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FVR QUITS AS SPECIAL ENVOY TO CHINA By Jelly F. Musico

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Secretary Martin Andanar on Monday said Malacañang has not yet received former President Fidel V. Ramos’ resignation as special envoy to China. ”We have not received PFVR’s resignation,” Andanar said in a press statement. Andanar also denied speculations that Ramos has no longer any role in the Duterte administration’s engagement with China on the issue of the South China Sea. ”His stature and expertise are needed now, more than ever, to follow up and bike on what Presi-

dent Duterte accomplished during his recent visit to China,” Andanar said. During his recent visit to China, President Rodrigo Duterte did not discuss the Permanent Court of Arbitration’s judgment but has See FVR QUITS, page 12

Soon-to-arrive BRP Andres Bonifacio to beef up PHL capability in conducting ‘territorial patrols

Former President Fidel V. Ramos (left), who supported his protegé and now President Rodrigo Duterte when he ran for the top post, has reportedly quit as special envoy to China.

DFA reports no Pinoy casualties in 6.6 quake that struck Italy By Sammy F. Martin

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) on Monday said there are no confirmed Filipino casualties in the intensity 6.6 earthquake that struck northeast of Rome October 30, Sunday. Outgoing DFA spokesman and newly appointed Ambassador to Malaysia Charles Jose said that based on reports made by Philippine Ambassador to Rome Domingo Nolasco. The DFA said our Embassy in Rome are now providing all the necessary assistance to the Filipi-

no nationals who were affected by earthquake. “Our Embassy continues to monitor the situation to make sure that all Filipino nationals in the area are safe,” Jose said in a text message to the Philippines News Agency. DFA website posted that Filipino nationals in need of assistance may contact the hotline of the Philippine Embassy in Rome -3286907613. Reports claimed that Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi vowed to rebuild after the most See 6.6 QUAKE, page 12

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – BRP Andres Bonifacio (FF-17), the Philippine Navy (PN)’s third Hamilton-class cutter, will greatly boost the country’s capability to conduct “territorial patrols” within the nation’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). “FF-17 is a significant addition to the Navy’ inventory of ships in order to boost the conduct of territorial patrol missions within our EEZ,” PN spokesperson Capt. Lued Lincuna in a message to the PNA Monday, said.

BRP Andres Bonifacio is the sister ship BRP Gregorio Del Pilar (FF-15) and BRP Ramon Alcaraz (FF-16), both former Hamilton-class cutters acquired through the US Excess Defense Article Program in 2011 and 2013, respectively. “The ship can also be used for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, searchand-rescue at sea, and limited transport of relief goods and personnel to affected areas,” Lincuna See BRP ANDRES, page 12

Catholic prelate asks Pinoy artist from Qatar brings his art to the US New Jersey last October 15. He the faithful to oﬀer An internationally recognized also participated in the Society Filipino artist, who has spent the of Philippine American Artists prayers for Italy last seven years impressing sheiks, annual exhibit titled “Change” at By Abner Galino

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – A retired Catholic prelate asked the faithful to pray and help the people of Italy, which was hit by a 6.6 earthquake on Sunday. “Let us pray for them and help them in the way we can,” said Tagbilaran Bishop Emeritus Leonardo Medroso. He added, “Italy is again experiSee PRAYERS, page 12

businessmen and other bigshots in Doha, Qatar is currently in the United States to continue spreading the allure of his remarkable artistry. Angelo Maristela, who had employed his God-given talent since he was a teenager back in the Philippines, recently participated in a one-day group exhibit titled “For The Sake Of Art” in Bayonne,

the Philippine Consulate in Manhattan, New York last Oct 10 to 21. Prior to that Angelo joined “Strawberry Moon Summer” exhibit at the JMC Gallery, also in Manhattan, New York. Last August 29 to September 6, Angelo’s canvasses were also displayed during the “Art Biennial Miami” in Miami, Florida. See PINOY ARTIST, page 12

CBCP warns public vs. bogus priests Tens of thousands call CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY, Oct. 31 (PNA) – The Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) here on Monday warned the public against bogus priests during the observance of All Souls Day and All Saints Day. The All Saints Day and All Souls Day would be celebrated on November 1 and 2, respectively. Bogus priests visit both the public and private cemeteries and pretend to bless burial sites and graveyards with holy water, say a prayer, then collect contributions from the relatives who pay a visit to the departed. The CBCP directive urged the public to make sure that the person blessing their dead relatives is a real priest by asking appropriate identification and reference.

In Cagayan De Oro City, police and local officials had earlier thrown a security blanket around the public and private cemeteries here as people are expected to troop to the graveyard Monday night. Security was tightened in the “City’s Memorial Park,” the largest public cemetery in Bolonsori, Camaman-an, this city, as thousands of people flocked to the area Monday. Police and local village officials had strictly enforced the ban against liquor, gambling, loud music, and the bringing in of blunt objects in all the cemeteries here. A team from the local risk reduction, disaster management team has been deployed to various cemeteries in the city to provide emergency relief when needed.

on South Korean President to step down MOSCOW, Oct 31 (PNA/ Sputnik) – Nearly 30,000 South Koreans gathered in downtown Seoul Saturday to demand that President Park Geun-hye step down from her post, the result of an ongoing scandal involving Park’s friend Choi Soon-sil. The rally is the latest development in the scandal enveloping the éminence grise of South Korea, 60-year old Choi Soon-sil, over her influence over her longtime friend Park and the special favors she may have received as a result. Choi, who has never had See SOUTH KOREAN, page 12

Angelo Maristela, an internationally recognized Filipino artist, who has spent the last seven years impressing sheiks, businessmen and other bigshots in Doha, Qatar, is currently in the United States to continue spreading the allure of his remarkable artistry.

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High-powered firearms seized in North Cotabato mayor’s house KIDAPAWAN CITY, Oct 29 (Mabuhay) – Authorities raided at least four areas owned by Libungan Mayor Christopher Cuan shortly before dawn on Saturday and seized several high-powered firearms and hundreds of live ammunition. No illegal drugs such as shabu or any drug paraphernalia were confiscated during the operation even though President Rodrigo Duterte named the mayor as a narco-politicians allegedly involved in illegal drug trade in North Cotabato. The authorities who conducted the operation were armed with four search warrants issued by Judge Alex Betota, in Kabacan town for these areas: the mayor’s residence, guard house, motor pool, and gasoline station. The operation was carried

out by joint forces from the Regional Anti-illegal Drug Task Group, North Cotabato Criminal Investigation and Detection Team (CIDT), along with personnel from Libungan Municipal Police Station. Senior Superintendent Emmanuel Peralta, North Cotabato Police Provincial Office chief said the confiscatred firearms include armalite rifles, 12 gauge shotguns and several short firearms with live bullets. Cuan had no pertinent documents to prove that he legally owned the firearms and ammunitions. The mayor was placed under the custody of the CIDT North Cotabato while charges of illegal possession of guns and ammunition are being prepared against him in court. (MNS)

NCRPO Chief Albayalde and QCPD Director Eleazar conduct inspection at the Araneta Center Bus Terminal: National Capital Region Police Oﬃce (NCRPO) Chief Oscar Albayalde (3rd from right) talks to Araneta Center Senior Vice President (SVP) for Operations Antonio Mardo (right) and Quezon City Police District (QCPD) Director Guillermo Lorenzo T. Eleazar during an inspection of buses bound for the provinces at the Araneta Center Bus Terminal in Cubao, Quezon City on Friday (Oct. 28, 2016). (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

PNP chief orders deeper probe of ex-cop’s son slaying MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald “Bato” Dela Rosa on Monday ordered a deeper investigation on the killing of a retired policeman’s son. Yani Jebulan, 21, a third

year Psychology student of Our Lady Fatima University-Antipolo campus, was shot to death by unidentified gunmen onboard a motorcycle Saturday evening. Jebulan was celebrating with friends after passing a school examination.

He sustained gunshot wounds in the chest and in the head. Retired police Alfredo Jebulan, Yani’s father, has called on President Rodrigo Roa Duterte and Dela Rosa to immediately find the suspect in the killing of his son

or he will kill the suspect himself. “I have directed the RD (Regional Director), PRO4-A (Police Regional Office 4-A) to exert more effort in investigating this case,” Dela Rosa said on Monday.

DOJ mulls SAF deployment in Bilibid medium security compound By Christopher Lloyd T. Caliwan

MANILA, Oct. 30 (PNA) – The Department of Justice (DOJ) is planning to deploy elite commandos of the Philippine National Police-Special Action Force (PNP-SAF) to the medium security compound of the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City. DOJ Secretary Vitaliano Aguirre II made the statement after receiving information that the illegal transactions, including illegal drugs, that are previously taking place at Bilibid’s maximum security

compound were transferred to the medium security compound due to the strict security measures being implemented by the PNP-SAF. Aguirre said he is confident that illegal drugs can no longer be smuggled inside the national penitentiary but said there may still be illegal drugs hidden in the area. The DOJ has also installed two South Korean-made signal jammers at the maximum security compound preventing inmates involved in illicit activities

from communicating with their cohorts outside while more close circuit television cameras were also installed. “It’s under study but funding is a principal factor,” Aguirre said adding that the present administration “is running the operation under the budget of the previous administration.” More than 300 PNP-SAF personnel were deployed to secure the maximum security compound, replacing jail guards of the Bureau of Corrections who were made to undergo re-training by the

Mayor in Duterte narco-list admits gun ownership but denies drug involvement By Edwin O. Fernandez

LIBUNGAN, North Cotabato, Oct. 31 (PNA) – A town mayor in North Cotabato on Monday admitted he owned the guns seized on Saturday dawn by police anti-narcotics operatives from his home in Barangay Kabayuran here. Mayor Christopher Cuan of Libungan said he owned the guns and ammunition recovered by operatives of Regional Anti-Illegal Drugs Special Operations Task Force (RAIDSOTF) at 3 a.m. Saturday. “It was for my protection because I am a politician,” Cuan said in a statement aired over DXND-AM in Kidapawan City Monday. When asked whether the firearms were licensed, Cuan refused to provide answers. Cuan was in the narco-politician list of the PNP but he insisted he was not into illegal drug business. In fact, Cuan said,

he was against it and had been leading the campaign against illegal drugs in his town. Cuan showed some remorse why he joined politics. He was convinced the raid was politically motivated. But he did not elaborate. Supt. Romeo Galgo Jr, police regional spokesperson, said members of the Regional Anti-Illegal Drug Special Operations Task Force (RAIDSOTF-12), Regional Public Safety Battalion (RPSB) and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA-12) served the warrants at 3 a.m. Saturday in three houses of Mayor Cuan in Barangay Kabayuran. Galgo said the search warrants were issued by Judge Alandrex Betoya of Regional Trial Court Branch 16 in Kabacan, North Cotabato for illegal possession of firearms and illegal drugs. Recovered from Cuan’s

home were an M-16 Armalite rifle, a 12-gauge shot gun, two cal. 45 pistols (Para 1911 and Colt), cal. 5.56 bushmaster and hundreds of ammunition and magazines for various calibers. Galgo said Cuan would be committed to the court that issued the search warrants. The mayor was included in the list of President Duterte that is yet to be made public, a police intelligence officer said. On Thursday dawn, Mayor Samsudin Dimaukom of Datu Saudi Ampatuan, Maguindanao and nine of his companions were killed in the 4:10 a.m. police anti-drug operation in Barangay Old Bulatukan, Makilala, North Cotabato. Dimaukom and his wife were earlier tagged by Duterte as among the country’s narcopoliticians. No charges were filed against them and the Dimaukoms denied the allegations.

