VP Binay, big showbiz names guest of honor in 6th Puregold Convention to grace 6th Puregold ‘Sari-Sari’‘Sari-Sari’ Convention opening...
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Manila, PHILIPPINES
May 6-12, 2011
‘Moment of truth’ TALK is cheap. Cut it. Now, both camps have to put aside talks on early round stoppage and all that jazz as our very own eight-world titlist in Cong. Manny Pacquiao tangles with Shane Mosley up the ring on Sunday in Las Vegas, Nevada. Truly, it’s the moment of truth and the Philippines’ eight-division world champion Manny Pac is set to defend his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight belt against Sugar Shane Mosley on May 7 (May 8 in Manila) at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. Pacquiao, boxing's No. 1 pound-forpound king, parades 52-3-2 record with 38 knockouts while Mosley boasts of a 46-6-1 card, with 39 wins coming by way of knockout.
PACQUIAO
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‘Iron Lady’ resigns... Will Pichay, et al, do the same tack?
SEXY actress Cristine Reyes has promised to talk less this year so as to avoid controversies that hounded her showbiz career in the past. See page 7 or log on to www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
Obviously, Ombudswoman Merceditas Gutierrez succumbed to the political pressure heaped upon her by the Aquino Administration but she beat them to the draw by abruptly resigning. Will the nature of political vindictivism now stop and gear up to pro-people thrust? Or, will the other GMA remnants like Prospero Pichay follow the lead? www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
MOSLEY
Wedding of the century
NATION..............
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Blessed John Paul II
NATION................
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LRT extension, MRT privatization among first batch of PPP program See page 4 or log on to www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com for full story...
NATION
2 METRO EXPRESS
MAY 6-12,2011
The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
Nation Roundup DENR to assist LGUs to level up solid waste management in Metro Manila THE Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is set to provide one million peso fund assistance to local government units to level up solid waste management compliance in Metro Manila. “The DENR is ready to provide as much as one million pesos to each local government unit within Metro Manila to assist them in monitoring the compliance, particularly of subdivisions and condominiums, in the implementation of Republic Act (RA) No. 9003,” DENR Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje said. Republic Act 9003, also known as the Ecological Solid Waste Management (ESWM) Act of 2000, explicitly puts the responsibility of solid waste management on local government. However, Paje explained that the fund support is an approach taken by the DENR, being the chairman of the National Solid Waste Management Commission (NSWMC), to enhance compliance to the law at the local level, particularly in the metropolis where the garbage problem remains a critical social as well as an environmental issue.
Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Ramon J. P. Paje (right) hands out samples of compostable bags and styropor during the Metro Manila Council meeting at the Parañaque City Hall. Paje said the bags and styropor, which are manufactured from potatoes and corn, have a shelf life of only eight months and are completely biodegradable within two weeks when mixed with soil in disposal facilities. Holding the samples are Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino (left) and Parañaque City Mayor Florencio Bernabe, Jr. Paje presented to the Metro Manila mayors updates on the DENR’s programs on clean air, urban greening, and solid waste management.
7,000 ‘speed demons’ run caught along Commonwealth AT LEAST 7,000 violators were caught on the 60-kilometer speed limit on Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City which is being imposed by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). MMDAChairman Francis Tolentino said the move aims to remind the public that the agency is serious in implementing the speed limit on Commonwealth Avenue. “Our campaign against speedsters will have no let-up. We will continue going after violators for the protection and safety of the public, specifically the pedestrians and commuters,” Tolentino said.
Some of the “speed demons” caught overspeeding by MMDA cameras placed along Commonwealth Avenue.
Million cheers as John Paul II declared 'blessed' QC, Pag-Ibig housing project
VATICAN CITY -- Pope Benedict XVI bestowed the status of "blessed" on his predecessor John Paul II in front of a million people in a ceremony that puts the late pope one step away from sainthood. A giant banner bearing a smiling portrait of the charismatic Polish pope was unveiled over the facade of Saint Peter's Basilica Sunday after Benedict pronounced the formula of beatification just six years after John Paul's death. Eighty-seven official delegations were also in attendance and pilgrims waved flags from around the world in the sun-drenched square, reprising the chant of "Santo Subito!" (Sainthood Now!) that had been shouted at his funeral.
Seychelles honeymoon for newlyweds PRINCE William and his wife Kate will honeymoon at a luxury villa on an island in the Seychelles, according to Monday's Daily Mail newspaper. The newly-weds delayed their honeymoon, but will jet out later this month to spend ten days at a £4,000 ($6,700, 4,500 euros) a night retreat in the Indian Ocean archipelago, the British paper reported. The 28-year-old prince's protection officers reportedly visited the top-secret location to assess its suitability and were satisfied that the isolated resort would offer the required privacy.
