Volume XXVII No. 1 January 2009 www.filipinostar.org RP Optimistic about Obama MANILA, Philippines—Faced among [Filipino] health workers with heavy job losses in export- because [the United States] needs oriented industries, especially them.” electronics and garments, the Improving health care along Philippines can find hope in labor with expanding renewable energy is policies to be set by new US President among the initiatives that Obama is Barack Obama that may give Filipinos pushing as he seeks to build public a chance of working in the United support for an $825-billion economic States, according to the Overseas recovery plan. Workers Welfare Administration In his weekly radio address on (OWWA). Saturday, he pledged to use the fund “We are hoping that there to create jobs. would be new policies that would help Saying more people filed for hasten migration, particularly for unemployment this week than at any [professionals in the] health sector, time in the past 26 years, Obama because the Philippines has a bigger warned joblessness could hit double chance [of finding] employment in this digits and the economy could fall $1 sector,” OWWA Administrator trillion short of its full capacity if Carmelita Dimzon told reporters in nothing was done. Baguio City on Friday. Obama said the economic Dimzon said the United States, January 20, 2009 at 12 noon, the 44th president of the United States, recovery plan would save or create 3 where about two million Filipinos live Barack Obama, put his hand on the Bible that Abraham Lincoln used on million to 4 million jobs while investing March 4, 1861, and took his oath of office in front of the Chief Justice of and work, was still the top destination in clean energy development, the US Supreme Court, John Roberts, while Michele and their two for nurses and Filipino migrants. education and improving health care daughters looked on amidst an approximate crowd of 2 million people at efficiency. “The United States has a great the National Mall in Washington, DC. need for health care because of [its] Jobs lost daily aging population. [It needs] more United States was carrying out belt- million jobs last year, the highest yearly In the Philippines, hundreds of nurses and the Philippines has tightening measures, she had yet to job loss since 1945. One bright spot workers are losing their jobs daily, become a good source of manpower,” hear about the displacement of Filipino was the health care sector, which mostly in the electronics industry, she said. migrants. added 372,000 jobs. which has suffered from plunging Manuela Peña, OWWA Suffering from a shrinking Peña expressed confidence See Page 4 Obama Cordillera director, noted that while the economy, the United States shed 2.6 “that there will be no retrenchment Stephen Harper meets the ethnic media Montreal, January 9, 2009 - A Contents round table conference with the ethnic media was one of the pre-budget Cooperative News ...... p. 3 consultations that the Prime Minister made during his visit to Montreal. Tourism ...... p. 6 Earlier in the day, he met with CEOs of major businesses. The business Global Perspectives . . . . p. 10 executives who met with Harper included Pierre Beaudoin of Philippine Cuisine . . . . . p. 11 Bombardier Inc. and Power Corp's Paul Demarais. Sources inside the meeting Filstar Photo Gallery . p. 12,13 say Bombardier pushed for high speed train service between several Quebec and Ontario cities, while other leaders Home Business ...... p. 14 urged the government to reinvest in the Employment Insurance program. Showbiz Gossip ...... p. 18 A random selection of questions from the ethnic press was Classified Ads ...... p. 21 conducted by a moderator. and they were mostly informational. Many of the journalists’ questions were about the Prime Minister Stephen Harper flanked by Senator Leo Housakos, and Federal Minister for increasing unemployment. The Prime Public Works Christian Paradis, listens intently to a question during the press conference See Page 4 Ethnic Press held with the ethnic media, January 9, 2009 at the Queen Elizabeth Hotel.

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www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star January 2009