House panel to consolidate bills on creation of drug rehab centers MANILA, Oct 31 (Mabuhay) – The House of Representatives’ committee on dangerous drugs has approved the creation of a technical working group (TWG) that will consolidate all 27 proposals pertaining to the creation of drug rehabilitation centers nationwide. The panel chaired by Surigao del Norte Rep. Robert Ace Barbers approved the creation of the TWG before Congress went on break last October 19. Barbers said the rehabilitation of drug addicts is considered a priority of President Rodrigo Duterte,

with P3 billion of the Office of the President’s budget for 2017 earmarked for the construction of drug rehabilitation centers. “It is very important that the concerned agencies be on top of the drug rehabilitation programs’ implementation. The war on drugs doesn’t stop on the enforcement side. It should end on the rehabilitation side,” the lawmaker said. Of the 27 proposals seeking the establishment of drug rehabilitation centers, seven bills want these set up in the regions, four bills pertain to provincial centers,

two on legislative districts, five on cities, and eight on specific centers. Meanwhile, one bill seeks an affordable drug rehabilitation treatment for Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) members. According to the Dangerous Drugs Board, there are around 1.7 million drug dependents in the country. Data from the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, meanwhile, showed that more than 8,000 barangays, or 92 percent of barangays in Metro Manila alone are affected by drugs. (MNS)

bureau. Earlier this month, BuCor personnel conducted an “Oplan Galugad” operations targeting the medium security compound which led to the recovery of several contraband items, including 18 cellular phones. Aguirre previously said that cellular phones are the main communication link of these inmates with their cohorts and that removing the device from their hand would do a lot to wipe out the narcotics trade inside the national penitentiary.

Bohol to partake in PHL-Japan partnership By Angeline Valencia

TAGBILARAN CITY, Bohol, Oct. 30 (PNA) – Another gateway to Japan opportunities opened for Bohol after President Rodrigo Duterte’s state visit to Tokyo last week. As Japan seeks long-term suppliers of Class A bananas from the Philippines, Third District Rep. Arthur Yap eyes a vantage spot for Bohol in the deal. As chair of the Committee on Economic Affairs of the House of Representatives, Yap had again joined Duterte’s state visit entourage, together with former Maribojoc Mayor and now Executive Secretary Leoncio Evasco Jr., Senator Jose Victor Ejercito, House Speaker Pantaleon Alvarez and other legislative leaders. Yap said President Duterte and Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe discussed about Philippine Development Projects during the Prime Minister’s dinner treat on Oct. 26. More than 20 billion US dollars in project fundings were released to the market at the conclusion of the trip. Bohol has been in partnership with Japan and the latter has, in fact, funded the construction of the New Bohol Airport in Panglao which is expected to be completed by end of 2017. During the state visit, Yap assisted in finalizing the Farmind contract signing where Japan pledged an annual order of more than 20 million boxes of Class A bananas. Yap hopes that aside from Mindanao, “the sizable order will give Bohol farmers a

2 ASG bandits killed in Sulu clash By Priam F. Nepomuceno

MANILA, Oct. 30 (PNA) – Two more Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) bandits were reported killed in a skirmish with government troops in Indanan, Sulu Sunday morning. The incident took place 6:45 a.m. when troopers from the 11th Scout Ranger Compan, receiving reports concerning the presence of armed ASG bandits, deployed a patrol suprising eight brigands, of which two were killed after a brief firefight. Col. Rodrigo Gregorio, Joint Task Force Sulu spokesperson, said the body of one slain ASG was recovered along with a M-16 automatic rifle fitted with a M-203 grenade launcher and one improvised explosive device (IED). The body of the remaining bandit was seen been carried deep into ASG territory, he added. This brings to 38 the total number of ASG brigands killed since the intensified combat operations was launched in July which also wounded scores of members of the terrorist group. Soldiers suffered 15 killed in action and 28 wounded in action since July. Authorities believe that the ASG has splintered into small groups to evade soldiers and are planting IEDs to delay movements of government troops. Joint Task Force Sulu commander Brig. Gen. Arnel dela Vega said the successful pursuit is a “result of the cooperation of the community against the ASG”. He also condemned the use of IED by the ASG saying “IEDs maim and kill individuals regardless whether they are soldiers or civilians and the main losers are the innocent people in the community. The use of IED is not only against the law but it is outrightly evil and un-Islamic.” “The focused military operation will continue until we deal a crippling blow against the ASG and rescue the remaining hostages,” Dela Vega concluded.

PNP has alternative measures vs terrorism/criminality sans checkpoints MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – The Philippine National Police(PNP) has alternative measures against terrorism and criminality once they have dismantled the checkpoints that were set up nationwide when President Rodrigo Duterte declared a state of national emergency last September 2. National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) Director Chief Supt. Oscar Albayalde said among these procedures would be to increase mobile patrols, visibility operations and beat patrols. President Duterte earlier said that he would like to stop the conduct of checkpoints because it hampers the movement of people.

The President ordered the dismantling of checkpoints following complaints that the checkpoints, particularly in Mindanao, are creating kilometers of traffic jams which inconvenience the people. Albayalde explained that even without the checkpoints, the police patrols can still accost suspicious-looking characters they will see in the street. PNP will dismantle the checkpoints nationwide once they receive the formal directive from the President. Meanwhile, PNP Public Information Office (PIO) Chief and Spokesman Senior Supt. Dionardo Carlos said that they are just waiting for the implementing guidelines in the dismantling of the checkpoints.

chance to plant bananas not only for domestic needs but also for export to the high value Japanese markets.” Japan is looking for longterm suppliers and Yap is intent on bringing an export high-value crop to benefit Bohol farmers. In addition to bananas, Yap also found ways to expand cacao and ube plantings in Bohol “to diversify the rural income opportunities for farmers in Bohol.” Yap also emphasized the need to empower the farmers by helping them cut the cost of farm inputs and maximize

the output. He expects his Free Irrigation Bill to be approved in about six months if President Duterte will certify it as urgent. “Hopefully, if the President certifies it as urgent and priority of his administration, then maybe we can finish it (passage of Free Irrigation Bill) in about six months’ time,” according to Yap. Yap also proposed for the putting up of post-harvest facilities to convert the current 15-percent post-harvest losses in crops into clean harvest or marketable farm produce.

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Duterte earmarks anti-poverty, dev’t funds for ARMM, vows for more COTABATO CITY, Oct. 30 (PNA) – After pledging the Moroland will get equal share of the national budget to end poverty in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), President Rodrigo Duterte has actually granted PHP772,116,586 for the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) and Doctors to the Barrios and Rural Health Practice Program. On his Saturday visit at the ARMM regional seat, the first Mindanao President also distributed PHP46 million worth of school supplies, agricultural support, and fisheries support equipment to pre-identified beneficiaries. “With the bulk of projects given to the region, soon the ARMM constituents will enjoy easy access to quality health care and attain good health,” Presdient Duterte said. Dr. Kadil Sinolinding, ARMM health secretary, said the the program is expected to upgrade health facilities and augment the number of health professionals in impoverished towns across the region. Out of the total allocation for the regional HFEP, PHP353,600,000 was allocated for health infrastructure. It includes the construction of 18 barangay health stations, 139 rural health units, and 21 local government unit hospitals. ARMM Governor Mujiv Hataman said the program will help improve the delivery of healthcare services to un-served and under-served communities. The HFEP will also upgrade primary and secondary health facilities to

accommodate nursing students and to serve as primary health care treatment centers. This will provide patients easier access to health services, while expanding the services of existing tertiary hospitals by enabling them to be teaching and training hospitals. The health programs form part of Duterte’s anti-poverty drive dubbed Comprehensive Reform and Development Agenda (CRDA). Sinolinding said before the comprehensive health programs, ARMM had been implementing programs aimed at improving health services to the country’s poorest provinces. He noted that in 2010, only 47 rural health units (RHUs) exist in the region. But the number has more than doubled within six years as 56 additional RHUs were accredited, Sinolinding said. “The issue on health is always a priority and is of prime importance,” Sinolinding said. “Upgraded facilities will bring quality healthcare and health services closer to the constituents,” he noted. Aside from the health facilities, the health department will spend up to PHP418,516,586 for this year to engage and deploy 1,302 nurses, midwives and physicians under the Doctors to the Barrio and Rural Health Practices Program. Duterte and Hataman also distributed more than Php46 million worth of school supplies, agricultural support, and fisheries support equipment to pre-identified beneficiaries. Hataman was optimistic

the delivery of basic services to Moro people will have impact on the kind of lives they are currently in. Duterte also led the ceremonial distribution of school supplies to pupils in of conflict-affected schools in Maguindanao. Dr. John Magno, ARMM education secretary, said 5,288 pupils benefited from the distribution dubbed as Support Services Education Recovery. Duterte also led the ceremonial distribution of PHP21-million worth of facilities to agrarian reform communities in the region. The assistance included 11 units of Kubota 4-wheel drive tractor; eight units of tresher/husker; four units of corn sheller; one unit of stationary corn mill; eight units of rice mill; eight units of stationary mini rice mill-double pass; and 10 units of multi-purpose shredder. “This is unprecedented, no President has given much attention to Moro areas than President Duterte,” Senday Gumaban, a resident from Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao and one of the beneficiaries of government assistance. Another beneficiary, Alambai Salman of Parang, Maguindanao, said she did not err in voting for Duterte during the May polls. “Grabe ang puso niya para sa Moro, matagal na namin ito hinintay (His heart is for Moro people, we waited this for so long),” she said of Duterte. The President won in all Moro provinces in Mindanao. “I did not simply win, I won by landslides,” Duterte said in his speech.