Wild, Weird, World! ‘Werewolf’ boy appeals for cure AN 11-year-old "werewolf" boy who desperately seeks a cure for his condition is baffling medical experts. Pruthviraj Patil is one of 50 in the world who suffers from hypertrichosis, a rare genetic condition known as Werewolf Syndrome. As a result his face and body is covered in thick, matted hair. But he is hoping doctors will one day find a cure for his ailment. Born in the Indian district of Sangli, near Bombey, he hardly ever leaves his village because of his fear of being traunted by strangers. The only parts of his body that are not covered with hair are the palms of his hands and soles of his feet.
The son of a well off farmer, his parents have tried homeopathy, traditional Ayurvedic remedies and laser surgery. But none of them have worked.
QUEZON City Mayor Herbert M. Bautista, Pag-ibig Fund Chairman Darlene Marie B. Berberabe, and Habitat for Humanity director Ricardo N. Jacinto have agreed pool resources for Quezon City’s massive, socialized housing and resettlement program. Mayor Bautista unveiled the city’s 1.58 hectare eco village at Barangay Payatas, Quezon City, which will house from 300 to almost 500 families.
QC Mayor Herbert Bautista displays the memorandum of agreement he signed with PAG-IBIG Fund.
Aviation expert airs concern over pilot crisis AN AVIATION expert yesterday warned on a clear and present danger hanging over the airline industry with the continuing brain drain of experienced pilots and airline technicians that may result in a desperate shortage of aircraft captains worldwide. “All major airlines are now competing against each other for services of good aircraft captains and the Philippines are greatly affected by it becauseour pilots are lured by huge salaries being offered,” said Capt. Benhur Gomez, aformer safety official of Philippine Airlines. Capt. Gomez, founder of the country’s No. 1 flying school Omni Aviation, said some international airlines are offering salaries of as much as $16,000 a month (P752,000) to Airbus A320 captains and $18,000 (P846,000) to $20,000 (P940,000) for Boeing 747 captains. “The shortage of aircraft captains is also being worsened by the booming airline industry in the country especially
Capt. Ben Hur Gomez
now that there are emerging budget airlines,” added Capt. Gomez. Capt. Gomez said that to be an aircraft captain of an international airline, a pilot or first officer must have at least three years flying experience or equivalent to 3,000 flying hours.
This shortage of captains, Capt. Gomez said, could result to delay in flights, and much worse, in scarcity of flights. With this, Capt. Gomez is encouraging students and professionals who want to have a career shift to look at this opportunity to have a good-paying job. “Mahal nga ang pag-aaral pero kapag nakapasok na sa airline industry, in two years time lang bawi na sa taas ng suweldo,” he said. At the same time, the founder of the country’s No. 1 aviation school has called on the government to strengthen its effort to crack down on “fly by night” flying schools so as not to compromise the safety and quality of future Filipino pilots who may be find jobs in other countries. “There should be a renewed effort from the government’s regulatory body to go after fly by night flying schools For full story, log on to www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
One of 27 Omni Aviation Corp. trainer aircraft.
MAY 6-12, 2011
METRO The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
METRO EXPRESS 3
P-Noy orders MMDA to improve public bus terminals system PRESIDENT Benigno Aquino III has ordered Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino to implement the centralized ticketing system and put up designated passenger waiting areas in all bus terminals to avoid chaotic situations during holiday seasons where thousands of commuters flock to the provinces. The President issued the directives to Tolentino when he visited the Araneta Center bus terminal in Cubao, Quezon City recently where he personally check the security preparations undertaken by concerned authorities to ensure the safety of passengers. The President admitted that he felt dismayed upon seeing the disorganized flow of passengers in and out of the terminal, and lack of passenger terminals where the people can stay on while waiting for their buses. He also tasked Tolentino to study the possible construction of a passenger bus terminal dedicated only for north plying buses and another for south direction.
President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is joined by UEM-MARA Philippines Corporation chairman Luis Juan Virata and DOTC Secretary Jose de Jesus for the ceremonial drive-thru during the inauguration of the Php5.5-billion Radial Road 1 (R1) Extension Project of the seven kilometer Manila-Cavite Toll Expressway Project in Kawit, Cavite. The construction of the Manila-Cavite Expressway or Aguinaldo Boulevard, owned and operated by the Public Estates Authority Tollway Corporation (PEATC), will provide a higher type of facility towards Cavite and alleviate traffic congestion along Aguinaldo Highway and Tirona Highway and will extend the existing 6.45-km Coastal Road from Zapote in Las Piñas to Tirona Highway in Kawit, Cavite.
Villar wants OFW voice in new crisis team
TO THE RESCUE: Nacionalista President and Villar Foundation founding chair Sen. Manny Villar was happy to see the safe return of the 15 distressed overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) from Dubai through the efforts of the Villar Foundation's SAGIP-OFW Helpline program. The arriving OFWs suffered abuse, maltreatment and low wages from their Arab employers. The safe homecoming of the 15 OFWs was the result of the consultation held by Villar with the OFWs during his recent visit to Dubai.
