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Vol. 4. No. 5 LOS ANGELES

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Wednesday - Tuesday, October 22 - 28, 2014

US Marine witnesses deposed MANILA, October 19, 2014 (AFP) – Four witnesses gave statements to Philippine prosecutors in a case where an American Marine is a suspect in the murder of a Filipino transgender person, the US embassy said Sunday. “Last week, City Prosecutors met with four witnesses and swore them to their statements in accordance with Philippine law,” the embassy said. The embassy, in a statement, cited this as another sign of its continued cooperation in the controversial murder case. “The witnesses will be made available for the trial,” the statement said. The statement did not say who the witnesses were, but Philippine authorities had previously said they wanted to question four US marines who are believed to

have witnessed the murder. Another US Marine is being investigated over the death of Jeffrey Laude, described by local police as a transgender sex worker. Prosecutors in the northern port city of Olongapo, where Laude was found dead on October 12, had originally wanted the suspect and four witnesses to give depositions at a formal hearing on Tuesday. The embassy said the four witnesses would no longer have to appear on Tuesday as their statements had already been obtained. But it stressed that “whether the suspect will appear on Tuesday is a decision that he will make in consultation with his Philippine legal counsel, in accordance with Philippine law”. The killing has grabbed nation-

MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) – The mother of slain transgender woman Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude said she is willing to forgive the US serviceman accused of killing her child, but vowed to continue her family’s fight for justice. Julita Laude said she may forgive US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, but only if he will confess to what he did and is rightfully punished for it. “Tao rin naman ako, ‘di ako Diyos. Patatawarin ko siya, pero iba ang sitwasyon ng pagpapatawad. May hustisya tayo, doon ka,” the 51-year-old said. Julita added that despite criti-

cism, they will not give up their fight for justice for her transgender child. “’Yung pinaglalaban namin ngayon, may pupuntahan. Hirap man kami sa una at may takot din kami,” she said. She disclosed that their family feels bad about accusations that they were causing trouble in the area, which supposedly is benefiting from assistance given by US troops like Pemberton who are participating in joint military exercises in the country. “Nakakapamerwisyo lang daw kami... ‘Yung mga Amerikanong pumupunta rito nakakatulong,”

See WITNESSES, page 12

Jeffrey Laude’s mom willing Aquino: No reason to junk VFA after Laude slay to forgive slay suspect MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) – pect in the killing of 26-year-old to attend the scheduled hearing

See MOM WILLING, page 12

President Benigno Aquino III said Monday there is no need to junk the Visiting Forces Agreement between the Philippines and the United States (US) despite the alleged involvement of an American soldier in the killing of Filipina transgender Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude. “Bakit natin kailangan i-abrogate ang VFA? Name me any place that doesn’t have crime. Should the sin of one person be reflective of the entire country? I don’t think so,” Aquino said in an interview in Leyte. A US Marine, identified as Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, had been namedsus-

Laude in Olongapo City on October 11. Pemberton, currently detained aboard a US Navy ship in Subic Bay, is facing a murder complaint in connection with the incident. Meanwhile, Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago on Monday asked Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to allow two witnesses in the killing of transgender woman Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude in Olongapo City to testify before a Senate panel. In a letter to De Lima dated October 20, Santiago said she wanted “Barbie,” a friend of Laude, and a staff of Celzone Lodge, where the victim was found dead,

on Wednesday. “This is to urgently request for your permission to allow the following witnesses to testify at the hearing of the Senate foreign relations committee which I chair, scheduled for this Wednesday, 22 October 2014, starting 10 a.m,” she said. She added that “their testimonies will be absolutely essential for the Senate to carry out the mandate to conduct an inquiry in aid of legislation.” It was Barbie who identified US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton as the main suspect in the killing of Laude, See NO REASON, page 12

79% want VP Binay to face Senate probe – SWS poll

German nationals Stefan Victor Okonek (first from left) and Henrike Dielen (second from left) were released by their Abu Sayyaf captors Friday evening according to Armed Forces chief of staff Gen. Gregorio Catapang. In the photo release of the AFP, Okonek and Dielen are seen conversing with two military officials and a Philippine National Police official on the premises of the Naval Forces Western Mindanao offices. (MNS photo)

Abu Sayyaf frees 2 German hostages MANILA, Oct 18 (Mabuhay) – The two German hostages released by the Abu Sayyaf Group are now in the custody of the German embassy following their arrival in Manila early morning on Saturday. According to Major General Domingo Tutaan, spokesperson of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the plane carrying Stefan Okonek, 71, and Henrike Dielen, 55 arrived at the Villamor Airbase at 6:45 a.m. Tutaan said the German embassy is making arrangements for their return home. On Friday, Okonek and Dielen were released by the Abu Sayyaf Group at 8:50 p.m. in Patikul, Sulu. Abu Sayyaf spokesperson Abu Rami, through a phone interview with a local radio station in Zamboanga City, said ransom was paid for their release. But as to the amount of ransom paid, Abu Rami replied: “walang labis, walang kulang daw.” The two were then brought to a military camp in Busbos for a

medical check-up. They were later transported via navy vessel to Zamboanga City, and then flown to Manila. The German foreign ministry thanked the Philippine government for its “close and trusting cooperation.” “We are relieved to be able to confirm that both Germans are no longer in the hands of their kidnappers,” a spokeswoman said. “Both Germans are now in the care of staff of the embassy in Manila.” “With the release from captivity of the two German nationals, our security forces will continue efforts to stem the tide of criminality perpetrated by bandit elements,” Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Sonny Coloma said in a statement. The hostages, captured by militants of the Abu Sayyaf group in April from a yacht on the high seas, were held in the interior of the remote island of Jolo, 600 miles (960 km) south of Manila. (MNS)

MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) – Nearly four out of five Filipinos want Vice President Jejomar Binay to appear before a Senate subcommittee that is investigating corruption allegations against him, a survey by pollster Social Weather Stations (SWS) concluded. The SWS poll was taken from September 26 to 29, with 1,200 respondents, and asked, “Do you agree or disagree with the proposal of some senators that Vice President Jejomar Binay should See 79% WANT, page 12

Pacquiao scoreless in PBA debut, but his team won MANILA, October 19, 2014 (AFP) – World boxing champion Manny Pacquiao launched his pro basketball career in the Philippines on Sunday in a scoreless debut spent mostly as a cheerleader. The ring legend, the oldest and shortest player on the floor, had two turnovers and a foul as starting shooting guard for the Kia team, failing to get off a shot in his first Philippine Basketball Association game. “It doesn’t matter. What is important is the team won,” said the 35-year-old basketball rookie, who has won world boxing titles in eight different weight divisions. The 1.69-metre (5 foot 7inch) Pacquiao, the team’s playercoach, named himself a starter against a team called Blackwater, to the delight of a roaring crowd See PACQUIAO, page 12

Undefeated Jamaican Nicholas Walters delivers a searing blow to Filipino star Nonito Donaire on his way to knocking out the Filipino champion with one second remaining in the sixth round Saturday to win the World Boxing Association featherweight title. Photo: Chris Farina/Top Rank

Unbeaten Walters KOs Donaire for title LOS ANGELES, October 19, 2014 (AFP) – Undefeated Jamaican Nicholas Walters knocked out Filipino star Nonito Donaire with one second remaining in the sixth round Saturday to win the World Boxing Association featherweight title. Walters landed a powerful overhand right to the left temple that sent the champion crumpling to the canvas and referee Raul Caiz counted out Donaire at 2:59 of the sixth round. “I invited him in and then I caught him with that powerful shot,” Walters said. “It was tough work. He’s a super world champion. He caught me (with) a few shots early.” Donaire, who had never been knocked down in his career, was sent to the canvas for the first time in the third round before being sent down for good. “He knocked the (hell) out

of me,” Donaire said. “I was at my best. I never trained this hard. He came out as tough as I thought he would be.” Walters, three years younger than Donaire at 28, improved to 25-0 with his 21st career stoppage inside the distance in his first world title bout. Donaire, who fell to 33-3, said he needed to re-evaluate his career plans, potentially looking to a lower weight class, after being unable to cope with the superior size of Walters, who also opened a cut over the champion’s right eye. “I’ve got to go back to the drawing board,” Donaire said. “I just can’t compete with guys like Walters. He was overwhelming. I couldn’t match his size and his power.” Donaire had won titles at 112, 118 and 122 pounds and was deSee KO DONAIRE, page 12

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Wednesday - Tuesday, October 22 - 28, 2014

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‘ASAP Live in LA’ brings Filipinos together to celebrate TFC’s 20th year of service By Nerissa M. Fernandez, ABS-CBN Global Head, Corporate Affairs & PR

