A mad dash to the fi nish A mad dash to the finish
Transcription
A mad dash to the fi nish A mad dash to the finish
Ramon ‘Mon’ Datol Online Marketing Consultant 647-588-7844/ 905-780-0114 Email: [email protected] MINI GROCERY / FOOD TAKE-OUT / DINE IN / ATBPA WANT to secure the Medical and Dental needs of your Loved ones in the Philippines for only $20 a month? CALL Me Now! & I’ll show you how while you also earn at the same time! Toronto, Ontario For Catering Call: ANN OR GILBERT Tel: 905.882.1885/905.889.1886 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 www.philippinecourier.com Obama vs. Romney: Vol. 9 No. 3 Must undergo heart surgery to live... A mad dash to the finish Crisha needs help ...12-year-old Bicolana has congenital heart disease Barack Obama and Mitt Romney Credit: Ron Sachs-Pool/Getty; Justin Sullivan/Getty Story on page 11 Ombudsman Clears GMA Rep. Arroyo still facing other plunder case. Please see page 9 LET’S HELP THIS ANGEL: Even a dollar is a big help to Crisha. Story on page 31 Hallelujah to the New Pinoy Cardinal! Pope Benedict XVI has added Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle and five other prelates to the ranks of Cardinals who will elect his successor. Story on page 31 SERVICES: * Mortgage Insurance * Educational Plan & 20% Gov't Grant * Critical Illness Insurance * Life Isurance Arnel Jimenez Lopez Cell: (416) 568-2110 759 Warden Avenue, Scarborough Ontario, M1L 4B5 Philippine Courier 2 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Apartment For Rent - One-bedroom Basement apartment - With Living Room, Kitchen, & Washroom - Shared Laundry; Separate Entrance - Dufferin & Rogers Sts., In front of Bus Stop - $625/monthly; Perfect for Only One Person - Interested parties, pls. Call: 1015 B Joe @416-916-6468 or CP: 416-454-0118 @@@ Professional Service @@@ I Treat: - ‘Pawis Palad’, Migraine, - Hindi Maigalaw na Parte ng Katawan, And All Kinds of Muscle Pains: - Neck, Shoulder, Back, Hand & Leg Guaranteed!!! For more info, please call: ‘Jim Torres’ Master of Pressure Points 647-765-5885 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Real Estate, Wills, Powers of Attorney, Divorce, Small Claims 3 Philippine Courier 4 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 5 Philippine Courier Publisher/Editor-in- Chief Ramon "Mon" Datol Managing Editor Bob Valdes Associate Editors Ross D. Tierra, Melodie Claudio, The Philippine Courier 419 Alper St., Richmond Hill, Ontario L4C 2Z5 Tel No: 905-780-0114; Cell No. 647-588-7844; Fax No: 905-918-0526 E-mail: [email protected]; [email protected] ; [email protected] For Advertisement: Tel. No. 905-780-0114; 647-588-7844 (Mon) For Subscription: Tel No. 905-780-0114; Cell # 647-588-7844 (Mon) Miguel Caducio, Maria Isabelle D. Bello "The Only Filipino Community Newspaper that Serves York Region And GTA" Copyright of letters and other materials submitted and accepted for publication remains with the author, but the Publisher may freely reproduce them in any other forms. Opinions and views expressed are of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Philippine Courier. E-mail [email protected] Website Administrator Special Project Manager Comptroller Account Executive Lawrence Tierra Cynthia Caducio Frances Moscare Datol Cecille Araneta Contributing columnists and writers: Miss Rubi Talavera, Leto Tigley, Maria Isabelle Datol, Amado D. Gamboa, Ninez Cacho Olivarez, Ducky Paredes, Ellen Tordesillas, Bill Velasco, Freddie Claudio, Jose "Bong" Abellon, Tessie Lagtapon, Don Collantes, John Agustin, John Bello, Tony Sicat, Romy Zetazate, Al Mendoza, Alex Vidal, Ores Ting and Jojo Taduran. EDITORIAL Of political DNAs Here is yet another flawed provision in the 1987 Constitution: the proviso on the political dynasty issue, which states that a law would be needed to implement this. Bridges too far The bridges of corruption appear to have extended to the straight path of Noynoy and it seems that some of his officials are exerting efforts to head off a big controversy. The P111-billion Presidential Bridges Program apparently did not stop in the previous administration after the National Economic and Development Authority (Neda) just last September approved a P10-billion project now involving the repair of bridges. perhaps be said that he and his administration are also into the same scam. Singson in his letter to Noynoy called the three foreign suppliers involved in the bridges project, Cleveland Bridges UK Ltd. (UK) which is the former Balfour Beatty, Waagner-Biro Stahlbau AG (Austria) and Centurion SA (Spain); as being delinquent, meaning that these companies have not delivered what they have as a contract with the government. The scam reportedly started in the administration of Fidel Ramos, virtually skipped the shortened administration of Joseph Estrada and had its glory days during the nine-year Arroyo administration. And the project approval was apparently for the project escalation costs or overruns that was the result of the delayed implementation of the project. The Neda questioned the escalations in the cost of the project that started in 2002 from P2.4 billion to P10 billion since it was apparently contracted during the past administration but approved the project anyway. If that was the case, these companies are being reimbursed for their own shortcomings with the government, which would be the dirtiest of scams since public money is being thrown to compensate inefficient contractors, paying them for the increased costs in the project, the delay for which they are the cause. The Neda position was a throwback to Gloria’s discredited Neda director Romulo Neri who told the former President that he was offered a bribe and was told back he can reject the bribe but should approve the National Broadband Network project anyway. That was his claim. Balfour Beatty’s project which claimed huge overruns in its bridges projects has thus far evaded the Senate investigation on the past bridges scam apparently since the initiator of the investigation, Sen. Sergio Osmeña, is very close to the Lopezes. There was a big mystery in the Neda particularly since one of the involved companies was Balfour Beatty, a former partner of the Lopezes who in turn are strong business patrons of President Aquino. Balfour Beatty based in London has been a partner of the Lopezes since 1997 in First Philippine Holdings Corp. The relationship has supposedly ended but this seems do not be the case since the infrastructure company of the Lopezes continues to be named First Balfour. Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson reportedly proposed to President Aquino to defer the loan agreement and the implementation of the project. This was after the Neda, the board of which is headed by Noynoy, approved the bridges project last Sept. 4. Yet it was Noynoy himself who claimed that the presidential bridges program was a big scam committed under the previous regime, but him having approved it, it can 6 Neda supposedly found out that shortly after the firm, formerly named Balfour Beatty, got the new bridges project; it immediately declared a cost overrun of 10 percent, which rightly the agency termed as highly irregular. Balfour or now Cleveland Bridge UK Ltd. secured a contract under the UK government-Assisted Bridge Construction/ Replacement Project in 2002 to build 256 bridges with lengths ranging from 30 to 60 meters. With an original project cost of P2.4 billion, the Philippine government is now paying P10 billion in added fees to Balfour. Yet, Neda still approved the project. That is like the government allowing itself to be screwed twice around and still giving the thumbs up. And that is what is called Noynoy’s straight path? Phooey! (Daily Tribune) It is almost impossible for Congress — both the Senate and the House of Representatives — to enact a law that would strip them and their sons or daughters of their right to sit in an elective office. That is unnatural because in families where there are politicians, one can be almost certain that there will always be a succession on the career of their fathers, or mothers. It is no different from a family of doctors, or lawyers. Their offspring generally take up that profession, being exposed to it early on. Even if Congress, by some miracle, decides to come up with a law against political dynasties, would this pass the constitutionality test? Chances are, it won’t, because there is nothing in the Constitution that bans a son or relative of an incumbent elected official from running. All it says is that the person must be a natural born Filipino citizen, of a certain required age, with the proper residency established requirements satisfied, and can read and write. How then can one who has satisfied the requirements in seeking an elective post be constitutionality banned from seeking that post because his father is an elected official? But there is still another problem, if the next Congress does decide to craft a measure banning political dynasties: How is political dynasty to be defined for it to be banned? Is it an incumbent politician’s wife, son, daughter, brother, nephew, running for elective office, or is elected, be categorized as being a political dynasty? Or is it a son, daughter, brother of a politician who has either died or retired from politics, now running for elective office be considered part of the political dynasty that is to be banned? If so, then there are too many of them, not just in the past, but in the present, and in all probability, in the future. In the past up to the present time, we had the political dynasties of the Osmeñas, the Roxases, the Magsaysays, the Rectos, the Tañadas, the Macapagals, the Marcoses, the Aquinos and even the Ramoses. In 1998, Filipinos voted in, as their President Joseph Estrada, who did not have that political dynasty’s DNA, but there is that political lineage today, with his wife, Loi, having been elected to the Senate, and three years after, his son, Jinggoy, was elected to the same office. Today, Jinggoy is an incumbent, and another son of Erap, JV, is also running for a Senate seat. Would this now be what is called an Estrada political dynasty? And should his sons be banned from running for elective office even when they are the electorate’s choice? And aren’t the Aquinos even more of a political dynasty? Noynoy’s father, Ninoy, was a town mayor and a senator. His mother, Cory, became the president of the Philippines, his uncle, aunts and now, even a nephew, Bam Aquino, all have the same DNA. Is it likely for Noynoy’s controlled Congress to ban the Aquinos and ban his sister, Kris Aquino, from running for the Tarlac gubernatorial post? There are a lot more of them in the House and in the Senate who can trace their political roots to their parents and grandparents. Are they to be banned, too? But an even more important issue is whether the banning of these politicians’ sons and other relatives bring about an improved membership of Congress. Probably not. What is likely to happen is that they will be next generation of political dynasties and probably, will fare worse in legislative matters. The argument is that the existence of these politicians with a long line of political DNA prevent others from having that chance to aspire for that elective office. But there again comes the reality of the people electing those whom they choose to vote to take that elective seat. And that is what democracy decrees. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier THE TALL ORDER Reprinted from Malaya with the author’s consent By Mon Datol Let GMA go, Mr. President Malacañang blabbermouths continued to maintain that former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo is feigning illness just to get out of the country. This adamant insinuation is terribly unbelievable and ran contrary to the findings of the medical experts from the Makati Medical Center, St. Luke’s Hospital and even the government-run Veterans Memorial Medical Center (VMMC) who were unanimous in declaring GMA is suffering from spinal and heart conditions. GMA was even in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the VMMC last week. Even Sandiganbayan granted GMA’s appeal for a hospital arrest which the attack dogs in Malacanang smeared at as just another feign act of the former chief of state just to escape the warrant for her arrest, which incidentally, the Sandiganbayan issued. Talaga namang.. Kakaloko mga taga-Palasyo. ***** Mrs. Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is sick. And she needs hospitalization to possibly prevent serious spinal and heart condition. If GMA really needs treatment abroad, let her go. Let her find the cure to her health problems anywhere in the globe she wants to go. Why President Noynoy Aquino prevents GMA leave the country for medical reason is beyond my reach. So as not to escape prosecution for crimes of plunder? Electoral sabotage? Human rights abuses? Pagnanakaw ng pera ng bayan? Pagtanggap ng payola sa jueteng? Etc... etc... Kung ako si PNoy? Papayagan kong magpagamot si GMA anywhere in the world she wants to seek medical treatment for her illness. Ipi-freeze lang lahat ang money and properties of the former president here in the country and let her children and husband spend for her medical expenses abroad including her plane tickets. Dami rin namang pera ni Mike Arroyo at mga anak nila ni GMA. ***** Si Ninoy, na Tatay ni Noynoy, ay pinayagang umalis ng Pinas ni Marcos para magpagamot sa Boston. Umuwi rin si Ninoy matapos magpagaling at ng hindi matagalang magtira sa Amerika. Napatay nga lang sa airport si Ninoy ng kung sinong Herodes na Mastermind ng nasabing Crime of the Century. Babalik at babalik din sa Pinas si GMA kapag pinayagang magbiyahe abroad ni PNoy. Kung si Ninoy ay nagbalik. At si Marcos ay bumalik din, patay na nga lang. Si GMA ay paniguradong uuwi rin sa Pinas, kahit anong mangyari... Patay man o’buhay. ***** Wala na nga bang jueteng sa Pinas, particular na sa Central Luzon, na siyang sinilangan ng jueteng? Buhay na buhay pa ang sugal na ito, mga kabayan, hindi lang sa Pampanga, Central Luzon kung hindi hanggang Bicol pa yata. Tumaya pa nga ako sa isang kubrador ng jueteng sa Tarlac at sa Nueva Ecija when I was in the Philippines last March 2012. Two times a day ang bolahan, kaya’t ... Dalawang beses akong nabola ng kubrador ng jueteng.. hehehehe... ***** ‘Nanay’ Lilia Pineda is the seating Pampanga Governor now, the wife of the alleged ‘jueteng lord’ in the Philippines dating back in the early 60s when I was still in my ‘puruntongs’ shorts. Even my Nanay was betting 5 centavos to her alagang kubrador when she was still alive and she sometimes won, but, always lost her bet. Never na mamatay ang jueteng sa Pinas, lalao na Central Luzon dahil sa jueteng ka lang makakataya ng 50 centavos at tatama ng hanggang Ph2, 000, kung matutuwa sayo ang lord, ang .... Jueteng lord. ***** Natanggal na presidente ng bansa si Erap Estrada dahil ke Ilocos Sur Governor Chavit Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Singson, na nagsabing dinadalhan niya ng jueteng payola si Erap sa Malacanang ng Php200-Million. Si Erap lang ang natanggal sa pwesto. Si Chavit? Hindi nasabit. Nag-sorry lang. Pinatawad ni GMA na pumalit ke Erap. Natahimik ang jueteng. Pero, hindi nawala ang usapang jueteng payola na Php200-Million na dinadala sa Malacanang, sa administration nina Mike at Gloria Arroyo... at sa... Palasyo ni PNoy now .. ***** Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper is scheduled to make an official visit to the Philippines on Nov. 9. Ambassador Leslie Gatan said PNoy would talk to PM Harper about the Philippines eagerness to work with Canada on defense and agriculture, among other areas of interest, particularly... The influx of Pinoy caregivers to Canada. ***** The President has issued Administrative Order No. 31 authorizing the increase of fees charged by government offices. To be increased are license fees, clearance fees, passport fees, airport fees, LTO licenses and all other charges by government offices. What’s this ratsa-ratsadang AO ni PNoy? Government services are supposed to be free. That’s why the Filipinos are paying taxes to raise funds to support government services. Bakit ako magbabayad sa serbisyo ng isang government doctor or a government nurse in a health center just to consult? Para ring sinabi na magbabayad ang mga magulang ng mga bata sa isang elementary public school teacher. Or shall we pay 500 pesos to a public clerk just to issue a birth certificate? Fees are already high. It is unfair to raise them further and will impose a heavy burden on the poor. High fees are in effect considered taxes. It should be imposed by Congress. Hindi ng isang AO lang ni PNoy ***** The Comelec has unanimously approved the inclusion of two more party-list congressmen to the ever-growing membership of the House of Representatives by adding Alay Buhay’s Wesley Gatchalian, son of plastic king William Gatchailan and brother to Valenzulea City Rep. Rex Gatchalian and 3-term Vaslenzuela Mayor Shwerwin Gatchalian. And the other new addition is Zenaida Maranan of 1-United Trasport Koaliyon (1-UTAK). ‘Nakngdragon itong COMELEC under the baton of Sixto Brillantes, ha, kabayan? Nagtatanggal ng mga illegitimate (daw) na party-lists like the AKO-BICOL and 33 more na walang nire-represent umanong marginalized sector para mabawasan ang bilang ng mga Kongresmen, pero, heto at nagdagdag ng dalawang party-list members gayung ang Alay Buhay ni Wesley Gatchalian ay di man lang nakakuha umano ng sapat na boto (criteria ng Comelec) para magkaruon ng isang upuan sa Kongreso. Magkano... err...paano kaya nangyari ito? Matino ang pagkakilala ko sa members ng Comelec, lalo na ke chairman Sixto Brillantes, na kapatid ng aking kaibigang DFA Usec Jose ‘Chito’ Brillantes, at alam kong never na tatanggap ng suhol si Chairman Sixto. Pero, paano nangyari nga na mabigyan ng isang upuan sa Kongreso ang Alay Buhay gayung hindi nga nakakuha ng sapat na boto ang party-list ng mga Gatchalian? Order kaya ng Palasyo. Kinawawa talaga ng Comelec ang Federation of Seniors Party-list, na dapat mayruong tatlong representatives dahil sumegunda itong partido ng mga elders sa nakaraang 2010 polls sa Ako Bicol. Mahigit isang milyong boto rin ang nakuha ng Seniors Federation pero, imbes na tatlo, ginawang 2 at ibinigay nga ke Rep. Mikey Arroyo ang isang seat gayung hindi rin daw na-meet ng partylist ni Mikey ang kaukulang boto para sa isang seat sa Kongreso. Sayang ang Comelec. Akala ko natuwid. Natuwad pa rin. ‘‘KMU’s partylist is Anakpawis, Anakbayan’s and LFS’ partylist is Kabataan, Gabriela’s is Gabriela partylist, while Bayan’s is Bayan Muna partylist.’ Akbayan vs. Communists A FORMAL complaint lodged before the Commission on Elections seeks the disqualification of six, highly successful and high-profile party-list groups. Should Bayan Muna, Gabriela, Anakpawis, Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT), Kabataan and Katribu be allowed to stand for election as party-list groups seeking seats in the House of Representatives in the 2013 elections, even as they are the “creations” of the CPP-NDF-NPA, which seek the armed overthrow of the our system of government? After all, how can such groups participate in a democratic process (such as the election) while openly seeking to destroy that very democracy that makes our elections possible? This should make sense even to a fourth-grader. Note the petitioner groups – New Guardians for Freedom and Democracy (NGI), the People’s Advocacy for Collaboration and Empowerment (Peace, Inc.) and the First Philippine Pro-Democracy Foundation, Inc. – in their petition to Comelec: “We are positive these are creations of the CCP, as part of their political struggle to infiltrate, manipulate and exploit our country’s free and democratic institutions to support their violent and inhuman national democratic revolution.” CPP founding chair Jose Ma. Sison openly admitted in a 1987 speech in Brussels, Belgium that Bagong Alyansang Makabayan or BAYAN, Kilusang Mayo Uno (KMU), Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas (KMP), Gabriela, League of Filipino Students (LFS), ACT and KADENA, among others, are components of the CPP-NDF NPA. The petition argues that these Communist front organizations “serve the purpose and intentions of the CPP in fomenting both the armed and political struggles” and that “despite their entry and participation in the congressional mill, they have not shed off their street protests and marches with signage calling for the destruction of our free and democratic government and booting out of office the duly elected officials of the country.” They point out that KMU’s partylist is Anakpawis, Anakbayan’s and LFS’ partylist is Kabataan, Gabriela’s is Gabriela, while Bayan’s is Bayan Muna. If these Communist front party-lists are not stricken off by the Comelec or the 2013 election, can we expect the complaining groups to wage a campaign asking democracy-loving Filipinos not to vote for the above? “The balance is delicately tilted in favor of these partylist groups masquerading as pro-people, pro-environment and pro-poor. This must not go unchecked, otherwise we could be held responsible, one way or another, in paving the way for the collapse of government and causing untold sufferings on our people,” says NGI national president Margarito “Tito Porras”, Dr. John Ortiz Teope of the First Philippine ProDemocracy and Agnes Reano Lopez of Peace, Inc. By the way, Anakbayan hogged headlines recently by storming the press conference of Akbayan, a left-ofcenter partylist group against which the CPP-NDF-NPA leadership issued the equivalent of a fatwa or death sentence. Now, these anti-Democracy militants in Anakbayan want to have their cake and eat it too by disqualifying Akbayan. All of their arguments against Akbayan don’t wash. The marginalized sector Akbayan represents the poor who are not emancipated nor can ever be saved from being marginalized overnight. (Mark 14:7 “The poor you will always have with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me.”) Sure, some former officials of Akbayan have been asked to join the executive department and some government instrumentalities, but they were called to render public service precisely because their advocacies are in line with President Aquino’s own. What’s wrong with that? Nothing, in the same way that there’s nothing wrong with the present Akbayan leaders continuing to seek a seat in Congress. Unlike the Communist Anakbayan and others, Akbyan believes in Philippine Democracy. The poor and other marginalized sectors need all the help they can get – from Congress, the executive and even the judiciary – if their plight and problems are to be addressed properly through long-term and not just BandAid solutions. If Akbayan is represented in both the legislative and executive departments, so what? Bottom line is what Akbayan has accomplished for the marginalized sectors it represents. Akbayan is a pioneer partylist group. It is one of the few original partylist organizations since 1998, which has consistently defended the interests of the marginalized and underrepresented. It is a multi-sectoral partylist group composed of workers, farmers, women, youth, professionals, LGBT and informal settlers and is firmly committed to our Democracy! Akbayan enjoys popular support from the public. Since 1998, its leaders have been consistently elected in Congress. They have championed numerous social issues like the extension of the agrarian reform program (CARPER), and the passage of important pieces of legislation like the National Land Use Bill, the Right to Labor Organization Law and the Cheaper Medicines Act. Akbayan is one of the few political parties that pushed for the passage of the partylist law. While the extreme left like Bayan Muna was still clinging to its ‘boycott election’ policy, Akbayan was already busy pushing for the implementation of the partylist system to encourage the people’s meaningful participation in our electoral exercise and bring the voice of the marginalized to the halls of Congress. Akbayan is in government to bring back the people’s trust in democratic institutions of power. The party is proud of its leaders who have been appointed to important government posts. It is proof that Akbayan does not only represent the marginalized but is also capable of governance. These achievements point to its success in representing the marginalized in the different levels of the government. These are also the results of the people’s relentless struggle for reforms, a struggle where Kahayan’s place is secure. I do not endorse any party-list group but I would never survive a Communist takeover. *** Readers who missed a column can access www.duckyparedes.com/blogs. This is updated daily. Your reactions are welcome at [email protected] 7 Philippine Courier My Cup of Tea Reprinted from Malaya with the author’s consent ‘It is disturbing that instead of learning from the 2010 election, some of those involved are sliding back which could erase whatever gains that the country has gained in holding credible elections.’ Scary decisions by the National Printing Office STRANGE things are going on at the National Printing Office which has been given the job to bid out P780 million contracts to supply and print 55 million ballots for the May 2013 elections. This will be the second automated elections. The 2010 election was not perfect but for a first-time experience, it was a huge success. In less than 24 hours, the nation knew the results of the presidential and vicepresidential race with almost 70 percent of the votes counted. A Social Weather Stations survey showed overwhelming satisfaction (three out of four Filipinos) over the results of the first automated nationwide elections in the country. It is disturbing that instead of learning from good practices of the 2010 election and leveling up the preparations for the 2013 elections, some of those involved in the 2013 elections preparations are sliding back which could erase whatever gains that the country has gained in holding credible elections. In the 2010 elections, the Commission on Elections used precinct count optical scan machines supplied by Smartmatic. The same 82,000 PCOS machines will be used in the 2013 elections. The Supreme Court has upheld the validity of the P1.8 billion contract Comelec has entered with Smartmatic. In the 2010 elections, Smartmatic and the National Printing Office printed and supplied the ballots used in the PCOS machines. This year, Comelec deviated from what they did in 2010 of deciding who would print and supply the ballots, and instead gave that job to the NPO. This is where the problem is. NPO has awarded the P780 million contract to Holy Family Inc., which is partnering with Canon Marketing Philippines. Holy Family/Canon got the contract despite submitting a false claim on the bidding requirements and the failure of their sample ballots in the test. NPO disqualified two other bidders: a joint venture of Advance Computer Forms Inc., ASA Colors and ePDS Inc, a subsidiary of the Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co., and Smartmatic-Total Information Management. Advance Computers and Smartmatic are contesting their disqualification saying that the way NPO conducted the bidding was blatantly skewed in favor of Holy Family. Smartmatic said one of the grounds for the disqualification, which is existence of the corporation since 2006, was not a requirement in the checklist provided the 8 bidders. Another ground for disqualification which applied to both Smartmatic and Advance Computers Forms was failing to meet the single biggest contract requirement. Government procurement rules require all bidders to have done a contract worth as much as 50 percent of the project they are bidding for. But Smartmatic did the 2010 printing of ballots which was covered by a contract worth about P1 billion? NPO said the 2010 ballot job of Smartmatic is not a “similar contract” to the one being bidded out. Smartmatic is asking for a reconsideration of NPO’s decision. But how about Holy Family, the bid winner? Holy Family said that it had a P120 million project with the Maritime Industry Authority for the printing of Seafarer’s Identification and Record Book and a P60 million contract with NPO for the barangay elections. But MARINA Officer –incharge, in response to a query by Smartmatic, said in a Sept. 14, 2012 letter that “based on the records of the Office, the Marina had never transacted with a certain Holy Family Printing to print the SIRB considering that the MARINA only procures from Recognized Government Printers (RGPs) such as NPO, to print our SIRB. Furthermore, our annual budget in procuring SIRBs ranges from P30 to P35 Million per year, hence, there were no contracts awarded to any RGPs to print MARINA SIRBs amounting to P120 million in one year or at one time purchase order.” Did Holy Family lie or make false representation? Why does NPO not seem to be bothered? When it came to testing Holy Family’s sample ballots, instead of bringing 1,000 sample ballots as required on testing day (Sept. 12), it brought only eight. But it was okay with NPO. Out of the eight ballots, six didn’t fit the machine. Filipinas Ordoño, Smartmatic representative, said, “On the basis that the 2 ballots passed 6 out of 15 times it was scanned, the SBAC chairman concluded that the sample testing has passed. When we clarified that she is using the basis of 6 passing out of 10 expected to pass she said, ‘Yes, 60% is above 50%, so it’s passed.’” Ordoño said there’s nothing in the bid documents that mentions these 50% criteria for passing. She asked, “Consider this sampling to be Filipino people voting during Election Day. Is the NPO saying that if 40% of the voters will NOT be able to cast their vote that is okay?” By Dr. Leto Tigley Why not Rizal as next Filipino Saint? The boxing pride of Cebu, AJ bazooka Banal, last Saturday (Oct. 20) lost in the 9th round via TKO in a humiliating fashion to a hard punching Thai boxer. Michael Aldeguer who had been very vocal of his contender for a world champion was suddenly distraught and said that everything for him will be put on hold. That was Banal’s second miscalculation. He was good in the first few rounds but the resistant Thailander did not give him a space until such time the referee halt the fight. Although the majority of our Filipino boxers won but it was a good lesson also, that the world is catching up, and we should never underestimate it. Congrats to Rey ‘boomboom’ Bautista for winning the WBO Featherweight Belt. And the second Greatest Filipino Boxer, Nonito Donaire congratulated all victors last Saturday’s fight. With no changes by December 15, he will also be fighting in Mexico against Jorge Arce, one of the fans favourite Mexican boxers. The bout would be sold out in the TV tube, maybe pay per view. Cebu is in a festive mood for this month due to the canonization of Beato Pedro Calungsod to sainthood. Although there are disputable data about him, we should put into our mind that it is the Catholic hierarchy’s prerogative whom to choose as their saints. Since He came from Cebu as presumed, I am very proud of him. But it would be too bad for choosing a PBA player as a model picture for him. It degrades my feeling about the good intention of the church. Canada also has a new Saint, and she came from the first Nation aboriginal ethnic group. Her name is Kateri Tekakwitha, a Lumni tribes in the border of Washington and Canada. The Americans also claimed as their own, but there is nothing disputable, because in the 16th Century, the borders between these two countries were not so clearly delineated. So, Kateri, is more known as a Native American Saint. I hope one of this days, another Filipino Saint will be elected in the Vatican’s roster. Maybe one from the K of C not KC or else they will misinterpret it that it’s Kentucky chicken. What about the Knights of Rizal making a resolution requesting the Good Pope to canonize Jose Rizal as a saint. After all, the Rizalians in the mountain of Surigao has so many testimonies that the image of Rizal healed their love one from various grave and serious diseases. The Ecleos of Dinagat Island became a conclave since then because their grandfather has a spiritual power like the Apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. I believe the excellent Archbishop of Surigao should study his life and then, maybe, elevate him as a blessed in the Catholic hierarchy. Ruben, who is at large and known to be killer of his wife has his own miracles too. The PNP and the NBI can not see him even if he is in front of them. And now they double the pay for his hunts, and nobody cares. Is it not a miracle? Too much about spiritual matters and let’s jumped at the US Politics. America race for the Presidency is in neck-to-neck battle and most of the survey showed a statistical tie. But the CNN broadcasters forecasted that it is Obama again after November 6. A Filipino friend from New Jersey emailed me, that Obama is the stronger favourite for the female voters because for the last four years everything in the USA retrogresses so fast. Not economically but hunger and less jobs and most of all the support for unassisted contraceptive financial allotments. He said no wonder that American women likely inclined to have daily whole day copulations because Obama supported the law. One also does not like Mitt Romney because as Pastor in his Mormon Church, he is practicing Monogamy. And very caring to his family. He said it is supposed to be the Christian Church that will be practicing it. But when I checked with my other friend, it turns out that he has two wives in the Philippines and one here in North America. The guy is the one practicing polygamy. But he rationalizes it by saying, that he is not an American, he is a Filipino. So, he is exempted. Maybe this guy is a lawyer, eh? So we have peace now in the Philippines. The MILF and the Government have signed the preliminary deal, and the Moro populated provinces will rename Bangsamoro. MILF militias chanted “ Ali Akbar! Ali Akbar! “to pronounce their triumph, and the disentanglement of chaos in the South. But for the AFP gunrunners this is not healthy for them. They could no longer sell their ammunition and guns to the MILF. So, the only market now available is the criminals, warlords and politician’s goons. What about the communist initiated NPA? If the NPA will have a deal with the Government, our men in uniform will be miserably destitute. No more market for their allotted guns and ammunitions to a big body which is very much in need. Nur Misuari forecasted another trouble in the south. He instigated notions that majority of the MILF is very much against the deal. And most of the MILF fighters move to their camp to continue the fighting. Maybe, in War, Misuari will benefit from it. Is he not a gunrunner? By purchasing guns for their fighters, it’s already good business, and that would be a good career in investment. So chaos, trouble, or war is his business probably. I am inserting this medical News for the good of those who are very vulnerable to sedentary activities: October 15, 2012 (Leicester United Kingdom) — The more time people spend sitting, the greater their risk of diabetes, cardiovascular events, and death, a new meta-analysis has shown [1]. This is the first research to systematically quantify the strength of association between sedentary behavior--beyond just TV viewing--and health outcomes and shows a particularly consistent relationship for diabetes, say Dr Emma G Wilmot (University of Leicester, UK) and colleagues in their paper in the November 2012 issue of Diabetologia. I don’t need to emphasize it because everything is very clear. By the way, Congratulations to Fountainhead Tennis tournament winners. So you have now your trophies, after the Awarding Party last Saturday. Next time reduce your belly, and minimize your sipping of beer and liquors so that on the next awarding you look like Coco Martin of Walang Hanggan. Yes, the teleseries is the favourite pastime of our kababayans abroad. It is a romantic story of how love is defined and also how it is executed. Love is the basis why Jesus was sent into this world. John 3: 16, “ For God so love the world and he gives his only begotten Son, that whosoever believe in him, will not perish but have everlasting life”. Love heals everything from illness to problem. And anger, hatred, and envy will facilitate your journey to the grave. For heaven sake, let’s be friend forever. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Ombudsman Clears GMA MANILA, Philippines (October 24, 2012) - The Office of the Ombudsman (OMB) has dismissed the plunder charge filed against former President and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo and several others in connection with the alleged misuse of Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) funds amounting to more than P540 million, it was learned Wednesday. In an 11-page resolution issued on September 25, 2012, OMB Chair Conchita Carpio Morales said there was no sufficient evidence to elevate the case to the Sandiganbayan against Mrs. Arroyo and three others. Former Solicitor General Frank Chavez filed the complaint before the Department of Justice (DOJ) in April 2011 claiming that the money was used in the 2004 presidential election when Mrs. Arroyo sought a fresh mandate as president. The dropping of the case was based mainly on the findings of the Commission on Audit (COA) that the disbursement of the OWWA funds was legal. The COA also stated that OWWA funds were properly disbursed and fully liquidated like the fund transfers to the labor attaches in Kuwait, Lebanon, Bahrain which were fully utilized for the purposes they were intended. Also named in the complaint were former Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo, former Health Secretary and current Chairman of the Civil Service Commission Francisco Duque III and former OWWA Administrator Virgilio Angelo. The respondents said then that the transfer of the OWWA funds had nothing to do with the 2004 presidential election but based on the requirements of the National Health Insurance Program law (RA 7875). Duque said the law directs the integration of OWWA funds with Medicare under the Social Security System (SSS) and the Government Insurance System (GSIS). The other respondents in the case who were also cleared were former members of the OWWA Board of Trustees, namely former Labor Secretary Patricia Sto. Tomas, Manuel Imson, Rosalinda Baldoz, Mina Figueroa, Caroline Rogge, Victorino Balais, Grogorio Oca, and Virginia Pasalo. The case stemmed from the complaints for plunder, graft and corruption, malversation of public funds, qualified theft and violations of the Omnibus Election Code and the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials filed by former Solicitor General Francisco Chavez. The same charges were filed by Migrante, a militant organization of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs). In their complaint before the DOJ, Mrs. Arroyo’s accusers claimed that she and the other respondents have allegedly “systematically” orchestrated the diversion and misuse of more than P540 million OWWA funds for “questionable” acquisitions. They insisted that the money did not benefit OFWs but were instead used for electioneering operations in the 2004 presidential elections. They also accused the respondents of illegally diverting US$293,500 and another P5 million in OWWA funds for the purchase of vehicles and stockpiling of Philippine posts aboard. The DOJ in its recommendation to the Office of the Ombudsman dismissed the plunder and graft charges against Mrs. Arroyo and her co-respondents but recommended that they be charged with technical malversation. The Ombudsman junked the DOJ findings, saying that there was just no evidence to support it. Anti-graft investigators said the transfer of the more than P530 million OWWA fund to PHIC was perfectly legal as it was in accordance with Republic Act 7875 (PhilHealth Law) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations and as confirmed by Department of Justice Opinion No. 25 signed by then Secretary Teofisto Guingona Jr. Meanwhile, Mrs. Arroyo’s camp has until today to secure a temporary restraining order (TRO) from the Supreme Court or else her arraignment on a plunder case will push through on Monday at the Sandiganbayan. Atty. Renato Bocar, Sandiganbayan executive clerk of court and OMB Chair Conchita Carpio Morales designated spokesman, said if the High Tribunal issued a TRO today, the arwealth of P50 million or more. raignment of Mrs. Arroyo will be postMrs. Arroyo and at least nine other poned indefinitely. former government officials are facing The Supreme Court has a very brief plunder charges before the Sandiganbayan period to act on the petition as tomorrow over allegations they misused P366 million (Friday) has been declared a holiday by worth of PCSO funds. Malacañang. Mrs. Arroyo is set to be arraigned “The Supreme Court’s TRO is on Monday (October 29), the same day the preliminary remedy in the plunder case that the Sandiganbayan First Division will against Mrs. Arroyo and without it the ar- hear the petition for bail of her three coraignment will push through,” Bocar ex- accused namely former PCSO board memplained. bers Manuel Morato, Sergio Valencia and This came as the Arroyo camp for- Benigno Aguas. mally asked the Supreme Court yesterday Mrs. Arroyo, along with least nine to stop the plunder trial against her and dis- other former government officials, is facmiss the same charges filed against her by ing a plunder case over the alleged frauduthe Ombudsman. lent transfer of P366 million confidential Under the plunder law, a public intelligence funds of the PCSO from 2008 official may be charged with plunder if he to 2010 (With reports from Rolly T. Caranor she is accused of amassing ill-gotten dang and Charissa M. Luci) Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 9 Philippine Courier Stars of the Month Samson writes 30 Veteran journalist Clarito L. Samson died last Wednesday, October 17, 2012, a victim of a fatal heart attack. He was 52. By Ores B O Ti Ting Samson, who studied at Lyceum, started as a sportswriter for the Philippines News Agency and gradually rose through the ranks, becoming the first sports editor of Malaya. He also edited the sports page of the defunct Today newspaper. In between, he also wrote for the Manila Bulletin and Tempo. Josephine Bejar Ng She is more of a listener than a talker. Very demure, soft spoken with a captivating smile makes you want to know more about her. Known for her kindness and generosity amongst friends and in the community, Josephine or “Iping” certainly has all the qualities of a STAR. Always dressed impeccably with stunning jewelries worn elegantly, she grew up with a very strict and disciplined father. The youngest of three girls in the family, she graduated from Silliman University High School and enrolled in Business Administration but decided to quit college and marry the man she was in love with. Although, she lived a privileged childhood, she developed a penchant for baking unique and delicious cakes and desserts. While raising a family, she decided to open a small eatery in the heart of Dumaguete City. But her late husband Jessie Ng, a professional Engineer, decided instead to delve on instinct: to formulate a marinating sauce to get that perfect taste of a barbecued chicken on a skewer. It took quite a while to get that perfection but they persevered. Like they say – “try and try again”. And they did! In 1980, they opened the first Jo’s Chicken Inato restaurant - the rest is history. Now, there are over 30 franchised restaurants in the Visayas and Mindanao regions. And yet, in spite of all these accomplishments, she continues to pursue other interesting and unique projects. When I asked her why not just enjoy and take life easy…she said, “I feel the need to have my brain working, otherwise, baka ako magalzheimer na”. How true indeed! She stands out not from her towering height of almost 5feet and 11 inches--- the tallest student in class while still in High School, but for her contribution to help those in need! She achieved the pinnacle of success for believing and pursuing that one bright star that will guide her forever. Her two sons are now putting forward their time, energy, and commitments to the success of the family business. I say, more power to you!! “It is never easy to keep reaching for dreams. Strength and courage can sometimes be lonely friends. But those who do reach the stars, walk in stardust.” unknown. (For Star of the Month inquiries, pls. call Ores Ting@ 416-546-9391) Servicio Filipino p Internationale Call us now at (416) 266-3838 or (416) 264-7676 Fax (416) 265-3939 And look for Marissa Corpus (UP Graduate) 65 Elfreda Blvd., Toronto ON M1L 4L5 Email: [email protected] > Want to sponsor / help a relative? > Visitor needing an employer? > Need a new employer? > Any immigration problems? > Caregiver sponsorship available NARIRITO PARA TUMULONG SA INYO! Samson, 52 special consultant of the Philippine Olympic Committee. At the time of his death, he was writing a sports column for Malaya-Business Insight. His remains were cremated yesterday at Loyola Guadalupe where viewing will be held up to Saturday (Oct. 20). October 17, 2012 An open letter to the Honourable Senator Tobias Enverga Jr. Dear Sir: May I respectfully offer my sincerest congratulations many times over for your recent appointment to the Canadian Senate. Your appointment is an astronomical event for all…to be the first Filipino to be granted a position that comes with so much prestige, importance and responsibility. This event will for sure be part of our Philippine and Canadian history and will forever be embedded in our memories and for the generations to come. I have always been proud to be a Filipino…but now I am even prouder that one of us, a most deserving person, has been chosen to serve in the most esteemed Senate of one of the greatest countries of the world. You have definitely worked hard, devoted precious time and selflessly got involved with the Filipino community. I am certain you have sacrificed some of your personal priorities for the sake of others. Definitely, my fellow countrymen in Ontario, in Canada, in the Philippines and all over the world are fortunate to have you represent us in the highest parliament of the great Canada. I implore all Filipinos to move forward… to leave behind all their differences in the past…for a better future for us all and our children. I ask them to allow you to help us …to give us some directions… for a better world to live in. I ask of them to ease your job, not hinder it, such that you may attain the highest goal that you so desire for us. I know you have great ambitions for us all and the best of intentions deep in your kind heart. You have attained what most of us can only dream of and envy. But I feel nothing but true admiration for what you have accomplished… through dedication, hard work, persistence and belief that you can make a difference despite the adversities that you face. May our own Filipino people give you the chance to prove yourself in a much bigger world. I salute your success and I pray that the future brings you even more, so that there may be hope of an even better tomorrow. And may God help you in all your earnest endeavors. May all the Filipinos and other nationalities realize and appreciate the special person you are in the Senate. I may be a Filipino with a humble beginning from a small, unknown and poor fishing village in the Philippines, but I celebrate and rejoice at this rare golden opportunity to make it known that you have me and millions of others extremely proud. Again MABUHAY!!! Yours sincerely and God bless, 10 YEARS HELPING OUR KABABAYANS Manila: Please call Rubie Tupas at Tel: (632) 830-0573 Fax: (632) 830-0547. Suite 821 Cityland Herrera Towers, #98 Herrera Corner Valero Sts., Salcedo Village, Makati City Email: [email protected] Member: Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) "Full Member" M041454 10 He later joined the government as a presidential assistant during the term of President Fidel V. Ramos. After his government stint, he tried his hand at sports promoting and successfully promoted several fights of former world champion Luisito Espinosa. His last stint in government service was as a special consultant for the Land Transportation Office. He later served as (Signed) Clemente Cabillan Sales Representative Re/Max Realty Specialists Inc. 905-272-3434 President & CEO PHILUSCAN International Realty Inc. 416-414-8237 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Obama vs. Romney: A mad dash to the finish LAS VEGAS (AFP) — And they’re off! Barack Obama and Mitt Romney galloped out of the post-debate gate to woo swing state voters in the final week of a race that seems destined for a photo finish. Both will criss-cross America as they seek an edge in the presidential contest, but one state in particular — the Midwestern prize of Ohio — will get the lion’s share of visits. Senior Romney advisor Kevin Madden said: “People are really getting to that point where they are making their mind up in key states.” Barely nine hours after the third and final debate wrapped up last week with both sides declaring victory, Romney was on a plane to Nevada, from where he was to head on to the Rocky Mountain state of Colorado. Both these states were won by Obama in his 2008 White House victory, but polls suggest they could swing to the Republican this year, paving stones on a road to a possible victory that must almost certainly pass through Ohio. After his western jaunt, Romney will spend at least Wednesday and Thursday week in Ohio, part of America’s industrial heartland, still leaning Democrat in most state polls but somewhere the Republican can sense a new momentum. “He’ll be going to Ohio and Virginia, he’ll be back in Florida,” said Ed Gillespie, another top Romney advisor. “We’re obviously going to those states that are most critical to our path to electoral college success.” If history is a guide, Romney’s yellow brick road to the 270 electoral votes needed for victory on Nov. 6 must go through Ohio — no Republican has ever won the White House without also winning the Buckeye State. Until this month Obama appeared to have a lock on Ohio and most of the other swing states, posting a double digit lead in some polls and dominating key demographics — in particular women. But, after Romney bested a lackluster Obama in their first debate on Oct. 3, the race began to narrow. First in nationwide polls then, crucially, in the 10 battlegrounds that will decide the result on Nov. 6. He still faces an uphill struggle in Ohio, however. An average of recent state polls calculated by Web site RealClearPolitics.com gives Obama a 1.9 percent lead, while the fivethirtyeight. com polling blog for the New York Times estimates the President’s advantage at 2.9 percent. No polling firm has ever given Romney the advantage in Ohio. The President is determined not to cede this lead, which could probe his last line of defense against a Romney victory if all else fails. So he was in Ohio again on Tuesday, seeking to build on a better debate Monday. “Yes, we have been through some tough times, but you have never seen me quit,” Obama told crowds in Florida, before heading to Ohio, maintaining the air of confidence he exuded in his final head-to-head clash with Romney. For weeks the Republicans have tried to convey a similar confi- dence that their game plan in Ohio will bring victory, hoping an impression of momentum not yet completely borne out by local polling will prove selfsustaining. Romney political director Rich Beeson recently mapped out the grassroots game plan which has seen volunteers knock on 1.4 million doors and make 3.7 million phone calls in the state since May. But one of Obama’s trusted allies in the Senate, number two Democrat Dick Durbin, insisted the president would hold on to Ohio. “We’re not playing ‘not to lose.’ We’re playing to win,” he told AFP, predicting the race would come down to eight states. Ohio may be leaning for Obama Townhouse for Rent PAG did it again! The Philippine Artists Group did it again. Two out of the 3 prizes were won by PAG members in the recently concluded Ontario Plein Air Society (OPAS) contest in Unionville. Shown from left with their winning pieces are PAG's Antonio 'Jun' Afable - 3rd Prize and Teodorico 'Teody' Asuncion - 1st Prize, with Chinese artist Ted Yao 2nd Prize. Last July, Afable also won 1st Prize in the first OPAS contest joined by the Filipino artists group. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 — although the numbers have tightened — but Romney is favorite in Florida and Virginia is a dead heat. If Romney can hold Florida and move the needle in his favor in one of the other two, he has a realistic shot at winning. If he loses both Florida and Ohio, the math just isn’t there for a Romney victory. But with no Republican ever winning the presidency without also winning Ohio, Romney will sink massive human and financial capital into the state. Studies show the two campaigns have already spent some $100 million on television ads in battleground states in the closing weeks of the race, and both of them have racked up substantial time on the ground in Ohio. - 3-Bedrooms + 2 Full-bathrooms 1 Parking space Located in Brampton, Ontario Newly-renovated with new appliances included Minutes to Hwy 401 Close to Bramalea Shopping Centre Backyard Door leads to Public Transportation Interested parties, please call: 647-405-0420 or 416-272-3785 11 Philippine Courier Pope: ‘May Calungsod’s courage inspire Filipinos’ VATICAN CITY, October 22, 2012(AP) —The Philippines got its second saint Sunday with Pope Benedict XVI canonizing the 17th-century teen missionary Pedro Calungsod along with six other martyrs of the Catholic Church in a solemn ceremony at St. Peter’s Square in Rome. A sizeable crowd of flag-waving Filipinos, expatriates in Italy, who turned out in droves for the ceremony, and a delegation of 5,000 from home, cheered as the Pope declared Calungsod a saint and worthy of veneration by the entire Catholic Church. “May the example and courageous witness of Pedro Calungsod inspire the dear people of the Philippines to announce the kingdom bravely and to win souls for God,” Pope Benedict XVI said in his homily. About 80,000 pilgrims from different parts of the world filled St. Peter’s Square for the canonization rites, which started with the head of the Vatican’s saint-making office reading aloud each of the names of the seven new saints in Latin, drawing cheers from the crowd. The Philippines waited 12 years to get a second Filipino saint. The country’s first saint is Lorenzo Ruiz, who was canonized in 1987. Vice President Jejomar Binay, representing President Benigno Aquino, who left for state visits to Australia and New Zealand Sunday, led the Philippine government delegation. Binay said the canonization of Calungsod was important to the Philippines, Asia’s largest Roman Catholic-majority country. Pope Benedict XVI also canonized six other Catholic martyrs of various nationalities. Jacques Berthieu, a 19th-century French Jesuit who was killed by rebels in Madagascar, where he worked as a missionary. Giovanni Battista Piamarta, an Italian who founded a religious order in 1900 and established a Catholic printing and publishing house in his native Brescia. Carmen Salles y Barangueras, a Spanish nun who founded a religious order to educate children in 1892. Anna Schaeffer, a 19th-century German lay- woman who became a model for the sick and suffering after she fell into a boiler and badly burned her legs, the wounds never healing and causing her constant pain. Kateri Tekakwitha, a 17th-century Mohican who was ostracized and persecuted for converting to the Catholic faith and now the first Native American saint. Mother Marianne Cope, a 19th-century Franciscan nun who cared for leprosy patients in Hawaii. + In the Philippines, thousands of Catholics followed the canonization rites, which began at 9:30 a.m. (about 4 p.m. in Manila) and celebrated C a l u n g s o d ’s sainthood with Masses, processions, stage plays, religious shows and the launching of postal stamps bearing his image and a PerryScope map of his journey as a young Catholic missionary to Guam, where he was killed while spreading the Catholic faith 340 years ago. Celebrations across the Philippines were centered in Metro Manila, Cebu City and in the municipality of Ginatilan in southwestern Cebu, which claims to be Calungsod’s hometown. Large television screens were installed in church compounds to allow the faithful to watch the canonization rites in the Vatican. Details of Calungsod’s life are scarce, but according to available Church records, when he and the mission superior, the Rev. Diego Luis de San Vitores, tried to baptize a baby in Tumhon village in Guam on April 2, 1672, the child’s father angrily refused and, with the help of other natives, hacked them both to death and threw their bodies into the ocean. Romney’s ‘Romnesia’ By Perry Diaz The day after the second presidential debate last October 16, President Barack Obama told a cheering crowd of supporters that his rival, Mitt Romney, was suffering from a very rare condition. No, it’s not the avian “Big Bird” syndrome nor the Simian immunodeficiency virus. Nobody knows where it originated. And, to date, only one other person is afflicted with this condition, Romney’s vice presidential running mate, Paul Ryan. But because it has not been manifested before in other human beings, it is understandable that Obama called this condition, “Romnesia.” As reported in the news, Obama told a cheering crowd of around 10,000 supporters in Fairfax, Virginia: “Now that we’re 18 days out from the election, ‘Mr. Severely Conservative’ wants you to think he was severely kidding about everything he said over the last year.” “He’s forgetting what his own positions are, and he’s betting that you will, too. I mean, he’s changing up so much and backtracking and sidestepping. We’ve got to -- we’ve got to -- we’ve got to name this condition that he’s going through. I think -- I think it’s called ‘Romnesia.’ ” The crowd roared in approval! The third debate between Obama and Romney last October 22 was no different from the second debate – Romney continued to manifest Romnesia. He basically retreated from his positions on foreign policy and parroted Obama’s positions on just about every aspect of foreign policy. It makes one wonder: Was it a case of “Romnesia” or an endorsement of Obama’s foreign policy? Clinch and hug Romney knew that debating Obama in an area where he has zero exposure and no 12 experience would be politically suicidal. So, like in a boxing bout, he clinched and hugged Obama each time Obama attacked him. However, Obama made it a point to remind Romney of his past positions on foreign policy issues such as the Afghanistan withdrawal timetable, Syria, Egypt, and other flashpoints in the Middle East and Central Asia. Romney responded by just staring back idiotically at Obama. But it is interesting to note that Romney did not bring up the Benghazi “act of terrorism” again, which caused him monumental embarrassment during their second debate when he wrongly claimed that it took Obama two weeks to admit that the Benghazi attack was an “act of terrorism.” In fact, Obama declared that it was indeed an “act of terrorism” during a press briefing at the Rose Garden the day after the incident. Horses and bayonets But nothing is more awkwardly embarrassing during their third debate than when Romney put on a show that Obama was weakening the country’s military capability. He zeroed in on the U.S. Navy saying that it is smaller today than it was in 1917 when there were 313 ships and today there are only 285. Obama responded, “Well, Governor, we also have fewer horses and bayonets… because the nature of our military has changed. We have these things called aircraft carriers where planes land on them. We have these ships that go underwater, nuclear submarines.” Touché. If there is anything that Romney achieved, it’s that he did not lose by knockout; the pollsters gave Obama a “unanimous decision” victory. It was probably a relief to Team Romney that their man was able to avoid a political knockout. Yes, they’d rather see their man foolishly embarrassed than floored. Indeed, the third debate proved without a shadow of a doubt that Obama’s foreign policy has maintained the United States’ leadership in world affairs. And because of Romney’s tacit endorsement of Obama’s foreign policy, the final two weeks of the presidential campaign would be confined to domestic issues, most importantly the state of the economy. But where does Romney stand? Lies and hoaxes With no clear definition of what he stood for and no specifics on how he is going to improve the economy, Romney has to resort to playing games to mislead the voters. Indeed, by feigning “Romnesia” and flooding the airwaves and networks with untruthful infomercials and attack ads against Obama, he just might be able to hoodwink the voters into buying the snake oil he’s peddling. And there is the underground campaign that’s hitting the Internet and bombarding millions of emails with lies and hoaxes about Obama. This reminds me of Adolf Hitler’s Propaganda Minister, Joseph Goebbels, whose mantra was: “If you tell a lie big enough and keep repeating it, people eventually come to believe it.” Recently, I received an email with a link to an anti-Obama video. I checked with Snopes.com to verify the credibility of information on the video. It turned out to be a hoax. I responded to the sender, “It’s very sad that a lot of people fall for these hoaxes and lies. Gullibility is worse than stupidity.” The sender replied, “Who are the ‘gullible that are worse than stupid’ that you mentioned?” I answered, “A stupid person has a low mental intelligence. A gullible person is an intelligent individual but he or she is easily taken for a fool.” The sender did not respond. Then there was one person who called me an “ultra liberal Democrat.” I couldn’t help but respond. I told him that I’m a long-time fiscal conservative and social moderate Republican who still believes in the Grand Old Party of Abraham Lincoln. I told him that I supported the presidential bids of Ronald Reagan, George H.W. Bush, Bob Dole, and George W. Bush. I told him that I supported Obama in 2008 because of the disastrous policies of George W. Bush, which led to the financial meltdown that year. I told him that I’m supporting Obama again this year because Romney’s policies would be detrimental to the country’s economy. I told him that Romney’s tax plan to give $8 trillion over 10 years in tax breaks to the rich would put the tax burden on the back of the middle class and working poor, which I find to unconscionable. It is no longer about conservatism; it’s about greed. With 14 days to Election Day, the campaign is down to the wire in seven battleground states – Colorado, Iowa, Wisconsin, Ohio, New Hampshire, Virginia, and Florida. Romney and Ryan would continue to manifest their affliction with “Romnesia” to hide their right-wing agenda and Obama and Biden would continue to expose their real positions. At the end of the day, the American voters would decide intelligently. They would vote their conscience and elect the president whom they believe would serve all Americans. ([email protected]) Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Business Edited by: Miguel Caducio US to overtake Saudi as world’s top oil producer NEW YORK, October 25, 2012 (AP) — U.S. oil output is surging so fast that the United States could soon overtake Saudi Arabia as the world’s biggest producer. Driven by high prices and new drilling methods, U.S. production of crude and other liquid hydrocarbons is on track to rise 7 percent this year to an average of 10.9 million barrels per day. This will be the fourth straight year of crude increases and the biggest singleyear gain since 1951. The boom has surprised even the experts. “Five years ago, if I or anyone had predicted today’s production growth, people would have thought we were crazy,” says Jim Burkhard, head of oil markets research at IHS CERA, an energy consulting firm. The Energy Department forecasts that U.S. production of crude and other liquid hydrocarbons, which includes biofuels, will average 11.4 million barrels per day next year. That would be a record for the U.S. and just below Saudi Arabia’s output of 11.6 million barrels. Citibank forecasts U.S. production could reach 13 million to 15 million barrels per day by 2020, helping to make North America “the new Middle East.” The last year the U.S. was the world’s largest producer was 2002, after the Saudis drastically cut production because of low oil prices in the aftermath of 9/11. Since then, the Saudis and the Russians have been the world leaders. The United States will still need to import lots of oil in the years ahead. Americans use 18.7 million barrels per day. But thanks to the growth in domestic production and the improving fuel efficiency of the nation’s cars and trucks, imports could fall by half by the end of the decade. The increase in production hasn’t translated to cheaper gasoline at the pump, and prices are expected to stay high relatively high for the next few years because of growing demand for oil in developing nations and political instability in the Middle East and North Africa. Still, producing more oil domestically, and importing less, gives the economy a significant boost. The companies profiting range from independent drillers to large international oil companies such as Royal Dutch Shell, which increasingly see the U.S. as one of the most promising U.S. oil output is surging so fast that the United States could soon overtake Saudi Arabia as the world’s biggest producer. This year drillers are on track to post the biggest single year gain since 1951. (AP Photo) places to drill. Exxon Mobil agreed last month to spend $1.6 billion to increase its U.S. oil holdings. Increased drilling is driving economic growth in states such as North Dakota, Oklahoma, Wyoming, Montana and Texas, all of which have unemployment rates far below the national average of 7.8 percent. North Dakota is at 3 percent; Oklahoma, 5.2. ‘MRT3 fares P10 higher next year’ - Abaya TransCanada restarts Keystone pipeline MANILA, Philippines (October 23, 2012) - New- this year and next year, it could no longer retain the ly-appointed Transportation Secretary Joseph Emilio current subsidy for the MRT3. With a P10 increase, the maximum MRT3 fare Abaya on Monday said that the government will push through with its plan to increase the fare of the Metro will jump to P25 from the previous P15 fare from Taft to North-EDSA and vise versa. Rail Transit 3 (MRT3). Abaya explained that Abaya said in his the P25 maximum fare is still press conference since his cheaper compared to the P45 confirmation as Transporbus fare for the same route. tation secretary that MRT3 He said the government riders should expect a P10 has been subsidizing fares at the fare increase next year. MRT and the Light Rail Transit Former Transporfor 10 years now and the amount tation secretary Mar Roxas, of subsidy has already reached who now heads the DepartP75 billion. ment of the Interior and LoRoxas had also repeatcal Government, had said edly said that the fund that will that the MRT3 fare increase be freed up from the MRT3 fare may take effect January next year. The government will increase fares of the Metro increase will be used by the govAbaya said that with Rail Transit by P10 starting January 2013. (File ernment for its projects in the provinces. the government's budget for Photo) KANSAS CITY, October 23, 2012 (AP) — TransCanada has restarted the Keystone oil pipeline that carries about 590,000 barrels of crude oil each day from Canada to facilities in the Midwest. Oil began flowing again yesterday afternoon. Company spokesman Shawn Howard says the system will be operated at a slightly reduced pressure for about 24 hours. Contractual delivery levels will resume in November. TransCanada had shut down the pipeline Wednesday after tests showed possible safety issues. The company had planned to restart the pipeline Saturday. Howard blamed logistical issues for the delay, saying bad weather complicated efforts to move equipment on site and made inspections take longer. The potential problems were detected in a section of the line between Missouri and Illinois. Howard says there were no leaks and the pipeline system's integrity is sound. LAND 4 SALE - Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 1.5 Has. Orchard Farm Pagbilao, Quezon Province $1.95 per sq. meter Price negotiable Clean Title, No Tenants Interested, pls. call: Precy @ 416-655-9052 13 Philippine Courier IT BUZZ AROUND By Miguel Caducio Microsoft announced last week in San Francisco California that it was launching a new music service that offers free streaming for computers and tablets with the Windows operating system to be launched this month. The Xbox Music service will allow users to stream custom-created playlists for free, along with music subscriptions and downloads, which will be managed in the Internet cloud to enable access on tablets, PCs, phones and television. Microsoft said the new service will be “on par with iTunes,” the leading music service from Apple, with a global catalog of more than 30 million songs. But the service also will have some of the features of music services like Spotify and the Internet radio operator Pandora, along with the music store offerings of Apple and Amazon. It will begin rolling out around the world this week on Xbox 360 and later this month on Windows PCs and tablets and on mobile phones, with some free services and others that are paid. Subscriptions will cost $9.99 in the United States and 9.99 euros in Europe, according to Microsoft. Microsoft launches new music service “The launch of Xbox Music is a milestone in simplifying digital music on every type of device and on a global scale,” said Don Mattrick, president of interactive entertainment at Microsoft. “We’re breaking down the walls that fracture your music experiences today to ensure that music is better and integrated across the screens that you care about most – your tablet, PC, phone and TV.” The move comes more than a year after Microsoft pulled the plug on its Zune digital media player, its wouldbe rival to Apple’s iPod. Microsoft began producing the Zune in 2006 but it never really threatened the global dominance of the iPod from rival Apple. However, some analysts said the new service might fare better. “Because of Microsoft’s size and what appears to be a new-found ingenuity, perhaps born of a need to reinvent the company or watch it drop to the second tier of tech firms, it has made a series of huge gambles. Xbox Music is one of those,” said Douglas McIntyre at 24/7 Wall Street. “And Xbox Music may be a winner, just because the Microsoft dis- This image provided by Microsoft Corp. shows a screen image of their new service called, Xbox Music. Buyers of tablets that run Microsoft’s newest operating system, Windows 8, are in for a pleasant musical surprise: they’ll be able to handpick from a selection of millions of songs and stream them for free as long as they put up with an audio ad every 15 minutes. AP PHOTO/MICROSOFT CORP. tribution network is so very big.” McIntyre noted that Microsoft can leverage its “tens of millions” of customers with Xbox consoles for the service as well as the massive customer base of PC owners. “This is an extraordinary platform for any service, particularly if the service is free,” he said. The move comes as Microsoft launches its Windows 8 operating system on October 26 along with its new tablet computer, dubbed Surface. Microsoft is also making an aggressive push into mobile phones with its Windows Phone 8 system, which will be available on smartphones made by Nokia, HTC and others. 4500 Sheppard Avenue East Units 25 & 26 Scarborough, ON M1S 3R6 (416) 335-8555 14 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier BCBP 1st Breakfast Forum in Canada The Brotherhood of Christian Businessmen and Professionals (BCBP), a community of like-minded Christian business people and professionals whose vision is to bring Christ to the marketplace and winning the marketplace for Christ had just launched their first Breakfast Meeting in Canadian soil at the Hilton Garden Inn in Mississauga, Ontario on October 27, 2012. The organization was founded in Manila, Philippines in 1980 and now has more than 120 Breakfast Meetings in the Philippines, California, New York. October 27 is the first ever breakfast meeting of the group in Canada. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 15 Philippine Courier Entertainment Edited by: Ross D. Tierra Charice gets rave reviews for Hollywood film role MANILA (October 16, 2012) - With the recent US release of her Hollywood film “Here Comes the Boom,” Filipina singer Charice has added yet another milestone to her career as an international artist. Charice got positive feedback for her role as Malia de la Cruz—a music prodigy in the sports-comedy flick that opened on October 12. Directed by Frank Coraci and anchored by lead stars Kevin James and Salma Hayek, the film is about James’ character Scott Voss, a 42-yearold biology teacher forced to moonlight as a mixed martial arts fighter to raise money for his school’s ailing music program. In a review published on his website (www.themovieboy.com), Online Film Critics Society member Dustin Putman commended Charice’s acting: “She brings such honesty and emotion to the screen that one can’t help but care about her… Charice is a star in the making with a smile that could light up a New York City blackout.” David Germain of The Associated Press said Charice “adds adorability as a bright and earnest student.” “Here Comes” writer and producer James, who is Charice’s teacher in the film, raved about the petite Pinay’s performance of Neil Diamond’s “Holly Holy.” He told Colorado FM station Jammin’ 101.5 during the red carpet premiere in Denver: “My girl Charice rocks it. She’s unbelievable, you’ll see.” In an interview aired on the CBS talk show, “The Couch,” on October 10, Charice said her “Here Comes” stint was her “first-ever big role.” The “X Factor Philippines” judge related how nervous she was during the auditions. “They suddenly gave me the lyrics to Neil Diamond’s ‘Holly Holy,’ and I was like, ‘What’s this song? This is the end of me!’” Luckily, Charice had composed herself by the time she met the film director. “I did it; they were teary-eyed.” Asked how it felt, working with big stars like James and Hayek, CHARICE and Salma Hayek in “Here Comes the Boom” Photo from ZEIBIZ.COM Charice said: “I didn’t expect them to be that nice… and so sweet.” The 20-year-old earlier guested on big US TV programs “The Oprah Winfrey Show” and “Ellen.” She appeared in three episodes of the second season of the hit TV musical “Glee” and landed a cameo singing role in the 2009 film “Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel.” (By Allan Policarpio/Philippine Daily Inquirer) Kris shares opinion on Lucy Liu’s ‘Filipino’ Remark MANILA, Philippines (October 23, 2012) – Queen of All Media Kris Aquino has expressed disappointment over American actress Lucy Liu for the latter’s alleged “racist” comment made during a guest appearance on “The Late Night Show With David Letterman” almost two weeks ago. Aquino said in her daily morning talk show “Kris TV,” Tuesday, “Nagulat ako do’n kasi pinapanood ko siya (Liu) eh. Ine-enjoy ko siya bilang artista, so parang medyo masakit ‘di ba? Parang ang mean naman niya. Kasi, ‘di ba, parang, ba’t naman siya naglu-look down sa mga Pinoy?” It may be recalled that Liu, when asked by host Letterman if she prefers running in a machine or outdoors, said, “I run on a machine. It’s just easier for me, I think. Also if I get really dark, I’ll start to look a little Filipino. It wouldn’t match. You know what I mean? I start getting darker… you know what I mean?” What seemed like an offhand remark have sent Filipino netizens buzzing, with some branding the actress of Chinese descent as “racist” and others simply dismissing the incident as a non-issue. In any case, Liu had since apologized for her blunder not long after, telling entertainment columnist Ruben Nepales in an interview for a local paper that she had not intended to insult Filipinos --nor any ethnicity, for that matter. Aquino recognized the American actress’ apology, but nevertheless cautioned people to be mindful of what they say in front of the camera. “Mag-iingat talaga sa mga lalabas sa bibig, ‘di ba? Kasi once nasabi mo, napanood ng marami, eh lagot ka kung meron kang masamang nasabi.” (JULIEN MERCED C. MATABUENA-mb.ph.com) Kris Aquino thinks Lucy Liu had ‘looked down’ on Filipinos (File photo) CHERYL V. MARTINEZ Independent Consultant ID# 115623585 CP#4168330133 [email protected] ww.arbonne.ca 16 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 17 Philippine Courier Zeal for Fashion ‘Áng Pagbabalik