SENATOR Manny Villar said the newly created crisis team for overseas Filipino workers should also include consultation with the OFW sector to make sure all bases are covered in the quest to handle situations affecting Filipinos abroad more effectively. "To make this team more effective in the handling of future crisis situation, it would be ideal for the body to consult respected migrant workers group like Migrante International, Blas Ople Foundation and others," Villar said. Executive Order 34 sets up the Overseas Preparedness and Response Team (OPRT) under the Office of the President. This will replace the Middle East Preparedness Team that was formed to deal with the evacuation of Filipino workers in the Middle East during the 2002 Iraq crisis. "The familiarity of OFW organizations with the problems, needs and requirements of OFWs will be an advantage and will contribute largely to the success of the crisis team," he said.
Some of the smuggled luxury cars that were ordered destroyed by the past administration.
Stiffer penalty for car smuggling sought UNSCRUPULOUS individuals may soon face stiffer penalty once a bill that addresses rampant smuggling of imported vehicles becomes a law. Tarlac Rep. Jeci Lapus said House Bill 4362 seeks to squarely address the problem of smuggling of imported vehicles and penalize individuals involved in the illegal activity. "The occurrence of registration of imported vehicles without clearances from the Bureau of Customs (BoC) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) remains unabated despite existing laws," said Lapus, author of the bill. He said perpetrators are able to register these vehicles with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) without clearances or with clearances tainted with irregularities.
Osama confirmed killed in Pakistan -- Obama
Gov’t to close housing gap in 10 years -- Binay THE government is fully committed to building 3,500 housing units every year to address the 3.6 million housing shortage within the next 10 years. Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council Chair Jejomar Binay expressed optimism that with the help of civic organizations and the private sector, this goal will be achieved. But beyond building houses for the people, he stressed that providing homes, especially to the poor, is a commitment to protect and strengthen the family as an institution. “A house is more than a roof over our heads. It is the physical foundation on which family life can be built,” the housing czar said in his message at the first Gawad Kalinga (GK) Hope Ball in Las Vegas, USA. The event seeks to bring together Filipinos and Filipino-Americans in the US.
WASHINGTON -- U.S. President Barack Obama announced Sunday night that a U.S. operation has killed al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden in Pakistan and put his body in U.S. custody. He said earlier in the day, U.S. military personnel raided a compound where bin Laden was hiding, and later confirmed that the terrorist leader was among those killed in a fire fight.
4 METRO EXPRESS
LRT NEWS
MAY 6-12,2011
The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
EASE THE BURDEN: The burden of ordinary Filipinos who ride the MRT and the LRT is eased with the shelving of the planned fare increase; which, on the flipside of side of it, could also alleviate their burden if they would support modernization plans of the ageing coaches and its vital parts.
LRT, MRT fare hike deferred THE Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA) and the DOTC- MRT-3 has announced it will defer the implementation of its adjustments pending the submission of its proposed rates to the LTFRB. Lawyer Hernando T. Cabrera, LRTA and MRT-3 spokesperson, said they cannot give a definite time frame as to when the fare adjustment will finally be imple-
mented since they will have to comply with the process mandated by the LRTA charter. Uander Executive Order No. 603, the LRTA has to consult the LTFRB prior to any adjustment in its fare and comply with the publication requirements. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
LRT extension, MRT privatization among first batch of PPP program LRT aids mom for another special delivery LIBERTAD STATION: Where it all happened
PRESIDENT Aquino has officially launched the first batch of Public-Private Partnership (PPP) infrastructure projects expected to stimulate the economy and provide thousands of employment opportunities. The first batch of five infra projects are the following: LRT 1 extension/ upgrading and privatization of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) and privatization of MRT 3 Operation and Maintenance (O&M), both up for public bidding this month (March); the Daang Hari Road - South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) link road project which is open for bidding on April;
the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Expressway Phase 2 on May; and the SLEX and North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) link project on June. The NAIA Expressway Phase II project will link Skyway and ManilaCavite Coastal Expressway, providing vital access to NAIA Terminals 1, 2, and 3. The P10.59 billion project will benefit economic zones in Cavite through the quicker transportation of products to NAIA as well as the Manila Port. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
LRT seems to be preggy moms' favorite transportation for delivery. Another pregnant woman on board almost gave birth in one of the stations of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Authority in Line 1 recently. Mary Ann Opedra, 22 years old of E.
Rodriguez St. Baclaran, Pasay City delivered her first child at Pasay General Hospital at around 8:44 am after being rushed by LRT frontline personnel to the nearest hospital near Libertad Station. Accompanied by her husband Renato,
On-duty Head Guard Arius Serioza said, the couple was on their way to Doroteo Jose station for Opedra’s monthly checkup in Fabella Memorial Hospital. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
ECOP official welcomes using MRT, LRT tickets as non-wage incentives workers A RANKING official of an association of employers in the country welcomes using the railway’s stored value tickets as non-wage incentives to employees. Rene Cristobal, member of the Board of Governors of the Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP), said the rails’ stored value tickets could join the package of nonwage benefits from employers like free sacks of rice, uniforms and medicines.
