapos masaya ako if it’s just one take efforts in patrolling the area to catch the lang for that scene. Tapos ang ganda culprits and avoid a repeat of the nung eksena. So natuwa naman ako incident. dun. In Magkaibigan, I played the role In Underage, AJ plays the role of As of posting time, it is not year of Tito Christopher’s son. Medyo good guy Gary, who pretends to be clear whether the incident was nahiya ako kasi si Christopher de Leon gay in order to get close to his crush connected to the latest Pulse Asia na yun eh, ang tagal na niya dito sa Corazon, played by Lauren Young. AJ survey results showing Revillame as industriya na ito tapos he’s still here says he doesn’t mind playing a gay among those who could win a senatorial being a great actor and he still has the role since he’s comfortable with his seat if elections were held today. charisma. So it’s very inspiring to work sexuality. “I’ve done it before, pero Willie Revillame According to the Pulse Asia survey with one of the greats,” the Star Circle when I act yung pagiging bakla, hindi conducted from February 2 to 15, At least 10 posters branding Batch 13 member admits. yung kagaya ng ini-expect ng tao na Revillame, who has not yet indicated his popular "Wowowee" host Willie As part of the current series Your loud, it’s just subtle lang naman. Kasi interest in running for public office, Revillame as "Capitalist Whore" and Song Presents: Underage, AJ says he hindi naman talaga ako bakla dito eh, could land in 17th to 23rd place. "Wowpera" have mysteriously appeared Recently, the popular "Wowowee" enjoys the opportunity to work with a nagpre-pretend lang. Napanuod ko on Escarrio Street, Barangay host was named the most powerful whole new set of actors. “It’s really yung original na Underage sa YouTube Kamputhaw in Cebu City. entertainer in local show business by different kasi unang-una, I’m working tapos recently pinanuod ko rin yung Village officials said they are still entertainment magazine YES! a with a totally different cast. Even Milk. Bakla si Sean Penn dun. Pero facing a blank wall on who might be www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 19 Juday, Ryan move wedding date Charice denies Oprah is at saka wedding nung brother ni Rye, adopting her so napag-usapan 'yon. Pero malas daw kasi sa Chinese ang May 4, she would be adopted by Oprah. parang it means death. Napag- “Hindi naman totoo 'yan, natutuwa usapan yon, pero hindi na siya May lang si Ms. Oprah sa akin pero wala 4.” naman akong nabalitaan na ganun. But not to worry. “Mangyayari po Ang alam ko na nagdyo-joke ng this year, hindi na rin naman tayo ganyan ay si Sir David Foster. May bumabata, ngayong taong 'to limang daughters siya, niloloko niya na magiging 31 na rin naman ako,” she ako raw ang pang-anim. Si Ms. Oprah assured her fans and friends. naman talaga, tumutulong siya sa mga Asked which months are bata kaya minsan naiisip nila na 'Baka considered lucky by feng shui ia-adopt na nito si Charice.' Kung experts, she said, “Ang nababasa ko mangyayari yun, dapat kasama ang lang September, November, and mommy pati kapatid ko.” August yung mga suwerteng month. The diminutive singer will soon Yun yung mga nabasa ko sa feng launch her international album. shui, pero sa amin ni Ryan, hindi ko “Happy yung feeling pero sa alam [kung susundin namin]. Siguro project na ito, masasabi ko na isa ito Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo yung date lang kung sakali kasi yung sa pinakamahirap na gagawin ko, kasi month fate na rin naman yun, e, di bukod sa debut album ko ito, whole Okay, Judy Ann Santos and Ryan ba?” Charice Pempengco world po ito ibebenta. Mamimili na Agoncillo are not tying the knot on kami ng ng mga songs, pag nakapili Juday reiterated their desire to Singing sensation Charice has May 4 but the wedding will definitely na kami, diretso na kami sa recording. have a simple, solemn and very denied rumors that Oprah Winfrey is be this year. This was confirmed by Umabot lang po ito ng gold, okey na elegant wedding. her manager and that the Queen of Juday herself, who admitted earlier sa akin, masayang-masaya na ako She confirmed that Sharon Talk is adopting her. reports that she and Ryan were dun.” Cuneta will be the matron of honor “Ang manager ko ay yung initially considering May 4 for their Her recent gigs in the US were while Dondi, Ryan’s brother, will be manager ni Andrea Bocelli,” she wedding date. But they changed their during the birthday party of a Sony the best man. It’s her older brother clarified. “Si Ms. Oprah ang nagmo- mind when they learned that the date Pictures executive and in one of the Jeffrey, not her father, who will give monitor ng career ko, siya yung connotes death in the Chinese after-parties at the Oscar's Awards her away to the groom. . nagsasabi kung ano ang dapat kong calendar. Night. And she couldn’t wait to have a gawin, kung ano ang ayaw niya, siya “Napag-usapan 'yon before,” she Fox News predicted that Charice baby immediately. “Ako, ideally, I yung