Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Continued on page 29
Miss Janine Tugonon US, Philippines and around the world to vote in the online polls during the annual pageant to be held at Planet Hollywood here Dec. 19.
Continued on page 28
Shock is in the faces of this group when Pacquiao was KOd. (A. Tugado Marzan)
Continued on page 28
Continued on page 28
Continued on page 28
2
WASHINGTON D.C. -Falling off the scal cliff will hit FilipinoAmerican families just as hard as the rest of America, prompting the nations largest Filam group to urge compatriots to prod lawmakers to make the deal. This is a moment in history that simply demands cooperation and compromise from everyone to achieve a brighter future, said Eduardo Navarra, chairman of the National Federation of Filipino-American Associations (NaFFAA) in a statement. Unless a compromise is reached between the White House and the Republican-led House of Representatives, taxes will rise on the very rst day of 2013 that will be accompanied by over a trillion dollars in budget cuts which experts warn will trigger a new recession.
3
Jr. said. We hope that these old soldiers will receive what is due them before they all fade away. Ambassador Cuisia said President Obama assured Executive Director Eric Lachica of the American Coalition for Filipino Veterans that the issue remains a major concern for his administration during last months Veterans Day breakfast at the White House. It is our priority, Lachica quoted President Obama as telling him when he mentioned the problem of Filipino veterans who were disqualied from the $265-million Filipino Veterans Equity Compensation Fund. The fund, which President Obama approved in 2009, grants a one-time lump sum of $15,000 to Filipino veterans who have become US citizens and $9,000 for those who retained their Philippine citizenship. Retired Maj. Gen. Deln Lorenzana, Head of the Ofce of Veterans Affairs at the Philippine Embassy, said the disqualication issue stemmed from guidelines requiring each veteran to be certied by the National Personnel Records Center in St Louis, Missouri using two lists prepared by the US Army.
Veteran Alfredo Diaz, 96. died in Jersey city Dec. 6. for his efforts to address the concerns of these Filipino veterans who fought under the American ag during the Second World War, Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia,
4
BATON ROUGEEva Dominguez knew her husband Renato, one of three Filipino offshore oil workers seriously burned in the November 16 Gulf of Mexico re, has made it out of the critical list when the 52-yearold pipetter asked her for a kiss the other day. When Rey gestured that he wanted a kiss, I knew the worst was over, said Eva, a 49-yearold accountant and mother of three from Bataan. I thank God for hearing the prayers of my family and the Filipino people. It was not only Dominguez whose condition has improved. Another Filipino burn victim has also been removed from the critical list while a third remains in good condition, according to the Philippine Embassy in Washington D.C. Ambassador Jose Cuisia, Jr. was among the rst to welcome the development, which was conrmed by the Baton Rouge three other Filipinos. We welcome the good news that our two kababayans
Wife visits her injured husband in Louisiana hospital. General Hospital where the three Filipinos have been undergoing treatment since the November 16 accident that claimed the lives of are no longer in the critical list, Ambassador Cuisia said. We will continue to pray that their condition will keep on improv-
5
edly come from well-to-do families. They are Juan Alfonso Abastillas, 24; Crispin dela Paz, 28; Osric Cabrera, 27; and Galicano Datu III, 22. Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have been coordinating with local police in monitoring the case, including the delay in bringing the victim to a hospital after being stabbedin the neck by one of the assailants outside the gate of the upscale Bel-Air Village. The agents were shown CCTV footage of the incident, from the initial confrontation of Anikow with the four men up to his stabbing, which caused his death.
File photo shows George Anikow with wife and son. executive ofcer for the 4th Civil Affairs Group, 8th & I Marines, in charge of developing relationships with the local Afghan population. He was assigned with the J-5, Joint Chiefs of Staff at the time of his death. In the Philippines, meanwhile, murder charges, a nonbailable offense, have been led against the suspects who report-
6
VIRGINIA BEACH. The Philippines is urging ofcials of the Commonwealth of Virginia to send business delegations to Manila and explore trade and investment opportunities in what is touted to be Asias new tiger economy. Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia Jr. made the pitch during his meeting with Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade Jim Cheng, State Delegate Ron Villanueva and Virginia Beach Mayor William Sessoms Jr. during a visit here on 30 November 2012. The Philippines just recorded a 7.1 per cent growth in its gross domestic product in the third quarter, which is highest in Southeast Asia, Cuisia told the Virginia ofcials. The Philippine Stock Exchange is consistently among the top best performing in the world. Noting the importance of trade between the Philippines and the various states of the United States, Cuisia said Virginia can take its cue from Iowa which is sending a trade delegation to be led by Iowa Lt. Governor Kim Reynolds to Manila next year. As we go into 2013, the Philippines will give more focus on economic diplomacy and we look towards states like Virginia and fast-recovering cities such as Virginia Beach as partners in our trade and investment promotion efforts, Cuisia said. The Philippines currently fruit and plants. Cheng welcomed the Ambassadors initiative given
Ambassador Cuisia poses with: Mayor Harris of Newport News, Virginia (left) and Cong. Bobby C. Scott after their meeting with various business representatives December 1. (All photos by Bing C. Branigin) enjoys a favorable balance of trade with Virginia, although it is not among the states top 25 trading partners. As of September 2012, the Philippines exported to Virginia $67.5 million worth of edible preparations of meat, sh and crustaceans; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes; prepared vegetables, fruit and nuts; and edible fruit and nuts. On the other hand, the Philippines imported from Virginia $41.3 million worth of goods consisting of meat; food industry residues and prepared animal feed; tobacco and manufactured tobacco substitutes; and oil seeds and miscellaneous grain, seed, the strong economic performance of the Philippines and assured him that they will seriously consider organizing business missions to the Philippines. For his part, Virginia Beach Mayor Sessoms expressed the citys desire to have a sister-city arrangement with a Philippine city to bring closer business contacts and match opportunities. Sessoms also cited the contribution of the Fil-Am community to the citys growth. In his rst trip to Virginia Beach, Cuisia also visited the ofces of Virginia Electric Systems, which has a contract with the Philippine Navy to repair patrol vessels and other water-
L to R: Sec. James Cheng, Delegate Ron Villanueva, Amb. Jose L. Cuisia, and Mayor William Sessoms. posed for a picture after their successful working lunch at the Cavalier Golf and Yacht Club, Virginia Beach, last November 30.
Amb. Jose Cuisia and Mrs. Vicky Cuisia met Filam workers at the STHIL Inc, a worldwide manufacturer of chain saws, blowers, weed wackers, and other outdoor equipments for gardens, and landscaping.. The company employs hundreds of Filipino Americans in the Virginia Beach areas. largest manufacturers of chainemployees.
File photo shows members of Kaya campaigning to get out the votes. The recent electoral exercise inadvertently highlighted Filam inroads in the political arena. It was revealed that GOP vice presidential candidate Rep. Paul Ryans chief of staff was Joyce Yamat Meyer, a 41-year-old Fil-Am from Franklin, WI. Meyers father is from Masantol, Pampanga. Ryan himself has nothing but praise for Meyer, whom he has been working since 1995 when both of them were congressional staffers. worked as congressional staffers way back in 1995, even before the rising star and acknowledged policy wonk of the Republic Party got into politics. I quickly recognized her great abilities. When the member she worked for retired from the House of Representatives, I persuaded my employer, Sen. (Samuel) Brownback, to bring her on board. Meyer is married to a Pentagon consultant and they have a young daughter.
7
stead (NC), Jon-Michael Eclar (Washington D.C.), Jessica Gallant (MA), Anita Helterbran (FL), female fans in the audience gaga as he sang and danced on stage. He also went down the stage a number of times and posed with his fans for pictures. (ANCOP US communications)
Global Pinoy Singing Idol USA champions Leslie Ann Picazo, 7th from left, and Divina Aleonar, 6th from left, on stage, with L-R: Glen Santayana, Tat Reyes, Jack Macalalad, Jake Cuenca, Rachel Alejandro, Jessica Cox, Roger Santos, Consul Emil T. Fernandez, Rollie Balanza, Rod Bustos, Cris Kagahastian and Romy Dacayanan (Photo by Manny Caballero) said of her winning, Im so happy! I cant believe it. Everyone performed very well. The two will compete in the Grand Finals of Global Pinoy Singing Idol in Manila on January 25, 2013 where eight contestants from various countries (excluding the Philippines) will be competing for the $2,500.00 grand prize and a recording contract with ABS-CBN. The other 12 regional nalists (in alpha order) are: Lavon Abis (NJ), Apollo Apilan (IL), Andy Arellano (CT), Abbie ArmDr. Joel Mabalot (VA), Lowel Onting (NC), Michelle Panlaqui (VA), Dave Valeriano (MD), and Nina Mae Vidal (IL). Earlier in the ve-hour afternoon program, the tandem of Ahwel Paz of DZMM and Winnie Cordero of ABS-CBNs Umagang Kay Ganda, made the big crowd roared with laughter repeatedly with their funny lines and jokes. At the same time, singer Rachel Alejandro entertained the audience with her music, while actor Jake Cuenca made his
GPSI USA champions Leslie Ann Picazo of California, right, and Divina Aleonar of Illinois. (Photo by Manny Caballero)
CORRECTION
Lorna I. Seidel (RN PHD), president of the Bicol Association of Metropolitan Washington D.C., sent in this email to correct an error in the caption of the Sarung Baggi photo published in the October 31, 2012 issue of Manila Mail, page 17. Ms Seidel said the names of the participants in the photo were correct. She said: Marlon Enciso was the Chair of the Event but was described in the caption as the Choreographer. Rebecca Pagsibigan was the Choreographer of The RIGODON DE HONOR 29th Founding Anniversary of Sarung Banggi. May I please urgently request if this ERRATUM announcement appears on your December 15th issue of Manila Mail. I really would appreciate it. (Our apologies to Ms Pagsibigan. - Ed)
8
Hundreds of lives were lost, entire villages washed away and disaster ofcials were forced to review evacuation procedures after typhoon Pablo (international name: Bopha) struck the Philippines largest islands not once, but twice in a week. Reports from the Philippines compiled by editor Rodney J. Jaleco showed that nearly 600 people have died from the winds and ashoods spawned by Pablo and over 500 more are listed as missing (as of posting), possibly buried in landslides or washed away from rampaging waters. The National Disaster Risk Reduction & Management Council (NDRRMC) said more than a million families across the archipelago have been affected by Pablo, the deadliest typhoon to strike the Philippines this year. The Associated Press offered one of the most graphic accounts of what they witnessed: Bodies of victims were laid on the ground for viewing by people searching for missing relatives. Some were badly mangled after being dragged by raging oodwaters over rocks and other debris. A man sprayed insecticide on the remains to keep away swarms of ies. President Aquino III later declared the country in a state of national calamity to facilitate the release of relief funds and stop price gouging by traders and other groups. The toll nearly equaled that of the less powerful storm Sendong (international name: Washi) which entered the country through a similar path but traveled a different trajectory as Pablo almost the same time last year. Nearly 1,300 people most of them in northwestern Mindanao died from Sendong. On the other hand, Pablo devastated the southeastern parts of Mindanao on the way to exiting to the South China Sea via Palawan. The typhoon Pablo is very much stronger than the typhoon Sendong which we experienced last year. I would say that the damage is much, much bigger now compared to typhoon Sendong, Surigao del Sur Gov. Johnny Pimentel told ABS-CBN News. NASAs Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) measured Pablos rainfall at 85 mm/hr just before it struck the Mindanao coast on Dec. 4. In contrast, it said Sendong dumped rain at over 50 mm/hr in Mindanao last year. Pablo curved from west to east (a pattern that is more common for summer typhoons). The President ordered an investigation into the evacuation procedures in New Bataan in the province of Compostela Valley,
Rescued baby dies in arms of rescuer due to hypothermia. where hundreds of residents were put in harms way instead of being moved to safer ground. He ordered the Departments of Justice (DOJ), the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to investigate why residents were apparently brought to ood-prone and dangerous areas. President Aquino said he was dismayed by what happened in the municipality of New Bataan where some evacuation centers were destroyed by wind and oods, killing people who took shelter there, including a number of soldiers deployed to assist the victims.
The homeless wait for government aid to arrive. This is a very poor area where everyone is dependent on agriculture. If people cant earn money from crops they wont be able to put food on the table for their families, she was quoted in news reports. Theyll need a lot of help in the coming months. This is going to take a long time. In Doha, Qatar, the United Nations convened the 2012 climate change conference. The Philippine representative, Naderev Sano, aired an emotional appeal for action in the biggest climate change event this year. As we sit here in these negotiations, even as we vacillate eyes to the stark reality that we face. I appeal to ministers. The outcome of our work is not about what our political masters want. It is about what is demanded of us by 7 billion people. I appeal to all, please, no more delays, no more excuses. Please, let Doha be remembered as the place where we found the political will to turn things around. Please, let 2012 be remembered as the year the world found the courage to nd the will to take responsibility for the future we want. I ask of all of us here, if not us, then who? If not now, then when? If not here, then where? The Filipino negotiator asked.
