Weekend balita january 3, 2015 by Balita Media Inc

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5 things Kris Aquino learned in year 2014 See KRIS AQUINO page 22

VOL. XXII, NO. 48

JANUARY 3 - 9, 2015

DMV starts issuing driver’s license to undocumented

More than 50 dead in flooding and landslides Manila, Philippines | AFP | Thursday 1/1/2015 – Tropical storm Jiangmi exited the Philippines Thursday, leaving at least 54 dead and 13 missing from floods and landslides as officials admitted that more extensive warnings could have saved more lives. The storm’s death toll was nearly triple that of the last major storm – Super Typhoon Hagupit, which hit the Philippines last month and wreaked less havoc than expected thanks to timely precautionary

New law effective beginning Jan 2, 2015

See LANDSLIDES, page 12

Pinoy says wife who was on ill-fated AirAsia flight had premonition MANILA, Dec 31 (Mabuhay) – A poem posted on social media by one of the passengers of the ill-fated AirAsia Flight QZ8501 days before the flight could’ve been a premonition of the tragedy that awaited them midair, the victim’s husband said Wednesday. See PREMONITION, page 12

THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FILIPINO-AMERICANS

Filipino-American high school senior Gabrielle Current waves to Rose Parade spectators as a member of the 2015 Tournament of Roses Royal Court. Photo: Nimfa U. Rueda (Story on page 3)

Los Angeles, United States | AFP | Friday 1/2/2015 – California began issuing driver’s licenses Friday to people who are in the country illegally, becoming the 10th state in the nation to do so. Thanks to a 2013 law approved by Governor Jerry Brown, anyone who can show they are California residents—such as through bills or rental agreements—can now apply for a license, regardless of immigration status. Opponents fear the law will encourage immigrants to come to the United States, and worry some might use false names to register for a license, thereby creating national security concerns. Advocates say it means more drivers will get car insurance and will make the roads safer. Until now, immigrants in California without legal authorization risked heavy

fines or vehicle seizures for driving without a license. Many do anyway, as much of the huge West Coast state lacks comprehensive public transit. California has the largest undocumented immigrant population in the United States, about 2.45 million. They must still provide proof of identity, such as a passport. The state’s Department of Motor Vehicles expects some 1.4 million people to request a license. DMV director Jean Shiomoto said the law would “increase safety on California roads by putting licensed drivers behind the steering wheel.” As DMV offices opened early Friday, hundreds of people lined up to be among the first to request a license under the new rules. Miguel Pineda, 37, has been driving illegally for 15 years and was among those See LICENSE, page 12

Hundreds injured in PHL New Year revelry Manila, Philippines | AFP | Thursday 1/1/2015 – Firecrackers and gunfire during New Year revelry in the Philippines left 354 people injured, with more than a dozen requiring amputations including a five-year-old boy, the top health official said Thursday. The annual tide of injuries during New Year celebrations dropped to the lowest in five years, with 351 people hurt by fireworks and three hit by stray bullets in the last few days of 2014, said Health Secretary Janette Garin.

However the number of people who had to undergo amputations shot up to 14 from eight last year, she said, adding that a five-year-old boy lost his hand. Garin said the health department’s campaign against indiscriminate fireworks and the passage of tropical storm Jiangmi, which brought heavy rains to the central and southern islands, had brought down the injury toll. She said the department would continue to monitor hospitals for more injuries or deaths that might See FIREWORKS, page 12

Spectators watch as fireworks light the sky during New Year celebrations outside the Philippine Arena in Bocaue, Bulacan.

Dingdong Dantes, Marian Rivera officially married

President Benigno S. Aquino III poses with newlyweds Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera, who tied the knot at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cubao, Quezon City Tuesday December 30, 2014. (MNS photo)

MANILA, Dec 31 (Mabuhay) – AFTER years of waiting, Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera finally tied the knot on Tuesday. Dubbed as the “Royal Wedding,” the ceremony took place at the Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Cubao, Quezon City and was witnessed by hundreds of guests led by President Benigno Aquino III. Marian, who wore a

custom made Michael Cinco off-the-shoulder bridal gown and studded Christian Louboutin shoes, was led to the altar by her parents, Francisco Gracia and Amalia Rivera. Gracia flew to Manila two days ago from Madrid, Spain to personally walk her daughter down the aisle and witness the wedding. Dingdong, who donned a cream-colored Randy See DINGDONG, page 12

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Discharge debt this New Year and reestablish credit Banks and credit card companies have told us how important it is to maintain our credit, honor our obligations, pay on time, but what if we suddenly can’t pay on time, then what? What if I lose my job, and can’t pay anyone right now, where does that put me? The answers may surprise you: Q: My wife recently lost her job. My income goes to food and rent. We haven’t paid our credit cards for two months, and have been sent to collection, and or get letters from attorneys who threaten to 13 lets you amortize the mortgage arrearages, and in most cases, discharge sue us. What can we do? A: That depends on how long you unsecured debt at the same time. By think it will take for your wife to find discharging unsecured debt, your ability a job, how much you owe, and whether to service the mortgage is improved, and your creditors sue you and garnish your hopefully, you can stay in your home. Sample questions on Chapter 13. wages. Generally speaking, if payments to Q: Can I make lower house payyour credit card debts are more than 30% of your take home pay, you are in trouble. ments if I file a Chapter 13 repayment In this case, you may want to consider plan? A: If you have a second mortgage, we bankruptcy as an option. Q: Will filing for bankruptcy ruin might be able to strip that off the property. As far as the first mortgage is concerned, my credit forever? A: No, in fact it might even make an you may also be eligible for one of several instant improvement, particularly if you loan modification plans that we work cannot pay your bills. If you cannot make with. If you are not eligible for a loan ends meet, your debt to income ratio is modification, you must make the regular too high. At that point your prospects of scheduled payments. However, the delingetting more credit is zero. A bankruptcy quent portion can be spread out over three cures the debt to income problem, dis- years at a nominal interest rate. Q: What does a Chapter 13 do to my charging debt and leaving income. This gives you access to a number of credit credit card debts? A: That depends on your income level. card and other lenders who literally target people with bankruptcy discharges. See For most people, their unsecured debt, like credit card debts would be wiped out. next question! Q: Will anyone issue me with a This in turn helps to pay the mortgage credit card, when I have a bankruptcy arrears. Q: Can a Chapter 13 stop lenders on my report? A: Yes, there are many creditors who repossessing my automobile? A: Yes, it will stop the repossession, specialize in doing business with bankruptcy debtors. They are usually secured and your monthly payments can be lowcreditors that offer auto financing, mort- ered, based on the depreciated value of gages and secured credit cards. Their the automobile. Q: Can a Chapter 13 help me with main motivation is money - they want to charge you a little extra, and there is no debts to the IRS or student loans? A: A Chapter 13 can be very helpful real risk involved. After bankruptcy, you cannot file again for eight years. You have with debts that are not dischargeable in a no other debts, a good debt to income ra- regular Chapter 7. These types of debts tio, and can afford to service the new loan. can only be discharged if they are past Q: How long does it take to get unse- their respective statute of limitations. A cured credit at the same cost as before chapter 13 will allow you to pay these debts over a period of time, and limit my bankruptcy? A: Anywhere between 30 days and six future interest accruing on the debt. Q: What’s the main difference bemonths. We checked out several programs available. Some offer secured visa cards. tween Chapter 13 and Chapter 7? A: Chapter 7 will discharge all unseThat is where the line of credit is secured by a savings deposit. Another program we cured debts, but does not resolve problooked in to, offers an unsecured line of lems associated with arrears on secured credit of up to $5,000 to shop at their cata- debts. (Such as late payments on the logue store. Generally, most department mortgage) Q: I filed Chapter 7 last year, can I stores will reestablish your credit after six months to a year of good payment history file Chapter 13 now? A: Yes. Although Chapter 7 bars you with another bank. Mortgage lenders consider applicants based on fico scores. from re-filing again for eight years, a There are programs available, starting at Chapter 13 can be filed every three years. Q: I own a house together with my about 560 fico. Building your fico score is not difficult, if planned methodically, brother. We want to file a Chapter 13 and a secured credit card is a good way to stop a foreclosure, do we both have to file? to start. A: No, only one of you need file, BANKRUPTCY OPTIONS Admittedly, most people filing bank- preferable the party that owes the most ruptcy, file under Chapter 7, (The real in unsecured debt, and thereby has the bankruptcy) that discharges all unsecured most to gain. Q: I have no equity in my home. I debt. However, there are people with problems that are best resolved through just want to stay here as long as posChapter 13, the debt consolidation pro- sible. What can be done to stop a trust gram. Chapter 13 is used primarily by deed sale and prolong my occupancy? A: Contact your lawyer to discuss all those who either have problems with secured debt, and want to keep the col- options available to you. FREE CONSULTATION – BUT ACT lateral, or perhaps, have plenty of assets, but no liquid cash, and want to avoid a NOW! Need advice on a financial problem? creditor imposed liquidation. Most Chapter 13’s are filed by people Don’t let creditors intimidate you. For who are late on their mortgage, and immediate compassionate help, call the want to avoid losing their home through Law Offices of Paul M. Allen. Two offices to serve you: Glendale foreclosure and trust deed sale. Since the mortgage is a secured debt, you have only and La Palma Consultations are free, but two choices, pay the debt or give up the it is by appointment only. Call now at house, but there is help - since Chapter 818-552-4500.

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Fil-Am teen shines in Rose Parade By Nimfa U. Rueda

PASADENA – Wearing the Rose Princess crown, a Filipino-American teenager yesterday waved to hundreds of thousands of spectators lining the route of the spectacular 126th Tournament of Roses Parade in Pasadena. “I’m very proud to represent the Filipino-American community,” said Gabrielle Current, one of the seven young women selected to serve as ambassadors for the Rose Parade and Rose Bowl events viewed by tens of millions around the world on New Year’s Day. Current, 17, was selected from nearly a thousand young women who competed for a spot in the 2015 Tournament of Roses Royal Court. “It feels amazing to be a part of this magnificent event,” she said. The parade featured marching bands, equestrians and flower-covered floats highlighting historic figures, celebrities and popular culture around the theme “Inspiring Stories.” A riderless horse represented grand marshal Louis Zamperini, a World War II hero and former Olympian, who died in July. Zamperini is the subject of a bestselling book and the movie “Unbroken,” directed by Angelina Jolie and now in theaters. Cast members from “The Love Boat” rode on a Princess Cruises float, one of the 39 floats that paraded down the five-anda-half-mile path on Colorado Boulevard. After the parade, Current and the rest of the Royal Court were presented at the Rose Bowl, where more than 90,000 watched the college football playoff featuring Oregon and Florida State. The Rose Parade is watched by an

estimated 56 million TV viewers across the US and 28 million from 174 countries around the world. An estimated 17 million viewers switch to ESPN afterward to catch the Rose Bowl game. Dream come true Current recalls watching the Rose Parade for the first time when she was about six years old and being enthralled by the Rose Princesses. “I knew then I wanted to be a part of this beautiful event,” she said. More than just a dream-come-true, being a Rose Princess has also been a source of pride for Current as a member of the Pasadena community. “It’s an honor for me to able to serve my community, where I grew up,” said Current, who spent the three months leading up to the New Year’s Day parade attending 125 events as a Tournament ambassador. It’s a grueling schedule for any teen, and when added to Current’s commitments as a senior at Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy – an all-girls Catholic high school – a student leader and an aspiring musical artist, it can get overwhelming. “At one point, I wasn’t sure if I could handle it all, so my family and I prayed about it,” she said. “We left it in God’s hands.” Current said she is also very grateful for the support of her mother Kathy CastilloCurrent, a former beauty queen, and her father Jerry, who was the very first Mr. Asia-USA. The members of the Royal Court were chosen based on a number of criteria, including poise, personality, public speaking ability, academic achievement and community and school involvement. Youth leader Current also serves as Historic Filipi-

17-year-old Gabrielle Current (top photo and third from left of the Royal Court in the photo below) was selected from nearly a thousand young women who competed for a spot in the 2015 Tournament of Roses Royal Court. Photos: Joe Cobilla

Gabrielle Current is a senior at Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy in the City of La Cañada.

notown Teen Ambassador of Goodwill. She is a member of the National Honor Society and the California Scholarship Federation. As president of Vivace & Friends, she produced a benefit concert that raised $5,000 for Youth Orchestra Los Angeles. She studies Classical Voice at the prestigious Colburn School of Music in LA. She

plans to major in music management. Current loves musical theater and has performed in Phantom of the Opera, Titanic, God Spell, West Side Story, 9 to 5, and Xanadu. Also a model, she has been featured in many ad campaigns, including those for Pottery Barn, Macy’s, Target, Ross and Kohls.

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Fireworks-related injuries top more than 590 as of Jan. 2: DOH MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay) – The number of fireworks-related incidents tallied jumped to 593 as of 6 a.m. Friday, Jan. 2, the Department of Health said. The DOH-National Epidemiology Center Fireworks Injury Registry classifies “firework-related injuries” into: direct firework injuries, firework ingestion, and stray bullet injuries. Of the total, 580 cases were direct fireworks injuries, three were due to firework ingestion, and 10 were caused by stray bullets. Two of the stray bullet victims needed major surgical operations, the DOH said. According to the DOH-NEC, the Jan. 2 tally of 593 cases was 338 cases (36 percent) less than the five-year-average (2009-2013) and 393 cases (40 percent) fewer than the same day last year. As of posting time, there were no official reports of fatalities in the DOH registry

as of 6 a.m. on Jan. 2. The DOH registry said the number of stray bullet injuries was eight (44 percent) cases lower than last year’s tally. Of the 10 stray bullet injuries, seven (70 percent) were males, with age ranging from 3 to 41 years old, and a median age of 20 years. Two were children less than 10 years old. Metro Manila area and Region VI each compiled three cases (30 percent) of stray bullet injuries, with two considered “serious stray bullet injuries,” the DOH registry said. The first case of “serious stray bullet injuries” involved the 13-year-old female resident of Batasan Hills in Quezon City who was hit in the head on Dec. 31 just before midnight outside a house in Tala, Caloocan City. The victim is now being observed at East Avenue Medical Center following a

surgical opening of the skull to remove blood clots and the bullet slug. She is in a “stable” condition, the DOH said. The second case of “serious stray bullet injuries” was that of a three-year-old male from Cotobato City who was hit in the left eye inside his family’s home while sleeping. He is now at the Cotobato Regional Medical Center following an eye surgery, which replaced his left eye with silicon eye replacement. He is in “stable” condition, the DOH registry said. Of the 580 cases of direct fireworks injuries, 471 cases (81 percent) were males, with age ranging from six months to 84 years old, and with a median age of 13 years. There were 155 (26 percent) children less than 10 years old and 360 cases were (62 percent) “active users” of fireworks of

the 580 cases. Most of the cases came from the Metro Manila region which scored 313 (54 percent) cases. Manila accounted for 119 of these, or 38 percent. Of the 580 cases, 465 cases (80 percent) sustained blast injury without amputation, 25 cases (4 percent) sustained blast injury with amputation, and 103 (18 percent) had eye injuries. The DOH registry said 317 cases (55 percent) of the injuries were due to illegal fireworks, with Piccolo topping the list at 223 cases (38 percent). Data listed in the DOH-National Epidemiology Center Fireworks Injury Registry come from the DOH’s 50 sentinel surveillance health facilities nationwide. The registry started compiling data on Dec. 21, 2014 and will do so until Jan. 5. (MNS)

Committee on Public Order & Safety approves creation of TWG on firecracker bills MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) – The House Committee on Public Order and Safety has approved the creation of a technical working group (TWG) that will consolidate three pending proposals to strictly regulate the sale, distribution, and use of firecrackers and other pyrotechnic devices and providing penalties for violations thereof. Rep. Samuel D. Pagdilao (Party-list, ACT-CIS), a committee vice chairman, said the TWG creation shows that the panel considers the proposed stricter regulation of the manufacture, sale, distribution, and use of firecrackers as among its priority measures. “I believe the firecracker bills are among the legislative priorities of the committee. That is why a TWG has been organized to speed up consolidation of all similar bills related to firecrackers. The committee hearings on the consolidated bill will much depend on how fast the TWG finishes its job and submits this to the committee for deliberation,” said Pagdilao. Pagdilao said he himself is in support of

the immediate deliberation and approval of the consolidated bills. “I support the early consideration and passage of the consolidated bills to address the yearly concern brought about by firecrackers. I am for the strict regulation of the manufacture, sale and use of firecrackers,” said Pagdilao. During the committee hearing, representatives of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Bureau of Product Standards (BPS) of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) expressed support for the bills. However, representatives of the Philippine Pyrotechnic Manufacturers and Dealers Association Inc. (PPMDAI) and the Philippine Fireworks Association (PFA) agreed that the existing law is sufficient enough to regulate the sale, manufacture, distribution and use of firecrackers and pyrotechnic devices. What is needed, they said, is its strict implementation and enforcement. Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo (2nd District, Pampanga),

Passengers bound for different provinces queue to check in for their flights at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 on Friday, Dec. 26, 2014 to spend the holidays with their loved ones. Many of them are chance passengers.(MNS photo)

Palace hopes for positive outcome from meeting over delayed, canceled flights MANILA, Dec 27 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang is hoping something positive will come out of a meeting on Monday that will take up complaints of canceled or delayed flights against at least one airline. Deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said “Hopefully, marami hong lumabas naman na new actions or new (sets) because of ‘yung nangyari,” she said on government-run dzRB radio. Many passengers had complained of canceled or delayed trips involving one airline during the holidays. Citing information reaching her, Valte

said the Civil Aeronautics Board had received at least 14 complaints against the airline. A meeting has been planned this Monday, with representatives from the CAB, Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines, and Department of Transportation and Communications. “(S)ome of the complaints say that undermanned daw po ‘yung mga counter, hindi raw po nakapag-check in dahil mahaba po ‘yung pila,” Valte said. “Marami pong mga ganyang alegasyon at titingnan na po ito ng DOTC at saka ng CAB,” she said. (MNS)

author of HB 786, or the proposed “Firecracker Use Regulation Act of 2013,” said while the government’s campaign against the use of firecrackers seems to be working as firecracker injuries are decreasing, the fact remains that year after year, hundreds upon hundreds fall victim to firecrackers. “The tragedy is that innocent children are the most vulnerable to these irresponsible acts in the name of merry making. These senseless injuries, deaths and destruction of property can be prevented by regulating the use of firecrackers,” said Arroyo. House Bill 786 prohibits the use of firecrackers by a non-professional or without the supervision of a professional, which carries a penalty of Php50,000 to Php100,000 fine and imprisonment of one month and one day to one year. House Bill 4434, or the “Firecracker Regulation Act of 2014” authored by, Rep.

