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Verbatim Sana at dapat. Mahirap namang magkaroon ulit tayo ng magnanakaw na president.

Senator Antonio Trillanes IV, on whether revelations in the Senate probe of alleged ill-gotten wealth of Vice President Binay and his family would hurt the veep’s chances of becoming president

Totoo ho ba o hindi? Kailangan ho matuldukan yan, kailangan may closure yan, at kung totoo yan kailangan meron hong accountabiltiy at the end of the day.

Justice Secretary Leila de Lima, explaining the decision of the Department of Justice to investigate the charges of corruption hurled by former Makati officials against Vice President Binay and his family

The Filipino people have no choice; we have to keep on fighting. We have to PAGE AD FULL remain adamant in the belief that good will triumph over evil, and that good governance will triumph over corruption. He is already old Senator Miriam Defensor and he is still lying. Santiago, lamenting the “epidemic of scandals” in government involving ranking officials accused of corruption

We have no choice but to go through housecleaning, even if it’s painful to some of us. Supreme Court Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno, on the high court’s decision to dismiss Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Gregory Ong for violation of the judicial code of conduct after being linked to alleged pork barrel scam mastermind Janet Lim Napoles

Former President Joseph Estrada, reacting to the claim of his predecessor, Fidel Ramos, that Estrada had tried to have the late dictator Ferdinand Marcos buried at Libingan ng mga Bayani a few days before he took his oath as president in June 1998

Okey na sa mas bata, kaysa naman sa may asawa. O, ‘di ba, naninira ng pamilya!

Ai-Ai de las Alas, on why she prefers younger men. Her current boyfriend is a 20-year-old student of De La Salle University. The comedienne, who turns 50 in November, split from her 28year-old husband one month after they tied the knot in Las Vegas last year.

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Can Binay sustain his high ratings till Election Day?

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Will the administration party gamble on Roxas again?

Will the growing clamor for her to seek the presidency prove irresistible for Grace Poe?

A Frantic Search for Viable Candidates

By manny valdehuesa

HAT a lousy fix our society is in today. No statesmen on sight. No inspiring voice. No one to inspire or lift the hopes of a generation in search of heroes and role models. No one to shine a light at the end of the tunnel. Whence came the likes of Ninoy Aquino, Raul Manglapus, Jose Diokno, Emmanuel Pelaez, Jovito Salonga, Lorenzo Tanada, Claro Recto, and so on? Can a nation’s well of nationalism or patriotism run dry? As for good governance, there’s no serious party system in operation; no party bothering to hold a nominating convention, not even to evolve a platform we can take seriously. Is anyone concerned about the poor state of our political system? How about our destiny as a people? Is P-Noy’s vague notion of Daang Matuwid all we have for road map? How can we hack it with just a poor collection of traditional politicians—trapos, uninspiring, off-putting, tiresome people that hardly offer a decent menu from which to choose leaders for a Republic of 100 million Filipinos? There’s not likely to be a constitutional amendment to allow

P-Noy to run for re-election; so for the Liberal Party, holding out for him is out of the question. As for the Nacionalistas, today a poor, decrepit shadow of its glory days—what does it stand for except as a vehicle of convenience for some wealthy oligarch with no particular imprint to make a mark on our political system? There’s the so-called United Nationalist Alliance: alliance for what, plunder?—as in what Erap was jailed for, or Juan Ponce Enrile now also jailed, or Jojo Binay who seems headed similarly? Jojo Binay’s vaunted rating earlier on as front-runner in the presidential sweepstakes is fast eroding, the outlook for his candidacy dimming. It looks like his so-called UNA will be kulelat, last, with no one in reserve if he self-destructs. Still, he shops around for a willing vice-presidential lamb while claiming to be on the verge of forming a new party, as if doing

so were as simple as getting a business permit in Makati. As for Mar Roxas, who knows what will happen…he hasn’t been able to connect with people the way he did as “Mr. Palengke” and—given his bland image—it doesn’t look like he’s going to gain the high ground anytime soon, although he can’t be counted out just yet. Meanwhile, the list of wannabes grows: the Cayetano from Taguig, the Trillanes of Oakwood, both striving to be noticed, but with no one gaining traction. Then there’s fussy Lady Miriam getting into the act as well, titillating Grace Poe, Rodrigo Duterte…or anyone who cares to jump in! There’s clearly a dearth of good, credible candidates for 2016, punctuated by the frantic rush in various unhappy circles to identify or name anyone but these that who might have potential. What’s disconcerting is not that there are no Filipinos who might deserve the honor and be nominated; it’s the utter lack of initiative in identifying who might there be, how they might be nominated, or how enticed to serve our society. Out of a population of 100 million, with so many educated

and experienced in so many fields, who could compare favorably with the elites of world society, it’s preposterous not having possible nominees from among the best, the brightest, and best regarded. This wouldn’t be Mission Impossible if only we had a proper party system or if those who care enough would only work to force the pretentious parties to shape up or ship out. Sure, there are groups pushing the candidacy of some individuals. But they’re not making a coherent case for their choice. The least they can do is state their case and justify their choice. In other words, what criteria do they use in making the choice? The notable lack of criteria—a definition of what or who would make a good candidate or leader—is utterly discomfiting. They should at least situate their choice in the proper context. For example, what is at issue for 2016 is the presidency. It requires the highest possible qualities, attributes, or qualifications in a person. Someone to lead our society! For such a momentous role, you can’t just pick any old hat, martinet, or ambitious wannabe! ((MindaNews) n

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OFW terminal fee launch delayed to November

HE INTEGRATION of the airport terminal fee into the cost of an international airline ticket will be implemented effective Nov. 1 and not Oct. 1 as earlier announced to give passengers more time to learn its mechanics, the Manila International Airport Authority (Miaa) said. To avoid long queues of international passengers paying the terminal fee, the Miaa announced that the P550 international passenger service charge or terminal fee was to be included in the airline ticket cost starting 1 October. The start of the one-year transition program, however, had to be delayed another month “to give more time for affected passengers, especially those exempted from the terminal fee,” the Miaa said. Vicente Guerzon Jr., Miaa officer in charge, said the postponement of the fee implementation was decided after consultation with OFW partylist Rep. Roy Señere. “Transportation Secretary Jo-

FULL PAGE AD Integration of the airport terminal fee will be implemented on Nov. 1, a month later. seph Emilio Abaya agreed to the deferment, to adequately inform passengers about the mechanics of the implementation,” Guerzon said, adding that they expected no further

deferments on Nov. 1. The integration will be implemented simultaneously by all airlines nationwide covering passengers who are flying from Manila to any destination. The

Miaa said the process would be fully implemented by October next year. Exempted from payment of the terminal fee are overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Muslim pilgrims endorsed by the National Commission on Muslim Filipinos, athletes endorsed by the Philippine Sports Commission, and those authorized by the Office of the President. But Susan Ople of the Blas F. Ople Policy Center said that OFW groups in different countries are dismayed over the MIAA’s decision to push through with the implementation. “We urge the MIAA and DOTC to respect the provisions of the Migrant Workers’ Act of 1995, as amended by Republic Act No. 1022 that clearly grant to all overseas workers an exemption from paying the airport terminal fee,” she said. “Obtaining a refund is already an admission that such fees were paid thus negating a specific benefit granted to our OFWs by law,” Ople added. (Inquirer)

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A Picture Is Worth a Thousand Words

Aerial shot of the mansion and maze-like garden patterned after the Kew Gardens in London.

IGURES are no match to pictures. That much is apparent once again in the case of Vice President Jejomar Binay and the allegations of unexplained wealth against him and his family.

