LOS ANGELES
Alex Gonzaga not in a hurry to find love See ALEX GONZAGA page 23
VOL. XXII, NO. 23
JULY 12 - 18, 2014
THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FILIPINO-AMERICANS
NY creates ID card for all, even illegal immigrants “Parents need to know this is an incredibly dangerous situation and it is unlikely that their children will be able to stay,” President Barack Obama said, referring to a flow of 57,000 unaccompanied minors from Central America who have crossed the southwestern US frontier since October in the search for a better life. Often they are smuggled across. Photo: US Border Patrol
Obama tells C. Americans not to send kids over border DALLAS, July 10, 2014 (AFP) – US President Barack Obama on Wednesday warned parents in Central America not to send their children alone on the perilous journey through Mexico to illegally cross the US border. Obama also urged Congress to stop playing politics and work with him to pass his request for $3.7 billion in emergency funding to deal with the building immigration crisis. “Parents need to know this is an incredibly dangerous situation and it is unlikely that their children will be able to stay,” Obama said, referring to a flow of 57,000 unaccompanied minors from Central America who have crossed the southwestern US frontier since October in the search for a better life. Often they are smuggled across.
“I’ve asked parents across Central America not to put their children in harm’s way in this fashion.” Obama was speaking in Dallas, after meeting Texas’s Republican Governor Rick Perry, local officials and faith leaders to discuss the border drama, which has developed into a toxic political showdown. He demanded that lawmakers quickly pass the emergency funding bill to tighten border surveillance and enforcement and to rush customs and legal resources to the area to speed up deportations of illegal immigrants, and to consider asylum cases. “Are folks more interested in politics, or are they more interested in solving the problem?” Obama asked. “If the preference is for politics, then it won’t be solved.” See OBAMA, page 8
NEW YORK, July 10, 2014 (AFP) – New York Mayor Bill de Blasio on Thursday signed a new law creating an ID card for anyone who wants it, including illegal immigrants, amid a wider debate about immigrant rights. De Blasio said it would help illegal immigrants – there are 500,000 in New York, he estimated – get better access to a range of services in the city such as opening a bank account or getting a lease on a property. “This is about normalizing and improving people’s lives,” the Democratic mayor said, describing New York as “a beacon of hope and inclusion.” People applying for the municipal ID card “will not be asked about their immigrant status,” he emphasized. The new card will be available starting January 2015 and will be free for the first year. To get it, applicants must furnish proof of their identity and their residency in New York. The city counts 8.4 million residents, more than a third of whom were born overseas, according to the US Census Bureau. Often in the United States, driver’s licenses are used as identity documents, but in New York, 46 percent of the residents are unlicensed, the mayor has said. The new card will also be useful for homeless people, those just getting out of prison, as well as for transsexuals who will be allowed to choose which sex is marked, de Blasio said.
However, some have emphasized the new card could be dangerous for those of questionable legal status. The New York branch of the ACLU, a civil rights group, said the new law would permit city authorities to keep for two years the documents used in the application – and to turn them over to police. Local and federal law enforcement agencies “can request these documents without having to show probable cause. And if they are requested, the city has no obligation to even notify the person so they might be able to defend their own privacy.” Despite the benefits for some, the group said, with these new cards “the city is inviting New Yorkers to gamble with the stakes as high as prosecution or even deportation.” The mayor announced his plan in February – a few weeks after he took office – to create the municipal ID cards. The city council voted to approve the plan on June 26. Municipal ID cards already exist in several big US cities, including Los Angeles, San Francisco and Washington. There are an estimated 11 million illegal immigrants in the United States. Efforts at the federal level, championed by President Barack Obama, to reform the immigration system – and give a chance for these undocumented residents to get legal papers – have been bogged down in Congress.
Abad quits, but Aquino turns him down
Chino Roque, the first Filipino astronaut, says he will bring a rosary and a Philippine flag with him when he flies to space in 2015. (Photo from Facebook page bearing Chino Roque’s name)
First Pinoy astronaut to bring rosary, PHL flag to outer space
MANILA, July 11 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III on Friday said he has rejected the resignation of Budget Secretary Florencio Abad. “I decided not to accept his resignation,” Aquino said at a budget presentation in Malacañang. Aquino said Abad, who is also a senior political adviser of the President, tendered his resignation on Thursday. The President, however, did not accept it because it would mean also accepting the notion that the administration’s disbursement acceleration program (DAP) was a mistake. “To accept his [Abad’s] resignation is to assign to him a wrong. I cannot accept the notion that doing right by our people is a wrong,” Aquino told Cabinet members.
Budget Secretary Butch Abad
Aquino again maintained that the DAP benefited Filipinos. “The notion in the current atmosphere is that DAP is bad for our people. Even our most vociferous critics grant that the DAP See ABAD QUITS, page 8
By Nimfa U. Rueda
LOS ANGELES – The first Filipino astronaut, Chino Roque, has said he would bring with him two items on a space flight scheduled next year: a rosary and the Philippine flag. A third item, if allowed, would be a family photo, said Roque, who was honored at a family reunion held at a church hall in Torrance over the weekend. “I am proud of my pamangkin,” said Carson Mayor Pro Tempore Elito Santarina, one of the more than 200 maternal relatives of Roque who attended the Maniquis See ASTRONAUT, page 8
Enrile refuses to enter plea on plunder case MANILA, July 11 (Mabuhay) – The Sandiganbayan Third Division entered a not guilty plea for Senator Juan Ponce Enrile after he refused to enter any plea during his arraignment on Friday in connection with the alleged P10-billion pork barrel scam. “I enter no plea. I would like my counsel to explain,” Enrile told the court. Lawyer Estelito Mendoza said his client decided not to enter any plea because of the court’s earlier denial of the motions they filed. “We respectfully submit that under these circumstances, the court has not acquired jurisdiction on the person of the accused,” he said. Mendoza on Friday asked the anti-graft court to let the prosecution provide details on the charges filed against his client, because he said the information submitted by the prosecution is lacking in details. See ENRILE PLEA, page 8
2
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Visit www.Balita.com
3
Gigi Reyes rushed to hospital, seeks transfer to Crame MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) – Lawyer Gigi Reyes, one of the accused in the multibillion-peso pork barrel scam, was rushed to a hospital in Taguig after spending her first night at Camp Bagong Diwa in Bicutan. Reyes was brought to Taguig Pateros District Hospital at around 1 a.m., just two hours after she was brought to the Bicutan jail. It was not immediately known why she was brought to the medical facility. Reyes is currently confined at the third floor of the hospital. She has also filed a motion for recon-
sideration before the Sandiganbayan Third Division, asking that she be transferred to Camp Crame. Reyes was brought to Camp Bagong Diwa Wednesday night after the Sandiganbayan denied her request to be transferred to the Philippine National Police Custodial Center at Camp Crame where her co-accused in the pork barrel scam plunder case are detained. She arrived at Camp Bagong Diwa at 11:15 p.m. where her fingerprints and mug shots were taken. She was also given a yellow t-shirt
PNoy cannot be forced to testify in Revilla case – Ateneo dean MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III cannot be forced to testify in the trial of Senator Ramon Revilla Jr. for plunder and multiple counts of graft in connection with the pork barrel scam, according to lawyer Antonio La Viña, dean of the Ateneo School of Government. La Viña said the President may opt to decline if summoned to the witness stand. “Hindi siya pwedeng pilitin. Ang ibig sabihin, kung gusto niya, pwede siyang pumunta, pero hindi siya pwedeng i-subpoena. Or kung i-subpoena nga siya, pwede siyang magsabi na hindi siya pwede,” he said. “Extension iyan ng criminal immunity – alam mo naman you cannot file a criminal suit against the President. You cannot also force the President to testify sa isang trial hearing,” La Viña explained. In a 43-page pre-trial brief that he filed Wednesday, Revilla listed Aquino III as one of the witnesses he wanted to testify in his trial. Revilla also listed other prominent government officials both past and present such as Interior Secretary Mar Roxas,
Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, Budget Secretary Florencio Abad, Ombudsman Conchita Carpio Morales, Commission on Audit chair Grace Pulido Tan and even former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. A pre-trial brief lists the documentary evidence and the witnesses to be presented by a party during trial. It also enumerates the issues to be resolved in the case. However, La Viña noted that Revilla would still need to justify his request to summon the President to the witness stand. “Ang susunod na hakbang diyan, sasabihin mo kung bakit mo pinatatawag ang witness, kasi hindi naman basta-basta magi-isyu ng subpoena,” he said. “Ang mangyayari, uupo sila sa isang pre-trial at pag-uusapan kung sino bang mga witnesses na dapat. So, kailangang ipaliwanag ng kampo ni Revilla kung bakit itong mga taong ito ay pinatatawag,” he added. He also stressed that even if the camp of Revilla makes a strong justification, the President may still opt to not heed the call to testify.
with the words “BJMP detainee” printed on the back. Police said Reyes will be detained temporarily in an isolation room, measuring 1.5 by 6 meters, which is good for four inmates. The lawyer will be sharing the cell with a pregnant inmate. Inspector Aris Villaester, BJMP spokesperson, said Reyes will be staying in the room for a week as part of standard operating procedure before she is moved to a regular cell with the other Camp Bagong Diwa inmates. “Rinequest niya lang po ay higaan lang.
Yung kumot tsaka unan. Katulad din ng ordinaryong kulungan, may rehas, may tamang higaan at sapat lang po ang area na yun para sa apat na tao,” he said. Villaester said only relatives, counsel and close friends will be allowed to visit Reyes but only after receiving clearance. Visiting hours at Camp Bagong Diwa are from Tuesday to Fridays, 1-5 pm; Saturdays to Sundays, 9 am-5 pm. Reyes is the former chief of staff of Senate Minority Leader Juan Ponce Enrile. Both are accused of pocketing millions of pesos in pork barrel kickbacks. (MNS)
Colmenares: I didn’t know I got DAP funds
MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) – Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares on Thursday said the Palace is trying to deflect some of the heat from the controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) by linking him to the issue. Colmenares, a vocal critic of the DAP funds, confirmed an Inquirer report that his office received P25 million for projects meant for various local government units. He, however, said he was not informed by the Palace at the onset that the funds were sourced from DAP. He said he recalled his endorsement for the projects in October last year after learning about the nature of the funds. “Hindi nila nilalagay ang word na DAP sa SARO (Special Allotment Release Orders). P25 million iyon… Pero nung lumabas na ang DAP, medyo nagduda na ako. So I wrote a letter to the Malacañang and the agency and told the agency I suspect na DAP ito, and I withdraw my endorsement,” Colmenares said. A SARO is a document from the Department of Budget and Management that paves the way for the release of lump sum funds. Colmenares said no public fund, either from DAP or not, passed through his hands. The Supreme Court earlier ruled as unconstitutional several acts under the DAP including the cross-border transfer of funds and the use of the funds for new projects not under the General Appropriations Act. The discretionary fund earlier hit the headlines when Senator Jinggoy Estrada bared that several senators received some P50 million to P100 million supposedly in exchange for voting to convict former Chief Justice Renato Corona. Budget Secretary Butch Abad has said the DAP funds were realigned savings meant to spur government spending. During its life span, DAP funded projects in many government offices including government’s investigative, security, and social services arms. Colmenares suspects the Palace is behind the report, which detailed his projects that were apparently funded by the DAP.
4
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
The real estate market is looking good! But you have credit card obligations‌ So you decided to buy a house a few years ago and the market turned. Now, your house is worth less than you owe to the bank, and you are one month behind! Worse still, you have a large amount of credit card debt, that is growing larger by the month on minimum payments and your income is barely enough to get you and your family through the coming month (or maybe even the week). for any form of debt relief and what these However, on the positive side, news benefits can do for you should be your reports suggest that home prices are first step in debt relief. turning around. You want to keep your What if your attorney recommends a home – so what are your options? bankruptcy – is that something to fear? Can you manage mortgage payments if No – because a bankruptcy is also the first you did not have to pay your credit cards? step to a better credit rating. Do you have a second mortgage Feeling a sense of guilt for filing a that could be stripped under current bankruptcy or a sense of shame seems to bankruptcy laws, and immediately give be related to bankruptcy but I do not see you a bump in home equity? What other why‌ options do you have? Is the IRS harassing Bankruptcy is a government enacted you as well? program designed to wipe out debts for Take the first step to ending sleepless people who meet certain criteria. That nights, and let me help you come up is it. If you do not make enough money with a plan to get you on top, and back to repay your debts and you do not have in control. Doing nothing about your any property that is unprotected, the debts and ignoring what is happening to government will wipe out your unsecured you may seem easier at first, but once the debt so that you can start over and reset foreclosure notices and law suits begin your credit. to come in the mail, the thought of wage If you have any moral qualms about garnishments and liens on your house or filing your case, remember, if you are even your car, can really make you and already in a situation where you need your spouse depressed. to file for bankruptcy, there is no shame Being proactive about taking care in taking advantage of the benefit that of your debts should begin with a free a bankruptcy can provide. What is the consultation with consumer debt attorney alternative? Paul M. Allen. Get the scoop on what Contact my office at (818) 334-5445 if your options are from a professional. you would like me to help you plan your Determining whether or not you qualify way out of debt.
Family law default judgments require full financial disclosure It had been years, living in America that is. You came here without papers and haven’t looked back since. The spouse was left in the Philippines. Gosh, you don’t even know what he/ she looks like anymore. The old feelings are gone. You have worked two, sometimes three jobs to save up what you have, bought your first home, a nice car and a decent pension. Now
is the time you say to yourself to take care of your divorce. Is it as easy as well as final sets of financial disclosures. filling out a form, getting it signed and it’s A knowledgeable attorney can assist you to all over. Well, in California and most juris- navigate these requirements and fully and dictions, it is not. Family law procedures competently advise you every step of the require something else in the spirit of due way. Our office is ready, willing and able process and fairness. After all, the Family to represent you on these matters. Please court is a court not only of law, but also , do not hesitate to contact us at your earliest as a court of equity. convenience. Financial disclosures or sworn stateAttorney Miguel Inumerable is a graduments as to your assets, income, retirement, ate of UCLA Law School and has more than debts are all required. You cannot get your 25 years experience serving the Filipino divorce without them. Severe penalties community. He is bilingual in Tagalog and may also attach for failure to properly English. His areas of practice includes disclose your financial details. Often, Family Law (divorce, custody, support, the disclosure statements themselves may restraining orders) Bankruptcy, Business require certain back-up documentation. Litigation, Immigration and Deportation, There are requirements for preliminary as Probate and Criminal and Regulatory Law.
Billionaire trio unite for US immigration reform WASHINGTON, July 11, 2014 (AFP) – Three of the world’s richest men – Bill Gates, Warren Buffett and Sheldon Adelson—put aside their political differences to unite in scathing condemnation of US lawmakers’ failure to implement immigration reform. In an opinion column in Friday’s New York Times, the trio, who have a net worth of about $160 billion between them, said that a Congress paralyzed by partisanship is failing US citizens by refusing to make the compromises necessary to overhaul a system that Democrats, Republicans and President Barack Obama all say is broken. “Americans deserve better than this,� the men wrote, adding that despite their political differences they would be able to draft a bill acceptable to each of them. They took particular aim at the Republican-led House of Representatives, which has stonewalled several attempts to craft legislation. The House bill’s differences, the trio argued, could be hammered out with members of the Senate, whose landmark immigration bill passed with bipartisan support one year ago but has languished on Capitol Hill. “Whatever the precise provisions of a law, it’s time for the House to draft and pass a bill that reflects both our country’s humanity and its self-interest,� the billionaires said.
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Miss Philippines USA 2014 all set to present spectacular show with 26 beautiful Fil-Am women GLENDALE, CA – The most prestigious Filipino-American pageant is back with KTLA anchor Cher Calvin and Fox News Tony Cabrera as faces of Miss Philippines USA and hosts of the pageant three years in a row. It will be held on July 27, 2014 at the San Gabriel Mission Playhouse in San Gabriel, California at 6 p.m. Pageant Producer and Creative Director Lou Razon promises another one-of-a –kind event that promotes businesses, fashion , beauty, arts and culture and sets the standard in pageantry production. With the success of the show last year, Lou Razon and the entire Miss Philippines USA organization continue to believe that this 2014 pageant will set another milestone in the event production industry. The selection of 26 beautiful FilipinoAmerican women began six months ago, with 11 teens and 15 misses who were chosen to vie for the titles of Miss Young Philippines USA and Miss Philippines USA and other prestigious awards. The official candidates are as follows: (Miss Young Philippines USA ) Suzanne Perez, Janelle Henzon, Lexus Lagumbay, Mariah Fulinara, Dana Bondoc, Dominique Mihaljevic, Katherine Matheny, Helena Marte, Mikaella Reamico, Aislinn Sebastian, Jessica Duhay. (Miss Philippines USA) Kayla Cabral , Victoria Obiniana, Hannah Marte, Jorgette Chuang, Leah Marie Vergara, Olive Regis, Rochelle Fajardo, Crystal Gungon, Samantha Antonio, Monica Morales, Jaylee Orpiano, Czarmaine Landicho, Irani Tinio, Daianne Malinis and Katrina Saluta. This year , Miss Philippines USA organization wants to thank the following sponsors for their generous support: Cerritos and South Coast Mitsubishi, West Magnolia Medical Center, Image Spa MD, Refresh Aesthetics and Lifestyle, Dermskin, Michael Deliguin Photography,Tesoro’s Diamonds, Rated Chic, Wet Swimwear,L ife Clothing, MJR Creative Strategies, Robert Ryan Photography, Max’s of Ma-
Miss Philippines USA 2013 Jasmine Sabio from Huntsville, Alabama
nila, Leelin Bakery, Lay Bare, White Rabbit Food Truck, Stardancers Dance Studio, Fantv, Joel Hornilla Photography, Rex Vincent Photography, V Entertainment, IM Productions and Discover Burbank. Miss Philippines USA ‘s mission is to develop the finest ambassadors of goodwill for the Fil-Am community, to raise awareness and become an advocate of education through charities and fundraising, and to promote fashion , beauty, arts , and the Filipino culture. Through ABS-CBN Foundation and Bantay Bata, Miss Philippines USA organization, for the past 3 years, has donated funds to build schools and improve the lives of the children in impoverished areas in the Philippines. Visit our site www.missphilusa.com or like us on Facebook: Miss Philippines USA to see more exciting news about our beautiful candidates and latest updates. For tickets to the July 27th competition, go to www.missphilippinesusatickets.eventbee. com or call 818 242 2088.
Australian jihadist supporter arrested in PHL By Mynardo Macaraig
MANILA, July 11, 2014 (AFP) – An Australian convert to Islam who used the Internet to urge people to join “jihad” in Iraq and Syria was arrested in the Philippines on Friday, local police said. Robert Edward Cerantonio, 29, who also goes by the name Musa Cerantonio, was detained in the central Philippine city of Cebu and will be deported to Australia, said Superintendent Conrado Capa, the region’s deputy police chief. “In one broadcast on his website, he called on brother Muslims to join the war in Iraq and Syria,” said Capa. “We cannot say with certainty that he had any contact with local Muslim groups,” Capa added. The Philippines has a large Muslim minority in the southern region of Mindanao, a hotbed for a decades-old Muslim insurgency and where Islamic militants linked to Al-Qaeda also operate. But Cebu’s police commander, Chief Superintendent Prudencio Banas, said there was “no evidence linking him to any terror act.” Cerantonio was arrested at the request of the Australian government and will be deported because Canberra has cancelled his passport, making him an illegal alien, Banas added. A media officer at the Australian embassy declined to comment when asked about the arrest. Television footage aired by the ABSCBN network showed a bearded Caucasian man in a white robe being ushered out of an apartment by officers wearing helmets and flak jackets. The station later showed him being escorted by police through Manila’s airport,
wearing a hooded jacket. Police said they had been monitoring the activities of the Melbourne native since February when he arrived in Cebu, the country’s largest metropolis outside Manila. He lived with a Philippine woman and moved around Cebu until his arrest at a one-room apartment near the airport, Capa told AFP in a telephone interview from Cebu. “For the most part, he keeps to himself in his rooms, in hotels or apartments,” Capa said, adding that the woman bought food and other supplies for him. The 32-year-old woman was wanted by police over an unrelated fraud case and was also arrested Friday, Capa added. A police intelligence officer involved in the operation said Cerantonio had also visited Mindanao, though there was no indication he had tried to recruit Filipinos to fight alongside Islamic State militants who have seized large swathes of territory in eastern Syria and in neighboring Iraq. “Sometimes he mentions the Philippine government (on his website), but does not call for violence” against it, the officer added, adding that the Australian has “no overt following” in the Philippines. A report in The Australian newspaper last month described Cerantonio as a preacher and “one of (the Islamic State’s) most influential propagandists”, and that Australian police were planning to move against him. The newspaper said Cerantonio called for the assassination of Western leaders in a Facebook post in December, and that a study had found one in four foreign fighters in Syria followed his Twitter account.
Visit www.Balita.com
5
Grace-Chiz tandem in 2016?
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – Two more candidates could be throwing their hats in the ring for the 2016 elections. Senator Grace Poe on Wednesday said she is open to running alongside her good friend, Senator Francis Escudero, in the next election. Poe, daughter of the late actor and presidential bet Fernando Poe Jnr, remained mum on who will run for the presidency. She added that even Escudero has yet to finalize his plans. She also said though she welcomes opinions that she should run for higher office, she feels she still has a lot to prove as a senator. “Di ba mas bagay kami magkakampi kesa magkalaban? Siempre whatever his decision, di ba? He helped me a lot also to win as Senator Serge (Osmeña). So definitely this is something we need to talk about. He might say mas senior ako sa iyo so that would be a consideration. Anyway, I don’t really know wala pa naman daw siya plano,” she said. Poe declined to say if she is willing to be the vice-presidential candidate of presidential contender Jejomar Binay. She clarified she has not been contacted by the camp of Binay, who is with the United Nationalist Alliance. “We haven’t spoken...My mom says: ‘Just prepare. Know everything you need to know about the government, not for anything, not because you are running for President but because that’s your responsibility and just in case fate puts you there you won’t be caught in the middle of knowing nothing,” she said. A recent Pulse Asia survey earlier ranked Poe second among the top “preferred presidential” candidates for 2016. The survey, a copy of which was obtained by ABS-CBN News, was conducted last March 19 to 26, 2014 among 1,200 respondents all over the country. The respondents were shown a prepared list of names and asked: “Of the people in this list, whom would you vote for if the 2016 presidential elections were held today and they were candidates?” Topping the survey was Vice President Jejomar Binay, who has long declared his plan to run in 2016, with 40 percent or 4 out of 10 respondents saying they would vote for him.
California International University EARN YOUR
WE OFFER
• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management • Master’s Degree in International Business • ESL & TOEFL
• Work study programs • Dorm housing for Students
CONTACT US: Hanapin si
Jomar Caluza Admissions
• Full-tuition scholarship • Academic Immigration Counseling
3130 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90010 Telephone: (213) 381-3710 • (213) 381-3719 Fax: (213) 381-6990
www.ciula.edu INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS WELCOME
Canadian Immigration
Pangarap Ninyo. Our Goal.
