January 2014 A issue

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January 2014

Volume 5 - Number 1

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1’400 YOLANDA VICTIMS REMAIN UNBURIED IN TACLOBAN VILLAGE TACLOBAN CITY, Philippines – More than a thousand dead victims of Super Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan) lay unburied Saturday, seven weeks after Eastern Visayas was battered by the Philippines’ deadliest storm, residents living alongside the stench said.

About 1,400 corpses, in sealed black body bags swarming with flies, lay on a muddy open field in San Isidro, a farming village on the outskirts of Tacloban, an AFP reporter saw.

“The stench has taken away our appetite. Even in our sleep, we have to wear face masks,” said local housewife Maritess Pedrosa, who lives in a house about 20 meters from the roadside city government property.

Yolanda killed at least 6,111 people with 1,779 others missing when it struck on November 8, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

This made the storm, which also left 4.4 million people homeless, one of the deadliest natural disasters in Philippine history.

Tacloban and nearby towns were devastated by tsunami-like giant waves that accounted for a majority of the dead.

NDRRMC spokesman Reynaldo Balido said he was unsure if the official death toll already included the cadavers in San Isidro.

Eutiquio Balunan, the local

village chief, said government workers assigned to collect the typhoon dead began trucking them to San Isidro on November 10, where they have been exposed to the tropical heat and heavy seasonal rainshowers.

There, state forensics experts try to identify the corpses, he told AFP. The processed corpses are then turned over to relatives, while those that are unclaimed are tagged and taken to a mass grave at the city

cemetery about three kilometers away.

“Our tally comprises those already the disaster council spokesman told AFP. Balunan said the processing of the cadavers had been suspended over the Christmas weekend as the forensics experts went on holiday.

“We are requesting the city government to please bury the

cadavers because our children and elderly residents are getting sick,” he said. “This place has become a fly factory.”

The cadavers are guarded by eight policemen.

One officer who asked not to be named said they are under orders to prevent the cadavers from being eaten by stray dogs. ■ Agence FrancePresse / December 28, 2013 / 5:55 PM

On Christmas Day, Papal Nuncio celebrates Mass in Tacloban and PPO serenades its people TACLOBAN CITY – The Waray version of the Filipinos’ Christmas anthem “Ang Pasko ay Sumapit”—as sung by the Philippine Philharmonic Orchestra—filled the air inside the Sto. Niño Church in this devastated Leyte capital city on Wednesday morning (December 25), capping the Christmas Day mass celebrated by Papal Nuncio Guiseppe Pinto.

Despite the rain that poured

Papal Nuncio Pinto hands over relief goods after the Christmas Day mass. Photos by Bernard Testa, InterAksyon.com.

Archbishop John Du and Papal Nuncio Giuseppe Pinto are all smiles after the Christmas Day Mass celebration.

steadily even “inside” the church— Sto. Niño’s roof had been damaged by super typhoon Yolanda, which also blew off the dome of the Palo cathedral where the papal nuncio had celebrated mass just hours before, on Christmas Eve—hundreds of Taclobanons attended the Christmas Day Mass. Among them were Mayor Alfred Romualdez, his wife and city councilor Cristina GonzalesRomualdez and Leyte’s First District Rep. Ferdinand Martin Romualdez, the mayor’s cousin.

In his Christmas message, the congressman greeted all his constituents a “malipayong pasko and manigong bagong taon.” He added: “Maski ang bagyong Yolanda ay dumaan sa lalawigan natin, mas

malakas pa ang tiwala natin sa Diyos; yung faith natin mas titibay.

Nagpapasalamat din ako sa papal nuncio Pinto sa pag-celebrate ng Christmas Mass dito sa Tacloban.”

Earlier, the Philippine Philharmonic had conducted an Art Relief Concert last December 14 at the Rizal Park and provided hot meals to evacuees from Tacloban City, which accounted for some 5,000 of the 6,000-plus fatalities from Yolanda (Haiyan).

Meanwhile, the Philippine Philharmonic announced after the mass that it is staging a free concert later on Christmas Day, at 2 p.m. inside the Sto. Niño Church as a Christmas gift to the people. ■ Lottie Salarda / Lifestyle Section, InterAksyon.com / December 26, 2013 / 11:36 AM

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Imports contract as electronics purchases slump at start of 4Q MANILA - Philippine imports fell at the start of the fourth quarter mostly because of weak purchases from abroad of electronic components used in the local assembly of chips for the export market.

In a report, the National Statistics Office (NSO) said imports fell by 8.6 percent to $4.824 billion in October from $5.277 billion in the same month last year.

The NSO blamed the decline on weak imports of the following major commodity groups: cereals and cereal preparations; mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials; industrial machinery and equipment; organic and inorganic chemicals; electronic products; and plastics in primary and non-primary forms.

Last October’s imports figure was the weakest since the 13.7 percent contraction in April last year.

Month-on-month, imports also decreased by 15.5 percent from September’s $5.711 billion.

Last October’s performance brought the 10-month tally to $51.183 billion, or 0.8 percent lower than the $51.621 billion a year ago. Year-to-date growth likewise was lower than the government’s full-year target of 12 percent for 2013.

Electronics, which accounted for 25.9 percent of the total imports, went down by 7.3 percent to $1.247 billion from last year’s $1.346 billion. Month-on-month, electronics imports also went down by 29.3 percent from $1.765 billion in September.

Imports of mineral fuels, lubricants and related materials fell 33.5 percent to $715.21 million in October from $1.076 billion a year ago.

Purchases of transport equipment amounted to $633.49 million, a 53.9 percent year-on-year increase and the highest increment among the country’s top 10 imports.

The People’s Republic of China was the Philippines’ biggest source of imports at $628.95 million, an increase of 5.9 percent from $593.85 million last year.

This was followed by the US at $460.71 million; Japan, $425.70 million; Taiwan, $158.94 million; and Republic of Korea, $338.81 million.

Other major sources of imports for October were Singapore, $293.20 million; Germany, $290.28 million; Thailand, $281.35 million; Indonesia, $279.12 million; and France, $164.89 million. ■ Darwin G. Amojelar / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 1:06 PM

Melco Crown Philippines borrows $340M from shareholder

A unit if Melco Crown (Philippines) Resorts Corp. is borrowing up to $340 million, or roughly 15 billion, from shareholder Melco Crown group of Macau as standby funds for capital spending for its casino project.

In a disclosure to the Philippine Stock Exchange Friday, Melco Crown Philippines said its indirect subsidiary MCE Leisure (Philippines) Corp. signed a loan agreement dated Dec. 23 with MCE (Philippines) Investments Limited.

MCE (Philippines) Investments is a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Macau-based casino and resort developer Melco Crown Entertainment Ltd. Melco Crown Philippines, MCE Holdings (Philippines) Corp. and MCE Holdings No. 2 (Philippines) Corp., meanwhile, provided a guarantee under the loan agreement in favor of the lender.

“The shareholder loan is intended to be a back-up facility arrangement and... will only be utilized... in the unlikely event that the senior notes offering... will not be

completed,” the disclosure read.

Last week, Melco Crown (Philippines) said MCE Leisure (Philippines) Corp. offered senior notes at 5 percent a year to institutional lenders through a private placement on Dec. 19, raising 15 billion.

The notes, due 2019, will be issued before January 31, 2014.

The proceeds from the notes issuance will be used to fund capital spending and pay for debts.

MCE Leisure, SM Investments Corp., Belle Corp. and Premium Leisure Amusement Inc. jointly hold the provisional license issued by state-run Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp for the development of an integrated casino, hotel, retail and entertainment complex.

On Oct. 9, Melco Crown Philippines announced that its $1.3-billion integrated casino resort at Entertainment City, Manila, called “City of Dreams Manila,” will be jointly developed with Belle Corp. and is set to open in the middle of 2014. ■ Danessa Rivera / KBK, GMA News / December 27, 2013 / 8:47 PM

BUSINESS & FINANCE

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Gov’t cuts WESM price ceiling by nearly half MANILA - The tripartite commission tasked to look into the recent surge in Merlaco’s power rates has ordered a reduction of the price ceiling at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

In a joint resolution issued by the Department of Energy (DOE), Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) and the Philippine Electricity Market Corp (PEMC), the tripartite commission nearly halved the price cap from the existing 62 per kilowatthour (kWh) to 32.

“It is understood that this new Offer Price Cap is interim in nature, while the WESM Design Study is on-going. The new and revised Offer Price Cap will be subjected to a public consultation and will be subject to the regular review and adjustments by the WESM Tripartite Committee,” the resolution read.

The reduction in the spot market’s maximum offer price was brought about by the record 3.44/kWh spike in Meralco’s rates this December.

Roughly two-thirds of the rate increase, which the Supreme Court temporarily barred, was attributed to Meralco’s purchases at the WESM. Prices at the sport market shot up when the Malampaya natural gas platform’s maintenance shutdown was accompanied by unscheduled repairs at some major power plants.

The Malampaya fuels three power plants that supply half of Meralco’s requirements.

The shutdown of the natural gas platform and of the other power plants pushed up prices at the WESM as utilities like Meralco sought more power supply from the spot market to meet demand.

The WESM is a trading platform for electricity where utilities may purchase supply not covered by their bilateral contracts with generating companies.

Power suppliers with the lowest price get to fill the utilities’ requirements but the last offer sets the market price that will be paid to them.

The tripartite commission said price offers at the WESM reached 62 per kWh “more often than usual and even during offpeak hours when demand for electricity is low” during the shutdown of the Malampaya and other power plants.

To prevent a similar electricity bill shock, the tripartite commissioned pegged WESM’s maximum price offer based on the 32 per kWh price ceiling in the Interim Mindanao Electricity Market. The latter is a similar electricity trading market that was designed to improve power-starved Mindanao’s demand and supply situation.

WESM’s new price ceiling will be effective not more than 90 days from the issuance of the joint resolution, which will take effect following its publication in at least two newspapers of general circulation.

“For this purpose, PEMC is directed to submit a study on the appropriate Offer Price Cap within 30 days from the issuance of this Joint Resolution,” the resolution said.

PEMC operates the WESM. InterAksyon.com is the online news portal of TV5, which like Meralco is chaired by Manuel V. Pangilinan. ■ Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo / InterAksyon.com / December 28, 2013 / 10:51 PM

NGCP signs up Chinese company to improve power grid MANILA - The National Grid Corp of the Philippines (NGCP) has signed an agreement with a Chinese research firm to help strengthen the Philippines’ power transmission highway.

In a statement, NGCP said it signed a memorandum of understanding with the State Nuclear Electric Power Planning Design and Research Institute (SNPDRI).

The agreement aims to establish strategic cooperation between the two parties in terms of engineering, design and construction of future transmission lines and substation projects in the country.

NGCP is the private monopoly operating the country’s transmission lines, or the power facilities that deliver electricity

produced by power plants to distribution utilities and electric cooperatives. The company is owned by Henry Sy Jr. of the SM group, the Coyuitos, and State Grid Corp of China.

SNPDRI, on the other hand, is a research facility on power transmission and substation design in China.

NGCP president and chief operating officer Sy said the signing of the three-year agreement is a very timely undertaking as the grid operator is rehabilitating transmission facilities in the Visayas that were severely damaged by Typhoon ‘Yolanda’.

“We are hopeful that with our combined technical know-how, NGCP can improve

and strengthen the transmission backbone in the said area ti withstand future calamities of greater magniture and intensity,” he said.

Based on NGCP’s assessment, Yolanda damaged more than 2,000 structures of 34 transmission lines and affected 23 substations in the Visayas. ■ Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 3:19 PM

Tweaks in WESM rules proposed to avoid electricity bill shock MANILA - The government is mulling over changes to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market’s (WESM) rules to prevent a repeat of the recent spike in power rates.

Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla last night told reporter that among the proposed changes are a lower price cap and authority for the Department of Energy (DOE) chief to set prices during times of tight electricity supply.

“It is a learning experience that we have to tweak rules. Rules are dynamic, they always change to make it more acceptable to the public,” he said.

Distributors like Manila Electric Co (Meralco) buy additional supply from WESM whenever demand is higher than what the utility contracted from power plant operators. WESM is a trading platform where power plant operators sell excess output.

Under WESM rules, power suppliers with the lowest price offer gets first dibs on electricity purchases. However, the price paid is based on the last offer made to meet the demand. Be that as it may, power plant operators are barred from pricing their supply above 62 per kWh at the WESM.

The bulk of Meralco’s record 3.44 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) increase in the generation charge this month stemmed from purchases in the spot market. The utility bought more electricity from the WESM after maintenance and repair works on its contracted power plants cut down its supply.

The Supreme Court has since barred Meralco from imposing the record increase in rates this month even after the utility proposed to stagger collection of the same.

Petilla said the DOE has proposed to lower the price cap to 32 per kWh, but the final amount would depend on the findings of a tripartite commission

composed of the department, the Energy Regulatory Commission and Philippine Electricity Market Corp (PEMC), which operates WESM. The tripartite body is investigating an alleged collusion among power suppliers to jack up rates at the WESM amid the tight supply brought about by the confluence of a scheduled maintenance of the Malampaya natural gas platform and unscheduled repairs by some power plant operators.

The Malampaya supplies 40 percent of the Luzon grid’s electricity requirements.

Besides the price ceiling, Petilla said DOE is proposing that the department chief be given the authority to cap prices based on the previous 30-day trading range whenever the grid is tight on supply.

He said such market intervention is already included in WESM’s rules but only applies when demand exceeds supply, and the grid is forced to run reserves or back-up power generation.

“But last spike hindi lumagpas demand sa supply; reserves were not used,” Petilla said. ■ Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo

/ InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 2:55 PM

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NEWS

PH stock market ends volatile 2013 with a marginal gain MANILA – The Philippine composite index squeezed out a slim gain for 2013, surviving a turbulent year that allowed the stock market to extend its rally for the fifth straight year.

At the Philippine Stock Exchange, the benchmark index closed 2013 with a gain of 1.33 percent after the local barometer inched up 11.51 points or 0.20 percent to finish at 5,889.83 on Friday.

The service sector advanced 0.75 percent to lead the market higher.

Advancers edged out decliners, 91 to 70, while 48 issues were unchanged.

Value turnover improved to 6.39 billion as 2.14 billion stocks changed hands.

Most actively traded stocks were Universal Robina, Ayala Land, PLDT, Metrobank and BDO. Top gainers were Synergy Grid, Berjaya Philippines and ATN A, while the biggest losers were Leisure and Resorts warrants and preferred shares, and Island Information.

“2013 has been a banner year for the Exchange not just in terms of products and services that have been rolled out, but the market response to a lot of our initiatives and third-party views on what is happening in the Philippines,” PSE president and chief executive Hans B. Sicat told reporters on the sidelines of the bourse’s 10th listing anniversary.

The Philippine stock market remained in net foreign buying territory of 15 billion as of yesterday, but significantly lower than the 109-billion tally in the same period a year ago.

Foreign buying rose 55 percent to 1.31 trillion as of yesterday from 1.29 trillion in the same period last year, Sicat said.

“On net foreign selling, as a lot of funds left during the last quarter, that number was 75 percent higher than what was the nominal last year. It’s not too different when you see the behavior of funds when they were leaving emerging markets like the Philippines to go back to developed markets like the United States, Japan and the euro zone, but we’re still in net foreign buying position,” Sicat said.

The PSEi index rallied over 27 percent when it peaked at 7,392.20 on May 15,

but saw its gains vanish on concerns that the US Federal Reserve will curtail its bond-buying program, a key driver of financial market rallies worldwide.

The share of trades of foreign and local investors were nearly equally split with daily trading value improving by 45 percent to 10.5 billion as of yesterday.

Capital raising at the local bourse reached 175 billion, a fifth lower than the record 219 billion registered last year from initial public offerings, followon offerings and private placements. ■

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

To minimize bus accidents, gov’t plans to privatize vehicle inspection

MANILA - The government plans to privatize the motor vehicle inspection system (MVIS) of the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

“We are looking at doing a PPP on MVIS,” Transport Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya said, referring to the government’s public-private partnership scheme.

“We are going to NEDA because apparently the government is not in a position to procure and operate all of these. We will also check if it is legal. We will see if the private sector has an appetite for this,” Abaya last week told reporters.

To date, only four out of 12 MVIS had been installed, as LTO is having a hard time to maintain these facilities, he said.

Once the private sector takes over the MVIS, the LTO and the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will be “purely regulating the standards,” Abaya said.

The MVIS aims to provide a systematic,

reliable and effective testing of motor vehicles through computerization and automation for compliance with safety and emission requirements. The program should bar from roads motor vehicles that are not roadworthy, thus reducing traffic accidents arising from improper maintenance.

The move to privatize the MVIS came after only six of the 42 buses of Don Mariano Transit Corp passed the road worthiness inspection conducted by the LTO. The government has barred Don Mariano’s entire 78-bus fleet from plying Metro Manila roads for 30 days after a deadly accident at the Skyway. Eighteen people died while at least 16 others were injured after a Don Mariano bus crashed through the railings of the Skyway and landed on a delivery van traversing the service road below. ■ Darwin G. Amojelar / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 1:57 PM

Krista Angela M. Montealegre / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 3:46 PM

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January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

San Miguel power arm eyes IPO in 2014

MANILA – San Miguel Corp (SMC) intends to take public its power generation arm next year after the stock market entry of its key shareholder.

“Sana magawa na ‘yung [listing of San Miguel] Global Power [next year],” SMC president and chief operating officer Ramon S. Ang told reporters on the sidelines of the Philippine Stock Exchange’s 10th listing anniversary this morning.

SMC Global Power had deferred its initial public offering (IPO) for a second time because of adverse market conditions. The power generation company also postponed its 37-billion maiden share sale in 2011.

The holding firm for the power generation assets of San Miguel, SMC Global Power is the country’s biggest power producer and

accounts for about a fifth of the Philippines’ total supply.

“Actually, it’s not a problem to raise funds kasi nakapila na ‘yung mga kausap natin. It’s more of acquisitions,” Ang said.

First or second week January listing for Top Frontier. As for Top Frontier Investment Holdings Inc, the key San Miguel shareholder will debut in the local bourse through listing by way of introduction in the “first or second week of January,” Ang said.

Early this month, the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PSE cleared the listing of 490.196 million Top Frontier common shares on the Main Board of the local bourse at 178 per share.

Unlike an initial public offering (IPO), listing by way of introduction involves no

immediate sale of shares, but requires the applicant to do so within a year after joining the bourse.

The listing includes 240.196 million shares that SMC declared as property dividends to address cross-holding issues.

Top Frontier owns 56.6073 percent of SMC and another 9.4963 percent lodged with the Philippine Depository & Trust Corp.

The conglomerate, in turn, roughly owns 49 percent of Top Frontier, while the rest is controlled by a group that includes former trade minister Roberto V. Ongpin, Inigo Zobel and Joselito Campos.

Besides food and beverage, SMC has interests in packaging, power generation, oil refining and retailing, mining, telecommunications, property development

and infrastructure. It entered the aviation business last year with the acquisition of a 49 percent stake in Philippine Airlines and Airphil Express for $500 million.

SMC has completed the sale of its

remaining 27.1 percent stake in Manila Electric Co, the country’s biggest power distributor, to JG Summit Holdings Inc. ■ Krista Angela M. Montealegre / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 12:22 PM

PLDT adds to suite of cloud solutions for businesses MANILA – Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co (PLDT) has unveiled a new cloud solution for enterprises.

In a statement, Nico Alcoseba, PLDT assistant vice president and head of Corporate Business Solutions, said PLDT Cloud PaaS provides enterprises with faster speed-to-market application deployment and more flexible development through its rich

development tools and application templates in a more cost-efficient manner.

“Traditional application development, from initial set-up to delivery, usually takes 3 to 6 months and requires the purchase of millions of pesos worth of equipment and licenses,” Alcoseba said.

PLDT ALPHA Enterprise’s Cloud PaaS gives enterprises the ability to develop and deliver various applications with unprecedented ease.

“Enterprise developers can begin creating their applications in a standard Web browser using pre-built templates, significantly reducing development lead-

time thanks to an 80 percent drag-anddrop and 20 percent coding model,” PLDT said.

Pre-built templates on its starter package can be used instantly to develop applications for numerous organizational needs such as sales and marketing, human resources, IT, and other functional areas.

They also have an option to purchase more advanced application templates that specifically benefit industries such as banking and finance, retail, manufacturing, and real estate.

“As global business becomes even more fast-paced, it is imperative for

enterprises to innovate instantly in order to stay ahead of their competition,” Jovy Hernandez, PLDT first vice president and head of PLDT ALPHA Enterprise said.

“With PLDT Cloud PaaS, companies can harness the infinite possibilities of the cloud, to quickly create solutions that make them more productive and more efficient,” Hernandez said.

PLDT Cloud PaaS is initially offered for P2,500 per user per month. This includes the platform development tools, starter application templates, a PLDT Cloud IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service) resource with up to 150 megabytes (MB) of storage, and free data transfer.

HAVE YOU HEARD?

As with other existing PLDT Cloud solutions offerings, PLDT Cloud PaaS is housed in the multi-certified PLDT VITRO Data Center, assuring clients of the solution’s security and reliability.

PLDT Cloud PaaS is the latest addition in the PLDT Cloud portfolio, joining other solutions such as PLDT Cloud IaaS (Infrastructure as a Service), PLDT Cloud SaaS (Software as a Service), and the recently launched PLDT Cloud CCaaS (Contact Center as a Service).

