A tale of two reefs

PerryScope
By Perry Diaz

In a matter of days, the Philippine government took strong actions against the two most powerful countries in the world – the United States and the People’s Republic of China.  Now, that’s what I call “wow, wow!” Yep, a double wow, indeed.  But as it turned out, the country was hit with a double whammy! 

The first whammy was China’s seizure of the Scarborough Shoal (Panatag Shoal) that is within the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).   Last August, after China tricked the Philippines into withdrawing her vessels from the lagoon, China roped off the only entrance into the lagoon; thus, preventing other fishermen from getting in.  Only Chinese fishing boats are allowed to enter the lagoon.  In effect, China has taken de facto possession of a piece of Philippine territory… without firing a shot.  

Bajo de Masinloc, as Scarborough Shoal was named as far back as 1734 during the Spanish era, is 124 miles west of Masinloc, Zambales in the South China Sea.  The shoal is a triangle-shaped chain of reefs with a circumference of 34 miles and an area of 58 square miles.  Many of the reefs are just below water at high tide.  The lagoon contains a large variety of fish and other sea life including endangered species such as sea turtles, sharks, and giant clams. 

Arbitration

Helplessly unable to defend her territory, let alone recover those she already lost, the Philippines had no other recourse but to turn to the United Nations to resolve the territorial dispute.

Last January 22, the Philippines’ Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario formally notified China that the Philippines is bringing the case before the Arbitral Tribunal of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).  The issue is China’s claim to about 90% of the entire South China Sea delineated by an imaginary – and arbitrary – “nine-dash line” drawn by China.    

In reaction, the Chinese ambassador to the Philippines, Ma Keqing, reasserted China’s “indisputable sovereignty” over the South China Sea.  However, she said that China supports a negotiated settlement through “peaceful means.”  Well, with several Chinese warships permanently deployed inside the lagoon, “peaceful means” might just be another convenient tool from China’s bag of tricks.   

Doublespeak

Last January 28, China’s supreme ruler, Xi Jinping, told the 25 members of the ruling Communist Party’s Central Committee Political Bureau (Politburo): “China will stick to the path of peaceful development. No foreign country should expect us to make a deal on our core interests and hope we will swallow the bitter pill that will damage our sovereignty, security and development interests.”  And as before, “core national interest” is not negotiable, peacefully or otherwise. 

As China had demonstrated in the past three decades, her salami-slicing tactics of grabbing other countries’ territories – Paracel Islands, Mischief Reef, Macclesfield Bank, Scarborough Shoal -- have been successful. And now her biggest – and most ambitious – goal is to annex the South China Sea and the East China Sea all the way to the Okinawa Trough as a prolongation of China’s continental shelf.  That would be the fulfillment of China’s dream.

Evidently, China’s “talk and take” approach is paying dividends… until Japan decided to use force -- if necessary -- to counter China’s aggressive attempt to grab the Senkaku islands near Okinawa in the East China Sea. 

Recently, during Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida’s visit to the U.S., Secretary of State Hillary Clinton issued a “veiled warning” to China not to challenge Japan’s control of the Senkaku islands.  She said that the islands were under Japan’s control and therefore protected under the U.S.-Japan Treaty.  Her remarks instantly ignited a war hysteria in China.  Xi Jinping ordered the People’s Liberation Army to get ready for war, quickly!

Tubbataha Reef

Meanwhile, about 600 south in the Sulu Sea, Tubbataha Reef is getting a lot of attention since an American warship, the minesweeper USS Guardian, ran aground in its vicinity.  The reef consists of two coral atolls five miles apart and each reef has a single small islet protruding from the water.

More than 1,000 species inhabit the reef of which many are considered endangered including manta rays, tortoises, clownfish, lionfish, and sharks.  There are 350 coral species and 500 fish species.  It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Asia and inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.  It is called the “Crown Jewel of the Coral Triangle.” 

On January 17, 2013, the USS Guardian ran aground on the reef.  An initial visual inspection showed that at least 10 meters of the reef were damaged.  Aerial photographs made by the Philippine military showed the “ship’s bow sitting atop corals in shallow turquoise waters, with the stern floating in the deep blue waters.”  The warship was bound for Puerto Princesa after routine refueling and supply replenishment in Subic Bay.  

Initial reaction from Malacañang defended the Guardian’s presence in the protected area. “I confirmed with Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin that there was such a port call request made for Puerto Princesa by USS Guardian,” presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda said.  “There was a request made and the request was granted.”

Apology

The following week, U.S. ambassador to the Philippines Harry Thomas Jr. apologized for the incident.  When the apology was relayed to President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III -- who was attending the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos, Switzerland at that time – he told reporters who were covering his trip that an apology was not enough.  He wanted a thorough investigation to ascertain how the USS Guardian ran aground on the reef.

But the United States Navy already made its commitment to do everything it can to repair the damage caused by the minesweeper.  Didn’t he know that?  Yet P-Noy continued to question, “How it could happen when the minesweeper, a U.S. made vessel, was supposed to be possessing of high technology military navigation devices?” He said that the U.S. would have to comply with Philippine laws regarding the incident.  “They violated it, there are penalties. Then they will have to address all of these violations of our pertinent laws,” he said.

But P-Noy didn’t realize that the Tubbataha Protected Area Management Board (TPAMB) had already fined the U.S. Navy for “unauthorized entry.”  However, it did not disclose the amount of the penalty.  Under Philippine law, the maximum penalty for unauthorized entry is of up to a year in prison plus a fine of up to P300,000 ($7,300).  The TPAMB decided not to include the jail option in the penalty.

VFA

When a reporter asked P-Noy about the call of some groups to review the Visiting Forces Agreement (VFA) between the U.S. and the Philippines in the aftermath of the Tubbataha incident, he toned down and said that the VFA only governs the conduct of visiting American troops when they're in military exercises in the Philippines.  He explained that the VFA has no connection to the Tubbataha incident; it’s a question about violating the country’s ecological laws. 

Meanwhile, Fernando Hicap, the chairman of the Pambansang Lakas ng Kilusang Mamamalakaya ng Pilipinas, called for the filing of a “millennium class suit” against the US Navy for damaging the reef, saying that the US should pay the country a considerable amount following the destruction of the reef.  P-Noy was also criticized by Anakbayan national chairman Vencer Crisostomo and Kabataan Partylist national president Terry Ridon for his statements, which they claimed was tantamount to a “whitewash” on the incident. 

But what is interesting to note is that these leftist groups are quick to attack the U.S. for any “infraction” but are quiet about China’s aggression against the Philippines.  What would they do if one day they wake up to see an armada of Chinese warships in the Sulu Sea on their way to Puerto Princesa?    

(PerryDiaz@gmail.com)

“JAZZMOPOLITAN®” ALL STARS SPARKLE AT THE FORD AUGUST 25

An Evening of Jazz Collaboration with Filipino American Performers

(Los Angeles, CA. July, 2012) Planned spontaneity, the essence of jazz performance, takes centerstage at the Ford Amphitheatre as PAE Live! spotlights performers from the “Jazzmopolitan®” series on Saturday, August 25 in a spectacular concert under the stars. The show will bring young, up-and-coming jazz artists from the Filipino community together with performers who have made their mark in the Filipino jazz world in the final Jazzmopolitan® concert ending the series which began in 2010.

On this year’s Jazzmopolitan® bill, PAE Live! is excited to introduce a couple of hot, new vocalists who are making waves in the music industry, particularly on the Internet. One such talent is Krystle Tugadi whose music is a tasty blend of r&b, folk, pop and jazz mixed with a soulful voice. Her ability to reach people with her honest performances and music has always been her niche but it’s her quirky disposition that has gained her a strong following of listeners from all walks of life.

Alma Silos, a veteran singer who is celebrating a return to live performance, grew up listening to jazz singers like Ella Fitzgerald and Nat King Cole. Since coming to the U.S. in 1986, Alma became a member of groups Ssshe, Altered Rhythm and even started a record label with her husband. She has recently finished her album entitled “Alma Silos: After Ten”.

