Daniel Padilla Cover. November 16-30, 2012 Issue

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NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

By mahar mangahas

HE fact that the great majority are Catholics, whereas only a minority are Muslims, is to me only a superficial reason to call the Philippines a “Catholic” country. The fact that there are Catholic churches almost everywhere and mosques in only a few areas is also only external evidence.

If we Filipinos are “Catholic,” then shouldn’t we be similar to other Catholic peoples, particularly Spaniards, who introduced Christianity here in the first place?

In fact, however, Filipino Catholics are quite different from Spaniards with respect to basic attitudes related to religion. In many ways, Filipino Catholics are actually much more similar to Filipino Muslims. I base this on the “2008 Survey on Religion of the International Social Survey Program (ISSP).”

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A ‘CATHOLIC’ COUNTRY? To the survey statement, “Life is meaningful only because God exists,” 75 percent of Filipinos agree -- the percentage is 74 among Catholics and 90 among Muslims.

But only 21 percent of Spaniards agree. Among Americans, the percentage is 46— again, midway between Filipinos and Spaniards.

Belief in God

The national proportion of Filipinos firmly believing in God -- as in “I know God really exists and I have no doubts about it”-- is 84 percent. It is 83 percent among those declaring themselves Catholic, and 82 percent among those declaring themselves Muslim.

Among Spaniards, however, firm believers in God are only a minority 39 percent; this statistic amazed me when I first saw it. Among Americans, incidentally, they are a majority 61 percent, which is halfway between Filipinos and Spaniards.

Thus, Filipinos, Catholics and In many ways, Filipino Catholics are actually much more similar to Filipino Muslims than the Spaniards, who introduced Christianity in the Philippines.

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Muslims alike, have much firmer belief in God than Spaniards. Ten percent of Spaniards are outright atheists, as in “I don’t believe in God.” Another 10 percent are agnostics, as in “I don’t know whether there is a God and I don’t believe there is any way to find out.”

In the Philippines, however, atheists and agnostics put together are only 2.2 percent of declared Catholics and only 1.5 percent of declared Muslims. In the United States, 3 percent are atheists and 5 percent are agnostics.

Another 10 percent of Filipinos, another 20 percent of Spaniards, and another 17 percent of Americans are what I would call “almostbelievers,” since they choose to say, “While I have doubts, I feel that I do believe in God.” The balances from 100 percent are in the categories “I don’t believe in a personal God, but I do believe in a higher power of some kind” or else “I find myself believing in God some of the time, but not at others.”

In the ISSP 2008 survey samples -- designed to be statistically representative of the national population in each country -- Filipinos are Roman Catholic 81 percent, other Christian 6 percent, and 5 percent Muslim, Spaniards are Roman Catholic 75 percent, no religion 22 percent, and 1.3 percent Muslim, and Americans are Protestant 51 percent, Roman Catholic 24 percent, other Christian 4 percent, and Jewish 2 percent.

Basis for sainthood The Philippines’ two saints, as canonized by Rome, are a paltry

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The national proportion of Filipinos firmly believing in God is 84 percent . Among Spaniards, firm believers in God are only a minority 39 percent. number compared to the saints of do.

Furthermore, only 41 percent Spain. Hundreds, if not thousands, of Spanish Christians were mar- of Spaniards believe in religious tyred in the centuries of Moorish miracles. But 67 percent of Filipino dominion over southern Spain, Catholics and 61 percent of Filiduring which religious tolerance pino Muslims do.

Although the ISSP 2008 survey was only intermittent.

Saints are special individuals rec- did not have any question specifiognized, by masses of people and/or cally about saints, the above findby religious authorities, as being sure- ings suggest to me that the majorly in heaven. The Vatican requires ity of Spaniards nowadays might documentation of some miracles as be imagining the Spanish saints as merely legendary individuals. basis for accepting nominees.

Nowadays, only 48 percent of Spaniards even believe in life after The meaningfulness of God To the survey statement, “Life death. Compare that to 81 percent of Filipino Catholics and 80 per- is meaningful only because God exists,” 75 percent of Filipinos agree cent of Filipino Muslims.

Nowadays, only 45 percent of -- the percentSpaniards believe in heaven. Com- age is 74 among pare that to 93 percent of Filipino Catholics and among Catholics and 98 percent of Fili- 90 Muslims. But pino Muslims.

Furthermore, nowadays only 32 only 21 percent Spaniards percent of Spaniards believe in hell. of But 80 percent of Filipino Catholics agree. Among and 94 percent of Filipino Muslims Americans, the

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

To the survey statement, “Practicing religion is helpful to inner peace and happiness,” 92 percent of Filipinos agree -- the percentage is 92 among Catholics and 98 among Muslims. percentage is 46—again, midway between Filipinos and Spaniards.

To the survey statement, “Practicing religion is helpful to inner peace and happiness,” 92 percent of Filipinos agree -- the percentage is 92 among Catholics and 98 among Muslims. But only 75 percent of Spaniards agree. Among Americans, the percentage is 87 -- closer to Filipinos than to Spaniards.

When the ISSP survey asked if “truth” can be found in only one religion, in many religions, or in no religion, “only one” was the answer of 41 percent of Filipinos (Catholics 40, Muslims 76), while “many”

was chosen by 35 percent of Filipinos (Catholics 36, Muslims 18).

On the other hand, the dominant answer was “many” among both Spaniards (55 percent) and Americans (83 percent). “Only one” was the answer of only 23 percent of Spaniards and only 12 percent of Americans.

My conclusions: (a) Filipino Catholics and Filipino Muslims are similar because they are all Filipinos; (b) Protestant America is more Christian than Catholic Spain; (c) Spain can hardly be called “Catholic” anymore. (Philippine Daily Inquirer) n

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NEW FILIPINO CARDINAL TELLS CHURCH:

BE HUMBLE

E will In an interview in 2002, Tagle said the soon become a prince of Church should reach out to those “who the Catholic feel alienated.” “I am loyal to the Church Church, but Manila Arch- but I am not also blind,” he said. “We bishop Luis must also indulge in self-criticism to Antonio Tagle, bring us back to the poor.” a low-key and once-reluctant a recent key gathering of bishbishop, keeps his feet on the ops worldwide, called a synod.

“A young girl asked: ‘Are we, the ground.

And he wants a humbler Church.

“You may be saying the right things, but people will not listen to you if the manner by which you communicate reminds them of a triumphalistic, know-it-all type of institution,” Tagle said in a Vatican Radio interview on Oct. 24, hours after Pope Benedict XVI named him a cardinal along with five others. The new cardinals will be elevated at a consistory in Vatican on Nov. 24.

Tagle said his thoughts ring true especially in Asia, with people who operate more on “feeling and sensing.”

“I realized that the sufferings of people, and the difficult questions that they ask, are really invitations for us to, first, be in solidarity with them, not to pretend that we have all the solutions and all the answers,” the newly appointed cardinal said.

“They see a concrete face of God,” he added, “in a Church that can just sometimes be silent with them, be as confused as they are, also telling them, ‘You know, we share the same situation of confusion and searching.’”

Tagle said a similar thing at

youth, lost or has the Church lost us?’” he remarked. He then stressed the need for humility, among other things, to show God to the “seemingly indifferent and aimless societies of our time.”

Described as one of Asia’s top

The soon-to-be Cardinal Tagle has huge potential to shape the Catholic Church globally.

The Filipino cardinal-designate attracted attention among his peers for his emphasis on a humbler, simpler church with a greater capacity for silence.

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theologians, Tagle echoes this message in eschewing clericalism.

“Like those who opposed Jesus in the name of authentic religion, we could be blind to God and neighbors because of self-righteousness, spiritual pride and rigidity of mind,” he told an audience of mostly bishops and priests, in a much applauded speech at a Quebec religious congress in 2008.

He said: “Ecclesiastical customs and persons, when naively and narrowly defied and glorified, might become hindrances to true worship and compassion.”

In an interview with a local newsmagazine in 2002, Tagle said the Church should reach out to

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Tagle’s emphasis on humility is crucial especially for the Catholic Church in the Philippines. those “who feel alienated.” “I am loyal to the Church but I am not also blind,” he said. “We must also indulge in self-criticism to bring us back to the poor.”

Timely appointment Tagle’s emphasis on humility is crucial, especially for the Catholic

Church in the Philippines.

While a mostly Catholic country, the Philippines has seen issues such as the Reproductive Health (RH) bill dividing Catholic leaders and their followers, in an exchange of heated and sometimes hurtful words. Tagle is seen as a voice of moderation.

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The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines’ (CBCP) top doctrinal guardian, Tagle himself opposes the RH bill. But he has, unlike others, shunned name-calling, prompting even RH bill advocate Risa Hontiveros-Baraquel to hail his initial appointment as Manila archbishop.

The soon-to-be Cardinal Tagle also has huge potential to shape the Catholic Church globally. He will, after all, be an adviser to the Pope – the role of a cardinal, along with electing a new pope in case the current one resigns or dies. He is also reportedly close to Pope Bene-

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dict XVI, with the latter having mentored him when he was finishing his theology doctorate.

Based on previous statements, his involvement is expected in key Catholic issues like that of erring priests, especially those accused of sexual abuse. “The best way to care for the offender is to make him face up to the misconduct,” Tagle said in February at an unprecedented symposium in Rome.

Future pope?

His influence may also be gleaned from the attention he has received. Touted as a papal candidate as early as last year, Tagle has already been much talked-about in global Catholic circles.

This batch of new cardinals will likely have Tagle as its “star,” said prominent Catholic writer Rocco Palmo. Palmo went as far as saying this batch will “be decidely Chitocentric,” referring to the new Fili-

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

pino cardinal’s nickname, “Chito.”

John Allen, a veteran Vatican journalist and analyst, said Tagle is one of two new cardinals “who could draw consideration as possible successors to Benedict XVI if the mood at the time of the next conclave is to look for leadership to the booming church in the global south.”

“Tagle has turned heads during the current Synod of Bishops on new evangelization for his emphasis on a humbler, simpler church with a greater capacity for silence,” Allen explained.

He has indeed gone a long way – from a reluctant bishop of Imus, Cavite, who was known to take public transport in deference to the poor, to a new cardinal and potential pope who challenges the Church to be humble.

Tagle’s wish for himself sounded characteristically simple: to bring “a lot of optimism and hope.” (Rappler.com) n

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

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IS THE PHILIPPINES THE NEXT TIGER ECONOMY?

S emerging economic giants of Brazil, Russia, China, and India whimper, global investors are increasingly enthralled by the bang of more compact, democratic and dynamic economies. A combination of robust domestic spending, macroeconomic buoyancy, and labor-market flexibility has more than compensated for their smaller size. The new darlings of international finance include countries such as Turkey, Indonesia, and the Philippines.

While the two Muslim nations are well on their way to join the elite group of trilliondollar economies, the Philippines is relishing a strong economic momentum.

Amid global fears of a double-dip recession, the Philippines represents a Amid global fears of a doubledip recession, the Philippines represents a countercyclical story of growth and resilience. It is expected to expand by 5.5-6 percent this year. The cur-

countercyclical story of growth and resilience.

A third of Metro Manila is filled with ‘shanty towns,’ but it also boasts one of the world’s biggest shopping malls.

The secret to Manila’s economic upswing lies in improved governance and political stability.

After a decade of democratic reversals, anemic economic performance, and widespread public dissatisfaction, the new Aquino administration is laying down the foundation of perhaps the next tiger economy in Asia.

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rency has been relatively strong, while the stock market has been among the most bullish in Asia.

The first quarter was most encouraging: the economy grew above 6 percent, while exports expanded by 7.7 percent. The country is also enjoying an ‘era of moderation:’ interest rates are at around 4 percent, inflation is barely above 3 percent, and the debt-to-GDP ratio is at a historic low -- allowing considerable space for borrowing and monetary easing.

This sound economic environment explains why even “Dr. Doom” Nouriel Roubini has identified the Philippines as among the most resilient of key Asian economies in terms of responding to a major global shock. According to the Roubini Global Economics report, the country has considerable monetary-fiscal wiggle room to respond to growing volatility in the center-economies (i.e., euro zone, U.S., Japan, and China) and geopolitical uncertainties in the Persian Gulf.

As a result, all major credit agencies have upgraded Philippines ratings, currently just a notch below the ‘investment grade’ level.

So why is East Asia’s ‘sick man’ suddenly booming? Well, similar to its peers in Ankara and Jakarta,

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the secret to Manila’ economic upswing lies in improved governance and political stability. After a decade of democratic reversals, anemic economic performance, and widespread public dissatisfaction, the new Aquino administration is laying down the foundation of perhaps the next tiger economy in Asia.

Since taking office in 2010, President Aquino -- intent on rooting out corruption -- has successfully managed to impeach leading magistrates accused of corruption and administrative misconduct, paving the way for the prosecution of the former President Gloria Arroyo. To enhance transparency, he has aggressively lobbied for the passage of a Freedom of Information (FOI) bill in the legislature. Meanwhile, he astutely navigated through the country’s intricate state-church relations by helping his legislative allies to pass the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) bill, giving the state potential control over the country’s explosive population growth.

In terms of conflict-resolution, the President has successfully concluded a ‘framework agreement’ with the country’s main rebel group, the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF). This could be the beginning of a long but fulfilling process of reconciliation, reconstruction, and sustained development in the country’s southern island of Mindanao.

Recognizing the depth of his country’s poverty and inequality, Aquino has engaged in a massive ‘conditional cash transfer’ program, targeting the most vulnerable sectors. There are also some signs of economic trickle-down: the second-quarter of 2012 has reported notable declines in adult unemployment (from 28.6 to 34.4 percent) and hunger (from 23.8 to 18.4 percent) compared to the first quarter, according to the Social Weather Station (SWS).

The government has also heavily relied on Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Projects to boost Philippines’ flailing infrastructure and enhance investment-attractiveness. In less than 16 months it finalized a major PPP project.

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Recognizing the depth of poverty and inequality, President Aquino has engaged in a massive ‘conditional cash transfer’ program, targeting the most vulnerable sectors.

“We are now reaping economic benefits of good governance.”-President Aquino

The framework agreement between the government and the Moro Islamic Liberation Front could be the beginning of a process of reconciliation, reconstruction, and sustained development in Mindanao.

It is these efforts that partly ex- Philippines is a land of extremes plain the Philippines’ impressive and mind-boggling contradictions. performance in this year’s econom- A third of the country’s capital, ic competitiveness survey, with the Metro Manila, is filled with ‘shanty country jumping by 10 notches in towns,’ but it also boasts one of global rankings compared to last the world’s bigyear. No wonder, an inspired Aqui- gest shopping no recently declared, “We are now malls, namely reaping economic benefits of good Mall of Asia governance.” and SM North However, the true test of the Edsa, while bennew administration’s mettle lies in efitting from an achieving ‘inclusive and sustain- impressive real able’ growth. By any measure, the estate boom,

showcasing lush structures such as the Resorts World casino complex, a $4 billion Entertainment City complex, and a Versace-designed residential Tower (first of its kind in Asia). Global celebrities such as Paris Hilton and Donald Trump have lent their name to major residential projects in the country, namely the Azuri Urban resorts residences (showcasing a jaw-dropping man-made beach) and the $150 million Trump Tower.

