Manila Mail Community News

Community Pictures

2011-11-15T10:38:00.001-08:00

Daly City Library Commissioner Dorie Cachuela-Paniza and her husband Lamberto Paniza are leaving this week for Hong Kong to attend the launching of the "Group of Filipino Speakers & Writers HK" and the 8th Anniversary celebration of the Passi City (Iloilo) Association Hong Kong.

Passi City (Iloilo)Association Hong Kong (PCIAHK) will be holding its 8th anniversary celebration as well as the oath taking of the newly elected set of officers for the year 2011-2013. It will also be the launching of the "Group of Filipino Speakers & Writers HK"which is composed of the participants from the Quest for the Best Speaker "2011 during the Family Day celebration of PCIAHK which was held recently. Invited guests are: Passi city, IloIlo Government Officials with Mayor Jesry Palmares and Commissioner Dorie Cachuela-Paniza of Daly City CA. Board of Trustees.

A birthday celebration was thrown for Merlie Subido by her relatives held recently at her residence.

The Hallelujah Chorale during a recent concert held at Mater Dolorosa Parish. At the center is music director, Angie Pasamba

Ms. Japan 2011 Araceli Carbonell and her escort; FASA President Roger Arellano together, at the Royal Dance event in Acton, California on November 7th, 2011

JSCAMINS PRODUCTION & BEAUTIES - USA Headed by Cesar Ballesteros , Zenaida Wong , and Manuel Lazarte announced as the official California delegate to the 2012 Mutya Ng Pilipinas Beauty Pageant to be held in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines. Megan Cannova of Los Angeles CA was chosen to represent California. Megan is an LVN nursing student at Casa Loma College. She stands 5’7” in height, her vital statistics are 36/26/ 35. She was introduced to the media last Saturday at Hilton Garden, Burlingame. Philippine News owner Francis Espiritu, Jojo Peralta of Asian Journal, Maite Camins of Philippine Today and yours truly Joey Panlilio of Manila Mail.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY - Leocadia "Laddy" U. Paras will celebrate her 80th birthday on December 10th, 2011 at her residence in 4687 Demaret Dr. Santa Clara, CA.

The California Wellness Foundation announces 2011 California Peace Prize honorees

2011-11-15T10:35:00.001-08:00

$25,000 Cash Awards Honor Unsung Heroes of Violence Prevention San Francisco – Ray Balberan is an expert at bringing together San Francisco city leaders, law enforcement officials, caseworkers and community members to create programs that save lives. Dedicating her life to helping the underserved, Priscilla Carrasquilla oversaw a tattoo removal program that gives youth a second chance in San Jose. A small farm educator and agricultural researcher, Manuel Jimenez uses his passion for growing plants to prevent violence by putting youth to work creating community gardens in Woodlake.

On November 17, The California Wellness Foundation (TCWF) will honor these three community leaders with its 19th annual California Peace Prize at a ceremony in San Francisco. In recognition of their efforts to prevent violence and promote peace, the honorees will each receive a cash award of $25,000. [Visit CalWellness.org for more information, including a newsroom section devoted to the 2011 California Peace Prize and the three honorees. High-resolution photos are also available.]

“These honorees are leading the way with innovative programs that help young people while preventing violence in their communities,” said Gary L. Yates, president and CEO of TCWF. “They represent the thousands of unsung heroes dedicated to improving the health and well-being of California’s youth.”

Ray Balberan
Now retired, Ray Balberan serves as a community elder — building on more than three decades of achievement in violence prevention and public health through advocacy and mentorship. Currently, Balberan consults for Arriba Juntos’s Northwest Community Response Network, a San Francisco collaborative that coordinates street outreach, health, re-entry and other services for youth and families. He also consults with La Clínica de la Raza, a community-based clinic with locations throughout Alameda, Contra Costa and Solano counties.

“Community-based services are critical to stopping violence and must be developed and driven by the community,” Balberan said.

Priscilla Carrasquilla
Priscilla Carrasquilla deeply values forgiveness and providing support to young people who are ready for change. For 15 years, she ran the Clean Slate Tattoo Removal Program at Santa Clara Valley Medical Center (SCVMC) in partnership with the city of San Jose. The program removes gang tattoos, which can often inhibit young people from trying to get ahead or search for jobs.

