NYNJ Dec. 10-16, 2010

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Volume 4—Issue 10 • 16 Pages

DATELINE

DECEMBER 10-16, 2010

USA

from the AJPress NEWS TEAM across America

First Filipino SC Chief Justice in CA sworn in SACRAMENTO—The Honorable Tani Gorre Cantil-Sakauye was sworn in as the first minority and Filipino Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court in mid-day ceremonies at the Rotunda of the State Capitol on December 3.

Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye, who wore her judicial robes over a silver blouse and dark slacks, took her oath as the 28th California Supreme Court Chief Justice before Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger as her family and her predecessor, Chief Justice Ronald George, looked on.

PH initiates UN resolution for persons with disabilities The Philippines is asking members of the United Nations (UN) to include disability issues and persons with disabilities when reviewing its Millennium Development Goals (MDG).

At the same time, it had asked governments to step up efforts to assess how this group of individuals can benefit from these goals.

In a draft resolution submitted last Dec. 3, the Philippine Permanent Mission to the UN has

called for “national, bilateral and multilateral policies and programs to promote and protect the rights of persons with disabilities.”

“The Philippines has expressed concern that while the member states of the UN strive to achieve the 2015 targets of their commitments in the (MDG), efforts and strategies to that end may not effectively filter down to persons with disabilities,” Philippine Permanent Representa-

tive to the United Nations Libran Cabactulan said in a statement.

The MDGs are international development goals that include eradicating poverty, reducing child mortality, fighting AIDS, and developing a global partnership for development. These goals, established during the 2000 UN millennium summit, are expected to be achieved by PAGE A2

PAGE A2

Donaire sends message to Montiel

Ambassador Cabactulan speaks with officials from the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) and the World Health Organization during the panel discussion on ‘Keeping the Promise: Realizing the Millennium Development Goals for Persons with Disabilities Towards 2015 and Beyond.’

Photo courtesy of Department of Foreign Affairs

AJPress photo by Joe Cobilla

LOS ANGELES—There’s something different about Filipino boxer Nonito Donaire Jr. these days.

There’s a certain hop in his step and a little more flavor in his punches. His fierceness inside the ring is nothing like his genial demeanor outside of it.

Even his trainer Robert Garcia noticed something different about the Filipino super flyweight champion during training camp.

“We would finish a 12-round sparring session and he’d be laughing and smiling,” said Garcia. “Most guys would be dead tired but I don’t know there’s just something different with him. I was impressed.”

“I’m ready. I’m pumped. This is my shot,” said Donaire Jr. to the Asian Journal.

Donaire Jr. is referring to what he believes is an opportunity to get due recognition. Everyone in the Philippines is aware of Donaire’s boxing skills, but he always felt he wanted something more. He’s begged Top Rank, his promoter, to place him in bigger fights, and in a heavier weight class.

This Saturday, he’ll be one step closer.

Donaire is headlining Top Rank’s In Harm’s Way card this Saturday at the Honda Center in Anaheim.

Donaire took the top billing in the card after Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. suffered an illness in the last week of trainPAGE A5

As House passes DREAM ACT

Fil-Ams urged to push for its support in Senate

by Dymphna

Calica-La AJPress

Putt

Lawmakers in the US House of Representatives passed late Wednesday night a bill granting undocumented students in the country a path to citizenship.

Already, a Filipino-American community leader has urged members of the community to call their state representatives and push them to vote in favor of the Development, Relief, and Education for Minors (DREAM) Act. This is because the bill, to be discussed in Senate on Dec. 16, still faces a tough hurdle as Senate Majority leader Harry Reid tries to get the 60 votes

needed to advance its passage before Congress lame duck session adjourns.

“As a group, we have the numbers to motivate our senate representatives. We can call, fax and email them,” Rozita Lee told Asian Journal in an interview.

She added, “Let us also read and educate ourselves about it because people have misconceptions about the proposed law.”

Lee—the national vice chair of the National Federation of Filipino-American Associations (NaFFAA) and Presidential advisory commissioner on Asian and Pacific Islanders- said FiliPAGE A7

Filipinos sue hospital for discrimination Group claims being singled out for English-only rule

by Cynthia de

AJPress

Castro

A GROUP of 52 former and current Filipino-American hospital employees filed a lawsuit against their employer, Delano Regional Medical Center (located in the Central Valley) for discrimination and harassment on the basis of national origin.

The complaint was filed in the United States District Court, Eastern District of California last December 7, 2010.The action was filed against Central California Foundation for Health/ Delano Regional Medical Center and Delano Health Associates, Inc. (collectively referred to as “DRMC” or “Defendants”). The employees are represented by the Asian Pacific American Legal Center (APALC), a member of the Asian American Center for Advancing Justice.

The complaint states that DRMC discriminated against its Filipino-Ameri-

Wilma Lamug and Elnora Cayme, two of the plaintiffs in the lawsuit that decided to stand up for their rights and speak out against discrimination and harassment.

AJPress photo by Miko Santos

can employees because of their national origin and subjected the Filipino-American workers to severe and pervasive workplace harassment. DRMC prohibited Filipino-American employees from speaking Tagalog and other Filipino languages under a broad-reaching, English-only policy. DRMC singled out only PAGE A7

FASO featured in French music video Pinoys don’t earn high degrees

THE Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) was recently featured in the music video of Daft Punk, a popular French electronic music duo. Consisting of French musicians Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo and Thomas Bangalter, Daft Punk reached significant popularity in the late 1990s house movement in France and was met with continued success in the years following. They are credited with producing songs that were considered essential in the French house scene and have released three studio albums along PAGE A7

by Joseph

Pimentel AJPress

Photo courtesy of Wes Olson/connectthedotsinc.com

LOS ANGELES—California Filipino students are likely to graduate from high school but only 30 percent go on to a four-year university, a new report revealed Thursday.

“The report is telling,” said Melany De La Cruz-Viesca, assistant director of the UCLA Asian American Studies Center (AASC). “We’re not going on to graduate programs or doctorate programs. I think in a way Filipinos are getting stuck and I’m curious to try and find out why that is. Are more Filipino students going to community colleges first before transferring, or are they being tracked into these high school programs that do allow them to go to a four-year university? More and more, I think we’re getting

stuck at community colleges or they just finish with an AA degree before getting a job.”

“It’s really telling because if you see Koreans and Taiwanese, they are going on and receiving their graduate and doctorate degrees,” added De La Cruz-Viesca.

The purpose of the report, The State of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Education in California, released at a press conference Thursday, is to debunk the myth that Asians are the model minority group in the US. The report reveals that with many Asian American and Pacific Islander subgroups like the Hmong, Laotian, and Cambodians, education problems are often masked because they are lumped into “general Asian” or “other catPAGE A7

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A DECEMBER 10-16, 2010 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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From the Front Page

PH initiates UN resolution...

PAGE A1 2015 as agreed upon by all 192 UN member states and other international organizations.

“The Philippines has consistently stressed the importance of including the improvement of the plight of persons with disabilities as an integral part in the MDGs,” Cabactulan said.

He added there is a need for conscious efforts to put the issue of persons with disabilities in the MDG strategies and

mechanisms.

The UN resolution, called Realizing the Millennium Development Goals for Persons with Disabilities Towards 2015 and Beyond, will be submitted to the UN General Assembly during its 66th session. It was initiated by the Philippines along with Tanzania .

In its statement, the Philippine permanent mission said the resolution also called on governments to strengthen the

First Filipino SC Chief...

PAGE A1

It was only a few months ago that Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye was nominated by the Governor to the post and was later confirmed by a three-member panel of the California Commission on Judicial Appointments. In the last November elections, Cantil-Sakauye received 4,764,829 yes votes from California voters that sealed the post for the Sacramento native.

In her brief speech, Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye told the couple of hundred people, who crammed in the rotunda, that she is aware of the brilliant legacy left by departing Chief Justice Ron George and how he has, through his incredible performance, imparted the California judicial system with the finest reputation in the world.

Describing the Herculean task ahead of her, she said: “I am fully aware of the monumental, indescribable challenge ahead of me. I also am aware that I am prepared to happily dedicate myself to this task.”

Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye revealed that being sworn in at the rotunda of the State Capitol had incredible meaning to her for a number of reasons.

“The first reason is personal. My family, my aunt and uncles and my in-laws were all born near or in Sacramento. We live only a few

collection and compilation of data about the situation of persons with disabilities.

It also requested the UN system to facilitate technical assistance within existing resources, including the provision of assistance for capacity-building.

The resolution “takes the promise made by governments at the MDG summit a step closer to our vision of improving the lives of persons with disabilities,” Cabactulan said.

It emphasizes the need for governments and the international community to take concrete action to ensure that persons with disabilities fully participate in all aspects of society and development efforts, he added.

For its part, the Philippine government is taking steps to ensure that national policies and programs are inclusive and accessible to all. At the same time, it integrates the needs of persons with disabilities in all aspects of social, political and economic development efforts,

Cabactulan said.

Last year, the Philippines enacted Republic Act 10070, known as An Act Establishing an Institutional Mechanism to Ensure the Implementation of Programs and Services for Persons with disabilities in Every Province, City and Municipality.

Under the law, national agencies and local government units are mandated to implement policies, plans and programs for the promotion of the welfare of persons with disabilities. It also tasked these agencies to enter into joint ventures with

organizations of persons with disabilities to explore livelihood opportunities and other undertakings that will enhance the health, physical fitness and the economic and social well beings of these individuals.

“National efforts, however, to be truly effective, must be complemented by regional and international efforts and we cannot overemphasize the importance of disability inclusive development cooperation within the framework of bilateral, regional and multilateral initiatives,” Cabactulan said. (AJPress)

blocks from here and sometimes, after church, my mother would bring us here to Capitol Park and it never dawned on us to enter the building. We were happy to be near it. And now, here we are, inside, sitting in the front row.

“Personally, also, my dear friends who I see out here.

Throughout the years we have been mirrors for one other and we have been the bulb for one another. You’ve kept me sane, and you’ve made me laugh, and I skip than I’ll need more than years to come.

“Professionally, it’s important to be in the Capitol because, my colleagues—my Superior Court colleagues, my brethren in the Court of Appeals, and also my future brethren in the Supreme Court as well as my colleagues from the Bar—can be here. And I call my professional brethren my day family,” Justice Cantil-Sakauye related.

The Chief Justice gave special mention to her most recent day family, the Third District Court of Appeal, for having “graciously shared their experience, statutory interpretations with their views, arch, how to cook spam, law. We’ve had those discussions, and I am a better jurist for it. So I guess I should say to you, Third, that I think I have you to blame for this.”

“I think that it is the convergence of these three groups of NEW CHIEF JUSTICE OF CALIFORNIA. California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger congratulates newlypeople in my life that gives me great strength,” Chief Justice sworn in California Supreme Court Chief Justice Tani Gorre Cantil-Sakauye at the rotunda of the State Cantil-Sakauye surmised. “I will bring with me to this task Capitol on December 3, 2010. Looking on are Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye’s family members and retiring AJPress photo by Joseph Peralta the strength of my family, the kindness and humor of my Chief Justice Ronald George. friends, and the wisdom and experience of my friends and as well as being a fierce advocate for the courts by tirelessly looking colleagues.” for more money and resources for the California court system.

Before ending her speech, the Chief Justice thanked her parents, “Ron, on behalf of all Californians, I just want to say thank you, in-laws and her husband, Mark Sakauye. thank you, thank you for the extraordinary job you have done,” the Earlier, Governor Schwarzenegger received thunderous applause Governor said, which was met by wild applause from the audience. when he began his remarks saying, “today is a historic and proud day Retiring Chief Justice Ron George, for his part, issued his congratfor California. In just a few moments, I will have the honor of swear- ulations to both Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye and Gov. Schwarzeneging in the first Filipino chief justice in the history of California.” ger.

