Weekend balita february 7, 2015 by Balita Media Inc

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VOL. XXIII, NO. 1

FEBRUARY 7 - 13, 2015

THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FILIPINO-AMERICANS

Shadowy forces to oust Aquino? Purisima quits; Aquino accepts MANILA, Feb 6 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III has accepted the resignation of his longtime pal, suspended Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Alan Purisima, who reportedly planned the January 25 operation in Mamasapano, Maguindanao, where 44 elite policemen were killed. “Tinatanggap ko po, effective immediately, ang resignation ni General Purisima. At nagpapasalamat ako sa mahabang panahon ng kanyang paglilingkod bago mangyari ang trahedyang ito,” Aquino said in a televised address Friday, his second in two weeks. Purisima is at the center of controversy following the the bloody police operation in Mamasapano where members of the PNP-Special Action Force (SAF), tasked to serve arrest warrant on two terrorists in the area, clashed with members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and its breakaway group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). On Wednesday, relieved PNP-SAF chief Director Getulio Napeñas said he received direct orders from Purisima during the operation, despite the police chief’s suspension following accusations of corruption. Aquino, during his speech, admitted

Trillanes: Groups are taking advantage of Mamasapano clash to oust President

Mourners take part in a memorial for the victims of the Mamasapano encounter in front of the Philippine National Police Headquarters in Quezon City Tuesday. The groups demand truth and accountability from those involved in the bloody clash, which resulted in the death of 44 PNP-SAF officers, 18 Moro rebels, and 7 civilians. (MNS photo)

See PURISIMA, page 12

At a media briefing at Camp Aguinaldo on Wednesday, February 4, AFP chief Gen. Gregorio Pio Catapang Jr. shows a map where the January 25 Mamasapano clash that killed over 50 people, most of them PNP-SAF commandos, took place. (MNS photo)

DNA shows ‘Marwan’ likely killed in Mamasapano raid: FBI By Joel Guinto

Manila, Philippines | AFP | Thursday 2/5/2015 – The FBI has said that DNA analysis indicates one of the world’s most wanted terrorists, Bali bomber Zulkifli bin Hir, was likely killed in a Philippine police raid last month that also claimed the lives of 44 commandos. The hunt for Zulkifli ended at his hideout on remote farmland in the southern island of Mindanao just before dawn on January 25. Philippines media on Thursday ran a photo purportedly showing his dead body, sprawled in a hut and in a bloodsoaked shirt. A top militant in the Southeast Asian terror group Jemaah Islamiyah (JI), he is a key suspect in the 2002 Bali nightclub bombings which killed 202 people, as well as two deadly Philippine blasts. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tested a sample from the body identified by Philippine police as Zulkifli, David

Bowdich, assistant director in charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles field office, said in a statement sent to AFP. “As we have reported to our Philippine law enforcement partners, preliminary results indicate that the DNA profiles obtained from the biological sample indicate a possible relationship with a known relative of Zulkifli,” he said. “Although the results of the DNA examinations do not provide absolute identification, the results do support that the biological sample provided by Philippine authorities came from Marwan,” he said, using the militant’s alias. The death would be a boost for President Benigno Aquino, who has been heavily criticized over the botched Mindanao raid which descended into chaos when police were ambushed by rebel forces. The US State Department had put up a $5 million reward for Zulkifli, a multilinSee MARWAN KILLED, page 13

MANILA, Feb 5 (Mabuhay) – Senator Antonio Trillanes IV on Thursday said there are groups taking advantage of the tense situation following the deaths of 44 Special Action Force commandos in Mamasapano, Maguindanao to oust President Benigno Aquino III. “Merong nag-oorganisa. Nagmi-meeting na sila sa sequence of events na gagawin nila. You can feel it moving. They are hoping that the sentiment of the people will lead to, let’s say, social upheaval,” Trillanes said at a news forum at the Senate. He said the groups come from different sectors such as the Catholic Church, leftist organizations, and the political opposition. “Merong nanggagatong na mga political forces diyan sa mga sama ng loob na ‘yan. In the coming days, may makikita na kayong placards uli,” he added. “Let’s just say na marami tayong nakukuhang information ngayon at pinasa na sa security at intelligence community para sila ang mag-validate,” Trillanes said Trillanes said the sentiments of the public are valid. “Valid ‘yung sama ng loob. Kailangan lang idiin pa, gatungan pa. ‘Yun ang purpose ng mga grupong ito. Hindi pa humuhupa ang galit at lungkot sa mga nangyari kaya it’s totally understandable dahil sa perspective ng SAF people e humingi ng tulong ang kanilang tropa pero hindi dumating ang tulong,” he said. The 44 SAF commandos were killed in an hours-long firefight on Jan. 25 with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and its splinter group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters. The police officers were supposed to serve the warrants of See SHADOWY FORCES, page 13

3 Pinoys missing, new death toll after Libya raid Tripoli, Libya | AFP | Thursday 2/5/2015 – Three Filipinos are missing after gunmen attacked an oil field in Libya and killed 11 workers earlier this week, the parallel administration that controls the capital said Thursday, revising a previous toll. Mashallah al-Zwei, oil minister in the Tripoli-based government, told journalists 11 people -- 10 Libyans and a Nigerien—died at the field, which is partly owned by France’s Total and has 57 employees. An earlier toll for Tuesday night’s attack on Al-Mabruk field put the number of dead at 13, including three Filipinos and two Ghanaians. The three Filipinos work for Italian engineering company Sogepi, said Zwei. And the foreign ministry in Manila See 3 PINOYS, page 13

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Visayan solons reject calls for Aquino’s resignation, impeachment MANILA, Feb 5 (Mabuhay) –Members of the Visayan bloc in the House of Representatives on Thursday rejected calls for the resignation or impeachment of President Benigno Aquino III following the bloody Mamasapano incident last January 25. “We will not support any calls for the resignation or the impeachment of President Benigno S. Aquino III amid the controversy over the recent operation of the SAF (Special Action Force) of the Philippine National Police in Mamasapano, Maguindanao,” the 34-member group said in a manifesto. The manifesto was signed by the bloc’s 34 members led by Iloilo Rep. Jerry Treñas and Occidental Rep. Alfredo “Albee” Benitez.. The manifesto came a day after opposition lawmakers from the Makabayan bloc renewed calls for Aquino’s impeachment following the recent ruling of the Supreme Court on the administration’s Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) and the Mamasapano incident where 44 SAF troopers were killed in an encounter with Moro Islamic Liberation Front and Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters combatants. In their manifesto, the Visayan bloc said although they honor the “extraordinary” bravery of the 44 policemen, they are “steadfast” in their position that “President Benigno S. Aquino should neither resign nor be impeached, because of the Mamasapano case.” “Change in administration should be the farthest solution to what happened in Maguindano and should not be our response to our currently hurting nation,” they said. Instead of pushing for Aquino’s resignation or impeachment, the Visayan lawmakers said the House of Representatives must

focus on an immediate investigation on the Mamasapano incident. “The probe should immediately identify those who should be accountable for what happened, ensure that perpetrators of the massacre suffer the full force of our penal laws, and develop remedies that would prevent another incident from happening in the future to the men in uniform,” they said. The House committee on public order is set to start its probe on the Mamasapano incident on Wednesday next week, with suspended PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima as among those invited. Reports have it that Aquino and Purisima have a hand in the Mamasapano operation. Aquino, in a televised speech last week, admitted being aware of the PNP’s plan to arrest Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan and Filipino bombmaker Abdulbasit Usman, but did not categorically say who gave the go-signal for the January 25 operation. The Makabayan bloc has said the Mamasapano incident can be considered an added ground for Aquino’s impeachment. The seven-member bloc said it will urge more members of the House to vote in favor of the existing impeachment complaint against Aquino, which remains pending at the plenary. The House committee on justice chaired by Iloilo Rep. Niel Tupas Jr. in September last year junked the three impeachment complaints filed by the Makabayan bloc against Aquino for being “insufficient in substance.” Meanwhile, Liberal Party Secretary General and Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento said there is “no legal or even moral ground” to call for Aquino’s resignation as well as on the claims that the President can be charged before the International Criminal Court.

Senators Juan Edgardo Angara (left) and Aquilino Pimentel III (extreme right) exchange views before the Senate passage on third and final reading of the bill postponing the Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) elections from Feb. 21, 2015 to the last Monday of October 2016. Also in photo are Senate President Franklin Drilon and Senators Joseph Victor Ejercito and Paolo Benigno Aquino IV. (MNS photo)

Espina: PNP’s relationship with AFP very strong MANILA, Feb 5 (Mabuhay) – After saying that the national police force is in crisis after the Mamasapano carnage, Philippine National Police (PNP) officerin-charge Leonardo Espina on Thursday said the PNP needs to move forward and focus on hunting the terror suspect who got away. In a press conference, Espina debunked insinuations that the PNP and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) are at odds following accusations of no coordination during the Mamasapano operation to hunt down Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan. He assured the public that the PNP is fine and its relationship with the military is very strong. “We assure everybody that we are all okay. The PNP, our relationship with the AFP, remains very, very strong, and both organizations will continue to serve the

people as we are mandated to do and as we are expected to do,” he said. The police and military organizations have come under pressure after 44 police commandos were killed in the Mamasapano, Maguindanao operation to hunt down Marwan. The commandos said they were able to take out Marwan but were trapped by Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) rebels and elements of the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). On Wednesday, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Gregorio Catapang said they could not respond immediately to the distress call of the police commandos who were being attacked during the Mamasapano operation. “We did not know the exact place where the forces had to be extricated... they were not telling us their exact location so it was difficult,” Catapang has said.

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What happens to my car if I file bankruptcy? There are several issues to consider in answering this question. The most important point is the value of your car. In most cases, you can protect your car using the allowable bankruptcy code exemptions. An exemption allows you to file for bankruptcy relief and protect some of your property. The bankruptcy courts understand you need a car to get to work and to pick your kids up from school. So long as you aren’t driving an antique classic car, or an expensive sports car you will likely be able to keep your car. The next question is whether you have either continue making the monthly lease clear title to your car. If you have pledged payments, or surrender the car back to the your vehicle as security for a debt, or if you creditor. If you surrender the leased car, any are financing or leasing a vehicle, you have obligation under the lease will be elimithree options for secured car loans when nated in your Chapter 7 bankruptcy case. you file Chapter 7 bankruptcy. Car Loans in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy Reaffirm: A reaffirmation agreement is Chapter 13 bankruptcy is a powerful a contract between you and the car creditor tool to protect your car from repossesin which you agree to pay the balance owed sion. If you have fallen behind on your on your car note, despite the bankruptcy car payments, you can file a Chapter 13 filing. You continue to make payments, bankruptcy to stop the repossession of your and the creditor promises that, as long as vehicle and repay any delinquent monies payments are made, the creditor will not due. If you are not delinquent, you have repossess or take back the property. the choice of just continuing your regular Reaffirmed debts are not discharged, the payments, or surrender the vehicle, and debt survives the bankruptcy. If you do not discharge the balance as an unsecured debt, make your car payments after you reaffirm much te same way as in chapter 7. the car loan the car lender can repossess the 910 Claims: If you bought your vehicle car and sue you for the deficiency balance. less than 910 days of filing your bankruptAfter the finance company repossesses the cy case, you must repay the entire car loan. car they will sell the car at the auto auc- The good news is that the interest rate you tion. Usually the finance company does pay on your car loan may be significantly not get enough money from the auction to reduced. For example, if you owed $10,000 pay off your loan. This shortfall is called a on a car loan whose blue book value was “deficiency” and you would still be legally only $5000, you would be required to pay obligated to pay the creditor the deficiency the entire $10,000 balance if the car was balance. As you can see, the decision to purchased less than 30 months, or 910 reaffirm your car loan is a serious financial days, of filing. In short, debtors who want matter. to keep their cars must pay the full loan Reaffirmation agreements are strictly amount, rather than “cram down” the debt voluntary. You are not required by the to the value of the car. Bankruptcy Code or other state or federal Cram Down: If you bought your law to reaffirm your car loan. Before enter- car more than 910 days before you file ing into such an agreement, you will want bankruptcy, you will only have to repay to speak to your bankruptcy attorney to an amount equal to the present value of make sure that the reaffirmation is in your the car. For example, if you owed $5000 best interest. on a car that is worth only $2500, upon Redeem: In Chapter 7, you have the filing Chapter 13 you would be required right to purchase or redeem your car from to repay the finance company only $2500 the creditor by making a lump sum pay- over the three to five year term of your ment equal to the car’s fair market value. Chapter 13 Plan. The 2005 bankruptcy code provides that Car Leases in Chapter 13 Bankruptcy you must pay the creditor the replacement You car lease cannot be paid through retail cost of the car. The balance of the the Chapter 13 Plan you devise with your debt will be discharged. For example, as- bankruptcy attorney. You can “assume” sume you own a car worth $5000.00, but the lease and continue making the monthly owe the finance company $10,000.00. In payments. this circumstance, you could redeem the You can “reject” the lease and return vehicle by paying the creditor $5000.00 the car to the creditor. The creditor will and the remaining balance will be dis- sell the leased vehicle, apply the sale procharged in your bankruptcy. Your bank- ceeds to your lease balance and then file a ruptcy attorney can advise you on the claim in your Chapter 13 bankruptcy case benefits of redeeming your financed car for the lease deficiency. This deficiency is and identifying lenders that will provide an unsecured, non-priority claim, which the funds for your vehicle redemption. means you will likely only pay the finance Surrender: If you cannot afford the company pennies on the dollar. monthly payments on your car loan, or if For solutions to all of your financial you determine that you owe more than the problems, and rebuilding your credit, concar is worth, you can unload the car and tact the law offices of Paul M. Allen. We the debt in your Chapter 7 bankruptcy by promise that help is just a phone call away. surrendering the vehicle to the creditor. Consultations are free, but by appointment Car Leases in Chapter 7 Bankruptcy only. Call today at 818-552-4500. We have If you are leasing your car when you file two convenient locations: Glendale and Chapter 7 bankruptcy you can choose to La Palma.

