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FIL-AM CALIFORNIA
Ayala Foundation
harnesses Fil-Am
talent, resources
Aquino to speak at gala dinner
fundraiser during U.S. visit
By Daxim Lucas
MANILA, Philippines — That the Philip-
pines has some very pressing development
problems is not a revelation. However, that
some influential Filipinos abroad are helping
lay down solutions to these problems is.
Specifically, a group of Filipinos from both
sides of the Pacific is being shepherded by the
U.S. arm of the Ayala Foundation to frame a
program of action that will help the Philippines
regain its footing after years of neglect that saw
its competitiveness drop vis-a-vis its neighbors.
Called the Philippine Development Forum,
Ayala Foundation USA will convene this gath-
ering on Sept. 25 at the Fairmont Hotel in San
Jose, Calif. — the heart of Silicon Valley and
home to some entrepreneurial Filipinos — to
bring together Filipino and Filipino-American
thought leaders.
According to Ayala Foundation USA Pres-
ident Victoria Garchitorena, the movement
aims to tap the intellect and resources of Fili-
pino-Americans to support outstanding devel-
See FOUNDATION on 22
INSIDE | ONLINE
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
PRESENTS BAYANIHAN
PHILIPPINE NATIONAL
DANCE COMPANY
See story on Page 17
When: 2 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 26
Where: Copley Symphony Hall, 750 B St.,
San Diego. Symphony does not perform.
Tickets: $15-$65. Half-price tickets until Sept.
22. Mention this offer for discount. Phone only.
Online: www.sandiegosymphony.com.
Phone: (619) 235-0804
WIN FREE TICKETS!
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of tickets to the show. Visit Photos/Special
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HEALTHY LIVING
Sports-related concussions on the rise in kids
Page 8
Fil-Am fighter gets a kick out of Muay Thai
Adanza sets sights on
bringing recognition
to little-known sport
By Brandi Perez
Filipino Press Staff Writer
R
omie Adanza is a small guy
with big dreams. Standing
only 5 feet 4 inches tall and
weighing just 122 pounds, the profes-
sional Muay Thai fighter hopes to one
day have his name mentioned along-
side great fighters like Manny Pac-
quiao and Brandon Vera. He’s also
hoping a world title will give him, and
the sport, increased recognition.
Adanza, the current Internation-
al Karate Kickboxing Council (IKKC)
MuayThai International Super Ban-
tamweight champion, is set to de-
fend his title against Haigang Huang
of China on Oct. 2 during a World
Championship Kickboxing MuayThai
event at Pala Casino.
The defending champion doesn’t
have an exact answer for the com-
bination of skills he expects to
use to take out China’s national
champ, who has a record of 26 wins
and 12 losses.
See adanza on 14
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Win free tickets to Bayanihan!
Page 17
September 18 - 24, 2010 www.filipinopress.com
AQUINO IN THE U.S. • SEPT. 22-26
ON THE MARCH
President’s agenda packed with
activity on first official visit to U.S.
Compiled from news reports
C
arrying the political baggage with him that has dogged
his administration since the recent Manila bus killings
— about which he will surely face a barrage of questions
from the U.S. press — President Benigno S. Aquino III begins
his first official visit to a foreign country this week since taking
office.
After controversial cancellations of traditional first official
visits to neighboring Southeast Asian countries Vietnam and
Indonesia due, his office said, to scheduling difficulties, Aqui-
no's week-long visit to the U.S. is packed with activity.
Arriving in New York on
AQUINO’S SCHEDULE
Wednesday, Sept. 22, from
Vancouver, B.C., with only President Aquino is sched-
three members of his cabinet uled to arrive in New York on
accompanying him, Aquino’s Wednesday, Sept. 22, after
debut on the world stage has flying first to Vancouver from
been the focus of much spec- Manila.
ulation on a private, one-on-
On Friday, Sept. 24, Aquino will
one visit with U.S. Presdient
meet his counterparts at the
Barack Obama. Sources with-
in the Aquino administratio- Association of Southeast Asian-
na and officials in U.S. say a U.S. Leaders Meeting in New
meeting will take place, al- York, hosted by U.S. Presdient
though no official meeting has Barack Obama. The same
been announced. day, Aquino will address the
“They will meet for sure,” 65th United Nations General
Philippine Ambassador to the Assembly.
United States Willy Gaa con- In San Franscico on Saturday,
firmed recently. “Negotiations
are now under way and it’s
Sept. 25, the president will
attend more meetings with
only a matter of scheduling Filipino-Americans, business
the right time and date.”
Regardless, the two leaders
and community leaders before
speaking at the Philippine De-
will meet officially as Obama velopment Forum's gala dinner
hosts the Association of South- in San Jose.
east Asian Nations (ASEAN)-
U.S. Leaders Meeting in New He will return to Manila that
evening.
See VISIT on 22
Photo: Jay Morales/Malacang Photo Bureau/Photo illustration by Bill Ramsey
Photo: Ray Kasprowicz
Filipino-American MuayThai fighter Romie Adanza delivers a flying knee to Kunitaka Fujiwara. Adanza is the No. 1 MuayThai fighter
in the super bantamweight category in the United States and is ranked by WBC MuayThai as No. 14 in the world in the super bantam-
weight division. Adanza is set to defend his IKKC MuayThai International title against Haigang Huang of China at Pala Casino on Oct. 2.
2 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Aquino vows to upgrade equipment
of PNP, AFP elite forces
Members of the Naval Special Operations Group participate in a ground rescue demonstration inside the Philippine Navy headquarters in Sangley Point,
Cavite City. President Benigno "Noynoy" Aquino III, who witnessed the drill, made a promise that the Philippine National Police and the armed forces would
demonstrate their improved capabilities after last month's botched hostage raid that killed eight Hong Kong national tourists and the gunman.
CAVITE, Philippines —
President Benigno S. Aquino
III recently vowed to upgrade
the equipment of the police
and military services to im-
prove their capabilities in
the fight against lawlessness.
In a visit to the Sangley Point
Naval base, President Aqui-
no said that acquiring modern
equipments for the uniformed
personnel is necessary to boost
their morale.
“A lot of these items are not
Tourism loses P40 million
SC asking
for P27B in aftermath of hostage crisis
budget
for 2011
MANILA, Philippines —
The Supreme Court recently
clarified that they are asking
for a budget of P27 billion for
next year.
"We are asking for P27 bil-
lion budget for 2011 but the
DBM (Department of Bud-
get and Management) recom-
mended for only P14 billion,"
spokesman and court admin-
istrator Jose Midas Marquez
said.
Marquez said that because
of the budget cut of some P13
billion, several projects of the
highest court of the land for
this year may not be imple-
mented anymore.
"We have several projects
to be implemented this year,
but with this budget (P14 bil-
lion), it cannot be implement-
ed," Marquez said.
Marquez noted that since
2007, the judges and magis-
trates have not been receiving
their legislated and authorized
allowances which has now
amounted to P900 million.
"Our justices have not re-
ceived their salary increas-
es mandated by law for five
years already, because there is
no funding from the national
government," Marquez added.
Likewise, Marquez recent-
ly assured that there is no
such planned mass leave or
"judicial revolt" of judges in
all courts nationwide.
Marquez said such "judicial
revolt" will not push through,
adding that, they are contin-
uously communicating with
the government in order to
give priority to the request of
the judges and other officials
and employees of the judicial
branch of government. (MNS)
impossible to get," he said.
"They must be given necessary
tools. Don’t let them fight with-
out the necessary equipment.”
The President’s visit was part
of his tour of military facilities to
observe anti-terrorist capabilities.
He first went to the PNP Spe-
cial Action Force in Camp Bagong
Diwa in Taguig City before pro-
ceeding to the Sangley Point fa-
cility of the Philippine Navy.
In an ambush interview after
the demonstration, the Pres-
MANILA, Philippines — The
country is now counting its loss-
es in the aftermath of the Au-
gust 23 hostage crisis.
Tourism Secretary Alberto
Lim said the country lost about
P40 million in income due to
trip cancellations.
The P40 million is equivalent
to 3,760 room reservations can-
celled since the hostage fiasco.
A dismissed police officer, Ro-
lando Mendoza, took hostage
several Hong Kong tourists to
pressure government officials
for his reinstatement to the ser-
vice. After the 12-hour ordeal, 9
people were declared dead in-
cluding the gunman himself.
Manila, Laoag, Palawan, Bo-
hol and the Boracay Islands
were the most affected after
Hong Kong banned all travel to
RP Marines unleash new
weapon in war on terror: Dogs
MANILA, Philippines —
The Philippine Marines re-
cently activated a special unit
that will be used in the cam-
paign against terrorists and
other lawless elements in the
southern Philippine prov-
inces of Sulu and Basilan.
The team, however, is not
composed of elite, battle-
ready soldiers, but of freshly
trained Belgian Malinois and
Labradors.
“K-9 will be a valuable asset
to the Marine units with
its senses of sight, smell and
hearing that enhance detec-
tion capabilities and provide
commanders with a physical
and psychological deterrent to
enemy activity,” said Marine
spokesman Capt. Alden Gwyn
Amargo.
ident expressed elation over the
capability and skills of the Na-
val elite force in both sea and
land encounters.
“I think you’ve seen how capa-
ble our people are,” the President
told reporters when asked if he is
satisfied with the exercise.
After the demonstration, the
President participated in the
traditional "boodle fight" with
the Navy and Marines.
Philippine Navy spokesman
Lt. Col. Edgard Arevalo said
the Philippines after the hos-
tage fiasco.
Speaking before the House
of Representatives Committee
on Appropriations, Lim said the
government will unveil a new
marketing strategy this Octo-
ber.
Lim said they are looking at
new markets that will replace
the Hong Kong and Chinese
markets. The hostage crisis re-
sulted in diplomatic strains be-
tween the country on one side
and HK and China on the other.
He said, however, the coun-
try will not drop these mar-
kets altogether, even if it has to
spend heavily in regaining their
trust.
Nevertheless, the DOT is
sticking to its 10% growth tar-
get this year.
“In today’s threat of [impro-
vised explosive devices] in the
field, having an [explosive de-
tection dogs] will complement
or extend the detection capa-
bilities of the Marines in re-
sponding to bomb threats and
incidents,” he added.
Amargo said the K-9 unit will
be most useful in combat tracking
and bomb detection operations.
The unit, composed of 12
teams, displayed its capabil-
ity at the Marine headquar-
ters in Fort Bonifacio. Marine
commandant Maj. Gen. Rusti-
co Guerrero led officials in wit-
nessing the demonstration.
“The dogs will be employed to
help track fleeing enemies dur-
ing pursuit operations following
an encounter. The employment
of the K-9 will enhance the Ma-
Photos: MNS
the objective of the joint dem-
onstration of the Navy Spe-
cial Operations Group and Ma-
rines reconnaissance force was
to show to the President and to
the Filipino people their readi-
ness and competence to protect
the country from terrorism.
He said the exercise was in
response to the President’s di-
rective, to both AFP and PNP,
to create an elite unit capable
to combat urban and rural ter-
ror threats. (MNS)
For this year, the country is
eyeing 3.3 million visitors with
$2.5 billion in receipts. This will
result to 377,000 new jobs.
By 2016, the country is tar-
geting to attract 6 million tour-
ists, or about $4.5 billion in
tourist receipts. This would
mean 665,000 new jobs.
“We are focusing on other
markets. We don't think we can
force HK market to come back,
we’re focusing heavily on other
markets to replace. We have to
heal naturally [then] we can go
back. We’re getting indications
it’s starting to heal,” he said.
Lim also reiterated the need
for “pocket open skies policy,”
which means the opening up of
certain tourist destinations to
foreign carriers to help bring in
the tourists. (MNS)
rines security operations,” said
Navy spokesman Lt. Col. Ed-
gard Arevalo.
Amargo expressed confidence
that the unit “will be effective
for force protection and anti-
terrorism counter measures.”
“They expand the individu-
al soldier’s effectiveness in the
face of those that would come
against him. They provide an
immense physical and psycho-
logical effect when used as a
show of force in day-to-day op-
erations,” added Amargo.
Amargo also said the use
of these dogs will provide a
“strong psychological deterrent
to potential offenders,” not-
ing that these can be brought
to populated areas such as air-
fields, shopping areas and in-
dustrial areas. (MNS)
September 18 - 24, 2010
Seniors may enjoy higher discount on medicines
MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Finance prefers to expand
the discount on senior citizens’ purchase of medicines over an expand-
ed value-added tax exemption.
Finance Assistant Secretary Teresa Habitan said this is the preferred
route that the Finance department wants to take to help senior citizens.
As such, the DOF wants the VAT exemption on senior citizens re-
called because of the huge revenue losses. According to estimates
made by the department, the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of
2010 would result in revenue losses of P1.68 billion a year and that
it would complicate the administration of the VAT. “This is not the
only way to help senior citizens,” Habitan said.
Under the measure, the VAT exemption applies to the medicines, acces-
sories and equipment; fees of attending physicians; medical, dental fees
and diagnostic and laboratory fees and fares for public transportation.
Furthermore, the discount also applies on admission fees in cinemas, lei-
sure and culture, services in hotels, restaurants and similar establishments
and to the funeral and burial services for the death of senior citizens.
Habitan said during deliberations on the expanded VAT, what the se-
nior citizens lobbied for are discounts on their purchases of medicines.
“What they are really after is a discount on their purchases of main-
tenance medicines,” she said.
However, Habitan said that since the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of
2010 is already in effect, the government would have to push for amend-
ments in the existing measure to recall the expanded VAT exemption.
The Finance department also said that it lieu of the proposed VAT
exemption, it supports an increase in the senior citizen’s discount to
30 percent from the existing 20 percent. The Aquino administration
is staring at a widening budget gap that is projected to hit P325
billion this year or 3.9 percent of gross domestic product from a
previous estimate of P300 billion.
The budget gap in July has already widened the deficit to P229.4 billion
as of end-July or 22 percent higher than the P188 billion recorded a year
ago. The budget gap in the first seven months this year was already 70.6
percent of government’s P325 billion ceiling for this year. (philstar.com)
Banks’ auto loans rise 22.7% in first half
MANILA, Philippines — Banks’ automotive loans in the first six months
went up by 22.7 percent year-on-year to P105.8 billion, boosted by
commercial and thrift banks’ aggressive marketing campaigns such as
lower rates and longer financing, and the auto industry’s promotion of
new units. The increase also reflects the sustained growth in local auto
sales which is 27 percent for the first eight months of the current year.
The Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas in a statement reported that auto
loans by banks and their non-bank subsidiaries recorded a six
percent increase quarter-on-quarter or end-June from March. The
ratio of auto loans to total loan portfolio was 3.9 percent from 3.3
percent the same period last year.
BSP noted that it was the smaller thrift banks that still accounted
for half or 51.6 percent of total auto loans, while the big banks held
48.2 percent, and non-bank firms contributed only two percent.
For the first six months the banking sector’s credit card loans also
increased by 4.9 percent year-on-year to P135.9 billion, and four
percent compared to the previous quarter.
The ratio of total credit card receivables to total loan portfolio,
exclusive of interbank loans, decreased to five percent from last
quarter’s 5.1 percent but remained unchanged from year ago’s
ratio, said the BSP.
Big banks accounted for 83.7 percent or P113.7 billion of total CCRs,
while credit card subsidiaries contributed16 percent or P21.7 billion.
The report said thrift banks not affiliated with big banks had a mini-
mal 0.3 percent or P500 million share of total CCRs.
As of end-June 2010, BSP said the total consumer loans reached P434.6
billion, up nine percent from last year’s P398.6 billion. The proportion of
total consumer loans to total loan portfolio was 16.1 percent from 15.6
percent ratio the same period in 2009. (mb.com.ph)
Credit card receivables up 4.9% to P136 billion in first half
MANILA, Philippines — More and more consumers are turning to
their credit cards instead of using cash to pay for goods or ser-
vices as the bank’s credit card receivables increased by 4.9 percent
as of the end of the first half of the year amid the stronger-than-
anticipated economic growth, the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas
reported recently.
Data showed that credit card receivables of universal, commercial,
and thrift banks amounted to P135.89 billion as of end-June this
year or P6.33 billion more than the P129.56 billion registered in the
same period last year as consumers turned to their credit cards to
finance the purchase of goods and services.
The amount was also P5.24 billion higher than the P130.65 billion
receivables registered in the first quarter of the year.
The BSP said universal and commercial banks accounted for 83.7
percent of the total credit card receivables as of end-June while
credit card subsidiaries of universal and commercial banks cornered
a 16 percent share. Thrift banks got a marginal share of 0.3 percent.
Credit card receivables of universal and commercial banks as well as their
subsidiaries went up by 8.8 percent to P135.4 billion as of end-June this
year from P124.5 billion as of end-June last year while the receivables of
thirft banks plunged by 90 percent to P485 million from P5.07 billion.
Data showed that the banking industry’s total loan portfolio ex-
panded 5.8 percent to P2.74 trillion as of end-June this year from
P2.59 billion as of end-June last year.
The BSP said the ratio of non-performing credit card receivables
to total credit card receivables of the industry worsened to 13.68
percent as of end-June this year from 12.7 percent ratio in the same
period last year due to the double-digit hike of 13 percent in non-
performing receivables to P18.6 billion from P16.45 billion.
This translated to a 6.6 percent in loan loss reserves of P16.08 billion
as of end-June from P15.08 billion in the same period last year
The country’s gross domestic product growth zoomed to 7.9 per-
cent in the first half of the year from 1.2 percent in the same period
last year. In all, the country’s domestic output as measured by the
GDP expanded by 7.9 percent in the second quarter and by 7.8
percent in the first quarter.
Economic managers through the Cabinet-level Development Bud-
get Coordination Committee upgraded the country’s GDP growth
forecast last July to five percent to six percent instead of 2.6 percent
to 3.6 percent this year. (philstar.com)
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 3

