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LOS ANGELES

VOL. XXII, NO. 6

MARCH 14 - 20, 2015

THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FILIPINO-AMERICANS

Pacquiao vs Mayweather: ‘Fight of the Century’

By Jannelle So

By Rebecca Bryan

On the morning after the red carpet press conference that formally announced his upcoming fight against undefeated American champion Floyd Mayweather, Jr., Filipino boxing pride Manny Pacquiao was business as usual – jogged from his house to the Pan Pacific Park; did two rounds around the park, for a total of 5 miles, before stretching and ab work; and shot some hoops at the basketball court.

The schedule ran a little late, however, with Pacquiao arriving at the park at past 6:00 a.m. when in the past week he arrived at 5:00 a.m.

“Napagod siguro kahapon, parang 15 hours kami straight, puro interviews” said Edward Lura, one of the most trusted friends of Pacquiao, and a Team Pacquiao old-timer. (He probably got tired from yesterday. We had a 15-hour day doing interviews.)

Los Angeles, United States |AFP| Wednesday 3/11/2015 – Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather came face to face Wednesday for the first time since their May 2 mega-fight was announced, as Hollywood rolled out the red carpet for the richest bout in history.

“It’s been a long road but we’re here now,” said the unbeaten Mayweather, as the countdown began to an eagerly awaited welterweight world title showdown under the lights in Las Vegas that has been a long – and at times fraught – five years in the making.

Filipino ring icon Pacquiao countered: “The fight is on and we’re very excited.

Both of us will undergo hard training and we will do our best on May 2 to make you happy.”

The celebrated duo seemed almost subdued – unusual for the often cocksure

See MANNY, page 4

As Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao (right) turned out for their only joint press conference in the build-up to their May 2 mega-bout, Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach said “the unbeaten Mayweather’s vaunted defensive abilities are waning. His legs are a little bit shot. He’s slowed down quite a bit.” Photo: Benny Uy

See PACQUIAO, page 4

US Marine offered plea deal PHL court gives L/Cpl Pemberton chance to avoid murder trial that could net him 40 years in jail Olongapo , Philippines |AFP| Tuesday 3/10/2015 – A Philippine court on Tuesday offered a plea bargain to a US marine accused of murdering a transgender Filipina, according to lawyers, in a case that has strained Philippine-US ties.

This would give the detained marine, Lance Corporal Joseph Pemberton, a

chance to avoid a murder trial that could land him in prison for 40 years if convicted, a state prosecutor and lawyers for the victim’s family said.

Pemberton, aged 19 at the time of the killing, had previously asked the court through his lawyers to downgrade the murder charge to homicide, which carries a maximum 20-year prison term.

Lawyers for Pemberton could not be reached for comment on Tuesday’s court See US MARINE, page 4

Key suspect in Maguindanao’s deadliest massacre freed on bail Manila, Philippines |AFP| Tuesday 3/10/2015 – A key defendant in the worst political massacre in the Philippines, which saw 58 people murdered, has been freed on bail, the court trying the case said Tuesday.

The court granted the provisional release of Sajid Ampatuan on Monday, ruling against the government which wants him kept in prison along with more than 100 other suspects in the 2009 slaughter.

“He was released yesterday. He is free to travel anywhere in the Philippines,” Alan Moral, an official from the regional court handling the case told AFP. He is, however, barred from leaving the country while on bail.

Moral said the defendant had paid an 11.6 million-peso ($262,000) bond to be freed on bail.

Sajid Ampatuan could not be reached for comment Tuesday.

He is a son of Andal Ampatuan Snr., a Muslim political clan leader accused of masterminding the massacre in his southern bailiwick of Maguindanao province on November 23, 2009.

Nine clan members are among 111 people detained for the mass killings that prosecutors allege were part of a bid to See MAGUINDANAO, page 4

President Benigno S. Aquino III troops the line during the 29th Founding Anniversary of the Presidential Security Group (PSG) at the PSG Grandstand, Malacañang Park in Manila City on Tuesday (March 10).

PHL police promise ‘truth’ in disastrous Mamasapano raid

Manila, Philippines |AFP| Thursday 3/12/2015 – Philippine police say they are confident that they have found “the truth” of what happened during a disastrous operation against one of the world’s most wanted Islamic militants that left 44 police commandos dead, officials said Thursday.

Forty-four police commandos were slaughtered by Muslim rebels in a cornfield in the southern Philippines during a high-risk raid that also reportedly killed alleged Malaysian bomb-maker Zulkifli bin Hir, who goes by the alias “Marwan”.

The botched operation on 25 January has shaken the government of President Benigno Aquino, who in a recent speech blamed the head of the police commando unit Getulio Napenas for feeding him wrong information ahead of the campaign, which he also said should have been aborted.

“We are confident that we were able to seek out the truth and we are also confident that we would be able to tell you what really happened,” said Benjamin Magalong, head of the national police’s investigation group.

Megalong said it would be up to the government whether to make the findings public and denied suggestions that Aquino’s allegations had influenced the inquiry.

The 120-page report was submitted to the national police chief Deputy Director Leonardo Espina, who is expected to send it to Interior Secretary Manuel Roxas.

Megalong stressed his report did not recommend specific criminal charges against anyone for the bungled raid.

“We only do fact-finding. We are not prosecutorial,” he added.

See TRUTH, page 4

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When it’s a choice of food on the table or paying late charges on credit card balances that never seem to get smaller, the thought of bankruptcy is worth considering. Many people still find themselves in this situation. Last year over 2 million people filed for personal bankruptcy.

Although it is becoming an increasingly common word, what exactly does bankruptcy By: Atty. Paul Allen mean? Simply put, bankruptcy can be defined as the legal process through 20 days. Bankruptcy will also discharge the which the Federal Government provides past due debts for utility service. Although people in financial distress with a fresh the amount of a utility bill itself rarely start. justifies a bankruptcy filing, preventing The two kinds of bankruptcy that you electrical service cutoff might be justificamay qualify for. They are called Chapter 7 tion enough. and Chapter 13. There are various factors Q: Will filing a bankruptcy stop the that would determine eligibility for either foreclosure on my home?

Chapter 7 or Chapter 13. Chapter 7 BankA:If your home mortgage is being foreruptcy is a discharge of all unsecured debt. closed on, the automatic stay temporarily Chapter 13 is for people who may have stops the proceedings, but the creditor will significant non-exempt assets, and would often be able to proceed with the forebe required to enter into a whole or partial closure sooner or later. If you are facing repayment plan over a five year period. foreclosure and wish to save your home, Of course, there are intricate details to Chapter 13 bankruptcy is the appropriate this legal process. Who qualifies? Which remedy because it provides for a repayment bankruptcy chapter would apply to you? plan on the arrears.

Is all of your property exempt? There are Q: Can a bankruptcy stop an eviction? many questions to resolve before deciding A: No, under the new rules, a bankruptif bankruptcy is for you. Consult a compe- cy will not stop a court ordered eviction, tent bankruptcy attorney to advise you on but it will prevent a landlord from seeking all the options available in your particular to evict you, at least for a while, perhaps situation. just enough time to find somewhere else This week’s FAQ’s. to live. However, don’t file for bankruptcy Q: Creditors are harassing me – but I solely because you’re being evicted. You’ll lost my job, and cannot pay. How do I stop probably be better off looking for a new them calling? place to live or fighting the eviction in A: If you cannot pay your bills, creditors Municipal court instead. Remember, the will take steps to collect. That’s natural, main idea behind bankruptcy is to disbut continued harassment can be emo- charge debt. tionally depressing. If you have lost your Q: Will bankruptcy protect me; I’m job, or simply cannot cope, because debts behind in my child support payments? have grown to the point where you have A: If you owe child support or alimony, to choose who gets paid this month, and bankruptcy will not interrupt your obligawho doesn’t, then you need to consider the tion to make current payments. And while benefits of filing a bankruptcy. the automatic stay will temporarily stop Q: Will a bankruptcy stop collection proceedings to collect back support you agencies from calling me? owe, usually the bankruptcy court will perA: Yes, filing a bankruptcy protects you mit collection to go forward if the creditor from creditor harassment, and provides requests it. In any event, these debts will peace of mind. Creditors will not contact survive bankruptcy intact and will have to you if you filed bankruptcy and have an be paid once the case is closed. Chapter 13, attorney representing you. Otherwise however, lets you pay the back support as they risk being cited for contempt of fed- part of the repayment plan. eral court, something they will not risk.

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Another reason to consider a bankruptcy Will bankruptcy help me? now, even if you do not have assets to A: Yes. Although no more than 25% protect, is that after a bankruptcy, you can of your wages may be taken to satisfy a immediately begin the process of repairing court judgment (up to 65% for child supyour credit. This usually takes between 6 port and alimony), many people file for to 12 months, so an early start will get you bankruptcy to protect their income. For some people, any loss of income is devasthere faster.

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Although federal law prohibits you ately stopping any lawsuit filed against you and any action against your property by a from being fired for one garnishment, creditor, collection agency or government an employer can fire you for multiple entity. This can be very important, Espe- garnishments. Filing for bankruptcy stops cially if you are at risk of being evicted or garnishments dead in their tracks. Not only foreclosed on, being found in contempt for will you take home a full salary, but you failure to pay child support or losing such also can discharge the debt in bankruptcy.

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TRUTH From page 1

Resignation calls The pre-dawn raid on a secluded farming village controlled by Muslim rebels was meant to be a surprise attack, but hundreds of rebels surrounded and overpowered the commandos in a day-long battle.

The military said the death toll was the biggest single battlefield loss for security forces in their 34-year fight against Muslim rebels, who have waged a separatist insurgency since the 1970s.

A DNA test conducted by the FBI on a severed finger from at the site suggested it belonged to Zulkifli, one of the targets of the operation.

Filipino police said they removed the finger from Zulkifli’s corpse after killing him.

The incident has been a huge setback

Weekend, Sat. - Fri., March 14 - 20, 2015

for Aquino who has been blamed by the public for failing to send in police and military reinforcements in time, which experts say could have saved the lives of most of the men.

Some Catholic bishops and opposition groups have called for Aquino’s resignation.

The fiasco has also imperilled Aquino’s plans to seal a peace agreement with the country’s main Muslim rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), before his term ends next year.

Members of the MILF took part in the attack on the police commandos despite a ceasefire currently in place with the government.

Parliament has suspended debates on a proposed law to grant self-rule to Muslim regions of the mainly Catholic nation as legislators demanded an explanation for the debacle.

MAGUINDANAO From page 1

quash an election challenge from a rival clan.

Thirty-two media workers were among those killed, making the attack one of the deadliest ever recorded globally against journalists.

State prosecutors have opposed the clan members’ bail bids amid fears their release could intimidate witnesses.

Four people who had already given testimony or were scheduled to, as well as three relatives of potential witnesses, have been mysteriously murdered over the past few years.

“We’re aghast, we’re frustrated,” Harry Roque, a lawyer for some of the victims’ families, told AFP. “We are apprehensive that the Ampatuans could regain influence,” he added, noting the ruling came just over a year ahead of the May 2016 national and local elections.

Andal Ampatuan Snr had ruled Maguindanao as governor for about a decade under

the patronage of then-president Gloria Arroyo, who had funded a private army for the clan as a buffer against Muslim separatist rebels Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said state prosecutors will challenge the bail ruling in appellate courts in a bid to get the defendant back behind bars.

“I already gave instructions to the (state prosecution) panel... to avail of the proper remedy as soon as possible,” she told reporters.

Moral said the state has yet to complete the presentation of its witnesses and evidence, adding to concerns the trial could take many more years.

He said the court has yet to rule on the bail petitions of the other clan members, while more than 70 other murder suspects remain at large.

Moral said 16 policemen also accused in the murders were earlier granted bail but remained in jail because they could not afford to pay the bond.

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US MARINE From page 1

proceeding, which was off limits to the press.

Prosecutors and lawyers for the family of the victim, Jennifer Laude, as well as Pemberton’s defence team, were summoned to a hearing in the northern port of Olongapo to discuss the plea bargain process.

The victim’s family said they would not oppose the plea bargain as long as Pemberton served jail time.

“From the beginning until now, that’s what we want: to see him in jail for what he did to my child,” the victim’s mother Julita Laude told AFP. Prosecutors allege Pemberton met Laude in Olongapo shortly after the US marine took part in joint military exercises in the Philippines.

Laude, a 26-year-old also known as Jeffrey, was found dead on October 12 last year in a cheap hotel in Olongapo’s red light district shortly after checking in with Pemberton.

Prosecutors have described an unprovoked and relentless attack against Laude, whose head was plunged into a toilet until she died.

One option that the American could consider is to agree to pay damages and plead guilty to a lesser charge, Olongapo chief prosecutor Emilie Fe de los Santos told AFP. “They (Pemberton and the Philippine state prosecutors) have to agree on all points. After that, we’ll inform the court. But today there was no offer” agreed to by both parties, de los Santos said, outlining the court’s instructions.

“There is no final agreement...As of now, the charge is still murder,” Virgie Suarez, a lawyer for the victim’s family told AFP.

PACQUIAO From page 1

Mayweather – as they posed and chatted for a phalanx of about 600 media representatives who were recording their every move, in the only joint news conference they will conduct before fight week.

Mayweather, smartly clad in a dove gray suit and pale striped shirt, diamond cufflinks winking, showed only rare glimpses of his “Money” Mayweather swagger – but did predict he would emerge with his unbeaten record intact.

“I believe in my skill. I believe in myself,” said the 38-year-old, who will put his 47-0 record on the line.

Quiet confidence Pacquiao, 57-5 with two drawn and 38 knockouts, displayed his usual quiet confidence, in a cavernous auditorium normally reserved for pop concerts and Hollywood A-listers.

“I believe I will win on May 2,” said the down-to-earth 36-year-old southpaw, who has won world titles in an unprecedented eight weight divisions.

He refused to be ruffled by Mayweather’s somewhat half-hearted attempt to get into his head with a reference to the defeats on his resume.

MANNY From page 1

Before his 11:00 a.m. appearance on the red carpet on March 11th, Pacquiao, accompanied by Lura and a small entourage, started their day at the ESPN building in L.A. Live. “Manny went early to the ESPN office to guest in seven different program formats of the the station, from news to feature programs, including the high-rating show of Max Kellerman, ‘SportsNation,’” reported veteran news videographer Rene Casibang who has been covering Pacquiao fights since 2005. He was able to shoot footage of Pacquiao’s activities before the press con. In his comment to Kellerman’s question about him winning, Manny Pacquiao said, “You know in boxing, you can not win if you’re always just on defense.

Boxing is about punches, how you connect punches.”

Outside the Nokia Theater, Pacquiao, who has long been a press favorite because of his accommodating nature and interesting quotes, gamely answered more questions from more than 700 credentialed media members who had been waiting in

If the parties fail to agree, the murder trial will proceed and the court will order prosecutors to start presenting their evidence and witnesses on March 23, the lawyers said. Legal observers say that theoretically, a plea bargain would help resolve the case within a one-year period set under a joint US-Philippine defense agreement for US servicemen accused of committing crimes in the Philippines.

Pemberton is currently under US military guard at a Philippine military base in Manila, the US government having refused to hand over custody to Philippine authorities.

Security was tight at the courtroom Tuesday, with only lawyers, legal staff, US embassy representatives and the family of the victim allowed inside.

Philippine police stood guard as anti-US demonstrators staged a rally outside the courthouse demanding Pemberton be transferred to Philippine custody.

The US military has had an enduring presence in its former colony since the Philippines gained independence in 1946.

Military exercises involving thousands of US soldiers take place each year, with a new agreement signed a year ago allowing a greater US troop presence in the country – part of US President Barack Obama’s so-called pivot to Asia.

Philippine President Benigno Aquino had courted a greater US presence in an effort to counter perceived rising Chinese aggression in a long-running territorial dispute in the South China Sea.

“When you lose, it’s in the mind,” said Mayweather, widely considered boxing’s pound-for-pound king.

“If you lost once, it’s in your mind. If you lost twice, it’s in your mind. From day one, I was taught to be a winner.” But Mayweather admitted the stakes are higher – and not just because by the time the payper-view revenues are counted the fight is certain to be the most lucrative of all time.

“I’ve never wanted to win a fight so bad in my life,” said Mayweather, projected to make an eye-watering $120 million.

Pacquiao will pocket $80 million.

Previous bids to put together a fight between the two – most notably in late 2009 – had run aground over various issues, including division of the purse and a drug testing protocol. Another complication was the fact that Mayweather has a deal with US telecaster Showtime and Pacquiao with fierce rival HBO. ‘Monumental’ The two networks are working together on the bout, with HBO Sports president Ken Hershman saying Wednesday the event “transcends boxing for sure and will probably transcend sport.”

