Pinoy Herald January 5.Indd

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January 5, 2009

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First Year, No. 4 January 5, 2009

INSIDE

Nation Honors Rizal PAGE 3

Fil-Am Youtube star is the new DOT Ambassador PAGE 4

(Photo by Paul Morse) PGMA hopes for stability in 2009 Yul Servo is Brussels MANILA, Philippines--- Living days in silent retreat with her family sage, Mrs. Arroyo recounted events in the global economic recession, which fi lm fest Best Actor to fi ght another day! Perhaps the best in Baguio, marked New Year’s Eve what was truly a testing year, not only is expected to continue into the New way to sum up 2008 for embattled by giving gifts to some 3,000 poor for the Philippines, but, also for the Year, she is prepared to make tough if PAGE 8 President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. residents collected from the city’s de- whole world and expressed her wish unpopular decisions and will let “his- Surviving every bit of staunch criti- pressed communities. The country’s for stability in the coming year. “The tory judge her.” PGMA releases P2M for cism and bitter opposition in what was summer capital, which kicked off the year was tumultuous for the world The past year has truly been the truly an eventful year, the toughest celebration of its centennial year with due to the global economic recession toughest for the President and her Task Force 211 since her assumption to power, Arroyo a big bang, once again played host to that, thankfully, has not become a cri- administration, having to contend PAGE 9 said her wish for the New Year was for the First Family, whose holiday re- sis in the Philippines,” the president with numerous allegations of corrup- more stability as the countdown to her treats to the Mansion house (the offi - said. She said that she was wishing for tion and scores of crucial issues. 2008 remaining 18 months in offi ce began cial Presidential summer retreat) have “peace, progress and prosperity for the saw the President face another fresh Table tennis, the on January 1. been regular during Arroyo’s tenure people of the nation.” She also added underrated workout The President, who spent the holi- in offi ce. In a brief New Year’s mes- that to cushion the upcoming blows of continued on page 22 PAGE 19

The Ifugao woodcarv- Flunking MCC corruption test imperils $700-M for RP poor ers of Asin Road, Baguio By Rodney J. Jaleco Gaa explained. man and improving transparency in City PAGE 21 ABS-CBN North America News Bureau The control of corruption is part of the Bureau of Internal Revenue’s tax the parameters for “ruling justly”, one collection programs. WASHINGTON D.C. The Philip- of three main MCC indicators. Last Elevation to Compact status made pine’s apparent difﬁ culty to hurdle the January, MCC CEO John Danilovich the Philippines eligible to hundreds of Millennium Challenge Corporation’s expressed “serious concerns” with millions of dollars in grants and aid. corruption test is putting in peril over corruption indicators in the Philip- The MCC budget has grown from $700 million in aid for the country’s pines. $650 million when it was established poorest families. “The drop in performance was in in 2004 to $2 billion in 2007. Ulti- Ambassador Willy Gaa said the fact very dramatic,” he told reporters mately, it aims to make available $3 Philippines passed 14 of the MCC’s at the Foreign Press Center at the time. billion in succeeding years. 17 yardsticks in a review earlier this But in March, the MCC Board gave “The Board agreed that the Philip- month. the green light for the Philippines to pines remains eligible for developing The MCC indicated the govern- move up from Threshold to Compact a compact proposal,” an MCC statement was not spending enough for status. ment said, “but the MCC will sign a Rose Chomling from the Mt. Province health and primary education. But The Philippines was in Threshold compact until the country passes the holding woodcarvings from Baguio most damaging was the failing grade status since July 2006 and received indicator criteria on corruption.” in the area of “control of corruption”. $21 million mainly for anti-corruption “It’s a must-pass indicator,” Amb. projects of the Ofﬁ ce of the Ombuds- Ambassador Willy Gaa continued on page 22 January 5, 2009

2 January 5, 2009 Nation Honors Dr. Jose Rizal US clamps down on religious Visa December 30, 2008 marked the 112th death fateful moment finally arrived, Rizal was more By Rodney J. Jaleco anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose than ready. He declined the blindfold and chose ABS-CBN North America News Bureau Rizal, and once again, one of the pivotal events to be shot on his feet, standing with his head held in Philippine history was commemorated by high. He wanted to die facing the firing squad, SILVER SPRING, Maryland. America’s visa “One is for non-immigrant petitions. You millions of Filipinos. reasoning that only traitors deserved to be shot woes have hit even the religious community, im- come here not as a green card holder, as a non- His death, summed up his life, held the record in the back and he was no traitor. Rizal was de- migration lawyers and church workers revealed immigrant worker. Then there is the immigrant of what he had become and defined its mean- nied that wish, so, when the order to fire came, here over the weekend. petition for special visa for religious workers,” ing. In the words of the man known to many as he swung around with all his might and died fac- “The INS (now called the Citizenship & she said. “The Great Malayan”, written in his immortal ing the bright sun. Instead of falling on his face, Immigration Service) discovered, over the last “If you want to petition someone, first of all farewell piece “Mi Ultimo Adios”, “We only die he fell on his back, “the sightless eyes staring at seven years, that there has been a lot of fraud in you have to be a legitimate religious organization. once” and “What an exceptional death it was!” the sun.” His last cry was “Consummatum est.” In his dreams, Rizal had taken the execution- (It is finished.) er’s bullet many times, moving him to write of Our yearly tradition of honoring Rizal on his wish to show by example how to die for duty his death anniversary goes back to a presiden- and principles. In death, he showed the world tial decree issued by former President Emilio that the Filipino knows how to die gloriously Aguinaldo in 1898, one of the first acts of the for his country. Although scholars may ques- First Philippine Republic. This beautiful tradition the real motives of Rizal, whether his fight tion has endured the test of time, and although was for assimilation or independence, it is an there have been clamors to switch the celebra- undoubted fact that he inspired the first revolu- tion to Rizal’s birthday (June 19), to stop it is tion in Southeast Asia. In the words of the great to misplace our values. Rizal’s birth marked the freedom fighters, such as Andres Bonifacio, beginning of his mission, but, his death marked Rizal truly embodied the dream of a Filipino na- its accomplishment. The national hero’s death as tion and his martyrdom served to unite a nation, a martyr wielded his fractured nation for the first once taunted a cauldron of races, to fight for its time in its history, and convinced his people that freedom. the Spanish conquerors’ time was finished. In the early hours of December 30, 1896, the It’s the least we, Filipinos could do to thank Death Valley that was known as Bagumbayan an exemplary man, who according to Leon Ma. Church worker Edward Busque poses question on R visa at the free legal clinic by the Migrant was thronged with people announcing clearly Guerrero’s reckoning, had chosen to fall so that Heritage Commission A lot of people coming in from the Philippines are not only the execution to occur, but, that a turn- our nation may rise, truly earning the honor of the issuance of R visas,” church worker Edward those petitioned by a Catholic organization with ing point in history was to take place. When the being “The First Filipino”. Busque told ABS-CBN’s Balitang America at a ties to the Vatican. Migrant Workers Day forum. “However, what’s complicated is because they The R visa is issued to aliens proceeding to (DHS) really want to crack down on all frauds the United States to work in a religious capac- that are happening. You have instances where the ity. In its broadest interpretation, they can be people filing for petitions or the applicants are not issued to anyone “engaged in habitual activity actually working in that specific capacity, they’re that relates to a traditional religious function,” just getting the visa and in effect, they’re buying including liturgical workers, religious instruc- the visa. And that’s why there’s a crackdown in tors, workers in religious healthcare facilities, the R visa,” Tungol averred. translators and religious broadcasters. Valera hastened to add that the majority of R Busque helps organize visits of Filipino visa beneficiaries are legitimate “but because the church workers for the Holy Spirit Church, a system was abused by some, the government has Protestant church organization with a presence now resorted to on-site inspection and they (reli- in 50 states. gious groups) are audited.” The number of religious workers entering He added that there were already moves to the US on an R-1 visa has grown from nearly abolish the R visa but was stopped by a vigorous 11,000 in 1998 to over 25,000 plus nearly 7,000 lobby that succeeded because there is in fact, a of their dependents by 2007. need to fill the shortfall in religious workers in the Busque said he was told by immigration au- US. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, assisted by San Fernando City Mayor Pablo Ortega (right), thorities that they believe as many as one-third prepares to raise the national colors during the flag-raising ceremony Tuesday (Dec. 30, 2008) in of those who received the R visa were not really ADDRESSING THE SHORTAGE commemoration of the 112th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal (Rizal Day) at the Fer- religious workers. Valera said there is now pending legislation on nando City Plaza in La Union. (Exequiel Supera/OPS-NIB Photo) He said that until recently, the US Embassy Capitol Hill that aims to address the twin issues in Manila could issue R visas. But the Depart- of filling a religious need and plugging the loop- ment of Homeland Security (DHS) has changed holes in existing laws. the rules, and all applications now have to be Busque explained that church workers now PDEA bares Alabang boys bribe approved in the US. The series of alleged multi-million peso brib- destroy your operation,” he elaborated. He also have to undergo a process akin to those of Fili- ery offers to selected Department of Justice of- pino nurses and teachers with job contracts in the emphatically stated that he did not give in to the SHORTAGE OF CHURCH WORKERS ficials was only part of numerous offers to have moneyed bribe offer. US. The waiting time, Busque alleged, could take Fr. Pete Literal ministers to hundreds of in- the three “Alabang Boys” released from custody However, sympathizers of the rich and young from six to 12 months. mates in Virginia’s jails. before Christmas. boys were not ready to give up their cause, and He said they are trying their best to cope with “The number of Catholic priests and reli- This was disclosed by Major Ferdinand Mar- a second bribe attempt was offered to Marcelino the new rules. gious in the country is still so short compared celino, head of the Philippine Drug Enforcement through a mistah (classmate) of his in the Phil- “Definitely there will be an effect but we don’t to the amount of ministry that we have to do for Agency’s (PDEA) Special Enforcement Service, ippine Military Academy who is now out of have control over that. From the church perspec- Catholics,” he explained. the unit that was at the forefront of the buy-bust military service. From P 3 million, the offer was tive what the government is doing is all related to The shortage is felt across most church operations that led to the arrest of Richard San- raised to a staggering P 20 million. Declining the homeland security,” Fr. Literal explained. groups and large parts of America. It was this tos Brodett, Jorge Jordana Joseph and Joseph offer, the Special Enforcement Service chief said “The Catholic church here is very pro-active shortfall that paved the way to the influx of for- Ramirez Tecson in Ayala Alabang, Muntinlupa that he felt outraged and informed every detail of because they are recruiting vocations in the coun- eign church workers. and Araneta Center in Quezon City last Septem- the bribe attempt to his superiors. PDEA Director try, generating Americans to be priests. But that “The R visa has become restricted because it ber. Marcelino, a battle-hardened Mindanao war Dionisio Santiago told him to stay firm and to not will still not be sufficient because we have cur- has been abused,” Atty. Arnedo Valera, execu- veteran, said that the first bribery attempt hap- allow any form of bribe or influence to determine rently a big, big shortage,” he opined. tive director of the Migrant Heritage Commis- pened on the day of the arrest, with P 3 million the outcome of the well-publicized drug case The shortage, Fr. Literal explained, stems sion (MHC) averred. in hard cash being directly offered to him. “I of the so-called “Alabang Boys”. The suspects from the effects of a growing population and not “This is because they expanded the definition thought the war in Mindanao was dirty, but, the were caught in possession of various forms of il- enough young Americans taking up the vocation. of church workers. Even non-ministers who per- war against illegal drugs is dirtier and uglier,” he legal drugs, including marijuana, cocaine, Ecsta- But it could take more than a vigorous recruit- form religious functions were included in this said in an interview with the media. He further sy and shabu (methamphetamine hydrochloride), ment campaign to lure more people to fill the category,” he explained. noted that after an encounter with rebels in Min- all of which were believed to be worth millions shortage of religious workers. “Even if we fill “There are two categories of R visas,” Atty. danao, the battle was over. “But, in the war on of pesos. They all tested positive for substance up all the seminaries, that’s not a guarantee all of Kristine Tungol, Legal Editor of the American illegal drugs, people in government whom you abuse, cocaine in particular, during a mandatory them will become priests,” Fr. Literal declared. Immigration Lawyers Association, elaborated expect to help you are the very ones who will drug test conducted right after their arrest. He suggested this was one problem in America for ABS-CBN News. that might require divine intervention. 3 January 5, 2009 Gov’t’s anti-hunger and anti-poverty programs start to pay off ALABEL, Sarangani -- President est since the Marcos regime. ``This the government has implemented hint of global crisis and they are serv- said. She added that the Philippines Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said here is the result of a mixed careful plan- tough economic reforms to raise rev- ing us so well now. We are fortunate is also benefitting from expanded today that the reduction in the self- ning, economic reforms and the hard enues in order to generate additional because we have a cushion in place trade partnerships like the one with rated poverty appearing in the latest work of many people that enabled us resources and invest in human and to help the poor,`` the President said. China that support economic resil- poll survey has demonstrated that the to reduce the self-poverty rating,`` physical infrastructure that will at- Aside from increasing revenues, the ience. ``These efforts are working to government`s anti-hunger and anti- she said. She added that the imple- tract more investments. ``These in- government is also focused on build- improve the over-all quality of life of poverty programs are paying off. The mentation of harsh but necessary fis- vestments in infrastructure are help- ing up new industries to generate em- the people,`` the President stressed President, in a radio interview with cal reforms as well as the intensified ing to create jobs and stimulate the ployment and initiate the expansion even as she cited the need to continue Bombo Radyo-General Santos City poverty alleviation and hunger miti- economy and provide a social safety of trade relations ``to diversify our on a path of fiscal discipline, targeted here, said the drop in the self-pov- gation program produced positive net at a time when it is most needed.`` economic bridges, spread our eco- investment and programmed relief erty rating of Filipino families from results for Filipino families despite But, most importantly, `àll of these nomic risk and open up new business to the poor in order to weather the 59 percent to 52 percent is the low- the current financial crisis. She said actions were taken before there was a opportunities, `` the Chief Executive global storm. Fil-Am Youtube star is the new DOT Ambassador Filipino American Internet star, particular. Gambito, who goes by the is. That’s why I got emotional coming Christine Gambito has been chosen handle “Happy Slip” on Youtube, be- here...it’s a dream come true for me, “ as ambassador for Philippine tour- came a byword among Youtube view- Gambito told ABS-CBN’s Mario Du- ism by the Department of Tourism. ers because of her videos. She chose maual, adding that she felt obliged to ABS-CBN’s TV Patrol reported that “happy slip” because her mother used accept the post. “To help appreciate Gambito flew in to Manila for the to mispronounce “half-slip” when- the land where my parents came from launch of the DOT campaign to at- ever she (the mother) would remind and my heritage, it’s priceless. It’s my tract more tourists from the United Gambito -- still a little girl at the time duty to come [to the Philippines for States to come to the Philippines. -- to wear one. According to Gam- the launch].” Gambito won second As Philippine tourism ambassador, bito, her mother would pronounce place for Best Comedy in March 2007 Gambito will help generate interest “half-slip” as “hap e-slip”. Gambito at the Youtube Video awards. Her among Filipinos in the US as well as said that this led her to call the un- comedy sketches have been viewed Americans, to visit the Philippines. dergarment a “happy slip” and was 30 million times on the popular video Gambito first gained worldwide ac- later corrected by her classmates, sharing Web site. ( Article courtesy of claim in 2006, when she began post- who teasingly asked her if she wore a ABS-CBNNews.com) ing video comedy sketches on You- “sad slip” as well. “It’s huge. It really tube.com and her own site, www. happyslip.com. Her videos are hilari- ous insights into the lives of Filipinos struggling to retain their “Filipino- HAPPY NEW YEAR! ness” in a foreign country, the US in United Filipino Americans inducts new officers