“My nursing career is dedicated to bringing Jesus’ love to the needy,” Carrasquilla said. “Our tattoo removal program brings that love as a second chance.”

Manuel Jimenez
Manuel Jimenez is an agricultural expert and lifelong Woodlake resident who provides direction to youth by teaching them about responsibility, leadership, confidence and respect through gardening. His efforts have helped reduce violence in Tulare County. Jimenez is a farm advisor for the Small Farms Program within the county’s University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE). In 1993, Jimenez, together with his wife, Olga, founded Woodlake Pride, a volunteer organization that prevents violence by putting youth to work in innovative beautification projects throughout the community.

“We get kids involved in doing something positive,” Jimenez said. “Our goal is to plant gardens, grow kids and grow a community.”

The California Wellness Foundation is a private independent foundation created in 1992, with a mission to improve the health of the people of California by making grants for health promotion, wellness education and disease prevention. The Foundation prioritizes eight issues for funding: diversity in the health professions, environmental health, healthy aging, mental health, teenage pregnancy prevention, violence prevention, women’s health, and work and health. It also responds to timely issues and special projects outside the funding priorities.

Since its founding, TCWF has awarded 6,213 grants totaling more than $780 million. It is one of the state’s largest private foundations. Please visit TCWF’s website at www.CalWellness.org for more information, including a newsroom section devoted to the California Peace Prize and the three honorees. High-resolution photos are also available.

Global Online Money Transfer Company, Xoom, Launches Mobile Site to Reach Users on the Go

2011-11-15T10:34:00.001-08:00

Xoom’s New Mobile Site Allows Users to Send Money Anytime, Anywhere

November 14, 2011, San Francisco, CA— Xoom.com, the fastest growing online money transfer company, today announced the launch of its fully optimized mobile site that enables users to send money worldwide, right from their mobile device.

“Our customers have always been able to send money at any time, now they can send money from anywhere,” said John Kunze, Xoom’s President and CEO. “Any customer with an iPhone, Android or other mobile device can easily send money to the Philippines which can be picked up in cash, deposited quickly to a bank account or delivered to the recipient’s home.

The secure mobile site, which was developed in partnership with Usablenet, can be accessed at m.xoom.com from any web-enabled mobile device. It offers the same features of Xoom’s regular website, including the ability to send money, check the status of a transaction and see current exchange rates.

“Xoom is committed to providing our customers with breathtakingly fast, easy and fair experiences,” said Joe Raymond, Xoom’s VP of Product Management. “Our new mobile optimized website is a natural extension of that promise.”

About Xoom.com

Xoom.com was founded in 2001 and is now one of the biggest and most trusted online money transfer companies in the US. Xoom offers safe and secure sending options from the convenience of your laptop, tablet PC or smart phone. Customers can access Xoom.com 24/7 and send money using their bank account, debit or credit card. For more information, go to www.xoom.com.

McDonald’s® Annual “Give A Hand®” Fundraiser Includes New Donation Options to Support Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®)

2011-11-15T10:33:00.003-08:00

“Give A Hand” Program Extends Online for Second Year with Multi-Winner Online Sweepstakes
Oak Brook, Ill. (November 10, 2011) – Beginning today, McDonald’s® USA invites customers nationwide to celebrate McHappy Day® by visiting participating U.S. McDonald’s restaurants and purchasing a paper Hand through its annual “Give A Hand®” fundraiser to help support Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®). New this year, McDonald’s customers can purchase a paper Hand in-restaurant for $1, $3, or $5, with all proceeds benefitting RMHC. McDonald’s has supported RMHC – the company’s “Charity of Choice” – for 37 years.

