Quebec’s future is at stake on April 7 Every time there is an election, we have always tried to encourage a higher voter participation. From the recent past electiions, voters have been very indifferent and have been staying away from the polls. But the issues in this election scheduled for April 7, called by the current PQ government may attract more people to be more interested in the issues that will determine the future of this province. Thee are known to be five issues which will be debated by the party leaders, namely, sovereignty, economy and jobs, health, and corruption and ethics. If the PQ government win a majority, it is feared that a referendum to separate from the rest of Canada may happen sooner than later although Pauline Marois has always stated that she will wait for the right conditions before calling for a referendum. But many people now are doubting her and asking whether or not she will keep her word. During the first leaders debate held on Thursday night, March 20, Pauline

See Page 4 Quebec elections From left: Françoise David of the Quebec Solidaire party, François Legault of CAQ, Pauline Marois of the PQ, and Philippe Couillard of the Liberal Party. Who among these candidates shall be elected premier of Quebec on April 7, 2014? (Photo: Canadian Press) First Filipino-Canadian Young Leaders Summit promotes a new vision of the future On Saturday, March 8, 2014, at neurship, benevolence, fellowship and St. Michael’s College in Toronto, the civic-minded citizenship. first Filipino-Canadiian Young Leaders Providing the background Summit assembled one of the most about Philippine history and culture, inspiring group of speakers who Dr. Anton Juan spoke about the appeared to be similarly motivated - to qualities of a good leader, values that make a difference in making this world are typicallly Filipino. Following his a better place. It was described as an lecture was an academic who made a initiative supported by the Philippine stunning observation about the Embassy in Ottawa, the Philippine invisibility of Filipino-Canadians in the Consulate General in Toronto and mainstream society, its contributing Eskwela Incorporated. Youth delegates factors and how we should start to came from Toronto, Windsor, Hamilton, make some changes. Professor Edmonton, and Montreal. Ambassador Roland Coloma of the University of Leslie Gatan gave the opening remakrs Toronto suggested ways to break this and welcomed everyone to the cycle in the current and the next conference. generation of Filipino-Canadians. The speeches delivered during Filipinos are known to have Speakers in the afternoon session answered questions from the audience. From left: Vincent this day-long summit were full of started immigrating to Canada for at Villanis, Thomas Ancheta, Veraida Bermejo, Mithi Esguerra, Iloilo Mayor Jed Mabilog and inspirational stories of passion, Atty. Rafael Fabregas who is planning to run in the forthcoming federal elections. commitment, leadership, entrepre- See P.4 Young Laders Summit

www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 forces access to fewer military bases,” Secretary Herminio Coloma said over Ambassador Eduardo Malaya, a Radyo ng Bayan that Umali called Philippine News member of the panel negotiating with the Purisima because Umali’s lawyer Atty. Americans, said. Gilberto Repizo — Umali’s province mate Philippines offers U.S. forces access to military bases and friend — requested it. He quoted Manila refused a request for use of Umali as saying that Repizo wanted to Source: Chicago Tribune civilian airfields and ports, like Subic “clarify the basis for the arrest of Mr. Lee MANILA (Reuters) – The Philippines Freeport Bay, Laoag and Davao because as far as his camp knew, the has agreed to allow the United States Manila would welcome the return of a international airports, according to the Court of Appeals already has a decision access to its military bases under a U.S. military presence to deter China’s military official. in favor of his client.” the arrest warrant new security deal being negotiated by ambitions in the South China Sea, and remained valid. However, Coloma the two allies, amid mounting concern to help provide humanitarian Batino said the agreement will be legally couldn’t say if P-Noy was convinced of over China’s increasing assertiveness assistance during natural disasters. binding but will not require ratification by Umali’s explanation. in the disputed waters of the South the Philippine Senate, which could delay Housing loan scam China Sea. “It will not stop China from its bullying the actual U.S. deployment. GlobeAsiatique's Xevera Subdivision in tactics, but it will become more Mabalacat, Pampanga. The offer was made during a sixth cautious and might exercise self- (Reporting By Manuel Mogato; Editing round of talks held in Washington last restraint due to the U.S. presence,” by Simon Cameron-Moore) GlobeAsiatique’s Xevera Subdivision in week, Filipino officials said on Friday. Rommel Banlaoi, an analyst at March 17, 2014 | Opinion, PerryScope Mabalacat, Pampanga. The two sides hope to finalize terms Philippine Institute of Peace, Violence PerryScope Lee was charged with syndicated estafa, before U.S. President Barack Obama and Terrorism Research, said. By Perry Diaz a nonbailable offense, in connection with embarks on a visit to Asia, including two housing projects in Pampanga the Philippines, next month. “The Philippines will also benefit from province. He was accused of using more exercises and more assistance Task Force Tugis fictitious members of the Home “Consensus was arrived at on many from the U.S. and it will elevate the Development Mutual Fund (Pag-Ibig provisions of the draft agreement,” Pio Philippines to a major non-NATO ally in leader Sr. Fund), a government program, to obtain Lorenzo Batino, defense the Pacific.” Superintendent housing loans – totaling P6.6 billion – that undersecretary told a news he used in GlobeAsiatique’s Xevera conference, adding the deal is 80 Friction between China and the Conrad Capa subdivisions in Bacolor and Mabalacat percent done. Philippines and other states in the towns of Pampanga between 2008 and region, over disputed territories in the 2011. It all began last March 6, 2014 when the “The proposed agreement will allow South China Sea has increased since Philippine National Police (PNP) arrested the sharing of defined areas within last year despite diplomatic efforts to Lee pulled the scam by using non- fugitive real estate developer Delfin Lee certain AFP (Armed Forces of the forge an agreement on maritime existent or fake homebuyers and paying at the Hyatt Regency Hotel and Casino them to apply for Pag-Ibig home loans. Philippines)facilities with elements of conduct. in Ermita, Manila. With a P2-million price After the homes were built, the U.S. military.” on his head since 2012, his capture GlobeAsiatique would then sell them to The dispute revolves round competing ended a nationwide manhunt by PNP’s other homebuyers who would discover The United States plans to “rebalance” claims over the Spratlys, a group of its forces in Asia-Pacific region, and 250 uninhabitable islets spread over has similar arrangements with Australia 165,000 square miles. and Singapore, as part of its strategy to counter China. On Sunday, three Chinese coast guard ships stopped two Filipino civilian

Gov. Alfonso Umali (center) with Pres. Aquino and unidentified official.

elite Task Force Tugis. later that the homes they bought were in the names of bogus or ghost But no sooner had Lee been in police homeowners. custody than a series of unusual events started to happen. First, Oriental Mindoro Governor Alfonso Umali reportedly Landing support specialists back away after connecting a Humvee to a Marine Corps MV-22B phoned PNP Director General Alan Osprey during external lift training at Subic Bay, Philippines, during exercise Freedom Banner Purisima in connection with Lee’s arrest. 2013. (Pfc. Kasey Peacock/Marine Corps) The following day, President Benigno “P- Noy” Aquino III sent a text message to The new agreement on enhanced vessels from delivering food, water and Umali, a ranking political ally and defense cooperation will allow the construction materials to troops based Treasurer of the Liberal Party, asking him United States increased deployment of on a ship that was deliberately run to explain why he phoned Purisima? troops, ships, aircraft and humanitarian aground on reef in the Spratlys in 1999 Gov. Alfonso Umali (center) with Pres. equipment. to reinforce the Philippines’ claim. Aquino and unidentified official. Manhunt U.S. military access in the Philippines Manila called the Chinese actions “a Gov. Alfonso Umali (center) with Pres. Delfin Lee is currently limited to during annual clear and urgent threat to the rights Aquino and unidentified official. joint-exercises and port visits. The and interests of the Philippines”. Philippines kicked the United States In a press briefing, presidential On May 22, 2012, a Regional Trial Court out two large military bases, including Under the draft accord, the Philippines spokesman Edwin Lacierda said that in Pampanga issued a warrant for the Subic Bay, in 1991. will allow U.S. forces joint use of Umali called P-Noy and explained why he arrest of Lee, his son Dexter, and three called Purisima. Lacierda said that P-Noy facilities in several military bases like officers of GlobeAsiatique. The manhunt was “satisfied” with Umali’s explanation; was on. It involved the PNP and the While that ended a special relationship Manila, Clark, Palawan, Cebu, Nueva however, he did not elaborate what was going back 40 years between the Ecija, and La Union, a military official National Bureau of Investigation (NBI). Umali’s explanation. Last December, after 20 months of hard United States and its former colony with knowledge of the negotiations. won its independence in 1946, an In an attempt to put a positive note to See Page 5 Philippine News alliance has endured. “We are only offering U.S. military Umali’s explanation, Communications www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 3 Featured Opinion They just lie there and they die there March 25, 2014 action,” Santiago said. “We don’t want ON DISTANT SHORE public interest to die on this matter because it’s just too important. Plunder is By Val G. Abelgas just too important to the national Grace Pulido Tan economy.” Two feisty woman officials reminded us One wonders why despite the last week why campaigns against voluminous evidence and the many corruption in the Philippines never witnesses who have willingly testified to succeed. They don’t succeed because the extent of the corruption involving the after the corrupt acts are exposed and Priority Development Assistance Fund publicized, there is no follow-up, much (PDAF) or the congressional pork barrel, less prosecution of the accused. the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) or the presidential pork barrel, the Chairman Grace Pulido-Tan of the Malampaya Fund and several programs Commission on Audit (COA) has ordered of the Department of Agriculture and the the agency’s officials to monitor Department of Agrarian Reform, the compliance with recommendations Ombudsman has not filed any formal contained in annual audit reports to charges before the Sandiganbayan ensure that government agencies and against those implicated in the shameless Grace Pulido Tan institutions take them seriously and act to scams. Manila Bay reclamation area, which the impeachment trial of Chief Justice implement such corrective measures. Ombudsman deemed as overpriced by Renato Corona, and the billions more in Are the exposes being squeezed dry by 250 percent and the bridge by 67 Tan hopes the new system would put an agriculture funds that were allegedly the administration and its allies to percent; end to auditors reporting the same coursed through fake NGOs. damage the reputation of some leaders of recurring problem every year because the opposition and possible contenders The P200-million Jose Pidal case, there are no follow-ups to In most of these cases, the culprits for either the presidency or the vice wherein Sen. Panfilo Lacson accused recommendations. Audit findings will remain free, the whistleblowers have presidency? Is the Aquino administration Mike Arroyo of amassing more than P200 then not suffer the same fate as dreams in either been silenced or are now six feet really serious in prosecuting the big million from campaign contributions of the song “Mona Lisa,” Tan said, where under, and only the case against Abalos fishes in these scams regardless of party her wife and putting the money in secret they “just lie there and die there.” and Neri in the NBN-ZTE deal has been affiliations, or will these scandals go the bank accounts, including that of “Jose filed by the Ombudsman, and the way of previous corruption scandals that Pidal”; the $503-million Northrail project, Sen. Miriam Defensor Santiago, on the Executive Department has blocked have been left unresolved? which former Senate President Franklin other hand, is exasperated that no investigations by fraudulently invoking Drilon described as one of the “colossal charges have been filed in court against executive privilege. Let us look at the numerous corruption corrupt deals” of the Arroyo those named in numerous exposes and scandals that have shocked the nation in administration; the $329-million National Senate committee hearings, and said the The only case that landed in court – the the last few years, but have remained Broadband Network; the $466-million Ombudsman should start filing cases $2-million bribery case against former unresolved: Cyber Education Project; the P728-million against those implicated in the P10-billion Justice Secretary Hernani Perez – was fertilizer fund scam; the still to be probed pork barrel scam. obviously mishandled by the The P1.3-billion election computerization P3.1-billion irrigation project just before Ombudsman and was dismissed two deal with Mega Pacific to supply the the 2004 elections whose funds the “Since it has been six months, I think it years ago. Commission on Elections (Comelec) Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas claims would be best if the Ombudsman could at which the Supreme Court voided were diverted to the campaign; the P455- least file some of the cases in court now All these corruption scandals hogged the because the deal was tainted “with graft million ice making machine scam also because the public are getting jaded with headlines for days, only to die down and legal infirmities;” the alleged P532.9- under the Department of Agriculture; the these public revelations in the Senate when another scandal, either in million overpricing of the President P5-billion swine scam; and the P120- probe plus they are not seeing any government or in show business, Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard in the million Ginintuang Masagani Ani (GMA) displaced them on the headlines. In the project scam. Philippines, corruption scandals are never resolved; they just fade away. Add to these the P10-billion pork barrel scam, the P900-Malapampaya fund Or as the COA chief said: “They just lie mess, the billions DAP funds illegally there, and they die there.” doled out to senators and congressmen before, during and after the ([email protected])