Tropical Storm Ondoy, which battered Metro Manila and neighboring provinces in September 2009, had a recorded rainfall rate of 56.83 mm/hr. But the typhoon veered north again and struck the Ilocos region in the countrys main island of Luzon. Experts blame climate change for Pablos temperamental behavior. Firstly, it traversed a portion of Mindanao that is rarely visited by typhoons, much less one of Pablos intensity. Secondly, weathermen noted the apparent rise in the frequency and fury of December typhoons. And lastly,
10
The 113th Congress that opens in January will be the most diverse ever, including the biggest number of Asian American legislators that reect the changing American landscape. It will be the most racially diverse Congress ever, according to Rep. Mike Honda (17th District, Ca.), former chairman of the Congressional Asian Pacic American Caucus. Aside from Honda, the other returning Asian American & Pacic Islander legislators are Doris Matsui and Judy Chu of California, Filipino-American Robert Bobby Scott of Virginia, Eni Faleomavaega of American Samoa, Colleen Hanabusa of Hawaii, and Gregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan of CNMI. Indian-American physician Ami Bera was nally declared winner of the closely contested race for the 7th District, Ca. He defeated Republican incumbent Dan Lungren by 9,191 votes. Bera was only the 3rd Indian-American to be elected to the House of Representatives after Dalip Singh Saundh in 1950 and Bobby Jindal in 2005. The diversity of this incoming class represents everything that weve worked to create, said Honda, whose Silicon Valley district has just become home to the largest concentration of Asian Pacic Americans in the country. But the diversity doesnt end there. The incoming class features Floyd Mori, the incoming president of the Asian Pacic American Institute of Congressional Studies, said the election
Rep. Judy Chu 78 women, 42 African-Americans and 28 Latino lawmakers. Also elected were 4 Arab-Americans and one Caribbean-American. The 28 Latino members represent an increase of 4 from the 2012 count the previous high, according to the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Ofcials Educational Fund. Four openly gay politicians are also joining the freshman class of 2013 bringing the total LGBT bloc to 7 including Mark Takano, the rst openly gay Asian American elected to Congress. Takano, a teacher, will represent the 41st District, Ca.
Senator-elect Maxie Hirono broadens the pipeline for the future participation by new candidates from the community.
Rep-elect Mark Takano reecting the increasing political power of the fastest growing demographic group, Mori said.
Supporters of the RH bill hail its approval. period of plenary debates at the lower chamber.
11
12
Send a box and have a chance to win any of the prizes below. (Draw Date February 16, 2013)
1st Prize: 40 Flat TV 2nd Prize: Laptop 3rd Prize: 12 cubic feet Refrigerator (Delivered Philippines) 4th Prize: Microwave Oven 5th Prize: DVD Player 6th Prize: Slow Cooker
METRO DC AGENTS
Peter and Thelma Catama 301.830.1404 Tony Pascual 703.975.6628 Medel Rizo 202.413.0766 Joe Santos 240.263.6663 Val Suarez 240.552.1237
7th Prize: Three Rice Cookers 8th Prize: Three Sacks of Rice 9th Prize: Bread Toaster 10th Prize: Three Balikbayan Boxes to any Destination in the Philippines
DROP OFF CENTERS - MD
Kubo (Kensington) Kensington, MD 301.933.4783 Filipino Market & Cafe Rockville, MD 301.217.5920 Filipino Global Mkt (Oxon Hill) 301.686.0708 Manila Mart (Beltsville) 301.931.0086
DETROIT MICHIGAN
Ratty & Nelia Tuliao 248.252.2122 248.252.6361
but a threat to all counZaldy Villanueva tries, the DFA said in 240.731.5572 a statement Beijing has not responded to the demands of claimant countries for clarication said. except to say that the order came Apart from Philippines and from the police in the southern China, other countries such as Chinese province of Hainan. Taiwan, Vietnam, Brunei and If media reports are accuMalaysia claim various parts of rate, then Chinas planned action the South China Sea as part of will be a gross violation of the their territories. Declaration on the Conduct of Earlier, ASEAN (AssociaParties in the South China Sea tion of Southeast Asian Nations) (DoC), international law, particularly UNCLOS, and a direct Secretary-General Surin Pitsuthreat to the entire international wan noted that Chinas plan will community as it violates not escalate tension in the region. My reaction is (this is) ceronly the maritime domain of tainly an escalation of the tension coastal states established under UNCLOS, but also impedes the that has already been building. fundamental freedom of naviga- And it is a very serious turn of tion and lawful commerce, DFA events, he said.
13
emonies for the 2012 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas on December 5, 2012 at the Malacanang Palace. This years crop is made up of 22 Filipinos, ve Filipino organizations, and two foreign nationals from 14 countries. Lingkod sa Kapwa Pilipino awardees are Dr. Manuel A. Cacdac, a neuro-surgical doctor based in Boston, Massachusetts;. Dr. Christopher M. Guerrero, a medical doctor based in Chicago; and The Aguman Kapampangan UK. Kaanib ng Bayan awardees for advancing the cause of overseas Filipino communities. Dr. Gonen Haba in Israel; Dr. Christ ian Loehlein. Banaag awardees: Engr. Carlito E. Alpay in Saudi Arabia; Atty. Imelda L. Argel in Australia; Tomas P. Avendano Sr., Canada; Rafael S. Castanos, Alaska; The Filipiniana Europa V.Z.W., a multicultural nonprot organization in Belgium; The Filipino Community of Seattle in Washington; The Filipino Digerati Association in UAE; Luzviminda S. Micabalo of New York and Nevada; Al Perez Jr., Commissioner of San Francisco Entertainment Commission; Eric Michael B. Quema of San Francisco Police Department; Robert Santos is a civil rights leader in US; Ma. Luzviminda Tsai in Taiwan; Stichting Bayanihan is a self-help womens empowermenthrough empowerment in The Netherlands. The Pamana ng Pilipino: Engr. Mary Jane A. Al-Mahdi is the CEO of the Geoscience TestingLaboratory, the biggest independent testing laboratory operating in the Middle East. Dr. Delia R. Amaya is a retired professor of the University Campinas and an esteemed food technology expert in Brazil. Dr. Samuel Bernal, Dr. Antonio Fernando III in New Zealand; Almira Astudillo Gilles in the US; Allan Apl.de.Ap Pineda; Dr. Ruth Elynia S. Mabanglo, Hawaii; George Z. Ortoll in New York; Eric C. Spoelstra is the rst Filipino-American head coach to win the US National Basketball Association championship for the Miami Heat team; Dr. Francisca Tolete-Velcek in US.
President Benigno S. Aquino III, assisted by Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario and Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) chairperson Imelda Nicolas, presents the Pamana ng Pilipino Award to Allan Apl.de.Ap Pineda of the famous Black Eyed Peas Group, during the 2012 Presidential Awards for Filipino Individuals and Organizations Overseas (PAFIOO) awarding ceremony at the Rizal Hall of the Malacaan Palace on Wednesday (December 5). Pineda was cited for not forgetting his cultural roots and for being a supporter of youth education program in the Philippines. The award is conferred on Filipinos overseas exemplifying the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought the country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession. Aquino said For years, we lived as political refugees; and this allows me to sympathize with the difculties the migrants here have gone through the pain of separation from your loved ones, and from the places, and even the food, youve grown familiar with, compounded by the inescapable longing to return.
14
15
Manassas, VA 20110-2594, Church: 703-393-2144, Directions: http://www.allsaintsvachurch.org/, Celebrant: Rev. Robert C. Cilinski, Pastor of All Saints, Choir: Fil-Am Choir of All Saints. Contact: BenjoHill@ FilamMinistry@gmail.com. Sponsored by All Saints Fil Am Ministry December 21 (Friday) 7:30pm. Simbang Gabi: Theme:Believe in the Word of the Lord St. Theresas Catholic Church, 21371 St. Theresa Ln., Ashburn, VA 20147,Church: 703729-2287, Directions: http:// www.sttheresa-ashburn.com/, Celebrant: Rev. Richard M. Guest, Pastor of St. Theresa, Choir: Chua-Hontiveros Family and Friends, Contact: Ben & Sollie Manalaysay 703-858-1635, Sponsored by Filipino Community of St. Theresa December 21 (Friday) 8:00pm. Simbang Gabi: Theme:Believe in the Word of the Lord, Holy Family Catholic Church, 14160 Ferndale Rd. Dale City, VA 22193, Church: 703-670-8161, Directions: http:// www.holyfamilycatholicchurchdalecity.org/, Celebrant: Rev. Alex Enriquez, Choir: CFC/FFL Choir, Contact: Noel Montoro 703-209-2224, Sponsored by Filipino Community of Holy Family December 21 (Friday) 8:00pm. Simbang Gabi: Theme:Believe in the Word of the Lord, St. William of York, 3130 Jefferson Davis Highway, Stafford, VA 22554-4525, Church: 540-659-1102, Directions: Website: http://swoycc. org, Celebrant: Rev. Roberto De Martino,Co-Celebrant and Homilist: Rev. Jerome Magat, Choir: El Shaddai Stafford Cell and Friends, Contact: Vic and Ellen Carag 540-628-2404, Sponsored by Filipino American Apostolate of Saint William of York December 22 (Saturday) 7:00pm. Simbang Gabi: Theme: Imitate the ways of Mary, St. Mary of Sorrows Catholic Church, 5222 Sideburn Rd., Fairfax, VA 22032, Church: 703-9784141, Directions: http://www. stmaryofsorrows.org. Choir: Fil Am Ministry Choir of St.Mary of Sorrows, Contact: Luisa Robinson 703 981-0220, Sponsored by Filipino Community of St. Mary December 23, Sunday 7:30pm, Simbang Gabi: Theme: Open Yourself to the Joy of seeing God working in your World. Special Invitation to all Fil Am Youth. St. Timothy Catholic Church, 13807 Poplar Tree Rd., Chantilly, VA 20151, Church: 703-378-7461, Directions: http:// www.sttimothyparish.org/, Celebrant: H.E. Most Reverend Paul S. Loverde, D.D., S.T.L., J.C.L., Bishop of Arlington, Choir: St. Bernadettes Filipino Choir, Contact: Ed & Dollie Medina 703266-4670, Sponsored by Filipino Community of St. Timothy.
December 15-23, 7:00pm Simbang Gabi, Novena Masses. After the Dec. 23 mass, fellowship will follow at Father Dewan Hall, St. Columba Church, 7804 Livingston Road, Oxon Hill, Maryland. Contact: Al de Jesus 301-605-3001. (Sponsored by Fil-Ministry of St. Columba Church) December 15 (Saturday) 6:00-12:00pm. Marinduqueneos of the Capital Area, Inc. Pasko Natin 2012. New Fortune Chinese Restaurant, 16515 Frederick Ave., Gairthersburg, MD 20877.
