Volume XXVI No. 12 December 2008 www.filipinostar.org Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year

Christmas lanterns (parol in Filipino language) hang in front of most houses and buildings in the Philippines during this time of the year. Misa de Gallo (Dec. 16-24) Filipino Christmas tradition. in the morning. Going to mass this After hearing Mass, Filipino Traditionally, Christmas Day in the These nine dawn Masses are early for nine consecutive days is families partake of traditional Philippines is ushered in by the nine- also considered as a Novena by the meant to show the churchgoer's Philippine Christmas delicacies, either day dawn masses that start on Catholic and Aglipayan faithfuls. This devotion to his faith and heighten during breakfast at home or December 16. Known as the Misa de refers to the Roman Catholic and anticipation for the Nativity of the Lord. immediately outside the church, where Gallo (Rooster's Mass) in the traditional Aglipayan practice of performing nine In traditional Filipino belief, however, they are sold. Vendors offer a wealth of Spanish, and these masses are also days of private or public devotion to completing the novena is also native delicacies, including bibingka more popularly known in Filipino as obtain special graces. supposed to mean that God would (rice flour and egg based cake, Simbang Gabi, or "Night Mass". The In some parishes, the grant the devotee's special wish or Simbang Gabi is the most important Simbang gabi begins as early as four favor. See Page 4 Philippine Christmas Be a Certified International Trade Professional (C.I.T.P.) Enroll in the Internatinal Trade Program Register by appointment at Gilmore International College First of 8 modules - Global Entrepreneurship Call 514-485-7861 to be given by Prof. Isaac Goodine International Educator & Author “Leaders Leading Leaders”

www.filipinostar.org 2 The North American Filipino Star December 2008

Marché Coop Filipino The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative EDITORIAL 4711 Van Horne Avenue Montreal, QC H3W 1H8 In spite of it all, it’s time to enjoy and Tel.: 514-733-8915 share our blessings with others E-Mail: [email protected] The economy is in a bad state, what we have done. Having been so Come and visit us for our and it is quite impossible to pretend preoccupied with our daily activities, that we are not worried about it. We are we may have forgotten to do something IN STORE SPECIALS apparently facing a recession - our for others. There are many ways by manufacturing industries which are the which we can make it up. We can give Gift baskets, gift certificates main engines of the economy, are to our favorite charity, to the church, or closing down. The auto industry, both to give something to a homeless available for all occasions. here and in the U.S. is in need of a bail person. We may also send a gift to a out but critics say that this may just be relative or to a friend whom we have not delaying the inevitable - people do not seen for a long time. Can you imagine buy cars as much as they used to. How what joy that brings to that person? will the auto industry recover from their There is no lack of inspirational big losses if people do not start buying stories during this time of year. One cars again? What is the best strategy only has to listen to the radio, watch TV, to stimulate the economy? Is it more read some magazines,newspapers, or spending by the government even if books, and even surf the internet and this will result in a big deficit? Where search for inspirational messages. This will be the best place to start? will certainly nourish our mind and soul, Lowering taxes, and interest rates are leading us to appreciate our considered to be the first measures to relationships with our loved ones.. The help the economy because they will insights we get from the quotes, allow people to have more disposable messages, poems and the like, will income but these are certainly not enhance our feeling of kinship with alll enough. Obviously, there is a need to humanity, deepen our faith and evaluate economic policies and see strengthen our character to cope with which must be revised, and which must any challenges we may face during our be adopted to produce the desired lifetime. results. To put ourselves into the mood The government has a big of celebration, we decorate our homes responsibility to lead us to economic and offices. The main motif is a recovery. As private citizens, we may Christmas tree that is decorated be inclined to stand by and watch what beautfilly and artistically. This is where happens next. But perhaps, we can we place our gifts to our friends and also take the initiative of pitching in by family. What a joy to behold when we way of using credit wisely. We may open those gifts on “Christmas also learn to take advantage of morning. Then we drink our eggnog economic opportunities. For those and have a Christmas breakfast who follow the trends more attentively, together. It’s a great pleasure to have they will probably figure out a way of this one day of the year when we can helping themselves. For example, be with our family, relax and have the those who have money to invest may time to talk to one another. start building their equity in real estate Another feature of the season or in good stocks, or open a small is preparing a Christmas dinner and business that answers the needs of sharing it with family and friends or people in a weak economy. neighbors. If we do not enjoy cooking, On the other hand, with the we can always go out to a nice holiday season in full swing, we should restaurant and save ourselves the still find the time to enjoy it for it only trouble of cleaning up the kitchen. comes once a year. We need to There is no doubt that rejuvenate ourselves and have the time Christmas is a very important occasion to reflect on our blessings and be not only for Christians but for all others inspired to look forward to the coming who are not. They also value the spirt We sell fresh vegetables weekly. year. It is often said that while there is of giving and sharing the beauty of the Order lechon for Saturday pick up but we need at least life, there is hope. Problems that come holiday season. We all become like up today have a way of being resolved children at this time of year for it allows a minimum order of 15 lbs by Thursday. over time. After all, necessity is the us to forget our worries even for one Call us at 514-733-8915 to place your orders. mother of invention. Solving problems day of the year. is a way of making sure we are Wish you all a very wonderful thinking, and developing a strong Christmas and a prosperous New Year character. May there be peace on earth and This holiday season is also a goodwill to all.. good time to take an accounting of Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi The North American Filipino Star SUBSCRIPTION 4950 Queen Mary Road Penthouse Tel.: 514-485-7861 (5th Floor) near Snowdon Metro E-Mail: [email protected] Montreal, QC H3W 1X3 Name ______Zenaida Ferry Kharroubi Hilda T. Veloso Jean Janete Aguilar Chief Editor & Publisher Address: ______Jerry Estrada Community News ______Lina V. Fernandez Sam Ferry Mary Joy Lizarondo Dr. Victor Gavino Assistant Editor Sports News Telephone: Residence: ______Office: ______News & Tourism Prof. Isaac Goodine Nida Verginom Butaran Subscribers can give a gift subscription at 1 year (12 issues) $20 Alvin D. Veloso Bert Abiera Sales Representative 10% discount. Contributors Founder Please use the same form and indicate it 2 years (24 issues) $35 is a gift subscription. Opinions, comments of writers and columnists do not necessarily reflect that of the management of Filcan Publications, Inc. www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 3 If the record can speak for 0419-06 - Amores, David itself for the month of December, we 0299-95 - Amper, Annabelle COOPERATIVE NEWS have only received four new members, 9491-96 - Andino, Fredo three of whom are fully paid, and the 0338-06 - Andres, Eugenia other one will be paying on installment. 0410-06 - Andres, Eugenia Making our plans to The following are our recently 0410-06 - Andres, Jacqueline recruited members this month: 0549-06 - Andre, Melania promote the Filipino Coop 0672-08 - Balansi, Rey L. 9558-06 - Antoni, Kavin We are about to sign a to volunteer during the weekdays, and 0673-08 - Del Rosario, Joyce 0315-06 - Antonio, Gemma 0674-08 - Nool, Marissa Hosana 0403-06 - Antonio, Macaria contract with the refrigeration 8 to volunteer during weekends and 0675-08 - Nunez, Marly Vega 0122-05 - Apuli, Josie ** company that will install the equipment statutory holidays. Our employee, Mrs. Del Rosario sent me a 0339-06 - Aquino, Joanne in the Filipino Coop. It took some time Rosa Basilan, works from 12:30 to 8:30 very comforting message, expressing 0149-05 - Aquino, John before we could get an affordable P.M. Monday to Friday, therefore we her trust in me. I wish to thank her for 0377-06 - Aquino, John Ryan price for the job to be done. We are need volunteers to be at the Coop this kind gesture. 0553-06 - Araza, Leonida looking forward to seeing the either during the morning or afternoon The balance of the list of 0162-05 - Arce. Alicia completion of this project in a week or or evening. On weekends, we also members during the year 2005-2006: 0080-05 - Arcillas, Edna two. need two people for each shift, one in continued from the previous month’s 0326-06 - Arevalo, Christopher When all the reorganization of the morning and one in the afternoon issue of the Star are the following: 0506-06 - Asuncion, Elizabeth the store is finished, we will plan a as we should open the store from 9 The balance of the list of fully 0462-06 - Aviles, Anecita publicity event where we will invite a.m. to 12:p.m., for one shift, and 12 paid members is as follows: 0385-06 - Axiabal, Elisa important people who may be p.m. to 6 p.m., for the second shift, and 0109-05 - Rojo, Maria Lourdes 0414-06 - Ayson, Ma. Elena interested in helping the Filipino Coop. 6 to 8 p.m. for the evening shift. At 0249-05 - Rosales, Lourdes 0175-05 - Azuelo, Elizabeth Perhaps, our fellow citizens and present, I am manning the store on 0455-06 - Rosario Del, Pocholo 0234-05 - Baccay, Fredeizminda compatriots will take notice of this Saturday from 12 to 8 p.m. but I 0204-05 - Rosello, Manuel 0451-06 - Bactol, Alberto occasion and begin to lend us their oftentimes I stay until 10 p.m. because 0205-05 - Rosello, Virginia 0135-05 - Bade, Carlito *** support as well. Besides, they will not of other things that I do like checking 0515-06 - Royo, Julius 9166-05 - Bade, Celerina have any more excuses when we fill up stock and prices, arranging displays, 0195-05 - Ruano, Julieta 0113-05 - Bade, Gerarda the store with everything they need etc. On Sundays, Magnolia Camat 0026-05 - Salinas, Eugene ______- Bade, Jocelyn *** including fresh meat and vegetables. usually opens the store at 1 p.m., but 0284-05 - Salvador, Elvira 0134-05 - Bade, Manuel We are also going to follow up sometimes it is only open at 2 p.m. 0293-05 - Salvador, Ruben 0137-05 - Bade, Marilou our members to submit their ID size Closing and opening times are not as 0436-06 - San Pedro, Merly 0133-05 - Bade, Mark Gil photos so that we can start using the regular as it should be. Oftentimes, I 0193-05 - Santos, Reuben 0168-05 - Bade, Rodolfo ID card system in keeping track of our hear people from the West Island tell 0496-06 - Sinoy, Maria 0142-05 - Bado, Evangeline members purchasing record. As it is me that they shop at other stores 0384-06 - Soriano, Elizabeth 0511-06 - Bajao, Ann Mercy part of the Cooperatives Act that we do because they are open when they 0507-06 - Subido, Merlyn 0544-06 - Balag-ey, Carolina business with our members, we have come. 0225-05 - Sumabat, Maria Victoria 0143-05 - Balagot, Neil Carlston to find ways of making this happen. It seems clear that the Filipino 0187-05 - Sy, Leonardo 0382-06 - Balani, Luz Why have we not yet succeeded in Coop must be regularly operated from 0188-05 - Sy, Montserrat 0057-05 - Baldelovar, Leah *** convincing most of our members to morning to evening, 7 days a week, 12 0220-05 - Tablan, Carmen 0191-05 - Baltazar, Corazon buy their groceries from the Coop? hours a day at least in order to cover its ______- Tabunar, Caridad 0421-06 - Baltazar, Jose Where do they shop for their Philippine overhead costs and have some profits 0360-05 - Tamonan, Generosa 0260-05 - Baltazar, Roderick food? to pay off its debts. I have advanced a 0418-06 - Teodosio, Jonalyn 0282-05 - Banawa, Rolando We would like to call our considerable amount of cash and 0046-05 - Timbreza, Pedro 0408-06 - Batres, Jose Ricardo members and ask them these guaranteed credit with the bank. I took 0546-06 - Toyota, Violeta 0244-05 - Bautista, Marites important questions - what will make the big risk to my own financial welfare 0123-05 - Tuvida, Noemi 0262-05 - Bautista, Merlita you buy from your own Cooperative? in order to keep the Coop open for as 0280-05 - Ullah, Esmat 0407-06 - Bautista, Roseville What are the things you buy from the long as it takes in order to achieve a 0152-05 - Verginiza, Somiso 0130-05 - Bautista, Chris other stores? If we carry these items dream - to unite our community and 0196-05 - Verginom, Nida 0079-05 - Belaro, Lilian they buy, what prices do they normally build a legacy for all future 0330-06 - Villalonga, Juditho 0397-06 - Belgar, Divina pay for them? Their answers to these generations. I believe that the ______- Villanueva, Magdalena 0308-05 - Belino, Lilian questions will help us make choices potential is there to achieve a certain 0182-05 - Villoso, Eden 0179-05 - Benedicto, Ma. Maxima what to sell and what prices to offer degree of economic power, if only we ______- Ward, David 0022-05 - Bermejo, Virgilio them. could all believe that we must support 0370-06 - Woolmer, Bonnie Rosales 0050-05 - Bernabe, Lydia We also think that the store one another. We have the numbers to 0223-05 - Zubieto, Darleen 0559-06 - Binala, Leonila must be opened longer hours once do this. It just does not make sense to The following list is our record 0138-05 - Bravo Bade, Alberto *** we have completed the refurbishing of throw your support to other of NOT FULLY paid members. On the 0136-05 - Bravo, Bade Marlon *** the store. As we do not have enough businesses whose only goal is to make other hand, if anyone listed below has 0155-05 - Brigaudit, Delia cash to hire people, we have to rely on more profits for themselves. They will fully paid, please present your receipt 0156-05 - Brigaudit, Ma. Rowena volunteerism. We are therefore never share them with you while in the so that we can correct our records: 0519-06 - Briones, Rosemarie soliciting members who are retired or Cooperative business, members are 0311-06 - Abad, Luz 0088-05 - Buenavista, Leila do not have a full time job. They will be the ones who will reap the benefits in 0291-05 - Abayon, Teresita 0302-05 -Bueno, Myra called to a meeting and give them the form of dividends from your stock 0320-06 - Abello, Simeona 0458-06 - Buiza, Nena some training on the operation of the and your patronage. Jerry Estrada has 0144-05 - Abrea, Luzviminda 0334-06 - Buloron, Chona cash register and the use of the bar been writing about the power of the 0523-06 - Aguilar, Susan 0400-06 - Bumanlag, Juvy code reader. We also need volunteers Cooperative movement since January 0433-06 - Alberto, Angelina 0106-05 - Bunda, Mercedes to code our products so that they can 2007, but sadly, the response from our 0512-06 - Alfaro, Lalaine 0552-06 - Cabahug, Medy be scanned easily at the cash register. community is not as good as it should 0541-06 - Allana, Cristita ** - Paluagan overpayment To give our members an idea be. How much longer do you all have 0246-05 - Alvarez, Cherry *** No record of amount of how many volunteers we need, we to wait before coming aboard the 9486096 - Amores, Daven (To be continued next issue) would like to have about 10 members Cooperative movement? a The North American Filipino Star December 2008 4 A Christmas Lunch usually shapes like stars, Christmas trees, Three Wise Men or Three Kings From Page 1 Philippine Christmas follows after the Pagmamano. The angels, and in a large variety of other (Tatlong Hari in Tagalog). Parols are to cooked using coals on top and under), lunch is heavily dependent upon the ways, even going as far as draping the Filipinos as Christmas trees are to puto bumbong (a purple sticky rice finances of the family. Rich families whole outside of the house in lights. Westerners- an iconic symbol of the delicacy which is steamed in bamboo tend to prepare grand and glorious Aside from Western decorations like holiday. tubes, with brown sugar and coconut feasts that consist of Jamon de Bola, Santa Claus, Christmas trees, tinsel, Belen shavings as condiments), salabat (hot Queso de Bola, Lechon and other etc, the Philippines has its own ways of Another traditional Filipino ginger tea) and tsokolate (thick Filipino delicacies. Some poor families showing that it is the holidays. Christmas symbol is the belen -- a Spanish cocoa). choose to cook simple meals, Parol creche or tableau representing the Christmas Eve nevertheless still special. When the Though not strictly a custom, Nativity scene. It depicts the infant For Filipinos, Christmas Eve family is settled after the lunch, the every Christmas season, Filipino Jesus Christ in the manger, on December 24 is the much- exchange of gifts is usually done. homes and buildings are adorned with surrounded by his parents, shepherds, anticipated Noche Buena -- the Godparents are expected to give gifts beautiful star lanterns, called parol their flock and the Magi Belens can be traditional Christmas Eve feast after the or Aguinaldo to their godchildren. (Span. farol, meaning lantern or lamp- seen in homes, churches, schools and midnight mass. Family members dine When nightime falls, members Merriam Webster Spanish- English even office buildings. The ones on together around 12 midnight on of the family usually take part in family English- Spanish Dictionary). The office buildings can be extravagant, traditional Noche Buena fare, which talks while listening to favorite earliest parols were traditionally made using different materials for the figures includes: queso de bola (Span. literally Christmas carols. Some may opt to from simple materials like bamboo and using Christmas lights, parols, and "ball of cheese"; edam cheese), have a glorious Christmas Feast for sticks, Japanese rice paper (known as painted background scenery. A "Tsokolate" (hot chocolate drink) and dinner. "papel de Hapon") or crepe paper, and notable outdoor belen in Metro Manila hamon (Christmas ham), and some Niños Inocentes a candle or coconut oil-lamp for is the one that used to be at the COD would open presents at this time. Niños Inocentes is illumination; although the present day building in Cubao, Quezon City. In In different provinces and commemorated on December 28 as parol can take many different shapes 2003, the belen was transferred to the schools throughout the Philippines, Holy Innocents' Day or Childermas in and forms. The parol is also Greenhills Shopping Center in San Catholic devotees also reenact the other countries. The innocents referred traditionally made of lacquered paper Juan when the COD building closed journey of Joseph and the pregnant to are the children who were and bamboo, but others are made of down. This belen is a lights and Blessed Virgin Mary in search of massacred by order of Herod, who cellophane, plastic, rope, capiz shell sounds presentation, the story being lodging for the soon-to-be born Jesus was seeking the death of the newborn Christ. This is the traditional Messiah. Panunuluyan, also called New Year's Eve (Dec. 31) Pananawagan and Pananapatan. On New Year's Eve ("Bisperas This street pageant is ng Bagong taon"), Filipino families performed after dark on Christmas gather for the Media Noche or midnight Eve, with the actors portraying Joseph meal – a feast that is also supposed to and Mary going to pre-designated symbolize their hopes for a prosperous houses. They chant wika wika bang New Year. In spite of the yearly ban on bang is god traditional songs which firecrackers, many Filipinos in the are meant to wake up the owner of the Philippines still see these as the house as they ask for lodging, but are traditional means to greet the New turned away by the owners, also in Year. The loud noises and sounds of song. Finally, Joseph and Mary make merrymaking are not only meant to their way to the parish church where a celebrate the coming of the New Year simulated manger has been set up. but are also supposed to drive away The birth of Jesus is celebrated at bad spirits. Safer methods of midnight with the Misa de Gallo, merrymaking include banging on pots together with hallelujahs and and pans and blowing on car horns. Christmas carols. Folk beliefs also include encouraging Christmas Day children to jump at the stroke of Christmas Day in The midnight so that they would grow up Typical sight during Christmas time when people go to church at dawn and then buy their Philippines is primarily a family affair. tall, displaying circular fruit and favorite snack after mass at a nearby vendorès stall. Prior to the ticking of 12 midnight on 25 wearing clothes with dots and other December, Misa de Aguinaldo is being circular designs to symbolize money, and a wide variety of materials. Making narrated over speakers set up and celebrated. It is usually attended by the eating twelve grapes at 12 midnight for parols is a folk craft, and most Filipino most probably using automatons to whole family. Misa de Aguinaldo is the good luck in the twelve months of the kids have tried their hand at making a make the figures move up and down, Holy Mass celebrated to signify the year, and opening windows and doors parol at one time or another, maybe as or turn, etc. Each year, the company Birth of Jesus Christ, the Roman during the first day of the New Year to a school project or otherwise. The owning it changes the theme, with Catholic Church and Philippine let in the good luck. most basic parol can be easily variations such as a fairground story, Independent Church (Aglipayan) in the Three Kings (First Sunday of the year) constructed with just ten bamboo and Santa Claus' journey. Construction Philippines' main means of celebrating Christmas officially ends on sticks, paper, and glue. These lanterns for this year's show started around Jesus Christ's birth. the Feast of the Three Kings (Tres represent the Star of Bethlehem that September 1. Misa de Aguinaldo is also Reyes or Tatlong Hari in Tagalog), also guided the Magi, also known as the Source: Wikipedia celebrated at dawn or in the morning known as the Feast of the Epiphany. immediately after sunrise before 10 The Feast of the Three Kings was AM, this schedule is preferred by traditionally commemorated on Jan. 6 Need Money? Filipinos who choose to celebrate but is now celebrated on the first Christmas Eve with a night-long Sunday after the New Year. Some celebration of Noche Buena. children leave their shoes out, so that Preferably in the morning, the Three Kings would leave behind Do you have a full time job? Filipino families visit members of the gifts like candy or money inside. Jan. 6 extended family, notably the elders in is also known in other countries as order to pay their respect. This custom Twelfth Night, and the "Twelve Days of If yes, call (514) 344-1499 has been an age-old tradition in the Christmas" referred to in the Christmas Philippines called Pagmamano, this is carol are the twelve days between done by touching one's forehead to the Christmas Day (December 25) and the elder's hand saying Mano Po. The coming of the Three Kings (January 6). AND GET CASH NOW! elder then blesses the person who Decorations paid respect. Aguinaldo or money in The Filipino Christmas would the form of crisp, fresh-from-the-bank not be complete without the traditional bills is given after the Pagmamano, Philippine Christmas symbols and most usually to younger children. decorations. Christmas lights are Good & Bad Credit Accepted Although traditional in the country, strung about in festoons, as the tail of some families no longer practice it. the[Star of Bethlehem in Belens, in

