Weekend balita july 11, 2015

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Julie Anne impresses US music producer See JULIE ANN page 17

VOL. XXIII, NO. 23

Palace defends hiring of foreign lawyers for PHL case vs. China MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) – Can foreign lawyers competently defend the Philippines’ arbitration case challenging China’s massive claim on resource-rich parts of the South China Sea? Malacañang on Wednesday vouched for the competence of lawyers from the United States and the United Kingdom hired by the Philippines to help argue its case before the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague, Netherlands.

At a press briefing, presidential spokesman Sec. Edwin Lacierda said these foreign lawyers already have experience in facing the arbitral tribunal.

“These are lawyers who have international reputation appearing before the tribunal. We can rely on them.

They’ve been with us from the start, since we filed the case,” Lacierda told reporters on Wednesday afternoon.

Asked why the government did not opt for an all-Filipino delegation, Lacierda replied, “We have the knowledge, but in so far as appearing before international tribunal, you get the best persons you can hire for that.”

“It will be foolhardy for us not to hire experts with experience with appearing before this tribunal,” he added.

On Tuesday, the Philippine delegaSee FOREIGN LAWYERS, page 9

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China’s claims in West Philippine Sea ‘illegal’ PHL delegation says maritime laws at stake

Los Angeles Fil-Am resident Rizal Reyes (inset) says he was given the “1734” Philippine map 10 years ago during a trip in Barcelona, Spain. Photo: Abner Galino

The Hague, Netherlands (AFP) Wednesday 7/8/2015 – The Philippines has appealed to an international tribunal to declare China’s claims to most of the South China Sea illegal, warning the integrity of United Nations’ maritime laws is at stake.

In opening comments to the tribunal in the Hague on Tuesday, Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said the Philippines had sought judicial intervention because China’s behavior had become increasingly “aggressive” and negotiations had proved futile.

Del Rosario said the UN’s Convention on the Law of the Sea, which the PhilipSee ILLEGAL, page 9

Senior expat takes pride in his ‘1734’ PHL map copy ‘Document’ portends to show what belongs to China, what’s ours

By Abner T. Galino

It is certainly more than an amusing coincidence to find a burning fervor for the motherland on an expatriate named Rizal Reyes, a senior in his middle 80’s and a resident of mid-city Los Angeles.

He confirmed that his father was indeed a fan of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. But, – here comes the surprise – he was not a Rizal fan but of Andres Bonifacio, and for the same reasons just like many other Filipinos who favor the plebeian over the intellectual nationalist.

Of course, Rizal and Bonifacio were never rivals. The debate on who should be crowned national hero came up during the American occupation of the Philippines. Rizal eventually got the prime spot at Luneta, aptly named Rizal Park, while Bonifacio got to stand in front of the Phil-

ippine Post Office building (which is just about four miles away). And so it came to be that the lovers would head to Luneta while the marchers who seek redress from government would gather at Liwasang Bonifacio. As far as politics is concerned, we know which of the two places became more exciting and relevant.

But this story is not about Rizal and Bonifacio. This story is about patriotism and a map, although not an original map but a copy of a 1734 map of the Philippines.

Reyes believes his copy, which was about the size of a bond paper (about 8 x 11 inches), was published around the late 1700. We have no way to confirm his theory. Although he was right to say that the printing technology already had the capability to make copies during that period.

The former chef obtained his copy dur-

ing a trip to Barcelona, Spain ten years ago.

He narrated that he went inside an antique shop looking for a book about bull fighting and instead chanced upon an atlas. It was not a big book and as Reyes examined it, he discovered that it had the Philippine map as its centerfold.

Reyes said he acquired the book for a song.

“Nung malaman niya nung may-ari na Pilipino ako, binigay na lang sa akin yung libro,” Reyes recounted.

Unfortunately, Reyes was not able to save the entire book.

“Medyo naging pabaya ako. Pero itong mapa na lang naitabi ko.”

Expectedly, what prompted him to come out with his treasured map has to do with his strong feelings about the terSee 1734 MAP, page 11

Jeane Napoles refuses to enter plea for tax evasion case MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) – Jeane Catherine Napoles on Wednesday refused to enter plea for her P17.46-million nonpayment of income tax case with the Court of Tax Appeals (CTA).

“As advised by my legal counsel, I refuse to enter any plea,” Napoles told the justices of the CTA Third Division during her arraignment.

The court in turn entered a “not guilty” plea on her behalf.

Wearing a hooded black jacket and black pants, Napoles, together with her lawyers, immediately left the courtroom after her arraignment. She refused to answer questions from the media.

Napoles had earlier refused to enter a plea during her arraignment for the nonfiling of income tax return (ITR) case also pending with the Third Division.

During that time, Third Division member Associate Justice Esperanza FabonVictorino announced that the court has granted Napoles’ motion to consolidate her cases involving the non-filing of ITR and her non-payment of income tax. The second case was originally set to be handled by the First Division.

Meanwhile, Lanee David, one of Napoles’ lawyers, informed the court that they have filed on Tuesday a motion for reconsideration on the court’s earlier ruling finding probable ground to try Napoles for both cases.

The court in turn gave the prosecution 10 days to comment on the defense’s motion.

The Third Division has set the preliminary conference of both the non-filing of ITR and the non-payment of income tax

cases on July 14 and the pre-trial conference on July 29 Napoles had posted bail amounting to P25,000 for each case even before the Third and First Divisions could issue warrants for her arrest.

In September last year, the Department of Justice filed a tax evasion case against Napoles with the CTA for her failure to pay more than P17 million in taxes despite her ownership of pieces of property in the US and the Philippines.

Due to her non-payment and because of interest, her liability has ballooned to P32 million.

The case stemmed from a tax evasion case filed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue last year for the younger Napoles’ alleged failure to file income tax returns See NAPOLES, page 10

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12 reasons to call me; My number is below Your first step in overcoming debt problems is recognizing you have a problem! If worries about your credit card bills or a pending foreclosure are keeping you awake at night, you probably already know you’re in over your head. Just cruising along, juggling credit cards, taking from one to pay the other is not a viable answer. So if this describes your situation, then take not, because just doing nothing makes the hole bigger and your position more desperate.

Here are 12 signs that indi

cate financial stress: You routinely spend more than you a portion of the debts, based in part on earn. the value of non-exempt assets, and their You only make the minimum payment disposable income, left over from normal required on your credit cards. living expenses. Say that you have $100.00 Your credit limit is frequently maxed in disposable income. You would have to out on most of your cards. pay that into a plan for 60 months. After 60 You’re unsure about how much you months, the balance of your debts would owe or what may be on your credit report. be discharged in full, even if they are far You skip payments on some bills in from being paid off. order to pay others, or use cash advances One should keep in mind that there are on one credit card to pay off another. intricate details to the legal process that You find yourself arguing with your need to be taken into consideration before spouse over money. decisions are made to file for bankruptcy.

You have recently been turned down for Who qualifies? Which kind would apply to credit or a loan. you? Will you be able to keep all of your You panic when faced with an unex- property? There are many such questions pected expense, such as a car repair. that arise in such a situation. In this situYou owe more on your car than it’s ation, you need to consult with an experiworth. enced bankruptcy law firm that can guide There’s no more equity in your house. you through these complicated decisions Creditors are calling you about overdue and procedures. bills.

Filing for bankruptcy may not be the You are either thinking about bank- solution to all your financial problems ruptcy or a divorce. though. In fact, bankruptcy does not cover We have all heard about bankruptcy, all debts. For example, debts related to but what does it mean? What are the im- child and spouse support, or taxes are not plications? As is to be expected, filing for covered in bankruptcy. bankruptcy can be complicated, unless you Do you have a Co-signer? have professional help to walk you through Before filing for bankruptcy it is imthe process. portant to know that your co-signer might Simply put, bankruptcy can be defined be held liable for the co-signed debt. A as the legal process thorough which indi- Chapter 13 bankruptcy will protect your viduals or businesses in financial trouble co-signer though, since it offers a partial are able to work out their debts and pay repayment plan. With a Chapter 7 bankthem out under the protection of the ruptcy, only the debtor is protected and the bankruptcy court. Often “liquidations” or co-signer will still be liable for the debt. “reorganizations” are the words that are With Chapter 7 bankruptcy, the creditors used to sum up the process that unfolds will still have the right to demand that when you file for bankruptcy. your co-signer pay off the outstanding The two kinds of bankruptcy that you payments. can file for are Chapter 7 and Chapter Under chapter 13 bankruptcy, as long as 13. There are various factors that would the bankruptcy plan is active the co-signers determine whether you should opt for the will receive a stay. All the same, when the one or the other. plan closes, the co-signer is once again liThrough Chapter 7 Bankruptcy, you able to pay any outstanding payments, even liquidate all unsecured debt, and hopefully though the debt is discharged in favor of protect any assets you have within the the bankruptcy debtor. bankruptcy exemption rules. Most people Don’t lose another sleepless night! For are protected, because they don’t have any solutions to all of your financial problems, non-exempt assets. and rebuilding your credit, contact the law In the event debtor is making too offices of Paul M. Allen. I promise that help much money, they choose Chapter 13 is just a phone call away. Consultations are Bankruptcy, which is the reorganization free, but by appointment only. Call today type of bankruptcy. The debtor is allowed at 818-552-4500. We have two locations: three to five years over which to pay back Glendale and La Palma.

Customs contractor faces P271-M tax evasion case MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – A contractor of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) was charged with tax evasion before the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Thursday for “willful attempt to evade or defeat tax, and deliberate failure to supply correct and accurate information in his income tax returns and quarterly value-added tax returns.”

Israel R. San Jose, sole proprietor of Manila-based ISJ Builders and Design, was charged by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for an aggregate deficiency tax liability amounting to P271.02-million for taxable years 2009 up to 2012. San Jose is engaged in architectural, engineering activities, and technical consultancy business.

BIR Commissioner Kim Henares said a letter request was sent to the BOC for certified true copies of disbursement vouchers showing details of payments, check vouchers, official receipts/invoices issued by San Jose, as well as their signed contract. It was found, based on a certification issued by the BOC on June 30, 2015, that San Jose received income payments amounting to P55.60-million in 2009; P68.10-million in 2010; P98.80-million in 2011; and P96.39-million in 2012, according to Henares.

San Jose, however, allegedly declared gross income of only P8.79-million in 2009; P11.39-million in 2010; P10.98-million in 2011; and P10.48-million in 2012.

The BIR complaint stated that San Jose “substantially underdeclared” his correct taxable income by 532 percent or P46.81-million in 2009; by 498 percent or P56.70million in 2010; by 800 percent or P87.82-million in 2011; and by 820 percent or P85.91-million in 2012.

The complaint against San Jose is among the 371st up to 377th filed by the BIR under its Run After Tax Evaders (RATE) program under the administration of Pres.

Noynoy Aquino.(MNS)

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State regulator adopts new rate structure for residential customers The commission’s decision helps align rates with the cost of service

By Lauren Bartlett

Southern California Edison July 07, 2015 – During the energy crisis in 2001, the California Public Utilities Commission adopted a tiered residential rate structure that had unintended consequences — high-usage customers have been paying large subsidies, and low-usage customers have benefited for 15 years.

Recognizing the growing unfairness, the commission adopted a new rate structure on July 3that is more cost-based, and it will provide customers living in high-temperature areas long-overdue relief from punitive high electric rates. The commission was empowered to make the changes after the Legislature approved AB 327 in 2013, which enabled commissioners to change the rate structure that had been frozen during the energy crisis.

Russ Garwacki, SCE director of Pricing Design and Research, explains what the commission’s decision does – and what it doesn’t do.

Q. There have been reports of widespread, large rate increases for low-usage customers, with some asserting it’s a giveaway to the wealthy. Is that true?

A. There is a lot of misunderstanding about the commission’s new rate structure.

We are now carefully studying the decision to find out what the financial impacts will be on about 4.3 million residential customers, and we will have that information soon. What is important to understand is the single biggest impact happened in 2014 when low-usage customers began to pay rates more aligned with the cost to provide them with electric service. The monthly bill impacts were small, about $3 a month for low-usage customers. Some people have mischaracterized the size of the impacts because they don’t understand what the changes were and what the future changes will be.

Q: Why did it take so long to change the rate structure?

A: The rate structure created during the energy crisis was frozen in 2001 by the

Legislature. Over time, with the frozen lower-tier rates, the rate structure departed increasingly from any cost basis and imposed ever greater inequities on largefamily households that were pushed into higher tiers in hot climates. The decision helps align rates with the cost of service.

Q: Under the new rate structure, will low-usage customers be subsidizing wealthy customers?

A. There are wealthy customers who are large users, just as there are wealthy lowusage customers. There are two different issues here. First, low-usage customers won’t be subsidizing other customers – this new structure partially corrects the subsidy low-usage customers have been enjoying for 15 years. Since 2001, many of their costs were paid by other customers. Under the new rate structure, low-usage customers will be paying a greater portion of their own costs. They still receive below-cost service.

Secondly, there is a misperception that high-usage customers are wealthy customers. The commission reviewed the evidence and found that this relationship was weak. A significant number of high-usage customers are low-to-moderate income families or seniors on a fixed income, many of whom live in warm climates where the need for air conditioning puts them into the higher-cost, top-tier rate levels.

Q: What about low-income customers?

What happens to them?

A. Protections for low-income customers remain in what is known as the CARE program(California Alternate Rates for Energy). Nearly one-third of SCE’s 4.3 million residential customers are on the low-income rate. On average, low-income customers’ bills are about one-third lower than those for other customers — this commission decision preserves the CARE protections for low-income customers.

Q: Some are saying SCE’s profits will increase as a result of this decision. Is that true?

A: No. Changing the structure won’t

The new rate structure recently adopted by the California Public Utilities Commission will be phased in over four years.

result in a change in the overall amount SCE collects from all customers or the profit it makes. In other words, the slice of the pie that residential customers pay stays the same.

How that slice of the pie will be divided among residential customers is what will change.

Q: Some are saying the new rate structure takes away incentives for conservation.

Is that true?

A. No. Incentives for conservation will continue under the new rate structure — in fact, they’ll actually increase. Low-usage customers haven’t had incentives to conserve because their rates had been frozen for years. With the new structure having them pay closer to their cost of service, they will have an incentive to conserve. Conservation incentives will remain in place for high-usage customers. While they’ll be paying lower subsidies, the more electricity customers use, the higher price they’ll pay, which will continue the incentive to conserve.

Q: What is a minimum bill? Does that mean non-CARE customers will see $10 monthly bill increases, and CARE customers will see $5 monthly bill increases?

A. A minimum bill isn’t a rate increase for most customers. What the commission has ordered is that the total amount of a monthly bill for non-CARE customers will be at least $10, and the total monthly bill for CARE customers will be at least $5. If customers’ bills already are higher than those amounts, their bills won’t change.

Q: What are time-of-use rates, and when will they be implemented?

A. Under time-of-use rates, the cost of electricity depends on the time of day and time of year the energy is being used. Default time-of-use rates are scheduled to take effect in 2019. SCE and the other investor-owned utilities will develop pilot programs for residential customers in the next few months.

Q: What is the timeline for implementing the new rate structure?

A. The new rate structure will be phased in over four years. In 2015, four tiers will remain. The commission is requiring a minimum monthly bill be adopted this year of $10 for non-CARE customers and $5 for CARE customers.

The number of tiers will be reduced to three in 2016, and in 2017, there will be two tiers, along with a super-user surcharge the commission adopted. The super-user surcharge will send a signal to conserve specifically for those customers that use more than twice the monthly average amount of electricity in any given month.

Manny Pacquiao to visit death row Filipina in Indonesia Semarang, Indonesia (AFP) Wednesday 7/8/2015 – Boxing superstar Manny Pacquiao said he will visit a Filipina on death row in Indonesia on Friday and also plans to raise her case with President Joko Widodo.

Mary Jane Veloso was sentenced to death in Indonesia after being arrested in 2009 with 2.6 kilograms (5.7 pounds) of heroin sewn into the lining of her suitcase.

She was set to face the firing squad in April with several other foreign drug convicts but was granted an 11th hour reprieve after a woman suspected of recruiting her was arrested in the Philippines. The alleged recruiter and an accomplice now face charges in the Philippines.

After Veloso was given a reprieve, the Indonesian

government stressed the decision was only a “postponement” to allow time for police investigations.

The single mother of two young children has always maintained her innocence, claiming she was duped by an international human-trafficking gang into bringing the drugs into Indonesia.

Her case attracted huge attention in both Indonesia and the Philippines, with near daily rallies of support and celebrities including Philippine star Pacquiao pleading for her life to be spared.

Pacquiao, who arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday, said he would meet Veloso in prison later this week.

“I will visit her on Friday,” he told reporters in the

central Java city of Semarang, not far from the prison where Veloso is being held, adding he would see how he could help her.

“I’m going to meet the president on Friday, so we will see what we can do.”

Eight-weight world champion Pacquiao made global headlines in May when was beaten by Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas in what was dubbed “the fight of the century”.

Local media reported Pacquiao was also filming a TV advert during his visit to Indonesia.

The Indonesian attorney-general’s office could not be reached for comment Wednesday.

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Aquino’s SONA a work in progress, says Palace MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) – President Aquino’s state of the nation address (SONA) continues to be a work in progress.

Malacañang on Wednesday said Aquino has been meeting with his speechwriters.

Aquino will deliver his 6th and last SONA on July 27. The Palace prefers to keep the SONA’s theme and contents a secret until it is delivered. “’Yung sa theme, hindi po namin pwe-

deng maaaring sabihin po sa inyo. Hintayin na lang po natin ang huling state of the nation address ng ating Pangulo. Patuloy po ‘yan,” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said.

“We know the process of drafting the speeches. The President confers with his speechwriters, but the thoughts, the ideas all emanate from the President,” Lacierda added. (MNS)

GrabCar becomes PHL’s first authorized ride-sharing app Manila, Philippines | AFP | Wednesday 7/8/2015 – Philippine transport authorities authorized GrabCar as the first company to operate under new rules governing ridesharing apps, state and company officials said Wednesday.

Singapore-based GrabCar got the jump on US rival Uber which is still submitting documents to comply with the Philippines’ new regulations, said Mary Ann Salada, spokeswoman of the government’s land transport bureau. Ride-sharing services – typically Internet and mobile app-based alternatives to traditional taxis – are gaining popularity in the Philippine capital Manila, notorious for creaking train systems, decrepit buses and traffic jams.