“Give A Hand” Online Sweepstakes
In addition to the annual in-restaurant fundraiser, the “Give A Hand” online sweepstakes is back with more ways to win. For the second year, McDonald’s invites customers to show their support for RMHC via McDonald’s USA Twitter handle (@McDonalds) with a chance to win daily prizes. To participate, customers are encouraged to write a message of support for RMHC on their hand, take a picture, and submit it online at http://bit.ly/mcdgah. Each day, between November 10 - 20, 2011, three winners will be selected at random from the submitted hand photos to receive a prize pack, $250 cash prize, and a $500 donation in their name to their local RMHC Chapter. As a token of appreciation for customers joining McDonald’s to support families in need, everyone who submits a photo of their hand will receive an electronic coupon for a free McCafé beverage with the purchase of a Happy Meal®. More information on the sweepstakes and official rules can be found at http://bit.ly/mcdgah.

Providing More Ways to Support RMHC
In addition to McDonald’s annual “Give A Hand” fundraiser, customers can support Ronald McDonald House Charities year-round through the company’s Happy Meal and Mighty Kids Meal® donation program. When customers purchase a Happy Meal or Mighty Kids Meal, a portion of the proceeds is donated to RMHC. McDonald’s also continues to support in-restaurant RMHC Donation Boxes. Through these vehicles, McDonald’s, along with its customers and franchisees have raised nearly $39 million nationwide for RMHC in the past year alone.These contributions and countless, additional local McDonald’s fundraising efforts, enable RMHC to continue its mission to improve the health and well-being of children through its three core programs, the Ronald McDonald House®, Ronald McDonald Family Room® and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®.

About McDonald’s
McDonald's USA, LLC is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to millions of customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald's 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Since 1974, McDonald’s has supported RMHC and its mission to improve the health and well-being of children around the world. Customers can now log online for free at any of the more than 12,000 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com or follow us on Twitter (@McDonalds) or Facebook (Facebook.com/McDonalds) for updates on our business, promotions and products.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities
Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC), an independent non-profit 501 (c) (3) corporation, creates, finds and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children. Through its global network of local Chapters in 54 countries and regions, its three core programs, the Ronald McDonald House®, Ronald McDonald Family Room® and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile®, and millions of dollars in grants to support children's programs worldwide, RMHC provides stability and resources to families so they can get and keep their children healthy and happy. All RMHC-supported programs provide a bridge to quality health care and give children and families the time they need together to heal faster and cope better. For more information, visit www.rmhc.org, follow RMHC on Twitter (@RMHC), or like RMHC on Facebook (Facebook.com/RMHC Global).

Sweet Jubilation at Mater Dolorosa

2011-11-15T10:33:00.001-08:00

South San Francisco, CA, November, 11, 2011: As a fitting finale to cap this year's 50th anniversary celebration of the Mater Dolorosa parish, and to usher in the Christmas season, Hallelujah Chorale and Cherubim, the church's adult and children's choirs, will present their sixth annual holiday concert entitled “In Dulci Jubilo” (Sweet Sounds of Rejoicing) on December 9 and 10, Friday and Saturday, at 7:30 PM at the Mater Dolorosa Church on 307 Willow Avenue, South San Francisco.
The Hallelujah Chorale is dedicated to the enhancement of liturgy by leading the Mater Dolorosa parish community in praising and worshipping in song. Under the patient tutelage of the exceptionally talented and dedicated music director Angie Pasamba, this group of volunteer musicians and music lovers has evolved into a music ministry known for its rich repertoire of liturgical music for Sunday masses, for delivering unique choral and orchestral arrangements by the director herself, and for their long-awaited annual holiday concerts. This year's concert program includes a collection of musical excerpts and some soulful solos from the Broadway favorites "Don Quixote" and "Les Miserables," as well as traditional carols exalting the birth of Jesus, our true reason for jubilation. Accompaniments will be provided by a professional classical string ensemble.

Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Proceeds will benefit the church's stained glass restoration project. For tickets and sponsorships, call (650)-583-4131, (650)-878-1715, or email mdssf50@yahoo.com. Everyone is invited to come, listen and rejoice with us in sweet jubilation upon the founding of our parish and the birth of our Lord!

Metlife offers insight to help consumers achieve a comfortable and secure retirement

2011-11-15T10:32:00.001-08:00

NEW YORK, November 14, 2011 – Retirement is a goal that most people look forward to in life. While many consumers recognize the importance of planning today to live a comfortable lifestyle tomorrow, it can be overwhelming to determine just how much money they will need in retirement. To help consumers get started on their retirement planning, MetLife shares three simple steps to simplify the process.