Marché Coop Filipino The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative EDITORIAL 4711 Van Horne Avenue Montreal, QC H3W 1H8 Will Barack Obama’s leadership open Tel.: 514-733-8915 the door to world peace? E-Mail: [email protected] Until now, after over three research, we could also find solutions Come and visit us for our months, the Obama story is still the to our economic crisis by working topic of conversations, and all kinds of together. IN STORE SPECIALS people are expressing their great It may be a controversial move admiration, enthusiasm and optimism when President Obama allowed himself Gift baskets, gift certificates about the future. The economy may be to be interviewed by Moslem media but in a dire strait but it has not dampened this certainly shows how sincere he is available for all occasions. the spirit of people who believe in in his desire to open the channels of change. Yes, we can, and now we will. communication with those who have It just proves once more that Barack grudges against the United States. He Obama’s incredible rise to power from has said that he wants to be president humble beginnings has inspired many, of all, and he wants to know what is even those who are not from the black causing the great divide between community. His inauguration was countries and among people. watched around the world, attended by It is said that the only constant more than two million people, and his thing is change itself, but we still do not speech surely was heard loud and seem to feel it happening until a clear. He recognized the many historical event has transpired like challenges he and the nation face but Barack Obama’s election as the first he is not daunted by the size of the African-American president of the problems before him. He sounded United States. He made the word strong, confident, and true to his belief “change” a powerful slogan for his that by working together, America can campaign, and it is now the same be great once more and lead the world slogan that may lead us all to be pro- into prosperity and freedom. He calls active in our daily life. Mr. Obama this period of history the new era of conducted himself, not as a black responsibility. person but as a man with vision. He It is too early to know if inspired young people to go out and President Obama will achieve all that vote. Because of his experience as a he wants to achieve, But from what he community organizer he knew how to has said and done, the world seems to mobilize people in the grassroots level have a lot of reasons to hope for a to act. Hopefully, he will continue to better world, one that will be governed carry the same idea into the other wisely and justly, If leaders both in things he must do to make people America and anywhere else around the follow him specially those who have world will take a lead from his example, been against the ideals of democracy. we will all be encouraged to choose not President Obama also has the easiest path but the right one to get shown decisiveness and determination to where we want to go. If we in his leadership role. He did not waste follow the news closely and listen to all any time at all. A day after his kinds of people, both in favor or against inauguration, he signed executive the policies of the new administration, orders that he believes will be the we can detect that there is a vibrant starting point - to make sure that there move to find solutions to all the are strong guidelines to be followed in problems we all face. There is a feeling the White House. He calls it of goodwill, even though politics still “transparency”, and a high standard seem to play a role in the debates in the code of ethics. How we wish that this legislative bodies. It is not easy to was done, too, by our Philippine capture the essence of the moment in a president when she first assumed few words but we seem to feel that power in Malacanang Palace. It could there is a real change going on that will have been a significant step in the dramatically result in a “paradigm eradication of corruption in the We sell fresh vegetables weekly. shift”. Taking the example from the top, government. Order lechon for Saturday pick up but we need at least we no longer have to do things the old It has been only a week since fashion way, Instead, we have to see President Obama came into power but a minimum order of 15 lbs by Thursday. the world under a new light. New it seems that many things have been Call us at 514-733-8915 to place your orders. sources of energy must be found in done. At the rate he is going, and the order to save the earth from further passion and commitment he is damage from polluti on caused by the showing, his popularity may influence old industries. As President Obama enough people to make world peace a said, if we had been able to put the first reality. man on the moon after 10 years of Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi The North American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Tel.: 514-485-7861 (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Name ______Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Hilda T. Veloso Jean Janete Aguilar Chief Editor & Publisher Address: ______Jerry Estrada Community News ______Lina V. Fernandez Sam Ferry Mary Joy Lizarondo Dr. Victor Gavino Assistant Editor Sports News Telephone: Residence: ______Office: ______News & Tourism Prof. Isaac Goodine Nida Verginom Butaran Subscribers can give a gift subscription at 1 year (12 issues) $20 Alvin D. Veloso Bert Abiera Sales Representative 10% discount. Contributors Founder Please use the same form and indicate it 2 years (24 issues) $35 is a gift subscription. Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 3 Filipinos who do not seem to enjoy 0610-07 - Kelly, Vilma reading in general. Moreover, most We have many names in our COOPERATIVE NEWS readers turn to the entertainment page list who have partially paid their and look at pictures but once they see membership but we are not sure if they a long article, they tend not to read it. are still interested to continue as we To unite our community is This is why I still go out of my way to have lost track of their new address talk to each person I meet. I try to and telephone number. If these people not an impossible dream explain the concept of a cooperative - can be contacted and they agree to Recently, a Filipino-Canadian time of struggle, there is no more why it is good for the community, now continue to pay their balances, we will and the future. be happy to include them as active community leader came to visit the turning back. I know that I have an I would like to ask our readers owner-members of the Cooperative Filipino Coop. I thought he would say uphill battle but I do not feel that I to give us a feedback on how we can and they will certainly help us in our some encouraging words but what I should give up at all. as I believe that make people patronize the Filipino effort of making sure we have more heard was quite disheartening. He for every problem there is a solution. It Coop. In our last meeting of the board merchandise to sell to our members. stated that I would never be able to may only take time to find it but I know of directors, we have discussed a plan The following is the balance of unite the community. According to that with the help of the board of to have different types of membership. our list of NOT FULLY PAID members him, I would probably end up like my directors and other active members of Instead of having only two types, (except if there are errors or omissions father who died before he could the Coop, we could make history, just shareholder-members and member unknown at the time of publication in achieve his final goal of defending like Barrack Obama did for being the worker, we will also have honorary which case, please let us know). those he believed were unjustly treated first African-American to be elected members and user members. The fee 0082-05 - Cabantac, Ariel by the government. Perhaps, he has a president of the most powerful nation structure will also change to reflect the 0525-06 - Cabauatan, Catherine point as obviously, it is hard to on earth. How did he do it? He did not true benefits of membership in each 0367-06 - Caberto, Remedios convince everyone to join the Filipino make any excuse for himself - he just category. For example, honorary 0489-06 - Cachero, Myrna Coop and support it. He, for one, is went ahead with doing what he knew members may be considered as 0374-06 - Cada. Emelita still balking at the idea. It is no surprise needed to be done. His example benefactors who can give more than 0110-05 - Calamba, Dominador that he has this attitude. Fortunately, actually should inspire us all - never to the regular amount of $100 for 0268-05 - Calope, Paciencia not everyone is like this man. In make any short cuts but to work as membership shares at their discretion. 0254-05 - Calpito, Maxima contrast to his point of view, there are hard as we can in order to achieve or But we need to clarify the duties and 0207-05 - Camangonan, Conie Jane many people who are slowly realizing fulfill a dream. Yes, we can, and we will privileges of this type of membership. 0274-05 - Cambia, Danilo that the Filipino Coop is showing signs change the old mentality of our fellow As far as user members are 0276-05 - Campanero,Marilyn of progress and that it is not citizens, even if it takes another 100 concerned, they will be able to buy 0002-05 - Candilosas, Ma. Marilou impossible to make it work. Of course, years. I could pass on but I am from the Coop but they need to renew 0164-05 - Canivel, Rosario we cannot avoid the so called optimistic that someone else will take their membership annually and cannot 0039-05 -Carcillar, Desiree “detractors” who pass rumours and my place one day. Those who are still vote during regular membership 0499-06 - Carcillar, Donna remarks unfavorable to me personally waiting to see the failure of the Coop meetings. The stockholder members 0102-05 - Carreau, Alicia as they are trying to undermine my will be waiting forever and they will be who paid $100. are owners of the 0214-05 - Carreau, Michel efforts. They belong to the “old the real losers for missing the Cooperative and are entitled to vote at 0475-06 - Carrillo, Leo school of thought that is based on a opportunity to do something general assemblies, can run for 0560-06 - Casacop, Enriqueta “crab mentality.” worthwhile and meaningful for which directroship after being a member for 0460-06 - Castillo de Ramos, Marilyn With the cooperation of like- they could be remembered. When the one year and also receive patronage 0045-05 - Castillo, Ginabe del minded generous people, we could do time comes to ask themselves what dividends when the Coop becomes 0366-06 - Castillo, Gloria the seemingly impossible task of they have done with their lives, what profitable. Those without any 0461-06 - Castillo, Lauro making the Coop a successful will be the answer? membership card will still be able to 0042-05 - Castillo, Lei Mark cooperative enterprise. After all, our The time to start working buy from the Coop at a different price 0283-05 - Castillo, Nancy community is not only composed of a together is NOW. We should leave a but without the prospect of receiving 0284-05 - Castillo, Ronaldo dozen people but 12000 individuals in legacy to our children, and that of our dividdends. More research must be 0112-05 - Castro, Edelyn Cote des Neiges alone. If we could children’s children. The Filipinos in done in order to have a fair and 0545-06 - Castro, Judith mobilize even 20-30% of this Montreal should be an example to equitable distribution of benefits to the 0557-06 - Cauilan, Olivia population, we could make the Coop others in other parts of the world. different types of memberships. 0336-06 - Cebu, Ma. Charito work for the benefit of the whole Ambassador Brillantes has always Our newest members are: 0067-05 - Celis, Marydel community. alluded to the Red Deer, Alberta 0676-08 - Aquino, Jerico Octavo 0540-06 - Cericos, Susan If there is any doubt in community. The Filipinos there had 0677-09 - Melendrez, Armando 0399-06 - Chavez, Nenita anyone’s mind about my motivation, already decided to work together. Why There are members who 0537-06 - Chu, Mary Lyne let me make it clear that I did not get not in Montreal? We have a lot to gain signed up in 2007 whose names have ______- Codera, Ma. Marilie involved in saving the coop to be a by doing so. The Cooperative is one of not yet been published:, some are fully 0323-06 - Cornejo, Marites popular figure. I already have enough the best ways to help one another by paid, some are partially paid: 9472-06 - Corpuz, Melo Jane in my hands being the editor and making it possible to purchase goods 0596-07 - Tabunar, Caridad 0170-05 - Corpuz, Nelia publisher of a newspaper and the at a lower price for our own 0597-07 - Bernardo, Jasmira Mayo 0272-05 - Cortes, Gracita founder and director of a private consumption. We can also make it 0598-07 - Villanueva, Magdalena 0081-05 - Cosejo, Linda college. That should be enough if I just possible to create jobs for both our 0599-07 - Haydock, Janet 0573-06 - Cruz, Emmanuel want to feed my own ego. But it was young people and newcomers from 0600-07 - Gabriel, Zenaida 0068-05 - Cruz, Lucia out of my sincere desire to help my the Philippines but in order to be an 0601-07 - Ward, David 0437-06 - Cubero, Zoilo fellow citizens. I felt I could help out effective organization, the Cooperative 0602-07 - Monteagudo, Remedios 0004-05 - Danglio, Zenaida and I would have had guilt feelings if I must have a bigger and more active 0603-07 - Mamauag, Lorelly 0303-05 - Dayo, Rafael did not lift a finger when I knew I could. membership in order to have an 0604-07 - Francisco, Eleuisa 0095-05 - De Guzman, Ma. Cristina I believe there is no greater evil than to impact on the political and economic 0605-07 - Raquepo, Carmela 0353-06 - De Guzman, Ma. Teresa stand idly by in the face of other life of the community. 0606-07 - Aplaon, Marilou V. 0454-06 - Dejillo, Romeo people’s need. The Coop could have Those who used to read this 0607-07 - Pelausa, Natalie V. 0346-06 - De la Cruz, Catherine closed down more than two years ago column faithfully have already been 0608-07 - Pelausa, Jesus (Dr.) 0550-06 - De la Cruz, Christopher if I did not go to the bank to get an convinced to be a member, but 0609-07 - Pelausa, Ermelinda (Dr.) (paid in full June 21/08) operating credit line. But after all this unfortunately there are still too many The North American Filipino Star January 2009 4 From Page 1 - Obama sa Calabarzon confirmed the layoffs in Amkor, IMI as well as in Laguna BUDGET 2009: CANADA’S global demand, according to the labor Electronics Inc. Ramil Cangayao of the department. Last week, US chip labor group said some 3,000 workers of maker Intel Corp. announced it would ECONOMIC ACTION PLAN IMI remained jobless after being sent on close down a testing plant in Cavite an early vacation in December last year. tOttawa, January 27, 2009 low-income Canadians, seniors, persons province with 1,800 workers. with disabilities and Aboriginal Canadians, “The early holiday break was The Honourable Jim Flaherty, Labor Secretary Marianito and low-cost loans to municipalities. supposedly due to low volume of work Minister of Finance, today tabled a Roque said some 60,000 Filipinos Action to Improve Access to resulting from the global crisis. The comprehensive budget plan to could lose their jobs this year, mainly in Financing and Strengthen Canada’s workers were asked to return to the stimulate economic growth, restore the electronics and garments sectors. Financial System factory last Jan. 6 but instead of going confidence and support Canadians Alarmed by further job cuts due Providing up to $200 billion back to their work, they were sent back and tgrowth, restore confidence and through the Extraordinary Financing to the deepening global recession, on an extended vacation since the support Canadians and their families Framework to improve access to financing several workers’ groups, including the forced leave would continue. They were during a synchronized global for consumers and allow businesses to Partido ng Manggagawa and the Trade also informed that if orders do not pick recession. obtain the financing they need to invest, Union Congress of the Philippines up by Jan. 19 then workers will be "Budget 2009 is Canada’s grow and create new jobs. (TUCP), called for a tripartite labor permanently terminated,” Cangayao economic action plan," said Minister Canada’s Economic Action Plan will conference to discuss bailout and protect Canadians hit hardest by the global said. Flaherty. "It builds on our position of rescue plans to ensure job security, recession with: The Partido ng Manggagawa strength. It provides temporary and protect wages and create new jobs for Action to Help Canadians chapter in Cebu is monitoring the labor effective economic stimulus to help those retrenched. Providing $8.3 billion for the dispute at Giardini del Sole, one of the Canadian families and businesses deal “Now is not the time for Canada Skills and Transition Strategy, biggest furniture exporting firms in the with short-term challenges. Our government to act in isolation from its which includes extra support for country, after the union filed a notice of investments will build Canada’s long- Canadians most affected by the economic constituents. We need the kind of strike following looming retrenchment term capacity, so that when the global downturn, including enhancements to consultative and open environment and work rotation. The management recession eases, we emerge even Employment Insurance and more funding prevailing in the United States to draw temporarily shut down the company on stronger." for skills and training. the best ideas from our citizens,” said Jan. 5. Canada’s Economic Action Action to Support Businesses and Susan Ople, president of the Ople Lifting ban on Iraq Communities Labor Policy Center. Plan will provide almost $30 billion in Aside from the United States, Protecting jobs and supporting Ople and a group of recruiters support to the Canadian economy this sectoral adjustments during this the OWWA is exploring the Canadian also wanted a summit to tackle the year. In total, this is equivalent to 1.9 extraordinary crisis with $7.5 billion in extra and Australian labor markets as situation of overseas Filipino workers per cent of our total economy. support for sectors, regions and possible destinations of Filipino (OFWs). The plan will stimulate the economy communities. This includes targeted workers, according to Dimzon. Amkor, Samsung, Fujitsu through: support for the auto, forestry and The Philippines is also In the Philippines, employees manufacturing sectors, as well as funding considering lifting the ban on sending for clean energy. in at least 65 large companies, mostly in Immediate Action to Build Filipino workers to Iraq. Vice President When combined with the ongoing special economic zones, are “extremely Infrastructure Noli de Castro said Sunday that the benefits of the tax reductions in the 2007 vulnerable to layoffs” due to the Expanding and accelerating lifting of the ban would come as soon Economic Statement, the Economic Action collapse of the semiconductors and the recent historic federal investment in as the safety of workers in Iraq were Plan in this budget is estimated to boost electronics export markets, according infrastructure with almost $12 billion in guaranteed. real GDP by 2.5 per cent and create or to the TUCP. new infrastructure stimulus funding for maintain about 265,000 jobs by the end of Dimzon said the Philippine By the first half of the year, roads, bridges, broadband internet 2010. government was expecting the about 40,000 workers could lose their access, electronic health records, "We are not acting alone," said continuous retrenchment of OFWs as laboratories and border crossings across jobs in the Calabarzon region, Minister Flaherty. "These actions fulfill companies and industries worldwide the country. This will support economic according to the Pagkakaisa ng Canada’s commitments to its global deal with the economic crisis. growth and employment this year and next Manggagawa sa Timog Katagalugan partners at the G20 leaders' summit to Malaysia’s decision to ban while also bolstering Canada’s long-run provide timely stimulus to domestic (Alliance of Workers in Southern foreign workers and threats of further productive capacity. demand, while maintaining long-run fiscal Tagalog, Pamantik). Calabarzon is layoffs in Macau and Taiwan where Action to Reduce Taxes and Freeze EI sustainability. composed of the provinces of Cavite, Rates many Filipinos work added to the bad Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon. Providing $20 billion in personal news on the labor front. "With this stimulus plan, Canada will Pamantik chair Romeo Legaspi income tax relief that will benefit Canadians Dimzon said OWWA’s recent emerge from this recession with a said another 2,000 regular workers in over 2008-09 and the next five fiscal years records showed that 4,042 OFWs were more modern and greener Amkor Technology Inc. would be laid off as well as continued low Employment retrenched as a result of the global infrastructure, a more skilled labour by February. Also facing layoffs are Insurance rates. economic slowdown. Most of the Action to Stimulate Housing force, lower taxes and a more workers in Samsung, Yazaki, F-Tech, workers came from Taiwan, Australia Construction competitive economy." Fujitsu, NEC, TDK and Matsushita. and the Czech Republic. Providing $7.8 billion to build Legaspi said that in Laguna, She said a global mapping quality housing, stimulate construction and For further information, media may Integrated Microelectronics Inc. (IMI), done by the Department of Labor and enhance energy efficiency. Measures which previously employed 17,000 contact: Employment showed that about 5,000 include a renovation tax credit providing an workers, mostly women, laid off 3,000 estimated 4.6 million Canadian families up OFWs face retrenchment this month. a contractual workers last month. The to $1,350 each, funding for energy retrofits, Chisholm Pothier company also implemented forced investments for social housing to support Press Secretary leaves for more than 1,000 regular workers. From Page 1 Ethnic Press Toyota, Nissan and Ford Minister stated that the government will Need Money? Starting January, Toyota Motor invest in retraining workers in high Philippines implemented a Monday-no- technology but he did not release any production day and it would specific figures in the budget. In reply Do you have a full time job? “temporarily” get rid of its 500 to a question: What do you want to see contractuals and on-the-job trainees by the media do? the Prime Minister March. expressed hope that the press also If yes, call (514) 344-1499 Nissan retrenched 40 regulars focus on good news and not only the last December and would let go of 70 bad news. more workers in February. Keihin Some of the ethnic groups Philippines plans to implement a four- represented were the Montreal black day work month this February. community, Greek, Arabic, Italian, AND GET CASH NOW! Ford now maintains only 18 Chinese, Armenian, Jewish, Filipino, employees out of the previously 400 Korean, Russian, Indian, Pakistani, workforce. Isuzu Philippines will soon Lebanese, Moroccan, Persian, etc. follow the steps of its mother company, Circulation ranges from 500 to 100 000, which displaced 30,000 Japanese weekly to quarterly. Good & Bad Credit Accepted employees. The Samahan ng Manggagawa

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 5 Office of the Minister of Finance Action to Support Businesses and 613-996-7861 Communities Death toll rises in Cavite 5,272 Jack Aubry 2,255 factory explosion Media Relations 7,527 Department of Finance The death toll in the blast that Superintendent Hernando Zafra said 613-996-8080 Sectoral leverage 1,300 hit a fireworks factory in Trece three persons were already Backgrounder Martires City, Cavite rose to two confirmed dead while 38 were Canada’s Economic Action Plan 1,300 Thursday noon, as authorities reportedly wounded in the powerful continue to battle the fire that was set blast. Canada’s Economic Action Plan is a Total federal stimulus off by an explosion. In a radio interview, Zafra balanced stimulus plan that includes 22,742 Citing initial information, Trece confrimed three bodies have already massive investments in infrastructure, 17,200 Martires City police chief been recovered from the factory but tax relief and transfers, and other new 39,942 Superintendent Reynaldo Galang did not say whether all the fatalities initiatives. said the two bodies were recovered were laborers in the factory. Total stimulus (with leverage) just outside the factory. He added "Ayon pa rin po yung bilang ng Stimulus measures in Budget 2009 will 29,298 that the bodies appeared to be those patay, tatlo po (That is still our official provide almost $30 billion in support to 22,316 of a man and a woman. count, three dead)," Zafra said, the Canadian economy this year, an 51,613 amount equivalent to 1.9 per cent of our total economy (real GDP). As a share of GDP (%)

Many of these investments are partnerships with provinces, territories and municipalities. Over the next two years, the total stimulus to the Total federal stimulus Canadian economy, including stimulus 1.5 from other levels of government, will 1.1 surpass $50 billion — an amount equal 2.5 to 3.2 per cent of real GDP. Total stimulus (with leverage) Table 1 1.9 Canada's Economic Action Plan 1.4 3.2 2009 2010 Total ------

(millions of dollars—cash basis) A Philippine National Police SWAT member points to a huge crater created by a Action to Help Canadians and Notes: Totals may not add due to fireworks explosion at a fireworks factory at Trece Martires city, Cavite province, 50 Stimulate Spending rounding. These cost estimates reflect kilometers (31 miles) south of Manila, Philippines, Thursday, Jan. 29, 2009. At least 5,880 projected cash expenditures over the 6,945 next two years. The budgetary impact six people were killed and scores injured when a powerful explosion obliterated a 12,825 is somewhat smaller because some of fireworks factory Thursday, officials said. these expenditures relate to "Isang lalaki at isang babae, sa Action to Stimulate Housing construction and renovation costs of labas lang yan (They appear to be Construction federal assets (for which only 5,365 depreciation is recorded on a the bodies of a male and a female. 2,395 budgetary basis) and loans to third That's just outside the factory)," 7,760 parties (where there is a budgetary Galang said in an interview on dzBB impact only in the event that there is a radio. Housing leverage risk of loss). "Putol-putol ang mga ito, 725 pinatawag ang SOCO para ma- 750 Fulfilling our Global Responsibilities identify (The body parts are 1,475 mangled. We have to bring in the Canada’s Economic Action Plan fulfills scene of the crime operations teams Firefighters train their hose at a still- Immediate Action to Build Canada's commitments at the recent to identify them)," he added. smoldering structure following the Infrastructure G-20 Special Leaders Summit to A separate dzBB report also said powerful explosion. 6,224 provide timely stimulus to domestic burned body parts were found in the 5,605 demand, while also maintaining long- area surrounding the Starmaker adding that the factory employs at 11,829 run fiscal sustainability. Indeed, it fireworks factory in Conchu village. least 100 people. surpasses the International Monetary On the other hand, Cavite Authorities have identified the Infrastructure leverage Fund suggestion that countries in a provincial police director Senior factory owner as Doy Tan. a 4,532 position to do so should inject fiscal 4,365 stimulus of 2 per cent of GDP to reduce 8,897 the effects of a damaging global recession. DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU

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www.filipinostar.org January 2009 6 The North American Filipino Star TOURISM L ANAO DEL NO RTE Land Of Beauty And Bounty

Tinago Falls - As literally implied, it is hidden in a deep ravine, the falls cascading beautifully into a basin-like pool, calm, deep and icy cold. It has an elevation of approximately 420 ft.

