April 1-15 Issue by CNM Communications

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The Philippines

Asia’s Next Big Thing? N the Philippines, developers are putting up luxury condo towers bearing names such as Starck and Trump. Japanese firms, including Canon, are building new plants. Work crews are preparing to improve run-down airports and pour concrete for new highways. Construction is the most visible sign of growth in the Philippines, a group of islands in Southeast Asia that was long shunned by foreign investors concerned about politi-

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The Philippines, which has many English speakers and a focus on services such as business process outsourcing, has a new opportunity to compete with China for manufacturing jobs amid rising Chinese labor costs.

Construction goes on furiously at the new Entertainment City rising at the reclaimed area along Manila bay. cal instability, crime and corruption. Now it looks set to succeed Indonesia as the next hot destination for investment. The headlines have been eye-catching: The Philippines’ 2012 GDP growth was more than 6 percent, while inflation was around 3 percent. The country’s stock market soared 33 percent last year, and its currency rose about 7 percent against the US dollar. The country’s leaders and many foreign banks are confident that 2013 will bring an investmentgrade credit rating. “I think people had sort of forgotten about the Philippines … they fell off the radar because governance problems and political instability masked their assets,” such as untapped mining resources and a youthful population, Credit Suisse economist Santitarn Sathirathai said. Sathirathai noted that average annual foreign direct investment in the Philippines was only $2 billion or less for the past five years. “Now (the Philippines) are back on the map, and I think that the impact of investor visibility could be significant,” he said.

Progress on many fronts Progress has come on several fronts. The government has signed a preliminary peace agreement with Muslim rebels, which could end a long insurgency and improve the investment climate. While previous President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo has battled several corruption charges, current leader Benigno Aquino III has vowed to crack down on such abuses, encouraging investor confidence. The Philippines, which has many English speakers and a focus on services such as business process outsourcing, has a new opportunity to compete with China for manufacturing jobs amid rising Chinese labor costs. Last year, as a territorial dispute between Japan and China sparked anti-Japanese protests in China, Japanese investment rose more than 10 percent via the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, which promotes investment in export-producing industries. Many Japanese companies are expanding their Philippines presence – Canon Business Machines Inc., for example, is at work on a plant to build laser printers.

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be much cheaper to send the video packages his company produces from his Philippines office to a neighboring country with stronger bandwidth, and then back to his clients in the Philippines.

New tourism campaign

A large youthful workforce largely proficient in English is a major attraction to foreign investors.

ness people, such as worn-out airports and poor telecommunications, says J. Alfonso de Dios, a Filipino who has companies both in China and his home country. De Dios, whose TVCXpress Manila sends digitized TV commercials and program content to local TV stations via exclusive broadband lines within the Philippines, says the country’s Internet infrastructure is not designed with wide bandwidths to accommodate large files. He says that it would actually

Tourism is another area where the country could stand to ramp up infrastructure. While the Philippines boasts thousands of islands and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, less than 2 percent of GDP revenue comes from tourism, compared to 7 or 8 percent in Thailand or Malaysia, Credit Suisse’s Sathirathai said. The country is pushing a new tourism campaign with the slogan, “It’s More Fun in the Philippines,” and a big casino complex is set to open in Manila Bay. Bill Barnett, the managing director of tourism consultancy and research company C9 Hotelworks, questions whether casinos are enough, and says it might be wise to diversify with theme parks or other attractions for middle-class, multigenerational Asian families. The Philippines – which, like Japan, is in the midst of a territorial dispute with China – also needs to lure tourists from China, who prefer Thailand and Indonesia, Barnett said. The country is betting big on gaming, and if the Chinese don’t come, who will? “The attitude toward the Chinese needs to be, ‘Let’s kiss and make up – and by the way, please come visit,’” he said. (The Financialist) n

“ WE DESIRE TO SERVE ALL YOUR NEEDS”

The government has launched an ambitious tourism program that aims to attract 10 million tourists a year.

Public-private partnership Meanwhile, the government is pushing public-private partnerships to improve or expand expressways, airports and schools, while real estate developers are targeting a growing middle class and wealthy Filipinos eyeing prestige properties. Developer Century Properties Group is at work on several such proj-

ects, including the Trump Tower Manila and a residence conceived with Philippe Starck’s residential design company. Yet the Philippines, coming from so far behind many of its neighbors, faces big challenges ahead. Though the government is working on infrastructure, there are still deterrents for busi-

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Manila Opens Bid

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to Join Global Gambling Elite The head of the country’s gaming regulatory body is confident the Philippines will eventually have one of the biggest gambling industries in the world, comparing it with the Las Vegas strip’s roughly $6-billion turnover.

Casino models pose at the slot machines at the new Solaire Casino.

HE Philippin e s made its biggest bet in a high-stakes bid to join the world’s elite gaming destinations, with the launch of a $1.2-billion casino on Manila Bay last March 16. Solaire Manila Resorts is the first of four enormous entertainment venues slated to rise over a giant chunk of prime, reclaimed land that industry and government leaders expect will attract millions of cashed-up Asian tourists. “What Solaire brings is an entertainment and gaming experience that doesn’t exist in the Philippines today,” its American chief operating officer, Michael French, told AFP in an interview this week ahead of the opening. “It will be like going to Las Vegas. This raises the scale, the excitement and the... glamour.” Controlled by billionaire Philippine port operator Enrique Ra-

3 more big-ticket casinos

Solaire CEO Michael French gestures as he inspects the casino floor prior to its March 16 opening. zon, Solaire has 300 gaming tables, 1,200 slot machines and seven restaurants. The building also has 500 hotel rooms and 2,000 parking slots. It features glass ceilings filter-

ing abundant tropical sunlight, huge chandeliers, thick red-themed carpets, blown glass wall-to-ceiling panels, water pools and an army of cocktail waitresses in tiny red dresses.

Planet Philippines Vancouver Edition is published twice a month CHOLO INSUA ...................................................................................................... Maria Valencia ...................................................................................................... MARISSA INSUA ...................................................................................................... MEL TOBIAS, Misha Enriquez & Kyla A. Corpuz . ......................................................... DIVINA SANTOS ...................................................................................................... Bert Querido ...................................................................................................... KEN CHOW & MARIA CHOW . ............................................................................................ Noel Corleto ......................................................................................................

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Another wing is being built to add 300 all-suite hotel rooms, 3040 high-end shops and a theatre where French plans to host travelling Broadway shows as well as local and foreign lounge acts.

Meanwhile, preparations are underway for the launch of the three other big-ticket casinos, which all involve major foreign backers. The four will together make up “Entertainment City”, located near Manila’s airport. The Belle Grande -- a joint venture with the Philippines’ richest man, Henry Sy, Australian billionaire James Packer and Macau gaming tycoon Lawrence Ho -- is slated to open next year, with its golden facade already having been built. Japanese gambling magnate Kazuo Okada and Malaysia’s Genting Group are involved in the other two, each in partnership with local Chinese-Filipino tycoons. Both are expected to open between 2015 and 2017. Cristino Naguiat, head of state regulator Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp, told AFP he expected Philippine gaming revenues to double this year to $2 billion because of the Solaire opening.

$10B gambling revenues When all four are open, Entertainment City is expected to boost

PLANET PHILIPPINES is a newsmagazine for overseas Filipinos published and circulated in various cities and countries all over the world. Launched in 2002, the paper carries news features written by professional and experienced writers from Manila covering a wide range of topics – lifestyle, entertainment, celebrities, current affairs, OFW-related issues, travel, sports, politics and business. Each edition of Planet Philippines is managed and run by an independent area publisher under an exclusive licensing arrangement. We pioneered a unique business model that simplifies operations and cuts cost while ensuring high editorial standard. For US$500 we provide the editorial content (stories and photos), design and layout for each issue. The area publisher solicits advertisements and keeps all the advertising revenue. For inquiries on how to become a publisher of Planet Philippines, email us at planetphilippines@gmail.com or visit us at www.planetphilippines.com.

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Solaire Casino boasts state-of-the-art gaming facilities rivaling those in Macau and Las Vegas the country’s annual gaming revenues up to $10 billion, he said. The nation’s existing gambling revenues come from 13 relatively small casinos around the country run by Pagcor, the gaming regulator, and a bigger one in Manila run by Genting and a Filipino tycoon that opened in 2009. While Macau counts $38 billion in annual revenues, Naguiat is confident the Philippines will eventually have one of the biggest gambling industries in the world, comparing it with the Las Vegas strip’s roughly

$6-billion turnover. “We will beat Las Vegas. I’m pretty sure of that,” he said.

Big Asian market Naguiat said the casinos were mainly targetting gamblers from Asia, pointing out that Manila was a mere 3-4 hours away by plane from any point in China, Japan and South Korea, where many of the world’s high rollers live. “Actually it’s a no-brainer. The big market is here in Asia,” he said.

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Naguiat said that to make it easier for the foreign gamblers, a skyway roadlink to Manila airport is due to open in two years that will allow them to avoid the city’s notorious gridlock and reach Entertainment City in just five minutes. The government has further sweetened the offer by taking just 27 percent in taxes off winnings for normal gamblers, compared with Macau’s 40 percent, according to Naguiat. High rollers have it even better, with winnings taxed at just 15 percent.

tainment City as the key to the government’s ambitious bid to attract 10 million tourists a year and create more jobs in a country where a fourth of the workforce is unemployed or underemployed. About 4.6 million tourists visited the country last year, compared with about 14 million for Singapore and 28 million for Macau. He said Entertainment City should easily employ 40,000 Filipinos when all four venues are open. More than 50,000 Filipinos, some of them among nine million working in other countries, applied for 4,500 Solaire jobs last year, according to French.

10 million tourists

About 400 Filipino expatriates were brought back, including Fili-

Naguiat said he saw Enter-

Filipino expats

Another world-class casino, the Manila Bay Resort complex will boast 3 hotels – 2 luxurious and one budget – totalling over 2,000 rooms.