“MetLife understands that retirement planning is individualized and requires consumers to look at personal factors such as their necessities, income sources and desired lifestyle,” said Laurel

Daring, assistant vice president of Diverse Markets at MetLife. “With over 140 years of history and a team of experienced financial representatives, MetLife is well prepared to assist individuals in creating a personalized retirement plan to fit every situation and help consumers achieve their personal goals.”

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, less than 50 percent of Americans have determined how much they will need in retirement. While there is no magic number for the amount of income needed in retirement, MetLife offers a starting point for consumers to consider:

• Understand your essential expenses: This is what you will spend for the necessities – housing, food, clothing, transportation and healthcare – and you should plan to cover these with income you can rely on for as long as you live. Essential expenses tend to average about 60% of your salary (pretax) just before you retire. However, they can vary considerably based on your lifestyle choices and healthcare needs, so it’s always a good idea to make assessments based on your personal situation.

• Add it up to see where you are: Start first with the annual amount you expect to receive from your Social Security and pension plan. Then, multiply any other retirement savings you have by 4% (a commonly expected withdrawal rate) and add that result to your SocialSecurity and pensions income. If this amount is over 60% of what your pre-retirement household income is, it’s likely that you’re on track to cover any essential expenses in retirement. If your number is less than 60%, consider taking additional action to boost your retirement income and/or better manage your expenses.

• Take steps to create reliable income: The good news is that your Social Security and other employment-based retirement plans are great resources of reliable income, but if you’re like most people, you will need more stable, life long income to cover essential expenses. There are simple, small steps you can take to start to convert your assets into more reliable income. Start protecting your future income by considering an annuity, reverse mortgage or other financial services products to help cover any remaining expense gaps.

“Your retirement income should be able to cover essential expenses. If the basics are taken care of, then you’ll worry less and do more of the things you enjoy,” added Daring. “Weigh your options and get help from your employer or a financial professional.”
For more information on retirement planning or to find a local MetLife representative who can provide insight and one-on-one consultation about retirement planning and other financial services, call 1-800-638-5433 or visit www.metlife.com.

About MetLife
MetLife is a subsidiary of MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET), a leading global provider of insurance, annuities and employee benefit programs, serving 90 million customers in over 50 countries. Through its subsidiaries and affiliates, MetLife holds leading market positions in the United States, Japan, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East. For more information, visit www.metlife.com.

Parol Making Kit Available

2011-11-09T10:27:00.000-08:00

San Francisco – Thinking of saving money this Christmas on your decoration budget? Would you want to share Filipino Christmas tradition with your friends and relatives in the United States ? Would want to see something Filipino iconic item in your décor at home or in your office?

Why not make your own parol lantern? Parol is a five-point star that is made of Philippine bamboo, papel de japon (tissue o rice paper) and cellophane. The parol lantern is a symbol of hope, blessings and peace.

Don’t worry about supplies; they are now available in the U.S. and can be ordered at the Bayanihan Community Center (on 1010 Mission Street in South of Market in San Francisco ), online at http://bayanihancc.org/parol2011/build_parol.html, or at 415-348-8042. You can also get tutorial and how-to-tips in building your own parol.

In San Francisco , the Filipino community celebrates the annual Parol lantern Festival and Parade annually. This is the 9th edition which was started in 2003 and has become a must-see event during the holiday season in San Francisco.

The parol making activity brings people and community together. As an art and craft imported from the Philippine Christmas tradition, the Parol Festival is an effective vehicle in promoting Filipino culture and creativity.

The festival begins with a series of parol lantern-making workshops held at the Bayanihan Community Center ( 1010 Mission St. on 6th Street), every Friday night from 5:30 pm to 8:00 p.m. and in other community centers. The parol making workshop is open to the public.