The government unveiled new guidelines for the industry in May after complaints from taxi cab operators. In some other countries, taxi drivers have held protests against ride-booking apps – arguing they represent unfair competition.

But GrabCar and other “transport network companies,” will operate under different rules from taxi cabs, said Salada.

“We consider the transport network companies as distinct from the taxi industry,” she told AFP. GrabCar vehicles can now only be

summoned via smartphones and the Internet, and cannot pick up customers who hail them on the street like taxi cabs, she said.

She added that they can only accept credit card payments.

But like taxi drivers, GrabCar drivers will have to get a franchise license from the transport bureau and their customers will be covered under the same obligatory insurance as taxi passengers.

GrabCar drivers will also have a higher franchise fee, which must be renewed annually compared to seven years for taxi drivers. Additionally, their vehicles will be allowed a shorter “lifespan” than taxi cabs, Salada said.

“With full accreditation, more Filipino commuters will be able to use GrabCar and be confident that we offer a legitimate and safe private hire service,” GrabCar Philippines said in a statement on its website.

“We will now focus on rapidly expanding our GrabCar service to serve more passengers across the Philippines,” it added.

The head of GrabCar Philippines, Natasha Bautista, confirmed that her company had obtained government authorization.

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Marina grounds wooden-hulled vessels after Nirvana incident MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – The Maritime Industry Authority (Marina) has temporarily barred wooden-hulled vessels from sailing in the seas after a motorized boat capsized off Ormoc, Leyte, last week, killing 62 people.

Marina Administrator Maximo Mejia said wooden-hulled vessels similar to the ill-fated MB Kim Nirvana will remain grounded pending the completion of the agency’s thorough review of Memorandum Circular No. 190, which provided for the gradual phase-out of such vessels.

At the House committee on transportation’s hearing on the Ormoc sea tragedy Thursday, Mejia told lawmakers that Marina had pushed for the gradual phase-out of wooden-hulled vessels in 2003 by coming out with Memorandum Circular No. 190 over concerns on the boat’s safety.

The implementation of MC 190, however, was deferred by the Maritime Industry Board under the late Transportation Secretary Leandro Mendoza.

Asked by Antipolo Rep. Romeo Acop why the phase-out of wooden vessels was shelved, Mejia said: “There was determination from higher authorities that such a move will be uneconomical and disruptive.”

Not overloaded While the Marina administrator clarified that his statement was only based on talks with colleagues who were already in the agency at the time of MC 190’s issuance, he said the sinking of MB Kim Nirvana last week only strengthened their resolve to review the circular.

“We’ve started the review of the circular two years ago. We’ll look into this again but we want to have the solid basis for our recommendation. This particular incident will just strengthen our resolve,” he said.

The 33-ton motorized boat bound for Camotes Island sank around 200 meters off the port of Ormoc City on the afternoon of July 2 despite the relatively calm weather.

Although the vessel exceeded its approved capacity of 178 passengers by allowing 209 people on board and filling it with sacks of cement, rice and fertilizer, Mejia said overloading wasn’t the cause why it sank.

“If we’re going to go by the weight of passengers and cargo, the vessel wasn’t overloaded,” he said.

Misplacement of load More than overloading, Mejia said the misplacement of passengers and cargo on the vessel might have affected the ship’s stability.

“Kahit 178 na kalabaw ang isakay doon, hindi ‘yun lulubog basta maayos ang pagkakasalansan,” he said.

Like Mejia, Muntinlupa City Rep. Rodolfo Biazon believes the distribution of load was the main factor why the vessel sank.

“When you load the cargo topside, the center of gravity goes up and the stability of boat is affected,” he said.

Even as overloading was reportedly not the cause why MB Kim Nirvana capsized, lawmakers blamed the Philippine Coast Guard for allowing the vessel to sail even if it carried more passengers than its franchise allowed it to.

“The Coast Guard shouldn’t be given the discretion to allow vessels to load more than the allowed number of passengers,” said Quezon City Rep. Jose Christopher “Kit” Belmonte.

Panel chair Catanduanes Rep. Cesar Sarmiento said the PCG was also at fault for allowing the vessel to sail even if the passengers weren’t wearing life vests.

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CAAP: Pilot gave no notice of Archie King’s chopper flight MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) – The pilot of the ill-fated helicopter that crashed in Mt. Maculot in Cuenca, Batangas before noon Sunday did not submit a flight plan, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) on Wednesday.

Aviation authorities were unaware of the flight, which took off from Puerto Galera. The pilot was advised not to fly because of the bad weather condition.

The pilot, identified as Capt. Felicisimo Taborlupa, was killed in the crash, while billionaire and motel chain owner Archimedes “Archie” King died at the Martin Marasigan Memorial Memorial Hospital in Cuenca where he was brought.

Six other passengers were injured, including King’s wife, Ling-ling; Tatler Philippines editor-in-chief Anton San Diego; Christopher Chilip; Patricia Chilip; and model-designer Tina Maristela-Ocampo and her husband Rico.

CAAP earlier said that the Agusta 109E helicopter, with registry number RPC2726 operated by Malate Tourist Devt Corp. was on its way to Manila when it crashed at Mt. Maculot.(MNS)

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House seeks to clear no work policy in stormy weather MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) – How much rain and how high should floodwaters be before employers let their employees skip work during a typhoon?

Both the employer and employee will have the answer to these questions if House Bill 5358, filed by Diwa party-list Rep. Emmeline Aglipay-Villar, becomes a law.

The proposed Typhoon Code of Practice Act requires employers to craft a document outlining the automatic procedures to be followed and the benefits that will accrue to the employees when typhoon signals are raised in the area of their work place.

Under the measure, employers are not supposed to make deductions from an employee’s wages or leave of absence or impose a penalty if they fail to show up for work during a typhoon or the employee needs to rescue or help his or her family during extreme weather disturbances.

Employees, in turn, must show proof why they cannot go to their work place on a particular day.

The bill also features an employer’s Typhoon Code of Practice that include the following: A classification of essential and non-essential employees The typhoon signal and rainfall warning level when non-essential employees are not required to report for work The sources of information to be considered as “accredited sources” in determining the validity of flood reports The timeframe within which the information of a typhoon signal, rainfall warning or flood report have been issued The medium an employer will use to issue an order that cancels work The procedure for canceling work either

because of a typhoon signal or the decision of the employer after the employees are already in the work place The amount of meal and travel allowances and additional compensation for essential employees during bad weather What to do when a typhoon signal or rainfall warning has been lifted downgraded, or when a flood situation has changed Unpredictability While a government typhoon warning system is in place, employers in various places react differently “and may not take into account the particular situation of employees,” Aglipay-Villar said.

“The unpredictability of typhoons and the particular needs of employers and employees can create a chaotic situation which exacerbates the exposure of persons to the direct and indirect dangers posed by typhoons,” the lawmaker said.

Having a Typhoon Code of Practice will reduce the confusion, miscommunication and inconvenience during typhoons, Aglipay-Villar said. It will also minimize the dangers associated with going to work during inclement weather without unnecessarily impairing business operations, the lawmaker noted.

Suspending work in the private sector is currently at the discretion of employers.

The mandatory cancellation of work in government offices is covered by Executive Order No. 66, which automatically happens when PAGASA raises Storm Signal No. 3 or higher over a particular place.

In case there is no typhoon signal, local chief executives can cancel or suspend work in government offices, particularly in flood-prone or high-risk areas. (MNS)

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Supreme Court reverses Court of Appeals Decides future wages belong to debtor when Chapter 13 is converted to Chapter 7 Imagine that you are a Chapter 13 debtor with a 5-year reorganization plan. In this plan, you commit your future wages to assure payment of the plan payments. However, one year into the plan, you are not able to pay the current mortgage payments. Because of your

default, the mortgage lender files a motion for relief asking for court tors. When Harris again fell behind on his permission to proceed with foreclosure de- mortgage payments, Chase foreclosed spite the Chapter 13. That motion is granted on his home. Following the foreclosure, and you lose your house to foreclosure. Viegelahn continued to receive $530 Since the reason you filed for Chapter 13 monthly from Harris’ wages, but stopped is to save the house, the foreclosure erases making the payments earmarked for Chase. the reason for you to continue on Chapter As a result, funds formerly reserved for 13. Although you lost your house to fore- Chase accumulated in Viegelahn’s possesclosure, you continue on Chapter 13 for sion. About a year after the foreclosure, another year.

Harris converted his case to Chapter 7.

Thereafter, you file a motion to convert Ten days after this conversion, your Chapter 13 case to Chapter 7 because Viegelahn distributed $5,519.22 in Harris’ you still need to discharge $50K of credit withheld wages mainly to Harris’ creditors. card debt. The Chapter 13 trustee then dis- Asserting that Viegelahn lacked authority burses the $4,800 in her account, which is to disburse his post-petition wages to crediyour accumulated wage deduction for the tors post-conversion to Chapter 7, Harris plan to your creditors. sought an order from the Bankruptcy court You object and ask trustee to refund directing refund of the accumulated wages the $4,800 that she collected from your Viegelahn paid to his creditors. wages, which were deposited into your The Bankruptcy court granted Harris’ checking account. Trustee refuses to re- motion, and the District Court affirmed. fund the $4,800 claiming that the wages The Fifth Circuit reversed, concluding that she collected are part of your Chapter 13 the former Chapter 13 trustee must distribbankruptcy estate as future wages. Who ute a debtor’s accumulated post-petition is correct? wages to his creditors.

A case with similar facts went all the Harris appealed to the Supreme Court, way to the United States Supreme Court. which REVERSED the Fifth Circuit and This case was argued on April 1, 2015 and held that: the Supreme Court decision was published Absent a bad faith conversion, §348(f) on May 18, 2015. limits a converted Chapter 7 estate to In Harris vs. Viegelahn, Mr. Harris was property belonging to the debtor “as of the indebted to multiple creditors and $3,700 date� the original Chapter 13 petition was behind on his home mortgage payments filed. Because post-petition future wages to Chase, filed a Chapter 13 to handle the do not fit that bill, undistributed wages pre-filing default. collected by a Chapter 13 trustee, ordinarHis court confirmed plan provided for ily DO NOT become part of a converted resumption of the Jh mortgage payments, Chapter 7 estate. and that the $530 monthly plan payment By excluding post-petition future wages would be withheld from his future wages from the converted Chapter 7 estate, absent and remitted to the Chapter 13 trustee, a bad faith conversion, §348(f) removes respondent Viegelahn. those earnings from the pool of assets that Trustee Viegelahn would make monthly may be liquidated and distributed to credipayments to Chase to pay down the pre- tors. Allowing a terminated Chapter 13 filing mortgage arrears, and distribute the trustee to disburse the very same earnings remaining funds to Harris’ other credi- to the very same creditors is incompatible

Estrada: Pork scam witness Tuason has 89 bank accounts MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) – Detained senator Jose “Jinggoy� Estrada on Monday bared that pork barrel scam witness Ruby Tuason has 89 bank accounts under her name.

Interviewed after his bail hearing from plunder over the scam, Estrada showed to reporters a list of Tuason’s bank accounts furnished to his lawyers in compliance with their request for bank documents from the Anti-Money Laundering Council.

Estrada said this shows that Tuason was lying when she testified in a Senate Blue Ribbon committee probe on Feb. 13 that she had to sell her house to return to government P40 million in kickbacks because she didn’t have enough cash in bank.

He said these banks were used to stow away her alleged kickbacks from the Malampaya fund scam. “(It means) she has a lot of money, kickbacks from the PDAF (Priority Development Assistance Funds), and I assume more from the Malampaya fund,� Estrada said Estrada also said Tuason’s bank accounts is proof that she was lying when she testified before Senate under oath that she was not liquid to return to government her rebates.

LOS ANGELES with that statutory design.

This conclusion is reinforced by §348(e), which “terminates the service of the Chapter 13 trustee upon conversion. One service provided by a Chapter 13 trustee is disbursing “payments to creditors.� §1326Š. The moment a case is converted from Chapter 13 to Chapter 7, a Chapter 13 trustee is tripped of authority to provide that “service.�

Section 1327(a), which provides that a confirmed Chapter 13 “binds the debtor and each creditor,� and §1326(a)(2), instructs a trustee to distribute “payments in accordance with the plan,� ceased to apply once the case was converted to Chapter 7. §103(i), Sections 1327(a) and 1326(a)(2), therefore, offer no support for Viegelahn’s assertion that the Bankruptcy code requires a terminated Chapter 13 trustee to distribute to creditors post-petition wages remaining in the trustee’s possession. Continuing to distribute funds to creditors pursuant to a defunct Chapter 13 plan, moreover, is not, one of the trustee’s post-conversion responsibilities specified by the Federal rules of Bankruptcy Procedure.

I guess the Chapter 13 trustee will have to refund the $5,519.22 to Mr. Harris immediately since the Supreme Court has decided that he had no authority to disburse the future wages of debtor to his

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creditors upon conversion of his Chapter 13 case to Chapter 7. This trustee will have pay the $5,519.22 from his own pocket and sue all the creditors who got a portion of the $5,519.22 for a refund. Good luck on that. It’s just not cost effective and a waste of time. Good luck on that. With this Supreme Court decision debtors can now rest assured that upon conversion of their Chapter 13 case to Chapter 7, their future wages belong to them and is out of reach of the Chapter 13 trustee. “WHY ARE YOU IN DESPAIR, O MY SOULD? AND WHY HAVE YOU BECOME DISTURBED WITHIN ME? HOPE IN GOD, FOR I SHALL AGAIN PRAISE HIM FOR THE HELP OF HIS PRESENCE.� PSALM 42:5.

Lawrence Bautista Yang is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center and has been in law practice for thirty years.

He specializes in bankruptcy, business and civil litigation and has handled more than five thousand successful bankruptcy cases in California. He speaks Tagalog and looks forward to discussing your case with you personally. Please call Angie, Barbara or Jess at (626) 284-1142 for an appointment at 1000 S Fremont Ave, MAILSTOP 58, Building A-1 SUITE 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803 OR at 20274 Carrey Road, Walnut, CA 91789.

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Glendale’s Alex Theatre presents The 2015 Miss Philippines USA Beauty Pageant Tomorrow, Sunday,, July 12, 2015 the Alex Theatre in Glendale presents the 2015 Miss Philippines USA (MPUSA) Beauty Pageant produced by fashion designer, Lou Razon.

MPUSA’s main mission is “to develop the finest ambassadors of goodwill and role models for Filipino American women, to raise scholarship funds, to bring awareness on Filipino culture and become an advocate of education through charities that promote education.”

According to pageant producer and creative director, Lou Razon, the long term objective of the pag- and community events. eant is for the Filipino American woman This year’s 2015 MPUSA candidates to be “recognized by participating in other are: Kristalyn Laura Hipolito, Katrina pageant competitions worldwide.”

Malaiba, Nikki Zulueta, Jessica Sarawasee, MPUSA has served the Filipino com- Chance Chloe Barrera, Crystal Orleans, munity in LA since 2012. They have Trisha Bantigue, Ethel Anne Dionisio, participated in various community events Christa Harner, Nadine Singson, Rachelle such as the recent Filipinotown Festival Castillo, Maria Ariana Conechado, Crysand 5k marathon run, Chinese Parade in telle Joyce Volckmann, Danacamille Chinatown, Philippine Typhoon telethons Bautista, Leslie Rabena, Jemina Paz, Annon Channel 5 and various other charitable Bailey Delos Reyes, Tiffany Miehls, Sheila Despite the cool water in the pool, these pretty lasses can sure bring fire to the already hot California summer. Photo: Benny Uy Samson, Daisha Pagsanhan, Emmeline Sturgeon and Amelia Fulgentes.

The MPUSA Pageant also presents the Miss Young Philippines candidates namely: Michelle Manier, Nicole Opendo, Richie Anne Soliven, Margaux Ugalino, Lindsay Alicia Berneking, Lexus Lagumbay, Chanelle Denice Waligura and Dione Janique Fusch.

Once again, this year’s host will be KTLA News Anchor, Cher Calvin and Broadcast personality, Tony Cabrera.

Pageant winners will be announced by the following judges: This year’s sponsors are Philippine Airlines, Victory Auto Connection, Dermskin, Image Spa MD, AR Salon, Rex Vincent Photography, Roxas Law, Max’s of Manila, Josephine’s Bistro, Jack’s Lechon, Fiesta Fastfood and Lou Razon Couture.

The esteemed judges during the pageant are: Frank Mottek, KNX Radio personality, Aida King, Fil-Canadian actress, Christ

Lou Razon, MP USA 2015 Producer

Broughton, producer/actor, Pauline Diaz, Dermskin, Heddy Trinidad, CEO Victory Auto and Atty. Brian Weinberger.

For details on the pageant, you may log on to MPUSA’s website at: www.missphilusa.com or call: Samantha Antonio, Assistant to the Producer at: 818/242-2088.

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The 2015 MPUSA “talent competitiion” winners from left: Annalissa Tungenes, (Martial Arts/ Judo skills, 2nd place); Ethel Ann Grace Dionisio (Acting skills in “MIss Saigon,” 1st place); Lindsay Berneking, (powerful Cha Cha dance with partner, Andrey Voloshk, 3rd place), Samantha Antonio, MP USA Producer’s Assistant. Photo: Bobby Crisostomo

Veteran actress Lucita Soriano dies at 74 MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – Veteran actress Lucita Soriano has died. She was 74.

Garry Clint Adriano Garcia, Soriano’s son, on Wednesday confirmed on Facebook that the veteran actress had passed away.

Soriano died at the Pacific Global Medical Center where she was earlier admitted to the intensive care unit. She was the widow of fellow actor Rodolfo “Boy” Garcia, who died in 1998.

Soriano married American Michael Mayr, a retired engineer, in 2009.

Soriano, whose movie career spanned more than five decades, appeared in more than 200 movies and television shows, including ABS-CBN’s “Pangako Sa ‘Yo.” (MNS)

Lucita Soriano

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Are you struggling under the burden of debt?