5320-A Queen Mary Road Tel.: 514-485-7861 Montreal, Quebec H3X 1T7 E-Mail: [email protected] Roman Gordy, B.A., B.C.L. Published by: Filcan Publications, Inc. AVOCAT ATTORNEY AT LAW Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Immigration Chief Editor & Publisher W.G. Quiambao Community News Civil Law - Commercial Law - Mediation Al Abdon Sam Kevin Tel. 514-664-5404 Alberto Baens Santos News & Layout Editor Michael Davantes Fax: 514-849-3101 Bernardo Sarmiento Columnists Bert Abiera 1117 St. Catherine W. Suite 406 Founder Opinion Editorial Montreal, QC H3B 1H9 The opinions expressed by the writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of the North American Filipino Star nor its editors. [email protected]

www.filipinostar.org 4 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 urged the audience not to be afraid to From Page 4 Young Leaders and to be a candidate in the next federal Friday at 7 p.m. “rock the boat.” He believed in looking elections. He said there is no time like least several decades but remained to for a better way of doing things, and not the present and that he considers those B ackground information be virtually “invisible” in the politcal to be content with the old way which around him as part of his family. If he The Young Filipino-Canadian scene. Professor Roland Coloma used does not achieve our goals. For becomes an MP, he will look at policies Leaders Summit came out of the the insights gathered from research example, he mentioned that most that seem to over-emphasize economic following identified issues experienced, work done in academia and urged the community organizations are content immigrants. He wants to look at the observed and studied by a focused audience to examine the contributing with holding social dances and raising direction of citizenship policies. Under group of Filipino-Canadian outh leaders: factors and discover ways to improve money by soliciting ads in their souvenir the current policies, how will Canada • The need to foster the current state. He asked: What’s programs. He narrated his experience look like? He is interested in the understanding and bridge generation wrong with Filipinos?” Why is it that the of having challenged the old way and following: training, credentials gaps between parents and their biggest concentration in Canada does organized his own fund raising drive. recognition, early childhood education, children, as well as among generations not have anyone elected in public offce? He succeeded in raising an amount that wellness programs for seniors. of Filipino/Filipino-Canadian youth from One reason is due to the fact that those no one expected he could ever make. It was about 10 years ago when 1st, 1.5 and 2nd generations. who are in the grassroots level of Veraida Bermejo, president of we had Dr. Rey Pagtakhan as a member • The need to understand and leadership remain unrecognized. the Pamana ni Luzminda dance troupe, of parliament but since then we do not address the invisibility of the Filipino Perhaps, if we build the capacity of traced the history of the organization have anyone from our community. The community in Canadian society. and mentioned how they have been hurdles that Filipino-Canadian Filipinos are the largest source of community faces are: mistakes in the migrant labour in Canada. Filipinos are kind of expectations we make of the 4th largest visible minority according ourselves, gender-based barriers, to the 2006 Statistics Canada. Filipinos access to justice where we need more are one of the most highly educated leaders, the difficulty of organizing immigrants migrating to Canada. ourselves. and low voter turnout, However, it has been argued that due to approximately 20-30%. de-skilling and devaluing of their On the other hand, Atty education and work experience, as well Fabregas is encouraged by the as the experiences of discrimination and achievement of one woman who was in racism, Filipinos and their contributions the LICP (Live-in Caregiver Program) to the Canadian society continue to be who died in 2009 but left a lasting invisible. legacy. Juana Tejada was able to Objectives change the law. The government More specifically, the Young Filipino- reversed the condition of a second Canadian Leaders Summit aims to medical exam for live-in caregivers provide youth of Filipino descent aged before they can get their permanent 18-35, and accompanying residence status in Can ada. leaders/coordinators/mentors, with an The final speaker of the understanding of their history, both Dr. Anton Juan receiving a plaque of appreciation from Ambassador Leslie Gatan while afternoon was Senator Thomas En Philippine and the Canadian Professor Orlando Coloma waits for his turn. verga, the first Filipino-Canadian connection, provide them tools that they appointed by Prime Minister Harper to can bring home to their community, and those who are already in the trenches, acclaimed not only locally but also the Senate. He offered many ideas on provide them with opportunities to we might make the changes needed to internationally. how to be a good leader and get network with other Filipinos and overcome our invisibility. Vincent Villanis, a young support from your followers. Some community leades. Mayor Jed Mabilog from Iloilo entrepreneur who used to be a troubled examplles of good advice he gave are:- Vision City exemplified an ideal way of youth was able to change and became Be passionate about your ideals; Lead From such a context, the Young Filipino- managing public funds honestly and engaged in developing a new product - by example, a leader is also a great Canadian Leaders Summit hopes to competently. His entry into politics was distilling beer from bamboo. His follower, do not stay too long, and do provide a space and opportunity for described as an answser to a challenge company produces, and distributes not forget your roots. He quoted from a youth of Fiulipino-descent to explore from a political old guard. During his bamboo beer to restaurants and bars. Japanese proverb at the end of his and create a fulelr sense of their identity administration, the City of Iloilo has This beer is not yet available in grocery speech: towards the ultimate outcome of been the recipient of many awards for outlets. Vision without action is a inspiring a generation of youth who will innovation and for being the greenest In the field of civil rights and daydream; Action whithout a Vision is a be the visible and a united national force city in the regioin. He explained the social action, co-founder of two nightmare. in Canadian society. steps in achieving a transformational organizations, Mithi Esguerra spoke At the end of the conference, Mission style of leadership which he described about her experience with the MMTV Executive Producer Zenaida The Young Filipino-Camadian as “a leadership that builds, nurtures Community Alliance for Social Justice. Kharroubi interviewed Ambassador Leaders Summit aims to empower and grows.” The biggest hurdle is how to reach out Leslie Gatan, Senator Thomas Enverga, youth, cultivate pride and provide youth During the afternoon session, to other young people. Atty Rafael Fabregas, Vincent Villanis, with the tools and support to be able to several young leaders gave testimonails Atty. Rafael Fabregas, named Thomas Ancheta, Iloilo City Mayor Jed not just aecho but also put into action about their experiences in different as an outstanding Filipino Youth in 2010, Mabilog, and the undefeated lightweight the vision of the summit within their own areas. cited some population figures from 2011 boxer, Mark Pagkaliwangan. These regioknal community groups. In the field of organizing the statistics: 500,000 Filipinos in Canada, interviews will be featured in two youth, Thomas Ancheta who is a 220,00 concentrated in Ontario and out episodes of Mabuhay Montreal TV. to be marketing graduate from Edmonton, of this number, 180,000 are in Toronto, broadcast over ICI on Videotron spoke passionately about his vision. He but no representative in the House of Channel 16/616HD, and Bell Fibe Commons. His goal is to change this 216/1216 HD. Watch for this show every

Marois said the only woman to score points and improve their standing in slightly ahead in the Montérégie region. From Page 1 Quebec Elections lose her job has been Liberal MNA Fatima the polls. The polls suggests that the Parti Houda-Pepin, who quit the Liberal caucus A new poll by Léger Marketing Quebecois’ early focus on their Marois spent much of her time defending and opted to sit as an independent when says the Liberal Party of Quebec is ahead controversial values charter, a Quebec her government's record on the economy, she refused to the toe the party line against in voter intentions and are heading towards referendum and the introduction of media job creation and social development and the charter. Marois also contended that a a majority government in the April 7 mogul Pierre Karl Peladeau have in fact, pledged there would be no referendum on transition period would allow women election. fizzled with voters. sovereignty unless Quebecers were ready affected by the legislation to adjust to the The poll, published in the Journal The second leaders debate will be for one. ban. de Montréal on Tuesday, shows the held on Thursday, March 27, 2014. It is On the PQ government's In an exchange with Quebec Liberals with 40% support, followed by the expected that there will be an intense heat proposed secular charter, Marois Solidaire's Françoise David on the charter, Parti Québécois with 33%, the Coalition from alll the parties involved as the election challenged Liberal leader Philippe Couillard said he believes in protecting Avenir Québec with 15%, and Québec draws closer. Couillard to tell voters to vote PQ if the individual freedom, which he said is solidaire with nine per cent. charter is what they want. Let’s get involved and go essential to democracy. The poll, which had 3,692 Couillard instead challenged "It is something that protects us all respondents, making it the largest sample out and vote Marois to tell Quebecers how many women against oppression.” taken in this election, also shows the We elect the were going to be fired as a result of the The second leaders debate is Liberals ahead in most of Quebec’s charter, which bans the wearing of overt governmment that we scheduled for Thursday, March 27. It is regions. It leads in the Outaouais, Montreal, religious symbols among public service expected that all the leaders will not hold Laval, Estrie, Chaudière-Appalaches, deserve. workers. their fire power against one another to Mauricie and Quebec City regions, and www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 5 According to a survey by men's “24 Oras.” Indeed, with four more to go, footwear brand Allen Edmonds, 64 Capa was probably enthused to doing his percent of women judge a man's very best to capture them. Nothing – or fashion sense based on his shoes; 52 nobody – could stop him now, he percent of women say they judge a man's personality by his shoes; 36 percent say they use shoes to determine a man's financial position while 54 percent say men's shoes reflect a guy's attention to detail. Indeed, a man would not be called detailed if he put on a nice suit and pairs it with clunky lace-ups.

Know your shoes There are numerous styles of shoes available for men such as dress shoes Humans began wearing shoes insulation from the cold. Footwear then for formal occasions, casual PNP Director General Alan Purisima some 26,000 to 40,000 years ago evolved into several designs as it became not just a necessity but also as shoes for regular days and athletic according to some anthropologists. probably mused. a status symbol. footwear for sports. If you want to make Early shoes were more like protective a good impression, invest in sacs - used as a barrier between sharp various pairs that go with certain type of Reward or punishment? objects on the ground and as Can a man be judged by his shoes? PNP Director General Alan Purisima outfit. Here are some options: But, alas, Capa couldn’t be farther from reality or to be more precise, realpolitik. What happened next stunned Capa and baffled many people. There was simply no reason why Capa’s boss, PNP Chief Purisima, would abruptly transfer him one week after Lee’s capture, to Cebu as Deputy Regional Director for Operations. In a press briefing, Purisima defended his action saying that Capa’s relief was not a punishment but a reward, a promotion. He said that Capa had been in the task force for a long time and was now due for a transfer. He added that the new assignment would give Capa a chance for a promotion to one-star general.

But Capa had none of that. Caught by surprise, he was frustrated by the sudden turn of events. He felt that his transfer was not a commendation for a job well done. He said that every officer in the PNP knows it’s not a promotion. Capa said that if Purisima had wanted to promote him, there were several vacant positions in Camp Crame, PNP’s headquarters, he could have been assigned to.