$50 (adults), $40 (teens). Contact: Ruby Solomon 703-501-0012. December 15 (Saturday) 7:30pm Filipino Mass at St. Bernadette Catholic Church, 7600 Old Keene Mill Road Springeld, VA 22152. Sponsored by Filipino Ministry of St. Bernadette. Contact: (703) (703) 569-1054. December 15 (Saturday) 7:00pm Simbang Gabi: Theme: Cry out with Joy and Gladness, (Starts with Panuluyan), Our Lady of Good Counsel, 8601 Wolftrap Rd., Vienna, VA 22182,Church: 703-938-2828, Directions: http://
16
17
18
Around DC in Pictures
The University of he Philippines Alumni Association of Washington D.C., Maryland and Virginia (UPAADCMDVA) held their annual Christmas Party at the Hilton Hotel Mark Center in Virginia last December 2. Among guests are, from left, Dr. Jun Quion, Perfecto Santiago, Dr. Rene Alvir, Ms. Ched Bautista, Atty. Warie Azarcon, Dr. Albert Coo, current president, and Bong Pangilinan. (MCBranigin)
Also at the UPAA party are, from left: Atty. Gloria Calogne, Lita Sangalang, Yambi Yambao, Dr. Arnold Yambao, and Ms. Jackie. They used spoons and forks as musical instruments during the party. (MCBranigin)
Literary enthusiasts, artists, and friends of the Philippine Arts, Letters and Media Council (PALM) gathered December 8, 2012 for a tasteful holiday merienda cena at the residence of Linda and Bob Yangas in Bethesda, Maryland. Among those in photo are (seated, l-r) Nilo Santiago, Josie Lim Cruz, Linda Yangas, Jane Vergel, Lina Huesmann, Rudy Cruz; (standing, l-r) Yvonne Reyes, Warette Burcroff, PALM President Mitzi Pickard, Malcolm Churchill, Warren Ector, Beth Swallow, Ed Lachica, Femma and Gerald Lo, Bob Yangas, and Mark Dorin (Photo by Angelyn Tugado-Marzan)
Family and friends of Al Esguerra (center, holding a Russian instrument called Prima Domra) of Reston , Va. pose for a photo after the Nov. 18 performance of the Washington Balalaika Society Orchestra at the Montgomery College Cultural Arts Center in Silver Spring . With Esguerra, the lone Filipino American instrumentalist in the 60-person orchestra are, from left, Minerva Rosenthal, Prunie Esguerra and grandson Matias, Elvie Melegrito, Erlinda Inejosa and grandson Benny. (Photo by Jon Melegrito)
Kidlat Tahimik, Father of Independent Film in the Philippines, was recently in town visiting friends and relatives. He gained notoriety with his rst lm, Mabangong Bangungot, (Perfumed Nightmare) which he wrote, directed and lmed in 1977. It was introduced at the Berlin Festival and supported by Francis Cuppola and Susan Sontag and quickly travelled around the world. He has since produced many more lms which have created a following of lm makers in Asia. He is seen above with artist/musician Julian Oteyza, with a bamboo camera that Kidlat carries on his trip around in his travels. In the background is a painting by Victor Oteyza, father of Julian and uncle of Kidlat.
Father Benigno Beltran (2nd from left) was recently in town to promote his book Faith and Struggle on Smokey Mountain, published by Orbis Books. He is seen here with Nancy Ceniza (left), PALM President Mitzi Pickard and Consul Emil Fernandez (right). PALM hosted a book launch at the Sweet City Cafe in Vienna, Virginia where Father Beltran spoke about his 30-year experience in Smokey Mountain, a garbage dump in Manila. He described the unspeakable squalor of a group of people with the will to survive, the grit to sustain family and community, the ability to create joy while living in abject poverty. He helped create jobs, educate the children, empower the women in the slums and most of all, given them hope. (Photo by Maurese Owens)
The 2013 ofcers of Victory Daylight Lodge #1778 in Norfolk, Virginia were inducted on Dec. 1 at the Norfolk Masonic Temple in Granby Street. Installed as Worshipful Master is Reyvincent Gutierrez of Batangas, Philippines. He is the youngest Worshipful Master to be installed since Victory Daylights charter February 1978. Of the 160 members, majority are Filipino Americans. In photo are, from left, front Wilbert Austria, Renato Felias, Oscar Gador, Reyvincent Gutierrez, Jeffrey Paras, Christopher Aldea, Mark Ancheta, Philip Cortez, Rayman Alcantara, Conrado Calpito,Jackie Harrison, and Reynaldo Rull. For more info on Freemasonry in Virginia, visit www.grandlodgeofvirginia.org.
During his visit to Virginia Beach, Amb. Cuisia held a breakfast forum with NaFFAA-FAVCOHR at the Susan Kitechenette on Dec. 2 to personally thank them for their participation and leadership in increasing the number of Filam registered voters during the presidential election. From left are Faith Manoza, Jackie Estaris, Jennifer Dizon, Mrs. Vicky Cuisia, Genesis Manoza, and Rudi Estaris; Back row: Mike Miller, Jason Tengco, newly elected School Board, Virginia Beach, Tracie Liguid, and Angelique C Miller.
19
The Northern Virginia Rondalla was a big hit at the Paskong Pinoy at the Catholic University, December 2. The Rondalla has been in existence for 14 years and has participated in Paskong Pinoy programs since 2005. Composed of students and some adults, the Rondalla was founded by Mandy Paredes and musical director Timothy Paredes. (MCBranigin)
Drs. Arlene Marie Bambi and Victor Emmanuel Vic Lorica render a much-applauded duet at the end of the 2012 Paskong Pinoy concert held December 2, 2012 at the Edward Pryzbyla Center of the Catholic University of America.ts. (Photo by A. Tugado Marzan)
Shown during a recent gathering at the resident of Leo and Juanita Susuico in Alexandria, Virginia for the annual celebration of the feast of St. Jude are front row, from left: Ema Tulop , Leon and May Sarmiento, Gloria Baquista and Jeanne Gonzales. Back, from left: Gloria Velasco, Linda Collins, Juanita Susuico, Mary Aquino, Modesto Olympia, Jonee Manuel, Dadith Olumpia, Len Gomera, Yoly Arzadon and Aurora Redondo.
Nothing beats playing a round of golf on your birthday. Playing golf recently at the Penderbrook GC in Falls Church with birthday celebrant Ernie Apaga (3rd from left), were from left, Carpenter Arpa, Ret. Gen. Deln Lorenzana and Sal Lagdameo.
20
21
22 US News Briefs
NEW YORK - The preChristmas masses known as Simbang Gabi held for the past 26 years at the Philippine Center on Fifth Avenue in Manhattan is now history. Replacing the Simbang would be the holding of the Panunuluyan, the dramatic ritual narrating through music Joseph and Marys difcult search for a place to stay in Bethlehem for Jesus Christs birth. The Panunuluyan sa Konsulado replaces Simbang Gabi sa Konsulado after the Archdiocese of New York ordered that it be discontinued in compliance with a Roman Catholic sanction against celebrating Eucharist in non-churches like the Philippine Center, or other designated places of worship. Like Simbang Gabi, the Panunuluyan is another time-honored Filipino tradition that will be observed by the FilAm community in the New York area for nine consecutive nights, from Dec. 6 to 14, starting at 6 p.m., at the Kalayaan Hall of the Philippine Center. Each night will be a three-part event: rst, a re-enactment of the Holy Familys attempts to land any lodging during the mandated Census-taking by order of Caesar Augustus; second, an Advent meditation facilitated by a homilist; and at the evenings end, the traditional salu-salo, featuring festive fare reminiscent of Simbang Gabi. The rst-day of Panunuluyan sa Konsulado, was held Dec. 6 sponsored by the Coalition of Philippine Schools Alumni Associations (or Coalition of Schools), in partnership with the United Nations Philippine Cultural Society and the San Lorenzo Ruiz Choral Group. teachers kay Lourdes dahil kung hindi kay Lourdes nasa Pilipinas pa sila ngayon, Villarba-Jose countered. The jury hearing for what is said to be the rst certied human trafcking case of professionals in the United States will go on for several days. A verdict is expected on December 19, 2012. was charged with burglary and third degree grand larceny or theft for allegedly taking more than $7,000 worth of items from the Childrens Cancer and Blood Foundation ofce in Manhattan. The original complaint said that a worker told the police that Ballenas was said to have been seen in a video surveillance entering locked storage rooms of the charity during non-ofce hours. The complaint also said that he allegedly stole iPads, shirts, bottles of wine among others. His legal counsel, Oscar Michelen said Filams should continue to show their support for Ballenas. Some members of the community who came to support him said that Ballenas is widely known as a big advocate for charity. Even with his ongoing case, Ballenas is said to continue his charity work for the victims of Superstorm Sandy as well as for the victims of the recent typhoon Pablo in the Philippines.
Jim Diego a cappella group in New York within ve months of moving to the city from Michigan in 2007. Its forst album, The Red States: No Political Afliation, was released in September and is now garnering nominations and awards from the Contemporary A. Cappella Society, the Grammys of the a cappella music world. Now renamed Restated, the group of about 15 members has performed in colleges, community centers and at private parties. <http://thefilam.net/wpc o n t e n t / u p l o a d s / 2 0 1 2 / 11 / restated-21.png>This group is dedicated to bringing its repertoire of rock, dirty pop and R&B hits all over New York City and beyond, he writes on Facebook. In June, Jim released his solo album of Whitney Houston songs called The Whitney Project. Jim found himself hooked on a capella music as an architecture student at the University of Michigan.
Rene Ballenas Rene Ballenas came in full force to his hearing at the New York Criminal Court in Lower Manhattan on Dec. 6. Ballenas, 50, was arrested last October and
23
him. Im also elated that he has fully accepted his defeat like a true Champ and will most
Pacquiao KO!
Diyos ko po! Na KO yung Pacman ko! Hindi siya gumagalaw! Buhay pa kaya siya? Nakakakilabot naman yung face-down position ni Pacquiao sa canvas; parang si Ninoy Aquino noon sa tarmac! Bangon na, Manny, bangon! Mahal na Panginoon, ibangon niyo po yung Congressman namin! Kawawa naman si Manny; dudugo-dugo yung mukha niya! Tulad ng malakas na bagyo sa lugar niya sa Mindanao, binagyo si Pacquiao ng suntok! Naku po, talo na naman si Pacquiao! Hindi ko tuloy maririnig yung pasasalamat niya sa fans niya around the world Tenk yu to all the boxing fans for watching da ght! Its my job, you know, to gib yu happiness by doing my job! Marami siyang iniintindi; hindi siya naka-focus! Lucky punch lang ni Marquez yun! Pagwalang rematch, takot talaga si Marquez! Retire ka na lang, Manny! Mag-presidente ka na lang, Manny, idolo ka talaga namin! Laban uli, Manny, naandiyan pa si Floyd Mayweather Jr.! Such mixed reactions came from Filipinos and Filipino Americans who were shocked and scared as they witnessed Philippine Congressman and Peoples Boxing Champ Emmanuel Manny Dapidran Pacquiao being knocked out cold (and unmoving for some time) by his Mexican archrival Juan Manuel Marquez during
Pacquiao grimaces as Marquez lands a left in the earlier rounds. the 6th round of their fourth bout December 8, 2012 at the MGM Grand Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. O, God, it was shocking! said 3-term Maryland State Delegate David M. Valderrama as he described Pacquiaos knock out. It was totally unexpected as Filipinos watching him worldwide were expecting him to knock out Marquez and not the other way around! added Valderramas daughter, MD delegate Kris Valderrama... I was stunned in the way he lost but Im relieved and happy that medical tests cleared likely and quickly recover from his devastating knockout., said Nitoy Lopez, a 3-time former president of the Filipino American Association of Central Virginia (FAACV) as well as a past president of the Upsilon Sigma Phi of North America. We thought it was the end of him as he lay motionless! said Caloy and Zenia Magtibay of Greenwich, Connecticut. I prayed so hard for him to get up! said Pacquiaos aunt Lilia Lao of Virginia with daughters Zorayda Galloway and Vivian Marquez and friend Linda Goudarzi.
Lucky punch lang talaga yung ginawa ni Marquez! Pacquiao became over condent!, said Mar Marquez of Severn, Maryland. DJ Ray Cornejo of Gaithersburg, Maryland and his wife Monette with their sons Gerald and Jonathan all agree that Marquez just gave a lucky punch. Napansin ko nga hindi siya prepared, recalled Claire Aquino as she basked in the successful concert December 9, 2012 at the Fortune Chinese Seafood Restaurant in Falls Church, Virginia, of her husband Bens original compositions. Her family, including son Claudio, daughters Emily and Clarise (with husband Peter) all agree that Pacquiao became condent. His defeat must be a sign from God that he must now retire gracefully so he can continue spreading Gods word. Tutal, with his golden heart, marami na siyang natulungan. Lucy Cornejo Pascual, Sun-
ower International Cultural Institutes founder and president, reected that Pacquiao must know the value of acceptance. Quoting the Bibles Ecclesiastes, There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens.A time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away, Pascual explained that Pacquiao needs to give others a chance to reach their dreams. Its not always about winning, you know, added the Jose Family (Tony and Maribel with their sons Ryan and Nathan) of Elkridge, Maryland. Cause of Pacquiaos defeat? Nagpalit siya ng religion! quickly retorted retired Head Nurse Alejandrena Manaois who, together with her engineer husband, Clemencio Manaois, just came from the Vatican City where they witnessed the canonization by Pope Benedict XVI of the second Filipino saint, Pedro Calungsod.