APRIL 1-15, 2013

pino dealers and pit bosses from casinos in Macau and Singapore who were given managerial posts. Others were chefs and hotel staff, including more than 20 from the Emirates Palace of Abu Dhabi, touted as the world’s most opulent hotel. However the casinos are stirring controversy in the mainly Roman Catholic nation, with critics saying the government’s embrace of gambling to solve the country’s financial woes is a dangerous signal. “It gives false hope to people that they can find solutions to their financial problems by gambling,” Catholic priest Rolly Flores, whose Our Lady of Sorrows church lies three kilometres away, told AFP. “Only gambling lords thrive when people lose money by gambling.” (Agence France-Presse) n

APRIL 1-15, 2013

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Philippines Lags Behind in

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Medical Tourism While the country has a huge pool of world-class medical professionals, it does not have appropriate medical tourism destinations. The overall situation has to be improved, laments the head of the Philippine Medical Association. It’s not only about hospital facilities or equipment, it’s also about amenities, he adds.

St. Luke’s Medical Center at the Global City in Taguig City is one of the most modern and luxurious hospitals in the country.

dermatology clinic may not be everyone’s idea of a perfect holiday destination. But a growing number of overseas Filipinos and foreigners these days travel to the Philippines for medical treatment to save on money—combining a visit to the doctor with their tropical island experience. One of them is Gelo (not his real name), a Filipino who migrated to the US and went on a so-called “medical vacation” here to get his acne scars removed.

State-of-theart medical equipment, competent and friendly staff and affordable rates are the Philippines’ advantages over other Asian countries.

“The procedure I had was a Fraxel Laser Treatment, which is used to treat acne scars. It took place on May 2011 and again on April 2012,” he said in an e-mail message to GMA News Online. Gelo said price was major motivation in getting treatment here instead of the US. The procedure Gelo underwent costs $200 (P8,200) here, way below the $400 to $800 (P16,200 to P24,600) he would’ve paid in the US. “For that price I can go on vacation to the Philippines and get the treatment done,” Gelo noted. “I also looked at satisfaction reviews from patients both here and there, and found that they were comparably favorable. “More importantly, that treatment is sometimes performed by nurses, medical assistants, or technicians here [in the US], while it is performed by the actual doctor/ dermatologist there,” he added. An industry in infancy While many like Gelo travel to

the Philippines for medical treatment, the country’s revenue share in the world’s medical tourism remains trifling compared to other emerging markets where services are also nominally inexpensive. The world’s medical tourism industry is projected to rake in $70 billion this year. The joint public-private association Philippine Medical Tourism Program (PMTP) targets to attract $2 billion in revenues by 2015, according to global health management firm Health Core. Two years ago, Southeast Asian neighbor Thailand—arguably a medical tourism hub—earned $2 billion, by attracting 40 percent of tourists seeking medical treatment in Asia, according to data from Thailand’s Bureau of Investments. In an interview with GMA News Online, Philippine Medical Association (PMA) president Modesto Llamas surmised that the reason why the country is not attracting as much as it should is the lack of medical tourism infrastructure. While the country has a huge

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The Philippines is banking on its numerous tourist destinations to attract foreign patients who may want to tour the country after their medical procedures. pool of world-class medical professionals, it does not have appropriate medical tourism destinations, he said by phone. “Overall situation has to be improved. It’s not only about hospital facilities or equipment, it’s also about amenities,” Llamas noted. “Sa hospital ba natin may dormitories where the patient or patient’s family can live while seeking treatment? Is there a decent cafeteria for them?” he said. The Philippines does have a

It’s not only about hospital facilities or equipment, it’s also about amenities. medical tourism road map, which should have addressed these gaps. Drafted in 2011 by the PMTP, the road map sought to increase

PHILIPPINES

medical tourism competitiveness by complying with international healthcare requirements and institutionalizing high level patient safety standards. While the Philippines’ medical tourism program appeared to remain in broad strokes, Thailand’s went as far as modernizing and institutionalizing research and development for Thai made pharmaceuticals. Thailand, likewise, granted fiscal and non-tax incentives for import of medical equipment and active ingredients for medicines. Despite repeated requests, PMTP officials did not grant a request for interview with GMA News Online regarding updates to the road map.

Banking on people Still, the government remains

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bullish on prospects for medical tourism, marketing the country’s health professionals as best in the region. “Nakikita po natin na malakas ang capability natin to position our country as a medical tourism destination,” Benito Bengzon, Tourism Assistant Secretary for international promotions, said in an interview. “We are very competitive. First of all our doctors, nurses, medical staff are highly trained and are among the best in the region,” he added.

APRIL 1-15, 2013

PMA’s Llamas noted, “Our selling point is hospitality, it’s always been that. The support staff, mas mababait at mas magalang.” However, Llamas maintains that more needs to be done in order to fully seize the country’s potential in medical tourism, saying that at the end of the day the Philippines can catch up with its Southeast Asian neighbors. “Pero kailangan ng support from the government and push from the private sector. Efforts have to be sustained,” he added. n

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PHILIPPINES

Gadgets Over ‘Piko’

How Pinoy Children Have Changed others lament.

E see and hear it all the time – adults complaining how children today have become too dependent on gadgets and the Internet, and how most of them do not know how to get their hands dirty and stay under the sun. Some kids even have their own Facebook and Twitter accounts and know “Angry Birds” more than piko or tumbang preso,

Indeed, technology has greatly changed how children play, said Play Pilipinas executive director Sigrid Perez, a former educator and school administrator. Her group, which puts up playgrounds in different parts of the country, wants to bring back outdoor play to children amid the popularity of tablets and smart phones. “We are for pure, unstructured play,” said Perez, adding, “Although video games can teach you a lot of

Traditional Filipino games like luksong tinik are slowly being forgotten due to the popularity of modern gadgets such as smart phones and the Internet.

skills, for us, just giving them the moment to play and be children, that is already a gift to them.” Play Pilipinas recently tied up with the Department of Education and Johnson and Johnson for the “Di Lang Laro ang Laro” (Play Is Not Just Play) campaign, which is aligned with the UNICEF’s Early Childhood Care and Development Program and the World Health Organization’s recommendation of at least 60 minutes of active play daily

We at Play Pilipinas recognize that we cannot do away with technology, and we’re working around and with it, actually. We have to accept the fact that children now have their own gadgets, at least in the middle-income families.

Play Pilipinas puts up playgrounds in different parts of the country to bring back outdoor play to children.

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for a child’s physical, mental and social development. The campaign involves the use of television commercials, print advertising and the Internet in support of the advocacy. At the launch of the “Di Lang Laro ang Laro” campaign, Perez, a mother to eight children, shared her thoughts about how kids today have changed, and how parents can do their part in controlling their exposure to digital devices. Question: What are the differences you’ve noticed between children then (today’s adults) and now? Perez: The world has changed so naturally, children and adults adapt to these changing needs. Just one concrete example is technology. We now have everything in our fingertips. Since you have more access to news and what’s happening around you, there is a growing fear in parents – they do not want their children to go out. We call it “stranger danger” – there’s always the danger of being kidnapped, trafficked, all these things. More and more, parents are becoming more fearful of their children’s safety and security. So they keep their children at home with their gadgets. Plus the fact that populationwise, there are a lot of people within the city. More buildings are being made, so there’s less space for them to play. The environment, the pressure for work and to keep up with the cost of living is always at the back of the heads of parents. All these really change the play habits and attitudes of children over time. Economics is still the driving factor. Little do they know that while they’re planting these seeds

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PHILIPPINES

APRIL 1-15, 2013

Pinoy Workers in BC Reach $1.3M Settlement with Denny’s

Experts advise that parents should control their young children’s exposure to and use of modern gadgets like the computer. – education and safety provided by gadgets – they’re also removing from them that time and space to be children, to be individuals. Question: What is your stand on the use of technology in children’s play? Answer: We (Play Pilipinas) recognize that we cannot do away with technology, and we’re working around and with it, actually. We have to accept the fact that children now have their own gadgets, at least in the middle-income families. There are some good factors to it, such as you learn eye-hand coordination and strategy with those gadgets. But there has to be some limitation because there are certain skills that you are not able to develop that only active play can answer, such as motor skills and sense of balance and coordination. You don’t get that just by tilting your phone or by pressing those little buttons on your gadgets. As with anything, there has to be a sense of moderation and sense of balance. You have to develop your mind just as you have to develop your heart. You have to develop all your other skills. You have to develop your whole self. Question: What is the right age for a child to play with a gadget? Answer: I remember one time, a lady asked me: ‘Is it wrong for me to put my child in front of ‘Baby Einstein’?’ I told her, ‘Nothing can replace human interaction. Yes, while it may provide some stimulus

to your children, the best stimulant is you.’ In fact, there is a global recommendation that for kids ages three and below, the maximum is one hour a day of screen time. That includes the phone, the iPad, and the television. Children should be able to move their muscles. Gadgets as babysitters? It’s quite scary. Question: When it comes to your children, how to do you set/ control their playtime? Answer: In my children, they can only play on Fridays and Saturdays up to Sunday morning. They take turns because they are too many, they’re eight siblings. They manage themselves. Question: Any tips that you can give to parents when it comes to playtime for their children? Answer: You don’t need expensive toys. One of the things we tell the parents is if you come from a structured day, like in school, give them that one moment where they can just be themselves. You can use anything – a pot, a spoon or a fork. You’ll be amazed at what they do. You have those boxes? They can use that and pretend it’s a house. These items have more play value because they’re only limited by their own mind. Some toys are very close-ended – like one would tell you how to pronounce a word, and that’s it. There goes your P5,000. (ABS-CBNnews.com) n

$1.3-million settlement has been reached in a class-action lawsuit brought by a group of 77 Filipino temporary foreign workers against the company that owns Denny’s restaurants in British Columbia. Under the terms of the settlement with Northland Properties Corp., the OFWs will be reimbursed for loss of hours, overtime and airfare, reported Postmedia News. Some workers who were forced to pay employment agencies an average of $6,000 for their jobs will be eligible for compensation. Denny’s will pay the legal fees of the workers and the cost of administering the settlement. As well, Denny’s will pay $80,000 to two charities: Migrante BC, which helps Filipino migrants and immigrants, and an as-yet-undetermined children’s charity. “We’re happy with the settlement,” Charles Gordon, one of the lawyers representing the workers, said. “We’re happy that Denny’s is doing the right thing.” Justice Shelley Fitzpatrick has approved the settlement and will be issuing written reasons in the coming months, Gordon said. The temporary foreign workers filed their claim more than two years ago in B.C. Supreme Court. It was granted certification to proceed almost a year ago. In 2010, one of the Filipinos working for Denny’s, Alfredo Sales, filed a complaint against his employer for failing to pay his airfare and overtime work. Thinking he will be accommodated by Denny’s vice president, Sales was instead fired for “performance issues” seven days after his complaint, according to a report from the news site Theytee. “I had big dreams when I came to Canada. I wanted to work and share my skills. I thought Denny’s would be part of those dreams, but Denny’s has integrity issues,” Sales said. This inspired Herminia Vergara Dominguez and 75 other