Maria Cristina Falls Iligan's greatest heritage, it is the most resplendent among the city's 20 waterfalls.

‘Dancers (top) and children (bottom) at the Lubi-lubi Festival, Linamon. Also called Hudyaka sa Lubi’, it celebrates the city’s charter day. Iligan Fiesta, these week-long festivities are held in September in the capital www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 7 The province of Lanao is located Tinago Falls is one of the most on the Northern Mindanao district beautiful falls hidden within the deep along the northwest coast of Iligan Bay. ravine. And in the town of Munai, runs The lowland peninsula gives way to a an intriguing Lidpa Subterranean River realm of hilly terrene which ascends that flows through the top of the hill in towards the mountains in the the mountain. southeast and northeast portion. The The people of Lanao celebrates rivers flows in deep interval as they Viva Sr. San Miguel every last week of cascade from the mountains going to September. This is to honor Saint the coast, constructing many waterfalls Michael the Archangel. They perform and the Maria Cristina Falls is the most dances similar to the Sinulog well-known of all. celebration. Alongside this One of the famous dish in Iligan is merrymaking, they also perform the the binaki, a grated young corn mixed Pana-ad and Yawa-yawa. Pana-ad with milk, then wrapped with fresh refers to the pledges of the loyal corncob and steamed. Other muslim- devotees of San Miguel for the favors influenced dishes are utak-utak and that were granted. And the Yawa-yawa lolot. is a miracle play performed in their Being the "Industrial Center of the native dialect, songs and dances. South", the city of Iligan housed Other popular spots include: Mt. smaller industries like steel, tinplate, Agad-Agad which served as a major pulp and paper and flourmills. lookout during the Japanese Agriculture, fishing and forestry are the Occupation. Sandayan Cave, located province’s primary source of livelihood. in the deep forest of Rorongon. It is a It is also a major producer of fruits and three-chambered cavern with stalactite commercial crops like bananas, and stalagmites looking ominous to coconut, corn and rice. stangers. Blessed with ample water You can visit Iligan City via resources, which are the province's Philippine Airlines which has a daily tourist attractions, there are 22 flight to Cagayan de Oro and from waterfalls cascading the rivers of there several buses travel the Lanao. The most famous of is the Cagayan-Iligan route. By sea, William Maria Cristina Falls with a height of 320 Lines and Gothong Lines sails from ft that plunges into the Agus River. The Manila to Iligan City. a

Dancers performing at the Lubi-Lubi Festival held in January

The many kasadaya costumes and notably headwear are stunning

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 8 The North American Filipino Star FAMAS President and Head Scout Robert Baden-Powell as an Leader Claro Bermudez leaves for educational innovator (founder of South Africa for a new job the Scouting movement) within the first few months. The ideas Montreal, January 10, 2009 - there will be another election to be held Famous for his contribution to in August 2009. As of now, we have no the development of Scouting, Baden- were seized upon by a number of Claro Bermudez called a press people working with boys and young conference to announce his move to known candidates for the leadership of Powell was also able to make a FAMAS. number of educational innovations. His men and Robert Baden-Powell was work on a big contract he has been encouraged to write a version for boys. offered by a company in Some community leaders and interest in adventure, association and members were in attendance at this leadership still repay attention today. He was also working on his own ideas Johannesburg, South Africa. Much as about education. The Boys Brigade he would like to continue with his meeting. Riza Esmeralda, being the Robert Baden-Powell, from a communication director, gave a 45- painting by David Jagger, 1929. This (founded October 4, 1883 in Glasgow mandate as president of FAMAS, he by William Smith [1854-1914) was an had to make this decision to accept an minute presentation of the happenings image (or other media file) is in the public domain because its copyright obvious place for his work - but while has expiredRobert Stephenson Smyth there were many things for Robert Baden-Powell (1857 - 1941) was an Baden-Powell to admire in their accomplished soldier who first came to activities he was put off by the wide public notice as the ‘hero of the emphasis on drill and what he saw as a Siege of Mafeking’(1899 - 1900) during lack of attention to developing the the Boer War. He is better known as the mind and sympathy with others. founder of the Boy Scout movement. Robert Baden-Powell had This achievement and his concern with become concerned about the well- 'old values' has sometimes obscured being of the nation - and of particular the innovational nature of his young people. It has been said that the educational thinking. What is poor physical condition of the young overlooked is his concern with the men attempting to join the army during social lives and imagination of young the Boer War was a central factor in his people, and how he was able to build championing and fashioning of on this to develop an associational Scouting. One report at the time (1904) educational form. Robert Baden- claimed that of every nine who Powell placed a special value on volunteered to fight, only two were fit to adventure; on children and young do so. Diet, poor housing, and harmful people working together - and taking working conditions were identified as responsibility (his 'patrol' building on contributory factors. However, he was the idea of 'natural' friendship groups equally worried about people's and 'gangs'); on developing self- physical and mental well-being. Claro Bermudez Riza Esmeralda Sarto sufficiency; and on 'learning through Physical 'deterioration' and 'moral in the FAMAS administration during the doing' (he was deeply suspicious of degeneracy' became themes in many opportunity that he could not refuse. of the talks and speeches that Robert He said that he had already postponed past year and a half. curriculum forms). In this article we Even though Mr. Bermudez will examine some of the key aspects of his Baden-Powell gave - especially in the this move because of his commitment period after the Boer War. Reflecting on to his obligations in his capacity as be away, he is still accessible to the approach. people who work with him. He Robert Baden-Powell and the early his experience of the Boys' Brigade he president. In spite of his hesitation to first thought that something could be leave, he expressed confidence in provided us with a cell number we can development of Scouting call him, and we can also send him e- In 1885 Robert Baden-Powell done within that organization to move leaving his position to be filled by the away from an over-focus on marching vice president of FAMAS, Flor Rillo, He mail messages to consult with him. He started collecting material for a book also made sure that a program for the on army scouting. Eventually and drill: said that all the projects of FAMAS are Something, I think, also [could] be already in place and he does not Scouts has been prepared before published in 1899, because of his leaving. celebrity status, it became an instant done towards developing the Boy's expect any problems to arise. The mind by increasing his powers of French program has been successfully With Mr. Bermudez departure bestseller- selling more 100,000 copies continued, a new program in computer from Montreal, the Laging Handa literacy is ready, heritage classes are Scout Group will need more Scout also being organized to teach Tagalog, volunteers. We are appealing to the OBIS on line business and the improvement of the backyard community to come forward and offer of FAMAS will be started as soon as the themselves to be leaders of the youth information is looking for sales weather improves. The City of from ages 7 to 14. The time you have to reps. Clear English speaking Montreal has approved a budget of devote to the Scouting program is two approximately $20 000 to do the hours a week every Saturday from 1 to Filipinos, hardworkers, will get construction necessary to make the 3 p.m. The activity is being held at backyard useable and add to the FAMAS during the winter, but will also paid every week on time. functionality of the building. The big be held at other places from time to trees that used to pose a hazard to time when field trips and camping are Full time positions. passersby have been cut down. organized. (Please see ad below The term of the present regarding recruitment of Scout Please contact Elvin 514-831-0940 FAMAS board will expire soon and leaders). Do you believe in the importance of MONT-CAL LOGISTICS Inc. our youth as future leaders of this 410 rue St. Jacques, Lachine H8R 2E8 country? If you do, please Tel.: 514-366-1020 FAX 514-366-1028 E-Mail: [email protected] volunteer to be a Scout leader. Call 514-485-7861 Hiring class 1 Local and Parents are urged to let their children join Scouting. February is Friendship Month Long Distance Team Drivers Bring a friend to Scouting Please contact: Mark - 514-366-1020 The Founder of Scouting was born in this month, Lord Baden Powell’s birthday is February 22.

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 9

be fairly similar in structure and activity Robert Baden-Powell in his speeches as the boys - ‘Girls must be partners to various youth groups and and comrades rather than dolls’ (Jeal organizations had been encouraging 1989: 470). (Details of Baden-Powell's boys and young men to 'do good'. By 'Scheme for "Girl Guides"' was 'doing good', he once wrote (in 1900), published in the Scout's Headquarters 'I mean making yourselves useful and Gazette in Novemer 1909. It is doing small kindnesses to other reproduced in full by Kerr [1932: 29- people - whether they are friends or 34]). With the move to Victoria, the Girl strangers' (quoted by Jeal 1989: 363). Guides were allocated a separate This concern famously became office and Agnes Baden-Powell incorporated into Scout Law: (Robert’ sister) was asked to form a 3. A scout's duty is to be useful and committee. to help others. And he is to his duty As John Springhall (1977: 64) before anything else, even though he has noted, in the decade from 1908 to gives up his own pleasure, or comfort, 1919, 'no other influence upon British or safety to do it. When in difficulty to boyhood came anywhere near Baden- know which of two things to do, he Powell's movement'. He continues: must ask himself, "Which is my duty?" The actual timing of the that is, "Which is best for other appearance of the first Boy Scout may people?" - and do that one. He must Be be explained as an outcome of the Prepared at any time to save life, or to post-Boer War mood of imperial help injured persons. An he must try decline and social reassessment... his best to do a good turn to [H]owever, the historian needs to go somebody every day. back further, at least to Thomas 4. A Scout is a friend to all, and a Hughes idealization of Rugby and the brother to every other scout, no matter 'muscular Christianity' of the third to what social class the other belongs. quarter of the nineteenth century. Thus if a scout meets another scout, observation, and teaching him to Sales were extra-ordinary and quickly Despite subsequent new directions, even though a stranger to him, he notice details. I believe that if some groups of young men were the ideological roots of Scouting must speak to him, and help him in form of scout training could be devised approaching suitable adults to form remain buried in the public school any way that he can, either to carry in the Brigade it would be very popular, troupes (Springhall 1977). The ethos of Charterhouse in the 1870s, the out the duty he is then doing, or by and could do a great amount of good. involvement of Arthur Pearson (the methods of colonial warfare in the giving him food, or, as far as possible, Preliminary training in this line might publisher) had given the whole 1880s and 1890s, and the intellectual anything that he may be in want of. A include practice in noting and enterprise an unedifying commercial climate of the 1900s. scout must never be a SNOB. A snob remembering details of strangers; edge. Robert Baden-Powell had The key words of the old Scout is one who looks down upon another contents of shop windows, unwisely entered into a ‘gentleman’s Law: honour, loyalty and duty were part because he is poorer, or who is poor appearances of streets etc. The results agreement’ with him - and had lost of the old public school tradition; and and resents another because he is would not only sharpen the wits of the various rights and a large amount of Robert Baden-Powell's stress on the rich. A scout accepts the other man as Boy, but would also make him quick to money as a result. Considerable efforts worth of activity and games (and he finds him, and makes the best of read character and feelings, and thus were made to set up a separate disdain for 'effeminate' and intellectual him. help him to be a better sympathiser organization and to limit the scholarship) could have come directly "Kim", the boy scout, was called by with his fellow-men. (Robert Baden- publisher’s power. from the pages of Thomas Hughes' the Indians, "Little friend of all the Powell in the Boys' Brigade Gazette, 1 Scouting for Boys was also Tom Brown's Schooldays (Springhall world", and that is the name that every June 1904 - quoted by Jeal 1989: 362) read and taken up by a significant 1977: 54). When this was combined scout should earn for himself. (Robert Having looked at various number of middle class girls on a self- with woodcraft and a love of the open Baden-Powell 1908: 49-50 - these different schemes - including Ernest organized basis (Kerr 1936: 16). In air, a desire for class harmony and an became laws 4 and 5 in the second Thompson Seton's vision of camping September 1908 at Crystal Palace the appreciation of what might be edition of Scouting for Boys - 1909) and woodcraft, and explored different first big rally was held with some happening in the imaginative life of (Editor ’s Note: The above excerpt from an educational forms, in August 1907 he 10,000 Boy Scouts as well as a number boys then the scene was set for some article about Lord Baden-Powell is conducted the famous Brownsea of self-organized Girls Scouts serious innovation in informal provided to our readers to mark the Island Experimental Camp. Robert attending (Reynolds 1942: 150). education practice. forthcoming anniversary of his birthday that falls on February 22. It is hoped that those Baden-Powell wanted to test out the Robert Baden Powell was approached Robert Baden-Powell and 'doing good' who read this article may find some ideas he had been working on for his by some Girl Scouts asking him to do One of the fascinating features scheme of work for ‘Boy Scouts’. He something for them also. In the second inspiration and lead them to do something of Robert Baden-Powell's scheme is similar , perhap s even by volunteering two had completed the first draft of edition of Scouting for Boys he the centrality accorded to 'doing good'. hours a week in meeting the needs of Scouting for Boys. With the experience suggest a uniform for Girl Scouts - As we noted above, there is a strong Filipino-Canadian youth in Montreal. of the camp validating much of his blue, khaki or grey shirt (as with the link here with his own experience of Parent s who want their children to develop thinking, he began a long series of boys) and blue skirt and knickers. public school. For some years prior to life skills should register them in Scouting). promotional lectures around the However, Robert Baden-Powell had the publication of Scouting for Boys country arranged with the YMCA decided to set up a separate (Reynolds 1942: 147-8). On January organization and scheme. He decided 15, 1908, the first part of Scouting for ‘Scout’ was inappropriate and alighted Boys was published. Like modern day on ‘Girl Guide’. The scheme was ‘to ‘bit-parts’ it appeared at fortnightly make girls better mothers and guides intervals (6 parts) price at 4d each. It to the next generation’. In Robert RRSP LOANS quickly appeared in book form (May 1). Baden-Powell's mind though, it was to WANTED INCOME TAX Maximize your refund by maximizing your RRSP contribution SEWING MACHINE OPERATORS Quick and easy process! No small amount will be refused! We are looking for sewers with experience on industrial sewing **NEW “Tax Free Savings Account” CALL NOW ** machines. Evening shift 4:00 PM to Midnight Salary from $9.50 to $15.00 per hour Dennis Buenviaje Financial Services Apply to: Airbase Services Inc. Other services: Life Insurance, Car/house Insurance, Mortgages, RESP, 6046 Cote de Liesse Investments, SEG Funds, Bookkeeping, Commissioner of Oath St-Laurent, QC 6420 Victoria Ave, Suite 07, Montreal, Qc, H3W 2S5 514-735-5260, ext. 211 Cell: 514-895-4076, Office: 514-344-9126, 514-344-9392 16th year serving the Filipino Community