LOS ANGELES, CA, October 15, 2014 – When asked to describe in one word what ASAP Live in LA would be at the packed press conference that was livestreamed on TFC.tv and TFC20.com/ ASAP last October 8 from the Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena, the following cast members said: Gerald Anderson: “Awesome!” Maja Salvador: “Spectacular!” Yeng Constantino: “Astig!” (Super cool!) Bamboo: “Class Act.” Zsa Zsa Padilla: “Powerful.” Martin Niev ra: “U forgettable.” Enchong Dee: “Memorable.” Kathryn Bernardo: “Fun!” Daniel Padilla: “Intense!” Gary Valenciano: “I wanted to add on to what everyone said and it has to do with why ASAP is where it is today. You have a bunch of artists here and there are many more artists out there. But there is a reason why we are chosen to

World-class Filipino and Fil-Am talents collaborate to deliver epic show before 12,000 fans at historic LA Memorial Sports Arena. Photo collage by Andy Z. Edralin, Andy Tecson, Bobby Crisostomo, Lauro Tecson Jr, Mar Arcena, Marc Pijuan, Ricky Resurreccion, and Sthanlee Mirador.

be part of this show. I think that God has a great plan for why we are a part of this show. So, the word I’m going to choose

is ‘blessed’.” Indeed, the words of TFC’s 20th Anniversary Ambassador Valenciano and his nine press con copanelists were veritable harbingers of what ASAP Live in LA last October 11 turned out to be. Not the power-packed joint concert of superstars Enrique Iglesias and Pitbull in Staples Center, or the multi-cultural, multiact Super Sonico Festival brought by the teams of LAMC and Coachella to Shrine Auditorium, or the touring and local culinary stars of James Beard Foundation’s Taste Los Angeles in Vibiana could distract 12,000 Filipino fans from trooping to historic Los Angeles Memorial Sports Arena to take part in the daylong festivities climaxed by a one-of-a-kind threehour, live, world-class Filipino entertainment. Filipino and Fil-Am performers join hands When ABS-CBN and TFC North America promised 40 stars would perform at ASAP Live in LA, they actually meant at least 40. Believing in always putting great value for the money that TFC subscribers and fans pay, ticket buyers did not only get a star-studded complement of talented cast members from the Philippines; they were treated to spectacular on-stage collabor tions with U.S.-based Filipino singing greats like Jam Morales, Ella Mae Saison and Tootsie Guevarra, and international Fil-Am superstars like apl.de.ap of Black Eyed Peas and Jessica Sanchez of American Idol fame. Also acknowledged at the show were well-known Fil-Ams from the Hollywood industry like Tia Carrere, Reggie Lee, Mark Nicolas and Fritz Friedman. Carrere told Balitang America: “ASAP was amazing. What a monster concert! I mean, Apl being here, Charice, Jessica Sanchez, and all these stars from the Philippines, I’m so happy to be able to be introduced to them. It’s three hours of non-stop energy here. I can’t wait to see it on TV.” More than just entertainment While ASAP director Johnny Manahan, ASAP Business Unit Head Joyce Liquicia and their Manila team in collaboration with TFC North America production team led by John-D Lazatin made sure that everything from the production numbers to the costumes to the technical set-up lived up to high standards, everyone in the cast and crew knew that they were here to deliver more than just entertainment. “You are talking about people flying in from as far as Alaska, Hawaii and Canada and fans representing by creating their own ASAP Live in LA attires. You have people who saved their dollars and planned their work vacations so they can watch the show. We all know that what we should give are more than song-and-dance numbers; we are here to give our hearts, our love, our Kapamilya spirit and Pinoy soul to them.

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Kerry in SE Asia seeking support against IS JAKARTA, October 20, 2014 (AFP) – US Secretary of State John Kerry on Monday visited Indonesia, home to the world’s biggest Muslim population, to press Southeast Asian nations to step up efforts in the fight against the Islamic State (IS) group. Kerry was among foreign dignitaries in Jakarta for the inauguration of President Joko Widodo, a former furniture exporter who is the first leader of the world’s third-biggest democracy to come from outside the country’s political and military elites. On the sidelines of the event, the top US diplomat was using a series of bilateral meetings to urge Widodo, known by his nickname Jokowi, and other Southeast Asian leaders to take more action against the growing threat from IS militants, officials said. IS’s jihadist appeal is fanning fears that it could serve as a potent rallying cry for extremists in the region, who had been largely brought to heel following a run of deadly attacks. A senior State Department of-

ficial said discussions on combating the IS group were “at the top of the list” for the meetings. During talks with Najib Razak, the prime minister of Muslim-majority Malaysia, Kerry thanked the leader for “Malaysia’s strong public comments” condemning the IS organisation and support for a United Nations resolution aimed at tackling the threat of radicals who join the extremist group, said another senior US official. “They also discussed the need for the international community to continue to do more to crack down on foreign fighters,” said the official. As well as Widodo, Kerry was meeting Singaporean Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, the sultan of Brunei Hassanal Bolkiah and Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario on Monday. Growing alarm There is particular concern about the influence of the IS group in Indonesia, which has a population of some 250 million Muslims and a history of Islamic militancy, and in neighbouring Malaysia.

Secretary of State John Kerry bids farewell to Indonesian President Joko Windodo and his wife, Iriana, after representing President Obama at his inauguration ceremonies in Jakarta, Indonesia, on October 20, 2014. - State Dept Image

Authorities in those countries have watched with alarm as scores, possibly even hundreds, of their nationals have gone to Syria and Iraq to join the fight for a hardline Muslim caliphate. Malaysian police have arrested a total of three dozen people this year for suspected IS-related activities. Jakarta has sought to ban support for IS ideology while police believe up to five Indonesians— including two suicide bombers— have died fighting with radical groups in the Middle East this year.

Indonesia launched a crackdown on extremists more than a decade ago after a series of attacks on Western targets, and managed to weaken major militant networks. In the Philippines, the Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group that recently pledged allegiance to IS militants last week released a German couple after a harrowing six-month hostage ordeal. The extremists had threatened to behead one of the hostages unless Berlin pay them a $5.6-million ransom and withdraw its support for US offen-

sives against IS jihadists in Syria and Iraq. During his meetings Kerry will press Southeast Asian countries on areas “where we believe and hope that the individual countries can do more”, a State Department official said. Territorial disputes in the South China Sea, climate change and the Ebola virus will also be on the agenda during the meetings, officials said. Following his visit to Indonesia, Kerry will head to Germany to attend events marking the 25th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall.

Aquino orders relentless offensive vs. Abu Sayyaf MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III wants a relentless hunt against the Abu Sayyaf Group members after the bandits released two German captives last week. In an interview in Leyte, Aquino described the ASG as a problem that already affected the country’s relationship with other countries. “Wala silang [Abu Sayyaf] humpay at palagay ko naman dapat rin tapatan ng estado na walang humpay ‘yung pagtutugis sa kanila,” the President told reporters. He added that he had already instructed the police and the military to make sure there would be no let-up in the operations against the ASG. “Wala ng safe area. Talagang kailangan walang tigil ang paghahabol sa kanila,” Aquino said. The ASG on Friday released two German hostages, Stefan Victor Okonek and Herike Diesan, who were abducted by bandits in waters between Palawan and Sabah in April. The bandits claimed that ransom was paid for the release of the captives. Aquino said no money came from his office to secure the freedom of the German captives. “Nothing came from the Office of the President. I can assure you that. I didn’t authorize anything from the Office of the President,” he said.

The ASG, which has been blamed for several past kidnapping and bombing incidents in southern Philippines, is also supposedly getting logistical support from the global militant Islamist group al-Qaeda, according to local authorities. The bandit group had also reportedly pledged allegiance to the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), a jihadist militant group being accused of atrocities on Iraqi and Syrian territories. MANILA, Oct 18 (Mabuhay) – After the release on Friday night of two German hostages held by the Abu Sayyaf, the government on Saturday vowed to continue operations against the group. In Malacañang, Presidential Communications Operations Office head Herminio Coloma Jr. said, “With the release from captivity of the two Germans, our security forces will continue efforts to stem the tide of criminality perpetrated by bandit elements.” “...Ipagpapatuloy ng mga puwersang pang-seguridad ang pagtugis at pagsabat sa mga grupong bandido,” he added. He also said the Philippine government will maintain its “no ransom” policy in dealing with kidnapping. Still, he declined to give further details about the Germans’ release, saying, “Inaalam pa ang mga detalye ng pagligtas sa kanila. Walang pagbabago sa patakarang

Germany thanks PHL for release of hostages MANILA, Oct 18 (Mabuhay) – Germany on Saturday thanked the Philippine government for Friday night’s release of two Germans abducted and held by the Abu Sayyaf since April. In posts on its Twitter account, the German foreign ministry said it was “relieved” to confirm the release of the two Germans. “We are grateful to the Government of the Philippines for close and trustful cooperation,” it said. The foreign ministry also mentioned the Twitter handles of President Benigno Aquino III (@noynoyaquino) and the Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs (@ dfaspokesperson). On Friday night, the Abu Sayyaf re-

leased German nationals Stefan Victor Okonek and Henrike Diesen. The two were abducted last April while on a yacht in the waters between Palawan and Malaysia. While the Abu Sayyaf initially gave a 3 p.m. deadline for a P250-million ransom to be paid, it extended it to 5 p.m. Also, the Abu Sayyaf demanded the military withdraw from Sulu and that the German government withdraw its support for a US-led campaign against the militant Islamic State. “We are relieved to confirm that the two Germans are no longer in their kidnapper’s hands. Both now in care of our Manila Embassy,” the German foreign ministry said.

