Weekend balita november 8, 2014

LOS ANGELES

VOL. XXII, NO. 40

NOVEMBER 8 - 14 , 2014

THE LEADING SOURCE OF NEWS AND INFORMATION FOR FILIPINO-AMERICANS

Guingona on Binay snub – Sayang A bad precedent: Why Binay snubbed Senate probe MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Vice President Jejomar Binay said he declined the invitation of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to attend a probe since it will set a bad precedent.

Binay flew to Cebu Thursday morning.

He was scheduled to visit Toledo City later.

Other activities lined up for the vice president include a visit to a mining company and a meeting with a mayor in Cebu.

In a letter to Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Senator Teofisto Guingona III, Binay said: “This will set a bad precedent, where the Vice President, the second highest official of the land, can be summoned to a hearing by some senators.”

He said he initially wanted to go to See BAD PRECEDENT, page 9

Senator Teofisto Guingona III (right), chair of the Senate Blue Ribbon committee, listens as subcommittee members Senators Antonio Trillanes IV, Aquilino Pimentel III, and Alan Peter Cayetano discuss the measures to be taken after Vice President Jejomar Binay did not show up at the Senate probe on the alleged overpriced Makati City Hall Building II on Thursday, November 6. Binay is in Cebu for several meetings. (MNS photo)

MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Vice President Jejomar Binay on Thursday snubbed a Senate Blue Ribbon committee inquiry on the alleged overpricing of the Makati City Hall Building II after initially saying that he is inclined to attend the probe.

Instead, the vice president sent two of his spokesmen - Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco and Atty. JV Bautista - to deliver a letter to the committee chairman.

Senate Blue Ribbon Committee chairman Teofisto Guingona III adjourned the committee hearing after receiving word that the vice president will not attend.

He said Binay’s no show was a missed opportunity for the vice president to air his side over the various corruption allegations against him. This is after Binay’s earlier statement that he will attend the probe only if he is invited by the Blue Ribbon mother committee.

See SAYANG, page 9

US Navy cancels port calls to PHL DOF says visits to Subic cancelled due to ‘operational reasons’ MANILA, November 3, 2014 (AFP) - The US Navy has cancelled visits to the Philippine port of Subic amid public anger over accusations that a US Marine killed a Filipino on the city’s outskirts, officials said Monday.

Foreign Department spokesman Charles

Jose said the visits of three US ships to Subic this month had been cancelled, while the head of the Subic freeport said nine such visits scheduled for this year had been called off.

“The DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs) was informed through normal diplomatic channels of the cancellation of the visits to Subic of three ships for operational reasons,” he said.

Jose told reporters he did not believe the cancellations were linked to anger stirred by the investigation of a US Marine for the killing of a Filipina in Olongapo City last month.

Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority chairman Robert Garcia said nine US ships due to dock at Subic this year had cancelled their visits.

He told AFP that two US Navy ships were still scheduled to make port calls in Subic for “emergency repairs” but their crews would not be allowed to disembark.

See US NAVY, page 9

SUBIC BAY, Philippines (Oct. 4, 2014) Marines assigned to the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit depart the amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) to participate in the ground phase of Amphibious Landing Exercise 2015. The annual bilateral training exercise is conducted by the Armed Forces of the Philippines, U.S. Marines and Navy to strengthen interoperability across a range of capabilities to include disaster relief and contingency operations. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Dustin Knight/Released)

DOT launches campaign targeting ChineseAmerican, US travelers Campaign promotes cooperation with airlines and travel agents

As Christmas approaches, a man arranges plastic Christmas trees that he is selling for P1,500 each at the Divisoria market in Manila on Thursday, November 6.(MNS photo)

LOS ANGELES, CA (November 3, 2014) – This week, the Philippine Department of Tourism’s American offices (San Francisco, Los Angeles and New York) are launching DOT’s first major campaign in the United States targeting Chinese-American and mainstream American travelers. This campaign introduces, promotes and encourages visits to the Philippines’ unique and worldfamous tourist and travel destinations.

A series of Product Presentations for travel agents and tour operators are beSee DOT LAUNCHES, page 9

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Binay would rather talk to people than attend Senate ‘circus’ MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Vice President Jejomar Binay will rather tour the country and talk to each Filipino to answer the accusations against him than attend the Senate blue ribbon committee hearing.

Lawyer JV Bautista, interim secretary general of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA), in a televised press conference on Thursday said Binay was willing to go around the country and talk to 100 million people.

“Ngunit hindi po sya tutungtong dito sa circus ng Senate…” Bautista said.

(But he will not set foot at the Senate circus).

“Hindi po pwedeng madungisan ang kanyang pagkatao at ang kanyang opisina nitong tatlong nagwawalang senador na ito,” he added.

(His reputation and his office should not be tainted by these three senators who are running amok.)

In his letter to Senator Teofisto Guingona III, committee chairperson, Binay said it would not be proper for him to attend the hearing.

“This will set a bad precedent, where the Vice President, the second highest official of the land, can be summoned to a hearing by some senators,” he explained.

Binay, who is in Cebu, accused the senators of being a party to “a syndicate of lies.”

Binay is being accused of pocketing kickbacks from the alleged overpriced construction of the Makati City Hall parking building. Former Makati Vice Mayor Ernest Mercado also accused his family of owning a 350-hectare estate in Batangas.

Mercado said Binay’s ill-gotten wealth was used to purchase and develop the property.

Binay, who will run as president in 2016, said his political rivals were behind

the black propaganda against him.

Guingona and the other senators were expecting Binay to appear before the Senate and answer corruption allegations.

However, media reported that Binay arrived in Cebu on Thursday morning to meet with business and government officials.

Bautista read Binay’s letter in a press conference at the Senate while the hearing was ongoing.

Binay said he initially wanted to attend the hearing upon receiving Guingona’s invitation after the senator assured him of being given respect that “befits (his) position as Vice President of the Republic.”

However, he was dismayed with Senator Alan Cayetano who “drove away” Bautista and Navotas Representative Tobias “Toby” Tiangco, interim president of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA).

“The behavior of Senators Cayetano and Trillanes last October 30, and in previous hearings, proves that they are not ready to hear any explanation that contradicts their conclusion that I am guilty,” Binay wrote.

He said Cayetano and Senator Antonio Trillanes IV were bullying and intimidating people whose testimony before the Senate contradicted their views.

“If these senators were not even admonished in the past eleven hearings, and if my authorized representatives were treated like criminals, I see no assurance that I will be given the chance to speak freely, that my rights will be recognized, or that the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines will be accorded the respect it deserves,” Binay said.

He said he would also submit his affidavit containing his “detailed response to the baseless accusations and lies of our political rivals”. (MNS)

Vice President Jejomar Binay (right) attends a special Cabinet meeting on Typhoon Yolanda which was presided by President Benigno Aquino III in Malacañang on Wednesday, November 5. Also in photo are Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima, DENR Secretary Ramon Paje, Presidential Spokesperson Edwin Lacierda, and Presidential Management Staff head Julia Andrea Abad. (MNS photo)

Alan Peter Cayetano: I don’t make fun of kidnapping MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Senate Majority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano on Thursday denied making fun of kidnapping as claimed by businessman Antonio Tiu, maintaining that he always worked for the protection of the Filipino-Chinese community.

“Never kong ginawang biro ang kidnapping. I’ve been in government service since 1992. I’ve always worked for the protection of the Filipino-Chinese community that I’m very close to. I might not look it, but I have Chinese blood,” Cayetano said in his opening speech at the resumption of the Senate blue ribbon subcommittee’s hearing on the Makati City Hall Building II. Cayetano said it was Tiu who made himself vulnerable to criminals by saying that the worth of his company was P5 billion and he is a very successful businessman.

“So tinanong ko lang siya, ‘Are you willing to open the bank account of the compmay kasi ang balita ko, may perang

tumatakbo between that and the law offices of the Binays at pinaiikot nyo lang ang pera.’ Siya ang nagsabing, ‘Sir, you are subjecting me to kidnapping’,” Cayetano said.

“Sinagot ko siya, ‘How can I be subjecting you to kidnapping kung ikaw na nagsabi na may limang bilyon ka.’ Sabi niya, shares naman yan hindi cash. Sinabi ko na matatalino ang kidnappers, alam nila ang mayaman at hindi,” he added.

Cayetano also pointed out that it was Tiu who was laughing when they were discussing that issue.

“Ang problema kinut po ni Mr. Tiu yung palitan namin, siya nga yung tawa nang tawa habang nagsasabi ng kidnappin nung hearing. Ako, seryoso palagi pag ito ang pinag uusapan,” he said.

He added that Tiu just used that incident to justify his absence in the hearing Thursday. Cayetano also assured the FilipinoChinese community that he will not take kidnapping or any crime lightly.

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Are you in Chapter 13 repayment plan?

My office gets many questions on the consequences of being in a Chapter 13 repayment plan. But first, what is a Chapter 13?

It’s an alternative to Chapter 7, the “simple” bankruptcy, for debtors who own more than allowed exemptions. Example: Homestead exemption for a couple under 65, is $100,000. What if you owned your house outright, and didn’t want to sell? Anything above $100,000 would be non-exempt, so a workout under Chapter 13 would be an appropriate solution, provided

you meet the Chapter 13 Plan Payment criteria. your plan be modified to remove the car Under a chapter 13 bankruptcy, a debtor payment, which may allow the plan to be proposes a 3-5 year repayment plan to the reduce in length or the amount of paycreditors offering to pay off all or part of ments. Even if you modify your plan, the debts from the debtor’s future income. you will still be required to contribute all You can use Chapter 13 to prevent a disposable income to the plan. house foreclosure; make up missed car or It has been our experience that it is mortgage payments; pay back taxes; stop usually not practical to sell a vehicle being interest from accruing on your tax debt. paid for by the plan. It is rare that a vehicle Chapter 13 bankruptcy is generally is worth more than the balance owed on used by debtors who want to keep secured the loan. In order to sell the vehicle, the assets, such as a home or car, when they full balance owed to the creditor must be have more equity in the secured assets paid—not the reduced amount that creditor than they can protect with their California would get under the plan. The car deprecibankruptcy exemptions. Chapter 13 bank- ates faster than you are making payments, ruptcy is a reorganization whereas Chapter so no buyer would be willing to pay off the 7 bankruptcy is a liquidation. contract balance.

A chapter 13 bankruptcy allows them to If you decide that you no longer want make up their overdue payments over time the vehicle, it is generally possible to give and to reinstate the original agreement. it back to the creditor even if you cannot Where a debtor has valuable nonexempt find a buyer. In that case the plan can usuproperty and wants to keep it, a chapter 13 ally be modified to remove payment of the may be a better option. However, for the vehicle from the plan and possibly reduce vast majority of individuals who simply the length of the plan or the amount of the want to eliminate their heavy debt burden payments. without paying any of it back, Chapter 7 Q: Can I pay off my Chapter 13 plan provides the most attractive choice. early?

If you can stick to the terms of your A: You can pay ahead a few months on repayment agreement, all your remain- your plan without any problems. Whether ing dischargeable debt will be released you can pay the entire balance of your plan at the end of the plan (typically three to off depends on how many months you are five years). The amount to be repaid is into your plan, and how much of the debt determined by several factors including your plan actually pays: the debtor’s disposable income as is usuIf your plan pays all of the creditors ally determined as part of the California 100% of the debt, you can pay off your Means Test. plan at any time. However, most chapter In addition, the total amount paid to 13 plans, based on disposable income, creditors under the Chapter 13 plan must only pay part of the debt, and discharge the also be at least as much as creditors would balance. So if you’re monthly disposable have received if the debtor filed a Chapter income is $300.00 per month, that’s what 7 bankruptcy. That is the liquidation value you will pay for the duration of the plan of assets above allowable exemptions (60 months), regardless of whether the total granted in Chapter 7. Most people filing debt is $30,000 or $300,000. for bankruptcy qualify under Chapter 7 Since the bankruptcy reform act of rules. They do not have non-exempt assets, 2005, Courts have been willing to allow and therefore discharge all unsecured debt. debtors to refinance their properties and To file Chapter 13 bankruptcy you must use the funds to pay off chapter 13 plans have a “regular source of income” and have early. However, there are many interpretasome disposable income to apply towards tions of the rules involved, and it also varyour Chapter 13 payment plan. ies from Judge to Judge. Ask your attorney Questions on Chapter 13 to be sure.

Q: Can I sell a car which secures a debt Debt problems? Contact me. The law being paid by my Chapter 13 plan? offices of Paul M. Allen. Two convenient A: The short answer is “yes”, but it may offices to serve you. Glendale and Cerritos. not be practical. If you do sell a vehicle Consultations are free. There are many which is being paid by the plan, the debt solutions to dealing with debt. You may secured by the vehicle will no longer have not have to file bankruptcy at all. Call us to be paid in the plan. However, payments for an appointment. My caring staff and I, will still go to the secured creditor unless understand what you are going through. you modify the plan. You may ask that Call us at 818-552-4500.

Gold seller faces P69-million tax evasion case MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) - A seller of gold from Agusan del Sur is facing tax evasion charges filed by the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) for allegedly under-declaring his taxable income in 2009 and 2010.

The BIR said Rizaldy Chua, the owner of a variety store and a liquefied petroleum gas retail store in Rosario, sold gold to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) worth P88 million in 2009 and P8.1 million in 2010.

But in his income tax returns for those years, Chua only declared gross sales of P190,532 in 2009 and P204,061.75 in 2010, or an under-declaration of 46,039 percent in 2009 and 3,879 percent in 2010.

Under Sec. 248 (B) of the Tax Code,

an under-declaration of taxable income by more than 30 percent constitutes a prima facie case of fraud tantamount to tax evasion.

Chua was also sued for a deficiency in income taxes amounting to P69 million.

The BIR also filed a similar charge against a metal retailer from Caloocan, Nancy Sze, for under-declaring her income in 2010 by 53 percent.

Sze was sued for an aggregate tax liability in 2010 amounting to P4.07 million.

Two separate complaints, meanwhile, were filed against two delinquent taxpayers from Manila for failing to pay taxes.

Charged for violating Section 255 of the Tax Code were Luisa Chuahiong, and Builders Macrosystem Technology and its officers.

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Sympathy for Tiu: Senator twitted over ‘kidnap’ remarks MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Antikidnapping advocate Teresita Ang-See on Thursday expressed sympathy for businessman Antonio Tiu, who earlier decried the comments made by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano over his wealth.

Ang-See, founding chairman of the Movement for Restoration of Peace and Order, described as “uncalled for” Cayetano’s remark that Tiu has already exposed himself to kidnappers by revealing the estimate of his wealth just to prove ownership of the Batangas estate being linked to Vice President Jejomar Binay.

“Nakakalungkot. Hindi ito pagsuporta kay Antonio Tiu dahil siyempre yung pagsisinungaling dapat ituwid niya.

Pero it is unfortunate na yung pasaring ni Cayetano is uncalled for. Kahit na he’s poking fun at Antonio Tiu, it is still in bad faith,” she said.

“Talagang nakakalungkot. Parang ano ba ang gusto iparating, kapag kaya magbayad ng ransom okay na?”

Tiu, owner of Sunchamp Real Estate Development Corp., on Thursday said the repeated attacks against him and his family have affected his security and that of his family.

Tiu is accused of being used by Binay as a front to hide the vice-president’s allegedly unexplained wealth, particularly the 145-hectare property in Rosario, Batangas.

The businessman has repeatedly insisted that he owns the Batangas estate, but senators critical of the vice-president said the documents and statements given

by Tiu have so far failed to debunk the allegations.

In last week’s hearing, Cayetano dared Tiu to open his bank accounts in order to prove that he is capable of buying the sprawling estate. Tiu argued that by doing so, he would be exposing

himself to security risk.

Cayetano said Tiu had already exposed himself by claiming that his firm is worth billions and that he is its majority shareholder.

The senator, giving an example, then said shareholders whose relatives are kidnapped are sometimes forced to sell their shares while negotiating with kidnappers.

“I am saying ikaw na ang nagsabi.

Kung ikaw eh private person, lahat ng tao hindi alam kung magkano pera mo…

Eh ikaw ang nasa TV eh, sinabi mo, ‘Ako dummy? P5 billion ang pera ko e.’ So you exposed yourself,” Cayetano said during the hearing.

“Mayroong kini-kidnap sinasabi ‘Within 30 to 40 days, magbayad ka.

Problema mo kung san kukunin.’ So yung ibang may shares, binebenta nila.”

The discussion ended with Tiu saying that the hearing was already veering off from the original topic. He also clarified that the P5 billion is not his net worth, but refers to the assets of his company.

Tiu insisted that he will not open his bank accounts, saying it is his right as a private individual.

Tiu claimed he received a threat that government agencies will gang up on him if does not “cooperate” in the ongoing Senate Blue Ribbon sub-committee probe into the allegations of corruption against the vice-president.

Tiu said the threat of kidnapping has always been there for his family. He said his family is no longer here in the Philippines.

The businessman has already filed a defamation case against Senator Antonio Trillanes IV for calling him a Binay dummy. He said he is also mulling the filing of charges against Cayetano.

(MNS)

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At a press conference in Quezon City on Wednesday, November 5, businessman Antonio ‘Tony’ Tiu becomes emotional as he claims he was being blackmailed by some personalities from the government if he would not cooperate in the Senate investigation on various allegations against Vice President Jejomar Binay. Tiu also criticized Senator Alan Peter Cayetano for being harsh on him during the Senate inquiry into the controversies. Tiu reiterated he is not a dummy of VP Binay as implied by the Senate blue ribbon subcommittee.(MNS photo)

Lawyer: Junjun Binay skipped Senate hearing because he wasn’t given list of questions MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Mayor Junjun Binay’s absence at the Senate blue ribbon subcommittee probe on the alleged overpriced construction of the Makati City Hall Building II last October 30 was due to the panel’s failure to furnish him and other city officials copies of the questions they will be asked at the hearing.

In a letter submitted to the Senate Thursday, Binay’s counsel, lawyer Celso Certeza, said that while the mayor has no intention of defying the subpoena issued by the subcommittee, he “cannot be faulted for his non-appearance” because his request to be furnished an advance copy of the questions was not granted by the panel.

“Considering that our client had previously appeared before the Honorable Sub-committee and already testified for several hours, he is at a loss as to what

further matters he will be required to testify on in relation to the alleged overpricing of the Makati City Hall Building II,” he said.

Certeza said they wrote a letter addressed to the subcommittee last October 29 requesting the panel for a list of questions. The subcommittee is headed by Sen. Aquilino Pimentel III. The lawyer cited as bases for Binay’s “reasonable request” the Supreme Court ruling in Senate vs. Ermita, and in the subsequent case of Neri vs. Senate Committee on Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations, et.al.

In the 2006 case of Senate vs. Ermita, the SC ruled that requesting for the questions to be asked in advance is a reasonable measure for a party invited to an investigation to satisfy himself that the inquiry is held in aid of legislation.