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4 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Inventory
rises for
eighth
month
Housing inventories rose in
many U.S. cities for the eighth
straight month in August in
a sign of the continued head-
winds facing a soft housing
market.
The number of available
homes for sale in 26 major met-
ropolitan areas at the end of
August increased 0.4 percent
from one month earlier, ac-
cording to figures compiled by
ZipRealty Inc., a real-estate
brokerage firm based in Em-
eryville, Calif. The figures in-
clude all single-family homes,
condominiums and townhous-
es listed on local multiple-list-
ing services in markets where
the firm operates.
Inventories traditionally
rise modestly in August. Zel-
man & Associates, a research
firm, says listings have typical-
ly risen by 2 percent in August
over the past 28 years.
The less-than-average gain
in inventories is troubling,
nonetheless, because demand
has fallen sharply since a tax
credit to spur sales expired
earlier this year. At the cur-
rent pace, it would take 12.5
months to clear the backlog of
unsold homes, according to the
National Association of Real-
See inventory on 5
How financial
overhaul changes
the mortgage
market
By Nick Timiraos
T
he financial-regulatory
overhaul promises some
big changes concerning
how Americans go about getting
a mortgage.
The bill will offer more pro-
tections for consumers against
risky or complex mortgages,
but bankers say that with few-
er choices and more safeguards,
loans could be slightly more ex-
pensive. The upshot, said How-
ard Glaser, an industry consul-
tant and Clinton administration
housing official, is that consum-
ers will have “safer” loans, but
fewer of borrowers will qualify.
Some of the provisions of the
bill will take effect immediate-
ly, but many of the effects won’t
be noticed right away. That’s
partly because many of the ex-
otic mortgages that fueled the
subprime bubble were swept
away when the market melted
down three years ago.
Mortgage bankers say that
lending standards are tighter
today than at any time in the
past two decades, and most
loans being made today are
conventional fixed-rate loans
that are backed in some way by
the federal government.
Here’s a look at some of the
main changes for mortgages:
• The bill requires lenders to
have “skin in the game” on cer-
tain loans that are bundled and
sold to investors as securities.
The provision requires lenders
to retain at least 5% of the loans
that are securitized. The bill ex-
empts certain “safe” classes of
mortgages, such as fixed-rate
loans that require borrowers to
fully document their incomes.
• The bill sets stricter lim-
its on prepayment penalties, or
fees charged when borrowers
pay a loan off early.
• Lenders will have to take
greater steps to ensure that bor-
rowers have the ability to re-
pay the loan they’re receiving.
That means consumers will be
required to show lots of paper-
work—pay stubs, bank account
statements, tax forms—to prove
that they can afford the loan.
(That could cause problems for
some self-employed borrowers).
One key provision tries to
improve transparency of com-
pensation for loan officers and
mortgage brokers. Brokers and
loan officers can’t be paid based
on steering the customer to a
particular type of loan or rate.
Other changes will modi-
fy new appraisal regulations
that have been put in place in
See overhaul on 5
September 18 - 24, 2010
Rodriguez
joins
McMillin
Realty
SAN DIEGO, Calif. —Ru-
ben Rodriguez, a South Bay
native and real estate ex-
pert, is the latest addition to
McMillin Realty. Rodriguez
specializes in marketing and
sales in residential and in-
come-producing properties
with a focus in the greater
San Diego area.
With a career approach-
ing 10 years in sales, Rodri-
guez previously worked with
a large national real estate
brand where he ranked third
in his office and seventh over-
all in the organization in
2008.
Rodriguez also was pre-
sented with a Chairman’s Cir-
cle Gold Award, which ranked
him in the top two percent
of the 52,000 agent nation-
wide.  He has achieved mem-
bership to the President’s Cir-
cle for five consecutive years
and holds a Real Estate Busi-
ness Builder designation.
Rodriguez says he strives
to build mutually beneficial
relationships with his clients
as well as educate them on
current market conditions.
“It is always important to
build a close relationship first
and foremost with clients,”
he said. “I strive to earn their
trust as it is vital to have
See mcmillin on 5
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 5

inventory overhaul could be the government, mcmillin

Continued from p­­­­­age 4 Continued from p­­­­­age 4 which during the first quarter Continued from p­­­­­age 4
backed or bought more than
tors. A healthy market typical- the aftermath of the mort- nine in 10 new loans: someone to trust during the
ly a six-month supply of homes. gage crisis. Lenders will have Private securitizations will home-buying and selling pro-
Inventories nationally remain to compensate appraisers at a be helped by new rules that cre- cess.”
at their highest levels since No- “customary and reasonable” ate transparency and require- Rodriguez is fluent in
vember 2008, according to Zel- rate, and new appraisal man- ments that rating agencies do Spanish and has been a
man data. agement companies that facil- their homework before rating member of San Diego Coun-
The August inventory in the itate the ordering of apprais- a mortgage security. But other ty Hispanic Chamber of Com-
26 markets tracked by ZipReal- als will have to be registered parts of the bill impose new lia- merce.  He has contributed to
ty showed a 10.6 percent year- with state agencies. bility on securitizers for the un- several organizations in the
over-year increase in the num- The upshot of these rules, derlying mortgages originated South County including St.
ber of unsold homes listed for said Glaser, is a smaller mort- by third parties, and require- Raymond Catholic Church
sale. A number of cities, includ- gage market that exercises ments to retain capital when and its Casa Hogar de Los
ing Houston, Philadelphia, and far greater caution: transferring risk. The full con- Niños Orphanage in Tijuana
Orange County, Calif., remain The new law places signifi- tours of these rules won’t be as well as the Barrio Logan
at 18 month highs. cant hurdles to offering any issued by regulators for 2-3 College Institute.   He is also
“It’s across the country mortgage products outside the years—extending a period of a long-time supporter of the
where you’re seeing really big “plain vanilla” category. Regu- uncertainty that has dissuad- Niños de la Promesa Orphan-
inventory levels,” said Pat lators must define what is in- ed private investors from re- age in Tijuana.
Lashinsky, chief executive of side or outside the plain-vanil- starting the flow of mortgage A few reasons Ruben chose
ZipRealty. la box. Clearly, firm regulation capital. Meanwhile, the fed- to join McMillin Realty was
The biggest gains in inven- of mortgage products is neces- eral footprint in mortgages for its trusted reputation
tory continue to come from sary in light of the subprime will become deeper and deep- built from 50 years in the
overheated Western markets meltdown. But exactly where er in order to keep the hous- South San Diego area.  In ad-
where bidding wars on foreclo- regulators draw the line will ing market from the dreaded dition, Ruben was looking for
sures pushed the housing sup- have a substantial impact on double dip—and making the the best company to market
ply down to very low levels one what kind of mortgages are unwinding of federal interven- his sellers’ homes for maxi-
year ago. Las Vegas saw inven- available and which borrowers tion that much more difficult. mum exposure.  
tory rise by 9.3 percent from will qualify for a mortgage. An Obama administration Rodriguez can be reached
July, while listings were up by The bill, he argues, also official recently called the mort- by phone at (619) 261- 9814
4.6 percent in Phoenix and 3.8 will favor the big banks over gage provisions of the bill an or you can visit his website at
percent in San Diego. smaller lenders: important “first step” but said www.RubenR.com.
Compared to one year ago, Thus risk retention require- that additional measures were
inventories are up by 59 per- ments, compensation rules and needed to ensure better over-
cent in San Diego, 43 percent licensing standards are all tilt- sight of areas that had been at
in Orange County, Calif., and ed toward large banks. The re- the root of the foreclosure cri-
25 percent in Los Angeles. sult is that the big will get big- sis, such as nonbank lenders.
One big problem facing the ger—and the level of mortgage And of course, the bill is
market are the number of home risk will concentrate further— largely silent on how to remake
sellers who can’t lower their though the administration ar- the broader mortgage market,
prices any further without sell- gues that more competent reg- including what to do with Fan-
ing their home for less than ulators and safer mortgage nie Mae and Freddie Mac. Stay
they owe. Those sellers are of- products alleviate the concern tuned—the bill requires the ad-
ten unwilling to reduce prices. about “too big to fail.” ministration to outline its plan
Buyers, meanwhile, think pric- But the biggest “winner” by early next year. (wsj.com)
es are going to drop and inter-
est rates aren’t going to rise
soon, leaving them little incen-
tive to make a deal now. Sellers
and buyers “are waiting for the
other one to make a move, and
neither one is,” said Lashinsky.
One of the biggest miscon-
ceptions about the market right
now, he adds, is that there’s no
interest in housing. There are
plenty of buyers waiting the
buy, he says, but not at current
prices.
On a monthly basis, invento-
ries fell in half of all markets,
led by Austin, Texas, which was
down 3.8 percent, followed by
Charlotte, N.C., (down 3 per-
cent) and Boston (down 2 per-
cent). For the year, inventories
are down in Miami (8.6 per-
cent), Chicago (2.2 percent) and
Orlando, Fla., (2.2 percent).
Inventories are falling in
more markets in part because
sellers are just taking their
homes off the market.
“Sellers have realized, ‘I just
can’t get the price I want. In-
stead, I’m going to stay here,’”
said Lashinsky. While that
may work for buyers who just
can’t lower their prices any fur-
ther, he said, “if you think you
can put it back on nine months
later for 10 percent more, that’s
not a very wise strategy.” (wsj.
com)