InterAksyon.com is the online news portal of TV5, a member of the PLDT group. ■ Darwin G. Amojelar / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 2:17 PM

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BUSINESS & FINANCE

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Insurance Commission, PSE drawing up rules for ‘short sales’ MANILA – The local bourse is working with the Insurance Commission (IC) to allow insurers to lend part of their portfolio to the stock market in a bid to boost securities borrowing and lending (SBL) activity.

Following revisions to the Insurance Code that took effect in August, IC is coming out with the implementing rules and regulations that will be “flexible enough to allow for borrowing and lending activities of insurance companies,” Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE) chief operating officer Roel Refran told reporters today.

“We’re talking with the Insurance Commission, which was quite helpful, that they will allow insurance companies to lend portions of their portfolio, at least on more liquid securities, to the market,” PSE president and chief executive officer Hans Sicat said.

“It’s something that is not allowed today and is not widely used as a lending product by the Insurance Commission, but we do know they’re long in market equities. That to us is a very big step in providing the framework for the SBL,” Sicat said.

Called a “short sale” in other markets, SBL involves an investor lending their stocks to a second party who sells the same shares, betting that the price would dip afterward. The borrowing party makes money when they repay the

lending party with shares bought at the hoped-for lower price.

“There’s probably just enough supply in the market to prevent trade fails, but not enough to do strategic hedging exercise and that’s been the missing ingredient. Once that happens, you have the ingredients for a more robust ability to borrow and hedge. It will also be an important building block for the first derivative products, all these futures-type transactions,” Sicat said.

The PSE plans to introduce derivatives in the local bourse following its launch in the Singapore Exchange last month.

Insurers are “quite excited” about this development because it provides an additional source of fees, Sicat said.

The PSE has also talked to big pension funds Social Security System and the Government Service Insurance System.

“They do realize there is such a product but we will have to ensure charter or internal rules and regulations will allow them to lend certain parts of their portfolio,” he said.

Refran said the way forward is to have a central party arrangement, similar to how trades are executed in the bourse, to minimize, if not, eliminate the counterparty risk.

“It would be best housed in the depositary clearing house as is the case in other markets,” he said. ■ Krista Angela M. Montealegre / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 4:17 PM

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PSE eyes amendments in SBL rules for insurance companies THE Philippine Stock Exchange eyes amendments to the rules for its securities borrowing and lending (SBL) program next year to allow insurance companies to lend liquid securities in their portfolio to spur liquidity in the market, executives said.

The PSE is in talks with the Insurance Commission to allow insurance companies to lend portions of the portfolio on more liquid securities to the market, president and CEO Hans Sicat told reporters during the 10th listing anniversary briefing in Makati City.

“We need to ensure the environment around it, the legal framework, as well as the taxation framework that governs it, is aligned to current global practices,” he said.

“If that happens, we will have a good chance of launching it in 2014,” Sicat added.

SBL allows an owner or controller of securities to lend to a borrower who needs funds. In the case of the stock market, the shares of stocks act as the securities to be lent or borrowed.

In February 2011, the PSE board approved the draft framework for public comments but the program was put on hold since then.

Under the framework, the owner and lender will execute a written contract called a securities lending authorization agreement (SLAA), which defines the stock owner’s right to cash and stock dividends, stock rights and other

corporate actions, and specified rate or income from the transaction.

The parties will also execute a master securities lending agreement (MSLA)—a written contract that defines and specifies the general terms and conditions of the arrangement—and submit it to the Bureau of Internal Revenue for registration in order to avail the special tax treatment.

Sicat noted that without the framework, insurance companies—which are long on equities—do not have enough leeway to do strategic hedging exercises.

“That has been the missing ingredient...

Once that happens, you will have the ingredients for a more robust ability to borrow and hedge,” he said.

Since the Insurance Code was revised, implementing rules and regulations will be flexible enough to allow borrowing and lending, spurring interest from insurance companies.

The PSE president said they have talked to the Social Security System and Government Service Insurance System pension funds.

“They are quite excited about it. They realized it’s another source of fees for them as long as we have a well-defined structure,” Sicat said.

“They do realize there is such a product but we will have to ensure charter or internal rules and regulations will allow them to lend certain parts of their portflio,” he added. ■ Danessa O. Rivera / JDS, GMA News / December 27, 2013 / 5:37 PM

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Air strike on market, hospital in Syria’s Aleppo kills 25

BEIRUT - Helicopters dropped TNTpacked barrels on a vegetable market and next to a hospital in Syria’s northern city Aleppo Saturday, killing at least 25 civilians including two children, a watchdog said.

“The number of people killed has risen to 25 including two women, four children, a teenager and a media activist,” the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, updating an earlier toll.

“The number is likely to rise further because several people have been critically injured,” the Britain-based group added.

The Syrian Revolution General Commission, a network of activists on the ground, called the bombing a “massacre”.

“The raid targeted a crowded market where people were buying vegetables and home appliances,” it said. “Many buildings have been damaged, and one collapsed.”

The Observatory and activists in Aleppo say President Bashar al-Assad’s regime has waged a massive aerial offensive against the city and nearby villages since December 15, killing more than 400 people, mostly civilians.

Warplanes have launched rockets

and helicopters dropped so-called barrel bombs, often on densely populated rebelheld areas, terrorising residents.

Rights organisations and Arab and Western countries have condemned the offensive as “indiscriminate” and “unlawful”, but Assad’s regime says it is targeting “terrorists”.

Activists distributed footage of the badly damaged market area.

“We have picked up pieces of children’s bodies -- they were there with two women and a man,” said one man, pointing at a destroyed vehicle.

“Inside the car there were bodies of women with their heads severed. We put the remains in bags... May God take his vengeance against you, tyrant,” he added of Assad.

Observatory director Rami Abdel Rahman said the regime is using the same tactic for Aleppo as it has for other besieged rebel-controlled areas.

“The regime wants to take back rebel areas through an air offensive, terrorising the civilians and pushing out the rebels,” said Abdel Rahman.

Syrians search for survivors amidst the rubble following an airstrike in Aleppo on December 17, 2013

“It will then try to besiege these areas, even if it doesn’t have enough troops for that right now.”

Activists said Ahmad al-Hajji, an independent anti-regime activist, was killed in the market attack.

They distributed a recording of Hajji taking part in a discussion on Syria that was broadcast on an official television channel months into the anti-Assad revolt.

“Stop treating us like idiots,” Hajji said, calling on “all media (in Syria), both public and private... to show how the demonstrations are being suppressed. We should be protecting these demonstrations.”

Syria’s war broke out after Assad’s regime unleashed a brutal crackdown on dissent when an Arab Spring-style revolt calling for change erupted.

In Aleppo province, helicopters dropped

barrel bombs near Aleppo prison, which has been under siege by the jihadist Al-Nusra Front and other Islamist groups for eight months.

The Observatory says regime warplanes are using air bases in Aleppo province, notably Nairab east of the provincial capital.

Later Saturday, warplanes fired rockets near a girls’ school in Azaz in Aleppo province, as well as at Sheikh Eissa village, killing one man and wounding seven children, the Observatory said.

Near Damascus, activists said several vehicles carrying aid had reached the town of Moadamiyet al-Sham, despite a truce between regime and opposition fighters breaking down two days ago.

The media centre of the opposition local council in the Moadamiyet al-Sham said on Facebook “a number of cars carrying emergency supplies” had entered the area.

Rebels had raised the national flag above the town under the 72-hour ceasefire that was supposed to allow food in to Moadamiyet al-Sham, which has been besieged by government forces for more than a year. ■ AFP

Lebanon’s anti-Syria bloc rejects govt with Hezbollah

Samsung’s Galaxy S4 smartphone pictured during its unveiling at Radio City Music Hall in New York on March 14, 2013

Apple asks US court to ban Samsung phones, tablets

SAN Francisco - Apple has asked a federal judge to bar US sales of Samsung smartphones and tablet computers in the blockbuster patent case involving the two electronics giants.

In a court filing in California, Apple said the smartphones and tablets were found to have violated patents in a jury trial held last year.

Apple renewed its bid for a permanent injunction on sales of a number of Samsung products after an appeals court decision last month cleared the way for a new hearing on the matter.

In the latest filing dated Thursday, Apple’s attorneys wrote that the court “previously concluded that Samsung’s sale of infringing products has irreparably harmed Apple.”

The document added that the appeals court decision “makes clear that the record evidence... collectively demonstrates a sufficient ‘causal nexus’ between Samsung’s infringement and the irreparable harm to Apple.”

Apple added that “money damages are not an adequate remedy for Samsung’s infringement of these patents.”

The US firm is seeking a ban on Samsung’s smartphone models Captivate, Continuum, Droid Charge, Epic 4G, Exhibit 4G, Fascinate, Galaxy Ace, Galaxy Prevail, Galaxy S, Galaxy S 4G, Gem, Indulge, Infuse, Mesmerize, Nexus S 4G, Replenish, Vibrant,Transform and three versions of the

Galaxy S II. Bans are also being sought on the Galaxy Tab and Tab 10.1 tablets.

The request does not affect the newest Samsung devices, which were not at issue in the trial because of the fast product cycles in the industry.

The South Korean firm, the world’s biggest maker of smartphones, has been ordered to pay Apple more than $900 million after a retrial on some of the issues in the case.

But the case, one of several being played out in courts and administrative agencies around the world, has not dented sales of Samsung, which has vaulted ahead of Apple in many markets around the world. ■ AFP

BEIRUT - Lebanon’s anti-Syria bloc said on Saturday that it refuses to join a government with Hezbollah, a day after it lost an influential member in a Beirut car bombing.

The attack in the heart of the capital on Friday killed seven people including March 14 bloc member Mohammad Chatah. Hours later, the bloc implied it held Hezbollah and its ally Syrian President Bashar al-Assad responsible.

The attack comes nine months into a major political crisis in Lebanon.

Ever since a caretaker government headed by prime minister Najib Mikati resigned, the country’s main political forces have been too divided to agree on a new government.

“Today we propose a government composed of representatives of our camp and of centrists, without Hezbollah,” said Fares Souaid, secretary general of the March 14 bloc.

“We have, in the past, participated in national unity governments (with Hezbollah), made compromises, initiated dialogue to try and convince this party to stop resorting to violence and killing to reach its political goals,” Souaid told AFP. “But the killing machine has not stopped,” he added.

“Today we are calling for the creation

of a government composed of our group along with centrists, excluding Hezbollah.”

Friday’s attack came amid deep tensions in Lebanon linked to the conflict in neighbouring Syria.

Hezbollah has sent in thousands of fighters to back Assad’s troops, defying repeated calls to keep out of the conflict.

March 14 was created in 2005, after the assassination of former prime minister Rafiq Hariri.

Assad’s opponents in Lebanon blame Hariri’s killing and that of 12 other highprofile politicians, intellectuals and security officials on the Damascus regime.

Although an international outcry over

Hariri’s assassination forced Assad to withdraw Syrian troops from Lebanon later that year, Damascus has continued to exert significant influence through its allies.

After Mikati resigned in March, proMarch 14 politician Tammam Salam was named to take his place but the country’s deep divisions have prevented the formation of a new government.

Hezbollah has proposed the formation of a national unity government, bringing together its allies, March 14 and centrist ministers.

But Hezbollah and its allies insist they must control key portfolios such as the foreign and interior ministries. ■ AFP

Lebanese troops inspect the scene of a car bomb explosion that rocked central Beirut, on December 27, 2013

Saudi police ‘pounce on woman defying drive ban’ JEDDAH (Saudi Arabia) - Saudi police on Saturday pulled over a woman minutes after she got behind the wheel in the Red Sea city of Jeddah after activists called for a new challenge to a driving ban.

“Only 10 minutes after Tamador alYami got behind the wheel police stopped her,” activist Eman al-Nafjan told AFP, adding that Yami carries an international driving licence and was with another woman who was filming her in the car.

Tamador’s husband was called to the scene and she was forced to sign a pledge not to drive again without a Saudi licence,

said Nafjan on her Twitter account.

Women are not allowed into driving schools in the ultra-conservative kingdom are not granted licences.

Elsewhere in Khobar, in Eastern Province, another woman drove for two hours, accompanied by her husband, without being stopped, Nafjan said.

Activists say Saturday was chosen as a “symbolic” date as part of efforts first launched more than a decade ago to press for the right for Saudi women to drive.

The call for action is a “reminder of the

right so it is not forgotten,” activist Nasima al-Sada had told AFP. The absolute monarchy is the only country in the world where women are barred from driving, a rule that has drawn international condemnation.

Saturday’s action is a continuation of a campaign launched on October 26, when 16 activists were stopped by police for defying the ban.

In addition to not being allowed to drive, Saudi women must cover themselves from head to toe and need permission from a male guardian to travel, work and marry. ■ AFP

Image grab taken from a video uploaded by Saudi activists to YouTube claims to show a fully veiled woman driving in Riyadh during a planned nationawide day of defiance of the ban on women driving on October 26, 2013

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INTERNATIONAL NEWS

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

China must retaliate for Japan PM shrine visit: media BEIJING - China’s state media on Friday urged “excessive” counter-measures after Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s inflammatory war shrine visit, as analysts warned against the dangers of provoking smouldering regional resentments.

The comment came after China summoned Tokyo’s ambassador on Thursday to deliver a “strong reprimand” after Abe paid respects at the Yasukuni shrine earlier in the day.

The site honours several high-level officials executed for war crimes after World War II, a reminder of Japan’s 20th century aggression and a source of bitterness for China and other Asian countries.

South Korea, which also has a litany

of historical resentments against Japan, slammed Abe’s visit as “anachronistic behaviour.” And the United States -- Tokyo’s key security ally -- issued a rare criticism, saying it was “disappointed” over an act “that will exacerbate tensions with Japan’s neighbours”.

The Global Times, a paper that is close to China’s ruling Communist Party and often strikes a nationalist tone, said that people were “getting tired of... futile ‘strong condemnations’”.

“China needs to take appropriate, even slightly excessive countermeasures” or else “be seen as a ‘paper tiger’”, it warned in an editorial.

It suggested barring high-profile

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (R) walks away after paying homage at the altar of the controversial Yasukuni war shrine in Tokyo on December 26, 2013. Photo by Toru Yamanaka.

Fact file on Japan’s controversial Yasukuni war shrine

South Korean conservative activists set fire to effigies of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Japanese politicians and other officials who went to the shrine from visiting China for five years.

The visit sparked protests Friday in both Seoul and Hong Kong, the former British colony which was occupied by the Japanese during the Second World War. In Seoul demonstrators, most of whom were in their 60s and 70s, shouted antiJapanese slogans such as “Down with Abe!” and “Boycott Japanese goods!” outside the country’s embassy.

Brief scuffles erupted when police tried to stop the burning of Japanese flags but there were no injuries or arrests.

Similar scenes broke out in Hong Kong where protestors burned Japanese military flags emblazoned with the Chinese words for “shame”, a picture of Japanese Second World War general Hideki Tojo and a portrait of Abe. Analysts said the visit showed Abe’s determination to drag Japan, constrained by a US-imposed “pacifist” constitution that he wants to change, to the right and nudges Northeast Asia a significant step closer to conflict.

China and Japan, the world’s secondand third-largest economies, have important trading ties.

But tensions over East China Sea islands known as Diaoyu in China and Senkaku in Japan have soured diplomatic relations since last year.

Chinese protesters took to the streets in major cities at that time, attacking Japanese diplomatic facilities and businesses, harassing individual Japanese and turning over vehicles made by the country’s manufacturers in demonstrations initially condoned by authorities, who eventually restricted them.

Beijing has pursued its territorial claims

more assertively in recent years and last month unilaterally declared an “air defence identification zone” that included the islands, provoking widespread diplomatic condemnation of its own.

In a commentary on Abe’s visit, the PLA Daily, the newspaper of China’s People’s Liberation Army, said it “once again exposed the impunity of Abe on the rightist road and also conveys a very dangerous signal”.

Those enshrined at Yasukuni were “devils, butchers, and executioners who were drenched in blood and brought havoc to hundreds of millions of people in Asia”, it said.

“Abe not only trampled on human conscience, but insulted the IQ of people in the victim countries.”

Abe was the first incumbent Japanese prime minister to visit the site since 2006.

The strength of Chinese reactions reflect still smouldering resentment against over the devastation it suffered at Japan’s hands during the Second World War. According to estimates by Chinese government researchers, China lost 20.6 million people directly from the conflict.

Analysts also say, however, that China’s ruling Communist Party has been adept at using outrage against Japan to deflect criticism away from its own rule.

The party mouthpiece, the People’s Daily, drove home in a commentary its view that Japan appears incapable of understanding its part in the war.

“History tells people that one country which cannot correctly understand the evil fascist war, nor reflect on war crimes, cannot truly achieve national rejuvenation,” it said.

Jia Qingguo, an international relations expert at Peking University, described Abe as reckless and misguided.

South Korean conservative activists cut a Japanese flag during a protest against Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visiting the Yasukuni war shrine in Seol on December 27, 2013. Photo by Woohae Cho.

South Korean police with conservative activists during a protest.

“I think he’s very irresponsible,” Jia told AFP. “He knows the negative consequence of this for China-Japan relations.”

“Maybe it’s what he really believes in his mind, that is the history of the Second World War has been misinterpreted by the rest of the world, what Japan did was the right thing.”

China’s foreign ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said Friday that the Japanese leader’s argument that it was a private visit was “feeble and not worth refuting”.

“What we see is hypocrisy and selfcontradiction,” she added, but declined to be drawn on specific measures China might take.

Trying to limit fallout from the visit, Abe said Thursday it should be seen as a pledge that Japan would not go to war again and was not intended to hurt Chinese or South Koreans. ■ AFP / December 27, 2013 / 5:27 AM

Thai government asks army to secure election BANGKOK - The Thai government appealed to the military Friday to provide security for February elections after violent clashes between police and opposition protesters left two people dead and more than 150 wounded.

With tensions running high in the capital, the army chief refused to rule out a coup, saying “anything can happen”.

Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra’s government has pledged to go ahead with the polls in the hope of calming weeks of mass street demonstrations seeking to curb her family’s political dominance.

The protesters have vowed to block the vote, saying it will only return the Shinawatra clan to power.

A policeman and a civilian died of

gunshots fired by unknown assailants while 153 people were injured after violence erupted Thursday when demonstrators tried to force their way into an election registration venue.

The security forces denied using live ammunition.

Deputy Prime Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul said he would ask the armed forces supreme commander for help with security for a second round of registration for constituency candidates due to begin around the country on Saturday.

“I will also ask the military to provide security protection for members of the public on the February 2 election date,” he said in a nationally televised address.

An anti-riot policeman is seen near an abandoned police truck at a stadium in Bangkok, on December 27, 2013. Photo by Mohd Rasfan.

Thailand’s Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra (C), pictured before a meeting in Chinag Mai province.

The army chief insisted Friday that the military would remain neutral and said it was up to the election authorities whether the vote could go ahead.

“Don’t bring us into the middle of the conflict,” General Prayut Chan-O-Cha said when asked if the army would send soldiers to guard polling stations.

But he did not rule out another coup.

“The door is neither closed nor open. In every situation, anything can happen,” he said when asked about the possibility of a coup, without elaborating.

Yingluck’s government—which still enjoys strong support in the northern half of the country—has faced weeks of mass street rallies in the capital.

Thailand has been periodically convulsed by political bloodshed since Yingluck’s older brother Thaksin Shinawatra was overthrown by royalist generals in a coup seven years ago.

Thaksin’s Red Shirt supporters—who staged their own mass street protests against the previous government three years ago—warned Friday that they were ready to return to the streets if elections were thwarted.

“After the New Year we are preparing for a major battle,” core Red Shirt leader Jatuporn Prompan told reporters.

Supporters of Thaksin, a billionaire

Anti-riot police stand guard at a stadium in Bangkok, on December 27, 2013.

tycoon-turned-politician who lives in selfexile, have accused the demonstrators of trying to incite the military to seize power again, in a country which has seen 18 successful or attempted coups since 1932.

But so far the army—traditionally a staunch supporter of the anti-Thaksin establishment—has avoided any public intervention in the unrest, apart from sending a limited number of unarmed troops to guard government buildings.

The protesters, a mix of southerners, middle class and urban elite, accuse Thaksin of corruption and say he controls his sister’s government from his base in Dubai.

They want an unelected “people’s council” to run the country to oversee loosely-defined reforms—such as an end to alleged “vote buying”—before new elections are held in around a year to 18 months.

The weeks-long unrest, which has drawn tens of thousands of protesters onto the streets, has left seven people dead and about 400 wounded.

It is the worst civil strife since 2010, when more than 90 civilians were killed in a bloody military crackdown on pro-Thaksin Red Shirt protests under the previous government. ■ AFP / December 27, 2013

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IMMIGRATION / OFNEWS

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

6 Pinoy health workers in UAE form band to help fellow OFWs AL AIN, United Arab Emirates – From different bands in the Philippines, six overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) here have formed a band with the aim of helping their fellow overseas kababayans in the city.

The band, Nayla’s Crib, particularly wanted to help OFWs here raise donations for the countless victims of Typhoon Yolanda (Haiyan), which caused massive devastation in central Philippines last month. The group did this by participating in “We Sing for Philippines: Charity-for-a-Cause,” a twoday event held at the Nojoom Square in Al Ain Mall last November 22 and 23.