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 5 next day unless they earlier asked and the loan can wait while I enjoy the Holiday spirit were given leave to extend their holiday season, Filipino style. vacation. By Raul J. Palabrica Otherwise, the rest of the staff trek Tradition back to work so it’s not unusual for office buildings to be bursting with The length of our Christmas activity right after Christmas Day. celebration and the amount of effort put For Filipinos, however, Christmas is into it has been a source of amusement not only Dec. 25; it includes the and amazement by some foreigners. succeeding days up to New Year’s Day. For Asians who have their own For the hopelessly sentimental, that share of colorful traditional activities, sometimes extends to Jan. 6 or what the season, except for the motif, strikes used to be celebrated as Three Kings close to home. It’s no big deal. Day. Whenever I hear disparaging During that period, most Filipinos remarks from Westerners about the are in a celebratory (read: lazy) mood time and money “wasted” during this that will not tolerate interruption except period, I am quick to point out that for very good reasons. they’re small compared to what Unless it involves emergency work Europeans do in August every year. or a promise of extra benefits, any During that month, which is businessman who disrupts that state of summer by their standards, they go on partial hibernation by calling his vacation to every available beach or employees back to work risks getting resort in the continent. Business and their silent ire. government offices are practically on a Filipino boys play outside their makeshift store that sells Christmas lanterns in standstill. suburban Manila, Philippines on Sunday Dec. 14, 2008. Many Filipinos have now Workaholic It’s the worst time of the year to do decorated their homes with Christmas ornaments as they prepare for the holidays business in Europe because members I once worked on a loan agreement of the skeletal force that remains to put The crowds in the malls may be of the people who matter most in their involving a syndicate of banks based in a semblance of normalcy in operations leaner, the gifts less expensive and the lives. New York and Tokyo that required are either in a bad mood for being left prices of goods higher, but, global It will be business as usual, discussions up to close to the holidays. behind or have their minds elsewhere recession or not, Christmas remains however, for government personnel In the evening of Dec. 23, I sent an than their work. the happiest season for most Filipinos. tasked to maintain peace and order, or email to the banks, informing them of Despite the month-long break, This is the time of the year when keep vital public service facilities going my position on some items of the loan. however, the rest of the world has pessimists, skeptics and all kinds of while the rest of the nation enjoy the I ended my letter with a Christmas learned to accept and adjust to the people who find joy in making life holiday. greeting and told them I looked forward August habit of the Europeans. difficult for others take a breather and The same thing goes for to hearing from them, if possible, by During the celebration of the Lunar grudgingly go with the mood of the employees of private companies who Dec. 27. Year, life goes on a slow mode for at community. have to do maintenance work, close Boy, did I get a quick reply to my least two weeks in China and other With Dec. 25 and New Year’s Day the financial books or attend to email. The New York bankers said they countries with strong ethnic Chinese falling on a Thursday — in the process activities that can best be done when planned to work up to 4 p.m. on Dec. presence. “sandwiching” the succeeding Friday the offices are empty. 24, take a break on Christmas Day, and The cities are emptied of people between a holiday and a weekend — go back to work on the 26th. who, in keeping with tradition, go to an 11-day holiday is in the offing. Holiday feeling They even gave me their home their ancestral homes to visit their For those with relatives and friends numbers in case I wanted to talk to relatives. in the provinces or elsewhere who have In most business capitals of the them about the loan on Christmas Day! Neither industrialization nor no professional commitments to tie world, if Christmas Day and the Talk of workaholic or obsessive globalization has prevented the them down, it’s an opportunity to visit following day fall on working days, the compulsive people. Chinese and their ethnic relations in and rekindle ties. staff is usually given the day off on the With characteristic politeness, the other parts of Asia from observing this If there are financial constraints for 25th to enable them to celebrate it, Japanese bankers wrote that they will annual ritual. And the rest of the world such activities, the layover can be used depending on their personal beliefs. be available for discussions everyday has and continues to respect it. for rest and relaxation in the company But they have to report for work the until Dec. 30 when they break off for the Regardless of what others may say, yearend celebration. the Christmas season is ours to enjoy. Their response did not surprise me, after all Christmas is not part of their Happy Holidays! a culture or religion. DR. EMILIA ESPIRITU I replied “thanks but no thanks,”