Mitch Franco was born and raised in Northern California. His mother, Gemma Franco, was once a professional recording artist in the Philippines. Mitch became fond of a Michael Buble album when he was 10 years old and began researching jazz music immediately. He then tried singing the classic Sinatra tune “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”. The song was perfect for him and Mitch has been singing jazz ever since.

VJ Rosales is a singer/songwriter with a fresh sound bringing versatility to pop and r&b by fusing his knowledge and style of jazz with them. An alumni from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music (at Cal State Long Beach) with a B.M. in Jazz Studies, he is an upcoming artist who is easily adaptable to the changing pop genre. He currently sings with his band, "Chasing Vertigo", a three-piece band that melds pop and r&b with jazz and funk.

Also making her Ford debut is the Philippines’ very own Queen of Jazz, Louie Reyes. She began her professional career with an all female singing trio called Babsie, Chit and Louie, established herself as an accomplished performer with the popular New Minstrels, recorded and released several albums, and received standing ovations for her stage and theatre performances in the Philippines and abroad. She has performed with several mainstream jazz artists such as Joe Sample, Bob James, David Benoit, Noel Pointer and Dianne Reeves.

Abe Lagrimas, Jr., who played drums during the “Jazzmopolitan: Gentlemen of Jazz” concert, is a versatile multi-instrumentalist – equally proficient on the drums, vibraphone and ukulele. Abe began his musical journey when he first sat behind a drum set at the age of four. After high school, Abe continued his studies and attended Berklee College of Music as a North American World Tour Scholarship recipient. He has performed with artists such as Eric Marienthal, Eric Reed, Bill Mays, Jon Irabagon, Lalo Schifrin, Gabe Baltazar, James Morrison, Jake Shimabukuro, James Ingram and in Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Mexico, Canada and Germany.

Jaclyn Rose, a graduate from California State University, Long Beach with a degree in Vocal Performance and a concentration in Jazz Studies, returns from last year’s “Jazzmopolitan: Ladies of Jazz” concert. Trained in a wide variety of musical styles, jazz/neo-soul/r&b is where her heart lies, a la Erykah Badu and India Arie to name a couple. “Jazz offers infinite possibilities…” explains Jaclyn, “there are no limitations…you gain such a deep musical understanding with jazz. The complex harmonies are beautiful and colorful, and really that’s what I love most about jazz. It’s colorful.”

A highlight of the concert will be special performances from Eduardo “Tateng” Katindig, Jr. Born in the Philippines and schooled at the University of the Philippines majoring in composition and keyboard concentration, Tateng is the son of Philippine legendary jazz musician Eddie Katindig. Jazz brought Tateng to the U.S. in 2000 and since then he has played with many great artists such as the legendary drummer Earl Palmer, Lou Rawls, Ritchie Cole, Alphonse Mouzon, Bill Henderson, the late Teddy Edward, Sam Most, Eloise Laws and Carl Saunders to name a few. Earlier this month, he made his Hollywood Bowl debut as musical director for an all-Filipino concert curated by Black Eyed Peas’ member Apl.de.ap.

Saxophonist Ner de Leon, who stunned the audience at the “Jazzmopolitan: Gentlemen of Jazz” concert, will be back in another spectacular performance. The Berklee College of Music educated musician hails from a long bloodline of musicians and has been playing music since he was eight years old. Over the years, Ner has developed a timber that distinguishes his unique and superb style and sound that truly sets him apart from the rest.

PAE Live! has invited two very special artists who originated the “Jazzmopolitan” series to perform at this final concert. With a career that spans all of the entertainment genres (television, film, theater, music and performance), singer/songwriter Becca Godinez – who made her debut at the Hollywood Bowl earlier this month - has a special place in her heart for jazz music, the second vocal specialty she studied in college (after classical music). Expect Becca’s command of bossa nova and Brazilian jazz to shine during the concert. Mon David, the 2006 winner of the London International Jazz Competition, is also coming to close out the series. The major jazz singer from the Philippines who can sing any type of music with credibility, creativity, heartfelt emotion and wit has been creating waves in the U.S. since he moved here. He cites influences from Frank Sinatra, Kurt Elling, Eddie Jefferson and Mark Murphy on his music.

The featured artist for the show is smooth jazz saxman Michael Paulo, who has been part of all the “Jazzmopolitan” concerts since the series originated. One of the most versatile saxophonists in pop, soul and contemporary jazz for over twenty years, the Hawaiian born Paulo has added his distinct “saxpertise” to a virtual Who's Who of artists including Al Jarreau, James Ingram, trumpeter Rick Braun and guitarist Peter White, Oleta Adams, Patti Austin, Jeff Lorber, David Benoit and Johnny Mathis to name a few. Paulo grew up in a musical family (his father a pianist, his mother a singer, his siblings all playing instruments) but chose a more adventurous road by joining Hawaiian pop/rock band Kalapana, which had some success on the mainland but was most popular in Japan. He continues to produce the annual Temecula Wine & Music Festival and continues to play his own brand of music around the world.

“This will be an unforgettable evening of jazz music,” promises director/producer Rex Sampaga. “The caliber of artists, both young and seasoned, is extraordinary and they bring a level of musicianship and performance that showcase not only their talent but also the music. Even though it will be our last Jazzmopolitan concert in this form, I am eagerly awaiting this show!”

A portion of the show’s proceeds will be donated to the ABS-CBN Foundation International, Inc. a registered non-profit organization under the multi-media global ABS-CBN network, and in particular, to their flagship program “Bantay Bata” (or “Child Watch”). Bantay Bata is a child welfare program in the Philippines that not only rescues and rehabilitates sick and abused children, but also provides shelter, therapy and quality home care for rescued children until they can be reunited with their families or referred to proper child-caring agencies. The program gives emphasis on the family through the following services: training and advocacy on child abuse prevention, rehabilitation of families in crisis, educational scholarships, livelihood, community outreach and medical and dental missions. For more information on the Foundation and it’s work, visit www.abscbnfoundation.org.

Tickets for “Jazzmopolitan® All Stars” start at $25 and are $12 for full-time students with ID and children 12 and under. Tickets are available at www.FordTheatres.org or 323-461-3673 (for non-visual media 323-GO 1-FORD). For groups of 8 or more, please call 323-769-2147. For more information, visit http://fordtheatres.org/en/events/details/id/373. The concert is sponsored by the Asian Journal, BakitWhy.com, Gano Excel, FilamNation.com, Goldilocks, Island Pacific, Jeepney Asian Grill, the PinoyInsider.com and Seafood City in conjunction with Ford season sponsors KPFK 90.7 FM and LA18.

The Ford Amphitheatre is located at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood, CA 90068, just off the 101 Hollywood Freeway across from the Hollywood Bowl and south of Universal Studios. The grounds open two hours before show time for picnicking. The Ford offers a number of dining options: a variety of food and beverages are available on site and box dinners for evening events may be ordered in advance. Patrons are welcome to bring their own food and drink.

The Ford is disabled accessible. Portable wireless listening devices are available upon request. On-site stacked parking costs $5 per vehicle for evening shows. For evening shows only,FREE non-stacked parking serviced by a FREE shuttle to the Ford is available at the Universal City Metro Station lot at Lankershim Blvd. and Campo de Cahuenga. The shuttle cycles every 15 – 20 minutes and stops in the “kiss and ride” area.

“Jazzmopolitan®” produced by PAE Live!, is part of the Ford Amphitheatre 2012 Season, a multi-disciplinary arts series produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission in cooperation with Los Angeles County-based arts organizations. For a complete season schedule, directions to the theater and parking information, log on to www.FordTheatres.org.