So, if it was not a commendation or reward, what was it then? Could it be that Lee’s arrest and the subsequent intervention of Umali had any bearing on Capa’s relief? Or could it be that Purisima punished Capa for reportedly leaking the information that Umali had called Purisima to intervene on behalf of Lee? Capa was suspected of spreading rumors that Umali had pressured Purisima to release Lee. But Capa denied that he was the one who leaked the information on Umali’s communication with Purisima. But regardless of who had leaked the information, the fact that Umali had indeed called Purisima on behalf of Lee’s lawyer, makes one wonder why would Lee’s lawyer break protocol on matters that should have been done through official channels?

From Page 2 Philippine News At the end of the day, Capa’s “problem” with his boss Purisima might not have investigative work, Task Force Tugis was been due to whether he leaked the able to track Lee living in a house in Metro Manila. When the task force led by Umali-Purisima telephone conversation Senior Superintendent Conrad Capa or not. His fate may have been sealed nabbed Lee last March 6, Capa must the moment he captured Lee. He had have felt proud for capturing one of the stepped on big toes…. very big toes. country’s most wanted fugitives, the so- And in military-oriented organizations called “Big Five,” which include former like the PNP, when you step on big Palawan governor Joel Reyes and his toes, you are punished by being kicked brother former Coron mayor Mario upstairs; that is, you’re assigned to a Reyes, former general Jovito Palparan, new job that seems to be more and former Dinagat congressman Ruben powerful but is actually less powerful, Ecleo. “We had five original targets. One which makes one wonder: was Conrad down, four to go. Hopefully, mahuli yung Capa kicked upstairs? the rest,” Capa said in a report aired on GlobeAsiatique’s Xevera Subdivision in Mabalacat, Pampanga. 6 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 Biology Engineering Research Center communities around the world. “Synbio (SYNBERC), a consortium of leading U.S. vanilla…could displace the demand for researchers in the field, some promising the natural vanilla market,” reports FoE. applications of synthetic biology include “Without the natural vanilla market adding alternatives to rubber for tires, tumor- economic value to the rainforest in these seeking microbes for treating cancer, and regions, these last standing rainforests photosynthetic energy systems. Other will not be pro¬tected from competing potential applications include using agricultural markets such as soy, palm oil synbio to detect and remove and sugar.” Critics of synbio also worry environmental contaminants, monitor and that releasing synthetic life into the respond to disease and develop new environment, whether done intentionally drugs and vaccines. or accidentally, could have adverse effects on our ecosystems. While these and other applications may not be widely available for years, Despite these risks, could the rewards of synthetic biology is already in use for embracing synthetic biology be great? creating food additives that will start to Could it help us deal with some of the show up in products on grocery shelves tough issues of climate change, pollution later this year. Switzerland-based Evolva and world hunger? Given that the genie is is using synthetic biology techniques to already out of the bottle, perhaps only produce alternatives to resveratrol, stevia, time will tell. EarthTalk® many utilities switching over to cleaner saffron and vanilla. The company’s E - The Environmental Magazine burning and increasingly cheaper natural “synthetic vanillin” is slated to go into CONTACTS: SYNBERC, Dear EarthTalk: If “cap and trade” has gas as well as less overall economic many foods as a cheaper and limitless www.synberc.org; FoE, www.foe.org; worked so well in Europe for reducing output due to the recession—led RGGI to version of real vanilla flavor. But many Evolva, www.evolva.com. greenhouse gas emissions there, why lower its overall annual cap from 165 health advocates are outraged that such a haven’t we tried something similar here in million to 91 million tons in 2014, with a product will be available to consumers EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy the U.S.? -- Sandra M., Bern, NC 2.5 percent reduction every year without more research into potential Scheer and Doug Moss and is a “Cap-and-trade,” whereby big thereafter until 2020. dangers and without any warnings or registered trademark of E - The polluters must pay to emit greenhouse Analysts expect this rejiggering gases against a capped total amount will drive the price of polluting five times that is reduced over time—has been in higher than it has been and thus force effect across the European Union (EU) utilities across the region to seek cleaner, since 2005. This so- called Emissions greener alternatives to coal as an Trading System (ETS) requires 11,000 of electricity feedstock. the largest electric and industrial facilities The other major U.S. cap-and- in 28 European countries to participate. trade player is California, which launched Some 45 percent of Europe’s total its own ETS in 2013 with a cap set initially greenhouse gas emissions are regulated at two percent below 2012 emission under the system. Proponents say the levels. The cap will then be reduced three ETS has succeeded in keeping percent a year greenhouse gas emissions in check and from 2015-2020. Some 600 facilities are making Europe a global leader on big enough polluters to qualify for climate. The EU reports that, by 2020, participation in the system, which will emissions from sectors covered by ETS cover around 85 percent of the state’s will be 21 percent lower than they were in total greenhouse gas emissions. Given 2005 and 43 percent lower by 2030. But that California in and of itself is the 12th critics argue that Europe’s reduced largest economy in the world, its forward- emissions may be more due to the global thinking commitment to cap-and-trade Proponents of synthetic biology tout its potential for bringing about great advances in medicine, energy and cheaper recession than the ETS, gives hope everywhere to fans of foods. But health advocates worry that the risks to health and the environment may be too great. Pictured: a researcher and that the cheap availability of marshalling market forces to bring about using "synbio" to engineer new microbes as an alternative to yeast for turning complex sugars into biofuels.Credit: Lawrence Berkeley Nationall Laboratory/Roy Kaltschmidt allowances has made it easier for environmental change. companies to pay to burn coal than CONTACTS: EU Emissions Trading labeling to let consumers know they are Environmental Magazine to switch to cleaner natural gas or invest System,eating organisms designed and brought (www.emagazine.com). Send questions more in carbon mitigation technologies. ec.europa.eu/clima/policies/ets/index_en. to life in a lab. to: [email protected]. Early in 2014 the EU htm; RGGI, tightened up its system by cutting the www.rggi.org; California Cap-and-Trade “This is the first major use of a synbio E - The Environmental Magazine number of new allowances it plans to Program,ingredient in food, and dozens of other issue over the next three years www.arb.ca.gov/cc/capandtrade/capandt flavors and food additives are in the Dear EarthTalk: I know that some of us are by a third while simultaneously creating a rade.htm. pipeline, so synbio vanilla could set a genetically predisposed to get cancer, but “market reserve” to absorb extra EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy dangerous precedent for synthetic what are some ways we can avoid known allowances as needed. Scheer and Doug Moss and is a genetically engineered ingredients to environmental triggers for it? Meanwhile, Switzerland, New registered trademark of E - The sneak into our food supply and be -- B. Northrup, Westport, MA Zealand, Australia, Kazakhstan and South Environmental Magazine labeled as ‘natural,’” reports Friends of Korea have each set up their (www.emagazine.com).Send the Earth (FoE), a leading environmental Cancer remains the scourge of the own national cap-and-trade programs to questionsto: [email protected]. group. “Synthetic biology vanillin poses American health care system, given that varying degrees of success, while several human health, environmental and four out of every 10 of us will be regional versions have popped Dear EarthTalk: Should those of us who economic concerns for consumers, food diagnosed with one form or another up within Japan, Canada and the U.S. care about our health and the planet be companies and other stakeholders.” during out lifetime. Some of us are As to the U.S., whether or not to establish concerned about the new trend in genetic genetically predisposed toward certain a nationwide cap-and-trade system here engineering called synthetic biology? For example, FoE worries that synbio types of cancers, but there is much we has been a hot topic of -- Chrissie Wilkins, Bern, NC vanilla (and eventually other synthetic can do to avoid exposure to carcinogens discussion in Congress. It last came up biology additives) could exacerbate in our environment. for a vote in 2010, but never found “Synthetic biology” (or “synbio”) refers to rainforest destruction while harming enough bi-partisan support to the design and fabrication of novel sustainable farmers and poor According to the Environmental Working become the law of the land. But in lieu of biological parts, devices and systems that any federal system, two U.S. regions have do not otherwise occur in nature. Many undertaken their own attempts at see it as an extreme version of genetic ratcheting down greenhouse gas engineering (GE). But unlike GE, whereby DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU emissions through market mechanisms: genetic information with certain desirable In 2009, 10 Northeastern states traits is inserted from one organism into CHIRURGIEN DENTISTE / DENTAL came together to create the Regional another, synbio uses computers and SURGEON Greenhouse Gas Initiative (RGGI) , a cap- chemicals to create entirely new and-trade system with the goal of organisms. reducing regional carbon emissions from 5790 Cote des Neiges Rd Suite A-024 the power sector Proponents of synbio, which include MONTREAL, QUEBEC PHONE: 514-340-8222 (4077) 10 percent from 2009 levels by 2018. familiar players such as Cargill, BP, H3S 1Y9 E-Mail: [email protected] Lower emissions than expected over the Chevron and Du Pont, tout its potential first five years of the program—thanks to benefits. According to the Synthetic www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 7