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www.filipinostar.org December 2008 6 The North American Filipino Star hunt, log and grow crops. Their womenfolk wear native blouses, TOURISM "malong" skirts and accessories of brass bracelets and bead necklaces.Mandaya and Mansaka are DAVAOculturally related groups who are highly musical - playing the five string D E L S U R bamboo guitar, two-string lute, violin, Sprawled along the shores of flute, gong, drum and bamboo jew's Southeastern Mindanao, Davao del harp. They are also excellent Sur is a place of natural wonders and silversmiths crafting breastplates, rarities. It boasts of the country’s jewellery, daggers and knives. The highest peak, Mt. Apo, the most Mandayas are famous for their colorful prized Philippine orchid species like abaca fiber weaves embroidered with the Vanda Sanderiana, some of the tribal motifs. most exotic fruits, and the endangered In both groups, women generally Philippine Eagle. wear handwoven abaca tube skirts, embroidered blue cotton tops and The People heavy jewellery. Men sport wide blue or white fringed and embroidered Davao del Sur is home to a host of trousers and a loose shirt. Red is a Tudaya Falls, one of the highest in the country ethnic groups whose culture and way color only for a headman ("bagani") of life have been preserved. These are and for women of high status. the Bagobos, the Mandayas, the Bagobos live in an area that Mansakas, the Atas, the Kalagans, the extends from Davao del Sur and South Tagakaolos, and the Mangguangans. Cotabato to the foot of Mt. Apo and Their arts and crafts are on display in Davao City all the way to the land museums and shops. bordered by the Davao and Pulangi Ata people live in some areas of rivers and up to northern Cotobato Davao City all the way to Davao del and southeast Bukidnon. Numbering Norte and Bukidnon. They are related about 80,000, their traditional costume to the Manobos of Cotabato and is woven from abaca fiber and heavily include sub-groups such as the ornamented with beads, shells, metal Talaingod of the Kapalong forests in discs, embroidery and brightly-colored Davao del Norte and the Matigsalug. geometric applique. Though Bagobos Numbering about 222,000, Ata men have the most stunning costumes wear long-sleeved shirts, carry spears,

The Philippine Eagle is a giant forest raptor endemic to Mindanao. It is considered one of the largest and most powerful eagles in the world. Unfortunately, it is also one of the world's rarest and most critically endangered vertebrate species.

A Philippine Eagle with spectacular Mt Apo in the backdrop Scenes from the Kadayawan Festival Parade in Davao City, held in August each year . A dancer (Top left), is dressed up in traditional Bagobo.

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 7 among the Davao ethnic groups, they pronounced wet of dry season. and the wear them only on special occasions. province sits outside of the typhoon Like the Mandayas and Mansakas, belt. they shave their eyebrows to a thin Davao del Sur is an ethnic mix of line and file and blacken their teeth. Muslims, Visayans, Tagalogs, Chinese, Bagobo smiths cast little bells which Japanese and Spanish with a number are attached to pouches, bracelets, of indigenous tribes scattered in the jackets, anklets and inlaid metal central plains and the western shores boxes. of the Davao Gulf. The city of Davao Tagacaolos number about 23,000 has a population of 892,000 and occupy the area between the inhabitants spread across a vast land. western shores of the gulf and the Cebuano is the main language slopes of Mt. Apo. This is one of the although English and Pilipino are tribes which resisted Muslim widely spoken. B’laan, Bagobo, conversion and maintained a highland Manobo, Tagakaolo are the local tribe animistic culture. dialects. The Atas (numbering Kalagans are a Muslim group 220,000) and the Bagobos (around related to the Tagacaolos. Numbering 80,000 people) are the largest tribes. only about 7,000, they live along the The colorful artistic heritage of Davao shores of the Davao Gulf. stems from the rich culture of its tribes. Mangguangans are now only The Bagobos, for instance, are famous for their aesthetics in the meticulous 3,000. They can be found in Davao del carving of weapons; the elaborate Sur and Davao del Norte. decoration of inlaid metal boxes with bells; and the ornamentation of their Activities abaca fiber dress with embroidery, shells, beads and metal discs. There is a wide choice of white A fabulous time to witness the rich sand beaches and resorts. In the city, cultural heritage and arts of the local there are numerous hotels and inns. people is during the Kadayawan Dining is good and varied. Nightlife is Festival, held every third week of fun. August in Davao City. Kadayawan is Some of the popular sports the festival of festivals in Davao. activities are golf, watersports, and Showcasing are tribal inspired street mountain climbing. dancers and authentic Lumads Located in the southeastern corner (indigenous people). of the country's southernmost island of Davao Del Sur is also famous for : Mindanao, The province is composed -White-Sand Beaches of sandy beaches and outlying islands; Take your pick from the fine beaches in agricultural plains and valleys; Sta. Maria, Malita, Jose Abad Santos, rainforests; swamps; rolling hills and Sarangani, and Balut Island. mountains including the Philippines' -Tudaya Falls highest peak, Mt. Apo (3,144 meters). Located in Sta. Cruz, one of the Davao City, the premiere city of highest waterfalls in the country. Mindanao, is located in the -Cultural Tribal Villages northeastern part of the province, at -Crocodile Park the head of the gulf. In terms of land Probably the country’s richest in terms area, Davao City is the world's largest of biological diversity, Davao is now city (244,000 hectares). The mighty also known to be the habitat of Davao river runs through the city. crocodile Davao enjoys a mild, pleasant - The mountains of Mindanao also offer climate all year round, there is no Trekking around Mt. Apo one is rewarded with great views incredible trekking experiences. a

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 8 The North American Filipino Star Tagalog Classes in the South www.onemillionactsofgreen.com. This site as the campaign continues. where, and when Canadians want it. Shore represents a reduction of near Surpassing 500,000 acts is www.cbc.ca/thehour 25,000,000 kg of greenhouse gas. massive. Congratulations and A joint Filipino This campaign milestone has been appreciation goes all Canadians who The meaning of the 12 days of achieved far more quickly than we have taken the time and interest to Christmas Language & anticipated - in less than two months - commit one act of “green” (or more), From 1558 until 1829, Roman thanks to the eager participation of then register those acts. Here’s to the Catholics in England were not allowed to practice their faith openly. Someone during Heritage Project Canadians, and, at last check, we have next 500,000! that era wrote this carol as a catechism reached 520,000acts in our goal to get www.onemillionactsofgreen.com & Brossard, November 16th - song for young Catholics. It has two levels to one million. It has been the www.unmilliondegestesverts.com of meaning; the surface meaning, plus a The Quebec Association of Canadian- dedicated work of communities, -30- hidden meaning known only to members of Filipino Teachers (QACFT) and the schools, businesses and green- About Cisco - Cisco is changing the their church. Each element in the carol has a Filipino Canadian Community of the minded individuals who have actively way people work, live, play and code word for a religious reality, which the children could remember. South Shore (FCCSS) launched their and creatively participated in the learn in new and more sustainable joint Filipino Language and Heritage - OMAoG challenge to getus to this ways. Through our technology, we The partridge in a pear tree was Jesus Program on Sunday, November 16, point. For example: enable people to make powerful Christ. 2008 at the Centre Communautaire * Trent University is proving that it is connections whether in business, - Nathalie-Croteau, 2210 Andre Street in taking the lead as green schools go - education, philanthropy or creativity. Two turtle doves were the Old and New Brossard. Present at the opening were they have 443 members on the Our technology forms the foundation Testaments. - the following officers from QACFT: OMAOG site with 13,651 added of the Internet and the Internet isn't a Three French hens stood for faith, hope President Nancy Karidis, Language acts and a green house gas reduction network of computers, it's a network of and Heritage Program founder and ex- and love. of 679,122.65 kg. people. We call this "The Human - officio president Carmen Caro, Director Network" - a network of people with the The four calling birds were the four gospels without Portfolio Elma Bulatao, * Manitoba-based MTS Allstream has power to change the world we live and of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Director for Membership Mellany been super active as a company work in. We believe change is a good - The Five golden rings recalled the Torah or Perez, and Director for Youth and group, committing over 6,000 acts. thing, and that technology can and Law, the first five books of the Old Sports Rainier Omayao. The FCCSS * Look out for some healthy should improve life. Because of was represented by Phil Villafranca, Testament. competition in Alberta over the month Cisco’s solutions, people can come - Mely Villafranca and Chito Calma. of December as the town of Okotoks together in ways never before The six geese a-laying stood for the six Students and their parents were also in issues a formal challenge to the town imagined. It doesn't matter whether days of creation. attendance. of Airdrie on December 15. It will be the walls, borders, mountains, or oceans - Seven swans a-swimming represented the The students were arranged first city/town challenge issued stand in the way, over the network, sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit; - into three age groups – elementary, on behalf of OMAoG and clearly “The people can come together and high school and adults. Ms Perez took Prophesy, Serving, Teaching, Exhortation, Greenest Town” title is on the transform business, communities, Contribution. Leadership, and Mercy. the elementary-age group; Mr. line. governments, schools, and lives. - Omayao took the high school-age Mike Holmes, Canada’s Together, we are more powerful than The eight maids a-milking were the eight group while the adults sat down with favourite handyman has been actively weever could be apart. When the beatitudes. Mmes. Caro, Karidis and Bulatao. involved with sustainable community human network sets out to solve a - Nine ladies dancing were the nine fruits of Altogether, there were about twenty builds near Okotoks, and he has problem,the result is a Human Network students among the three classes. the Holy Spirit: Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, discussed hisown acts of green when Effect. www.cisco.com/ca Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, The first day went without a he’s been interviewed on The Hour Gentleness, Self-control. hitch. Thanks to QACFT Secretary with George Stroumboulopoulos. About CBC - CBC/Radio-Canada is - Daisy Bertiz, copies of the first day’s We’ve had various, international Canada’s national public broadcaster The ten lords a-leaping were the Ten lesson materials were prepared celebrities pitching in along side and one of its largest cultural Commandments. - beforehand. The students were full of Canadians to get the word out - Tim institutions. With 28 services offered enthusiasm and showed genuine Eleven pipers piping stood for the eleven Robbins,Jason Priestley, Alanis on Radio, Television, the Internet, faithful disciples. interest in the Filipino language and Morissette, Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and satellite radio, digital audio, as well as - culture. DavidFoster are among the list of through its record and music Twelve drummers drumming symbolized The QACFT originally celebrities who have shared their distribution service and wireless WAP the twelve points of belief in the Apostles' launched its Filipino Language and greentips and pledges for the and SMS messaging services, Creed Heritage program in September, 2007 campaign while on set of The Hour. CBC/Radio-Canada is available how, at the St. Malachy’s Parish Hall, 5330 It’s easy to get involved, and Clanranald Street, Montreal where it it’s not about overhauling your maintains a makeshift office. This life; it’s about one act from each OBIS on line business program continues and classes are still individual amassing to a million. being held at St. Malachy’s every In the past month alone, we have information is looking for sales Sunday, from 12:30 to 1:30 P.M. The launched our French language Filipino classes in Brossard are an companion site - Un Million De Gestes reps. Clear English speaking extension of this QACFT program and Verts (UMGV) - are held every Sunday at 3:00 to 4:30 www.unmilliondegestesverts.com, and Filipinos, hardworkers, will get P.M. The QACFT teachers for these introduced a new Facebook programs are purely volunteers and application so all acts of green can be paid every week on time. are not remunerated. shared in users Facebook status Full time positions. If you live in the South Shore updates and encourage other and would like more information on the Facebook friends to act. Based on Please contact Elvin 514-831-0940 Filipino classes in Brossard, call Phil at helpful user feedback to the OMAoG (450) 671-6992. site, we have added new acts and ONE MILLION ACTS OF GREEN soon, we’ll launch seasonal acts some One million acts of green of which include: MONT-CAL LOGISTICS Inc. congratulates Canadians *Recycle Your Christmas Tree 410 rue St. Jacques, Lachine H8R 2E8 * Reuse or Make Your Own Wrapping Tel.: 514-366-1020 FAX 514-366-1028 CONGRATULATES CANADIANS ON Paper E-Mail: [email protected] REACHING HALF-WAY * Send an e-Card Instead of a Paper MARK OF 500,000 ACTS Card REGISTERED * Avoid Using Disposable Plates, CBC and Cisco proudly Glasses, and Cutlery Hiring class 1 Local and announce that One Million Acts of * Avoid Excess Packaging, by Giving Green (OMAoG) Gift Alternatives Long Distance Team Drivers has reached a significant and * Buy Carbon Offsets impressive milestone. We have just There will be continued Please contact: Mark - 514-366-1020 surpassed 500,000 acts of green updates and new material added to the registered online at OMAoG