Cristobal, who is also chairman of ECOP’s corporate social responsibility committee and President of Tulay sa Pag-unlad, Inc. (TSPI), cited the contributions of the rail transit transport mode to employees’ productivity in the workplace. ECOP, composed of 50 large companies, represents over one million employees around the country. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
LRT’S ROOSEVELT STATION: Open again
LRT Balintawak, Roosevelt stations reopen THE two stations of the Light Rail Transit (LRT) Line 1 that were closed after a freak accident involving two trains last February finally reopened last April 11. Last Feb. 18, two LRT trains on the
way to Roosevelt station collided at the reversing track at the LRT-1 in Quezon City. An investigation showed one of the drivers was texting when the incident occurred. The two stations are part of the North
Extension Project that will link LRT-1 and MRT-3 through a common station which is expected to be completed next year. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
OPINION
MAY 6-12, 2011
METRO EXPRESS 5
The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
Need to upgrade LRT is now Machines and structures, for example: buildings, roads, bridges, viaducts or flyovers do have expiration dates. Ever wonder why cracks on pavements, concrete walls and what have you develop over time? These are the unavoidable wear and tear induced by time. As the saying goes: Nothing in this world is permaE D I T O R I A L nent except change. There may be exception to this rule yes, but only a few because nothing, indeed, lasts forever. The climate even, that we are used to is giving us a different experience now. Mind you, it’s summertime, and some areas are taking it otherwise: chilly mornings and late evenings. Only recently, the town of Rodriguez (formerly, Montalban) in the province of Rizal even experienced a minute of atmospheric phenomenon: a hailstorm in summer specifically last Wednesday, April 27. It rained small chunks of ice for a minute, which for some comes as very odd when summer is upon us. Maybe, this could be an ounce of miracle that’s actually sending us a message that time, by some measure, has changed or is in the process of changing. Similarly, buses, jeepneys, and other public conveyances may be aglow today but whether we like it or not, tomorrowtheir sparkling paints, joints, parts may no longer be as good and reliable as yesterday. Closer to home yet, your favorite fast and economical mode of transpo, the Light Rail Transit (LRT), may already be suffering malfunctions now and then in some areas that’s subtly telling us or the management and even to some extent, the government, that immediate attention and parts replacement in crucial areas is badly needed before disaster claim lives by the hundreds if not thousands. But no, this may not be as easy as what we are implying here because it is but normal that in every process of change there is and will always be flashes of resistance. Reactionary or backward-looking are those resisting to embark into a newer and safer mode of transport but this we believe to be temporary especially in the absence of a thorough information drive. Indeed, who will go against the tide of a better change or wave of transformation? The “new” South Luzon Expressway is now charging motorists a little more than double the previous toll fee but luckily it seems no one is complaining these days owing perhaps to the better service it has now. From the previous P87 one way toll fee end to end, it balooned to P192 for Class A vehicles but no matter. Motorists learned to silently suffer and reap the benefits of change and this, mind you, vis-a-vis the fluctuating prices of fuel! Truly, quality never comes cheap. This also explains why 5-star hotels are a lot more expensive than your standard motel. It’s about the service. And so, LRTizens must think about better change and that better service never comes cheap but affordable enough. The Metro Express is published weekly by SANZIBAR INC. with office address at Unit 2410 Cityland 10 Tower 1 Condominium, H.V. Dela Costa St., Salcedo Village, Makati City with tel. no. 470-3762. For press and photo releases as well as adverttising inquiries, text or call Advertising Manager Eugene Labadan tru mobiles 0908-9874708 and 09175437729 or Hotlines Globe 09155517486 and Smart 0919-5794784. Email: esns03@yahoo.com.
George M. Balagtas Publisher
Ismael ‘El’ Amigo Editor-in-Chief
Fitzgerald Cecilio Executive Editor
Racquel Mendoza Advertising Manager
Eugene Labadan PR, Marketing & Circulation Manager
EDITOR’S NOTE All commentaries and or opinions submitted by our columnists and herein published shall remain as personal opinion of any of Metro Express’ column writers. As such, these cannot and never be construed nor considered as similar to that of this publication (Metro Express)’s stand on issues discussed. Be that as it may, Metro Express shall not be held liable to any legal issues related to, or any column/commentaries that may appear herein.
MATUTO NA TAYO! The message is clear: “Bawal umihi dito!” Our small contribution may lead to bigger, better changes.