Group (EWG), a non-profit working to of BPA, a synthetic estrogen found in fuel emissions—or in a bottom-up fashion and switching out old lightbulbs with new protect public health and the some plastic water bottles, canned infant with individuals and businesses doing compact fluorescents (CFL) or LEDs will environment, a key first step in warding formula and canned foods. “To avoid it, their part by driving and flying less, keep carbon footprints down. If your utility off cancer is lifestyle change—“stopping eat fewer canned foods, breast feed your conserving more and embracing greener has a green energy option—with power smoking, reducing drinking, losing baby or use powdered formula, and forms of energy. Environmental leaders from wind, solar or other renewables— choose it, even if it costs more than the weight, exercising and eating right.” The choose water bottles free of BPA,” reports would like to see Americans take both coal-based electricity. And for things you American Cancer Society reports that EWG. Personal care products and paths to cut greenhouse gas emissions can’t change there are carbon offsets you smoking and poor nutrition each account cosmetics can also contain carcinogens. as fast as possible. can buy that support renewable energy for about one-third of the 575,000 U.S. EWG’s “Skin Deep” cosmetics database projects that will offset your carbon cancer deaths each year. flags particularly worrisome products and The Natural Resources Defense Council emissions. green-lights others that are healthy. (NRDC), a leading green group, has But smoking and obesity are obvious and proposed a five-step plan for Americans to follow to cut greenhouse gas But perhaps the most important tool we other cancer triggers aren’t so easily Another cancer prevention tip is to seal have as individuals for battling global pinpointed. In 2010 the President’s wooden outdoor decks and playsets— emissions by 80 percent by mid-century. Step One is to cut global warming warming is our voice. “Send a message to Cancer Panel reported that environmental those made before 2005 likely contain your elected officials, letting them know pollution via “strong legislation that caps toxins play a significant and under- lumber “pressure-treated” with that you will hold them accountable for carbon emissions and makes polluters recognized role in many cancers, causing carcinogenic arsenic in order to stave off what they do—or fail to do—about global pay for the global warming gases they “grievous harm” to untold numbers of insect infestations. Of course, avoiding warming,” instructs NRDC. On the group’s produce.” Step Two involves investing Americans. And EWG reports that U.S. too much sun exposure—and wearing website you can customize a letter to more in green jobs and clean energy. children are born “pre-polluted” with up to high-SPF sunscreen—when using those President Obama urging him to finalize a Producing more fuel efficient cars 200 carcinogenic substances already in decks and playsets is another important carbon pollution standard for new power their bloodstreams. way to hedge one’s bets against cancer. constitutes Step Three. Creating green plants, and direct the Environmental CONTACTS: EWG, www.ewg.org; homes and buildings is Step Four. Step Protection Agency to set tough new Given this shocking fact, it may seem President’s Cancer Panel, Five: Build more sustainable communities standards for existing plants. futile to try to reduce our bodies’ chemical http://deainfo.nci.nih.gov/advisory/pcp. and transportation networks. burden, but it could be a matter of life and EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Environmentalists are optimistic that death. EWG lists several ways anyone Scheer and Doug Moss and is a Individuals need to play a role, too, by President Obama will take strong action to can cut their cancer risk. First up is to filter registered trademark of E - The altering our behaviors to reduce our fight global warming during his second our tap water, which can include arsenic, Environmental Magazine individual carbon footprints. NRDC has term. But even if he convinces Congress to chromium and harmful chemicals. Simple (www.emagazine.com). Send questions several suggestions along these lines as pass binding legislation limiting carbon well. Walking, biking or using public transit carbon filters or pitchers can reduce to: [email protected]. outputs, each of us will continue to play an instead of driving is one. If you must drive, contaminants, while more costly reverse Subscribe: important role through how we lead our make sure for best gas mileage that your osmosis filters can filter out arsenic or www.emagazine.com/subscribe. Free own day-to-day lives. car is tuned and your tires are properly chromium. Trial Issue: www.emagazine.com/trial. inflated. If in need of a new car, look into a CONTACTS: NRDC, www.nrdc.org hybrid or electric that consumes less or no The foods we choose also play a role in EarthTalk® gasoline. whether or not we get cancer. Eating lots E - The Environmental Magazine EarthTalk® is written and edited by Roddy Scheer and Doug Moss and is a registered of fruits and vegetables is healthy, but not On the home front, weatherization can go a if they are laden with pesticides. Going Dear EarthTalk: What would you say are trademark of E - The Environmental long way to lower heating and air Magazine (www.emagazine.com). organic when possible is the best way to the most important steps we need to take conditioning needs, thus saving significant reduce pesticide exposure. And when as a nation to counter the impacts of amounts of energy. Also, upgrading old organic foods aren’t available, stick with climate change? appliances to more energy efficient models produce least likely to contain pesticides -- Ned Parkinson, Chino, CA (check out EWG’s “Clean 15” list of conventional crops containing little if any Americans care more about the pesticide residue). EWG also suggests environment than ever before and the cutting down on high-fat meats and dairy overwhelming majority of us products: “Long-lasting cancer-causing acknowledges that climate change is real pollutants like dioxins and PCBs and human-induced. But still we continue accumulate in the food chain and to consume many more resources per concentrate in animal fat.” capita than any other nation and refuse to take strong policy action to stave off Eliminating stain- and grease-proofing global warming—even though we have chemicals (Teflon, Scotchgard, etc.) is the power to do so. another way to cut cancer risks. “To avoid them,” says EWG, “skip greasy packaged Reducing greenhouse gas emissions can foods and say no to optional stain be achieved in a top down manner—via treatments in the home.” And steer clear legislation mandating reductions in fossil Kalman Samuels, Q.C. & Associates, s.e.n.c. Attorneys

Stella Samuels • Family Law • Litigation • Immigration www.kalmansamuels.com Tel. : 514-939-1200

www.filipinostar.org 8 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 PRESS RELEASES « La Cour suprême du Canada a Hon. Peter MacKay décidé de ne pas entendre l’appel de Guy Turcotte. Puisque cette affaire se Ministre de la Justice et procureur Alexander Concludes trouve maintenant devant la Cour général du Canada supérieure du Québec, nous ne ferons aucun autre commentaire sur ce cas Visit to China spécifique. En ce qui a trait à la John Papadimas March 24, 2014—Ottawa —Canada’s admissions. détermination des peines pour les Citizenship and Immigration Minister • More than 1.5 million Canadians personnes reconnues coupables de Conseiller Régional, Communications Chris Alexander has concluded a can trace their ancestral roots to China. meurtre, notre gouvernement a | Regional Communications Advisor successful visit to China during which apporté des changements he highlighted the many opportunities Quote considérables en vue de renforcer le Cabinetdu Premier Ministre | Office of that exist in Canada for Chinese skilled système de justice du Canada. Depuis the Prime Minister workers, travellers, businesspeople “Canada is a welcoming place for plus de 40 ans, notre système de and students. Chinese visitors and students, and our justice pénale allait dans la mauvaise [email protected] permanent economic immigration direction en se concentrant davantage Alexander visited Hong Kong and programs offer many options for those sur les droits des criminels que sur 400, Place d'Youville. Bur : 601 Shanghai to position Canada as a looking to make Canada their home. ceux des victimes. Nous nous sommes Montréal (QC) H2Y 3N4 destination of choice for leisure travel, This trip provided our government with engagés à changer les choses, et nous business and study. He highlighted the the opportunity to highlight the various l’avons fait. Nous avons mis fin aux Tél. 514-451-0065 | many pathways to Canada for aspiring opportunities that exist within Canada peines à rabais en cas de meurtres Télécopieur/Facsimile 514-496-1621 permanent residents, reiterated the and reinforce the strong ties between multiples, et nous avons abrogé la soi- Government of Canada’s commitment our two countries." disant « clause de la dernière chance », to doubling the intake of international qui permettait aux meurtriers d’obtenir Thank you for students, and promoted the active Chris Alexander, Canada’s Citizenship une libération conditionnelle anticipée. recruitment model known as the and Immigration Minister Notre gouvernement défend les watching our TV "Expression of Interest" (EOI) system. victimes d’actes criminels et leurs show every The EOI will result in faster visa Statement from the Honourable Peter familles en veillant à ce que les processing for newcomers who have MacKay Minister of Justice - criminels se voient imposer des peines Friday at the skills and attributes that Canadian Déclaration de l'honorable Peter qui correspondent à la gravité de leurs employers need, in the event that MacKay ministre de la justice crimes. Notre gouvernement 7 P.M. on Canadians cannot fill available jobs. Inbox poursuivra ses efforts en vue de faire x adopter d’importantes mesures Videotron In Hong Kong, Alexander met with Papadimas, John législatives visant à renforcer nos lois government officials for the Hong Kong et à rendre nos rues et nos collectivités Channel 16/616 Special Administrative Region, as well Mar 20 (8 days ago) plus sûres. » as with business leaders—particularly HD and Bell Fibe those involved in research and to John development, venture capitalism and 216/1216 HD angel investing. The Minister reiterated STATEMENT Canada's intention in Economic Action Plan 2014 to replace the Immigrant Investor Program with new pilot “The Supreme Court of Canada has programs. decided not to hear the appeal from Guy Turcotte. As this case is now While in Shanghai, Alexander met with before the Quebec Superior Court, we the Canadian Chamber of Commerce have no further comment on this and spoke at numerous events related specific case. With respect to the to international education to sentencing for convicted murderers, underscore China’s position as one of our Government has made significant the top source countries for students changes to strengthen Canada’s coming to Canada. justice system. For over 40 years, our criminal justice system was going in The Minister also attended the public the wrong direction focussing more on funeral service of Bishop Joseph Fan the rights of criminals instead of the Zhongliang, who devoted his life to his rights of victims. We committed to faith. Canada will continue to work with change things and we have delivered. faith groups in China to advance We have ended sentence discounts for freedom of religion and belief. multiple murders and we have repealed the so-called faint hope clause, which allowed for early parole Quick facts for murderers. Our Government is standing up for victims of crime and • Canada has signed an Approved their families by making sure that Need Money? Destination Status—or ADS— criminals receive sentences that reflect agreement with China. This allows the severity of their crimes. Our Chinese travel agents to promote and Government will continue our efforts to arrange tour groups to Canada. More pass important legislation to toughen than 31,000 such applications were our laws and make our streets and received in Beijing and Shanghai last communities safer.” year. Processing times averaged less • No Credit Checks! than one week and the approval rate was 96 percent. Hon. Peter MacKay • No upfront fees! • As of December 2013, China was Minister of Justice and Attorney the second-highest source country for General of Canada the Canadian Experience Class with • Immediate response! 1,127 admissions, the third-highest source country for the Provincial DÉCLARATION Call and Get Cash Now!!! Nominee Program with 4,047 admissions and the fourth-highest for (514) 344-1499 Federal Skilled Workers with 3,754

www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 9

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Affordable to start in a group set up, then consider private lessons when you feel comfortable and convinced of the value of dancing as a skill, just like other skills that will make you a better person.

Supervised practices - Fridays - 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. Beginners group lessons - Mondays to Wednesdays 7:00-8:00 PM Fridays - 7:00 - 8:00 P.M. Cost - $150.00 / 10 Lessons are taught by professional dance instructors in a dance school in the neighborhood. No partner necessary

