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INCORPORATED NEW JERSEY, USA WORLD'S FIRST PHILIPPINE GLOBAL PRINT-ON-DEMAND DAILY NEWSPAPER DINASIAR A Sleeping Chromite Giant? THE PHILIPPINES could become the fifth largest mining power in the world because of the Supreme Court's decision allowing foreign investors to exploit mineral The proposed Dinasiar chromite stockpile and resources in the loading area that can hold thousands of tons of chromite ore for shipment abroad. Designed and country, says conceptualized by Dr. Marolo Alfaro, P. Eng. of the D e p a rtment of Civil Engineering University of PREZ GMA Prez GMA . SEE PAGE 2 Manitoba in Canada. ART BY AMMA Senator Ping Lacson NAME ILLEGAL LOGGERS SEE new opposition leader? PAGE 9 SEE PAGE 7 – DEFENSOR MOTHERLAND Phivolcs list A Woman Of Substance tsunami-prone By Jose Ma. Montelibano areas in R.P. PAGE 8 SUSAN ROCES SEE PAGE 20 PESO-DOLLAR RATE: P56.28 = $1.00 PHILIPPINE MINING SPECIAL REPORT DINASIAR A Sleeping Chromite Giant? said an engineer who was part of the DINASIAR formerly LIWAT by GABRIEL ALFIERO Manila Post Correspondent drilling team. C H R O M I T E MINES is reorg a n i z e d Others told a story of a giant king with American investments to develop and prince of Mt. Redondo where the the 320 hectare 5 patentable mining mining claim specifically located in claim of the original locator Liborio the town of Loreto. "King Tinduay, is Liwat located in Loreto Surigao del the guardian of the chromite ores Norte, Philippines which was registered underneath the land. He will only give and legally acquired under the provi- the chromite to those people who has sions of the U.S. Act of Congress, no trace of greed in their hearts", the known as the Philippine Bill of 1902, medicine man (Arbulario) said. that has the status of an American Grant. A security guard claimed he saw a The Liwat mining claim was giant shadow sitting on top of the acquired by the Liwat family before the chromite stockpile one evening that Philippines became a republic and has prompted him to fire his shotgun almost absolute ownership on the sur- towards the shadow believed to be face rights and mineral rights of the said either King Tinduay or the prince. The property based on the Philippine Bill of folowing morning the security guard's 1902. arms were swollen which he attributed The area has vested rights and it to his action of shooting the giant patentable with the status of a private shadow. property. It was segregated from the Superstitious mining off i c i a l s public domain barring others would-be hired a medicine man to perform a cer- locators from locating and appropriating emony in the place where the giant the minerals found underneath and CIRCA 1960s: President Diosdado Macapagal (LEFT) administering an shadow was shot at to appease King above it the reason why the Liwat fami- oath to the original mining locator Liborio Liwat (RIGHT) as Liberal party Tinduay, the guardian of chromite. ly was granted Private Land Timber official. Witnessing the ceremony is Congressman Constantino "Oguing" The medicine man said that it was License (PLTL) No.1 by the Bureau of Navarro Sr. (CENTER) of Surigao del Norte. the prince, the son of King Tinduay Forestry (now CENRO) under the direc- whom the security guard shot the pre- torship of Jose Viado in the year 1980- vious night. 1986 during the presidency of President With an estimated forecast of 50,000 tons "I saw the medicine man dancing Ferdinand Marcos. uttering spells holding a bamboo stick A person who acquired ownership of high-grade chromite production per quarter that magically shortens and extends over a parcel of private mineral land that served as a negative or affirmative pursuant to the laws then prevailing at the initial stage of mining, it could generate answer from an imaginary person could exclude other persons, even the about 5 million dollars per quarter believed to be King Tinduay whom the State, from exploiting minerals within medicine man directed the questions", his property. Thus, earlier jurisprudence (275,000,000 millions in pesos per quarter). said Paul Gupana, a clan member who held that: A valid and subsisting location witnessed the medicine man's ceremo- of mineral land, made and kept up in A total of P1,100,000,000 per year, a big source ny when he was still a young boy. This accordance with the provisions of the of revenues for the country and to the local young boy now owns a big successful statutes of the United States, has the health product company in Manila. effect of a grant by the United States of government where the mine is located "Surprisingly days after the pig the present and exclusive possession of and chickens were slaughtered during the lands located, and this exclusive the medicine man's ceremony at the right of possession and enjoyment con- Mr. Liborio Liwat, the original locator to clan but also by people living near the file a mining claim over the area during site, the guard's swollen arms were tinues during the entire life of the loca- area. healed", Paul added. tion. the American regime in the Philippines One member of the clan told a story was the old man's encounter of a gold- With the remoteness of the town Under the American doctrine, min- he saw the golden cat in an apple tree in where the mining site is located, peo- eral rights are included in a grant of land en cat roaming around the area long time the middle of the forested section in one ago. ple are still believing on superstitions, by the government. of the 5 patentable mining claim area, legends, dwarfs, giants, angels and The discovery of minerals in the "Maybe it was just an ordinary that lead him to speculate that the brownish, yellowish wild cat being hit witches. Medicine men are still in big ground by one who has a valid mineral motherload is in that area. business in the area. location, perfect his claim and his loca- by intense sunlight that played a visual C o i n c i d e n t a l l y, engineers who trick on Lolo Boriong, an optical illu- tion, not only against third persons but drilled on that claim area discovered a U.S. Geological Survey also against the Government. sion", said one of the clans. big find 30 meters by 28 meters of solid The golden cat is now becoming a According U.S. Geological survey chromite deposit underneath waiting to records, Loreto (Dinagat Island) has Golden cat in the mining area legend by which stories about it have be extracted estimated thousands of been told over and over, added and mod- vast reserves of millions of tons of An old story told over and over by tons of chomite ores. "That find will high -grade lumpy metallurg i c a l the Liwat clans says that what prompted ified not only by members of the Liwat probably lead us to the main ore body",

320 HECTARES 5 PATENTABLE CLAIM 1 CLAIM 2 CLAIM 3 CLAIM 4 CLAIM 5 Acquired under the provisions of the U.S. Act LIWAT MINING CLAIM 64 hectares 64 hectares 64 hectares 64 hectares 64 hectares of Congress, known as the Philippine Bill of 1902.

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 2 chromite with assay sample description in the production of stainless steel, a Cr203% at 53.73 and sandy or fine bright, shiny steel that is strong and chromite at 38.53. resistant to oxidation (rust). Stainless Based on initial scientific mining steel production consumes most of the explorations, analytical results yielded chromium produced annually. high grade chromite contents with 0.03 Chromium is also used to make heat- percent of gold, not insignificant but resisting steel. So-called "superalloys" could add up the value of ore on every use chromium and have strategic mili- loading says American lawyer and tary applications. investor John Howley. Chromium also has some use in the manufacture of certain chemicals. For Dinasiar Expeditionary Team example, chromium-bearing chemicals In August of 2004 Dinasiar sent a are used in the process of tanning prospecting expeditionary team to the leather. Chromium compounds are also island of Dinagat to check and confirm used in the textiles industries to produce the report of the US Geological Survey a yellow color. as well as to survey specifically the 320 Liwat Mining Claim area believed Dinasiar mining site to be heavily loaded with the mineral Loreto where Dinasiar's mining site chromite. is located is in the northern side of the The team composed of Dinasiar mainland of Surigao del Norte. It is one o fficials, foreign investors, mining of the seven towns of Dinagat Island engineers and former scout rangers of which was dubbed by General Douglas the Philippine Army securing the team. McArthur as one of the "three sentinel islands guarding the Central Philippines Standing deposits from the enemies in the Pacific". It is As elaborated by Dinasiar endowed with rich mineral resources Executive Vice President Felipe like aluminous laterite ore, chromite, "Keem" Espejon, based on mining gold, niceliferous laterite, sand and Engr. Esguerra's report. gravel, guano, rock phosphate, lime- stone, and siliceous sand. It is also con- On CLAIM NO. 1 & CLAIM NO. 5 of sidered as an excellent fishing ground. the 5 patentable mining claims, based The municipality is blessed with on initial exploration on the half historical places and natural beauty hectare area on both claims, the area spots like white beaches, waterfalls, hot has positive reserves of approximately springs and clusters of mountains. 458,000 tons divided into three types, These include Polo Beach, Black Beach m e t a l l u rgical 29,725 tons, milling No. 2, Cambinliw Falls and River, grade 348,562 tons and refractory Loreto Desolation Point Light House, grade 80,437 tons. Dinasiar Whispering Mineral Resources mining company chairman Esperanza Natural Spring Resort and Computation of the chromite ore Corazon Liwat Moya (RIGHT) with Philippine President Gloria Macapagal Mega O Beach Resort and Snorkeling reserves was based on actual measure- Arroyo (LEFT). Strips. ment of the two exposed sides of out- crops along the strike length and using week of July 2004. orange-red color of its crystals. It also Dinasiar Mining Company tonnage factor 2.5% for this particular contained another, then-unknown mate- DINASIAR is set-up to develop, deposit. Chromite international prices rial. This material was identified as extract, market and revive the mining The new findings in Claim No 5. According to Arturo Cruz, chromium oxide (CrO3) by Louis- operation in the mining claims of the is presumed to be a portion of the main Dinasiar's Vice President on Planning Nicholas Vauquelin. In 1797, he heated heirs of Liborio Liwat located in Loreto, ore body. Probable ore reserves were and Marketing, average price of this oxide with charcoal to remove the Dinagat Island in the province of not yet comput- chromite in the international market is oxygen (chemists call this reaction a Surigao del Norte. ed including $100.00 per ton on high grades and reducing process) which left the metal Liwat Chromite Mines the prede- those projected between $60 to $80 per ton on lower chromium. cessor of Dinasiar mining company extension of grades. Shortly after Vauquelin's discovery, started in the mining business in the late ore body until With an estimated forecast of a German chemist name Tassaert dis- 1930s. such time that 50,000 tons of high-grade chromite ores covered chromium in an ore that geolo- The mining claim is composed of 5 exploration by production per quarter at the initial gists now call chromite (FeCr2O4, fer- patentable mineral claims of approxi- d i a m o n d stage of mining, it could generate about rous chromic oxide). Chromite forms in drilling will be 5 million dollars per quarter an igneous environment. The name Town of Loreto, Surigao del Norte, completed in (275,000,000 millions in pesos). A total chromium was derived from the Greek Philippines, where the 320 hectare order that addi- of P1,100,000,000 per year, a big source word chroma which means color, in ref- patentable mining claim of the Liwat tional positive of revenues for the country and to the erence to the fact that chromium is family is located. and probable Felipe local government where the mine is known to cause a number of colors in a ore reserves be "Keem" located says Arturo Cruz. variety of materials. For example, the included. Espejon, "Production will surely be doubled green color of emerald is caused by the C L A I M Dinasiar Executive and triplicated presence of very small amounts of NO. 2 contains Vice President once all equip- chromium in the crystal. the mother load ment, facilities The only ore of chromium is the possibly million of tons of chromite. and personnel mineral chromite. United States CLAIM NO. 3 and 4 have yet to be are already in chromium consumption is equivalent to explored. placed in the about 14% of all the chromite ore mining site. We mined each year. In the western hemi- Chromite outcrops expect billions sphere, chromite ore is produced only in Mining Engineer Sam Capistrano, of revenues for Brazil and Cuba; the United States, a geologist who was part of the early the country and Mexico and Canada do not produce exploration team sent to the area in the company," Cruz chromite. (The Stillwater Complex in early 70s and also came back to the said. Montana is the biggest chromium island after 30 years with the Dinasiar " We have Arturo Cruz, deposit in the United States, however it prospecting team, had positively con- been receiving Dinasiar's Vice is not producing chromite ore at this firmed in his report that the area is inquiries and President on time.) By comparison, about 80% of indeed rich in minerals as to the pres- orders of Planning and world production of chromite comes ence of several chromite outcrops and chromite from Marketing from the Philippines, India, also revealed scientifically by the American, and Kazakhstan, Turkey and southern results of the diamond drillings done in Chinese companies ranging from 5,000 Africa. Southern Africa itself produces the area by the early exploration team. tons per month up to 30, 000 tons per about half of this. "You don't have to dig deep for month," Dinasiar Marketing Veep Cruz Geologists estimate that there are chromite, you're standing right on top said. about 11 billion tons of chromium ore of it, one of the largest chromite (chromite) in the world that could be reserves in the world or you can direct- The mineral chromite mined. Most of these resources are ly chip off chromite ores from the sides Chromium is a hard, bluish metallic found in southern Africa and the of the mountain cliffs", Capistrano said. element (Cr) with an atomic number of Philippines. This is enough chromium Also, former Bureau of Mines 24. In the mid-1700's, chemical analysis ore to meet world demand for hundreds director Joel Muyco confirmed the rich of a mineral from Siberia showed that it of years into the future. mineral reserves in the area during the contained lead. This mineral, crocoite Chromium is alloyed (that is, concluded 2004 Mining Summit held in (PbCrO4, lead chromate), was known as mixed with) steel to make it corrosion Surigao City Convention Center last "red lead" because of the beautiful resistant or harder. An example is its use MAP OFDINAGAT ISLAND