ni Lolita Carbon ng ASIN in Totonto’ a big hit! By Candace David Back in the days when people would turn on to the radio or televisions for a morning talk show, drama or news to start their day my father, however, will surely listen to Filipino ditties to fill in the air. Four decades passed and yet my recollection of the 70’s - the era of Martial Law is tantamount with the memories I had with my late father (who at that time was into an entertainment business in our place in Pampanga) and his friends jamming together and enjoying the original hit songs of ASIN. Miss Lolita Carbon was my father’s favorite Pinoy contemporary singer. He lived and died an avid ASIN fan that is why I was moved in doing this piece – as a tribute to the great man that he was and to the Filipino Queen of Folk Music, Ms. Lolita Carbon who made a remarkable contribution in the Philippines’ music industry. And thanks, of course, to the affable Editor-in-Chief Mon Datol for giving me a chance The writer (small girl) is with her late Father (sitting in shorts) and some relato put pen to paper this homage on his very popular tabloid in the GTA now. By tives in this file photo. the way, The Philippine Courier and EDCILLE Productions of Mon Datol, Cecille Araneta, Eduard Que and Miguel Caducio produced the highly successful ‘Ang Pagbabalik ni Lolita Carbon ng ASIN in Toronto’ concert and Bar Tours at the GTA. Kudos to you guys! Well, they say music has the power to form a vast deal of emotions and sentiments even just in a few notes. It also arouse complicated ardent response in an individual, this holds true on every single gig done by the legendary Lolita “Nene” Carbon of ASIN with her acoustic band members Jazz Almonacid and Ammi Maranan on her ongoing bar tours every Fridays and Saturdays that started last October 12, 2012. The audience were totally entertained and taken to all their memories of travelling back in time while listening to their hit songs that had been a reflection of our culture. Avid fans, like me and my pinta associates seem not to get enough from their concert last September 29, 2012 at TICC as each of Lolita Carbon’s bar tour was jam-packed with pleased spectators. In retrospect Asin (sometimes spelled ASIN, in all capital letters) is a Pinoy rock and folk rock band from the Philippines. They were formed during the 1970s and originally known as Salt of the Earth from the song of Joan Baez, but later adopted a local name into "Asin", which means salt in the Filipino language. The group has only four members namely Mike “Nonoy” Pillora Jr., Cesar “Saro” Banares, Jr., Lolita “Nene” Carbon and Pendong Aban, Jr. while others are all session musicians. This was the first group to incorporate Filipino indigenous instruments into pop/rock music. Their first album entitled “Masdan Mo Ang Kapaligiran” (Look at your Environment) marked the birth of an alternative form of music which was different and distinct from the mainstream. Their songs conveyed a message that instilled awareness into the vast majority of Filipinos and became a rallying call for emancipation. They also studied Filipino tribal music and did what they could to be true to the origins of the music. Instead of plagiarizing the indigenous music they set about educating people about respecting the origins of the music and representing it with agreement from the tribal sources. ASIN was also important in the local politics and although they did not set out to be a political band, they reflected the political message needed for the times. This should be seen against the backdrop of martial law during the time of President Ferdinand Marcos. Occasionally their recordings were confiscated as subversive, yet, on the other hand they were invited to play at the Presidential Palace. Classic hits Some of their popular songs include the environmental song “Masdan Mo Ang Kapaligiran” (Observe the Environment), “Ang Bayan Kong Sinilangan” (The Land Where I Was Born), “Pagbabalik” (Return), Itanong mo sa mga bata” (Ask the Children), “Himig ng Pag-ibig” (Melody of Love) and “Balita” (News), this is the song where the Tagalog lyrics of Black Eyed Peas “The Apl Song” is based. Awards • Best Folksong of the Year for “Orasyon” – AWIT Awards 1984 • Best Album of the Year for “Himig ng Lahi” – AWIT Awards 1984 • Album of the Year for “Himig ng Lahi – Jingle Magazine Awards 1984 • Best Vocal Arrangement for Group in “Lupa” – Cecil Awards 1986 • Department of Environment and Natural Resources Likas Yaman Award for “Masdan and Kapaligiran” 1991 • For Lolita Carbon – Best Rock Recording for “Paraisong Liku-liko”, AWIT Awards 1990 • For Pendong Aban, Jr. – Best World Music Album for “Ang Grupong Pendong – Dito Sa Lupa” • Album – Katha Music Awards 1995 • Best Folksong for “Pagbabalik” – Aliw Awards 1979 • Nominated as Best Rock Recording for “Usok” in the 1st Cecil Awards • Best Musical Arrangement for “Dalawang Dekada ng Asin (Overture)”, AWIT Awards 2002 • Environmental-Champions,2004-DENR/WORLD BANK Publication- Environmental Monitor 2004, given June 20, 2004 Witnessing the live performance of Ms.Lolita “Nene” Carbon and her acoustic band is definitely an honor and a privilege. Most of their songs had been a part of our lives; others even grew up withthem as the sound of ASIN may not be heard from your own house but had lingered from someone else’s big boom box during those times. The tremendous nostalgic experience that each song brings still prevails and goes right straight to one’s heart. Their music is timeless as it gears towards Juan Dela Cruz’ dreams, ambitions, yearnings, miseries and social awareness that mirror our own cultureand heritage. (Ref: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asin_%28band%29) 18 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 19 Philippine Courier 20 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 21 Philippine Courier Welcome to Canada, ‘Inang’ Isabel Bachini vda de Moscare! HerdotinggranddaughtersMariaDatolͲBello(left)andRoselineDatolͲTierra(right),together withgreatgranddaughterNicoleDatolBello(2ndfromright)welcome‘InangSabel’atthe PearsonAirportOctober2whoarrivedasimmigrantwithherúnicahija’FrancesMoscareͲ Datol(2ndleft).2ndfotoatrightshowsInangSabelwithcousinTessieLagtapon(2ndright)and husbandGiting(right)andrelativecoupleJessieandLeoAgustin(standing)attheDatol residence.(PhotosbyTPC’sMondee) 22 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier “Be Careful with my Heart” beats GMA’s new morning Teleseryes ABS-CBN’s well-loved Primetanghali kilig-serye, “Be Careful With My Heart” won in national TV ratings over GMA’s two newly launched morning teleseryes, maintaining its daytime leadership in the country. Based on latest data from Kantar Media on Monday (October 22), the Jodi Sta. Maria-Richard Yap starrer scored a national TV rating of 23.1% versus the pilot episodes of "One True Love: A Second Chance" which only got 8% and “Cielo de Angelina” that only rated at 10.2%. Like her leading lady, Richard (now popularly known as ‘Sir Chief) believes that there is no problem with having competition. “I think competition is always healthy. That’s okay because we'll strive to do our best always,” he said. “But honestly, we're not really competing with anyone. We just want to make our TV viewers happy.” Catch "Be Careful With My Heart," everyday, 10:45am, before "It's Showtime" on ABS-CBN's Prime-Tanghali. Also, don't miss "Be Careful With My Heart Sabado Rewind" every Saturday, 10am, before "It's Showtime." For more updates, log on to www.abs-cbn.com, follow @becarefulheart on Twitter; and 'like' the show's official Facebook fanpage at www.facebook.com/ becarefulwithmyheartofficial. ‘Sir Chief’ Richard Yap and Jodi ‘Maya’ Sta. Maria Zsa Zsa disproves romance with Hayden MANILA, Philippines (October 25, 2012) - Zsa Zsa Padilla is rediscovering Hayden Kho, the controversial doctor turned businessman who is now her boss, having signed up as endorser of his new beauty venture. According to the recently widowed singer-actress, Kho is fun to be with. "Masarap siyang kausap because he reads a lot and I love books also. We always had the most interesting conversations together,” Padilla shared during a recent press conference. Kho, on the other hand, described Padilla in earlier interviews as "a woman of substance" and among those that he truly "admires." Not a few wags are now speculating that the mutual admiration might allow for a romantic relationship to blossom between the two. But Padilla was quick to refute such insinuations. "Open book naman 'yung mga nangyari sa akin, 'di ba? So, parang ang bilis naman [nilang] i-relate 'yun doon.” The 48-year old is referring to the recent death of his partner, the comedian Dolphy, which was followed by her being diagnosed with cancer of the kidneys, which turned out to be benign. Padilla maintains that she is not one to get into relationships with exes of her friends. Kho is the ex-boyfriend of Padilla's close pal, Vicki Belo. "Para sa akin hindi talaga, kasi personally, dahil sobrang close talaga ako kay Doktora Vicki, parang it leaves a bad taste in the mouth," she emphasized. But she added, “I don’t know. I think lang personally [ang pangit] pero… ang hirap magsalita nang tapos, 'di ba?" Padilla said she is very much aware of the hullabaloo that hounded Kho in the past, including the sex scandal videos, but just like anyone she believes that he also deserves a "second chance." "Siyempre alam natin na na-taint 'yung kanyang image because of the controversies that he went through but of course, everybody is deserving of a second chance in life, 'di ba? Dahil lahat naman ng mga tao, nagkakamali sa buhay. Kasi kilala ko siya bago 'yun nangyari. Siguro [ngayon] nagkaroon [ako] ng panibagong faith sa kanya, 'yun.” Meanwhile, Padilla says she aims to visit the tomb of her "beloved" Dolphy ahead of the throng come All Saint's Day as she is set to travel to Hong Kong with actress-TV host Kris Aquino a day prior, this, upon the latter's invitation. "Medyo mahirap [mag-decide pumunta sa Hong Kong] kasi nga favorite place 'yun ni Dolphy pero 'nung sinabi sa akin ni Kris na [Hong Kong] Disneyland sabi ko, sige." (By NR RAMOS-mb.com.ph) Zsa Zsa says she still talks to Dolphy everyday (FILE PHOTO) From FRNAO with LOVE Mr. Pidoy Pacis (head of Gawad Kalinga Canada-middle) receiving the donation from FRNAO Nurses, in order to build more houses for the poor in the Philippines, during the 6th Annual Gala was held at Holiday Inn – Woodbine held September 22, 2012. (Photo Courtesy of PPCO’s Arnel Ramos) Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 23 Philippine Courier The Tall Family celebrates Thanksgiving in a different style With their family now complete after the arrival of ‘Inang Sabel’, Ramon & Frances called on relatives and close family friends to a hearty observance of Thanksgiving Day in their simple abode in Richmond Hill and invited the legendary folk singer Lolita Carbon of ASIN and her Acoustic Band members Jazz Almonacid and Ammi Maranan, couple Eduard Que and Cecille Araneta to an early dinner of Filipino foods and delicacies. Here are some photos of the affair thru the lenses of TPC’s Mondee & LennyT. Lenny’s Day This paper’s Sports Ed and Web Administrator, Laurence Tierra, celebrated his birthday in a very simple way October 20 with his wife Yeng, daughters Iyam and Yumi, Papa, Mama and Inang Sabel at their residence in Richmond Hill. Here are some fotos of the simple gathering. 24 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Sports Edited by: Laurence Tierra It’s GTK vs Cojuangco For the POC presidency... MANILA, Philippines (October 28, 2012) – Highly controversial track and field association president Go Teng Kok beat the deadline yesterday and filed his certificate of candidacy for president of the Philippine Olympic Committee. Go’s unexpected action prevented incumbent POC president Jose ‘Peping’ Cojuangco from getting reelected for the third 4-year-term via acclamation after Cojuangco’s perceived opponent Manny V. Pangilinan decided in the last minute not to run. The PATAFA president becomes the standard bearer of the opposition that includes Manny T. Lopez, handball association’s secretary-general, who is seeking a re-election for VP, weightlifting’s Monico Puentebella, a re-electionist for the POC Chairmanship, cycling’s Bambol Tolentino, Romeo Ribano of squash and golf’s Godofredo Galindez. Running under Cojuangco’s team are Joey Romasanta, POC spokesperson, triathlon Tom Carrasco, SPECTATOR By Al Mendoza WE just lost a fifth world boxing crown. And what a way to lose. AJ Banal was slightly ahead in my scorecard when it happened: He took a painful loss to Sor Singyu of Thailand on October 21 at the Mall of Asia Arena, the state-of-the art coliseum in Pasay City by the bay which hosted its first world boxing championship. The Arena is SM’s latest architectural wonder. Jeff Tamayo of soft tennis, Julian Camacho of wushu and Prospero Pichay of chess. This will be the second time Go will be seeking the POC presidency. He was soundly trashed by Celso Dayrit when he ran in 2000. But Go has been declared personanon-grata by the POC general assembly and is considered by many in the sports community as a perennial whiner and a troublemaker. Because of his status as persona-nongrata, the POC election committee will still have to decide whether to approve his candidacy. On the other hand, Cojuangco has built a network of alliances from his two terms as POC president and his after nine rounds, only to succumb to fatigue and lost by a 10th-round TKO. All the judges’ scorecards saw Banal leading before that fateful 10th. other low blow. I was there in Cebu during the fight. My scorecard also had Banal miles ahead of Concepcion, who got battered black and blue but would simply not fall down. But I give credit to Sor. He came not only ready to fight; he also came ready to go into a bar-room brawl, if not bang it up inside a telephone booth. The Thai exhibited the uncanny ability to weather body shots and hits to the face, counterpunching extremely well. His crouching style of fighting seemed to befuddle Banal no end. In short, Sor, 23 years old like Banal, was made of rock this evening that he survived some of the meanest punches thrown at him. Thus, when Weeks stopped the fight in 1:45 of the 9th after Banal beat the count of 10, I feel the American referee did the right thing. It was thoroughly painful for Banal because the setback halted Banal’s 11-fight winning streak since 2009. And look, Banal became Sor’s 17th Filipino victim, stretching the Thai’s winning streak overall to 20 for an impressive 43-1, win-loss record, with 28 knockouts. In that bout against the Panamanian, Banal thought the fight was only for nine rounds, giving it all from Round 1 onwards. Sadly, by the 10th, his power and strength were gone. And, yes, it became extra-painful because the debacle denied Banal the chance to become the fifth Filipino to capture a world title and join reigning champions Ahas Niete, Brian Viloria, Johnriel Casimiro and, yes, Nonito Donaire Jr. Against Sor, Banal didn’t seem dogtired after eight rounds and looked like there was enough gas left in his tank, so to speak. In 2008, Banal was comfortably ahead of Panama’s Rafael Concepcion Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 clout has become even stronger with his close relationship with Philippine Sports Commission chairman Richie Garcia whose patronage as source of financial support is sought by national sports associations. Jose ‘Peping’ Cojuangco The election is scheduled on Nov. 30 at the Alabang Golf Club. (With report from Nick Giongco/ mb.com.ph) For Banal, it’s not the end of the road Concepcion’s toughness gave him the world flyweight crown, which was just an arm’s length away from Banal’s reach when disaster struck the pug from Bohol. I feel for Banal because his only loss before this also came when he appeared headed to victory four years back. Go Teng Kok He consistently threw bombs of his own that, at times, he rocked the Thai. He took hard blows, too, but he looked more impressive after fierce exchanges. Several times, in his eagerness to finish Sor for good, Banal was warned for low blows. In the sixth, referee Tony Weeks penalized Banal a point for an- Perhaps, that derailed Banal’s approach of the fight? Before getting decked a second time in the round, Banal took a flurry of blows that all the more bloodied his face—the blood oozing from his badly cut right eye as a result of an accidental head butt in the third round. Banal protested Weeks’ decision while the referee was embracing him to protect him from further harm. He cried unabashedly as Weeks led him to his corner like a loving father coming to his son’s rescue. If the loss would haunt him and cause him sleepless nights, let him be. But I know that in time, he’ll recover. Fast. Banal is a young man and, with a 28-2-1, win-loss-draw card, with 20 knockouts, it is not the end of the road for this Bukidnon-born boxer monikered “bazooka.” He just needs more time to polish his style as, at age 23, he can continue dreaming dreams that have continually eluded him all this time. To not give up is to have the heart of a champion. Ask Rey “The Force” Fortaleza, our fiercest Olympian in the Montreal Games in 1976. “Never, ever give up,” was the winning battle cry of Rey when he represented the country in many boxing events overseas. ******* PRAYERS, PRAYERS. May I reiterate my plea for you out there to continue praying for my cancer-stricken brother, Kuya Pepito (Joe to his buddies), who lives in Mississauga. Your prayers will surely mean a lot as there is no deed more powerful than a prayer. Thank you very much for your continued support. 