Sherwin T. Gatchalian (1st District, Valenzuela City), seeks to amend RA 7183 to provide stricter regulations in an effort to protect the people from traditions that are inimical to public health and safety and to prevent firework-related fires and injuries. “Every year, we endure from the pollutants caused by the use of firecrackers to welcome the New Year and we see news flashes of countless injuries, especially to the hapless children. Until when should we allow this cycle of perils to our health and environment?,” said Gatchalian. According to the Department of Health (DOH), he said there were a total of 1,018 firework-related injuries at the start of 2014, owing to the end of the year revelry. Gatchalian said the figure is 73 cases or 8 percent higher than the five year (2008-2012) average and 87 cases or 9 percent higher than the same period in 2013. (MNS)

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LOS ANGELES President Benigno S. Aquino III offers a wreath during the commemoration of the 118th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Rizal National Monument in Rizal Park, Manila City on Tuesday (December 30), with the theme: “Rizal 2014: Dunong at Pusong Pilipino.” (MNS photo)

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Aquino leads 118 Rizal Day rites MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno S. Aquino III on Tuesday morning led the annual commemoration of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal at the Luneta Park in the City of Manila. This year’s ceremony, which carried the theme “Rizal 2014: Dunong at Pusong Pilipino,” marked the 118th anniversary of Rizal’s death. Upon his arrival at 7:04 a.m., the President was greeted by Vice President Jejomar Binay, Manila City Mayor Joseph Estrada, Armed Forces Chief of Staff General Gregorio Pio Catapang, Jr., Metro Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino, and Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin. He was then given full military honors with a 21-gun salute. Joining the President at the flag-raising

and wreath-laying ceremony was National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairperson Maria Serena Diokno. After the program, President Aquino greeted eight descendants of Dr. Rizal through his siblings, namely Mia Syquia Faustman (from sister Maria); Amelia Garcia Yulo (from sister Narcisa); Victor Reyes, Lisa Bayot and Malou Villaroman (from sister Saturnina); Ester Lopez Azurin and Marlene Jacinto (from brother Paciano); and Joel Noel Mendoza (from sister Soledad). Also present during the ceremony were NHCP Executive Director Ludovico Badoy, Supreme Commander of the Order of Knights of Rizal Sir Jeremias Singson and fellow members of the Freemasonry, and members of the diplomatic corps. (MNS)

Under fire from bishops, Pope shirts pulled from stores Manila, Philippines | AFP | Monday 12/29/2014 - The Philippines’s largest broadcaster pulled souvenir T-shirts for an upcoming papal visit from its stores Monday, after coming under fire from Catholic bishops irked by the words “no religion” emblazoned on them. Pope Francis, who has been praised for being reform-minded regarding longcontentious issues such as remarriage, divorce and homosexuality, will visit the deeply Catholic country in January. The T-shirts printed by the ABS-CBN television network bore the statement “No race. No religion. I embrace diversity” and were marketed with the hashtag #PopeTYSM – meaning “Thank you for the compassion” in Tagalog. While acknowledging that the statement was intended to convey Francis’s “openness”, the message was “misleading and quite frankly erroneous,” said Archbishop Socrates Villegas, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines.

“We urge our Catholic faithful not to patronize items with misleading posts and statements,” he said. “(Francis) has never said and taught that religion and race do not matter, because they most certainly do. It is what selfish, uncharitable and judgmental people do with religion and race that is a problem,” Villegas said. ABS-CBN apologized and has pulled the t-shirts from its own shops and those of its retail partners. Three of the broadcaster’s other shirt designs, which bore the statements “Who am I to judge?”, “Thank you for the compassion”, and “Speak less, act more” were still on sale. Pope Francis will arrive in Manila on January 15 for a four-day visit during which he will meet with President Benigno Aquino, comfort victims of Super Typhoon Haiyan in central Leyte island, and celebrate mass for millions in the capital’s largest outdoor park.

DOH: 492 new HIV cases in Nov. 2014 MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) – The Philippines has 492 new cases of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the virus that may progress to the acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), the Department of Health reported on Tuesday. Forty of the 492 cases have led to AIDS, said the DOH Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry for November 2014. The latest tally of 492 new cases is 28 percent higher compared to the 384 cases reported in the same period last year. The November 2014 figure brings the total of HIV cases compiled from January to November 2014 to 5,502. On the other hand, the total number of HIV cases from 1984-2014 is 22,018. The registry said the male cases recorded in November 2014 were 474 (96 percent), with a median age of 28 and age range of 17-68 years. The 20-29 year-oldage group has cornered 56 percent of the new cases. Of the 492 cases, 464 individuals reported sexual contact as the mode of HIV transmission while 28 said they got the virus through needle sharing with injecting drug users. Males having sex with other males registered 250 cases, bisexuals 146 cases,

and heterosexuals 68 cases. The registry did not indicate the mode of transmission for 28 cases. For the November 2014 data, the registry said the top five regions which registered the most number of HIV cases were: Metro Manila, Region 4A, Region 7, Region 3, and Region 11. The DOH Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry for November 2014 said from 1984 to 2014, there were 22,018 HIV cases, of which 2,011 cases have become AIDS. Of the 22,018 HIV cases, 20,519 individuals said they were infected through sexual contact, 1,035 needle-sharing among injecting drug users, 66 through mother-to-child transmission, 20 through blood transfusion, and 3 through needle prick injury. No data is available for the 375 cases. Health experts said that unlike other viruses, the human body cannot get rid of HIV, which means that an individual who has HIV has it for life. (MNS)

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My New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wish for everyone: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The best is yet to be!â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Every New Year, most of us wish to have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;prosperousâ&#x20AC;? one where we aim for â&#x20AC;&#x153;the bestâ&#x20AC;? that is â&#x20AC;&#x153;yet to be.â&#x20AC;? It is a time of hope for â&#x20AC;&#x153;better things to come,â&#x20AC;? as well as a time for reflection on past challenges. In one of Robert Browningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most famous poems he wrote: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Grow old along with me! The best is yet to be, the last of life for which the first was made. Our times are in His hands who saith, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;A whole I planned, youth shows but half;â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Trust God: see all, nor be afraid.â&#x20AC;? Gladly, she is now home recuperating. She Some of us have a zest for life, no matter is one of those that this writer so fervently how old we are. Though weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re all a year wish that this New Year will bring her older on New Year, everyone of us seeks strength to overcome her health challenges, for the extension of youth, thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why we as I have known her for almost 50 years. revel on New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s eve to celebrate and Two senior sorority sisters have also hope for the â&#x20AC;&#x153;best that is yet to be.â&#x20AC;? been battling their own health challenges as In our case, we have several sorority well. One has been in a coma for some time sisters who have health challenges. Collec- now; she used to be the Medical Director tively, we have been praying for their safe in our countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest health facility. One recovery. There is this one particular soror- other esteemed sorority sister used to live ity sister who, just recently was with us, here in the Southland but opted to go home â&#x20AC;&#x153;dancing the night awayâ&#x20AC;? in a Christmas to be treated there and be with her family party at the scenic and famous Castaways to face the realities in her life. Similarly, a Restaurant, but she suddenly was rushed younger sorority sister in the Midwest has to the hospital due to extreme weakness. had her own battle with the big C as well

as another one in the Bay area. But these brave ladies accept their challenges quietly with the hope that their prayers, along with ours, will be heard by Him above. People face various challenges in life, be it health, physical, spiritual, moral or financial challenges. All of us have experienced them at one time or another. This writer has visited quite a few wounded soldiers who face physical challenges to rehabilitate themselves. They look for the brighter side of life and are still thankful for the gift of life that they have, which enables them to help others along the way who are in similar situations. Further, another friend who used to be an atheist, was recently stricken with severe illness. He then discovered that the spiritual

side of his being was what he was missing in his life. He then decided to spread the word of God through his preachings and he now encourages others to listen to him to help them in their salvation. As for others who are facing financial challenges, crises like these come and go. One canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always stay down because the challenge is to get up and find something meaningful and significant which might be impossible but is likely probable, if one puts their mind to it. So to all of you dear readers who are currently facing similar challenges, our New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wish is for all of you to have good health and lots of blessings for a great life that is yet to be. May all of you have a joyous and a very HAPPY NEW YEAR!

For the last seven decades Gallup has asked Americans who the men and women are that they admire most, anywhere in the world. The question is open, a polling technique that appears to reward the longstanding fame of public figures such as Queen Elizabeth. Hillary Clinton, who was been in the public eye since the early 1990s, has won the honor a total of 19 times since 1993. Obama has been the most admired man for the past seven years. According to Gallup, the sitting US president almost always ranks first. The poll was conducted between December 8 and 11 among 805 adults in the United States. Its margin of error is four percentage points.

Baguio temperature drops to 11.8 degrees Celsius MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The temperature in the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s summer capital dropped to 11.8 degrees Celsius. The temperature was recorded at dawn Tuesday. The chilly weather is due to the presence of the northeast monsoon or amihan, which is currently affecting Northern Luzon. Weather bureau PAGASA said Baguio will experience a colder temperature

in the coming days especially in January. As early as October, tourists started to flock to Baguio to experience the cold weather. Last December 18, the temperature in Baguio City dropped to 12 degrees Celsius. The lowest temperature so far recorded in Baguio City was 6.3 degrees Celsius on January 18, 1961. (MNS)

Senator Villar bats for â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;vegetable gardeningâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; to meet nutritional needs MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Senator Cynthia Villar encouraged every Filipino on Tuesday to go into â&#x20AC;&#x153;vegetable gardeningâ&#x20AC;? to meet their nutritional needs amid the high prices of vegetables. â&#x20AC;&#x153;There is a need to be equipped with proper nutrition to avert sickness and this can be achieved by eating the right kind of food which includes vegetable,â&#x20AC;? Villar, chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture and Food, said. â&#x20AC;?Eating vegetables should be a habit. It should form part of our daily meals. We all know the substances that vegetables can give our body. They are strong defense against all kinds of illnesses,â&#x20AC;? she added. Villar said even the Department of Health (DOH) has been promoting vegetable gardening. â&#x20AC;?I oftentimes hear that vegetables are more expensive than other foods like pork, beef or chicken. So that being a

vegetarian is really expensive. But we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to be vegetarians to be healthy. We should just observe a balanced food consumption,â&#x20AC;? she said. Villar quoted former Britain Prime Minister Winston Churchill who said â&#x20AC;&#x153;healthy citizens are the greatest asset any country can have.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;?A healthy citizenry can only translate to a progressive nation and thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why nutrition is very crucial to our existence,â&#x20AC;? Villar said. Based on the 2008 food consumption survey of the Food and Nutrition Research Institute or FNRI, fewer Filipinos are eating vegetables in a day. From the 145 grams consumption in a day in 1978, the vegetable consumption went down to 110 grams in 2008, the survey said. Villar said those who have big garden can also earn extra money by selling their extra produce in the market. (MNS)

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The Holidays, the spirit of tolerance, and disability discrimination Christmas parties and gift-exchanges are common at work but some employees may belong to different religions that do not celebrate Christmas. How does an employer deal with this situation? In one case, the Los Angeles Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s handling exposed it to legal trouble: Huron Mayo worked as a resident manager for the County of Los Angelesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; low income housing complex in Santa Monica, participating in the holiday events and CA. In December 2009, Ms. Mayo emailed made derogatory comments about Ms. her supervisor and asked if she could be Mayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s religion. She then increased Ms. excused from the â&#x20AC;&#x153;annual staff luncheonâ&#x20AC;? Mayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workload, assigned her undesirable if the luncheon was actually a staff Christ- tasks, and forced her to do other employmas party. Ms. Mayo explained she was eesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; work. a Jehovahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Witnesses devotee, and her Ms. Mayo made a total of five comreligion does not celebrate Christmas. plaints of religious harassment and disShe thanked the supervisor for the invita- crimination to the employer. But after tion but declined to attend because of her each complaint, the supervisor (and now religious faith. the supervisorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boss) retaliated, and inAfter this email exchange, the supervi- creased their harassment, which became sorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s attitude towards Ms. Mayo changed. worse with each passing week. The hostile The supervisor scolded Ms. Mayo for not environment affected Ms. Mayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health,

which began to deteriorate. She became stressed, anxious, had severe panic attacks, nightmares, and began to lose her hair. Because of her worsening condition, her physician put her on medical leave for several weeks. When she returned to work, she received a120-page write-up, reprimanding her for â&#x20AC;&#x153;performance deficiencies.â&#x20AC;? She was also cited for an â&#x20AC;&#x153;unacceptableâ&#x20AC;? use of sick days (which were all approved by her supervisor!). She was then limited to one unscheduled sick day per month. She was so shocked by the write-up that she was unable to function and had to be placed on several more weeksâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of medical leave by her doctor. When Ms. Mayo came back from her second leave, she was fired for being supposedly â&#x20AC;&#x153;insubordinate.â&#x20AC;? Ms. Mayo sued her employer for retaliation, failure to prevent retaliation, disability discrimination, failure to prevent disability discrimination, and violation of the California Family Rights Act (CFRA).

After 11 days of trial, the jury found in favor of Ms. Mayo and awarded her $282,112.20 in economic damages, and $1,095,500 in emotional distress damages. We hope that your Holidays is not as traumatic or as life-changing as Ms. Mayoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. But if someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s rights are being violated in the workplace, though arising in the context of the Holidays spirit, it is appropriate to pursue remedies in court. [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 Journalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.]

Pinoys, other expats eyeing the exits after Russian ruble plunges By Anais Llobet

Moscow, Russia | AFP | Thursday 12/25/2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; The plunge of the ruble hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t left only Russians shell shocked â&#x20AC;&#x201C; foreign workers from traders to maids are considering bailing out as Moscow turns from an El Dorado into a financial black hole. The phenomenon is not quantifiable nor is there anything to indicate an exodus of expatriates is under way, but many admit to considering whether it is time to leave Russia after the ruble shed a quarter of its value in a couple of days last week. While the ruble has recovered somewhat, it is still down some 40 percent against the dollar and euro this year, leaving many in a precarious financial position. Joy left her three young children in Manila earlier this year to cash in on the high wages offered by well-to-do Muscovites

to clean their apartments. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When I arrived in April, I was paid 1,500 rubles, or 42 dollars (30 euros), for four hours of housecleaning,â&#x20AC;? said the 28-year-old. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Today, for the same work, it comes out to just 20 dollars (16 euros).â&#x20AC;? She had been lured here from the Philippines by friends who had been working in Moscow. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They told me the ruble was very stable and there wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t as much competition as in other cities,â&#x20AC;? said Joy. She had been sending home up to two-thirds of her earnings to support her family in one of Southeast Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poorest countries. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Marooned in Moscowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; â&#x20AC;&#x153;My goal was to have saved up enough to pay for my oldest son to continue his studies and buy a moto-taxi for my husband so he would have a job,â&#x20AC;? said Joy.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;I also wanted to repair the roof of my parentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; house ... but today I realize that is impossible.â&#x20AC;? Now, she said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t earn enough to send home for them to survive. My parents donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t understand, they think Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m working less, and I feel guilty.â&#x20AC;? Joy is comparatively lucky to be getting paid at all as many migrant labourers, particularly those from former Soviet republics who work on construction sites, are not. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Employers have now stopped paying altogether, referring to the crisis,â&#x20AC;? said Anara Beisheyeva, a lawyer for Migration and Law, an organization that works with migrant laborers in Russia. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They tell them: â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;there is no money, we are closingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;,â&#x20AC;? said Beisheyeva. â&#x20AC;&#x153;People are being left with nothing.â&#x20AC;? She said for the moment most migrant laborers were sticking around, hoping for a

quick end to the crisis rather than returning home with empty pockets. But even buying the ticket home could soon be out of reach for some, as the prices of plane tickets are set in dollars. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They are becoming more and more expensive while I am earning less and less money,â&#x20AC;? said Joy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have to decide quick or Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll might end up being marooned in Moscow. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Black Monday every dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; At the other end of the social ladder, a French trader in his 30s regrets having taken up a job in Moscow with a Russian bank at the end of September. â&#x20AC;&#x153;They offered me a good salary and big bonus,â&#x20AC;? said Olivier. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I told myself this was the opportunity to work in a dynamic market that has been growing for four years and that it is a good idea to leave Europe which is stagnating.â&#x20AC;?