Supporters of the OFWs gather outside a Denny’s restaurant in Vancouver to protest the treatment of migrant workers. Denny’s employees to file, along with Sales, a $10-million class action lawsuit against Northland Properties Corp in 2011. Gordon said the settlement is the first ever reached in Canada between temporary foreign workers and an employer under the federal Temporary Foreign Worker program. The program has allowed for foreign workers in a number of fields, ranging from skilled trades and nursing to fast food restaurants and ski hills. “What it means potentially for other foreign workers is that they could act as a group to seek to enforce the terms of any contract they have in Canada,” Gordon said. Gordon said it puts employers on notice that “if they do take advantage of foreign workers, they face legal consequences.” Gordon said many of the 77 workers in the lawsuit are still in BC. They are mainly from the Philippines, but also Mexico and India. Bobby Naicker, Denny’s president, said in a news release that “we have always maintained that our foreign workers would be fully paid for the valuable work they provide, and this settlement accomplishes that objective. “Our foreign worker recruitment program has been reviewed to ensure that the same accounting errors are not repeated in the

future.” Jim Sinclair, president of the B.C. Federation of Labour, said his organization supported the workers in their class-action suit, but added that it was a “disgrace that workers have to go to this extreme to get their rights. It shows that the whole of the temporary foreign worker program is broken.” Sinclair said being able to take an employer to court is not a strategy that works for everyone. He said B.C. has no protection for temporary foreign workers — even though there are more here per capita than any other province. “This is about Denny’s using cheap labour,” he said. “They got caught. “There are cases like this all over the place. You really can’t say there is a shortage of labour — there’s a wage shortage. If you’re good enough to work here, you’re good enough to live here.” The temporary foreign worker program began in 1966 with farm workers and expanded in 1981 to include live-in caregivers. The numbers have increased from 122,800 eight years ago to 190,842 in 2011. BC is home to 24.3 per cent of the total number of temporary foreign workers in Canada, even though B.C.’s share of the national population is only 13 per cent. n

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PHILIPPINES

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LOVI POE: MORE THAN JUST HER FATHER’S DAUGHTER

While she grew up knowing and spending time with her father, the general public wouldn’t meet the young Poe until after FPJ died, when she launched her singing career in 2005. She was one of two children the man everyone called “Da King” admitted to siring out of wedlock.

By cheche v. moral

E barely recognize her, this woman, practically a child, who enters the photographer’s studio, her long, dark, wavy hair still damp framing her makeup-free face. Neither would you, if you’re among us who know Lovi Poe mostly as that sultry underwear model on the Bench billboards. She could still easily pass for 15, the age she entered showbiz. Lovi turned 24 last month. Though she bears little resemblance to her mestiza mother, her likeness to her famous late father, Fernando Poe Jr., is undeniable. “I look like my dad,” she agrees. “But I don’t know where I got my morena complexion. Maybe it’s from swimming. Since I was a kid, I’ve always loved swimming.” Alternately, she also runs to keep fit, but she eats “anything.” Lovi has a passing semblance to another actress, KC Concepcion and a lithe physique that feeds the fantasies of men and is the envy

of many women. Her exotic good looks are a standout in an industry head-over-heels enamored with fair-skinned mestizas. “A lot of people are telling me to get my boobs done,” she says. “I haven’t done anything. I tweeted kanina, it’s called satisfaction. I just love myself. It’s pretty tempting to be able to get things done for free. But no, eh. As long as I’m doing my job well.” In seven short years, Lovi has transitioned from budding singer to critically acclaimed actress. In

‘I realized I’m not my father. We’re different from each other. When I started accepting that, I felt more free.’

2010, she bagged two best actress trophies, from Cinemalaya and Famas, plus two more acting plums in 2012. In the last Metro Manila Film Festival, she was in two of the entries, including Thy Womb, where she starred next to superstar Nora Aunor. Last February, she appeared in The Bride and The Lover, a Joel Lamangan film about marital infidelity, lately so popular a theme in local movies -- and a subject that’s close to home. “I have fond memories of my dad, but I rarely talk about them because I don’t want to be talking too much about my father,” she says. Lovi Poe was born Lourdes Virginia Moran Poe on Feb. 11, 1989, a product of the late action king’s affair with Rowena Moran, a former commercial model and actress. “I knew where I came from,” says the actress. “Everybody knew who my dad was, in grade school and high school.” While she grew up knowing

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Lovi’s exotic goods looks are a standout in an industry headover-heels enamored with fair-skinned mestizas.

Lovi has three tattoos, markings now familiar to anyone who has seen her halfnaked onscreen, and on billboards and magazines. and spending time with her father, the general public wouldn’t meet the young Poe until after FPJ died, when she launched her singing career in 2005. She was one of two children the man everyone called “Da King” admitted to siring out of wedlock, when he ran for president in 2004. “I think when I first got a tattoo, that’s when it all started, when I began to embrace everything,” she says of her transition into sexier roles. “I was 20. It was on the death anniversary of my father. I started with this sweet image. But I felt like I was locked inside a box. A part of me is still like that, but I felt limited.” Lovi has three tattoos, markings now familiar to anyone who has seen her half-naked onscreen, and on billboards and magazines; all are a tribute to her father. “First I was hiding them. ‘This is not what FPJ’s daughter should be,’ that’s what I was thinking the whole time,” she says. Then she adds with a laugh, “But I got my tattoos at my brother’s place, so it’s okay.” The brother she refers to is Ronian Poe, a club DJ and tattoo shop owner, FPJ’s son with former actress Anna Marin. The tattoos were sort of a rite of

‘This image thing, it’s just something that I play with. It’s not something that I’m doing every day.’ passage for the young actress, who before that was constantly worried of what people would think of her actions. She didn’t want to smear FPJ’s good name. But “I realized I’m not my father,” she says now. “We’re different from each other. When I started accepting that, I felt more free.” On her choice to shed her innocent image and embrace mature, sexier roles, Lovi says, “This image thing, it’s just something that I play with. It’s not something that I’m doing every day. I keep pushing myself. It’s something I really enjoy doing, as long as it’s done tastefully.” FPJ never brought his daughter to movie sets. “My mom didn’t want that,” she says. But her dad knew of Lovi’s desire to become a singer. “He wasn’t fond of the idea,” she

recalls. “He didn’t say no, but then he said there’d be a right time. He was protective of me. But I knew that at some point he’d allow me.” Her discomfort is palpable when the subject of FPJ’s wife, Susan Roces, arises. But the young woman doesn’t dodge the bullet. “Once in a while I get to see them,” she says, referring to the veteran actress and her daughter, Grace Poe-Llamanzares, both of whom she met when FPJ died. “They’re very nice people, I get to greet them. It’s something I’m very thankful for. Both of them have always been nice to me.” Lovi, however, never dreamed of Roces’ acceptance. “It’s something I never thought about. I was very secure in the love of my mother, my family, and my friends. I didn’t look for other things or dwell on depressing things.” In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer in early 2012, Roces acknowledged the propriety of her husband’s children. “I respect these children,” she said in the article. “I do not want to discuss them and they know that, so they do the same for me. They try not to use me or their relation to my husband, although they cannot really deny it.” Rowena Moran never married, though she has a younger daughter. “My mom is very private,” says Lovi. “She doesn’t go with me to tapings. She trusts me a lot. She doesn’t watch over me anymore, she’s letting me be.” Moran didn’t want her daughter to enter showbiz. But the mom would later relent to her firstborn’s relentless prodding. “She knows that the more she stops me, the more I’ll do it,” says Lovi. Neither does the mother meddle in Lovi’s relationships. “We had a gap for a while because before, she would disapprove.” This was way before the Ronald Singson episode, Lovi clarifies. Lovi famously dated the former congressman, nearly 21 years her senior, in 2010. The relationship unraveled after Singson was charged with drug possession and was sentenced to 18 months in a Hong Kong prison. She’s dating again, Lovi says, but it will take time before she can commit to another relationship. She may be making a name for herself now, but Lovi knows she can never dissociate herself from the luster of her legendary dad. “I’m fine with it,” says Lovi. “It’s not an issue for me. It’s something I’m actually proud of. He was an amazing father.” (Look Magazine) n

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WILL KRIS RETURN TO HER SHOWS? THE guessing game is on: will Kris Aquino reconsider and fulfill her commitments to her home studio? The management of ABS-CBN is said it is confident that its prized talent will continue to fulfill her commitments to her programs with the Kapamilya network, despite her announcement of her resignation from all her shows. Bong Osorio, Head of ABS-CBN

Integrated Corporate Communications, said the network will compel Kris to finish her existing contracts with ABS-CBN despite her announcement that she was quitting her programs in the wake of the latest controversy between her and her ex-husband, basketball star James Yap. He said network executives will meet with the 42-year-old actress-

Ai Ai and Jed. Kris and sons Josh and Bimby leave for Paris.

LEA: HOMOSEXUALITY IS NOT AN ANOMALY BROADWAY star Lea Salonga weighs in on the sensitive issue of homosexuality, saying “it’s not an anomaly, it’s not a disease nor anything negative.” Lea shared her personal views on the matter when she was asked to comment on the controversy surrounding the column of broadcaster Cristine Bersola-Babao, titled “Being A Gay,” in the Philippine Star last month that was roundly criticized by the gay and lesbian community “I read the article, it’s very difficult for me to read kasi marami akong kaibigang homosekswal, babae o lalake,” she explained. “Nakaksakit din sa akin siyempre na makarinig ng ganung mga opinyon kasi mayroon din akong kapatid na bakla, mayroon akong kaibigan at naging katrabaho din na homosekswal na mga babae at lalake. . .It wasn’t necessarily a rebuttal but this is more of my personal experience, my own understanding. For me the issue of homosexuality is one of humanity— it’s not an anom-

IS AI AI PREGNANT?

aly, it’s not a disease nor anything negative.It’s as much a part of God’s creation as being straight.” She continued: “If I had a child that’s gay, I have to recognize na siyempre you don’t want to have a gay child, the future for that child is very uncertain but you have to embrace everything that that child is kasi biyaya pa rin siya ng Diyos sa iyo. That’s my belief.”