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

It takes a cocktail of unyielding leadership and sustained implementation of right policies to address the country’s structural imbalances.

According to a recent authoritative study by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), entitled “Taking the Right Road to Inclusive Growth,” the country’s economic growth has not only failed to make dramatic and much-needed improvements in terms of poverty alleviation and employment generation, but it is ultimately ‘unsustainable’ -- unless there is significant diversification of an essentially service -- and remittance-dependent economy. This means the country needs to build a strong manufacturing base.

Party to a whole host of international trade regimes that have liberalized the Philippines’ manufacturing markets, atop an appreciating currency, the country has been suffering from marked de-industrialization in recent decades. As a result, real wages have practically stagnated in the last three decades, with much of the population denied access to stable and well-paying jobs -- relying instead on remittances, insecure and low-paying jobs in the service sectors, or/and totally enmeshed in the informal economy. Moreover, the Philippines still struggles to attract investments. According to the IFC’s 2012 Doing Business Survey, which looks at the overall investment environment, the Philippines ranks 136th out of 183 countries.

Clearly, reviving industries and improving the country’s overall investment climate will require a much more structural and strategic economic approach, something which is glaringly absent in the current administration’s agenda. But at least, there is finally a semblance of badly-needed macroeconomic and political stability.

(Huffington Post) n

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By jose v. abueva

HAT is a political dynasty? A common meaning is the repeated election and reelection of close relatives with the same surname to offices in the local and national governments. The relatives appear to enjoy a monopoly of political power to the disadvantage of rival leaders. In this sense we can cite many provinces and cities with political dynasties.

Political dynasty members are seen to use their superior wealth, following and access to public resources to favor themselves. They attract their followers and keep them loyal with patronage.

Some of them even resort to unfair, if not illegal, means to keep their political rivals out of office: corruption, fraud, violence, votebuying and intimidation. But other political dynasties do not. So we have “bad political dynasties” and “benevolent political dynasties.”

In general, however, political dynasties rise and fall. A political dynasty can be challenged and defeated, then rise again; or fade away when the people are dissatisfied and turn to other leaders.

For a long time, the Osmeñas and the Cuencos dominated politics in Cebu. Now, the Garcias, Duranos and other families are dominant. In other places politics is keenly competitive and unpredictable, and there is a turnover of ruling families.

DYNASTIES THREAT TO DEMOCRACY Political dynasties are the cause and consequence of our ineffective and unaccountable patron-client democracy, and personalized parties plagued by misuse of power, corruption and wastage of state resources, and of our rapid population growth and continuing underdevelopment.

Dynasties in Senate

The issue of political dynasties has heated up in relation to the 2013 candidates for the Senate who come from one and the same family or clan and thus bear the same surname as another senator, or President Aquino himself.

In this sense, loud public criticism and some cynicism greeted the announcement of senatorial candidates for the 2013 elections. One set belongs to the majority coalition: Bam Aquino, the President’s cousin; Sen. Alan Peter, brother of Sen. Pia Cayetano, succeeding himself; Rep. Juan Edgardo Angara Jr. succeeding his father, Sen. Edgardo Angara, who is reaching his term limit and running to succeed his sis-

The Marcos dynasty (L-R): The former First Lady, now Ilocos Norte congresswoman; daughter Imee, Ilocos Norte governor; and son Bongbong, senator.

All in the family: Former President Joseph Estrada, is flanked by sons Senator Jinggoy Estrada and San Juan Congressman JV Ejercito. ter as governor of Aurora province; former Las Piñas Rep. Cynthia Villar, wife of outgoing Sen. Manuel Villar; former senator Ramon “Jun” Magsaysay, only son of the late and beloved President Ramon Magsaysay (1953-57); and Sen. Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, son of former Sen. Aquilino Pimentel Jr. Under the banner of the United Nationalist Alliance, led by Vice President Jejomar Binay, the senatorial candidates include his eldest daughter, Nancy; Rep. Juan Ponce Enrile Jr. who would be joining his father, the Senate President; Rep. J.V. Ejercito who would join his brother, Sen. Jinggoy Estrada.

Prohibited but not defined Certainly, the framers of our 1987 Constitution recognized the importance of maintaining a level playing field in political competition as expressed in the following provision: “The State shall guarantee equal access to opportunities for public service and prohibit political dynasties as may be defined by law.” (Art. II. Sec. 26) Unfortunately, the framers left it entirely to Congress, many of whose members belong to political dynasties, to define political dynasties and prohibit them. The Commission on Elections (Comelec) can say that it has no clear basis to enforce the constitutional prohibition since the Constitution does not define political dynasties and Congress has not passed the implementing legislation on the subject.

If the framers had been more serious and discerning, they could have prohibited political dynasties effectively by a forthright constitutional prohibition such as this:

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“No outgoing elected official shall be succeeded to the same office by any person related to him/her to the third degree of consanguinity or affinity.”

This would prohibit the spouse, brother or sister, or in-laws, children, or first cousins of the outgoing elected official to succeed him/ her in the same office.

Lack of implementing legislation would not prevent the enforcement of the specific constitutional prohibition. Indeed, the prohibition would make it mandatory for Congress to pass the implementing law. Or the courts would make the decision in a litigation and direct its implementation. The Comelec would be obligated to enforce the court’s decision.

Businessman Luis Biraogo has asked the Supreme Court to enforce the constitutional ban on political dynasties in the 2013 elections. He alleges that the current batch of candidates is “the best testament to that political and constitutional mockery.”

Biraogo asserts that the Comelec is vested with implied powers to make a definition of political dynasties and the “ministerial duty” to prohibit them. He argues that political dynasties are prohibited by the Constitution because they are inherently bad; it does not matter whether they are reform-oriented, or known for public service like Bam Aquino and the Vice President.

Symptom of problems

The rapid expansion of our electorate, consisting of more and more poor people, insecure and dependent voters, and increasing political competition have increased the cost of campaigning and incumbency for the political leaders acting as patrons of their constituents.

Our continuing semi-feudal society and pre-modern political culture shape our dysfunctional elections, political parties, presidential form of government and unitary system of national-local government relations.

The cost of elections is rising in all democracies, except that in the industrialized democracies where many middle class citizens contribute to the campaign of their party candidates. Moreover, the state supports the political parties through subsidies.

In contrast, our middle class is not as broad and deep and effective as a countervailing force to the political establishment, although middle class members are becoming more assertive and our media

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PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

If the framers had been more serious and discerning, they could have prohibited political dynasties effectively by a forthright constitutional prohibition.

The task of implementing the constitutional prohibition on political dynasties is left entirely to Congress, many of whose members belong to political dynasties. are vigilant.

Again, many of our voters are poor dependents of their political patrons. These conditions put great pressure on our politicians to use their power and influence to raise funds for their political survival often through rent-seeking or private use of power, pork barrel politics and influence peddling.

Accountable politics Political dynasties are thus the cause and consequence of our ineffective and unaccountable patronclient democracy, and personalized parties plagued by misuse of power, corruption and wastage of state resources, and of our rapid population growth and continuing underdevelopment.

We cannot begin to change our political system that breeds these ills without basic structural and

institutional reforms, as we critics and Charter change advocates keep saying and writing about.

We need to organize nationwide and democratic political parties based on a defined ideology, and program of governance and reform, with regular dues paying members who continually engage the voters in discussing local and national issues and problems affecting them, and who choose their own leaders and candidates for public office.

In this way, the members own the political party and are not beholden to wealthy patrons. In time, this kind of political parties will help build an alternative to our traditional political parties which are loose and opportunistic alliances of politicians and political dynasties.

Without these various reforms, we cannot develop our economy to make it more productive, competitive,

equitable and inclusive in its growth and benefits. We cannot control the excessive growth of our population and upgrade our environment.

Challenge to PNoy We do need a transforming President to unite our legislators, local government leaders, civil society and media to begin to change the political system, and gradually our political dynasties.

This is the true challenge to leaders who say they are committed to change. This is the real direction

of daang matuwid (straight path).

To be sustainable, fighting corruption and developing the country cannot depend on our President’s charisma alone, however well-meaning and popular and trusted he is.

These require dynamic, functional institutions and a critical mass of transforming leaders gradually replacing our political dynasties.

We need inclusive economic growth, population control and a sustainable environment. In a word, we need good democratic governance that will enable us in the long run to “build a just and humane society.�

(Philippine Daily Inquirer) n (Dr. Jose V. Abueva is UP professor emeritus of political science and public administration, and former UP president. He is also professor and president of Kalayaan College in Quezon City, and a member of the National Congress of the Centrist Democratic Party: Partido ng Tunay na Demokrasya.)

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OS ANGELES -- The National Basketball Association (NBA) dream lives on for Filipino basketball player Japeth Aguilar.

The Golden State Warriors affiliate, Santa Cruz Warriors, selected the 25-year-old Aguilar with the 13th pick in the seventh round of the NBA Development League draft last Nov. 2.

The 6’9”, 210-pound forward became the first pure Filipino to be drafted by an NBA team or affiliate.

“When we saw his name still on the board, we immediately jumped at the chance to grab him,” said Kirk Lacob, the Santa Cruz Warriors’ general manager.

“He worked out with us during one of our local tryouts. We’re very impressed with his ability. We think he has a chance to continue to develop and turn into a really good player,” Lacob added.

When reached by phone, emotion poured through the line as Aguilar spoke about being selected.

“It was very nerve wracking for me. It was crazy,” he said. “This is just the start. Right now, I’m going to do anything I can to help the team win. My goal now is when I get there to learn as quick as possible.”

Three years ago, Aguilar passed on playing in the NBA D-League out of Western Kentucky University to play in the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA). Most Filipino basketball fans expected the lanky player to dominate a league littered with 6’5” centers. He was the first pick in the PBA draft in 2009 but his play in Asia’s first and only professional basketball league was underwhelming.

Splitting his time playing for the PBA team Talk N’ Text and the Smart Gilas Philippine National Team, coaching and positional differences mostly left him relegated to the bench and thus, unable to reach his full potential.

With his PBA contract expired, he ventured out to the US to pursue a lifelong dream in the NBA. After trying out for several NBA and NBA D-League teams, and now being drafted, he believes this is his chance for a fresh start.

“I’ve matured enough [in the past two years]. What people don’t think is the D-League is an equal opportunity [place] for everybody,” he said. “It doesn’t [matter] if you have low stats in college or on a National team, it’s all about learning through the process and improving.

This is an equal opportunity for me to show them my skills. When you

FILIPINO CAGER

Japeth is just scratching the surface of his potential.

MAKES IT TO NBA DRAFT Splitting his time playing for the PBA team Talk N’ Text and the Smart Gilas Philippine National Team, coaching and positional differences mostly left him relegated to the bench and thus, unable to reach his full potential. grow old, you don’t make the same mistake as you made in the past.

The goal really now is to learn the system, work hard and improve everyday.”

Being drafted does not ensure Aguilar of a roster spot on the team.

Aguilar will receive an invite to training camp, where he’ll compete against returning NBA D-League, affiliate players and invited local tryout players.

“There’s only ten spots available so these guys are all going to have to claw and scratch their way onto

the team,” said Lacob.

But if he makes the team and continues to develop, there’s a chance for him to get called up to the Golden State Warriors NBA team. Last year, 42 players in the NBA D-League reached the NBA. “It doesn’t stop here,” said Chris McGarry, Aguilar’s agent. “It’s just starting. Japeth is just scratching the surface of his potential. Now he’ll be exposed to better tutoring, coaching, and he’ll be able to adapt to the US brand of play.”

Lacob said he really likes Aguilar’s length, athleticism and expects

Aguilar in action for Talk N’ Text team in the PBA

the Filipino forward to adjust to the “faster speed” of the game and against bigger guys.

The NBA D-League draft is unlike the more formal NBA draft where NBA Commissioner David Stern or Deputy Commissioner Adam Silver stands behind a podium to read the name of the selected player in Madison Square Garden and fans boo or cheer the pick.

The D-League draft was a live teleconference hosted on a realtime chat site on the league’s website where fans could listen to each NBA D-League team draft a player and chat.

With a high percentage chance that Aguilar was going to get drafted, Filipino fans came out in full force to witness the event.

Once Aguilar’s name was called, the chat was filled with congratulatory messages for the Filipino bas-

ketball player.

“Way to go Japeth,” read one message.

“I hope Japeth goes there to prove himself,” read another.

It’s this kind of support -- not in chat but in person -- that the Santa Cruz Warriors hope Aguilar could bring with him, drawing in the large basketball-loving Bay Area Filipino American population. The SC Warriors recently built a brand new 2,700 seat, 33,000-square-foot basketball facility in downtown Santa Cruz.

“That [Japeth being Filipino] didn’t really matter to us,” said Lacob. “We always take the best players available but I think that is significant. There is a large Filipino population in the Bay Area. I think there’ll be a lot of support for him and we hope people come out and support him.” (ABS-CBN North America News Bureau) n

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NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

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NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

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CELEBR TY

IT’S OVER BETWEEN ANDI AND JAKE ANDI Eigenmann tearfully admitted that she and Jake Ejercito have broken up amid reports that his parents are against her for their son. “ Wala na po. Opo [break na],” she said in an interview with The Buzz on Nov. 11. “Hindi po ako sigurado [kung dahil lang doon]. Siguro po, baka. Kasi dahil mahirap, I’m in showbiz, may anak na ako, baka nahihirapan siya, baka nagiging pabigat na sa kanya to be with someone like me.”

The revelation comes after Andi’s mother, actress Jaclyn Jose, revealed that Jake’s parents, former President Joseph Estrada and former movie star Laarni Enriquez, do not seem to approve of her daughter for their son because she has a child out of wedlock. Andi has a one-year-old daughter from

her past relationship with actor Albie Casiño.

According to Andi, she doesn›t know if Jake’s parents really disapprove of her.

“In all honesty, I never knew kung ayaw sa akin nung mom ni Jake. I just know na Jake has always been so obedient to his parents.

With me naman, kasi may anak na po ako and I’m only 22 -- same with Jake, he’s still 22 and he’s studying -- so kung tingin ng mga tao na hindi po puwede, hindi muna -- hindi ko po alam talaga kung hindi puwede forever or sa ngayon lang. Wala po kaming magagawa kundi sumunod po doon,” she said.

But whether Jake’s parents like her or not, Andi said she wants to prove to them that she also deserves to be loved.

“Masakit po iyon na parang hin-

ANGELICA IN HEAVENLY BLISS ANGELICA Panganiban is in heaven these days. She can’t even describe the happiness she feels being with her current boyfriend, John Lloyd Cruz.

“Iba. Hindi ko alam na nag e-exist pala yung ganoong happiness. Pwede pala yon. Pwede pala. May dalawang tao pa lang magkakasundo at kaya niyong suportahan ang isa›t isa. Yung ganoon ka-simple. Walang hassle, walang problema,” she told reporters during a press conference recently for the 4th anniversary of the TV show Banana Split.