Canada ngayon has open immigration policies at hindi mahirap mag-migrate. You dream for a better tomorrow.
You hear Canada calling. Tutulungan namin kayo to make it happen.
Your Dream is Our Goal.
“We deal with ALL Immigration Matters”
Do not wait. Call us Today. Affordable & Guaranteed Fees with Offices World Wide.
HEAD OFFICES:
Attorney of the Stars
North American Centre (at Finch Subway Station) 8 Finch Ave. West, Toronto, Ontario, Canada M2N 6L1 Fax: 416. 733. 3742
Atty. Henry Moyal
Barrister & Solicitor, Notary Public
The only
an Canwayderiserving the
La ity Certified o commun
Filipinince 1986. s
TOLL FREE: 1. 888 .8472 .078 • Local Tel: 416. 733. 3193
www.moyal.com
Email: canada@moyal.com
6
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
17 Fil-Ams vie for Binibining Pilipinas USA 2014 title; prelims July 13 Valley Center for the Arts, in Lawndale, CA. These young women have undergone a strict screening process to determine whether they met the minimum requirements to be selected as an Official Candidate. Once selected, each candidate met an important individual requirement: to select a tourism destination in the Philippines to promote. This is one of the pageant’s main objectives: supporting the Philippine Seventeen Filipina-Americans will compete for the Binibining Department of TourPilipinas USA 2014 title. The grand winner will be chosen on ism’s “It’s More Fun coronation night, Saturday, July 19, at the Centinela Valley Center in the Philippines� for the Arts, in Lawndale, CA. promotional camAfter months of intense preparation, 17 paign. Each candidate has adopted a of the most beautiful Filipina-Americans tourism destination to promote, often with from around the country are set to compete a familial connection. This event will for the coveted crown of Binibining Pili- benefit the Apl.de.Ap Foundation’s many pinas USA 2014. worthwhile projects in the Philippines. “Binibining Pilipinas USA - Your Des- Apl.de.ap is a member of the multipletiny Awaits!� will stage its Preliminary Grammy-award winning Black Eyed Peas, Competition this Sunday, July 13, at The and is scheduled to appear in person and Banquet Hall, 3255 Wilshire Blvd., Suite serve as a judge in the competition. Other 100, Los Angeles, CA 90010. Scheduled special guests include former Miss Unievents include the Swimsuit Competition, verse finalists Venus Raj (2010), and Janine Talent Competition, and Voting for Binib- Tugonon (2012), both of whom represented ining Photogenic, the latter being voted on the Philippines to great acclaim. Coroby members of the press and photographic nation Night will be hosted by actor and organizations. Kevin Kleinberg and former MTV Asia The grand winner will be decided in VJ Belinda Panelo. Tickets are available front of a packed house on coronation for calling Insider Productions at 213-788night, Saturday, July 19, at the Centinela 3323, or online at: www.eventbee.com.
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Solons warn Kiko: Be wary of the ‘rice mafia’ MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) – A group of congressmen on Thursday expressed support for a top-to-bottom revamp of the National Food Authority (NFA) as they urged presidential assistant for food security and agricultural modernization Francisco “Kiko� Pangilinan to reject efforts by some unscrupulous traders to create an artificial rice shortage and force the government to open the rice importation program to the private sector. Samar Rep. Mel Senen Sarmiento said that the alleged rice shortage is clearly a hatchet job designed to undermine the efforts of Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala to end the reign of “rice mafia� which have been trying to take control of the supply and demand of rice. “The plunder case and the allegations of overpricing on our rice imports are all obviously designed for one thing and that is to malign the government’s rice importation program. By doing so, they are hoping that government would liberalize its restrictions on the rice importations by the private sector,� Sarmiento said. Sarmiento, who is also SecretaryGeneral of the administration’s Liberal Party, said that Pangilinan and newlyappointed NFA administrator Arthur Juan should be wary and vigilant on the existence of a “rice mafia� that is behind the effort to discredit Alcala and the government’s effort to protect local farmers by imposing tight restrictions on rice importation. Iloilo Rep. Jerry Trenas agreed with Sarmiento’s observation as he noted that the raid conducted by government authorities which revealed that NFA rice are being repacked and passed on as commercial rice is a clear and unmistak-
able sign that there is collusion among profiteering rice traders and some officials and employees of the NFA. Trenas said that obviously, the NFA rice are being bought in bulk by rice traders not only to re-sell them for unconscionable profit but also create an artificial shortage of NFA rice in the market. “This is like hitting two birds with one stone. They make a lot of profit by passing on the NFA rice as commercial rice and at the same time make it appear that the NFA can no longer keep up with the demand, hence the need to involve the private sector in rice importation,� the Visayan solon noted. Davao City Rep. Karlo Alexei Nograles also supported Pangilinan’s move to conduct a top-to-bottom revamp at the NFA because “there are obvious signs that some officials and employees of the agency are compromised and are working in cahoots with the so-called “rice mafia.� He said that Pangilinan should also review the NFA’s list of licensed NFA retailers, or those who have been granted with NFA accreditation as retailers because many of them are mere fronts of the group who are trying to undermine Alcala and the government’s rice importation program. “Presidential Assistant Pangilinan is doing the right thing in his move to reorganize the NFA. The people who are behind this campaign to sabotage and manipulate the government’s rice importation program and discredit Secretary Alcala obviously have a very wellentrenched network within the NFA. He should destroy this rice mafia and stand firm in protecting the interest of our local rice farmers,� Nograles pointed out. (MNS)
LAWYERS HELPING EMPLOYEES, CONSUMERS AND POLICYHOLDERS
LAW OFFICES OF
•
Unpaid Overtime, Missed Breaks, and Other Wage Claims
•
Serious Injuries, Accidents, and Wrongful Death
•
Insurance Claims (Auto, Homeowners, Life, Annuities, Health)
•
Unfair Business Practices and Consumer Class Actions
•
Discrimination Due to Disability or Pregnancy
C. JOE SAYAS, JR.
Trial Attorney for 25 years; Class Counsel for thousands of employees seeking lawful wages
500 N. Brand Blvd., Suite 980 Glendale, CA 91203
Consistent record of significant million-dollar recoveries
Tel: (818) 291-0088
Recognized for excellence by the Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Los Angeles Daily Journal and L.A. Magazine’s Super Lawyers
www.joesayaslaw.com Kasangga sa Husgado. Mapagkakatiwalaan Mo!
! !"
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
PHL Catholic medics urged not to issue birth control MANILA, July 10, 2014 (AFP) – The Catholic Church in the Philippines is encouraging members who are medical workers to refuse to implement a newlyapproved birth control law, an official said Thursday. It is the latest move by the powerful church hierarchy in the largely Catholic Philippines against a law that took effect this year, compelling the state for the first time to provide free condoms and contraceptive pills. “Pastoral guidance” issued by bishops this week explains how government health workers can legally refuse to dish out contraceptives on ethical or religious grounds, Marvin Mejia, executive secretary of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, told AFP. “Obviously, Catholics should not, on moral grounds, seek employment in the very government agencies that promote artificial contraception,” reads the guidance, obtained by AFP. “But if circumstances compelled them to be employed in such agencies... said Catholics should be aware that they cannot be forced to promote, distribute or dispense artificial contraceptives against
their religious or moral conviction.” The Church is an influential force in the Philippines, which counts around 80 percent of its 100 million-strong population as Catholics. Abortion and divorce remain banned in the nation. The deeply controversial birth control law was finally approved by the Supreme Court in April, ending a 15-year campaign by the Church to stop statesanctioned family planning coming into force. It also mandates that sex education be taught in schools. However, the law allows for moral or religious objections. Conscientious objectors are required to immediately refer patients to another service willing to supply information or birth control, but the church disputes this. Father Mejia said bishops are set to organize seminars in their dioceses to inform government health workers of the law’s provisions. “The Church recognizes that it is already a law... but it’s very important for people to know their rights,” Mejia added. There was no immediate comment from the health ministry.
Visit www.Balita.com
7
PHL Catholic bishops OK marijuana – but only for terminally ill MANILA, July 7, 2014 (AFP) – Senior church leaders in the conservative Philippines said Monday they support the use of marijuana to ease the pain of the terminally ill, but not for recreational reasons. The leaders outlined their stance after a bill was filed in the legislature which would legalize the medical use of marijuana. Tough laws at present call for life imprisonment for possession of just 500 grams (17.6 ounces) of the drug. The head of the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, Archbishop Socrates Villegas, said the church was still firm in opposing its use for recreational purposes. “We are not promoting the use of marijuana. We are only referring to terminallyill patients who are in severe pain,” he told a press conference called to announce the Pope’s visit to the country next January. “The best solution is to give it to those to manage their pain as they approach the end of their lives.” Villegas said such use of marijuana would fall under church rules and may even be approved by government without passing a law. Marijuana use, usually for medical purposes, has been legalized in many communities and even in some countries but remains illegal in the Philippines. However despite his more liberal stance on issues such as homosexuality, Pope Francis in June spoke out strongly against legalization of drugs including marijuana for recreational use. “The problem of drug use is not solved with drugs,” the pope told a drug enforcement conference.
PHL priest in unwed mum outburst faces sanctions MANILA, July 8, 2014 (AFP) – A Philippine priest faces possible sanctions after his scathing condemnation of an unwed mother in church ignited a social media firestorm, his religious superiors said Tuesday. Father Romeo Obach angrily scolded a young mother in church on Sunday as she held her newborn baby in her arms to be baptized, apparently unaware his comments were being videotaped. “You should be ashamed of yourself for bringing your child to be baptized when you don’t even have a husband,” the priest is shown telling the visibly shaken young woman in a clip uploaded on YouTube which has since gone viral. “You are shameless. You slept with a man who is not even your husband,” he alleged. Turning to her relatives and friends, the priest asked: “Is she being a good Christian... will you spread your legs for a man you barely know?” Both the priest and his religious order later issued separate public apologies and the order promised an investigation. The Philippines is a mainly Catholic nation. “This priest is a hypocrite! You are not preaching the gospel of Christ!” one comment on YouTube read. “Hey priest, you should follow the example of your pope,” another read, referring to the less judgmental attitude begun by Pope Francis. “As a religious community we do not condone such an unacceptable act,” the order said in its statement, adding it would reach out to the family of the young woman, a parishioner in the central city of Cebu. The Redemptorists’ media officer in Cebu, Father Alfonso Suico, told AFP Obach would likely be required to “take time for prayer and reflection and will not be allowed to celebrate sacraments publicly for a duration to be determined by our superiors”. Obach said in a separate statement:
Balita The leading source of News and Information for the Filipino American Community
“The words I said and the rude attitude that I showed before I performed the rite of baptism...was indeed unbecoming.” “I am deeply sorry to the mother of the child, her relatives, the sponsors and the witnesses of the incident.” The outburst took place a day after the head of the Philippines’ bishops called on the local clergy to listen more and condemn less on issues of abortion, divorce and contraception, in the latest sign of a liberal shift in the powerful institution. Archbishop Socrates Villegas said a change of tone would be a fitting welcome for the pope, who is visiting the country next year. Church leaders exert vast influence in the conservative Philippines, Asia’s Catholic bastion and the only state apart from the Vatican that still outlaws both divorce and terminations.
Law Offices of
NEWS!!!
Gali Koren, PLC
Immigration rights for same sex married couples. Contact us for details.
CONTACT US FOR A FREE* INITIAL CONSULTATION WITH ATTY. KOREN Attorney Gali Koren is the firm's founder and managing attorney. She received her Juris Doctor Degree, Magna C u m L a u d e , f r o m We s t e r n State University. She obtained her LLM in International Law from the University of San Diego Law School, majoring in Immigration Law. Ms. Koren is a member of the State Bar of California and is authorized to represent clients on immigration matters in all 50 states.
We Handle ALL Immigration Matters: • REMOVAL/DEPORTATION DEFENSE • FAMILY-BASED IMMIGRATION • BUSINESS AND INVESTOR VISA Atty. Gali Koren • EMPLOYMENT-BASED Licensed Attorney • HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS • PERM (Approval Guaranteed or we'll Refile for FREE*) Atty. Carlo Borja • NATURALIZATION/CITIZENSHIP Licensed Attorney • DACA/Deferred Action Graduate of Ateneo de Manila University. Member of State Bar of California and Philippine Bar.
Our experienced attorneys & staff will help you navigate the complex immigration system and offer you personalized attention on your specific case. All of us understand your goals because we all come from immigrant backgrounds. Our mission is to provide effective and aggressive representation of your interests in all immigration matters in an efficient manner.
WE WILL WORK HARD FOR YOU TO FULFILL YOUR IMMIGRATION GOALS!
1-714-300-0606 • 1-888-838-3818 i n f o @ k o r e n i m m i g r a t i o n . c o m • w w w. k o r e n i m m i g r a t i o n . c o m
1475 S. State College Blvd., Suite 110, Anaheim, CA 92806 (corner of Cerritos, between Ball and Katella roads)
15260 Ventura Blvd., Suite 1200 Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 (City National Bank building)
All legal services are provided by and under the supervision of active members of the State Bar of California. *Some restrictions apply. Please call for details. **Employer sponsorship not guaranteed & based on qualified education, training & experience in specific professions
8
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
OBAMA From page 1
Texas visit The president’s request for more money has met a stiff response from Republicans in Congress, who say that his plan is more geared to dealing with illegal minors already in the country rather than stopping the flow of new illegal entries. Perry had demanded Obama visit the border and initially declined to greet the president as he stepped off Air Force One in Texas on a visit that includes several political fundraiser events. But after a hurried exchange of letters between Texas and Washington, the two men agreed to hold a roundtable on the pressing immigration problem. Perry even rode with Obama aboard his Marine One helicopter to the talks in Dallas. Perry, a failed 2012 Republican presidential election candidate, spelled out the Republican approach to the border crisis, which is based on claims that Obama has failed to protect the US frontier. “There is a humanitarian crisis unfolding that has been created by bad public policy, in particular the failure to secure the border,” Perry said in a statement. “Securing the border is attainable, and the president needs to commit the resources
ABAD QUITS From page 1
has benefited our people,” the President said. Abad has been linked to the controversy involving the DAP, some parts of which the Supreme Court declared as unconstitutional. He is facing a plunder complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman for the controversial spending mechanism. In a ruling last week, the high court unanimously declared certain acts under the government’s DAP as unconstitutional, including the declaration of unobligated allotments as savings, the cross-border transfers of savings of the executive to other branches of government, and the funding of projects not stated in the national budget. Malacañang has repeatedly said that the DAP was undertaken in good faith to boost the country’s economic performance. Before the start of the budget presentation, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Secretary Teresita Deles prayed for the entire Cabinet “at a time that is more
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
necessary to get this done.” Republicans see securing the border as sending more men, including National Guard reserve troops, to protect it. Obama says the problem is not that people are evading US security forces, but insufficient infrastructure to process them when they arrive. ‘No photo-ops’ Obama said the meeting with Perry was useful, adding that he had pushed the governor to press Republicans in Congress to pass the supplemental funding request. The president also responded to fierce Republican pressure for him to visit the border himself – saying that his administration had sent senior officials on multiple visits to the region in recent days. “This isn’t theater. This is a problem. I’m not interested in photo-ops,” Obama said. The president also rebuffed suggestions that his use of executive powers to shield from deportation young people brought to the United States as children by illegal immigrant parents had encouraged the flow of children across the border. “We have countries that are pretty close to us in which the life chances of children are just far, far worse than they are here,” Obama said.
challenging than most.” Deles likewise defended fellow Cabinet members who were caught in the middle of the DAP controversy. “Legal cases have been filed against our fellow Cabinet members ascribing bad faith and more, where there is none,” she continued. Aside from the DAP, she also mentioned the crafting of the Bangsomoro Basic Law, the recovery of ‘Yolanda’-affected areas, and the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program Extension with Reforms as the administration’s current challenges. She noted that such challenges “have so sorely tested our souls.” She then prayed for guidance and strength for the entire Cabinet and for the Chief Executive. “Make us politic enough to becoming as serpents and gentle as doves. Sharpen our skills and keep fresh our vision,” she said. She also asked for God’s grace and humility as the administration continues its mandate for “tuwid na daan”. (MNS)
ASTRONAUT From page 1
(also spelled Maniquiz) clan reunion. Santarina handed Roque two plaques of recognition – one from the City of Carson and another from the clan, whose members trace their roots in Bulacan and Nueva Ecija. The 23-year-old crossfit trainer is one of 22 people from around the world who will fly in space – and the first Filipino to do so – aboard a suborbital Lynx space plane built by the U.S. company XCOR Aerospace. The psychology graduate of De La Salle University won the lone slot for the Philippines after a series of grueling physical and mental challenges at the AXE Apollo Space Academy (AASA), a global contest that promised to send 22 winners to the edge of space and back aboard the private spaceship. More than 100 candidates from 60 countries took part in the Florida camp, competing for the 22 slots on the flight. Roque said he plans to visit the XCOR space port in the Mojave Desert, a possible launch site. Mojave in California is the American epicenter of private spacecraft development and XCOR Aerospace is based in Mojave. At the family reunion, Roque autographed copies of his photo with legendary astronaut and AASA Space Camp judging committee chairman Buzz Aldrin who selected Roque and the 21 other aspiring astronauts. Aldrin became the second person ever to walk on the moon during NASA’s 1969 Apollo 11 mission. First Filipino Astronaut Awarded July 5 Roque who was recently named as the first Filipino scheduled to go to space in 2015 was honored July 5 by Carson Mayor
ENRILE PLEA From page 1
During the hearing on Enrile’s motion for bill of particulars he sought clarifications on the charge sheet for plunder. Also, Mendoza said the prosecution does not have proof that Enrile received the P172 million in kickbacks from his pork barrel fund coursed through bogus nongovernment organizations owned by trader and suspected mastermind Janet Lim-Napoles.
Balita
Protempore Elito Santarina with a plaque of recognition at the family reunion of the astronaut. Roque who represented the Philippines in the global search of the Axe Apollo Space Academy (AASA) said that he never expected to win the competition. Mayor Protempore Santarina pointed out that Roque inspires the youth to pursue their dreams and that Filipinos can achieve anything with perseverance. Roque revealed that his strong training in cross fit prepared him to meet the challenges of the competition. The De La Salle graduate of psychology is a coach of cross fit Manila. When asked about his feelings when he met American astronaut Buzz Aldrin who walked on the moon, Roque said, “It was timeless. The feeling of talking to him and having a photo with him is forever immortalized.” Aldrin announced Roque as one of those who will participate in the space mission. The 22-year old expressed his gratitude and added, “ I am very honored to be here today. I am very grateful and happy for all these blessings.” Chino Roque who is a former captain of La Salle’s soccer team will join 23 other participants from 60 countries around the world. “ This is a great opportunity to give hope.. to focus on funding for future Filipino scientists…that anything is possible and that there is no harm in taking risks in life. One must never give up,” Roque explained. Chino Roque replaced Philippine Air Force pilot Mario Mendoza Jr., who gave up his slot for military duty. According to Roque, there were over 28,000 who participated at the start of the contest. Then, roughly over four thousand took the IQ and then 400 underwent the physical challenges at the Bonifacio Global City. (With reports from Fe Koons) “The prosecution cannot be allowed to win on a bluff,” he said. But the court rejected the plea for clarifications as well as Enrile’s subsequent motion for reconsideration. Enrile’s arraignment for plunder pushed through. However, his arraignment for graft charges has been reset for next Friday after the prosecution moved to amend the information on the case. On the other hand, Napoles, the alleged mastermind of the scam, entered a not guilty plea.
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Cebu Pacific joins shark fin ban MANILA, July 9, 2014 (AFP) – The Philippines’ largest airline Cebu Pacific said Wednesday it has ceased carrying shark fins, becoming the latest carrier to impose a ban as part of global conservation efforts. “We are banning shark fin carriage effective immediately as we learned that unsustainable shark fishing and our carriage of shark fin is not aligned with (our) position on sustainable development,” the airline said in a statement.
The carrier, controlled by the Gokongwei family, an ethnic Chinese clan with interests in food processing, real estate and banking, also it would no longer serve shark fin soup in its corporate events. Cebu Pacific, the country’s largest airline in terms of number of passengers carried, becomes the second Filipino carrier to ban shark fin shipments following a similar decision by rival Philippine Airlines in April.
Several airlines have announced they would no longer transport shark fins in recent years, following a global campaign to stop the consumption of the controversial foodstuff. The fins are traditionally used in expensive Chinese soups and served at important events. Conservationists warn that the demand for shark fins has led to overfishing, with many shark species now considered endangered.
Aquino highlights contribution of tourism industry to national economy MANILA, July 10 (Mabuhay) – The tourism sector has made significant contributions to the national economy, giving the government a boost to continue its reform measures to make the gains more sustainable, President Benigno S. Aquino III said on Wednesday. In his message during the grand launch of the Marco Polo Ortigas Manila, the President said that the progress the country has made in the tourism sector, together with the integral reforms in every other sector, has made a massive impact on the economy. “Last year, despite the natural and manmade disasters that struck our nation, we were still one of the fastest growing economies in Asia, registering a GDP growth of 7.2 percent,” he said. “We have steadily won the confidence of the international community.” Also last year, he said, the most renowned credit rating agencies in the world
upgraded the country’s credit ratings in a short span of time. The launch of Marco Polo Ortigas Manila serves as proof of the newfound confidence that companies have in the country’s prospects, he noted. He further said that the tourism industry’s potential is huge. Over the past four years, the number of tourists – both domestically and internationally – has increased dramatically. For instance, he said, in 2011, the country recorded 37.5 million domestic travelers, which surpassed the government’s original target, not for 2011, but for 2016. “I can emphasize: we surpassed our original target for 2016 five years ahead of time,” he said, adding that because of this development, the government has set the new target of 56.1 million domestic tourists for 2016. The number of international tourists has steadily increased as well, he said, going
from an average of about 3 million a year to 4.68 million last 2013. “And we remain committed to pursuing our 2016 goal of 10 million international tourists,” the President added. Among the factors that boosted the Philippine tourism sector were the liberalization of the aviation industry as well as the successful launch of the global tourism campaign of the government, President Aquino said. The P2.3-billion 313-room five-star hotel, which began construction in October 2010, was developed by president and chief executive officer of XinTian Ti Development Corporation, Samuel Po, in partnership with Marco Polo Hotels. Marco Polo Hotels is a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Wharf (Holdings) Ltd., a Hong Kong-listed company with core business interests in property and investments in communications and container-terminal operations.(MNS)
Visit www.Balita.com
9
Aquino appoints new judges in CL MANILA, July 11 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III has appointed 23 new judges in the Central Luzon provinces of Bulacan, Tarlac, Nueva Ecija, Aurora, Zambales, Pampanga and Bataan. Executive Secretary Paquito Ochoa Jr. informed Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno about the appointment through a one-page transmittal letter. “I am pleased to transmit herewith the appointment letters of the following signed by His Excellency, President Benigno S. Aquino III,” read the letter signed by Ochoa. The new appointees in the Regional Trial Courts (RTC) are: • Judge Gorgonio B. Elarmo of RTC Branch 77, Malolos, Bulacan; • Judge Marion Jacqueline Pallera Poblete of RTC Branch 3, Balanga, Bataan; • Judge Amelita Cruz Corpuz of RTC Branch 96, Dinalupihan, Bataan; • Judge Isidra A. Arganosa-Maniego of RTC Branch 7, Malolos City, Bulacan; • Judge Efren B. Tienzo of RTC Branch 13, Malolos City, Bulacan; • Judge Frazierwin V. Viterbo of RTC Branch 33, Guimba, Nueva Ecija. The second batch of appointees in Nueva Ecija are: • Judge Roberto Ricardo O. Kanapi of Municipal Trila Court in Cities (MTCC) Branch 2, San Jose City; • Judge Rachelle De Guzman Ernie of MTCC, Zaragosa; • Judge Emmanuel S.Paynor of Municipal Trial Court (MTC), San Antonio; Judge Jamila del Rosario Cruz-Sarga of MTC, Rizal; Judge Kristine Aquino Ferrer of MTC, Lupao; Judge Michael Benedick V. Aleta of MTC Pantabangan; Judge Ian Ramoso of MTC Talugtog.