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A deeper resolve needed to an old challenge for the New Year There are only a few days left before 2014 will become history. It will be remembered bitterly or fondly depending on how an individual fared in the last 365 days. As we face the remaining days still with unresolved issues from a to do list drawn up even before circa 2014 entered the scene with a lot of promise many items on the resolution list will be thrown the dustbin of one’s personal history unrealized. Many on list could have had satisfactory results had it not It is a good timing to look forward into been for the absence of a crucial element of unwavering resolve. Strong resolve the new year and take inventory of what is the key element characterized by “no we intend to do next year and the measure matter what happens, no matter what the of resolve that we would have to muster circumstance will be, the writer will stick to attain them. As we take time out to take stock of religiously to his original plan”. There will always be excuses and our readiness to face the challenges of the rationalization for not being able to stick year ahead, it would be wise to realize that to a plan but what matters really is the maybe one of the many reasons we deal abundance of a strong will and the ability with the same things year in and year out is because in our journey we never let go to work hard to succeed. Depending on one’s set standard, being of the unnecessary baggage that slows our able to do even only some resolutions in walk, Maybe we cling to old habits and the “to do list for the year” makes some a never let them really go in spite of the need “to travel light”. charge of accomplishment. There may be habits and attitudes that As we take stock of where we have been this year against our plans for the New hinder our attainment of our resolutions Year it would help to know where we are which simply need to be bundled together in relation to our future course. and thrown away. In this way our focus

would be sharper and precise. The year that will soon be behind us soon will leave with bitter or happy memories of what we’ve through. No matter, those challenges and bumps along the way have been calibrated not to weigh us down but to teach us important lessons that we will employ for the next bout of challenges. As we all live in a tumultuous world beset with problems and trepidations

learning that “All things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose” have sort of provide the soothing element for our fatigued spirit and become a source of power to strengthen our resolve to accomplish what we have resolved to do in our New Year’s resolution list. HAVE A BLESSED NEW YEAR, EVERYONE.

Century 21 Classic Estates Cap Year: Employees and staff of Cerritos-based Century 21 Classic Estates, American Classic Escrow and Crown Home Loans had a joint Christmas party to cap another year of productive year in the real estate industry. The multi-ethnic companies have remained at the forefront in providing real estate services to its clients for many years.

FIL-AM CHURCH REACHES OUT TO PHL: The Cornerstone Christian Fellowship of Orange County in Fullerton is extending its missionary reach in 2015 by sending a group of young missionaries to undertake a weeklong Medical Mission to help the victims of typhoon calamities in the Visayas. Leading the mission is CCF Senior Pastor Joam Martinez.

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Chapter 13 plan confirmed but job loss imminent: Parents qualify for Obama Amnesty CHAPTER 13 CONFIRMED Yesterday, the court approved my clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Chapter 13 case in Riverside. In Riverside, the 341 meetings presided by the Chapter 13 trustee are held in the morning, and the confirmation hearing of the case before the judge is held at 1:30 PM of the same day. In Los Angeles, Woodland Hills or Santa Ana, the 341 meetings precede the confirmation hearings by at least a month, with some judges, 3 to 6 months. The gap between the Ä&#x201C;Ä&#x2030; first and 2 hearing allows debtors to com- sequently, as much as possible, you want ply with trustee requirements to have the everything to go smoothly at the morning plan confirmed before the judge at the con- hearing, so the court can confirm the plan firmation hearing. In Riverside, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t in the afternoon. Otherwise, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have have this convenience since both hearings to return in two weeks and go through the are held within hours of each other. Con- same process. In yesterdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s case, client

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filed Chapter 13 to prevent foreclosure on her home for a mortgage default of about $20,000. Her mortgage payment was very reasonable at $1,040 a month at 2% interest after a loan modification, but husband lost his job 18 months ago and has used up all unemployment benefits. Thus, even a mortgage payment that is even less than rent can be burdensome when household income is reduced. The trustee requested for some documents at the morning hearing, and would not object to confirmation provided they were filed in by 1:30 PM. I filed the documents requested, and the only problem left was that the December mortgage due yesterday had not been paid. At the afternoon hearing, I presented client to the court to testify that she would make the mortgage payment, and so the judge confirmed the case based on her testimony. But after the hearing, client informed me that she may lose her job next month because the company she worked for had been sold, and the sale requires all employees to leave and reapply, without assurance that she would be rehired. What sad news. I suggested to husband that if he could drive around, he could use â&#x20AC;&#x153;UBERâ&#x20AC;? and make money driving people around with his own car, and that they take in renters to create some income, because if future plan payments are not made, or future mortgage payments are not made timely, case will be dismissed or bank can get permission from the court to continue foreclosure. This may take one or two months but certainly, eventually, clients will lose their house, and they would still have rent that is more than their mortgage payment. Nevertheless, I am sure our God will provide for their needs because He loves them so. PARENTS QUALIFY FOR OBAMA AMNESTY Client entered the United States in 1995, undocumented, through the Mexican border, and has been living in Los Angeles since then. When he came, he was 25 years old. He is now 44 years old and still illegal. He married his wife 10 years ago. His wife entered the United States in 2003 by H1-B visa, and started working for the employer. Employer went bankrupt in 2007. Wife could not find another employer, so she has been out of status for 7 years. Wife is 38 years old, and a professional. Client and wife are employed but getting much less than what they should, if they were authorized to work. Husband is an engi-

neer but works in a gas station, working long hours as a cashier. Wife works as a customer service rep. They have 3 children aged 6, 4 and 2 who were all born in Los Angeles. Husband and wife now seek a work permits under the Presidentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s immigration program. Do they qualify? The law requires that on November 20, 2014, applicant must have a son or daughter who is a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Since all their children are born here, children are U.S. citizens, so they meet this condition. The law requires the applicant to have continuously resided here since before January 1, 2010. Client entered through Mexico in 1995, and wife entered in 2003, so they meet this condition. The law requires applicant to have no lawful status on November 20, 2014. Client and wife are both out of status for many years. Further, the law requires that applicant be physically present here on November 20, 2014; and at the time of application, applicant has no criminal record and there are no other factors, in the exercise of discretion, makes approval inappropriate. So, it looks like clients have a good case. The problem is the evidence required to prove all of the above circumstances, particularly, clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s entry through Mexico in 1995. Since all applications will be decided on a case-by-case basis, evidence presented must be credible. Act now, and set an appointment to see me for a free consultation to see if you qualify. I look forward to help qualify under this immigration program. â&#x20AC;&#x153;FOR TO US A CHILD IS BORN, TO US A SON IS GIVEN, AND THE GOVERNMENT WILL BE ON HIS SHOULDERS. AND HE WILL BE CALLED WONDERFUL COUNSELOR, MIGHTY GOD, EVERLASTING FATHER, PRINCE OF PEACE.â&#x20AC;? Isaiah 9:6. 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.

Roxas asked: P1-B for new fire trucks, where are the trucks? MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas should promptly make public the list of cities and municipalities that received the 117 new fire trucks under the modernization program of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), LPG Marketersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association (LPG-MA) said in a news release Monday. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Congress gave the DILG a total of P1 billion for the acquisition of the 117 fire trucks. People are starting to ask where these new (firefighting) vehicles are. They havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t seen the trucks responding to fire emergencies,â&#x20AC;? said House Deputy Minority Leader and LPG-MA Rep. Arnel Ty. â&#x20AC;&#x153;When there are blazes, people donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t see the new trucks in action as first responders. What they see right away are the trucks of the Filipino-Chinese Volunteer Fire Brigades,â&#x20AC;? Ty said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Which local government units obtained the new fire trucks? The public deserves to know, and Secretary Mar Roxas ought to

satisfy their curiosity,â&#x20AC;? Ty added. Tyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s remarks came shortly after the BFP went on high alert for accidental blazes that may be caused by the mishandling of firecrackers during the New Year revelry. Congress previously authorized the funds for the DILG to procure 34 units of 1,000-gallon fire trucks, 18 units of 2,500-gallon fire trucks, and 65 units of 500-gallon mini pumpers for the BFP, according to Ty, a FilipinoChinese Volunteer Fire Brigade member. Kabataan Rep. Terry Ridon earlier questioned Item No. 5 in the P22.4-billion supplemental national budget for 2015, which gives the DILG another P199.1 million for the acquisition of 33 new fire trucks for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, where Roxas lost to Jejomar Binay in the 2010 vice presidential elections. LPG-MA has been engaged in volunteer firefighting for years. The group has its own fleet of fire trucks, complete with volunteer firefighters.

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Real Estate Market going into 2015 Happy New year to all, this year hopefully will be a better year for all. 2014 was tough year for a lot of people including myself. The Fung Shei for 2014 was not good and everyone felt it. Even if the market seems to be getting better, it’s still a challenge to a lot of people. Whomever was feeling the crunch knows what I am talking about, seems like we were just getting by and keeping our heads afloat. Well, as far as the chinese calendar is concern, we have another month and a half till the Chinese new year comes in for 2015. 2. Chocolate Real Estate should get much better for 3. Electricity all not only the top tier homeowners. Here 4. Bourbon are my predictions for 2015. 5. Employees (Wages) Home ownership is still desired by 6. Avocados the majority, specially with rent pric7. Health Care es going up another 3.5% predicted. 8. Eggs, Investment in a personal residence has 9. Redbox Rentals been a better long term investment than 10. Coffee the stock market and any other type of Calculated Inflation in check in good investment. The current generation is for the economy, these are healthy growth placing more value on career than home in order for our economy to grow the right ownership, with income rising and rent way. The world economy is actually struggoing up hopefully this will change the gling and our US economy and our US mellenials ways of thinking. currency are actually on a upward motion Existing home sales are still below the and still moving forward. So seems like pace set in 2000, though the population 2015 will be a better year. Lets all hope so. is 12 percent more than the population in Some Analyst predicts that new home 2000. More borrowers should be wanting sales will climb by 25% next year. And in to buy a new home. some markets, the influx of young firstBuyers searching for real estate will find time buyers will be especially significant. more homes for sale overall, but supply Here are the 10 hottest market for 2015. of lower-priced homes is growing more A. Atlanta estimate 11% increase. B. slowly than high-priced homes in most of Dallas estimate 7% C. Des Moine, Iowa the markets in the country. More inventory estimate 9% D. Denver estimate 14% E. with down to earth prices. Houston estimate 3% F. Los Angeles estiLending practices will ease up, banks mate 6% G. Minneapolis estimate 9% H. are getting for more money to lend there- Phoenix estimate 11% I. San Jose Ca fore will be force to make that money be estimate 3% J. Washington estimate 10%. borrowed. So, we should all plan for a great 2015, Basically if my predictions are accurate, learn to save and invest wisely for a better we will all enjoy and great Realty Market future for us and our family. going into 2015. With that rise in Real Thanks so much for your support, for market and easing on lending guidelines, all these years. Please always remember we should remember to take it easy bor- to call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance rowing and not over leverage again. Group for any questions concerning your Here are the 10 things that will go up in mortgage or real estate needs, call Ken Go prices for 2015. at 562-508-7048. Like us on facebook at 1. Gas Prices 1st Innovative Finance.

US home prices continue to flatten in October Washington, United States | AFP | Tuesday 12/30/2014 – US home prices continued to flatten out in October, with the year-on-year rise slowing to 4.7 percent according to the S&amp;P/Case-Shiller index released Tuesday. The pace of annual gains in the CaseShiller 20-city index decelerated from 4.9 percent in September and 13 percent at the beginning of 2014, evidence of a normalization of the market after the recovery from the 2008-2009 recession. Housing markets in San Francisco, Mi-

ami and Denver continued to show strength while weakening was evident in Washington, New York, Boston and Cleveland. David Blitzer, chairman of the Index Committee at S& P Dow Jones Indices, said that gains in eight cities suggested there was still strength overall in the market. “After a long period when home prices rose, but at a slower pace with each passing month, we are seeing hints that prices could end 2014 on a strong note and accelerate into 2015,” he said in a statement.

Abaya wants higher penalties for erring airlines MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay) – The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) admits there is a need to amend the Civil Aeronautics Act of the Philippines and the Air Passenger Bill of Rights. “Clearly ang amendment of the law ang kailangan at hindi commensurate na ‘yung penalties sa lumang batas na ‘yan para sa violations ng mas makabagong Air Passenger Bill of Rights,” said Transportation Secretary Jun Abaya. Cebu Pacific is facing at least 14 complaints before the Civil Aeronautics Board (CAB) since the Christmas Day melee at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 due to flight delays and cancellations, and supposed overbooking. Abaya said aside from penalties, Cebu Pacific should be ready to compensate affected passengers for the inconvenience. He pointed out that the franchise to operate an airline is a privilege that can also be withdrawn. “Hopefully sa page-engage sa Cebu Pacific ay makita nila na huwag nilang asahan na pang-penalty lang at sa kanilang interest na i-compensate ang mga pasahero dahil brand name din at reputasyon nila ang nakatayo dito. Kapag ‘di maganda ang kanilang pamamalakad sa krisis, madaling lumipat ang mga pasahero,” he said.

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AFP says number of rebel fighters steadily decreasing due to ‘Bayanihan’ MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay) – Thanks to the successful implementation of its Internal Peace and Security Plan (IPSP) “Bayanihan”, the Armed Forces of the Philippine (AFP) announced that the number of New People’s Army (NPA) fighters has been steadily decreasing. IPSP “Bayanihan” was first implemented in 2010. It is the military strategy which seeks to erode rebel influence in the countryside by community development projects coupled with security operations. “We have dealt a big blow against the NPA as their strength decreased to about 3,200 NPA remnants this year. This is due to the intensified focused military operations that resulted to the neutralization of 90 members who were killed in clashes, 106 who were arrested and filed with cases and 521 other insurgents who voluntarily surrendered to government forces,” said AFP public affairs office chief Lt. Col. Harold Cabunoc. He said that the reduction in rebel

strength is also associated with the current leadership crisis within the CPP-NPA-NDF (Communist Party of the Philippines-New People’s Army-Communist Party of the Philippines) following the capture of their national and regional leaders to include Benito and Wilma Tiamzon, Eugenia Magpantay-Topacio, Agathon Topacio and Arnold Jaramillo. “They are also considering going back to the negotiating table, which the AFP supports because it is in line with our IPSP ‘Bayanihan’ that calls for winning peace and for the CPP-NPA to abandon the armed struggle,” he added. With the intensified stakeholder’s engagement program through the active involvement of local chief executives from the provincial down to the barangay levels, Cabunoc said, the AFP has effectively facilitated the delivery of public services to the people by facilitating the consultations in the local level so that all social issues would be taken cared of. (MNS)

Peace talks with communist rebels to restart soon Manila, Philippines | AFP | Friday 12/26/2014 – The Philippine government and communist rebels said Friday that formal negotiations to end a lengthy insurgency could restart shortly, though the rebels’ armed wing announced it was beefing up its guerilla campaign. Peace talks regarding one of the world’s longest-running insurgencies, which have been on-and-off since the 1980s, may resume as early as the second half of January, Communist Party of the Philippines founder Jose Maria Sison said in a video message on Facebook. Back-channel talks to “prepare the agenda” for formal negotiations have been ongoing since September and agreements on a ceasefire and social and economic reforms may be finished before President

Benigno Aquino steps down in 2016, said Sison, who is in exile in the Netherlands. Teresita Deles, presidential adviser on the peace process, did not give a timeline for the negotiations, but told AFP that Sison’s remarks were “very positive” and indicated that common ground between the two sides was “broadening”. “Friends of the peace process have been shuttling between the two parties to explore possible parameters for restarting talks at the earliest time possible,” Deles said of the back-channel negotiations. “So far, feedback has been positive but there remain matters to be clarified in order to ensure that, if ever we do resume talks, it will not go the same way of an early, major impasse that has happened too often in the past,” she said.

DINGDONG From page 1

Ortiz tuxedo, waited at the altar along with parents Jose Sixto and Angeline Dantes. His younger brother, Angelo, stood as the actor’s best man. The wedding was officiated by Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco and also featured eight concelebrating bishops and seven priests. Dingdong’s high school principal, Fr. Tito Caluag, read the Gospel, while Novaliches Bishop Teodoro Bacani Jr. delivered the homily. In a prior interview, Dingdong said they chose Immaculate Conception as their venue because he grew up attending masses at the Cubao Cathedral. “We picked a place na meaning sa amin pareho. Doon ako lumaki sa place na yun, doon ako bininyagan and yan din yung simbahan na madalas namin puntahan together. It’s very beautiful inside,” he said. The wedding gathered the biggest and brightest names in local show business and politics. The couple picked 20 pairs of bridesmaids and groomsmen, led by Marian’s close showbiz friends Roxanne Barcelo and Ana Feleo, and Dingdong’s cousins Arthur Solinap and Jose Carlo Gonzalez. Aquino was the Witness of Honor. He was seated with principal sponsors,

PREMONITION From page 1

Alejandro Santiago said his wife Romlah Siti, an Indonesian, posted on her Facebook a sad poem about separation written in Bahasa days before the flight. “I-Tagalog ko na lang... Isa kasing tula na ibig sabihin, hindi kami nagkikita ng asawa ko, na ang nakikita lang namin ay iisang langit,” said Santiago, a Filipino based in Singapore. “Malayo ako, malayo siya, at bihira lang po kami magkita, nakalulungkot dahil iisa na lang ang makikita namin, ang langit lang,” he added, translating the poem. “Parang nagpapahiwatig na siya sa ‘kin,” Santiago said. “Nahihirapan akong intindihin, pero napakahirap pa rin paniwalaan para sa ‘kin [na wala na sila].” Their teenaged daughter, Jasmine Rose Ann Santiago, was with her mother in the

LANDSLIDES From page 1

measures. Jiangmi, which at one point packed winds of 80 kilometres (50 miles) per hour, weakened into a low pressure area as it moved west into the Sulu Sea with winds of about 30 kilometres per hour, the government weather station said. Civil defence chief Alexander Pama admitted Thursday that more frequent warnings could have been aired in broadcast media. “Probably we did not put (enough warnings) out in the media,” he told DZMM radio. He said some people had ignored the warnings and refused to evacuate or went out to sea despite the storm. “Maybe this will drive home the point to our countrymen that things are different now. Maybe now, when people are asked to evacuate, they will not resist,” he said. Jiangmi hit the southern and central Philippines earlier this week, affecting areas that were once untouched by the

LICENSE From page 1

applying. “I got nervous when it was my turn to take the (driving) test. But it was easy,” he told the Los Angeles Times. He said he had been stopped in 2005 and had to shell out almost $1,500 after his car was confiscated. Los Angeles city Councilman Gilbert

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couple Ogie and Regine Alcasid, sister Kris Aquino, GMA-7 Chairman Atty. Felipe Gozon, Regal matriarch Lily Monteverde, businessman Ben Chan, directors Mac Alejandre, Bb. Joyce Bernal and Mark Reyes. Batangas Governor Vilma Santos-Recto was also present at the wedding as principal sponsor together with Lolit Solis, Megastar Sharon Cuneta, Gilberto Duavit, Dra. Vicky Belo, Helen Gamboa, Perry Lansigan, Lilybeth Rasonable, among others. German Moreno, Randy Ortiz, Wilson Tieng, Celia Rodriguez, Antonia Tuviera, among others. Child star Ryzza Mae Dizon, who personally requested Marian to include her in the wedding entourage, was one of the flower girls. After the wedding, a bigger celebration is expected at the Mall of Asia Arena in Pasay City.