Showtime’s Stephen Espinoza called it a “monumental event.” line to talk to him. “A football field is 100 yards long. Our carpet was longer,” said Fred Sternburg from Pacquiao’s public relations team.

It took him more than 2 hours to finish the long press line which included popular Hollywood entertainment television outlets E! and TMZ. Not to be outdone is the Filipino media who came out in full force. Outlets from the Philippines who in the past only sent their coverage teams a week or two before the fight, sent their respective crews. Philippine media giants ABS-CBN and GMA both went live from the carpet, to cover the only time the two fighters will face each other before their much-awaited May 2nd at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

“Kaka-iba talaga itong laban na ito. This is the biggest fight of my career, the fight of the century. Dapat ninyong abangan at hindi palampasin,” Pacquiao told us on the red carpet. He was being whisked off for more live interviews at the end of the line; but graciously stopped to talk to us. (This is a different fight... You should watch out for this and not miss it.)

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Mayor Binay suspended MANILA, Mar 11 (Mabuhay) – The Office of the Ombudsman on Wednesday announced that it has suspended Makati Mayor Junjun Binay for six months over corruption allegations concering the alleged overpricing in the construction of the Makati City Hall Building II. “[The Ombudsman] preventively suspends Mayor Binay, Jr., et.al. for 6 months, pending investigation of the Makati carpark complaint,” the Ombudsman’s social media account said Wednesday morning.

The Ombudsman also ordered Junjun Binay and his co-accused to file their counter-affidavits to answer the Makati carpark complaint.

Sought for comment, Senator Nancy Binay, sister of the Makati mayor, said she will talk to her brother first before giving any statement.

The camp of Binay’s father, Vice President Jejomar Binay, meanwhile, has yet to issue a comment on the matter. Mayor

Binay has also yet to issue a statement on his suspension. The suspension stems from the plunder and graft complaint filed in July last year by lawyer Renato Bondal, a political rival of the Binays.

In his complaint, Bondal claimed the construction of the building was overpriced

by P862 million.

Bondal said VP Binay, who was Makati mayor when the building was constructed in 2007, conspired with his son, Junjun, then a city councilor, some former and current Makati officials, and 10 executives of Hilmarc’s Construction Corp. over the building’s construction.

The Senate blue ribbon subcommittee is also looking into the allegations concerning the Makati City Hall Building II as well as other corruption issues involving the Binays.

The Binay camp has repeatedly said that the allegations against them are politically motivated. (MNS)

Utah could become only US state to restore firing squad Los Angeles, United States |SFP| Wednesday 3/11/2015 – Utah could become the only US state to restore the firing squad as a method of execution after lawmakers approved a bill on the emotive issue on Tuesday.

The draft legislation, approved by the western US state’s senate, would allow for a firing squad if drugs used for executions were unavailable, as has recently been the case in a number of US states.

The bill, approved by 18 votes to 10, according to the state legislature’s Twitter feed, still has to be signed into law by Governor Gary Herbert.

Herbert, a Republican, has not indicated if he intends to approve it.

The sponsor of the bill, Republican

lawmaker Paul Ray, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. He is reported as saying that the firing squad is a quick and humane alternative to lethal injection.

The US Supreme Court is due next month to consider the constitutionality of lethal injection – the most common form of execution in the United States, but one that has become increasingly controversial.

In 2008, the court ruled that lethal injection was constitutional, but that was before recent shortages in the most commonly used drugs prompted state officials to come up with unproven lethal medication cocktails that appeared to cause pain and suffering in inmates during some recent executions.

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Erap mulls seeking re-election as Manila mayor MANILA, Mar 11 (Mabuhay) – Contradicting his earlier statement that serving as mayor of the country’s capital will only be a one-shot affair, former President and Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada on Wednesday expressed intention of seeking re-election in 2016. Estrada said though nothing is final yet, he is likely to seek reelection in next year’s local and national elections.

“Kung ako tatanungin, wala naman akong ibang plano kundi sakali, baka mag-run ako for re-election as mayor of Manila,” Estrada, more popularly known as Erap, said.

Estrada bared this a day after the Supreme Court affirmed its earlier ruling dismissing the disqualification case filed against him by Alicia Vidal, the legal counsel of former Manila mayor Alfredo Lim, Estrada’s rival in the 2013 elections.

In its ruling, the SC found Estrada eligible when he ran as Manila mayor in 2013, saying his civil and political rights were restored when he was given absolute pardon in 2007 by then-President and current Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Asked if he still intends to run for higher office, specifically as president, following the favorable Supreme Court ruling, Estrada said: “Wala na. Tapos na ako roon. Ang gusto ko ngayon ay maibalik natin ang image of Manila as the ‘Pearl of the Orient.’” Estrada said it becomes a great challenge for him to bring back the progress of Manila, following the huge amount of debts allegedly left its past leaders.

“Naging malaking hamon sa akin ang ibalik ang sigla at kaunlaran ng Manila.

Bangkarote ang Manila nung dinatnan natin. Mahigit P4 bilyon ang utang na inabot nung dinatnan natin,” he said. Estrada said he and his councilors immediately crafted measures that would help increase the revenue of the city, such as by increasing real property tax. he said that by June of this year, the city may already reach a “debt-free” status. Estrada, however, said that the reforms that he initiated in the city must be properly implemented in the following years. He also said that many reforms have yet to be done to sustain the city’s improving economic condition.

“Naging malaking hamon talaga sa akin ang ibalik ang sigla ng Maynila... Pero marami pang dapat gawin dito sa Maynila,” said Estrada, a former movie actor who started his political career as mayor of San Juan City.

Asked on who may be his running-mate should he finally decide to seek reelection, Estrada said he may have to choose among the current councilors of the city.

“Wala pa. Pero namimili pa tayo. Maraming magagaling dito sa aking mga konsehal,” Estrada said.

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Broadway in Glendale, California

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start them young.

Among the child performers are Chelsea Chiu who will sing “Tomorrow” and Joshua-Kai Dawson who will croon “Where is Love?”

After going through auditions, seven talented kids landed the von Trapp children roles in “The Sound of Music.” These are Samantha Isidro (Liesl), Christian Avendaño (Friedrich), Tia Enroth (Louisa), Micah Luna (Kurt), Christina Blay (Brigitta), Sabrina Evangelista (Marta) and Maggi Avant (Gretl). Ian Luna plays Rolfe.

Ferrolino.

“We are also featuring talented Filipino American performers who deserve to be getting major breaks. We would like to help promote these artists,” said Ramos who added that aside from using the original arrangements of songs in Broadway musicals, he will arrange a few pieces especially for FASO and the show Here’s an invitation from Shroder: “We would like to encourage everyone to bring their entire families, including small children. This concert will be a good exposure

Six other children will perform as part of the FASO Broadway kids ensemble.

“I’m especially excited to work with the youngsters singing solos and parts of the von Trapp children,” said Shroder. “From the beginning of the audition process, I was very impressed with the overwhelming talent of these children. They are just amazing. Most of them can read notes. They are always on time and come prepared during rehearsals.” “The children, ranging in age from as young as 6 to 18, blew me away the moment they opened their mouths to sing,” added Nepales who attended a recent rehearsal. “So you can imagine how many talented Filipinos there are who just need the major breaks. That’s why FASO is giving some of these talented Filipino talents a chance to shine and be discovered through the show.”

Other guest vocal performers include Giji Kocher (aka Djhoanna Garcia), Ninette Tenza, Isabella Ramos and Emily

to music and will bring tremendous value to their music appreciation experience.”

Tickets to “FASO Goes Broadway,” priced at $25, $40, $45, $60 and $100, are available with Arlene Ferrolino, FASO board of directors president, (213) 2489850; Bob Shroder (818) 395-8936 and Andy Tecson (323) 467-5069. More details about the show at www.fasofoundation. org. Alex Theatre is located at 216 North Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 91203.

Jannelle So is credited for creating, hosting and producing America’s first and only locally-produced daily talk show for Filipinos, that ran for 8 ½ years under her leadership, making it the longest-running Filipino talk show outside of the Philippines. On her spare time, she loves to travel. This new column will document her sojourns as she shares what she learns an discovers on her trips. Connect to her on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; or email her at sojannelle77@gmail.com.

After they successfully swung the night away late last year, the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO) is now gearing up to go Broadway.

The Broadway theater district of New York City is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Big Apple where patrons and fans converge to witness what is represented to be the highest form of commercial theatrical performances.

Broadway also refers to these shows that run in 40 professional theaters that lie along Broadway in Manhattan.

By: Jannelle So Thankfully, Californians need not make travel arrangements to enjoy this. On April 25th 2015, the only Filipino symphony orchestra outside the Philippines, will bring Broadway to the Alex Theater in Glendale, California in “FASO Goes Broadway.”

“This will be a thrilling show since it will be the first time that FASO will perform an entire concert devoted to Broadway music,” said Luis “Louie” Ramos, vice president and arranger-in-residence of FASO. The orchestra, 50-member strong for this show, will treat the audience to songs from Broadway musical favorites Continuing its tradition of presenting quality, enjoyable concerts, the Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), the only Filipino including “Phantom of the Opera,” “Les symphony orchestra outside the Philippines, will perform an entire concert devoted to Broadway favorites. “FASO Goes Broadway,” featuring Filipino vocalists, including talented children, as backed by 50 orchestra members, will be staged on Saturday, April 25, 7:00 p.m. at the Miserables” (“I Dreamed a Dream”) and Alex Theatre in Glendale.

“My Fair Lady” (“I Could Have Danced created for child performers, including All Night”).

Aside from featuring well-loved Broad- “Do-Re-Mi” (“The Sound of Music”), way songs, the concert will also honor “Tomorrow” (“Annie”) and “Where is Filipino artists who have performed on Love?” (“Oliver!”).

Another highlight of the show will be Broadway, including Joan Almedilla who these children singers. I have been coverstarred as “Kim” and Bonifacio “Bones” ing FASO events and interviewing some Deoso who played the role of “Thuy” in of their members.

I recall distinctly one “Miss Saigon.” Hollywood journalist and thing that struck me in my previous conFASO board member Ruben Nepales said versations with FASO’s highly esteemed that this is “FASO’s way of celebrating musical director and conductor, Robert Pinoy talent.”

“Bob” Shroder.

He said that one of FASO’s The event, sponsored by Philippine Airlines and MoneyGram, will also fea- trust is to cultivate music appreciation in ture a special segment for beloved songs our Filipino-American community; and to

SO L.A.

Royale Business Club faces tax evasion charges MANILA, Mar 12 (Mabuhay) – A popular multi-level marketing club has been accused of tax evasion before the Department of Justice.

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) filed a criminal complaint against Royale Business Club International for willful attempt to evade or defeat tax, and deliberate failure to supply correct information in its annual income tax returns and quarterly value added tax returns in 2011, 2012 and 2013.

Charged were Royale’s president Julius Allan G. Nolasco, vice president for finance and treasurer Isa Angela C. Bautista and assistant treasurer Jeanette R. Maghirang, assistant treasurer Imelda P. Pedron, and assistant accounting manager Marjorie G. Molina.

Royale is a company involved in the marketing consumer products and distributorship of food supplements, cosmetics, pharmaceutical products and beverages.

Its registered address is at 1363 A. Quezon Avenue, West Triangle, Quezon City.

The BIR had requested banks for records of Royale’s payments to them.

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Bartender says ‘Indeed, St. Patrick’s Day is a religious event’ On Tuesday, March 17, 2015 the whole world will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. When I lived in Chicago sometime back, the Chicago River turns green to commemorate this special day. We used to look out of the window of the Encyclopedia Brittannica building where I worked on Michigan Avenue and watch the river near Whacker Drive turn green on this special day.

Early on, I particularly learned from my former Irish supervisor Jim Shannon, who was our Managing Editor at Furniture Design Magazine, an RR Don- St. Patrick’s Day was made an official nelly publication, that the Feast of St. Irish Christian feast day during the sevPatrick or St. Patrick’s Day is both a enteenth century and is observed not only “cultural and religious” event, celebrated by the Christians but also by Catholics, annually on March 17th , symbolizing Anglicans, the Eastern Orthodox Church, the death anniversary of St. Patrick, “the Lutheran Church and the Church of Irepatron saint of Ireland who lived from AD land.”

395-461.”

Typically, per Jim the celebrations inSir Jim as we used to call him, knew the clude parades, the wearing of green attire story on how St. Patrick’s Day started. Ac- or shamrocks and though Christians attend cording to him and per a research I did, church services during the Lenten season,

this is one day where restrictions on eating and drinking are lifted. It is celebrated as a public holiday in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Newfoundland, Labrador and Montserrat; but it is likewise celebrated worldwide in countries such as: Great Britain, Canada, Argentina, Australia, New Zealand and the United States.”

The shamrock, Jim says is a “symbol of Ireland.” It is a three-leaved plant or clover leaf which according to their legend, “St. Patrick wore as a symbol of the metaphor on Christian Holy Trinity.”

The “wearing of the green” during St. Patrick’s Day began since the 1680’s when the “green harp flag was used by Irish Catholic Confederation, which included green ribbons and shamrocks.” Further,

the color green was also “adopted by the Fraternity Brothers of St. Patrick, an Irish fraternity founded in 1750 and in 1790, the color green was associated with Irish nationalism when it was used by the United Irishmen (a republican organization led mostly by Protestants), along with its Catholic members who launched a rebellion against British rule.”

Thus, the phrase “wearing of the green” had its own song signifying the “lament of United Irishmen supporters being persecuted for wearing green.” This was how the “wearing of green” grew from the 19th (c) to the present. As the saying goes “if you wear green on St. Patrick’s Day, you might end up with the Luck of the Irish.” Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

DHS’ lenient enforcement priorities beneficial to fearful applicants In conjunction with President Obama’s sweeping announcement of Executive Action on November 20, 2014, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued an internal policy memorandum that sets forth the DHS’ current policy regarding who it now seeks to apprehend, detain, and remove from the United States. The memo, entitled “Policies for the Apprehension, Detention and Removal of Undocumented Immigrants,” was issued in order to provide clear guidance to DHS officers as to which undocumented immigrants it deems a priority for removing from the US. The priorities is not a threat to national security, public outlined in the memo are designed to ensure safety, or border security….” that the US minimizes its threat to national The “Priority 3” category, which is the security, public safety, and border security. lowest enforcement priority, includes indiThe memo recognizes that the DHS does viduals who have been issued a final order not have unlimited resources to apprehend, of removal on or after Jan. 1, 2014. The detain, and remove all undocumented im- memo states that these individuals should migrants from the US. Rather, it wisely be removed, unless the individual can show recognizes that its limited resources must be that he is “not a threat to the integrity of focused on those undocumented individuals the immigration system or there are factors who pose an actual threat to the safety of the suggesting the [individual] should not be an US and those who threaten border security. enforcement priority.”

The memo details three levels of individuals The memo makes it clear that individuals that it prioritizes for deportation. unlawfully residing in the US who do not The “Priority 1” category are those fall within any of these categories should not deemed to be the highest priority for de- be a priority for the DHS to apprehend and portation as they pose the greatest threat to deport. Individuals who are not within the national security, public safety, and border Priority 1-3 categories should be removed security. This includes: A) individuals only when removal of the individual “would engaged in or suspected of terrorism or serve an important federal interest.” espionage, or otherwise pose a danger to Because of the DHS’ clearly defined national security; B) individuals caught at directives as to who it seeks to apprehend, the border or ports of entry attempting to detain, and deport, this is the prime opporunlawfully enter the US; C) individuals tunity for individuals who may otherwise convicted of criminal street gang crimes be afraid to move forward with seeking or participation in an organized criminal solutions to their immigration dilemmas. gang; D) individuals convicted of a criminal For example, individuals who may have felony; and E) individuals convicted of an wrongfully obtained their permanent “aggravated felony” under the immigration resident status because they were not truly laws. Individuals in the Priority 1 category qualified, such as an unmarried child who are to be prioritized for removal unless was in fact already married; or someone who “there are compelling and exceptional fac- entered with an assumed name or otherwise tors that clearly indicate the [individual] committed fraud; or someone who was isis not a threat to national security, public sued a deportation order before Jan. 1, 2014. safety, or border security.”