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 3 mately 64 hectares each for a total of Two months before, Al Ompod 320 hectares which the area is contained hired a Philippine lawyer, Atty. Tony inside the proposed Mineral Production Inventado to do a research on the Liwat Sharing Agreement (MPSA) in con- mining claim at the Bureau of Mines formity with the Philippine 1995 and the lawyer discovered that the min- Mining Act. ing license application of Mrs. Corazon The original Liborio Liwat Mining Liwat Moya was denied by the Bureau Claim covering about 320 hectares was of Mines on the ground that she was acquired under the provisions of the Act nowhere to be found and so bureau offi- of the US Congress dated July 1, 1902 cials assumed Mrs. Moya lack interest (PhilippineBill of 1902 for short). to mine. "Mrs. Corazon Liwat Moya The mining claim has confirmed- was not given due process in this case" standing deposits of thousands of tons said Atty. Harly Bajamunde. of metallurgical high grade chromite An American lawyer recommended and other minerals such as gold, nickel to file a motion for reconsideration once and platinum based on actual scientific the team arrived in the Philippines only exploration. to find out upon arrival that the Liwat mining claim based on the Philippine Mining history Bill of 1902 was overlapped by a claim Liwat Mining Claim was originally of another company called Rapid City located by Liborio Liwat in 1934 based owned by a certain Veronica Lee. on the Philippine Bill of 1902 during Presented with a situation the presi- MEETINGINCONGRESS: (Left to Right) Manila Post lawyer Atty. Tony Inventado, the American regime. In the same year dent of Dinasiar called up via long dis- American lawyer and investor John Howley, Congressman Mat Defensor and chromite outcrops were discovered in tance Mrs. Corazon Liwat Moya in the Dinasiar president Al Ompod. MANPOSTPHOTO the area before the Philippines became a United States who in turn instructed Al republic.. Ompod to find their former lawyer, Mat Liwat Chromite Mines was operat- Defensor whom Mrs. Moya said is very ed by COMPANIA MARITIMA before familiar with the patentable mining the Japanese war. According to reliable claim of the Liwat family based on the sources this company employed purely Philippine Bill of 1902. u n d e rground (tunneling) mining and Dinasiar team composed of made several shipments of chromite ore. Dinasiar president Al Ompod, John In the latter part of 1976, another H o w l e y, the American lawyer and company MIDAS RESOURCES INC., investor, Atty. Tony Inventado, filipino resumed the mining operation and made lawyer and Maj. Tom Alfaro, Dinasiar shipments for Marc Rich estimated to security director met with Atty. Mat be 10,000 metric tons of metallurgical Defensor in Congress. Defensor is now grade (high grade) of chromite with an a congressman in the third district of assay of 53% Cr203. Quezon City and the father of the pres- Subsequent shipment of thousands ent DENR secretary, Mike Defensor. of tons, in 1981 by Asia Chrome Inc. was made, also for Marc Rich. Representing lawyers Production stopped shortly after the sec- On the preparation of the necessary ond shipment due to declining chromite legal permits and licences for the min- market. ing operation, Dinasiar's lead legal team Mining operations resumed in 1987 is represented by A t t y. Harly in small-scale initiated by the claim Bajamunde in Manila. owner through Ms. Corazon Moya, who Other lawyers in coordination with has an operating agreement with the the lead legal team are namely: Atty. claimant, Liborio Liwat, her father. The Tony Inventado in Manila, Atty. Danny DINASIAR FIELD OFFICE in Loreto in the island of Dinagat, Surigao del Norte. small-scale production was locally sold Menor in Surigao City, A t t o r n e y s . to Ferrochrome and other local buyers. Salvador Ruiz and Ruben Curasa both Joel Requillo, Dinasiar Community A ffairs Director said that they have industrial base, economic planners said. from Butuan City. "China is a potentially huge invest- Former lawyer Mat Defensor found already an action plan in placed for the community and people who will be ment. If the Philippines promulgates In the 1990s Liwat Chromite Mines Area security proper policies, it has a great opportuni- partnered with Purr Marketing, owned As per request by the American affected by the mining operations. "We are for the welfare of the community ", ty of attracting China, which has foreign by Atty. Mat Defensor who was intro- investors on security of the area, exchange reserves of more than 400 bil- duced by then DENR Secretary Victor Dinasiar company delegated Major Requillo said. Dinasiar's Cyrus Dalman, wife lion dollars," economic analysts said. Ramos to Mrs. Corazon Liwat Moya. Tomasito Alfaro, a former Scout Ranger "We must take advantage of this A t t y. Mat Defensor started as a in the Philippine Army to organize a Carmen, Joel Requillo and wife Liza were responsible in raising the major opportunity because other countries are lawyer of the Liwat Chromite Mines special security force to secure the min- eager to attract China's later on became an investor and partner ing claim area from trespassers, illegal fundings in New Jersey for the investment in their mining in buying, selling and mining chromite mining operators and "ukay-ukay" min- sites." ore in Dinagat Island servicing the local ers (local term for small scale miners) Dinasiar prospecting expeditionary unit Economic analysts chromite market in Cagayan de Oro usually backed up by local politicians added that "the growth of the City particularly Horizon Mining Corp. and area warlords. sent last August to the Philippines. mining industry is a critical owned by Engr. Rolando de Guzman, Liaison office had been set-up ingredient in inducing Ferrochrome smelters in the Philippines by the army major in an old ancestral China is interested greater economic growth, and American company called Philipp house in the heart of the town of Loreto Economic plan- attracting more investments, Brothers (Phibro), with Mr. Rolly de in the island of Dinagat in preparation creating more jobs and Guzman as their R.P. representative. of permits and licenses to be submitted ners said the mining sector could emerge reducing poverty particular- Phibro now called Metallia USA, based to the local authorities. ly in the rural areas." in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Dinasiar Administrative Director, as the main engine of economic growth Mining has a "multi- In June 2004, Mrs. Corazon Liwat Cyrus Dalman, a former Philippine plier effect" of six times on Moya, the legal heir of the original army captain said, "We received com- in the country, now that the Supreme the economy, analysts said. claimant Liborio Liwat legally entrust- munications from big mining compa- Dinasiar Community And at potential value-addi- ed the mining claim to a nephew at the nies Philippine Court allowed for- Affairs Director Joel eign investors to tap tion of 300 billion pesos Philippine Consulate in New York City and foreign Requillo and wife Liza. annually, mining can add an witnessed by Consul Lourdes C. based express- its vast potential. The sector's "poten- incremental economic activ- Legaspi. ing their inten- ity of 1.8 trillion pesos or 36 percent of Presently, Liwat Chromite Mines tions to join tial wealth" is placed at 840 billion dol- lars, or 10 times the country's annual GDP, economic planners said. has evolved into a company called Dinasiar com- "We foresee the industry to generate DINASIAR under the stewardship of pany in devel- gross domestic product and 15 times its total foreign debt. employment of about 10,000, excluding US trained business managers headed oping the Liwat multiplier effect like increased power by Al Ompod, the president of the com- chromite min- Philippine economic planners said, foreign investments were badly needed consumption. Aside from the benefits of pany and the nephew of the chairman ing area in environmental and social expenditures Corazon Liwat Moya. Dinagat island, to supplement the meager capital resources in the country, since the full arising from an improved investment In August of 2004, Al Ompod went also lots of climate in mining, we also foresee taxes home to the the Philippines with inquiries from development of one large-scale mining site alone would require funding of to increase by 50 percent of both the American investors interested to revive F i l i p i n o - national and local governments," the mining operation of the Liwat Americans pro- between 850 million to 1.2 billion dol- Major Tom Alfaro, lars, which cannot be possibly raised by Philippine economic planners added. Chromite Mines under a new company fessionals inter- Dinasiar Security called Dinasiar with an initial order of ested to invest local investors. Director and Chinese investors have shown RP could be world's 5th mining power 20,000 tons from a Florida chromite with Dinasiar Liaison Officer The Philippines could become the buyer, Mr. Zimmerman. venture". "great interest" in Philippines' mining industry to support China's growing fifth largest mining power in the world

4 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 because of the Supreme Court's decision Metallia USA, Ivanhoe Mines Ltd. of allowing foreign investors to exploit Canada, Planalto Trading, Inc., mineral resources in the country, chromite shipper to China, Samgang of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo Korea and other international compa- said. nies who are interested to buy chromites "We are poised for a strong eco- ores by the thousands of tons on a nomic takeoff never seen in the recent monthly basis, also these companies are past," the President said in a speech watching, monitoring and waiting for before local officials attending the 14th the resolution of our licensing at the general assembly of the League of Philippine Bureau of Mines", Mrs. Municipalities of the Philippines at the Moya said. " The market is now ready Manila Hotel. "We should not be poor." for Dinasiar", and we are just a license Ms Arroyo mentioned the country's away from extracting the mineral ranking based on deposits of its precious chromite underneath our property". metals -- No. 3 in gold, No. 4 in copper, "We are interested and attracted to No. 5 in nickel and No. 6 in chromite Dinasiar's area chromite deposits deposits. because of its high assay reading Cr203 She got the numbers after an inter- –53%", Metallia USASr.Vice President action with the prime ministers of min- Rafe Safier said. ing countries -- Canada and Australia -- whose companies have been waiting for Meeting with Rapid City a favorable Supreme Court decision to DINASIAR PROSPECTING EXPEDITIONARY TEAM: (Left to Right) Mining Engr. Sam According to Mrs. Moya , Bureau pursue their exploration projects in the Capistrano, Dinasiar president Al Ompod and Dinasiar Security Director Major of Mines Director Horacio Ramos country. Tom Alfaro at the mining site. Behind are the old stockpiles of lumpy and offered to set up a meeting between her "Our mining potential is ten times sandy chromite ores. MANPOSTPHOTO and Rapid City president, Mrs. Veronica our annual gross national product. It can Lee and a certain Mr. Leon Roldan in easily wipe out our foreign debts and yet application. Why should I be punished the hope to sort out the problems. leave more for future generations," the poured into the mining industry, "the "The meeting was set on the 12th of rural areas will experience a significant or otherwise burden for the transgres- President said. sion of a law of which I had no notice November but when our lawyer, Atty. boost in jobs and productivity, plus a Bajamunde called up the Bureau of strong surge in infrastructure develop- whatsoever, it is an extreme injustice on Sound mining practices my part". Mines office to confirm of my atten- The President assured the public ment." dance of the meeting, a secretary at the She said the full development of the Ms. Moya explained, "I was able to that mining should not be feared but comply my application of the Mineral bureau by the name of Mrs. Chat embraced because it would "discourage mining industry would "come hand in Meneses told our lawyer that Rapid hand with the full protection of the envi- Production Sharing Agreement prior to the poor from ravaging just to survive the enactment of the Philippine Mining City people could not be reached for and mitigate the deadliest disasters." ronment and a sturdy umbrella of social confirmation of the said meeting", Mrs. and economic returns for the communi- Act of 1995 during the Directorship of She said the government was com- Joel Muyco, who gave me advice to Moya said. mitted to "fully enforce responsible and ties especially the indigenous peoples." "God bless the Supreme Court. A publish the MPSA application in the environmentally sound mining prac- newspaper of general circulation for Motion for Reconsideration tices" to ensure the safety of workers negative decision would have been dis- In December of 2004 Dinasiar pres- astrous to the Philippine economy, " two consecutive months, fully paid pub- and the preservation of natural lication", ident Al Ompod and his Vice President resources. Environment Secretary Michael T. on Marketing and Planning, Arturo Defensor said. "I inherited the mining rights from "We are now in the 21st century and my birth father, a native of Loreto who Cruz tapped Manila lawyer, Atty. Harly all these new mining technologies will Benjamin Philip Romualdez, presi- Bajamunde to formally file a motion for dent of Chamber of Mines of the acquired the mining claim before the certainly make our mining sustainable," Philippine republic was born , I paid the reconsideration to the Bureau of Mines said the President. Philippines, said the mining industry's with regards to the questionable denial growth and the country's mineral pro- real estate taxes for the land since time She noted that host communities immemorial I have spent thousands of of the licensing application of Mrs. would benefit from the entry of mining duction would finally increase with the Corazon Liwat Moya. landmark decision. pesos for the preparation of the Report firms that would pay taxes and duties to of the MPSA, and the Environmental The lawyer stated that the Bureau's the provincial government down to the Impact, which to my regret, the engi- denial was anchored on the alleged barangay (village) levels. Questionable license denial "extreme lack of interest" of Ms. Moya and mining claim overlapping neers preparing it for the processing and Mining is the only sector that could approval asked me five million pesos to pursue the MPSA application and generate investments and dollar exports Dinasiar chairman, Mrs. Corazon non-compliance of Section 8 of DENR Liwat Moya, the legal and rightful heir (P5,000,000) and my pocket cannot that would enable the government to warrant the amount," Mrs. Moya said. "I Memoradum Order 93-34 resulting, as it achieve an economic growth rate of at of the original locator Liborio Liwat had is, in the denial of Moya's MPSA appli- been working for more than thirty years decided to go to the United States to least 7 percent in the medium term, look for sound foreign investors. I was cation on February 26, 2001. according to a foreign think tank associ- trying to get sound investors and oper- The copy of the ORDER O F ators who could mine the area to its introduced by one of my nephews to an ated with The Economist. interested lawyer- f i n a n c i e r, Mr. John DENIAL from the Bureau of Mines maximum production. signed by Director Horacio Ramos was So far, according to Mrs. Moya, Howley, who came to the Philippines Now is the time together with Dinasiar president, my personally and officially received by the The Philippine Business Leaders since the day she was heavily involved applicant, Ms. Moya only last on the 320 hectare mining claim based nephew last August of 2004 to see the Forum also noted that the high court legality of the said mining property". December 6, 2004. reversal of its previous ruling limiting on the Philippine Bill of 1902, an esti- Lawyer Bajamunde, noted that the mated 30,000 to 40, 000 tons of Upon discovery of the mining claim mining to Filipinos could not have come overlapping problems, A m e r i c a n non- receipt of the Bureau's 3 letter at a better time. chromite only had been extracted from notices to Mrs. Moya is not a valid and the site, small percentage compare to investor told Mrs. Moya to come home "Now is the time. Chromite, Copper to the Philippines to clear the mess of strong ground for the denial of license. and gold prices are at the highest for the recorded confirmed deposit of The lawyer stated that the requirements 480,000 tons of lumpy and refractory Rapid City Realty and Development several years and India and China are Corp. overlapping the Liwat Mining in sending these notices in pursuant to predicted to keep chromite and copper chromite on the one hectare area only, the Bureau's Memorandum Order No. not to mention the rest of the 320 property. prices high through the next decade," "I agreed to go home and arrived in 99-34 were not properly complied sub- the Forum said. hectare mining site which has yet to be stantialy to constitute as ground for explored. the Philippines from the US, Sept. 1, Foreign business groups, local 2004", Mrs. Moya said. "On September denial. mining companies and President Gloria The Philippine Bureau of Mines "We have dissected laboriously the denied the MPSA application of Ms. 3, 2004, I was able to talk personally to Macapagal-Arroyo hailed the Supreme our former mining claim lawyer, Matias records of Moya's application with the Court decision, saying this will help Moya on the basis that she was not able Bureau of Mines and Geosciences and to comply additional requirements for Defensor at his residence, asking him to boost the economy. help me return the mining property from came out with incomplete detail and "The Supreme Court has rendered a her MPSA application denominated as made to understand that there is another AMPSA No. SMR-013-96. Rapid City company". decision that firmly upholds the nation- "How come the Bureau of Mines record available with other sections of al interest. As the fifth mineralized Bureau of Mines claimed Ms, Moya the Bureau but not available to us", was duly notified by series of registered officials allowed such illegal overlap- country in the world with a close prox- ping on a solid legitimate mining claim Atty. Bajamunde said in his letter. imity to the biggest market for minerals, mails sent to her but returned to the "We have observed, however, in the Bureau of Mines office marked of which records are kept at the bureau China, the Philippines is poised for a since the 1930s", Mrs. Moya added. course of our examinations of Moya's strong economic takeoff based on rein- "addressee moved no forwarding MPSA record, that the Bureau do not address", leading the Bureau of Mines "Something is very wrong going on at vigorated mining industry," Ms Arroyo the Bureau". have a definitive mode of mailing letters said . o fficials to presume that Ms. Moya with clients, mails were sent by ordinary extremely lack interest to pursue the According to Mrs. Moya, they have said application now the American investment money, SC spoken with wisdom heavy equipment ready to go, standing According U.S. Geological "The high court has spoken with "I have already filed my legal protest to the Bureau of Mines on the by at an equipment yard somewhere in survey records, Loreto wisdom and joins the other great powers Quezon City and most of all, they have of government in doing what is best for overlapping and licensing denial to put (Dinagat Island) in the on record that I am still alive and well, standing offers from American and the nation and people at this time of Chinese buyers willing to buy chromite Philippines has vast challenge and opportunity," said the still very much interested to mine the area through Dinasiar", said Mrs. Moya. ores between 5,000 tons to 30,000 tons reserve of millions of tons President. per month. The President said that as the bil- "The Bureau of Mines did not give me due process in denying my MPSA "My nephew, the president of of high -grade lions of dollars in new investments Dinasiar had established contacts with metallurgical chromite.