Schwarzenegger told the audience that the departure of Chief JusSaying that the new Chief Justice’s story was compelling, George tice Ron George left monstrous shoes to be filled, and he searched revealed that Tani possesses a unique blend of skills to carry out for someone with strong experience and unimpeachable integrity, the duties as the next Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court, and someone who possesses a firm respect for the Constitution and which is the largest judicial system in the United States. an unwavering commitment to justice which led him to Tani Cantil“Her experience as a judge, prosecutor, deputy legal affairs secreSakauye. tary and deputy legislative secretary will serve her in good stead. This “I could not have found a more capable and qualified nominee,” means she has served in all three branches of government which will Gov. Schwarzenegger said after saying that the new Chief Justice is help her as the new Chief Justice of the California Supreme Court,” a living, breathing example of the American dream and an inspiring Chief Justice George said. example for young boys and girls, as she put herself through college George also congratulated the Governor for having taken the task by waiting on tables. of judicial appointments to heart.

The Governor then went on to congratulate and thank the family of “You are unequaled in terms of diversity,” George revealed, referJustice Cantil-Sakauye for “having raised this wonderful person right ring to the California bench appointments made by Gov. Schwarhere” (referring to the newly-elected Chief Justice).” zenegger. “You have appointed many women to the bench, in fact, Gov. Schwarzenegger also congratulated Ron George for “the ex- more than any of your predecessors.” traordinary job he has done for the Golden State,” and told the audi“Now there is a majority of women in the California Supreme ence that he had the deepest respect and admiration for George.

Court more than any point in its history,” George added. “We are all He commended George for having led the California Supreme to be congratulated on our good fortune.”

Court the last 14 years -- issuing decisions on a variety of issues, inChief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye begins her term on January 3, cluding property and criminal law, civil rights, marriage and equality, 2011. Her term will end in 2020.

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Dr. Fe del Mundo, World-class Pinay Pediatrician

A Life Devoted to the Filipino Child

by Cynthia de

Castro / AJPress

NOWADAYS, it is very rare to hear of someone still actively working at the age of 99 years old. Thus, it is amazing to see the sight of Dr. Fe del Mundo, still lovingly caring for children at the hospital she founded more than half a century ago, the Fe del Mundo Children’s Medical Center Foundation in Banawe, Quezon City, which is the country’s first pediatric hospital.

Last November 27, 2010, the Philippine’s greatest pediatrician celebrated her 99th birthday with the launching of a coffee table book entitled Dr. Fe del Mundo: A Beautiful Life, with the subtitle, “A Life Devoted to the Filipino Child.”

Dr. del Mundo’s life has indeed been a beautiful one that has been passionately committed to Filipino children. She has never married and has chosen to devote her whole life to caring for countless children in the country. Her life’s work has earned her around 100 service awards and academic and corporate titles, as well as affiliations with medical organizations here and abroad. One whole floor in her hospital is filled with her trophies and awards, while plaques, certificates, magazine clippings (including pieces from Time), photos and other memorabilia are mounted on the hallways of the medical center.

The awards that stand out in Del Mundo’s career are unsurpassed. She was the first woman to be admitted to Harvard Medical School (1936), the first Filipino diplomate of the American Board of Pediatrics (1947), first Asian president of the Medical Women’s International Association (1962), first woman president of the Philippine Pediatric Society (1952), and first woman president of the Philippine Medical Association (1972).

In 1957, she founded the first pediatric hospital in the Philippines, which has been named after her.

In 1980, President Ferdinand Marcos named del Mundo as a National Scientist of the Philippines, the first Filipino woman to be so-named. Among the international honors bestowed on Dr. del Mundo was the Elizabeth Blackwell Award for Outstanding Service to Mankind, handed in 1966 by Hobart and William Smith Colleges, and the citation as Outstanding Pediatrician and Humanitarian by the International Pediatric Association in 1977.

Also in 1977, del Mundo was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service. On April 22, 2010, President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo awarded del Mundo the Order of Lakandula with the rank of Bayani at the Malacañang Palace.

Fe Del Mundo was born on November 27,1911 in Intramuros, Manila, where her family lived just across the Manila Cathedral. Her father Bernardo served one term in the Philippine Assembly, representing the province of Tayabas. Three of her 8 siblings died in infancy, while an older sister died from appendicitis at age 11. It was the death of her older sister, who had made known her desire to become a doctor for the poor, which spurred young del Mundo towards the medical profession.

Del Mundo enrolled at the University of the Phil-

ippines, Manila in 1926 where she received an associate in arts degree at 17, and her medical degree from the UP College of Medicine in 1933, graduating as class valedictorian. She passed the medical board exam that same year, placing third in the national medical board exams.

After her graduation from UP, then President Manuel Quezon offered Del Mundo a full scholarship to any school in the United States for further training in a medical field of her choice.

She accepted the offer and chose to go to Harvard, arriving at Harvard Medical School in 1936. She was unwittingly enrolled in Harvard Medical School, an institution which did not yet then admit female students. As recounted in her official Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation biography “[Del Mundo] humorously relates that when she arrived in Boston and went to the dormitory assigned her in a letter from the director of the hospital housing, much to her surprise she found herself in a men’s dorm.

Unknowingly the Harvard officials had admitted a female to their all-male student body. But because her record was so strong, the head of the pediatrics department saw no reason not to accept her. Thus, upsetting Harvard tradition, she became the first Philippine woman and the only female at the time to be enrolled at the Harvard Medical School.”

Harvard Medical School began to accept female students only in 1945, nine years after Del Mundo was enrolled in the school. She remained in HMS until 1938, completing 3 Pediatric courses. She then took up a residency at the Billings Hospital of the University of Chicago, before returning to Massachusetts in 1939 for a two-year research fellowship at the Harvard Medical School Children’s Hospital. She also enrolled at the Boston University School of Medicine, earning a Master’s degree in bacteriology in 1940.

The petite (barely 5 feet and weighing less than 100 pounds) doctor could have pursued a lucrative career in the United States but she came home in 1941, nurturing a dream to build a children’s hospital.

Del Mundo returned to the Philippines in 1941, shortly before the Japanese invasion of the country later that year. She joined the International Red Cross and volunteered to care for children-internees then detained at the University of Santo Tomas internment camp for foreign nationals. She set up a makeshift hospice within the internment camp, and her activities led her to be known as “The Angel of Santo Tomas.”After the Japanese authorities shut down the hospice in 1943, del Mundo was asked by Manila Mayor León G. Guinto, Sr. to head a children’s hospital under the auspices of the city

Donaire sends message...

PAGE A1 ing camp, forcing the Mexican middleweight to drop out. Chavez Jr.’s illness has paved the way for Donaire to shine in the main event spotlight.

Donaire, who will be moving up from flyweight to bantamweight, will face off against former WBA bantamweight titlist Volodymyr Sydorenko for an interim WBA title.

And the importance of this bout for Donaire is magnified because of the fact that he needs to win in order to preserve a future match – already signed - with bantamweight head honcho Fernando Montiel in February. HBO has already purchased the rights to televise the fight.

“I’m so focused right now. I’m set on beating Sydorenko,” said Donaire during the final press conference at the Biltmore Hotel in Downtown Los Angeles on Wednesday. “No matter what, I need to go in there and beat him. I feel like you guys are going to see a different Nonito Donaire. I’m more motivated than ever and I’m ready to give my all inside the ring.”

Sydorenko has other plans. The 34-year-old Ukranian (22-2-2 7

KOs) said if Donaire (24-1 16 KOs) expects him to be a stepping-stone in his career, he has another coming to him.

“I’m not just going to be a stepping stone so he can fight in a bigger match,” said Sydorenko through an interpreter. “I’m a former world champion and Olympic medalist. This is my first fight in the US. People can expect one thing from me – a win.”

Donaire said Sydorenko will be a tough opponent, but he expects to not only win but also win impressively.

“I want to make a statement to Montiel,” said Donaire.

Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum said it’s important for Donaire to win -- and win in an exciting fashion, this Saturday. Arum said not only was Donaire not ready to be a main event fighter but also, the major networks like HBO are hesitant to put “the little guys, the 115118 pound boxer in the show.”

“This fight is very important for Donaire because it leads to Montiel and other bigger fights down the road,” said Arum. “Next year is the year for Donaire. That’s when we’re going to make a big push for him.”

Arum on Pacquiao’s next opponent Bob Arum said he would choose Sugar Shane Mosley to be Manny Pacquiao’s next opponent but it’s not up to him to decide.

“If I had to pick I’d choose Mosley but it’s not up me. It’s up to Manny,” said Arum.

Arum said he has not heard from the Floyd Mayweather Jr. camp about a possible mega match with the Filipino champion but he has spoken with Andre Berto’s promoter Lou DiBella and although he hasn’t spoken to Golden Boy CEO Richard Schaefer directly because of an ongoing feud, Top Rank has been in contact with Golden Boy regarding a Pacquiao re-match with Mexican lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez.

Arum said right now, he’s taking in the proposals from the various camps and will discuss the offers in person with Pacquiao in the coming weeks.

Arum said he and Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, will be flying to the Philippines to celebrate Pacquiao’s 32nd birthday. He expects Pacquiao to have a decision by then on whom to fight next.

“I’m going to show him all the proposals and he’s going to decide,” said Arum. (Joseph Pimentel / AJPress)

government.

The hospital was later converted into a full-care medical center to cope with the mounting casualties during the Battle of Manila, and would be renamed the North General Hospital (later, the Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center). Del Mundo would remain the hospital’s director until 1948.

Del Mundo joined the faculty of the University of Santo Tomas, then the Far Eastern University in 1954. She, likewise, established a small medical pediatric clinic to pursue a private practice.

Pursuing her dream to establish her own pediatric hospital, del Mundo sold her home and most of her personal effects and obtained a sizable loan from the GSIS in order to finance the construction of her own hospital. The Children’s Medical Center, a 100-bed hospital located in Quezon City, was inaugurated in 1957 as the first pediatric hospital in the Philippines. The hospital was expanded in 1966 through the establishment of an Institute of Maternal and Child Health, the first institution of its kind in Asia.

Having sold her home to finance the medical center, del Mundo chose to reside at the secondfloor of the hospital itself. She rises up daily at the hospital at five in the morning, attends mass and continues to make her daily rounds even though she is now wheelchair-bound at 99 years of age.

She also keeps a “3 o’clock afternoon prayer” habit.

After dinner, she retires to her second-floor suite.

Del Mundo is noted for her pioneering work on infectious diseases in Philippine communities. In the 1950s, she pursued studies on dengue fever, a common malady in the Philippines of which little was then yet known of. Her clinical observations on dengue, and the findings of research she later undertook on the disease are said to “have led to a fuller understanding of dengue fever as it afflicts the young”.

Del Mundo has been active in the field of public health, with special concerns towards rural communities. She organized rural extension teams to advise mothers on breastfeeding and child care and promoted the idea of linking hospitals to the community through the public immersion of physicians and other medical personnel to allow for greater coordination among health workers and the public for common health programs such as immunization and nutrition. She called for the greater integration of midwives into the medical community, considering their more visible presence within rural communities.

In 1973, she invented an open native incubator to be used in rural communities without electrical power for premature, low-weight or jaundice-stricken infants. Lightweight, portable and affordable, the incubator consists of a native crib made of rattan and a semi-cylindrical lampshade made of bamboo. “I put in hot water bottles all around between

them. I put a little hood over it and attached oxygen for the baby,” she says.

“We had to do with whatever was available.”

Del Mundo was also editor-in-chief for the only textbook for Philippine pediatrics, and wrote 150 studies on pediatrics published in local and foreign journals. She also authored Textbook of Pediatrics, a fundamental medical text used in Philippine medical schools.

The heart of Del Mundo shows that her life’s work has not been about making money. She once said: “To be in medicine, you must not expect to get rich. It is more charity work than amassing wealth.” In fact, she made sure that she helped the poor and those in rural areas. She trained the country’s best pediatricians and sent teams of medical personnel to far-flung areas of the country to treat sick children.