Comprising the group are Alijan Tatel, 28, and Jun Opiniano, 27, both radiographers of the NMC Hospital; Rachelle Yago, 28, Jason Badajos, 29, and Emeng Del Rosario, 28, all nurses of the NMC Hospital; and Rhea Mae Nico,

A screengrab of Nayla’s Crib performance in a benefit gig at Al Ain Mall.

Video grab courtesy of Jervyll Respicio.

29, medical coder in Al Ain Hospital.

“Last month, I met Mr. Nelson Nico, the executive chairman of FilCom, Al Ain. He told me that there will be a charity event for the victims struck by the Typhoon Haiyan. I said okay since it is for our kababayans naman. Ayun, dun

nagsimula,” Tatel, the band’s leader, shared in an email.

“Tinawagan ko nun si Jason, Rachelle, Emeng, and Jun to discuss the upcoming event. May sesyonista din kami, si Rhea. I was thinking about our band name then.

Naisip ko nun yung parking lot sa Ayla

Hotel where we took our first picture as a group. Nilikutan ko na lang ang isip ko at tinawag ko yung banda na Nayla’s Crib.”

The group also wanted to let other OFWs in Al Ain have easy access to the services of the Philippine Overseas Labor Office-Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (POLO-OWWA) through an event called “Filipino Bayanihan in Al Ain,” which was held last Dec. 13.

According to Tatel, they started “jamming” last year and even performed at some of their friends’ houses.

“Mahirap talaga ang maging musician dito kasi limitado ang opportunity. Sa mga pumunta as entertainer, ‘yun siguro mas okay ‘yun kasi ‘yun na talaga ang trabaho nila. Wala masyadong music scene dito,” he said.

The band’s musical influences consist mostly of 90s music, be it alternative, reggae, rock, pop, or heavy metal.

PHL envoy to Pinoys in China: Abide by visa rules or face deportation

PHILIPPINE Ambassador to China Erlinda Basilio has reminded Filipinos who go to China as tourists not to stay there for work unless they first obtain proper documentation.

In an email to GMA News Online, Basilio said, “Foreigners who engage in activities inconsistent with the purpose stated in their visas or permits may be deported and banned from entering China for 10 years.”

“Filipinos coming to China as tourists and who later decide to stay to work are reminded to ensure that they have the proper visa and work permits,” she added.

Basilio said China recently passed a new law on the entry and exit of foreigners to China, effective July 1 this year, imposing strict rules on illegal foreign workers.

“Those who are found illegally working in China, for example, may be detained for up to 45 days and fined a maximum amount

of RMB 20,000 (around US$3,333),” she said.

China’s labor policy on domestic workers. Meanwhile, Basilio also reminded Filipinos of China’s labor policy forbidding the hiring of foreigners for domestic service. “Only diplomats are allowed to hire foreigners as household service workers,” she said.

“Filipinos coming to China to work as household service workers for nondiplomat employers will have an illegal status and if they are caught by the authorities, they will be detained, fined and deported,” she warned.

The University of Hong Kong’s “Domestic Worker Project” cited how some Filipinos aiming to work in Hong Kong, a special administrative region of China, ended up working in mainland China.

The article “Destination Hong Kong,

36 distressed OFWs in Lebanon shelters repatriated before end of 2013

THE government assured Filipinos with relatives staying in Lebanon shelters that all distressed overseas Filipino workers there would be repatriated before the end of 2013.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Lebanon is working for the fast repatriation of 36 distressed OFWs, mostly household service workers that are sheltered at the Filipino Workers Resource Center (FWRC).

“We will effectively reduce to zero the number of distressed Filipino workers staying at the Center by the end of 2013,” Baldoz said in a statement.

Also, she said: “I commend the POLO in Lebanon for sustaining our efforts instruction to fast-track the settlement of cases and repatriation of OFWs to de-clog our FWRCs.” Assistant Labor Attache to Lebanon Irma Valiente said that the POLO, the Philippine Embassy and other government agencies were working together to fasttrack the repatriation of all OFWs currently staying in centers.

Irma said only 36 OFWs were still

remaining at the FWRC. They will be home before New year and reunited with their families, the labor official said.

“This is, without doubt, the result of our POLO-Lebanon’s good rapport and active networking with Lebanon’s immigration and labor offices.” she added.

Valiente said that the General Security Department of Lebanon has agreed to waive all the corresponding penalties and fines of the 36 distressed OFWs and them to leave immediately.

“The plane tickets of the 36, who are all female ‘runaways,’ will be paid for by Caritas Lebanon, a religious nongovernment organization in Bierut. We are finalizing the flight bookings of the distressed OFWs,” Valiente said in her report.

Baldoz said the initiative of POLO Lebanon to engage local authorities in Beirut to ensure OFW welfare and protection is in line with the DOLE’s thrust of working with the Department of Foreign Affairs to transform the FWRCs into centers of care and service for OFWs. ■ LBG, GMA News / December 28, 2013 / 3:26 PM

Detoured to China” cited cases of Filipinos who were brought to China on tourist visas and were allegedly made to work seven days a week, 10 hours a day.

A Filipina who intended to work as a maid in Hong Kong but ended up repacking fabrics at a factory in Shenzen claimed that her employer even beat her when she made mistakes in her job.

In her email, Basilio said Filipinos in distress in China should approach the Philippine embassy or consulates for assistance. “I urge our kababayans to communicate with us for anything that we can be of service to you,” she said.

The Philippine Embassy in China is located at 23 Xiushui Beijie, Jianguomenwai, Beijing, 100600, with phone numbers: +86-10-65321872/ +8610-65322451, and +86-13911180495, the embassy’s 24-hour Assistance-toNationals hotline.

Basilio said the Philippine Embassy in Beijing and the Philippines’ six Consulates General in China aim “to promote our country’s interests and to protect and serve you.”

“The Philippine Embassy and our Consulates General in Xiamen, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chongqing, Hong Kong and Macau constantly encourage Filipinos within their jurisdiction to register at the nearest Philippine Foreign Service Post, so that we may be better able to assist them, most especially during emergencies,” Basilio said.

Good general impression. Basilio noted that the Chinese in general have a good impression about Filipinos in China.

“Filipinos are known the world over for their industry and for their warm and friendly nature. Wherever we Filipinos are, we invariably impress people with our hospitable and gracious ways,” she said.

“I am proud to say that Filipinos in China are as well-regarded and as muchappreciated here as they are anywhere in the world for their diverse talents, varied skill sets and strong work ethics, as well as for their kind, pleasant and courteous dispositions,” she added.

Basilio noted that it is the Philippine government’s policy to promote friendship

and amity between Filipinos and Chinese, “whatever the external circumstances,” such as the Philippines’ territorial dispute with China over the West Philippine Sea. “The impressions of the Chinese of us Filipinos are mostly derived from personal contacts with the growing number of Filipinos in China (estimated to number about 15,000),” she said.

The latest Stock Estimate of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas, however, provides a higher figure on the number of Filipinos in China: 29,133 as of 2012.

Basilio said Filipinos in China include “musicians in Filipino bands playing in nightclubs, hotels and bars from Dalian to Xinjiang to Tibet to Shanghai; the teachers from pre-school to university level in both state-owned and private institutions; and the executives and technical professionals employed by multinational companies and conglomerates, as well as Philippine companies with presence in China.”

People-to-people exchanges. Basilio noted that the peoples of the Philippines and China have been in contact for hundreds of years.

An essay by historian William Henry Scott said Filipinos have been going to China even before the year 1500.

“According to Chinese records, Filipinos went to China before the Chinese came to the Philippines,” Scott wrote.

Basilio said “to enhance our cultural and people-to-people relations, it is important to first build trust, understanding and amity between our two peoples.”

“I am happy that the current trend in our people-to-people ties shows very promising signs, as more Chinese people gain interest

“Mas masaya ang music scene sa ‘Pinas, maraming tugtugan, production na puwedeng sampahan. Marami ding magagaling, mas challenging,” Tatel shared.

Tatel added they don’t have a problem performing in front of foreign audiences.

“Mas gusto namin ‘yun, kasi ‘yung mga kino- cover namin [ay] foreign songs naman,” he said, adding their goal is always to have a “good sound live” in their performances.

“Sana magaling palagi ‘yung sound engineer na nakaupo sa mixer. Kahit naman sino gusto ‘yun. Importante kasi ‘yun para mas ma-appreciate ng audience yung tunog,” Tatel said.

“Ang Nayla’s Crib ay uhaw sa tugtugan. Hanggang magkakasama kami ay tuloy-tuloy pa rin,” he added. ■ Lucky Mae F. Quilao / KBK, GMA News / December 27, 2013 / 1:50 PM

to learn more about the Philippines and the world-renowned hospitality of the Filipino people,” she added.

She cited some of the activities during the celebration of the 2012-2013 Years of Friendly Exchanges (YFE) between the Philippines and China, such as the Philippine food fests and performances of groups like the Loboc Children’s in various parts of China.

Problem on drug couriers. However, Basilio also acknowledged a problem straining Philippines-China relations: drug trafficking.

“Currently, there are 200 Filipinos serving sentences and 18 Filipinos with pending cases for drug-related offenses committed in China. Sixty-one of the 200 have been meted the sentence of death with two-year reprieve,” Basilio said.

“Our consulates regularly visit these Filipinos and remind them to observe good behavior inside prison, in order for their sentence to be commuted to life imprisonment,” she added.

She cited how the Philippine Consulate in Shanghai handled cases where the death penalty with two-year reprieve sentence imposed by the courts was reduced to life imprisonment for four cases in 2011 and one in 2012.

In July this year, China executed a 35-year-old Filipina who was caught carrying at least six kilos of heroin in China in January 2011.

Basilio said Philippine government agencies have been issuing warnings to Filipinos planning to go to China as drug couriers “that they risk receiving the penalty of death, or facing many years of imprisonment in a foreign country. Filipinos must remember that they are not exempt from the laws of their host country.”

“At every opportunity, I remind our compatriots here who call China their home to continue their hospitable and gracious ways because they are ambassadors of goodwill and messengers of friendship and peace for the Philippines,” she said.

“I continually exhort them to know and comply with the laws and regulations of our host country China and to always extend a hand of friendship to the Chinese people,” she added. ■ Veronica Pulumbarit / KBK, GMA News / December 27, 2013 / 7:27 PM

22 December New Dreams for The Gibson Hall, 13 Rebecca Grant 07762 551 448 // 22 December New Dreams for The Gibson Hall, 13 Rebecca Grant 07762 551 448 www.hello-philippines.com January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition 18 EVENTS DIARY UK & EUROPE Sunday Philippines Bishopsgate, London info@rebeccagrant.co.uk Sunday Philippines Bishopsgate, London info@rebeccagrant.co.uk DATE / TIME EVENT VENUE ORGANISER CONTACTS / REMARKS 7:00pm EC2N 7:00pm EC2N 3BA 3BA 18 December Ima Concert The Cockpit, DitseProductions CallInformation to Book Tickets: Tickets: 020 3286 4883 22 FromCastro Heavenin With With Love Chelsea Philippine 22 to to 26 26 January January From Heaven Love Chelsea Theatre, Theatre, 77 Philippine Theatre Theatre UK UK For For Information and and Tickets: 020 020 Wednesday – Full Circle Gateforth Street, Ticket: £12.00 2014 Theatrical Comedy Comedy World’s End Place, Place, 7352 2014 –– AA Theatrical World’s End 7352 1967 1967 // 7:00pm LondonRoad, NW8 8EH Evening Written and and Directed Directed King’s www.chealseatheatre.org.uk Evening 7:30pm 7:30pm Written King’s Road, London London www.chealseatheatre.org.uk 21 December BRITFIL Christmas Party Chasewell British & Filipino Nilda Dean – denil123@hotmail.com Sat by: Ramon Ramon Castillanes Castillanes SW10 Sat && Sun Sun Matinee Matinee by: SW10 0DR 0DR Saturday Community Social Community (BRITFIL) 3:00pm Tenoso 3:00pm Tenoso 6:00pm Club, Avoce Way, and if you know of any Events please contact us and submit FREE events on on the the HELLO HELLO PHILIPPINES PHILIPPINES newspaper FREE LISTING LISTING of of your your events newspaper and if you know of any Events please contact us and submit Cherwell Height, your your event event via via email email to to the the following following at at INFO@HELLO-PHILIPPINES.COM INFO@HELLO-PHILIPPINES.COM Banbury, Oxon OX16 DISCLAIMER: necessarily DISCLAIMER: The The Events Events Diary Diary Listing Listing does does not not9YA necessarily constitute constitute or or imply imply its its endorsement, endorsement, recommendation, recommendation, or or favouring favouring by by Hello Philippines The opinions authors herein or Hello Philippines newspaper. newspaper.

The views views andBournbrook opinions of ofand authors expressed herein do doofnot not necessarily necessarily state or reflect reflect those those of of 21 December Annual Christmas Partyand Selly expressed Filipino Association Contact anystate FAB Officers Hello Philippines an Events Diary Listing of happening Hello Philippines newspaper. newspaper. This This isis merely merelyOak an Social EventsClub, Diary13A ListingBirmingham of what what isis(FAB) happening within within the the Filipino Filipino Communities Communities in in Saturday Europe.

Europe.

This isis for for general general information information only. only. Hubert Road, Selly 5:00pm This MONTHLY COMMUNITY MASSES MONTHLY FILIPINO FILIPINO COMMUNITY MASSES IN IN GREATER GREATER LONDON LONDON Oak, Birmingham B29 st 11st Sunday 2:00pm Five Precious Wounds Wounds Parish, Parish, Brentfield Brentfield Road, Road, Stonebridge Sunday 2:00pm Five Stonebridge Park, Park, London London NW10 NW10 8ER 8ER 6DX Precious Mervic Monocillo 07894UK636 636 140 Mervic Monocillo –– 07894 140 22st December Christmas Party Crown Moran Hotel, Candelaria Quezon Jennifer Arguelles (President) – 5:00pm Our Lady of Sorrows Sorrows Catholic Catholic Church,(UKCQA) Friary Road, Road,arguelles_cpa@yahoo.com.ph Peckham, London London SE15 SE15 1RH 1RH st Sunday Sunday 5:00pm Our Church, Friary Peckham, 11Sunday 142 –Lady 152 of Association Allen Abeleda –– 07713 07713 625 625 888 888 Allen Abeleda 5:00pm Cricklewood 22ndnd Saturday 4:00pm St Apostle New Road, Road, London Saturday 4:00pm St Peter Peter the theLondon Apostle Catholic Catholic Church, Church, 103 103 Woolwich Woolwich New London SE18 SE18 6EF 6EF Broadway, Moises Moises3EDEspanola Espanola –– 07894 07894 648 648 639 639 NW2 nd 222 Sunday 2:00pm English Wembley 9EW Sunday 2:00pm English Martyrs Martyrs Church, Chalkhill Chalkhill Road, Road, Wembley Wembley Park, Park, Wembley HA9 9EW551 448 / 2nd December New Dreams for The Gibson Hall, 13 Church, Rebecca GrantHA9 07762 Becky Sarinas –– 07949 857 699 // 07425 761 519 // Lina BB –– 07579 418 510 Becky Sarinas 07949 857 699 07425 761 519 Lina 07579 418 510 Sunday Philippines Bishopsgate, London info@rebeccagrant.co.uk nd 27:00pm 2:00pm St 2nd Sunday Sunday 2:00pm St Dominic Dominic Catholic Church, Church, 243 243 Violet Violet Lane, Lane, Waddon, Waddon, Croydon Croydon CR0 CR0 4HN 4HN EC2N 3BA Catholic –– 07722 462 Merlie Mirto Mirto 07722 216 Philippine 462 22nd to 26 January From Heaven With Love Merlie Chelsea Theatre, 7 216 Theatre UK For Information and Tickets: 020 22014 4:00pm St. WC2A Sunday St. Anselm Anselm and St. Cecilia, Cecilia, 70 70 Lincoln's Lincoln's Inn Inn Fields, Fields, London London WC2A 3JA 2nd Sunday –4:00pm A Theatrical Comedy St. World’s Endand Place, 7352 1967 / 3JA Feliciano Ramirez –– 07733 Feliciano Ramirez 07733 680 680 748 748 Evening 7:30pm Written and Directed King’s Road, London www.chealseatheatre.org.uk rd 3Sat Sacred Heart of of Jesus, Jesus, New Sunday 3:00pm Heart New Priory, Priory, Quex Quex Road, Road, Kilburn, Kilburn, London London NW6 NW6 4PS 4PS 3rd Sunday & Sun Matinee 3:00pm by: Ramon Castillanes Sacred SW10 0DR Sheidrick de de Leon Leon –– 07738 Sheidrick 07738 210 210 202 202 3:00pm Tenoso rd Blessed Sacrament Sacrament Parish, Copenhagen Street, Islington 0SR rd Sunday 33FREE Sunday 3:00pm Blessed Parish, 157 Copenhagen Street, Islington N1contact 0SR us and submit LISTING of your3:00pm events on the HELLO PHILIPPINES newspaper and157 if you know of any Events pleaseN1 Christy Sangalang Sangalang –– 07709 Christy 07709 119 119 969 969 your event via email to the following at INFO@HELLO-PHILIPPINES.COM Last Saturday Saturday 6:00pm Our Lady Lady of of Dolours, Dolours, Servite Servite Parish Parish Church, Church, 264 264 Fulham Fulham Road, Road, London London SW10 SW10 4EL 4EL Last 6:00pm Our DISCLAIMER: The Events Diary Listing does notFrnecessarily or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favouring by Allan Satur Satur ––constitute 020 7352 Fr Allan 020 7352 6965 6965 // fulhamroad@rcdow.org.uk fulhamroad@rcdow.org.uk Hello Philippines newspaper. The views andRoland opinions of authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of Adap –– r_adap@hotmail.com r_adap@hotmail.com Roland Adap Hello Philippines newspaper.

This is merelySt.anJoseph’s Events Catholic Diary Listing of what is happeningLane, within the Filipino Communities in Last Sunday 2:00pm Church, 218 Roehampton London SW15 4LE Last Sunday 2:00pm St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 218 Roehampton Lane, London SW15 4LE Europe. This is for general information only. Rafael Santiago – 07795 254 451 Rafael Santiago – 07795 254 451 MONTHLY FILIPINO COMMUNITY MASSES IN 20 GREATER LONDON Every Sunday Sunday 5:00pm Holy Redeemer Redeemer Catholic Church, Brixton Road, Every 5:00pm Holy Catholic Church, 20 Brixton Road, Oval, Oval, London London SW9 SW9 6BU 6BU st 1 Sunday 2:00pm Five Precious Wounds Parish, Brentfield Road, Stonebridge Park, London NW10 8ER Ben Ortiz Ortiz –– 07723 07723 318 318 486 Ben 486 Mervic Monocillo – 07894 636 140Mother of Perpetual Help, Farm Street Church of the First Wednesdays Wednesdays 6:30pm Filipino Mass Mass and Novena Novena to Our Our First 6:30pm Filipino and to Mother of Perpetual Help, Farm Street Church of the 1st Sunday 5:00pm Our Lady of Sorrows Catholic Church, Friary Road,access Peckham,114 London SE15 1RHLondon Immaculate Conception Conception (Jesuit Immaculate (Jesuit House House Chapel), Chapel), access on on 114 Mount Mount Street, Street, London Allen Abeleda – 07713 625 888 W1K 3AY W1K 3AY 2nd Saturday 4:00pm St Peter the Apostle Catholic Church, 103 Woolwich New Road, London SE18 6EF Josie Ramos – 07723 024 591 Josie Ramos – 07723 024 591 Moises Espanola – 07894 648 639

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January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

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‘Babangon ulit ako’: After losing 22 family members, Yolanda survivor vows to move on PALO, Leyte – “Babangon ako, hindi puwedeng hindi ako babangon. Okay na ‘ko, ubos na ang luha ko. Kailangan kong bumangon para sa natirang anak ko (I will rise again, I cannot afford not to. I’m okay, my tears have run dry. I have to rise again for my remaining child).”

Pedro Lacandazo, 59, lost 22 family members when the storm surge generated by super typhoon Yolanda swept through Palo, Leyte. Four of them remain missing to this day and, since then, Junjun, the only survivor of Lacandazo’s four children, has spent his days searching for them.

As if losing the most kin in his village of san Joaquin to the worst storm to hit the country weren’t bad enough, Lacandazo said he has had to suffer the indignity— nay, the inhumanity—of seeing his grandson deprived of relief supplies by what he suspects is the kind of petty politics that often passes for governance in many parts of the country.

According to Lacandazo, 12-year old Jhonpaul Madrigal, who lost his parents and two brothers, was not listed as a recipient of relief supplies by their village council because he is considered a dependent of his uncle Junjun.

Unable to contain himself, Lacandazo admits he took his bolo to the temporary barangay hall where relief operations were held and vented his anger.

“Marami namang relief goods, nabubulok lang. Ba’t hindi ‘yan binibigay?

Marami namang mga pamilya na hindi

masaydong naapektuhan at walang namatay sa kanila, binibigyan naman ng relief goods (There are plenty of relief goods, they are just rotting. Why don’t they give these away? There are many families who are not as badly affected and lost no one, but they are given relief goods),” Lacandazo said.

He suspects the real reason is because he ran with the opposition to the incumbent village chairman in the October barangay elections.