24 Hometown News
President Benigno Aquino III has designated foreign affairs undersecretary Erlinda Basilio as the Philippines next ambassador to China. Aquino said the selection of a senior foreign affairs ofcial as the countrys top diplomat in China will indicate the seriousness of the Philippines in resolving the territorial dispute between the two countries. Basilio will replace Ambassador Sonia Brady, who had suffered a stroke earlier this year. I chose Basilio because of her wealth of experience, and also, she is highly recommended by Department of Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario. He arrived together with his parents, Manuel and Milagros Tagle who accompanied him to and from Rome. Cardinal Tagle is the seventh Filipino cardinal to be installed. The rst was Runo Cardinal Santos, followed by Cardinals Julio Rosales, Jaime Sin, Ricardo Vidal, Tomas Sanchez and Gaudencio Rosales. Asked about his plans as head of the largest denomination in the country, he said: Pope Benedict XVI told us that the role of a cardinal is to be near the masses or workers-as one of the closest collaborators of the Pope so that all of his ock could spread communion. of youth education program in the Philippines. The award is conferred on Filipinos overseas exemplifying the talent and industry of the Filipino, have brought the country honor and recognition through excellence and distinction in the pursuit of their work or profession. There were no awards from the DC area.
Security camera shows the four suspects attacking Anikow in Bel Air. get updates on the case where they were shown closed-circuit television or CCTV footage of the incident. They also inquired why it took almost an hour for an ambulance to bring Anikow to a hospital after he was stabbed. Senior Supt. Manuel Lukban Jr., Makati Police chief, however, explained that the rescue unit was quick to respond but apparently mistook Anikow as already dead. For its part, Makati City Prosecutors Ofce has recommended the ling of murder charges against the four suspects: Juan Alfonso Abastillas, 24, Crispin de la Paz, 28, Osric Cabrera, 27, and Galicano Datu 3rd, 22, a student of de la Salle University for the l death of Anikow.
The parents of Cardinal Luis Tagle meet him at NAIA after arriving from Rome. to the cardinal, say, It seems all right, it appears that we can live without the need for God. Tagle, also the archbishop of Manila, was replying to the question asked during a news conference at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport held shortly after his arrival: What is the biggest crisis confronting Filipino Catholics today? It would take me 30 days to answer that question, but off the cuff, we are not too far off what is happening in other places, where there is a marked erosion of faith in God by people, he said.
Veteran Tranquilino Kabiling with his family. here with his family, is believed to be the oldest living World War II veteran at 112 years old. Cabiling regularly goes to the Armed Forces General Headquarters at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City at the end
Continued on page 25
25
cies to award the Philippines investment-grade status. She is also trying to make tax-paying synonymous with patriotism. The chief, who amended BIRs vision statement to call it a partner in nation-building, makes sure her staff attend weekly agraising ceremonies. She often wears a T-shirt sporting BIRs 2012 slogan: I love Philippines. I pay taxes. Grupong Haligi ng Agaham at Teknolohiya para sa Mamamayan Inc. (Agham); Anak Mindanao party-list (AMIN); Anakpawis; Ang Ladlad; Ang Partido ng mga Pilipinong Marino Inc. (Angkla); Gabriela; Kababaihang Lingkod Bayan sa Pilipinas (KLBP); Kabataan; Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan All Filipino Democratic Movement (Kaakbay); Katribu; Social Amelioration & Genuine Intervention on Poverty (1-Sagip); Trade Union Congress Party (TUCP). Groups retained but under dissent were 1 Banat & Ahapo party-list (1BAP); Abakada-Guro; Abante Katutubo Inc. (Abante Ka); Abante Mindanao (Abamin); Abono; Adhikain ng mga Dakilang Anak Maharlika (ADAM); Adhikaing Tinataguyod ng Kooperatiba (AtingKoop); Agbiag Timpuyog Ilocano Inc.; Agrarian Development Association (ADA); Agricultural Sector Alliance of the Philippines (AGAP); AkapBata Inc.; Akbayan; Ako Ayoko sa Bawal na Droga (AKO); Alay Buhay Community Development Foundation Inc. (Alay Buhay); Alyansa ng Media at Showbiz (AMS); Alyansa ng OFW Party; Alyansang Bayanihan ng mga Magsasaka, Manggagawang Bukid at Mangingisda (ABA); An Waray; Ang Asosasyon Sang Mangunguma Nga Bisaya-Owa Mangunguma Inc. (Aambis-OWA); Ang Laban ng Indiginong Filipino (ALIF); Ang Matay Aalagaan (AMA); Ang National Coalition of Indigenous Peoples Action Na (Ang NCIP); Arts Business and Science Professionals (ABS); Association of Laborers and Employees (ALE); Bagong Henerasyon (BH); Bayan Muna; Buhay Hayaan Yumabong (Buhay); Citizens Battle Against Corruption (Cibac); Cooperative Natcco Network Party; Democratic Independent Workers Association Inc. (DIWA); Kalinga; Kasangga sa Kaunlaran Inc. (Ang Kasangga); Kasosyo Producer (AA Kasosyo); LPG Marketers Association Inc. (LPGMA); Puwersa ng Bayaning Atleta (PBA); Una ang Pamilya party-list (1 Ang Pamilya); Veterans Freedom Party (VFP); You Against Corruption and Poverty (Yacap). New groups that were granted accreditation were Aagapay sa Matatanda (AMA); Ang Nars (Ang Nars); Ating Agapay Sentrong Samahan ng mga Obrero Inc. (Aasenso); Pilipinos With Disabilities (PWD); Piston Land Transportation Coalition Inc. (Piston). There are others listed but with dissent.Among them are Migrante Sectoral Party of Overseas Filipinos and their Familes (Migrante); OFWS Family Club Inc. (OFW Family); and Ugnayan ng Maralita Laban sa Kahirapan (Umalab ka). extended for six more months the freeze order against executives of the notorious Aman Futures Group Philippines Inc, who are accused of fraudulently amassing an estimated P12 billion from 15,000 investors in the Visayas and Mindanao. The owner, Manuel Amalilio, has reported ed to Kota Kinabalu in Malaysia. The CA two weeks ago issued a 20-day freeze order on 25 bank accounts of Aman Futures to prevent its ofcials from withdrawing money and putting it beyond the reach of law. The freeze order was issued in response to an ex-parte petition led by the the Anti-Money Laundering Council and the Ofce of the Solicitor General. The CA said there was probable cause the funds deposited in the 25 accounts came from unlawful activities.
Gretchen Abaniel thanoi Sithsaithong to claim the Womens International Boxing Association (WIBA) minimum weight world title at the Makati Cinema Square on Dec. 2. The 27-year-old lady boxer from Puerto Princesa dominated the rst three rounds of the ght peppering her Thai opponent with punches from different angles. Referee Sam Bernabe stopped the ght at 1:36 of the fourth round when Sithsaithong can no longer defend herself. I cannot afford to lose again so I trained very hard for this ght, Abaniel told The Manila Times on Sunday night during the post-ght party at Team Insider Sports Bar in Tune Hotel. Im really thankful for the second chance given to me by my manager Jonathan Thorp.
continuing attacks on the local mining industry. Puerto Princesa Mayor Edward Hagedorn, who joined Gloria in the conference in Makati City, warned that more journalists like Gerry Ortega would die if the Reyes brothers were acquitted. Gloria Ortega dared the Reyes brothers to come out in the open and face the murder charges against them. She broke her silence after the Court of Appeals invalidated the second investigating panel created by the Justice Department to look into the killing. Malacanang said DeLima had the power to form the second panel.
Continued on page 26
26
Hometown News... from page 25
the President of the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association Inc., which operates the Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center that served as his vehicle in supporting various charitable causes, including fund-raising and livelihood projects, medical and dental missions to far ung areas, and relief operations to devastated communities in times of calamities and disasters. In 2002, he was elected Governor of the Philippine Red Cross and Governor of the Philippine Constitution Association, positions which he holds up to this day. ers - USS John McCain and USS Mustin- have been docked in Puerto Princesa in Palawan since Dec. 2 for a regular port call. The ships are part of the USS George Washington Carrier Strike Group, the largest US aircraft carrier docked in Manila Bay since Wednesday along with two escort ships, the USS McCampbell and USS Cowpens, also for a goodwill visit. It was not earlier declared by ofcials that USS John McCain and USS Mustin will be part of the USS George Washingtons entourage.
LUZON
2 US warships dock in Palawan
PUERTO PRINCESA -Two more US warships are in the western part of the Philippines for a ve-day goodwill visit amid military drills by China in disputed West Philippine Sea (South China Sea). Lieutenant Colonel Neil Estrella, spokesman of the Western Command, said the two guided missile destroy-
VISAYAS
Super Inggo gets standing ovation
CEBU CITY - Makisig Morales, 15, better known for his starring role in the Emmy-nominated fantaserye Super Inggo played the teen Visayan martyr Pedro Calungsod. Thousands of Cebuanos caught a glimpse of the life, travels and martyrdom of the young saint in a musical staged at the Waterfront Hotel and Casino Grand Ballroom on Dec. 5. Teen Saint Pedro showed the young martyr from who travelled with Jesuit priest Blessed Diego Luis de San Vitores and other missionaries to the Marianas islands (now Guam) in 1668 where they died while propagating the Catholic faith. The show was an adaptation of Msgr. Rudy Villanuevas full-length musical, Scenes from a Martyrdom, which was produced and performed by 29AD Musicionaries and members of Couples for Christ and its ministries. The play opened with Blessed Diego de San Vitores and his co-missionaries including the young Pedro, played by Morales, arriving in the Marianas islands. The play ends with the whole ensemble singing Way Sukod (Without Measure), with a solo by Gretchen Yaoyao.
MINDANAO
7 troopers killed in Sulu encounter
JOLO, Sulu - Seven government soldiers were killed in a clash between Philippine troops and the Al-Qaeda-linked Abu Sayyaf group in the southern Philippine province of Sulu on Dec. 5. According to Lt. Col. Randolph Cabangbang, spokesman for the Armed Forces Western Mindanao Command, the encounter between the 11th Marine Battalion Landing Team and Abu Sayyaf under Raidula Sahiron and Isnilon Hapilon, occurred at 4:30 a.m. local time in Patikul town. Sahiron and Hapilon are wanted by the U.S. and Philippine government for kidnapping and bombing attacks. Cabangbang described the ghting as erce, which inicted heavy casualties on the military forces. Apart from the seven fatalities, 21 soldiers were wounded in the encounter. Theres no report yet on Abu Sayyafs casualties. The encounter was described as the biggest since the military launched offensive this year against the group while in search of the remaining four hostages, including an Indian and a Malaysian national, and two Filipino shermen.
27
28
Ill be home for Christmas... from page 1
ins from L.A. would also join them in the Philippines. She was bringing lots of presents for her mother, four siblings and other relatives: chocolates, perfume, clothes and Christmas dcor. She looked forward to partaking of her favorite dishespancit with puto, karekare and dinuguan cooked the way she liked it. Recently retired Registered Nurse Paul Inserto left Dec. 1 to visit his relatives in Aklan, Visayas. This is a retirement present for me and my wife, he said at a sales presentation on Makati condo units, held in Baltimore. The couple already has a condo in Metro Manila. Inserto said they plan to stay there for six months. Im thinking of practicing my profession there half of the time, he added.
Civic mission
Other area Filipino Americans go home for the holidays on a civic and charitable mission. For 20 years now, volunteer ofcers and members of Feed the Hungry, Inc. play Santa Claus to indigent children and seniors. We try to limit gift giving to those who cannot work, like the very young and the very old, so that FtH will not be accused of promoting laziness among the able-bodied citizens, said founder Tess Calderon Alarcon. FtH projects are usually gifts that keep on giving. In Lubao, Pampanga, it built two
Jeff and Yoly Ponce Sutton with daughter Jessica. classrooms it hopes will last for at least 50 years. After the turnover of the classrooms, FtH gives additional donation of books, computers, TV/DVD player, Braille machines and repair of the classrooms. pine relief efforts. Amb. Cuisia publicly thanked the US for the immediate assistance. Our people are grateful for the assistance extended by the United States to help us respond to the aftermath of Typhoon Pablo in the Southern Philippines, he said. Reports said the US Agency for International Development (USAID) will be sending assessment teams to typhoon-affected areas to determine where the assistance is most needed. The United States has always been there to lend a helping hand to the Philippines whenever disaster strikes, Cuisia said as he noted that Washington has provided $11.7 million in humanitarian assistance and over $4.1 million in disaster risk reduction activities to Manila since 2007. A copy of Cuisias letter obtained by the Manila Mail thanked organizations that have mounted fund-raising campaigns for calamity victims in the past, reminding them the calamity spawned by typhoon Pablo is another occasion for the Filam community to come together and lend a helping hand to compatriots back home.