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www.filipinostar.org 10 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 covered previously on this site and is the one to the left can be quite effective important in fireworks shots also. As also. They enable you to really fill the Ask the you get your camera on your tripod frame with great color. Keep in mind make sure it’s however that cropping of your level right from the time you set up. wider angle fireworks shots can always Video Guy be done later to get a similar impact in • Vertical or Horizontal? – There are your photography. by two main ways of framing shots in all types of photography, vertically 5. Aperture (portrait) or horizontally (landscape). A common question around Both can work in fireworks photographing fireworks displays is Al Abdon photography but I personally find a what aperture to use. Many people vertical perspective is better – think particularly as there is a lot of vertical you need a fast lens to get them but in motion in reality it’s quite the opposite as the TIPS ON FIREWORKS PHOTOGRAPHY fireworks. Horizontal shots can work if light that the fireworks emit is quite Capturing fireworks displays is of photographing fireworks is working you’re going for more of a landscape bright. I find that apertures in the mid to very common to those who have SLR out where to aim your camera. The shot with a wider focal length of if small range tend to work reasonably camera with basic controls such as challenge you’ll face in doing this is you’re wanting to capture multiple well and would usually shoot shutter speed and aperture. But there that you generally need to aim your bursts of fireworks in the one shot – but somewhere between f/8 to f/16. are more to these than the controlling camera before the fireworks that you’ll I don’t tend to go there that often. the light intake. Gears and vantage be photographing goes off – 6. Shutter Speed point play a lot too. anticipation is key. Here are a few • Remember your framing – I find that Probably more important to get right . I love to take photos of the points on getting your framing right. when I photograph fireworks that I than aperture is shutter speed. Annual Fireworks competition at La • Scope out the location early – spend less time looking in my Fireworks move and as a result the Ronde St. Helene Island of Montreal Planning is important with fireworks viewfinder and more looking at the sky best photographs of them capture this because each country participating and getting to the location early in directly. As a result it’s important to movement meaning you need a nice shows different amazing style. Canada order to get a good, unobstructed remember what framing you have and long exposure. The technique that I Day is one of those events that you position is important. Think about what to watch that segment of the sky. Doing developed when I first hotographed don’t need to go far. Most of the cities is in the foreground and background of this will also help you to anticipate the fireworks was to shoot in ‘bulb’ mode. have their own event and end up with your shots and make sure you won’t right time for a shot as you’ll see the This is a mode that allows you to keep firework display. Here are the basic have people’s heads bobbing light trails of unexploded rockets the shutter open for as long as you things to consider: up into your shots (also consider what shooting into the sky. hold down the shutter (preferably 1. Use a Tripod impact you’ll have on others around using a remote shutter release of some Perhaps the most important tip you also). Take note of where 4. Focal Length?One of the hardest type). Using this technique you hit the is to secure your digital camera to fireworks are being set up and what parts of photographing fireworks is shutter as the firework is about to something that will ensure it doesn’t parts of the sky they are likely to be having your camera trained on the right explode and hold it down until it’s move during the taking of your shots. shot into – you might also want to try part of the sky at the right time. This is finished exploding (generally a few This is especially important in to ask some of those setting up the especially difficult if you’re shooting seconds). You can also experiment photographing fireworks simply display for a little nformation on what with a longer focal length and are with set shutter speeds to see what because you’ll be using longer shutter they are planning. Also consider what trying to take more tightly cropped impact it will have but I find that unless speeds which will not only capture the focal lengths you might want to use shots. I generally shoot at a wider focal you’re holding the shutter open for very movement of the fireworks but any and choose ppropriate lenses at this length than a tight one but during a long exposures that the bulb technique movement of the camera itself time (rather than in the middle of the show will try a few tighter shots (I works pretty well. Don’t keep your 2. Remote Release show). usually use a zoom lens to give me this One way to ensure your option) to see if I can get lucky with See Page 21 Ask the Video Guy camera is completely still during • Watch your Horizons - One thing them. Of course zoomed in shots like fireworks shots is to invest in a remote that you should always consider when release device. These will vary from lining up fireworks shots is whether RESTAURANT camera to camera but most have some your camera is even or straight in it’s LA MAISON NEW KUM MON sort of accessory made for them. The framing. This is especially important if other way of taking shots without you’re going to shooting with a wide 6565 Côte-des-Neiges Road 5047 Henri Bourassa Est touching your camera is to use the self focal length and will get other (near Corner Appleton) Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 timer. background elements in your Montreal, QC Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 3. Framing Your Shot shots (ie a cityscape). Keeping One of the most difficult parts horizons straight is something we Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese Stuffed Bean Curd with Ecole de Conduite Shrimps Broccoli Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Salt and Pepper Cuttle Fish Steamed Rice Fried Sea Bass Fish ECHO $45.95 Steamed Rice $68.95 Certified by Driving School 4 persons 4 persons Bean Curd Soup 5871 Victoria, #219 Fish maw seafood soup 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Montreal H3W 2R7 Shrimp Cake with Chinese Seafood with Eggplant 514-731-8757 /514-961-0591 Broccoli in Hot Pot [email protected] Sweet and Sour Pork Stuffed Bean Curd with Seafood with Bean Curd in Shrimp $699 tax included Hot Pot Seafood with Chinese broccoli Salt and Pepper Squid Fried Sea Bass Fish More discounts for two or more persons who House Fried Rice register together.!! Fried Sea Bass Fish $75.95 Special Fried Noodles $145.95 •New Program (RSEP) 24 hrs theory •Free & Fast Road Test Steamed Rice 6 persons 10 persons & 15 hrs practical driving booking appointment •Payment plan for new program •Have Filipino instructor •Instructors w/more than 10 yrs FREE DELIVERY •Practical Driving Package 514-733-6029 experience certified by AQTr Minimum order of $10 We emphasize quality of service and students’ satisfaction. Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 11 Naku!!! Marami ang naligaw at Pichu: Naiintindihan ko po, Tito Aaron. hindi nakarating sa Open House na Kaya, pahahatid na lang ako sa Lolo ko ginanap ng NEI noong Enero 30, 2014 at doon ako matutulog sa inyo. dahil sa kalabuan ng direksyon kung paano puntahan ang nasabing * * * * paaralan. Huwag sanang mapipikon Ang pagtamo ng tagumpay ni ang kasama kong manunulat sa Rose Fontanes sa X Factor ng Israel ay Consular outreach mission Walang dapat tuligsain. uumapaw na karangalang dulot ni Walang nang dapat tanungin. MICHAEL CHRISTIAN MARTINEZ sa Pahayag ng Pasuguan, hindi raw dapat kanyang paglahok sa Winter Olympics gawing political issue. sa Sochi. Ang sarili kong parangal Para makatiyak kung saan ang kina Michael at Rose ay ang matagal susunod at kung kailan ay magpunta ko nang gustong ilathala sa aking pitak sa kanilang website. Ang walang para sa kaalaman ng lahat. Ang internet aybahala nang gumawa ng Pambansang Awit ng Pilipinas ibang paraan para makibalita. (Philippine National Anthem)

Agam-agam. . .Kupit Dito at Kupit Bayang magiliw Doon Perlas ng Silanganan Siya ang bumili ng mga Alab ng puso ingredients.. Siya ang nag-bake. Siya Sa dibdib mo'y buhay ang nagtinda.. At ang mga natira ay siya rin ang bumili.sinama ang Lupang hinirang pinagbilhan sa ambagan ng buong Duyan ka ng magiting Sa manlulupig Mountainside United Church na Kaliwa-pakanan: Edith Fedalizo, Elizabeth Santiago, Amelia Manon-og, Samson Kuk, Zenaida umabot sa halagang $4,165 na Di ka pasisiil Ferry Kharroubi, Benjamin Dimaapi, Jr., Josefina Toledo at Judith Gonzales. pinagkatiwalang ipadala ng Gawad Sa dagat at bundok Kalinga sa mga biktima ng bagyong Filipino Star dahil ang aming lalong naging matamis nang ang Sa simoy at sa langit mong bughaw; Haiyan. Mabilis itong tinapatan ng editor/publisher ay nakarating. Interior Minister ng Israel, Kgg. Gideon May dilag ang tula ganoon ding halaga ng Pamahalaan Sa'ar ay bigyan si "Osang" ng singing At awit sa paglayang minamahal. ng Canada. * * * * * permit. Iyan ang tunay na musika sa Sistema ni Pichu pandinig ng nagwagi sa timpalak. * * * * * Ang kislap ng watawat mo'y Tagumpay na nagniningning, Ang pagtatamo ng tagumpay Pichu: Tito Aaron, dalhin mo naman si * * * * * Ang bituin at araw niya ni Rose Fontanes sa X Factor ng Israel Tito Jonah sa amin para makapaglaro Kailan pa ma'y di magdidilim. ay lalong naging matamis nang ang kami. Interior Minister ng Israel, Kgg. Gideon Advertise your business on Mabuhay Lupa ng araw, ng luwalhati't pagsinta, Montreal TV, and in the North Sa'ar ay bigyan si "Osang" ng singing Tito Aaron: Ay naku! Tiyak na Buhay ay langit sa piling mo; American Filipino Star permit. Iyan ang tunay na musika sa gagabihin kami dahil nandiyan sina pandinig ng nagwagi sa timpalak. Pechay at Peras at alam ko na kung Call 514-485-7861 Aming ligaya na pag may mang-aapi gaano kayo katagal maglaro. Sa ibang Ang mamatay ng dahil sa iyo. for details, or log on to: * * * * * araw na lang. Wala na akong maisip na www.mmtv.ca dapat isulat pa tungkol sa nag- * * * * *

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 Since December 2013, Mabuhay Montreal TV, designed to serve the Filipino-Canadian community, has been receiving positive reviews.

Thank you for watching our weekly TV show on Videotron Channel 16/616HD, Bell Fibe 216/1216 HD every Friday at 7 p.m. on ICI (Internatinal Channel/Canal International) You are cordially invited to join Gilmore College’s annual sugaring off on Saturday, April 26, 2014 Departure: 9:30 a.m. Return to Montreal by 3:30 P.M. Destination: La Goudrelle, Mt. St. Gregoire Donation: $35 (Adults), $25 (below 12) covers bus and brunch buffet Reserve now by calling 514-485-7861

www.filipinostar.org 13 March 2014 The North American Filipino Star

If you can read, you can also learn how to write. Register now! Call 514-485-7861 The Best Writing Workshop is: • interactive • practical • insightful • authentic • multi-cultural • rewarding • stimullating • inspiring • exciting • memorable This workshop will help you develop a personal perspective that is important in discovering your hidden or latent abilities

Who is the workshop for? • open to all who write • anyone who needs to develop and use writing skills • professional writers, managers, novelists, business leaders, poets, lawyers, editors, professors, journalists, public speakers and anyone who needs to broaden their communication skills.

This is a breakthrough idea. The writing workshop experience plants a seed that grows each time you write, long after the weekend workshop has concluded. You will gain special insights that open your creative self as you continue to write. You will be able to set and achieve personal goals to: • learn new and useful methods of solving problems in writing • increase your power to know what you want to say Professor Isaac Goodine • increase your ability to put across persuasively what you have to say • enable you to see the actual relationship you have with your readers International Educator, Author of Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi, Editor & Publisher, The North American the book “Leaders Leading SEMINAR FEES: $495 (including taxes and materials) Filipino Star DURATION: 2 1/2 days - Friday evening, Saturday & Sunday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Leaders”, has delivered many Director-General, Gilmore College Schedule: To be announced to registered participants workshops around the world. International Exec. Producer, Mabuhay Montreal TV 14 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 Russie concernant le projet de loi sur la Crimée

Le 11 mars 2014 - Le ministre des Affaires étrangères John Baird a fait aujourd’hui la déclaration suivante :

« Le Canada, tout comme ses partenaires du G-7, est vivement préoccupé par les informations selon lesquelles la Russie s’apprête à aller de l’avant avec le projet de loi visant à annexer la région ukrainienne de la Crimée à la Fédération de Russie. La Russie semble préparer le terrain pour une annexion illégale pure et simple de la Crimée.

« L’invasion de l’Ukraine par la Russie constitue une violation flagrante de la souveraineté et de l’intégrité territoriale de l’Ukraine ainsi que du droit international. Comme l’a indiqué le premier ministre Stephen Harper la semaine dernière, le Canada et ses partenaires ne reconnaîtront pas la légitimité du référendum prévu le 16 mars dans une région sous occupation militaire illégale, pas plus qu’ils ne reconnaîtront toute proposition législative de Moscou destinée à le légitimer.

« Si les législateurs russes vont de l’avant avec le projet de loi d’annexion actuellement à l’étude à la Douma, ils ne feront qu’isoler davantage leur pays.

« Nous demeurons extrêmement préoccupés par la crise en cours et nous continuons d’exhorter la Russie à respecter la souveraineté et l’intégrité territoriale de l’Ukraine, y compris les obligations qu’elle a contractées en vertu du Mémorandum de Budapest de 1994. »

- 30 -

Pour de plus amples renseignements, les représentants des médias sont priés de communiquer avec :