FIREWORKS From page 1

be reported later. Authorities have repeatedly warned against the custom of welcoming the New Year with indiscriminate fireworks and celebratory gunfire, which result in numerous injuries and fatalities every year. In the previous year’s celebrations, at least two people were killed and 793 others were left injured. plane, which was en route from Surubaya in Indonesia to Singapore when it lost contact with controllers Sunday morning. On Tuesday, Indonesian authorities announced search teams have found debris belonging to the plane, as well as bodies, off Borneo Island. Santiago said he is currently in Indonesia to coordinate with authorities about his wife and child. He is arranging for the speedy identification of his loved ones by providing documents such as close-up photos, IDs and dental records. He said a DNA sample has also been taken from him, In a statement, AirAsia said the debris of the aircraft was found in the Karimata Strait around 110 nautical miles south west from Pangkalan Bun. Aboard the plane were 155 passengers, with 137 adults, 17 children and one infant. frequent weather disturbances that batter the country. The storm affected more than 120,000 people, more than 80,000 of whom were evacuated. The Philippines is battered by about 20 storms every year, many of them deadly. Last year Super Typhoon Haiyan, the strongest ever to hit the country, left 7,350 people dead or missing in central regions as it stirred up tsunami-like waves, wiping out entire towns. Meanwhile, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) executive director Alexander Pama said he is surprised by the claims of some officials in Eastern Visayas that they were not given any warning about tropical storm “Seniang.” Mayor Stephany Uy-Tan of Catbalogan, Eastern Samar, where landslides killed more than 20 people, had said that her city did not receive any advance warning on the possible onslaught of Seniang. She said they could have ordered preemptive measures as they had done during typhoon “Ruby.” Cedillo was among those supporting the law. “It was difficult politically to carry a legislation for a community that was vilified, not appreciated, and marginalized,” he told the LA Times. Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah, Vermont and Washington state already have similar laws.

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You can face your debt problems with dignity If you are experiencing debt problems, you may find it difficult to talk to other people about it to the point that you are not getting the help that you need to find a solution. I understand. Debt is a very personal matter so most people don’t feel comfortable discussing it with anyone. Like most people, you’ve probably worked hard, paid your taxes and have done your best to pay all your bills on time. But at some stage in life, all of us get into debt. Money problems can easily overlap into other areas of our lives. Many people feel hopeless and power- marriages become unstable and relationless over their debt problems. I have seen ships destroyed forever. If you are currently

Why are oil firms increasing prices in PHL when world prices at all-time low? Lawmaker wants to know MANILA, Jan 1 (Mabuhay) – A lawmaker on Thursday questioned the price increase implemented by oil players at a time when international prices are at an all-time low. “What is this blip that they are talking about and why did it cause an oil price hike?” Bayan Muna partylist Representative Neri Colmenares said. “Oil companies and the Department of Energy (DOE) should explain this given that international oil prices are below $70 a barrel unlike at the beginning of 2014 when prices were at the $100-barrel level,” he added. On Tuesday, Petron raised its gasoline price by 30 centavos per liter and kerosene by 10 centavos a liter. While, there was no change in diesel prices, Shell, Chevron, and Seaoil raised their gasoline and kerosene prices at the same level earlier. “We received reports from industry insiders that the oil prices rollbacks that oil players implemented are not enough and that that oil prices should have been at least P1-2 lower and the price of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) should be at least P2 less by kilogram,” Colmenares said. “In fact, as the local oil companies are

imposing an increase, crude oil prices fell to a five-year low last Monday,” he added. Citing reports, the lawmaker said US crude benchmark West Texas Intermediate for February delivery lost $1.12 to finish at $53.61 a barrel after holding in the $56 range for nearly two weeks. Brent crude for February delivery, the London benchmark, fell 57 cents from Friday’s close to $57.88. Even the price of Dubai crude oil where the Philippines gets its supply is at an all-time low, Colmenares also said. He said he filed House Resolution 755 in February last year to investigate oil price inconsistencies not only in Metro Manila but also in the provinces, saying “there are allegations that oil companies are abusing their power to determine prices under the pricing regime set by the Oil Deregulation Law.” “People deserve a full and transparent explanation from the oil companies as to the formula in computing higher fuel prices in their area. Thus, there is a need for the House of Representatives to exercise its investigative powers, in aid of legislation, in pursuit of such an explanation particularly to have the Oil Deregulation Law repealed,” he said. (MNS)

Rep. Colmenares wants MRT, LRT fare hike postponed MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay) – Bayan Muna party-list Rep. Neri Colmenares on Friday said the implementation of fare hike for the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 and Light Rail Transit Lines 1 and 2 should be postponed. Colmenares said he will file a petition with the Supreme Court next week to block the implementation of the “unjustified” fare increase. “Sana huwag munang i-impose ito lalo na’t may nakaambang na petisyon sa Korte Suprema. Hintayin sana muna ang desisyon ng Korte Suprema,” he added. He also added that the Department of Transportation and Communication’s decision to start the implementation of the fare hike on a Sunday may be intended. “Pero mukhang tinayming nila na Sunday mag-take-effect. Walang korte, walang Kongreso, lahat may hangover pa from New Year. Siguro protesta na lang ng taumbayan ang makahaharang nito sa Sunday,” he explained. Despite this, he added that he is hoping that a protest could help stop the implementation. “Magsara man ang korte, masara man nila ang Kongreso, hindi naman nila masasara ang kalsada,” he said. “So far, sa tatlong attempt nila sa pag-increase ng fare, nahaharangan ng protesta ng mga tao.” Earlier in December, the DOTC announced that it would implement an increased base fare of P11 for both the MRT and the LRT, with P1.00 charged per additional kilometer on Jan. 4. Based on the new fare matrices issued by the DOTC, rates for end-to-end trips on the MRT-3 will increase to P28 from P15 (from North Avenue to Taft Avenue and vice versa); P30 from P20 on LRT-1 (from Baclaran to Roosevelt and vice versa); and P25 from P15 on LRT-2 (from Recto to Santolan and vice versa). However, Colmenares questioned the need for a fare increase when the government has allotted P2 billion for its rehabilitation. “May budget na P2 billion na binigay sa kanila para sa rehab ng MRT, LRT, pero ngayon sisingil pa rin sila... So saan mapupunta ang perang ‘yon?” he said. He also expressed fears that the P2 billion budget that the DOTC may save due to the increase of fares may be used as pork barrel. “Saan nila dadalhin ang P2 billion?” he asked.

in debt, rather than allowing your money problems to affect your life in such a dramatic way, filing for bankruptcy protection may help you get your life back on track. If your liabilities exceed your total assets, you’ve suffered a job loss, are facing foreclosure or have bills you can no longer afford to pay, Congress has enacted bankruptcy laws that can help you get your finances in order. I know that the mere thought of bankruptcy makes most people nervous so they avoid exploring their options until it’s too late. I find this unfortunate because in a lot of cases, people could have turned their situation around much sooner had they taken the time to find out what their legal rights are. Some people wait too long to file bankruptcy even when it is their only option. In the process, they use up hard-earned assets like their retirement plan, savings accounts, etc. but in the end they realize that this was nothing more than a temporary fix to a lingering problem. If you’ve come to the end of your financial rope and don’t know what else to do, it is time to face your debt problems with dignity and do what your situation calls for. I am not saying that bankruptcy is for everyone but after being a bankruptcy attorney for almost 14 years now and having represented thousands of clients in bankruptcy, what I have seen is that oftentimes, bankruptcy is THE ONLY WAY for most people in debt to get a fresh start when they are in over their heads in debt. If bankruptcy is the best option for you, you don’t need to keep living paycheck to paycheck while digging a deeper financial hole every single month. Yes, bankruptcy

may be a scary thing for a lot of people who don’t understand the process but once you’ve taken the time to find out how it works and how it could help you get out of debt, you may realize that it’s actually not as difficult as you first may have thought. To schedule a free consultation, please call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772. We 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 1-866-477-7772).

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2015 can be extraordinary, CBCP head says in New Year message

MANILA, Dec 27 (Mabuhay) – While Pope Francis’ upcoming visit promises a momentous start for the year, the rest of 2015 can be extraordinary for Filipinos as well, the head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines said Saturday. In his New Year’s message, CBCP president and Lingayen-Dagupan Archbishop Socrates Villegas said, “The Year 2015 can be another regular year in our calendar but it can also be an extraordinary year. If we put much love into each day of this year; if we put much hope into every difficulty we encounter this year; if we share fearlessly with everyone our joyful faith in our loving God; this year may be ordinary but it will be specially memorable one because of the love and faith and hope that we pour into the days of 2015.” Villegas said 2015 will be remembered in history as the year Pope Francis visited the Philippines for the first time. The Pope is expected to visit the Philippines from Jan. 15 to 19. “With the challenge to be apostles of mercy and compassion, the first visit of Pope Francis will surely become momentous days of grace for us Filipinos,” Villegas said. But Villegas said 2015 is also the Year of Consecrated Life for the Catholic Church worldwide. It invites Catholics to “thank the Lord for the gift of religious men and women who remind us while on earth of heavenly things,” he said. “Their lives of chastity, poverty and obedience are signs that God lives among His people,” he said. On the other hand, he said 2015 is also the Year of the Poor for the Catholic Church in the Philippines. It is the fourth in a nine-year novena for the Great Jubilee of 2021, the 500th anniversary of the first Mass and first baptism in the Philippines. “We all look at Jesus and see how poor we all are! In our poverty, the Lord is our treasure,” Villegas said. “The Year 2015 is a Year of the Lord as every year really belongs to the Lord. Let us make it truly the year of the Lord by living each day praising Him, thanking Him, loving Him and following Him forever,” he added. (MNS)

Aquino: Pinoys should continue Rizal’s fight for a better future

MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Tuesday called on Filipinos to continue Dr. Jose Rizal’s fight for a better future, as the nation commemorates the 118th anniversary of the Philippine national hero’s martyrdom. Aquino led the flag-raising ceremony and laid a wreath at the Rizal Monument in Manila early Tuesday. He also briefly met with descendants of the Filipino hero. In his Rizal Day message, the President said Filipinos should imbibe Rizal’s “inspiration to continue the fight for the Filipino.” “The battles we confront may be different from

our forebears’, yet the call to action and service they once heard remains resonant and clear,” Aquino said. “Rizal served as our precedent for prodigious acts: He took it upon himself to alleviate the despair of others and cast his stake for a tomorrow of peace and liberty,” he added. The President further called on the public to “walk the path of accountability and commit ourselves to the task of nation-building.” “We shall compose the next chapters of our history and pass it on to coming Filipinos. United, let us strive to leave them a legacy of an empowered and proud nation,” he said. (MNS)

SWS: 93% of Pinoys face 2015 with hope instead of fear MANILA, Dec 26 (Mabuhay) – Despite the trials they faced this year, slightly more than nine out of 10 Filipinos – 93 percent – are facing 2015 with hope instead of fear, according to a new survey by pollster Social Weather Stations. The SWS, which conducted the survey covering the period Nov. 27 to Dec. 1, said this was slightly below the 94 percent who faced 2014 with hope. “Hope for the New Year has always been high, starting with 87 percent when the question was first asked in 2000, and with 88 percent in 2001,” it said. Only 6 percent are facing 2015 with fear, the survey showed. Earlier this month, Pulse Asia said its survey conducted Nov. 14 to 20 showed 88 percent of Filipinos are facing 2015 with hope. The SWS survey used face-to-face interviews of 1,800 adults nationwide, 300 each in Metro Manila, the Balance of Luzon and Mindanao, and 900 in Visayas. Sampling error margins of ±2.3% for national percentages, ±5.7% each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon and Mindanao, and ±3.3% for Visayas applied to the survey. According to the SWS, its survey question on hope against fear was patterned after the polls conducted by the Institut für Demoskopie Allensbach

(IfDAllensbach). New Year hope The SWS said New Year hope reached an all-time high 95 percent in 2002, but declined to 90 percent in 2003, and slumped to 81 percent the following year. Such New Year hope rose to 85 percent in 2005 and hovered at 91 to 92 percent from 2006 to 2008, then declined to 89 percent in 2009 before bouncing back to 93 percent in 2010. In 2011, this matched the all-time high 95 percent recorded in 2002. But from 2012 to 2014, New Year hope hovered at 92 percent in 2012; 94 percent in 2013; and 93 percent in 2014. Hope in all areas SWS said New Year hope is widespread in all areas including 91 percent in Metro Manila, Visayas and Mindanao; and 96 percent in Balance Luzon. The 96 percent in Balance Luzon is similar to the record-high 97 percent who entered 2014 with hope. “Compared to 2013, the percentages of those who are hopeful of the 2015 New Year hardly changed in all areas,” SWS said. SWS noted New Year hope had been flat for three years in Metro Manila, at 91 percent in 2013 and 2014, and 93 percent in 2012. This was 96 percent in 2010 and 2011.

AirAsia disaster rekindles pain for MH370 relatives By Neil Connor

Beijing, China | AFP | Tuesday 12/30/2014 – Tearful relatives of those on board missing Malaysia Airlines flight 370 said Tuesday their torment has been awakened anew by the AirAsia loss in Indonesia, nine months into their nightmare. “It is just like what happened nine months ago when I heard the news of MH370,” said Steven Wang, whose 57-year-old mother was on the flight which remains one of the biggest aviation mysteries ever. “I can feel the desperation that the next-of-kin are suffering now. It is terrible. It is horrible,” he said. Wang emerged as one of the most vociferous campaigners for answers on how MH370 went missing on March 8, one hour into a flight from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing. An unofficial leader of hundreds of Chinese relatives who packed into often rowdy meetings with airline officials in the weeks after the disappearance, Wang was a somber shadow of his former self after months of anguish. “Most of the time now we are asking for information, but they say they have nothing,” he said, with a dejected, weary tone. Two-thirds of the 239 people on board the missing Boeing 777 are Chinese citizens. A vast multi-national search has failed to find any sign of wreckage of MH370. On Tuesday authorities looking for AirAsia flight QZ8501 -- also owned by a Malaysian airline – said they had found bodies, the shadow of a plane and debris in the sea off Indonesia.

Selamat Omar, whose son Mohamad Khairul Amri Selamat was on MH370, said the news on AirAsia would provide some solace to victims’ families. “It looks like there could be no survivors after the QZ8501 crashed into the sea. I praise the Indonesian authorities and neighboring countries for finding the plane in less than 50 hours after the plane vanished,” he said. “Now the victims’ families can console themselves and give the victims a proper burial. The families can now have a closure and have a peace of mind which I am dying for.” For other families of MH370, coping with their personal nightmare has filled the days since the plane vanished. “Our entire life is a mess now,” said Xu Jinghong, whose 65-year-old mother Liu Fengying was one of 153 Chinese passengers who failed to return home. “I lost 10 kilograms (22 pounds) in weight, I couldn’t sleep well and don’t dare to see photos of my mother or think about her,” she added, her voice cracking with emotion. ‘Flood of emotion’ -The disappearance of QZ8501 off Indonesia on Sunday sparked deep personal reflection on the plight of the relatives of the 162 people on board. “I empathize with them because I’ve been there too,” Xu said softly. “I want to tell them to take care of themselves.” Xu spoke to AFP from her Beijing home as she welcomed another MH370 relative Dai Shuqin, whose younger sister Dai Shulin was on the plane, along with three generations of her family.