In a quote on her biographical book’s back cover, Del Mundo speaks of the value of giving one’s all to what one does: “I believe that if you give the world the best that you can, the best will always come back to you.” And that’s what she has always done when she treated her patients- giving them her best, and giving them lots of hope and care. “I always feel that my patients will get well. I tell the parents to just pray, be hopeful ... and I will do the caring,” she said.

Asked about her prescription for long life, the 99year old doctor said, “Leave the dining table a little less full, a little hungry, and you will live longer.”

The doctor prefers a diet of fish and vegetables and admits that she has not eaten rice for the last 40 years (or when she hit her 50s). “They say that if you want to live long, eat less,” she added.

“I’m glad that I have been very much involved in the care of children, and that I have been relevant to them. They are the most outstanding feature in my life,” says Del Mundo.

“It is a very rewarding task to contribute to the building of a world of happy and healthy children of whom the Divine Physician bespoke his concern and affection: “Suffer the little children to come unto me, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.” n

A DECEMBER 10-16, 2010 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

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Opinion

Features

The cause of charity Sri Mulyani Indrawati, World Bank (WB)’s managing director, personally visited the country’s urban poor community recently in Pasay City; going doorto-door in the homes of the beneficiaries of the Conditional Cash Transfer (CCT) program of the government also known as the Pantawid Pamilyang Pilipino Program (4Ps) which was initiated during the Arroyo administration.

The WB, known to be one of the biggest supporters of the CCT program, approved $405 million worth of loan last Dec. 2009, in which $320million was alloted for the CCT cash subsidies. Under the CCT, the families receive cash aids on the condition that the parents will continue to send their children to school and put them on regular immunizations and checkups.

According to an article posted on WB’s website, one CCT beneficiary, Josephine Manuel, said that the cash aid has been “a great help” for buying the school supplies her children needs. She also said that the school supplies also motivates her children to do well in school. Like Josephine, most mothers in Pasay said that the cash aid was spent mostly on their children’s food, vitamins, and medicines.

Speaking in behalf of WB, Indrawati said after meeting President Aquino last Dec. 6 that the confidence that the Filipino people bestowed upon the latter has opened up a chain of opportunities; among which are the CCT, the public-private partnership (PPP), and the infrastructure programs.

However, despite its intent of alleviating poverty by

focusing on the welfare of children, the overall budget of P21billion ($481.8million) alloted to CCT for its expansion next year has caused some eyebrows to rise—especially some social welfare groups—implying that the program risks other pro-poor programs.

Social Watch Philippines (SWP), an international network of citizen’s organizations aimed at eradicating poverty and its causes, recently called out to the Congress who will approve the 2011 national budget next week, to reconsider realigning the “lump sums” alloted for projects that “do not reflect a comprehensive solution to poverty.”

SWP’s lead convenor, Leonor Magtolis Briones, said in a report from the Manila Bulletin that that the government “slashed the budget for the Indigents’ Program under the Philippine Health Insurance Program by 33 percent. The out-of-school youth only gets one percent of the Department of Education (DepEd) budget. The slash in the housing budget from P11 billion to P5.6 billion means more homeless families and informal settlers. There are about four million families suffering from hunger and yet, they reduced the budget of the Department of Agriculture (DA) from P41 billion to P37 billion.”

Likewise, Prof. Marivic Raquiza of the National College of Public Administration and Governance of the University of the Philippines (UP_NCPAG) said that the “CCT only addresses issues on maternal and child mortality and on keeping children in school for five years.”

President Aquino, meanwhile, expressed his con-

EDITORIAL

Inquirer.net photo

cern and has called on the concerned groups who might want to suggest on improving the delivery of the CCT program that includes its guideposts and the targets it must achieve.

As it is voluntary, charity should be freely given

without any conditions and naturally does not choose no person, no time, nor place. It is not measured by how big or how little is shared, but is recognized on how much is willing to be given wholeheartedly without any feeling of regret. (AJPress)

Obama’s deal with Republicans: Weakness or pragmatism?

AFTER more than two years of debate, The Fil-Am bickering and speculation, the question on Perspective what to do with the controversial Bush tax cuts has been addressed in Washington. President Gel Santos-Relos Obama has just struck a deal with Republicans to lay down bipartisan framework to extend tax cuts to all Americans for two more years, including the top 2% who are the richest of billionaires.

This was his battlecry—repeated over and over again—when he was running for President in 2008: Repeal the Bush tax Cuts for the Rich!

But as Obama himself said, when he announced the compromise, he had to give some to win some. While he would have wanted the rich to pay the same tax rate during the Clinton years to help reduce the deficit while giving tax break to the middle class to stimulate the economy, not reaching a compromise with the Republicans would remove the lifeline support for more than two million unemployed Americans whose jobless benefits are set to expire next month.

“In exchange for a temporary extension of the tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans,” Obama announced, “ we will be able to protect key tax cuts for

working families—the Earned Income Tax Credit that helps families climb out of poverty; the Child Tax Credit that makes sure families don’t see their taxes jump up to $1,000 for every child; and the American Opportunity Tax Credit that ensures over 8 million students and their families don’t suddenly see the cost of college shooting up.”

Obama reminded his colleagues, particularly the liberal Democrats who were disappointed about this deal, “The American people did not send us here to fight symbolic battles and win symbolic victories,” President Obama said. “They sent us here to solve problems.”

Republicans praised Obama for reaching out in compromise, but many Democrats called this “caving in” to so called “Republican tantrums” as “a sign of weakness in our Commander-in-Chief.”

They said he should have “drawn the line in the sand” and stood up for what he promised the American people during the campaign.

Republicans have maintained they would have much wanted to make the Bush tax cuts for all Americans permanent, as this policy will give the rich

and the small businesses the resources to invest more in the economy that will help provide jobs to jobless Americans.

They have always argued that raising the taxes for anybody during a recession will kill jobs and hurt the ailing economy even more.

Democrats counter argue that such “trickling down” of wealth does not work. The Bush tax cuts have not stimulated the economy, but instead, have dug us deeper into debt and deficit after having surplus during the Clinton years.

They accuse the Republicans about being hypocritical about wanting to reduce our trillion-dollar deficit because this deal, they say, would mean we would have to borrow money from China adding further to our ballooning deficit, only to give welfare to the rich.

“But these tax cuts will expire in two years. And I’m confident that as we make tough choices about bringing our deficit down, as I engage in a conversation with the American people about the hard choices we’re going to have to make to secure our future and our children’s future and our grandchildren’s future, it will become apparent that we cannot afford to extend those tax cuts any longer,” Obama reassured those who fear this may pave the way for the Republicans to make these tax cuts for the rich permanent, especially with the

GOP in control of the house in the next two years.

While the moderates look at this move of Obama as a gesture of “reaching out to Republicans” a signal for the GOP to work with him in issues like the passing of the DREAM Act , or the Comprehensive Immigration Reform Law, or bills that protect the environment, many Democrats do not share the same optimism. Republicans, they say, have vowed to make ousting Obama out of office in 2012 as their top priority and there is no way they think they will work with Obama now. The Commander-in-Chief, they say, has just yielded his power to the Republicans.

President Obama promised that under his Presidency, there will no longer be” blue states” or “red states,” and that we will be the United States of America.

While the Republicans may have labeled him the most leftist polarizing President in history, Obama’s own partymates, ironically, have accused him of betraying the ideals of the Democratic Party by giving in to the Republicans’ demands.

As he moves to the Center, Obama has apparently created more enemies than friends in this divided political world.

In one CNN panel discussion on Parks and Spitzer, Obama was described as making bipartsanship his end rather than his means to get things done in

Washington. Crtitics say if Obama does not want to be a Jimmy Carter, he needs to be more like FDR—decisive, strong, combatant in making sure he achieves what he believes will be good for the country. Of course, we know that doing this, as evidenced by his fight on the health care insurance reform, he had been called by the conservatives as a dictator who shoves his socialist agenda down peoples’ throat.

This divisive and fiery debate will continue, and we will be hearing more toxic remarks from the right and the left. The US deficit will also continue to grow. As America finds its way out of the pits, one thing is for sure—Americans who are about to lose their homes or have feared of not having the means to feed their family as their jobless benefits expire next month have found a new lifeline in this deal with the Republicans. Obama’s “weakness” or “compromise?’ Caving in, or realistic pragmatic governance? It depends what side you are in, or whether you have a check coming in the mail next month. *** Gel Santos Relos is the anchor of TFC’s “Balitang America.” Views and opinions expressed by the author in this column are are solely those of the author and not of Asian Journal and ABS-CBN-TFC. For comments, go to www.TheFil-AmPerspective.com,facebook.com/gelrelos, twitter.com/gelsantosrelos.

Don’t throw out the baby with the bath water

Street Talk

Greg B. Macabenta I know this is a subject matter that the Department of Tourism and its ad agency, Campaigns & Grey, would rather not keep in the fire, but Ijust feel that the piranha syndrome has gotten in the way of creating a good campaign for Philippine tourism.

Once somebody revealed that the graphic design used in the Pilipinas Kay Ganda campaign was copied from a Polish tourism layout, everyone and his uncle began tearing away at the hapless DOT and its ad agency with comments ranging from the incisive to the insulting, and from the reasonable to the ridiculous, pretty much like a horde of that nasty fish with razor sharp teeth.

What has muddled the situation is the fact that some folks can’t tell the difference between a graphic design and a campaign theme. Many of them happen to be newspaper columnists and media commentators.

One columnist called Pilipinas Kay Ganda an “insipid” slogan ostensibly because the design

was copied from a Polish design.

Duh. So,what does the design have to do with the theme statement?

Besides, if Pilipinas Kay Ganda is insipid, what about “Amazing Thailand? If the Thai campaign were not so successful, would it be insipid too?

I think the issue of the theme statement (or the slogan, as everyone wants to call it) and the graphic design should be addressed separately. The fact that the design was copied doesn’t necessarily make the concept of Pilipinas Kay Ganda or Pilipinas, the Beautiful unacceptable.

To disregard it as a concept because of the copied visualization is like throwing the baby out with the bath water.

Pilipinas Kay Ganda should be evaluated on its own merits, detached from the embarrassing graphic design. There must hundreds of way to visualize that theme statement.

In fact, it reminds me of that nice campaign created by Philippine Airlines decades ago, “The beauty of the Philippines—shining through” (by my friends, Manny Gutierrez, then advertising manager of PAL, and Tom Banguis, president of the ad agency, Aviacom),

Unfortunately, too many people have already joined the piranha throng and ripped the Pilipinas Kay Ganda campaign apart.

And those involved have already stiffened their defense of or attacks against the concept. Amor propio has set it. It’s not likely that they will graciously back out of their self-righteous positions and concede that there is a lot of merit in the theme, even if it means chopping off the heads of thecopycat graphics designer and creative director.

It hasn’t helped that Yoly Ong, chair of Campaigns & Grey, lashed back at her critics by singling some of them out for a vicious counter-attack, using the folks-who-live-in-glass-housesshouldn’t-throw- stones tactic.

It’s sad, because Yoly and Greg Garcia, former who felt alluded to in her column, Pilipinas Kay Ganda, are two of the finest creative people in Philippine advertising.

Greg is former chairman and creative director of Hemisphere Leo Burnett in Manila, But I think that Greg is right about the use of the Polish design by Campaigns being indefensible.

What’s even more indefensible, however, is the way the DOT apologists tried to lamely

rationalize the blatant lift-off.

They should simply have admitted the stark similarity and profusely apologized, head hung, tail between their legs, red-faced and all.

Undersecretary Enteng Romano was right in owning up to the mess and resigning. Nothing more need be said about it. Calling his act “heroic” is a stretch. He just did the right thing, after admitting to doing the wrong thing, For sure, it’s not easy to do - being caught with your pants down and taking responsibility.

Ask the US State Department and, indeed, the Obama administration and the officials on the front lines of American foreign relations, in the face of the Wikileaks Pandora’s box.