She added: “Dumating sa point na nagkukuwentuhan kami at na-realize ko na may mga lalake pa palang ganun. Yung makikinig talaga.”

The actress finally let go of her emotions after John Lloyd admitted on The Buzz last month that he and Angelica were indeed a couple.

“Wala naman kaming tinatago,” she explained. “Nagkataon lang na noong panahong tinatanong kami ay wala naman talaga. So mahirap bigyan ng label ang mga bagay na wala pa namang label. So ngayon alam na namin kung ano kami sa isa’t isa kapag tinanong kami eh diretso na din naming sasagutin.”

Angelica said it was hard for her to open up about her feelings since she had just come from a relationship that was also an open book to the public. Angelica and

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SHARON THREATENS TO SPILL BEANS ON PIOLO

di ako ‹yung ideal person na ipapakilala sa mga magulang. Hindi ko alam kung dahil may anak na ako or dahil meron lang talagang mali sa akin na hindi gusto ng parents.

Ipapakita ko po sa kanila na I deserve naman po to be loved. Siguro po nasaktan ko po si Jake dati kaya ayaw lang siguro ng mom niya na maulit yun. Naiintindihan ko po iyon. Sa tignin ko naman po I still deserve a chance and hindi naman po yata ako bad person just because nagkamali ako dati,” she said.

MEGASTAR Sharon Cuneta is pissed off by negative messages from fans of Piolo Pascual and is threatening to speak up about the alleged real reason why her daughter KC split from the hunk actor.

Sharon had a run-in again recently with her and KC’s bashers on the social networking site Twitter whom she suspects are supporters of Piolo.

“I and my family have been holding our tongues. He should be thanking me. Konti pa si KC na ang magsasalita. Sana ipakita rin nya all the text messages from 2 people! Mabait pa ako nyan,” Sharon tweeted one of her more than 350,000 Twitter followers.

“God knows it is taking all of my strength to keep my mouth shut. Si Kiko at KC rin nagpipigil lang. Lord help me,” she told another Twitter follower, referring to her husband Sen. Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan.

“They should actually be thanking our family for keeping quiet, kahit sunod-sunod ang pambabastos nila sa amin! Kung alam lang nila,” she said.

Replying to one of her supposed bashers, she warned: “Don’t push me. Ang tagal na namin ni Kiko at KC gusto sabihin lahat. At ipakita ang text msgs ni Piolo mo at ng isa pang tao na sinave lahat ni KC. OKAY? Have a

nice life! Magsama-sama kayong maglambada. Chaka labada.”

Sharon even addressed Piolo directly when she said, “Punongpunong puno na ako!!!!! Akala nila basta lang namin papalampasin to? …Sorry pasensyahan na lang. At pag nagsalita kami, PIOLO, DAHIL SA FANS MO!” After the angry exchange with the bashers, Cuneta then wrote a long six-part tweet to her followers the following day.

One tweet read in part: “Basta I will NEVER just swallow it & just take it all like a doormat & a punching bag (right, buddy?). Basta mabuti na ang mataray at totoo. . . at prangka, kesa plastic at nanloloko ng kapwa. Kaya masakit sa akin, kasi wala pa akong sinasaktan na sadya. Lagi akong nagre-react, di ako ang nagsisimula.”

BOY FIGHTS FOR SAME-SEX RELATIONSHIP former longtime boyfriend Derek Ramsay split in April this year.

She denied reports that she is already engaged to John Lloyd.

The rumor started after she posted a photo on Instagram, showing her wearing what looked like an engagement ring.

“Hindi. Nasa shooting ako noon. Actually common sense lang yon. Hindi ko na dapat yon sagutin.

Sobrang kitid lang ng utak ng mga taong nag-iisip na engaged ako at kung engaged ako ay hindi ko yon ilalagay sa Instagram. Baka magpapa-set up ako ng interview kay Tito Boy (Abunda) at hindi sa Instagram,” she said.

Asked if it was true that John Lloyd bought her a luxury vehicle, she replied: “Nagwo-work ako.

May pera ako. Kaya kong bumili.”

BONG TELEVISION host Boy Abunda admits that Philippine society is not yet open about gay marriage but vowed to continue to fight for this right.

In a special episode of his own show, The Bottomline, last Nov. 3, Boy said he believes it is not impossible that society will come to understand same-sex relationships just like how the father of his partner, Bong Quintana, came to understand their relationship.

“Napakahirap kasi I’ve been with Bong, we’ve lived together for 30 years. It was not an easy relationship. Noong umpisa hindi

maunawaan ng Papa, the late father of Bong... In the beginning, he didn’t understand. In the beginning, he didn’t see the point why my gwapong son would actually live with somebody gay. And I totally, totally understood him,” he said.

Boy revealed that it even came to a point when Bong would be handcuffed inside their house just so he could not go out to meet him.

“May mga panahon, nakaposas si Bong sa kama para lang hindi makalabas kapag magkikita kami. And I understood him. But from that point to the point when Papa would call me and say, ‘Hindi ko gustong may naisulat na hindi maganda tungkol sa ’yo,’ he was so protective,” he related.

But Boy said he will forever love Bong’s father, who later on turned out to be his No. 1 fan. He said this is where he draws strength that one

day, people would accept same-sex relationships.

“Ito ang isa sa mga dahilan kung bakit sa LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) community, kahit gaano kahirap, hindi ako bibitaw.

Kasi naniniwala ako sa puso ko na it’s just a matter of time that people will understand kung ano ang ibig sabihin ng equal opportunity, paggalang, pagkatao, respeto kasi naranasan ko iyon,” he said.

He continued: “Ngayon, 30 years na kami ni Bong, anong nais kong ipaglaban? Is it civil union, is it domestic partnership para lamang mabigyan ng karapatan ang bawat isa sa amin sa aming naipundar, sa aming pagmamahalan?

Gusto ko lang may katahimikan, mayroon kaming security dahil ang pagmamahalan namin is not less than the love and the relationship of anyone in this world.”

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CELEBRITYFILES

BATTLE OF YOU TUBE SENSATIONS

IN varying degrees, both Charice and Zendee Rose Tenerefe have shown the world the Filipinos’ incredible prowess when it comes to singing. The story gets a darker twist, however, when these two talented ladies are being pitted against each other as if they’re in some boxing match.

Fresh from her guest appear-

ance on The Ellen DeGeneres Show -- where Charice made her debut US appearance in 2007 -- Zendee (a.k.a. “Random Girl”) got a controversial “baptism of fire” via the most accessible but notorious platform of cyberspace.

Some speculated that the 21year-old belter has ill feelings towards Charice when she supposedly

re-tweeted (RT) this post: “#KMJS i love zendee! And i hate Charice.

Si Zendee kasi simple. Si charice naman pasosyal.”

The said post naturally drew a mix of concern and dismay from Charice’s fans -- the Chasters -- who took note of Zendee’s earlier declarations that she’s pro-Charice.

Responding to a flood of netizen queries, Zendee admitted on Nov. 3 that she made an accidental “RT” while “favoriting” various positive and negative comments she found about her.

“Haiz, wag naman po sensitive. haaaay! Tao lang. nagkakamali,” she posted.

Zendee hopes that the issue won’t reach Charice, and even told her fellow fans, “CHASTERS (like me) SORRY and I LOVE YOU ALL GUYS!” As a seeming plea to those who might be sizing her up against Charice, Zendee tweeted, “I hope lahat po tayo magiging masaya <3 Wala pong compare :’< at mag sabi ng masama..love you all.”

For her part, Charice seemed to have been impressed by Zendee’s talent. In a recent interview, the latter recalled Charice telling her at the audition, “I think you’ll be the next me!”

AGA’S POLITICAL BID SUFFERS SETBACK AGA Muhlach’s political aspirations were momentarily derailed after a court in Camarines Sur ordered that his name and that of his wife, Charlene Gonzales, be excluded from the list of new voters in San Jose, Camarines Sur. The court ruled that the couple failed to establish their residency in the province six months before the registration period.

Aga, who is seeking the congressional seat in the 4th district of Camarines Sur under the Liberal Party, is appealing the local court’s decision. If the court ruling is sustained, the actor will be disqualified from the May 2013 election.

The court also said the celebrity couple had filed their voter application a little earlier than the prescribed period set by the Commission on Elections.

One of the petitioners for the couple’s delisting from the voters’ list testified that he never saw Aga and Charlene in San Jose town before they filed as new voters. His testimony was backed up by several other petitioners and witnesses.

Aga’s citizenship is also being questioned before the Commission on Elections. A petitioner claimed that Aga is a Spanish citizen.

But the actor’s lawyer said Aga is a natural-born Filipino citizen in spite of having a Spaniard for a father because his mother, Anita Aquino, is a natural-born Filipino.

Aga dispelled the allegations.

“First, my family is really from Partido, taga-Goa kami. My lola is from there, my dad. Parang lahat ng kamag-anak ko doon, nakilala ko na -- yung mga Amador, Go, Borja, Romero, Abundabar, Calleja.”

He added, “I have a house there, matagal na. And as long as I don’t have to travel for ‘Pinoy Explorer’ (his TV show), doon na talaga kami ni Charlene and the kids sa San Jose.”

HEART DISMISSES RUMORS CHIZ IS USING HER WORD is going around that Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero is just using his girlfriend, Heart Evangelista, to boost his political stock in the coming 2013 senatorial elections.

But Heart just shrugged it off. “Okey lang. Bahala na sila. Hindi naman sila ang kinikilig eh. Yeah, I mean, you know… that’s why I want to keep it private kasi ayoko ng mga intriga. But then again, you know… business ko iyong [relationship ko] eh,” the actress said in an interview with Philippine Entertainment Portal.

She also said that this is the reason why she wanted to keep their relationship private. “Kung may mga sinasabi man sila, okey lang.

Wala namang magagawa sa akin ‘yon, eh. I’m always going to be open, I’m always going to be honest. But I won’t be as public as before. I’m happy like that,” she said.

The lovebirds went for a brief vacation in Hong Kong and Macau recently. She said the trip gave her the chance to know the senator better. “Kasi when you travel, you get to know each other more, ‘di ba? So ayon, nakilala ko naman siya more and wala namang difference. Kasi hindi naman ako nagpapanggap. Hindi rin naman siya nagpapanggap.

Pero nag-enjoy ako.”

She also described what she loves about her current boyfriend.

“Maalaga kasi talaga siya eh. Siguro dahil I think he’s older. Tapos ako, younger, so may pagkapabandying-bandying ako nang konti. Kasi ano ako, eh, I’m very sheltered kumbaga. Pero ang dami kong natutunan. Nag-walking-walking kami here and there. But more or less, it’s the same lang naman.”

Asked if she was ready to be the senator’s wife, she laughed: “Oh, my gosh! Huwag muna. Wait! Masyado pang maaga para maisip ko ang tungkol doon.”

The 27-year-old actress: “I have not thought of that. I’d like to enjoy what I have now. I’ve learned my lesson. We’ll never know. Kung mangyayari, mangyayari. Kung hindi, hindi. Uhm… hindi na ako sa posisyon na iniisip ko pa ‘yong mga ‘yon. Enjoy ko lang ‘yong buhay ko one day at a time.”

The 43-year-old senator’s seven-year marriage to Cristine Flores was annulled earlier this year. He has custody of their five-year-old twins.

JOLO- JODI ROMANCE NOW OUT IN THE OPEN ACTOR-politician Jolo Revilla may not be completely revealing yet the real score between him and actress Jodi Sta. Maria, but he is giving obvious clues to the public now.

In fact, he confessed on The Buzz, “Si Jodi ang nagpapatibok ng puso ko.”

He added, “Action speaks louder than words, ‘di ba? Kung baga, siguro obvious naman. Siguro ibalato niyo na lang muna sa amin ‘yan, sasabihin namin ‘yan pagdating ng panahon.”

Jodi, on the other hand, could

only say, “Hindi ko alam kung ano ang sasabihin ko.” In a previous interview with The Buzz, Jodi already admitted that Jolo is “someone special.”

Jolo’s tweets to Jodi are obvious signs of their blossoming romance.

One of his recent tweets read: “Goodnight tweeps. Goodnight@JodiStaMaria may you have the sweetest dreams tonight.” Another one went like this: “Thank you @JodiStaMaria for making our baranggay happy. See you later gwapong bata Thirdy (anak ni Jodi).”

Thirdy is Jodi’s son with estranged husband, Pampi Lacson, son of Sena-

tor Panfilo Lacson. Interestingly, Pampi’s brother, Ronald Jay, is running against Jolo for the vice-gubernatorial seat of Cavite.

Jolo’s family also gives Jodi special treatment and appreciates how she’s influencing the actor positively. Fact is, sometime in September, Jolo’s parents - Senator Bong Revilla Jr. and Congresswoman Lani Mercado-Revilla - thanked Jodi for giving inspiration to Jolo.

The rumored sweethearts were seen together in public during the fiesta celebration in Bacoor City, Cavite, recently.

DARLING

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

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DANIEL With Daniel’s recent triumphs in the fields of acting and music, it is rather easy to make an association to Hollywood’s Justin Bieber.

They have the same packaging, somewhat similar built and facial features, and definitely the same arresting appeal to fans.

By cherie del rio

AILING from the Padilla showbiz clan, 17-year-old Daniel John Ford Padilla is quickly claiming a throne - establishing himself as showbiz royalty, a prince in his own right. Everywhere he goes, Daniel is followed by a flock of screaming fan girls (and even guys). His shows are always a major hit -- and his career shows no signs of spiraling down, only shooting up steadily. His current soap with love team partner Kathryn Bernardo, Princess and I, continues to top primetime ratings. The series is not done yet but there are already talks of Daniel moving to the big screen; he is slated to appear in a film alongside Kathryn and comedy icons Ai Ai De Las Alas and Vice Ganda.

Daniel is relatively new in show business. His first TV appearance was in 2010 in ABSCBN’s Gimik 2010, where he was paired with Julia Montes. His big break, however, came a year after when he landed the role of Patrick Rivero in the youth-oriented show, Growing Up, opposite Kathryn of Mara Clara fame. Daniel and Kathryn’s chemistry in Growing Up was undisputable. Shortly after the show’s successful debut, KathNiel became an official love team.

A certified big star

Kathniel: Today’s hottest love team Their partnership was such a big success that the young love team went on to be the lead stars in the primetime soap Princess and I, sharing the screen with veteran actors Albert Martinez and Gretchen Barretto. Every weeknight, Daniel’s legion of fan girls swoon and sigh as the young heartthrob beguiles them with his good looks, charm and talent.

The awards that Daniel has received are a definite indication of how successful he is now. His self-titled music album released last May under Star Records has garnered the Platinum award. Just this year as well, he has won three major citations from different award-giving bodies: Best Male Newcomer from the Yahoo! Philippines OMG! Awards, German Moreno Youth Achievement Award from

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FAMAS Awards, and one of the 100 Most Beautiful Stars of Yes! magazine.

Daniel is truly a certified big star. But when asked how it feels to be this famous, he humbly replied that everything is normal since he does not get any special treatment at home.