Koko sees good deal in P240-M diagnosis and repair of 82k PCOS machines MANILA, Feb 5 (Mabuhay) – Senator Aquilino Pimentel III believes the government will get a good deal out of the P240-million contract the Commission on Election signed with Smartmatic for the diagnostics and repairs of 82,000 votecounting machines. “We are glad that we conducted this hearing, at least we know now the history of that negotiated contract between Comelec and Smartmatic. Hindi lang naman pala yan refurbishing or diagnostics but actual repair and even replacement of totally defective machines,” the senator told reporters during the break of the hearing of the Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on the Automated Election System. He said it was still up to the Supreme Court to determine whether the contract was legal.

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Pope to make historic US Congress address on Sept. 24 Washington, United States | AFP | Thursday 2/5/2015 – Pope Francis will bring his message of peace and compassion to politically gridlocked Washington in September when he becomes the first pontiff to address the US Congress, lawmakers said Thursday. Francis, who is also expected to meet President Barack Obama, will speak before members of the Senate and House of Representatives on September 24 after finally accepting an invitation extended in March last year. “That day his holiness will be the first pope in our history to address a joint session of Congress,” House Speaker John Boehner told reporters. “We are humbled that the holy father has accepted our invitation and certainly look forward to receiving his message on behalf of the American people.” The 78-year-old leader of the world’s Roman Catholics confirmed late last year that he would visit the United States in September to take part in a Catholic Church congress in Philadelphia. He will also address the United Nations in New York. “I am very much looking forward to welcoming Pope Francis to the United States later this year,” Obama, who was received by the pontiff at the Vatican last March, said at Thursday’s National Prayer Breakfast in Washington. The pope is hugely popular in the United States, with a Pew poll in December showing 78 percent of Americans have a favorable view of Francis. House Democratic leader Nancy Pelosi, who like Boehner is Catholic, said lawmakers were “honored and overjoyed that Pope Francis, the first pontiff born in the Americas, has accepted our invitation.”

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Vatican City, Holy See | AFP | Thursday 2/5/2015 – Pope Francis on Thursday warned Catholic clergy they must never try to cover up sexual abuse, as a new Church child protection panel prepares to meet for the first time. In a strongly-worded letter to the heads of national bishops’ conferences and religious orders, the pope demanded “close and complete” cooperation with the watchdog he has established at the Vatican. “Families need to know that the Church is making every effort to protect their children,” he said. The Pontifical Commission for the Protection of Minors, which will hold its first full meeting on Friday, has been given a brief to drive reform on an issue that has severely damaged the Church’s authority and reputation around the world. Headed by American cardinal Sean O’Malley, it includes clerics and lay people from all corners of the world, including two victims of pedophile priests, Ireland’s Marie Collins and Peter Sanders from Britain. Vatican officials say it is a sign of how, after years of hesitation, the Church is finally addressing the abuse issue seriously. But critics such as the survivors network SNAP say it must match rhetoric with action, notably on the confidentiality surrounding pedophile priests who have been subject to internal church disciplinary proceedings and, in some cases, been allowed to resume their clerical careers. In his letter published Thursday, the pope said families needed to know they could turn to the Church in confidence.

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“Consequently, priority must not be given to any other kind of concern, whatever its nature, such as the desire to avoid scandal, since there is absolutely no place in ministry for those who abuse minors.” ‘Truth is the truth’ Francis’s letter follows the announcement last month that 10 priests and two Catholic lay workers in the Spanish city of Granada have been charged with the sexual abuse of altar boys between 2004 and 2007. It is the biggest case of its kind yet in Spain, where the Church has long been accused of exactly the kind of cover-up Francis alluded to. The Granada arrests came after a former altar boy, now 25, wrote to Francis to say he had been molested by priests from the age of seven to 18. The pope called the man back personally and told him to go straight to his bishop, to whom the pontiff wrote with orders to open an investigation. “How did I receive this news?” the pope said of the episode in November. “With great pain, very great pain, but the truth is the truth and we should not hide it.” Embrace victims The Argentinian pontiff also used Thursday’s letter to remind bishops that the safety of minors and vulnerable adults in their dioceses is their responsibility. They had to ensure Vatican instructions on how to handle sexual abuse cases were implemented, and procedures put in place to ensure future compliance. The Church must also embrace victims, Francis said. “Pastors and those in charge of religious

communities should be available to meet with victims and their loved ones: such meetings are valuable opportunities for listening to those who have greatly suffered and for asking their forgiveness,” the pontiff wrote. ‘Do something concrete’ Francis’s public stance on pedophile priests has helped the Church undo some of the huge damage it suffered in the 1990s and 2000s as the scale of clerical abuse began to become apparent. Anecdotal evidence suggests tens of thousands of priests worldwide may have been abusers. The Vatican last year published figures showing that 3,420 cases had been dealt with by church tribunals in the previous decade. But while high-profile figures such as Collins and Sanders have opted to work with the current pope, other victims continue to maintain the Church is still protecting pedophiles within its ranks. Mary Caplan, a spokeswoman for the New York arm of SNAP, said the new commission needs to take concrete steps such as naming every pedophile priest the Vatican is aware of and handing over evidence from church disciplinary proceedings to secular authorities. “Dr Martin Luther King, Jr said ‘The time is always right to do what is right,’ and what is right in Rome this week isn’t tweaking church policies that sound good on paper but are routinely ignored by selfish bishops,” Kaplan said. “What’s right in Rome this week is for this panel to actually do something that protects kids today.”

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Hackers steal data on ‘tens of millions’ Anthem customers New York, United States | AFP | Thursday 2/5/2015 – Hackers stole data on as many as 80 million customers at US health insurance giant Anthem, in what is believed to be the worst breach on record of medical records. “Cyber attackers executed a very sophisticated attack to gain unauthorized access to one of Anthem’s IT systems and have obtained personal information relating to consumers and Anthem employees who are currently covered, or who have received coverage in the past,” a statement Wednesday from the secondlargest US health insurer said. “Once the attack was discovered, An-

them immediately made every effort to close the security vulnerability, contacted the FBI and began fully cooperating with their investigation,” said chief executive Joseph Swedish. “Anthem’s own associates’ personal information – including my own – was accessed during this security breach. We join you in your concern and frustration, and I assure you that we are working around the clock to do everything we can to further secure your data.” The information includes names, birth dates, social security numbers, street addresses, email addresses and employment information, the company said.

PHL urges China to show respect in South China Sea Manila, Philippines | AFP | Thursday 2/5/2015 – The Philippines accused China on Thursday of ramming Filipino fishing boats off a disputed shoal in the South China Sea, and demanded its powerful neighbor respect its sovereignty over the potential flashpoint territory. The foreign ministry said it has sent two notes of protest over the January 29 incident off Scarborough Shoal as well as the removal of critically endangered giant clams by Chinese fishermen in the area a week earlier. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman disputed Manila’s version of the first incident on Thursday, stressing its coast guard was performing its “normal” duties on Chinese territory. “The Philippines continues to urge China to respect the Philippines’ sovereign rights and jurisdiction over Bajo de Masinloc,” Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario told AFP on Thursday, referring

to the shoal by its local name. China must “desist from undertaking activities that not only imperil the lives, safety and livelihood of Filipino fishermen but also damage the fragile marine environment in that area”, del Rosario added. The ministry alleged three Filipino-flagged vessels were “intentionally rammed” by a vessel with Chinese coastguard markings, causing damage and endangering the crews’ lives. It also alleged 24 Chinese boats harvested endangered giant clams in the area a week earlier. “The Huangyan island is an inherent part of Chinese territory,” Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said Thursday, calling the shoal by its Chinese name. “The thing is, on January 29, multiple Philippine fishing boats lingered illegally in the shallow waters of the Huangyan island, disobeying the instruction of the Chinese side” to leave the area.

“The affected database has records for 80 million people and tens of millions” of them were stolen, spokeswoman Cindy Wakefield said. The breach is the latest exposing personal information on millions. Last year, US retailer Home Depot said 53 million email addresses were stolen, months after fellow retailer Target said personal data on 70 million customers was accessed. Some experts say medical data can be even more lucrative to hackers than credit cards, because they can create fake identities for prescription drugs to be resold, or file false insurance claims.

Security experts welcomed Anthem’s decision to make the issue public swiftly. “I’m pleased to see Anthem publishing information about the security breach online, and I’m sure customers will be grateful that the company has not tried to hide away the news,” independent security researcher Graham Cluley said in a blog post. “But what’s really necessary is for companies and organizations to do a better job at protecting our personal information. Too many firms who are entrusted with data from the general public are finding themselves in the uncomfortable position of admitting that they have been hacked.”

At least 25 dead as Taiwan plane plunges into river By Benjamin Yeh

Taipei, Taiwan | AFP | Wednesday 2/4/2015 – At least 25 people were killed Wednesday when a passenger plane operated by TransAsia Airways clipped an overpass soon after take-off and plunged into a river in Taiwan, the airline’s second crash in seven months. As the rescue operation continued into the night, a crane lifted the rear and central sections of the plane from the water, with one body retrieved from inside. The front part, where 17 people are believed to be trapped, was still in the water. TransAsia said 16 survivors had been pulled out of the wreckage after the turboprop plane crashed with 58 people onboard. Many of the passengers were mainland Chinese tourists. Cold weather, poor visibility and rising water levels were hampering the rescue, officials said, admitting they were now “not optimistic” about finding survivors. Dramatic amateur video footage showed the TransAsia ATR 72-600 hit an elevated road as it banked sidelong towards the Keelung River, leaving a trail of debris including a smashed taxi. “I saw a taxi, probably just meters ahead of me, being hit by one wing of the plane. The plane was huge and really close to me. I’m still trembling,” one witness told TVBS news channel. An AFP reporter at the scene saw bodies being pulled from the wreckage into the early evening. Desperate crew members shouted “Mayday! Mayday! Engine flameout!” as the plane plunged out of the sky, according to a recording thought to be the final message from the cockpit to the control tower, played on local television.

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Senior client seeks Chapter 7 to discharge 200K of income taxes Client is an investment & financial broker who advises people how to invest their retirement accounts. He is now 60 years old. During the heyday of the stock market boom before itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collapse in 2007, client made a lot of money. Year after year, he was making between $250K to $400K a year. The problem of course, when you are a high-income earner, is that you will owe money to the IRS, which you should pay in full when itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s due. Otherwise, if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have the discipline or the cash flow to pay the IRS in full, then, even if you are an astute investment & financial broker like my client, you can end up owing the IRS AMNESTY a small fortune of $200,000. With interest The OBAMA AMNESTY which allows and penalties accruing everyday, client can people who are here without legal status owe the IRS half a million dollars when it provided they have a qualifying child who is is time for him to retire. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not a pretty an American citizen or legal permanent resipicture to look at. Right now, clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s current dent, to get a work permit valid for 3 years income is under $100K a year. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s still and renewable for periods of 3 years per good income, but with a $200K tax liability, renewal is getting into higher gear because client is getting depressed and has lost his the USCIS was directed to start accepting love for life. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very unfortunate because applications by February 19, 2015. People he actually owes the IRS a large debt, but he who entered as minors and who graduated does not owe the IRS his life. from a US high school or obtained a GED The question is: Can client discharge also qualify. Applications will be decided by $200K of income taxes owed for the years the USCIS on a case-by-case basis. Docu2004, 2005, 2006 and 2007? Bankruptcy mented entries with passports and I-94â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, or law states that taxes owed to the IRS are undocumented entries through the border, DISCHARGEABLE provided certain fac- or otherwise undocumented, it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mattors are met: 1) The taxes owed are at least ter as long as AMNESTY requirements are three years old before the bankruptcy is filed; met. I urge you to see me now. Now is the 2) A tax assessment must have been made time to apply. at least 260 days before the bankruptcy is CLIENTS entered the United States 10 filed. 3) There was no fraud involved. There years ago with their 2 daughters under faare other factors but letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not discuss those therâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s H1-B visa. Mother and two daughters here. The first three factors are the gener- entered with father as H1-B dependents. ally applicable factors that debtors have to Father was a teacher sponsored by a private contend with. Since these tax returns were high school. During a transition period filed at least 8 years ago, the first factor is where father was transferring to another job, easily complied with. his H1-B status lapsed, and so, the entire It appears from the documents I see that family went out of status. Older daughter is all taxes were assessed in 2010, so the second now 29 and became an American citizen by factor is also complied with. Since these tax marriage. Note at this point, that parents can returns were pretty much routine, nothing to actually qualify for OBAMA AMNESTY hide, there was no fraud involved. Neither because they have a daughter who is a US did the IRS state that there was some kind of citizen. However, the problem is that their fraud involved when it made the tax assess- younger daughter who is now 16 is graduatment. Consequently, it is safe to assume that ing high school next year, and wants to go to clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chapter 7 discharge will discharge a university of California. Note also that this all of the $200,000 of taxes owed. younger daughter can also qualify herself If the IRS contests dischargeability, either under OBAMA AMNESTY because she is client or the IRS will file an adversary case currently in high school in the United States to have a ruling on dischargeability. How- and entered the United States as a minor and ever, this appears as a prima facie slam dunk currently has no legal status. case in favor of client who will discharge Even though younger daughter can get everything he owes to the IRS with a Chap- AMNESTY that will not be good enough for ter 7 discharge. With this wipe out of his her because she needs student loans for her staggering debt owed to the IRS, client can college expenses and in-state tuition at the face his golden years in peace, and even be UC, as well as to qualify for student loans. productive again. Client now has a new zest To enter UC, in addition to being a CA for life, which he had lost in the last 8 years. resident, daughter must be a permanent PARENTS HURRY TO LEGALIZE resident of the United States, not just holding STATUS TO COVER DAUGHTER WHO a work permit under AMENSTY. Further, ACTUALLY QUALIFIES FOR OBAMA even if parents also qualify for OBAMA

AMNESTY with an American citizen older daughter, that will not be good enough to give any permanent resident derivative status to younger daughter for her to get into UC with in-state tuition and get Federal student loans. Younger daughter needs at the very least, an approved derivative permanent resident status, to make her eligible for UC in-state tuition, and Federal student loans. Time is of the essence. With this situation, CLIENTS will have to move quickly to have their older daughter petition them for permanent residency right now, and hopefully, we can get younger daughter to have at the very least an approved permanent resident derivative status petition by the time she starts applying for college later this year.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;AS FOR ME, I WATCH IN HOPE FOR THE LORD, I WAIT FOR GOD MY SAVIOR; MY GOD WILL HEAR ME.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x201C; MICAH 7:7. Lawrence Bautista Yang is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and has been in law practice for thirty years. He specializes in bankruptcy, business and civil litigation and has handled more than five thousand successful bankruptcy cases in California. He speaks Tagalog and looks forward to discussing your case with you personally. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S Fremont Ave, MAILSTOP 58, Building A-1 SUITE 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803 OR at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789.

