US Asian Post December 23, 2015

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Maine Mendoza speaks up aboout showbiz success See Page 7

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Vol. 5 No. 13

LOS ANGELES

A BALITA MEDIA PUBLICATION

Wednesday - Tuesday, December 23 - 29, 2015

Pia Wurtzbach wins Miss Universe But not after host Steve Harvey says Miss Colombia was winner MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – Pia Wurtzbach was crowned Miss Universe 2015 on Sunday (Monday PHL time).

She becomes only the third Filipina to win the crown after Gloria Diaz and Margarita Moran.

The 26-year-old FilipinaGerman actress and model was crowned amid much confusion after host Steve Harvey initially announced Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez as the winner of the 64th edition of the pageant.

Harvey apologized and said he read the wrong results.

Pia was shocked so was Ariadna.

Miss Universe 2014 Paulina Vega stood awkwardly between Pia and Ariadna and only after a few minutes was she able to get the crown off Ariadna’s head and put it on Pia’s head.

Pia was elegant in her final walk before the winners were named, as shown in this video of Miss Universe on their official Twitter account In the question and answer portion, when asked why she should be named Miss Universe

(a question also asked of Miss USA and Miss Colombia), Pia said she will use her voice to influence the youth and raise awareness to causes that are relevant such as HIV awareness.

“I will use my voice to influence the youth and I would raise awareness to certain causes like HIV awareness, that is timely and relevant to my country,” Pia said.

“To be a Miss Universe is both an honor and a responsibility,” Pia added.

“I want to show the world, the universe rather, that I am confidently beautiful with a heart,” Pia said, to the cheers of the live audience.

In an earlier question and answer portion, Pia was asked what she thought about having US military bases in the Philippines.

See MISS UNIVERSE, page 12

Nona death toll rises to 34

MANILA, Dec 19 (Mabuhay) – Thirty-four people have been confirmed killed as of Saturday morning due to the onslaught of Typhoon Nona in Luzon and Visayas regions.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) announced in a live briefing that 13 of the deaths were reported in Mimaropa, five in Cagayan Valley, three in Calabarzon, four in Bicol, eight in Eastern Visayas and one in Metro Manila.

NDRRMC chief Alexander Pama also reported that five more people have been reported missing and 24 others were injured due to Nona.

Pama also reported that 42 roads and 21 bridges in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa,

Bicol, Eastern Visayas and CAR were still impassable.

He also said that eight cities and 45 municipalities are still experiencing power interruptions due to damaged power lines caused by Nona’s strong winds.

President Benigno Aquino III on Friday declared a state of national calamity following the devastation caused by the typhoon.

The NDRRMC said that as of 8 a.m. Saturday, a total of 74,573 families or 362,753 people are still in evacuation centers in 13 provinces in Central Luzon, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, bicol and Eastern Visayas.

In its earlier report, a total of 165,554 families or more than 740,000 people were preemptively evacuated in Central Luzon, See NONA DEATH, page 12

Buyer of assault rifles used in San Bernardino terror attack charged RIVERSIDE, California – Enrique Marquez Jr., a longtime friend of Syed Rizwan Farook, the male shooter in the San Bernardino terrorist attack, was charged today with conspiring with Farook in 2011 and 2012 to commit crimes of terrorism. Marquez was also charged today with the unlawful purchase of two assault rifles used in the deadly shooting two weeks ago.

A three-count criminal complaint filed this afternoon additionally charges Marquez with defrauding immigration authorities by entering into a sham marriage with a member of Farook’s family.

Marquez, a 24-year-old Riverside resident, was arrested today by special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and he is expected to make his initial court appearance this afternoon in federal court in Riverside.

The criminal complaint filed in United States District Court charges Marquez with conspiring with Farook to provide material support – including himself, a firearm and explosives – for crimes of terrorism; making a false statement in connection with acquisition of firearms; and immigration fraud.

“Mr. Marquez conspired with Mr. Farook to commit vicious attacks, as set forth in today’s charges,” said United States Attorney See SAN BERNARDINO, page 12

Miss Philippines 2015, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach (center), who was mistakenly named as First Runner-up, is given the crown after being named the eventual winner and 2015 Miss Universe at the Miss Universe Pageant in Las Vegas, Nevada on Sunday (Mondayin Manila) (MNS photo)

Grace Poe: Philippines spends $1.8 billion Search for kin will on military modernization Manila, Philip- fice next year, as he bemoaned the be ‘blessed with pines | AFP | Monday 12/21/2015 lack of proper equipment that had Philippine President Benigno long hampered the military. positive outcome’ –Aquino promised Monday that “Back then, because of lack of MANILA, Dec 19 (Mabuhay) – Presidential aspirant Senator Grace Poe expressed hope on Saturday that her long search for her biological parents “will be blessed with a positive outcome” now that more people have come out to help her identify them.

The latest was retired Judge Jesus Nograles Rodriguez Jr., 76, who offered a P300,000 reward for anyone who could offer a “solid and credible information” that could help lead to the true identity of Poe’s biological parents.

Rodriguez said the reward will See GRACE POE, page 12

83.9 billion pesos ($1.77 billion) allocated for military modernization projects would be spent by 2017 as the country faces a territorial dispute with China.

Speaking at a ceremony to mark the 80th anniversary of the armed forces, Aquino said his administration had already spent 56.79 billion pesos of the total scheduled for full disbursement by 2017 on “big-ticket” modernization programs.

This was more than the sum spent by the three previous administrations, said Aquino, who took office in 2010 and leaves of-

equipment, there was a soldier in a sensitive operation carrying a purple backpack from a fast food chain. I just don’t think a purple backpack is suited for an operation in the jungle,” he told assembled soldiers.

The president cited the new equipment purchased in recent years including FA-50 jets, the country’s first supersonic fighter aircraft for a decade.

Two of the 12 South Koreanmade jets have been delivered and Aquino said the rest would reach the country before the end See MILITARY, page 12

Heavy rains flood Fed agent pleads guilty to taking six barangays bribes from Korean exec being in Bohol town investigated for human trafficking MANILA, Dec 19 (Mabuhay) – Six barangays in Candijay, Bohol experienced flooding due to rains on Saturday brought on by the low pressure area and northwest monsoon.

The six flooded barangays in Candijay town include Lungsod Daan, La Union, Panadtaran, Boyo-an, Pagahat and Poblacion.

Authorities said that the flooding was caused by the swelling of the Pilar Dam. Local authorities forcibly evacuated in Panadtaran because floodwaters in the barangays was waist-deep.

Relief goods have been provided to the displaced residents.

(MNS)

LOS ANGELES – A former special agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) pleaded guilty this afternoon to accepting thousands of dollars in bribes from a man who had been accused of trafficking a woman into the United States to be a sex slave.

Joohoon David Lee, 43, who currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty to one count of bribery before United States District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald.

“Corrupt officials who abuse their positions of power to line their pockets compromise our entire system of government,”

said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “In this case, a federal law enforcement officer thwarted justice in exchange for just a few thousand dollars and hindered the ability of a possible trafficking victim to seek justice.”

Lee accepted money from a Korean man identified in court documents at “H.S.” According to a plea agreement filed in this case, Lee, who was assigned to HSI’s Human Trafficking unit in Los Angeles, interviewed a woman in March 2012 who claimed that she was entering the United States to be a slave for a Korean businessman named H.S. About a year later, acSee FED AGENT, page 12

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Customs bureau makes biggest haul of fake cigarettes MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – The Bureau of Customs on Monday said it has recorded this year’s biggest haul of counterfeit cigarettes after an antismuggling operation early this month yielded fake P12.675 million worth of the contraband in various warehouses in Davao City.

The raiding team of the BOC-Enforcement Group brought samples of Marlboro, More, Fortune, Philip Morris, Jacpot, Hope and other cigarettes to Phillip Morris Philippines

Inc. to examine the authenticity of the imported products.

The cigarette maker confirmed that the cigarettes were not produced by or with the permission of Philip Morris International, and are deemed counterfeit.

“The widespread proliferation of fake cigarettes has flooded the local market.

We cannot blame these retail stores for buying counterfeit cigarettes since these are sold at a cheaper price,” said EG

Deputy Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno.

“Why wouldn’t it be cheap? These suppliers import these cigarettes but do not pay proper taxes and duties,” he added.

The bureau has served the Warrant of Seizure and Detention on HBTT Marketing Warehouse for violating Section 2530 of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines by not paying duties and taxes and in relation to Intellectual Property Rights Law.(MNS)

Pimentel files bill vs labor contractualization Department of Tourism (DOT) Undersecretary Benito Bengzon Jr. shakes hands with the Philippines’ fivemillionth foreign visitor, Fil-Am Gabby Grantham, who arrived in the Philippines Monday morning (December 21, 2015). This is Grantham’s second time to visit the Philippines. The first was when she was seven years old. She says that she looks forward to spending the holidays with her grandparents in Cebu. She also plans to visit Palawan. She is daughter to a Filipino mother and American father. (MNS photo)

Don’t inconvenience Christmas travelers, transport execs told MANILA, Dec 19 (Mabuhay) – With the expected surge in the number of travelers this Christmas season, Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has urged Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio Abaya and airport officials to hire more personnel to assist passengers especially those at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia).

“Passengers have to contend with the monstrous traffic going in and out of our airports in the Naia and they certainly don’t deserve this. That is why our airport officials need to make sure they don’t suffer more inconvenience anymore when they step into the airport. More personnel should be manning our airports especial-

ly the Naia,” Marcos said in a statement on Saturday. The Manila International Airport Authority had stated that it was expecting passenger volume to go up by 10 percent this Christmas week from the 1.6 million arrivals and 1.4 million departures last year. This translates to at least 300,000 additional passengers.

Marcos explained that despite the maximum deployment of airport police and personnel from December 15 to January 5, this will not be enough to assist all passengers.

Marcos also pointed out that some ticketing gates are closed or do not have enough personnel even during peak hours.

It can be recalled that during the Christmas break last year, scores of

passengers complained because they were not able to fly out and spend Christmas day in their desired destinations because of unmanned counters.

Marcos said that the number of disgruntled passengers will continue to grow if not enough airport personnel will be deployed to assist them.