But, the harsh truth is, if this were not a world of hypocrites, we’d be hearing the nastiest things diplomats say about each other under their breath, while mouthing the most elegant language. And we’d be seeing the fangs behind the charming smiles. At least, the Koreans, from North and South, don’t have to pretend that they like each other.

I have a feeling, the person who discovered that the Campaigns & Grey design had been

copied from a Polish campaign was probably doing “research” himself (or herself), perhaps in search of “inspiration” for an advertising campaign.

In fact, I’m willing to bet that most graphics designers and copywriters have been similarly “inspired” by other people’s works. That’s why they publish those thick art directors’ books to which ad agencies subscribe, and why Harry Wayne McMahan of Advertising Age used to show the “100 best commercials” to the ad industry. To “inspire.”

What makes the Pilipinas Kay Ganda case “indefensible,” as Greg Garcia put it, is in the way the Polish design was so closely copied, whoever did it probably thought he (or she) could get away with it. That was no longer inspiration. That was just plain laziness.

Unfortunately for copycats, in this era of super Internet search engines, there’s hardly a great creative piece that hasn’t been encoded and, therefore, liable to be unearthed by a determined researcher (or intending copycat or plagiarist).

But, having said all of that, I frankly believe that Yoly is right about the Pilipinas Kay Ganda theme being on target. I’m say-

ing this, not simply on the basis of the agency’s consumer feedback, but based on my own experience and perceptions as an overseas Pinoy.

Believe me, you appreciate the beauty of the Philippines so much more if you view our country from far away and in the context of other places. I distinctly recall traveling through some countries once (I won’t name them for obvious reasons) and then flying back to Manila and being amazed at how beautiful—really beautiful—Filipinos were, in comparison, especially our women.

Of course, so much more ought to be done to support the Pilipinas Kay Ganda claim. And a budget of one hundred million pesos, quite frankly, will not buy very much time and space in the highly competitive international tourism marketing environment.

But it’s a start. And if enough efforts were exerted to harness the true believers among us overseas Pinoys, we can echo that statement and bring the message to our friends, neighbors, officemates and intending travelers wherever we live in the world.

Believe me, it’s true. Ang Pilipinas, tunay na kay ganda. (gregmacabenta@hotmail. com)

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Dateline USA

NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL • DECEMBER 10-16, 2010

Filipinos sue hospital...

CHRISTMAS SEASON. A Filipino uses a rope to secure a Christmas tree at the back of his vehicle in suburban Manila. Christmas is one of the most festive seasons in the Philippines, Asia’s largest Roman Catholic nation, with Filipinos lighting up their homes with bright and colorfu lanterns and preparing weeks in advance for big family reunions.

AP photo

Fil-Ams urged to push...

PAGE A1

pinos should let their voice be heard on the issue.

“The Filipino-American community is a viable group. We matter now and our leaders know that,” she said.

It is believed the Filipino-American vote in Nevada helped Sen. Reid win the neck and neck race against his Republican foe in the November mid-term election. The victory enabled the Democrat senator to retain his position as Senate majority leader.

As majority leader, Reid remained in charge of the Senate’s legislative calendar. He has tried to have the DREAM Act passed last September as part of the Defense bill. But this was shot down by Republicans. The senator has since committed to make it a priority in Congress lame-duck session.

But even with Sen. Reid’s tireless support of the bill, prospects for its passage remain dim given the lack of interest from Congressional members.

Democrats face an uphill climb to gather the 60 votes needed over opposition by most Republicans and a handful of their own members, an AP report stated.

Nonetheless, President Obama had already praised House leaders “for taking the historic first step of passing the DREAM Act” with a bipartisan vote last Wednesday, Dec. 8.

“This vote is not only the right thing to do for a group of talented young people who seek to serve a country they know as their own by continuing their education or serving in the military, but it is the right thing for the United States of America,” the president said in a statement.

“This vote is a vitally important step to doing what the American people expect their policymakers to do: work together to address the nation’s most pressing problems. The DREAM Act corrects one of the most egregious flaws of a badly broken immigration system,” he added.

The President noted he commends the House “moving past the tired sound bites and false debates that have pushed immigration rhetoric into the extremes for far too long.”

“The DREAM Act is not amnesty. It’s about accountability, and about tapping into a pool of talent we’ve already invested in.

The bill gives qualified immigrants conditional status for six years, during which he or she will be required to either serve two years in the US military or complete at least two years in a 4-year degree program. After the conditional status, the person can apply for US citizenship.

Earlier this week, the White House in a series of telephone conference calls in an effort to inform the public about the piece of legislation and at the same time, sway Congress into approving it.

“We believe prospects for the DREAM Act should be good if we move past politics and look at what is good for the country,” Cecilia Muñoz, White House Director of Intergovernmental Affairs said in a Dec. 7 telephone conference call.

Approval of the DREAM Act in the current lame-duck session of Congress is seen as the last chance for the bill to be made into law.

Next year, Republicans will take control of the House and get a stronger minority in the Senate, virtually ending an opportunity to pass a measure that would grant millions of undocumented youth a chance to be US citizens.

“I strongly urge the US Senate to also pass the DREAM Act so that I can sign it into law as soon as possible,” President Obama said in his statement.

Pinoys don’t earn...

PAGE A1 egory” when it comes to data collecting.

Generally, Asian Americans as a whole have the lowest high school dropout rate and highest proportions of Bachelor’s and Graduate degree earners among all racial and ethnic groups. But when broken down, certain Asian American subgroups have lower levels of education attainment.

Assemblymember Mike Eng said this is just the tip of the iceberg in terms of data-collecting among Asian Americans.

“If you ask for information in Sacramento about how Asian Americans do in terms of health needs, education, prisons, how many juvenile youths we have or how many Asians take the mass transit or freeways, you will find the shocking fact that they don’t have information about that.

We are part of the ‘Other’ category,” said Eng, who is spearheading a bill AB 1737 that will require state agencies to breakdown data into additional ethnic groups.

“They have information about other groups like Latinos, African Americans and Caucasians, which they should, but they have no information on us or our communities.”

Eng added it’s these kinds of data information that non-profit and community organizations rely on so they can seek certain state agencies help or resources when it comes to serving their community.

“When data is lumped together it can become dangerous. Not many people know that the highest rate of offenders in the probation system are Asian American, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders,” he said.

“But if you were to go to an official or head of a church or

the person in the street and ask them if they thought Asian Americans are in jail or rank the gang problem in terms of ethnic group, the last group they would say are Asian Americans… They don’t know and this is dangerous.”

“If we don’t address the problems, there will be more victims,” he added.

Filipino education According to the report, Filipino students in California graduate from high school but are more likely to enroll in a community college than a four-year university.

Two thirds of Filipinos and 62 percent of APIs are enrolled in a California community college.

The study reveals that Filipino students, with the exception of whites, are successful in community colleges overall compared to all other racial and ethnic groups.

But it’s unclear whether these students went on to transfer and earn a degree at a four-year university, according to De La Cruz-Viesca.

The report states that in 2008, more Filipinos received associate degrees from a community college than a four-year-university.

The study also reveals that Filipinos who do receive a bachelor’s degree don’t go on to graduate school. Of the 625 medical degrees awarded at the University of California in 2008, only two percent were awarded to Filipinos. Of the 825 law degrees from a UC school, only 1 percent were Filipino in 2008.

De La Cruz-Viesca said more studies are needed to find out why Filipinos don’t go on to pursue higher education. She said that finances might hinder many of them from going to a four-year university or graduate school.

PAGE A1 Filipino-American employees in enforcing the policy.

Among all their employees of various ethnicities, defendants required only Filipino-American employees to attend mandatory meetings with management. During these meetings, DRMC management told the Filipino-American employees that they were prohibited from speaking Tagalog and other Filipino languages at the workplace.

DRMC reprimanded them, threatened to monitor them with audio surveillance and threatened to discipline and suspend employees who will be caught speaking Tagalog. Defendants also encouraged other employees to report Filipino-American employees to supervisors, which created tension and hostility among employees. Filipino-American employees were monitored, chastised and threatened by supervisors and other co-workers who constantly told them to speak English.

During the press conference held at the APALC office in Los Angeles December 7, two of the

plaintiffs, Wilma Lamug and Elnora Cayme, spoke about the unfair treatment they received from DRMC management.

“DRMC’s actions made us feel humiliated, isolated, and unvalued as employees. Many of us, including myself, had worked hard for DRMC for ten or twenty years. Despite our loyalty and years of service, we were shocked that DRMC singled out FilipinoAmerican workers and blatantly discriminated against us,” said Plaintiff Wilma Lamug, a Licensed Vocational Nurse at DRMC for more than ten years.

Elnora Cayme, a licensed vocational nurse and respiratory therapist who has worked for DRMC for 27 years, said amid tears, “I have lived in Delano since I immigrated to the States in 1978 with my parents and siblings. DRMC is our community hospital. A majority of the hospital’s staff was made up of Filipino health care professionals.

I don’t know why they treated us so unjustly, even if we were all so loyal and devoted to our jobs.”

“DRMC enforced an overly restrictive and draconian Eng-

FASO featured in French...

PAGE A1 with remix and live albums, and the Tron: Legacy soundtrack.

Wes Olson, the producer of the music teaser video, said that one of his assistants referred FASO to him when they were looking for an orchestra to join Daft Punk in the video and the film shoot for Dazed & Confused Magazine.

“I got in touch with some members of the orchestra and the meet-

ing went well so we decided to get them for the filming,’ said Olson.

Dazed & Confused is a Britishstyle magazine,that was set up in 1992 and is published monthly, covering topics that include music, fashion, film, art and literature.

Throughout the 1990s, the magazine’s influence grew as its format evolved and the reputations of those it had championed early in their careers blossomed.

A

lish-only policy against only its Filipino-American employees that cannot be justified by a business necessity. As a result, DRMC created a workplace environment that was hostile towards its FilipinoAmerican employees and unfortunately increased tensions between Filipino and non-Filipino employees,” said Julie A. Su, Litigation Director at APALC. APALC, on behalf of the employees, is moving to intervene in a lawsuit that was filed by the US Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) on August 18, 2010. The EEOC’s lawsuit alleges that DRMC’s acts of national origin discrimination and harassment violate federal law (Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964).

APALC’s complaint alleges that DRMC violated federal law as well as California state law, specifically California ’s Fair Employment and Housing Act. The lawsuit seeks an injunction to prevent future discrimination, as well as financial compensation from defendants for the employees.

According to EEOC, the hospital prohibited Filipino staff from speaking Tagalog while allowing non-Filipino employees to speak other languages, such as

Spanish. “Employers must ensure that company policies are applied equally,” said Anna Park, regional attorney of the EEOC’s Los Angeles Dustrict Office. “Targeting workers of a particular national origin is not only illegal, it also erodes company morale—pitting groups against one another.”

Wilma Lamug said other Filipino-Americans who are victims of discrimination should not be afraid to speak up. “Don’t keep your mouth shut. Seek help like we did,” Lamug said. Elnora Cayme added, “Huwag kayong matakot o mahiya (Don’t be afraid or embarrassed.) Speak up for your rights.”

“An employer like DRMC with a diverse clientele should view an employee’s ability to speak another language as an asset, not a disadvantage. It is reprehensible that our clients were singled out for enforcement of the English only policy and harassed. Employers need to know that this type of discrimination and harassment on the basis of national origin is illegal,” said Carmina Ocampo , a staff attorney at APALC. “We hope this case encourages other immigrant workers to do as these workers did, and stand up publicly and demand their rights.” n

The December edition of Dazed celebrates radical visions for the future, with a world exclusive feature with Daft Punk in Los Angeles as they unveil their soundtrack for the 3D sci-fi blockbuster TRON: Legacy.

The issue of the magazine comes with specially inserted glasses in order to see the spectacular 3D shoot by photographer Sharif Hamza and styled by senior menswear editor Robbie Spencer.

The photos show several members

of FASO in the background.