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Bello: I will run for president if Aquino supports me MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) – Running for president may be the farthest thing in his mind right now, but Akbayan party-list Rep. Walden Bello may think about this seriously following President Benigno Aquino III’s dare that he run for the highest office in the land if he knows how to run the country.

Bello said that while he thinks there are people better than he is who are qualified to run for president, he is also not the kind of person who walks away from a challenge or dare, “especially from someone I respect.”

“If what he’s (Aquino) saying is he’ll support me, then I’ll have to think about it seriously because I can’t let him down, can I?” he said.

Aquino on Monday challenged Bello, whom he described as having “too many complaints,” to run for president if he thinks his views on the country’s affairs are correct.

“Ang dami niya talagang reklamo.

Siguro ang mungkahi ko na lang sa kanya, kung palagay niya ‘yung pananaw lang niya ang tama, sa 2016, may eleksyon ng

The Akbayan representative, who belongs to the majority bloc in the House of Representatives, had particularly suggested that Aquino sack Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala, Agrarian Reform Secretary Virgilio de los Reyes, and Budget Secretary Florencio Abad.

Bello said Aquino’s comments was just part of “a disagreement between friends who feel strongly about things.”

“I think there are times when the President probably likes that there are allies who stand up to him,” he said.

Rep. Walden Bello

presidente. Baka gusto niyang lumaban doon,” the President said.

Bello maintained his earlier suggestion for Aquino to let go of certain Cabinet officials was just his way of helping the President.

“I’m confident he’ll eventually realize I had the good of the reform program in mind,” he said.

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Akbayan was part of the Liberal Partyled coalition that ran in the 2013 polls. The party’s incumbent chair, former Akbayan Rep. Risa Hontiveros, ran under an Aquino senatorial slate twice in 2010 and in 2013.

The group also counts Aquino’s three sisters as its biggest campaign donors in the 2010 elections, contributing a total of P112.183 million.

When asked if he would apologize to Aquino over his recent remarks, Bello said: “Being friends means never having to say you’re sorry.” (MNS)

Drilon’s accuser using ICC to divert attention from Binay probe – Erice MANILA, Nov 7 (Mabuhay) – The accuser of Senate President Franklin Drilon on the alleged overpriced Iloilo Convention Center was using the issue to shift public attention away from the probe on corruption allegations against Vice President Jejomar Binay, Caloocan City. Rep Edgar Erice said Friday.

In a press statement, Erice said Manuel Mejorada Jr. was a media consultant to a failed mayoral candidate of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) in Iloilo City.

The candidate, whom he did not name, also had the support of for First Gentleman Juan Miguel Arroyo. “The relationship between Mejorada and UNA is not a secret to Ilonggos. Mejorda became affiliated with that UNA candidate after falling out with the Liberal Party and its leaders, including his former boss Senate President Drilon. Their link is undeniable,” Erice said.

Mejorada was a former consultant of Drilon. Reached for comment, Mejorada said he will send his statement later in the day.

Erice added that Mejorada’s connection to a local UNA figure shows that the push for the ICC probe is UNA’s “squid tactic,” and that Mejorada’s actions against Drilon, Public Works and Highways Sec. Rogelio Singson, Tourism Sec. Ramon Jimenez, and other co-accused officials “are being supported and exploited upon by the opposition.”

Mejorada earlier filed plunder and graft charges against Drilon and other government officials before the Office of the Ombudsman in connection with the Iloilo building project.

“Mejorada is no journalist, and no anticorruption crusader either. He is a paid hack, who can’t get any more obvious with his goal of creating the drama that UNA needs to muddle the investigations threatening Vice President Binay and his ambitions to become the next President,” Erice said.

He also said Mejorada’s appearances in media platforms – television, print, and radio – since his emergence as the complainant against Drilon means that “someone is clearly bankrolling this man’s activities. You can’t go on media rounds, on the national level, if you have no ample financial backing.”

He expressed confidence that Mejorada’s allegations will “flounder upon scrutiny, given that they are the fabrications meant to alleviate UNA’s desperation.”

“Mejorada is nothing more than a ‘jukebox journalist’ – he will sing whatever tune, say whatever lies, as long as you feed him the right price. When the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee takes a look at the documents and the facts regarding the ICC, all they will see is that Mejorada’s lies are founded on thin air, paid for by UNA,” Erice said.

P335-M allocated for repairs and reconstruction in Tacloban-hit areas MANILA, Nov 7 (Mabuhay) – The rehabilitation and reconstruction of police facilities damaged by Supertyphoon “Yolanda” (international name: Haiyan) in November 2013 is now on a “full-scale construction work.”

Speaking to reporters, Police Chief Superintendent Wilben Mayor, spokesman of the PNP, said the PNP has allocated P335 million for the rehabilitation and reconstruction of police facilities.

Mayor said Notices of Fund Availability (NFA) amounting to P335,386,414.86 have been in June 2014.

He said the amount would support the reconstruction and rehabilitation of PNP infrastructure damaged by Yolanda in Bicol, MIMAROPA, Western Visayas, Eastern Visayas and Caraga regions.

The police official said P294,853,875.61 funds were allocated in Eastern Visayas, the hardest hit among the Police Regional Offices, to rehabilitate 183 damaged police stations.

He added that Php 4,684,258.50 was also allocated to rebuild 15 Municipal Police Station (MPS) buildings in Leyte.

The remaining amount was distributed to other police regional offices heavily damaged by the monster typhoon.

In November 8, 2013, Yolanda, the strongest typhoon to hit land ever recorded, flattened parts of Visayas, destroying regional police stations and claiming the lives of some police officers.

Meanwhile, on the eve of the first anniversary of the super typhoon that devastated parts of central Philippines, President Benigno Aquino III on Friday said a 27-kilometer road dike in Leyte is set to be constructed early next year to protect residents there from future storm surges.

In his speech after inspecting the Guiuan Public Market and relocation site in Eastern Samar, Aquino said he is just waiting for the recommendation to approve Tacloban-Palo-Tanauan Road Dike.

“Kalsada po ito na four meters above the sea level, magiging natural na dike ito upang pigilan ang pagragasa ng tubig,” he said.

After getting assurance from Public Works and Highway Secretary Rogelio Singson, the President said the construction will start first quarter of 2015.

Some 1.47 million households were affected when Typhoon Yolanda hit the Visayas on November 8 last year. Over 6,000 people died from the catastrophe.

(MNS)

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Mother’s house with large equity attached by creditor of client seeks debt relief Client presents his financial problem as follows. It’s quite interesting and unusual. Client registered a partnership with his younger brother, each owning 50% of a retail business 20 years ago. The business did very well until recently due to increased competition that slowly crept up over the years.

Then disaster struck. A fire occurred in the store and destroyed substantial merchandise and a portion of the premises. Fortunately, insurance paid for most

of the damage. But, due to the stoppage of business for several months, can they do this dastardly act when client’s it had no cash inflow and the payables be- name is not on title on mother’s house? came uncontrollable. In addition, there was The reason is that the younger brother a slip and fall accident in the store and there who was a 50% owner of the partnership was a lawsuit for $200,000, and several was a joint tenant on mother’s house, and employees had sued for back pay, which the judgment was against both client and resulted in a total of another $100,000 or- his brother. Therefore, the judgment lien der to pay from the Department of Labor. attached to any property in the name of cliPremises liability insurance also covered ent or his brother. As a result, the judgment the lawsuit but there was no protection liens attached to half of mother’s house in from the department of labor order to pay. the brother’s name. Since the house was Initially, client restarted business and re- now worth $700,000, the share of brother sumed operations but found out diminished in the house was half, or $375,000 which sales generating less cash flow could not was adequate to pay for both liens. cover overhead and he was losing $10,000 Apparently, this problem could have a month despite insurance proceeds from been avoided if client had taken the proper fire damage. He could no longer pay the steps earlier to protect mother’s house rent of $7,000 a month so the landlord when his brother had left the partnership threatened eviction. Two creditors started 10 years ago and had returned to his home suing for a combined total of $230,000 and country. When brother left the partnership, eventually got a judgment. It was these client should have amended the partnertwo judgments for a total of $235,000 that ship documents to remove the brother and told him that it was time to throw in the register that amendment at the recorder’s towel. The judgment creditors were able office so that the brother would not have to get two separate liens on the house of been included in the lawsuit, and as further the mother of client, one for $60,000 and protection of the mother’s house, required the other for $175,000. Due to judgment brother to quitclaim to mother, so even if interest, these two amounts were increasing the judgment was also against brother, the at a significant rate. lien would not have attached to mother’s Mother’s house was fully paid and cur- house. Neither was done, so mother’s rently worth $700,000. She is 85 years old. house got attached. So, now we are faced This is not the kind of problem a senior with the formidable task of removing these citizen wants to have at that age. These two liens on mother’s house. This is a difcreditors can actually force the sale of ficult task but with God’s help, everything mother’s house to pay client’s debt, which is possible. is what we do not want to happen under any One way was for brother to file a circumstance. It’s unfair to mother because Chapter 13. However, because of the large she had nothing to do with client’s busi- equity, the judgments would have to be ness. So, creditors attached it, but still, how paid 100% over 60 months. That’s at least

PHL military alarmed at militants’ ransom showcase MANILA, November 5, 2014 (AFP) – The Philippine military on Wednesday expressed alarm that Islamic rebels may go on an arms spending spree after they posted a video online showing what they claimed to be a multimillion-dollar ransom windfall.

The Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf apparently posted on social media a short video showing its members with stacks of the Philippine currency, which they said was ransom for two German hostages freed last month.

In the video, Abu Sayyaf spokesman Abu Rami claimed the money on display in a jungle setting was the full 250 million pesos ($5.7 million) demanded for releasing the captives. “If this is really ransom money, then they can use it for evil purposes like buying more arms,� military spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Harold Cabunoc told reporters.

Military chief General Gregorio Catapang also warned that the showcasing of the money may encourage other kidnappings, but said the money on display might not be real.

German and Filipino authorities have refused to disclose whether a ransom was paid to secure the release of the Germans.

The video was taken off Faceboook and not available for general viewing on Wednesday. But a major daily newspaper carried a photo grab from the two-minute clip on its front page.

A local reporter with Abu Sayyaf contacts who viewed the video before

it was taken offline said he believed the video was genuine, although it was not possible to say whether the money was indeed the ransom payment.

The Germans – Stefan Okonek, aged in his 70s, and his partner, Henrike Dielen, in her 50s – were freed on October 17 on the remote southern island of Jolo after six months in the hands of the Abu Sayyaf.

Philippine authorities said the Germans were snatched at sea as they sailed a yacht near the western Philippine island of Palawan.

The Abu Sayyaf, founded in the 1990s with seed money from the AlQaeda network of Osama bin Laden, is blamed for the worst terror attacks in recent Philippine history.

These have included frequent kidnappings for ransom of Christians and foreigners in remote areas of the southern Philippines with minority Muslim populations.

Philippine authorities are believed often to help in the ransom negotiations, but never admit any involvement.

Officially, the government has a noransom policy.

The military estimates the Abu Sayyaf only has about 400 armed fighters.

But the group enjoys the support of some local Muslim communities and is believed to sustain itself through its lucrative kidnap-for-ransom business.

Bandits are also known to kidnap people and then sell them on to the Abu Sayyaf.

$3,800 a month for 5 years. After completion of the plan payments, the liens will be removed. But even with the entire family contributing to plan payment, $3,800 a month for 5 years is burdensome and difficult to pay even for the entire family.

Another alternative is to refinance the house and pay off the liens. But this would be a long-term mortgage and mother would never agree to this. It took her 30 years to pay that off, and at her age, a mortgage on the house is the last thing she wants, even a reverse mortgage would not give her peace of mind. The only other alternative is the settle the liens for the least amount possible. The problem is that settlement requires a lump sum payment. Even at 50% settlement, $117,000 would have to be produced from somewhere. But that’s $117,000 that client does not have. Another alternative is to settle the $60,000 for half or $30,000 cash, and pay the larger lien of

$175,000 through Chapter 13 at $2,900 a month, about a thousand less at least than $3,800 a month if both liens were outstanding.

Believe it or not, we were able to remove the liens with the least amount of cash out possible, and there is a happy ending to this, which I will discuss next week. “Cast all your anxiety on God because he cares for you.� - 1 Peter 5:7.

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

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

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Pablo Picasso’s “Guernica” was created in response to the bombing of Guernica, a Basque Country village in northern Spain, by German and Italian warplanes at the behest of the Spanish Nationalist forces on 26 April 1937 during the Spanish Civil War.

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On Tuesday, November 11, we will again fly our flag high to honor and remember all our veterans and those who sacrificed their lives for us. In retrospect however, those of us who in one way or another have loved ones who either perished or survived due to war, have always wondered what it was really like to go to war.

In one of a series of panel discussions I have attended in our local library recently, we discussed the book of Karl Marlantes entitled “What It is Like to Go to War.” The library’s goal of Castner’s powerful book called “The Long featuring the program is to “spark a pub- Walk.” He served as an officer with the lic conversation about how our community US Air Force from 1999 to 2007 from can best support the process of reincorpo- Saudi Arabia, to Iraq to Kirkuk, serving rating veterans into the fabric of civilian three tours of duty as head of the explolife.” The panel discussion presented vi- sive Ordinance Disposal Unit or wherever sual images and quotations on the “Chang- IED’s were discovered.” He and his men ing Nature of Warfare Technology and its “would lead the way to disarm the deadly Effect on the Soldiers.” Shown for example devices or searching through the rubble were World War I images of: General and remains for clues to the bomb makPatton’s Saber, the British Mark V Tank, ers’ identities, And when robots and other B-29 Superfortress Bomber, Tomahawk remote means failed, one technician would Subsonic Cruise Missile, MQ-1 Predator suit up and take the long walk to disarm (which looked like the current Drones), the bomb by hand.”

An analysis of Pablo Picasso’s “Guerthe Renault FT Tank, Messerschmidt BF 109 Fighter Jet, Bell UH-1 Iroquois and of nica” or war painting in 1937, visibly course, the significance of Pablo Picasso’s depicted the “devastating and chaotic impact of the Spanish-German war on “Guernica” painting.

In his book, Karl Marlantes describes both men and women, using black as a war as: “this is just a platoon Commander, background which symbolized death and the lowest-ranking officer in an infantry agony, incorporating horses and animals unit, which itself has the lowest level of in geometric form, reminiscent of the sophistication in weaponry. In today’s start of cubism, as an art form. The paintcombat environment, this lowly lieuten- ing also delved on the meaning of victory ant can call in bombs from B-52’s flying and defeat with the infusion of the Spanso high, they are unseen and Tomahawk ish bullfight where the matador becomes missiles fired from some 500 miles at sea, victorious in the end.

Thus, on Veteran’s Day, the war expewith the accuracy of a rifle at 200 yards..”

Further, Marlantes described his Marine riences as chronicled by these brave men experience in Vietnam as “ try to get this should always remind us of the “long cost frame of mind. Try, because the world of combat and the brotherhood of men at needs you. If you can, you can’t. I will arms” as well as the “reality of the excounter by saying you’re tragically cut off hausted mind” describing each soldier’s from a very deep part of yourself - tragic poignant experience of “what they did, for all of us, not just you. I loved this what they saw and ultimately, what they power , I love it still. And it scares the hell have become.”

Let us all celebrate and be reminded out of me.”

RAF Pilot John Beard wrote: “ “It was that on Veteran’s Day, we pray for all those really a terrific sight and quite beautiful. who perished for our freedom, and salute First, they seemed just a cloud of lights, the brave veterans who have likewise deas the sun caught the many glistening fended us and sacrificed their lives to set chromium parts of their new engines, their us free. God bless our veterans! windshields, and the spin of their airscrew discs. Then, as our squadron hurdled nearer, the details stood out, I could see the bright yellow noses of Messerschmidt fighters sandwiching the bombers, and could even pick out some of the types.

The sky seemed full of them packed in layers thousands of feet deep. They came on steadily, wavering up and down along the horizon.”

Finally, a significant observation was written by Generalieldmarshall Albert Kesserling and he said: “Patton had developed tank warfare into an art, and understood how to handle tanks brilliantly in the field.

I feel compelled, therefore, to compare him with Generalfieldmarshall Rommel, who likewise had mastered the art of tank warfare. Both of them had a kind of second sight in regard to this type of warfare.”

What it was really like to go to war, was also poignantly described by Brian

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Series for Covered California: Part 2 – Eligibility Who is eligible? As long as you are a Californian, have a Social Security number, not incarcerated and have legal presence then you are eligible to have Medi-Cal or Covered CA plan. Whether you’d be in Medi-Cal or Covered CA is an income eligibility ques

tion. In the next article, I’ll discuss in depth about income eligibility. CA. For example, the husband may already California driver’s license, California be in Medicare. Or the husband has insurID, and student ID are common proofs of ance from the company. So the wife thinks being a Californian. that only her info is needed. Or perhaps Several proofs of legal presence are the children already have existing Mediacceptable. If you are US born, you don’t Cal so they need not to apply anymore. In even have to show proof unless Covered these situations, the info of the husband or CA asks for it later. If you are a US citizen the children still need to be presented too. but not US born, the best proof is the Cer- Why? Because Covered CA needs to verify tificate of Naturalization or the Certificate plan eligibility, income and subsidy based of Citizenship. US passport is also very on the info of all the household members. well accepted. If you are not a US citizen, Even if a person is not eligible, perhaps but you have eligible immigration status, because he has no legal presence, his info then you can apply with Covered CA too. like name, birth date etc must still be preCommon examples of documents proving sented. For example, a family of four (4) legal presence are Permanent Resident with undocumented parents who want to card (Green card), temporary I-551 stamp apply for their children can simply say the on passport, I-94 or I-94A, Employment parents do not want health insurance but Authorization card (Work permit), and I-20 their info is still needed. People do not need of non-immigrant students. For those who to worry about Covered CA sharing their are petitioned, have not received the Green immigration or other info to institutions card yet but had already received their irrelevant to securing health insurance I-797, the Notice of Action document, can because Covered CA will not share it. also apply. Complete list of documents for The best rule of thumb is to include the eligibility can be found here: https://www. info of all the taxpayers and dependents in coveredca.com/faqs/Request-for-Verifica- a tax return in one Covered CA application. tion-CLP/PDFs/Document-List.pdf.

You can find updates on Covered CA When you are applying, even the infor- at www.facebook.com/globalwealth.insurmation of those who do not want health ance. If you need help renewing or enrollinsurance need to be known to Covered ing, please call 855-955-1800.

DOT LAUNCHES

From page 1

held in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and New York in partnership with GTT International/Majestic Vacations, one of the biggest airline consolidators in the United States. Various Asian airlines, namely China Airlines, Southern China Airlines, Eva Air, Cathay Pacific, and Delta Airlines are lending their support to this program.