“I receive numerous complaints from passengers. I myself have experienced it. And it will only get worse if our airport officials continue to ignore the desperate pleas of our passengers. The way to solve this for now is for them to hire more personnel to man the gates so that more gates will be opened and more baggage scanners may be operated to service them,” Marcos said. (MNS)

MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III has filed a bill that seeks to stop the prevalent practices of labor contractualization that have made it difficult for workers to attain the security of tenure guaranteed by the Constitution.

Pimentel’s Senate Bill No. 3030 aims to strengthen the prohibition against labor-only contracting, amending for the purpose Presidential Decree No. 442, otherwise known as the Labor Code of the Philippines as amended.

He said the Constitution provides that “the State affirms labor as a prima-

ry social economic force,” and that “it shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare.”

“The same constitutional provisions further mandate the rights of workers to security of tenure, human conditions of work, and a living wage,” the senator said in a statement on Monday.

But Pimentel said there are employers who “wantonly circumvent labor laws through a system that is designed to prevent workers from attaining regular employment and security of tenure.”

He said workers are terminated every five

months and thereafter are rehired for the same duration or by denying the existence of employer-employee relationship by engaging the services of workers either from workers’ cooperatives or manpower agencies.

“These prevalent practices of labor contractualization have made it difficult for workers to attain the security of tenure guaranteed by the Constitution,” he said.

If enacted into law, Pimentel said his bill will put an end to the “malpractice that has victimized tens of thousands of workers nationwide.”(MNS)

Mindanao Polytechnic grad tops Customs Broker licensure exam GENERAL SANTOS CITY (December 19, 2015) – A 21-year old graduate of the Mindanao Polytechnic College topped this year’s Customs Broker Licensure Examination.

Sheena Mae Gonzales, received a special citation during the 119th regular session of the Sangguniang Panlungsod on December 15 for bagging the number one spot for this year’s examination held last November.

Gonzales graduated magna cum laude in the course of Bachelor of Science in Customs Administration from MPC. She is one of the 721 who passed the exam out of the 1,764 examinees.

During the SP session, she thanked the council for the warm welcome and commendation she received.

“I am very honored and proud kay gitagaan ko ug privilege nga ma recognize diri sa city jud. It is unpredictable nga napatawag ko diria,” Gonzales exclaimed.

“From MPC, nagkaroon na rin kami ng topnotcher before, pero first time nagkaroon ng top one (1) ngayon sa course namin, first time talaga,” she added.

When asked about her future plans, she revealed her desire to enroll in law school, while working at the same time.

“Plan pa lang due to financial constraints, pero mag work pa para makaenrol. I’m planning to work at Bureau of Customs. Actually, this is just a second choice, a preparatory course before going to law school,” she elaborated.

City Councilor Ramon Melliza added that the sooner, the better that the city will have another bar topnotcher. Gonzales was also complimented for being an inspiration and role model for the youth.

Gonzales said, hardwork, determination and faith in God was her secret to topping the exams.

“Kung wala ang favor ni God, bisag unsa ka ka bright, dili gyud na ihatag sa imo. You have to pray always, Mao lang na akong ginabuhat,” she added.

Other examinees hailing from this city who also made good showing in the exams with the rating of 90.75 were Jarohsan Dang-ay, Gladys Joy Obsum, Sharmaine Punio and Marco Tactacan.

(Gensan CPIO/ Sharmagne Villacastin)

TRC pampered officials, employees with P20.47-M of unauthorized benefits: COA report MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – The Technology Resource Center (TRC), a soon-to-be-abolished government-owned and controlled corporation (GOCC), pampered its officials and employees with P20.47-million worth of unauthorized bonuses and other incentives in 2014, the Commission on Audit (COA) has claimed.

Based on its analysis of the TRC’s book of accounts as of December 31, 2014, the commission said a total of P20,470,468.74 in fringe benefits and allowances was granted by the agency to its officials and employees and was recorded under its Miscellaneous Services account.

The COA made the revelation in an annual audit report published on its website.

Based on the COA report, the alleged unauthorized grants included Omnibus Allowances amounting to P15.766 million, Economic Incentives worth P4.664 million, and Mid-year Bonus Differentials totaling P39,462.42.

A review of the TRC’s approved Corporate Operating Budget for 2014 revealed that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) disallowed the giving of bonuses and incentives under the Miscellaneous Services, “hence, payment of said personnel benefits had no

legal basis,” the state auditors said.

The commission pointed out that under Section 4 of Presidential Decree 1445 or the Government Auditing Code of the Philippines, “no money shall be paid out of any public treasury or depository except in pursuance of an appropriation law or other specific statutory authority.”

The COA said that for national government agencies and GOCCs, the authority to give bonuses and incentives must come from the DBM or the Office of the President.

The state audit body further said that “despite repetitive issuance of Notices of Disallowance and audit recommendations to refund and stop the grant of Omnibus Allowance and Economic Incentives for lack of legal basis, Management continued paying the same.”

Elevating the matter The commission recommended that the TRC management stop paying allowances and incentives and return what has been paid out unless it is able to obtain approval from the DBM or the Office of the President.

In a letter of reply to the audit report, the TRC Legal Services Division maintained that the agency has the legal basis and valid cause for giving out the allowances and eco-

nomic incentives and said that the payments “have been part and parcel of every employee’s hard earned budget.”

The TRC is elevating the matter to the Supreme Court (SC) should the commission deny its appeal on the Notice of Disallowance the commission issued in 2012.

“TRC strongly believes that the audit observation/recommendation is a pure question of law which must be resolved, no less, by the Supreme Court...

However, pending the Commission’s resolution/ decision, we recommend that the TRC Management stop the grant of the above-mentioned fringe benefits/allowances,” the COA said in a rejoinder to the TRC letter.

The TRC became controversial following reports that it was among the three GOCCs used as conduits in the misallocation of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) or pork barrel of several lawmakers to fake foundations linked to the alleged pork barrel scam mastermind, Janet LimNapoles.

The other GOCCs dragged into the pork barrel scam were the National Livelihood Development Corporation (NLDC) and the National Agri-Business Corporation (NABCOR).

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Recurring flood nightmare in typhoon-battered PHL

by Noel Celis

Candaba, Philippines | AFP | Friday 12/18/2015 – Tens of thousands of people struggled Friday through waist-deep floods in typhoon-battered farmlands near the Philippine capital, as yet another storm threatened to dump more rain.

Large parts of four farming provinces on the main northern island of Luzon have been submerged in water since Wednesday due to Typhoon Melor, which left at least 27 people dead in its wake.

Hundreds of thousands of people there had yet to recover from Typhoon Koppu, which claimed 54 lives while causing flooding that lasted for more than a week and destroyed vast swathes of rice crops just before harvest in October.

President Benigno Aquino on Friday declared a “state of national calamity” to hasten the government response, his spokesman, Herminio Coloma, told reporters.

Truck driver Roberto Mariano, who has been out of work since Koppu, again found the small bungalow he shared with

15 relatives submerged.

“The floods mean no work and no money for me,” the 51-year-old told AFP, trying to keep his balance as he walked through strong flood currents in Candaba, around 50 kilometres (30 miles) north of Manila.

Mariano, who used to earn 500 pesos ($10) driving, was on his way to his parents’ house to borrow money to buy rice.

“It’s very hard out here.

I have to go out because we’ve run out of food in the house,” he said.

Mariano said he had spent the last two nights sleepless, anxiously watching as the waters nearly submerged the children’s wooden beds.

‘We’re used to this’ Flooding was expected to spread to other parts of the country with a tropical depression, locally dubbed Onyok, on course to hit coastal villages on the main southern island of Mindanao late Friday.

In Surigao del Sur province, where Onyok was expected to make landfall first, authorities prepared for possible evacuation and readied trucks and excavators to clear landslide

debris, governor Johnny Pimentel told AFP. “We are prepared for this storm... the biggest threat here is the floods,” he said.

While Onyok will hit land about 700 kilometres from the farming regions currently enduring floods, it could still bring rain to those areas, said Esperanza Cayanan, a state weather bureau forecaster.

The weather misery comes a week before Christmas, the most celebrated holiday in the predominantly Catholic nation of 100 million people.

“We should not be in holiday mode,” Cayanan told reporters.

In the Candaba town centre, residents with groceries in hand rode small wooden boats and makeshift rafts made from refrigerator doors.

Others showed commitment to their daily routines, eating at roadside canteens waist-deep in flood waters.

“We’re used to this, but it doesn’t make it any less difficult,” said Candelaria Balagtas, a 68-year-old retired policewoman.

The country is ravaged

Members of the 4th Infantry (Diamond) Division of the Armed Forces of the Philippines arrange equipment for possible rescue operations on Friday. The AFP deployed troops for humanitarian assistance and disaster response in Northern Mindanao and Region 13 in preparation for tropical depression Onyok.(MNS photo)

by an average of 20 major storms a year, many of them deadly.

Balagtas said she risked triggering her arthritis by wading through the frigid waters to the market to buy rice and sardines for her daughter after they ran out of food.

Rizalito David asks Comelec to cancel Duterte’s COC for president MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – Broadcaster Rizalito David on Monday asked the Commission on Elections to declare Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte’s candidacy as PDP-Laban’s substitute presidential bet as null and void.

David — who previously filed petitions against another presidential aspirant, Senator Grace Poe, before the Comelec and the Senate Electoral Tribunal — is seeking for the cancellation of Duterte’s COC. In a six-page petition, David said the popular local executive, along with PDP-Laban’s Martin Diño, “desecrated the system with impunity” given the sequence of events leading to Duterte’s filing of his certificate of candidacy.

David said the mayor’s COC was “not seasonably filed,” given that Duterte missed the filing period in October, when he instead filed for reelection in Davao City.

He also scored Duterte for filing his COC for president only on November 27, about a month after Diño withdrew his candidacy in late October, and named him as substitute.

Moreover, he said the Comelec “acted prematurely and was too soft, if not overly accommodating.”

“Not only is Duterte’s COC for President not validly and seasonably filed but the substitution itself is legally infirm,” David

said in his petition.