Those allegations have been around for years, ever since the former human rights lawyer became mayor of the country’s most prosperous city and founded a political dynasty that would eventually see his wife and son succeed him at Makati City Hall, and two other children occupy seats in Congress. On the strength of his seemingly invulnerable grip on the city of Makati, Binay himself was able to pole-vault into the second highest office in the land. But building that political bulwark, let alone accumulating and replenishing a war chest that would see each aspiring family member triumph in election after election, obviously required money. As Makati mayor, Binay’s salary was P32,000. And yet, as Newsbreak reported as early as 2001, in less than a decade he had acquired properties worth P80 million, including a farm in Batangas, condominium units in posh enclaves in Makati, a mansion in Tagaytay—but all of them undeclared in his or his wife’s statement of assets, liabilities and net worth. Despite those multimillionpeso price tags, the charges

The Batangas farm has, among others, an air-conditioned piggery, a flower farm of pricey orchids, a fighting cock farm, a manmade lagoon, a resort swimming pool, a 40-car garage, and a maze-like garden. didn’t stick or gain traction. After 2001, Binay continued to be voted into office by Makati residents grateful for his social services programs that ensured free medicines, free movies and free birthday cakes. Those long years in power fortified his position even further, allowing him to post a spectacular comefrom-behind victory over vicepresidential front-runner Mar Roxas in the 2010 elections. But, as Binay moves toward what he believes is the next logical (his handlers would say ordained) step in his supposed presidential destiny, questions about the sources of his wherewithal have resurfaced, and this time they appear ready to stew longer in the public mind. He now has to contend with something completely unforeseen when he began plotting his ascendancy: social media and the viral phenomenon. In 2001, in reply to News-

break’s allegations, Binay said, “These charges are a rehash of old election issues”—and that was that. Now, as technology has become cheaper to take photos, peer into previously closed-off properties, even hire a chopper to fly over an agricultural estate said to be six times bigger than Luneta Park, Binay is bedeviled by the reality that also led to the downfall of then President Joseph Estrada: Pictures of their alleged unexplained wealth are making an impact on the public much more than plain figures on paper can ever do. The pictures that former Binay right-hand man Ernesto Mercado showed at the Senate of a 350-hectare property in Batangas (conservative estimate of worth: P1.2 billion) supposedly owned by the Binays have not only been published in this newspaper but have also exploded in social media, and

is boggling the minds of ordinary citizens. For good reason: In the farm are, among others, an air-conditioned piggery, a flower farm of pricey orchids, a manmade lagoon, even a mazelike garden patterned after the Kew Gardens in London. The Vice President has called Mercado’s charges a dud and a hallucination, saying that the estate is not his. But the property’s history and ownership indicate at the very least the possibility of a dummy arrangement. Residents of the surrounding area also attest to Binay himself frequenting the farm. This story will not die simply with a curt dismissal from the VP and his spokespersons. Figures may fly over the heads of many people, but the pictures are making their mark. (Editorial titled ‘Pictures’, Philippine Daily Inquirer, Oct. 11, 2014) n

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New Bitcoin Wallet App Targets PH Remittance Market

HILIPPINES-BASED exchange Coins.ph released a mobile bitcoin wallet app with features the company says are aimed squarely at emerging market use cases. As well as standard wallet functions, the Android-only app allows users to buy and sell bitcoin through various channels, top up prepaid mobile phones, pay bills, and even work as a mobile remittance service by converting to Philippines pesos. Coins.ph CEO Ron Hose said the intent is to provide simple solutions starting from the most basic, giving everyone a safe and convenient way to use their money. “With our bitcoin wallet, customers enjoy similar perks t o those t h e y would get from having a bank account, minus the barriers for setting one up. Most importantly, keeping a Coins.ph wallet is free.” Sending money home The app’s remittance features makes it useful not just for the islands’ residents, but also for the millions of Filipinos living in other countries around the world. Users can select an outlet from the app’s long list of banks and payment processors, with useful notes advising how much each charges in fees. Some processors (generally the most expensive) will deliver cash door-to-door, others allow for customer pickup. Customers can walk into any of over 5,000 retail locations to buy or sell their bitcoins. To send money from overseas, it’s possible to send bitcoins directly from an existing balance or perform a cash-to-cash remittance. A user can initiate the remittance in-app and deposit cash in any bitcoin ATM around the world. The app provides a QR code for the ATM to scan, and pesos are delivered automati-

because the costs of operating branches, armored trucks, etc. are just too high to economically serve a customer whose savings rate is very low,” Hose said. “Digital currencies and mobile phones are cutting these costs down, and are going to change the landscape of financial inclusion globally.”

Can we remit moneyto our loved ones using bitcoin in the future? Coins.ph thinks this is possible.

c a l l y des-

to the preferred country where as much as 75% t i nFULL a t i o n PAGE of AD the population remains by the ‘unbanked’ and fewer than 5% have credit cards. High fees and long lines, Hose next added, are the norm for busithose who can afford them n e s s least. day. “Traditional banking will never reach these people, Key market The Philippines’ remittance market is huge, with around $23bn-worth of incoming transfers to the country in 2013 and an additional $30-$60m sent domestically. This has led to a focus on the country as a test bed for one of digital currency’s most frequently-touted killer apps: the chance to side-step existing international transfer options. At least three bitcoin startups are actively chasing the worldwide Filipino remittance market. As well as Coins.ph, competitors Rebit.ph and BuyBitcoin.ph are also adding features and building relationships with financial services businesses. According to this TED presentation by economist Dilip Ratha, $413bn was sent in remittances worldwide in 2013 – about three times the total sent in foreign aid. Banks optional Unlike popular exchanges and apps in the developed world, Coins.ph users don’t need to link their accounts to bank accounts to buy and sell bitcoin. This is particularly useful in a

Expansion plans Coins.ph says it is also developing a system for bill payments, allowing a family member in a country like Qatar or Canada to pay utility or tuition bills directly from the app or website for Philippines-based relatives. The company has plans to expand throughout Southeast Asia, hoping to tap into the region’s 620 million unbanked population. Earlier this year it opened a second exchange, Coins.co.th, in Thailand. The mobile app, Android-only at present, is available for download from Coins.ph or the Google Play store. (Coindesk)

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PH Poised to Become A Rising Star of Asia

The Philippines has made remarkable progress on governance reform, including anticorruption measures, budgeting based on results, and more transparent procurement systems.

By takehiko nakao

HE Philippines has long had promise as a regional star with its well-resourced islands and renowned, capable workforce. Having fallen short of its potential in the past, recent changes are positioning the country to become Asia’s next rising star. Over the past decade, the Philippine economy has bounced back from the external debt crisis in the 1980s and the Asian financial crisis in the late 1990s. Gross domestic product (GDP) growth has averaged 5 percent since 2000, significantly higher than in the previous two decades. In 2013, the Philippines grew by 7.2 percent—the highest growth rate among the major economies of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. To fulfill its potential, however, the country must tackle tough challenges. While blessed with a large young workforce, its 16.5 percent youth unemployment rate—more than double the overall official national rate—remains a pressing concern. It is not ideal that 10 percent of the population should work abroad. The Philippines needs more quality jobs. Poverty has declined, but almost a quarter of the population is still considered poor. And in this final year of the Millennium Development Goals, the Philippines is behind targets on primary education, maternal and child health, and infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis. The country has taken some important steps. Recently I vis-

ited Mindanao—the country’s poorest region, but one with immense development potential, including diversified agriculture and tourism. The historic signing of the Comprehensive Agreement on the Bangsamoro provides greater opportunity for peace and development in Mindanao. Overall, the country has made considerable progress in political stability. Indeed, security and political stability is part of an eightpoint development agenda I have been thinking about. The remaining seven points of what I call a “back to basics” agenda are: macroeconomic stability, investment in infrastructure, investment in human capital, an open trade and investment regime, good governance, a well-articulated and shared development strategy, and a commitment to inclusive growth. Macroeconomic stability in the Philippines has been strengthened, thanks to fiscal and budget reforms as well as the independence of the Bangko Sentral. Inflation is under control. Smaller fiscal deficits, lower public debt and a stronger banking sector underpin the sovereign investment grade ratings attained in 2013. Progress has been made in improving human capital. The