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 9 Fil-Am media based in Washington feted to luncheon

Seated from left: Nonoy Mendoza, PinoyGlobal & Fi;o[oino Image Magazine; Rita Gerona- Adkins of Philippine News, Jennie L. Ilustre of Asian Fortune; Becky Pagsibigan of Manila Mail, Ambassador Willy C. Gaa, Mrs. Linda Gaa, Bing Branigin of Manila Mail, Lito Katigbak of the Philippine Star. Standing from left: Minister & Consul Ariel Rodelas Penaranda, Minister and Consul General Domingo “Ding: Nolasco, Rodney jaleco of ABS/CBN, Rene Calandria of Pinoy Herald, Adolfo Paglinawan of Pinoy Global, and Minister Carlos “King” Sorreta, Deputy Ambassador and Char d’affaires. (Pinoy Global Photo) Washington, D.C. - Dec. 18 “King” Sorreta, Consul General Doming (Pinoy-Global) - Filipino-American “Ding Nolasco, Consul Ariel Penaranda, journalists based in the Nation’s Capital Consul Gines “Ging” Gallaga, Press & were hosted today to a sumptuous Information officer Consul Rico Fos, luncheon at the residence of the Cultural Officer. Philippine Ambassador to the United The Fil-Am media were States Willy C. Gaa, and his charming presented by Nonoy Mendoza, and hospitable wife, Mrs. Linda Gaa. PINOYGLOBAL, & Filipino Image “I wish to welcome the Magazine: Rodney Jaleco of ABS-CBN, members of the Fourth Estate to his Lito Katigbak of the Philippine Star, Rita luncheon honoring the Filipino Gerona-Adkins of Philippine News, journalists in this area,” stated Jennie L. Ilustre of Asian Fortune, Bing Ambassador Gaa. He also added that Branigin of Manila Mail, Rene Calandria METRO MANILA AND MAJOR PROVINCES of Pinoy Herald, Adolfo Paglinawan of he is open to any query from the guests. BANK HOURS AND BANK DAYS The Ambassador was joined by PINOYGLOBAL, and Becky Pagsibigan several senior staff members of the of Manila Mail. embassy, among them Minister Carlos EVEN SATURDAY & SUNDAY REMINDER TO ALL MEMBERS METRO MANILA AND MAJOR PROVINCES THE FASTEST & THE MOST RELIABLE SERVICE PINAKAMATAAS NA PALITAN, SIGURADO PO KAYO OR PROSPECTIVE MEMBERS TULOY PO KAYO SA ... The Filipino Solidarity Cooperative cordially invites you to a 4781 Van Horne Ave. (Top of Second Cup) post Christmas Pot Luck Supper Montreal, QC When: Sunday, January 4, 2009 Tel.: 514-448-5936 Time: 5:00-8:00 P.M. Place: FAMAS Building THE ONLY OFFICIAL AFFILIATE OF BANCO DE 4708 Van Horne Avenue Tel.: 514-733-8915 for information ORO - BDO - SM SHOEMART IN THE PHILIPPINES YOUR REMITTANCE IS 100% GUARANTEED AND SAFE WITH THE LARGEST BANK IN THE PHILIPPINES

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www.filipinostar.org December 2008 10 The North American Filipino Star Global Perspectives Mall crazy Philippines Three of the world's 10 largest as 12 screens; amusement arcades; shopping malls are now in the skating rinks or bowling alleys; health Philippines. and wellness centres; and, of course, The great malls of China--South floors of shops from local retailers to China Mall in Dongguan and the famous international names like Marks Golden Resources Shopping Mall in & Spencer and Ralph Lauren. Beijing are the two biggest. On Sundays, Catholic masses in But coming in a respectable third this predominantly Christian country place, thanks to a 90,000sqm are held in the walkways, where extension that opened this month, is shoppers squeeze past worshippers. Isaac T. Goodine the SM City North Edsa in the Inside the box, there is not a lot of Philippine capital. difference between the two chains: Human migration: one looks back The SMs malls have a shaper look; Robinsons a cosier atmosphere. At the beginning of this year Shanghai in my diapers! Our Manila's first malls were built back the heading for this column was All exhausted and bedraggled family was in the 1970s. Rising disposable about Migration in 2008, and I wrote met at the docks by members of a incomes among the middle-classes that the Society for International Christian association (that was spurred a mall boom in Manila Development, celebrating 50 years, affiliated with the Emmanuel Church in (population:12 million) over the past devoted the December 2007 issue of Shanghai where my family attended two decades. That malls are now its Quarterly to the issues of migration services) whose responsibility it was to springing up at a rapid rate in the and development. Throughout this assist refugees coming out of China . . larger provincial towns is an year global issues related to human . . . and thus began our new life in encouraging sign of how the economy migration have dominated election Hong Kong with our extended is faring, despite the current gloom. campaigns and occupied the hearts Christian family. It is unlikely that malls would play and minds of many people all around Dad quickly found a job with A visit to a mall--and I'll say right off such an important part in the lives of the globe. Each migrant has a story to help from the local Christian that I would not recommend SM City ordinary Filipinos-- both for shopping tell. Here is one from the Messenger, community, while Mum stayed home to North Edsa--is a must on a trip to and killing time--had it not been for the published by Parkdale United Church, raise the family and take care of Grand Manila, along with the old Spanish billions of dollars sent home by the Ottawa, in December 2008. Dad. Fast forward and ten years later walled city of Intramuros and a several million Filipinos living and (1964) Dad was among several church baywalk stroll at sunset. working overseas. TRUTH IS STRANGER THAN members gathered at a plot of land The country's jumbo-size mall This year, their remittances, FICTION with spade in hand, to plant trees and chains--SM and Robinsons--were despite the global financial meltdown by Gloria Goodine to officially inaugurate the Kowloon founded by Filipino-Chinese taipans: since the fourth quarter, is expected to Baptist Church. One year later, the SM by Henry Sy; Robinson's by John exceed a record US$15 billion. That's Someone once said, “Real life can be Kowloon Baptist Church was erected Gokongwei. Both are living legends about a tenth of the country's entire more remarkable than invented tales.” and formally dedicated in a ribbon- here, who helped shaped this gross domestic product to put in . . . . such as in the case of my own life. cutting ceremony. Over time, our country's vibrant retailing landscape. perspective. a family become more and more The big malls typically have vast It was Shanghai, 1954. I was barely 3 involved in the life and activities of the food courts; exhibition centres; months old and Dad, Mum, Grand Dad church -- Dad became a Deacon, the multiplex cinemas, some with as many and 3 siblings (all under 6 years) were Church Treasurer, taught Sunday on a ship bound for Hong Kong. You School, Mum became the Church see, life had become more restrictive Secretary and President of the RESTAURANT for Westerners (my Grand Dad being Women’s Missionary Union and my from England) and Eurasians (my siblings and I (now 6 in total) were LA MAISON NEW KUM MO parents being of English/Chinese baptized by full emersion, attended 66565565 CCoteote d desesk NNeigeseiges, 5047 Henri Bourassa Est ancestry) under the Communist Sunday School and sang in the choir. Montréal, QC H1G 2S1 regime, and the family had decided it Some of you may recall I Montreal, QC (Corner Appleton) Tel.: (514) 322-3133, 322-3130 was time to leave Shanghai while they traveled to Hong Kong last October to still were able to do so legally. visit my sister and brother. During my Bean Curd Seafood Soup Fish Maw Seafood Soup The voyage to Hong Kong brief stay, Janet and I returned to the 1/2 Crispy Chicken Baked Lobster with Ginger took several days and was quite Kowloon Baptist Church for the first Salt and Pepper Pork Loin Seafood with Chinese eventful. The seas were rough and time in about 20 years. The visit Stuffed Bean Curd with Broccoli Mum was in bed with seasickness. Bill, brought back many memories, Shrimps Saltand Pepper Cuttle Fish the eldest (who was 6) was given the especially the fine hymns that we could Sauted Seasonal Vegetables Fried Sea Bass Fish Steamed Rice responsibility of washing diapers, while still remember after all these years -- Steamed Rice $37.95 Janet (4 years old) guided our partially- Equally amazing was the fact that we 4 Persons $58.95 blind Grand Dad carefully around the recognized our former neighbor (and 4 Persons ship and Robert (2 years old) charmed church organist) well into her eighties, Fish maw seafood soup the ship’s passengers and crew with singing in the choir! Bean Curd Soup his command of the Chinese language. We are nearing the end of 1/2 Crispy Chicken 2 Baked Lobsters with Ginger Seafood with Eggplant And what of baby Gloria? Mum would 2008. I am thankful to have led such a Shrimp Cake with Chinese in Hot Pot recall this tale often during family “remarkable” life, starting with my birth Broccoli gatherings and end by saying, “. . . in Shanghai and growing up in Hong Stuffed Bean Curd with Sweet and Sour Pork Shrimp thank goodness, Gloria was such a Kong, having lived and worked in 9 Seafood with Bean Curd in good baby!” In fact, this was closer to countries, and now nicely settled in Seafood with Chinese broccoli the truth than you can imagine, as Canada, and all the while, behind the Hot Pot Fried Sea Bass Fish apparently I was a contented baby and scenes, who has been guiding me? I Salt and Pepper Squid House Fried Rice happy to stay in my crib most of the am reminded of one of my favorite Fried Sea Bass Fish Special Fried Noodles time, so much so that Mum (who you hymns – “All the way my Saviour leads Steamed Rice $125.95 will remember was seasick) me, what have I to ask beside? ...... $63.95 occasionally forgot to feed me! . . For I know what e’er befalls me, 6 Persons 10 Persons Back to the story --We had Jesus doeth all things well.” finally made it to Hong Kong and FREE DELIVERY 514-733-6029 freedom, unable to bring much in the He most certainly does! Minimum order of $10 way of material wealth with us, except Delivery hours: 514-733-1067 for a few pieces of luggage and some 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. gold jewelry that was smuggled out of 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. For party menu, call Kenny