New set of officers of United Filipino Americans in Maryland Incoming officers of the United Filipino residents, although, there are a few based in Americans (UFA) led by president Francisco Washington DC and Northern Virginia. Busa, took their oath of office before Consul Busa said his two priorities in 2009 will be Vic Fos last Dec. 26 at the New Fortune Restau- to conduct medical missions in the Philippines rant in Gaithersburg, Maryland. as well as supporting Bantay Bata projects. The new set of officers is composed of Busa, “The UFA was founded by church members executive vice president Danny Francia, vice in Gaithersburg and from there, they started president for youth and sports Aaron Cabay, reaching out to other people,” he explained. vice president for education and culture Sarah “Our basic mission is to prepare and develop Costales, executive secretary Jovy Rillera, re- the youth for leadership,” Busa said, pointing to cording secretary Sheila Austria, treasurer Viv- the obvious age mix in the group’s leadership. ian Ramos, auditor Henrik Molintas, and press “We’re also trying to promote unity among relations officers Ric Sison and Jun Aguas. Filipinos in America, so we’re also for empow- The UFA, which was established in 2001, erment,” he further added.(RJJ) has members mostly composed of Maryland 4 ACROSS THE ARCHIPELAGO January 5, 2009

books of Qur’an were burned and the an added attraction package to the visit the place especially the Halsema facturing and selling of firecrackers Cagayan De Oro mosque was partially damaged. The area. Purificacion Molintas, Tour- Highway where visitors can experi- in violation of Republic Act 7183 or Monsignor Rey Monsato, par- act was seen as a direct assault to Is- ism Regional Director said that the ence the cool weather and low-lying Firecracker Law. Three arrests were ish priest of the Nazareno Parish in lam, but, Mayor Constantino Jaraula occurence of frost in the area could clouds while traversing the highway. made in the City of Carlota involv- Barangay Lapasan expressed dismay was confident it will not provoke con- be promoted as an added attraction ing illegal manufacturing. Rommick and frustration over an attempt to burn Bacolod flict between the Muslims and Chris- to the region without however over- Mirasol, Jojo Salva and Danny Samil- down a mosque in Barangay Dansoli- Police authorities in Negros Oc- tians. Police Senior Inspector Joram emphasizing its negative effect to lano were all arrested for manufactur- hon, calling it an inhuman act. The cidental have reported to have con- Jumalon, station commander of Lum- the agriculture industry. The sudden ing without the necessary permit. In incident happened three hours after fiscated boxes and sacks of oversized bia Police Station immediately sent drop in Baguio’s temperature espe- Cadiz City, Recardo Ramirez was ar- Lawyer Odjee Gandambra, regional and imported firecrackers and py- a police team in order to guard the cially the northern parts of Benguet rested for selling without the neces- director of the Office of Muslim Af- rotechnics. The Special Operations mosque. The identities of the perpe- such as Atok, Buguias, Kibungan sary permit and P100,000.00 worth of fairs was invited to the Christmas Group (SOG) and Intelligence branch trators have not been identified, but, and Mankayan has oftentimes wor- firecrackers were confiscated. Eve mass by Monsignor Monsato in in the City of San Carlos and La Car- the local government is intensifying ried the farmers because of its abil- an unprecedented effort for an in- lota carried out the operation. The Cebu City its investigation, so that no similar ity to freeze the vegetables. Molintas, terfaith dialogue and compared Is- intelligence agency has seized more Cebu Archbishop Ricardo Car- event will take place in the future. however, said that turning this frost lamic beliefs with the birth of Christ. than P200,000 worth of illegal fire- dinal Vidal has refused to undergo experience into a positive tourist at- Some unidentified men tried to burn crackers. Several arrests were made surgery to address his back problems. Cordillera traction can complement the depart- the mosque, but, the residents of the throughout the province, all of which For quite a while now, the Cardinal The Department of Tourism has ment’s strategy in enticing people to area quickly put off the fire. Some added the experience of frost as have been related to illegal manu- of Cebu has been suffering from os- teoporosis, which literally limited his mobility. He requires assistance while walking, taking stairs and standing for a long period of time. Such greatly hurt his back and neck. The Cardinal’s in-between cartilage has been so used that the bones are almost touching each other causing so much pain in his back and neck, but, despite the pain, he still refused to undergo an operation, arguing that he is too old. The prelate said that he does not complain because it is his way of empathizing with the suffering public and that there are others who are suffering more than he does, so, he has no reason to complain at all. This year, Cardinal Vidal, mind- ful of his health, will limit his church visits and appointments. Davao Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is planning to ask the Balika- tan Housing Finance Inc. (BHF) for a permanent moratorium on home foreclosure after the holiday is over. This month, his request for moratorium will expire and BHF might start with its foreclosure proceed- ings for delinquent homeowners. The Mayor, however, admitted that he is helpless with the situation and that only President Arroyo and Congress can solve the foreclosure problem in his locality. He can only request for extension or maybe, a permanent moratorium, but, he cannot really force them if the mortgage company will do otherwise. The BHF is currently foreclosing more than 6,000 homes of delinquent owners. House Speaker Prospero Nograles said that indeed, the problem with Balikatan is a national issue that could only be settled by the national government. The complexity involves a transac- tion where a local financial entity has sold non-performing assets of great magnitude to a foreign investor. The House is now investigating BHF and Speaker Nograles has promised to find the solution. In the meantime, he has warned the Balikatan not to keep on with its foreclosures especially in this city.

Pinoy Herald is looking for volunteer writers / columnists and photographers. Share your talent and time... that’s your greatest gift to mankind. email us at : [email protected] 5 COMMUNITY NEWS January 5, 2009

New Year Countdown in Virginia: (Standing First Row, L-R) Tim Ross, Nestor Beljano, Al Bau- tista, Rosita Golatas, Marian Omana, Samera Lao, May Moraleda, Thelma Tabifanca, Neil Bara- Christmas in Potomac, Maryland with Mrs. Rosario B. Uy (Seated, second row, third from left) as the sona. (Seated Second Row, L-R) Pen Lao, Vicky Ross, Lina Datuharon, Beth Entirino, Marivic hostess. Barasona, Rochelle Barasona, Cathy Benigno. (Seated Third Row, L-R) Eva Snaith, Cathy Bel- jano, Mercy Beljano, Nora Abdulnaser, Rose Chomling, Melba Mapalo, Vhema Chomling. (Seated Front, L-R) Karen and Siren Vitalicio

New Year Countdown in Maryland: (Standing, L-R) Ramon Hilario, John and Jean Riel, Eryl and Marc Salazar. (Seated, L-R) Allan Riel, Alicia Hilario, Dinara and Bebot Riel

New Year Countdown in Washington, DC: (Standing, L-R) Lorenzo Antiporda, Sean Brown, Jason Chou from Korea, Evelyn Ebuenga. (Seated, L-R) Monica Cushman, Aurora Antiporda and her son June Antiporda Ana Calizo & Joan Kate Salvacion (Community Service Directors)

Trinidad and Fernando Tonolete in Europe: In the background is Leopoldskron Palace whose facade was used as the Von Trapp residence in the movie, “The Sound of Music” The Redrico family in San Jose California (L-R) Vanessa, Bryan, Myrna, Valerie, Oscar and Bruce 6 January 5, 2009

Ambassador Willy C. Gaa (3rd from right) joined Ambassador Chris Hill, Assistant Secretary of State for East Asia (5th from left) and the ASEAN Ambassador and Charges d’Affaires assigned to Filipino journalists based in Washington, DC during the Christmas Luncheon at the Ambassador’s Washington DC, in a toast to welcome the entry into force of the ASEAN Charter. Ambassador Hill residence. (Standing L-R) Consul Ariel Penaranda, Consul General Domingo “Ding” Nolasco, Rod- hosted the event at the Department of State. ney Jaleco of ABS-CBN, Rene R. Calandria of Pinoy Herald, Adolfo Paglinawan of Pinoy Global and Minister Carlos “King” Sorreta. (Seated L-R) Nonoy Mendoza of Pinoy Global, Rita Gerona-Adkins of Philippine News, Jennie Ilustre of Asian Fortune, Becky Pagsibigan of Manila Mail, Ambassador Willy Gaa, Mrs. Linda Gaa, Bing Branigin of Manila Mail, Lito Katigbak of Philippine Star.

Choir members of Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in DC and St. Michael Parish Chruch who participated during the Paskong Pinoy 2008 held at Catholic University in Washington, DC. Choir members are: Lucy Sanchez, Isabelita Pizzaro, Misty Baldoza, Bing Macariola, Tony and Denia Ca- laro and Aida Milling and others.

Ambassador Willy Gaa (standing right) during the Simbang Gabi at Our Lady of Victory in Bes- theda, Maryland

Mitch Ocampo Birthday Bash: (From L-R) Tara Sharma, Susette Ocampo, Mitch Ocampo, Ruby Ramirez, Jimmy Riel, Patrick and Ima Vallarta 7 January 5, 2009 Yul Servo is Brussels fi lm fest Best Actor Congratulations to Yul Servo for the winning Produced by Viva Digital, Torotot is directed Best Actor award for his role in Direk Maryo J. by highly-accalaimed movie director Maryo J. delos Reyes’ Torotot at the 35th Brussels Interna- delos Reyes, who is also Yul’s manager. The ditional Film Festival. rector of Brutus, Tara Illenberger, also attended He is doubly happy since his other fi lm, Bru- the fi lm fest to accept the award of Best Asian tus, was also named as the Best Asian Film dur- Film. Shot in Oriental Mindoro, this Cinemala- ing the fi lmfest. ya 2008 entry is about Mangyan children who “Tuwang-tuwa ako kasi bago binanggit yung transport illegal logs by fl oating them down the Best Actor parang sabi ng jury, hindi sila nahi- Lisap River. Yul played the role of a doctor- rapan sa pagpili sa akin kasi lahat sila nag-agree. turned-NPA leader who accompanies the two Lahat ng international jury. Natuwa ako, habang children. lumalakad ako, parang nanginginig yung tuhod More than 25 countries participated in the ko...parang aatakihin din ako, e. Nagpapalpitate 35th edition of the Brussels IFF. This competi- yung puso ko,” he recalls. tion, which started in 1974, has already recog- In Torotot, Yul plays a man who suspects that nized Yul in the past. his wife (Precious Adona) is having an affair with In the 2002 edition of the Brussels IFF, Yul another man. His best friend (played by Baron shared the Best Actor award with Joel Torre for Geisler) had previously committed a crime of the fi ve-hour fi lm Batang West Side. This Lav passion when he murdered his wife (played by Diaz fi lm also bagged the Best Picture trophy Maui Taylor). that year. (By ABS –CBN Pinoy Global Online)

No rice shortage this 2009 So is now RP’s youngest GM BINALONAN, Pangasinan – With the Na- production,” she said. Wesley So became the world’s sev- tional Food Authority (NFA) palay procurement Pangasinan is the third biggest palay produc- enth youngest grandmaster of all time program on track, President Gloria Macapagal- ing province in the country. and the Philippines’ youngest at age 14 Arroyo today expressed optimism that the coun- NFA Administrator Jesus Navarro lauded the years, one month and 28 days, accord- try will not experience a rice shortage in 2009. President for her strong support to the palay pro- ing to an offi cial statement issued by She said the rice supply is expected to remain curement program. the National Chess Federation of the stable in the coming year following the expansion In Pangasinan alone, the Arroyo administra- Philippines (NCFP) on Friday. of the government’s palay procurement program, tion has released about P1 billion for the pro- So completed his GM norm by resulting in a hefty increase in the country’s in- curement of palay and help the farmers cope drawing his ninth and fi nal round match ventory of the cereal. with the high prices of farm inputs. against GM Ehsan Ghaem Maghami of “Inaasahan natin na walang krisis sa bigas sa At present, the NFA has already bought some Iran in the third Prospero Pichay Cup susunod na taon,” the President said as she per- 1.10 million bags of palay from the farmers, ex- International Open chess champion- sonally witnessed the palay procurement activity ceeding the agency’s procurement target of one ship at the Duty Free Fiesta Mall in in Barangay Pinagnagnarvacanan here. million bags for the four-month period ending ParañaqueCity. The President made the statement after she this month. The Filipino chess prodigy, playing inspected the NFA warehouse here this noon “This is the highest accomplishment of the white, and Maghami agreed to a draw and saw for herself the continuing buildup of the NFA as we’ve been able to more than double our after only 19 moves of a Sicilian Def- agency’s palay inventory. palay procurement from 400,000 bags before,” fense, Najdorf Variation. So accepted To further enhance palay production here, the Navarro said. the Iranian’s offer of a draw after less President said the government will prioritize the The NFA has 14 warehouses and seven mo- than two hours of play. implementation of irrigation projects in Pangas- bile buying stations in the province which buy “Masayang-masaya po ako,” So inan. clean and dry palay with 14 percent moisture said. “Magandang pamasko na ito sa “For irrigation project, No. 1 priority natin content and a minimum of 95 percent purity at akin.” gey Karjakin of Ukraine (12 years old and seven ang Pangasinan to boost the province’s palay P17 per kilogram. Overall, So fi nished with six points and be- months), Parimarjan Negi of India (13 years, came the second player to earn his GM title since three months, and 22 days), Magnus Carlsen of former Surigao del Sur Rep. Prospero Pichay took Norway (13 years, three months and 27 days), Bu over as NCFP president. Xiangzhi of China (13 years, 10 months and 13 Last September, Darwin Laylo earned his GM days), Teimour Radjabov of Azerbaijan (14 years title by fi nishing seventh in the sixth Asian Indi- and 14 days), and Ruslan Ponomariov of Ukraine vidual Chess Championship held at the Cebu In- (14 years, 17 days). ternational Convention Center in Mandaue City. The Filipino champion dislodged GM Etienne “This is really a memorable year for local Bacrot of France, who earned his GM title at age chess. We produced not only one but two GMs in 14 years and two months, into seventh place in a span of three months and we are confi dent we the all-time list. can have more GMs next year,” Pichay said. Offi cially, So also became the country’s eighth Tagaytay City Mayor Abraham “Bambol” – and youngest – GM. Tolentino, who’s also NCFP secretary-general, He joins the elite list which also include Eu- congratulated So, adding the young Filipino’s gene Torre (1974), the late Rosendo Balinas achievement is unprecedented in local chess. (1976), Rogelio Antonio Jr. (1998), Buenaven- So, a sophomore high school student of St. tura “Bong “ Villamayor (2000), Nelson Mariano Francis College in Bacoor, Cavite, nailed earned (2004), Mark Paragua (2005) and Laylo. his fi rst GM norm in the Bad Wiesse Open in IM Julio Catalino Sadorra also earned his fi rst Germany in November, 2006 and his second GM GM result after drawing with Gm Dao Thien Hai norm in the World Junior Chess Championships of Vietnam , while Deniel Causo clinched his fi rst in Yerevan, Armenia, last September. IM norm following an upset victory over Laylo. The world’s youngest GMs in history are Ser- –(GMANews.TV) 8 January 5, 2009 PGMA releases P2M for Task force 211 Elaine Quijano shines as Roxas City -- President Gloria Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipi- the victim`s families, said Justice Un- Macapagal?Arroyo has released funds nas (KBP/Association of Broadcasters dersecretary and concurrent Task Force in excess of P2 million to cover Task of the Philippines), Philippine Center 211 Chairman Ricardo R. Blancaflor, CNN’s White House reporter Force 211 expenses for the rest of the for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ) and who denies accusations that the govern- Filipina-American Elaine Qui- year. The allocation also comes with the Philippine Press Institute (PPI). The ment is not lifting a finger to address jano is one of CNN’s most important a Presidential Press Freedom Fund PPFF amount will be used for legal in- the issue of media killings. Task Force reporters, as she covers the most pow- (PPFF) in the amount of P1.5 million vestigation, witness protection, research 211 or the Task Force Against Political erful head of state in the world. Qui- which was approved by Malacañang and forensic capability building costs. Violence has utilized a short messag- jano is the White House correspondent in consultation with Freedom Fund for Meanwhile, Task Force 211 has suc- ing service (09274022709) to solicit for CNN, responsible for covering the Filipino Journalists (FFFJ) representa- cessfully worked on some media kill- everyone`s support and cooperation to activities of the president and the ad- tives. FFFJ is composed of media orga- ings cases especially the new incidents further succeed in its objective of re- ministration, domestically and inter- nizations in the country like the Center that had transpired since its creation in solving extra legal killings and political nationally. Named to this position in for Community Journalism and Devel- November 2007. The speedy resolution violence cases in the country. It can also January 2006, she is based in the net- opment (CCJD), Center for the Media of media killings were realized because be reached through its email address, work’s Washington, D.C. bureau. Ac- Freedom and Responsibility (CMFR), of the complete and full cooperation of [email protected]. (PIA) cording to the CNN website, Quijano growth next year would come from the joined CNN New source in December RP’s Economic Sustainability agriculture sector because of the gains 2000 as a Washington, D.C.-based of the government`s FIELDS project correspondent and in 2004, became a and lower fertilizer and oil prices. The general assignment correspondent for Plan Crucial to GDP Growth in ‘09 Department of Agriculture`s FIELDS, CNN/U.S. MANILA (PNA) -- Government mentum if not even grow further next meant to improve farm output stands Since 2000, Quijano has filed economic planners are optimistic that year,`` he said. The attainability of target for Fertilizer, Irrigation and other rural reports on such stories as the inaugu- robust growths of domestic sectors as growth may depend on both domestic infrastructure, Education and extension ration of President George W. Bush, well as the benefits of the P300-billion and external factors, Recto added, but, work, Loans, Dryers and other post-har- Bush’s 2005 trips to Asia and Argen- Elaine Quijano (photo source cnn. economic sustainability plan could en- expressed confidence that an economic vest facilities, and Seeds. Arroyo said tina, the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, the com) able the Philippine economy to grow at sustainability plan could help the coun- the manufacturing sector would also Washington, D.C.-area sniper pursuit the pace of 3.7 to 4.7 percent in 2009 try maintain gains it has enjoyed for spur growth next year because of lower and capture as well as the continuing coastline and in February 2003, she from this year`s 4.1 to 4.6 percent. Na- years. `Ìt`s not a matter of approving production cost and better domestic de- coverage of the on-going war on ter- was part of the team of correspondents tional Economic and Development Au- the P300 billion (plan), the idea really mand brought about by lower prices. rorism. that covered the Space Shuttle Co- thority (NEDA) Director General Ralph is how do you utilize the budget more He said that the opening of the $200- Throughout the 2004 election year, lumbia tragedy. Quijano joined CNN Recto projected the economy growing at efficiently, how do you stretch every billion Halal industry and the projected Quijano traveled with Bush, covering New source after working as a general 4.6 to 5 percent this fourth quarter with peso in the budget to save and create pick up of the mining sector could also the campaign trail, his time in Wash- assignment reporter for WFTS-TV in personal consumption and lower infla- jobs, how do you protect and increase help achieve higher GDP growth next ington, D.C., Crawford, Texas and Tampa, Fla. Before that, she worked tion rate driving the growth. The GDP people`s income by lowering inflation, year. ‘The public construction and even stops throughout the United States. as a reporter/producer for WCIA-TV already averaged 4.6 percent in the first and how do you further strengthen the private construction is picking up. BPO In the spring of 2003, Quijano travelled in Champaign, Ill. Quijano earned a three quarters. ``With 4.6 percent GDP domestic economy. These are the is- (business process outsourcing), OFWs to Kuwait City, where she remained Bachelor of Science degree from the in the third quarter, we were still able to sues really in the Philippine economic (overseas Filipino workers), tourism for one month to report on the war University of Illinois. create 861,000 jobs year-on-year --that sustainability plan,`` he explained. and lower interest rates of Pag-IBIG in Iraq for CNN. During September ( Article courtesy of goodnewspilipi- shows we are still much better-off. The Dennis Arroyo, director of NEDA`s loans are factors pushing up private 2003, Quijano reported live as Hurri- nas.com) idea now is to be able to sustain this mo- National Planning and Policy Staff, said construction,‘ he added. (PNA) cane Isabel lashed the North Carolina