Through this campaign, DOT aims to generate inbound tourist arrivals from North America as the Philippines focuses on becoming the ultimate destination next year with the recent launching of the “Visit the Philippines Year (VPY) 2015.�

The tourism campaign, spearheaded by Ms. Ma. Corazon Jorda-Apo, Director, Market Development, features Philippines’ popular destinations like Manila, Palawan, Subic, Coron, El Nido, Bohol, Boracay, Laoag and Davao, among others as a part of a dual destination tour packages or an extension tour destinations of other Asian cities such as Taiwan, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Beijing. The series of product presentations will equip Chinese tour operators and travel agents with knowledge and information necessary to sell the Philippines as part and extension of their tour packages.

The product presentations are just one

US NAVY

From page 1

Normally, two or three US Navy ships make routine port calls every month for resupply in Subic, a former US naval base about an hour’s drive from Manila, said Garcia.

He said the authority had been informed of the cancellations by the Subic chamber of commerce, which includes the company that services US ships.

However Garcia could not say why the visits were cancelled. US embassy officials declined to comment.

Jennifer Laude, a 26-year-old transgender Filipina, was found dead on October 12

of many promotional activities lined up by the DOT to brand the Philippines as a travel destination among Chinese-Americans and mainstream Americans, who are seen to most benefit from the campaign.

Officers from the DOT offices in Los Angeles, San Francisco and New York agree that “The opportunity to partner with GTT International and to work with the different airlines allow the Philippine Department of Tourism to effectively reach out to outbound American travelers who have not been fully introduced to the amazing and excellent Philippine destinations.�

In 2013, the number of tourists from the United States reached 652,626, 15% of the total tourists arrivals of 4.68 million.

Chinese visitors, on the other hand, totaled 426,352, a 69% increase growth from the previous year.

The year 2015 is being eyed as a banner year for the Philippine tourism, with the exciting mix of events and activities lined up for the year starting with the Papal Visit in January, the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit, to the unveiling of more historic treasures, natural wonders, and excellent adventures. To top it all, the Filipinos’ inherent hospitality, friendliness and optimism are what make it “More Fun in the Philippines.� (MVIlagan) in a cheap hotel near Subic with marks of strangulation on her neck.

US Marine Private First Class Joseph Scott Pemberton, who had just finished taking part in US-Philippine military exercises in Subic, had checked into the hotel with Laude and was the last person seen with her, police said.

Pemberton is now detained at Philippine military headquarters while prosecutors consider charging him.

Activist groups have seized on the incident to attack the defense ties between the United States and its former colony.

Frequent street protests have been staged against the US forces.

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SAYANG From page 1

“Sayang at pinili ng ating Bise Presidente na tanggihan ang imbitasyon ng mother committee ng Blue Ribbon na dumalo at humarap sa pagdinig tungkol sa mga isyu na nakaharap sa kanya sa kasalukuyan,�

Guingona said. “Sa pagtanggi ng Bise Presidente sa imbitasyon ng mother committee, sinayang niya ang mahalagang pagkakataon para iparating sa mga kababayan natin ang panig niya,� he added.

Guingona said Tiangco and Bautista delivered a letter, asking that Bautista be allowed to read a prepared statement addressed to the Blue Ribbon Committee

BAD PRECEDENT From page 1

the hearing but the behavior of Senators Alan Cayetano and Antonio Trillanes IV changed his mind. “You assured me in your letter that if I were to show up in the Senate, I will be accorded a fair hearing and I will be given the respect that befits my position as Vice President of the Republic.� “However, recent events, especially the behavior of Senators Trillanes and Cayetano, gave me reason to doubt such an assurance,� Binay wrote.

He cited, for example, the refusal of the senators to recognize his representatives in the October 30 hearing. He also noted the Senate leadership failed to call the attention of the bullying of some of its members. “They continue to demonstrate this in their continued bullying, debasement, suppression and intimidation of ordinary people whose testimonies contradict their conclusion,� he said.

He said the senators continue to violate due process and individual rights, treating resource persons like “criminals.� “I am saddened that all this time, not once have the leaders of the Senate took notice, reminded, or called the attention

9

chairman.

Afterwards, the two will submit an affidavit from the vice-president.

Guingona said the Senate committee took a vote and agreed that the statement would not be read during the committee hearing.

Regarding Binay’s affidavit, he said the vice president’s camp can submit the same to the Blue Ribbon Committee to form part of the records. “Sayang itong panahon. This would have been the proper time and forum so that the issues surrounding this controversy will be properly ventilated,� Guingona said.(MNS)

of the senators for their wanton disregard of individual rights and of the law. Those invited to the hearings are ‘resource persons in aid of legislation,’ in other words, they were invited to help craft laws, as contained in the resolution. But they have been treated like criminals,� Binay said.

He said he cannot accept the assurance from the likes of Trillanes that he will be accorded respect.

Yesterday, Trillanes was quoted as saying: “We will make sure that he stays there, he sits there for at least six hours and that’s being generous kasi madami kaming itatanong sa kanya. He should clear his schedule, he should cancel his appointments, talagang marami s’yang ipapaliwanag.�

Binay said: “If these senators were not even admonished in the past eleven hearings, and if my authorized representatives were treated like criminals, I see no assurance that I will be given the chance to speak freely, that my rights will be recognized, or that the Office of the Vice President of the Philippines will be accorded the respect it deserves.�

Nonetheless, Binay submitted an affidavit to the mother committee.

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Potential issues due to false claims on Form I-9 Employment Eligibility All too often, legitimate short-terms concerns of putting food on the table and paying housing and other living expenses lead individuals to taking desperate measures of falsely claiming that they are eligible to work in the United States. Many do not even realize that the false claims made to an employer may in the long run cause problems when seeking to legalize their immigration status. Individuals must understand that certain false claims made to an employer may in fact render them forever ineligible to become a green card authorized to work in the US cannot legitimately complete and the Form I-9. As holder.

All employers in the US are required to a result, many resort to falsely claiming have all new employees complete the I-9 that they are either a US citizen, green Employment Eligibility Verification form card holder, or alien authorized to work.

Individuals who falsely claim to be a (Form I-9). The top section of the Form I-9 must be completed by the employee US citizen on the Form I-9 must underno later than the first day of employment. stand that such a false claim may render As well, the employer must examine them permanently ineligible to become a documents evidencing their employment lawful permanent resident.

This permanent bar applies even if the eligibility within three days of their comindividual is married to a US citizen and/ mencement date.

The top section of the Form I-9 re- or has children who are US citizens. A quires the employee to choose one of the false claim to US citizenship on a Form following categories: 1) a Citizen of the I-9 that is made on or after September 30, United States; 2) a noncitizen national of 1996, which is when the Illegal Immigrathe United States; 3) a lawful permanent tion Reform and Immigrant Responsibilresident; or 4) an alien authorized to ity Act (IRAIRA) was enacted, renders work. Clearly, an individual who is not an individual permanently inadmissible

from the US. There are absolutely no waivers available for the false claim to US citizenship.

On the other hand, a false claim to US citizenship on a Form I-9 that is made before September 30, 1996, does not subject the individual to the permanent bar. As well, because the false claim on the Form I-9 is not made to a US government official, the individual has not committed fraud or misrepresentation under the immigration laws.

Similarly, an individual who falsely claims on a Form I-9 to being a lawful permanent resident or alien authorized to work has not committed fraud or misrepresentation under the immigration laws. This is also because the false claim is to the employer only and not to a US government official.

In these situations, despite not having committed fraud or misrepresentation under the immigration laws, individuals are too often erroneously informed by the immigration service that they are required to apply for a fraud waiver in order to legalize their status.

Unknowing of their rights, individuals proceed with filing the hefty fee and the fraud waiver application. Not only are the funds wasted, but being granted a

fraud waiver is difficult as an applicant must have a qualifying relative and prove that the qualifying relative would suffer extreme hardship if the waiver is not granted.

Many individuals choose to falsely claim being a US citizen as it is perceived to be easier to obtain work in the US. This short-sightedness, however, could have really damaging long-term ramifications because of the serious penalty for falsely claiming to be a US citizen. Individuals need to understand their rights so that they can make informed choices, as well as challenge the immigration service should an erroneous assertion of fraud or misrepresentation be made. Individuals should have legal counsel who is familiar with these intricacies in the law.

For further information, please schedule an appointment with an attorney at Aquino & Loew, Certified Immigration Law Specialists; (888) 797-1140 or (626) 799-3089; info@aquinoloew.com.

Please also visit Aquino & Loew at www. aquinoloew.com and connect with us on Facebook and Twitter. Aquino & Loew also handles family law and criminal matters. Providing Personalized Service Nationwide & Abroad Since 1996.

Nov.4 election highlights American spirit of volunteerism

The Sams knew what freedom mean having come from South Africa where as Asians they experience being discriminated against as a result of apartheid, “where system of systematic segregation, established by the state authority in a country, against the social and civil rights of a certain group of citizens, due to ethnic prejudices is practiced.”

The couple had been deprived under the system of the rights, association and movements like the majority of black inhabitants of South Africa where the Afrikaner minority ruled. Apartheid was enforced from 1948-1994.

Victor and Dorothy were opposed to the segregationist policy as deep in their heart freedom should be enjoyed all. For some 50 years, the couple had been deprived some basic human entitlements.

A divine appointment led to their meeting at a mass action and had since been joined by a commonness of their belief.

America and the democratic ideals it represents has become a perfect environment for what they believe and provided the venue for their innate altruism and compassion to others.

Their adopted home have been the fertile ground for the spirit of volunteerism and joined others in embracing a unique culture where thinking about the welfare of others has become second nature.

The Sams are recipients of a Presidential Volunteer Election Award for “demonstrating in the last five or more elections the kind of commitment to the community that moves America a step closer to the great promise”.

Victor and Dorothy who are also active in other community ministries derive their strength apparently from the joy of serving others through their God-endowed gifts which they generously share. They are part of an army of volunteers in America where serving others has become a way of life.

In a recent study of the Corporation for National and Community Service, 26 percent of Americans volunteer. Some 60.8 million made themselves available for volunteer work according to the six-year report which involves 60,000 households and 162 large and mid-sized cities around the county. The report also indicated a growing number of volunteers who dedicate substantial time to serve.

The low voter turnout in the last elections might have come as a big disappointment with many failing to exercise their valuable right to participate in a process considered sacred and a privilege.

The November political exercise, however, marked a high point in the lives of septuagenarians’ Victor and Dorothy Sam, who for many years have made available their spruced up garage

of their Anaheim home to be used as a polling place. of their labor in achieving the American The couple refused to “retire” in spite dream since making America their adopted of their seeming ability to enjoy the fruits home years ago.

MULTI-ETHNIC OC CHURCHES: The Annual Missions Festival of the Orange County Southern Baptist Church in Fountain Valley offered an opportunity for multi-ethnic Christians in Orange County to enjoy a day of mutual celebration and an avenue to showcase the other beautiful aspects of their cultures. It was Filipiniana day sort of for the women of Cornerstone Christian Fellowship of Orange County to show the Philippines colorful fashion courtesy of (L-R): Clory Ramirez, Christy Bocz, Susan Havana, Josie Perrine and Mila Lobarbios.

VOTING TURN-OUT: A disappointing low voters turned characterized last November 4 election but to Dorothy (checking the pollworkers) and Victor (behind, tending the computer of the election) it was a high event in the years of opening their doors of their Anaheim abode for the democratic exercise as they have done for more many elections..

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Long 12-hour shifts, no overtime pay, and no breaks? time to stop the abuse!

Kindred Healthcare Inc. operates hospitals, nursing centers, and rehabilitation services nationwide. In 2010, it was sued by its employees in California, who alleged that Kindred violated labor laws by failing to pay the correct overtime rate, failing to provide meal periods, and failing to give accurate itemized wage statements to its employees. After years of litigation, the parties agreed to settle. Kindred will pay the employees a total of $16.5 million for back wages, penalties, “time and a half.” For a 12-hour schedule, and attorneys’ fees. any work beyond 12 hours shall be paid Kindred’s employees work on Alterna- “double time.” Any work done on a fourth tive Workweek Schedules (AWS). AWS 12-hour day must be paid double time after agreements allow employers to legally 8 hours. schedule employees to work up to 12 hours How Should They Be Paid if Required per day within a 40-hour workweek with- to Work Lesser Hours Than on the AWS out paying them overtime pay. Employees Shift? who work on AWS are vulnerable to exThe Kindred employees were “flexed ploitation and should pay attention to the off” and required to work fewer hours than those in their AWS agreement. “Flexed following issues: How Should They Be Paid if They Work off” employees must be paid time and a half for work beyond 8 hours for the day Outside the AWS Shift: For a 10-hour schedule, any work be- but less than the 10 or 12 hours required yond 10 and up to 12 hours shall be paid by the AWS.

How Should Their Overtime Pay Be Computed if They Are Paid A Shift Differential or Shift Bonus?

A differential pay is considered part of wages and included in computing the overtime rate. Example: Employee is paid $30 per hour plus a $3 per hour shift differential. If the employee worked overtime, the differential pay of $3 per hour is included in computing the overtime rate.

Thus, the regular rate should be $33 per hour. For time and a half, the overtime rate is $49.50/hour, not $45/hour.

How Many Meal Breaks Should They Get During a 10- or 12- Hour Shift?

Hourly employees are entitled to a 30-minute uninterrupted meal period for every 5 hours of work. Twelve-hour shift employees are entitled to a second 30-minute meal period, which can be waived in writing.

If a meal period is not provided, or not provided on time, or is interrupted, employees are entitled to one additional hour of pay for each day the meal break is missed. Missed meal periods also raise

No house arrest but court allows Gloria Arroyo to visit grandson’s wake for six days MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) -- Former President and incumbent Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has been allowed to visit the wake of her grandson daily, from November 4 to 9, at North Forbes Park, Makati.

Mrs. Arroyo will also be allowed to attend the burial scheduled on November 10.

In an earlier motion, the former Philippine leader asked for a nine-day temporary house arrest to attend the wake of her 13 month old grandson, Jorge Alonso “Jugo” Arroyo Bernal, who died Sunday of a congenital heart disease.

But instead of a temporary house arrest, Mrs. Arroyo will be allowed to visit Jugo’s wake from 12 noon to 10 p.m., from November 4-9.

Likewise, the Pampanga lawmaker will

be allowed to attend her grandson’s burial on November 10, from 7 a.m. to 3 pm.

Earlier, the prosecution panel on Tuesday argued that the incumbent Pampanga lawmaker should only be given 24 hours to visit the wake of her departed grandson, citing the former President’s numerous ailments, During oral arguments Tuesday, the prosecution panel said that while they understand Mrs. Arroyo’s grief, she is still an accused in a non-bailable offense.

They added that Mrs. Arroyo, who has constantly complained of ailments, which led to her hospital arrest, might be too weak to endure nine days out of the hospital.

“The accused’s situation is delicate, and it

might be detrimental to her health [to be out of the hospital for nine days.] We emphasize that we understand the situation, but she is the accused in a non-bailable case. [We would like to propose] a 24 hour pass only, either on the wake or burial,” Prosecutor Gidget Rose Duque said.

Mrs. Arroyo’s lawyers, however, said that it was a risk the former president was willing to take. “It’s a risk she’s willing to take. Mahal na mahal niya yung apo niya eh. Kaya iyak siya nang iyak ngayon. Tuwing nagpupunta ako, madalas andun yung bata kasi nga sobrang close nila, palagi silang magkasama,” lawyer Jose Flaminiano told reporters after the hearing.

the issue of overtime pay.

How Many Rest Breaks Should They Get During a 10- or 12- Hour Shift?

Employees who work 12 hours per day are also entitled to at least three 10-minute rest breaks. If employees missed any of these rest breaks, they are entitled to an additional one hour pay at their regular rate.

[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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Waiver of joint petition to remove conditional permanent residency on a marriage entered less than two years The Immigration Marriage Fraud Amendments of 1986 (IMFA) requires an alien obtaining a green card through a marriage less than two years old to come back at the end of that two years with the petitioning spouse and show that they are still married or, if the marriage was terminated, to show that the marriage was entered in good faith before the USCIS will issue them a permanent (unconditional) greencard.

Any alien who obtains a green card through a spousal petition by riage was entered in good faith. virtue of a marriage entered less than However, sometimes alien spouses twenty four months before the status is are not able to file this Joint Petition to obtained will only receive a conditional remove the condition on their green card green card under INA §216(d). To remove because the couple got divorced or are in this condition, both spouses must file a the process of filing a divorce and is having form I-751 with the USCIS within 90 day difficulties getting the cooperation of the period preceding the expiration of the US citizen spouse. When the alien spouse conditional green card along with other falls into this situation, it is still possible supporting documents showing the mar- for them to obtain their permanent green

card by filing a waiver. The waiver must be based on one of the following reasons 1) Extreme hardship would result if such alien is removed 2) The qualifying marriage was entered in good faith by the alien spouse, but … has been terminated (divorce), and the alien was not at fault in failing to timely file the joint petition and attend the interview; or 3) The qualifying marriage was entered into in good faith by the alien spouse and during the marriage the alien spouse or child was battered by or was the subject of extreme cruelty perpetrated by the US citizen parent or permanent resident spouse or parent and the alien was not at fault in failing to file the joint petition and attend the interview. INA §216©(4); 8 CFR 216.5 If you have a conditional green card and your are having difficulty obtaining cooperation from your US citizen spouse in signing a joint petition to remove this conditional green card, you should consult an attorney to assist you in planning for and obtaining a waiver.

Please note that this article is not legal advice and is not intended as legal advice.

The article is intended to provide only general, non-specific legal information.

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

Attorney Kenneth Reyes is a graduate of Southwestern University School of Law in Los Angeles. He was President of the Philippine American Bar Association. He is a member of the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA) and the Los Angeles County Bar Association, Immigration and Family Law Sections. You may contact Atty. Reyes at (213) 388-1611 or via e-mail at kureyeslaw@gmail.com.

LAW OFFICES OF KENNETH REYES, P.C. is located at 3699 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 700, Los Angeles, CA.

UNA dares Alan Cayetano to file raps vs. Tiangco, Bautista

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MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – The two executives of the United Nationalist Alliance (UNA) booted out in the Senate Blue Ribbon Subcommittee’s hearing on October 30 called Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano “a coward” on Thursday and dared him to be “man enough” to file criminal charges against them if he thinks their interruption of the probe was a criminal offense.

UNA interim president and Navotas Rep. Tobias “Toby” Tiangco said he and interim secretary general Atty. JV Bautista will not apologize to the subpanel for appearing unexpected during the October 30 hearing because they have been authorized

by Vice President Jejomar Binay to speak on his behalf.

“My challenge to Sen. Cayetano is for him to be man enough (magpakalalaki siya)! File a criminal offense against Atty.

JV and me. We won’t apologize for our actions because we believe we didn’t do anything wrong. Don’t forgive us; we’re not asking for an apology,” Tiangco said.

Addressing the tabloid reporters in the Senate conference room, Bautista said: “This would make a good headline for tomorrow: ‘Cayetano, a coward! ‘Be man enough!’ (Cayetano, duwag. Magpakalalaki ka!)”