Presuming there is a legitimate basis for The “Priority 2” category, which ad- correcting the violation, then this is the time dresses lesser criminal violations and new to seize the chance at doing so as the DHS’ immigration violators, are those deemed to priorities make it clear that the likelihood it be the second-highest priority for deporta- would result in the individual’s apprehention. This includes: A) individuals convicted sion, detention, or removal are not too likely. of 3 or more misdemeanors; B) individuals Individuals need to move beyond their fear convicted of a “serious misdemeanor”, and seek competent legal counsel who can such as domestic violence; sexual abuse or hopefully help with remedying their situaexploitation; burglary; unlawful possession tion and living with the respect and dignity or use of a firearm; drug distribution or traf- that all deserve. ficking; driving under the influence; or other For further information, please schedcrime wherein the individual was sentenced ule an appointment with an attorney at to at least 90 days of jail; C) individuals who Aquino & Loew, Certified Immigration Law entered the US unlawfully and have not Specialists; (888) 797-1140 or (626) 799been continuously physically present in the 3089; info@aquinoloew.com. Please also US since Jan. 1, 2014; and D) individuals visit Aquino & Loew at www.aquinoloew. who the DHS considers to have significantly com and connect with us on Facebook and abused the visa or visa waiver programs. Twitter. Aquino & Loew also handles famThe memo states that individuals in the Pri- ily law and criminal matters. Providing ority 2 category “should be removed” unless Personalized Service Nationwide & Abroad “there are factors indicating the [individual] Since 1996.

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Seniors see no benefit in keeping credit card DEBTS; One seeks to discharge $20k and another $30k We all go through different stages in life. When you are in your twenties, your whole life is ahead of you. You may be starting a family or starting your career or profession. You’re buying your starter home. If you have children, your whole life is centered on them. This goes on until they turn 18 and start striking out on their own. At that time, you are in your forties. You still feel young and still look young. Maybe you focus on your career more By: Atty. Lawrence Yang and try to make more money.

You might travel the world to see places thinking about your mortality, something, and people that you have never seen be- which you never really thought about. You fore. You start to incur credit card debt to start getting physical problems, maybe hyfinance your lifestyle, your version of the pertension, diabetes, or arthritis. You look American dream. In your fifties, you feel at pictures of yourself, and start noticing pretty much like you did when you were that your hair is thinning, your hairline in your thirties and forties. You actually receding, your stomach becoming more still look vigorous. Then when you enter like a balloon. the late fifties, you start thinking about Then you enter the sixties. Social seproviding enough for retirement. You start curity sends you letters showing you why

BANKRUPTCY

you should not get early retirement at 62, because you will get a lot more if you get your social security at 66, almost 50% more, and the amount increases at the rate of 7% a year. So you decide to continue working until you can at least get full benefits at 66, which is another 5 years if you’re 61.

My first client retired in 2007 when she was 70. Now she is 77. She was working as a cashier at a dollar store when she retired.

At the age of 70, she had credit card debt of $20,000. That required $600 of minimum monthly payments to keep them current.

She has kept them current for the last 7 years. So, she has paid a total of $50,400 in the last 7 years to keep the $20K of credit cards current. Yes, her credit cards are current right now but she still owes $20K after having paid $50,400. Doesn’t seem right, so is she hallucinating and should her children send her to the sanitarium for treatment, or should they send her for post-traumatic stress disorder, because that is what she is feeling now as she gets stressed from collection phone calls as late as 11 p.m. This senior client should not be placed in this stressful daily situation now.

She should relieve herself completely of that burden. Besides, with social security of $1,000 a month, where will she get $600 a month to keep those cards current for the next 10 years? She’s only renting a room for $400 a month, and she can’t work anymore because she is already physically frail. To even the playing field, client decides to discharge all of the $20K credit card debt with a Chapter 7 petition, which she should have done 7 years ago. She would have saved $50,400, owed nothing to credit cards, and have a credit score of over 700. The minute she decided to file a Chapter 7 petition, she felt total relief from the burden of credit card debt! No more debt, no more harassing collection phone calls; a peaceful retirement at last.

The second client is 55. She is still working as an accountant and makes $60K a year. Her son is 28 and lives with her because he has not been able to get a permanent job since he graduated from college. She co-signed his student loans of $80K. She pays $900 a month for her son’s student loans. She racked up $40K of credit cards since she divorced 8 years ago. Her first mortgage is $2,500, and her HELOC line is $500 a month. She is also paying for her son’s car loan at $500 a month. Her net take home pay is $4K. Not

much room left, considering secured debt is claiming $3K a month just for the house and the car. Add $900 for the student loans, and there is nothing left for food. Credit cards require $1,200 a month minimum.

There is no money to pay any part of that.

Fortunately, son has just gotten an offer to work for a realty management company at $3K a month. But even with son paying his own way for the student loans and his car, client sees no way for her to pay off her credit cards in her lifetime. So, client decides to get rid of all of the $40K credit card debt with a Chapter 7 petition. This is a good decision for her because she will save the $1,200 a month. In one year alone, she will save $14,400, and she will have no debt.

I refer you to ECCLESIASTES 3 - “A time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: A time to be born, a time to die… a time to keep and a time to throw away…” There was a time when one needed the credit cards for whatever reason, but there is also a time to get rid of all of them. And that time is now. Unless you can get a big chunk of free cash from somewhere, the best alternative is to get Chapter 7 relief. You keep all your assets (in most cases), and keep all your income, but you get rid of all your debt and get a fresh start in life, no matter what your age is! Set an appointment to see to see if you qualify. You will feel relief from financial stress and the burden of debt instantly!

“THE LORD IS MY PORTION,” SAYS MY SOUL,”THEREFORE I HAVE HOPE IN HIM.” LAMENTATIONS: 3:24.

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

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

SENIORS SEE NO BENEFIT IN KEEPING CREDIT CARD DEBTS. ONE SEEKS TO DISCHARGE $2OK AND ANOTHER $30K_lv

Rhody Laigo, mother Weekend Balita editor, 88 Rhody E. Laigo, 88, of Pleasanton, California, a mother of six, deaconess and a former school teacher back in the Philippines where she was born, has joined her Maker last Saturday, March 7, 2015.

A voracious reader, Mrs. Rhody Laigo was a school teacher, an English school teacher. She had a very good command of the English language that her children used to complain on words she would use in the game of Scrabble, which were all valid when checked and verified by Webster’s.

She also played the piano and sang for the church choir.

A strong follower of Christ, Mrs. Rhody Laigo was a deaconess at a United Church of Christ, who used to take over the podium vice the pastor to speak on the word of God. Mrs. Laigo was a gregarious person who enjoyed food (for some reason UCC congregants would always have a pot luck for lunch after service which everybody loves) and being with people. She was a sales professional who sold real estate, household items, etc.

A friend to some Filipino politicians in her heydey, Mrs. Laigo immigrated to the U.S. in the early 70s and was among those lucky enough to escape the 20-year

Rhody Laigo (right) with husband, the late Atty. Solomon P. Laigo

Marcos dictatorship, and settled in Daly City – home to thousands of Filipinos – where she made new friends.

Married to the former Atty. Solomon P. Laigo, Mrs. Laigo is survived by her three sons, Solomon Jr., Reuben James and Weekend Balita and US Asian Post editor Rhony; daughters Avery and Jennifer (a sibling – Hildegarde – passed away in 2004); grandsons Toti, Ernesto Jr., VJ, Andrew and Neil Joseph; granddaughters Johanne, Shirley, Althea, Angelle and Karina; other great grandsons and granddaughters both here and in the Philippines.

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Grounds for annulling a marriage Most couples that want out of a marriage in California usually file for Divorce. There are circumstances though that allow a couple to have their marriage “voided” rather than “dissolved.” There is a big difference between the two concepts. With a voided marriage, it restores the couple to status of unmarried person as if they have never been married before. In a divorce, the couple would always be regarded to By: Kenneth Reyes & Darrick Tan as married during the period of on the parties option. One such circumthe marriage.

Unlike Divorce which can be ob- stance is when the petitioner was under 18 tained regardless of the reason. Voiding years old when the petitioner married and a marriage may only be obtained based the parents did not provide their consent. on certain grounds. It is void in cases The Nullity petition based on this ground of incest and bigamy. It is voidable in has to be filed within four years after the cases of minority, Unsound Mind, Fraud, party turns 18. The parent of the minor Force, or Physical Incapacity. Marriages may also file the Petition provided it is between parents, children, ancestors and filed prior to the minor turning 18. Another descendants, brothers and sisters, half situation is a bigamist marriage where the brothers and sisters, uncles and nieces, first spouse has been absent and not known and aunts and nephews are incestuous to be living for 5 years prior to the second and are void from the beginning. So are marriage or if the party believed the spouse bigamist marriages where either party was to be dead at the time of the second marstill married to another person when they riage. A Nullity based on this ground may entered the marriage. Nevertheless, it is be filed during the life of the other party.

A marriage may be voided if either party best to obtain a Nullity Judgment to clarify the legal status of the parties under these was of unsound mind at the time of the circumstances. marriage. Unsound Mind means a person Certain situations does not necessarily is incapable of understanding the nature of make a marriage void but makes it voidable the marriage contract and the duties and

BARRISTER’S CORNER

One more time: Is ‘Medicare portability’ necessary?

IT IS NOT PRACTICAL. There are 48 million Medicare members. Can anyone make a guess on how many are Fil-Ams? Of the total Fil-Ams, how many have Medicare Parts A and/or B and it is MediCal that pays for the premiums? (This number is significant; they have to be taken off the equation because they may not stay out of the U.S. for more than 29 days and enjoy their Social Security Income/MediCal By: Leo Monsalud benefits as well.) Of the balance, how many will stay in the Philippines 1 or 2 furnished outside the U.S. if “such hospital months per year? How many will stay there was closer to the residence of such individual for 6 months and the other 6 months will be (US resident) than the nearest hospital within spent here in the US? How many will stay in the U.S. which was adequately equipped to the Philippines for good, REALLY?, despite deal with the individual’s illness or injury.” the fact that they have already established I believe that the proponents of the their roots here, despite the fact that their “Medicare portability ” campaign and the children and grandchildren are here, despite individuals and/or organizations that support the fact that in their retirement, their doctors them are only motivated by the best and the and other medical providers are here? Please noblest of intentions for the Philippines. I secure the numbers and do the math. believe that when they launched and/or exToday, many affluent Filipinos come to the pressed their support to the campaign, they US to have major surgical procedures done have committed to spend their time, effort, here. Will not FilAm Medicare members who energy, and resources to achieve the goals. I decide to reside permanently in the Philip- believe that the goals of the campaign are to pines do likewise? generate revenue for the Philippines by alSUMMATION. Ladies and gentlemen, lowing the Medicare member enjoy his/her clearly, if “Medicare portability” comes to health benefits there. I submit to you that the pass, it will only achieve a marginal im- goals will be better and faster achieved by provement in benefits (worldwide “medical employing the commitment of time, effort, emergency” coverage is already available for energy and resources toward educating our those who have Medicare Part C) to only a Fil-Am Medicare members on the benefits very few Fil-Am Medicare members. It is the that they are presently entitled to, but are not benefit of regular medical consultation (check aware of; rather than enjoin the Washington up) with a limited number of doctors (those lobbyists gather more signatures and submit “affiliated” with the 3 hospitals). Now, tell them only to Democrat friends in Congress. me, is the cost of the “Medicare portability” By the way, I asked a person who just signed campaign “the efforts, the energy, the press the document what it is that he just signed for. releases, the signature campaign, the time and And, he answered me: “I don’t know.” Wow! other resources spent” worth it?

You may reach me at 323-535-7373, or Furthermore, the medical billing process is e-mail at: leo.balita@gmail.com. another issue altogether. What about pricing, Leo Monsalud hails from Sta. Cruz, Zamexchange rates, HIPAA and PPACA compli- bales. He studied for his MBA and Law at ance? How will the 3 hospitals be sensitive the University of the Philippines. He worked to this challenge? for United Laboratories, Inc. where his last As regards the Guam thing, the campaign position held was vice-president assigned as proponents may not have sufficiently re- general manager of a division. He was a jointsearched on the matter. I believe (and please venture partner of the San Miguel Corporation correct me if I am wrong) that such situation in an agri-business project. He holds CA liis an affirmation that Guam is well within the cense # 0G55218 and a Non-Resident license purview of Social Security Act of 1965 Sec- for Nevada. He is a Certified Insurance Agent tion 1814 (f) that stipulates the conditions for for Covered California. Visit his website: payment of certain inpatient hospital services www.healthremediesnadoptions.com.

HEALTH BENEFITS CORNER

LOS ANGELES responsibilities it creates which depends on the degree of mental capacity of the party.

This may not be a ground if the party later on came to reason yet continued to freely cohabitate with the spouse.

Fraud is another ground for voiding a marriage. The false representation or concealment must relate to a substantive matter and directly affect the purpose of the party deceived in entering the marriage.

The fraud must go to the very essence of the marital relation before it is sufficient for an annulment. It is not sufficient simply to contend that your spouse turned out to be a lazy, drunken disappointment. Nullity based on fraud has to be filed within four years of discovering the fraud.

Certain marriages that are entered into by force are voidable. Circumstances that meet these standards requires that the forced party’s free will to have been overcome by the spouse such as through the use of threats. These type of Nullity must be filed within four years from the date of marriage. A marriage where the spouse was found to be incapable of physically engaging in copulation may be voided. It can only be filed by the spouse that does not have the physical incapacity and must be filed within four years of the marriage.

Before deciding weather a divorce is the appropriate avenue to end your marriage, parties should evaluate if a Nullity is a viable alternative and weather it serves their best interest.

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

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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 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@aol.com. Visit our website at kenreyeslaw.com.

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Doctor’s whistleblowing leads to illegal retaliation, $10-M settlement

In April 2009, Robert Pedowitz, M.D., was hired by the University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) to chair its Department of Orthopedic Surgery. In the first year of his chairmanship, Dr. Pedowitz reported to top UCLA officials his concerns regarding colleagues who were receiving money from medical-device makers in possible violation of the law and UCLA policy. Most importantly, he was concerned that these colleagues may be compromising their care of in consulting fees from Medtronic, a device patients as a result of their financial ties to maker that was testing its products on these companies. patients. Dr. Pedowitz saw that this orthoHowever, instead of his concerns being pedic surgeon had enrolled patients into addressed, Dr. Pedowitz found himself a Medtronic research study. At the same being removed from his position as depart- time, this doctor was receiving money from ment chair. Though he signed an agreement Medtronic, which may not have been propto remain at UCLA as a regular faculty erly disclosed, as required by regulations. member, he was no longer included in Dr. Pedowitz claimed that because of departmental activities. his disclosures, the employer spread false In 2012, Dr. Pedowitz sued UCLA for rumors about him in the department to retaliation and violation of California’s justify his removal.

Whistleblower Protection Act. He testiThe employer denied any liability, arfied that he reported to UCLA officials an guing that Dr. Pedowitz was removed as orthopedic surgeon who received $250,000 chairman because of his poor leadership and negative interaction with faculty and staff. The employer also said that it investigated all of Dr. Pedowitz’s whistleblower claims but found that none of its doctors violated the law. Finally, the employer argued that the alleged “rumors” about Dr. Pedowitz were mostly true but not common knowledge.

The trial lasted seven weeks. However, before the parties would make their closing arguments to the jury, they announced that they reached a settlement. UCLA, while continuing to deny liability, agreed to pay Dr. Pedowitz $10,000,000. (Dr. Pedowitz had originally sought $723,372 for past lost earnings, and $9,508,679 to $11,801,825 for future lost earnings.)

The California Whistleblower Protection Act protects whistleblowing state employees from retaliation by their employers, when they make a legally ‘protected disclosure,’ or when they provide information to a government or law enforcement agency, where they reasonably believe that a violation of state or federal laws has occurred. The employer cannot also retaliate against an employee who refuses to participate in activities that violate the law.

The law was recently expanded to cover employees who complain only within a company about unlawful practices. It also now applies to cases where the employee truly believed the conduct they complained about was unlawful, even if it was not.

[C. Joe Sayas, Jr., Esq. is trial attorney who has obtained several million dollar recoveries for his clients against insurance companies and employers. He has been selected as a Super Lawyer by the Los Angeles Magazine, featured in the cover of Los Angeles Daily Journal’s Verdicts and Settlements, and is a member of the Million Dollar-Advocates Forum. He is a graduate of Georgetown University Law Center Washington, D.C. and the University of the Philippines. Visit his website at www.joesayaslaw.com or contact his office at (818) 291-0088 for a no-cost inquiry.]

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When would be a good time to sell my property?

California real estate has been plague with a huge mortgage meltdown a few years ago, some parts of California are still feeling the pinch. But in most areas, property values have risen year over year. So, when do we decide to sell and take a profit, or sell and move up to a bigger and better home?

Everything has a season – including selling your house.