Despite this, Lacandazo may have found the best way to get back at his tormentors.

Two members of the village council died during the storm and Lacandazo insisted on claiming one of the vacancies by right of succession, based on the number of votes he garnered during the polls.

Despite attempts to oppose this, the law was upheld in his favor.

And Lacandazo has vowed to us the opportunity to become active in governance, his way of moving on after such massive loss.

Like Lacandazo, many of San Joaquin’s villagers spent Christmas Day coping with their loss by holding on to the tradition of being with their families, even if only by the graves where they lie buried in front of the church by the highway.

There they offered food, flowers, toys for the children, and lighted candles for the dead. ■ Lottie Salarda / InterAksyon.com / December 25, 2013 / 10:55 PM

Yolanda survivor Pedro Lacandazo stands beside the board where he has listed the 22 members of his family who died when super typhoon Yolanda’s storm surge swept through Palo, Leyte. Of the 22, four remain missing. Photos by Bernard Testa, InterAksyon.com.

The graveyard in front of the church in Barangay San Joaquin, Palo, Leyte where villagers spent Christmas clinging to the tradition of being with their families, even those they lost to super typhoon Yolanda.

20

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Skyway accident brings out foreigner’s frustration with PHL society

AN American whose Filipino father-inlaw was among those who perished in the Dec. 16 deadly Skyway accident took to YouTube to vent his ire on the supposed “lack of accountability” among Filipinos.

“One thing that I saw when I was at the Philippines was a lack of accountability.

There needs to be accountability,” fumed Shane Krueger in the seven-minute video titled “Justice for Tatay.”

Krueger’s tatay, Roydel Tolentino, was among the 19 people killed when a passenger bus owned and operated by Don Mariano Transit plunged from the Skyway, which is an elevated highway, and into a closed van on the morning of December 16.

In the video, Krueger—shown with his son in a dimly-lit room—chided the Don Mariano bus firm for having “several failures, several deaths.”

“Their name should be mud,” he said, noting that the passengers of the bus were all heading to work “to make money.”

Greatest man. In an email to GMA News Online, Krueger described Tolentino as “the greatest man I have known.”

“Roydel Tolentino, or Tatay as Everyone called him, was hands down the greatest man I have known. He was a generous man, he was a patient man, he always helped our neighbors, with money or repairs... He would fix things around the neighborhood. He would always say ‘we will make a way,’” said Krueger, who stayed in the Philippines three years ago before returning to the United States with his Filipina wife.

It was not the first time that a relative of Krueger’s died in a vehicular in the country. He told GMA News Online that one of his cousins also died in a bus accident in the Philippines 10 years ago.

“My family to this day is struggling with the courts for justice, almost 10 years later. This is why I feel a sense of hopelessness. It seems that the laws in the Philippines only protect the rich and there is no accountability,” he said in an email.

Despite this, Krueger still believes that this can all be changed one step at a time, starting with holding the Don Mariano bus company accountable.

“If they are forced to accept responsibility, then it will be easier for future victims to get justice, and it will raise the standard of how businesses right what they have done wrong,” he said.

The bus tragedy was one of the worst road accidents in the Philippines in 2013. The bus’ driver, Carmelo Calatcat, succumbed to his injuries on Dec. 23, making him the 19th fatality. ■ Andrei Medina / KBK, GMA News / December 27, 2013 / 4:45 PM

Justice for Tatay

IMMIGRATION / OFNEWS

Pinay singer in UAE gets big break recording song on cultural diversity A Dubai-based Filipina singer has been chosen as one of the 22 artists from all over the world who will record a song celebrating the diversity of cultures thriving in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Virginia Sanchez, known as La Ghie to the Filipino community in the Middle East, will be recording “We are the Emirates” at the Opera studio in Dubai next month.

Eleven foreign artists—including India’s Asha Bhosle, Morocco’s Houda Saad and French-Spanish singer Batista—will join her in the studio to sing the original composition in their respective native languages.

UAE advertising giant Heat Creative Media Group, which commissioned the song, said in a statement that they tapped foreign artists to sing “We are the Emirates” to reflect the cultural diversity thriving in the region. “[The] song is a tribute to the vision of the UAE [as a] beacon of the peace, solidarity, unity, love of culture, diversity and modernity, which are shared by [its] residents,” it said.

Born in Pangasinan, Sanchez joined several local and national singing competitions before deciding to fly to Japan in 2003 to try her luck as a professional singer. After a short stint as a backup singer for several bands, Sanchez moved to Qatar to perform for Filipino expatriates.

Soon, Sanchez—who was already making waves in the Middle East music scene as La Ghie—became an in-demand singer at events and concerts. Her singing prowess allowed her to travel to several countries in Eastern Europe, including Albania, Macedonia and Kosovo.

Her rendition of the famous Albanian song “Moj E Bukura,” which means “Beautiful Remix” in English, has received

US welcomes deal on relocating air base in Japan

WASHINGTON - Pentagon chief Chuck Hagel on Friday praised a decision by Japanese officials to allow the relocation of a US air base in Okinawa, calling it a “milestone” for relations with Tokyo.

Hagel welcomed the approval of the long-delayed move of the US Marine Corps base, which he said would permit a redeployment of American forces in the area and bolster Washington’s strategic “rebalance” to the Asia-Pacific region.

“Reaching this milestone is a clear demonstration to the region that the alliance is capable of handling complex, difficult problems in order to deal effectively with 21st century security challenges,” Hagel said in a statement.

“Our alliance has helped underwrite regional peace, stability, and prosperity for more than half a century, and resolving these years-long issues will enable us to take our relationship to the next level as we revise the guidelines for US-Japan defense cooperation,” he said.

After more than 17 years of debate and political wrangling, the local government in Okinawa has given a green light to moving the Futenma air station from a densely populated urban area to a new facility to be constructed on the coast.

Hagel said he had told Japanese officials that the Pentagon was “committed to working with the government of Japan to build a strong

and sustainable US military presence with less impact on the people of Okinawa.”

Relocating the controversial air base is part of a plan to cut back the overall US military presence in Okinawa. The Pentagon plans to reduce the number of Marines on the island from 18,000 to about 10,000 in coming years, with some redeployed to Australia and the US territory of Guam.

Resolving the future of the air base in Okinawa clears the way for Washington’s so-called “pivot” to Asia, with plans to deploy more ships and troops in the Pacifi c.

“The realignment effort is absolutely critical to the United States’ ongoing rebalance to the Asia-Pacific region and our ability to maintain a geographically distributed, operationally resilient, and politically sustainable force posture in the region,” Hagel said.

The rebalance is designed to counter China’s growing military might and influence in the Pacific, amid growing tensions over territorial disputes.

US defense officials called Japan’s decision a landmark step that eliminated the last political hurdle to the relocation and removed a time-consuming issue from Washington-Tokyo relations.

“It opens up the bandwidth at a senior level for other issues to be discussed,” said a senior official, who spoke on

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

condition of anonymity.

The agreement calls for moving to a new base on Okinawa’s northern coast by 2022 but if Japanese construction efforts move at a faster pace, the United States would be ready to move earlier, officials said.

Republican lawmaker John McCain, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, said the decision was a “major achievement for Okinawa, for Japan, and for the US-Japan alliance— an achievement for which Prime Minister (Shinzo) Abe and his administration also deserve much credit.”

McCain also said it was crucial that the estimated cost of the relocation of the base be “strictly adhered to over the years ahead.” ■ AFP

US Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel speaks to reporters at Al Udeid air base in Qatar. Hagel ended his six day trip in Qatar, meeting with the Emir, military officials, and visiting with US Troops stationed there. Photo by Mark Wilson.

Virginia Sanchez, or La Ghie, has been described as the ‘Aegis of Dubai,’ referring to a famous female band in the Philippines. Photo from Facebook

positive reviews from critics. In particular, the Albanian news magazine Panorama hailed Sanchez’s version of the song as “beautiful and even better than the version [sung] by Albanian singers.”

Despite receiving various invitations to travel overseas for singing engagements, Sanchez still takes the time to perform for events and concerts organized by the Filipino community in Dubai as a way of showing her pride in being a Filipino. In 2012, she was featured as a guest in the UAE concerts of Filipino comedian Pooh and actor Aljur Abrenica.

At the prodding of her friends and fans, Sanchez held her first concert earlier this year at the Comedy Junction in Dubai. The 34-year-old has hinted on her Facebook page that she will hold another concert soon “due to popular demand.”

Sanchez’s solo rendition of “We are the Emirates” will be included in a special CD to be formally launched on January 30, 2014 at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. An international launch will be held in February at the Palais des Festival in Cannes, France.

■ Xianne Arcangel / KBK, GMA News / December 26,

2013 / 3:55 PM

UAE court sentences driver to 10 years for raping Pinay helper

A United Arab Emirates court this week sentenced a Syrian driver to 10 years in jail after it found him guilty of raping a Filipina maid on her first work day last May. The Dubai Court of First Instance convicted the driver of having sex with the maid against her will, UAE-based news site Gulf News reported Thursday.

Presiding judge Maher Salama Al Mahdi also ordered the Syrian, 32, deported once he serves his sentence, the report said.

However, the driver insisted he “did not do that” as he pleaded innocent before the court.

The ruling handed down on Wednesday is subject to appeal within 15 days.

Court records showed the rape occurred May 25, a day after the 22-year-old Filipina arrived in Dubai to work as a house cleaner.

Prosecutors argued the defendant surprised the Filipina while she was cleaning his television set. They said he grabbed her from behind and pushed her on the bed, then raped her.

For her part, the Filipina said she started working for a house cleaning company on May 25. She said the incident happened at the Syrian’s home in Jebel Ali.

She said the driver allowed her in to clean his house, for two hours for Dh70.

She said he gave her Dh100 after she finished, but she told him she did not have change.

“He asked me to keep the change and gave me biscuits, a moisturizer and sun cream. When I went towards the door wanting to leave, he told me that the two hours did not finish. He asked me to clean the television… once I turned my back to clean the television set, he grabbed me from behind and then raped me on his bed,” she said.

The Filipina said she tried to defend herself but he overpowered her. She said she told her superiors what happened.

An Emirati police lieutenant said the Filipina cried when she accused the driver of rape. The lieutenant said the driver was arrested but denied the allegations.

Instead, he claimed the Filipina seduced him, and that their sex was consensual.

The policeman said the driver claimed the Filipina lured him “to have consensual sex with him while she was cleaning.” ■ LBG, GMA News / December 27, 2013 / 8:36 AM

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We Like To Move It

HEALTH and Lifestyle

people] Life after cancer “[Some are scared to 22

www.hello-philippines.com

BEATING cancer can be physically and emotionally tough, and sometimes the journey doesn’t end when you get the all-clear. For many people, adjusting to life beyond cancer can be difficult, with a new set of challenges to face.

I’ve been given the all-clear. Why do I feel so down?

There is no right or wrong way to feel. Everyone’s experience of surviving cancer will feel slightly different – it depends on your personality, personal circumstances and what type of cancer and treatment you have had. But for most people it’s an emotional experience.

Some people feel able to resume their life easily when their cancer treatment finishes and can put the experience behind them. Some are so pleased to have survived cancer that they relish their cancer-free life with renewed vigour. But for many others, the physical and emotional impact of their cancer experience hits home when it’s all over. In fact, 40% of people who’ve experienced cancer report a significant level of anxiety or depression following the completion of treatment.

According to Dr. Frances Goodhart, consultant clinical psychologist and author of ‘The Cancer Survivor’s Companion’, this is a very natural response.

“When you find out you have cancer, it can all happen very quickly – the diagnosis followed by treatment decisions within days – and then you often go through a gruelling time getting through the treatments with loved ones and healthcare professionals all around you, helping you through it. It’s only afterwards, when your support team has gone and you have the time to think about what you’ve been through, that you feel the effects.”

COMMON FEELINGS AND EXPERIENCES AFTER CANCER: Your emotions. You may find that you are trying to cope with anxiety, low mood, depression, anger or a mixture of negative emotions.

There are many reasons why this might be the case. Dr. Goodhart explains that, “It’s very common to feel frightened or vulnerable, sad or angry because of what’s happened to you. I’ve known patients to feel lost when their treatment is over and they’re no longer getting support from their cancer care team, or lonely because friends and family can be wonderful but they don’t always understand the trauma you’ve been through.

“Others are scared to be happy in case the cancer comes back, and it’s also common to feel confused about how to fit back into your life because your role and your relationships have had to change during your treatment.

“On top of that, people often feel guilty about those feelings because their family and their doctors have worked so hard to get them to that point, and they feel terrible for not feeling as happy as everyone else that they’ve got through it. And so it’s common to put on a front to protect friends and family, and they [cancer survivors] can end up feeling quite isolated.

“Some of these emotions do resolve over time, but time alone is not always the answer. A lot of the distress does fade into the background over time, but you may need to find ways to manage it in whatever way suits you.”

For tips to help with feeling more positive, see ‘Advice on coping after cancer’ below.

Physical changes. You may also be dealing with some physical changes that have resulted from cancer or cancer treatment. Changes to your body might include hair loss, weight loss or gain, scarring, loss of a limb or breast, loss of sexual function, or having a colostomy bag.

Whether your body has changed in a way that is visible to others or not, it can be a lot to come to terms with and adapt to. Your body and your appearance can have a big impact on how you feel about yourself and how you think others

perceive you. Your self-esteem may have taken quite a knock and this can affect your confidence in a number of ways – for example at work, in social situations and in your relationships.

However, it is possible to come to terms with your body changes. Find more information below in ‘Advice on coping after cancer’.

Fatigue. Cancer and cancer treatments can also leave you feeling fatigued (overwhelmingly tired).

According to Dr. Goodhart, “At least threequarters of people going through cancer treatment say that they experience it, and the majority of those continue to feel fatigued after treatment ends.”

Fatigue can be long-lasting and disrupt many areas of your life, so it’s important not to ignore it. Instead, listen to your body and give yourself time to adjust. Dr. Goodhart recommends trying the “3 Ps” – prioritise, plan and pace yourself – as a way of coping until the fatigue starts to lift. Try making a plan each day, prioritising the most important things you would like to achieve, and stick to it. If you find certain tasks take it out of you, pace yourself by reducing the amount you do.

At the same time, being physically active can help to reduce your fatigue, if you go about it in the right way. Start with a small amount of physical activity and gradually increase it over time.

Don’t do more than you feel able to. The type of exercise you choose can also be important. For more information, read Macmillan’s advice about exercise after cancer treatment.

ADVICE ON COPING AFTER CANCER: Talking and support. Not everyone likes to talk about their feelings or how difficult they’re finding a situation. If this is you, don’t feel obliged to open up. You may find that working through the hard times by yourself or expressing yourself more privately through art or music works best for you.

But for many of us, talking to someone about a distressing experience provides

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

be happy in case the cancer comes back.”

—Dr. Frances Goodhart

an opportunity to let off steam, let out difficult feelings, receive support and get a different perspective on things.

Who you talk to depends on your circumstances and how you’re feeling.

Some people are most comfortable with their partner or a close family member, while others find it hard to admit their true feelings and worries to their loved ones.

Dr. Goodhart explains: “For some people, talking to someone they’re not close to allows them to let their guard down and admit just how tricky it [coping after cancer] is sometimes.”

You might feel that you would like to talk to a healthcare professional or to people who have been through similar experiences to you, and there are a number of ways you can find them. You can discuss your feelings and get advice and support from: • Your cancer care team – when you finish your treatment they can give you advice on where to go for further support.

Depending on your area, they may be able to refer you to a psychologist who specialises in cancer care.

• Support groups – post-cancer support groups are increasingly available and can be a very positive experience for people who attend. These support groups tend to be very informal and provide a place for people to chat, swap experiences and offer advice and support to each other, if they feel like it.

It is generally acceptable to just sit and listen if you prefer. Find a group near you.

• Cancer support centres such as Maggie’s Centres provide relaxed and informal environments to meet other people who have or have had cancer.

• You can also blog about your experiences and chat to people online via Maggie’s online centre.

Further advice on coping after cancer You may also find the following advice helpful for coping with the physical and emotional after-effects of cancer: • Recognise what you’ve been through and how well you have done.

• Don’t be hard on yourself.

• Give yourself permission to grieve for what you’ve lost and, if it feels right for you, find someone you feel you can talk to about it.

• Don’t avoid the issue – we all avoid doing things we find hard, but by doing this difficult feelings can build up and fester.

• Try to give yourself a goal – something you know you need to do, such as accepting a part of your body that has changed – and gradually build up to it.

For example, Dr. Goodhart suggests, “If you don’t want to go out because you’re worried about being stared at, start by making a list of things you could say to any comments people might make, and go out with a friend or partner to a local café for 10 minutes. Then increase the length and frequency of your outings.”

• Re-build your self-esteem – focus on your achievements and take time to assess all the good things that you have done and still have to offer.

• Learn to trust your body again – Dr. Goodhart explains: “Confidence in your own body can be very damaged by cancer. Your body can feel as though it’s failed you and can’t be trusted. Every twinge may feel like a sign that the cancer has returned. But you can re-learn your body’s signals and, in time, start to have confidence in yourself as a ‘healthy person’ like you did before the cancer.”

• Try some exercise – when you feel up to it, regular exercise can help you to combat low mood and help you feel physically stronger. Read more about the benefits of exercise on the Macmillan webpage ‘Exercise during and after cancer’.

• Get further advice on tackling depression, anxiety or anger – if you’re struggling or worried, talk to your GP or cancer care team. They can discuss diagnosis and treatment options with you, such as talking therapies and medication.

Further information • ‘The Cancer Survivor’s Companion’,

by Dr. Frances Goodhart (book) • Exercise for depression • Five steps to mental wellbeing • Healthy eating for depression • Living with cancer • Macmillan – cancer support groups • Macmillan – videos on the benefits of physical activity after cancer ■ NHS Choices

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HEALTH and Lifestyle food

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

What are superfoods?

WE examine the evidence behind the health claims of 10 of the most popular so-called superfoods.

So-called, because in fact there is no official definition of a superfood and the EU has banned the use of the word on packaging.

But that hasn’t stopped many food brands from funding academics to research the health benefits of their product.

The superfood trend exploits the fact that healthy lifestyle choices, including diet, can reduce our risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, stroke and cancer.

The food industry wants to persuade us that eating some foods can slow down the ageing process, lift depression, boost our physical ability and even our intelligence.

Many of us want to believe that eating a single fruit or vegetable containing a certain antioxidant will zap a diseased cell.

The problem is that most research on superfoods tests chemicals and extracts

in concentrations not found in the food in its natural state.

Garlic, for example, contains a nutrient believed to help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure. But you’d have to eat up to 28 cloves a day to match the doses used in the lab – something no researcher has yet been brave enough to try.

Foods that have been elevated to superfood status in recent years include those rich in antioxidants (such as betacarotene, vitamins A, C, E, flavanoids and selenium) and omega-3 fatty acids.

Antioxidants are chemicals thought to protect against the harmful effects of free radicals, which are chemicals naturally produced in every living cell and known to cause cell damage.

However, evidence about the health benefits of antioxidants is far from conclusive and there is evidence that antioxidant supplements may be harmful (PDF, 2.71Mb).

While the miracle food remains a fantasy, it’s pretty well established that

obesity and alcohol are the two most common causes of major long-term illness and an increased risk of premature death.

Importance of a balanced diet. Diet plays an important role in our health, but there is concern that too much focus on individual foods may encourage unhealthy eating.

“No food, including those labelled ‘superfoods’, can compensate for unhealthy eating,” explains Alison Hornby, a dietitian and spokesperson for the British Dietetic Association (BDA).

“If people mistakenly believe they can ‘undo’ the damage caused by unhealthy foods by eating a superfood, they may continue making routine choices that are unhealthy and increase their risk of longterm illness.”

Dietitians avoid the term superfood and prefer to talk of “super diets”, where the emphasis is on a healthy balanced diet, rich in fruit and vegetables and wholegrain foods.

When it comes to a healthy balanced

diet, there is very good evidence that the Mediterranean diet can reduce the risk of some chronic diseases and increase life expectancy.

This diet includes plenty of fruit and vegetables, olive oil and legumes, and less meat and dairy foods than the typical Western diet.

Hornby says: “When it comes to keeping healthy, it’s best not to concentrate on any one food in the hope it will work miracles.

“All unprocessed food from the major food groups could be considered ‘super’.

All these foods are useful as part of a balanced diet.

“You should eat a variety of foods, as described by the Eatwell plate, to ensure

you get enough of the nutrients your body needs. Focusing on getting your five portions of fruit and vegetables a day is a perfect way to start.”

We’ve teamed up with the BDA to look at the best available research to see if the health claims of 10 popular “superfoods” add up: • blueberries • goji berries • chocolate • oily fish • wheatgrass • pomegranate juice • green tea • broccoli • garlic • beetroot ■ NHS Choices

important to know Reduce your cancer risk It’s your body and recognise

YOU can reduce your risk of cancer by having a healthy lifestyle. Find out about stopping smoking, eating a healthy diet, keeping fit and drinking less alcohol.

In 2009, 156,900 people in the UK died from cancer. However, since the 1990s, survival rates in men and women have improved for most cancers.

There are no proven ways to prevent cancer, but you can reduce your risk of getting it. Risk factors you can do something about include smoking and being overweight, and there are other things you can do to reduce your risk.