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 11 Roasted Chicken Ingredients: * Pre-heat oven to 400 degrees * 2 kilo dressed chicken (broiler) Fahrenheit * 2 cups of lemon grass (tanlad) * Place the chicken on an oven * 3 tablespoons of cooking oil rotisserie. * If you don't have a * 2 tablespoons of salt rotisserie put the chicken on an * Make sure the chicken is clean elevated rack on a baking pan - breast with no remaining small feathers and no side up (so the bottom of the chicken Philippine Cuisine insides. Cooking Instructions does not touch the baking pan). * Wash thoroughly and pat dry with Bake for 1 hour or until the chicken is a paper towel golden brown. When you prick Paksiw na Pata sauce) * Rub the whole chicken with between the chicken thigh and body * 1/2 tablespoon baking soda cooking oil as well as the inside cavity. and the juice runs clear (not bloody) (Pork Hocks) * 1 tablespoon of monosodium * Next apply salt all over, again, the chicken is done. glutamate (MSG) including the insides. * Serve with mashed potatoes, * 4 tablespoons of flour * Fill the cavity with lemon grass * Enough oil for deep frying * Enough water for boiling Hours: Crispy Pata Cooking Instructions: Open Dec. 24th & 31st - 8:00-14:00 * Clean the pork pata by Closed - Dec. 25th & 26th, 2008 removing all hairs and by scraping the Jan. 1 & 2nd 2009 skin with a knife. Wash thoroughly. Mon. Tue. Wed. - 8 am - 5 p.m. * Make four to five inch cuts on Thu. Fri - 8 am- 6 pm Sat. 8 am-5 pm the sides of the pata. Closed on Sundays * On a deep stock pot, place the pata in water with soda and salt. Best wishes for the Holiday Season. Bring to a boil and simmer for 20 Pork loin Beef Picnic ham minutes. Then add the baking soda Approximately Blade steak (with bone) 1 kilo pork pata (washed & chopped) and continue to simmer for another 10 15 lbs # 1 liter stock minutes. * Remove the pata from the pot .69 49 29 # 1 cup vinegar lb . lb . # ? cup soy sauce and hang and allow to drip dry for 24 2 3 1 lb hours. An alternative to this is to # ? cup brown sugar Half or Whole Front quarter of beef # 2 laurel leaves thoroughly drain the pork pata and Boneless leg pork Approximately 200 lbs of ham # ? cup dried banana blossoms refrigerate for a few hours. Cut & Wrapped * After the above process, rub (soaked) 09 99 # 1 small head of garlic (minced) patis on the pata and sprinkle flour 35 . lb . liberally. 1. 2 lb # Pinch of oregano lb 3 # Pinch of salt & pepper * In a deep frying pot, heat 1 litre of fresh cooking oil and deep fry the pork pata Pork Spare Ribs blood with purchase Home smoked when available until golden brown. Instructions 1/2pork # In a pot, boil pork legs and discard meat 49 Crispy Pata Dip Sauce: 79 . lb Regular smoked water. . 2 bacon # Pour in stock and bring to a boil. 8 lb Mix 3/4 cup of vinegar, 1/4 cup soy # Pour in vinegar, soy sauce, brown Beef .89 sugar; laurel leaves, oregano, garlic, sauce, 2 cloves of crushed garlic, 1 Fresh Belly short ribs 4 lb slat & pepper, and banana blossoms. head of diced onion and 1 hot pepper. with skin 10 lbs & over # Simmer until pork is cooked and Salt and pepper to taste. .99 99 2 lb tender and sauce thickens in . lb .79 consistency. Roasted Chicken 2 4 lb # Serve hot. St.Chrysostome St. Remi St. Edouard Napierville Sherrington Crispy Pata Fresh pork blood Barrington Fresh bacon 203 219 202 Lacolle Hemmingford Fresh liver Jackson Road Sortie Preparation & drying: 4 hours to 1 day Havelock Exit No.6 Pork skin Canada Parc 219 Safari Class 15 Estimated cooking time: 20 minutes Available Covey Hill Road Boucherie Viau Inc. U. S. A. Malone Crispy Pata Ingredients: Moders Champlain 83 Covey Hill, Hemmingford QC J0L 1H0 * 1 Pata (front or hind leg of a pig including the knuckles) Tel.: (450) 247-2130 or (450) 247-3561 * 1 bottle of soda (7Up or sprite) Recipe * 1 tablespoon of salt Estimated cooking time: 1 1/2 to 2 h * 2 tablespoons patis (fish

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

Tel.: 514-297-4365 - 514-738-7999 Fax: 514-738-3297 E-Mail: [email protected] Reynaldo Balansi 4089-A Kent Avenue Montreal, QC H3S 1N5

www.filipinostar.org 12 The North American Filipino Star December 2008 The North American Filipino Star PHOTO GALLERY December 2008

Gilmore students decorate the Christmas tree just before their annual year-end Souvenir photo of Gilmore’s Christmas get together: Susana Cordova, Maricel Fonacier, party, December 14, 2008 Esmeralda Roldan, Leo Miranda, Martin Riendeau holding baby Emilien, Marivel Riendeau, Zenaida Kharroubi, Bernard Demol, Margie Tagyam, and Alice Lee of Ajennat Coiffure

Hard to catch that baby smile - Emilien Liseth Barrios holding a pina collada drink in Karaoke singer, Juvy Vales-Durocher, during Mark Alexandre Durocher posing with the Riendeau with his mom, Marivel during a restaurant in Montego Bay, Dec. 6, 2008 the Gilmore College Christmas party Trivial Pursuit game that he just unpacked. during Pro Travel int’l. training event. Gilmore’s Christmas party, Dec. 14, 2008.

Members of the Vigie Asiatique committee attended the annual workshop or day of reflections on the security needs of the Montreal community and other important subjects that concern the SPVM (Société policière de la ville de Montréal) on December 3, 2008. SPVM Director Mark Parent (2nd from right, second row) and Sgt. Nathalie Tetrault, coordinator, (2nd from left, second row) pose for souvenir with the committee. The Vigie Asiatique committee is Ambassador Jose Brillantes is cutting the ribbon during the inauguration of the new office of composed of 14 members, two from each of the 7 ethnic communities, namely, Bangladesh, Mercury Quick Financial, on Saturday, December 6, 2008 at 4781 Van Horne Avenue. He is China, India, Pakistan, Philippines, Shri Lanka, and Vietnam. They meet every 3 months or more flanked by Mr. Ramil Ramesh and Mr. Jhun Zapanta, business partners. often when needed.

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 13

Montreal visitor. Greg Hontiveros, a Filipino author/historian was in town last November 1, 2008 for a symposium on "gold links in the Philippines" sponsored by the Kalihukang Bisaya held at the Philippine Center. He is the author of two historical books, Butuan of a Thousand Years and A Fire on the Island. He is shown seated fourth from left.

Standing from left: Valent Lloyd-Hughes, Cres Ruiz, Norina Quenneville, Ramero Emboscado, Mary Dufresne, Mercy Remegio, Tina Solamo, Cirila Goel, Haydee Sarcon, Portia Madriaga, Diding Verginiza, Felix Salazar and Ex-chairman Vincent Quiblat. Sitting from left: Ex-chairperson Marlene Birao-Schachter, Visitor Filipino Author/Historian Greg Hontiveros (Inducting Officer), New Chairman Nereo Ruiz, Linda Helwig, Anita Lo and Ex- chairman Paul Imperial.

Filipino author/historian Greg Hontiveros This big, delicious chiffon cake is given by receiving a plaque from Kalihukang Bisaya KB ex-chairman Paul Imperial receiving a plaque from Marlene Birao-Schachter with KB Nancy Alcantara for the Christmas party. chairperson Marlene Birao-Schacter director Valent Lloyd-Hughes.

www.filipinostar.org 14 The North American Filipino Star December 2008

Imagine a song or a book writer. They investing in his business he is building write their songs or books once but get assets that would generate passive paid forever on it. This do-it-once-get- and residual income for him paid-forever type of income is called throughout his years on this planet and residual. Most people who have the years of his grandchildren. attained financial freedom have other Change your way of thinking: THINK people working to generate income for LONG TERM: START SMART them. Earning money by other INVESTING! people’s effort is called Leveraged Income. A Successful Filipino Entrepreneur with As hard as it may seem, to create Chicken Inasal leverage income, you have to have Only an Ilonggo know an authentic your own business where other people chicken inasal should taste. This is Entrepreneurs’ way of thinking work to generate income for you. Any what Treena Cueva-Tecson, a genuine Too many people are trying to start your cash! The problem with the business, whether it is a traditional Ilongga, born and raised in Bacolod, their home businesses with an ordinary typical job is that when you stop, the business, franchise, networking or carries with her when she opened her employee’s way of thinking. This has money stop. The stark fact is: one day internet based business. Tambokikoy Restaurant which sell become a common reason why not you might get sick and won’t be able to Employees work to generate secure authentic chicken inasal – cooked and long after sitting down and giving it a get back to work. Sooner or later you income. Business Entrepreneurs works prepared the way a genuine inasal fair look into even the most lucrative will retire. Companies get broke and to build up assets with income streams should be. business opportunity they bump into, have to release their employee. No which generates for him ongoing “The inasal in Manila are sweet, dry they put it away and decide not to take matter what the situation, as soon as Passive Income (either residual or and not cooked well.” Ilonggos would any chances. you stop working, the money will leverage income or both). In other really know the authentic taste of What has happened here is the most surely stop coming. So much for word, Business entrepreneur works to lucrative business opportunity has secure income…! build himself what I call ”A Money been looked into by an ordinary 9 to 5 A job with secure income is necessary Machine” which is designed to worker who appears NOT to be for those who has not set up their generate ongoing income. business-minded. If you are like most business yet. True, but a true FOURTH: INVESTMENTS, people , you have probably considered Entrepreneur won’t settle merely for INVESTMENTS starting your own business yourself. job-security. They aims for more, such It is common for people who seek job But above all, you have to understand as financial security. No, they won’t security to hesitate to invest. The that to make into successful Business have fast cash and they won’t have any reason is understandable; for some of Entrepreneur, one has to change their secure income yet – at least not in the us the risk of investing in a business way of thinking first. beginning. And often, they won’t have are just too much to handle. A true FIRST: DO NOT EXPECT FAST CASH any income for the first few months. Business Entrepreneur understands Beside gambling or winning a lottery, Business entrepreneur think of the big that in order to build -what I would call- working as an employee is the only picture. What they do is building a 'money-machine', investments are way to get fast cash…”fast” as in 25 assets from which their money will necessary. There is just no such things working days’. This kind of cash is come in month after month, year after as businesses without investments. always certain to come as long as you year. The money will not come now, It They knows that it takes time and effort work for your boss. But as you might not even come for the next few to develop a successful business. But probably already know it, as soon as month but as soon as the business is they also knows that investing money you stop, the money stops. up and running, it will keep generating is just as important! True entrepreneurship-minded people even when they chooses to stop Sometimes it takes the Business know that it takes time to develop an working as long as they got the right Entrepreneur months or a year before attack plan for their businesses. It take business. And THAT is financial he can finally reap the big success. time to build a strong and solid security! Sometimes even a bit more. It takes a business which delivers ongoing THIRD: GENERATE PASSIVE INCOME couple of years of investing time, effort income through many years. True Financial freedom is not measured by and money. But this is not too hard for Business Entrepreneur hold on to this how much you earn by working, but by them to handle. A true Entrepreneur inasal” said Treena who have a full time truth. “We reap, what we sow, but the how much money come in with only thinks long term. They knows that in marketing and PR career before giving harvest is never in the same season as little or no work at all. This kind of the end, This working and money it up to be a full time wife and mom two the planting.” income is called Passive Income. This investing will finally pay off! years ago. Being a business minded SECOND: AIM FOR JOB SECURITY fact has been know for decades by real A Home Based Business Entrepreneur woman, Treena applied blue ocean OR FINANCIAL SECURITY? wealthy people. Successful and would only have to invest just 5-10 strategy in her business by offering Employees would rather have job wealthy entrepreneur do only little work hours a week for a couple of years and something that the saturated market security. Why? Simple: the income is and sometimes it is even possible to he would only have to make low does not have yet; a whole chicken secure. As long as loyally works for do the work only once but still budget investments into his home with an authentic inasal taste. your boss, you will be certain to get generating recurring income on it. based business. And at the end of the Treena started his Tambokikoy just last time of working and investing, our year, armed only with a P250,000.00 in Entrepreneur would have turned it into capital, her mom’s recipe and her a significant amount of residual income husband’s full support. Tambokikoy stream! which means chubby in Ilonggo is I'm not talking about money that envisioned by Treena as a take-out comes in today and is gone tomorrow place that will sell authentic-tasting but income that keeps coming in whole chicken inasal. month after month, year after year... With a very ideal location and right money that -as Gery Carson has put it- promotional approached, responsed "when you've left this planet continues has been very good. Office people and to provide for your spouse, children, or families have been dropping by to grandchildren." order take out, starting lunch time until By then you would think that all your dinner. Treena cooked her chicken valuable time and money you have inasal rotisserie-style over charcoal spent would be worth it. and not on electric grill. By chopping it Commonly an ordinary employee, who two minutes after it cooked, she said fears too much to invest, works hard to the juice goes back and it does not dry receive his pay check every month. out. Treena is expecting to recoup her Most likely he even retires broke. investment in a month or two. This Before he knows it, he leaves the early, inquiries of franchising have planet with nothing to leave for his already been received. a family. A true Business Entrepreneur is prepared to invest. He knows by www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 15 Arroyo praises military for staying away from politics Estrada on Legarda as VP: What offer? President Gloria Macapagal- our blessings and look at the future Nevertheless, Yano admitted there Former president Joseph Estrada simply Arroyo has praised the Armed Forces with hope, confidence and optimism," are “continuing efforts” by some laughed off reports Senator Loren of the Philippines (AFP) for staying she said. sectors to “entice” soldiers with the Legarda won’t join him as running mate away from politics as she noted that Politics, Yano said, “has enticed lure of political power as he warned should he decide to run in the 2010 national leaders must focus on the the ambitious to interfere in the realm the “merchants of political wares” to presidential polls. economy amid the global financial "I have not even declared that I will crunch. run for president, how can I say that I will Speaking before the military and run with Loren as my running mate?" guests at the 73rd founding Estrada said in a statement Monday. anniversary of the AFP in Camp Legarda on Sunday reiterated her Aguinaldo, Arroyo thanked Military earlier declarations that if she does run Chief of Staff General Alexander Yano in 2010, it will only be for the No. 1 post. for crushing "the enemy that is called Estrada said he only mentioned that Legarda could be a good vice president politics" within the military. but denied saying he wanted her as In his own speech at the AFP running mate. anniversary, Yano had assured Arroyo "There is no doubt that Senator that “the enemy called politics and Legarda has the qualifications to be not political ambition” has been slain only a good vice president but even a within the military. good president," said Estrada. Even as she cited the country's "Who knows, if she tops the surveys 4.6 economic growth as other and if she maintains her performance as countries fall into recession, Arroyo a top senator, I might even endorse her noted the need to focus on the for president in 2010. But I never said economy. she would be my running mate," Estrada "The national leadership must not added. be on politics but on the economy," Legarda was among the Senators in she said. 2001 who voted for the opening of an Arroyo also announced additional envelope that would supposedly prove benefits for soldiers, including of pure politics while still clad in the “leave the AFP alone.” claims Estrada plundered millions and doubling their hazard pay and soldier’s uniform and while still Yano said the Filipino soldier placed it in his bank account. increasing their subsistence pay. bearing arms.” “does not lust for military glory, so The non-opening of the envelope "Upgrading will continue But, he added, in his speech at neither would the dangling of political televised a crying Legarda, and has particularly in training,” she said. “We ceremonies marking the 73rd perks lead him to abandon his sworn spurred what is now called the EDSA 2 people power revolution, which will make Philippine defense work to anniversary of the Armed Forces, “The sacred duty to God, country and overthrew Estrada. stop insurgency by 2010." Filipino soldier understands his people.” Estrada was convicted of plunder As Christmas approaches, Arroyo scared duties and knows that “Our commitment is to never tire and detained for over five years. urged the Filipinos to remain intervening in political processes and in the performance of our mission, not President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo optimistic. conflict while still in active service in to ever deviate from our focus,” Yano granted him executive clemency in 2007. "This Christmas, let us all count the AFP is not one of them.” said. a During the 2007 elections, Legarda however joined the United Opposition, an Estrada-headed coalition. a

