November 2011 issue

HELLO PHILIPPINES Connecting Global News & Views For The Community

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November / December 2011 Monthly Issue

FRE INSIDE E

Business & Finance • Celebrity, Showbiz & Entertainment • Economy • Global News • Health & Nutrition • Immigration • OFW News • Politics • Social Issues • Sports

Volume 2 - Number 11

www.hello-philippines.com

OFW BAN IN WORKING IN 41 COUNTRIES Vittorio Hernandez

A

bout 10 percent of the Philippine population lives or works overseas.

Although the bulk of them are in some popular OFW destination

countries such as the United States of America (USA), United Kingdom (UK), Hong Kong, Saudi Arabia and Canada. It is estimated, the rest are spread in over 150 countries around the world, and ocean-going vessels.

Full Story in Page 4

MISS WORLD 2011...

MISS PHILIPPINES

1ST RUNNER-UP Lorela U. Sandoval

M

iss World Philippines 2011 Gwendoline Ruais proved to the world that Filipina women are indeed tough contenders in beauty and brains competition, when she bagged the 1st Runner-Up finish during the 61stMiss World 2011 finals on Sunday, November 6 at Earls Court Two in London, the city where the

first Miss World was staged in 1951. Her recent win as the first runner-up or second place is said to be the Philippines’ highest finish so far in the Miss World pageant after Evangeline Pascual’s similar finish in 1973. Some 113 beauty queens from Albania to Zimbabwe took their place on the stage, with the show being broadcast live to an estimated audience of more than one billion viewers in 150 countries. Full Story in Page 2

John Lloyd Cruz and Shaina Magdayao Break-up?-

Page 40

Pacquiao vs Marquez November 12 - Page 44

National Strike November 30 - Page 15

Philippines Department of Tourism at Excel Exhibition - Page 26

Paco Park: Wedding at a Cemetery? - Page 22

7 Billionth Baby Born in the Philippines - Page 30

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

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Cover Story

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Miss World 2011 1st Runner-Up Gwendoline Ruais: Philippines’ Pride in Beauty and Brains Lorela U. Sandoval

I

n the recent London finals, she was among the finalist for the top 30 Presentations for Beauty with a Purpose, for the top 20 Model Semi-Finalists and for the top 20 Beach Beauty category.

In the previously held Miss World Philippines competition, she also received special awards such as Miss Healthy Body, Best in Swimsuit, and Best in Fashion Design.

A French-Filipina beauty from Muntinlupa City; an international fashion and runway model standing at 5’11’ at roughly 132lbs, with a perfect vital statistics to die for: 3626-36. She graduated with a degree in Business Management (Honours Program) from Southville Foreign University, major in Marketing.

In a Philstar.com interview with Ricky Lo, she identified her edge over the rest of the beauties, quoted saying: “All modesty aside, definitely my height. But the other important factor came from within; I believe it was also my passion, desire and drive to win that crown.”

She admitted in a gmanews.tv report, too, that she was nervous during the competition, but she preferred to ‘focus on herself and her country.’

She said she looks up to her mom as her role model who worked hard for them and made them proud, abs-cbnnews.com reported.

Meanwhile, in the official website of Miss World, her profile expressed her passion on defending the advocacies or causes she believes in.

But heads up, guys! Winning the heart of this 21-year-old beauty queen is not easy. In an interview with entertainment columnist Ricky Lo, she revealed what turns her off in a guy—arrogance and dishonesty. And the first thing she notices in a guy? “All of him,” she was quoted saying in the said interview.

When asked if she has plans on entering the entertainment industry, she admitted she wanted to focus first on her duties as Miss World Philippines. She said she just hopes she made the Philippines proud.

Taken from her profile, she has this to share as her personal motto: “Never give up on your dreams. (Even when faced with what seems like an insurmountable wall; because the things that are most worth having are always the hardest to achieve).”

Miss Philippines Gwendoline Ruais

61st Miss World 2011 is Miss Venezuela Such is the obvious case of Miss Venezuela Ivian Lunasol Sarcos Colmenares, who was named and crowned as Miss World 2011 on Sunday, November 6 at Earls Court Two in London, besting some 113 contestants from different countries.

Miss Philippines Gwendoline Ruais and Miss Puerto Rico Amanda Victoria Vilanova Perez, meanwhile, took home first and second runners-up prizes, respectively. Miss England Alize Moutler made it to the top seven

finalists, along with Miss Scotland Jennifer Reogh.

The 21-year-old Venezuelan beauty was a top contender in the categories of talent, top model, sports, beach beauty, and beauty with a purpose which particularly shows the contestant’s involvement in any charity project. She definitely has proven so, after bagging the crown. According to the official website of Miss World, with a degree in human resources, she works for a broadcasting company, besides being a beauty queen. Interestingly, she used to study in a nunnery for five years, too, dreaming of someday

Miss Venezuela Ivian Lunasol Sarcos Colmenares

becoming a nun. The said website also revealed that she already has put up her own foundation to help children.

Other Miss World contestants with Filipino genes, Miss World Canada Riza Santos and Miss World Denmark Maya Celeste Padillo Olesen, unfortunately, didn’t make it to the cut in the Beach Beauty category.

In keeping with the tradition, The Miss World flag was passed on to the next host country. The next Miss World 2012 competition will be held in the City of Ordos in Mongolia, China. ■

ERRATUM: In the article “Miss World Turns 60, returns home to London to Celebrate its 60th Anniversary” on page 2 of the October 2011 Issue, we mistakenly reported from sources that Miss World Guam 2011 Siera Robertson is part Filipino, along with three other contestants for Miss World 2011. Miss Robertson, however, is Chamorro and Caucasian (not a Filipino father or mother).

We sincerely apologize for the inconvenience, mis-information and misleading references to Miss Siera Robertson and her family.

HELLO

4

PHILIPPINES

Cover Story

www.hello-philippines.com

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Philippines bans deployment of workers to 41 countries Vittorio Hernandez

T

he list, however, is expected to shrink because of an order from the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) deployment ban on 41 countries. The prohibition was because of failure by the 41 countries to sign international conventions that would protect foreign workers.

By not inking the conventions, these countries lack sufficient safeguards to protect foreign workers from abuse by their employers. These nations also have not signed bilateral agreements with the Philippines to protect foreign workers, the POEA said.

However, Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz – who used to head POEA – said the ban on deployment would have little effect on worker deployment because most of the Filipinos on the list of 41 countries are employed by multinational companies and not covered by the prohibition.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said only 15 of the 41 nations will actually be affected by the ban since the OFWs in these countries work in companies that have only domestic operations. The DOLE added these

Potential OFWs who seek work opportunities overseas through job fairs now have lesser countries to choose from following the ban on deployment made by the POEA on 41 countries.

workers will be allowed to finish first the terms of their contracts.

The 41 countries on the ban list are: Afghanistan, Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Cambodia, Cayman Islands, Chad, Croatia, Cuba, Dominica, East Timor, Eritrea, Haiti, India, Iraq, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Lesotho, Libya, Mali, Mauritania, Montenegro, Mozambique, Nauru, Nepal, Niger, North Korea, Pakistan, Palestine, Serbia, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Sudan, Swaziland, Tajikistan, Tonga, Turks and Caicos, Tuvalu, U.S. Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, and Zimbabwe.

Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario stressed, “The list does not seek to pass any value judgment on any country. It serves as a crucial benchmark for all government agencies concerned for the betterment of the safety, welfare and working conditions of our nationals.”

Reports said there are 49 countries on the approved list but the POEA removed Governing Board Resolution 6, which is the list.

What is left on the POEA website is the list of 76 countries under Resolution No. 2 made up of the following approved

countries: Angola, Kenya, Namibia and South Africa in Africa; and Argentina, Belize, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Columbia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Guam, Guatemala, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Northern Marianas, Paraguay, Peru, Suriname, Uruguay, United States of America and Venezuela in the Americas.

In Europe, those on the list are: Albania, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belgium, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Cyprus, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Ireland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Poland, Romania, Russian Federation, San Marino, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Turkey and United Kingdom.

For Asia and Pacific, the nations on the list are: Australia, Brunei, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Laos, Macau, Maldives, Malaysia, Marshall Islands, Myanmar, New Zealand, Palau, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Vietnam. There are only to Middle East countries on the list – Israel and Oman.

However, there are six countries not on both lists which are top OFW destinations. They are Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates,

Continuation from Page 1

Qatar, Singapore, Kuwait and Bahrain. The DOLE said the six are reportedly partially compliant only with the Act and the DFA is still assessing them.

Expected to be immediately affected by the ban are those who are already processing their documents and those who are scheduled to return to these countries, including former OFWs in Libya who left before the armed conflict started but are looking to return following the death of Muammar Gaddafi and the start of return of normalcy to Libya.

Some countries, however, questioned the ban. According to the website cayCompass.com, Cayman Islands in the Caribbean Sea, where there are about 900 OFWs, questioned the island’s inclusion. The report quoted Honorary Consul Arturo Ursua saying that Cayman’s labor laws may lack specific provisions on migrant workers, but protection is given to foreign workers.

The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) report pointed to Cayman’s guidelines which specified that foreign workers must work at least 45 hours a week to qualify for overtime payment, but they may forego the extra payment Turn to Page 10

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

Publisher & Events Diary

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

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distribution@hello-philippines.com DATE / TIME

EVENT

VENUE

ORGANISER

5 November 2011 Saturday 9:30am (Start) 9:00am (Doors Open)

“Ikaw ang Pag-Ibig” – Film Showing

Curzon Chelsea Cinema, 206 Kings Road, London SW3 5XP

In commemoration of the Tri-Centennial of the Devotion to Ina: Virgin of Penafrancia

6 November 2011 – Sunday 5:00pm

Miss World 2011

Miss World Limited

11 to 12 November 2011 – (Friday and Saturday) 7:30pm

Lahing Kayumanggi’s Annaual Production

12 November 2011 Saturday 11:00am

Lord Mayor’s Show 2011

Earls Court, Earls Court 2, Warwick Road, London SW5 9TA The Cockpit Theatre, Gateforth Street, Marylebone, London NW8 8EH Procession starts from Mansion House

12 November 2011 Saturday 6:00pm

“Big Blue Night in Autumn” – Featuring Wak-Wak Band

19 November 2011 Saturday 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Philippine Jury Campaign International – 6th Annual Anniversary

19 November 2011 Saturday 7:30pm

The Filipino Cultural Show “Lahing Kayumanggi” Dance Company in Cardiff

19 to 26 November 2011

CONTACTS / REMARKS For details please contact 07824 885 573

Lahing Kayumanggi Dance Company

Ronnie Del Barrio 020 7193 9828 / info@lkdance.org.uk

The Lord Mayor’s Office

The Philippines will be participating in this grand event. For more information on the Lord Mayor’s Show 2011 www.lordmayorsshow.org

Chelford Village Hall, Chelford Road, Cheshire SK11 9AS

Samahan ng mga Filipino sa Macclesfield (Filipino Association of Macclesfield)

Erwin Icharas 07917 194 514 / Baden Perez 07701 081 376 / Grace Sagun 07769 173 781 Ticket Price: £12.00 (Food Included)

Baden Powell House, 65 – 67 Queen’s Gate, Gloucester Road, London SW7 5JS Motor Point Arena, Mary Ann Street, Cardiff CF10 2EQ

Philippine Jury Campaign International

www.philjury.com

Samar-Leyte Association, Wales, UK (SLAWUK), Pinoys in Cardiff and other Filipino Organizations

For tickets contact Live Nation www.livenation.co.uk / 07413 039 644 / 07721 087 267 / hughlour2001@gmail.com

2011 Philippine Volcano Climb

Philippines

Fundraising event of the Scottish Filipino Charity

For more details on how to register and itinerary can be found on this link http://www.scottishfilipinocharity.org /?page_id=271

25 to 28 November 2011 – Friday to Sunday

Vice Ganda Royal Sample with Jon Avila

25 November 26 November 27 November 28 November Ireland

Star Events & Entertainment

London – www.seetickets.com Wales – 07795 412 822 / 020 8166 8908 Manchester – www.ticketmaster.co.uk Dublin, Ireland – 020 8166 8908

27 November 2011 – Sunday 12:00pm 30 November 2011 – Wednesday 8:00pm

Filipino Christmas Bazaar

West End Mamas in London Concert Debut!

Philbeach Hall, 51 Philbeach Gardens, Earls Court, London SW5 9EB Café El Paso, 350 – 354 Old Street, London EC1V 9NQ

3 December 2011 – Saturday 1:00pm to 6:00pm 3 December 2011 – Saturday 6:30pm

Parol Workshop – Traditional Philippine Christmas Lantern Share Hope Outreach Event – Pasko the Filipino Christmas Celebration

St Mark’s Church, Old Marylebone Road, London NW1 5QT The Stowe Centre, 258 Harrow Road, London W2 5ES

Philippine Generations

Share Hope Outreach

Becky Sarinas 07949 857 699 / Lina 07579 418 510 / Myrna 07958 623 669 / Nora 07950 294 436

3 December 2011 – Saturday

United Kalinga Apayao Network (UKAN) Christmas Party

Stockwell Community Center, 21 Aytoun Place, London SW9 0TE

United Kalinga Apayao Network (UKAN)

Nellie Lingayo nicole12103@yahoo.co.uk

4 December 2011 – Sunday

FWA-UK Christmas Party 2011

Umi Hotel, London

Filipino Womens Association - UK

10 December 2011 – Saturday 5:00pm

BFAB Christmas Party

Venue to be confirmed

British-Filipino Association of Bradford (BFAB)

11 December 2011 – Sunday 3:30pm to 6:00pm

Share Hope Outreach Event – Children Festive Disco

English Martyrs Church Hall, Chalkhill Road, Wembley Park HA9 9EW

Share Hope Outreach

Becky Sarinas 07949 857 699 / Lina 07579 418 510 / Myrna 07958 623 669 / Nora 07950 294 436

15 December 2011 – Thursday 6:30pm

Masquerade Xmas Party

Riverside Hotel, Mill Street, Mildenhall, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP28 7DP

Fil-Am

Please contact: geraldine.diogo@gmail.com / Tickets: £35.00 (reservation required)

16 December 2011 – Friday

Filipino Community in Bristol Christmas Party

Filipino Community Bristol

17 December 2011 – Saturday 6:00pm to 11:00pm

Annual Dinner & Dance 2011 – Fundraising Event for Filipino Children with Cancer Celebrating Himig ng Pasko in London

Glencoyne Square, Southmead, Bristol BS10 6DE Baden Powell House, 65 – 67 Queen’s Gate, Gloucester Road, London SW7 5JS Colliers Wood Community Hall, 66 – 72 High Street, Colliers Wood, London SW19 2BY

17 December 2011 – Saturday 5:00pm

– – – –

London Wales Manchester Dublin,

Please call: 07931 881 808 / Free Entry Please call: 07961 445 249 / tickets@westendmamas.com / Tickets: £18.00 (which includes a glass of wine)

The Philippine Centre

Ester Limot-Limot 07824 375 870 / Joseph Parinas 07988 760 784 / Tickets: £20.00

TCJ Tours & Travel

Theresa 020 8665 7754 / 07545 011 461

FREE LISTING of your events on the Hello Philippines newspaper and if you know of any Events do not hesitate to contact us. Please kindly contact us and submit your event via email or text to the following at info@hello-philippines.com / 07989 403 904.

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

Cover Story

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November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Philippines bans deployment of workers ... if they agree to do so. The DFA said there had been recent cases brought before the Labour Tribunal in recent years in which foreign workers complained that their employers forced them to sign documents that they were foregoing overtime pay.

Because of the question by some countries, the POEA Board held an emergency meeting on Friday night, 4th November to discuss the request of the DFA to defer the ban for the DFA to have enough time to dialogue with the affected countries.

Although Labor Undersecretary Danilo Cruz is agreeable to defer the ban’s implementation, he said the POEA list was based on DFA’s recommendations. DFA made a review of 203 countries where there are OFWs and it certified that 125 nations complied with Republic Act 11022 or the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995.

Cruz stressed, “The law mandates the implementation of the deployment ban within 15 days after the publication of the POEA resolution in national newspapers, which means that restriction would take effect by November 18.”

Former head of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines-Episcopal Commission on Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP-ECMI), Batangas Archbishop Ramon

Arguelles, supported the move and was quoted as saying, “Please tell the DFA not to close their eyes or minds. Money is not enough. Human dignity is worth more than the dollars these heroes remit.” He added, “The adverse effects (of a deployment ban) would be less than the inhuman treatment (of OFWs) in problematic countries.”

Migrante International said while the prohibition is an indicator of the government’s seriousness in ensuring Pinoy workers overseas have sufficient protection, the group questioned the government’s ability to address the impact of the ban particularly on workers.

Earlier, the POEA placed a temporary ban on deployment of domestic helpers to Cambodia and Malaysia, according to The Independent, a British newspaper.

The paper quoted the report of Human Rights Watch that foreign maids upon arrival in Malaysia are forced to stay in training centres for three months without enough food, water or medical care, while those in Cambodia are starved, beaten and sexually abused.

The newspaper pointed out that, “An estimated nine million Filipinos, or nearly 10 per cent of the population, work abroad, mainly as maids, labourers or seamen. Their remittances – hard

currency earnings sent home to families – have traditionally kept the Philippine economy afloat.”

Former Labour Undersecretary Susan Ople, who heads the Blas F. Ople Policy Center, reminded labor officials, “In our bid to provide our overseas workers with information regarding destination countries, let us make sure that longstanding friendships with certain countries would not be harmed.”

Migrante Chairman Garry Martinez added, “How does the government plan to absorb the inevitable increase in unemployment that the ban will cause? If they are serious in imposing the ban, they should be serious, too, in creating jobs and giving higher wages here in the Philippines.”

Despite the pressure on the Philippine government to lift the ban on some nations, the government’s top priority remains the welfare and protection of Filipino workers. In fact, DOLE insisted the deployment ban on Jordan, Iraq and Nigeria will remain.

“If the government of Jordan can come out with a policy that could ensure protection and lessening of welfare cases, we may consider the lifting of the ban,” said Marianito Roque, administrator of the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. ■

HELLO

European Union pours in P22.48M to save Benguet watersheds

L

A TRINIDAD, Benguet, October 19 (PIA) – The Jaime V. Ongpin Foundation Inc (JVOFI), in partnership with the Benguet Provincial Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), National Commission of Indigenous People (NCIP), Benguet State University (BSU), Peace and Equity Foundation, and CORDNET, are set to implement ‘Saving the Benguet Watersheds for Water’ project in six watershed communities in the province.

To formally launch the project, the JVOFI spearheaded a project symposium and a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing among partner agencies and institutions for its implementation at the provincial capitol, Tuesday.