PAMRA reunion
Naomi Estaris, chief operating ofcer of Travel Outlet in Virginia Beach, said in an email interview Filipino Americans look forward to the holiday visit. This year is special because we are the agency of choice for the Cash donations would be among the ideal form of assistance, he said, providing details of how donors can funnel help to the Philippines. Among the government entities receiving cash donations are the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Account Name: NDRRMC Donated
The 2th-century Mayan manuscript. on misinterpretations of the Mayan calendar <http://www. livescience.com/21254-imagesmayan-calendar-carvings.html>. On the 21st, the date of the winter solstice, a calendar cycle called the 13th baktun comes to an end. Although Maya scholars agree that the ancient Maya would not have seen this day as apocalyptic, rumors have spread that a cosmic event may end life on Earth on that day.
29
pected. Some said the reason he lost was because he did not wear the Holy Rosary in his neck prior to the ght. (For more reactions from local Filams, see Marzans column on page 23.) Young Filipino Americans as well as Filipino teachers working in Washington who attended a birthday party and watched the ght at the residence of Filipino teachers Amador and Tess Jomuad in Springeld, Virginia were stunned when they saw Pacquiao oored by Marquez. Among the shocked watchers were Gabe San Juan, Joy Penaso, birthday celebrant Angel Jomuad, Queenie Gonzalez, Claudette Pagulayan, Liza and
Marquez lands a left on Pacquiaos face in earlier rounds. Gino Baustista, Lance Rodrigo, Isa Syguia, Vestre and Lina Saraum, Francis, Elizabeth and Joseph Mata. (See page 1 photo). Im glad I didnt watch...otherwise, it will be sleepless nights ahead. Manny is still my hero no matter what. He has shown what it takes to be one, wrote another realtor and Filam community leader Mya Talavera. This boxer made good news for us many times. I gained more friends because of him. Pacman was the face of a true hard working, honorable, and humble Filipino. Salamat Manny for all the good ghts, even this one. You gave it all. Mabuhay ang lahing Pilipino! Branigin declared. There are just too many reasons to be proud of this man. One defeat wont change that, tweeted Leigh Precia. Pacquiao has given us so much pride. He doesnt need to prove anything now. Hes already a champ, ever since, added Joy Espia. I just dont think he had it last night and thats okay. Thats okay, said Joyce Vitug of Freemont, Ca. GMA TV said Pacquiao shed tears on national television on Dec. 10, saying that he had let his country down in his devastating knockout loss to Marquez. The low morale, the sadness, I accept that. This is my job . . . But the reaction of the Filipinos, the many who cried, especially my family, it really hurts me, he said in an interview on the GMA network. The former eightdivision world champion wiped tears from his eyes listening to his wife, Jinkee, make a tearful appeal on camera for her husband, who turns 34 next week, to hang up his gloves. Reuters news agency, reporting from Manila, said Filipinos jumped from their seats and watched in horror as Pacquiao fell face rst to the canvas after being knocked out by Marquez. Social media sites were abuzz after the ght, with fans praising both ghters while there was also outpourings of disbelief that Pacquiao lost. It said cinemas, hotels, public parks and even army bases across the Philippines fell silent on Sunday as Pacquiao, the only boxer to win world titles in eight weight divisions, tasted his second straight defeat this year. Im so shocked, I cant believe it when Manny was ahead on points, barber Pedro Varela told Reuters after watching the ght at a cinema in a Manila shopping mall. It was a good ght, Manny gave it all. He was impressive, It was one lucky punch from Marquez. Nothing will change. The people of the Philippines will continue to support Manny. We join them in praying for the return of his strength and determination, said Malacanang spokesman Edwin Lacierda. Interior Secretary Mar Roxas shared many Filipinos sentiments. Its heartbreaking, and as a sportsman, I share the sadness of every Filipino. But he added he was proud that we have Manny Vice President Jejomar Binay also quickly declared his condence that Pacquiao will make a comeback. I am certain that Manny will rise from this adversity a better and stronger person, Binay said in a statement. Speaker Feliciano Belmonte said that even in defeat, Pacquiao was still an inspiration to Filipinos. The 39-year-old Marquez, who had lost twice and drawn once in their three previous meetings, sent Pacquiao crashing to the canvas in the 6th round of their non-title welterweight bout at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas. The Filipino southpaw remained motionless for several minutes before nally getting up, smiling at Marquez and then shaking his opponents hand in
Continued on page 31
30
31
Mindanao who our affected by the storms, but more than that lets start thinking of ways to help, Bautista tweeted. The typhoon was the strongest storm to hit the Philippines this year, packing cyclone-force winds of 210 kilometers per hour. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has called for donations of critical goods for hundreds of evacuation centers across the country. They need woven mats (banig), blankets and childrens clothes, tarpaulins and small generators. Social media coordination of relief efforts is being spearheaded and promoted by the Presidential Communications Development and Strategic Planning Ofce. On Twitter, we enjoin netizens to use the hashtag #reliefPH to amplify information on what is needed by our countrymen in the wake of Typhoon Pablo. For additional information, please tweet or message @dswdserves. Typhoon Pablo comes almost exactly after a year when tropical storm Sendong struck Mindanao, killing more than 1,200 and leaving hundreds of thousands homeless.
Anne Curtis Visayas and Mindanao, Agustin said. Lets pray for Visayas and Some of the Pacmans fans believe Marquez was just lucky to have landed a fatal punch on Pacquiao and believe that the Filipino is still the better boxer. In Cotabato City, Jacky Mondejar, a local boxing analyst and among the rst to train Pacquiao during the early years of his boxing career in North Cotabato, told the Philippine Daily Inquirer that Pacquiaos performance had been diminishing these past two years and he needed to save himself by retiring with still eight belts from eight divisions. Manny Pacquiao needs to retire, Mondejar said. He has to admit that many things preoccupied his career the
an hour and Manny was in excellent spirits. After leaving the hospital, Pacquiao publicist Fred Sternburg said he returned to his suite at the Mandalay Bay hotel for a family dinner followed by a DVD viewing of the ght. Pacquiao (54-5-2, 38 KOs), who was ahead 47-46 on all three judges scorecards at the time of the knockout, also congratulated Marquez (55-6-1, 40 KOs). First and foremost I would like to thank God for keeping Juan Manuel Marquez and me safe during our ght on Saturday night, Pacquiao said in a statement. I want to congratulate Juan Manuel. I have no excuses. It was a good ght and he deserved the victory. I think boxing fans who watched us were winners, too. To all my fans, I would like to thank you for your prayers and assure you that I am ne. I am looking forward to a nice rest and then I will be back to ght. On behalf of (my wife) Jinkee and our family we would like to wish everyone a joyous Christmas and a happy and healthy Pacquiao comforts weeping Jinkee new year. the next day in Las Vegas. Pacquiaos wife, Jinkee, was a picture of anguish after watching her lie unconscious for what could have felt to her like eternity. Jinkee had to be restrained by Pacquiaos promoter, Top Rank chief executive Bob With $23-million assured payoff, a smiling Manny PacArum, from quiao is welcome by Philippine ofcials led by Vice Presgoing into the ident Jejomar Binay on his return to Manila Dec. 12. ring. I went last two years I was sad his over to Jinkee and I comforted ght with Marquez ended this here. She was a little hysterical way, so devastating, he added. and I didnt want her to go to Renowned Filipino forenthe ring. When he got up and we sic scientist Raquel Fortun is realized he was okay, I said she not convinced with the CT scan could go to the ring but she did results clearing Pacquiao after not want to, Arum explained in the ght. the post-ght press conference. In an interview with the
Juan Manuel Marquez clambers rope as sign of victory (background) while Pacquiao (foreground) is down at on the canvas.
Fans in Manila also stunned by knockout of Pacquiao. ABS-CBN News Channel, Fortun of the Department of Pathology of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine could only shake her head when told that Pacquiao is unwilling to quit boxing despite the brutal loss. But Pacquiao has already said he will be back. Ganoon talaga yan, he said. Pwede ka bang pumunta sa isang larangan ng paligsahan na walang natatalo? Dumadating ang panahon na natatalo ka. Pag dumating ang panahon na natalo ka, buong puso mong tanggapin dahil pinasok mo ang trabaho na iyan. (Thats life. Do you go to a contest and are guaranteed you wont lose? There will be times you lose. When that time comes, you have to accept it wholeheartedly because you chose this job) Laban pa ulit, (Lets ght again) he said. (By Rodney J. Jaleco with reports from A. Tugado Marzan, Reuters News Agency, ABS-CBN and GMA-TV)
32
Pro Bono
By A. Enrico (Erick) C. Soriano, Esq.
(Readers are encouraged to send in their legal questions to Atty. Soriano whose email is listed at the end of this column.- ED) QUESTION: I recently received a sum of money as part of a settlement and I would like to use this money to start a small business. What form of legal entity should I choose? ANSWER: Starting a small business is fraught with risks and rewards, and one of the ways that you can limit your potential risks is to choose the appropriate legal entity for your business. There are many types of business entities, and they vary depending on the state in which you choose to form your business. Lets take Virginia, for example. In Virginia, there are several types of business entities over which the Virginia Corporation Commission has jurisdiction. Business owners may choose to establish, among several options, a corporation, a general partnership, or a limited liability company. A corporation is an articial person or legal entity managed by a board of directors. Generally, ofcers, directors, shareholders and members are not liable for the obligations of the corporation. A general partnership is an association of two or more persons in which each partner contributes money, property and/ or services in return for an interest in the general partnership, shares in the prots and losses of the general partnerships business, and has equal rights in the management and conduct of the partnerships business. A limited liability company is an unincorporated association of one or more members (the owners) who share in the prots and losses of the companys business, and is managed in accordance with an operating agreement by one or more members or one or more managers. The choice of a business entity depends on many factors, including tax implications and potential risks or exposure, and should not be taken lightly. In any event, you should consult a qualied corporate or tax attorney to help you make the right decision. QUESTION: I am thinking of creating a nonprot organization to provide educational and other assistance to recent legal immigrants to the U.S. What do I need to do start this process? ANSWER: The rst step necessarily involves creating a legal entity in order to shield you from potential personal liability. If youre planning on operating in Virginia, you will need to establish a nonstock corporation. To do this, you will need to le with the Virginia Corporation Commission what is referred to as Articles of Incorporation of a Virginia Nonstock Corporation (Form SCC819). The Form will require you to provide certain information, including, among other things, the proposed corporate name, which must be distinguishable from the corporate names of entities operating in Virginia; initial directors; registered ofce; and registered agent. You will need to check the availability of your corporate name to ensure that it is distinguishable or unique. If you plan on obtaining a tax-exempt status under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code for your nonprot organization, your Articles of Incorporation must also include certain provisions that can be found in IRS Publication 557, TaxExempt Status for Your Organization. The decision to obtain a tax-exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code is purely discretionary, but having a federal tax-exempt status does have its advantages. For example, nonprot organizations that are classied as 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charities do not pay taxes on their income, and their donors are allowed to deduct their charitable contributions on their annual tax returns. The process for obtaining a federal 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status is resourceintensive, and you should seek competent legal advice before proceeding (see the following discussion). QUESTION: What information and documents do I need to prepare in order obtain a 501(c) (3) tax exemption? ANSWER: The process for obtaining a federal 501(c)(3) taxexempt status is resource-intensive and you will need to provide the IRS with a lot of information and documents. To apply for recognition by the IRS of taxexempt status under 501(c)(3), you will need to le an IRS form called Form 1023, Application for Recognition of Exemption. Some of the information and documents that you will need to provide include, but are not limited to, the following: corporate information (e.g., name of the organization, date of incorporation, contact information, etc.); organizational structure (e.g., is the organization a corporation, a limited liability company, a trust, etc.?); a description of the organizations past, present, and planned activities; compensation and other nancial arrangements with the organizations ofcers, directors, contractors, etc.; the types of goods, services, and funds that your organization provides to individuals and organizations as part of the organizations activities, if any; the organizations corporate history; the specic activities that
JLo wows crowd in Manila. a owy dress. A lucky Pinoy fan was also asked to join the superstar on stage while she was singing. Jennifer rocked the whole arena down with her nale song, her latest single Dance Again and after her world class performance, JLO told her Pinoy fans, Manila, until next time! Surely, every JLO fans will be waiting for a next time. Even celebrities who were spotted in the concert were impressed by Lopez. ABS CBN star Anne Curtis posted in her instagram account, @JLO, I love you so much, you were amazing. I want to dance and sing like you! Mariel Rodriguez, Robin Padillas wife, was awed by the entertainers beauty, she said in her instagram, Jennifer Lopez is BEAUTIFUL!!! the hottest woman i have ever seen!!! The Philippines is the 42nd stop of Jennifer Lopez 55 city Dance Again World Tour. *** Salonga, comes up with another entry this year, a period movie called El Presidente, The Emilio Aguinaldo Story A love story called One More Try is Star Cinema and Viva Films entry this year. The movies female stars Angel Locsin and Angelica Panganiban were already getting good reviews from their performances as shown in the movie trailer. They will be pitted against the Philippines Superstar Nora Aunor for a Best Actress Award. Aunor is the star of another MMFF entry called, Thy Womb! Thy Womb, is an internationally-acclaimed lm by Cannes Film Festival winner, Direk Brillante Mendoza. Yearly MMFF regulars Vic Sotto, Bong Revilla and AiAi Delas Alas will dish out a comedy adventure movie this year with Si Agimat, Si Enteng Kabisote and Me. Movie critics are predicting that it will be a tight battle on the box ofce between this movie and another comedy lm entry called Sisterakas starring box ofce stars Vice Ganda, Kris Aquino and Ai Ai delas Alas. The list would not be complete without Regal Entertainment yearly release of Pinoy Horror ick Shake, Rattle & Roll now on its 14th instalment. This year it stars Vhong Navarro, Dennis Trillo, Herbert Bautista, Carla Abellana, Lovi Poe, Janice De Belen and Iza Calzado. The 38th MMFF will ofcially start on Dec. 25 with the traditional and much-awaited Parade of Stars preceding it on Dec. 24.