9 January 5, 2009 RP needs to burnish human rights image President Arroyo will have to nizations. egation told a Senate panel that over in Foreign Military Finance (FMF) as- the right foot with the new Obama ad- clean up her adminis-tration’s human President Arroyo is trying to revive 800 church workers, journalists, union sistance in 2007 and $29.7 million this ministration. rights record if she’s going to deal ef- separate peace talks with the CPP-NPA organizers and peasant leaders fell year. For 2009, the State Department The source analyzed that Obama’s fectively with the Obama administra- and the MILF. Last Dec. 5, informal victim to extrajudicial killings under is asking for only $15 million. roots in community- organizing work tion, a ranking Philippine official in negotiations collapsed with Filipino the Arroyo administration. “The Philippines is on the front- and revealing declarations during Washington, D.C. indicated. “This is communist leaders in Oslo, Norway. But, Philippine Human Rights lines in the war on terror,” the State the presidential debate suggested he, certainly going to be one of the ma- A Memorandum of Agreement on Chairperson, Leila de Lima claimed Department report said. probably aided by a Democratic Con- jor issues, considering Obama’s past Ancestral Domain with the MILF was earlier this month that the number It promised continued support for gress - would be a champion of human declarations and his background,” the all ready to be signed in Kuala Lam- of extrajudicial killings is down in Philippine defense reforms because it rights. He also cited Obama’s opposi- official told the Pinoy Herald. pur, Malaysia until Arroyo suddenly 2007 and 2008. “The Philippines has will “sustain counter-terrorism capa- tion to the Colombian trade agreement Efforts to improve human rights in backed out. The Supreme Court sub- achieved significant peace, develop- bility and is crucial to strengthen com- after criticizing the government’s poor the Philippines have been stymied by sequently ruled the aborted accord un- ment and security enforcement gain, mand and control necessary to prevent human rights record. a three-pronged war, with the commu- constitutional. but, armed conflict, widespread cor- extra-judicial killings and prosecute But, they are not too worried, the nist New People’s Army (NPA), the At a Christmas luncheon with lo- ruption, weak rule of law, extra-judi- those responsible”. official stressed, confident that the secessionist Moro Islamic Liberation cal journalists, Ambassador Willy Gaa cial killings and poor economic com- The decline, however, is across the Arroyo administration’s gains against Front (MILF) and the Al-Qaeda-in- said they are focusing their sights in petitiveness continue to undermine board. Total US foreign aid to the Phil- extrajudicial killings and abuses are spired Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) and 2009 to the struggle for Filipino veter- the effectiveness of governance and ippines is projected to decline from real. Jemaa Islamiya (JI). Just last week, the ans’ equity and winning approval for create conditions that terrorists seek to $113 million in 2007 to $99.2 million The Philippines also continues to Communist Party of the Philippines about $800 million in poverty-fight- exploit,” the State Department justifi- next year. be a staunch ally in the war on terror (CPP) marked its 40th anniversary ing financial aid from the Millennium cation for 2009 foreign aid read. Most striking is the apparent shift and an important trade partner. – making it one of the longest-running Challenge Corporation. Arroyo’s opponents have tried to in the emphasis of US aid to the Phil- He said they are confident that when insurgencies in the world. The CPP is tie up US military aid to adherence to ippines. In 2007, the country received the new Obama administration takes the political arm of the 5,000-strong FIGHTING PERCEPTIONS human rights. $15.4 in development assistance. By over the reins of government, they will NPA. Bombs killed two and wounded The Pinoy Herald source insisted The State Department had wanted next year, this is expected to grow to see the full gamut of RP-US relations over 40 others in two Iligan City malls, that like the corruption issue, the coun- to give the Philippines a substantially $56.7 million. and decide it would be good all around just days before Christmas. try’s negative human rights image was lower military aid this year, until a vig- to keep those relations warm. The US classifies the CPP-NPA, brought about mainly by bad percep- orous lobby on Capitol Hill restored BALANCING THE EQUATION “In statecraft, there is always give- ASG and JI as foreign terrorist orga- tion. In March 2007, a Philippine del- the cut. The US gave $39.7 million The Philippines is eager to start on and-take,” he explained.(RJJ) UNSC Resolution on Maritime Piracy Hailed as Milestone MANILA(PNA) - A United Na- adoption of the resolution by the UN combating piracy as a crime against mando-style retrieval of hostages may Somalia, since the spate of piracy tions resolution on the `ùse of all Security Council (UNSC) authorizing the law of nations,’ said DFA Under- not be acceptable because it could in April this year. Ninety-one more means`` in the Horn of Africa, where greater international cooperation to secretary Esteban Conejos Jr. put the lives of seamen at risk. Last Filipinos, aboard six other vessels, a series of maritime piracy attacks this use all means of repression and pre- Ambassador Hilario Davide Jr., week, 17 Filipino crew members of are still held captive inside a Somali year has victimized vessels with Fili- vent piracy in the area, including land Philippine permanent representative the Greek-owned bulk carrier “M/V port village and negotiations for their pino crew members, is `à milestone operations- which also encompasses to the United Nations in New York, Captain Stefanos” were freed by their release are still ongoing. It is widely against piracy as a crime against the the notorious Gulf of Aden. has not given his reaction yet, but, it Somali captors. They were the latest known that the shipping principals pay law of nations,`` the Department of ‘The Philippines, as a member of is well documented that he has been Filipinos to be released by pirates, multi-million dollar ransoms for the Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Thursday. the community of nations, welcomes pushing for its adoption. The Philip- mostly Somali criminals, out of about releases. (PNA) The DFA was reacting to the recent the UNSC resolution as a milestone in pine position, however, is that a com- 180 seized off the Gulf of Aden, near Training of public school teachers benefits child laborers MANILA (PNA) -- Education Secretary Jesli ative practice.” DepEd has vigorously pursued Lapus on Tuesday said that some 30,000 child non-traditional programs to bring children back laborers are expected to benefit from a training to school, specially those burdened by difficult of public school teachers on how to combat child circumstances. Part of DepEd’s commitment is to exploitation spearheaded by the World Vision increase the participation and retention rates of Development Foundation (WVDF) and the De- public school children. partment of Education (DepEd). “Through this WVDF executive director Elnora Avarientos training, our teachers will be better equipped to identified that child labor is particularly rampant empower the working children, out-of-school in commercial agriculture (sugarcane plantation), youth, and children at risk and help improve the domestic work, pyrotechnics business, mining, quality of their lives,” Lapus said. He said that quarrying, sexual exploitation and scavenging. Metro Manila and the provinces of Bulacan, Ca- Last December 2-4, the teacher-trainees had marines Norte, Cebu, Compostela Valley, Davao, completed “Module 1: The Teacher as a Re- Davao del Sur, Iloilo, Leyte, Negros Occiden- searcher,” where they were introduced to the sig- tal, and Negros Oriental are areas with a high nificance of research and planning and program- prevalence of the worst forms of child labor. The ming based on data. The upcoming modules are training of 40 teachers who comprised the first Module 2: The Teacher as an Advocate and Net- batch runs from Dec 2, 2008 to May 22, 2009 in work Builder – on February 2-6, 2009; Module Ecotech in Lahug, Cebu City. 3: The Teacher as a Direct Service Worker, slated The training will enhance the teachers’ capaci- on March 23-27, 2009; Module 4: The Teacher as ties in five aspects of social development namely a Chronicler for April 27-30, 2009; and Module research, advocacy, networking, direct service 5: The Training of Trainers’ Workshop on May and documentation. The training series will de- 18-22, 2009. velop among the teachers a deeper understand- Daphne Culanag, project director of the ing of the child labor issue and the importance ABK2 Initiative, explained that the fifth module of education as intervention. It is part of the is a culmination of the participants’ learning from ABK2 Initiative or “Pag-aaral ng mga Bata Para the series. “This module will equip teachers with sa Kinabukasan.” Its project associates include skills in crafting a training design, facilitating, Christian Children’s Fund (CCF) and Education and conducting training programs. By the end of Research Development Assistance Foundation this experience, the teacher-trainees are ready to (ERDA). Lapus added: “Educating our teachers, execute their own training programs as well,” she the community and the children on the menace said. of child labor is very critical to stop this exploit- 10 January 5, 2009 Holy Cross Academy Alumni Class 1984 hosts this year’s HCCC Grand Alumni Homecoming Every year the alumni of Holy famous Philippine festivals. The pa- Cross Academy of Carigara, Leyte, rade will showcase revelry, rhythmic Philippines (now Holy Cross College drumbeats, colors, music, and size of Carigara) celebrate Easter Sunday in festivals such as Sinulog of Cebu, with much fun and excitement. On the Moriones of Marinduque, Ati-atihan same day that Christ’s resurrection of Aklan, Panagbenga of Baguio, Hi- is observed, the alumni hold its an- gantes of Rizal, Pintados of Leyte, nual homecoming. Graduates of Holy Pahiyas of Quezon, and Masskara Cross Academy anywhere in the world of Negros, -- an occasion promoting make every effort to return home to awareness of Filipino cultural diver- celebrate the occasion; joining the tra- sity while fostering camaraderie and ditional float parade, sharing hidden brotherhood among alumni. talents, and reminiscing high school Eugene B. Macalalag, president days. of the host class, says the 36th Grand On April 12, 2009 the Alumni Class Alumni Homecoming will be more 1984 will host the traditional grand colourful and vivacious. All gradu- alumni homecoming with the theme: ates of HCCC are invited to come Philippine Festivals – Celebrations home and join the tradition, especially �� in One! The occasion, which will run members of the host class. for several days, will highlight the �� For comments and suggestions �� e-mail us at [email protected] or [email protected] HCA Class of 1984 in action ��

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�� e-mail:�� [email protected] ��website: �� www.cgardensal.com �� 11 �� TSIKAHAN Ni Rica Machika January 5, 2009 Unofficial Box Office Gross of MMFF According to our Chika, the movie “Ang Tanging Ina N’yong Lahat” is top 1 sa partial and unofficial Box Office Gross of Metro Manila Film Festival. The movie has earned P41 million on its second day. Oh, anong say mo, bonggang-bongga si Wenn Deramas. Kulilat naman ang movie na “Magkaibigan” with a mere record of P1 million. This is the unofficial tally so far, and be the judge who’s gonna win and which movie appeals to the general public/viewers so to speak.

1. ANG TANGING INA N’YONG LAHAT P41 MILLION 2. ISKUL BUKOL P35.6 MILLION 3. SHAKE, RATTLE & ROLL X P22.9 MILLION 4. BALER P15.2 MILLION 5. DESPERADA P12.5 MILLION 6. ONE NIGHT ONLY P2.7 MILLION 7. DAYO P2.2 MILLION 8. MAGKAIBIGAN P1 MILLION Karylle kapalit ni Heart

Talagang and talas ng dila ng ating source, It looks like Heart Evangelista is over and Karylle is ofﬁcially in. It was reported that Jericho Rosales is serious about Zsa Zsa Padilla’s daughter. Kinuha daw ni Jericho ang number ni Karylle at ito daw ang ipapalit kay Heart. Wow, para lang siyang nagpalit ng damit, feeling ni Jericho super guwapo siya. Mula daw makuha ni lalaki ang number ni Karylle, hindi na daw ito tumigil sa katatawag.