According to JVOFI executive director Ma. Rosario Lopez, the project aims to increase tangible participation of local government units, local communities, and other stakeholders in the devolved functions of forests, watersheds, and water management through empowered and strengthened partnership.

Lopez said that the project’s means of intervention shall be the common need to ensure continued water supply through sustainable management of Benguet’s remaining communal watersheds, and to demonstrate this communal water systems shall be constructed in the project’s six target sites, which aims to provide a fusion of forest/watershed management and water sustainability.

The project, which aims to be finished

by August of 2012, will be implemented in the municipalities of Tublay (Ambassador), Bokod (Poblacion), Atok (Poblacion), Kibungan (Sagpar), Tuba (Camp 1), and Sablan (Banangan).

The total project cost is 434,000 Euro (about P26.45 million), wherein the European Union (EU) will be providing 368,900 Euro (about 85 percent of the project cost) while the remainder will be provided by the JVOFI and the Peace and Equity Foundation.

EU delegation to the Philippines Attache, Matthieu Penot lauded all their local partners and stakeholders as he expressed his optimism for the project’s success. He also looks toward a continuing partnership in strengthening environment protection programs.

On the part of the province, Governor Nestor Fongwan thanked partners and stakeholders for the implementation of such project in Benguet.

According to Fongwan, the project will have a big impact in the province as aside from saving, rehabilitating, and preserving the remaining forests and watersheds of Benguet, it would also benefit the communities and the people, through the construction of a ommunal water system.

Fongwan also said that through the project, the local communities, LGUs, and other stakeholders will also be given an opportunity to forge a closer alliance for effective and efficient governance of communal forests and watersheds.

Also signatories to the MOA were DENR regional executive director Clarence Baguilat Jr., DILG regional director Corazon Guray, NCIP regional director Sancho Buquing, and CORDNET Representative Jimmy Fong. *(JDP/ LD-PIA CAR) ■ Source: PIA

PHILIPPINES

SUPPORT FOR PUERTO PRINCESA UNDERGROUND RIVER

The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park is located about 50 km north of the city of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. It features a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2 km. navigable underground river. A distinguishing feature of the river is that it winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. It includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites, and several large chambers. The lower portion of the river is subject to tidal influences. The underground river is reputed to be the world’s longest. At the mouth of the cave, a clear lagoon is framed by ancient trees growing right to the water’s edge. Monkeys, large monitor lizards, and squirrels find their niche on the beach near the cave.

The official nominee of the Philippines to the New 7 Wonders of Nature

Original Creation and Copyright Reserved By: Hello Philippines 2011

Lito Dar

Continuation from Page 4

VOTE NOW log-on to: www.new7wonders.com

Tel: 020 7440 2626 £165

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

www.hello-philippines.com

Special Feature

The Making of a Beauty Queen

S

ome would say it must be her face—wellchiseled, charming, one of a kind, or in cases, exotic. Some would argue it must be her intelligence—quick, profound, unpretentious, yet competitive.

But some also would delve into her winning character—humble, refined, confident, and welcoming.

But that is because each of us has its own standards of beauty.

What may be all things Asian considered a charmer for others may not be the standard of beauty to those who believe that a superior beauty is that of the European kind.

But truth be told, a real beauty queen is all that, and then some.

Real beauty is one that is not even classic, but timeless and universal. In these ever-changing times, what’s beautiful today may no longer be beautiful tomorrow.

Such is the case, a real beauty, therefore, goes beyond the

boundaries of time and nature.

Her physical beauty—face, body, skin—must not just represent a certain era or definition of beauty.

Hers must be something that, when seen 10 or 20 years from now, can still be perceived as something beautiful, even after all those years. Hers must not be of a fleeting trend.

Beauty is not only skin deep.

While physical beauty is possibly the first thing that people would notice, it is not almost always the one thing that lasts in one’s mind.

Something about the character and values that a woman upholds that define her as beautiful, as well.

It must be because she is naturally welcoming of different cultures and beliefs and, therefore, is respectful of them. There is something about a woman’s strength and confidence that makes her beautiful as well.

Or perhaps because she is good inside and out, and without a doubt proven by her track record of social work, or simply shown

by a genuine desire to help, in or outside her comfort zones. And her goodness is just contagious, which makes you wish to be like her or follow her footsteps. Or who knows, charity may even be her surname.

Beauty is communication in itself, and it must be communicated well and clear. Action speaks louder than words, they say, but not often so. A beautiful person is someone who can also speak with substance, and knows very well the effect of words she imparts to her listeners. One who understands that communication, clear, concise, and correct, can effect change in the community they serve or intend to serve. Most of all, she understands that there is nothing one cannot fix with proper communication. Besides, they are ambassadors, aren’t they?

Needless to say, they must have the brains and eloquence to be able to speak what they mean to say to be understood well.

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition PHOTO BY: LEO SUNPONGCO

Ivian Lunasol Sarcos Colmenares (Miss World Venezuela 2011 Winner), Gwendoline Ruais (Miss World Philippines 2011 1st Runner-Up and Amanda Victoria Vilanova Perez (Miss World Puerto Rico 2011 2nd Runner-Up) PHOTO BY: LEO SUNPONGCO

Riza Santos (Miss World Canada 2011), Maya Celeste Padillo Olesen (Miss World Denmark 2011) and Gwendoline Ruais (Miss World Philippines 2011)

A real beauty queen is performing. And here is where the action begins. A beauty queen doesn’t get to be seated too often on her throne. She doesn’t only speak, she also acts or performs. In fact, you have many responsibilities as a beauty queen, which would require you to have the stamina to handle it. If you have been crowned, and you forget or failed to do your responsibilities, hence, you are no beauty queen.

Give them back your crown, please!

The list might go on and on, like forever. But a real beauty queen, once and for all, is someone who cannot be defined by all the nouns, adjectives, and linking verbs alone nor cannot be created by all the moisturizing creams and whitening lotions of this world.

I say this again, a beauty queen is all this, all encompassing, and more.

For the judges of beauty competitions, carefully picked among many leading personalities of this world, just know it when a deserving beauty queen comes in, her presence is like a mind-blowing experience. And as most of them would say after each competition, almost always referring to the crowned winner, which goes something like this: You just know it, the moment she steps in, walks, and talks, you just say ‘wow’—with eyes wide open.

So when you think you have all this, and more, wrapped within you, chances are, you might just have the making of the next beauty queen. ■

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November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Politics & Social Issues

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Maguindanao after 2 years Vittorio Hernandez

N

ovember is a month for remembering the November 1 and 2 holidays. However, for residents of Maguindanao Province in southern Philippines, November will remain for years a time to grieve for 57 residents, including 34 journalists who lost their lives in one of the most violent crimes in Philippine political history.

November 23, 2009 was the day the Maguindanao Massacre took place. On that day which many residents would rather bury in memory, relatives of then Buluan Vice Mayor Esmael Mangudadatu and journalists who were on their way to the Commission on Election regional officer were ambushed by armed men believed to belong to former Maguindanao Governor Andal Ampatuan Sr. Mangudadatu was spared because he was not part of the convoy on its way to the Comelec, but his wife, other relatives and

dozens of local journalists were killed brutally by armed men and buried. The vice mayor was scheduled to file his candidacy for governor of Maguindanao, which irked the Ampatuans because of a previous agreement within the administration party that no Mangudadatu would run against an Ampatuan.

The number of dead people and the gory manner they were killed and buried captured national and international attention.

Although the principal suspects, the Ampatuans are now detained and several multiple murder charges have been filed against them, justice comes slow for the victims who have been waiting for it the past two years.

The Ampatuans have attempted every trick in the book to get off the hook including using their illness not to be detained in common jail to allegedly offering multi-million peso bribes for witnesses to recant their testimonies.

Since their tactics are not succeeding because of the media

Region of Muslim Mindanao Governor Zaldy Ampatuan offered to turn state witness and spill the beans on his own family to be removed from the list of suspects.

Though justice has been relatively slow for the Maguindanao Massacre victims, there had been some recent changes in the province. The Ampatuans, considered a warlord, have been disarmed with the seizure by the military of weapon caches from their properties. The raids revealed not only a stockpile of armaments, but also ostentatious wealth as evidenced by the numerous vehicles and palatial mansions of the clan members.

Mangudadatu, who capitalised on the tragedy, easily won the local election that year and emerged as the new governor of the province.

The abuse of power by the Ampatuans, often blamed on the clan’s closeness with former Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, actually has its Despite the passage of 2 years, justice continues roots with the appointment in 1986 to elude the 57 victims of the Maguindanao Massacre as the hearings drag on. by former President Corazon Aquino of Andal Sr. as officer-in-charge of town of Maganoy, now called Shariff scrutiny on the case, members of Aguak. the once-powerful Mindanao clan At their height of power, 18 are now turning against one another. mayors in Maguindanao were part Recently, suspended Autonomous of the Ampatuan clan.

HELLO PHILIPPINES

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Prominent members of the Ampatuan clan have been moved from their special cell in the National Bureau of Investigation office in Manila to the Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig, where the hearings are held.

Not surprisingly, the Ampatuans have filed not guilty pleas to the charges filed against them.

To expedite the trial, Quezon City Judge Jocelyn Solis-Reyes who presides over the case ordered the prosecution to prepare five or six witnesses per trial day instead of two. She also suggested holding the hearing thrice instead of twice a week.

Prosecutors cited the difficulties in having so many witnesses including getting interpreters since many of them do not speak Filipino, the cost of flying them to Manila and assuring them of their safety.

Considering how the Ampatuans still continue to throw their weight around, providing such assurances of safety to potential witnesses is definitely hindering the speedy resolution of the massacre considered the largest involving members of the media. ■

Britain braces for another general strike on November 30 Vittorio Hernandez

A

fter being derailed by the London riots and the Occupy London Stock Exchange (OLSX) demonstrations, UK is going back to a major public unrest that started a few months ago because of the austerity programme put in place by the coalition government.

On Wednesday, November 30 2011, another general strike would likely hit the country to protest the budget cuts made by the government which would cut jobs, reduce social benefits and change retirement laws.

In the middle of the year, several general strikes were launched by major British trade unions to pressure the British government to change the planned changes and budget cuts. The previous general strikes paralysed transportation, closed schools and hospitals and showed the government that British workers are fed up with the cuts after they had tightened their belts so many times since the 2008 global financial crisis.

The November 30 strike has long been planned by the unions and was confirmed on November 3 when UNISON announced the result of a strike ballot among union members. A total of 245,358 members favoured a general strike

UNISON, the biggest trade union in Britain with 1.3 million members, is once more spearheading the November 30 industrial action.

over 70,253 who rejected the planned industrial action.

By type of worker, 30 per cent or 171,428 of local government workers who belong to UNISON – the largest public sector union in United Kingdom with 1.3 million members – favoured the strike against the 54,500 who were against the industrial action, while only 73,930 National Health Service (NHS) employees agreed to a job walkout versus 15,753 who were against the planned strike.

However, voter turnout was just 29 per cent. UNISON actually send out 1.1 million voting papers to members including nurses, teachers, teaching assistants, social workers, care assistants,

paramedics, police staff, school dinner ladies, refuse collectors, probation officers and other public servants.

UNISON General Secretary Dave Prentis said the votes showed the deep concern of members over the government proposal for pensions.

Expected to join the strike are between two and three million public workers made up of teachers, civil servants and other public sector workers mainly to protest a planned increase in pension contributions. Union officials said it would be the biggest industrial action since the Winter of Discontent in 1979.

Results of strike ballot of

other major unions are expected to be out in the coming days beginning with the tutors’ union which counts 220,000 teachers.

The government belittled the Unison voting figures, saying it was a show of limited support for the planned job walkout.

The government added even if the general strike would push through, the NHS has alternative plans in place to ensure patient care would not suffer.

Cabinet Office Minister Francis Maude said he finds it disappointing that union members plan to push through with the strike despite the low voter turnout. Instead of going ahead with their industrial action,

Maude urged public sector workers to use their time to reach an agreement.

Maude claimed that the new government offer over pensions is a generous one which is “beyond the dream of most private employees.” He said the new offer has a more generous accrual rate, protects employees within 10 years of their pension age and guaranteed retirement benefits not affected by market fluctuations or fees.

Prentis acknowledged that the new offer was a considerable improvement from previous proposals, but was short of being translated into scheme specific talks. ■

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Immigration News

Changes to the student visa system - Cutting abuse and raising standards

U

K – 2 November 2011: Tough new rules and enforcement action to stop abuse of the student visa system mean that over 450 education providers will no longer be able to sponsor new international students.

In total these colleges could have brought more than 11,000 students into the UK to study each year.

New UK Border Agency regulations have significantly raised the standards education providers must meet before they can bring international students to the UK. So far, over 400 colleges have lost their right to recruit international students after they failed to sign up for the new inspection system. As well as cutting abuse, the new standards will help ensure that genuine international students receive the highest quality education.

In addition, a targeted UK Border Agency investigation into more than 100 colleges has led to 51 having their licences to recruit international students revoked. The investigation followed a spike in applications from South Asia just before the English language requirement rules were tightened. More than 4,500 of these applications to study have been refused or withdrawn as a result.

One college advertised classes even though the website said it was

shut for maintenance, while another could not even produce a list of students enrolled or a timetable of classes. On inspection, others could not produce any records of student attendance, or evidence of checking student qualifications.

Immigration Minister, Damian Green said: ‘Widespread abuse of the student visa system has gone on for too long and the changes we have made are beginning to bite. Too many institutions were offering international students an immigration service rather than an education and too many students have come to the UK with the aim of getting work and bringing over family members. Only first-class education providers should be given licences to sponsor international students.

We have curbed the opportunities to work during study and bring in family members. We have also introduced new language requirements to ensure we only attract genuine students whose primary motivation is to study.’

As well as going through tough new inspections, colleges that want to keep bringing in international students must also meet new higher sponsorship standards to ensure they are fulfilling their immigration responsibilities. Those who do not meet these standards will be

removed from the sponsorship register.

The UK Border Agency has also created a list of more than 2,000 banks and financial institutions who can no longer provide evidence to verify a student has sufficient funds for their course. If a bank is on the list, a student citing that institution will not be granted a visa.

Further measures to tighten the student regime are due in April. The post study work route, which has allowed graduates free labour market access, will be closed and students wishing to stay and work will need to apply under the skilled workers visa route. There will also be new time limits on student visas and tougher rules on work placements. In the mean time the UK Border Agency is continually monitoring the behaviour of all sponsors and will take action against any that are not complying with standards of education provision or immigration control.

The changes to the student route form part of the Government’s comprehensive package to overhaul the immigration system, taking action on families, settlement, those coming here to work, as well as students, in order to bring immigration levels back down to sustainable levels. ■ SOURCE: UKBA

Changes to the list of English language tests

U

K – 4 October 2011: Today we have made some amendments to the list of approved English language test providers for applications made under Tiers 1, 2 and 4 of the pointsbased system and for spouse or partner applications.

The amendments include: three tests awarded by Cambridge ESOL now offer certification at 3 levels of the Common European Framework rather than just 2 levels.

The tests include the Cambridge English: Key, Cambridge English: Preliminary and Cambridge English: Business Preliminary the Educational Testing Service (ETS) have updated their web address for their test of English for international communication (TOEIC) and test of English as a foreign language (TOEFL) Pearson have updated their contact details and clarified that they do not issue paper certificates

Website of fake university is removed

U

K – 7 October 2011: An investigation carried out by Somerset County Council has seen the fake ‘Glastonbury University’ website removed.

It was feared that the website, which promoted a fictitious university, was being used to target unsuspecting applicants, particularly in the Far East. A London university reported the site after receiving an application from a student who

claimed to have a degree from Glastonbury University.

Investigations by Somerset County Council trading standards officers have resulted in the domain name and site being removed by specialist Metropolitan Police officers.

The investigation also revealed that the address given on the website for the university is actually an empty office building in the centre of town, and the impressive glass building featured on

separate certificate and notification of candidate results sheet are required for speaking part of the City and Guilds English language test You can download the revised list from the UKBA website. When you make an application in an immigration category that requires you to demonstrate your English language ability, you must show that you have passed an appropriate test on the list. ■ SOURCE: UKBA

the site is in fact a library belonging to the University of Leicester.

The trading standards investigation involved contact with overseas companies and regulators including the Florida FBI, as well as correspondence with central government, and culminated in the domain name’s removal from the world wide web. This was achieved in co-operation with the police central e-crime unit of the Metropolitan Police. ■ SOURCE: UKBA

List of financial institutions for Tier 4 is published

U

K – 24 October 2011: In June 2011, we announced that we would be publishing a list of financial institutions which we consider, on the basis of experience, do not verify financial statements to our satisfaction. Today we are publishing an initial list of financial institutions that fall under this category.

We will use the list when verifying maintenance funds under Tier 4 of the points-based system. An applicant will receive no points for maintenance

if they submit documents showing that the funds are held in a financial institution on the list.

The list forms part of the reforms to the student immigration route.

The change is to ensure that we can verify that student visa applicants hold the required maintenance funds to support themselves and pay for their course in the UK. We will give a 30-day notice period from the date when a financial institution is first listed before the new rule takes effect. This will enable

applicants to make the necessary financial arrangements, so that they can provide financial documentation which meets the new requirements.

The list will be kept under review, and we will make additions or deletions as appropriate.

We will continue to verify financial information from financial institutions not on the list, on a case-by-case basis. We may refuse applications on the basis of these individual checks. ■ SOURCE: UKBA

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Reduction in jobs available to migrants

U

K – 18 October 2011: Specialist jobs that are no longer required in the UK will be removed from a governmentapproved list that helps to ensure the UK only accepts migrant workers that the country needs.

The shortage occupation is part of the Tier 2 immigration route via the Points Based System. Highly skilled migrants from outside the European Economic Area (EEA) seeking to work in the UK must apply for visas via this route.

The government today accepted recommendations from the independent Migration Advisory Committee (MAC) that will see the number of jobs covered by the list drop by 40,000, bringing the total down from 230,000 to 190,000.

Only a minority of these jobs will be filled by migrant workers.

The MAC recommended the changes where evidence from a range of industries and sectors showed resident workers are available to fill the vacancies.

Immigration Minister Damian Green said: ‘Alongside our limits on overseas workers we are also taking action to provide businesses with the skills they need from the British workforce and reduce their need for migrants. We want the brightest and the best people from outside the EU with the skills we can benefit from in the UK.’ Occupations that the MAC recommended be removed from the list include: • secondary education biology teachers; • speech and language therapists;

• • • •

pharmacists; orthoptists; veterinary surgeons; and, rank and file orchestral musicians.

Added to the list will be: • actuaries; • high integrity pipe welders; • environmental scientists; and, • geochemists The government has accepted the MAC’s recommended list in full however, rank and file orchestral musicians will not be removed from the list immediately, until further discussions take place with the industry to discuss the resident labour market test.