“Para sa akin, normal pa din lahat,” he says. “Kung baga sa bahay, walang star treatment sa akin.”

Star factor and talent surely runs in his blood. Daniel is the son of showbiz celebrities Rommel Padilla and Karla Estrada. He used to play in a band where his brother JC did vocals. His uncle, popular action star Robin “Binoe” Padilla, has given Daniel a few words of wisdom.

The Pinoy cinema’s Bad Boy’s advice to the fast rising young star: “Huwag mawawala ang respeto, at ayusin ang trabaho.”

At first glance, one can immediately notice the resemblance of Daniel to Uncle Robin, but Daniel maintains that he is not chick boy.

Besides, Daniel’s boyish good looks set him apart from the ruggedly handsome Binoe.

“Hindi ako ma-chicks na tao. Hindi ako magkaka-oras na maging chick boy,” Daniel reiterates. “Siguro kung meron man, isa lang ho.” Die hard supporters of KathNiel can only hope that this isa lang would be none other than Daniel’s leading lady, Kathryn.

With Daniel’s recent triumphs in the fields of acting and music, it is rather easy to make an association to Hollywood’s Justin Bieber. They have the same packaging, somewhat similar built and facial features, and definitely the same arresting appeal to fans. His Twitter account, @imdanielpadilla, currently has over 926,000 followers. An Instagram account of the same handle has over 36,000 followers. On Facebook, there are a handful of fan pages devoted to Daniel. One even has up to half a million “fans” already. It cannot be denied that Daniel has quite the presence not just on TV or in radio waves but also (and perhaps more strongly) in social networking sites.

Daniel has a charisma that draws in fans and supporters, teenage girls and even adult women. The way he smiles and projects himself makes him an unmistakable showbiz sweetheart -- one that has captured audiences everywhere, and one that has easily made him the ultimate darling of the Pinoy crowd. n

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SHOULD WE LEGALIZE Prostitution?

Many women are lured into prostitution as a result of poverty.

By mick m. basa

AVAO CITY -- Gently brushing her cheek against her newborn like a breeze in the warmest hours of the afternoon, 20-year-old Adelyn has a lot to thank for since she became a mother.

A young single parent, Adelyn said the birth of her daughter helped her break the cycle of being a prostituted woman, an event in her life she never expected to happen.

Running away from home to escape her father’s cruelty, she moved to Cebu three years ago, carrying with her an ambition to live a life she wanted – free from violence and poverty.

Promised a job to become a hostess in a bar where she was instructed to go “outing” with patrons, Adelyn took the offer, thinking that “outing” would only mean going out with them for a drink.

“I experienced all the things a woman would never want to happen,” she said in Visayan.

Adelyn was only 17 years old then when she was promised a “high-paying” job. Concerned groups said she is just one of hundreds of women here who have been trafficked. Recruiters offered jobs but compelled the women to engage in sexual activities in exchange for payment.

15

Lory realized her employer had already “sold” her when a customer asked her for an “outing.”

“First, I thought outing was just to have fun and drinking until I realized the taxi we rode was heading

The United Nations has suggested that Asian countries, including the Philippines, legalize prostitution. It said there is a “greater chance” of safer sex practices when prostitution is decriminalized by providing health and safety standards in the said industry.

to a motel,” she said.

There have been 1,099 registered prostituted women in Davao City since 2011, Carina Sajonia, Talikala advocacy officer, said.

Talikala, a non-government organization that looks after the welfare of prostituted women, said 2,198 are unregistered while an estimated 4,000 women and children are also engaged in prostitution.

About 20% are believed to be minors whose ages range from 12 to

17 years old.

“Don’t judge us because you don’t even know our story,” according to Lory, who said prostitution is not even a job that many people think they wanted.

Abuse She recalled having been abused countless times by her customers.

One time, she said, a police officer shoved a gun inside her genitals and started beating her, taking all

‘Outing’ Lory Pabunag, 36, a mother of 3, said she had a horrible experience that dates all the way back to 1994.

“Someone told me that there was a restaurant looking for a waitress whose pay is good. But when I started working for them, I got surprised because we were forced to wear skimpy dress. There was no food in the restaurant – only beer and finger foods,” Lory said in Visayan.

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

of her money. Days later she had to see the doctor since her vagina got infected.

“How bitter this life is. My only hope is to raise my three children, buy their milk and clothes. Why do our customers treat us like we are rubbish?” she said in Visayan.

She flirted with death once, when her customer, a judo instructor, turned angry when she refused to do anal sex.

“He immersed me in a bath tub filled with warm water while I was naked. He insulted me, saying I’m no longer a virgin. Of course, I already had children. My head was already bleeding. He began striking me with his fist and foot. I thought I was going to die,” she said.

Prostitution in the Philippines remains an illegal activity and has specifically victimized women.

This means that those who arrange for clients and control those prostituted are regarded as violators of the law.

But local government units tolerate these activities by providing business permits to establishments known to house prostituted women. Prostituted women, on the other hand, are given “pink” cards, said Sajonia.

Legalize prostitution?

The United Nations, in its October 2012 report, said criminalization “increases vulnerability to HIV by fuelling stigma and discrimination” and suggested that Asian countries, including the Philippines, legalize prostitution.

The report said there is a “greater chance” of safer sex practices when prostitution is decriminalized by providing health and safety standards in the said industry.

“There is no evidence that decriminalization has increased sex work,” it said. But women’s rights organizations in the country have opposed the UN’s proposal.

“Legalization of prostitution will only legalize the abuses and exploitation within the system of prostitution,” said Jeannette Ampog, executive director of Talikala.

“Legalization of prostitution will benefit the sex industry, and the people behind it will become legitimate businessmen,” she added.

For the sons and daughters of women who used to be in prostitution, legalizing it will only mean that the government has turned its back from women looking for a way out of the illegitimate industry.

Poverty Without education and skills, many women end up in the flesh trade industry like these bar girls in Angeles City

“My mother succumbed to prostitution because of poverty. She

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

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Vancouver Edition

Other countries have legalized prostitution as a way to provide health and safety standards to sex workers. has not finished school. She did it for us. And “Our law says prostitution is a crime. And there are others (who engage in prostitution) it has identified only women as the perpetrawho did it simply because they were deceit- tors of what it calls an illegal activity,” he fully recruited,” said 16-year-old Anna Mae. said.

Prostitution, according to 16-year-old EdFor the ones trapped in a job no woman ward (not his real name), is a product of pov- would ever have dreamed of being in when erty. His friend Anna Mae and Louie agreed. they were young, Lory – who now works as All their mothers once engaged in prostitu- a volunteer of a group of prostituted women tion.

– said the pain from their dark past is eased Aspiring to become a politician someday, by the hope their children represent. he said he is determined to make “better” “Slowly, I’m finding a new meaning of laws that will advocate for women’s rights. life through my children and by loving myHe wants to do it to honor his mother. self,” Lory said. (Rappler.com) n

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By aliana gimena

O L A / LO LO, mamang/tatang, grandma/ grandpa, nana, abuela/abuelo - whatever term of endearment we call our grandparents, there’s no denying the fact that they play an important role in raising, even influencing, us their grandchildren.

Meet Lola Encarnacion D. Supan, 68, fondly called Lola Carning by her family. Lola Carning had to take care of her one-year old granddaughter Carmel whose parents went to abroad. Admittedly, she feared of this responsibility.

“Mahirap kasi bibigyan ka ng responsibilidad na alagaan ang isang bata na hindi mo naman anak. Kumbaga iniwan at inihabilin lang siya sa akin,” Lola Carning said in an interview.

“Lagi ko rin iniisip yung apo ko noon kasi ang liit-liit palang niya, iniwan na siya ng parents niya. Minsan nahihirapan kaming patulugin siya kasi namamahay siya. Kailangan pa namin siyang ilibot, isakay sa tricycle

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PHILIPPINES

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

GRANDPARENTS TAKE OVER AS PARENTS WORK OVERSEAS Grandparents assume the role of the absentee parents who leave to work overseas. But even if the parents are in the country, grandparents continue to provide all sorts of guidance and support to their grandchildren, a phenomenon unique to our culture.

Grandparents have an important role in the Filipino family.

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or sa kung anong sasakyan para lang makatulog siya,” she added.

Lola Carning admitted that disciplining her grandchild, financial management, and raising the child with the right values were some of the things that challenged her. But one of the most challenging parts she experienced was adapting to technology, particularly the use of laptops, Facebook and Skype.

Nowadays, these are some of the ways utilized to communicate with family members working abroad.

“Nahirapan ako sa technology. Hindi ko alam ang MagicJack, Skype, at Facebook. Yun pa naman ang mga paraan para makita ng anak ko yung apo ko dito sa Pilipinas. Pero buti na lang, nandiyan yung isa kong anak para tulungan ako,” Lola Carning shared.

But after two years, Carmel’s parents decided to come home and bring their child with them to the United States. “Masakit na masakit.

Nung sinabi pa lang nila na kukunin na nila apo ko, masakit na. Tapos nung inaasikaso na yung papers niya, naiisip ko na yung pag-alis niya. Nalulungkot ako at di ako makatulog pag minsan,” Lola Carning recalled.

Eventually, Lola Carning was able to adjust and is now regularly communicating with her granddaughter through Skype. When asked if she still wants to go through it again with another grandchild, she said, “Ayoko na siguro.”

Meanwhile, Lola Lolita L. Victorio, 70, has a different kind of situation. The grandchild she took care of is now a teenager and college student. In a telephone interview with Lola Lolita, she said that she was there for her granddaughter Therese ever since she was born.

“Buhat ng bagong panganak pa lang siya, inalagaan ko na siya.”

Even though Therese’s parents are in the country, Lola Lolita still took care of her. Also, she lives with Therese’s family. As a grandmother, she admitted that she is a

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More parents are turning towards their own parents for priceless help.

Lola Carning with her granddaughter Carmel days before the latter joined her parents in the US. “strict lola.”

“Hatid-sundo ko pa siya sa school hanggang first year high school siya, kahit ayaw na ni Therese gusto ko pa rin. At yun din naman kasi ang gusto ng nanay niya,” Lola Lolita shared.

“Pag naman lumalabas siya, tinatanong ko kung sinu-sino kasama niya.

Pag oras or late na, hindi ko na pinapalabas. At dapat marunong siyang sumunod sa oras na pinag-usapan,” she added.

When her granddaughter went to college, she did not help but feel afraid.

“Kinakahabahan din ako kasi malayo na ang alaga ko. Nag-aalala ako kasi wala ng mag-aasikaso sa kanya,” Lola Lolita said.

Though Lola Lolita and Therese’s parents lived under one roof, Lola knew her limitation when it comes to disciplining and raising her granddaughter. “Pag desisyon ng parents niya, yun na. Hindi ko na pinapakialaman yun,” she said.

According to Professor Excelsa C. Tongson, a family life and child development (FLCD) specialist and a faculty at the FLCD Department of the University of the Philippines Diliman, grandparents, especially

grandmothers, have a role in the Filipino family.

They help mothers in raising a child in the context of Filipino society. “Halimbawa, nanay ako, pag meron akong hindi alam gawin especially nung

bago akong nanay, ang tinatanungan ko ay either yung nanay ko o yung motherin-law ko,” Tongson said.

Prof. Tongson also mentioned that grandparents have different roles: grandparents raising their children and grandparents parenting their children. There are several reasons why a grandparent gets involved with these roles. First, the parents of the child are Overseas Filipino Workers (OFW). Second, parents probably abandoned their kids so grandparents were left with no choice but to take care of their grandchildren. Third, the parents might have died already. And in some cases, grandparents parti-

Lola Lolita and Therese during the latter’s high school graduation day.

Vancouver Edition

cularly the grandmother becomes a caregiver. She is the one taking care of the child while parents are at work during the day.

In Lola Carning’s case, she became the alternative parent. While Lola Lolita’s situation fits the case in which the grandmother becomes a caregiver, therefore taking the role of a “grandparent raising the child.”

The two stories are set on two different contexts. As a grandparent, the bigger picture here is it should be clear why you are taking care of the child because technically speaking, it is better if parents are the ones who should take care of their children. But somehow parents become “victims of their own circumstances,” Tongson said.

But do grandparents make “better parents” as they are overprotective and tend to spoil their grandchildren?

“Nagiging overprotective sila kasi mas lalong nakakatakot na malaki yung responsibilidad mo dahil hindi mo anak. If anything happens to that child, siya yung talagang mabubuntunan ng sisi,” Tongson explained.

On the matter of grandparents spoiling their grandchildren, Tongson said: “Tingin ko mukhang mas na-i-spoil sila kasi yung lolo o lola talaga kumbaga may kasabihan sa Filipino na tubo na nila yun or profit na nila yun. Parang tapos na yung kanilang developmental task bilang magulang na mag-disiplina sa kanilang mga anak.”

At a time when child care in the form of hiring a yaya or sending a child to a daycare center has become a pricey option and making ends meet to raise a family has become a great financial challenge, more parents are turning towards their own parents for priceless help. Besides, whether a grandparent may be overprotective or tends to spoil his or her apo, it boils down to the kind of love and care only grandparents can shower their grandchildren. (InterAksyon.com ) n

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IT’S NOT JUST MARCOS COUNTRY ANYMORE

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

The windmills of Bangui are a sight to behold.

Aside from the numerous destinations to explore – natural, cultural and historical sites -- the delectable dishes and Abel Iloko woven products make for a compelling reason to visit the north.

OR the longest time, Ilocos Norte has been known as “Marcos Country,” or “Ilocoslovakia,” terms that emphasize the insularity of the province from the rest of the country. Now, the province is a tourists’ haven boasting a wide array of destinations and a myriad of activities to engage in.

The visits to the Marcos Mausoleum and Museum (Barangay10-N Lacub, Batac City) where the late dictator is buried, and Malacañang of the North (Suba, Paoay), the official residence of the Marcos family in its heyday, are now mere historical footnotes and no longer the overwhelming reason for tourists to visit the province. Aside from the numerous destinations to explore, the delectable dishes and Abel Iloko woven products make for a compelling reason to visit the north.

It’s as if an unseen hand has sculpted the magnificent white limestone of the Must-see’s

Wind-blowing wonder -While it is a modern invention, the Northwind Bangui Bay Project, or simply the Bangui windmills, is quite an amazing view to behold. About 20 huge wind turbines painted white, tower on the shore of Bangui facing the South China Sea, as they try to harness the power of the wind into renewable energy for the province.

Religious heritage -- Completed in 1710, Paoay Church is on the list of Unesco’s World Heritage Sites

for baroque churches in the Philippines. It is impressive in the way its builders tried to make it earthquake-proof as much as possible, fortifying its structure with bricks and coral. Its façade is washed out and no longer of the stunning redbrick color it may have originally been, and is dotted with floral renditions in stone almost Javaneselike in interpretation. Inside, the walls and retablo are simple with only the florid iron pulpit built in 1891 remaining as a reminder of the edifice’s former splendor.

Kapupurawan Rock Formation.