APEC leaders summit in Lima next month will strengthen ties in the region LIMA, Oct 31 (PNA/BERNAMA-NNN-ANDINA) – The Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Leaders’ Summit which will be held in the Peruvian capital, Lima, next month will strengthen economic co-operation ties within the region, says Peruvian Second Vice-President Mercedes Araoz. She said here Friday that the event would help prevent the bloc from following the closed-market trend seen in certain economies and would strengthen unity among counties of the Pacific Rim. In this sense, she pointed out one of the bloc’s medium-term goals includes

an Asia-Pacific trade agreement. One of the Summit’s main themes will refer to ways to face the global macro-economic situation to sustain openness to investments, said Araoz who chairs the APEC 2016 High-Level Commission. “It is about openness for the benefit of everybody; that’s why it is called quality growth and human development. We have to incorporate SMEs (small and medium enterprises) into all global value chains; that is a highly important subject for us,” she told Andina news agency. The agenda also covers

food security and climate change to provide producers with opportunities in global markets. Last but not least is human development. In this respect, APEC seeks to provide youth with work-oriented education from an early age, thus preparing them to tackle 21st-Century job market challenges. The Summit, being hosted by this Inca nation for the second time, will bring together the leaders of the APEC forum’s 21 member economies. Presidents Barack Obama (United States) and President Xi Jinping (China) have already confirmed their attendance.

Arroyo pushes for creation of Philippine Teachers’ Hospital By Filane M. Cervantes

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – A congressional leader at the House of Representatives wants the establishment of a Philippine Teachers’ Hospital which will cater to the health concerns of teachers and their dependents. In a statement on Monday, former President and now House deputy speaker Gloria Macapagal Arroyo proposed the creation of a hospital for teachers through House Bill No. 2967 in recognition of their invaluable contribution to educating the country’s youth. “We have always recognized the important role of our teachers. They are our unsung heroes because despite the difficulties that confront their profession, they have remained steadfast in molding the values and character of our youth,” Arroyo said. Arroyo earmarked an initial budget of PHP300 million for its creation and subsequently included in

the Annual General Appropriations Act. The Philippine Teachers’ Hospital will be established in the National Capital Region (NCR) as the primary medical facility for the hospitalization and medical care of teachers and their family members. The proposed law also mandates all regional hospitals to create a teacher’s ward, with a capacity of at least 50 beds, for teachers residing outside of the NCR. Arroyo’s bill covers those employed by public and private educational institutions as teachers, instructors, administrative support employees, physicians, dentists and nurses, as well as officials of the Department of Education and the Commission on Higher Education. Arroyo said graduates of education who have passed the government examination for teachers but are not actually employed as such can also be accommodated under the legislation. Meanwhile, their depen-

dents shall refer to their legitimate spouse dependent upon them for support; their legitimate, illegitimate, or legally adopted children, not more than 21 years old; and their parents dependent upon them for support. The Philippine Teachers’ Hospital will be administered by a Board of Directors headed by the Secretaries of Education and Health as ex-officio Chairmen, with the Secretary of Social Welfare and Development and Chairman of the Commission on Higher Education as ex-officio members. Other members of the board will be representatives from the teachers sector, each from Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. “It is the hope of the author that such hospital can provide comprehensive health care services to all teachers and their dependents and complement the existing package of services under the National Health Insurance Program,” Arroyo said.

Early All Saints’ Day visitors at Libingan ng mga Bayani: Parents and other relatives of some of the soldiers buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City pay an early visit at the tombs of their departed love ones on Friday (Oct. 28, 2016), four days before the traditional observance of All Saints’ Day on Nov. 1. (PNA photo by Avito C. Dalan)

BDO tops PHL banks in terms of assets: Central Bank data By Joann S. Villanueva

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – Philippine domestic banks continue to increase their assets, due partly to higher capital requirements in line with the implementation of BASEL III. BASEL III was scheduled by the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (BCBS) for staggered implementation from 2016 to 2018 but was implemented by the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in four years ahead of the deadline, starting Jan. 1, 2014 for universal and commercial banks (U/KBs). It requires banks to have not only a minimum 10 percent Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR) but also a Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) ratio of at least 6 percent and Tier 1 capital ratio of at least 7.5 percent by 2019. The BSP has reported that U/KBs have adjusted to the impact of BASEL III capital reforms based on

the reports of the industry’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (CAR), a gauge of a bank’s financial health. Central bank data showed that as of end-2015, the CAR of U/KBs stood at 14.91 percent on solo basis and 15.78 percent on consolidated basis. These are both higher than the central bank’s 10 percent minimum requirement and the 8 percent international minimum requirement. With the continued capital raising activities of banks, the Sy-led Banco de Oro Unibank Inc. (BDO) topped 41 U/KBs in terms of total assets as of the end of June. At the end of the first half this year, BDO’s total assets amounted to PHP2.04 trillion, BSP data showed. The other banks with trillion pesos level of assets are the Ty-led Metropolitan Bank & Trust Company (Metrobank) with PHP1.42 trillion; the Ayala-led Bank

of the Philippine Islands (BPI) with PHP1.3 trillion; and state-owned Land Bank of the Philippines with PHP1.29 trillion. The Tan-led Philippine National Bank (PNB); Security Bank Corp. (Security Bank); the government financial institution Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP); Henry Sy’s China Banking Corp. (ChinaBank); the Yuchengco-led Rizal Commercial Banking Corp. (RCBC); and the Aboitiz-led Union Bank of the Philippines (Union Bank) rounded out the top 10 list. The Philippine branch of Citibank N.A.; the stateowned United Coconut Planters Bank (UCPB); the Gutianun-led East West Banking Corp. (EastWest Bank); Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. (HSBC); and Filipino and Taiwanese joint venture business Asia United Bank (AUB) ranked 11th to 15th.

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Dela Rosa: Dismantling of checkpoints will be a handicap to corrupt law enforcers By Perfecto T. Raymundo Jr.

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Director General Ronald Dela Rosa said on Monday the directive of President Rodrigo R. Duterte for the dismantling of police’s security checkpoints nationwide will be a handicap to corrupt law enforcers. President Duterte earlier ordered the dismantling of checkpoints following complaints that the checkpoints, particularly in Mindanao, are creating kilometers of traffic jams which inconvenience the people. The conduct of nationwide checkpoints was implemented when President Duterte declared a state of national emergency following the bombing in Davao City that claimed the lives of 15 individuals and injured 70 others last Sept. 2. The state of national emergency was also a counter-measure against possible threats of terrorism. Dela Rosa said that the fixed checkpoints will be dismantled, adding that there will only be mobile checkpoints if necessary. The PNP chief said the dismantling of checkpoints will not be a handicap in the government’s anti-criminality drive, but rather, it will be a handicap to law enforcers who are only after mulcting money. “Such policy can’t be our handicap. Magiging handicap yan sa mga law enforcers na pangungotong lang ang nasa isip,” Dela Rosa said. “In fact, fixed checkpoints have become irrelevant because criminals have been evading them (policemen),” he added. “We can establish mobile checkpoints anytime when needed,” the PNP Chief said.

Duterte vows all out support for ARMM peace, dev’t programs COTABATO CITY, Oct. 30 (PNA) – The Duterte administration is committing full support to development initiatives in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) as well as in other areas affected by recent conflicts. President Rodrigo Duterte made this commitment on his fourth visit in the region Saturday since becoming the country’s 16th President. He has already visited Basilan, Sulu and Maguindanao. He launched the ‘Comprehensive Reform and Development Agenda for ARMM and other Conflict-Affected Areas in Regions 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), 10 (Northern Mindanao) and 12 (Central Mindanao)’ along with ARMM Gov. Mujiv Hataman and other regional and provincial officials. These program focuses on anti-poverty projects harnessing mainly resources from the Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Agriculture, Department of Energy, and the Technology Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA). He vowed to end hunger or at least reduced its number by the time he ends his term. “We will pour development funds in Moro areas,” said President Duterte in the vernacular. Recent Philippine Statistics Authority showed ARMM provinces are leading in terms of poverty incidence. Accompanying the President were Interior and Local Government Secretary Ismael Sueño, Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy Taguiwalo, Energy Secretary Alfonso Cusi, and TESDA Director Guiling Mamondiong. Duterte, in his speech, said he was saddened after Agriculture Sec. Manny Pinol told him a lot of farm and fishery equipment gathering dust in DA warehouses and could not be distributed to beneficiaries because they need to raise “counterpart” funds. “Why come up with a program for the poor that needs counterpart funding?” he asked, adding those beneficiaries don’t even have enough food to eat. The audience applauded when the President said: “I’ll buy more for you but please take good care of those equipment, they were bought with money from the people,” he told the people of ARMM. Recalling a private individual offered him campaign fund before the elections but he politely denied it, Duterte said he is reconsidering his decision to accept the PHP1 billion private donation “if it can be used to build hospitals Jolo” and other poor provinces. During his entire speech, the President did not cuss, an act the solicited admiration from the audience. He repeated his determination in winning his war on illegal drugs, end corruption in government and end poverty.

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OPINION

De Lima commends media orgs’ drive vs. fake news in social media By Azer N. Parrocha

MANILA, Oct. 30 (PNA) -- Senator Leila de Lima on Sunday expressed support to media outlets which have gone their way to lead campaigns against the spread of fake news on social media. In a statement, de Lima cited GMA News Online and Rappler for actively checking on some hoaxes being shared and re-shared to the public and stopping the spread of hatred and insults on social media. “I commend these two media organizations for asserting their democratic role of gatekeepers not only of public morals but also of truth, respect and

decency in public life,” de Lima said. The neophyte senator also acknowledged the differing views and opinions on issues that matter to majority of Filipinos. “Like many of you, however, I also resent all and every deliberate and malicious attempt to curse, trash, degrade, humiliate and even intimate our people,” she added. She further said that although she respected expression of dissent and even frustration on social media, she stressed that she will not tolerate any attempt to silence freedom of speech.