The largest public event, which features the culminating activities of the Parol Festival, is held on Saturday, December 10, 2011, from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Yerba Buena Lane , Jessie Square and St. Patrick’s Church. There will be a parol stroll, a pageant of brightly lit lanterns made by participating contingents who are vying for the Tala Awards. The theme for this year’s Tala Awards is Pag-Asa: Bright visions for the future. Pag-asa means hope in Tagalog.

Each year, the South of Market neighborhood and Filipino community showcase the parol lanterns - the quintessential Filipino symbol of hope, blessings, luck, peace, and light during the holiday season - and brighten the Jessie Square , Yerba Buena Lane and Mission Street between 3rd and 4th Street .

The San Francisco Annual Parol Lantern Festival and Parade is organized and presented by the Filipino American Development Foundation, Bayanihan Community Center , Kularts and supported by the Grants for the Arts, MJM Management, Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, Alliance for California Traditional Arts, St. Patrick’s Parish, Western Union and ABS-CBN International. For more information, please contact Parol Festival at 415-348-8042, email parolsf@gmail.com or visit www.bayanihancc.org.

The First National Assembly of Filipino Priests, USA, November 8-11, 2011, Westin Los Angeles Hotel, Los Angeles, CA

2011-11-09T10:25:00.001-08:00

October 4, 2011, Los Angeles, California. In conjunction with the 10th Anniversary of the USCCB Pastoral Statement, “Asian and Pacific Presence: Harmony in Faith” and in solidarity with other Asian and Pacific Catholic communities in the United States, the first ever National Assembly of Filipino Priests, U.S.A. will be held on November 8-11, 2011 at the Westin Los Angeles Airport Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The assembly aims 1) to promote unity, support, and growth among Filipino priests ministering with their cultural gifts and 2) to serve as a forum for collaboration and effective pastoral leadership development.

To date, there are approximately 900 Filipino Catholic priests serving in different capacities in the Roman Catholic Church in the U.S.A. They serve in parishes, schools, seminaries, chaplaincies, chancery offices, and national institutions in the 50 states and some US territories.

The national assembly will hold dialogue sessions and workshops for continuing education, spiritual growth and pastoral enrichment. Some topics are Intercultural Competencies for Mission; The Spirituality of the Filipino Priest; The Priest’s Role in The Public Arena; Mens Sana in Corpore Sano: Priest and Wellness; Lay Ministry: Joys and Challenges; and Priestly Fraternity and Ministry. The workshops will be facilitated by renowned speakers and presenters in various fields in the Church’s ministry, as well as respected Church leaders like His Eminence, Roger Cardinal Mahony, D.D., Archbishop Emeritus of Los Angeles; Most Rev. Randolph Calvo, D.D., Bishop of Reno and Chair of USCCB Subcommittee on Asian and Pacific Island Affairs; Most Rev. Gerald Kicanas, D.D., Bishop of Tucson; Most Rev. Luis Antonio Tagle, D.D., Bishop of Imus, Cavite, Philippines; Most Rev. Robert McElroy, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop of San Francisco; and Most Rev. Oscar A. Solis, D.D. Auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles and Episcopal Liaison to the Filipino Priests in the U.S.

The assembly will also hold a special Concelebrated Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels on Thursday, November 10, 2011 at 11:00 A.M. The Mass is open to the public. There will also be a Filipino Priests Concert and a Barrio Fiesta on the evening of November 10th at 7:30 P.M. at the Westin Los Angeles Airport Hotel Grand Ballroom. For tickets to the concert and the Barrio Fiesta dinner, please contact Marilyn Walberg at (818) 640-9038. For more information about the First National Assembly of Filipino Priests, USA and to give donation, please go to www.filipinopriestsusa.org or contact the Very Rev. Vic Dela Cruz at (985) 876-6904 or NAFP.USA@gmail.com.

TFC marks debut into international film production with the U.S. premiere of “A Mother’s Story”

2011-11-09T10:24:00.000-08:00

REDWOOD CITY, CA, November 2, 2011 – Filipinos worldwide will once again witness another first in Philippine cinema as TFC unveils its very first foray into movie production with A Mother's Story.
Headlined by Pokwang, one the country's leading comedy sensations in her first dramatic role, A Mother's Story will have its premiere showing at the Alex Theatre in Glendale on November 6 with two screenings at 1 pm and 6 pm.