Conditional Cash Transfer program links cash benefits to education and health for over four million families. The government has raised its education budget and added two years to high school to improve job readiness. It is also enhancing vocational and skills training to better match private-sector needs and build a competitive workforce. Yet, there is much more to be done. First is investment in infrastructure. Underdeveloped transport links and expensive power with looming shortages are among the major constraints to growth. The government has already raised its infrastructure budget to an equivalent of 3 percent of GDP in 2014 and 5 percent of GDP by 2016. Yet this is still lower than many other developing countries, such as Sri Lanka (6 percent) and Vietnam (9 percent). Second is an open trade and investment regime. Here, recent improvements in the Philippines are reflected in global-competitiveness rankings. The government has recently allowed the full entry of foreign banks to the country. It is pushing for legislation including the proposed Antitrust Law to strengthen competition in industries. More can always be done. For instance, greater access to finance for small and medium businesses can help facilitate their critical role in job creation and growth, especially in rural areas. Third, good governance is not just about fairness. With-

out good governance, people may divert their energy from innovation and hard work to unproductive activities. I am pleased to see the progress the Philippines has made on governance reform, including anticorruption measures, budgeting based on results, and more transparent procurement systems. Fourth, one of the most important tasks of government is to have a clear vision or strategy for development, which transcends administrations and is shared by the people. While we know that the private sector is an engine for growth in any country, it is the responsibility of the government to set policies in line with the national strategy, prioritize its spending and investments, and appropriately guide the private sector. Finally, growth must be made more inclusive. Without shared values and a collective interest, sustainable growth cannot be achieved. Greater inclusiveness can be pursued in the Philippines through the government’s strategy of raising public investments in infrastructure, agriculture, health and education, particularly in the Visayas and Mindanao. In the 1960s, when Asian leaders chose Manila to host the ADB’s headquarters, the Philippines was second in economic development only to Japan. I believe that, building on its recent progress, the country can return to its place among Asia’s leading economies. n (The author is president of the Asian Development Bank.)

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By jarius bondoc

HE bishops’ synod that opened in Rome on Oct. 5 was a Catholic event. But its results could sway secular governments and institutions. Two hundred hierarchs, catechists, and plain laymen are to tackle family-related issues in changing times. Not only hot items like birth control or same-sex marriage will be tabled, but also the role of families as building blocks of society. Pope Francis broke taboo a few weeks ago in marrying 20 live-in couples, one with children. It hinted the direction of the two-week synod.

OFWs in Hong Kong on their rest day.

OFW Experience:

At What Cost to Family? Filipinos too can reflect on the OFW phenomenon in relation to the family. There are 11 million overseas Filipino workers – over a tenth of the population. In any family gathering of ten, one member is bound to be absent because he is working abroad. They supposedly boost the economy with the money they send home – a record $25.2 billion last year. But at what social cost – in incomplete or broken families? The figures above show that OFWs on average each remitted $2,291 or P103,100 in 2013. That’s only P8,600 a month – barely enough for dorm, food, and transport fare of one OFW kid off to college in the big city. Excluded are the tuition and outlays for the OFW’s other children. They leave the love of fam-

ily for years, to serve foreign masters, likely cruel, in strange lands, likely war-torn, for that puny send-home? Not all OFWs are penurious, some would say. Like, very gainfully employed are the 366,865 Filipino seafarers, one in every four worldwide, who remitted $4 billion last year. That’s $10,903 or P490,650 on average from each. The monthly P40,890 bought their families better food, clothing, shelter, health care, and schooling. Too, there are those who leave simply for independence and wanderlust. Still, most OFWs work abroad because of no jobs in the homeland. They aim to buy the children happiness and the best education. Statistics tend to negate them, though. Years ago as head of a national association of colleges, Jose Rizal

When will mother come home? University president Vicente K. Fabella studied the impact of OFWs’ family separation. It appeared that one in every four OFW spouses separate. And up to two in five OFW children drop out of college because of lack of parental guidance. The effect of parents’ departures on toddlers and pre-teens are worse. Moppet Cenizal Gonzales of Ugat Foundation says many teary mothers depart for overseas jobs without proper goodbyes. Some leave while the children are in bed, or promise to be back by dusk. Emotionally traumatized, the youngsters grow afraid of sleeping, or wait long hours every day by

the house gate. There are those who, because simplistically told that mom or dad works abroad “for you,” blame themselves if the parents separate. Cenizal-Gonzales’s group has a program called Panatag (tranquil, secure) helping a few hundred OFW families cope. But the number of those needing psychological soothing grows faster. About 190 OFWs depart every hour for overseas posting. Success stories always warm the heart. In September two Filipinas passed the Frankfurt state board, earning them licenses to high-pay work as registered nurses. The first to notch such merit, they actually hold bachelor’s degrees in nursing in the Philippines, but were first hired in Germany as orderlies. Also in September 300 Filipina domestics in Hong Kong passed the Philippine licensing for teacher, their true profession. They can now return to work at newly hiked pay in public schools. But they’re only a wee fraction of the 170,000 struggling OFWs in the Chinese island. Some OFWs never return. About 800 die abroad per year. Around 3,000 are languishing in prison – their lives and family dreams shattered. (The Philippine Star) n

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Showbuzz Piolo: I Wish KC Didn’t Do Breakup Interview Kylie and Rayver: So happy together

Kylie on Rayver: I Like Him KYLIE Padilla admitted that her dad, Robin Padilla, approves of Rayver Cruz to be her next boyfriend. Asked by reporters how her dad sizes up Rayver, Kylie replied, “Actually, gusto niya ‘to [Rayver]. Siya ang may sabi, ‘Anak, mabait ‘yon.’” Kylie was tickled pink by her father’s comment about her co-star in the upcoming movie Dilim. “Tama ‘yon,” she said. “Ayaw ko na ng drama. . . Masaya ako kay Rayver kasi sobrang bait. Maganda ‘yong chemistry.” Kylie stressed that she and Rayver are not yet in a relationship. “Masaya na ako sa ganun, may kaibigan na ako sa ABS-CBN,” said Kylie, who is a GMA-7 contract talent. She said she is till relishing her freedom months after her breakup with fellow Kapuso star Aljur Abrenica. “Take time muna kasi ang fresh pa nung nangyari. Masarap ‘yong freedom. . . Ayaw kong madaliin. Kasi kapag ako ang nai-in love todo, e.” Pressed by reporters if she would be open to a new romance if Rayver would pursue her, she gushed, “Oo, kasi I like him. Pero ayaw ko rin pinipilit.” n

THREE years after his publicized breakup with KC Concepcion, Piolo Pascual finally opened up about the controversy in a recent TV special dedicated to his career. In a special episode on E! News Asia aired last Sept. 28, Piolo commented on KC’s TV interview in November 2011 where the actress announced their breakup: “Either way, she was going to come out with it, and you know what I felt? I felt bad for her, because she didn’t have to resort to that.” “I still love her, you know, with all my heart, but it’s just something that she did that I wish she didn’t do,” he added. In that November 2011 interview with Boy Abunda on The Buzz, KC spoke vaguely about the reason for her split from Piolo: “May mga hinahanap ako

na napaka-basic lang na hanapin ng isang babae sa isang boyfriend, sa isang lalaki, . . Ayaw ko na siguro pumunta sa details kasi parang ayaw kong siraan siya.” KC’s confession raised questions about Piolo’s supposed infidelity and sexuality. Speaking to reporters recently, Piolo said he was not aware that his brief comment about KC’s interview would be shown in the E! News Asia episode. “I said what I said. Huwag na nating palakihin ‘yon. Para sa akin two years na ‘yon,” he said. “As much as possible

Piolo and KC in

ayaw ko nang magsalita about it. We didn’t know what was going to come out. When I was interviewed, no anything about her... I didn’t know what they (network) were going to release it.” In the same show, Piolo revealed that he had his son Inigo undergo DNA testing to confirm their blood ties. n