FOREIGN LAWYERS

If you are searching for debt reduction solutions, no doubt you’ve been inundated with advertisements for various debt management programs, companies and solutions. The choices seem confusing to the average consumer. The truth is that every situation is different and what may work perfectly for others is not necessarily going to work the same way for you.

So what do you do before your debt problems get worse?

If you know your finances are a mess they owe. And because they have stopped and you’re struggling with a mountain paying their creditors, the bill collectors are of debt, then you need to create a plan now demanding the full amount which, of of attack to help you get rid of your debt course, makes it even harder for the person properly. If you’ve ignored your debt to catch up on their delinquent debts. problems for a while and you are now at a If you’re on a very tight budget or if point where creditors have taken legal ac- your income is not even enough to cover tion to collect what you owe, self-help debt your living expenses, it may be impossible reduction may be out of the question and for you to get out of debt without having to you may need to immediately take the legal file bankruptcy in order to wipe out what steps necessary to protect what you have. you can no longer afford to pay.

Many times, people come to our office For many people, this may be the only with wage garnishments, bank levies or a realistic way to get rid of debts hanging lien filed by a creditor against their home over their head instead of trying to pay and they don’t know what to do to stop it. their creditors slowly or even worse- not These are the situations where filing bank- paying them and having to face the legal ruptcy may be the only way to get out of consequences later on. debt as quickly as possible and to protect Working out the right debt elimination yourself from further creditor actions. or debt reduction plan to help you get out It is important for you to have an ac- of debt can be tricky. Everyone seems to curate picture of your current financial have all kinds of advice and they’re all situation before you embark on implement- convinced that their solution is the best. ing a solution. This means understanding How can you know which one is the right exactly how much income is coming in one to help you? and how much you pay out in expenses.

If you need help in figuring out your opAs a starting point, you should also write tions, please call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772 down your outstanding balances on all or (661) 775-4880 and let us review your your current debts and add up the totals. situation. We have offices in Pasadena, The total figure might shock you at first Cerritos and Valencia. but it’s important for you to know where (None of the information herein is you’re starting in order to create a plan of intended to give legal advice for any attack. Alongside each debt balance, write specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has down the amount of interest you’re being successfully helped over 5,000 clients in charged and how much you’re paying each getting out of debt. For a free attorney month on that debt. evaluation of your situation, please call Sadly, most people who are buried in a Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE mountain of debt have lost track of what 1-866-477-7772).

From page 1

tion began presenting arguments before the arbitral tribunal on why the court should exercise its jurisdiction over Manila’s case against Beijing. Solicitor General Florin Hilbay and Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario were the first ones to speak for the Philippines.

Foreign counsels were also tapped to argue the Philippines’ case before the arbitration court. They are: Paul S. Reichler and Lawrence H. Martin (Foley Hoag LLP, Washington DC,

ILLEGAL From page 1

pines and China have both ratified, should be used to resolve their bitter territorial dispute.

“The case before you is of the utmost importance to the Philippines, to the region, and to the world,” del Rosario told the tribunal.

“In our view, it is also of utmost significance to the integrity of the convention, and to the very fabric of the legal order of the seas and oceans.”

China insists it has sovereign rights to nearly all of the South China Sea, a strategically vital waterway with shipping lanes through which about a third of all the world’s traded oil passes.

Its claim, based on ancient Chinese maps, reaches close to the coasts of its southern neighbors.

The Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have claims to parts of the sea, which have for decades made it a potential military flashpoint.

Tensions have risen sharply in recent years as a rising China has sought to stake its claims more assertively.

Following a stand-off between Chinese ships and the weak Filipino Navy in 2012, China took control of a rich fishing ground called Scarborough Shoal that is within

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United States of America); Professor Bernard H. Oxman (University of Miami School of Law, Miami, United States of America); Professor Philippe Sands QC (Matrix Chambers, London, United Kingdom) and Professor Alan Boyle (Essex Court Chambers, London, United Kingdom).

The foreign lawyers are “closely coordinating” with Hilbay on the Philippines’ legal strategy to defend its case before the arbitration court, Lacierda said. (MNS) the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone.

China has also undertaken giant reclamation activities that have raised fears it will use artificial islands to build new military outposts close to the Philippines and other claimants.

China has rejected all criticism over its actions, insisting it has undisputed sovereign rights to the sea.

However del Rosario told the tribunal in the Hague that China’s argument of claiming the sea based on “historic rights” was without foundation.

“The so-called nine dash line (based on an old map used by China) has no basis whatsoever under international law,” he said.

The Philippines submitted its case to the Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration, a 117-state body that rules on disputes between countries, in early 2013.

Del Rosario’s comments, held in closed door proceedings but released by his office in Manila on Wednesday, were part of the Philippines’ opening oral arguments.

China has refused to participate in the proceedings and said it will not abide by any ruling, even though it is has ratified the UN’s Convention on the Law of the Sea. However the Philippines hopes a ruling in its favor will pressure China into making concessions.

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Fil Am Chamber’s golf tourney earmarks proceeds to Blind Start Foundation The recent fundraising activity of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Orange County under the leadership of Elena Lapid Salonga netted thousands of dollars to help the victims of SuperTyphoon Yolanda in the Philippines in their efforts to live normal lives again.

The event put into focus the graceful generosity of Filipino

Americans who many think as already reeling from donor fatigue because “bringing together sighted and visually numerous fundraising events sponsored impaired people through athletic events by many Fil-Am associations for different like Dragon Boat Racing and Blind Mud projects for their outreaches.

Run.” Its mission is to provide scholarships The graciousness of supporters in open- to blind and visually impaired people to ing their hearts and their wallets to various develop job skills that will lead them to causes has sort of become a second nature lives of independence. to them already because of their desires Blind Start was founded in 2006 and to share their blessings from their adopted was the first to hold the first blind /blindcountry. folded mud run three years later. Its dragon Now comes another fundraising event boat racing team was the first team of such for the only Fil-Am Chamber in Orange composition to race at the Long Beach County where participants will have the Dragon Boat Festival. Both events were opportunity once again to open their hearts able to “fill the gap between the blind and to a worthwhile cause. the sighted” and provided an insight into The annual event’s proceeds will two different worlds and in the process they support a nonprofit dedicated to helping are able to raise awareness of blindness in those blindsided by events and have been America. deprived of a valuable sense necessary to ABAOC Educates Members Through live normal lives.

ABAOC University on July 17 This July 24th, the 5th Annual Golf TourThe Asian Business Association of nament of FACCOC will tee off at 10:00 Orange County continues its series of a.m. at the Oak Creek Golf Club in Irvine educating its members on July 17 at the with Blindstart of American Foundation as Wyndham Hotel in Orange County.

The ABAOC University is an offshoot the designated beneficiary.

Blind Start of America was founded by of the growth in the business community Brian Tom whose life-story has become an that necessitates a response in increased education, training and advocacy among inspiration to many people.

Once a “UCLA College hot shot” Tom the organization’s members. The first in shared his success story at the recent annual a series of the university scheme was held “Secrets to Success” event of FACCOC at last June 5 in the same venue.

ABAOC is a nonprofit founded in 1992 the Wyndham Hotel in Garden Grove on how he was humbled by his multiple sur- to “meet the growing needs of Asian busigeries to save his sight but eventually lost nesses in Orange County and seeks to proit. Having been “blindsided’ by the episode vide “all Asian Americans the opportunity to gain access to economic advancement led him to be more determined.

The leadership of award-winning Blind- through networking, education and comstart of America has been passionate on munity representation.”

Consul General Lim and BlindStart Brian Tom: The Fifth Annual Golf Tournament of the Filipino American Chamber of Commerce on July 24th in Irvine will benefit Blind Start Foundation led by its founder Brian Tom, shown here with Consul General Leo M. Herrera-Lim, when the latter was guest of honor at an Orange County event both attended recently.

NAPOLES From page 1

for the years 2011 and 2012, the years when she supposedly acquired the Ritz Carlton condominium unit in the US and a farm lot in Pangasinan, respectively.

Napoles’ lawyers say she had no income of her own in those years and therefore is not required to pay income tax. Napoles is the youngest daughter of businesswoman Janet Lim-Napoles, the alleged brains of the multi-billion peso pork barrel scam.

The older Napoles is detained at the Correctional Institution for Women in Mandaluyong City after she was convicted for serious illegal detention, a case filed by her second cousin and pork barrel scam star witness Benhur Luy. The older Napoles is also facing multiple plunder and graft cases before the Sandiganbayan in connection to the pork scam. (MNS)

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It’s official: Latinos outnumber ‘OVP services fund a pittance compared to DILG’s P7.3-B kitty’ whites in California MANILA, July 8 (Mabuhay) – THE P86-million social services fund of the Office of the Vice President (OVP) was a “pittance” compared to the P7.3-billion kitty of the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), a spokesman said on Wednesday.

Vice presidential spokesperson for political concerns Rico Quicho said the OVP has assisted hundreds of indigents, including constituents of Samar Representative Ben Evardone, who he said had maliciously described the fund as “pork barrel.”

“In fact, 14 of his constituents from Eastern Samar asked for medical assistance from the OVP,” Quicho said in a statement, reacting to Evardone’s reported statement that the funds could be used by Vice President Jejomar Binay to promote his presidential ambition in 2016 .

He said the OVP served a total of 66,951 patients in medical missions across 21 provinces, and was responsible for the distribution of a total of 133,346 relief packages to families affected by natural calamities in 2014. “It also helped 6,044 indigent clients who sought medical assistance,” the spokesman said.

“The patients or their families requested help to pay for dialysis, hospital bills, chemotherapy sessions, medicines, surgery and other procedures, implants, and hearing aids. These clients came mostly from Metro Manila but the OVP also assisted clients from other regions.”

In 2014, Quicho said the OVP also provided educational support to 9,700 elementary school pupils and distributed medals and certificates of recognition to 8,000 students. Most of the beneficiaries, he said, were indigenous people and they received bags, notebooks, pencils and other school supplies.

He said Evardone’s remarks should then be better directed at DILG Secretary Mar Roxas “as all projects funded by the OVP’s social services program have passed muster

under the Commission on Audit.”

“The Roxas-led DILG has P5.6 billion for providing potable water, and P1.2 billion for housing, which they do not have the mandate nor competence to fulfil, and so far, we still do not have any audit reports on how funds for these projects in the past years have been disbursed as the last available report for the Payapa at Masaganang Pamayanan (PAMANA) is for 2012,” he pointed out.

Quicho said the COA even lauded the OVP in 2013 for its social services programs. The OVP’s accounting division , he said, has also consistently earned plaudits as one of the most outstanding accounting offices in the country.

“The social services fund has been lauded by COA for actually reaching its intended beneficiaries, which cannot be said of those involved in the PDAF or DAP scams,” he said. PDAF is priority development assistance fund while DAP is Disbursement Acceleration Program.

“Definitely, it cannot be said of the DILG, and unless they can show proof that their lump-sum funds have been properly audited and actually reached their targets, then the gentleman from Eastern Samar is barking up the wrong tree,” he pointed out.

Quicho also clarified that the fund for social services was institutionalized as part of the regular budget of the OVP during the time of former Vice President Noli de Castro.

According to the OVP’s Budget Division, the original budget for social services allocated under de Castro’s term was P29.418 million in 2007. The budget increased over the years due to the increasing number of indigents requesting assistance.

“It was included in the regular budget due to the number of indigents who would come to the OVP asking for help,” the spokesman said.

“As part of the regular budget, it is subject to accounting and auditing practices,” Quicho added.(MNS)

1734 MAP From page 1

ritorial dispute between the Philippines and China. Reyes though was not very optimistic about our prospect of winning our territorial claim.

“Wala naman tayong magagawa sa China kung talagang magmatigas sila,” he said, adding that it is very unlikely that the US would go to war with China to defend us.

But then, Reyes said he is sharing his old map so that the young generation of Filipinos would be able to bear out that our territorial claim over Scarborough Shoal located off the shore of Luzon, then known as Panacot, has historical basis.

“Bihira lang na makakita tayo ng ganitong mapa ng Pilipinas,” he added, “na nagpapatunay na noon pa man ay itinuturing na bahagi ng Pilipinas ang mga pinag-aagawang isla.”

Also, Reyes was inspired to come out with his map when he saw the news about the Sothesby’s auction of a 300-year-old map of the Philippines. It was sold a Filipino millionaire Mel Velarde for P12 million.

The map, published by Jesuit priest Pedro Murillo Velarde in 1734, debunks the so-called nine-dash-line China has been using to lay claim over the South China Sea. It measures 1,120 by 1,200 mm. or about the size of two regular bath towels.

Sothesby said it was the first scientific map of the Philippines. It has 12 engravings, eight of which depicted native cus-

tomed figures, a map of Guam and three city or harbor maps that included Manila.

The map was among the 80 heirlooms that the Duke of Northumberland Ralp George Algernon Percy auctioned after a flood hit the said county in April 2012.

The map’s buyer said he will donate the map to the Philippine government which has a plan to present it to the United Nations Arbitral Tribunal in Hague, Netherlands.

A high delegation of Filipino officials flew to The Hague and presented its oral arguments on the Philippine arbitration case against China. The Philippine said it expects to win the case. Top officials from the Philippine government’s three branches were in attendance during the proceedings.

They included Senate President Franklin Drilon, House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte, Foreign Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima and Supreme Court Justice Antonio Carpio.

Malacañang said The Hague tribunal will decide first if it has jurisdiction over the case.

China has refused to participate in the proceedings and has criticized the Philippine government for initiating international arbitration instead of holding bilateral talks to resolve the dispute. Despite this pronouncement, the Chinese government has continued to build infrastructure in the disputed area.

Los Angeles, United States (AFP) Wednesday 7/8/2015 – It’s official: the number of Latinos in California has overtaken the white population for the first time, according to latest census figures.

The Golden State had 15 million Hispanics compared to 14.9 million nonHispanic whites as of July 1, 2014, according to the official figures released late last month by the US Census Bureau.

“This is sort of the official statistical recognition of something that has been under way for almost an entire generation,” Roberto Suro of the University of Southern California told the LA Times.

Indeed, officials forecast in early 2013 that the tipping point would be reached early in 2014. But the latest figures are the first to confirm the balance has changed definitively.

By 2060, Hispanics will comprise nearly half – 48 percent – of the state’s population, while non-Hispanic whites will have fallen to 30 percent, according to 2013 Department of Finance predictions.

In other figures highlighted by the new census bureau report, California had both the largest Asian population of any US state (6.3 million) and the largest increase of Asians since the previous year.

Mexico marines uncover cartel’s vast underground arsenal Mexico City, Mexico (AFP) Thursday 7/9/2015 – Troops have discovered an underground weapons cache used by a drug cartel in northern Mexico to hide 33 assault rifles, three submachine guns and three grenade launchers, authorities said Wednesday.

Marines based in Reynosa, which lies across from the US border, found the arse-

nal while on patrol in the vicinity of the city on Tuesday, the navy said in a statement.

In addition to the guns, the marines found 5,579 cartridges for AK-47 assault rifles and scores of clips for a slew of weapons.

The navy released pictures showing a row of rifles and plastic bags filled with bullets.

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Refinancing to remove your PMI or lower your rate even if you are currently unemployed It’s been seven years since the financial system collapsed and the housing bubble burst, and it’s been a long and steady road to recovery. The housing market has only been on the mend over the last year, and according to experts, it still has some healing to do. But in some areas, home prices have actually gotten higher than the recent 07-08’ prices. Which might mean that home prices bubble might burst again?

New home sales hit their highest level since May 2008 in June, much fewer homeowners are under- have also helped push the recovery. water and home prices in the country’s 20 Sales of new U.S. single-family homes largest cities were up 18.1% in June from vaulted to a five-year high in June, accorda year earlier. ing to the Commerce Department.

I think we are 90% back to normal and If we continue to see good sales, we a lot of what is driving the housing market’s expect them to increase 5%-8% this year strength is existing home sales, but prices as prices continue to rise. The market isn’t

fully running on eight cylinders yet, but we are getting there.

What do you do when you were fortunate enough to have bought home within the past three –four years? Work out your payment terms and get rid of your PMI if you are still paying on it. Conventional and FHA loan that was written with more than a 80% loan to value most likely carried PMI. First thing you should do is to make sure you have the equity requirement from your lender to be able to remove your PMI, you can obtain an appraisal and submit the report to your lender. Before you do that please check if you have any time restrictions, some PMI companies will require for you to keep the PMI for 5 years, some maybe 2.

If your interest rates are above 4.5% and you can’t take out the PMI with your lender, maybe you should consider a full refinancing, make sure you do the no cost refinancing. Adding costs of refinancing to your loan will sometime defeat the purpose of your intention and just line up pocket of the lender.

Real prices bottoming in 2012 Housing experts say U.S. home prices peaked in early 2006 and fell to record lows in 2012. The widely-watched Case-Shiller home price index fell to its lowest level at the end of 2008.

Smith says home prices began to improve in 2011 when the market had almost digested the crisis and left the average median home price at $166,100. Now he says the average price is $213,500 – up 15% from last year.

Distressed Sales Smith from the NAR says during the height of the crisis, distressed sales, which include foreclosures and short sales, made up 49% of the market. Now, that number is closer to 12%. Last year, RealtyTrac reported foreclosure filings fell 34% in August as first-time defaults dropped to the lowest level in almost eight years, thanks to rising home prices.

Refinancing your loan even when you are unemployed.

If you are unemployed MHA Making Home affordable can help you get relief to avoid foreclosure. MHA could offer solutions that could help you: – Get mortgage relief while searching for re-employment – Reduce your monthly mortgage payments and rates – Get help when you owe more than the home is worth – Leave your home without the sting of foreclosure I spoke to a government employee who I have a direct contact, she says the program will require your lender to do a forbearance payment while you are looking for work to avoid foreclosure. Please call me for further details or call Making home affordable direct 888-995-4673.

I have mentioned before that these programs will evolve to help more borrowers towards the later stages of the process, it might be too late for some but not all. So, now that the government finally or maybe got their programs to help homeowners in order, this is the time for some to try and get that help .

For some that have investment properties that are no longer in the black might want to think to take some profit and pay down other debts or loan balances. This would be a great time to sell specially when the real estate inventory is still pretty anemic.

I hope all of you can take advantage of these low interest rates before they start to go up, get rid of your PMI, convert your adjustables to fixed rate mortgages, call now to know how you can save on your monthly rates and payments without paying for anything at all.