“The magazine supposedly hit newsstands on Nov. 19.... at least in Europe..... not sure if it’s quite out here yet.... but check the newsstands! The one on Cahuenga and Hollywood Blvd (or is it Sunset Blvd?) is a good candidate to find it, or also Centerfolds on Fairfax just north of Melrose. It could possibly take another week or so before it’s out in the US though.

But spread the word around,” said Olson. (AJPress)

A DECEMBER 10-16, 2010 • NEW YORK AND NEW JERSEY ASIAN JOURNAL

http://www.asianjournal.com • (212) 655-5426

people events arts culture entertainment

DEC. 10-16, 2010

Piolo Pascual and his

Christian crusade

AJPress photo by Bert Jaurigue

2

An Asian Journal Magazine

Th e A s i a n J o u r n a l N E W YO R K / N E W J E R S EY D EC . 1 0, 20 1 0

Piolo Pascual shares the gospel and God’s grace by

T

Cynthia De Castro / AJPress

here are those who would go the extra mile for a selfless act or purpose. Last September 11, heartthrob and multi-awarded actor-singer Piolo Pascual went an extra 7,000 miles to help Charisma Life Church spread the Gospel and raise funds for an outreach center in Pomona.

In an exclusive interview with Asian Journal right before the concert, Piolo shared that it was his first Christian concert.

“I am passionate about God. I have surrendered my life to Him and I go wherever He takes me, do whatever He wants.“I

have shared my personal testimony before in a church in the Philippines. But this is the first time I will be doing a concert in a church, with almost half of the songs, Christian songs,” Piolo said.

Like in all his concerts, women shrieked and screamed and shouted, “I love you Piolo!” Several times, Piolo wanted to go around the auditorium but was prevented from doing so by throngs of ladies who all wanted to hug, kiss and take pictures with him. “Ladies, we are in a church. Please behave!” he said jokingly several times during the show.

Indeed, Piolo has an irresistible, indescribable charm—a fact which may be the secret to his continuing success. Yet, the devout born-again believer remains humble in giving due glory to his Maker and to the Lord Jesus Christ.

Starting the concert with the Christian song, Indescribable, Piolo shared his testimony which inspired the audience even more.

“I was at the top of my career when I surrendered my life to God. So many things were happening to me at that time. I had just finished Dekada 70 where we won 10 awards. At the young age of 25, I was winning awards and earning millions already.

I was working then with Donita Rose and she gave me a Bible.

Donita told me to read the Bible and it will change my life.”

“I thought how can a book change my life? I was then, so full of myself. I can act. I can sing. I’m talented. I thought I didn’t need anything. But, I’d go home and look at my trophies and feel there is a big void in my life. I appreciated the recognition from my peers in the industry but there was still something lacking; something missing in my life. I cried out to God-I don’t know what to do.”

“He then made me realize that I was living a very worldly life, apart from Him. Yet, God blessed me so much. It was then that I realized my need for God—not when I was at the bottom needing help—but when I was on top and had everything but God. I surrendered my life to God. And my life has never been the same. God has become my reason for living. I live to share my faith. There is an overflowing grace of God in me. I told our pastor I wanted to just be a pastor but he challenged me to remain in the entertainment industry. He said that God put me in the field of entertainment and I can reach more people where I am. My purpose is to be someone in showbiz who can spread the Truth of God’s Word. God has placed me here and I will shine for him,” said Piolo who now holds a bible study in his home every Sunday.

“He’s been so good to me,” he says. “Honestly, I don’t feel I deserve all these blessings. But I savor each one of them and

Willie plans to come back to the US with an ‘I Love You’

by Julie

AJPress photos by Bert Jaurigue

I treat it as a gift. Now I want to be a living example of God’s goodness.”

During the concert, the audience kept asking Piolo about KC, his rumored girlfriend. Piolo laughed as questions like “Asan si KC?,” and Kailan ang kasal?,” kept popping up.

“Busy si KC eh. But, we’re good. Our friendship is growing.

I like being around her. She’s one person I like sharing my life with.”

To questions about marriage, Piolo just said, “Hopefully, before I get to be 40, I will have a family.”

Speaking about his son, Iñigo, during the interview, Piolo admitted, “I am protective of my son, Iñigo. I don’t want him to enter showbiz. But, he is musically-inclined. I bring him to my sets during taping so he will see my life—like I have to be in the set at 6 am and work till past midnight. Then I asked him, do you want this kind of life? Yes, daw. But we have a deal—I told him to graduate first, get a college degree. If he wants to be an actor after he graduates, I can’t stop him.”

Asked by Asian Journal how he handles his finances, Piolo shared. “When I earn money, I put it straight to the bank. I want to be liquid and I save for rainy days. I also have insurance policies for the future. I invest in real estate—in the Philippines and in the US.” Because he is so busy with showbiz, Piolo said he really doesn’t have time for another full-time business. “If you have a business, you have to be hands on. Because of my career, I can’t be busy doing another business. But I have started producing.

My first venture was an independent film entitled Manila, which enabled me to attend Cannes Festival. I have also produced a second film, Kimidora,” revealed the actor/singer.

“I got into producing to expand my knowledge in my craft.

I am exploring the producing side. I want to find the right concept. I want films that give a lesson,” he stressed.

Piolo shared that two major Bible verses influence him in his life: Matthew 6:3 - “Seek first His Kingdom and His righteousness and all these things will be given to you as well,” and Proverbs 3:5-7 - “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight.”

“Life is not complete without any challenges,” Piolo acknowledged. “With God’s help, I know I can meet all the challenges. The soundtrack of my life is the song, I Will Rise by Chris Tomlin.”

The former Hunks idol has been called by God to meet a challenge, and by His grace, Piolo has risen excellently to show the grace and goodness of God.

Filipino Community in metro DC celebrate Christmas together in Paskong Pinoy

Matienzo

AJPress

Fans go wild as Willie sings their favorite song.

Willie gets emotional singing ‘Ikaw na nga’ to his fans

Only two weeks after a much-awaited comeback appearance via his new show Willing Willie on TV5, Willie Revillame proved once and for all that no amount of controversy can stop him from entertaining his countless fans.

In an exclusive interview with the Asian Journal, Willie shares his plans for his career, which includes taking Willing Willie abroad.

With the United States (US) as his first stop, the returning host is eyeing a Valentine show tour in February 2011 to take place in Los Angeles and San Francisco, dubbing it I Love You Willing Willie in sync with the release of his new album titled I Love You. Willie revealed plans on getting Willing Willie aired and promoted abroad. Currently, there are talks between him and the big bosses of major Philippine television stations that include the Chief Executive of GMA Network, Felipe Gozon and things will no doubt be finalized soon after.

According to the host, Gozon commended him during their lunch meeting how he was “such a big hit abroad,” adding that the CEO of GMA 7, along with his Board of Trustees, had a research done to find out how he managed to get the majority of the household ratings and why people are enamored with him.

Willie was amazed that Gozon and his group did a research on him. He was even more humbled when Gozon said that the “number one” reason

AJPress photos by Vince Samson

Ambassador Willy C. Gaa welcomed guests to Paskong Pinoy 2010 last December 5 at the Pryzbyla Center of the Catholic University of America. Paskong Pinoy started as a collaboration between the Embassy of the Philippines in Washington, DC and the Philippine American Foundation for Charities six years ago with the aim of drawing together the Filipino-American community to usher in the holiday season.

Washington, DC—Paskong Pinoy 2010, Christmas Celebration of Unity and Compassion, was staged on December 5, 2010 why people like him was because of his sincerity. at the Pryzbyla Center of the “Sabi ko ‘thank you ho.’ Sabi niya ‘We will work Catholic University of America. together,’” Willie says.

It was streamed live via www.

This, perhaps, excited Willie more. So when he theglobalchannel.com. was asked about what he misses most when he More than 400 guests came performs—especially outside the country, the host out to watch talented Filipinocould not help but feel nostalgic.

American artists in the DC area “It will take time [for me to perform again in perform famous Filipino Christmas the US] pero syempre nami-miss mo yung mga yun, songs and other Christmas gusto ko gawin ‘yun (But of course I missed doing carols including His Excellency shows like that, I want to do it again),” Willie said as Constancio da Conceicao Pinto, he recalls watching a music video where an artist Ambassador of Timor Leste, US comes out to perform before a live audience.

Army Major General Antonio “Paglabas mo parang ang daming tao, namiTaguba (Ret) and representatives miss mo yung ganun, napapasaya mo yung mga from The Heritage Foundation and tao (When you go out there where there’s a lot of Peace Corps Alumni Foundation people, you miss that—making people happy), he for Philippine Development. mused.

In his remarks, Ambassador A bigger and brighter show manifested in Willy C. Gaa noted several the stage set-up and program format of Willing occasions in the past year where Willie. Last October 30, the Asian Journal witnessed Filipinos joined hands to achieve how Willing Willie became a way for Revillame a common goal. He added to be reunited with his supporters, as a family of that on its sixth year, “Paskong balikbayans endured the long line outside the Pinoy continues to enjoy the studio just to catch a glimpse of him and personally support of many individuals and offer him their present during the show. organizations and has in fact, Willie is flattered by such gestures, saying that become an institution.” This is Continued on Page 5 largely because of the willingness

All the performers in Paskong Pinoy 2010 gathered on the stage to perform O Holy Night for the finale. Paskong Pinoy also serves as a venue for promoting Philippine culture and heritage in the mainstream DC community during the yuletide season. Among the guests in the concert held on December 5 at the Pryzbyla Center of the Catholic University of America were Ambassador Constancio da Conceicao Pinto of Timor Leste, US Army Major General Antonio Taguba (Ret) and representatives from The Heritage Foundation and Peace Corps Alumni Foundation for Philippine Development.

An appreciative audience gave the performers a standing ovation after the choral singing of O Holy Night at Paskong Pinoy held on December 5, 2010 at the Pryzbyla Center of the Catholic University of America. More than 400 guests came out to watch the Christmas concert which is now running on its sixth year.

of many actors to work together.

The Northern Virginia Rondalla opened the show with a unique rendition of Pasko na Naman, Mano po Ninong Mano po Ninang and Hark the Herald.

They were followed by a crisp performance of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas by opera major Ernest Zalamea.

The talented Quion siblings Justin Michael, Alexander Philip, Christopher James, Patrick Anthony and Katherine Michelle performed O Holy Night and Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy and Trepak (from the Nutcracker Suite) as a string quintet. A delighted audience sang with the Filipino Capitol SDA Children and Teens Vocal and Dance Ensemble as they sang and danced Pasko na Naman. To add to the distinct Filipino sound of Paskong Pinoy, the Tanghalang Pilipino and

Friends Angklung Ensemble played Himig Pasko, Pasko na Sinta Ko and Kling Kling Kling.

The choral groups showed the wide array of Filipino singing talent. The Filipino Ministry Choir of St. Columba gave a soothing rendition of Night of Silence and Simbang Gabi. The Young Adults Choir of St. Columba displayed the extent of their singing prowess with Jingle Bells Calypso and Light of a Million Mornings.

The Medical Mission of Mercy USA Choral Group brought an air of nostalgia with their medley version of Namamasko, Kami Po’y Paskuhan and Noche Buena and the Filipino Teachers Choir revealed the power of their voices with You Raise Me Up and Villacinco (Pastol, Pastol Gumising).

The nine-man SHOWPOW Continued on Page 6

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Health & Wealth

JCCAN hosts 2-Day Super Event on December 17, 18

drinking.

If you have “upside down” Art Gabot Madlaing properties (total mortgage balance is higher than the present market In response to the many value of property), you must come inquiries on the flagship Equity to the 2-Day Super Event to learn Acceleration and Cash Flow Management Program(EAMP), new more about the updated HEAVEN Debt Resolution Program, updated Program as permanent solution to owners of “upside down” Home Equity Acceleration Velocity Enrichment (HEAVEN) Program and properties with financial hardship.

If have cash flow problems, other financial programs, products you must attend the 2-Day Super and services, JCC Alliance Network Event to learn benefits of JCCAN (JCCAN) is hosting a 2-Day Super Event on December 17 & 18 (Friday associates and the senior discount & Saturday) at the Fremont Business for those 60-years or older.