Charice Laments ‘Bullying’ from Pinoys CHARICE Pempengco is hurting from the “bullying” she has received from fellow Filipinos. Writing on her Instagram account, the 22-year-old singer expressed doubt as to whether her countrymen are truly proud of her after earning international recognition over the years. Since she debuted on American television in 2007, Charice has gone on tour with Canadian composer David Foster, released albums internationally, nabbed a guest role in the TV musical Glee, and appeared in the comedy movie Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squekquel, among others. Despite these achievements, according to Charice,

Charice: Mahal ba ako ng sarili kong bansa? Filipino viewers tend to dwell on her supposed shortcomings and continue to criticize her for her looks, her personal life, and more recently, her sexuality. “Ang showbiz dito sa Pilipi-

nas, mahirap,” she wrote. “‘Di ko alam ang status ko, kung mahal ba ako ng sarili kong bansa o kailangan ko paring iprove ‘yung sarili ko? . . . Napasama ako sa mga malalaking TV shows, pero pagdating ko dito, iba pa rin ang hinahanap as akin, iba pa rin ang nilalait sa akin -- pananalita ko, itsura ko, mga sinusuot ko, buhok ko, sekswalidad ko, buhay ko, lahat na. “Napapagkamalan akong mayabang. Dahil ba nakatungtong [ako] ng ibang bansa? Pinagtatawanan ako dati kasi raw mali-mali Ingles ko, . . May oras na puro laman ng news ay halos issues kaysa sa achievements na nakukuha ko. n

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The Philippines as an expat and tax haven

ESPITE THE horrendous traffic, inadequate infrastructure, poor broadband connectivity and scant job opportunities that prompted about a tenth of the populace to seek greener pastures overseas, the Philippines is still one of the top 10 countries most favored by expats. The Philippines ranked 8th of 61 countries evaluated based on the 2014 survey report of Expat Insider, run by InterNations, which is the first international online community for people who live and work abroad. This new report was based on insights drawn from 14,000 respondent-expats scattered across 160 countries. Topping the list of expats’ favorites was Ecuador, followed by Luxembourg (2nd), Mexico (3rd), Switzerland (4th), the United States (5th), Singapore (6th) and Spain (7th). The Philippines ranked higher than Australia (9th) and Hong Kong (10th). On the other hand, the least popular among expats were Greece, Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. Based on the 197-page report, the Philippines does not really offer much in terms of quality of life. In fact, it obtained mediocre scores in subcategories like leisure options and travel, as well as health, safety and well-being. Neither does it rank high in attracting expats due to lucrative job openings. However, the tourism department’s campaign slogan that it’s “more fun in the Philippines” has gained credence with the high scores given by expats when it comes to finding “personal happiness,” ease of settling in, finding local friends, family life (including availability of childcare and education) as well as ease in managing personal finance and cost of living.

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The Philippines is included in the top 10 most favoured by expats, as well as being moved to a tax haven white list by OECD. The Philippines is also seen as a paradise for single expats. “Some countries just stand out when it comes to romance. Greece, Chile, Argentina, Mexico, and the Philippines are our top spots for expat romance. These are the destinations with some of the highest percentages of expats who either met their partner in their country of residence or whose partner comes from that country. But that’s not all: They also scored well in other matters of the heart, such as the share of participants who are blissfully happy with their romantic relationship.” At 66 percent, the share of people who are in a relationship with a local resident is the highest in the Philippines compared to any another country. Other top contenders are Argentina (55 percent), Chile (54 percent), Mexico (54 percent) and Greece (53 percent) which

also show results that lie far above the global average of 31 percent The Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development has officially removed t h e Philip-

p i n e s from its tax haven grey list and placed it onto the approved white list. Countries on the grey list, currently including Liberia, Panama and Uruguay, are places

that have yet to completely fall in line with OECD regulations. The Philippines were previously on this list but since April 2009 the country has worked to meet legislative reforms and the OECD has now moved it on to the white list. The Philippines removal from the grey list will now allow it to gain investments from other OECD white list countries, including Japan and the United States. To gain its place on the white list the Philippines created a revenue regulation that was put in place by the Bureau of Internal Revenue, which puts into practice Republic Act 1002. This allows the Bureau of Internal Revenue to exchange financial information to the internationally-agreed tax standard. Previously, the OECD also had a black list, this list was for countries that had not met any of the tax standards laid out by the OECD. This list is now completely empty.

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Showbuzz Derek, ExWife Drop Proposed Settlement

No Wedding Bells Yet for Bea, Zanjoe BEA Alonzo said she and boyfriend Zanjoe Marudo won’t be rushed into tying the knot despite the recent spate of marriage proposals among her colleagues in showbiz. “Hayaan muna natin sila. Ibigay muna natin sa kanila yung moment,” said Bea when asked if she has any wedding plans in the near future. She said marriage is not yet in the horizon. “Di ba, bilang babae meron tayong, ‘Kung ako kaya?’ But hindi naman parang seryoso. Yung mga ganun lang, ang sarap pag-isipan. Pero matagal pa yun (wedding).” Local showbiz is currently in a wedding and engagement frenzy, with several celebrities getting engaged this year— among them Marian Rivera and

MARY Christine Jolly formally submitted her reply affidavit to the Makati Prosecutor’s Office on Sept. 25 after her proposed agreement with estranged husband Derek Ramsay was dropped. Mary was supposed to submit her reply affidavit on Sept. 18, but decided against it because she and Derek agreed on a proposed settlement. This was still in connection with a case she filed against the actor’s violation of RA 9262 or the AntiViolence Against Women and their Children Act. Mary’s camp accused Derek of insulting them by insinuating that she is only after his money

Bea: We’re not ready yet.

Dingdong Dantes, Heart Evangelista and Sen. Francis Escudero, and most recently, John Prats and Isabel Oli. The 26-year-old actress said she and Zanjoe have not talked about when they will get married. However, she added that Zanjoe is open about wanting to settle down with her. She also said they have good relations with each other’s families. “Siyempre masaya ako na gusto nila ako maging kapamilya nila. Pero hindi pa kami ready,” Bea said. “Pero sobrang close ako sa family niya, close siya sa family ko.” She added: “Happy ako kasi, siyempre, wala na akong ibang hihilingin na makatuluyan kundi siya (Zanjoe).” n

Mary Christine even though Mary said she was merely asking for financial support for their 11-year-old son. Mary also didn’t like Derek’s insinuations that she pushed their son to write a letter submitted to the fiscal where the boy said that Derek abandoned him and that his father did not provide for him. Derek’s camp doesn’t believe the son wrote that letter because an 11-year-old cannot write a letter “as angry and spiteful as that letter.” Derek’s lawyers said they did not continue with the settlement agreed earlier because Mary’s “wrong” interpretation of the trust fund Derek would like to set up for his son. n

Vhong, Lee to Fight It Out in Court THE camps of Vhong Navarro and Cedric Lee have failed to reach a settlement in relation to the grave coercion charge led by the TV host-actor against the businessman and his co-accused in connection with the mauling of Vhong by the group of Lee last January. Vhong and Lee once again faced each other at the Taguig Hall of Justice on Oct. 2 for the judicial dispute resolution (JDR) on the said case. Since the opposing sides said no to a compromise, the court will proceed with the trial on the grave coercion case. According to Vhong’s camp, they are intent on pursuing the charges against Simeon Raz, Jr., Deniece Cornejo, and

Vhong at a court appearance the others facing trial following a recent decision allowing the release of the accused from detention. Lee, Raz and Cornejo were also charged with serious illegal detention, still in relation to the January incident. The three were allowed to post bail last month. n

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SSS to launch new contact centre for OFWs