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filipinopress.com
6 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Filipinos use humor,
song in face of adversity
F
ilipinos are known for
their sense of humor. Hav-
ing been victims of various
natural calamities, personal trag-
edies, bad deals and sticky situ-
ations, they most always seem
capable of coming up with some-
thing humorous to deal with
these situations.
I suppose by seeing the humor
or funny side of events helps us
rebound from seemingly hope-
less situations. After all, if you
come to think of it, if things are
out of your control what is there
to do but to accept the situation
Commentar y
In search of
Fil-America
By Raul V. Fabella
T
here is a hypothe -
sis that first-genera-
tion Filipino-Amer-
icans are the happiest bunch
of people in the Fil-Am world.
This claim is not so easy to
disregard although it is also
not easy to test. The vaunted
measures of happiness are not
yet available for Fil-Am sub-
groups. So we must go by ca-
Jueteng:
Where’s the will?
J
uan comes home one Fri-
day with the small earn-
ing he got driving a pedi-
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Editor-in-Chief Emeritus ERNIE FLORES, JR. • Executive Marketing Director SUSAN DELOS SANTOS
Managing Editor: bill ramsey • Assistant Editor: Brandi Perez
Staff Writers: JENNIFER ANARETA-BURMAN • FE SELIGMAN • ALICIA TORRES DE LEON
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Jason aguirre
JESSE t. REYES/WILLY REGULAR
VAL ABELGAS
STEPHEN CHAN
AURORA S. CUDAL
Danny hernaez
The Filipino Press is published every Saturday. We welcome news, features, editorials, opinions and photos. Photos must be accompanied by self-addressed,
postage-paid envelope to be returned. We reserve the right to edit materials. Views and opinions by our writers, contributors does not necessarily reflect
those of the publisher, management and staff of The Filipino Press.
and try to move on. The ability to
laugh in the face of diversity is a
true virtue.
I also know that Filipinos love
to try to piece things together
when some information is lack-
ing. Speculation and imagination
run wild in search of ways to find
an explanation or make sense of
things, to look for the sunny side.
One example is when we hap-
pen to have a friendly get-togeth-
er over a karaoke session. The
next thing you know, friends are
requesting the songs of Diana
Ross (“Touch Me in the Morn-
sual empiricism among the
Fil-Ams during our shoestring
continental passage.
We s t a r t w i t h t h e f a c t
some of the hottest items in
the old country remain ar-
guably the following and,
among them, in this order: a
green card, a sibling with
a green card, a mother or a
son/daughter with a green
card, a working visa or even
a 10-year visa. They all open
cab the whole day. There’s not
even enough for tonight’s sup-
per and tomorrow’s meals and
The
FRANCINE MAIGUE • Valerie Farnal
Community Outreach: Ruby Chiong • Lorna delos Santos
ARMI GUZMAN BRANDI PEREZ/JASON AGUIRRE
Cartoonists
Columnists/Contributors
JUN GUZMAN SOLY PARAISO
GREG B. MACABENTA JESSE T. REYES
JANICE MARTINELLI DOMINGO VARGAS
CORA PASTRANA ALFONSO VILLAMORA
“It’s funny how one's
imagination can be
stimulated through
song, how one’s ability
to relate and recall the
experience of surviving
a failed relationship
elicits a smile on one
another’s face."
ing”), Helen Reddy (“Leave Me
Alone”), and Gloria Gaynor's pop-
ular song, “I Will Survive.”
Funny how one’s imagination
can be stimulated through song,
how one’s ability to relate and re-
call the experience of surviving a
failed relationship elicits a smile
on one another's face.
That is an example of a Fili-
pino humor and our communica-
tion style.
For comments or suggestions
e-mail me at susands4@yahoo.
com.
Please visit our websites at fil-
ipinopress.com andfilipinofami-
lyday.com, and our new official
Facebook page at Filipino Press.
up with decreasing degrees
of proximity to that most joy-
ful call-up from the US em-
bassy or immigration office
to start the process leading
to that most coveted of pos-
sessions, a US citizenship.
Every Pinoy holding any of
these cards mutates as if by
magic into an object of envy.
A prince emerging from a frog
gifted with a kiss. A Captain
Phoebus rising from a Qua-
simodo blessed a green card.
A dear friend of ours, a doc-
tor in the Philippines who
came to the U.S. as a nurse,
got the news of invitation to
apply for a green card by cell
phone while driving us to
LA. She immediately became
a portrait of uncontainable
glee expressed in nonverbal
grunts and deep moans. "Re-
lax ka lang ha," admonished
“baon” for the four children, who
are going to school with the same
clothes they have been wearing
for three days now. Not to men-
tion the electric bill Juan has to
pay by Monday.
And then comes Jose, the
neighborhood jueteng collec-
tor. “Taya na!” prods Jose. “Ku-
lang pa ngang pangkain ng mga
anak ko itong kita ko,” Juan says
as he scratches his head. “Ma-
lay mo manalo ka, di wala ka
ng problema buong linggo. Kung
siniswerte ka, baka makapag-
down ka pa para sa sarili mong
tricycle,” Jose eggs on. “Sige na
nga. Magdilang anghel ka sana,”
Juan says reluctantly, and places
half of his meager earning on his
favorite combinations.
With close to a million-to-one
chance of winning big in jueteng,
needless to say, Juan lost half of
Layout & Design
bill ramsey
Webmaster:
PROLINE IMAGE
Circulation
ELY HERNANDEZ
Photographers
REN ROXAS • BO NAVARRO
the sympathetic caller fear-
ing she might lose control of
the steering wheel. It is hard-
ly a surprise. Among Fil-Ams,
to be referred to as "walang
papel" ranks as the height of
deprecation. When that "pa-
pel" issue finally gets settled,
other concerns emerge.
From a number of encoun-
ters, we surmised that the
sorry state of the old coun-
try is a constant source of
misgivings among Fil-Ams.
This reflects poorly on them
in comparison to other eth-
nic groups -- Chinese, Kore-
a n s , a n d Vi e t n a m e s e . " We
are just as good as they" is a
shared sentiment. It seems
that, however downplayed,
there is still a strong under-
current of subtle ethnic pro-
filing. A Fil-Am veterinar-
ian who had acquired his own
his hard-earned money that day.
His wife had to get sardines on
credit again the next day for the
four children to share when they
come back from school without a
single centavo for “baon.”
That is the tragedy of jueteng.
That is also the reason jueteng
should never be legalized, as is
again being proposed by some
lawmakers, following the disclo-
sure of retired Archbishop Os-
car Cruz, the biggest crusader
against jueteng, that two of Pres-
ident Aquino’s close aides are re-
ceiving P2 million each month
from jueteng operators.
While jueteng, or any form
of gambling for that matter, of-
fers a chance of solving one’s fi-
nancial problems in an instant,
it gives people false hopes and
buries them deeper in a culture
of dependency. Worse, jueteng
virtually robs money from the
bettors — who are almost cer-
tain to lose since only less than
10 percent of the total collection
is earmarked for winnings.
The jueteng operator rakes
in millions, the unscrupulous
police and government officials
make millions in exchange for
turning a blind eye, the jueteng
collectors make a little earning
and the poor bettors — millions
of them — each lose thousands
clinic said that he always
hires a white as receptionist
because patients don’t come
when they detect an accent
over the phone. This explains
why most children of Fil-Ams
can’t hack the mother tongue.
So it appears that when we in
the old country screw up, our
brothers in Eden also get the
uncomfortable squeeze.
Corruption, a shared first-
hand experience of balikbay-
ans, is perceived as the root
of failure. These experiences
are eagerly shared and the
fund of corruption stories
only grows with each vis-
it. But even as they deplore
the sorry state and misery of
the old country, its affirma-
tive dimension, subcutane-
ous for the most part, invari-
ably surfaces.
This dimension is true only
of pesos that should have gone
to their family’s meals, to pay
their bills and to give their kids
a decent education.
Proponents of the legaliza-
tion of jueteng, like the top two
Senate officials — Senate Presi-
dent Juan Ponce Enrile and Sen-
ate President Protempore Jing-
goy Estrada —say that the vice
has been there for generations,
and that “buying dreams” for a
few pesos wouldn’t hurt the bet-
tors. So, instead of removing this
“little joy” of poor Filipinos, why
not just legalize it and make the
government earn millions of pe-
sos in taxes, instead of the mon-
ey going to corrupt politicians?
Besides, tens of thousands of bet
collectors are earning income
from jueteng, why deprive them
of their livelihood?
If we are to follow this line of
reasoning, the government might
as well legalize the sale of shabu
and other illegal drugs, too. And
yes, prostitution. Thousands of
shabu dealers and drug pushers
earn a living peddling these illicit
drugs. Why deprive them of their
livelihood? Tens of thousands of
pimps and prostitutes make bun-
dles of money luring men for sex.
Why deprive them of their liveli-
hood? And why deprive the sha-
bu users of their “little joy” and
September 18 - 24, 2010
of first-generation Fil-Ams.
Reacting to our travails dur-
ing a Greyhound bus trip (ap-
parently a conveyance seri-
ously looked down upon in the
US), a newly minted Fil-Am
from Cebu remarked: "Mura
mag ‘Coca-Leung’." For the
uninitiated, "Coca-Leung" is
a Visayan shipping company
running ships where human
cargo contests space with pigs
and cattle. In other words, the
pits. This is part and parcel of
the affirmative dimension. A
first generation Fil-Am main-
tains, as his reference point,
his/her experience in the Phil-
ippines. Dan Ariely, in his very
captivating book Predictably
Irrational, demonstrates how
our decisions and our sense of
well-being depend on the rel-
See fabella on 7
pastime? Why deprive the men of
their “little joy” in the company
of the sex-for-money women?
Imagine the money that
the government would earn if
jueteng, shabu and drug deal-
ing and prostitution would be
legalized? All the money that
jueteng lords, drug dealers,
pimps and prostitutes pay as
bribes to police, military, local
and national officials would go
to the government coffers. And
presto, no more budget deficit
and the gross national product
(which would include monetary
transactions from these three
vices) would increase threefold.
It is the same mentality
that jueteng and other forms of
gambling have inculcated in
the minds of Filipinos for gen-
erations — the chance to earn
a quick buck. Indeed, with a
magic wand that would legal-
ize jueteng, the government
gets to earn easy money from
the gambling operators.
Jueteng victimizes the poor,
indeed, the very poor. Jueteng
deprives them of their hard-
earned money. A jueteng bet
gives them false hopes and false
dreams. Every time the poor
places a bet, he drowns deeper
See abelgas on 7
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Remembering
Bobby
“Strange, isn’t it, how a man’s
life touches so many other lives?
When he isn’t around, he leaves
an awful hole, doesn’t he?”
— Clarence The Angel in “It’s
a Wonderful Life”
S
everal days ago I received
an e-mail with an accom-
panying obituary notice
from one of my dear old high
school friends back in the old
homeland. It read, “To our dear-
est Bobby — a loving husband,
a caring father and a thought-
ful friend. Twenty years have
passed — our children and I
still remember your smile, your
voice and your love for us. To our
God, I still continue to pray to
let us meet again one day. Till
then Bobby, you will always be
in our thoughts and forever in
our hearts. I love you, Minnie.”
The e-mail concluded with a “We
The price of
leadership
T
he most striking anec-
dote on command re-
sponsibility and dele-
gation that I can recall is one
told by my late boss, Tony de
Joya, chairman of Advertising
& Marketing Associates. When
he was just executive vice pres-
dient and CEO of the agency,
he was upbraided by his pres-
ident, Jesus V. del Rosario, for
typos in a press release issued
by the agency.
Tony reasoned that the press
release had been reviewed and
proofread by the agency’s gen-
eral manager, his second in
command.
“Can he proofread better than
you?” Del Rosario asked.
“No,” replied Tony. “That’s
why I’m CEO.”
“Well then,” shot back Del
Rosario, “until he can proof-
read better than you, I will
hold you responsible for proof-
reading every document that
comes out of this agency.”
abelgas
Continued from p­­­­­age 6
in the quicksand of hopelessness
and despair, because the “little
dream” turns to disappointment
at the end of the day.
The country’s leaders must
erase the mentality of “if you
can’t lick ’em, join ’em.” The fact
that it has not been able to stop
the numbers game for genera-
tions does not give the govern-
ment reason to legalize jueteng.
It must muster the political will
to crush this cancer that has
gnawed upon the people’s mor-
al fabric for years. It must put a
stop to this biggest source of cor-
ruption in the country.
When asked how the jueteng
can be solved years ago, Archbish-
op Cruz said bluntly: “President
Arroyo only has to say the word,
and jueteng operations will stop.”
The militant archbishop
made it look too simple, but, on
thank our friends and relatives
who still pray for Bobby.”
Of course! An anniversary
says, “Don’t forget the memo-
ries. They are imperishable.”
You just don’t live a couple of de-
cades without doing a flip-flop in
several areas of your life. I sup-
pose the single most significant
one with me is in the realm of
friendship.
Many people breeze into our
lives, enter their claims on our
hearts and are still with us. This
is a blessing. But there are those
to whom we give our friendship
and receive love, and then one
day they are gone from us. We
call this heartache and pain.
And, like many deep emotions
that run straight to our hearts,
pain can be made easier with
therapeutic remembrance.
Outside of my family, I’ve
never experienced the loss of a
Of course, Del Rosario did
not mean that literally. But
the message was clear. Tony
promptly cracked the whip on
the entire agency to make sure
there would be no more em-
barrassing errors.
As I rose through the ranks in
the same ad agency, that proof-
reading anecdote influenced the
way I handled projects for which
I was accountable. I rationalized
that, since the buck would stop
with me anyway, it was better
to  personally do the job myself
rather than delegate.   If the leader is president of
It was, thus, with some con-
fusion that I took Tony’s un-
flattering assessment of my
performance as a manager,
and his terse advice: “If you
want to build a team, you
must learn to delegate.”
In effect, he told me: You’re
damned if you delegate, and
damned if you don’t.
It would take me a while
to appreciate this harsh reali-
the other hand, come to think
of it, all the country's problems
could be solved or at least mini-
mized if the national leadership
would only be sincere and de-
termined to wipe them out. It’s
called political will.
But does Aquino have the will?
If he has, he hasn’t shown it.
When Aquino appointed high-
ly respected former Mayor Jesse
Robredo of Naga City to head the
Department of Interior and Lo-
cal Government, Robredo said the
president had “issued a very clear
directive to stop jueteng.” But the
following day, Robredo, who com-
pletely crushed jueteng in Naga
City when he was mayor, clarified
that his focus would be the em-
powerment of local governments.
Aquino was later quoted as say-
ing that eradicating jueteng was
not a priority of his government.
When informed that Arch-
bishop Cruz has tagged two
of his closest aides as recipi-
genuinely good friend before —
a part-of-the-furniture person
you would never imagine dis-
appearing (that’s why we take
them for granted). You can’t pick
your family, or most of your busi-
ness associates, but your friends
are just for you. You guard them
and relish time with them be-
cause they make you happy.
Sometimes you’re lucky and get
to say goodbye to the friend who
is retiring or moving out of town;
sometimes you’re not so fortu-
nate.
I can’t say I fully appreciat-
ed an author’s sentiments be-
fore now, when she wrote about
death among her associates
in one of her earliest columns.
Now, I am constantly reminded
of times when a long-time friend
or acquaintance who I had only
just really gotten to know would
announce their retirement or
die, and the strange feeling of
wishing they wouldn’t leave
quite so soon, that I’d had the
opportunity to know them bet-
ter. Other folks might call you
and say, “What a shame. You re-
ally should have met them. They
were amazing.” Each time I’d
think, “Well, the world changed
just a little bit today.”
A person’s death, like life, of-
ten is complex and difficult to
sum up in absolute right-and-
wrong terms. In our close asso-
ciation with those who have ex-
perienced death, we know the
emotions that accompany their
loss — grief, anger, confusion,
resentment, even bitterness —
ty that confronts everyone who
leads or manages others. In a
much larger sense, this is the
same harsh reality confronting
President Noynoy Aquino. Lead-
ership has a price.
Whether corporate manager
or president of a country, a lead-
er has no choice but to delegate,
to work with a team, to pass on
functions down a chain of com-
mand. A one-man army only
happens in “Rambo” movies. But
while a leader can delegate func-
tions and authority, ultimate re-
sponsibility and accountability
cannot be delegated.  
If operations bog down for
lack of proper delegation, the
leader has to take the heat.
On the other hand, if he del-
egates and his subordinates
mess things up, he still needs
to the heat.
In both cases, he must ac-
cept full responsibility and be
answerable to the boss, the
person above him on the cor-
porate ladder. If he’s the CEO
of a corporation, he answers to
the board or the stockholders.
Thus, Tony Hayward, the CEO
of British Petroleum, got the
axe for the massive oil spill in
the Gulf of Mexico.
the country, he is answerable
to the citizenry. It must be as-
sumed that P-Noy was aware
of this when he took the job. It
should, therefore, be no surprise
that he took full responsibility
for the hostage tragedy.
Remember what he said in
his inaugural speech? He said
that the Filipino people were his
bosses. Thus, he had no choice
but to take the blame.
ents of jueteng money, he went
into the usual defensive mode:
“Name names.”
Aquino said his aides could
have been the victims of name-
dropping or a set-up. Worse, he
said P2 million a month is “such
a pitiful amount: compared to the
P37 billion annually estimated to
be the size of the jueteng indus-
try. Parang napaka-cheap na-
man naming lahat dito,” he said.
Maybe the two aides should have
asked for P10 million a month?
Cruz, in exasperation in the
lack of resolve of the Aquino ad-
ministration to stop jueteng,
said: “The past administration
was notorious for its patronage
of jueteng. It is my hope that the
present administration, which
claims to be the opposite of the
past administration, will be able
to demonstrate its resolve and
not just go ‘blah, blah, blah.’”
Again, I say amen. (vala-
belgas@aol.com)
All folks embraced
Bobby as he welcomed
all people, I can say with
certainty. But he held
a special place in the
heart and soul of the
class of 1964.
are very real. We all fear for the
brevity of life. When would it be
our turn to experience this? Fear
of the unknown is a major rea-
son that people find themselves
stuck on familiar grounds.
We know, too, that the oblig-
atory obituaries — even though
painful at the time — help them
face the reality of death and be-
gin to adjust to it.
Mainstream newspapers
such as The New York Times
publish an annual review of peo-
ple who died each year who left
a particular mark on the world.
I am sure all readers have their
own such list. I certainly do. In-
deed, someone who made an im-
portant difference in my life and
who died some twenty years ago.
This month of September
was the 20th anniversary of
the death of my good friend
and classmate since the grades
school to high school — Rober-
to “Bobby” Jongco. I say it is also
my honor to pay tribute to one of
the most beloved friends I have
been privileged to know in my
life.
But the kibitzers and pun-
dits are dead wrong when they
conclude that taking responsi-
bility means absolving every-
one else. The manager or leader
who takes ultimate responsibil-
ity must also exercise both his
authority and his duty to crack
the whip on his subordinates, to
chop heads, to get to the bottom
of the foul-up to ensure that it
never happens again.
Thus, everyone below P-Noy
— and I mean, EVERYONE —
who had anything to do with the
mishandling of that tragic in-
cident must, in turn, not only
be made to answer for it, they
should step forward and accept
their share of the blame.
Now, this is where you sep-
arate the warriors from the
cub scouts. The managers
from the gofers. The nobles
from the peons. The leaders
from the followers.
In this regard, we have rea-
son to be disappointed — nay,
disgusted — at the buck-pass-
ing and blame-dodging that
have marked the aftermath of
this national embarrassment.
The Filipino people have a
right to expect a certain qual-
ity in their leaders. Call it in-
t e g r i t y. P r i d e . M a n l i n e s s .
Professionalism. A sense of re-
sponsibility. Courage.
Call it balls.
Sadly, that quality appears
to be lacking in many of those
involved. Watching Justice Sec-
retary Leila de Lima strive to
get to the bottom of the incident
has been liked watching an ar-
bularyo pulling teeth.
I’m reminded of two vice
presidents at the ad agen-
fabella
Continued from p­­­­­age 6
evant reference points we
adopt. The worse the refer-
ence point, the better the
current state appears. In
other words, first-genera-
tion Fil-Ams who made the
conscious decision to quit
the old country get affirmed
in that decision every time a
story of old country misery
is rehashed.
The second- and fur-
ther-generation Fil-Ams do
not have the "Coca-Leung
props." They suffer from sub-
tle ethnic profiling but can-
not fall back on the experi-
ence of class profiling in the
old country, i.e., being "sec-
ond-classed" to favor wang-
wang-empowered "congress-
man" or "governor." They
are, therefore, more resent-
ful of the slight and may