10
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Hollywood dreams for Cebu-born Charito Mertz By Myrna Aquitania
280K
$
Total Prizes
every day PLAY FREE! ENTER DAILY:
DRAWINGS:
12AM-9:30PM 10:00PM KIOSKS
Visit Guest Services for more details.
COME IN TODAY... WIN A FORTUNE Fortune Pai Gow. Seven cards, two hands, a joker, and a bonus that could make you – a fortune.
COME IN HUNGRY – LEAVE TOTALLY SATISFIED All-you-can-eat dishes from around the globe. 7 days a week
YOU ARE HERE | Visit sanmanuel.com | 777 San Manuel Blvd, Highland, CA 92346 Must be 21 to enter casino | Please gamble responsibly | 1-800-GAMBLER
Model, producer, actress Charito Mertz was born in Cebu to parents Nolito and Marcela Jarina. Named Maria Charito Genilla Jarina, she was a world traveller early on, being raised in exotic places such as Australia and Nauru where her civil engineer Dad and her mom who’s in banking found their professional calling, until finally settling here in the United States. While in her teens, she moved to New York to pursue modelling, where she found national print commercial advertising jobs for large corporations such as Target and Bank of America. Modeling didn’t stop her as she is a total entertainer who can dance and sing as well. Her true passion in acting prompted her to move to follow her dreams in Hollywood where she continues to accumulate television, film and production credits in writing, producing and directing. Following are some of her professional entertainment credits: • 2008 – flower girl in a TV/movie series called “Mom’s Funniest Moments” • 2009 – “General Hospital;” “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody;” “Days of Our Lives;” – all TV series; • 2010 – “Next Stop for Charlie;” TV series shot in the Philippines; • 2012 – “Citybird;” • 2011 – “Conan” movie cast as Korean bridesmaid; • 2011 – model “Coke” advertising commercial;
Charito Mertz
• 2011 – cast as Amy in a video called “ The Weed Shows Love Letters to Mary Jane;” • 2011 – “Exhausted” - producer/writer/ director/actor - cast as “Mrs. Ting;” • 2011 – “FCU Fast Checker Unit” TV series; • 2012 – “Essence of Chicken” TV series; • 2014 – cast as Candi in the movie “Reckless;” • 2014 – cast as Karla in the movie “Death Factory.” Charito’s credits above, will undoubtedly bring her the “hollywood” stardom she’s hoping for! For a tenacious Pinay like her, there is no denying that she will make her dreams come true!
New purple yam flavored items sweeping across SoCal With Filipino items gaining popularity in the LA market, ube stands out as one of the latest most popular dessert flavors for Angelenos this summer LOS ANGELES, july 2014 – With its sweet delicious taste, rich purple color, and superfood benefits, purple yam (ube) has become one of the most popular dessert flavors to sweep Los Angeles this year. Thanks to Buttermllk Inc.’s delicious ube baking mix more restaurants and bakeries have started to make ube one of their mainstay flavors on their menus. Following the launch of their purple yam (ube) crumb cake donut earlier this year, DK’s Donuts, a Santa-Monica based bakery, has expanded their menu since to include ube glazed donuts, muffins, wownuts (their version of a waffle-donut) and “DK’s Double Decker O-Nuts,” the first bakery on the West Coast to serve the popular dessert hybrid craze “cronuts.” Their latest ube addition is their bacon ube donut- a delicious ube donut layered with bacon bits and coated with a secret frosting. Featured on a number of “best of LA” lists DK’s treats are enjoyed throughout the city by loyal customers and even celebrities such as Ryan Seacrest, singer Jordin Sparks, and actress Brenda Song. This latest addition to their menu is bound to be a guaranteed hit. DK’s Donuts is located at 1614 Santa Monica Blvd. Santa Monica, CA 90404. Although known for their delicious craft beer cupcakes, Noey Cakes, a LosAngeles based artisanal bakery service, is the latest bakery to partner with Buttermilk Inc. and serve ube flavored items featuring their baking mix. Customers cannot get enough of the moist and chewy ube cookies available on the Noey Cakes menu for catering and delivery. With the heat rising, Noey Cakes has recently dabbled in making toasted coconut ube sandwiches, with buttercream filling rolled in toasted coconut, for an unbeatable crunchy texture
that is made-to-order fresh. Noey Cakes are available to order online at their website, www.noeycakes.com, as well as at Library Ale House, Santa Monica’s premier craft beer destination. Library Ale House is located at 2911 Main St. Santa Monica, CA 90405. For ube lovers in Orange County, Classics Flowers and Confections in Cypress has started serving an ube cupcake with macapuno filling and vanilla bean buttercream frosting. Serving as both a bakery and a beautiful flower shop, Classics has all of your party needs in one stop. In addition to ube cupcakes, Classics also serves sandwiches, salads, tea, and other sweet confections. Classics Flowers and Confections is located at 10069 Valley View St. Cypress, CA 90630. With all of these delicious new items available, Angelenos can enjoy ube desserts in any form they desire from donuts to cookies to “O-Nuts.” With Buttermilk’s Ube Baking Mix available online at http:// www.opensky.com/buttermilktruck, customers can even get creative and concoct their own recipes with this versatile mix. So go out today and enjoy any or all of these amazing desserts today or try your hand at your own recipes! The leading source of News and Information for the Filipino American Community
NOW AVAILABLE! Balita Digital Copy visit our website!
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Visit www.Balita.com
11
Combination of Chapters 7, 13 and loan modification gives clients extreme financial makeover 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
When an obese person weighing 500 lbs. implements steps to lose 300 lbs. and actually succeeds, people take note and are happy for that person. The reality shows call this extreme makeover. Real estate TV shows call the new look of the property after improvements are made on it as extreme makeover. The kitchen cabinets are torn down and new ones are installed. Walls are torn down. Carpets are removed and marble tiles are installed. The bathroom fixtures are replaced with new ones. Even the landscaping is changed. So, we all know what extreme makeover means. Extreme makeovers not only happen with human bodies and houses. Extreme makeovers can also happen to a debtor’s financial landscape. Take my client’s example: Client is a registered nurse who has gross annual income of $100,000. Husband recently lost his job as a warehouse person. Since husband used to gross $30,000 yearly, the household income is reduced by 24%. Husband’s unemployment benefits have terminated. Their credit card debt is $110,000, which they have not paid for 8 months. They own a house worth $400,000. Their monthly mortgage is $3,100, excluding real estate tax, with a balance of $500,000. They have not paid the house for over a year and owe arrears of $44,000. They have a 2nd trust deed of $120,000 payable at $1,000 monthly which they have also not paid for more than a year. Client filed a Chapter 13 with another lawyer in 2013 with a plan payment of $1,500 for 60 months. Since she could not afford the plan payment, her case was dismissed on month 3. The first mortgage files a notice of default for the $44,000 with intent to foreclose in 90 days. After she explained what had happened which apparently started out with following the instructions of a loan modification person to stop paying her mortgage so she could qualify for LM which was eventually denied, I explained the future steps that we could take to straighten out her financial situation and save her house. In a span of 14 months everything we planned out happened with facts that I would have to say is miraculous. Since we were both Christians, I said let’s pray for the best, and she said “Amen.� First we filed a Chapter 7. It stopped the foreclosure and discharged all of her credit card debt of $110,000. The first mortgage holder could have, but did not file a motion for relief to ask court permission to continue foreclosure while the Chapter 7 was pending. For 5 months, secured creditor sat and did nothing. I will call this the first miracle because if creditor asked for court permission to continue foreclosure then we would have to convert 7 to 13, which we did not want. The Chapter 7 discharge was entered on month 6. On month 7, we filed their Chapter 13 case to handle the default of $44,000 of the first mortgage and to cancel the 2nd trust deed of $120,000. After we filed the motion to avoid the 2nd trust deed, the second miracle happened. Two weeks after the motion was filed, client received a letter from the bank saying that they had FORGIVEN the 2nd trust deed, that client owes bank nothing anymore, and attached to the letter a deed of reconveyance for the 2nd trust deed. The reconveyance is absolute proof that the debt has been forgiven and the mortgage released and satisfied in full! So, the only problem left was the first mortgage default of $44,000. The plan payment of $800 monthly for 60 months
took care of this. However, it was still a burden for client to pay the current portion of $3,100 plus $800 for the plan payment. That’s almost $4,000 for the house payment alone! We file for loan modification. Creditor is Nationstar. Next to One West Bank, this bank is probably one of the hardest banks to talk to. After 4 months, Nationstar reduces her mortgage payment by $800 to $2,300. This is the third miracle for her! The LM puts her back in current status with the mortgage; therefore, the Chapter 13 case is no longer needed to protect her house. With God’s help, clients’ finances indeed went through an EXTREME MAKEOVER. “You are my lamp, O Lord; the LORD turns my darkness into light.� 2-Samuel 22:29. Lawrence Bautista Yang is a graduate
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, Bldg A-1 Suite 1125, Alhambra, CA 91803.
12
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Immigration confirms departure of suspect in fatal hazing of Benilde student MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – The Bureau of Immigration has confirmed that one of the suspects in the fatal hazing of De La Salle-College of St. Benilde student Guillo Cesar Servando has already left the country. In a statement released Wednesday, Immigration Commissioner Siegfred Mison said Kevin John Navoa left for the United States last July 1, three days after Servando, 18, was found dead inside a condominium unit after allegedly undergoing initiation rites of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity. Mison, however, assured that the other suspects are still in the Philippines. He added that the departure of Navoa could have not been prevented because no hold-departure order was issued in connection with Servando’s death. “Without such court issued hold departure order, we have no legal position to prevent anyone from leaving the country although we maintain the information in our data bank,” Mison said, noting that no hold order has been issued against the other suspects.
However, he said Navao may still be deported back to the Philippines if the Department of Foreign Affairs cancels his passport. Navao is among the members of the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity allegedly involved in the supposed hazing of several neophytes. Servando, who was taking up hotel and restaurant management, succumbed to the injuries he suffered after the initiation rites on June 28. He was cremated July 2. Aside from Servando, three fellow neophytes, one of them a minor, underwent initiation rites and were hospitalized. Earlier in the day, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said a suspect in the fatal hazing of Servando has been placed under provisional inclusion in the Witness Protection Program. The suspect surrendered to De Lima Tuesday night. De Lima said the suspect admitted to being present during the initiation rites, but denied touching any of the neophytes. “Mayroon siyang ibang role other than the beating, other than pagpapalo or pagsusuntok doon sa mga neophyte,” she said. (MNS)
JV wants rice smuggling, price fixing classified as economic sabotage MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito has filed a bill seeking to define rice smuggling and price manipulation as acts of economic sabotage punishable by up to life imprisonment. “It shall be the policy of the State to curb all forms of economic sabotage that are inimical to the country’s economic growth and development. The State therefore, declares that any form of rice smuggling is prejudicial to national interest and derails economic growth and development,” Section 2 of Ejercito’s Senate Bill 2082 said. Under the bill, “any person regardless of nationality or citizenship” who smuggles a minimum of P1 million worth of rice “shall be guilty of economic sabotage” and faces imprisonment of eight years and one day to life, a fine “twice the fair value of the smuggled articles” and the “aggre-
gate amount of the taxes, duties and other charges avoided,” and confiscation of the contraband. In the case of companies, the president, chief operating officer or manager will be held liable and the business permits and licenses revoked. Smugglers’ brokers will also be charged as principals. “When the offender is a government official or employee acting in, connivance with private individuals or entities or other government officials or employees, he shall be imposed the same penalty as the principal offender” and disqualified from holding any public office, whether by election or appointment, the bill adds. Although the bill was filed January 22, it has yet to be acted on by the committees on ways means and on agriculture and food, to which it was referred. (MNS)
Detained Jinggoy files bill to hike pay for night workers MANILA, July 11 (Mabuhay) – Despite being detained for plunder and graft charges over the pork barrel scam, Senator Jose “Jinggoy” Estrada has filed a bill seeking to increase the differential pay for nightshift workers from 10 percent to 15 percent. Estrada said Senate Bill No. 2298, or the “Night Workers Additional Compensation Act,” is one of six bills he authored and submitted Monday. The senator is detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center in Came Crame, along with Senator Ramon “Bong”
Revilla Jr. Another senator facing the same charges, minority leader Juan Ponce Enrile, is confined at the PNP General Hospital, also in Crame. SB 2298 seeks to amend Article 86 of the Labor Code, which currently provides: “Every employee shall be paid a night shift differential of not less than ten percent (10%) of his regular wage for each hour of work performed between ten o’clock in the evening and six o’clock in the morning.” Aside from increasing the night differential rate, the bill would also adjust the window from between 8 p.m. to 4 a.m.
Miriam: With new cancer pill, chances of recovery from cancer high MANILA, July 11 (Mabuhay) – With the new cancer pill she is now taking, Sen. Miriam Santiago on Friday expressed confidence her chances of recovery are high. In a post on her Facebook page, Santiago also thanked the public for their “messages of support and encouragement.” “After about six weeks of the cancer pill, chances are high that I shall be as good as new! So see you!” she said. Last July 2, Santiago announced in a news conference at the Senate that she has been diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer. “I have cancer of the left lung, which makes it difficult for me to breathe. I think you have noticed that for the past years,
I’ve always had difficulty. I’ve always had shortness of breath,” she said. But she said her cancer was not metastatic, likening her medication to “chemotherapy (that) has been reduced to a tablet.” In Friday’s post, Santiago said she is “now on a course of the new cancer pill, which is a smaller version of chemotherapy.” The main difference with traditional chemotherapy is that the pill does not produce chemotherapy’s deadly side effects, she said. “So I’m lucky, especially with the kind thoughts and moral support of my fans and supporters,” she added. (MNS)
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
OFWs urged leave Afghanistan MANILA, July 8, 2014 (AFP) – The Philippines on Tuesday urged 4,000 workers in Afghanistan to leave the country amid an election stand-off that has raised fears of instability and ethnic unrest. “The Department of Foreign Affairs has issued Alert Level 3 (voluntary repatriation phase) for Afghanistan due to the heightened tensions in that country following the conduct of the presidential elections last June 14,” it said in a statement. “With this announcement, Filipinos in Afghanistan are strongly encouraged to volunteer to return to the Philippines.” The election stand-off has sparked concern that protests could spiral into ethnic violence and even lead to a return to the fighting between warlords that ravaged Afghanistan during the 1992-1996 civil war. On Tuesday, presidential candidate
Abdullah Abdullah claimed victory, blaming fraud for putting him behind rival Ashraf Ghani in preliminary results. The Philippines has an existing travel ban to the war-torn nation, but the government acknowledges this has failed to stop Filipino civilians going there, often by way of third countries, for relatively high-paying jobs inside US military bases. An estimated 4,000 Filipinos are now working for US contractors in Afghanistan, foreign department spokesman Charles Jose told AFP. The Philippines does not maintain an embassy in Kabul, with its diplomatic representation in that country under the Filipino mission in Pakistan, he added. About 10 million Filipinos live or work abroad, a tenth of the population, to escape widespread poverty and scant job opportunities at home.
MERS unlikely to spread in Asia: WHO expert MANILA, July 10, 2014 (AFP) – Asian countries should keep their guard against the deadly Middle East respiratory virus, although it is unlikely to spread to the region, a World Health Organization expert said Thursday. The Middle East respiratory syndrome (MERS) appears to be less infectious than originally thought even though it has already killed 287 people, said Mark Jacobs, WHO’s director for communicable diseases in the Western Pacific. The relatives of those infected have not been showing any signs of catching it, he added. His comments come after the Philippines last week urged its large Muslim minority to reconsider plans to join the annual Hajj pilgrimage, which takes place in Saudi Arabia, until the threat from the virus has dissipated. But Jacobs said the virus posed little regional threat. “A spread in our part of the world is
small,” Jacobs told reporters. “If the virus stays unchanged, then I think that what we have been seeing is what we will keep seeing.” The WHO said 15 countries have reported MERS cases, with the virus widely circulating in the Arabian peninsula. Outside the Middle East, both the Philippines and neighbor Malaysia have both reported cases of patients who apparently caught the virus after travelling there. These people had not infected others in their countries, according to a WHO report. “We haven’t seen big outbreaks in a community or anything like that to suggest that it’s easy for some in the general community to be infected, (but) obviously we are keeping a close eye on that and hope that would not be the case,” Jacobs said. While there was always a chance of the virus spreading in health care facilities treating infected patients, “the risk to almost everyone in the world is extremely low”.
Visit www.Balita.com
Pope to visit PHL disaster victims
MANILA, July 7, 2014 (AFP) – Pope Francis is to visit the Philippines, Asia’s bastion of the Catholic faith, in January 2015 to comfort victims of disasters including Super Typhoon Haiyan, local church leaders said Monday. Specific details of the trip were not released, but Manila’s Archbishop Luis Tagle said the pope viewed Asia as crucial in spreading the faith. Tagle said the pontiff had told him during a recent meeting at the Vatican that “Asia is important for evangelization”. “The Christian population of Asia may be numerically small but it is significant,” he quoted the pope as saying. The planned visit comes as the Philippines struggles to recover from a series of disasters in 2013 that claimed thousands of lives. In November, Super Typhoon Haiyan – the most powerful storm to make landfall in history – left about 8,000 dead and millions homeless, devastating communities across the central Philippines. A month earlier, a 7.1-magnitude earthquake destroyed many historic churches and killed more than 200 people, also in the central region. “Our compassionate shepherd comes to show his deep concern for our people who have gone through devastating calamities,” said Socrates Villegas, head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines. “Pope Francis comes to revive our drooping spirit and to lead us to greener pastures,” he told reporters. The visit would be the fourth by a pope to the Philippines, where more than 80 percent of the 100 million-strong population are Catholics. Tagle said a delegation from the Vatican had visited Manila and Tacloban to check on logistics for the papal visit. Further details will be released in August. The bishops said there were security, infrastructure and logistical concerns to be addressed, while the health of the 77-year-old pope is also an issue. Pope Francis was forced to pull out of a visit in Rome late last month, with his spokesman citing “the intense pace” of the pontiff’s schedule by way of an explanation. Francis, who became leader of the world’s Catholics after the unprecedented retirement of his predecessor Benedict XVI last year, will make his first visit to Asia as pope when he travels to South Korea next month.
GET OVER
130
E
Save $10/mo. for 24 months on Advanced Receiver Service (reg. $25/mo.) with Auto Bill Pay, valid email address and Paperless Billing. Requires selection of a Genie HD DVR.°
M O ING K UT N AS O AB PI M LI M FI GRA O PR
Only DIRECTV gives you 2 YEARS of savings with a FREE Genie™ WHOLE-HOME HD DVR upgrade.
! ACT NCOTWNOW!
A * $ * $ 9mo9. 9mo9.*
2424
9999 *
29 29
$$
MONTH
MONTH
FOR 12 MONTHS
FOR 12 MONTHS
CHANNELS LOCAL CHANNELS INCLUDED in over 99% of the U.S.
SELECT™ Package All programming subject to change at any time.
ALL DIRECTV OFFERS REQUIRE 24-MONTH AGREEMENT**
Ask me how to Bundle and save. CALL TODAY!
Roger - (818) 731-2095 731 2095 Joel - (702) 324-3307
13
PINNACLE COMMUNICATIONS 14536 Roscoe Blvd Suite 209 Panorama City, CA 91402
Offers valid through 7/23/14. Credit card required (except in MA & PA). New approved customers only (lease required). $19.95 Handling & Delivery fee may apply. Applicable use tax adjustment may apply on the retail value of the installation. Programming, pricing and offers are subject to change and may vary in certain markets. Some offers may not be available through all channels and in select areas. *BILL CREDIT/PROGRAMMING OFFER: IF BY THE END OF PROMOTIONAL PRICE PERIOD(S) CUSTOMER DOES NOT CONTACT DIRECTV TO CHANGE SERVICE THEN ALL SERVICES WILL AUTOMATICALLY CONTINUE AT THE THEN-PREVAILING RATES. LIMIT ONE PROGRAMMING OFFER PER ACCOUNT. Featured package/service names and current prices: SELECT $49.99/mo.; Advanced Receiver fee $25/mo. In certain markets, a Regional Sports fee of up to $3.63/mo. will be assessed with CHOICE Package or above and MAS ULTRA Package or above. Prices include the following instant bill credits for 12 months: $25 for SELECT Package. °$10 CREDIT OFFER: To receive the $10 bill credit for 24 months on your Advanced Receiver fee (required for Genie HD DVR or HD DVR lease), customer must, at point of sale: provide a valid email address and activate and maintain the SELECT Package or above, ÓPTIMO MÁS Package, or above or any qualifying international service bundle which shall include the PREFERRED CHOICE Package, Auto Bill Pay and Paperless Billing. Account must be in “good standing” as determined by DIRECTV in its sole discretion to remain eligible for all offers. **24-MONTH AGREEMENT: EARLY CANCELLATION WILL RESULT IN A FEE OF $20/MONTH FOR EACH REMAINING MONTH. Must maintain 24 consecutive months of any DIRECTV base programming package ($29.99/mo. or above) or any qualifying international service bundle. Advanced Receiver-DVR fee ($10/mo.) required for DVR lease. Advanced Receiver-HD fee ($10/mo.) required for HD Receiver lease. Advanced Receiver fee ($25/mo.) required for Genie HD DVR, HD DVR and TiVo HD DVR from DIRECTV lease. TiVo service fee ($5/mo.) required for TiVo HD DVR from DIRECTV lease. If you have 2 Receivers and/or one Receiver and a Genie Mini Client /Enabled TV/Device, the fee is $6/mo. For the 3rd and each additional Receiver and/or Genie Mini Client/Enabled TV/Device on your account, you are charged an additional fee of $6/mo. per Receiver, Genie Mini Client and/or Enabled TV/Device. NON-ACTIVATION CHARGE OF $150 PER RECEIVER MAY APPLY. ALL EQUIPMENT (EXCLUDING GENIEGO DEVICE) IS LEASED AND MUST BE RETURNED TO DIRECTV UPON CANCELLATION, OR UNRETURNED EQUIPMENT FEES APPLY. VISIT directv.com/legal OR CALL 1-800-DIRECTV FOR DETAILS. GENIE HD DVR UPGRADE OFFER: Includes instant rebates on one Genie HD DVR and up to 3 Genie Minis with activation of the SELECT Package or above; ÓPTIMO MÁS Package or above; or any qualifying international service bundle, which shall include the PREFERRED CHOICE programming package. A $99 fee applies for Wireless Genie Mini (model C41W) upgrade. Whole-Home HD DVR functionality requires a Genie HD DVR connected to the primary television and a Genie Mini, H25 HD Receiver(s) or an RVU-capable TV/Device in each additional room. Limit of three remote viewings per Genie HD DVR at a time. Visit directv.com/genie for complete details. INSTALLATION: Standard professional installation in up to four rooms only. Custom installation extra. To access DIRECTV HD programming, HD equipment required. Number of HD channels based on package selection. Eligibility for Local channels based on service address. Not all networks available in all markets. Programming, pricing, terms and conditions subject to change at any time. Pricing residential. Taxes not included. Receipt of DIRECTV programming subject to DIRECTV Customer Agreement; copy provided at directv.com/legal and in order confirmation. ©2014 DIRECTV. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo, SELECT, CHOICE and GENIE are trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners.