nagmo-monitor. Kumbaga siya told reporters. “Dahil bandang May would be one of the three shining stars wanna get pregnant as soon as yung tumutulong, siya yung nagsasabi din, first week of May yung wedding in 2009 – British actor Robert possible because I'm not getting any kay Sir David Foster kung ano ang nung parents ni Rye [Ryan Agoncillo] Pattinson, 2009 Oscar Best Actress younger.” a mga dapat kong gawin sa career ko.” winner Kate Winslet and Charice. a She dismissed the loose talk that Pops Fernandez shocked by her Kris Aquino and Boy Abunda share breakup with Jomari Yllana showbiz explosives daily! Pops mutually decided to go on separate ways. sizzle with the hottest and freshest But Pops kept mum about this showbiz scoops daily! "mutual decision" when she was Hosted by undisputed King and asked by Ricky. Like Jomari, she also Queen of Talk, Boy Abunda and Kris doesn't know the possible cause of Aquino, SNN will feed viewers with up- their breakup. to-date intrigues, unknown celebrity "I didn't expect it, I didn't see it facts, behind-the-scene drama and coming," stated Pops. "Maybe it was inside information that they are dying due to pressures before, during, and to know. All these delivered fresh, hot after the concert. I don't know. I am and fast! clueless." (The concert Pops was Kirs Aquino & Boy Abunda Showbiz explosives ignite as Kris and Boy deliver news not just by the referring to was Missing You, her Filipinos all over the world get reunion concert with ex-husband hour but by the minute on Showbiz their daily dose of showbiz news and News Ngayon, only on TFC. Martin Nievera.) lifestyle as ABS-CBN’s first primetime Pops Fernandez & Jomari Yllana For more updates, log on to On the other hand, Jomari already entertainment news show, Showbiz clarified that the reunion concert of www.abs-cbnglobal.com. a "Sa totoo lang, I was shocked," New Ngayon (SNN), makes television Pops and Martin, which was held last says Pops Fernandez in her post- February 6 at the Araneta Coliseum, breakup interview with entertainment had nothing to do with their breakup. columnist Ricky Lo. Pops's boyfriend, "Hindi naging issue o problema sa Jomari Yllana, confirmed the breakup amin yung reunion concert. Masaya two days ago by citing their "irreconcilable differences" as one of kami pareho sa outcome no'n. In fact, the possible reasons. breaking all the records sa local "Hurting but healing." This was [concert scene] yung Missing You, how the Concert Queen Pops and we're happy about it. Walang Fernandez described her current immediate na plano para sa repeat, status in an interview with kasi nga na-break mo na yung record, entertainment columnist Ricky Lo, e. Parang hindi maganda kung which was published in his "Funfare" magre-repeat pa," he told PEP. column in Philippine Star today, Despite the sad ending of their March 5. nearly three-year romance, Pops still Two days after Jomari Yllana managed to show courage in coping confirmed their breakup, Pops said: with the breakup. "Sa totoo lang, I was shocked." "I can manage, I can take care of It would be recalled that in a myself. I was shocked for only a few phone interview with PEP contributor days. Yes, as I've said, I'm still hurting Rey Pumaloy, Jomari admitted that it but I am healing," said Pops. a has been two weeks since he and www.filipinostar.org March 2009 20 The North American Filipino Star Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.19 Heart isn’t ready to fall in love Marian: ‘I’m only human’ again Heart, who turned 24 last everything I buy is truly useful.” Valentine’s Day, broke off with her She’s really quite practical, unlike boyfriend of seven months, Francisco her TV alter ego, the flighty and flaky Delgado, last January. But she does Proserfina of the Kapuso network’s not want to discuss it in public. new prime time series, “Ang Babaeng “Actually, coz he comes from a Hinugot sa Aking Tadyang.” very private family, I don't wanna keep “Challenging,” she described the on talking about it. Ayoko namang new soap. “More mature and a bit sabihin nila na. . . but you know that's sexy. I’m not api-apihan here. life, the only constant thing is change. Proserfina is a fighter.” To be sure, Heart is not wanting in She said Proserfina possessed admirers. For starters, there’s Dennis traits both lovable and loathsome. “I Trillo, who has publicly declared he can’t relate with her because I’m a has a big crush on the actress. Heart homebody. Proserfina is footloose. But and Dennis were slated to appear she’ll do anything for her family.” together for the first time in a new soap Actually, there’s is talk that fans for GMA-7 but it was abruptly find the daring soap too drastic a cancelled after Heart’s manager, departure. Annabelle Rama, complained about Marian said she and the network Heart Evangelista the assigned time slot. execs constantly listen to audience Asked to name the five sexiest Marian Rivera feedback. Heart Evangelista is still smarting male stars today, she named Sam