“Life is too short to be bogged
down with trivialities. Live like
you were dying — because we
all are regardless. Love more
deeply, deal with things that you
have avoided up to this point, at-
tend to the need of others in ad-
dition to your own, and be true
and authentic in all you do,” I
recall reading it somewhere. I
truly believed Bobby lived his
life as such. There is a reason I
am prompted to say more. Bob-
by stood for such great values
as unity and loyalty in our lit-
tle community of school class-
mates and hometown friends,
such openness to the world that
we are honored and privileged to
be a part of this. Bobby’s success
in creating enduring friendship,
respect and understanding, his
personal endeavor and his love
of music is absolutely outstand-
ing.
All folks embraced Bobby as
he welcomed all people, I can
say with certainty. But he held
a special place in the heart
and soul of the class of 1964 at
our hometown’s Villamor High
School, particularly. He was an
incredibly down-to-earth stal-
wart, a trailblazer in the local
banking business, who saw all
people as divine human beings
— complete with purpose, un-
limited power and possibilities.
“I wanted to try and honor his
memory … If there is anything I
could do, it would be this — just
being someone who remembers
him,” I recollect one of the many
e-mails I’ve gotten in response
cy where I used to work, from
whom I demanded an explana-
tion concerning an important
project that was bungled. Each
one vigorously explained his
side and what he did right.   Rico Puno, had been given di-
I cut them both short. “Even
if it’s 99 percent, I’m not inter-
ested in what you did right,” I
said. “I want to hear about the
one percent that you did wrong.”
But the two VPs lacked that
key quality of leadership. Balls.
I asked them to leave my room.
S i m i l a r l y, w h a t w e h a v e
heard from those who had a role
in the tragedy have been rea-
sons why they were not at fault
or, in the tradition of the wea-
sel, why they were NOT COM-
PLETELY at fault.
Only P-Noy has taken the hit
squarely on the chin. And right-
ly so. But one would have ex-
pected the other members of his
team to walk courageously into
the gauntlet and stoically accept
their share of the blows.
Mayor Lim’s denial that he
ordered the arrest but only gave
instructions to handcuff Grego-
rio Mendoza, the hostage-tak-
er’s brother, is reminiscent of
former U.S. President Bill Clin-
ton denying that he had sex
with Monica Lewinsky.
Lim could have shown the
country and his former po -
lice comrades what it means
to be called “Manila’s Finest”
by taking responsibility and
being the epitomé of the no-
blest of the corps. Sadly, the
man  who used to cause crimi-
nals to cringe in fear chose to
split hairs and wash his hands.
DILG Secretary Designate
Jesse Robredo probably gave
blame their parents for their
ethnicity and affinity to the
failing old country. Japa-
nese, Korean or Chinese sec-
ond-generation Americans
are not spared but the ubiq-
uity of Lexuses, Kias, Sam-
sungs, and Acers on the road
or the living rooms assuag-
es the sting. The vehemence
with which a second-gen-
eration Fil-Am in Fremont
CA expressed disgust over
the country’s backward slide
and his persistence in the
search for ways to help out
was informative. Not that
first-generation Fil-Ams do
not care; they are just a tad
more accepting.
Overall, and increasingly
among the senior first-gen-
eration Fil-Ams for whom
the Coca-Leung props have
lost its value, the desire to
see the country progress is
intense. There is a genu-
7
to his family’s obituary notice in
the newspaper. They were ab-
solutely grateful that they had
been able to touch, know, and
experience a profound human
being nicknamed Bobby.
All friends are treasured, but
old friends are extraordinary. To
me, Bobby was definitely a man
who believed that the secret for
success in life was getting the
fundamentals right. Through
it all, my old friend smiled and
returned friendship with love
and stayed the course as do all
great men. He remained true
to his heart, and he cared for
those whose lives were entrust-
ed to him, and we all returned
his love.
“I’m sure there’s a plan some-
where,” a family friend once
said, “but I don’t know what it
is other than Bobby left a legacy
beyond anything you can imag-
ine.”
Our time here on Earth is
brief. Time passes and things
change. You have options and
choices in which to make your
wishes, dreams and goals be-
come reality. And those personal
friendships that we hold in such
high regard deserve those ped-
estals, because ultimately they
shape our worlds, a little bit, ev-
ery single day.
No one in my time, no one
else if I may say so, has shown
us as truly, as lovingly, as skill-
fully, as memorably, as Bobby
genuinely did.
I am a grateful friend.
Yes, of course.
a completely accurate state-
ment when he said that he
was “out the loop” in the man-
agement of the hostage crisis
because his undersecretary,
rect authority over the PNP
by P-Noy himself.
U n f o r t u n a t e l y, R o b r e d o
missed one great opportunity
to demonstrate his true worth
as a leader of men, someone
who deserves to have full con-
trol of every department of
DILG, including the PNP.
He could simply have said,
“Mr. President, I take full re-
sponsibility for the failure of the
PNP, because Undersecretary
Puno is my subordinate and the
PNP is under my command.”
Having said that, he would
have had moral ascendancy
over his subordinate, as well
as all the other bungling of-
ficers of Manila’s Keystone
Kops. Of course, he could then
have done the honorable thing,
namely tender his resignation.
And P-Noy, seeing the lead-
ership qualities of such a man,
could have prevailed upon him
to stay. Because leaders like
that are a rarity.
But maybe I’m fantasizing.
Maybe it only happens in the
movies.
As it is, P-Noy’s lonely cir-
cumstance reminds me of that
strip in Mad Comics where The
Lone Ranger and Tonto found
themselves surrounded by
bloodthirsty Indians.
“Looks like we’re surround-
ed,” said the masked hero.
At this, Tonto replied, “What
you mean we?” (gregmacaben-
ta@hotmail.com)
ine admiration and pleasant
wonder over P-Noy’s refus-
ing to override red lights for
himself to underscore his re-
jection of the wangwang cul-
ture and the spectacle of the
Arroyos at the back of the
queue at the NAIA. There is
a renewed sense of "payback
time." They have, of course,
also been disappointed in
the past. Follow-through is,
after all, a known soft un-
derbelly of past leadership.
Could P-Noy really deliver
the new beginning?
Raul V. Fabella is the vice
vhairman of the Institute
for Development and Econo-
metric Analysis, a professor
at the UP School of Econom-
ics, and a member of the Na-
tional Academy of Science
and Technology.
For comments and inqui-
ries, please e-mail us at idea.
introspective@gmail.com.
8 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Memory Sports-related
loss
common concussions
on the
in men
rise
By Bill Hendrick
Men may experience mild loss
among
of memory and thinking skills
more often than women, new re-
search suggests.
And the reason may be gender
youths
related, said study researcher
Dr. Ronald Petersen of the Mayo
Clinic in Rochester, Minn.
The study shows that a con-
dition known as mild cognitive
impairment (MCI), which some-
times leads to Alzheimer's dis-
ease, affects men more than
women.
People with mild cognitive im-
pairment notice problems with
memory and thinking skills be-
yond what would be expected
due to the normal aging process,
and their lapses are often detect-
ed by others.
Research has shown that peo-
ple with mild cognitive impair-
ment are at increased risk of
developing Alzheimer's disease
within a few years. But not ev-
eryone who gets a diagnosis of
mild cognitive impairment goes
on to develop Alzheimer's.
Mild cognitive impairment:
Men vs. women
Petersen's study found that
mild cognitive impairment was
1.5 times higher in men com-
See memory on 9
By Salynn Boyles
T
he number of young
children treated in hos-
pital ERs for concus-
sions they got while playing
on sports teams has doubled
in just a decade, a new study
shows.
While the concussion rate is
higher among high-school-age
athletes, researchers say the
rate among younger athletes
is both significant and rising.
The study represents the
first attempt to document the
national incidence of sports-
related concussions among chil-
dren in elementary and middle
school.
Concussions most common in
football, hockey
The analysis of data from hos-
pital emergency departments
across the nation revealed that:
• Roughly half a million ER
visits for concussions occurred
among 8- to 19-year-olds be-
tween 2001 and 2005.
• About half were sports-
related, and 40 percent of
sports-related concussions in-
volved children between the
ages of 8 and 13.
• Football and ice hockey
were the organized sports with
the most concussion injuries,
and snow skiing, bicycling, and
playground injuries accounted
for the most concussions occur-
ring from non-team-related ac-
tivities.
Even though participation in
organized sports has declined
slightly, team-related concus-
sions doubled between 1997
and 2007 in 8- to 13-year-olds
and more than doubled in older
teens, Brown University pediat-
ric emergency medical specialist
Dr. Lisa L. Bakhos said.
"We don't really know why
See concussions on 9
September 18 - 24, 2010
Autopsies
a lesson
for the
living
SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Au-
topsies and examinations
performed by the Medical Ex-
aminer during the past year
reveal concerning trends
about what’s killing people.
The Medical Examiner’s
office performed 2,707 au-
topsies and examinations
in 2009. Of those cases, the
leading cause of death was
cardiovascular disease, ac-
counting for 592 cases. That
was followed by drug- and
medication-related deaths,
with 443 cases.
“The number of drug-re-
lated deaths continues to
rise, and it’s not just illegal
drugs but also prescription
medications that are in-
volved. Drug-related deaths
have increased 85 percent
over the past 10 years,”
said Chief Medical Examin-
er Glenn Wagner.
Additional trends include:
• Drug- and alcohol-re-
lated deaths have been the
number one cause of non-
natural deaths since 2003.
There were 132 alcohol-re-
lated deaths last year.
• Suicides have been on
the rise since 2007, increas-
ing 20 percent since 2006.
• Deaths related to motor
vehicles are at a ten-year low,
with 284 cases last year.
• Homicides remained
lower than the 10-year aver-
age of 127, with 109 in 2009.
About half of the deaths
in the county are report-
ed to the Medical Examiner
— approximately 11,000
d e a t h s e a c h y e a r. A b o u t
3,000 of those lead to inves-
tigations. To see the com-
plete Medical Examiner
2009 statistics, visit www.
sdcounty.ca.gov/me.
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS
concussions
Continued from p­­­­­age 8
this is," she said. "We know
that kids are bigger now than
they were in the past, which
could be contributing to this
trend. And sports seem to be
more competitive."
Concussion risk higher for girls
The study appears in the
September issue of Pediatrics,
along with a new report from
the American Academy of Pedi-
atrics examining sports-relat-
ed concussions in children and
adolescents.
The report identified foot-
ball as the organized sport
most commonly associated
with concussions.
It also confirmed that fe-
male athletes have a higher
rate of concussions than boys
who play similar sports. The
reasons for this are not well
understood.
One theory is that girls are
more likely to sustain head
injuries from a hit because
they have weaker neck mus-
cles, said pediatric sports inju-
ry specialist Dr. Mark E. Hal-
stead of Children's Hospital St.
Louis.
"In my experience, girls
also tend to be more aggres-
sive in their sports than guys,"
he said. "That may also be a
factor."
Long-term concussion risks
Halstead said much more
is known about the potential
for long-term brain injury and
even death from concussions
today than a decade ago.
The deaths of two North
Carolina high school foot-
ball players in less than two
months in 2008 led that state
to require a doctor's clearance
before high school athletes
can play or practice following
a concussion.
The AAP wants to see the
policy adopted nationwide for
all children and teens playing
sports.
Halstead said a week or 10
days on the sidelines is typical
for most uncomplicated con-
cussions, but many individual
factors come into play.
Parents and coaches also
need to know how to spot con-
cussion symptoms. Halstead
said fewer than 10% of kids
lose consciousness. Amnesia is
more common but does not al-
ways occur.
Other common symptoms
include: Confusion, headache,
dizziness, ringing in the ears,
nausea, slurred speech and fa-
tigue.
Symptoms that may not
manifest until days after the
injury include memory or con-
centration problems, light and
noise sensitivity, sleep distur-
bances, irritability, and depres-
sion.
The AAP recommends re-
stricting both physical and
mental exertion until symp-
toms have resolved. Halstead
said schoolwork, playing video
games, and even watching TV
can all make symptoms worse.
(webmd.com)
memory
Continued from p­­­­­age 8
pared to women.
"This is the first study con-
ducted among community-
dwelling persons to find a
higher prevalence of MCI [mild
cognitive impairment] in men,"
Petersen said in a news re-
lease. "If these results are con-
firmed in other studies, it may
suggest that factors related to
gender play a role in the dis-
ease."
Testing memory skills
The researchers conduct-
ed in-person interviews with
2,050 men and women between
the ages of 70 and 89 in Olm-
stead County, Minn. Partici-
pants were asked about their
memories and their medical
history. They were tested on
memory and thinking skills.
The study shows that:
• 14 percent of participants
had mild cognitive impair-
ment.
• About 10 percent had de-
mentia.
• 76 percent had normal
memory and thinking skills.
• 19 percent of the men had
mild cognitive impairment,
compared to 14 percent of the
women.
• 3.3 percent of those inter-
viewed face-to-face had a de-
mentia that had not been de-
tected by records or other
methods.
"Our results, showing com-
bined rates of MCI and demen-
tia at 22 percent, highlight the
public health impact these con-
ditions have and the impor-
tance of finding treatments for
them," Petersen said.
People in the study who had
a low level of education or who
had never been married had a
higher rate of mild cognitive
impairment.
Those subjects with an ApoE
e4 gene, linked to increased
risk for Alzheimer's disease,
were also found to have an in-
creased rate of mild cognitive
impairment.
The study is published in
Neurology, the journal of the
American Academy of Neurol-
ogy. (webmd.com)
Advertise with us
The
(619) 477-0940
or check us on-line
filipinopress.com
Model grand opening set for
Oct. 2 at San Carlos Court
IRVINE, Calif. — A brand
new attached home in Irvine
can be yours from just the low
$300,000s.
San Carlos Court in the Vil-
lage of Portola Springs current-
ly has the lowest prices within
this Irvine community, which
makes now a great time to take
advantage of pre-sale values on
a contemporary attached town-
home or flat, before the neigh-
borhood's model grand opening
on Oct. 2.
Share the excitement of this
incredible opportunity via Face-
book and Twitter with friends
and family who are looking for
the perfect Irvine address and
also take a virtual tour of San
Carlos Court 24/7 by clicking on
www.lyonsancarloscourt.com to-
day.
“The bottom line for every
smart consumer is dollars and
cents, and San Carlos Court
adds up to one amazing oppor-
tunity for first-time buyers who
9
want to live in a vibrant Irvine
community. Newlyweds who are
just starting their lives togeth-
er as well as local professionals,
young families and those who
want to be near their grandchil-
dren are quickly realizing this
neighborhood makes homeown-
ership attainable in the presti-
gious city of Irvine,” said Lesley
Pennington, director of sales for
William Lyon Homes.
To visit San Carlos Court
from the I-405 or I-5 freeways,
exit Sand Canyon and proceed
north. Turn right onto Porto-
la Parkway and right onto Sil-
verado. Turn right on Cienega
and then right on Full Moon to
the Sales Gallery (on right-hand
side), which is open daily from
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. For more infor-
mation, call 888-248-1533.
Prices are effective as of the
date of publication. All homes
are subject to prior sale. Pric-
es and availability of homes are
subject to change without notice.
10 THE FILIPINO PRESS
AURORA SORIANO-CUDAL
My Personal
Testimony
Dealing with a
friend’s betrayal
H
ave you ever expe-
rienced being be-
trayed by your best
friend and business partner?
It hurts doesn’t it? You can’t
sleep for thinking about it.
You even cry as you recall
how much you’ve shared
your time and resources in
putting the business togeth-
er. How would you deal with
a friend’s betrayal?
I’ve experienced being be-
trayed by a friend but it did
not get the better of me.
Through my hurt and confu-
sion, I learned to adopt an
attitude based on the Holy
Scriptures. I share what Dr.
Charles Stanley wrote in his
In Touch magazine, “When we
are persecuted,” he writes:
* Vi e w w h a t e v e r c o m e s
your way as something God
is going to use for His great-
er purpose (Rom.8:28). This
keeps you from becoming bit-
ter, hostile or vengeful. When
the Lord allows people to
Chapel of Roses
Nature Garden
touch your life, see them as
instrument — even if they
cause great pain — because
He has something bigger in
mind that’s completely differ-
ent from their intent toward
you. They are not in control.
God is in control.
* Keep your focus on the
Lord, no matter what. If you
don’t, you’re going to react.
In Isaiah 41:10, God reas-
sures us: “Do not fear, for I
am with you; do not anxious-
ly look about you.” Satan am-
plifies everything that looks
like opposition. He wants you
to think that the situation is
worst than it is. That’s why
God wants you to focus your
mind and heart on Him.
* Completely rely upon
God’s strength. Conflict, per-
secution and spiritual war-
fare can drain your physical,
emotional and spiritual ener-
gy. You may be perfectly right
in what you are standing for,
but extreme pressure can
Glen Abbey Memorial
Park & Mortuary
619-498-4600
cause you to doubt the Lord’s
strength in your life. Psalm
61:2-4 says, “From the end of
the earth I call to You when
my heart is faint; lead me to
the rock that is higher than
I. For You have been a refuge
for me, a tower of strength
against the enemy. Let me
take refuge in the shelter of
Your wings.”
* Recognize that you are
fighting a spiritual battle. It’s
important for you to know the
battle you’re in. Ask your self,
Am I in the place where the
Lord wants me, doing the job
He wants me to do? What’s at
stake if I win or lose? Will I
be glorified in this or will all
glory go to God? Sometimes,
“winning doesn’t mean run-
ning somebody else out. Rath-
er, it’s being able to endure
and keep moving without de-
fending yourself, blasting
someone else, or seeking ven-
geance. Sometimes winning
is just standing firm so that
God’s witness is strength -
ened.” As Paul said, “Be
strong in the Lord and in the
strength of His might. Put on
the whole armor of God, so
that you will be able to stand
firm against the schemes of
the devil.” (Ephesians 6:10)
* Expect to be victorious.
We can expect to win every
battle God allows in our lives
because of His ultimate sov-
ereignty not because of our
strength, our wisdom or our
experience. If you walk obedi-
ently with the Lord, whatev-
er He allows will eventually
be for your good and His glory
(Romans 8:37)
DANNY HERNAEZ
From Whom All
Blessings Flow
True riches
T
o illustrate the
mixed-up values
of his day, Danish phi-
losopher Soren Kierkeg-
aard told a modern day par-
able about thieves who broke
into a jewelry store at night.
Instead of stealing anything,
they merely switched the
price tags, putting high-val-
ue tickets on costume jewel-
ry and bargain tags on pre-
mium gems.
Money, health, youth, possessions ...
these are all temporary things that can be
lost as quickly as they are gained. Being
right with God is the only eternal thing.
I find that to be a wonder-
ful illustration of what Je-
sus said when he came. He
looked at the world's values
and declared them to be up-
side down. All of the price
tags were wrong.
Greatness, he said, is to
be found in service. Self-
sacrifice is the only way
to save one's life. The first
shall be last and the last
shall be first. Statement
after statement sought to
change the priorities and
preferences of mankind.
In Revelation chapter 2, we
find this statement from Je-
sus to a group of Christians:
"I know your afflictions and
your poverty - yet you are
rich!" (Revelation 2:9). Perse-
cuted and oppressed because
of their faith, these followers
of Jesus had fallen on hard
times financially.
Ye t J e s u s c o u l d l o o k a t
September 18 - 24, 2010
them and declare them rich. 
Then Jesus turns to another
group of believers and tells
them: "You say, 'I am rich;
I have acquired wealth and
do not need a thing.' But
you do not realize that you
are wretched, pitiful, poor,
blind and naked." (Revela-
tion 3:17) Jesus doesn't see
things the way the world
sees them. He knew that
these wealthy Christians
were destitute on the inside.
The world's price tags aren't
in the right place. True riches
are not measured with dollar
signs. They can't be found in
storage units or warehouses.
True wealth doesn't rise and
fall with the stock market. A
man can have lots of money
and plenty of possessions, yet
be very poor indeed. We can't
trust the world's judgment as
to who is rich and who is poor.
The price tags aren't in the
right place.
S o w h a t m a t t e r s ?  R e -
lationships. Our relation -
ship with God and our rela-
tionship with other people.
Money, health, youth, posses-
sions... these are all tempo-
rary things that can be lost
as quickly as they are gained.
Being right with God is the
only eternal thing. And we
can't be right with God if we
aren't right with the people
around us.
Don't trust in the tags
that the world has put on the
things around us. Only Je-
sus can tell us what is real-
ly of value. Only Jesus can
make us rich in the ways
that count.
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 11