The revised list will come into effect from 14 November 2011.

This means that: • For applications covered by the annual limit, the new list will apply to all applications

by Tier 2 sponsors for restricted certificates of Sponsorship made on or after 14 November 2011.

• For applications outside the annual limit, the new list will apply to all unrestricted certificates of sponsorship assigned to migrants on or after 14 November 2011.

Employers can only bring someone into the UK under Tier 2 if the job is on the shortage occupation list or if they pass a resident labour market test (no suitable resident workers apply after advertising the job in the UK first for 4 weeks). ■ SOURCE: UKBA

Changes to settlement requirements for Tier 2 migrants and work permit holders

U

K – 28 October 2011: On 6 April 2011, the Immigration Rules were amended to introduce a salary requirement for settlement applications made by work permit holders and migrants under Tier 2 of the points-based system. Their applications must now include written confirmation from their employer or sponsor that they are being paid at or above the appropriate rate for their job as set out in the Tier 2 codes of practice.

From 31 October 2011, there will be further changes to the Immigration Rules. Work permit holders and Tier 2 migrants will need to provide specified documents to confirm that they are being paid at or above the appropriate rate for their job. This is in addition to the employer’s confirmation.

From 31 October, any settlement application by a Tier 2

migrant or a work permit holder must include: • a payslip and a personal bank or building society statement; or • a payslip and a building society pass book.

If they do not provide this evidence, their application may be refused.

Before we amended the Immigration Rules in April to incorporate an income requirement for settlement, we conducted an equality impact assessment. You can find this in our Impact assessments section.

The 31 October changes to the Rules are considered to be relatively minor and do not change that assessment. We will continue to have regard to the equality considerations of these changes, and will work to limit or mitigate, where possible, any adverse impact that is identified. ■ SOURCE: UKBA

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Special Report

From dust to ashes Vittorio Hernandez

T

he biblical passage that the priests says to the faithful on Ash Wednesday, “From dust you came, to dust you shall return,” has become literally true for thousands of Filipinos who have died and were cremated.

Over the years, cremation has gained more acceptability among Filipinos particularly those living in urban areas where the price of cemetery lots and memorial services could cause the living relatives of the deceased to suffer a heart attack.

Ironically, Philippine Daily Inquirer columnist Michael Tan observed that the practice of cremating their dead is more popular among the upper class who have opted for simpler funerals and death rituals.

Instead of long wakes, the deceased is cremated right away so what mourners find is just an urn with the ashes, a large photograph of the dead person and a PowerPoint slide presentation recalling happier times. After the ashes are deposited in a columbarium vault, a memorial service is usually held days later which gives the family of the deceased more time to prepare.

The Vatican amended in 1983 the Code of Canon Law which allowed cremation for Roman Catholics. In

1991, when my mother passed away, there was only one crematorium in the Philippines – the Manila Memorial Park in Paranaque.

Since then, more crematoriums sprouted as more Filipinos have opted to cremate their loved ones, including some celebrities who passed away over the years.

The recent list includes master rapper Francis Magalona, the son of actor Cesar Montano, Juancho Gutierrez who was the husband of Gloria Romero and the father of actress Maja Salvador, former actor Ross Rival.

No less than the Catholic Church has observed the rise in acceptance of cremation among Pinoys. The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines, in its newsletter, wrote, “Cremation has been constantly gaining acceptance, especially in urban areas where there are crematoriums. Reasons vary from practicality, hygiene, economic conditions of the family, or personal choice of the departed.”

CBCP spokesman Msgr. Pepe Quitorio explained that while cremation has caught on among Filipinos, rural Pinoys still balk at the idea and prefer to stick to the traditional burial.

Joseph Dychangco, president of the Philippine Mortuary Association, confirmed the observation of the CBCP that the growing acceptance of cremation is limited to urban areas

Shipping corpses S hipping corpses is one reality Filipino families with relatives working or living abroad have to face squarely and more Pinoys leave the Philippines temporarily or permanently.

Since majority of OFWs are contract workers, most of them eventually return home to retire and die in the Philippines. However, because of the rise of abusive employers or medical emergencies, some Pinoys die while overseas and need to be shipped home in a box.

Shipping a corpse is less of a problem for Filipinos who migrate permanently to other countries since their second country has also become their burial grounds.

However, since death is one of the permanent things in our existence, some OFW families would inevitably have to face that problem, including tedious paperwork and a large amount of money.

To guide OFW families, Hello Philippines has come up with some vital information on shipping a corpse.

Procedure & Documents

Procedures and requirements will vary from country to country, and even state to state or province to province.

However, among the procedures common to ship a corpse, which some funeral parlours usually assists in some aspects, are: • Securing of a death certificate • Securing a certificate of embalming issued by a local morgue.

• Providing a notification to a local authority of plans to transport the body, which is usually followed by a doctor or authority sealing the casket.

• Coordinating with the Philippine consulate or embassy where the body of the deceased OFW is

located to secure more permits or to have official language translation of the documents accompanying the corpse. The passport of the deceased is required to establish the identity and nationality.

• Coordination with the airline or shipping company for the transport of the body.

• Notifying consulates of the destination countries for the transport firm to issue a shipping permit.

• Placing the body in a wooden, metallined, air-tight casket which is then placed inside a standard wooden shipping box.

Some American air carriers have more details of their corpse handling and shipment services available on their website. The air carriers with such services include American Airlines, Continental Air and Delta Airways. Whilst in the United Kingdom the air carrier is Emirates.

Costs

Cost is dependent on the weight of the casket and destination, but usually the human remains are charged cargo rates, not passenger rates.

Added costs are incurred if a person such as relative or a funeral director would accompany the corpse.

A Greek website estimates the cost to run from €1,500 to €4,000 (P90,000 to P240,000).

American Airlines charges a minimum of $575 (P25,000) for remains weighing 1 to 75 lb. to as much as $3,225 (P139,000) for those 501 lbs or more for Europeor Pacific- bound corpses. Outside the shipment cost there would be taxes and other fees to be paid along the way from airport or seaport of departure to arrival.

The vaults at St. Therese Columbarium which could accommodate up to four urns per vault.

where burial space is limited.

However, he pointed out that in the provinces such as Cebu where he runs the Cosmopolitan Funeral Homes, about 98 per cent of burials are still done the traditional way.

Definitely, cost is one of the considerations why urban Filipinos opt for cremation. Buying a lot in cemetery would cost five to six figures, while a modest wake for a few days would cost several thousands of pesos.

Mausoleums, which rich Filipinos, avail of could go as high as P4 million.

With cremation, the bereaved family could prefer to skip the wake and have the body cremated right way, although because of tradition many families often hold a wake first to give relatives and friends of the deceased a last opportunity to view the mortal remains before the corpse is cremated.

Inflation, though, has caught up with cremation services. In 1991, the cremation fee was about P6,000.

Continental Airlines computes charges for human remains at 150 per cent of one-kilo rate, with a minimum of not less than 150 per cent of applicable minimum charge.

For remains between 500 to 700 lbs., Continental charges 125 per cent of applicable rate, and 200 per cent for human remains over 700 lbs., including the container.

Royal Jordanian charges an average of $2,000 to $3,000 (P86,000 to P129,000) per body from the U.S. to the Middle East; to Asia, it should cost a bit more.

In western countries like the U.S. where dying has become a big business, mortuary services have specialised that there even exists an organization called the American Association of Mortuary Shippers to cater to the special needs of families with dead relatives from another part of the state or the world.

Casper Funeral Services, based in Boston, Massachusetts, offers a flat international funeral shipping service fee from six U.S. states to anywhere in the world at $3,840 (P164,000), plus the international airfare of a live passenger, which would bring total cost to about $5,000 (P213,000) or half of the standard cost of $10,000 (P426,000).

American Airlines came up with the code “Jim Wilson” to refer to a dead body traveling as airplane cargo. The use of the code is so as not to scare passengers that a corpse was in the same plane they rode.

Cremated remains

With the growing popularity of cremation as an alternative, some air companies have also come up with separate guidelines for shipping cremated remains. The guidelines are usually less stringent than those for shipping corpse, such as the waiving of the burial transit permit.

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition When my father passed away in 2004, the cremation fee had gone up to P10,000. However, when I inquired from Loyola in 2010 how much is the cost, I was surprised to learn it has jumped to P25,000!

Fortunately, the cost of urn has hardly changed. A marble urn still costs about P3,000.

Another new cost to people who have their loved ones cremated is the vault where the urns are placed. In 1991, there were no columbariums in the country to deposit the ashes. That time, we just kept the urn with my mother’s ashes at home until the family learned the Catholic Church frowned on the practice.

As the practice of cremation became popular several crematoriums have cropped up in Metro Manila. So, that led me to scout for columbariums. I was shocked to discover a vault which could contain about four urns costs also five digits. I got one in St. Therese Columbarium near the airport for almost P60,000. If you divide that into four urns, the cost is still affordable at P15,000 per urn.

However, that is still low compared to prices of vaults in other columbariums such as P105,000 at the Serenity Columbarium, P70,000 to P100,000 at the Garden of Divine Word and P68,500 at the Sanctuarium – all in Quezon City.

Memorial park operators in Metro Manila reported swift sale of vaults, as fast as lots. In 2006, the Loyola Memorial Park in Paranaque added 3,000 more vaults after its first 500 units were easily

sold out in 2005. Similarly, Loyola in Marikina also built 3,000 units in 2006 after the 2,000 units were all sold the year before.

On November 1, the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart in Makati inaugurated its 1,000-vault columbarium which costs P100,000.

Sale has been fast, indicating a growing acceptance for cremation among middle-class Filipinos since the community where the shrine is located is a mid-income one.

There are also lower-priced vaults in more distance locations such as the Divine Mercy Columbarium in Bulacan where vaults cost only P20,000.

In many columbariums, cost of vault actually varies depending on the elevation. The most expensive are usually those on the eye level of the visitor, while the vaults which are on the top-most or lower-most levels often cost less.

Dychango, however, disputed that cremation costs less, particularly for rural areas. He estimated modest burial in Cebu would cost the family of the bereaved P25,000 for the wake and another P10,000 for a lot in a public cemetery.

Dychangco said traditional burial would continue to be the preferred option for majority of Filipinos, not so much for lower cost but because of tradition. In the end, it is not so much the cost that matters to Pinoys, but acceptability of a burial option for their loved one. ■

The ashes must be initially placed inside a polyurethane bag with a cardboard outside packaging. Metal containers or urns are allowed as inner packaging.

Shipping cremated remains costs much less. American Airlines charges $190 (P8,000) for ashes and container weighing from 1 to 75 lbs. for all international destinations.

in performing its duty and limiting its services to registered OFWs, possibilities of OWWA assistance along this line would be a far-off thought for many Filipino migrant workers.

One alternative would be to have the remains cremated first to cut down substantially on cost. However, although cremation is gaining more acceptability among urban Filipinos, the majority still prefer the oldfashioned way of burial so this option would still be less preferred by many Filipino families.

Another option would be to have just a bit of the ashes in a locket or small container to be brought back to the country by one relative and letting the bulk of the ashes be left abroad.

One more alternative is to have them buried overseas. This alternative will work for Filipinos who have some relatives abroad who could take care of the funeral and burial.

Shipping human remains is a big problem that many Filipinos remain unprepared for, partly because death is still considered a taboo.

However, for families which had become more open and prepared for such eventualities, matters like those could be dealt with in advance such as if the OFW puts in writing his wishes on how his remains should be handled in a document often called “living will”.

Under such circumstances, the migrant worker not only would have more “control” and “say” in his own funeral, he could also spare his family of headaches and worries should he pass away when abroad.

Saying goodbye to a love one will always be a hard step to take for the families of a migrant worker, but sometimes the bigger problem is how to bid the dead adieu because his last mortal remains are miles and miles away. ■

Alternatives

Due to the generally prohibitive cost of shipping human remains, many OFW families would have second thoughts about it particularly if the dead overseas worker is the sole breadwinner and the rest of the family is dependent on the migrant worker.

In some cases, the foreign employer shoulders the cost, particularly if the migrant worker died while on the job. The bigger problem would be for abused workers like those in the Middle East, whose employers would dispute that abuse was committed and would insist the worker sustained injuries, which led to eventual death, while trying to escape.

Sometimes, the Philippine government would shoulder the cost of shipping the human remains, particularly if it is a high-profile case like that of Filipina domestic helper Flor Contemplacion, who was hanged in 1995 in Singapore for the death of a fellow Filipina DH. But those cases are far and few in between.

The Overseas Workers’ Welfare Administration (OWWA) is supposed to have a repatriation program under its Workers Assistance and On-Site Services. The program is supposed to include negotiations with employers and agents, repatriation of distressed workers, human remains and belongings, airport assistance, OWWA Halfway House accommodation, and coordination with families.

However, given OWWA’s poor record

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

Special Feature

www.hello-philippines.com

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Paco Park: From a cemetery to a venue to celebrate life Vittorio Hernandez

O

n All Saints and All Souls Day, while majority of cemeteries in the country are full of people, Paco Park in Manila is unusually quiet. It was because Paco Park has ceased from being known as a cemetery, but a place to celebrate life.

The corpses are still there, but because they are decadesold and the park no longer allows interment, the park has become a popular venue for weddings, concerts and promenading.

Among the recent performers at the park were the Prestige Quartet which held their show on October 21 and the Singing Brawners and Friends on October 29.

The Prestige Quarter is made up of four male university students who won first place in the International Collegiate Barbershop Competition in July 2011 held at Kansas City, Montana. They bested 21 quartets from around the world.

For this month, the lineup of Paco Park Presents are Kammerata Philippines on November 4, the Water Music Chamber Group on November 11, “A Love Story” on November 18 and “Paulinian Talents, in Focus” on November 25.

Kammerata Philippines features choirs that have extensive background in solo, group and choral singing. The musical is under the direction of Joseph Kenania.

Water Music Chamber Group, the second feature for November, is made up of members of the national orchestra wind section who are under the baton of music director Ariel Sta. Ana. For the third week, “A Love Story” presents Danish soprano Helle Gossler Christensen Moralez, French tenor Dominique Moralez and the Payatas Kids

Choir in one hour of songs of love and praise music.

Finally, Paco Park’s finale for November is the “Paulinian Talents, in Focus.” To be featured are the outstanding music students of the St. Paul University Manila College of Music and the Performing Arts to showcase the students’ talents. The show is under the music direction of Sr. Anunziata Sta. Ana. These performances are held at the circular garden, the centre piece of Paco Park.

The circular garden measuring 4,114.8 square metres was Manila’s municipal burial grounds during the Spanish colonial era. It is bound

by General Luna, Padre Faura and San Marcelino Streets, located about one block away from the Light Rail Transit’s United Nations Avenue station.

The inner circular fort originally served as cemetery for rich Spanish families and governor-generals who lived in the district called before Dilao, now known as Paco. Eventually the cemetery, built in the late 18th century, served as burial grounds for cholera epidemic victims from Manila.

The niches were placed on the walls of the cemetery, which eventually expanded to have a second wall with more niches, with special sections such as one for infants.

Right in front of the infant burial ground is the Saint Pancratius chapel, where the wedding ceremonies are now held.

Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal was interred temporarily at Paco Park after he was executed by Spanish authorities on December 30, 1896. There is a marker and cross of Rizal’s burial spot.

There is also a commemorative marker for the three Filipino

The St. Pancratius Chapel entrance which opens to the circular park which is a good spot to hold the wedding reception

The St. Pancratius Chapel which is a popular venue for weddings

priests collectively called Gomburza – for Fathers Gomez, Burgos and Zamora – who were also buried in Paco Park.

To add to the park’s historical past, the cemetery, which stopped burials in 1912, was used by Japanese forces as ammunition and supply depot because its high and thick adobe walls served as good protective barriers for defense.

In 1966, the park was declared a national park and restored to its old and historic beauty. The park gained further public notice in 1980 when it played host to classical concerts, initially to celebrate Philippine-German month. The concerts, which were televised over government station PTV 4, became a Friday afternoon event called Paco Park Presents.

When there are no concerts or weddings, the park is one of the favourite places foreign tourists see because it brings them back to a period in Philippine

Marker and cross of Rizal’s Burial spot

history. The park is one of the recommended places to see for foreign visitors to see when in Manila.

Young Pinoy lovers find Paco Park a place to date. It is also a good place to seek shade during summer with the old and wide acacia and frangipani trees spread within. Entrance fee is a very affordable P5 per head, but admission is free during Friday nights for the concert.

The St. Pancratius chapel is run by the Vincentian Fathers, who also operate the nearby Adamson University.

They charge P15,000 for the use of the chapel. Couples who marry in the chapel may opt to hold their wedding reception on the park itself. To do that, they have to make separate arrangements with the Luneta Park office, which maintains the park.

The chapel is popular as wedding venue, so couples

Commemorative marker for the 3 Filipino priests called Gomburza

who want to hold their union in the church are advised to book months before the planned wedding day, particularly if they prefer a weekend wedding ceremony. The chapel is among the top 10 favourite wedding venues of Filipino couples, according to a wedding website.

Website Blissful Weddings noted that the chapel is ideal for intimate weddings because all the guests could hear what the priest is saying without a microphone. The website suggested that to capture the beauty of the place, the bride should walk from the foundation to the altar to have both indoor and outdoor video and photo shots of the place.

Another website, philweddings.blogspot.com, describes the park as “one of the most surreal venues” for a wedding, but acknowledged that “Paco Park defies explanation and must be experienced to be appreciated completely.”

Among the Filipinos who recently have tied the knot at Paco Park wearing black instead of the traditional white were Kamikazee band frontman Jay Contreras and former child actress Sarah Abad who married on February 12, 2009.

The park is also a favourite location shooting for romantic movies such as the recent Miss You Like Crazy that starred Bea Alonzo and John Lloyd Cruz.

With its historic value, romantic atmosphere and good location, Paco Park is one place Filipinos should visit even if they do not have any loved ones interned in the cemetery. ■

Property

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Masterpiece home to rise in Eastwood City

E

astwood LeGrand Tower 3 is soon to rise at the new Palm District of Eastwood City, which is deemed to be an ‘Art Deco’ masterpiece with its iconic design. This luxury project of the Megaworld Corporation will offer an executive studio and one-bedroom flats starting from the 7th to 22nd

floors, while the upper floors will hold one- and two-bedroom loft units. The condominium will showcase amenities, such as a swimming pool, play deck, jogging path, fitness gym, function rooms, culinary station, entertainment pavilion, and massage room, among others. ■

Elements at Centris to suit your event needs

A

new venue called Elements at Centris, by Eton Properties Philippines, Inc., recently opened at the 12-hectare Eton Centris that is found at the gateway of the Triangle Park Central Business District in Quezon City.