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SƟll bleak Christmas for typhoon vicƟms There is still no hope or comfort in the current gloomy situation for tens of thousands of homeless typhoon victims that devastated parts of Mindanao and Eastern Visayas region in 2013. Thousands of typhoons “Yolanda” and “Sendong” victims spent their Christmas season in one-room makeshift shelters with no roof, due to government’s ineptness to built houses for them despite a billion-peso budget allocated for such purpose. Secretary Dinky Soliman of As government officials continue to the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) and local officials bungle their operations to alleviate the of the affected regions have been blaming plight of these people, another typhoon hit each other for the continued “snail pace” parts of Mindanao and Visayas last week, construction of houses for typhoon victims, triggering floods and landslides and resulting in the death to more than 50 people. including its relief operations. The latest typhoon to hit country code About P2.57 billion has been allocated by the government through the DSWD to named “Seniang” destroyed close to 200 construct houses for the typhoon victims. homes and affected more than 27,000 However, up to this time, it was reported families in parts of western and central that only a few hundreds were built, most Visayas, northern Mindanao and the Davao and Caraga regions. of them without any roofing at all. It is going to be a bleak Christmas season A report from the Commission on Audit (COA) showed that portion of the fund was for all of them this year. The President should used by some government officials for tap various government agencies to assist other purposes not directly related to as- in providing assistance to these victims. sisting the disaster stricken victims recover I hope DSWD Sec. Soliman will be in the from their sad plight. COA also reported typhoon stricken areas as soon as possible that more than P1.8 billion in Disburse- to supervise the distribution of relief goods ment Acceleration Program (DAP) funds for the victims. Soliman should spent allocated to DSWD remain unliquidated. more time in disaster stricken areas rather

than spending long hours in beauty salons dyeing her hair. No matter what she does on her hair or face, it will not alter her appearance. A gorilla will always look like a gorilla even if you dye the hair, I hope too that Interior Secretary Mar Roxas will be on the site also to supervise relief operations in the affected areas. This is the best time for Roxas to show the people that he can be relied upon during critical times. Going back to the apparent government insensitivity to the plight of typhoon victims, President Noynoy should be man enough to accept responsibility on the snail pace rehabilitation projects of the government in all devastated typhoon areas in Mindanao and Visayas regions. If Aquino had the balls for firing Health Secretary Enrique Ona for alleged corruption in the procurement of vaccines, Soliman should be booted out from the DWSD for her failure to complete the P2.57 billion shelter program for typhoon victims. Despite her admission that there has been delays in the implementation of the shelter programs for typhoon victims, she still enjoys the trust of the President. As they always say, “birds of the same feathers flock together.” Even foreign donors who have been more than generous in giving relief goods

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and cash to typhoon victims through the government were dismayed by the apparent slow progress in the distribution of aid to victims, particularly food and water. As a result, they decided to find a way to give cash and relief goods directly to the typhoon victims, instead of coursing it through the Philippine government or DSWD. The distribution of relief goods were so glaring that a video of hundreds of sacks of rotten rice worth millions of pesos laying in some field offices of the DWSD were circulated in various social media networks. But the worst the DWSD of Soliman did was to distribute rotten food items to flood victims in Palo, Leyte last year. Where if not for the mayor of the town of Palo, the starving Palo residents who have eaten the spoiled cup noodles and biscuits. After surviving the fury of Typhoon “Yolanda,” these people would have died of food poisoning, courtesy of Secretary Soliman. Same thing happened to Mayon volcano evacuees last October 15. They were given spoiled canned goods and expired noodles distributed by the DSWD. Despite her failure in many previous relief operations, Soliman has never been held accountable by the President for the DWSD’s lapses in the distribution of wasted relief goods.

Hillary Clinton trumps Jeb Bush in 2016 matchup: poll Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 12/29/2014 – Presumed Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton would comfortably defeat Jeb Bush for president if the two members of their famous US political clans went head to head in 2016, poll results showed Monday. A CNN-ORC poll showed former Florida governor Bush, the son and brother of two former US presidents, as the Republican Party’s clear frontrunner for the White House, nearly two weeks after he announced he was “actively” exploring a presidential bid. With 23 percent of respondents’ votes, Bush outpaced New Jersey Governor Chris Christie (13 percent), conservative physician Ben Carson (seven percent), former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee and Senator Rand Paul (both six percent) as top Republican contender in the race to see who will succeed President Barack Obama two years from now. Senator Marco Rubio and congressman Paul Ryan were at five percent support, with several others, including conservative Senator Ted Cruz and Wisconsin Governor

Scott Walker, in lower single digits. Clinton, who has served as secretary of state, US senator and first lady, came out on top in matchups against all Republican rivals. Bush fared best, garnering 41 percent of votes against Clinton’s 54 percent. Christie was less impressive in a faceoff with Clinton, losing 39 percent to 56 percent. Ryan, the 2012 vice presidential nominee, fared slightly better, earning 41 percent to Clinton’s 56 percent. On the Democrats’ side, Clinton bigfoots all potential challengers, claiming 66 percent support. Her nearest rival, liberal Senator Elizabeth Warren, earned just nine percent, while Vice President Joe Biden received eight percent. Clinton’s advantage is impressive, but a scenario involving Clinton herself proves poll numbers are not infallible. In a December 2006 poll about the 2008 presidential race, then-senator Obama hovered at 17 percent support for the Democratic nomination, compared with Hillary’s 39 percent.

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Clinton, Oprah women most admired by Americans: poll Washington, United States | AFP | Monday 12/29/2014 - Former secretary of state Hillary Clinton remains the woman most admired by Americans, followed by television icon Oprah Winfrey and Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai, polling agency Gallup said Monday. Clinton, a likely 2016 US presidential candidate, won the honor for the 13th year in a row, earning 12 percent of the votes. Winfrey garnered eight percent, while five percent chose 17-year-old Yousafzai, who survived being shot by the Taliban and went on to win the 2014 Nobel Peace Prize for promoting child education rights. President Barack Obama was the most admired man, earning 19 percent of votes, followed by Pope Francis on six percent. For the last seven decades Gallup has asked Americans who the men and women are that they admire most, anywhere in the world. The question is open, a polling technique that appears to reward the longstanding fame of public figures such as Queen Elizabeth. Hillary Clinton, who was been in the public eye since the early 1990s, has won the honor a total of 19 times since 1993. Obama has been the most admired man for the past seven years. According to Gallup, the sitting US president almost always ranks first. The poll was conducted between December 8 and 11 among 805 adults in the United States. Its margin of error is four percentage points.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Beauty tutorials: Korean beauty tips (Relaxnews) – This year the web has continued to go crazy for all things Korean when it comes to beauty. We’ve picked out three videos to highlight the trend. The natural look - youtu.be/ycYAZ7eNIwQ The ‘natural’ Korean look has been all the rage for a while now. Vlogger Giwon Kate takes you through her beauty routine in this makeup tutorial with a step-bystep guide taking you through the process. The key takeaway: no foundation.

Nighttime routine - youtu.be/YoOPCscaoP0 Korean-American vlogger Janie has put together this film showing off a typically Korean nighttime skincare routine. The classic Korean elements which are fast becoming global beauty trends include the use of an electric skin cleansing device and the snail face mask. K-pop makeup - youtu.be/ O5rhoegCXA0 Earlier this year K-Style’s “Beauty Bank” showed how to steal some of K-

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(Relaxnews) – Weight training helped protect against expanding waistlines for healthy men in a new study at the Harvard School of Public Health, whereas those who skipped barbells for exercise that was strictly aerobic saw less impressive results. “This study underscores the importance of weight training in reducing abdominal obesity, especially among the elderly,” says senior study author Frank Hu, a professor of nutrition and epidemiology at HSPH. “To maintain a healthy weight and waistline, it is critical to incorporate weight training with aerobic exercise.” The research team selected participants who represented a wide range of sizes with varying body mass index (BMI). They followed their sample of 10,500 healthy US men aged 40 or over for a total of 12 years, starting in 1996 and ending in 2008. To assess how to control age-related belly fat, the research team collected data on participants’ physical activity, body weight and waist circumference, the latter being the most important for lead author

Rania Mekary, a researcher in HSPH’s Department of Nutrition. “Because aging is associated with sarcopenia, the loss of skeletal muscle mass, relying on body weight alone is insufficient for the study of healthy aging,” she says. “Measuring waist circumference is a better indicator of healthy body composition among older adults.” Participants who upped their moderate to vigorous aerobic exercise by 20 minutes per day reduced the gain on their waistlines by 0.33 cm whereas those who did the same with weight training reduced the gain by 0.67 cm. Optimum results were seen in those who combined weight training and aerobic activity, and those who increased sedentary behaviors had a larger gain. “Engaging in resistance training or, ideally, combining it with aerobic exercise could help older adults lessen abdominal fat while increasing or preserving muscle mass,” says Dr. Mekary. The study was published in the journal Obesity.

Seeing the doctor, overseas: Medical tourism booms in Asia (»ç ½ ½çÃÖçÙ- ¥Ö) – The lines snaking into Bangladesh’s overwhelmed hospitals are often so long, says Nusrat Hussein Kiwan, that they extend into the street outside – too many patients seeking too few quality doctors. So, through a Google search, the wife of a Bangladeshi construction executive chose a Malaysian hospital for her heart bypass surgery. “It’s peaceful here, and my doctors are good,” Kiwan, 65, said during a post-op check-up at a Kuala Lumpur private hospital, looking full of life in an orange headscarf and sparkling gold bracelets. “I didn’t expect to be as good as before. But I’m better.” Kiwan spent $20,000 on the procedure earlier this year, joining a booming global medical tourism market that is seeing particularly rapid growth in Southeast Asia. US-based industry resource Patients Beyond Borders estimates the world market is expanding by 25 percent per year—it reached $55 billion with 11 million medical tourists in 2013. International medical tourism began to gain ground in the 1980s as Latin American countries such as Costa Rica and Brazil offered relatively cheap dental, cosmetic and other procedures to US and European patients driven south by high costs.

But the onetime niche market has developed into a multi-billion-dollar industry as developing-world health systems improve, global aviation links spread, and the Internet broadens patients’ horizons. Procedures vary widely from fertility treatments in Barbados, to cosmetic surgery in Brazil, heart and eye operations in Malaysia, and gender-reassignment in Thailand. The sector benefits from a “perfect storm of an ageing global population, rising affluence and greater choice in quality hospitals,” said Josef Woodman, CEO of Patients Beyond Borders. “This is particularly true in Asia, where disparities in quality of care are driving millions of patients to countries such as Thailand, Malaysia, South Korea, Taiwan – and even the US and UK – in search of medical treatment not yet available in their homelands.” “The near-term growth potential is significant,” he said. Increasingly, major Asian players like India, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand are aggressively promoting treatments at up to 80 percent savings compared to developed nations, with some companies arranging package trips that combine a nose job with a little beach time.

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FOOD & DINING FAMILY FEATURES

Pinot Noir Marshmallows Recipe created by Molly Yeh on mynameisyeh. com Servings: 16 1/4 cup powdered sugar 1/4 cup cornstarch 1/4 cup Kendall Jackson Grand Reserve Pinot Noir 1/2 cup water 2 packets unflavored gelatin powder 3/4 cup sugar 1/2 cup light corn syrup 1 pinch salt In small bowl, combine powdered sugar and cornstarch. Grease two loaf pans or one 8- or 9-inch square pan and dust bottom and sides with half of powdered sugar mixture. Pour out any excess mixture back into bowl. In bowl of stand mixer fitted with whisk attachment, combine pinot noir and 1/4 cup water. Sprinkle gelatin over liquid. Grease rubber spatula and have standing by mixer, as well as prepared pan(s). In small saucepan, combine remaining 1/4 cup of water, sugar, corn syrup and salt. Clip on candy thermometer. Heat mixture over medium heat until it reaches 240°F. Resist urge to crank heat level higher, otherwise it could heat up too fast. (If takes a while to heat up to those last few degrees, you can inch heat level up to medium high, keeping a close eye on thermometer.) Turn mixer on low and drizzle sugar mixture in slow and steady stream down side of bowl. Once entire mixture is in, increase speed to high and let it mix for 10–12 minutes, until lukewarm

Chicken Thighs with Potato, Lemon & Castelvetrano Olives Recipe created by Tracey Shepos on lacrema. com Servings: 4 8 sprigs oregano, leaves picked (1/2 cup packed) 5 cloves garlic 2 lemons, one zested and one cut into eight wedges 2 teaspoons cumin 3 tablespoons olive oil 8 chicken thighs (1 1/2 pounds), bone in, skin on 2 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1/2-inch circles 4 teaspoons kosher salt 1 cup Castelvetrano olives, pitted and drained Preheat oven to 350°F. In food processor, combine oregano, garlic, lemon zest, cumin and 2 tablespoons oil. Process until chopped. Place mixture in large bowl and toss with chicken thighs. In 10-inch cast iron pan, layer 1 tablespoon oil and top with potatoes and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons salt. Place chicken thighs on top and sprinkle again with 2 teaspoons salt. Scatter lemon wedges in between chicken thighs. Place pan over medium heat, cook for 5 minutes or until edges start to brown. Immediately place pan on top rack in oven and bake for 10 minutes. Adjust oven temperature to 400°F and cook for another 25 minutes or until chicken is browned and internal temperature reaches 160°F. Scatter olives on top and serve.

Perfect Winter Pairings Matanzas Creek Merlot and Beef Bourguignon Bring out the rich and savory flavors of this classic French stew with the notes of dried blueberries and cranberries, bittersweet chocolate and black cardamom in Matanzas Creek Merlot. Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet and Pot Roast Serve up this braised beef favorite alongside Freemark Abbey Napa Valley Cabernet, with its aromas of dark cherry, ripe plum and black currant. Edmeades Zinfandel and Meatloaf Each meaty bite tastes even more comforting than the last when paired with the lush texture and notes of toasted oak, vanilla and cherry cola in Edmeades Zinfandel.

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Recipe created by Dirk Yeaton on murphygoodewinery.com Servings: 10–12 6 dried chili pods, seeds and stems removed Salt and pepper, to taste 1 1/2 pounds top round cut into cubes 1 1/2 pounds chuck steak cut into cubes 1 cup vegetable oil 1 medium onion, chopped 3 small cloves garlic, minced 1 1/2 ounces chili powder 1 tablespoon paprika 3 tablespoons cumin 2 tablespoons oregano steeped in 1 cup of red wine 1 tablespoon cider vinegar 1/2 teaspoon cocoa powder 2 cups beef broth 10 ounces stewed tomatoes 1/2 cup grated Pepato cheese Toast dried chilies over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Add 2 cups of water and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain out chilies to cool, then chop and reserve. Season meat liberally with salt. Heat oil over high heat in large, heavy bottom pot until it begins to smoke. Carefully place beef into pan and brown on all sides until moisture cooks out and light brown film forms on bottom of pan. Reduce heat to medium. Drain meat of oil and fat. Add onions and garlic, cooking until soft. Add chili powder, paprika and cumin. Cook until fragrant. Add reserved chopped chilies and rest of ingredients (except for cheese) and stir well with wooden spoon, scraping browned bits off bottom of pot. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, occasionally stirring. To serve, place in bowl and sprinkle with grated cheese.

and fluffy. Using greased spatula, immediately scrape mixture into pans and spread out evenly as possible. Dust tops with remaining powdered sugar mixture and (if needed) use hands to flatten mixture out completely. Let set for hour, cut into squares and dust edges of squares with remaining powdered sugar mixture.

of France, these vineyards offer an unusually long, cool growing season, so grapes develop complex flavors. The Sonoma Coast Chardonnay is beautifully aromatic, with an intriguing interplay of lively citrus and subtle toasted oak, laced with just a kiss of butterscotch. Toasted S’mores and Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Pinot Noir Take the traditional fireside treat to a new, gooey level with homemade, wine-infused marshmallows served with a glass of Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Pinot Noir. Handcrafted from the top seven percent of all the winery’s lots, with 70 percent sourced from the same vineyard blocks year-to-year, it ensures greater consistency and enhanced complexity with each vintage. Please your sweet tooth and palate with this pinot noir, with lively berry pie notes defined in wild strawberry and black cherry, with hints of vanilla and earthy aromas.

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inter is a great time to experiment with new culinary creations that incorporate the bold flavors of wine for delicious results. Nothing pleases the senses quite like a comfort food dish on a chilly evening. If you’re planning a menu for just you and your mate, a small group of close friends or a full-blown dinner party, stock up on great wine selections to complete the menu. Smoky Chili and Murphy-Goode Homefront Red Just as a robust chili calls for a blend of signature ingredients, so does the perfect wine to complement it. The smoky flavors of seasoned steak cubes and dried chili pods will please the palate when united with Murphy-Goode Homefront Red — a blend of syrah, merlot, petite sirah and zinfandel. This wine is comfort food friendly and fruit forward, chock full of flavors of black cherry and raspberry, vanilla and toast. Plus, for every bottle sold, the winery donates fifty cents to Operation Homefront, a national nonprofit that provides assistance to service members and their families. Classic Roast Chicken and La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay Fresh oregano, fragrant garlic and buttery Castelvetrano olives star in this traditional chicken dish which pairs wonderfully with vibrant La Crema Sonoma Coast Chardonnay. Just as in the Burgundy region

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Weekend, Sat. - Fri., January 3 - 9, 2015

LOS ANGELES

Visit www.Balita.com

LOS ANGELES

Weekend, Sat. - Fri., January 3 - 9, 2015

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LOS ANGELES

Weekend, Sat. - Fri., January 3 - 9, 2015

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ENTERTAINMENT

5 things Kris Aquino learned in 2014 MANILA, Dec 29 (Mabuhay) -- This year has been filled with life lessons for Kris Aquino, who shared the key learnings she took away from 2014. The outspoken host-actress Aquino looked back at the ups and downs this year and what she learned. 1. Value of life “I learned the value of life because of what happened to Boy and I learned how to value those who are important to you,” she said, referring to the health battles of

her good friend and co-host Boy Abunda during the second half of the year. “Sa pinagdaanaan niya, doon ko napatunayan ‘yung devotion ko sa trabaho. Kasi August ‘yon, nine months pinlano ang bakasyon na ‘yon pero finorego ko siya talaga. Hindi ‘yon biro na four days ka lang sa New York. Umuwi talaga ako dahil kinailangan ako ng trabaho,” noted Aquino, who volunteered to cut short her New York trip to allow Abunda to recuperate.