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TAWAG NA PO KAYO!

619-425-2273 • 619-425-0648
858-201-9533
We accept all major credit cards. All prices are subject to change without prior notice.

Email: Interglobaltravel@yahoo.com

ROOM
FOR RENT
$450 a month
Utilities
included
Close to
freeways
(5 and 805)
Near bus stops
Please call
(619) 423-6436
12 THE FILIPINO PRESS September 18 - 24, 2010

Enhanced trolley service NAAMBA names top companies

on track for Chargers game for Asian-Americans for 2010
SAN DIEGO, Calif. — Start-
ing three hours before kick-off, ex-
tra Trolleys will run on the Green
Line between Old Town and
Qualcomm Stadium and between
the 70th Street Station and Qual-
comm Stadium. After the game,
the MTS will operate extra Green
Line service in both directions as
needed. Both the Blue Line and
Orange Line will provide regular-
ly scheduled service.
Due to Federal Transit Ad-
ministration regulations, MTS
will not provide Char-
gers Express bus service to the
Chargers’ games this year. In-
stead, MTS encourages fans to
take the Trolley.
Fans heading to Qualcomm
via the Trolley can use free
Green Line park & ride lots
at Old Town, Morena, Haz-
ard Center (lower level only),
Grantville, Grossmont Center,
Amaya Dr. (La Mesa), El Cajon
Transit Center, Gillespie Field,
and Santee Town Center.
This year MTS will be offer-
ing Trolley riders special Com-
memorative Day Passes. Each
Pass features an image of a
Chargers player and will be
good for round-trip travel on
the Trolley for a specific game
d a y. C o m m e m o r a t i v e D a y
Passes can be purchased in ad-
vance at The Transit Store in
downtown and at The Char-
gers Store at Qualcomm Stadi-
um. The passes are also sold at
ticket kiosks before the game.
Individual passes are $5 each
and the set of 10 is $50.
Customers are encouraged to
buy day passes before boarding
the Trolley on their way to their
event in order to save time and
avoid ticket lines. Day passes to
Qualcomm are $5. Tickets may
be purchased at all Trolley sta-
tion ticket vending machines,
the Transit Store or selected
stations with ticket booths.
For further information on
special event services, visit
www.sdmts.com or contact 511.
By Allure Llorente
Filipino Press Contributing Writer
NEW YORK — State Farm
received the Top Company for
Asian-Americans Award dur-
ing the National Association of
Asian MBA’s (NAAMBA) Gala
Awards Dinner at the Jacob K.
Javits Convention Center in
Manhattan on Aug. 27.
The ceremony was the high-
light of the Second Annual
Asian MBA Leadership Con-
ference and Career Expo held
in New York from Aug. 26-28.
The three-day session kicked
off with VIP reception at Thom-
son Reuters headquarters in
Times Square hosted by Jino
Ahn, president and founder of
NAAMBA, followed by a series
BUSINESS
of seminars and workshops for
Asian MBA’s and a Jobs in Asia
exhibit at the Javits Center.
Other corporations included
in the Top Ten Companies for
Asian-Americans Awards were
IBM, Pepsi Co., Google, Micro-
soft, Johnson and Johnson, Wal-
Mart, HSBC, GE and Disney.
The event was organized by
the NAAMBA, a leading non-
profit organization which serves
as a platform to unite and em-
power the pan-Asian American
professional community and di-
aspora. It provides opportuni-
ties for top-level professional de-
velopment in the U.S. and the
global business network.
The professional development
workshops and seminars were
held on the second day of the
conference. Some of the nota-
ble speakers in attendance were
Lily Tang, consultant and coach
at The Future Work Institute,;
Betty Wong, global managing ed-
itor for Reuters; Anju Bhargava,
member of President Obama’s
Advisory Council on Faith-
Based Initiatives and Neighbor-
hood Partnerships; Frans Jo-
hanson, founder of the Medici
Group; Kevin Brady, director of
diversity at McDonald’s; Manish
Mehta, vice president for social
media and community for Dell
Computers; Michael E. Chen,
president and CEO for GE Cap-
ital; Michelle Scales, director of
multicultural markets for Wells
ecutive chair for Target; Lynn
Wong, manager of import op-
erations for Home Depot; Hari
Avula, vice president for sales
and finance for Pepsi Beverag-
es Company; Ouraphone Siri-
Outhay, director of diversity for
United Health Group; and Anan-
da Chakravarty, product director
for Monster Worldwide.
The only Filipino speaker at
the conference was Brad Baldia,
national president and chair-
man of the National Association
of Asian American Profession-
als. Baldia is also the founding
president of the organization’s
Philadelphia chapter. He serves
on various boards for multicul-
tural and Asian-Pacific Islander
committees and councils.
The final day of the conference
featured the Asian MBA Career
Expo and the Jobs in Asia Pa-
vilion, which opened with more
than 100 booths offering possi-
ble opportunities to MBA-hold-
ers. It also included a career re-
sources marketplace, a company
information session, and indus-
try networking sessions, career
coaching workshops and resume
critiquing services.
Other awards presented in-
cluded the Global Executive
Excellence Award to Toshiharu
Okimuro, chairman and CEO of
Casio America, Inc.; the Emerg-
ing Leader Award to Ida Liu,
managing director of Citi Pri-
vate Bank; and the Communi-
ty Leadership Award to J.D. Yo-
koyama, president and CEO of

Get Results Fargo; Zarina Stanford, director

of demand programs for IBM,;
The
Craig Williams, U.S. vice pres-
dident for the McDonald’s Divi-
A free weekly publication that
sion at the Coca-Cola Company,;
serves the 150,000 plus Filipino- Kelly Chow, corporate vice pres-
Americans of San Diego County. ident for New York Life; Calvin
Call (619) 477-0940 Chung, director of construction
or check us on-line and Asian Business Council ex-
filipinopress.com
Leadership Education for Asian
Pacific. The awards dinner was
hosted by Vivian Lee, anchor
and reporter for NY 1-TV.
For more information on
NAAMBA and the next Asian
MBA Conference in New York
in September 2011, visit www.
asianmba.org.