According to reports, it will serve the purpose of hosting social or business functions and events, such as product launches, team

buildings, concerts, conferences, bazaars, weddings, and other parties.

Features of the said venue are sufficient parking areas with 24hour security, air-conditioned halls, air-conditioned and fully furnished suites, catering service areas, backup generators, and other necessary facilities that make it the perfect venue for events and occasions. ■

F

www.hello-philippines.com

Filinvest latest residential development

ilinvest recently introduced its newest residential project, Asiana Oasis, which is located inside Paranaque’s Multinational Village and is offering 200 housing units. The 1.2 hectare residential development seeks to provide a comforting space in the midst of a chaotic metropolis, with its four five-story mid-rise residential

buildings said to have underground roads perfect for some R ‘n’ R. Amenities of the Asiana Oasis are a clubhouse, fitness gym, music room or bar, swimming pool, and sunning deck, among other things. Options for residential units of a start-up or growing family are 48 to 50sqm two-bedroom units and 96sqm four-bedroom units. ■

CREBA concludes two-day convention

L

ast October 7, the Chamber of Real Estate Builders Association (CREBA) concluded its 20th Annual National Convention with the theme “Tourists Today, Real Estate Investors Tomorrow” at the Marriot Hotel Newport Complex in Pasay City, according to reports.

The said two-day convention concentrated on gathering together the tourism and real estate sectors in coming up with a combined mechanism to help the Philippine economy. Tourism infrastructure was the focal point of discussion on the first day of the convention, while the second day focused on tourism incentives and packages.

Highlights of the convention were speeches delivered by Alexander Y. Romanenko, world president of International Real Estate Federation (FIABCI) in Paris and Jeff Hornberger, director for Global Real Estate Alliances of the National Association of Realtors. These are leaders of what is considered as the two of the world’s biggest international real estate bodies from the United States and Europe.

Romanenko, also said to be a founder and president of ADVECS Real Estate Corporation that operates in major Russian cities, spoke on “Global Partnerships for Multi-Cultural Tourism.” Hornberger, on the other hand, talked about “Promoting Tourism through Global Networking and Business Opportunities.”

Another highlight was a speech delivered by Vice President of the Philippines Jejomar Binay on October 6, quoted saying that “tourism and real estate are tightly intertwined,” a relationship that presents enormous opportunities in investments and employment. While the real estate industry might be there to support the national tourism development programs, he said that together they should create an “effective synergy between the real estate and tourism industries.” This will help them utilize the limitless chances ahead, most especially growing markets that are

said to create today’s tourists into tomorrow’s real investors.

Binay went on to say that boosting tourism further also would mean considering vital factors and challenges in the process, including quality of facilities, safety and security, availability of support services, and infrastructure capacity, accessibility and ease of transport, among many things.

Binay further said that once this is addressed, the nation can look forward to more permanent employment for Filipinos, most especially in communities that host these programs and projects. He also believed that such move will attract overseas Filipino workers to think about moving back to the Philippines to work, and for balikbayans to retire here as well, instead of abroad. Once the investors decide to retire in the Philippines, they surely will share our concern and eventually help in the improvement of the conditions of our community, he said. He also mentioned that the President and other governing agencies are continually planning measures and forging relationships with concerned entities to address issues and concerns that will help the tourism and real estate sectors.

Officials of government units such as HLURB, PRA, PagIBIG and NHMFC delivered speeches as well on shelter programs related to tourism.

According to research, CREBA, founded by Manuel M. Serrano in 1973, began as a union of business and trade associations engaged in real estate, housing, and construction industry.

Serrano is a real estate leader and advocate himself. Current national president of CREBA is Charlie A.V. Gorayeb. Present members include financial advisors; brokers; building contractors; home builders; suppliers of land development and construction, and developers of land, resorts, hotels, housing subdivisions, condominiums, industrial estates, and retirement facilities. ■

Bantay Bata – Caption: Mrs Tina Monzon-Palma with some of the members of the Filinvest International Team

Filinvest International supports Bantay Bata 163 Caravan

V

eteran broadcast journalist Tina Monzon-Palma spearheaded the recently concluded Bantay Bata 163 Caravan in Ireland and Italy.

Mrs. Monzon-Palma, program director of Bantay Bata 163, met with various Filipino community organizations and graced several fund raising events in Dublin, Padova, Venice and Milan. She also

took time to visit the International Headquarters of Filinvest International in Milan, Italy - an organization known to support the cause of OFWs through its OFWinner campaign.

Bantay Bata 163 is a social welfare program that aims to protect disadvantaged and at-risk children through a nationwide network of social services. ■

Azalea Place in Cebu City, a first for Robinsons Land

T

he Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC) recently introduced the Azalea Place, a 25-storey condominium venture under the Robinsons Residences, hence empowering its position in the Queen City of the South, Manila Bulletin said. Azalea Place is a milestone for RLC, as it is the first to be established within Cebu City.

Located along Gorordo Avenue, the project aims to offer

Cebuanos a wider collection of residential options, especially to those who love the highly urban and convenient lifestyle. The said project is said to include retail stalls on the ground floor, plus state-of-the-art amenities such as game room, spa, swimming pool, library or Wi-Fi lounge, Japanese-inspired gazebo, fitness center, and reading nooks.■

Vista Land pumps up investment in Sucat ucat has been visualized to of 12 mid-rise cluster buildings

S

be the ‘next central business district,’ thanks to its access to airport and other commercial establishments nearby, according to a recent report by the Manila Bulletin. No wonder why Vista Land and Lifescapes, Inc. decided to pump up P10 billion investment in the residential and commercial district called Presidio, located at the 60-hectare Vistaland Lakefront in Sucat, Paranaque.

Already established were 795 units from seven cluster buildings. To complete its plan

of 1,200 units, they have yet to build additional five residential condominium buildings, each ranging from 5- to 15-storeys with around 400 units.

Report said, among the amenities in Presidio are landscaped gardens, three swimming pools, two-level clubhouse, and a fitness and wellness center. It boasts of studio, one- or two-bedroom units, perfect for single professionals and startup families. Rates are said to start from P1.9 million to P6.3 million, depending on the unit. ■

HELLO PHILIPPINES

23

Boracay launches its own Santorini resort

L

ocated at the most popular tourist destination in the Philippines, the Santoriniinspired resort project called Boracay Newcoast had its soft launch recently, reports said. The luxury resort is said to be the brainchild of tycoon Andrew Tan under Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. (GERI).

Spanning 14 percent of the infamous island, the resort will showcase a hotel cluster, leisure center and Newcoast Station, boutique hotels, Shophouse district, Newcoast Village, ocean villas, wellness center, and transport terminal.

Tan hopes this new project will promote Boracay even more popular as a top tourist destination worldwide. ■

Living the Amaia way

T

he Amaia Land Corporation (ALC) recently launched Amaia Steps and Amaia Skies, residential projects that address the need for affordable housing yet not compromising function and quality of city living.

Standing on four hectares of land, the first Amaia Steps located in Novaliches boasts of twenty 5-storey residential structures and an amenity building, as well as 30sqm unit interiors, clubhouse, basketball court, and swimming pool, among others. It is said to be perfect for newlyweds, startup families, early nesters, and couples, The first Amaia Skies located in Cubao is said to be a high-rise condominium development that has been designed to suit the lifestyle and needs of single and independent professionals living in the metropolis. The 3-tower condo, built on one hectare of land has Studio, Bedroom and Garden units to choose from.

It offers elevators and soon to have recreational facilities and function rooms.

Target markets are individuals, couples, or families with monthly income of P20,000 to P60,000, with residential units as low as P1.1 million. According to a Manila Bulletin report, ALC is a project of Ayala Land that caters to the economic residential sector. ■

OFFICIAL APPOINTED AGENT FOR UK & IRELAND MANNING IMPEX LIMITED 2 Doman Road Camberley, Surrey GU15 3DF Tel: +44 (0) 1276 406 887/8 Fax:+44 (0) 1276 406 889 Email: sales@manningimpex.com www.manningimpex.com

26

HELLO PHILIPPINES

www.hello-philippines.com

Philippine Embassy/Philippine Department of Tourism

November / December 2011 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Monthly Issue â&#x20AC;˘ UK & Europe Edition

Republic of the Philippines

COMMISSION ON ELECTIONS

I would like to invite all Filipinos in the United Kingdom and British friends of the Philippines to come out and support the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; participation in the Lord Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Show on Saturday, 12 November 2011, from 10.00 AM to 2.30 PM. This will be the first time that the Philippines will participate in the 800-year old parade that presents the new Lord Mayor of London, and runs from Mansion House to the Royal Courts of Justice and back.

The Philippine Embassy and the Department of Tourism (London) are pleased to present the fruition of the collaboration with Filipino community organizations that has created a float showcasing the sights and sounds of our country to the British people.

Entitled â&#x20AC;&#x153;Colours of the Philippinesâ&#x20AC;?, the float was conceived by Filipino-British designer Rodrigo Enriquez, who also designed one of the 29 commemorative 50p coins for the London 2012 Olympics.

The float will feature popular Filipino-British celebrities, and will be escorted by the Lahing Kayumanggi dance troupe, Doce Pares fighting club, Philippine Generations and sectoral representatives of Filipino workers in the country.

For more details, please visit the Embassy on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ PhilippineEmbassyLondon and on Twitter at @PhilEmbLondon and #PinoyLordMayors I look forward to seeing you at this landmark event to cheer our float along the parade route and help promote the beauty and excellence of the Philippines.

Mabuhay!

COMMITTEE ON OVERSEAS ABSENTEE VOTING MANILA

NOTICE OF REGISTRATION AND ELECTION TO ALL FILIPINO CITIZENS

Notice is hereby given that under Republic Act No. 9189, otherwise known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Overseas Absentee Voting Act of 2003â&#x20AC;?, all citizens of the Philippines abroad, not otherwise disqualified by law, at least eighteen ( 18 ) years of age on the day of the election, and who are registered overseas absentee voters with approved application to vote in absentia, may vote for Senators and Party-List Representatives.

For this purpose, all qualified Filipinos citizens not registered as voters under Republic Act No. 8189, otherwise known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Voters Registration Act of 1996â&#x20AC;?, (the system of continuing registration) shall file an application for registration while those who are already registered under the said Act shall file an application for certification.

For purposes of the May 13, 2013 elections, the filing of applications for registration/certification and transfer of registration records shall be filed at the Post or other designated registration areas from October 31, 2011 to October 31, 2012.

The 30-day voting period will commence on April 13, 2013 until 3:00 oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;clock in the afternoon (Philippine time) of May 13, 2013 at Philippine Embassies or Consulates. (The time for voting to be announced later) For details, please contact Mr. Rosendo Rodriguez/Mrs. Edith Malilin at telephone numbers 02074 511816/02074511826/02074511803 or the following online/web sources: The Philippine Embassy, London (Official Facebook Page); @philemblondon (Official Twitter Account); www.philembassy-uk.org (Official website); and embassy@philemb.co.uk (for email queries).

Embassy of the Philippines, London, United Kingdom

ENRIQUE A. MANALO Ambassador

London, 1 November 2011

A Warm Welcome Ambassador Enrique A. Manalo President Aquino has appointed Enrique A. Manalo as Philippine Ambassador to the United Kingdom earlier this year.

The Philippine Embassy and the Filipino Community in the United Kingdom is now welcoming the new ambassador as he takes on his new post.

Ambassador Manalo held the post of Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Philippines to the Kingdom of Belgium, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Head of the Mission of the Philippines to the European Union. He is the first Philippine Ambassador to present credentials to the President of the European Council, a position created under the Lisbon Treaty.

Source: DFA

ADVISORY ON RENEWAL / CHANGE OF VISAS The Philippine Embassy in London wishes to advise all Filipinos intending to renew or change their entry/student/other visas to the same visa category or another visa category, as a result of changes in the Point Based System of managed migration adopted by the UK Government, to transact only with duly licensed immigration consultants and/or solicitors.

The Philippine Embassy has been in receipt of numerous complaints from Filipinos regarding their failed dealings with unlicensed immigration consultants and/or solicitors. While these complaints have been brought to the attention of local government authorities in the UK, our kababayans fail to obtain refund of the unconscionable fees often paid by them when they submit their documents to these unlicensed immigration consultants and/or solicitors.

It is suggested that all transactions be made at the offices of licensed immigration consultants and/or solicitors and, when necessary, ask them to produce their license to practice as immigration consultants and/or solicitors before making any payment. Refrain from transacting business in clinics, cafes, telephones or mobile phones, e-mail, and other venues where it is not possible to ascertain the legitimate status of the immigration consultancy practice being offered.

Embassy of the Philippines London, 23 August 2011 ADVISORY TO FILIPINO SENIOR CARE WORKERS The Embassy of the Philippines wishes to remind Filipino senior care workers that current British immigration guidelines require a minimum hourly wage of ÂŁ7.02 for migrant senior care workers.

Through efforts exerted by a multi-sectoral group, including the Embassy, the British Government accommodated our request in 2008 that the hourly wage rate of ÂŁ7.02 would not be applied to senior care workers who started working in the United Kingdom prior to 31 December 2003. This accommodation allowed these senior care workers to be eligible to apply for, and be granted with, an Indefinite Leave to Remain (ILR/Settlement visas) upon complying with the requirements of the British immigration regulations.

All migrant senior care workers arriving in the United Kingdom after 31 December 2003 are required to comply with the minimum hourly wage of ÂŁ7.02. When an application for an ILR is submitted by a migrant senior care worker, it is important that the supporting documents should show that he/she is receiving the required ÂŁ7.02 hourly rate. Those whose hourly wages fall below the minimum rate may find their ILR application deferred or denied.

In case of deferment or rejection, Filipino senior care workers are encouraged to contact a reputable immigration consultant or labor union who would be able to provide guidance on the process of requesting reconsideration of the denial.

Embassy of the Philippines London, 26 October 2011 OFWs started registering as OAVs for 2013 elections The overseas absentee voters (OAVs) registration for Filipinos worldwide has already started in many areas, such as United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Timor-Leste, and Guam last November 2 and will continue till October 31, 2012, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs. This is in preparation for the midterm elections in 2013. Reports said that they will continue the information campaigns worldwide to encourage more OFWs to vote and practice their rights. â&#x2013;

DFA-Overseas Absentee Voting Secretariat (Manila) www.dfa.gov.ph / ww.dfa-oavs.gov.ph Hotlines: +6328344361, +6328343275

COMELEC-COAV (Manila): www.comelec.gov.ph Hotlines: +6325222251, +6325212952, +6325239924

REGISTRATION PERIOD FOR OVERSEAS ABSENTEE VOTING

WHAT: Registration period for Overseas Absentee Voting for the 13 May 2013 Senatorial and Party List Representative elections â&#x20AC;˘ Applicants may file applications for registration/certification and transfer of registration records WHEN: 2 November 2011 until 31 October 2012, Mondays-Fridays, 9 AM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5PM (except during regular and declared holidays in the Philippines and the UK) WHERE: Philippine Embassy, London, 6-8 Suffolk Street, London SW1Y 4HG. â&#x20AC;˘ Field and mobile registration will also be held during consular outreach missions of the Embassy and at selected venues. Please await announcements.

WHO: Filipino citizens/dual citizens, not otherwise disqualified by law, at least eighteen (18) years of age on the day of the election (13 May 2013) and residing in the United Kingdom and in Greenland.

HOW: Applicants will personally appear at the Embassy and bring the original and photocopy of the following documents: 1. Valid Philippine passport 2. For Seafarers - Seamanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Book 3. For dual citizens without Philippine passports - Order of Approval or Certificate of Identity or Oath of Allegiance Application forms are available at the Embassy or may be downloaded from: www.comelec.gov.ph/oav/2013_natl_local/downloadables/reg_forms.html NOTE: Overseas absentee voters with approved application to vote in absentia, may vote for Senators and Party-List Representatives from 13 Apr 2013 to 13 May 2013.

For more information, please visit: www.comelec.gov.ph Or contact the Philippine Embassy in London: Telephone: +44 2074511780

Fax: +44 207930 8534

Email: embassy@philemb.co.uk

COMELEC conducted training on OAV in Milan, Italy An overseas absentee voting registration training by the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) was held in October at the Palazzo delle Stelline in Milan. Handled by Commissioners Rene Sarmiento and Armando Velasco, the training was said to be among the priority preparations of COMELEC for the coming computerized polls in 2013. Sarmiento said there is a need to persuade and motivate OFWs to participate in the election and in the nationsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; political process. The first two days of the training focused on lectures and theories. The last day was a hands-on training. It was attended by 53 participants from 26 European and one Middle Eastern Foreign Service posts. â&#x2013;

PDOT in its 12th year at the World Travel Market

W

orld Travel Market (WTM) is around the corner.

WTM is the biggest event in the Philippines Department of Tourism (PDOT) Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s calendar. Now on its 32nd year, it is the premier event where the travel industry establishes new partnerships, strengthens existing ones and seals business deals.

Last year, WTM generated a massive ÂŁ1,425 million in travel and tourism industry contracts.

The Philippines, now on its 12th consecutive year is once again strategically positioned in front of the Asia Pacific Hall. The booth is ideally designed to generate maximum brand exposure and capture maximum footfall from visitors

during the fourday event.

S p e c i a l feature at the stand is a mini-seminar workshop for interested travel agents to assist them in promoting and selling the Philippines. This will be held from 3pm-4pm on 9-10 November. Given the growing number of mainstream tour operators in the UK and in Europe featuring the Philippines in their packages, travel agents are encouraged to attend this event to expand their knowledge on the destination.

There will also be cultural performances by UK-based Lahing Kayumanggi dance troupe from 5-6pm on the 3rd and 4th day of the event. In

addition, the Philippines will hold a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mabuhayâ&#x20AC;? happy hour each day from 5-6pm at the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Kalesa Bar.â&#x20AC;?

Through these pavilion events, the Philippines seeks to attract greater volumes of travel industry policy-makers and tourism investors as well as promote activities such as diving, birdwatching, medical tourism, adventure, cultural tours and leisure holidays.

Visit the Philippines Stand located at Asia Pacific Region Number AS800. If you wish to set up meetings or register for the seminar-workshop, please contact the Philippines Department of Tourism at 146 Cromwell Road, London SW7 4EF, tel 020 7835 1100, fax 020 7835 1926 or infotourism@ wowphilippines.co.uk. â&#x2013;

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

www.hello-philippines.com

POEA sounds alarm on e-mail training and recruitment scams of another e-mail scam offering

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eware of illegal recruiters offering English language training and employment through e-mails!”

POEA Administrator Carlos S. Cao Jr. sounded this alarm recently amid reports from several workers who were offered employment in hospitals in the United Kingdom but were first required to attend a British English training or British accent coaching.

Cao said the e-mails target nurses and caregivers advising them that they were selected for nursing or caregiving positions in big hospitals and clinics in the UK, and that supposedly the employers are currently in the Philippines to conduct interviews.