Jericho Rosales Boy Abunda to Roxanne – no contract with love Karylle Heart Sinabi ni Boy Abunda sa The Buzz, “we cannot have a contract with love”, com- menting on what Roxanne Guinoo said that whenever she falls in love, one year na lang muna. Kris Aquino and Ruffa Gutierrez are in agreement. Kris reiterated that there should be a strong foundation before going into relation- ship. Look who’s talking. Feeling ni Kris at Ruffa, perfect ladies sila, if only chika knows, baka abot langit ang taas ng kilay niya. Si Boy Abunda feeling niya siya ay fulﬁlled lover or counselor, or maybe Kuya Boy is talking based on experience... chariiiiiiiiiiing Jennylyn to Patrick, kahit lumuha ka pa ng dugo Boy Abunda Roxanne Guinoo Jennylyn Mercado and Patrick Garcia are indeed going nasty with their baby. Pokwang no rush for love According sa chika, kahit pa daw lumuha Pokwang’s celebrity status has come ng dugo si Patrick, hindi daw niya makikita through constant prayers. Though she ang kanyang anak kay Jennylyn. Hindi daw admits that she never thought even in Roxanne Guinoo ipapakita ang bata. Ganon, well Jenny - I her wildest dreams that she will be one guess Patrick can wait, siguro naman paglumaki na yong bata hindi mo na ito mapipigilan kung of the most in-demand comediennes gusto niyang Makita ang kanyang Daddy. in the industry. If anyone doubts her celebrity status, watch lang kayo diyan because her out of town appearances and comedy shows are all sold out. Anong say mo Inday. Ang taray niya di ba? It’s not “beauty lies in the hands of the beholder” but it’s the gift of gab on stage or kahit behind the curtain. She never expected her fame to be this big but “pinagdarasal ko”. She credits her fame and success through prayers. With her popularity soaring so high, the ever-talented Wowowee host seems to be in no rush for love. In her interview Pokwang though ABS-CBN, Pokwang confesses, “Hindi ko hinahanap eh, kasi sabi nila darating daw ‘yon kapag talagang tamang oras, so hihintayin ko na lang.” Hoooooyyyyy bakla, baka hintayin mo Patrick Garcia pang pumuti ang buhok mo, talagang wala ka ng mahahanap na “mujer”, na papatol sa beauty mo.

Jennelyn Mercado For more chika visit www.showbizjuice.com 12 January 5, 2009 How the world welcomed 2009

13 EDITORIAL January 5, 2009 Light at the end of the tunnel? The year 2008 has recently been embedded in the long annals of history. Like any previous years, 2008 was one full of ups and downs. However, un- like its recent predecessors, the past year may well be remembered as one of the worst in recent history. Although we could never discount the numerous breakthroughs in a number fronts, 2008 would always be dominated by the talk of the crippling economic crisis that brought the world to its knees. As the world brings down the curtains on what was truly a momentous year, in one way or the other, people could only sit down and reflect on everything the relatively little that was gained and the many things that was lost. To say the least, the economic downturn shook the foundations of the globalized world and threatened to ruin every single gain that was achieved during the past years. Corporate heavyweights fell like leaves in the face of the most formidable storm that the economy has faced ever since the infamous “Great Depression”. The whole story is a fairly long one and quite simply, it is one of the darkest chapters in human history. However, even with all the negative talk of the economic recession, the momentous triumph of Illinois Senator and now US President-elect Barack Obama in the 2008 US Presidential Election is sure to become a major talking point of 2008. The soon to be first black US President truly embodies the “change” that he has promised every voter during his arduous, but, fruitful campaign. To say the least, Obama would be left with a mess to clean up when he assumes the top post in 2009, mostly because of the legacy that would be left by his departing predecessor. Outgoing US President George W. Bush led the world’s recognized superpower into the global war on terror in 2000, yet, more than 8 years afterwards, the ultimate victory that he promised is still nowhere to be found. The final outcome of the war remains to be seen, with the Democratic assumption of the White House likely to result in the pull-out of US forces in Iraq. However, the war that resulted in the loss of thousands of lives, and not to mention, of billions of dollars, would surely haunt Bush’s reign as chief executive. The humiliation he suffered in his final visit to Iraq only serves to highlight the medium of in- He further elaborated that the English failure of an extremely righteous person who tried to change the world, but, INTO REALITY struction both in bill was anti-education and anti-poor, found the job to be formidable beyond imagination. elementary and since most of the needy would find Back in the Philippines, people would remember 2008 as a year filled with secondary with it hard learning the fundamentals of controversy and instability, although Filipinos continue to rejoice the meteoric By Cecile V. Malabanan the medium to many subjects through the use of a rise of “People’s Champion” Manny “Pac-Man” Pacquiao. The embattled Ar- be used in col- language foreign to them. In a sepa- royo administration has been rocked by claims of corruption and illegitimacy, Is english the lege mandated rate bill being pushed by Rep. Guni- with the ZTE-NBN broadband deal and the fertilizer fund scandal seriously by the Commis- gundo, Filipino and English would be threatening the dominion of Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. So far, PGMA has key to global sion on Higher taught as separate subjects, making skillfully dodged the scandals, yet, 2009 could prove to be a different story. Education (CHED). In so doing, stu- students proficient not in one, but, in Talk of Charter Change continue to hit the waves of Philippine society, and it competitiveness? dents are expected to become more both languages. He also said that chil- remains to be seen, if it would ever go away. English is the “lingua-franca” or adept to the language, making them a dren taught in English would merely In sum, 2008 would be remembered as a year that was dominated more the trade language around the glo- lot more equipped for the competition parrot what their teachers would tell by hardships and scandals than success and progress. However, events that balized world. It is also the adopted that they would face in the global job them without really understanding the marked the past year could potentially prove the resilience of the amazing second language of the Filipinos. In market. concepts being taught to them. How- human race. Challenges are still to be tackled, but, we are one in the belief the years that passed, Filipinos were However, the above-mentioned bill ever, Gunigundo further explained that there light at the end of the tunnel, and better times are just around the known to be good and eloquent speak- is facing tough opposition from Valen- that implementing a mother tongue- corner. ers of the English language. However, zuela Rep. Magtanggol Gunigundo, based multi-lingual education entails at present, the country currently ranks who promises to fight tooth and nail numerous expenses since it required very low in the facility and proficiency to stop the bill. He claims that chil- the government to revamp the school of the language globally. In line with dren should first learn the basics well curriculums. and this would only happen if they Is English literacy and proficiency Rene R. Calandria this, Filipinos find it very hard to be Editor-in-chief employed abroad due to their inability are taught in their own native tongue. really the key to a nation’s global com- Cecile V. Malabanan Rodney Jaleco to converse fluently in English. Even With a strong educational foundation, petitiveness, much more, its progress Associate Editor News Editor locally speaking, many of our fellow Gunigundo believes that they would and advancement? Angelo Miguel Calabio Ramon Zerrudo countrymen have been finding it hard be better equipped to learn more Some say yes, while some say no. Sports and Campus Editor Managing Editor to land jobs in call centers, which is skills and languages alike. According It’s really relative on how we view the COLUMNISTS presently, one of the leading industries to the Valenzuela Representative, the whole situation. Just like anything, Melodie Alejandro (Maryland) Agapito Santa Ana (Florida) in the country. The difficulty being Philippines should not aspire to end there are advantages and disadvantag- E.P. Dakanay (Manila) Fernando Tonolete Esq. (Virginia) up as a country of call center special- es that go with it. It’s indeed a great as- Hermie L. Climaco (WA, DC) Rudy Viernes (California) faced by some of our fellow Filipinos ists, citing the vision as being badly set to be conversant in the English lan- Atty. Dominic Pami (Manila) Nesthel Flores (Technology) has been their inability to speak the Mars Rivera (Seattle, Wa) language well. Professionals and even short-sighted. Instead, he believes guage. Yet, is it the only thing needed Marione Luis C. Garcia (Cartoonist) college students have a tremendous that we should aspire to be a country to make the Philippines prosper? Marlyn Hall Myrna V. Riel difficulty speaking and writing in cor- of highly-skilled workers who will Name your stand. Your claim is as Marketing Director Advertising Director rect English. Thus, there is indeed a market their services, not themselves. good as mine. Michelle Buencamino great decadence in Philippine society Art Director as a result of which moreso, in Philip- Pinoy Herald inc. publisher pine education. Advertising In this regard, there is currently a Editorial Marlyn -703 436 2745 P.O. Box 4972 [email protected] bill pending in the House of Represen- Falls Curch, VA 22044 tatives seeking the use of English as tel: 571 276 1464 Subscriptions email: [email protected] / the medium of instruction in elemen- Myrna - 301 728 6063 [email protected] tary schools. According to lawmakers, [email protected] specifically Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gul- website: www.pinoyherald.org las, the passage of the English bill is Pinoy Herald is a Bi-monthly newspaper in the Metro Washington DC and Mid-At- direly needed for Filipino workers to lantic area and is licensed in the State of Virginia. Pinoy Herald accepts contribu- be proficient in the language so as to tions from anyone who may want to share their opinions, stories and news articles. stay competitive in job markets here All articles submitted to Pinoy Herald are that of the author/s opinion and do not and abroad. necessarily reflect that of the editorial staff. All articles are subject to editing to VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT www.pinoyherald.org comply with the editorial policies of the paper. The bill states that English be the 14 KURO-KURO January 5, 2009 COGITO

By Rene R. Calandria FAST FOOD FOR THOUGHT Evangelicals’ By Rudy M. Viernes Homophobic Attitude Smile your asset I started to loosen up with life after issue rather than biological. I do not A Smile is an asset that could con- song,”Do you smile to tempt a lover smile. Of course, one looks more ap- I decided to join the print media be- believe that there is a biological basis vince and make you friends and influ- Mona Lisa, or is it your way to hide a pealing and very much prettier smil- cause of the freedom that comes along for being gay because it is purely so- ence people. This line is from Dale broken heart?” ing than frowning. with my job. I want to think “freely cial. There are several social factors Carnegie’s bestseller. He said it takes One of the most radiant faces in And the whole world seems to in the sky” and be more moderate in (from early on) in a child’s life that twenty-seven face muscles to form a heaven is that of Francis of Assisi. smile all around front desk personnel, my approach to the phenomenon of influence his/her sexual orientation. frown, and only eight to make a smile. Francis was known as the saint with receptionists of hotels, restaurants, life. Although I started identifying Although, it is social influence that de- Anger shoots up the blood pressure the “smile of the century.” He once banks, or GRO’s and sales people. my values with the liberals, but, I have fines the child’s sexual preference in and force more muscles of the face to told a tired, dismal-faced vineyard TV commercials, printed ads and not assimilated the activism of the ex- future life, it does not mean that being work and what you see is grouch. worker to always display a cheerful posters abound with toothsome en- treme right movement because it is not gay is sinful. The sinfulness of being Another sage Edgar A. Guest said: mien because it does not become a dorsers who not only create a positive healthy for the society as a whole. I gay is not only a trademark doctrine of “Sometimes the joy is the source of disciple of God to look somber and image of their personalities but mirror have also been exposed to the ideas of the Evangelicals, but, also of the Cath- your smile, but sometimes your smile disturbed before his fellow workers. their products, services or establish- the conservatives and have practiced olic Church. I beg to disagree with this can be the source of your joy.” Smile is light and light is God ments. For how could they sell if they them for a while, but, as I begin to conservative position of the church The Scottish novelist Robert Louis says the Scripture in John 1:5: “God look grouchy? define myself and establish my own because I am convinced that freedom Stevenson had it this way: “Smile is light in the darkness, the real light T-Mobile is riding high on Cath- style and legacy, I get more and more as a gift from God is not selective and spreads light. A smiling person is a that comes in the world and shines on erine Zeta-Jones whose smile in those uncomfortable with conservatism. restrictive, otherwise, that will contra- radiating focus of goodwill and his all mankind.” print or TV ads is so luminous and I have watched O’Reilly Factor dict God Himself. entrance into a room is as though an- The best way to dress up is to put engaging as if she is also pitching for for quite sometime (in fact, I have his There is no biological basis for be- other candle has been lit.” on a smile. Smile is an inexpensive oral-care products. book on The No Spin Zone) and tune ing gay and there is no way it could be Henry Ward Beecher said: “A way to improve your looks. Smile is An anonymous bit of wisdom says in to Fox News channel every night, determined by the medical profession. smile is the light in the window of the also a language even a child under- it all: but, I get sick and tired with too much If assuming for the sake of argument face by which the heart signifies it is stands. Haven’t you observed that A smile costs nothing but creates Republicanism. I get along fine with that there is, then, the Church has just at home and waiting.” when you smile at a baby she smiles much. It enriches those who receive the “most trusted news” and am more contradicted itself. If the fetus is said We say a smile is like a spring back? without impoverishing those who at home with CNN channel. to be gay, then, let it be because that is sunshine that comes off from the cold Haven’t you noticed, too, that choir gave. I listen to 97.1 WASH FM, but, what God intends him/her to be. Any face of winter. members always smile as they per- It happens in a flash and the memo- I’m more fascinated by The Kane medical treatment and manipulation “It isn’t the face that are windows form? Their smiles do not only radiate ry of it sometimes last forever. None Show at Hot 99.5 FM Morning Mess. done by the Church/Evangelicals to of the face, it’s the smile that sur- to their audience but also enhance the are so rich that they can get along Last week’s morning segment of the the fetus is an intervention of nature rounds it” propounded Michael D. reception of the song. And you smile without it, and none so poor but are show talks briefly about a homopho- and hence, contradictory to their very Limonick. at the sweet smile of hula dancers as richer for its benefits. bic evangelical pastor from the South. own teachings. As I understand the The painting Mona Lisa, with the they sway to the lilting tune of Sweet It cannot be bought, begged, bor- The Rev. R. Albert Mohler, Jr., a pre- reverend, a serum maybe injected into quintessential smile, (some described Leilani and Lovely Hula Hands. . rowed, or stolen, for it is something eminent leader and president of South- the fetus to alter the sexual orientation it as “enigmatic”) is Leonardo da Vin- Many songwriters have composed that is no earthly good to anybody un- ern Baptist Theological Seminary in of the baby, but, is there any guarantee ci’s masterful art piece. It’s arguably songs with SMILE their theme. You til it is given away. Louisville, Kentucky, suggested a of its effectiveness? What if the baby da Vinci’s most famous painting done must have heard the Bee Gees sung If you meet someone who is too prenatal treatment for babies in order turns out to be gay? Can the mother during the Italian Renaissance in the “Smile an Everlasting Smile,” or the tired to give a smile, give him yours to reverse the gay orientation of the or father sue anyone (the doctor or 16th century. The portrait is that of Lettermen’s “Smile Though Your for nobody needs a smile so much as fetus. This idea by the reverend is not the pastor) for malpractice? What is Lisa Gherardini, wife of Francesco Heart is Aching.” “The Shadow of those who have none left to give. only ridiculous and contradictory, but, wrong with being gay? This whole del Giocondo. Your Smile” is one of the Sandpipers In other words Smile is an asset. puts mockery to the essence of being paranoia about gays is an obsolete When one is described as having favorites. But you will smile at Nat It’s like a dress or a shirt that becomes “human”. This argument is extremely misconception of pre-Vatican era and a cherry disposition she is said to King Cole’s cool version of the song, you. Spread it cheerfully because it absurd and illogical because it con- a hypocritical and self-centered theo- have the Mona Lisa smile. Speak- “Smile.” enhances your personality. A pleasant tradicts the very own statement of the ing of Mona Lisa, the legendary Nat According to medical researches smile is a winning formula to make same church which contends that be- continued on page 23 King Cole asked in his Oscar-winning the best medicines are launghter and friends and influence people. ing gay is a matter of choice and social