Listing at the right moment could mean more money in your pocket. In Real Estate, besides picking the right location, you also have to pick the right time. to close before the New Year so they can Traditionally, spring is the hottest season claim the mortgage deduction on their for real estate. Sales peak in April and tax return, which you could turn to your May and stay strong in June and July. It’s advantage in pressing for a quick deal. a good season for families to move, be- Of course, selling in the hot season isn’t tween school terms and while the weather the whole story. You should pay attenis warm. People have just received their tion to your local housing market and tax refunds, which they can use to help try to list during a seller’s market, when finance a down payment. And the nice there will be more competition among weather and beautiful flowers in spring buyers for your home – which could and early summer make it a great time mean a better price, a quicker closing to show your home. Unless you are in a and fewer conditions on the offer. Your sought after area with outstanding school local real estate agent will be able to tell districts, you’re an exception to the rule. you what the local housing market is like.

In fact, a full 60 percent of America’s Be aware of the underlying factors that moves take place in the summer. But clos- influence the local market. Recent layoffs ing a sale can take weeks, so it’s a good and huge corporation consolidation could idea to list your home early in the season. mean a glut of desperate sellers, possibly Now, that mortgage rates are certain to driving down the market price of your rise, it would be good to get your plans house. Alternatively, you may be in an of selling and moving sooner than later. area of the country where housing prices August brings a lag in sales, as people go are going through the roof. If you are that away on vacation and start to think about will create a rush of buyers who want to the new school year. Then sales surge close a deal before the prices go higher. briefly in the fall before dropping in winter Anticipation of an increase in interest rates as buyers and sellers focus on the holidays. can have a similar impact on the urgency But by January, buyers are out again, of buyers. Mortgage Rates will rise but and sales steadily increase into spring. personally I don’t see a 6% rate in our hoIf you can’t sell in the peak season, consider rizon, I am guessing maybe it would shot listing your house in winter. It may sound up to the low to mid 4’s. I believe our Fed counterintuitive, but you probably already Reserve Chairwoman is very sensitive to have the house decorated and cleaned for the market needs and could not be too agholiday entertaining, so it shouldn’t be hard gressively raising rates to avoid a sudden to get it in shape for showing. Moreover, retraction of our economy. you will have less competition and may Thanks for your inquiry and comments, get a better price. Another plus: buyers in please call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Fiwinter are less likely to waste your time nance Group for your Mortgage and Realty or draw out the closing. They may want Needs. Call Ken at 562-508-7048.

WWII Japan shipwreck salvage unlikely: Palace spokesman Relic found underwater by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen Manila, Philippines |AFP| Saturday 3/7/2015 – The presumed wreck of one of Japan’s most famous World War II battleships whose discovery in the Philippines was announced by Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen this week is unlikely to be salvaged, an official suggested Saturday.

The American billionaire said Wednesday his exploration team had found the Musashi on the bed of the Sibuyan Sea in the central Philippines some 70 years after it was sunk by US forces in World War II. Excited historians have likened the discovery, if verified, to finding the wreck of the Titanic, the famed British passenger liner that sank in the North Atlantic Ocean after colliding with an iceberg in 1912.

President Benigno Aquino’s spokeswoman Abigail Valte said officials of the Philippines’ National Museum are contacting Allen and his team to “coordinate” on what to do with the wreck, which Allen says lies a kilometre (0.6 miles) under water.

However, the Musashi will likely remain where it was found, she told government radio.

“There have been groups in the past that have also been looking for the Musashi and, in fact, a dozen sunken Japanese warships have already been found in various places in the Philippines,” she said.

“As to queries on whether it will be salvaged, the answer is no, these are not normally refloated.”

A 2009 act for the protection and conservation of national cultural heritage will apply to the wreck, she said, describing the wreck as an “underwater archaeological site”.

Under the law all cultural properties belong to the state, and may not be sold nor exported except temporarily for exhibition or research.

Explorations are also banned without National Museum authorization and supervision. Violators can be jailed for up to 10 years if found guilty.

“We do have the relevant law that will apply to this particular case and, of course, we do intend to make sure that law is followed,” Valte said.

National Museum director Jeremy Barns could not be reached for comment by AFP on Saturday.

The 263-metre (863-foot) Musashi was sunk in 1944 amid a US campaign to liberate the Philippines, its former colony, from brutal Japanese World War II occupation.

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Balita

Employment agency must be stopped Q. I’m a nurse by profession. I was convinced by a distant relative to apply for a work permit in Canada to work as a personal support worker outside the Toronto area. The job offer was to work for a nursing home and company that guaranteed 40 hours of work per week. My relative in Toronto works for a consulting company/employment agency in Toronto who promised that the job offer was genuine.

By: Atty. Henry Moyal A labor market opinion was obtained and I paid thousands of dollars. power to do so. Finally, it is illegal for an When I arrived in Canada the nursing home employment agency to charge you fees to said “business was slow” and my hours look for an employer. You should not have were going to be cut. I worked only a few paid anything. hours a week until I finally quit. I then went Q. I’m about to apply for spousal back to the employment agency who said common law sponsorship but when I they will look for an employer to work as entered Canada I mentioned on my work a caregiver. They want more money. I have permit application that I was single when recently seen ads on Kijiji where the same in fact I was married. My spouse and I nursing home is looking for workers and were not on talking terms and separated for offering full time work. What can I do? almost 6 years so I just figured that it would A. You must report this nursing home be easier to file as “single”. All my docuand consulting company for several viola- ments as well as my passport is single too tions. I have not seen all your documents and with that I didn’t declare my daughter so I cannot say for sure what will happen as well as I first thought it’ll be a conflict to you, in particular. However, if you if they’ll ask her birth certificate. Now I’m want others to be saved from this scam, in a common-law relationship in which we then you should let the proper authorities are filing our application before end of this investigate. For example, how did this year. I want to include my daughter on my nursing home obtain a LMIA? Personal application. I need your advice. support workers are not in shortage? SecA. You have misrepresented yourself on ond, how could they offer full time hours your application. You declared the truth on and then after you arrive conveniently your work permit application when in fact lower your hours? If business was so slow it was a lie. I would need more informawhy are they still advertising for full time tion on why you failed to declare your true work? In my opinion, this all sounds like marital status and child before handling the a scheme where the employment agency file. However, in my experience, we are is in a relationship with the nursing home able to overcome it. As an aside, several just to bring you here. They share the fees. people have the false notion that by declarThen, when you arrive, you are so upset ing themselves as “single”, it somehow at the lack of work, you quit. This must expedites a work permit or gives the apbe stopped. As well, the nursing home plicant a better chance of success than if signed an agreement to Service Canada married. That is simply not true. There is no and if they violated the terms of the LMIA truth to such nonsense and it is confusing they should be barred from hiring others. as to why agencies in the Philippines are Only you can stop this and you have the still providing such false information to

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applicants. While it may be easier to simply say “single” (obviously less documents required) it raises all sorts of problems down the road as is evident in your case.

Q. I’m a visitor in Canada and I have to renew my status soon. The problem is that my passport will expire shortly after my expiry date. I applied for renewal of my passport but it will not arrive until well after the expiry date. What do I do?

A. You should have applied for renewal of the passport earlier. However, since you didn’t do that you need to time this carefully. You can apply for the extension now but only receive it for a short duration.

Another option is to not apply until you get the passport and then apply for restoration of status within 90 days. The problem with the second option is (a) that you will have no status once initial expiry passes and (b) if you do not obtain the passport within the statutory 90 day period you must leave Canada or risk enforcement.

Attorney Henry Moyal is a certified and licensed immigration lawyer in Toronto, Ontario. The above article is general advice only and is not intended to act as a legal document. Send questions to Attorney Moyal by email canada@moyal.com or call toll free 1-888-847-2078

Canada, China to grant citizens 10-year visas: Beijing Beijing, China |AFP| Sunday 3/8/2015 - China and Canada will grant each other’s citizens visas valid for up to 10 years, Beijing’s foreign minister announced Sunday.

The agreement, which goes into force on Monday, comes as Western countries increasingly seek Chinese business and investment, and mirrors one with the US announced last year. “China and Canada have just reached an agreement issuing visas to each other’s citizens with the validity period of up to 10 years,” Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said at a press conference on the sidelines of the National People’s Congress, the country’s Communistcontrolled parliament, in Beijing.

No other details were immediately available.

Ottawa last year cancelled a permanent residency visa scheme for foreign investors popular with wealthy Chinese, thousands of whom reportedly had applications pending.

Every year Chinese travellers make more than 100 million “outbound” trips, tourism authorities say.

While most go to Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, they represent a growing and increasingly coveted source of highspending visitors in destination countries.

Beijing and Washington announced in November a reciprocal deal to extend student visa validities to five years, with business and tourist visas stretched out to a decade, up from one year now.

The announcement came during a visit to China by US President Barack Obama.

There were 1.8 million Chinese visitors to the US last year, Obama said, contributing $21 billion to the economy and supporting more than 100,000 jobs.

“This agreement could help us more than quadruple those numbers,” Obama said at the time, describing it as an “important breakthrough which will benefit our economies, bring our people together.”

Canada, US Navy seize 1,000 kg cocaine in Caribbean Ottawa, Canada | | Monday 3/9/2015 – Canadian warships along with the US Navy and Coast Guard seized more than 1,017 kilograms of cocaine while on patrol in the Caribbean, the Canadian military said Monday.

The seizure occurred on March 1 as part of a multilateral operation against trafficking.

HMCS Shawinigan and HMCS Goose Bay took part in the 36-hour operation.

The crew of the suspect vessel were also taken into custody aboard the USS Kauffman.

On February 2, a CP-140 maritime patrol aircraft also assisted the US Coast Guard in the seizure of 530 kilograms of cocaine off the west coast of Guatemala.

Canada measles outbreak spreads Ottawa, Canada |AFP| Wednesday 3/11/2015 – A measles outbreak linked to a flareup of the virus in the United States has spiked in neighboring Canada’s Quebec province to 119 cases, health officials said Wednesday.

And the number of cases is expected to rise, they told a press conference.

They all stem from a single case in the Lanaudiere region northeast of Montreal in early February directly linked to an outbreak clustered around the Disneyland amusement park in California.

Infection disease specialist Johanne Desilets said the virus spread further among children and adults who have not been vaccinated and are members of large families.

“You have to realize that measles are

highly contagious. If one person has measles in a family of 10, everybody will be exposed and will probably get it,” she said.

“And we have over 20 families affected, with families of seven to 10 children (each).”

Officials said a local school has become the epicenter of the larger local outbreak after an infected student showed up for class and unwittingly spread the virus.

Starting Thursday, health officials will offer vaccinations at the school, while those infected remain in self-isolation at home.

Officials said in a statement that others who had contact with the infected group are being monitored for symptoms and the public health authority “is expecting more cases of measles” among them.

Dubai foreign workers stage rare strike Dubai, United Arab Emirates |AFP| Tuesday 3/10/2015 – Hundreds of foreign construction workers staged a rare protest in the Gulf state of Dubai on Tuesday, defying the law against going on strike.

They blocked a road near the famed Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 828 meters (2,716 feet).

Police quickly intervened and the dispute between the workers and their employer was resolved, the govern-

ment’s press service said.

Police said on Twitter they had “coordinated with the employer to resolve the issue of the workers, affirming that their rights will be preserved”.

The Abu Dhabi daily, The National, reported that the dispute was about overtime working hours, not salaries, which the company paid on time.

Dubai police chief Khamis al-Mazyana said on Twitter the dispute was resolved in less than an hour.

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Weekend, Sat. - Fri., March 14 - 20, 2015

Facing your debt problems before they get worse Facing difficult financial times can be a frightening thing for a lot of people. When bill collectors are hounding you, at some point, you realize that something must be done but you just don’t know where to begin or where to go for help.

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Mercado says he got millions in minutes to fund BSP hotel requested by Binay MANILA, Mar 12 (Mabuhay) – Former Makati vice mayor Ernesto Mercado claimed on Thursday that it only took him half an hour or 30 minutes to solicit P30 million from prominent businessmen in the city for the construction of a hotel in Mt. Makiling in Laguna as requested by then Makati City Mayor and now Vice President Jejomar Binay.

Mercado said Binay requested the construction of the hotel at the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) camp in Laguna for the 26th Asia-Pacific Regional Scouts Jamboree held from Dec. 28, 2009 to Jan. 3, 2010. Binay has been the longtime president of the BSP. “Ako po ang nautusan noon ng aming dating mayor, na ngayon ay Vice President na si Vice President Jejomar Binay. Ang sabi po n’ya sa akin ay ganito: ‘Pare, gusto ko naman ang Boy Scouts ay makapagmalaki. Dito sa Pilipinas gagawin ang Regional Jamboree, gusto kong sa Makiling may nakatayong hotel na tutuluyan ng mga adult scouts’…” he said during the ongoing investigation of the Senate blue ribbon subcommittee on the allegedly anomalous deals committed by the past and present officials of Makati City.

(I was ordered by former mayor and now Vice President Jejomar Binay. He told me, “I want the Boy Scouts to have something to be proud of. The Regional Jamboree will be held in the Philippines.

I want to build a hotel in Makiling which adult scouts can use.)

“Masunurin po akong tao. Noong panahon pong ‘yun, ang Boy Scouts po ay walang pera para matayo ang gusali.

Kasama ko ho si Mr. JR Pangilinan, ang aming national treasurer Enrique Lagdameo, kinapalan ko ang akigng mukha sa pagpapadala ng sulat ng panghihingi ng

pera sa malalaking kompanyasa Makati.”

(I am an obedient person. During that time, the Boy Scouts didn’t have the money for the building’s construction. I was with Mr. JR Pangilinan and our national treasure Enrique Lagdameo when I sent solicitation letters to the big companies in Makati.)

“At ipagmamamalki ko po sa loob ng 30 minuto nang ipatawag ko po at hingan ng tulong ang mga prominenteng negosyante sa Makati, sila po ay tumugon na sa loob po ng 30 minuto nakalikom kami ng P30 milyong. At yun pong P30 milyon ang pinagsimulan kugng paano pong napatayo ang hotel ng Boy Scouts sa Makiling,” Mercado added.

(And I am proud that in a matter of 30 minutes, prominent businessmen responded to my request and I was able to collect P30 million. We used that money to have the Boy Scouts hotel in Makiling built.)

Meanwhile, suspended Makati City Mayor Jejomar Erwin “Junjun” Binay on Thursday maintained that he will not leave the city hall as this would be seen as an “act of surrender.”

Binay said that he will not let a member of the Liberal Party take on the reins of the city leadership.

“Kapag umalis kami rito parang binigay na lang namin ito (city hall)…Hindi namin hahayaan na because of this suspension order ay ang pauupuin dito is another member of the Liberal Party,” the Makati mayor said in a press conference.

(If we leave here, it’s like we have surrendered the city hall. We will not allow a member of the Liberal Party to take over because of this suspension order.)

The Liberal Party is the administration party under President Benigno Aquino III. Makati’s incumbent vice mayor is Romulo Peña Jr., a member of the LP.

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Target to cut 1,700 jobs New York, United States |AFP| Tuesday 3/10/2015 - 16:48 GMT | 258 words US retail chain Target said Tuesday it will cut about 1,700 jobs as it moves to trim $2 billion in expenses after a costly withdrawal from the Canadian market.

Target said the 1,700 job cuts will come primarily from headquarters locations.

The company also “permanently closed” 1,400 positions that had been kept open, it said in a statement. The moves were previewed at an investor day last week, but the company released no specifics at the time. “We know that to compete in this evolving retail environment, we must simplify how we work,” Target said.

“While today’s news is difficult, it’s important to know that we will continue to make investments in our business and team – particularly in areas such as digital, personalization, data and analytics, and engineering – to position Target for future success.” Target Corp., which bills itself as an “upscale” discount retailer, last August tapped Brian Cornell as chief executive following a massive data breach of shoppers’ credit card data.

In January Target announced that its Canadian subsidiary, which had filed for bankruptcy protection, would close all of its 133 stores, resulting in the loss of 17,600 jobs. The company took a $5.1 billion charge on the investment.

Target employs 366,000 employees worldwide, with the vast majority in the US, where it has about 1,800 stores. The company is based in the midwestern state of Minnesota, where it has about 30,260 full- and part-time employees.

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OPINION

Napeñas’ camp: Why isn’t Aquino taking responsibility for Mamasapano ops?

MANILA, Mar 10 (Mabuhay) -- A day after President Benigno Aquino III blamed former Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) director Director Getulio Napeñas Jr. for the Mamasapano clash that killed 44 commandos, the beleaguered police officer on Tuesday through a lawyer hit back at the Commander-in-Chief.

Vitaliano Aguirre, Napeñas legal counsel, said the tragic encounter with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front, with which the government has an existing peace agreement, was triggered by Aquino allowing his friend, then suspended PNP chief Director General Alan Purisima, to control the sensitive operation to arrest high-value targets in alleged MILF territory.