End of line for Osama OSAMA Bin Laden is dead. For the Americans and its allies he was as ‘terrorist’ a cold-blooded assassin. To the oppressed Muslims around the world Bin Laden was a hero, a martyr for their cause. Now that Bin Laden is ‘terminated’ will the American soldiers leave Afghanistan at once? To those who followed Bin Laden, he was the symbol of al Qaeda. The United States can claim a great victory. Al Qaeda can proclaim his martyrdom. According to STRATFOR, an American Think Tank, “it is difficult to understand what this means at this moment, but it permits the Obama administration to claim victory, at least partially, over al Qaeda. It also opens the door for the beginning of a withdrawal from Afghanistan, regardless of the practical impact
BENJIE ALEJANDRO
Voice of the News of bin Laden’s death. The mission in Afghanistan was to defeat al Qaeda, and with his death, a plausible claim can be made that the mission is complete. Again speculatively, it will be interesting to see how this affects U.S. strategy there.” ‘At this early hour, the only thing possible is
speculation on the consequences of bin Laden’s death, and that speculation is inherently flawed. Still, the importance of his death has its consequences. Certainly one consequence will be a sense of triumph in the United States. For others it will be a call to war. “ In my interview with Prof. Rommel Banloi, Executive Director, Philippine Institute for Peace, Violence and Terrorism Research, the possibility of sympathy attack is always there considering that the local terror group the Abu Sayyaf is recipient of funding from Bin Laden thru local Al Qaeda group. However, National Security Adviser Cesar Garcia, downplayed the possibility. So be it. Read full article on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
Cong. Peping lambasts LP LIFE’S INSPIRATIONS: “… without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him….” (Hebrews 11:6, the Holy Bible). -oooCONG. PEPING LAMBASTS LP: Calling news reports and opinion columns naming him as the leader of an opposition group against President Aquino as “miserably misleading”, former Tarlac Rep. Jose “Peping” Cojuangco Jr. said Sunday he is not involved in any way with any opposition force against the President. In a press statement, the presidential uncle also lambasted the Liberal Party headed by its President Mar Roxas for putting the blame on ex-Rep. Cojuangco for their loss in the May 2010 elections, saying it was the Filipino people who “emphatically rejected LP’s unacceptable candidates, including Mar Roxas for vice president.”
ATTY. BATAS MAURICIO
Kakampi Mo Ang Batas We are reproducing the entire press statement here, and here is the first part: “I used to be more widely known as the bayaw of Ninoy. Then as the husband of Tingting. Then as the brother of President Cory. Then as the Dad of Mikee. And now course, as the uncle of President Aquino.
-oooCONG. PEPING’S PRESS STATEMENT, PART I: “I also know that my name is one of those inevitably mentioned whenever critics of our family bring up their well worn smear word as their all-purpose demolition device Kamaganak, Inc. “The notion of a Kamaganak Inc is as revolting and repulsive to me as it is to everyone, and even more so to all of our family members who have had to bear this unfair and unfounded burden that has come with the territory of having a President in the family. And now, two Presidents. “The fact is that we Pilipinos overwhelmingly elected Cory's only son because we want her courage and honesty to continue guiding our leaders in governing the country, regardless of the qualifications, experience, or abilities of her senator child…” More of this next time. Watch out for it.
Desperate move? MANY people see President Aquino's visit to the Ninoy Aquino International Airport and a provincial bus station in Cubao, Quezon City during the Holy Week break as a desperate move to prop up his approval rating. While it’s good to show the public that he is a hands-on Chief Executive, some, including former President Fidel Ramos, are saying that he should let the Philippine National Police (PNP) handle such situations. FVR described P-Noy’s move as “bakya” or cheap, adding that the President should focus on more important things and not intervene with the responsibility of the PNP. I will not be surprised if P-Noy would make a round of visits to the marketplaces and even malls just to stop the downhill trend of his rating. Ika nga sa Pilipino, ang taong nagigipit sa patalim kumakapit. -000I understand that P-Noy’s style of governance is micro-managing, where he puts emphasis on little things, just like what he did with wang-wangs or sirens.
ISMAEL ‘EL’ AMIGO
Better Late Than Never But P-Noy must not forget that there more important things to focus on, like the uncontrollable oil price hike and high toll fees. I am worried that P-Noy putting premium on small things might sidetracked his vision on more important issues hounding the country. Mr. President, please put your priorities straight and not waste your strength on “pa-pogi” moves that may greatly affect your popularity rating. Huwag mong isipin ang popularidad,
isipin mo ang mga bagay na makakaganda sa bansa. -000If he wants to be known as a great leader and not just a shadow of her late mother Cory Aquino, P-Noy should take the criticism of Maguindanao Rep. Simeon Datumanong seriously. Datumanong earlier criticized Aquino lack of political will to eradicate corruption in government. The lawmaker said the people will work with the government to fight corruption and any evil of society as long as government rules with justice, fairness and established rights. Datumanong’s reaction came after P-Noy said that the country would be able to overcome its current political and economic woes if the government gets the support of the people. -0001st-APLUMA is on for a better change, wider political thrust and scope. Its acronym translation now reads: Unang Alyansang Pambansa at Lokal na Ugnayang Mamamahayag-Manggagawa.