14
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Are undocumented workers entitled to back wages if fired due to disability discrimination? California Supreme Court answers Early this year, we related the plight of an undocumented worker who was terminated by his employer because of his disability, and whose fate rested on the hands of the California Supreme Court: Vicente Salas was a seasonal worker for Sierra Chemical. Seasonal workers are laid off when production is low and rehired the following year when production picks up. In 2006, Salas injured question: Can an undocumented worker his back and applied for worker’s compen- recover back pay for being fired due to sation. Salas wanted to return to work but disability discrimination? Two weeks ago, the Supreme Court his supervisor told him he can’t go back to work until he was a hundred percent well. ruled that California law protects all workSalas did not return to work. Salas sued ers “regardless of immigration status.” the employer for disability discrimination. This means that even if Salas was an unDuring the litigation, the employer documented immigrant, he had the same discovered that Salas had used a Social rights and remedies as legal residents. The Security number that did not belong to him Court stated that Salas should be allowed when he applied for the job. The employer to recover his lost pay up to the time it asked the court to dismiss the case saying was discovered that he may have been an Salas did not have a claim since Sierra unauthorized undocumented worker (the would not have hired him had it known “pre-discovery” period). Although federal immigration law that he used a fake Social Security card. Sierra also said the unclean hands doc- prohibits the use of false documents to trine barred Salas from making any claim get a job, it does not prohibit employers because of this fraud. Salas countered that from paying, or employees from receiving, Sierra knowingly employed undocumented wages earned during employment wrongfully obtained by false documents, so long workers. The case reached the California Su- as the employer does not know of the preme Court, which had to answer this employee’s unauthorized status. Also, al-
REAL ESTATE LOANS SHORT SALE NEGOTIATOR
Guaranteed Rates & Fees! KEN GO
• Purchase or Refinance - Best Rates Offer • FHA Loans 3.5% Down Only • Help Raise Credit Score - 3 days guaranteed! Licensed by the Dept. of Real • Help Clean Credit After BK - FREE! Estate. APR not calculated. Call for details. Rates subject • Help Explain Loan Modification Process to change without prior notice. LIC. DRE-NMLS # 238636
25 Years Servicing Our Community
FREE PRE-QUALIFICATION FREE CREDIT REPORT ADVISE ON LOAN MODIFICATION WE NEGOTIATE WITH LENDER SHORT SALE EXPERT
Call Now For A Free No Obligation Consultation Toll Free: (888) 822-5363
• Cell: (562) 508-7048
1st INNOVATIVE FINANCE GROUP 1011 W. Whittier Blvd., Suite A, La Habra, CA 90631
lowing recovery for such lost wages would discourage employers from exploiting a black market for illegal labor, considering that the undocumented worker still needed to be paid lawful wages. Lastly, the employee’s use of a fake Social Security information to get the job does not bar him from making a claim of discrimination and retaliation. He may still pursue these claims. The employer’s discovery that its employee was undocumented cannot be a defense to a wrongful termination claim. Allowing the employer this defense would be contrary to the underlying policies that protect employees
against discrimination and retaliation. [C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is trial attorney who has obtained several million dollar recoveries for his clients against insurance companies and employers. He has been selected as a Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, featured in the cover of Los Angeles Daily Journal’s Verdicts and Settlements, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum. He is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center Washington, D.C. and the University of the Philippines. Visit his website at www.joesayaslaw.com or contact his office at (818) 291-0088 for a no-cost inquiry.]
NY court orders Iran hand $1.75-b to US victims NEW YORK, July 9, 2014 (AFP) – A US appeals court in New York on Wednesday ordered $1.75 billion in Iranian funds be handed to families of Americans killed in the 1983 attack on a barracks in Beirut. The decision from three judges upheld a ruling from US federal judge Katherine Forrest in 2013 that the money, currently held in New York by Citibank, be handed over to the plaintiffs. The money would be a partial payment of the $2.65 billion award a US judge ordered Iran to pay to the families in 2007. The 1983 bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut killed 241 American personnel and was deemed by the United States to have been carried out by Leba-
non’s Iranian-backed Hezbollah group. A French barracks was bombed on the same day, killing 58 French paratroopers. France also blamed Hezbollah and Iran. Wednesday’s ruling was the latest in a string of US court decisions that have ordered Iranian cash payments to American families as compensation for the 1983 bombing. The American families went to court in this case in 2010 after finding out that the money was sitting in Citibank, linked through an intermediary Italian bank to the Central Bank of Iran. The Iranian central bank appealed the 2013 decision and can also appeal again, going right up to the US Supreme Court.
Microsoft chief tells workers changes are coming SAN FRANCISCO, July 10, 2014 (AFP) – Microsoft chief Satya Nadella on Thursday called on workers to rise to the challenges of a fast-changing technology world and ready themselves for changes at the company. In a lengthy email sent to workers less than two weeks ahead of Microsoft releasing its quarterly earnings report, Nadella mixed encouraging words with a vow to shake-up the company and its culture. “Tired traditions will be questioned,” Nadella said in the email, a copy of which was shared with AFP. “Our priorities will be adjusted.” From how the company is organized to job responsibilities and hires, changes should be expected, according to Nadella. He again stressed a vision of adapting
Microsoft to a “mobile-first, cloud-first world” and said that “nothing was off the table” when it came to achieving that goal. The Redmond, Washington-based company also foresees mergers and acquisitions. “If you want to thrive at Microsoft and make a world impact, you and your team must add numerous more changes to this list that you will be enthusiastic about driving,” Nadella said in the email. Microsoft will remain true to Xbox video game consoles as well as Surface tablets and Windows-powered smartphones that have had less success in the market, according to the company chief. “The combination of many devices and cloud services used for generating and consuming data creates a unique opportunity for us,” Nadella said. “We will reinvent productivity for people who are swimming in a growing sea of devices, apps, data and social networks.” Outlined aims included delivering more natural ways to interact with computers and marketing devices that show off capabilities of the company’s software. Senior team leaders at Microsoft have been asked to come up with ways to innovate processes and simplify operations. “Culture change means we will do things differently,” Nadella said in the company-wide message. “Often people think that means everyone other than them. In reality, it means all of us taking a new approach and working together.” In February, Nadella replaced Steve Ballmer at the Microsoft helm. He quickly called for the company founded in 1975 to think more like a startup. Nadella’s appointment coincided with Microsoft founder Bill Gates stepping back in as a “technology advisor,” giving up his title of chairman.
reduce. reuse. recycle.
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
You just know “So, how did you know?” This is the typical question I would ask married couples I encountered, whether interviewing on television, or on a personal day-to-day encounter. Relationships, especially marriages, simply fascinate me. How do couples know they are meant Ten Commandments for each other? of Wedding Planning I didn’t understand the typical reply: The wedding coordinator is your “god.” “You just know,” almost everyone would “Wedding coordinators are important say. And always I thought THAT was a bunch of baloney! In short, I never really because they guide you through wedding got the you-just-know answer until I knew planning, pointing you to the right direcit myself. Before I met Lester, I thought tions, introducing you to reliable vendors,” the decision to spend the rest of your life said my wonderful wedding coordinator, with someone was that, a decision that one Rocio Nuyda, also an esteemed community consciously makes, based on a foolproof leader. “In the ideal world, you will only formula. I was hoping someone would get married once; so most brides don’t really know what’s going on, especially since break down that formula to me. Now I join the bunch of what I con- they are planning their first wedding. Most sidered “tricksters” (If “liars” is a strong vendors also look at brides as one-time clients. There’s no repeat-business here; word.) who reply, “You just know.” What I didn’t know, however, were the while coordinators can keep referring their intricacies of wedding planning, especially brides to the same, trusted vendors. So we since as a first-time bride, and hopefully can use that as leverage for negotiating one-time, I am going through the motions costs.” I say pick a great coordinator, one that for the first time. And what a waste since whatever I am learning now, is really complements or even shares your taste; something I hopefully won’t be needing or and suits your working style. You will using after this. Maybe someone out there will find good use for these:
PHL nabs 44 from China, Taiwan in Internet fraud MANILA, July 10, 2014 (AFP) - Fortytwo Taiwanese and two Chinese suspects have been arrested in the Philippines over a sophisticated Internet scam targeting compatriots back home, police said Thursday. The suspects – who posed as police officers, prosecutors, judges and anti-money laundering officials – cheated people from Taiwan and China out of their money by claiming they could safeguard their cash, a police statement said. The scammers would allegedly convince their victims that their bank accounts were being used for money-laundering and that their assets could be protected if they transferred all their money to accounts owned by the fraudsters, police added.
“The syndicates... usually go to the Philippines as tourists and rent houses in posh (housing projects)” where they set up their illegal operations, a police statement said. The suspects were arrested in a series of raids in the central city of Iloilo on Wednesday by a police anti-cybercrime unit and immigration bureau agents. The law enforcers were aided by an official of Taiwan’ s cultural office in Manila, it said. The two Chinese suspects were “caught in the act of engaging with their would-be victims abroad,” said Senior Inspector Joanna Fabro, adding that scammers often believed they were unlikely to be prosecuted in the Philippines. But she said the authorities were now boosting their anti-cybercrime capabilities.
“Maybe they aren’t afraid of our laws. But we have more teeth and we hope more of them will be apprehended soon,” she said. The suspects will eventually be deported to China and Taiwan respectively but the “digital evidence” of their crimes will be gathered by Philippine investigators to be used when they face trial at home, Fabro added.
have many meetings and will go through many decision-making processes with this person. Choose one you can trust. Thou shall not book vendors without meeting them in person. I almost made the mistake of booking a photographer I saw online. She had a great website, decent reviews on social media sites, and spoke quite professionally on the phone. But thankfully, I heeded my coordinator’s sage advice: “Wouldn’t you want to meet with her? Ask her to bring samples of albums she has done in the last 2 years,” Tita Rocio said. It is important that you have chemistry with your vendors. And I don’t know about you, but I am only able to ascertain chemistry during a face-to-face meeting. 3. Remember to ask for referrals and recommendations. To narrow down your choices – caterers, rentals, videographer, photographer, music and so on - it it better to ask for referrals and recommendations from friends and family who have “been there.” But also take note to pick specific friends and family members who share the same taste and style. 4. Honor your father and your mother, and your in-laws. Ask them for family traditions, if any. Does your mom or mom-in-law want you to wear the gown she wore to her own wedding, some 40 years ago? If your
Visit www.Balita.com
15
wedding is vintage-themed, why not? Or if the design of the gown does not flatter your figure, agree to compromise. Maybe you’ll just wear her veil? 5. Thought shall not pay the bill all at once. Keep a record of what’s due and when. It is costly! There were times when I was tempted to lie about the wedding, in order to get the normal rate, “Oh I’m just throwing a party for 70 of my closest friends and family, to celebrate the month of July,” I thought of saying, because I don’t understand why the price of anything is normally higher for weddings, compared to other events. To manage your budget, keep receipts. I prefer to pay with credit card, so I have a record of everything, including meals while meeting with vendors, gas, and all other little things that add up. We even designated a “wedding” card. But don’t forget to pay everything off, of course! To be continued.... Jannelle So is taking a break from 20-years of print and broadcast journalism career that began in the Philippines and continued here in the US. Connect to her on Facebook (www.facebook.com/JannelleSoOFFICIAL); Twiiter (www.twitter. com/JannelleSo); and Instagram (www. instagram.com/JannelleSo) or email her at sojannelle77@gmail.com.
16
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
UP Alumni of Greater LA (UPAAGLA) welcomes UP President Alfredo Pascual The University of the Philippines Alumni Association of Greater Los Angeles (UPAAGLA), led by its current President, Vicky Achacoso-Gancayco hosted a warm reception for the university’s 20th President Alfredo “Fred” Pascual at the Silverlake Medical Center Conference Hall on a Labor Day holiday weekend, last Saturday. The reception started with welcome remarks by emcee Maning Rivera, invocation by Bobby Canseco, followed by former Madrigal singer Annie Nepomuceno leading the crowd by singing the Star Spangled Banner help the university in putting our resources and Lupang Hinirang. together, not just as alumni or friends of In her welcome remarks, UPAAGLA UP, but as parents to our children in order President Vicky Gancayco thanked every- to enable the next generation to pursue the one who came inspite of the long weekend, university’s goals and ideals of academic not only to give a warm welcome to UP’s excellence.” 20th President Fred Pascual, but to network The entertainment portion was provided with co-UP alumni in providing a plat- by Annie Nepomuceno and her group of form to enable the organization maintain its singers showing us a sampling of their current mission of scholarship programs, upcoming concert called “Serenata Filiwhere they most recently have awarded pina,” which will be showing at the Ford four (4) scholarships to students displaced Amphitheatre on August 17, 2014. by typhoon Yolanda in UP Visayas. As the producer/director and singer of Consul General Leo Herrera Lim, a UP “Serenata Filipina,” Annie performed some alumnus himself, attended along with his of the OPM songs she will be singing, such wife Fides. Ambassador Ed Espiritu, also as: “Sharing Dreams With Each Other,” a UP alumnus attended the event with his “All I Need Is You” and “Never Say wife, Lydia. Goodbye.” In his brief speech, ConGen Lim Another performer, the pretty Lara stressed the importance of us (the UP Avengoza, who played “Jasmine” in Disalumni group) to remain “connected” ney’s “Mulan” sang her rendition of “You with our alma mater, the University of the Can Paint With All The Colors Of The Philippines, where we all “came from.” In Rain” and the delightful Tagalog song of his usual jovial spirit and a sense of hu- “Ewan Ko Ba Kung Bakit Type Kita, Hindi mor, ConGen Lim pointed out that he Ka Naman Guapo.” was thankful for the presence of former The Broadway rendition of “Climb Ambassador Ed Espiritu, who was his Every Mountain, Follow Your Dreams,” mentor when he was assigned in London was sang by Louise Marie Cornilez, while and likewise, he thanked the presence of Mon David belted out his jazz songs such his lovely wife with the following quip as Bette Midler’s “You ‘Got to Give A :”behind every successful man is a woman Little” and Louis Armstrong’s “I See Trees, named Fides.” I see them Grow...” On a similar note, former Ambassador Highlight of the evening was UP PresiEd Espiritu spoke on the importance of the dent Fred E. Pascual’s vision statement UP alumni group as we should “jointly in Visayan called “Padayon UP!” which
LAW OFFICES OF LARRY BAUTISTA YANG
BANKRUPTCY WE ARE A DEBT RELIEF AGENCY. WE REPRESENT DEBTORS IN CHAPTER 7, 13, 11 AND 12 OF THE NEW BANKRUPTCY LAW. THIS INCLUDES RELIEF FROM MORTGAGE PAYMENT DEFAULTS AND PRE-FORECLOSURE RELIEF FOR RESIDENCES AND OTHER REAL ESTATE PROPERTIES.
30th Year in
Law Practice
Let Me Help You Wipe Out Debt & Obtain A Fresh Start
THOUSANDS OF SUCCESSFUL CASES IN LA, ORANGE, RIVERSIDE, SAN BERNARDINO, VENTURA & SAN DIEGO COUNTIES•CHAPTER 7, 11, 12 & 13
Have you mortgaged your grandchildren to Mastercard and Visa? Snowed under by a mountain of debt? Worried about losing your home and car? Call me immediately today! Yes, I speak Tagalog. No, I won’t charge you for consultation. I can help you keep your home, car and other personal properties. I look forward to help you: discharge debts; stop foreclosures; wage garnishments; stop harassments from collectors; stop repossessions. •CANCEL 2ND TRUST DEEDS •DIVORCE & FAMILY LAW •CIVIL, BUSINESS & REAL ESTATE LITIGATION & TRIALS
UP Alumni (from left) Melba Lim, Ambassador Ed Espiritu (4th from left), UP President Fred Pascual (5th from left), Evelyn Portugal, yours truly and Juliet Posadas (3rd from right).
means “Onward UP! Path to Greatness in the 20th Century! In a comprehensive video presentation, Fred Pascual showed us that UP has exponentially grown to eight (8) Institutes of Learning: UP Diliman, Los Baños, Manila, Baguio, Cebu, Visayas, Mindanao and the Open University; 17 campus locations scattered throughout the country; 190 undergraduate programs; 50,000 students
(80% undergraduate and 20% graduate); 4,000 full-time faculty (72% with graduate degrees); over 1,000 part-time faculty; over 1,000 research and extension staff over 8,000 administrative personnel and over 260,000 alumni worldwide. According to President Fred Pascual, UP’s “Path to Greatness” can only be achieved through a collective recognition See MYRNA, page 17
Got a Legal Problem, We can help you TRUST THE ATTORNEY WHO CARES
Miguel P. Inumerable and Associates t Family Law-Divorce, Custody and Support t Immigration & Deportation t Bankruptcy and Creditor Problems t Business, Real Estate & Employment Litigation t Professional Licensing or Regulatory Violations t Probate t Criminal matters
Call 818.242.4200 Toll Free: 1.888.315.8909 L A R R Y YA N G i s a g r a d u a t e o f Georgetown University Law Center with a master’s degree in law and practices before California State Courts, United Sates District Courts, the California Appeals for the 9th Circuit and US Bankruptcy Courts.
UCLA Law Graduate Over 20 Years Experience
Atty. Miguel P. Inumerable
“With several Southern California office locations to serve you”
Call our office for appointment
(626) 284-1142 and ask for Angie or Jess. Atty. Yang will personally interview you
Filipino Po Tayo. Free Consultation. Weekend & Evening Appointments Available.
LOS ANGELES AREA MAIN OFFICE: 300 W. Glenoaks Blvd. # 300, Glendale, Ca 91202 rd
3655 Torrance Blvd., 3 Floor Torrance, CA 90503
COVINA / INLAND EMPIRE MAIN OFFICE: 2149 E. Garvey Ave. North, Ste. A-2 West Covina, CA 91791
500 N. State College Blvd., #1100 Orange, CA 92868
8333 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730
Main St. Mission Rd.
Atlantic Blvd.
FREMONT AVE.
110
710
1000 S. Fremont Ave., Building A-1 Suite 1125 Unit 58, Alhambra, CA 91803
UP President Fred Pascual (leftmost) during video presentation of UP’s “Path to Greatness in the 20th Century” at Silver Lake Medical Center conference hall in Los Angeles.
10 WEST DOWNTOWN LA.
Tagalog / English Spoken!
Consultation also available in Long Beach, Panorama City and West Covina
Balita
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Visit www.Balita.com
17
Dealing with assets omitted from a divorce case You and your spouse may have gone through a lengthy and contentious divorce proceeding. This is usually the most difficult period of a person’s life. Finally, time heals all pain. You and your spouse get tired of bickering and being mean to one another that you both decide to compromise each other positions and resolve all issues in your divorce case through settlement. Shortly thereafter, the divorce judgment is finally entered by the Court and you get a sigh of relief. Later you discovery previously adjudicated by a judgment in that “Oops!,� your ex-spouse had com- the proceeding.� California Family Code munity asset and/or debt that was left out §2556. Even if the parties did not expressly of the divorce judgment. This may be a reserve jurisdiction on that piece of asset, pension, retirement account, a hidden bank the Court retains the power to divide a account, or a piece of real estate property specific property if there is a community which was not divided in the judgment. interest in it. What is one to do in this situation? The The Court’s “continuing jurisdiction� answer can be found in California Family over omitted community estate assets or Code §2556. debts is invoked by filing a post judgment California Family Code §2556 pro- Motion, or Request for Order in the divides “In a proceeding for dissolution of vorce case. Family Code §2556 provides marriage, for nullity of marriage, or for “A party may file a postjudgment motion legal separation of the parties, the court or request for order in the proceeding in has continuing jurisdiction to award com- order to obtain adjudication of any community estate assets or community estate munity estate asset or liability omitted or liabilities to the parties that have not been not adjudicated by the judgment.� The
postjudgment partition of the unadjudicated community estate claims is properly entertained by the court even absent an express reservation of jurisdiction in its prior judgment. Marriage of Moore & Ferrie (1993) 14 CA4th 1472, 1483, 18 CR2d 543, 549, fn. 9. The postjudgment motion is available to any omitted asset or debt not adjudicated by the divorce judgment. However, Family Code §2556 does not extend to division and adjudication of any separate property. Marriage of Klug (2005) 130 CA4th 1389, 1396, 31 CR3d 327, 331–332. If an asset was partially omitted, the Court can still divide and adjudicate the portion that has been omitted postjudgment under family code §2566. Community Property adjudicated under § 2556 shall be divided equally “unless the court finds upon good cause shown that the interests of justice require an unequal division of the asset or liability.� Family Code §2556. 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, P.C. This article is not a solicitation. Attorney Kenneth Ursua Reyes is a Board 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, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA, 90010. Tel. (213) 388-1611 or e-mail kureyeslaw@ gmail.com or visit our website at Kenreyeslaw.com
MYRNA
benefit incoming students for the August, 2014 school year. “The STS was established in December, 2013 to speed up the processing of tuition bracket applications adjust income brackets of student applicants, and increase the stipend of poor students in the university.� President Pascual also showed the ongoing construction being built to expand innovative learning such as the NIH Building project, geared toward buiding an Institute of Aging educational program; other buildings are currently being refurbished such as the Abelardo Hall and the UP Theatre, in order to enable the student population to maximize its use. Other new programs being developed include: the Green UP Program - which
emphasizes the construction of green building and the development of cacao plantation through the Obu-Manuku Tribe, as a project of the UP Mindanao’s Forestry Program. Finally, President Pascual ‘s presentation ended with “extending the reach of UP� through “Modernizing Pedagogy� which identifies “blended learning by developing massive online courses (MOOCS) - these are online programs which will be available to all.� To Fred Pascual, who is a younger fraternity brod, we thank you for leading our university to a new path and for your impressive achievement as the 20th President of our university! We are ONE UP - ONE UNIVERSITY! Push on UP!