“Bakit kahapon hindi man lang binanggit nag naging papel ni General Purisima? Bakit walang responsibility ang isang Pangulo?,” Aguirre said. “Ang unang-unang katanungan diyan ay bakit pinayagan niya (Aquino) na ang mangasiwa sa napakaselan na operasyon ay isang suspendidong chief ng PNP? Sa palagay ko sa kautusang iyan, sa nangyaring iyan, diyan nagsimula ang lahat,” he added.

It has been reported that it was Purisima who was calling the shots for Oplan Exodus, the PNP-SAF operation aimed at arresting Malaysian terrorist Zulkifli bin Hir alis Marwan and Filipino bomb-maker Abdul Basit Usman.

Purisima had earlier denied the reports, saying that he was only involved in supplying the intelligence packet and giving advice regarding the operation.

In a gathering of Christian leaders in Malacañang on Tuesday, Aquino enumerated the errors allegedly committed by Napeñas during the Mamasapano operation, which resulted to the high number of casualties on the side of the PNP. Aquino said he had instructed Napeñas to coordinate with the military days before the execution of the operation, contrary to the latter’s claim that there was an agreement that the coordination would be “time on target” or when the SAF troopers were already in the target area.

Aquino also said that he was “fooled” by Napeñas by giving him wrong information about the operation.

Aguirre indicated that if Aquino was indeed after proper coordination, he would not have allowed Interior Secretary Mar Roxas and PNP acting officer-in-charge Deputy Director General Leonardo Espina to be kept in the dark about the operation.

“Bakit ang naging parang superior ni Napeñas ay si Purisima na isa nang suspended [official] nung January 9, nung nagkaroon ng briefing? Bakit ang dalawang matataas na pinuno ng kapulisan, si General Espina at Secretary Roxas ay wala doon sa briefing na yun?” Aguirre said.

Aguirre was referring to a briefing about Oplan Exodus at the Bahay Pangarap in Malacañang on Jan. 9.

In previous hearings of the Senate and the House of Representatives about the Mamasapano incident, Napeñas said that only him, Purisima, PNP Intelligence Group director Senior Superintendent Fernando Mendez and Aquino were present during the said meeting.

“Kung talagang inutusan niya si General Napeñas na i-coordinate yung dalawang opisyal na yun (Roxas and Espina), bakit hindi siya T Hwala E mismo ang nagpatawag nang makita niya na sila doon sa briefing? Sandali lang naman ipatawag sila,” Aguirre said.

In a hearing at the Senate last month, NapeñasWWW.U admitted Aquino S A S I A N P that O S T.COM neither looked for nor required the presence of Espina during their briefing at the Bahay Pangarap on January 9.

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Aquino not skirting issue on Purisima’s role in Mamasapano mission – Palace exec

MANILA, Mar 10 (Mabuhay) –President Benigno Aquino III is not skirting the issue on the role of resigned Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Alan Purisima in the deadly January 25 Mamasapano mission, a Malacañang official said Tuesday.

“Wala namang pag-iwas doon sa role ni General Purisima,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said.

Pressed further why Aquino attributed all the operational errors supposedly committed during the Mamasapano operation to former Special Action Force (SAF) chief Getulio Napeñas Jr. and not to Purisima, Coloma said the President was not out to pin the blame on anyone.

He said Aquino only wanted the public to understand the “circumstances” that led to the Mamasapano incident, which left 60 people dead, including 44 police commandos, and imperiled the ongoing peace process with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF).

“Ang pangunahing layunin ng salaysay ay di pagbunton ng sisi ngunit pag-unawa at pag-intindi kung ano ba talaga ang naganap. It is not to hit blame but to tell the story as it has actually happened para maunawaan ng kababayan natin ang nangyari,” Coloma said in the television interview.

Facing Christian religious leaders in Malacañang on Monday, Aquino enumerated supposed erroneous decisions made by Napeñas during the Mamasapano mission, which led to a high number

of police fatalities.

The President said Napeñas, the ground commander during the mission, fooled and disobeyed him during the operation.

During his narration, Aquino only briefly mentioned Purisima’s role in the mission, when he admitted that he coursed instructions for Napeñas through Purisima, who was suspended at the time of the operation over a graft complaint.

Aquino added that Purisima informed him that artillery support was already provided to the embattled police commandos.

During a Senate hearing month, however, Lt. Gen. Rustico Guerrero, head of the Western Mindanao Command, said no support had been provided to the SAF when Purisima relayed this information to Aquino.

Some lawmakers who met with Aquino last month said the President felt he had been lied to by Purisima, his longtime pal, during the Mamasapano mission. The 44 SAF members were killed when the operation to arrest two high-profile terrorists resulted in a clash with the MILF and its breakaway group, the Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF). The clash occurred despite the peace agreement signed by the government with the MILF in March last year.

The MILF, which said it was acting on selfdefense, claimed it lost 18 of its men in the encounter. Five civilians were also reportedly killed in the incident. (MNS)

Landmark medical marijuana bill introduced in US Congress Washington, United States |AFP| Tuesday 3/10/2015 – US senators on Tuesday introduced the most comprehensive legislation on medical marijuana ever brought before Congress, a bipartisan effort aimed at ending federal restrictions on the increasingly accepted treatment.

Twenty-three states already allow the use of cannabis to treat medical conditions like multiple sclerosis (MS) and epilepsy, but federal law still exposes users of the drug to potential investigation and arrest.

“Highly-trained officials in our country – doctors and scientists, medical personnel—are unable to prescribe and recommend drugs that could alleviate the pain and suffering of their patients,” Senate Democrat Cory Booker told reporters.

“Today we join together to say enough is enough,” he added. “Our federal government has long overstepped the boundaries of common sense, fiscal prudence and compassion with its marijuana laws.”

The Compassionate Access, Research Expansion and Respect States (CARERS) Act would remove federal penalties and restrictions for producing, distributing and possessing marijuana for medical pur-

poses, provided there is compliance with state law.

It would give military veterans access to medical marijuana in states where it is legal, and it would crucially allow financial institutions to provide banking services to marijuana businesses.

It would also reclassify marijuana from “Schedule I” to “Schedule II,” eliminating current barriers to research and recognizing the acceptable medical use of the drug.

Senator Rand Paul, a likely 2016 Republican presidential candidate, pointed to the “tens of thousands of people in our country who have diseases that are incurable and that would like to seek palliative treatment.”

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand said current law was “clearly a case of ideology getting in the way of scientific progress.”

The New York Democrat highlighted the case of constituents whose sick children were in desperate need of treatment unavailable through traditional medications.

Under current law, people who travel to states where medical marijuana is legal would be subject to arrest for crossing state borders and returning home with the drug.

Lawsuit challenges legality of NSA online snooping

Washington, United States |AFP| Tuesday 3/10/2015 – A lawsuit filed Tuesday by the operator of Wikipedia and other organizations challenges the US government’s mass online surveillance programs, claiming that tapping into the Internet “backbone” is illegal.

The lawsuit was filed in Maryland federal court by the Wikimedia Foundation, Amnesty International USA, Human Rights Watch and other organizations.

It said the effort by the National Security Agency and other intelligence services “exceeds the scope of the authority that Congress provided” and violates US constitutional guarantees.

“We’re filing suit today on behalf of our readers and editors everywhere,” said Jimmy Wales, founder of Wikipedia, in a statement.

“Surveillance erodes the original promise of the Internet: an open space for collaboration and experimentation, and a place free from fear.”

The lawsuit claims that by tapping into the In-

ternet backbone, “the NSA is seizing Americans’ communications en masse while they are in transit, and it is searching the contents of substantially all international text-based communications,” effectively sweeping up data of many people unrelated to the effort to thwart terrorism.

“Rather than limit itself to monitoring Americans’ communications with the foreign targets, the NSA is spying on everyone, trying to find out who might be talking or reading about those targets,” said Patrick Toomey of the American Civil Liberties Union, which is representing the organizations.

“As a result, countless innocent people will be caught up in the NSA’s massive net.”

The lawsuit argues that based on documents leaked by former NSA contractor Edward Snowden, the NSA intercepts virtually all Internet communications flowing across the network of high-capacity cables, switches, and routers that make up the Internet backbone.

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You reap what you sow

Recently, various labor groups congregated at the historic Mendiola bridge to commemorate the 28th anniversary of the “Mendiola Massacre,” with the hope of getting justice for the families of the slain farmers. It you may recall, on January 22, 1987, police and military personnel, on orders reportedly emanating from Malacañang, violently dispersed a farmers’ march at Mendiola bridge. The incident left 13 protesting farm workers dead while 20 others were injured, some of them critically, when police By: Chito Parazo and military personnel opened fire on the court. The massacre took place during the marchers. early administration of the late President After nearly three decades, not even one Cory Aquino, mother of current Philippine police or military personnel involved in the President Noynoy Aquino. shooting has been prosecuted or charged in In the recent rally, instead of getting

OUTSIDE LOOKING IN

Pacquiao-Mayweather: Different styles, different motivations Since when has a press conference of a sports event had that much luxury of being held in a big venue such as the Nokia Theatre in Los Angeles and feature distinguished personalities walking the red carpet amidst endless flashes from hundreds of cameras from photographers amateurs and professionals alike?

The spectacular event occurred during the midweek to formally provide the venue to introduce two great sports figures, eight time boxing champion Manny Pacquiao and Floyd By: Rey Andres Mayweather who boasts of having an un- courage which Pacquiao exemplify with beaten slate in his 47 professional fights. his life in the ring.

Camps of both boxers exuded comSome of those present at the press conposed demeanors as they were presented ference probably couldn’t care less about to a very appreciative crowd of some 600 the boxing promoter’s historical recollecphotographers and the public at one of the tions, but to the Filipinos in the crowd, his largest indoor stages in the U.S. dealing with snatches of Philippine history Finally, the two ring gladiators, each and how it helped in shaping their character with solid followings will collide in what struck a significant chord in their national is considered in the boxing world as the pride and having no less and having a rerichest ever. The scheduled bout was five spected sports figure doing the testimonial years in the making and will be held on for them.

May 2 at the MGM Grand Arena in Las In his short remarks, Pacquiao exhibVegas. The staggering amount involved ited his usual respectable demeanor by baffles the imagination of even the most acknowledging his humble beginnings and seasoned organizers. The conditions set how thankful he was to God for “making forth for the fight to happen sometimes on something out of nothing” clearly referthe ridiculous but had to be agreed on for ring to his unprecedented accumulation of the fight to take place, for the interest of blessings because of the sport of boxing. It the millions who have waited for so long was an inspirational tidbits that placed into to see who will be the last man standing. proper perspectives his desire to reach out Boxing promoter Bob Arum of chal- to those who would listen to him that he lenger Pacquiao had in his brief remarks owed everything to his Creator . engaged in historical and nostalgic recolMayweather, on the other hand, had lections about the country of his ward and a different tenor when his turn to speak recounted the events of the holocaust and came. Although more subdued unlik in his World War II which where periods that previous appearances, he recounted how put to the test the sterling qualities of the winning was what mattered most since Filipinos. day one of his boxing career. “Be a winner Arum reminisced how the persecuted and be the best you can be” was a mantra Jews found refuge in the Philippines that guided his career which earned for through the effort of then Commonwealth him millions of dollars. Being dubbed as President Manuel Quezon and World War the pound-for-pound champion buoys his II event that strengthened RP-US relations spirit up and is not prepared to relinquish with the Philippine freedom lovers gallant- the label as yet. ly fighting side-by-side with their AmeriBoth gladiators are said to be preparing can counterparts to repel the Japanese. And very hard for this fight of a lifetime and even in the darkest period of defeat, the tens of thousands of their fans are eager Filipinos for four year continued to wage to know which motivation would prevail guerilla battle in the mountains putting to strongest as final the bell signals the end the fore the Filipinos’ determination and of an epic encounter.

AROUND TOWN

Cerritos Mayor Meets Pacquiao: With his family in tow, Mayor Mark Pulido meets with Manny Pacquiao at his Los Angeles residence to exchange pleasantries. Both Pulido and Pacquiao have exemplified sterling qualities of Filipinos that enable them to set good examples in their chosen fields. In photo are Church Leader Lemuel Barrios, Gloria Pulido, Mark Jr., Mayor Pulido, his daughter Malia, Manny Pacquiao and Sandy Almuena, owner of Josephine-Cerritos Restaurant.

even a semblance of sympathy from the government, the grieving families of the slain farmers were instead rebuked by Malacanang officials, stating that President Noynoy is not accountable for the deaths of farmers demanding agrarian reforms during the term of his mother.

Many farmers have lost or sacrificed their lives with the hope of achieving their elusive dream of owning the land they have been promised through agrarian reform.

But to this day, there is no real genuine land reform in the Philippines. Some farmers are saying that the distribution of land titles by the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) in 2013 “is nothing but a hoax.” Under DAR policy, farmers will get a certified true copy of land title. But for them to receive a land title from the Landbank of the Philippines, farmers will have to pay the government amortization for 30 years. Once a farmer is unable to pay that for three consecutive years, the title will be forfeited.

Farmers were one in saying that the scheme by the DAR is not based on real social justice. They claimed if the government is really sincere in implementing a genuine land reform based on social justice, farmers should not be required to pay for the land.

The senseless deaths of farmers at the hands of the police and military in 1987 triggered a nationwide protest that rocked the administration of President Cory. The protesting farmers were marching towards Malacañang palace to demand fulfillment of the promises made regarding land reform during the presidential campaign of then Cory Aquino, as well as the distribution of lands at no cost to farmers.

The massacre also forced the communist leaders – Satur Ocampo and Luis Jalandoni – to quit from the negotiating table that could’ve ended the NPA rebellion.

President Cory and her family were one of the largest landlord families in the Philippines. The controversial Hacienda

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Luisita is owned by the family of President Cory and her son “Noynoy.” For so many years, the powerful Aquino-Cojuangco clan successfully eluded land distribution through their political influence.

When President Cory officially announced her candidacy on December 3, 1985, land reform was one of the bastions of her presidential campaign. She even made promises to farmers that once elected as president, Hacienda Luisita will be given to them. It was said that she was forced to make the promise to entice farm workers all over the country to join her political rallies.

When President Cory delivered her first policy speech on January 16, 1986 in Makati, she said that “we are determined to implement a genuine land reform program to enable farmers to become self reliant and prosperous.” She followed this up in another speech while campaigning in Davao where she stated that “land to the tillers must become a reality instead of a slogan.” President Cory, to the delight of the crowd, even went further by saying “if you will probably ask me: will I also apply it to my family’s Hacienda Luisita? my answer is YES.” As we probably all know, this is a BIG LIE. Cory never had any intention of giving up her family’s vast track of land. It’s a shame that her political allies are saying that she is the mother of agrarian reform in the country. True, she did land reform vast track of lands owned by rich people that were not her allies. She gave away lands owned by the political nemesis of her late husband, Senator Ninoy Aquino. But not theirs – Hancienda Luisita.

President Cory Aquino, months after being diagnosed with colon cancer, died at the age of 76. It was probably a very painful experience she suffered during her ordeal. I do not like to think that it is a KARMA. However, I do believe in the saying “you reap what you sow.” Does that extend to President Noynoy? That is for you to decide.

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FOOD & DINING

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FAMILY FEATURES

rom full-course brunches to simple sit-down dinners, Easter celebrations are a time to enjoy family, friends and the delicious tastes of spring.

However elaborate the festivities, a rich and creamy dessert is the perfect finale to any Easter gathering. Made from fresh milk and real cream, PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese is the high-quality ingre­dient that makes sweets stand out.

These fresh dessert ideas all feature everyone’s favorite indulgence — cheesecake — along with other lively flavors, such as coconut, lemon and blueberry. Desserts this delicious will have your guests hopping up for seconds. For these and other recipe ideas, visit www.creamcheese.com.

Double Lemon Cheesecake Bars Prep time: 35 minutes Total time: 7 hours, 15 minutes Servings: 16 52 vanilla wafers, finely crushed (about 2 cups)

3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

4 eggs, divided

4 packages (8 ounces each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened 1 3/4 cups sugar, divided

3 tablespoons flour

1 tablespoon lemon zest 1/3 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons), divided 1/2 teaspoon vanilla

2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/2 cup water Heat oven to 325°F. Line 13-by-9-inch pan with parchment paper, with ends of paper extending over sides.

Mix wafer crumbs and butter until blended; press onto bottom of prepared pan. Bake 10 minutes.

Separate 1 egg; refrigerate yolk until ready to use. Beat cream cheese, 1 cup sugar, flour, lemon zest, 2 tablespoons lemon juice and vanilla in large bowl with mixer until blended. Add egg white and remaining 3 whole eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each until just blended. Pour over crust.

Bake 40 minutes or until center is

almost set. Cool 1 hour. Refrigerate 4 hours.