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LOS ANGELES 8 Kuh Ledesma and Daughter Isabella in a Pasadena Fundraising Concert Visit www.Balita.com

Two California Christian churches are joining forces in an effort to bring to other areas the message of love and forgiveness preached more than two thousand years in a concert of talented artists in Pasadena. Crossroads Christian Fellowship and JIR Foundation collaborate in presenting Kuh Ledesma and her daughter, Isabella Gonzalez, in a concert called “Till I Met You” at the First Church the missions that reach the ”lost.” of Nazarene (3700 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Under the leadership of its Senior PasPasadena) on May 8. tor, Gideon Dignadice, CCF has been the Crossroad Christian Fellowship (CCF) spiritual home of many Christians since in partnering with the non-profit JIR Foun- February 2002. It was started a group of dation allow Christians in a way to “fulfill people whose hearts cry for the need “to the Great Commission” of the Bible by start a new ministry focused on missions supporting missions that that they them- especially in the Philippines”. CCF has been supporting missionarselves cannot join personally because of some reasons. Supporting the fundraising ies here and abroad through cooperative activities sort of allows them to be part of programs affiliation and has been involved

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in church planting activities in the Philippines and Southern California. JIR Foundation, on the other hand, is devoted to assisting full-time Christian workers in the Philippines, Asia, and the world at large and assists Christian workers by way of gifts and grants to “meet the daily needs of Christian laborers, ministers and missionaries in their efforts to fulfill the Great Commission”. JIR provides a bridge by which donors reach out to the harvest fields. Kuh Ledesma is practically known to avid concert-goers in California and so is her daughter, Isabella, who will join her in the fundraising event. Known as the “Original Diva of the Philippines”, Kuh has Kuh and Daughter Isabella: Singing “Diva”Kuh Ledesma been in the business for over will be joined by her daughter, Isabella in a fundraising three decades and after over 300 concert at the First Church of Nazarene in Pasadena on concerts has and has entertained May 08. her audience with her God-given talents. 6122; CCF (626) 356-1986 or log on to Her singing career began in her native www.kuhandisabella.eventbrite.com. Bacolod in the Philippines while still in Pateros Town Fiesta in Torrance college studying to be a nurse. She then On February 7 starting at 10 a.m. the went to join the scene in Manila with her Torrance Cultural Arts Center at Civic bandmates and formed the Music and Drive in Torrance will be a center of acMagic Band which became a pivotal point tivity for devotees of the saint who will in her singing career. come other parts of California to celebrate Unlike some performers who opt for the annual fiesta in her honor. Aside from smaller venues for their concerts which the traditional rites and other activities are easier to fill up, Kuh is partial to normally held in observance of fiestas, holding her shows at bigger venues in the other highlights have been included for the Philippines like the Cultural Center of the attendees like holding raffle draws where Philippines, Araneta Coliseum, PICC and winners could go home with cash prizes the Folk Arts Theater. and other goodies. Kuh who is known not only for her In the Philippines, the feast of St. Marexceptional singing talent but for her keen tha, the patron saint of mothers and wives, business sense will perform in a modest is widely celebrated in Pateros, but some venue for different reason this time– to be neighboring cities and town in Southern part of an opportunity to be involved in Luzon like Laguna, Rizal and Quezon call that later will translate in helping in join in the commemoration held on second noble undertakings that will transcend this Sunday of February. world’s limits. For particulars of the event, participants For more information about the concert, are asked to contact: Freddie Cruz (626) please call (818) 612-4500, (626) 226- 319 and Cecille Cruz (626) 319-2576.

Courtyard at Ventura Canyon Apartments offer the most value in the San Fernando Valley Panorama City February 1, 2015 – Thinking of renting an apartment? If you are looking for the newest, highest quality, largest and most livable rentals in the San Fernando Valley, look no further than Courtyard at Ventura Canyon, just down the street from Kaiser. According to building developer Stephen Ross, “Our new luxury apartments have been wildly successful with all kinds of renters. We’ve been open just 90 days and we have only 9 apartments left out of 50. Our extra large units are complemented with an outdoor lounge and courtyard that residents just love.” Additional features include a washer

and dryer in every unit, quartz kitchen counters, stainless steel microwave, dishwasher, stove and oven, and granite bathroom counters. All you need to move in is a toothbrush. There is a gym, a community BBQ, underground parking, secured intercom entry and that beautiful courtyard. You really need to see it to believe it. 2 bedroom units start at just $1,795 You can visit Ventura Canyon at 7851 Ventura Canyon Ave. in Panorama City. Models are open daily. For more information please call John at 818.836.1425, or visit www.sfvapts.com. Montage. Neighborhood Builders.

KFC PHL unleashes ‘Double Down Dog’ Manila, Philippines | AFP | Tuesday 2/3/2015 – Fastfood giant KFC in the Philippines has began selling a hotdog wrapped in fried chicken instead of bread and covered in cheese sauce to the horror of dieticians and amusement of social media users. The “Double Down Dog” seeks to exploit Filipinos’ love for hotdogs and fried chicken, KFC Philippines marketing director Errol Magdato said. “We know that Filipinos are very adventurous when it comes to food and we know how much we love hotdogs,” Magdato said in an email response to queries sent by AFP. He shrugged off the ridicule that has been heaped on the locally-developed product, saying that in terms of calories it was “basically the same or slightly less than” a double cheeseburger and that it has had good feedback from customers. KFC initially offered the ‘dog’ for two

days in late January with only 50 sold in select restaurants, but it has now become part of the menu. Vegan cook Marie Gonzalez, who runs a gourmet food company in Manila, described the Double Down Dog as “disgusting”. “An all-meat sandwich is just feeding the illnesses, gout, diabetes and heart disease out there. It’s sad that this is sort of a reflection of what the fastfood industry is,” Gonzales told AFP. There aren’t any plans to market the product outside the Philippines, but it has spread beyond the country’s borders on social media. “KFC debuts latest food travesty” said the news website Mashable, while the pop culture website Uproxx called it “KFC’s latest fast food abomination”. “Thank you, Satan for designing the Double Down Dog,” read one Twitter post.

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Conquering New York with love and flowers NEW YORK – “If I can make it there, I’ll make it anywhere...,” goes the song originally sung by Frank Sinatra that has since been sung by many, even in karaoke bars worldwide. But while others can only sing it, Filipino entrepreneur Dennis Josue is living it. “I am most proud of the fact that I am not only living here in New York; but also thriving,” he said in a recent interview at Fantasia Floral Design, a flower shop he owns and runs in the East Village. The city is often referred to as the “concrete jungle” - busy, bustling with selling something. They would see me and activity, intimidating and known for harsh a white person, they would approach the winters and the perceived I-don’t-care at- white person first, my staff, before me. titude of the people. But florist Josue, who They would ask me, ‘Where’s your boss?’ migrated from the Philippines in 1983, I would answer: ‘No comprende.’” cares; and with this Filipino trait of caring, Humor is how Josue combats stress and is able to conquer the urban complex with pressure; that and some physical activilove and flowers. ties – running and shopping. Most of all, “I love flowers! I love looking at them, he said he gets through it all, with the love working with them. They never complain and support from his husband. or talk back to you,” he joked. “They’re “I know I’m lucky, not just to live and very pleasant to see. Seeing them makes thrive in New York; but also to have marme happy.” ried a lovable husband,” Josue said. In the Philippines Josue graduated And what a wedding it was! Josue was from San Beda College with a degree in the first Filipino to marry right after gay Economics. But eager to pursue his passion marriage was allowed in New York State. for the performing arts, he also took classes He met his American husband, Dan, on a at the University of the Philippines School blind date set up by their dentist, in July of Dance, with a minor in voice training. 2008; the couple got married three years After graduation, encouraged by his sister later, a historic day not just for them; but who was already living in New York, Josue packed his bags and the dream to perform in one of the greatest cities on the planet. “I thought I could continue dance and see what’s in store for me. But then one thing led to another, which is working, and working, and working, and suddenly, I forgot about dance,” he said. The city hustle pulled him away from his dream, but brought him closer to his potential. He said that he was always fond of flowers, particularly dried flowers; but he never really thought of it much, until a friend asked him if he would like to apprentice in a flower shop. “Fantasia Floral Design was established 1986 by two Italian guys; and I took over the shop in 1994,” Josue said, adding that this opportunity to own a business has also enabled him to have a richer experience in life, meeting and interacting with famous accomplished personalities. “New York is a party town and New York is very well known for famous people. And it’s an honor for me to provide some of them with flowers,” he said. Among his clients include shops on Fifth Avenue; designer Josie Natori; and poet, writer and author Maya Angelou who recently passed away. “One thing that struck me when I met May Angelou was she’s a very, very educated woman. Very, very kind and very warm. Once you approached her, she always had this beautiful smile. Even though she always wore glasses, you could see her face light up,” said Josue who did Maya Angelou’s Christmas flowers every year since 1997 until 2012. Despite these experiences, however, Josue admits there have been nightmare moments, with challenging clients: “There are clients who will call for a meeting at 10 a.m. but will come out 30 minutes later; then will walk around their house/ space pointing at where they want the flowers. ‘This, there, here, and out there.’ I’m following around with my pen and paper, trying to jot down notes as fast they are dictating them. There’s just a lot of pressure. Normally, the work here is 80% pleasure and 20% is pressure. And I can’t answer back or go against clients. Customer is always right,” he said. “The main purpose of our business is to make everybody happy.” There’s also the challenge of racism in America. Admittedly, Josue said he’s a second, even third class citizen in his adopted country, and his brown complexion gives him away: “Somebody would come in the store, maybe a customer, or vendors

also for the State. “We were selected in a lottery, on the first day of New York State’s passing the gay marriage. A week before, there were about 2,800 couples who applied. I did, without expecting anything. Then I got a call saying I was selected to be part of the first day of gay marriage in New York State,” he said. “I believe it’s a right for me to be happy. I want to show people that gay people also have a right to be happy and be in a committed relationship. My family was very happy for me and the only thing they said to me is that as long as I’m happy, they are happy for me. The thing is that love conquers all.” And it does, perhaps with a bit of help from flowers, too. Together, love and flowers helped Dennis Josue to conquer New York. And since he’s made it there, he also shared some of the secrets to his joy: On his favorite flowers: “What season? I love the big sunflowers during the summer – different varieties – yellow center, bi-colored petals, etc. For fall, I love the fall hydrangeas because they’re very colorful; Winter, amaryllis. Spring, lilies of the valley, of course.” Though he’s experienced some racial prejudices, his thoughts on being Filipino and gay in New York: “As a gay man, I

have not experienced that (racism.) New York is very progressive. Being gay is not an issue in New York. The only questions is: ‘Can you deliver?’ And we do. Most of our clients are loyal to us because they like our work. I’m proud of that.” His advice for entrepreneurs and those wanting to start their own business: “If you set your heart in it and don’t think of it as a job; but rather something that you love to do, then that’s the key to success. Because when you start thinking about it as a task; as something you have to do everyday, then it becomes a challenge.” Josue added that for him, the most important thing in his life is his marriage. And whether it’s a heterosexual or a homosexual marriage, his advice to married couples or to those contemplating marriage: “Married life, it’s more of getting used to the fact that you have a partner. I got used to living alone. Now, that I’m living with somebody, I have to adjust. I think that’s what’s important in a marriage – adjustment. You have to be kind to one another. And always listen to each other.” From dancing and performing, to owning his business; from Manila to Manhattan, Josue looked back at his life thus far and said: “I have a full life and I am living it. No regrets, just gratitude.”