from another failed relationship and Milby, John Lloyd Cruz, Richard The last few months have been “We always have meetings to discuss says she is not ready to fall in love Gutierrez, Dennis Trillo and Aljur stressful for Marian Rivera, who which direction to take next.” again soon. Abrenica. a continues to parry rumors that she In one story conference, for stole Dingdong Dantes from Karylle instance, they decided to “soften” and that she’s not the sweet martyr she Proserfina’s brashness. “We will show Martin admits trying to save played on GMA 7 drama shows her back story so that people will “Marimar” and “Dyesebel.” understand her. That’s what viewers marriage seem to want -- seeing me When the going gets tough, settled for the ones we feel na dapat ay persecuted.” Marian gets a massage. At a recent irecord. We save the rest for the next Marian also got the chance to gathering with the press, the actress album. We also give in to requests show a more vulnerable side after she said she has learned to be kind to from fans who want a particular song was deluged with negative publicity herself. included. “ resulting from the Dingdong-Karylle “I used to think only of work and For Always marks Martin's 27th as split-up. business ventures,” she confessed. a recording artist. It kicks off with the At the height of the controversy, “Now, I’ve learned to reward myself for single, "Maybe This Time," originally she recalled, “A lot of press people told my hard work.” Last time she did, she popularized by Michael Murphy during me to ignore the intrigues and not to went on a trip to Guam. the 80s. be too palaban.” “I bought a Chanel bag and Without any doubt, the CD is a trip She said she listened to all the shoes,” she related. “Among the down memory lane. There are liner advice. “I’m only human. I accept designer labels, I only go for Gucci, notes in the album which Martin constructive criticism, but I also get Chanel and Louis Vuitton.” himself wrote wherein he shares hurt and fight back if I’m stepped on.” But she hastened to add that she’s personal thoughts about every song. no shopaholic. “I make sure that “Every song has a story to tell. KC Concepcion is grateful but Putting them all together would sum up the story of my life. As a rule, I wants to make her own name in always keep a journal and jot down little piece of events. It should come in showbiz Martin Nivera handy one day when I decide to write Concert king and now my autobiography. Where would you compared to her mom, Sharon acknowledged King of Remakes want me to start? Sa downfall agad ng Cuneta. Martin Nievera has recorded his new aking marriage?,” he said with a poker KC thinks that she has finally album under Polyeast Records to face. moved slightly away from her mom’s which he has pledged his allegiance If and when Martin writes his shadow after the phenomenal by exclaiming, "I will never move on to “memoirs,” we are positively sure it will success of her movie with Richard another recording company." It is be a sell-out because he is a frank Gutierrez titled “When I Met You.” She entitled For Always featuring classic person who calls a spade a spade. His even commented that Sharon and songs from the 80s and the 90s. humor might even be mistaken for Kiko were very proud of her and that Does he mind being called king of something else. When he told us in her movie reminds them of Sharon’s remakes or revivals? passing how he tried to “repair” his movies which made big hits in the “Not at all because this trend has marriage with a pastor at their side, we 80’s. been going on for quite sometime. I could only presume the different Although KC has emerged with a grew up listening to songs like "The reaction he will get from his ex-wife lot of better young actresses her age, Nearness of You" or "Misty." I like once she hears his story. she has always been humble and Anyway, back to the songs of KC Concepcion singing these songs because they are readily accepted her capabilities since simple and meaningful. We don't come yesteryears. Choice cuts include: Now “Ang hirap lang minsan parang she does not have all the experiences out with magical songs like this. Ang and Forever, Old Photographs, All at palagi kaming kinu-compare. Mommy the other lady actresses have had. mga notes ngayon ng kanta eh halu- Once, Sometimes When We Touch, ko sya at ang laki ng respeto ko sa “Alam kong mas maraming halo and it is hard to follow their rhythm Heaven (and Everything I Do,I Do It for mommy ko. Sana huwag na lang experience ang ibang artistang kung meron man. The songs of you) and The Search is Over to name a kaming i-compare, di ba? I mean, 30 kaedad ko ngayon na hindi pa kilala yesteryears are so romantic you feel few. years na rin po ang experience nya. ang pagkatao ko talga. Pero pati sila, proud choosing one and dedicating it No love duet with Pops Fernandez Ako, ilang taon ko pa lang at marami may judgment. Pero, it’s okay. I mean, to your girlfriend.” with whom he got reunited even pa rin