Angry AFP chief orders sacked hospital officials to report to him MANILA, Oct 21 (Mabuhay) – Angered by a report that the sacked commander of the AFP Medical Center was still reporting for duty and another one was even designated to a new position, Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. ordered them to report to him at his office at the General Headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo. “They’re already relieved from their positions and yet they continue to report for work to their former positions. The Chief of Staff, Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr., has ordered them all to report GHQ as soon as possible,” Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc, chief of the Public Affairs Office (PAO) of the AFP, said Tuesday. On Monday, a document showed that one of the four hospital officials sacked for alleged corruption in the purchase of P80 million worth of medical supplies without public bidding was designated to a new position. In the document, a copy of which was obtained by Interaksyon. com, showed the designation of Lt. Col. Florencio Ritchie I. Capulong III as Head Secretariat of the AFPMC’s Technical Working Group. His designation was seen as a serious blow to reforms being advocated by Catapang, who had earlier said he relieved the officials involved so they will not influence the ongoing investigation. Capulong was sacked from his position as Special Disbursing Officer (SDO) because of a complaint filed by a Renato Villafuerte before the Office of the Ombudsman urging Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales to investigate corruption at the AFPMC. Also sacked by Catapang was former AFPMC commander Brig. Gen. Normando T. Sta. Ana Jr.; Col. Rogelio S. Del Rio, former Acting Chief of Staff for Logistics, MC4; and Maj. Neil D. Bugarin, former Management and Fiscal Office chief.

‘no ransom’ ng pamahalaan.” For his part, Armed Forces of the Philippines spokesman Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc said “There will be no let up in the ongoing law enforcement operations against the Abu Sayyaf bandits in Sulu.” On Friday night, the AFP confirmed the release of the two hostages – Stefan Victor Okonek and Henrike Diesen – who were found at a checkpoint in Patikul, Sulu. AFP chief General Gregorio Catapang Jr. confirmed that the captives were released at around 8:50 p.m. “As of 9:20 p.m. [Friday], they were undergoing medical checkup. They will pro-

ceed to Zamboanga City and will be given additional medical attention,” Major General Domingo Tutaan Jr., AFP spokesman, said. He said the two will be flown to Manila from Zamboanga City. Earlier on Saturday, Tutaan said the two German nationals arrived at Villamor Air Base at 6:45 a.m. Tutaan added the German Embassy “have made arrangements for this and have taken custody over them.” The two Germans were abducted last April while on a yacht in the waters between Palawan and Malaysia. (MNS)

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US ties above transgender murder: Aquino MANILA, October 20, 2014 (AFP) – Philippine President Benigno Aquino said Monday the murder of a Filipino transgender person allegedly by a US Marine should not sour ties with the United States. Aquino said there were no grounds to void a bilateral agreement that allows the US military to conduct regular training exercises involving thousands of troops on Philippine territory. “Name me any place that doesn’t have any crime. And the sin of one person should be reflective of the entire country? I don’t think so,” he told reporters at a ceremony to mark a World War II victory by the allies. Aquino said both governments were making sure the Visiting Forces Agreement that governs American military behavior in the Philippines was being followed in the criminal proceedings. Philippine prosecutors have summoned Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton to appear before a preliminary murder hearing in the northern port city of Olongapo on Tuesday. Police said Pemberton was the last person seen with the victim, Jeffrey Laude, before he was found dead in a hotel bathroom on October 12 with his head in the toilet and marks of strangulation on his neck. The murder placed defense ties between the two countries under scrutiny. It recalled a 2005 rape case involving a Filipina and a US Marine, who like Pemberton was in the country for joint military exercises. But in a ceremony marking the 70th anniversary of US General Douglas MacArthur’s return that paved the way for the Philippines’ liberation from Japan, Aquino reaffirmed the alliance with the United States. The US landing in Leyte Gulf set the stage for one of the largest naval battles of World War II and made a hero out of MacArthur for fulfilling his “I shall return” promise. “Let us renew our commitment to the strong and enduring friendships between the Philippines and its wartime allies,” Aquino said. Without directly mentioning the murder case, US ambassador Philip Goldberg said the two countries could surpass “challenges and uncertainties”. “Just as in the case 70 years ago we will prevail,” he said. Under the bilateral agreement, the United States has primary custody over its personnel accused before Philippine courts. But the Philippines has criminal jurisdiction. Philippine Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said prosecutors would “insist” on Pemberton’s appearance on Tuesday. “We are doing this so that the family of the victims will not say that we are giving him (Pemberton) special treatment and so that their critics wouldn’t say that this administration, especially on the part of the Department of Justice, has a soft stance on this case,” she said. Pemberton had not informed prosecutors if he would attend Tuesday’s hearing, Olongapo city assistant prosecutor Ria Nina Sususco told AFP. Four other Marines earlier gave statements to Philippine prosecutors as witnesses. They will not attend the hearing on Tuesday, according to the US embassy.

Mexico children increasingly recruited, abducted, killed MEXICO CITY, October 21, 2014 (AFP) – The number of Mexican children abducted, recruited by organized crime, mutilated and murdered has surged alarmingly, the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights said Monday. The grim report from the OAS-affiliated rights body comes as Mexican authorities are scrambling amid a massive scandal over 43 college students missing and feared dead. The group’s investigator Rosa Maria Ortiz visited the country earlier this month and “received information indicating that there has been an alarming increase in the figures of (missing) children who have not been found. “The (Mexican government), meanwhile, has not given data,” she stressed. Several organizations report that at least 2,000 children were slaughtered between 2006-2014, often with “extreme forms of violence,” she said. There have also been a huge number of minors being forcibly recruited to work for organized crime, especially in poorer areas. Of Mexico’s 118 million people, seven million still live in extreme poverty, many of them in Guerrero state and neighboring Oaxaca and Chiapas states. These areas, as well as several in Mexico’s north, have seen years of bloodletting between rival drug cartels warring over turf and shipping routes. Ortiz also urged President Enrique Pena Nieto’s government “to investigate with greater urgency the case of the 43 students – swiftly and impartially.” Mexican authorities had stepped up their efforts to find the students, who disappeared more than three weeks ago, using dogs, horses and divers to broaden the search. About 50 vehicles, carrying some 200 members of a special division of the federal police, arrived Sunday in Xonacatla, which is located close to the town of Iguala in Guerrero state, where the students disappeared on September 26. Authorities said the search had been expanded to include bodies of water such as lakes and ponds, as well as in the numerous mines and caves of the mountains around Iguala. More than 1,200 security forces are now looking for the college students around Iguala, a town of 140,000 inhabitants. Authorities say Iguala’s police force shot at buses carrying the students on September 26 and handed them over to officers in the neighboring town of Cocula, who then delivered them to the Guerreros Unidos drug gang.