Healthy lifestyle. Leading a healthy lifestyle can help lower your risk of developing certain cancers. You can do this by: • eating a healthy balanced diet • maintaining a healthy weight • drinking less alcohol • stopping smoking • protecting your skin from sun damage Eating a healthy balanced diet.

Stories about various foods and diets linked to preventing cancer are often in the news. This is because a lot of research is going on into diet and cancer.

But it isn’t easy to study the link between diet and cancer because there are so many different factors involved, and cancer can take years to develop.

No single food or supplement can prevent cancer from developing. Overall, research shows a link between eating certain groups of foods (rather than any specific foods, vitamins or nutrients) and a reduction in cancer risk.

Eating a healthy balanced diet may lower your risk of developing cancer. A healthy balanced diet contains: • plenty of fruit and vegetables: try to eat at least five portions a day • plenty of bread, rice, potatoes, pasta and other starchy foods: choose

wholegrain foods where possible as these contain more fibre • some meat, fish, eggs, beans and other non-dairy sources of protein • some milk and dairy foods • just a small amount of foods and drinks high in fat or sugars, such as cakes, crisps and biscuits Eating a healthy balanced diet will help make sure your body gets all the nutrients it needs.

Fibre. Evidence consistently suggests that eating plenty of fibre can reduce the risk of bowel cancer. Diets high in fibre can help keep your bowel healthy and prevent constipation.

Fibre-rich foods include wholegrain pasta, bread, breakfast cereals and rice.

Pulses, fruit and vegetables are also good sources of fibre.

Red and processed meat. Meat is a good source of protein, vitamins and minerals, such as iron and zinc. But evidence shows that there is probably a link between eating red and processed meat, and the risk of bowel cancer.

People who eat a lot of these meats have a higher risk of getting bowel cancer than people who eat small amounts.

Beef, pork and lamb are all red meat. Processed meats include bacon, sausages, salami and ham.

If you eat more than 90 grams of red

or processed meat a day (the equivalent of about three thin-cut slices of roast beef, lamb or pork, where each slice is about the size of half a piece of sliced bread), it is recommended that you cut down to 70 grams. You can find out more about eating red and processed meat.

Beta-carotene supplements. Betacarotene, often found in antioxidant supplements, has been found to increase the risk of lung cancer developing in smokers and people who have been heavily exposed to asbestos at work. It is possible that taking large amounts of beta-carotene supplements would also increase the risk of cancer in other people.

Maintaining a healthy weight. In England, over 60% of the population is overweight or obese. Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of some cancers, such as: • bowel cancer • pancreatic cancer • oesophageal cancer • breast cancer if you are a woman who has been through the menopause • cancer of the womb (uterus) • kidney cancer Being a healthy weight can reduce your risk of developing cancer. You can find out whether you are a healthy weight by using the BMI healthy weight

any changes, such as lumps or unexplained bleeding, and get advice about whether they might be serious calculator.

Drinking less alcohol. Drinking alcohol is known to increase your risk of some cancers, including: • mouth cancer • pharynx and larynx cancer • oesophageal cancer • colorectal cancer in men • breast cancer It is probably a cause of other cancers such as colorectal cancer in women and liver cancer.

Women shouldn’t regularly drink more than 2-3 units of alcohol a day, and men shouldn’t regularly drink more than 3-4 units a day.

“Regularly” means every day or on most days of the week. Use the alcohol unit calculator to find out how many units are in different alcoholic drinks.

Stopping smoking. Lung cancer is responsible for around a quarter of cancer deaths in the UK, and 90% of lung cancer cases are related to smoking.

“Stopping smoking greatly cuts the risk of developing cancer,” says Hazel Nunn, Cancer Research UK’s health information officer. “The earlier you stop, the greater the impact. But it’s never too late to quit. People who quit smoking at 30 live nearly as long as non-smokers, and those who quit at 50 can still undo half the damage.”

There is support to help you stop smoking.

Protect your skin from sun damage.

Taking care in the sun so that you don’t get burned is important for preventing skin cancer. Follow Cancer Research UK’s SunSmart plan to protect yourself: • Spend time in the shade between 11am and 3pm.

• Make sure you never burn.

• Cover yourself up with a T-shirt, hat and sunglasses.

• Take care not to let children get burned.

• Use sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.

Keep an eye on any moles or freckles you have. If they change at all (for example, get bigger or begin bleeding), see your GP as this can be an early sign of cancer. The earlier skin cancer is caught, the easier it is to treat, so see your GP as soon as possible.

We need sunlight on our skin so that our bodies can produce vitamin D, which is essential for healthy bones. Read about sunlight and vitamin D to find out how much sunlight you need.

Know your body. It’s important to know your body and recognise any changes, such as lumps or unexplained bleeding, and to get advice about whether they might be serious. ■ NHS Choices

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CELEBRITY, SHOWBIZ & ENTERTAINMENT SCOOP

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

‘10,000 Hours’ sweeps MMFF awards; Robin Padilla, Maricel Soriano win top acting honors TURNING down a chance to direct two of the Metro Manila Film Festival’s certified blockbusters in “My Little Bossings” and “Kimmy Dora: Ang Kiyemeng Prequel”, director Joyce Bernal instead opted to try something different in “10,000 Hours”.

The gambit paid off handsomely as the veteran filmmaker not only won her first Best Director trophy since helming her first film in 1998, her film also swept most of the MMFF awards at ceremonies held at the Meralco theater Friday night.

In her acceptance speech, Direk Joyce remembered to thank former senator and now Yolanda rehabilitation czar Panfilo Lacson for trusting her with his story.

“10,000 Hours” is a fictionalized account of the senator’s life on the run after being charged with the Dacer-Corbito double murder case during the Arroyo administration.

The film won a total of 14 awards, including Best Picture, Best Story, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Supporting Actor for Pen Medina and Best Actor for Robin Padilla.

It is Robin’s first Best Actor award since 2006 when he won the FAMAS, Gawad Urian and the Golden Screen awards for his lead role in “La Visa Loca”. In “10,000 Hours”, he plays a senator who went into hiding in Amsterdam after being framed for a murder he didn’t commit by no less than the president of the Philippines.

“10,000 Hours” is also the first time Robin and Direk Joyce worked together on a project after working together four times in the films “Tunay na Tunay: Gets Mo, Gets Ko”, “Kailangan Ko’y Ikaw”, “Buhay Kamao” and “Pagdating ng Panahon” from the year 2000 to 2001.

“I’ve read both the scripts of ‘Kimmy

Dora’ and ‘My Little Bossings’. Dito lang talaga ako sa ‘10,000 Hours’ na-challenge, na para ma-iba lang talaga. Medyo naging mahirap ang desisyon kasi kaibigan ko si Kris Aquino and then company namin ang nag-produce ng ‘Kimmy Dora’ pero eto talaga ang gusto ko at nabiyayaan naman,” Direk Joyce told InterAksyon in a post-awards interview.

While the night clearly belonged to “10,000 Hours”, top grosser “My Little Bossings” bagged four awards namely 3rd Best Picture, Best Theme Song, Best Child Performer for Ryzza Mae Dizon and Best Supporting Actress for Aiza Seguerra.

“Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy” won three awards: 2nd Best Picture, Best Actress for Maricel Soriano and Most Gender-Sensitive Film. The multi-awarded Diamond Star last won the MMFF Best Actress trophy in 2011 for Jun Lana’s “Yesterday, Today, Tomorrow”. She was not around to accept her award, though.

“Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” won Best Make-Up and the Youth Choice Award as selected by the National Youth Commission.

Other than the Best Festival Float honors, “Boy Golden Shoot to Kill: The Arturo Porcuna Story” failed to win any major and technical award. The film had received favorable reviews from critics and had been considered a strong contender for the top honors.

Films that failed to win a single award were “Kimmy Dora: Ang Kiyemeng Prequel”, “Pedro Calungsod: Batang Martir” and “Kaleidoscope World”.

Just like last year, the awards night was hosted by Kris Aquino and KC Concepcion.

Kris happily announced that according to Metro Manila Development Authority

Chairman Francis Tolentino, the opening day gross of this year’s film festival is 12 percent higher compared to last year’s opening day receipts.

The complete winners: Best Picture – “10,000 Hours” 3rd Best Picture Award – “My Little Bossings” 2nd Best Picture Award – “Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy” Best Director – Bb. Joyce Bernal for “10,000 Hours” Best Actor – Robin Padilla for “10,000 Hours” Best Actress – Maricel Soriano for “Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy” Best Supporting Actor – Pen Medina for “10,000 Hours” Best Supporting Actress – Aiza Seguerra for “My Little Bossings” Best Child Performer- Ryzza Mae Dizon for “My Little Bossings” Best Story – Neil Arce, Peter Serrano, Bela Padilla and Bb. Joyce Bernal for “10,000 Hours” Best Screenplay – Ryllah Epifania Berico and Keiko A. Aquino for “10,000 Hours” Best Visual Effects – Central Digital Lab for “10,000 Hours” Best Production Design – Joey Luna for “10,000 Hours” Best Editor- Marya Ignacio for “10,000 Hours” Best Cinematography – Marissa Floirendo for “10,000 Hours” Best Sound Engineer – Emmanuel Clemente for “10,000 Hours” Best Musical Score – Teresa Barrozo for “10,000 Hours” Best Theme Song – Jan K. Ilacad for “My Little Bossings”

The cast and crew of ‘10000 Hours’ led by Robin Padilla and director Joyce Bernal (front row, third from right) after the conclusion of the MMFF awards night on Friday. Photo by Teddy Pelaez.

Best Make-up – Benny Batoctoy and Mountain Rock Productions for “Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” Best Festival Float – “Boy Golden Shoot to Kill: The Arturo Porcuna Story” FPJ Memorial Award for Excellence – “10,000 Hours” Gat Puno Villegas Cultural Award – “10,000 Hours” Most Gender-sensitive Film – “Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy” (Main) National Youth Commission Youth Choice Award – “Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” Best Picture for New Wave Full Length – “Dukit” Best Director for New Wave Full Length – Armando Lao for “Dukit” Best Actress for New Wave – Agot Isidro for “Mga Anino ng Kahapon” Best Actors for New Wave – Bambalito Lacap, Willy Layug, Bor Ocampo for

“Dukit” New Wave Best Student Short Film Special Jury Prize – “#NoFilter” by Mapua Institute of Technology New Wave Short Film Best Picture – “Ang Paglisan” by La Salle Lipa Special Jury Prize for New Wave Animation – “Ang Lalong ni Kulakog” by Omar Aguilar Best Animated Picture – “Kaleh and Mbaki” by Dennis Sebastian Most Gender-sensitive Film – “Island Dreams” (New Wave) Most Gender-sensitive Film – “Hintayin Mo sa Seq. 24” (Students Category) Special Recognition Award – Optical Media Board Chairman Ronnie Ricketts Mavshack Male Star of the Night – Daniel Padilla Mavshack Female Star of the Night – Eugene Domingo ■ Edwin P. Sallan / InterAksyon.com / December 28, 2013 / 12:48 PM

‘My Little Bossings’ tops MMFF box office on Christmas Day opening LOOKS like Bossing Vic Sotto made the right call in retiring Enteng Kabisote, at least for the meantime.

As tweeted Wednesday by the official Twitter account of the Metro Manila Film Festival, Sotto’s latest, non-fantasy comedy “My Little Bossings”, is the top grosser for the first day of the annual Christmas season mainstream film festival.

The film starring the actor-comedian known as Bossing together with Kris Aquino, child wonder Ryzza Mae Dizon and, in his silver screen debut, Kris’s son, Bimby Aquino-Yap, is a marked departure from the “Enteng Kabisote” series that has become an MMFF staple in recent years.

Produced by Sotto’s M-Zet Productions together with APT Entertainment, OctoArts Films and his co-star’s Kris Aquino Productions, it is also the first time Bossing is not directed in many years by Tony Y. Reyes and is instead helmed by Marlon Rivera of “Ang Babae Sa Septic Tank” fame.

At number 2 is Vice Ganda’s “Girl, Boy, Bakla, Tomboy”, which is expected to be the top grosser of the filmfest after Vice hit paydirt with the record-breaking gross of “Sisterakas” last year. “Girl Boy

Bimby Aquino-Yap and Ryzza Mae Dizon in a scene from ‘My Little Bossings’.

Bakla Tomboy” is again directed by Wenn V. Deramas who helmed all of the gay comedian’s biggest blockbusters. Vice’s fans are optimistic that the film will catch up and eventually overtake “My Little Bossings” in the tills in the days to come.

Despite the rather disappointing showing of “Shake, Rattle & Roll 14” last year, which was fourth among the top MMFF box office receipts, horror remains a formidable genre in the filmfest as “Pagpag: Siyam na Buhay” has proven,

placing third among the opening day top grossers. Either that or the Daniel PadillaKathryn Bernardo love team is a force to reckon with in the box office.

The horror film’s showing is quite surprising considering that “Kimmy Dora: Ang Kiyemeng Prequel” is expected to do better than its fourth place standing to date. Being the third installment of a proven blockbuster franchise, it also stars a bonafide star in comedienne Eugene Domingo who has already starred in three

films (“Instant Mommy”, “Momzillas” and Status: It’s Complicated”) for the second half of the year.

Fans of the film hope it will continue to contend for box office supremacy as favorable feedback on social media start pouring in.

Outside of the rankings, no official

figures have been posted by the MMFF yet.

The other entries of the filmfest, namely “10,000 Hours”, “Boy Golden Shoot to Kill: The Arturo Porcuna Story”, “Kaleidoscope World” and “Pedro Calungsod: Batang Martir”, have not been ranked according to box office performance. ■ Edwin P. Sallan / InterAksyon.com / December 26, 2013 / 5:00 PM

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CELEBRITY, SHOWBIZ & ENTERTAINMENT SCOOP

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Red Hot Chili Peppers to headline music fest in Pampanga for benefit of Yolanda survivors THE Red Hot Chili Peppers, the legendary American rock band that was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012, will headline the 7107 International Music Festival that will take place in Clark, Pampanga on February 22 and 23 next year.

Formed in 1983, the Chili Peppers or RHCP as they are best known to fans, rose to prominence with their unique fusion of rock and funk with occasional elements of psychedelia, metal and punk rock thrown in for good measure.

The band reached the peak of their popularity in 1991 with their fourth studio album “Blood Sugar Sex Magik”, which was certified seven times platinum in the US, and the anthemic hit single, “Under The Bridge”.

RHCP’s following never actually declined since then as all studio albums (“One Hot Minute”, “Californication”, “By The Way”, “Stadium Arcadium” and “I’m With You”) that followed all made the top 5 of the Billboard Hot 200 album chart in the US. Aside from “Under The Bridge”, the band’s other best known songs include “Give It Away”, “Soul To Squeeze”, “Scar Tissue”, “Otherside”, “Californication”,

“By The Way”, “The Zephyr Song”, “Can’t Stop”, “Dani California” and their covers of Stevie Wonder’s “Higher Love” and the Ohio Players’ “Love Rollercoaster”.

The current line-up consists of founding members and high school classmates Anthony Kiedes and Flea on vocals and bass respectively, longtime drummer Chad Smith, and Josh Klinghoffer, who officially replaced founding guitarist John Frusciante in 2009.

Aside from RHCP, other performers that are confirmed to perform at the music festival include Australian electronic duo Empire of the Sun, Danish pop band The Asteroids Galaxy Tour, American alternative group Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, who previously performed in Manila, the UKbased pop-rock outfit the Natives and local favorites Up Dharma Down and Radioactive Sago Project.

“Part of the proceeds will be used to rebuild, rehabilitate and fund relief projects for Typhoon Yolanda victims, a fantastic cause, which we’re proud to be a part of,” The Natives posted on their Facebook page.

The Red Hot Chili Peppers are already doing their share for the calamity victims.

The band is part of the all-star album “Songs for the Philippines” released last month to raise money for the typhoon victims in Leyte, Samar and other affected areas in the South.

RHCP’s contribution to the compilation is the song, “Factory of Faith”.

The two-day outdoor music festival will officially commence at noontime of February 22 at the Global Gateway Logistics City in Clark, Pampanga. According to the event’s official website at 7107imf.com, the concert

will consist of “two stages presenting a spectacular lineup of both international and local artists carefully handpicked to satisfy every musical craving”.

“In this world of live music, thrills, adventure, good eats, and people from around the globe, the only way to transcend the different cultures is through one language called music. Make sure to be there once the clock strikes noon,” the site also posted.

The poster for the 7107 International Music Festival, which is set for February 22-23, 2014 in Clark, Pampanga.

In addition to pre-selling tickets that are good for the entire duration of the festival (priced at 8,500 for general admission and 20,000 for VIP access), the event’s official site are also accepting cash donations for typhoon Yolanda survivors. ■ Edwin P. Sallan / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 11:25 AM

KC Concepcion considers ‘Boy Golden’ one of her most fulfilling projects to date ONE of the most surprising things about the movies of Laguna Gov. ER Ejercito (billed under his screen name Jeorge Estregan) is his choice of leading ladies.

He surprised everyone when he handpicked Carla Abellana and Valerie Concepcion in “Manila Kingpin: The Asiong Salonga Story” in 2011. Last year, he went with Cristine Reyes and superstar Nora Aunor in “El Presidente”.

For his third straight Metro Manila Film Festival entry where he once again headlines another gangster biopic in “Boy Golden: Shoot to Kill”, Governor ER went with another unlikely choice of love interest: KC Concepcion.

Playing the role of Marla Dee, a stripper who became the wife of Arturo Porcuna, the notorious gang leader in the 1960s played by

Ejercito, KC admitted that this is easily her most daring role to date.

“But not daring for the sake of showing skin or daring for the sake of being sexy. I guess daring in the sense that I’m playing a stripper, a dancer in this film. Daring also in the sense that I’ve never been this physical or have done this much action scenes in any of my movies”, she told a group of entertainment bloggers and media during the Glorietta leg of the recent mall tour to promote the film.

She admits that rather than being

KC Concepcion and her leading man, ER ‘Jeorge Estregan’ Ejercito.

described as “daring” which is a word she’s obviously not comfortable with, she prefers to call her latest career moves as “more outgoing, more exploratory, maybe more willing and more of a risk-taker” on her part.

More than the stripper side of the character, KC said what really excited her about the role is that Marla actually fought side by side with Boy Golden in his exploits.

“There’s a female fighter, femme fatale element na hindi normal na nakikita sa mga action movies kaya rin ako na-excite sa role,” KC pointed out. “Siya yung babae na hindi lang martyr na naghihintay lang sa lalaki pagkatapos niyang lumaban. She’s there with the boys, fighting with the boys.”

To prepare for the role, KC underwent a three-month crash course of mixed martial arts training from Seng Kawee, a celebrated Hollywood stunt coordinator whose credits include “The Expendables 2”, “Bangkok Dangerous” and “Lara Croft Tomb Raider: The Cradle of Life”.

“Of course, I want to thank Gov. ER for his faith in me. He’s been confident about me from the very beginning, for choosing me for the role of Marla Dee. I also want to thank Direk Chito for training me and giving me directions for my role,” she enthused.

KC added that working with Direk Chito has been a very good experience for her.

“Sa una, sobrang nakakatakot pero nasanay din ako sa style niya, sa perspective niya, sa gusto niyang makita, kung paano niya gustong i-drawing ang eksena. So before he asked for it, mabibigay mo na sa kanya. I think that’s the key to the success of our relationship for this film,” she added.

Aside from her interpretation of Marla’s character and the action sequences that she prepared for, including one thrilling girl-togirl fight scene, there’s also her much-talked about kissing scene with Gov. ER. How does this compare to her mom’s films with the late Fernando Poe, Jr.?

“She never did kissing scenes with FPJ. I guess what sets ‘Boy Golden’ apart from what she’s done before is because I went for it. We never did anything na hindi kailangan sa eksena o hindi kailangan sa istorya. But it’s okay, it was something my character had to do so I’m fine with it.”

Not too many are aware of it but “Boy Golden” is not the first time that the gangster was depicted onscreen. Back in 1978, the late Anthony Alonzo played the role in Danny L. Zialcita’s “Hindi Sa Yo Ang Mundo, Baby Porcuna” which focuses on the sister of Boy

Golden who, like Marla, was also a burlesque dancer.

The film was nominated for several awards in the Gawad Urian and FAMAS awards including Best Supporting Actor citations for Alonzo. Beth Bautista won the Gawad Urian Best Actress for playing the title character.

How does KC feel about getting nominated and even winning the MMFF Best Actress for this film, something Ejercito said she very much deserves in his own interviews?

“For what it’s worth, with or without awards, this is one of the most fulfilling projects I’ve ever done. If only for that, an award would be cherry on top. It would be a level up for me as an actress but if the universe does not agree that I should get it, then that’s okay, too,” she concluded.

Produced by Viva Films and Scenema Concepts International, “Boy Golden: Shoot to Kill” also stars Eddie Garcia, Leo Martinez, Tonton Gutierrez, John Estrada, Gloria Sevilla, Jhong Hilario, Baron Geisler, Joem Bascon, Roi Vinzon, John Lapus, Mon Confiado, Dick Israel, Deborah Sun, Simon Ibarra, Gerald Ejercito, Dexter Doria, Buboy Villar, Juan Miguel Urquico, Lui Manansala, Gerald Acao and Mike Lloren. ■ Edwin P. Sallan / InterAksyon.com / December 24, 2013 / 4:20 PM

Glenda Garcia sa laban niya sa breast cancer: ‘Ako ang nanalo, ako ang nagwagi’

SA Startalk TX nitong Sabado, ipinakita ni Glenda Garcia ang palatandaan kung gaano niya katapang na nilabanan at hinarap ang sakit na breast cancer. Kasabay nito, idineklara ng aktres na siya ang nagwagi sa laban sa kinatatakutang sakit ng mga kababaihan.