6 METRO EXPRESS
BUSINESS The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
MAY 6-12,2011
P17-B earmarked for Manila North Harbor modernization PRESIDENT Aquino was given a first-hand look on the P17-billion Manila North Harbor Modernization Project (MNHMP) recently. Richard Barclay, chief executive officer of the Manila North Harbor Port, Inc. gave the President a briefing on the said modernization project. The MNHMP is a radical plan to change the face of the existing harbor to make it at par with other commercial harbors. Rehabilitation plans include dredging, upgrading of passenger terminal facilities and the procurement of quay container cranes, among others. The MNHMP will take 25 years to complete.
Japan disasters’ effect on exports only short-term -- NEDA THE National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) said that the Japan disasters’ effect on electronics demand may affect the Philippines’ export performance, but only in the short-term. “There are indications that the softening demand will be compounded in the coming months by shortages of certain electronic components due to disasters in Japan that have started to negatively affect the electronics industry,” said NEDA Director-General Cayetano W. Paderanga, Jr, who made this statement after the National Statistics Office (NSO) released the February 2011 export earnings that amounted to US$3.864 billion, or a modest growth of 8.2 percent from the same month last year. This brought total export receipts in the first two months of 2011 to rise by 10.0 percent to US$7.9 billion. The Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) expects full year exports growth to decelerate this year to 13 percent partly due to base effect and the softening of the demand in some segments of the electronics industry. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
DESTROYED: Hundreds of brand-new Toyota cars litter in the wake of the powerful tsunami from the magnitude 9.0 quake that devastated Japan last month.
DA completes 53 agricultural tramline system
CDO faces P1.1B smuggling case
IN AREAS where there are no roads nor would be too costly to construct one, farmers are now literally “clinging on” agricultural tramlines. Made of steel cable, pulleys and steel cage as “cable car” or carriage, a tramline has become a cheaper, more efficient and faster mode of transporting farm products from isolated areas to the nearest road onto trading posts or public markets. Thanks to the ingenuity of Department of Agriculture (DA) engineers, particularly at the Philippine Center for Post harvest
THE Bureau of Customs has filed a P1.1 billion smuggling case against meat processing firm Foodsphere, Inc. for undervaluing its buffalo meat importations from India by more than 32 percent. Charged were Rolando Juan Cruz, Assistant Vice-President for Finance of CDOFoodsphere Inc. and Romeo Lerit, a customs broker based in Escolta, Manila. Also included in the charge sheet were several John Doe/s and Jane Doe/s who participated directly or indirectly in the release of subject shipments. Customs Commissioner Angelito Alvarez accused Foodsphere Inc. located at 560 West Service Road, Paseo de Blas, Valenzuela City of declaring a per kilo value of only US$1.50 (P66.00) for the 8,964,600 kilograms of buffalo meat it brought in between October 2009 and March this year. Foodsphere , the company behind such popular processed and canned brands as CDO Karne Norte and Samba Corned Beef is a leading supplier of meat toppings to nearly all quick service restaurants in the country. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
Development and Mechanization (PhilMech), formerly known as the Bureau of Postharvest Research and Extension (BPRE). “Agricultural tramlines are indeed more cost-efficient than constructing farm-to-market roads (FMRs),” saidAgriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala, who led the recent inauguration of the 53rd DA-PhilMech tramline at Sitio Bawek, BarangayTwin Peaks, in the town ofTuba, Benguet. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
Customs plugs revenue leaks
Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala (2nd from right) receives vegetables from La Paz Barangay Kagawad Edgardo Serna transported through the newly-installed agricultural tramline system at Sta. Rita, La Paz , Zamboanga City.
CUSTOMS Commissioner Angelito Alvarez has ordered the adoption of worldwide freight rate reference for containerized cargoes to deny tax cheats one of their age-old tricks for duties and taxes avoidance. Alvarez said the Bureau of Customs was losing more than P1.3 billion a year from freight undervaluation due to absence of a reliable reference rate which the agency’s assessment personnel could use to check under-declarations in freight charges. Until recently, mere photocopies of the bill of lading submitted by the importer/ broker were accepted by customs assessment personnel as valid supporting documents in import entry declarations. “More often than not”, disclosed Alvarez, “the photocopies of bills of lading being received by customs personnel did not reflect the actual transportation costs paid for the importation, thereby resulting in revenue loss.”