Aquino on Duterte’s foreign policy: More sound to keep strong ties with US MANILA, Oct 29 (Mabuhay) – Former President Benigno Aquino III on Friday broke his silence and expressed a contrary opinion to his successor President Rodrigo Duterte’s “separation” in foreign policy from the United States. Aquino indicated that it was more sound to maintain strong ties with the US than with another country that has no “common background” and “common values” with the Philippines. “Importante na meron kayong common background, common values, may common orientation. Paano tayo magiging partner kung hindi pareho yung ating pananaw?” Aquino said. “Sa sistemang umiiral sa bansang Estados Unidos... maraming pinagkapareho so kung tutuusin baka mas madaling katrabaho ang isang bansa na marami tayong kapareho as opposed doon sa maraming hindi parehas,” he added. Aquino made the remarks after visiting the Thai Embassy to sign the Book of Condolences for the passing of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej. “May tinatawag kasing strategic partnership. Dinatnan ko dadalawa lang - isa sa Amerika at isa sa Japan,” Aquino said. The Duterte administration is currently implementing what it calls as “independent foreign policy” which Malacanang defined as being free from outside pressure and opening the Philippines’ doors to new allies such as China and Russia. Aquino pointed out that he also pursued an independent foreign policy during his term. “Noong panahon din natin, masasabi din nating nadedesisyon tayo na iisa lang ang basehan - ano ba ang ikabubuti ng Pilipino at ano ba ang interes ng Pilipinas. Palagay ko ito yung version nila noong ginagawa namin noong panahon namin,” Aquino said. It was under the Aquino administration when the Philippines filed an arbitration case against China’s excessive claims. The Philippines sought relief from the Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague after China, through a series of aggressive actions in the disputed waters, pressed its nine-dash-line theory over most

of the South China Sea. China’s claim overlapped with the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone that was provided for under the United Nations Conventions on the Law of the Sea, which China also ratified. Beijing rejected the arbitration proceedings and instead reiterated its preference for bilateral talks with the Philippines. Duterte was already the President when the tribunal released its decision in July. The court found China’s claims without basis. The President lauded Aquino for filing the case that secured the favorable ruling for the Philippines. Duterte, however, saw it fit not to taunt China with the tribunal’s decision and instead announced that the Philippines was willing to engage its neighbor bilaterally as regards the disputed waters. He recently concluded a trip to China during which both countries committed “to further enrich Philippines-China bilateral relations, founded on mutual respect, sincereity, equality and mutual benefit.” It was also in China where he announced his “separation” from the United States both in military and economics, a statement that he later on explained to mean as “separation of a foreign policy” and not a severance of ties with the country’s long-time treaty ally. Aquino refused to issue any more comments related to Duterte saying he had made a promise not to comment on the policies of the present administration for a year. He also said that he would like Duterte to succeed as this would also mean that the efforts of his administration will not go to waste. “Pinipilit ko huwag magsalita tungkol sa kilos niya kasi alam ko kung gaano kahirap yung trabaho. Alam ko kung gaano kaingay, ang daming boses na gustong ipadinig sa iyo na kadalasan magkakasalungat yung mga sinasabi noong mga nagpapayo sa ‘yo,” Aquino said. “Iisa ang bansa natin...ang misyon naman namin lahat ng itinanim ay mapitas yung mga mahuhusay na bunga. Bakit magiging makatuwiran na pahirapan namin yung parang tulay para ipagpatuloy yung mga pinaghirapan,” he added. (MNS)

Palace exec: We ‘will be guided’ by Ramos’ remarks on climate pact MANILA, Oct 31 (Mabuhay) – A Malacañang official on Monday said the Duterte administration “will be guided” by former President Fidel Ramos’ statements on the need to ratify the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. “We appreciate former President FVR’s advice. We will be guided by the wisdom of former President FVR,” Communications Secretary Martin Andanar said in a text message to reporters. Andanar was reacting to the newspaper column of Ramos entitled “Climate change: Attention P Digong, Cabinet and Congress” published over the weekend. Ramos said President Rodrigo Duterte was “full of S....T” if he thought his diatribes against the Philippines’ allies and the 2015 Paris Agreement on Climate Change Agreement was his God-given destiny, given that his rejection of the climate agreement was akin to him and the entire country “shooting [themselves] in the mouth.” Ramos pointed out that mitigating the effects of climate change required international cooperation and collective positive action, and that this collective action was embodied in the Paris climate agreement. He explained that Duterte was wrong if he thought the agreement limited greenhouse gas emissions similarly among participating countries, not taking into account the major responsibilities developed

countries have to the problem while also stunting the economic progress of developing nations. Ramos argued further that failure to ratify the Paris Agreement would limit the Philippines’ participation in the 22nd session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 22) in Marrakesh to mere observers, and we would thus be unable to advance the interests of the country. Ratification, however, will “enable us to secure more investments towards our climate goals and gain access to the financial, technological, and capacity-building support to be provided to parties of the Agreement.” Ramos concluded by calling on Duterte to approve the Paris Agreement “forthwith”, and “certify it for Senate ratification to promote our country’s interests and fight for climate justice.” Duterte earlier said that he wast not keen on honoring the 2015 Paris Agreement, as it will only slow down the country’s move towards economic growth. “Yes, we are a signatory to that agreement and would you be able to maintain your emissions?” Duterte said in a speech on July 18. “No, I cannot tell.” “I will not honor that. Sabi niya: ‘But you signed the—’ That was not my signature. Somebody else’s, not mine. Sabi ko... I will not follow,” he added. (MNS)

UN refugee agency aims to double funds for cash-based assistance to refugees by 2020 UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 1 (PNA/Xinhua) – The UN refugee agency on Monday announced its intention to double funds for cash-based assistance to refugees across the world by 2020, as a way to better assist and protect them. According to the press release from the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the agency is already providing cash-based interventions in 60 countries, including Jordan and Lebanon, which are hosting a massive influx of Syrian refugees, and plans to expand the programs to another 15 countries next year. “The use of cash-based assistance has been a real game changer in the way we help refugees and we have now decided to make it a worldwide policy and expand it to all our operations, where feasible,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said in the news release. “UNHCR was one of the first UN agencies to employ cash-based assistance in the mid-80s and has developed an in-depth expertise in this field,” Grandi said. “Over the years, we have seen its remarkable

effect on the life of refugees and forcibly displaced people.” Refugees know best what they need and cash-based assistance enables them to decide how to manage their family’s budget, he said. The UN high commissioner also noted that cashbased programs often prove to be an efficient way to help those fleeing conflict and persecution, in a context of growing urbanization and the search for alternatives to camps. He stressed that cash assistance benefits local businesses and economies and is an important asset to foster relationships between host and refugee communities. “Expanding our cash-based assistance to refugees and forcibly displaced people in the coming years will go hand-in-hand with enhancing our partnerships,” he said, noting that the development of joint cash delivery arrangements with partners on the ground will help ensure a more predictable and coordinated assistance and maximize efficiency and synergies.

THE US ASIAN POST Friday - Thursday, November 4 - 10, 2016

Folk rituals still openly and widely practiced by Filipinos for the dead By Judy F. Partlow

DUMAGUETE CITY, Oct. 30 (PNA) – Widespread tradition of pre-Hispanic practices during the yearly observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day are still being observed by many Filipinos even until today. Although the Catholic Church may not encourage these customs and traditions of remembering the dead, majority of Filipinos still continue to perform some of these rituals to honor their dearly departed. These practices, sometimes called “Folk Catholicism” by outside observers, can be traced to the pre-Hispanic era where ancient Filipinos engaged in ethnic expressions of respect and remembrance of the dead. The “anito,” a collective noun for the deceased ancestors, nature-spirits, household deities and similarly-defined creatures, is traced back to the pre-Hispanic era. This explains the usual “Fright Night” parties during Halloween where people and even children dress up in horror costumes such as zombies, vampires, skeletons and the like. Many traditional rituals also date back to ancient Filipino culture, with some of them now being incorporated or mixed into modern customary practices. For instance, the “halad” or offering is a common scenario in a Filipino setting, not just by Catholics but by some other religions as well. The “halad,” as described in olden times, is believed to attract their dearly departed to come and partake of the menu offered before them, either at an altar at home or at the tomb in the cemetery.

Many would still cook specialty dishes like “biko” (glutinous rice cake) and other foods that they offer on the eve of All Souls’ Day or Nov. 2 at the altar. The offerings would also include, apart from favorite foods of their departed family members, wine, alcoholic beverages, tobacco, cigarettes and other items the deceased had enjoyed when he or she was still alive. Cecille, 56, and a mother of two, recalls that their late uncle would prepare Filipino delicacies during Halloween and would set them on a mat on the floor. Cecille continues that as a child, she and her cousins would gather around in a circle while the grandmother would perform some kind of ritual and offer prayers in a “strange” language (perhaps Latin, she says), while calling out to the departed. Once the ritual is over, Cecille recounts that she and her cousins would “pounce” on the food and beverages and partake of them. No one in her family in modern times has continued such tradition, she said, although what is being practiced by many family members is the offering of food at the altar. Another customary practice here that is also very much present, especially at the cemeteries, is the “palina” or a ritual fumigation. People who leave the cemeteries after visiting the tombs of their deceased relatives pass by the “palina” area, usually a burning mound of leaves from kamangyan, incense and “tawas” or alum. It is widely believed that one who leaves the cemetery need to go through the

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ritual of “palina” to relieve himself of “bad spirits” or the “germs” that one might have gotten from the “dirty tombs” and graves. But for Catholic priests Msgr. Julius Perpetuo Heruela and Fr. Archie Toroy, the Church puts premium on the offering of masses for the departed souls. Msgr. Heruela, the parish priest of Bacong, Negros Oriental, explains that many people still do not understand the real meaning of the observance of All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day. Fr. Toroy, assistant parish priest of Zamboanguita, Negros Oriental, also explains about Halloween, which many are still confused as to its meaning to this day. Halloween, according to Fr. Toroy, is observed by many in the evening of Oct. 31, or on the eve of All Saints’ Day. Halloween is derived from the root word “hallow” or meaning “holy,” therefore, what is more appropriate when celebrating this is to “dress up” instead like the saints or angels, he added. All Saints’ Day is to commemorate the saints and all the holy faithful who have already reached heaven, he said. According to Msgr. Heruela, people are asked to pray alongside with the saints on All Saints’ Day as well, for those that are still suffering in purgatory, awaiting release from there so that they may enter heaven. By offering masses and prayers for the dead, people are doing “penance” for the poor souls in purgatory “to lessen their stay there” because they can no longer do penitence themselves, Msgr. Heruela added.