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 10 The North American Filipino Star Global BUDGET FAILS TO PROTECT MOST VULNERABLE, CREATE AND SAFEGUARD JOBS Perspectives “No confidence in Harper to implement with the Obama administration’s policies he’s spent a lifetime recently announced cap-and-trade opposing”: Layton market to reduce greenhouse gas OTTAWA – Yesterday’s Conservative emissions, as well as the Obama budget will not protect Canada’s most administration’s plans for greener car vulnerable or adequately save and production. create jobs, said New Democrat For more information, please contact: Leader Jack Layton. Rupinder Kaur, press secretary: 613- “This budget fails to restore 222-5048 or [email protected] confidence in Mr. Harper’s ability to protect the vulnerable in Canada,” said FRIENDFEST 2009 - BRING A Isaac T. Goodine Layton. FRIEND “In the budget, he prioritized $60 billion in corporate tax cuts and Children of the Depression: only $1.15 billion for the unemployed,” Objective: Celebrate Scouting Here we go again! said Layton. He also noted Harper’s and introduce our programs to failure to reform Employment NEW youth and adults! As I am in my 76 Th. Year (in their involvement as well as assisting Insurance by freezing payments, this incarnation) and have work those members who are just entering maintaining the two-week waiting experience in 76 countries, so far, I the international arena. This offers a period and not improving eligibility Timeline: January 26 - March 6, now take a pause to reflect on my own way to carry forward the lessons of requirements. 2009 life and times and celebrate my good past success and failure as a means to The budget also contains no fortune with relations, friends and international advancement—and as an mention of childcare spaces and Concept: Invite a friend (or acquaintances around the world. This alternative to war, inequity in human maintains the attack on women’s ability is not a statement about retirement but rights, and economic marginalisation to pursue pay equity complaints. more) to a FREE TRIAL rather an announcement about ‘retro- of people in the so called third world. The budget will fail to secure session. Applies to both retirement’, meaning that from time to Obama’s selection for appointment to the jobs of the future by continuing YOUTH and ADULTS. time I do return to work for special his Economic Team the former Chief Harper’s failed policies on tasks. I am not alone; a large and Economist of the World Bank Group, infrastructure. Recent commitments to Benefits: Each member that growing number of senior men and Lorne Summers, to serve as Director of infrastructure have failed due to the women who have acquired ‘elder White House National Economic regulations and conditions the brings a friend, who then joins wisdom’ through experience continue Council, and a former senior staff Conservatives have placed on our organization, is eligible to to contribute to society, particularly in member of the International Monetary qualifying projects. Municipal leaders win one of many exciting the international arena where I have Fund, Timothy Geithner, to serve as across Canada still have not seen prizes. Special campaign crest dwelt so long. The reasons for retro- Treasury Secretary, bodes well for the infrastructure funding despite repeated is sold at the ScoutShop. retirement vary but include the need for United States and the rest of the World announcements. The Conservatives’ monetary income, or for psychic as impending economic adjustments onerous regulations for municipalities Campaign Fee: 99$ per income—or both. reshape the way the world works. trying to access infrastructure funding member - youth & adult. Evoking fears of another great remain in place, ensuring that little if Requirements: Attach ballot to I recall the words of R. E. Boulding depression won’t help, but there are any of the funding will actually flow. registration form of new who, some decades ago, wrote the lessons that must be remembered or Layton also criticized the following words (or words to this some of the effects will be the same. In budget for its failure to seize the member. Available on effect): a article entitled ‘Children of the Great opportunities for Canada to collaborate www.qc.scouts.ca ‘An Ecological Ballad Depression’ was published in the It's great to be the drafter of a Ottawa Citizen recently, in which the monumental plan; writer designated the group born RESTAURANT For spending lots of money for the between 1929, the onset of the Great LA MAISON NEW KUM MO betterment of man; Depression, and 1939, the onset of the 5047 Henri Bourassa Est But audits are a nuisance, for its Second World War as a special group. 66565565 CCoteote d desesk NNeigeseiges, Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 neither games nor fun; This group grew-up in hardship but Montreal, QC (Corner Appleton) Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 To be asked to look at yester year and came of age in a time of opportunity. say what you have done. Many worked hard, did the right things, Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup And learning is more difficult, when you gained rapid promotion and found 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger have to do it fast; economic success. However, now the Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese So it’s pleasanter to contemplate the tide has turned and the this same Stuffed Bean Curd with Broccoli future than the past. group are among those who stand to Shrimps Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish Because of the paradigm shift lose much in the present economic Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Fried Sea Bass Fish Steamed Rice in thinking, brought about by the circumstances and at seventy (plus) Steamed Rice articulation of a new world-view by years of age many are again in difficult $37.95 4 Persons $58.95 President Barak Obama, we can dare circumstances. Since ‘ageism’ has 4 Persons to hope that a new age of reason may become the major form of be at hand. We must look to the future discrimination in the workplace in Bean Curd Soup Fish maw seafood soup but learn from the past. many countries, including Canada, 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Seafood with Eggplant When I look to my future I am where being ‘too old’ at fifty-five or ‘too Shrimp Cake with Chinese in Hot Pot honoured with opportunities to serve young’ at twenty-five surpasses gender Broccoli as a member of the World Bank Group bias or racial prejudice as impediments Stuffed Bean Curd with Speakers Bureau and contribute to the to employment and career Sweet and Sour Pork Shrimp stated mission ‘To fight poverty with advancement. For the older group, the Seafood with Bean Curd in Seafood with Chinese broccoli passion and professionalism for lasting loss of investments or pensions can Hot Pot Fried Sea Bass Fish results’. Concurrently, I am serving as mean that children of the great Salt and Pepper Squid House Fried Rice General Secretary of the International depression are back to where they Fried Sea Bass Fish Special Fried Noodles Vocational Education and Training started—learning to survive, and Steamed Rice $125.95 Association and as an Honorary maybe blossom, while times are tough. $63.95 Member of the Global Alliance for 6 Persons 10 Persons International Advancement. The Isaac’s coordinates are: Tel: 613 232 Alliance is new, established in 2008, 5524, Email: FREE DELIVERY and depends on having some [email protected] , Website: Minimum order of $10 514-733-6029 members with experience in www.ikes-world.com Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 international development helping 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. those members who want to expand 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 11 Directions 1. Preheat oven to 325° f. Learn to speak 2. In large mixing bowl combine cake ingredients. French the fast 3. Mix well. 4. Pour equally into two large greased and easy way! rectangular pans. Philippine Cuisine 5. Bake until top is no longer liquid Enroll now at: (approximately 30 minutes). 6. Mix topping ingredients well and spread evenly on the two cakes. 7. Bake an additional 20 to 30 minutes. Gilmore College Beef Steak, Filipino style 8. Cool cakes completely. 9. Slice each cake into 24 equal squares. 514-485-7861

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

Pork loin Beef Picnic ham Approximately Blade steak (with bone) 15 lbs .69 49 29 2 lb 3. lb 1. lb Half or Whole Front quarter of beef Boneless leg pork Approximately 200 lbs of ham Cut & Wrapped Estimated time to prepare and cook: 50 .09 99 minutes Cassava Cake 35 lb . ngredients: 1. 2 3 lb lb 1 litre of fresh * 3/4 kilo tender pork or beef steaks, Pork Spare Ribs blood with purchase sliced Home smoked when available 1/2pork * 1 tablespoon kalamansi or lemon meat 49 juice 79 . lb Regular smoked * 5 tablespoons soy sauce . lb 2 bacon * 3 cloves of garlic 8 * 1 small piece ginger, crushed Beef .89 * 1/2 teaspoon ground black Fresh Belly short ribs 4 lb pepper with skin 99 10 lbs & over * 1/2 cup onions, sliced in rings . lb * 4 tablespoons cooking oil .99 2 79 Pork / Beef Steak Cooking 2 lb 4. lb Instructions: St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard * 2 lbs grated cassava * Marinate the pork or beef steak in * 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened Napierville Fresh pork blood Sherrington kalamansi (lemon) juice, garlic, ginger, condensed milk (Reserve 1/3 cup for Barrington Fresh bacon 203 219 202 Lacolle soy sauce and pepper for 30 minutes. Topping) Hemmingford Fresh liver Jackson Road Sortie * In a frying, add cooking oil. Add the * 1 (12 ounce) can evaporated milk Havelock Exit No.6 Pork skin Canada Parc marinated pork or beef steak and cook * 1 (14 ounce) can coconut milk 219 Safari Class 15 slow until done. (Reserve 1/3 cup for Topping) Available Covey Hill Road Boucherie Viau Inc. * Increase heat for a minute or two to * 1 (13 ounce) can coconut cream U. S. A. Malone brown steaks. (Reserve 1/3 cup for Topping) Moders Champlain * Add the sliced onions and continue * 2/3 cup sugar to cook for another minute. * 3 eggs, plus 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 * Serve on a platter including the oil * 3 egg whites Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 and sauce. * 1 cup grated coconut * Best served with hot plain rice. Topping * 3 egg yolks

Reynaldo Balansi Commissioner for Oaths Commission No. 170 586 Affidavits, Will, Codicil S. Power of Attorney, Deed of Sales, Contract/Agreements, Travel Permit, Support & Consent, etc.

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www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star January 2009 The North American Filipino Star PHOTO GALLERY January 2009

A party to celebrate the 78th birthday of Mme Thérèse Dallaire (cemter)was given by Mr. Leger Lavoie (seated, 2nd from left) and Mrs. Juvy Lavoie (standing, 4th from left) at their residence Mary Joy Lizarondo (standing 2nd from left) hosted a birthday party on December 29, 2008 in Repentigny, Quebec. Some of their friends, relatives, and family members as well as in honor of her father, Mr. Tomas Lizarondo who just arrived from the Philippines with his wife students from Gilmore International College attended the happy occasion. and daughters. Seated with Mr. Lizarondo (2nd from left) are Bea Soliman, Celia Lizarondo, his wife, a guest, Anna Soliman, and Natasha Nuguid. Standing are: a guest, Mary Joy, Zenaida Kharroubi, Melody Lizarondo, and Tomas Nuguid.