TARTING OCTOBER, close to one million overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) will have easier means to benefit from the programs and services of the Social Security System (SSS). In a statement, the SSS said it will launch a newly created OFW Contact Center Unit (OFW-CSU) that will handle direct contact points for OFWs to allow for a more differentiated servicing and faster resolution of their SSS concerns. For its initial operations, the OFW-CSU will provide dedicated e-mail support and local call services from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays. In addition, a special assistance desk will be available at the SSS main office in Diliman, Quezon City, for walk-in transactions of OFWs, such as registration and issuance of SS numbers, enrolment in Flexi-fund Program, and verification of SSS records. It will also provide OFW members assistance in filing their loans, benefit claims and other SSS applications. “The creation of a specialized contact unit for OFWs will enable us to identify their distinct needs and address them accordingly,” said SSS senior vice president and international operations division head Judy Frances A. See. “It will also help us manage the level of transactions with other member service facilities more effectively,” she added. “We understand the unique circumstances of our Kababayan abroad, and so we continue to find ways to make the SSS more accessible to them. The creation of a specialized contact unit for OFWs will enable us to identify their distinct needs and address them accordingly. It will also help us manage the level of transactions with other member service facilities more effectively,” See explained. OFWs and their families in the Philippines can reach the OFW-CSU by e-mail at ofw.relations@sss.gov.ph or through their service hotlines, (02) 3647796 and (02) 374-7798. See said additional channels and service facilities have been

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The SSS is launching a new contact centre meeting the needs of millions of OFWs worldwide starting October. lined up for implementation to fully complement the unit’s operations. “We will open international tollfree numbers so OFWs across the globe can call us without having charges on their end,” she said. “OFW-CSU’s operating hours will also be extended to 24/7 once the required systems are in place.” Other services that will be rolled out soon include online contact points that utilize VoIP and instant messaging platforms. “This is still part of our campaign to reach out to Filipino workers here and abroad and ensure their continuing coverage under the SSS. We want not only to increase SSS membership of OFWs but also to ensure active membership. Considering the voluntary nature of their coverage, we can only achieve both by giving them a consistent good experience with our services,” See said. The SSS reported a total of 983,262 OFW members as of June 2014. Based on the 2013 POEA Compendium of OFW Statistics, more than 1.8-million OFWs were deployed in 2013. (GMA News)

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Lea Salonga, the trailblazer

From Lea to Eva:

The original cast of ‘Miss Saigon’ led by Lea Salonga (3rd from left) together with the current cast led by Eva Noblezada (7th from left) pose for a souvenir photo after their special 25th anniversary show in London.

‘Miss Saigon’ W Lives On

HEN people talk about the musical Miss Saigon, Broadway star and The Voice of the Philippines judge Lea Salonga quickly comes to mind.

After all, Lea was the original Kim in this musical by Claude-Michel Schönberg and Alain Boublil set during the Vietnam War, which premiered 25 years ago. For her performance in London’s West End and on Broadway, Lea won the Olivier and the Tony for best lead actress in a musical. She also received the Drama Desk, Outer Critics Circle and Theatre World Awards for her moving portrayal of a Vietnamese bar girl abandoned by her American soldier. On Sept. 22, Lea, along with original cast members Jonathan Pryce and Simon Bowman, joined the current cast of Miss Saigon in a special performance in London to mark the 25th year of the musical.

The West End revival of Miss Saigon, which opened in May, once again features a young Filipina in the title role. Eva Noblezada, a Fil-American teenager, has received glowing reviews for her performance as Kim. Two other Filipinas -- Tanya Manalang (alternate) and Jul i a

Abueva (understudy) – are in the current run. The three are the latest in a long list of around 50 Filipinas who have worn Kim’s white cheongsam, given that Miss Saigon has over the years played in 300 cities in 28 countries and in 15 languages. Here are the 10 Pinays who have taken on the role of Kim after Lea’s trailblazing performance in 1989 (in alphabetical order).

1. Joan Almedilla (Broadway) -- Born and raised in Cebu, Joan began singing and playing guitar at an early age, competing in her first contest at the age of five. She attended college in Manila before moving to New York to continue her studies in communications at Hofstra University.

Eva Noblezada, the current toast

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8. Roanne Monte (London) -- Roanne was only 18 when she moved to London to perform in Miss Saigon, which she said strengthened her admiration for the Filipino talent. “I had always known that Filipinos are talented, but not to the degree that I saw in the production,” she said. These days, she is heavily involved in the technology industry. She still performs occasionally, but mainly for charity events.

2. Joanna Ampil (London, Sydney, UK Tour) -- Be-

Joanna Ampil

9. Renée Montemayor (London) – “I gained respect

3. Maya Barredo-Duffy (London) -- For former Repertory Philippines regular Maya Barredo, Kim was more than just a dream role. It was in Miss Saigon where she met her husband. The mother of three is now part of a group called West End Mamas along with other Miss Saigon veterans Cez CamposBonner and Gia Macuja-Atchison.

4. Ima Castro (Manila, Asian Tour) -- Ima made her stage debut at the Cultural Center of the Philippines production of Paglayang Minamahal. Despite her success in singing competitions, Ima credits Miss Saigon for what she has become today. “I am more confident, a much stronger performer. I’m up for a challenge any time of the day. My stint with ‘Miss Saigon’ gave me wonderful memories, lifelong friendships and who wouldn’t want to see the world and get paid to do it?” she said.

acting, singing, dancing, direction, to ethical considerations such as professionalism, and even navigating LIFE, I am ever so grateful for such a wealth of knowledge and wisdom the experience that is ‘Saigon’ has given me,” she said.

She credits her self-discipline and “deep respect for the arts” to her stint in Miss Saigon. Now a mother herself, she continues to work in the arts. She also performed with the California Philharmonic Orchestra singing songs from Evita, Cats and Chicago at a concert last month.

fore she was cast in Miss Saigon in 1993, Joanna was a veteran of several singing contests in Manila. She was also the youngest ever finalist of the Voice of Asia competition. After Miss Saigon, Joanna has performed in several West End musicals, including Jesus Christ Superstar and Les Miserables. She recently joined the European and London production of Cats. She was also chosen to do the Miss Saigon: Complete Symphonic Recording as Kim.

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Ima Castro

Leila Florentino 5. Leila (Broadway) --

Florentino

“Performing on a Broadway stage is a rare chance,” said Leila. “Singing songs composed by Claude Michel Schonberg and Alain Boublil was a fantastic experience. I didn’t need to act -- the music simply transformed me. The actors I performed with were excellent actors and singers. There’s so much talent out there. . . I will never forget performing the role of Kim and performing with such wonderful talented artists.” Leila now lives with her husband and daughter in Paris.

6. Carla Guevara-Laforteza (London) -- Carla who played Kim in the London

production of Miss Saigon from 1995-1997. She said the role of Kim was not only vocally punishing, but was physically and emotionally demanding as well. “I had to work double time because not only was I understudying Kim, I was also a cover for the role of Gigi while being part of the ensemble,” she said. Carla is very active in the Philippine theater industry in the country, appearing in musicals with various theater companies.

7. Miriam Marasigan (Sydney, UK Tour) – Miriam’s schooling may have been disrupted when she was cast in Miss Saigon but her experience from the show gave her valuable learning. “The entire experience of ‘Saigon’ has taught me countless lessons regarding the world of theater. From the technical creative aspects of

for the craft [of acting, singing, performing], especially since we performed in the world famous Theatre Royal Drury Lane, respect for the whole creative team for imagining this glorious production into being, respect for my fellow actors, respect for myself as a performer for stretching myself this far at such a young age and most importantly respect for all the lives that were affected as a consequence of the Vietnam war, indeed all of humanity now,” she said. Nowadays she is doing a lot of commercial work in London as well as modelling work.

10. Riva Salazar (London) -- Riva was only 19 years old when she auditioned for Kim in Miss Saigon. She was cast as Kim from 1995-1997. “When I was chosen for the role of Kim, I was one of only a handful of other women who went straight to the starring role without first having to become part of the ensemble,” she recalled. After Miss Saigon Riva appeared in the musical Les Miserables as Eponine from 1999 to 2001. (ABS-CBNNews.com) n

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Lea Salonga Then and Now:

LONDON

As coach in The Voice Philippines

10 Amazing L Moments EA Salonga is hailed as one of the Philippines’ icons in the entertainment industry. Having appeared in various theater productions and movies at a young age, she was indeed destined to become the superstar now that she is. We look back at 10 of her amazing moments onstage and television.