25 Philippine Courier Donaire vs. Arce ... If the price is right MANILA, Philippines (October 23, 2012) - Unless he gets what he wants or what he deserves, Jorge Arce will not climb the ring against reigning WBO super-bantamweight king Nonito Donaire Jr. “I’m not asking for the pearls of the virgin. I’m demanding just what I think the price is worth,” said Arce, a former champion in four different weight classes. The 33-year-old Mexican, who’s been into bloody fights perhaps like no one else in boxing, will fight the red-hot Filipino champion only if the price is right. Arce told www.boxingscene. com a few days ago that he’s ready to fight anyone, including Donaire. “I am ready, as everyone knows I am ready to fight and end of the year with drums beating. I would be happy to take that fight but I hope I get the price,” he said. Arce was previously mentioned as Donaire’s opponent for last week. But it failed to push through because he didn’t like or didn’t accept what was offered him. Instead, Donaire fought Toshiaki Nishioka in Carson City, and scored a ninth-round technical knockout. There are many fights to choose from for Donaire, a certified superstar, and they include Abner Mares, Guillermo Rigondeaux or Anselmo Moreno. But as of now, he’s looking at Arce. It will be great to put up the Donaire-Arce fight and even greater The Game of My Life Jorge Arce for fight fans to see it. It’ll be a sure hit and if staged in Mexico where Arce has a tremendous following. Donaire, who earned around $800,000 for the Nishioka fight, told Pinoy scribes over the weekend that he likes Arce because the Mexican’s style is tailor-made for me. The feeling is mutual. “I’m not impressed (with Donaire). He’s not the Nonito Donaire, Jr. monster they believe he is. What happens is that (his opponents) have too much respect they pull punches, start to survive and allow him to come in,” Arce said. “I think Donaire has faced fighters who are afraid. I’m not going to have any respect,” the Mexican matador who has won world titles in the light-fly, super-fly, bantam and super- bantam told www.boxingscene.com <http://www.boxingscene.com> . Bob Arum of Top Rank wants Dec. 15 for the Donaire-Arce fight in Mexico City or just a week after Manny Pacquiao faces Juan Manuel Marquez in Las Vegas. The announcement may come anytime this week. A debt to David Stern By Bill Velasco NBA Commissioner David Stern has announced that he will be stepping down from running league operations on Feb. 1, 2014 or 30 years to the day after taking the job. He leaves the world’s most popular basketball league in great shape, and also at a crossroads. To his credit, Stern was able to rein in even the team owners and get most of them to think league first. He handled expansions into middle-sized markets well, and ran what has been considered along with NASCAR as the best business model for professional sports. Comparatively, the NBA has had far fewer controversies than other professional sports leagues in the US. Stern also had a lot going for him. He learned the ropes as part of the league’s legal team. Beyond that, he was among the second-generation New York lawyers of European descent who took on the toughest cases and mastered hostile takeovers decades before they became the business 26 norm. Once considered the dirtiest job in the legal profession, the hostile takeover became the forte of European immigrant (often Jewish) lawyers. So he was well-suited to his job. In the late 1970’s and early 1980’s, the NBA had major image problems, rumors of drug use, and was not a TV ratings bonanza. But Stern wisely built upon the talents and rivalry of players like Larry Bird and Magic Johnson, and saw the marketing potential of superstars like Michael Jordan. The emergence of cable television and new media became his tool for transforming the league from a tape-delayed afterthought to a billiondollar product. The exploration into China, beginning with tentative visits by the Mike Fratello-era Atlanta Hawks and culminating with the first NBA China Games in Shanghai and Beijing in 2004 were another Stern brainchild. The first NBA China Games took two years to plan and involved over 300 people traveling on two char- tered jets. It has since become a regular league fare. Of course, there have also been major challenges. Some players aren’t able to handle success and get into trouble. But very few of those misadventures get into the spotlight of mainstream media, and that is no accident. The league has a powerful legal team built to protect its own. Also, an abundance of foreign talent has found its way into the NBA, with close to a hundred non-Americans suiting up for league play last season. The game has evolved, but the quality has not suffered. Stern has a crusade against trends and habits that dilute the beauty of the game. His latest pet peeve: flopping. The NBA has many things going for it, including a strong name that always goes above even the biggest sponsor’s. To its credit, the players’ participation in amateur play in the Olympics helped the league’s credibility, even when their performances were less than perfect. Other countries no longer fear the NBA All-Stars, but that’s also because they have NBA All-Stars of their own. The league has grown so much that it now literally competes with itself in that regard. Stern has also put his foot down in those thorny collective bargaining agreements. He designed the original one that propelled the NBA to prosperity. But when the players got too demanding, he told them to accept the offer on the table, or the next one would be even smaller. That’s one reason why last season finally got off the ground. The NBA has many challenges, more globalization among them. They are also looking at putting advertising on jerseys for the first time in 2013-2014. New products are being rolled out each season. The possibility of having more teams based overseas is under study. But one thing is for certain, the league would never have reached this level if not for David Stern. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier By Dong Secuya Philboxing.com MANILA, Philippines - No doubt AJ 'Bazooka' Banal is one of the most talented fighters to ever grace the Philippine boxing scene. He cruised to victory against most of his opponents. Yet when he fought against championship caliber rivals, he failed. Twice he attempted and twice he failed. In his fight against Rafael Concepcion of Panama for the WBA Interim Flyweight Title on July 26, 2008, Banal was expected to take a world title in his first attempt. And in the first half of that fight, with Concepcion already nursing a broken nose from the 4th round onwards, it appeared that Banal was on the way of capturing his first world title. But the 2nd half of the fight told a different story. When the Panamanian slugger be- IT'S ALL ABOUT HEART against WBO #2 contender Pungluang Sor Singyu of Thailand at the newly minted Mall of Asia Arena in Manila, Banal, who was fighting Pungluang for the vacant WBO bantamweight title, also dominated the first half of the fight. Yet when Pungluang began to turn the tide around and hurt Banal with his crisp overhand counters, Banal faded and finally went down in the 9th round, who appeared badly hurt from a Punluang right straight. In the Concepcion fight, Banal's demise was blamed on several factors, including lack of stamina, too young and inexperienced, hometown pressure, etc. However, after Saturday's fight against Pungluang, it is clear right now that when Banal gets hurt, when he is brought into deeper this is the main difference between a great fighter and an ordinary one. We don't have to go very far 1998, Sasakul was schooling Pacquiao the whole fight but Pacquiao dug deep and eventually knocked out Sasakul in the 8th round. Pacquiao was for a trilogy that ranked as one of the great trilogies in boxing. Just two Saturday's ago, Bran- Banal (L) comforted by Donaire after Banal was TKO'd by Pungluang. Banal's entrance during his fight with Pungluang last Saturday. gan to hurt him, Banal faded and finally succumbed to the onslaught and went to kiss the canvas in the 10th round. During last Saturday's fight and uncharted waters by his opponent, he just could not withstand the pressure. It all boils down to heart or lack of it. And in many cases, to find the perfect example. When the then unknown Manny Pacquiao fought Thailand's Chachai Sasakul for the WBC flyweight title at the opponent's territory on Dec. 12, bleeding badly due to the cut he sustained from a head butt against Erik Morales during their first fight. Outboxed and his vision impaired, Pacquiao fought on until the final bell where it seemed only his big fighting heart carried him through. Although he lost the fight, Pacquiao earned two more fights against Morales don Rios was outscored by Mike Alvardo towards the middle rounds in a barnburner of a fight and Rios appeared headed to his first defeat. But it was Rios' warrior heart that carried him through that finally overpowered Alvarado in the 7th round. WBO Promoter of the Year 2012 67TH BIRTHDAY - Isaias Borja Beltran, Jr. (2nd from right) is shown in photo together with his wife Agnes (right), Pepe and Anel Berja, during the celebration of his (Beltran) 67th birthday on September 30, 2012 held at the McLean Community Centre, 95 Magill Drive, Ajax, Ontario, Canada. (St. Jamestown News Service, Manny Papa) Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 HOLLYWOOD, FL -- ALA Promotions president Michael Aldeguer (2nd from left) receives the 'WBO International Promoter of the Year' award Thursday from WBO officials headed by its president Francisco 'Paco' Valcarcel (C) and Vice-President for Asia-Pacific region Leon Panoncillo (2nd from right) during the 25th WBO Silver Jubilee Conventionheld at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. (Photo by Dong SecuyaPhilBoxing.com) 27 Philippine Courier Community Potpourri Brampton Chapter is Host… The 13th Commanders' Ball at KCCC, Mississauga a huge success Sir Dr. Romy Sinajon, KCR, of Brampton Chapter, hosted the 13th Rizal Commanders' Ball held at the Kalayaan Cultural Community Center (KCCC) , Mississauga, Ontario, Canada on October 20, 2012. This event was graced by Lady Hon. Junever Mahilum-West, Consul General of the Philippines - Toronto. She inducted the incoming Commanders, Deputy Commanders and the Canada Region Officers for the Rizalian Year 2012-2014. Photo at left are: Lady Bing Marasigan, Madeleine Ong, Lady Leah Magsino, Lady Irene Guzman, Lady Junever Mahilum-West, Lady Julie Javier, Lady Clarita Nazario, Sir George R. Poblete, Lady Odette Virey and Lady Dolly Poblete. Photo below: Consul General Lady Junever Mahilum-West inducting the Region Commanders and Council officers. Photo atop left shows Con GenHon. Junever Mahilum-West with the Rizal Region Officers who supported the 13th Commanders' Ball. They are: L>R Sir Ed Prillo, KGOR, Host Commander Sir Dr. Romy Sinajon, KCR, Sir George R. Poblete, KGOR and Sir Jaime T. Marasigan, KGOR. The 13th Rizal Commanders' Ball was celebrated to honor the active members in the Order of the Knights of Rizal in Canada who contributed to the success of the Rizal projects during the past year. Canada Region also recognized the Ladies and friends, who supported and gave honor to the Order. Major honorees are: Sir Hon. Tobias "Jun" Enverga, Jr., KCR First Filipino - Canadian Senator in Canada, a former Commander of Dimasalang Chapter and former Deputy Commander of Central Canada Area. Rizal Canada is proud of his appointment. (photo at right shows his wife Lady Rosemer Enverga who received his awards from Canada Region and Supreme Commander). Sir Dr. Romy Sinajon,KCR, with Lady Virgie Sinajon, (photo at left) received an Award of Excellence plaque from Lady Con Gen Junever Mahilum-West, Region Commander Sir George R. Poblete, KGOR, and Region Deputy Commander Sir Jaime Marasigan, KGOR Sir Jojo Taduran, KCR and Sir Mario Alpuerto, KCR received the Rizal Distininguished Service Medal and a certificate, for their excellent work that contributed to the success of the Order of Rizal in Canada. Sir Jojo Taduran (photo at left with wife Lady Fe Taduran) and Sir Mario Alpuerto (photo at right with Sir Dr. Romy Sinajon KCR, , Lady Hon. Junever and Sir George R. Poblete, KGOR. From Montreal: Sir Rey & Esphie Balansi, Sir Dario & Claire Boco and Sir James & Rose de la Paz. Knights and Ladies with Hon. Junever Mahilum-West Brampton Chapter Windsor Chapter Toronto, Dimasalang, Markham, Scarborough, Mississauga, Chapter Knights & Ladies with Hon. Junever Mahilum-West The 13th Commanders' Ball, hosted by Brampton Chapter was a success. Our thanks to their Steering Committee of Sir Dr. Romy Sinajon, KCR, Sir Tolentino Arellano, KOR, Sir Delfin Palileo, KCR, Sir Joel Baile, KOR, Sir Don Quimno, KOR, Sir Dr. Pierre Sinajon, KR, Sir Carlo Arellano, KR, Sir Custer Boone, KR, Sir Ramon Maravillas, KR and their ladies who efficiently managed this celebration. We thank also the Toronto Chapter Knights and Ladies for their full support to the Region, to the Winnipeg Ladies , Windsor Knights and Ladies, and the Montreal Knights and Ladies who came long way to participate in this event. The full support of Canada Region Council, the Kababaihang Rizalista, Aspirations of Rizal, the Ladies of the Knights of Rizal and participation of the Mississauga , Dimasalang, Markham and Scarborough Chapter all contributed to the success to this celebration. Special Thanks to the Souvenir Program advertisers and the friends of the Knights and Ladies who celebrated with this Canada Region 13th Commanders Ball. 28 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier ‘Scary,’ Funny & Memorable Halloween Party for Richmond Hillers Consul General Junever Mahilum-West presided over the oath of Dual Citizenship for eight Filipino-Canadians and explained the benefits of regaining the Filipino citizenship during the annual Halloween Party of the Filipino Association of Richmond Hill (FARH) held at the Masonic Hall-Richmond Hill located at the corner of Pugsley and Crosby Sts., Richmond Hill. FARH President Miguel Caducio also welcomed guests that included Richmond Hill MPP Dr. Reza Moridi, who likewise congratulated the organization for its continuing program of uniting the Filipino community thru this kind of gathering. Rev. Dante Coloma said the invocation, Nicole Datol Bello and Shaira provided the entertainment side of the affair, the most successful Halloween Party so far FARH hosted with no less than 150 attendees. (Photos courtesy of TPC’s Mondee & Cynthia Caducio) Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 29 Philippine Courier Joke Time Ni Edgar Bello Virgin pa Babae: Dahan-dahan lang, ang bilis mo naman. Lalaki: Bakit ang hirap napakasikip ng ano mo. Wow! virgin ka pa ata ah! Babae: E, di mo kasi hinubad iyong stocking ko. ***** Blood type Vampire 1: Namumutla ka lalo a, may sakit ka ba? Vampire 2: Oo, iyong nasipsip ko may severe anemia pala kaya nahawaan tuloy ako. Vampire 1: E, papano iyan? Vampire 2: Punta ako sa hospital, magpapaabono ako ng dugo. Vampire 1: Ano ba iyong type ng dugo mo, A, B , O? Vampire 2: Di ako sure, basta nasa A up to Z iyon. ***** Magpapakasal Bobby: Pakasal na tayo? Girlie: Sige Bobby: San mo gusto? Sa pari ‘o sa mayor? Girlie: Syempre sayo! Tangang to.. nirereto pa ako sa iba. ***** Atras ka na lang Pasahero: Mang driver bayad ko po 20 pesos Driver: Aba, kulang to dahil pang 10 kilometro lang ang binayad mo, 20 kilometros na itong bababaan mo. Pasahero: Ganon po ba? Sorry po! Kung pwede po paki-atrasan mo na lang po ako ng 10 kilometro para tama lng ang bayad ko. Driver: Ngek! ***** 69 vs 6.9 Titser: Ano ang pinagkaiba ng 69 sa 6.9? Juan: Ma'am pareho lang po sila ng position kaya lang mas kadiri ang 6.9 kasi may period! ***** BJ Anak: Dad! Naka experience na ako ng blowjob! Yahoo!!! Dad: Wow! Anak! Binata ka na!!! Ano ang feeling? Anak: Ang sakit po sa panga!!!' ***** GROUP STUDY Dad: Hoy! baket ka na naman ginabing umuwi? Isang linggo ka ng umuuwi ng alas-dose ng hatinggabi. Hindi na tama yang ginagawa mo! Anak: Dad naman! Nag-group study lang po kami. Exam na po namin bukas eh. Dad: Group Study ka dyan! KINDER ka pa lang! Batukan kita jan, eh! ***** Exam Daddy: Anak kapag bumagsak ka sa exam mo wag na wag mo na akong tatawaging daddy,tatay,papa basta kahit kailan!! Anak: Opo, Daddy (Pagkatapos ng exam) Anak: (nag-iisip) Naku! Anu kaya sasabihin ko kay daddy Daddy: Anak kamusta ang exam mo? Anak: Ok, lang naman PAREKO. ***** Taxi Pasahero: Para ho!!!!!! Driver: Bababa ka?!!!! Pasahero: Ay hindi, tataas!!! ,May second floor ba?!!! ***** 89 to 90 Makalipas ang ilang araw pagkatapos ng final exam Teacher: Eto na ang inyung mga pagsusulit.. Teacher: 1 only got 89 over 90 Teacher: Only Pedro got 89 Pedro: Wooo!!! (nagsisigaw) hindi pala kayu nag-aaral eh!! mga weak kayu! Teacher: The rest got 90..! 30 ***** spell it! Apo: Look at those boats lolo! Lolo: Amazing di'ba iho. They are called yachts.. Apo: Yachts?! How do you spell it lolo? Lolo: You're right iho, those are boats. Michael’s 21st candles The only child of Miguel & Cynthia Caducio has turned out to be a very refined young man as years passed by and as Michael celebrated his 21st birthday October 21, the doting parents made the most of it for their beloved son and hosted a party and invited their kin, close family friends and colleagues, including their special guests – ASIN’s Lolita CARBON AND HER Acoustic band members Jazz Almonacid and Ammi Maranan – to Michael and her other guests’ surprise and delight. Here are some photos of the party courtesy of the Caducios. ***** Cigar SALESGIRL: Sir, you can't smoke here. CUSTOMER: But I bought these cigars from your store. SALESGIRL: We also sell condoms, but it doesn't mean you can fuck here! ***** Eroplano Stewardess: (Trying to get food tray) Are you done sir? Juan: No I'm Juan....... Stewardess: I mean to say, are you finish? Juan: No I'm Filipino Stewardess: I mean to say, are you through? Juan: What do you see to me I'm false? bwahahahahahahahahaha..... ***** Walang Preno Eksena sa auto supply Mr : Boy naubusan ng break fluid kotse ko, bigyan mo nga ako ng dalawang piraso, Boy : Eh bosing isang piraso lang ok na yan sa kotse mo, bakit dalawa pa kukunin mo? Mr : OO alam ko yan, yong isa para sa kotse ko, yong ikalawa, ipapainom ko dito sa Mrs ko, kanina pa walang preno ang bigbig nyan sa ka sesermon sakin, baka sakaling huminto na. ***** Marangal Ang Mag Sasaka BF: Kakaasar talaga! Sarap sapakin nung nakasalubong natin kanina. GF: Bakit? Ano bang nangyari? BF: Sabihan ba namn ako na muka akong magsasaka pag kasama kita! GF: Ok alng un! At least marangal ang magsasaka, bakit nya naman nasabi un? BF: Kasi raw mukhang kalabaw daw ang kasama ko! GF: Ganun!!! Asan ung hayop na yun! papatayin ko lang! ***** Testigo Isang tumistigo sa nangyaring krimen..... PULIS: Nakita mo ba ang pangyayari? TESTIGO: Opo sir nakita ko pong lahat PULIS: Anong baril ang ginamit sa pagpatay? TESTIGO: Sir di ko po alam ang tawag pero sir ano pong tawag sa baril nyo? PULIS: Ah! ito ba 45 ang tawag d2. TESTIGO: Sir medyo mahaba po baril nyo, baka 46 or 47 po yun... ***** SAYAD Isang pasyente ang dumating sa klinika ni Doctor Paking. TORKO: "Doctor, natatandaan n'yo pa ba ako?" DOCTOR: "Parang nakita na kita." TORKO: "Ako ho iyong pasyente ninyo last year." DOCTOR: "Ikaw nga! Ano ba ang maipaglilingkod ko?" TORKO: "Itatanong ko ho sana sa inyo kung puwede na akong maligo!" ***** PSYCHOTHERAPIST BOOK JUAN @ the library: Juan: I want to borrow the book entitled, "Psycho the rapist" The librarian searched for almost 2 hrs. And then came back, slaps Juan and says., Librarian: "IDIOT! The book's title is "Psychotherapist Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Metro Edited by: Maria Isabelle D. Bello Must undergo heart surgery to live... Crisha needs help ...12-year-old Bicolana has congenital heart disease TORONTO - The Canadian Aid and Relief Project Philippines (CARP) is appealing to everyone to help provide financial aid to the Bermillo family of Camarines Sur which is on a mission to obtain life-saving medical procedures for one of their children, Crisha Kaye Bermillo. Diagnosed with congenital heart disease when she was 6 years old, Crisha Kaye was declared to be in dire need of immediate heart surgery by the hospital in Naga City, Camarines Sur. The cost of the surgery, however, is much beyond the collective means of her parents, relatives, and friends. Not even the local social work office has the budget to help. Nolito and Jona Bermillo, Crisha’s father and mother, survive on Nolito’s meager salary of 7 dollars per day to feed their family of six which include Crisha’s 3 siblings, all under the age of 16. Nolito Bermillo works as a construction labourer in faraway Naga City. Whatever remains of the $7.00 per day after meals and transportation could hardly cover the basic necessities, let