Tiangco and Bautista held a press brief-

ing in a Senate conference room after they were barred by the Senate blue ribbon committee from reading Binay’s prepared statement explaining his absence at Thursday’s hearing, which was organized specially for him.

Committee chairman Senator Teofisto Guingona III said he was outvoted when the panel deliberated on the request of the Vice President’s camp.

Tiangco said the presence of only four senators in the mother committee’s hearing – which should ideally be attended by the majority of its 18 members – further proves the hearing is held “purely for politics’” sake.

‘We’re not welcome’ Bautista expressed disbelief that Cayetano is a lawyer “because of the shortcuts he’s been doing” in the hearing. The UNA official also scored the lawmaker for saying in an October 8 hearing that the Vice President’s camp is welcome to submit evidence and send witnesses to testify on the alleged overpricing of the Makati City Hall Building II. “Si Cayetano, welcome nang welcome pero noong dumating kami, hindi na kami welcome. Ano ba ang kinatatakutan niya?

That I will prove him wrong? I’ll prove him wrong if they give us the opportunity,” he said.

Snake ‘eats’ man, sets off Internet tizzy WASHINGTON, November 6, 2014 (AFP) – A young American naturalist, filmmaker and adventurer in the Amazon set off an Internet stir Thursday after he claimed he offered himself for dinner to a giant snake for a TV show.

“I’m Paul Rosolie and I’m about to be the first person to be eaten alive by an anaconda,” he said in a 30-second video on Twitter promoting a new show, “Eaten Alive,” to be telecast on the Discovery Channel on December 7.

A longer teaser posted by the network on YouTube shows Rosolie donning “a custom-built snake-proof suit” to enter the belly of the fearsome reptilian beast head-first.

“It’s a tease and a promo for now,” a Discovery Channel spokesman told AFP on Thursday, adding that further details about the show – to be aired worldwide by the reality TV cable channel – would be released “soonish.”

On his Twitter feed, Rosolie told his followers: “If u know me - I would never hurt a living thing. But you’ll have to watch

#EatenAlive to find out how it goes down!”

Social media and tabloid websites jumped on the story, but animal rights group PETA, fearing for the welfare of the snake, demanded that Discovery pull the show.

“Whatever the filmmaker has planned, the snake will likely pay the ultimate price, as animals usually do when they’re used for entertainment,” it said.

Green anacondas, native to tropical South America, are among the biggest snakes in the world. The one seen in the “Eaten Alive” teaser required at least seven men to hold it.

Earlier this year, Rosolie – who divides his time between New York, India and Peru – published a book about his adventures, titled: “Mother of God: An Extraordinary Journey into the Uncharted Tributaries of the Western Amazon.”

In 2013 he won a short-film award at the UN Forum on Forests for his documentary “An Unseen World,” according to a biographical blurb on the website of publisher Harper Collins.

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Bong Revilla asks to be allowed to undergo checkup MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – Detained Senator Ramon “Bong” Revila on Thursday asked the Sandiganbayan to allow him to undergo a medical checkup for numerous ailments.

In a three page motion, Revilla asked the court to allow him to be checked at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig City “at the soonest possible time as may be permitted by the Honorable Court.”

Revilla listed several illnesses, including a migraine-related disease and weakening of the bones in his lower back and legs, as well as hypertension and excess cholesterol in the blood as reasons for the need for a checkup.

“Senator Revilla moves for permission to be allowed to undergo medical check up and some diagnostic tests by reason of his being diagnosed to have the following medical problems: Migraine headache in status Migrainous; Lumbo-Sacral Radiculopathy secondary to Spondylosis; Hypertension not well controlled; Dsylipidemia,” the motion said.

Revilla’s lawyers also attached a medi-

cal certificate from the detained senator’s doctor, Ma. Cristina Macrohon-Valdez.

“This is to verify they I have seen and examined Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr.,” the medical certificate dated October 1 said.

Macrohon-Valdez said Revilla needs to undergo four medical exams, including the following: MRI-MRA of the Brain with gadolinium contrast Plain lumbosacral MRI Cardinal work-up Blood chemistry The senator requested that the medical exams be conducted at St. Luke’s Medical Center in Taguig since according to his lawyer, Atty. Joel Bodegon, the PNP General Hospital has no adequate equipment to perform the said medical tests.

Revilla is currently detained at the PNP Custodial Center over allegations of graft and plunder. The senator allegedly conspired with businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles to siphon off millions in public funds by diverting his pork barrel to Napoles’s bogus NGOs. (MNS)

SC: Judiciary won’t return unspent funds MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) – The Supreme Court (SC) has invoked the fiscal autonomy of the judiciary in thumbing down procedures adopted by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) that require the courts to return to the National Treasury and the department’s control any unspent cash allocations.

In a ruling by the high court en banc, the SC, acting on clarificatory pleas by the DBM and Commission on Audit (COA), stressed that under Section 3, Article VIII of the Constitution, appropriations for the judiciary “shall be automatically and regularly released.”

The high court pointed out that the judiciary has the authority to use any unspent allocations or savings within the branch for as long as it is compliant with auditing and accounting rules and procedures.

“Cash allocations to the judiciary, released pursuant to its approved appropriations, may not be allowed to lapse and shall remain under the control and accountability of the respective concerned agencies in the judiciary,” the high court said.

The high court also allowed the transfer of balances of Notices of Cash Allocations (NCAs) to its bank account(s).(MNS)

Aquino pushes for dev’t plan for better business climate in Bangsamoro MANILA, Nov 6 (Mabuhay) – With the proposed Bangsamoro Basic Law already being tackled in Congress, President Benigno Aquino III on Thursday pushed for a development plan for the new political entity, which is seen to replace the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

In a speech in Davao City, Aquino said his administration had laid the foundation for a better business climate in Mindanao and the Bangsamoro region in the coming years.

The President particularly trumpeted the signing of a comprehensive peace pact betwen the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) last March.

“We are confident that the Bangsamoro Development Plan can be harmonized with our efforts and build on the progress that we have made at the soonest possible time,” Aquino said at the Philippine Development Forum on the Bangsamoro.

The forum, spearheaded by the Bangsamoro Development Authority, seeks to come up with a draft six-year development plan for the Bangsamoro region, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, livelihood, and social services.

MILF chairman Murad Ebrahim joined Aquino and Cabinet officials during the event In September, Aquino personally submitted to Congress the draft Bangsamoro Basic Law, which will embody the peace pact between the MILF and the government.

The measure is currently undergoing committee deliberations both at the Senate and the House of Representatives.

‘Development boost’ Also in his speech, Aquino said the government has already made headway in improving economic activities in the future Bangsamoro region and the rest of Mindanao.

The President said over P53 billion has been allocated for infrastructure projects in Mindanao next year.

“The development boost that we have given to Mindanao include investments to infrastructure which is necessary for the region to be a competitive destination for investments,” he said.

He added that Mindanao is poised to have an “energy surplus” in 2015 after years of experiencing massive power outages, with two new power plants going online.

“In terms of power, Mindanao is also looking at full recovery. The region might even have power security ahead of Luzon,” Aquino said.

In a separate speech during the event, Presidential Adviser on the Peace Process Teresita Deles said the crafting of a development blueprint for the Bangsamoro goes hand in hand with the passage of a law creating the political entity.

“The Bangsamoro Development Plan shall ensure that the wealth of the region, reinforced by the wealth of the entire nation, will be deployed to serve common good and welfare,” Deles said.

(MNS)

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More aggressive loans for homeowners with one year of Short Sale, Bankruptcy or Foreclosures Lenders are not going to take this tightening any longer, they are coming out with very creative loans to bypass the so called “QM” Qualify Mortgage that is so hurting the real estate and lending business for years. We don’t have to rely on Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac due to their strict buy-back program and really uncertain guidelines they have imposed on major banks and lending institution. Here is one among other that you might be able to work with.

We will not call it Alternative Loan but we will call it an A-Minus Loan Refinance and Cash out Refinance. OCProgram. These are definitely beneficial CUPANCY: Owner Occupied (Primary for previous homeowners with short sale, Residence), Second Home & Investment bankruptcy and foreclosure just over a year Property  PROPERTY TYPE: SFR, ago. I will discuss the guidelines in order Townhomes, PUDs, Condos Attached for you to be able to work on it and hope- PUDs, Condos Project ( case by case). fully start buying your new home instead Terms : 5/1 LIBOR ARM Interest Only of paying high rental rates to a landlord.

Option: 5 Year & Interest Only then 25 Loan Types: Purchase, Rate/Term Year full amortization QUALIFYING

RATIOS Max. DTI: 43% higher DTI will be considered on a case by case basis.

Down payment : 65% LTV or 75% CLTV. Minimum Credit Score requirements: 620 Credit History : You have to be really clean the past 12 months, no lates on any accounts.

Income Documentation: Full Docs required, with 2 years of Taxes and W-2s.

This loan is very unique but you have to be able to source out a minimum of 25% to 35% to be able to get this loan.

NO TAX RETURNS AND 4506T REQUIRED Have you heard of the Bank Statement only program? Here’s a little twist that might be just right for self-employed borrowers, here a few options for Bank Statement Programs: Option 1: 12 months of Bank Statements 12 months of consecutive month’s personal bank statement and Borrower prepared Profit and Loss Statement.

All deposits must be sourced to deter-

mine if funds came from a business source.

CPA letter verifying % of ownership and borrowers has been self-employed for minimum of two years.

Option 2 : Business P&L Statement: CPA or tax preparers firm prepared the most recent 12 month P&L to show net income from the business.

Three months of personal bank statements required to match the net income shown on the P&L’s.

Reserve requirement is also a major factor these loans are going to very firm with, here they are: Loan amount up to $ 1,000,000.00 borrowers must have 9 months of verified PITI in reserves.

Call Ken Go of 1st Innovative Finance Group, 28 years in the Mortgage Lending Industry helping your buyers and borrowers qualify easily into a house. Call Ken at 562-508-7048 or write to Kennethgo@ verizon.net.

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VA guarantees its 21 millionth home loan Milestone comes during year-long commemoration of 70 years of the GI Bill WASHINGTON – The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced this month that it has guaranteed 21 million home loans since the Home Loan Guaranty program was established in 1944 as part of the original Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944, better known as the “GI Bill.”

This achievement comes during the yearlong commemoration of 70 years of the “GI Bill,” which established a wide range of benefits for Veterans returning from World War II, including low-cost home loans, education and vocational training.

“This vital program offers Veterans, Servicemembers and their families the keys to homeownership and is truly a testament to our Nation’s commitment to enhancing the lives of those who served our country,” said Allison A. Hickey, VA’s Under Secretary for Benefits. “Twenty-one million home loans guaranteed, with the last one million guaranteed in just two years, is just one example of how VA employees are privileged to continue to serve and give back to our Veterans through the GI Bill.”

VA’s Home Loan Program provides housing-related benefits and services to make home ownership possible and affordable for eligible Veterans, Servicemembers and surviving spouses, who want to buy,

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build, repair or adapt a home. Nearly 90 percent of all VA loans are made with no down payment. In fiscal year (FY) 2014, the Home Loan Program guaranteed roughly 35,000 loans per month, resulting in a total of 438,398 VA home loans guaranteed for the year. The total value of all outstanding VA loans exceeds $380 billion. During FY 2014, the program also approved 1,253 grants to seriously disabled Veterans for the purchase, modification, or construction of a home specially adapted to meet their individual housing needs.

Through loan servicing efforts, the Home Loan Program also assisted nearly 80,000 borrowers avoid foreclosure in FY 2014. These actions saved taxpayers nearly $2.8 billion in avoided claim payments. Data from the Mortgage Bankers Association show that mortgages guaranteed by VA have had the lowest foreclosure inventory rate for the last 25 quarters when compared to all other types of home loans in the nation, including prime loans.

Veterans may obtain a certificate of eligibility for a VA-guaranteed home loan through the joint Department of Defense— VA web portal eBenefits, at http://www. ebenefits.va.gov, or by contacting their lender.

For more information about the VA Home Loan Program, visit the program’s home page atwww.benefits.va.gov/homeloans.

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WASHINGTON, November 3, 2014 (AFP) – US consumers are likely to spend $89 billion shopping online during the holiday season, a healthy rise despite fewer selling days, Forrester Research analysts said Monday.

The rise for 2014 is expected to be 13 percent, despite a late Thanksgiving, which shortens the traditional gift-giving season, Forrester analysts said.

“Shoppers turn to the web during the time-pressed period between November and December to avoid crowds, lines, and, in many cases, higher prices,” said Forrester’s Sucharita Mulpuru, “This holiday season, e-commerce will experience a boom... as seasoned online consumers are growing more comfortable and reliant on the practice.”

Mulpuru said the sales rise and short span between Thanksgiving and Christmas will strain the delivery networks that get packages out to consumers.

“With the expected 13 percent increase in e-commerce sales in 2014 for the months

of November and December as compared to the same period in 2013, retailers and consumers must recognize the risk of shipping delays,” she said in a blog post.

The National Retail Federation said last month it expects overall holiday sales this year to rise to $616.9 billion, a 4.1 percent increase from last year’s level.

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Is your family-owned business struggling financially?

The recession has been tough on a lot of small businesses.

And if you have a family-owned business that is your only source of income, the business may not even be making enough to pay its own expenses- let alone pay you. Good business practice says that you should pay yourself first but in practice this is not what really happens.

The government believes that the purpose of your business is to pay taxes. The community believes that your purpose is to pro- but you’re not in business unless you’re vide jobs. But do you know what your real making money.

If this sounds too blunt and insensipurpose is or SHOULD BE? It’s to make money! That’s right! Your business exists tive, I apologize. My intention is not to get in your face… it is to remind you that for the sole purpose of making money.

There’s nothing wrong, unethical, self- if you’re in this situation YOU NEED TO ish or immoral about that. That’s why you LEAD THE RECOVERY EFFORT until went into business in the first place. If you’re profitable again. No one cares about you’re a corporation, you have a legal and your business as much as you do. You ethical duty to your shareholders to con- can’t delegate this responsibility to your duct your business such that you maximize employees, your accountant or anyone else.

If you’re having cash flow problems, your profits at all times. And if you are the only shareholder, that means you owe that you may need to cut your spending to the bare minimum. Necessary bills must be duty to yourself.

If you’re not making money, you’re paid and priorities must be set by you. You NOT in business. You may be going to need to track of every penny that goes in work every day, working your tail off… and out of your business. If there was ever no time for yourself or your family… a time in your business where your leaderyou may be going through the motions, ship was needed, it’s NOW.

For the last 15 years, I have counseled hundreds of small business owners in finding a solution to their debt problems.

I don’t claim to know everything and as a business owner myself, I am still learning myself. But one thing I’ve learned is to always come up with a Plan B if Plan A doesn’t work. If you need a confidential attorney consultation, call my office at

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866-477-7772 to schedule one. We have offices in Pasadena, Valencia and Cerritos.

(None of the information herein is intended to give legal advice for any specific situation. Atty. Ray Bulaon has successfully helped thousands of clients in getting out of debt. For a free evaluation of your situation, please call Ray Bulaon Law Offices at TOLL FREE 1-866-477-7772.

They have offices in Pasadena, Valencia and Cerritos.)

Matatapat na Filipino host team sa Pechanga Resort & Casino nag-aalay ng VIP Advantage Ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay nagbibigay-daan sa mga pinagpipitagang VIP customers ng mga eksklusibong pinamimigay at promosyon upang maranasan ang pribilehiyong pang VIP. Ang Filipino host team ay namamahagi sa inyo ng makabagong booking sa hotel rooms, restaurants, entertainment at show tickets, bilang ng golf tees at marami pang iba.

Sumali sa Pechanga Rewards Club para sa mapagkaibigan at atentibong serbisyo nina Marylou Bean, Dolores Salvador, at Vhergie DeJesus.

Marylou Bean pinanganak at tubo sa Pilipinas. Dumating siya sa California taong 1980s at nagsasalita ng purong Tagalog at English. Halos 20 taong karanasan sa casino, si Marylou ay natatangi na makapagpapatunay na siya’y nagmula sa mababa tungo sa rurok ng tagumpay. Nagsimula siyang mag trabaho sa Pechanga bilang isang Rewards Club ambassador. Nalipat sa Player Development bilang casino host. Kanyang ginampanan ang naturang tungkulin mahigit 10 taon na at palagiang bumabati sa mga bisita sa malugod, at kaanya-anyayang ngiti.

Dolores Salvador, pinanganak sa Pilipinas, naghahatid ng kayamanan base sa karanasan sa kanyang tungkulin sa Pechanga Resort & Casino. Humigit sa 20-taong sa industriya ng casino, hilig niyang tumulong sa mga tao. Siya’s nagsasalita ng Visayan, Tagalog at English at karaniwang nasa Pechanga Resort & Casino upang tumulong sa mga bisita sa casino mula 2005. Si Dolores ay nananatiling aktibo sa Filipino Community sa Southern California.

Vhergie DeJesus nag-aalay sa mga bisita 100-porsiyento araw-araw sa Pechanga Resort & Casino. Siya’y bihasa sa Tagalog at English at mayroong 10 taong karanasan sa industrya ng casino, gayundi’y may 10 taon sa guest service sa industriya ng hotel and restaurant management. Siya’y nag-empleyo sa Pechanga Resort & casino mula 2004 at nakakilala ng libo-libong mga tao, at kanyang natatandaan ang mga ito.

Ang kanyang kahawa-hawang pag ngiti ang nakaka-engganyo upang tumawa rin ang mga tao.

Nagkamit ng Walong Pinakamataas na Papuri, ang Pechanga Resort & Casino sa Casino Player Magazine at Southern California Gaming Guide sa Taunang “Best Of” Awards

Kamakailan lang, ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay ibinotong pinakatampok na casino sa Southern California sa 8 natatanging kategorya mula sa taunang survey ng mga mambabasa ng...

Casino Player Magazine - (Best of Gaming: 2014 Native Southwest Poll) • Best Golf Course: Journey at Pechanga • Best Hosts • Best Table - Game Tournaments • Best Video Poker • Casino na may Best Facebook Page Southern California Gaming Guide (Best Casinos 2014 Poll) • Best Casino Resort • Best Resort Rooms • Best Poker “Sa Pechanga, masusi naming pinagiibayo ang paghahandog ng totohang kakaibang karanasan sa lahat ng aming mga bisita - sa casino floor, sa hotel, sa spa at golf course, at upang makilala ng mga bisita sa ganitong larangan sa lahat ng aming kakayahan ay isang papuri, “ ayon kay Rudy Prieto, Resort & Casino General Manager.

Inaalok ng Pechanga Inaalok ng Pechanga Resort & Casino ang isa sa mga pinakamalaki at malaganap na kasiyahan na pang resort/casino kahit saan sa buong bansa. Hinirang na “Four Diamond property” ng AAA mula pa noong 2002, ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay nagbibigay ng walang katumbas na paraan para sa isang araw o pang-matagalang marangyang bakasyon. Naghahandog ng mahigit sa 3,000 sa pinaka mainit na slot machines, table games at world-class entertainment, 517 na kuwarto sa hotel nito, mga kainan, spa at championship golf sa “Journey at Pechanga,” ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay tampok na destinasyon na tumutugon at humihigit sa kagustuhan ng mga panauhin nito at ng komunidad.

Ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay pagaari at palakad ng Pechanga Band ng mga Luiseño Indians. Para sa karagdagang impormasyon, tumawag sa 1-877-7112946 o pumunta sa www.Pechanga.com.

Sundan ang Pechanga Resort & Casino sa Facebook.com/Pechanga at Twitter @ PechangaCasino. Ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay bukas ng 24 oras. Ang mga panauhin ay dapat na may edad 21 anyos at pataas para makapasok sa casino.

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Covered California is open for business Calling all who are lawfully present in the U.S., less than 65 y/o, middle-, low- or no income! Covered California welcomes you. Open enrollment starts Nov 15, 2014 and ends Feb 15, 2015.

Unless you have a qualifying event that entitles you to a special enrollment (anytime during the year), open enrollment offers you the opportunity to select a health plan at the only marketplace

where you can use tax credits (and subsidies) to lower your premiums – mind which a health coverage brings. Get regular medical check up. Don’t be comCovered California.

Those who have enrolled last year or placent that because an Emergency Room early this year and wish to renew their is available anytime for any emergency, it coverage have nothing to do if they want is always the best option. Then may be too to remain in their current plan because late. And, yes, avoid that 2% of adjusted they will be auto-enrolled. Let me urge gross income penalty !

Covered California will be ready. They you though to check other plans for better benefits and if your doctor is still in have beefed up their enrollment staff by the network. If there have been changes certifying more enrollment counselors and in your life like getting married, having a agents; increased the number of customer child, moved residence, lost a job, increase service representatives to reduce the phone (decrease) in income, report these events call waiting time; they brought in a new to Covered California now. If you wish to hire to improve their computer systems change plans, do it during open enrollment, performance. They can accommodate or before Dec 15, 2014 so you won’t have enrollees with language issues by hiring a gap in coverage. interpreters in other languages like SpanThose who are not enrolled in any health ish, Chinese, Korean, Tagalog, etc. plan, use this opportunity to get health covDespite these improvements based on erage. Move from a world of “coping� to lessons learned, enrollment in a health a world of “security�, having that peace of plan thru Covered California will not be

Elections show increased support for legalizing PHILIPPINES DEALS/ASIAN PROMOpot

By Michael Thurston

LOS ANGELES, NovemberBORACAY 5, 2014 (AFP) – Washington, DC andPALAWAN Oregon BOHOL as voted to legalize marijuana Tuesday, DAVAO across the United States referendums were held on issues ranging from gay marriage to abortion, on the sidelines of midterm elections.

Alaska also appeared set to decriminalize pot, according to partial results posted as the long election night drew to a close in the far northwest of the country.

Oregon and the US capital provided

a new high for the marijuana lobby, two BEIJING years after two other western US states, LUMPUR Colorado andKUALA Washington, led the way in HONG KONG approving cannabis for recreational use.

SINGAPOREresults, voters apIn other referendum proved increases in the minimum wage in states including Arkansas, Illinois, Nebraska and South Dakota, according to partial results posted online.

On marijuana, Washington, D.C. approved the measure by 65 percent in favor and 28 percent against, while Oregon passed by 54 percent to 46 percent.

smooth sailing, I predict. There will be bumps and glitches. Late in this journey towards health coverage, most are yet unaware of how their health coverage works, much less choose a plan that matches their particular needs.

Get help. From Covered California certified agents. It’s free!

Many have gained the competence thru experience and training. Some have even acquired the passion to help you.

While you can do it yourself, I urge you to enroll with the help of a certified agent.

He will guide you thru the process of enrollment; and after enrollment, if, God forbid, you encounter problems with your health coverage, you will need a strong advocate by your side.

That role will be played by your certified insurance agent.

If you need help, you can call me at

323-535-7373 or, e-mail at: leo.balita@ gmail.com.

Medicare Alert: Medicare members are still on the open enrollment period. It started Oct 15 and will end on Dec 7, 2014.

Please compare the plans and find the right match for you.

Those who have End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD) or are undergoing dialysis, there is now a company that offers a Medicare Advantage Plan specifically for you.

Leo Monsalud hails from Sta. Cruz, Zambales. He studied for his MBA and LAW at the University of the Philippines.

He worked for UNILAB where his last position held was vice-president in charge as general manager of a division. He was a joint-venture partner of the San Miguel Corporation in an agri-business project.

He holds CA lic # 0G55218 as well as a Non-Resident license for Nevada.

18

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OPINION

Gov’t aiming for zero tents in Yolanda-hit areas by end of Nov

Perilous year for typhoon mothers

MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) – No more survivors of super typhoon “Yolanda” living in tents.

That is the objective, according to Social Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman, as construction of houses in Yolandahit areas continues.

Soliman said around 500 families will be transferred to permanent houses by next week while government is working with the private sector in relocation efforts.

“We will have zero tents by end of this month. There are 146 families living in tents and everyday we’re moving them to transitional shelters together with Oxfam, Green Mindanao and International Organization of Migration,” she said.

“In Guiuan, it’s going to be 250 houses by the end of this year,” she added.

While reconstruction takes time, National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) chief Alexander Pama said it is better to be cautious than to rush efforts.

“Saying ‘building back better’ is babalik na naman tayo doon kung anong naging dahilan ng devastation. In fact maybe that’s one of the reasons why there are some delays as claimed by a lot of other sectors, and there would be a lot of naysayers about this.”

“We will not only be building back better but we will bounce forward,” Pama said.

Leyte Governor Dominic Petilla said his province is also reviewing evacuation procedures and disaster preparedness programs, with locals taking their cue from the Yolanda experience.

“Yung sa resiliency kasi, pag sinabi mo kasing resiliency, para sa akin nasa tao ang resiliency... I think people are more learned na sa mga lessons,” he said.

Aside from government’s vow to build back better for Yolanda survivors, an expert believes the Philippines must also reduce hazards and other disaster risks.

Toni Loyzaga of the Manila Observatory said Filipinos must be trained to prepare for extreme weather events to avoid massive destruction.

“It’s tempting to say that engineering can be the solution to everything. However, human vulnerability is at the core of disasters,” she said.

“Disasters are really the combination of three elements: the hazards, the exposures and the vulnerabilities. If you didn’t have any exposure of vulnerability, there would be no disaster.”

TACLOBAN, November 4, 2014 (AFP) – Emily Sagalis gave birth on a concrete slab after battling storm surges that killed thousands, then like many new mothers in razed communities of the Philippines began another perilous struggle for survival with her baby.

About 250,000 women were pregnant in areas hit by Super Typhoon Haiyan a year ago, and in the weeks that followed babies were born on shattered roads alongside corpses, in the rubble of destroyed buildings and other places where exhausted mothers lay without adequate or any medical care.

Successful deliveries, such as for Emily, became powerful moments of hope for traumatized families struggling in the typhoon’s desperate aftermath, as well as for those involved in a massive international relief effort.

The strongest winds ever recorded and storm surges higher than two-storey buildings destroyed entire towns in already poor farming and fishing areas, killing or leaving missing more than 7,350 people.

“She is my miracle. I’d thought I would die with her still inside me, when high waves came and took us all away,” Emily, then 21, told AFP as she lay on the concrete slab moments after giving birth to Bea Joy. The birth took place three days after Haiyan amid the ruins of the airport in Tacloban, one of the worst-hit cities.

Emily had survived the tsunami-like storm surges, which killed her mother-in-law and wiped out her shanty home, by holding onto a fence with one hand and protecting her swollen belly from crashing debris with her other.

She then rested at an evacuation centre with hundreds of other survivors, before going into labor and frantically catching a tricycle to the airport, where the military had set up a makeshift hospital.

But for every “miracle baby”, many others died because of a lack of medical care shortly after the typhoon, and then over the next year from malnutrition, illness and other complications, according to aid groups such as Save the Children and UNICEF. “We know mortality goes up for newborns in a typhoon affected community,” Save the Children Philippine country director Ned Olney told AFP in an interview ahead of Saturday’s one-year anniversary of Haiyan.

There are no official figures for the number of babies who died in the year after the typhoon.

But an average of 750 babies have been born every day in the typhoon-hit communities, including

By Karl Malakunas

during those initial weeks and months when access to medical care was at its worst, according to Olney, whose organisation played a big role in providing aid to newborns and children.

“It was common that children were being born every day on the side of the road wherever there was space, in unhygienic conditions,” Olney said.

Infections, respiratory illnesses and hypothermia are the typical killers of new-born babies in disasters such as Haiyan, according to Olney.

Bitter start Even for the babies that survived, most begun their lives in bitter poverty.

Emily and her husband, Jobert, spent the first few months after the disaster living in a shanty on the same site as their previous home in San Jose, a small fishing town facing the Pacific Ocean on the outskirts of Tacloban that was almost entirely wiped out by tsunami-like waves.

When AFP visited them three months after Haiyan, the trio was completely reliant on the food, money and other aid donated by relief organisations.

Living at the site of so much death haunted them.

However, at least their shelter was packed with sacks of donated rice and canned goods, while a charity group had set up a tent nearby from which it was giving out hot meals for mothers and their children.

A year after the typhoon, Jobert, Emily and Bea Joy’s lives are much more desperate.

They are living in a temporary shelter built by a Canadian aid group next to their old home, but it has no electricity, toilet or running water, and the thatch walls fail to keep out heavy rain.

The emergency aid stopped flowing many months ago and Emily, who is still breastfeeding, has lost a lot of weight. Rotting teeth are revealed when a smile flickers across her face while playing with Bea Joy. Nadir Their nadir came a few weeks ago when their food stocks dwindled to almost nothing, with Jobert having to buy from local stores on credit and still spend days without eating.

“They are my family so they ate what we had,” said Jobert, whose skin clings tightly to his bones.

“I couldn’t let them go hungry. Sometimes I cried. But as long as they could eat, that’s all that mattered.”

They have since taken a tentative step away from that precipice, with Jobert securing a two-month contract doing manual labour for 260 pesos ($6) a day.

Friends recall Flavier’s humility, dedication MANILA, Nov 4 (Mabuhay) – A fitting reminder to a department now embroiled in controversy.

That was what became of former Senator and Health Secretary Juan Flavier’s necrological service at the agency he served from 1992 to 1995.

Flavier’s humility, simplicity, honesty and dedication to public health service were the recurring themes of the necrological service where eulogies were delivered by the deceased’s close colleagues at the agency.

Flavier’s remains arrived early Tuesday at the Department of Health (DOH) compound in Manila for the 8 a.m. service.

The remains were accompanied by members of the Flavier family and received by DOH officials led by Health Acting Secretary Janet Garin.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona caught up with the service in what would be his first public appearance since news broke that he has gone on a month-long leave due to an allergy as well as questions from President Benigno Aquino III on their immunization program.

First to deliver a eulogy was Dr. Susan PinedaMercado, Flavier’s former head executive assistant, who recalled how Flavier connected with the field officers and barangay health officers of the DOH. She also recalled how Flavier formulated his “Let’s DOH it” programs for the agency like Oplan Alis Disease, Yosi Kadiri, breastfeeding, Doctors to the Barrios, and community billboards, among

others.

She also recalled the brilliant communicator that Flavier was and how he matched the work ethic of his boss, then President Fidel Ramos. She also shared Flavier’s lighter side and his propensity for jokes.

She also shared how Flavier was unperturbed by his critics, who attacked his advocacy on family planning, condom use and tobacco control.

Despite the fact that some of his critics were from the Catholic church, Pineda-Mercado maintained Flavier did what he did to glorify God. Tireless and brave, Flavier was said to have gone to as far as Sulu to ensure the delivery of medical services.

Another colleague, Juan Nanagas, also recalled Flavier’s sense of humor when he attended budget debates as DOH secretary.

He recalled how Flavier initially thought being in the Senate was not for him – and how fate had other plans because Flavier ended up becoming a two-term senator.

Ramon Navarra spoke about how volunteers came to work on Flavier’s senatorial candidacy, and how the Catholic church managed to affect his senatorial rankings in 2005 from number 1 to 5.

He also recalled how Flavier did not use his pork barrel funds and instead diverted these to the Landbank so that these may be used for loans to farmers, and how he built some hospitals and other health infrastructures.

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Weekend, Sat. - Fri., November 8 - 14, 2014

New twist in hacienda Binay The noose around the neck of beleaguered Vice President Jojo Binay ( a.k.a. Lord of Makati) and his family concern earning allegations of corruption is getting tighter every day.

The Binay family and their dummies are also facing the prospect of losing their multimillion peso 350-hectare “Hacienda Binay” property in Rosario, Batangas to farmers as it should be subjected to land reform because of its size. Senator Miriam Defensor Santiago, in a recent press

conference, said she will file a Senate Resolution next week to call on the anew the latest senate invitation for him to Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) answer corruption charges leveled against to immediately acquire and distribute the him and his family. Ever since the Senate controversial property farmers living in started to probe the alleged gargantuan the town of Rosario. She added that there unexplained wealth of the former Makati must be some “magic “ done in the man- mayor and his family from day one, Binay ner on how the “ hacienda Binay” property has remained steadfast in his decision to was illegally acquired and converted from ignore the ongoing senate hearing. agricultural land to an agri tourism busiBusinessman Antonio Tiu claimed ness property. ownership of the land property by showSantiago also bared that she will ask the ing senators a one page memo agreement, Senate Blue Ribbon Committee headed which was not even notarized, between him

by Senator Teofisto Guingona III, to in- and the alleged owner, Gregorio Laureano. vestigate DAR officials for their failure to But DAR records has no records showing place the “ hacienda Binay” under agrar- that Gregorio is a land owner in the town ian reform. This is a good move made by of Rosario. Neither is he listed as a farmer Santiago. Perhaps this might compel Tiu to in government records to show if he could spill some secrets to save his skin. be a farmer beneficiary.

The feisty senator pointed out that the Under CARL, the DAR has to issue Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law a CLOA (certificate of land ownership (CARL) bans the existence of properties award)! Or, an EPA (emancipation patent) like “hacienda Binay”. She said “it is not before any person can claim ownership of possible that an agricultural land, which an agricultural land. If Gregorio was not appears to be the nature of Rosario town, the owner or a farmer beneficiary, he could should be left as an hacienda when all oth- be fronting for somebody. He is a dummy er haciendas have been virtually taken from for who? No doubt but of course for Binay. their owners.” The DAR, Santiago said, And Tiu? For all the lies he peddled before should get the “hacienda Binay” property senate investigators, should be jailed for since it violated the CARL or the agrarian contempt for lying. reform law, which limits land ownership of Senator Santiago made an interesting agricultural land to only five hectares. The point when she said that even if the senate “hacienda Binay” is much, much more than will assume that Gregorio is the owner of the allowable five-hectare limit. the property or farmer beneficiary, there This new twist in the Batangas prop- is no way he can legally sell or lease the erty came out a day after Binay snubbed property within 10 years from registration

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without approval from DAR. It is very interesting to note that a 145or 350-hectare agricultural land can escape the eyes of DAR officials from being converted into an agri tourism business property. Senator Santiago must be right when she told reporters that the owners of the hacienda Binay and DAR officials can be sued by the government for falsification of public documents and of illegal conversion of agricultural land to commercial land.

As a result of his refusal to submit himself in a senate inquiry, more and more people are having the impression that there is really truth to all the corruption charges thrown at the Vice President and his family.

Even most of his political allies, except a few like Congressmen Tiangco and Remulla, remain silent on the issue.

I think the longer the impasse between the much maligned Binay and the senate remains unresolved, the more it will hurt the

19

vice president’s badly damaged reputation and integrity. As I have mentioned in the past, this is not the first time that Binay’s reputation and integrity as a public official has been questioned.

Binay however has been coddled by his political benefactors, including the likes of former President Cory Aquino, former Senators Aquilino Pimentel and and Joker Arroyo. It is an open secret among Makati residents that Binay has contributed large chunk of campaign funds to both Pimentel and Arroyo during their long tenures in the Philippine Senate. There was also a story that has been retold hundred times about how the Binay family made life “easy” for Joker Arroyo during the Martial Law years.

I am really frustrated that the expected “senate showdown” between “nognog” and the “three stooges” will not happen.

As they say in Tagalog, “abangan ang subsunod na kabanata.”

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FOOD & DINING

Mini Pumpkin Pies

FAMILY FEATURES

T

he holidays are a special time of year to celebrate and connect with family and friends. From a cookie swap at work to a formal holiday dinner at home, with the right kind of recipes and a little planning, any holiday gathering can be a sweet success.

But, before you tie your apron strings and grab your rolling pin, avoid the last minute trips to the store by stocking up on baking staples like flour, butter, sugar and especially eggs.

As a versatile and affordable ingredient, eggs can be used in everything and offer limitless baking possibilities — from pies to cookies to eggnog. Plus, at 15 cents apiece, they can be an affordable way to feed a crowd for the holidays.

For holiday recipes, baking hacks and more, visit IncredibleEgg.org and Incredible Eggs on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Sugar Cookie Cut-Outs Prep time: 15 minutes Chill time: 2 hours or up to 2 days Cook time: 8–10 minutes per batch Yield: 4 dozen cookies 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup granulated sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla 1 egg, room temperature 2 egg yolks, room temperature

Prep time: 35 minutes Chill time: Several hours or overnight Cook time: 35–37 minutes Yield: 6 mini pies Crust: 3 cups all-purpose flour 1 teaspoon salt 1 cup vegetable shortening, cold 2 egg yolks 6–8 tablespoons ice water, divided 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Filling: 3 eggs, slightly beaten 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1 cup half and half To make unbaked crusts, mix flour and salt in large bowl. Cut in shortening with pastry blender until pieces are size of small peas. Mix egg yolks, 6 tablespoons ice water and lemon juice in small bowl.

Add to flour mixture, 1 tablespoon at a time, stirring lightly and tossing with fork until moistened and dough just holds together. Add remaining ice water, if needed. Gather dough and shape into six 1-inch-thick disks. Refrigerate, wrapped in plastic wrap, 1 hour or overnight.

Roll out each dough disk on lightly floured surface, rolling from center to edge, to form 6-inch circle. Fold into quarters; ease and unfold into 4-inch pie plate. Press pastry gently against bottom and sides of pie plate, easing out any air. Trim edge

leaving 1/2-inch overhang. Fold overhang under; flute edge. Refrigerate, covered, at least 30 minutes.

Heat oven to 400°F. Whisk eggs, pumpkin, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, ginger and cloves in medium bowl. Beat in half and half. Pour approximately 2/3 cup into each mini piecrust.

Carefully place pies on rack in oven.

Bake 15 minutes. Reduce oven to 350°F; continue baking 20–22 minutes or until knife inserted midway between center and

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edge of pie comes out clean.

Cool completely on wire rack. Refrigerate, loosely covered, until firm, several hours or overnight.