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have now decided to make it a worldwide policy and expand it to all our operations, where feasible,” UN High Commissioner for Refugees Filippo Grandi said in the news release. “UNHCR was one of the first UN agencies to employ cash-based assistance in the mid-80s and has developed an in-depth expertise in this field,” Grandi said. “Over the years, we have seen its remarkable effect on the life of refugees and forcibly displaced people.” Refugees know best what they need and cashbased assistance enables them to decide how to manage their family’s budget, he said. The UN high commissioner also noted that cash-based programs often prove to be an efficient way

to help those fleeing conflict and persecution, in a context of growing urbanization and the search for alternatives to camps. He stressed that cash assistance benefits local businesses and economies and is an important asset to foster relationships between host and refugee communities. “Expanding our cashbased assistance to refugees and forcibly displaced people in the coming years will go hand-in-hand with enhancing our partnerships,” he said, noting that the development of joint cash delivery arrangements with partners on the ground will help ensure a more predictable and coordinated assistance and maximize efficiency and synergies.

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Friday - Thursday, November 4 - 10, 2016

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ENTERT What Bianca learned from being married to JC Being married to basketball player JC Intal has allowed “Pinoy Big Brother” host Bianca Gonzalez to learn new things about her hus-

b ba band. an nd d.

Bianca Gonzalez

One is that he’s actually more caring that she first thought. “Nung mag-boyfriend pa kami sobra niyang maalaga, maalaga,” Gonzal Gonzalez admitted. “Tapos nung n naging magasawa kam kami, mas naging mas ma maalaga. Tapos ngayon n na may anak na kam kami, may mas pa pala pala, may nile-level up p pa siya. Puwede pala iyo iyon kaya naka-jackpot talag talaga ako.” Intal, who wa was also on the late nigh night talk show, said of hi his wife: “Basta ang al alam ko lang, nung nakita ko kung p papaano niya a alagaan si Lucia [their daughter daughter], mas nadagdagan, nadagd mas sumobra su pa iyong iyon pagmamahal ko para sa p kanya.” The two will be b celebrating their second s anniversary as a m married couple this December. Decem They are also preparing to mark the th first birthday of Lucia, Lucia who was born in Octob October last year. (MNS)

Christian-Julie Ann collaboration promises to be an interesting show What to expect when you put a balladeer and an R&B singer in one show? A curious concept even for the artists themselves. “We haven’t done a concert together so I really don’t know what to expect,” Christian Bautista said of his concert with Julie Ann San Jose at the KIA Theater on Nov. 11. “Meron siyang attack (as singer) na ako, personally, ngayon ko lang nadi-discover. But I think we can find a middle ground na magko-compliment kami na kahit anong Julie Ann San Jose genre pwede naming makanta.” The balladeer deems it only right that they finally perform in a concert together. He said he’s bumped into Julie Anne so many times in variety shows and corporate events. “When I’m with her, I feel so young so mas ginaganahan ako mag-perform. When she performs, she gives her all,” he said. There will be a portion in the concert “When Julie Anne Meets Christian” where the duo will perform popular theater pieces. Christian has extensive theatrical background, having acted in plays like “Jersey Boys,” “Ghost,” “West Side Story” and “Rama Hari.” Julie Anne and Christian have solid admiration for each other. “Kaya niya kahit anong genre,” Julie Anne said. Christian, on the other hand, is amazed with Julie Anne’s digital savvy, particularly her being a hit on social media. “I am not good on social media at all. I’m trying. I’m doing my best. I came from the generation na ang Internet ay dial-up. But Julie Anne, she uses the platform well. She just knows how to connect with her fans through it. Gusto ko din gayahin. “Like if you look at her YouTube page, she covers some songs and she gets a million hits. I wanna learn how she does it. I cannot just stay here and wither away so I have to always learn something new,” he said. Aside from singing, both are into acting. Christian is part of “Encantadia” as Apitong, while Julie Ann will star on “Pinulot Ka Lang Sa Lupa.” “Acting is a new discovery palagi. Madami pa din akong natututunan. I’m not there yet where I want to be as an actor. Ang sarap na kapag nakuha mo ’yung role. ’Yung demand ng character at director at kapag na-perfect mo ’yung scene na iyon, ang sarap sa feeling,” he said. Julie Anne, who just graduated from college this year, is willing to explore other opportunities, such as theatre. She was supposed to audition for “Miss Saigon” last year but fell sick. “Siguro sabi ni Lord na hindi pa siguro panahon. I’m not really shutting my doors naman, so kung may opportunity na makapag-Broadway or abroad, I think hindi naman imposible. Willing naman din ako to explore. Madami pa ako gusto matutunan,” she said. Christian believes Julie Anne is going to “conquer the world someday.” “She still has a long way to go. And parang maging part ng journey niya is very exciting. Iyon din ang aabangan ko sa concert na ito,” he said. (MNS)

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INMENT

Macky Mathay confirms romance with Sunshine Cruz Rumors have been swirling for some time that Sunshine Cruz is in a romantic relationship with Macky Mathay, the half-brother of actress Ara Mina. This, after the two were spotted holding hands together in public early this month. When asked if he and Cruz are a couple in an exclusive interview, Mathay replied: “Yes.” Mathay, who is separated from his wife, Camille Farinas, added that he started courting Cruz after the actress replied to his Instagram message back in September. He also shared that he was the first to admit to have fallen in love in the relationship. “I assured her, ‘Ever since from the start, na pag lumabas, hindi kita idi-deny ‘cause you make me so hap-

py. Tsaka mahal kita’,” Mathay was quoted in saying. He went to talk about how comfortable he is around Cruz. “Sinasabi ko kay Sunshine, ‘Everything happens so fast between the two of us, but the thing is, I love you. And puwede namang araw-araw kitang ligawan pa rin.’ “Para at least, ‘di ba, ang dami-daming tao na—tsaka, iyon nga, matanda na kami na ang dami nang pinagdaanan sa buhay, the two of us, [na baka] hindi na uli makahanap ng mamahalin. So, bakit pipigilan mo pa yung nararamdaman mo?” Mathay explained. Cruz is separated from her husband Cesar Montano. She has already filed an annulment case against the actor, whom she has three children with. (MNS)

Sunshine Cruz

Maja Salvador open to working with Kim Chiu, Gerald Anderson Maja Salvador is open to the possibility of working opposite former best friend Kim Chiu and ex-boyfriend Gerald Anderson. In a recent interview, Chui said they have moved on from their past issues and happy with their respective personal lives. Salvador added that the entertainment industry is too small not to work with each other. “Kung maganda po ang story, bakit hindi. Lagi nga po naming sinasabi na trabaho is trabaho. At saka ang liit lang ng mundo namin,

Maja Salvador

magkakatrabaho at magkakatrabaho kami. Ang

daming puwedeng mangyari sa industriya namin. At no choice kami kasi ang liit lang ng mundo namin,” she said. Asked how is her relationship with the two, Salvador shared that she’s civil with Anderson while friends with Chiu. “Masasabi ko na we’re [with Chiu] friends. Okay na okay kami. Hindi lang like before na lumalabas kami, pero we’re friends,” the actress said about the Cebuana actress. Salvador said she is looking forward to Chiu and Anderson’s reunion project

“Ikaw Lang Ang Iibigin” on ABS-CBN. Salvador said it’s about time the two reunite in the small screen as fans have been waiting for this project for six years. Meanwhile, Salvador was asked for her reaction on reports that Anderson has rekindled his romance with ex-girlfriend Bea Alonzo. “Nakikita ko na he’s happy, bakit di na lang tayo maging happy for everyone,” she said. Salvador added that she has a special bond with Alonzo. (MNS)

Ariel Rivera remains unstoppable at 50 Still looking young and actively working, Ariel Rivera is proof that age is just a number. The singer-actor turned 50 last September. He’s been in show business for 26 years and by the looks of it, the tenure extends indefinitely especially that he’s been into healthier lifestyle for some time now. “It helps na my wife is into that,” he said. “She’s healthy and conscious with her body and na-i-influence niya ako.” Ariel is making a comeback of sorts on GMA-7 via the upcoming teleserye “Hahamakin Ang Lahat” also starring Kristoffer Martin, Joyce Ching, Thea Tolentino and Bruno Gabriel. The last time Ariel did a project with the Kapuso Network was six years ago. His arrangement with them now is on a pershow basis. “Marami akong kaibigan sa GMA. ’Yung mga AP, EP,

we’re very close friends even outside of work. Minsan magkasama kami kapag may free time,” he said. Ariel feels so blessed with the opportunities coming his way that the constant rise of younger actors doesn’t bother him one bit. “Kaunti na lang yata kami na ka-edad ko to be given projects so it’s always a blessing,” he said. “Well, from the time I started naman, hindi importante sa akin ’yung awards o ’yung pera. Sa akin, it’s being able to work with people I want to work with. Tsaka kahit papano, may artistic side tayo. Meron akong mga negosyo but hindi ko makita sarili ko na nakaupo lang sa desk. I find excitement exercising my artistic side,” he said. “I like roles that are challenging. Kapag hindi ko type, hindi ko gagawin. Importante sa akin kung ano ’yung role ko.”