Some 100 TFC subscribers, who were selected randomly, will get a chance to have their pictures taken with the film's lead star, Pokwang, at the premiere's venue.
Filipino movie enthusiasts around the world will also get their chance to witness Pokwang's transformation from a comic host to a dramatic actress when A Mother's Story is shown starting November 11 in major cities worldwide including Calgary, London, Madrid and Milan.

“We at TFC are overseas Filipinos ourselves so we live and breathe in the world our kababayans abroad are in. Thus, it’s not enough to tell stories of Filipinos that come from the homeland through TV programs and movies, but also share those that come from us who have lived outside of it,” said Kerwin Du, TFC North America’s head of theatricals.

Du continued: “Film is one of the essential purveyors of narratives. The journey of the overseas Filipino is among the finest and richest sources of compelling stories that need to be told to the world. Hence, TFC’s foray into film production is a natural and relevant progression of our mission to serve Filipinos wherever they may be.”

Du also shares that most of the film's screenings in the US will be subtitled to allow even non-Filipino speaking moviegoers to understand and appreciate the film.

A Mother's Story gives life to the story of Medy, played by Pokwang, a make-up artist who dares to make a life in the United States as an illegal immigrant in exchange for saving the life of her infant daughter.
The film focuses on the everyday sacrifices that millions of Filipino parents make as they leave their homes to find jobs overseas.

“For TFC's initial offering, we dedicate A Mother's Story to all the Filipino parents and children who continue to live and love apart,” explained John-D J. Lazatin, the director of A Mother's Story.
Lazatin embarked on the journey of helming TFC's very first production as a way to honor his own mother. “She was a widow who also came to America and sought the American Dream to secure the future of her kids,” shared Lazatin as he added that the film, “is very personal to me, having lost my mother during the post-production stages of the movie.”

Beyond the universal themes of a parent's love and sacrifice, A Mother's Story also showcases both the travails and triumphs of illegal immigrant Filipinos.

Juxtaposed with their humiliation as they suffer from physical and emotional abuse from employers as well as the betrayal they experience from fellow kababayans are the kindness of strangers and the value of treating every human being with decency.

In returning to the Philippines, Medy is also forced to deal with the resentment of her oldest son King, who felt that his mother abandoned him seven years ago, while her seven-year old daughter Queenie treats her with innocent wonder.

TFC chose host and comedienne Pokwang to play Medy because her own personal life epitomizes the struggles of an overseas Filipino worker (OFW). “She does not just know it, she has lived it. She has a full grasp of what sacrifice means to the overseas Pinoy,” Lazatin pointed out.

Lazatin praised Pokwang for her “authentic” portrayal of Medy. “Her performance in the film is a reflection of an honest and pure heart. Watching her, what is left is a thin layer between the reel Medy and the real Pokwang,” Lazatin further shared.

Joining Pokwang are Nonie Buencamino, Daria Ramirez, Rayver Cruz, Ana Capri, Beth Tamayo and child sensation Xyriel Manabat. Screenplay is by Senedy Que, who also wrote the award-winning film, "In My Life".

A Mother's Story will be showed across the U.S. in the following theaters and on the following dates:

SAN FRANCISCO
November 11-17, 2011
UA Stonestown Twin
501 Buckingham Way,
San Francisco, CA 94132
SAN FRANCISCO CENTRE
November 11-24, 2011
Century San Francisco Centre
845 Market Street,
San Francisco, CA 94103
SF-UNION CITY
November 11-24, 2011
Century 25
32100 Union Landing,
Union City, CA 94587
SF BAY - MILPITAS
November 11-24, 2011
Century Great Mall
1010 Great Mall Drive,
Milpitas, CA 95035
SF BAY - SACRAMENTO
November 11-24, 2011
Century Laguna 16
9349 Big Horn Blvd.,
Elk Grove, CA 95758

Power ng Pinoy holds Filipino trick or treat with Seafood City in Concord

2011-11-09T10:22:00.001-08:00

Trick or treat with Filipino touch seems to be a new idea to many Filipinos in the Bay Area but that was what GMA Pinoy television show Power ng Pinoy was after in partnering with Seafood City Concord in coming up with Halloween Trick or Treat Tent Event last Oct 30, 2011. In a rather first-of-a-kind approach to celebrating Halloween, the event showcased less tricks although overflowing with treats of Filipino talents especially in the simultaneous shows held both inside and outside Seafood City.