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Divorce and legal separation as a form of asset protection from your spouse’s creditors Couples have different spending habits and different philosophy in handling marital finances. Some spouses are conservative in managing their finances and stick with a budget while other spouses do not even set budgets. What is your exposure if your spouse is a shop-a-holic and runs though his/her credit card like there is no tomorrow? What if your spouse has a gambling problem and continues to get in debt to finance his/her gambling habits or what if your spouse has child support arrears from a previous relationship? To add insult to spouse has to make the difficult decision injury, what if you are the primary bread of filing for divorce and dissolving the winner in the family working two jobs at marriage or filing for legal separation as a the hospital while your spouse philanders means of self preservation and to preserve around for other prospects. whatever is left of the community estate Generally, the community estate is liable from total destruction from the debtor for a debt incurred by either spouse before spouse. Obtaining a divorce judgment or or during marriage and prior to separation. a legal separation judgment is also a way The liability accrues regardless of which to protect at least 50% of the community spouse has management and control of the property from the other spouse’s creditors property or whether one or both spouses provided the judgment effects an equal are parties to the debt or to a judgment for distribution of community property and the debt. Family Code § 910(a) and (b). the parties are actually separated in good The community estate are the property and faith. There would be less of an argument earnings accumulated during the marriage. from the other spouse’s creditors that the In other words, your entire community Divorce Judgment or Legal Separation property can be liable to creditors of your Judgment was obtained solely to avoid spouse for debts accumulated even prior to satisfying a judgment debt also known as marriage. The community estate liability is fraudulent transfer. Making this move is a not limited to debts incurred for the benefit personal decision that only the non-debtor of the community. Under Family Code § spouse can make. 910, the community may be liable even to Please note that this article is not legal debts incurred by one spouse exclusively advice and is not intended as legal advice. for his or her personal benefit. The article is intended to provide only However, where community property general, non-specific legal information. is used to satisfy child support arrears This article is not intended to cover all the arising from a previous marriage at a time issues related to the topic discussed. The where the spouse has separate property specific facts that apply to your matter may to satisfy it, the community has a right of make the outcome different than would be reimbursement from the debtor spouse’s anticipated by you. This article does create separate property up to the amount of com- any attorney client relationship between munity property used to satisfy the support you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. obligation. Reyes, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. What then is exempt from your spouse’s Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a premarital debt? A non debtor spouse’s Certified Family Law Specialist. He was “earnings” during marriage are not liable President of the Philippine American Bar for debts incurred by the other spouse be- Association. He is a member of both the fore marriage under Family Code § 911(a). Family law section and Immigration law This does not include income received section of the Los Angeles County Bar from passive investments through. The Association. He is a graduate of Southnon debtor spouse’s earnings cannot be western University Law School in Los garnished to satisfy the debtor spouse’s pre Angeles and California State University, marital debt as long as it is deposited in a San Bernardino School of Business Adminseparate account and not comingled with istration. He has extensive CPA experience other community property. prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF In addition, community liability for a KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 debt “incurred during marriage does not in- Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, clude “the period during which the spouses CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail are living separate and apart” before a kureyeslaw@gmail.com. For more info, dissolution or legal separation judgment. visit our website: kenreyeslaw.com. Family Code. § 910 (a) and (b). Debts incurred by either spouse after separation are the debtor spouse’s separate obligation, neither chargeable against nor reimbursable from the community estate. As a result, the community estate is not liable for debts accumulated by your spouse after your date of separation. So if your spouse continues abusing his/her credit card after the date of separation, the community assets such as savings during the marriage or real property are no longer liable for those debts accumulated after separation. Those post separation debts are the debtor spouse’s separate debt. A spouse’s separate property is not liable for the other spouse’s debts, no matter when they were incurred. Family Code. § 913(b)(1). Therefore, any savings or real estate that you accumulated prior to marriage will not be liable to your spouse’s debt whether your spouse incurred the debt prior, during, or after marriage. A spouse’s spending and financial irresponsibility is a common cause of marital break ups. Sometimes, the non debtor

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Illegal firing of employee with ADHD and depression leads to $1.6-M verdict Myra Becraft was a full-time staff psychiatrist for the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation in San Diego. The Daily Journal reports that Becraft sued her employer for wrongful termination based on disability discrimination. Becraft had requested her employer for accommodation brought on by her attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and major depressive disorder, which were medically cosmetic disfigurement, or anatomical loss documented. that affects the body and limits a major life Becraft alleged that the employer did activity, i.e., it makes the achievement of not engage in a good faith interactive the major life activity difficult (working is process, refused to accommodate her, and considered a major life activity). ultimately terminated her. The employer Physical disability also includes other argued that Becraft did not suffer from health impairment that requires special ADHD and she was not disabled. The education or related services; having a employer said it engaged in the interactive history of a disease, disorder, condition, process in good faith and that it offered cosmetic disfigurement, anatomical loss, or accommodations to the employee. health impairment which is known to the After trial, the jury issued a verdict in employer; and being perceived or treated favor of the employee, and awarded her by the employer as having any of these $1,624, 320 in total damages, including impairments. $413,420 for past lost earnings, $1,000,900 Mental disability means any mental for future lost earnings and $210,000 based or psychological disorder or condition, on emotional distress. The damages were such as mental retardation, organic brain reduced by the court to $1,414,320, to syndrome, emotional or mental illness, or eliminate the emotional distress award. specific learning disabilities, that limits The law prohibits employers from a major life activity, or having any other terminating an employee based on the mental or psychological disorder or conemployee’s disability or medical condition. dition that requires special education or The employer must in good faith deter- related services. An employee who has a mine whether a disabled employee can be history of a mental or psychological distransferred or reassigned to a vacant posi- order or condition which is known to the tion as reasonable accommodation. Under employer, or who is regarded or treated by California law, both physical disability and the employer as having a mental disorder mental disability are protected. Employees or condition, is also protected. with a “medical condition” are also entitled Wrongfully terminated employees who to accommodation. prevail in their case may be entitled to the Physical disability means any physi- following: reinstatement, back pay, loss ological disease, disorder, condition, of future earnings, damages for emotional

distress, punitive damages, and attorneys’ fees and costs in certain instances. [C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is trial attorney who has obtained several million dollar recoveries for his clients against insurance companies and employers. He has been selected as a Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, featured in the cover

of Los Angeles Daily Journal’s Verdicts and Settlements, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum. He is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center Washington, D.C. and the University of the Philippines. Visit his website at www.joesayaslaw.com or contact his office at (818) 291-0088 for a no-cost inquiry.]

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Can you settle credit card debts to avoid bankruptcy? Most people are unaware that credit card companies will negotiate with you if they believe that it is in their best interests to do so. Many times you can negotiate a reduction of your interest rate, elimination of late charges and annual membership fees. If you are delinquent in payments, they may even agree to settle for less than the full amount of your debt. The fact that the account is already in collections, a lawsuit has been filed or even if a judgment has been obtained doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even matter. If always costs more to obtain a new client a debt collector tells you that it is â&#x20AC;&#x153;their than to keep a current one. Thus, if you policy not to settle debtsâ&#x20AC;?, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t believe it. have been paying on time, you are in a It is simply not true. From my experience, good bargaining position to re-negotiate under the right conditions, all credit card the terms of your contract. companies settle. But what if you are behind in payments For example, a recent study revealed and can no longer pay the amount owed? that over half of credit cardholders who This is where debt settlement may be a called and complained about their interest good idea especially if you are trying to rates got an interest rate cut, resulting in avoid filing for bankruptcy. This doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as much as a 33% reduction. Now, why work in all situations but there are certainly would the credit card companies do this? a lot of scenarios where bankruptcy may Well, you have to understand that the credit be avoided and debts can be settled using card companies are in a very competitive the least amount of money possible. It is a market. These companies know that it known fact in the collection business that

as time goes on, the ability to collect on a debt diminishes. Thus, the longer your accounts have been in collections, the better your chance of settling your debts for a significantly reduced amount. For example, it is my experience that creditors will settle for about 30-60 cents on the dollar. What debts can be negotiated? Actually, debt settlement is possible not only for credit cards but for almost all types of debts. The list includes medical bills, bounced checks, personal loans, department store cards, auto repossession deficiencies, etc. Lately, I have even seen junior mortgage holders (example: 2nd trust deed on your home) settle for as low as 10-20% of the amount owed during or after foreclosure. Debt settlement works best in situations where the debtor has the ability to produce enough cash to settle for 30-60% of the amount owed. The reason is that creditors are often only willing to settle for less than full amount only if you pay them in a lump sum as opposed to paying in installments. Possible sources of cash? Perhaps you can

sell personal property that you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need, borrow cash from a relative or maybe take money out of your 401K plan. If, on the other hand, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a lot of cash available, do not lose hope. So long as you are employed or have some source of income, creditors may still agree to monthly payments over a reasonable period of time. The terms can be negotiated and will vary with each creditor. If you are currently in financial hot water and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what to do, we can help you figure out what is appropriate for your situation. For more information and to schedule a free consultation, please call Toll-Free 1-888-752-8211. I have offices in Pasadena, Cerritos and Valencia. (None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped over 5,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-888-752-8211).

PURISIMA

DNA sample from confirmed by the US Federal Bureau of Investigation. In an earlier televised speech, Aquino admitted to knowing about the Mamasapano operation, but did not say who ultimately gave the go signal to the SAF. A Board of Inquiry has already been formed by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) to look into possible operational lapses in the operation. The MILF is also investigating the incident. The Department of Justice, upon Aquinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s orders, is looking into the possibility of filing charges against those responsible for the deadly encounter. Following the incident, the Senate sus-

pended its deliberations on the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law, which seeks to embody the peace deal signed by the Philippine government and the MILF last year. In early December last year, the Office of the Ombudsman ordered a six-month preventive suspension on Purisima over an allegedly questionable contract the PNP entered into with a courier service, to make sure he would not influence the outcome of the investigation into the deal. The complaint that triggered the Ombudsman probe on Purisima and the other officials alleged that the respondents entered into a contract with courier service WERFAST Documentary Agency in 2011.

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that he tapped Purisima to explain the â&#x20AC;&#x153;intricaciesâ&#x20AC;? of the plan to arrest Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Hir, also known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Commander Marwan,â&#x20AC;? which ultimately led to the deadly clash. Existing law, however, bars a public officer who is under investigation over administrative or criminal offenses from resigning. Section 12 of the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act stipulates that â&#x20AC;&#x153;No public officer shall be allowed to resign or retire pending an investigation, criminal or administrative, or pending a prosecution

against him, for any offense under this Act or under the provisions of the Revised Penal Code on bribery.â&#x20AC;? Purisima was appointed in December 2012. On January 25, 44 PNP-SAF members were killed and 12 others were wounded during a firefight with MILF and BIFF forces. The MILF, which has an existing peace agreement with the government, said 17 of its fighters perished in the encounter. The SAF members supposedly entered an MILF-controlled area to arrest Filipino bomb maker Abdulbasit Usman and Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan, who government authorities said was killed in the operation and whose

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How to pick your mortgage broker Is there a difference between a bank loan officer and a mortgage broker? Nowadays, bank loan officers don’t have a generalize rates, meaning if you call a major bank loan officer in one branch for a loan quote, you could possibly shop the same bank but different branch and get a different price quote? Why is that, loan officers are driven by sales commissions and sales quota, does not matter if it’s the largest bank you are talking to, all loan officers will price your rates and fees slightly different, so make sure you do your homework and shop your best rates website to check on brokers licenses : and fees. Also, some lenders seems to be mortgage.nationwidelicensingsystem.org/ All brokers are supposed to offer taking an average of two full months to close on a loan, check time lines and rate advice and a recommendation. Becommitments prior to applying for a loan. ware of a mortgage broker who claims If you are looking for a mortgage, you only to offer information. This may may have been advised that it’s better to be to forestall potential complaints. go through a mortgage broker. This seems • Be extremely wary of a broker who to make sense. After all the broker works encourages you to bend the truth in order with mortgages all the time. So of course to get the mortgage you want. It’s part of the broker knows more than you. Brokers the mortgage broker’s job to make sure are experts, aren’t they? Especially now, you get a mortgage which you can afford mortgage brokers have to have a license and which is right for your circumstances. called NMLS which some banks don’t • Some mortgage brokers will tell you require their loan agents to have, therefore that they are “Direct Lenders” when they speaking to a educated and well trained only in fact mortgage bankers or brokers. loan officer or broker is critical to your next Direct lenders now a days to me does not 30 days process to closing on a home loan. mean a thing, it really only means the direct This is generally true. But it doesn’t mean lending company is funding the loan under that you have to accept everything the bro- their name temporarily. Sooner than later ker says, or be completely uncritical. There all loans are sold in the secondary market are some things you need to look out for. ( Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac ) and then • At one time just about anyone could set your servicers ( Most major banks ) will up as a mortgage broker. Now brokers have take over. A mortgage broker who works on a to be regulated by the NMLS (Nationwide Mortgage Licensing System) go to their commission basis may seem cheaper. But

3 PINOYS From page 1

said they had been kidnapped along with four other foreigners. “The Philippine embassy in Libya are monitoring the situation and coordinating closely with Sogepi... in ensuring their well-being and safe return,” the ministry said on its website. Hakim Maazzab, head of security at a nearby oil complex, said the victims all “had their throats slit apart from one Libyan, who was shot dead”. And Zwei said the unidentified assailants looted the facility, making off with vehicles and supplies. A spokesman for the guards at Libya’s oil installations, Ali alHassi, accused jihadists loyal to the Islamic State group (IS) of carrying out the attack, without providing details. Al-Mabruk sits

some 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of the coastal city of Sirte, the hometown of slain dictator Moamer Kadhafi. Since Kadhafi’s overthrow in a NATO-backed revolt in 2011, Sirte has become a stronghold of extremists, including Ansar al-Sharia, which is blacklisted by the United Nations and Washington for its links to Al-Qaeda. There was no production from the Al-Mabruk field at the time of the attack because of restricted export capacity at terminals on the coast. The North African nation has been wracked by conflict for the past four years, with rival governments and powerful militias now battling for control of key cities and the country’s oil riches.