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www.filipinostar.org December 2008 16 The North American Filipino Star

learn from their experience how they responsibilities. built a strong future for the people - the Annually and in collaboration co-operative way. with the executive management team, the board reviews the Vision, Mission Empowering THE CALGARY CO-OPERATIVE and Values for Calgary Co-op, and sets EXPERIENCE strategic direction for a five-year the people Locally owned and managed, planning period and annual goals. the Calgary Co-operative Association It continues to practice corporate was organized in 1955. It operates 22 social responsibility, including grocery stores, 26 gas stations, 11 investing in communities. In fact, in By Jerry O. Estrada travel offices and 15 liquor stores in 2004, over $1.5 million was extended Calgary. Today, Calgary Co-op is one to help and support its community of the largest retail co-ops in North where its members and employees live America with 413,000 members, 4,000 and work. employees, with $314 million in assets If the example of the Calgary and annual sales of $884 million. Co-op can inspire the 12 000 Filipinos Collaboration Towards A Better Life Calgary Co-op is proud of its local who live in Cote des Neiges in close roots and its reputation as one of the proximity to the Filipino Coop, it will not Two days left before deadline in nature have a good effect if it works best grocery retailers in Calgary. It has take long before we can see it become and I still didn’t know what topic I with organizations that are economic in built reputation on its strong a viable business enterprise. a should write for this month until I purpose. In order to succeed in any commitment to member-customer remembered that there are three business endeavor we need service and the communities it serves Do you want to learn to sources of learning: books; media “business-friendly” laws and support through financial and other community speak French in the fast, (print and broadcast); and other from the government especially in its services. and easy way? peoples’ experience. Later, I found early stage. Likewise, to give meaning The 9 board of directors myself browsing some Philippine news to any political efforts it must be Enroll now at Gilmore supervises and manages the on the web. converted to something that benefits International College management of the business and It seems that the news look all the people. There is an adage that affairs of the Calgary Co-op in the same to me - Christmas is on the says - “He who owns the gold rules the accordance with the COOPERATIVE Intensive French course air; the lives of people in the world.” ACT, Regulations, Articles, and by- Philippines are also the same, but with We need a business enterprise from Level 1 to 6, laws. a difference - there are three types of that is essential to people’s welfare like Each level = 45 hours Elected directors serve for a people in our country: those who have what the majority of our Chinese, Jews, three-year term or as required to fill any 9 hours weekly = 5 nothing (have-not) and wish to take and Vietnamese friends are doing. vacancies. The term of office for weeks what others will give to them; those They are successful in financial matters director positions expires on a 6 levels = 30 weeks who have not enough (have-less); and because they have learned the secrets staggered basis each year, ensuring those who have much (rich) and who of managing a business and they help that experienced directors remain on wish to have more. one another. Call 514-485-7861 to the board to assist and mentor newly My memory dates back to the It is good that some elected directors with their roles and register early years when I can recall the organizations that are political in nature hardship of many of our fellow Filipinos like FAMAS (Philippine Association of in our country that still prevail until now. Montreal and Suburbs) is involved in The people in the rural areas grow promoting the businesses and vegetables, breed cattle and community activities of Filipinos propagate seafoods. Of these they sell through the efforts of Riza Esmeralda the best and very often they still starve Sarto, Director of Public and themselves. Government Relations, Claro Although the Philippines has Bermudez (President), and FAMAS rich natural resources, outside Directors. multinational companies own the Salve Desprez (President of businesses that exploit them. Our Philippine Centre Foundation of people do the cuttings for a small Greater Montreal) and husband, Abel wage; the lumber is taken away while are helping a business enterprise like their own houses are small and cold. the Filipino Coop. There, I also met Pat The wealth created by village (barrio) and Fred Magallanes (Publisher of folks in their community is not being Filipino Forum Newspaper). It was used to benefit their community. there I knew that the Magallanes family Factories and shopping malls is a close-knit family friend of Sen. were built in the urban areas. They Nene Pimentel, who happens to be a employed people from the rural areas family friend, too of my former boss, and the wages they paid were low. Atty. Mordino Cua. It’s nice to see Mr. People worked long hours and food and Mrs. Magallanes there supporting had to be bought from a store and all the Coop. out of their tiny wages. They became If there are more people to Avec l’éducation, tout devient possible… Oui, la vie est belle d’ici ! dependent on their wages but often collaborate and extend their help either sank into depths of greater poverty. in terms of talent, skills and time, the Cours de français langue seconde* On the other hand, people who Filipino Coop will thrive because the immigrated to other countries, Coop is owned and managed by its French Second Language courses Cursos de francès lengua segunda particularly, to Canada have a better members. If the Coop will succeed, the Курс французского языка quality of life than those who had no surplus (net income) will be distributed other choice but to keep on struggling as dividends and refunds to its on their meager income. member-owners. Let’s patronize, help DÉBUT : entrée continue DURÉE : cours de jour, 20 heures / semaine For the nth time, I have been it and someday we could say that 30 heures / semaine mentioning in this column the we’ve done something worthwhile for advantages of collaboration, the need the people and to the community. *Vous pouvez être éligible à une allocation de formation par Emploi Québec. for Filipino organizations to link with We all know that it takes time each other for us to attain a purpose – to create a business enterprise like a Commission scolaire Marguerite-Bourgeoys a better life for Filipinos. We feel lucky co-operative. Let’s remember that even Centre d’éducation des adultes Outremont that we enjoy a good standard of living the church is not built in a day. It is not Renseignements et inscriptions : 514.273.3353 and it is about time that we give back to to be finished without a struggle. 500, bd Dollard ( Outremont ) the community a share of our good Expect that and be patient. fortune. Below is a summary of Calgary Venez voir www3.csmb.qc.ca/ecoles/ceaoutremont Organizations that are political Co-op’s history and governance. Let’s

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 17 Pasko na Kapamilya…ABS-CBN 55th Anniversary Christmas Special

Dumating na ang panahon ng Dome! Ang Kapamilya Christmas President na si Charo Santos Concio, magpapakitang gilas ang ilan sa mga pagbibigayan ng bawat pamilya at Special ngayong taon ang siya ring hindi lamang pagbibigay aliw ang ‘celebrity families’ sa kanilang very magkakaibigan. Ngunit ang pinaka- nagmamarka sa 55th Anniversary ng handog ng Christmas Special. special musical number. Bigay todo importante ay ang pagsasama-sama nangunguna at pinaka-malaking Ipinakita rin dito ang ilan sa mga ang cast ng lahat ng teleseryes, ng buong pamilya sa pagdiriwang ng media network. Doble selebrayon, highlights ng matagumpay na sitcoms, talk shows at musical pag-ibig para sa isa’t isa at doble saya! nationwide feeding program, ang programs ng Kapamilya network. pagpapasalamat sa mga biyayang Ang musika ay handog ni maestro ‘Bayanijuan’ at performance ng theme Masasaksihan din ang pinaka- natanggap mula sa buong taon. Ryan Cayabyab at ng kanyang song nito ng iba’t ibang artists. kilala at paboritong noontime show, Ipinagmamalaking ihandog ng orchestra at may higit sa 100 Kasama ang mga opisyal at ang Wowowee habang Kapamilya network ang isang napaka- Kapamilya stars ang hahataw at empleyado ng network, kasama ang magdadagdag ningning naman ang espesyal na regalo para sa bawat kakanta sabay ang nakakaenganyong mga fans at supporters ng mga Star Magic talents. Kapamilya - ang ‘ABS-CBN 55th tugtugin. Kapamilya, kumpleto ang mga Makisali at makisaya sa ABS-CBN Anniversary Christmas Special’ sa Big Sa pangunguna ng ABS-CBN nakaka-kilig na love teams sa kanilang 55th Anniversary Christmas Special performance habang ang mga na mapapanood sa Disyembre 21 sa pinakakilalang comedy icons sa Sunday’s Best.. a bansa ang hihirit at magbibigay saya. May kasabihan nga na ‘talent runs in the family’ kaya naman

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 18 The North American Filipino Star Rufa Mae focuses on career FILIPINO STAR after break up from the Philippine Movie Press Club S H O W B I Z G O S S I P (PMPC) the Star of The Night Award and the Best Comedy Actress for the weekly gag show “Bubble Gang." The actress, who just ended her New beginning for Karylle almost one-year relationship with Bobby Lopez, a Mexican-American national, said that she always believe that her Mr. Right will eventually show up. "I always believe na mayroon isa diyan para sa akin," she added. The actress said that to focus 100% on her career is her personal choice. "Mas choice ko ngayon... finally ngayon gusto kong itodo na i-focus ang sairli ko, ang 100% sa career ko. I'm always professional, I love my job Rufa Mae Quinto pero hati though masarap may inspiration, pero happy ako ngayon After her break up with her kasi I'm back with my family," Quinto Mexican- American boyfriend, said. actress-comedienne Rufa Mae Quinto The actress said that after almost said she's now focused on her career nine years of being independent, and admitted that she's not dating she's now back with her family, anyone. especially with her grandmother. "Wala akong date, [pero] at least, "Kasi for nine years, hindi kami ang dami kong awards. Magandang magkasama, una sa lahat, na miss ko sign, lalo na ngayon magpapasko. sila. Close ako sa family ko. Medyo Magandang Christmas gift ito sa nawalan lang ako ng oras, at the akin," Quinto said after she received same time nagdadalaga ako," she two awards from this year's Star ended. a Awards. Quinto received on Sunday