Call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance , 28 years of helping homeowners save and move thru the right path of homeownership. Call Ken at 562-508-7048 or write to kennethgo@verizon.net.

Land developer sentenced to 14 years for defrauding victims who lost millions in ‘investments’ LOS ANGELES – A former Central Coast real estate developer was sentenced this morning to 168 months in federal prison for his conviction on fraud and money laundering charges after bilking investors who put millions of dollars into Central Coast real estate projects.

Kelly Gearhart, 54, who previously lived in Atascadero and currently resides in Wadsworth, Ohio, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II. Gearhart was remanded into custody at the close of the sentencing hearing.

Gearhart, who was named Atascadero’s “Citizen of the Year” in 2006, pleaded guilty last year to two counts of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. When he pleaded guilty, Gearhart admitted that he knowingly and intentionally made misrepresentations and omissions relating to his Vista Del Hombre real estate development project to induce victims to part with their money. Gearhart admitted that he sold lots that were part of the Vista Del Hombre project in Paso Robles, even though those lots were being used to secure others’ loans.

Gearhart admitted that he then used those same lots to obtain bank loans.

At sentencing, prosecutors introduced evidence that Gearhart also told investors that their investments – which he called “loans,” promising repayment with interest – would be used to develop the Vista Del Hombre project.

Judge Wright is scheduled to hold a restitution hearing on October 20. The plea agreement permits prosecutors to seek restitution for victims of the Vista Del Hombre real estate development project, as well as any other fraudulent conduct in which Gearhart may have been involved – a figure that may be as high as $20 million.

However, it is unclear if there is any money available to repay victims.

The case against Gearhart is related to a case against James Hurst Miller Jr., the former president of the Atascadero-based Hurst Financial Corporation. Miller, who previously pleaded guilty to fraud and money laundering charges, is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Wright on October 19.

The cases against Gearhart and Miller are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS - Criminal Investigation. The San Luis County District Attorney’s Office provided assistance in the investigation.

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Will a domestic violence finding affect my claim for sole or joint custody of our children?

An action under the DVPA (Domestic Violence Protection Act) seeking a restraining order often is necessary to protect parties from abuse or domestic violence perpetrated by the other spouse or significant other. At times, it is effective in preventing harm to one of the parties. At the same time, this process is sometimes abused by family law litigants as a strategy for obtaining an advantage in a child custody case. The basis for this is the presumption against sole or joint custody under California family code section 3044. strained by a protective order or restraining California Family Code Section 3044 order, and whether he or she has complied (a) provides “Upon a finding by the court with its terms and conditions. (7) Whether that a party seeking custody of a child has the perpetrator of domestic violence has perpetrated domestic violence against the committed any further acts of domestic other party seeking custody of the child violence. or against the child or the child’s siblings A person has “perpetrated domestic within the previous five years, there is a re- violence” when he or she is found by the buttable presumption that an award of sole court to have intentionally or recklessly or joint physical or legal custody of a child caused or attempted to cause bodily injury, to a person who has perpetrated domestic or sexual assault, or to have placed a person violence is detrimental to the best interest in reasonable apprehension of imminent of the child, pursuant to Section 3011. This serious bodily injury to that person or to presumption may only be rebutted by a another, or to have engaged in any behavior preponderance of the evidence. involving, but not limited to, threatening, In determining whether the presumption striking, harassing, destroying personal in family code 3044(a) has been overcome, property or disturbing the peace of another, the court shall consider all of the follow- for which a court may issue an ex parte ing factors:(1) Whether the perpetrator of order pursuant to Section 6320 to protect domestic violence has demonstrated that the other party seeking custody of the child giving sole or joint physical or legal cus- or to protect the child and the tody of a child to the perpetrator is in the child’s siblings.The requirement of a best interest of the child. In determining the finding by the court shall be satisfied by, best interest of the child, the preference for among other things, and not limited to, frequent and continuing contact with both evidence that a party seeking custody has parents, as set forth in subdivision (b) of been convicted within the previous five Section 3020, or with the noncustodial years, after a trial or a plea of guilty or parent, as set forth in paragraph (1) of no contest, of any crime against the other subdivision (a) of Section 3040, may not be party that comes within the definition of used torebut the presumption, in whole or domestic violence contained in Section in part.(2) Whether the perpetrator has suc- 6211 and of abuse contained in Section cessfully completed a batterer’s treatment 6203, including, but not limited to, a program that meets the criteria outlined in crime described in subdivision (e) of subdivision (c) of Section 1203.097 of the Section 243 of, or Section 261,262, 273.5, Penal Code. (3) Whether the perpetrator 422, or 646.9 of, the Penal Code.The rehas successfully completed a program of quirement of a finding by the court shall alcohol or drug abuse counseling if the also be satisfied if any court, whether that court determines that counseling is ap- court hears or has heard the child custody propriate. (4) Whether the perpetrator has proceedings or not, has made a finding pursuccessfully completed a parenting class suant to subdivision (a) based on conduct if the court determines the class to be ap- occurring within the previous five years. propriate. (5) Whether the perpetrator is on In Christina L v. Chauncey B, 229 Cal. probation or parole, and whether he or she App 4th 731 (2014),the Court of appeal held has complied with the terms and conditions that because a Domestic Violence restraining order must be based on a finding that of probation or parole. (6) Whether the perpetrator is re- the party being restrained committed one

Expected criticisms making Grace Poe wary of joining 2016 polls MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) – Senator Grace Poe on Monday said the expected criticisms from her political opponents are making her wary of joining the 2016 national elections.

“Hindi pa nga po ako nagdedeklara at hindi pa ako nakakarating sa puntong nagdedesisyon, gayunpaman, marami na ring iniisip na manira. Minsan, naiisip ko, ito ba ay dapat, ang sakripisyo ba na ito ay kaya ko?” Poe said in a radio interview.

Poe is the most preferred presidential candidate for 2016, based on recent surveys conducted by the Social Weather Stations and Pulse Asia.

Although the neophyte senator has yet to announce her plans for the 2016 elections, her eligibility to run for president has already been questioned.

Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco, a spokesman for the opposition, has earlier said Poe lacks the residency requirement to run for

president. He apologized for raising the issue after it caused a rift between Poe and the family of Vice President Jejomar Binay, a presidential contender in next year’s elections.

Poe, during the radio interview, stressed that the country needs an honest leader.

“Tama ang sinasabi ng iba at sila’y may higit na karanasan. Para sa akin naman, ang aking gusto ay ang aking layunin na mapabuti ang buhay ng ating mga kababayan. Sa tingin ko, malaking hakbang diyan ay kung ang liderato natin ay mas magiging tapat din sa kanilang paninilbihan,” she said.

She, however, was quick to say that she has yet to decide whether she will seek higher post or not.

“Ang dami pa rin pong ikinokonsidera at hindi po madali talaga ang responsibilidad na iyan,” said Poe, daughter of the late actor Fernando Poe Jr. (MNS)

BAN ANIMAL TESTING

or more acts of domestic abuse, a finding of domestic abuse sufficient to support a DVPA restraining order necessarily triggers the rebuttable statutory presumption that an award of sole or joint physical or legal custody of a child to a person who has perpetrated domestic violence is detrimental to the best interest of the child.

Cal. Fam. Code §§ 3044. The presumption that an award of sole or joint physical or legal custody of a child to a person who has perpetrated domestic violence is detrimental to the best interest of the child changes the burden of persuasion, but may be overcome by a preponderance of the evidence showing that it is in the child’s best interest to grant joint or sole custody to the offending parent. Cal. Fam. Code § 3044. In that case, the father had a history of perpetrating domestic violence against the mother. Domestic Violence restraining orders has been issued multiple times over the years including within the last 5 years.

The trial court ignored both the existing restraining order, the legal effect of such a judicial finding, and failed to apply the family code 3044 presumption and instead awarded joint custody to father. The Court of appeal reversed and remanded the case back to the trial court. (copyright 7/7/15) Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.

The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information. This article is not intended to cover all the issues related to the topic discussed. The specific facts that apply to your matter may make the outcome different than would be anticipated by you. This article does create any attorney client relationship between you and the Law Offices of Kenneth U. Reyes, APLC This article is not a solicitation.

Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Certified Family Law Specialist. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of both the Family law section and Immigration law section of the Los Angeles County Bar Association. He is a graduate of Southwestern University Law School in Los Angeles and California State University, San Bernardino School of Business Administration. He has extensive CPA experience prior to law practice. LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, APLC. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 747, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com

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OPINION

Door for one-on-one talks with PHL open ‘forever,’ Chinese envoy says

MANILA, July 6 (Mabuhay) – A day before a United Nations tribunal hears the Philippines’ case against China, Beijing’s ambassador again asked Manila on Monday to consider direct negotiations to resolve their long-running territorial row over the South China Sea. Chinese Ambassador Zhao Jianhua has repeatedly conveyed China’s offer to hold bilateral talks with the Philippine government on their maritime conflicts, saying its door for consultation “is still open and will be open forever.”

“I think the best is to sit down bilaterally to talk. We need to resume our bilateral negotiation without any condition. I think this is the best way that we can discuss how to peacefully settle these disputes,” Zhao told journalists at his official residence after the Chinese government donated books to the National Library of the Philippines.

For the first time since Manila filed the case against China before the The Hague-based Permanent Court of Arbitration, a five-man panel of judges will conduct oral arguments from July 7 to 13 to determine jurisdiction over the Philippines’ complaint questioning Beijing massive claim in the resource-rich waters.

“Our door for bilateral consultation and negotiation is still open and will be open forever,” Zhao said.

But Philippine government officials said it is impossible to continue bilateral talks with China because of its “indisputable” claim over the waters, where undersea oil and gas deposits were discovered.

Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan also have overlapping claims to the waters.

A high-level delegation from the Philippines travelled to the Netherlands over the weekend to witness the legal proceedings in which Manila will defend its case and convince the tribunal to assume jurisdiction over it.

The delegation includes officials from all branches of government.

The Philippines will be represented by Solicitor General Florin Hilbay and the country’s Washington-based legal counsel Paul Reichler of Foley and Hoag, in a case which Filipino officials are hoping would resolve the maritime row.

The dispute is believed to be Asia’s next potential flashpoint for a major armed conflict.

China, which asserts ownership of nearly 90 percent of the resourcerich waters, has declared several times that it will not participate in the arbitration, saying Manila’s case are baseless and lacks legal merit.

The Philippines insists that arbitration is a peaceful and diplomatic way of resolving the disputes, while its move to seek intervention from an arbitral tribunal has gained support from many foreign governments, including the United States, Japan, and the European Union.

China prefers to negotiate one-on-one with its smaller neighbors, giving it leverage because of its sheer size and military power.

Zhao brushed off criticisms that China, which has turned seven formerly submerged features in the South China Sea into man-made islands with buildings and at least one runway, is militarizing the waters by turning it into defense outposts to strengthen its claim.

“What I would like to emphasize is that we do not wish to define these disputes as military issues because they are political and diplomatic issues and they require political and diplomatic solution,” he said. “China has never regarded the dispute as a military dispute.”

The envoy also maintained that China will not wage a war against the Philippines, saying “it is not China’s policy and will not be China’s policy.”

Chiz says farmers deserve higher wages, decent living Senator Chiz Escudero is asking the government to come up with concrete measures to address the plight of the country’s impoverished farmers, who play a crucial role in achieving food security and self-sufficiency.

Escudero said the government should begin with ensuring decent wages to close to 12 million farm workers, comprising almost one-third of the country’s entire labor force.

“Measures must be drawn up to ensure decent wages to farm workers and improve their status in society,” Escudero said. “This is the best way to make our country’s economic growth inclusive because it will target the most impoverished sector in our society.”

Escudero noted that a significant proportion of farm workers in the country live just at or below the poverty line.

“In order to ensure the sustainability of the agriculture sector and food security, it becomes imperative for the government to safeguard the interest of farmers by assuring them decent levels of income and sustainable livelihoods,” he added.

Escudero underscored the need to provide farmers with better infrastructure and access to funding programs that would enable them produce food as

efficiently as possible and feed the country’s rapidly expanding population.

The senator issued the statement after Budget Secretary Florencio Abad admitted that not being able to implement a wage increase for local farmers was the country’s biggest missed opportunity under the Aquino administration.

Latest figures from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that the agriculture sector employed 11.84 million individuals in 2013, representing 31 percent of the national employment.

In the first half of 2013, the daily nominal wage rates were P256.52 for palay farm workers and P206.04 for corn farm workers.

Escudero said the dire conditions of Filipino farmers merely highlight the sorry state of the country’s agricultural sector.

“It’s sad to say but agriculture remains to be a poor man’s sector. Despite being a huge asset to national development, agriculture has been the most neglected and least understood sector of the nation’s economy,” Escudero lamented.

Escudero was confident that helping farmers improve their living condition standards would eventually result in increased production of locally grown staple and steady supply of agricultural products.

China ‘trying to hack into everything’: Clinton Glen, United States (AFP) Saturday 7/4/2015 – Hillary Clinton accused China on Saturday of “trying to hack into everything that doesn’t move in America” and stealing government information, in strongly worded comments likely to irk Beijing.

Clinton, a former secretary of state who is making another tilt at the White House in 2016, pulled no punches in remarks to Democratic supporters at a campaign event in New Hampshire.

James Clapper, the US director of national intelligence, said last month that China was the “leading suspect” in a massive breach affecting personal data of millions of US government employees.

Beijing dismissed the charge as “absurd logic.”

Clinton, the current frontrunner for the Democratic presidential nomination, said: “They’re trying to hack into everything that doesn’t move in America... stealing huge amounts of government information all looking for an advantage.

“Make no mistake, they know they’re in competition—and they’re gonna do everything they can to win.”

The US has in recent years blamed several hacks on Beijing, including some it says were carried out by members of the Chinese military.

Cybersecurity specialists say the breach of data on at least four million current and former US federal employees appeared to be part of a Chinese effort to build a database for espionage.

At the same event, Clinton said that engagement

was the best option when it comes to confronting Russian President Vladimir Putin.

“We have to be much smarter in how we deal with Putin and how we deal with his ambitions,” she said.

“I’ve dealt with him. I know him. He’s not an easy man.

“But I don’t think there is any substitute other than constant engagement.”

Relations between Moscow and Washington are at their lowest ebb since the Cold War over Russia’s actions in neighboring Ukraine. Moscow denies backing pro-Russian rebels in the east of the country.

Despite the tense ties, Putin sent a message earlier to US counterpart Barack Obama to mark Independence Day in the United States, saying that relations between Moscow and Washington were key to ensuring global stability, and calling for dialogue based on “equality and respect.”

Clinton also touched on Iran, which is thrashing out the fine details of a deal with world powers over its nuclear ambitions.

She warned, however, that even if an accord is sealed, “Iran’s aggressiveness will not end.”

“They will continue to be the principle state sponsor of terrorism,” Clinton said.

“They will continue to destabilize governments in the region and beyond.

“They will continue to use their proxies like Hezbollah. And they will continue to be an existential threat to Israel.”

Record 137,000 refugees, migrants crossed Mediterranean this year: UN

By Nina Larson

Geneva, Switzerland (AFP) Wednesday 7/1/2015 – A record 137,000 people made the perilous journey across the Mediterranean to Europe in the first half of 2015, most of them fleeing war, conflict and persecution, the United Nations said Wednesday “Europe is living through a maritime refugee crisis of historic proportions,” the UN refugee agency warned in a report. The numbers flooding across the Mediterranean, often in rickety boats and at the mercy of human traffickers, have swelled 83 percent compared to the first six months of 2014, when 75,000 people made the journey, it said.

The situation is expected to deteriorate further as more clement summer weather allows ruthless people smugglers to dispatch more people.

Arrivals in the second half of 2014 were for in-

stance nearly double those of the first half, UNHCR pointed out.

The immigration crisis is a burning issue for the EU, where member states have been wrangling over the best ways to tackle human trafficking and arguing over how to share the burden of helping new arrivals, many of them ill, starving and destitute.

The soaring numbers arriving in Italy and Greece, before moving on to other northern European states in the hope of finding jobs, has sparked outcry and growing anti-foreigner rhetoric in many countries.

The report hailed Brussel’s decision to distribute 40,000 Syrian and Eritrean asylum-seekers who have already arrived in Europe among EU members but called for greater solidarity between countries—to help both the migrants and the states worst affected by the crisis.

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Hogwash bribery probe There seems to be a concerted efforts by administration lawmakers to “shield” or withheld the identities of their fellow congressmen who allegedly accepted the $10 million bribe money in exchange for the swift passage of the controversial Malacañang-crafted Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

With the refusal of a news reporter to divulge her news sources and the identities of the congressmen who took bribe money, it will

be hard for the investigating panel to ferret produce the video footage to save whatout the truth about the alleged bribe. ever little respectability Congress still has.

The only thing that could help the House Rodriguez and his allies’ lame excuse is Committee on Good Government and the absence of the House security director Public Accountability, chaired by Liberal in charge of securing and storing CCTV Party Congressman Oscar Rodriguez of footage in the House. The House Security Pampanga, is the recovery of a missing director, Rodriguez said, is on leave.

CCTV footage taken in the House on May What a stupid excuse coming from a 25, 26 and 27. nincompoop. These lawmakers should all The CCTV footage, if ever it will be be booted out from Congress come elecproduced, will show if the alleged bribe tion day. money have actually been delivered by I hope that the House security director someone at the rear entrance of the House, will not also end up missing just like the all the way to the Office of the Speaker. video tape footage. I’m sure all the ConThe footage will also show who among gressmen who took the bribe money will the Congressmen were present in the Office not mind spending some of their “loot” of the Speaker. Despite its vital importance from Wang Bo to have the security director to uncover the truth regarding the bribery disappear for good. case, Rodriguez and his fellow administraI was just hoping that the reporter who tion lawmakers appears to be dragging their exposed the alleged bribery in Congress feet in producing the vital CCTV footage. has mustered enough courage to unmask Last month, the Manila Standard came all the Congressmen who took the bribe. out with the story saying that a $10 mil- I can’t blame her. Why would she risk her lion pay-off were given to some favored neck knowing that government cannot administration congressmen in exchange protect her and her family from harm. for the swift passage of the BBL in the Just like in previous congressional hearLower House. ings, this bribery allegation will be swept The supposed $10 million payola was under the rug by corrupt and thieving reportedly extracted by immigration offi- lawmakers. Unless the guilty lawmakcials from Wang Bo, a Chinese gambling ers are from the opposition, there is no lord who is being sought in China in con- way these congressmen will be prosnection with a $100 million criminal case. ecuted or persecuted under the current Wang Bo himself is also being investigated administration of President Noynoy.

by Congress to shed light on numerous re- Meanwhile, Interior Secretary Mar Roxas ports that immigration officials demanded must be experiencing a feeling of extreme $10 million from the Chinese fugitive euphoria, following the six-month prevento reverse a previous deportation order tive suspension of Makati Mayor Junjun against him.