factors that could possibly eliminate our By Angelo Miguel M. Calabio to trade the high-octane pace of basket- notion that skill-wise, these players are BOX SCORE ball with the endless tactical battle that the best in the region. Unfortunately, re- handicap in height and athleticism. The is football. For a number of decades, sults have suggested otherwise. Barring aim is to build a team of players who Filipino players have proven the notion the odd 50-point blowouts against the would be willing to sacrifice individual that when it comes to pure skill in this lesser countries, the Philippines’ per- accolades and embrace their respective Gunning for London 2012 game of hoops, they are perhaps second formance in international competitions roles in a system that would win games. After a long-drawn saga of disap- 1972 Munich Games. The 53-year old to none. has been dismal. Constantly unable to Hopefully, after this grand project is pointments, both inside and outside the Toroman, who led the Iranian national However, our players could never go over the great hump, that is China, over, we could see a Filipino basketball hardwood, Philippine basketball has fi- team to its first ever Olympic appear- have the inherent gifts that would make and consistently ambushed by the lethal team that would never be intimidated nally awakened from its deep slumber ance in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, has the country a basketball superpower. We Koreans, the East Asians have continu- by the sight of monsters and freaks and and regained its senses after years of been tasked to develop and nurture the could never have a Filipino player that ously showed that it takes a team to win hold their own against the best in the frustration. Gone are the days of bitter country’s vast pool of untapped poten- would stand taller than Chinese giant games. With the high-flying Filipino world. power struggles, which forced FIBA tial and finally change the course of the Yao Ming, we could not have the super- stars frequently coming home empty The Olympic dream is never a fanta- to ban the country from international faltering basketball program. Basically, human athleticism of a LeBron James handed and seeing even the mighty sy, however, it takes years of hardwork competitions for a brief period, and the basketball directors have finally ad- or a Dwight Howard, and, most impor- Americans occasionally ambushed by and sacrifice to relish its splendor. heartbreaking setbacks to countries that opted a long-term strategy. tantly, we would never put together a sweet-shooting Europeans, basketball we used to manhandle inside the play- Although this piece of news would team of superhumans like the United directors have finally decided to scrap ing court. For the first time in history, hardly excite the country’s basketball- States, who, on their day, are basically the old adage and adopt the European the country’s basketball honchos have crazy population, it could prove to be unbeatable. For a number of years, the brand of play. come to realize that a long-term plan the most important step that the SBP Philippines has adopted the American The challenges that the protagonists, has long been overdue. should take if success is its ultimate model for international basketball com- Toroman in particular, are formidable, Recently, the Samahang Basketbol goal. Yes, it is an undoubted fact that petitions. Putting it simply, the best pro- but, changes have been affected to ng Pilipinas (SBP) signed up Serbian Filipinos could play the game. Per- fessional players (from the PBA) would combat such tests. Perhaps most im- coach Rajko Toroman as program di- haps, in all of Asia, the Philippines is be selected to carry the national colors portantly, players should be nurtured to rector of its ambitious basketball pro- the only nation which has not adopted and the group would train for a couple embrace the unselfish mentality, and re- gram, aimed at earning a spot in the football as its number one sport. Filipi- of months. In return, people would ex- alize that everyone in a team stands on 2012 London Olympic Games, which nos, always craving for excitement and pect this particular group to run riot and equal footing. European basketball is could be the country’s first since the non-stop action, could never be forced blow their opponents away, carrying the all about discipline and efficiency, two 2012 London Olympics logo 15 January 5, 2009

and as a road life. In short, we may be living our life IN HIS PRAISE map, to a life in bondage. Fear, jealousy, envy, im- that is better patience, unforgiveness, guilt, grudge, Schedule of Filam events for January 2009 than the pre- anger, worry, unproductive habits, be- January 09, 2009, 12:00 noon, Friday By Hermie Climaco vious year’s ing not in good terms with others, bad WBIFSA Induction of Officers life. We just relationships, financial difficulties, all Executive Private Dining Room, IMF Building have to do put us in the category of being cap- For more information, please email Swakefi[email protected] Welcoming our part. Like tives. The list is endless. in our goals Such things hinder us from claim- January 10, 2009, evening, Saturday the New Year and New ing the bountiful life that we were The Speaks Performs at 9:30 Club Year’s resolutions, we would have to meant to have. Jesus said, he came, so, 3150 V Street, NW, Washington, D.C. Last year, I wrote some stuff about act on them, if, we are serious about that we may have life and have it to the For tickets and more information, please email [email protected] “starting the year right” which includ- getting those changes and improve- full. If we see that our life is far from being ideal, something may just be not January 10, 2009, 6:00 p.m., Saturday ed prayer and thanksgiving for God’s ments in life that we look forward to 12th Sto Nino and Ati Atihan Festival 2009 bounties in the year just passed, self- have in the New Year. right with us. It’s time to examine our- Khedive Shrine Center assessment that takes stock of where There are many more things we can selves in the light of Jesus’ teachings. 645 Woodlake Dr, Chesapeake, VA., 23320 we succeeded and where we failed in do to start the year right. That depends Living a life contrary to Christian For more information, please email [email protected] areas of our life in the previous year, upon our circumstances and needs at teachings and instructions prevents us thus, guiding us to make positive the moment. It’s worthwhile to figure from receiving the full life that Jesus January 15, 2009, 6:00 p.m., Thursday changes and perhaps, better our life, in out what those things are. It helps us promised. “Through the Looking Glass: Paintings by Joey Manlapaz” the coming year and then, goal-setting see where we currently stand in life. It is time to let go of all negative Opening Reception and Meet the Artist or having New Year’s Resolutions, One of those things may include things in our life. Shed off our old Corcoran Corridor, Corcoran Gallery of Arts which covered listing down things we welcoming the Year 2009 as a new clothes and put on new ones and let us 500 17th Street, NW Washington, DC 20036 wanted to do and accomplish and to person. Some of us may have been tied welcome the year 2009 as a new per- [this artwork exhibit will run from Jan 14- Feb 25 and March 14 -29, 2009] have or acquire in the New Year. to something that makes us seem not son ready to receive only the best life For more information, please visit www.joeymanlapaz.com It is fun and worth it, to always do right with ourselves and that may be that God has in store for us. January 15, 2009, evening, Thursday the above every year as a starting point preventing us from moving forward in Filipino Young Professionals Meet and Greet Officers/Happy Hour Mezza Luna at Midtown, Washington, D.C. For more information, please email [email protected]

January 19, 2009, 7:30 pm, Monday Presidential Inauguration API Pearl Gala Mandarin Hotel, Washington, D.C. For more information, please email [email protected]

January 22, 2009, 4:30 p.m., Thursday 3rd Annual International Culture of Life – Champions for Family Award Recep- tion (to honor US Rep Joseph Pitts, Dr. Rene Bullecer, and Fr. Jerome Magat) Phoenix Park Hotel, 520 North Capitol Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20001 For more information, please email emc@ﬁlipinofamilyfund.org

January 24, 2009, 6:00 p.m., Saturday Alpha Phi Omega DC Alumni Association Induction of Ofﬁcers New Fortune Restaurant, 16515 S Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, MD 20877 For more information, please email [email protected] or santi_ [email protected]

January 28, 2009, 6:00 p.m., Wednesday Phil American Chamber of Commerce –DC Lunar Networking Socials For more information, please email: [email protected] PGMA visits Sagada’s tourist attractions SAGADA, Mountain Province Fiarod said the Hanging Coffin ibly happy President said upon reach- – President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo ritual involves forcing the body of the ing the wide entrance of the cave and took a short trek this morning to the deceased into the tight spaces of the seeing the piles of coffins inside. mystique caves in this quaint town as coffins. Bones are often broken in the Tourism Regional Director Purifi- part of her continuing effort to pro- process, he added. cacion Molintas said that aside from mote the country’s tourism industry. In olden times, the people of Saga- the caves, Sagada boasts of several “This is very interesting,“ the Pres- da preferred to “bury” their dead on other scenic natural attractions that ident said as she and other members the cliffs of mountains than in the local and foreign tourists alike would of the presidential party viewed the ground. surely love to see. coffins hanging from the cliff of the A municipality in Mountain Prov- Molintas added that there has Sagada mountain. ince north of Baguio City, Sagada is been an increase of tourist arrivals in Together with First Gentleman Jose six hours by bus from the country’s the province since the completion of Miguel Arroyo, son Diosdado “Dato,” summer capital via the Halsema High- Phase One of the Halsema Highway congressman of the first district of way, passing through Benguet prov- rehabilitation project stretching from Camarines Sur; daughter Lulli, grand- ince. Baguio City to Mount Data, Bauko in daughters Mikaela and Monique, and From the Hanging Coffins, the Mountain province. some special guests, the presidential President and her party proceeded to She expressed optimism that local party first stopped to view the Hang- the Lumiang Burial Cave, where 80 to tourism would be further boosted with ing Coffins. 100 coffins are kept. the completion of Phases Two and Ray Fiarod, an official of the De- “That burial site is a private one. Three of the Halsema Highway rehab partment of Interior and Local Gov- They belong to one clan and only those program and the improvement of the ernment (DILG) assigned in Sagada, belonging to that clan are allowed to Bontoc-Tabuk-Tuguegarao road sec- said that the caves serve as the final be buried there,” Fjarod told the First tion. President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo points to the piles of coffins kept inside the resting place of deceased Sagada folks Family. The President has made the reha- Lumiang Burial Cave during her visit to Sagada Monday (Dec. 29) as part of after the Hanging Coffin ritual. Not content with viewing the burial bilitation of several road networks in her efforts to promote tourism in the area and other parts of the country. At right “After the deceased are put inside place from afar, the First Family and the Cordillera a priority project of her is Ray Fiarod of the Derpartment of Interior and Local Government (DILG) the coffins, they are brought to caves their guests bravely trekked down the administration to accelerate the eco- who is assigned in the Municipality of Sagada in Mountain Province. (Rico high in the cliffs where they join the 500-meter trail to the cave. nomic development and promote tour- Borja/OPS-NIB Photo) coffins of their ancestors,” he said. “This is really wonderful,” a vis- ism in the area. 16 January 5, 2009 IMMIGRATION SESSION INK SPOTS FROM MANILA islation. In order to succeed in grabbing By Fernando Tonolete Esq. one of these visas, one will need to be By E.P. Dakanay, Jr. With a literacy rate of 96%, one of the 65,000, with ready to file an application for submis- Manny Pacquiao’s grand birthday (DOE) had highest among developing nations, an addition- sion no later than April 1, 2009. The bash in his hometown was a fitting been remiss there is no apparent reason why Fili- al 20,000 for quantity of applications is so great that tribute to his outstanding achievement in its duty in pinos should not be the preeminent re- those with some law firms in fact position their in the world of sports. Unbowed by monitoring cipients of H1-B visas. H-1B is a non- U.S. gradu- courier service agents by the door of disadvantaged circumstances in life, he the price of immigrant visa category provided for ate degrees, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigra- is an inspiration to his fellowmen who, this com- in the Immigration & Nationality Act, and no limit tion Services agency before dawn by grit, dedication, discipline and hon- modity, so Section 101(a)(15)(H), that allows for applicants sponsored by universi- on April 1 to try to beat the rush. To est labor, would strive for their place vital to the economy when the mar- American companies and universities ties, non-profit and government re- qualify, one must be in status if in the in the sun. Admirers from all walks of keting of the product was deregulated to employ foreign workers who have search laboratories. Demand has his- US and have an employer who is will- life gathered to relish the electrifying during the Ramos years. The Ramos the equivalent of a US Bachelor’s torically outstripped supply by a wide ing to petition for the applicant. The sense of triumph he deservedly exud- administration was in such a great Degree. H-1B workers are employed margin, such that the 65,000 visas are best candidates for H1-B visas are ed. The vast majority were friends of hurry to deregulate the product before temporarily in a job category that is expected to be exhausted very quickly, those who have obtained an optional his youth, kindred of fate and humble it had developed a price-monitoring considered by the U.S. Citizenship usually within one day after its release training work permit after graduation beginnings. Sadly, a few led by Pres. scheme and in fact, there is none to & Immigration Services to be a “spe- on April 1 of every year. It remains to from college, those who are newly ar- Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (GMA), this day. Self-appointed price moni- cialty occupation”. A specialty occu- be seen if the number of H1-B visas rived in the United States with valid who occupied the honored seats, were tor, Mr. Raul Concepcion, had been at pation is one that requires theoretical will increase in 2009 under an Obama I-94 documents, and those outside the virtual “gate-crashers” into the pris- logger heads with the oil companies and practical application of a body of administration and a Democratic-con- United States who have U.S. employ- tine values of the frontier city. Their for years now. The poor fellow must specialized knowledge. For example, trolled Congress. In years past, there ers willing to petition for them. exaggerated adulation for Manny like be thoroughly exhausted. We do not architecture, engineering, mathemat- have been many futile efforts to in- Under the current law, an alien can a national hero makes a ludicrous hear much from him anymore. Sena- ics, physical sciences, social sciences, crease the number of H1-B visas to be in H-1B status for a maximum pe- caricature of our hierarchy of vir- tor Mar Roxas has taken over the chore medicine and health, education, busi- at least 100,000. Because of the then riod of six years at a time. After that tues. True, he brings positive public- of seeking a more realistic pricing for ness specialties, accounting, law, the- prevailing anti-immigrant sentiment, time an alien must remain outside the ity sorely needed by the country and diesel and gasoline which he claims to ology, and the arts may be considered no conservative legislator wanted to United States for one year before an- earns megabucks, Las Vegas style for be about 25% more than what is justi- specialty occupations. be labeled as pro-immigrant, and as a other H-1B petition can be approved. himself. No need to stretch the value fiable. Giving a semblance that he is Currently, the number of H-1B result, it had become extremely diffi- of his contribution to our national life on top of the situation, DOE Sec. An- visas issued per year is limited to cult to pass any pro-immigration leg- continued on page 22 to ridiculous proportions. gelo Reyes occasionally is reported in After one more fight with IBO media threatening to open the books Light Welterweight champion, Ricky of the oil companies. CAMPUS JOURNAL Hatton and another with retired Floyd Whether the government is en- to find a pivotal solution, they would Mayweather, Jr., should efforts to pro- tirely happy about declining prices forever be remembered as mere foot- mote these matches succeed, there of petroleum products from which 12 By Angelo Miguel M. Calabio notes in this era’s history. should be nothing more Manny need percent VAT goes to its coffers is vi- In this day and age, reputations to prove in the ring. However, he will cious speculation. If it is able to col- seem to have been a thing of the past. be confronted with a more complicat- lect additional income tax from the oil Mrs. Aquino, once known as a sym- ed challenge, he may be unprepared companies on any overprice of their Survival of the Fittest bol of democracy around the world, to grapple with if he ventures into the product, this would be a more direct has clearly lost her glitter and is now world of his apparent handlers’ dirty route in raising revenue than prying a shadow of her old, influential self. politics. It is confirmed that he is anything from the driving public on Days ago, broadsheets across the be allowed to hold office, especially Former House Speaker Jose De Vene- poised to run for a congressional seat their savings from gasoline and die- Philippines bannered the various in a country that prides itself as Asia’s cia, once President Arroyo’s most avid in the province of Sarangani in the sel purchases. Hopefully, after the oil headlines proclaiming the news of for- first legitimate democracy. The fight fan and supporter, is now one of the 2010 May elections, obviously staying companies have made the most of the mer President Corazon Aquino’s pub- against President Arroyo’s administra- administration’s fierce enemies. Poor clear of the turf of Congresswoman messy situation, prices will settle to lic apology to ousted former President tion should be considered as a different old Joe was simply kicked out of the Darlene Antonino-Custodio who dealt what can be accepted as fair and the Joseph Ejercito Estrada regarding the battle. For one, the allegations against administration bandwagon, perhaps him a knockout blow in his bid for a public will get the full benefit of de- former’s active participation during Erap and Gloria are different in nature, due to the fact that he failed to control congressional seat of his native prov- clining crude oil prices brought about the so-called “Edsa Dos”, the historic and it makes no sense to compare one his namesake son, Joey De Venecia, ince of South Cotabato in May 2007. by the global economic crisis. mass movement that drove the fellow with the other. If ex-President Estrada who served as a whistle-blower of the One can only hope that Manny will On the political front, the Inter- that we fondly call as “Erap” out of was convicted and made to pay for his infamous ZTE-NBN broadband deal. soon realize that there are many other Faith rally in Makati last December Malacañang. sins, the same should be applied in the Now, De Venecia seems determined to ways he can serve his people outside 12, 2008 was intended to impress Ex-President Aquino’s recent re- case of President Arroyo. pick up the scraps and work his way what many regard as the “house of ill- upon GMA the public’s overwhelm- traction, in which she called “People As it pans out, it seems that the back to power, even if it requires a repute” otherwise known as the Phil- ing objection to any move that will Power II” a mistake, is just another current political arena is one that ap- complete 360-degree turn from his old ippine House of Representatives. It is extend her term in office, even just by concrete evidence of the shambolic plies the natural rule of “survival of self. common perception that his number 12 months as contemplated in a pro- state of Philippine politics. Consider- the fittest”, where the strong survives Currently, it is perhaps an under- one fan who never fails to bask in re- posed bill in the House of Representa- ing that there were enough grounds and the weak dies. Right now, Presi- statement to say that the Philippines is flected glory of his victories in the ring tives that will postpone the May 2010 to convict Erap of plunder, the ailing dent Arroyo seems to have full control the laughing stock of Asia. The sick- will be a major influence in his politi- elections to May 2011. Contingents ex-president is simply sending out the of the vital elements of power- the ening political process needs a real cal plans to the extent that this will from advocacy, political, business, wrong message to the confused and House of Representatives, the Senate, overhaul, if it is to be stopped from be- serve her purpose. He should draw professional, academic and religious impoverished masses. Does her retrac- the Armed Forces, etc., and his oppo- ing a malignant and incurable disease. lessons on how individuals steeped in groups were represented in significant tion mean that standing up for the truth nents are scrambling to assemble their Right now, the country badly needs the tradition of courage and honor in numbers, but, it could be inferred that would soon turn out to be a mistake? forces and combat Gloria’s dominant a new breed of politicians, willing to the Philippine Military Academy meta- this could not have made much impact In my book, or in the book of any per- political machinery. To say the least, work in a revamped and more efficient morphosed into “Garci” and “Euro” upon the consciousness of GMA con- son who believes in the voice of the the opposition has been pulling up all political system. If we are to continue generals and skilled technocrats like sidering the deaf ear she has lent the people and the supreme power of de- stops, while the administration has with the deplorable practice of mud- Jocjoc Bolante (former undersecretary invectives and harsh criticism heaped mocracy, Mrs. Aquino’s recent state- simply been playing their cards right. slinging and political wrangling, the of Department of Agriculture) and upon her during most of her term in ments are absolutely blasphemous. The balance of power looks likely to country would continue to lag behind Romulo Neri (former director-general office. It is her oft-repeated declara- It did turn out, at least in the view stay in the administration’s side for the its prospering neighbors and be left of NEDA, now president of SSS) fell tion that she cares little about what the of many, that current President Gloria time being, and if the opposition fails out of the bandwidth of progress. from public esteem for having been people think of the stench around her, Macapagal-Arroyo was not the “sav- lured into GMA’s fraud and plunder provided, she is doing what she thinks ior” that the Philippines was look- entourage. is best for the country. ing for. Like her predecessor, Mrs. On the economic front, there is so What may have been mildly dis- Arroyo’s administration has been SUBSCRIPTIONS much apparent struggle between the cernable in that event is that religious embattled by numerous allegations of government and oil companies over groups among themselves have vary- corruption and fraud. However, people 6 MOS $20 / 1 YEAR $40 pump prices of petroleum products, ing degrees of opposition to GMA should never question the wisdom of first as crude oil prices were rising and depending on the largesse she may fighting for justice during Erap’s tenure MYRNA: (301) 728 6063 worse as crude oil prices came down. as chief executive. A leader shrouded The root of the problem stems from continued on page 22 by doubts of corruption should never subscriptions@pinoyherald the fact that the Department of Energy 17 LIBANGAN January 5, 2009