Continued on page 39
33
A triumphant comeback
Ever since the one and only Superstar Nora Aunor came back to the Philippines a year and a half ago, she has enjoyed a resurgence in her career. Having been based in Los Angeles, California for eight years, she has been receiving many offers from producers back home to do lm or tv projects but she had rejected every one of them. But when a very good offer came from the TV-5 network, she thought it was just too good to pass it up. Her rst project when she returned was the miniseries Sa Ngalan Ng Ina which was well-received by the viewers, her fans and critics. It also awarded her the best actress award in a drama series from the PMPC recently. La Aunors life and career have been dened by amazing highs and heartbreaking lows. With the success of her indie lm Thy Womb, she has been riding high on the wave of indie lms. The indies has given her career a new lease in life. Thy Womb also awarded her the prestigious Bisato DOro award. It also won best picture at the Venice Film Festival and its director, Brillante Mendoza, best director. Renowned publications such as Variety and The Hollywood Reporter praised Aunors ability to convey emotions with raw honesty. The 59-year-old multiawarded actress is still astounded by the very ecstatic reviews that her indie lm has received and she had not expected to win another international award to add to the other international awards she has won. She has said to have prepared a lot for her role as a Badjao wife. In this lm, she once again uses her signature acting method to maximum effect- she uses her eyes to convey depth and emotion. And that is why she is an actress of extraordinary depth. Philippine showbiz loves a comeback, more so from someone of Aunors iconic status. She has another lm in the upcoming Metro Manila Film Festival Awards, and she will surely be receiving more praises and awards once this lm is released. She is by far the only Filipino actress whose lms have competed in the oldest and most prestigious international lm
Pacquiao ght
OH MY GOD!!!! OH MY GOD!!! Those were most likely the words that came out of our mouths during the most recent Paquiao ght. Filipinos all over the world were glued to their TV as always and it became a tradition and one occasion that brings families together, cook their favorite food, the famous potluck and having fun while waiting for Paquiao ghts. Nine out of ten, we always go home with a big smile and pride as Filipino. All of us were shocked, stunned and in disbelief that it was Paquiao on the canvass suffering from a big blow from Marquez. We became emotional as if he is a family member and we all feel the pain. Then, we all think about it and as Pacquiao humbly accepted his defeat; we all feel better and agreed that it was a good ght, very good ght that we have never seen before. Just one loss did not even lessen our love for Paquiao. We admire him more how gracefully he faced the camera and accepted it despite of what happened. Im a big fan of Paquiao as a ghter and as a person with his humble beginning and I will always be no matter what. I disagree with his political ambition or career however you want to call it but I set that aside. I want to see him as a ghter and as a person and I love him, period. Im not a sports analyst or boxing analyst per se. I cannot talk intelligently on what went wrong and what should have been done. I just want to talk about the ght on a different perspective where all of us can understand in our everyday lives. Come to think of it, that is one of our best traits as a Filipino. No matter how difcult are our problems, no matter how huge is the loss, no matter what challenges we are going through we always accept them and have faith in God. Earthquakes, oods, landslide, typhoon; none of those can defeat us. Most of us have TFC, you can see that people in disaster areas in the Philippines are still smiling and accept what happened, still have faith that everything will be ok. We always believe that there is a reason for everything and this will not be given to us if we cannot handle the circumstances. I just thought about my clients mostly our kababayans who came to me since 2008 and lose their homes through short sales. They were so emotional losing their home which they consider the fruit of their hard work and hard earned possession. Our home is where we spend our life and so many memories attached with it since we started a family. This is the place where we build our dreams and the kids grew up. I always feel the pain but I have to be professional about it. I coached them how to overcome the loss and walk them through the process as smooth and painless as possible. They learned how to accept and move on with their lives. Some of them were constantly in touch and were able to buy their new home again. This time, it is less priced than what they have before, even bigger homes and of course more affordable mortgages. I even see them sometimes and they look so different from the way they looked way back in 2008, 2009 and 2010 during short sales. They send me messages how thankful they are that they made the right choice and now the situation is much better. The moved on with their life, takes care of their nancial situation, much wiser and the goal of owning another home is still number one. THEY DID IT!!! Thats how life is. It cannot be all bed of roses and all luxuries are served to us in a silver platter. We have to work hard for it and sometimes it may not come out the way we wanted it. That is ne, any lessons learned become a foundation which makes us stronger and ready for more blow. But next time, we are more prepared and ready for it. I always love to think, it is not where you are right now; its the falling; its the slipping that makes us as a person. We all have Paquiao in us, no matter what happens; we always accept, move on and FIGHT FIGHT FIGHT!!!! Note: Jocelyn Porteria is a Realtor licensed in V She A. earned a designation of ABR, GRN Accredited Buyers Specialist and GREEN Designation, CDPE Certified Distressed Property and Short Sale Expert, (SFR) Short Sales and Foreclosure Resource. For more info, visit her website at www.jprealdeal. com or call her at 571-432-8335 or email at realdealconsulting@yahoo. com for a free confidential evaluation of your individual situation, property value, and possible options. She is also an accredited agent of Ayala Land, SM Residences and Century Properties in the Philippines
DREAMGIRLS
I attended the press performance of Dreamgirls last week at Signature Theatre which received a well-deserved standing ovation at curtain call. Though this Tony Award winning musical has had many stagings in the D.C. area recently, this particular production seems to be different from the others. The shows director, the very talented Signature Associate Director Matthew Gardiner, brings a fresh, modern interpretation to this iconic musical which was originally staged on Broadway in 1981. It also has been hyped for months and one of the reasons is that this musical is a perfect showcase for its newest sensation, Nova Y. Payton, who plays the role of Efe. She has been making waves ever since her award winning performance in last years Hairspray. This show has more than live up to its hype. And due to its popular demand, Dreamgirls has been extended till Jan. 13. Dreamgirls, with a knockout score by Henry Kreiger and a solid book and lyrics by Tom Eyen, tells of a girl group named the Dreamettes in 1960s Chicago who rise to meteoric fame. They are hired as back-up singers for big R & B star, James Thunder Early(the brilliant Cedric Neal) but soon break out from Jimmy when they meet and managed by the amoral Curtis Taylor Jr. (Sydney James Harcourt). Although Efe has the more superior vocals, Curtis puts Deena in the lead for her exquisite beauty and equally exquisite vocals. When Efe leaves the group and the Dreams become international sensations, the girls each go through their own dramas. Eyens book explores the upside and donwside of fame. This show has an outstnading cast but it seems to belong to Nova Y. Payton with her clarion
belt and extraordinary depth. She carries the show as the putupon Efe and you just cant take your eyes off her whenever she is onstage. In the signature song, (And Im Not Telling You) Im Not Going, she pours out all her heartbreak and despair and towards the end of the song, she tears into it with a ferocity that she threatened to blow the roof off of the theater. She also stops the show in the emotional Wistful and the disco-tinged One Night Only. Nova was a revelation in Hairspray and here she has owned the iconic role of Efe, one of the great female roles ever written for the stage. Other cast members are Shayla Simmons who hits all the right notes as Deena Jones, Crystal Joy as the third Dreams member, Lorrell. Cedric Neal as Efes brother, C.C. and Cedric Neal who all but steals the show as the self-destructive, narcissistic Jimmy Thunder Early. He imbues relentless energy, skilled dance moves and impeccable comedic timing in an incredibly demanding role. Kudos as well to the very talented designer Frank Labovitz, who has created sumptuous gowns and costumes that helps tell the stories. The Dreams have 20 costumes each and they must change from one outt to another in a matter of seconds with the great trickery from Chris Lees lighting. The visual stunning sets of neon lights and glitz ,from Scenic Designer Adam Koch, is also one of the highlights of the show. The knockcout score also includes such gems as Cadillac Car, Family, You Are My Dream, I Meant You No Harm, Hard To Say Goodbye, (My Love), and the titular song. Dreamgirls is one of the greatest shows in Hollywood and Broadwau history. DREAMGIRLS directed by Matthew Gardiner at Signature Theatre 4200 Campbell Ave. Arlington, Va. 703-820-9771 http://www.siganture-theatre.org/
34
CHICKEN MARSALA
This dish is ideal to serve this coming Christmas holiday; just double the recipe. Choosing organic chicken for this recipe is worth the effort - the avor is truly appealing. I have now been using organic or halal chicken for all my chicken dishes, as I believe this is much healthier to serve to my customers. 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon chopped thyme 1/4 teaspoon chopped parsley 1/4 cup breadcrumbs vegetable oil 8 large pieces button mushrooms 1/2 cup Marsala wine 1/4 cup sherry thigh (buttery cut), leaving it attached on the opposite side. This way the chicken can be cooked through evenly. Then mix together the our, breadcrumbs, salt, thyme and parsley in a small bowl. Coat lightly both sides of the thighs in this our mixture. Preheat a large non-stick skillet with 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil until hot but not hazing. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook both sides until they have some grill marks. Add the mushrooms, lower heat to
Ingredients:
4 boneless and skinless chicken thighs (organic preferred) 1/2 cup our
Methods:
Cut through the thickest side of each boneless chicken
medium, and continue cooking for 2 minutes. Pour in the Marsala wine and sherry and cover the skillet and let the chicken simmer for
8 to 10 minutes, turning once, until the chicken is fully cooked. (Using a thermometer, the internal temperature of the cooked chicken should be at least 165 F.) Slice crosswise and garnish before serving for a nicer presentation. Editors Note: Master Chef Evelyn: 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the U.S., 2009, Filipina Womens Network; MHC Most Outstanding Migrant Award in Culinary Arts, 2011; PAFC Dakila Special Achievement Award, 2011; Owner/Chef, Philippine Oriental Market & Deli, Arlington, Virginia; Founder and President of CHEW (Cancer Help Eat Well) Foundation, a 501 (c) (3) public charity formed to help and cook pro-bono for Filipino-Americans who are afflicted with cancer and other serious illnesses; Culinary writer; Member, Les Dames dEscoffier International, Washington DC Chapter; Member, International Cake Exploration Society, Master Chef, French Cuisine and Patisserie, Le Cordon Bleu, London.
CHRISTMAS WISH
The Santa Claus at the shopping mall was very surprised when Clarita, a young lady of about 20 years walked up and sat on his lap. Now, we all know that Santa doesnt usually take requests from adults, but she smiled very sweetly at him, so he asked her, What do you want for Christmas? Something for my mother, please, replied Clarita pleadingly. Something for your mother? Well, thats very loving and thoughtful of you, smiled Santa. What would you like me to bring her? Without skipping a beat, Clarita answered, A son-in-law please. Dear Abby... I have a man I cannot trust. He cheats so much, Im not even sure the baby Im carrying is his. Caller: No, you idiot! This is her husband!
LUCKY
In front of a delicatessen, an art connoisseur noticed a mangy little kitten lapping up milk from a saucer. The saucer, he realized, was a rare and precious piece of pottery. He strolled into the store and offered two dollars for the cat. Its not for sale, said the proprietor. Look, said the collector, that cat is dirty and undesirable, but Im eccentric. I like cats that way. Ill raise my offer to ten dollars. Its a deal, said the proprietor, and pocketed the ten on the spot. For that sum Im sure you wont mind throwing in the saucer, said the connoisseur. The kitten seems so happy drinking from it. No way, said the proprietor rmly. Thats my lucky saucer. From that saucer, so far this week Ive sold 34 cats.
Damn... I think Im going to pass out. Dispatcher: Sir, where are you calling from? Caller: On my cell, and Im at the intersection of Monroe St. and Lee Highway. Dispatcher: Sir, an ambulance is on the way. Are you an asthmatic? Caller: No. Dispatcher: What were you doing before you started having trouble breathing? Caller: I was running from the Police!