Le Service des relations avec les médias Affaires étrangères, Commerce et Développement Canada 613-995-1874 [email protected] Suivez-nous sur Twitter : Canada Cautions Russia on Proposed territorial integrity and of international about the ongoing crisis and continue @MAECDCanada Crimea Legislation law. As Prime Minister Stephen Harper to call on Russia to respect Ukraine’s indicated last week, Canada and our sovereignty and territorial integrity, John Papadimas March 11, 2014 - Foreign Affairs partners will not recognize the including its 1994 Budapest Minister John Baird today issued the legitimacy of a referendum—planned Memorandum obligations.” Conseiller Régional, following statement: for March 16—held in a region under Communications | Regional illegal military occupation, nor will we - 30 - Communications Advisor “Canada, alongside our G-7 partners, consider as valid any corresponding is gravely concerned by news that legislative motion in Moscow designed For further information, media Cabinetdu Premier Ministre | Office Russia may be proceeding with draft to legitimize it. representatives may contact: of the Prime Minister legislation aimed at the absorption of Ukraine’s Crimea region into the “If Russia’s legislators move forward Media Relations Office [email protected] Russian Federation. Russia appears to with the annexation bill currently being Foreign Affairs, Trade and be preparing the ground for outright, considered by the Duma, they will only Development Canada 400, Place d'Youville. Bur : 601 illegal annexation of Crimea. contribute to their country’s growing 613-995-1874 Montréal (QC) H2Y 3N4 isolation. [email protected] Tél. 514-451-0065 | “Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is a clear Follow us on Twitter: @DFATDCanada Télécopieur/Facsimile 514-496- violation of Ukraine’s sovereignty and “We remain extremely concerned Le Canada sert un avertissement à la 1621 www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 15 Philippine Cuisine Ingredients: 1 med. Eggplant, cut in 1" slices 1 med. Ampalaya, cut in 1" slices 6 pieces red pepper cut in 1/2" and slices 6 pieces chili finger (sili) 1 cup coconut milk (first extract) Favorite Food 1 cup coconut milk (second extract) Compiled by Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi 4 cloves garlic minced 1 med. onion Chicken Adobo 1/2 to 3/4 kilogram pork, sliced small 1 tbsp Bagoong (alamang) or Ingredients Bicol Express (Vegetables with shrimp paste Serves: 8 2 tablespoons cooking oil coconut milk and spices) salt 355 ml (1 1/2 cups) soy sauce vetsin 355 ml (1 1/2 cups) water 180 ml (3/4 cup) vinegar 45 ml (3 tbsp) honey Cooking Procedure: 15 g (1 1/2 tbsp) minced garlic 3 bay leaves Sauté the garlic, onion, pork, 1 g (1/2 tsp) black pepper shrimp, and bagoong 1360 g (3lbs) skinless, boneless Add second extract of coconut milk chicken thighs and bring to a boil Simmer until pork is halfway Directions cooked Prep:15min › Cook:35min › Ready Add the vegetables (including the in:50min peppers and chili fingers) Add first extract of coconut milk and Preheat an outdoor grill for high bring to a boil heat, and lightly oil grate. Simmer until cooked In a large pot, mix soy sauce, water, Add salt, vetsin to desired taste vinegar, honey, garlic, bay leaves, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, and place the chicken into the pot. Hot Tip: Reduce heat, cover, and cook 35 to 40 minutes. I prefer freshly extracted coconut Remove chicken, drain on paper milk rather than processed-canned towels, and set aside. Discard bay coconut milk. leaves. Return the mixture to a boil, BUSINESS HOURS and cook until reduced to about 1 1/2 cups. Mon. Tue. Wed. 8:00 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Place chicken on the prepared grill, Thu. Fri. 8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. about 5 minutes on each side, until Saturday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. browned and crisp. Serve with the Sunday Closed remaining soy sauce mixture. Beef Picnic Ham w/bone Blade steak IGuinataan Chicken Adobo Pork loin Ingredients Approximately 79 Serves: 8 15 lbs .99 . 5 lb 2 lb 15 ml (1 tbsp) vegetable oil 49 Sweet Pusit 905 g (2 lbs) cubed pork meat . 4 cloves garlic, chopped 3 lb Boneless Pork shoulder - Bone-in shoulder chops $3,49 lb ngredients 1 (32 fluid ounce) container chicken Half or Whole pork 3.69 lb broth Cut & Wrapped Fresh Pork Leg Home smoked 1 kilo (2.2 pounds) small squid 60 ml (1/4 cup) dark soy sauce meat 99 2 cloves garlic 60 ml (1/4 cup) apple cider vinegar . 5 bay leaves 2 lb .99 2 chopped tomatoes 39 lb 9 lb 1 small sibuyas (sliced onion) 1 (14 ounce) can unsweetened 2. Beef coconut milk short ribs 5 dahon ng laurel (dried bay leaves) 15 g (2 tbsp) all-purpose flour 49 Regular smoked bacon 2 tablespoons toyo (soy sauce) . lb ¼ cup sukang puti (vinegar) Directions Fresh Pork Belly 6 ¾ cup water Prep:20min › Cook:1hr30min › with skin Ready in:1hr50min Ground Beef .99 2 tablespoons sugar 5 lb cooking oil Heat the oil in a Dutch oven over 79 salt and pepper medium heat, and cook the pork until . 69 evenly browned. 4 lb 4. lb Ground Pork Over 20 lbs 4.29 lb Special 2.89/lb Instructions Mix the garlic into the Dutch oven, and cook 1 minute, until tender. Pour Heat the cooking oil. in the chicken broth, soy sauce, and St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Add the garlic, onion, and tomato. cider vinegar. Place the bay leaves Frozen pork blood Napierville Cook it for 3 minutes. into the mixture. Bring to a boil. Fresh liver Sherrington Barrington Reduce heat to medium low, and cook Pork skin Add water, laurel, and soy sauce. 203 219 202 Lacolle Hemmingford Boil 1 hour, or until the pork is easily Jackso Sortie Havelock n Road Exit No.6 Add squid. Cook for 1 minute. shredded with a fork. (For a thicker Goat Canada Parc Class 15 consistency, blend a small amount of Available 219 Safari Add sugar and vinegar. Wait for it to Covey Hill Road boil. flour with coconut milk, chicken broth, on order Boucherie Viau Inc. U. S. A. Put salt and pepper. or water, then stir into sauce.) Make Malone Moders Champlain Serve with rice. sure the meat stays moist and covered with the liquid. If meat looks like it's 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 drying out, add a bit more chicken Tel.: (450) 247- 2130 or (450) 247- 3561 broth or water. Stir flour into coconut milk and add to the Dutch oven. Continue www.filipinostar.org cooking until heated through. 16 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 FILIPINO STAR S H O W B I Z G O S S I P

with the band instead of playing boss. Mesmerizing Mars moves Manila He not only allowed his musicians to do solos (that classical interlude by the keyboard player was breathtaking!), but also horsed around with them onstage like buddies without hierarchies. At the Premier Suites from where we watched the whole thing, they sounded like a unit versus the usual balance of voice above the other instruments. Even the main star’s costume was no different from the rest save that Bruno had safari hat on. The highlight number, of course, is the ballad “When I Was Your Man.” Backed by just the piano and organ

There was no need for costume worldwide (perhaps “next to Oprah stature or the so-called Pinoy pride to change, long-winded spiels, not even and the Queen,” haha)—and he make himself loved. Dude worked it. a bunch of dancers or acrobats knows it. If before, he might have Aside from performing his monster onstage, to make Fil-Am Bruno Mars’ been tentative in holding out the mic hits in full (except for “It Will Rain”), he “The Moonshine Jungle World Tour” whenever he wants people to sing a danced and played several one of the most arresting concerts this line or two from his songs, this time he instruments, too. At the latter part of Bruno Mars told the crowd: "Being season. All Billboard Artist of 2013 even put hand behind ear to better the show, Bruno played a mean drum Filipino, to see you all out there, you had to do was appear onstage hear the lusty response from every solo while the Filipino flag flashed don't know what that does to me." (though past 30 minutes after opening section of the venue. From onscreen. He moved like Michael act Poreotics made an impression) “Billionaire” (with cuss word intact) to Jackson at times (minus the crotch- for bed in some parts, the voice soared, reducing the audience to putty especially over the mawkish lines. We also enjoyed “Grenade” which actually has more drama when performed live, what with the driving beat and the explosions at choice points. “Marry You” and “Locked Out Of Heaven” were rambunctious romps that had many standing on their chairs, drowned in confetti in the latter part of the show. The doo-whoop number had got the more mature members of the audience thankful that they came, while “The Lazy Song” was anything but that given the lively reception it got. As for his reading of “Just The Way You Are,” Bruno’s very first hit and one of the final numbers, well, people just lost it—everyone was close to pulling out hair, knocking down chairs and screaming till nose bled. Had it been done on the streets, a van may have been overturned, no questions asked. It was temporary madness. and hit those notes to have Filipinos groovy “Treasure,” the Pinoys were, grabbing) and James Brown with his Before leaving, Bruno said he’ll raving. shall we say, on the money and Bruno frenetic footwork in another song. return “soon.” Held at Mall of Asia Arena over the banked on that. Bruno sang parts of some of his Till then, everyday it will rain. a weekend, the show presented by “Do you love me?” he teased the songs in higher note than heard on PLDT HOME Fibr was, for one, a study audience repeatedly at one point. record. Clearly, talent’s there and in confidence. Bruno returns to the Hell, yeah. there’s more to show. country as one of the biggest names However, Bruno did not rely on his It seems Bruno prefers working