From page 16
that we are ONE UP - “One University, One UP!� His vision for UP includes a “leadership role in the development of a globally competitive Philippines driven by academic excellence.� One UP is “guided by One Chapter, upholding the same tradition of honor and excellence. Moving UP toward greatness is possible through the unified effort of its students, faculty, researchers, administrative staff and alumni.� In an effort to meet UP’s globalization recognition under Fred Pascual’s leadership, the new UP now have various campuses with specific institutes of learning specializations such as: UP Manila -
learning specializations focus on: Health Sciences: Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, etc.; UP Los Baùos – specializes in: Agriculture, Forestry, Veterinary Medicine, etc.; UP Visayas – specializes in Fisheries, Oceanography, Marine Biology, etc.; UP Mindanao - focus on: Architecture and Indigenous Cultural Studies; UP Pampanga – focus on: Sports and Kinetics programs and the Open University, which offers an online program for students unable to find accessible transportation.. What’s also most impressive in President Pascual’s presentation is the accessibility of the UPCAT Review to every student regardless of financial status and the new implementation of UP’s socialized tuition system (STS) which will
Pilipino po tayo! LAW OFFICES OF
KENNETH U. REYES, P.C.
* Certified Family Law Specialist The State Bar of California Board of Legal Specialization
- Certified Family Law Specialist - Certified Public Accountant (Inactive) - J.D. Southwestern University Law School, Los Angeles, CA - B.S. Accounting, California State University, San Bernardino, CA
FAMILY LAW • Divorce • Community Property Division • Child Custody and Spousal Support • Domestic Violence Restraining Order • Legal Separation and Nullity • Parentage • Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements
CALL OR E-MAIL FOR AN APPOINTMENT
213-388-1611 or
kureyeslaw@gmail.com
IMMIGRATION • Marriage Petitions • Relative Petitions • Removal of Conditional Green Card • Humanitarian Reinstatements • Child Status Protection Act Issues • Deportation Defense • Employment based Petitions and PERM • H-1B Visas
LAW OFFICES OF
KENNETH U. REYES
*Kenneth U. Reyes, Esq. CFLS
ESTATES AND TRUST • Living Trust • Wills • Probate • Conservatorship
CIVIL LITIGATION • Contract Disputes • Business Disputes • Corporate and Partnership Disputes
3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700 Los Angeles, CA 90010
www.kenreyeslaw.com kureyeslaw@gmail.com
18
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
OPINION
Pia Cayetano: It‘s about time we question automatic debt appropriation issue in budget
MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – The automatic appropriation for debt in the national budget is another issue that may be raised before the Supreme Court, according to administration Senator Pia Cayetano. Cayetano said the Supreme Court‘s decision declaring controversial Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) unconstitutional would be a good opportunity to raise the same question on the automatic appropriations in the annual budget being submitted to Congress by Malacañang. “Lagi ko kini-question during the time of debate on the general principles is yung powers ng President to perform legislative function. That‘s on record,” she told reporters in an interview Tuesday. (I always questioned during the time of debate on the general principles the powers of the President to perform legislative function. That‘s on record.) “I‘ve always questioned how come meron tayong (we have) automatic appropriations for our debts and I have also questioned the power of the President to impound.” “Time and again, the response to me by whoever the chairman of the committee on finance was is that it is our practice and we need a law to change it.”She added that it was not only the practice but there were existing laws that allow the automatic appropriations in the budget. And this practice of budget impoundment and automatic appropriation, Cayetano said, are considered constitutional until declared otherwise. “There is a principle that laws are considered constitutional until it is declared otherwise and public officials perform their duties also with the cloak of legality until it is declared it is not. So ganun din kami mag-proceed di ba (So that‘s how we should proceed, isn‘t it?) We do our jobs based on existing laws until we are told that they unconstitutional,” she further said. But with the court‘s decision against the DAP, the senator expressed hope that the issue on the automatic appropriation would also be addressed or raised before the high tribunal. “I actually welcome the development kasi I will be able to debate again with renewed vigor the power of the legislative to perform its power of the purse (because it really belongs to the legislative) and as I said it‘s my 10th anniversary this year and I‘ve always said that that‘s the power that was denied by Congress not only during my time but even way before that,” she said. Cayetano said a separate petition against the automatic appropriation has to be filed at the SC since it was not covered on the court‘s recent decision on the DAP issue. “But it seems to be a good opportunity (to file the case) sana nga may mga NGO (non-government organization)… huwag na ako kasi nga marami na akong pending na cases sa SC…” the senator added. (MNS)
US presses China on human rights, maritime tensions By Jo Biddle
BEIJING, July 9, 2014 (AFP) – The United States on Wednesday “forcefully” pressed China on festering maritime rows and human rights, even as the two countries vowed to seek cooperation rather than confrontation. Opening two days of talks between the world’s two largest economic powers, US Secretary of State John Kerry warned his Chinese counterparts that it would be “unacceptable” to try to create a new status quo in the South and East China Seas, where Beijing is in dispute with its neighburs. He also did not “pull any punches” when it came to human rights issues, highlighting Washington’s “perception of a trend in China with an increase in arrests, with an increase of harassments, of individuals who are expressing political views,” a senior US administration official said. Chinese President Xi Jinping earlier sought to brush aside disputes, saying it was “natural that China and the US may have different views and even frictions on certain issues”. “This is what makes communication and cooperation even more necessary,” he urged. “If we are in confrontation it will surely spell disaster for both countries and for the world,” he said, adding the Pacific powers needed to “break the old pattern of inevitable confrontation”. But in a small circle of top leaders at the sixth annual Strategic and Economic Dialogue, Kerry raised some of the thorniest issues bedevilling US-China ties, telling State Councillor Yang Jiechi that nations cannot “be permitted simply to act unilaterally to advance territorial claims or interests”. “We believe that a rules-based order in the AsiaPacific region is essential,” the senior US administration official said, adding “we want China to contribute to and participate in that order, not pull against regional and global norms”. “Trying to fix the problem through creating a new status quo at the expense of regional stability and regional harmony is unacceptable,” the US official added. China lays claim to almost all of the strategic South China Sea—also claimed in part by the Philippines and Vietnam, among others. In recent months, China has more aggressively pursued its territorial ambitions, triggering rising tensions with boats ramming each other, the use of water cannon and arrests of fishermen. China is also embroiled in a row with US security
ally Japan over Tokyo-controlled islands in the East China Sea, with both Asian powers regularly sending patrol ships and aircraft to the area. Talking tough Kerry, who with Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew is leading a large US delegation to the talks, urged China to avail itself of international mechanisms to resolve the competing claims. The top US diplomat also renewed pleas to Beijing to ensure respect of cultural, religious and ethnic rights across its regions including Tibet and far western Xinjiang, home to the mostly Muslim Uighur minority, which has seen a spate of violent incidents. “I would wager that no one on the Chinese side of the table... today thought that Secretary Kerry was going easy on human rights,” the US administration official said, adding Kerry “didn’t pull his punches”. Outspoken Tibetan writer Tsering Woeser told AFP she was being held under house arrest during the dialogue, after US diplomats invited her to meet visiting officials. Several police officers were stationed outside her apartment in Beijing, she said, adding: “It’s to stop me from going to the US embassy.” Climate change was also a top focus, as the two largest emitters of the greenhouse gases that cause global warming agreed to launch eight pilot projects aimed at reducing their carbon footprints. “People around the world are demanding action,” Kerry told a working group on the issue. “Climate change respects no borders, no boundaries, and affects the entire planet. For better or worse, we are now aware of the consequences of inaction in ways that we never have before.” US special envoy for climate change Todd Stern said the two sides had had some “constructive” talks ahead of a UN meeting due in Paris next year to set new global gas emissions targets for after 2020. “It is crucial for China to play a very important role in reducing emissions,” Stern said. Xie Zhenhua, vice chairman of the National Development and Reform Commission, told reporters Beijing was working on setting its targets. “In terms of responding to climate change we share common but differentiated responsibilities,” Xie stressed. China has long argued that it remains a developing country despite its economic clout, and as such should not have to shoulder the same burden for reducing greenhouse gases.
Lawmaker lauds signing of unity manifesto by frats, youth organizations vs hazing MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) – Akbayan Party-list Rep. Barry Gutierrez lauded on Wednesday the signing of a unity manifesto by various fraternities and youth groups who committed to stop hazing practices and help end hazing-related deaths and violence. “In almost two decades since the Anti-Hazing Law took effect, it is very alarming that a lot of our promising young people continue to lose their lives to hazing during fraternity initiation rites. This must not be tolerated,” Gutierrez said. “The signing and launching of the unity manifesto that commits groups, fraternities and sororities to ban hazing within their organizations, is a step in the right direction. But we must also ensure that this manifesto will translate into more substantial, institutional reforms within these organizations and in our law on hazing,” the lawmaker added. The manifesto, which was signed Wednesday following a discussion meeting on hazing convened by the National Youth Commission (NYC), was crafted after the death of De La Salle University-College of St. Benilde sophomore student Guillo Cesar Servando, and the recent exposure of a hazing incident during which a
University of the Philippines- Diliman student sustained severe injuries. Gutierrez also urged the elders and members of the different fraternities and other organizations to take a stance and to create alternative ways to usher in new members within their groups without exposing them to violence and fatal risks. “Hazing is a well-known practice, but very difficult to monitor, like identifying its victims and perpetrators, due to a very strong culture of silence within and among groups who administer them. For practical changes to come about, there must be an internal desire and commitment among organizations and their leaders to end the practice and to consciously pursue hazing prevention efforts,” the lawmaker pointed out. “From these groups who attended the discussion and signed the manifesto, we hope that they will lead the institution of zerotolerance policy on hazing within their organizations and the creation of a comprehensive plan to prevent its possible occurrences. This could be done by integrating methods for tracking, reporting, and preventing of the incidence of hazing,” he added.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
19
Murrieta fears migrant invasion them to head instead to San Ysidro, near San Diego. Busloads of migrants But wary locals have remained on the lookout, worried that authorities will try to bring more busloads in if they let their guard down. “I don’t want diseases, I don’t want criminal elements, I don’t want terrorist elements,” said Burke, a visibly angry retiree who lives nearby. “I feel compassion for them, but I didn’t create the problem in their country and I will not sit down and see them create a problem in my country,” he added, standing under a parasol in the desert town. Overwhelmed by the massive waves of mostly lone child immigrants crossing from Mexico into Texas and Arizona, the US government has been forced to transfer some of them to detention centers elsewhere, including in California. Murrieta residents fear that, after submitting the children to medical tests and legal processing, authorities will let them free to roam the town. “They are becoming homeless. They are not verifying where the relatives are. They give them a ticket (for a bus), some money for food and send them out,” Miles Kaplan told AFP. “If I lived in Central America, I would want Border Patrol agents from Eagle Pass, Texas rescue a woman to live here too. We and her daughter from the Rio Grande River. The El Salvador can’t sustain them, so citizens were struggling to stay afloat when spotted by agents, who deployed flotation devices and pulled them from the water. we are going to be as bad as their countries.” Photo: Carl Nagy, Border Patrol Agent By Sara Puig
MURRIETA, July 4, 2014 (AFP) – Days after things nearly turned ugly here, several residents kept up their protest Thursday against a surge of undocumented migrants near the border with Mexico. “Border patrol, we know that you guys are doing your job, but unfortunately it’s not helping America. Shut down the border,” Pete Santilli shouted through a megaphone. The anti-immigration radio talk show host was among a small of protesters still venting anger in the California town of Murrieta, in turmoil since three buses brought 140 undocumented immigrants from Texas on Tuesday. With placards reading “Stop Illegal Immigration” and “Send Them Home,” protesters blocked the road in this small, peaceful town of some 100,000 residents to prevent the buses entering town, forcing
Hundreds of immigrant rights’ defense groups have voiced outrage at the “intolerance” of Murrieta, located about halfway between Los Angeles and the Mexican border, accusing residents of racism and discrimination. The American Civil Liberties Union condemned locals’ attitudes, saying it wished “that refugees fleeing truly terrible conditions in their home countries would be greeted with sympathy rather than fear and xenophobia.” “I’m hurt because it’s not discrimination. But we can’t take this anymore,” said Kaplan. Murrieta Mayor Alan Long – whose wife is Mexican – held a town meeting late Wednesday with residents and officials
seeking to calm their fears, and reiterate that it’s a federal problem that President Barack Obama should resolve. Obama announced Monday that he would act unilaterally to ease the situation, admitting that immigration reform is blocked in the Republican-dominated House of Representatives. Murrieta’s economic development director, Bruce Coleman, said the town has no say in when or how many more migrants arrive – in theory 140 are due every 72 hours. “It’s beyond our powers,” he said. “I guarantee you I can have 50, 100 people in minutes here,” said Burke, who declined to provide his last name. “We don’t want them here, we won’t let them in.”
20
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Contest will search for undiscovered baby boomers with star quality and amazing voices
US military awards $40 million toward memory implant
WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 13, 2014) – Calling all Baby Boomers looking to become America’s next big singing sensation! AARP is launching a national search to make one lucky person’s dream a reality while showing that talent is ageless. Powered by American Idol Live!, AARP’s Boomer Superstar contest is open to anyone born between 1946 and 1964 and gives Boomers the chance to compete for a $5,000 prize and an audition with music label 19 Recordings. “We are thrilled to be teaming up with American Idol Live! to find talent and to show that dreams have no expiration date and there is a real possibility of reaching your goals later in life,� said Myrna Blyth, editorial director, AARP. AARP is also sponsoring the 41-city American Idol Live! tour, which kicks off June 24th in Binghamton, NY at the Broome County Arena. Contestants can submit video entries online (aarpcontest.votigo.com/aarpcontest) and on AARP’s Facebook (www.facebook. com/AARP?sk=app_219539031502525) page through July 11th and a panel of judges will narrow the field to the top 30 semi-finalists. The general public will help to determine the top eight finalists via online voting from July 15 - August 11. Voting is open to all AARP.org registered users and each voter age 45+ (limit 1 vote per day) will be entered for a chance to win a $3,000 sweepstakes*. Finalists will be flown to San Diego to compete in a LIVE singing competition. On September 5th at AARP’s “Ideas@50� national event, the top five contestants will perform in
WASHINGTON, July 9, 2014 (AFP) – US military researchers announced Wednesday they have awarded $40 million toward developing a new kind of brain implant that may help restore memories in wounded soldiers and civilians. The work represents a major scientific leap forward, but experts said many hurdles remain before it can be shown to work in people, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) said. The hope is that some day, a wireless, implantable device will bridge gaps in the injured brain and make it easier to remember basic events, places, and context – known as declarative memories. This kind of recall can be lost in traumatic brain injury, which has affected 270,00 US military service people since 2000 and touches 1.7 million US civilians each year. “Our vision is to develop neuroprosthetics for memory recovery in patients living with brain injury and dysfunction,� said Justin Sanchez, program manager of the Restoring Active Memory (RAM) program at DARPA. “Those service members have paid the ultimate price in service of our nation, so it our great responsibility to try to come up with new and innovative – not only scientific but medical – approaches that can help repay some of that debt,� said Sanchez. DARPA said it was carefully weighing the ethics of such experiments, and is consulting with a panel of neuroscience experts about potential pitfalls associated with the research.
AARP launches search for America’s top boomer talent with Boomer Superstarcontest powered by American Idol Live! front of a live audience of AARP members and a celebrity panel of judges, which include 19-time Grammy Award winning musician and producer Emilio Estefan and Grammy Award-winning R&B/jazz vocalist Patti Austin. American IdolŽ Live! concert attendees will be able to get additional information about AARP’s Real Possibilities initiatives, as well as the Boomer Superstar contest. AARP kiosks will be located in the concert venue at up to 21 tour stops. The Boomer Superstar contest is part of AARP’s year-long Boomers@50+ initiative which celebrates the last of the Baby Boomers turning 50 in 2014. *Complete contest information, rules and regulations can be found online at www.aarp.org/boomersuperstar. About AARP AARP is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, with a membership of nearly 38 million, that helps people turn their goals and dreams into real possibilities, strengthens communities and fights for the issues that matter most to families such as healthcare, employment and income security, retirement planning, affordable utilities and protection from financial abuse. We advocate for individuals in the marketplace by selecting products and services of high quality and value
to carry the AARP name as well as help our members obtain discounts on a wide range of products, travel, and services. A trusted source for lifestyle tips, news and educational information, AARP produces AARP The Magazine, the world’s largest circulation magazine; AARP Bulletin; www.aarp.org; AARP TV & Radio; AARP Books; and AARP en Espaùol, a Spanishlanguage website addressing the interests and needs of Hispanics. AARP does not endorse candidates for public office or make contributions to political campaigns or candidates. The AARP Foundation is an affiliated charity that provides security, protection, and empowerment to older persons in need with support from thousands of volunteers, donors, and sponsors. AARP has staffed offices in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Learn more at www.aarp.org.
By Kerry Sheridan
LAW OFFICES OF
N. JOE P.
INUMERABLE Graduate of Notre Dame Law School 24 years of Jury Trial-Litigation experience
Legal Service with Personal Touch %% & ' ( " ) * + , - & .
!"# " $ %& '# (" ) * + , + - . / + - , / / +0 0 . +
+0 , + 0 / / -0 . + / /
/ 123
!! "
###$
$
AREAS OF PRACTICES • Bankruptcy • Criminal Law • Business/Real Estate Litigation • Divorce-Child Custody • Immigration • Health Care Matters • Personal Injury Call ME for FREE Consultation. Asahan mong AKO mismo ang tutulong sa'yo! 3600 Wilshire Boulevard Suite 2020 (where the Phil Consulate is) Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 251-5477
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
21
Locally-grown, organic: LA’s first ever pot farmer’s market By Veronique Dupont
LOS ANGELES, July 5, 2014 (AFP) – It looks like any other American farmer’s market. Buyers sniff the wares, test weights and compare, while vendors tout their product. But the only produce on offer is cannabis—organic, of course. “We have lollipops for $7, chocolate bars to help you relax for $13, and ‘cosmic dust,’” said Bill Harrison, a seller who also stocks plain old smokable marijuana. The Heritage Farmer’s Market – held over the July 4th long weekend – was the first of its kind in Los Angeles. Despite the scorching sun, the line to get in stretched hundreds of yards (meters). The crowd was diverse and multigenerational, interspersed with hippies, rockers, hipsters and some nondescript suburban types. But they all have at least one thing in common – they all have, as required for entry, a doctor’s prescription. In California, marijuana is only legal for medicinal purposes. For recreational use, possession of less than an ounce (28 grams) could result in a fine. Larger amounts can trigger criminal charges. Edwynn Delgado knows the laws by heart: “for medical use, you are allowed up to four ounces at home, but I’d like to bring back home more today,” he joked. He has smoked pot since he was 11. “In my neighborhood, there was a always a lot of weed around,” the smiling 20-year-old said, wearing a baseball cap over his black hair. He became a “legal” user at age 18, when he got a prescription to ease muscle aches. Delgado waited for more than an hour at the stand that offers the best prices, at $180 per ounce, instead of $300 as charged in a regular dispensary. Besides getting a good deal, Delgado prefers coming where he can count on quality product. “Street dealers are dangerous because they put other stuff on it,” he said. ‘De-demonizing’ cannabis “It’s like in a regular farmer’s market” said Adam Agathakis, one of the organizers of the weekend fair set to end Sunday. “People come here to talk to growers, to check that it’s grown without pesticides and that it doesn’t have mold.” The bearded 35-year-old, in pleated pants and a striped shirt, has campaigned to “de-demonize” cannabis since his father died of cancer a decade ago. “When he was dying, marijuana was the only thing alleviating the pain,” Agathakis said. Marijuana grower Terry Sand said that cannabis markets have sprouted elsewhere, including northern California and Washington state, but they weren’t quite the same. “They were more like conventions. Here it’s special, because they are bringing growers and consumers together,” Sand said. The former elevator technician said he grew up amid cannabis and marijuana: “My parents were hippies, they were growing (marijuana) in their backyard.” But when a new technique emerged to help boost cannabis productivity in covered areas, Sand said he saw a “massive overwhelming opportunity.” Cancer patient Karen Flores, 50, said she smokes because “it helps me relax, it helps my nerves, it helps the pain I have.” She came to the market for good prices and quality. “It has to taste good, to smell good,” Flores said. But she doesn’t like to light up in public.
An Expert Immigration Attorney for All your Immigration needs Both Colorado and Washington states approved such cannabis sales in November 2012 referendums and the first Colorado pot shops opened their doors on January 1 amid much fanfare and media attention. On Tuesday, it was Washington’s turn to make history.
When she is away from home, she snacks on brownies, like those she just bought. Also on offer: gold-plated pipes, pizzas, meringue pies and waffles. At Mathew Gerson’s stand, a more unusual product is for sale: “it’s a vaginal lubricant, it is coconut oil-infused,” he said. “With young women, it enhances sensations, and with menopausal women, it awakens their sexuality. And it helps them sleep.” Cheryl Shuman, head of a public relations firm, said she almost died of cancer in 2006, and credits marijuana for helping her pull through. She joined the campaign to decriminalize marijuana, organizing the Beverly Hills Cannabis Club and becoming one of the leaders of Moms for Marijuana, an international group for women who support legalization. One weighty argument in favor, Shuman emphasized, is the economic potential of the market, estimated around $47 billion for the US states where it’s legal alone.
Approvals are what we get from Immigration Services for our clients WE SPEAK TAGALOG MANDARIN, CANTONESE & FUKIENESE
Atty. Dixon Wong
S P E C I A L I Z E S • All types of Non-Immigrant Working Visas • Extension and Change of Status Application • PERM (Labor Certification) • Immigrant Visa Applications • Green Card through employment offer • J Waiver Application • Family Petitions • Registered Nurse and Healthcare Professionals Visa Applications • Exchange Visitor, Student & Fiancé(e) Visa
I N :
• Mandamus • BIA and Federal Court Appeals • Criminal Defense for Green Card Holders and Non-Immigrants • Asylum Application • Deportation and Removal Proceedings • Adoption Petitions • Naturalization Applications and Appeals • Green Cards through Investor Visas • Battered Spouse Applications
With two locations to serve you in San Gabriel Valley • Pasadena
Call To Schedule a Free Consultation:
Tel 626.577.1100
600 South Lake Ave., Suite 301 Pasadena, CA 91106
Fax 626.577.1102
Office Hours: Monday - Friday • Saturday by Appointment
P
Philippine Islands Cargo & Travel L.L.C.
“Sapagkat, Mahalaga ang Sigurado Ka“
Balikbayan Box Metro Manila $
House to House Service
XXL BOX/ Metro Manila
off Why droppick-up if we cahne same for t rice. 2 boxes minimum low p Limited time only
ily m a F s i s De A
SUBUKAN SA PRESYO...MANATILI SA SERBISYO “SERVING THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1992” *Price applicable within LA County only
Now improved faster & reliable service!