Applicants are charged P3,000 for reservation of a slot in the supposed training and are instructed to send the payment through money transfer. The scammer cites in the e-mail a nonexisting address in Makati City as venue for the supposed training in British English.

Cao also warned applicants

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jobs in AAA Warehouse, one of the largest hotel and restaurant warehouse in Miami, USA. The supposed job is for a parttime “payment/fund receiving agent” that will receive payment from customers in the Philippines.

The “bogus” employer will then give instructions on how to remit the funds to any of their office locations or clients overseas.

The recruit will supposedly get his pay by deducting P25,000 from every payment received aside from a monthly salary of $3,000 (USD).

Upon verification by the Philippine Overseas Labor Office (POLO) in Washington, AAA Warehouse has denied the e-mail came from them confirming the offer as a scam.

Cao advised the public to be wary of these e-mail scams and urged them to call POEA hotlines 722-1144/7221155, or visit its website www. poea.gov.ph to check on the legitimacy of job offers found in the internet. ■

Government to restore P100m legal aid of OFWs

n a statement last October 21, House Assistant Majority Leader and Cebu Rep. Eduardo Gullas said that the Legal Assistance Fund of P100 million for overseas Filipino workers is being restored by the current government in the budget allocated to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The Philippine Daily Inquirer reported that the

LAF will serve as a support to OFWs getting into trouble, for their legal defense, and is supervised by the DFA’s Legal Assistant for Migrant Workers. Items to be charged to LAF include bail bonds for temporary release of detainees, professional fees of foreign lawyers representing the OFWs charged, and other expenses involved in court. ■

Pinoy caregivers protest against new UK immigration law

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ast October, Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in the United Kingdom convened with some British lawmakers for three hours at the House of Commons at Westminster in London to dispute the new immigration law, said to be prohibiting lowly paid migrant caregivers to settle in the UK after five years of work. Spearheaded by Kanlungan Alliance of Filipino Organizations, they conveyed their concerns to Members of Parliament regarding the new policy passed by the UK Border Agency.

The policy prevents workers

not earning the £7.02 pounds minimum hourly rate set for senior caregivers. OFWs considered it a discriminatory policy since migrant workers legally staying for five years in the UK and earning lower rates already secured their visas.

Some of the OFWs also explained to lawmakers their personal stories, struggles, and how the new immigration rules affect them and their loved ones, work, and community. So far, according to reports, the response of MPs was positive, but much work together is still needed to completely achieve their goal. ■

OFW News

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November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Ambassador Manalo requests freedom of hostaged Pinoy seafarers

mbassador Enrique Manalo, the new Philippine Permanent Representative to the International Maritime Organization (IMO), requested the release of Filipino seafarers still being held captive by pirates, according to a report by GMAnews.tv. The request was said to be the immediate action done by Manalo upon starting his term and presenting his Letter of Credence to IMO Secretary General Efthimios Mitropoulos on October 24 in London. According to the Philippine Embassy in

London, Mitropoulos promised to study the said concern.

For its bi-annual Assembly, the IMO is set to assemble on November 21 to 30 in London.

Reports said the Philippines is pursuing for a re-election to the IMO Council under Category C. Both officials promised “to work closely on issues of concern to both the Philippines and IMO,” the Philippine Embassy revealed.

In fact, recent reports said that at least eight more Filipino seafarers have been hostaged by Somalian pirates after seizing a

Conflict areas may contribute to human trafficking, illegal recruitment

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ccording to Susan Ople, president of the Blas F. Ople (BFO) Policy Center, conflict areas in Mindanao may contribute to the problem of human trafficking, resulting from the lack of economic opportunities and jobs. This is the reason why BFO advised the Aquino government to assist families, who have been displaced due to conflicts arising in the areas of Basilan and Zamboanga Sibugay, by giving them emergency employment and livelihood assistance.

Ople further said that such assistance will act as a preventive measure against more cases of illegal recruitment and human trafficking. She also expressed her disagreement over an all-out war policy in Mindanao, saying that there are syndicates that really just “profit from the pain and sufferings of others.” Instead BFO expressed their support to Senator Antonio Trillanes’ proposal for a Senate probe on the Basilan encounter. ■

Pinoy students felt duped by PH agency

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irsten Student Development Inc. is in the line of fire as Filipino students in Birmingham have come out in the open to complain against them.

Kirsten is a Philippine-based consultancy agency that gives advice to interested applicants on how to get a student visa in the United Kingdom, with the chance of being able to work at the same time.

Based on an ABS-CBN report, the students contacted the network’s Europe News Bureau and shared that they cashed out up to $7,000 to secure the service of Kirsten, who, in turn, will speak with UK colleges and assist students in processing their ad hoc requirements to get their student visas. Further, they said that Kirsten also promised to provide on-the-job-training with pay to them. The problem is, said jobs either didn’t arrive or arrived later than they had expected, so many had no money or job to support their UK education.

What’s worse is that one of the colleges they were enrolled in through Kirsten suddenly closed down, hence they were forced to pursue another college. Some

who failed to do so were deported back to the Philippines. Some failed to refund their tuition fees too. And to add salt to injury, the agency was indifferent to their concerns, even while they were in the UK left with no education and job.

Kirsten, however, denied such allegations, saying they didn’t promise any work to them nor fooled them. The agency also insisted that they didn’t say that the payment of $7,000 would include the students’ tuition fee in UK. Also, Kirtsen was firm that assistance to these Pinoy students in the UK is the responsibility of the UK college and trainer.

Suspicions that Kirsten and UK college conspired to clean up their mess were expressed by some of the students. But Wave Training, where these students were supposed to get a 3-year Level 3 National Certificate Care and Management Course, denied such allegations and instead explained that an agreement, outlining the obligations and responsibilities of each party, was signed by the students.

Wave has decided to stop dealing with Kirsten, upon receiving such complaints. ■

Taiwanese-flagged long-line fishing vessel on November 4 at two in the morning near Seychelles.

Said incident, according to the Taipei Times newspaper, has been reported already to the Piracy Reporting Center of the International Maritime Organization’s International Maritime Bureau in Kuala Lumpur.

Help has been requested as well from the UK Maritime Trade Organization. Meanwhile, the Taiwan foreign ministry has also requested some countries to help in rescuing the fishing vessel. ■

DFA partners with malls in passport services

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n its attempt to enhance the delivery of passport services and save over millions of possible government expenditures in the next 10 years, gathered reports said the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) plans to transfer its Regional Consular Offices (RCOs) to shopping malls in the country before the year ends, starting with first of its nine regional and extension offices— but only to leading mall operators covered by Private-Public Partnership arrangements.

The DFA is said to have entered already into the memorandums of agreement with Robinsons Land Corp and Pacific Mall Corp, for the initial six offices out of 20 DFA offices. For other mall developers, negotiations are ongoing. ■

HK turns down suspension bid on maid ruling

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key ruling in September this year allowed foreign maids to apply for residency status in Hong Kong (HK), but a government bid was presented to suspend said ruling.

Even so, the bid was rejected by the HK court. The bid was said to have been presented by the government in fear of igniting a flood of new applicants.

Reports said that foreigners with seven years of uninterrupted residency can apply to remain in HK, with access o voting rights and other benefits such as public housing and right to live in the city even without a work visa.

Nevertheless, foreign maids are still required to accomplish other criteria before completely gaining residency, such as proof that they plan to settle permanently in HK. ■

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HELLO PHILIPPINES

HP News

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November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

PCEC Statement on the October 2011 Basilan Clash

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(From l to r) Michael McCarthy, Consul General Bernadette Fernandez, Corazon Santos and Ambassador Enrique A. Manalo

Hello Philippines Courtesy Call with The Philippine Embassy

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orazon Santos and Roselle Collado, Directors of Universal Infinity Limited publisher of Hello Philippines newspaper and magazine and Michael McCarthy, Director of MShare Limited (a partner company of Universal Infinity Limited), had a courtesy call with Ambassador Enrique A. Manalo and Consul General Bernadette Fernandez on Tuesday, 25 October 2011 at The Philippine Embassy in London, United Kingdom. ■

Leila de Lima – A hard decision to make

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ecretary Leila de Lima is in hot water, as the request of Former President and currently Pampanga Representative Gloria Macapagal Arroyo to seek medical help abroad, for her spine and back problems, awaits her decision. She, in fact, admitted in past interviews that it is such “a hard decision to make.”

She also questioned changes made in the list of countries Arroyo plans to visit, which she further said have no extradition deals with the Philippines.

Even Malacañang refused to discuss about the said matter, until de Lima returns to the Philippines from an

engagement abroad, Presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda was quoted saying in a Gmanews.tv report.

But Presidential Political Adviser Ronaldo Llamas was said to have rejected the proposal of House Minority Leader Danilo Suarez to have faith in Arroyo’s promise to return to the country after treatment. Llamas frankly said that Arroyo’s ‘style of leadership is reason enough not to put trust on her promise.

Earlier, Arroyo was placed under the watch list of the government pending investigation of her alleged involvement in sabotaging the election. ■

UK firm opens new centre in Manila

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TRS Group Plc launched Thursday its new software development centre in Manila.

The British firm is the leading global provider of predictive, real-time monitoring and proactive application performance management products to the world’s financial community.

British Ambassador Stephen Lillie welcomed this development. “We are pleased to have been able to provide ITRS some advice and assistance in establishing their new software and technology facility in Manila. They have won awards for technical innovation, excellent service and international trade for export; this new facility is yet another achievement in the company’s international growth.”

The Philippines was the clear choice among the countries the company explored, which included Eastern European and other South East Asian countries. The country’s clear economic growth potential and talented English-speaking workforce make the Philippines a good base for growing in Asia, according to ITRS Chairman Stephen Bates and CEO Kevin Covington.

Meanwhile, UK Trade and Investment Director Derek Page revealed that other British firms are interested in the Philippines, particularly in the IT, power and

infrastructure sectors. “There is special interest in the public-private partnership projects. We will bring in two trade missions to link British companies with possible partners and locations in the Philippines. There is room for growth in the Philippines and with government reforms we trust there will be more interest,” Page said.

e grieve and condole from the depth of our hearts with the families and friends of those who were killed from both sides in Sitio Bakisung, Barangay Cambug, Municipality of Al Barka in Basilan last Tuesday, October 18, 2011. In a battle that went from 5:30am up to 4:00pm, about 31 government forces and 6 of the Bangsamoro Mujahideens lost their lives in a clash that could have been avoided.

We hear the rage of our people as they cry for justice. A few of our politicians are even calling for an all-out-war. We are also deeply saddened as some of our media personalities have drumbeated war escalation perhaps borne out of their passionate response to the bloody and gruesome graphic images they have captured.

However, this is the time when we need to heed the exhortation of James, the brother of Jesus Christ, when he said, “Know this, my beloved brothers: let every person be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger, for the anger of man does not produce the righteousness of God. (James 1:19-20 ESV). An all-out-war is not the answer to this crisis. We need to listen, find out the truth, implement justice and seek the peace of all and not just of some.

The Mindanao armed conflict, from the 1970s up to 2000, cost us 120,000 deaths and US$2-3 billion in direct economic losses. The 2000 all-out-war under President Estrada displaced 2

Source: British Embassy Manila, Philippines

ITRS launching. Foreground: UKTI Director Derek Page and ITRS Chairman Stephen Bates; Background: Ambassador Stephen Lillie and ITRS CEO Kevin Covington

Monitoring Team (IMT)—peacekeeping officers from the European Union, Malaysia, Canada, Japan, Brunei, and other respected countries—to conduct quickly an investigation on this clash and other ensuing armed resurgence.

We affirm the stance of MILF CCCH Chairman Said Shiek who keeps in continuous direct contact with his government counterpart to avert any further armed escalation. We call on those who profess to follow Jesus Christ, the Prince of Peace, to listen to these words: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.” (Mt. 5:9) “And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace.” (Js. 3:18) May God’s peace, blessings and wisdom be upon our government and military leaders, the MILF and all significant players on the ground as they navigate the nation through this crisis.

May God’s peace embrace our land, our people, and our culture—now, and in the years to come.

Bishop Efraim M. Tendero, D.D., D.L. National Director, Philippine Council of Evangelical Churches (PCEC) October 24, 2011 PCEC is the largest network of evangelical denominations, local churches and para-church organizations nationwide, with over 30,000 member churches. ■ Source: OPAPP

Baby Danica is seven billionth baby, says UN

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ith the global population growing every single minute, the symbolic seven billionth baby named Danica May Camacho, who’s name means “morning star” was born Sunday, 30 October 2011 just before midnight weighed 5.5lbs at the Dr. Jose Falabella Memorial Hospital in Manila. The United Nations recognized baby Danica’s presence by presenting a special cake to her.

Other claimants have sprouted from different countries as well.

But baby Danica is the lucky one after officially being recognized by the United Nations Population Division. ■

Proud father Florante Galura holds a cake marking the significance of his daughter’s birth

Senator Santiago filed Anti-Epal Bill enator Miriam Santiago filed Projects undergoing maintenance

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Further information

The new offices for ITRS (PHILS.) Inc, are located at: Jaka Building, Ayala Avenue, Makati City.

ITRS Group provides risk mitigation solutions to global financial institutions. It leads the way in a new discipline which extends real-time monitoring into a comprehensive operational and service management solution.

million people. It is not wise to go back to the old ways and lose the gains of the peace negotiations in the past 14 years.

We need to move on. All the forces on the ground, including our government and military leaders and the MILF are moving on to a new era of dealing with conflicts through peaceful means. We praise God for the principled-leadership of His Excellency Benigno Simeon Aquino III for upholding the primacy of the peace talks in the midst of calls for an all-out-war. We laud his standing order to the AFP to “Pursue peace, not Moro rebels.”

We salute Brig. Gen. Jose Mabanta, the Armed Forces Deputy Chief for Operations, as he resonates with the instruction of his Commander-In-Chief that there is no such a plan for an all-outwar, and that winning the peace is the top priority of our military.

We respect the position of Lt. Gen. Raymundo Ferrer of Western Mindanao Command (WestMinCom) who is strongly seeking justice for his soldiers within the existing peace mechanisms—like filing complaints before the Coordinating Committee on the Cessation of Hostilities (CCCH). Such intention is within the GPH doctrine on the primacy of the peace talks. This, in our opinion, is strategic thinking par excellence!

We also support the move of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) for requesting immediately the International

Pacquiao sells vegetables products

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oxing champ Manny Pacquiao is an endorser of vegetable products called “Pacquiao Produce” are now out in several US restaurants, reports said. Earlier, Philboxing. com reported he signed a deal with State Street Produce, which will be marketing the said product bearing the boxer’s name and under the theme of “Pacquiao Produce - Feeding our Future Champions.” Soon, the veggie products will be sold in US retail and grocery stores. ■

a Senate Bill banning all politicians from getting credit for projects that are actually created using public funds. The Senate Bill 1967 is fondly referred to as “antiepal” bill, but is officially titled “An Act Prohibiting Public Officers from Claiming Credit through Signage Announcing a Public Works Project.”

A jail term of six months to one year shall be imposed on a public official who would violate the said bill.

or rehabilitation are not spared as well, as the bill applies to it, too.

The said bill only permits signs bearing the image, name, or logo of the government agency—local or national—supervising the project.

Malacanang has, in fact, expressed their support for Santiago’s bill through a statement from deputy presidential spokesperson Abigal Valte, according to reports. ■

Stop nurse volunteer programs - Binay

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uring the 89th Foundation Anniversary and Annual Convention of Philippine Nurses Association last October in Cebu City, Vice President Jejomar Binay expressed his support to the Department of Health (DoH) to stop the “sordid practice” of volunteer programs for nurses. Earlier, DoH terminated all nurse volunteer programs in the entire DoH-retained hospitals as stated in the Memorandum 2011-0238, Manila Bulletin reported.

Binay went on to say that seeing honest, hard-working people who simply wanted a decent job are being exploited by crooked people. He called such act as “injustice that cannot be tolerated or permitted” in his speech in the said convention. He also called our nurses “some of the best ambassadors of our people” and “heroic supporters of our economy,” explaining further that people who were unfamiliar with the Philippines get to know about the nation because of positive examples brought about by such workers abroad. ■

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32

HELLO PHILIPPINES

www.hello-philippines.com

Business & Personal Finance

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Market volatility – where do you stand?

Markets can go up and down During the past six months or so, we have seen stockmarkets swing significantly, with the FTSE100 soaring as high as 6,103.7 (3rd May 2011) and falling as low as 4,791 (9th August 2011).

This represents a range of 1,312.7 points, or 21.5% of the high point, during the period.

It could lead some investors to wonder what is happening, and whether shares are a good basis for long-term investment.

The point is, of course, that investments should always be seen within the context of a pre - determined timeframe. If you are likely to require access to part of your capital within the space of a few months – or even a few years – then investing in assets that can be highly volatile or which have significant dealing costs is unlikely to make sense.

Part of your assets should be kept in an easily accessible format, which usually means cash deposits. This part of your

investment portfolio is unlikely to keep pace with inflation, but that is a price many are prepared to pay in order to have peace of mind.

Investing for the longer term In general, volatility over a short to medium period is not something that should be of great concern; provided you do not need access to your money immediately, there is time for its value to recover.

And, of course, the longer you hold investments, the less significant dealing costs associated with purchasing and selling assets become, compared with overall growth.

Assets such as shares (including collective investments like unit trusts) and property should be seen as longer-term investments.

What matters is not how much values may fluctuate over the short term, but how they perform over the

longer term. Looking at the FTSE100, the index is worth around twice as much (ignoring inflation), as it was twenty years ago; a not unrealistic timeframe for investments.

Low values can help Over the shorter term, lower values can actually be of assistance to investors. For example, with the FTSE100 standing about one-quarter lower now than it did at the start of 2000, investors today can purchase many more shares for their money than was the case almost twelve years ago. This means that the potential for gain, should share values return to their long-term trend, is far greater simply by virtue of the

current ‘undervaluation’.

Of course there are other factors that need to be taken into account, including dividend growth and the relative strengths of various market sectors, when making investment decisions, but that is the strength of seeking independent financial advice – we are always pleased to offer you our professional and individual support.

Markets can go up and down It is important to take professional advice before making any decision relating to your personal finances. This publication represents our understanding of law and HM Revenue and Customs practice as at the date of publication.

It does not provide individual tailored investment advice and is for guidance only. Some rules may vary in different parts of the UK, please ask for details.

We cannot assume legal liability for any errors or omissions it might contain. Levels and bases

of, and reliefs from taxation are those currently applying or proposed and are subject to change; their value depends on the individual circumstances of the investor.