If you are still undecided to Center, 42808 Christy Street, Suite attend the 2-Day Super Event, 101, Fremont, California 94538. here’s an excerpt of the latest The 2-Day Event will have testimonial of Mary & Kurt lots of presentation, training, Williams: Last year, Mary and Kurt recognition, updates and Williams were invited by friends other news plus prizes. Special to attend a JCC Alliance Network presentations for First-Time Guests (JCCAN) Financial Workshop in will be held on Friday, December Fremont, California. They learned 17, 7:00 pm; and on Saturday, at the Financial Workshop the December 18, 9am and 6pm. basic benefits of the flagship Special training will be Equity Acceleration and Cash Flow held on Friday, December 17, Management (EAMP) and the 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm; and on option Home Equity Acceleration Saturday, December 18, 9:am to Velocity Enrichment (HEAVEN) 6:30pm. Holiday Season Dinner & Program. Later on, they also found Celebration for clients, associates and guests will be held on Saturday, out about the new JCCAN Debt Resolution now available to all the December 18, from 7:30pm to 50 states. midnight.

Mary invited her 84-yearJCCAN clients, associates, directors and guests from Southern old dad, Jesse, to attend the JCCAN Financial Workshop in California, Northern California, Las Fremont, California. At first, Jesse Vegas, Nevada; Honolulu, Hawaii, was skeptical but because the Colorado Springs , Colorado; Chicago, Illinois and other states are enrollment was free, he enrolled his $14,000 credit cards debt coming the 2-Day Super Event. into the JCCAN Debt Resolution If you have been bombarded Program last July, 2010. As a result,

by TV, radio and newspaper ads his credit cards debt balance was on Debt Resolution, make sure to reduced by more than 50% and come to the 2-Day Super Event his new monthly payment was and compare the benefits of the reduced to $300 (instead of $900 JCC Debt Resolution plus EAMP Program benefits to the other Debt monthly).

Mary and Kurt Williams Resolution programs offered by enrolled their “upside down” many companies. properties into the flagship EAMP If you are concerned if the and the option HEAVEN Program. brand of the bottled water you are When they found out that the new drinking is safe and healthy, you JCCAN Debt Resolution Program must come to the 2-Day Super was available in all 50 states, they Event for PH Level testing of the also enrolled as JCCAN Business brand of bottled water you are

Associates. Mary and Kurt’s daughter also enrolled as JCCAN Business Associate. The Williams Family has now three generations of JCCAN clients and associates.

Mary and Kurt Williams are starting to receive commissions to improve their cash flow as well as EASY Points directly paid to their lenders to pay off their mortgages in half the time or faster. With the EASY Points, Mary’s 84-year-old father expects to become debt free before the end of next year.

“We are so blessed to know and learn about the amazing flagship EAMP, HEAVEN Program, the new JCCAN Debt Resolution Program as well as the other products and services,” echoed Mary and Kurt Williams.

“We are glad we attended the financial workshop and the Super Saturday Special Workshop and Training in Fremont , California .. At the workshop, we discovered the amazing solutions to our financial problems,” affirmed the couple Mary and Kurt Williams.

“The JCCAN financial programs, products and services can help everybody. I encourage everyone to attend the workshop and special training and check for yourself how your financial problems can be solved, “ said Mary Williams For reservation to the 2-Day Super Event, call (510) 550-1404, (650) 438-3531, (415) 584-7095, (408) 888-7197, (702) 580-1207, (626) 963-8711 or e-mail: info@Jccalliance.com QUOTE OF THE WEEK - BELIEF: “Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt. “ -SHAKESPEARE *** ART GABOT MADLAING is a commissioned Notary Public and DRE licensed Real Estate Broker (ID #006635976) since 1981. He is the Chief Operating Officer of JCC Alliance Network. He can be reached at (650)438-3531, (415)584-7095, (510)550-1404 Ext. 104 e-mail: agmadlaing@hotmail.com visit his website: www.jccalliance.com/art

By Monet

Lu

IT seems my hair-related articles are among the most popular, based on the reactions that I receive from my readers.

Sa dami ng mga katanungan, I apologize if I could only discuss several. I try to pick out the most common questions so that it will help more people out there having the same issues.

In this current economy, I do understand that a lot of us had to give up some things we were used to, when financial times were better. But I hope that despite the challenges, we will not neglect to take care of ourselves. This includes grooming. We have to encourage feeling good on the inside as well as looking good on the outside.

Now on to our hair/beauty discussions: Joan: I have really long hair that falls all the way down my derriere area. I want to cut it for practical reasons but my boyfriend does not approve. He really likes my hair this long. Although I want to please him, I’m concerned that I’m not able to keep my hair healthy this way. I’m seeing a lot of split ends already. I used to enjoy having really long hair but now it’s not that fun anymore.

Monet: I know you feel torn between pleasing your man and the inconvenience of maintaining a lengthy hair. You have to strike a balance between what will make him happy, but also not putting the burden on you. It is your hair after all. There’s a midway point to address this. Why not try layers? You can preserve a portion of the length while taking out the damaged area. One thing’s for sure, you need to remove the split ends. I have to assume that your hair is also a bit dry now. You need some deep conditioning treatment. My salon is offering some good deals on moisture enrichment that may benefit you.

Good luck!

Fatima: Dear Monet, because of our bad economy and partly

Before

After

because of my adventurous spirit, I’ve experimented with coloring my own hair at home. I have naturally black hair but I’ve been seeing grays here and there. So I decided to change my entire hair color to light brown hoping that this will also remove the grays. The result is not what I expected. My hair color looks gold-ish in the root area but other parts are black. I don’t know what to do. Any advice?

Monet: You are not the first to come to me with this problem.

It appears that there’s a color conflict going on there. The one thing I know, having not seen your situation first-hand, is that we need to strip the light brown color you applied on yourself.

The process is a bit technical to explain here. You need to come see us at the salon because I feel like this issue you have should be handled by a professional colorist!

Dorothy: My wedding is this coming June. I’ve had many trials for hair and make-up but I have not been happy with any of the styles so far. My mother has been the one recommending the hair and makeup artists but our styles just don’t match. None of them could provide the make-up foundation that I need because of blemishes and acne marks that I wish to hide. I’m very stressed because I feel like my mother wants to plan everything but I’m the bride. Shouldn’t I be the one to decide?

Monet: Sweetheart, we need to focus on the important issues at hand, which is your quest for the right stylist who can deliver the look you want. I’m not Dear Abby, so I don’t think it’s appropriate for me to comment about the

internal issues between you and your mother. But if you were serious about finding the best stylist, you have to push forward with that. If you were my bride, I would recommend that we meet for a personal, one-on-one consultation. I would advice you to cut up pictures of make-up and hair styles that you like from bridal magazines or from the Internet so that I can be on the same page with you. Once you have shared with me your vision, then it would be my turn to offer my professional opinion about what would be the best fit for your wedding makeoever. After all, I have been doing this for many many years. This collaboration will avoid mistakes and stress on the wedding day. It has worked very well for me over the years. As for your specific question about make-up foundation that will give you more coverage, I just happen to have the solution for you. It’s called the Monet Salon Velvet Spray Airbrush Make-up. Call me at (213) 216-4923 and let me tell you all about it! *** The author is a Marikina-born, awardwinning celebrity beauty stylist with his own chain of salons across Southern California and Las Vegas, Nevada. Ultimately, Monet is known as an all-around artiste who produces sold-out fashion and awards shows as well as unforgettable marketing campaigns. Monet is also the founder of the revolutionary all-natural beauty products available at www.skinbymonet.com. He supports many humanitarian efforts to include projects in his native Marikina, The Bantay Bata Foundation, and many more. To contact Monet, please visit www.monetsalon.com for more information.

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NVC must send notice ‘to the alien’ before terminating visa registration

Immigration Corner Atty. Michael Gurfinkel

On my show, Citizen Pinoy, I always remind people to keep their addresses current with the National Visa Center (NVC) while waiting for the priority date on their approved petition to become current. In many cases, the wait for an immigrant visa can be from 10 to 25 years! During that time, people move and thus would no longer have the same address as when the petition was originally filed.

The problem is that when the priority date finally becomes current, the NVC sends the forms and paperwork to the last address the NVC has on file. So, if you move without giving your new address to the NVC, it will be sending the forms and other paperwork to your old address. Immigration laws and regulations state that once a person is notified that their visa is available, they have one year to apply for the visa. If they fail to do so, their visa registration could be terminated, and the file destroyed, resulting in the loss of that priority date.

In fact, the regulations state that it is the alien’s responsibility to keep his or her address current with the NVC, not the NVC trying to track you down.

I know of many people who failed to apply for their visas within one year (because the NVC notices were sent to the old address), and thus their case was terminated under Section 203(g).

However, there was a recent decision by the Ninth Circuit which held that an alien’s visa registration was improperly terminated because the notice of visa availability was not sent “to the alien”.

Instead, notices were sent to the petitioner and/or the alien’s attorney.

In that case, an alien was petitioned by his brother in the F-4 category. Twelve years later, when the priority date finally became current, the NVC sent an instruction package to the attorney who had helped file the petition over a decade earlier.

The NVC sent follow up letters to that attorney in 2001, 2002 and 2003, but the attorney’s records did not indicate that he received any of those notices.

The NVC eventually terminated the alien’s visa registration and destroyed all the related records, based on the alien’s “failure to apply” for his visa within one year of notification. The alien sued to have his visa registration reinstated.

The Ninth Circuit noted that the law governing termination of visa registration states that the “Secretary of State shall terminate the registration of any alien who fails to apply for an immigrant

visa within one year following notification to the alien of the availability of such visa. . .” The court held that the statute was explicit in stating that the notification must be to the alien. Therefore, notification to the alien’s attorney or to the petitioner did not comply with the law. (Of course now, the NVC sends to the alien a form “Designation of Agent”, whereby the alien can designate his attorney to receive such paperwork. However, at the time this visa registration was terminated, that procedure was not in place.) Accordingly, the court held that because the law and regulations “unambiguously required service “to the alien”, we need not look to the State Department’s interpretation of these materials. . . Therefore, any notice sent by the State Department to [the attorney concerning the alien’s] visa eligibility cannot serve as the prerequisite for termination under INA Section 203(g). Because the government did not send notice “to the alien”, termination of [the alien’s] visa registration was contrary to law.”

If your visa registration was terminated by the NVC, but you never received notice, I would suggest that you seek the advice of an attorney who can evaluate your situation to determine if notice was properly sent and/or whether you should be entitled to have your visa registration re-instated.

Remember, the stakes are very high. In some cases, a person may have waited more than a decade for the priority date on their petition to become current.

It would be a shame that after all that waiting, the case was shredded by the NVC because you did not “apply within one year”. *** Michael J. Gurfinkel is licensed, and an active member of the State Bar of California and New York. All immigration services are provided by, or under the supervision of, an active member of the State Bar of California. Each case is different. The information contained herein (including testimonials, “Success Stories,” endorsements and reenactments) is of a general nature, and is not intended to apply to any particular case, and does not constitute a prediction, warranty, guarantee or legal advice regarding the outcome of your legal matter. No attorney-client relationship is, or shall be, established with any reader.

WEBSITE: www.gurfinkel.com Call Toll free to schedule a consultation for anywhere in the US: (866)—GURFINKEL Four offices to serve you: LOS ANGELES ∙ SAN FRANCISCO ∙ NEW YORK ∙ PHILIPPINES

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TELECAST SCHEDULE TFC

Sunday Sunday

5:45pm PST 12:10am PST

original replay

ANC US

Sunday Thursday

11am PST •7pm PST

original replay

ANC PHIL

Monday Friday

3am Phil •11am Phil

original replay

*aired within TFC regions only

CITIZEN PINOY FEATURE A STORY OF FAITH AND GREEN CARDS. Rey (left) and Maria (center) are music ministers who surrendered their fate to God as they heeded His call. But the couple encountered several crosses along the way.