“As there was no valid substitution, not to mention that his COC was not seasonably filed, his candidacy cannot, therefore, take off. The Commission cannot turn a blind eye to these violations,” he added.

Not after presidential ‘frontrunners’ David was among at least 100 presidential aspirants whose candidacies were deemed nuisance by the Comelec First and Second Divisions.

He filed his COC last October 12. He has since appealed his case before the en banc.

Asked why he seemed to be going after presidential “frontrunners,” he said such standing could not be determined at this point as campaign period has yet to begin.

“Sino ba ang nag-violate ng batas?” David said.

“Dapat ba na para lang maiwasan na masabi na bakit si Grace, at bakit si Duterte naman this time, hindi na natin gagawin?

Responsibilidad nating lahat ito... It’s not a valid allegation na iniisa-isa ko.

Mali ‘yung kanilang ginawa, dapat nating ituwid,” he told reporters.

He said that “procedurally and constitutionally,” he “does not see any” flaw in the candidacies of other leading presidential aspirants, including Vice President Jejomar Binay and Liberal Party standardbearer Mar Roxas.

“Wala akong nakita so far doon sa nai-file ng

ibang kandidato. Dito malinaw ‘yung violation ni Grace, constitutional ‘yan.

Ito namang kay Duterte, violation ‘yan ng procedures,” he said.

COC should have been filed ASAP In an interview after the filing, David also said Duterte’s COC should have been filed immediately and alongside with Diño’s withdrawal.

“Dapat ‘yun magkasabay. ‘Winithdraw ko ito in his favor so ipinasol niya ‘yung kaniya.’ Anong nangyari? Ang lapse nu’n ang tagal... Invalid ‘yan, hindi ‘yan dapat. Mockery of procedure ‘yan,” he said.

He added: “’Di ba doon sa substitution [nila ng anak niya sa Davao], kaliwaan ‘yun? Bakit dito [for president] hindi?”

He also said the Comelec “is not being fair to so many of us” in counting Duterte as a presidential candidate, and said the poll body “shouldn’t accept his COC even ministerially.”

Other DQ case ‘not serious’ The Comelec en banc has ruled to “acknowledge and accept” Duterte’s COC as part of its administrative duty.

However, the mayor may still be disqualified, with a pending petition against him and Diño before the poll body’s First Division.

The case, filed by broadcaster Ruben Castor, was heard by the division last Dec. 18, where the petitioner through his legal

Beijing slams ‘provocative’ US South China Sea flypast Beijing, China | AFP | Saturday 12/19/2015 – Two US B-52 bombers flew close to islands in the flashpoint South China Sea this month in a “serious military provocation”, Beijing said Saturday, as tensions simmer in the disputed waterway. China insists it has sovereignty over virtually all of the resource-rich sea, conflicting with the various claims of several neighboring nations, and US activity in the area has provoked Beijing’s ire several times in recent months.

“In the morning of 10 December, two US B-52 bombers entered air space over the Chinese Nansha islands and nearby areas without authorization,” Beijing’s defense ministry said, using the Chinese name for the Spratly Is-

lands.

“This behavior is a serious military provocation which complicates the general situation in the South China Sea, (contributing) to the militarization of the region,” the ministry said in a statement.

During the mission by the two B-52 bombers, one of the aircraft unintentionally flew within two nautical miles of an artificially constructed island, the Wall Street Journal quoted Pentagon officials as saying Friday.

This may have been because of bad weather conditions, according to officials quoted in the newspaper. Washington said Saturday it routinely conducts training missions in the region, including the South China Sea, adding that it was investigating the reports of the bomber

near the Spratly chain.

“The Chinese have raised concerns with us about the flight path of a recent training mission.

We are looking into the matter,” Pentagon spokesman Mark Wright told AFP. “I will also say that for this mission there was no intention of flying within 12 nautical miles of any feature,” he added. “This was not a Freedom of Navigation Operation.”

‘Show of force’ The United States has previously argued for its right to freedom of navigation in the South China Sea and is critical of China building artificial islands there.

It has flown other B-52 bombers and sailed a guided-missile destroyer near some of the constructions in recent months.

counsel said they had nothing against Duterte running for president, but were against him substituting for Diño because of legal problems therein.

Castor even went out of his way to say he wanted Duterte as president, and that he loved the mayor, as they are both members of the organization Guardians International.

David cited this as another reason for filing his petition.

“I did this because the other guys who filed a disqualification case against him are parang playing around. Parang ang ginagawa nila, ‘makaDuterte kami pero ang gusto namin sa tamang procedure.’ Which is parang, ano ba ito? Ano ba itong ginagawa natin sa eleksyon natin?” he said.

(MNS)

“I’m lucky I have my pension, but the people here, their farms were destroyed, the fishermen can’t go out to fish,” she told AFP. The islands of the Philippines are often the first major landmass that storms hit after they

emerge over the Pacific Ocean.

In November 2013, Super Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest storms on record, flattened entire communities in poor farming and fishing communities, leaving 7,350 people dead or missing.

Chiz seeks passage of legislation to make barangay execs wage earners Sen. Francis “Chiz” Escudero expressed hope his proposal seeking a fixed salary for barangay officials will also be approved when session resumes next month after the Senate passed a bill authorizing barangay captains to administer the oath of office of any government official, including the President.

He said the passage of the twin measures would be a “big step in recognizing the vital role of those in the frontline of government service in nation-building.”

Senate Bill No. 2693, which authorizes the punong barangay or village chieftain to administer the oath of all government officials—from the President down to the lowest elective and appointive public officers—was approved on final reading by the Senate on Dec. 14. Escudero is one of the principal authors of the bill.

“It is just right that our barangay officials are now being given the proper recognition they deserve with all their sacrifices in serving the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week,” said Escudero, who is leading the vice-presidential race.

Since he first became senator in 2007, Escudero has been pushing for a fixed salary for barangay officials rather than a mere honorarium based on their share of the Internal Revenue Allotment or IRA. Escudero’s SBN 124 seeks to amend Section 393 of Republic Act No. 7160, or the Local Government Code, to provide barangay captains a monthly salary which is 20 percent above the minimum wage rate prevailing in their particular region.

Under the proposed measure, barangay council members, treasurers and secretaries will receive a monthly salary based on the prevailing minimum wage rate in the region.

At present, a barangay captain is getting an honorarium of at least P1,000 per month while the councilors, the treasurer and secretary each receive P600 monthly.

“As the most visible faces of government service, our barangay officials deserve to be compensated more than other officials of the government. They are expected to function above and beyond the normal service hours extended by the government to the people, given the proximity of the barangay to homes and workplaces,” he pointed out.

Escudero’s bill has been consolidated in SBN 12, along with other bills seeking higher benefits for officials of 42,000 barangays across the country.

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Aquino’s last mission for AFP: Peaceful, successful 2016 polls MABALACAT CITY, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – With only six months left in office, President Benigno Aquino III on Monday ordered his ‘last mission” to the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP): ensure the peaceful and successful conduct of the 2016 national elections.

“Malaki ang inaasahan sa atin ng ating mga Boss. Malinaw ang kanilang atas: patuloy na maglingkod na walang ibang pinapanigan kundi ang taumbayan; patuloy na suklian ng serbisyo ang kalingang ibinibigay sa inyo; patuloy na maging lakas at sandigan,” Aquino said.

Aquino, the commander-in-chief of the AFP, was the guest of honor during the 80th anniversary of the AFP held at the Clark Air Base here.

“Sa susunod na taon, nakaatang sa ating balikat ang tungkuling siguruhing magiging matiwasay at matagumpay ang paparating na halalan,” he said.

“Ito na ho ang last mission ko para sa inyo, at bilang inyong Commander-in-Chief, tiwala nga akong iisa lang ang kumpas na inyong susundan: Ang gawin ang tama, makatwiran, at makaturungan para sa ikabubuti ng bayan,” Aquino added.

The event marked the last time Aquino would have attended the AFP anniversary as commander in chief and chief executive. He steps down the presidency in June 2016.

In his speech, Aquino trumpeted the transformation of the AFP’s image, which he said was neglected for the past decade, taking a swipe at his predecessor, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

“Sa nakalipas na mga taon, sama-sama nating binago ang imahen ng AFP: Mula sa hukbong napabayaan matapos ang isang dekada ng kasinungalingan, pandaraya, at pagnanakaw sa pamahalaan, pinatatag natin ang inyong hanay upang maging isang mas moderno, mas handa, at mas maaasahang kasundaluhan, na ang tanging interes ay itaguyod ang kapakanan ng ating mga Boss,” said Aquino.

“Gaya nga nang idiniin ko nang una akong humarap sa inyo bilang commander-in-chief noong Hulyo 2010: Kung hindi natutugunan ang mga pangangailangan ng bawat sundalo, paano matutugunan ng bawat sundalo ang pangangailangan ng sambayanan?” he said.

Aquino noted that only 45 projects were implemented for the AFP during the past three administrations totalling to P31.75 billion.

Under his administration, Aquino said 65 projects amounting P56.79 billion have already been implemented. These, he said, was apart from the P83.9-billion Medium Term Capability Development that will run until 2017. (MNS)

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OPINION

Malacañang hails Pia Wurtzbach’s Miss Universe win MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – Malacañang on Monday congratulated newly-crowned Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach, calling her victory a “tremendous source of pride” for the Filipino people.

“In bagging this victory, Ms. Wurtzbach not only serves as a tremendous source of pride for our people, but also holds up the banner of our women and of our country as a true representative of what the Filipina can achieve,” presidential spokes-

person Edwin Lacierda said in a press statement.

“Indeed, this triumph is the result not only of her beauty but also of her passion for positive change, as one who is confidently beautiful with the heart,” he added.

Lacierda noted that the Philippines waited for 42 years before another Filipina was crowned Miss Universe.

Wurtzbach is the the third Filipina to win the crown after Gloria Diaz and Margarita Mo-

ran.

Malacañang also praised Wurtzbach’s elegance and graciousness mid much confusion after host Steve Harvey initially announced Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez as the winner.