2. Making history: Eponine and Fantine in Les Miserables Following her performance in Miss Saigon, Lea joined the cast of Les Miserables in 1993. She was cast as Eponine, the unfortunate young girl with unrequited feelings for Marius, who sings the iconic song On My Own. Lea played Eponine again in the 10th anniversary presenta-

On September 22, the audience at the Prince Edward Theater in London got to witness a historic moment when Lea, along with the original cast of the 1989 Miss Saigon, appeared for the show’s 25th anniversary presentation. They performed with the current cast, singing songs such as Movie in My Mind, Last Night of the World, and The American Dream.

7. Mentoring others as coach on The Voice of the Philippines With her years in performing onstage as a kid, it was only natural for Lea to mentor other artists as well. For the past two seasons, she has served as a mentor in the Filipino franchise of the hit show The Voice and The Voice Kids along with Sarah Geronimo, Bamboo Mañalac and Apl.de.ap.

1. Lea as the beautiful, hopeful Kim in Miss Saigon In 1989, Cameron Mackintosh, Alain Boublil and ClaudeMichel Schönberg launched Miss Saigon in London, in what would become one of the biggest musicals in history. The trio along, with their casting directors, came to Manila where Lea auditioned for the role of Kim. At 18, Lea eventually got the part and performed with Simon Bowman and Jonathan Pryce. In 1991, Lea won recognition for her role as Kim, nabbing Tony, Olivier and Drama Desk awards.

6. Miss Saigon 25th anniversary appearance

As Kim in the original run of Miss Saigon tion at London’s Royal Albert Hall in 1995. In 2010, she returned to Les Miserables for the 25th anniversary presentation playing the role of Fantine.

3. Disney Legend: The singing voice of Princess Jasmine and Mulan In 1992, the Disney movie Aladdin was released, featuring Lea as the singing voice of Princess Jasmine. She recorded the song A Whole New World opposite Brad Kane, and performed in the 1993 Academy Awards. In 1998, Lea once again lent her singing voice to the movie Mulan, singing the part of the heroine Fa Mulan. She also sang the part in the sequel Mulan II.

8. Performance at the 15th Asian Games in Qatar As Eponine in Les Miserables 4. 2002 56th Tony Awards performance In a tribute to Richard Rodgers, Lea sang the song I Enjoy Being A Girl, with stars such as Harry Connick Jr., Michele Lee, and Peter Gallagher.

5. Voice actor in My Neighbor Totoro as Mrs Kusakabe Lea lent her voice to the English dubbed version of My Neighbor Totoro as Mrs Kusakabe alongside Dakota and Elle Fanning released in 2005. The movie was directed and written by animation legend Hayao Miyazaki.

Lea took center stage in 2006 when she sang the song Triumph of One during the 15th Asian Games in Doha, Qatar.

9. Appearance in ER Lea made a special appearance in the TV show ER for its Christmas episode.

10. Touring with Il Divo Lea is currently participating in a world tour with the singing group Il Divo. Lea performed A Whole New World with the group – a performance that went viral, with many netizens commenting that her voice, 22 years after her role as the voice of Princess Jasmine, was just as sweet. (Rappler.com) n

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Search on for the year’s model OFW families

HE SEARCH is on for the model OFW family of the year, according to the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), which will grant the award. According to OWWA, the public had until October 10, to submit their nominees at OWWA regional welfare offices. In a statement, OWWA said 34 winners—17 for land-based and 17 for sea-based—will be declared OFW model families in the regional level. The regional awarding was held from October 17 to October 22, 2014. Soon after the regional awards, winners will vie for the na-

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tional title on December 4 with only two OFW families for landbased and sea-based categories to be adjudged Model OFW Families of the Year 2014. Judges will also confer three special awards—the Outstanding OFW Family in Entrepreneurship, Outstanding OFW Family in Community Projects, and the OFW Family Circle of the Year. The Model OFW Family of Year Awards (MOFYA) is an annual institutional event of OWWA that highlights the solidarity of the OFW family as one of the pillars of a stable Filipino society. One of the criteria is family values upheld and nurtured by the OFWs that resonate withPAGE FULL

For advertising inquiries, call 0207 5818100 Email: splashpress@aol.com Additional drop points where it matters: Also in 3 major airport lounges and over 40 International English student lounges the community. Judges will also consider the educational values espoused by the OFW family, as well as their achievements in managing financial resources while the OFW family member was abroad.

Last year’s national winners were Esmael M. Maulana and family of Maguindanao for the landbased category, and Alberto Balbalan and family of Ilocos Sur for the seabased category. (GMA News)

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Flash Lechon Festival

Seventy-five roasted pigs are laid out side by side in La Loma district for residents to feast on during the Lechon Festival which was held to celebrate Quezon City’s 75th Foundation Day on October 12.

Prayers for Peace

Hundreds of Filipino Muslims pray for peace in Mindanao and the Middle East at the Luneta Park in Manila during the celebration of Eid-al-Adha. Observed in the country last October 6, the festival marks the end of the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca and is considered one of the two most important occasions in the Islamic calendar.

Standing Guard

Soldiers of the Philippine Army stand guard and patrol the periphery of the six-kilometer permanent danger zone around Mount Mayon in Albay province. Signs of activity from the famed volcano have led authorities to evacuate residents around the area.

s E-Jeepney

The first of Quezon City’s e-jeepneys – formally known as City-Optimized Managed Electric Transport (Comet) - started to ply their routes last October 4. The Comet is said to be the earthfriendly replacement of the old-fashioned, smokebelching jeepneys.

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Flash Christmas Is in the Air

It’s more than a month since the onset of the “ber” months and so it’s not surprising to see, feel, taste and hear the Yuletide spirit once again. At the Nepa Q Mart in Quezon City, an early Christmas shopper inspects the brightly colored parol that have mushroomed in stores everywhere.

Hero’s Welcome

Members of the 7th Philippine Contingent to the Golan Heights who recently returned to the country are showered with confetti during a special program to honor their bravery and service at Camp Aguinaldo. The Filipino UN peacekeepers, who engaged Syrian rebels in a standoff last August, were earlier awarded medals for bravery by President Benigno Aquino III.

Testing the Waters

Filipino and US Marines participate in the annual joint military exercise dubbed at an island near the West Philippine Sea (South China Sea) in Puerto Princesa, Palawan. The exercise last Oct. 2 was held close to flashpoints where Beijing is involved in bitter territorial disputes

s Surfing

in the City

A resident of Manila precariously maintains his balance as he navigates a flooded street on a raft during heavy rains and flooding last month.

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Though I was climbing with a fairly big group, I made it a point to separate from the pack and trek alone in the forest, drinking in the fascinating flora, the birds and insects that inhabit the low canopy of tiny leaves and moss-coated branches.

A Dream Walk Through a Magical Cloud Forest text and photos By cecil morella

THICK soup of fog, white as the coconut milk of the lowlands, soaks through the otherworldly cloud forests of Bokod in the late afternoons of September, one of the rainiest months of the southern Cordilleras. It briefly disorientated two climbers trekking just in front of me as they tried to find the peak-top camp site of Mount Tangbao through the acres of tall grass.

It shrouded the land again late in the following afternoon, like cake icing over the tents pitched about 100 yards away atop a rise called Bangtinen, just below Mount Banshila. Sometimes the fog arrives with rain and a brisk, chill wind. Backpackers live for magical moments like these as they sit beneath their camp kitchen, tiny stoves on full afterburners, brewing coffee and boiling instant noodles so that, swaddled in fleece jackets and balaclavas, they can stare into the void, watching the water drip from the tarp while waiting for the day to turn into night.