2. Family comes first “Natutunan ko also as far as political popularity is concerned maraming ups and downs talaga. Pero at your core ay pamilya kayo so alam mo na you are there for each other. So kung alam mong down, alam mo kung paano ipakita na babangon at gaganda. ‘Di ka magbibigay ng sakit ng ulo kung hindi magbibigay ka ng inspirasyon,” said Aquino, who is youngest sister of President Benigno Aquino III. 3. It takes two to tango “Matters of the heart, ang natutunanan ko it’s beyond your control because it will take two of you to make it successful. And if you are both not on the same page, kahit na ikaw ay truthful at ikaw ay sure, kung hindi kayong dalawa nandoon, eh magkakaiwanan kayo. So dapat walang looking back, dapat looking forward to everything that can still happen na maganda,” mused Aquino, whose romance with Quezon City Mayor Herbert Bautista early this year proved to be short-lived. 4. Quality mom “As a mother natutunan ko talaga na they need me, na ‘yung naramdaman ko na it’s not enough that I’m a great provider, I should be an ever present source of love of caring. Super ganda nga bahay niyo pero kung kumakain sila mag-isa gabi-gabi what’s the point of that? So natutunan ko talaga how to balance na kung hindi man ako ‘yung makauwi para mag-dinner kami, sila ang pumupunta,” said Aquino, who is a proud stage mom to son James “Bimby” Yap Jr., who is part of the comedy “The

Kris Aquino

Amazing Praybeyt Benjamin” with Vice Ganda. 5. Peace with James “Last siguro it’s benefiting both Bimb and Kuya na ini-encourage ko ‘yung relationship ni Bimb with James na super proud ako sa son ko na they are building their relationship. They are on the same page at honest sila with each other and ‘yung polite talaga siya sa girlfriend, polite siya sa tatay niya, polite siya sa kamaganak ng tatay niya,” she said, referring to ex-husband, basketball star James Yap. “Pero siyempre hindi madali ang journey na pinagdaanan namin pero kapag nakita nila na okay ang mom nila, basta happy ang mom nila, ‘okay Mama, I will do it for you.’ And I have to credit James na ginawan niya ng time na ‘yung every Friday ay hahanapan niya ng oras talaga,” Aquino added. (MNS)

Aiko Melendez denies dating younger man Aiko Melendez reacted to reports that she is dating a younger man after several photos of them together made the rounds online. The man in the photos has been identified as Michael Pate, a college varsity player in his early 20s. Melendez said there is nothing romantic going on between them, adding that they are always with a group of friends. “It’s pangit naman na it would come from me. Probably siguro he has a crush on me. Ganun lang. Barkada namin nila Edwin Tan. We just hang out as a group,” she said. In one of Pate’s Instagram posts, he captioned a photo of Melendez with the hashtag “true love.” Asked if she has any idea why Pate made such a remark, Melendez said: “Probably kasi I’ve been single for the past five years. Anybody na matabi sa akin, [nali-link]. Ewan ko sa kanya bakit siya nag-post ng [true love daw ako]. Sinasabi lang niya na humahanga siya sa akin pero walang [panliligaw].” Even if she said in the past that she still wants a happy ending when it comes to her love life, Melendez said Pate is “just too young.” Meanwhile, the actress said she is taking back her statement last week that she wants to have another baby with her former husband, Jomari Yllana. “I take it back. Two nights ako, parang nagdasal ako na huwag na lang. I’m content na with two kids. I have a boy and a girl so parang okay na,” she said. Melendez said she is fortunate to have Yllana as a friend despite their failed marriage. “We are okay. Jom and I are best of friends. If we go further than that, it will complicate things. If we are more than friends, masisira lang whatever we have right now,” she said. (MNS)

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COMMUNITY

Tireless effort by immigrants cited for new driver license law With passage of AB 60, even undocumented can get driver license

LOS ANGELES – Through the tireless advocacy of the immigrant community and their allies over the past several years, all California residents will finally be eligible to receive a driver’s license regardless of their immigration status under the Safe and Responsible Drivers Act (AB 60). This long-awaited victory will allow undocumented Californians to be able to travel safely within the state without risking the consequences of unlicensed driving such as tickets, vehicle impoundments, and potential arrests. “Our community members can now drive safely to work and school. AB 60’s long due and historic victory resulted from all immigrant communities working in unity. The Koreatown Immigrant Workers Alliance (KIWA) and Korean American community in Los Angeles welcome this

change,” said Alexandra Suh, Executive Director of KIWA. “AB 60 will make it easier for hardworking Pacific Islanders to support their families and contribute meaningfully to their communities while helping to make our roads safer for everyone,” said Tana Lepule, Executive Director of Empowering Pacific Islander Communities. “AB 60 will give undocumented parents the peace of mind when picking up and dropping off their children at school. Our community looks forward to the implementation of AB 60,” said Hee Joo Yoon, Executive Director of the Korean Resource Center. Beginning this January 1, 2015, undocumented Californians can receive a non-commercial driver’s license from the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) by completing the DL-44 application form, paying the standard $33 application fee, and passing both the knowledge and behind-the-wheel tests. Under the law, AB 60 driver’s license

Pechanga Resort & Casino’s New Year Gift: Sarah Geronimo Live in Concert on Jan. 16 & 17 Filipina Pop Star Princess Sarah Geronimo is poised to open New Year with a bang for a two-night concert to endear followers and avid patrons of the only getaway for music and game lovers, Pechanga Resort & Casino in Temecula, California on January 16 and 17 at 8 p.m. Pechanga Resort & Casino is well-known for hosting the best and the brightest Filipino entertainers and performers such as Mega Star Sharon Cuneta, veteran actor Richard Gomes and OPM (Outstanding Pilipino Music) legend Rico J. Puno, who gave wholesome entertainment to the delight of the crowd in previous engagements. Variety is the name of the game for Pechanga Resort & Casino, the reason why it is hosting in January 2015 the first-ever two-day concert of Geronimo dubbed as ‘Perfect 10’ by Viva Live group. At age two, Geronimo, who was gifted with talent in both singing and acting, started a series of shows in the malls. She born July 25, 1988 by Filipino parents, Divine and Delfin and is the third of four children. When she turned four, her mother led her to audition to different TV programs where she became part of the kiddie show, Pen-Pen de Sarapen (4-6 years old), Ang TV (7-8 years old), and NEXT (8-9 years old). She likewise, performed in various other venues as hotel lounges and huge shopping malls and in 1995 became one to perform for the 1995 visit of Pope John Paul II. In 2003, when Geronimo was just 14 years old, she joined the singing competition Star For A Night hosted by Ms. Regine Velasquez. On finals night, Sarah’s rendition of Celine Dion’s To Love You More won her the P1-million and a managerial contract at Viva Artist Agency grand prize in the singing tilt. Soon enough, Geronimo became busy with albums, concerts, soap operas, hosting chores in Sunday variety show ASAP, movies and endorsements. She became a role model for many aspiring young singers and dubbed as the Pop Star Princess. She starred in such teleseryes as Bituing Walang Ningning, Pangarap na Bituin, and the short lived TV musical series 1DOL. She was cast in such films as Filipinas, Captain Barbell, Masikip sa Dibdib, Annie Batumbakal, Lastikman: Unang Banat and Hating Kapatid. But she really made an impact as a box office star when she did A Very Special Love and You Changed My Life opposite John

Lloyd Cruz. The two romantic-comedy films were both box office hits. She also starred with the recently concluded film opposite Coco Martin, released in August 2014. On TV, Sarah Geronimo is a regular on ASAP. She also had a Sunday night musical variety show entitled, Sarah G. Live. Sarah also sat as one of the four coaches of reality singing competition. All year-round, Pechanga Resort & Casino delights its audiences not only in presenting innovative entertainment shows but more importantly, in varied gaming activities and foods galore, plus a tons of raffles and giveaways for visiting participants. Time is running out. Buy your tickets now – from $85, $75, $70 and $65. Tickets are available at the Pechanga Box office or online at www.Pechanga.com/tickets. Room and show packages are available. To purchase wheelchair seating, please call the Box Office at 1-877-711-2946. Shows in the Pechanga Theater offer a comfortable and intimate concert experience. With 1,200 seats in its theater, each show features state-of-the-art and acoustically perfected sound. Enjoying favorite artists at Pechanga versus other venues proves effortless with free valet and self-parking for guests, complimentary casino/resort shuttles, gourmet and casual dining options on site, plus comfortable chairs and an up-close view from every theater seat. About Pechanga Resort & Casino Pechanga Resort & Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experience anywhere in the country. Rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort & Casino provides an unparalleled getaway, whether for the day or for an extended luxury stay. Offering more than 3,000 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 517 hotel rooms, dining, spa and championship golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort & Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community. Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free 1-877-7112946 or visit www.Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort & Casino on Facebook.com/ Pechanga and on Twitter @PechangaCasino. Pechanga Resort & Casino is open 24-hours. Guests must be 21 and older to enter the casino.

recipients are protected from discrimination by law enforcement agencies. “This AB 60 Driver’s License Bill will allow undocumented immigrants to step out of the shadows and be further integrated in society,” said Chanchanit (Chancee) Martorell, Executive Director of the Thai Community Development Center. “It eliminates the fear from performing ordinary tasks like going to work, grocery shopping, and dropping kids off to school. It treats law-abiding members of our society as law-abiding members of our society. These are people who are trying to do what’s right and this bill is finally allowing them to do just that.” An estimated 416,000 undocumented Asian American and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) will be eligible to receive an AB 60 driver’s license in the state of California, underscoring the need to raise awareness within the AAPI community about this new policy and to demystify misinformation that might deter AAPI undocumented immigrants from availing it. “AB 60 is a victory for our immigrant communities and groups who have advocated for this issue for decades,” said Joanna Concepcion, Executive Director of the Filipino Migrant Center. “Roughly 1 in 4 Filipinos are undocumented in the U.S. and it’s important that Filipinos are well-informed about how this new law could benefit them.” Concepcion said, “There are 1.2 million Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders in the United States, and 24% live in California,” said Kawen T. Young, Executive Director of Native Hawaiian & Pacific

Islander Alliance. “Among these residents, a significant percentage of Pacific Islanders are immigrants from the nations of Fiji, Samoa and Tonga. The AB 60 Drivers’ License implementation will ensure that those who are undocumented can drive legally and safely in the State of California.” As the DMV anticipates the full implementation of AB 60, the AAPI community will continue to advocate for the accessibility of DMV resources and materials to AAPI undocumented immigrants, particularly to those who have low English proficiency, to ensure that this policy becomes a successful program for all undocumented Californians. “This was fought for because it would make a big difference in many people’s lives, and we are here to help everyone in our community make it successfully through the application process. Nandito kami para tumulong (We are here to help),” said Aquilina Soriano Versoza, Executive Director of the Pilipino Worker Center. “We are dedicated to informing the Asian American and Pacific Islander community about the benefits of AB 60 to help community members make an educated decision about applying for drivers licenses,” said Stewart Kwoh, Executive Director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles. “As we look forward to seeing AB 60 improve the livelihoods of undocumented Californians, we continue our commitment to fight for a more comprehensive solution that would provide all undocumented immigrants with the dignity they deserve.”

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JAY Dâ&#x20AC;? PLUMBERHANDYMAN Plumbing repair, drain cleaning, copper repipe, bath & kitchen, remodel hydro jetter, toilet, disposal, heating water heater, iron works, electrical & carpentry. Free estimate. (818) 730-6571

APT. FOR RENT Hollywood. 1 BR $1,250; Single $1,050; Bachelor $900. Brand new hardwood Ă&#x20AC;r, intercom entry, a/c, TFC cable ready, gated parking, pool, near Sunset & Wilcox, no pets. Manager speak Tagalog. 323-462-3573.

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APTS. FOR RENT 1 Door apt. 2 BR. Filipino Town area - Temple / Rampart. 2BR 1 BA, parking space. Preferably nonsmoker. For inquiries call Vicky @ (213) 944-8887 or (213) 384-1955.

ROOM FOR RENT 2 BR 1 BA, big, spacious rooms & kitchen. Near Filipino stores & commercial area. Los Angeles bet Beverly & Dillon St. 213-9085279 or 213-909-8532.

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ROOM - GLENDALE Large room w/ own toilet/ BA, big closet, w/ cable/ TFC, free utils. Close to mall, school, church, bus & frwy. Call or lv msg (818) 484-1517. . OFFICE ROOM And desk spaces for rent available in 1559 E. Amar Road, Unit M, West Covina, CA 91792 situated in the West Covina Seafood City Plaza. Call 1-855-9551800 & look for Joseph or Annabelle for details.

ROOM-BURBANK $660/mo. Large room in newly house, furnished w/ new bed & own bath. With wiÂż, internet, cable, utility included. Close to mall, accessible to everything. Female only. Call (818) 426-1035

ROOMMATE/ BEDSPACER Apartment in Panorama City. Filipino female $300/ mo inlcd utilities. Pls call: 818-691-4092. Near Walmart & Island PaciÂżc.

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*NOVENA of CONFIDENCE O Lord Jesus Christ, To your most Sacred Heart, I conÂżde this/ these intention. (Here, mention your request.) Only look upon me, then do what your Heart decides. I count on You. I trust in You. I throw myself on Your mercy, Lord Jesus! You will not fail me. Lord Jesus, I know You will not fail me Sacred Heart of Jesus, I trust in You.Sacred Heart of Jesus, I believe in Your love for me. Sacred Heart of Jesus, I have asked you for many favors, but I earnestly implore this one. Take it, and place it in Your Sacred Heart. When the Eternal Father sees it covered with Your precious blood. He will not refuse it. It will no longer be my prayer, but Yours. O Jesus, Sacred Heart of Jesus, I place my trust in You. Let me never be confounded. Amen.-ANNA

PRAYER FOR SAINT THERESE Oh Glorious Saint Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to aid and counsel mankind, I invite your miraculous intercession. So powerful are you in obtaining every need of body and soul, Our Holy Mother Church proclaims you a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Prodigy of Miraclesâ&#x20AC;?. Now fervently beseech you to answer my petition: (mention here) and carry out your promise of doing good upon the Earth of letting fall from heaven a shower of roses. Henceforth, Dear Little Flower, I will fulÂżll your plea â&#x20AC;&#x153;to be made known everywhere and I will never cease to lead others to Jesus through you. Amen (Say prayer every day for 9 days. By 4th day, you will see a rose in a magazine, TV picture or receive roses. You can also get strong scent of roses in home even if no roses present. Must promise publication. Thank you Saint Therese. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; INC

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US to bolster PHL labor inspection capacity with $1-M grant WASHINGTON, D.C., Dec 27 (Mabuhay) – The Philippines has hailed the $1- million technical assistance grant announced by Washington to strengthen workers’ rights through reforms in the country’s labor inspection capacity, saying such speed up compliance with global standards. “This is yet another initiative that reflects the enduring strategic partnership between the Philippines and the United States,” Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. said shortly after the International Labor Affairs Bureau (ILAB) of the US Department of Labor announced the grant. The grant, awarded to the International Labor Organization, is intended to help improve the effectiveness of labor inspections in the Philippines, particularly in the areas of occupational safety and health and labor rights monitoring by workers, employers and their representatives. “The assistance will further accelerate our compliance with global labor standards,” Ambassador Cuisia said as he commended the Department of Labor and Employment, particularly Secretary Rosalinda Dimapilis-Baldoz, who vigorously negotiated for its approval in behalf of the Philippines. In selecting the Philippines, the ILAB noted the number of steps taken by the country to increase staff and enhance technology in labor inspections. It said the grant will assist in these efforts by improving labor law compliance and labor rights monitoring. “This kind of targeted technical cooperation assistance impacts significantly the

promotion of labor standards enforcement and compliance in the Philippines and ensures the protection of workers rights to decent employment,” Cuisia noted. Labor Attache Angel Borja said the announcement of the grant could not have come at a more timely occasion, at a particular stage when the Philippines is working hard to sustain the gains the economy has achieved in 2014 and gearing up to meet new development challenges in 2015 and beyond. “As a way forward, the role of a robust and institutionalized labor inspection regime that guarantees employers compliance to internationally-accepted labor standards on a sustainable basis cannot simply be over-emphasized,” Borja said. “Labor inspections as a means of enforcing existing labor laws are essential to raising standards for workers around the world,” said Deputy Undersecretary for International Labor Affairs Carol Pier, who also announced a $2-million grant for Peru. “These projects will build on existing efforts within Peru and the Philippines to help those countries better enforce their labor laws and protect workers’ rights,” Pier added. Since 1995, ILAB has worked with other governments and international organizations to identify aid that countries may require to improve the labor conditions of their workers. ILAB’s Office of Trade and Labor Affairs currently provides approximately $76 million in technical assistance to improve worker rights, livelihoods and labor law compliance in more than 72 countries around the world.(MNS)

CDPH warns consumers not to eat Happy Apple brand caramel apples Fruits may be contaminated with listeria monocytogenes California Department of Public Health (CDPH) Director Dr. Ron Chapman warned consumers today not to eat all varieties of Happy Apple Brand Caramel Apples because they may be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes. CDPH is coordinating with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other state and local agencies in the investigation of 29 cases of Listeriosis in 10 states which appear to be linked to the consumption of multiple brands of caramel apples. All 29 cases have been hospitalized and five deaths have been reported. A single case-patient in California has died. Happy Apple Company, with manufacturing facilities in Orosi, CA and Union, MO, is voluntarily recalling all varieties of Happy Apple Brand Caramel Apples, after learning of the recall of apples used to produce the caramel apples by one of their apple suppliers. These caramel apples were packaged in clear, plastic containers as a single pack, three pack, four pack, or eight pack. All Happy Apple Brand Caramel Apples with “Best if used by dates” between August 25, 2014 and November 23, 2014 are being recalled. The Happy Apple Brand caramel apples were sold at multiple retail, club and discount store locations throughout California, Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin. Although the recalled caramel apples are not likely to remain on grocery store shelves, consumers may still have the caramel apples in their homes. Anyone in possession of the recalled caramel apples should place them into a garbage bag and dispose of them in the trash. The CDC continues to recommend that U.S. consumers not eat any commercially produced, pre-packaged caramel apples, including plain caramel apples as well as those containing nuts, sprinkles, chocolate, or other toppings, until the investigation can determine all of the brands that may be implicated in the outbreak. Whole in-tact apples, apple based beverages such as juice or cider, and apple sauce do not appear to be associated with this outbreak. Symptoms of Listeria infection may include high fever, headache, and neck stiffness. Infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are at highest risk for severe illness and death. Listeria infection in pregnant women can lead to miscarriage or stillbirth, premature delivery, or infection of the newborn baby. More information is available at the following link: http://www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/ discond/Pages/Listeriosis.aspx CDPH recommends consumers experiencing any ill effects after consuming caramel apple products should consult with their health care provider. Consumers that observe the recalled caramel apples being offered for sale are encouraged to report the activity to the CDPH toll free complaint line at (800) 495-3232.