“In the first few moments of the original announcement, she showed tremendous poise and control, and even more tremendous graciousness when the real verdict was finally announced,” said Lacierda. (MNS)

Senators hail Pia Wurtzbach’s Miss Universe 2015 triumph MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – Pia Wurtzbach’s controversial win as Miss Universe 2015 drew mixed reactions even from senators who took to social media on Monday.

“Serious telenovela material! @PiaWurtzbach is #missuniverse2015 after the host first announced that she was the 1st runner-up,” Senator Pia Cayetano wrote on Twitter.

“Pinoys have such a sense of humor, congratulating me for @ PiaWurtzbach’s win #missuniverse2015! We all stand proud with her,” Cayetano added.

“Siya kaya uli ang host next year (Will he be the host next year)?” Senator Sonny Angara

said in another tweet, apparently referring to host Steve Harvey, who made a mistake when he first announced that Miss Colombia Ariadna Gutierrez was the new Miss Universe, and Wurtzbach was first runner-up.

Harvey later apologized and corrected himself that Wurtzbach was the real winner and Miss Colombia was the first runner up.

Meanwhile, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, also took to Twitter to congratulate Wurtzbach.

“Congrats to Pia-Miss Universe 2015! Its a proud day for the Philippines & the Filipino! I

admire her beauty, grace & humility,” Escudero said.

Senator Grace Poe, in a statement, said Wurtzbach’s “story of resilience and perseverance is the story of all Filipinos.”

“Our warmest congratulations to the Philippines’ own, Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach,” Poe said.

“Her story of resilience and perseverance is the story of all Filipinos. She inspires with her grace and compassion for others. The Filipino heart indeed shone through! What a wonderful Christmas gift to us. It will bring many of us some much needed Christmas cheer,” she added. (MNS)

Mar taunts Rody: Ang lider ng ating bansa, hindi umuurong

LEYTE, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – Liberal Party (LP) standard bearer Mar Roxas is far from done with his tirades against fellow presidential candidate, Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte.

In his visit to Baybay, Leyte Sunday, Roxas taunted Duterte for “backing out” from his challenge of settling their feud through a debate, fistfight or a slapping match.

“Hamon sa sampalan, umurong; hamon sa suntukan, umurong; hamon sa debate, umurong.

Ang lider ng ating bansa hindi umuurong sa hamon, hinaharap ito,” Roxas insisted.

Roxas’ criticism of the peace and order in Davao sparked a

bitter word war with Duterte.

The seven-term mayor has accused Roxas of falsely claiming that he is a graduate of the prestigious Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

What followed was a mutual challenge to slap each other if one of them was proven wrong.

Roxas also dared Duterte to a fistfight and debate.

In the interview, Roxas stressed that he was able to disprove Duterte’s accusation regarding his academic credentials. The administration’s bet said the Wharton School itself confirmed that he finished his undergraduate degree of Bachelor of Science in Economics, major in Finance from the school

in 1979.

Roxas also challenged Duterte anew to a debate, saying they must discuss their plans as presidential aspirants.

“This is not about you or me, Digong. Level up please... Tungkol ito sa buhay, kinabukasan ng ating mga kababayan. Hindi tama na dadaanin na lang ito [sa] mga patutsada, sa mga istilo na pasiga-siga na wala din naman, uurungan mo din naman,” he said.

Several personalities, including former President Fidel Ramos, earlier reminded the candidates that subscribing to petty measures like the threats of violence will not resolve the country’s problems. (MNS)

Cabinet vows to work on reforms despite low SWS satisfaction rating MANILA, Dec 21 (Mabuhay) – President Benigno Aquino III’s Cabinet will continue to push for reforms despite receiving a lower satisfaction rating this quarter, according to the latest Social Weather Stations (SWS) poll.

Aquino’s Cabinet, as a whole, got a satisfaction rating of 38 percent (from 40 percent in the third quarter) based on the December 5 to 8 survey of SWS. The same survey, conducted among 1,200 adults, also showed that 27 percent (from only 23 percent in September) said that they were dissatisfied with the Cabinet while 32 percent (from 34 percent last quarter) were

undecided.

This resulted in a net satisfaction of +11 for December, from +16 in September.

“We note the latest Social Weather Station (SWS) survey on Public Satisfaction with top government officials and top government institutions which show that the satisfaction rating for the Cabinet as a whole remained “moderate” with 38% of respondents Satisfied, 32% Undecided and 27 dissatisfied for a net satisfaction rating of +11,” Communications Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. said in a statement. “While we value the insights provided by public

opinion surveys such as those by the SWS, the entire Cabinet remains steadfast in its commitment to fulfill our respective mandates and to deliver on the priority reform and development programs anchored on inclusive growth,” he added.

The Cabinet, compared to the Senate, House of Representatives and Supreme Court, has historically received lower satisfaction ratings.

The Cabinet, which reports directly to Aquino, is composed of the heads of the departments of various executive branches, as well as offices under the Office of the President.(MNS)

‘Our queen still Miss Universe’: Colombian president Bogota, Colombia | AFP | Monday 12/21/2015 – Colombia’s president said Monday he was shocked when Miss Colombia won and then immediately lost the Miss Universe crown, and said as far as he was concerned she remained the winner.

“I was watching Miss Universe with my family. We started a huge celebration when they said Colombia had won the Miss Universe title for the second straight year,” President Juan Manuel Santos told Radio Nacional.

“To me, our queen is and will remain Miss Universe. They put the crown on her head. The photos are there to prove it. To me, as a Colombian, she is still Miss Universe.”

Santos was among the millions of people watching the pageant on TV Sunday when the host, American comedian Steve Harvey, misread his cue card and announced that Miss Co-

lombia, Ariadna Gutierrez, had won the title.

As the beaming, newly crowned queen blew kisses to her fans, Harvey was forced to admit he had goofed.

He apologized, said that Gutierrez was in fact the first runner-up and named the winner as Miss Philippines, Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach.

Santos called the incident “shocking.”

“Our queen was marvelous.

She looked spectacular. It was such a disappointment when the

host said he’d made a mistake,” he said.

Santos had publicly celebrated a year ago when the previous Miss Colombia, Paulina Vega Dieppa, won the Miss Universe 2014 title.

Sunday night’s mix-up sparked a flurry of outraged comments on social media in Colombia, and made the front page of the main newspapers.

“Colombia was Miss Universe for two minutes,” said El Tiempo daily. “Uncrowned,” said El Espectador.

THE US ASIAN POST Wednesday - Tuesday, December 23 - 29, 2015

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5

‘Fat but fit’ is not good for health, according to new study Monday December 21 2015 (Relaxnews) – A new Swedish study has dismissed the idea that ‘fat but fit’ is ok, finding instead that obese men with a high aerobic fitness level were still at a higher risk of death than those of a normal weight but with a lower fitness level.

Aerobic fitness level and obesity have been well studied in older participants, but less so in older adolescents. Wanting to look at a link between aerobic fitness in late adolescence and risk of early death, the team of researchers from Umeå University, Sweden followed 1,317,713 men with a mean age of 18 between 1969 and 1996.

The team also looked to see if risk of early death was linked to the level of aerobic fitness in those

that are obese, as well as those of normal weight.

The team of researchers assessed participants’ aerobic fitness by asking them to cycle until they had to stop due to fatigue, and assessed causes of death using national registers.

During a mean followup period of 29 years, the results showed that increased aerobic fitness was linked to a decreased risk of early death, with men in the highest fifth of aerobic fitness showing a 48% lower risk of death from any cause compared with those in the lowest fifth of aerobic fitness.

However, although aerobic fitness was also associated with a reduced risk of death from any cause in both normal-weight and overweight individuals, these benefits were

reduced in obese individuals.

In addition, men with a normal weight had a lower risk of death than obese participants even if their fitness levels were lower, showing a 30% lower risk of early death.

There were also no significant health benefits at all in those participants who were in the extreme obese category.

The study was published in the International Journal of Epidemiology.

A study published earlier this year by a team from the University of Cambridge also found that although a brisk 20-minute walk each day could lead to considerable health benefits, these benefits were mainly seen in subjects of normal weight, not obese participants.

A new Swedish study has dismissed the concept that ‘fat but fit’ is ok, finding instead that obese men with a high aerobic fitness level have a higher risk of death than those of a normal weight but with a lower fitness level.©Monkey Business Images/shutterstock.com

For an average of 12 years the team looked at 334,161 European men and women measuring height, weight and waist

circumference.

Participants were also asked to report levels of physical activity. The results, published in The Ameri-

can Journal of Clinical Nutrition, found that as body mass index (BMI) increased, the benefits of the walking decreased.

in addition to medication in an in-patient setting where the patient’s diet could be controlled.”

And if the research is applied to humans, it may have secondary benefits in addition to treating schizophrenia. “It’s another advantage that it works against the weight gain, cardiovascular issues and type-two diabetes we see as common side-effects of drugs given to control schizophrenia,” said Dr. Sarnyai.

The team is now going to research the diet further, with the possibility of a clinical trial.

Schizophrenia is a chronic and disabling mental illness that, according to the National Institute of Mental Health, affects 1.1% of the U.S. population.

Medications are available to treat and manage the disorder, but can come with unpleasant side effects, and there is currently no known cure.

Research published earlier this year found that omega-3, the fatty acid found in food such as oily fish, as well as other highfat foods such as walnuts, may help to prevent the onset of schizophrenia and other psychotic disorders.

High fat/low carb diet could help treat schizophrenia Monday December 21 2015 (Relaxnews) – A team of Australian researchers have found that a high fat/ low carb ketogenic diet, as favored by body-builders, may be effective in treating schizophrenia.

The ketogenic diet, which is high in fat and low in carbs, has most recently become popular with bodybuilders for weight loss; however, it has been used since the 1920s to manage epilepsy in children.

A team from James Cook University, Australia have now investigated the diet for its possible effectiveness in treating and

managing schizophrenia.

The results of their study, published in the journal Schizophrenia Research, showed that feeding mice a ketogenic diet led to fewer animal behaviors that resemble schizophrenia. The mice also weighed less and had lower blood glucose levels than mice fed a normal diet.The team believes that the diet may be effective because a ketogenic diet provides an alternative energy source for the brain, which could help neurotransmission and improve the neurobiological processes that underlie schizophrenia.