2 boxes minimum Limited time only
GIVE US A CALL! TOLL FREE
(888) 732-3962
22
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
FOOD & DINING Pair wholesome, delicious pudding with ingredients from your own pantry or fridge
FAMILY FEATURES
W
hat do you reach for around 3 in the afternoon? Something salty? Something crunchy? Something creamy, smooth and sweet? These days, more and more snackers are looking for something wholesome and satisfying to get them through the afternoon. Here’s one snacking choice you may not have thought of: pudding. When pudding is made right — just the way your grandma used to — it’s made with real ingredients like milk and eggs, cooked slowly until it’s creamy and delicious. While cooking up your own pudding is a fun and satisfying weekend or evening project, when you need a quick afternoon snack, that’s probably not in the cards. Fortunately, there are still some companies making pudding just the way you would at home, slowly simmered to perfection. This is great news for people who want a smooth and creamy snack they can feel good about. There’s a good reason why simple, comforting pudding was a favorite childhood snack — and is still a wholesome snack choice today.
Simple Ideas for a Delicious Snack Pudding is perfect straight out of the refrigerator, of course, and all you need to enjoy it is a spoon. But you can make it your own with other ingredients that you probably have right in your kitchen. Take a look at your spice rack: You’ve probably got cinnamon, nutmeg and cayenne pepper. In your pantry, you’ve got crunchy cookies, pretzels and nuts. Fresh and frozen fruit are always good to have on hand. Even canned and shelfstable packs of tropical fruits can top your pudding. Before you know it, you’ll be seeing surprising pudding pairings everywhere you look. With a little creativity, you could have a unique pudding snack every day of the week. We’ve got a few ideas to get you started. Find out more about Kozy Shack® Pudding at www.kozyshack.com.
Banana Split Pudding Snack — Cut a banana in half the long way. Stand one half in a small cup. Spoon chocolate pudding into the cup and top with a maraschino cherry.
Mango & Coconut Tapioca Pudding — Cut a fresh mango into small pieces. Spoon Kozy Shack Tapioca Pudding into a small dish. Top with mango and sprinkle with toasted coconut. Blackberry Rice Pudding — Dice a handful of fresh blackberries. Layer blackberries and Kozy Shack Rice Pudding in small dish. Top with any remaining fruit and a mint leaf. Fresh Raspberries and Chocolate Pudding — Layer fresh raspberries, whipped cream and Kozy Shack Chocolate Pudding in a small dish. Top with extra raspberries and a dollop of whipped cream. Lemon Tapioca Pudding — Crush a couple of lemon shortbread cookies. Spoon into the bottom of a small dish. Top with Kozy Shack Tapioca pudding, a sprinkle of lemon zest and assorted fresh berries.
Minty Chocolate Pudding — Cut mint and chocolate layered candies into smaller pieces. Spoon Kozy Shack Chocolate Pudding into a small bowl. Top with mint pieces.
468 W. ARROW HWY. COVINA, CA. 91722
S. Citrus Ave
S. Azusa Ave
E. Gladstone St.
W. Arrow Hwy
FILIPINO CUISINE
DINE IN - TO GO - CATERING
FREE DELIVERY W/IN 20 MI
FREE DELIVERY W/IN 10 MI 2 FULL TRAY PANCIT/NOODLES 2 HALF TRAY PANCIT/NOODLES 2 FULL TRAY CHICKEN 2 HALF TRAY CHICKEN 1 FULL TRAY BEEF 1 HALF TRAY BEEF 1 FULL TRAY PORK 1 HALF TRAY PORK 1 FULL TRAY VEGETABLE 1 HALF TRAY VEGETABLE
25 PERSONS $150
FREE DELIVERY W/IN 5 MI
1 SMALL TRAY 1 SMALL TRAY 1 SMALL TRAY 1 SMALL TRAY 1 SMALL TRAY 1 FULL TRAY SEAFOOD 1 SMALL TRAY 1 HALF TRAY SEAFOOD 1 FULL TRAY BUKO PANDAN FREE 1 HALF TRAY BUKO PANDAN FREE 1 SMALL TRAY and
and
1 HALF TRAY CASSAVA CAKE FREE 1 HALF TRAY CASSAVA CAKE FREE 1 SMALL TRAY
FAX 626-332-4880
— Layer diced fresh peaches, Kozy Shack Rice Pudding and blueberries in a small dish. Top with any remaining fruit.
Malaki Po ang Parking Lot Natin! Pasyal na Kayo!
SPECIAL CATERING PACKAGES
100 PERSONS $580 50 PERSONS $280
Peaches & Blueberries Rice Pudding
: pecials S y a d i l Ho Chicken Relleno Bangus Relleno Embotido Chicken and Pork
PANCIT/NOODLES ST BREAKFA CHICKEN SERVEDnday! BEEF y & Su Saturda PORK
VEGETABLE SEAFOOD
BUKO PANDAN FREE or CASSAVA CAKE FREE
TRY IT!
YOU’LL LIKE IT!
MON- CLOSED T-F 10AM - 7PM S 8:30AM - 6PM SUN 8:30AM-5PM
wanted
Assistant Cook / (626)-332-4848 468 W. ARROW HWY. COVINA, CA. 91722 Female Located at Arrow Center Plaza where the new Harbor Freight Store is. Server (Full Time)
Candied Almond Slivers and Tapioca Pudding — Spoon tapioca pudding into a dish. Top with candied almond slivers.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
23
ENTERTAINMENT Alex Gonzaga not in a hurry to find love MANILA, July 9 (Mabuhay) -- ACTRESS Alex Gonzaga said she does not entertain suitors now as she prefers to wait for Mr. Right rather than go out with Mr. Right Now. In an interview, Gonzaga said that she in her entire life she only went out on dates with three men and only one of them became her boyfriend. After she had her share of heartbreaks, especially the last one where the courtship lasted longer than the actual relationship, the 26-year-old actress said she is wiser when it comes to love and looking for deeper connection with someone. “Pag may nanliligaw sa akin, before, sige i-try natin. Hindi ko talaga binibigyan ng time na mag doubt yung sarili ko, na tingnan muna from other perspective. Ngayon kinikilatis ko talaga muna yung manliligaw,” Alex said. She added: “Ayoko na pinipilit. Aantayin ko na lang talaga yung the one para sa akin. Naniniwala ako na sa isang relasyon, kung meant to be kayo, hindi na pinipilit sa umpisa pa lang. Pag may mga against na, may mga nangyayari, baka hindi nga talaga siguro.” The approval of her parents and sister, Toni Gonzaga, is important to her. She said that if her family does not like the guy, she most probably would not go out with him. “Pag sinabi niya (Toni) na, ‘ayaw ko yan,’ ayaw ko na din ‘yan talaga,” she said. Gonzaga also prefers going out with
non-showbiz guys. She said it is easy to be with someone who is not from the business as both parties can protect the relationship from the prying eyes of the public. “Sabi ng Ate ko, mas maganda daw ang non-showbiz para may outlet ka aside from showbiz. May natutunan ka pa at hindi lang ang mundo mo ay ito. Iba naman yung nalalaman mo,” she added. “Hindi ko kailangan ng trabaho sa love life. Hindi ko kailangan isama yung career ko sa personal kong buhay. Although mahihirapan siyang maintindihan, pero personal at amin lang talaga yun,” she said. Meanwhile, starting July 7, Gonzaga will prove that she has what it takes to be a serious actress, as she top bills the remake of the hit Korean television series “Pure Love”. The said project is her first soap with ABS-CBN. “Sobrang blessed ako ng trabaho na pwede kong ipakita yung kakayahan ko sa drama. It’s a new experience for me and talagang nasa trabaho talaga ako, kasi pag nagpapatawa, normal na yun eh,” she said. “Nung lumipat ako sa ABS-CBN, natuwa na ako na nabigyan ako ng trabaho dito kasi ang dami-daming artista. Wala tayong pinapangrap na dapat ganito or ganyan kasi happy na ako na nabibigyan ako ng proyekto,” she added. When asked if it is a conscious effort on her part to do something different from Toni’s television shows, Alex said
it just so happen that her first series is a dramatic one. “Walang conscious effort na ilayo yung image ko sa kanya and siguro ito talaga yung sakto na project for me. Sobrang walang competition and walang issue sa amin,” the actress, who will play the role of Diane in the series, said. Alex knows that a big chuck of her luck and success in the business is due to her
older sister. “Kung sasabihin na mas magaling siya, totoo naman yun kasi nakapasok naman ako sa showbiz dahil sa kanya. I owe it to her kaya walang problema yun,” she ended. Directed by Veronica Velasco and Mikey Del Rosario, “Pure Love” will also feature Aaron Villaflor, Yam Concepcion, Joseph Marco, Matt Evans, Yen Santos and Arjo Atayde. (MNS)
24
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
25
26
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Glendale Mitsubishi Los Angeles • San Gabriel Valley • San Fernando Valley
NEW 2014 MIRAGE LEASE FOR
$99/MO. +TAX FOR 24 MOS.
24-month closed-end lease at $99 per month plus tax. $0 security deposit. Total to start $2,695 with approved tier one credit through MMCA. 12,000 miles per year with 15 cents per excess mile per year. Offer expires 7/14/14. Stock# 40268. Vin #008823. MSRP $14,000.
NEW 2014 LANCER
NEW 2014 OUTLANDER SPORT ES
Richard Samaco FILIPINO SALES
LEASE FOR
LEASE FOR
$149/MO. $199/MO. +TAX FOR 24 MOS.
24-month lease at $149 per month plus tax. $0 security deposit. Total to start $2,695 with approved tier one credit through MMCA. 12,000 miles per year with 15 cents per excess mile per year. Offer expires 7/14/14. Vin #002122. MSRP $18,395.
+TAX FOR 36 MOS.
36-month closed end lease at $199 per month plus tax. $0 security deposit. Total to start $2,695 drive off. On approved tier 1 credit through MMCA. 12,000 miles per year with 15 cents per excess mile. Offer expires 7/14/14. Stock# 4074/004970, 4076/003751.
John Rodis
FILIPINO SALES
Cesar Macandili FILIPINO SALES
HOT SUMMER! HOT PRE-OWNED CARS!
Tawag na po R sa...
John at CESA Kay Richar d,
TEST DRIVE TODAY! MENTION THIS AD - AND -
GET 3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS LAS VEGAS VOUCHER
Glendale Mitsubishi
888-465-7218 1235 S. BRAND BLVD. GLENDALE, CA. www.glendalemitsubishi.com
**All special leases are based on approved Tier 1 Credit through Mitsubishi Motors Credit of America.All payments are plus tax, first payments, license and acquisition fees included in lease. Offer expires July 14, 2014.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
27
28
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Jannelle’s sister-in-law, Chris Feleo-So, orchestrated the games, the most fun of which was to drape rolls of tissue paper around four female guests acting out as bride. The adult craft makers were outdone in style by the five little girls who draped the bride-to-be in a strapless gown. They were declared the winners. (L-R: Mayette Alcantara, Kay Aquino, Rocio Nuyda, Jannelle, Josie Castro)
The Tea of Friendship: A Bridal Shower By Rocio Nuyda
“Tea became more than an idealization of the form of drinking; it is a religion of the art of life”, Kakuzo Okakura. Then, there is one from George Gissie who was quoted to say, “The mere chink of cups and saucers turns the mind to happy repose”
John was the perfect host of making sure that the tea sandwiches, savories, scones, refill of tea leaves were replenished without delay. He filled the jars with clotted cream in profuse abandon, teamed with a container of strawberry jam. Tiny porcelain containers carved with various flower designs on its lid were filled with mint candies as an aperitif and were given out as feminine guest tokens. They complimented the flower designs of the teapots and cups.
The soon-to-be Mrs. Perkins came dressed daintily in silky fibered ivory tea attire with a feathered fascinator tipping her lovely head. Walking in, she was excitedly welcomed with the rush for pictures taken by Benel: “For Facebook,” she said. (From left: Jannelle; flower girl Clarissa Simone So; Mother of Bride Leny So; Tess Mangalindan; Chris Feleo-So; Rocio Nuyda; Leslie Paugh)
Through the seasons, through the years, it’s your friends who carry you through. What better way to celebrate the warmth and intimacy of beautiful friendship than with the warmest and most intimate of celebrations – a tea. Jannelle’s friends (from left John Mina, Benel Liban, Jannelle, Rocio Nuyda, Josie Castro) gathered on this one glorious afternoon in June to wish her well and send her off to the next journey of her life. A bridal shower it was, but it was more than that…it was an expression of love in this, the most genteel way, over a cup of tea. Photos by Josie Castro & Luchie Allen
Though physically absent, Lester “attended” the affair with his photo plastered on the wall, for a game- “Pin the mustache on Lester’s face,” which the little girls eagerly played. (From left: Jannelle’s nieces Sophie, Mikey, Trisha, Simone, Hailey.) Also a winner was Chris (left) who bagged the best hat award; while Sandy Welsh won the most creative hat, with her original hat that was decorated with photos of Jannelle and Lester.
I have long been fascinated by the art of pouring tea. Over the years I have collected the finest of bone china cups, saucers and teapots. I seldom go through the ceremony of tea, but when I do it is for a very special moment.
In this vein, I, along with dear friends John Mina, Josie Castro and Benel Liban hosted an afternoon tea for our bride-to-be, Jannelle So. In an attempt to portray the worlds of Jannelle, a Filipina and her fiancé, Lester, a British national; the hosts conceptualized to celebrate her forthcoming marriage by infusing the Filipino guests into the most symbolic of all traditions, the “Britishness” of an afternoon tea.
Josie was the designated tea pourer; and she did so with graceful aplomb. Well, maybe except during an unguarded moment, when Benel asked for more tea. Momentarily forgetting the setting, she yelled back: “What?” Queen Catharine would have cringed, but the guests found this to be amusing and delightful.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
29
HEALTH & BEAUTY
A bad night’s sleep is just as unhealthy as sleep deprivation: study (Relaxnews) – In a first of its kind study, researchers at Tel Aviv University’s School of Psychological Sciences established a causal link between interrupted sleep and compromised cognition, attention span and humor, concluding that interrupted sleep is roughly equivalent to four hours of consecutive sleep. According to study author Dr. Avi Sadeh, who directs a sleep clinic at TAU, previous studies have established an association between night waking and the aforementioned negative consequences, but his is the first to establish a causal link. The sleep patterns of 61 healthy adultsin the study, 40 of which were females between the ages of 20 and 29 years old, were traced at their homes using actigraphy and sleep diaries. Self-reporting was the method used to assess mood and participants were asked to perform computer tasks to assess cognitive abilities and attention span. Participants were assessed after both a normal (control) night’s sleep and after a night during which sleep was either restricted to four hours or interrupted four times over the course of eight hours in bed. Interruptions were designed to keep
participants awake for a period of 10 to 15 minutes. While researchers found few significant differences between interrupted sleep and sleep deprivation, the differences between the aforementioned conditions and a normal night’s sleep were vast. Results indicate an increase in depression, fatigue and confusion in addition to diminished vigor and motivation when sleep is interrupted or restricted. “Our study shows the impact of only one disrupted night,” says Dr. Sadeh. “But we know that these effects accumulate and therefore the functional price new parents – who awaken three to ten times a night for months on end – pay for common infant sleep disturbance is enormous.” Dr. Sadeh is already at work on further research on how to reduce the negative consequences of night wakings for parents of infants. In an interview, he added that sleep research has been largely concentrated on the deprivation side over the past 50 years and not enough has been done to examine the effects of sleep interruption. His study was published in the journal Sleep Medicine.
Study identifies behaviors that cause insomnia (Relaxnews) – In a first-of-its-kind study, researchers at the American Academy of Sleep Medicine explored the pathway that leads to short-term insomnia disorder after stressful events. According to the study, dangerous coping mechanisms that could lead to insomnia include disengaging without confronting the stressor, turning to drugs and alcohol, and using media as a means of distraction. “Our study is among the first to show that it’s not the number of stressors, but your reaction to them that determines the likelihood of experiencing insomnia,” says lead author Vivek Pillai, PhD, research fellow at the Sleep Disorders & Research Center at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, Michigan. “While a stressful event can lead to a bad night of sleep, it’s what you do in response to stress that can be the difference between a few bad nights and chronic insomnia.” Nearly 3,000 subjects with no history of insomnia were interviewed about their coping mechanisms and asked to communicate their perception of the stressful situations in their lives. One year later, those with short term insomnia disorder were identified as having the corresponding, aforementioned reactions to stress, although researchers were also able to identify potential solutions to help circumvent insomnia during
hard times. “Though we may not be able to control external events, we can reduce their burden by staying away from certain maladaptive behaviors,” says Pillai. According to researchers, mindfulnessbased therapies seem able to help suppress the “mental chatter” that inhibits the onset of sleep. “This study is an important reminder that stressful events and other major life changes often cause insomnia,” said American Academy of Sleep Medicine President Dr. Timothy Morgenthaler. “If you are feeling overwhelmed by events in your life, talk to your doctor about strategies to reduce your stress level and improve your sleep.” Short term insomnia disorder is identified as being unable to sleep at least three nights per week during a timeframe of less than three months. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, it occurs in 15 to 20 percent of adults and is more likely to occur in women than in men. Meanwhile a review of scientific studies earlier this year published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that mindfulness meditation could provide slight relief from anxiety and depression in certain individuals. The study on stress and insomnia was published in the journal SLEEP.
FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION VISIT OUR WEBSITE
A new sleep study is thought to have identified what sort of reactions to stress cause insomnia. ©l i g h t p o e t/shutterstock.com
30
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
JOB MARKET For advertising, call (818) 552-4503
BOOKKEEPER Import and Wholesale company is looking for a Bookkeeper P/T or F/T. E-mail resume to: jobs.umg@gmail.com
LIVE-IN BABYSITTER For 3 kids, help for cleaning & cooking. 6 Days a week. House in Woodland Hills. Experience required. Please contact 818-921-0807.
Balita GET RESULTS! ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY!
CAREGIVERS Female / male. Couple ok. Must speak English. For board and care for San Fernando Valley area. Fulltime, live-in. Call 818-6101082. CAREGIVER Live-in caregiver for board and care. Call Doug (562) 688-6820
FACILITY CAREGIVERS Wanted immediately! Fulltime. 2770 Highgate Pl. Simi Valley, CA 93065 w/ or w/out experience w/ valid working status only. 1-888237-5945; 805-582-2188 for apmnt, application & personal interview
402
•
Fax (818) 550-7635
IMMEDIATE HIRE Live-in caregivers needed for Board & Care facility in Woodland Hills. Please call (818) 288-5406. CAREGIVERS Live-in/out. For assisted living homes in West Side. Call Dimitri (310) 367-0104 or (310) 392-9196. CAREGIVERS NEEDED We are in need of male or female live-in caregivers. New facility located LA. Pakitawagan po si Sherryl 714-600-5434.
WANTED CAREGIVERS From $16/hr to $20/hr. Livein, live-out options. Areas: West LA, Beverly Hills, Orange County. Call 818742-8764; 818-310-2121 Fax resume: 626-430-6483 MALE CAREGIVERS Needed for DD facility. Baldwin Park area. Call Boyette 626-354-9876.
RELIEVERS NEEDED Two relievers needed ASAP for 6 bed board and care. Rancho Palos Verdes. Room / meals included. 310-560-6444.
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.
•
WANTED CAREGIVER Live-in female caregivers for elderly B&C in Chatsworth. Know how to cook. Will train to medication. W/ or w/out exp. Responsible, trustworthy, hardworking, reliable & nice attitude. 818-987-5223.
email: advertising@balita.com
LIVE-IN CAREGIVER For board and care in Cerritos. Experience a plus but not necessary. Cindy 562-809-3453, Jo 562404-6199; 562-881-3602; 562-860-3666 message.
FEMALE CAREGIVER Live-in. Established elderly facility 25+ yrs. F/T or P/T, loc in High Desert. May sponsor quali¿ed person. Respectful & good work place. 909-257-1328.
CAREGIVERS/DIETICIAN Part Time / Full Time. Driving is an advantage. San Fernando Valley & LA. Text or leave a message. (818) 534-7866.
CAREGIVER LIVE-IN O r a n g e C o u n t y, g o o d working environment. Will train. Call (562) 598-2777 leave message.
LIVE-IN CAREGIVER Looking for live-in caregiver in a beautiful home, and provide caregiving duties for the elderly. Must cook and clean. Free rent and meals. 6 Residents facility in Thousand Oaks. Call 805-207-7791.
MAG TAYO VISIT OUR WEBSITE
www.usasianpost.com
CIVIL ENGINEER (1-2 yrs CAD exp. 3D) CIVIL ENGINEER (Laboratory Technician) ACCOUNTANT/BOOKEEPER (Quickbooks a must) FT/PT EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT CUSTOMER SERVICE REPRESENTATIVE PRODUCTION MANAGER (Garment Industry) RN, LVN, PT and other Medical Professionals
(Nevada, Arizona, Colorado)
8. PHYSICAL THERAPIST
Some Companies are willing to sponsor
Send resume or fax to: Career Mgmt & Professional Services alfonso@cmps-usa.com 1010 N. Central, Glendale CA 91202 or maria.cmps@yahoo.com 747-888-7779 cell (Alfonso "Chito") 818-590-7750 cell (Lourdes "Kit") Fax 818-230-1913
YOUR AD
HERE!
CALL 818-552-4503
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
31
CLASSIFIED ADS TEL.: (818) 552-4503 ext 402
•
Fax: (818) 550-7635
•
MAJOR CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED
HOW TO SEND US JAY D” PLUMBERHANDYMAN Plumbing repair, drain cleaning, copper repipe, bath & kitchen, remodel hydro jetter, toilet, disposal, heating water heater, iron works, electrical & carpentry. Free estimate. (818) 730-6571
APT. FOR RENT Move-in special. 1 BR, laundry, covered parking. Close to freeways and schools. 137 N. Rosemont Avenue (between Beverly & Temple), Los Angeles. Manager: Mercy (213) 4835117.
APT. FOR RENT Hollywood. 1 BR $1,100; Single $900 brand new hardwood Àr, intercom entry, a/c, TFC cable ready, gated parking, pool, near Sunset & Wilcox, no pets. Manager speak Tagalog. (323) 462-3573.
APTS. FOR RENT Mid-Wilshire- 322 N. Oxford Ave 1 BR 1 BA $1,095, a/c, new paint, carpet, w/ parking. City of Arcadia- 1031 W. Duarte Rd. near 99 Ranch 2BR, 1BA $1,295, w/ parking a/c, woodÀr.. Filipino mngr. 626-795-7888.
APT. FOR RENT Eagle Rock, large 2 BR 1 BA in newer 9-unit bldg. new carpet, $1250. Quiet neighborhood, close to school, shopping, transpo, sec gate, 2 pkng. 2321 Ridgeview Ave. David (818) 809-8166 APT. FOR RENT 2 BR 1 BA w/ parking $1,200. Laundry, gated. Available by July 20. Bonnie Brae x St. Beverly Blvd. Call/text (951) 333-2457 or (951) 333-2505. ROOM -NORTH HILLS $600/mo. W/ own bath, furnished, free utilities, cable & internet. Near Seafood market Nordhoff branch. Welcome students, caregivers & single female. Call after 3pm (818) 693-1358.
MALE BEDSPACER $325. Panorama City. Close to WalMart, Island Paci¿c, Food4Less & bus line. Month to month. Call 818-205-8655. ROOM AVAIL. Female only. Alvarado area between Temple & Beverly Blvd. Near bus stop. Near Filipino restaurant. Gated. Please call 626-991-8336. Salamat po.