Guests and family members of Mr. Tomas Lizarondo pose for souvenir of his birthday held on December 29, 2008 at Kum Mon Restaurant in Cote des Neiges, Montreal. The executive board of the Kapampangan Association of Montreal headed by Svetlana Suarez pose for souvenir after the successful conclusion of the Munting Mutya ng Pilipinas-Montreal held at the TMR Town Hall, January 17, 2009.

Scout Leaders Moises Medina (left) and Romeo Valenzuela (on the right) are supervising a Scouts and Cubs of Laging Handa bade farewell to Claro Bermudez (3rd from rigfht, last row) Scouting activity. Photo taken on January 10, 2009. for which this souvenir photo was taken on January 10, 2008 at FAMAS where they hold their weekly activity.

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 13

Sharing the food brought in by members and their guests during the pot luck supper of the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative on January 4, 2009. Most avid supporters of the cooperative movement pose for souvenir after the post Christmas & New Year party held January 4, 2009

Photo taken during the Filipino Solidarity Cooperative post Christmas & New Year Party held on January 4, 2009 at the FAMAS building on van Horne Avenue in Montreal.

The contestants of the Munting Mutya ng Pilipinas-Montreal, 2009 in theri evening gowns: 1) April Bernardine Tandoc Zamora, 2) Bianca Joyce Mesias Seridio, 3) Karla Rabanera Monterrosa, 4)) Hazel Mae Matteo Javillonar, 5) Jaslie Bisares Denault, 6) Arianne Katrina Esmeria Soriano, and 7) Allyson Camille Punzalan Egenias. Left photo shows the winner, Candidate No. 6, Arianne Soriano after she was crowned Munting Mutya ng Pilipinas Montreal 2009 during the party held on January 17, 2009 at the TMR Town Hall, Mount Royal, QC.

www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star January 2009 Important tips that you always What type of small remember when you deal with any business should I start online business transaction: that will succeed? • Read the company’s refund policy Any business that provides a • Pay attention on their useful service or a specialized skill is address or location ( PO Box # is a most likely to succeed. Any small big no! no!) business that does cleaning, repair • Take advantage of their free work, printing, painting, consulting, etc trial offer before you pay will succeed because these are • Be smart in using your services that people need and will payment option ( I use Paypal - credit consistently demand if you provide a Making Money Online, while others would make you pull your cards for refund security) high standard of service. Because Where Do You Start? hair out of your head. • And make sure that they have good there are so many people pursuing The purpose of All About customer support ready to respond to sales jobs and desk jobs there is a Home Business Articles is to share your problem at anytime. shortage of people who actually know The growth of the internet has with you the legitimate information how to do things. Those who know how been surge in the number of home and resources by simplifying the That way even when you already paid to fix cars, hang wallpaper, build based businesses over the last 5 to 10 mystique behind making money them, you know you are still holding shelves, and do landscaping are years. Type in the “making money online and at home and providing real making the big bucks because those online” in the search engines and you reviews and links on Legitimate who use their services are more will literally see millions of search Products Sources, Websites, Drop concerned about the job being done results! The problem I found was shipping and e-books of which will be right than what it costs. .a there was so much information about tackled on the following issue of making money online yet most of the Filipino Star Obama to visit websites I visited didn’t actually provide information on what you will What about scams? And how to Canada Feb.19 be doing on what this so called “easy avoid them? Money machine”. 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"This is a testament, not just to on your face while you are asleep • What else should I do in order the size of our trading relationship and to achieved my goals? the closeness of our alliance, but also • How much time and effort and the strength of our friendship," he told capital am I willing to pour or able to the House of Commons. "I look put in? forward to an important and productive • Can I meet the requirements working visit." to be successful in this business? The Obama administration separately confirmed the trip in “ Please don’t get caught up believing Washington. you will become an instant "The president intends to make millionaire in a short time. For those his first foreign trip as president to who are serious about home-based, Canada," White House spokesman online business or simply making Robert Gibbs told reporters. 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www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 15 Claudio added that the meeting were former president Fidel ‘Fight side by side in 2010’ Commission on Elections has Ramos, Lakas chairman emeritus recognized Lakas as the dominant and Speaker Prospero Nograles,

majority party. Lakas party president. a Among those present in the Roxas ready for 2010, quiet on wedding plans

One of the presidential timbers, Roxas also said he was not Senator Mar Roxas, remains quiet on bothered that he is not faring very when he will tie the marital knot. well in the presidential preference But Roxas, one of the surveys about l7 months before the prospective standard-bearers of the elections. opposition, said yesterday he would announce his political plans within the year. “That will surely come,” the grandson of post-Liberation President Manuel Roxas told President Gloria Macapagal- commit ourselves to the holding of newsmen at his residence in Cubao, Aroyo pushed for the merger orderly and credible elections in Quezon City. between the two major parties in the 2010, principally ensuring the He said he wanted to make sure administration coalition, saying they successful automation of our that he does things at the right time. should “fight side by side in 2010.” electoral process,” she said. One of his aides said it is Speaking at the National In an interview with reporters possible that Roxas may declare his Executive Committee Meeting of during a break from the caucus, intention to run for president on his Lakas-Christian Muslim Democrats Claudio said the unification 50th birthday on May l3. here Thursday, Arroyo ordered the committee hoped to finish the He thinks he is well prepared for creation of a National Consolidation merger in three months. the presidency. “If I will be given a and Unification Committee to be “I have every hope and chance to serve our people, why chaired by her political adviser expectation that all leaders and not?” Gabriel Claudio to pursue the members of both parties will listen Roxas has been reportedly told merger between Lakas and the intently to what the President says by his political advisers that having a Kabalikat ng Malayang Pilipino on this matter. It’s not only a matter wife will boost his presidential bid. Senator Manuel Roxas III during an (Partner of the Free Filipino, Kampi) of direction or order coming from the When asked whether he prefers interview at Manila's Makati financial and alliances with other political chairman of the coalition. There is to marry before the May 2010 district January 21, 2009. A former parties that would be “in the interest political logic in being able to elections or when he is already in investment banker turned politician and of the administration coalition.” conclude the merger of Lakas and Malacañang, he was tightlipped. one of Manila's most eligible bachelors has set his eyes on the country's highest The same committee will also set Kampi,” he said. His possible wedding with his office, attempting to follow the footsteps the criteria and mechanism for When the two parties merge, girlfriend of five years, broadcaster of his namesake and grandfather by choosing the coalition’s bets for next they will hold 65 to 70 percent of all Korina Sanchez of ABS-CBN, is one 2010. year’s general elections. incumbent positions, said Claudio, of the hottest topics nowadays. “The unification and merger of senior deputy secretary general of Roxas laughed off different He recalled that he was outside Lakas and Kampi must now proceed Lakas. forecasts made by seers on when of the magic l2 in the surveys for in earnest and with deliberate Claudio also maintained that the wedding bells will soon toll for senatorial bets several months speed,” Arroyo said. Lakas would be the surviving entity him and Korina. before the May 2004 elections. His Arroyo said merging the two after the merger, as agreed upon “At my age, many have made rating picked up by February 2004 parties would consolidate support when Arroyo first called for Lakas those predictions but all of them and eventually he topped the for government programs to keep and Kampi to unite in early 2008, as proved untrue. So they better stop senatorial race.a the economy afloat amid the global she consolidated support for her it.” recession. administration in the wake of bribery Asked whether Korina is getting “It will also ensure that we fight allegations surrounding the botched impatient about the matter, he shot side by side in 2010… Even as we $329-million national broadband back that the newsmen should direct strengthen our ranks, let us also network project. the question at her. Patrick Labrosse Financial Services