Lead author of the study, Zoltan Sarnyai, commented on the results saying that a “Ketogenic diet provides an alternative source of energy to the brain through fatty acids.

Furthermore, since this diet is very low in carbohydrates, almost all the energy needs of the cells comes from breaking down fat (fatty acids) as opposed to glucose. This can circumvent the classic glucose metabolic pathways that maybe impaired in the disease.”

In addition, the diet could increase levels of the brain chemical GABA,

with low levels known to be a factor in various anxiety disorders, and possibly also an underlying factor in schizophrenia. Increased levels of GABA could also help to normalize the symptoms of schizophrenia, and is something that Professor Sarnyai is keen to investigate further.

A ketogenic diet for humans would consist of high-fat food sources such as butter, cheese, salmon, so most of the person’s energy would come from fat.

If prescribed to a patient, Professor Sarnyai said, “Initially it would be used

This could be my greatest honor yet.

Tony Taguba, AARP Member Retired US Army Major General

Dahil sa Life Reimagined program ng AARP, masayang nagagamit ni Tony ang karanasan niya sa buhay para magbigay lakas, at mapabuti ang buhay ng iba.

Si Retired Army Major General Tony Taguba ay nakatanggap ng iba’t-ibang karangalan recognizing his distinguished military achievements, tireless advocacy for veterans and continuous contribution to the community. Bilang isang masugid na miyembro ng AARP ng ilang taon, si Tony ay isang natural na mentor. Natuklasan niya na ang kanyang personal experience ay importante at makakatulong sa iba. Today, he finds great fulfillment bringing his skills and experience to people going through transition in their work, relationships or self-definition. Through AARP and the Life Reimagined program, ikaw, ako at si Tony ay makakahanap ng mga paraan para muling matuklasan ang ating layunin sa buhay, explore more possibilities, share learnings, and benefit through the experiences of others. To find out what AARP has to offer, visit aarp.org/aapi or call 1-866-805-1986 today.

AARP is a non-profit organization committed to enhancing your life at 50-plus by providing trusted and useful resources to help you stay active, engaged and vibrant.

Caregiving • Health & Wellness • Fraud Prevention • Volunteer • Life Reimagined

6

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KITCHENOMICS FAMILY FEATURES

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INMENT

Vic Sotto talks about upcoming Japanese actress Maria Ozawa said she enjoyed doing her first movie in the Philippines wedding with Pauleen Luna Ozawa is part of the view, also shared her ex-

Vic Sotto has confirmed that his January 2016 wedding with girlfriend Pauleen Luna will be aired on GMA noontime variety program “Eat Bulaga.”

“Kung itatanong ninyo kung kailan, kung saan, basta manood lang kayo ng ‘Eat Bulaga’ at doon ninyo lahat malalaman,” he said.

Sotto said Luna is on top of all the wedding preparations but he still has inputs on what is going to happen next month.

“Si Pauleen ang nakatutok doon (sa wedding).

Kanya kanya kami ng trabaho e. Ako dito sa pelikula at siya naman doon sa sarili naming pelikula.

Lahat naman ay may approval, lahat dumadaan sa akin,” he said.

Asked what finally made him decide to settle down, the 61-year-old said it all boils down to right timing.

“Tamang panahon. Dumarating sa buhay ng tao na you find the right woman at the right time, at the right moment, yun na siguro ang sinasabi ng Aldub

Vic Sotto

na sa tamang panahon,” he said.

Sotto said nothing will change after the wedding, especially in Luna’s career.

He said they haven’t discussed if she wants to be a stay at home wife but he knows the actress would like to have a career of her own.

“Walang magbabago siguro less lang kasi magbabago na din yung priorities niya sa buhay. It will

really depend on her kasi hindi naman din pwede na ganun ka ka-busy kasi meron ka na din namang bagong responsibilidad,” Sotto said.

“Nasa dugo na niya yung showbiz, ang pagiging artista and hindi ko naman siya pipigilan.”

As for having kids, Sotto said: “We’ll just wait for that blessing. In God’s time.”

Sotto is just thankful for all the blessings, especially now that he will enter a new chapter in his life.

“God is good. It has been going good for everyone, hindi lang naman ako, but for the family, my friends.

Basta gumagawa ka ng mabuti, maraming mabuting mangyayari sa iyo,” he said.

Sotto, together with Alden Richards, Maine Mendoza and Comedy Queen Ai-Ai delas Alas, will topbill the Metro Manila Film Festival entry “My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More!” opening on Christmas Day, December 25. (MNS)

Jennylyn Mercado not pressured to win back-to-back MMFF trophies Jennylyn Mercado does not feel the pressure to take home the best actress trophy in the Metro Manila Film Festival for the second straight year.

“Ayokong isipin yun kasi nung nakaraan e wala din namang pressure at wala din akong expectations. Sa akin, ginawa ko lang yung trabaho ko. Pinaganda ko siya at binigay ko yung lahat,” said Mercado, who won the award for hit romantic comedy “English Only, Please” in 2014.

“Ayoko na may pressure e. Ever since nagsimula ako sa industriyang ito ay hindi ko binigyan yung sarili ko ng pressure at never akong nakipag compete. Nakikipag compete ako sa sarili ko pero hindi sa iba,” she added.

On December 25, the GMA talent will headline drama comedy movie “Walang Forever” opposite Jericho Rosales and under the direction of Dan Villegas.

Mercado said that even though “English Only, Please” and “Walang Forever” have the same producers and director, the upcoming flick promises to

Jennylyn Mercado

be different and will cater to all ages.

“Walang Forever” tells the story of Ethan, played

by Rosales, a Taiwanbased website developer who falls in love with Mia (Mercado), an accomplished and well-known romantic-comedy writer.

The actress described her character as reserved and guarded unlike her prior roles.

“Mas stiff, mas seryoso sa buhay at makikita mo doon sa character na mas nag-iisip siya kesa sa nagsasalita, which is mas mahirap for me kasi pag ta-

himik ka hindi wala ka na dapat na maramdaman.

Dapat maramdaman at makita ng tao yung pakiramdam ko,” she said.

Mercado said that even though it’s a feel-good movie, the characters and plot have depth.

Mercado is also thankful that Quantum Films, MJM Productions, Tuko Films and Buchi Boy Productions tapped her once again for another MMFF movie and gave her a chance to work with Rosales.

“First time ko to work with him and na-appreciate ko siya kasi napakabait pala niyang tao,” she said.

“Masaya siyang katrabaho kasi sobrang galing siya. May mga times naman talaga na hindi ka kondisyon pero mararamdaman mo yung suporta niya.

Tutulungan ka niya talaga at pag magaling ang ka-eksena mo e parang madadala ka na din.”

Joining them in the movie are Jerald Napoles, Cai Cortez, Nico Antonio and Lorna Tolentino.

(MNS)

Maine Mendoza speaks up about showbiz success Maine Mendoza is still not used to public attention amid the overwhelming success of her onscreen team-up with Alden Richards.

Five months after her television debut on Eat Bulaga’s Kalyeserye, the 20-year-old is now a household name.

She is seen in billboards along Edsa, graced numerous commercials and will be featured soon on the big screen via “My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More!” one of the official entries in this year’s Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF).

But the other half of “AlDub” said she does not let success get into her head.

“Hindi ko siya iniisip at ayoko siyang isipin,” she said.

Mendoza said that the press conference alone was a nerve-racking experience for her.

“Kinakabahan talaga ako kasi first time ko ito and hindi talaga ako sanay na humarap talaga sa maraming tao. Feeling ko keri naman siya.

Nawawala na yung kaba ko kasi andito naman si Alden,” she said.

She also shared that a career in television is

Maine Mendoza

something she dreamt of but never thought happening.

“Honestly hindi pa rin ako makapaniwala. Lahat ng nangyayari ngayon ay hindi pa nag sink in sa akin. Sobrang surreal lang niya sa akin kasi sobrang bilis ng mga pangyayari, yung mga blessings na sina-shower sa akin, kay Alden at sa Aldub. Sobrang thankful ako. Nagpapasalamat ako sa lahat ng nangyayari,” Mendoza said.

Even her first big screen project with seasoned comedians Ai-Ai delas Alas and Vic Sotto is still an unbelievable experience for her.

She said the project it-

self is a dream came true.

“Masaya po ako kasi first time ko po ito and I get to work po with Bosing and Ms. Ai and si Alden na din. Happy ako kasi tinutulungan talaga nila ako,” she said.

“Honestly, na-intimidate po ako nung una kay Bosing pero okay naman po kasi tinulungan niya ako, inalalayan niya ako kasi siya yung tatay ko sa movie kaya naging comfortable ako sa kanya.”

As for her closeness with Richards, Mendoza said they are not in a hurry to bring their relationship to the next level.

“Ngayon mas nakikilala pa namin ang isa’t isa. Right now very good friends kami. Walang halong ka-showbiz-an yan, good friends kami,” she said.

“My Bebe Love: Kilig Pa More!” premieres December 25, Christmas Day. (MNS)

Mag

Tayo!

Metro Manila Film Festival entry “Nilalang”, which also stars Cesar Montano and Meg Imperial.

Comparing her experience in doing movies in the Philippines and Japan, she said: “Everything was new to me, totally different from Japan, from what I’ve experienced. And I love it here, [it’s] way better than Japan... So much fun.”

“I tried martial arts, ninja works and all the gun shooting, which is so much fun. Yes, action was really fun,” she added.

Ozawa went on to encourage Filipinos to watch “Nilalang” on December 25. “Everything is super fantastic—the action

Maria Ozawa

scenes and the horror and suspense, everything is in this movie. So just please go and watch it,” she said.

She also praised her costar, Montano, describing him as “gentleman-type” and “nice.”

Imperial, who was with Ozawa during the inter-

citement for her latest movie project.

“Yes, excited kami at pinaghirapan namin ‘yung film. And to think na bago sa amin ito, sobrang bago ‘yung ginawa namin dito,” she said.

“Nilalang” made headlines when actor Robin Padilla backed out of the movie to focus on taking care of his wife, Mariel Rodriguez, who was then experiencing a delicate pregnancy. Days after his exit from the project, Padilla and Rodriguez lost their triplets to miscarriage.