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W P G R E D U C E S T R E S S V Y N X S B Y I N C I J R R P D N I X T R V F E S G N E W S E O K H B P S M Y W C H G E N Z L O S E W E I G H T B N O Y I H M J D S Q J Z O O R I R E N K S F F X A F P J J T K E N A C T Y F O W L A M U Y N E O G J I P O U E T P L D J I T M R C U B Y H E D O J G B R N E O Z Q R A G D S Z E N R D U V T A N J P W E R T M Y A P L A E P F P I R T A E K A T O O S G D R A H Y D U T S Z N T V F T H G I R T A E F P I K S D M

18 January 5, 2009

Tek Tok ni Ka Tato FITNESS Web Browsers and Web Browser Security (This is the last part of Ka Tato’s series. Editor) fied box for Web search, Web history, Table tennis, Address bar with user smart suggestions as we type. • It has a crash control mecha- the underrated workout nism, meaning every tab that you open centration, form and timing. Practic- runs independently in the browser, Are you a frustrated athlete? Lack- ing strokes would surely enhance your so, if one app crashes, it won’t take ing the height and crazy jumping ability game and, as an added bonus, give you anything else down. I think this fea- of a LeBron James, or the phenomenal a much-needed workout. ture will consume too much computer batting skills of an Alex Rodriguez or Once you learn the basics, make it memory. I still have to dig further into even the good looks and the unparal- a habit to practice it everyday. If your this one. leled throwing hand of a Tom Brady, playing partner is not around, you can • This is one of my favorite fea- well, it is not the end of the world. For always do “walling” exercises at home, tures in Chrome, the Incognito Mode. there is a sport that does not require all for it would contribute a lot in improv- With this feature, all websites that you of these traits that many of us could ing your form and timing. If you feel browse won’t show up in your web only dream of, requiring only immense that you are good enough with the ba- history, insuring your own privacy. concentration and coordination, add to sics, you could freely proceed to the Users who share their computer can that, it would also burn calories and more advanced strokes and add to your take advantage of this feature. keep us extremely fit. arsenal of shots. Watch videos on drop • Downloading became much sim- The game is table tennis, not exact- shots, different service shots, forehand pler, no intrusive pop up window, just ly the typical North American sport of and backhand drives and defensive a plain simple status bar at the bottom strength and power, and often, mocked chop and slice shots. Always remem- left of the browser. as a miniature version of its more ber that just like in tennis, table tennis I like the Chrome, but, at this stage, popular big brother (tennis, of course), is all about shot making, meaning that it’s still too young to compete with however, this Asian sport is one that the more you learn different shots, the For the continuation of my article, ond because the installer was 480 KB Firefox. For me, Mozilla Firefox is keeps the body trimly fit and well- I’m going to talk a little about Google or less than 500k. still my number 1 choice and Google Chrome, the Newest Kid on the Block Cool features I like about the Chrome is definitely my second in web browers Chrome: choice. Google Chrome was introduced on • It’s fast, blazing fast. To download the latest version of Sept. 2, 2008 as a beta-version with • You are safe with the chrome. Google Chrome, please go to http:// the first stable release on December Like the other browsers, (Mozilla, IE, www.google.com/chrome 2, 2008. The name was derived from etc.) the chrome warns you if you’re To learn more about Google the graphical user interface frame or about to visit a suspected phishing, Chrome, please go to http://www. “chrome” of web browsers. malware or otherwise, unsafe web- google.com/chrome/intl/en/features. I was really excited to download site. html the beta-version of the chrome and • Remember the address bar in If you want to know why Google right after downloading, I installed Mozilla Firefox and Internet explorer? built a browser, you can go to http:// it on my Windows XP Pro computer. In Google chrome, you can do a lot of www.google.com/chrome/intl/en/ The installation took less than 20 sec- useful things. It’s an all-in-one / uni- why.html?hl=en?hl=en

RPE helps remove waste from the eye, HEALTH NEWS but as the eye ages, its waste-remov- ing properties become less efficient. Eventually deposits left in the macula Take a look at the retina cause its vision to deteriorate, a condition called macular degeneration. coordinated. All that we need to play more chances of winning you will get. (This article is re-printed with permission. Editor) In macular degeneration, the cen- what many people call as “ping-pong” Then, you’re equipped and well- “Floaters by themselves may be tral portion of your vision becomes is its specially-designed table, a ping- ready to play the real game of table annoying but aren’t necessarily dan- cloudy. In most people, once the dis- pong racket, a ping-pong ball, and, tennis. Official rules state that a singles gerous. They should be checked if integration has begun, a blind spot de- perhaps most importantly, an equally game is a 5-set match, a race to 11 per they appear suddenly or you also see velops in the center of the eye. anxious playing partner. set with alternate serving for 2 points. flashes of light. Then you should see Like any other sport, we should all Remember, it a combination of good learn the basics if we are to benefit ful- an ophthalmologist immediately,” Diabetic retinopathy basics and flamboyant shot-making is Lazzaro says. ly from engaging in the activity. Just required to win you a particular match. One of the most common side ef- like in tennis, there are different racket Floaters can be a signal of a reti- fects of long-term or uncontrolled dia- Concentration, coordination, form and nal tear. These occur when the fluid in holds, with the Orthodox or Western timing, these are the elements that you betes is its effect on the retina, called grip entirely different from the Chi- front of the retina (vitreous gel) thick- diabetic retinopathy. More than 70% need to become a proper table tennis nese or Pen-hold grip. The Western ens and shrinks and pulls on the retina. of adults with type 2 (adult onset) dia- player. A game of doubles would be a They say “the eyes have it,” but grip gives players a lot more control If the vitreous gel seeps through the betes develop this condition. good suggestion if you want to accom- which part of the eye has what? Con- while the Chinese grip allows play- tear, it can cause the retina to detach “There are two types of diabetic modate a couple more friends to your sider, for example, the retina. “The ret- ers to generate more power. Choose a from the back of the eye, a condition retinopathy,” Lazzaro says. “Non-pro- game. Table tennis could be a game of ina is located at the back of your eye. grip that suits you, one that makes you called posterior vitreous detachment liferative retinopathy is the early stage fun, but, also a game of wits and talent. It sends light signals along the optic more comfortable, for it would define (PVD). PVD develops in two thirds of in which the retina’s blood vessels Not to mention, it is a very worthwhile nerve to the brain, and those signals your whole game. adults age 70 or older. Retinal detach- weaken. You may see dark spots at this way to burn up calories and keep our- turn into images,” says Douglas Laz- The rules of the game are not en- ment can lead to partial or complete stage. selves fit and healthy. The game devel- zaro, M.D., chairman of the depart- tirely different from its more popular vision loss in your eye. “In proliferative retinopathy, abnor- ops endurance and strength, always a ment of ophthalmology at Long Island namesake, but, table tennis is played mal blood vessels grow in the retina,” healthy combination. College Hospital in Brooklyn, N.Y. on a much smaller court. Forehand Macular degeneration he continues. “These blood vessels Thus, although many people de- “The retina has two types of light and backhand strokes are crucial to a scribe it as a game for the Chinese, can bleed into the vitreous, and you’ll player’s game, so, before playing the Floaters and flashes receivers: the cones see light and make often also see floaters or dark spots. table tennis is truly for everyone of us As we age, the retina can become vul- color interpretations; the rods provide real game, make sure that both you and to enjoy. It helps us develop traits that Ultimately retinal detachment can oc- your playing partner get sufficient prac- nerable to conditions that can impair night vision,” says Lazzaro. It is in the cur.” would help us keep our bodies fit and or even destroy vision. Floaters, small macula, the middle part of the retina, tice on both strokes. A coach would be ready for all the challenges that life extremely helpful in this respect, but, spots or freckles that move around the where the retina’s rods and cones are Subtle symptoms presents each day. A simple game of field of vision, become more common. if you cannot afford to pay one, tuto- ping-pong could surprisingly save us found. The retina has no nerves, so you can’t They are more likely to be noticed The macula is affected by changes rial videos could still do the trick. Un- from the danger of disease in the fu- while looking at a white sheet of paper in the area of the retina known as the like in tennis, table tennis strokes rely ture. or at a blue sky. retinal pigment epithelium (RPE). The continued on page 23 much less on power but, more on con- 19 January 5, 2009 THE AMERICAN DREAM pened to the beautiful classical music they heard late at night. That By Mya Talavera was mostly the sound that came out of the house since we rarely At Home with Jon & hold raucous parties.” Jon and Elvie like to decorate their house with works of art. Elvie Melegrito Charcoal drawings and pencil sketches by artist and realtor, Mya As residents of Kensington, Mary- have made several renovations to their Talavera are prominently displayed in land for more than 30 years, Jon and house, including an expanded kitchen the living room. Other prized posses- Elvie Melegrito live in a four bedroom, with new flooring and granite coun- sions include some Pacita Abad prints, three-bath brick rambler on Frederick tertops, refinished hardwood flooring, a Pacita-inspired Trapunto painting of Place. The house is nestled among remodeled porch and a raised deck a mermaid, oil paintings of nudes by birch, oak and maple trees – provid- that overlooks the backyard. Energy- Filipino artists and framed posters of ing much needed shade during the hot, efficient windows were also installed revolutionary heroes. Elvie’s touch is summer months and a feast of colors in the last two years, which have cut evident in the furnishings, notably the in the Fall. Surrounded by parks and down on the couple’s heating bills sig- color-coordinated throw rugs to com- a rivulet that wind and flow into Rock nificantly. “I love looking out of these plement the chairs and sofas. Creek, this historic neighborhood of windows from our living room,” Jon The lower level is a spacious room 1,920 people – mostly young families points out. “When my granddaughter, with a fireplace. It serves as a romper – features old and not-so-old homes, Maya, visits, she enjoys getting up room when Maya, now two years old, with a median cost of $549,000. The on the sofa, so, she can peer through visits lolo and lola. It’s also the fami- town’s most prominent tourist spot is the window and watch the kids play.” ly’s entertainment center, replete with Antique Village, which draws thou- Without curtains, the living room is television, DVD player and Karaoke. sands of visitors all year round. visible from the outside. At this time, Adjacent to the room is Jon’s office “We love the small-town feel of the lighted Christmas tree by the piano where he spends late nights writing Kensington,” says Jon, a writer for can be seen through the open windows his articles and stories or just simply a union publication and a long-time – reflecting the blinking lights that are trying to catch up with e-mail. The community leader. “Our daughter, strung on the neighbor’s house across office is lined with shelves of books Desiree, was eight years old when the street. – a collection that started with a few we moved into this area. The public “When our daughter was still liv- volumes, but, now spills over the rest schools and libraries are just great and ing with us, she’d practice piano unof the house. The basement is a virtual it’s very accessible to the Beltway, til one in the morning,” Jon recalls. storage space for Jon’s collection of ar- Metro buses and shopping malls.” “When she left for college in Ithaca, In the past five years, the Melegritos our neighbors wondered what hap- continued on page 22