SHOWBIZ
MAY 6-12, 2011
The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
METRO EXPRESS 7
VP Binay, big showbiz names to grace 6th Puregold ‘Sari-Sari’ Convention opening Vice President and Presidential Adviser on Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) Jejomar Binay has been invited guest of honor and speaker during the opening ceremony of the 6th Puregold Sari-Sari Convention slated May 18-21, 2011 at the World Trade Center, Pasay City. Big names in business as well as celebrities and Puregold endorsers in Boy Abunda, Vic Sotto and Joey de Leon are also expected to grace the occassion. And as testament of its commitment to help OFWs, Puregold will put up a special booth during the 6th edition of its highly-successful “Tindahan ni Aling Puring SariSari Store Convention” solely allocated for “modern-day heroes” who may wish to put up a sari-sari store or small scale business. The move is part of Puregold’s active partnership with different government agencies to help OFWs start their own small business. The convention, considered as the biggest small- and medium-entrepreneur gathering in the country, carries the theme “SIKAP - Sari-sari Store, Itaguyod Kasama ang Puregold”. The event’s mission is to bring out the entrepreneur in every Filipino by encouraging them to engage in small-scale business like the sari-sari store. Expected to join the event are 150,000 active members of Puregold’s Tindahan ni Aling Puring club, composed mainly of small-scale entrepreneurs such as sari-sari store owners, canteen and restaurant operators and resellers. Non-members who are interested to put up a business can join the event on May 20 to 21 where they can get expert advice on what kind of small-scale enterprise to put up with the help of Puregold. This years’ convention will be participated in by over 200 Puregold trade partners and will showcase over 350 booths. Aside from this, lectures and seminars for small-scale entrepreneurs will be given by motivational and professional speakers, including Francisco Colayco, Chinkee Tan, Francis Kong, Lloyd Luna and Jojo Baldo. Colayco will tackle the topic “Pisobilities - Pera Ko Palaguin Ko” while Tan will talk about “Good credit = Good business, Ang mabuting utang ay magandang puhunan”. Kong will expound on the topic “ Be the best you can be ; Ako at ang Sari-sari store ko – D’Best!”, Luna will speak about “Ang sikreto ng tagumpay SIKAP ang kasagutan” and Baldo will discuss “Bro! Ang sandalan ko sa negosyo”. Attendees are also in for a lot of surprises like free items, sampling, exciting raffle prizes and big discounts on products.
METRO HAPPENINGS IFEX Philippines 2011 -- The largest and the most outstanding food exposition in Philippines. May 12, 2011 to May 14, 2011, SMX Convention Center Metro Manila Celebrations 2011 -- An important bridal accessories and special events fair in Philippines. May 21, 2011 to May 22, 2011, SMX Convention Center Metro Manila Trans Sport Show -- The longest running exposition in Philippines devoted to automotive industry. May 25, 2011 to May 29, 2011, SMX Convention Center, Manila. KENNY G IN CONCERT -- May 23, 2011 8:00pm, PICC Plenary Hall KENNY LOGGINS IN CONCERT -- May 22, 2011 8:00PM, SMX Convention Center MAROON 5 LIVE IN MANILA 2011 -- May 23, 2011 8:00PM Monday. SMX Convention Center JUSTIN BIEBER IN MANILA -- May 10, 2011 (8:00PM) SM Mall of Asia Concert Grounds Intramuros Heritage Run -- May 15, 2011 @ 5AM, Sta. Lucia St. cor. Anda St., Intramuros BEAULDER (Bouldering Competition) -- May 28-29, 2011, Bonifacio High Street, Bonifacio Global City The Wedding & Debut Expo 2011, May 7-8, 2011, PICC Forum CCP Complex, Pasay City Before I Do 9th Weddings & Debut Fair, May 14-15, 2011, Megatrade Hall 1, SM Megamall
CROSSWORD
Across 1 "___ La Douce" 5 Flower part 10 Wound reminder 14 Blessing 15 "Zorba the Greek" setting 16 Italian man 17 Overstate 19 Actor Kristofferson 20 Former place for executions in London 21 Fortifications 23 Mother of Apollo 25 "The Mask" star 26 Ore analysis 29 Game with tiles 31 Look sullen 32 Agent, for short 33 Woodwind player 36 Boston Bruins legend
37 Official reprimand 39 Opus ___ 40 Verb-turned-noun 42 "No ___, ands or buts!" 43 Fido's reward 44 Sherry type 46 Encloses 47 Assemble, as troops 48 Self-pleased 50 Italian noblewoman 52 Wild parties 56 Mineral deposit 57 Outline 59 Junkie 60 All done 61 Bristle 62 Resting places 63 Portals 64 Eliot Ness, e.g.
Cristine Reyes
Less talk, less controversy SEXY actress Cristine Reyes has showbiz career in the past. promised to talk less this year so as to "Yung emotions ko, pagiging impulsive avoid controversies that hounded her ko, eh kailangan kong kontrolin kasi hindi na ako bata," said Cristine, who was linked to numerous issues in the entertainment inDown dustry, one of which was her Twitter out1 "A likely story!" 2 Classic theater name 3 Biblical land 4 Not curved 5 Bloodhound's trail 6 "To ___ is human ..." 7 Juicy fruit 8 Tack on 9 "Six Million Dollar Man" star 10 Indonesia's first president 11 Island in the Philippines 12 Friendship 13 One of TV's Friends 18 Western writer Zane 22 Deep-space mission 24 Portent 26 Sleep like ___ 27 Achy 28 Encircled 30 Orbital point 32 Set right 34 Dispatch 35 Binds 37 $100 bill 38 Alien craft 41 Heavy coats 43 Largest 45 "Twelfth Night" duke 46 Esteemed teacher 47 Elk 49 States of mind 50 Cudgel 51 Ray of films 53 Account entry 54 Blues singer James 55 Actor Connery 58 That woman
ANSWER NEXT ISSUE
burst on Pop Princess Sarah Geronimo. "Feeling ko kasi dati, eh bata pa kasi ako, eh.Akala kasi ng iba, eh matanda na ako dahil nga sa image ko." Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
I want to move on fromYilmaz -- Ruffa G.