Binay, as well as the possible suspension During the resumption of a Congres- or impeachment of Vice President Jejomar sional hearing on the alleged $10 million Binay for their involvement in anomalous payola, Congressman Oscar Rodriguez en- government contracts. gaged opposition lawmaker Ferdinand MarWe will see in the next few days or tin Romualdez from Leyte in a heated de- weeks what other measures or plans bate regarding the missing CCTV footage. Malacañang and the Roxas group will Romualdez is demanding House leaders to implement to completely derail the presi-

All lawmakers should be covered by ‘pork’ audit, including VP Binay critics: Anti-PDAF advocates MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – The pork barrel funds of all lawmakers, including the critics of Vice President Jejomar Binay in the Senate, should be subjected to audit to ensure none of them were misused, at least two anti-pork barrel advocates said Thursday.

“My position ever since is for the Priority Development Assistance Fund and Disbursement Acceleration Program funds of all legislators to be scrutinized too,” said lawyer Levito Baligod, former counsel of the whistleblowers in the alleged P10-billion pork barrel scam.

PDAF is the formal name of pork barrel, while DAP is the Aquino administration’s controversial program to speed up public spending and boost economic growth, a portion of which was declared unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.

For his part, Fr. Ranhilio Aquino, dean of the San Beda College Graduate School of Law and a known supporter of anti-pork barrel moves, said no lawmaker should be singled out in the audit.

“All PDAF expenditures of legislators should be audited,” he said.

Aquino added that it should be “obvious” that all lawmakers should be audited regardless if they are administration allies or critics.

Binay, embroiled in a corruption controversy together with his son, Makati

Mayor Junjun Binay, on Tuesday challenged his critics in the Senate – Sens.

Antonio Trillanes IV, Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, and Alan Peter Cayetano – to submit an audit of their respective projects funded by their PDAF, DAP, and other congressional insertions in the spirit of transparency.

But aside from focusing on pork barrel use from 2007 to 2009, as done by the Department of Justice (DOJ) in its investigation on the pork barrel scam, Baligod said the years 2004 to 2012 be also covered.

The DOJ investigation has resulted in the filing of a case against Sens.

Jinggoy Estrada, Juan Ponce Enrile and Ramon Bong Revilla Jr., all members of the opposition in the Senate, with the Sandiganbayan.

Baligod used to be the lawyer of whistleblower Benhur Luy and several other former employees of alleged scam mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles, who is already detained along with Estrada, Enrile and Revilla.

Asked if it was possible to find out if pork barrel funds of lawmakers like Trillanes, Pimentel, and Cayetano were also misused, Baligod said: “Lalabas po iyan kapag mayroon impartial investigation and we can provide some information kung sakali.”

dential ambition of VP Binay. The continuous allegations of corruption charges against the Binay family have somewhat put a big dent on the acceptability of Binay among voters .

The latest polls have indicated that neophyte Senator Grace Llamanzares Poe now leads Binay as the preferred choice of voters to be their next president. It is still too early to predict who will be the country’s next president.

People still don’t know if President

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Aquino will anoint Secretary Roxas as the administration presidential candidate to slug it out with VP Binay.

Or, it could be Senator Poe against Binay.

At least Poe has a better chance of besting Binay for the Presidency. Roxas has been a consistent third placer behind Poe and Binay in the polls.

I hope there will be a third force to run for the presidency so voters will have a better choice of selecting who will be their next president for the next six years.

PHL argues environmental, fishing claims vs China MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – After an “impassioned plea” from the foreign affairs secretary, the American lawyers of the Philippine government argued on Wednesday before the United Nations arbitral tribunal in The Hague the strength of the country’s environmental and fishing claims in the South China Sea. During the first day of oral arguments Tuesday, Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert Del Rosario accused China of violating international law by seizing territories in South China Sea “with overwhelming force.”

Deputy Presidential Spokesperson Abigail Valte said the second session focused on the country’s arguments against China that did not involve territorial disputes.

“Professor Alan Boyle presented to the tribunal arguments regarding the strength of the Philippines’ environmental and fishing claims against China” she said.

In addition to China’s claim on islands and maritime features within the 200-mile exclusive economic zones of its neighboring countries, it has also been accused of adversely affecting the environment and fishing communities with its massive reclamations in the environmentally sensitive area.

Environmental group Kalikasan PNE has called Chinese reclamation activities as an “ecological time bomb” that has been “wreaking havoc to the region’s marine

ecology.”

Malacañang has sent a team to represent the country in the arbitral tribunal, which will decide whether China’s nine-dash line claim is valid. China claims about 90 percent of South China Sea amid overlapping claims by other Asian countries. It has also refused to participate in the proceedings and instead continued to build artificial islands.

“For the continuation of the First Round of Arguments, the Philippines’ lawyers further explained to the Arbitral Tribunal how the case does not constitute specific exemptions under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), which would preclude the tribunal from exercising jurisdiction over the case,” Valte said.

She said Philippe Sands, part of the Philippine legal team and professor from Matrix Chambers in London, answered questions raised the day before while Advocates Lawrence H. Martin, Professor Bernard H. Oxman and Paul S. Reichler “took turns presenting arguments involving various points on why the Philippines’ claims fall squarely within the jurisdiction of the tribunal.”

“Professor Philippe Sands closed the First Round of Arguments by summarizing the submissions of the Philippines presented in the course of the hearings,” Valte added. (MNS)

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Some thoughts on Social Security retirement benefits

Many, after having worked for so long, have developed work-fatigue and are contemplating on opting for retirement at age 62. Fine! Here are some thoughts to consider before you jump into action.

Do you know that you can collect Social Security retirement benefits based on your ex-spouse’s earnings record even if you are divorced? Yes,

you can do that provided, your marriage lasted for 10 years, you are cur- a high life expectancy, especially women) rently unmarried, at least 62 years old, and and you will have more money if you take your benefit will be lower if based on your this path. earnings record.

Can you opt for this even if you are not a If you decide to collect at age 62, you U.S. citizen? Yes, if you are a resident alien may still work if you want to – to increase who pays into the Social Security systems, your earnings. But, your earnings will qualify for retirement benefits, possess be subject to the retirement earnings test lawful permission from the USCIS to work, because you have not reached full retire- and have a Social Security number. ment age. If your income exceeds the test Because of a law (Social Security Act limit, Social Security may withhold all or of 1973), your monthly Cost of Living Ala portion of your benefits. These withheld lowance (COLA) benefits will be adjusted benefits, however, will be repaid over your periodically to account for inflation. lifetime once you reach full retirement age.

Above thoughts are aimed to stimulate If you were born between 1943 and1954, discussions on the subject. They are not your full retirement age is 66. Those born intended to provide advice to anyone. in 1960 and later, full retirement age is at Each person’s case is unique. If you want 67. Those born in between (1954-1960) to continue this discussion with me, please will experience gradual adjustment. call me at 323-535-7373 or e-mail at: leo.

If you collect Social Security retirement balita@gmail.com. benefits before reaching full retirement Medicare News: Medicare Health Plans age, you lock-in a lower monthly benefit brokers are currently undergoing certificaamount (75%, more or less, of the amount tions in time for the Medicare Open Enrollyou get at full retirement age. If you delay ment (October 15 – December 7). until you reach full retirement age, you Leo Monsalud hails from Sta. Cruz, become eligible for delayed retirement Zambales. He studied at the Mary, Help credits. These credits increase your benefit of Christians Seminary, Binmaley, Panamount by 8% each year, up to a maximum gasinan. Studied for MBA and Law at the of 32% when you reach 70 (when no ad- University of the Philippines. He worked ditional credits accrue). File and suspend for United Laboratories, Inc. where his last collecting at full retirement age and you position held was vice-president assigned get entitled to a higher pay at 70. Compute as general manager of a division. He holds for the difference, do the math, assume you CA lic. # 0G55218 and a Non-Resident will live up to 95 (people in the U.S. have License for Nevada.

Get ready for full-body pampering this summer at the new LaVon Skin Care Makeover Studio!

Throughout the years, your trusted skin care shop LaVon Skin Care has been evolving, and this summer they finally deliver with a brand new concept, the LaVon Skin Care Makeover Studio!

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LaVon Skin Care is saying goodbye to their location next to Seafood City, and hello to a more spacious and convenient location next to the Cerritos Mall! They have many grand opening specials including the Summer Treat Promo! With this promo, if you bring a friend or new client to LaVonSkin Care Makeover Studio, your treatment will be 50% off!

It all starts with a complementary skin analysis and consultation where they can evaluate your skin and review your skincare goals, treatment options available, and cost of the treatment plan.

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In today’s world, it’s important to look and feel your best every day.

At LaVon Skin Care Makeover Studio, they offer a complete range of proven, nonsurgical, state-of-the-art skin treatments and skincare products that help restore and maintain the skin’s natural vitality. At LaVon Skin Care, their success has been built on these key principles: Safety First: Each procedure is provided by a highly qualified Licensed Estheticians. They make sure that after each treatment and procedure that all the tools

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ENTERTAINMENT

Julie Anne impresses American music producer Julie Anne San Jose says she was shocked when she heard the news that she is pregnant and the father is Kapamilya actor Coco Martin.

“Nagulat talaga ako kasi may video pa raw kami,” she says at her solo presscon for the launch of the music video of her single, “Tidal Wave,” that was shot in the U.S.A. no less. “Paano kaya mangyayari ‘yun, e hindi kami magkakilala at all. Ni hindi ko pa nga siya nami-meet in person. Ayoko na sanang sagutin ‘yan, kasi mamaya, ma-bash ako’t maakusahan namang nanggagamit ng iba para ako mapag-usapan.”

Julie Anne is so lucky to have met American record producer Sydney Omen Brown from Harlem in L.A. last year. He saw her show then invited her to record not just one but three music videos. This means Brown, who has produced songs for artists like Ludacris and Lil Wayne, really believes in her talent.

Aside from “Tidal Wave”, alight upbeat tune, she also did the music videos for the songs “Not Impressed” (which she says has an urban R&B underground sound) and “Forever” (which she says is more mature.) They’ll be released later this year.

All the music videos were done under the supervision of Mac House Productions and Julie Anne got to work with dancers and models of different nationalities.

“For the shoot, may scenes na nagiskateboard kami so nag-aral muna ako,” she says. “They were all nice and received me very warmly. They googled raw kung

and sexy, with a 23-inch waistline. She can really hit it big given the right projects.

Right now, she’s hosting “Day Off” on GNTV, is part of “Pepito Manaloto” and “Sunday All Stars”, and will soon be seen in the soap, “Buena Familia”, where she plays eldest daughter of Angelu de Leon and Bobby Andrews.

“Kapatid ko sina Julian Trono and Mona Louise Rey, but our dad has an older daughter from a previous relationship, si Kylie Padilla. Kylie is paired with Martin del Rosario while me, kay Jake Vargas.”

One writer wants to know: “May chem-

Julie Anne San Jose

sino ako and they became aware of my career dito sa ‘Pinas. Sabi nila, we’re gonna be famous in the Philippines because of Julie Anne. I really had a great experience working with them.”

She is paired with a handsome Caucasian guy named Kyle in “Tidal Wave” and the video ends with them being shown about to kiss each other. The video ends just before their lips touch. “Ay, hindi natuloy, bitin!” say the writers present at the launch of the video.

“Talagang hanggang doon lang po ‘yon,” says Julie Anne, who is now so slim

John Lloyd speaks up on MMFF snub Actor John Lloyd Cruz feels sad that his upcoming movie, “Honor Thy Father,” did not make it to the official list of entries in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

Cruz said he was looking forward to the screening of “Honor Thy Father” in the MMFF, believing that there are people who are looking for this type of movie.

Still, the actor said he respects the decision of the committee.

“Sayang kasi naniniwala talaga kami at ‘yung mga tao sa paligid namin. Naniwala talaga kami na mayroong ano, na mayroong naghahanap ng ganitong klaseng pelikula sa ganoong panahon, sa MMFF season,” he said in an interview with ABS-CBNnews.com and other reporters on Thursday on the set of “Maalaala Mo Kaya” in Bataan. “Malayo siguro sa criteria na mayroon ang MMFF, and we totally respect that. Siyempre, hindi naman kami ang committee, sila ang committee so they get to decide.”

“Pero nanghihinayang lang kami kasi we really want the story to be out there at mapanood ng madaming tao. But then again, going back to their criteria, we didn’t make it so we just move on,” he added.

Cruz went on to express his thoughts about the annual film festival.

John Lloyd

“Sayang kasi ang hinahanap ko lang din doon ay para mabigyan ng chance ang ganitong klaseng pelikula na maishowcase sa ganoong season. Kasi I believe ang MMFF ay para sa lahat ng klaseng pelikula, hindi lang sa siguradong blockbuster o tumatabo sa takilya but ‘yun nga, babalikan mo lang ang kanilang criteria,” he said.

When asked when “Honor Thy Father” will be shown in cinemas, Cruz said: “Wala eh, wala [akong idea]. Honestly, hindi ko alam kasi ang tagal din naming pinagdebatihan kung ipapasok namin sa MMFF.” Last week, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority released the official list of films included in the 41st MMFF.

Matt Evans, wife Katrina expecting second baby Matt Evans and his wife, Katrina Farinas, are expecting their second child together, the 28-year-old actor announced on Thursday.

In an Instagram post, Evans shared an ultrasound image of the baby, captioned: “See you soon, baby Evans #3!”

Evans’ first child is with his former partner, Johnelline Hickins, with whom he had an altercation that even resulted in his brief arrest in 2012. Farinas also has a child from a previous relationship.

They welcomed their first baby together in July 2014.

The couple’s pregnancy is the latest announcement from a celebrity about being an expectant parent, following the likes of Marian Rivera, Judy Ann Santos and Bianca Gonzalez. (MNS)

istry ba kayo ni Jake?”

“Meron naman po yata,” she replies.

“Kaya lang hindi ako puwede mag-heels pag magkaeksena kami.”

Honestly, we think that it would be best for her to be paired with Alden Richards, who has been without a soap for six months now and to whom she was linked before.

Like her, Alden doesn’t have a regular ka-loveteam now after her team up with Elmo Magalona broke up. We believe Julie Anne and Alden will look good together on screen and if they’re paired in a soap, we have no doubt it will be a big hit. (MNS)

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FOOD & DINING FAMILY FEATURES

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fter splashing in the pool, rooting on your favorite team or playing in the backyard, nothing beats the end of a long summer day like a cool, classic treat. So grab the kids, some bowls, spoons and the trusty old ice cream scoop — and dig in.

July is National Ice Cream Month, and aficionados agree that when it comes to the best tasting ice cream, “fresh” is the musthave ingredient. For nearly 80 years, Blue Bunny has been making premium ice cream using only the best, locally-sourced milk from within 75 miles and turning it into out-ofthis-world ice cream in less than 24 hours.

Dial up your summer fun with the freshness of ice cream and fruit with these recipes, and find more recipes at www.BlueBunny.com.

Cherry Vanilla Crumble Squares Prep time: 25 minutes Freeze time: at least 8 hours Makes: 9 servings 1 cup old fashioned oats (rolled oats) 1/2 cup whole wheat flour 1/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar 1/4 cup butter, melted 1 package (12 ounces) frozen dark sweet cherries, thawed and well drained 1/3 cup all fruit black cherry fruit spread 4 cups Blue Bunny Sweet Freedom Cherry Vanilla Ice Cream, softened In medium bowl, combine oats, flour, brown sugar and butter; mix thoroughly.

Remove 1/2 cup and set aside; pour remaining crumb mixture in an 8-by-8inch baking dish.

Coarsely chop cherries and transfer to

medium bowl. Add fruit spread, stirring to blend. Pour over crust, gently spreading evenly in bottom. Spoon ice cream over top, gently spreading evenly. Sprinkle with reserved crumb mixture.

Cover and freeze at least 8 hours. Cut into squares to serve.

Honey-Peach Frozen Yogurt Sundaes Prep time: 15 minutes Makes: 4 servings 1/3 cup walnut halves 2 medium fresh peaches, sliced 1/4 cup honey 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Pinch ground cloves 4 scoops (1/2 cup each) Blue Bunny Vanilla Bean Frozen Yogurt 2/3 cup fresh raspberries In medium skillet over medium heat, cook walnuts until toasted, about 5 minutes, stirring constantly. Cool. When cool enough to handle, chop very coarsely. Set aside.

In same skillet over medium heat, combine peaches, honey, cinnamon and cloves; cook and stir until peaches soften.

Cool several minutes before spooning equally over frozen yogurt.

Top each serving with about 4 raspberries. Serve immediately.

Cool Party Cubes Prep time: 30 minutes Freeze time: at least 1 hour Makes: 4 servings 2 squares (2 ounces) white chocolate baking squares 1/2 cup prepared vanilla frosting 4 Blue Bunny Premium Birthday Party Ice Cream Sandwiches 2 medium firm kiwi, peeled 1 3/4 cups halved small strawberries (or large strawberries cut into chunks) 3/4 cup fresh blueberries

3 tablespoons peach preserves (pineapple, mango or apricot could be substituted) Grate or shred white chocolate with box grater onto large plate. Thinly spread frosting on one side of one ice cream sandwich, keeping remaining sandwiches in freezer.

Press frosting side into white chocolate,

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spread frosting on unfrosted side, turn and press into white chocolate.

Return to freezer; repeat with remaining ice cream sandwiches. Freeze at least 1 hour, until solid. (May be kept covered in freezer overnight.)