Garnish with toasted pecans and whipped cream.

Chocolate Peppermint Crinkles Prep time: 30 minutes Chill time: 1 hour or overnight Cook time: 8–10 minutes per batch Yield: 6 dozen cookies 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 cups granulated sugar 1 package (12 ounces) or 2 cups semisweet chocolate chips, melted, cooled 3 eggs, room temperature 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1 teaspoon peppermint extract or vanilla 1/3 cup powdered sugar, sifted 1/4 cup crushed peppermint candies or candy canes 1/3 cup granulated sugar, for rolling Mix flour, cocoa powder, baking powder and salt in large bowl.

Combine sugar, cooled chocolate, eggs, oil and peppermint extract in mixer bowl.

Beat on medium speed until blended.

Gradually add flour mixture, beating on low speed until blended.

Refrigerate, covered, until firm enough to shape, about 1 hour or overnight.

Heat oven to 350°F. Mix powdered sugar and crushed candy in small bowl.

Work with 1/3 of dough at a time, keeping remaining dough refrigerated. Shape dough into 1-inch balls; roll in granulated sugar first and then in crushed candy mixture. Place 2 inches apart on parchment paper-lined or ungreased baking sheets.

Bake in oven until lightly browned, 8–10 minutes. Cool on baking sheets 1–2 minutes. Remove to wire racks; cool completely.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

Actor Jake Cuenca surprises Colina Salon clients Actor Jake Cuenca Suprised Colina Salon Clients at Thanksgiving Event!

Long Beach – Last Tuesday (Nov. 4) was the VIP Clients Pre-Thanksgiving Celebration of Colina Salon. It was an afternoon full of music, food, drinks, raffle prizes and posing for pictures. The event was a gesture of Colina Salon’s givingback to their loyal clients over the years.

“I believe that my clients deserve a treat once a year. My VIPs are the backbone of the business. They are the reason why up to now we are still here to serve them, and withstand the test of time,” Celebrity hairstylist Marlou Colina said in his public statement.

Before the event ended, Marlou brought his surprise to his clients, and it was no other than one of Philippines’ biggest actors – Jake Cuenca – who also models.

Jake, himself, experienced the best shampoo with blow-dry service, and some MC hair care products at Colina Salon.

Colina Salon is located at 3505 Long Beach Blvd Suite 2E Long Beach CA

90807. Call for appointments Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at 562.988.3101 or visit www.colinasaloninc. com.

Celebrity hairstylist Marlou Colina and Jake Cuenca (seated).

Bridal beauty prep: A 3-month countdown (Relaxnews) – For brides-to-be, it takes several weeks of planning to look stellar on the big day. Here is a guide to which beauty preparations to plan and when.

Three months before the wedding: Hair What type of hairstyle will you wear down the aisle? Though you don’t have to lock into a specific style three months out, this is the time to decide if you want to grow your hair long for an elaborate up-do. Likewise, if you plan to go with a shorter style, now is the time to try it on for size.

For those with brittle or damaged hair, there is still time to start taking vitamins to ensure healthy and lustrous locks on the big day.

One month before: Skin According to Chanel makeup artist Claire Blavet, a deep facial cleanse can sometimes bring out impurities and cause temporary blemishes. So this step should be carried out around 30 days before the wedding, allowing the skin time to heal.

More importantly, during these final weeks, take especially good care of your skin. This means washing your face once or twice a day with a gentle cleanser and an exfoliating cloth for a smooth, clear complexion, always following with a moisturizer adapted to your skin type.

For brides-to-be, planning takes several weeks to look stellar on the big day.

Brides-to-be may also consider buying a thermal water spray, which can be applied to the face to keep the skin fresh and hydrated at all times.

One week before: Waxing and hands Since you will have to raise your arms to throw the bouquet, and since you’ll want to flash your legs on the dance floor, book your waxing appointment one week before walking down the aisle.

Why so early? This gives the skin time to heal from any irritation or red spots.

Also, since your hands will be in the spotlight on the big day, it is important to make sure they are as soft and smooth as

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“I believe that my clients deserve a treat once a year. My VIPs are the backbone of the business.

They are the reason why up to now we are still here to serve them, and withstand the test of time,” Celebrity hairstylist Marlou Colina (second from left) said in his public statement.

possible. If you don’t have time to book a hand treatment at a spa, at least make sure to apply hand moisturizer regularly, at least once a day.

One day before: Nails and skin Now that your hands are fully moisturized, it’s time to think about your nails.

All eyes will be on your hands during the exchange of the rings, so it’s best to avoid chipped nail polish by waiting until the last minute to get your manicure.

This is also a crucial moment when it comes to the skin. Claire Blavet advises against using heavy, oily moisturizers near the eye area the day before the wedding, as this may cause puffiness. For the lips, however, don’t hesitate to apply a thick, ultra-moisturizing balm to ensure your pout is healthy and plump when you wake up in the morning. And of course, hydrate the rest of your face liberally with your favorite lightweight moisturizer.

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Adventure starts at Subaru of Glendale

The 2014 Subaru XV Crosstrek Hybrid. It’s the perfect blend of all-wheel-drive capability and long-distance efficiency. Love where it takes you.

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Subaru, Forester, Outback, Tribeca, Legacy, Impreza, WRX, STI, and SUBARU BOXER are registered trademarks. Purchase or lease any new (previously untitled) Subaru and receive a complimentary factory scheduled maintenance plan for 2 years or 24,000 miles (whichever comes first).

See Subaru Added Security Maintenance Plan for intervals, coverages and limitations. Customer must take delivery before 12-31-14 and reside within the promotional area. At participating dealers only. See dealer for program details and eligibility.

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COMMUNITY 14th JFAV Veterans Day rally in Hollywood Nov.11 Los Angeles, November 3, 2014 – The Justice for Filipino American Veterans, an alliance of veterans organizations, community advocates, youth and students announced that they will march for the third time in 14 years on Veterans Day, November 11, 2014 in Hollywood, Los Angeles to dramatize and remind America of their broken promises and unfulfilled pledges to our veterans and relatives.

JFAV National Coordinator Arturo P. Garcia said, “The HollywoodVeterans Day March will start at 11:30 at the assembly area at Hollywood and Ivar St. The groups will assemble at 10:30 a.m. for a pre-rally that will start at 11 a.m. The other assembly areas are at The Filipino American Community of Los Angeles(FACLA) at 9;00 Am for the Veterans, widows, youth /students and community advocates.

There will be a pre rally and an orientation for volunteers and marshals at FACLA. “Garcia also said, “Aside from JFAV-LA other groups that will march on November 11 are FACLA, S4PACE, ANSWER-LA, Echo Park Community Coalition (EPCC).

Philippinetown Inc .(PTI),Pro People Youth (Kabataang makaBayan (kmB), KMB Sessions LA, Kababayan Alliance of UC Irvine, PASK, CalPoly Pomona Barkada, XPO. TDB Boys, Samahang Pilipino of UCLA, UCR Katipunan, CSUN, Pasadena City College and other groups.

Fight Systemic Racism and Racial Discrimination JFAV described the history of the Filipino veterans struggle as , “ On July 26, 1941, six months before the war, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt conscripted the 120,000 army of the commonwealth of the Philippines into the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) making the Philippines, the US Garrison outside of the US mainland.

During the war, USAFFE surrendered but not the Filipino people and they waged a three year long war of resistance and rallied again under the US colors and liberated the Philippines from the Japanese yoke. For their military service , at least 250,000 USAFFE soldiers and guerillas were recognized by the US Army as American soldiers making them eligible for veterans benefits. But six months later on February 18, 1946, the 79th US Congress declared their “military service inactive” and until now, 68 years later they remained unrecognized as American veterans. Out of the 66 nationalities who fought during the war, only the Filipinos were excluded from benefits and privileges they deserved.

As if rubbing salt into the gaping wounds, the US Congress in 2008 did not pass the S 1350 that recognized the Filipino Veterans and that give them lifetime pensions but instead passed the ARRA Law of 2009 that gave them measly lump sum. But the most insulting about this law is that out of the 41,000 Filipino veterans who applied, only 18,000 were granted and more than 52% 0r 25,000 of them were denied their benefits.

Garcia also said, “ We have been marching for the last 14 years and have been lobbying at the US Congress at the US Congress and we only got was a lump sum and small benefits like healthcare. We will continue to march for equity and justice and we will not stop until we get justice and equity for our lolos and lolas and for community.”

For more information about the 14th JFAv March for Justice and Equity please call jfav at (213)241-0995 or email us pilipinokami76@yahoo.com or at our website at www.peoplescore.net and www.newfacla.org.

Martial law victims abroad can file their claims online

In the Philippine Government’s efforts to reach every victim of gross human rights violations during the Marcos regime, the Human Rights Victims’ Claims Board (HRVCB) is now accepting applications from human rights violations victims (HRVV) living and/or working abroad.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) informed the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C. on November 4, 2014 that the DFA and HRVCB signed on November 3, 2014 a Memorandum of Agreement on the provision of assistance to legitimate applicants abroad.

Claimants can start filing even without travelling back in the Philippines. Properly filled out application form, sworn statement/affidavits, and other supporting documents must be scanned in JPEG or PDF format and sent through email address, overseas@hrvclaimsboard.gov.ph, for pre-evaluation. HRVCB’s paralegals

will immediately check these documents for completeness and advise claimants accordingly via email. According to HRVCB, applicants cannot file directly in any Philippine Embassy/Consulate.

The application process and documentary requirements may be found at the website of the HRVCB, www.hrvclaimsboard.gov.ph.

HRVCB informs applicants that sworn statements/affidavits and special powers of attorney that have not been notarized may be scanned and sent by email to HRVCB for pre-evaluation.

These documents must subsequently be notarized and certified/attested as true copies of original at the nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate, which involves the payment of a US$25 processing fee.

Claims must be filed by November 10, 2014. Currently pending in Philippine Congress is the extension for another six months of the deadline to file claims.

PHL Embassy launches mobile app for Radio Tambuli Los Angeles, 04 November 2014 – The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles informs the public that as part of the commemoration of first anniversary of Typhoon Haiyan in November 2013, the Embassy of the Philippines in Washington D.C. has launched the “Radyo Tambuli” mobile application. Radio Tambuli is a virtual radio station seeking to deliver news about the Philippines to the Filipino-American Community in the United States. This mobile app is now available for download from both the Google Playstore and the Apple App Store.

The Philippine Embassy has partnered

with All Nippon Airways (ANA) for a year-long promotional campaign that involves the holding of two (2) raffle draws in March and September 2015.

Anyone who downloads the app will have the opportunity to register in the raffles with the winner in each of the two draws receiving a round-trip ticket to Manila from any point in the United States that is being served by ANA. The Consulate General of the Philippines in Los Angeles supports RadioTambuli’s goal to link the Filipino-American Community and empower them with positive knowledge about the Philippines.

Consumers encouraged to check utility bills for unfamiliar charges LOS ANGELES, CA – With the scorching heat that hit California the past few months, consumers may see high spikes in their utility bills. This sudden increase can cause several problems: the consumer may be unable to pay their bill, the consumer may be dropped from their California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) discount program, or the consumer may be in jeopardy of disconnection.

When a CARE consumer uses over 400% of their Tier 1 Baseline Allowance, the consumer will receive a letter from their energy company warning the consumer of their high energy usage. If the consumer fails to complete the verification forms by the deadline, the consumer can lose their CARE discount and be banned from applying to the program for 2 years.

There is also an alarming need for consumers to check their most recent utility bills because of unauthorized charges appearing from an unfamiliar company. In some cases, sales representatives of these third-party companies have pretended to be affiliated with the consumer’s regular utility company.

Misleading sales tactics can happen door to door or over the phone – in English or in Tagalog. It is very important that consumers are aware of scams because these third-party companies may mislead the consumer to switch gas companies without the account holder’s permission or without fully disclosing the details of the contract.

With over 10 years of consumer advocacy experience, a non-profit organization Campaign for Social Justice continues to provide free assistance to any consumer

of any income level, any background, and any language. Trained staff are available to resolve problems with different utility companies and in different languages such as Spanish and Tagalog. “May marami tayong kababayan na hindi pa alam kung saan sila pupunta kung nahihirapan sila sa kanilang mga ‘bill’ says Ivy Daulo, a Filipino outreach worker at CSJ. “Kung minsan, sa halip na magtanong tungkol sa mga singil na hindi nila sinasangayunan, humihiram sila sa mga kamag-anak o kaibigan upang maiwasan ang pagputol ng kanilang serbisyo. Kaya lang, sayang kasi mayroon naman programa na puwedeng tumulong sa kanila at libre pa.”[“There are many fellow Filipinos that still do not know where to go if they are having a hard time with their bills,” says Ivy Daulo, “A Filipino outreach worker at CSJ. “Sometimes, instead of asking about charges that they do not agree with, they borrow money from relatives or friends.

It’s unfortunate because there programs that can help them, and it’s free.”]

CSJ has helped hundreds of families and individuals resolve issues with phone and utility companies. This free assistance is made possible through the program Community Help and Awareness of Natural Gas and Electricity Services. If consumers do not agree with certain charges on a bill or would like to inquire about financial assistance, CSJ can offer confidential help.

Consumers can call CSJ directly with any questions about their bills with Southern California Gas or Southern California Edison. Contact Ivy Daulo at (323) 9878238 or email csj.ivy@gmail.com for info.

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US audience takes a glimpse of Filipino talents in ‘Blood Ransom’

By Pia Cabanela

Let’s face it. Young Filipino female talents back home are pin balled to doing two or more of a certain type of movie roles such as an aggravated mistress, the scorned wife, a damsel in distress or the adorable leading lady of an equally charming leading man. That is why I find Anne Curtis’ role in Francis De La Torre’s Blood Ransom just the whiff of fresh air I’ve been waiting for. Finally she is shedding tears for her own survival. Beyonce will be proud.

In 2011, De La Torre made noise at the Newport Beach Film Festival with the movie, Subject: I Love You. It was an acclaimed film based on the virus of the same name which impacted millions of computers worldwide back in 2000. This time, he directs yet another film which can easily

be construed as a love story to most but is only secondary to its dark plot.

The story opens with Anne as a lost soul who is days away from becoming a vampire. Her character seemed meek up front as she struggles between morality and the inevitable. A damsel, nay in distress, she is kidnapped in exchange for ransom and is protected by a man she loves. European born actor Alexander Dreymon is her mortal lover and guardian, whom comes off as a modern day Romeo, but is blindly fighting a chance for a reciprocated love.

“It was very risky to showcase Anne apart from the usual roles Filipinos are used to seeing her in. But I wanted to help open their minds and hopefully they’ll see it as Ä ®® and come to love the film and Anne.” De la Torre muses when we spoke on the phone before the film’s release in

the U.S. The film is dark and filled with intense emotions which were smartly cradled by the director’s choice in lighting and somber music. He recalls it was a “creative decision” to shoot most of the scenes at night.

Shifting hours resulted to a well crafted despair from Alexander’s character whom Francis describes as a morning person. The wide awake, almost somnambulist-like performance quickly draws its audience to his quest.

“I chose to mixed the temperatures, warm and cool, to enhance the duality in her (Curtis) character, there’s a cold yet warm human in her.” Francis explains.

Playing a cop and Alexander’s best friend Darion Basco praised the director for his style in letting the actors mold themselves into their character. “He was

respectful not just to Anne’s but to everyone’s process.” As a US based Filipino actor, Darion and I briefly discussed the noticeable Filipino pride across the film.

Snippets of Filipino culture are seen in a number of scenes, “I think the two cultures were fused well, we have a strong (Filipino) presence in California, our community is evolving.”

For the director, “It was not a conscious effort as a Filipino filmmaker but when you see the film, you’ll know it symbolizes more than what it seems. It felt organic that they were there.”. It may be a bloodsucking temptress amidst a morality and love, if anything, this film emancipates structures, of what a normal love is, of what females roles should be.

Blood Ransom in select theatres across Los Angeles starting October 31st.

Time Warner Cable in SoCal adds diversity with Myx TV Multicultural Asian American Entertainment Network Myx TV now available on digital channel 1454 LOS ANGELES, Calif. (November 3, 2014) - Myx TV, the only Englishlanguage multicultural Asian American entertainment network in the United States, announced today its launch on Time Warner Cable throughout Southern California.

Digital cable customers of Time Warner Cable in Los Angeles, San Diego, Desert Cities, CA and Yuma, AZ, can now tune to channel 1454 for acclaimed, buzzedabout original series that push the cultural envelope and shine a light on the quirks of pop culture and relationships. Whether it’s a docu-series examining the unexplored depths of Asian American culture like “I’m Asian American And...,” or a cutthroat reality competition series set against the backdrop of a thriving subculture like “Call to Cosplay,” or “Eat Your Words,” Myx TV delivers original programming that entertains and keeps viewers tuning in for more.

“California has the largest Asian American population in the U.S. and our availability on Time Warner Cable in Southern California will increase our viewership

Consumers encouraged to check utility bills for unfamiliar charges LOS ANGELES, CA – With the scorching heat that hit California the past few months, consumers may see high spikes in their utility bills. This sudden increase can cause several problems: the consumer may be unable to pay their bill, the consumer may be dropped from their California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) discount program, or the consumer may be in jeopardy of disconnection.

When a CARE consumer uses over 400% of their Tier 1 Baseline Allowance, the consumer will receive a letter from their energy company warning the consumer of their high energy usage. If the consumer fails to complete the verification forms by the deadline, the consumer can lose their CARE discount and be banned from applying to the program for 2 years.

There is also an alarming need for consumers to check their most recent utility bills because of unauthorized charges appearing from an unfamiliar company. In some cases, sales representatives of these third-party companies have pretended to be affiliated with the consumer’s regular utility company. Misleading sales tactics can happen door to door or over the phone – in English or in Tagalog.

beyond the Asian American community, to anyone interested incompelling, original entertainment with a multicultural twist,” said Miguel Santos, Myx TV general manager.

For more information on Myx TV, visit www.myx.tv. To gain access on Time Warner Cable, call 1-888-TW-CABLE (1888-892-2253) or visitwww.timewarnercable.com.

About Myx TV: Myx TV is the only English language multicultural Asian American entertainment network in the United States.

Broadcast in over 15 million households, the network is available in both linear and digital platforms, offering both live and on demand content. Myx TV’s award-winning

programming includes reality shows, live music performances, game shows, movies, and music videos. To find out more, visit www.myx.tv.