www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 17 J.Lo likens Malaya to a young Michael Jackson Anne thought her Fil-Am singer Malaya Watson career over after once again busted out a stellar performance in the recent live show of bar controversy “American Idol 13.” The young contestant even earned a high compliment from one of the show’s judges. With this week’s theme being “I’m With The Band,” the nine remaining contestants performed as lead singers for music director Ricky Minor and his musicians. Watson opted to sing The Beatles’ 1970 ballad “The Long And Winding Road,” earning applause from an awed audience and the judges. Malaya Watson sings ‘The Long And Winding Road’ Wed Mar 26, 2014 Jennifer Lopez commended, “Your voice really stands out as above your personality comes through. That like yours and attitude that you have, Anne Curtis performance really showed me your you really can become something everybody else’s to me. Honestly, it When a bar incident involving several spirit. It’s beautiful.” great. Forget about stardom. All of sounds like the sweetness of a young local celebrities exploded and became Michael Jackson. It’s so beautiful. The ever-reserved Harry Connick, that will happen. Work on your craft. public, it naturally sent out shockwaves You’re 16 and you blow me away.” for his part, opted to give Watson a Nice job tonight.” across traditional and social media. Karl Urban was likewise floored, piece of advice. Along with Watson, other Being at the center of the controversy, saying, “Gosh, that was beautiful “I’ll give you the award of most remaining contenders who will face Anne Curtis naturally assumed her baby.” consistently improving. You really the elimination stage tomorrow are public image would suffer a major hit. He added, “You really chose a listen to what we say,” Connick said. C.J. Harris, Jena Irene Asciutto, Caleb In fact, she shared on ”Aquino & performance that shows us your “It was strong. Forget stardom; put Johnson, Jessica Meuse, Alex Abunda Tonight” on Monday, “Akala ko voice. I can feel your voice. Your that in your mind. Work on Preston, Dexter Roberts, Majesty wala na, end na ng career ko.” vibrato is so beautiful. That’s where harmonies. With the voice and ears Rose York, and Sam Woolf. a The “Dyesebel” star confessed, “Ang sakit ng regret. Ang laki ng regret,” but also noted it was a ”lesson US shows feature Filipino YouTube star learned.” Anne maintained, “At least, alam “Today” segment dubbed Advertisement:Replay Ad ko na kung anuman ang mali ang “Webstatic,” which spotlights videos Bustos, who first broke into the nagawa ko, I said sorry. I apologized that are trending in the Net. scene as a finalist on “Canadian Idol” right away and now I’m moving on to Bustos’ video was shown as well in 2003, is no stranger to cyberfame. be a better person.” in the rival show, “Good Morning His YouTube channel has become Another thing the incident taught America” on ABC, on Saturday. The very popular largely due to his her is knowing “kung ano ang US news website The Huffington Post comedic “Filipino tutorial” series, limitations ko if I go out,” she shared. found the video “mind-blowing which went viral in 2011. Although calling it a “low point [since] all sounds were produced Being featured in “Today” and talaga,” especially after how much exclusively by [his] mouth or voice.” “Good Morning America,” however, is publicity it had gotten, she was able to Bustos played 14 characters and particularly significant for Bustos, pick herself up thanks to the support of laid 36 vocal tracks for the video, “because it showed once again that her family and friends. including guitar and drum sounds. Filipinos live and breathe music and “Kumapit ako sa mga taong nasa “Some sounds are doubled, or art.” paligid who could be honest to me, combine one or more sounds,” who’d tell me the truth. Of course, the Bustos explained. “To achieve the Lord is the big factor kasi siya talaga same effect, you’ll need a choir of 36 ang nagbigay ng comfort (sa akin) people.” Pinoy details because, hindi mo talaga alam kung It took seven and a half hours to sino ba talaga ang totoo mong mga Bustos, who grew up in Canada, kaibigan unless your family is there. Of made sure to insert proudly Pinoy course my boyfriend is…” details in the video, which has scored Too old for “Dyesebel”? 234,285 hits since going online on With that behind her, Anne is back March 15. In it, he wears a salakot and in a big way, having now essayed the role of the iconic mermaid and brandishes a walis tambo and Dyesebel on TV. walis tingting. He said he wanted to Playing the popular Mars Ravelo remind Filipinos “that we are world character has its own share of players, recognized [around] the controversy,with some commenting globe as talented entertainers. The MIKEY Bustos laid 36 vocal tracks for that Anne, at 29, is too old for the role. world embraces us and our skills. viral vid. The actress-TV host revealed that They don’t see us as a race … they she initially agreed with her critics, Filipino-Canadian YouTube just hear good music.” which was what made her hesitate sensation Mikey Bustos’ latest video, The video is likewise meaningful accepting the part at first. Most Avicii’s “Wake Me Up,” was featured on a personal level, he noted, actresses who have played Dyesebels over the weekend in top-rating TV “SALAKOT” and “walis tambo” are because it showcases his vocal are “from what I shows in the United States. highlighted in the video. ability. “Music is my No. 1 passion, know, I think mga 21, 22, 23…. Bustos, who is currently based in even before comedy. I’m obsessed younger than me,” she noted. Manila and under contract with GMA record the song, another day to shoot with music and singing.” “Actually, kahit naman ako nu’ng 7, told the Inquirer that he “screamed and edit the video—all in all, three He described the exposure on in-offer sa akin then, tinanong ko, for a good 10 minutes” when he days “from start to finish, from mainstream US television as ‘hindi ba ako masyadong matanda?’ received an e-mail inquiry from planning to editing.” “wonderful.” Ang isinagot naman sa akin, ‘Hindi producers of the “Today” show, aired Blacc, the original singer and It’s just starting to sink in, he said, naman’. Bagay pa rin daw.” a on NBC. cowriter of the song, shared the video “[but] now that I have an even bigger Bustos’ a cappella rendition of on his fan page, Bustos related. “He audience, I am thinking of new Aloe Blacc’s song was shown twice, a said the video was great and made ideas.” More Showbiz Gossip on Friday and Saturday, in the him smile.” p.18 www.filipinostar.org 18 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.17 Dingdong Dantes earns college Jessica airs support for Malaya diploma During the commencement exercises, Dingdong was named WNU’s Ambassador of a Goodwill. The WNU President cited him for “promoting Wesnecan ideals and tenets of quality education through a potentially blended learning environment, therefore allowing for a greater diversification and greater access to learning…” Dingdong is the chair of Yes Pinoy Dingdong Dantes Foundation. It is public knowledge that he was among those who helped Our heartfelt congratulations go campaigned for P-Noy when he ran to Kapuso Primetime King Dingdong for President four years ago. Dantes for having finally graduated He was last seen via “Genesis” from college. where he was paired with Rhian The actor was among 800 Ramos. He was also the leading man students who received their college of Bea Alonzo in “She’s the One.” diplomas from West Negros Fans are stilling keeping their University (WNU) on Sunday. fingers crossed for another Dingdong (born Jose Sixto Dingdong-Marian team-up on TV or Raphael Gonzalez Dantes III) the big screen. graduated with a degree in Business Dingdong is now 34 years old, old Administration major in Marketing Jessica Sanchez enough to settle down. But as he said Management. in a past interview, he would certainly Fil-Mexican “American idol” Singing for Pacman The Kapuso contract artist admits think of getting married before he runner-up Jessica Sanchez is happy Sanchez will be singing the he was overwhelmed to finally receive turns 40. that half-Pinay Malaya Watson, 16, Philippine national anthem in Manny his college diploma. He worked hard By the way, another special and made it to the finals of “American Idol” for it, and it’s something very special Season 13. memorable experience for Dingdong to him, he said. “I hope she makes it really, really was his participation in the 28th It was very special for his far. I hope she does well. I haven’t anniversary commemoration of the girlfriend Marian Rivera as well, who been able to watch the show much but 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution dropped everything to be with him on I hear that she’s doing awesome. last month. He played the part of then his graduation day. Good luck to you. I’m here to support,” AFP Deputy Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Dingdong’s advocacy is Sanchez told ABS-CBNNews. Fidel V. Ramos in the re-enactment of education and so he strived hard to She gave the young Top 10 the famous “salubungan” or finish college, if only to inspire others encounter between military rebels to follow suit, guided by the fact that and civilians. no matter how busy one could be, he Does his college diploma signify Malaya Watson can accomplish things and reach his his intent to enter the political arena? dreams as long as he works hard for Pacquiao’s much-anticipated rematch Because at least he now has the it. with Timothy Bradley on April 12 in Las qualifications to run for a high elective Education is of utmost Vegas. post which is required if we are to importance to Dingdong because, as Singer Ashanti is to sing the US follow Senator Miriam Defensor he said, “it is something that no one national anthem. Santiago’s standards.” a For Sanchez, singing “Lupang can take away from you.” Hinirang” makes her feel like a “true Filipino.” Fil-Am gets lucky, wins big on “Every time I sing the Philippine national anthem, I just feel so proud. It ‘Wheel of Fortune’ makes me feel even more like a true buggy,” which proved to be the correct Filipino so I’m very proud to sing it for answer. the Manny Pacquiao fight again,” she The audience went crazy; with said. Sajak jokingly frisking the contestant to She is, of course, rooting for the check if he’s hiding anything. Jessica Sanchez with Ryzza Mae Dizon Pinoy champ. “I love Manny… this “(It’s the) most amazing solve in time I want to see him win.” my 30+ years on the show. No contender this piece of advice: “Just This will be the third time that kidding,” Sajak tweeted after the show. stay strong, don’t give up even if there Sanchez will be singing at a Pacquiao “What made last night’s solve amazing are haters out there.” fight. The first was when she sang the was the generic category. Could have The singer-actress said she hopes US anthem at the 2012 Pacquiao- Filipino-American nurse is now been ‘new anything.’ But ‘baby to meet with Watson soon. Bradley bout. $45,000 richer after having correctly buggy?!’ Wow!” The 18-year-old visited the country Last November 2013, Sanchez guessed the bonus round puzzle on Appearing on “The Ellen over the weekend for a singing sang both the “Lupang Hinirang” and American game show “Wheel of DeGeneres Show,” DeLeon explained engagement. She performed her “The Star-Spangled Banner” at the Fortune.” how he nailed the answer. single “Tonight,” on “Eat Bulaga!” Sarangani representative’s winning Emil DeLeon stunned viewers by “It’s pretty obvious (that) the first where she met child star Ryzza Mae fight against Brandon Rios in Macau. correctly guessing the item, which word was ‘new.’ Then, I worked on Dizon. Sanchez, whose mother hails from consists of three words, in three, four ‘baby.’ ‘New baby’ just sounds right, She posted a photo of them Bataan, intimated that she intends to and five letters. He only had the letters right? And (on) the hard part (buggy), I together on Twitter, saying, “Had the sing the “Lupang Hinirang” in the N and E as clues. worked with that ‘B’ again,” he shared. best time meeting this lil cutie traditional manner. “This looks tough to me… You’re a The Daly City-based Fil-Am said he @iRyzzaMaeDizon @EatBulaga She explained, “I think I did a very good puzzle solver, but I don’t and his family have been watching the today! She is the cutest!!” pretty good job last time. Everybody know. You have 10 seconds. Keep show since he was about three or four Ryzza Mae also took to Twitter to pretty much loved it last time. I got so talking. Maybe the right thing will pop years old. post a “selfie” with her “Ate Jessica.” many tweets. They want me to keep it out. Good luck,” TV host Pat Sajak told DeLeon boasted that, on his own, traditional and nice and simple like I the nervous contestant. he usually answers the puzzles right did last time. I don’t want to change it DeLeon then blurted, “new baby ”99 percent of the time.” a up too much. ”a www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 19 The charm & charity of Dingdong and Marian

Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera have chosen the higher road, and paying it forward seems to suit them both well Since Day One, the real-life ibang fulfillment ‘yun for me as a romance of Kapuso Network’s person, hindi bilang artista,” Marian primetime royalties — Primetime King shared. Dingdong Dantes and Queen Marian Through the support of her home Rivera — have been subjected to so network, GMA, Marian launched the many “tests.” But their relationship Kapuso Adopt-A-Bangka Project with proved to be too tough to be knocked GMA Regional TV, in partnership with down. the Bantayan Island Association of Their onscreen love affair on GMA Hotels, Resorts, Bars and Restaurants, 7’s top-rating primetime series Inc. The goal of the said campaign is to Marimar eventually veered into the donate sturdier bangka to fishermen in path of reality, spurring suspicious areas hit by Yolanda. observers in the showbiz industry to Marian said that replacing the speculate: “Are they a couple?” Before damaged boats of these fishermen will long, the two ended such speculations give them and their family a chance to and announced that they were, in fact, start life anew and sustain a living. real-life lovers already. “Hindi kami basta nagbigay lang And despite critics saying theirs is ng bangka,” explained Marian, a relationship that will not last, “Binibigyan namin sila ng idea, parang Dingdong and Marian are still very nag-aaral sila — ano ang dapat gawin much together for years now, proving sa pangingisda, what if walang their detractors wrong. Besides, a makuhang isda ngayon ano ang relationship lasting for more than five pwede nating gawin, ano ang years seems a lifetime already in pwedeng trabaho, ano ang pwedeng showbiz. substitute? Lahat may pag-aaral. Hindi In a recent interview, Marian ‘yung pagkabigay ng bangka, bahala shared that the real secret to her long- ka na sa buhay mo.” lasting relationship with Dingdong is Exactly a month after the “God.” According to Marian, placing campaign launch, it was able to fulfill God in the center of their relationship its commitment to give away 100 boats makes it more sturdy and able to resist as part of its first wave. “Nawala lahat temptations. ng pagod ko nang makita ko ‘yung The two also make sure that 100 families na binigyan namin ng despite their busy work schedules, bangka. Nakakataba ng puso na they still find time for each other, and nangyari ‘yung pinangarap naming they find joy in doing things together. mangyari,” she confessed. One of such activities is getting The said project also aims to help among others. supplies in a local elementary school. involved in charitable works. Moved by these fishermen sustain their living by Just last week, Dingdong and Dingdong also spearheads the the plight of the victims of Typhoon checking up on them after a certain Marian graced the Panagbenga Flower rebuilding of classrooms in Estancia, Yolanda, especially those who depend period of time. “Siguro within five Festival in Baguio City along with other Iloilo, where an entire school was on fishing to earn a living, Marian months, ano ba ang nangyari sa mga Kapuso stars and entertained their wiped out by Yolanda. recently started a campaign of her own taong binigyan naming — naka- fans via a series of shows in the “We were able to collect enough to raise funds to provide fishing survive ba sila, naka-ipon ba sila, country’s summer capital. Before funds para sa isang two-storey families in Cebu who lost their boats to nakatulong ba itong bangkang ito? meeting with their fans, Dingdong and building. Apparently, doon puro mga the typhoon a chance to get back on Hindi lang siya basta project lang, Marian dropped by Loakan Elementary single floor lahat e kaya madaling their feet and move on from the kumbaga nakatali kami sa buhay nila,” School in the city to donate school mawasak so talagang we plan to make disaster. explained Marian. supplies. it disaster-resilient,” he explained. “Ang hirap kasing ipaliwanag e, Dingdong, for his part, has been “I appreciate the effort of GMA Dingdong hopes to complete the hangga’t hindi mo nakikita ang mga very active in his own advocacies. In Regional TV. They’re really exerting project before the beginning of the taong nangangailangan ng tulong na 2009, Dingdong formed his own everything that they can to reach the next school year in June. nakikita mo lang through pictures, foundation, Yes! Pinoy Foundation, viewers. So maganda rin na naisip The couple has chosen the higher through interviews, hindi mo which has helped thousands of namin that everytime we go to a place, road and paying it forward seems to be masyadong ma-fe-feel e. Makikita mo, students in public schools and more we will tap one of the schools that are suiting them both well. Indeed, mararamdaman mo, pero pag recently, families in areas affected by very much in need of school supplies,” Dingdong and Marian’s way of nandoon ka, sila mismo recent calamities including Yolanda. said Dingdong. spreading love, especially to the less nagpapasalamat sa iyo at sinasabi The foundation has been involved in Prior to Baguio, the actor visited fortunate, only proves that when love is nilang ‘Naku Marian, salamat, various social development programs Iloilo during the Dinagyang Festival given away, it comes right back. a habambuhay hindi ka namin advocating for education, youth where he also distributed school makakalimutan,’ parang iba ‘yun, development and disaster response, www.filipinostar.org More Showbiz Gossip p.20 20 The North American Filipino Star March 2014 Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.19 Heart Evangelista to showcase her James Yap has 3 good art for the first time reasons to celebrate