JOHN LLOYD MULLS EARLY RETIREMENT JOHN Lloyd Cruz said he is considering taking an “early retirement” so he could spend more “quality life” with his family and would-be family. During the press conference of his upcoming movie, It Takes A Man and A Woman, John Lloyd said he wants to spend more time with his loved ones – something he could not at the moment because of his hectic schedule. “I’m thinking of early retire-

THE Comedy Concert Queen herself isn’t so sure. But she says it’s possible. “Hanggang ngayon, delayed ako, so maaari,” she said on March 20. “Siguro mga nine days na, kaunti na lang. Sabi ng OB [obstetrician] ko, ‘Let’s wait for one week more. Let’s hope and pray.’” “And ako, I’m still praying hard, nag-a-ask ako ng milagro sa Panginoon, kay Mama Mary, kay Padre Pio…Lahat na sana, kahit isa lang magkaroon kami ng anak ni Jed. Siyempre naman and gagawin namin lahat… kahit isa lang,” added the 48-year-old comedienne. Ai Ai and her live-in partner, Jed Salang, recently had a misunderstanding that forced the actress to fly to New York for a few days to cool off steam. It was there, she said, that made her realize how much they love each other. “Usually ganoon naman, e. Pag mayroon kayong pinag-dadaanan, doon mas nagiging matibay ang relasyon ninyo,” she pointed out. “Sa buhay natin, di naman parati na laging tayo ang tama. Hindi porke’t mas matanda ako kay Jed, ako yung tama. Minsan, mayroon din akong kamalian, minsan din adjustment sa relasyon namin. Siyempre, magkaiba kami ng mundo—opposites attract.” Ai Ai remains non-committal on the possibility of marriage. “Ay, wait lang, hintayin lang natin, malapit na malapit na ‘yan,” she said. “Matagal na kasi siyempre, kailangan emotionally ready kayo pareho. . .Lahat tayo may tamang panahon, in God’s time, sabi nga.”

ment. Gusto kong ma-enjoy ang buhay ko kasama ang magiging pamilya ko. I want to spend more years and quality life with my family and would-be family,” he said. “It’s basically all about achieving quality in life. When you are in this business, talagang medyo toxic. Kung kakayanin na to have an early retirement and enjoy more quality time with my family, with my mom especially, with my love ones,” he added. He said part of this decision

is making better choices when it comes to projects. “Siguro kapag dumating ‘yun, on the side, pili tayong mga projects. Kung mayroon tayong ganoong privilege, ‘yun sana ang magawa ko,” he said. He declined to give a specific timeframe for his retirement plans. “Hindi ko pa masabi kung anong edad. Hindi naman age mo ang magdi-dictate noon. Kapag dumating na siya at naramdaman mo na, baka puwede na. Mahirap magbigay ng edad,” he explained.

host upon her return to the Philippines. Kris and her two children, Josh and Bimby, left for Paris on March 23, leaving a trail of controversy and speculation in the aftermath of her latest feud with James. James had sought a hold departure order (HDO) on the actresshost and their son Bimby, for fear they would be staying abroad for a long time, and he would thus not be able to see his son. James had been issued a temporary protective order (TPO), which bars him from being within 100 meters of Kris and Bimby, following alleged incidents where the star cager supposedly caused “distress” on his 5-year-old son.

JASON APOLOGIZES TO JOHN FORMER “Pinoy Big Brother” housemate Jason Francisco admitted that he hit Banana Split cast member John Prats on March 21 during rehearsals for the comedy show. Jason told a television interviewer that he got angry by John’s and the group’s constant teasing of his former girlfriend Melai Cantiveros, who is also part of the cast of Banana Split.

Jason and Melai. He then appealed to John to understand his situation and forgive him. John is planning to file charges of physical injuries against Jason for assaulting him at the Music Museum in Greenhills, San Juan City. “I was watching the rehearsals when out of nowhere, I felt something hit my face from behind. And then I was punched two more times. When I got up, I saw that it was him (Jason). I wanted to fight back but there were already people restraining me,” John said in a TV interview. John, who was suffering from a swollen left cheek, immediately reported the incident at the San Juan Police Station.

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CELEBRITYFILES

NORA, EDDIE BAG TOP AWARDS AT ASIAN FILMFEST

NORA Aunor and Eddie Garcia won Best Actress and Best Actor, respectively, at the 7th Asian Film Awards, dubbed as the “Asian Oscars”, in Hong Kong on March 18. Nora was cited for her performance in the acclaimed movie by Brillante Mendoza, Thy Womb. Last November, Nora also won Best Actress for Thy Womb at the 6th Asia Pacific Screen Awards in Australia. Eddie won the Best Actor award for his portrayal of an elderly gay man in Jun Lana‘s Bwakaw, the country’s official entry to the Oscars.

LUCY CAN STILL RUN FOR CONGRESS LUCY Torres-Gomez can still run for the fourth congressional seat of Leyte even if she was unseated by the Supreme Court on a ruling that her substitution as a candidate in place of her husband, Richard Gomez, in the 2010 elections was invalid. Commission on Elections Chairman Sixto Brillantes Jr., explained that Lucy is not officially unseated (and disqualified to run) until the decision is final and executory. “She is not disqualified, the disqualification was the substitution. The one disqualified there was her husband, and she merely subbed for him.” Lucy was disqualified on the basis of residence, not technically disqualification but more because of the cancellation of the CoC (Certificate of Candidacy) (of the husband), Brillantes said. The Supreme Court ruled that her sub-

stitution as a candidate in place of her husband in the 2010 elections was invalid. But since there was a motion for reconsideration from the congresswoman’s camp, “you cannot implement it,” Brillantes explained. Lucy is running for reelection while Richard is eyeing the mayoralty of Ormoc City in the coming May elections.

Remit to Metrobank Account Remit to World Cash Card Cash Pick-Up Anywhere *

* Metrobank Branches | M.Lhuillier | Cebuana Lhuillier | Globe GCash via Globe Business Centers and Villarica Pawnshops | LBC Maaari ring pumunta o tumawag sa mga sumusunod naming agents: Mang Isko Filipino Store 4959 Kingsway Burnaby (Near London Drugs in Kingsway, Burnaby) Tel. No. 1(604) 436-4529

Manila Barbeque New West. 628 12th St. New Westminster (Between 7th Ave. and Nanaimo) Tel. No. 1(604) 777-0770

Jun Delivery 1940 Bay St., Nanaimo BC Tel.No.: 1 (250) 585-3472 Beatriz Boutique 188 E.41st Ave. cor Main St. Vancouver Tel.No.: 1 (604) 323-9030

Fiesta Filipino Grocery 151-153 East 3rd Street North Vancouver BC (Near Lonsdale Avenue) Tel.No.: 1 (604) 983-9111

LadyMarc Filipino Store 10200 152nd Avenue, Surrey (Near Guildford Mall) Tel.No.: 1 (778) 395-0078

Pinoy Supermarket Unit 50-10330 152 St., Surrey Tel.No.: 1 (778) 395-1139

Bayanihan Pinoy Food Mart Windsor Park Shop 2011 12153 Harris Road, Pitt Meadows 2552 Windsor Road, Victoria BC Tel.No.: 1 (604) 465-0048 Tel.No.: 1 (250) 592-4475

Tatak Pinoy Filipino Store 5032 Joyce Street Vancouver (Near Joyce - Skytrain Station) Tel.No.: 1 (604) 568-1009

Real Liquidation Store 3287 Kingsway, Vancouver (Near Joyce St., besides CIBC) Tel.No.: 1 (604) 433-1484

Filipino Mart 2008 Douglas St. Victoria BC Tel.No.: 1 (250) 388-5336

Cebu De Oro Services 20-1040 Legacy Way Whistler BC Tel.No.: 1 (604) 962-8425

Nanay Ileng 8-3490 Kingsway St. Vancouver Tel.No.: 1 (604) 317-7747

88th Seasons Mart Ltd. 11955 88 Ave. Delta BC (Near Lordco Auto Parts) Tel.No.: 1(604) 590-2636

Twin Peaks Pinoy Mart Ltd. 463A East Columbia St., New Westminster (Near Royal Columbian Hospital) Tel.No.: 1 (604) 517-6658

Chinoy’s Supermart 120-1201 Ewen Ave. New Westminster (Queensborrough) Tel.No.: 1 (778) 397-7200

VANCOUVER OFFICE 4292 Fraser Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V5V 4G2 Tel. No. : 1 (604) 874-3373 | Fax . No.: 1(604) 874-3374 Toll Free: 1-866-720-3373

E-mail Address: vancouver@metroremittance.ca

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Vic Sotto topbills new GMA Pinoy TV family sitcom Vampire ang Daddy Ko

ilipinos abroad can now see more of ace comedian and TV host Vic Sotto as he returns to doing family sitcoms via Vampire Ang Daddy Ko, premiering on Saturday, March 16 on GMA Pinoy TV.

This original family sitcom produced by GMA Network and MZet Productions also stars Oyo Sotto, Glaiza De Castro, Bea Binene, Derrick Monasterio, Jackie Lou Blanco and Ms. Pilita Corales. Completing the star-studded cast are Jimmy Santos, Ryzza Mae Dizon, Anjo Yllana, Jin Ri Park, Jinky Oda, and Sef Cadayona. Vampire ang Daddy Ko is a family sitcom written along the lines Okay Ka, Fairy Ko (OKFK). OKFK established its own mythology and its own set of rules. For instance, despite her powers to appear and disappear at will and erase the memory of others, Ina Magenta could not bring back the dead from the living. She was powerful, but she believed in God. Also, OKFK was a family show before anything else. It imparted wholesome family values without departing from being a situation-comedy. OKFK was a fight between good and evil but it did not aim to frighten, so that it could tap both young and old audiences. Vampire ang Daddy Ko seeks to accomplish all that and more, using a

faster pace of storytelling and modern post-production editing techniques. Not only will Vampire ang Daddy Ko remind Okay Ka, Fairy Ko fans of the same enchanting feeling that this popular show used to bring, it will also introduce young Filipinos abroad to this television format identified first and foremost with OKFK. The story revolves around a family where the head is a vampire, and where love is the only thing that makes them survive everybody’s suspicion and their own paranoia. But more importantly, the story focuses on the love of a son for his father and vice-versa. Vlad (Oyo) is a semi-retired vampire and the head of the family. He’s been making do with animal blood since he married a human, Sonya (Jackie Lou / Pilita). It is his great love for Sonya that made him want to reform. Sonya, in turn, has promised to give him fine and outstanding children, and she’s given him two sons, Vad and Victor (Vic). Unlike his older brother, Victor is not a vampire. He has issues with his father.