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www.filipinostar.org January 2009 16 The North American Filipino Star largest in Québec. In 1990, Pres. Corazon C. The experience of coop Aquino approved the Cooperative pioneers in the Philippines was almost Code of the Philippines (Republic Act the same. Though coop movement in 6938 and 6939) that protects and Empowering the Philippines started to thrive in the regulates the Philippine cooperatives early 1960s, all the efforts of coop and was signed into law. Atty. Mordino leaders were back to zero on Cua and Sen. Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr. the people September 21, 1972 when Marcos drafted it. Since then, coops in the issued Proclamation 1081, declaring Philippines continue to move and play martial law over the entire country. an important role to help the poor Under the president's command, the people. By Jerry O. Estrada military arrested opposition figures, If we compare our condition journalists, students, labor activists, now from the pioneers, we could say and criminal elements. A total of about that we are in a better conditiion. The 30,000 detainees were kept at military absence of the law before was a compounds run by the army and the hindrance. With the Cooperative Act, Philippine Constabulary headed by we are protected. In the Philippines, Almost no reason to falter Juan Ponce Enrile. unfortunately, most of the poor coop In Cagayan de Oro, where members don’t even know how to Bégin, Archbishop of Quebec. The The Filipino Solidarity most of the coop pioneers came from, read and write except their own name, Archbishop said, “Be not discouraged, Cooperative (FSC) held a post coop leaders were also arrested and As they did not go to school, they go forward in this work of justice and Christmas Party on January 4, 2009 at imprisoned for conducting coop don’t know how to run a business charity for the cause of working the FAMAS Building (Van Horne meetings in relation to illegal enterprise. It is our advantage that masses. I commend you. I will give you Avenue). Surprisingly, around 50 assembly. The government officials most of the coop members now are my approval and my blessing.” members and non-members attended were suspicious that coop leaders professionals. Lastly, the poor people The Coop Law passed the party. This attendance was then were collecting money, not as have a hard time saving P100 to build unanimously and Alphonse was unexpected because most of us are savings deposit but to fund subversive coop capital but it is easier for us to delighted because it put an end to the always pre-occupied by our own hectic agenda to overthrow the government. shell out $100 if want to. After all, danger that had hung over him and schedules. Coop financial reports, education and most of us have good paying jobs. which had been the source of I have been thinking that it training materials, savings and Our coop’s economic goal is Dorimene’s fears. would take no Peter Drucker or Lee deposits and other data were reachable and attainable. Now, one On September 27, 1906, La Iacocca, both management wizards, to confiscated. Financial supports from may ask, is the only Filipino-owned Caisse Populaire de Lévis held a analyze that FSC will thrive and Germany and other countries to help cooperative enterprise going to special general meeting. Alphonse was succeed in its economic goals even if the Philippine coop movement were succeed or be doomed to die? Its fate in high enthusiasm seeing his good only the abovementioned number of being questioned and frozen. is up to all of us. If we let it fail, it will neighbors assembled before him. He people would become active coop But coop leaders were not stunned, be a reflection on the Filipino announced that they have now the members. Why? Because more than but instead they continue the project, community’s apathy. protection of the law, thereby calling half of the ingredients to succeed in the which they believed would help the It is not yet too late to change. upon even the most humble workmen economic field is now available Filipino people. Later, they were able There is hope to make things better if to band together in a new system for compared to the experience of leaders to build an enterprise in Northern all of us will set aside our doubts and Canada and the benefits which an in the early stages of the coop Mindanao which became the first lack of faith. Support the first and only association can bring to be enlarged movement. History will give us some Philippine coop billionaire. Filipino Coop in Canada. classic example: and multiplied and extended to other Alphonse Desjardins (of Lévis, places. Quebec) had no idea about Desjardins used his own PRIX QUÉBÉCOIS DE LA CITOYENNETÉ 2009 cooperatives, and didn’t even know house and own personal money to run where to start except his desire to help the caisse. The first deposit was ten Vous avez réalisé des activités qui ont favorisé le rapprochement interculturel? free the poor people in Lévis, Quebec cents and at end of the first opening Vous avez fait des gestes concrets pour contrer le racisme ou la discrimination? from the yoke of loan sharks. In the total sum on hand was $26.40. Vous avez mis en place des mesures d’accès à l’égalité en emploi ou des mesures d’accueil, addition, Alphonse was moved to take After five years, the members had d’intégration et de promotion de la diversité en milieu de travail? up his mission in 1897 when he saved $40,000 and had a little learned of a Montrealer who had been cooperative of their own. Devenez l’un des prochains lauréats ordered by the court to pay nearly , Dorimene became a careful des Prix québécois de la citoyenneté! $5,000 in interests on a loan of $150 manager and good listener to the from a moneylender. Dorimène members she often welcomed in the family residence. Sharing her Desjardins, his wife, had her great fear. Vous avez jusqu’au 27 février pour vous inscrire husband's cooperative ideal and being She tried to discourage Alphonse from dans l’une ou l’autre des catégories suivantes : continuing his noble work because the gifted in management and accounting, people would blame him if the coop she rapidly got involved in the Caisse Pour les personnes et les organismes à but non lucratif failed. They heard attacks from critics. populaire de Lévis's daily activities. Le PRIX JACQUES-COUTURE They called him a fool, a crackpot, a Dorimene's exemplary devotion was an Le PRIX ANNE-GREENUP dreamer of dreams, a builder of castles inspiration to several other women who Des bourses de 1 000 $ et de 2 500 $ in Spain which they said would surely found themselves at the head of a seront remises aux lauréats go tumbling down. Furthermore, caisse at a time when finances were Pour les entreprises et les organismes privés, Dorimene’s concerns that quite apart restricted to men. publics et parapublics from the burden of keeping all the In 1907, two caisses were Le PRIX MAURICE-POLLACK accounts, there would some day be a organized. And in 1908, twelve more branches were created. Within a loss through bad loans, or even theft, Pour souligner l’apport exceptionnel d’une personne and Alphonse Desjardins alone would seven-year period, Desjardins issue des communautés culturelles au développement have to shoulder the loss. And yet, personally founded 146 caisses. At the de la société québécoise there was no law at that time to protect time of his death in 1920, there were Le PRIX CHARLES-BIDDLE the caisse and its officers. 187 caisses populaires in Québec Alphonse tried to have (30,000 members and total assets of Renseignements et formulaires : legislation introduced into the House of nearly $6 million), 24 in Ontario and 9 www.quebecinterculturel.gouv.qc.ca in the United States. Commons in Ottawa, that would permit ou contactez-nous au : and guide the development of In 2006, it had over 40,000 514 873-1627 LAURÉATS 2008 cooperatives, but failed. When it employees and 6,500 elected and 1 866 817-9850 (sans frais) reached the Senate it was defeated by volunteer officers. It gave its members La ville de Gatineau one vote. Alphonse drew up an Act. He $483 million CAD in patronage refunds M. Masoud Farzaneh put his first draft in his pocket and and $64 million CAD in donations, M. Mudi Wa Mbuji Kabeya presented to a Quebec lawyer. He sponsorships and academic M. Mohamed Nazih Soulami sought the help of Sir Lomer Gouin, the scholarships. In 2008, Desjardins Momentum Technologies inc. PROMIS (Promotion – Intégration – Société nouvelle) premier of the province. Also, he went group was ranked as the sixth-largest Le Centre de recherche-action sur les relations raciales to seek the advice of Loui Nazaire financial institution in Canada and the www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 17 Robin Padilla warned: ‘Too risky’ Filipino receives first US anti- "The kidnappers have only one child labor award thing in mind and that is money," Ameen said. A Filipino anti-child labor advocate Pakistan. His dedication to ending He said Padilla's being a Muslim received the first annual Iqbal Masih child slavery, however, continues to would not help because the kidnappers Award for the Elimination of Child inspire individuals around the world. "don't discriminate whether you are their Labor given by the US Department of co-religionists or not, as long as you Labor. have the capacity to pay ransom." US Ambassador to the "This is an unsolicited advice, but Philippines Kristie A. Kenney we are offering this as a sign of our presented the award to Maria Cecilia concern to you and to protect the image Flores-Oebanda of the Visayan Forum of Islam," he added, addressing himself Foundation on Friday. Actor Robin Padilla could end up to Padilla. "It is a great honor to present the being kidnapped himself if he decides Ameen also hit the Abu Sayyaf for Iqbal Masih Award to Cecille, who is a to go to Sulu to help in the efforts to free destroying the image of Muslims in the long-time partner of the US Mission in the three workers of the International Philippines. the Philippines in combating Committee of the Red Cross held In Basilan, where three exploitative child labor as well as hostage there by suspected Abu Sayyaf humanitarian workers were kidnapped trafficking of women and children for Maria Cecilia Flores-Oebanda extremists, a Moro rebel leader said last year, a male midwife became the domestic servitude and commercial Thursday. latest kidnap victim on Wednesday. sexual exploitation," Kenney said at the Like Iqbal Masih, Flores-Oebanda In a statement issued on Thursday, Nick de Castro, security officer of ceremony held at the US Embassy. was born into poverty. As a child, she Muhammad Ameen, head of the Moro the Lamitan City government, said "The award recognizes Cecille's helped to support her family by Islamic Liberation Front secretariat, Elizar Gomera, 45, was asked to assist work that has brought real change to scavenging. As a teenager, she in the delivery of a baby in the village of warned that Padilla's desire to the lives of thousands of children in the advocated for the rights of youth and Parangbasak on Wednesday morning personally negotiate for the release of Philippines," she added. farm laborers. but failed to return home. Swiss Andreas Notter, Italian Eugenio The Iqbal Masih Award was Flores-Oebanda later founded and At noon on Thursday one of the Vagni and Filipina Jean Lacaba could established by the US Congress to now leads the VFF, a nongovernmental kidnappers called up the city health prove to be "too risky" for the actor, a recognize the work of an individual, organization that has rescued and office to say Gomera "is in their hands,” convert to Islam. company, organization or national provided assistance to more than De Castro said. Reports reaching the Philippine government to end the worst forms of 32,000 victims and potential victims of He did not say what the kidnappers Daily Inquirer indicated that Padilla was trafficking. The VFF has helped to file wanted. child labor. planning to go to Sulu to help negotiate The award reflects the spirit of more than 65 trafficking cases on for the release of the victims. He was in Another group of kidnappers is also holding three Zamboanga City teachers Iqbal Masih, a Pakistani child enslaved behalf of more than 165 victims. Zamboanga on Wednesday and at the age of four who escaped his Flores-Oebanda serves as the in Basilan. a reportedly offered to help in the ICRC servitude and became an outspoken Southeast Asia coordinator for the kidnapping case. advocate against child slavery. Global March Against Child Labor. In 1995 at the age of 13 and a year The US government has declared 300,000 could lose jobs in after receiving the Reebok Human the fight against human trafficking as a Philippines amid crisis - Official Rights Award, Iqbal was killed in high priority. a Up to 300,000 people could lose fallout from the global economic their jobs in the Philippines over the downturn, which has heavily hit the Filipina in California accused of next six months as the global financial country's two top export earners crisis deepens, labor secretary electronics and garments, where most P6-M embezzlement Marianito Roque warned Wednesday. jobs have gone so far. Some 15,000 have been laid off Manila has asked business groups A Filipina in California has been worked as bookkeeper. over the past two months while 19,000 to prepare measures to mitigate the accused with the embezzlement of The report quoted San Joaquin others had their work week cut to four impact on their workers and use job $130,000 or more than P6 million from County Deputy District Attorney days or less, he told reporters. cuts only as a last resort, he added. an architectural firm where she Stephen Taylor as saying that Torres He said that a "worst-case scenario" Job creation is tough in the worked, an online report said on was accused of using their company would see the number of jobless rise to Philippines, where some 27 million Tuesday. checkbook to pay herself and her between 250,000 and 300,000 by the people live on a dollar a day or less and According to Recordnet.com, 37- relatives, effectively falsifying the end of June. where one in three adults are year old May Yonzon Torres is just one payroll. He described the job cuts so far, unemployed or underemployed, of at least five San Joaquin County Taylor reportedly asked Judge which include more than 10,000 in the according to official data. residents accused of stealing money Richard Guiliani of the San Joaquin Calabarzon industrial belt south of Jennifer Manalili, head of the labor from their employer. County Superior Court to have Torres Manila, as being within the department's Philippine Overseas Torres has been charged with a booked into the San Joaquin County "manageable level" in relation to a Employment Administration, said as a two-count complaint with grand theft of Jail. nationwide work force of about 37 last resort Manila could export more of personal property totaling more than However, the judge just asked million. its work force. $100,000 from 2005 to 2008 and Torres to turn over her passport, Unemployment in the Philippines There is an unmet demand for falsifying the corporate books of preventing her from returning to the currently stands at 6.8%. 389,000 jobs abroad, including more Architectural Amenities Inc., where she Philippines. a The government is holding talks than 100,000 in Qatar and 12,000 in with employers' groups to ease the Kuwait, Roque said. a

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www.filipinostar.org January 2009 18 The North American Filipino Star Thanks for supporting us..keep loving www.myspace.com/hiphoprox. ...commenting..and subscribing. Another Pinoy YouTube singing FILIPINO STAR Thanks a lot! We love you," Rin said. sensation Charice Pempengco's To know more of "Rin on The Rox" appearance on The Ellen DeGeneres performances check them out on Show last year helped catapult her to S H O W B I Z G O S S I P YouTube. Their account is 'hiphoprox.' international fame. a You can also check their Myspace account on www.myspace.com/erinpaula and Ellen invites Pinoy YouTube More than just a body beautiful