Thirty minutes before serving, cut kiwi into thick slices, then cut slices into quarters. Place in medium bowl along with other fruit. Heat preserves in microwavesafe bowl, just until melted (20 seconds in a 1250 watt microwave), breaking up large pieces of fruit. Pour over fruit and toss to coat; chill 15 to 20 minutes.

Remove prepared ice cream sandwiches from freezer, cut each into bite-size squares; arrange with glazed fruit in 4 dessert bowls or plates.

Fruit Salsa Sundaes Prep time: 10 minutes Makes: 4 servings 1 cup fresh pineapple chunks 1 tablespoon light brown sugar 6 medium fresh strawberries, diced 1 large kiwi, peeled and diced 1/8 teaspoon ground cumin 4 small firm bananas, cut in half lengthwise 8 1/3 cups Blue Bunny Premium Banana Split Ice Cream Fat-free whipped topping, optional Chocolate sprinkles, optional 4 maraschino cherries, optional In medium skillet over medium-low heat, cook pineapple and brown sugar just until pineapple is softened, 5 minutes. Add strawberries, kiwi and cumin; cook several minutes until fruit is heated through.

Arrange 2 banana halves in each of 4 dessert bowls; top each with 2 scoops ice cream. Spoon glazed fruits equally over ice cream. Garnish with whipped topping, chocolate sprinkles and a maraschino cherry, if desired. Serve immediately.

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SPORTS Obama leads praise for US Women’s World Cup winners Los Angeles, United States (AFP) Monday 7/6/2015 – US President Barack Obama hailed America’s triumphant Women’s World Cup team on Sunday, inviting them to the White House minutes after their crushing 5-2 triumph over Japan in the championship match.

“What a win for Team USA! Great game Carli Lloyd! Your country is so proud of all of you,” Obama tweeted from his @POTUS handle, hailing Lloyd’s three-goal performance.

“Come visit the White House with the World Cup soon,” he added. “#Magisterial” and “#Rout” were just two of the comments tweeted by NBA superstar Kobe Bryant as the Americans took control with an early burst of goals in the Vancouver match.

Lloyd scored in the third and fifth minutes before Lauren Holiday made it 3-0 in the 14th and Lloyd then completed her

hattrick in the 16th to make it 4-0.

“Love watching history being made,” tweeted 14-time major golf champion Tiger Woods. “There is nothing like it.

Go USA!” R&B queen Beyonce tweeted a picture of herself – clad in a football jersey – watching the game on television.

Across the country, fans piled into bars, decked out in red, white and blue and watched their team avenge a loss on penalties to Japan in the 2011 World Cup final in Germany.

The Americans’ progress to the final had galvanized supporters back home.

The US victory over Germany in the semi-finals was the third most-watched women’s football match ever with 8.4 million viewers, trailing only the USA-China final in 1999 and the USA-Japan final in 2011, US Soccer said.

Watch parties from coast to coast – in

venues ranging from baseball stadiums to city halls – attracted thousands on Sunday.

That included a big-screen festival organized by US Soccer in Chicago’s Lincoln Park where the rapid-fire first four goals sent spectators into a frenzy.

“It was an awesome game,” fan Tom Zeman told Chicago television station WLS. “So much fun. So much fun to watch.”

For many, the game was a chance to extend the patriotic July 4 Independence Day holiday by an extra day.

Meanwhile America’s men’s side were at work at the weekend, preparing to launch their defense of the Gold Cup regional football crown on Tuesday.

Striker Jozy Altidore tweeted a picture of US players watching the game on a team bus.

“Cheering on our girls!!” Altidore tweeted. “Keep it up ladies.”

Two Americans, Briton gored in opening Pamplona bull run Pamplona, Spain (AFP) Tuesday 7/7/2015 – Two Americans and a British man were gored and eight others hurt on Tuesday as runners dashed ahead of six half-ton fighting bulls in a fast first running of the bulls at Spain’s annual San Fermin festival.

A 30-year-old British man was gored between the legs in the perineum area, the regional government of Navarra, of which Pamplona is the capital, said in a statement.

A 38-year-old from California was gored in his right armpit and another 27-year-old American was also gored in an undisclosed spot.

None of the injuries were considered to be life-threatening.

Eight other men, including three Americans, were treated in hospital for bruises and scrapes suffered in falls.

Runners, wearing traditional white clothing and red kerchiefs around their necks, tripped over each other or fell in the mad rush as they and the animals charged down a winding 846.6-metre (925-yard) course from a pen to the city’s bull ring in two minutes, 23 seconds.

Some dared to run just at arm’s length from the six huge bulls and six steers that accompany them, glancing nervously behind at the beasts’ curved horns.

One black bull raced ahead of the pack and made several charges at the runners, who scrambled to get out of the way.

Fifteen people have been killed in the bull runs since modern day records started in 1911, most recently in 2009 when a bull gored a 27-year-old Spaniard in the neck, heart and lungs.

The bulls used in Tuesday’s run came

from the Jandilla ranch in Spain’s southern region of Andalucia, the same ranch that supplied the animals responsible for the last fatal goring at San Fermin.

Five Spaniards, two Australians and one American were gored in last year’s festival in Pamplona.

People come from all over the world to test their bravery and enjoy the festival’s nonstop street parties which last until July 14. The festival was immortalized by author Ernest Hemingway in his 1926 novel “The Sun Also Rises”.

Last year just over 17,000 people joined the festival’s eight daily bull runs with over half of them, 56 percent, coming from abroad, according to Pamplona city hall.

The United States, Australia, New Zealand and Britain accounted for the greatest number of foreign bull run participants.

LeBron James stays with Cavs Los Angeles, United States (AFP) Thursday 7/9/2015 – LeBron James has ended speculation about his future after agreeing a two-year deal which will see him remain with the Cleveland Cavaliers next season, multiple reports said Thursday.

The NBA superstar has reportedly agreed a contract worth nearly $50 million after opting out of a two-year deal on June 29 to reach free agency.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported on its website that the deal comprised a $23 million contract for next season followed by a $24.7 million option for the 2016-2017 season.

James’s opt out decision was widely interpreted as a gambit designed to ensure the Cavaliers sign more top talent for next season after losing this year’s NBA finals.

Earlier this week point guard Mo Williams said he had agreed a deal with the Cavs which would see him reunite with James.

Williams played with James for two seasons between 2008-2010.

The Cavs have also handed lucrative contracts to forward Kevin Love and point guard Kyrie Irving, further enticing James to stay.

Cleveland is also close to agreeing a new deal with restricted free agent Tristan Thompson, who shares an agent with James.

The Cleveland Plain Dealer said Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert had splurged around $330 million on contracts to surround James with a team capable of challenging for the title.

James averaged around 25.3 points and six rebounds per game during the regular season in 2014-15, but sharply improved his numbers during the Cavs playoff challenge.

He averaged 30.1 points per game in the playoffs, which ultimately ended with a 4-2 loss in the Finals to Golden State Warriors.

San Antonio Spurs veteran Tim Duncan agreed to a paycut before resigning with the team Thursday at $5 million for one year.

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COMMUNITY

Asian Americans rapidly on the move Buying power expected to hit $1-T by 2018

By Hannah De Castro-Abinuman

Asian Americans are making a significant and powerful impact on the new American mainstream. Nielsen’s 2015 Asian American Consumer report entitled, “Asian-Americans: Culturally Connected and Forging the Future,” radically highlights how this flourishing segment is making a powerful impact on today’s economy and culture with their unique tastes, preferences and habits. In one year, the buying power of this market segment notably increased by more than $50 Billion. In its most recent report, Nielsen says the Asian American segment is considered as the fastest growing and most culturally diverse segment in the US population and is perceived to potentially be the multicultural majority in the United States in the near future.

In 2014, the Asian-American Buying power was at $770 billion. Showing a 46% growth in population from 2012 to 2014, this unique market segment is expected to increase its buying power to $1 Trillion by 2018.

“Asian Americans are focused on the future, trendsetting and leading the way in technology, digital entertainment and fresh food while maintaining strong ties to their cultural heritage. Increasingly ambicultural, Asian Americans’ cultural identities are shaping the mainstream market.” said Betty Lo, Nielsen’s vice president of Community Alliances & Consumer Engagement. “ Nielsen’s report examines AsianAmerican consumption behaviors in relation to the food, beverage and health and

beauty categories. In addition, Nielsen has provided more detail on the ever-evolving technology and digital content categories, where Asian-Americans continue to exceed and are trendsetters when compared to the general consumer market in America.

Here are the highlights indicated in the media briefing recently done by Nielsen: Asian-Americans are: Diverse and Culturally confident – their culture defines their shopping habits. They are increasingly confident about sustaining their cultural roots and are assertive about their shopping tastes and preferences.

Asian Americans are generally wealthier than the average American household.

One the Move – Majority of the AsianAmericans in the U.S. are living in major urban areas of West Coast and Northeast, but their numbers are also growing in the suburbs and in parts of the Midwest and South.

On a journey from Inner health to outer well-being – They are drawn to brands that speak to the holistic dimension of Asian traditions. These consumers want product and services that reflect and complement “dual” lifestyles that engage both their native culture and the American mainstream.

Family-centric – They tend to live in extended multi-generational households.

Thus, they often shop in bulk and seek saving for the entire family budget. AsianAmericans frequently shop at warehouses for good deals on bulk purchases.

Long-life buyers – Asian-Americans have a higher life expectancy and a lower median age than non-Hispanic whites.

Discriminating shoppers who want and

Nielsen says the Asian American segment is considered as the fastest growing and most culturally diverse segment in the US population and is perceived to potentially be the multicultural majority in the United States in the near future. In 2014, the Asian-American Buying power was at $770 billion. Showing a 46% growth in population from 2012 to 2014, this unique market segment is expected to increase its buying power to $1 Trillion by 2018.

demand the best quality at a good price – Millenial Asian-Americans are loyal to brands. They do not mind spending more for quality wine and beauty products.

Socially empowered and digitally adept – Asian Americans lead the way in technology, including both mobile and social media.

Increasingly “ambicultural” consumers – They are able to navigate the American mainstream in a way that maintains their native culture with effortless duality.

These significant insights aid us in understanding how cultural identity plays a major role in molding the Asian-Americans’ buying habits and can provide the basis for

a business strategy to activate the fastestgrowing and highest income consumer segment in the American mainstream.

“Being someone who works in the advertising and marketing industry, reports like this get us so excited because having been in this business for 20 years, we know how lacking data is about the Asian consumer…” said Nita Song, president and chief operating officer of multicultural advertising agency IW Group and member of the Nielsen Asian Pacific American External Advisory Council. “Without data, companies don’t make very critical decisions.”

Source: Nielsen’s 2015 Asian American Consumer Report

California proclaims special day honoring Fil-Am labor leader It’s official: California will observe a Larry Itliong Day each year to honor the legacy of the Filipino American labor organizer who fought for racial justice and farmworkers’ rights.

Governor Jerry Brown yesterday (Wednesday in Manila) signed into law AB 7 proclaiming the commemorative day on October 25, Itliong’s birthday.

“Larry Itliong was one of the greatest labor organizers and leaders in California history,” said Assemblymember Rob Bonta (D-Oakland), the bill’s sponsor.

“He was a hero not only to the Filipino-American community, but to all Californians and Americans who fought and continue to fight for socioeconomic and racial justice in our state and nation.”

The legislation, which was unanimously passed by the State Assembly on April 9, also encourages public schools to teach about Iltiong’s life and contributions to California.

Bonta, the first Filipino American elected to the Assembly, said the historic signing ensures that Itliong’s fight for justice, opportunity and equity will be “properly honored for generations to come.”

Itliong worked alongside prominent Mexican American civil rights leaders like Cesar Chavez to fight for equal rights, better conditions and wages for Filipino and Mexican farmworkers in the ‘60s and early ‘70s.

But his contributions to the farm labor movement have been overlooked, said Bonta and many Fil-Am groups who have fought for the recognition of Itliong and other Fil-Am labor leaders like Andy Imutan and Philip Vera Cruz.

Itliong led the Agricultural Workers Organizing Committee (AWOC), which was the first to strike for improved wages and working conditions in Delano in 1965. What became known as the Delano Grape Strike launched the California farm labor movement.

AWOC and the National Farm Workers Association, led by Cesar Chávez and Dolores Huerta, joined forces soon thereafter – at the urging of Itliong – to start the now internationally famous United Farm Workers of America.

“While the farm labor movement is often seen predominantly as a Latino movement, it encompassed much more than just one ethnic group,” said Bonta, whose parents organized farmworkers in Kern County.

“Filipino American and Latino labor leaders built a beautiful collaborative relationship to create the farm worker movement in California, and Larry Itliong played a critical leadership role in that movement. I’m grateful to have this opportunity to recognize his contributions to California.”

Itliong was from San Nicolas, Pangasinan. He migrated to the United States in 1929 at the age of 15.

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Minions invade McDonald’s with proceeds supporting families with critically-ill children

“Dancing Like the Stars” winners (from left): Lily Llanes-Tan & Jovi Zamora, 3rd place; Jazmine Reyes & Rodrigo Guzman, 1st place; Rachele Lin & Derek Tang, 2nd place. The event was produced by RSG Foundation’s Mary Ann Samadi (inset) was held The Omni Hotel in downtown Los Angeles. Photo: Benny Uy

Rev. Fr. Marinello ‘Melo’ R. Saguin joins parishioners at St. Martha’s Catholic Church in Valinda, Calif., after celebrating Mass on June 14, 2015.

New Filipino priest in Los Angeles Archbishop Jose Gomez ordained 30-year-old Fr. Marinello ‘Melo’ R. Saguin to the priesthood, along with seven other men, during a Mass celebrated at the Cathedral of the Angels on May 30, 2015. The son of the late Ruel Aguila Saguin and Marilyn Cervantes Saguin from Los Angeles, said that he first thought of a priestly vocation when he was preparing for the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the

second grade. He celebrated his first Mass at the Holy Family Church in Glendale on May 31, 2015 at 11:00 a.m., and his parish assignment as Associate Pastor is St. Margaret Mary Alacoque in Lomita. When asked for advice for men discerning priesthood, he said, “A priest must have the heart to receive and give love! After all he is a father to his people, who is pointing them to a reward that is beyond this life.”

LOS ANGELES – Early this week, McDonald’s has started bringing the special mischievous fun of the Minions to kids and families across the Southland. In partnership with NBC/Universal the lovable trio of Kevin, Stuart and Bob will take over the popular McDonald’s Happy Meals, which will include one of twelve Minions sound toys, and a choice of Minion themed milk, apple slices or a new StrawberryBANANA flavored Yoplait Go-GURT, which tap into the Minions love and obsession with bananas. Happy Meals are an important part of how the McDonald’s Operators’ Association of Southern California (MOASC) supports Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California (RMHCSC.) With every Happy Meal sold at participating McDonald’s restaurants, a portion of the proceeds are donated to the Chapter to help keep families close to their critically-ill child.

“The Happy Meal fundraising program underscores our commitment to Ronald McDonald House Charities of Southern California and the kids and families we serve in our community,” said Clay Paschen, III McDonald’s owner/operator and president of the McDonald’s Operators’ Association of Southern California.

“Minions is another opportunity for our customers to join in on the fun that only McDonald’s can deliver, all while contributing to the support we provide for the kids and families of RMHCSC.” In Southern California, RMHCSC supports thousands of families every year through six Ronald McDonald Houses in Bakersfield, Loma Linda, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Orange and Pasadena, two Ronald McDonald Family Rooms at Children’s Hospital of Orange County (CHOC) and CHOC Children’s at Mission Hospital in Mission Viejo and Camp Ronald McDon-

ald for Good Times. Additionally, with the support of MOASC and RMHC Global, RMHCSC has provided more than $5 million in college scholarships to deserving high school students and more than $25 million through its Community Grants Board to local non-profit organizations making an immediate, positive impact on children who need it most.

The Minion Happy Meal promotion will run from July 7-30 in participating restaurants across the country. Customers can join the mania by peeling fun Minion game pieces from some of their favorite McDonald’s food items. Each game piece will reveal 1 of 3 images; a McDonald’s instant win food prize, an instant win prize from NBC/Universal or a Minion themed piece that will include a code which goes toward the online jackpot of up to $250,000 per week. In total, McDonald’s is giving away $1 million dollars over the course of the game. Every code entered online adds $1 to the weekly jackpot as well as one entry into the weekly sweepstakes.

In Southern California, customers can follow McDonald’s on Twitter via @McDonalds_SoCal where fans can participate in a ten day photo challenge starting July 6th. Fans that complete the daily photo challenge will be eligible to win a prize pack which will include a complete set of Minions Happy Meal toys, movie tickets to enjoy the new Minion movie, and a pair of passes to Universal Studios.

About McDonald’s of Southern California MOASC is comprised of more than 600 franchised and company-owned McDonald’s restaurants in Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura counties. Learn more at mcdonaldssocal. com and follow us on Twitter: @McDonalds_SoCal.

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Can Senator Antonio Trillanes IV connect Pact with devil? California the dots on Binay’s ‘ghost employees’? farmers use oil firms’ water

By Veronique Dupont

By Myrna Aquitania On a recent warm LA afternoon, this author had the privilege of watching the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s probe on the corruption allegations against Vice President Jejomar Binay. During the hearing, Senator Antonio Trillanes IV claimed that he has “evidence to prove that the City of Makati has ghost employees.”

The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee, headed by Senator Koko Pimentel, first called on Vissa Marie Aldon, head of the Human Resources Department at the City of Makati, but when she was questioned

by Sen. Trillanes, she appeared “confident” when she answered , thus denying the probe of Senator Trillanes, and she emphatically said that they, the City of Makati can “account for all of its salaried employees.”

On the contrary, Trillanes responded otherwise; he further reminded Ms. Aldon that she’s under oath and might eventually regret it if she finds out that the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee has names of “ghost employees” on their payroll. Aldon continued on, confirming that Vice President Binay’s Executive Assistant and Secretary, Eduviges “ Ebeng” Baloloy “continues to receive her salary and benefits from the city government.”

Trillanes on the other hand, countered Aldon’s claim on Baloloy because he (Trillanes) has proof that Baloloy has allegedly left the country, due to the rise of corruption allegations against Binay. Aldon then confirmed that Baloloy has “filed an application for leave last year which was

approved.”

On that note, Trillanes then requested the subcommittee to subpoena all payroll documents, including vouchers received

by Makati City employees.