Occupying the lower level is a recreation room, which also The living room is tastefully decorated with art works by doubles as a romper room for grand daughter Maya when Pacita Abad, Mya Talavera and other Filipino artists she visits.

me what it should be about. Growing The Christmas Gift up a Catholic and being exposed to By Melodie Alejandro gift-receiving department until that Christian living, I’ve taken for granted first Christmas hit me and the amount the meaning of Christmas because this Thanksgiving has been done and of gifts-received was definitely a dras- knowledge has been drilled in me re- over with... and the wait for the last tic change to what I’m used to. Sud- petitively, for as long as I can remem- holiday of the year was both the slow- denly, I could no longer count on it to ber. Christmas is about the birth of est and fastest – and it has always been give me the ultimate high I craved for Jesus Christ and the reason for the gift- my ultimate favorite– Christmas! Ever every time. I lost my happy feeling. giving is to symbolize the offerings of since I was a young girl, I have always It was a hard reality to be faced with, the wise men to Jesus. So, what else is loved Christmas. Of course, it’s easy but, one that I did face, yet, with a dire there to learn? God simply answered to guess why...presents! Coming from consequence. Christmas was no lon- me, “It’s not just about knowing it by a big family and being the youngest of ger special to me. For the next couple mind, but, living it by heart”. Then it course, every Christmas brought nu- of years, I developed a bleak outlook hit me. I’ve been relying on “material merous gifts literally on my lap. For whenever the holidays were suddenly gifts” to give me my ultimate high, my many years, gifts alone were sufficient hovering over my head. Sure, I’d be happy feeling during Christmas when enough to bring me the ultimate high entertained during the actual celebra- all along I had the perfect gift already... of my favorite holiday. tion because family and friends will be Jesus in my life. As soon as I realized Now, moving from the Philip- around to keep me busy. But, as soon this, I not only got my happy feeling pines to the United States brought me as the event is done, so was the hap- back, but, I got JOY in my heart and a totally different experience when it py feeling. I found myself looking at in my life and no amount of material came to gift-receiving – a life-chang- Christmas just like any other holiday gifts could ever compare to the ulti- ing one I might add – that I’m truly – it comes and it goes, nothing special mate high I feel now. thankful for and one that I would cher- about it. So, as Christmas approaches, let us ish my whole life. My move here to But, because God loved me so thank God for giving us the ultimate America separated me from my birth much – too much that most of the gift we could ever ask for...His son, Je- family and one that reunited me with time I don’t think I deserve it – He sus and His gift of eternal life. Merry my destined family, who is my hus- slowly turned my present perspective Christmas to all and May God bless band. I didn’t realize the change in the on Christmas and began explaining to you in the coming New Year. 20 TRAVEL & CULTURE January 5, 2009 Europe’s Christmas Markets By: Trinidad A. Tonolete trips . A small picture showing a bright- and her husband to come along with ly-lighted plaza with stalls brought to me and my husband. I do not exactly recall how I stum- mind a flashback of childhood memo- Our first Christmas market was at bled upon the European Christmas ries in the Philippines and I decided to Heidelberg in Germany. It was at the Markets. I must have been going over book this trip a good year and a half in center of town, on a market square of travel brochures for off-season bargain advance. I even encouraged my sister cobbled stones that was for pedestrians only. It had rows and rows of brightly- lit Christmas stalls that carried all sorts of wares from hand-carved Christ- mas ornaments, Christmas houses and churches like those produced by Department 56, winter hats, scarves, gloves, lovely embroidered tablecloths and runners, spices and just about everything else. Then, there were the stalls for food: German sausages, grilled meat with onions that they serve in a sandwich, stollen, Christmas cookies, nuts and of course, the roasted chestnut stands. I even had the thinly- A stall in Salzburg, Austria featured beautiful figurines of houses, churches, sliced roasted potato that tasted like and scenery typical of what you actually see in the little towns of Germany, our Filipino “inihaw na camote.” Switzerland and Austria. The festive carnival-like atmo- hot chocolate, of course. Or, you can Christmas tree and were either an- sphere abounded everywhere. Young have both! chored by Parliament houses or a and old, parents with small children Virtually, all places we visited Cathedral. In Munich, it was on the were there as there is always a small had their Christmas markets; in Inns- Marienplatz where the famous Glock- merry go-round for the young ones. bruck, the narrow market streets lined enspiel, a carillon on top of the tower But, a Christmas market will not be with fairy tales come alive. Our hotel of the New Town Hall, is located. The complete without sampling the “glu- room looked out onto a window with life-sized figurines dance when the whein,” hot red wine with spices that Rapunzel and her prince high atop a hours strike at 11 am and noon. We were sold in cups. When you buy the tower. Another street had giants lean- were lucky to be there to witness the drink, you pay for the cup, but, you ing against shops; windows had deco- “Coopers’ Dance” as the figurines twirl can return the cup and get back your rations depicting the twelve days of around to the music of the carillon. The deposit. I think most tourists kept their Christmas and some had the Nativity night before, there was also a live sing- cups as souvenirs. Practically, every- scenes. ing group in the balcony. one milling around had a drink in his Munich, Salzburg and Vienna All in all, the Christmas markets hand. It was also a nice way of keeping in Austria seem to have the biggest lived up to my expectations and truly, In Heidelberg, Germany, this particular Christmas market was anchored by a your hands warm as the evenings were Christmas markets. All three were in an experience that is worth-experienc- big Christmas Pyramid or Christmas carousel. In an actual pyramid, the wind- chilly. If gluwhein is not your drink of the heart of town centered by a huge ing at least once in a lifetime. mill at the top rotates from the heat generated by the burning candles. choice, there is always the option of The Ifugao woodcarvers of Asin Road, Baguio City By: Rene R. Calandria the Americans, then, based in Camp John Hay. Barangay Asin Road, Baguio City Reynaldo Lopez Nauyac, barangay has long been known for its first class captain and president of the Ifugao woodcarvings. Its fame as a wood- Woodcarvers Association, proudly carvers’ village is attributed to the Ifu- narrates, “Noong after the war, na- gaos who migrated to the place after kita ng mga Amerikano na ang mga World War II. (The Ifugaos came from woodcarvers ay magagaling gumawa Barangay Hapaw, a small village of ng mga figurines at kutsara. Nakita woodcarvers in Ifugao). nilang puwede itong ibenta and that’s People usually go to Baguio for a how the commercialization of the vacation or a tour. To the Ifugaos, it is woodcarving industry started.” Con- a place of business. The presence of sequently, the industry has wrought the Ifugaos in Baguio City has made great changes in the economic lives it the top producer of woodcarvings in of the natives. “Ito ang nagpapakain the country. While thousands of tour- sa amin at nagpaaral sa akin,” admits Amerikano, humina na ang benta na- lang ako. Nagsimula ako sa maliliit Kapitan Reynaldo. But, such good ists are attracted by its cool weather, Emily Nauyac,a Commerce graduate min dito,” Kagawad Jose narrates. na items tulad ng ashtray, fish at kut- intention will remain on paper and few will leave the place without bring- of the University of Baguio. However, this was only temporary. sara,” (I learned woodcarving when I never get anywhere without the proper ing home a woodcarving as a souve- Roberta Dumapis, who owns her The Department of Trade and Industry was 12 years old. I started with small support. Like any other business, lack nir. own business, fondly remembers the (DTI) has been continually exposing items such as ashtray, fish and spoon), of capital limits the woodcarvers’ dai- As to why it is called Asin Road, days when life was difficult for her them to possible international clients Kagawad Jose says. ly production. The fact that there are barangay councilor, Jose Dumapis and her children. It was not until she through exhibits. Indeed, the Ifugaos For more than 50 years now, wood- never enough logs to work with makes says, “Dahil sa Asin Hot Spring na decided to put up her own business rightfully deserve their international carving has been associated exclu- it difficult for them to meet deadlines. matatagpuan sa dulo ng kalsada.” The that things started to change. “Dati status. sively with the Ifugaos. It has made a Moreover, Kagawad Jose frankly ad- woodcarving industry in Asin Road kasi, nagliliha at nagba-varnish lang At present, there are more than 500 great leap in the pages of their history. mits that “nalulugi din kami kapag was first popularized and promoted by ako ng mga woodcarvings,” Roberta families directly involved in wood- But, the scarcity of raw materials and ‘yong mga items na kinukuha ng mga says. carving. “There are even more who are widespread forest degradation threaten Taiwanese ay hindi nababayaran.” Though the business does not ex- indirectly involved, like the business- their entrepreneurial venture. Despite the odds, the Ifugao wood- actly allow Roberta and her family men and middlemen.” To the Ifugaos, “We are diverting our thrust to re- carvers of Baguio will move on to the to live in luxury, it extinguishes the woodcarving is a noble inheritance. forestation and plan to establish an future. The most important thing for irony and burden of a hand-to-mouth At an early age, every member of the agri-forest city in order to have a per- them is to live up to the legacy of their existence. Ironically, the pull out of family strives to learn the skill in order manent supply of raw materials. This ancestors and to preserve and develop the U.S. bases has greatly affected the to generate an income. “Natutunan ko is the only way to preserve the envi- the giftedness of the Ifugao race. marketing of the woodcarvings. ang woodcarving noong 12 anyos pa ronment and the industry,” reveals “Nang mawala na ‘yong mga 21 January 5, 2009

PGMA hopes... from p. 1 impeachment complaint, filed by the ministration viewed the controversies education and infrastructure develop- controversial Joey De Venecia and as “tests.” “The experiences of 2008, ment, among others, this year. In her his supporters, a complaint that was whether in pain or in triumph, have message, Mrs. Arroyo said she hoped subsequently junked by an administra- given the administration greater wis- all countries would “work together as tion-laden House of Representatives. dom, discipline and fortitude to face a global community” to weather the The administration was also rocked by the challenges ahead with hope and upcoming global economic storm. protests and mass opposition to Char- optimism,” he said. “Here at home, I hope that the efforts ter Change, a move that has been en- Political observers have noted that we are making to eliminate poverty dorsed by the President. Critics claim Mrs. Arroyo’s term would last until and improve the lives of our people that such actions are intended to ex- June 30, 2010, but, she would be- will continue to bear fruits and that tend the term in office of the President come a lame-duck President this year these efforts will pave the way to the and other duly-elected officials, terms when the frantic 2010 campaign for creation of a more prosperous Philip- that is set to expire on June 30, 2010. the Presidency kicks off. However, pines,” she further added. Lastly, and perhaps most notably, the some analysts do not share the same On the other hand, Ermita, said the President was staunchly criticized for view. According to political analyst, administration would not allow the do- her alleged involvement in multi-mil- Mon Casiple, “She will become a mestic economy to “deflate” and allow lion peso scandals, namely the ZTE- lame-duck if Charter change does not the poor to deal with the adverse im- NBN National Broadband deal and prosper. The Charter says her term pact of the recession “that is being an- Fertilizer Fund Scam. However, the ends on June 30, 2010. If that is not ticipated next year,” on their own. “As President skillfully dodged all the bul- changed, everyone will regard her has always been, whether she is hailed lets that her opponents have shot at as a lame-duck President. Everyone, for her popular decisions or criticized her and managed to maintain control including her allies, will desert her,” for the tough choices she makes, these President Arroyo with U.S. President George Bush (Malacanang photo) of the administration through the tur- he said in an interview. He also men- hardly matter to President Arroyo who bulent year. tioned that some analysts expect the will always put premium on the big- Immig Session..from page 17 But, having survived all these, the administration to go “full blast” in its ger scheme of things—the integrity of Certain aliens working on the Defense A college graduate currently under administration looked back to 2008 drive to rewrite the 1987 Charter this the public policy decisions at her level Department projects may remain in an OPT (optional training) employ- as a “well-lived year,” according to year through a constituent assembly to that would indeed make a difference in the H-1B status for 10 years. Finally, ment authorization with an employer Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita. extend Ms Arroyo’s stay in power, a the lives of our people,” he elaborated not all H1-B petitions are subject to willing to file for him should have a “While there have been some tense, notion that the administration bluntly further. the 65,000 cap. The first 20,000 H-1B qualified immigration attorney file stressful and challenging moments, rejects. “The President will do what she petitions filed on behalf of aliens with an application at the earliest possible they only proved the Filipino people’s After doing a notable job of keep- must in accordance with her agenda U.S.-earned masters’ or higher degrees time in order to maximize his chances capacity to face challenges,” he said ing the economy “afloat” in 2008, the of governance and she would prefer to are exempt from any fiscal year cap on of obtaining an H1-B visa prior to the in his New Year’s message. Secretary government said that it would put more have history judge her Presidency,” he available H-1B visas. Also exempt cap being reached. Comments or sug- Gabriel Claudio, Presidential Political money on social welfare, food pro- finished. from the annual cap are aliens who gestions about future topics may be Adviser, further added that the ad- ductivity, poverty alleviation, health, are employed at institutions of higher directed to the author via e-mail at learning, or at non-profit or govern- info@immigration lawdc.com. mental research organizations. Flunking MMC... from p. 1 year were not reported. Improvements being weighed on perception,” he de- “I would like to point out that the we have made in areas like corruption clared. Ink Spots ... from p. 17 Philippines failed only .01 percent were not reported on time by the 3rd have bestowed upon some segments laration of disapproval of efforts to and in part we can attribute this to the party sources,” he averred. PROJECTS FOR THE POOR separately. Some bishops in the CBCP extend GMA’s term). It is predictable fact that the MCC added two 3rd party One key 3rd party source for the ON THE LINE (Catholic Bishops Conference of the that GMA may not be in the least per- sources whose findings were given fighting corruption yardstick is the Amb. Gaa revealed they have sub- Philippines) may have received gener- turbed by our accustomed protest ac- higher weight,” Amb. Gaa averred. World Bank Institute. In a matrix mitted five project proposals to an ous donations from PAGCOR (Philip- tions. She in fact had planned a trip to pine Amusement and Gaming Corp.) The MCC called on the Arroyo ad- where 100 is best possible score, the MCC technical board. A sixth project Mindanao on the same day which was out of its gambling proceeds and may ministration to “intensify efforts to Philippine’s ranking has fallen from is “on standby” because the MCC has aborted due to inclement weather and understandably be expected to dilly- she flew to Qatar the following day to fight corruption”, adding that they will 36 in 2005 to 23 in 2006 and 22 in indicated they are not keen to take it dally within the Malacañang parish. solicit investments and seek assistance be closely watching the country’s per- 2007. Their assessment is combined up. The Kapit-bisig Laban sa Kahira- Brother Mike Velarde’s “El Shaddai” in the solution of our Mindanao prob- formance. “We should perhaps do bet- with other sources like Transparency pan aims to provide seed capital for group, recipient of generous govern- lem. There are innumerable destina- ter in our efforts to fight corruption,” International which produces a Cor- community projects in municipali- ment loans, cannot be part of such tions GMA’s camp can pick for any Amb. Gaa told reporters at a Christ- ruption Perception Index placed the ties with at least 50 percent poverty emotional display of contempt for sort of mission she may undertake to mas lunch, “take it as a challenge”. Philippines this year at 141 out of 180 incidence. The Pantawid Pamilyang GMA’s person in that December 12 distance herself from demonstrations countries. The Philippines fared better Pilipino proposes to give cash grants gathering (inspite of his recent dec- of public outrage at home. FAILING ON PERCEPTIONS in 2007 when it ranked 131 in a field to extremely poor households for edu- The American Drean... from p. 20 But the country’s chief envoy of 179 countries. cation and health in Southern Luzon, chival material, record albums, boxes couldn’t help complaining that the Transparency International culls its Bicol, Western and Central Visayas. the lawn and growing vegetables in of pictures, old books and magazines MCC “changed the rules in mid- CPI from a host of other agencies, in- The Sustainable Upland Water- the backyard. His favorite plant is bit- and purchases from many yard sales. ter melons (ampalaya). Each year, he stream”. He was referring to the two cluding the Asian Development Bank, shed Management project is intended This collection is a source of tension shares his abundant crop with friends additional 3rd party sources that re- Economic Intelligence Unit, Freedom to preserve mountain water resources between the couple. Elvie wants to and co-workers. “We love our house portedly gave an unflattering evalua- House, and Political & Economic Risk and help residents to meet survival simply get rid of all the “junk.” To very much,” says Elvie. “It’s a quiet tion of corruption in the Philippines. Consultancy, among others. challenges while protecting the envi- keep domestic harmony, Jon has be- neighborhood and the folks around “Had the sources remained as those But Amb. Gaa stressed that judging ronment. gan to unclutter the basement. here are very friendly. Over the years, of last year’s sources, we could have the Philippine’s corruption problem The Secondary Road Development Jon and Elvie have decided that she our house has been a warm place for passed,” Amb. Gaa opined. “In the is less than objective. “I would like project aims to build, repair or expand will be in-charge of domestic affairs relatives who gather every two years – which means everything inside the three areas that we failed, we can at- to add that we are being judged on six priority road networks totaling 309 for family reunions and out-of-town house – while he looks after foreign tribute them to the lag in the reporting perception alone. It’s not an issue of kilometers that could boost agricul- guests who are drawn to Washington’s or external affairs – meaning mowing historic sights.” of 3rd party sources. Statistics for this factual findings of corruption, we are ture and hasten delivery of basic services to the remotest areas of Luzon key indicators that are provided for in pines as one of two highpoints in Phil- and the Visayas. The Empowering the MCC standards,” Amb. Gaa said. ippine-US relations this year; the other the Taxpayer program was proposed Only 17 countries have won Compact being the 96-1 victory of the Filipino by the BIR to reinforce tax and cus- agreements, among them Armenia, veterans equity bill in the US Senate. toms collection, anti-corruption and Cape Verde, Lesotho, Mongolia, Tan- Even as they face a seemingly Si- computerization activities. The 7th zania and Vanuatu. “It’s possible we syphean struggle to reverse percep- “standby” project is for coastal fisher- can have a signing next year but again, tions of Philippine corruption, Amb. ies protection activities. The total cost that will depend on our proposals. The Gaa said they can only try harder. of the six project proposals submitted MCC has to agree to our proposals,” “This is not for the government or so far to the MCC runs up in excess he added. anyone else. Our people, especially of $740 million. “Up to the signing of Amb. Gaa counts the grant of eligi- the poor, need this,” he stressed. Ambassador Gaa (right) with Lito Katigbak of Philippine Star the agreement, we have to pass all the bility for Compact status to the Philip- 22 January 5, 2009