Sa panayam ni Butch Francisco kay Glenda sa Startalk TX, binalikan ng aktres ang mga unang araw nang malaman niya na mayroon siyang cancer sa dibdib.

Bago nito, walong taon nang nagbibigay ng counselling si Glenda sa breast cancer patients at hindi raw niya inakala na darating ang araw na magkakaroon din siya ng naturang sakit na nakaapekto sa dalawa niyang dibdib.

Nitong nakaraang Nobyembre lang iniulat sa Startalk na mayroong stage 2 breast cancer si Glenda. Bilang bahagi ng gamutan, sinabi ng aktres na inalis na ang dalawa niyang dibdib.

Sa kabila ng pinagdaang pagsubok, labis ang pasasalamat niya sa nakukuhang suporta sa kaniyang pamilya at maging sa GMA Network dahil hindi siya inalis sa kinabibilangan niyang programa kahit nagpapagamot.

Dahil sumailalim si Glenda sa chemotherapy, nalagas ang kaniyang buhok at nakalbo.

Bagaman gumagamit siya ng wig sa trabaho, nilinaw ng aktres na hindi niya ikinahihiya ang pagkawala ng kaniyang buhok.

Sa panayam sa kaniya ni Butch, inalis ni Glenda ang suot niyang wig.

“Yung pagiging kalbo ko po hindi ko po ikinahihiya dahil ito po ang naglalarawan kung papaano ko po... ganung katapang na hinarap ang cancer ko. At ako ang nanalo, ako ang nagwagi,” matatag na pahayag ng aktres.

“Yung mga scares ko sa dibdib, yung pagiging kalbo ko, ito yung naglalarawan kung gaano ako katapang na nilalabanan ang cancer ko. At gusto ko pong sabihin na ngayon pa lang po’y ina-announce ko po na healed na ako, and I declared it na hindi na babalik ang cancer ko. Ako po ang panalo,” dagdag niya.

Naniniwala si Glenda na inihanda siya

ng Diyos sa pagharap sa naturang sakit sa pamamagitan ng pagbibigay niya ng counselling sa mga breast cancer patient.

Sinabi rin ng aktres na nakapagbigay din sa kaniya ng inspirasyon sa paglaban sa sakit ang mga mahihirap na nakasalamuha niya na mayroon ding breast cancer.

Payo naman ni Glenda sa mga kababaihan, mahalaga ang regular na pagpapatingin sa duktor. At kung matutuklasan na taglay ang sakit, huwag umanong matakot dahil magagamot na breast cancer ngayon kung maaaga itong maagapan.

Binigyan-diin din niya ang kahalagahan ng pananalig sa Diyos.

Sa ginanap na Breast Cancer Awareness

Month nitong nagdaang Oktubre, sinabi na ang Pilipinas ang mayroong pinakamataas na kaso ng breast cancer sa buong Asya. ■ FRJimenez / GMA News / December 28, 2013 / 7:19 PM

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January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Dodging all that Yolanda could throw at him, blind man rebuilds hut that keeps him dry on Christmas TACLOBAN CITY – Steady rains throughout Christmas Day added to the sufferings of the victims of typhoon Yolanda in the coastal barangays of Palo, Tanauan and Tolosa towns in Leyte. Their tents - their temporary shelter since the storm surge and Yolanda’s record winds took away their homes—were flooded with rain water, which made their situation more difficult.

But when we reached Barangay Kapangihan, an interior village in Tolosa town, we met Gregorio Canales, single, 48, who had built all by himself his own temporary shelter—much sturdier than those of others—even though he is totally blind.

Canales’s blindness drew attention when he was checked by the commanding officer of Camp Lukban Station Hospital Medical Corps of the Philippine Army, Lt.

Col. Reynaldo Cruz, MD. Cruz and his medical team had conducted a medical mission in the area.

Canales’ shelter is quite small but remarkable in that it was made better than those done by people without physical defects.

Being independent is nothing new to Canales, who shared his experience at Yolanda’s height with Interaksyon.com. He recalled how he was forced to evacuate to an old barangay hall, all the while trying to dodge flying debris blown by strong winds.

After the typhoon he managed to return to his small hut, only to find out that it was destroyed. Like many other typhoon victims, the blind man was also left homeless and hungry.

But his situation did not last long. He started making his own house by collecting

Gregorio Canales’ shelter is quite small but it is sturdier than some of those built by people without any disabilities. Photos by Bernard Testa

wood and other scrap materials that he thought could form part of his shelter.

Canales told InterAksyon.com he is grateful that God has spared his life, to allow him to live through another Christmas Day; and grateful as well to the organization that helped their barangay.

Meanwhile, Fondacio Philippines and

Christians for the World Asia relief operations team prepared a simple Christmas party for all the residents of Barangay Kapangihan especially the children.

There were games and raffles for children besides the food. According t0 Marie Guenin, a French volunteer of Fondacio, their group regularly conducts

medical missions, relief operations, and counseling for children who are victims of disaster.

Guenin and her fellow volunteers who spent Christmas Day with the children said they are willing to stay until the New Year. ■ Lottie Salarda / InterAksyon.com / December 25, 2013 / 9:06 PM

Focus: Govt workers who survived Yolanda and are helping others need more support NILO’S home was badly damaged and he lost a sibling to super typhoon Yolanda.

He reported to work because he would otherwise lose his job. He helped distribute relief goods that he was not allowed to avail of even when his own family badly needed aid too.

He tries to go about his work even when his roof is just a plastic sheet and he worries how his family is faring every time it rains.

He is bothered because his youngest child does not seem to be getting better but he doesn’t have the time or resources to bring her to Cebu to see a specialist.

As he speaks, he constantly rubs his temple as if willing his constant headache away. He barely gets sleep because he wakes up at the slightest sound at night— worried about robbers. Nilo is exhausted, grieving, anxious and showing signs of acute stress.

Lisa is a civil servant. She has been working non-stop for the past six weeks.

Hearing hundred of stories of trauma, she has become quite numb.

The other day, she went to an ATM and people in line, seeing her uniform, angrily complained to her about the government.

She is glassy-eyed and dead-tired.

Nilo and Lisa are like many government and military personnel in Region 8 who survived Yolanda but have had to go out and help others and who are now badly in need of support themselves. They continue to work but there is a brewing anger and resentment that their employer does not care about them.

Our initial data shows about a quarter of survivors are at risk of developing posttraumatic stress disorders. Vicarious trauma is also a real risk for government workers who constantly deal with survivors.

Survivors only have their stories. Those who care for them bear all their stories.

There is much attention being paid to helping survivors of Yolanda and yet what appears to be missing is concerted support for government and military personnel in the frontlines of delivering that help.

Although there are some agencies that are now beginning to provide support for their personnel, a good part of the support government workers really need is at the level of national policy and strategy.

The prices of basic goods in Tacloban are reported to be three times normal.

Instead of requiring survivors to immediately report for work, could the government not have deployed workers from different regions?

There is talk about a meager fund to help survivors and we wonder whether the 20,000 to 50,000 being bandied about will be enough to rebuild a house. More importantly, government workers who are also typhoon survivors wonder who will rebuild their homes if they are still working in the field.

There is talk that they will be allowed to go on leave but this has yet to be formalized.

Beyond better plans, systems and structures, what government survivors also need is a leadership that recognizes their humanity. Instead of hearing their leaders ask, “Why are you not at work?” couldn’t their leaders first have asked them,“How are you? Are you and your family okay?”

Our government workers are a vital cog in the task of recovery and rebuilding. But if they are to do their jobs and do these well, our government workers who are also storm survivors need to be treated as human beings with needs.

They require resources and psychosocial support. They also need the time to rest and attend to their families and homes. And this support needs to be given before they reach breaking point. ■ Gina Hechanova, president of the Psychological Association of the Philippines and the chair of the Ateneo Department of Psychology/ InterAksyon.com Special / December 26, 2013 / 7:16 PM

384 new HIV/AIDS cases in November Filipinos won’t be needing visas to enter Myanmar starting Jan. 4 MANILA – Myanmar, the only ASEAN the Republic of the Union of Myanmar on brings 2013 tally to almost 5,000 - DOH

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Health registered 384 new cases of HIV/ AIDS in November, bringing the year’s total thus far to 4,456, predominantly young males—not necessarily gay—having sex with other males The Philippine HIV and AIDS Registry, which is maintained by the DOH, showed that, of the newest cases, 379 were acquired through sexual contact, with 96 percent of those infected males and 63 percent from the 20-29-years age group.

Only five cases involved needle sharing among drug users.

The age range of those infected was from 17-59, with the median age being 27 and 104 cases involving youth from 15-24 years old.

MSMs accounted for 83 percent of the infections.

November’s cases were 35 percent higher than the same period last year, when 284 cases were registered.

Of these, 35 cases have progressed to AIDS. Metro Manila accounted for 43 percent of cases, followed by Calabarzon with 17 percent, Central Luzon and Davao with nine percent each, and Western Visayas with five percent.

Of this year’s total cases, 4,222 involved

sexual contact, 1,250 involved youth aged 15-24, and three cases involved children younger than 15.

Another 231 cases involved needle sharing and three were mother-to-child transmission.

Three hundred seven cases progressed to AIDS. Of the 16,158 cases recorded since 1984, 861 patients have died and 307 have acquired full-blown AIDS. The overwhelming number of infections—15,027, or 93 percent— involved sexual contact, four percent (671) were through needle sharing, 20 through blood transfusion and three from needle prick injuries.

Two percent, or 375 cases, were undetermined.

Almost half of all the cases—7,485— were in the National Capital Region. ■ Jet

Villa / InterAksyon.com / December 28, 2013 / 9:31 AM

Myanmar President U Thein Sein shakes hands with President Aquino as he arrives at Malacanang Palace during his state visit last December 5, 2013.

country that required visas of visiting Filipinos, has lifted that requirement starting next year, the Department of Foreign Affairs said. Beginning January 4, 2014, Filipino nationals holding ordinary passports may now enter Myanmar without a visa and stay there for up to 14 days.

On that date, the Agreement between the governments of the Philippines and

the Visa Exemption for Holders of Ordinary Passports takes effect. The accord which was signed during the state visit to the Philippines of Myanmar President U Thein Sein last December 05.

The visa-free entry agreement is expected to boost tourism, trade and investment between the Philippines and Myanmar, DFA said. ■ InterAksyon.com /

December 28, 2013 / 10:31 AM

DMCI wins contract to rehabilitate NAIA 1 The other interested bidders for the NAIA MANILA – DMCI Holdings Inc has bagged the contract to rehabilitate the Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 1 (NAIA 1).

“We have awarded the rehabilitation of NAIA 1 to DMCI. So, we will try our best to complete it. We are really behind but that is our target,” Transport Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya told reporters during the launch of the Metro South Commuter train service to Sta. Rosa Laguna from Tutuban in Manila.

“Once we issued the notice to proceed, they can start early next year, maybe first week of January,” Abaya said, adding that the NAIA 1 rehabilitation can be completed

by December 1 next year in time for the ministerial meeting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation in 2015.

1 rehabilitation were Hillmarcs Corp. and EEI Corp.

The bidding of the 1.16 billion structural retrofitting and rehabilitation of NAIA 1 was originally scheduled last November 15, but was rescheduled to December 20.

Of the total project cost, 340 million will be used to improve the structural integrity of the NAIA 1 building, while 500 million has been allocated for architectural, engineering, and interior design and works to improve the internal facilities.

To address runway congestion, 300 million will be used for the construction of a rapid exit taxiway. Another 20 million is allocated for the complete rehabilitation of 72 toilets.

Earlier, the NAIA 1 was again voted

“worst airport in the world” by followers of the interactive travel site “The Guide to Sleeping in Airports.” ■ Darwin G. Amojelar / InterAksyon.com / December 23, 2013 / 2:06 PM

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PHILIPPINE EMBASSY NEWS AROUND THE WORLD

Secretary Kerry’s Remarks at USAID Tacloban

AMBASSADOR Goldberg: Good morning, everyone. I’m Philip Goldberg, the U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines. I’d like to first thank our distinguished colleagues from the Government of the Philippines who are here, Secretary of Defense Gazmin, Congressman Romualdez, Mayor Romualdez of Tacloban, Ambassador Cuisia, who is here from Washington, and Under Secretary Del Rosario.

So without going any further, let me introduce – we’re very proud and pleased that our Secretary of State is here this morning, and I’ll turn it over to him.

Secretary Kerry: Thank you very much, Mr. Ambassador. Before I begin to talk about Tacloban and what we’ve been seeing, I do want to say something about our concerns regarding the violence in South Sudan over the last 48 hours.

The United States believes very strongly that all parties should refrain from any actions that could further escalate the tensions. The people of South Sudan – and I know this well because I was very involved in the efforts to move to a referendum and to see the South become a nation. I saw it firsthand how devoted and dedicated the people of South Sudan were and are, and how they have endured many years of conflict and sacrifice, far too much for their country to now go backwards and descend back into violence. Political differences need to be resolved by peaceful and democratic means, and those have been hard fought for.

The government should respect the rule of law, and the people of South Sudan should be able to realize their full potential in peace.

While I’ve been in Asia, I have stayed in very close touch with our team that is working on this issue and closely monitoring the situation in Juba. And the State Department is continuing to stay in close touch and monitor the situation on the ground. The safety and the security of our diplomats is paramount, and we are taking steps at this time in order to guarantee that security.

It’s impossible to have landed here in Tacloban on an airport that was once created

by United States Armed Forces at the time of

the liberation of the Philippines and not feel the dramatic impact of what is taking place here. It is really quite stunning. It looks like a war zone in every respect. And in many ways, for a lot of people, it is. You’d have to see this to really believe it and feel it and to understand it. You also have to see and feel the remarkable efforts of people coming together in order to try to respond to this. It is the best demonstration of humanity and of common love and sense of responsibility that people feel for each other.

The wreckage that has been left behind

by Typhoon Haiyan, or as it’s known here, Typhoon Yolanda, is absolutely staggering.

No words can do justice to the level of destruction that you see: the entire community leveled, water that goes up to the second story of an airport tower over there, all of this covered by water; the destruction of the trees all the way up the mountains; the leveling of homes and the taking of life. This is a devastation that is unlike anything I’ve seen at this kind of scale. It’s many tornadoes, that I have seen in America, wrapped into one.

On behalf of President Obama and American people, it’s my privilege to come here today to offer our condolences to the families of the more than 6,000 who perished in the storm, and to wish a very full and speedy recovery to the some-27,000 who were wounded. And we are keeping in our thoughts and prayers the nearly 1,800 people who still remain missing. The United States is committed to doing whatever we can as we go forward to try to help our friends in the Philippines to recover.

Last month’s typhoon broke the world’s heart, but what is certain is it didn’t break the spirit of the people here. The resilience, the courage, the determination to rebuild and to remake what was inspires all of us. And the truth is that what’s been happening here since the moment this storm passed away is inspiring to everybody.

For example, in the immediate wake of the typhoon, one of the most pressing tasks was to coordinate the opening of the city airport, just across the way here. And the logistical challenge of opening that airport

was simply overwhelming.

But Philippine Navy SEAL Captain Roy Trinidad and Major Leo Liebreich of the U.S. Army and Major George Apalisok of the U.S. Air Force got right to work. And those three heroes worked and slept side-by-side for 10 days straight to oversee the enormous challenge of off-loading and distributing relief supplies. They spent their nights beneath a makeshift shelter made of nothing more than a tarp, some buckets, and boards.

Their efforts saved hundreds of lives, and it inspired thousands of more people to do the same. And it demonstrated the enduring partnership between two allies – not only in good times, but in trying times as well.

USAID, the U.S. military, and the Departments of Defense and State, I can tell you unabashedly and with great pride, have done incredible work here together.

And all of that has been done in very close partnership with the Philippine Government.

Mr. Defense Minister and Mr. Ambassador to the United States, Mr. Congressman, Mr. Mayor, Mr. Under Secretary, we thank you for your efforts and the close partnership that you’ve demonstrated, and the leadership that you have shown in working to move us forward here.

Private corporations, NGOs, faithbased groups, the diaspora communities have shown a remarkable willingness of leadership and generosity to come together and deal with this catastrophe. And they all deserve an enormous amount of credit for working under the most difficult kinds of circumstances.

I’m proud to announce here in Tacloban today that the United States, through USAID, is providing an additional $24.6 million in humanitarian aid now. And this is on top – (applause). This is on top of the 62 million that we have already provided. And we are mindful that there is a donor conference taking place even as we are here today, and we will watch and work closely with the government to make further determinations as plans are laid out and as the future is defined by the Government of the Philippines.

The new aid is calculated to help ensure

A Christmas Message of Hope, Peace and Renewal from Secretary Albert F. del Rosario IN this season of hope, peace and sustain our economy’s momentum and renewal, there is a palpable sense of profound meaning and motivation on how we celebrate this occasion – reflected in our national consciousness and demonstrated by our collective aspirations as a people.

The year 2013 witnessed unprecedented devastation in the Visayas and brazen terrorist attacks in Mindanao. Yet, the Philippines, like the resilience of an Asian bamboo, is truly unbowed.

The unparalleled demonstration of compassion and overwhelming solidarity of our key allies, development partners, and people from all walks of life have inspired us to soldier on; gently reminding us that the Philippines is not alone.

While the task of reconstruction is both complex and daunting, we are confident and prepared to meet, head on, the challenges that lie before us.

Spurred by a clear commitment to inclusive growth, our President, His Excellency Benigno S. Aquino III, has vowed to realize a climate change-resilient Philippines to

further improve the quality of life of the Filipino people.

Through all these challenges and opportunities, the Department of Foreign Affairs ensures that the Philippines stands firmly as the voice of reason, championing an enlightened advocacy for peaceful relations through diplomatic consultations and strict adherence to the rule of law.

We intensify our economic diplomacy efforts to attract foreign direct investments, boost trade and tourism, and encourage development assistance. Despite Yolanda, the Philippines continues to receive resounding affirmation for its resilient economic performance and good governance reform agenda.

We maintain a proactive stance and strengthen our capacities to ensure that the rights and welfare of 10 million Filipinos overseas are promoted and protected at all times on a 24/7 basis, in 174 countries over 40 time zones.

Above all, we continue to push for a

principled and independent Philippine foreign policy, heightened by our ability to cooperate, negotiate and assert our rightful place in the community of nations.

I thank the outstanding men and women of the Department, based in the Home Office, the RCOs and satellite offices, and in all our 84 Posts abroad, for your hard work, steadfast commitment and positive contributions.

Let us all continue to serve as instruments of peace, channels of hope, and bridges of renewal and reconciliation.

A most Meaningful Christmas and a Grace-filled New Year! ■ December 23, 2013

that the residents and the relief workers have immediate access to clean water, to sanitation and to hygiene services, and also to make sure that they get the food and the temporary shelter that are essential to being able to continue this work.

USAID, I’m also pleased to say, has also just signed an MOU with Procter & Gamble and Coca-Cola, and they’ve created a publicprivate partnership that will help more than 2,000 small convenience stores to repair, restock, and rehabilitate their shops.

And the Citi Foundation just announced that it has raised $1 million for the recovery effort, and that it is contributing an addition half-million dollars to help the Philippines to rebuild.

These are just some of the examples of the good citizens of both of our countries who are working together and around the world in helping to step up to this challenge.

Let me single out a couple more people if I can, please. Illac Diaz, who I just was introduced to over here, standing beside his light fixture over there, is not only a brilliant innovator and an entrepreneur, but he is a generous human being. Illac took recycled materials and he made handheld, environmentally friendly, very simple solar lights – turning soda bottles into something that could be useful and a light for people to be able to have in their homes, into lanterns that served not only as the only source of light for Tacloban immediately after the typhoon, but as an important aid for people to be able to continue with their lives. I’m happy to note also – and I say this with some pride – that a few years ago, the U.S. Embassy in Manila gave Mr. Diaz a grant for this project, and we are very proud of the way he has put that funding to good use. In addition – and by the way, he distributes these lights free of charge, an example of the kind of effort that will make all the difference here. Thanks to his hard work and his kindness, a lot more lights will be on their way to reaching people here in this vicinity.

Let me also recognize Dave Bell. He’s an Embassy Warden and an American Legion Vice Commander. I just met him and chatted with him a little bit. He told me about his service out here, 1974 and ’75 was Vietnam, evacuation was taking place. And he has helped to locate veterans after the storm and checked in on survivors. Ken Holubeck, another Embassy Warden, who also served in 1966 and 1970 in Vietnam, is – has brought 56 people to live and find shelter in his damaged home. These are people who have helped to bring people together to clear debris in their neighborhood, and brought food to local workers and medical care to the injured. In addition, there’s another individual here who’s made an enormous difference.

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Dr. Ronald Arce, who – after losing his own home and two cousins in the storm – has served in the difficult task of being the lead mortician in recovering and identifying more than 2,000 victims. These folks are all of them local heroes, and there are many, many more who aren’t singled out here today. And they have meant – all of them together – the world to so many in such a dark time. They are an incredibly important part of the story of this storm.