Heart Evangelista and one of her paintings

Heart Evangelista will be having “I don’t know, they must be me,” James Yap gives girlfriend Michela Cazzola a loving kiss during an exclusive her first ever painting exhibit on May she told Manila Bulletin Lifestyle in an interview with Funfare 8 to 21 at the Artist Space, Ayala earlier interview. Museum in Makati. As to the patterns, she quipped, If James Yap is feeling light and In her Instagram, Kris thanked She already previewed some of ”…Sometimes I see them in my easy these days, it’s because he is in Judge Sulit, her lawyer Sig Fortun her works on Instagram, most of mind, I dream about them at night. a celebratory mood for three good and James’ lawyer Lorna Kapunan which depict melancholic-looking They drive me crazy. All these prints reasons: “for the patience and guidance to women, surrounded with a mixture of are from my head.” His team, San Mig Coffee Mixers, help James and I reach a long-term vibrant colors and patterns. The 29-year-old actress admitted beat Rain Or Shine in the PBA agreement regarding Bimby’s Impressed followers that her work usually comes out Philippine Cup championship even if custody/visitation…,” adding in commended the actress-singer for better when she’s painting sad. he was nursing an elbow injury; another entry, “At the end of the day, her effort: “When I’m happy, I don’t want to He and ex-wife Kris Aquino have as parents we want Bimby to grow made peace concerning their son up feeling loved and secure. James Bimby after a hearing at the Makati and I as a couple weren’t blessed Regional Trial Court, and James can with a happy ending but through now enjoy unrestricted visiting rights; God’s grace we have been given a and chance to have an ‘And they Lived he has a very beautiful girlfriend Happily Ever After…’” in the person of Michela Cazzola, an During the Skye affair, James and International Studies graduate in her his partners showcased Vespa and native Italy, who is working for the Aprilia by Mototechnik, and offered Asian Development Bank (ADB). special promos, plus a raffle of gift Last Friday night, James gave a certificates. He also welcomed thanksgiving party at the Skye sponsors Titan, Focal Speakers, Lounge in Bonifacio Global City, Outlast Battery, Standard Insurance, Taguig City, hosted by Mototechnik Insurance Experts Agency, Gadgets which he co-owns with partners in Style and Fabulous Autoworks. Jeffrey Yap, Andy Cheng and Renato James and several players are Alfante Jr. managed by Virtual Sports, Inc., the Before he and Michela showed biggest sports agency in the up at the venue, James spent time Philippines headed by president with Bimby, just the two of them, but Dondon Monteverde, chief executive did not (because he wasn’t officer Charlie Dy, and managing “The play and mix of colors are be still. I want to be out there. I want supposed to) bring the boy to the directors Edgar Tan and Paula Punla. great in such a way that the subject to see the world, but when I’m sad, party. Two Sundays ago, James and stands out despite the symmetry that’s when I don’t want to see “It was our most memorable Michela discussed their romance in chaos of shapes, shades and anybody, that’s when I want to hide. together after a few years,” said their first tell-all interview for The symbols. Great work! the piece itself It’s a good thing because I’m not a James. “Imagine, after a long time STAR. evokes deep emotions and inspires,” writer, I can’t write, I like to sing, but Bimby still remembers his favorite one commended. I’m not a singer, but I can paint. I game on my celfone and he kept Another one added, “Your work have these strong feelings coming looking for it. Unfortunately, it was in of art is made out of passion and full out of me in the form of images. the celfone that was lost. I think I’ll of love. Classy and so beautiful. You These are things you can’t say, give him a new one with his favorite are blessed with beauty, kind heart things you can’t show.” game in it.” and great hands. I am not a die hard For Heart, painting is some sort James, who turned 32 last Feb. fan of yours but seeing your work of personal therapy that helps 13, is thankful to Kris (said to have makes me wow and adore you.” release inner tension and extreme her own new boyfriend, a foreigner According to a report, Heart had emotions. whose identity she’s keeping been painting since she was about She wished, “If only life were like confidential) for her being in a good Asked how soon they are two or three years old. Her parents a painting, when you make a mood leading to the settlement of planning to settle down, James said, supported her passion by buying her mistake, you can just cover it up, their long-running (four-year) court “It will happen, pero enjoy muna painting kits and enrolling her in paint it over. There is no room for fear. battle, at the same time praising Kris kami together.” workshops. You’re the creator. It’s like you’re for being a good mother to Bimby Smiling, Michela (also a Catholic Heart is coy about identifying the God.” a (and Joshua whom James treats like like James) nodded, “Yes, in God’s women in her paintings, which all his own son) own time.” a bear the signature “LM” (her real name is Love Marie). March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 21 in manual exposure and manual focus Statement by the protect the public from high-risk From Page 10 Ask the Video Guy modes. Auto focusing in low light can be offenders, make public safety a very difficult for many cameras and you’ll Honourable Shelly paramount consideration for the shutter open too long. The temptation end up missing a lot of shots. Once your Glover, Minister Review Boards considering these is to think that because it’s dark that focusing is set you’ll find you don’t really cases, and will ensure that the safety of you can leave it open as long as you need to change it during the fireworks Responsible for victims is always considered when like. The problem with this is that display – especially if you’re using a small Manitoba - decisions are made about people fireworks are bright and it doesn’t take aperture which increases depth of field. February 28, 2014 - Canadians expect found Not Criminally Responsible. too much to over expose them, Keep in mind that changing focal lengths that their justice system will focus on especially if your shutter is open for will mean you need to need to adjust your focusing on most lenses. protecting the rights of victims and While the opposition continues to play multiple bursts in the one area of the safeguarding the public from high-risk politics on this issue, our Government sky. By all means experiment with 10. Experiment and Track Results individuals. is addressing the challenges of mental multiple burst shots – but most people Throughout the fireworks display illness in the criminal justice system, end up finding that the simpler one periodically check your results. I enerally The decision by the Manitoba as well as protecting and respecting burst shots can be best. will take a few shots at the start and do a government not to object to any of the the rights of victims and their families. quick check to see that they are OK before recommendations made to grant Vince The provincial decision to grant 7. ISO shooting any more. Don’t check after Mr. Li additonal freedoms, including Shooting at a low ISO is every shot once you’ve got things set up Li unescorted trips is wrong. unescorted trips into Selkirk is an insult preferable to ensure the cleanest OK (or you’ll miss the action) but do We call upon Manitoba's not only to the family of Tim McLean shots possible. Stick to ISO 100 and monitor yours shots occasionally to ensure you’re not taking a completely bad but to all law-abiding Manitobans. Attorney General Andrew Swan you should be fine. batch. Also experiment with taking shots Today, our Conservative Government is to appeal this decision that include a wider perspective, firmly calling on the province of 8. Switch off your Flash immediately. silhouettes and people around you Manitoba to immediately appeal this Shooting with a flash will Contacts (Media Only) watching the display. Having your camera insensitive decision. have no impact upon your shots pointed at the sky can get you some As a mother, a police officer and a except to trick your camera into wonderful shots but sometimes if you look member of the Government that is Jeremy Davis thinking it needs a short exposure for different perspectives you can get a focused on protecting public safety Special Assistant time. Keep in mind that your few shots that are a little less cliche and and the rights of victims, I would like to camera’s flash will only have a reach just as spectacular. Office of the Minister offer my sincere condolences to Carol of a few meters and in the case of Hope you find these techniques Responsible for Manitoba helpful and useful in taking good shots. de Delley and the entire family of Tim fireworks even if they were this close Remember practice makes perfect McLean during this difficult time. 204-983-7096 a flash wouldn’t really have anything shots. Our Conservative Government has [email protected] to light except for some smoke which Al Abdon introduced the Not Criminally would distract from the real action Hollywood Junkies Responsible Reform Act, which will (the flashing lights).Switch your flash (514) 264-8706 off. 9. Shoot in Manual Mode I find I get the best results when shooting MASSAGE CLINIC • Swedish • Thai Benz Cesario •Vietnamese •Balinese Massothérapeute agrée FQM • Foot Reflexology 2325 Centre st. suite 106 Montreal, QC H3K 1J6 Special for Spring Three 1-h sessions 514-576-8288 $115 only

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www.filipinostar.org March 2014 The North American Filipino Star 23 Hollywood celebrities talk about Manny producer sent me an e-mail with a family of Pacquiao. little film footage of Manny saying to Directed by Ryan Moore and Leon the camera, ‘Hello, Liam, I look Gast, Manny takes a look at the forward to meeting you,’ and I’m inspiring life story of Pacquiao who showing it to everybody,” Neeson rose from poverty to become a 10- shared with the TV host. “I haven’t met time boxing world champion, him… but he is a fantastic boxer.” congressman and international icon. Pacquiao himself has appeared Gast won an Oscar for Best on the Kimmel show several times, Documentary Feature (1996) for and Kimmel shared that he was also When We Were Kings a film about the interviewed for the documentary. classic match between Muhammad Another very vocal Pacquiao fan Ali and George Foreman which is Mark Wahlberg, who often visited happened in Kinshaha, Congo, in the eight-division champion at the 1974. Wild Card Gym in Los Angeles whenever Pacquiao trained there. Wahlberg even credited Pacquiao as his model when he portrayed retired boxer Mickey “Irish” Ward in the movie, The Fighter. “Every time he was training at Manny Pacquiao’s Hollywood fans include Liam Neeson (far left) Wild Card Gym, I watched him because my whole approach was, I Liam Neeson and Mark Wahlberg “What a boxer. He is one of the wanted to look like a Manny may be among the biggest names in greats,” the Irish actor said during his Pacquiao-caliber fighter. I didn’t want The film also features original Hollywood action movies, but when it most recent guesting at ABC’s Jimmy to look like another actor who’s doing music by composer Lorne Balfe comes to “real action stars” both Kimmel Live! an okay job,” he was quoted in one of (Inception, The Dark Knight, Iron Man, celebrities admit to being fans of Kimmel and Neeson then chatted his interviews. Sherlock Holmes) and songs by Filipino Boxing Champion Manny about co-starring together in Manny, Other personalities appearing in Yardnoise with Chad Hugo (The Pacquiao. which will be having its world the documentary include actor Neptunes/NERD). Neeson who narrates the premiere during the week-long South Jeremy Piven; boxers Oscar de la Manny opens on March 12 in documentary Manny says he has by Southwest Film Festival in Austin, Hoya and Evander Holyfield, singer Philippine theaters and will be been a fan of Pacquiao “for many, Texas on March 8. Dan Hill, respected sportswriters and distributed by Solar Entertainment many years.” “After I narrated (our) film, the boxing analysts as well as friends and Corp. a

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