December 10, 2008 “Simbang Gabi” CLASSIFIED WANTED HANDYMAN A popular Filipino yuletide tradition Speakers and trainers needed. Full-Time, Live-Out Nanny for our Constantino Bo 703.732.6389 Company will be featured on the Constantino Bo 703.732.6389 infant. Experience and legal status Alexandria,VA 571.274.9695 WASHINGTON, D.C – The prepa- Philippines the following day, will be volunteer their God-given talents. Key apprentice, Spring 2009. Call rations are in full gear for the series concelebrating the traditional “Sim- Filipino leaders in the immediate vi- is301.793.8565 a must. We live in Rosslyn. Please Alex 571.274.9695 of Simbang Gabi in nine Catholic bang Gabi” Holy Mass. The Choir Di- cinity, especially the various Filipino contact: Wanted Advertising Executive on WHEREDENTAL TO DINE Churches in the Archdiocese of Wash- rectors are Tony A. Viduya and Edith prayer groups, rallied and volunteered [email protected], commision basis. Pls. call 571-277- ington, D.C. with several parishioners Fuentes Viduya, both seasoned choir to assist the OLV Filipino parishioners 703.812.0807 Manila CafeMario Batacan 0087 and key Filipino community leaders trainers and choral group singing in- with the once-a-year “Simbang Gabi” 94007020 Livingston Commerce Rd. St. #115 Fort Wash- working together. This third annual structors, visiting the District from Holy Mass. Mike Viduya and wife, Housekeeper/NannySERVICE needed in ��ington MD 20744 301.248.3400 “Simbang Gabi” to be held at the Our Cagayan de Oro City, Cagayan, Phil- Cherry Jean, also a nurse at George- McLean. Monday 9:30am to 6pm, 703-644-5825CHEAP EATS Lady of Victory Church is one of the ippines. The Viduyas are award-win- town University, together with their Home Improvement. Wednesday 9:30am to 12:30pm. No nine churches of the DC archdiocese ning professional choir trainers since two children, Farrel May and Fave Al- Call Serjio Bautista. Ravi Kabob House driving needed. Momijji participating in the nine–day novena 1972 and have been winning awards len , spearheaded the weekly practice. Tel. no: 301-567-2712 / Cel no.: 301- Pakistani Restaurant celebrating the coming birth of Christ. in the Cagayan Province, Region 10 Filipino community leaders in the area 803-8596Experience and good references a Japanese305 Bar N. and Glebe Grill Rd. A “Pununuluyan” pageantry will and other major cities in the Philip- are extending support to the “Simbang must. 703.855.3710 505 H. St.,Arlington, NW Chinatown VA feature the December 20 mass at the pines including Metro Manila where Gabi” Holy Mass. Among the Fil-Am AZ Razo Cinstruction. Residential Washington(703) DC 816-0222 20001 OLVMansion church. Housethey have been is garnering 100 national years ac- leaders supporting old the project are Dr. andPart-time Commercial secretary Contractor. at St. Luke Cath- 2024088110 Rev. Father David Werning, OLV colades. Visiting their son, Michael, a Ben Oteyza, Dr. Bambi Lorica, Tessie Contactolic Parish Aldo in Razo McLean, VA Café Mozart MANSION HOUSE, Baguio City Plan for Baguio in 1908. the Philippines. Pastor and Father Jaime Noel Deslate, nurse at the Georgetown University Calderon- Alarcon, Emilie G. Dearing, atCall 571-437-4195 the parish at 703.356.1255 La Femme(German Deli) - President Gloria Macapagal-Ar- William E. Parsons, who designed Ambeth Ocampo, NHI chairman, 1331 H St, NW a visiting Filipino priest who just grad- Hospital, Tony and Edith heard the Jun Pedery, Mike & Ging Aquino, Mel Fine French Restaurant uatedroyo summa will unveil cum Tuesdaylaude with the a degree histori- predicamentsthe Mansion asthat part the of usual the Burnham Filipino &said Lolit the Villegas, presidential Pablito mansion Alarcon at Bagu and- Washington, DC 7107 Brookville Rd. ofcal Doctormarkers of of Philosophy this venerable in Clinicalsummer choirPlan for that Baguio sings everyin 1908, third drew Saturday inspi- theio’s Philippinewooded Pacdal Embassy area staffserved headed as the ROOMS FOR RENT (202) 347-5732 Chevy Chase, MD Psychologyresidence of atPhilippine the Catholic presidents Univer that- isration unable for to the participate edifice fromthis year. then They City bysummer Consul residence Rico Fos. of (ByAmerican Nonoy goverMen-- sityis celebrating and who will its hundredth be departing year for of theex- wereBeautiful gracious Movement enough in to the offer United and doza,nors-general Pinoy Global from1908 Online to News) 1935, and Fully furnished room in McLean, 301*986*5225Chicken Rey Café istence. States. later of Philippine presidents starting bus accessible, walk to Safeway, (Peruvian Specialties) The commemorative ceremonies Forbes would later become the gov- with Manuel L. Quezon. 1.5 m to Tysons Corner. Call Laila at PF Chang11238 Vhina Georgia Bistro Ave. will start at 10 a.m. at the Mansions ernor-general of the Philippines from The Mansion also served as the 703.356.4547 1716 InternationalWheaton, Drive MD front gates, where the two centennial 1909 to1913 when William Howard venue of the special session of the Sec- McLean VA(301) 22102 933-8989 historical markers, one in English in- Taft was the US president. ond Philippine Legislature in 1910. Simbang Gabi Schedule Room in Alexandria, VA, near Fort 703-734-8996 scription,�� the other in Filipino, will be Forbes started out as the Commis- Destroyed in 1945 during World Honey Pig Belvoir (Rt. 1), 1 mile to Wal-Mart installed. sioner of Commerce and Police in the War II, the Mansion was rehabilitated (Korean Parlor) Call Alona at 571.278.4069 National Historical Institute (NHI) Philippines from 1904 through 1908 two years later in 1947 and immedi- 7220 C. Columbia Pike ��Executive Director Ludovico Badoy ��under US President Theodore Roos- ��ately became the venue of the United North StarAnnandale, Cafe and VAGrill APARTMENTS “Simbangwill assist Gabi” the President2008 Advent in the un- Epiphanyevelt. He Catholic became Church the Vice Governor NativityNations /(UN) St. Dominic Economic Church Commission Springfield – Shr hse room avl. 9201 Livingston(703) 256-5229 Road Churchveiling of of Annunciation the 27x35 markers which 2712of the Dumbarton Philippines St., from NW 1908 to 1909, 16thof Asia St., andNWWashington, the Far East (ECAFE). D.C. SFH,Wildwood nice, quiet. Towers Near hwy. $500 incl Ft. Washington, MD 20744 3810chronicle Massacusetts the beginnings NW of the Man- Washington,before becoming D.C. governor-general for The Mansion was also the venue of utils/cable/intrt.1075 S. Jefferson Female St. only. Call 301-248-4101Pho 88 Washington,sion House or D.C. simply the Mansion. four years. ��the 1948 summit of the United Nations 703.300.5945Arlington VA 22206 (Vietnamese Cuisine) The presidential summer residence He would come back to the Phil- (UN) Food and Agriculture Organiza- �� St. Margaret of Scotland 703-671-3370 10478 Baltimore Ave. was constructed during the American ippines 12 years later in 1921 as the tion (FAO) and the First Meeting of APARTMENTS �� “Simbang Gabi” Holy Mass 410 Addison Road, NW Springfield- BR $450, MBR $550 Beltsville, MD rule at the instance of then Philippine head of the Woods-Forbes Commis- the Southeast Asian Union (SEAU), and bsmt effic. Kitch, BA, prking, 10 (301) 931-8128 St. Anne’s Catholic Church Our Lady of Victory Church Washington, D.C. Monticello Gardens Carlyle Place Apartments Vice Governor-General William Cam- sion under US President Warren G. also known as the Baguio Conference, min/Metro, util incl., pvt entr., TV, 4400 Wisconsin Ave., NW 4835 MacArthur Blvd., NW, 3212 Sllen St. 2251 Eisenhower Ave. eron Forbes as part of the Burnham Harding to investigate conditions in in 1950. $800. Call 703.303.8484 Thai X-ing Washington, D.C. Washington, D.C. 20007 �� Falls Vhurch VA 22042 Alexandria,(Thai VA 22314Cuisine) �� Vienna703-573-1020 703.706.0076 Cogito...from page 15 servative on many social issues. It is fornia, Nevada, et. al.). – Shr SFH. Furn, bsmt $900 515 Florida Ave., NW �� Noel Deslate (Concelebrating) Aida & Nonoy Mendoza: (202) (short term avl). Furn BR $600. Incl Washington, DC logical doctrine of post-Vatican. Both only in the South where the followers What else could the social con- St. Matthews Cathedral Potluck Dinner Reception 346-6618 / Mel & Lolit Villegas: utls.Oxon Near Hill Metro. Village Female only. Call Columbia(202) Pike 332-4322 Evangelicals and the Catholic Church of Evangelical movement are almost servatives and liberals do, but, argue 1725 Rhode Island, NW Hess Auditorium (301) 942-2694 / Mike & Ging 202.352.44602110 Alice Ave. Oxon Hill, 2400 Virginia ave., N.W should look first into their own hierar- in every corner and every kind of Bap- about theory and doctrine? In any Washington,chy and biologically D.C. examine and test Everyonetist church is iswelcome! one or two blocks away Aquino:case, it (301) is always 603-8388 the individual / Edith & who MD 20745 tel.: 1888-512-6025 Washington DC 20037 the sexual orientations of their own from each other. Much as I cannot Tonydecides Viduya his/her (202) own 333-0810 lifestyle /and Tessie sex - 1877-278-2037 ��ministers (even the Bishops and Car- ��blame them for their faith and com- Calderon-Alarcon:ual preference in life. (571) Whether 333-5327 he/she / St.dinals). Stephen’s Catholic Church Shrinemitment of tothe conservative Blessed Sacrament social issues, Emiliechooses G. to Dearing: be gay or (571) not is 432-8716 his/her own I am hoping that they could be more Pennsylvania The homophobic Avenue NW attitude of the 6001 Western Avenue, NW /making. Drs. Victor Man & isBambi the driver Lorica of (301) his own tolerant to the faith and social beliefs Washington,Evangelical D.C. pastor is no surprise to Washington, D.C. 767-0375destiny and along the highway of exis- me because the South (Alabama, Ken- of others in the North (Connecticut, tence, only he/she can decide when to NEED FOREX tucky, et. al.) has always been con- Massachusetts, et. al.) and West (Cali- pick up the path of maturity. NEED A DJ? SERVICES? Health News...from p. 19 an initial retinal exam and then deter- eration, there are new drugs injected Call LITO Call LITO into the eye called anti-VEGF drugs. feel it tear; you must rely on other mine if you need a retinal specialist. They block the formation of the waste symptoms. Signals for retinal tears For diabetic retinopathy, diet and deposits that sometimes decrease vi- and detachment include the floaters exercise are still two of the best ways sion,” Lazzaro says. There are side ef- already mentioned and shadows along to keep it from developing or pro- fects, so discuss this with your doctor. your peripheral vision, the ability to gressing. One study found that keep- 703-598-2994 “For tears and detachment, laser Tel: 703-263-2769 Fax: 703-263-2363 see to the sides without moving your ing your sugar levels controlled with surgery is the best option. It’s an of- eyes. Another signal may be a reduced medication decreased the risk of reti- fice visit and takes about five to seven sense of vision. If you’ve had cataract nopathy by 30%. minutes,” Lazzaro says. Depending on surgery or are extremely nearsighted, Lowering your blood pressure (be- how bad the damage is, much of the you are especially at risk of retinal de- low 130/80) is also recommended, vision can often be restored. “There tachment. and some experts now also suggest can be side effects, though, includ- “I ask specific questions, like how that watching your cholesterol and ing increased sensitivity to light,” he Balikbayan Box, Money Remittance well someone is seeing the street signs quitting smoking may help. “People adds. CD’s, Gifts & Travel Service off to the side while they’re driving. Or with diabetes should be screened by “If someone has any sudden vision WE ACCEPT CATERING I’ll observe whether they have trouble an ophthalmologist at least annually,” changes, they should see an ophthal- reading a pill bottle. These indicate Norman says. “If someone has known Chantilly Park Shopping Center mologist immediately,” Norman says. they should see an ophthalmologist,” retinal problems or starts experiencing 14511-Q Lee Jackson Memorial Hwy. Mon-Sat. 10:am-8:00pm says Mary Norman, M.D. An ophthal- vision changes, they should be seen ( By Wendy J. Meyeroff) Chantilly, VA 20151 Sun. 10:00-6:30pm mologist is the doctor who should do more frequently.” “For macular degen- www.ericksontribune.com 23 23 January 5, 2009