And just as there are many examples of individuals stepping up, there is obviously an enormous challenge ahead. I could see that just driving by – the amount of wires and telephone poles and the level of destruction of homes along the way. Local fishermen have been among the hardest hit here. This was an enormous fishing community. Tens of thousands of small boats and fishing gear were destroyed or damaged in the typhoon, and the infrastructure that fishers, fisher people, rely on has been destroyed – the ports, the storage facilities, the markets – all flattened. So rebuilding the fishing industry here in a sustainable way, including by making sure that we’re not worsening the long-term challenge by overfishing, is a top priority and one that we need to all cooperate on.

We also know that while no single storm can be attributed to climate change, we do know to a certainty that rising temperatures will lead to longer and more unpredictable monsoon seasons and will lead to more extreme weather events. So looking around here, you see an unmistakable example of what an extreme weather event looks like, and a reminder of our responsibility to act to protect the future.

Looking around here you can also see how big a challenge remains. There’s no doubt in my mind, given the spirit that has already taken hold here, that we will get this job done. And in the past few weeks, the Philippines and the United States, joining together, have answered one of the worst challenges that Mother Nature provides, and in doing so they have shown the best of humanity.

So in the coming days and weeks and months – however long it takes – the United States will remain committed. We will work closely with our friends in the Philippines to rebuild this region even better and stronger and safer, and I’ve heard some people even talking about building a green community in its fullness. So that is what we will do, and we intend to be here by the side of our friends.

Thank you all for your efforts, thank you for letting me come here today to see how we can work together to do better. Thank you.

(Applause.) ■ USAID Tacloban / Tacloban, Philippines / December 18, 2013

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January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

USAID, P&G and Coca-Cola Announce Partnerships to Aid Grassroots Entrepreneurship in the Philippines Recovery Effort MANILA - The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) with Procter & Gamble (P&G) and Coca-Cola to support the revival of economic activity and livelihoods in Leyte, the province worst-hit by Super Typhoon Yolanda (international codename: Haiyan).

Under these MOUs, USAID, P&G and Coca-Cola will help establish new sari-sari stores (small community stores) and rehabilitate damaged or destroyed sari-sari stores located in public markets.

In addition, these organizations will facilitate sari-sari store owners’ access to micro-financing loans and other interventions that will help them succeed.

Announcing the partnerships as part of a broad relief, recovery and rehabilitation plan, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, said, “This partnership with P&G and Coca-Cola is a great example of how we can bring the shared resources of the U.S. Government and American businesses to help the people of Philippines revive economic activity and restore livelihoods. Sari-sari stores are the backbone of the Philippines consumer economy and by supporting their reconstruction and rehabilitation in Leyte, we believe we will accelerate recovery at the grassroots level.”

Under these partnerships, USAID, P&G and Coca-Cola will help build the necessary infrastructure for the operation of sari-sari stores, promote opportunities for community entrepreneurship, and improve commercial capabilities and crisis preparedness of sari-sari store owners.

USAID/Philippines Mission Director Gloria D. Steele said, “The Philippines is a close friend and a long-standing ally of the United States and we will continue to partner with, and provide support to the Philippine Government in their efforts to help Yolanda victims rebuild and recover from the tragedy.”

To date, the U.S. Government has provided approximately Php3.6 billion ($86.8 million) in emergency humanitarian funds for activities including provision of critical relief supplies, life-saving assistance and

protection of vulnerable populations.

“We will also work with Philippine Government partners in implementing disaster risk reduction programs to help increase the resilience of vulnerable communities to withstand and recover from natural calamities,” Director Steele added.

“P&G is committed to supporting the reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Philippines. In the immediate aftermath of Super Typhoon Yolanda, when basic necessities such as clean drinking water and hygiene products were scarce, we worked with our NGO partners to donate over Php86 million ($2 Million) in cash and relief goods. We recognize that now, in addition to the emergency response and disaster relief, there is need for a longer term effort to restore livelihoods and regenerate the economy of Leyte.

Through this partnership with USAID, P&G will leverage its portfolio of wellknown household brands, its extensive distribution network, its commercial expertise, and its long history of partnership with micro entrepreneurs who operate sari-sari stores to achieve this goal. P&G and its employees and retirees from all over the world are contributing to this effort,” said Sumeet Vohra, President and General Manager of P&G Philippines.

“From day one, we have mobilized our system to provide relief and aid to communities impacted by the super typhoon, from providing safe drinking water to the use of our trucks for distribution of relief goods and engaging our employees in the relief operations,” said Guillermo Aponte, President and General Manager of Coca-Cola Philippines.

To date, Coca-Cola has contributed Php107.5 million ($2.5 million) in relief and aid. Immediately after the super typhoon, commercial advertising for all Coca-Cola brands was put on hold and redirected to the relief and rehabilitation efforts for the people of Visayas.

Aponte added that, “we still have a long way to go and more resources are needed to rebuild the areas affected.

One organization cannot do it alone, and so we at Coca-Cola are happy to

work with government, civil society groups and other corporations to rebuild the communities impacted. For this partnership Coca-Cola will leverage on our STAR Program (Sari-Sari Store Training and Access to Resources) to help women sari-sari store owners rebuild their livelihood through a combination of social interventions, training, and access to resources. The STAR Program has impacted about 20,000 women sari-sari store owners and operators all over the Philippines.”

About USAID and the Mission in the Philippines. The American people, through the United States Agency for International Development, have provided economic and humanitarian assistance worldwide for over 50 years. In the Philippines, USAID works in partnership with the national government in creating a more stable, prosperous and wellgoverned country through programs that foster sustainable and inclusive growth, strengthen governance and combat corruption, improve access to water, energy, health and education services, increase environmental resilience and natural resource management capabilities. For more information, visit

http://www.usaid.gov/philippines or contact USAID/Philippines Development Outreach and Communications via email:infoph@usaid.gov.

About The Coca-Cola Company.

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands. Led by Coca-Cola, one of the world’s most valuable and recognizable brands, our Company’s portfolio features 16 billiondollar brands including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply, Georgia and Del Valle. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, ready-todrink coffees, and juices and juice drinks.

Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy our beverages at a rate of more than 1.8 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint, support active, healthy living, create a safe, inclusive work environment for our associates, and enhance the economic development of the communities where

we operate. Together with our bottling partners, we rank among the world’s top 10 private employers with more than 700,000 system associates. For more information, visit Coca-Cola Journey at www.coca-colacompany.com, follow us on Twitter at twitter.com/CocaColaCo, visit our blog, Coca-Cola Unbottled, at www.coca-colablog.com or find us on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ the-coca-cola-company.

About Procter & Gamble (P&G).

P&G serves approximately 4.8 billion people around the world with its brands.

The Company has one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Ace®, Always®, Ambi Pur®, Ariel®, Bounty®, Charmin®, Crest®, Dawn®, Downy®, Duracell®, Fairy®, Febreze®, Fusion®, Gain®, Gillette®, Head & Shoulders®, Iams®, Lenor®, Mach3®, Olay®, Oral-B®, Pampers®, Pantene®, Prestobarba®, SK-II®, Tide®, Vicks®, Wella®, and Whisper®. The P&G community includes operations in approximately 70 countries worldwide. Please visit http://www. pg.com for the latest news and in-depth information about P&G and its brands. ■ December 19, 2013

From left: U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines Philip Goldberg, Adel Tamano (Coke), U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, Sumeet Vohra (P&G), Batara Sianturi (Citi Philippines). Partially covered: Robert Sears AmCham Foundation)

PH seeks additional immigration relief for Pinoys in US WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Philippines has formally requested Washington for additional immigration relief measures to allow eligible Filipinos to stay and work in the United States so they could support the country’s long-term post-typhoon recovery efforts, the Department of Foreign Affairs announced Monday, 16 December.

Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert F. Del Rosario said the request to designate the Philippines under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) was officially conveyed on Friday, 13 December, by Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. to the Department of Homeland Security through a note verbale to the Department of State.

“Recognizing the intense desire of

the Filipino-American Community to more effectively assist victims, we would like to formally request that eligible Filipino nationals in the US be granted Temporary Protected Status under Section 244 of the US Immigration and Nationality Act,” said the letter signed

by Ambassador Cuisia and addressed to Acting Secretary of Homeland Security Rand Beers.

The request was made in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan, which killed more than 6,000 people; displaced more than 4 million and affected more than 12 million during its violent rampage across the Central Philippines last month.

More than 200 Filipino-American organizations across the US, backed by

members of the US Senate and House of Representatives, the Catholic Church and other NGOs have requested for the additional immigration relief measures that a TPS designation would be able to provide to Filipinos.

Secretary Del Rosario said if the request is granted, the Philippines will join four other countries that were placed under TPS after going through similar natural catastrophes. These are El Salvador and Haiti after these were devastated by earthquakes in 2001 and 2010 respectively and Nicaragua and Honduras after they were affected by Hurricane Mitch in 1998.

Ambassador Cuisia said the Embassy has also been in discussions with the

Department of Homeland Security and the Department of State and the DFA in Manila since the TPS was first brought to his attention a few days after Haiyan struck the country.

Ambassador Cuisia said the Philippine Embassy and the Philippine Consulates General in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu and Agana made the recommendation to Secretary Del Rosario during their annual conference in Washington, D.C. last week and after extensive consultations with leaders of the Filipino Community in their respective jurisdictions.

Ambassador Cuisia explained that a TPS designation for the Philippines would allow eligible Filipinos currently

in the US to support the long-term relief and rehabilitation efforts in the country because they could be given temporary authorization to stay and work for a limited period.

He said the request will have to first be evaluated by US authorities and may take some time. If approved, eligible Filipinos can start filing their applications, which will be reviewed on a case-to-case basis.

He said that in addition to TPS, Filipinos already in the US can also take advantage of the immigration breaks announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Service on 15 November of which some Filipinos have already availed themselves. ■ WDC-131-2013 /

December 16, 2013

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Power plant operators told to absorb loss arising from Meralco rate hike TRO MANILA – The government has asked power plant operators to absorb part of the loss brought about by the Supreme Court’s order temporarily barring Manila Electric Co (Meralco) from imposing an increase in its rates.

In a press conference last night, Energy Secretary Carlos Jericho L. Petilla said the government has asked Meralco’s power suppliers at the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM) to apportion among themselves whatever amount the High Tribunal would allow the distributor to collect from customers pending the court’s final ruling on the rate increase.

Meralco earlier announced a 3.44 per kilowatt-hour (kWh) hike in this month’s generation charge, the line

Energy chief Carlos Petilla. Photo by Bernard Testa

item in customer bills that pertains to the distributor’s cost of buying electricity direct from power plant operators or indirectly through the WESM, a trading platform where suppliers sell their uncontracted output.

Although the collection of the rate

hike was staggered up to March to ease the burden on Meralco customers, the Supreme Court issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) after a number of groups questioned the increase.

The TRO, in effect, capped Meralco’s P5.67 per kWh generation charge this month.

Meralco had warned that failure to collect bills would prevent it from paying its suppliers, which in turn would discourage power plant operators that sell their output through the WESM from supplying the country’s largest power distributor.

“To make sure (Meralco’s) services are not disrupted, those who will take a hit from the TRO should share the burden,” Petilla said, adding that Metro Manila’s

power supply would be compromised if the standoff is not resolved immediately.

“Kung ma-prolong ang collection problem nila (Meralco), it may disrupt services. However, we are making sure at our level we will avert this situation,” he said.

Petilla said Philippine Electricity Spot Market, which operates the WESM, has already proposed a pro-rata sharing scheme among suppliers based on the amount owed to them and what Meralco would be able to collect.

Meralco owes nearly two-thirds of the rate hike amounting to P6 billion to suppliers trading at the WESM while the balance of 4 billion is due to its power plant operators with whom the distributor has supply contracts.

Because of its inability to pay its suppliers at the WESM, Meralco has asked that it not be barred from trading in the spot market since it will be defaulting on its payments due to the TRO, Petilla said.

The rate increase was brought about by higher priced electricity that Meralco purchased from WESM and contracted suppliers after the distributor’s supply was cut short by scheduled maintenance work on the Malampaya field and unscheduled repairs on some of Luzon’s major plants in the past weeks.

InterAksyon.com is the online news portal of TV5, which like Meralco is chaired by Manuel V. Pangilinan. ■ Euan Paulo C. Añonuevo / InterAksyon.com / December 27, 2013 / 11:45 AM

Realigned 4-billion pork sans details is still pork, says former National Treasurer MANILA, Philippine – The realigned 4-billion Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) of 15 senators and Vice President Jejomar Binay can still be considered as pork and lump sum, given their discretionary nature and lack of details, former national treasure Leonor Magtolis Briones said on Sunday.

“Four billion of the originally proposed Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) is already deleted. This came from the pork barrel funds of 200 million for each of 15 senators and Vice President Jejomar Binay. Seven other senators and all members of Congress, except for three or four, realigned their pork barrel allocations,” said Briones.

Last Friday, President Benigno “PNoy” Aquino III signed the Congress-approved 2.264-trillion budget for next year, which is around P4 billion lower than the 2.268 trillion proposed by the Executive.

“Since the PDAF was realigned to agencies without details, the challenge now is for civil society organizations and citizens to remain vigilant and monitor the agencies.

The details of these transfers are not yet out.

We have to know how the money is spent and who spends it,” said Briones.

As lead convenor of Social Watch Philippines, a civil society organization with

a network of over a hundred other CSOs and individuals advocating transparency and people’s participation in public finance, Prof. Briones has been very vocal about the organization’s assessment and criticism of the budget and the budget system in general.

“The approved budget has a provision requiring all agencies and constitutional offices with fiscal autonomy to submit quarterly and annual financial statements and accomplishment reports to the Departments of Budget and Finance, the Senate, and the House of Representatives.

This has always been the case. It is in Section 86 of the General Provisions of the General Appropriations Bill,” continued Briones.

“However, people should also know that the same provision provides that the DBM has to report quarterly on lump-sum appropriations to the House Committee on Appropriations and Senate Committee on Finance as well. According to the Commission on Audit, DBM has not been complying,” she said.

Briones also commented on the lumpsums in the budget, namely the Special Purpose Funds ( 283 billion) and the Unprogrammed Funds ( 139 billion).

In light of the damage caused by

typhoon Yolanda, new items in the SPF and Unprogrammed Funds were created. These are the Rehabilitation and Reconstruction Program ( 20 billion) from Miscellaneous Personnel Benefits Fund and the Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Fund ( 80 billion) from the Unprogrammed Funds.

“These lump sums constitute to what has been coined as ‘Presidential’ or ‘Executive Pork.’ The sheer amount, discretion, and the lack of details make it vulnerable to abuse.

“We have to be reminded that the total budget is 2.264 trillion but only 1.468 trillion will be approved in the General Appropriations Act. This is because 796 Billion is automatically appropriated. This means that around 35% of the budget is not reviewed by Congress,” said Briones.

“Next year entails more monitoring and the fight for transparency is far from over,” she added. ■ Ernie Reyes / InterAksyon.com / December 22, 2013 / 12:06 PM

In turnabout, Pasay council withdraws recall of reclamation award to SM MANILA – The Pasay City government is honoring its partnership with the SM Group for a controversial project to reclaim and develop more land from Manila Bay. In a text message, Pasay City spokesperson Jonathan Malaya said the city council, during today’s en banc session, voted to withdraw its resolution recalling the approval of the P54.5-billion reclamation project.

Last month, the Pasay City

Photo by Bernard Testa

government awarded the reclamation project to SM Land Inc, the original proponent of the joint-venture with the local government unit (LGU).

In a complete turnaround, the Pasay City Council withdrew its approval early this month to address the issues raised by challengers Ayala Land Inc and S&P Construction Technology and Development Co. Both companies had complained about limited time given for them to craft counter offers to SM Land’s unsolicited proposal when the Pasay government used the 2008 joint venture guidelines of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA).

The challengers claimed that the 2008 NEDA guidelines have been superseded by a new set of rules approved a few months ago.

Over a seven-year period, SM will reclaim and develop 300 hectares of land from Manila Bay, and will shoulder all the expenses for the project.

The government, through the Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), will get at least 153 hectares or 51 percent of the area that would be reclaimed.

The Pasay City government, with SM Land as its partner, is seeking the approval of the PRA for the reclamation project. The PRA is reportedly inclined to bid out the reclamation project, citing a law where all such projects need to be bid out to LGUs and government-owned and controlled corporations (GOCCs).

Aside from the PRA, the project would have to secure the approval of the Office of the Government Corporate Counsel and the NEDA. Krista Angela M. Montealegre / InterAksyon.com / December 23, 2013 / 5:14 PM

Makati Mayor Junjun Binay: robust city treasury means more funds for programs and services.

Makati revenue collection hits 11.4 billion in November, breaching full-year projection THE total revenue collection of the city government of Makati amounted to 11,460,315,824, a figure that is 2 percent more than its full-year projection of 11,433,560,000 for 2013.

It is also 4 percent higher than the total revenue collection from January to November 2012, according to Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin S. Binay.

Binay said the latest report from the City Treasurer augurs well for the people of Makati this 2014, as it assures them of the city’s financial stability—necessary for the effective implementation of innovative programs and continuous delivery of basic services to them.

Aside from its continuing programs, the city government is set to implement in 2014 a number of capital-intensive projects, such as the Citywide CCTV Network Project, the rehabilitation and upgrade of Makati C3 (Command Center), Expanded Pedestrianization Project, Early Warning Systems and Disaster Risk Assessment, and the construction of new school buildings, among others.

Based on a report to the Mayor from City Treasurer Nelia Barlis, the bulk of the collection came from local sources led

by Business Tax with 6,111,541,910, or seven percent higher than the collection as of end-November 2012. The significant increase was attributed to sustained investor confidence, as indicated by an

increase in total business registrants from 32,020 in 2012 to 33,116 to date.

According to the Business Permits Office, the number of new businesses rose from 4,295 to 4,721, while renewals increased from 27,725 last year to 28,395 to date.

The city’s next biggest local revenue source is Real Property Tax with a total of 3,783,095,598, which is two percent higher than what was collected in the same period last year.

For the same comparative period, the city’s collection from miscellaneous fees and charges increased by seven percent, from 578.29 million to 616.18 million, while its earnings from economic enterprises amounted to 199.37 million, up one percent from 197.30 million as of November 2012.

On the other hand, Makati’s share from Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) as of November dropped two percent to 649.19 million, which accounts for 5.66 percent of the city’s total revenue collection for the said period, down from 6.03 percent as of November 2012.

Since its new Revenue Code took effect in 2006, the city government has been implementing a moratorium on tax increases, yet its total revenue collection has continued to increase year after year.

The city has also remained deficit-free for the past 27 years. ■ InterAksyon.com / December 28, 2013 10:05 AM

38

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January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Marcos seeks Senate probe on Skyway tragedy, Jinggoy pushes wage bill for PU drivers MANILA, Philippines - Two senators on Sunday weighed in on last week’s Skyway accident where a bus fell onto the South Luzon service road. One urged the Senate to conduct a probe into the bus crash that killed at least 18 persons and other deadly vehicular crashes in the past, and another pushed legislation for a fixed-salary scheme for public-utility drivers to once and for all end the recklessness that is often blamed on the “boundary” system.

Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. aired the call for an investigation after a speeding Don Mariano Transit bus fell off the southbound land of Skyway and crashed on a van below along the South Luzon Expressway in Taguig City around 5:00 a.m.

December 16. “What is unfortunate is that this kind of senseless death could have been avoided by proper implementation of, or compliance with, basic traffic and transport safety rules,” Marcos said.

In Senate Resolution 334, Marcos sought

an inquiry into the enforcement of a 53-yearold rule and legislative policy embodied in the Civil Code (Republic Act 386), which requires common carriers to always observe extraordinary diligence in the carriage and transport of passengers and goods.

“The Senate probe will require the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), the Philippine National Police (PNP), and the Metro Manila Development Authority to report on the implementation of traffic and transportation regulations, especially with regards to common carriers,” Marcos said.

Jinggoy pushes fixed-wage scheme for PU drivers. Relatedly, Sen. Jinggoy Ejercito Estrada, labor committee chairman, pushed for the institutionalization of fixed monthly salaries and better working conditions for public utility bus drivers, saying such will promote road safety, improve traffic flow and prevent deadly highway accidents.

Estrada’s proposal is contained in Senate Bill 1372 or the “Bus Drivers and Conductors Compensation Program.”

It was offered even as an interagency panel led by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) last week received instructions to pursue the reforms in the public transportation employees’ wage and benefits program, after yet another bus fell from the skyway. Initial inquiry showed the bus driver of Don Mariano Transportation Corp. had been driving for 19 hours, and was running at least 40 kph more than speed limit, on a rainy morning.

Jinggoy, chairman of the Senate Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources Development, said that under the current boundary and commission-based compensation, bus drivers outdo and compete with each other and with limited working hours in drawing commuting passengers to ensure a decent daily take home pay for the family.

PISTON rejects privatization of Motor Vehicle Inspection System MANILA, Philippines – A drivers’ group fees borne by motorists since the job of Employment (DOLE) should, meanwhile, rejects a proposal to privatize the operation of the Motor Vehicle Inspection System (MVIS) of the Land Transportation Office, an idea floated by the Department of Transportation and Communication amid a series of road accidents, notably the Skyway bus incident last Dec. 16.