Witness how miracles happened in the lives of this couple when leading US immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel (center) brings an encore presentation of your most popular immigration program on television—’Citizen Pinoy’ this Sunday at 5:45pm PST. Also—Kapamilyas in Houston and surrounding neighborhoods in Texas have the chance to get their immigration questions answered live, when leading immigration attorney Michael J. Gurfinkel brings your most popular immigration program on television- CITIZEN PINOY to Houston, Texas on December 12th, Sunday. Audience call times are at 12nn /3pm /6pm. As a public service from TFC and the Law Offices of Michael J. Gurfinkel, seats are FREE, but you need to reserve now at www.citizenpinoy. com or you may call toll free 1866-487-3465.

Willie plans to come back...

From Page 2 everybody is welcome to enjoy Willing Willie, regardless of their network preference. The host also said that doing a tour in the US would be much easier and faster now that he is the producer of his own show.

With almost everything copyrighted under his name (from equipments, to music, concept and even the dancers), Revillame disclosed that although his contract with TV5 includes a “50/50 share” of revenues, he remains solely responsible for the show, especially when he takes it abroad.

Willing Willie also boasts, not only of an extravagant set, but also of a hefty amount of prizes.

One of the show’s game called Spin the Wil—the jackpot round of Wiltime Bigtime—grants a contestant the chance to win the mega-jackpot which includes a new car, a house and lot and a million pesos, should he manage to spin three roulettes that spell out “W-I-L.” Willie is hopeful that contestants will win a house and lot when he takes the game to the US. He reveals that his business partner Senator Manny Villar has given him 12 houses to give away, assuming one house will be won each month.

Pleased to have a new

show in a new home, Willie has nothing but good words to say to the owner of TV5 Manny V. Pangilinan (MVP) for being generous and supportive to him. Willie disclosed during the interview how he and MVP will be able to take Willing Willie to foreign countries.

Willie marveled at the idea of a newfound technology introduced to him by MVP, wherein instead of the usual cable, airborne signals will be used to transmit Willing Willie in the US and Europe by January.

“So we would not be using cables anymore, everything is digital now. By digital, I mean you will have to subscribe via a code provided by the station wherein no subscription will be necessary. From what I know, you will have to buy a SIM card from them and then insert it in what looks like a Digi-box,” Willie elaborated in Tagalog.

Willie revealed that aside from plans to construct the Wil Tower Mall (with business partner Villar) and plans to establish his own station (with business partner Pangilinan), he is also eyeing to produce his own reality talent search called Born To Be A Star by January or February next year.

According to the entrepreneur, the decision as to

whether he will host the show or not is still uncertain. But the concept of the talent will be a Charice-like journey for the contestants.

In Born To Be A Star, contestants will be treated like celebrities according to him.

“Dito ang trato susunduin ka na, hindi yung magbebenta pa kayo ng kalabaw, yung mga nasa probinsya di ba? Mangungutang pa kayo, the usual na mga kwentuhan, mga storya (With the show, you would not have to sell cows [to dress like a star] like what they do in the province, or borrow money like how the usual story goes),” he said.

“Pero this time ‘pag nakapasok ka sa auditions, VIP ka na, star ka na, kaya nga Born To Be A Star’ka na. So kung matalo ka, well, it’s up to you. At least na-feel mo to be a star. (This time, once you pass the auditions, you’ll be an instant VIP, that’s why it’s called Born To Be A Star. If you lose, well, it’s up to you.

But what is important is that you felt like a star.)”

With the continuous pouring of blessings in his life, Willie said that there are not enough words to show how grateful he is for his supporters who give him strength and inspiration—the main reason why he has devoted his life to entertaining them and making them happy.

America

DECEMBER 1 0

Simbang Gabi Phil Consulate The Catholic Fellowship of Young Filipino Professionals cordially invites friends, families and followers of Simbang Gabi to join the Filipino-American young professionals of the Tri-State area and the Philippine Consulate General New York as they celebrate their annual nine-evening ‘Simbang Gabi’ masses at Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center located at 556 Fifth Avenue New York, New York. The Masses will be held from 2:30pm - 5pm and 630pm - 9pm.

DECEMBER 11

8th Annual San Francisco Parol Lantern Festival A must-see event during the holiday season, the San Francisco Annual Parol Lantern Festival and Parade begins with a series of parol lantern-making workshops held at the Bayanihan Community Center (1010 Mission St. on 6th Street), every Friday night from 5:30pm to 8pm and in other community centers. The parol-making workshop is open to the public. The parols made during these workshops are then displayed during our anticipated parade & festival held in Yerba Buena Lane, Jessie Square and St. Patrick’s Church. For more information contact Parol Festival at (415) 348-8042, email parolsf@gmail.com or visit www.bayanihancc.org.

Celebration of the Immaculate Heart of Mary (Pampanga Day Celebration) In the essence of celebrating Pampanga’s remarkable history and rich culture, a mass will be held in honor of Pampanga’s Patroness,the Virgen de los Remedios, on December 11 at 10am at the Immaculate Heart of Mary 4950 Santa Monica Blvd., LA 90032. The mass will also be the highlight of the event. Members of the Filipino-American community are invited. For inquiries and details, please call Rodel at (818) 424-8882 or Larry (323) 356-6065.

Voices of Worship All are invited to attend the Voices of Worship (VOW) dinner concert on Dec. 11 at the River of Praise Tabernacle, Bayonne, NJ from 7-9pm. Songs will be rendered by Ellen San Miguel, Kats Alvir, Samuel Sonsona, Ptr. Allan Del Mar, and Ptr. Chyril Nicose. All proceeds will go to Missions and Church fund. For more info contact Ptr. Chryil Nicose (917) 575-6282; Ptr. Allan Del Mar (551) 221-0903; and Sam Sonsona (201) 456-6082.

3rd Simbang Gabi at Mater Dolorosa Everyone is invited to attend the 3rd Annual Commissioning Mass and Parol Lighting Ceremony at the Mater Dolorosa Church, 307 Willow Ave., South San Francisco, CA 94080 on Dec. 11. Event starts at 9:30am and the Commissioning Mass at 1:30pm. For more information contact to contact Ms. Nellie Hizon at nelliehizon@yahoo.com or Estele Oloresisimo at estele_o@ yahoo.com.

Pasko sa Carson The CONFAA and the Philippine Independence Day Foundation will hold the Christmas celebration, Pasko sa Carson, on Friday, Dec. 11 at 7pm at the church hall of the St. Philomena Catholic Church on Main St. between 220th and Carson St. Admission is free. Those who will come to the holiday concert are encouraged to bring unwrapped Christmas toys for the poor children in the Philippines. For more info, call Joe at (310) 549-3111 or Fe at (310) 513-1030.

STBA Christmas Party The Sto. Tomas Batangas Association of Southern California will celebrate their Christmas Party (poltluck) at Alex & Fe Dorado’s house in Chino Hills on Saturday, December 11, 2010 from 12nn - 7pm. For directions and other information, please call Willie Manacsa (818) 3413472, Alex & Fe Dorado (909) 896-1980, Myrna Jaurigue (909) 247-4944, Ofie Villanueva (626) 383-4152, Rosie Sancianco (909)519-6626, Nemia Ventura (626)912-2642, Josie Malaiba (909) 374-3251, Dolly Hernandez (626) 735-1222, Ric Malaiba (562) 692-7363 or Jojo Espiritu at (626) 964-4560.

DECEMBER 12

UPPAGC Christmas event The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Chicago (UPAAGC) will hold its traditional Christmas event on December 12, 2010 at 700 South Barrington Rd, Streamwood, Illinois 60107. Visit upaagc.org for more details or contact Grace Avellana Villamora, President UPAAGC at (773) 973-4260 or president@upaagc.org.

Philippine Chamber Rondalla of NJ The Philippine Chamber Rondall of NJ would be holding a Celebratory concert at St. Peter’s College’s Roy Irving Theatre, 2641 Kennedy Blvd, Jersey City, NJ 07306. Please order your tickets now by contacting (908) 359-3297 or (732) 207-3284. General admission is $15 ($20 at the door). For children aged 10 and younger-$5. Feel free to call us for additional information.

United Pangasinanes of America, Inc. Annual Christmas Dance You are invited to please join us celebrate the Christmas Annual dance on December 12, 2010 (Sunday) at Grosvenor Hotel, 380 South Airport Boulevard , Burlingame, CA from 3pm to 8pm. Music will be provided by DJ Nolly Yamzon and food will be served. Donation is $35. For tickets and reservations, please call Edna M. Roxas at (650) 296-1659, Violeta Abad at (415) 3371891 or Ernie Abalos at (415) 533-8391.

UBSCI Christmas Party The United Batangueños of Southern California will hold its Annual Christmas Party at the Mayflower Restaurant - 679 N Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 on Sunday, December 12, 2010 from 6 - 11pm. Music will be provided by The Midnight Motion Band. www.midnightmotionband.com For other details, please call Eric Villafranca (323) 224-8764, Nora Jusi (213) 3246985, Romy Elepano romyelepano@yahoo.com, Willie Manacsa (818) 341-3472, Cely Anuran (805) 530-2836, Liling Emnace (213) 483-6146, Zenny Zoleta 909) 732-9589 or Rose Pascua at (323) 382-1124.

SCV Filipino Ministry Choir’s ‘A Night Of Christmas Carols’ The SCV Filipino Ministry Choir performed magnificently during the OLPH Thanksgiving Concert and commendations echoed all throughout the evening. Here’s your chance once again to experience their musical gift. Join them on Dec. 12, 2010 starting at 5pm, for an evening of Christmas Carols, and let them fill your hearts with the Holiday Spirit! So mark your calendar and don’t miss out on this glorious musical journey! Admission is Free and donation will be appreciated. For further information, please call Roy Remigio at (661) 310-4549.

DECEMBER 15

Simbang Gabi at the Cathedral The whole Filipino community is invited to attend the traditional Archdiocesan Simbang Gabi at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on Dec. 15 at 6:30pm. For any questions, you may get in touch with Ms. Cora Aragon Soriano (213) 999-1993.

DECEMBER 17

6th Annual Parol Parade and Contest All are invited to watch the 6th Annual Parol Parade on Dec. 17 at 5:30pm. The parade route will start from the Manila Terrace Social Hall 2328 W. Temple St., Los Angeles CA, 90026. It will then proceed from Temple St to Carondolet St to Council St to Park View St to Beverly Blvd To Rampart to Benton Way and will end at the Center of Hope at Temple St. For more information contact Erlinda Lim (213) 924-4048 or Leo Pandac at (213) 810-0279.

AFAA Christmas Party The Association of Filipino American Accountants (AFAA) New York chapter will hold its annual Christmas party at the Astoria World Manor, Astoria, Queens on December 17 starting at 7pm. Dinner $50 per person. For more information please contact Neva Fajardo, AFAA NY Secretary (718) 275 1422.

Filipino Film Festival Mark December 17 on your calendars for the Filipino Film Festival happening at the Portland Community College Cascade Campus (Terrel Hall 122) at 3am-6am. For inquiries and reservations email cinemalayan2010@gmail.com.

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FASO at the Monrovia Public Library Holiday and classical sounds from the Filipino-American Symphony Orchestra at the Monrovia Public Library – 321 S. Myrtle Ave. Monrovia, CA 91016. Admission is free! Violin and Guitar Duo from 2pm–3pm at the library lobby, Clarinet Quartet from 3pm–4pm and Flute Ensemble from 4pm–4:45pm at the Library Community Room. The event is sponsored by the Friends of the Monrovia Public Library.

If you have an upcoming event and would like us to post it, please email us the details at info@asianjournalinc.com or calendar@asianjournalinc.com

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Health@Heart Philip S. Chua, MD, FACS, FPCS

PIDCI looking for 2011 ‘Diwa ng Kalayaan’

Are we getting enough sleep?