singing sensation duo her curves. “It is a sexy role after all and an equally challenging hurdle to live up to my predecessor,” she explains, alluding to the original Ms. Body Beautiful Vivian Velez’s inspiring performance as Martha in the original 1983 movie adaptation of Carlo J. Caparas’ comics series. Spruced up with a more modern storyline, today’s Pieta (directed by Toto Natividad and Don Cuaresma) finds Martha as a well-to-do colegiala who crosses paths with the destitute but hardy Rigor (Ryan). Krista and her co-stars anticipate the forthcoming Pieta Mall Tour series. Krista Ranillo Krista also makes a cameo appearance in Iskul Bukol: 20 Years Five weeks after its pilot episode, After, where she plays of Oyo Boy ABS-CBN’s afternoon soap Pieta Sotto’s girlfriend. continues to titillate televiewers with She also figures in Hush-Hush, the sizzling chemistry of Krista Ranillo TV5’s new all-star drama series that Erin & Roxanne, or Rin on The Rox as they are known on YouTube dream of a musical and Ryan Agoncillo. probes the exciting and multi-faceted career To her credit, Krista has become lives of celebrities and showbiz more comfortable sinking her teeth American talk-show host Ellen said in one post: "Our dreams are personalities. Touted as the local into daring roles — tempered no less DeGeneres has invited two talented actually coming true." version of Gossip Girls, the show is by her shockingly brazen portrayal of Filipino "bathroom singers" to guest They also said in their YouTube directed by Laurice Guillien and stars a wanna-be starlet in the indie film on her popular “The Ellen DeGeneres channel 'hiphoprox' that they are Dominic Ochoa, Bernard Palanca and Paupahan and her equally revealing Show.” proud to be Filipinos. Ina Feleo. spreads as FHM’s August 2008 cover Rin and Roxanne of "Rin on the “Yes, we both are Filipino, but as Krista is also a credible celebrity girl. Rox," who have become a YouTube for Roxanne she's half-Filipino and endorser. She has been tapped as It’s all clockwork for Krista by now sensation, are best buddies who do half-white,” Rin said. Petron’s Calendar Girl for 2009 and — the torrid kissing scenes, the jaw- cover songs inside their bathroom. They also belied they are twins, hosts PLDT DSL’s weekend promo dropping two-piece bikini exposures "Recently, I found these two saying that they are just best of tours in various malls. a and other beguiling shots that flaunt singers on the internet. These two friends. girls are singing in the bathroom. So "Ha! ha! No, we are just best they are fantastic. If you are watching friends with the same passion-- Rachelle Ann reveals real reason right now, please, please come on the music," Rin added. In particular, they show if you are watching. We have a both love R&B music. behind breakup with Christian wonderful bathroom here... But Rin and Rox have become a seriously, you are great. So please, YouTube hit for their version of Rachelle Ann Go is obviously please come on the show if you would popular songs. They always express enjoying the best of both worlds these like to," DeGeneres said in a recent appreciation to their fans and days. While her singing career is doing episode. supporters who watch their videos, well, her love life is on the upswing too. She and Gab Valenciano are currently playing beautiful music together. Their special friendship started last December. “Funny, but at first, we weren’t talking to each other,” says the charming lass. “I knew he’s the son of Gary Valenciano but that’s just it. In fact, we don’t even exchange ‘Hi’s!’ whenever we meet in the hallways of ABS-CBN 2. My initial impression of him was that he’s a braggart, judging on the way he talked to people and carried himself. I thought he was over- confident because he is the son of Gary V. “But all of that changed when I got to do production numbers with him in Rachelle Ann Go Talk show host Ellen DeGeneres sends an open invitation to the talented pair of ASAP. It gave us the chance to talk and amateur singers to appear on her show after discovering them on YouTube. I discovered that basically, he’s a shy better. From there, our friendship guy. When I told him about my first developed.” Rin or Erin Paula, 20, and Rox or give comments and requests. impression of him, he said that he is Last Christmas, they gave each Roxanne, 21, are based in California, "Thanks for all the love and just like that when he talks to people other gifts. USA. They dream of having a career support. We will try to fulfill everyone's but definitely, he’s not boastful. And “He gave me a MAC Book laptop. in singing. song requests. We are just really because of his dad, I got to know Gab I was really touched. In return, I bought In Rin's MySpace account, she pressured for time. So we will get to it. him a computer chair which he can use www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 19 in his recording studio. Actually, I was were futile. with him when he canvassed its price. I “So before things get worse, we Their water-colored affair advised him not to buy it and instead, agreed to end our relationship but “We’ve made a few, better scout for a cheaper one. Without his vowed to become friends. Later, we changes in our life, that’s why we knowledge, I had the chair reserved. realized that indeed, we’re better off as wanted that title for our second album” Then, exactly on Christmas day, such. Now, we understand each other Miguel grants. “Our music is a together with Tita Angeli (Pangilinan, better as compared to the time when Gab’s mother), I put it in his room. we were still together.” reflection of our life. It took us quite a When he saw it, he was very happy!” Lack of time for each other was while to complete the album because Now that she has found a new another pertinent factor for their split- it was so difficult to gather the love, Rachelle is open to reveal the real up. musicians together. We had several reason behind her break-up with ex- “We spent more time working than individual schedules to consider, boyfriend Christian Bautista. being together. It was only during including ours.” “It’s okay to talk about it since it is ASAP that Christian and I get to see As the title indicates, the band’s water under the bridge now. For the each other regularly and if we had music took an audacious turn in this record, there was no third party shows together. Sad but true. second release. While Brazilian involved. The numerous things we “It’s good that we became good influences are still clearly recognizable didn’t agree upon triggered our friends despite what happened to our on all tracks, this time, the song lineup decision to call it quits. Unknown to the love affair. In fact, he’s one of my comprises mostly original public, during our two-year special guests in my forthcoming show compositions from Miguel and Evelyn. relationship, we were on and off at the Music Museum titled Falling in “Changes is a bit jazzy,” informs Evelyn & Miguel Juteau because of said differences. Perhaps, Love. Gab will also be one of the guest Miguel. “Our first album contains we were just good in handling our performers,” excitingly informs They have their respective jobs mostly bossa nova tracks and covers. feelings in front of the cameras. We Rachelle. that keep them busy, but when an The second one is composed of nine originals and three covers.” tried working things out but our efforts a opportunity comes for them to make beautiful music together, French- Miguel brings to the recording his Willie’s ‘shining moment’ in Spanish singer-songwriter Miguel impressive musical artistry that started Juteau and his Filipino wife Evelyn in Northern France, first into pop then Wowowee welcome it. It was music that brought Flamenco, Latin and acoustic. After them together, so it is only recording a couple of his own Wowowee. compositions in his early twenties, he ‘She arrived one hour before understandable that they will continue their common passion. moved to Granada, Spain to study showtime,’ Willie told Funfare, ‘and she Flamenco guitar. He later fell in love told me that her staff at the US In 1999, Miguel and Evelyn formed with Brazilian music, a passion he has Embassy are avid followers of my Aquarela, which means watercolor in nurtured ever since. show,’ just like Filipinos abroad tuned Portuguese. The group readily defined Evelyn, for her part, is a seasoned in to TFC (The Filipino Channel). itself as the most genuine entertainer from Cebu. She worked ‘The ambassador was very representative of Latin and Brazilian with many leading jazz bands and gracious,’ added Willie who gamely music in the local entertainment eventually performed with Miguel in requested her to swing and sway to scene. Barcelona and Paris. the show’s theme song. Aquarela prides itself in being The three covers in Changes are She obliged with pleasure, much authentic when it comes to samba and the bossa nova upbeat ditty Berimbau, to the amusement of Willie and his co- bossa nova music. Miguel composes Willie Revillame got the biggest The Doors’ ’60s classic Light My Fire, hosts (among them Pokwang, in and arranges songs for the band, thrill in his hosting life when US re-arranged as contemporary smooth white). ‘She had a lot of fun,” said while Evelyn acts as band manager Ambassador to the Philippines Kristie jazz, and a refreshing acoustic take on Willie, addressing Ambassador and record producer, as well as Kenney dropped by as ‘special guest’ the Visayan song Usahay, recorded in Kenney, ‘Thank you, Ma’am, for frontliner. of the ABS-CBN noontime show the vernacular by Evelyn, who takes dropping by.’ a Two years ago, Aquarela came out with their debut album, Bossa Nova pride in her roots. Affair, a collection of bossa nova and One of the original tracks is the Angellie wishes upon a star samba tunes distributed by Universal soft fusion Boracay, which the couple Records. The CD is an expression of plans to launch in the island early next Houston’s Run to You which was her Miguel and Evelyn’s love for Brazilian year. The Tagalog lyrics (Ala-Ala Mo) winning piece. Angellie said she music which conveys a soulful and were written by Mon David, himself a started singing when she was four romantic mood to listeners. noted performer, while the English years old. “My mom encouraged me to Admittedly, the couple was lyrics (It Will Always be You) were join singing contests so I could inspired by their first musical outing penned by Evelyn. conquer my shyness.” She joined that’s why they worked on another “We went to Boracay five years other competitions like Bulilit Singing album, which took more than six ago and we simply fell in love with the Contest (2004), Sing Like a Star months to make. Recently, Miguel and island,” Evelyn shares. a (2003), and Batang ETV (2002) where Evelyn came out with Changes, she also emerged champion. Aquarela’s second album. The young singer also decided to embark on an acting career to explore her range as an artist. One of her most memorable performances was on the RRSP LOANS Diary episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya where she played Darlene, a young girl who was in love with Piolo Pascual. INCOME TAX “After winning on Little Big Star, my former road manager informed me that Maximize your refund by maximizing your RRSP contribution there was an audition for an MMK Quick and easy process! No small amount will be refused! episode starring Piolo Pascual. Luckily, **NEW “Tax Free Savings Account” CALL NOW ** Angellie Urquico I got the lead role opposite him.” She also starred on Palos where Angellie Urquico’s angelic features she played the young Sylvia (Bangs Dennis Buenviaje Financial Services and sweet smile exude youthfulness Garcia’s character). Angellie learned a Other services: Life Insurance, Car/house Insurance, Mortgages, RESP, and innocence. few stunt routines required for her role. Investments, SEG Funds, Bookkeeping, Commissioner of Oath The 16-year old Angellie was the Angellie has just finished doing an indie film titled Ugat sa Lupa, a 6420 Victoria Ave, Suite 07, Montreal, Qc, H3W 2S5 grand champion on ABS-CBN’s Little Cell: 514-895-4076, Office: 514-344-9126, 514-344-9392 National Commission for Culture and Big Star Season 2 (2006). She 16th year serving the Filipino Community impressed the judges and the the Arts project directed by Ariel audience with her rendition of Whitney Reyes. a