DOTC Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya had been reported saying the agency was mulling over the privatization of the MVIS, which the LTO is hard-pressed to operate as one road crash after another is being reported. Just last Friday, seven people died in separate accidents on the same Batangas road.

However, PISTON National President George San Mateo said in a statement Saturday that privatizing the Motor Vehicle Inspection System will further jack up the

MVIS will be treated primarily as a business and no longer a service by government.

San Mateo disputed the claim of Abaya that the government can no longer maintain the LTO MVIS. He also noted that besides the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), Bureau of Customs (BoC) and Pagcor, LTO is in fact the 4th largest government agency revenue earner of the government, even though the LTO is not yet totally revenue-earning in orientation, he said.

In San Mateo’s view, privatizing MVIS is not the solution to cutting graft and ensuring efficiency in Motor vehicle Inspection. He thinks the proposal may just be an excuse to accommodate cronies of the administration who may be interested to bid for the project.

The Department of Labor and

review the difficult working conditions of bus drivers, which have been pointed to as a main culprit in the rash of accidents.

Privatizing the MVIS will breed further corruption and not really solve the problem, San Mateo said.

“The Commission on Audit (COA) and the Ombudsman or the Civil Service Commission will also not be able to run after erring personnel running a privatized MVIS. We will see further loss in public accountability and transparency,“ said San Mateo, speaking in Filipino.

To prove his point that privatization does not automatically mean more efficiency and less corruption, he cited the problems that engulfed failed private enterprises such as CAP Pension Plan, Orient and Urban Bank. ■ InterAksyon.com / December 28, 2013 / 2:30 PM

This compensation setup breeds a number of inconvenient and unsafe travel conditions for road users like clogged road lanes due to indiscriminate loading of passengers, buses beating speed limits, drivers stretching the work hours for ‘bonus’ pay, among others.

Under Senate Bill 1372, salaries of bus drivers should not be less than the prevailing minimum wage rate and must include benefits and incentives.

“A simple computation will show that drivers currently earning 900 a day and working more than 12 hours a day for three days a week will receive almost the same income based on the minimum wage for working eight hours a day for six days a week.

The difference is that under the proposed act, drivers will get enough rest while operators will spend almost the same amount for salaries,” said Estrada’s bill’s explanatory note.

The bill also requires the operators of public utility bus service to observe an eighthour daily work scheme (including at least 1 hour rest period) and two-shift system.

Violators of the law shall be meted out a fine of 100,000 to 200,000 pesos, and suspension of the franchise to operate.

Social security, too. In a separate proposal also authored by Estrada, Senate Bill 1378 or the proposed “Comprehensive Assistance Program for Public Utility Vehicle Drivers Act” provides that all public utility bus drivers be covered by the Social Security System (SSS), Philippine Health Insurance System (Philhealth), Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG), and Employees Compensation Commission (ECC).

Senate Bill 1378 also seeks to implement a livelihood and credit assistance under Land Transportation Office and in coordination with the Cooperative Development Authority “to improve their socio-economic condition.”

The bill asks the Technical Education

Mexican drug cartel operating in Philippines - PNP MANILA – Philippine police on Thursday said they have detected evidence that the Mexican drug cartel is operating in the Philippines, with initial information indicating the cartel has started with financing operations of some Chinese and West African drug syndicates in the country.

Philippine National Police (PNP) Director General Alan Purisima confirmed the bad news in a briefing Thursday at Camp Crame, saying police now hold evidence that some personalities of the Sinaloa drug cartel are operating in the country. According to Purisima, the archipelago’s porous borders make tracking the multinational syndicates’ operations harder.

“Ngayon nakikita natin na nagsisimula pa lang sila. Kailangan aksyunan natin agad para hindi na tuluyang makapasok [Now, we see they’re just starting out. We need to move fast so they won’t get a firmer foothold],” Purisima said.

The PNP said it had not determined yet the exact number of cartel members who infiltrated the country. Part of the investigation is how the cartel was able to penetrate the country. “So, we are still in the process of determining what is the history behind the arrest of these people,” Purisima said, referring to the Christmas

Day raid on an illegal drugs operation in Batangas that confirmed the hand of Sinaloa cartel members.

At half past eight of Christmas morning, raiders seized 84 kilos of shabu worth P420 million from a compound owned by former Batangas Governor Antonio Leviste in Barangay Inosloban, Batangas City.

A Chinese national, Gary Tan, and Filipino couple Argay and Rochelle Argenos were arrested at the compound located within the LPL (Lauro Panganiban Leviste) Ranch.

Purisima said a manhunt is on for a certain Jorge Torres, who had rented the Leviste compound.

The former governor Leviste was recently released on parole from the National Bilibid Prisons (NBP) after serving four years of his sentence for homicide in the killing of a top aide.

Purisima said PNP lawyers are checking the possible liability of the owner of the compound, Leviste, in the illegal drugs operation. President Aquino himself had directed Justice Secretary Leila de Lima to determine the circumstances behind the decision of the Board of Pardons and Parole to grant parole to Leviste, despite a highly publicized incident that showed him

leaving his cell even without permission from prison officials or the court.

“We are studying the possibility of confiscating [the compound] in favor of the government because [it was] used for [illegal] drugs business…but we all know they were just leasing the property and we will be consulting our lawyers,” Purisima, however, said.

Sinaloa leader most wanted US drug trafficker. The Mexican embassy declined to comment on the Philippine police’s revelations The Sinaloa cartel is reputed to be the largest source of illegal drugs to the United States.

Its main leader, Joaquin “El Chapo” Guzman, escaped from a Mexican prison in 2001. He is now America’s most wanted drug trafficker, as well as being considered

by Forbes as the most powerful criminal on the planet.

More than 77,000 people have been killed in Mexico in connection with organised crime since then-president Felipe Calderon launched a nationwide war against the cartels after taking office in 2006.

It’s complicated - Purisima. Purisima admitted Sinaloa drug cartel’s Philippine

Sinaloa drug cartel leaders Joaquin Guzman (left) and Valenzuela are seen in this August 2012 Reuters file photo. Guzman or “El Chapo” escaped from Mexican prison in 2001 and is tagged by Forbes as the most powerful criminal on the planet. Philippine police have confirmed that Sinaloa elements are now players in the multibillion illegal drugs industry in the country, with initial evidence of their presence found in a Christmas Day raid in a Batangas City compound.

presence complicates the burdens of the PNP in checking the multibillion illegal drugs operations in the country. He explained why: “It will be more hard work.

Actually, that’s part of what we’re studying.

We are 7,000 islands. If you go down south you can freely go to Sabah. Sometimes you don’t even have to go through immigration.

You just hop over to the next island and ride a banca. In our piers before, there were reports that containers were not opened, not checked, so we have suspicions but we do not have evidence. So there are so many ways of transporting drugs into our

and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) in coordination with the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC) to undertake a Continuous Education and Skills Development Training Program for public utility vehicle drivers “to enhance their basic and advanced driving competencies, and knowledge on maintenance procedures, driving preparation and post-driving procedure, road safety rules and accident response procedure.”

Marcos-led probe for ‘future legislation’.

The probe pushed by Senator Marcos, meanwhile, will “aid the Senate for purposes of future legislation and amendments to existing traffic and transportation laws.”

Marcos said the inquiry is timely not only because of the Skyway tragedy, but also because of a spate of similar vehicular crashes like the one on Maharlika Highway in Atimonan, Quezon, the Cebu marine disaster, and other similar incidents in airports and runways.

“There is an imperative need for Congress to check on the status of implementation and enforcement of said legislative rule and policy to assess and evaluate the effectiveness of the Philippine government in confronting and addressing the matter of safety and security in our public transport system, roadways, pedestrian lanes, and other related infrastructures,” Marcos said in the resolution. ■ Ernie Reyes / InterAksyon.com / December 22, 2013 / 5:10 PM

country and . . . sometimes we have seen laboratories also being set up in different parts of the country,” Purisima said.

The initial investigation confirmed that the Mexicans (Sinaloa) “have a hand in the operations of the Chinese. The names used are Chinese. They have apparent collusion and of course, that’s how they usually start, as a partnership, i.e., I finance the operations, you do the work, and later, we will go our separate ways,” Purisima elaborated.

The head of the PNP’s Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Force (AIDSOTF) said some teams have been deployed to hunt personalities involved in the operation of the Sinaloa drug cartel. “Previously, we have reports that the Mexicans are here…

This is the first time that we have confirmed that Mexicans are already here,” Senior Supt. Bartolome Tobias said.

“They are Mexicans and Chinese. There are other nationalities who are here pero hindi sila ganun ka-organized but so many nationalities are here. Sometimes they are involved for a short time. Sometimes they are part of a bigger organization but they are also in league with the West African Drug Syndicate. So halo-halo [it’s a mixed bag]. The investigation is ongoing,” Purisima said. ■ Jaime Sinapit / InterAksyon.com / Agence France-Presse / December 26, 2013 6:00 PM

January 2014 – No. 1 • UK & Europe Edition

Benefit match for ‘Yolanda’ relief between Azkals, ASEAN all-stars planned THE Philippine national men’s football team could strut its wares against the best players in Southeast Asia next year in a benefit match for the survivors of super typhoon “Yolanda.”

The ASEAN Football Federation announced on Saturday that it is organizing an exhibition match that would pit the Azkals against an all-star selection from Southeast Asia at Panaad Stadium in Bacolod City, with the date yet to be determined.

Proceeds of the match will go to the relief efforts for victims of the typhoon.

Members of the selection will come from the players who were included in the Southeast Asia’s all-star team, which was determined during the inaugural AFF Awards last April.

Among notable players on the list are 2012 Suzuki Cup Most Valuable Player Shahril Ishak of Singapore and Golden Boot winner Teerasil Dangda of Thailand.

Should it push through, the match will be a welcome addition to the Azkals’ buildup to the Asian Football Confederation Challenge Cup next year.

Their training will start in the second week of January before they possibly see action in a four-nation tournament featuring Afghanistan, Palestine and host Pakistan in February.

The champion of the Challenge Cup will be gain a ticket to the prestigious 2015 Asian Cup, where the continent’s top teams will see action. ■ Karl Decena / InterAksyon.com / December 22, 2013 / 8:25 PM

Ginebra defeats Meralco as Aguilar drains game-winning three HE did it again.

Japeth Aguilar hit another gamewinning three-pointer for the second time this conference, pushing Barangay Ginebra San Miguel past the Meralco Bolts, 83-82, in the PLDT MyDSL 2014 PBA Philippine Cup, Saturday, at the Mall of Asia Arena.

Facing a 82-77 deficit with 15 seconds left, Jay-R Reyes nailed an improbable corner triple for the Barangay off the inbounds pass, then Ginebra fouled John Wilson to the line.

Wilson missed both, returning ball possession to Ginebra. LA Tenorio walked the ball up the court, and failing to get his shot off, passed the ball to Japeth Aguilar at the top of the circle.

Aguilar faked and stepped back to his left to shake off Reynel Hugnatan’s challenge, then swished the ball through the net with 0.1 on the clock as the crowd erupted into a frenzy.

Aguilar finished with 15 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks. Greg Slaughter led all scorers with 17 points, 11 rebounds and three blocks. Mac Baracael logged 14 points, making three of his four three-pointers, while LA Tenorio chipped in13 points, nine rebounds and seven assists.

“Kung mami-miss, talagang ganon,” smiled Ginebra head coach Ato Aguistin about Aguilar’s second game-winning triple of the season. “Pero yung crucial doon yung kay Jay-R talaga.”

“Let’s credit our big guys who hit two crucial three-point shots. But let’s also credit Meralco who played great, especially on defense,” stressed Agustin. “Na-control nila yung mga [players] namin.”

Ginebra won their fifth straight game to keep the top spot in the standings, 9-1, while Meralco suffered their fourth straight loss, 3-7, to tie Barako Bull at ninth.

The first quarter was off to an electrifying start as Gary David scored nine of Meralco’s first

Reynel Hugnatan was a fearless force for Meralco, but his 13 points were not enough to carry the Bolts to victory.

Ginebra’s Greg Slaughter celebrates after Japeth Aguilar hit the game-winning triple against the Meralco Bolts, 83-82, on December 28 at the Mall of Asia Arena. Photos by KC Cruz

11 points to counter Ginebra’s athletic finishes at the rim, 11-10. The Bolts survived a threepoint barrage from Mac Baracael and Josh Urbiztondo as James Sena finished inside, 2020, before LA Tenorio took over in the last two minutes of the frame. Tenorio outplayed his defenders for six of the Barangay’s last seven, until a John Wilson drive with 20 seconds left made it a 27-22 game.

Despite conceding a Chris Ellis tomahawk jam in traffic, Meralco showed better interior defense in the second quarter. The same couldn’t be said for Ginebra, though, as they conceded 11 of Meralco’s next 14 points in the paint, 36-33. But in the the last five minutes Ginebra turned a corner, as twin baskets inside from Greg Slaughter helped even the tally at halftime, 40-40.

The lead swung to Ginebra in the third quarter as a Japeth Aguilar dunk bolstered a 48-42 Ginebra edge. The Bolts took another hit when James Sena picked up his fifth personal foul, plus a technical for showing resentment.

Tenorio missed the technical free throw while Slaughter split, but on the next possession, Tenorio nailed a trey, 52-46.

Meralco kept looking for their shots inside, as good playmaking allowed four different Bolts to score in the paint, before Jared Dillinger cut to the rim as the period expired, giving his team a 60-59 edge.

Treys from Ellis and Baracael allowed Ginebra to hang around while Meralco pushed the ball off stops. Neither team led by more than three points, before Meralco broke through when a Hugnatan reverse drew an and-one at 2:48, followed by a Jared Dillinger jumper from the right corner, 78-73.

Caguioa missed a chance to make it a single possession game from beyond the arc.

Meralco looked to Mike Cortez for a threepointer, and he was fouled by Slaughter. Cortez couldn’t quite shake the fall and converted just

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Floyd Mayweather jabs at Amir Khan, Marcos Maidana, Manny Pacquiao on Twitter UNDEFEATED American boxer Floyd Mayweather continued his onslaught on Twitter, taking on Amir Khan and Marcos Maidana, in rival Manny Pacquiao, through taunts on the microblogging/social networking site.

After taking posting a “Christmas card” meme about Manny Pacquiao earlier in the week, Mayweather followed up with a picture of “Manny Roach,” a person who resembles both Pacquiao and his trainer Freddie Roach.

The undefeated American fighter then posted pictures of himself beating up the three fighters who are rumored to be his next possible opponents.

He first tweeted a one of Khan down on the floor, with the caption, “Just imagine what Amir ‘Con Artist’ will get if his name gets picked in the Mayweather sweepstakes.”

The Mayweather-Khan fight has been long rumored as both fighters alluded to the possibility of such a match-up in their interviews.

“Floyd is the best fighter out there and you would love to see how you fight against the best. I’m not going to shy away from that fight.

Styles make fights and I know for a fact that I will do better than most of the guys that he has fought,” said Khan in an interview with Sports Illustrated’s Chris Mannix. “I’ll beat him. My speed and movement will give Floyd problems. I’m not taking any time off. I know that’s a fight that will change my life.”

Mayweather’s last fight was a 12-round domination of up-and-comer Saul Alvarez, although the fight was inexplicably scored as a draw by one of the judges. In that fight, Mayweather again showed that he is too fast and just too good against younger opposition.

Khan on the other hand has won his last two fights against Carlos Molina and Julio Diaz, after getting knocked out by Danny

Garcia back in July of 2012. He fights under the Golden BoyPromotions banner, so the negotiations for such a bout would be much easier.

Mayweather had a lot of good things to say about Khan during an interview with Ben Thompson of Fight Hype, but he took a shot at the British boxer by calling him a con artist.

“Amir Khan, he has speed. After his loss to the kid from Philadelphia, to [Danny] Garcia, he’s had a couple of impressive victories,” said the Mayweather. “The thing that I like about Amir Khan is he is very interesting. He has a pretty cool fan base, so that fight would make a lot of sense.”

“When you have that UK fan base, it’s remarkable. If the fight between Amir Khan and me is to happen, I want all my fans from the UK to come over,” Mayweather continued.

“We don’t know where the fight may happen at, but of course it could happen in the UK if the fight does happen. It could happen in Vegas, we just don’t know. It could happen in New York City, we really don’t know,” Mayweather continued. “Only thing we can do is just wait to see what’s going to

happen and wait to see who my opponent is going to be.”

Mayweather then turned his attention to Maidana. The American posted a picture of himself landing a right straight square on Maidana’s face.

The rugged fighter from Argentina was included in the list of possible Mayweather opponents after his one-sided beat down of Adrian Broner, a Mayweather protégé.

Mayweather saved the biggest shot for last as he posted a picture with him hitting Pacquiao with a jab. “Juan Marquez ate Timothy Bradley’s leftovers…” tweeted Mayweather. “Now you’re telling me I got to eat Juan Marquez’s leftovers? Let me talk to the IRS about this,” in reference to Pacquiao’s struggles in his past few fights and his issues with the IRS. An opponent for Mayweather is rumored to be announced in January. He will most likely fight in Las Vegas on May 3. ■ OMG/AMD, GMA News / December 26, 2013 / 3:46 PM

PNoy, Pacquiao talk more than just boxing during courtesy call

Sarangani congressman and boxing champ Manny Pacquiao (L) pays a courtesy call to President Benigno Aquino III. Photo by Lauro Montellano Jr.

said after his meeting with Aquino.

A Palace insider refused to say if the two talked about Pacquiao’s problem with the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

The insider just said that the two had a good conversation as Pacquiao was also asking the President about national issues such as the territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea. The President also promised to give Pacquiao a copy of the film “Fighting with Ali.” Asked why his courtesy call with the President was delayed, Pacquiao said they were both busy.

“Naging busy po at saka pareho po kami naging busy ni Presidente. Busy siya sa pagasikaso ng mga problema. Ako po busy dahil sa paghahanda sa pagpunta sa Tacloban, then paghahanda [sa] birthday ko rin,” said Pacquiao.

Pacquiao won a unanimous decision against Brandon Rios in Macau on November 24 for the WBO International Welterweight title. The courtesy call was scheduled three weeks after.

In a briefing before the courtesy call, Aquino said scheduling problems delayed the meeting.

“Nandoon rin tayo sa panahon na kasagsagan ng Yolanda; siya rin mismo nagpunta doon at tumulong. So palagay ko naman e, busy siya at palagay ko naman, kita niyo mas busy ako. Wala namang other point other than iyong scheduling conflict,” he said.

Asked what they would talk about, Aquino said he was just willing to listen to what Pacquiao would say.

“Well, ako’y handang makinig sa kung anong gusto niyang pag-usapan,” he said. ■

one of three, 79-73.

Ginebra called a timeout at the 1:30 mark, and Meralco took the chance to sub Cortez out when play resumed. This time, the Barangay converted, as Aguilar slammed home a missed Tenorio drive. Aguilar drew a foul but didn’t convert, allowing Dillinger to push the lead back up to six with a drive on the other end.

Aguilar scored again, this time on the block, and Ginebra secured a stop with under a minute to spare, 81-77. Aguilar tried to nail one from deep but missed. Caguioa secured the board but threw the ball away, and Ginebra were forced to foul John Wilson. Wilson split,

82-77, with 15 seconds remaining before Aguilar’s heroics felled them in the end.

Ginebra shot 33-of-77 (42.9 percent), including 9-of-19 (47.4 percent) from the arc.

Meralco went 35-of-77 (45.5 percent), and 3-of-11 (27.3 percent) from deep.

The Bolts were weighed down by poor performance from the line, making 9-of-18 (50 percent). Ginebra didn’t do any better, though, at 8-of-18 (44.4 percent).

Meralco led 9-2 in turnover points, offsetting Ginebra’s 10-3 advantage in second-chance points.

Jared Dillinger paced the Bolts with 16 points. Reynel Hugnatan added 13 poins and

seven rebounds, while John Wilson offered 12 points. ■ Job B. De Leon / GRAF, MA News / December

FOR more than an hour, President Benigno Aquino III and boxing champion Sarangani Rep. Manny Pacquiao talked, not just about boxing, but sumo wrestling and shooting as well, during his courtesy call, Wednesday afternoon.

“Nag-usap kami about ‘yung boxing kay Muhammad Ali tapos ‘yung sumo wrestling ba ‘yun sa Japan. At saka nag-usap kami about ‘yung shooting competition,” Pacquiao

Amita O. Legaspi / AMD, GMA News / December 18, 2013 / 6:52 PM

28, 2013 / 5:35 PM

The scores: GINEBRA 83 - Slaughter 17, Aguilar 15, Baracael 14, Tenorio 13, Ellis 7, Caguioa 6, Urbiztondo 5, Reyes 3, Monfort 2, Helterbrand 1, Mamaril 0.

MERALCO 82 - Dillinger 16, Hugnatan 13, Wilson 12, David 9, Cortez 8, Caram 6, Sena 6, Allado 6, Guevarra 3, Hodge 3, Al-Hussaini 0.

Quarters: 27-22, 40-40, 59-60, 83-82

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Floyd Mayweather Ginebra defeats PNoy, Pacquiao jabs at Amir Khan, Meralco as talk more Marcos Maidana, Aguilar drains than just Manny Pacquiao game-winning boxing during on Twitter courtesy call three Story on page 39

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BENEFIT MATCH FOR ‘YOLANDA’ RELIEF BETWEEN AZKALS, ASEAN ALL-STARS PLANNED Story on page 39