Mix cornstarch and remaining sugar in medium saucepan; gradually stir in water and remaining lemon juice until blended.

Bring just to boil on medium heat, stirring constantly; cook and stir until clear and thickened. Lightly beat reserved egg yolk in small bowl with fork until blended; stir in 2 tablespoons of hot cornstarch mixture.

Return to remaining cornstarch mixture in saucepan; stir until blended. Cook 1 minute or until thickened, stirring constantly. Cool slightly.

Spoon lemon glaze over cheesecake.

Refrig-erate 1 hour or until firm. Use parchment handles to remove cheesecake from pan before cutting to serve.

Note: This lemon glaze can be prepared ahead of time. Cool, then refrigerate up to 8 hours before spooning over individual slices of cheesecake. Garnish with 1/2 cup blueberries, lemon peel and fresh mint leaves.

Easter Mini Cheesecakes

Prep time: 20 minutes Total time: 3 hours, 20 minutes Servings: 18

1 cup graham cracker crumbs 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided

3 tablespoons butter or margarine, melted

3 packages (8 ounces each)

PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1 teaspoon vanilla

3 eggs

1 cup plus 2 tablespoons BAKER’S ANGEL FLAKE Coconut, toasted 54 speckled malted milk eggs (about 9 ounces) Heat oven to 325°F. Mix graham crumbs, 2 tablespoons sugar and butter; press onto bottoms of 18 paper-lined muffin cups.

Beat cream cheese, vanilla and remaining sugar with mixer until blended.

Add eggs, 1 at a time, mixing on low speed after each just until blended. Spoon over crusts.

Bake 25–30 minutes or until centers are

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almost set. Cool completely. Refrigerate 2 hours.

Top each cheesecake with 1 tablespoon coco­nut; shape to resemble bird’s nest. Fill with malted milk eggs.

Note: To soften cream cheese, place com­pletely unwrapped package of cream cheese in micro­­­waveable bowl. Microwave on high 10 seconds or just until softened.

Add 15 seconds for each additional package of cream cheese.

Blueberry Streusel Cheesecake

Prep time: 15 minutes Total time: 6 hours, 45 minutes Servings: 16 1 1/2 cups plus 3 tablespoons flour, divided 1 1/3 cups sugar, divided 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 3/4 cup cold butter, cut up

4 packages (8 ounces each) PHILADELPHIA Cream Cheese, softened

1 tablespoon vanilla extract

1 cup BREAKSTONE’S or KNUDSEN Sour Cream

4 eggs

2 cups fresh blueberries Heat oven to 325°F. Mix 1 1/2 cups flour, 1/3 cup sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl. Cut in butter with pastry blender or 2 knives until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Reserve 1/2 cup; press remaining onto bottom of 9-inch spring­form pan. Bake 25 minutes or until lightly browned.

Beat cream cheese, remaining flour, remaining sugar and vanilla with mixer until well blended. Add sour cream; mix well. Add eggs, 1 at a time, beating on low speed after each just until blended. Pour over crust. Top with berries and reserved crumb mixture.

Bake 1 hour 25 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes or until center is almost set. Run knife around rim of pan to loosen cake; cool before removing rim.

Refrigerate 4 hours.

Note: You can substitute cream cheese with Neufchatel cheese, or fresh blueberries with 1 (16-ounce) package frozen blueberries. Garnish with additional berries or cinnamon just before serving.

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ENTERTAINMENT

For Sharon, there’s no place like home “I just don’t belong anywhere else.”

These were the exact words of Sharon Cuneta after she was welcomed back by ABS-CBN executives on Monday for her contract signing with the Kapamilya network.

Cuneta left ABS-CBN more than three years ago when she transferred to the No. 3 network TV5. Last year, however, she shocked the entertainment business when she decided to end her lucrative contract with TV5 and return to what she considers her “only home.”

“There are no words to describe how happy I am. It’s overwhelmingly wonderful. Alam mo ‘yung pagpasok mo pa lang, ‘Hay nakauwi na rin.’ Parang nagbakasyon lang. Pag-uwi, walang nagbago sa pagtingin ng mga kapamilya mo,” she said.

According to Cuneta, she was like a “fish out of water” when she left ABSCBN. “I can’t say I regret [transferring to TV5] 100% percent because I made friends naman with the other station. Pero parang fish na out of water, tapos pagpasok ko dito, I’m breathing again normally.

I really feel na I really don’t belong anywhere else but here,” she said.

The veteran actress admitted it was very touching that the ABS-CBN bosses, with whom she had several secret meetings after decided to leave TV5, did not even ask a single question when she expressed her desire to come back.

“We never naman lost touch but not once did we ever talk about work. Pero si Tita Charo (Santos-Concio, ABS-CBN president and CEO) was one of the first to know na wala na ako sa nilipatan kong station. It was out of respect because she’s like my mother and sister combined. Parang months later, may secret meetings na kami,” Cuneta narrated.

“It was so touching kasi I was very humbled by my experiences in the last three years. To be welcomed home with open arms, to be welcomed home with open hearts, walang nagbago. Parang nandito lang ako last week. There is really no place like home,” she added.

Admitting she also thought of just quitting showbiz, Cuneta said it was her fans who motivated her to make a comeback.

“Yung maramdaman mo na – kasi nga

I went through a very humbling experience –‘yung parang dapat siguro hindi na maniniwala sa ‘yo, biglang malalaman mo naghihintay lang pala? How would you feel? Make that times one million, that’s how I feel.”

“There are no words that exist to describe my feeling. Wala rin namang susuporta sa ‘yo kung walang magsasabi na ‘Please come back’ or ‘We miss you.’

Malaki ang effect sa akin nun,” she said.

Meanwhile, the retuning Kapamilya actress said she is looking forward to start working on “Your Face Sounds Familiar,” her first project with ABS-CBN after inking a contract with the TV station on Monday.

“We are focusing on ‘Your Face Sounds Familiar’ first. It’s a very famous show in 33 countries. I was given the PowerPoint and some footage of the US version and my daughters loved it,” she said.

On the show, Cuneta will be part of the jury along with Jed Madela and Gary Valenciano.

“It’s going to be exciting and fun. March 14 na. We are taping na this week. The point of this show is to have fun. You can just imagine how big it’s going to be for every contestant,” she said.

But aside from the upcoming program, does she have other projects lined up?

“Ang alam ko there are some projects in the works. They are taking their time because they want those to be really perfect. For now, I’m just really happy to be here and to be doing this show,” she said.

“I see myself doing a teleserye here.

But at this point, I am in the best hands I’ve ever been. I’m in the hands of people who care for me and love me. To be in the hands of people that you have worked with before, and you are sure that they love you, I’m just happy,” she said.

Now that she and her daughter, actress KC Concepcion, are finally in the same network, Cuneta said she would also love to act with her, as well as her former husband, Gabby Concepcion.

“I’m open to anything – me and KC, me and other leading men, former leading men, exes, ex-husband. Gusto ko lang ipaalam sa inyo na kapag wala kaming naging project [ni Gabby], siya ang may ayaw. At this point, I’m very very open to it,” she said. (MNS)

Coco, Julia in no rush for romance

BUSY work schedules have kept Kapamilya talents Coco Martin and Julia Montes from entertaining romance at this point.

Julia, who is turning 20 this March, said in the press launch of “Wansapanataym Presents: Yamishita’s Treasures” that she still has a lot of plans with her showbiz career.

Coco, on the other hand, shared he is focused on providing a better life for his family.

“May mga bagay na hindi dapat minamadali at iba’t iba ang proseso ng tao.

Marami pa kaming priorities and ayokong mag-take advantage na pag nasa soap or magkasama kayo ay mangliligaw ka,” Coco said.

“Ako ang gusto ko, if ever lang, ang gusto ko, kung ano man ako, yun ang magugustuhan niya sa akin. Walang pretentions na parang gentleman ka lang.”

But if the time comes that they have something to share to their fans and supporters, Coco said they will not hide anything from the public.

“Oo naman (aaminin ko). Honestly from my indie days ko, wala namang naitago.

Ang importante lang ay nagta-trabaho ako para din sa pamilya ko. Hindi naman ako showbiz. Kung wala naman akong dapat itago at wala naman akong ginagawang masama, anong reason para itago,” he said.

Julia said she is happy that Coco remains a very dear friend.

“Magkakilala na talaga kami. Ilang taon pa lang kami and wala pa siya sa ABS and hindi pa siya Coco Martin. Siya din yung pinaka-close kay lola,” she said.

Sharon Cuneta

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COMMUNITY

Balita

2 Fil-Ams win in municipal elections in LA county

By Nimfa Rueda

the city council.

Pulido is one of three Fil-Ams currently serving as city mayor in LA County, the most populous county in the US and home to an estimated half a million Fil-Ams. The two others are Duarte Mayor Tzeitel Paras-Caracci and Bellflower Mayor Sonny Santa Ines.

Other Fil-Ams on city councils in LA County include Artesia Mayor Pro Tem Victor Manalo, Walnut Councilmember Antonio Cartagena and Sierra Madre Councilmember Rachelle Arizmendi.

“I am humbled and honored for this opportunity to continue serving the residents of our beloved hometown community,”

PHL Consulate opens its doors at new location

LA-Makati Sister City fundraising induction ball gala May 3

LOS ANGELES – Two FilipinoAmericans were re-elected to serve a four-year term on the city councils of Cerritos and Carson in Los Angeles County, according to semi-official results released Wednesday Mark Pulido, currently mayor of Cerritos, topped the city council elections for the second time. He drew the most votes ever recorded in the city’s election history when he was first elected to the council in 2011. Pulido is also the first Fil-Am on the city council.

Elito Santarina, mayor pro tem of Carson, was re-elected to his fourth term on

Los Angeles, March 2, 2015 – The Philippine Consulate General is pleased to announce that we have opened our doors to serve the public at its new location at 3435 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 550, Los Angeles, CA 90010.

The change of location, that is four blocks from its present location, is part of a wider effortof the Consulate to deliver better client experience and to enhance the image and representation of the Philippines in Southern California.

Parking with validation is available at the Equitable Bank Building.

Experts hike risk of big California quake in next 30 years

LA-Makati Sister City fundraising induction ball gala May 3 The Los Angeles-Makati Sister City, Inc. will hold its First Fundraising Induction Ball Gala on May 3, 2015 at Omni Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

In partnership with ABS-CBN Foundation International, the event will showcase the best in Filipino and Filipino American talent in the arts and fashion as well as provide an experience to the sister city organizations of how Filipinos throw a party. More details about the Gala will be published here in Weekend Balita for the next several weeks.

Through the planned mission of the LA-Makati Sister City tentatively set for the year 2015, the fundraising and other projects of the organization will also strive to instigate the exchange of culture, arts, and celebrate the diversity between the two cities. Aside from this, there are networking events and cultural sharing programs planned throughout each year.

The Los Angeles-Makati Sister City Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting arts, culture and tourism between the two cities: Los Angeles in the United States, and Makati in the Philippines.

Makati is one of the twenty five sister cities of Los Angeles. The sister cities program’s vision is to achieve a smaller planet through better relationships, closer communications and ever-stronger collaborations between our international Sister City partners and the people of Los Angeles. It continues a nonpolitical, people to people diplomatic tradition established by the city government with a high degree of quality civic involvement in the disciplines of culture, education, communication, inter-

said Pulido after the semi-official results of the March 3 elections showed him leading the race.

“We have accomplished a lot during my first term on the city council, but there is much work still to be done – especially as we continue torecover from the recession.” Santarina, a retired teacher who hails from Nueva Ecija, campaigned on his work advocating for seniors and youth groups and supporting anti-alcohol and anti-drug initiatives in the city.

“Let’s continue to work together in improving the safety, wellness, education , economic development, and civic engagement for Carson’s youth, families,

neighborhoods, and future generations,” Santarina said.

Pulido, who is also the district director for Congressman Alan Lowenthal (DLong Beach), said his reelection campaign gave him the opportunity to engage the community in a conversation on how to keep the city moving forward .

Pulido previously served as a legislative consultant with the California State Assembly in the Los Angeles offices of Assembly Speakers Robert M. Hertzberg, Herb J. Wesson Jr. and Fabian Núñez. He was also a three-term ABC Unified School District board member, serving from 2001 to 2011.

The Los Angeles-Makati Sister City, Inc. will hold its First Fundraising Induction Ball Gala on May 3, 2015 at Omni Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

In partnership with ABS-CBN Foundation International, the event will showcase the best in Filipino and Filipino American talent in the arts and fashion as well as provide an experience to the sister city organizations of how Filipinos throw a party. More details about the Gala will be published here in Weekend Balita for the next several weeks.

Through the planned mission of the LA-Makati Sister City tentatively set for the year 2015, the fundraising and other projects of the organization will also strive to instigate the exchange of culture, arts, and celebrate the diversity between the two cities. Aside from this, there are networking events and cultural sharing programs planned throughout each year.

The Los Angeles-Makati Sister City Inc. is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting arts, culture and tourism between the two cities: Los Angeles in the United States, and Makati in the Philippines.

Makati is one of the twenty five sister cities of Los Angeles. The sister cities program’s vision is to achieve a smaller planet through better relationships, closer communications and ever-stronger collaborations between our international Sister City partners and the people of Los Angeles. It continues a nonpolitical, people

to people diplomatic tradition established by the city government with a high degree of quality civic involvement in the disciplines of culture, education, communication, international trade, travel & tourism, and sports & recreation.

A sister city, county, or state relationship is a broad-based, longterm partnership between two communities in two countries. A sister city, county, or state relationship is officially recognized after the highest elected or appointed official from both cities execute a sister city agreement.

A city may have any number of sister cities, with community involvement ranging from a half dozen to hundreds of volunteers.

In addition to volunteers, sister city organizations may include representatives from nonprofits, Atty. Abraham L. Lim (right) with former Philippine municipal governments, the pri- Tourism Director Annie Cuevas-Lim and 4th District vate sector, and other civic orga- Los Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge. nizations. Sister city relationships offer the supervisory authority over the various flexibility to form connections between sister city chapter and committees from his communities that are mutually beneficial office as well as provide support services and which address issues that are most for the entire sister city organization.

For sponsorships and information about relevant for partners.

The Los Angeles-Makati Sister City Inc. the event, please contact Atty. Abraham is under the stewardship of 4th District Los L. Lim at mistah67@hotmail.com or Angeles City Councilman Tom LaBonge. 323.888.9788. Tickets can be purchased Thru the sister city umbrella organization at Eventbrite url: https://www.eventbrite.

Los Angeles Sister City Inc. President Tom com/e/los-angeles-makati-sister-city-incGilmore, Councilman LaBonge exercises induction-ball-tickets-15855031827.

By Hannah De Castro-Abinuman

or for enhancing a live action scene with the use of computer-generated-imagery (CGI), it is the lighting artist role to add the finishing touches to a project. And this is the role of Winston Quitasol as a lighting and compositing artist. Indeed, an essential part of any movie.

“After watching Star Wars, I knew I wanted to have a career in film,” said Quitasol when asked how he decided to go into his line of work. Years later, he studied Television, Radio and Film at the California State University of Long Beach.

And he landed his first gig in film as a production assistant in the movie Ghost in 1990. He later on switched to visual effects and animation as a lighting and compositing artist. And now has more than 50 film and television credits to his resume.

Although he is now living his dream, it was not an easy road for Quitasol. His parents initially did not support his decision to try his luck in Hollywood. He was born in the Philippines but moved to the United States when he was 4 years old.

And even though he was raised in the US, his parents still maintained their traditional Filipino values and principles. Just like

Filipino artist goes big in Hollywood Winston Quitasol may not be a name familiar to many. But a lot of people have seen his work. If you watched a Hollywood movie any time between 1992 to now, chances are, you’ve already seen at least one of the films he worked on. As a visual effects and lighting artist, Winston Quitasol has worked on various live action and animated films such as The Matrix Reloaded, Ironman 3, I Am Legend, Spiderman 2, The Aviator, Ghostrider, Tangled, Frozen, and most recently, in the academy award winner for best animated feature film - “Big Hero 6.”

In the fields of visual effects and digital animation, lighting is a significant element. It sets the mood and creates depth and realism in a scene, both in live action and in digital animation. The lighting artist adds emotion to the scene by adding light to certain elements in the images. It is his duty to ensure that the visual effects and live-action elements blend seamlessly; as though they both exist in the same environment.

Whether it is for a fully animated film

most Filipinos, his parents wanted him to have a more traditional and stable job, like a doctor, lawyer or engineer. Luckily, Quitasol proved that he had what it takes to make it in the film industry.

“I had to work very hard to get to where I am today,” said Quitasol. In his journey to pursue his dream, he experienced a lot of road blocks. But Filipinos are very resilient. And this was very evident in Quitasol’s character. He actually saved all his rejection letters to keep him motivated.