White rock -- Gazing up at the majestic Kapupurawan Rock Formation in the town of Burgos is almost a spiritual experience. It’s as if an unseen hand has sculpted the magnificent white limestone, making it stand out from the rest of the scenery. Hewn by the wind and the sea, and bleached by the sun, the white rock (kapupurawan meaning “whitest” in Ilocano) can be seen from a viewing deck or up close, being reachable via short horse ride.

To-do’s Be a beach bum -- The whitesand beach of Pagudpud is about an hour-and-a-half drive from Laoag City and now has numerous reasonably priced resorts catering to tourists. The trick, however, is to find the less rocky portions in the water, but to be sure, bring your surf shoes to protect your feet.

What’s great about Pagudpud, specifically in the portion known as Saud beach (where the resorts are),

If it’s peace and quiet you want, Pagudpud is definitely the beach to consider. is that it is quite easy to choose a deserted spot to put your things down, lay out your beach mat, and just go for a nap after a refreshing swim.

If it’s peace and quiet you want, Pagudpud is definitely the beach to consider.

Shop for weaves -- The public market in Laoag City is the best place to secure your Abel Iloko woven products. A number of stalls provide the itinerant purveyor of provincial souvenirs colorful pillow cases, traditional blankets in all mattress sizes, foot rugs, and the like.

Of course, tourists can also buy other items from this market such as traditional food delicacies and souvenirs for pasalubong, as well as wet-market food items for one’s Ilocano cooking experiments.

Gorge on sitsaron -- There is nothing more comforting than a huge slab of succulent pork belly with its luscious fat deep-fried to a crisp. I personally like eating it with garlic fried rice along with another immortal Ilocano dish, the vegetable-laden pinakbet (from the Ilocano word pinakebbet or shriveled, so-called because the vegetables are cooked until they are shriveled), to help the heart recover from the cholesterol shock.

Other celebrated Ilocano fare are the fresh ar-arusip (seaweed) mixed with ripe tomatoes and onions), dinardaraan (the Ilocanos’ version of dinuguan or pork blood stew), poqui-poqui (grilled sweet eggplants with garlic, shallots and tomatoes), lomo-lomo (soup made of pork tenderloin and innards), among other delicacies.

There are a few restaurants in Ilocos Norte that are noteworthy to try (Johnny Moon Café at the La Tabacalera Ilocano Lifestyle Center, along Llanes and General Luna streets in Laoag City for the sitsaron sandwich; Herencia Center across Paoay Church for the pinakbet pizza), but in reality, visitors can only get authentic Ilocano fare in the house of a local.

Other interesting activities in Ilocos North include sand-boarding at the Paoay Sand Dunes, and playing the card tables at the Fort Ilocandia Resort and Casino. (Business Mirror) n

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Gawad Kalinga has teamed up with the government to restore the grandeur of Intramuros by resettling the squatter families in the area and providing them with livelihood.

By carmela g. lapeñA

N the heart of Manila, calesas still roam the cobblestone streets of Intramuros. Across San Agustin Church, the oldest church in the Philippines, is the Plaza San Luis Complex, which features Philippine-Hispanic architecture. Time stands still inside Casa Manila, a museum showcasing the affluent lifestyle at the turn of the 20th century.

Intramuros, which was honored

by King Philip II with the title Insigne y Siempre Leal Ciudad (Distinguished and Ever Loyal City), is a window to our nation’s past.

Once the center of Spain’s empire in the East, Intramuros was a bustling, vibrant city. Today, it is valued as a national heritage, but problems of overcrowding and deterioration remain a huge obstacle for the Intramuros Administration, whose mandate is to restore and develop Intramuros as a historic site and major tourist attraction.

Despite efforts to preserve the Walled City, more than 3,400 infor-

KALINGA INTRAMUROS TO RESTORE SOUL OF THE NATION

“Ang Intramuros ay napakahalaga because it is the window to our soul. And it shows also our neglect of our heritage... if we can restore Intramuros, then in a way we become whole as a people and as a nation,” says Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto.

Some 3,400 squatter families in Intamuros will be resettled in Cavite but the breadwinners will be given jobs in the Walled City.

mal settlers are currently occupying public and private lands in the area.

“This is supposed to be the soul of the Filipino. Pero diyan mo makikita ‘yung maraming informal settlers living under subhuman conditions,” said Gawad Kalinga founder Tony Meloto during a press conference last Oct. 3.

Through the Kalinga Intramuros campaign, Gawad Kalinga and the Intramuros Administration plan to facilitate the relocation of the 3,400 informal settler families to a GK village in Trece Martires City in Cavite.

“To me, it’s a crime that we have neglected to address this problem.

Manila now is a city bursting with informal settlers simply because we failed to address this for decades,” Meloto said, adding that the first thing that needs to be done is to restore human dignity. “Mahirap ang nabubuhay na tinatawag na squatter. Kapag ang tao nakatira sa squatters area, lumaki siya sa kulungan ng hayop, nag-iisip siya at gumagalaw na hayop,” Meloto said.

Meloto explained that restoring human dignity, especially for the men, will give them a sense of self-worth, enable them to learn the value of work, and have pride in one’s community.

“Kaya ang mga GK homes are brightly colored with landscaped gardens. Because we want the poorest Filipinos to wake up every day, saying to himself, ‘I’m no longer an animal, I’m a human being.’ Kasi ‘pag tao na siya, maghahanap na ‘yan ng hanapbuhay, maghahanap na ‘yan ng trabaho,” he said.

Meloto observed that while most of the poverty interventions focus on women, it’s the men who are the biggest problem. “What we hope is that when we relocate them outside of the city that we can also motivate the men to start to look for work,” he said, adding that in some Gawad Kalinga sites, the communities are encouraged to go back to agriculture.

“To me it’s very scandalous that a country with one of the richest lands in Asia should claim that 20 percent of the people go hungry,” he said.

Intramuros Administrator Jose Capistrano said the relocation will begin with 100 families who are currently occupying land across the National Commission on Culture

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and the Arts along General Luna, a main street of Intramuros.

“Once the site is cleared, we intend to put up a three-storey building and in this building we intend to put a hostel and dormitory. Just across the street is the eight-storey building of the NCCA, and they sponsor a lot of seminars and fora and invite delegates from all over the Philippines, so they need temporary housing accommodation,” he said.

Capistrano said that part of the plan is for the breadwinners to be able to come back to Intramuros during the week. “We will have dormitories for them so that during the workweek they are here in Intramuros and on weekends they go back to their families. We intend to have a shuttle service for that. I wish there would be some available space for some of them to remain here but right now it’s just not available,” he said.

At Trece Martires, the 11-hectare GK Village will be built on land donated by Cityland Development Corporation. There will be pocket parks, an amphitheater, community center, farm lots, as well as a school and commercial area.

So far, Kalinga Intramuros has received three pledges of P3 million

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Gawad Kalinga homes are brightly colored with landscaped gardens to give the poor a sense of self-worth. each, the amount needed for a village for 20-25 families.

These pledges from the CBCPCalungsod Commission, GK All85, and UST Medicine Class 1970 will be used for the first 100 families, but an additional village is needed.

To generate additional resources,

P

re

s

Gawad Kalinga is holding its third GK Hope Ball, where there will be a fundraising auction and a fashion show led by Fashion and Design Council of the Philippines head JC Buendia, which will feature Kalinga Intramuros champions.

The Hope Ball “gathers the

ent

country’s elite to respond to the need to address the pervasive problem of poverty and work towards a better Philippines,” a press release said.

“We have redefined what it means to be sosyal. Social innovation, social entrepreneurship, social

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

enterprise naging sosyal. Ang marami sa mga dating nagyayabang ng mga malalaking alahas nila, binibigay na nila ‘yung mga alahas nila para ‘yung mahihirap makakain,” Meloto said.

The first two incarnations of the Hope Ball were focused on the Sulu mission, creating support for the Tausug community in conflict-ridden Panamao. Built with the proceeds of the first Hope Ball in 2012, the Hope Panamao GK Village gave the town’s victims 31 new homes. After the second Hope Ball, proceeds of P6 million were used for a new GK village, as well as the development of Sulu’s local industries.

This time, the Hope Ball shifts its focus to Intramuros, aiming to build advocacy, generate resources for Kalinga Intramuros villages, and generate support for sustainable tourism in the Walled City.

“Ang Intramuros ay napakahalaga because it is the window to our soul. And it shows also our neglect of our heritage... if we can restore Intramuros, then in a way we become whole as a people and as a nation,” Meloto said.

Kalinga Intramuros hopes to have the groundbreaking in Trece Martires by November 2012, and the first turnover of homes by June 2013. (GMA News) n

s

A Stage Reading of Nick Joaquin’s

“Portrait” An Elegy in Three Scenes AMasterpiece in Philippine Theatre in association with Gateway Theatre, Philippine Cultural Celebration in Richmond, Philippine Consulate General &Richmond Public Library Featuring Eleanor Guerrero Campbell, Dulce Cuenca, B.C. Lee, Kenson Ho, Susan de Guzman, Wilbur Victoria, Clay Campbell, and Anna Pansacola

Directed by Mel Tobias

December 4, 2012, Tuesday, at 7:00pm - Q & A and reception to follow Gateway Theatre Studio B 6500 Gilbert Road, Richmond Ticket price $30 (General Admission) Limited seating - Availablefrom Nov 15 at: Richmond Gateway Theatre Box Office (604-270-1812) or on-line through tickets. gatewaytheatre.com Again (Nostalgia Boutique) at 1868 West Broadway (640-730-0222)

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

RIS Valdez began life unwanted by his parents and was soon scavenging in a rubbish dump, an unlikely start for a boy now hailed as an inspiration for children around the world.

Valdez, 13, won this year’s International Children’s Peace Prize for his work as head of a charity organization that educates and hands out gifts to thousands of youngsters in his poverty-plagued hometown.

South African human rights activist and Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu gave Valdez his award at a ceremony in the Netherlands in September, declaring him a “voice for the voiceless” and a “true inspiration.”

After returning to the streets of Cavite, a coastal city on the outskirts of Manila, Valdez spoke in a soft voice about his noble philosophies that emerged from personal devastation and the people who turned his life around.

“I help because I see myself in children who roam and live on the streets,” Valdez said during one of his weekend community outreach programs.

“Some good-hearted people showed me love and changed my life, and I am just paying it forward.”

Valdez, nicknamed “Kesz”, was born the third of nine children from a desperately poor couple who lived with hundreds of other squatter families on the fringes of a huge garbage dump in Cavite.

His parents called him “bad luck” because they tried to sell him when he was a baby but failed, according to Harnin Manalaysay, the head of a local Christian youth charity who eventually rescued Valdez.

Manalaysay said Valdez was forced to start scavenging in the garbage dump from the age of two.

At ages three and four, Valdez was sleeping anywhere he could, including atop tombs at the city cemetery, because he frequently fled home to escape beatings by his rickshaw-driver father, according to Manalaysay.

At an age when children are just learning how to make friends, Valdez was learning to beg and steal.

“I found him sleeping on a curbside covered in flies. He was very dirty and being kicked by passers by,” Manalaysay said.

Manalaysay enrolled Valdez,

PINOY STREET KID PLANET

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IS A GLOBAL INSPIRATION “I help because I see myself in children who roam and live on the streets. Some good-hearted people showed me love and changed my life, and I am just paying it forward,” says Cris during one of his weekend community outreach programs.

Cris hoists trophy he received from South African Archbishop Desmond Tutu (right) during the awarding of the Children’s Peace Prize in The Hague, Netherlands, on September 19. then aged four, in his alternative learning programme for street children, in which volunteer teachers use mobile classrooms on pushcarts to bring classes to the students. In between lessons, Valdez still scavenged for scraps to help out his family.

Then bad luck struck Valdez again when he was five. Fellow scavengers jostling around a dump truck accidentally shoved him into a pile of burning tires, badly injuring his arms and back.

Valdez said his mother took him to Manalaysay, who paid for his medical treatment and allowed him to recuperate at the charity worker’s shelter for street children, called Club 8586.

The young boy’s charity has helped 10,000 children in Cavite over the past six years.

“She came back (months) later to tell me they did not want him back anymore,” Manalaysay said.

Manalaysay, a portly marine engineer whose club has been helping troubled youths for more than 27 years, became his legal guardian.

Under his tutelage, Valdez recovered, and his grades improved.

He also began volunteering as a sixyear-old to teach other street children about basic hygiene.

When Valdez turned seven, Manalaysay asked him what he wanted as a birthday gift.

“I told him I wanted other children to receive what I had: rubber slippers, toys and candies,” Valdez said.

So Valdez and his guardian spent the day giving various items to street children.

The giving became a yearly tradition and led to the creation of Valdez’s own charity, called Championing Community Children.

Under Manalaysay’s guidance, Valdez built the charity into one that raises funds from private donors to buy basic living items for children, including sandals, toys, food and clothes.

Volunteers, made up mostly of Valdez’s friends, also teach basic hygiene, nutrition and gardening, as well as educate children on their rights to help prevent abuse.

Valdez’s charity has helped 10,000 children in Cavite over the past six years, according to the judging committee of the International Children’s Peace Prize, which was founded by Dutch organization KidsRights.

“Kesz is like any other normal kid. But his achievements, and the number of people he has helped, surpass those of most adults,” Manalaysay said.

Valdez’s plans for the immediate future are to continue with his charity, while making sure his school work does not suffer from his busy schedule.

Eventually, he wants to work in one of the toughest jobs of all, while expanding his charity work.

“I’m studying hard because I want to be a doctor... I want to help more children, not only in the Philippines, but also in other countries,” he said. (Agence France-Presse) n

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Inutak is made from galapong (ground rice with water), coconut milk, and sugar.

By sandy daza

SK any Filipino here or abroad why our cuisine is not as popular among Westerners -- unlike Thai, Vietnamese, Malaysian even Singaporean dishes -- and you will get a variety of explanations. Our cooking has too much oil, or the colors are not that appealing, or the food is unhealthy.

Well, aren’t most delicious dishes unhealthy?

I have my own theory. If you notice, Thai and Vietnamese cuisines use mostly Asian ingredients like pandan, coconut milk, mint leaves, chili, shrimp paste, soy sauce, patis or fish sauce, and many others. You will hardly see any Western ingredients in their dishes. So, when a Westerner tastes the food, it is exotic to them, being unfamiliar flavors.

Our cuisine, on the other hand, because of centuries of Spanish influence on us, has Western ingredients like tomato sauce or paste, cream, cheese, etc. The presence of these ingredients makes our cuisine not so exotic to Western palates. Samples of such dishes are mechado, menudo, afritada, morcon, relleno, etc.

If we serve dishes without these ingredients, I believe they, too, will make an impact in the international market. Our restaurant in Paris, Aux Iles Philippines, served escargot with binagoongan sauce, prawns with taba ng talangka sauce and sinigang. All these dishes the fine-dining French found very exotic and appealing.

In fact, our resto was rated then as the No. 2 Asian restaurant in Paris, just after a Vietnamese restaurant called Le Nemme. As foodie Myrna Segismundo would say in many of our discussions on this subject, all we need is around five Filipino dishes that will make a mark in the world market.