The film was initially cancelled but was revived when Montano signed to take over Padilla’s role.

(MNS)

‘My Bebe Love” ‘goes to Cebu and Davao

Christmas came early for Cebuanos and Davaoeños as the cast of the Metro Manila Film Festival entry “My Bebe Love: #KiligPaMore” visited the region for the movie’s promo tour.

The romantic comedy stars Vic Sotto and AiAi Delas Alas, together with Alden Richards and Maine “Yaya Dub” Mendoza.

“My Bebe Love” is AlDub’s first-ever film together, following the unprecedented success of the phenomenal love team in Eat Bulaga’s Kalyeserye. As early as now, the movie is being predicted to be a smash hit, with the tandem of the Box Office King and the Comedy Queen leading the story about Vito (Vic) and Cora (Ai-Ai)—business rivals

who will find the conflict between them brewing further as Anna (Maine) and Dondi (Alden) become romantically involved.

Anna is the daughter of Vito while Dondi is Cora’s nephew.

Both Vic and Ai-Ai have ruled the box office through various films they have previously starred in. AlDub, on the other hand, has taken the world by storm with the love team becoming a regular trending topic on social media. Just over the weekend, AlDub dominated Twitterverse once more as the phenomenal love team guested on various Kapuso shows. The #AlDubonSPS trended in the Philippines and worldwide after Maine guested for the first time on Sunday Pina-

saya, where in Alden is one of the hosts. Later on, AlDub joined Bossing in the latter’s primetime comedy sitcom, Vampire ang Daddy Ko, making the hashtag #AlDubonVDK trend both in the Philippines and all over the world. AlDub’s muchawaited interview with well-respected broadcast journalist Jessica Soho aired afterVampire ang Daddy Ko. The hashtag #KMJSAlDubYou dominated social media. It topped the Philippines and worldwide trends as well. The Kapuso pair was also featured on GMA News TV’s Reel Time that night with the hashtag #AdubonReelTime becoming one of the trending topics on Twitter as well.

8

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PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short GLDORJXH ZDQW WR WKDQN <RX IRU HYHU\WKLQJ DQG FRQÂżUP RQFH PRUH WKDW , QHYHU want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After WKH UG GD\ WKH ZLVK ZLOO EH JUDQWHG QR PDWWHU KRZ GLá&#x201A;&#x2C6;FXOW LW PD\ EH 3URPLVH to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted. Danica

PRAYERS PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short GLDORJXH ZDQW WR WKDQN <RX IRU HYHU\WKLQJ DQG FRQÂżUP RQFH PRUH WKDW , QHYHU want to be separated from You no matter how great the material desires may be. I want to be with You and my loved ones in Your perpetual glory. Amen. A person must pray this for three consecutive days without stating his wish. After WKH UG GD\ WKH ZLVK ZLOO EH JUDQWHG QR PDWWHU KRZ GLá&#x201A;&#x2C6;FXOW LW PD\ EH 3URPLVH to publish this as soon as your favor has been granted. Cecille

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UTREACH

Pechanga breaks ground on $285-M resort expansion Project ushers in thousands of construction and hotel/casino jobs Pechanga breaks ground on $285-M resort expansion, ushers in thousands of construction & hotel/casino jobs PECHANGA INDIAN RESERVATION, Calif.

– (Dec. 16, 2015) – The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians held a ceremonial ground breaking today on its much anticipated $285 million resort expansion.

Tribal officials gathered around a circular mound of dirt near the property’s hotel entrance and sunk their gold-gilded shovels into the ground as Tribal Members, local officials, the media and resort management looked on and cheered. When completed in approximately two years, the Pechanga Resort & Casino will more than double the size of its resort amenities, and add more than 3,500 jobs to the region.

“Today, with the Eagle IV Expansion, we celebrate the beginning of the next chapter of Pechanga Resort & Casino and our history,” said Tribal Chairman, Mark Macarro. “This development will build upon the quality and reputation of the original resort and continue our Tribe’s entrepreneurial spirit for future generations. We are grateful and proud as a Tribe to be in a position to strengthen tourism in the Temecula Valley and Southern California with this project.”

The project involves adding a new, AAA Four Diamond, 568-room and suite hotel wing; a stand-alone luxury two-story spa and salon with 17 treatment rooms, a fitness center and

hydrotherapy pool terrace; a resort-style pool complex with eight pool areas; two new restaurants; and an additional 67,000 square feet of event space. TutorPerini, the project’s builder, estimates the expansion to be completed in 24 months. Pechanga officials say guests and the public will be notified when the new resort areas (hotel, spa, pool, restaurants) will begin taking advance reservations.

“We estimate the expansion will result in an economic output of over $550 million, generating roughly 2,944 jobs up front as a result of construction-related activities,” said Dr. Christopher Thornberg, Founding Partner of Beacon Economics. “We estimate the local economy will benefit from an additional 560 jobs per year going forward as a result of expanded operations at Pechanga Resort & Casino.” A 2014 study by the Rose Institute of State and Local Government at Claremont McKenna College found the combined economic impact of Pechanga tribal and resort activities resulted in the direct employment of 5,257 people, making the tribe one Pechanga breaks ground on $285-M resort expansion, ushers in thousands of construction & hotel/casino jobs of the 10 largest employers in the Inland Empire region of Southern California. Pechanga has also committed nearly $20 million to mitigate the effects of the expansion on the surrounding south Temecula area.

A recent agreement reached with the City of Temecula provides funds for a new Temecula Parkway off ramp, widening of Pechanga Parkway, and annual payment of an additional city police officer.

“We are completely committed to making Pechanga Resort & Casino a worldclass resort destination,” said Patrick Murphy, President of the Pechanga Development Corporation. “We have consistently provided our guests with excellent quality and customer service, and now we’re making their experience even better. We’ve brought in some of the best designers, architects and builders who have worked with other iconic properties to create stunning resort features. We are very excited for the future.”

The design team is led

by Delawie architects, the original designers of the Pechanga Resort & Casino when it was built in 2002.

Lifescapes International has been selected as the pool area and landscape architects. Over the past five decades, the fi rm has designed iconic landscapes at world-class resorts including the Bellagio, Wynn, and Venetian hotels. CLEO Design out of Las Vegas and Los Angeles-based KNA Design will be leading the interior designs.

Pechanga Expansion Has an Economic Output of over $550 million • Nearly 3,000 jobs up front from constructionrelated activities • 560 total new jobs going forward from expanded operations Local Improvements Fund-

Achievements of young Fil-Ams cited in Dr. Jose Rizal Youth Awards WASHINGTON, DC – Thirteen young, outstanding Filipino-Americans were recognized for their academic excellence and community service during the Dr. Jose Rizal Youth Awards on 17 December 2015 at the Romulo Hall of the Philippine Embassy.

Now on its 23rd year, the annual award recognizes students from the elementary, high school, and undergraduate levels in the Metropolitan Washington, DC area who epitomize the values of the Philippine National Hero.

This year’s awardees were the following (grade levels during AY 20142015): Trina Sophia LaFortune – 3rd grade, Holy Spirit School Rebecca Verba Honigford – 4th grade, Our Lady of Good Counsel School Gerard Gonzaga – 6th grade, J. Michael Lunsford Middle School Regina Verba Honigford – 6th grade, Our Lady of Good Counsel School Arianne Arizala – 7th grade, Redland Middle School Adeline Christelle Baban – 8th grade, St. John Academy Justin Francis T. Bustamante – 8th grade, St. Peter’s School Janelle Gonzaga – 9th grade, Freedom High School Nicholas T. Mañalac – 9th grade, Fairfax High School Jed Paolo Dela Torre – 10th grade, Benjamin Banneker High School Joseph Brandon B. Gopiao – 10th grade, Lake Braddock Secondary School Allan James Phillips – 11th grade, Oakton High School Jennifer Marie R. Palo – graduate level, Bowie State

Now on its 23rd year, the annual award recognizes students from the elementary, high school, and undergraduate levels in the Metropolitan Washington, DC area who epitomize the values of the Philippine National Hero.

University In his keynote address, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. talked about Rizal’s life and urged the awardees to continue learning more about the hero after whom the award is named.

“Jose Rizal’s accomplishments were never achieved before by a Filipino during that time. He realized his potential and he never allowed life’s hardships to stop him from serving his family, fellow men and country. His poem ‘To the Filipino Youth’ appeals to the youth of the past, the present and the future to realize their dreams and be the best that they can be in the service of the greater good,” said Ambassador Cuisia.

He added, “I strongly encourage all of you, especially as Rizal Youth Awardees, to learn more about our national hero by studying his life and reading his works.”

Col. Shirley S. Raguindin, Chief of NGB Diversity at the National Guard Bureau, offered inspirational words to the awardees.

In her address, she shared how she aimed high in her studies and career and shared a quote from 11 year old Nkosi Johnson from South Africa, encouraging the young individuals to make the most out of

what they have.

“Do what you can in the time that you have, in the place that you are,” said Col. Raguindin.

Three of the awardees shared essays they wrote which were used in the selection process.

Now a 5th grader, Rebecca Verba Honigford from Our Lady of Good Counsel School read her response to the question “If Dr. Jose Rizal could don his Batman suit, what do would be his first big task?”

Meanwhile, 7th grader Regina Verba Honigford responded to the question, “Can you describe how the Filipinos lived during Dr. Jose Rizal’s time?”

Nicholas T. Manalac, now in 11th grade at Fairfax High School answered the question, “Ever the man of peace, how would Dr. Jose Rizal resolve the issue of gun violence in the US?” Jenniber Marie Palo of Bowie State University read her essay on Rizal’s opposing views regarding the Katipunan.

Awardees and guests were also treated to a violin performance by the Baban Trio./ The Dr. Rizal Youth Awards is a joint project of the Philippine American Foundation for Charities, Inc. (PAFC) and the Embassy of the Philippines.

Pechanga Expansion Groundbreaking: The Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians together with local county, city officials and guests are all set for the groundbreaking ceremony to signal the construction of a $285 million project of the Pechanga Resort and Casino. The two-year construction will add 585 rooms, a twostorey spa and salon, a resort-style complex with eight pool areas two restaurants in a 67,000 square foot space in the popular resort.

ed by Pechanga as Result of Expansion • $5 million to widen Pechanga Parkway and improve local roads.