"Wil Time Bigtime" on May 26 at Shrine Auditorium (Los Angeles )

NORA AUNOR, RUFFA GUTIERREZ, AGA MUHLACH and DEREK RAMSAY join the North America launch of KapatidTV5 and AksyonTV International featuring Willie Revillame's "Wil Time Bigtime" on May 26 at Shrine Auditorium (Los Angeles ) and June 2 at Bill Graham Civic Auditorium (San Francisco). For tickets call 1-855-KAPATID (855-527-2843), log on to Ticketmaster.com, or charge by phone at 1-800-745-3000. San Francisco show tickets with "no service charges" available Fridays only at the Fox Theater Oakland (12nn-7pm) at 1807 Telegraph Avenue, Oakland. 510-302-2277.

Stars of the film ‘The Road’ lead them to Belo Clinic in Glendale

By Jay Fermin (FMG)

After a very successful red carpet premiere at Arclight theater in Hollywood, the stars of Director Yan Laranas film ‘ The Road ‘ dropped by recently at Belo Clinic in Glendale, California.

Alden Richards, who is on his first U.S. visit, came by to see Dr. Vicky Belo the day after the movie premiere. He is being watched as the next big star of GMA Network.

A true La Sallian, Alden dreams of finishing up his Business Administration degree even with the pressures of show business. He has worked with veteran stars Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes.

He revealed that before his career took off, he played the main part in the high school play ‘Joseph and The Multi Coloured Dreamcoat.’

Today, he spent time with Dr. Belo before heading for a fun day at Disneyland. ‘The Road’ is his breakthrough movie which received great reviews at the April Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival.

Following his visit, the very down-to-earth, fun, and very gorgeous Rhian Ramos also came by at Belo Clinic in Glendale before doing some ‘Mall Shopping.’

Rhian is considered one of the most Beautiful stars in the Philippines with more than a dozen magazine covers to her credit. The conversation started with her role in the film, and went on to her being a ‘techie’ and not a big fan of name brand fashion, and confesses that she loves collecting toy cars !

However, what she really revealed is that the film ‘The Road’, is a great collaboration of talent to show that the Philippines can make an inroad into Hollywood and the world , breaking away from the stereotype Filipino films that we are all familiar with. 'The Road' is definitely world class movie, almost shot like a British film with a fast paced script and breathtaking cinematography.

Asked what she wants in life, her response is that she can continue projects that will appeal not only to the Philippine viewers, but to the world. And in so doing, her heart’s desire from her bucket list is to start and leave behind a Foundation to help single small entrepreneurs in the Philippines break out of the ‘gaya-gaya ‘ attitude, and be trained in tackling unique products that will appeal to the wider and bigger world market!

Dr.Vicky Belo was very happy that Alden and Rhian dropped by for a quick chat and promised to see them in Belo Clinics when they return to the Philippines so she can do treatment to ward off the jetlag.

‘The Road ‘ also stars Carmina Villaroel, Marvin Agustin, TJ Trinidad, Barbie Forteza, Lexi Fernandez, Derrick Monasterio, Louis delos Reyes, and Ynna Assistio. Watch it starting May 11, 2012 in a theater near you..

Kapatid TV5 and AksyonTV International Set to Expand its Reach in North America

WILLIE TO GIVE AWAY HOUSE AND LOT AT

TV5’s LAUNCH EVENTS IN LA AND SAN FRANCISCO

California, April 5, 2012 - TV5 International kicks off its North American launch by bringing TV5’s popular television program “Wil Time Bigtime” to Filipinos living in the United States. Host Willie Revillame will visit Los Angeles on May 26 at the Shrine Auditorium and San Francisco on June 2 at the Bill Graham Civic Auditorium for a limited series of live concerts.

Fans and attendees can expect the heartwarming fun and entertainment that Willie has been known for. They can sing along to his hits such as “Ikaw Na Nga” or dance to “Boom Tarat Tarat” and “Sayaw Darling.” Willie’s shows bring total entertainment and are expected to deliver fun musical numbers and exciting games for the whole family, with big time prizes at stake including a chance for one lucky winner to win a house and lot for loved ones back in the Philippines.

This event is only the first of many to come as TV5 International’s two channels, Kapatid TV5 and AksyonTV International, expand its reach in North America.

Don’t miss this chance to catch Willie Revillame and other TV5 stars, live! Tickets will be available at Ticketmaster and select ticket outlets. For ticket inquiries and reservations, call 1-855-KAPATID (1-855-527-2843) or email KapatidTV5@gmail.com. For sponsorship opportunities, contact Creative Concepts at 1-888-886-7889, or email CreativeConceptsIntl@gmail.com.

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Induction Ceremony of 2012 FACC-LA Officer’s Installation & New Members Recognition.

Sherman Oaks, CA --- March 15, 2012 The Filipino-American Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles announced the official results of the FACC-LA election for 2012‏. The executive officers are: Vic Mercado (President), Lydia Soriano (President Elect/ 1st Vice), Mary Ann Omega (2nd Vice President), Shirley Lumanog (Corresponding Secretary), Vangie Tabberrah (Recording Secretary) and Roy Tabberrah (Treasurer). The Chamber 2012 Board of Directors are: Bob Crowther, Paul Kao, Susan Maranan, Lulu Mercado, Gladys Balallo, Gemma Bergstrom, Nick Delicana, and Mary Trinidad.

To celebrate the 2012 FACC-LA new officers and board of directors installation the organization will host their Induction Ceremony on Friday, March 30, 2012 at MayFlower Seafood Restaurant (in the Function Room) located at 679 N. Spring St., Los Angeles, CA 90012 from 7:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The event will feature live entertainment and is open to everyone. Deputy Consul General at Philippine Consulate General Daniel Espiritu have confirmed his attendance to grace on this upcoming event.

GENERAL TICKETS: $25.00 (includes 8 courses of dinner, dance and entertainment) at http://faccla2012inductionceremony.eventbrite.com/ For more details and to reserve your seats please contact: Lulu Mercado (818) 470-5556, Shirley Lumanog (818) 802-6888, and Lydia Soriano (562) 310-8144.

PRESS/MEDIA R.S.V.P. MANDATORY: Lydia Soriano at Lfsoriano8@msmservicesinc.com or Steven Escobar at diversitynews@hotmail.com

Event sponsors include Mayflower Restaurant (Host), World Wide Vital Marketing & Public Relations (Marketing and Public Relations), Diversity News Printing Services (Graphic Design), Diversity News Magazine (Media).

About The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce LA: The Filipino American Chamber of Commerce of Los Angeles (FACC -LA), est. 2001 is a 501c(6) nonprofit organization (Tax I.D.#54-2171511).

The FACC-LA was founded in 2001 and continues to promote and further the interests of the Los Angeles business community. As part of the ongoing effort to grow the business community, FACC-LA thrives and ensures maximum return of business owner’s investment of time, energy and dollars. We further develop ways and means to advance the interests of businesses. We provide resources in the growth of existing local businesses and industries as well as providing assistance to new business owners and individuals offering services that will benefit and enhance the quality of life in our society. The chamber also supports and encourages local cultural and civic activities to improve and/ or expand the quality of life in the community. For more information visit www.FACC-SFV.org


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MEDIA CONTACTS:

Lydia Soriano, FACC-LA President Elect

Tel. (562) 310-8144 Email: Lfsoriano8@msmservicesinc.com



Alex Leon, Director of Marketing & PR

Steven Escobar, Media Liaison

World Wide Vital Marketing & Public Relations Inc.

http://worldwidevitalpr.wordpress.com/

TEL: (213) 321-9408

worldwidevitalpr@gmail.com

Pinatubo Eruption Images to be unveiled by Philippine Photojournalists arriving in the U.S.

(Photo by Nicholas Vargas)

Press Release:

A group of Filipino photojournalists who were there to capture the eruption of the century—that of Mt. Pinatubo—is flying to the United States for a coast-to-coast tour of a photo exhibit dubbed “20 Years After the Eruption.”