MARWAN KILLED From page 1

gual, American-trained engineer who is believed to have hidden amongst Muslim rebels in the southern Philippines since 2003. The military and police say he had instructed local militants on the manufacture and use of improvised explosive devices. Local security experts also say he is thought to have married the Filipina widow of Khadaffy Janjalani – the slain former leader of the Abu Sayyaf militant group which is blamed for the country’s deadliest terror attacks – cementing his ties to local extremists. Asked about the US report, Philippine police chief Leonardo Espina said the government will make a statement on the issue shortly. In a televised national address after the chaotic Mindanao operation, Aquino said Zulkifli and Filipino JI fugitive Abdul

Basit Usman had been selling their bombmaking expertise to other extremists. “They have injured and killed many people, and they continue to threaten the safety of our citizens as long as they roam free,” Aquino said, as he sought to calm growing outrage over the security forces’ single largest battlefield loss in recent memory. Espina said his men, who were part of a nearly 400-strong police commando force, were ambushed by rebels including members of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, which signed a peace agreement with Manila last year. The elite police unit has been attempting to capture or kill Zulkifli since December 2010, previously staging seven unsuccessful attempts, their former commander Getulio Napenas told reporters on Wednesday.

SHADOWY FORCES From page 1

arrest against Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Hir alias Marwan who is Malaysian and Filipino bomb-maker and Abu Sayyaf member Basit Usman. In light of all these, Trillanes asked the public to be more discerning. “Dapat makita ng tao na ginagatungan

ang issue. Bakit mo paaalisin si PNoy (Aquino’s nickname)? Definitely may lapses, pero his heart is in the right place. Hindi siya magnanakaw. Itong gumagatong maaaring gusto nilang ma-divert ‘yung issue, mag-take advantage ng situation para makapwesto agad. Dapat maging discerning tayo,” he said. (MNS)

LOS ANGELES can you really be sure that the broker is recommending the product that is best for you, rather than being swayed by the commission? Of course most brokers are honest and genuine. And they are actually bound by their professional code to give the advice that is in the client’s best interests. But if this is a worry for you, choose one that operates on a fee basis. • If you do use a mortgage broker who operates on a fee basis, avoid one who expects you to pay the bill before completion of the transaction. This can cause problems if things change or break down later on. Check at the beginning when the broker expects the fee to be paid. Experience mortgage brokers are a big help they can source out different lenders to find a suitable financing package for you. Make sure you not only feel comfortable but confident that your mortgage broker can deliver and close your loan on time. Buying a house now will be a great focus

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for this years due to the Real Estate market showing traction. With Rates at all time lows, I don’t see renters paying enormous amounts of money to landlords much longer. Always remember you are the customer. Don’t let yourself be over-awed by the broker’s expertise. A good mortgage broker will always be happy for you to check everything and ensure that everything is being done in your best interests. Most important advise for you to follow, get all the fee and rate quotes in writing and make them guarantee it. Check companies online by googling them for complaints, specially once that advertise a lot. Ken Go a mortgage Broker for 28 years and have gone thru market ups and down, will have a lot of experience to share with you and knowledge to lead you to the right direction in home financing. For more help or inquiries, call Ken Go at (562) 697-7028 or write to kennethgo@ verizon.net NMLS #238636.

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OPINION

Espina to MILF: Lack of coordination not an excuse to kill my men

MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) – Do not use lack of coordination as an excuse for the killing of the 44 police commandos. This was the strong message of Philippine National Police (PNP) officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina to the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), which is blamed for the deaths of the elite PNP-SAF personnel in the encounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao on January 25. “Ipagpalagay na hindi nag-coordinate sa kanila, mga criminal naman yung tinutugis, bakit kailangan nilang paputukan ang mga pulis natin? Bakit kailangan nilang tumulong sa BIFF (Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters)...Hanggang ngayon ‘yan ang katanungan ko,” Espina said before the members of the House ad hoc committee on the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL) and members of the media on Wednesday. Espina appeared before the House committee to assure its members that his office will be submitting a report on the Mamasapano incident on February 9. On Monday night, committee chairman, Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, gave an ultimatum to the PNP, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), the Office of the Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process (OPAPP) and the local government of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) until February 9 to submit to the committee their respective reports on the Mamasapano incident. Failure to do so, Rodriguez said, would prompt him to suspend deliberations on the BBL. During his meeting with the committee members, Espina also called on the MILF combatants to surrender the firearms and other belongings of the fallen policemen. “Pakiusap ko lang sa MILF, isauli ninyo ang mga gamit namin, ‘that’s ours. Pinatay niyo na ang mga tao namin, huwag niyo nang dagdagan,” Espina said. The PNP OIC said he has been receiving unconfirmed reports that the MILF combatants are now trying to sell the firearms taken from the slain policemen for P1.5 million. On January 25, policemen belonging to the PNP’s elite unit, Speacial Action Force (SAF) had a day-long firefight against members the MILF and BIFF in Mamasapano town in Maguindanao. The incident led to the deaths of 44 SAF members, while 12 others were left injured. The MILF announced that 17 of their fighters died in the clash. The government had earlier called the incident a “misencounter” as the MILF and the BIFF were not the intended targets of the police force, but Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Hir, alias Marwan and foreign-trained Filipino bomb maker Abdul Basit Usman who is believed to be a high-ranking leader of the Abu Sayyaf group. The MILF, meanwhile said that they acted in self-defense as it was the SAF men who fired first at them. (MNS)

Roxas wants Purisima, Ochoa out

You just cannot sit down and talk with President Noynoy these days. His close associates in Malacañang said the President is “depressed.” The President did not even attend the annual awarding ceremonies of the Ten Outstanding Young Men of the Philippines (TOYM). He, instead sent Secretary Almendras to give the awards. I think President Noynoy is more scared of the prospect of being unseated as President amid calls for his ouster rather than being depressed on what happened in the Masasapano massacre . Civil society groups and several church leaders are supporting calls for President Noynoy to step down, Even the families of the 44 police commandos slaughtered by Muslim rebels in Masasapano, Maguindanao, said they will join groups to march in the streets to demand the resignation of President Noynoy. It was reported that President Noynoy was given a “cold treatment” by families of the slain cops and by some PNP officers when he attended the necrological services at the SAF headquarters in Taguig city. At least two families refused to acknowledge the presence of the President and even refused to receive the medals being awarded to their slain husbands from the President. I cannot blame these grieving families. The President never showed compassion, humility and sorrow during the necrological services for the fallen soldiers. The President even arrived late, they said. Most probably, President Noynoy attended another inauguration party from a car manufacturing firm. Calls for President Noynoy to step down have snowballed in the wake of public outrage and grief over the sad fate of the slain policemen. Active and retired military and police officers and their men have also joined the clamor for the President to quit. Retired General Edilberto Adan, Chairman and President of the Association of Generals and Flag officers (AGFO), said that there appears to be an apparent restiveness among several members of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and also in the Philippine National Police (PNP) due to the President’s poor handling of the Masasapano incident. Adan told news reporters that some active and retired officers and their men are eager and willing to come out in the open and make their presence felt in support of the ouster call. He said AGFO members are demanding for a swift and independent investigation on the massacre. Batangas Archbishop Ramon Arguelles said President Noynoy should step down. He urged the people to go out on the streets to demand his

immediate resignation. Zamboanga Archbishop Romeo de la Cruz echoed the same sentiment. He said he is asking President Noynoy to resign because he is not competent enough to run the affairs of the government. Over in Malacañang, the President’s trusted men are doing their best to save his “head on the chopping block.” Although it is very clear by now that he and suspended PNP Chief General Alan Purisima were the only responsible parties involved in the botched police operation in the Masasapano massacre. Until now, President Noynoy is refusing to the answer questions from the media on the extent of his knowledge and participation he and suspended PNP Chief Purisima had on “Operation Wolverine.” The “operation wolverine” was hatched by General Purisima, with the approval of President Noynoy, to capture Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli Bin Hir, alias “Marwan.” The U.S. government has offered a $ 5million bounty for his capture. The FBI said DNA samples apparently confirmed that Marwan was indeed killed, though. Meanwhile, it was reported in the news that a seething Interior Secretary Mar Roxas stormed into the office of President Noynoy to demand the firing of Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa and General Purisima. As expected, President Noynoy turned down the demand of Roxas and refused to take any actions. An agitated Roxas reportedly warned President Noynoy that if he fails to take any action against Purisima and Ochoa as a result of the Masasapano massacre, it would trigger his downfall. Roxas is said to be demanding for the firing of both Purisima and Ochoa to avoid public perception that the government will “whitewash” the ongoing investigation of the massacre. He reportedly told the President to fire both men to placate the families of the slain policemen who are hurting and grieving and to show that the government is since and doing something and that justice is served. Sources said that Roxas even banged the door when he walked out of the President’s office. Maybe within the next few days, I expect Roxas to tender his irrevocable resignation to Aquino. I wouldn’t blame him. He has been biting the bullet for a long time for Aquino. If this happens, this could really be a bad sign for the Aquino presidency. This could be the start of his downfall. Let us all wait and see.

Aquino gets silent treatment from SAF troops with low morale MANILA, Feb 4 (Mabuhay) – After meeting with families of slain police commandos last Friday, President Benigno Aquino spoke to members of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) and even asked them to air their grievances following the bloody encounter in Mamasapano, Maguindanao. The President was, however, met only with silence by the SAF troops, who lost 44 of its members in an encounter with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) and its breakaway group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF) last week. SAF members appeared somber while Aquino spoke, some even seen looking at the ground while the President delivered his speech. “Sigurado kayo? Baka nagkakahiyaan tayo rito. Hindi tayo dapat magkahiyaan. Hindi tayo magkakaunawaan kung magkikimkim tayo,” Aquino said after none of the SAF members in front of him accepted his invitation to speak up about the bloody incident. After getting a silent treatment, Aquino, the military and the police’s commander-in-chief, just encouraged members to put their grievances into writing, or course them through their superiors. “Kung gusto niyo, mas madaling isulat, isulat ninyo. Kung gusto niyong ipadaan sa mga opisyal ninyo, idaan niyo sa mga opisyal ninyo,” he said.

The President also pledged to uplift the morale of the SAF troops. “Committed ako. Siyempre, low morale tayo lahat dito. Ibabalik natin ang morale. Itataas natin ulit yung lahat ng paniniwala natin sa sarili at kumpyansa sa sarili. Asahan niyo, kasama niyo ako roon,” he said. On January 25, 44 PNP-SAF members were killed and 12 were wounded in a firefight after they supposedly entered an MILF-controlled area in Mamasapano town. The SAF members were out to arrest Filipino bomb maker Abdulbasit Usman and Jemaah Islamiyah leader Zulkifli bin Hir – also known as “Commander Marwan.” Government and security officials earlier said Marwan was most likely killed in the Mamasapano operation, although this information still needs to be confirmed. Last week, Aquino admitted to knowing about the Mamasapano operation, also he did not categorically say who gave the go signal to the SAF members. Last Sunday, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas, who has direct supervision over the PNP, also conducted a dialogue with SAF members. The police commandos spoke freely during the event, with one SAF member was saying that the Philippines “is not worth dying for” if the government could not even protect its troops. (MNS)

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LOS ANGELES

Weekend, Sat. - Fri., February 7 - 13, 2015

Reunions: Precious moments to treasure Nowadays in our busy lives, we look forward to reunions with old friends, classmates, officemates where we reminisce the cherished memories of our youth. This writer’s inner circle of old friends include elementary and high school classmates, her for her impertinence, she was the reasorority sisters and fraternity brothers in son why I requested my mother to have college, and former officemates in various me transferred to another school. When I left the school, we’ve learned that this public and private organizations. On our elementary and high school re- particular teacher was reprimanded by the unions, we reminisce the different ways of principal for her mean behavior toward getting to and from school such as: school her students. College reunions are mostly fun bebus, public and private transportation or we laugh at the various teaching methods cause in my particular case, it includes of our teachers.. Some are nice, funny and a whole batch of 26 sorority sisters and friendly, while others were strict, prin- fraternity brothers, who all at one time cipled and sometimes petty. Our class had were the “invincible” group ready to “take its share of petty teachers, especially those on the world.” We tend to reminisce all the crazy and who went out of their way above the norm. I remembered this one particular nun funny incidents during our initiation or teacher who singled me out only because pledge rites as well as group campus acI had long braided hair and she decided tivities such as: lantern parades, hayrides, to cut my hair in front of the class. That Arbor Days, or political rallies we joined in embarrassment never left me and to this as a group. We bonded as one and it is this day, though my mother and I had forgiven “bond” that has kept us together through

UP Upsilon Sigma Phi Fraternity and West Coast Sigma Delta Phi Sorority’s joint Christmas Party last year at the scenic Castaway Restaurant in Burbank, California.

the years until the present time. Office reunions tend to be social in nature as most of these occur as a result of one’s employment or professional status at the time. Those who attend office reunions tend to recall funny incidents at work, such as employer-related encounters, funny incidents with co-employees or office gossip

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at the time. Every chance I get to be invited to a reunion, I usually go to see old friends, people you grew up with or people at one time or another mattered in your life. Take every chance to attend these. Life is flitting and before you know it, all of us will be gone, but those memories will live forever.