W. VAN NUYS - ROOM Nice neighborhood, w/ swimming pool. Very accessible to bus line, free utils. Female pref'd. No pets & no smoking. (818) 635-1477 or (818) 7573671 or lv msg.
COMPUTER REPAIR
*
For a flat fee of
I will make your computer working again, fast andd virus-free, f install new parts or even upgrade your computer software (if applicable). Desktop or laptop, I'll find out why your computer is malfunctioning and fix it right away!
*
LA Desktop & Laptop Services
Call us at (818) 823-5388 Email us: LAComputerShop@yahoo.com
BY E-MAIL editor@balita.com Press releases should include your signature, full name and complete address (as well as telephone number). Letters that do not meet these requirements will not be used. All contributions are subject to editorial standards. Articles are printed subject to space availability and at no cost to the sender.
The Editor
ROOMMATE Preferably single female. 14670 Roscoe Blvd. Apt. 35 Panorama City. $300/ mo. including utils & 1 bed. Call Linda home (818) 8921279 cel. (818) 472-2083
Got virus? Is your computer so sloooowww; has a blue screen; the videos are not playing; or your Internet's not working? p Is there something wrong with your computer?
I WILL Fix IT
PRESS RELEASES
Mag
Tayo!
(* DrŽƉ Kī KŶůy͘ >ĂďŽƌ ŽŶůLJ ƉĞƌ ƵŶŝƚ͕ ŚĂrdwarĞ ĂŶĚ ŽƚŚĞƌ ƉĂƌƚƐ ĂrĞ ĐŚĂrŐĞĚ ƐĞƉĂraƚĞůy͘ ĚĚŝƟŽŶĂů ĐŚĂrŐĞƐ ŵaLJ ĂƉƉůy.)
FIGHTING ANIMAL TESTING
PRAYERS
PRAYERS
PRAYERS
PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for everything and con¿rm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how dif¿cult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted. Grateful Thanks -G.R
NOVENA TO ST. CLARE
PRAYER to the BLESSED VIRGIN
Ask St. Clare for 3 favors: One Business, Two Impossible. "Say 9
Oh most beautiful Àower of Mt. Carmel, fruit wine splendor of Heaven. Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. Oh Star of the Sea. Help me and show me here you are my Mother. Oh Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart to succour me in my necessity. (make request). There are none that can withstand your power. Oh Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee (3 times). Holy Mary, I place this prayer in your hands (3 times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. Thank you Blessed Virgin. -J.L
(Never known to fail)
Hail Mary's for 9 days with lighted candles" Pray whether you believe it or not. Publish, on the 9th day. "May the Sacred Heart of Jesus Be Praised, Adored, and Glori¿ed Today and Everyday" Request will be granted no matter how impossible it seems. Publication must be promised. -YOKO
INSTRUCTIONS ON HOW TO PLACE CLASSIFIED/JOB MARKET ADS
BY PHONE
BY FAX
818-552-4503
818-550-7635
Please have this information ready: Company Name, Contact Person, Address, Phone # and Fax #. Payment is made using a credit card.
Faxed ads should include this information: Company Name, Contact Person, Address, Phone # and Fax #. Payment is made using a credit card.
BY SNAIL MAIL OR E-MAIL 520 East Wilson Ave. Ste. 210 Glendale, CA 91206
advertising@balita.com
Check or Money Order should be made payable to Balita Media Inc.
32
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
COMMUNITY Asians, Pacific Islanders Orange County’s fastest growing populations Asian American, Pacific Islander communities also home to increasing number of invisible poor ORANGE COUNTY, CA – Already home to the third-largest Asian American population in the United States, Orange County’s Asian American and Pacific Islander populations are its fastest growing according to a new report released today by Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Orange County and the Orange County Asian and Pacific Islander Community Alliance (OCAPICA). Titled A Community of Contrasts: Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders in Orange County, the report also notes that Asian Americans are experiencing dramatic growth in the number who are unemployed and poor. While Asian American and Pacific Islander-owned business in Orange County have created over 96,000 jobs and stimulated economic growth, U.S. Census Bureau data also show that the number of unemployed Asian Americans countywide grew 123% from 2007 to 2011. The number of Asian Americans living in poverty increased 51% over the same period. “Some see our communities as model minorities, yet these data show that the county’s Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have been hurt by the economic crisis and have real needs,” said Mary Anne Foo, executive director of the OCAPICA. “Many of us are struggling, yet remain invisible to policy makers.” The report finds that Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders (NHPI) in Orange County face particular challenges. Data from the California Department of Education show that NHPI students are both less likely to graduate from high school and to
have completed the required courses for college admission. Among adults, only Latinos are less likely than Samoan Americans to have a college degree. Data from the California Department of Public Health show that NHPI have a death rate higher than all other racial groups countywide. “This report shows that education and health are critical issues in Pacific Islander communities,” said Tana Lepule, executive director of Empowering Pacific Islander Communities (EPIC). “Without access to data on Pacific Islanders separate from Asian Americans, we wouldn’t be able to demonstrate our communities’ considerable needs.” According to the 2010 Census, there are nearly 600,000 Asian Americans and over 19,000 NHPI living in Orange County; only Los Angeles and Santa Clara Counties are home to more Asian Americans nationwide. One out of every five residents countywide is Asian American or NHPI. Between 2000 and 2010, Asian American and NHPI populations in Orange County grew 41% and 17%, respectively, faster than any other racial groups. In contrast, the county’s total population grew only 6% over the same period. “Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in Orange County have reached a critical mass,” said Stewart Kwoh, president and executive director of Asian Americans Advancing Justice - Los Angeles and its satellite office in Orange County. “Policy makers must address our growing needs as we become increasingly engaged in the political process.”
Record numbers of Asian Americans and NHPI in Orange County are registering to vote and casting ballots; nearly 230,000 Asian Americans were registered to vote countywide as of the 2012 General Election. While Asian Americans made up 14% of the county’s voters during that election, they make up 25% or more of those old enough to vote in several legislative districts, including State Assembly Districts 72, 55, and 65, State Senate District 29, and Congressional District 39. Asian Americans Advancing Justice Los Angeles is the nation’s largest Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) legal and civil rights organization and serves more than 15,000
individuals and organizations every year. Founded in 1983 as the Asian Pacific American Legal Center, Advancing Justice - LA’s mission is to advocate for civil rights, provide legal services and education, and build coalitions to positively influence and impact Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and to create a more equitable and harmonious society. Through direct legal services, impact litigation, policy analysis and advocacy, leadership development and capacity building, Advancing Justice - LA seeks to serve the most vulnerable members of the AANHPI community while also building a strong AANHPI voice for civil rights and social justice.
Obama seeks $3.7-B to stem illegal border entries By Michael Mathes
WASHINGTON, July 8, 2014 (AFP) – President Barack Obama on Tuesday requested $3.7 billion in emergency funding from Congress to help cope with a surge of unaccompanied child immigrants from Central America. Obama said the funds, far higher than the president signaled he would request late last month, would help ease an “urgent humanitarian situation” that has seen tens of thousands of minors from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras illegally cross the southern US border this year. To stem the flow, the administration seeks to beef up border security with aerial surveillance, improve housing for the undocumented arrivals and speed up their deportations. The appropriation would go to several US government agencies and fund an increase in immigration judges, asylum officers and border agents, expand court capacity, and add detention facilities, the officials said. A main goal is to speed up turnaround times for deportations, with one White House official saying “we are prioritizing recent border crossers.” Obama, in a letter to House Speaker John Boehner, urged Congress to “act expeditiously.” He said the funds, in addition to strengthening border security, would help cover “the operational costs of responding to the significant rise in apprehensions of unaccompanied children and adults travelling with children, and expenses associated with the appropriate care for those apprehended.” The funds would also expand the government’s Alternatives to Detention program through increased use of ankle bracelets that would allow migrants to stay with relatives instead of in overcrowded, expensive detention facilities while their cases are being processed. “We are taking an aggressive approach on both sides of the border,” a White House official told reporters, referring to US efforts to coordinate with Mexican and Central American authorities to prevent migrants from taking the perilous journey to the United States, often with dangerous human traffickers. “We are taking steps to both protect due process but also to remove these migrants efficiently,” said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity. A first congressional hearing on the
emergency request will occur Thursday before the Senate Appropriations Committee, where Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Jeh Johnson is scheduled to testify. Johnson was in Guatemala Tuesday to discuss efforts to reduce illegal immigration. Obama travels to Texas on Tuesday. He will not visit the border region, but he has invited Governor Rick Perry to meet with him in Dallas to discuss the immigration crisis. Under the plan, DHS will receive $1.5 billion, including $116 million to pay for transporting migrants back to their home countries. The Department of Health and Human Services will be allocated $1.8 billion, mostly to provide care for unaccompanied child migrants. The State Department will receive $300 million to repatriate Central American migrants, address the underlying causes driving migration, and launch media campaigns emphasizing that illegal immigrants will not be allowed to stay in the United States. The plan is not a done deal, especially in a divided Congress. But the White House officials said they were confident that the emergency request would be taken up in a “spirit of bipartisanship.” Boehner’s office said the border crisis working group he appointed will review the proposal. “The speaker still supports deploying the National Guard to provide humanitarian support in the affected areas—which this proposal does not address,” a Boehner spokesman said. The hefty cost may be a sticking point, especially for Republicans loath to approve major spending projects in an election year. Immigration has exploded into a flashpoint issue. Protesters in a small California town, home to a US Border Patrol facility for detained migrants, last week blocked three buses transporting migrant women and children. According to the White House, Immigration and Customs Enforcement has deported some 233,000 people in fiscal year 2014, including 87,000 from Central American countries. Since last October, more than 52,000 unaccompanied child migrants, two thirds of them from Central America have crossed illegally into the United States, US officials said.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
33
Filipinos have positive views on US better than Americans There are about 3.4 million people of Filipino descent in the United States which comprises 1.1 % of the U.S. population. The Filipino-American group is the country’s second largest self-reported Asian ancestry after Chinese-Americans. Filipinos in North America were first documented in the 16th century, with small settlements beginning in the 18th century. Mass migration to the US began in the early 20th Century when the Philippines was ceded by Spain to the U.S. in 1898 under the that “the Filipinos like the US a lot” with Treaty of Paris. Philippine independence 85% of those polled having a more “favorwas recognized by the United States on able view of the American people”. July 4, 1946. Americans surveyed came second at July 4 was observed in the Philippines 84% saying they have a “favorable view as Independence Day until August 4,1964 of themselves”. when President Diosdado Macapagal Overall, the Philippines had the most signed into law Republic Act No. 4166 “favorable “view of the US followed by designating June 12 as the country’s Israel and Ghana. Americans did not figure Independence Day upon the advice of in the top 3 countries with a “favorable” historians and the urging of nationalists. view of the US. June 12 had previously been observed as The data has been sourced from the Flag Day. 2013 incarnation of the Global Attitudes Immigration reform of the 60’s saw an Project on “attitudes towards the US” conexodus of Filipinos to the U.S. attracted by ducted by the Pew Global Attitude Survey “the American Dream and the opportuni- which was launched in 2002. ties that await them”. Significant populaThe survey question went: “Please tell tions of Filipino Americans can be found if you have a very favorable, somewhat in California, Hawaii, Greater New York, favorable, somewhat unfavorable or very Illinois and Texas. unfavorable opinion of Americans.” It has been generations ago when the The Project has also conducted a series Exodus to the “Promised Land” took place. of worldwide public opinion surveys that Has there been a significant change of encompasses a broad array of subjects perspectives about the U.S.? which include people’s assessments of Filipinos responding to a survey show their own lives to their views about the more positive views on the US, Americans, current state of the world and important and US Presidents better than Americans issues of the day. themselves. Most Filipinos who participated in the Culled from data from the Pew Re- survey “seemed to think the US puts a search Center’s Global Attitudes Project , premium on the interest of the Philippines where surveys are conducted by telephone when it comes to international policy”. or face-to-face and where national surveys Filipinos described the US’ consideration are representative of the entire population of the Philippine interest to be a “great of a given country), the research showed deal/fair amount” with around 85% of
Youngest Philippine Governor: Camarines Sur Gov. Miguel Luis “Migz” Villafuerte, youngest ever governor of the Philippines and a third-generation Villafuerte, continues his family legacy of public service in the province made world famous as the location (in Caramoan) of popular TV series “Survivor”. He was in California for a short visit recently and is shown here with his uncle/mentor, OC realtor Nick Enciso. Villafuerte is a graduate of University of San Diego.
FOR MORE NEWS AND INFORMATION VISIT
balita.com
NOW AVAILABLE! Balita Digital Copy
Channel Islands Attraction: Fil-Ams are reminded of the seaside activities in their mother country and view with amusement as local fisher-folks unload their harvest of sea urchins in the Channel Islands of Oxnard City, a favorite go to spot specially on long weekends. Filipinos maintain their deep regards for their adopted country over the years which “represents a culmination of their American dreams” and have embraced the local culture as their own.
them in agreement. On the way things are going in the Philippines, the same Philippine respondents admitted than the US had a “great deal/ fair amount of influence”. Of those surveyed, 84% “had confidence in President Barack Obama as well as with former US President George W. Bush. The Americans, however, had a different view with “only 57% of Americans surveyed said they had confidence in their own president”. The Philippines followed Germany in expressing “the most confidence in US leadership”. France, Kenya and Canada are in the group confident of US leadership also. The Philippines was included among the Top 3 countries that expressed the highest approval of Obama’s international policies at 76% with Germany and France
answering “approve” at 88% and 81%, respectively. Moreover, the Filipinos surveyed are confident that “China will never replace the US as the world’s leading power at 74%. Japan, at 72% is also confident that “China will not be able to take over US. The Philippines and Japan look to the US as an ally in territorial disputes with China. It did not come as a surprise that 81% of the Filipinos surveyed view US as a “partner” of the Philippines. The Filipinos only showed disapproval over the US’ use of drones “to target extremists in countries like Pakistan, Yemen and Somalia” with 52% of the respondent against it. “Over 325,000 interviews in 60 countries have been conducted” to create the Global Attitudes database” according to the Pew Research
34
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Are you facing financial stress and anxiety? As we continue to go through turbulent economic times, a lot of people are in a state of panic and anxiety. Thousands of families are overwhelmed with the difficult choices and situations that they face. The questions that I am often asked are: “Will my family’s increasing debt load result in bankruptcy?” “What happens if I lose my home in foreclosure?” Most people are living paycheck to paycheck with zero savings and they barely have enough to put food on the table and keep the lights on. the future until you find a way to get out Personal debt from mortgages, credit of debt and start saving again. Personcards and other loans has surged and a ally, I’ve seen even close friends and lot of people have borrowed more than relatives go through the agony of losing they can pay back. Are you one of these their homes in foreclosure so I know how people? Maybe you have been using your you feel. Some people are so paralyzed credit cards just to survive, hoping that with fear that they end up doing nothing things will turn around soon. But even to change their situation. credit card companies these days are no One thing you can do is to find a way longer lending money as they used to. to reduce or eliminate your debts so that They are reducing credit lines and closing you can have more money available for inactive accounts to reduce their risks. basic necessities. Experts predict that it A few years ago, people used to be able may take a while for the economy to get to refinance their mortgage and cash out better so this is certainly not a good time their home equity every time they needed to be in debt. Continuing to borrow when the extra cash to keep them afloat. But you’re already overextended will only those days are gone and we probably lead to financial disaster; it’s only a matwon’t see them again for a long while. ter of time before you face the inevitable The average household now owes consequences. Avoid buying anything on approximately $25,800 in credit cards. credit unless it’s an absolute necessity. Studies show that 65% of all credit card If cash flow is negative, another thing accounts are only paid the minimum re- you can do is to learn how to prioritize quired every month. And of course, you your debts while finding ways to increase know what that means. As long as you income or reduce expenses. If you can’t are only paying the minimum required pay your bills and you need to choose on your credit cards, you are guaranteed between paying for your car or your credit to remain in debt for a very long time- cards, who do you pay first? I think it’s perhaps for the rest of your life. fairly obvious that if you lose your car So how do you protect yourself and (as in this example), you won’t be able to your family in the midst of this financial work and keep your job that pays the bills. turmoil? If you are in debt, perhaps you’re Unfortunately, people who are stressed See BULAON, page 35 feeling as though you have no hope for
Now in the USA! SMART World Mobile offers the following: Thousands of Filipino Americans are now enjoying the newest uniquely Filipino mobile service in the US -- SMART World Mobile. Proudly brought to America by PLDT US Mobility, SMART WORLD Mobile is the smartest way to stay in touch with your loved ones in the US and in the Philippines with unlimited domestic calls, text and data. In partnership with T-Mobile, SMART offers superior network coverage, both in the US and in the Philippines.
• No contract, pre-paid service • 2 numbers in 1 SIM – a US and a PH number • Loved ones who are SMART, Sun, Talk & Text, and PLDT subscribers in the Philippines can call and text you at Philippine local rates (currently P1.00 per text and P6.50 per call per minute) • Up to 30 minutes of FREE calls to the Philippines every month • Up to 240 FREE text messages to the Philippines every month • 50% rebate on base plan subscriptions every 3rd month and more Subscribers can choose one of three monthly inexpensive base plans: (1) $25 base plan - 300 minutes local calls, 300 local text messages and 250 MB data (2) $45 base plan - UNLIMITED local calls, UNLIMITED local text messages and 1 GB high speed data (3) $55 base plan - UNLIMITED local calls, local text messages and UNLIMITED data During the introductory period, SMART World Mobile gives FREE SIM Cards to new subscribers which can be used with unlocked phones. Available in Seafood City and local Fil-Am stores, SMART World Mobile also offers affordable handsets for those who don’t have unlocked phones. For more information, visit www.smartworldmobile.com or call 1 (888)-278- 6587 (toll-free).
www.smartworldmobile.com
SMARTWORLDMOBILE
SMARTWorld_US Proudly brought to you by
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Is the Real Estate market really doing well? There is a strange gap that is happening now with our economy and the real estate market is showing sign of it as well. It is the divide between high end or the “Rich” and the gap toward the “Poor”. The spread between the two are widening by way of income level, there are more and more lower income people now living in poverty levels compared to before and there are obvious signs that there are more millionaires. Therefore concluding that there is a shrinking middle income class of Americans. The signs are has proven that buying a home is your everywhere in the real estate market too. “American Dream” because when it apOn approved thru TFS, onyou will be able to More and more homeowners are buying preciate thatcredit is where New 2013 & New 2014 select models! up multimillion dollar homes, builders take your equity out to buy a new car, are shifting their target customers towards for your child’s education, to use for the high end buyers and the real estate your move up down payment for a bigger sales for multimillion dollar homes are home, your equity loan cash out to pay for booming! your debts and student loans. Building This is my observation and please tell your equity from your first home has the me if you don’t see it. That first Time biggest chance of success compared to buyers are having a difficult time buying your 401k especially now where we don’t and getting their offers accepted for mul- even have enough money to put aside. tiple reasons. For one, fewer homebuyers This brings me to relay to my old can afford to buy due to home prices going message about how we are still stuck in up in value and the obvious sign of strin- level 1 not able to move up a notch in the gent lending guidelines that are hindering viscous cycle of American way of living. the ability of buyers to get qualified. Our wheels are spinning but not catchSecondly, move up sellers are not selling ing on to the next grid to advance to the their older homes to buy bigger and newer next level. We are just going in circle and homes. Usually home owners that are not ascending to the next level. Work, in the startup level normally would be work and work! When is this going to upgrading to a bigger home or a home in change, I blame the government policies a better location but they are not confident that are discouraging business to expand with the economy. They are not sure about and increase their work force. More their job stability. These home owners regulations more redundant policies are also might be very comfortable with their restricting growth in the business sector, low mortgage interest that they had just which alternatively will stop creating refinanced to fixed mortgage rates below jobs, good jobs. The American way now 3.5% . So, do you blame them for wanting is if someone or some group complains to stay put and not do anything? about something, the government (The Well a lot of home improvements and Law- back to western cowboy mentalupgrading going on, your handy man and ity) steps in and starts to make changes, small time contractors should be very make new policies. It’s a good thing but busy everywhere, you can hardly get when it is done over the top, it will create anyone on the phone lately. > So far if I major problems going into the future. I am on the right track the move up sellers hope that lenders will start to ease up on are not buying the mid range homes in the guidelines, lenders also need to increase 400-700’s range and therefore the home some loan limits in some areas like San prices from upper low end and midrange Bernadino and Riverside. The loan limits are at a complete stand still. are so low, that sellers and home builders Investor have taken a step back in can’t sell their homes higher in price for buying homes Investors are having a first time buyers to come in. hard time making sense of buying some My conclusion now is still buying an of these homes to rent out or flip due to affordable home is still a better way to prices going up about 20% since last year. achieve your American Dream. Thanks If builders are not building affordable for your sincere inquiries. Please call Ken homes and the housing inventory remains Go of 1st Innovative Finance for your low. This will trickle down to the low end Mortgage needs and Real Estate concerns. tier of Americans not able to buy homes Call Ken at 562-508-7048 or write to Kento bank on future appreciation. History nethgo@verizon.net.
0
% APR
FINANCING
BULAON From page 34
with debt problems can’t even think straight. They lose track of what should matter most to them and they can’t even trust their own judgment. If you are stressed with debt problems, you may need professional help in finding a solution. For a free consultation, call Toll-Free 1-866-477-7772. We have offices in Pasadena, Cerritos and Valencia.
(None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped over 5,000 clients in getting out of debt. For a free attorney evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866477-7772).
Vigan makes top 21 finalists for New7 Wonders Cities of the World Los Angeles, 10 July 2014 – Vigan, the Heritage City makes it to Top 21 Official finalist in the search for New 7 Wonders Cities of the World. Vigan is the only city in the Philippines that has been chosen for this prestigious search, giving our country and the Filipino people pride and honor. The 21 Official Finalists that have been voted through to the next round of the New7Wonders Cities campaign are: Bangkok, Barcelona, Beirut, Chicago, Doha, Durban, Havana, Istanbul, Kuala Lumpur, La Paz, London, Mendoza, Mexico City, Mumbai, Perth, Quito, Reykjavik, Saint Petersburg, Seoul, Shenzhen and Vigan.
BAN ANIMAL TESTING
Visit www.Balita.com
35
36
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
SPORTS
Quotes on Lebron returning to Cavs CLEVELAND, July 11, 2014 (AFP) – Quotes after LeBron James said Friday that he was leaving the Miami Heat to return to the Cleveland Cavaliers: “I’m ready to accept the challenge. I’m coming home. – LeBron James at the end of his essay on Sports Illustrated’s website announcing he would leave the Miami heat and rejoin the Cavaliers. “My 8-year-old: “Daddy, does this mean I can finally wear my Lebron jersey, again?”...Yes it does, son. Yes it does!”