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 5 mail and some instances by registered Geosciences presently headed by mail. In both cases, proof of mailing of Director Horacio Ramos, a Career mail matter were not shown on record. Executive Service Officer III, was LORETO HISTORY In one instance, letter sent purportedly appointed Director of the Bureau of to Ms. Moya showed an attached reg- Mines and Geosciences in 1996, and has by ODON C. GALIDO istry return card but did not indicate the since held the post. An advocate of sus- name of addressee or the name of Moya tainable development through responsi- as addressee", Atty. Bajamunde said. "In ble mineral resources development, On the northern water of the Surigao del Norte mainland lies Dinagat the absence of internal rules on the mat- Ramos was among those who supported Island dubbed by Gen. Douglas MacArthur as one of the "three sentinel- ter, we can only invoke the 1997 Rules the enactment of the Mining Act of 1995 islands guarding the Central Philippines from the enemies in the Pacific." of Civil Procedure in suppletory and was part of the crafting of its imple- Together with Dinagat as the first class established municipality in this nature", the lawyer added. menting rules and regulations, which island were four other towns, among which was Loreto, originally called The lawyer also reproduced and has also undergone a series of improve- "Mabua" because of the ever-foaming river that runs right into the heart of sent the pertinent provisions of Rules 13 ment under his watch. the community. Boholano settlers first established Loreto as early as 1847. of the Rules of Court to the Bureau of Major Manila newspaper reports In 1881, its name metamorphosed into its present name, Loreto, in honor of Mines and requested that the Moya's (Philippine Star, Manila Standard, the wife of the governor at that time. MPSA application deserves a second Manila Bulletin) quoted mining execu- Created as a municipality in 1898, Loreto was reduced to a barrio in look. tives Isagani Aguinaldo of Ta n d e m 1902 after the American soldiers razed it to the ground. However, it regained "Ms. Moya's interest to the MPSA Mining Corporation and Manuel its township in 1919 through the untiring efforts of its civic-spirited leaders. application is manifested unequivocably Pasetes of Aegis Mining Corporation as The municipality were populated by Boholanos who were the original by her attendance to the seminar on saying that the minerals industry has not settlers; Leyteños, Cebuanos, Samareños and other immigrants followed Environmental Impact sponsored by the contributed significantly to the econo- suit. Bureau in 1995 as shown by the my due to unabated corruption in the Copra had been most important export and lumbering an important attached certificate of attendance, " Bureau of Mines. Atty. Bajamunde argued. industry. Loreto is situated along a coastal plain, and fish abound in its Employees of the Bureau of Mines waters. "I just hope that some Bureau of and Geosciences defended their chief, Mines officials did not manipulate the Director Horacio C. Ramos, saying the In the lowlands grow the tikug grasses utilized then and now by the sending of Letter of Notices to Mrs issues against him were unfair, irrespon- womenfolk as materials in making mats which are in great demand because Moya causing it not to be received by sible and apparently mere orchestration of the fine workmanship and durability. The local weavers have learned the her, and I hope also there is no external of certain quarters. embroidery designs of the well-known Basey mat-makers. On the rocky influence or fraud on the denial and ille- "Perceived or imagined corruption mountains from as far as Omasdang near the Desolation point, to the south- gal overlapping of claim by Rapid City at the Bureau of Mines should be com- ern hills of Sinaongag, now Navarro, are found such rich minerals as over the legal Liwat mining claim, pletely erased so as to give assurance to chromite, manganese, copper, coal and the like. because, if these factors are present, the prospective foreign investors to Other sources of income then were the hard wood exported to different these officials are liable within the come and invest their millions in R.P. places in the country and the well-known species of orchids, the so- called bounds of the law", Dinasiar president mining industry", said one player in the "aristocrats of the woodland" such as the mariposa or butterfly orchids, the said. "We will know the truth after our mining industry. "With the new govern- tiger, dendrubium anespum, dendrobium superbum, which were abundantly due deligence legal and media investi- ment of President Gloria Macapagal found in the forests of the municipality. gation on this matter". Arroyo, investors are hopeful that the president will step up on the total clean- Source: 1970 Souvenir Program of Philippine Public Schools President Diosdado Macapagal up of the Mining Bureau to attract Inter-scholastic Athletic Association Meet (PPSIAA) and the original locator Liborio Liwat more foreign investments". "I am seeking an audience with "We have been inviting investors President Gloria Macapagal A r r o y o . after the Supreme Court ruling (which Presiden GMA's father the late upheld the Mining Act), but it would be President Diosdado Macapagal was a a turn-off for them if they come to the political friend of my father, Liborio Philippines and they will encounter cor- Liwat, Sr.", Mrs. Moya told this publi- rupt officials and employees right at the cation. "During the visit of President gateway of mining in RP," a Filipino Diosdado Macapagal in our small town American mining observer said. of Loreto, Surigao del Norte in the "It would be also dissapointing for 1960s, President Diosdado Macapagal foreign investors when they come to the with Congressman Constantino Navarro Philippines and suddenly mining rules convinced my father to switch party are changed midstream", Chamber of from Nacionalista Party to Liberal Mines executive director, Nelia C. Party, and and my father was inducted Halcon said. "Stable mining rules and by the president himself of which proofs regulations are very important clinchers and old photos I furnished to this publi- for investors who are choosing whether LORETO is a 5th class municipality with an annual budget of only cation". to invest in the Philippines or in other P16 million, P14 million of which comes from its Internal Revenue "Because of the long delay of the countries". Allotment (IRA) and P2 million from local taxes. Bureau of Mines to resolve such simple Some 12,277 hectares (has.) or 57 percent of its total area of legal matters on our mining claim, I P r e s i d e n t i a l 21,587 hectares are covered by fifteen mining claims to exploit its have no other recourse but to ask intervention rich deposits of gold, chromite and aluminum. President Arroyo to intervene for the When asked It lies 40 nautical miles or three to six hours by motorized good of the community and country what will wake ferryboat from Surigao City. who will be most benefited on our min- Dinasiar up It is the northernmost of seven municipalities in Dinagat Island, ing operations," said Mrs. Moya. itself a part of Surigao del Norte, the north-easternmost province from its deep in Mindanao. PHOTO: COURTESY OF THE GUMATO FAMILY "If given an audience with s l u m b e r , President GMA, I will tell her every- Dinasiar presi- thing about our patentable mining claim dent Al Ompod including my sad plight with our Bureau family, for the community and for the neath the land". was quick to country to be the beneficiary of this of Mines", Mrs. Moya added. a n s w e r , "I am sure the president will listen mineral called chromite underneath our Dinasiar still sleeping " P r e s i d e n t i a l land", Al added. to an old woman in the mining industry, intervention". ALOMPOD, A geologist, who actually partici- I believe the strong leadership of An elderly man who lives near the pated in the exploration during Midas "We hope it Dinasiar president mining site uttered profound words to President GMA will have an urgent would be the Resources operations in the Liwat min- positive action particularly in cleaning the expeditionary unit during the ing claim area in the 1970s, recalls he present president of the country if not prospecting trip, "Many people tried to up the Bureau of Mines to save the com- the next president", Al Ompod said. had the chance to read the geological atose and beleaguered mining industry", land grab the area from the Liwat fami- and evaluation report of the previous Dinasiar president Al Ompod is a ly, politicians, lawyer, doctor, business- Mrs. Moya said. "We are trying our best U.S. based businessman and a fine artist mining operator. He said, on condition to resolve this problem right at the men, influential people, but they were of anonymity, "MOTHERLOAD is in by profession, graduated Most all unsuccesful", the old man said. Bureau of Mines level as well as we are Outstanding Fine Arts student from the the area". also willing to go the long way, perhaps, "Companies mined the area but nothing Until the Bureau of Mines resolves University of the Philippines in 1979. significant deposits were extracted from congressional investigation, senate When asked what made him inter- the licensing and overlapping problem investigation or maybe to the court sys- the site and previous mining operations of the Liwat mining claim, Dinasiar will ested in going into mining, he answered were stopped because of legal problems tem up to the highest court of the land. and explained jokingly , "CHROMITE remain A SLEEPING CHROMITE According to Mr. Corazon Liwat and family squabbles". G I A N T says mining Engineer Sam derived its name from the Greek word "Perhaps God only wants the per- Moya she had already signed legal CHROMA which means COLOR" Al Capistrano. papers for the president of the company son who has the pure heart and clean explained. "Maybe, God is telling me to hands could mine the wealth of this to continue the fight just in case some- paint a new landscape using chromite as thing happens to her in the future. land", the old man added. "For so many When asked what will wake a new medium instead of oil". years, we have been waiting for that "Seriously, I want my Aunt to taste person who will distribute the wealth of Dinasiar up , company Gateway to Mining in R.P. the fruits of her labor on perfecting our president was quick Considered the gateway to mining this land to the family, to the communi- 320 hectares patentable mining claim. I ty, to the country and most of all honor in R.P. is the Bureau of Mines and hope and pray the time is ripe for the to answer, and thank God for the treasure under- "PRESIDENTIAL INTERVENTION".

6 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 TOP STORIES Senator Ping Lacson new opposition leader?

NEW YORK–Based on informal ran- dom e-mail surveys among Filipinos abroad, they unanimously chose Sen. Ping Lacson as the logical new opposi- tion leader. Susan Roces and Loren Legarda were also considered. The two women, Susan Roces and Loren Legarda eyed to replace the action king Fernado Poe Jr. are said possible candidates to carry on the electoral protest filed by the late Poe, and eventu- ally even win the presidency. In the suit, Poe, Prez Gloria Arroyo's closest rival in the May elec- tions, claimed that the opposition was cheated of victory and that the elections were marred by massive fraud and cheating. Opinion, however, was divided on whether Roces and Legarda could pick up where Poe left off, or if the electoral protest itself was moot and academic in the view of FPJ's death. Lawyer Demares Raval said the action star's electoral protest against Prez GMA is "non transferrable" to Susan Roces and would be possible only through "extra judicial measures." DINNERINTERVIEW: Opposition Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson with Manila Post staff at Mario's Restaurant in Quezon City. With actor Fernando Poe Jr. dead Beside Sen. Lacson on the right row are Manila Post president Al Ompod and Manila Post lawyer Atty. Tony Inventado. and buried, the political opposition is Manpost Photo moving to unite its ranks, at least in the Senate both members of the minority and bitter ally to Gloria Macapagal Arroyo. from the bloc. Senate Minority Leader A q u i l i n o rivals since the last election, to work Pimentel stressed that the opposi- Angara, president of Laban ng Pimentel Jr., called on Senators together." tion would continue "with its advocacy Demokratikong Pilipino (LDP) was Edgardo Angara and Panfilo Lacson, I am asking Edong (Angara) and to protect the rights of the people.""We one of the figures who convinced Poe Ping (Lacson)-they may not love one would also try to go about our duties as to run as the opposition standard-bearer a n o t h e r-to please stay put with the best as we can," he said.Poe's defeat in in the May 10 elections. minority and vote for the interests and the polls has been blamed on the split in Poe's deciding to run shove out lac- rights of the people," Pimentel said in a the opposition after Lacson ran for son as the united opposition candidate. phone interview. president as an independent candidate Lacson went on his own and man- The minority bloc in the Senate has and Angara's group supported Poe. aged to finish a respectable third place. nine members; the majority has 14. Lacson had been a member of the Lacson said his conflict with He said he made the appeal in view opposition Laban ng Demokratikong Fernando Poe is now "water under the of the death of Poe, a popular movie Pilipino which Angara heads.It was not bridge," saying he was saddened and actor and presidential candidate in the the first time that Pimentel sought a surprised by the actor's demise. May election, after a stroke. Poe was reconciliation between Angara and Opposition leaders are presently in buried at the Manila North Cemetery. Lacson. negotiations to find a new strong leader. Pimentel was responding to the Several months ago, the minority Filipinos abroad says it is Sen. query on what would happen to the leader asked them to stop their tirades Panfilo "Ping" Lacson. opposition with the death of Poe, who against one another. The animosity The masses in the Philippines says ran under the opposition Koalisyon ng intensified after a minority meeting that it is Susan Roces, the widow of presi- Sen. Panfilo "Ping" Lacson Nagkakaisang Pilipino but lost eventu- saw Angara seeking Lacson's ouster dential candidate Fernando Poe Jr. FPJ election protest to continue

MANILA–A staunch supporter of the sent to gather two to three million sig- Cadsawan said. late Fernando Poe Jr. is determined to natures in November to pressure SC to He said the group has a “burning pursue the actor’s protest while gather- speed up the resolution of Poe’s peti- desire” to seek the truth. ing two to three million signatures to tion. “It does not matter if Poe is already urge the Supreme Court to speed up the “We will be presenting the signa- dead. We just want to let history know case. tures in February. We are hoping that the truth,” he said. Food, Peace, Justice and Progress we may be able to convince justices He denied lobbying for former sen- Movement (FPJPM) president Boots and request a conference with them,” ator and vice presidential bet Loren Cadsawan vowed “to seek justice and he said. Legarda to replace Poe. truth for Poe.” Cadsawan was the first Cadsawan said FPJPM has already “We really don’t care about the person to convince Poe to seek presi- gathered over 500,000 signatures. welfare of any vice presidential bets. dency in 2003. He added Poe posted a bond of P50 We have placed on our top priority the “ We are bent on pursuing the million to P60 million before SC, and truth behind the alleged defeat of Poe,” protest despite the lack of interest of promised to solicit financial support if he said. Ms. Susan Roces on the absence of a the amount is not enough. He said he finds it very difficult to petitioner. We will take the steps in “We can again ask P1 from each accept that Poe was already gone. February,” he said. supporter just like what we did when “I am greatly affected by Poe’s He claimed Poe gave him the con- we tried to convince Poe to run,” untimely and sudden death,” he said. FPJ: Winner or loser?