Photo taken at the recent reunion with high school classmates from St. Joseph’s College, Quezon City.

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Weekend, Sat. - Fri., February 7 - 13, 2015

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Paris haute couture: Atelier Versace beauty (Relaxnews) – Season after season, head-to-toe all-out glamour is what Donatella Versace does best. The SS15 Haute Couture show on Sunday night in Paris was more proof of this. Shortly before the runway show, in social media posts the designer enthused about the brilliance of her seamstresses, before revealing the show’s hair and make-up via a stunning close-up shot of one model on Facebook. The eyes of Eva Herzigova, Amber

Heard and Jourdan Dunn, to name a few, were highlighted with intense electric blue and black eye shadow, set off with swirling liner art on the upper lids and brow bone along with white liner on the lower inner rims of the eyelids, echoing the contrasting palette of the haute couture collection with its jet black tailored jumpsuits and long ultra bright white gowns. Make-up artist Pat McGrath and hairstylist Guido Palau respected the “revealed and concealed” theme running through the

collection to a tee. Together the famous runway stylists worked standout eyes versus natural skin and low-key hair. Models’ tresses were either swept into a simple up-do to show off “the anatomy of the neck,” as emphasized by dresses featuring jewelry-like neckpieces; or free-flowing, side-swept or center-parted hair, mirroring Donatella’s timeless style. Lengths were left au naturel, leaving the curls and curves to the haute couture creations.

High drama electric blue eyes at Atelier Versace, created by make-up artist Pat McGrath ©AFP Photo / Miguel Medina

Musical training in youth keeps brain functioning longer: study (Relaxnews) – Learning how to play an instrument prior to age 14 and sticking with it for at least 10 years could preserve cognitive skills such as speech listening in old age, according to a new Canadian study from the Rotman Research Institute (RRI). Seniors who fit this description of musical experience were 20 percent faster when identifying speech sounds than their non-musical counterparts, according to the study, which was published in the Journal of Neuroscience. “Musical activities are an engaging form of cognitive brain training and we are now seeing robust evidence of brain plasticity from musical training not just in younger brains, but in older brains too,” says lead author Gavin Bidelman, at the time a post-doctoral fellow at the RRI and who is now an assistant professor at the University of Memphis. Dr. Bidelman and his team used electroencephalography (EEG) imaging to assess how well their participants—a group of 20 healthy adults between the ages of 55 and 75 -- could classify or identify speech.

Among the participants, half qualified as being musicians according to the study’s standards and the other half did not. In a controlled laboratory setting, they put on headphones and were asked to listen to and identify random speech sounds that ranged from simple, single vowel sounds of “ooo” and “ahhh” to ambiguous, mixed sounds that were more difficult to recognize. Because EEG technology offers ultraprecise measurements of the timing of the brain’s electrical activity in response to external stimuli, the researchers say they have strong evidence of the cognitive preservation musical training affords. The study is the most recent of many that make the case for the brain benefits of musical training, particularly if it starts during youth. While cognitive advantages are most frequently cited, researchers in Vermont recently published a study suggesting that musical training could be more effective than medication for children with psychological disorders.

Learning an instrument and sticking with it can help you later in life, according to a new study. ©xavier gallego morell/shutterstock.com

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ENTERTAINMENT

John Lloyd still a Kapamilya Actor John Lloyd Cruz ended speculations that he is moving to another network when he renewed his contract with ABSCBN. Cruz signed a three-year contract with the network, which was represented by ABS-CBN president and CEO Charo Santos-Concio. The actor also doused speculations that he had problems with ABS-CBN. “Wala namang isyu talaga to begin with. Nagsabi ako before na hindi tumagal ang prosesong ito because nakikipag-deal ako sa iba. Actually sinabi ko din ‘yun sa mga boss ko, hindi po ganoon. Talagang medyo detalyado lang ang kontrata,” Cruz said in an interview. Cruz admitted that he found the contract negotiations a “humbling” experience. “You are talking about Charo SantosConcio giving you advice on how to stay in the business, on how to work around it. Parang ‘di lahat nabibigyan ng ganoong oppurtunity. I say humbling because parang kahit na anong goal na mayroon ka,

kahit anong dream mayroon ka, hindi mo siya magagawang mag-isa,” Cruz said. “So, malaking bagay na kinukuha ka pa din, pinagkakatiwalaan ka pa din. To actually place your trust sa mga taong nagtitiwala sa iyo ay malaking bagay,” he added. According to Cruz, the contract includes both TV and movie projects. “Ang daming exciting na proyektong nasa paligid ko, nakaka-excite,” he said. Asked if this includes movies with Sarah Geronimo and Bea Alonzo, Cruz said he has learned to be more cautious when discussing future projects. “Alam mo, sa experience din natin, iingatan mo din ang excitement ng fans. Madalas may mababanggit tayo, maghihintay, tapos wala naman pala,” he said. “Ito, parang sinasabi ko lang ay overview ng pwedeng mangyari in the next three years.” Currently, Cruz is part of the weekly sitcom “Home Sweetie Home” with Toni Gonzaga. (MNS)

Get Free Tickets to see Gary V at Pechanga Theater If you are interested in seeing Gary V live at Pechanga Resort & Casino, then perhaps this is your lucky day. Pechanga Resort & Casino announced a raffle contest, which will give away a pair of tickets to see Gary V at the Pechanga Theater on March 8 at 7 p.m. The raffle contest will begin on February 7 and will be ongoing until the 17th of February. Entry forms can be submitted via email at advertising@balita.com and put GARY V as subject. Your entry form should contain your complete name, age and phone number. Applicants must be over 18 years old and must also be California residents with a valid form of identification. Contestants will be asked to answer the two (2) trivia questions about GARY V. If the participant submits the correct answer, their names will be entered in the raffle drawing to win tickets for themselves and a lucky guest of their choice. 1. What is Gary V’s first single? 2. Gary V is also known as Mr. Pure ________? To join this raffle competition, please visit one of the following websites: www. usasianpost.com and www.balita.com OR get a copy of Weekend Balita and The US Asian Post newspapers. Your job is to answer the trivia questions and send your answers via email. You will be entered into the February 18, 10 AM drawing at the Balita Media, Inc. office in Glendale, CA. The winners of the contest will be contacted via phone or email immediately after the raffle drawing. The winners will be able to claim their tickets through Will-Call at the Pechanga Theater on March 8. Lastly, winners will be announced in Balita Media’s weekly publications – Weekend Balita and The US Asian Post. Again, Pechanga Resort & Casino and Balita Media would like to sincerely wish you good luck in the upcoming raffle contest; hopefully, we’ll see you soon at the renowned Pechanga Theater. Come and experience it all at Pechanga Resort and Casino. Located at 45000 Pechanga Parkway, Temecula, California 92592. For more information, call 1-877711-2946 or visit www.Pechanga.com.

Marc, Rovilson to host ‘Asia’s Got Talent’ Marc Nelson and Rovilson Fernandez have been chosen to host “Asia’s Got Talent,” the first regional edition of the “Got Talent” franchise. Fernandez made the announcement on Instagram on Friday, saying that “Asia’s Got Talent” will feature Spice Girl Melanie C, former F4 member Vanness Wu, singer

Anggun, and international composer David Foster as judges. Nelson said he feels privileged to be part of the show. “Asia’s Got Talent” will be aired on AXN starting this March, according to the cable channel’s website. The show is the 63rd edition of the “Got Talent” franchise. (MNS)

Why Edgar Allan Guzman joined ABS-CBN Aware of the competition that he will face by joining the star-studded talent pool of ABS-CBN, actor Edgar Allan Guzman said his decision to be a Kapamilya is the right step in bringing his career to another level. The award-winning indie actor said it has always been his dream to be part of the Kapamilya network. “Bilang isang actor, gusto ko pong iexplore ‘yung passion ko sa pag acting. Mahal na mahal ko po ‘yung pag acting and gusto ho magkaroon ng growth as an actor. And matagal ko na pong gustong lumipat at ngayon na nakalipat na ako, it

is a dream come true po,” he said. Guzman, who has drawn comparisons to Coco Martin, is part of the ongoing feel-good drama “Oh My G!,” which stars teen actress and singer Janella Salvador. The 25-year-old is also set to appear for the fourth time on the country’s longest-running drama anthology, “Maalala Mo Kaya,” alongside veteran actor Nonie Buencamino and Shamaine Centenera. When asked on why he seemed to be a favorite casting choice of the series, he shrugged and said that he was puzzled himself.

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COMMUNITY Politicians debate vaccines as US faces measles outbreak By Jean-Louis Santini

Washington, United States | AFP | Tuesday 2/3/2015 – US President Barack Obama and American health authorities appealed to the public to vaccinate their children as the country faces an outbreak of measles due to some parents believing vaccines against deadly diseases are dangerous. Considered eradicated from the US in 2000, measles re-emerged in December in an outbreak clustered around the Disneyland amusement park in California. Since then, 102 cases of measles have been reported in 14 states according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “We are very concerned by the growing number of people who are susceptible to measles and the possibility that we could have a large outbreak in this country as a result,” head of the CDC Tom Frieden said over the weekend while encouraging parents to vaccinate their children. Measles causes fever and rash and in severe cases can lead to pneumonia or brain swelling. The disease is highly contagious because it is transmitted through the air. The United States had 644 cases of measles in 2014, a record number since 2000. There were 173 cases in 2013. The resurgence of the disease in the US coincides with a movement of some parents refusing to vaccinate their children. Many people who don’t vaccinate their

children say they fear a triple vaccine for measles, mumps and rubella is responsible for increasing cases of autism – a theory repeatedly disproven by various studies. Other people refuse vaccination on religious or political grounds. The controversy dates back to the publication of a now debunked article in the Lancet medical journal in 1998. The media has been heavily criticized for republishing information in the report that was withdrawn in 2010. Beliefs unfounded Numerous scientific studies have clearly shown there is no link between vaccines and autism or other health risks. In 2014, the parents of 79 percent of unvaccinated children asked authorities of their state to be exempt from immunization on the basis of their beliefs, said Anne Schuchat, head of immunization at the CDC. President Obama tried to convince skeptical parents to ignore unfounded beliefs about vaccines as concerns over the outbreak grow. “I understand that there are families that, in some cases, are concerned about the effect of vaccinations. The science is, you know, pretty indisputable. We have looked at this again and again. There is every reason to get vaccinated, but there are not reasons to not,” Obama said Sunday. The issue of vaccinations has stirred up the country’s political scene, particularly among potential Republican candidates

for the 2016 presidential election. The issue presents challenges for the politicians who do not want to alienate the ultra-conservative electorate who sometimes reject the vaccine. When asked about the issue, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, a moderate Republican, said it was important for parents to have “some measure of choice.” His press office later issued a statement saying children should be vaccinated for the disease. “While I think it’s a good idea to take the vaccine, I think that is a personal deci-

sion for individuals,” said Senator Rand Paul, a doctor and leader among the Tea Party, a more conservative movement. On the other hand, Speaker of the House or Representatives, Republican John Boehner was very clear on the issue: “I do believe that all children ought to be vaccinated.” The same message was echoed by Republican Senator Marco Rubio: “There is absolutely no medical science or data whatsoever that links those vaccinations to onset of autism or anything of that nature,” he said.

Los Angeles County to host used oil and filter recycling event in East LA According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, recycling oil helps sustain nonrenewable resources, conserves energy, and saves money. Recycling just two gallons of used oil can generate enough electricity to run the average household for almost 24 hours. To assist in this effort, LA County Public Works will host a free used motor oil and oil filter recycling event on Saturday, February 7, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m, at O’Reilly Auto Parts, located at 722 South Atlantic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90022. People who recycle oil filters will receive one new oil filter. In addition, free used oil containers, shop towels, and funnels will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Items for drop-off should be prepared by placing oil filters in sealed plastic bags and storing used motor oil in leak-proof containers. Used oil should not be mixed with any other liquid, including water. Used motor oil and oil filters also can be recycled for free at a local certified collection center or on weekends at a County-sponsored Household Hazardous Waste/ Electronic Waste collection event. A full calendar of collection events and list of collection centers can be found at www.CleanLA.com. For additional information on the County’s oil and oil filter recycling program, call Edna Gandarilla, Program Manager, at (626) 458-6536.