Considering, however, the huge turnout of an estimated crowd consisting of families towing along children spruced up in costumes, this event may well become an annual thing that is expected to be awaited during this time of the year.

Among the activities featured were Ethnic Baybayin by Christian Cabuay, pumpkin carving contest, Sing Galing Competition for aspiring non-professional singers, ethnic instrument Kulintang numbers by Ron Quesada, an array of Filipino rural dances (Subli, Pandanggo, Tinikling, Singkil, etc.) by Johnny Veloso’s Mabuhay Folkloric Society, a Halloween Green Screen Photo booth, vendors’ booths and entertainment numbers held simultaneously at the indoor and outdoor stages.

“This was started by a joint effort from volunteers in the Contra Costa County along with Xclusive Marketing, Power ng Pinoy team and Seafood City. It was initiated to give a safe and fun environment for kids and adults to celebrate Halloween with Filipino flavor,” shared TV program and event host Anthony Rivero. “The Power ng Pinoy team was there to show our kababayan that we can gather as a community and even for a day forgets all our troubles and just enjoy each others' company and talents.”

Rivero co-hosted the event with Power ng Pinoy co-host Jessica Cabuay, together with Nanette Cartago, Trina Soledad, Sansu Johnson, and upcoming singer and entertainer Nicole Donesa.

The artists that showed their talents include Simply Just with Stella Ruiz, Grupong Pendong that featured artists from and sang popular songs from popular folk band "Asin"), Classic Rhythm Band, Marie KB Revue, Anthony Bunales, Michael Cruz (of TV show Singing Bee fame), Nicole Donesa, student performers from the Bytes and Notes and the Maharlika Dance Troupe. Power ng Pinoy Executive Producer Arnold Pedrigal added that while the hosts and crew were there to promote Power ng Pinoy, the show’s team was also there to be one with the Pinoys in celebrating Halloween in person.

Community Pictures

2011-10-27T11:39:00.000-07:00

FALEO wishes to extend their gratitude and appreciation to the San Francisco 49ers. Mr. Mason Moore of the 49ers was presented a certificate of appreciation by FALEO – President Glenn Sylvester, San Francisco Police (retired)

Disadvantaged children from Westbay School were selected as guests to attend the recent game of the SF 49ers vs. Tampa Bay on Sunday, October 9, 2011. For most of them, this was their first time attending a major sporting event.

Gary de Guzman celebrated his birthday with a party at Isla Restaurant in San Bruno, California with chef owner Melvin Pare and his wife Joangel Pare. Isla restaurant serves authentic Kapampangan-Filipino food. Try their New Kamayan Platter. " Sulit, the best!" For more info. please visit www.myislarestaurant.com

Over 170 guests attended the Inaugural Ball and Induction of Officers. Some of the guests traveled from other states and countries to grace the occasion. The Ibajaynon U.S.A was organized in 1972 by the late Mr. Mike Castro. In 1986, eighteen families from Ibajay, Aklan attended the potluck and this served as the backbone and strength to the formation of the Ibajaynon U.S.A. One of the founders are Ricardo and Aurora Tan, parents of Mr. Relfe S. Tan who is now the President of Ibajaynon U.S.A.

President of Forever Young Club of California, Ms.Tess Gregorio will celebrate her 70th birthday on Nov 13 , 2011 at Crown Plaza in Union City. In photo is her loving husband Feodor Gregorio and Asia's Nightingale Ms. Lani Misalucha.