Arriving from the Philippines are the following veteran photojournalists:Meet veteran photojournalists arriving from the Philippines who covered the Pinatubo eruption in 1991:

1. Alberto Garcia, Manila Bulletin Photo Editor

2. Jose Ventoza Galvez, Jr., PPP current President, GMA-7 Online Photo Editor

3. Heraldo Garcia Cabrido, Photography Consultant, Philippine Daily Inquirer

4. Jose Enrique Santos Soriano, Freelance Photojournalist

5. Valeriano Handumon, Photojournalist, European Photo Agency Manila

6. Teodoro C, Aljibe, Chief Photographer, Agence France Presse MANILA (AFP)

7. Angelo Andres Martin De Silva, Freelance Photojournalist

8. Rosario Sofia Santos Villa, ABS-CBN

9. Arlyn dela Cruz Collantes, NET 25

10.Leopoldo Flores Pusing, Journalist, Coordinator Mt. Pinatubo Media Survivor

11. Ernie Sarmiento, chief photographer, Phil. Daily Inquirer.

Organized by Sining Kambayoka, the Filipino American Press Club and the city of Carson, the exhibit will be staged during Filipino Heritage Month at Southbay Pavilion Shopping Center in Carson City, California on Oct. 1-31.

The exhibit features more than 50 photographs shot during and after the eruption, including Albert Garcia’s iconic photo that won first prize in the Nature Category in the World Press Photographers contest.

Photo of a massive dark cloud about to engulf a fleeing vehicle is also one of the “Great Images of the 20th Century” as chosen by Time and one of the “100 Best Pictures of the 20th Century” of National Geographic.

To get a better idea of how spectacular Alberto Garcia’s photo is, the 20th century encompasses two World Wars, the rise and fall of several great nations, new discoveries, inventions and scientific explorations.

Aside from Garcia, now photo editor at Manila Bulletin, coming to the US are former Inquirer photography consultant Heraldo “Boy” Cabrido, the man behind the exhibit; Charie Villa of ABS-CBN, GMA-7’s online photo editor Joe Galvez, Arlyn dela Cruz of Net25 and chief photographers of other newspapers and news bureaus based in the Philippines, 11 in all.

Currently, the exhibit is on a nationwide tour of the Philippines. In the US, the exhibit will also go to San Francisco, Las Vegas, Chicago and New York.

Sponsors are the Department of Tourism, Philippine Airlines, Pagcor, TIEZA, Smart Communications, YKL and SM Malls with media partners ABS-CBN, GMA-7, The Filipino Channel, Net25, Philippine Daily Inquirer and Business Mirror.

( Above is a photo of the media planning meeting held at Carson Ca. on Sept 24, 2011 in preparation for the Oct 1 Exhibit. US-based journalists (from left, standing) are Jay Fermin, Nick Sagmit, Jun (Dong) Camacho, Albert Vargas, Rhony Laigo, Nimfa Rueda, Joe Cobilla, Ed Galvez, Nick Arriola, Jess Fonseca, Romeo Balboa. Seated are Vics Magsaysay, Robert Gamo and Art dela Rosa. Not in photo is Benny Uy, who had to leave early for an assignment and Ver Penaranda. The Tambayayong (Bayanihan) Festival will be held at the Southbay Pavilion (Carson Mall) Oct. 1-31. )

Pinatubo Eruption photo by Alberto Garcia / Corbis

LEA SALONGA, JOE BATAAN AND REX NAVARRETE HIGHLIGHT POPULAR WEEKEND FEST, SEPT. 10-11

FPAC - SOCAL’S LARGEST FILIPINO EVENT RETURNS FOR ITS 20TH YEAR: LEA SALONGA, JOE BATAAN AND REX NAVARRETE HIGHLIGHT POPULAR WEEKEND FEST, SEPT. 10-11 AT PT. FERMIN PARK, SAN PEDRO.

(LOS ANGELES) – The region’s biggest Filipino party and most fun-filled, annual tradition, the Festival of Philippine Arts and Culture (FPAC), celebrates its 20th Anniversary with its grandest event yet, September 10-11, 2011 at beautiful seaside Point Fermin Park in San Pedro.

Iconic singer and stage actress Lea Salonga, who first gained artistic and international acclaim for her historic Tony Award-winning role in Miss Saigon and first-ever Filipino winner of a Tony Award, will be awarded one of two special FPAC20 Awards for Artistic Excellence during the weekend.

Also to be honored with the special FPAC20 Award of Artistic Excellence, The multi-faceted Faustino Caigoy, a painter, noted illustrator of children’s books, author of his own collection of poetry, and teacher in traditional Filipino arts of baybayin and martial arts Kali, Eskrima and Arnis. Additionally, DJ E-Man, of top rated Los Angeles radio station Power 106 will receive the 2011 FPAC Media Artist Award.

FPAC20 will also see encore performances by two of its most-requested artists to ever grace FPAC stages in Latin Soul Legend, Joe Bataan, direct from Harlem, New York and premiere Filipino American Comedian, Rex Navarrete who returns stateside after a successful mini tour of Singapore and The Philippines.

The Filipino American Symphony Orchestra (FASO), a successful venture into staging world class Pinoy classical musicianship, will make its festival debut.

“I feel like it’s a part of my home,” said Joe Bataan about the Festival where he last performed in 2008. “It’s always gratifying to go back there because it’s an opportunity for an artist like myself to meet my own people.”

The festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 and Sunday, Sept. 11. Admission is $7 pre-sale or $9 at the door. Children 5 and under are free.

Now celebrating two decades of tradition, FPAC annually features a variety of pavilions and stages for Filipino artists to showcase their work. Two stages present traditional to contemporary artistry in music, dance, spoken word, and comedy. The Pilipino Artists Network (PAN) Pavilion highlights visual artistry and craftsmanship in live painting, book readings, Baybayin (Filipino script) workshops, and artwork for sale. At the Seniors’ Village, one enjoys Harana (serenading) and story-telling. The Youth Pavilion engages youth in kite-making, dance workshops, and Pustura (Dress-up in traditional Filipino costumes), and arts and crafts. FPAC is truly a family event with something for every age to enjoy.

In a nod toward Southern California foodie culture, FPAC will again feature the highly popular Filipino food trucks as part of its culinary stage/food booth area where delicious and authentic Filipino cuisine can be sampled.

New to the festival, and testament to the rise of Filipino Americans on the culinary landscape, a stage within a stage called “Sweet Naman” will feature popular, high-end artisanal desserts from Delicieuse (gourmet ice cream), Tasty Clouds (gourmet cotton candy) and CrèmeCaramel (leche flan and bread pudding).

All three are Filipino-owned businesses and all will be making their respective Filipino community debuts – another FPAC hallmark through the years.

The festival continues to celebrate with festival-goers’ favorites such as the youth Ati-Atihan parade, the Annual Vegetable Growing Competition, the Balut-Eating Contest, the Hip Hop Dance Showcase, and the Annual Tinikling Battle.

The City of Los Angeles first initiated FPAC in 1992. After seven years, its stewardship
transferred to a non-profit organization now known as FilAm ARTS – the Association for the Advancement of Filipino American Arts & Culture.

"(The festival) still remains true to its original intent since its inception: It was designed to be a common
ground.The aim of FPAC is to be as inclusive in every which way possible," explains Executive Director Jilly Canizares. "This is seen in the conscious programming to include the rich diversity of Philippine artistic expressions – from old to new, traditional to contemporary, visual arts to performing. Coming to the Festival gives a true slice of the Filipino American community."

FPAC receives government support through the National Endowment for the Arts, the California Arts Council, the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, the City of LA Department of Cultural Affairs, the LA Department of Recreation and Parks. It is also funded in part by the California Community Foundation, the James Irvine Foundation, the Alliance for California Traditional Arts, the Getty Foundation, and individual donors. This year’s media sponsors include LA 18 KSCI-TV, Asian Journal Publications, Bakitwhy.com, Oishi Media, as well community sponsor the Southern California Pilipino American Student Alliance.

Free parking with complimentary shuttle service to Pt. Fermin Park is available at the spacious parking lot on 22nd street and Sampson Way.