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Pops Fernandez, Society of Seven in Filipino concert, Feb. 7, at Pala Lhey Bella also to perform

PALA, CA, December 10, 2014… Pops Fernandez, the Filipino “Concert Queen” will perform with the Society of Seven in a special Filipino concert at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, February 7, in the Events Center at Pala Casino Spa & Resort. Lhey Bella, a rising Filipino star, also will perform with the Society of Seven. Fernandez, one of the most popular performers in the Philippines, has recorded numerous chart-topping songs and attracted sell-out crowds throughout her 20+-year career. The Society of Seven is a variety group and show band that traces its roots back to the ‘60s and performs throughout Asia and the United States. Lhey Bella enjoys a wide musical range and performs jazz standards, dance tunes, R& B and rock and roll. Tickets on sale at 10 a.m., Friday, December 12, with no service charge, at the Pala Box Office in the casino, or call 1-877-WIN PALA (1-877-946-7252). Tickets also are available at Star Tickets, 1-800-585-3737, or www.startickets. com. Pala is located in Northern San Diego County; from San Diego/Riverside, take I-15 to Highway 76 east five miles; from Los Angeles County and Orange County, take I-5 south to Highway 76 east, then travel 23 miles. Pala is 15 miles north of Escondido, 12 miles south of Temecula. Address: 11154 Highway 76, Pala, CA 92059 Telephone: 1-877-WIN-PALA (1-877946-7252) Web site: http://www.palacasino.com Other shows coming to Pala: Kathy Griffin, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, January 10, 2015, Events Center. Tickets, $60. $50, $40, $30 at www.startickets.com Tu Quy (Fantastic Four) Vietnamese Concert, 7 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2015, Events Center. Tickets, $100, $55, $45, $35, at www.startickets.com and all Vietnamese ticket outlets. One Night Only California’s Best Elvis Impersonators with Travis Allen, James “King” Kruk, Rob Ely, 7 p.m., Saturday, January 24, 2015, Infinity Showroom. Tickets, $30, at www.startickets.com Arrival From Sweden The Music of ABBA, 7 p.m., Saturday, February 14, 2015, Infinity Showroom. Tickets, $45, $37, atwww.startickets.com Jim Jefferies, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, February 21, 2015, Events Center. Tickets,

Pops Fernandez

$40, $30, at www.startickets.com Ringo Starr and His All-Starr Band, 7:30 p.m., Saturday, March 14, 2015, Events Center. Tickets, $125, $100, $95 atwww. startickets.com About Pala Casino Spa & Resort Pala Casino Spa & Resort includes a Las Vegas-style casino with 2,000 slot machines, 87 table games and 13 poker tables; a 507-room hotel; a 10,000-square-foot, full-service spa and salon that features 14 treatment rooms; a state-of-the-art fitness center; swimming pool with 12 private poolside cabanas, and dual-temperature outdoor whirlpool hot tub. Pala also offers 10 restaurants and 40,000 square feet of meeting and convention space. Pala Casino Spa & Resort is an AAA Four-Diamond Award winner for 11 consecutive years. Its state-of-the-art Pala Spa was named the number one spa on the West Coast and one of the top 100 spas in the United States for 2013 by Spas of America. Previously, Pala Spa was named the 2009 Best Casino Spa by Spas of America, the 2009 Best Casino Spa by the Southern California Gaming Guide and in 2012 received a spaAward and was selected by Spas of America as one of the top 100 spas in the United States. In 2011, Pala Casino Spa & Resort was voted Best Casino in San Diego by the public in the 10News.com annual A-List poll sponsored by KGTV-TV 10 Newsin San Diego. For more information, visit http:// www.palacasino.com.

FBI arrests suspect in shooting of LA cops Los Angeles, United States | AFP | Thursday 1/1/2015 – A second suspect has been arrested for allegedly opening fire on two Los Angeles police, the FBI said Thursday, with the United States still on edge over the murders of two New York officers. The alleged shooter, James Brooks, 19, was arrested Wednesady in Las Vegas, the FBI said in a statement. Authorities launched a manhunt for Brooks, who, with an accomplice, allegedly opened fire on the LA police officers in their patrol car Sunday, said officials, who added that no one was injured. The other suspect was detained shortly after the incident, authorities said. Law enforcement across the United States has been on alert after the fatal shootings of the two officers in New York earlier this month. America’s largest city was left in shock by the killings of Wenjian Liu, 32, and Rafael Ramos, 40, shot in the head as they

sat in their patrol car in broad daylight in Brooklyn on December 20. The two officers were slain following nationwide demonstrations over the killing of several black suspects by police, amid historically bad relations between US law enforcement and the African American community. “This is a suspect that fired at police officers, so please take caution,” she told local channel KTLA, warning he may still be armed. The New York shooter had posted angry, anti-government comments on Instagram that referenced the black men’s deaths. Aguilar said there was no known link between the incidents, but that anti-police violence was a “concern.” “It’s always in the back of the mind that you could be the target of somebody’s anger and have something like this happen,” she said. Police issued a “tactical alert” early Monday, deploying additional off-duty officers.

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Senator Pia Cayetano renews call to protect sanctity of Rizal monument MANILA, Dec 30 (Mabuhay) – As the nation commemorates the 118th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, Senator Pia Cayetano on Tuesday renewed call to protect and preserve the sanctity of the Rizal monument in Manila. “I enjoin our national cultural agencies to make full use of their authority and fulfill their constitutional mandate to preserve and protect our remaining historical and cultural heritage,” Cayetano said. Cayetano is the chairperson of the Senate committee on education, arts and culture which initiated a Senate inquiry on the construction of the 49-story Torre de Manila condominium near the Rizal Park. ”Who have thought that the famous quote of Dr. Jose Rizal: Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan (Those who do not know how to value their past are condemned not to reach their destination) come back and haunt us and the very shrine built to honor him?,” Cayetano said. Cayetano stressed the need for full protection of the Rizal Shrine since as a national monument “it is entitled to full protection under the Constitution and our national heritage law.” ”The objective of these laws is to preserve and protect important cultural properties and national cultural treasures and to safeguard their intrinsic value, within their historical setting and that includes their vistas and visual corridors,” the lady senator said. The lady lawmaker said she remains hopeful that the case filed by the Knights of Rizal against Torre de Manila and its developers, DMCI Homes Inc., before the Supreme Court would be resolved favorably and earnestly by the high court. ”Torre de Manila must go if we are to restore the sanctity of the Rizal Shrine. At the very least, the number of floors of the structure should be reduced to what the developer was originally entitled to. Under Manila’s local zoning ordinances, the tower should have been allowed to build up to only seven floors,” she explained. Based on the latest construction update posted on the DMCI website, the tower is already 32 stories high. ”We can see how it obscures the monument now. We could only imagine how it would dwarf the shrine even more when all 49 floors are completed,” Cayetano warned. “The Rizal Monument deserves our utmost respect, and must be preserved for the generations of Filipinos to come,” she added.(MNS)

Congress to honor winning Filipino filmmaker MANILA, Jan 2 (Mabuhay) – The House of Representatives is set to honor writer and director Jason Paul Laxamana whose film “Magkakabaung” (The Coffin Maker) won the Best Asian Film Award for the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema (NETPAC) category in the 3rd Hanoi International Film Festival (HANIFF) held in Hanoi, Vietnam on November 27, 2014. The 3rd Hanoi International Film Festival was organized by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in conjunction with the Hanoi People’s Committee, the municipal department of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Vietnam Cinema Department. It kicked off in Hanoi on November 23 with the theme “Cinema – Integration and Sustainable Development”. In House Resolution 1744, Rep. Winston Castelo (2nd Dist., Quezon City) said out of 411 movies submitted from all over the world, 130 from 32 countries and territories were selected to attend the festival. They competed in different categories including Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, Best Feature Film Director, Best Short Film Director, Best Actor and Actress in Leading Roles. The films were screened in National Cinema Centre, Cineplex CGV Vincom Centre, CGV Cinema Mipec Tower, August Cinema and Kim Dong Theatre with free admission. Vietnam sent two feature films and 12 short films to the festival. According to Castelo, aside from the competition, a number of activities were held on the sidelines of the event, including a workshop on cooperation on film production, a conference on independent film production and experience from the Philippines, a film project market, HANIFF 2014 Campus for talents and an exhibition to introduce Vietnam’s film scene and popular destinations. The Coffin Maker, produced in the Kapampangan language, tells the story of

a casket factory worker, played by actor Allen Dizon, who brought up his eightyear old daughter alone after his wife left him, and then accidentally caused the death of the girl by administering the wrong medication. It presented the coffin maker’s attempts at erasing his guilt and remorse even as he faced difficulties in getting his daughter’s body discharged from the hospital and buried her. Dizon won the Best Actor Award for this film. He won his first international Best Actor award for the same movie at the 9th Harlem International Film Festival in New York held on September 14, 2014. Meanwhile, this was the very first international film award for Laxamana, who graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication, and champions locally produced films by organizing film festivals and workshops. He is currently the Luzon Representative of the National Committee on Cinema (NCCA SCA). According to the Cinemalaya’s website, while an undergraduate student, he became a production assistant under directors Jeffrey Jeturian and Maryo J. De Los Reyes. He worked as script supervisor in Star Cinema’s “A Love Story,” a 2007 film by De Los Reyes. In 2008, he worked in the same position in Brillante Mendoza’s “Serbis.” After making various Kapampangan short films and music videos in his home province, he made his first feature film in 2010 when his screenplay for “Astro Mayabang” became a finalist in the Cinema One Originals Gil Festival in 2010, which won the Audience Choice Award. In 2012, he successfully completed the Star Cinema Scriptwriting Workshop under Ricky Lee and Amor Olaguer. “Laxamana deserves all the praises, honors and recognition for bringing pride, glory and honor to the country,” Castelo said. (MNS)

Wreath laying at the Rizal Monument in City of Carson Philippine Consul General Leo Herrera Lim (right, top photo) and City of Carson Mayor Pro Tem Elito Santarina (left top photo) during wreath laying ceremonies at the Rizal Monument in the Carson International Sculpture Garden last December 30. With Lim and Santarina were Knights of Rizal Sir Chito Mandap, JPRMM Chairman and KOR CA Western USA Area Cmdr.; Sir Tony Berango, CA Chapter Cmdr and KOR CA Western Dep Cmdr.; Atty: Antero Pagunsan, JPRMM Vice-Chairman; Josie De Jesus, KALAYAAN 2015 VP/VC, and Lydia V. Solis, Master of Ceremonies. The National Anthems/Patriotic Song were sung by Sam Santiago and Manny Q. Evaldez of God Bless Fil - USA. Photos: Joe Cobilla/FPPP

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Toyota decks the halls with IIHS 2015‘Top Safety Pick’awards Eight Toyota and Lexus models earn Institute’s Highest Top Safety Pick+; Four Toyota and Scion vehicles named Top Safety Picks TORRANCE, Calif., Dec. 23, 2014 — On the 12th day of Christmas, the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) gave to Toyota, 12 awards awarding. In fact, the automaker won more awards than any other automaker, including the most of the Institute’s highest honor. In all, eight Toyota and Lexus vehicles earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating. IIHS in particular recognized the Prius V for its significantly improved performance all-around in the small overlap crash test – naming it a Top Safety Pick+. The Toyota Sienna was also the only minivan awarded

the 2015 Top Safety Pick + designation. IIHS also recognized four additional Toyota and Scion vehicles as 2015 Top Safety Picks. Toyota’s twelve awards overall were the most in the industry for 2015. “At Toyota, our focus remains on the safety and peace of mind of our customers,” said Dino Triantafyllos, Toyota’s North American Chief Quality Officer. “We’re pleased the IIHS has recognized the strong and improved safety performance of our vehicles in a range of crash tests.” 2015 Toyota / Lexus Top Safety Pick+ winners are: Lexus CT (built after Sept. 2014), Toyota Prius, Toyota Camry, Toyota Prius v, Lexus RC, Toyota Highlander, Lexus NX and Toyota Sienna. 2015 Toyota / Scion Top Safety Pick Winners are: Toyota/Scion: Scion FR-S, Scion tC, Toyota Avalon and, Toyota RAV4

(built after Nov. 2014). Meanwhile, the 2015 Toyota Prius c (c for city) rings in the new year with an aggressive, sportier look, upgraded interior features and available advanced technology features. Toyota today announced manufacturers’ suggested retail prices (MSRP) for the refreshed 2015 Prius c. The base MSRP for the 2015 Prius c will range from $19,540 for the Prius c One to $24,475 for the premium Prius c Four. The 2015 Prius c will begin arriving at dealerships in late December. H i g h M P G E q u a l s H i g h Va l u e Toyota’s most affordable hybrid vehicle is also its most fuel efficient. The Prius c, with EPA-estimated 53 MPG city / 46 MPG highway / 50 MPG combined, offers the highest city MPG of any vehicle on the road today (MPGe vehicles not included). In addition to high MPG comes excite-

ment. The stylish exterior of the 2015 Prius c features new standard single LED projector low and high-beam headlights and LED tail and stoplights, and new exterior colors whose names demand almost as much attention as their hues (Electric Lime Metallic, Tangerine Splash Pearl and Sparkling Sea Metallic). Add to that a cabin upgraded with premium materials, and Prius c makes a compelling choice among compact cars, hybrid or not. The 2015 Prius c updates also include available piano black and chrome interior trim, a simplified grade strategy, an additional two-tone fabric option, and Entune Audio. Additionally, the Prius cFour now comes with a standard power tilt/slide moonroof and integrated backup camera. Each Prius c grade comes with an array of standard features to meet the needs of a wide range of buyers.

Which cars will be Detroit stars? (Relaxnews) – The 2015 North America International Auto Show is less than a month away, and while it is usually the flagship event for the unveiling of new cars from Ford, GM and Chrysler, European carmakers are planning on muscling in. As well as a specially designed show car – Audi can always be relied upon for a great concept car at every major motoring event – the company will officially unveil its new range topping, seven-seat Q7 SUV. There’s also a good chance that it will be launching a new entry-level sub-compact off-roader, too, the Q1. But new SUVs are going to be in plentiful supply at the show. Mercedes will be show-

ing off the GLC Coupé – the off-roading equivalent of a fastback – and a car designed to compete directly with the BMW X6. There’s also a strong possibility that a near-production version of Maserati’s first SUV could put in an appearance. An off-roader infused with Maserati’s Milanese style could well turn heads but if the rumors are true, it will be Fordthat stands the biggest chance of giving attendees whiplash with an all-new GT supercar. But if a new Ford GT fails to materialize, Cadillac has something up its sleeve in the form of the CTS-V that might well make up for the disappointment. The most powerful car in the company’s 112-year history, it

has 640hp on tap, a 200mph top speed and its makers have made absolutely no secret of the fact that it was built specifically to run rings around everything from the BMW M5 to the Bentley Continental GT V8. There is a long history of muscle cars and super sedans making their debut at Detroit, but the world’s supercar makers like to keep their latest editions under wraps until Geneva (the motor show for the 1%) in March. However, Honda will be breaking that tradition by officially unveiling the long-awaited replacement for its original Ferrari-baiting Acura NSX. The new car, which has been in development for more than three years and which will be built in the US, will boast two electric

motors and a twin turbocharged V6 sending power to all four wheels and promises to be a serious driver’s car. Chevrolet is also taking the wraps off its latest hybrid in Detroit but unlike the NSX, the second-generation Volt will be focused on sustainability and lowering harmful emissions. Expect a better range on electriconly power and a higher level of cabin trim. Other potential highlights of the 2015 show include the hottest version yet of the new Mini—the John Cooper Works edition. It promises to be the fastest and most potent production Mini in history but one that offers all of that extra power without stripping down the cabin to the bare minimum. It will be as comfortable and high-tech as it is sporty.