Once in a while, he would read them in order to push himself to do better. Truly, he is an inspiration to anyone. “My advice to the Filipinos, and anyone who has a dream is to just go for it. But you also have to put in the work and get the right schooling,” said Quitasol.

Quitasol has been part of a multitude of praise-worthy projects. But from his long list of accolades, his favorites are “Spiderman 2” for live action, which, won an academy award for special effects. For animated short film, the Oscar winner, “Paperman.” And for animated full feature films, his favorites are “Frozen” and “Big Hero 6.”

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

One glass of wine makes you sexier Drinking just one glass of wine makes you appear more attractive than when you’re sober, according to British researchers who caution that drinking more makes the effect go away.

In the study, a group made up of 20 men and 20 women, all of who were heterosexual, were asked to rate the attractiveness of people in a series of photos.

The models in the photos were depicted after drinking either 250 ml of wine or 500 ml of wine. Regardless of the case, all models had also been photographed sober.

Study participants rated the models as being more attractive after drinking one

glass of wine – 250 ml – than they were in their sober photos.

Yet the models who had drank more than one glass – 500 ml – didn’t bring in the same high rankings, at least not when compared to their sober photos.

To explain their results, the research team presumes the increased allure comes from increased blood flow that brings on facial flushing.

Light drinking could also boost the spirits in a manner that becomes visible in subtle smiles and increased relaxation.

The study was published in the journal Alcohol and Alcoholism.

Spring 2015 makeup: It’s all about the contrast (Relaxnews ) – Why choose between intense colors and subtle pastels? This spring, makeup brands are combining the two in collections centered on contrast.

As always, makeup fans are advised to choose between dramatic eyes or vibrant lips, making one or the other the centerpiece of the look.

Explosive lips at Chanel With its Rêverie Parisienne (“Parisian Reverie”) collection, the French brand chose to emphasize the pout.

The Chanel Rouge Allure lipstick is offered in two new colors: Insaisissable (bright coral red) and Badine (soft pink). Two new hues of the Rouge Allure Velvet lipstick are also in the mix: La Pétillante is another vibrant coral red, while La Romanesque is Giorgio Armani is betting on hot colors this spring with the a dark fuchsia.

Fuchsia Maharajah collection. ©Giorgio Armani Beauty In contrast, the eyes are With these bold shadows, Dior is placmore natural thanks to two new versions of ing the eyes in the spotlight. But the brand the Les 4 Ombres palette: Tissé Fantaisie gives makeup fans a choice thanks to its (coral pink, sea foam green, satin white Spring 2015 Kingdom of Colors Palette, and brown with copper highlights) and which includes shades for the cheeks, Tissé Paris (slate grey, two rosewoods the eyes (almond green, silver, purple, and ivory). black) and the lips (pink, pearl and tulip).

Intense color at Giorgio Armani Altogether, the palette includes 10 makeup Bright lip color is also at the heart of essentials along with four applicators. the Italian brand’s Fuchsia Maharajah Retro color at Lancôme collection, named for a deep pink shade Like Chanel, Lancôme was inspired by inspired by Indian silks and embroidery. the French capital for its spring makeup The collection’s signature fuchsia shade is line, French Innocence, which celebrates available in three different textures: Rouge a retro version of Parisian style. The eyes D’Armani for highly pigmented color, are decked out in dramatic blues and pastel Rouge Ecstasy for a balm-like effect and pinks, whether matte or shimmery, while Flash Lacquer for a shiny gloss. The eyes the lips take on sweet pink hues. are natural, while the nails take on electric The centerpiece of the line is the limited shades to match the lips. edition My French Palette, which includes Luminous eyes at Dior matte and shimmery eye shadows for day The French brand often draws inspira- and night, a Hypnôse eyeliner, Lip Lover tion from nature for its makeup collections, for the mouth, and Vernis In Love nail and the new Kingdom of Colours line is polish. no exception, brimming with springtime shades of lilac, pink, green, cherry red and coral.

For his first makeup line at Dior, Peter Philips chose bright and colorful eye shadows for the daytime (the 5 Couleurs Palette with shades of pink or green) and a more magnetic look for the evening (Diorshow Mono in silver mauve and Diorshow Khôl in metallic silver).

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PRAYERS

PRAYERS

PRAYERS

PRAYER to the BLESSED VIRGIN

PRAYER FOR SAINT THERESE Oh Glorious Saint Therese, whom Almighty God has raised up to aid and counsel mankind, I invite your miraculous intercession.

So powerful are you in obtaining every need of body and soul, Our Holy Mother Church proclaims you a “Prodigy of Miracles”.

Now fervently beseech you to answer my petition: (mention here) and carry out your promise of doing good upon the Earth of letting fall from heaven a shower of roses. Henceforth, Dear Little Flower, I will fulll your plea “to be made known everywhere and I will never cease to lead others to Jesus through you.

Amen (Say prayer every day for 9 days. By 4th day, you will see a rose in a magazine, TV picture or receive roses. You can also get strong scent of roses in home even if no roses present. Must promise publication. Thank you Saint Therese.

-O.V

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 -O.V

(Never known to fail)

Oh most beautiful ower 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.

Grateful Thanks.- O.V

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SPORTS

Mayweather-Pacquiao will be ‘great for the sport’

By Daniel Hicks

Macau, Macau |AFP| Friday 3/6/2015 -The May 2 superfight between Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao will be great for the sport of boxing, no matter what the outcome, Pacquiao’s trainer Freddie Roach said on Friday.

Speaking ahead of the weigh-in for his charge Zou Shiming’s world title fight against IBF flyweight champion Amnat Ruenroeng on Saturday in Macau, Roach said he expected the boxing’s popularity to surge on the back of the huge interest in the fight.

Hall of Fame trainer Roach owns the famous Wildcard gym in Los Angeles where Philippines idol and eight-division world champion Pacquiao is currently in training for the Mayweather encounter.

And Roach reckons it will be a very busy place after the two best fighters of a generation finally lock horns in Las Vegas in the richest fight of all time, expected to be worth more than $200 million.

“It’s going to generate a lot of interest in boxing,” Roach told AFP. “I can see a lot of people are going

to be coming in after that fight,” added Roach.

Not that Roach is short of work.

Despite battling the debilitating effects of Parkinson’s disease, he will be in the corner for two other fighters on the Amnat-Zou undercard Saturday, junior middleweight Glen Tapia from the US and China’s junior welterweight Ik Yang.

“I still have a lot of young boxers coming through,” said Roach, despite the rising popularity of competing sports such as mixed martial arts (MMA).

“There’s a total of 22 kids on the team and six who have a chance of winning titles. And there’s also a little girl called Christy, 16 years old and (she has) won the nationals something like five times now. She might be the best fighter in the gym,” added the man who was last week voted US trainer of the year for the seventh time. The gym won’t be throwing its doors open until after the megafight though. With ‘Pacman’ in training, Wildcard is now under security lockdown as Roach and his team try to plot their way to victory over Mayweather – in secret.

Faceoff: Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Manny Pacquiao at the Nokia Theater in Los Angeles where the two were presented to the media in a news conference. Photo: Benny Uy

Legend Hagler hails ‘historic’ Mayweather-Pacquiao fight Tyson weighs Boxing legend Marvin Hagler’s fabled in the first round, it’s still going to be the was dubbed “The Super Fight”. in on PacquiaoReluctant to draw parallels with the clash with Sugar Ray Leonard was the biggest fight in history,” said Hagler. superfight of its day – but the massively Mayweather, 38, has previously re- Pacquiao-Mayweather clash, he said that Mayweather bout

anticipated showdown between Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather will eclipse it, he says.

Speaking with AFP during a visit to Hong Kong, the 60-year-old said the fight between the world famous welterweights in Las Vegas on May 2 would be the “biggest fight in history”, regardless of who wins.

The fight has echoes of Hagler’s 1987 showdown with Leonard, also staged in Las Vegas, which saw him lose on points in a decision which remains controversial to this day.

Pacquiao and Mayweather are considered to be the best “pound-for-pound” boxers of their generation and their $200 million clash will finally happen after years of failed negotiations.

“Whether Pacquiao loses in the first round, whether he knocks out Mayweather

called watching the Hagler-Leonard clash.

“I remember being a kid and saying there would never be another fight bigger than this,” he said in an interview before his 2007 fight against Oscar De la Hoya.

The American, who has a 47-0 record with 26 knockouts, is homing in on the iconic 49-0 record of 1950s legend Rocky Marciano, who retired as an undefeated heavyweight champion.

Pacquiao, a devout Christian, by contrast holds a record of 57-5 with two draws and 38 knockouts.

The 36-year-old Philippines boxing hero earlier this month called the face-off with undefeated Mayweather “the real fight of my life”.

Hagler was undisputed world middleweight champion for seven years until his fight with Leonard at Caesar’s Palace, wich

both fighters would just be focused on the result. “Once you start getting yourself into the fight, it’s not about the money, it’s about the win.”

Hagler said it was too early to call a favourite, despite Las Vegas oddsmakers pegging Mayweather as having the upper hand, noting that “anything can happen from now until May.” “Mayweather, he’s using his head, he’s using his skills and strategy and let’s hope Pacquiao don’t fall into his tricks.”

Hagler said that if Pacquiao won, he would be “a worldwide figure, bigger than what he expected”.

He was in Hong Kong with the Laureus Sports for Good Foundation, a group which provides coaching and education to young people in the most deprived environments around the world.

Roach slams reports of ‘armed guards’ at Pacquiao gym

By Daniel Hicks

Macau, Macau | | Friday 3/6/2015 – Freddie Roach denied media reports published Friday that he had ordered armed guards to protect Manny Pacquiao at his Hollywood gym. The UK’s Daily Mail newspaper reported that Roach had personally ordered security guards at his Wildcard gym in Los Angeles to carry guns “so people respect them” as Pacquiao trains in the build-up to his May 2 megafight with Floyd Mayweather in Las Vegas.

But Roach, in Macau to supervise the corner of China’s Zou Shiming as he chal-

lenges for the IBF flyweight world title against Amnat Ruenroeng of Thailand on Saturday, told AFP: “Yeah I heard something about that. It’s not true.

“We have our normal security. To say they are armed and and are patrolling outside the gym is bull _ _ _ _.” Roach’s gym, where he has trained 34 world champions in an illustrious career that has seen him inducted into boxing’s Hall of Fame, is renowned for being open to all so fans can catch glimpses of their favourite fighters.

But Roach said that the doors will be closed to media and fans during most

of Pacquiao’s training sessions, so his opponents don’t get any clues to their preparations.

“Yes we will work with Manny in private to prepare for Floyd – that’s normal.

But to say I’ve ordered armed security is absolute bull _ _ _ _,” Roach said.

Philippines eight-weight world champions and undefeated welterweight Floyd Mayweather will finally go glove-to-glove in May to decide who is the best fighter of their generation in a contest expected to break all records and generate in the region of $300 million dollars.

Rap star bets big on Mayweather over Pacquiao New York, United States |AFP| Friday 3/6/2015 - Curtis Jackson, the rap music star better known as 50 Cent, says he will bet $1.6 million (1.47 million euros) on pal Floyd Mayweather to beat Manny Pacquiao in their May boxing showdown.

The much-anticipated bout will be staged May 2 in Las Vegas and could be the richest payday in boxing history for undefeated Mayweather.

“Champ is going to do it. He’s going to smoke him,” Jackson told radio station Power 105.1. “It’s going to look like he

pumped up for no reason.”

Asked if he would back up his confidence with a bet, Jackson replied, “Probably like 1.6 (million). I’ve been thinking this out. “I’m going to make a real bet.

He’s focused right now.”

Jackson last year taunted Mayweather’s reading ability after a radio station aired audio of the fighter struggling to read a promotion transcript. He challenged the US fighter to read a page from a Harry Potter book in exchange for a $750,000 donation by Jackson to charity.

Mayweather responded with a Twitter posting featuring a photo of two massive paychecks saying, “Read this $72,276,000.00 God bless.”

Jackson compared his spats with Mayweather to a married couple taking out frustrations over other things on each other.

“We can both get madder when we’re not speaking to each other,” he said.

Filipino southpaw Pacquiao is 57-5 with two drawn and 38 knockouts while Mayweather is 47-0 with 26 knockouts.

Los Angeles, United States |AFP| Saturday 3/7/2015 – Unbeaten Floyd Mayweather’s usual conservative style might not be enough to hold off Filipino ring icon Manny Pacquiao, former heavyweight world champion Mike Tyson has warned.

Tyson is just the latest big name to weigh in with an opinion on how the long-awaited showdown between the two pound-for-pound greats might go when they step into the ring in Las Vegas on May 2.

“He has to fight,” Tyson said this week of Mayweather, in a video posted on YouTube.

“If he’s not going to score, he is going to lose the round. Also, if he is laid back, he is going to lose the round.”

Tyson says the fighters who have troubled Pacquiao have been prolific punchers.

“Floyd doesn’t throw nowhere near 100 punches a round,” he said. “He’s more, you know, scientific about it. He really plots a lot. And he sits around and he poses. And this guy (Pacquiao) is all over – fading, moving.

“I just don’t think (Mayweather) is going to be able to play that plotting, skill ... Floyd’s got to fight the first couple of rounds.”

Tyson isn’t the only former heavyweight world champion who has his eye on Pacquiao-Mayweather.

Evander Holyfield, speaking at a sponsors’ event in New York on Tuesday, said he plans to be at the welterweight unification bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. “I don’t know who’s going to win, that’s the reason I’m going to see it,” the four-time heavyweight champion told Newsday. “If I had to pay, I would pay to see that fight, because that’s how great that fight will be.”

Holyfield said the differing styles of Mayweather and Pacquiao make the fight hard to handicap.

“Pacquiao, the only way he can win is if he corners him off,” Holyfield said.

“Can he corner him off? If he corners him off, I think he will win ... I don’t think he can. But that’s what makes the fight so interesting.”

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All-new 2015 Honda Fit achieves highest overall vehicle score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Fit is the fifth Honda vehicle for 2015 to achieve top crash safety ratings from both from IIHS and NHTSA TORRANCE, Calif. – The spacious, fuel-efficient and versatile 2015 Honda Fit (http://automobiles.honda.com/fit/), has received a 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score, the top score available in the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) New Car Assessment Program (NCAP). The Fit, completely redesigned in 2014, earns both a TOP SAFETY PICK rating from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and a NCAP 5-Star Overall Vehicle Score from NHTSA for 2015, making it even more of a standout choice in its segment.

“The Fit shows that owning a smaller car doesn’t mean you need to skimp on space, comfort or crashworthiness,” said Art St. Cyr, vice president of auto operations at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “Honda’s commitment to the safety of our customers and other road users is second to none, and the Fit demonstrates this commitment in a powerful way.”

Already the benchmark subcompact in terms of passenger and cargo space and innovative features, occupant safety features for the 2015 Honda Fit are further enhanced through the next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure. The ACE™ body structure improves frontal crash energy management through a wider range of offset and oblique collision modes. In addition, other body reinforcements work in tandem with the

strengthened body structure to better maintain the occupant compartment volume during frontal collisions by providing additional crash energy pathways to help mitigate the forces transmitted to the passenger compartment.

Key Safety and Driver-Assistive Features: In addition to the next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body-structure, the 2015 Fit features a host of standard active and passive safety features and offers many standard and available driver-assistive technologies: Driver and Front Passenger SmartVent Side Airbags Side Curtain Airbags with Rollover Sensor Motion-Adaptive Electric Power Steering (EPS) – a feature of VSA Hill Start Assist Expanded View Driver’s Mirror Honda LaneWatch Multi-Angle Rearview Camera with Guidelines Standard safety equipment on all 2015 Honda models includes the next-generation of Honda’s ACE™ body structure, Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA) with traction

control; an Antilock Braking System (ABS); side curtain airbags (some vehicles equipped with a rollover sensor as well); dual-stage, multiple-threshold front airbags; and front side airbags.

Honda Safety Leadership Honda has a long history of leadership in the development and application of advanced technologies designed to enhance the safety of all road users, including automobile occupants, motorcycle riders and pedestrians. The company operates two of the world’s most sophisticated crash test facilities, in Ohio and Japan, and is responsible for numerous pioneering efforts in the areas of crashworthiness, airbag technology, collision compatibility and pedestrian safety. The company is broadly applying advanced driver-assistive technologies such as LaneWatch™, Forward Collision Warning and Lane Departure Warning to its product lineup and has applied rearview cameras as standard equipment to 100-per-

cent of its line-up for 2015.