In lieu of the temporary suspension of Makati City Mayor Junjun Binay, the Vice President’s son, ordered by the Office of the Ombudsman, Acting Makati Mayor Romulo “Kid” Pena has apparently “suspended the release of Baloloy’s salary.”

Further, during the hearing, Undersecretary Cecilia Alba testified that Vice President Binay’s alleged “bagman” named Gerry Limlingan was hired as a Consultant by the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), which was an agency the Vice President used to head.

She also said that Mr. Limlingan was a Consultant of HUDCC from August 2010, but that he has “not been reporting to HUDCC, and that her office has issued a letter asking him to report within a period of time but they never received any communication from him, so they pre-terminated Mr. Limlingan’s contract on September 30, 2014.”

It is noteworthy to say that we’re grateful to have Senate hearings like these become readily available on live television so Pinoys all over the world can watch how our politicians work back home. I can’t wait to watch more relevant hearings like these.

We will keep you updated on the ongoing probe of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee’s hearings in our future issues. (You can email Myrna at maquitania@aol.com)

The World Championships of Performing Arts competitions begin this Sunday in Long Beach The World Championships of Performing Arts is the only international performing arts talent competition and educational experience of its kind held annually in Los Angeles, CA. Entertainment industry professionals judge, conduct boot camp workshops, sign talent and give $380,000 in scholarships at this annual “world talent contest.” Judging location will be held at The Westing Long Beach Hotel located at 333 E. Ocean Blvd., Long Beach, CA 90802. Opening ceremonies will take place this Sunday, July, 12. Competitions begin this Monday, July 13 for the Preliminary Round. For more information, please call (562) 436-3000.

ILYAS BIN MOHD YUSOF with his mother, Siti Khatijah Medina Bte Abdullah, graduated with honor and a medallion award from Long Beach Polytechnic High School last June 16, 2015.

Ilyas was the section leader of the Euphonium Section of the school’s Symphonic Winds for 3 years and was also the section leader for the Jazz and Chamber Choir for 2 years. He was part of the All District Orchestra and Choir that played side by side with the Long Beach Symphony Orchestra.

Bakersfield, United States (AFP) Friday 7/3/2015 – An efficient solution to a historic drought, or an environmentally risky pact with the devil?

That’s the question being raised by critics about Californian farmers who irrigate their crops with waste water supplied by oil companies, in an arrangement slammed as dangerous by environmental campaigners.

Driving into the parched region around Bakersfield, in the western US state’s fertile Central Valley, it is evident how closely the agriculture and oil industries are related.

Lines of orchards stand near fields of oil wells stretched out as far as the eye can see.

Eighty percent of the state’s oil production and 45 percent of the farming industry is concentrated in a single county, Kern County, said Madeline Stano of the Center on Race, Poverty and the Environment.

With temperatures frequently exceeding 40 Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) in the summer, water is in scarce supply.

After four years of record drought, farmers can no longer pump water from rivers whose levels are dangerously low.

Drawing from the water table is also increasingly difficult: more than 1,000 wells have dried up in the region.

In a bid to diversify supplies, the Cawelo Water District, a cooperative financed by local farmers, has for 20 years used waste water from oil companies.

Abby Auffant, spokeswoman for oil giant Chevron, explained that crude comes out of the ground mixed with water, from which it must be separated.

Separating the water from the crude is a process that actually benefits oil firms, according to Stano.

“It’s hard for the oil industry to get rid of, so it’s a win-win for the oil companies” when they are able to sell the water, she said.

Chevron’s Kern River operation sells some 500,000 barrels of waste water per day to the Cawelo Water District, which currently gets 50 percent of its supplies from the oil company.

The water is cleaned by a filtering system and piped to a reservoir where it is combined with supplies from other neighboring oil plants, before being mixed with fresh water and then distributed to some 90 local farms and vineyards.

SCE maps out its vision for the electric grid of the future Plan would bring sweeping changes to the way customers interact with a more resilient, reliable and low-carbon power network of tomorrow

ROSEMEAD, Calif., July 1, 2015– Southern California Edison (SCE) today filed its Distribution Resources Plan (DRP) with the California Public Utilities Commission. The filing is the next step in a proceeding the commission initiated last August to move toward full integration of Distributed Energy Resources (such as rooftop solar, storage, electric vehicle charging, energy efficiency and demand response) in operations, investment and distribution system planning.

In the past, SCE produced or bought power from large, centralized power sources and delivered it to customers – only requiring a “one-way road.” In the future, the electric distribution system will deliver power from many sources, including from customers. This means power flows back from customers to the distribution system at times, requiring a “two-way road”.

This “two-way road” could come with traffic congestion that will increase without an upgraded grid. The Distributed Resources Plan provides a road map to address this issue. SCE’s filing includes five key guiding principles in planning, creating and operating the power network of tomorrow: – Ensure safety, reliability and resilience; – Promote customer choice of new technologies; – Reduce greenhouse gases; – Provide affordable and equitable costs of electric service; and – Use competitive processes for procuring clean-energy resources “As more customers adopt cleanenergy technologies like solar panels and energy storage equipment in their homes

and businesses, the grid will become much more complicated to operate,” said SCE President Pedro Pizarro. “The DRP is our game plan to build a state-of-the-art power network that is essential to assure reliability, power quality, customer choice of new technologies and to further reduce greenhouse gases.”

SCE’s filing also includes the company’s proposal to address the following commission requirements: – Evaluating the ability of the distribution system to integrate Distributed Energy Resources and development of tools to analyze the value of locations for those resources.

– Development of demonstration projects.

– Provision of data access.

– Assessment of tariff and contract implications.

– Identification of safety considerations.

– Description of barriers to deployment of Distributed Energy Resources.

– Coordination of the DRP with SCE’s general rate case.

– Phasing of next steps.

The company’s plan addresses all these requirements and proposes other sweeping changes to the way it operates, while maintaining a resilient, reliable and low-carbon power network that offers customers a choice in how they consume and produce energy.

“We’re moving toward a ‘plug-andplay’ system,” said Pizarro. “The coming power network will make it easier for customers to plug in many types of energy technologies, whether it’s an electric vehicle, solar panels or energy storage devices.”

About Southern California Edison An Edison International (NYSE:EIX) company, Southern California Edison is one of the nation’s largest electric utilities, serving a population of nearly 14 million via 5 million customer accounts in a 50,000-square-mile service area within Central, Coastal and Southern California.

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Photo above shows (from left) Andres Isabelo Roberto Moran of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo, Atty. Lat, NTFP’s Ruth Canlas, Piňa artist India Dela Cruz-Legaspi T’nalak master weaver Bernadeth Ofong, Acting Head of Post Imelda Panolong, NTFP’s Benilda Ronquillo-Camba and Trade Representative Jose Ma. Dinsay.

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Photo above shows T’boli Tribe and t’nalak master weaver Bernadeth Ofong of Lake Sebu, South Cotabato explaining the t’nalak.

Consulate hosts PHL participants to the 2015 Int’l Folk Art Market Los Angeles, July 9, 2015 – The PHL Consulate General in coordination with PHL Trade Representative Jose Ma. Dinsay welcomed the PHL delegation to the 2015 International Folk Art Market (IFAM) on 06 July 2015 at the Philippine Consulate General.

The Philippine Delegation is headed

by Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP) Board of Trustees Secretary Atty. Tanya Karina Lat. NTFP refers to all biological materials other than timber that are extracted from forests for human use. NTFP is a regional organization. NTFP-EP Philippines is a network of NGOs and People’s Organizations working towards the empowerment of forest-dependent communities to strengthen, develop and promote non-timber forest products (NTFP)-based forest management strategies that are sustainable, culturally-appropriate and gender responsive. NTFP has 15 partners working in 13 provinces throughout the Philippines.

The CustomMade Crafts Center Inc. (CMCC) is an initiative of NTFP-EP Philippines to expand the market for indigenous and rural crafts in the Philippines. CMCC advocates fair trade and environmentally sustainable production practices. It aims is to create a regular source of livelihood for forest dependent communities and to support the continuation of their traditional arts. This is the reason why it continues to identify markets for Philippine crafts such as the IFAM. The IFAM, which expects to draw 20,000 visitors, will be held in Santa Fe, New Mexico from 10 to 12 July 2015.

IFAM is touted to be the largest and most prestigious folk art market in the world, bringing together artisans from all over the world and providing the venue to show their handmade masterworks drawn from old traditions and cultures. The crafts and products are chosen by a selection committee composed of folk art curators,

collectors and experts.

This is the second year that the NTFP and its marketing arm CMCC are participating in the IFAM. This year, two new traditions are being introduced, the Piňa, considered to be the “queen of Philippine fabrics,’ and the Tingkep from Palawan. The tingkep is a special basket of the Pala’wan tribe used for practical and spiritual purposes.

The featured artists are T’boli tribe, T’nalak master weaver Ms. Bernadeth Ofong from Lake Sebu, South Cotabato and Piňa artist, Ms. Anna India Dela Cruz-Legazpi from Kalibo, Aklan. They are here as part of the PHL delegation to participate and exhibit their masterworks.

The Philippines will be featuring six (6) folk art traditions: 1. The piňa weaves of Kalibo, Aklan; 2. The t’nalak of the T’boli of Lake Sebu; 3. The tingkep baskets of the Pala’wan

tribe of Palawan; 4. The hinabol of the Higaonon of Imapasug-ong, Bukidnon; 5. The geometric waves of the Yakan tribe of Zamboanga and Basilan; and, 6. The tapis of the Kalinga tribe.

Also part of the delegation is Mr. Andres Isabelo Roberto Y Moran who presented the prospects of Sta. Barbara, Iloilo as a creative city, folk art hub, and showcase of heritage conservation.

More than a selling mission, IFAM provides the opportunity for indigenous weavers and folk artists all over the world to promote their products, meet prospective buyers, and open more markets. IFAM will open doors for other Philippine weavers and artisans in succeeding years as well as revitalize interest and generate demand for hand-woven textile in the Philippines. This is the type of economic miracle that NTFPEP Philippines hopes to bring to indigenous people back home in the Philippines.

Hidden electrical dangers can make for troubled waters Swimming pools and lakes pose serious risks that can be eliminated by inspection, maintenance and recognition this summer

By Paul Netter

Southern California Edison Sink or swim.

How about inspect and swim? Or, in some situations, don’t swim at all?

Neither has the same ring as the famous fail-or-succeed idiom, but with summer in full gear, failure is not an option. There are hidden electrical dangers in swimming pools and freshwater lakes, ponds and rivers.

Though drowning remains the biggest pool safety issue, there have been tragic reminders of the risk of electrical shock while swimming.

As a pool and Jacuzzi owner, as well as a licensed electrician, Mark Chapman says the most common problem he sees is old equipment, which can lead to the two biggest electrical hazards inside a pool: faulty underwater lights and their wiring.

This is where inspection comes in.

“You don’t want to swim in a pool with a cracked or broken light, that’s for sure,” said Chapman, a 30-year electrical foreman at Southern California Edison (SCE), which offers apool pump rebate program to assist customers.

Chapman added, “Pool equipment should be checked annually by a licensed electrician before people start using pools for the summer. And, people should never do the work themselves.”

Checkups are particularly important for older pools, but so is a properly grounded power system on all pools. Chapman says a well-grounded system must be protected

by Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters (GFCIs) – which should be on any outlets within 20 feet of the water’s edge.

This is all crucial advice because of the 60 electrocutions and nearly 50 serious electrical shocks in and around swimming pools in the country since 1990.

Because of this, Chapman also advises downgrading pool lighting of 120 volts – more likely in older pools – to 15 volts and never using electrical cords within five feet of a pool.

But not swimming at all? This is advised around boats, marinas and docks in freshwater lakes, ponds and rivers because of the obscure invisible danger known as electric shock drownings.

Electric shock drownings claimed several young lives during the summer three years agoand mostly occur in freshwater when leaking voltage from a boat, marina or dock incapacitates nearby swimmers.

It is believed that many electric shock drownings go unreported since electricity usually isn’t considered in a drowning and no agency tracks such deaths.

In addition to heeding that warning, electric shock drownings can be prevented by owners having Equipment Leakage Circuit Interrupters (ELCI) on boats or GFCIs on marinas and docks. Both devices are equipped to keep electricity out of the water.

“It is best that people not swim around marinas and docks with electricity or boats plugged into their electrical outlets,” said Don Neal, SCE director of Corporate En-

A licensed electrician – and not homeowners – should do annual inspection and maintenance to ensure pools are safe and in accordance with local codes and the National Electrical Code.

vironmental, Health and Safety. “These are very preventable accidents, but unfor-

tunately people often don’t become aware of these dangers until there’s a tragedy.”

NaFFAA Commends Carnegie’s tribute to immigrants Washington, D.C. “We are heartened by Carnegie Corporation’s July 4th tribute to immigrants and their vital contributions to this country,” says NaFFAA National Chairman JT Mallonga, in a statement praising the corporation’s “Great Immigrants: The Pride of America” initiative.

This year, 39 naturalized citizens from more than 30 countries are being honored for helping strengthen American democracy and advancing U.S. society, culture and economy. Among the honorees are two Filipino Americans: Seton Hall University President Dr. A. Gabriel Esteban and U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Antonio Taguba (Ret.) “Our founder, Andrew Carnegie, came to this country as the son of impoverished immigrants and grew up to become one of the greatest contributors to American industry and philanthropy,” said Carnegie Corporation President Vartan Gregorian.

“His devotion to U.S. democracy stemmed from his conviction that the new infusion of talent that immigrants bring to our country keeps American society vibrant,” added Gregorian.

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MOTORING Honda fit is mega hit with buyers and critics alike Offering one of the most space efficient and versatile packages in the U.S. market, the 2016 Honda Fit tops it off with fun, fuel efficiency and style TORRANCE, Calif. Jun 30, 2015 – Launching last year to strong reviews and eager buyers, the third-generation Honda Fit has since set a blistering sales pace while continuing to garner praise. Now the playful and practical 2016 Fit is ready to take the baton, carrying forward bestin-class passenger and cargo space, 41 mpg highway fueleconomy rating1 and sporty yet refined dynamics when it goes on sale July 1 at Honda dealerships nationwide.

With a starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP)2 of $15,790 for the Fit LX with 6-speed manual transmission, the 2016 Fit includes an abundance of classabove standard features including roofline spoiler, LED taillights, Bluetooth connectivity and a rearview camera.

All Fits are powered by a responsive direct-injected1.5liter i-VTEC® engine from the Honda Earth Dreams Technology lineup, producing 130 horsepower3 and 114 pound feet of torque4, with an EPA fuel-economy rating of 33/41/36 (city/highway/combined)5 for the LX with Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).

“The new Fit has been a tremendous hit with buyers

seeking a fun, practical and stylish transportation solution,” said Jeff Conrad, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Honda. “It’s a satisfying car for a wide variety of needs and lifestyles.”

Outstanding versatility is fundamental to the design of the Fit. With class-leading interior space and clever configurability courtesy of its center-mounted fuel tank and ingenious Magic Seat, the Fit epitomizes functionality with spacious and comfortable seating for five and the ability to accommodate large amounts of cargo, including long and tall items.

The 2016 Fit offers a sophisticated yet sporty ride, with responsive and stable handling dynamics. Honda’s nextgeneration Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure also benefits handling, as well as safety performance. In fact, the Fit achieves the highest crashsafety ratings in its class for both the U.S. government and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

An Earth Dreams Technology direct-injection 1.5L DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine powers the Fit. It’s tuned for a fine balance of power, torque and response, and is carefully matched with two recently developed transmissions – a slick-shifting 6-speed manual and a CVT with Honda’s exclusive G-Shift Control. The 2016 Fit has an EPA fuel-economy rating of 29/37/32 (city/highway/ combined)5 for the manual transmission, 33/41/36 for the LX trim with CVT and 32/38/35 for the EX and EX-L

trim with CVT. The Fit sports a fresh, dynamic exterior design with headlights that integrate into a solid grille design and an aggressive lower intake. Chiseled sides emphasize the wheels and the dynamically tapered roofline that terminates in a color-matched spoiler. Eight colors, including several vibrant options accentuate the design.

Inside, the Fit’s interior room and visibility create a sense of airy spaciousness, complemented by soft-touch materials for a quality feel. The available Display Audio touchscreen interface and available leather seating (EX-L models) further communicate a premium feel.

A high level of standard and available features are offered in three trims – LX, EX, and EX-L. Standard features on all Fit models include auto on-off headlights, LED brake lights, Bluetooth HandsFreeLink and a center storage console with armrest.

Items such as Smart Entry Push Button Start, a one-touch operated moonroof, 7-inch touchscreen Display Audio7with next-generation HondaLink and heated leather seats are among the available upgrades.

The Fit also features a long list of standard safety features, including Vehicle Stability AssistTM (VSA) with traction control, side curtain airbags with rollover sensor, Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist, and Honda’s nextgeneration Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. The Fit has received the highest available crash-safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) – a fivestar Overall Vehicle Score – and a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the IIHS. Standard driver-assistive features on all trims include a multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines and an expanded view driver’s mirror. The Honda LaneWatch system is standard on EX and above trims.

Although a Honda is a Honda wherever you see one, Filipinos flock to Carson Honda because of the friendly Filipino staff at the dealership and of course because of the service our kababayans provide.

One of them, Rohmer Manalese, has even earned the “Best in Customer Satisfaction,” an honor he keeps consistently, along with the three other Filipino sales staff in the persons of Ricky Agagas, Terzo Pallen and Christian Reyes, all of whom are veterans in the car sales industry.

“We have a great staff and this is a great dealership,” Carson Honda General Manager Krisztian Kratky said. “We have a friendly atmosphere.”

Carson Honda is located at 1435 E. 223rd Street, Carson, CA 90745. They can be reached toll free at 1-800-503-2321.

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Mitsubishi Motors continues its best sale ever streak year-over-year Best-ever sales month for Outlander Sport; Best-ever sales month for new Mirage Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) achieved its 16th consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases in June, reporting 7,963 units sold – an increase of 32.3 percent from June 2014.

Sales for the first half of the year are up 24.9% over a strong performance in 2014.