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Aquino to PHL’s wartime allies: Honor peace, never again to war MANILA, Oct 20 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Monday rallied the Philippines’ wartime allies behind peaceful resolution to modern-day conflicts between countries. During the 70th anniversary commemoration of the Leyte Landing, Aquino encouraged envoys from the US, Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand and Japan to continue their “genuine and meaningful solidarity’ with the Philippines. “Let us honor the peace that has reigned over our nation for 70 years. Let us renew our commitment to strong and enduring friendships between the Philippines and its wartime allies, and perhaps with the countries that once we opposed,” Aquino said in a speech. The President made this statement amid the Philippines’ ongoing territorial conflict with China over parts of the South China Sea, which Manila calls the

West Philippine Sea. “We commit to peace as the true legacy of a conflict that should never be repeated, and look to a shared future bound by the trust we now extend towards each nation and nourished by the freedom we so cherish,” he added. Also in his speech, Aquino once again thanked the international community for helping the Philippines in its recovery efforts after Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which hit parts of Visayas almost a year ago. He said aid for Filipinos that poured from all over the world in Yolanda’s aftermath showed the international community’s “commitment to help each other.” “Typhoon Haiyan saw countries who once belonged to the Allied and Axis Forces who once fought a great war, united in their desire to help the Filipino people,” the President said. (MNS)

PH-US alliance going stronger 70 years AFTER Gen. MacArthur fulfills vow to return

NORFOLK, Virginia – Seventy-years after General Douglas MacArthur waded ashore in Leyte to fulfill his promise to the Filipino people, the alliance between the Philippines and the United States continues to go stronger, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. said. “The commitment shown by the United States through the actions of General MacArthur in 1944 still remains up to the present,” Ambassador Cuisia said during ceremonies commemorating the 70th anniversary of the American landings in Leyte at the MacArthur Memorial here this evening. “The shared Filipino-American experience in the Philippines during the Second World War continues to permeate Philippine-US bilateral relations and to nurture the alliance,” Ambassador Cuisia told Filipinos and Americans who attended the commemoration of the landings that signaled the start of the liberation of the Philippines after three years of Japanese occupation. Ambassador Cuisia said American commitment to the Philippines was concretely manifested during the return of US forces to Leyte in November last year, 69 years after the return of General MacArthur. “This time, however, they came to help liberate the people of Leyte from an emerging humanitarian crisis caused by one of the most devastating storms in human history—Typhoon Haiyan.” Ambassador Cuisia said US troops were among the first on the ground and helped clear the way for the massive US-led international relief effort that preempted what could have been a major humanitarian disaster. It could be recalled that at the height of the international response, the US committed more than a thousand troops and 50 aircraft and ships, including the USS George Washington, as part of Operation Damayan. US forces assisted in search and rescue operations and provided close to 2,500 tons of relief supplies to affected communities and evacuated over 21,000 people. Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippine-US alliance was further strengthened in April with the signing of the Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (EDCA). “The EDCA is intended to support the development of a minimum credible defense posture for the

Philippines through capability building and combined activities and high impact-high value joint exercises focusing on maritime domain awareness, maritime security, humanitarian assistance and disaster response,” he said. “Today, we pay tribute to the great American patriot General Douglas MacArthur who is still remembered by many not just as the liberator of the Philippines but also as a true friend of the Filipino people,” Ambassador Cuisia said in his remarks. The envoy also paid tribute to Filipino veterans who served under General MacArthur, including Maj. Jess Baltazar, 94, and Ray Cabacar, 87, who attended the commemoration. He also expressed his appreciation to the US-Philippines Society, the MacArthur Memorial and the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Foundation. Christopher Kolakowski, Director of the MacArthur Memorial, said the liberation of the Philippines actually commenced on 17 October 1944 when elements of the 6th Ranger Battalion landed in Suluan, Dinagat and Homonhon islands. He said the three-day operation that resulted in the capture of the three islands paved the way for the safe passage to the Leyte Gulf of the largest invasion armada ever assembled in the Pacific – a force made up of 574 ships and 174,000 men. Kolakowski said that on 20 October 1944, three days after the Rangers became the first US troops to land on Philippine soil, more than 100,000 troops from the X and XXIV Corps hit an 18-mile beachhead between the barrios of Dulag and San Jose in Leyte in what has been referred to as A-Day, the Pacific version of D-Day in the European theater. MacArthur Memorial historian James Zobel said the subsequent Japanese attempt to push back the US landings triggered the Battle of Leyte Gulf – the largest and bloodiest sea battle in history that broke forever Japanese sea power and ensured the success of the liberation of the Philippines. Zobel said the battle’s climax off Samar ranks as a sublime moment in the history of the US Navy, while at Cape Engano the American Navy sank the last of the carriers that executed the Pearl Harbor attack in 1941. He said the engagement in the Surigao Strait also marked the end of an era: the last battleship-versus-battleship action in history.

DREAMers grateful for present, uncertain about future By Edgardo Cervano-Soto, Richmond Pulse

RICHMOND, Calif., Oct 19, 2014 – Manuel Martinez thought his future would follow the life of his father. When he was 17, he thought he’d work in construction after high school. Despite living in Richmond, Calif. since the age of one, Martinez didn’t think he had many options because of his undocumented status. Farther north, in Modesto, Yaquelin Valencia, a Kennedy High School graduate, spent a lot of her time driving around the Central Valley. She was 20 years old and passionate about organizing immigrant communities. She was also undocumented, and ineligible for a driver’s license. On June 15, 2012, President Obama announced an executive order that would alter the course of the two youngsters’ lives, along with the lives of hundreds of thousands in similar situations. The order granted young immigrants who met specific criteria the chance to apply for what is essentially a temporary reprieve from deportation, or the threat of it. The administrative policy had an innocuous name, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals. Those eligible for DACA were also given a work permit and a social security number. Valencia and Martinez applied for DACA within months of its announcement and both were granted DACA status. “January 22, 2013, I got a letter in the mail,” Martinez recalled. “My mom cried. She told me how proud she was that I was now an ‘American;’ that I finally belonged in the country.” With a year and a half remaining of high school, Martinez kicked into high gear, re-committing himself to his studies and reconsidering the possibility of what life could be like after graduation. The last two-plus years since DACA went into effect have impacted the lives of eligible undocumented people, making opportunities such as employment and higher education accessible to many for the first time. DACA generated national interest when it was announced. It was celebrated as an accomplishment for DREAMers and their supporters, those who advocated for immigration reform for the young undocumented community in the United States. Obama and Democrats throughout the country, who’d earlier been polling low with Latinos, also enjoyed benefits from the DACA announcement. Obama was re-elected to the presidency a few months later, due in part to a reinvigorated Latino electorate – 71 percent of Latinos voted for him that year.

Immigration rights organizations sprung into gear, helping potential applicants throughout the country apply. According to the American Immigration Council, a non-partisan and independent think tank, approximately 670,000 people have applied for DACA, with nearly 550,000 of those applicants approved. In Richmond, Heather Wolf, an attorney at Catholic Charities of the East Bay – the only low cost immigration legal service provider in the area – said her office has processed 300 applications and pre-screened over a thousand at workshops. She said the Richmond numbers were substantial. Despite the boom in applications, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services estimates that of the 1.2 million people eligible for DACA, half a million of them have yet to apply. A processing fee of $465, and a requirement that all application information be forwarded to USCIS may explain why some are reluctant to apply. Valencia, who assisted Catholic Charities of the East Bay with the pre-screening process, and is a long time immigration rights advocate, used to be among them. “My understanding of it was that we were going to get a temporary work permit for two years,” she said. “Well, what’s going to happen after two years? What’s going to happen if it gets revoked?” Those questions persist, but the effect of DACA on the lives of those who’ve received it is undeniable. “I haven’t had anyone come through, who didn’t go out and immediately get a job or enroll full time in school, or is saving money to go to a four-year college,” Wolf said. “They have all been very productive and inspiring.” As for Valencia, DACA allowed her to obtain a driver’s license and enroll full time in school. “I think my mom had a sense of relief that I would be driving around now safely,” Valencia said. Today she drives herself to school and gives colleagues rides to community meetings. After being elected to serve on the board of the Contra Costa Interfaith Supporting Community Organization, CCISCO, an organization she’d previously volunteered at, Valencia said she drives to Antioch for board meetings with a new sense of security and confidence. “I feel much safer having a driver’s license,” she said, adding, “When I see an officer I still get a little nervous when they are behind me and I know they are checking my tags, but I know that because I have insurance and a driver’s license….I should be okay if they were to stop me. After receiving DACA, Martinez completely changed the course of his educational career.

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UTREACH Today News: Lakers hold practice @ Pechanga Recreation Center

Mural creator Eliseo Art Silva talks about his artwork, which depicts Filipino and FilAm history and culture. Photo: Gerald Gubatan

Signage for largest Fil-Am mural in US unveiled By Nimfa U. Rueda

LOS ANGELES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Los Angeles City officials and Filipino-American community leaders unveiled the signage for the largest Fil-Am mural in the United States on Saturday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I see this new sign as a bridge, in the same way that the mural has become a bridge to other cultures,â&#x20AC;? said Eliseo Art Silva, the Fil-Am artist who created the mural depicting Filipino-American history and culture. The mural, called â&#x20AC;&#x153;Gintong Kasaysayan, Gintong Pamanaâ&#x20AC;? (A Glorious History, A Golden Legacy) is located at the Unidad Park in Historic Filipinotown near downtown Los Angeles. The signage contains information about the park and the mural, which was created in 1995 to commemorate the Centennial of the Philippine Revolution against Spain and depict heroes and important figures in Filipino and Fil-Am history. Silva recently completed restoring the 25-foot high, 150-foot long mural, which taggers had vandalized. Among the heroes depicted in the mural were Jose Rizal, Cory Aquino, Philip Vera

Cruz and Larry Itliong. The mural has been awarded the Design Excellence for Public Art by the City of Los Angeles Board of Cultural Affairs Commissioners and featured in the Smithsonian Institutionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s travelling exhibition celebrating 100 years of Filipino migration to the US. Unidad Park used to be a community garden sponsored by the Fil-Am grassroots group Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA). The lot was donated by Fil-Am doctor Carmencita Chuateco. The city bought the lot from Chuateco and converted it into a park through the Los Angeles Neighborhood Land Trust (LANLT). LANLT hosted the unveiling ceremony, which also included a multicultural celebration showcasing Filipino and Latino folk dance and music. The guests included Councilmember Mitch Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Farrell, Ryan Carpio, manager of the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Neighborhood Services, and Joel Jacinto, SIPA executive director. Jacinto led an Ifugao dance to close the celebration.