About International Media Distribution International Media Distribution (IMD) has been a leading provider of in-language programming in the U.S. for nearly two decades. IMD represents over 35 TV services with content from a variety of international sources: ABP News (Hindi), Antenna Satellite (Greek), ART (Arabic), ATV (Cantonese), CCTV-4 (Chinese), CTI-Zhong Tian Channel (Chinese), Channel One Russia, Dom Kino (Russian), DW Amerika (German), Eros Now (Hindi), Filipino On Demand (Tagalog), Life OK (Hindi), Lifestyle Network

(English/Tagalog) Mediaset Italia (Italian), Muzika Pervogo (Russian), Myx TV (English), Phoenix InfoNews (Chinese), Phoenix North America Chinese Channel (Chinese), Rai Italia (Italian), Rai News (Italian), Rai Premium (Italian), RTN (Russian), SBTN (Vietnamese), STAR India GOLD (Hindi), STAR India PLUS (Hindi), TFC (Filipino), Tivi5Monde (French), TV Asia (Hindi), TV JAPAN (Japanese), TV JAPAN HD (Japanese), TVK (Korean), TVK2 (Korean), TVK-Pop On Demand (Korean), TV5MONDE (French), TV5MONDE Cinema On Demand (French), VIJAY (Tamil), Vremya (Russian) and Zhong Want TV (Chinese).

International Media Distribution is an NBCUniversal company.

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ENTERTAINMENT

Aquino to attend MarianDingdong wedding

PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III is likely to attend the wedding of showbiz couple Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes in Quezon City on December 30.

In an Instagram post of television host Kris Aquino, she informed the couple that she already handed the invitation to the President and the latter “instructed to block off December 30”.

Kris wrote: “From yesterday, my future inaanaks @dongdantes & @therealmarian, gave PNoy your invitation & I heard him give instructions to block off Dec 30, 2014 for both of you.”

Dantes is staunch supporter Dingdong and Marian of the President. He is one of their personal effort to come to my the many celebrities who campaigned FENG SHUI set to invite me to be for the Chief Executive during the 2010 their Ninang! Thank You,” she posted presidential elections. on Instagram.

Meanwhile, Kris is one of the prinAside from Kris, other principal cipal sponsors of the December 30 sponsors are TV executives Lilybeth wedding to be held at the Immaculate Resonable, Wilma Galvante, directors Concepcion Cathedral in Cubao, Que- Joyce Bernal, Mac Alejandre, Mark zon City. Last October 31, the couple Reyes, talent managers Lolit Solis and visited Kris at the location of her upcom- Perry Lansigan, host German Moreno, ing Metro Manila Film Festival movie designer Randy Ortiz, showbiz couple “Feng Shui” to invite her personally to Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid, be their “Ninang.” and Star for All Seasons Vilma Santos“SUPER TOUCHED because of Recto. (MNS)

Bela and Marian hug it out for reconciliation MANILA, Nov 5 (Mabuhay) -- Actress Bela Padilla expressed happiness over her recent reconciliation with Marian Rivera, with whom she had a rift after she supposedly became too chummy with the latter’s fiancée, Dingdong Dantes, while working on “Endless Love” in 2010.

“I wanted closure na rin kasi. Medyo matagal na namin ’yun inaantay. Kasi tapos na kung ano man ’yung naging issue dati,” she said.

The actress shared that the reconciliation happened some months back with Marian herself asking common friend Sarah Lahbati to mediate between them.

“It’s so nice nu’ng nalaman ko na nag re-reach out siya sa akin,” she said.

Testament to their newfound friendship is Bela’s appearance on Marian’s eponymous dance show together with the actress-model Sam Pinto, who incidentally also had a past issue with Marian.

“When I went to the studio for the rehearsals, nu’ng nakita ko siya, we just smiled at each other and she kind of opened her arms for a hug and I hugged her back,” she recalled.

Bela went on to congratulate Marian and Dingdong for their upcoming nuptials, saying, “Sana maging masaya kayo on your wedding day.”

Although she has appeared in public with his non-showbiz boyfriend, Bela still wants to keep their relationship private.

“As much as possible I try not to (post

Bela

a lot of) pictures with him on social media.

Kasi gusto ko parang may something pa ako that I can keep (to) myself,” she said.

The FAMAS best supporting actress (“10,000 Hours”) is happy with the relationship, relating, “Hindi kami masyadong nag-a-away kasi malawak ’yung understanding namin, and if something’s wrong we get to the matter right away.” (MNS)

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SPORTS

Khan preps for Alexander, but eyes Pacquiao, Mayweather LOS ANGELES, November 4, 2014 (AFP) - Amir Khan sees his December 13 welterweight bout against Devon Alexander as a springboard to bigger things, but that doesn’t mean he’ll take the US southpaw lightly.

“Obviously it’s going to catapult the winner to bigger fights,” Khan said Tuesday at a Los Angeles press conference to promote the bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

“Alexander wants the big fight, I want the big fight against Mayweather, Pacquiao.

“First of all I have to get through this fight in good style. I’m not looking past this fight I have to stay hungry, stay focused.”

In a sense, Khan-Alexander has been a year in the making.

Britain’s former International Boxing Federation and World Boxing Association light welterweight world champion was slated to fight Alexander, who boasts a record of 26-2 with 14 knockouts, last December in New York.

Pacquiao too said he hoped to finally step in the ring with arch-rival Floyd Mayweather next year as he denied he was taking his upcoming opponent Chris Algieri lightly.

Pacquiao, mobbed by his supporters during a promotional trip to Hong Kong, said “I’m crossing my fingers” that the hotly anticipated Mayweather fight could happen in 2015.

“Hopefully that fight will happen by next year,” he told AFP in an interview.

“I’m crossing my fingers that that fight will happen but right now my mind is already set to focus on my next fight with Algieri. I think the time to talk about that issue is after the fight.”

The eyes of the boxing world have long been on a showdown between the unbeaten American and eight-division world champion Pacquiao (56-5-2), two of the greatest boxers of their generation.

The two regularly exchange taunts with “Money” Mayweather recently posting pictures of Pacquiao’s losses, and the Filipino last month telling his rival to stop “blabbing” and fight him.

Pacquiao, 35, said he had a “couple of years” left before retiring – seemingly ample time to secure the money-spinning fight, if the two sides’ promoters can settle their differences.

“I’m not thinking yet about retirement. I will continue my boxing career, the journey will continue in my boxing career and we’ll see what happens,” he said.

But he said his immediate focus was on his November 23 World Boxing Organization welterweight title defence in Macau against former kickboxer Algieri.

Pacquiao previously dismissed the American as only an “okay” fighter, and this month he took a break from training to make his professional basketball debut in the Philippines’ domestic league.

But he denied underestimating Algieri (20-0) and said he had been training to face a taller fighter. Algieri is about nine centimetres (3.5 inches) taller than the

Pacquiao vs. Algieri grand arrivals Venetian Las Vegas: “Day Six – Superstar Manny Pacquiao and New York’s undefeated (20-0) WBO Jr. Welterweight champion Chris Algieri made their ‘Grand Arrival’ at The Venetian Las Vegas on ‘Day Six’ of their worldwide media tour. Photo: Top Rank

1.69-metre (5ft 7in) Pacquiao.

“No, absolutely I’m not taking this fight lightly because I know his hunger and he’s young and he wants to win the fight, but I will not let that happen,” Pacquiao said.

“I’m not thinking about the knock-out because it will make me confident and careless,” he added. “If the knock-out comes it will come but my focus is to make sure that 100 percent condition and killer instinct is there, the aggressiveness is there, so that’s my focus in training.”

A-Rod admits he used steroids, report says

Alex Rodriguez

MIAMI, November 5, 2014 (AFP) – New York Yankees star Alex Rodriguez has admitted to federal investigators that he took banned performance-enhancing drugs, after publicly denying it in the past, a report said Wednesday. Rodriguez made thesconfession in a January meeting with agents from the US Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecutors who granted him immunity, the Miami Herald reported, citing a summary of the talks.

The disgraced Yankee third baseman said he took steroids provided by Biogenesis, a south Florida anti-aging clinic named by authorities as a source of illegal testosterone and human growth hormone.

The former director of that clinic, Tony Bosch, last month pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute testosterone. He faces up to 10 years in prison, but could get a lighter sentence for cooperating with an MLB investigation.

“Rodriguez injected the HGH into his stomach,” said the DEA report cited by

the newspaper.

“Rodriguez said Bosch told him the HGH would help with sleep, weight, hair growth, eyesight and muscle recovery.”

The 39-year-old Yankee slugger said he paid Bosch $12,000 a month for the drugs, the report said.

A total of 13 players, including Rodriguez, were suspended in 2013. Rodriguez initially received an unprecedented 211game ban while the other 12 were banned for 50 games.

Rodriguez’s ban was eventually cut to 162 games – a suspension that he has finished serving. He missed all of the 2014 season, but is on course to return in 2015.

The testimony from the three-time American League Most Valuable Player is being used in the cases against Bosch and Rodriguez’s cousin Yuri Sucart, who acted as a middleman, the Miami Herald said.

In 2009, Rodriguez admitted that he took steroids while playing for the Texas Rangers from 2001 to 2003.

Olympics: Beach Games to go global, says Asian chief BANGKOK, November 5, 2014 (AFP) – The inaugural world beach games could go ahead in 2017 featuring sports like beach track and field and beach American football, a senior Olympic official said on Wednesday.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Fahad Al-Sabah said the move followed the success of the Asian Beach Games, whose fourth edition starts next week in Thailand with a new-look program. The influential Association of National Olympic Committees president said the proposal would be put to the 204-member body’s general assembly in

Bangkok this week.

“The Beach Games are becoming more international, more acceptable and more economic, also because with Beach Games there’s not a lot of operational cost,” he told reporters in the Thai capital.

“In the end if the general assembly approves the Beach Games we have a lot of interesting (things) in hand but I don’t want to release them,” added the Kuwaiti.

“But at least I can assure these Games will be a success and from the beginning, secure financially and technically.”

The new event is yet to be named with

the word “Olympic” trademarked. A title for the tournament will be announced following approval by the general assembly, which is taking place on Friday and Saturday.

Phuket will be the first Asian Beach Games to include beach track and field, which features 60-metre sprints, shot put, long jump, high jump and cross country.

Jet-skiing, water polo, body building, Russian martial art sambo and the croquetstyle woodball are also among a varied program to be contested over 10 days in the Thai resort.

Pacquiao also said he was inspired by the enthusiastic support he had received in Hong Kong, home to a large community of expatriate Filipinos.

“I feel so very happy because I met a lot of Filipinos here in Hong Kong and I was surprised because I didn’t expect a lot of people in the streets,” he said.

“The cheer of the people, their support, it helps a lot. It gives more inspiration and determination to focus and fight,” added the boxer.

US women cage star Griner downplays China knife attack BEIJING, November 5, 2014 (AFP) – US women’s basketball star Brittney Griner was attacked by a knifeman after an evening training session with her Chinese team, but downplayed the incident saying she received “a little scratch”.

The six foot eight inch (2.03 meter) player said on her Instagram account that the man attacked her and three teammates as they got on the team bus on Monday evening.

“First let me say I’m OK,” the Beijing Great Wall player said on the photo-sharing service Tuesday.

“Got a little scratch and my teammates walk away unharmed,” Griner said, adding “I’m ready to get out of this city we are visiting”, without saying where the attack took place.

Griner, who weighs more than 90 kilograms and claims on her website to have a “wing span of seven feet four inches”, returned to action Tuesday evening following the attack, scoring 19 points to help Beijing to a 51-42 victory over Liaoning Hengye.

A report by Xinhua Wednesday described the attacker as “drunk” and said he was “immediately controlled by security staff”.

The two-time Women’s NBA All-Star plays for Phoenix Mercury in the United States and is openly gay.

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MOTORING

Lexus IS 250 pulls major upset in sport sedan segment Delighting enthusiast drivers and luxury connoisseurs alike, the thirdgeneration Lexus IS models continue to upset the balance of power among sport sedans for 2015, their sophomore season.

The IS 250 model conveys an aggressive yet elegant presence with the brand’s unmistakable spindle grille, L-theme LED daytime running lights and dynamic bodylines.

The all-V6 lineup incudes the choice of 204-hp powertrain, with rear-wheel drive or all-weather drive.

At the same time, the brand’s hallmark luxury and sumptuous appointments remains intact, bolstered by cutting-edge multi-media.

The Lexus IS features a host of upgrades for 2015, including new LED fog lights and numerous cabin enhancements.

Reflecting the popularity of the allweather drive (AWD) system in colder climates, a heated steering wheel is available for AWD models. The F SPORT package now includes heated/ventilated front seats and F SPORT AWD models also get the heated steering wheel.

The standard backup monitor adds dynamic gridlines for 2015, helping to make parking maneuvers easier and safe.

Keeping drivers connected, all IS models gain the in-demand Siri Eyes Free mode, with technology licensed from Apple.

Compatible with the iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 models forward, Siri responds to verbal requests to play music from iTunes, get turn-by-turn navigation, and much more. Keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel while Siri reads notifications and calendar information and lets you to add reminders, appointments and notes.

In addition, the Lexus IS models add the advanced Lexus Enform Remote (oneyear trial subscription included), which allows the owner to remotely view and control certain vehicle features using a mobile app for iOS and Android devices.

Key features include remote door lock/ unlock; remote stop/start for the engine and climate control; vehicle finder, guest driver monitor and more.

The Lexus Enform App Suite, meanwhile, upgrades to include iHeartRadio 4.0 and Slacker. A Drive Mode Select system features up to five driving modes to tailor the car’s combination of economy, comfort, performance and handling characteristics. The IS 250 features ECO, NORMAL, and SPORT modesAvailable for IS 250 models, the F SPORT package sharpens handling acuity with unique 18inch wheels and special suspension tuning, while sharpening the design with unique interior and exterior trim.

The finishing touch on the F SPORT experience is an intake sound generator that creates a more sporting engine note.

A touch-screen display audio system equips the IS models with an eight-inch screen, backup monitor, HD Radio, Bluetooth audio, automatic phone book transfer, a vehicle information display and complimentary traffic and weather data provided via HD Radio. The multimedia system also incorporates cache radio which has the ability to pause live radio. It automatically records the previous 15 minutes for convenient replay.

Luxuries abound in the 2015 Lexus IS models. A high-efficiency dual-zone climate control system uses touch-sensitive

Crown Lexus Sales Consultant Nash Jimenez poses with a new 2015 IS 250 F sport.

electrostatic temperature switches. The IS offers two multimedia systems: a standard high-resolution Lexus Display Audio (LDA) with controller or the optional Lexus navigation system.

The navigation system puts a world of capability at the driver’s fingertips via the second-generation Lexus Remote Touch Interface (RTI) multi-function control device. The RTI also allows control of the climate, audio, phone controls and more.

Lend your ears to the available Mark Levinson Premium Surround System and enjoy strikingly life-like sound reproduction, with 835 watts powering 15 speakers.

The next-generation IS models exemplify the brand’s mastery of advanced passive and active safety technology. Ten Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) airbags are standard, and the IS models employ the innovative Vehicle Dynamics Integrated Management (VDIM) system, which integrates: Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS), Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Traction Control (TRAC) and Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) active safety systems with the Electronic Power Steering (EPS) or, where fitted (for IS 350 F SPORT), Variable Gear Ratio Steering (VGRS).

The 2015 IS models can also be equipped with the available pre-emptive Pre-Collision System (PCS), which incorporates Adaptive Cruise Control.

The model range offers several advanced active safety features, including an Automatic High Beam (AHB) headlamp system, a Lane Departure Alert (LDA) system, a Blind Spot Monitor (BSM) with Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA) system and a standard Auto Location Tire Pressure Warning System (AL-TPWS).

What’s New for 2015 LED fog lamps Siri Eyes Free technology from Apple; compatible with iPhone 4S and iPhone 5 models Heated/ventilated front seats added to F SPORT (F SPORT AWD also gets heated steering wheel) Revised interior trim, including piano black on window switches and instrument panel New Stratus Gray interior replaces

Light Gray Backup monitor adds dynamic grid lines to aid parking maneuvers Available Lexus Enform Remote For the real thing and real deal, better call our kababayan and veteran car sales expert Nash Jimenez, who is one of the best known car specialists in Southern

California for his dedicated and decades of customer service. You can visit Nash or you may also want to call General Manager Doug Pearson anytime at Crown Lexus located at 1125 S Kettering Dr, Ontario, CA 91761. Call them now toll free at 1-800434-5793 so you can be in a brand-new Lexus today!

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2015 Nissan Altima offers segment-defining style, performance, innovation and value Enhancements for 2015 include standard NissanConnect with Navigation with Mobile Apps and Blind Spot Warning for 3.5 SL model As the cornerstone of Nissan’s dynamic product lineup, Nissan Altima embodies the philosophy of “Innovation that excites” with Manuel Lava thoughtful technology solu- Mission Hills tions that make life easier and a premium experience that is unique in its segment.

Altima is not only Nissan’s best-selling vehicle but also one of the top-selling cars in the United States – thanks to its distinctive exterior and interior design, rewarding driving experience and innovative, driverfocused technology.

Altima also offers efficient 38 milesper-gallon fuel economy (2.5-liter engine) and available next-generation Safety Shield Technologies. Altima is again available in a range of seven high-value available models that meet a range of customer needs and budgets.

For the 2015 model year, Altima 3.5 SL adds NissanConnectS with Navigation and Mobile Apps, Blind Spot Warning (BSW), Moving Object Detection (MOD) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW) as standard equipment.

A Premium Presence Completely redesigned inside and out just two years ago, its premium style and “class above” appeal continues in 2015 with its wide, aggressive stance and dramatic front end styling. Its wide front and rear track and deeply sculpted fenders – which utilize deep-draw stamping techniques that allow for complex surfacing – combine with a crisp grille design, seamless bumper and projector-type headlights to create a bold, sophisticated appearance.

Altima headlights feature a two-stage automatic-on function. In lower light situations during the day, the headlights illuminate automatically – but the gauges remain in daylight mode. In late evening/ night conditions, the headlights remain illuminated and the gauges revert to nighttime lighting. Fog lights are standard on SV and SL trim levels.

The 2015 Altima is available in a palette of eight rich exterior colors: Java Metallic, Brilliant Silver, Saharan Stone, Gun Metallic, Super Black, Cayenne Red, Pearl White and Storm Blue The interior defies mid-size sedan convention, rivaling upscale luxury sedans in ambience and sophistication. Like the exterior, there is a premium look and feel – from the driver’s side cockpit to the front passenger and rear seating areas – with extensive use of upscale, soft touch materials and craftsman-like attention to detail.

The 2015 Altima also offers premium quietness, the result of efforts to reduce cabin noise coming from the powertrain, climate system and the body versus the previous generation Altima design. Noise absorption materials with a 30 percent increase in absorption capability (versus previous Altima) are used throughout the cabin, including areas such as the roof trim, instrument panel and floor mats.

Available audio systems include an AM/ FM/CD design with RDS, MP3, aux-in and six speakers, along with an available Bose Premium Audio System with nine speakers (including woofers), designed in conjunction with Bose engineers during vehicle development to deliver rich sound and acoustics.

SiriusXM® Satellite Radio (SiriusXM subscription required, sold separately) is standard on Altima 2.5 SV, 2.5 SL, 3.5 SL and optional on 2.5 S. With the available Hands-Free Text Messaging Assistant (part of NissanConnectS), drivers can manage incoming text

messages via voice control without taking their hands from the wheel or eyes off the road. Drivers are alerted to an incoming text and, after initiating the system, can hear the text read out loud and respond via voice recognition, or via the steering wheel switches using pre-set answers such as “driving, can’t text,” “on my of Nissan of way,” “running late,” “okay” or a custom message.