Interviewer: At kayo po naman, mister, ano ho ang masasabi ninyo tungkol sa shampoo namin? Mister: Isa lang ang masasabi ko sa buwisit na shampoo niyo. Diyan nagkalagas-lagas ang lahat ng buhok ko. Hayup na shampoong yan ginawa akong katulad ni Bembol Roco. Buwisit talaga!
KABAYO
May kulasisi mister. Habang nagkakape during breakfast, binatukan siya bigla ni Misis. Mister: Aray ko... ang sakit nun, ah! Bakit ba? Misis: Ano itong nakasulat na Bianca sa napkin na galing sa bulsa mo? Mister: (Palusot) Ay naku, pangalan ng kabayo iyan sa karera. (Nagsori si misis.) Kinabukasan habang nagkakape uli sin mister ay may tumawag sa telefono at si misis ang sumagot. Pagbalik niya ay binatukan niya ng mas malakas kaysa kahapon si mister. Mister: Aray ko! Bakit na naman ba? Misis: Yung kabayo mo, tumawag sa telefono. Hayop ka!
ALAGA
Bisaya: Hulaan mo alaga kong hayop... nagsisimula sa liter I. Joey: Isda? Bisaya: Dili man! Joey: Ibon? Bisaya: Malapit na. Joey: Ano nga, sirit na! Bisaya: Igol. (Eagle daw.)
9-11
Dispatcher: 9-11... Whats the nature of your emergency? Caller: My wife is pregnant and her contractions are only two minutes apart now. Dispatcher: Is this her rst child?
SHAMPOO
Interviewer: Misis, ano ho ang masasabi ninyo sa shampoo namin? Misis: Dalawa lang ang masasabi ko sa shampoo ninyo. Diyan talaga lumambot at gumanda ang buhok ko.
BISAYA
Grabe talaga ang mga Bisaya, mahirap intindihin... sa kanila ang malambot SUP, ang
9-11 AGAIN
Caller: Im having trouble breathing... Im out of breath.
35
everal years ago I had the misfortune of winning a gag gift at a friends annual cookie exchange. I had not won anything before then so I was thrilled. I thought my luck had turned. When she shed it out of its box, everyone was speechless. I was in a quandary. I was desperate, grasping for nice words to say. It was difcult to be gracious. It was one of the most hideous objects made of the cheapest plastic. No one knew what it was, not even the giver. A pair of amorous lovers on a stroll was the base for a lamp that didnt work. The colors were the brightest orange and red and yellow. The woman wore an orange frock and the man had a pink jacket over a yellow shirt. Their white skin would be the envy of geishas from Kyoto. But instead of making the lovers attractive, it made them unnaturally pasty. Whoever designed and painted it must have been color-blind. If it was by design, then he was appallingly cruel. It sat on my coffee table for a few weeks. I fought the urge to throw it in the garbage bin. A devilish eureka moment ashed through my brain. Why not gift it to my balae (my daughters mother-in-law) that Christmas. I didnt know if her sense of humor was as quirky as mine so I asked my brand new sonin-law if it would be ok. He and my daughter both clapped their hands in agreement and with anticipated pleasure. They were even willing to hand deliver the THING. When Mary opened the box, her smile wavered. They said she blustered and stammered but nally admitted defeat. She was heard to say, Myrna has great taste. So I guess this must be a great and tasteful present. She placed it on a table in a room they hardly used.
The following Christmas she handed me a big box which was elegantly wrapped and tied with exquisite ribbons. When I opened it, there they were, the amorous lovers. She had added a piece of ornament to beautify them. This time Mary made sure she was present to see the look on my face. I was doubled over in laughter and gasping for air. I had found me a partner in crime. A legend was born. It has been eight years since that rst gag Christmas gift. Sometimes two years would pass without an exchange. Im gazing at it now, looking so expectant on the side table. It is almost covered with tinsels and mini ornaments and red bows. Theres even a mini coca cola can in one corner. It is Marys favorite drink. Far from disguising the ugly, they have added to the hideousness. But it has now taken on an aura of invincibility. It almost looks beautiful. What to do? Maybe Ill keep it this year. Mercy me, I think the pair smiled at me. And why should they not? They have given us mirth and laughter through the years; something that made gift giving exciting and new for our combined families. The surprise may be gone, but in its stead we now look forward to what new trimmings have been added to it. Its like a treasure hunt. It is now the poster boy for foster gifts without a home. I am reminded of one of Richard Harris songs, Bless the song that no one sings. Bless the rose that never grows.trees without limbs. And lovers such as I. Yes, bless them, and bless this gift without a home, the gift that never quits. May your Christmas be lled with wonder ever true; and may the New Year bring you joy with a friendship tree that ever grew.
Rochela, who is driving from St. Petersburg, Florida with her Black Lab, Buddy, is proud of her Food for the God dessert. My children always enjoy our family conversations over food and they profess that the foods that I cook are their comfort foods. Oh, my angels! I could not ask for more. Merry Christmas I will greet everyone Merry Christmas, and not Happy Holidays because Christmas is what we are celebrating for on December 25, the birth of the Infant Jesus. We hope to nd in our hearts the spirit and true meaning of this occasion. It is not just one of the holidays that are celebrated every year when we take a rest from work in memory of an event or a person like Thanksgiving Day, July 4th, Memorial Day, Presidents Day or Martin Luther Kings Day to name a few. The season of Advent is the perfect time to respond to the message of Christmas and deepen our understanding of the ardent traditions. Gift giving to the less fortunate and disadvantaged, for one, is a wonderful opportunity to take our content to another level of generosity. There are many other programs that we can support in terms of personal time, talent, and mone-
tary contribution. Hence, giving of gifts as most of us do is not limited to family and friends only. Christmas time is also an appropriate time to be thankful for countless blessings that we received the whole year. For disappointments and challenges along the way, it is a comfort to believe that things happen for reasons beyond our human minds.
Christmas Bonding
This one of our family Christmas traditions is priceless. My four children are home on Christmas for one week but three of those seven days are spent cooped in the connes of our home just eating, chatting, catching up and sharing with our experiences that happened the whole year. Our talks give us a chance to know each others short and long term plans. For about ve years now, my married daughter and her husband with their pet Coco were hosting our Christmas celebrations. Rowena and Austin requested to carry on with the tradition. With the bonding, we cherish and tremendously enjoy our opening of gifts with an almost child-like anticipation. Have a Wonderful Christmas!
Ed Tiong (back, far left), coordinator of the Filipino Ministry of Northern Virginia, presided over the Simbang Gabi preparations recently. Also shown, seated, from left: Luisa Robinson, Loulou Rosales, Cora Arca, Lilia Frilles. Back: Margot Atilano, Ed Medina. Simbang Gabi schedule is in Calendar of Events, page 15 (Photo by Jennie L. Ilustre)
36 Editorial
areas of the world. Scientists predict that among cities to be inundated by the rising sea would be Manila. And at press time, the Philippines was being pummeled by a superstorm that would dwarf Sendong. Its name is Pablo. If we still survive all these, we still have to look to the next four years of Obama which many Republicans in particular predict will also be a disaster. As one frustrated Romney supporter puts it on Facebook recently, she will just go back to the Philippines. This is how she puts it: The Latinos and the African-Americans gave him another 4 years. But hell never join those guys in Mount Rushmore. You know who those guys are, their principles. Obama isnt like them. Hes out to change America, borne out of his difcult life and the dreams of his father. Keep your eyes peeled. Your America, will never be the same again. Hindi ako apektado diyan dahil kaya kong umuwi sa atin. Ikaw, di mo kaya, gusto mo nang manatili dito. And heres another one who seems to be spoiling for war. I dont know if you simply want to present the Prezs side or youre actually spoiling for a verbal warfare. Tingnan natin ang galing ng ating Presidente sa susunod na apat na taon, kung hindi siya ma-impeach. Guerra
going to church religiously and are praying hard for better days to come. In Prince Georges county, another Tsismoso reports, things there are very normal. In fact, a retired Pinoy leader is quietly running a Bingo contest at the Philippine Multi-Cultural Center. The very vocal Jun Pedery has been very quiet lately. Eric Lachica continues to get supporters and enemies. In Virginia, another Charismatic prayer group, called Koinania Foundation, Inc. (KFI) announced its presence. It says Filipinos are the chosen people of the Holy Eucharist. The same reporter says things are looking good in the Filam community in the Greater Washington D.C. area. For instance, he asserts, things are moving towards the unication of rival Filam groups. This reporter predicts the revival of a stronger Kapampangan Association which was in turmoil many years ago, the unication of rival factions and that other rival groups will kiss and make up, not literally, of course. *** Oh heck. Lets forget these negative rumblings. Tsismoso is sure we will survive these bad predictions. Tsismosos Oracle is more powerful than the Mayans, the politicians and the Global Warmers. We will still be alive and celebrate Christmas like before. Lets all attend the Misa de Gallo, join charismatic groups, and enjoy life..etcetera etcetera.
Opinion 37
Vegas Waterloo
I
Stories from a Teacher
still remember my rst-year high school teacher, a cute, dimunitive woman who looked no older than my classmates. After the principal introduced her to our class, some of the boys emboldened by her shy, soft-spoken demeanor
Jonathan Flores thought they would have a little fun by plotting some kind of welcome. So, they hatched a plan during lunch and got the word out to the rest of the class. The next morning, soon as our teacher walked in, we lustily burst into a song that we used to sing in grade school: Pretty bird, so dainty and small. After the roudy rendition, we expected our teacher to laugh with us, maybe even surprise us with her sense of humor. But, no, she didnt say anything. She simply proceeded with the days lesson. Her reaction was the same when we serenaded her again the following day. On the fourth day, the principal came to our class to announce that our teacher had resigned. He scolded us for being mean and cruel, that we should be ashamed of ourselves for hounding her out. She was replaced by a much-older man who wasted no time reading to us the riot act. From then on, we behaved like lesser mortals. Class discipline was the order of the day. High school classrooms in the Philippines are of course a lot different from American classrooms. Far, far different in many ways. Both my parents were professional school teachers in the Philippines who enjoyed teaching but they endured a much harsher school environment when they taught high school students here in the U.S. They retired earlier than planned because they could no longer take the students insults and
insolence, their lack of discipline and respect. Our daughter, too, is a school teacher for more than 10 years now. She teaches music education to students from fth to eighth grades at the Chapin School in Princeton, New Jersey. We know she loves teaching but she puts in long hours every day, including weekends. Shed stay up nights preparing lessons, grading papers and writing evaluations. Shes also the mother of a six-year-old girl and a 14-month old toddler. We know her salary is not commensurate to her heavy workload. We often wonder how she does it. And we worry. About her health, state of mind and time spent with her family. I must confess I had no idea what really goes on inside a high school classroom here in America until I read Stories from a Teacher. Written by Jonathan Flores of College Park, MD., the self-published e-book is a ctionalized account of his four years as an English teacher at the Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Greenbelt, Maryland the same school he attended years earlier. A fresh graduate from the University of Maryland in 2008, the 21-yearold Filipino American teacher surprised his Ninth grade students when he walked into their lives that day in September. Like my rst year high school teacher, Jonathan was only a few years older than his students, young enough to be like them, young enough to be made fun of. His patience was tested at every turn. By his own account, he had been told to Go-f myself once a year since he started. That is a total of four Go-fyourselves, he writes. And then theres the workload that leaves him tired and exhausted from long hours and weekends grading papers with absolutely no personal time for himself. Roosevelt High, of course, is not like the more afuent high schools in normal suburbia. About 75 percent of the students are African American, another 15 percent are Hispanics and many come from underprivileged and poor families. He had one student drop out of school to have her baby. In one year alone, four gay students attempted suicide. Im trying to teach kids that
t was a straight right bazooka punch that connected to Manny Pacquiaos left jaw and suddenly my heart beat stopped, or so it seemed. For the rst time in his boxing career, the Philippines living boxing legend fell on his face like a log and was motionless for a minute or two. A couple of years ago, a Filipino boxer became paralyzed after suffering an injury from a ght. I feared for the worst. Luckily, his customary kneeling at the ring corner for a moment of prayer before each ght paid off. God smiled on Pacquiao and he recovered consciousness. In defeat he sounded like a classy sportsman. He accepted his misfortune and complimented the skills of his adversary. What now, Manny Pacquiao? At 34 years old, time may have nally caught up with him. It always does, even with people who think they have the genes of Superman. As with many great athletes, the early handwritings on the wall are often ignored. Muhammad Ali did not quit the ring until it was obvious even to his dog that the buttery could no longer oat and the bee had lost its sting. The exciting Sugar
Ray Leonard also overstayed his claim to boxing glory suffering the humiliation of losing to ghters he could easily terrorize in his prime. His family and people who care about his welfare will likely suggest that he hang up his gloves for good while he is still in one piece. He is more than nancially secure. He can provide a comfortable life to his family without resorting to the business of graft and corruption in his part time job as a congressman. He will go down in history as the Philippines greatest sportsman. His record of ten world boxing titles may never be equaled. He is a rags to riches overachiever who lives rich but is generous with those who still live in rags. He has united Filipinos all over the country, Muslim and communist rebels, soldiers, street criminals and law abiding citizens give peace a chance
when Pacquiao steps in the ring to ght foreign adversaries. And in his media interviews in America, he has shown that FilipinoVisayan English is cool. While retiring appears to be the logical thing to do, my gut feeling is that he has not thrown the last punch against his erstwhile ring nemesis Juan Manuel Marquez. He was open to the idea of a fth ght when he was interviewed before he left the ring after his knockout. He was beating Marquez to the punch in the fourth and fth rounds before he got stung by what he thought was a weakening cobra. He thought he could have won that ght and rightly so. And this will pester his mind from day to day. He could not accept that he will just walk away with an ignominious ending to his personal story, his face And so Manny will lick
Continued on page 39
Continued on page 39
hone future Pacmans. If hes truly aspiring for higher political positions, this might be the time for him to spend more time in picturesque Saragani. This might be Mindanao, where people used to shoot up theater screens when they see villains beating up their matinee hero, but politics require more than the peoples adulation. But I dont believe that wont happen. Pacquiao is, rst and foremost, a ghter and true ghters dont quit. He built his character, fortune and fame atop the ring. His toughness is rooted in the years growing up poor in the streets of the Philippines wild, wild west supporting a single mother and his siblings. People like that dont quit. Pacquiao will have a lot of negotiating to do with future opponents, sponsors and per-
haps the most difcult, with Jinkee and Mommy Dionisia who have wanted him to hang up the gloves for a long time. Before the Pacquiao-Marquez IV, coach Freddie Roach said the Filipino champ still had two or three more ghts left in him. After what happened last week, that assessment obviously needs to be re-visited. But if there is anything that could convince Pacquiao to climb down, it would be the Filipino public. If there is a clamor for him to retire, theres just a chance he might accede because if any impulse is stronger for a professional pugilist than the smell of conquest, that would have to be public approval. I think Filipinos owe their hero a happy, comfortable retirement. Its time we got our inspiration from our own collective toils and achievements.