Check us out: The

www. .com
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS
API youths pitch in to help Feeding America
By Marissa Acierto
SAN DIEGO, Calif. —
A team of Asian Pacific Island-
ers (APIs) youth and commu-
nity leaders remembered the
Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
by volunteering for Feeding
America on Saturday, Sept. 11.
The facilitator was Joe
Long, a Vietnamese-American
and an organizer of the Asian
Community Luncheon, which
is a new community organi-
zation committed to bringing
people together.
Feeding America’s mission
is to feed the hungry, to advo-
cate and educate.  ica,” said June Nguyen, the
Approximately 437,500
multi-ethnic individuals re-
ceive assistance. A total of
73,200 are supported every
week. The assistance is provid-
ed to seniors, those who have
children under 18, for unem-
ployed adults and those with
incomes below poverty level
and the homeless.
Feeding America began its
aid operation on Oct. 9, 2007,
when it distributed food in
the parking lot of a local part-
ner agencies, the San Diego
Rescue Mission. Within four
months of the first food drive,
distribution led to a move to a
30,000-square-foot warehouse
Pediatric practice opens new branch
CHULA VISTA, Calif. – A
new branch of Dr. Blanca Fres-
no’s Paradise Valley Health
Center pediatric practice is
now open in Chula Vista.
Citing a need for pediatric
services in Chula Vista since
most established pediatricians
in the are are completely sat-
urated by the rapid growth of
the city, Dr. Fresno said her
new clinic is poised to meet
those needs.
“We feel that this office is lo-
cated in a neighborhood that
is growing fast and is vibrant
with the energy of young fam-
ilies,” said Fresno, who has
been a doctor for 30 years and
practices pediatrics at her Par-
adise Family Health Center
clinic in National City.
“We offer comprehensive pe-
diatric care from birth until 18
years of age,” Fresno said. “This
includes all the immunizations
Volunteers from the Pilipino American Youth Organization, Vietnamese
American Youth Alliance, American Red Cross Council and Asian
Community Luncheon.
and office in February 2008.  can Youth Alliance and Angela
Joining the volunteer crew
was Julio de Guzman of the
Asian Community Luncheon.
The support team included
Katrina Gaffud-Benfer, Gwen
Coronado and Eddie En-
riquez. Members of the Lions
Club attending included Clan-
do Brownlee (Brotherhood Li-
ons Club), June Barnick and
Steven Barnick. API youth or-
ganizers included the Pilipi-
no American Youth Organi-
zation’s Julius Alejandro and
J u a n i t o A m o r. A l e x N g u y -
en, Also attending were June
N g u y e n a n d S y d n e y Tr a n
from the Vietnamese Ameri-
Employees of the new branch of Dr. Blanca Fresno’s Paradise Valley Health
Center pediatric practice which recently opened at 1741 Eastlake Pkwy, Ste. 207.
that a child needs through in- diatric illnesses and do sports
fancy and their school years, physicals, which are very pop- tional City is located at 655 Eu-
plus checkups for growth and ular among teens.”
development, as well as antic-
ipatory guidance for parents. tion is designed to be a paper- (Chula Vista) or (619) 475-4575
We also take care of most pe- less, environmentally friendly (National City).
Photo: Courtesy photo
Nguyen of the American Red
Cross Council. Hoa Quach, ed-
itor of AolPatch.com San Diego
also helped with the youth.
A brief presentation was
conducted by the ACL organiz-
ers before the API team toured
the warehouse and began sort-
ing, repairing damaged boxes,
lifting and organizing portion
control of food.
Many of the API teams spread
out to take up different tasks,
such as the heavy-lifting provid-
ed by the PAYO organizers.
Juanito Amor has been a
youth advisor for the Filipino-
American community and has
Photo: Courtesy photo
clid Ave., Ste. 207. For more in-
Fresno added the new loca- formation, call (619) 482-1700
paved the way for mentoring
youth, such as Julius Alejan-
dro, to show that the youth can
partake a role in many activi-
ties in the Fil-Am and main-
stream communities. 
“Our youth organization is
busy with so many projects,
especially the annual Tiet Fes-
tival in Balboa Park, which I
am very proud to be a part of,
and we want to show our el-
ders that they have showed
a way for us youth to perpet-
uate and continue our vision
and culture while allowing us
to also participate in worthy
causes such as Feeding Amer-
second-generation Vietnam-
ese-American youth organizer.
American Red Cross Coun-
cil volunteers and students
from North County groups
such as 4S Ranch and neigh-
boring cities sorted, checked
expiration dates and repaired
damaged boxes.
For information on how
to volunteer, contact volun-
teer coordinator Brandi Love
at blove@feedingamericasd.
org or Joe Long at Joesand-
iego2000@yahoo.com.
Feeding America is located
at 9151 Rehco Road, Suite B, in
Mira Mar. Tours of the facility
are encouraged.
clinic.
“We are located very closed
to nature,” she said. “In fact,
we can say we are at the bot-
tom of the hills in Otay Ranch.
We are close to Sharp Chu-
la Vista and Scripps, and of
course we can connect with
Paradise Valley Hospital via
the 125 freeway.”
With her new location,
Fresno said she hopes to make
a difference in the Otay Ranch
community by providing high-
quality pediatric services in
a very compassionate and
friendly environment.
The new center is located
at 1741 Eastlake Pkwy., Ste.
107, in Chula Vista. Paradise
Family Health Center in Na-
Advertise
with us
GET RESULTS
The
(619) 477-0940
or check us out
online at
filipinopress.
com
13
September 18
Reunion of Filipinos who joined the U.S. Navy
The celebration will be held at the Filipino American Veteran’s Association lo-
cated at 2926 Market Street in San Diego on Saturday, Sept. 18, at 10:00 a.m.
Veterans widows are very much welcomed. Seats are limitied so please
RSVP as soon as possible. Videos of past reunions will be shown. Nita
Barrion’s band will perform.
For more information, contact Bert Andrade at (619) 470-8039.
SEPTEMBER 19
AUP Ambassadors to perform at N.C. church
The Adventist University of the Philippines’ Ambassadors choir will
perform at the First United Methodist Church of National City on
Sunday, Sept. 19.
The Ambassadors, returning to San Diego on their fifth U.S. Goodwill
Concert Tour, will perform twice that day. The choral group will first
perform during the church’s morning worship service at 10:00 a.m.
The Ambassadors’ Gala Concert begins at 2:00 p.m. There will be no
reserved seating for the concert.
Tickets for the concert will be sold in advance and at the door. Cost of
tickets are $20 (adults), $10 (children 5-12). Admission is free for children 4
and under and senior 62 and older.
Advance tickets can be purchased at FUMC’s administrative office Mon-
day to Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The church is located at 242
E. 8t St. in National City.
To purchase tickets or for more information, call (619) 477-2741 or e-mail
office@myfumcnc.org.
SEPTEMBER 19
PTE-HOPE, Inc. Candidate's Debate Forum
PTE-HOPE, Inc. (Pagasa-Tumainisha-Esperanza) Candidate's Debate Forum
for National City Council and National Mayoral Candidates will be held on
September 19, 2010, Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at Point Point Joint Restaurant in
916 E. 8th Street, Unit 1-2, National City, CA 91950. Lunch $7 and up.
National City Council candidates: Frank Lopez (confirmed), Mona
Alvarado-Rios (Rep.), Louie "Luis" Natividad (pending) and Ditas Yamane
(confirmed). National City Mayoral candidates confirmed: Mayor Ron
Morrison; Vice Mayor/City Councilmember Alejandra Sotelo-Solis; Darryl
Gorham. Mitch Beauchamp (declined).
For information contact Marissa Acierto, mbacierto@tmo.blackberry.net or
(619) 549-0014, ok to sms, text and mms.
SEPTEMBER 19
PTE-HOPE, Inc. Candidate's Debate Forum
The PTE-HOPE, Inc. (Pagasa-Tumainisha-Esperanza) Candidate's De-
bate Forum for National City Council and National Mayoral Candidates
on September 19, 2010, Sunday at 2:00 p.m. at Point Point Joint Res-
taurant in 916 E. 8th Street, Unit 1-2, National City, CA 91950. Lunch
$7 and up. National City Council candidates:
Frank Lopez (confirmed), Mona Alvarado-Rios (Rep.), Louie "Luis"
Natividad (confirmed) and Ditas Yamane (confirmed). National City
Mayoral candidates confirmed: Mayor Ron Morrison; Vice Mayor/City
Councilmember Alejandra Sotelo-Solis; Darryl Gorham. Mitch Beau-
champ (declined). For additional information contact Marissa Acierto,
mbacierto@tmo.blackberry.net or (619) 549-0014.
September 19-24
San Diego VA to host clinic for injured
combat veterans
VA San Diego Healthcare System will host its third National Veterans Sum-
mer Sports Clinic from Sept. 19-24 in San Diego.
Recently injured combat veterans from around the country will par-
ticipate in the clinic, which will include innovative adaptive sporting
events such as sailing, kayaking, surfing, cycling and track and field
events. The week-long program is designed to provide a supportive
environment for healing and rehabilitation, and to promote a healthy
lifestyle for veterans who are newly injured.
Opening and closing ceremonies will be held at Sea World and the San Di-
ego Marriott Hotel and Marina, along with some of the other clinic events.
Sporting events will be held at the U.S. Olympic Training Center in Chula
Vista; Kellogg Park in La Jolla Shores; and the Silver Strand State Park in
Coronado. Admission is free and the public is welcome. More information
is available at: www.summersportsclinic.va.gov.
SEPTEMBER 22
CANDIDATES FORUM 2010
Candidates Forum 2010 will take place on Wednesday, Sept. 22, from 5:30
to 7:30 p.m. at Mission Valley Public Library, 2123 Fenton Way in San Diego.
Come listen and ask questions of several local candidates, so that you will
be informed this coming election. Candidates attending so far are:
Board of Supervisors: Supervisor Ron Roberts and Stephen WhitburnSan
DiegoCity Council
District 6: Howard Wayne and Lorie Zapf
District 8: David Alvarez and Felipe Hueso
County Assessor, Recorder, Clerk: David Butler and Ernie Dronenburg
Chula VistaCity Council: Pat Aguilar and Larry Breitfelder
National City Mayor: Mayor Ron Morrison and Vice Mayor Alejandra Sotelo-Solis
National City Council: Luis Natividad, Mona Rios and Ditas Yamane
Please RSVP by Sept. 16. For more information, contact Vince Bumanglag,
vbumanglag@aol.com or (760) 224-4635; Mitz Lee, mitz@mitzlee.com or
(858) 689-9462; or Willie Racelis, willieracelis@cox.net.
September 26
21st Annual AIDS Walk San Diego
San Diego County’s largest one-day HIV/AIDS fundraiser will take place
on Sunday, Sept. 26 at Balboa Park. The 21st annual event will raise
funds for more than 20 San Diego County HIV/AIDS service organiza-
tions. AIDS Walk San Diego is a program of The San Diego LGBT Com-
munity Center. More information is available by calling (619) 291-WALK.
September 26
Changemaker Festival
The Changemaker Festival at El Prado Patios will take place Sun-
day, September 26 at Balboa Park from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m. The event
is organized by the Foundation for Change. It will feature music by
Super Sonic Samba School and a "Farmers' Market" style feast by
Coronado Catering. Individual tickets are $35 or $60 for a pair.
14 THE FILIPINO PRESS
adanza
Continued from p­­­­­age 1
“Whatever works,” Adanza
said. “I’m just going to keep do-
ing that until he falls down.”
Muay Thai, also known as
the art of eight limbs, is a com-
bination of boxing and kickbox-
ing in which fighters are al-
lowed to use their knees, shins,
hands and elbows.
The 31-year-old Adanza is
known as a dynamic kicker and
striker, always looking for a
knockout early on.
“I’m very aggressive. I move
forward,” he said. “My right
hand is my strongest weapon. I
always fall back on it.”
Adanza currently holds a 7-2
record with his pro-am score-
card showing 27 wins (13 by
way of knockout), three losses
and two draws.
His former titles include
World Boxing Council Muay-
Thai International Super Ban-
tamweight champion and WBC
MuayThai U.S. National Super
Bantamweight champion, which
he had to give up when he won
his international title.
Adanza lost his WBC title
in December 2009 to Japanese
fighter Kunitaka Fujiwara. He is
eager to challenge him later this
year and regain the title.
Even without the internation-
al title, Adanza still boasts an
impressive resume.
He is currently the No. 1
Muay Thai fighter in the super
bantamweight division in the
United States. He is also current-
ly ranked by WBC MuayThai as
No. 14 in the world in the super
bantamweight division.
The WBC MuayThai has 17
weight categories for fighters
around the world, with the
top 20 fighters ranked in each
category for a total of 340
ranked fighters.
There are only eight Ameri-
cans ranked among the 340 fight-
ers — Adanza is one of them.
Falling in love with boxing
came almost accidentally for
Adanza.
Adanza (7-2) delivers a body punch to his opponent. His pro-am scorecard shows 27 wins (13 by way of knockout), three losses and two draws.
“My friend wanted to check
out a boxing gym, so one day I
went with him,” he said. “The
guy was a good salesman. He
offered a two-for-one deal. We
both ended up joining. I became
addicted to it.”
He was 18 at the time, and af-
ter boxing for five years Adanza
stumbled across Muay Thai.
“I just got into it,” he said with
a laugh. “I was boxing and then
I just flipped over. I saw people
kicking and I wanted to kick too.”
Falling for the sport may have
been exactly the right release
for Adanza. He was kicked out of
high school and sent to an al-
ternative school. He later found
that Muay Thai was an outlet for
his anger, and has been practic-
ing the sport ever since.
MUAY THAI AT
PALA CASINO
What: Current International
Karate Kickboxing Council
MuayThai International Super
Bantamweight Champion Romie
Adanza defends his title against
Haigang Huang of China.
Where: 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2 at
Pala Casino.
Tickets: Tickets start at $40 and
$100 ringside. Tickets are available
at the Pala Casino Box office with
no service charge or online at
www.StarTickets.com. Charge by
phone at 1-877-446-7962. Fans
must be at least 21 years old.
The Orange County resident
said he is always working on
Muay Thai, whether he’s compet-
ing, practicing or training others.
Adanza has been a train-
er and coach at Team Oyama
MMA & Fitness in Irvine for
the last 10 years. He trains the
younger fighters on the team,
mentors others and searches
for new talent.
“I got lucky,” he smiled. “I get
a lot of time to train. I get to
spend time with my kids. They
love it at the gym.”
Adanza has a 3 ½-year-old son
and a 10-year-old daughter.
“My kids are my inspira-
tion,” Adanza said. “I’m doing it
for them. They’ve been to all my
fights. They love it.”
No matter how hard he tries,
Adanza said he just can’t seem to
stray away from the sport.
“I’ve tried other things,” he
Photo: Ray Kasprowicz
said. “But I always come back to
this. Things are good.”
Adanza, who is the first
American-born Filipino in his
family, admitted that being a
professional athlete isn’t all
that glamorous.
“The hardest part is getting
paid for it,” he said. “It’s a lot of
abuse for not much money. But
it’s still worth it. My body is al-
ready breaking down, but I’ve
got a few more years left in me.”
Adanza has also taken his
share of verbal jabs for his
appearance, but said he isn’t
too worried about what his
critics say.
“People may think I’m a
punk because I’m tatted up
and bald,” he said. “You either
like me or you dislike me. I try
September 18 - 24, 2010
to have a sense of humor, make
people laugh.”
Not very many people have
gotten to know Adanza since
Muay Thai hasn’t gone main-
stream yet.
“Muay Thai is a sport that
just hasn’t exploded in this part
of the world,” Adanza said. “It
would be great to see it grow.”
He said Muay Thai hasn’t hit
it big yet because it isn’t tele-
vised or promoted. The sport
also has to compete with top
contenders who box or take up
mixed martial arts.
The Houston native original-
ly wanted to compete in mixed
martial arts but there wasn’t
a weight class for him, so he
turned to Muay Thai. With less
than a dozen professional fights
under his belt, he’s having a hard
time looking for competition.
Fighting at 122 pounds, Ad-
anza said there aren’t too many
competitors in his weight class
nearby. Either he or his oppo-
nent has to travel, so he doesn’t
get to compete as often as he
would like.
Adanza is also at a disadvan-
tage because of his height. Many
contenders are quite a few inch-
es taller and have a longer reach.
Determined to get in more
fights, Adanza is looking to
change weight classes with
the hope that he’ll find more
competition.
“Next year, my goal is to get
down to 115 pounds,” he said.
“I want to get ready for those
Thai guys. I want to be able to
put up a good fight.”
Before making the transi-
tion to a different weight class,
Adanza is looking for a re-
match. Following his Oct. 2
fight he wants to challenge Fu-
jiwara and take back the WBC
MuayThai International Super
Bantamweight title.
After that, Adanza has a few
goals in mind. But he isn’t going
to let details worry him.
“I’m pretty laid back,” he
said. “I try not to stress about
the little stuff. Things always
fall into place.”
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 15

L01_Fishing_BW_F_13x21_outlined.indd 1 New Master SCG Legend 4/5/10 4:18 PM Page 1 7/30/10 5:40 AM
16 THE FILIPINO PRESS September 18 - 24, 2010

San Diego Symphony

2010-2011

Centennial Season
Join us for our

winter pops
San Diego Symphony presents

Bayanihan PhiliPPine
national Dance comPany
Sunday, September 26, 2010, 2pm
Copley Symphony Hall

“Enchanting, engaging, and graceful.”

- Newsweek

“Beautiful…one of the most popular of

all folk dance troupes.” - The New York Times

Internationally acclaimed Bayanihan Philippine National

Dance Company makes their debut at Symphony Hall. Enjoy
Bayanihan’s ancient Filipino traditions as they incorporate
incredible originality, visual beauty and exciting dance.
San Diego Symphony does not perform on this concert event.

Special Offer*
1/2 price TickeTS
Mention this offer for discount.
Phone only. Call 619.235.0804.
Hurry! Offer ends September 22.
*Offer is based on availability and is not valid for previously purchased tickets. Restrictions apply. Selected
sections only. ALL SALES ARE FINAL, NO EXCHANGES, NO REFUNDS.

Financial support is
Season
The Newspaper of the Filipino Asian Community
provided by the City of
&
{ SERVING THE ENTIRE CITY AND COUNTY OF SAN DIEGO }

Media Philippines Asian San Diego Commission

Sponsors: Partners: R E P O R T
for Arts and Culture.

Call 619.235.0804 or Visit sandiegosymphony.com

September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 17

GET LISTED: To have your concert, club or event listed in What's

Happening, e-mail your information (include date, time, location,
cost, and phone) to filpress@aol.com. Keep in mind we publish on
Saturdays, so ensure your event happens on the day of publication
or during the following week.
The Greatest Hitmakers perform Sept. 26 at Pala Casino.
IN CONCERT
NATIONAL CITY BAYFRONT
CONCERT 2010
The Fabulous Pelicans,
Street Heart
When: 2-6 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 18
Where: Pepper Park, National City
Tickets: Free.
Online: www.nationalcityca.gov.
Phone: (619) 336-4290.
THE GREATEST HITMAKERS
Rico J. Puno • Marco Sison
Rey Valera • Nonoy Zuniga
When: 3 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 26
Where: Pala Casino
Tickets: $38-$98.
Online: www.usasiamediacenter.
com.
Phone: 1-888-874-1719. Tickets
also available at Pala Casino.
ANG GANDA DIVA?
Lani Misalucha and Vice Ganda
When: 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 16
Where: Pala Casino
Tickets: $48-$98.
Online: www.starmediaentertain-
ment.com.
Phone: 1-818-549-1456.
Tickets also available at Pala
Casino.
THEATER
Jennifer Paz
MOONLIGHT AMPHITHEATRE
Jennifer Paz stars as Kim in
“Miss Saigon”
When: 7:30 p.m. nightly through
Sept. 25
Where: 1200 Vale Terrace Drive,
Vista
Tickets: $22-$45.
Online: www.moonlightstage.
com.
Phone: (760) 724-2110.
Also available at box office.
Julius Obregon
Big Band
Fridays: Ballroom dancing/
Karoke
Where: 3893 54th St., San Diego,
(619) 229-8228
MCDINI'S DINER & EVENTS
Filipino food every Saturday
with live Filipino Bands
Where: 105 E. 8th St., National
City, (619) 474-6771
TROPHY LOUNGE
Rising Star
When: 8 p.m. Thursdays
Where: 999 National City Blvd.,
National City, (619) 477-9862
KARAOKE
18TH ANNUAL FIEST FILIPIANA
MEXICANA
KARAOKE COMPETITION
When: Saturday, Oct. 23
Where: Seafood City, 1420 E.
Plaza Blvd., National City,
(619) 477-6080
EL JUAN RESTAURANT
Eric de Leon one-man band
When: 6-9 p.m. Thursdays
Where: 2316 Highland Ave.,
National City, (619) 477-6262
GAPORESTO & KARAOKE
When: 7 p.m.-midnight, Tuesdays
to Sundays
Where: 933 S. Harbison Ave.,
National City, (619) 267-3746
JASMINE
When: 9 p.m -1 a.m. Wednesdays
Where: 4609 Convoy St., San
Diego, (858) 268-0888
SIZZLER JULIUS OBREGON
SHOW ROOM
When: 7 p.m. Fridays
Where: 1325 E. Plaza Blvd.,
National City, (619) 477-2590
Bayanihan!
Acclaimed Philippine National Dance Company to make San Diego
debut at Copley Symphony Hall on first U.S. tour in five years
SAN DIEGO, Calif. — In-
ternationally acclaimed Baya-
nihan, the Philippine National
Dance Company, makes their de-
but at Copley Symphony Hall at
2 p.m. on Sunday, Sept 26.
Enjoy Bayanihan's ancient
Filipino traditions as they incor-
porate incredible originality, vi-
sual beauty and exciting dance
on their first North American
tour in five years.
Tickets for the performance
are $15-$65, with a half-price
special in effect until Sept. 22.
Call (619) 235-0804 for more
information.
A national treasure
Bayanihan takes its name
from an ancient Filipino tradi-
tion called bayanihan, which
means working together for a
common good. In 1956 Dr. Hele-
na Z. Benitez founded the Baya-
nihan Folk Dance Group of the
Philippine Women’s University.
The following year, it was for-
mally organized as the Bayani-
han Folk Arts Center with the
Bayanihan Philippine Dance
Company as its performing
arm. Both the center and the
dance company were tasked to
research on and preserve in-
digenous Philippine art forms
in music, dance, costumes and
folklore; to restructure and en-
hance these research findings to
evolve repertoires suited to the
demands of contemporary the-
ater; and to promote interna-
tional goodwill through perfor-
mances at home and abroad.
Barely a year old but em-
inently backed up by pains-
BAYANIHAN PHILIPPINE
NATIONAL DANCE
COMPANY
When: 2 p.m., Sunday, Sept. 26
Where: Copley Symphony Hall,
750 B St., San Diego. Sympho-
ny does not perform.
Tickets: $15-$65 (half-price
until Sept. 22).
Online: www.sandiegosym-
phony.com.
Phone: (619) 235-0804
WIN FREE TICKETS!
The Filipino
Press is giv-
ing away two
pairs of tickets
to the show.
Visit our Facebook page for
details. Deadline for entries
is Wednesday, Sept. 22.
taking research and innova-
tive choreography, Bayanihan
made its highly successful de-
but at the Brussels Universal
Exposition on May 27, 1958,
launching the company on an
international career represent-
ing the Philippines.
The popular TV host Ed Sul-
livan featured the company in
his coast-to-coast telecast of
the “Highlights of the Brussels
Fair” beamed to 40 million tele-
viewers in the United States.
Shortly after, Sol Hurok, “The
king of impresarios,” signed up
Bayanihan for the Sol Hurok
International Festival.
On Oct. 13, 1959, Bayani-
han opened on Broadway at
the Winter Garden Theater
and received the unanimous ac-
claim of New York City critics.
It was a major break through in
Philippine dance history. And
henceforth the world became a
stage for Bayanihan.
To Dr. Lucrecia Reyes Urtu-
la, National Artist for Dance,
largely belongs the credit for
transforming Bayanihan’s eth-
nic research materials into
dances of theatrical excitement
and artistry. As Walter Terry of
New York Herald Tribune ob-
served, “Indeed the choreogra-
phy is endlessly fascinating, for
while preserving authenticity of
step and regional color, Lucre-
cia Urtula has devised designs
of incredible originality, visual
beauty and excitement.”
Since its formal organization
the company has mounted 14
major world tours (of six months
to a year in duration) to Asia,
Australia, Africa, Europe, the
Middle East and the Americas
and more than 100 short tours to
foreign countries. In half a cen-
The Bayanihan
Philippine
National
Dance
Company will
perform at
Copley
Symphony Hall
in San Diego
at 2 p.m. on
Sunday,
Sept. 26.
Courtesy photos
tury Bayanihan has performed
in six continents, 64-four coun-
tries and 658 cities world wide.
A multi-award-winning com-
pany, both nationally and in-
ternationally, Bayanihan has
awakened a new pride among
Filipinos in their cultural her-
itage; added a new dimension
to the country’s dance tradition
and has built a rich reserve of
international goodwill.
In appreciation and recogni-
tion of their pioneering efforts
and international success, the
10th Congress enacted R. A.
8626 declaring the Bayanihan
Philippine Dance Company as
The Philippines National Folk
Dance Company. Subsequently,
the president of the Philippines
issued Proclamation No. 138 de-
claring May 27 of every year as
National Day to commemorate
and propagate the Bayanihan
spirit as the unique way of work-
ing together as a people.
For more information about
Bayanihan, visit their website
at www.bayanihannational-
danceco.ph.