For more information on ticket sales, parking information, sponsorship opportunities, exhibitor booth and table, and volunteer opportunities, log onto www.filamarts.org, or call (213) 380- FPAC.

Artist Lynda A. N. Reyes at the Brand 40 Exhibit

A most recent watercolor painting by Lynda A. N. Reyes titled “Exit Way” will be featured in the Brand 40 Annual National Juried Exhibition of Works on Paper from September 17 – October 28, 2011 at the Brand Library Art Galleries in Glendale, California. The artists' reception and awards ceremony will take place on September 17, 2011 from 6-9 pm.

Reyes' watercolor entry was selected from over 600 entries submitted by 253 artists from all over the United States. Themed “Entrances and Exits”, the exhibition features 93 works on paper in a variety of media, including photography, drawings, watercolors, mixed media works, etchings, linocuts, lithographs and monotypes, etc. Peter Frank, art critic for the Huffington Post and Adjunct Senior Curator at the Riverside Art Museum is the juror for the Brand 40. He was art critic for Angeleno magazine and the L. A. Weekly and was Editor for THEmagazine Los Angeles and Visions Art Quarterly. While in New York, Frank served as art critic for The Village Voice and The SoHo Weekly News. He has organized numerous themed and survey shows, most notably the1981 Exxon National Exhibition titled "19 Artists – Emergent Americans" at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum in New York. He has written and published books such as New, Used & Improved, an overview of the New York art scene with co-author Michael McKenzie.

This is Lynda's second participation in the “Works on Paper” national exhibit. In 2009, her watercolor painting titled “Structure Rising” was featured in the Brand 38. She has also participated in other juried exhibits such as the 2010 Annual National Watercolor Society All Member Show, the Pasadena Society of Artists shows at the VIVA Gallery, ASC in Pasadena and in several other group exhibits at the Eagle Rock Center for the Arts, the Arts and Books Gallery in LA, the Glendale College Art Gallery, the Brand Gallery and the Pete and Susan Barrett Gallery in Santa Monica. In 2010, her landscape in oil titled “Dusk at Port Hueneme” was chosen as finalist in the 27th Annual Art Competition of the Artist's Magazine.


The public will again witness Lynda's mastery of watercolor when she joins women artists in a juried exhibit at the SOMArts Gallery in San Francisco under the auspices of the Women's Caucus for Art titled “Reversing the Gaze”. Two of her watercolor paintings will be part of the show that runs from November 4th to the 30th, 2011. Lynda is a full-time professional artist and accepts portrait commissions in oil and watercolor. She is a member of the National Watercolor Society www.nationalwatercolorsociety.org.

Lynda is also an art historian and an author. She is best known in the international academia for her pioneering book entitled "The Textiles of Southern Philippines” and her published studies in Philippine ethnic art. Her book is currently in the collection of 141 libraries of major universities and museums all over the world. She was one of 48 recipients worldwide of an International Fellowship Award from the American Association of University Women. She completed her Masters in Art history with a graduate fellowship grant at Northern Illinois University. Lynda has taught at the University of the Philippines Manila, Glendale College and at several community colleges in LA area, including Santa Monica College and Pasadena City College.

The Brand Library Art Galleries, the art and music division of the Glendale Public Library, showcase works by established and emerging artists from all over the US. The Art Galleries and Art Center have huge and stunning exhibition spaces set in a magnificent park-like environment. “Works on Paper” exhibits started over ten years ago and the presence of jurors became a key component of each show. Most jurors are well-known artists, such as Gerald Brommer, Martin Mondrus, Jim Morphesis, Lita Albuquerque, Kim Abeles and Ruth Weisberg. Curator Gloria Williams Sander of the Norton Simon Museum of Art was juror for Brand 39 and for the current Brand 40, the juror is a noted art critic, writer and editor Peter Frank.

Admission to the galleries is free and open to the public. The gallery is located at 1601 West Mountain Street in Glendale, California 91201-1200. The hours of operation are Tuesday and Thursday from 12 to 8 pm, Wednesday from 12 to 6 pm and Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm. For more information, please call 818-548-2051 or visit http://www.brandlibrary.org/brand_galleries.asp. Visit www.lyndaanreyes.com for more information about Lynda A. N. Reyes.

Media Contact:

Albert Natian
Albert.Natian@gmail.com
(818) 548-2687

Free Bread to Help in these Economic Times

On any given Saturday, the 46-year-old Joseph ‘Jimmy’ Lewis picks up bread and other donated items from a local Vons early in the morning and fills the cabin of his white Denali and takes it to the streets. He starts his ‘bread run’ throughout Altadena, Pasadena, and Los Angeles.

When his grandfather Isaac Walker took it upon himself to feed the local homeless 13 years ago he didn’t anticipate that his grandson, a known gangbanger, would one day succeed him.

But in 2008, that once-troubled grandson, Joseph ‘Jimmy’ Lewis, discovered that taking the baton from his aging grandfather and helping the needy has become not just a passion but a way to help out in this hard economic times.

From the local Vons, he drives to local churches, community centers, gas stations, and to the McDonald’s parking lot at Historic Filipino Town, where he distributes the items to anyone who asks.

On this particular Saturday, a group of Filipino-American World War II veterans and their family members converge at the back cabin of his white Denali to get free bread, cookies, and a cake.

Lewis says it is his way of being part of the solution to the pressing economy. Jimmy has now stepped up and relieve his grandfather in distributing the food, the latter who is now in his 90’s.

Jimmy has a special feeling for the Filipino-American World War II veterans. His grandfather Isaac, served with the Tuskegee Airmen 332nd Air Wing, and was stationed in the Philippine Islands during the war. He met his wife Pilar, Jimmy’s grandmother, in the Philippines. Grandma Pilar comes from the big city of Iloilo in Western Visayas.

On this particular Saturday, he urges the gathering crowd at the parking lot of the McDonald’s on the corner of Temple and Alvarado Streets to ‘take as much as you need’.

A lady joins the crowd as Jimmy hands her a full loaf of bread. She asks if the bread is really free. As it turned out, the lady is new to Los Angeles, moving in from Florida. She cannot believe it at first. It was a good welcome for her to ‘the city of Angels.’

PAE Live! Presents “generatioNext!”

THE FORD STAGE LIGHTS UP WITH HOT, YOUNG TALENT

AS “GENERATIONEXT!” SPOTLIGHTS MUSIC & DANCE FROM

TODAY’S RISING STARS

(Los Angeles, CA.) The dynamic worlds of hip hop dance and contemporary urban music come together at the historic Ford Amphitheatre on Sunday, August 7 as PAE Live! presents “generatioNext!”, a concert featuring the next wave of sensational YouTube musicians, singers, comedians and dancers together for the first time. A portion of the net proceeds will benefit ongoing Japan rebuilding efforts. “generatioNext!” will be hosted by America’s Best Dance Crew Season 3 champions “Quest Crew”. Accomplished dancers, each with their own specialty and style, Quest Crew brings to the stage a great mix of humor, musicality, eye-popping tricks and innovative choreography.

Leading the music charge are two very distinct performers, although the roots of their influences lie in soul and R&B. Dawen, a sing-songwriter based in Los Angeles with a lyrical style, a smooth baritone voice and a sensual falsetto (a la Maxwell), has what MTV Iggy called “an eclectically soulful style reminiscent of artists as quirky as Nellie McKay and as sensual as Seal”. His exploration of the American life through song fuses soul and R&B with funk and jazz.