I was doing Mt. Purgatory, a boomerang-shaped chain of mountains more than 2,000 meters above sea level, above the Ambuklao Dam, for the second time in three weeks as part of a regular AMCI training climb. The stretch between the Tinengan forest and Mount Pack, also called Banshila, and including Mounts Komkompol, Tangbao, Purgatory and Bakian showcases some of the most beautiful cloud forests of the Cordilleras. Though I was climbing with a fairly big group, I made it a point to separate from the pack and trek alone in the for-

I marvel at the earthmoving done beside the trail by largely invisible actors, giant earthworms and their predators, highland rats. est, drinking in the fascinating flora, the birds and insects that inhabit the low canopy of tiny leaves and moss-coated branches, and marveling at the earthmoving done beside the trail by largely invisible actors, giant earthworms and their predators, highland rats. Even the pine forests below them were just wonderful to behold, rows upon rows of dark boles rising straight up below and above the trail, above the village of Ekip and below the Tangbao summit. All that green

cover meant the mountains bled sweet, cold water, so that for most of the three-day hike I only had half a liter of hydration with me. I had no fear of getting lost, even in the dark, because the trails were well-marked, and anyway it was already my third time in these mountains in the past 20 months, having also done this climb solo early last year and as part of an AMCI reconnaissance team two weeks ago. Below Mount Pack we met another Manila group climbing from the opposite end, guided by an old man armed with a battle spear. In the dim forest between Komkompol and Tangbao late on the first day I met two women, both laden with full sacks of newly harvested sweet potatoes, rushing to their homes in Naswak on the Kayapa town side from their farms on the slopes of Bakian. I also saw a bird trap near the trail between Purgatory and Pack the following day. I am not sure if my colleagues noticed any of these, or if the forests were even central to their experience. Some climb to be in wonderful company, others are up for the physical challenge, while the rest are in for bits of all three. Climbing mountains leads to sensory overload, and one is just as valid as the other. Anyway, beautiful they may be, but make no mistake: these forests are under siege. There is massive land conversion going on along the pine forests uphill from the traditional Japas trail head, with the bigger trees chopped down for housing material and saplings burned down to create cabbage and potato plots. Even the cloud forests just below the Mount Pack summit are now being burnt, and so are those on Bakian. (GMA News) n

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LONDON

WHAT’S ON

TRAVEL

F YOU are already thinking of your retirement, you might want to consider staying in the country for good. Negros Oriental capital Dumaguete was tagged to be one of the best places to retire around the world, according to the 2014 Retire Overseas Index released by The Overseas Retirement Letter , a publication for retirees all over the world. The report stated that this ranking was brought about by the affordable cost of living in this city, tropical climate, warm English-speaking community, and beautiful beachfront scenery, the City Tourism Office said. The scoring used for this ranking was based on criteria that are crucial to retirees such as climate, and beautiful sceneries. The Overseas Retirement Letter also reflected Dumaguete City as the second most affordable place to retire with a monthly budget of $910, next to Nha Trang, Vietnam with a monthly budget of $680. The budget were created based on expenses of house rentals, groceries, basic utilities, such as electricity, phone, water, Internet, gas, and cable and entertainment expenses. This has not been the first citation received by this city. Yahoo Finance and US News Money early this year also identified Dumaguete as one of the nine Most Affordable Places to Retire with a monthly budget of $1,000 – obtaining 4th rank in the list. The report described the city as, “In addition to its welcoming, friendly, English-speaking people, Dumaguete boasts a warm, tropical climate, and lots of opportunity for outdoor activities. It sits right along the ocean, with attractive beaches to the north and south of town.” “Being known as the University town, foreigners have the opportunity to make friends with educated professors and aspiring students, take classes, and enjoy cultural opportunities not typically found elsewhere

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in the Philippines, including theater, ballet, art shows, and libraries,” the report added. Forbes.com also featured Dumaguete City as the 5th among the Seven Best Places to Retire around the world. In its report, it defined Dumaguete as a city where one will find “one of the best places for beachfront living on a budget.” It also pronounced Dumaguete as inexpensive with great beaches, expats, balmy climate, and good health care.” “This is a testament that indeed Dumaguete City under the leadership of Mayor Manuel Sagarbarria with its world-class ambiance continues to live by the legend of its name – “Dumaguet” meaning “to swoop” or its power to attract and keep visitors. In the Philippines, your dollar stretches (and stretches and stretches), and most expats live comfortably on $800 to $1,200 per month. This will fund a lot of luxuries, such as household help. In the provinces, the monthly salary for live-in maids is around $65. In a coastal town on Negros Island a haircut can cost as little as 77 cents. IL also cited various benefits that the Philippine government is giving its expat retirees, such

as the issuance of a special retirement visa. If a retiree is over 50 years old and has a monthly pension of US$1,000 (or around

Php 44,000), s/he can obtain a permanent residency. Pensions and and annuities are also exempted from tax here. (ANC)

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It’s Still More Fun I

in the Philippines

T will still be more fun in the Philippines in 2015—at least, according to the Department of Tourism (DOT).

The DOT, together with its marketing and promotions arm, the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), launched its new campaign during the Philippine Travel Exchange (PHITEX) last month at the SMX Convention Center in Pasay City. The theme is “2015: Visit the Philippines Year” (VPY). Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez, Jr. said the new campaign is not meant to replace “It’s More Fun in the Philippines”. Instead, he said, it sustains the campaign and freshens it up at the same time. To support VPY, DOT also launched a microsite that serves as a directory for events all over the country.

Big events in 2015 TBP’s chief operating officer Domingo Ramon C. Enerio III said that in 2015 the agency wants to emphasize five main themes: 1) business meetings, 2) history and culture, 3) lifestyle and entertainment, 4) music and arts, and 5) sports, adventure, and eco-tourism. Business meetings: The Philippines is set to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministerial Meetings and Leaders’ Summit. The APEC meetings are not going to be confined to Metro Manila; various sessions will be held in different parts of the country -- Boracay and Iloilo City in the Western Visayas; Tagaytay City in Southern Tagalog; Metro Cebu in the Central Visayas; Bagac, Bataan, and Clark, Pam-

The Iloilo Convention Center

Surfing in Siargao panga, in Central Luzon; and Legazpi City in Bicol. The setup allows the participants from APEC countries in APEC to see more of the country. History and culture: On top of the much-awaited visit of Pope Francis in January, the Philippines will commemorate the 70th anniversary of the final battles of World War II, alongside the countries involved in the war, and pay homage to the fallen soldiers in September 2015. Lifestyle and entertainment: Aside from the yearround fiestas, the Philippines will be the first country to host the international gastronomic summit Madrid Fusión outside Spain next year. Music and arts: The Philippines remains a favorite tour

stop of some of the biggest acts in the world. Next year the band One Direction and Justin Timberlake will be among the big acts performing in the country. Intramuros, Nayong Pilipino, and Rizal Park – all in Metro Mania -- are being redeveloped as event venues. Sports, adventure, and ecotourism: Among the big international sporting and adventure events set in the country in 2015 are the Diving Resort Travel Expo in Manila in April and the Siargao International Surfing Competition in Siargao Island in Surigao del Norte in August.

More tourists coming Secretary Jimenez noted that the world is turning into Asia for travel experience and so finally the Philippines is get-

ting its share of the attention. Around seven million tourists are expected to have fun in the Philippines in 2014, Jimenez said. However, he said, the number of visitor arrivals is just one aspect of calculating tourism growth. Revenue and employment are other factors that should not be overlooked. Although the Philippines is trailing other countries in the region in terms of physical arrivals due to typhoons and unforeseen events, the revenue—or the amount every tourist spends—is still on target, Jimenez said. In fact, the Philippines’ revenue from tourism is one of the fastest-growing in this part of the world, he said. Tourists coming from farther places are spending more time in the Philippines. Jimenez also pointed out that volunteerism has been helpful in developing entrepreneurial tourism— tourists who stay for a long time in the country and help generate jobs. “It’s a very much appreciated effort,” he said. Meanwhile, the government has almost reached its 2016 target of 56 million in terms of domestic tourism, Jimenez said. There were 44 million domestic tourists last year. “We are now travel-crazy as a country, which is good,” he said.