Over $9 million in funding for local law enforcement • $14 million contributed for Interstate 15/Temecula Parkway Ultimate Interchange Snapshot of Pechanga When Resort Expansion Is Complete: • Casino square footage: 200,000 • Event/meeting/convention square footage: 100,000 (indoor) 174,500 (outdoor) • Number of hotel rooms: 1090 • Number of restaurants:

13

• Number of pools: 13 • Number of employees: 4,560 About Pechanga Resort & Casino Pechanga Resort & Casino offers one of the largest and most expansive resort/casino experiences anywhere in the United States. Voted the Number One casino in America by readers of USA TODAY and rated a Four Diamond property by AAA since 2002, Pechanga Resort & Casino provides an unparalleled getaway.

Offering more than 3,400 of the hottest slots, table games, world-class entertainment, 517 hotel rooms,

dining, spa and championship golf at Journey at Pechanga, Pechanga Resort & Casino features a destination that meets and exceeds the needs of its guests and the community.

Pechanga Resort & Casino is owned and operated by the Pechanga Band of Luiseño Indians. For more information, call toll free 1-888-PECHANGA or visit www. Pechanga.com. Follow Pechanga Resort & Casino on Facebook and on Twitter @PechangaCasino.

Pechanga Resort & Casino is open 24-hours. Guests must be 21 and older to enter the casino.

10

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‘Star Wars’ sets N. America opening weekend record with $238-M Los Angeles, United States | AFP | Sunday 12/20/2015 – “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” set a record for the highestgrossing opening weekend at the US and Canadian box office with an estimated $238 million in sales, Walt Disney studios said Sunday.

The figure shatters the previous record set by “Jurassic World” earlier this year when it premiered to $208.8 million.

Globally, the latest “Star Wars” space epic raked in an estimated $517 million, Disney said, breaking records for biggest opening weekend abroad in 18 other countries, including Russia and Germany, and second biggest across four nations.

The worldwide figure puts the film in second place behind “Jurassic World,” which earned

$524.9 million globally in its first weekend.

The highly anticipated “Force Awakens” has blazed a record-setting trail since its domestic debut Thursday, taking the prize for highest-grossing domestic opening night with $57 million and biggest domestic single-day sales Friday with $120.5 million.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2,” previously held both records at $43.5 million for an opening night and $91 million for a first day.

‘Mind-blowing’ ticket sales Analysts had long predicted that the seventh instalment of the space saga, which cost Disney an estimated $200 million to produce, could score the biggest opening weekend ever and could even become the biggest film of all time.

Canada’s first transgender judge breaks a ‘glass ceiling’ Ottawa, Canada | AFP | Saturday 12/19/2015 – A transgender magistrate was named this week to the Manitoba provincial court, becoming the first transgender judge in Canada.

Kael McKenzie, a lawyer and then a crown prosecutor in Winnipeg, the capital of Manitoba, was named late in the week by an independent judicial nominating committee.

The daily newspaper The Globe and Mail reported that McKenzie thus became the first openly transgender judge in Canada and the third in North America, following judges in California and Texas.

The newest member of the trio called the nomination an important step forward.

“For my community, I think it means a lot,” McKenzie told the public CBC News network.

“I think it means we’ve hit that glass ceiling and broke through it.”

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Tayo!

One of them, longtime movie analyst Paul Dergarabedian, called the staggering box office numbers “mind-blowing.”

As far as all-time box office sales, two films by James Cameron hold the record – “Avatar” ($2.78 billion) and “Titanic” ($2.18).

“The Force Awakens” picks up the intergalactic story of good versus evil 30 years on from “The Return of the Jedi,” the last episode of the original trilogy.

The trio of heroes who appeared in the first of the blockbusters in 1977 – smuggler Han Solo (Harrison Ford), Princess Leia (Carrie Fisher), leader of the rebel alliance, and her twin brother Luke Skywalker (Mark Hamill) -- are all back and played by the actors that “Star Wars” first made famous.

“Our sole focus has been creating a film that deliv-

ers that one-of-a-kind Star Wars experience,” Alan Horn, chairman of Walt Disney Studios said in a statement Sunday.

The film is being screened in 4,134 theaters in the United States and Canada, according to industry tracker Rentrak.

From New York to Los Angeles, theaters were packed with many spectators buying their tickets more than a week in advance. In New York, some of the city’s larger theaters were playing the film every hour, beginning at 6:00 am. “The Force Awakens” has now been released in nearly every market worldwide except Greece, where it will come out Thursday and China where it hits screens January 9.

“To all of the fans around the world who not only came out in Force to make this such an exciting

and astronomical debut but who treated this film as their own and helped preserve the experience for their fellow fans by not spoiling it—thank you,” Horn said.

Other debuts dwarfed Also debuting at the box office in the top ten this weekend were four other films, whose numbers seemed miniscule compared to the “Star Wars” hauling.

The animated “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Road Chip,” came in second place in its first weekend, with an estimated $14.4 million across 3,653 screens, according to box office tracker Exhibitor Relations.

Landing in third and also in its debut weekend was “Sisters,” starring Tina Fey and Amy Poehler as two siblings throwing one last party in their childhood home before it is

sold. It earned only $13.4 million.

“The Hunger Games: Mockingjay—Part 2,” the fourth and last movie in the blockbuster franchise that turned Jennifer Lawrence into a Hollywood megastar, earned $5.7 million, falling to fourth place in its fifth week in theaters.

Meanwhile “Creed,” a next-generation version of the “Rocky” series earned some $5.1 million to land in fifth, in its fourth week on the big screen.

Estimates for the rest of the top 10 were as follows: 6.

“The Good Dinosaur” ($4.2 million) 7.

“Krampus” ($4.0 million) 8.

“In the Heart of the Sea” ($3.5 million) 9.

“Dilwale” ($2.0 million—debut weekend) 10. “Bajirao Mastani” ($1.8 million—debut weekend)

Fed agent pleads guilty to taking bribes from Korean exec being investigated for human trafficking LOS ANGELES – A former special agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) pleaded guilty this afternoon to accepting thousands of dollars in bribes from a man who had been accused of trafficking a woman into the United States to be a sex slave.

Joohoon David Lee, 43, who currently resides in Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty to one count of bribery before United States District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald.

“Corrupt officials who abuse their positions of power to line their pockets compromise our entire system of government,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “In

this case, a federal law enforcement officer thwarted justice in exchange for just a few thousand dollars and hindered the ability of a possible trafficking victim to seek justice.”

Lee accepted money from a Korean man identified in court documents at “H.S.” According to a plea agreement filed in this case, Lee, who was assigned to HSI’s Human Trafficking unit in Los Angeles, interviewed a woman in March 2012 who claimed that she was entering the United States to be a slave for a Korean businessman named H.S. About a year later, according to the plea agreement, Lee met with an attorney representing H.S. and told the lawyer that Lee could fly to Korean,

interview H.S. and submit a favorable report – if H.S. would finance the trip.

H.S. agreed, and Lee accepted $3,000 in cash.

Approximately 10 days after receiving the money, Lee travelled to Seoul, where H.S. paid for Lee’s hotel and entertainment expenses. While in Korea, Lee asked for “a large sum of money, “according to the plea agreement, in which Lee admits accepting between $6,000 and $7,000.”

Upon returning to the United States, Lee prepared a report related to the investigation of H.S. that read: “Subject was suspected of human trafficking. No evidence found and victim statement contradicts. Case closed. No further action required.”

“There will be zero tol-

erance for public officials who abuse their authority and violate the public’s trust,” said Joe Jeronimo, special agent in charge for ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility. “Guarding against illegal or unethical behavior by those in positions of public trust is not an option – it is an obligation we have to the people we serve. ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigation in this case and we’ll continue to hold our employees to the highest standards of professional conduct.”

Lee is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Fitzgerald on May 23, at which time he faces a statutory maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.

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MOTORING BMW to premiere latest performance model vehicles at US International Auto Show December 18 2015 (Relaxnews) – The German car manufacturer has chosen the North American International Auto Show to showcase the new BMW M2 and BMW X4 M40i models.

Although the BMW group has already revealed photographs of its

two performance models, the NAIAS show will set the scene for the models first appearance to the public.

Characteristics of the BMW M2 Coupe include an engine output of up to 370hp, making it a top high-performance compact sports vehicle, accelerat-

ing to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds. In addition, the BMW X4 M40i has set the benchmark in outstanding driving dynamics with 360hp engine output and an acceleration time of 4.9 seconds to reach 100km/h.

The NAIAS will take place in Detroit from January 11 to 24.

Toyota’s crowning achievement: The defining vehicle of 2015 Monday December 21 2015 (Relaxnews) – From the Audi R8 to the Jaguar XE, some spectacular cars made their debut in 2015.

But in terms of offering a glimpse into the future and of making a statement of intent about personal mobility in an increasingly connected age, only one vehicle can really be considered the defining vehicle of 2015.

And that car is the Toyota Crown, a rather unassuming and indistinct sedan and one no longer readily available outside Japan.

But what makes the Crown—which has been in production in some shape or form for 60 years— stand out against cars such as the fire-breathing Ferrari 488 Spider or the meticulously crafted RollsRoyce Dawn convertible is that the Crown is the world’s first production car that can communicate with its surroundings.

Thanks to vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) and vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V) communication, the Crown knows when a green light

is about to turn red, or vice versa, for better fuel economy. It also knows when an emergency vehicle is approaching, even before sirens can be heard.

And it can do all of this because it can tune into the ITS frequency used by cities in order to manage and monitor their roads and traffic flows. This frequency, when emitted by other Toyota Crowns, will also let cars automatically avoid each other, whether they’re in each other’s blind spots, advancing too quickly or parked or broken down around an obscured bend or at a junction.

“For highly automated driving to become reality, we need a certain level of connectivity,” explains Gerhard Steiger, president of the Bosch Chassis Systems Control division.