Fil-Am one of two CA realtors honored for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;changing clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives for better LOS ANGELES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; A multi-awarded FilipinoAmerican realtor added another feather on her cap when she was chosen by the California Association of Realtors (CAR) as one of only two realtors for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Champions of Homeâ&#x20AC;? Award for â&#x20AC;&#x153;changing their clientsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lives for the better, raising the standards for others, and led by example.â&#x20AC;? The award was presented to Filipino-American realtor Reeza Gerrealtor awardee Reeza Gervacio of vacio of Cerritos-based Fil-Am Cerritos-based Century 21 Astro during the Century 21 Astro dur- California Realtor Expo 2014 on Oct. 8 at the ing the California Real- Anaheim Convention Center. tor Expo 2014 on Oct. 8 at the munity in which she works. Anaheim Convention Center. She donates her time to local The other awardee was Lois school career days to talk with Gerace of Woodland Hills- young children about the probased RE/MAX Olson and As- fession she loves. In addition sociates. to her sales duties, Reeza also California has over 170,000 helps train agents in her office realtors and only two were in farming, client communicachosen this year to receive the tions, sphere of influence, and prestigious award, which is how to expand visibility.â&#x20AC;? now on its second year. CAR also said giving back Í&#x2020;7KHVH WZR 5($/7256p UH to those less fortunate also is SHDWHGO\ KDYH JRQH DERYH DQG important to Gervacio. Every EH\RQG LQ VHUYLFH WR WKHLU year, Gervacio visits the Holy FOLHQWV DQG KDYH VKRZQ FDUH Trinity Home for Children, DQG FRPSDVVLRQ LQ PDNLQJ VXUH an orphanage in Quezon City, WKHLU FOLHQWVÍ&#x192; GUHDPV RI and spends time with them, RZQLQJ D KRPH EHFDPH D UHDO hosting lunch and giving gifts LW\ Í&#x2021; &$5 VDLG LQ D SUHVV and food items to the children. VWDWHPHQW Carol Rayburn, Gervacioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Í&#x2020;Reeza Gervacio and Lois broker at Century 21 Astro Gerace are exemplary REAL- said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;We need shining lights TORSÂŽ who push themselves like Reeza for whom itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not and consistently set higher just about the money, but standards by showing extreme about the people she serves.â&#x20AC;? diligence and persistence in In their nomination letter to serving their clients,â&#x20AC;? said the Awards Committee, RayCAR President Kevin Brown. burn and Lou Rosenkranz, coâ&#x20AC;&#x153;They rise above the rest and owner and broker of Century set an example to others for 21 Astro, cited Gervacioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s nutheir dedication and passion, merous accomplishments. and Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m proud to recognize Í&#x2020;$V RZQHUV DQG EURNHUV them as our 2014 Champions RI &HQWXU\ Astro, we have of Home.â&#x20AC;? seen how Reeza evolved from a CAR said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;A 16-year real- neophyte real estate agent into tor, Gervacio also cares about one of the top agents of the her profession and the com- Century 21 system,â&#x20AC;? they said.

LOS ANGELES â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (Oct. 16, 2013) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gearing up for the first game of their regular season on Tuesday, Oct. 28, the Los Angeles Lakers made a preseason practice stop at the Pechanga Recreation Center on thePechanga Indian Reservation in Temecula, Calif. On Thursday, October 16 from 11 a.m. to 12:30, players and coaches participated in a shoot around at the Tribeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recreation center with tribal youth and members following the action as spectators. The Los Angeles Lakers have been traveling to many points across Southern California for exhibition games during the threeweek preseason, and the shoot around in Temecula was a chance for the team to show gratitude for inland Southern California fansâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; loyalty. The Lakersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; practice in Temecula was not open to the public, though members of the media were invited to interview

coaches and players following the shoot around. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We deeply appreciate our partnership with the Lakers and their commitment to the broader Southern California community,â&#x20AC;? said Tribal Chairman Mark Macarro. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our youth were ecstatic. Today, they witnessed a focused, structured practice with high intensity, and what it takes to be a champion.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s great to see the support we have all over Southern California, not just in Los Angeles,â&#x20AC;? said Lakers Head Coach, Byron Scott. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The guys [players] love it and motivates them to even better.â&#x20AC;? Pechanga has been a longtime donor to the Lakers Youth Foundation and sponsor of the Los Angeles Lakers. The team held a similar practice at Pechanga in 2010 at the newly-built recreation center. The team was impressed with Pechan-

The real treat should be a safe Halloween Calif., Oct. 20, 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The ghoulish decorations and costumes are a sure bet to scare up some fun this Halloween season, but much more frightening are the electrical and fire hazards associated with them. With this in mind, Southern California Edison (SCE) reminds its customers that a few simple precautions, especially with candles, decorations and costumes, can help ensure a safe Halloween. One of the best ways to start is by never using burning candles to light jack-o-lanterns or as part of any decorations because of their severe fire risk. Use battery-operated, flameless candles instead. However, for those who insist on lighting candles, never leave them unattended or too close to combustible materials. This is crucial because Hallow-

een decorations cause more than 1,000 home fires annually, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Additionally, from 2009-11, an estimated 11,300 fires were reported to fire departments across the country over a three-day period around Halloween that caused an estimated 30 deaths, 175 injuries and $96 million in property loss, according to the U.S. Fire Administration. The easiest way to a safe Halloween is to make smart decisions from the start, said Don Neal, SCE director of Corporate Environmental, Health and Safety. From not using burning candles t buying costumes and decorations with flame-resistant, flameretardant or non-combustible materials, select with safety in mind.â&#x20AC;?

gaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hospitality and returned in 2013 and 2014, and to raise money for charity. Many of the players and coaches took part in a casino night fundraiser at the Pechanga Resort & Casino on Wednesday night benefiting the Lakers Youth Foundation. About the Pechanga Band of LuiseĂąo Indians The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians is a federally recognized Indian tribe that has called the Temecula Valley home since time immemorial. After years of hardship and mistreatment by settlers, the PechangaIndian Reservation was established by presidential executive order in 1882, affirming the Tribeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sovereign rights and land-base. The Pechanga Band employs over 4,000 people and owns and operates the awardwinning Pechanga Resort & Casino, the largest gaming facility in the western United States.

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Honoring business leaders in the Asian community LOS ANGELES, CA – Each year, the Asian Business Association (ABA) honors leaders in the Asian American business community. The ABA also recognizes corporations who consistently support the Asian business community and provide opportunities for Asian American entrepreneurs to flourish. This year, the Asian Business Association 38th Annual Awards Banquet was held at the Globe Theatre in Universal Studios Hollywood last October 15. Hetty Chang, Emmy-nominated news reporter at NBC4 Southern CA was the mistress of ceremonies. Hundreds gathered to pay tribute to the significant and often unheralded contributions that Asian Americans are making in business and the Southern California economy. Honorees: Business of the Year – Huy Fong Foods (Siracha) Consumer Brand of the Year – VIZIO Entrepreneur of the Year – Toni Ko, Founder and Former Chairwoman of NYX Cosmetics Corporate of the Year – Southern California Gas Company Advocate of the Year – Monetta Stephens, Toyota “The Asian Business Association has a strong commitment to helping diverse Asian-Americans. Not only are they making a difference in business locally but also impacting the community and our great economy,” said awards banquet co-chairs Amanda Ma of Innovative Marketing Group and Jason S. Kim of Blank Rome LLP. “Proceeds from this Awards Banquet will help advance their cause.” “We selected these individuals and organizations because of their business success and their contributions in our economy,” said Dennis J. Huang, ABA Executive Director and CEO. “We are grateful also to our sponsors this year for supporting the important work we’re doing in the community.” Sponsors include: Union Bank, Toyota, Southern California Edison, AEG, AT&T, Walmart, Vizio, US Bank, Dr. Eu-Meg Law, Misty Perfumes and Cosmetics, Northrop Grumman, Southern California Gas Company, Verizon, Walt Disney Company, Wells Fargo, Imprenta Communications Group, Kambrian, Huy Fong Foods, to name a few. About the Asian Business Association The Asian Business(ABA) was founded in 1976 to proactively help Asian Americans gain access to economic opportunities and

This year, the Asian Business Association 38th Annual Awards Banquet was held at the Globe Theatre in Universal Studios Hollywood last October 15. Hetty Chang, Emmy-nominated news reporter at NBC4 Southern CA was the mistress of ceremonies. Hundreds gathered to pay tribute to the significant and often unheralded contributions that Asian Americans are making in business and the Southern California economy.

advancement. With more than 600 members, ABA promotes economic development through its educational conferences, seminars and workshops. These interactive programs are designed to present entrepreneurs with the information, resources, skill-sets, and networking opportunities that they will need to help grow their businesses and successfully compete in the global marketplace.