The value of investments can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. The past is not a guide to future performance and past performance may not necessarily be repeated. If you withdraw from an investment in the early years, you may not get back the full amount you invested. Changes in the rates of exchange may have an adverse effect on the value or price of an investment in sterling terms if it is denominated in a foreign currency. ■ For further information contact: Ding Samson SAMSON Financial Consulting Ltd Independent Financial Advisers Mortgage and General Insurance Intermediaries ‘Seven Piers’ 163 Woodcote Valley Road Purley, Surrey CR8 3BN Tel: 0208 - 668 – 5545 Fax: 0208 - 763 – 8964 Email: info@samsonfinancial.co.uk Website: www.samsonfinancial.co.uk

SAMSON Financial Consulting Ltd is AUTHORISED AND REGULATED BY THE FINANCIAL SERVICES AUTHORITY ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Payment Protection Insurance (PPI) – May perang naghihintay sayo!

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ard times present opportunities.

May mahalaga tayong mapupulot sa current economic downturn: it pays to know how the financial world works. Kung alam natin how money flows through our system and how business decisions and monetary policies affect our daily lives—how to follow the money, ika nga—we will be more critical of government and corporate actions that impact the economy and business cycle at, higit sa lahat, we will be empowered to make better economic and money decisions that will enhance our lives.

Sa madaling salita, may pera sa kaalaman, sa pagkakaroon ng tinatawag nating “financial literacy.”

Malaking bahagi ng financial literacy sa kasalukuyan ay ang awareness that you can claim back your PPI or Payment Protection Insurance, and get much-needed spending money in these cashstrapped times, without affecting your credit rating or relationship with a bank. If you qualify, this is money legally and rightfully yours, at an average amount of …, maybe even more, depending on your case history.

A PPI is a type of insurance sold

to you by banks or other lenders to cover payments on your loan, credit card or mortgage if you get sick, meet an accident, or lose your job at hindi ka makabayad sa iyong utang. It is optional when you take out a loan, credit card or mortgage but is usually added on, either without your consent, or with your understanding that it was compulsory, or kung alam mo na optional, without your full knowledge of its cost or its applications.

Bukod sa hindi ito makatarungan kung dinagdag nang lingid sa iyong kaalaman, o dahil akala mo compulsory ang pagkuha nito, ang PPI ay maaaring hindi rin tama para sa iyo. If you are retireable, self-employed, unemployed or a student, you are not entitled to PPI coverage since PPI replaces an income, hence if you are not earning an income, a PPI is not for you. Marami rin itong exclusions na maaring hindi naipaliwanag nang kinuha mo ang policy. For instance, if you can’t work because of a bad back, wala kang makukuha sa PPI mo because back problems are excluded from coverage. Hindi rin kasama ang stress, chronic illnesses or existing

medical conditions na alam mo nang kinuha mo ang policy. Ang mga bagay na ito ay kailangang ipaliwanag sa iyo nang husto ng loan officer when you took out the policy.

So if you didn’t know a PPI was optional, you were forced to get one as part of your loan, credit card or mortgage, you were not qualified for a PPI in the first place, or the policy was not fully explained to you, you may have been missold a PPI by your lender and are therefore entitled to a refund, as ruled by the Financial Services Authority, which has investigated many consumer complaints about PPI and found out many policies were mis-sold.

As a consumer, you should get back what rightfully belongs to you.

Filing a claim for your PPI will not affect your credit rating or banking relations because the Court, in a ruling handed down April 20, 2011, has ordered banks to refund customers who may have been mis-sold PPI. In other words, it is your legal right to claim if qualified and banks are legally obligated to refund. It is the law. What’s more, since May 2011, the banks have given up their legal challenge to this ruling and have set aside

huge sums for refunds and are now actively processing claims.

It is estimated that banks need to pay back four billion pounds to around 2.5 million customers.

Each mis-sold customer, according to the FSA ruling, is entitled to get back all premiums paid plus 8% statutory interest. Malaki pong tulong ang halagang makukuha lalo na sa hirap ng panahon.

You can claim on loans, credit cards, car loans or mortgages that you have already paid or are still ongoing.

What’s more, you can claim as far back as 2000. It takes between eight to 12 weeks to claim a refund.

Alam po namin, however, that people may not have the time or the energy to go through the process of filing a claim with their banks, especially when daunted by the prospect of answering questions on their policies. Para sa ibang tao, lalo na sa mga Filipino, mahirap pag-usapan ang mga bagay na may kinalaman sa pera. This is where a service like Canary Claims comes in. We will file, pursue, and argue the claim for you, thereby relieving you of worries and demands on your time, as part of our campaign to improve financial literacy.

Canary Claims is regulated and licensed to operate by the Ministry of Justice under number CRM2233

We work on a No Win No Fee basis. We will not charge you anything if you are not able to make a claim. For each successful claim, we only ask a commission of 20 percent of the refund, plus VAT. What’s more, the refund will be handed to you directly and it will be your responsibility to give us our commission.

Canary Claims have successfully claimed hundreds of refunds, amounting to around £4M, a record we are truly proud of.

Kung may katanungan kayo tungkol sa bagay na ito o sa ano mang bagay na financial, sumulat lang po sa amin o di kaya’y tumawag at sisikapin naming mapaliwanagan kayo nang lubos.

We value our reputation as a reliable, trustworthy, efficient and active adviser on financial matters and, together, we can increase financial literacy and improve our lives. ■ For any inquiry please write to: Antonio Prieto 2 Boldmere Terrace,Katie Road, Selly Oak, Birmingham B29 6JQ Phone: 020 3514 8994 or 0121 471 3334 Mobile: 07832 221 004

34

HELLO PHILIPPINES

www.hello-philippines.com

Mortality Business Vittorio Hernandez

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here are two things permanent in this world – change and death. That is the reason why businesses associated with dying are considered winners despite the fear of many people to venture into such types of enterprises.

After all, people would need memorial park lots, crematorium vaults, funeral services, tombstone markers, flowers and candles when they finally leave this earth. However, since death is only once it is not everyday that regular people avail of the products and services offers by companies in the mortality business.

For middle- to large-scale companies engaged in memorial park development and maintenance, the demand for products and services is year-round, but achieves peaks during tragedies or calamities.

Thus, it is not surprising that large companies such as Loyola, Quiogue and Paz are considered good businesses because of the steady flow of clients.

Somewhere down the chain, small service providers such as tombstone makers, flower and candle vendors and graveyard maintenance are the ones who enjoy a peak of sales or income during the All Saints Day and All Souls Day holidays.

Flowers, for instance, triple in

prices during this time. Eloisa Saguit, a 38-year-old flower vendor with a small shop near the San Juan public cemetery, could make out a living with her small business enough to support her three children. Because of the harder times, Eloisa observed that people tend to buy the less expensive blooms that is why her bouquets range from P20 to P80 only.

“Mahirap magbenta ng mamahaling bulaklak ngayon dahil praktikal na din mga tao. Madalas kasi nanakaw lang sa puntod ang mga bulaklak kaya ayaw na nila bumili ng mahal na klase,” Eloisa reasoned out.

Outside the November holidays, Eloisa makes floral arrangements for processions and similar events that need blooms.

Like Eloisa, 45-year-old Rodolfo Abadegas of Cebu takes advantage of the Undas holiday to earn extra income. Abadegas disclosed that on an ordinary day, he earns about P200 from making tombstone markers which is sufficient to support his two children and wife. However, during All Saints and All Souls Day, his income is 10 times which helps his family pay debts, buy materials to make more lapidas the rest of the year and save some for Christmas.

His tombstone markers range in price from P1,500 to P15,000.

His wife, Linda, also earns extra income by selling candles near the Carreta cemetery in Cebu.

Business & Finance Down the chain, people who live in public cemeteries also earn a bit by offering to clean the niches of those interred. Cleaning services range from P30 for merely sweeping the area to P150 for repainting a tomb.

A profession picking up in demand for employment here and abroad is that of embalmers and morticians.

According to Renato Dychangco, president of the Philippine Mortuary Association, there are about 3,000 to 4,000 embalmers and morticians registered with the Department of Health.

Tombstone engraver

Demand for their services is going up in western countries with ageing populations.

Being employed as a mortician and embalmer is a steady career, although most Filipinos would still shudder at the thought of working on cadavers.

Since death is one of the sure things in life, a funeral parlour would always have business, and that equates to steady employment for morticians and embalmers.

To ensure that funeral parlours have enough supply of mortuary professionals, Dychangco set up the Translife Care, Inc. to provide

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition training. Dychango stresses that one way to remove the stigma of working in the mortuary business is to provide professional services all the time that is why he decided to open a training school which offers courses on embalming, restorative arts, funeral directing and running a funeral business.

The training includes reconstruction for corpses that are victims of tragedy or accidents. Reconstruction procedures include using tissue fillers, gluing or stitching body parts on damaged faces or broken body parts. Embalmers and morticians who specialize in reconstruction for corpses are also known as plastic surgeons of the dead.

Training period varies depending on the trainability and skill of the applicant. It could be for as short as 20 days. For beauticians engaged in the business, they could make the shift from making women beautiful in salons to making corpses look alive as morticians, but they still would need some amount of training.

“When people see the remains of a person that is often the lasting memory they will have of that person.

Therefore it is important that the corpse should look good and as much as possible as if the corpse looks alive, only sleeping,” Dychangco explains.

To help achieve that look, funeral parlours use different type of cosmetics from the standard makeup used by beauty parlours. They use oil-based cosmetics imported from abroad to help keep the “glow” on the corpse, whose blood circulation has

stopped, and help keep the skin look fresh for several days of wake.

Some funeral parlours ask for photos of the deceased when the person was still alive to help them achieve the “look” which will not only please the living family members, but help create the last impression that person will leave in the mortal world.

Another booming mortality business that benefits from technology is the eburol services offered by large Philippine funeral parlours such as St. Peter’s in Quezon City. The funeral parlours include in their package of services video coverage of the entire proceedings from the wake all the way to the burial.

Besides providing family members a remembrance of the event, the funeral parlour also makes available the video to live streaming to benefit relatives and friends of the deceased who are living abroad and could not return to the Philippines to console with the bereaved family.

Thus, instead of the OFWs who have a dead relative in the Philippines coming home and incurring huge expenses, live streaming would provide an alternative to the migrant worker to grieve and witness the proceedings without the need to fly home.

It could also work the other way around if an OFW dies abroad. Instead of shipping the corpse, which could cost up to P500,000, the relatives in the Philippines could view the wake and burial via live streaming if funeral parlour operators abroad have similar eburol services like St. Peter’s. ■

down on the celebration aspect by banning loud music, alcohol and playing cards during the November 1 and 2 holidays and encouraging visitors to instead use the time to pray for their dead friends and relatives.

On the fourth Thursday of November, the U.S. celebrates Thanksgiving Day, which is characterized by cooking Roast Turkey. Thanksgiving is actually to celebrate the bountiful harvest.

Similar to Halloween, Thanksgiving is observed in the Philippines mostly in urban areas only, primarily in hotels and fine dining restaurants that offer turkey dishes.

Some supermarkets have recently tried to cash in on the Thanksgiving holiday by selling turkey meat.

Pinoys actually have their own version of the thanksgiving often in May which is considered the fiesta month and represents harvest time.

The Philippines being a festive nation, Thanksgiving is not just day for Filipinos but a whole month of festive community celebrations often timed with the feast day of Catholic saints in their respective parishes.

Thus, for Pinoys, the last week of November is actually preChristmas celebrations period already, although it is mostly a preparatory stage devoted to shopping for gifts and planning year-end parties. ■

November holidays Vittorio Hernandez

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any students and employees like the month of November.

Besides being close to Christmas, November has two major holidays celebrated by many nations. These are Halloween and Thanksgiving.

Although these two holidays are western in origin, more Filipinos are beginning to observe these two events as well.

Commercial establishments and media have especially played up Halloween because of its income potential. Department stores, for instance, make sure scary objects or symbols of Halloween such as the jack-olantern, witch, zombie and other similar fearful items are displayed prominently on their windows to ensure good sales from these items.

To bring more shoppers in, mall owners also organise Halloween parties and award best costume prizes to contest participants.

Some offices and organizations too also hold Halloween parties.

Television and movie industries capitalise on Halloween by featuring horror movies and Halloween specials.

Upscale villages such as the Magallanes Village in Makati are known for holding contests for the scariest frontyard display and opening their village gates to kids from nearby poorer communities for the annual trick-or-treat rounds in which children get to enjoy free candies and sweets from the homeowners.

Here in the Philippines, it is mostly the treat part with homeowners offering candies as giveaways and the kids don’t have to do the trick part. However, in some middle class villages in Quezon City, children do the trick part by scaring people walking on the streets with their ghoulish costumes.

However, outside urban regions, it is not so much October 31 or Halloween that Pinoys observe, but All Saints Day which falls on November 1. Although the honouring of the dead should really be held on All Souls’ Day on November 2, Filipinos have

Halloween symbols such as ghoullish masks and cobwebs are quite common in urban areas in the Philippines, but Thanksgiving symbols such as the Roast Turkey are quite rare.

long been visiting the cemeteries on All Saints Day despite efforts by the Catholic Church to remind the faithful that they should observe All Souls’ Day if honouring dead loved ones is their intention.

Since the occasion coincides with the semestral break of many universities, the first two days of November holidays are used by many Filipinos to go home to the provinces and hold a reunion at cemeteries. However, cemetery operators as well as local governments have been toning

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Spotlight

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November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Filipino Achievers from Around the World

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OFW wins UN Citizen Ambassadors Video Contest

n the recent 2011 Citizen Ambassadors Video Contest by the United Nations, for this year’s observance of the World Humanitarian Day, 22-year-old Jonathan Eric Defante, an OFW in Dubai, made the Philippines proud by coveting the title as one of the three Honorary Citizen Ambassadors of United Nations for 2011. His 30-second video pitch entitled “One bottle, one life” is about utilizing or recycling plastic bottles to put up model communities worldwide.

It competed against 600 other video entries from 50 nations.

Each contestant was given only 30 seconds to suggest their world-changing ideas to UN Secretary General Ban KiMoon. Other winners include Guatemalan Sergio Mario Valdez , 19, and SudaneseAmerican Sigin Rënwa Ojulu, 20. They will go to New York in December, to pay UN Headquarters a visit and meet with UN Secretary General, as well.

Defante currently works as a sales associate in Dubai, and will serve as a UN Citizen Ambassador for two years. ■

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Pinoy hairstylist bags award at L’Oreal competition

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he recent L’Oreal Color Trophy 2011 competition, held in the Netherlands, awarded Filipino hairstylist Jitty dela Cruz the Public Award, as chosen by online voters at L’Oreal website and by readers of Dutch magazine Grazia, reports said.

Dela Cruz is grateful for being recognized for his creativity and the opportunity to display talents

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of Filipino hairstylist, despite not bagging the main award. Referred to as the Oscars for hairstylists, L’Oreal Color Trophy is said to be the longest-running hair dressing award worldwide.

Dela Cruz is now among Amsterdam’s most soughtafter hair colorists. He said that he’s hoping to inspire Filipinos worldwide. ■

Pinoy singing talent on ‘Cover Me Canada’

nother Filipino talent is trying his luck on Canadian shores.

He is Warren Dean Flandez, who is competing in “Cover Me Canada,” a singing contest that gives a treat of Canadian music to television viewers. In the said competition, contestants reinterpret songs of popular Canadian artists.

Flandez, born and raised in Yellowknife, Canada, is an R&B artist. But according to reports, he amazed his audience with his own

Fil-Am awardee says ‘We have to give back’

version of “Sweet City Woman,” a classic originally done by the Stampeders, and described to be outside his genre.

Flandez hopes to make it through the 9th and final week and to get online votes to keep him in the competition. The ‘Cover Me Canada’ winner will receive a $100,000 Canadian prize.

Log on to http://www.hellophilippines.com/ to find out how to vote for Flandez. ■

or her big contribution during the presidential campaign of Senator Hillary Clinton in 2008, Loida Nicolas Lewis, a FilAm community leader, was given the “Trailblazer of Democracy Award” by The Eleanor Roosevelt Legacy, according to a report from the ABS-CBN news. The legacy’s goal is to create a new generation of pro-choice democratic women candidates, political activists, and informed voters in New York.

Lewis has been described by Senator Schumer as among the country’s leading Filipino women.

She was, in fact, the very first Asian to pass the New York Bar despite not having attended law school in the US. She also assumed the leadership as Chair and CEO of TLC Beatrice, a company established by her late husband Raginald F. Lewis and brought it to greater heights. In 1994, Working Woman Magazine ranked her as No. 1 in the “Top 50 Women Business Owners in America.”

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She also became the General Attorney of the US Immigration and Neutralization Service, and coauthor of the bestseller “How to Get a Greencard.”

In the Philippines, Lewis established the Lewis College in Sorsogon, Bicol, which is her hometown. She also helped uplift around 20,000 families out of poverty by funding the microfinance “People’s Alternative Livelihood of Sorsogon.” She continues to focus her time and energy on several issues and advocacies involving the Filipino community today. ■

Pinoy indie films reach Brussels

ilipino independent films continue to prove its relevance and depth, garnering prestigious awards here and abroad.

Such is the case for two Pinoy films, “Deadline: The Reign of Impunity” and “Busong,” which have been chosen as Philippines’ entries to the 38th Brussels International Independent Film Festival, which ran from November 1 to 6.

“Deadline: The Reign of Impunity” was written by Bonifacio Ilagan and directed by Joel Lamangan; presents the struggles of a group of journalists who are out to reveal the truth about a governor and warlord in Mindanao. This film was, in fact, inspired by the Maguindanao Massacre in 2009, reports said. It stars popular actors and actresses, such as Tirso Cruz III, Lovi Poe, TJ

Trinidad, Luis Alandy, Ina Feleo, and Allen Dizon.

Directed by Aureaus Solito, “Busong” is said to discuss about the concept of fate or karma, and about the three major problems in Palawan which are mining, dynamite fishing, and illegal logging. Alessandra de Rossi stars in the said movie.

Over 80 films worldwide participated in the said film festival. ■

A Filipino nurse bags Nurse of the Year Award

local of Calapan City, Oriental Mindoro, 38-yearold Teodoro “Junjun” Medran Jr. received the Nurse of the Year award in the 2011 Star Awards of the Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals (BSUH), besting over 60 other nominees, of which were mostly British. The Star Awards is only on its second year, with a Briton bagging the first award last year.

Gathered reports said, Medran worked for six years at the Lung Center of the Philippines and for two years at the Philippine Heart

Center before moving to the United Kingdom in 1999. He first served as a healthcare assistant at BSUH. Then he became a clinical site manager for the same hospital after thirteen years. He is married to a nurse, who also works at the same hospital, and blessed with three children.

He revealed learning the value of empathy towards others from his father. He has always been known for singing to his patients and attending to them beyond his nursing responsibilities—like a haircut, perhaps—to make his

patients look and feel good. Not spared of its own challenges in life, he said it was his strong faith in God that made him get through adversities in life.