Challenges, bottlenecks However, he stressed, the Philippines should still improve its tourism capacity to allow more growth. Bottlenecks in airports, lack of aircraft, and problems in online booking are challenges the local tourism industry needs to overcome. According to Jimenez, the DOT is also “applying very sharp pressure” to move tourism out of Manila and urge people to visit other places such as Bohol and Davao. “Kung saan masigasig talaga ang local government, doon malakas ang tourism. Pag aktibista sa tourism ang LGU, magsa-succeed,” Jimenez added. (GMA News) n

OCTOBER APRIL2014 2012

LONDON

EMBASSY NEWS

EMBASSY OUTREACH - DUBLIN

IMPLEMENTATION OF TERMINAL FEE INTEGRATION PROGRAM

The Embassy will hold its next Consular Outreach Mission for 2014 in: Date/Time: 18-19 Oct. 2014 (Sat-Sun) Venue: Oblate Hall, Tyrconnel Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8 Contact Person: Mr. Mark Congdon, Honorary Consul Mr. Raymond Garrett, Operations Manager www.philippineconsulate.ie WE REGRET THAT DUE TO LIMITATIONS IN THE CAPACITY OF OUR IT EQUIPMENT, ONLY THOSE WITH BOOKINGS/APPOINTMENT SLOTS FOR PASSPORT RENEWAL WILL BE SERVED. Applicants are advised to check the documentary and other requirements at www.philembassy-uk.org.

EMBASSY OUTREACH - NORWICH The Embassy will hold its next Consular Outreach Mission for 2014 in:

FULL Date/Time: 15 Nov. 2014 (Saturday), 10:00am to 5:00pm Venue: Clover Hill Village Hall, Humbleyard, Norwich, Norfolk NR5 9BN Contact Person: Ms. Tess Ward 07964048305 Those requiring passport services are requested to fill out the Passport Service Request Form and send to embassy@ philemb.co.uk or fax to 0207 930 9787 from 07–31 October. For more info please go to http://philembassy-uk.org/

WHAT’S ON 15-19 Oct. 2014

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One World Summit 2014 Venue: Dublin, TBA Counselors: Kofi Annan, Jamie Oliver, Sir Richard Branson, Sir Bob Geldof, etc.

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Mocha Girls UK Tour Venue: FM Bar, London (conference 4th November) Essex, London, Cardiff, Bolton, Dublin, Belfast, Birmingham Contact: 07414 442151 07720 263621

WHAT’S ON

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Effective 01 November (deferred from 1 October) 2014, the Philippine Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) will be implementing the International Passenger Service Charge Integration Program, i.e., the IPSC – commonly known as the airport terminal fee - shall be incorporated into the cost of airline tickets at point of sale. The aim of the integration scheme is to address congestion in all Ninoy Aquino International (NAIA) terminals caused by the increasing volume of passengers, through the adoption of measures that reduce processing times. The integration scheme will also conform to international standards and practices of airports worldwide. The integration will be implemented simultaneously by all airlines worldwide and shall also cover passengers transiting Manila to any destination point. Refunds are allowed for exempt passengers who have been charged a terminal fee. Refunds can be processed and paid at the NAIA Terminals PAGE on AD the same day as departure, 24 hours daily; or at the MIAA Administration Building, Collection office, Ground Floor, MIA Road, Pasay City from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Mondays through Fridays except holidays. More information is available at the Manila International Airport Authority website www.miaa.gov.ph

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COMMUNITY

25 October 2014

2 November 2014

Venue: TBC

Venue: The Devenish Complex, 33-37 Finaghy Road North Belfast BT10 OJB

Hawak Kamay UK Typhoon Haiyan Fundraiser

Contact: 07792120810 07429493888

Reo Brothers in Belfast - UK Tour

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For your regional Christmas celebration, please contact our team on 02075818100 as we will help Splash around the party news to all our readers!

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Filipino Peacekeepers Guard World’s War Zones

FTER nearly two decades on the frontlines against Muslim insurgents in the Philippines’ violence-plagued south, Army Captain Teodoro Nicor is looking forward to guarding a war zone abroad.

Nicor is training with hundreds of other battle-hardened troops to join a United Nations’ peacekeeping mission overseas, continuing a tradition that began more than 50 years ago when Filipino soldiers went to the Congo. “We are very excited,” said Nicor, 39. “There is fear but we have prepared really well for this.” The Philippines participation in the UN’s blue helmet brigades came under the spotlight last August when 75 soldiers fended off an attack by Al-Qaeda-linked Syrian rebels in the Golan Heights. While the incident made world headlines and prompted the UN to withdraw its peacekeeping force from the Syrian side of the territory, training for Nicor and his colleagues is very much focused on charm offensives. Colonel Roberto Ancan, commander of the training camp based in Capas, Tarlac, said Filipinos bring a unique mix to the UN’s peacekeeping missions with their internationally renowned friendliness and battlefield experience. “We wave, we smile, we shake hands, we greet good morning, good afternoon and good evening and in the local language as well,” said Ancan, himself a former peacekeeper in Timor Leste.

Filipino peacekeepers at the war-torn Golan Heights in the Middle East. He said the Filipinos have a term for themselves that reflect their unique qualities: “warrior peacekeepers”. The warrior element was on full display in the Golan Heights stand-off, after the rebels surrounded the Filipinos at their outposts and demanded their weapons. The rebels had just launched a similar assault against 45 Fijian peacekeepers, who surrendered and were taken hostage. In what proved to be a highly controversial move, the Filipinos defied an order from their UN commander, an Indian, to also surrender, and eventually escaped after four days. The Fijians were released after two weeks. The Philippines lodged a formal complaint against the UN commander for issuing the surrender order, as President Benigno Aquino III heaped praise on his troops. “Every Filipino soldier there, from the privates to the colonel, showed cleverness and expertise,” Aquino said. The trainees at the base said they were not surprised that their compatriots did not surrender. “Our guns are like our

wives, we don’t give them up,” Nicor said. Nicor speaks with the experience of having spent most of his career in the southern Philippines, where Muslim rebels and communist guerrillas have been waging two of Asia’s longest insurgencies. He is the leader of a battalion whose members were selected to join the UN efforts because of their success battling the Muslim rebels, who have been fighting since the 1970s for an independent homeland. Nicor and the other 330 soldiers in training were due to replace the Golan Heights crew this October. However Aquino decided to end the Philippine presence in the Golan, contested by Syria and Israel, due to the rising security threats. The troops were part of the UN force monitoring a 1974 ceasefire in the Golan Heights, where Israel seized 1,200 square kilometers (460 square miles) in 1967. More than 100 troops serving with a peacekeeping force in Liberia were also recently pulled out because of fears they may contract Ebola.

This will leave only about 150 Filipino troops wearing the UN’s blue helmets in Haiti, plus a handful of observers in the Ivory Coast, India and Pakistan. Before Aquino decided to withdraw from the Golan Heights and Liberia, the Philippines had more than 600 troops abroad with the UN, making it one of Asia’s biggest contributors to the global peacekeeping missions. However the government and military chiefs insist the commitment to the UN is as strong as ever, and Filipinos will continue to be deployed overseas for many years to come. “The Philippines remains committed to peacekeeping engagements because we are determined to promote international security and stability,” military spokesman LieutenantColonel Ramon Zagala said. While Nicor and the other training troops will not go to the Golan, they will remain on standby for the next UN appeal to guard a global hotspot, according to Ancan, their commander. The soldiers themselves are keen to head overseas, as joining a UN peacekeeping mission can be lucrative and often lead to promotions on return. The Philippines has one of Asia’s poorest and most illequipped militaries, with a soldier’s salary ranging from just 16,000 pesos ($364) to 60,000 pesos ($1,365) a month. Peacekeepers get a $900 (39,500-peso) monthly allowance from the UN, on top of their regular salary. One of the trainees at Capas, Corporal Mynald Cartaciano, 33, said he wanted to build a house for his wife and two babies. “I want to save up for my family, for my children,” he said. (Agence France-Presse) n

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