COPLEY SYMPHONY HALL

SPORTS
Bayanihan Philippine National
TOP GUN FLAG FOOTBALL
Dance Company
Register now for five-man, all-
When: 2 p.m.Sunday, Sept. 26
passing flag football leagues in
Where: 750 B St., San Diego Chula Vista, Mira Mesa, North
Tickets: $15-$65. County/San Marcos and Santee.
Online: www.sandiegosymphony. Evening and weekend leagues
com. begin in late September. Inter-
Phone: (619) 235-0804. league playoffs with neighboring
Also available at box office. counties. Call toll-free (877) 846-
CLUBS 3178 or visit TopGunFlagFootball.
CAFE LA MAZE STEAKHOUSE com. Must be 18+ to play. Refer-
Julius Obregon and Friends ees needed.
Show
When: 7 p.m. Sundays
Where:
1441 High- Lani Misalucha and Vice Ganda
land Ave., star in "ang Ganda Diva?" at
National Pala Casino on Oct. 16
City, (619)
474-3222
LUCKY
STAR
Wednes-
days Fili-
pino Night
with Eric
de Leon
Thursdays:
Moonlight
Serenade
Orchestra
18 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Documentary chronicles street artists’ rise to fame
By Fe Seligman
Filipino Press Contributing Writer
B
anksy, Fairey, Space In-
vader. Who are they? No,
they are not characters
from “X-Men” or other superhe-
ro movies. Nor are they names
of the most recent video games
in town. They are artists.
To be more specific, those
are names and pseudonyms of
street-art icons who used public
walls as their canvasses and the
streets as their galleries. They
are social activists who brought
street art to prominence, creat-
ing another genre of art that is
populist in its purest form.
What was once considered
“vandalism” is now credited by
many as a valid art form. The
artworks are now sold at auc-
tions, fetching as much $30,000
or more — some even reach up
to $500,000. These artists —
and many others who remain
unknown — defied public laws
and regulations to create a new
art form that has gained notori-
ety and respect despite its “ille-
gal” beginnings.
I first learned about these
artists and the underground
street-art movement through a
movie my family and I watched
early this summer. We took a
low-cost adventure to Encinitas
to watch a hilarious documen-
tary on street art at the historic
La Paloma Theatre. I found both
the movie and the theater a re-
markable experience.
La Paloma is unlike any oth-
er theater I’ve been to. Built
in 1928, it is one of San Diego
County’s oldest movie houses.
Well-known for its elegance and
grandeur, La Paloma was once
a hub for cinema lovers and the
epicenter of the city’s social ac-
tivities.
My husband shared with me
that he loved going to this the-
RE V I E W
Photo: Mongrel Media
ater with his brother during his
college years in the 1970s, when
the theater featured couch-style
seating and organic food juice
was offered in place popcorn and
soda.
Unfortunately, the theater
has gone downhill since the
1980s. When my family and I
visited, we didn’t find the couch-
es or the organic food he men-
tioned. What we experienced
was an antiquated building with
seats that had been worn out
over time. They were pretty un-
comfortable, too.
Besides being a historic land-
mark, La Paloma is also known
for the type of “art house” mov-
ies it screens. It’s the sort of
theater that still screens “The
Rocky Horror Picture Show” ev-
ery Friday at midnight, and of-
fers an eclectic array of off-beat
films. La Paloma is where we
discovered the documentary on
street art and where I learned
about street artists Banksy,
Fairey and MBW. If you’re like
me — someone who takes classi-
cal art seriously and greatly ab-
hors any defamation on the orig-
inal work — you will be highly
entertained by this film.
“Exit Through the Gift Shop”
is a funny documentary known
as the greatest graffiti film ever
made. The movie, which de-
buted at the Sundance Film
Festival this year, begins as a
chronicle of guerrilla street art-
ist Banksy, according to The Los
Angeles Times, then turns into
a meditation on the value of art
and slippery nature of truth as
Banksy turns the camera on his
chronicler, the colorful French-
American Thierry Guetta.
Guetta, a salesman-turned-
street artist, was very fond of
one thing: making videos. As he
became more passionate about
this activity, he stumbled into
the world of underground street
artists who worked at the night
wearing hoods and masks as
they painted and created art-
work illegally on city walls.
Thierry learned about this
movement from his cousin, who
called himself “Space Invader.”
Thierry followed him faithfully
wherever he went, documenting
his work through video. Space
Invader accurately describes his
style: He’s an invader of any-
body’s space while making his
presence known through his art-
work, highly geometric in form,
resembling “Lego” pieces. (You
may even find his work in down-
town San Diego.)
Meanwhile, as Thierry be-
comes heavily involved with
street art, he meets Shepard
Fairey, the now infamous street
artist who created the iconic
Obama “Hope” poster.
Through Fairey, Thierry en-
counters the elusive, fearless
and highly regarded street artist
Banksy. Banksy’s style is like no
other. He tests and goes beyond
the boundaries of what we call
art. He defames and transforms
classical art pieces into comi-
September 18 - 24, 2010
whose creations were primarily
“scribbles,” would generate hun-
dreds and thousands of dollars
almost overnight. Thanks to his
marketing genius, thousands of
people in Los Angeles literally
waited for the gallery doors to
open and could not wait to pur-
chase the highly priced artwork
on display. MBW/Thierry be-
came so famous and successful
that even Madonna had asked
him to create the cover for 2009
album, “Celebration.” His sec-
ond show, “ICONS,” opened in
New York in February.
The movie ends with sober
and painful remarks from the
three artists who took their
work seriously, elevating popu-
list art into its highest form. It
took years before they became
fully established and their work
gained world-wide acceptance.
Why would the world accept the
work of an amateur artist who
scribbled over other people’s
creations and consider those as
works of art? Did Thierry or
MBW commit any crime? Was
his work ethical? Did he cheat
the public? Did Thierry play the
art game fairly?
Photo: Roadsidepictures The answers to these ques-
The historic La Paloma Theatre in Encinatas was built in 1928. It is one of tions are for you decide. As for
San Diego County's oldest movie houses. myself, I found it too hilarious
that these so-called “art crit-
cal work, transforming, for in- lidity. Everything was a hode- ics,” who considered themselves
stance, the famous “Mona Lisa” podge, a comical combination of experts in separating good art
painting into a man. His work is what was within his reach. He from bad, were lured into believ-
focused on questioning national hired trained artists and profes- ing that MBW was an artistic
and global social issues. sionals to market for him and to genius. Banksy gave me a good
More than anything else, help him conceptualize his ran- laugh when he blurted in a sepa-
these artists have one thing in dom thoughts to become pal- rate commentary, “I can’t believe
common: Their work is for pub- atable to art critics. With the that people are buying this piece
lic display, with no regard for positive endorsement from his of s***’?!”
monetary compensation. famous street artist friends, he Let’s exit through the gift
Thierry, who had no back- opened a gallery to showcase his shop. (feseligman9@yahoo.com)
ground on any form of art, work. La Paloma Theatre is locat-
joined the street-art movement No one believed the gallery ed at 471 S. Coast Hwy. 101 in
with the pseudonym Mr. Brain- would be a success, of course. Encinitas. Phone (760) 436-5774
wash (MBW). He copied Banky’s Banksy, Fairey and Space In- for more information or vis-
work, defaming classical work vader could not believe that the it their website at http://www.
with no intent, planning or va- work of this untrained artist, lapalomatheatre.com.
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 September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 19

Sarah Geronimo remains

a Kapamilya star
MANILA, Philippines
— Pop Star Princess Sar-
ah Geronimo on recently re-
newed her contract with ABS-
CBN for another year, ending
speculations that she might
transfer to rival network TV5
after her newest series “Idol.”’
In an interview after sign-
ing the contract, Geronimo
said there’s no need to trans-
fer to other network since she’s
happy being a Kapamilya star.
"Dito ay at home na at
home po ako at napakalaki po
ng naitulong sa career ko ng
ABS-CBN. Sila po ang tumu-
long na makilala ako ng mga
tao as Sarah Geronimo, sa
ASAP, aktres sa mga teleser-
ye, at even sa pelikula sa Star
Cinema. Napaka-happy ko po
at walang dahilan para uma-
lis," Geronimo said.
Geronimo added that ABS-
CBN has lined up a lot of projects
for her including musical series
“Idol,” which premiered recently.
"Bonggang bongga at ma-
jor major ang pasasalamat
namin sa mga Kapamilya na-
tin na sumubaybay ng pre-
miere noong Monday. Ito very
excited na po kami kasi tala-
gang dito na mare-reveal ang
puso ng istorya ng buhay ni
Billy o ni Jean at lumabas na
din si Coco Martin as Lando,"
Geronimo said.
Geronimo admitted that she
got worried after hearing the
news of her purported transfer,
prompting her to ask her tal-
ent manager about the issue.
"Oo may mga nagsabi sa
akin at narinig ko sa ibang tao
pa. Nag-worry, opo. I asked my
manager at sinabi niyang hindi
po totoo talaga," Geronimo said
Also present during the con-
tract signing were ABS-CBN
Channel head Cory Vidanes,
Entertainment head Linggit
Tan, Business Unit head Deo
Endrinal, Business Unit head
Joyce Liquicia and Geronimo's
mother, Divine. (MNS)

FELD ENTERTAINMENT
05
o, CA Ad Size: 3.75” X 10”
Section: ENTERTAINMENT
©Disney

The Magic Begins

At $12 for Opening Night!*

OCT. 6 – 10
Wed. Thu. Fri. Sat. Sun.
OCT. 6 OCT. 7 OCT. 8 OCT. 9 OCT. 10
11:00 AM 11:00 AM
3:30 PM 1:30 PM
7:30 PM* 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 7:30 PM 5:30 PM
*(Excludes Front Row and VIP seats. No double discounts.)

Buy tickets at Ticketmaster.com,

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Regular Ticket Prices:
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Limited number of Front Row and VIP seats available.
Call or go online for details.
(Service charges, facility and handling fees may apply.)