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 7 TOP STORIES RP is new Phivolcs list tourist haven MANILA–FOREIGN tourists have tsunami-prone begun to set their sights on the Philippines as the new tourist destina- tion in the aftermath of the tsunami dis- aster in South Asian region which killed about 150,000. This was bared by Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Ace Durano. Durano said that prime hotels in areas in R.P. tourist destinations as Boracay have noted marked increase of bookings fol- Tsunami death toll could top 200,000 says Red Cross lowing the catastrophic tsunami that killed many foreign tourists in prime MANILA–The public was warned to be tourist spots in Indonesia, Malaysia, Sri ready and watchful for any unusual Lanka, Sumatra and neighboring Asian occurrences in coastal areas for an countries. incoming tsunami. The DOTchief noted that at the end The country has many areas prone of 2004, tourist arrivals reached about to tsunami disasters, said Raymundo 2.3 million mark. Punongbayan, former head of the Compared to other Asian countries Philippine Institute of Volcanology and which spent up to $1 billion budget for Seismology (Phivolcs) and a consultant marketing and promotions generating of National Disaster Coordinating about 10 million tourists or double our Council (NDCC). number of tourist arrivals, Durano said These include -- among others -- that the Philippines still has the edge coastal areas inside Manila Bay, Infanta with its rich tourist destination and cost- and other towns in Quezon as well as e fficient strategy wherein a leaner the provinces of Ilocos, Palawan, , budget of about $2 per tourist could Surigao, La Union and Negros, generate more tourists spending about Punongbayan said. $98 per day. He advised the public, especially Durano said that apart from those living in the coastlines, to be TIDAL WAVE!: This amateur video footage taken Sunday, Dec. 26, shows a tidal wave Boracay, the tourist operators are bull- watchful for signs of an incoming tsuna- several meters high smashing a seawall in Penang, Malaysia. Tidal waves starting ish of gaining increased tourist arrivals mi. from west of Sumatra, Indonesia, caused by an 8.9-magnitude earthquake, raced in such spots as Subic, Palawan, Cebu, The signs that tsunamis are coming across the Indian Ocean to slam the coasts of the Maldives, Sri Lanka, and India in Samal Island, Bohol and Negros include the fast withdrawal of the sea, the west and Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia in the east. (Reuters) Oriental. exposing the sea floor. "These are defi- THE Department of Tourism (DoT) nite signs of tsunami," Punongbayan Romy Ta b a n l a r, Phivolcs earth- ties to take all necessary precautions to has reported a remarkable growth of said. quake scientist, said the earthquakes ensure the safety of coastal residents, 24.3 percent in visitor arrivals from Based on NDCC records, the coun- were not connected with the massive adding "the public should remain January 1 to October 31, 2004 with the try experienced tsunamis in the past, as underwater quake that caused tsunamis watchful for aftershocks of the earth- US market continuing to supply the in the Moro Gulf earthquake in 1976 in Southeast Asia that claimed over quake and signs of a tsunami." (PNS) biggest number of visitors to the that generated a tsunami which killed 165,000 lives and still rising as of Philippines despite the negative travel about 8,000 people. In 1994, a tsunami presstime . advisories warning US citizens against also hit Mindoro island, killing hun- Deputy Majority House Leader Del visiting the country. dreds. YOUR HELP BRINGS HOPE! American tourists accounted for de Guzman, Representatives Prospero Donate to the Tsunami Victims. " H i s t o r i c a l l y, we had many Pichay of Surigao del Sur and You may send check payable to: 20.9 percent of the 1.861 million visitor tsunamis," Punongbayan said, citing Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado of Bulacan MANILA POST WORLDWIDE INC. traffic last year, according to DOT. Last plenty of local trenches under the sea -- called on authorities to concentrate on P.O. Box 179, Millburn, NJ 07041 year's total tourist arrival was posted at like the Cotabato trench and Manila tsunami-prone coastal areas. Attn: Tsunami Relief Effort more than 1.5 million. trench -- that created tsunamis in the In a statement, they called for con- Tel: (908) 265-6290 D O T Annual A c c o m p l i s h m e n t past. tinued public vigilance and for authori- E-mail: [email protected] Report was submitted to Malacanang, Manila Bay, La Union and Ilocos will be affected by any earthquakes that originate from the Manila trench, he said, adding Palawan and Negros islands could be affected by movements More Filipinos feared dead in Thailand in the Manila-Negros trench. Any movement in the Cotabato trench can affect Surigao as well as Philippines not giving up on missing Pinoys other areas in Mindanao, Punongbayan said. MANILA–The Philippine government Carpio Asuncion, Catherine Prieto, Pilar Ann Bagoyo, Theresa Joy Roxas, He said that in the 9 magnitude is not giving up on the missing Filipinos Marbella Prieto, Marco Sangil, Virginia Rachel Escoton, Lea Reyes, Emily earthquake that struck Southeast Asia, in Phuket even as the Thai government Pasamonte Cruz, Charlie M. Caringal, Balao, Marian Pasag, Flordeliza the country was spared because the has called off its rescue operations. Rosemarie Phi King Ang Tan, Beverly (Dianne) Isla, Allan Ortega, Darryl Gay island of Sumatra in Indonesia and the "The Secretary (Alberto Romulo) Tan, Jean Caringal, Gelver A. Barranta, S. Juarez, Alvin H. Bay, and Michelle peninsulas of Malaysia and Thailand said that the Department and the Novie Navarette, Rolando Lagao, Faustino. absorbed the destructive seismic waves. Philippine Embassy (in Bangkok) will Florante Encarnacion, Jay Wi l l i a m Asuque said Noel Faustino, hus- Meanwhile, an earthquake that reg- put in high gear the efforts in accounting Decayco, and Maria Mediatri Manding. band of Michelle Faustino, who had ear- istered Intensity 3 shook Bataan a day for all Filipinos affected by tsunami as Of the said number four were earlier lier been reported missing, called up the after the tsunami in Indonesia with the well as in assisting the biggest global repatriated while 11 are scheduled to be department to report that his wife had epicenter believed in the area around relief ever in the recent history, " sent back home. been found alive. Olongapo City. The earthquake was Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) The 23, on the other hand, were The DFA maintained that as of last triggered in the Manila trench. spokesman Gilbert Asuque yesterday identified as Margaret Ang Choi, Dario report only five Filipinos were con- An Intensity 5 quake with the epi- told reporters in a press briefing. Banua Maniago, Jovito Masaga, Cherry firmed dead in the tsunami tragedy. center located in Mati, Davao Oriental, Meanwhile the DFA said 15 Panahon, Celeste Panahon, Celeste They are Sharleen May Ang Tan, Ivy also shook Davao City. The source was Filipino survivors have been repatriated Panahon, Joselito A. Balbutin, Jerwin Catherine Romeio-Terasaka, Ria Jane likely the Philippine trench off eastern while 23 others chose to stay in Sedillo, Erwin Raagas, Lorena M. M. Tuzara, Estelita C. Sales, and Mindanao. Thailand. Burlaza, Reginaldo Recibio, Marlena Kathryn Joy B. Lomadilla. PNS The 15 were identified as Roselyn Baardsen, Jenny Rose Bagoyo, Mary

8 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 TOP STORIES Name illegal loggers– Defensor There are no sacred cows or untouchables

M A N I L A – S e c r e t a r y M i c h a e l and five PENROs for their alleged stricken provinces and in almost all parts Defensor has ordered all off i c i a l s involvement in illegal logging activities. of the country. nationwide to submit a list of the top "Too many people have died or have Defensor, who led series of raids on five suspected illegal loggers in their suffered as a direct result of the greed of several sawmills in Quezon and Agusan respective jurisdictions. illegal loggers. We risk meeting the full del Sur after the tragedy, stressed that Defensor issued a special order even wrath of the people if we continue to regional directors should be strict with as he warned the officials that they condone their activities," Defensor regards to paperworks to prevent illegal would face sanctions if they showed stressed. loggers from creating a semblance of lack of cooperation on the agency's mas- Defensor was referring to the series legality in their operations. sive campaign against illegal logging of typhoons early this month that killed The DENR head revealed that there activities. hundreds and caused millions of pesos were many cases in Quezon wherein The order was issued during a meet- worth of losses in properties in the DENR officials issued permits and later ing with all DENR regional executive provinces of Aurora and Quezon and in recycled many times by the illegal log- directors, provincial environment offi- some parts of Nueva Ecija. gers. cers (PENROs) and other ranking offi- He had earlier said that the land- "Above all, if you know anyone cials of the DENR at Camp Aguinaldo. slides and floods spawned by Typhoons engaged in illegal logging, who boasts It would be recalled that Defensor Violeta, Winnie and Yoyong had been of connections in government, report the has imposed preventive suspension to at caused primarily by the unusual amount matter at once to me. There are no least three community environment and of rainfall and geographic factors, but sacred cows or untouchables in the war DENR Sec. Michael Defensor natural resources officers (CENROs) that illegal logging was also to blame as against illegal loggers," he added. it obviously is still going on in the North Korea Canadian mining magnate sold arms keen to mine in the Philippines to RP rebels TOKYO - North Korea sold some By BERNIE CAHILES-MAGKILAT my. lization of minerals, petroleum and min- 10,000 rifles to the largest Muslim In the 1980’s he recalled, the eral oils. rebel group in the Philippines from MANILA–Canadian billionaire and Philippines was ranked as 5th biggest The basic law also expressly states 1999 to 2000 and also tried to export mining magnate Robert Friedland has producer of gold and 9th biggest produc- that the State may undertake these activ- small submarine vessels, a Japanese expressed keen interest to explore the er of copper in the world. ities via “agreements with foreign newspaper said on Monday. country’s mineral resources. With the SC affirming the constitu- owned corporations involving either The arms deal between North This was revealed by Trade and tionality of Republic Act 7942 or the technical or financial assistance” as pro- Korea and the Moro Islamic Industry Secretary Cesar V. Purisima Mining Act, expect the mining industry vided by law. Liberation Front (MILF) came to after a recent conversation with to overtake some sectors in the country’s The landmark decision lifted an light after security authorities seized Friedland. top 10 exports and take the number three important barrier to foreign investments documents from the MILF in According to Purisima, Friedland, slot,” Purisima said. and has opened the gates for overseas N o v e m b e r, the Yomiuri Shimbun who is founder and chairman of Ivanhoe In the SC decision, the high court capital to pour into the country’s big daily said, quoting a southeast Asian Mines Ltd., was encouraged to invest in noted that the Constitution expressly mining projects.(BCM) ( C o p y r i g h t security source. the country following the Supreme allows services contracts in the large 2005) With permission from The Manila Such arms sales are an important Court’s decision lifting a ban against full scale exploration, development and uti- Bulletin. All Rights Reserved. source of foreign currency income for foreign ownership in a mining project. isolated North Korea, which is on the Friedland will be flying into the country United States' list of countries spon- early January next year to meet with soring terrorism, the paper said. industry players regarding possible busi- MILF spokesman Eid Kabalu ness ventures. Gov’t vows to work told Reuters the report was old and Purisima quoted Friedland as saying "totally untrue." that he believed that only one percent of A spokesman for the Philippine Philippines potential in the mining sec- military said he was unable to con- tor has been harnessed. doubly hard on firm the story. Ivanhoe is an international mining The paper said the transaction company developing a major new dis- was conducted mainly in Malaysia, covery of gold and copper at the with a North Korean arms dealer Turquoise Hill (Oyu Tolgoi) Project in economy in 2005 signing a deal with a senior MILF Southern Magnolia. member around mid-1999 to sell Ivanhoe has a $1 billion gold and MANILA–Malacañang assured the Bunye said the administration will bank small arms to the Muslim rebels. copper resources exploration program in Filipino people that the Arroyo adminis- on its modest successes in pushing for The contract was for North Korea other Asia Pacific countries such as tration will doubly work hard in 2005 fiscal reforms and the cooperation of the to sell weapons such as 10,000 M16 Australia, Kazakhstan, Myanmar, particularly in advancing significant government and private sectors in rifles, hand grenades and spare parts Vietnam, and South Korea, targetting reforms needed to bring back the coun- implementing austerity and other cost- to the MILF for about $2.2 million, copper, gold and iron ore from various try’s ailing economy to growth path. cutting measures. the Yomiuri said. mining sites. Press Secretary Ignacio Bunye, also " We are gaining grounds on The weapons were shipped by “ F r i e d l a n d ’s interest in the presidential spokesman, made the assur- reforms, increase revenues, integrity and the end of 2000 -- probably via Philippines mining sector is a testament ance to assuage growing public senti- efficiency. Inculcating governance will Malaysia -- to MILF-controlled areas to the wisdom of the SC’s decision. It ments that hardships were felt by major- entail teamwork among institutions and on Mindanao island in the southern also heralds the renewed interest of for- ity of the Filipinos during the Christmas solidarity of all Filipinos which we Philippines, the Yomiuri said. eign investors to grab a chunk of the season. believe will be sustained with the advent That was a time of heavy fighting c o u n t r y ’s mining industry,” Purisima "We accept and understand the pre- of New Year," he said. between MILF guerrillas and govern- said. vailing sentiments on economy. We con- In a related development, Budget ment forces, but a ceasefire has held “This early, several big ticket min- sider this a challenge to work harder on Secretary Emilia Boncodin said the gov- for 18 months as both sides edge ing projects, which are expected to all fronts to shore up confidence, ernment will release the incentive pay of towards formal peace talks. infuse huge capital to the country’s increase investments, create jobs, and all government workers not later than The MILF also agreed around economy, are already lined up to register improve lives," he said. February next year. She, however, did 2002 to buy a small submarine from with the Board of Investment,” Purisima In a recent survey conducted by the not give the exact figures for the incen- North Korea but the deal was sus- said. Social Welfare Station, majority of the tive pay.(Copyright 2005) With permis - pended after security authorities got Purisima cited how important is the Filipinos said they expect harder times sion from The Manila Bulletin. A l l wind of the arms sales, the paper said. mining sector to the Philippine econo- ahead in 2005. Rights Reserved. (Reuters)

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 9 ALOMPOD President / Publisher / Executive Editor FELIPE "Keem" ESPEJON MARITER GO Vice President–Advertising & Marketing Director Business Executive ARTUROCRUZ JOE OMPOD Editorial Consultants Advertising Executive Director News Editor DENNIS O'LEARY GEORGE DEL FIERRO BERNARD PURISIMA SAM SANTAMARIA Liaison Officer EMELYN TAPAOAN GABRIEL ALFIERO Correspondent, Manila Advertising Executives Correspondents RALPH CECILIO EZEKIEL CRUZ Correspondent,R.P. TONY REMOLLO Advertising Executives VIC DEL FIERRO, JR. RICARDO F. BORJA Public Relation Officer ANITA BORJA PAUL VERSOZA

Contributing Writers ENRIQUE J. ZOBEL / WILLIAM M. ESPOSO / JOSE MA. MONTELIBANO JULIO REY B. HIDALGO / CONRADO DE QUIROS / PANFILO M. LACSON HERMAN TIU LAUREL/ JUANFLAVIER/ ERNESTO MACEDA LITO BANAYO / MAX V. SOLIVEN / BLAS F. OPLE/ GEMMA C. ARANETA MANUEL L. QUEZON III / TEODORO C. BENIGNO / ARLYN DE LACRUZ ZETA EZPY / ADRIAN E. CRISTOBAL / FRED M. LOBO SOL VANZI MICHAELBENGWAYAN / OSCAR S. VILLADOLID / BEN CONDINO HECTOR R. VILLANUEVA / ARIEL BOCOBO/ ANTONIO R. TUPAZ NESTOR MATA / ANTONIO T. CARPIO / EVITA SAGARDUI NGO ALICE NEPOMUCENO FRANCISCO/ EDGARDO ANGARA / IMEEMARCOS Photographers VID FIGUERAS Senior Photographer NORBIE GOMEZ / ALEX BUDHI / ROMEO GACAD / DANNY GUMATO TIMOTHY CRUZ / BIENVENIDO "Ben" BALABA / JESS ALEJANDRO Cartoonists GILMANINGO / NEIL DOLORICON / TIMMY LEE AL AGUIMAT/ DENNIS AGUSTIN Business Consultant Art and Graphics Consultant FRANK BELARMINO JOEY REYES Legal Consultants PAUL SANT' AMBROGIO, Esq. / JOHN HOWLEY, Esq. BILLY CRIS VIDAL (New York) / Atty. TONY INVENTADO (Philippines) Business &Editorial Advisers MIKE ZARRAGA / ALBERT PIDLAOAN / Rev. GAUDYSORIANO Fr. FRANCISCO "Kiko" MAGNAYE / Fr. EDITO GAMALLO ED PINOS VID FIGUERAS TONY LOZADA Circulation & Distribution Consultant Business Consultant Reporter Technical Consultants MARK McKINNON / YVETTE LUCAS / GUILLERMO "Jun" ISIDRO P.O. Box 179, Millburn, NJ 07041 Tel: (908) 265-6290 E-mail:[email protected]

LORD, who may abide in your tent? BARRIO BREEZE Who may dwell on your holy mountain? by Juan M. Flavier Whoever walks without blame, doing what is right, The parable speaking truth from the heart; Who does not slander a neighbor, does no harm to another, never defames a friend; Who disdains the wicked, of the tourist but honors those who fear the LORD; THE Caucasian tourist hailed the taxi by the bay. INCORPORATED Who keeps an oath despite the cost , lends no money at interest, from the curb of the airport arrival "Now, that is AUGUST 17, 2000 accepts no bribe against the innocent . NEW JERSEY, USA area. He was the outgoing type who really some- Whoever acts like this MANILA POST shall never be shaken. loved conversations and meeting all thing," com- hopes to be one of the major news information sources of all Filipinos worldwide. PSALM 15:1-5 kinds of people so he seated himself in mented the – FOUNDER front beside the driver. tourist as he "Where to, sir?" asked the airport pointed his U. S. FIRST AMENDMENT RIGHT taxi driver courteously. camera at the Cultural Center of the Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, "Manila Hotel, please," said the Philippines. "It looks really grand. What or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, tourist as he positioned his camera. is it?" or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, "But let us pass through the heart of The taxi driver glanced to the left and and to petition the government for a redress of grievances. the city so I can get an impression of simply replied, "Oh, I do not know what the place." that is, sir. You see, it was not there last The vehicle proceeded on until it week. By the way, from where are you, passed a guarded area. "What is this sir?" place?" asked the tourist. "I am from the great city of New York "That is Malacañang Palace. It is - also known as the Big Apple of the the official residence and office of our United States," answered the beaming President," answered the taxi driver tourist. casually but with pride. "It took many "I see. In the States, New York must years to complete it," he added to be considered a big city," commented the impress the visitor. driver as he fixed his attention on the "Oh, where I come from we could road. "But here in the Philippines, New build that compound in just a few York is only a street in Cubao." months," offered the man as they Puzzled but still wanting to keep up drove on. the conversation, the tourist asked, "And "How about that structure to the what is the most popular sport in the right?" Philippines?" Mohamed Khan "That is our old congress. That, "Cockfighting," answered the driver C A R S A L E S C O N S U L T A N T too, took many years to construct without thinking. because of its elaborate architecture." "That is revolting," exclaimed the Again the tourist remarked, "That tourist. Call: (973) 779-7000 is nice. But it should not take such a "No. Revolting is only the second long time to build something like most popular." Fax: (973) 779-3922 that." 1137 Route 46 at Route 3, Clifton, NJ 07013 Soon, they reached the boulevard (Copyright 2003) With permission from The Manila Bulletin. All Rights Reserved.