RUFFA GUTIERREZ
TELEVISION host/actress Ruffa Gutierrez revealed that estranged husband Yilmaz Bektas wants to nullify their marriage as soon as possible. Ruffa filed for annulment last 2009 after her marriage did not work out with the Turkish businessman "Nagmamadali na din siya. Hiwalay na kami since 2007 and four years na eh." According to Ruffa, she's just waiting for the annulment because they've moved on with their separate lives.
It’s the world’s 1st 7-star hotel BURJ Al Arab Hotel, Dubai, which was opened in 1999, is unofficially billed as a 7star hotel and is the world's most luxurious and tallest hotel. Designed to resemble a billowing sail, the hotel soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai coastline. With your chauffeur driven Rolls Royce, discreet in-suite check in, private reception desk on every floor and a brigade of highly trained butlers who provide around-the-clock attention, this hotel promises the finest the world has to offer.
SPORTS
8 METRO EXPRESS
MAY 6-12,2011
The first free broadsheet in the Philippines!
TANONG: Manalo o matalo, pabor ba kayong tumigil na si Manny Pacquiao sa pagboboksing?
0100
SURVEY SAYS...
Pabor
1001 Hindi
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Pacman vs Floyd to get bigger if Pacquiao knocks out Mosley IS IT OVER? Spurs superstar Tim Duncan walks into the sunset unsure of his future.
Top-seeded Spurs fall to lowly Grizzlies
End of an era OVER the last 14 years, the San Antonio Spurs have been the model of success in the NBA. No mega superstars, no egos, no blockbuster signings, and no off-the-court problems. The Spurs built their franchise by investing heavily in the draft and signing players who silently contributed over the years. San Antonio could run-and-gun with the likes of Dallas and Phoenix or trade blow-for-blow with the top contenders in the
leagues. They could play to any situation at any time that it called for, until this year. The Spurs weren't just older, slower, and smaller, they were also outplayed, out-rebounded, out-muscled, and out-hustled by the eighth-seeded Memphis Grizzlies. If not for two amazing last second shots in Game 5, San Antonio would have lost four games to one. www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com
THE uncle of undefeated boxer Floyd Mayweather Jr. believes the bigger fight between his nephew and superstar Manny Pacquiao will push through if the Filipino dynamo succeeds in knocking out “Sugar” Shane Mosley. Jeff Mayweather, a retired boxerturned-boxing coach, told FightHype.com that Pacquiao knocking out Mosley means more interest for the possible super fight between the Filipino champion and Floyd Jr. “If he does knock him out, that's good because it's good business for the fight because the fight becomes even bigger between Manny and Floyd,” said Mayweather, who fought as a boxing pro in the 1990s.
MAYWEATHER
Ex-promoter expects Mosley to beat Pacquiao A FORMER promoter of “Sugar” Shane Mosley is confident that his former ward will beat Manny Pacquiao. Cedric Kushner said in an Examiner.com report that “absolutely,
Shane has a chance to win” in the 2 boxers’ welterweight clash, which will be held on May 7 (May 8 in Manila) at the MGM Grand Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. "I don't wish to speak in riddles so I'll
make it plain. I am picking Shane to win this fight over Pacman," the head of Cedric Kushner Promotions Ltd. said. The fight will put Pacquiao’s World Boxing Organization welterweight belt at stake.
Major attraction for UFC Fans of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) are not only drawn by outstanding fights inside the Octagon, but also by beautiful round-girls likeArianny Celeste. The 5-foot, 5-inch Celeste was voted "2009 Ring Girl of the Year" in 2010 by
Fighter's Only Magazine, an award she won the previous year as well. Maxim voted her "The Hottest UFC Octagon Girl" in the May 2010 issue where she was featured as the cover model.Arianny also appears in Maxim's Hot 100 list for 2010; she placed No. 23 on the list.
Arianny Celeste
D-League to fill PBL void PHILIPPINE Basketball Association (PBA) Commissioner Chito Salud expects the D-League could ably fill in the void left by the now-defunct Philippine Basketball League (PBL). “The competition is very fierce. You can see everyone, from the players and even the coaches and owners, giving their all in every game," said Salud, referring to the 13 teams that have joined the D-League. Read full story on www.metroexpressnews.yolasite.com http://1st-apluma.yolasite.com unangapluma@yahoo.com
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