Obviously, the quality of sleep, besides the number of “Most American adults sleep hours, is very important. Chris poorly,” according to a study of Drake, senior scientist at the the National Sleep Foundation on Henry Ford Sleep Center in 1506 adults which was reported Detroit and co-chair of the 2005 in Washington by the Associated poll task force, stated that some Press. The findings are obviously of the nation’s sleep habits can applicable to most of us in be attributed to an “always-ongeneral. the-go society.”

Lack of sleep translates The commercial world of to lesser mental acuity and today stretches business to concentration, poorer health, 24 hours a day, with 24-hour greater driving hazards, reduced pharmacy, restaurants, casinos, productivity, and diminished sex supermarkets, etc., so people drive. tend to stay up late, watch late Sleep experts recommend night shows on television, surfing a minimum of 7 to 9 hours of the web on the internet, etc. All sleep in 24 hours. The survey these reduce people’s time to showed that adults sleep an sleep. And some people even average of 6.9 hours a night. The need more than 9 hours of sleep few minutes to 3 hours of sleep to feel refreshed and rested. deprivation is enough to cause This study also showed (1) problems.

Sixty percent of adult stated Seventy-five percent of adults they have driven a vehicle while reported they frequently have drowsy from lack of sleep the difficulty in sleeping, like problem past year; and 4 in 10 reported in initiating sleep, waking up they have had an accident often during the night, and/or or near accident because of snoring, waking up too early, tiredness or falling asleep at the and feeling unrefreshed and wheel. (2) Seventy five percent tired. Many also stated that they claims their partner has a sleep ignored the problem, and some problem, snoring as the most do not even think they actually common complaint. (3) Four have any sleep deficit. Only about out of ten of those surveyed 50% of those surveyed stated reported lack of sleep adversely they were able to sleep well most affected their sexual relationship, of the time. Twenty five percent having lost interest in sex, thought their sleep problem had having poorer performance adverse effects on their daily or having sex less often. (4) routines.

Seventy percent claimed that Richard Gelula, the Chief their physician never asked them Executive Officer of the Sleep about their sleep.

Foundation, said there’s a link The recommendations of the between sleep and quality of life.

National Sleep Foundation and “People who sleep well, in general, experts in the field are abstinence are happier and healthier,” said from any stimulant, coffee and Gelula. “But when sleep is poor alcohol before bedtime, and to or inadequate, people feel tired seek medical help if they think or fatigued, their social and they are having sleep problem intimate relationships suffer, work and/or snoring, or not getting productivity is negatively affected, enough rest at night. and they make our roads more Lack of sleep reduces the dangerous by driving while sleepy normal “recharging time of our and less alert.” body battery, our energy source”

causing a chain of reactions in our physiology and body chemistry. This “lo-bat” condition leads to physical and mental stresses to our system. All these alter the normal homeostasis (internal balance) within us, weakening our immune system, and increasing our risk of developing metabolic diseases, hypertension (high blood pressure), stroke and heart attack, among others, or aggravating existing illnesses.

The prescription for a healthy lifestyle, for maximal maintenance of good health and disease prevention, besides regular medical checkup, includes the following ingredients: Adequate sleep, rest and relaxation, total abstinence from tobacco, strict moderation in alcohol intake (a glass or two of red wine with dinner is great), daily exercises (like brisk walking), low-fat, low-cholesterol, low-carb, high-fiber diet (vegetables, fruits, grains, nuts, etc), and, equally important, having a happy and positive attitude in life.

The main objective of this column is to educate and inspire people live a healthier lifestyle to prevent illnesses and disabilities, and achieve a happier and more productive life. Any diagnosis, recommendation or treatment in our article are general medical information and not intended to be applicable or appropriate for anyone. This column is not a substitute for your physician, who knows your condition well and who is your best ally when it comes to your health. ***

JOJI JALANDONI PIDCI President

CHRISTINE SORIANO 2010 Diwa ng Kalayaan (Spirit of Independence)

NEW YORK—The Philippine Independence Day Council, Inc. (PIDCI) announced it has launched the search for entries to the 2011 Diwa ng Kalayaan (Spirit of Independence) beauty, brains and talent contest. She will reign during the months-long, multi-event commemoration next year of the 113th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence (from Spain).

The announcement was made by Elvira Reyes, an elected member of the Board of Directors and chairperson of PIDCI’s Diwa ng Kalayaan Search, Selection and Coronation Pageant and Gala Committee. Tess Lobo, another elected member of the Board is a co-chair of the committee.

As in past years, the grand prize for the Diwa ng Kalayaan competition is a round-trip airline ticket to the Philippines. As Diwa ng Kalayaan, she will represent PIDCI and the New York area Filipino and Filipino-American community as Ambassador of Goodwill when she goes to the Philippines for her prize. Many other prizes go with the highly prestigious title.

The winner of the 2010 Diwa ng Kalayaan (Spirit of Independence) title was Christine C. Soriano,

ELVIRA REYES Chairperson Diwa ng Kalayaan Committee

TESS LOBO Co-Chairperson

a quiet, musically (plays piano, guitar and drums; sings and dances too) and sports (Varsity Captain for her school’s Soccer, Basketball and Softball teams) talented senior from Fort Lee High School who won over ten other dalagang Filipina from all over the tri-state area, with one contestant coming from as far as Boston, Massachusetts.

The winner will be judged at the Diwa ng Kalayaan (Spirit of Independence) Selection and Coronation Pageant and Gala sometime in May at a venue to be announced soon.

To register for the Diwa ng Kalayaan contest, please call committee chairperson Elvira Reyes at (551) 208-4966-2413 or (215) 366-5193 or co-chair Tess Lobo at (917) 783-8693 or PIDCI President Joji Jalandoni at (201) 401-7559 or Vice President Fe Martinez at (973) 222-0005, Secretary Ner Martinez at (347) 837-5853 or (718) 997-9233, Treasurer Sofie Abad at (347) 453-8951 or any of these Board members: Raul Estrellado at (201) 421-6187, Art Diongon at (917) 822-9225 or (718) 881-1287, Dr. Benjie Santos, Jr. at (347) 255-0826 or (718) 4146599, Rene Ballenas at (646) 831-9541 or Cathy Uy at (732) 687-2413 or (732) 605-1990.

FiRE honors LGBTQGNC Rights on National Lesbian Day

New YORK City— Last December 8, Filipinas for Rights and Empowerment (FiRE) celebrated and honored National Lesbian Day in the Philippines.

This day was established at the first National Lesbian Rights Conference on December 6-8, Dr. Chua is Cardiac Surgeon Emeritus, 1996 in Silang, Cavite. FiRE is Northwest Indiana, and is currently the committed to fighting for the Chairman of Cardiac Surgery at Cebu rights of Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Doctors’ University Hospital, Cebu City, Transgender, Queer/Questioning, Philippines. He is also Vice-President for and Gender Non Conforming Far East of the Cardiovascular Hospitals of people (LGBTQGNC), and ending America, based in Wichita, Kansas. Email: all forms of gender violence, exploitation, and oppression. As scalpelpen@gmail.com an organization of Filipinas in the United States fighting for genuine democracy and national liberation in the Philippines, FiRE would like to honor and thank local New York City and Philippines-based organizations working tirelessly for the rights and safety of the LGBTQGNC community.

In the recent months, the United States has witnessed the tragic youth suicides caused by bullying and harassment. It is vital to provide ongoing education for children, teens, adults, community workers, and the government resources to deconstruct homophobia, heterosexism, and transphobia. Communities should come to the new understanding

Viewfinder

By Nestor Torre Inquirer.net

that LGBTQGNC are entitled to live a life free from violence, as it is a human right.

Earlier this year, the Philippine—based organization, LESBOND, Lesbians for National Democracy, launched an educational campaign which focused on creating understanding and awareness around homosexuality and homophobia. The curriculum was initially meant for universities and the media, but has since been redeveloped for outreach to elementary school students. “The module describes the history, sociology and societal behavior that has sustained homophobia in the Philippines,” said LESBOND member, Julie Palaganas.

LESBOND continues to advocate for gender equality and democracy on the foundation that the place of

women, including lesbian women, is in the struggle for genuine liberation. Therefore, great reform must be made on various levels for LGBTQGNC people to acquire the freedom expression of their sexuality and identity, create homes for homeless LGBTQGNC youth, access affordable health care and medical services, have job security with partner benefits, and initiate policies for school and workplaces to be a safe place for LGBTQGNC youth and adults.

Irma Bajar, Chairperson of FiRE states, “As a queer Filipina woman who has faced homophobia and heterosexism, it’s important to unite and create an all-encompassing liberation movement. We must ensure LGBTQGNC rights and commit to dismantling homophobia, heterosexism, and transphobia.”

Why many starlets settle for ‘imitative’ stardom

ON November 29 at 5:15pm, ABS-CBN’s new teen musical-variety show, Shoutout, had its first telecast. It lived up to its title—because, boy, it sure was loud!

All of the young hosts were screaming their welcome spiels, as though the microphone had yet to be invented and they had to be heard as far away as Tagaytay on sheer lung power.

The weekday program showcases some eight starlets a day, with all of them appearing together on the Friday telecast. Expectedly, they will show off their performing abilities and build up their individual and collective fan bases along the way, with the more popular starlets ending up as stars (knock on wood).

If this sounds sort of familiar, flashback a few decades and it’s That’s Entertainment all over again. This time around, however, most of the starlets appear to have been chosen with greater care (there are fewer obvious lemons among them).

In fact, many of the “Shout-outers” are quite fetching and telegenic. Unfortunately, however, many of them look alike! We don’t know what it is about the local entertainment scene and viewers and fans’ perceived preferences, but most teen starlets are uniformly tisoy, pa-cute (to death) and straight out of the John Lloyd Cruz and Bea Alonzo mold.

Why do so many young “talents” implicitly agree to settle for “imitative” stardom? Because they don’t bother to figure out and develop what they, individually, have to give viewers as entertainers.

Few genuine stars It’s so much easier to copy than to come up with something fresh and original—and that’s why we have so few genuine stars around.

If any of the new “Shoutouters” bother to read this,

they should convince their respective handlers and mentors to help them develop not what makes them like all of the hundreds of other hopefuls out there, but what makes them different, unique, and able to stand out from the madding throng.

That’s it: What’s key isn’t coming across as the generic fave teen sensation, but as a fresh talent with something unique for viewers to be surprised and delighted by, and to fall in love with.

Sure, the many clones of Bea and John Lloyd have their own groupies and fans, but not enough to propel them to real stardom.

So, if telegenic newcomers really want to become stars instead of just being in show biz and settling for eternal “starlet-hood,” they have to take a lot of time to first figure out who they are as entertainers and what they have to offer.

Next, they should take real workshops instead of short, quickie lessons, to develop each of the performing skills they need to become successful entertainers.

Third, they have to do a lot of actual performing to gain much-needed experience and learn from their mistakes. They should welcome criticism instead of resenting it, because they can’t evaluate their performances objectively, even if they think they can.

Fourth, they need to enlist the help of all the people they know to support their bid for stardom. It really takes a village to make a star.

Finally, let’s not forget connections, image builders, financiers and all of the many other factors that help create stars. If you still think it’s worth all the effort, disappointments and heartbreaks, go for it.

And please realize that the ascent to stardom takes much, much more than the ability to shout.

Filipino Community in metro DC...

From Page 2 further enlivened the crowd with their flawless rendition of Christmas favorite Carol of the Bells and Broadway hit Seasons of Love. Elisabeth Carlton, who played Kim in the Roxy Regional Theatre’s production of Miss

Saigon, then gave a moving performance of Where are You Christmas and Pasko na Sinta Ko. To close, all the performers went back on stage to sing O Holy Night.

Paskong Pinoy is presented by the Embassy of the Philippines,

the Philippine American Foundation for Charities, the Filipino Organization of Catholic University Students and the Filipino community in the greater metro DC area. This year’s event was covered by GMA Pinoy TV and The Filipino Channel.

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