“Highly automated vehicles rely on environmental information—information that goes beyond what sensors can gather. For instance, they need real-time traffic data on congestion and accidents. This can be achieved only by connect-

ing the vehicle to a server.”

It’s why Bosch has developed its Connected Horizon platform for receiving this data and making use of it and why car companies around the world are currently working on systems with an aim to roll out some functionality in 2016. “By 2025, Bosch expects nearly every newly registered vehicle to be web-enabled and capable of exchanging data with other vehicles,” says Steiger.

However, Toyota has beaten everyone to the punch. The Crown went on sale in October and, by the end of 2015, when the first domestic deliveries of the new Prius are made, Japan will already have two fully connected cars on its highways and byways.

And as car-to-car and car-to-infrastructure are the first big step that the industry needs to take on the journey towards fully self-driving cars, the potential importance of the Toyota Crown, despite its less than exciting looks, should not be underestimated.

The new BMW M2 Coupé ©BMW Group

Mercedes proves autonomous trucks are child’s play Monday December 21 2015 (Relaxnews) – Two German children have just been driven into the record books by becoming the first pre-teens to travel in a selfdriving truck.

Junior reporters Emma Reinke (11) and Nick Hoffmann (10) got to travel in the Mercedes-Benz Actros with Highway Pilot as it traversed the A8 motorway between Denkendorf and Stuttgart Airport under

the watchful eye of Daimler engineer Enrico Wohlfarth.

Though not completely autonomous, once it has joined highway traffic, the Actros can take over driving responsibilities at the push of a button, automatically maintaining lane discipline and a safe distance from other road users. It can even cope with the startstop nature of congestion and can navigate safely to an exit where it’s time for a

human driver to take over.

The children were on board to interview Wohlfarth as part of Daimler’s education initiative, MINT, which looks to identify and nurture talent across all branches of science. Of his experience, Nick Hoffmann said it was all over too quickly: “I felt very safe, even though Enrico didn’t have his hands on the steering wheel at all.”

Honda Ridgeline looking to pick up attention in Detroit Monday December 21 2015 (Relaxnews) – Honda is debuting an all-new midsize pickup truck at January’s North American International Auto Show The fourth completely reimagined or refreshed light truck from the Japanese car maker within the last two years, Honda has very high hopes that Ridgline will make

a huge impact on the US market despite the immense competition in the segment from the likes of the Ford F 150 and Chevrolet Silverado.

“We developed this new Honda Ridgeline to offer something new and fundamentally better suited to the way many buyers use their truck,” said Jeff Conrad, senior vice president and gen-

eral manager of the Honda Division. “Ridgeline will deliver everything you’d expect in a Honda from incredible packaging and fuel-efficiency to top safety technologies and innovative, segment-first features. We’re honored to once again debut the Ridgeline in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show.”

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LOS ANGELES

Wednesday - Tuesday, December 23 - 29, 2015

SAN BERNARDINO

FED AGENT

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cording to the plea agreement, Lee met with an attorney representing H.S. and told the lawyer that Lee could fly to Korean, interview H.S. and submit a favorable report – if H.S. would finance the trip. H.S. agreed, and Lee accepted $3,000 in cash.

Approximately 10 days after receiving the money, Lee travelled to Seoul, where H.S. paid for Lee’s hotel and entertainment expenses.

While in Korea, Lee asked for “a large sum of money, “according to the plea agreement, in which

Lee admits accepting between $6,000 and $7,000.”

Upon returning to the United States, Lee prepared a report related to the investigation of H.S. that read: “Subject was suspected of human trafficking. No evidence found and victim statement contradicts. Case closed. No further action required.”

“There will be zero tolerance for public officials who abuse their authority and violate the public’s trust,” said Joe Jeronimo, special agent in charge for ICE’s Office of Professional Responsi-

bility. “Guarding against illegal or unethical behavior by those in positions of public trust is not an option – it is an obligation we have to the people we serve. ICE’s Office of Professional Responsibility conducted the investigation in this case and we’ll continue to hold our employees to the highest standards of professional conduct.”

Lee is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Fitzgerald on May 23, at which time he faces a statutory maximum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.

an adult—they wonder, they ask.

I am no different. I went through the same ordeal. I have been yearning to know.”

Poe noted that she had been in Iloilo several times and have met with relatives and family friends “in an earnest effort” to know the truth well before the issue of her being a foundling has been used against her qualifications for president.

“There are many theories and many stories, some of them jive, some are conflicting. With the help of Judge Rodriguez and his friends and my supporters here in my hometown, I really hope and pray that this time our search will be blessed with a positive out-

come,” she said.

“But I have also maintained that there is a higher purpose to this, which is to fight for the equal rights of children. This is not just my fight to remain in contention for the presidency. The state should not discriminate based on circumstances of one’s birth,” she said.

Poe said the government has a “parens patriae principlel” to act as the guardians of people who cannot effectively take care of themselves.

If children are abandoned or abused, she said, the state takes care of them and the children take the citizenship of the state that adopts them.

GRACE POE

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come from him and six golfing buddies and friends in Negros Occidental.

“I wish to thank Judge Jesus Nograles Rodriguez Jr. and all those who helped put up the reward money to help find my biological parents. I welcome their help and I pray that their wellmeaning efforts would lead to the truth we are all looking for,” Poe said in a statement.

“It is no secret that I have spent many years trying to find my biological parents. All foundlings want to know who their real parents are.

All foundlings go through a difficult process, growing up—as a child, as a teenager and even as

MISS UNIVERSE

Eileen M. Decker.

“Even though these plans were not carried out, Mr. Marquez’s criminal conduct deeply affected San Bernardino County, Southern California and the entire United States when the guns purchased by Marquez were used to kill 14 innocent people and wound many others.

While there currently is no evidence that Mr. Marquez participated in the December 2 attack or had advance knowledge of it, his prior purchase of the firearms and ongoing failure to warn authorities about Farook’s intent to commit mass murder had fatal consequences.

Today’s charges are the result of exceptional work by many prosecutors and law enforcement agencies, and I thank them for

their tremendous effort so far in this case.”

The affidavit in support of the complaint provides details into parts of the exhaustive and ongoing investigation into the attack on December 2 that killed 14 people at the Inland Regional Center (IRC).

The complaint does not allege that Marquez was involved in the December 2 terrorist attack at the IRC. The complaint does allege that Marquez purchased the AR-15style rifles used in the shooting, that Marquez purchased explosive material ultimately used to construct a pipe bomb found at the IRC, and that in 2011 and 2012 Marquez and Farook planned terrorist attacks in the Inland Empire that were not carried out.

MILITARY

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of 2017.

He praised the military for performing difficult duties, singling out the Marines manning an outpost in the South China Sea to defend the Philippines’ claims there.

Brunei, Malaysia, Vietnam and Taiwan also have partial claims but China asserts rights over almost all of the South China Sea. It has been accused of taking aggressive actions to stake its claim, such as converting tiny outcrops

or reefs into islands that can house military facilities.

The Philippines has been the most vocal in opposing China’s claims despite having one of the region’s weakest militaries.

As ties with China have soured, Aquino has stepped up efforts to strengthen the country’s defenses, by acquiring new weapons and improving defense ties with allies like the United States and Japan.

NONA DEATH

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Pia said she sees no problem in that, since Philippines and the US have enjoyed good relations, and the Philippines was once a colony of the US. The Philippines’ bet showed grace and poise in the swimsuit and evening gown competitions.

A post in the official Twitter account of Miss Universe said Pia was “a bombshell in blue” in her lovely gown.

Pia topped the online poll among viewers.

The Filipino-German beauty was born and raised in Stuttgart and raised in Cagayan de Oro. Among the more notable moments, Flora Coquerel of France, who was at the Paris stadium the night of the November attacks by militant Islamistss, reached the final five and Ariana Miyamoto

THE US ASIAN POST

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of Japan, whose father is AfricanAmerican, reached the top 10 contestants.

Miyamoto’s height of 1.73 m (5.7 ft) and bronze skin are unusual in Japan and her selection to represent Japan in the Miss Universe pageant created an online firestorm in her native country.

For the first time, viewers had a chance to vote on the winner, rating contestants in the swimwear, evening gown and interview competitions.

Until recently, the pageant was co-owned by Comcast Corp’s NBCUniversal and Trump, who is leading national polls in the 2016 Republican presidential nomination race.

Earlier, Trump’s remarks about Mexicans in announcing his

presidential candidacy in June drew sharp criticism, and the Spanish-language network Univision pulled out of a deal to televise the pageant.

Trump, who has sued Univision for $500 million, bought out NBC’s stake in the Miss Universe Organization, which produces both Sunday’s pageant and the Miss USA contest. He sold the company in September.

The panel of judges included former National Football League great Emmitt Smith, celebrity blog mogul Perez Hilton and 2012 Miss Universe winner Olivia Culpo. Hilton, a Miss USA judge, said the two most important things about the pageant were the vastly larger audience and that Trump was no longer owner. (MNS)

Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol and Central and Easetern Visayas in preparation for the onslaught of the typhoon. The NDRRMC said that Nona’s cost of damage to agriculture was more than P1.6 billion while damage to infrastructure was pegged at nearly P234 million. It said Nona’s strong winds and heavy rains damaged a total of 166,552 houses.

Meanwhile, Pama said that 2, 076 families or 9,984 people were preemptively evacuated in Surigao del Sur, Surigao del Norte, Agusan del Sur, Agusan del Norte, Dinagat Island, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, Lanao del Norte and Davao Oriental in preparation for Tropical Depression Onyok.

Onyok weakened into a low pressure area (LPA) after making

landfall over Manay, Davao Oriental on Friday night.

In its 11 a.m. advisory, weather bureau PAGASA said that the LPA that was formerly Onyok was estimated in the vicinity of Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

It said that the LPA and the tail-end of a cold front will bring moderate to heavy rains and thunderstorms over Caraga region, Central and Eastern Visayas and the provinces of Misamis Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Davao Oriental, Aurora and Quezon.

PAGASA said that heavy rains in these areas may cause flashfloods and landslides. It advised fishermen not to venture out into the northern, eastern and western seaboards of Luzon and the eastern seaboards of Visayas and Mindanao. (MNS)