“The first half of last year was pretty incredible for Mitsubishi Motors,” said Don Swearingen, executive vice president of MMNA. “And this year our January through June sales are even stronger, up 24.9% for the year. We expect this pace to continue as the new 2016 Outlander starts to roll into dealerships.”

The Mitsubishi Outlander Sport compact crossover reached an all-time monthly high with May sales of 3,384 units, an increase of 20.0 percent from May 2014.

The highly fuel-efficient Mitsubishi Mirage 5-door sub-compact also completed a historic month with sales of 3,369 units, an increase of 98.2% over May 2014.

The seven-passenger Outlander crossover demonstrated continued consistent sales performance with 1,341 units sold – its best May sales since 2008.

“Mirage, Outlander Sport, and Outlander continue to lead the charge for the brand and, frankly, that comes as no surprise,” explains Don Swearingen, executive vice president of MMNA. “Each model brings to its segment the Mitsubishi value proposition and clearly that message is resonating with consumers. Later this summer we will be introducing the featured-loaded new 2016 Outlander and it will be priced to further add to our value story.”

Earlier, the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport crossover has been named by Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com as one of its “10 Most Affordable SUVs.” Known for a long list of features at an affordable price point, the Outlander Sport also received this same recognition in 2014.

In its assessment this year, Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com noted that the 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport “combines bold, sporty styling with an exceptional warranty that includes 10-year/100,000mile powertrain coverage.”

“The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport – the brand’s best-selling vehicle – offers distinctive styling like no other vehicle in its class,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President of MMNA. “Because of its extensive list of features, safety technologies and an industry-leading warranty, the Outlander Sport has established itself as an extraordinary value for new car shoppers.”

The 2015 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport,

Mitsubishi Outlander

an Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) “Top Safety Pick,” features seven air bags including driver’s side knee air bag, anti-lock braking system with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist, Hill Start Assist, Active Stability Control with Traction Control Logic, Tire Pressure Monitoring System and Mitsubishi Motors’ patented Reinforced Impact Safety Evolution (RISE) body/chassis construction technology that helps absorb and/or dissipate energy in the event of a collision to help protect the vehicle’s occupants.

Meanwhile, Mitsubishi Motors also announced that the new 2016 Outlander received a first place ranking on the Cars. com list of most affordable 3-row crossovers. The 2016 Outlander, which features an unprecedented number of engineering and design improvements, appeals to buyers who want value, quality and safety with standard three rows of seating. The 2016 Outlander has a lower starting MSRP than the 2015 model, despite all of the improvements that notably increase the level of refinement and overall driving experience.

“We designed the 2016 Outlander to be an unmatched value in its segment, so it’s no surprise to us that it leads the way on the Cars.com list of most affordable 3-row crossovers,” said Don Swearingen, MMNA Executive Vice President. “From its long list of features, to available advanced safety technologies and a new eye-catching design, the seven passenger Outlander is a leader in value and reliability.”

To determine affordability, Cars.com combines the cost to purchase each CUV (including destination fee), five years of fuel costs as well as each car’s residual value after five years. To qualify for the list, a vehicle must be equipped with basic features that most car shoppers expect, including automatic transmission, power driver’s seat, rearview camera, USB port and Bluetooth connectivity.

The 2016 Outlander SEL, which meets the above criteria, features a 2.4L engine paired with a new-generation CVT, leather seats, 18” alloy wheels, black roof rails, seven Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) air bags and more, and is backed by an industry-leading 10 year 100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.

For more information on the Outlander, please visit media.mitsubishimotors.com or better yet call our kababayans Richard Samaco, Cesar Macandili or Mark De Leon the dealership’s Filipino salespersons at Glendale Mitsubishi at (888) 465-7218.

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“Ang MIS SION Ko ay tulungan Kayo!”

Manuel Lava Internet/Fleet Manager

661-644-0944

WE SERVE ALL AAA, COSTCO, AARP, CREDIT UNION, SAM’S CLUB MEMBERS

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Offers subject to availability. Net cost based on current rebates. *Nissan Customer Cash in lieu of Special Financing. **Must finance through NMAC. *** Qualifications for the College Grad Program- Graduation within 6 months or past two years from an accredited United States two or four year university, college, graduate school or nursing school, students currently enrolled in graduate school are eligible, present employment or future employment beginning within 90 days of financing approval, sufficient income to cover normal living expenses and car payments,, valid auto insurance, and on approved credit *****Must have financed a vehicle thru NMAC and have an authorization code. ******All U.S. Military personnel (active and reserve)All advertised prices exclude government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge, any emission testing charge, and dealer add-ons or accessories. Vehicles subject to prior sale. Interest accrues from date of contract. NMAC financing may be required on some vehicles see dealer for details. All financing subject to credit approval. Factory rebate in lieu of special APR. Rebates are based on 91345 zip code. *Based on Versa Sales August 2014. Ad prices good thru 7/12/15 close of business.

San Fernando Mission Blvd

ulve

888-588-7635

11000 Sepulveda Blvd.

Mission Hills, CA 91345

Sep

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The All-New BMW 7 Series features groundbreaking carbon core passenger cell Woodcliff Lake, N.J. – Last month, BMW unveiled the all-new BMW 7 Series, the brand’s flagship in its sixth generation. The 2016 BMW 7 Series sets a new benchmark in lightweight design, driving dynamics, comfort, intelligent connectivity and intuitive operation. The extensive use of carbon-fiber-reinforced plastic (CFRP) in the structure of the passenger cell and the strategic application of lightweight design reduce weight and increase both the overall torsion strength and bending stiffness of the passenger cell.

The all-new BMW 7 Series will be introduced in the US as a 740i and a 750i xDrive model featuring BMWs newest and groundbreaking technologies such as Gesture Control, Wireless Charging and the standalone option of the Display Key. An Active Kidney Grille will also be available for the first time in the US. The all-new BMW 7 Series once again sets the standard for luxury performance, delivering the highest level of driving refinement in the premium class. The 2016 BMW 7 Series will arrive in the US showrooms in the fall of 2015. The MSRP for the BMW 740i will be $81,300 and the BMW 750i xDrive will be $97,400 (prices do not include Destination and Handling).

BMW’s flagship vehicle reflects the company’s dedication to pioneer with the development of groundbreaking technology while upholding the 7 Series precedent of comfort and driving dynamics.

First introduced to the U.S. market in 1978, the new BMW 7 Series will be in its sixth generation. Many features and technologies developed by BMW, introduced in previous generations of the 7 Series, set the precedent for the future. Pace-Setting Technologies such as Antilock

Braking System (ABS) first appeared in the 1978 model which also was the world’s first production car to feature an electronic engine management computer (Digital Motor Electronics - DME). Illustrating segment leadership, an on-board computer (OBC) and Electronic Cruise Control set the standard for luxurious long-distance travel. The second generation, incorporated groundbreaking technologies such as Automatic Stability Control, adaptive transmission control, anti-tapping windows with express up and down on all four door windows and moonroof in addition to the world’s first use of integrated body electronics with advanced diagnostic capabilities and Xenon Headlights (750iL). Technologies such as Dynamic Stability Control,

Head Protection System and on-board Navigation System with moving map, CAN Bus technology for body electronics (5 integrated control units) and the revolutionary side-impact Interlocking Door Anchoring System defined the third generation. For the first time in the US the V8 featured VALVETRONIC variable valve lift technology.

In its fourth generation, BMW introduced Active Roll Stabilization (ARS) on a sedan, MOST Bus technology for body electrical with 70+ control units on common busses and infinitely variable intake manifold. For the first time, the world also benefitted from adaptive brake lights and electromechanical parking brake and electronic adaptive headlights.

BMW continued with the introduction of pace-setting technologies in its fifth generation 7 Series which hit the U.S. market in 2009. Night Vision 2 with Pedestrian Detection, Integral Active Steering, Adaptive Headlights with Dynamic Headlamp Control system with sensors measuring speed, steering angle and yaw as well as “reverse flow” cylinder heads to facilitate better packaging and minimize turbo lag defined this generation. The BMW core principle of safe transportation was assured with features such as Blind Spot Detection and Lane Departure Warning system. Active Cruise Control with frontal Collision Warning System, Dynamic Damping Control and Driving Dynamic Control assured the 7 Series reputation of safe and efficient long-distance comfort.

The new 7 Series Innovative Design The 7 Series is the BMW’s flagship when it comes to innovation in design and technology. The design of the new BMW 7 Series aligns elegance of the exterior and interior with luxurious workmanship creating harmonious proportions for a distinct look and feel.

The cabin is framed by predominately horizontal surfaces and lines, presenting color and material compositions that create a relaxed ambiance.

The all-new BMW 7 Series will be offered in the US exclusively as a long wheelbase version, more than one inch longer than its predecessor. At 206.6 inches in length, 85.4 inches in width and 58.2 inches in height, the new 7 Series is the roomiest Sedan the brand has ever built and features class leading rear seat legroom.

A smoothly downward-sloping roofline, displaying familiar BMW proportions, headlined by a long hood, short overhangs, long wheelbase and set-back passenger compartment highlight a sporting elegance and powerful sense of dynamics.

With the clear structure and upright stance of its front-end, the all-new BMW 7 Series has a powerful presence. It is the brand’s first car to feature an Active Kidney Grille including visible air flap control. The air flap is only open when there is an increased cooling air requirement, otherwise remaining closed. This improves aerodynamics as well as giving the front end an even more eye-catching appearance due to the visibly increased number of bars in the large BMW kidney grille.

For the first time, the wrap-around side window frame uses a single-piece element, elegantly incorporating the Hofmeister kink. The Air Breather surround in the front side fender spawns a chrome trim strip which runs along the lower edge of the doors. Its horizontal form accentuates the car’s finely balanced appearance and low center of gravity. The exterior mirrors appear to grow organically out of the window frame. A slender stalk provides the sole connection between mirrors and car body. Generating a modern and elegant effect, this design also enhances the aerodynamics.

The direction of the double swage line extends into the upper contour of the body and the light strips of the rear lights. This creates a harmonious connection between the side sections and the rear end. Tail lights feature LED technology and the two L-shaped light units are connected by a chrome bar.

BMW needs no introduction. To own one or change your BMW, call our kababayans at Pacific BMW Eduardo Tiempo at 818-601-5667 or Ronald Rodillas at 323-683-9351. Pacific BMW is located at 800 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 91204.

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An all-electric Nissan Leaf

Is an electric car battery breakthrough on the horizon?

Sunday July 5 2015 (Relaxnews) – Demand for the current crop of plug-in electric cars may still be weak but Nissan, Renault and Volkswagen are all confident that a mass-market electric car is just around the corner.

This week Nissan added a new model to its range of Leaf electric cars. The Leaf Acenta+ Grade adds special 17-inch alloy wheels and a 6.6kW charger as standard, meaning that it can be recharged in just four hours. And these practicality features come on top of a telematics system, reversing camera and cruise control and speed limiting system.

The extra creature comforts will go some way to attracting new customers to the electric car market. However, the trickle of new customers won’t turn into a stampede until the Leaf’s range – 124 miles (200 km) – can be improved.

It’s an issue that the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s head, Carlos Ghosn is fully aware of. Speaking to The Guardian at the formula E championships on Wednesday, he said: “If there’s a price penalty, they just don’t buy. If there’s range anxiety, they just don’t buy.”

However, as demand for electric cars increases, their cost will come down.

And, as for driving range, Renault-Nissan is confident that within five to 10 years thanks to on-going research and development, range will be extended significantly

– three to four times greater than the current distances.

Nissan isn’t the only company confident that a better battery is really just around the corner. This week, during an interview with German publication Bild, Volkswagen boss Martin Winterkorn described the battery technology it is currently working on as a “quantum leap for the electric car.”

The battery in question is being developed in the US, in Silicon Valley and could prove the key to creating a practical, affordable plug-in electric car with mass market appeal. Winterkorn said that the battery was cheaper, smaller and more powerful meaning that “An electric Volkswagen that can travel 300km on electricity is in sight.”

There is no debating whether electric cars are cleaner than their gas-powered counterparts in terms of tailpipe emissions; however, a new study from the National Bureau of Economics, first detailed on Monday by CityLab, suggests that depending on how the electricity that recharges the battery is generated, eclectic cars could be generating more pollution than an internal combustion engine.

The research, conducted in the US, shows that in states that use coal fired power stations, charging an electric car is adding to the pollution and over a lifecycle of 150,000 miles could be less environmentally friendly than an equivalent size gasoline car.

Don’t run the risk of car theft and identity theft Saturday July 4 2015 (Relaxnews) – Vehicle thefts may be falling in the US and the UK, but the emergence of a new generation of smarter car has also seen with it the emergence of an equally smart car thief.

“The FBI reports in its 2013 Uniform Crime Report that a vehicle is stolen every 45.1 seconds in the United States, which amounts to more than $4.1 billion in lost assets each year,” said Patrick Clancy, Vice President of Law Enforcement, LoJack Corporation a company that develops anti-theft and tracking devices for vehicles.

“With only 54.8% of stolen vehicles being recovered, auto theft is still a serious problem and we are now dealing with a more advanced, sophisticated thief. These individuals are increasingly creative, connected and dangerous in their approaches to steal your valuable assets.”

Thieves are increasingly targeting the most expensive, and therefore most connected cars on the road. And when a ‘smart’ car is taken, it’s not just the owner’s personal mobility that is compromised.

“Although numbers show a decline in theft, the impact that today’s Connected Vehicle Thief has on the individuals and businesses that fall victim to them is much greater,” said Clancy.

Cars connect with our smartphones and therefore are an extension of our digital lives, meaning that as well as vehicle theft, drivers run the risk of identity theft, too. “In recent years, the traditional methods, techniques and mindset towards auto theft has evolved,” continues Clancy. “Today, our vehicles hold critical information such as our phone contacts, registration and insurance details, even the address and directions to our home.”

In October Jaguar Land Rover made headlines because thieves had found a way of replicating a Range Rover’s smart key and simply opening the car and driving away.

There have also been a number of scare stories in the media in recent months about hacking a car and taking over its controls. However, initial investigations into smart car hacking show that although it is possible on some models, it is too time consuming, complicated and costly to be worth the effort.

However, regardless of a car’s connectivity consumers can take simple steps to mitigate the risks. For instance don’t leave personal documents or paperwork relating to the car in the cabin. Likewise don’t leave a smartphone tablet or satnav system in the car when it’s parked.

And, for extra security, try to avoid on-street parking bays and plump for secure parking structures instead.

Connected cars might offer a greater appeal to car thieves, but that connectivity also means that they’re more likely to be located and returned again.

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Toyota reports nearly 210,000 sales in June Toyota Division is No. 1 retail brand in June; DCH Toyota of Torrance among the leaders in Southern California TORRANCE, Calif. (July 1, 2015) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported June 2015 sales of 209,912 units, an increase of 4.1 percent from June 2014 on a volume basis. With one more selling day in June 2015 than in June 2014, sales were down 0.1 percent on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis.

Toyota division posted June 2015 sales of 183,791 units, up 3.1 percent on a volume basis and down 1 percent on a DSR basis.

For the first half of the year, TMS reported sales of 1,231,440 units, up 5.6 percent versus the same period in 2014 on a DSR basis. With the same amount of selling days in the first half of 2015 compared to 2014, sales were up 5.6 percent on an unadjusted raw-volume basis.

Earlier, Cars.com has named two Toyota models as most American-Made.

The Toyota Camry and the Toyota Sienna have claimed the top two spots, respectively, in the annual Cars.

Kia Motors earns best-ever ranking in 2015 J.D. Power Initial Quality Study IRVINE, Calif., June 17, 2015 – With more units in operation in the U.S. than ever before, Kia Motors reached another historic milestone today when J.D. Power recognized the brand as the second-highest scoring nameplate industry-wide in its 2015 Initial Quality Study (IQS). Kia’s IQS score improved by 20 points over its previous best-ever performance in 2014, vaulting the growing automaker up four positions to second overall among 33 automotive brands and highest among all mass-market nameplates.

Kia’s ascension was powered by segment-leading performances from two of the company’s best-selling vehicles – Soul and Sorento – while the Rio, Optima, Cadenza, Sportage and Sedona models all ranked in the top three of their respective categories.

Kia’s U.S. sales have more than doubled over the last six years as the brand has made significant investments in the market and steadily climbed J.D. Power’s annual IQS rankings. After the Soul was ranked number one in the compact multi-purpose vehicle segment in 2012, Kia broke into the overall top 10 in 2013, with the Soul and Sportage (tie) taking top honors in their respective segments, and then rose to sixth in the industry in 2014. The company’s $1.1 billion manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia – produces the Sorento and Optima, and achieved its highest-ever quality ranking among plants in North/ South America in the 2015 study. Additionally, the Kwangju plant where the Soul is produced ranked number one for the Asia Pacific Region.

Now in its 29th year, the annual J.D. Power IQS analyzes responses from vehicle owners in 26 segments. If you want to find out why Kia is among the leading car brands of today, drop by Car Pros Kia of Carson at 21243 S Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90745 (telephone # 310-221-9131), or at Car Pros Kia Huntington Beach at 18835 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (714-613-1119) and last but won’t be the last, at Car Pros Kia Glendale at 400 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 91204 (818) 745-1400.

com American-Made Index. This marks Toyota’s return to the American-Made pinnacle for the first time in three years and the fifth time overall that Camry has been ranked number one on the index.

According to Cars.com, the “AmericanMade Index rates vehicles built and bought in the United States.

And speaking of markets or if you are in the market for a new car, which most likely you’re looking for a new Toyota, just call our kababayans at DCH Toyota of Torrance. DCH Toyota of Torrance’s proud Filipino Fleet is headed by Filipino Department Manager Loyd Aler, Phillip Rivera and Edgar Relova. DCH Toyota of Torrance is located at 2909 Pacific Coast Hwy Torrance, CA 90505. You can reach Loyd Aler or his fellow kababayans, Sales & Leasing Consultants Phillip Rivera and Edgar Relova at 1-888-311- 0102 for the best deals in town.

Weekend Balita readers Kuya Renato & Ate Regina Soriano are proud to show off their new vehicle that they purchased from DCH Toyota of Torrance. With them is our kababayan Filipino Sales Director Loyd Aler. Other than Loyd Aler, DCH Toyota has Phillip Rivera and Edgar Relova, who serve the huge Southbay Filipino- American community.

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