– Cleveland Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert on Twitter. “I am shocked & disappointed in today’s news. However I will never forget what Lebron brought us for 4 years. Thanks for memories @KingJames” – Miami Heat owner Micky Arison on Twitter. “Welcome back bro. Your city awaits you” – Cleveland Cavaliers power forward Tristan Thompson. “How many Miami fans are there in
this world that are now Cleveland fans?” – Michael Carter-Williams, Philadelphia 76ers guard, on Twitter. “YESSSSSSSS!! Couldn’t be happier for my guy @KingJames and the @cavs” – Johnny Manziel, rookie quarterback for the NFL Cleveland Browns. “It’s an absolutely great time to be a CLE sports fan. Welcome home, @ KingJames!” – Major League Baseball’s Cleveland Indians. “I guess my recruiting skills didn’t work...
That’s bad though... How they’re gonna hate when you leave and now love you?? These fans ain’t loyal except my fans,” – Joel Embiid, Philadelphia 76ers center. “This decision is a great decision for him because he is following his heart and he loves his home.” – US Olympic basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, who has coached James on two gold medal squads. “Good luck @KingJames #Cleveland” – Pop star Justin Bieber.
Beaten Giants fan awarded $18-M in damages
Messi on target to match Maradona
LOS ANGELES, July 9, 2014 (AFP) – A Major League Baseball fan who was beaten into a coma outside Dodgers Stadium three years ago and left with permanent brain damage was awarded about $18 million in damages on Wednesday. The Los Angeles Superior Court jury awarded the payout to Bryan Stow after the savage attack by two LA Dodgers fans that left the San Francisco Giants supporter seriously injured. But the panel found the Dodgers were only 25 percent responsible for the attack that Stow blamed on inadequate security at the stadium. The jury also exonerated former Dodgers owner Frank McCourt of any culpability. Stow’s lawyer Thomas Girardi said Los Angeles Dodgers LLC, the company created by McCourt when he owned the team, will have to pay Stow about $14 million
SAO PAULO, July 9, 2014 (AFP) – Lionel Messi kept running into a determined Dutch defensive wall on Wednesday but Argentina are still in the World Cup final and the little genius will get his chance to emulate Diego Maradona. A disciplined defensive display by the Netherlands ensured that the tense Sao Paolo semi-final was dragged into a penalty shootout that Argentina won 4-2 to set up a date with Germany at the Maracana stadium on Sunday. Messi confidently dispatched Argentina’s first spot-kick, but before that he offered little, his enthusiasm dulled by the man-marking he was subjected to for the first hour by Nigel de Jong. If Messi can match Maradona and captain Argentina to World Cup glory this will be remembered as his tournament – even more satisfactory on the territory of rival Brazil. But it was not his semi-final on a dreary and cold evening at the Corinthians Arena. The Barcelona man was pivotal in taking Alejandro Sabella’s side to this stage, with his match-winning performances in Group F wins over Bosnia-Hercegovina, Iran and Nigeria. In the last 16, penalties loomed against Switzerland when his jinking run late in extra time set up the winning goal for Angel di Maria, and he helped set up Gonzalo Higuain’s quarter-final clincher against Belgium too. But here, the tactical cunning of Netherlands coach Louis van Gaal snuffed out Messi’s threat and ensured that this match became the first World Cup semifinal ever to end 0-0.
for past and future medical expenses and loss of earnings. The company will pay 25 percent of the remaining roughly $4 million for pain and suffering. “So this is a nice nest egg for this family, desperately needed,” Girardi said. “The law has done some good for them.” The six-man, six-woman jury assigned the remainder of the blame for Stow’s injuries on Louie Sanchez and Marvin Norwood, the two men who attacked Stow in the parking lot in March 2011. Jurors also found that Stow bore no responsibility in the attack, despite claims by lawyers for McCourt and the Dodgers that he had been drinking and provoked his attackers. The verdict was reached one week after the jury declared itself to be deadlocked. Judge Victor Chavez then ordered them to continue talking.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
37
38
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
MOTORING
Gone in sixty seconds: Americans take home a Camry every minute in May Visit Toyota of Glendale’s Filipino Department and find out from kababayans Richard, Cecille and Kay why Camry is America’s best-selling car TORRANCE, Calif. (June 9, 2014) – On average, Americans drove away in a new Camry every minute in the month of May. Nearly 50,000 owners placed their trust in Camry’s safety, reliability and long-term value. “There’s a reason Americans choose Camry, and it shows in sales month after month,” said Bob Carter, vice president of automotive operations for Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. “It’s America’s bestselling car, but more important is the one Camry in the customer’s driveway. The one Camry that gets you and your family
The new Toyota Camry
to work, school, vacation, the Camry that works in a business enterprise, the one Camry you trust to be reliable and help keep your family safe.” Recently, Camry’s quality was affirmed by top honors in the JD Power and Associates IQS and VDS studies. It was also awarded a 5-star safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, was placed on the “Best Midsize Car for the Money” list by US News and World Report and “Most Popular” list by Edmunds. Of the 10.3 million Camrys sold in the U.S. in the last 31 years, more than 6.7 million are still on the road. Today, every Camry sold in North America comes from plants in Indiana and Kentucky, manufactured by more than 7,000 skilled U.S. workers who take pride in every Camry that rolls off the line. Camry May sales of 49,584 units were up over
Cecille Benitez (left) is the recipient of the prestigious Toyota Sales Society Gold Award in 2013, while Richard Cruz is very knowledgeable and very helpful who even delivers cars to customers at their homes or offices. Also, part of Toyota of Glendale’s Filipino fleet is Kay Cajulis, a Los Angeles native, whose work experience contributes to the friendly, helpful and family oriented team at Toyota of Glendale.
26 percent, topping its segment by almost 10,000 units. To put it into perspective, Camry has exceeded monthly sales of 50,000 units only four other times in its history. America’s best-selling car will get even better, as the redesigned 2015 Camry comes to market later this year aimed at satisfying thousands, one customer at a time. If you want to check out why Toyota Camry remains very popular, come and visit our friends and kababayans at Toyota of Glendale. Toyota of Glendale has Cecille Benitez, who moved here from the Philippines in 2001. She has been selling Toyotas for almost three years, and was awarded the prestigious Toyota Sales Society Gold Award in 2013. Cecille earned this award by selling over 250 cars in one year, and scoring over 95% on Toyota’s customer satisfaction survey. In the sales fleet of Toyota of Glendale also is Richard Cruz, who was born and raised in Glendale. He was in real estate for the past 20 years, but has been enjoying his transition from helping customers get their dream home to their dream car. Richard is very knowledgeable and he is happy to be a part of helpful team that even delivers your car to you at your home or office. Richard also volunteers at Holy Family Catholic Church, Church of the Incarnation in Glendale, St. Bernard Parish and St. Dominic Catholic Church in Los Angeles. In addition, Toyota of Glendale also has Kay Cajulis, who was born and raised in Los Angeles. Kay has worked as a Guest Relations Manager in the Health Care and Automotive industries. Her work experience contributes to the friendly, helpful and family oriented team at Toyota of Glendale. Toyota of Glendale is located at 1260 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale CA 91204. You can reach them toll free at 1- 866-522-5154.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
39
40
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Ponce Melo (right) gets a handshake of congratulations from Heddy Trinidad, the proprietor of Victory Autos. Melo is from San Francisco. He came down to Victory Autos in Azusa to buy his 2014 Range Rover from Victory Autos with the help of Heddy, who is a close friend and was a former classmate. Also in photo is Danny Tirante, who is part of the friendly staff and among the most experienced sales persons at Victory Autos.
San Franciscan travels to Southland to get Land Rover at Victory Autos I was looking at purchasing a Range Rover Sport 2014 model (Land Rover) and I was very pleased to have come across this great company Victory Autos, a dealer in Azusa, for all types of cars. It was a challenge for me to find a dealer that can sell me this model as it was not available in all Land Rover U.S. dealers, and that’s why I was reluctant at first when I learned that even they didn’t have this particular model available in stock, but still they went out of their way to extend their assistance in helping me get the said model and gave me the best deal for this LUXURY SUV. Their amazing support left me saving a huge amount of time, effort and money, and their assistance to lower the down payment and monthly payments were really amazing! Everyone at Victory Autos dealership was wonderful to deal with. They were all very pleasant, knowledgeable and really commendable. They even negotiated on my behalf and because of that, I was able to get this car at a very reasonable and competitive price. Imagine I saved thousands of dollars because of their assistance. Without their help, I might have ended up paying more than I was supposed to. But now I am confident that I am getting the car that i want in the best price that I can ever obtained. Hassle free! Thank you so much Victory Autos. Your great assistance is deeply appreciated! I will definitely recommend your company to friends and family. More Power! – Ponce Melo, San Francisco resident Backed by their 25 years in car business, Victory Autos is dedicated to offering highquality, pre-owned vehicles to our customers. And in order to make a bigger impact in the community, Victory Autos has come
up with a new logo that was designed to show Victory Autos’ commitment to high quality service and a friendly staff that is ready to help. From the moment you walk through our door, “we’re committed to providing you with a great car-buying experience. With our skilled sales staff and financing options, we’ll help you get the vehicle you want, at the great price you deserve,” Victory Autos owner and proprietor Heddy Trinidad said. And if you think you need a new car, a pre-certified vehicle, or a luxury automobile, “I urge you to call my very reliable staff in Danilo Tirante who can help you with your car needs.” Victory Autos is dedicated in providing the ultimate automobile buying experience. Victory Autos is your #1 source for buying a quality pre-owned vehicle at wholesale price. We have extensive relationships in the dealer community allowing us to purchase a wide variety of lease returns and new car trades at exceptional values. This enables Victory Autos to pass along huge savings on the highest quality vehicles of your choice. In addition, we offer a full array of financing options to meet your needs.” For more details, please visit Victory Autos Showroom at 791 E. Arrow Highway, Azusa, CA 91702, (626) 859-9199 or (626) 969-6169; Victory Auto Broker at 1579 E. Amar Road, West Covina, CA 91792, (626) 253-7576; and Victory Auto Care at 352 S. Irwindale Avenue, Azusa, CA 91702, (626) 334-7573. For more information, please call Victory Autos’ toll free number at 1-877821-7145. Or, visit their website at www. victoryautoconnect.com.
New Passat takes executive styling to next level (Relaxnews) – With the latest, eighthgeneration model of the Volkswagen Passat, VW is setting its sights higher than its Ford, Renault, Peugeot or Vauxhall/Opel competitors of the past. In fact, the company hopes that the new Passat has what it takes to be a viable alternative to a BMW or Mercedes. But why would someone that would otherwise be signing on the dotted line for a 3 Series pick the Passat instead? It’s a question that VW is attempting to answer through a combination of subtle exterior design – the new car’s lines are clean in the extreme – and masses of hightech features internally. This will be the first VW offered with a head-up display for instance. It also gets a huge 12.3-inch in-dash screen that will be called the Active Info Display and will soon start appearing on
other VW cars. Then there’s the quality and layout of the cabin itself and the clever way that Volkswagen has somehow made it roomier, lighter and more comfortable, even though the new Passat is, technically speaking, smaller than the car it is replacing. As such VW is taking a leaf out of Mercedes-Benz’s book, in as much as it is bringing its premium features, tech systems and fittings to its mid-range vehicles and will be offering them for mid-range prices. Something that Mercedes has just done with the C-Class, surprising its competitors in the process. In terms of engines, the Passat will be offered with an initial choice of economical four-cylinder petrol and diesel engines but more powerful variants, mated to fourwheel drive systems, as well as a hybrid model are also planned.
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
41
42
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
A Leader of the Pack – 2014 Lexus GS 350 named to Edmunds.com’s Top Rated Vehicles for 2014 Lexus RX 350 awarded Most Popular Entry Luxury SUV of 2014 TORRANCE, Caresearch and inventory lif. – April 16, 2014 pages on Edmunds.com. –There’s a leader of The RX 350 continues the pack in the midto be the most popusize luxury sport sedan lar choice in the luxury segment, the Lexus crossover segment it GS 350. The 2014 created more than 10 GS 350 was named years ago. The Lexus among Edmunds. RX’s standard equipcom’s “Top Rated ment and option packVehicles for 2014”. ages maximize value and The Lexus RX 350 provide customer’s most luxury utility vehicle demanded features. The was named Edmunds. Nelson Chua, Filipino sales of Lexus 2015 RX 350 is available c o m ’s “ M o s t P o p - Santa Monica in front and AWD models. ular Entry Luxury SUV of 2014.” Standard features for all RX that everyone Compared to competitors in its segment can appreciate include 40 cubic feet of and price class, the 2014 GS 350 did well cargo space, backup camera, a premium when driven by Edmunds.com staff on a audio system, 10-way power front seats standardized road-test loop and in instru- with power lumbar adjustment and 60/40 mented testing in controlled conditions. split rear seats that slide and recline. Also The Lexus GS 350 combines bold, dy- standard are 10 airbags: roll sensing side namic styling, precise handling, innova- curtain airbags, front seat-mounted side tive technology, and an interior with airbags, rear-side airbags and knee airpremium details. The GS conveys an bags for the driver and front passenger. enhanced sense of confidence to the driver, Drivers looking for a sportier luxury utilwith a redesigned chassis and a wide, ity vehicle will enjoy the RX 350 AWD F strong stance that rewards driver par- Sport. This model has an eight-speed auticipation with crisp and precise handling. tomatic transmission with paddle shifters, The GS is available in rear-wheel drive F Sport tuned suspension with front and (RWD) or all-weather drive (AWD) con- rear performance dampers, 19-inch wheels figurations, and can be equipped with the and unique exterior and interior features. available Premium, Luxury or F SPORT Lexus launched in 1989 with two packages for greater personalization. luxury sedans and a commitment to purEdmunds.com named the RX 350 “Most sue perfection. Since that time, Lexus has Popular Entry Luxury SUV of 2014” based expanded its line-up to meet the needs of on car-shopper consideration for 2013 global luxury customers. Lexus is now gocalendar year. Consideration is measured ing beyond its reputation for high quality by the monthly unique visitors to the vehicles with the integration of innova-
tive technology, emotional exterior and interior designs, and engaging driving dynamics and performance. With five models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers six F SPORT models and two F models, including the LFA supercar, for top-of-the-line performance. In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 233 dealers who are committed to exemplary
customer service. If you are interested in the 2014 Lexus GS 350 or any other Lexus model, please see Nelson Chua of Lexus Santa Monica and he will be more than happy to introduce to you the features of the GS 350 or any other model. He can be reached toll free at 1-844-242-5417. Lexus of Santa Monica is located at 1501 Santa Monica Blvd., Santa Monica, CA 90404.
Germany to charge foreign drivers on the Autobahn (BERLIN-AFP) – Germany plans to charge foreign motorists from 2016 to use its roads and famed Autobahn highways to help pay for the country’s infrastructure, the transport minister said Monday. Drivers of cars and motorcycles registered outside Germany are to pay about 10 euros ($13) for a 10-day badge, 20 euros for a two-month permit and over 100 euros for an annual pass. The exact cost of the one-year badge will depend on a vehicle’s engine size, age and emissions, said the minister, Alexander Dobrindt, as he presented his plan at a press conference. German motorists will also have to pay but will be compensated through a break on their motor vehicle tax in a proposal Dobrindt insisted would “conform with EU law”. In Brussels, a spokeswoman for EU Transport Commissioner Siim Kallas cautioned that “non-discrimination is a fundamental principle of EU law”, but declined to comment specifically on Dobrindt’s plans.
Neighboring countries including Austria and the Netherlands have already complained about the German proposal, which Dobrindt said would be formalized into a law this year. Dobrindt said foreign drivers make 170 million trips to or through Germany per year and predicted the new tolls would yield 2.5 billion euros for Germany’s public coffers over four years. The toll was a key demand in last year’s elections by Dobrindt’s Christian Social Union (CSU), the Bavarian sister party of Chancellor Angela Merkel’s conservatives. The plan plays well with southern German drivers who have long been disgruntled over having to pay highway tolls in neighboring Austria and Switzerland while foreign motorists have traversed Germany for free.
Ford recalls 100,000 cars NEW YORK, July 8, 2014 (AFP) – Ford recalled more than 100,000 cars of various models in North Tuesday, the latest in a surge of recalls in the wake of the GM faulty ignition scandal. Most of the recalled cars are Taurus/ MKS/Interceptor sedans and Flex/MKT vehicles from the 2013-2014 model years, which have problematic halfshafts, part of the drivetrain. Ford said the halfshafts could not have been fully seated in correct position in manufacturing, and could inhibit the car’s ability to drive. Ford said the problem has not led to any accidents or injuries, but needs fixing. The automaker said some 2014 Fiestas are being recalled for a potential problem with the fuel tank that could lead to leaking. Some 2014 Escapes are being called back for repairs to the panorama roof glass. And the company is recalling F59 commercial trucks from 2011-2014 for a potential electrical problem. No accidents have been reported as well with either of those problems. Safety-related recalls have increased this year, with General Motors, the largest US automaker, under fire for having ignored a problem with its ignitions that led to dozens if not hundreds of accidents and at least 13 deaths. GM is under federal investigation for that, has dismissed a number of senior officials, and is facing potentially billions of dollars in compensation costs to those who suffered from the problem. The company has since the beginning of the year recalled some 30 million vehicles altogether, for a number of problems on top of the ignition issue.
Balita The leading source of News and Information for the Filipino American Community
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
43
44
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Honda vehicles to seamlessly integrate android smartphone features with Android Auto TORRANCE, Calif., June 25, 2014 – Building on a series of advancements aimed at improving the in-car technology experience for consumers, Honda will introduce select vehicles compatible with Android Auto in 2015. Honda is displaying a functional prototype at Google I/O 2014, the annual developer conference hosted by Google in San Francisco, CA. Honda and Acura models and trims compatible with Android Auto will be announced in the future. To initiate Android Auto, Honda drivers will simply connect their compatible Android smartphone to the vehicle’s USB port using the cable that came with their phone, allowing them to intuitively access supported apps and features using the car’s in-dash display and voice controls. After connecting the compatible Android phone to their Honda vehicle, drivers will be able to “project” their smartphone experience onto the car’s in-dash display, giving them access to apps and services that have been optimized for the vehicle environment. “Honda’s goal is to integrate the power and functionality of today’s smartphones directly into our vehicles in a way that is seamless and intuitive for our customers,” said Nick Sugimoto, senior program director for Honda Silicon Valley Lab. “By working collaboratively with
Google and other technology companies, Honda will help millions of consumers around the world more easily and conveniently access their smartphones’ content, data and features.” Honda is a founding member of the Open Automotive Alliance (OAA), a group of automakers and technology companies committed to bringing the Android platform to cars. The company’s open innovation lab, Honda Silicon Valley Lab, spearheads Honda’s global interactions with technology companies like Google, as well as developers, to create cutting-edge products and customer experiences. Honda has been an industry leader in equipping its vehicles with technologies that support customers’ efforts to be more alert drivers, including the early introduction of hands-free telephone functionality, wide application of back-up cameras to 100 percent of automobiles by model year 2015, as well as other features. Further,
Honda is raising awareness of the dangers of distracted driving through initiatives like the Honda “#ThumbsUp” campaign, which launched in April 2014. Meanwhile, if you want to belong to the select group of Honda owners, all you have to do is visit the Diamond Honda of Glendale and get in touch with our kababayans Tito Adriosula, Cruzella Clemente and Orly Roque, who are more than ready to serve you and find you your new Honda Hybrids or any other Honda vehicle and be assured of top fuel efficiency as well as safety and maintenance. These are just some of the reasons why are the Pinoys coming in droves to the dealership. Above all, at Diamond Honda of Glendale, customers are treated like Diamonds! That statement is backed up by General Manager Philip Keung, who has endeared himself to Filipino customers because of his professionalism and his recognition and vast understanding of Honda’s multi-ethnic market. “He is a great anchor. We rely on his wisdom and professional savvy all the time. He is very helpful to the Filipino salesmen and customers alike,” says Tito. Diamond Honda of Glendale is located at 138 S. Glendale Avenue, Glendale, CA 91205. Its toll-free number is 1.866.237.7092.
September MX-5 launch confirmed (Relaxnews) – Mazda will be taking the wraps off the fourth generation of its wonderful little roadster at a special event in Barcelona on September 3. No one could have predicted how successful the MX-5 (or Miata as it’s known in the US) would become when Mazda launched it back in 1989. With its curved edges, pop-up headlights and classic combination of front-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive, it epitomized affordable fun, and disproved the stereotype once and for all that Japanese car companies don’t know how to design cars with character and personality. Ok, it looked suspiciously like a Lotus Elan and handled
like one too, but neither of those things are bad and over the last 25 years and two reimaginings, the car holds the Guinness World Record for the best-selling two-seater roadster of all time – 945,000 models and counting. So as not to alienate non-European MX-5 fans, Mazda has organized simultaneous satellite events in Japan and the US too. “The MX-5 is the product that best epitomizes Mazda’s convention-defying spirit and our love of driving,” says Mazda Motor Europe President and CEO Jeff Guyton. “It has been grabbing people’s attention for 25 years, and with the new-generation model we’re aiming to share this
passion with yet another generation of drivers.” The new car, which is expected to stick to the tried and tested formula of poise before power, is also eagerly anticipated because it will also serve as the platform for a new Fiat roadster.
Balita GET RESULTS! ADVERTISE WITH US TODAY!
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
2014 328i Sedan
2014 320i Sedan
$245 VIN NS78562 / STOCK 197710
Jet Black | Black
plus tax for 36 months
MSRP $34,925
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
Glacier Silver | Black
$178
$188
MSRP $38,675
5 to Choose from
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
Black Sapphire | Red/Black Dakota Leather
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
$238 plus tax for 24 months
VIN K155175 / STOCK 194044
Jet Black | Black
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
Titanium Silver | Black
MSRP $43,575
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
2014 535i GT
$399 plus tax for 36 months
VIN D085535 / STOCK 597202
Space Gray | Black Dakota Leather
MSRP $66,050
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
Pacific BMW 818-246-5600 *Qualified customers only. Available at Pacific BMW through BMWFS NA, LLC. Applies only to specific model years. Plus government fees and taxes, any finance charges, any dealer document processing charge, any electronic filing charge, and any emission testing charge. Ad expires at close of business date of publication.
MSRP 41,525
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
plus tax for 36 months
VIN 0D35393 / STOCK 195219
MSRP $46,175
2014 328d Sedan
$288
plus tax for 24 months
MSRP 52,550
plus tax for 36 months
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
plus tax for 24 months
$249 Orion Silver | Black Dakota Leather
VIN K154813 / STOCK 193708
2014 X3 xDrive28i
2014 335i Sedan
VIN WR97264 / STOCK 597145
MSRP $41,125
On above average approved credit. $4,995 due at lease signing. No security deposit required. Lessee responsible for mileage over 10,000 per year @ .20c per mile thereafter.
plus tax for 24 months
Jet Black | Black
$289
2014 328i Sedan
2014 x1 xDrive28i
VIN VY18506 / STOCK 597077
plus tax for 36 months
45
2014 328d Sedan
$249 $249 VIN K113026 / STOCK 197431
Visit www.Balita.com
pacificbmw.com 800 S. Brand Blvd. Glendale, CA 91204
46
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita
Balita
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
LOS ANGELES
Visit www.Balita.com
47
48
Visit www.Balita.com
LOS ANGELES
Weekend, Sat. - Fri., July 12 - 18, 2014
Balita