Being the first Filipino to have received such prestigious award, Medran noted that his award was proof that the hard work, dedication, and professionalism of Filipino workers are finally being recognized. His parents failed to attend the event, but expressed their gratefulness and pride for their son’s achievement. ■

JunJun Medran receiving the nurse of the year award

Photo by ABS-CBN Europe News Bereau

JunJun with collegues and a patient at Brighton and Sussex University Hospitals

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Celebrity, Showbiz & Entertainment

YouTube sensation Mikey Bustos to launch music career in PH

Sarah Geronimo and Gerald Anderson, closer than ever in their second movie

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fter the success of Catch Me I’m In Love, Gerald Anderson and Sarah Geronimo revive their kilig team-up in Won’t Last A Day Without You, which opens in cinemas on November 23.

In the story, Sarah plays a disc jockey who’s afraid to fall in love and get hurt again. “Ako dito si DJ Heidi. Hindi siya tipikal na role na ginagawa ko na hindi pa nakaexperience ng first love. Kumbaga may experience na yung character ko dito. Ayoko yung mga ugali ng lalaki na babaero. Parang in a way naging man-hater ng konti.”

Gerald further shares that his role is quite the ladies’ man, which would initially turn Sarah off. “Ako dito si Andrew. Down-to-earth na happy-go-lucky kind of guy. Dapat abangan kung paano magka-clash yung dalawa at kung paano kami

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est known for his hilarious Pinoy tutorials on YouTube, FilCanadian artist Mikey Bustos went on a nine-day trip to Manila as he was chosen to be an endorser of a famous Filipino snack brand. “I really feel like God set all this up for me because they already came up with a campaign when they contacted me [via email],” he said in a press conference last October 25. “It really resonated to me because it’s very Pinoy and I felt that it would be a good match.”

The former Canadian Idol finalist also saw it as an opportunity to showcase his passion for singing as he performed a few cover songs as well as his parody of Lady Gaga’s Born This Way called Pinoy This Way. He’s slated to release an OPM album by 2012. Although he refused to give any details just yet, Mikey mentioned Gary Valenciano’s management, Genesis Entertainment, “who went out of their way to put together a CD

for me of some of Gary Valenciano’s classics, the instrumentals of them because I will cover them soon.”

Asked if he’s willing to relocate in the Philippines for the sake of a musical career, Mikey answered that he’s open to all possibilities. “My main dream has always been to affect people worldwide through my art— whether in singing, acting, comedy or even spreading Pinoyhood like in my endorsement. So I’ll relocate to wherever there’s an opportunity for me to do that.” ■

AJ Perez nominated at the Golden Screen Awards for TV

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he late teen actor AJ Perez made it to the list of nominees under the category “Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Single Drama or Telemovie

Program” for his portrayal in the Maalaala Mo Kaya episode entitled “Tsinelas”.

It was aired two weeks after the 18-year-old was killed in a highway accident in Tarlac en route to Manila from a show in Dagupan on April 17.

Despite AJ’s untimely death, his father Gerry Perez was happy to hear about his son’s accomplishment. “I’m so proud of him. Dream talaga ni AJ na magkaroon ng acting award.”

Other nominees include Enchong Dee, Coco Martin, Alwyn Uytingco and Phillip Salvador.

The awarding ceremony will be held on November 29 at the Teatrino in Greenhills, San Juan City. ■

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

mai-in love sa movie.”

Although Sarah’s not too keen on falling in love with Gerald for real, she admits that she’s attracted to Gerald’s good looks. “Nagwaguwapuhan ako kay Gerald. Kung magka-developan kami in the end? Hindi naman natin madidikta ‘yon. Sabi nga niya, Huwag nating ipilit. If it’s bound to happen, it will happen.”

Gerald also reveals that they’ve gotten to know each other better this time around. “Mas malalalim na yung mga pinag-uusapan namin. Hindi tulad nung first movie namin. Marami na akong alam sa kanya at ganon din siya sa akin.”

Aside from the movie, Gerald is happy about the success of his advocacy serye, Budoy. His role as a teenager who’s suffering from Angel Syndrome has instantly

Lea Salonga hailed as Outstanding Filipino-American in New York

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nternational Broadway star Lea Salonga brings pride and honour to the Philippines as she was recognized as one of The Outstanding Filipino-Americans in New York (TOFA-NY) Heritage Awards last October 29. “I am happy to be in this community…

I’m glad to be here and thankful to everyone—mom, friends, community,” said Lea who’s touted as the most celebrated Filipino talent in Broadway due to her noteworthy performances in Miss Saigon, Les Miserables and Flower Drum Song.

Held at the Carniege Hall’s Weill Hall in New York City, the prestigious award-giving body gives recognition to individuals and organizations that have raised the profile of the FilipinoAmerican community in a unique and positive way. It was founded just this year as part of the annual celebration of Filipino-

American History Month which falls on October.

Other recipients of the TOFANY included Pulitzer award-wining journalist Jose Antonio Vargas, Film and Music entrepreneur Bessie Badilla, and ABS-CBN correspondent for North America Bureau Don Tagala. The winners were selected via online voting in Facebook.

Shamcey emphasizes respect for people’s preferences

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inishing the Miss Universe pageant, held at Sao Paulo, Brazil on September 12, as 3rd Runner-Up, Shamcey Supsup said she did her best for her countrymen. “But it was for the Philippines that I did it,” she disclosed in a TV interview at The Buzz.

When asked what she thinks of actress and singer Lea Salonga, the sole Filipina judge in the pageant, voting for Miss Angola as first choice and her as mere second, Supsup said she

believes in respecting people’s preferences and that she will never question Salonga’s decision.

Another issue that’s been thrown her way was her answer to the question, “Would you change your religious beliefs to marry the man you love?” She said she would answer the same thing – and that is, she won’t change and that she expects the man to do so. She, however, followed it up now by clarifying that the term in question was

captivated the hearts of many Filipino viewers. Thanks to director Ruel Bayani, it has truly made him a certified actor. “Siyempre siya ang mentor ko mula Tayong Dalawa. Ang dami niyang naituro sa akin pagdating sa acting techniques. Binabantayan niya bawat kilos at mannerisms ko dito sa soap. Nagpapasalamat ako sa pag-aalaga niya at sa pagbantay niya sa career ko.” ■

actually “religious belief” and not “religion” per se.

Amidst these controversies she’s faced with, Supsup has proven that she’s not only beautiful, smart and sexy – but she’s also the woman who launched the “Tsunami Walk”.

She revealed in a couple of TV appearances that the term “tsunami” came from a Spanish friend who couldn’t speak English. But she clarified that the extraordinary move was already a combination of all the trainings

she went through in the past.

Coming from a woman who graduated a magna cum laude at the University of the Philippines in Diliman, Quezon City, Supsup believes in having discipline and determination in order to be successful and that one has to “set goals and set them high”. She is also an architect by profession.

You can watch Shamcey Supsup’s trademark catwalk called “Tsunami Walk” on www.hello-philippines.com. ■

In his message to the awardees, New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg expressed his gratitude to their exemplary contribution to the community through their respective field of careers. “New York has always been proud to be a city of promise and opportunity for people of every background, including generations of Filipino-Americans. We take this opportunity to honour the men and women who contribute to the city’s energy and spirit.”

Incidentally, Lea was also named as the first Filipino recipient of the Disney Legends Awards for her extraordinary contribution to the Walt Disney company. She was the singing voice behind two Disney princesses: Jasmine in Aladdin (1992), and Fa Mulan in Mulan (1998) and Mulan II (2004).

The awarding ceremony was held at the Anaheim Convention Center in California last August 19. ■

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61st Miss World 2011 - Sunday, 6 November 2011 - Earls Court Two, London, United Kingdom PHOTOS BY: LEO SUNPONGCO AND PHILIP DE VERA

Leo Sunpongco (Left Side) at the Miss World 2011 Pageant

61st Miss World 2011 - Sunday, 6 November 2011 - Earls Court Two in London

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Celebrity, Showbiz & Entertainment

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Robin Padilla and Vhong Navarro top-bill ‘Praybeyt Benjamin’ earns new sitcom, ‘Todo Max’ P200 million in 8 days

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et ready to experience loads of laughter as action star Robin Padilla and comedian Vhong Navarro joined forces in ABS-CBN’s weekly sitcom, Todo Max, starting November 5. “Ito ay isa sa mga katapuran ng mga napagusapan namin ng ABS-CBN [na gagawin kong projects] at makakasama ko si Vhong. Ito rin ang pagbabalik ng komedya sa ABS-CBN, isang sitcom na may kaakibat na aral at katatawanan,” said Robin.

The dashing 41-year-old is happy with his team-up with Vhong as they have previously worked together in the now-defunct TV show Pwedeng Pwede. “Sa akin din naman nagumpisa si Vhong (as his

sidekick) sa Pwedeng Pwede.

Nabantayan ko ang kanyang pagsikat. Sana parte pa ako ng pagmayani ng kanyang kasikatan.”

A self-confessed fan of Robin,

Ruffa Gutierrez

John Lloyd and Shaina Magdayao

John Lloyd-Shaina-Ruffa love triangle, sparked anew

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midst John Lloyd Cruz and Shaina Magdayao’s troubled relationship, tension between the couple and Ruffa Gutierrez was sparked anew when they crossed paths during Bea Alonzo’s birthday bash (October 8) and Vina Morales’s birthday concert (October 18). It was during the latter event that Ruffa supposedly received a text message from Shaina using John Lloyd’s phone.

But contrary to Ruffa’s prior tweets that Shaina has been texting her “psychotic messages” at “ungodly hours”, the young actress claimed that it was the former beauty queen who texted John Lloyd first. “Yes, it’s true na nag-text siya kay John Lloyd.

Right after we left the party and I replied. I just replied,” said Shaina in The Buzz’s October 29 episode.

Shaina to Ruffa: “Leave us alone” Shaina revealed that her intention was to make things clear between her and Ruffa since this is not the first time the latter tried to keep in touch with John Lloyd. “I told her to leave us alone gaya ng gusto kong sabihin sa kanya the

Vhong on the other hand feels honoured to be reunited with his idol in this project. “Idol ko po talaga siya sa lahat ng mga bagay.

Sa pagpapatawa, sa action, at siyempre, habulin noon... ngayon, hindi na. Nagbagong buhay na. At sa pagbabalik po niya sa Kapamilya, ang sinabi po niyang pangalan na gusto niyang makasama ay ako po, kaya maraming salamat po.”

Vhong also revealed that he and Robin might be doing a movie as well. “Si Tita Malou (Santos, head of Star Cinema), nagpi-present po sila ng bagong project para sa akin at meron din pong project para sa amin ni Idol (referring to Robin’s epithet in showbiz circles). Sana po ay maging maganda ang resulta at matuloy po.” ■

first time I called her. This time I want to be straightforward na para bang respetuhin naman niya kami kasi we all know what happened before—the cellphone incident,” referring to her phone call to Ruffa January of this year.

As John Lloyd’s girlfriend, Shaina was disappointed that Ruffa did not follow through their agreement.

“After that incident, she said that she was going to stay away. She said that she was not going to bother us anymore. But right after we left (during Vina’s birthday party), naka-receive ng text niya so parang it was so clear na hindi siya tumutupad sa sarili niyang salita.”

Shaina also defended herself from Ruffa’s controversial tweets about her being “insecure”.

“Marami nga po ang nagsasabi sa akin na ako nga ‘yung pinaparinggan niya. But I’m confident that I’m not insecure. Hindi ako insecure sa kanya. So I refuse to believe na ako ‘yung pinaparinggan niya. Klarongklaro naman siguro especially after this interview kung ano siguro ang gusto kong iparating sa kanya.

Ngayon kung di pa rin niya maaccept ‘yon, I’ll leave her alone.”

No third party In the same interview, John Lloyd admitted that his relationship with Shaina is going through a rough patch.

“Andun kami sa estado na, inaacknowledge na namin na meron kaming pinagdadaanan, meron kaming hinaharap na medyo mahirap and pareho kami na nag-agree na alam namin pareho kung ano ‘yung dapat at kailangan naming gawin.” Asked if he would fight for their love, he meaningfully added, “Yung ano muna sarili, kung hindi mo mahal ang sarili mo, parang mahirap magmahal.”

But for the record, John Lloyd maintained that neither Ruffa nor any of his ex-girlfriends is the reason behind his troubled relationship with Shaina. “Wala sa kalingkingan ng sino’ng babae ang totoong dahilan ng pinagdadaanan namin ngayon.

Hindi ‘yung persepsyon ng tao ang dahilan. Ako po ang magsasabi mali po kayo kung sino o ano ‘yung totoong dahilan.

Sarili namin, masyadong malalim, masyadong personal.

Huwag po kayong malito. Kung ano po ang sinabing kuwento ni Shaina, iba po ‘yon.” ■

V

ice Ganda was ecstatic with the box office success of his movie Praybeyt Benjamin, which already reached its P200million mark in gross sales, according to SM Cinema, one of the country’s biggest cinema operators. It is expected to surpass the P220-million worth of tickets sales of No Other Woman, currently the highest-grossing Filipino movie of all time.

As it is, Vice Ganda previously claimed that his movie would surpass his expectations in terms of ticket sales. “I’m praying, umaasa ako na bibiyayaan ako ng Diyos. Ayoko sabihing P250 million, malay mo maging P280 million. Huwag natin lagyan ng limitasyon. Kung P250 million ang kinita ng movie ni Anne (Curtis, star of No Other Woman), ako P25 million...per day,” Vice joking exclaimed in his solo press con last October 18.

True enough, Praybeyt Benjamin reportedly earned P50 million on the film’s first 2 days of showing.

“In-expect ko po talaga maghi-hit kasi maganda

ang material, pero hindi ganito kalala. Sumobra sa expectations ko, OA ang hit talaga.” He went on to thank all those who supported his movie. “Maraming maraming salamat po sa lahat ng hindi nagpakabog sa pila ng ‘Unkabogable Praybeyt Benjamin.’ Bonggang bongga, blockbuster hit.”

Directed by Wenn Deramas, Praybeyt Benjamin tells the story of a gay man who is forced to join the military in order to save his grandfather who, in turn, was abducted by terrorists.

Joining the cast are Eddie Garcia, Jimmy Santos, Derek Ramsay, Nikki Valdez, Kean Cipriano, DJ Durano, Vandolph Quizon, Carlos Agassi and Dennis Padilla. ■

Thai heartthrob Mario Maurer to star in a film opposite Erich Gonzales

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t’s confirmed: Thai heartthrob Mario Maurer pairs up with Kapamilya star Erich Gonzales in a film under Star Cinema.

The star of the hit Thai film Crazy Little Thing Called Love sealed the deal as he signed a contract with ABS-CBN during his five-day visit in Manila late October.

“I’m going to have my first movie in the Philippines. We’re going to shoot next year. The shooting of this movie is going to be done half in Thailand and the

other half in the Philippines,” he told ABS-CBN reporters after his contract signing last October 26.

Mario had the chance to have dinner with Erich on his second day in Manila. He heard a lot of good things about the young actress from his best friend, which made it easier for them to establish rapport on their first meeting “I know her because she came to work in Thailand (for a commercial shoot) and my friend got to meet her. And we heard that she’s going to be working with me in a movie. My friend says she’s very nice and a very funny girl. [And now that I’ve met her], I think she’s a fun and playful girl” added Mario whose best friend happens to be a Filipino.

Tentatively titled Suddenly It’s Magic, the film’s premise is about a Thai celebrity who suffers from heartbreak due to his cheating girlfriend. In a bid to forget her, he flees to the Philippines where he meets a local beauty who will teach him to fall in love again. ■

42

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Celebrity, Showbiz & Entertainment

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

Richard-Dawn tandem is back via ABS-CBN’s Walang Hanggan

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Maasinhon Trio wins Pilipinas Got Talent Season 3

he Maasinhon Trio’s rendition of Basil Valdez’s classic OPM hit “Nais Ko” was pronounced as the best act during the season finale of Pilipinas Got Talent held at the Ynares Sports Center last October 22.

The Visayan singing group garnered 22.59 percent of the total text and online votes followed by teen heartthrob Khalil Ramos with 18.64 percent and the Bringas Brothers with 14.03 percent.

Even the judges were wowed by

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their flawless blending and harmony when they sang Kay Ganda Ng Ating Musika and Bituing Walang Ningning as early as the audition week and the semi-finals, respectively.

Comprised by Licinio Lolo (43), Bonifacio Salumbre (38), and Andrew Sanchez (43), the Maasinhon Trio is named after Maasin, the group’s hometown in Leyte. “We are very happy. We just proved that talent doesn’t come with age,” said Andrew right after their win.

Although some people were

dissatisfied with the PGT results, the trio refused to be affected by others’ criticisms. “Sa mga bumabatikos, wala kaming hinanakit sa inyo dahil opinyon ni’yo iyan. Nirerespeto namin ang opinyon ni’yo. Ang challenge sa aming tatlo, ipapakita namin kung ano ang mayroon kami.”

The Maasinhon trio took home a two-million-peso cash prize, a part of which they plan to donate in their chosen church and the rest among themselves. ■

ormer reel and real-life sweethearts Richard Gomez and Dawn Zulueta are thrilled to be working together again in the TV adaptation of their ‘90s hit movie Hihintaying Kita Sa Langit. “Nung kwinento nila itong project na ito, tapos sinabi sa akin na kasama si Dawn, hindi talaga ako nagdalawang isip,” said Richard about his comeback project in ABS-CBN. Richard added that his wife Lucy Torres has no problem about him being paired with an ex-flame. “Lucy is a big fan of Richard and Dawn. She watched Hihintayin Kita Sa Langit more than 20 times. So when she found out about this project, she was so happy that she texted Dawn right away.

Sabi niya, ‘Oh my God, you and Goma are having a project together!’ Mas una pang nagtext si Lucy kay Dawn kaysa ako nag-text kay Dawn.”

Two siblings face charges for Ramgen Revilla’s murder

spiring actor-politician Ramgen Revilla (a.k.a.

Ramgen Jose Bautista), Senator Bong Revilla’s halfbrother, was stabbed and shot dead in his house in BF Homes, Paranaque last October 28. It was his wounded girlfriend Janelle Manahan who called the cops, claiming that two armed men entered the two-storey house shortly before midnight.

Another sibling, Ramona Revilla, was allegedly in the house when the incident happened together with three household help and Ram’s production assistant.

Initial police reports claimed that the suspects took Ramona with them, but dropped her off in front of a mall in Las Pinas City an hour later.

A seven-man team headed a special task force to investigate the killing of Ramgen, which later identified seven suspects in all.