10 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 EDITORIAL OPINION No warning Mining Filipinos can only thank the heavens for keeping away from this country the deadly tsunamis that swept through Asia good last week. Otherwise we would be joining the other tsunami-stricken nations in wringing hands over the lack for the of effective early warning systems for natural disasters. President Arroyo admitted that the country lacked country forecasting capability for giant waves and other natural by PETER WALLACE President catastrophes. Even before the tsunamis unleashed The Wallace Business Forum by a powerful earthquake off the Indonesian coast killed THE RECENT Supreme Court ruling on mining could yet be one of its most tens of thousands across Asia, the disaster preparedness important decisions.The Philippines has one of the highest levels of poverty in of the Philippines was already under question. Victims Asia, with some 58 percent of its people admitting they are poor. A disturbingly of recent weather disturbances in Luzon complained that they high 34 percent are officially listed as poverty-stricken. A great bulk of these lacked sufficient warning about the strength of the typhoons, people live in the provinces, so far away from any help that could uplift their lives. which triggered flashfloods and mudslides that killed But there is a savior, and the Supreme Court has recognized it-mining.Mining over a thousand people in several towns. brings vast wealth and economic progress to a nation-look at Australia. It can do as Philippine experts at least have some success in much for the Philippines now that the Supreme Court has allowed foreigners to predicting a volcanic eruption and can alert residents help develop this rich resource. Those previously opposed to mining to evacuate danger zones. Still, no one predicted the fury must now accept the fact that a starving child is a greater concern than a tempo- of Mt. Pinatubo when it awakened from 600 years of slumber. rary, limited damage to the environment. The key in mining these days is to do The eruption of Pinatubo, which was not even in the it in a responsible fashion, with minimal harm to the environment so that the land international list of volcanoes, altered global weather is restored once the mining operation is finished. Mining provides local people patterns and spewed ash all the way to Vietnam. with jobs and other income-producing activities. It also generates more Geologists said the magnitude 9.0 quake that triggered resources for community development. It is not mining itself but mining done the recent Asian tsunamis knocked the Earth off its axis and irresponsibly which is the problem. We need to ensure that mining companies permanently altered the regional map. Experts in Japan, operate with the welfare of the communi- ty in mind. where a rapid alert system for tsunamis following temblors Too often in the past, well-meaning people stopped or disrupted mining oper- has been in place since the Kobe earthquake a decade ago, ations without fully weighing the benefits of mining against its disadvantages. said thousands of lives could have been saved if a similar I appeal to the mayors and governors: act in the national interest. I've heard too warning system was in place in the stricken countries. many stories of local officials making it difficult, if not impossible, to operate a It took up to two hours for the massive walls of water to mine. Congress has spoken, the administra- roar into the coastlines of South and Southeast Asia, the tion has reinforced it, the Supreme Court has agreed: mining is good for the coun- experts noted, but there was little or no warning of the try. It's time to raise the poor out of the approaching danger. morass they've sank into. The Philippines is no stranger to tsunamis. In August I appeal to the mayors 1976, a tsunami killed thousands in Mindanao. Since then, and governors: however, nothing has been done to upgrade the nation’s early act in the national interest. warning capability. The nation cannot predict the strength I've heard too many of typhoons with reliable accuracy, much less the approach of stories of local killer tsunamis. This deficiency must be addressed before officials making it difficult, the nation faces massive catastrophe. if not impossible,

WITH PERMISSION FROM PHILSTAR to operate a mine.

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 11 TOP STORIES RP can't Rosebud turn Estrada’s knee appeal against FG Mike operation Marcos MANILA–After lying low for some time, whistle- blower Mary Ong alias Rosebud surfaced yester- day to make yet another round of startling revela- deal says tions. ‘successful’ In an interview at the Department of Justice, US court Ong claimed that First Gentleman Miguel "Mike" Erap to form government in excile in HK? Arroyo was behind the expose made by business- MANILA–Airport authorities hunger, putting in place his pro- By Adam Tanner woman Blanquita Pelaez against Sen. Panfilo expressed alarm over the departure gram to feed the hungry and the Lacson. to Hong Kong last Friday of poor, through a backyard vegetable SAN FRANCISCO - The govern- According to Ong, Arroyo gave Pelaez P12 deposed President Joseph planting and fish-raising program. ment of the Philippines cannot million to pursue her case against Lacson. Pelaez Estrada's several Cabinet secre- He has, of late, been criticizing appeal a victims' class-action set- sued Lacson when he refused to honor a P15.6 mil- taries, but appeared helpless to the Arroyo government and vowed tlement against the estate of former lion handcuffs deal because the PNP, which he prevent any of them from leaving to lead a fight against the “corrupt ruler Ferdinand Marcos, the U.S. then headed, would have paid the Customs duties the country as they are not in the government of Mrs. Arroyo.” federal appeals court ruled on and taxes on the handcuffs, not Pelaez. government's hold order list. The former aides of Estrada Tuesday. Ong claimed she has proof of the payoff" Reliable ources told newsmen left aboard separate Philippine The decision by a three-judge between Pelaez and Arroyo that took place in that Malacañang aides had earlier Airlines flights bound for Hong panel of the U.S. 9th Circuit Court 2003. "I'll tell everything when the right time been tipped off by Palace airline Kong . of Appeals is the latest episode of a comes," she added. “moles” on the scheduled depar- Those who gathered briefly to long-running legal battle dating Arroyo reportedly wanted Pelaez to continue ture of the former leader's Cabinet talk over coffee and breakfast at the back nearly two decades against her expose to further taint Lacson who was then officials, all of whom stayed with PAL Mabuhay Lounge before leav- the dictator who fled to Hawaii in hogging the headlines for his alleged involvement him up till the time he left ing at 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. respec- 1986 and died three years later. in kidnappings and drugs, she said. Malacañang in 2001. tively were former Finance In 1994, a U.S. federal jury in R e c e n t l y, Arroyo's publicist, Nemesio Palace aides reportedly raised Secretary Jose Pardo, Budget a class-action suit in Hawaii Antonio, phoned to warn her of a plot to kill her by the suspicion that the former Secretary Benjamin Diokno, Public awarded $1.96 billion to nearly the 14-K drug syndicate. leader had started the put his “plan Works and Highways Secretary 10,000 victims after finding the "That is impossible. Maybe it is Mike Arroyo in operation” with the move to Virgilio Vigilar, Health Secretary Marcos estate liable for the torture, who wants me dead," she said. PNA form a “shadow government” Alberto Romualdez, A r a r i a n murder and disappearances of although airport officials were said Reform Secretary Horacio Filipinos during Marcos' rule. to have speculated on Estrada Morales, Labor Secretary Because of a tangled legal bat- forming a government in exile in Benjamin Laguesma and National tle that followed the ruling, the Meningococemia the former Crown Colony. Economic and Development claimants agreed in 1998 to a $150 A Palace insider, however, Planning Secretary, Philip Medalla. million payout to end all claims. informed the media that orders Taking an early flight aboard PR- The money was not paid, how- is spreading coming from the National Security 300 were former Sen. Francisco ever, as litigation continued. The A d v i s e r, Ret. Gen. Hermogenes Tatad, Congressman Luis “Baby” money was to be drawn from MANILA–Contrary to public perception, the Ebdane were for the Philippine Asistio and Nueva Ecija Gov. Marcos deposits in Swiss banks, deadly meningococcemia disease is not isolated in National Police chief Gen. Edgar Joson. including Credit Suisse, worth Baguio City as cases have been reported in differ- Edgardo Aglipay to ensure that Asked by newsmen to confirm about $590 million, which the gov- ent parts of the country, including Metro Manila, Estrada is not left alone without a whether a government in exile was ernment also claims on grounds according to the Department of Health. security guard in his room while to be formed with this visit, Diokno they were part of assets Marcos Health authorities said meningococcemia he meets with his former Cabinet replied that “there is no political illegally amassed while in office. cases have been reported in places as far as secretaries. agenda involved in our visit,” (Reuters) Polomoloc, South Cotabato. Estrada never made any bones adding that they are simply con- About 200 or so cases of meningococcemia about the opposition forming a cerned about the health of the were reported in the 1990s; 76 cases were report- shadow government, long before deposed leader following his knee ed in 2002 and 83 in 2003. In 2004, 27 confirmed he departed to China for his knee replacement surgery at the Hong JI plot to cases were reported, excluding 25 suspected ones replacement surg e r y. He had Kong Adventist Hospital last in Baguio reported in December, including five announced this move before he December 31. (Tribune News) bomb Quiapo which were later confirmed. Ten persons in declared a revolution against Baguio died of the disease last month. procession Meningococcemia, caused by bacteria, is characterized by headache, vomiting, body ache, s t i ff neck, convulsion, irritability. Rashes and thwarted severe hemorrhage are noted in some cases. It is MANILA–Security forces foiled transmitted from person to person through Friday an alleged plot of the al- droplets exhaled while sneezing or coughing. Qaeda linked Jemaah Islamiyah Cases of meningococcemia are sporadic as in terror group to bomb the feast of some barangays in Baguio City. At least 15,000 the Black Nazarene in Quiapo, Manila with the arrest of 16 sus- people in 27 Baguio barangays have been give pected militants. preventive antibiotics by the DOH and the City Police said the plot was thwart- Health Office to prevent the possible spread of the ed after policemen raided the ailment. Islamic Foundation Center on the The DOH has reported 43 meningococcemia third floor of the A g o n c i l l o cases in Baguio City, including 21 deaths. Building on Pedro Gil street and DOH officials in Baguio City have confirmed Taft Avenue in Manila. that meningococcocemia cases are rampant in the The lawmen said the suspects Cordillera Automomous Region, except in the were assembling bombs intended province of Abra, with 24 fatalities since the bac- for suicide attacks, to be detonated terial disease was reported in March last year. during the Black Nazarene proces- Since Jan. 1, four fatalities were reported sion. while nine infected individuals are still confined at Initial reports said a finished the Baguio City General Hospital, Dr. Antonio bomb was found during the raid, Bautista, head of the DOH Disease Prevention prompting the police to cordon off Cluster, said. the area as they defused the explo- Six of the infected individuals are from sive. remote barangays of Baguio City, five from A still undetermined amount of Bauko, Mt. Province, and one each from Itogon TNT in boxes was also recovered, and Tublay, Benguet. "ISHALLRETURN": Detained former Philippine President Joseph Estrada Bulaong said. Baguio City health officer Dr. Florence Reyes waves beside his wife, Sen. Loi Estrada, right, before boarding a flight to "The scenario is, there would Hong Kong at Manila's international airport Monday, Dec. 27, 2004. Estrada be suicide bombers in the feast of admitted that there is an unusual occurrence of the the Black Nazarene," Jamias said. disease recently compared to 2003. There are five promised to return to the Philippines after knee surgery in Hong Kong to Among the most prominent confirmed cases this month alone, with one death continue the fight against alleged tyranny and government mismanage- regular participants is Vi c e reported. PNA ment. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) President Noli de Castro. (STAR)

12 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 May the magic of this holiday season... Bring you great joy and happiness. Happy Holidays!

Your Mortgage Consultant, Christopher Stanton

111 Wood Avenue South Iselin, NJ 08830 Office: 732-321-2080 Ext. 3213 Fax: 866-809-3322 Cell: 908-337-7960 [email protected] www.opteum.com/cstanton

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 CENTER

The indomitable emcees Narding & Hil. 2 0 0 4 Wayne Manor, New Jersey

GREETINGS!

I am overwhelmed by the display of support and unity of all Tagbilaranons Rick Borja assisted by Nitz Borja handing awards Former Mayor Robert Rivas enjoyed of the Eastern seaboard of U.S. A. for the children of Tagbilaranons who excel in watching the performance of to make this Inaugural Ball and dinner their scholastic performance. "The Friends and Music". a very successful celebration. I thank you all for your unselfish support for our project of helping the day care program in our beloved City of Tagbilaran. This is a noble project for our children to provide them with good foundation in their pursuit for higher education.

We are on a mission to ameliorate the youth of Tagbilaran and offering prosperity to our communities as well.

We thank all our guests who responded our invitations and those who placed ads in our journal. Your generosity and good spirit will never fade away from our thoughts of the Tagbilaranons. Thank you all so much. Dr. Rudy Penalosa singing Drs. Ramie Cadag, Pepe Recitas and their ladies a spiritual song for discussing about the huge attendance of the Inaugural Ball. God bless us all in our endeavors. the invocation. MABUHI ANG TAGBILARAN UG ANG TAGBILARANON!

Ricardo F. Borja President

The famous "Friends and Music" of the Tagbilaranons.

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 PAGE

Fr. Sim Manigqui seated extreme left who jetted from the Philippines just to attend the Inaugural Ball. Fr. Sim Manigqui seated extreme left who jetted from the Philippines just to attend the Inaugural Ball. Bobong & Maggie Dejaresco are excited the antics of the emcees. REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES Senate MANILA

MESSAGE

Warmest greetings to all!

I take pride in the fact that there does not exist a community with closer ties than the Filipino. But as we are painfully aware of, most migrants, in their bid to assimilate Atty. Manny Baluyot and wife Fancy came all the way from the Philippines. themselves to the culture of their adopted land, inadvertently forget their roots and their heritage as a people. I wish to commend the Tagbilaranons in the eastern seaboard for perpetuating our tradition of close community ties.

I also wish to commend the organization for laboring hard to make the Filipinos always united, a force to reckon in America.

It is my fervent hope that you will forge Jowelie Ballista singing "Tell Him" of Barbara Streisand on into the future with the same zeal and Celine Dion. and enthusiasm that you have always displayed.

MABUHAY KAYONG LAHAT AT ANG TAGBILARAN!

President Ric Borja receiving recognition award from the Milvian Ann Borja dishing out state of New Jersey from Ludy Hughes assisted Lea Salonga song , "Still" by Betty Garcia.

Panfilo "Ping" Lacson Senator

Senate of the Philippines, Room 523, GSIS Financial Center CCP Complex, Roxas Boulevard., Pasay City, Philippines Tel: 552-6601 loc. 5534, 5535 Fax: 552-6743 The ever supportive Sandugo family club members pose for posterity during the Inaugural Ball.