po akong pagdadaanan.” sobrang grateful lang na naa- How do you choose which songs through a Valentine concert? These are the exact words of KC ppreciate naman ng tao ang effort ko to include in the album? They sung Reunited, a ballad Concepcion when asked about her na gumawa ng mabuting work sa “We list down as many as we about lovers getting back which was done by Peaches and Herb in the 80’s. feelings whenever she is being trabahong ‘to.”a could and the list could really be long. Then we started crossing out until we www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 21 Ara admits P1.8 M debt to Francis Magalona passed away Cristine (October 4, 1964 -March 6, 2009), one of the Philippines’ successful Master own instead of making it Rapper. He is also popularly known as the “King of Pinoy Rap” and is one of public. the most idolized, and celebrated Ara explains that she influential rappers in the country. borrowed money from Cristine Reports are coming in that he died of leukemia Friday Mar 6, 2009 at the when she ran out of cash Medical City in Mandaluyong. The during the production of the popular Rapper-Eat Bulaga TV Host has movie, Ate for her own outfit. It been fighting leukemia since 2008. At 44 years of age, we bid Francis was, after all, Cristine's Francis Durango Magalona Magalona goodbye. We also like to launching movie which express our condolences to his family. a unfortunately, didn't make it at the box-office. In any case, Ara Nora to make a comeback promises to settle this as soon Nangarap na Maging Nora Aunor. This as she gets her fees from US movie is the first time we’re successful.” GMA7 where she has projects There are also persistent reports now. that the original Superstar will do two Aside from two teleseryes, other mvie projects. The first one is said to be an epic film with award-winning she might go back to Bubble independent filmmaker Lav Diaz. Ara Mina Gang where she was a The second project will reportedly mainstay for several years cast her in the lead role in the planned Ara Mina is surprised that film adaptation of the first novel by before she decided to jump to the P1.8 million she owes her acclaimed scriptwriter Ricky Lee. Titled ABS-CBN. She just doesn't sister Cristine Reyes could Para Kay B, the novel has become a know if she will still be bestseller after it was launched in cause so much talk. In the first welcomed with open arms by November last year. place, she never denied that Subtitled O Paano Dinevastate ng her co-stars. and she has no intention of Nora Aunor is staging a comeback Pag-Ibig ang 4 Out Of 5 Sa Atin, the Ara admits that Cristine is via a film to be directed by Celso Ad. novel is the first of its kind in the running away from it. What now asking her money back Castillo. The news was announced by Philippines because it doesn’t follow the she's just wondering about is Castillo, who said the movie, to be shot usual novel format with a beginning, as the latter plans to buy a how it came out in the open, in the US, is entitled Do Filipinos Cry in middle and end. condo for herself. Well, we America? La Aunor and Lee had worked since only she and Cristine can't blame Cristine if she “There have been many attempts, together in numerous award-winning knew about it. Still, no matter as early as the 1970s, for us to work movies, including Himala, which CNN really needs the money, but what happens, they are sisters together,” Castillo told the Philippine adjudged as one of the greatest Asian maybe she should give Ara Daily Inquirer. “One project was movies. 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www.filipinostar.org 22 The North American Filipino Star March 2009 BIDA march is largest vs. illegal drugs – Guinness

The Grand Batang Iwas Droga "This is the time to take a stand (BIDA) rally staged on Saturday as a nation," Genuino said. "By made it to the Guinness World participating in the Grand BIDA Records (formerly the Guinness March, we do not only show the Book of World Records) as entire nation, but the whole world "Largest March Against Illegal that Filipino people are one against Drugs." the fight versus illegal drugs. Let us BIDA was participated in by work together to make our country tens of thousands of public school a safer place to live. We owe it to children accompanied by their our children and to future parents and teachers. Many generations." celebrities also joined the march, BIDA Foundation corporate acknowledging their responsibility secretary Josephine Evangelista to serve as role models of the explained that the march was all youth. about creating awareness. BIDA is a massive information "We want to grab the public’s campaign launched in 2003 to attention not only locally but in a educate children between 6 and 12 global scale," she said. "The march years old on the dangers of is a massive event in which our substance abuse. President Gloria Thousands of participants are seen as they take part in an anti-drug campaign in schoolchildren will play a