Ariel Rivera

Though among seasoned singers and actors in the industry, Ariel is not waiting for anyone to pay tribute to his accomplishments. He even downplays the “Kilabot ng Kolehiyala” tag once given him, insisting the title belongs to Hajji Alejandro. “I like where I am. To be in this industry as long as I

Ai Ai gets positive reviews as ‘prostie’

Ai Ai De Las Alas is overwhelmed with all the positive reviews she’s getting for her performance as an

Ai Ai De Las Alas

aging prostitute looking for her long lost child in Louie Ignacio’s award-winning movie about the oldest profession, “Area”. “Big blessing talaga sa’kin ang movie kasi it gave me the chance to attend my first international filmfest sa Kazakhstan where we won the Special Jury Prize sa Eurasia Film Festival,” she says. “Ang sarap pala ng feeling na maglakad ka sa red carpet tapos pinapalakpakan ng mga tao ang pelikula ninyo at na-appreciate nila nang husto.” “Area” is important for her as it’s also the first movie where she gets to act with her first born son,

Sancho Vito de las Alas, who plays a pimp in the whore house where Ai Ai works. “Si Mama ang manager at handler ko,” said Sancho. “Talagang concerned siya sa acting ko. Sinasabi niya, anak, bawasan mo, kapag medyo OA ang atake ko.” Is it true he took more after his dad, the late theatre actor Rey Malte Cruz? “Hindi naman. 50-50 sila, kasi sa mama ko naman ako lumabas, di ba? Mana ako sa kanilang dalawa. But I also want to try theatre acting like my dad, para mahasang mabuti ang craft ko sa an actor.” “Area” is rated R-18, without cuts, with all the contro-

am, mas gusto ko na ’yung tahimik na lang basta may trabaho. Hindi na kailangan ng tribute o tag,” Ariel said. If anything, he’d rather share his learnings to younger artists. “I think it’s part of our responsibility as industry veterans, to mentor young ones on how to go about working, being professional, investing their money wisely,” said he who also has a construction business. He shared his sons are now studying in Canada. “We thought of migrating there. But the thing was, naawa din naman ako kay Gelli (de Belen, his wife) kasi anong gagawin niya doon? Magiging stagnant siya, baka iyon pa maging dahilan ng paghihiwalay namin. Our reason for our plan to migrate was for our kids, education, more opportunities. The kids are there, studying their high school. Kami dito na lang, work.” (MNS)

versial nudity and pumping scenes to be shown intact. It will open in theaters on November 9. Ai Ai left for the airport last Wednesday right after the presscon of “Area”. She will have two shows in Texas, at Dallas on October 29 and at San Antonio (where the Alamo is located) on October 30. Then she’ll go to visit her two other kids in California, Nicolo and Sophia. She’ll be back in Manila before November 9 for the showing of “Area” then, on November 11, her birthday, she’ll be receiving the Papal Award from Bishop Antonio Tobias at the cathedral in Novaliches. (MNS)

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President Duterte talks to airport employees upon his arrival at Davao City from Japan: President Rodrigo R. Duterte talks to airport employees upon his arrival at Francisco Bangoy International Airport in Davao City from his state visit to Japan on Thursday (Oct. 27, 2016). (Photo by Ace Morandante/Presidential Photo/PNA)

PCO ASec Banaag calls for enrichment of Cordillera culture and tradition Uncoordinated demolition cause BAGUIO CITY, Oct. 31 pine President Rodrigo for several years have been observation of the annivertraﬃc congestion at NAIA-T3 (PNA) – Presidential Com- Dutere which he (the Pres- observing the “Gong” Fes- sary of the IPRA is spear-

munications Office (PCO) Assistant Secretary (ASec) Ana Marie Banaag on Sunday reminded the youth to always remember the tradition they grew in and help in its enrichment. Banaag, a Cordilleran herself, graced the culminating activity of the joint observation of the 19th Anniversary of the Indigenous Peoples’ Rights Act (IPRA) of 1997 and the “Gong” Festival on Sunday here. Banaag said the Indigenous Peoples (IPs) is one of the concerns of Philip-

ident) mentioned in his State of the Nation Address (SONA). Banaag noted that the partnership of the government agency and the private sector will be an assurance that the culture and tradition of the Cordilleras will remain in future generations. Banaag is thankful that the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), a government agency initiated the joint activity with the private non-government organization (NGO) who,

tival in Baguio City which began as the “1000 Gongs.” Banaag participated in several “tayao” (dances) which was appreciated by the Cordillera Region leaders - Baguio City Representative Marquez Go, Baguio City Mayor Mauricio Domogan, Benguet Governor Crescencio Pacalso and government line agency heads through the NCIP. Banaag was a one-term mayor of Natonin, Mountain Province. NCIP-CAR director, lawyer Roland Calde, said the

headed by the commission while the Gong Festival is initiated by a non-government organization and the culminating activity was the first joint effort. Activities in both events were done separately in the different provinces of the region and the culminating activity was a convergence and participated in by more than 30 IP groups.

UNWTO: Egypt is worldwide leader in tourism LUXOR, Egypt, Nov. 1 (PNA/Xinhua) – United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Secretary General Taleb Rifai said Monday that Egypt is a worldwide leader in tourism and will continue to be so. His comments came during the inauguration of the 104th meeting of the Executive Council of the

UNWTO which is being held in Upper Egypt’s city of Luxor, which was named earlier this year by UNWTO as the “World Tourism Capital” for 2016. The event comes as Egypt struggles to revive its ailing tourism sector which has been suffering recession over the past few years due to political turmoil and relevant

security issues. “The high level of attendance at this meeting is a confirmation of the confidence of the international tourism community in Egypt, “ Rifai told the meeting. Some 170 representatives from 40 countries attended the meeting, including 11 tourism officials from Ar-

gentina, Azerbaijan, Brazil, Costa Rica, Egypt, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, Serbia, Sudan, Zambia and Zimbabwe. The two-day meeting will discuss three priorities of the organization for 2016-2017: safe, secure and seamless travel, the impact of technology in the tourism sector and sustainability.

MANILA, Oct. 31 (PNA) – Heavy traffic congestion at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 last Friday was caused by the demolition of the existing Skyway ramp of the NAIA Expressway without due coordination with the Inter-Agency Council on Traffic (I-ACT). Department of Transportation (DOTr) Sec. Arthur Tugade directed the I-ACT to call the attention of the SOMCO/Skyway management and asked to immediately suspend the works in the ramp which was causing congestion due to the influx of passengers in the NAIA. Contractor DMCI immediately stopped the demolition works but one lane has already become unpassable. Engineer Alec Cruz, head of Skyway Tollways Operation, went to the site and verified the situation and checked whether it was possible to open another ramp to alleviate the pressure on the one that they closed. Manny Bonoan, President of SOMCO/ Skyway, announced later that NAIAX Ramp 1 was temporarily opened to relieve the Terminal 3 and Andrews Avenue of traffic congestion providing additional access to the elevated section towards Makati and southbound areas like Alabang. Traffic started to move slowly due to heavy volume of vehicles. Skyway traffic patrollers were also deployed in the Terminal 3 area as far as Sales Interchange to help IACT traffic patrollers manage the traffic. The traffic situation over the weekend along Andrews Avenue and Sales Bridge area has been light to moderate with the entrance to Terminal 3 as moderate to slow moving.

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PRAYERS PRAYER to the BLESSED VIRGIN (Never known to fail)

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PRAYERS PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Holy Spirit Thou who make me see everything and show me the way to reach my ideal, You who give me the divine gift to forgive and forget the wrong that is done to me and who are in all instances of my life with me. I, in this short GLDORJXH ZDQW WR WKDQN <RX IRU HYHU\WKLQJ DQG FRQÂ¿UP 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. JONJIE

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Fil-Ams celebrate 150th birthday of Gen. Antonio Luna By Abner Galino

Arguably, one of the most significant celebrations held in connection with the Filipino American History Month in the US, General Antonio Luna was honored in a simple gathering in downtown Los Angeles on Thursday (October 27). The veneration of Luna, dubbed as the greatest Filipino general of the First Philippine Republic, was timed on his 150th birthday. The event was initiated by the Philippine Institute of Language, Arts and Culture (PILAC) and the Knights of Rizal (KOR)-Historic Filipinotown chapter. â&#x20AC;&#x153;General Antonio Luna was younger brother of the great Pilipino painter Juan Luna. In fact, he was the youngest of the Luna siblings. He was also a close friend and comrade of our national hero, Dr.Jose Rizal.

He died on June 4, 1899 in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija,â&#x20AC;? PILAC founder Emily Roberts told the crowd during the opening of the program. The program was hosted by retired Philippine Navy commodore Jun Caringal. Speakers pondered on the heroism of General Luna, his skills as a military commander and his compulsion for swearing. Expectedly, the retelling of Lunaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s life ended up in his tragic murder in the hands of Filipino soldiers whose loyalties were apparently not welded yet into the nationalist spirit that the heroic general represented. Luna led the Philippine armed forces during the Filipino-American war. The war erupted right after the Filipino revolution won against the Spanish colonizers. The seniors of the Silver Lake Adult CBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s provid-

ed cultural entertainment with their â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bulaklakanâ&#x20AC;? folk dance. The seniors were led and mentored by newly elected PILAC President Bernie Targa-Ganon. PILAC also staged a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Balagtasan,â&#x20AC;? a form of debate wherein participants argue through poetic speeches. The participants debated on which language (Filipino or English) should be used by Filipinos in their day-today affairs. PILAC president Targa-Ganon argue for the use of the Filipino language while Art Garcia and Susan Adorable argued for the use of English language. The moderators or Lakandiwa were played by MackyFortu and Pastor Bautista. The crowd was later regaled by Rudy Ferran (KOR-California) with his Kundiman songs.

Vice consul Rainier Casis (middle) of the Philippine Consulate oďŹ&#x192;ce poses with PILAC president Bernie TargaGanon (3rd from right) and the members of the Silver Lake Adult CBA who provided cultural entertainment with their â&#x20AC;&#x153;Bulaklakanâ&#x20AC;? folk dance.

FBI move â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;unprecedentedâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;deeply troublingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;: Clinton WASHINGTON, Oct. 30 (PNA/PTI) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton on Sunday called â&#x20AC;&#x153;unprecedentedâ&#x20AC;? and â&#x20AC;&#x153;deeply troublingâ&#x20AC;? the FBIâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision to reopen its investigation into her use of private email server while secretary of state, with just over a week to go for the presidential election. Clinton and her campaign pressed Americaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top cop, FBI Director James Comey,

to put out the â&#x20AC;&#x153;full and complete factsâ&#x20AC;? about a renewed probe into a cache of recently discovered emails, as the development emboldened Republican rival Donald Trump to seize on to the reignited controversy. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It is pretty strange. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pretty strange to put something like that out with such little information right before an election. In fact, in fact, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just strange;itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

unprecedented,â&#x20AC;? Clinton told cheering supporters at an election rally in Florida. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And it is deeply troubling because voters deserve to get to full and complete facts,â&#x20AC;? she added as she called on Comey â&#x20AC;&#x153;to explain everything right away, put it all out on the tableâ&#x20AC;? and accused Trump of already â&#x20AC;&#x153;making up liesâ&#x20AC;? about the development in the final leg of the campaign.