He knows his father is a vampire who, from time to time, still consorts with active vampires. Vic feels his father doesn’t love him as much as he does his missing older son, Vad. Vlad continues to tempt Victor with pig’s blood, measures his cuspids to see if they’ve grown into fangs, and in his presence keeps on asking his wife Sonya if it’s possible for them to have picked up the wrong baby in the hospital nursery. Will the love between father and son outweigh their differences? Written and directed by Ms. Bibeth Orteza, find out how Vlad and Sonya, together with the merry mix of characters of Small and Big, Bibo, Jinri, Omma, Stefani, Derry, Bebe, and Vavavoom will make Victor’s life a lot more interesting and exciting. Don’t miss Vampire ang Daddy Ko as it premieres on March 16 and will air every Saturday on GMA’s flagship international channel, GMA Pinoy TV. For the complete programming grid and details on how to subscribe, visit www.gmanetwork.com/international or like the official GMA Pinoy TV facebook page www.facebook.com/GMAPinoyTV to get the latest updates on your favourite Kapuso shows and stars. n

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vent her former husband from getting near her and their five-year-old son, Bimby, alleging that the cage star had attempted to force himself on her, an incident supposedly witnessed by their son who was so traumatized, she said, that he hates his father now. James denied the accusation and surmised that Kris’s move was prompted by his refusal to agree to her desire to adopt Bimby and carry the surname Aquino instead of Yap. Bimby is considered an illegitimate child because his parents’ marriage was annulled. The drama went into high gear when Kris later announced she was quitting all her shows (a daily talk show, a nightly soap, and a weekly talent search, all on ABS-CBN) to focus on being a full-time mother to Bimby who, she claims, has been so affected by the controversy.

Kris sheds tears as she appears on TV Patrol.

Made-for-TV drama

CELEBRITY FAMILY FEUD: E C E N T LY the whole nation was riveted to the real-life telenovelas of two celebrity couples. The two separate incidents, spiced with venomous accusations, bitter words and damaging revelations, were made more interesting and tantalizing because those involved were high profile personalities. Moreover, the conflicts between the characters, while revolving around their families, were laden with the usual plots that dominate the nightly teleseryes – an estranged couple fighting over their child, a daughter forsaking her parents for her lover. They could have been taken straight out of the boob tube except that they were for real. (Well, we will grant that they could have been staged or scripted for whatever juice the people involved could wring out of the controversy.) There are two sets of characters in these unfolding dramas. The first are Kris Aquino, the presidential

SHE SAID, HE SAID There are two sets of characters in these unfolding dramas. The first are Kris Aquino, the presidential kid sister dubbed the Queen of All Media, and her ex-husband, professional basketball player James Yap. The second pits actress Heart Evangelista and her boyfriend, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, against the actress’ parents, Rey and Cecile Ongpauco.

kid sister dubbed the Queen of All Media, and her ex-husband, professional basketball player James Yap. The second pits actress Heart Evangelista and her boyfriend, Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero, against the actress’ parents, Rey and Cecile Ongpauco.

Kris-James tug-of-war The latest chapter in the Kris-James tug-of-war was ignited by the petition of Kris to pre-

Here are portions of Kris’ narration in her interview on TV Patrol: “I’m giving up my shows. Hindi kosinasabi ‘yan just so that I can say na I’m the one making the bigger sacrifice. Tinatalikurankoangmundonakinilalakonabumuhaysa akin dahilhigitdoonsakarerako, mas mahalkoanganakko… “Paglakinganakko, gusto komalamanniyanaibinigaykoanglahat. Dahilnoongnabubuhayang mommy namin, binigayniyaanglahat para saamin. So ibinibigaykoanglahat para saanakko. It’s not between James and me and who is telling the

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Mrs. Ongpauco: Leave my daughter alone.

‘She (Heart) is easily swayed by people who prey on her insecurities and lack of confidence.’ Chiz and Heart: You and me against the world. truth. It’s about how much I love my son. Tama namanangsinabingmgataonakawawanasiBimby so kailangangawinkoito para sakanya,”

You and me against the world

On March 19 Mr. and Mrs. Ongpauco in a press conference assailed the character and motive of Senator Escudero, accusing him of manipulating their daughter to turn her back on them. Cecile Ongpauco, who did most of the talking,

called Chiz “arrogant”, “disrespectful”, and “an alcoholic.” She claimed that Heart has a “needy personality” who always wanted to be loved and possessed, a trait, she said, that Chiz exploited. At 28, the mother said, Heart could still not make mature decisions, and the lawmaker was not the right person to provide her proper guidance. The parental lament is reminiscent of their objection to Heart’s two previous romances – with actor Jericho Rosales and Brazilian model Dan-

iel Matsunaga – which the actress had forsaken upon her parents’ intercession. Chiz chose to ignore the charges against his character, insisting that he was caught in the middle in the quarrel between Heart and her parents. His girlfriend, he said, is old enough to decide what to do with her life.

Unacceptable relationship

In an interview with the Philippine Daily Inquirer, Mrs. Ongpauco

said Heart had left her condo after their quarrel and expressed grave concern for her daughter, whom she said was “still young and innocent, overprotected as a child.” Heart, she said, “does not have a mature mind and still thinks like a young girl. . . she is easily swayed by people who prey on her insecurities and lack of confidence.” Ongpauco cited her family’s reasons for finding Escudero’s relationship with Heart “unacceptable.” Top of the list was Escudero’s inability to give Heart a church wedding. The senator’s first marriage—to singer Christine

Flores—was annulled by the court last year. She also accused the senator of having a personality problem: “He projects himself as a wholesome candidate, but we know better.” She said Escudero had “seduced” her daughter into thinking he would become the President by 2016. “And then she [would] be ‘first lady.’ Clearly, Ongpauco pointed out, Escudero was an “opportunist.” He had “virtually moved into [Heart’s] condo unit,” the angry mom said, “using her Mercedes Benz at will.” In a text message to the Inquirer, the senator said in Filipino: “It is enough to say at this time, that, even though I am slightly involved, as much as possible, I don’t want to meddle in the misunderstandings between parents and their daughter … I am not part of show biz. I don’t combine work with my personal life and I don’t allow anything personal to affect my job.” n

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By cherry joy veniles

OT every Filipino who leaves the country is an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) estimates that, as of 2011, 10.44 million Philippine-born Filipinos are residing or working overseas. But the aggregate from data of the CFO, Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) and the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), shows permanent migrants exceed, by a small but significant margin, OFWs. In 2011, permanent migrants numbering 4.86 million accounted for 47 percent of Filipinos abroad. Temporary migrants, including OFWs, numbered 4.51 million or 43 percent. The stock estimate placed irregular migrants at 1.07 million or 10 percent. Permanent migrants include immigrants, dual citizenship holders or legal permanent residents abroad, whose stay does not depend on work contracts. Temporary migrants are those working abroad and are expected to return to the Philippines at the end of their contracts. Although most temporary migrants are OFWs, some of them are students, trainees, entrepreneurs, businessmen and their dependents who are overseas for at least six months. The POEA and Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) regulate the recruitment of OFWs and provide necessary welfare support to returning workers, including victims of recruitment violations and work-related accidents and others in need of emergency relief assistance.

Irregular migrants Filipinos who are not properly documented, without valid residence or work permits, or are overstaying in a foreign country—known as TnTs (tago nang tago)—are irregular migrants. Overseas Filipinos remitted $21.6 billion last year, according to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, and are a constant source of income for the Philippines. The CFO stock estimate provides a good snapshot of the number of Filipinos overseas at any giv-

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Outnumber OFW With countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and most of Europe promoting family reunification, the number of non-OFWs leaving the country is expected to increase over time.

Vancouver Edition

Top destinations The top 10 destination countries of Filipinos are the US (33 percent), Saudi Arabia (15 percent), Canada (8 percent), United Arab Emirates (7 percent), Malaysia (5 percent), Australia (4 percent), Qatar (3 percent), Japan (2 percent), United Kingdom (2 percent) and Kuwait (2 percent). An increasing number of OFWs from the Middle East are applying for permanent skilled worker visas in countries such as Canada and Australia. Japan’s policy to issue visas to Nikkei-jins and their families has contributed to the rising number of Filipinos in the country despite the ban on the deployment of entertainers since 2005. Nikkei-jin refers to Japanese emigrants and their descendants who have established families and communities in host countries such as the Philippines. Irregular migrants could be found mainly in the US, Malaysia and Singapore. The large increase in their number in 2011 was due primarily to the 124 percent increase in irregular migrants in Malaysia (200,000 in 2010 to 447,590 in 2011) and the 67 percent increase in the US (156,000 in 2010 to 260,000 in 2011).

Calamities, upheavals

en time, taking into consideration migrant flows. It also clearly shows that, although the Philippines is internationally recognized for its vast and diverse human resources, providing more than 200 countries and territories with Filipino skills and talents, it has gone be-

Filipinos in Vancouver celebrate Philippine Independence Day. OFWs from the Middle East return home to escape upheaval in the region. yond supplying labor. Many Filipinos leave for reasons other than work. They range from marriage to family reunification, from educational and business opportunities to professional advancement. Permanent residents and dual citizens can petition relatives in the Philippines. And, with countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia and most of Europe, promoting family reunification, the number of non-OFWs leaving the country is expected to increase over time. In countries such as Singapore and Saudi Arabia, skilled migrant workers may bring along family members as part of a company’s remuneration package.