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DOT in partnership with China Airlines and GTT International holds By Manny V. Ilagan, PDOT-Los Angeles

MANILA – A guided Fam Tour recently conducted jointly by the Philippine Department of Tourism’s United States offices, China Airlines and GTT International/Majestic Vacations focused the spotlight on tourism destinations in both Taiwan and the Philippines. The Fam Tour, the first of its kind that showcased destinations in two countries, was held January 24 to 30, 2015 in line with the Department of Tourism’s marketing campaign to promote the Philippines as part of a twin destination tour packages or an extension vacation destination to other Asian countries. The joint Familiarization Tour, which is participated by Chinese-American, Vietnamese and some Filipino-American travel agents, is seen as an excellent way of increasing the tour operators’ product/ destination knowledge to effectively promote, market and sell the Philippines to both individual and group travelers looking for destinations that cater to all kinds of travelers. The Fam Tour further aims to establish a long-term and stable professional relationships with the tour participants to exchange ideas and learn what mainstream American travelers are looking for in a travel destination and understand better the trends in travel of the North American market. The Fam Tour was headed by respective DOT representatives from Los Angeles,

Manny Ilagan, and MItchelle Dy from New York. Ms. Depi Cheng, meanwhile, represented China Airlines and Ms. Eliza Chung from Los Angeles and Ms. Leni Chavez from Chicago represented GTT International/Majestic Vacations. The first leg of the Fam Tour took the participants to Taipei, where they were treated to an early sojourn to Taipei’s famous “Hot Spring Spa” on the day they arrived, in cooperation with the Taiwan Tourism Board. The following two days in Taipei were spent in a whirlwind of activities that took the participants to a historical trip to the Memorial Hall, Lungshan Temple, the Martyrs’ Shrine, the National Palace Museum; a cultural and geological excursion to Yehliu Geo Park, the Queen’s Head, Chiufen Village and Nanya Rock formations; plus an exciting shopping exploration to Taipei’s famous Ximenting Shopping Area, Ningxia Night Market and a visit to the famous Taipei 101 Observatory. Meanwhile, the Philippine’s Tourism Promotions Board hosted the second leg of the Fam Tour and took the attendees to Manila and then onward to Palawan. Participants spent three-days, two nights at Puerto Princesa, where they explored the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, which was recently declared as one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Other highlights include a tour of Puerto Princesa’s historical, natural and cultural destinations, as well as a unique gastro-

GAPASCA to award 12 scholarships in Gapan CERRITOS – Officers of the Gapan City Association of Southern California (GAPASCA), under the leadership of Nimfa Garces Castro, chairman of the board of directors, will travel to their hometown of Gapan City, Nueva Ecija in March to award scholarships to 12 high school graduates of Class 2015. The awarding of the scholarship will be held on March 7 at the Gapan City Auditorium and will also be attended Nueva Ecija ranking officials, Gapan City Department of Education Superintendent Dr. Estellita Cunanan and principals from all of Gapan City high schools. GAPASCA received 36 applications, and after a thorough evaluation of each application, the following students will be the first recipients of these scholarships: Daincy Pearl C. Mariano, Divina Pastora College, Accounting; Ryza Mae Noval, Kapalangan National H.S., Education; Shara Mae Valleser, Pambuan National H.S., Accounting; Angel Velayo, Maruhat National H.S., Hotel & Restaurant Management; Apryl Paras, San Nicolas National H.S., Accounting; Carlo Buenaventura, San Roque National H.S., Biology – Medicine; Harold John Marcelo,

Sta. Cruz National H.S., Civil Engineering; Leonard de la Cruz, Herminio G. Nicolas H.S., Accounting; Yusela Kris Aquino, JRLMHS, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology; Mary Joy Calpito, JRLMHS, Journalism; Mary Jane Pablo, JRLMHS, Agribusiness; Liliane Suarez, JRLMHS, Psychology/Broadcast Communication. Scholarship Incentive Awards will also be handed out to the other 24 applicants in recognition of their academic achievements and who put forth their time and effort in applying to be a GAPASCA scholar. The scholarship fund comes from generous Adopt-A-Student benefactors, donors and through GAPASCA fund-raising events. Please visit GAPASCA’s website www.gapasca.org to learn more about its programs. “It is the hope of GAPASCA that these scholarships will inspire all Gapanense students to excel in school, academically and socially,” said Nimfa Castro, who is also chair of GAPASCA’s Scholarship Program Committee. The other members of the Scholarship Program Committee are Tipin Tinawin Johnson, vice chair; Larry Camus, Jing Liwag and Germalie Morales, members.

GAPASCA Scholarship Committee member Germalie Morales introduced the scholarship program to the principals of the Gapan City high schools in September 2014.

Photos above show Philippine Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim from Los Angeles, Manny V. Ilagan, Tourism Director-OIC, PDOT-Los Angeles, Depi Cheng of China Airlines, and Eliza Chung of GTT International/Majestic Vacations with the participants of the DOT-China AirlinesGTT International Fam Tour to the Philippines.

nomic experience courtesy of one of the popular restaurants in the city that serves exotic and one-of-a-kind dishes such as “crocodile sisig”. An island hopping tour and a picnic on the island capped the participants’ stay in Palawan. With travelers wanting real and authentic immersion experiences, the DOT-China Airlines-GTT International Fam Tour’s customized itinerary aimed to provide the Fam Tour travel agent/participants a first hand experience of what Taiwan and the Philippines have to offer to the traveling market, as well as find new

ways to develop and create new tourism activities to stimulate the flow of visitors from the North American travel market to Asian destinations such as Taiwan and the Philippines. In addition, the Fam Tour affords the travel agent participants new resources and tools for promoting tourism products and services in both countries. Partner hoteliers include Marriott Hotels of the Resorts World Manila group in Manila, Hotel Inter-Continental Hotel Manila, and Sheridan Beach Resort & Spa in Palawan.

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WANTED CAREGIVERS Live-in / live-out, PT/FT. Driving is advantage. San Fernando Valley & LA. Text or leave a message. (818) 534-7866.

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FOOD & DINING FAMILY FEATURES

very parent has been there. It’s Thursday afternoon and the kids are asking, “What’s for dinner?” Searching for inspiration, you head to the refrigerator, only to realize that the groceries you bought on Sunday have run out or spoiled. But before the panic sets in and you reach for the takeout menus, remember that the solution for a wholesome, homemade meal is right in your pantry — or “Cantry.” “With a well-stocked pantry full of canned ingredients, I know I always have the makings of a nutritious and flavorful meal,” said Kelsey Nixon, host of “Kelsey’s Essentials” on Cooking Channel and Food Network. “Fruits and vegetables are harvested at their peak of ripeness and canned in just hours, making the can one of the best ways to get food from its source to my family’s table. I just open up a can, unlock that flavor and goodness and make it a ‘Cantry’ Thursday night!” With canned food staples like canned beans, chicken, green beans and broth on hand, you’ll be well on your way to savory meals like Quinoa Chicken Vegetable Salad and Nixon’s Pasta e Fagioli Soup. For more information about the canning process, delicious recipes and to learn how you can get cooking with canned foods, visit CansGetYouCooking.com.

Pasta e Fagioli Soup Recipe created by Kelsey Nixon Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 25 minutes Servings: 4 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 4 ounces chopped pancetta (about 1/2 cup) 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped 3 cloves garlic, minced 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper 2 (15-ounce) cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced fire-roasted tomatoes 3 (14.5-ounce) cans chicken broth 1 1/2 cups ditalini pasta (short tubular pasta) 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish In large heavy-bottomed pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown pancetta bits just until they start to crisp before adding onion, garlic and thyme. Season with salt and pepper, and saute until fragrant and golden brown. Add canned beans, tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring soup to rapid boil before adding pasta. Reduce to simmer and cook soup covered, stirring occasionally for 8–10 minutes

or until pasta is cooked al dente. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving. Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve with crusty bread. Note: You can substitute bacon for pancetta, if desired.

Pea and Corn Risotto Servings: 4 4 cups canned low sodium chicken broth 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 1 small onion, diced

1 cup Arborio rice 1 (11-ounce) can no salt added whole-kernel corn, drained 1 (8.5-ounce) can low sodium peas, drained 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese 1 tablespoon butter Salt and ground black pepper, to taste In 2-quart saucepan over high heat, heat chicken broth to simmering; keep warm. Meanwhile, in 3-quart saucepan over medium heat, in hot olive oil, cook onion until tender-crisp, stirring occasionally. Add rice and cook for 2 minutes until coated with oil. Gradually add chicken broth, 1/2 cup at a time, until absorbed, stirring frequently. Continue adding remaining broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring occasionally, cooking rice until al dente, about 25 minutes. Stir in corn, peas, Parmesan cheese and butter to heat through. Add salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Almond Cherry Tres Leches Cake Recipe created by Kelsey Nixon Servings: 12 Cake: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened 1 cup granulated sugar 5 large eggs 1/2 teaspoon almond extract 1 (14.5-ounce) can pitted cherries,

Quinoa Chicken Vegetable Salad Prep time: 5 minutes Cook time: 10 minutes Servings: 6 1 (14.5-ounce) can chicken broth 1 cup quinoa 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained 1 (10-ounce) can chicken breast, drained and flaked 1 (8-ounce) can cut green beans, drained 1 (8.75-ounce) can corn, drained 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper In medium saucepan over high heat, heat chicken broth and quinoa to boiling. Cover and simmer, stirring occasionally, about 10 minutes. Set aside to cool. In large bowl, combine cooled quinoa, diced tomatoes, chicken breast, green beans, corn, olive oil, lemon juice, parsley and pepper; toss to mix well.

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2015 Honda Fit, CR-V named ‘Best Resale Value’ vehicles by KBB.com T O R RANCE, Calif., Jan 23, 2015 – Honda has received two Best Resale Value Awards from trusted vehicle valuation source Kelley Blue B o o k w w w. kbb.com. The 2015 Honda Fit (automobiles. honda.com/fit/) earned the top award in its segment for projected resale value after five years of ownership. Additionally, the 2015 Honda CR-V (automobiles.honda. com/cr-v/) was honored as one of the

overall ll Top 10 Best Resale l Value l vehicles hi l in America. 2015 Honda Vehicles Honored with Kelley Blue Book Best Resale Value Awards 2015 Honda Fit – Best Resale Value: Subcompact Car 2015 Honda CR-V – Best Resale Value: Top 10

Nissan Murano named “Best New/ Redesigned Midsize Crossover” in Kiplinger’s 2015 Best Value Awards Nissan vehicle, come down N A S H V I L L E , to Nissan Mission Hills and Tenn. – Kiplinger’s Personal check out our kababayan Finance has named the 2015 Manuel Lava of Nissan Nissan Murano the “Best Mission Hills. So what are New/Redesigned Midsize you waiting for? Schedule Crossover” in the publicaa Test drive on the vehicle tion’s annual 2015 Best Value of your choice at Nissan of Awards – a comprehensive Mission Hills. Call Manuel review that “reveals the best at 1-888-588-7635 and test values on the newest models.” drive a Nissan vehicle toThe Murano, which hit dealerday! Nissan of Mission ships in December, received Hills is located at 11000 the accolade yesterday afterManuel Lava of Nissan of Sepulveda Blvd., Mission noon at the 2015 Washington Mission Hills Hills, CA 91345. Auto Show. Each year, Kiplinger’s editors review hundreds of vehicles to determine the top winners in a variety of categories ranked by price, performance, value, safety, roominess and driving impressions. The all-new Murano and other Best Value Awards winners will be featured in Kiplinger’s annual buyer’s guide, “Deals on New Wheels,” available on newsstands Feb. 10. “Nissan essentially created the crossover segment with the debut of the Murano in 2002, and now, 13 years later, the 2015 Nissan Murano is helping define the segment once again,” said Dan Mohnke, vice president, Nissan Chief Marketing Manager & Marketing Operations. “The redesigned Murano was created to provide drivers with an undeniable sense of comfort, style and innovation and this award certainly reaffirms that ideal. It’s an honor to be recognized by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance.” The all-new third-generation Murano features concept car-like styling, premium interior and advanced, purposeful technology. The breakthrough exterior design projects a sense of refined intensity, creating an immediate “wow” response, with a low 0.31 Cd drag coefficient. The breakthrough exterior design carries into the interior, which offers an engaging social lounge feel through features such as the refined instrument panel, low center console, advanced NASA-inspired Zero Gravity front and outboard rear seating, and the airy atmosphere created by the large windows and oversized Power Panoramic Moonroof. Every 2015 Murano comes with a standard 260-horsepower 3.5-liter DOHC V6 connected to an advanced Xtronic transmission. Fuel economy has increased 20 percent (over the previous generation) for combined mpg and is rated at 21/28/24 mpg city/highway/ combined for both front-wheel and all-wheel drive models. If you have been desiring to own a new

“The small h Fit i iis a premium i ll car with iha healthy appetite for passengers and cargo, representing tremendous value well beyond its exterior footprint,” said David Hendley, assistant vice president of sales at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “It’s great to see the all-new Fit, our brand’s entry model, join the much-honored CR-V among KBB.com’s Best Resale Value Award winners this year.” Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide. These prestigious awards honor vehicles expected to maintain the greatest proportion of their original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) after five years of ownership. Since depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car buyer’s primary expense during ownership, these awards are designed to help consumers make more informed carbuying decisions. “It’s fun to hustle around, especially when its updated engine is mated to its new six-speed manual. It’s pulled off adding more rear seat and cargo area – all while decreasing its overall footprint. And it’s available with more options and safety

The ffeatures than h ever bbefore. f h Fit i iis still ill very much go, and it’s a 2015 AUTOMOBILE All-Star as a result.” This win for the 2015 Fit marks the 20th time a Honda has been named an AUTOMOBILE All-Star since the award’s inception in 1990. Past Honda All-Stars, in addition to the Fit, include the Civic, Element, Prelude, Odyssey, Accord and Ridgeline. Although a Honda is a Honda wherever you see one, Filipinos flock to Carson Honda because of the friendly Filipino staff at the dealership and of course because of the service our kababayans provide. One of them, Rohmer Manalese, has even earned the “Best in Customer Satisfaction,” an honor he keeps consistently, along with the three other Filipino sales staff in the persons of Ricky Agagas, Terzo Pallen and Christian Reyes, all of whom are veterans in the car sales industry. “We have a great staff and this is a great dealership,” Carson Honda General Manager Krisztian Kratky said. “We have a friendly atmosphere.” Carson Honda is located at 1435 E. 223rd Street, Carson, CA 90745. They can be reached toll free at 1-800503-2321.