San Diego based singer/songwriter/performer J-Ricz brings a new wave of vision and creativity to the R&B/Pop genre. The ex-Next Phaze member who is making a name for himself not only in the U.S. but in Japan as well says, “It’s the passion for music and the drive to inspire others that really matters in the end.” J-Ricz’s performance will be a tribute to “old school” R&B including a song influenced by the King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

American Idol Finalist Andrew Garcia will make a special appearance. The singer from Moreno Valley placed ninth in the Fox reality competition series on Season 9 but is noted for his unique take on Paula Abdul’s number 1 smash, “Straight Up. Official sponsor Akufuncture brings its family of artists to “generatioNext!”. Established in 2009, Akufuncture continues to pioneer Chinese inspired fashion, riding the fine dichotomy of high fashion and street-wear and fueling the inspiration in global fashion for generations. In addition to Dawen, Akufuncture is sponsoring several up-and-coming talents, including afterschoolspecial, the San Diego-based band who describe themselves as “a musical hurricane on a collision course with awesome”. Since their conception in 2007, what started out as performances in local bars has grown to playing alongside national acts and touring nationwide. Influenced by artists like Linkin Park, Atmosphere and the Beastie Boys, afterschoolspecial has created a unique blend of rock, rap, folk and soul that continues to break down musical barriers. Akufuncture will also present The Fung Brothers, David and Andrew, who infuse hip hop music with their unique brand of comedy and singer/songwriter and YouTube hit Kevin Lien.

Two other performing artists round out the evening’s lineup. San Francisco bay native trio Innerlude – James, Eric and Cyrus – will serve up a toxic blend of R&B/Pop tunes that showcase remarkable vocal prowess and Mahi Crabbe, a Polynesian singer/songwriter based in Las Vegas, will take the stage with his brand of acoustic guitar pop music. Mahi is a finalist is the first ever Pacific Island Talent Contest. His music is a fusion of island rhythms, reggae and Polynesian pop. Additional artists will be confirmed in the coming weeks. Artist lineup is subject to change.

With “generatioNext!”, PAE Live! will be donating a portion of the net proceeds directly to the Japan Red Cross in support of the continuing rebuilding efforts the country has been doing since the devastating earthquake and tsunami in March. “generatioNext!” is sponsored by Akufuncture, BakitWhy.com, KPFK 90.7 and KSCI Channel 18.

“generatioNext!” takes place at the Ford Amphitheatre, located at 2580 Cahuenga Boulevard East, Hollywood, CA. 90068, just off the 101 Hollywood Freeway across from the Hollywood Bowl and south of Universal Studios. The grounds open two hours before show time for picnicking. The Ford offers a number of dining options: a variety of food and beverages is available on site and box dinners for evening events may be ordered in advance. Patrons are welcome to bring their own food and drink.

The Ford is disabled accessible. Portable wireless listening devices are available upon request. On-site, stacked parking costs $5 per vehicle for evening shows and $1 per vehicle for morning family shows. For evening shows only, FREE non-stacked parking serviced by a FREE shuttle to the Ford, for evening amphitheatre performances only, is available at the Universal City Metro Station lot at Lankershim Blvd. and Campo de Cahuenga. The shuttle, which cycles every 15 – 20 minutes, stops in the “kiss and ride” area.

Tickets, priced at $45 and $30 and are available at www.FordTheatres.org or at 323-461-3673 (for non-visual media 323 GO 1-FORD). Through the Ford’s early buyer incentive, patrons who buy tickets on or before July 31 pay only $40 and $25. Special $75 VIP tickets allow for premium seating, a souvenir, specially designed T-shirt and a private meet and greet with the artists prior to showtime. This event is part of the Ford Amphitheatre 2011 Season, a multi-disciplinary arts series produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission in cooperation with Los Angeles County-based arts organizations. For a complete season schedule, directions to the theater and parking information, please visit www.FordTheatres.org.

Bantay Bata 163 meets with Fil-Ams at PhilConGen L.A.

Photo shows Tina Monzon-Palma explain the mission of Bantay Bata 163 (photo by PCGLA)

Los Angeles, 3 May 2011 – Ms. Tina Monzon-Palma of Bantay Bata 163 (BB163) explains the mission of BB163 to members of the Filipino-American community who attended the presentation on BB163 which was held on 2 May 2011 at the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles.

BB163 is a child welfare program of ABS-CBN Foundation that not only rescues and rehabilitates sick and abused children, but also provides shelter, therapy and quality home care for rescued children until they can be reunited with their families or referred to proper child-caring agencies.

I LOVE YOU To Premiere At Newport Beach Film Festival

I LOVE YOU To Premiere At Newport Beach Film Festival April 30
All Star Cast Includes Briana Evigan And Jericho Rosales In First Mainstream Role


(Newport Beach, CA) SUBJECT: I LOVE YOU, the much anticipated romantic thriller feature set at the turn of the millennium, will make its World Premiere at the Newport Beach Film Festival, 5:30 p.m., Saturday, April 30 at the historic Lido Theatre in Newport Beach.

Filmed entirely in The Philippines, the film features a stellar, multinational cast directed by Manila-born director, Francis dela Torre.

A joint venture between upstart Manila-based production company Tectonic Films and Radiant Studios, the ambitious independent project features a stellar, multinational cast and stars Briana Evigan (STEP UP 2 THE STREETS, SORORITY SISTERS), Dante Basco (TAKE THE LEAD, HOOK), Kristin Bauer (TRUE BLOOD), Dean Cain (LOIS AND CLARK) Apl de Ap (Black Eye Peas) and Filipino Superstars, Gary Valenciano and Jericho Rosales.

Based on events which lead to the creation and global spread of the infamous "I love you" computer virus which infected millions of computers including the systems of The Pentagon, Parliament and the CIA, the film centers on Victor (Jericho Rosales), a working class student in Manila who meets and falls instantly for a popular touring DJ named Butterfly (Briana Evigan). He is the stable, localized yin to her unfixed, cosmopolitan yang and in classic love story fashion, the opposites attract.

Utilizing exotic and picturesque locales, the film follows the two on their developing romance. But that is just the preamble to a thriller involving international intrigue on which Victor and Butterfly find themselves caught up and eventually, separated and desperately struggling to reconnect.

"I'm a believer -- (the production) are believers -- in The Philippines and we specifically sought to make the film back home," said writer/director dela Torre. "The setting may be localized but, there is no mistaking that the story and the film is universal in scope. We are excited at the results and very much anticipate screening it before a public audience for the first time at the Premiere."

Fans of Jericho Rosales will undoubtedly be anticipating the film as well as it represents the Filipino star's mainstream motion picture debut.

"It was a great experience to work with 'Echo (Rosales), he's a great actor'" added dela Torre, an alumnus of the USC School of Cinematic Arts. "I was humbled with having to work with such an amazingly talented cast. I think audiences will be very pleased with what they see. They are in for a ride."

The cast are expected to attend the premiere with festivities beginning at 4:30 with red carpet arrivals.

The World Premiere of SUBJECT: I LOVE YOU is open to the public. Tickets are just $12 and are now on sale through the film festival website box office at Newport Film Festival or at the Lido Theatre
box office located at 3459 Via Lido (@ Newport Blvd.) in Newport Beach, 92663.

For the film's official trailer, http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3IP9mT6xxU.

Quo Vadis, P-Noy?

PerryScope: by Perry Diaz

Ten months into his presidency, President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III seems like he’s lost in the jungle of Pinoy politics where the dynamics are constantly changing. As an avid shooting enthusiast, he knows that it’s difficult to lock the crosshairs on a distant and moving target. So, he’s left with one option: take the offensive and attack in close combat. And attack he did.

Word war

First, he declared war against Ombudsman Merceditas “Merci” Gutierrez. No sooner had it reached the broadsheets, the opposition counter attacked, saying, “Noy wants war, war he’ll get!” And this is where the word war had taken a sharp turn drawing into the fray no less than ex-president and now congresswoman Gloria Macapagal Arroyo herself who claimed that the country has now a “vacuum of leadership” under P-Noy. Gloria also accused P-Noy’s administration of being obsessed in “demonizing” her. But deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte was quick to belie Gloria’s claim, saying, “We just cannot avoid addressing the problems we inherited from her when President Benigno Aquino III assumed office last June 30.” Touché!