Thailand and Vietnam have only a handful of exceptionally popular dishes. So, for me, local dishes such as adobo, sisig, sinigang, tinola, lechon

manok or inasal na manok, lechon, taba ng talangka, dinakdakan, etc., should eventually put us on the same level as our neighbors.

Also, we don’t give too much at-

We don’t give too much attention to our sweets and desserts.

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INUTAK, SAPIN-SAPIN, TIBOK-TIBOK, DINAKDAKAN, ANYONE? Thai and Vietnamese cuisines use mostly Asian ingredients like pandan, coconut milk and mint leaves. So, when a Westerner tastes the food, it is exotic to them, being unfamiliar flavors. Our cuisine, on the other hand, has Western ingredients like tomato sauce and cream, which make our cuisine not so exotic to Western palates.

tention to our sweets and desserts.

We have exceptional sweets or kakanin -- Via Mare and Ferino’s bibingka galapong, for instance. La Tasca’s bibingkang malagkit is also a win-

ner. More: sapin-sapin of Dolor’s in Bulacan; Gerry Sevilla’s ube halaya and pastillas made from carabao’s milk; tibok-tibok of Susie’s in Pampanga; buko pandan of Nathaniel’s -- all these will surely make any for-

To make it to the international market, Filipino food should be exotic and appealing, like this crispy pork binangoongan.

NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

eigner smile in satisfaction.

Sansrival is another example of a delicious dessert, but one that might not be as exotic as the others since it has all these Western ingredients such as cream, butter and nuts.

A few months back, I was walking inside SM Megamall when I came across a tiny stall on the ground floor. It was selling Napoliones of Bacolod -- a spin-off of the French pastry Napoleon or flaked pastry cream. In the stall right beside it, meanwhile, was something I had never come across before, called inutak (the saleslady was giving away sample bites). It was white with purple and had a sapin-sapin-like texture. I could not believe I had never come across this one before, because it was so good.

Inutak is like a combination of sapin-sapin and tibok-tibok. The first thing that came to mind was, “Now, this will surely make any foreigner dream about our food.” I am told it originally came from Pateros. One of the customers at Wooden Spoon was telling me that the original one is all white. I have not seen one, but I feel the ube color adds a nice touch to it.

Whenever there are potluck dinners and I want to bring something good and different, inutak has become my contribution of choice.

Not too sweet, sticky and bursting with flavors (in fact, there are different flavors). But get the original!

If I were to make a list of Filipino desserts I feel would appeal to the foreign market, inutak will be on top of my list. (Philippine Daily Inquirer) n

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COMMUNITYNEWS

MABLE ELMORE IS CHALLENGED!!

Mark Robertson, BC Liberal Director of Field Operations formally congratulating Gabby Kalaw.

By CHOLO INSUA

V

ancouver Filipinos are in for an interesting Provincial elections. Three weeks ago NARIMA DE LA CRUZ announced her political aspirations and is vying for a nomination with the BC- NDP to run as MLA candidate in Surrey Tynehead riding. She wants to join Mable Elmore in the Provincial Legislative Assembly. But wait a minute, last Wednesday, November 7, 2012 GABBY KALAW, a young and aggressive Philippine-born social activist wants to oust MABLE ELMORE from her Legislative seat! Mr. Kalaw set his sights on the VancouverKensington riding as the BC Liberal Candidate. He is off to a fast start in his campaign efforts. Kalaw is now appealing to the Filipino community for their support. Will he have the organization skills and support to defeat Ms. Elmoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s political machinery? The Filipino community will be divided into two camps. Are the Filipinos ready and mature enough to decide based on issues? This will be interesting.

BC Liberal candidate Gabby Kalaw announcing his candidacy to the local media and his supporters What is clear is that the Filipino community is slowly maturing and is getting involved in Politics.

With our numbers estimated as over sixty thousand in the lower

mainland, Filipinos are indeed a political force if we can simply get out and vote. Unity remains a pipe dream perhaps. We are still well divided as a people. But with

people like Mable Elmore, Narima dela Cruz and Gabby Kalaw paving political way, we may one day be united and a community to contend with. n

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NOVEMBER 16-30, 2012

COMMUNITYNEWS

CANADA TO REVIEW FOREIGN WORKER PROGRAM

CANADA EYES MORE FOREIGN STUDENTS FOR IMMIGRATION

O

TTAWA --- The Harper government says it is reviewing the controversial Temporary Foreign Worker program following its investigation of the hiring of 201 Chinese nationals for a northeast B.C. coal project.

“Our Government believes that Canadians must always have first crack at job opportunities in Canada,” Human Resources Minister Diane Finley said in a statement. “We are not satisfied with what we have learned about the process that led to permission for hundreds of foreign workers to gain jobs at the Dehua Mines subsidiary in B.C.” She said the government isn’t satisfied that «sufficient efforts» were made to recruit Canadians for the jobs. Finley also noted concern about an advertisement which indicated a Chinese language requirement.

“It is clear to our Government that there are some problems with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. We take these very seriously, and are currently reviewing the program.”

She also made reference to a lawsuit filed by two B.C. unions, seeking a Federal Court of Canada injunction to block the hiring of the 201 workers pending judicial review.

“Litigation could impede (the review) and lead to court battles rather than a genuine fix,” she said.

Finley added that the government will attempt to “avoid unintended harm” to Canadians employed at the mines.

The statement didn’t say if the 201 work permits had been rescinded. More than a dozen of the 201 workers are already in the camp and were reported to have begun rudimentary English lessons.

The controversy erupted last month after The Vancouver Sun disclosed that Ottawa had approved work permits for 201 Chinese workers to start a bulk sampling operation at the Murray River project, being operated by HD Mining International Ltd., a Chinese firm, and Canadian Dehua International Mines Group Inc., a company founded by China-born Vancouver businessman Naishun Liu. That project is one of four being promoted by a consortium of Chinese companies working with Canadian Dehua. In total, according to an official, between 1,600 to just under 2,000 Chinese nationals could find full-time work in four projects in coming years.

However, the companies have to apply for permits from the federal government, and must show that the temporary workers aren’t taking jobs that could be filled by Canadians. They must also offer a competitive wage.

The Murray River project isn’t expected to be in full production until 2015, and the other projects are at less advanced stages.

The companies have also committed to train Canadians to eventually replace the Chinese workers over a 10-year period.

The TFW program last year brought in an all-time high of 190,842 applicants - a 56-percent increase over the 122,368 total the year before the Conservatives took power in January of 2006.

Combined with foreigners already in Canada under the TFW program, there were 446,847 foreigners working in Canada at the end of 2011 under a «temporary» status - roughly double the 224,051 total for 2005.

That compares with the annual inflow of immigrants under the traditional family class, economic and refugee categories, which totaled 248,748 last year, down just over five percent from the 262,242 total in 2005.

In B.C. the number of TFW permits totaled 46,378 in 2011, compared to 27,914 in 2005. B.C. is also getting a disproportionate share of TFWs, with B.C.’s share amounting to almost one-quarter of the Canadian total (24.3 per cent) for a province with just over 13 percent of Canada’s population. (The Vancouver Sun) n

Canada is targetting young, bright foreign students to fill the population shortfall.

I

MMIGRATION Minister Jason Kenney has announced that he wants to admit more foreign students currently studying in Canada as permanent residents and potential citizens, though he also plans to maintain Canada’s overall immigration level at the same tally that’s been in place since 2007 — between 240,000 to 265,000 people.

In a press conference last Oct. 31, Kenney said he was expanding the number of admissions under the Canadian Experience Class, which aims to recruit and retain international students who have studied and graduated in Canada as well as temporary foreign workers who speak one of Canada’s official languages and already have Canadian work experience.

Up to 10,000 permanent residents will be accepted next year in the Canada Experience Class, up from 7,000 in 2012 and 2,500 in 2009.

Last September, Kenney’s department marked its 20,000th immigrant under this class, after five years in existence. Admitting up to 10,000 in a single year represents a big jump.

The minister’s annual immigration plan must be tabled in Parliament each year by Nov.1. It sets overall targets for how many newcomers will be issued visas to be admitted to Canada from abroad, as well as how many students and temporary foreign workers already in Canada will be allowed to stay.

Pointing at the students behind him, Kenney said, “These are the kind of bright young people we are trying to recruit.”

In the past, Kenney said, these kinds of students would be told to leave the country and apply

for residency which could take up to eight years.

Kenney said that immigration is a tool to address the problems of Canada’s aging population and shortage of certain types of skilled workers. “But we must do a better job of selecting those who can succeed quickly, who can integrate quickly, who can find and keep good employment, who can start successful businesses and add to Canada’s prosperity.”

“The data tells us [what to do],” continued Kenney. “The reforms we’re making are based on evidence, on research and on data that tells us that the immigrants who do better over their lifetimes in Canada are those with a higher level of language proficiency in Canada and those with Canadian degrees and diplomas.”

Kenney said he was under pressure from some provinces and from some interest groups to increase immigration levels. He accused the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) of wanting immigration numbers to rise to half a million newcomers a year. But, Kenney said, he was very aware of polls suggesting that Canadians view immigration less favourably than in the past, partially because, he thinks, the unemployment level of immigrants is 14 percent.

The NDP immigration critic Jinny Sims said she was disappointed that the government was cutting back on

the family reunification that allows immigrants to sponsor their parents and grandparent.

“This is a government that talks about families, and the importance of families. And yet once again it has abandoned the hundreds of thousands Canadian citizens by not increasing the numbers under the family reunification class,” said Sims.

Kenney said that his department is actually increasing the numbers for family reunification, especially for immigrants’ parents, going from 17,000 a year to 25,000 a year. But he added that Canada cannot admit what he called “unlimited numbers of seniors.”

Sims also accused the government of being obsessed with temporary foreign employees, such as mining workers, and said that companies, permitted to pay temporary workers lower wages, are actively recruiting them from overseas.

Kenney said that he was disturbed at the number of temporary workers who are often in jobs that can’t be filled by Canadians, which he found “bizarre.” But he added this was only a “last resort” for companies, and that his government is careful not to do anything that would stall economic growth.

“We are rebuilding our economic immigration programs to get higher levels of employment, higher levels of income, more immigrants realizing their potential contributing at their skill level, rather than coming to Canada and being stuck in survival jobs and being underemployed,” he said. n

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COMMUNITYNEWS

SURVEY SHOWS DECLINING SUPPORT FOR IMMIGRATION O TTAWA - Canadian hearts are hardening slightly towards the country’s immigrants, particularly when it comes to their impact on the economy, an internal government survey suggests.

The latest results of the Citizenship and Immigration tracking survey — conducted every year since 1996 to gauge public opinion on immigration — suggest that national attitudes towards both the number and the value of Canadian immigrants are shifting.

The 2012 survey, obtained under access to information laws, found the number of Canadian respondents who said they felt immigration was having a positive effect on the economy was 56 per cent — a decline of 10 percentage points from the 2010 survey.

The number of respondents who said they believe immigration has a positive impact on Canadian culture came in at 40 percent, a decline of between 16 to 18 percent from 2010 levels.

“Findings from the 2012 tracking study suggest that attitudes towards immigration levels and the impact of immigration are somewhat tightening up,” says an analysis of the results done by the department.

The survey itself was carried out in two separate sessions in February by a company called Corporate Research Associates.

The first session involved 1,500 respondents and carried a margin of error of plus or minus 2.5 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Canada’s annual target number for new immigrants has been set at 250,000 for the last few years and is unlikely to change much.

The second session, with 1,200 people, is considered accurate to within plus or minus 2.8 percentage points, 19 times out of 20.

Immigration Minister Jason Kenney is set to release targets for the number of immigrants Canada will accept next year. Kenney said he takes the results of the government’s internal tracking polls seriously.

“I keep a very close eye on public opinion with respect to immigration,” Kenney said in an interview.

“We want to avoid the disconnect between popular opinion and policy on immigration that we’ve seen in Western Europe.”

Support for current immigration levels has hovered around 50 percent since 2004, the survey suggests. When respondents weren’t aware of the actual number of immigrants being allowed into the country, they felt the levels were about right.

Once informed of the g ove r n m e n t ’ s target figures, however, opinions changed.

“When informed of the actual number of immigrants to Canada, between nine percent and 14

percent of Canadians shift from the ‘right amount’ to ‘too many,’” the survey found.

Canada’s annual target number for new immigrants has been set at 250,000 for the last few years and is unlikely to change much, despite pressure from labour groups.

During public consultations on immigration levels, for instance, the St. John’s Board of Trade begged for more people to be let in.

“The federal government must act on this most grave challenge to economic growth and prosperity,” the board’s submission said.

“We would encourage government to place employer needs at the centre of decision making about immigration policy and levels. Labour shortages in Newfoundland and Labrador are unique, acute and immediate.”

A recent analysis by TD Bank suggested that just to offset the impact of an aging population, Canada’s annual immigration numbers need to rise to at least 350,000 after 2016.

But there are other issues at play, the bank said.

“The more pressing concern

is the poor economic outcomes of newcomers to Canada,” the analysis said.

“Much effort has been made by the federal and provincial governments to improve this situation and until these reforms bear fruit, it is likely counterproductive to raise the current 250,000 target.”

It’s the economic outcomes that partially drive public opinion about the value of immigration to the economy, Kenney said.

“The rate of unemployment and underemployment amongst immigrants is too high,” he said.

“We’re bringing a lot of newcomers here only to face unemployment or underemployment in an economy with skills shortages which doesn’t make much sense.”

Since 2008, the Conservatives have carried out major reforms to immigration policy, eradicating backlogs, overhauling the federal skilled worker program and changing the refugee system, among others.

This has been accompanied by a public campaign against those the government feels are abusing the system via human smuggling, crooked consultants or marriage fraud.

Kenney said it’s about gradually repairing a broken system.

“Our efforts to reinforce the integrity of the immigration system will, in the long run, increase public support for legal immigration and well-managed refugee protection,” Kenney said.

But critics have said the consequences of that campaign are a backlash against immigration.

“Canada’s ability to successfully maintain and increase immigration levels depends in part on the level of public support. The federal government, in turn, plays an important leadership role in ensuring that Canadians support the immigration and refugee resettlement programs,” said a submission by Canadian Council on Refugees to the consultations on immigration levels.

“The government must promote positive newcomer contributions and avoid discourse that feeds misconceptions and prejudice against immigrants and refugees.”

The survey analysis suggested the government needs to continue marketing efforts.

“Communications on immigration should continue to accentuate the positive impact of immigration on the economy and Canada’s labour market needs vis-a-vis the need for skilled immigrants,” it said. “...Notwithstanding the fact that perceptions expressed in this survey may not be based on concrete knowledge or experience, they will continue to drive public acceptance of immigrants and immigration policy.” (The Canadian Press) n

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price if they’ve got room to spare. If you’re traveling in a big group, all the better -- everything, especially room and board, is cheaper when shared.

For absolutely nothing at all, walk the length of White Beach and people-watch.

Where to eat

BROKE IN BORACAY

By amanda lago

OME to a stretch of high-end resorts and aw a r d - w i n ning hotels, Boracay Island is not exactly known for being a budget-friendly destination -- after all, who bothers about money when you’re in hedonistic heaven?