The number of Filipinos in Japan decreased by 69,476 (24 percent) mainly because of the natural calamities (earthquake and tsunami) in March 2011. There was a 90percent decrease in the number of Filipinos in Libya, from 27,349 to 2,724, and a 79-percent decrease of temporary migrants in Syria, from 13,869 to 2,890, because of recent upheavals. Understanding the stock estimate of overseas Filipinos will help the government and the private sector choose where to focus their attention. For instance, is the DFA justified in its choice of which 11 foreign consulates to close? Can the government bring home all OFWs in case of another unrest in Algeria? Or, if the European economic crisis continues, how many Filipinos and their families would be affected? The numbers are also important for service providers such as remittance companies and banks and even local governments, which will have to plan for the return of OFWs. (The author is the outgoing head of the Policy Planning and Research Division of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas.) n

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Manila Survival Guide

APRIL 1-15, 2013

As much as the Philippines is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, it still is a Third World country with its own set of charms and nuances, and nowhere are they more prevalent than in the capital.

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Manila is not only a shopping paradise, it is also a food haven. Eateries of all kinds offer a variety of food to adventurous and fun-loving guests.

By niki yarte

NYONE who has ever gone around the Philippines believes that to really experience the country, one has to get out of Manila. Yet, it is perfectly understandable that before exploring the caves, mountains, and beaches of the islands or before mingling with indigenous cultures and exotic wildlife, visitors must familiarize themselves with the capital. So, for travelers and balikbayans, we have a compiled this handy survival guide for navigating Metro Manila. 1. Where to Stay? First up is a quick lesson in geography: The City of Manila is only one of more than a dozen cities comprising the greater Metro Manila area also known as the National Capital Region. This information comes in handy especially when searching for places to say at. Often, “googling” “Manila hotels” or “Manila inns” mostly turn up places within Ermita or Malate. Both districts belong to the City of Manila and are only a few minutes away from historical tourist spots like the Malacañang Palace, the walled city of Intramuros, and Rizal Park, to name a few. Because of their importance to urban tourism, both districts are dotted with establishments to benefit travelers, particularly money changers. These shops generally offer better exchange rates than the airport, banks or even the malls, but they are also located in densely populated areas, so security becomes an issue. Moreover, these districts are also pretty limiting for tourists who in-

tend to explore other sites and cities. As an alternative, there are also competitively priced hotels and inns in more central locations like Greenhills in San Juan City, Ortigas Center in Pasig City, Libis in Quezon City, or anywhere in Makati City. These areas are generally within walking distance of an SM supermall - the biggest shopping mall chain, which also offers money exchange services in their department stores. Their exchange rates are not as favorable but they are convenient and transactions are generally more secure. Other malls also carry tenants like Sanry’s and Czarina’s that offer better money exchange rates than the ones offered by SM malls but not as great as the independent ones. 2. How to Get There? For visitors who do not have arrangements for airport pickups, there are taxi cabs available that would take them to their hotel or lodging of choice. However, they must keep in mind that while $50 might be a reasonable fare, especially for tourists who are used to North American

A visit to Manila is never complete without taking the ubiquitous jeepney or the old reliable calesa. rates, traveling to and from anywhere in Metro Manila should only cost $10 at the most. Travelers are advised to take taxicabs that are authorized by the Manila International Airport Authority to operate in any of the three NAIA terminals. There are two types – one is the metered taxi (P70 or about $1.75 flag down rate with an additional P4 for every kilometer thereafter); the other charges a fixed rate depending on the destination. An airport personnel writes down the taxi’s name and license plate and gives a copy to the passenger so the driver can be traced in case of any complaint later on. Additionally, travelers are advised to be more discriminate in

their choice of cabs as some will extort an additional amount for tourists. Travelers are advised to refuse these operations and are encouraged to patronize branded cabs like MGE, Basic, and Davis. A general rule of thumb is to carry bills smaller than P500 when paying for cabs as drivers sometimes will not have change for bigger bills. Aside from cabs, travelers may also opt to use the city’s many modes of public transportation, including interconnected light railway systems, tricycles, and endemic jeeps. The railways stop at some very important locations and can be crowded at times. Buses and jeeps are better ridden with a trusted companion who has a working knowledge of the city.

Shopping in Divisoria is a unique experience. But one must be very wary of pickpockets and petty thieves lurking around.

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3. What to Do? Metro Manila has become a mecca for shopping and food. Bargain shops and eateries abound at almost every corner along with familiar faces like McDonald’s and 7-Eleven. Additionally, every stop at the Metro Rail Transit system traversing the main road EDSA is marked by a mall or shopping center. A basic shopping tip for travelers is to bring fewer bags as much as possible. For one thing, every mall requires mandatory bag checks that would offend anyone with privacy issues. For another, someone carrying less to no bags is less of a target for theft. However, with the recent campaigns to reduce the use of disposable plastic bags that are often associated with extreme flooding in the city, shoppers are now encouraged to bring their own reusable shopping bags. Most department stores and groceries charge extra for plastic bags but also sell reusable shopping bags at less than P40 ($1), which can be used in other malls or even thrift shops. Speaking of which, bargain centers like Greenhills or Divisoria do not accept credit cards, so shoppers are expected to carry cash in small denominations. When it comes to food, it pays to be adventurous, especially with a cuisine as diverse as those served by Filipinos. Street food like fish ball and balut are common cheap thrills, but they are adventures for a reason. Those who are not as gutsy but do not wish to miss out on the gastronomic experience can check out the food stalls at organized events like the Banchetto food fiesta (www. banchettomanila.com) and Mercato markets (www.facebook.com/ mercatocentrale). These almost daily events offer the same street fare plus other exotic delicacies in a relaxed environment. Similarly, there are restaurants in bohemian spots like Cubao Expo in Quezon City, the Collective in Makati City, and the Malate district in the City of Manila. These places offer a variety of native and global cuisine in environments that are uniquely Manila. And, yes, the food is good! As much as the Philippines is one of the top tourist destinations in the world, it still is a Third World country with its own set of charms and nuances, and nowhere are they more prevalent than in the capital. Learning a bit of its ins and outs can mean the difference between experiencing the city as a mere gateway to the islands or an adventure all its own. n

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PHILIPPINES

APRIL 1-15, 2013

BEAUTIFUL P

By gael hilotin

SLANDS are possibly made for romance. The mere mention of destinations for honeymoon or anniversary conjures images of tropical island clichés. Lucky you because in an archipelago made up of 7,107 islands, your options are boundless! Whether you are seeking for a luxurious romantic escape or low-key vacation, you will most likely find it in the Philippines. Boracay is passé; surprise your other half with a new yet equally enchanting destination. I’ve picked some of the country’s lovely islands devoid of mass tourism to help you plan your romance-filled holiday: Siquijor – The mystic island of fire exudes with dramatic shoreline. For a plush romantic break, book at the seductive Kawayan Holiday Resort and marvel at the scenic fusion of azure and emerald green sea dappled with rock formations. Siquijor also abounds with mid-range waterfront resorts, try the laidback Coco Grove and laze on its long stretch of powdery white beach. For couples on a budget, don’t fret because Lorna’s End of the World has captivating beachfront rooms plus you can go boating in its cerulean waters for free. Relax at the resort, bask in the azure beaches, go diving or venture into more natural attractions that this enchanting island offers. Bucas Grande Island (Surigao del Norte) - Also called Sohoton Cove National Park, this chilledout island deserves to be on your romantic getaway bucket list for many reasons! Pamper yourselves in a tranquil sanctuary while being embraced by emerald lagoons draped by limestone karts, stingless sea jellies, majestic caves and powdery white sand beaches. The luxurious air-conditioned cottages on stilts of Club Tara Resort are equipped with Jacuzzi and boasts of lovely lanais that looks out to the emerald green sea. But if staying here is way out

On Bucas Grande Island pamper yourselves in a tranquil sanctuary while being embraced by emerald lagoons draped by limestone karts, stingless sea jellies, majestic caves and powdery white sand beaches.

Best Off-the-Radar Islands for Couples Fall in love with Apo Reef’s magical array of rainbow-hued fishes, corals, turtles and other marine life. of your budget, the island also offers budget accommodations like SIFAI Cottage, Cinnamon Island Cottage and Tiktikan Lake Cottage, all managed by cooperatives. Apulit Island (Taytay, Palawan) – Despite its gorgeous topography, this neighboring town of El Nido rarely sees tourists. Apulit Island creates an idyllic setting for all things love, that is, if you don’t mind splurging. The star of this stunning beauty is Apulit Island Resort which houses doting water cottages standing on emerald green lagoon set against a limestone cliff. Plunge into the placid waters bursting with kaleidoscopic marine life or take a refreshing dip at the pool. For low-key getaway, seek respite in the unassuming Flower Island Resort magnificently set on a pristine environment lapped by cerulean

Laid-back and sultry, Malapascua island known for its excellent diving spot off the northern coast of Cebu, has long caught the hearts of foreign tourists because of its excellent diving spot. Yet surprisingly, it has managed to maintain its tranquility. waters and kaleidoscopic marine life. Scale up the peak for a scenic view of the azure sea and its surrounding. The modest Dilis Beach Resort on the other hand proudly sits on a garden fronting a white

sand beach. Apo Reef (Occidental Mindoro) – While most visitors come here to dive, it also beckons adventurous couples looking to laze on a vast

Charter a boat and spoil your other half with stunning beaches and scenery around Malapascua island.

stretch of secluded beach blissfully untainted by commercialism. This protected area under the tentative list of the UNESCO World Heritage is the second largest adjoining coral reef in the world. It has three islands, the largest being Apo Island which is an impeccable camping spot. Fall in love with its magical array of rainbow-hued fishes, corals, turtles and other marine life. Spend the day together walking leisurely around the interesting trails in the island will lead you to a mangrove boardwalk where you can go cruising in a small lagoon. Climb up the white lighthouse and admire the surreal view of the turquoise sea and the majestic mangroves forest. Cuddle up by the shore while watching the spectacular sunset. Manjuyod Sandbar (Negros Oriental) – Whisk your partner away to a postcard-perfect island that emerges when the tide is low. The three cottages on stilt in the middle of the paradisaical sea may be devoid of luxury trappings but it is an impeccable setting if you want to share intimate moments with your other half. Make your dreamy escape more dramatic by indulging on a thrilling dolphin watching activity in Bais. Malapascua (Cebu) - Laid-back and sultry, this gorgeous island known for its excellent diving spot off the northern coast of Cebu, has long caught the hearts of foreign tourists because of its excellent diving spot. Yet surprisingly, it has managed to maintain its tranquility. Charter a boat and spoil your other half with stunning beaches and scenery around the island. At dusk, laze around by the shores while sipping on cocktails and indulging on the scenery. And when the night falls, the island is lit by blue moonlight as you feast on seafood dinner while listening to the waves gently crashing on the shore. (Yahoo! News Philippines) n

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APRIL 1-15, 2013

PHILIPPINES

President Aquino with Filipino-Chinese businessmen.