With Gloria deeply embroiled in a word war with P-Noy, the battleground is set for the grand battles ahead, beginning with the Senate trial on the impeachment of Merci, which is scheduled to start on May 9, 2011.

P-Noy’s political future might hinge on Merci’s impeachment trial. If Merci were impeached, then P-Noy would be ready to take the final offensive against Gloria; otherwise, his anti-corruption campaign might take a severe setback. Indeed, it could be so severe that it could bring his anti-corruption crusade to shambles and usher in the return of the corrupt dynasties for a clean sweep of the elections in 2016.

SWS surveys

With P-Noy’s recent Social Weather Station (SWS) “favorable” rating down by five percent (from 74% to 69%) and his “unfavorable” rating doubling (from 9% to 18%) with a net rating of 51%, he has to change his strategy if he wants to achieve the Pagbabago (change) that he promised during the campaign last year.

Although he made an impressive progress in revving up the economy – the GDP per capita has doubled in the past 10 years to $2,000! -- he has yet to address the plight of the poor. Hunger continues to be the biggest obstacle in the fight against poverty. Under his watch, 20.5%( up from 15.9%) of respondents experienced hunger in the past three months while 51% (up from 48%) considered themselves to be poor. However, hunger and poverty have been prevalent for at least the past decade.

The danger that P-Noy faces is if he can’t find a way to alleviate the suffering of the poor, then the poor could turn – in desperation -- to a false “messiah” in the 2016 election, who would hammer in the argument that the 1986 EDSA people power revolution failed and that the people were better off before the “Yellow Army” took over the land. It’s an effective populist demagoguery -- give hope to the hopeless -- that panders to the emotions of the powerless poor.

Indeed, when people find themselves aimlessly wandering in the wilderness of hopelessness, they’re prone to fall prey to charlatans peddling snake oil to cure the social ills of the country. And, yes, they’re already out there. Some have already gone to the extent of repackaging and waxing over the “failures” of the past into bright “promises” of the future. And if you were poor and hungry, wouldn’t you take it?

Corruption

P-Noy needs to remember that he was overwhelmingly elected on his campaign promise, “Walang corrupt, walang mahirap” (No corruption, no poverty). Although he kept on telling the people that he’s going after corrupt officials in his government as well as those in the previous administration, not much has been done, which make people wonder if he is really serious about fighting corruption. His cry of “Heads will roll!” is beginning to sound like a broken record. Indeed, heads have yet to roll.

P-Noy had a chance to prove that he was serious about fighting corruption when his “shooting buddy,” Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Rico E. Puno, was accused of receiving payola from jueteng lords. Many believe that Puno was corrupt to the bone. When Puno publicly offered to resign from his position, P-Noy should have accepted it without batting an eye. Instead, he reaffirmed his unqualified confidence and told him to stay. Since then Puno has stealthily performed in his job, quietly laying low out of the range of the media’s radar. However, his “phantom” existence in a sensitive government post makes people wonder why P-Noy would still keep him like an albatross around his neck.

Recently, the Department of Justice (DOJ) recommended that Land Transportation Office (LTO) Chief Virginia Torres be suspended for the failed takeover of Stradcom, the sole information technology service provider of LTO. In addition, DOJ also recommended that administrative charges be filed against her. Some people also suggested that she takes a leave of absence. Instead, P-Noy told Torres – she is also one of P-Noy’s “shooting buddies” -- to stay on. A few days ago, however, he finally told her to take a two-month leave of absence. But why only two months? Is it because Torres is a member of the politically powerful Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), which threw its support behind P-Noy’s presidential bid last year?

Poverty

In my article, “Rx for Poverty and Corruption” (Global Balita, December 9, 2005), I wrote: “A study made by Management Systems International in Washington, DC, in 2003, has concluded: ‘Corruption has direct consequences on economic and government factors, intermediaries that in turn produce poverty.’ The study produced two models. On the one hand, the ‘economic model’ postulates that corruption affects poverty by first impacting economic growth factors, which, in turn, impact poverty levels. In other words, ‘Increased corruption reduces economic growth which would increase poverty.’ On the other hand, the ‘government model’ asserts that corruption affects poverty by first influencing governance factors, which, in turn, impact poverty levels. In other words, ‘Increased corruption reduces governance capacity which would increase poverty.’ ”

Discipline

If P-Noy really wants to eradicate corruption and poverty, then he should – nay, must – impose harsh discipline at all levels of the government. Indeed, it can be said: “If poverty is the fever and corruption is the disease; then, the prescription is discipline.”

If P-Noy has to clean up his house of corruption, he should start with the “housekeepers,” some of who are his personal friends, before he could truly sanitize the entire house of the “disease.”

At the end of the day, P-Noy holds the key to achieving the ideals of EDSA 1. While it’s sad that real progress and change were stalled when the sham EDSA 2 catapulted Gloria to power in 2001, the prospect for change and real reforms has never been brighter than in P-Noy’s presidency.

If he wants to be an effective and respected leader, he must follow the dictum: “Loved by his friends, feared by his enemies.” Indeed, his friends will always respect him; but to his enemies, their respect will only come with fear.

(PerryDiaz@gmail.com)

Martin Nievera: The Knockout Concert

A Las Vegas concert to benefit ABS CBN Foundation International’s “Sagip Kapamilya sa Japan”

Redwood City, Calif. (April 15, 2011) - ABS CBN Foundation International will host a one night performance by Martin Nievera, acclaimed balladeer and Concert King of the Philippines. “Martin Nievera: The Knockout Concert” will take place on Friday, May 6, 2011 at 7PM at the Hollywood Theatre at MGM Grand Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Presented in partnership with Codinera-Chua Productions and PAE Live!, the fund raiser show is part of a weekend of Filipino-related events which includes the shows of Filipino-American comedian, Jo Koy, and the much anticipated Manny Pacquiao/Sugar Shane Mosley fight on May 7.

“Martin Nievera: The Knockout Concert” will benefit Sagip Kapamilya sa Japan (Saving Family Members in Japan), a relief and assistance program directed to Filipinos who were affected by the recent tsunami and earthquake disasters in Japan.

“I heard from my kapamilya how the Filipinos who have made Japan their second home were affected and I wanted to help,” shared Martin Nievera. “Thank God Sagip Kapamilya and my producers had the same idea and moved quickly to make a difference.” The homecoming performance for Martin Nievera at the MGM promises great music and special guest performers.

On March 11, a magnitude 8.9 quake unleashed a 23-foot tsunami and was followed by more than 50 aftershocks. A few hours later, the Pacific Rim was blanketed with tsunami warnings. The Japanese government alerted residents near a nuclear power plant in Onahama City to evacuate, for fear of a radiation leak. On April 7, a 7.4 magnitude tremor hit once more.

The Philippine embassy in Japan reports that there are 305,972 Filipinos living in Japan, many of whom were affected by the devastation.

“Many Filipinos in Japan lived within and around the Fukushima area and were affected by the recent disasters,” says J. Robbie Fabian, President of ABS CBN Foundation International. “We created a special hotline for them to call. There are requests for food, bottled water, medicines, temporary housing, and even assistance to relocate back to the Philippines.”

Tickets to the event are $100 and $75 and are available at any MGM Grand ticketing outlet. To charge by phone, call (800) 929-1111 or (702) 891-7777. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.mgmgrand.com, www.ticketmaster.com or www.abscbnfoundation.org. Direct donations to Sagip Kapamilya sa Japan can also be made through the same foundation website or sent to ABS CBN Foundation International at 150 Shoreline Drive, Redwood City, CA 94065.

ABOUT ABS CBN FOUNDATION INTERNATIONAL:
ABS CBN Foundation International is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of disadvantaged Filipino children and their families in the Philippines and around the world. Its flagship program, Bantay Bata (Child Watch), is a child abuse rescue operation that responds to an average of 15,300 calls for assistance a year. The program assists more than 21,000 children and families in relocation communities and feeds at least 4,400 severely malnourished children a year. Its education program serves 4.2 million elementary school children and their teachers.