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 Rose De Castr o 120 Eagle Rock Avenue, Suite 210, East Hanover NJ 07936 Tel: (973) 560-4000 ext. 7116 Fax: (973)515-0431 Cell: (201) 532-6686

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 SELECTEDSITES OF SATELLITE-FEED NEWS VENDING MACHINES AT MAJOR FINE HOTELS Incoming 2005 will be AND AIRPORTS IN AMERICA the Year of the Rooster By ILUMINADO VERALA JR. were all eccentric." The rooster is a reputable worker. His sharp intellect and effi- Novotel New York (Times Square) 2005 is the year of the ciency impress people. With his 226 West 52nd Street , New York 10019 USA flamboyant Rooster, the Don many administrative abilities and Quixote of the 12-year Chinese natural passion for work, the roos- Courtyard Marriot La Guardia Airport Lunar cycle represented by a dozen ter will be successful early in life. 90-10 Grand Central Parkway, East Elmhurst, NY USA animals. What he needs most in every- Best Western Marina Park Hotel As the Chinese say: "This is thing he undertakes is restraint, 340 Biscane Blvd, Miami, FL 33132 USA the animal that hides in your moderation, and a firm hand to heart." direct his energies. Lazer Graphix The years of the rooster in the Theodora Lau, a Shanghai- 3021 S. Valleyview, Suite 209, NV 89102 Las Vegas USA 2005: Year of the Rooster 20th century are 1909, 1921, 1933, born Chinese horoscope expert, Marriot Stamford, CT 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, and 1993. says that the rooster has many out- Two Stamford Forum, Stamford, CT 06901 USA "This year (2005) we may have to standing qualities to crow about. expend maximum effort for mini- Still it will Network Support Company "He is sharp, neat, precise, organ- 7 Kenosia Avenue Suite 2B, CT 06810 Danbury USA mum gain," according to Asiatic ized, decisive, upright, alert, and astrology. This dampens optimism be a good year. most direct. He loves to argue and Rosen Centre Hotel Orlando that the year of the rooster will be a debate, showing how knowledge- 9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL32819 USA better year than the exiting year of able and smart he is, sometimes The world will Sofitel the Monkey. with little regard for the feelings of 5800 Blue Lagoon Drive, Miami, FL33126 USA Old fashioned Filipinos asso- others." ciate the chicken with hand-to- get by without "The rooster can be practical Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki mouth existence or "isang kahig, about difficult matter. But he can 100 Holomoana Street, Hawaii 96815 Honolulu USA isang tuka." too much also be very unreasonable and diffi- Marriott Panama Hotel But the Chinese expect this cult over simple things. If the roost- Calle 52 y Ricardo Arias Area Bancaria, Panama City, year to be buoyant in spite of the hardship. er’s dreams are too far-fetched and rooster’s knack for making simple overambitious, he will suffer disap- SELECTED SITES OF SATELLITE-FEED NEWS VENDING things complicated. pointments. He must learn to stop MACHINES AT MAJOR FINE HOTELS "One thing is for sure: the a bit frayed," it is promised, reaching for the sky." AND AIRPORTS IN ASIA & AUSTRALIA rooster seldom comes up empty- The rooster will find success For the people of the East, handed. This is the year of one and money in the most common especially the Chinese, Cell-Infortech Inc. very selfsufficient bird that will places. The Chinese says that the Vietnamese, and Japanese, this year Maruko Center Bldg. 14-1, Higashi-Ueno 2 Taito-Ku, Tokyo 110-0015 Japan never go hungry," say the Chinese "Rooster can find food even in the means much work for less gain. astrologists. hardest ground with its sturdy beak "Be cautious. Do not aim to high. Radisson Hotel Bali The advice is to keep our eyes and claws." One is liable to get shot down." J1 Hang Tuah No. 46 Sanur open and the mouth shut and check A writer of Asiatic horoscope This is how the Oriental sooth- Denpasar 80228, Bali, Indonesia fact and figures before making reports: "Many millionaires were sayers look at the world during the unprecedented moves. born in the year of the rooster and ITC Maurya Sheraton Hotel & Towers year of the rooster: Diplomatic Enclave, New Delhi - 110 021, India "Our pockets will not be they all have one other thing in "Politics will adhere to hard- common besides money – they empty although our nerves may be line policies. The diplomatic scene New World Renaissance Hotel will be dominated by philosophical Kowloon, Hong Kong orators who have a lot about noth- 22 Salisbury Road, Tsimshatsui, Hong Kong China CLASS '79 - VELEZ COLLEGE OF NURSING ing. Governments will be found flexing their muscles at each other, The Imperial Queen's Park Hotel but just for show. Dissensions and 199 Sukhumvit 22, Bangkok 10110 Thailand debates on all fronts will signify the rooster’s penchant for argumenta- Hilton Auckland Princes Wharf, 147 Quay Street, Auckland tive exercises and will not be likely New Zealand to do permanent damage to anyone when taken in the right context." SELECTEDSITES OF SATELLITE-FEED NEWS Still it will be a good year. The VENDING MACHINES AT MAJOR FINE HOTELS AND world will get by without too much AIRPORTS IN EUROPE, MIDDLEEAST & AFRICA hardship. The Oriental lore about the ani- Al Jazirah Corporation mal sign has it that one New Year’s Al Jazirah Building, King Fahd Highway Al Sahafa Area, Riyadh 11411 Day, the dying Buddha called all Kingdom of Saudi Arabia beasts, promising rewards if they came. Holiday Inn Amsterdam Only 12 turned up: the rat, the De Boelelaan 2, 1083 HJ Amsterdam, buffalo, the tiger, the cat (or rabbit), The Netherlands the dragon, the snake, the horse, the goat, the monkey, the rooster, the The Hyatt Regency, Dubai dog, and the pig, arriving in that PO Box 5588, Dubai, United Arab Emirates order. To each, the Buddha gave a Marriott Hanbury Manor year to bear its name. The 12 ani- Ware, SG12 0SD, Hertfordshire, United Kingdom mals, according to the story, would Ogigis Hotel Amenities have influence upon the life, des- 40, Pyrrou street , Pagrati, Athens, Greece tiny, and character of the people born in its year, and on the year OMNI Yazilim itself. Kisikli CAD. No:1 ak is Merkizi K:2 D:6 Unlike the Westerners who rely Altunizade 81190, Istanbul, Turkey on the sun and the zodiac sign (Aries, Taurus, Gemini, Cancer, SETS SRL Leo, Vi rgo, Libra, Scorpio, Via Washington 93, 20146 Milano, Italy Sagittarius, Capricorn, A q u a r i u s , Easy4U Vending Solutions CC Pisces), many Easterners depend on P.O. Box 12605, Hatfield, 0083 Pretoria, South Africa the influence of the moon and these dozen animals in their lives, Sheraton Amsterdam Airport REUNION: Velez College of Nursing Class 1979 on board Voyager whether in business, politics, or Schiphol Boulevard 101, 1118 BG Schiphol Airport of the Seas Royal Caribbean on their 25th Anniversary celebration. personal relationships. The Netherlands MORE PICTURES ONNEXT MANILA POST ISSUE.

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 13 PHILIPPINE FLOODS AND LANDSLIDES RELIEF EFFORT Donations for RP flood victims continue to pour in Philippine New York Consulate releases list of donors

NEW YORK–Almost a month to the Dr. Benjamin Ileto–$ 500.00 Kevin Mondron–$100.00 Rinaldo/Joy Bacordo day rampaging flood waters destroyed $ 25.00 lives and property in parts of Quezon Filipino Social Club of NY Ogie Del Mundo–$100.00 and Bicol provinces in Luzon, help in $ 500.00 Manolo/Abbelane Mempin the form of cash and relief goods for the PACEC–$ 100.00 $ 25.00 flood victims continues to pour in. Assn. of Phil. Physicians in Philippine Consul General to New York, NY–$ 500.00 Lamberto/Lina Santos Cecilia R. Viray Cecilia Rebong, said this in a report $ 100.00 $ 25.00 dated 6 January 2005 to Foreign Affairs Dr. Agerico/ Mrs.Linglingay Secretary Alberto Romulo. Lacanlale –$ 500.00 Carlos/Brenda Talisaysay Judith Belonia In the report, Rebong said that "as $ 100.00 $ 25.00 of 6 January 2005, the Consulate has Benito Gonzales – $500.00 Holistic Health Options, Inc. Anonymous received a total cash donation of more Dr. Micky/Grace Yu –$ 500.00 $100.00 than $29,000.00 from the community, $ 25.00 Cecilia Rebong with more pledges of cash and in-kind Dr. Fabian Sy–$ 500.00 William Brown–$100.00 RP Consul General to NY donations coming in." Of this amount, Isabelita Palasol Erlinda Velasco–$ 20.00 Rebong said "the Consulate has turned SGVAlumni Association of Anonymous–$100.00 $ 25.00 over $3,465.00 to the Philippines Eastern America–$ 500.00 through the Department of Social Luzviminda Kastury–$ 100.00 Ruby Santos Valintino/Florence Asuncion Welfare and Development (DSWD) and Rudell and Associates $ 25.00 $ 10.00 the National Disaster Coordinating Personnel–$400.00 Jorge Ortoll–$ 100.00 Council (NDCC)." "The Consulate will Armando/Minda Marie Dizon–$ 10.00 turn over the rest of the cash donations Consul General Cecilia Verne Pineda—$100.00 Magundayao (and any additional amounts it will Rebong–$ 350.00 $ 25.00 Filoteo/Consuelo Garcia receive) to the NDCC," she added. Amor/Thomas McGuinnes $ 10.00 The Consulate also shipped earlier Delta Dental (Maria Salamat) $100.00 Filomena B. Rubio ten (10) boxes of relief goods to the $ 310.00 $25.00 Maligaya Garcia–$ 10.00 Philippines. An additional 40 boxes Leonida M. Cortez—$100.00 await shipment. Several cargo-forward- Performing Arts of the Phils. Cecilia Bones Isidoro/Benita Samonte ing companies, namely, Port Jersey, $ 300.00 Dr. Raul/Mayette Sala $ 25.00 $ 10.00 Johnny Air, LBC, St. Joseph Fast Cargo, $ 100.00 Manila Express, Magcor International Rick/Fiona Guevara–$ 300.00 Filemon/Violeta Trias Jovito/Merced Omana Jesus C. Moneva –$100.00 $ 25.00 $10.00 F o r w a r d e r, Macro and Forex have Order of the Knights of Rizal, pledged to help in shipping the remain- NJ–$300.00 Dr. Mars and Cora Custodio Alvaro Correo–$ 10.00 ing boxes to the Philippines. $100.00 S. Bacayo Branzuela Consul General Rebong described $ 25.00 Filipino American Association Elvira Po–$ 10.00 the outpouring of help from the Filipino of W. CT (FAAWC)–$ 300.00 Moncadenians of N. America community in Northeastern USA a s Inc. –$100.00 Roger/Shirley Espino "phenomenal." "It shows our readiness Lolita/Michael Aguila $ 25.00 Manuel/Mila Ramil–$ 10.00 and willingness, as a community, to $ 300.00 Reynaldo/Gloria Balatbat come together for a common great –$50.00 Vicente/Aurora Grana Christina Oconnor–$ 10.00 cause," she added. Santa Cruz, Laguna Assoc. EC $ 25.00 Chapter Josefina Maquiling Victoria Kwiatkowski FOLLOWING IS A LIST OF CASH AND $ 300.00 $ 50.00 Feliciano/Violeta Lopez $ 10.00 IN-KIND DONORS FROM THE $ 25.00 FILIPINO-AMERICAN COMMUNITY PA Fil-Am Lions Club D-14A Eleanor Read Richard/Helen Pearse IN NORTHEASTERN USA $ 300.00 $ 50.00 Dr. Baby Bleza /Mr. Roy 10.00 IN THE ORDER THAT THEIR DONATIONS Guinto–$ 25.00 WERE RECEIVED BY THE CONSULATE Corazon Gemil–$ 250.00 Dr. Murillo/ Ofelia Carolyn/George Bennett III (N.B. Some donors requested Mangubat Mildred N. Lombardi $ 10.00 anonymity; others merely dropped Philippine Senior Citizens $ 50.00 $ 25.00 their donations at the designated International , Inc. –$ 250.00 Robert/Virginia Kuehn Peter/Ana Diller–$ 25.00 $ 10.00 drop-off center without revealing PhilAm Veterans Org. Inc. Luningning Gunnefelt their identity.) $ 250.00 $ 60.00 Rogelio/Josefina Tizon Robert/Remedios Strickland $ 10.00 LIST OF CASH DONORS FOR Dr. and Mrs. Enrico Khu Avelina Pimo $ 25.00 RP FLOOD TYPHOON VICTIMS $ 250.00 $ 60.00 (As of 6 January 2005) Amada Martin–$ 25.00 Robert/Rosalinda Kraus PhilAm Communities Anonymous $ 10.00 PMAAFoundation, Inc. (Cadag) Executive Council (PACEC) $ 48.00 Patrick and Andre de Luna $ 3,000.00 $ 200.00 $ 25.00 Jesselie P. Moneva–$10.00 Roger Sy Collection from Simbang Gabi Masses Enrique/Annabel Nakpil $ 40.00 Matthew and Andre Olfindo Raquel Gomez–$ 10.00 $ 1,662.05 $ 200.00 $ 25.00 Lisa/John Mitchell, Jr. Mila Apostol–$ 10.00 Phil-Am Trading, Inc. Kayumanggi Society of PA $ 40.00 Francis Villamater–$ 25.00 $ 1,500.00 $ 200.00 Charles/Airen Sherrill Eden and Clifford Paredes $ 10.00 New England FilAm, Inc. Maximo/Otelia Godoy LL Alimov–$ 200.00 $ 30.00 $ 25.00 (NEFAI)Chelsea Patti Gabasa–$ 10.00 $ 1,325.00 Federation. of Filipino Sean/Cielo Lane Lisa Consolacion–$ 20.00 Associations in Connecticut Elizabeth C. Grant–$ 10.00 Neo-Filipino Association, Inc. $ 200.00 $ 30.00 $ 1,000.00 Jaime Peralta–$ 20.00 Robert/Kimberley La Brie Edith/Raymond Soriano Shu-Ju Chang–$ 200.00 $ 10.00 Dr. Alice Francisco $ 30.00 Lydia/Malka Stern–$ 20.00 $ 1,000.00 Padilla & Company, LLP Zenaida and George $ 150.00 M r. and Mrs. Ricardo Filomena Rubio –$ 20.00 John A/Nanette S. Wright Rogayan Mangonon–$ 10.00 $ 1,000.00 Anthony/Maria Carmina Yu $ 30.00 Cecilia R. Viray–$ 20.00 $ 150.00 Juli Belle Quintos–$ 8.00 Filipino American Assoc. of Bucks Obdulia/Edgardo Ramas Alex Omana–$ 20.00 County Inc. First Filipino Baptist Church $ 30.00 Godofredo/Pilar Aguilar $ 1,000.00 $ 150.00 Deborah Stino–$20.00 $ 5.00 Juanita/Benedicto Bancaflor Engr. Rudy and Dra. Connie Quiambao Maria Inez Herrero–$ 140.00 $ 25.00 Charles/Elizabeth Sibicky Walter Hager–$ 5.00 (sent thru Ayala Foundation USA) $ 20.00 $ 1,000.00 Millicent Paredes–$ 120.00 Felix/Virginia Vergara Total Collections $ 25.00 Luisa/Herminigildo as of 06 January 2005– Phil. Consulate General Staff Raymond G. Cruz–$100.00 Masilang –$20.00 $29,210.05 $ 502.00 14 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 Food Take-out and Catering Services Filipino/Oriental Food Store Money Transfer & Remittance to RP Balikbayan Boxes & Air Cargoes to RP Video/Audio Tapes Sales and Rentals ORIGINAL OIL PAINTINGS by FILIPINO ARTISTS Noli & Rose Chavez 80 Franklin Street Belleville, New Jersey 07109 Tel. : (973) 759-1449 Fax: (973) 759-1778