PNOY TO CHINOY BUSINESSMEN: PAY RIGHT TAXES P

RESIDENT Benigno Aquino III has called on Filipino-Chinese businessmen to pay and file their taxes correctly, vowing such transgressions would not “disappear into a black hole,” unlike in past administrations.

“I hope that you will allow me to bring up a sensitive topic... In fact, this came from a report from Commissioner Kim Henares that was a bit unnerving,” the President noted, referring to the Bureau of Internal Revenue chief. “Based on your own 2011-2013 directory, your federation includes 207 firms and organizations as members. Only 105 of these have a Tax Identification Number. Of these 105 firms, only 54 filed tax returns,” Aquino said during the 29th biennial convention of the Federation of Filipino Chinese Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FFCCCII) in Pasay City. “To make matters worse, 38 firms and organizations actually filed returns with zero tax due. This means that only 16 out of the 207—or only around eight percent—of your member-organizations paid taxes,” Aquino added, noting that some companies even paid “less than a thousand pesos in total taxes. “Of those who filed and paid income taxes, a lot of you paid less

than P100,000. There were some who paid less than P1,000 in taxes,” Aquino said. BIR data showed that only 424 of 552 individual members of the FFCCCII have Tax Identification Numbers or TINs. Of the 424, only 185 or 44 percent filed tax returns for the past year, the President noted. “Of those that filed tax returns, 14 filed returns with zero tax due. What this means is 354 out of 552 members—or 64 percent of you—did not pay taxes for the same reasons: no TIN, no tax due, or nothing filed at all,” Aquino added, saying he was surprised that businesses with glowing portfolios have not paid what they should have. “I was shocked when I learned this, because that would mean that you are making even less than what I receive every month,” Aquino said, noting companies’ that do not comply with tax laws could be worrisome to their investors. “Stockholders of your companies must be surprised by this as well. In fact, they would probably be even

more disturbed than I am right now. After all, is it not true that earnings should imply a corresponding tax? After hearing of this strange news, would they not be worried about their investment?” Aquino said. “Today, I am appealing to you to correct the situation and fulfill your civic duty. There is still time. After April 15, you will have to deal with Commissioner Kim Henares herself—with Justice Secretary Leila de Lima at her back. The President also assured the businessmen that their taxes will work for them and for the Filipino people, instead of being pocketed by some corrupt officials. Gone are the days when your taxes disappeared into the pockets of an unscrupulous few, or when bending the rules may have been the only way for otherwise honest companies to keep operating. Things have changed,” Aquino said, touting his administration’s thrust on transparency and accountability. Aquino called on the Chinoy businessmen to go beyond corporate responsibility and fulfill their roles as law abiding citizens by filing and paying their taxes correctly and on time, saying that, more than anything, this will benefit Filipinos in need. n

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AQUINO COOL TO EMERGENCY POWER DECLARATION

PRESIDENT Aquino sounded cool to the idea of using emergency powers to deal with brownouts in Mindanao, but he assured the public that there would be an adequate power supply on Election Day on May 13. “Maybe we should first define what kind of emergency powers needs to be done,” the President told reporters in Naga City in an interview aired over government-run dzRB. He was responding to the call of the Zamboanga Chamber of Commerce Industry Foundation for him to use his emergency powers to address the problem. Aquino acknowledged though that he could invoke the Electric Power Industry Reform Act of 2001 to declare a state of emergency, but this must be authorized by Congress. Otherwise, there was a sufficient supply of water in the region’s hydropower plants to ensure an adequate electricity “especially for Election Day,” he said. The President said Energy Secretary Jericho Petilla was due to present an “immediate solution,” such as purchasing or renting diesel-powered plants, to the “crisis” in Mindanao. “We’ve found a way to ensure there won’t be a failure of election for lack of power,” he added. For about a month now, Misamis Occidental, LanaodelNorte and Iligan City have been hit by two rounds of brownouts, with each round lasting from two to six hours. Misamis Occidental 2 Electric Cooperative Inc. said the outages were caused by power supply deficiencies from the Agus and Pulangi hydroelectricity generation plants, which are operated by state-owned National Power Corp. (Napocor).

Officials, however, said that the long brownouts in Mindanao were an offshoot of the state-owned electricity generator’s action to conserve power for the midterm elections. Napocor and Power Sector Assets and Liabilities Management Corp. have been mandated by the Commission on Elections to ensure an adequate supply of power for the elections, its officials said. Mindanao currently has a shortfall of 300 MW due to the repair of hydropower facilities in Bukidnon and Lanao and other factors, according to the energy department. As part of the “immediate solution,” the government was considering purchasing diesel-powered plants and had been assured of authorization from Congress, Aquino said. “Once that is done, that will be the stop-gap measure. We will either buy or rent from those that have the generating capacity. That will reduce brownouts there,” he said. “Once the private power plants come on line by 2014, we will no longer need these expensive diesel power plants. We will bring them to missionary areas.” In Davao City, LuwalhatiAntonino, chairman of the Mindanao Development Authority (Minda), said that to ease the power shortage at least three diesel and bunker fuel-fed generators would be commissioned next month as repairs on hydropower facilities continued. The energy department, however, said even if the hydropower facilities resumed normal operations, Mindanao would still suffer a power shortage because existing plants could produce up to only 1,181 MW while peak demand was expected to hit 1,484 MW this year. n

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APRIL 1-15, 2013

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HIGH COURT HALTS ENFORCEMENT OF RH LAW FREED PINOY PEACEKEEPERS WON’T BE HOME SOON

THE Supreme Court (SC) temporarily stopped on March 9 the implementation of the Reproductive Health (RH) law, which was set to take effect on Easter Sunday, March 31. The RH or Responsible Parenthood Law (Republic Act 10354), which provides state funding for contraceptives, was passed by lawmakers late last year despite the Church’s opposition, but petitioners questioned its legality on several grounds, saying it offends religious beliefs and fosters abortion, which remains illegal in the country. Voting 15-5 in favor of 10 separate petitions, the SC justices issued a status quo ante (SQA) order, which has the same effect of stopping an assailed ruling but is issued to preserve the status before the filing of a petition, said SC Public Information Office chief Theodore Te. The 10 justices who voted for the issuance of the SQA were Associate Justices Presbitero Velasco Jr., Teresita Leonardo De Castro, Arturo Brion, Diosdado Peralta, Lucas Bersamin, Roberto Abad, Martin Villarama Jr., Jose Perez, Jose Mendoza and Bienvenido Reyes. Chief Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno joined Senior Associate Justice An-

tonio Carpio and Justices Mariano del Castillo, Estela PerlasBernabe, and MarvicLeonen in the minority. Te said the law’s implementation has been stopped until June 18, when both the government and 10 petitioners who questioned the law’s constitutionality will argue their cases before the court. Last January, senatorial candidate RisaHontiveros asked the Court to uphold the law’s legality as she debunked claims that contraceptives, which will be distributed for free to poor women, are abortifacients. The Catholic leaders also consid-

er the law an attack on the Church’s core values and said it promotes promiscuity and destroys life. The government said, however, that it helps the poor manage the number of children they have and provides for maternal health care. Nearly half of all pregnancies in the Philippines are unwanted, according to the UN Population Fund, and a third of those end up aborted in backalley clinics. The Philippines has a population of 94 million and one of Asia’s highest birth rates. Malacañangexpressed confidence

UP PRESIDENT VOWS REFORM AS COED IS BURIED HOURS before the burial of Kristel Tejada, the freshman who took her own life allegedly because she could not afford to pay tuition, the University of the Philippines on March 23vowed to work on reforms that would address the issues brought out by the tragedy. UP president Alfredo Pascual promised to make sure qualified students will not be denied education due to financial reasons, even as he offered his “deepest condolences” to Tejada’s family. “Let us now look forward and turn our grief into a stronger resolve to address the concerns brought out by this tragedy. With all UP stakeholders collectively working towards reform, I am confident we can soon truly say that no qualified student is denied education in UP because of financial reasons. Soon we can claim that UP, the country’s national university, has indeed become the University of the People,” he said in a statement. “The past few days have not been easy for us. The news of Kristel’s untimely demise has divided us and this has saddened us more,” he added. Tejada took her own life last March 15, supposedly because she had been asked to file a leave of absence for her failure to pay tuition. Her death sparked outrage from various groups. Her death also prompted the UP to lift its policy against late payment of tuition. Kristel’s remains were brought to the UP Manila campus earlier in the week so members of the UP commu-

Kristel Tejada is laid to rest. nity could pay their respects to her. “As Kristel Tejada is laid to rest today, I join the UP faculty, staff, and students, and her relatives and friends in deep prayer and mourning,” Pascual said. He added he was “deeply saddened” by the “loss of a promising Iskolarng Bayan who in life showed a keen interest in her studies.” “Every student is precious to us. Every young life lost is a lofty dream snuffed out. For we see in our students – in each one of them – a bright ray of hope for the upliftment of our country and people,” he added. Meanwhile, some 50 lawmakers who graduated from UP are targeting to raise P100 million from their pork barrel allocations to put up an assis-

tance fund for poor UP students. Cagayan de Oro Rep. Rufus Rodriguez disclosed this as other House members slammed the huge cuts made by the Aquino administration on the budget of state universities and colleges (SUCs). Rodriguez said he and his colleagues from UP are setting aside P2 million each from their annual Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) to put up the new UP Financial Assistance Fund. “UP has a very limited budget and I also appeal to the private sector to pitch in and have more scholars,” Rodriguez said. The lawmakers came up with the initiative following the suicide of Tejada. n

that the Aquino administration could fully defend the merits of the RH law, but said it respects the High Court’s decision to stop its implementation for four months. “We will observe the status quo ante order resolution issued by the Supreme Court and we are confident that the government will be able to defend the merits of the Responsible Parenthood Law,” said presidential spokesman Edwin Lacierda in a text message. Supporters of the controversial law in the House of Representatives are also not at all worried about the roadblock set by the SC. Albay Representative EdcelLagman, the main proponent of then RH bill in the House, said the SQA issued is “only a temporary delay” to allow the SC “to fully assess the merits and demerits of the pending petitions challenging the constitutionality of the RH law.” “I firmly believe that eventually, the constitutionality of the RH law

will be sustained. The RH advocates had prevailed in the legislative and executive departments, and they will likewise triumph in the High Court,” Lagman said in a press statement. President Benigno Aquino III risked the clash with the Church and Churchbacked politicians to sponsor the law and lobby for its passage. He signed the law in December, and the Department of Health last week drafted and approved its implementing rules, setting it into motion. The law makes sexual education compulsory in public schools, and mandates government health centers to provide universal and free access to nearly all contraceptives to everyone, particularly the country’s poorest, who make up a third of the population. So far, such access has been patchy, expensive, and hinged on the political will of local governments. In the past, for instance, some mayors banned free distribution of condoms in their areas. n