www.filipinostar.org January 2009 20 The North American Filipino Star Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.19 Sarah’s big plans for 2009 Angel Locsin released from Ang Aking Pangarap, the theme song of the telenovella Lobo; Kailangan Kita, hospital Kung Ako Na Lang Sana, Minsan, Pers Lab, Bituing Walang Ningning and siya binigyan ng choice. Sinabi ko many more. talaga na kailangan niyang ma- Sarah starts 2009 off with the confine," he said. screening of the long-awaited sequel to After visiting his mother, Batangas A Very Special Love, the box-office hit Gov. Vilma Santos, who was on a photo that paired her with John Lloyd Cruz. shoot then, Manzano said he went You Changed My Life, hits the big straight to St. Luke’s to make all the screens on Feb. 25. necessary arrangements. On March she’ll be leaving for the "Sabi ko, ‘didiretso na ako sa St. US for her concert tour, The Next One Luke’s, aayusin ko na ito, ‘yong room with Billy Crawford, Charlie Green and mo lahat-lahat. Ang kailangan mo lang Mark Bautista as guests. Sarah will tour gawin ay pumunta dito, kailangan 14 cities until April. mong ma-confine.’ Yes, siya ang In May, Sarah will be off on a pumunta sa St. Luke’s kasi inaayos ko provincial tour covering five cities. In ang room, ako ang nauna doon," he October or November, she’ll be back at Actress Angel Locsin has been Sarah Geronimo said. the Araneta Coliseum for another discharged from a hospital in Quezon Manzano said Locsin’s doctor was Two spectacular shows at the concert. City after she was confined there last then considering two possible Araneta Coliseum. One highly Sarah is also set to do a movie with week due to dengue, her rumored infections -- typhoid or dengue. successful US concert tour. One Pilo Pascual. boyfriend, Luis Manzano, announced "So, I think hinintay ‘yong blood platinum album. A runaway blockbuster That’s not all. She’s scheduled to Tuesday. culture at binantayan ‘yong platelets of a movie. Four music awards. Sarah cut two new albums next year and there In a press conference for his kung ano ang nangyayari talaga. Geronimo did it all in 2008. So what can are new commercials to film. upcoming television series “Komiks Noong constantly bumaba that's when we expect from the Pop Princess in Such as a schedule is enough to Presents: Flash Bomba,” Manzano said they believed and confirmed na it was 2009? make one’s head spin. But Sarah says Locsin left the hospital Tuesday dengue," Manzano said. Even before 2008 came to a close, she is used to the pace. afternoon. The actress also acquired the same Sarah released her new album, OPM “I hope to do more records, "Nakauwi na po siya. She's on her infection in 2005. Sarah Geronimo. movies, TV shows and endorsements. way to recovery. Siguro mga one week He said he would go straight to the The CD boasts the theme song of Marami pa po akong plano at pa po bago siya maka-fully recover. hospital from work to visit Locsin. He the movie, Baler, Ngayon, Bukas at pangarap. Salamat po sa lahat ng ng Very, very good news," Manzano said. Kailanman. Also in the album are Ikaw also shared that his mother would send tulong.” a On Thursday evening Locsin was food for Locsin when the latter was still brought to St. Luke’s Medical Center recuperating at the hospital. Judy Ann denies secret marriage where she was diagnosed with dengue The actor-host said he is happy that infection. Locsin is now feeling better. He was to Ryan Agoncillo “As of 5 a.m. (Sunday), her platelet also thankful that Locsin did not have to count has gone up to 58,000. Her undergo a blood transfusion. doctor is optimistic that she’s on her way to recovery. Angel would like to 'No engagement' thank you all for your prayers,” the After their reported rift and eventual actress’ manager, Becky Aguila, told reconciliation, Manzano, meanwhile, show business talk show “The Buzz” on denied that he already proposed to Sunday in a text message. Locsin. Prior to her hospitalization, Locsin His clarification stemmed from was supposed to do guestings on reports saying that Locsin was seen “Entertainment Live” and “The Buzz” wearing an engagement ring. last week but these were all cancelled "Kung anuman ‘yong singsing na because she was not feeling well. suot niya, I believe na pinaghirapan Manzano recounted that Locsin niya 'yon sa mga pagpupuyat niya. had a high fever and started vomiting. Wala po akong ike-credit sa kahit ano In Tuesday’s press conference, the sa mga jewelry niya," Manzano said. “Flash Bomba” lead star divulged that He added that it is not yet time for he even had to force Locsin to go to the two of them to settle down. Ryan Agoncillo & Judy Ann Santos the hospital. "I have so many things to do. Kung "Ako lang talaga ang nag-ayos ng feeling ko marami pa akong dapat She may be madly in love with "Kasalanan sa Diyos kung ide-deny lahat na ma-confine siya because I gawin, triple 'yon para kay Angel. Mas fiancée Ryan Agoncillo but Judy Ann ko na kasal kami at kasalanan din sa knew she was not feeling well. At may marami pa siyang kailangang gawin," Santos is not about to tie the knot just mga tao kung kasal nga kami or hindi. pagkamatigas ang ulo noon at hindi ko he said. a yet with the actor-host. Even kung secretly married kami, one In an interview with ABS-CBN thing or another ay magpapa-interview Piolo shares agreement with son regarding News, Santos was caught by surprise pa din kami to let everybody know na when asked about rumors that she and nagpakasal kami," she said. showbiz aspirations Agoncillo were secretly married. The actress also dismissed reports "Ayaw ko talaga. I'm so strict about "Saan nanggaling 'yon? Hindi. that she will be getting married on her that because I want him to prioritize his Hindi paano naman mangyayari 'yon 31st birthday on May 11. education. Given a choice, bata pa December umalis ako tapos January, "Alam mo, hindi ko ko nga alam 'yon and iba yung education. Hindi mo wala pang pangalawang linggo umalis ang gagawin ko sa birthday ko na mababalikan yon. Sabi ko maski na naman ako, so, no, no, no," she said. hanggang ngayon. Nandoon kami sa high school, then after that we choose. "Hindi ko alam kung saan desisyon ng bahay muna kasi hindi But ako, kung ako ang masusunod, nangggaling 'yan (kung) sa mga taong kami pwedeng mag-settle down ng ayaw ko talaga," the actor said. excited na talaga masyado o sa mga wala kaming pupuntahan, na wala Actor Piolo Pascual shared that he Pascual said that the agreement taong gumagawa (lang) ng istorya pero kaming maayos na foundation," she made a compromise agreement with with his 11-year-old son has inspired hindi (totoo yan)." said. his son Inigo regarding the boy's the boy to do better in school. It will be remembered that Santos The actress reiterated that she and desire to become a star. Pascual said "He understands it. That's why he went to United States to lobby for her Ryan are setting their sights on their that he still does not want his son to is doing better in school. Because he is independent movie “Ploning” to be future life together including the join showbusiness. But he added that motivated, he wants to impress us included in the shortlist of Oscars for its possibility of having children. after spending time with Inigo during (para) pumayag kami. But I told him Best Foreign Film category. “Kinabukasan yung iniisip namin. the holiday break, he agreed to my condition is that he has to finish Santos said she will be the first to Palagi naming sinasabi ang kasal confirm to everyone that she is getting madali lang yan pero sa amin, reconsider his decision once his son high school first," he added. a graduates from high school. married because it is a sin to tell a lie. pinaghahandaan namin yung buhay ng www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 21 pamilya namin, yung pamumuhay ng teleserye "Humingi Ako Sa Langit." anak namin, ‘yun ang iniisip namin,” Agoncillo is currently the male lead in Mega and Ai-Ai in Star she said. the hit teleserye "Pieta" with actress Santos, one of ABS-CBN's foremost Cherie Gil. a Cinema’s “Mother’s Day” Movie drama talents, is set to topbill the Will Miriam replace Lara as Wowowee Co-host? Willie Revillame as a possible replacement of Precious Lara Quigaman (another Bb. Pilipinas beauty and 2005 Miss International no less) who was asked to quit the show when she violated an unwritten rule about bringing a boyfriend to the set. “Willie has been looking for a possible replacement for Lara,” said the ABS-CBN insider, “at siempre gusto niya ay isa ring international beauty queen. It was Willie who suggested that Miriam be included as one of the judges in the Miss Fitrum finals.” Ai Ai De Las Alas Sharon Cuneta During a casual on-air interview, Ai Ai de las Alas got herself two "My God!" Ai Ai exclaimed. "That’s Miriam Quiambao Willie sent Miriam a “feeler” while briefly bonuses from Star Cinema, which another bonus na too good to be true." mentioning what happened to Lara. In last Saturday’s edition of the produced her blockbuster movie, "Ang Although she has always said she “Wala ka bang boyfriend?” Willie asked ABS-CBN noontime show Wowowee, Natatanging Ina N’yong Lahat," its entry is a die-hard Vilma Santos fan, she Miriam jokingly. Miriam hesitated and three Bb. Pilipinas-Universe title-holders in the last Metro Manila Film Festival claims she is also a Sharonian. said, “How did you know?” and then sat as judges of the Miss Fitrum search (MMFF). Will there be a billing problem? laughed. — Gloria Diaz (1969 Miss Universe), She got the surprise during the Whose name will have first billing in the The truth is that after she separated Margie Moran (1973 Miss Universe) and victory party Star Cinema hosted for the movie? After all, her recent MMFF movie from Claudio Rondinelli, her Italian- Miriam Quiambao (1999 Miss Universe cast and crew of the movie, which was has proven that Ai Ai is a box-office star. businessman husband, Miriam briefly first runner-up), together with couturiers adjudged by the MMFF committee as "Naku naman," said Ai Ai, "Mega dated only one guy, also a foreigner. Rajo Laurel and Renee Salud, and the festival’s top grosser. ‘yang artistang pinag-uusapan natin. Don’t get Willie wrong. Any of his Gabby Concepcion. At the party, Ai Ai received a check Alam ko naman kung saan ipupuwesto female co-hosts can have a boyfriend, Miriam’s guesting in an ABS-CBN with an amount which she describes as ang sarili ko." why not, but they should refrain from show made some people wonder what "too good to be true." It was handed to We also heard from Malou that their bringing their boyfriends to work so she’s up to since she’s an exclusive her by ABS-CBN’s CEO Gabby Lopez. MMFF entry for December will definitely they (co-hosts) won’t be distracted, contract artist of rival station GMA 7. Next came the announcement from be another Ai Ai movie, another sequel especially during Wowowee’s staging Was Miriam, or her manager Annabelle Star Cinema’s managing director Malou to her "Ina" series. abroad. Rama, sort of “testing the waters”? Santos that Ai Ai’s next movie will be The films will be directed by Wenn If and when Miriam decides to jump Yes, they were. That’s according to with Sharon Cuneta. It will be released Deramas, who was at the helm of the ober da bakod and join Wowowee, she an ABS-CBN insider who added that in May, according to Malou, as Star "Ina" series. a should take note of that. a Miriam is being eyed by Wowowee host Cinema’s Mother’s Day presentation. The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads ADVERTISING DRIVING HELP WANTED TECHNICIAN Cheapest way to advertise! Heading Licensed driving instructor Domestic help wanted. One day per + 1 line = $10. addiitional lines $2 with many-years week. Cleaning, laundry, cooking, Having computer problems? per line. Fax your text to experience and tips on how to grocery shopping and errands. Near Call (514) 770-4066, 342-3066 An experienced Filipino computer 514-485-3076, or e-mail to pass the road test. Save your Charlevoix Metro Station. References technician can come to your place [email protected] time. Exam car available. required. 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Charged were Erlinda Panlilio, The respondents were then Marlo Cristobal, Nicole Morris, Jose appointed trustees of Heacock, he Marcel Panlilio and Herminio Valerio. added. However, Heacock later learned Prosecutors said the businessmen that the respondents – using a new were associated with the late strongman corporate name, Rizal Park Corp., and Ferdinand Marcos. presenting another title – sold the In a nine-page resolution dated Jan. property to Beaumont Holdings Corp. 19, State Prosecutor Phillip dela Cruz on May 15, 2007 for P25 million, Alvarez said the circumstances of the case show said. that all the elements of syndicated Alvarez said the respondents also estafa are present in the case. tried to sell the Luneta Hotel in “Records showed that respondents September 1987 to JBA Group of have resorted to at least two instances Management and Development Corp, of falsification of public documents in but the Registry of Deeds of Manila found that they were using a fake title. In the second attempt to sell the hotel, Cristobal – representing himself as the duly elected corporate secretary of RPHI – filed a petition for lost duplicate copy of the title, Alvarez said. During preliminary investigation, the respondents denied the charges against them. They questioned the Deeds of Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton another weight class for his next high- Assignment of Heacock as incomplete formally agreed Wednesday to fight for profile pay-per-view fight. and the period of its effectivity lapsed. Hatton's 140-pound title on May 2, "I always like new challenges, DOJ prosecutors, however, said the ending several weeks of negotiating which is the reason I am anxious to case has become a question of and posturing. fight Ricky Hatton," Pacquiao said in a “credibility of statements of witnesses” Pacquiao (48-3-2, 36 KOs), statement released by Top Rank. "My that should be resolved in a full-blown generally considered the world's top trainer, Freddie Roach, will put together court trial. pound-for-pound fighter, will go after a new game plan which will be much In 2007, Beaumont announced the Hatton's IBO junior welterweight belt at different than the one we used against hotel would undergo structural the MGM Grand Garden in Las Vegas. Oscar. There are concerns because rehabilitation and retrofitting. The hotel Pacquiao nearly scuttled the bout Hatton is a very strong puncher, so I is dubbed as one of the few remaining several times in recent weeks while must deal with that in the ring." structures that survived World War II. demanding a bigger share of the Hatton (45-1, 32 KOs) is one of It is also being touted as the only lucrative purse, even forcing Golden Britain's most popular athletes, but the order to sell and dispose Transfer structure in the country reminiscent of Boy Promotions to cancel a media tour Manchester-born brawler lost his only Certificate of Title NO. T-110068,” he French Renaissance architecture with planned for this week. Top Rank previous fight against a boxer of said. Filipino stylized beaux arts. promoter Bob Arum finally persuaded Pacquiao's stature when Floyd Completed in 1918, it was designed “Evidently, respondents’ actuations Pacquiao to sign the necessary Mayweather Jr. stopped him in by Spanish architect-engineer Salvador negate their claim of good faith and lend contracts after reaching a reworked December 2007. Hatton beat Paulie credence to complainants’ claims.” Farre, according to a study by Dean deal with Hatton's representatives Malignaggi last fall in his most recent Investigations showed the five John Joseph Fernandez of the earlier this week. bout. respondents were incorporators of Rizal University Of Santo Tomas College Of The Philippines' most famous man Hatton has a promotional deal with Park Hotel Inc. (RPHI), the registered Architecture. is at the top of his talents after De La Hoya's Golden Boy Promotions. owner of the Luneta Hotel and the 450- The dilapidated building was "We are very excited that this fight square-meter lot where it stands in front declared a historical landmark by the brutalizing Oscar De La Hoya in their of Rizal Park along T.M. Kalaw Street in National Historical Institute. It is fight on Dec. 6, forcing the Golden Boy has been made, as it is the fight fans Manila. protected by Presidential Decree 1505, to quit after eight rounds. Pacquiao wanted and the one I look forward to The case arose from a complainant which makes it unlawful to alter or moved all the way up to welterweight seeing myself," De La Hoya said. "This filed by H.E. Heacock Resources Corp., destroy the original features of an edifice for that bout after fighting just once fight has all the makings of a Fight of represented by corporate secretary classified by the NHI “without prior above 130 pounds in his career before the Year candidate and I think Hatton Santiago Alvarez Jr., before the written permission from its chairman.” a then, and the former five-division will dethrone Pacquiao and become Department of Justice (DOJ). champion will move back down to yet boxing's pound-for-pound king."a ACCOUNTING AND INCOME TAX SERVICES 5871 Victoria Ave. Suite 111, Montreal H3W 2R7 FAIZ (corner Bourret near Cote St. Catherine) Telephone: 514-733-5611 Fax: 514-733-0230 Come and see us soon !!! 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www.filipinostar.org January 2009 The North American Filipino Star 23 ‘Beverly Hills balikbayan’ takes PNP bans patrol cars from top cop for a ride escorting politicians

The “Beverly Hills, California” about the robbery and that he was Mayors, governors and other vehicles by politicians would deprive resident who claimed got mugged on merely looking for a job in Metro Manila. politicians can no longer use patrol the police of the ability to immediately his first visit to the country is now Mabanag could well have made out cars of the Philippine National Police respond to any crime or emergency behind bars after police said he was Harvard among Annapolis, Cambridge (PNP) as their personal security situation. nothing but a scam artist. or Oxford in Cubao, where Sangalang escort vehicles. Verzosa noted that the policy Supt. Franklin Moises Mabanag, claimed he was brought to by chief of the Criminal Investigation and Penequito Gallardo, the taxi driver would be applied even to vehicles Detection Unit, said that perjury and whom he had tagged as the one who “We do not allow these vehicles to be donated by local government units as other charges would be slapped robbed him Sunday dawn. used for personal purposes. They’re he explained that once they are against Richard Sangalang, 24, a.k.a. Sangalang introduced himself as a prohibited to be used for other than turned over to various PNP units, the Nathan Santos Smith, for having Harvard law student, residing in Beverly official police functions,” Director organization shall have control and inveigled the police official into giving Hills, California. General Jesus Verzosa said as he supervision of these cars. him P2,500 transportation money “But when I asked him where marked his first 100 days yesterday “If they need escorts because of because of his sob story. Harvard is, he could not give a definite as chief of the PNP. certain serious security concerns, “We checked all his claims. We answer. Also, the address in Baguio In imposing the order, Verzosa then they should apply for it. And it spent money to dig his record at the turned out to be a Born-Again Christian said there is an existing guideline can only be done (for a) very limited immigration bureau, Peninsula Manila church while the room in Peninsula against the use of PNP-acquired period,” he said. and the address he gave in Baguio City. where he claimed he and his aunt were vehicles for personal purposes and Verzosa said he will ask None of those were true. So I sent him billeted, was likewise fictitious.” as back-up security vehicles of concerned directorate units to set up to jail,” a furious Mabanag told In his earlier statement, Sangalang politicians. a PNP motor pool for police vehicles said he boarded Gallardo’s cab at the Standard Today. Many politicians, particularly local to ensure that they are properly “When he came back, he acted Ninoy Aquino International Airport, government officials in far-flung maintained and the assigned drivers strange. He just sat there and stared at asking to be brought to a Pasay City nothing for three hours. I guess he is bus terminal for a Baguio-bound ride. areas, use PNP vehicles that have are required to take care of the deranged. I might refer him to the Instead, he said, Gallardo drove to official PNP markings, sirens and vehicles’ maintenance. mental hospital.” Ali Mall, where an accomplice boarded blinkers as personal back-up or Last week, the PNP acquired 664 Inside the detention cell, the the cab and purportedly helped in security vehicles in moving about in assorted patrol cars and Scene of the English-speaking Sangalang, cracked robbing him. their areas of jurisdiction, according Crime Operatives vehicles to be and turned out to be a native Filipino Mabanag said the driver has been to Verzosa. distributed nationwide. The PNP has speaker. released from police custody but not He said some of them even use over 9,000 vehicles, including “Ako po si Richard Sangalang taga- without the usual grilling and much ado government-issued ambulances in motorcycles and patrol cars. a Capas, Tarlac po [I’m Richard about nothing. carrying out activities such as ferrying Sangalang from Capas, Tarlac, sir],” he “I also gave him some money to their children to and from school. told this reporter. make up for his lost income when we The PNP chief said the He admitted having spun a yarn invited him for questioning,” he said. a continuous use of PNP-marked

www.filipinostar.org The North American Filipino Star January 2009 24 Education raises the bar but lowers the barriers to a rewarding career.

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