It was concluded that Ramgen’s siblings Ramon Joseph, 18, and

Ramona, 22, had masterminded the crime. Ramon Joseph was soon taken into custody but Ramona remains at large. Dispute over their alleged P1-million allowance caused the felony according to a witness in the case.

Sen. Bong on the other hand expressed his disbelief over the cops’ findings—that his two halfsiblings would conspire to kill their own brother. “Hindi kapanipaniwala na gagawin yun ng aming kapatid. At kung saka-sakaling ginawa nga niya...pero sa tingin

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Ram Revilla

Ramona Revilla

namin hindi kayang gawin. Up to now yes, walang makapagsabi na solido na sila nga.”

As of press time, Senator Bong Revilla has called for a re-investigation to ensure that the authorities came up with a correct conclusion. “Nakikiusap ako na kung maaari, magkaroon ng re-investigation, siguraduhin natin,” the Senator said. ■

As for being a Kapamilya again, Richard was happy to be given such a warm welcome after being away for 10 years. “I am very happy that the prodigal son is back!

E, alam mo naman, matigas ang ulo ko dati. Siguro that was the reason kung bakit ako umalis ng ABS-CBN noon,” he cheerfully explained. “But now, I’m here again. Hindi naman ako mahirap kumbinsihin. Talagang kinailangan lang ng konting panahon para makabalik ako sa ABS-CBN.” ■

Charice seeks justice for his father’s death

nternational singing sensation Charice lost her father, Ricky Pempengco, 43, a construction worker who died from two stab wounds in an altercation with another man on a street in Laram Village, San Pedro, Laguna, last October 31.

Ricky was reportedly in the middle of a drinking session and was just about to buy cigarettes in a nearby store when he was attacked with an ice pick by the suspect, Angel Capili, Jr., 35.

Police and local officials offered a P200,000-reward leading to his arrest.

Charice, who just recently held a concert in Manila, had decided to cancel her scheduled appearance in the David Foster and Friends’ tour in Singapore to pay her last respects to her father.

“I want to send a message to whoever killed my father… I am hoping justice will be served, not

just for my father but for other people as well,” she tearfully told reporters upon her arrival at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport last November 1.

Her parents had separated when she was a toddler due to her father’s abusive and violent behaviour. Last time na nakita ko siya, iyon nga ‘yung mga violent things na nangyari sa amin. I was 3 to 4. Sobrang nakakalungkot lang na kahit sa last na pagkikita namin in a violent way pa rin.”

But despite her family’s painful past, the 19-year-old singer claims to have had a “great short relationship” with her dad. “Sana hindi siya pumunta sa wrong way, sana hindi siya gumamit ng drugs, sana hindi siya sumama sa maling grupo. But in the end, he’s still my dad. Kahit na hindi kami nagka-bonding for a long time, I know that ngayon he knows na we still love him.” ■

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Sports

VOLLEYBALL: Philippine Army and Ateneo compete in Southeast Asian Club Women’s Volleyball Invitational

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his year’s Shakey’s V-Leauge Champions, Women’s Philippine Army competed in the Southeast Asian Club Women’s Volleyball Invitational alongside the Ateneo Team as Philippine representatives.

The 4-day tournament started last Thursday 27th of October 2011 and was held at the FilOilFlying V Arena in San Juan.

The competition was stiff and the players had to go through a needle’s hole. The Lady Troopers’ core players, national

team members Michelle and Mayette Carolino, Tina Salak, and Mary Jean Balse, had a difficult time winning against Malaysia on the first day of the competition. On day 2, Vietnam’s Vietsovpetro were even more brutal to the Philippine Army by beating them by scores of 25-20, 2523, 25-23. The Ateneo Lady Eagles, on the other hand, were more fortunate and were able take the game from Malaysia, having Fille Cainglet as one of their key players. Ateneo however,

lost to the Philippine team and this win gives the Army Team the match-up with Vietnam for the finals. The most unfortunate part of the competition was when the unstoppable Russian players sealed the deal for Vietnam, 2009 SEA Games silver medallists, and took the invitational championship title. Despite the loss, this tournament served as a good experience for the Army Team and great training for the Ateneo’s upcoming season for Volleyball UAAP 74. ■

CHEERDANCE: Blonde Attack: UP Pep Squad to represent Philippines in 6th Cheerleading World Championships

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heerleading is not a big sport in the Philippines but the outstanding performance of the UP Pep Squad in the recent UAAP Cheering Competition has been making waves for the past months. The squad, who won the cheerleading competition in the Philippine National Games this summer, has been invited to perform in various television shows.

They have even crossed over to football matches and were invited to perform in the opening of this year’s United Football League (UFL) and in the friendly game of the Azkals against Nepal. The art is starting to make a name for the university’s pep squad.

The latest addition to the growing list of achievements of the UP Squad is their upcoming competition this

November 26 and 27 in Hong Kong. The University of the Philippines Pep Squad is slated to represent the country and compete in the 6th Cheerleading World Championships. If they’re bringing another A-game performance like their wild and blonde routine in the recent UAAP cheerdance competition, they’re sure to bring home another victory! ■

MARTIAL ARTS: Philippine Wushu Team Clinches 5th Spot in World Championships

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he recently concluded 11th Wushu World Championships in Ankara Sports Arena last October 9–14 in Turkey turned out to be a massively successful trip for our country’s national team.

Mark Eddiva (65 kgs), Benjie Rivera (56 kgs), and Rhea Mae Rifani (48 kgs) of the Philippine Sanda Team; and Tai Chi expert Daniel Parantac, for the Taolu Team, all managed to get a bronze medal each.

Marianne Mariano and Mary Jane Estimar, both from the Women’s Sanda Team, were able to place 2nd after facing Chinese participants, Qui Tiao and Liu Lingling in the finals of the 52 and 56 kilogram divisions, respectively. Jessie Aligaga (48 kgs) and Dembert Arcita (52 kgs), two of the lightest representatives from the team, were able to win gold medals. Aligala, an Iloilo native, is barely five feet in

height but was able to beat Davit Grigoryan only after two rounds. Fellow Ilonggo Arcita beat his Vietnamese opponent, Hong Hoang, in an equally swift and early pace at round three.

The Philippines secured the 5th spot (1st: China, 2nd: Iran, 3rd: Hong Kong, 4th Russia), after bagging a total of 8 medals from the competition an immense improvement from the past year’s performances and statistical results. ■

BASKETBALL: New Coach Abanilla will rebuild DLSU ith the resignation of Four. A comeback is in order but the 1990. His credentials include being

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Dindo Pumaren, many were left with the questions of who is going to replace him.

After a devastating drop from the Championship run in this year’s UAAP Season, UAAP Season 75 is going to be a very crucial year for the DLSU. The team’s statistics were quite poor as compared to their usual performance and they did not even make it to the Final

most important ingredient to the equation was the coach. On October 25, the questions were answered when Gelacio “Gee” Abanilla was appointed as the new head coach of the De La Salle University Seniors Basketball Team. He was a logical choice because he was a former player for the Archers back when it was under NCAA and even won back-to-back titles in 1989 and

assistant coach to DLSU, Purefoods TJ Hotdogs, FedEx Express to name a few. He was also the head coach of College of St. Benilde Blazers and Colgate Toothpaste prior to his current position with DLSU. Abanilla hopes to rebuild the foundations of DLSU’s team by bringing in a new system and a new coaching style; and to bring the boys to hopefully at least the Final Four. ■

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition

BOXING: Pacquiao: More Than Ready For Marquez

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he much awaited boxing fight of the year is edging nearer and boxing fans all over the world couldn’t be any more excited. Manny Pacquiao is slated to fight Juan Manuel Marquez III for the third time this coming November 12, 2011 (Novemeber 13 in Philippine time) in Las Vegas Nevada’s MGM Grand Arena. After revolting statements from Marquez’s side that the previous two fights have been “stolen from him,” the Bukidnon-born fighter is dead-set in proving to everyone that these titles are rightfully his and that the same goes for their third and possibly last match against each other. Pacquiao started training

two weeks early before his highaltitude training in Baguio wherein he left training partner Venezuelan Jorge Linares sustained a cut in the left eye during a sparring session. Pacquiao and his entourage ended his month long training camp in Baguio City, Philippines on October 8 and are finishing training in Wild Card Gym in Hollywood, California.

Hasting Bwalya who carries a 7-0 record, 5 of which are KOs, was left with bloodied mouth and nose only after two rounds during one of their sparring sessions in California. Pacquiao’s performance in training is proves that his endurance, strength, and agility is at an all time high. ■

BOXING: Donaire Defends Almost-Perfect Record

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ctober 22, 2011 is a testament to the Filipino’s staying power in the world of boxing as Nonito Donaire, Jr. silenced critics all over the world after dominating all 12 rounds against Argentinean Boxer, Omar Navaez. The 28 year old fighter defended the bantamweight title for World Boxing Council and World Boxing Organization after winning via unanimous decision. He first won the title from a fight against Fernando Montiel through a second-round knockout in Las Vegas February this year. Many were disappointed from the overly defensive Navaez who refused to throw legitimately damaging punches and that Donaire was unable to knock him

out. The crowd’s expectations of a KO heightened when Donaire landed some uppercuts in the latter part of the 10th round but the two Southpaw players stretched the fight up until the final round and Donaire’s persistent masterful boxing reigned in the end. All three judges scored the fight 120-108 in favour of the Filipino boxer as the crowd roared in Madison Square Garden’s WaMu Teater in New York City. This fight added more glamour to the already nearly pristine record of Donaire. The fighter has maintained a 26 straight wins in the past 9 years and this win against Navaez upped his record to 27 wins out of 28 fights, 18 of which are by knockout. ■

BOXING: Barriga on the way to 2012 London Olympics

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n October 4, 2011, Filipino boxers Rey Saludar and Mark Anthony Barriga, failed to win their respective matches in the 2011 AIBA World Championships in Baku, Azerbaijin. Saludar lost to American Olympic and world titlist, Rau’shee Warren; while Barriga lost to Zhou Shiming of China, an Olympics and Asian Games champion. Shortly afterwards, Philippine Sports Commission chair Richie Garcia made a statement that the Philippines still has another chance to partake in the 2012 London Games. Although much tougher and more difficult, Saludar and Barriga can still participate by going through the Asian Qualifiers. The two Filipino

boxers were already readying themselves for their second shot when good news fell on the lap of Barriga. Since both boxers made it to the round of 16, there was a possibility of still qualifying if their winning opponents from Baku advance in the finals in their respective divisions. Mark Barriga ironically has Zhou Shiming, the person who beat him, to thank for his second chance. He is now officially qualified in the 2012 Olympics and is the first Filipino athlete to earn a spot in the London games after Zou defeated Russian boxer David Ayrapetyan in the light flyweight division finals. Saludar, on the other hand, has to wait until next year’s Asian Olympic qualifying event due to Warren’s beating from Aloain. ■

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Sports

26th SEA Games in Indonesia: All The Way for Team Pilipinas

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he 26th South East Asian Games 2011 (SEA Games) is finally here with eleven participating countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Timor-Leste and Vietnam) battling for athletic supremacy for eleven days starting from the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 2011 (11 to 22 November 2011). The Philippines is sending hundreds of young athletes to compete in 44 sports with 542 gold medals at stake. The games will be held in two host cities, Jakarta and Palembang. In the 25th SEA Games in 2009, the Philippines placed 5th after bagging 38 gold medals, 35 silver medals, and 51 bronze medals. Team Philippines is hoping to return home with bigger, brighter, and better results. Philippine Sports Commission (PSC) chairman Ricardo Garcia made an assuring statement that everything was provided from airfare, equipments,

track suits and uniforms, and other athletics needs. With everything going smoothly, the Philippine Team is focused on keeping their eyes on the prize in the Indonesia games.

Top Hopefuls in Philippine Roster The results are projected to be in very elated terms with the numerous contenders in various events. Boxer Rey Saludar, Bowler Biboy Rivera, and Billiards player Dennis Orculla all won gold medals in last year’s Asian Games in Guangzhou, China and are slated to hopefully win the top spot in their respective sports in this year’s SEA Games. 19 year old boxer Mark Anthony Barriga the Philippine representative for the London 2012 Olympics is fighting alongside Saludar, and the returning SEA games representatives, Joan Tipon, Delfin Boholst, Rolando Tacuyan, Charly Suarez and Delfin Boholst.

Newbies but Goodies Newbies in the field of Chess, Football, and Dragon Boat Racing will be competing in this year’s competition. Coming back from hiatus are the Philippine Chess Team and Philippine Football’s U-23 Squad. The chess team is returning with a vengeance to the SEA games after six long years by bringing with them Wesley So, the only Filipino in the top 100 FIDEWorld Chess Federation rankings.

So will be gunning for the gold with equally competent Grand Master

BASKETBALL: Energen Pilipinas places 4th in FIBA Asia U-16 Championships

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he FIBA Asia Under-16 Championship was recently concluded last October 28, after a 20-day tournament run in Nha Trang, Vietnam. The top two winners of the U-16 Championships qualify for the FIBA Under-17 World Championship on July 2012 to be held in Kaunas, Lithunia. The U-16 Championship meet under FIBA is only on its 2nd year and China, Japan, and our very

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own team Energen Pilipinas all maintained their spots. Once again, China was hailed best while Japan came in as runnerups. Out of 15 competing teams, Philippines placed 4th with a 6-2 record. Energen Pilipinas was eliminated from the championship run by Korea when they lost 67-58.

Energen finally settled for the 4th place spot after failing to win against Japan for the 3rd place. The last time that

a Philippine team reached the championship games of a FIBA-Asia tournament was back in January 1988 wherein the country’s representative’s finished 2nd to Qatar. This game was the first and only Under-17 competition under the former name of FIBA-Asia, Asian Basketball Confederation. The team was incidentally captained by Olsen Racela, the current head coach of Energen Pilipinas. ■

FOOTBALL: Intergalactic December for Pinoy Football Fans

he narrative of Philippine Football keeps on getting better with the recent successes of the Philippine Azkals. After placing 2nd in the recently concluded Long Teng Cup, an improvement from last year; and winning by 4 goals to nothing during the friendly game against Nepal, the Philippine team jumped 8 spots in the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) ranking and is now at the 158 spot. And to put a cherry on top of the already stellar events, Major League Soccer’s Los Angeles Galaxy, more known as LA

Galaxy, are coming to the Philippines for a friendly match against our Philippine Team. LA Galaxy’s President for Business Operations Thomas Payne made the news official on October 27, Thursday in front of the press in

Makati Shangri-La. LA Galaxy is composed of international football superstars such as English midfielder David Beckham, American skipper Landon Donovan, and Irish striker Robbie Keane to name a few. The Philippine stop will be the second leg in LA Galaxy’s three-country Australasian Tour.

The match-up is scheduled on December 3, 2011 in the Rizal Memorial Stadium with kickoff time at 7:30PM. The Galaxy players will also be having a football clinic with kids from Bantay Bata a day prior to the match-up.

Information about the selling of tickets will be on announced in the first week of November. ■

November / December 2011 – Monthly Issue • UK & Europe Edition chess players, Joey Antonio, Oliver Barbosa, Mark Paragua, John Paul Gomez, and Darwin Laylo.

With the new found popularity of football in the country, many will be surprised to find out that the team last competed in the 23rd SEA games back in 2005 here in the Philippines. After having gained enough momentum and experience last October in their training camp in Japan, a superb performance in the Long Teng Cup, and a 4-0 win against Nepal in the international friendly, the Junior Azkals are projected to perform well and are hoping to at least reach the medal round. Mark and Matthew Hartmann, Jason De Jong, Carlie De Murga, Jeff Christaens, Manny Ott, and goalkeeper Roland Müller are some of the players set to play.

After the much celebrated success of the Philippine Dragon Boat Federation in the recent World Championships, the Philippine Caneo Kayak Federation’s dragon boat team will be taking on the challenge

of maintaining the status of the Philippines boat racing.

Sinag Pilipinas: All Star Basketball Team Coach Norman Black led the Ateneo Blue Eagles to a 4-peat this season and hopes to go for gold in this year’s SEA games in Jakarta. The Philippines has only won the championship once, in the year 1989 in Kuala Lumpur and after being on hiatus, as well, in the 25th SEA Games due to a lack of a suitable venue in Laos, Sinag Pilipinas is determined to go all the way. This year, the best of collegiate basketball was gathered to represent Philippine basketball.

Blue Eagles Ravena, Slaughter, Salva, and Monfort will be playing with UAAP rivals such Teng and Fortuna from UST, FEU’s RR Garcia and Season 74 MVP Bobby Ray Parks, Jr. They will also be joined by some of the NCAA bests, Jake Pascual and Garvo Lanete of San Beda; and Ian Sangalang and Ronald Pascual of San Sebastian.

SMART Gilas Pilipinas national team’s Chris Tiu and Marcus Douthit will be completing the lineup for the games in Jakarta. ■

BASKETBALL: First Month Recap for PBA Season 37

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month’s worth of Basketball has rained on Philippine soil ever since the opening of the PBA’s 37th Season last October 2, 2011. Many stories have unfolded such as the pivotal win of B-Meg, now coached by Tim Cone, against Alaska Aces, the team formerly under Cone’s wing. Another important story from this year’s season is how Rain or Shine has been dominating the games early on this season. As of Saturday November 5, the Elasto Painters is in the number 1 spot with 6 wins and a 9

point margin loss concurred from Talk and Text Tropang Texters last October 14. On the number 2 spot is Meralco Bolts with 5 wins and 3 losses. Petron Blaze Boosters, Barako Bull Energy, and Talk and Text all have 4 wins. At the last place, however, is Shopinas.com Clickers without a single win so far. The 37th season of the PBA will go on for the next foreseeable months but stories in and out of the court will continue to pan out. We just have to wait and see how this basketball narrative will turn out to be! ■

BASKETBALL: San Beda: King of NCAA Basketball

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an Beda finished strong in the 87th Season of the NCAA by dominating both the Seniors and Juniors division of Basketball. The San Beda Lions won the championship for the second year in a row by sweeping the San Sebastian Stags in finals series last October 26, 2011. The finals series kept avid collegiate basketball followers on their toes. Game two was a very tight game that resulted to San Beda’s two-point win (57-55). Despite a staggering performance from San Sebastian’s Pascual (15 pts.), Sangalag (13 pts.) and current MVP Abueva (12 pts.), off-the-bench player FilipinoAustralian David Semerad of the

San Beda Lions turned the game around by outscoring everyone in the opposing team in the fourth quarter alone. He was able to produce a total of 15 points which sealed the deal in securing San Beda’s 5th championship title in just the past six years. A week later, San Beda reiterates their domination after Coach Britt Reroma led the Red Cubs to a 19th NCAA title in the Juniors division on November 3.

The series was already tied after St. Benilde-La Salle Greenhills Greenies won the first game by an upset but the Cubs took the homerun after winning the second game with a 69-61 end score. ■

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