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Fast-track weight loss no less effective than slow: study (PARIS-AFP) – Weight-loss guidelines have long counseled dieters that kilos shed too quickly are likelier to creep back than those lost at a slower pace. But an Australian study, published on Wednesday, says this is wrong. Over the long term, fast-track and slow-track dieters are equally likely to regain most of the weight they lost, according to a paper published in The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology. Research led by Joseph Proietto of the University of Melbourne divided 204 obese men and women into two groups. One group entered a weightloss program of 12 weeks, the other a more gradual 36 weeks. The 12-week group were restricted to a diet of 450-800 calories per day, while the other group had their energy intake reduced by about 500 calories per day. Those who lost 12.5 percent or more of their bodyweight from both groups were then placed on a three-year maintenance diet.

By the end of the trial, individuals in both groups had regained some 71 percent on average of the kilos they had shed. “By contrast with the widelyheld belief that weight lost rapidly is more quickly regained, our findings show that regain is similar after gradual or rapid weight loss,” the team said. “Our data should guide committees that develop clinical guidelines for the management of obesity to change their advice,” they added. Dieters are generally told that a weight loss tempo of no more than 500 grams (1.1 pounds) per week is best. The researchers noted some interesting short-term differences in how the two groups responded. Among the fast-dieting group, more achieved their weight loss target – 81 percent compared to half of the other group – and fewer left the program. These initial successes may be partly explained by a process called ketosis which kicks in with low-calorie intake – the body

burns fat to produce breakdown products called ketones, which are known to suppress hunger. “Losing weight quickly may also motivate participants to persist with their diet and achieve better results,” said the authors. But this made no difference in the longer term, with the weight piling up again over time. “For weight loss, a slow and steady approach does not win the race,” Corby Martin and Kishore Gadde of the US-based Pennington Biomedical Research Center said in a comment. “The myth that rapid weight loss is associated with rapid weight regain is no more true than one of Aesop’s fables.” In comments distributed by the London-based Science Media Centre, nutritionists said the study reiterated that sustained weight loss remained a challenge, however it is achieved. “While weight loss is hard, weight loss maintenance is even harder,” said Nick Finer, an endocrinologist from University College London Hospitals.

Over the long term, fast-track and slow-track dieters are equally likely to regain most of the weight they lost, according to a new paper. ©Andresr/shutterstock.com

Study finds your brain includes a (free) calorie counter

Calorie-laden foods have a special place in our hearts and our brains, according to a study that suggests we know more than we think about nutrition.©e2dan/shutterstock.com

(Relaxnews) – A neuroimaging study says the brain has a natural affinity for evaluating foods based on their caloric density, containing a library of nutritional information that may be richer than that of your wearable tracker’s software platform. “Our study sought to determine how people’s awareness of caloric content influenced the brain areas known to be implicated in evaluating food options,” says study author Alain Dagher, neurologist at the Montreal Neurological Institute and Hospital. “We found that brain activity

tracked the true caloric content of foods,” he added. In the study, he showed pictures of 50 different but familiar foods to a participant group of 29 healthy individuals who were asked to rate their appreciation of each item on a scale of one to 20 and estimate the calorie content. They were then asked to bid on the food in a make-believe auction to give Dr. Dagher and his team an idea of how much they wanted the food. Although their calorie estimations weren’t accurate, they were willing to pay high prices for high-

calorie food, indicating their desire to eat it. Functional MRI brain scans taken while participants viewed the images showed increased activity in the ventromedial prefrontal cortex – an area that registers tasty stimuli – in proportion to the foods’ caloric content. Scans taken during participants’ rankings of foods showed a proportionally similar activity level in the insula, which is known to filter the sensations brought on by different foods. The study was published in the journal Psychological Science.

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KITCHENOMICS FAMILY FEATURES

he holidays are that special time of year when ingredients are more than just ingredients — they’re what you make of them. The secret to amazing appetizers, memorable meals and fantastic celebrations can be as simple as a few key basics. That’s why Vons is making it easier to find value and the essentials you need all season long, so you can create your own holiday magic. “The six-week holiday season always comes down to the essentials,” said Jeff Anderson, executive chef of the Safeway Culinary Kitchens. “My advice is to stock your pantry with basics like flour, sugar Executive Chef Jeff and butter — both regular and unsalted. That and a few simple recipes will have you prepared for any Anderson of Safeway

meal and ready in a pinch if you need to make an extra batch of cookies.” From a spicy spin on popovers to a savory version of a favorite holiday side dish, Chef Anderson recommends easy, delicious recipes using simple ingredients that won’t break your budget. This holiday season, your local Vons is your go-to source for great prices on all the basics to help you create a simply magical holiday. For more

Mashed Potato Casserole Servings: 6 – 8 4 large russet potatoes (2– 2 1/2 pounds),

peeled, cubed 2 large garlic cloves, peeled (see below) 1 cup (8 ounces) Lucerne Sour Cream 2 tablespoon unsalted butter 2 cups Lucerne Reduced Fat 2% Milk Cheddar Cheese, divided 1/4 cup chopped fresh chives (or 1 1/2 tablespoons dried) 2 tablespoons chopped parsley (or 2 teaspoons dried) Salt to taste Cook potatoes and garlic in large pot of boiling salted water until potatoes are tender; drain. Preheat oven to 350°F. (Do not preheat if refrigerating casserole overnight.) Mash potatoes and garlic with potato masher or handheld mixer until smooth. Stir in sour cream, butter, 1 cup shredded cheese, chives, parsley and salt to taste. Transfer potatoes to 2-quart casserole dish. Sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Bake immediately or cover and refrigerate overnight. Bake 15 minutes (30 minutes if refrigerated) in preheated 350°F oven until heated through and cheese is melted. Serve warm. Note: You can substitute 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder for garlic. Stir powder in with sour cream and remaining ingredients.

Pepper Jack Popovers Servings: 12 1 cup all-purpose flour 1 1/2 cups (6 ounces) Lucerne Pepper Jack Cheese, shredded 1/2 teaspoon salt Pinch cayenne pepper 1 cup milk 2 Lucerne eggs 3 tablespoons Lucerne butter, melted Preheat oven to 375°F. Combine flour, 1 cup of cheese, salt and cayenne in medium bowl.

Chef Jeff ’s Holiday Essentials Simple basics go farther than you think. Keep these items on hand all season and you’ll be ready for delicious meals, holiday events and guests. ROLLS Buy extras and keep some in the freezer. Refresh them in minutes in the oven for mealtime, as well as for sandwiches, breadcrumbs and homemade croutons. CHEESE Stock up on both hard and soft cheese for entertaining and last-minute guests. It holds up well in the refrigerator and can be used in any meal, even dessert. CRACKERS Everyone loves crackers, but they’re not just for appetizers. They are a versatile ingredient for last-minute casserole topping, crunchy breading or baked into meatballs. BUTTER The essential holiday essential. From cookies to mashed potatoes, butter is key for rich flavor in almost everything. Using unsalted butter allows you to control exactly how much salt goes into your dishes.

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MOTORING US urges air bag repairs as Toyota expands recall WASHINGTON, October 20, 2014 (AFP) – US authorities on Monday urged owners of vehicles with potentially deadly defective Takata air bags to seek repairs as Toyota recalled about 247,000 vehicles over the parts flaw. The Transportation Department’s safety agency issued a bulletin to owners of 4.7 million vehicles made by Toyota and five other automakers, highlighting an apparently higher level of danger from the faulty air bags for car owners in areas with high humidity. “The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration urges owners of certain Toyota, Honda, Mazda, BMW, Nissan, and General Motors vehicles to act immediately on recall notices to replace defective Takata air bags,” the NHTSA said. “The message comes with urgency, especially for owners of vehicles affected by the regional

recalls in the following areas: Florida, Puerto Rico, Guam, Saipan, American Samoa, Virgin Islands and Hawaii.” The air bag could improperly inflate and rupture, potentially sending shrapnel into the car’s occupants. Honda has the highest number of vehicles covered by the recall at roughly 2.8 million. Toyota is second at 778,000, followed by BMW at 574,000. The high-profile alert came as Toyota Motor Sales USA said it was recalling Toyota Corolla, Matrix, Sequoia, Tundra and Lexus cars, sport utility vehicles and pick-up trucks produced from 2001 to 2004 to replace the air bag inflator for the front passenger seat. Toyota expanded on an earlier airbag-related recall especially to include vehicles in high humidity areas, including southern Florida, Gulf Coast states, Hawaii and Puerto Rico, where the vehicles

“appear to warrant immediate action” based on testing by Takata. According to Toyota, Takata is still testing whether high humidity is an important factor in the airbag problem. Toyota said it had received no reports yet of injuries or fatalities related to the airbag problem. Still, the seriousness of the risk to occupants of the front seat was underscored in the company’s details on the recall process . If a replacement inflator part is not available when the vehicle is brought in for servicing, the dealer will temporarily disable the front passenger air bag. In that case, the dealer will install a warning that the front passenger seat should not be occupied until the repair has been completed. Toyota’s US-traded shares were up 3.1 percent at $113.24 in afternoon trade on the New York Stock Exchange.