alone save for a major heart operation. Hope came to the Bermillo family when the medical mission sponsored by the Canadian Aid and Relief Project headed by its founding President Dr. Francisco Portugal, came to Milaor, an area several kilometers from the village of Borongborongan where the Bermillos live in a shack, in January 16, 2010. Maria Ondis, of Milaor’s Social Welfare and Development, stated in her social case study, “the benevolence of those concerned” could spell Crisha’s survival. The family, even without this medical condition, is already in economic crisis, according to Ms. Ondis. CARP, thru Dr. Portugal, applied to the Herbie Fund at the Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto to acquire much needed assistance for Crisha. The application, however, was denied due to eligibility requirements which precluded children whose home countries had the facilities to provide the requested operation. Dr. Jean Villareal of the Philippine Heart Center in Manila stated that the operation would cost ₱500,000, or approximately $13,000. Adding the cost of the family’s transportation, extended lodging, and meals will increase the estimated expenses. Necessary follow up visits to physicians and to the medical center magnify the potential costs further. CARP is appealing to every Filipino in Canada donate even a little Dr. Francisco Portugal amount to raise CARP Founding President funds for Crisha’s nadian volunteers with the assistance of lifesaving surgery scheduled for January 2013. Donations local doctors and nurses. CARP is headed by community can be sent to the CARP office at 33 Howard Street, Toronto, Ontario M4X leaders including: Dr. Francisco Portugal 1J6 or deposited through TD Canada as President, Edgar Adan as Executive Trust at Account Number 1168-0519- Director, Minerva Garcia as Treasurer, and Board of Directors: Dr. Rudy Gal5217507. CARP is a non-profit organization lardo, Dr. Jorge Jose, Belle Tumbokon, focused on providing medical, dental, Rose Cruz, Verth Bugtong, Millet Rabaand optical assistance to poverty stricken nillo, Ores Ting, Ray Sunga, Glen Cudia, people and relief aid to calamity victims Juancho and Irene de los Santos, Bert in the Philippines. These missions are Daan, Quentin Palisoc, Efren Atienza, conducted by a group of Canadian doc- Peter Tenorio, and other community tors, other health practitioners, and Ca- members. Philippines has a new cardinal MANILA October 25, 2012 (AP) Pope Benedict XVI has added Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle and five other prelates to the ranks of cardinals who will elect his successor. Benedict made the surprise announcement during his weekly general audience in the Vatican Wednesday and said the new cardinals would be elevated at a consistory on Nov. 24. The nominations help even out the geographic distribution of cardinals, which had tilted heavily toward Italy, according to the Associated Press. Aside from Tagle, the other new cardinals are Msgr. James Harvey, the American prefect of the Pope’s household; Archbishop of Abuja, Nigeria, John Olorunfemi Onaiyekan; Archbishop of Bogota, Colombia, Ruben Salazar Gomez; Patriarch of Antioch of the Maronites in Lebanon Bechara Boutros Rai; and the Major Archbishop of the Trivandrum of the Siro-Malankaresi in India Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal. Tagle becomes the Philippines’ seventh cardinal, following Cardinals Gaudencio Rosales, Jose Sanchez, Ricardo Vidal, Jaime Sin, Julio Rosales and Rufino Santos. Tagle, 55, is currently in Rome for the synod of bishops on the new evangelization. While his fellow Filipino bishops did not vote for Tagle as one of their representatives to the synod, the Pope named him a member of the gathering and even appointed him vice president of the commission that will craft its final message. Tagle and Lingayen-Dagupan Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 respect for every Archbishop Socrates human person,” Villegas have caught adding that Jesus the attention of inhad defended the ternational Vatican dignity of all peowatchers for their pleas ple, “in particular at the synod for a new those neglected evangelization for the and despised by the Church to be humble world.” if it were to win new “The Church converts. must discover the Writing on power of silence. the National Catholic Confronted with Reporter website, rethe sorrows, doubts nowned senior CNN and uncertainties Vatican analyst John of people, she canAllen Jr. said the internot pretend to give ventions of Tagle and easy solutions. In Villegas on Oct. 8 were Jesus, silence beat that time among the comes the way of “most compact as well attentive listenas the most distinctive” ing, compassion among those made by Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle and prayer. It is Church leaders attendthe way to truth,” ing the synod. Tagle urged the Church to “learn Tagle said. “The seemingly indifferent humility from Jesus” and “discover the and aimless societies of our time are earpower of silence.” Villegas called on the Catholic nestly looking for God. The Church’s huhierarchy to “shun arrogance, hypoc- mility, respectfulness and silence might risy and bigotry” and “punish the errant reveal more clearly the face of God in Jeamong us instead of covering up our own sus. The world takes delight in a simple witness to Jesus—meek and humble of mistakes.” “The Church must learn humility heart,” he added. Allen quoted Irish theologian from Jesus. God’s power and might appears in the self-emptying of the Son, in Eamonn Conway, who is among the the love that is crucified but truly saves expert advisers at the synod, as saying because it is emptied of self for the sake that Tagle’s intervention “had a certain of others,” Tagle said in his intervention. resonance” in the synod hall, “meaning The 55-year-old prelate said people were favorably taken by it.” Allen, who last year tagged the the Church was called “to follow Jesus’ Manila archbishop as a possible papal contender, said Tagle was “widely considered a rising star among Asian bishops.” The Catholic Church, led by Cardinal Sin, was instrumental in the overthrow of the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos in 1986 and the presidency of actor-turned politician Joseph Estrada in 2001. But since then, the Vatican has been trying to tone down the Church’s political activism in the Philippines since that might have a negative impact on Catholic missionary efforts in neighboring countries. The synod, which ends on Oct 28, brings together 262 select Church leaders, most of them bishops, from across the globe. Of this number, 182 were elected by episcopal conferences and by the Union of Superior Generals of religious congregations. Forty other prelates were personally named by Pope Benedict. However, Tagle has since said that he does not subscribe to the belief that the Second Vatican Council was a “rupture” in Catholic tradition, a view attributed to the School of Bologna. This view has been roundly criticized by conservative Catholics, including Benedict. “(Tagle)… at the previous two synods, when he was bishop of Imus, had been elected by his confreres, while now it was the Pope who had to fish him out again,” Magister wrote in his blog www.chiesa.espressonline.it (with report from Philip C. Tubeza/Philippine Daily Inquirer) 31 Philippine Courier Tarlac Society of Ontario – Gala Night!! By Ores Ting The commitment and dedication of the officers and supporters to give the best proved to be the key in making an evening to remember!! Guests and friends dined and danced at Tarlac Society of Ontario’s gala night held October 12, 2012 at Don Valley Hotel in Toronto. Feasting on delicious stuff chicken and a platter of fruits and sweets dessert, Momentum Sounds, the DJ, enticed the guests with reverberating music to groove, swing, and kick their heels to everyone’s delight! Welcoming the guests, TSO president Ores Ting, expressed her joy to see and meet Tarlaquenos, community leaders, old friends and supporters; assured them it will be an evening of fun, dancing, prizes and enjoyment. But what touched everyone’s heart was what they heard, “gagapang ako, mati-tiis ko ang sakit para sa gabing ito dahil ako a Tarlaqueno”, Jess Meneses, past TSO president and adviser, delivering his inspiration message in spite of his illness and aching back. He continued, “The challenges are there, and when faced with nowhere to turn…we begin to be strong, determined, and never give up. … a fair share of blessings with my wonderful wife, families, and most importantly friends like you, made me a more enlightened soul for which I appreciate each and every moment of the day”. How inspiring, indeed!! Dr. Francisco Portugal, CARP founding president, spoke on the importance of Medical mission organized by various community organizations here in Toronto. He said, “Our kababayans living in remote areas have no access to hospitals or medications. Last year, our volunteer doctors, nurses, and dentists joined our medical mission to Mt. Dueg, Tarlac, to help the AETAS and needy families requiring medical and dental treatments. A long tiring trip but worth it! Medical Mission for 2013 will be in Batangas and Nueva Ecija. Entertainment for the evening was Jess Carlos’ pantomime: acting out as Ores explained how easy learning “Tagalog” with just the word “Ba”. Wow! A star is born.! The fun and highlight of the evening were the give-away multi-colored pepper potted plants donated by Mia Rivera. When eaten have a Viagra-effect kuno (yes.. for those who believe earth is flat) ……Eddie Lee, Atin Ito publisher and Ruben Cusipag, Balita publisher both got one. Beaming with glee and joy were their wives: Marita and Tess!!! Outgoing president, Conrad Agustin, expressed on his closing remarks, that through continuous support and dedication, Tarlaquenos will always remain strong and united. He is honored to serve as president of TSO and will continue to give his time and energy to the organization. TSO Officers for 2012-2014: Ores M. Ting, President, Antonio Espinosa, Vice President, Tess Meneses, Secretary, Adela Agustin, P.R.O., Leoncia Guiao and Ligaya Espinosa, Support Assistant, Jess Meneses and Conrad Agustin, Advisers. For membership and information, call: 416-546-9391 L-R: Vhert Bugtong, Ores M. Ting, TSO President; Marita Lee. Seated: Tess and Ruben Cusipag, Balita publisher. Special message given by Dr. F. Portugal Seated: L-R: Norma Salonga, Vi Deidre Man- Supporters of Tarlac are: Naty and Nestor Gandoza, Sheithorne, Tess Salonga. Standing: Laila Dagher, la and Chito Deluna and guests joined the fun and dancLigaya Espinosa, Antonio Espinosa, TSO Vice ing at the gala night. Prersident. Tarlac Society of Ontario Gala Night with friends and supporters: seated (L-R) Eddie Lee, Atin Ito Publisher, Jess Meneses, TSO Advisor. Standing: (L-R) Tess Meneses, Secretary, Ores Ting, TSO Pres. Totoy and Erly Valera, Marita Lee The three handsome, debonair, gentlemen: L-R: Jess Carlos, Leanne and dad Antonio Espinosa TSO vice; and Le- Ageing gracefully are former Folklorico Filipino dancers: L -R: Eleanor Reyes, Fred DiAntos, Olive Galang and Ores Ting, TSO PresiConrad Agustin, TSO past president, and Quentin Palisoc oncia Guiao dent Pangasinan. 32 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Sen. Jun Enverga is guest of honor ... Maharlika Awards 2012 in Vancouver BURNABY, B.C. - Senator Tobias Enverga, Jr. praised the important roles of the Filipino-Canadians in the furtherance of good relationship between the Philippines and Canada where thousands of skilled Filipino workers and professionals continue to come, live and work in this country during the ‘Maharlika Awards 2012’ held October 20, 2012 at the Delta Burnaby Hotel & Conference Centre this City. Enverga, the first Filipino appointed to the Canadian Senate, also thanked the Filipino community in backing him up achieve this government position and vowed to do his best to live up to the high expectation of everyone who supported him in his governmental career. The Senator, together with Maharlika Awards 2012 organizing committee chair Rey Fortaleza, then awarded outstanding Filipinos, Groups and Associations with their respective Trophies made of Glass, after Fortaleza and some of the affair’s officials said their respective speeches. Here are some photos of the event courtesy of Angelo Signos and Reyfort Media Group. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 33 Philippine Courier The Good Drive By Ron delos Reyes Malaya Batangas Racing Circuit at Barangay Maligaya in Rosario, Batangas is a permanent racing circuit track completed in 1996. It has been a venue of various car and motorcycle competitions and test drive events of car manufacturers. The BRC, as referred to by race enthusiasts, is a 3.5-km long, 15-meter wide track that has hosted the Formula Toyota, National Touring Car Races, Asian Formula 3, Race of Champions, the Tuason Racing School races. and the Ducati Cup, among others. There is no speed limit at BRC and the driver decides which speed is safe for him and the car he drives. That’s why it is also popular with amateur race drivers who wish to test their driving skills and test their machines to the limits especially on weekends. Tuason Racing School, established in 1999, is the first and the longest professional racing school in the country. Now on its 13th year, TRS has become one of the premier racing schools in Asia, with students coming from different parts of the world. Headed by race driver and professional instructor JP Tuason, TRS aims to provide a complete ladder in motorsports and drive training. TRS also prioritizes the provision of First-ever fun run on a car race track proper safety equipment, intensive training regarding safety protocols and responsible race driving and the efficient use of a car’s features. It also runs the Driver Development Academy which focuses on educating Filipino motorists in partnership with different motoring agencies in the country and abroad. Auto Review, meantime, is a weekly motoring show that first went on the air in May 1994. It covers almost anything about cars, motorsports and travel adventures. Some of its most memorable coverages include the test drive of the Popemobile (1995) before it was turned over to the Archbishop’s Palace, the 17-day Australian Safari (1997) and the climb at Ayer’s Rock in Alice Springs, the Tokyo, Detroit, Melbourne and Bangkok motorshows, Rainforest Challenge in Malaysia and the Formula 1 Grand Prix in Sepang, Melbourne and Shanghai and hundreds of local car test drive adventures including those of Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Toyota, Ford, Honda, Kia and Nissan. It is a recipient of at least 12 motoring journalism awards. In 2004, the show organized the first Auto Review Run for Road Safety in support of the World Health Organi- zation’s ‘Road Safety is No Accident’ campaign held at the CCP Complex in Pasay City. This was followed by similar runs in 2007 and 2010 at Bonifacio Global City and 2009 at McKinley Hill in Taguig and in Davao City. Auto Review also organized the run to launch the United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety May of last year and the second year of the run this year. With a common advocacy of promoting road safety and courtesy, TRS, BRC and Auto Review are working together to stage the first ever run on the race track This Sunday (Oct 28) at BRC starting at 6 in the morning. Well, we used to do walkthroughs when we had our media competitions before the start of each race so we could familiarize ourselves with the course which usually was only a portion of the race track. But this will be the first time that a race track will be used for a running event. With a number of fun runs and foot races held every, this new concept is considered unique and instantly gives a new character from the common road and outdoor running. If a driver is said to release all his burst of speed within the strict and safe confines of a race race track, the same can be said of a runner or even a pedestrian who can run or walk without the limits of traffic, intersections and other obstacles. The event hopes to attract running enthusiasts and road safety advocates from Batangas and other South Luzon provinces. Registration is going on at the Rosario, Batangas municipal Hall care of Teddy Lacerna of the Mayor’s Office and at No. 5 Agusan St., Sta. Mesa Heights Quezon City. On-site registration will be accepted before the 6 a.m. start for the 3-km and 6-km categories. BRC is about 2.5 hrs drive from Manila and is 30 minutes from Lipa City. From the main highway in Rosario, there is a 3-km access road to the BRC. For inquires, please call 7420283, 7407074 or 09178231298. The event will be followed by a road safety quiz and brief seminar, awarding of trophies and raffle of prizes. Thanks to Toyota, Mitsubishi, Bridgestone, AGC Philippines and Isuzu for the support. Meanwhile, TRS’ Philippine Festival of Motorsports immediately follows after the last runner has finished the foot race. *** That was a very challenging test drive we had with Isuzu last week in the Bicol Region using the 2013 Isuzu Alterra Urban Cruiser X highlighted by the drive on the rough slopes of Mt. Mayon and the trek on the hardened and dangerous lava area of the volcano. More on this in our column next week. *** It seems like the action and adventure-filled October will be challenged in the coming month as Toyota stages a test drive of all its new models launched this year in Baguio and La Union with two rounds of golf at Camp John Hay and at Thunderbird Resort on November 6- 8. BMW will also have its own golf tournament at Sta. Elena in November. *** Honda Cars Philippines has also broken its silence after the last Philippine International Motorshow with a test drive of all its new vehicles from Manila to Tuguegarao and Laoag in the North. The schedules are really tight but test drives spiced up with adventures and games are always welcome. Double cheers for Couple Bro. Louie and Tess on their birthday! October birthday celebrants, Tess and Bro. Louie, jointly celebrated their birthdays on October 14, 2012 with their circle of friends. 