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Subaru brand earns top honors in Kelley Blue Book 2015 Best Resale Value Awards Subaru earns Best Resale Value Brand and Three Vehicle Segment Awards for 2015 Cherry Hill, N.J. - January 23, 2015 – Kelley Blue Book, the leading provider of new and used vehicle information, has announced that Subaru has won its prestigious 2015 Best Resale Value Brand Award. In addition, Subaru has an impressive three models that have won 2015 Best Resale Value Awards in their respective categories: Compact Car Category: 2015 Subaru Impreza Sporty Compact Car Category: 2015 Subaru WRX Mid-Size Car Category: 2015 Subaru Legacy The Best Resale Value Awards recognize 2015 model-year vehicles for their projected retained value through the initial five-year ownership period.

Since depreciation (or loss of value) is typically a car-buyer’s primary expense during ownership, these awards, like all of KBB.com’s new- and used-vehicle information, are designed to help consumers make more informed car-buying decisions. “We are proud to receive 2015 Best Resale Value Brand recognition, as well as multiple segment honors from Kelley Blue Book’s analysts,” said Thomas J. Doll, president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. “These awards

underscore the inherent value in Subaru vehicles, value that stems from our classleading safety, reliability and durability.” Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale Value Awards are in their 13th year and are based on projections from the Kelley Blue Book Official Residual Value Guide. Kelley Blue Book Residual Values are established by experienced automotive analysts that review statistical models built upon millions of transactions. Vehicles that earn the highest five-year

residual values, expressed as a percentage of their original Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), are selected for these prestigious awards. Low-volume vehicles and vehicles with an MSRP of more than $60,000 are excluded from award consideration, except in the plug-in vehicle, luxury and highperformance categories. For more information about Kelley Blue Book’s Best Resale ValueAwards, please visit http://www.kbb.com/new-cars/best-resalevalue-awards/ or become a new member of the Subaru club, all you have to do is to come on down to Subaru Glendale and our kababayans Christian Marilla and Glenn Bergado will be more than happy to inform you why Subaru is becoming a favorite of Filipinos and the whole American market. Subaru of Glendale is located at 1308 S Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91204. You can reach them at 1-855-230-1547 or you can visit their website at www.subaruofglendale. net.

Forgotten treasure of rare cars goes on auction in France By Jean-François Guyot

Paris, France | AFP | Wednesday 2/4/2015 – A treasure trove of extremely rare classic cars, discovered on a farm in western France last year after lying forgotten for almost 50 years, is expected to fetch 16 million euros ($18 million) at auction on Friday. The cars, described as “sleeping beauties” by the Artcurial auction house, will be sold in the state they were found, some rusted and weather-beaten, having been kept in makeshift shelters exposed to the elements. The 60 classic gems, bearing legendary names like Bugatti, Hispano-Suiza, Talbot-Lago, Panhard-Levassor, Maserati, Ferrari, Delahaye and Delage have been described by Artcurial as “works of art.” Among them is one of only 37 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spiders ever made, valued at up to 12 million euros, which was discovered under a pile of dusty old car magazines. The once-in-a-lifetime discovery, announced in December, was likened by Artcurial managing director Mat-

thieu Lamoure to stumbling upon the car world’s equivalent of the tomb of Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun. Metallic graveyard Lamoure and senior specialist Pierre Novikoff got a tip-off about the timeworn fleet while criss-crossing the country hunting for rare pieces. On the farm – Artcurial is keeping the exact location secret – they found a hodge-podge of makeshift structures, describing shock aftershock as they realised the treasures they contained. “This was somewhere between a metallic graveyard and a museum,” said Novikoff, describing valuable cars invaded by ivy, and in some cases corrugated iron resting directly on the cars. “We were overcome with emotion. Probably much like Lord Carrington and Howard Carter, on being the first for centuries to enter Tutankhamun’s tomb,” said Lamoure. The rare California Spider – a car which features 13 times on the list of the 100 most expensive cars ever sold – was bought new by French actor Gerard Blain and later sold to fellow actor Alain

Delon. Delon was photographed with American actresses Jane Fonda and Shirley MacLaine in the car, which historians thought was lost forever. Also uncovered is an extravagant Talbot Lago T26 Cabriolet that belonged to Egypt’s last monarch King Farouk, an immensely rich ruler known for grotesque extravagance, and avid collector who along with fast cars amassed one of the world’s most famous coin collections. “This is surely the last time that such a discovery will be made, anywhere in the world. What is so special here is the number of cars, the range and the quality and pedigree of the models,” said Novikoff. But how did such a jackpot of mythical automobiles end up on a rural French farm, left to rust for half a century? While classic cars are now snapped up and extremely valuable, this was not the case a few decades ago when inventor and automobile enthusiast Roger Baillon became one of the first collectors. He had a transport business in the west of France where he in 1947 designed and

built his own car known as the Bluebird, all while raking in a fortune in the post WWII boom in the sector. He bought the property in 1953 to turn into an automobile museum, snapping up classic cars – some saved from the scrapyard – and according to Lamoure, even bought a little train which he planned to use to give tours of his museum. “When the vehicles arrived he put them away without much fuss, one next to the other. He restored some and left others as they were,” said Novikoff. Much of the collection was built up between 1955 and 1965. But when the 70s swung in, Baillon’s business went into decline, and he held a large sale of his car collection at the end of the decade and to car historians, that was the end of that. But it turned out he had clung on to many of the collection’s jewels. “This is a very rare opportunity presenting works of art unknown to the market! For the Talbot Lago T26 Grand Sport coupe Saoutchik, caved in at the rear, I think it should be left in this condition. It is a sculpture.”

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Toyota to create turbulence with sporty Camry and Corolla Special Editions CHICAGO, (Feb. 5, 2015) – Winds of change will be blowing into the Chicago Auto Show. Toyota’s Camry mid-size sedan, the best-selling car in America for the past 13 years, and Corolla compact sedan, the world’s best-selling car of all time, will debut special edition models at next week’s Chicago Auto Show. The debuts will be part of a press conference that will also feature a refreshed Avalon sedan. Camry Special Edition When redesigning the Camry for 2015, Toyota went bumper to bumper and floor to roof, changing or re-engineering nearly 2,000 parts. Only the roof remained unchanged, and it capped off the boldest Camry ever. Now, only one year after this major redesign, America’s best-selling car will offer the 2016 Camry Special Edition for owner’s looking for an extra dose of both aggressiveness and technology. Based on the youthful Camry SE, the limited production Camry will add sporty interior and exterior features. In addition to features

found on the Camry SE, standard equipment on the Special Edition will include: Unique 18-inch alloy wheels with machined face contrasted with gloss black painted accents Power tilt/slide moonroof Smoked tail lamp treatment High contrast blue stitching on the seats, shift boot, and dash Exclusive sport appearance seats trimmed with black SofTex bolsters and blue patterned inserts Sport meter cluster with blue details and

white background Entune Audio Plus Available Entune Premium Audio with Navigation and App Suite Smart Key with Pushbutton Start Qi Wireless Charging Two exterior colors: Blizzard Pearl and new Blue Streak Metallic Floor mats with logo and unique exterior badge The Camry Special Edition will be powered by a 2.5-liter fourcylinder engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Like all Toyota vehicles, the Camry Special Edition will come standard with the Star Safety System. Production of the Camry Special Edition will be limited to approximately 12,000 units and will run from August 2015 to January 2016. The iconic Toyota Corolla is the world’s best-selling name plate of all-time with over 40 million sold since 1966. With its all-new 11th generation introduced in 2014, the current Corolla is the

roomiest and most fuel-efficient ever. Corolla will add more driving excitement with the launch of the 2016 Corolla Special Edition. Sporty styling features, inside and out, complement a spirited driving experience made possible with steering wheel paddle shifters, rear disc brakes and Sport Driving Mode along with an array of additional standard features. Based on the sporty Corolla S Plus grade, the 2016 Corolla Special Edition will turn heads as it adds: For those who have decided to get a Toyota or get a new one to replace the old, but still reliable one, check out the new Toyota models or buy one now by visit our friends and kababayans at Toyota of Glendale. Toyota of Glendale has Edwin Yu and Liza Avizado, both of whom can help you get into a new Prius or any other Toyota vehicle of your choice. Toyota of Glendale is located at 1260 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale CA 91204. You can reach them toll free at 1- 866- 522-5154.

Nissan announces U.S. pricing for 2015 Sentra NASHVILLE – Nissan has announced pricing for the 2015 Sentra, which is on sale now at Nissan dealers nationwide The highly successful seventh-generation Sentra, introduced in fall 2012, continues to be refined for the 2015 model year with a number of interior comfort and convenience enhancements – all which add value to an already outstanding array of standard and available features and equipment. “For 2015, the Sentra lineup has been simplified and we’ve added value to all grades,” said Derrick Hatami, vice president, Sales - U.S., Nissan North America, Inc. “The Sentra’s most popular trim, the SV, now comes standard with great features

The entry-level Sentra S grade adds standard USB connection port, Bluetooth Hands-free Phone System, illuminated steering wheel audio controls, Smart Auto Headlights and cruise control. (From left) Filipino Sales Professionals Augusto Montemayor The popular SV grade and Marifie Alipio and Internet Director Cristina Madlangbayan now includes Nissan Inof Nissan of Van Nuys. telligent Key, RearView such as RearView Monitor, Bluetooth, Monitor, NissanConUSB port that we are certain Sentra buyers nectSM with Mobile Apps, 5.0-inch will enjoy. SV also includes Nissan Intelli- color display, SiriusXM® Satellite Radio gent Key®, which our primary competitors (SiriusXM subscription required, sold do not offer at this price point.” separately), sliding front armrest, Stream-

ing Audio via Bluetooth, Hands-free Text Messaging Assistant, leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, Smart Auto Headlights and Easy-Fill Tire Alert. If you want to find out more about Nissan Sentra, Murano, Altima, Rogue or Nissan Quest, get in touch with our kababayans Cristina Madlangbayan, Augusto Montemayor and Mariefe Alipio of Nissan of Van Nuys, each of whom are experts in helping customers choose the best Nissan vehicle for their use. You may reach them on their mobile phones at 818-943-5471 (for Augusto) and 818442-1983 (for Marie). Nissan of Van Nuys is located at 5425 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA 91401.

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419

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**Available only to qualified customers at participating authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (where applicable to advertised lease) through March 2, 2015. Advertised lease rate based on a gross capitalized cost of $43,027. Includes destination charge and Premium 1 Package. Excludes title, taxes, registration, license fees, insurance, dealer prep. and additional options. Total monthly payments equal $15,084. Cash due at signing includes $3,499 capitalized cost reduction, $795 Acquisition fee, and first month’s lease payment of $419. Total due at signing $4,713. Total payments equal $19,378. At lease end, lessee pays for any amounts due under the lease, any official fees and taxes related to the scheduled termination, excess wear and use plus $0.25/mile over 30,000 miles, and $595 vehicle turn-in fee. Subject to credit approval. No security deposit required. Offer expires 3.2.15.

***Available only to qualified customers at participating authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services (where applicable to advertised lease) through March 2, 2015. Advertised lease rate based on a gross capitalized cost of $55,106. Includes Destination Charge and Premium 1 Package. Excludes title, taxes, registration, license fees, insurance, dealer prep. and additional options. Total monthly payments equal $20,844. Cash due at signing includes $3,699 capitalized cost reduction, $795 Acquisition fee, and first month’s lease payment of $579. Total due at signing $5,073. Total payments equal $25,338. At lease end, lessee pays for any amounts due under the lease, any official fees and taxes related to the scheduled termination, excess wear and use plus $0.25/mile over 22,500 miles, and $595 vehicle turn-in fee. Subject to credit approval. No security deposit required. Offer expires 3.2.15.

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All prices are Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP). MSRP excludes destination and handling charges, tax, title, license and options. 10.99% APR for up to 36 months applies to Mercedes-Benz model year 2011, 2012 and 2013 Certified Pre-Owned C, E, S, GLK, M and GL-Class vehicles. Excludes leases and balloon contracts. Available only at participating authorized Mercedes-Benz dealers. Subject to credit approval by Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. Qualified customers only. Not everyone will qualify. Minimum finance term applies. See Mercedes-Benz of Long Beach for complete details. 22 month Payment Credit up to $900 applies to 2011, 2012, and 2013 Certified Pre-Owned C-Class and GLK-Class vehicles. 2 month Payment Credit up to $1,200 applies to 2011, 2012, and 2013 Certified Pre-Owned M-Class and E-Class vehicles. 2 month Payment Credit up to $2,000 applies to 2011, 2012, and 2013 Certified Pre-Owned GL-Class and S-Class vehicles. Vehicles must be financed through Mercedes-Benz Financial Services. 3Complimentary Pre-Paid Maintenance contract available on select Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned C, E, S, GLK, M and GL-Class vehicles. Excludes AMG models. Must take delivery of vehicle between January 3, 2015 and March 2, 2015. See your authorized Mercedes-Benz dealer for complete details on Pre-Paid Maintenance. 4Certified Pre-Owned limited warranty coverage for one (1) year (and no mileage maximum) from expiration date of the original 4-year / 50,000 mile Mercedes-Benz new vehicle limited warranty. If the new vehicle limited warranty has expired, Certified Pre-Owned limited warranty coverage is for one (1) year from the date of purchase, with no mileage maximum. Offers expire close of business 3.2.15.