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 15 MOTHERLAND Opposition A Woman Of Substance bloc not keen on defines convicts, that is woman who had For a moment, she had it in the palm what makes criminals experienced great Poe widow of her hand to play, not queen, but the out of otherwise good challenges herself, king himself. For a moment, she could people. In Muntinglupa, especially about los- have turned mourning into frenzied rage one can find many of ing one’s illustrious as leader and, perhaps, satisfy an urge for revenge. these individuals. mate, that made Cory It is not often that such a moment comes, On the other hand, reach out to someone MANILA–To help the opposition and even more rare for such a moment to heroes are not necessari- who was not that bloc, yes, but not as its leader. be made available to one person. One ly the best of people. close to her. FPJ’s This was how two opposition moment, and Susan Roces had it. Many are considered, in death, and the politi- members reacted to the one-million How ironic, then, that a woman that fact, quite ordinary. cal circumstance that signature campaign being launched had gained fame and fortune from an H o w e v e r, one special is today’s context, by supporters of actor Fernando Poe illustrious movie career and had married, moment, one chance at By Jose Ma. Montelibano will make two Jr. to convince his widow, Susan not an ordinary actor, but Da King him- bravery and nobility, women have more Roces, to lead the opposition group. self, could with ease smile and deny her- and an ordinary life beomes extraordi- things in common in very special ways. "If she (Roces) would only help self a chance of a lifetime. She was given nary. That is what defines heroes, that is It will not be strange for these two spe- the opposition, that's fine. But to power by fate, but her simplicity gave her what makes supermen of otherwise cial women to establish a special rela- lead the opposition, that would even greater power to rise above such a simple people. In a country hungry for tionship. require more thought," said Makati temptation that few can resist. heroes, in a moment and circumstance To rise above partisanship in a Representative Agapito "Butz" Susan was a public figure who chose, that may never come again, Susan country that is retching from too much Aquino in a telephone interview. together with her husband, to have a quiet proved to be a woman of substance. bad politics will be a challenge that Aquino, who supported another private life. She was a wife who wit- They say that the wake of FPJ will confront Cory Aquino and Susan oppositionist, Senator Panfilo nessed her mate in deep pain and frustra- rivaled that of Ninoy Aquino, maybe Roces, Lacson, over Poe in the last presi- tion over an unthinkable loss of a contest even surpassed it in a number of ways. elections or no elections. Around FPJ dential election, said they should be where personal popularity normally Just like in 1983, there was no presi- in the last year of his life was an array consulted first if there were moves would be an insurmountable advantage. dential election in near sight, but Cory of politicians that must have made him to install Poe's wife as the new She was a political supporter who must the future president made her debut as a very uneasy. Simple people, especially opposition leader. have believed, like his other allies, that political personality. There is no presi- those with strong and unwavering loy- Negros Oriental Representative FPJ was cheated out of a presidency. Yet, dential election in near sight today, but alties, invariably feel uncomfortable in Jacinto Paras, a staunch ally of Poe, when an opportunity to indulge in Susan has also beome a political per- the midst of greedy and ambitious said he would support Roces "not as vengeance was placed on her lap, she sonality. She can resist the temptation to politicians. In the end, FPJ chose to a candidate" but as a "rallying point showed only disdain at what many others go political, and she probably will. But fraternize with only a handful, the spe- to unite the opposition." would have given a leg and an arm to like Cory, life may force Susan to con- cial handful who made him comfort- "She could be the rallying point have. front a situation that gives her no other able. of the opposition as we have to While the moment was with Susan, respectable choice. Susan need not go partisan, and unite within the legal bound," Paras another woman was calling on her armed One rare moment may have passed she need not even go political. But her said. troops to be loyal to her. And as an addi- for Susan, and she responded with rare spoken word that she will pursue the But Paras said there was no talk tional insurance, all sorts of blockades maturity as well. That does not mean, cause that her husband was engaged in within the group to push Poe's wife ringed a Palace that exuded more fear however, that other moments just as will draw her to that political landscape as the next candidate of the opposi- than power. It would have been a once in special, just as pregnant with possibili- which will make her also feel uneasy. tion bloc. a lifetime face-off between two women, ties, will not be coming her way any- How, then, can a non-political and very Paras' remarks confirmed a pre- both of whom had power in their hands, more. In fact, those who refuse what private person honor not only her word vious statement by former Senator but one with the more intense motive to many hunger for are often and repeat- but her fallen mate’s cause without Vicente “Tito” Sotto that Roces was use it for vengeance simply turned her edly tempted – if not to raise the level of going to the eye of the storm? not being considered as the next back on it. purity on the person involved, then to O b v i o u s l y, she cannot stay away. leader of the opposition. Convicts are not necessarily evil peo- use the person as a shining example to Hopefully, though, she will not lose her Senator Edgarda Angara float- ple. Many are considered, in fact, good many. substance as she does so. ed the idea of having Roces as a Unfortunately, one weak moment, one Cory Aquino went to the hospital Rising beyond politics will allow replacement for Poe, who died after wrong decision and a whole good life can when FPJ was in coma to give Susan a Susan to keep her substance yet serve suffering from stroke in December. suddenly turn very bad. That is what rosary It might have been her being a the special purpose of inspiring a dis- INS couraged and fearful people. Society has few high profile models of honesty, propriety, and statesmanship yet needs these models so acutely. If corruption is Imee predicts at an all-time high, if poverty is at an all-time high, it can only be because worst times there has been a severe lack of societal leaders with integrity and compassion. for Prez GMA Better late than never. Susan is not in the prime of her youth, but she may MANILA–- THE worst is yet to be in the prime of her life. If she takes come for the Arroyo administration. the challenge to be public role model, This is how Ilocos Norte Rep. then she will need the courage, not so Imee Marcos foresees the year much to remain honest and sincere, but ahead, noting the ripening public to weed out the undeserving who will unrest fueled by rising prices of fuel surely try to surround and influence and basic commodities, growing joblessness, low wages and excesses her. This is an often underestimated of people placed in positions of temptation and one that hardly ever power and influence as payment for fails to achieve its purpose. political debts. Women of substance are a boon to "The long-suffering masses any society, but specially needed by have seen enough of the empty Philippine society. Men of substance, promises of this government in the too, of course, are needed as well, but past year, and they are prepared to this moment belongs to Susan and her force reforms that the administration ilk. It is the choice of life to make us has denied them," the opposition focus our eyes today on the woman lawmaker said. who survives the loss of her man, on "If President Macapagal-Arroyo the queen without her king. From the still harbors fantasies about her gov- movies to real life, Susan can become a ernment's credibility, she only has to star. Simply by staying a woman of look at her abysmal performance rat- substance. ing to disabuse her mind," Marcos said. Susan Roces, widow of former Philippine presidential candidate and action movie Mrs. Arroyo's popularity rating star Fernando Poe Jr., places flowers on his grave at Manila's North Cemetery dur- [email protected] has dropped to its lowest of `5 per- ing his funeral Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) cent shortly before Christmas.

16 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 THE HIGH GROUND Military Could that be the Christmas orders manhunt before the political storm? for colonel Diosdado Macapagal's press secretary and now Philippine ambassador to linked to I waited for the Christmas and New Palau Leo Parungao who gave the most Year holidays to be over before writing plausible explanation why there is a this. I did not want to add to the already high incidence of suicides during the coup plot bleak outlook painted by the SWS sur- Christmas season: Christmas is a sea- vey released last December 23 that son of love and happy times so that THE MILITA RY has ordered a depicted Filipinos as having the worst when an individual finds himself undu- manhunt for an army colonel who ever pessimistic feelings towards hav- ly depressed at this time, the discrepan- was allegedly involved in the latest ing a happy Christmas. cy drives a painful contrast that can destabilization attempt against the The SWS reports that this pes- only exacerbate despair and self-pity. government. simism is felt by one out of three I tend to believe that it is in the con- Lieutenant Colonel Filipinos. Taken from a social and his- By: William M. Esposo text of this dark sense of despair and Buenaventura Pascual, A r m e d torical perspective, the numbers reveal foreboding that one-third of Filipinos Forces spokesman, identified the a more chilling reality - the fact that this Steal all you want see only a sad Christmas in the offing. suspected putschist as Lieutenant is hardly the season and time when And it is going to be illogical to think Colonel Orscarlito Mapalo. Christian Filipinos are expected to feel but make sure that the people that so many Filipinos will commit sui- Mapalo has been restricted to cynical. "Dominance of pessimism is are properly fed. When one cide either. A few of them might and military headquarters since rare, and previously occurred only in that has been a common scene these September after he publicly criti- March 2003 (the Iraq Wa r ) , man's desperation reaches starvation level, reason is days - desperate parents opting to end cized the military's promotion sys- September/October 2000 (Juetenggate) their lives with their children in tow. tem. and in 1984 (post-Aquino assassina- sidelined and instinct takes Many of us saw some of these on Pascual said Mapalo eluded his tion)", says the SWS report. over. But when whole families primetime television news. guards and left the camp on Public pessimism during the height and communities go hungry, The extent of desperation and cyn- December 21. “[Camp Aguinaldo of the Iraq War, an external event with icism that now stalks the Philippine commander] General Aleo has devastating international consequences, collective instinct takes over. landscape is not new. There was a time ordered his [Mapalo] rearrest,” is expected and cannot be helped. The The desperation of those who when the people of France during the Pascual told reporters. two other local events were forerunners 18th century and the people of Tsarist “Before he [Mapalo] went of People Power upheavals that marked have nothing and those others who have little to lose Russia in the early 20th century under- missing, we had an intelligence historical turning points. But today's went the same desperation and the report of destabilization moves and public pessimism is set against the is a tsunami waiting to be hunger that found their people compet- this was further bolstered with his backdrop of a presidency regarded as activated by the slightest jolt ing with rats in scavenging for food in escape,” Pascual said. illegitimate by 55% of Filipinos (per trash bins. Those social conditions Mapalo escaped a day before another SWS survey) coupled by a peo- of a singular act of injustice or inhumanity. caused two of the greatest and bloodiest the burial of movie actor and ple misery index that far exceeds condi- political upheavals in history. T h e defeated presidential candidate tions that prevailed in the period pre- Macapagal-Arroyo regime. This is even French and the Russian revolutions Fernando Poe Jr. ceding the first and second People proved that extreme hunger awakens Justice Secretary Raul Power events. This leaves us with but more than ten times the multitude that made up the funeral entourage at the bur- the primal instinct of people to embrace Gonzalez said groups had planned one logical conclusion - a more turbu- the law of the jungle, driving them to to agitate the mamoth crowd that lent turnover of power is in the horizon. ial of Fernando Poe, Jr. Furthermore, the remaining two-thirds of Filipinos who take a last ditch gamble to safeguard joined Poe's funeral march into One must understand that among their survival. overthrowing the Arroyo adminis- Filipinos, Christmas is a very special did not share the pessimism of the one- third over enjoying Christmas do not Steal all you want but make sure tration. The march, however, was event unlike no other. It is a time when that the people are properly fed. When peaceful. class divides are blurred by the spirit of even approve of the Macapagal-Arroyo regime. The earlier SWS survey released one man's desperation reaches starva- The military is also investigat- giving and sharing. Filipino homes cel- tion level, reason is sidelined and ing the involvement of Colonel ebrate Christmas as best as they can last December 17 showed Macapagal- Arroyo sliding even further in net satis- instinct takes over. But when whole Jose Gamus in the destabilization afford, from the humblest shanty to the families and communities go hungry, plot. most opulent of mansions. It is a time to faction ratings - the only incumbent pres- ident polled by SWS to have slid into collective instinct takes over. The des- Gamus campaigned for Poe in be happy and a time to be together with peration of those who have nothing and the May election in violation of kith and kin. For a Filipino, Christmas negative net satisfaction ratings. The -5% net satisfaction ratings of those others who have little to lose is a military regulations and is confined provides a catharsis for the pains and tsunami waiting to be activated by the to quarters. (INC) aches of the past 12 months. Macapagal-Arroyo last December 17, immediately followed by the projection slightest jolt of a singular act of injus- The SWS findings which reveal tice or inhumanity. that one of three Filipinos does not even of a "sad Christmas" five days later, do not make good ingredients for happy Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo should see this Christmas as a much-awaited not delude herself that her co-opted and respite from the drudgery of his impov- days ahead, specially for one who is blamed for messing up the economy and pampered military and police generals erished existence is certainly cause for can protect and preserve her regime YOUR FRIENDLY alarm. They do not see any 'joy to the whose regime is largely-perceived as illegitimate. Quite unsettling when one when the equation reaches this level of world' nor find reason to raise their desperation. The deposed French and DOCTOR hearts up in this 'season of hope'. This also considers that our two People Power events have both occurred during the Russian monarchies commanded better is even made worse by the fact that respect, fealty and loyalty from their such people tend to blame it all on the first quarter of 1986 and 2001. Sometime in the late 70's when I was generals but to no avail. Their generals, greed and callousness of their public like ours, commanded soldiers and jun- officials. This can only mean one thing: having lunch at the MOPC (Manila Overseas Press Club), then located near ior officers whose families lived under left with precious little to rejoice about, the same pitiful social conditions. In the there is also precious little to lose for my office in Makati City, one of the members brought sad news about some- end, the French and Russian armies people stuck in the pits. Surely, pre- joined the ranks of the people and we serving the oppressive status quo would body who committed suicide. Most of us did not know the suicide, but the news all know what happened to the families be the least in these people's minds! of the Bourbon and Romanov royal A Filipino who pictures himself was very disturbing, more so because it happened a few days before Christmas. houses. RAFAEL R. V. LUCILA having a sad Christmas is like a child I wish you all a Happy New Year. feeling dysfunctionally depressed amid Nobody knew what prodded the person to do it and there was no evidence of a Under the circumstances that we are in, MD., FAAFP all the glitter and sounds of Disneyland. I hope that is not wishful thinking. One of three Filipinos, around 28 mil- severe financial or romantic setback - Family Medicine common causes of suicides - to suggest lion of the 84 million or so, is now You may email shrouded with a pall of gloom - what why it happened. That it happened days before Christmas made it a conversation William M. Esposo at: Call For Appointment Shakespeare described in the opening [email protected] line of Richard III as the 'winter of our piece for the next two hours around the Tel: (973) 249-6202 discontent'. MOPC round table. Fax: (973) 249-6203 The collective negative energy of 28 million desolate Filipinos should be Who would feel like ending one's life (Reprinted in Manpost with the per - mission of INQ7.NET, website of the 780 Allwood Road enough cause for panic for the during a happy time like Christmas? I think it was former President Philippine Daily Inquirer and the Clifton, NJ 07012 GMA-7 Broadcasting Network)

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 17 Travel becomes leisure when...

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18 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 BUSINESS Mining execs: bauxite deposit big in E. Visayas Catholic-backed groups in Samar, TACLOBAN CITY- Eastern Visayas avoid destruction of our environment," Samar and the other in Palompon, Enales said. Leyte. Alburo said that while he respected their would greatly benefit from the Supreme opinion, these mineral resources must Court’s recent decision to open up min- There are at least 32 pending appli- The Heritage Mining Corp. is cations for the exploration of bauxite engaged in chromite mining in be explored and used for the benefit of ing operations in the country to foreign the greater number of people. companies, say regional officials of the and other mineral resources in the Homonhon while the Phechem Industry region, Alburo revealed. Corp. is quarrying limestone in "We really have to consider other Mines and Geosciences Bureau. options. (Preserving) the environment Loreto Alburo, regional MGB At present, there are two existing Palompon. mining operations in the region. One is Aware of the opposition to mining and conducting a mining operation chief, said Eastern Visayas is one of the could co-exist," he said. INS country's richest regions in terms of in Homonhon Island, in Guiuan, Eastern operations by environmentalist and mineral resources. He added that the region's huge bauxite deposit alone would be more than enough to help improve the country's financial condi- Corruption bloats cost of doing business in RP tion. "Based on our study, in Samar By MAX ESTAYO scribers per 100 people, and 6th out of points slipped from 2.2 percent of gross province alone, there is a big bauxite 12 in total road network. domestic product in 1997-2001 to 1.3 deposit that is worth P24 billion, a big All this has resulted in the decline percent in 2002-2003. amount that is more than enough for the The cost of doing business in the of the country's competitive ranking, The WB said a reduction in corrup- government to get out itself of its pres- Philippines is one of the highest in Asia. from 35 in 2000 to 52 in 2004, accord- tion in the country to the low levels in ent fiscal problem and even pay some of In countries such as the Philippines ing to WEF. Singapore would raise the ratio of our debts," Alburo told the media. where corruption is pervasive, the cost This affects the country's ability to investments to GDP by 6.6 percent and Alburo said that there are can amount to more than 25 percent of a attract investors. rate of annual per capita GDPgrowth by 408,240,634 tons of bauxite deposits firm's sales, according to the Wo r l d The World Bank said the country 1.65 percent. (Copyright 2005) Wi t h that are spread in 194,900 hectares of Development Report 2005. has one of the lowest foreign direct permission from Malaya. All Rights land on Samar Island waiting to be As a result, the report said, investments (FDI) in the region. FDIs to Reserved explored. investors are not inclined to open shop the country in terms of percentage Aside from bauxite, which is used in the Philippines. in the production of aluminum, Eastern The cost of registering a property in Visayas is also rich in other mineral the country amounts to more than 5 per- resources like gold, copper, chromite cent of the value of the property, as in and silver. Indonesia. But the Freedom from Debt Bribes alone costs firms more than NOW HIRING! Coalition (FDC)-Eastern Vi s a y a s 4 percent of their total sales, again the decried this move to open up mining same level as in Indonesia. operations in the country even to foreign Meanwhile, electricity expenses mining companies. amount to 10 percent of firm's sales, a FULL TIME / PAR TIME JOB Rey Enales, regional secretary gen- level comparable to India and Kenya. STARTING $23,000-$31,000 eral of the FDC, said that mining opera- In a recent World Bank study, 35 tions would only result in environmen- percent of respondents cited corruption tal destruction. as a key problem in the Philippines. "Just like logging activity, mining Compounding this problem is the ... is also one of the reasons for the country's poor infrastructure. Public destruction of our environment. If the investment in building roads and related government would indeed push (for) the infrastructure accounts for less than 3 revitalization of the mining industry, at percent of the gross national product, SINCE 1967 least it must be regulated and all proper one of the lowest in Asia. measures should be put into place to As a result, the World Economic Forum ranked the Philippines 68th out HUMAN RESOURCES of 75 countries in overall quality and Ask for: ( Mon. through Thurs., 9-5 PM ) sufficiency of infrastructure. ALFONSO (973) 748-5251 ext. 103 The country also ranks very low in PHILIPPINE FLOODS service delivery. With respect to its OMPOD (973) 748-3953 ext. 102 Asian neighbors, the Philippines is 8th (973) 748-4993 ext. 119 AND LANDSLIDES out of 11 in the quality of electric sup- ply, 6th out of 12 in telephone sub- RELIEF EFFORT 622 Bloomfield Avenue, Bloomfield, NJ 07003