Approximately 98 percent of Honda brand new car registrations in America in 2014 were to individual retail car buyers. Isn’t it about time you yourself get a Honda? Or, better replace your Honda with a newer model. Come and see our kababayan Mac Almerol, one of the most veteran Filipino-American car specialists in the Southland today, at Honda of Hollywood. You can reach Mac toll free at 1-866-630-0734. Better yet, test drive a new Honda today by coming down to Honda of Hollywood located at 6511 Santa Monica Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90038.

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Kia Sportage ranks highest among small suvs in 2015 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study Dynamic and capable crossover earns Kia’s first-ever Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) award I RV I N E , C a l i f . , F e b r u a r y 2 6 , 2015 – J.D. Power 2015 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) has ranked the Kia Sportage as the leader in the Small SUV category, marking the first-ever VDS award in the brand’s history.

The industry-wide study examines problems experienced during the past 12 months by original owners of three-year old vehicles (2012 model year). Overall dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PP100). Thus, a lower score reflects a higher long-term quality level. The Sportage ranked first in a field of seven contenders with a score of 129 PP100.

This latest recognition for Sportage follows the model’s two consecutive J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey (IQS) awards in 2013 and 2014.

“We believe the results of the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study demonstrate Kia’s on-going commitment to quality and obsession with craftsmanship in building our world-class products,” said John Crowe, vice president, service & aftersale operations, Kia Motors America (KMA).

Crowe added, “The Sportage is a clear example of how far the entire Kia model line-up has progressed, and this kind of quality is tangible evidence of our longterm strategy to enhance the Kia ownership experience.”

VDS measures the long-term quality of vehicles, including new technologies and features currently available to buyers. It includes 32 nameplates and 228 models, covering 177 specific problem symptoms grouped into eight major vehicle categories.

About the 2015 Sportage Starting with the LX trim, Sportage offers numerous standard features, including 17inch alloy wheels matched with 225/60R17 low-rolling-resistance silica tires, bodycolor door handles, Bluetooth1 Wireless Technology Hands-Free Connectivity, solar glass, privacy glass, keyless entry with folding key and a six-speed electronically controlled Sportmatic automatic transmission.

The popularly equipped EX trim offers stylish 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/55R18 tires, LED turn signals on the outside mirrors, a rear camera display and backup warning system,2 high-performance dampers, roof rails, a rear spoiler, fog lamps and chrome body trim and door handles.

The top-of-the-line Sportage SX adds a powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI engine producing 260-horsepower, unique 18-inch alloy wheels, dual exhaust, sculpted side sill moldings, LED accent lighting along the headlamps for a sportier, more upscale appearance and a unique SX grille.

If you want to find out why Kia is among the leading car brands of today, drop by Car Pros Kia of Carson at 21243 S Avalon Blvd, Carson, CA 90745 (telephone # 310-221-9131), or at Car Pros Kia Huntington Beach at 18835 Beach Blvd., Huntington Beach, CA 92648 (714-6131119) and last but won’t be the last, at Car Pros Kia Glendale at 400 S. Brand Blvd., Glendale, CA 91204 (818) 745-1400.

“We believe the results of the J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study demonstrate Kia’s on-going commitment to quality and obsession with craftsmanship in building our world-class products,” said John Crowe, vice president, service & aftersale operations, Kia Motors America (KMA). “The Sportage is a clear example of how far the entire Kia model line-up has progressed, and this kind of quality is tangible evidence of our long-term strategy to enhance the Kia ownership experience.”

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Nissan improves five spots in 2015 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study Altima, Frontier, LEAF all among top three models in their segments

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Nissan brand moved up five positions and achieved an above industry average ranking for vehicle dependability according to the 2015 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study. In this year’s J.D. Power study of model year 2012 vehicles, Nissan jumped to 13th among brands with 128 problems per hundred vehicles (PPH).

Nissan recorded 19 fewer PPH than the industry average of 147.

Overall, four Nissan vehicles ranked among the top-three most dependable within their respective segments, with the 2012 Murano taking the top honor in

the Midsize SUV category – up two spots from the previous year.

Nissan Altima, Frontier and LEAF e a c h Manuel Lava of Nissan of r a n k e d Mission Hills second most dependable within their respective segments.

“Quality and dependability are two core attributes of Nissan vehicles designed to ensure our customers feel confident in their purchase decisions,” said Pierre Loing, vice president, Product Planning, Nissan

North America. “Long-term brand quality is one of the leading factors in a customer’s purchasing decision and we believe the results of this year’s J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study demonstrate Nissan’s dedication to fulfilling that requirement.”

The 2015 J.D. Power Vehicle Dependability Study measures the number of owner-reported problems during the third year of vehicle ownership. Dependability is determined by the number of problems experienced per 100 vehicles (PPH)– with a lower number indicating a higher level of dependability.

This year’s J.D. Power study was enhanced to better measure the quality of today’s vehicles, particularly related to new technologies and features now being offered.

The study covers 177 specific problem symptoms grouped into eight major vehicle

categories. The 2015 study reports an industry average of 147 reported problems per vehicle.

According to J.D. Power, “At the threeyear point, many owners are thinking about replacing their vehicles, and we find that how they feel about their current vehicle’s quality and dependability impacts their intent to consider purchasing the same brand again.”

If you have been desiring to own a new Nissan vehicle, come down to Nissan Mission Hills and check out our kababayan Manuel Lava of Nissan Mission Hills.

So what are you waiting for? Schedule a Test drive on the vehicle of your choice at Nissan of Mission Hills. Call Manuel at 1-888-588-7635 and test drive a Nissan vehicle today! Nissan of Mission Hills is located at 11000 Sepulveda Blvd., Mission Hills, CA 91345.

2015 Mitsubishi Mirage named one of ‘10 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars Under $25,000’ by KBB.com The Mirage is the only vehicle on this year’s list that is not an EV or hybrid vehicle

Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com, an important resource of automotive information and vehicle valuations, has named Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.’s (MMNA) 2015 Mitsubishi Mirage 5-door subcompact to the organization’s “10 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars Under 25,000” list.

The Mirage is the most fuel-efficient, gasoline-powered, non-hybrid vehicle available in America today and is the only non-EV/non-hybrid vehicle to be included on the listWith a starting MSRP of only $12,995 and an EPA fuel rating of 40 mpg combined (37 mpg city/44 mpg highway), the 2015 Mirage is an affordable vehicle to purchase with equally affordable cost of ownership.

Furthermore, every Mirage comes with Mitsubishi Motors’ outstanding warranty, one of the industry’s most comprehensive protection plans. Coverage includes a 10-year/100,000 mile powertrain limited warranty, 5-year/60,000 mile new vehicle limited warranty, 7-year/100,000 mile anti-corrosion/perforation limited warranty and 5-years/unlimited miles roadside assistance.

“The Mirage continues to be an important vehicle for the Mitsubishi brand,” said Don Swearingen, Executive Vice President, MMNA. “With its affordable price, incredible fuel economy and surprising list of available features, the Mirage is a great value that people recognize – February 2015 was the vehicle’s best-ever sales month since its launch in 2013.”

The 2014 Mirage is the highest-ranked gasoline-powered non-hybrid vehicle to appear on the ACEEE’s “Greenest Vehicles” list – a testament to the excellent efficiency engineered into Mitsubishi Motors’ latest vehicle to join the company’s diverse model lineup, according to Greenercars.org.

“We’ve had such an influx of hybrid and electric vehicles in recent years that the race to earn a spot on the ‘Greenest’ list is more competitive than ever, particularly for conventional vehicles. It’s encouraging to see automakers investing heavily in ecosavvy vehicles on the whole,” said ACEEE lead vehicle analyst Shruti Vaidyanathan.

The 2014 Mitsubishi Mirage is the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid gasoline vehicle available in America with an EPA fuel rating of 40 mpg combined city and highway (37 mpg city/44 mpg highway)*.

With a starting MSRP of only $12,995 for the entry-level DE model, the new Mirage includes a wide array of standard features and accessories such as 7 air bags including driver’s knee airbag, automatic climate control, leather-wrapped steering wheel, a 4 speaker 130-watt AM/FM/CD/ MP3 sound system with USB port, steering wheel-mounted cruise control, rear spoiler, fuel-saving Electric Power Steering (EPS) and much more.

Welcome available upscale features for the new Mirage include 7-inch highdefinition touchscreen navigation system with rear backup camera, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, FAST-key passive entry system with push button engine start, a smooth-operating and fuel-saving continuously-variable transmission (CVT), parking assist sensors, remote engine start

The Mirage is the most fuel-efficient, gasoline-powered, non-hybrid vehicle available in America today and is the only non-EV/non-hybrid vehicle to be included on the list.

(CVT-equipped models only), blue LED interior floor illumination and a variety of sporty-looking bodywork accessories.

If you want to know why the Mitsubishi is up in its sales and why the Mirage is among the best in America or why Mitsubishi vehicles are the choice of many of our

kababayans – nostalgia perhaps? – who are looking for reliability, efficiency and comfort, call Richard Samaco, Cesar Macandili or Mark De Leon the dealership’s Filipino salespersons at Glendale Mitsubishi at (888) 465-7218. It is located at 1235 S. Brand Blvd, Glendale, CA 91204.

Car industry welcomes Google, Apple but battles loom

(Geneva-AFP) – It could be the battle of the titans.

Auto giants at the Geneva Motor Show say they welcome the potential move of Silicon Valley players into their sector but experts warn of major disruptions.

Google has long made headlines with its plans for a self-driving car, but Apple is now also reportedly readying for a plunge into the industry to begin developing an electric car.

“This could surprise you, but I welcome with open arms the interest of Apple, Google and others in the auto industry,” Volkswagen head Martin Winterkorn said, adding he thought it would help garner

interest for cars among new generations who grow up connected.

Fiat-Chrysler chief Sergio Marchionne agreed, saying the Californian giants’ arrival would be “exactly what this industry needed.”

Ditto for Renault-Nissan chief executive Carlos Ghosn.

“I’m absolutely not fearful or hostile” towards a possible arrival of Apple, he said at the motor show.

“I consider that all the people who join the electric car are some kind of allies.”

Marchionne acknowledged that their arrival would be “disruptive” but argued it would benefit everyone in the long term.

Google and Apple’s interest in vehicles may have got all the industry’s top dogs to react, but many experts doubt that Silicon Valley players actually want to launch into car manufacturing, which yields much lower margins that what they are used to.

“If companies like Apple or Google had really wanted to invest in auto production, they could have taken advantage of the crisis to do so,” said Josselin Chabert of consultants PwC. He believes that Apple’s interest in electric cars – as yet unconfirmed by the iPhone and iPad maker – is designed to spook traditional car makers and influence them into partnering with the tech firm for

their connected vehicles.

Experts also point to the risk that Apple and Google’s ultimate aim may be to ingratiate themselves into providing services inside cars – and gain access to drivers’ and passengers’ data.

Both firms, as well as Microsoft, already have access to many new vehicles via “MirrorLink” technology that links a person’s smartphone to a car’s infotainment system.

“We’re completely at ease with the idea of cooperating with people who help us provide excellent service to our clients,” says Yves Bonnefont, who looks after connected vehicles at French auto giant PSA.

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2015 Nissan Sentra earns Top Safety Pick from IIHS

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) today awarded the 2015 Nissan Sentra a “Top Safety Pick” vehicle safety rating. The Institute’s “Top Safety Pick” award recognizes passenger vehicles that excel in protecting passengers in moderate overlap front, side, roof strength and head restraint tests and also achieve a “Good” or “Acceptable” rating in the small overlap frontal test. The 2015 Sentra scored “Good” in all five of the “Top Safety Pick” categories.

“Nissan is committed to safety and innovation, and Nissan is proud to achieve the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating for the 2015 Sentra,” said Fred Diaz, senior vice president, Nissan Sales & Marketing and Operations U.S., Nissan North America.

“As a compact sedan, Sentra is a critically important vehicle in Nissan’s lineup and with its standard safety features we’re bringing a high level of safety and security to a growing consumer segment.”

Safety and security features standard on all 2015 Sentras include the Nissan Advanced Air Bag System (AABS) with dual-stage supplemental front air bags

with seat belt and occupant classification sensors; front seat-mounted side impact supplemental air bags; roof-mounted curtain side impact supplemental air bags for front and rear-seat outboard occupant head protection; three-point front and rear seatbelts, front seat belts with pretensioners and load limiters and adjustable upper anchors; and LATCH System (Lower Anchors and Tethers for CHildren).

Every Sentra comes with Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake force Distribution (EBD) and Brake Assist; Vehicle Dynamic Control (VDC) with Traction Control System (TCS); Zone Body construction featuring front and rear crumple zones and occupant zones; Energy absorbing steering column; Child safety rear door locks; Nissan Immobilizer system and anti-theft alarm system; Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with position monitoring and Bluetooth Hands-free phone System. Sentra SV, SR and SL also come standard with Nissan’s innovative and class-exclusive Easy Fill Tire Alert, which sounds the car horn to notify a person filling a tire with air when

Global car sales rose to record level in 2014 As the Geneva Motor Show continues, the International Organization of Motor Vehicle Manufacturers (OICA) announced that vehicle sales to consumers and businesses combined climbed 3% in 2014 to over 88 million units.

In 2014, the number of motor vehicles sold worldwide hit an all-time record high of 88.2 million, showing a 3.1% increase over the previous year. With close to 24 million cars sold, representing a 7% yearon-year uptick, China strengthened its lead as the world’s leading car market. A similar boom was seen in the US, where car sales increased 6% from the previous year.

Certain European countries saw an even more impressive year-on-year spike: vehicle sales were up 20% in both Spain and the UK. The French market was less dynamic, though there was a 0.5% rise in new vehicle sales, which totaled just over 2 million in the country during 2014.

On the other hand, vehicle sales plum-

meted in Brazil (-7%), Turkey (-10%), Russia (-15%) and Argentina (-36%).

According to the organization, there are now 174 cars in circulation per 1,000 people (compared to 170 in 2013), or a total of 1.2 billion cars. The US is still the territory with the highest car ownership rate, with 790 vehicles per 1,000 people.

The same figure is 565 in Europe, 544 in Japan and just 91 in China, where sales are expected to rise exponentially over the coming years.

Global automotive production also hit a new record level in 2014, as the world’s manufacturers produced 89.5 million units (+3%), all vehicle types combined. China was the source of one out of four cars produced worldwide (26%). For 2015, the OICA expects vehicle sales will rise to a new record of 91 million units, propelled by another rise in China (+7%) and steady growth in Europe and the US (+2%), despite a strong decline in Russia (-11%).

If you want to be the next Sentra owner, or you may want to purchase another Nissan vehicle, brand-new or certified pre-owned, all you have to do is get in touch with Nelson Samson at Ross Nissan located at 3428 North Peck Road, El Monte, CA 91731. Or call them to make an appointment at 1-866-481-1050. For more information, please visit their website at www. rossnissan.com.

the recommended tire pressure has been reached.

If you want to be the next Nissan owner or you may want to purchase another Nissan vehicle, brand-new or certified preowned, all you have to do is get in touch

with our friends at Ross Nissan located at 3428 North Peck Road, El Monte, CA 91731. Or call them to make an appointment at 1-866-481-1050. For more information, please visit their website at www. rossnissan.com.

Geneva Motor Show: Embracing the battery

At this year’s Geneva Motor Show, there is clearly a bigger buzz among mainstream manufacturers about electric vehicles.

According to Mercedes-Benz executive Harald Kroger, who oversees the company’s e-drive vehicles, this growing interest could be because a battery-power breakthrough is on the horizon. The driving range of current electric vehicles is already improving but within 10 years, the distance a plug-in vehicle will be able to travel on a single charge will have doubled, he told Auto Express.

Mercedes demonstrated its latest plug-in hybrid concept at this year’s show, the V-ision-e. It’s a big seven-seat MPV that can travel 50km just on the batteries before its gas engine kicks in. If interest is there, it will go into production.

The company chose its luxury MPV for the hybrid treatment because the popularity of Tesla proves that there is serious interest in the premium sector for something with better environmental credentials.

Audi has taken this logic one step further, unveiling its first ever plug-in electric car, the R8 e-tron, a battery-powered version of its new flagship supercar. It delivers 456bhp to the rear wheels, can go from 0-100km/h in 3.9 seconds and although top speed is capped at 350km/h, it can travel for up to 444km between charges.

The R8 e-tron will also serve as a research and development vehicle, gathering data for the creation of an EV SUV. Audi is aiming for a spacious, high riding car for four with a 500km range. Audi also believes significant battery technology improvements are near and that very soon electric will be a viable alternative to fossil fuel.

The current world leader in battery-powered cars based on sales is RenaultNissan, with 222,000 cars sold over the last four years: its CEO, Carlos Ghosn welcomed news that the market is about to heat up.

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