ABS-CBN hosted a welcome she go sexy to prove to Dingdong, also presscon for Karylle after she signed an underwear model, that she can do Lorna Tolentino denies cashing in up a one-year contract with them. what he does? "There was a time I was afraid to "No naman. At this point, naging on Daboy’s legacy face the press," she confesses. "Kasi mas adventurous lang siguro ako and pino-process ko pa noon ang mga I’m really flattered kasi I didn’t think “Proceeds of the HOPE CD will go nangyari. But now, tapos na ‘yun, so puede pala akong mag-endorse ng to a good cause. At the same time it’s I’m ready to face now whatever underwear until the Bench offer came. not really about Rudy. The HOPE CD is question you’ll ask of me." Maganda naman ang kinalabasan ng for cancer patients who will be going It can’t be denied that her career pictorial and I’m proud of it. Now, may through chemotherapy and if they feel that was on a status quo at GMA-7 got offers din from Maxim and FHM but I’m impatient, they can listen to music that a boost it badly needs due to her not ready for that yet." will inspire them to fight and to hang controversial breakup with Dingdong Will she drop the businesses on," she said. Dantes. ABS is now casting her as where she and Dingdong are On the other hand, she said the Kristine Hermosa’s cousin in the TV associates? new movie "Magkaibigan" with Estrada remake of "Maruja." She has signed up "No. Nag-uusap naman kami and, is "Jinggoy's way of immortalizing their for a new album with EMI Records. also, we have other partners, the friendship." The senator earlier Bench Body also got her as underwear Garcias, who are the ones really dedicated the movie to Daboy. endorser. What can she say about running Centerstage in Timog and The actress, who is gearing up for this? Makati. Fully booked nga kami for the a big television project with Gabby "Well, as they say, everything holidays. We also have a new Concepcion, said that she will also find happens for a reason. I’m in a new restaurant, Mei Lin." time to read Daboy’s autobiography, home now, this is a fresh start and I’m She was quoted she’ll never which was written by his sister Marie thankful for this. When something bad reconcile with Dingdong because she Fernandez. The autobiography happens to you, it’s up to you to dwell has realized some things about him Lorna Tolentino recounts the childhood life, trials and triumphs of the country's "Prince of on the past or leave it behind and that she didn’t acknowledge before. Multi-awarded actress Lorna Action" before he succumbed to move on para may blessings na What are those? Tolentino dismissed rumors that she is cancer early this year. dumating. I also changed my manager. "That’s between the two of us na using the name of her husband, late Tolentino said she will visit Daboy's Nasa Stages na ako of Audie Gemora lang. My dad taught me never to wash actor Rudy Fernandez, to promote tomb on Christmas Day as part of her and I trust their strategies for my your dirty linen in public and that’s various projects such as a photo healing process. She also shared her career." something I’ll never do." exhibit, movie, album and many plan to go back to work starting this What can she say to some So does she still feel the pain of others. In an interview, Tolentino said January 2009. comments that she seemed so the breakup? all the initiatives named after Daboy “Ang process of healing ko ay nervous and was not at her best when "Wala na. Pero noon, I was really were really made for the memory of her asikasuhin ang maramig bagay kasi she sang the National Anthem in the hurt and what helped me is that I faced husband by people who really loved hanggng December na lang tapos Pacquiao fight? the pain head on. Rather than drown in and supported the actor. gusto ko ng magwork na ng January "I’m really surprised when I heard self pity, I listened to self-help audio She said the HOPE album was hopefully sana. Sana ay matapos ko that pag-uwi ko rito. Kasi doon sa Las books, turned to running to lessen the recorded with the help of Daboy's lahat itong Decemeber. Ang dami pa Vegas, right after I sang, people stress and sought the help of a priest closest friends including Sharon kasi at I feel hindi ko matatapos by flocked to me, Pinoys, Americans, friend na pinakuha ako ng retreat Cuneta, Senators Bong Revilla and December,” she said. a even Mexicans, congratulating me as where we did a lot of sharing and I Jinggoy Estrada, Philip Salvador, Tirso they liked the way I sang the song." opened up about my feelings. I can Cruz III, Christopher de Leon, Edgar Her sexy pictorial for Bench will be say now that I’ve moved on." a Mortiz, Ricky Davao and even Aga unveiled at Trinoma this Saturday. Did Muhlach. www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 19 Cory The Musical: a tribute to a Ramiele back in the Philippines beloved President her sexy pictures circulated in the accomplished singers and thespians internet. She’s with other women, — Isay Alvarez (as Cory), Sherwin insinuating she’s a lesbian. "My mom Sozon (as Ninoy), Robert Seña (as saw the pictures and she said there’s nothing wrong with them so I should Ferdinand Marcos), Pinky Marquez not worry about it. She knows the girls (as Imelda Marcos), Tommy Abuel (as in the photos are good friends of mine the reporter), Sheila Parducho, Lou and we were just hanging around and Veloso, Andy Bais, and Rito Asilo. having fun. We weren’t doing anything Nestor Torre directs the musical. objectionable at all. Once and for all, Lourdes “Bing” Pimentel is the hindi po ako lesbian. Babae po ako." musical’s composer and producer. While she’s here, Ramiele will visit The musical is Mrs. Pimentel’s her dad’s hometown in Polillo Island in everlasting gift to an ailing Cory — “a Quezon and her mom’s relatives in tribute to a beloved President from a Zamboanga. Her boyfriend’s family is grateful nation.” Although the musical from Apalit, Pampanga and they also is about a turbulent past of our history, Ramiele Malubay plan to go there. "My parents and I are it still entertains. Some songs are all spending Christmas here so we’ll be angelic and solemn; others are American Idol finalist Ramiele going around a lot as I know there’s so stirring. Some scenes are plaintive; Malubay arrived last Friday and was much to see." others are happy and hilarious. And presented to the press last Sunday by Ramiele stands only 4’11" so she’s there are segments in Cory that hint of the producer of her concert with Ogie dubbed by the "American Idol" jurors as Cameron Mackintosh’s production of Alcasid, Brian Sombero whose the "Big Voice from the Small Adorable Les Misérables. company, Underground Studio, aims to Idol." Born in Dammam, Saudi Arabia For many who attended the gala, mount more concerts here. on Sept. 6, 1987, her parents are the musical brought nostalgia and Ramiele came with her boyfriend, engineer Roger Malubay and nurse provoked deep reflection. The Austin Torres, who wants to join local Alicia Macrohon. She was 4 when their musical’s ending message is that the showbiz so she was warned by friends family moved to Miamar, Florida, USA. that he might just be using her to get a fight is not over. To the crowd’s She’s been singing since she was 2 break here. cheering, Cory spoke during the and she quickly became a favorite "Hindi manggagamit ang boyfriend guest in Pinoy gatherings in Florida. curtain call. What she said in Pilipino ko," she says in fluent Tagalog. She did front acts for Pinoy singers who was moving-that despite the physical "Sinamahan niya ko rito to support me. did shows there, like Martin Nievera, hardship imposed on her by colon Kung mag-aartista siya, he’ll do it by Kuh Ledesma, Basil Valdez, and others. Isay Alvarez plays the part of Cory cancer, she assured us of her active himself and start from the very She was only 16 when she first joined support in the continuing fight for beginning. When I met him in California, "American Idol" auditions and was Cory The Musical is a tribute to freedom and democracy. he didn’t even know who I am. Also, rejected. She joined again this year and one of the Philippines’ most beloved Cory The Musical reminds us how he’ll have to learn Tagalog first kasi finally made it. She’s in third year Presidents. It is about the life of Cory Ninoy’s martyrdom and the fierce, English lang ang alam niya. Ako, I nursing at Broward College but her Aquino — as wife, mother, Filipino noble resistance of the woman in learned how to speak Tagalog kasi our studies are now on hold while she gives citizen, and hero. The musical traces yellow galvanized the Filipino people parents taught us and also, may TFC showbiz a try. "I have a meeting with the Cory’s happy moments as Ninoy’s to topple the Marcos dictatorship. kami sa bahay." Disney Channel when I return to the wife and mother to five children, her Cory, the person, also symbolized the She seems quite controversial as US," she says. a adjustments to the rough-and-tumble collective action that defeated Fidel world of Ninoy’s politics, her suffering Ramos’s plan to extend his term as Dingdong Dantes 6th on E! under the Marcos dictatorship, her president and the collective action trials upon Ninoy’s martyrdom, her that forced Joseph Estrada to resign. World’s Sexiest Men list dilemmas as de facto leader of the Cory The Musical will be opposition against Marcos and performed at the Meralco Theater on Dingdong Dantes has been voted eventually as President of the Dec. l, 2008, Jan. 16, 2009, and Jan. one of the 25 Sexiest Men of the Philippines. 17, 2009. a World. He’s in the top half of the elite This is history performed by list, giving him the honor of being the highest-ranked Asian celebrity hunk. Dingdong, star of the top-rated Bea sheds ‘Betty’ braces for new GMA soaps Marimar and Dyesebel and one of the country’s top product drama flick endorsers, was a spot below Oscar her "Betty La Fea" braces to star in the nominee Djimon Hounsou (Amistad, new Star Cinema drama flick "And I Blood Diamond), but several slots Love You So." In an interview, Alonzo ahead of Hollywood stars Ryan said the movie is her first to be paired Reynolds, Oliver Martinez, and with actor Sam Milby and will be a far Enrique Iglesias who is half-Filipino. departure from her usual light, The E! (Entertainment Television) romance films. "Medyo dramatic siya world’s 25 hottest blokes voted by 20 compared to sa mga nilalabas na Star judges was topped by UK football Cinema ngayon na light. This one ay superstar David Beckham, with medyo dramatic talaga," she said. Johnny Depp taking the second place. Aside from drama, the actress also Both Beckham and Depp said they are shared that she was challenged with flattered by their inclusion. her role as a glamorous lady who's the Dingdong, has recently broke up complete opposite of Betty La Fea, the with long-time girlfriend Karylle whom character she portrays in the hit TV he just might meet in Las Vegas where series "I Love Betty La Fea." she’s singing the National Anthem at "And glamorous ako dito away the Pacquiao-dela Hoya bout. from Betty La Fea," she added. E! is one of the most widely Alonzo started her first shooting viewed cable networks, available to 80 day for "I Love You So" on November million cable and direct broadcast 26. The movie, directed by Laurenti satellite subscribers in the US, and in Bea Alonzo Dyogi, also stars hunk actor Derek 600 million homes internationally. a Ramsay. a Actress Bea Alonzo is trading in Dingdong Dantes More Showbiz Gossip - SEE PAGE 20