Water sports and island-hopping during the day, beachfront massages at sunset, cocktails at night all the way until sunrise -- this is the ideal Bora program. Of course, it doesn’t come without a hefty price tag.

But a small budget doesn’t have to come in the way of enjoying the vacation hotspot, especially during the off-peak season (June to early October) when the prices of everything from airfare to accommodations are lower.

Getting there Promo fares are aplenty when it’s off-peak, so a couple of months before your trip, keep an eye out for seat sales from budget airlines like Cebu Pacific, SEAir, Zest Air or Airphil Express, which offer two Boracay-bound flights: to Kalibo, roughly two hours and 15 minutes away from

The best thing about Boracay is, no budget hardly means no fun. Sure, you may have to do without island-hopping, cliffdiving, paraw sailing, or kiteboarding which all cost a pretty penny. But on this bustling island, there’s plenty else to do even for those who don’t have plenty of money.

Looking for budget meals? When there’s nowhere else to go, there’s always Andok’s. the island itself by shuttle and banca; or Caticlan, which is only one banca ride away from Boracay’s white shores. Through the seat sales, you can even score a roundtrip ticket to Caticlan for less than P1,000 if you are so fortunate.

For those who have the luxury of time (14 to 16 hours to be exact), you could also opt to travel to the island by sea through the 2Go Travel Ferries, which sail from Batangas to the Caticlan Jetty Port and back for a little over P900.

Where to stay Whether you’re staying on White Beach, the island’s main tourist strip,

Or watch the sky turn pink and people fade into silhouettes as the sun sets. or Bulabog beach on the other side, which is popular among kite surfers and wakeboarders, there are many cheap accommodations, if you know where to look.

The northern-most area of White Beach is Station 1, which has the widest shore, the finest sand and more expensive rooms, though relatively cheap beachfront accommodations are still available here.

The cheaper accommodations are to be found at Station 3, the less commercial area of White Beach,

with rooms going for as low as P1,000 a night or even cheaper for those who are willing to forego the comforts of air-conditioning. At Station 3, for instance, fan rooms can go for as low as P500 a night.

Meanwhile, along Bulabog beach, also a popular windsurfing destination, fan rooms good for two can go as low as P660.

Book a room in advance and feel free to work your tawad charms on the hotel managers/owners, who are likely willing to give you the best

No one will judge you if you make baon some canned goods and cup noodles from home, or else stock up on them at the nearest grocery store. Food can be expensive on the White Beach strip, though there are a few exceptions.

Smoke, at D’Mall for instance, offers filling meals like inihaw na pusit with rice for only P100. Big Mama’s at Station 1 also offers meals like inihaw na liempo with rice for P95, and house specialties like pork adobo with rice for P80.

Of course, there’s always Andok’s, which serves their famous Porkcharap and Dokito Frito for less than P60, and the eternal Choriburger, which you can get at the sidewalk grill stands for around P40, sold alongside the less-famous-but-certainly-just-as-yummyespecially-if-you’re-Boracay-drunk grilled hotdogs (also P40) and barbecued isaw (P10 per stick).

What to do

The best thing about Boracay is, no budget hardly means no fun.

Sure, you may have to do without island-hopping, cliff-diving, paraw sailing, or kiteboarding which all cost a pretty penny. But on this bustling island, there’s plenty else to do even for those who don’t have plenty of money.

For P299 (off-season), you can enjoy a beachfront massage.

For P50, you can climb D’Wall at D’Mall. For P35, you can shoot as many baskets as you can at the Boracay Showdown. But please, for your own sake, no matter how cheap it is, do not let them cornrow your hair.

For absolutely nothing at all, walk the length of White Beach and people-watch, lay out your sarong and fall asleep under the sun or finally finish that novel. Jump into the water and swim to famed Willy’s Rock, let your body ride the waves, share secrets with your “bestest” friends as you float in the water. Take cheesy jumping shots, get sand in your hair, join a Frisbee game and make new friends while you’re at it.

Watch the sky turn pink and people fade into silhouettes as the sun sets, be reminded that life is good, and realize that when people say that the best things in life are free, this is exactly what they mean.

(GMA News) n

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BSP URGED TO TEMPER PESO GAINS

Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and President Aquino at Malacañang Palace

PH IS ‘EMERGING ASIAN TIGER,’ SAYS HARPER V ISITING Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper sees the Philippines as “an emerging Asian tiger,” agreeing with the bullish outlook on the country of political and business leaders from many other parts of the world.

To demonstrate Canada’s confidence in the Philippine economy, Harper pledged to increase Canadian investment in the country during his meeting with President Aquino in Malacañang on Nov. 10.

Bilateral trade between Canada and the Philippines amounts to US$1.5 billion.

Mr. Aquino and Harper agreed to cooperate on defense and trade, and committed to people-to-people exchanges between the Philippines and Canada.

At a joint news conference, Mr. Aquino and Harper announced that the Philippine Department of National Defense and the state-run Canadian Commercial Corp. had signed a deal to help Manila buy military equipment to defend its territory.

President Aquino said the deal would help the Philippines build up its defense and security capabilities. He declined to elaborate.

But Harper said the deal would “enable the Philippines to acquire the equipment and expertise it

needs to fulfill the country’s defense and security agenda.”

Under the deal, Philippine purchases of equipment and expertise from Canada’s C$12.6 billion (US$12.6 billion) defense industry are guaranteed by the Ottawa government, according to a Canadian government statement.

Mr. Aquino and Harper discussed the progress in the Aquino administration’s good government program and the gains in the peace process, particularly the signing of framework agreement for peace with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

At the news conference, Mr. Aquino and Harper did not cite specific amounts for Canadian investment, but Harper described the Philippines as an “important economic partner” and an “emerging Asian tiger.”

Mr. Aquino said the Philippines was open for business under a new management, and that he saw the visit of Harper as a “recognition of the change of atmosphere in the

Philippines.”

The two leaders witnessed the signing of the defense deal by Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin and Canadian Minister for International Trade and Asia-Pacific Gateway Ed Fast.

The Canadian Commercial Corp. serves as a go-between for Canadian suppliers and foreign governments to transact defense and security contracts.

Harper and his lean delegation arrived in Manila on the night of Nov. 9. Harper, who was accompanied by his wife, flew back to Canada on Nov. 11.

Harper’s visit is the first by the highest Canadian official in 15 years. The last Canadian head of government to visit the Philippines was Prime Minister Jean Chretien, who brought a business delegation to Manila in 1997.

Harper’s delegation included Joseph Oliver, minister for Natural Resources; the first Filipino-Canadian senator Tobias Enverga Jr.; and 10 Filipino-Canadian community leaders.

There are nearly 800,000 Canadians of Filipino descent living and working in Canada. n

THE central bank should consider putting measures to temper the fast appreciation of the peso, a banker said, as the local currency remains greatly affected by a surge in capital inflows to the country.

“There should be other measures done to be able to counteract or at least slow down the fast appreciation of the peso,” Ronald Avante, president of the Philippine Business Bank, said in an interview.

But Avante said that factors why the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas may opt not to do so include foreseen reduction in capital inflows to the country.

“The (BSP) Governor stated before that they don’t want to put something of that sort because that can also dampen the interest of investors coming in,” Avante said.

“It will definitely also cut capital inflows especially for projects the government needs for infrastructure,” he continued.

Avante made the comments after BSP Governor Amando M. Tetangco, Jr. on Tuesday said reducing key policy rates is not enough to address surge in capital inflows. Tetangco has said the central bank will need to be “creative” in order to find what “appropriate tool” is needed.

“We’ve seen how steadily the peso has appreciated despite what is happening globally and I think this will continue given the fundamental reasons for the strength of the peso,” Avante said.

The peso is projected to close at P41.10 against the dollar at the end of the year, the Institute of International Finance said.

In its latest Global Economic Monitor, the IIF added the peso is expected to further appreciate to P41 against the greenback at the end of next year.

The peso closed at P41.240 against the dollar on Nov. 5, stronger than its P43.84 finish against the greenback in end-2011.

The local currency so far strengthened by 6.5% this year, even reaching a four-year high of P41.175 against the dollar last month.

IIF noted the peso continues to be one of Asia’s strongest currencies despite global uncertainties due to continuous remittances from overseas Filipinos and monetary easing implemented in developed countries. n

COMELEC CAN’T GUARANTEE FAIR ELECTIONS IN 2013

THOUGH it can be assured that the counting of votes in next year’s polls will be fast and fraud-free just like in 2010, it will be hard to guarantee that there will be fair elections in 2013 due to vote-buying and threats, according to Commission on Elections (Comelec) chairman Sixto Brillantes.

“Hindi na ho magkakadayaan, siguradong di magkakadayaan.

Wala naman hong nangyari noong 2010 eh. Ngayon ho eh mas maganda pa ng konti dahil sa improvements natin. So palagay ko ho, ayos lang, wala ho sigurong mangyayaring dayaan,» Brillantes said on in a radio interview.

The Comelec chief said that preparations for the upcoming 2013 midterm elections were going smoothly and that the Comelec would have no budget problems.

Also, the precinct count optical scan machines are all geared up for the polls and the bidding for all materials such as papers and ballot boxes to be used during the elections are being carried out, according to Brillantes.

Meanwhile, Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Manuel Roxas met with Philippine National Police directorial staff chief Director Alan Purisima, the leader of Task Force S.A.F.E. (Secured And Fair Elections) and its members to discuss security plans for next year’s elections.

Authorities are now fine-tuning steps against private armed groups, owners of loose firearms, as well as gun owners with expired licenses.

The police are also identifying possible election hotspots where poll-related violence is expected to occur. n

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NEWSROUND-UP

US TOXIC WASTE DUMPED IN SUBIC THE Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority (SBMA) is investigating a US Navy contractor for allegedly dumping hazardous wastes on Subic Bay last month.

SBMA records showed that wastes dumped by the tanker MT Glenn Guardian were collected from American ships that joined the recently concluded joint military exercises in the country.

The tanker is one of the vessels owned by Glenn Defense Marine Asia, a Malaysian company operating in several countries which services American ships in the Philippines.

The allegations of waste dumping in Subic Bay have alarmed locators and environmental organizations in the free port.

Charo Simons, spokesperson of Subic Bay Freeport Chamber for Health and Environment Conservation, said the waste dumping was “deeply troubling to all of us who want to protect the environment in and around the Subic Bay area.”

“This company has a lot of explaining to do, and the SBMA has a

duty to go after this company’s officials if they have endangered not only the environment but also everybody who lives and works here,” Simons said.

On Oct. 15, SBMA Ecology Center personnel inspected Glenn Guardian, then docked at the Naval Supply Depot area here due to a “hazard call” from another free port locator.

A copy of the SBMA spot report showed that the tanker was carrying some 189,500 liters of domestic waste and about 760 liters of bilge water (a combination of water, oil and grease), all of which were hauled from Emory Land, a US Navy ship.

On Oct. 16, a team from the Philippine Coast Guard’s marine pollution division and SBMA Ecology Center personnel boarded Glenn Guardian and another vessel, MT Glenn Enterprise, to take water samples and see whether the liquid waste was safe to be dumped into the sea.

But SBMA sources said Edilberto Acedilla, captain of Glenn Guard-

ABSENTEE VOTERS JUST SHORT OF 1 MILLION

VERY close, but not quite.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said that it will not be able to reach its target of registering 1 million Overseas Absentee Voters (OAVs) for the May 2013 elections.

Nevertheless, Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Special and Ocean Concerns and Chairman of the Overseas Absentee Voting Secretariat (OAVS) Jose Brillantes is satisfied with the turnout, which will be more than 960,000 once the DFA collects all the reports from embassies and consulates.

Brillantes underscored that the figure -- not yet final -- will surpass the total number of voters who registered for the 2010 polls, while the number of new registrants topped its previous record dating from 2004. (Read: More Filipino voters from overseas register for 2013 polls) «This time there was really a concerted effort on the part of our posts to really go out and get the Filipinos to register,» in an interview with reporters.

Brillantes explained that the DFA «used all kinds of connections with the media, Filipino communities and associations» to disseminate the message that

OAVs are «taking part in a very important political exercise» in the upcoming elections.

Before the Commission on Elections (Comelec) deadline for absentee registration on October 31, the OAVS requested an extension so that more overseas Filipinos could vote.

However, Comelec denied the request, arguing that no extension was allowed for local voters.

«They did not want to show any favor for overseas voters,» said Jose Brillantes, who is incidentally the brother of Comelec Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr. The DFA undersecretary explained that «they needed at least 150 days before the election to put up a final list. With an extension, they would not have had enough time.»

Brillantes also mentioned how social media has helped them almost reach their goal.

«Social media has a far more expansive reach than normal media, especially because of the popularity and the availability to many more people. We tried to get in touch with all our assets and we told all of them to use social media,» he said, without giving figures. n

The MT Glenn Guardian docked at Alava Pier on Subic Bay. ian, told the team that the liquid wastes had been dumped at least 37 kilometers (20 nautical miles) from Subic Bay. An SBMA official involved in the investigation said the Coast Guard had told Acedilla that a permit was necessary since the tankers were dumping water in Philippine territory.

The official, who asked not to be named because of lack of authority to speak to the media, said the Coast Guard and the SBMA Ecology Center had not issued permits to Glenn Defense Marine Asia for the dumping.

Test results of the water samples conducted by Subic Water and Sewerage Co., the firm contracted by the SBMA to test water samples taken from the vessels, showed that the

level of toxicity of the liquid wastes exceeded the norm and went beyond levels set by international marine pollution conventions.

SBMA Chairman Roberto Garcia said the results “confirmed that [Glenn Defense Marine Asia] did not treat the waste, which it should have.”

Garcia added that although the Glenn Guardian captain claimed that the wastes were dumped in the West Philippine Sea, “they should have treated these first because that contained oily waste.”

Garcia said the SBMA Ecology Center had issued a “show cause” letter to Glenn Defense Marine Asia, asking the company to explain the waste dumping that was supposedly done without proper permits.

The company, through its law-

yers, sent the SBMA a reply on Nov. 6 and said the Presidential Commission on the Visiting Forces Agreement, not the government agency administering this free port, has jurisdiction over it.

Glenn Defense Marine Asia has been servicing vessels in Subic Bay since 2009, according to records.

This year alone, 37 US Navy ships were serviced by the company and part of its service is to collect tons of liquid wastes from these ships.

In a statement, Cynthia Cook, deputy press attaché of the US Embassy in Manila, said: “We are aware of the allegations against Glenn Defense Marine Philippines, a contractor for the US Navy in the Philippines, and we understand there is an ongoing investigation by the Subic Bay Freeport authorities.” n

10-M NEW VOTERS FROM AMENDED ABSENTEE VOTING LAW

Senator Pimentel ONCE enacted into law the amended Overseas Absentee Voting Act would generate 10 million more overseas voters, Senator Aquilino «Koko» Pimentel said.