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The new BMW 6 Series: Three body styles rejuvenated and ready to take on the competition Woodcliff Lake, N.J. - December 10, 2014 – Through three generations, the BMW 6 Series has defined that unique blend of style and elegance with the performance and handling that one would expect of The Ultimate Driving MachineTM. For the 2016 model year the third-generation of BMW 6 Series receives a range of enhancements that refine the character that is unique to the 6 Series. Now offered in three distinct body styles – traditional two-door Coupe, open-air Convertible and unique four-door Gran Coupe – all three are again offered with a choice of BMW TwinPower Turbo engines, the 315 horsepower inline-six in the 640i models and the 445 horsepower V8 in the 650i models. Sitting at the top of the 6 Series range, in terms power and performance, is the BMW M6 with its 560 horsepower M TwinPower Turbo V8, again available in all three body styles. The 2016 BMW 6 Series will make its world debut at the North American International Auto Show and arrives in US showrooms in the second quarter of 2015. Sports performance and luxury – a combination rich in tradition. The new BMW 6 Series model range follows in a BMW tradition of legendary dream cars which now stretches back more than 75 years. Presented in 1937, the BMW 327 Sports Coupe was the most exclusive model in the company’s line-up at the time. Then came the BMW 503 Coupe and BMW 507 Roadster, which were powered by the car world’s first aluminum eight-cylinder engine and continue as 1950s style icons to this day. Later on, the BMW 2800 CS of 1968 pulled back the curtain on an era of luxury cars which took a whole new approach to combining sports performance and luxury. The BMW 3.0 CS, BMW 3.0 CSi and BMW 3.0 CSL followed in the tire tracks of the 2800 CS. Designed for action in motor sport, the legendary BMW 3.0 CSL enjoyed several years of dominance on the racing stage. On the road, meanwhile, the CS in any form represented a beacon of style and an expression of unparalleled driving pleasure. Since 1976 these unmistakable characteristics have been grouped together in the BMW line-up under the model designation “6”. The first-generation BMW 6 Series shone not only for its driving dynamics, but also its comfort and state-of-the-art safety technology. Its successor, unveiled in 2003, complemented its dynamic appearance with a wealth of innovations. The debut of the BMW 6 Series Convertible in 2004 brought a unique blend of advanced technology, driving pleasure in an exclusive sports car and open-top enjoyment. One model series, three different characters The latest generation of the BMW 6 Series takes the dynamics, aesthetics, luxury and innovation offered by the model series to new heights. The BMW 6 Series Convertible, Coupe and Gran Coupe provide customers with a choice of three distinctive characters, the introduction of the brand’s first ever fourdoor Coupe giving the BMW 6 Series’ popularity fresh momentum. Nearly one in two newly registered BMW 6 Series cars is now a Gran Coupe. Worldwide, approximately 80,000 units of the current-generation BMW 6 Series have been sold since the market launch of the Convertible in March 2011.

The new BMW 6 Series Convertible is all about exclusive open-top driving enjoyment, comprising serene ride comfort and engaging performance attributes in equal measure. A key element of the four-seater’s charisma is the transition between the body and the interior, which has been designed to evoke the character of a boat deck – as is typical of BMW Convertibles – when the roof is down. The sophisticated fabric soft-top of the 6 Series Convertible stands out with its unique “fin” architecture, complete with a glass rear window that opens separately, and offers all-season usability and unrivalled acoustic comfort. The new BMW 6 Series Coupe embodies the classical character of an exclusive sports tourer. Its two-door body exudes an athletic and elegant aesthetic while its modern interior ambience is designed to immerse four people in complete luxury. The latest round of design and powertrain upgrades lends to the Coupe’s muscular appearance and sporting potential.

The BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe conjures up a new balance of dynamic excellence, elegance and luxury. The latest addition to the BMW 6 Series range blends the sporting performance and aesthetics of a coupe with the extended functionality of a four-door. Its distinctive proportions and longer wheelbase accentuate the exterior’s irresistible radiance. The interior of the BMW 6 Series Gran Coupe delivers luxurious long-distance comfort for the driver and passengers in four full-size seats and offers a third seat in the rear that is suitable for shorter journeys. Detail refinements showcase both the elegance of the body design and the exclusive ambience of the interior. More powerful, sportier, sharper: BMW kidney grille and front apron All the models in the new BMW 6 Series line-up stand out with an adeptly modified design that exudes powerful sports performance and, at the same time, emphasizes the exclusive elegance of these luxury cars. The BMW kidney grille – standing prominently, as ever – is now even more eye-catching. The number of bars in the kidney grille has been reduced from 10 to nine, and the larger openings are an indication of the amount of cooling air required by the powerful engines. The new contours of the kidney grille bars (in aluminum matt on the 650i variants and black on 640i models) underline the forward-surging stance of the grille.

The new front apron, whose lower air intake is now a single stylistic unit that accentuates the 6 Series’ width, radiates sports performance and solidity. The front foglamps, which are positioned at the far outer edges of the front end, consist of three adjacent LED units and now feature a decorative surround. This trim element is chrome on the new BMW 6 Series Convertible and comes in high-gloss black for the new 6 Series Coupe and Gran Coupe. The standard Adaptive Full-LED headlights on the new BMW 6 Series line-up include a newly developed, sophisticated design for the light sources. This has brought about a new interpretation of the signature BMW look created by the twin round headlights. The low beam light is emitted from the two upper reflectors, the high beam light from the two lower reflectors. The indicators are now integrated into the accent strip cutting across the top of the headlight units. For more information on the all new BMW 6 Series:, please call our kababayans Ed at 818-601-5667 (cell) and Ronald at 323-683-9351 (cell) or call Pacific BMW at (818) 246-5600 and come down to the dealership located at 800 S. Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91204 and find out why. Who knows you may be the next new BMW owner? Or you may want to upgrade. Of course, we don’t need to mention that BMW is a favorite brand for luxury vehicles for the Fil-Am community, which is one of the car brand’s biggest consumer group in Southern California.

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New 2015 Nissan Versa Sedan features updated exterior appearance, refined interior As the best-selling vehicle for four years in a row in the highly competitive sub-compact segment, the Nissan Versa Sedan could rest on its reputation for value, roominess and mid-size vehicle technology without a mid-size price. Yet the quest for constant improvement continues. Following the introduction of an allnew Versa Note hatchback for the 2014 model year, the Versa Sedan receives an extensive makeover for 2015 – including new front and rear fascias, a range of interior refinements, and new grade level and packaging content. The starting price of $11,990* is unchanged, despite adding a refreshed exterior and interior along with standard Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System. “Versa Sedan is the entry point for the dynamic Nissan sedan lineup, attracting many first-time new car buyers to the brand,” said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan North America, Inc. “It’s critical that we keep Versa’s look and feel fresh and its value equation high, with a rewarding driving and ownership experience.” A Refreshed Exterior Most prominent of the changes to the 2015 Versa Sedan is the bold new front end treatment anchored by larger headlights, a more substantial looking fascia and standard chrome plating on the grille – all of which strengthen the family ties of the Versa Sedan with the Nissan stable mates – Sentra, Altima and Maxima. The list of exterior upgrades also includes a new fog light finisher design, new side mirror designs for SV and SL trim levels (with integrated turn signals for SL), and a more dynamic rear fascia

design. A new, Versa Sedan-exclusive 15inch V-spoke aluminum-alloy wheel design is also available with SV models. The 2015 Versa Sedan is offered in two new exterior colors: Graphite Blue and Amethyst Gray – along with Metallic Blue, Super Black, Brilliant Silver, Red Brick, Fresh Powder and Titanium. For 2015, Versa Sedan again offers fivepassenger practicality with a high degree of comfort and refinement – the perfect combination for commuting on weekdays, running errands on weekends and transporting family and friends all week long. Enhancements for the 2015 model year include a new center stack shape, which is similar to that found on the sporty Versa Note, a revised meter display with white LED display (previously orange illumination color) and a new, more substantial, steering wheel with standard audio and Bluetooth® Hands-free Phone System controls. All 2015 Versa Sedans continue to provide a roomy interior volume of 90.2 cubic feet, with more rear legroom than many mid-size sedans. Trunk volume measures 14.9 cubic feet. The trunk design itself focuses on useable space, taking into

consideration everything from the size of the hinges to the shape of the sidewalls. A 60/40-split fold-down rear seat is standard on SV and SL models for even greater cargo versatility. Two interior colors are available, Sandstone (SV and SL only) and Charcoal (all trim levels). Advanced Engine Technology and an Efficient V-Platform The 2015 Versa Sedan utilizes Nissan’s global lightweight “V” platform and is powered by a 1.6-liter HR16DE 4-cylinder engine rated at 109 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 107 lb-ft of torque at 4,400 rpm. The engine features a range of fuel efficiency enhancing technologies, including a dual injector system that allows a wider injection of fuel than a traditional singleinjection system. The smaller nozzles deliver a finer spray to help achieve stable combustion. Using CVTCS on the exhaust camshaft increases thermal efficiency, decreases inhalation resistance and offers an approximate four percent improvement in fuel efficiency (over the previous engine design). The engine also includes a piston oiling jet, specially tuned piston top shape and expanded exhaust manifold diameter. The 1.6-liter engine is matched with a choice of three transmissions – a 5-speed manual transmission or 4-speed automatic (S models only), or a next-generation Xtronic transmission with D-mode step shift programming. The Xtronic design allows continuous change of the transmission gear ratio by connecting the two pulleys with a metallic belt and changing their diameter by using hydraulic pressure. It incorporates an auxiliary planetary gearbox to broaden the effective gear ratio

helping improve efficiency. The Xtronic transmission’s gear ratio of 7.3:1 is broader than those of typical 7-speed automatic transmissions. Fuel economy for the 2015 Versa Sedan is rated at 31 mpg city, 40 mpg highway and 35 mpg combined with the Xtronic transmission. Versa Sedan models equipped with the 5-speed manual offers 27 mpg city, 36 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined, while the 4-speed automaticequipped models are rated at 26 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 30 mpg combined. If you want to find out more about Nissan Versa, 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 818943-5471 (for Augusto) and 818-442-1983 (for Marie). Nissan of Van Nuys is located at 5425 Van Nuys Blvd., Van Nuys, CA CA 91401.

Cristina Madlangbayan, Internet Director, Nissan of Van Nuys

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Significantly enhanced 2015 Honda CR-V earns a 2015 Top Safety Pick+ rating TORRANCE, Calif. Dec 22, 2014 – America’s bestselling SUV for the past decade1 raises the bar for 2015 with numerous safety-performance updates Available Honda Sensing™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies combines camera and radar systems to help detect vehicles, pedestrians and roadway markings Honda’s vision is to reduce collisions, injuries and fatalities involving our vehicles leveraging Honda Sensing™ technology The 2015 Honda CR-V (automobiles.honda.com/ cr-v/), Motor Trend Sport/Utility of the Year and the topselling SUV in America for the past decade1, has received a 2015 TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) when equipped with optional front crash prevention. This distinction includes a top rating of GOOD in five IIHS crash test modes including a GOOD score in the Insurance Institute’s stringent small overlap frontal crash test. The 2015TOP SAFETY PICK+ designation is awarded to vehicles that also have an available front crash prevention system that earns a superior or advanced rating from the Institute. The 2015 CR-V offers an available frontal crash prevention system that earns a top rating of superior. A new Touring trim for the 2015 CR-V is the first Honda to apply the new Honda Sensing™ suite of safety and driver assistive technologies that can help improve drivers’ situational awareness. This includes the first application of two advanced driver-assistive technologies – Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (CMBS™) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW) and Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS) – to a Honda vehicle, and the first application of Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and LaneWatch™ to CR-V. These systems benefit from the adoption of new sensor fusion technology that integrates the capabilities of a windshieldmounted monocular camera and front grille-mounted millimeter wave radar system to provide enhanced sensing with the ability to identify and anticipate multiple collision scenarios, including ones involving a pedestrian. When the system anticipates a collision, it can initiate warnings and, in some cases, initiate emergency braking. “Honda’s vision to one day eliminate traffic-related collisions, injuries and fatalities is at the heart of our commitment to safety,” said Art St. Cyr, vice president of auto operations at American Honda. “Our continued innovation in active safety and assistive technologies with the application of Honda Sensingbrings Honda, our customers and everyone else on the road one step closer to this goal.” The 2015 CR-V with Honda Sensing™ is on the

leading-edge of this initiative. The 2015 CR-V also ap- of all Honda vehicles sold in U.S. were made in North plies Honda’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility America, using domestic and globally sourced parts. Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, which improves Meanwhile, if you want to belong to the select group crashworthiness through a broader array of frontal small of Honda owners, all you have to do is visit the Diamond overlap and oblique crash scenarios. Overall, the CR-V Honda of Glendale and get in touch with our kababayans body has received more than 60 engineering changes to Tito Adriosula, Cruzella Clemente and Orly Roque, who improve stiffness and collision performance, including a are more than ready to serve you and find you your new strengthened door frames and side frames under the front Honda Hybrids or any other Honda vehicle and be assured fenders. of top fuel efficiency as well as safety and maintenance. This enhanced side frame design ties into the main These are just some of the reasons why Pinoys come to frame rail, producing an additional load path for energy the dealership. Above all, at Diamond Honda of Glendale, absorption, and aims to improve safety for both the oc- customers are treated like Diamonds! That statement is cupants of the Honda vehicle and the occupants of the backed up by General Manager Philip Keung, who has other vehicles involved in a collision. Standard safety endeared himself to Filipino customers because of his equipment on all Honda models include Vehicle Stability professionalism and his recognition and vast understandAssist (VSA) electronic stability control system, Anti-lock ing of Honda’s multi-ethnic market. “He is a great anchor. Braking System (ABS) with Brake Assist, frontal airbags, We rely on his wisdom and professional savvy all the time. side airbags, side-curtain airbags and a front seat design He is very helpful to the Filipino salesmen and customers that can help reduce the severity of neck injury in the event alike,” says Tito. Diamond Honda of Glendale is located at of a rear collision. 138 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205. Its toll-free Honda is also leading the industry in the deployment of number is 1.866.237.7092. rearview cameras, which are standard equipment on all model year 2015 Honda vehicles (having been offered on more than 95 percent of model year 2014 vehicles). The 2015 CR-V is manufactured exclusively for the North American market at Honda plants in the U.S., Canada and Mexico using domestic and globally sourced parts. Honda has the longest-lasting cars of any mainstream automotive brand in America, and more models achieving an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating than any other automotive nameplate. Honda has been producing automobiles in America for more than 30 years and currently operates 16 major manufacturing facilities in North America. In 2013, more than 94 percent 2015 Honda CR-V

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2015 Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander and Outlander Sport named IIHS award winners 7-passenger Outlander named an IIHS “Top Safety Pick+”; 5-passenger Outlander Sport designated an IIHS “Top Safety Pick”; Lancer compact sports sedan earns an IIHS “Top Safety Pick” rating Dec 23, 2014 – Today a pair of Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) crossovers – the 2015 Outlander and 2015 Outlander Sport – and the 2015 Lancer compact sports sedan (except Ralliart and Evolution) were named “Top Safety Pick” award recipients by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS), an independent non-profit scientific and educational organization that researches, performs evaluations and assesses safety ratings in crash testing of production vehicles. The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander was designated a “Top Safety Pick+” rated vehicle by the IIHS – the highest safety award designation offered by the organization – because of the availability of Forward Collision Mitigation (FCM) technology that alerts drivers to a potential frontal collision with visual and audio alerts and automatically applies emergency braking to reduce the severity of the collision or help avoid it altogether. The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport

earned an IIHS “Top Safety Pick” rating, marking the fourth straight year that the brand’s best-selling vehicle has achieved this safety designation, while the 2015 Mitsubishi Lancer was named a “Top Safety Pick” for the seventh consecutive year. “Thanks to our advanced high-tech engineering and safety features, the Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander and Outlander Sport have consistently achieved high IIHS safety ratings,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President of MMNA. “The Mitsubishi RISE safety body construction system is the perfect example of this kind of technology. In the event of an accident, energy is absorbed and deflected away from the occupant cell, which enhances passenger protection.” Additional standard safety features found on the Mitsubishi Lancer, Outlander and Outlander Sport include seven air

bags, Active Stability Control, Traction Control Logic, Tire Pressure Monitoring System, and Anti-lock braking system with Electronic brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist. Earlier, Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, an important resource of automotive information and vehicle valuations, has named Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.’s (MMNA) popular Outlander Sport 5-passenger compact crossover/SUV to its “10 Best Back-to-School Cars of 2014” list. According to Kelley Blue Book’s KBB. com, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport is “one of the most affordable crossovers you can buy” and is also “among the most stylish.” KBB.com further remarked that the Outlander Sport “balances a fun demeanor with the peace of mind of a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty.”

With a starting MSRP of only $19,595, the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport makes an ideal first car for young drivers, offering outstanding fuel economy of up to 32 mpg. Available in either front-wheel drive or equipped with Mitsubishi Motors’ highly capable All Wheel Control all-wheel drive system, the 2015 Outlander Sport can be configured with a 5-speed manual transmission or the advanced, next-generation continuously-variable transmission (CVT) that mimics a precision 7-speed transmission. Other new standard features include a new audio trim panel, next-generation Electric Power Steering and insulation materials for less noise intrusion. If you want to know why the Mitsubishi is up in its sales and why the Outlander and Lancer are two of America’s top Mitsubishi vehicles or why they are the choice of many of our kababayans – nostalgia perhaps? – who are looking for reliability, efficiency and comfort, call Richard Samaco, Cesar Macandili or Mark De Leon the dealership’s Filipino salespersons at Glendale Mitsubishi at (888) 465-7218. Glendale Mitsubishi, a favorite car dealership among Filipino-Americans, is located at 1235 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA, 91204. Call now or come and visit our kababayans for a closer look at the new Mitsubishi vehicles. What’s more, test drive a Mitsubishi and you can get a three day/two night stay in

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