Flowers for remembering the dead: Flowers of diďŹ&#x20AC;erent kinds, shapes, colors and prices are on display at the Farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Garden, Araneta Center in Cubao, Quezon City on Monday (Oct. 31, 2016) for people who will be ďŹ&#x201A;ocking to the memorial parks and cemeteries to remember their departed loved ones during the observance of All Saintsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day and All Soulsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day on Nov. 1 and 2. (PNA photo by Joey O. Razon)

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Honda announces $53-M Investment in Ohio Acura NSX named Road & Track 2017 Performance Car of the Year to strengthen North American operations TORRANCE, Calif., Oct

RAYMOND, OH, Oct 31, 2016 – Honda today announced new investment of $53 million for the construction of two buildings on its Central Ohio campus that will house information technology operations and market quality operations for Honda in North America. The 38,000-square foot Ohio Data Center will join a similar facility near Denver, Colorado, in housing key information technologies for Honda, increasing secure data storage capabilities in North America. The 98,000-square foot North American Quality Center building will consolidate operations for several Honda organizations under one roof. It will be home to Honda associates focused on product quality in the marketplace, increasing the company’s capability to study and respond to customer feedback more quickly and efficiently. “Creating a more efficient and effective way for our associates to respond to our customers is the primary goal of our new regional market quality facility,” said Rick Schostek, executive vice president of Honda North America, Inc. “The global reliance on data from North America has grown year by year and our new data center will help us manage this responsibility.” The two new facilities will be located in Raymond,

Ohio and are scheduled to be open by early 2017. Honda worked with local and state government entities on the expansion project, including Union County, JobsOhio, Columbus 2020, the Ohio Development Services Agency and the Ohio Department of Transportation. Honda in America Honda began its North America operations in Los Angeles, California, in 1959. Today, Honda companies in North America represent a cumulative investment of more than $22 billion and employ more than 40,000 associates in the design, development, manufacture, marketing, financing and servicing of Honda and Acura automobiles, Honda powersports products and Honda power equipment products. Honda has been producing products in America for more than 37 years and currently operates 19 major manufacturing facilities in North America. Honda also operates 14 major research and development centers in the U.S. with the capacity to fully design, develop and engineer many of the products Honda produces in North America. In 2015, more than 99 percent of all Honda and Acura automobiles sold in the U.S. were made in North America, using domestic and globally sourced parts. Honda in Ohio Honda’s rich history in the state of Ohio began in

September 1979 with the production of motorcycles in Marysville, Ohio. In November 1982, Honda became the first Japanese automaker to begin automobile production in the U.S. at its nearby Marysville Auto Plant. Construction of an engine plant in Anna, Ohio and a second Ohio auto plant located in East Liberty quickly followed these operations. A third automotive plant, the Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, started the exclusive production of the 2017 Acura NSX this year, the only supercar designed, developed and manufactured in the U.S. Located near its Ohio plants, Honda R&D Americas Ohio Center is Honda’s largest R&D Center outside Japan. The facility engineers all-new products for Honda and Acura customers focused leadership in fuel efficiency and product safety. Today, Honda operates 13 companies in Ohio, producing a wide range of Honda and Acura automobiles, automobile engines and transmissions. The company has continued to expand local production, and since 1982 has manufactured over 17 million automobiles in the state.

31, 2016 – The Acura NSX has been named Road & Track’s 2017 Performance Car of the Year, besting eight of the world’s finest sports cars by exhibiting a potent mix of performance, style and emotion. The Acura NSX won this year’s competition largely thanks to its unique driving experience. According to the feature in Road & Track, “For the first time in a hybrid automobile of any price or capability, technology has been placed firmly in the service of emotional involvement rather than in place of it.” The magazine goes on to say, “Everything about the car – from the way in which the brakeby-wire pedal lengthens its travel when the brakes are hot to the manner in which the mid-mounted V-6 permits itself a bit of the ol’ barbaric yawp when it’s winding out in fourth gear – is intended to enhance the driver’s involvement.” “Every aspect of the new NSX – acceleration, braking and cornering—is a precise, new experience,” said Jon Ikeda, vice president and general manager of Acura. “Having the NSX recognized by Road & Track’s esteemed group of evaluators is not only a great honor for the car, but a testament to the skill, determination and challenging spirit of our team—we are immensely proud.” Now in its fifth year, Road & Track’s Performance Car

Acura NSX named Road & Track 2017 Performance Car of the Year

of the Year award is chosen based on testing that takes place over the course of four days, two of which are dedicated to the back roads of Kentucky and Tennessee and two of which are spent on track at the National Corvette Museum Motorsports Park in Bowling Green, Kentucky. To be considered for the competition, cars need to be brand new or significantly revised for 2016. During the four-day testing process, the Road & Track editors and writers evaluate each car based on a combination of emotion, performance and value. For the performance evaluation, editors take note of acceleration, braking, handling, shift points, sound level and weight, accounting for the weather conditions present during testing. They also evaluate the engine, transmission, drivetrain, steering, tires and brakes.

The 2017 NSX launched in the spring, challenging conventional supercar thinking with a three-motor, 573 horsepower, twin-turbocharged Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) powertraini. Produced exclusively at the Performance Manufacturing Center in Marysville, Ohio, the Acura NSX is the only supercar manufactured in Americaii. The 2017 Acura NSX that won the competition featured Valencia Red Pearl Exterior paint with Semi-Aniline Red Leather and Alcantara® Power Seats, the Carbon Fiber Exterior and Interior Sport Package, Premium Audio, Signature Y-Spoke Wheels, Carbon Fiber Roof and Rear Decklid Spoiler, Carbon-Ceramic Rotors with Black Brake Calipers, Pirelli Pzero Trofeo R 245/35ZR 19XL front tires and Pirelli Pzero Trofeo R 305/30ZR 20XL rear tires.

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reating one-of-a-kind desserts doesn’t have to take hours in the kitchen or even exceptional baking skills. With a little imagination and the right tools, you can whip up surprisingly delicious sweets that will surprise and delight your friends and family. Focus on flavor If your baking repertoire typically consists of white cake and chocolate frosting, spice things up a bit by experimenting with new fillings and flavor combinations. Opt for complementary or contrasting tastes for a truly delectable dessert. For example, pair fudgy chocolate cake with tangy berries, or see how a bold flavor like lemon adds a new dimension to a mild vanilla. Add a special touch Infusing new flavors into your favorite cake or brownie recipe is surprisingly easy when you use bakeware made for the purpose. Baker’s Advantage Fillables Bakeware helps home bakers easily create “treat-filled” desserts. Each bakeware set comes with two pans: One pan creates the bottom half of the cake and forms indentations in the cake you can fill with fruit, puddings, candy and more, while the second pan creates the top half of the cake, which hides the surprise fillings. Shape it up Artfully applied frosting and other decorations can instantly dress up a basic cake, but another option is upgrading the shape of the cake itself. In addition to traditional square, round and sheet cake pans, the Baker’s Advantage Fillables Bakeware collection includes mini heart cakes, fluted cakes, mini loaf cakes and a cake cones pan. These special shapes make it easy to create enviable desserts out of classic recipes. Find more surprisingly easy dessert ideas at FillablesbyBakersAdvantage.com.

Berries and Cream Fluted Pound Cake Recipe courtesy of Baker’s Advantage/Alissa Wallers 4 sticks butter, room temperature 3 cups sugar 6 eggs 4 teaspoons vanilla extract 3 1/2 cups flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup milk, at room temperature nonstick cooking spray Heat oven to 350 F. With stand or handheld mixer, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, scraping between each egg. Add vanilla extract. Sift flour, baking powder and salt together. Add flour mixture to mixing bowl and slowly add milk while mixing. Mix until just combined. Spray Fillables Fluted Cake Pan with nonstick cooking spray. Fill bottom of both pans with batter to three-quarters full. Bake on middle rack in oven 20-25 minutes. Allow to cool before removing from pan. Filling suggestions: Blueberries, plus additional for topping Raspberries, plus additional for topping Strawberries, stem removed and cut into small pieces, plus additional for topping Vanilla Frosting (recipe at right) Fill pockets in bottom layer of pound cake with different berries. Carefully spread Vanilla Frosting over top of berries and cake. Place top layer of cake on top of frosting. Drizzle warmed up Vanilla Frosting over top of cake. Decorate top with berries.

Brownie Cake Cones

Vanilla Frosting

Recipe courtesy of Baker’s Advantage/Alissa Wallers 3 ounces unsweetened chocolate 2 sticks butter 1/2 cup cocoa powder 2 1/2 cups sugar 3 eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 1 1/2 cups flour 1/2 teaspoon salt 2 teaspoons baking powder nonstick cooking spray Vanilla Frosting (recipe at right) or ice cream Heat oven to 350 F. In double boiler, melt chocolate and butter. When melted, place in large bowl and whisk in cocoa powder until smooth. Add sugar and mix. Combine eggs and vanilla; gently mix with fork or whisk to break up eggs. Add eggs and vanilla to batter. Sift together flour, salt and baking powder. Fold in flour until just combined. Spray Fillables 8 Cup Cake Cone Pan with nonstick cooking spray. Fill bottom pan with batter to line in middle of pan then place insert on top and snap together. Place on middle of rack in oven and bake 15-18 minutes. Allow to cool before removing from pan. Filling suggestions: Graham crackers, chocolate chips and marshmallows Whipped cream and berries Ice cream or pudding Add fillings inside cone, top with Vanilla Frosting or ice cream, and serve.

Recipe courtesy of Baker’s Advantage/Alissa Wallers 3 sticks butter, unsalted and at room temperature 6 cups powdered sugar 2 teaspoons vanilla extract 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 cup heavy cream Using handheld or stand mixer, cream butter on high, about 3 minutes. Add powdered sugar 1/2 cup at a time, mixing on medium between each addition. Scrape bowl well. Add remaining ingredients; mix on low until incorporated. Turn mixer to high and beat frosting until light and fluffy, about 5 minutes. Use immediately or store in airtight container in refrigerator. Note: Frosting must be at room temperature prior to using.