VW to recall more than a million cars in US, China

BEIJING, October 17, 2014 (AFP) – German automaker Volkswagen will recall more than a million cars in China and the United States due to a defect in the rear axles, a company spokesman said. The company’s US unit informed the National Highway Transport Safety Administration that it would recall more than 400,000 Jetta sedan models and nearly 42,000 Beetle cars manufactured between 2011 and 2013, the spokesman told AFP. “In case of an accident, the axle could be damaged. The axle is secure but we are recalling the

vehicles because we cannot be absolutely sure that all our customers will go to a repair shop if an axle is damaged,” he said. Meanwhile the firm’s Chinese joint venture will recall more than 500,000 cars in the country, state media said. The German automaker, which has operated in China since the 1980s, will recall a total of 581,090 cars, the official Xinhua news agency said, citing a statement from China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine. “The administration said it

launched an investigation into the cars in August and the recall is the outcome of months of work on customer feedback and expert analysis,” Xinhua reported. Volkswagen – which operates a joint venture with China FAW Group Corp – has offered to “place a metal plate in the trailing arm of the rear axles to ensure the proper operation of the vehicles in case of a rupture”, it added. Last week, among agreements signed during a visit by Chinese Premier Li Keqiang to Germany, Volkswagen extended its joint venture with FAW until 2041.

This Audi RS 7 Sportback completed a high-speed lap at the Hockenheim ring without the help of a human pilot. ©Audi

Watch the driverless Audi RS 7 Sportback complete a lap The German manufacturer demonstrated a driverless concept ahead of the DTM German Touring Car Championship finals in Hockenheim, Germany on Sunday, October 19, 2014. The autonomous Audi RS 7 completed an entire lap of the track at race speed without a human pilot behind the wheel. To navigate its way around the track, the car uses specially adjusted GPS signals transmitted to its on-board computer via WiFi. At the same time, the car’s 3D cameras film the track and a program compares the incoming footage to previously stored graphics. This technique allows the vehicle to follow an “ideal” trajectory as closely as possible. Audi has been developing driverless technologies for around a decade now, leading to

smart driving aids such as Active Lane Assist and Side Assist, which help with maintaining and changing lanes, and Adaptive Cruise Control, which adjusts the car’s speed to maintain an appropriate distance from the vehicle ahead. The production version of the Audi RS 7 Sportback, launched over the summer, is presented as a rival to the Porsche Panamera, the Maserati Quattroporte, the Aston Martin Rapide S and other luxury sports cars. Under the hood, its 4-liter V8 twin turbo engine develops 560hp. The model is capable of going from 0 to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds and of reaching a top speed of 305km/h. Watch the highlights of the demo of the autonomous Audi RS 7 at Hockenheim: youtu.be/ eOYsI1cqUrw

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Gretchen wants another film with John Lloyd Actress Gretchen Barretto wants to have another movie with John Lloyd Cruz, her costar in the upcoming film “The Trial”. Barretto said it is an honor to work with Cruz, who is considered one of the country’s best actors today. Noting her recent showbiz comeback, Barretto said she has become more selective when it comes to her projects and coactors.

“Ngayon na nakabalik ako sa industriyang pinakamamahal ko, siyempre there are few actors na gusto kong makasama. Hindi natin alam kung hanggang kailan tayo artista or hanggang kailan tayo kukunin. So one of my ultimate dreams, sinabi ko, is to work with John Lloyd because I watch his movies. I am a big fan, I believe in his talent,” she said. “So noong sinabi nila na I’m doing a movie with him, ang

laki ng pasasalamat ko sa ABSCBN, sa Star Cinema. I didn’t feel there was a John Lloyd on the set because talagang nasa character na siya,” she added. Barretto then told Cruz, “Mag-pelikula tayo ulit,” and he actor replied with a smile. Seeing his reaction, Barretto said: “I’m just grateful.” “The Trial”, which also stars Jessy Mendiola and Richard Gomez, hit cinemas nationwide last October 15. (MNS)

Enrique and Liza: Beginning of something wonderful? Enrique Gil and Liza Soberano are both hoping they’d be given more time together to help them establish a credible on-screen chemistry. Fortunately, the two who played best of friends in the 2013 rom-com “She’s The One,” will get their wish as they headline ABS-CBN’s upcoming primetime romantic drama series “Forevermore.” Enrique, who has already been paired with countless leading ladies in his young career, is aware of the disadvantages of not having a constant love team partner, one of which is the inability to develop rapport. Another point of consideration for him are the fans. “Kapag they fall in love with the love team (established) before, mahirap silang mag-accept ng bago.” On the other hand, being able to share screen time with a variety of actors has proven beneficial for Enrique and has allowed him to “grow more as an actor.” Liza, for her part, is excited to be paired with the actor, whom she admits is her crush. “So ngayon I’m happy na ma-e-experience ko na kung pa’no siya as a leading man,” she says. The two are aware of the pressure their launching project entails. “Kailangan talaga naming iprove sa kanila na kaya din namin (to carry a show),” Liza says. “And pressured din kami na siyempre maraming comparisons

Gretchen

Jessy: I joined showbiz because of John Lloyd

Enrique and Liza

(with other love teams).” Enrique is confident that “Forevermore” will do well. “Sobrang ganda ng script at ang buong team, talagang tinutukan nila every detail. “They gave a lot of time and effort, so para sa ’kin super preparado ‘to…imposible na hindi (ang viewers) ma-i-involve o ma-

i-in love sa mga characters namin.” And that is what matters most to him because “’pag minamahal.. .minahal (na) nila ’yung characters namin, sunud-sunod na ’yun.” Both hope “Forevermore” would translate to a longer and more solid team-up. (MNS)

Yeng Constantino shares wedding details Pop-rock singer Yeng Constantino shared some details about her upcoming wedding. Constantino said she will tie the knot with Victor “Yan” Asuncion in Tagaytay City on Valentine’s Day next year. “Sa Tagaytay po... Valentine’s Day,” she said. Constantino said they will go to Maldives for their honeymoon. “Yes, sa Maldives. Personally, kasi gusto ko siya. Tapos may nag-gift sa amin. Pinapili kami either Switzerland o Maldives, so we chose Maldives. Yes, ninang namin sa kasal [ang nagregalo],” the singer said. Asuncion and Constatino are each other’s first official relationship. The two got engaged in March this year after eight months of being a couple. A former band member, Asuncion is currently a worship director at a Christian church. (MNS)

Victor and Yeng

Maxene Magalona wants to move to ABS-CBN “I’m so grateful to them, but now it’s time for me to move on.” This was Maxene Magalona’s declaration when asked about her ties with GMA-7, her home station of over a decade, following her string of guest appearances on rival network ABSCBN in recent weeks. Referring to her guestings in various Kapamilya shows, Magalona said: “Sobrang happy! I mean, it’s a new environment. Sobrang, it’s refreshing. I’m just having so much fun. I’m so happy.” Among the ABS-CBN-produced shows Magalona has appeared in since September are “It’s Showtime,” “The Singing Bee,” and “Kris TV.” The 27-year-old actress, one

of eight children of the late OPM icon Francis Magalona with wife Pia, has been identified with GMA-7 since 2001. “As an artist, ‘di ba, gusto naman nating lahat na mag-grow tayo, you want to do more,” Magalona said, when asked what led to her decision to appear on ABS-CBN. “I just decided since I’m already 27 -- I’m not getting any younger – I just wanted a change of scene, a new environment, new people to work with. I just want to meet a lot of new people and do so much more. So iyon, something new lang.” According to Magalona, her mother, who is also her manager, made it a point to discuss properly their plans for her ca-

reer with GMA-7 management. “My mom did everything the proper way talaga. Kumbaga, nagpaalam kami nang maayos. We did it the right way, the proper way. No bridges were burned. Walang masama na nangyari,” she said. The actress added: “I’m so grateful to them, but now it’s time for me to move on and to grow and to experience new things. I’m doing this for myself. I’m doing this to be able to do what I really want with my life.” Magalona clarified, however, that she has yet to officially sign up as a Kapamilya. “Not as of now! But I’m just so happy and just so thankful to ABS-CBN for opening their doors to me,” she said.