www.filipinostar.org December 2008 20 The North American Filipino Star happy to just be his wife. But my work as well as we can, then live with Showbiz Gossip Continued from p.19 husband, who is also my No. 1 fan, whatever intriga comes. What’s said, “Hindi pwedeng matapos ang important is that my husband and I Lovi blooms with new music buhay mo kasi nag-asawa ka lang.” I know what is really happening. continued taking projects, until we had “Magkaibigan,” written by Reyes, Just recently, she filled up the a baby three years later. is loosely based on the life of the late Music Museum in her debut concert, Now that you’re back, are you also action star Rudy Fernandez, who died which also served as the launch of ready for intrigues? of cancer early this year. Also in the "Bloom," the title of the second and Anthony and I are not defined by cast are Tirso Cruz III and Bobby latest album of today’s youngest what people say we are. We just do our Andrews. a female multi-media star Lovi. With the release of "Bloom," the Vicky Belo’s ex-bf in hospital after teener proves that her recording success was not a fluke. With 11 newly suicide attempt? recorded songs, Lovi shows her versatility as she shifts from Tagalog His camp denied this and said he ballads on the Vehnee Saturno tracks just suffered from over-fatigue since "Dito sa Puso" and "Sa Pag-iisa" to right after he came home from a sophisticated English ditties: "Second vacation in the US with Dr. Vicky, he Time Around" penned by Viktoria and went straight to work and did surgery her revival of "Love on a 2 Way Street." on some patients until 11 p.m., so he In "Sana," the album’s first single and really got so exhausted and collapsed. the track Lovi is currently promoting, But someone close to the Belos she sings with the wishful thinking of a say it is obvious Dr. Vicky’s daughter, Crystalle Henares, is very happy these Lovi Poe 15-year-old. But then she starts showing her maturity in tracks like "Not days now that her mom has called it Lovi has grown up. Since she for Sale" and "Save the Sunlight." quits with Hayden. She’s always been released her debut album three years There are also the Ogie Alcasid against the relationship as she felt ago, when she was just sixteen years songs in "Nais Ko" and "Paulit-Ulit" Hayden is just taking advantage of her of age, Lovi has proven to the public which the singer co-wrote with Alcasid. mom, something which Hayden has what it takes to be a star. In "I’m Your Friend," Lovi becomes a repeatedly denied. It’s said their rift She is not just the daughter of woman who’s in love in the same started while they we’re on holiday in Fernando Poe, Jr. She has proven to tradition of Mariah Carey or Celine the US where they watched the the public that she has the talent to Pacquiao fight. Dr. Vicki reportedly got Dion. " a match her name. some damning evidence that Hayden indeed had a fling with Katrina Halili, a Happy to be back in the Vicky Belo with ex-beau Hayden Kho Belo model with whom Hayden appears naked in their print ad. Hayden Kho, the singing doctor movies (Wonder what Katrina has to say about who joined "Celebrity Duets" then went this?) really believe that kids need the full into acting in soaps like "Marimar" and Our source said Dr. Vicky has attention of their parents. "Kim Sam Soon," was taken to the vowed she’ll just concentrate on her And what did they say? Makati Medical Center recently, beauty businesses this time and will They’re all excited. Natutuwa ako allegedly because he tried to kill forget about love. Before this, she also kasi may blessing nila. himself after his girlfriend, Dr. Vicky got burned with another guy whom What was it like facing the cameras Belo, broke up with him. she also trusted so much. a again? I had fun on the set. It was like I just went to a party that was 12 days Jean Garcia finds new love long. Are you also ready for TV now? Jean and daughter Jennica are Time is really the issue here. I have both in the cast of "Shake, Rattle & to balance a lot of things. I can’t be tied Roll X" but they don’t get to act to a project that will require me to work together as they belong to different until the wee hours for several days a episodes. Jean plays an avenging week. ghost in the "Class Picture" episode, I have four kids. They’re into while Jennica is with Marian Rivera in competitive sports. They train the "Nieves" episode about engkanto. regularly. My daughter Hannah is a Jean, Jennica, Polo and Krissa Mae Maricel Laxa: “My husband is my No. 1 gymnast. She won first place in a Arietta (said to be Polo’s new fan.” competition in the United States just squeeze) are all in GMA-7’s hit show, After 10 years of absence, award- last summer. "Gagambino," and it’s reported that winning actress Maricel Laxa is back My family runs a company Jean and Jennica give a cold doing movies. involved in conducting seminars on shoulder to Polo and Krissa Mae She’s in the cast of Jose Javier parenting and corporate training. We during their tapings, but Jennica Reyes’ “Magkaibigan,” which also also have a foundation that works with denies this. stars Dawn Zulueta, Christopher de NGOs whose advocacy is education. "Hindi totoong nagdededmahan Leon and Sen. Jinggoy Estrada. It is We bring in around 5,000 youth kami sa set," she say. "Kung totoo Maverick Films’ entry to the 2008 leaders every year and train them in mang may issue between Polo, Metro Manila Film Festival, which leadership. Right now, I’m also taking Krissa, and my mom, labas naman opens this Thursday. up my doctorate in communications in ako doon. Natatawa nga ako when I Maricel was last seen in the 1998 UP. heard that my mom is always crying at drama “Minsan Lamang Magmahal,” Was becoming a Born-Again Jean Garcia naglalasing pa raw dahil pinalitan na starring Edu Manzano and Maricel Christian also a factor in your slowing After she broke up with Polo siya ni Polo kasi it’s not true. She’s Soriano. The movie was also megged down in show biz? Ravales, Jean Garcia is said to have very much okay dahil ang dami by Reyes. When you become very involved in found a new love in businessman Jojo niyang trabaho ngayon kaya ang What made you say yes to your faith, you realize that you have a Manlongat, who has had other saya-saya niya. No reason for her to “Magkaibigan”? bigger purpose in life. My faith is actress-girlfriends before, notably get drunk." Direk (Reyes) is our ninong. (she is important to me. Before I became a Is it true Jean has found a new married to former actor Anthony Christian, I did films left and right, Sunshine Dizon and Angelu de Leon. Of course, Jean will deny this, like the love in Jojo Manlongat? Pangilinan.) without even considering if they’re "Ay, hindi ko po alam. Basta ang What was Anthony’s reaction? good material or not. way she denied Polo before, but just last week, she was seen canoodling alam ko, marami siyang manliligaw He said, “It’s about time.” He was Was marriage another factor? ngayon. I just don’t know kung may just waiting. Ako ang mapili. I’m so I was 23 when I married a person I with Jojo at the Embassy Bar in the sinagot na siya."a protective of my time in the house. I was very much in love with. I was Fort. www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 21 kinikilala ko pa ang sarili ko you know, I guess Jerry and I will Iza Calzado talks about lalo," saad ni Iza. say, we did well. Four years... S o , Kilala na ba niya ang sarili niya para thank you to Jerry for being the kind of breakup with BF masabing open nasiya for a new guy that sticks with me. But we both relationship? need space. a concrete answer. We're taking... We're "Ay, hindi pa! Hindi ko p a "And a friend told me, every giving each other a lot of space. yata ganoon kakilala ang sarili ko," breakup is a breakthrough. A n d That's it! That's what we are now—we're sagot niya. you know, if you look at it at a giving each other a lot of space." Dugtong niya, "Pero ang hirap, perspective na this may be good May chance pa ba na e. Baka when I say, the minute I give for you for now, then yun ang magkabalikan sila this na, ‘O, one year,' the next thing, mangyayari talaga," pahayag ni Iza. "Yeah, I think so. It's a good way of somebody will pop up. So, I don't It sounds na friends pa rin sila saying it," sagot ng aktres. wanna say anything about that. ni Jerry. Are the actually friends? So, break na sila, pero open Just livelife." "Yes. He's one of my best friends," for reconciliation? Would Iza say na ang long-distance sabi ni Iza. "Yeah, of course," pagsang-ayon relationship nila ni Jerry ang isa Kailan sila huling nag-usap? ni Iza. "Life's like that. You don't sa reason ng breakup nila? "Kanina, magkausap pa nga kayo, know what God's plans for you and you "I guess, the long-distance setup is di ba?" natatawang pambubuko ni can't say ever, ever, never! Y o u finally taking its toll. It's hard but, Mo kay Iza. a can't say that." Ayon sa ama ni Iza na si Lito Calzado, a choreographer, hindi Heavy drama to test Kim, Gerald raw ito maniniwala hangga't hindi mismong galing kay Iza ang Hope,” “Kimerald” will soon go the next kumpirmasyon. How open is she with level by taking mature dramatic roles her dad tungkol sa mga relationship? that tackle an important theme. "I'm actually very open with Though the network remains mum Iza Calzado my dad," sagot ni Iza. "But at that time, on details, Kim and Gerald will soon when I kept on saying, ‘Can we not talk become the lead characters of the Sa presscon ng Desperadas 2 about it yet it's because I'm not yet upcoming primetime soap “Tayong noong December 15, hindi nagawang ready?' Actually, I'm still in the Dalawa,” a heavy dramatic outing that magsalita ni Iza Calzado tungkol process of really, thinking things will soon put their acting abilities to the sa breakup nila ng boyfriend niyang si through. ultimate test. Jerry Garcia. "And you know what, siguro mas In fact, they are both deep in Sa Showbiz Central kahapon, masasagot ko ito nang maayos preparations for this project. Kim is December 21, live na nakapanayam ni after ng Holidays. Right now, like what I involved in acting workshops and has Mo Twister si Iza. Sinubukan ni Mo na said, I hope that people will just give consulted with nutritionists and mag-open up si Iza tungkol sa totoong me time and enough respect to really dietitians to keep her in tip-top shape estado ng kanyang love life. think things through and think during the upcoming tapings. Napabalita kailan lang, s a about the things that we want." Asked about her role, Kim said: "Sa Showbiz Central din, na binili ni Iza Ano ang naging reaction n g Kim Chiu wakas, hindi naman ako masyado poor ang bahay ni Rufa Mae Quinto, in daddy niya nang malaman nitong break As controversies continue to hound dito. May kaya na kami kahit papano." preparation for having a family of her na sila ni Jerry? their team-up, Kim Chiu and Gerald Gerald, on the other hand, is own. Pero kailan lang din, napabalita "My dad is like, ‘You're old Anderson remain as a bankable pair spending time with families in the ang breakup ni Iza with her longtime enough to know what you want. Just that ABS-CBN relies on for centerpiece Baseco compound to internalize his non-showbiz boyfriend na si Jerry think things through.' Alam mo yun? projects. character, an impoverished soldier, Garcia. Huwag padalus-dalos. So, yun lang. After several cutesy roles that made which is a departure from all the roles Break na nga ba sila? And he was like,‘Seek spiritual audiences relish their “kilig” moments, he has done before. "Sorry ha, idadaan ko na lang sa counseling.' And thanks to my cousin such as the current youth-oriented "Sobrang na-excite talaga ako kasi pangiti-ngiti," biro ni Iza. "Siguro you'll and my friend Karylle, doon niya ako bagong challenge na naman ito for me," assume na lang on what is on my face. series “Your Song Presents: My Only nili-lead sa direction na yun. So, Gerald said..a Sa ngayon siguro, I don't wanna give The North American Filipino Star Classified Ads FRENCH ADVERTISING DRIVING INTENSIVE COURSES TECHNICIAN Cheapest way to advertise! 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From five-star hotel lounges to richest and most marketable star in army camps to Manila's slums, boxing during a 16-year span. He had Filipinos celebrated a victory by a big reach advantage and towered Manny Pacquiao that gave this over Pacquiao, setting off fears he country a break from its financial could outpunch the Filipino. worries. Pacquiao's mother, Dionisia, could

Manny Pacquiao (right) punches Oscar de la Hoya during their welterweight showdown at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada on December 6. The Filipino boxing icon Pacquiao has stopped his rival with a brutally dominant performance.

President Gloria Macapagal not bear to see her son fight such an Arroyo, a key supporter of Pacquiao, opponent. congratulated him by phone after he "I was nervous in the beginning beat Oscar De La Hoya in Las Vegas. because Oscar De La Hoya was big," "His triumph is again a great she said. "I didn't want to watch and I unifier of Filipinos," Arroyo just ran to the prayer room with my spokesman Jesus Dureza said. "While friends," she said. "Our prayers were he was an underdog to bookies and powerful." matchmakers abroad, he was Pacquiao came up two weight already a winner to all Filipinos." classes to fight De La Hoya and Pacman celebrates after defeating De la Hoya a roar in many parts of the country. stadium in the agricultural city of Fans yelled Pacquiao's name, waved Cauayan, about 175 miles from Philippine flags and threw punches in Manila. the air. "Superb," he said. "That's David Enrique Ancheta, 67, was among slaying Goliath." a some 2,000 fans who jammed a small

Manny Pacquiao and President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo flash the thumbs up sign as Pacquiao presents her a personally-autographed champion's belt during his courtesy call at the Presidential Palace in Manila, Philippines, Wednesday, Dec. 10, 2008.

Amid many problems hounding raised his record to (48-3-2, 36 the country, Pacquiao was a "saving knockouts). De La Hoya (39-6) grace," Executive Secretary Eduardo dropped down to meet him at 147 Ermita said. pounds. Filipinos wave a Philippine flag as they celebrate Manny’s victory while they watch "The winnings of Manny Pacquiao During the bout many of the it beamed live via satellite at the Tondo Sports Complex in Manila, Philippines on always come at the proper time," usually bustling Manila streets were Sunday Dec. 7, 2008. From five-star hotel lounges and army camps to Manila's Ermita said. "We have this economic empty of traffic and police reported burgeoning slums, Filipinos gathered in huge numbers to cheer the country's boxing downturn, suddenly the morale of the few crimes. When De La Hoya icon, as officials say the victory provided the country a momentary respite from Filipino people is promptly boosted." declined to come out after the eighth financial worries. De La Hoya has become the round, the cheering and jeers rose to www.filipinostar.org December 2008 The North American Filipino Star 23

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