The Advanced Drive-Assist™ Display comes standard on every model and is customizable, easy-to-use and integrates key information right in front of the driver. Located in the center of the instrument display between the tachometer and speedometer, it features a 4.0-inch color display, more than 400 percent larger than the previous generation Altima’s vehicle information display and utilizing more natural 3D-effect graphics.

The system is customizable and adjustable using the steering wheel controls, so drivers can view the information that is most important to them, including: Audio system display Instant MPG Trip computer

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) with individual tire pressure readouts (individual readouts not available on 2.5 grade) Navigation system (if equipped), with destination turn-by-turn information and compass, and the ability to match the on-screen vehicle image with the actual car color On vehicles equipped with NissanConnectSM with Navigation, the display shows navigation destination turn-by-turn information

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.

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Toyota is global hybrid leader with sales of 7 million Recent million-unit milestone achieved in record time TORRANCE, Calif. (Oct. 13, 2014) – Toyota Motor Corporation announced today global hybrid sales surpassed the 7 million unit mark in September. Toyota achieved this latest million-unit hybrid milestone at the record pace of nine months.

“Hitting the 7 million mark represents our customers’ recognition of the benefits of Toyota and Lexus hybrid vehicles,” said Bob Carter, Toyota senior vice president of automotive operations. “The appeal of excellent fuel economy, driving dynamics and the quality of our vehicles combined with our dealers’ dedication to customer service makes Toyota the undeniable leader in hybrid technology.”

Including hybrid vehicles launched this year, Toyota will introduce a total of 15 new hybrids globally through 2015. Hybrids launched this year comprise the Voxy

Hybrid and Noah Hybrid in Japan only (January), and the Lexus NX 300h (July).

This month Toyota will introduce the Lexus RC 300h. Toyota plans to continue expanding its hybrid lineup and increase the number of countries and regions where it sells hybrid vehicles.

Today Toyota sells 27 different hybrid passenger car models and one plug-in hybrid model in more than 90 countries and regions. In the U.S., Toyota and Lexus offer 12 hybrid models and one plug-in model, which account for 70 percent of industry hybrid sales.

In 2000, Toyota introduced its Prius hybrid to the U.S., a marquee vehicle that established mainstream adoption of hybrid technology. Today, Toyota and Lexus hybrid sales in the U.S. are well over 2 million, and the Prius is on its way to becoming the no. 1 selling vehicle in California for the third year in a row.

By achieving global mass-market appeal, Toyota hybrids have created a

significant positive Toyota of Glendale’s Filipino Sales team. Toyota impact in gasoline of Glendale is located at 1260 S. Brand Blvd. consumed and emis- Glendale CA 91204. You can reach them toll free at 1- 866-522-5154. sions generated by driving. To date Toyota hybrid vehicles have resulted in approximately 49 million fewer tons* of CO2 emissions and saved 4.75B gallons of gasoline than would have been emitted or used by gasolineIf you want to check out the why Toyota powered vehicles of similar size and driv- is the global hybrid leader or buy a Toyota ing performance. vehicle now, come and visit our friends and Although Toyota provides consum- kababayans at Toyota of Glendale. Toyota ers a portfolio of options, including pure of Glendale has Richard Cruz and Kay electrics and a fuel cell that will go in sale Cajulis, all of whom can help you get into in summer 2015, hybrids will remain its a new Prius or any other Toyota vehicle of core technology. Toyota therefore plans to your choice. continue working to enhance performance, Toyota of Glendale is located at 1260 S. reduce costs and expand its product lineup Brand Blvd. Glendale CA 91204. You can to create vehicles popular with consumers. reach them toll free at 1- 866-522-5154.

Tesla Model S scores 5 out of 5 in Euro NCAP crash tests (Relaxnews) – The star of the Tesla stand at the recent Paris Motor Show, the Model S aced the Euro NCAP crash tests to earn a five-star safety rating.

The electric sedan fared particularly well in terms of adult occupant safety (82%) and child occupant safety (77%), while also achieving high scores for its safety assistance technologies (71%) and pedestrian safety (66%).

Among its safety features are front and side airbags, built-in child safety systems, electronic stability control, speed limit warnings and lane departure warnings.

The Tesla Model S is a high-end all-electric car with up to 416hp, enabling 0 to 100km/h acceleration in just 4.4 seconds, all without CO2 emissions.

Few cars have achieved the maximum fivestar rating in the Euro NCAP tests. The Model S joins an elite club that includes the BMW 2 Series Active Tourer, the Skoda Fabia and the Nissan Pulsar. On the other hand, the Renault Mégane Hatch received only four stars, while the Suzuki Celerio earned just three.

Watch the crash test of the Tesla Model S: youtu.be/7uhhYKJWEBw

Tesla Model S earned a particularly high rating for adult occupant safety in the Euro NCAP crash tests. ©Euro NCAP

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2015 Honda Fit takes SEMA Show by storm Fit wins SEMA Award as ‘Hottest Sport Compact’ The all-new 2015 Honda Fit (automobiles.honda.com/fit/) arrived at the 2014 SEMA Show in strength, with nine personalized versions on display in the Honda booth, quickly winning the coveted SEMA Award as the “Hottest Sport Compact” at a ceremony formally opening the show.

The Honda booth at the SEMA Show is highlighted by the Fit customized by Tjin Edition, voted as the Fan Favorite in the 2015 Fit Performance Project, which enabled fans to track the build processes of several teams through an interactive Honda Tumblr site.

“The 2015 Fit is a worthy addition to Honda’s strong heritage of developing tuned sport compact vehicles, and it wears the mantle of “Hottest Sport Compact” well,” said Jeff Conrad, SVP & General Manager of Honda Division, American Honda Motor Co, Inc. “Fun to drive, versatile and a great value, the new Fit does so many things right, and it’s great to see it becoming a popular platform for owner personalization.”

Over the past few months, Honda and its fans followed the progress of six build teams that customized the all-new 2015 Fit through an ambitious project vehicle program and interactive Tumblr experience dubbed the 2015 Fit Performance Project(#ProjectFit). The six build teams, Tjin Edition, voted Fan Favorite; Bisimoto Engineering; Kontrabrands; MAD Industries; Spoon Sports USA; and the awardwinning Kenny Vinces, each personalized the Fit virtually in public, something rarely seen in a very competitive industry.

Photos, video and animated GIFs of the transformations in progress were posted throughout the campaign at hondaloves. tumblr.com where fans ultimately voted for

their favorite build.

Three additional personalized 2015 Honda Fit vehicles are on dis- Carson Honda Filipino sales team (from left) Ricky Agagas, Rohmer Manalese, Terzo “T” Pallen and Christian Reyes. play in the long supported grassroots through pinnacle the NC700X, CBR300R, and the wildly automaker’s booth including a Fit B-spec race car racing, and the display highlights the broad popular Grom.

After viewing all of the impressive prepped for competition by Honda Per- spectrum of available engines ranging formance Development (HPD), Honda’s from go-cart motors to IndyCar and ALMS vehicle displays at the 2014 SEMA Show, North American racing company; a Fit engines. Please refer to the separate HPD attendees with media credentials are also loaded with available dealer-installed Hon- SEMA Show press release for full details invited to celebrate at the second annual da Genuine Accessories; and an additional on the display or visit hpd.honda.com/ “Honda Soiree” on Nov. 4 from 10 p.m.

Fit personalized by prominent tuner, Bisi- racing-line/racing-line-store for consumer to 2 a.m. at the Tao Nightclub inside the Venetian hotel complex. Members of the moto, on behalf of Norm Reeves Honda in information.

Bringing a “fun to ride” element to the media are invited to visit the Honda booth response to fan feedback prompted through Honda display, a range of Honda Pow- in the Central Hall at the SEMA Show on the 2015 Fit Performance Project.

HPD is back at the SEMA Show dis- ersports products help highlight Honda’s Nov. 4, where a limited number of media playing its extensive line of racing engines broad range of enthusiast oriented prod- entry wristbands will be available.

Although a Honda is a Honda wherever which are available for purchase for sanc- ucts beyond automobiles. On display at tioned racers in North America. HPD has the show: the Pioneer 500 side by side, you see one, Filipinos flock to Carson Honda because of the friendly Filipino staff at the dealership and of course because of the service our kababayans provide. One of them, Rohmer Manalese, has even earned the “Best in Customer Satisfaction,” an honor he keeps consistently, along with the three other Filipino sales staff in the persons of Ricky Agagas, Terzo Pallen and Christian Reyes, all of whom are veterans in the car sales industry.

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

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

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NEW YORK, November 3, 2014 (AFP) – Automakers Monday reported mostly higher US sales in October behind rising consumer confidence and lower gasoline prices.

But Ford’s sales fell and General Motors’ missed expectations as smaller rival Chrysler continued to rack up strong gains.

GM, which unveiled a fleet of new pickup and crossover offerings this fall, said sales edged up 0.2 percent to 226,819 vehicles. The largest US automaker cited strong gains in its large sport utility vehicles such as the Chevrolet Tahoe and Suburban.

GM’s results came in slightly below the Edmunds.com forecast for a 2.1 percent gain.

“The US economy has steadily improved all year and now we are poised for a stronger expansion backed by an improved job market, higher consumer confidence and lower fuel prices,” said Kurt McNeil, US vice president of sales operations at GM. For the second month in a row, Ford Motor Co.reported a drop in sales, this time by two percent to 188,654. Ford said the sales decline was expected and was linked to preparations to launch the 2015 aluminum F-150 pickup truck.

Chrysler however posted a 21.7 percent increase in sales to 170,480 units, driven by its popular Jeep vehicles and Ram trucks, which have benefited from lower gasoline prices.

Toyota also cited lower gas prices as a factor behind strong SUV sales. The Japanese automaker also reported a successful launch of its new 2015 model of the Toyota Camry, with sales of the sedan gaining 14 percent.

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PRAYERS PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short dialogue, want to thank You for everything and con¿rm once more that I never want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After the 3rd day the wish will be granted, no matter how dif¿cult it may be. Promise to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted.

Grateful Thanks - MOH

PRAYERS POWERFUL TRIDUUM to the BLESSED VIRGIN MARY TO BE SAID 3 X FOR 3 CONSECUTIVE DAYS O most beautiful Àower of Mt. Carmel. Faithful vine and Splendor of heaven. Blessed Mother of the son of God. Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity O Star of the Sea, help me. Show me here you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God. Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you, from the bottom of my heart to secure me in my necessity (YOUR REQUEST). There are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin Pray for us who have recourse to thee Holy Mary, I place this cause in your hands SAY 9 HAIL MARY'S AFTER EACH PARAYER You must publish this prayer and your wish will be granted. -KAI

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Mitsubishi posts eighth consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases Best-ever October sales for Outlander Sport Nov. 3 – Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc. (MMNA) posted its eighth consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases thank to a strong sales month in October with vehicle sales through the month totaling 6,199 units, an exceptional 30.5 percent increase over the sales total from October 2013.

The Outlander Sport 5-passenger compact crossover – the brand’s best-selling vehicle – posted outstanding sales of 2,468 units for the month. This was the best-ever October sales month for the popular and versatile Outlander Sport and the thirteenth consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases. Moreover, Outlander Sport sales are up 22.8 percent from last October and are up 24.8 percent year-to-date.

October marked the twelfth consecutive month of Mirage sales of more than 1,000 units, with total sales for the month

of 1,374 units.

M i t s u b i s h i ’s 5-door hatchback model is the most fuelefficient gasoline-powered non-hybrid vehicle in America with an EPA fuel mileage rating of up to 37 mpg city / 44 Cerritos Mitsubishi mpg highway GSM Mark Mercado / 40 mpg combined.

Mitsubishi’s vehicle sales for October were further boosted by robust sales of the sporty and affordably-priced Lancer sports sedan (up 17.5 percent from last October), as well as the recently redesigned 7-passenger Outlander crossover (sales up 14.2 percent year-to-date) and the ultra-highperformance Lancer Evolution luxury

AeroMobil 3.0 flying car unveiled (Relaxnews) – The AeroMobil 3.0 flying car has been unveiled, and it takes off quicker than ever.

Revealed at the Pioneers Festival in Vienna, the latest prototype of the vehicle features significant improvements and upgrades since its last version, the AeroMobil 2.5.

The machine, which its designers say is “very close to the finished product”, is now being tested in real flight conditions as part of a regular flight-testing program.

Designed and manufactured in only 10 months, the car is around the same size as a limousine or a large luxury sedan and can be parked in regular parking slots in cities. It runs on standard gasoline and can be fuelled at regular gas stations.

“I believe that AeroMobil will inspire new ways of thinking about personal travel,” says Co-Founder and CEO Juraj Vaculik. “It may really enable new ways of travel, advancing it to a new level. We are set to reinvent the flying car without constraints and deliver excitement through unique technical solution and design.”

AeroMobil 3.0

sports sedan (up 10.5 percent year-to-date).

“The Outlander Sport has been leading the way for the brand in 2014 and Outlander has steadily increased compared to last year,” said MMNA Executive Vice President, Don Swearingen. “But our sedans are also doing well with consistently strong Mirage sales and Lancer with a strong showing in October.”

Highlights of October sales include: Mitsubishi Motors total vehicle sales are up 30.2 percent year-to-date 12 consecutive months of Mirage sales of more than 1,000 units Outlander sales are up 14.2 percent year-to-date Lancer sales up 17.5 percent from last October Lancer Evolution sales are up 10.5 percent year-to-date For those who are loyal or have been wanting to own a Mitsubishi, you can now avail of your favorite Mitsubishi brand by visiting Cerritos Mitsubishi where our

kababayans will help you choose the right car for you, whether it’s the Mitsubishi Outlander, Lancer or other Mitsubishi vehicle.

Come and visit our kababayan Mark and his Fil-Am crew at the Cerritos Mitsubishi, where kababayans are always treated as special customers. Even their marketing thrust is anchored on that magical Tagalog word: Kababayan. They also have a Kabayan Price. “We have the best lease payment program, we offer huge discounts on many of our models,” said Mark. “And for new immigrants, first time buyers, and those without credit or are now having a bad credit just like everybody else, approval is not a big deal. We have a way of doing it.”

Along with Mark, Eugene C., Alfie A. and Arvin backstop the sales operation for the Filipino market. Call now toll free at 1-888-887-6090 to get the same Number 1 customer service from our very own kababayans.

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Weekend, Sat. - Fri., November 8 - 14, 2014

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2015 Toyota RAV4 marks two decades as a mall SUV pioneer September 26, 2014 – The Toyota RAV4 got the whole compact crossover segment started 20 years ago as a new kind of vehicle that people didn’t even know they wanted. But a lot of people wanted it enough to make the segment one of the largest today, with the current generation RAV4 one of its strongest sellers.

Now in its third season, the currentgeneration, RAV4 exemplifies the qualities that keep it a perennial hit. Customers love its sharp-edged styling and roomy, versatile five-seat cabin. The interior has a premium look and feel with soft-touch accents and driver-centric controls.

Sure to get attention in any weather, RAV4 drives into 2015 with a new Blizzard Pearl Premium Package for the RAV4 Limited grade. This special package dresses the already stylish RAV4 in Blizzard Pearl paint and new 18-inch machine-finished wheels with black painted pockets.

At the opposite end of the thermometer, new Hot Lava paint joins the lineup. The one-touch power liftgate with driver-selectable memory height settings, standard on the Limited, is now an option for the XLE grade.

The XLE gets new 17-inch Superchrome alloy wheels for 2015.

The RAV4 is motivated by a responsive, fuel-efficient 4-cylinder engine mated to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission.

Customers can choose between front wheel drive or the advanced Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, the same system used in the new Highlander.

Shopping for the RAV4 is easier than ever, with three trim levels to choose from, including LE, XLE and Limited.

Cavernous Cabin Though taking up a smallish parking

space outside, the RAV4 is cavernous inside, with ample room for five adults and 38.4 cu. ft. of cargo capacity behind the rear seats. With the 60/40 split rear seats folded, that space expands to 73.4 cu. ft. Rear seat legroom is a competitive 37.2 inches.

The front seats feature a slim seat back design to enhance rear-passenger knee room. The rear seatbacks also recline several degrees for added passenger comfort. Rear privacy glass is standard on all RAV4 models. Retractable rear seat head restraints aid rear visibility.

Sitting at the wheel, the driver faces a sporty, asymmetrical, driver-centric dash panel. Controls fall within easy reach, and, thanks to enticing clear blue illumination for the dash and gauge panel, they’re easy to see in ambient light conditions.

Economical Performance and Sport Mode, Too Practicality meets fun with the RAV4’s 2.5-liter direct-injection four-cylinder engine. Coupled to a standard 6-speed automatic transmission, the engine smoothly delivers 176 horsepower at 6,000 rpm and 172 lb.-ft. of torque at 4,100 rpm. With front-wheel drive, the RAV4 has EPAestimated fuel economy ratings of 24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway. With Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, the EPA estimates are 22/29 mpg, on regular-grade

gasoline.

Feeling sporty? The RAV4 can play along. Choose Sport mode, and the RAV4 sharpens shift timing, throttle response, and steering feel. Downshifting will “blip” the throttle, as the driver in a stick-shift vehicle might do to maintain driving smoothness. And, on RAV4 models with Dynamic Torque Control All-Wheel Drive, Sport mode also alters torque distribution to enhance agility by reducing understeer.

Feeling frugal? Select Eco mode and the RAV4 optimizes powertrain operation to maximize fuel economy. The RAV4’s smooth ride, handling agility and cabin quietness owes much to a body structure

that makes extensive use of high-strength steel to provide a robust and stiff yet light platform. The MacPherson strut front suspension and a double-wishbone rear suspension let the RAV4 absorb bumps, ruts and railroad crossings with composure.

A strut tower bar links the tops of the front strut towers to the main bulkhead, helping to increase torsional rigidity.

So, what are you waiting for? The new 2015 Toyota models are already available at Hooman Toyota. And just so you know,, you don’t need a brand-new car to purchase to enjoy the VIP privileges at Hooman Toyota where you can get free oil change service for as long as you own your Toyota vehicle among all other perks.

If you want to be one of the next new RAV4 owners, get in touch with our kababayans at Tustin Toyota, the experts in the car industry, in the person of Sales Manager Victor Malaiba and Sales & Leasing Executives Jojo Santillana and Felix Fernando. Tustin Toyota is located at 36 Auto Center Drive, Tustin, CA 92782. Call them toll free at (866) 999-9457.

Now in its third season, the current-generation, RAV4 exemplifies the qualities that keep it a perennial hit.

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Visit www.Balita.com

Weekend, Sat. - Fri., November 8 - 14, 2014

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Weekend, Sat. - Fri., November 8 - 14, 2014

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Visit www.Balita.com

Weekend, Sat. - Fri., November 8 - 14, 2014

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