34 Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier On The Red Carpet By Miss Rubi Talavera Yes, that’s right, we are re-naming our monthly column and calling it “On the Red Carpet”…. We want to roll out the red carpet for you, anytime, anywhere, anyplace! And starting this month, we will do just that. You see, to us, you are very special, and you are the reason we are here. You, our readers! Our friends. Keep sending us your pictures and telling us about your events. Tess Torres Fernandez’s Birthday Party This month, we start rolling out the Red Carpet for our good friend, casino classmate, line dancing partner and karaoke singing barkada, Tess Fernandez. She celebrated her 65th birthday at her posh party room at her condominium in Scarborough some two weeks ago. Seventy five people showed up, (the maximum allowed at her condo) and included the newly appointed Senator and his wife. Re-named, Re-designed, Re-defined! Jun and Rosemer Enverga took time out of their busy schedule to drop in on their long standing friend, Tess. And so many well wishers jumped in to give congratulatory hugs to the new Senator. Thank you, Tess, for inviting us. It was great to meet your sweet daughters, Christine and Elaine. Happy birthday, again! And may you have many many more wonderful moments in the years to come. Save these dates! Please mark down these important dates on your Social Red Carpet Calendars: • October 26th M a r k h a m Federation of Filipino Canadians Anniversary Dinner -Dance, for tickets, contact MFFC President, Yoly Ladines at [email protected]. • October 27th Filipino Association of Richmond Hill Halloween Party. Come dressed in a costume --or not, but awards for the best adult and best kids costumes. Venue is at the Masonic Hall, Richmond Hill -- for tickets, contact FARH President, Miguel Caducio at [email protected]. • November 14th The Filipino Canadian Real Estate Association (Filcrea) Annual General Meeting and Meet and Greet. A golden opportunity to network with realtors, real estate lawyers, home inspectors, contractors, insurance agents, and other professionals related to the real estate industry. Venue is Marcelina’s (formerly Aristokrat), contact Filcrea Acting Secretary, Alene Barcia at alene.barcia@ td.com • November 23rd The Philippine Press Club of Ontario (PPCO) is holding a special event to observe the 3rd Anniversary of the Ampatuan Massacre and the Observance of the International Day to End Impunity; for details, contact PPCO Secretary, Tan Canchela at [email protected] • December 8th Filcrea Christmas Party to be held at the Scarborough Bluffers. An Elegant Evening of Dinner and Dance. For tickets and more information, contact Alene Barcia at [email protected]. • December 14th The Philippine Press Club of Ontario (PPCO) Christmas Party. Venue is the Prestige Banquet Hall, at Dufferin and Finch. For tickets, contact agpaoa_e@yahoo. ca or [email protected]. • December 15th The University of the Philippines Upsilon Sigma Phi and Sigma Delta Phi Christmas Party – Brods and Sis may contact Rudy (Boy) Ilag at [email protected]. And then, there’s Christmas, of course! But that’ll wait till our next issue! The Belle of the Ball, the Birthday Celebrant herself, Tess Fernandez, is flanked by her lovely Our Bff's Vic and Jean Today, during their Switzerland rendezvous, shown here with friends, John and Letty Fleck from Scarborough, and Marlene, Elena, Gloria and Flor from Naples, Florida. daughters, Elaine and Christine. Senator Jun Enverga dropped by Tess Fernandez's birthday bash recently. From left to "Prost!" They kept shouting cheers during the Oktoberfest that we attended in Kitchener-Waterloo right, Candy Martin, Vic Todas, Jean Todas, Rubi Talavera, Senator Enverga, Elsa Hung recently. From left to right: Bina Comendador, Willie Reodica, Rubi Talavera, Vic Todas, Cip Fay- and Lito Martin. ola, Glo Friends and family tender a bridal shower for Rachel Quintos for her wedding on January 13, 2013. Standing from left, Daisy Quintos (mother of the bride- to -be), Rachel Quintos (bride to be), Eden Tacorda (mother of the groom-to -be), Jean Todas, Norma Seth Aniceto is the only thorn among the beautiful roses, Elsa Hung, Jean Todas, and Rubi TalaQuiroga (grandmother of Rachel) -sitting down, from left: Bambi Todas-Lozada, Geri- vera. anne Lozada and Brenda Querubin. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 35 Philippine Courier TICKLE ME! By Chuchi Punzalan THIS IS US! Senior citizens are constantly being criticized for every conceivable deficiency of the modern world, real or imaginary. We know we take responsibility for all we have done and do not blame others. HOWEVER, upon reflection, we would like to point out that it was NOT the senior citizens who took: - The melody out of music, - The pride out of appearance, - The courtesy out of driving, - The romance out of love, - The commitment out of marriage, - The responsibility out of parenthood, - The togetherness out of the family, - The learning out of education, - The service out of patriotism, - The Golden Rule from rulers, - The nativity scene out of cities, - The civility out of behavior, - The refinement out of language, - The dedication out of employment, - The prudence out of spending, - The ambition out of achievement or - God out of government and school. And we certainly are NOT the ones who eliminated patience and tolerance from personal relationships and interactions with others!! And, we do understand the meaning of patriotism, and remember those who have fought and died for our country. Just look at the Seniors with tears in their eyes and pride in their hearts as they stand at attention with their hand over their hearts! YES, I'M A SENIOR CITIZEN! - I'm the life of the party..... Even if it lasts until 8 p.m. - I'm very good at opening childproof caps..... With a hammer. - I'm awake many hours before my body allows me to get up. - I'm smiling all the time because I can't hear a thing you're saying. - I'm sure everything I can't find is in a safe secure place, somewhere. - I'm wrinkled, saggy, lumpy, and that's just my left leg. - I'm beginning to realize that aging is not for wimps. Yes, I'm a SENIOR CITIZEN and I think I am having the time of my life! ------------Love this Doctor! Q: Doctor, I've heard that cardio vascular exercise can prolong life. Is this true? A: Heart only good for so many beats, and that it... Don't waste on exercise. Everything wear out eventually. Speeding up heart not make you live longer; it like saying you extend life of car by driving faster. Want to live longer? Take nap. Q: Should I reduce my alcohol intake? A: Oh no. Wine made from fruit. Brandy distilled wine, that means they take water out of fruity bit so you get even more of goodness that way. Beer also made of grain. Bottom up! Q: How can I calculate my body/fat ratio? A: Well, if you have body and you have fat, your ratio one to one. If you have two body, your ratio two to one. Q: What are some of the advantages of participating in a regular exercise program? A: Can't think of single one, sorry. My philosophy: No pain...good! 36 Q: Aren't fried foods bad for you? A: YOU NOT LISTENING! Food fried in vegetable oil. How getting more vegetable be bad? Q : Will sit-ups help prevent me from getting a little soft around the middle? A: Oh no! When you exercise muscle, it get bigger. You should only be doing sit-up if you want bigger stomach. Q: Is chocolate bad for me? A: You crazy?!? HEL-LO-O!! Cocoa bean! Another vegetable! It best feel-good food around! Q: Is swimming good for your figure? A: If swimming good for figure, explain whale to me. Q: Is getting in shape important for my lifestyle? A: Hey! 'Round' is shape! Well... I hope this has cleared up any misconceptions you may have had about food and diets. And remember: Life should NOT be a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in an attractive and well-preserved body, but rather to skid in sideways - Chardonnay in one hand - chocolate in the other - body thoroughly used up, totally worn out and screaming "WOO-HOO, what a ride!!" AND..... For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies. 1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans. 2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans. 3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans. 4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans... 5. The Germans drink a lot of beer and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans. CONCLUSION: Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you. -----------How the world works lately... If a man cuts his finger off while slicing salami at work, He blames the restaurant. If you smoke three packs a day for 40 years and die of lung cancer, Your family blames the tobacco company. If your neighbour crashes into a tree while driving home drunk, He blames the bartender. If your grandchildren are brats without manners, You blame television. If your friend is shot by a deranged madman, You blame the gun manufacturer. And if a crazed person breaks into the cockpit and tries to kill the pilot at 35,000 feet, and the passengers kill him instead, The mother of the crazed deceased blames the airline. I must have lived too long to understand the world as it is anymore. So, if I die while my OLD WRINKLED BUTT is parked in front of this computer, I want all of you to.... Blame Bill Gates. Suntok sa Buwan Ni John Agustin Bumabaluktok na ang tuwid na daan ni PNoy Mukhang nagkamali si Pangulong Noynoy Aquinosa ginawa niyang pagbibigay ng P70,000 para mapiyansahan si dating Isabela Governor Grace Padaca, kahit na sabihin pa niya na sarili niyang pera ito at hindi galing sa kaban ng bayan. Remember, kaa-appoint lang niya si Padaca bilang isang Commissioner ng COMELEC at di magandang tingnan na si PNoy pa ang magpipyansa ke Padaca dahil pwedeng maging dahilan iyon para ‘gumanti ng utang-na-loob’ang bagong Comelec commissioner kapag nangailangan si PNoy ng tulong. Isipin ding hindi talaga nagpiyansa si Padaca ng ilabas ng Sandigangbayan ang warrant of arrest laban sa kaniya dahil sa kasong graft na isinampa kontra sa kaniya nuong 2006 dahil sa pautang na Ph25million sa mga magsasaka ng walng kaukulang bidding. Inimbestigahan ng todo ang kaso at ng matapos umano ang masugid na imbestigasyon, nag-isyu na nga warrant of arrest ang Sandiganbayan at nagpatong ng P30,000 na piyansa para sa graft case at P40,000 para sa malversation. Total na piyansa na kailangan: P70,000. Giit nuon at hanggang ngayon ni Padaca, poli¬tically-motivated umano ang kaso dahil hindi naman daw talaga kailangan ang bidding. At bilang protesta nga, nagdesisyon si Padaca na hindi magpiyansa. Sa Oktubre 18 ang arraignment. Doon magsasabi si Padaca kung siya ay guilty o not guilty. Pero, me tanong nga ng bayan, bakit hindi inaresto si Padaca gayung me warrant of arrest siya na inilabas nga ng Sandigangbayan at hindi naman ito nagtatago? Dapat ay naserve ang warrant ke Padaca, hinuli at ikinulong ito kapag di nagbayad ng piyansa, tulad ng ginagawa ng Kapulisan sa mga mahihirap na mamamayan at medyo mayaman ng kaunti kapag me arrest warrant. Katakatakataka talaga, di ba mga kakabsat? Anak din ba si Padaca ng jos sa Palasyo? Hindi naman daw, katropa lang daw sa KKK. -0Hindi masama na manindigan si Padaca sa akala niyang tama. Kung gusto niyang magrebelde sa sistema at magpaaresto para malagay sa media at e-expose ang kabulukan ng sistema, okay ‘yon. Kaya lang paano nga¬yon ‘yan dahil in-appoint siyang Comelec commissioner? Sana man lang ay hinintay na muna ni PNoy na maresolba ang kaso bago binigyan ng pwesto si Padaca sa Comelec. Kung talagang walang basehan at politically-motivated lang ang kaso, lalabas naman tutoo dahil ‘di ba sabi nga ni Presidente Aquino ay “Tuwid na Daan na tayo.” ‘Di ba mga kakabsat? Pero, iba kasi ang pamantayan kapag kaibigang-karnal na ng Pangulo ang mga nai-involved sa malalaking isyu. Kaya okay lang na ma-appoint sa mga sensitibong posisyon sa gobiyerno kahit na may mga kaso pa, tulad ni Grace Padaca. At si PNoy pa ang nagbigay ng pangpiyansa. At sinamahan pa si Padaca sa pagbabayad ng piyansa ni DILG Secretary Mar Roxas na lider ng Liberal Party. Iba klase, ha, mga kakabsat? Kahit na Presidente ang nag-aappoint ng commissioners, eh, dapat na maging independent and Comelec sa opisina ng Presidente or Excutive. Pero sa ginawa ngang ito ni Aquino ay parang naging moro-moro na at halohalo pa ang pagiging magkakaibigan at katungkulan sa bayan. Garapala na at parang hindi na kinikilala ng mga ito ang salitang delikadeza. Dati ay hinahangaan ko si Padaca, pero, ng pinagmalaki pa niyang sanay siyang gumagawa ng hindi ordinaryong bagay, handang magpahuli at lumalaban, eh, nabawasan ng todo ang paghanga ko sa kaniya dahil sa kaniyang naging kayabangan. Isa pa, ano ang kaugnayan o, koneksiyon ng mga salitang iyon sa pagtanggap ng pampiyansa mula ke PNoy, eh, di ba dapat ay independent siya? Sa ginawa niyang iyon, sinong hindi maniniwala ngayon na hindi siya ‘hawak sa leeg’ni PNoy? -0Sobra-sobra na yata ang ‘pagkagamahan’sa puwesto ng me malalaking pangalan sa larangan ng pulitika sa Pinas, ah. Matapos maging senador, congressman, gobernador, mayor hanggang sa barangay chairman ang Lolo, Lola, Tatay, Nanay, Kuya at Ate, eh, ang kanilang mga siblings naman ang patatakbuhin bilang mga kapalit sa iiwanang puwesto sa gobiyerno. At wala raw namang masama duon, dahil mayroon daw silang itinanim na ‘legacy’ sa kanilang lugar at ang iba naman ay gustung-gusto na maglingkod sa bayan. Hehehehehe .... Sino kaya ang maniniwala sa kanila, ha mga kakabsat? Napakalaking kalokohan. Talaga lang na wala na delicadeza ang mga taong ito at ipinakikita lang ang pagkaganid sa kapangyarihan. Mula sa Senado, na me magkapatid, mag-asawa, magkakapatid, magTiyo-Tiya, mag-pinsan sa Kongreso, gayundin sa Kapitolyo at munisipyo hanggang barangya hall, eh, magkakamag-anak na halos ang nagpapatakbo ng ating bansa.Yumaman ba ang Pinas? Umangat ba ang antas ng pamumuhay n gating mga kabayan? Aba, hinde, ah. Yong mahihirap, lalong humirap at nabaon ng todo sa lusak, at yong mayayaman, lalo pang yumayaman. Ito ang tunay na mukha ng ating bansa, sa pamumuno ng iilang mayamang pamilya. Ito ang tinatawag na political dynasty na maikukumpara na sa mistulang pagtatayo ng organized-gang, kaya nga may gang-war na sa hanay ng mga pamilyang pulitiko. Dalawang higanteng pamilya sa isang lugar, tulad sa Cavite, na sobrang maglaban ang pamilyang Revilla at Lacson. Bakit kaya hindi na lang isipin ng mga pamilyang ito ang kapakanan ng bayan at tapusin na ‘yang pag-aasam sa sobrang kapangyarihan. Ang makakasagot nga lang pala sa katanungang ito ay ang mga botante na hanggang ngayon ay nalulubog pa sa sobrang kahirapan. Dapat na sigurong maghanap na ng mga matitinong lider sa kanilang lugar ang mga botante, ‘yung may kakayahan at may pagmamahal sa bayan,’hindi yong naglalagay at bumibili ng mga boto para ‘bawiing muli’ang perang ito sa kaban ng bayan kapag nanalo. Oras na mga kababayan na ilagay sa pwesto yong me pagmamahal sa kapwa, me takot sa Diyos parehas lumaban at maasahan sa oras ng kagipitan. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Lolita Carbon of ASIN melts Toronto! The legendary folk singer Lolita Carbon and her Acoustic Band members Jazz Almonacid and Ammi Maranan showcase their final exceptional style of entertaining Pinoy Original Pilipino Music (OPM) fans November 2 at the Yatco Restaurant in Brampton after captivating the music-loving Pinoys in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) since their initial concert September 27, 2012, with Gian Carlo Bobila and his Band With No Name, as the main attraction of the ‘Anghel ng Tahanan Canada 2012’ coronation night at the TICC where no less than 400 mainstream crowd gave the group a standing ovation...... Lolita, Jazz and Ammi, then gave dazzling performances at the full-house Prestige Disco House at the start of their 6-Bar Tour gigs October 3 and mesmerized the jam-packed Yatco Restaurant in Brampton, after a UMAC Night Up-Close and Personal show. ... Prestige Disco was again full-to-the-rafters when Lolita Carbon and her acoustic group came back October 26 where no less than 200 ASIN fanatics sang and danced with the triumvirate. Pinoy bands Crossover and Breeding Grounds manage by Ramon Estuaris and Grace Almeda electrified the motely, cheering fans with their own brand of music; Manila Flavors Restaurant in Niagara Falls apologized to more than 50 people who failed to watch Lolita Carbon and her acoustic band due to an SRO crowd; and due to insistent public clamor, Lolita Jazz and Ammi perform their farewell show at Yatco..... To Ms. Lolita Carbon, the acknowledge icon of OPM in the Philippines and her acoustic band member Jazz Almonacid and Ammi Maranan, thank you very much for bringing your excellent music her in Toronto! From us at The Philippine Courier-EDCILLE Productions – Cecille Araneta, Eduard Que, Miguel Caducio and Mon Datol – Mabuhay Kayo at ang Musikang Pilipino! (Photos by TPC’s Mondee, Miguel Caducio, Ariel Ramos, Kandeys David, Larry Torres & Paul Esguerra) Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 37 Classified Ads Philippine Courier Jolly Dolly celebrates another year Dolly Patricio celebrated her birthday with close friends in Toronto. They had lunch at Sampaguita Restaurant and continued their Thanksgiving Prayer at her home with her Rosary group. L>R are: Lorenza Torres, Lady Dolly Poblete, Lito Sanchez, Tessie Fernandez, Sir George R. Poblete, Ding Fernandez, Cora Beltizar, Pepita Verayo, Celebrant Dolly Patricio, Nenita Zapanta, Monsy Zarris and Greg Beltizar. L>R are: Lady Dolly Poblete, Pepita Verayo, Monsy & Emil Zarris, Lorenza Torres, Sir George R. Poblete celebrant Dolly Patricio, Ding Fernandez, Lito Sanchez, Tessie Fernandez, Nenita Zapanta, Greg & Cora Beltizar CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS 1 Plant fi ber 5 Tears 10 Clock time 13 Singing voice 14 Single 15 Mexican sandwich 16 Covered with ice 17 Forms fl ower calyx 18 Black 19 Gone to lunch 21 What sport would move fastest by doing the Australian crawl 23 __ Lanka 26 Evergreen tree 28 Sleep disorder 29 Chocolaty drink (2 wds.) 32 Baked pasta dish 33 Prayer ending 34 According to food experts, what Visayan province is the source of the country’s best talaba 36 Jewels 37 Junk 38 38 Extravagant party 42 Basic beliefs 43 Opera solo 44 Christ’s mother 46 Computer sharing system 49 First name of the richest Filipino living outside the Philippines 51 River (Spanish) 52 Pose 53 Emaciated 57 Not (refi x) 59 Prod 60 Sporty car brand 62 Eight in tagalog 66 Sego lily’s bulb 67 Abate (2 wds.) 68 Radar target 69 Unrefi ned metal 70 Water retention 71 Bawled DOWN 1 A measure ( Music) 2 Boxer Muhammad 3 Short-term memory 4 Soy sauce 5 Rube 6 Compass point 7 Dozes 8 Haul 9 GS 10 Apolinario _____________, 11 Quick bread 12 Island nation 15 Allure 20 Alien’s spaceship 22 Water pipe 23 Thick carpet 24 European City hosted the First World Youth Day 25 Detail 27 Pacquiao’s coach 30 Nervous system 31 City in Ohio 32 Bomb 35 Cutting beam 37 Eye infection 38 Food and Agriculture Organization (abbr.) 39 Goofs 40 Carved Polynesian pendant 41 Compass point 42 Palayaw ni Joseph Estrada 44 What you see on a hot day 45 Filipino dish 47 Dried smoked fi sh 48 Date 49 Loop 50 Swimming mammal 54 Healthy 55 Chilled 56 Attractive 58 Northwest by west 61 Strong drink 63 Brew 64 Edge 65 choose Solution to August 2012 issue MARRYING TYPE Q. Who’s the world’s most married individual? A. Former Baptist minister Glynn Wolfe of Blythe, California, with 27 monogamous marriages. He first married in 1927 when he was 19 years old. Wolfe’s latest wife is a 21-year-old Filipina named Daisy Delgado. His previous oldest wife was 38. Wolfe believes his total number of children is 41. Philippine Mayors are no longer permitted by law to solemnize marriages. Classified Odd. Vera Czermak of Prague, Czechoslovakia, was bitterly unhappy and depressed, for she had discovered that her husband was being unfaithful. She decided that the only answer was to commit to commit suicide, and she hurled herself from the window of their second-floor apartment. She landed on her husband, who chose that moment to arrive at the main entrance to the building. He was killed; she survived. WORD WATCH Uxorious (yuk so’rious): extremely devoted to or fond of one’s wife. Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 Philippine Courier Oct. 7 - Nov. 6, 2012 39