SULU SULTAN SAYS ‘PINOYS’ CHARGED ARE MALAYSIANS

MALAYSIA has granted the Philippines’ repeated requests for consular access to eight Filipinos who have been charged with terrorism-related offenses in Sabah and all those who have been detained for investigations under Malaysian laws. But the Sultanate of Sulu said those charged with terrorism and waging a war against the Malaysian king are actually Malaysian citizens. Abraham J. Idjirani, spokesman of the sultanate, said this information was given by members of the “raayat” (constituency) of the Sulu Sultanate in Sabah. Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) spokesman Raul Hernandez said the Malaysian Foreign Ministry sent a note verbale on March 20 to inform the Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur about the granting of consular access in accordance with the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations. The eight Filipinos believed to be followers of Sulu Sultan JamalulKiram III were charged before a Magistrate’s Court in Sabah for violating two articles in Malaysia’s Penal Code: Section 122 (waging war against the King); and Section 130 KA (terrorism). While Section 130 KA (terrorism) calls for a jail term of up to 30 years, Section 121 (waging war against the King) can fetch the death penalty At least 62 Filipinos have been killed in the crisis, 107 have been detained, and another 243 were arrested while hundreds of Philippine nationals living and working in Sabah were displaced. The Philippine embassy in Kuala Lumpur’s humanitarian/consular team already distributed relief goods, provided passports and issued travel documents (TDs) to Filipinos who have expressed their wish to return to the Philippines and to those who prefer to stay there amid tensions between followers of the Sultanate of Sulu and Malaysian authorities. “Despite the challenges, our humanitarian/consular teams are deeply committed to providing assistance to our nationals in Sabah,” Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia Ed Malaya said in a statement. The embassy team turned over food packs and relief goods for Filipinos at the four evacuation centers located at the Federal Land Development Authority (FELDA) Salahat area. According to the embassy, there are around 1,500 evacuees in four FELDA evacuation centers. In Tawau, the humanitarian/consular team assigned there processed 348 TDs for Filipinos who expressed their desire to be repatriated, and are making arrangements for their repatriation to the Philippines. n

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ABU SAYYAF FREES AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN Warren Rodwell was freed by his Abu Sayyaf captors last March 23 in Pagadian City, Zambonga del Sur, 15 months after he was abducted and held hostage in the jungles of Western Mindanao. Sources privy to the negotiation said Rodwell was released after payment of a P4-million ransom. Officials, however, would not confirm the information. Chief Superintendent GenerosoCerbo Jr., spokesman of the Philippine National Police (PNP), said Rodwell was first seen by a civilian identified as Nathaniel Tampos walking around the Pagadian Fisheries at around 1 a.m. on March 23. Rodwell, a former soldier, 54, joked with policemen and a journalist who took exclusive video footage of him for the Agence France Presse (AFP) at the Pagadian City Police Station. “Lose weight... skeleton,” a smiling Rodwell said as he took off his T-shirt for the video camera and pointed at ribs that could be seen hard up against his skin. He then sucked in his stomach to accentuate his weight loss. Cerbo said the leadership of the Pagadian City police later informed higher authorities in Mindanao who in turn advised it to secure Rodwell until the arrival of a chopper which will fetch him. Rodwell was accompanied by members of the Australian Federal

CHINA TO HOLD WAR GAMES IN SPRATLYS Rodwell is escorted by authorities after his release. Police and the Deputy Ambassador of Australia in the chopper. Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard expressed relief over Rodwell’s release and congratulated Philippine authorities for their handling of the case. “I do want to pay tribute to the government of the Philippines and their agencies and personnel, they worked so hard to secure MrRodwell’s release,” Gillard told reporters. Rodwellwas kidnapped by a group of armed men on December 5, 2011 from his seaside home in Ipil, ZamboangaSibugay Province.

He was then reportedly taken to Basilan where he was allegedly turned over to the Abu Sayyaf led by FurujiIndama. The latest report before he was freed was that he was in Sulu. After several months of being transferred to various small groups of Abu Sayyaf, his captors released a short video clip posted in social media where he was seen appealing for assistance for his freedom. The release of Rodwell came a few days after a Malaysian captive, kidnapped in Tawi-Tawi 17 months ago, was also freed by the Abu Sayyaf. n

83 NURSING SCHOOLS CLOSED

A total of 83 schools, colleges, and universities will no longer be allowed to offer nursing programs starting June, 2013, after they were ordered closed for failure to comply with the standards set by the Commission on Higher Education (CHEd), officials said. CHEd National Capital Region (NCR) Director Catherine Castañedasaid that the non-compliant schools have already been advised by the Commission to voluntarily “phase out” the Nursing programs that they offer for not meeting the standards set by CHED. “The schools already know since the closure orders have been given to them already. This means that starting June this year, they can no longer offer the program and they cannot accept new enrollees,” Castañeda explained. She said “more than half” of the non-compliant schools expressed their intention to voluntarily “phase out” their nursing courses or programs. CHEd said that in NCR alone, a total of seven schools have “voluntarily phased out” their nursing programs. Among the reasons cited by these schools in voluntarily phasing out their programs are “poor enrollment” and “they can no longer support the operations” of the program. Castañeda said technical panels took time “to carefully review the records of all schools offering nursing programs.” As per CHED, nursing

Chinese warships in South China Sea

programs are considered “substandard” if less than 30 percent of their graduates have “passed the licensure exams in the last three years or if they lack competent faculty and facilities such as training hospital, laborato-

ries, and libraries.” She added that “substandard” nursing schools that were ordered to close down their programs are usually given the chance to voluntarily phase out their programs by not accepting new students next school year. “They would have to tell their students to transfer to other accredited nursing schools or they can gradually phase out the program, meaning, hindinasilatatanggapngbagong first year students at patatapusinnalangyungmga remaining students saibang year level,” Castañeda stressed. She clarified that only the nursing courses or programs in these schools, colleges, and universities are “ordered phased out and not the entire school.” The closing of nursing program ordered by the CHEd Commission en banc would be effective starting this school year, 2013-2014. n

A high-level United States defense and military delegation assured the Philippines of increased joint military exercises as China announced its own naval war drills in the South China Sea. Foreign Affairs secretary Albert del Rosario, who had met with visiting US deputy secretary of defense Ashton Carter, withheld comment on the ongoing Chinese war drills, saying he had yet to verify the location of the training exercises and whether or not it infringed on the country’s territorial claims in the West Philippine Sea. China’s state-run Xinhua news agency had said in a report that a fleet of four Chinese navy ships sailed off Hainan province in southern China for what it described as “a regular arrangement” in its yearly training programs. Different parts of the waters around the Spratly Islands off southern China are being contested by the Philippines, Vietnam, Taiwan, Malaysia and Brunei. Xinhua said China’s four warships would undertake training exercises that included “command post establishment, operational maneuvering from the sea and high-sea convoy missions.” Quoting Jiang Weilie, commander of the People’s Liberation Army’s South China Sea fleet, Xinhua said warships Jinggangshan, Lanzhou, Yulin and Hengshui were deployed for the war drills on March 19. “The training exercises will be conducted according to requirements of actual combat, with the aim of improving the navy’s defense capabilities based on the

information system and enhancing its ability to safeguard maritime sovereignty,” Xinhua quoted Jiang in its report. Amid tensions over rival maritime claims in the region, the presence of US military forces in the Philippines is expected to increase. Del Rosario said Carter, accompanied by several other defense and military officials, assured him of America’s support for the country’s efforts to strengthen our military and its ability to defend our country. Del Rosario said Carter had said “the US stands solidly behind the efforts of the Philippines to resolve the maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea in a peaceful manner and consistent with the rule of law.” “I welcomed Dr. Carter’s strong support for our efforts at peacefully settling the maritime disputes in the West Philippine Sea. We are committed to seeing this through,” said Del Rosario. He was referring to the Philippines’ arbitration case against China to stop the latter’s incursions in the West Philippine Sea and to invalidate the Chinese nine-dash line claiming almost all the islands in the contested waters, including those within Philippine maritimeborders. During the meeting, the DFA said the officials agreed to step up capacity building efforts for the Philippine military, saying “it is important that there be an increase in the number of exercises and other approved activities between the military and defense establishments of the two countries.” n

POEA LISTS TELLTALE SIGNS OF ILLEGAL RECRUITMENT PHILIPPINE Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) Administrator Hans Cacdac reminded overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to watch out for the telltale signs of illegal recruitment. For those applying for jobs abroad, Cacdac recommends checking if one or all of the following signs of illegal recruitment ring a bell with your agency:

-- they ask for immediate payment even if you have concrete job offer yet -- they have no headquarters, or they conduct house-to-house recruitment -- they like to show pictures of beautiful houses, cars, or land titles, and tell you the same fate awaits you if you work with them

If the following sound achingly familiar, it would be wise to do a doubletake as you could fall prey to victims of illegal recruiters. In a TV interview, Cacdac said the above signs were the most basic telltale signs of illegal recruiters. He gave several reminders for Filipinos to avoid being victims to illegal recruiters and to ensure that they

will be able to safely and legally work abroad. Cacdac said it is wise to check the list of licensed recruiters through the POEA, the Department of Labor and Employment, or the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration. Potential applicants can also call hotlines of the agencies to ask or verify, as well as check the POEA website. n

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