www.disneyonice.com
20 THE FILIPINO PRESS
Francine Maigue
The Pampered
Pinay
Tips for staying
in shape this fall
W
hen we’re faced
with the hustle and
weather of fall, stay-
ing motivated to keep fit can be
an even bigger challenge than
usual! Have no fear, my pam-
pered friends! Here are some
tips to fit in a fitness regimen
you can commit to with ease.
Take a cue from the kids
If you've got children, you
know that fall means the re-
turn of countless after-school
activities. Sometimes their
schedules, responsibilities and
endurance levels out-do our
own. It’s no wonder they’re so
fit! It's time to let them be our
role models. There are plen-
ty of options to get fit instead
of flipping through outdated
magazines in a lobby or Face-
book-ing in the car. While your
daughter is in ballet class,
take a dance class of your own.
Do some laps around the track
while your son is at football
practice. Watch your stam-
ina and energy level pick up
quickly. This is also a great
way to blow off some steam af-
ter a hard day’s work. Kids are
always encouraged to make
friends when they take on
a new activity. Why not take
that same advice? Invite oth-
er waiting parents to join in a
fun fitness regimen with you.
Try Our Famous
Crispy Pata, Sisig, Pancit, Seafood,
BBQ, Pasta and More
Karaoke Filipino breakfast –
served all day
Tuesdays thru Sundays:
7pm - 12pm
(Free delivery orders of $400 or more)
Closed on Mondays
GAPORESTO & KARAOKE
Serving Filipino and International Cuisine
933 S. Harbison Ave., National City, CA 91950
(619) 267-3746
Fit and social? Your children
will be as proud of you as you
are of them!
Tip: Squeezing in workouts
can be a difficult balancing act,
but with some simple plan-
ning and time management,
you'll see that it’s not impos-
sible. Begin by using two of
the five weekdays to work out
while waiting for the kids. Use
another day to get your things
in order (pick up the groceries
and run other errands). Use
one day to cheer on your child.
(They need to know their big-
gest fan is around!) Use your
remaining day to pamper
yourself and reward your child
for a productive week.
Make a date with your TV
Whether you're a “Dancing
with the Stars” fan, “Glee” geek
or loyal “Grey’s Anatomy” fol-
lower (I am all of the above),
fall is time when nights on our
couches in pajamas becomes
our idea of a “hot date.” (Who
can blame us? Maks, Puck and
McSteamy are HOT!) But let's
stay focused here. Our favor-
ite shows are also accompa-
nied by commercial time, which
will soon come to be known as
our workout time. Just imag-
ine the amount of calories you
can burn in the one hour that
you’ve already committed to be-
Party trays to go
ing nowhere else but your living
room. Simple exercises you can
do during commercial breaks
include squats, lifting weights,
jump roping, crunches — let’s
be honest, anything is better
than nothing. You may even
find yourself distracted and in-
spired by the on-screen hotties
that you can walk a treadmill
while you watch for an hour.
Tip: Exercise is great, but
don’t cancel out the benefits of
your hard work with calorie-
and sugar-laden snacks. For
something savory and crunchy,
go for fresh veggies with hum-
mus or popcorn seasoned with a
few dashes of your favorite spic-
es instead of butter. For some-
thing sweet, try dark choc-
olate and berries or a banana
split with frozen yogurt, nuts
(or oats) and honey instead of
sprinkles and syrup.
Finish out the year with bang!
Like a bear that’s preparing
to hibernate, you may feel the
urge to start indulging in heavi-
er comfort foods as the temper-
ature starts to drop. You may
think to yourself, "Bikini sea-
son is out. Layered looks are in
fashion now. A few more calo-
ries here and there won't hurt."
But holiday season is on its
way! (There are less than 100
days until Christmas!) This
means family photos and social
gatherings galore.
Before ditching your figure-
friendly summer diet, consid-
er what kind of statement you
want to make in the family pho-
tos you plan on sending out
with all your Christmas cards.
Think about what kind of cock-
tail dress you want to make a
smashing entrance in at your-
boyfriend or husband’s compa-
ny party. Don’t you want to hear
from everyone (including those
hard to please aunties), “Wow!
Napaka-slim ka!” at your next
family gathering?
Most importantly, remem-
ber that you're doing this for
you! Staying on track will pay
off when you ring in the New
Year without having to make
Best Buffet in Town
Summer Promotions:
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a resolution to exercise more
and eat better. You’ll already
be fashionably fit and able
to look at the past year with
no regrets! (P.S. Some pump-
kin pie and eggnog later in
the year are worth saving up
some calories for.)
Tip: Select the outfits
you want to wear for fam-
ily photos and holiday par-
ties. Hang the outfit on your
bedroom door, print out a
picture of the outfits and dis-
play them on your refriger-
ator, or save images of the
outfits on your phone. The
next time you feel tempted to
stray from healthier dining
options or skip a workout,
simply take a glance at your
“incentive” outfits. Little re-
minders can’t hurt, right?
Wanna keep in touch and
join in on fun weekly chats
with other Pampered Pinay
fans? Simply check out www.
Facebook.com or www.Twit-
ter.com, and search "Fran-
cine Maigue." See you online!
Check back every week for
ways to pamper yourself and
those you love. Why? The an-
swer if simple: You deserve it!
Got a business or event I
should know about? Wish to
agree or disagree with me?
Want to send me a love note? (I
love those.) E-mail me at the-
pamperedpinay@yahoo.com
The
Check us out
online at:
filipinopress.com
542 Broadway • Chula Vista, CA 91910 • Tel: (619) 427-8472
All You Can Eat & Drink
Sushi Bar, Snow Crabs, Garlic Crab, Oysters, Mussels, Crawfish,
Salmon Fish, Cocktail Shrimp, B-B-Q Pork Rib, Korean Beef Rib,
Pork Chop, Roast Beef, Fry Chicken, Fried Rice, Soup, Salad Bar,
Fruits, Ice Cream, Bakery… more.
Laurice Guillen
praises Bea
MANILA, Philippines — Di-
rector Laurice Guillen is happy
and proud of Bea Alonzo's per-
formance in the latest Star Cin-
ema offering, "Sa 'Yo Lamang".
Direk Laurice said Bea is
very professional when it comes
to work and she studies her line
and the character very well.
“Siya na mismo yung mag-
sasabi na 'ganito yung gagawin
ko' and that's the kind of actor I
want to work with,” she added.
Direk Laurice is known for
her critically acclaimed mov-
ie "Tanging Yaman", which was
also under Star Cinema.
She shared it is so easy to
work with Bea because the ac-
tress is very focus and has pas-
Ina happy being a
full-time mom
MANILA, Philippines — Sexy
actress Ina Raymundo is proud
that she maintains her shape de-
spite having a family of her own.
Ina said she really does not
want to do any cosmetic surgery.
“Less is more for me, kasi
when I look at my mom and she's
55 and she never went to a der-
ma but she still looks good naka-
katuwa diba?" she said.
She pointed out that she had
not seen any dermatologist and
never had any skin treatment.
When asked on how she
stayed beautiful even though she
is a full time mother of four, Ina
disclosed that cleanse and mois-
turize can do a lot for the skin.
“I take care of myself and good
genes din siguro kasi mana din
ako sa mom and dad ko na they
still look good kahit medyo may
edad na,” she said.
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sion for her craft.
“I'm so happy with what Bea
has done. Madali lang nyang
maintindihan yung proseso at
ma-identify yung nuances nung
emotions na kailangan.”
During the press conference
of the movie, Bea also shared
that she's overwhelmed by
not just working with Lorna
Tolentino and Christopher de
Leon but also with Director
Laurice Guillen.
Bea believes that this is one of
the best movies she has done in
her almost 10 years in the enter-
tainment industry.
"Sa 'Yo Lamang" is still be-
ing shown in more than 120 the-
aters nationwide. (MNS)
But she's not closing her doors
to seek the help of the known aes-
thetic centers in town.
She jokingly said that if she
feels the need to do a drastic
change in her aging face, she will
do something that will let her
look 20 years younger.
Aside from her acting stint,
Ina is very proud with her hus-
band Bryan, who is a Canadian
businessman.
"Alam mo yung sobrang hap-
py everyday tapos kaming mag
asawa kahit buong araw lang na
magkausap eh tatawa lang kami
ng tatawa," she said. ìMore than
anything, I'm a mom talaga.”
“Ang buhay ko nagre-revolve
lang sya around the baby, the kids
and my husband. Yun talaga ang
buhay ko and I don't complain with
that kasi yun talaga ang pangarap
at gusto ko,” she added. (MNS)
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September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 21

Enchong, Erich try out romantic comedy

MANILA, Philippines —
Young stars Erich Gonzales and
Enchong Dee try new roles in
their first mainstream film "I
Do" under Star Cinema.
Known for their serious roles
in ABS-CBN's shows "Katorse"
and "Tanging Yaman," Gonzales
and Dee will now be facing an-
other challenge as actors by do-
ing a romantic-comedy film.
In an interview during the
pictorial for the movie, the on-
screen partners shared more
about the film's story and their
characters.
"Well 'yong story po is about a
young couple na hindi matuloy-
tuloy ang kasal. Nakakatawa
actually ang movie at I'm sure
ang daming makaka-relate kasi
dito si Yumi [ang character ko],
palagi siyang naghahanap ng si-
nasabi niyang 'the one,'" Gonza-
les said.
For Dee, he said that it's their
time to try something new, to try
lighter characters.
"It's time to laugh. It's time to
realize the lighter things in life,"
the actor said.
Gonzales said it won't be easy
doing the film especially since
they need to have the right tim-
ing in saying their lines. The
young actress said they are still
in the process of learning their
roles.
"This is comedy din kasi, so
siyempre nandoon ang timing at
pagbitaw mo ng linya so kailan-
gan talagang aralin," she said.
The on-screen couple said
their first movie together is a
big blessing and that they are
grateful to their fans for their
support.
"Dream come true po para sa
amin. Sobrang thankful po kasi
binigyan kami ng chance ng
Star Cinema," Gonzales said.
"Sa lahat po ng supporters
namin, finally ito na po 'yon. Ki-
ta-kita tayo sa sinehan soon,"
Dee added. (MNS)

Joey de Leon: The most

visible face on TV
MANILA, Philippines —
Joey de Leon will now be
seen day and night on TV.
Noontime, he’s in the dai-
ly "Eat Bulaga" on GMA-7.
Now, he’s also seen on TV5’s
p r a n k a n d c o m e d y s h o w,
"Wow Meganon?," Monday to
Friday, 9:00 to 9:30 p.m. On
Saturday, he’s also seen in
GMA’s "Startalk." Sundays,
h’íll now be at 12 noon in an-
other new TV5 show, "House
Or Not," that will be the pre-
program show of "P05" and
in the evening, he’s in GMA’s
" M e l & J o e y, " m a k i n g h i m
the most visible face on lo-
cal TV seen every single day,
whether day or night.
In "Wow Meganon?" he’ll
have a new co-host, Mr. Fu,
and they’ll be supported by
v e n t r i l o q u i s t Wa n l u w i t h
puppet Nicolo, magician Jeff
Tam and the SOS mimes of
"Lokomoko U." In "House or
Not," he gives away various
home showcases and house
and lot to lucky contestants
in a game show reminiscent
of those daffy Japanese game
shows. We’ve seen the pi -
lot episode with Ian de Leon,
Matet de Leon and her hus-
band, plus their other rel-
atives. They play various
wacky games with resident
Ogagsters and Hentai Girls
of the show and the result is
a rollicking hour of hilarious
entertainment, with Ruffa
Mi as Joey’s assistant called
Mayor Donna.
Is it true Joey didn’t show
up once in "Startalk" after he
heard GMA would get Willie
Revillame?
"That’s not true," he said.
"Nasira ang tiyan ko noon.
Si Lolit ang may sabing da-
hil kay Willie, sinakyan ko
na lang. Kung yun ang deci-
sion ng network, wala naman
akong magagawa. At saka
hindi naman ako yung nagpa-
paalis ng tao. Siya yun."
What if TV5 would ask him
and Willie to be co-hosts?
"Okay lang, basta gus-
to ng network. Nagkatra-
b a h o n a r i n k a m i n i Wi l l i e
noon sa movies. Pero mala-
bong mangyari yan ngayon
kasi ang dami kong ginaga-
wa. At saka hindi pa naman
siya bumabalik, di ba? Bum-
alik muna siya. Basta ang
format Night and Day. Ako
yung sa Day, siya yung ka-
sabay ni German Moreno. O,
joke lang yan, ha. At saka
hindi naman akong kaaway
niya kundi si Jobert Su-
caldito. Sila ni Jobert ang
tanungin nyo kung willing
sila magtrabaho sa isaít isa.
Tama na yang Joey-Willie.
Luma na yan. Ang mas ex-
citing ngayon, yung Angel-
ica-Claudine." (MNS)
22 THE FILIPINO PRESS
visit
Continued from p­­­­­age 1
York. Aquino, who serves as
country coordinator for ASEAN-
U.S. dialogue relations, will also
have the opportunity to meet his
ASEAN counterparts.
But the highlight of Aqui-
no’s visit will be his address to
the 65th United Nations Gen-
eral Assembly on Friday, Sept.
24, a gathering of more than 150
heads of state in New York. The
president will also meet UN Sec-
retary-General Ban Ki-moon.
“The theme of 65th UNGA,
‘Reaffirming the Central Role
of the United Nations in Glob-
al Governance,’ is fully aligned
with President Aquino’s plat-
form of institutionalizing good
governance and combating pov-
erty,” the Philippines Depart-
ment of Foreign Affairs said.
In addition, the $434-million
Millennium Challenge Compact
agreement between the Philip-
pine government and the U.S.
Millennium Challenge Corp.
is also expected to be signed in
New York, the DFA said.
According to the agency, the
government will use this fund-
ing for programs on poverty re-
foundation
Continued from p­­­­­age 1
opment projects in the Philip-
pines.
The forum also heralds the
transformation of Ayala Foun-
dation USA into the Philippine
Development Foundation USA
(PhilDevUSA) which is a more
“mature, independent institu-
tion that will better reflect the
richness of the Filipino dias-
pora community in its adopted
land,” its officials said in a re-
cent briefing.
Filipino-Americans are the
second largest Asian-American
group with a population esti-
mated at 4 million, or 1.5 per-
cent of the U.S. population.
For the past 10 years, with
the support of thousands of Fil-
“The theme of the 65th UNGA,
‘Reaffirming the Central Role of the United
Nations in Global Governance,’ is fully aligned
with President Aquino’s platform of
institutionalizing good
governance and combating poverty.”
duction, revenue generation and
infrastructure development.
Aquino is also set to meet with
key executives of several ma-
jor U.S. corporations and with
members of the Filipino-Ameri-
can community in New York and
San Francisco, according to a re-
port on the ABS-CBN News web-
site.
Before traveling to San Fran-
cisco on Saturday, Sept. 25, Aqui-
no is also scheduled to visit the
College of Mount Saint Vincent
in New York where his mother,
former President Corazon Aqui-
no, studied and where he will de-
liver a speech at the Council of
Foreign Relations, ABS-CBN re-
port said.
The college will confer on
Aquino the college’s highest hon-
ipinos, “friends of the Philip-
pines,” corporations and foun-
dations, Ayala Foundation
USA has been able to mobilize
a total of $8.3 million, support-
ing about 140 nonprofit organi-
zations in the Philippines.
The group has touched the
lives of millions of underprivi-
leged Filipinos — children, the
youth, elderly, homeless, illit-
erate, sick, abused and forgot-
ten.
The Philippine Develop-
ment Forum will address the
needs and potential of the Phil-
ippines’ scientific and techno-
logical resources, specifically
opportunities in science and
engineering education, as well
as in technology-based indus-
tries, such as semiconductors,
or, the Saint Elizabeth Ann Se-
ton Medal.
Aquino will also meet with
members of the Filipino-Ameri-
can community in New York and
in San Francisco to “enlist their
active involvement in realizing
the Aquino government’s nation-
al agenda for the Filipino peo-
ple,” a Manila Bulletin story re-
ported.
The article noted that there
are today an estimated 2.84 mil-
lion Filipinos in the U.S., accord-
ing to the Commission on Filipi-
nos Overseas, accounting for 34
percent of total overseas Filipi-
nos and for 42 percent of remit-
tances to the Philippines.
An integral part of President
Aquino’s itinerary, the Bulletin
story said, will be business meet-
“We envision all three sectors — the academe,
government and the private sector — working
together on this technology initiative to build
economic strength and to ultimately alleviate
povery in our homeland."
and the fields of computing
and telecommunications.
The foundation is inviting
successful professionals in the
academics, government, in-
dustry, venture capital and
business to serve as resource
speakers and lead an active
discussion to help formulate
strategic policies and programs
ings with the CEOs and key ex-
ecutives of major American cor-
porations in both New York and
San Francisco, including cor-
porate leaders of Coach, Luen
Thai, IBM, JP Morgan, Suther-
land, Automatic Data Processing
and Hewlett-Packard.
“In San Francisco, he will
have a roundtable discussion
with Filipinos who have gained
success in the U.S. in the fields
of science, technology, and en-
gineering and request them to
come home and help build the
country,” the DFA said.
Aquino's visit will culminate
in a gala dinner at the Philip-
pine Development Forum fund-
raiser in San Jose, where he is
expected to deliver a keynote
speech.
He will fly back to Manila on
the same night.
More trips ahead
Back in the Philippines, the
president will begin preparing
for October trips to Vietnam,
which is hosting the ASEAN
summit, and Belgium, where the
Asia-Europe meeting will take
place on Oct. 4-5.
“We asked if we can do what
has to be done in Vietnam in
one trip rather than two trips,”
for immediate and long-term
results.
“We bring together all at
one time, in one place, repre-
sentatives from academe be-
cause training and education
are critical for achieving global
competitiveness,” Ayala Foun-
dation USA Chair Diosdado
Banato said.
President Aquino and outgoing Philippine National Police Director General
Jesus A. Verzosa salute the line to signal the start of the PNP change-of-com-
mand ceremony at Camp Crame in Quezon City on Tuesday, Sept. 14.
Aquino was quoted in the Philip-
pine Star, referring to combining
state visits to Vietnam and Indo-
nesia.
“I did promise that I would
limit the trips to those that are
absolutely necessary. As you see,
Vietnam is the host for ASEAN
this year and we should visit
Vietnam (in October), in keeping
with our promise to be more ju-
dicious in the way we spend the
people’s money, especially the
fact that we have very little left.
I felt it was prudent to have one
He added that the group
would also invite representa-
tives from government because
national policies and budget al-
locations are needed to support
science and technology pro-
grams. Business leaders are
also crucial to the group’s ef-
forts since they will coordinate
closely with government in im-
plementing these programs.
“We envision all three sec-
tors — the academe, govern-
ment and the private sector
— working together on this
technology initiative to build
economic strength and to ulti-
mately alleviate poverty in our
homeland,” Banato said.
President Aquino has been
invited as keynote speaker for
the event. He will be joined by
September 18 - 24, 2010
Photo: Ryan Lim/Malacanang Photo Bureau
trip rather than two,” he said in
the story.
Similiar to his plans to meet
as many world leaders in one
place during the ASEAN sum-
mit, Aquino is using the Europe-
an trip to accomplish the same
goal.
“You have all the heads of
state of the European Union
present in one meeting. Instead
of going to each one of them, you
can talk to all of them at the
same time,” Aquino said in the
Manila Bulletin.
other speakers who will ex-
change ideas to improve the
country’s condition. Speakers
include University of the Phil-
ippine economics professor Dr.
Felipe Medalla, UP College
of Engineering dean Rowena
Guevara, Integrated Micro-
electronics Inc. President and
CEO Arthur Tan, venture cap-
italist Winston Damarillo of
G2IX, Internet entrepreneur
Sheila Lirio Marcelo of Care.
com, and Fernando Zobel de
Ayala of Ayala Corp.
The forum will be followed
by a gala event to honor out-
standing achievers in the fields
of science and technology and
science education, and to cel-
ebrate Filipino-American tal-
ent. (Inquirer.net)
September 18 - 24, 2010 THE FILIPINO PRESS 23
24 THE FILIPINO PRESS September 18 - 24, 2010