vital role Macapagal Arroyo then lead the Luneta, Metro Manila March 21, 2009. A government campaign directed at youths in leading a battle cry against oath taking of thousands of attempted to create a Guinness World Record for the first and biggest march against illegal drugs. Our children want to children into the BIDA Kids Club. illegal drugs. win this war and this is their Guinness representatives venue." awarded the certificate at about Saturday's march took a lot of 5:30 p.m. to Chairman Efraim coordination to pull off. Genuino of the Philippine Spearheaded by Pagcor and the Amusement and Gaming BIDA Foundation, it had the Corporation (Pagcor), who support from various government received in on behalf of Pagcor agencies and nongovernment and the BIDA Foundation. organizations, like the Department Representing Guinness were of Education, the Philippine Drug adjudications executive Lucia Enforcement Agency, and the Sinigagliesi from Italy and digital Dangerous Drugs Board. content manager Denise Anlander. The Department of Pagcor vice president for Transportations and corporate communications Dodie Communications provided free King said the exact number of MRT and LRT rides for all marchers would be announced registered participants and the later. Department of Public Works and "We are very excited because Highways allowed BIDA to make this is a statement to the world that use of their railings apart and we Filipinos made to the world provided at least 1,800 volunteers. record as the first nation to do and A soldier throws confetti onboard on a helicopter while hovering over a crowd of Maynilad help provide free this is a stand that we are against thousands who joined an anti-drugs gathering in Rizal park in Manila March 21, water stations in the area, while the drugs," King said. 2009. Philippine Charity Sweepstakes The BIDA march started at 1 Office (PCSO) provided medical p.m. with the assembly point set at marchers passed by Rajah where a program and free concert volunteers and set up first-aid Sulayman Park to be scanned and featuring some of the country’s the Cultural Center of the booths. a Philippines. From there, the counted before proceeding to the hottest bands and young stars Quirino Gandstand at the Luneta were held.

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www.filipinostar.org March 2009 The North American Filipino Star 23 ex-Philippine leader in hot Sharon buys P3-M bag to water for replica gun reward self Disgraced former Philippine herself for working so hard in the president Joseph Estrada is being industry for 30 years. investigated after he was allegedly “Pwede na ‘yon ipamana seen riding around town in a jeep ngayon,” she said. with a replica machine-gun mounted Aside from bags, the megastar on top, police officials said. is also into collecting books, National police chief Director magazines and DVDs. General Jesus Verzosa said they Daughter KC Concepcion, were looking into the possibility of meanwhile, said her mother charging Mr Estrada with violating “earned it.” laws against the brandishing of guns, “She earned it. She worked all including replicas, in public. her life… it’s not like [gastos lang "Our legal people are studying siya ng gastos] may katumbas [din the matter," Mr Verzosa said. naman] na goodwill,” Concepcion Mr Estrada's companion in the jeep, opposition leader Jejomar said. Binay, who is Mayor of Manila's Cuneta is not the only one financial district of Makati, may also splurging these days. During her be charged, he added. Sharon Cuneta birthday celebration, Anne Curtis The replica machine-gun has was wearing a headband designed already been surrendered to local For her hard work in the past by Jennifer Behr that reportedly police, Mr Verzosa said. 30 years in show business, costs P35,000. Nicole Ritchie, Mr Estrada, unseated in a Former Philippine president Joseph megastar Sharon Cuneta has Sophia Bush and Natalie Portman popular uprising in 2001, was later Estrada, seen here trying out a grenade rewarded herself with a designer were some of the big personalities sentenced to life in prison for launcher captured from Muslim rebels in bag that costs millions of pesos. who have worn the expensive corruption but was pardoned in 2007 November 2000, is being investigated Cuneta’s Hermes Birkin bag is headband. a by the woman who deposed him, after he was allegedly seen riding around worth P3 million. It is made from President Gloria Arroyo. Manila in a jeep with a replica crocodile skin. The luxury item But the former movie star still machinegun mounted on top, police would add to Cuneta’s collection of officials have said. retains a large following and has bags. She said she decided to buy hinted that he may run again for the item when someone reminded president in the 2010 elections. a her that it was about time to reward The North American Filipino Star March 2009 24 Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career.

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