ALPHA PHI OMEGA OFW remittances (New Jersey) in 2004 & MANILA POST are accepting donations expected to hit of clothings, food, canned goods, blankets and money 8 Billion dollars for victims of floods and landslides brought on MORE than US$8 billion in remittances from Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) 321 Millburn Ave.,Suite 1 by TYPHOON WINNIE is being projected by the government for in the Philippines 2004. Millburn, New Jersey, USA Labor Secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas APO/ MANILA POST said the latest remittances recorded by can be reached at the the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) following e-mail addresses: reached nearly US$6.937 billion during P.O. Box 179 [email protected] the third quarter. [email protected] "If the trend is maintained for the Millburn, NJ 07041 months of November and December, For further infos OFW remittances for the entire year of and pick-up CALL: 2004 would exceed US$8.3 billion," said (973) 376-4880 (908) 265-6290 Sto. Tomas. Citing a report of the BSP, Sto. Send your donations at: Tomas said the increase in remittances of MANILA POST OFWs was mainly because of the P.O. Box 179 increase in deployment of skilled and Millburn, NJ 07041 professional workers like nurses, health Attn: RP Typhoon Relief Effort workers, office, food service staff and production workers. (MSN)

MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 19 ENTERTAINMENT Filipinos Pay Tribute to "Da King" teacher who became a rebel leader, MANILA, Philippines - Tens of thou- marchers made their way along major hours - filed past Poe's glass-covered thoroughfares closed to traffic. coffin at the church. fighting greedy landlords in the 1920s, sands of Filipinos filled Manila's streets when the Philippines was still a U.S. Wednesday, Dec. 22, 2004, for the funer- There were no incidents reported Felomena Sadullo, 70, from Poe's after Poe's widow, actress Susan Roces, northern province of Pangasinan, colony. al of Fernando Poe Jr., the actor-turned- A veteran of 200 action films, Poe's presidential candidate who came to sym- asked mourners not to turn the funeral clutched a worn-out scrap book of the into a political event. actor's pictures and magazine clip- forte was the fist-swinging underdog bolize the aspirations of this country's hero. He was a five-time winner in the poor. Poe, 65, died of a stroke last week pings, titled ``You are my world.'' She without conceding May's presidential said she had rescued the book from the Philippine version of the Oscars. Security was tight as a horse-drawn But he may be remembered even more hearse with Poe's coffin led a massive election. His supporters still contend numerous storms that batter the impov- they were cheated by President Gloria erished archipelago. for his brief foray into politics. The burial procession from the Santo political novice and high school Domingo Church to Manila's North Macapagal Arroyo. Arroyo's camp ``Each time a storm comes this is denied any wrongdoing. the first thing I save,'' she said. dropout said he believed he could unite C e m e t e r y. Crowds shouted the actor's the nation because ``I am not a politi- name and waved his posters as the Hours earlier, a long line of mourn- One of Poe's best-remembered ers - some who waited longer than 12 screen roles was in the true story of a cian.'' (AP) Dolphy and Zsa Zsa may now marry

The coast is clear for singer-actress are calling it quits. Zsa Zsa Padilla and long-time lover, com- Quizon and Padilla have been plan- edy king Dolphy, to finally walk down the ning to get married for the longest time aisle. That is, if they still want to. - since 2003, in fact. It was supposed to The Court of Appeals recently upheld happen in December of that year after a lower court decision more than a year the Parañaque City regional trial court ago, granting annulment of Padilla's mar- dissolved the marriage of Padilla and riage of more than two decades to dentist Tatlonghari in August. This, however, Modesto Tatlonghari. never took place after a restraining Padilla, 40, and Dolphy, 76, have order from the Office of the Solicitor been together for nearly 16 years, nearly General (OSG) came out while the case the same period that Padilla had been try- was pending at the CA. ing to get her marriage annulled. Padilla, And in a latest development, the a veteran singer and television personali- CAgranted Padilla's motion to consider ty, has a daughter by Tatlonghari, 20- the government's withdrawal of its year-old Karylle, who herself is a singer opposition to the annulment case. In a Ousted Philippine President Joseph Estrada strokes the hair of his best friend and and actress. one-page resolution penned by Justice former Presidential candidate Fernando Poe Jr. as he attends his wake Tuesday Dolphy, whose real name is Rodolfo Delilah Vidallon-Magtolis, the CA evening Dec. 21, 2004 at Santo Domingo Church. Estrada was allowed by an anti- Vera Quizon, has 17 children by four dif- Special Fourth Division said the appeal graft court briefly from detention to attend Poe Jr.'s wake. Poe Jr. died Dec.14 fol- ferent women. He has never married. This filed by the OSG against the annulment lowing a massive stroke. He was 65. (AP Photo/Bullit Marquez) could change with Padilla's marriage now "is declared withdrawn and terminat- annulled, although rumors have it that ed." their relationship is on the rocks. This was after Padilla informed the Sources said Padilla wants out as she CA that the OSG already withdrew its is in a "dilemma" trying to find a life of opposition before the Parañaque RTC her own possibly amid the complexities hearing the case. of having a lover with a large family. It In seeking the annulment of her has likewise been rumored that Padilla is marriage, Padilla cited Ta t l o n g h a r i ' s not getting along too well with Vandolph, psychological incapacity. But a city Quizon's son by actress Alma Moreno. counsel filed a motion urging the court But definitely there's no third party to reconsider its decision on grounds involved, according to sources. W h e n that Padilla was not the victim of "mat- asked of these rumors, Padilla replies that rimonial tragedy" because she got she and Quizon still sleep on the same bed involved in an "adulterous relationship" and would neither confirm nor deny they with Quizon. Padilla, Esperanza Padilla- Tatlonghari in real life, has been with Quizon since 1990. The couple now have two children. Millions of FPJ mourners march along Espana St in Quezon City during the funer- The government counsel said al march for the movie icon towards the North Cemetary in Manila. JOE GALVEZ/ PNS Padilla violated public policy and the moral code when she entered into a relationship with Quizon while she was still legally married to Tatlonghari. Rica, no to ‘all the way’ The counsel alleged that Padilla's adulterous relationship made her psy- Going bold is now erased from the etc., she decided to give bold flicks a chologically incapacitated, not her hus- mind of Rica Peralejo. No matter what, try. band. she doesn’t want to bare in a movie She admits that, at any rate, her In appealing the decision, the coun- anymore. Not that she has anything entry into the bold scene has created an sel said the RTC judge merely consid- against it, but because, she feels, she impact on her showbiz career. ered the psychological findings favor- has had enough of it. As it is, she was in nine (9) bold able to Padilla, and not the fact that psy- flicks. And she said, “When you've chologist also stated that the singer- done almost 10 bold pictures, how actress also needed counseling. many parts of your body have you not The counsel said annulling the shown yet?” Naturally, she won’t go all marriage of Padilla to Tatlonghari could the way. serve as a precedent to unrestricted and Rica told in a presscon of her new indiscriminate filing of annulment show at ABS-CBN 2, Ek! Channel with cases and destroy the image of family Marvin Agustin, Dominic Ochoa and cherished and protected by the govern- Angelika dela Cruz, that her being a ment. bold star was actually by accident. Under the circumstances in Padilla When she was offered by Viva and Quizon's supposedly rocky rela- Films her first bold outing, Balahibong tionship even with the decision of the Pusa (Cat’s Fur), she immediately CA, will the couple still push through turned it down after reading the script. with their long-delayed plan to get mar- She simply could not imagine herself ried? STAR baring her body on the big screen. Dolphy ans SzaSza But, after persistent persuasions, Rica Peralejo

20 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 21 SPORTS Reyes named to coach RP 5 MANILA–As expected, Chot Reyes, preparation and training of the team Noli Eala announced Chot's appoint- month process that studied the four the dynamic, young mentor who guided i n all ABC-sanctioned tournaments, ment yesterday after a two-and-a-half- aspirants through print questionnaires Coca-Cola to a historic championship Reyes was the overwhelming pick to hour meeting with the league's Board of and interviews while drawing inputs in the pro league two years ago, was make it over three other reliable bench Governors at the Chateau 1771 from former commissioners Rudy officially chosen yesterday to coach the tacticians. Restaurant in Pasig. Salud and Jun Bernardino. national basketball team. Saying that Reyes has a better all- There were no objections from the "What was most significant by the From the very start since the PBA around vision for the national quintet 10-man Board the moment Eala pre- decision to name Reyes as head coach assumed commitment of handling the and a superior detailed program in the sented his 9-page recommendation, a is his international experience that next two years, PBA c o m m i s s i o n e r decision derived at after a long three- would be useful in future competi- tions," said Eala of Reyes, who acted as chief assistant and scout to Cone in the 1998 Asian Games. SPORTING CHANCE "Chot presented a complete and in- By Joaquin M. Henson depth vision for the national team. He was the more prepared. He was fully expressive with the completeness of his long-term vision," Eala added. "He is more knowledgeable when it comes to First Gentleman’s wishes international play." In assuming the post, Reyes beat out Cone, Joel Banal of Talk 'N Text and Red Bull's Yeng Guiao. First Gentleman Foundation Quezon City councilor Franz three wishes: That there will be better Reyes will be the fourth man since executive director Teresa Mangahas Pumaren, recently signed to a three- opportunities for my children and all Robert Jaworksi, Sr., Norman Black, sent word that President Arroyo’s year renewal as La Salle coach–"My of the youth of our land. Good health Cone and Jong Uichico to handle an all- husband, also known as Attorney for my family and loved ones. That pro national team since the Philippines Mike, is sharing his wishes for the there be better performance on all decided to bring PBAplayers into inter- holiday season. levels so that our country can recover national competition in the 1990 Beijing Asian Games. In his own words, here are the economically and that we may truly have a peaceful country that all of us No one succeeded in dethroning First Gentleman’s New Year wishes: China as Asia'a powerhouse, however. "Unity that all those involved in can be proud of. And may the victims of different typhoons find solace in Jaworski, Sr., with Black as his assis- sports move and act in one direction tant, managed a silver medal in 1990 , for the Filipino athlete and the coun- concerned hands that will reach out the best showing so far by the Filipinos try". to them. A blessed and meaningful since we started sending pro players. "Overall championship in the Christmas to all." Reyes, though, has other things in Southeast Asian (SEA) Games Cebuana Lhuillier team manager mind. 2005. If Vietnam could do it (in Danny Francisco–"That our national "We will do this like this was never 2003), why can’t we? We’ve got the athletes in all sports be given proper done before," said the 41-year- o l d raw talent and the corporate sector support in local and international Reyes, who admitted at first to be has been awakened to help out. With training and competition. That they dumbfounded by Eala's decision. "We'll the government all-out in its sup- be given true recognition as our try to win it in 2007. It's either we will port, we should be able to achieve national athletes now and in the years have a spectacular success or a spectac- our goal." ahead. That private entities support ular failure. It's either we get it or we " A Filipino Olympic gold our National Sports Associations for die trying." medal in Beijing (in 2008)." the continued growth of our national Reyes acknowledged the recom- For her part, Mangahas said her athletes and programs. That peace, mendation of the PBA and the vote of personal wish is "the successful sincerity and good health continue confidence he received from the board, staging of the 2005 SEAGames and upon us and our loved ones by the adding he would consult with all parties the emergence of more sports heroes grace of our Lord." involved regarding the preparation of the Philippine team that includes, for kids to emulate." Coach E basketball camp direc- tor and San Miguel All-Stars project among others, the PBA as a league, the P B A coaches, the Basketball More wishes: director Eric Altamirano–"I just wish that in the midst of the gift-buying Association of the Philippines or even Talk "N’ Text team owner Malacañang. Manny Pangilinan–"My three wish- and parties, we do not forget the real By February, Reyes hopes the es for Christmas? First, A s i essence of Christmas which is the national team's buildup will already (Taulava) back to Talk ‘N’ Text. birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. My be in full blast. The Philippines will go Second, a UAAP championship for personal wish is for my kids and even into a series of pocket tournaments here Ateneo. Third, an NCAA champi- the next generation to have a safe and against invited international teams and onship for San Beda." peaceful place to live in. I wish that will be played only on weekends so as Sportsman and promoter Carlos our country will finally have a long- not to disrupt the PBA schedule. PNA (Bobong) Velez–"For myself, fami- First Gentleman MIKEARROYO term basketball program that will ly and friends, good health and address the need to develop the grass- peace of mind. For our country, roots level." peace and economic prosperity "Unity Former Philippine Basketball which will have to start with a trans- Association commissioner Jun The formation of our hearts and a deter- that all those Bernardino–"My three wishes: Less mination to do something positive politics, more governance. Less cor- no matter how seemingly insignifi- involved ruption, more job opportunities. Less Voice cant to move our country forward. a n i m o s i t y, more unity among our We can begin within our own sur- in sports move sports leaders. May the New Year roundings and community like not bring us all new hopes and better of littering or by just being kinder to and act in tomorrows." everyone we meet." Sports agent Danny Mixed martial arts Hall of one direction Espiritu–"My first wish is that God Famer Alvin Aguilar–"More inter- continues to protect my family from Filipinos national recognition for Filipino for the harm and spare them of sickness and athletes. A bigger and even better pain in life. Second, I hope that the URCC (Universal Reality Combat Filipino sport that I love, basketball, will be in America Championships). More training successful in terms of harmony materials for MMA (mixed martial athlete among the heads of all associations arts)." that have a stake in the game. Third, Multi-awarded broadcast jour- and the I hope that our nation moves up eco- nalist and diehard La Salle alumnus n o m i c a l l y." With permission fro m Mike Enriquez–"Harmony, unity country" The Philippine Star and and prosperity for all Filipinos. A www.philstar.com. Christmas wish and a dream." – ATTORNEY MIKE www.RadioPinoyUSA.com

22 MANILA POST SPECIAL EDITION NEW YEAR 2005 MUSTARD SEED MAINTAINED BY: NESBEC

Mark 11:25 When you stand to pray, forgive anyone against whom you have a grievance, so that your heavenly Father may in turn forgive you your transgressions."

NAB Commentary - Mark 11:25 +Mat 6:14; 18:35 Matthew 6:14 If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. Matthew 18:35 So will my heavenly Father do to you, unless each of you forgives his brother from his heart."

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