38
Immigration Notes
December 15, 2012 VISA PRIORITY DATES FOR THE PHILIPPINES DECEMBER 2012
FAMILY-SPONSORED PREFERENCES First: Unmarried sons/daughters of US citizens Oct. 08, 1997 Second: A: Spouses/minor children of permanent residents: Aug. 22, 2010 B: Unmarried sons/daughters 21 years of age or older of permanent residents Mar. 22, 2002 Third: Married sons/daughters of citizens Aug. 01, 1992 Fourth: Brothers/sisters of citizens Mar. 22, 1989 EMPLOYMENT-BASED PREFERENCES First: Priority workers Current Second: Professionals holding advanced degrees or persons of exceptional ability Jan. 01, 2012 Third: Skilled workers, professionals Aug. 15, 2006 Other Workers Aug. 15, 2006 Fourth: Current Certain Religious Workers Unavailable Fifth: Employment creation/ (Million or half-million dollar investor) Current
for non-professional jobs that are seasonal or short contractual duration. For example, a laborer in a construction job that is required to be completed in ten months. If the employers need is indenite, it is difcult to justify temporary employment. The employer also has to go through a labor certication process that requires advertising the job to prove that there are no qualied American citizens or permanent residents who are interested. H2-B is good for one year only. It may be extended but the employer has to demonstrate that the reason for extension was unforseen during the initial application. Some may nd luck in foreign embassies and international organizations. Change to A or G status are usually done by the employers without expense to the alien. It is no longer possible to change to student visa unless the alien has previously declared himself to be an intending student when he applied for a visitors visa. For those who are single, marriage to a U.S. citizen makes one eligible to immediately apply for adjustment to perma-
M
The irony of Christmas
MANILA he irony of Christmas is that while its the happiest time of the year, it can be the loneliest for many people. The suicide rate in some countries rises during the holiday season. Filipinos love Christmas. After New Years, Filipinos cant wait until its Christmas again. The countdown to December 25 begins immediately on January 2. This is no exaggeration, Filipinos are crazy about Christmas. Here in the Philippines, the ber months announce the formal start of the Yuletide. The moment people turn the calendar from August to September, the Christmas carols start wafting into the air. Actually, wafting is the wrong word. The songs blare out of every radio station. Shopping malls bring out the red colors of Christmas and deck out every possible space in their emporium. And the Christmas tunes attack the eardrums nonstop all day-long. Television news signs off with a countdown to December 25 about 60 days before Christmas day, which puts the start of the countdown to October 25. I dont quite understand this practice. Cynics say its to promote Christmas buying, as if Filipinos need to be reminded. Filipinos are generally a social bunch and they know how to hold each other together, look out for one another, and keep themselves emotionally strong and together. Pre-Christmas (which, as Ive noted, starts very early in the last quarter of the year) socializing occurs regularly. Friends, ofce colleagues and families keep the season merry by getting together for drinks and meals. Its a long esta for Filipinos. Filipinos abroad are no different. Maybe not as early to celebrate as their folks back home, but quite in the Christmas mood and mode early too. Its the social groups that keep Filipinos together. Drinking buddies, mahjong or poker group mates, bowling chums, tennis associations, and other types of kinship groups have their respective Christmas parties and gatherings. (Actually, when I was still living in Washington, my tennis group didnt need a formal occasion
to celebrate. It was like after every tennis outing, the next item on the agenda was drinking and food until its time to go to work.) Filipinos know how to keep themselves amused and happy. But what about those who are loner types and dont have the usual support groups? This is more prevalent among westerners, many of whom are away from their families because of work or other circumstances (like moving to where ones spouse lives). The vaunted mobility of North Americans in search of jobs around the continent has sometimes resulted in isolated, insulated and lonely people, with very few people around them to provide emotional and moral support. Christmas for people in these circumstances is often a lonely time and place. Even when theyre successful in their lives, many people often have nobody waiting for them at home. Not because theyre unsociable but because their jobs have taken them to isolated or unfamiliar places where they have few friends or acquaintances. Or where theyre based in small communities that afford them few opportunities to make social or emotional connections. And then there are the more unfortunate ones whose lives are miserable because of bad nancial circumstances. Or because theyve abandoned their families and are now in dire straits or theyre the ones whove been abandoned. Just like the shoeless man in New York City who apparently prefers to remain shoeless because the shoes would just be objects of envy by fellow street people who would harm or kill him for them. Even among Filipinos, there may be those who nd themselves in such dire circumstances, especially in the current economic hard times. Lets hope the number of Filipinos who are bereft of social and emotional support are few, if at all. Ah, Christmas...its supposed to be the happiest time of the year. But its not always so for many people. Hope you, the readers, are keeping warm during this holiday season and
ost of the people who come for a visit to the U.S. intend to return to their home country. There are some however who fall in love with America it pains them to part with Lady Liberty. What are possible options for a tourist who would like to remain in the US legally? A college degree holder has the potential to change to H-1B status.. This is a non-immigrant status that allows employment. The alien must rst nd a job offer for a position that can only be performed by a college degree holder whose education is relevant to the job duties. For example, and engineering job for an engineering graduate, but not a bricklayer job for an engineering graduate. In some instances, experience could substitute for a college degree. H1-B is initially issued for 3 years and can be extended to six years. Due to quota limitations, nding an employer who is willing to sponsor the alien does not assure a favorable outcome. If the alien is not a college degree holder, H2-B is an option. This is a non-immigrant status that also allows employment in jobs that do not require a college degree and can be completed in not more than one year. H2-B is
Continued on page 39
Continued on page 39
MANILA very December 8, Filipino and Catholics elsewhere honor Mary under the title of Immaculate Conception. However, many raise eyebrows when gently reminded that Marys genealogy and childhood, in the Muslim Koran, is more detailed than in the four Gospels. The Koran, in fact, mentions Mary 54 times, notes the Vaticans ofcial newsapaper LOsservatore Romano ( 13 April 1978, page 4 ) An entire chapter or Sura 19 focuses on a woman that Christians call our tainted natures solitary boast. Miriam of Nazareth lived by the Jewish faith. In the Koran, Christ is called repeatedly Issa ibn Maryam-Jesus son of Mary, writes Giancarlo Finazzo in the Vatican paper...( This) name... perhaps is the best known one in the Islamic world. Every child is touched by the devil as soon as he is born and this contact makes him cry, says a Hadith attributed to the Prophet Mohamed and verses
35-37 of Sura III,.. The only exceptions are Mary and her Son. After this premise it is not surprising that... the Immaculate Conception, is univocally recognized..the article adds. The extraordinary person of Mary and her pure life (III, 42 to LXVI, 12). set her, with her Son, above every other created being. . Indeed, Islamic tradition holds that Jesus and his mother are the only two human souls who were not tainted by sin at birth, the Economist magazine notes. New appreciation of Mary stems from the very arena in which Protestants historically pride themselves most: careful
and full reading of Scriptures.. Time magazine notes in its cover story Hail Mary .x Mary stood by the Cross. And she gures in a skein of appearances longer and more strategically placed than any other character in scriptures, Princeton University professor of New Testament literature, Beverly Gaventa, points out. x She is present in all key situations: at Jesus birth, at his death and in the Upper Room, Gaventa writes in Personalities of the New Testament. Whether in Egypt , Nazareth or Cana , there isnt a gure comparable to her. The new thinkers are exploring the implications of Marys excruci-
Continued on page 39
39
rate on the $250,000.00 earners will actually hit many small business owners and will have negative consequences on job creation. Who makes sense? A study by Ernst and Young, an independent business consulting rm found that increasing tax rates on individuals earning above $250,000.00 will cost approximately 300,000 jobs to the economy. We can look across the Atlantic Ocean for guidance too. The former government of Gordon Brown in Great Britain increased the tax rates for millionaires from 40% to 50% in 2010. The result? The number of taxpayers declaring a million Euros decreased from 16,000 to 6,000 and the amount of actual revenue collected from these millionaires went down from 13.4 billion to 6.5 billion. What gives? Purita Gonzales, and my neighbors Rey and Tessie Pasa. And of course to Bert Alfaro, Wary Azarcon, Jon Melegrito and ALL my colleagues on Manila Mail, who soldier on to publish this newspaper, without material reward. Manila Mail is a vital part of the Filipino community in Metro Washington. . --- signaling a comeback of Our Lady, which the late Jesuit theologian Karl Rahner foresaw? Then, there was Blessed John Paul II Some claim no pontiff in the entire history of Catholicism has had so strong and articulates a devotion to Mary. In todays charged atmosphere of tension between Muslims and non-Muslims, isnt it prudent, let alone essential, to attempt to nd common ground between these clashing Abrahamic traditions?, asks Heather Abraham who wrote the book: The Muslim Jesus ( 2001), Marys shared importance offers an opportunity for interfaith dialogue. Easing of tension is an enormous undertaking because religious differences are often used to justify anger and distrust. Maybe, just maybe, religious similarities may lessen the divide. Is Mary that bridge? The question of the day is: Why are the media ( Western and Eastern) and religious clerics (Christian and Muslim) not focusing on the commonalities and unifying aspects of Abrahamic cousins? . ( Email: juan_mercado77@ yahoo.com )
Mary an afrmation that there is no limit to proximity of God that any human can attain...Surely, that is reason enough, for people of any faith, to feel reverence for historys foremost Jewish mother. Shortly after Vatican II, a period of Marian silence descended, recalls Catalino Arevalo, SJ, of Ateneo University . We, in the Philippines , did not go through that phase. Churches in former communist Eastern Europe have not experienced the eclipse of Mary either, notes this Filipino theologian. What strikes a mainland China visitor, who gets in contact with Catholics there, is that veneration of Mary has never been stronger. Once known as Christendom, Europe built the Continents loveliest cathedrals from Chartres to Notre Dame. Now, Europe suffers from a vacuum of faith, Los Angeles Times notes. The Gallup Millennium Survey reveals barely 20 percent of West Europeans attend church services once a week. Are the new Marian shrines ---: Medjugorje in Yugoslavia ; Akita in Japan ; Kibeho in Rwanda and Cuenca in Ecuador
40