“I am optimistic that ten times a million (or 10 million) OAV votes may be possible in 2016 and beyond with the enactment of Senate Bill 3312,” said Pimentel in his spon-

sorship speech of the measure.

Both versions of Amended OAV Act by the Senate and the House of Representatives have mandated the Commission on Elections to put in place a system that would allow online registration and voting for all of the estimated 13 million overseas Filipinos.

“In 2016, when Filipinos come together as one nation to decide on the next administration, one of our biggest legacies to voters around the world is an OAV law that offers flexibility in terms of new technologies,” said Pimentel.

The Amended OAV Act also dropped Section 5d of the original law which had stopped many Filipino immigrants and permanent residents in the US and Canada from voting in past Philippine national elections since the passage of the OAV Act in 2003.

The provision that was removed required immigrants and permanent residents to execute an affidavit stating that they shall come back to the Philippines within three years from approval of their registration as Philippine voters.

Pimentel chairs the Senate Electoral Reforms and People’s Participation Committee which approved the bill under Committee Report 446 following several public hearings attended by all stakeholders, including OFWs and Filipino immigrants.

He added that the Amended OAV also removes documentary requirements “that keep our citizens at arm’s length from the ballot box, and one that seeks to create a permanent mechanism to promote a more efficient and effective electoral process for Filipinos overseas.” n

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DRILON PROPOSES P40-B SIN TAX BILL

Rising oil prices is top priority

NEW ENERGY CHIEF TO FOCUS ON FUEL PRICES

ON his first day in office, new Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla said on Nov. 11 that he will focus on consumer-related issues, including fuel prices, electricity rates and the Mindanao power shortage.

Petilla also said that even with a new head, the department will respect existing contracts to ensure the stability of its policies.

“Unless there are issues on the contracts, there are complaints and issues, I intend to actually carry them out, let them be, especially because there are more contracts due for processing. I’d rather focus on those that have not been approved,” he said.

The former Leyte governor replaced Jose Rene Almendras in the position, who has been named Secretary to the Cabinet.

Petilla said that the DoE will continue to monitor oil prices to see if they reflect global oil price movement. He also pushed for an

antitrust law “to make sure that there is no connivance” among the oil players.

“We should also have a law that prevents oil companies from having some sort of...cartel,” he said.

Petilla said he will also study how to bring down the energy sector’s P1-trillion debt, including reviewing assets lined up for privatization such as the Unified Leyte geothermal power facilities contract.

“I will review it. The last thing we want to do is delay the privatization if it’s not going to cause and arm and a leg. The problem…if we want to make generation charges very low, if it means being subsidized by the government and that’s another story. That can be a problem. That can be an injustice for the rest of the country because only one province will be subsidized,” he said. n

CIVIL society and health advocates have expressed support for Senator Franklin Drilon’s version of the sin tax bill.

“We strongly support the measure that Senator Drilon has crafted,” said Filomeno Sta. Ana III, coordinator of Action for Economic Reforms.

“It contains the essential reforms, especially the life-saving measures that are found in the other good bills, like the Miriam Santiago bill and the Lacson Bill.

It is likewise a significant improvement of the amended Abaya bill.

Drilon’s amendments for cigarettes include a reduction to two tiers, P12 for low-priced and P28.30 for medium and high-priced brands.

Tax rates would be unitary at P32 by 2016 with a subsequent 5 percent increase every year effective January 2017.

On the other hand, amendments for distilled spirits include a combination of P30 and 30 percent of the net retail price (NRP) by 2013. Fermented liquor would be classified into two tiers based on different NRPs. Sta. Ana said Drilon’s version had similarities to the Lower House version of the bill but he pointed out that it also “adopted features of Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago’s bill.”

He said other amendments can include a movement towards a unitary tax rate for beer, safety nets for workers and a review mechanism to ensure that the sin tax rates will continue serving health and revenue objectives and will be in compliance with international commitments, such as the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control.

Health Secretary Enrique Ona earlier said that while Drilons’ version of the sin tax bill met the minimum revenue target of government, the Department of Health would like the Senate to pass a bill that would raise P60 billion in “sin” taxes.

Ona said the Drilon version, expected to raise P40 billion in reve-

US ENVOY SAYS OBAMA MIGHT REVIVE ANTI-OUTSOURCING

US Ambassador Harry Thomas Jr. has hinted that reelected US President Barack Obama might revive efforts to bring back to the US jobs outsourced to countries such as the Philippines.

Thomas dropped the hint at a press briefing during which he was asked about the «Bring Jobs Home Act,» a key Democratic initiative, which was defeated in the US Senate in July.

The measure sought to grant companies a 20 percent tax break to cover the costs of moving back to the US. “There was a bill in the Congress,

that bill did not pass,” Thomas acknowledged, then added, “But President Obama’s job is the same as President Aquino’s job, to provide job for the Americans, just as President Aquino’s job is to provide jobs to the Filipinos.”

Obama’s reelection has raised apprehensions among BPO companies in the country.

Department of Labor and Employment spokesman Nicon Fameronag refused to comment on the possibility of BPO firms pulling out of the country, saying it would be better to wait for Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz, who is in Taiwan,

to return.

The BPO industry, which encompasses contact center services; back offices; medical, legal and other data transcription; animation; software development; engineering design; and digital content has been enjoying a boom.

This year, the BPO Association of the Philippines sees the industry generating $13 billion in revenues on a labor force of 764,000.

The industry is also projected to produce $27 billion in revenues and directly engage some 1.3 million Filipino workers by 2016. n

nues, met the “floor” estimate that government experts said would be enough to reduce the number of smokers in the country while providing funds for the healthcare coverage of 5.6 million more “very poor” Filipino families.

Ona said that the sin tax bill would be important in making sure that future administrations would no longer have to seek funding from Congress every year for the health care coverage of the “poorest of our people.”

He pointed out that the bill’s passage would lead to an increase in cigarette prices to discourage the youth from taking up the smoking habit.

Drilon’s proposal is about three times more than the sin tax bill Sen. Ralph Recto proposed in a Senate ways and means committee report.

In his sponsorship speech, Drilon said his version of the sin tax bill mirror’s a “critical health reform measure” while Recto’s bill was a “fiscal reform package.”

“The relevance of this measure is that it is the single-most important health reform measure in the past decade, which will impact 100 million Filipinos in the foreseeable future,” Drilon added.

Recto endorsed a sin tax bill that would yield at least P15 billion in additional revenues, or half of the P31.35 billion revenue indicated in the version approved by the House of Representatives, and a fourth of the Finance Department’s P60billion target from the sin tax bill. n

CAYETANO PUSHES VOTE ON RH BILL

THE lead sponsor in the Senate of the controversial Reproductive Health (RH) bill is out to steer the upper chamber into putting to a vote the measure, regardless of whether there’s enough numbers to seal its approval.

Apparently frustrated with the tedious debates and reticence of most of her colleagues on the bill, Sen. Pia Cayetano yesterday said she’s willing to challenge every single member of the Senate to vote for the measure, adding it will be an embarrassment to the Filipino people to say they’re not ready to decide on its fate, after a year of deliberations on the floor.

“All it requires is for me to take the floor and move to close (the debates) and put this to a vote. We’ve done our part. We’ve presented the whole case, I will just have to present my committee amendments and after that, we vote. What is so difficult about that? We vote.”

The chairman of the Senate committee on health and demography reacted strongly to the statements given by Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile during an interview after the morning plenary session, on the bill going through a rough sailing this year and with no clear assurance that they have have it approved eventually.

This, despite Enrile mentioning in his speech a continuing discussion on what he described as one of the “rare measures in the Senate that has been a magnet of philosophical musings and emotional sentiments from various sectors.”

“We might have difficulty (in having it approved this year). There are still a number (of senators) out to interpellate about the bill in the plenary,” Enrile was quoted as saying.

Asked about the possibility of the bill seeing its passage this year, Enrile replied, “I don’t know. It depends. We will leave it to the Senate.”

Cayetano lamented the fact that since last year, she has been debating the floor every session day the bill and has been ready to entertain questions from her colleagues.

Sen. Francis ‘Chiz’ Escudero supported the stand of Cayetano that the Senate should vote on RH bill.

“Perhaps it is the proper time to decide on it, again one way or the other, so that it will not be in the Senate forever,” Escudero said.

The senator said she does not have any idea whether Malacañang is backing up the passage of the bill.

But President Aquino asked Congress to pass the controversial reproductive health in his third State of the Nation Address. n

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SOTTO FACES ETHICS COMPLAINT FOR PLAGIARISM

A complaint against Senate Majority Floor Leader Vicente Sotto III was filed on Nov. 13 by bloggers and a group of professors before the Senate ethics committee regarding the alleged plagiarism he committed.

Sotto had allegedly used parts of a blog post of US blogger Sarah Pope without attribution in his speech during the controversial Reproductive Health Bill debates.

He had also been accused of using a quote from the late US Senator Robert Kennedy which he

translated into Tagalog in another speech.

Kerry Kennedy, daughter of Senator Kennedy, demanded that Sotto make a public apology.

Sotto, when asked by reporters about the demand, said, “What for?”

Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile said in a separate interview: “[Senators] cannot be questioned anywhere for what we say inside this chamber. Not because we are a special breed but because that is the immunity given by the sovereign

people so that we can speak on any subject under the sun.”

Professors from the University of the Philippines, Ateneo De Manila University, and the De La Salle University, joined forces in the filing of the complaint.

Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, chairman of the ethics committee, said in another interview Monday that he was already in the process of finalizing the rules to ensure a fair hearing.

“It … is the prerogative of the citizens to file a complaint against a senator. As long as it falls within the rules of the ethics committee then we will hear it,” Cayetano said.

“Now, whether or not a particular act constitutes a violation or unethical behavior will have to fall under the definitions according to the rules and the consensus of the members. But I can assure everyone of a fair hearing with all of these issues at hand,” he said. n

PHILEX SPILL IS BIGGEST MINING DISASTER

Families of victims cry for justice.

PALACE DISMAYED BY SC RULING ON MAGUINDANAO CASE MALACAñANG expressed disappointment over the Supreme Court ban on the live coverage of the Maguindanao massacre trial and hoped the high court would “revisit” this decision.

“Remember that the President asked for a live trial and certainly we would like the Maguindanao massacre trial to be covered live.

The decision in the Supreme Court, that’s a little restrictive,” presidential spokesperson Edwin Lacierda said in a briefing.

“I hope that they can revisit their decision—even their decision not to cover it live. I don’t know what prompted them to revisit or to change their mind on the live coverage of the Maguindanao massacre,” Lacierda said.

“It is important for us—both the public and media—to be able to know what’s going on in the Maguindanao massacre trial,” he said.

Lacierda repeated President Aquino’s statement that the trial would be a litmus test of the country’s justice system.

Human rights groups have decried the slow prosecution of the masterminds and their henchmen in the massacre of 58 persons, including 33 journalists, in Maguindanao in 2009. The victims were on their way to witness the filing of a certificate of candidacy for a local politician when they were stopped

by some 100 armed men, brutally killed and dumped in a mass grave on a hillside in Ampatuan town.

Leaders of the powerful Ampatuan clan and their followers have been charged in connection with the killings.

Lacierda said Malacañang was hoping that the trial would be done in a “more expeditious (way) without sacrificing due process.” He acknowledged that the judiciary had taken steps to hasten the process.

“For instance, (hearing the case) three times a week already; and the judge, in that case, has been devoted full-time to this trial. My understanding is she has not been given other cases to handle. But, beyond that, I don’t know what steps the Supreme Court or the judiciary is taking to improve the process,” he said.

“With due respect to the Supreme Court, although I still have to look into the justifications and basis of the decision, I’m always against restricting media coverage because remember the Maguindanao massacre is supposed to be the trial of the century in so far as the Philippine justice system is concerned,” Justice Secretary Leila de Lima told reporters Monday.

“It’s not only us that is interested, but the international community as well,” De Lima said.

Told that among the court’s explanation for the new ruling was

the need to protect the rights of the accused, De Lima said that the “remedy should be clear guidelines on how reporting should be done by the media but banning media coverage I think should probably not be (the case).”

On June 14, 2011, the court allowed the live broadcast of the trial by television and radio but subject to certain guidelines of the trial court.

On Oct. 23 this year, however, it reversed itself, explaining the need to protect the rights of the accused as well as the witnesses.

The court resolution was in response to four petitions: The partial motion for reconsideration filed by two relatives of the victims on the guidelines for the coverage which they said constituted prior restraint; Andal Ampatuan Jr.’s motion for reconsideration where he said the live coverage deprived him of his right to due process and equal protection; the consolidated comment of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines, which said Ampatuan did not present new and convincing arguments; and a comment by the Office of the Solicitor General for President Aquino that a live media coverage of the hearings “neither constitutes a barbarous act nor inflicts upon the accused inhuman physical harm or torture that is shocking to the conscience.” n

AFTER months of recurring leakages, the Philex mine spill in Benguet has become the “biggest mining disaster” in the Philippines in terms of volume, but the company is seeking a clean-up option instead of paying the hefty fine of P1 billion, officials said.

Some 20 million metric tons of sediments have flowed into water channels from the Philex tailings pond in Itogon since its drainage tunnel was breached last August, according to a report from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (MGB-DENR).

This is ten times more than the volume of mine tailings that spilled out of the Marcopper mine in 1996 in Marinduque, which dumped some two million metric tons of waste into the Boac River and is still considered the worst mining disaster in terms of toxicity. Residents along the 27kilometer Boac River lost their fishing livelihood and diseases stalked the community after the incident.

“In terms of volume, ito [Philex mine tailings spill] ngayon ‘yung biggest mining disaster in the Philippines,” MGB chief Leo Jasareno told GMA News Online..

Philex spokesperson Atty. Eduardo Aratas affirmed the statement: “Because of the volume [of the leak], it is really the biggest.

But on the toxicity, it is not.”

Mining officials are still studying the toxicity levels of the wastes from the gold and copper mine that were deposited in nearby waterways after heavy monsoon rains led to a serious breach in its drainage tunnel last August 1. About five ‘minor’ recurrences have been reported since then, Jasareno said.

The bureau is set to conduct a socio-environment impact as-

sessment of the tailings pond leak to determine the extent of the damage.

The DENR has slapped a hefty P1-billion fine, almost as much as the mining firm’s taxes last year, on one of the country’s largest producers of gold and copper.

But Philex is reluctant to pay up, arguing that, “forces of nature cannot be prevented 100 percent.”

Aratas asserted, “Ang sinasabi ng management, sige if you fine us tapos na dapat [‘yung responsibility]. Or, if you order us to clean up, then gagawin namin ‘yun.”

The MGB chief is standing pat on the penalty. “Ang contention kasi ng Philex pagka-force majeure hindi sila dapat magbayad ng P1 billion. [Pero] dun sa provision ng Mining Act na kung saan namin hinugot yung parusa… wala namang nakalagay na hindi ka magbabayad kung force majeure,” Jasareno explained.

The penalty for violating other environmental laws – such as the Clean Water Act – will be imposed separately on Philex, Jasareno said. This will cost about P50,000 per day, in addition to a clean-up plan for the rehabilitation of damaged waterways.n

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