Philippine Consulate General LA conducts Emergency Preparedness meeting

Los Angeles, 4 April 2011 – The Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles held an Emergency Preparedness Meeting on 1 April 2011 at the Consulate General with Mr. James G. Featherstone, General Manager, Emergency Management Department, City of Los Angeles, as Resource Person.

Mr. Featherstone emphasized how important it is for each individual to be prepared to take care of themselves and their loved ones after a disaster.

The meeting aims to create awareness on how to cope with emergency situations while at home, in transit or at the office and to develop a mechanism of effective coordination, through Area Coordinators, in times of emergencies.

The Consulate, during times of emergencies, will become the central coordinating office for the Filipino community. The Philippine Disaster Relief Organization (PeDRO) accepted the challenge of organizing leaders and volunteers from the Filipino-American community to effectively respond to emergencies in their areas.

Ready to Shake

By Jay Fermin

Every year, millions of volunteers participate in Southern California ‘Great ShakeOut’ drill. From schools, to civic and church organization, to neighborhood groups; they have one goal: to ‘Drop, Cover, and Hold On’ during a strong earthquake.

After all, California is not a stranger to earthquakes. We have felt the strength of the 1994 Northridge Quake. We get rattled by a few smaller ones every now and then. Flashback images come to mind of the 1906 San Francisco 7.8 tremblor that caused a massive fire because the underground water main pipes were disconnected and there was no water pressure from the fire hydrants.

We cannot predict the next event, however we can prepare if we understand and educate ourselves with what we might expect to happen. The only way to do this is to tell a story of a ‘sample scenario’ of what we call ‘The Big One.’ And remember, this is only a drill:

Thursday 9:00 a.m.

200,000 commuters have made their way from neighbouring Kern, Riverside, and San Bernardino Counties to work in the Los Angeles Area. Everybody is excited for the approaching weekend. They have joined almost 7 million other southern Californians in the workplace from nearby suburbs.

Trucks and trains are on the move, being the pipeline of commerce and industry for Los Angeles. Underground cables connect the already busy day thru phone and internet, connecting banks, large corporations, suppliers, buyers and sellers, as well as friends and families.

It is a well known fact that the San Andreas Fault slices thru California and marks the boundary between the Pacific and the North American tectonic plates. They are locked into each other, trying to slide past each other for the past 150 years. This huge faultline has a history of rupture every 150 years. However, the last time was more than 300 years ago.

Thursday 10:10 a.m.

At Bombay Beach, northeast of the Salton Sea where the San Andreas faultline ends (extending thru-out California northward for 800 miles and exits the land area at Daly City near San Francisco), the faultline begins to awaken. The rupture travels northward up towards the Coachella Valley into Cajon Pass.

Although the people in Los Angeles has not felt it yet, the first waves cuts off the Interstate 15 freeway, bending railroad lines, and derailing trains. Roads are severed by crevices, and the other side lifts 15 feet up. Pipeline snap and electrical lines fail.

Strong shaking intensifies in the sediment filled basin of the Inland Empire. Buildings are damaged as the force of quake rumbles northward, spreading wider as a ripple on water. The waves are long and some structures cannot withstand, especially the ones made of brick and concrete. However, other buildings ride the massive waves, like boats on the ocean.

Thursday 10:11:30 a.m.

As the Coachella Valley still shakes, the seismic waves advance rapidly towards Los Angeles and surroundng areas. The shaking is felt stonger on the flat soft valleys and causes a blackout. The building damage causes tens of thousands of injuries and hundreds of fatalities, and many more thousands are stranded where they are because the freeway and the roadways are impassable.

Some are trapped on elevators, kitchen floors at people’s homes are littered with broken glass and heaps of cooking oil, syrup, flour, smashed dishes, and the hundreds of miles of water pipes are mostly disconnected, cutting off the water supply.

The freeways are a massive parking lot and people go out of their cars and start walking. Electric trains and bus transport are paralyzed too. Some of the people are waiting in the dark, waiting to be rescued.

Thursday 10:12 a.m. (2 minutes after the quake began)

Finally, the fault has stopped rupturing, but seismic waves continue to advance into Bakersfield and Santa Barbara counties in the north. Here, the shaking is just beginning.

Thursday 10:15 a.m.

Government agencies finally posts preliminary assessment of the earthquake. It is a 7.8 on the richter scale. Some of the TV and radio stations are still out but some are slowly starting to broadcast. Fire Trucks are moving slowly among the debris but they are not stopping. Their standard operating procedure is to survey their area of responsibility and look for the hardest hit area before they can respond. Across Southern California, cell phones, internet, and landline become unusable, overwhelmed by the vast number of attempted calls.

Thursday 10:45 a.m.

The emergency operations centers are activated, and police, fire, and medical personnel including CERT Community Emergency Response Teams are deployed slowly, focusing on the localized areas that are hard hit.

While the quake still travels northbound far from the epicenter, people are able to help others who are trapped or wounded in the damaged structures. Lacking gloves and proper protective equipment, a few more hundred civilians are wounded by broken glass, sharp objects, and the smaller aftershocks which are now occuring. They claw thru the debris with their bare hands.

Hundreds of airliners from around the world are now being diverted away from Southern California, creating an air traffic controller nightmare. As millions soon discover, they are cut off from their family members, with no way to contact them.

Fires and plumes of smoke rises from around the metropolis. This is coming from ruptured underground gas lines and other chemical depots. There is just not enough emergency personnel to help and immediately respond.

The solution:

The best time to prepare for an earthquake is before it happens.

Be educated on what to expect and how to ‘drop, cover, and hold on’ under the table or desk during the shaking. Remember, as long as nothing hits your head, you will be okay. Practice this with the members of your family or your co-workers. Do not run outside the building as falling objects may hit you. After the shaking has stopped, survey your surroundings and plan a safe escape route.

It is good to bolt on heavy objects at your house like TV and Water Heaters. Place heavy things like books on shelves nearer to the floor. Stock up on water of 1 gallon per person per day for 3 days. Also have non-perishable food like canned goods, or food bars that does not require cooking. As a rule of thumb, you should have 8000 calorie food bars for each person for the duration of the 72 hours after the earthquake when emergency resources are stretched out, and the atm might not be working, and if it does, the grocery stores will be running out of food items.

Keep extra medication if you need them in your car, work. and home. Have a pair of rubber shoes also at these three locations, as it will be very hard to walk on your high heels amid the debris. Have a helmet and goggles handy, and rubber boots and a pair of rubber gloves if possible just in case you need to clear out fallen objects or need to extract yourself from a structure.

Stock up a bag full of extra clothes in your office and the car just in case you won’t be able to get home in these 3 days following the disaster. Designate a family or friend from out of state that will be your main contact person. You might not be able to call within the state, but there will be a good chance that you can make phone calls outside of the state.

If you have pets, make sure they have a supply of food and water and count them in when you do your emergency preparedness pack. Have pneumatic flashlights and AM radio ready, the ones that do not need batteries. An emergency blanket can also be handy especially if the temperature dips during the night and there is no electricity.

Plan on having first aid kits even in the car or office. These may include bandages, antibiotic creams, scissors, latex glove and antiseptic wipes. Include pain relievers in your pack. If you know how to use them, or if you are a licensed operator, you can purchase two-way radio for communication. Check with your local authorities for licensing and frequency allocations.

Include hand tools that you feel you might need to move heavy objects out of your way. Also have an amount of money ready, as the banks and atm will be non operational. Have a copy of all your important records like birth certificates and other legal documents in a water-proof plastic container to enable you to establish identity when needed.

The best way to plan your preparation is to get information from the American Red Cross, the Federal Emergency Management Agency(FEMA) and customized these lists to suit your needs. You can also join the local CERT Community Emergency Response Team at your community. CERT is admistered by the Los Angeles Fire Department and / or the Sheriffs Department and administered by Homeland Security. You can visit their website at www.cert-la.com

Do not become a liability. Now is the time to prepare to Shake.