Bake In the Fun Making a cake with a treat hidden inside is as easy as 1-2-3 with Fillables Bakeware from Baker’s Advantage. Because the bakeware does all of the work for you, there are no special baking skills required; just pour in the batter and bake. Then, fill the pockets in the cake with any treat you like and spread icing to cover the surprise. Next, add the top cake layer, ice the whole cake, slice and serve.

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Matatapat na Filipino Host Team sa Pechanga Resort & Casino Nag-aalay ng VIP Advantage

Ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay nagbibigay-daan sa mga pinagpipitagang VIP customers ng mga eksklusibong pinamimigay at promosyon upang maranasan ang pribilehiyong pang VIP. Ang Filipino host team ay namamahagi sa inyo ng makabagong booking sa hotel rooms, restaurants, entertainment at show tickets, bilang ng golf tees at marami pang iba. Sumali sa Pechanga Rewards Club para sa mapagkaibigan at atentibong serbisyo nina Marylou Bean, Dolores Salvador, at Vhergie DeJesus. Marylou Bean pinanganak at tubo sa Pilipinas. Dumating siya sa California taong 1980s at nagsasalita ng purong Tagalog at English. Halos 20 taong karanasan sa casino, si Marylou ay natatangi na makapagpapatunay na siya’y nagmula sa mababa tungo sa rurok ng tagumpay. Nagsimula siyang mag trabaho sa Pechanga bilang

isang Rewards Club ambassador. Nalipat sa Player Development bilang casino host. Kanyang ginampanan ang naturang tungkulin mahigit 10 taon na at palagiang bumabati sa mga bisita sa malugod, at kaanya-anyayang ngiti. Dolores Salvador, pinanganak sa Pilipinas, naghahatid ng kayamanan base sa karanasan sa kanyang tungkulin sa Pechanga Resort & Casino. Humigit sa 20-taong sa industriya ng casino, hilig niyang tumulong sa mga tao. Siya’s nagsasalita ng Visayan, Tagalog at English at karaniwang nasa Pechanga Resort & Casino upang tumulong sa mga bisita sa casino mula 2005. Si Dolores ay nananatiling aktibo sa Filipino Community sa Southern California. Vhergie DeJesus nag-aalay sa mga bisita 100-porsiyento araw-araw sa Pechanga Resort & Casino. Siya’y bihasa sa Tagalog at English at mayroong 12

taong karanasan sa industrya ng casino, gayundi’y may 10 taon sa guest service sa industriya ng hotel and restaurant management. Siya’y naging empleyado sa Pechanga Resort & casino mula 2004 at nakakilala ng libo-libong mga tao. Ang kanyang kahawa-hawang ngiti ay nakaka-engganyo upang tumawa rin ang mga tao. Chau Ly, ang Manager ng Asian Marketing, maglingkod bilang isang ambasador sa komunidad ng Asian Southern California at makikipag-ugnayan sa Asian marketing agency ng resort. Sa halos 10 taong bihasa sa larangan ng pakikisalamuha sa grupong komunidad ng Asians sa Southern California at Las Vegas, ayon sa kanya nakikinita na niya ang paglago ng Pechanga Resort & Casino sa mga bahagi na may halaga sa mga customers. Patungkol sa Pechanga Resort & Casino Inaalok ng Pechanga Re-

Pinoys statisﬁed with performance of top gov’t institutions: SWS MANILA, Oct 29 (Mabuhay) – Filipinos are generally satisfied with the performance of top government institutions, results of the Social Weather Stations’ 3rd Quarter survey showed. In an article on its official website, the SWS reported the results of its Q3 survey on Filipinos’ satisfaction with the performance of the Cabinet, Senate, House of Representatives, and the Supreme court. The net satisfaction ratings are as follows: Cabinet - Good (+36) Senate - Very Good (+52) House - Good (+38)

Supreme Court - Good (+40) According to the SWS, the 3rd quarter survey was conducted from September 2427, 2016, using face-to-face interviews of 1,200 adults (18 years old and above) nationwide. It said that Sampling distribution was 300 each in Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao, and that the survey has sampling error margins of ±3% for national percentages, and ±6% each for Metro Manila, Balance Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. SWS uses the following scale for its terminology for

PRAYERS

“Natural calamities are part of our lives and more important is how we react. These are occasions to care for others, to seek God’s guidance and mercy, to reality that we are not in complete control of everything. There is a God who is with us and loves us,” he said. The tremor struck at 7:41 a.m.

powerful earthquake to strike the country in 36 years toppled ancient buildings and left thousands of people seeking assistance and preparing for aftershocks. Some injuries were reported, but no deaths had been linked to the quake. The jolt rattled a country still recovering from a pair of quakes Wednesday and from August’s tremor that left almost 300 dead. Seismologists in Italy and Britain warned that more could be on the way.

14, 2017 at the Philippine Consulate in Manhattan, New York. Angelo’s canvasses portray almost anything under the sun. He draws living creatures and still objects which he could into generate into realistic images or weaves in his abstract and impressionist styles. Angelo has been known for his exuberant images that he builds from light colors. He intricately weaves his strokes to form a magical mix of colors and movements. While in Qatar, Angelo became a member of a group that was exclusive only Qa-

taris and Arab artists. Apparently, the Filipino artist was able to impress them as to make them waive the exclusivity rule of the said organization. In 2015, Angelo had simultaneous exhibitions in Qatar and in Tuscany, Italy (Chianciano Biennale). He was one of the 120 artists selected from over 40 countries and was the only artist from the Philippines who made it to the said exhibit. Lynn said her husband is looking forward to demonstrate his artistry here in the US, particularly to the vast Filipino-American community.

Guam for refuelling and reprovisioning,” he added. The BRP Andres Bonifacio is formerly the USCGC Boutwell which was retired from US Coast Guard service last March 16 and handed to the PN last July 21 (American time). Hamilton-class cutters have a gross tonnage of 3,250 tons, a length of 378

feet, beam of 43 feet, and draft of 15 feet. Its propulsion systems consist of two diesel engines and two gas turbine engines, giving it a top speed of 29 knots and a crew of 80 officers and enlisted personnel. The ship has cruising range of 14,000 miles and has a sea and loiter time of 45 days.

following the PCA’s ruling in favor of the Philippines’ arbitration case against China. The Hague-based arbitral tribunal’s decision invalidated China’s claims to almost all of the South China Sea using a 9-dash line map. Recently, Ramos gave “brotherly advices” to Duterte particularly on the President’s refusal to ratify the Paris Agreement on Climate Chane. Ramos said President Duterte should ratify the

Paris deal which mandates countries to make commitment to reduce their carbon emissions by 2030. President Duterte is against the ratification of the Paris agreement, saying the deal would prevent developing nations like the Philippines to achieve its economic goals including industrialization. ”We appreciate former President Fidel V. Ramos’ advice. We will be guided by the wisdom of former President,” Andanar said.

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encing the natural upheaval of our earth, a calamity that is bound to happen due to natural and geological causes.” For his part, Cubao Bishop Honesto Ongtioco believed that calamities are happening to remind the people that they are not in control of everything.

PINOY ARTIST

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On September 7 to 30, Angelo’s works were displayed side by side with the works of other noted Filipino artists in the exhibit called “Strawberry Moon Summer II” in Montserrat Gallery in Chelsea, New York. Angelo is scheduled to join an international artists group exhibit titled “Miami River Art Fair” at the Miami convention Center in Miami, Florida from December 1 to 4. But what he is really looking for, according to his wife Lynn, is his upcoming solo art exhibit on April 3 to

BRP ANDRES

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disclosed. Barring inclement weather, BRP Andres Bonifacio is scheduled to leave the US Coast Guard base in Alameda, California this coming Nov. 1 (American time). “She will be at sea for 26 days, passing San Diego, California, Hawaii, and

FVR QUITS

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instead agreed that bilateral talks should settle the South China Sea or West Philippine Sea dispute. Ramos on Monday reportedly confirmed his resignation after President Duterte’s fruitful state visit in China from Oct. 18 to 21. The country’s former leader, one of the big personalities who convinced Duterte to run in the last May 9 elections, was appointed as special envoy to China

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SOUTH KOREAN

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any official position in the country’s administration, is suspected of having a long record of intervening in Park’s decisions, including those directly involving South Korea’s foreign and domestic policies. According to South Korean opposition newspaper The Hankyoreh, the president was fully controlled by Choi through Park’s three senior advisers. “I decided to join the candlelight rally today because this total nonsense involving President Park and Choi has reached well beyond its limit,” said Shin Sook-hee, 40, who came from Suwon with her 10-year-old daughter. Many of the people attending voted for president Park during in the 2012 election that brought her to power. According to media

reports, there are also many students both from high schools and universities. Choi’s daughter Chung Yoora is accused of receiving special treatment during her admission process to attend Ewha Womans University, thanks to her mother’s connection to President Park. “We are out in the streets today because we feel the basic tenets of democracy have been shattered by the president herself,” said Won Seung-jae, a high school senior from Incheon. The rally, which lasted five hours, ended peacefully and without conflict, but tension remains high. Choi voluntarily arrived in South Korea the same day to face interrogation, saying she is going to fully cooperate with the investigation,

ay tampok na destinasyon na tumutugon at humihigit sa kagustuhan ng mga panauhin nito at ng komunidad. Ang Pechanga Resort & Casino ay pag-aari at palakad ng Pechanga Band ng mga Luiseño Indians. Para sa karagdagang impormasyon, tumawag ng toll-free sa 1-877-711-2946 o pumunta sa www.Pechanga.com. according to her legal representative Lee Kyung-jae. President Park has ordered at least 10 presidential advisors to resign following the scandal. Three secretaries, who local media outlets call Park’s closest aides, also stepped down. One of them reportedly delivered presidential speeches and documents to Choi regularly. Park has offered apologies for the situation, saying that Choi only “gave her advice” during the initial period of Park’s leadership. According to some reports, it is expected that the whole government including the prime minister will be dismissed. However, it remains uncertain whether such measures will satisfy the public or whether the president herself will eventually be forced to resign.