Actress Jessy Mendiola said John Lloyd Cruz, her co-star in the upcoming movie “The Trial”, is the reason why she joined show business. Mendiola said she has been a fan of Cruz, adding that working with the actor is part of her “bucket list.” “Ako para sa akin ay [kasama sa] bucket list ko na makatrabaho si John Lloyd... Kasi dati ko pang pangarap na makatrabaho si John Lloyd. Pumasok ako sa showbiz para makatrabaho siya. Nanood ako ng ‘Maging Sino Ka Man’, totoo,” said Mendiola, referring to Cruz’ defunct hit series on ABS-CBN. The actress went on to share that she initially felt nervous doing scenes with Cruz. “Mas kinakabahan ako kasi napakagaling niyang aktor at kailangan ikaw din ay sumabay din sa galing niya. Kasi sobrang galing niya,” she said. “Siya ‘yung tipong titigan ka niya, ‘di siya magsasalita ng kahit ano, pero alam mong inaalalayan ka niya. He has that look na, ‘you got this.’ Kapag nakuha mo ‘yung eksena, parang nandoon ‘yung look na, ‘okay, nakuha mo siya,’” Jessy she added. abangan nila.” When asked to comment about Directed by Chito Roño, “The shooting a love scene with Cruz, Trial” hit cinemas last October 15. Mendiola replied: “’Yun ang dapat (MNS)

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KO DONAIRE

PACQUIAO

From page 1

at the 50,000-seater Philippine Arena. “Give the ball to Manny!” irate fans shouted from the stands as his team swiftly fell behind. Pacquiao substituted himself after about seven minutes with his team trailing by nine points. He spent the rest of the game on the bench as his team rallied. Chants of “Manny, Manny!” reverberated across the stands as Kia won, 80-66. The Philippine Basketball Association is Asia’s first-for-play cage league that was popularized in the 70s. Soon after, basketball became the most popular sport in the country, albeit the resulting effect of diminishing the amateur talent. Pacquiao said he was preoccupied with his defence of his World Boxing Organisation welterweight title against undefeated American Chris Algieri in Macau in November. Already in the thick of training, Pacquiao said he would not play basketball again until after the Macau bout. “After the fight I should be able to play properly,” he told reporters. Pacquiao, one of the world’s richest sportsmen and also an elected member of

the Philippine parliament, controversially joined the professional basketball rookie draft earlier this year despite doubts that his ability on court measures up to the country’s best. He was drafted 11th overall by Kia, owned by a business friend. Filipino boxing fans also fretted he could injure himself playing ball against younger, much taller and heavier opponents and endanger his boxing career. “God forbid that he should suffer a ligament or tendon tear,” Oliver Wendell Lozano, the head doctor of the league and a rabid basketball fan, told AFP as he watched the game. He said such an injury would require a four-week treatment period. A broken bone would be even worse, requiring up to 16 weeks of treatment and healing, he added. However, Lozano was sure Pacquiao was made of sterner stuff. “Boxers have a tougher bone structure. It has something to do with their training,” he added. Pacquiao said he had no fear of serious injury. “God is taking care of me,” he added.

MOM WILLING From page 1

Julita said. “Oo, nandoon na ako, pero hindi naman lahat ng Amerikano ipapakulong ko. Kung sino lang ‘yung may kasalanan, ‘yun lang,” she added. Laude’s mother and her family feel that they’re slowly feeling the case moving forward, more than a week after the 26-year-old transgender was found dead in an inn in Olongapo City. Pemberton, currently kept “under restrictive status” in the USS Pelileu, was summoned last week by the Olongapo City

Prosecutor’s Office to a preliminary investigation on the killing. On Monday, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said Pemberton must attend the proceedings, after the US Embassy announced that the US serviceman may or may not appear in the scheduled preliminary probe on Tuesday. Laude’s remains, meanwhile, will be cremated on Friday. The victim’s German fiancé, Marc Sueselbeck, has arrived in the Philippines to pay his last respects. (MNS)

fending for the first time the WBA crown he won in May at Macau over South African Simpiwe Vetyeka. Donaire was able to land a left hook that stung Walters just before the end of the second round. “I got a little bit too confident,” Walters said. “He caught me with a very good shot. Boom.

“I recuperated from the shot just by walking to the corner. I came out and I knew I had a job to do and I went out and got that job done.” The Caribbean fighter answered by inflicting Donaire’s first career knockdown with 30 seconds remaining in the third round, slamming a right uppercut into the champion’s chin.

79% WANT From page 1

appear in the Senate to answer all allegations against him?” Of those polled, 79 percent agreed Binay should face the Senate, 10 percent disagreed, and 11 percent were undecided. Of the respondents who agreed, 57 percent “strongly” agreed, 22 percent “somewhat” agreed. Of those who disagreed, six percent “somewhat disagreed,” four percent “strongly” disagreed. The Senate Blue Ribbon subcommittee has been investigating allegations that Binay and his family had unexplained wealth. Among the matters the subcommittee has looked into is the supposedly overpriced Makati City Building Hall II, and Binay’s alleged ownership of a 350-hectare estate in Rosario, Batangas. Former Makati Vice Mayor Ernesto Mercado revealed the Vice President benefitted from the P2.5 billion Makati City Hall Building II. The P2.5-billion building was overpriced by P1.314 billion, according to the complaint filed by defeated mayoralty candidate Renato Bondal against the vice president and his son, Makati Mayor Junjun Binay. Bondal was Junjun Binay’s op-

ponent in the 2013 elections. The building was constructed in 2007 when the elder Binay was Makati mayor and Junjun a city councilor. Vice President Binay has denied all the allegations against him. Mayor Binay also dismissed the plunder complaint filed against them before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the alleged overpricing as a move by “desperate” opponents who want to bring his father down. The Senate blue ribbon subcommittee has invited the Vice President to attend its Sept. 25 hearing, but Binay sent a letter saying he could not attend it. In an interview during an event in Tondo that day, Binay said he’d rather work than attend the hearing where he expected “lies” to be hurled against him. Cavite Governor Jonvic Remulla, Binay’s spokesperson, said the Vice President declined the committee’s invitation with the belief that the speech he delivered the week before would suffice to answer the accusations. The Senate blue ribbon subcommittee said it will invite the vice president again for a hearing.

NO REASON From page 1

WITNESSES From page 1

al headlines and become an issue in the defense ties between the Philippines and the United States, its former colonial ruler and longtime ally. Police said they found the victim half-naked on the bathroom floor of a hotel room with more than a dozen bruises, cuts and bite marks. They said the victim, who had checked in with the suspect just over an hour earlier, had died from “asphyxia by drowning”. Police and the prosecutor named the suspect as Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, attached to a North Carolinabased unit that had just taken part in joint military exercises in the Philippines. Under the bilateral Visiting Forces

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Agreement, the suspect will be charged in a Philippine court but custody will remain with the Americans unless the US government waives this. Philippine diplomats have said they will ask for his custody once an arrest warrant is issued but it is not clear if the United States will grant this. The Philippines has said the politically charged case should not be allowed to derail longstanding defense ties, amid growing public pressure for Pemberton to be handed over into Philippines custody. The Philippines agreed in March to allow US forces wider temporary access to Filipino military facilities.

who also went by the name Jennifer. A murder complaint has since been filed against Pemberton. Lawyer Harry Roque, who acts as the legal counsel of Laude, earlier announced over the weekend that Barbie had been placed under the government’s Witness Protection Program. De Lima, however, said Barbie has yet to be formally admitted to the program. The preliminary investigation on the case is set on Tuesday, October 21. There is no assurance yet that Pemberton will attend the proceedings, but De Lima said they will insist on his presence. At present, Pemberton is aboard USS Peleliu docked in Subic Bay. The ship was barred from leaving the country pending the results of the investigation.

Pemberton was a participant in the recently concluded Amphibious Landing Exercises, a joint military exercise between Filipino and US forces covered by the RPUS Visiting Forces Agreement. Santiago earlier called on the executive branch to do away with the VFA, saying the alleged involvement of a US Marine in the killing of Laude again showed that the treaty was skewed in favor of visiting American troops. She said the previous case of another US Marine, Lance Corporal Daniel Smith, who was convicted for raping a Filipina, and the recent incident could be grounds for the termination of VFA. In 2005, the US, pursuant to the VFA took custody of Smith. (MNS)