ISSUE 43: October 26, 2011

2011-10-27T11:34:00.000-07:00

GMA Life TV presents 1st ever Pinoy English-dubbed series

(Iza Calzado, Sunshine Dizon star in “The Impostor”; Angelika dela Cruz
and Maxene Magalona in “When You Were Mine”)

Iza Calzado, Sunshine Dizon, Angelika dela Cruzand Maxene Magalona

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
Four women, two different stories, one compelling theme about the pains and realities of life – GMA Life TV offers these and more with the launch of the first-ever English-dubbed Pinoy drama series recently.
Providing Filipinos abroad the chance to once again enjoy two of the most sought-after Philippine television drama, the English-dubbed versions of “Impostora” (“The Impostor”) and “Una Kang Naging Akin” (“When You Were Mine”) also promise to make the programs available to non-Filipino speakers and younger Pinoy viewers who find comprehending the native language a bit of a challenge.

Topbilled by some of the most versatile Kapuso actresses today – Iza Calzado and Sunshine Dizon in “The Impostor,” and Angelika dela Cruz and Maxene Magalona in “When You Were Mine” – these new offerings from GMA Life TV surely bring to the spotlight the acting prowess of the four actresses.
“This initiative is in line with our thrust to make GMA Life TV’s programming even more relevant to the needs of its growing viewership around the world”, shares Joseph T. Francia, Vice President and Head of Operations for GMA International.

The San Francisco Lions Club held a Health Fair last Sunday Oct 16 at the Methodist Church in South Gate, Daly City. Volunteers headed by President Pat Ancheta arranged for free flu vaccines. Their next Health Fair will be at Matter Dolorosa Church in South San Francisco on Oct 30 (with free flu vaccines again!).

Belated Happy Birthday to the Perkins Twins (Oct 14) who will be seen next singing/dancing at the Charice-Pacquiao concert on Tuesday, November 15 @ 8:00PM at The Cow Palace.

15-year old Half-German Filipina Alexandra Drechsler, center, (Filipina mom Elizabeth was so proud watching) was featured in a well-attended Bridal Fair last weekend at the Holiday Inn Express in Morgan Hill organized by Julie Barraza; make-up by Christine Paul Pacifico of San Jose (with Justin Smaby, right, & Leo Reyes).

Intramuros' New Executive Chef Cocoy Ventura with Former President Fidel Ramos (he ate there last month).

Bon Voyage, Henry Sy (who left for business trips to Europe & Asia), shown here at the recent "Teleserye Royals" with actress Maja Salvador, at the James Logan High in Union City.

Iza is Lara and Sara Carreon in “The Impostor” – a tale of conjoined twins whose physical separation becomes for them more of a curse than a blessing. Because of hatred and greed in their own bloodline, Lara and Sara are forced to live life without the other after having gone through an operation, which they thought would make their life easier.

Soon enough, they find their lives entangled with their cousin’s, Vanessa, as played by Sunshine – a greedy, cunning woman who is willing to do everything that needs to be done to gain for her self the attention and material wealth she longs for. Vanessa shares with Lara and Sara a world where secrets, craftiness, and vengeance seem to be the means to one thing – love.

Meanwhile, Maxene is Jessa in “When You Were Mine.” She is a painter in a remote island where she meets Darwin (Wendell Ramos) whom she falls in love and bears a child with. After being involved in an accident – his second – Darwin introduces himself as Nick, a businessman who’s soon to be married to his girlfriend, Vanessa (Angelika), without any memory of Jessa or their son.

And so the dilemma becomes deeply complicated for Darwin. He is now to choose between two different lives with two different women. Whether Darwin decides to pursue the simple, slow-paced family life with Jessa and their son or to go back to the high end way of living he has known with Vanessa is for GMA Life TV viewers to find out.

SEEN IN THE CITY
Intramuros Restaurant, relaunched!
It was a magical dinner gathering, made even more memorable as Cellist Charles Wang provided music as I munch on the mood-setting hors d'oeuvres. This Columnist was there when it happened about a couple of weeks ago when Intramuros Restaurant introduced Mr. Cocoy Ventura, CEC, as its new Executive Chef at a press conference attended by members of the Philippine American Press Club and special guests. Chef Ventura showcased exciting menu specials for the upcoming holiday season created especially for the Filipino-American community.

Prior to Cocoy Ventura's association with Intramuros, he joined the culinary team of Napa Valley's Rubicon Estate, a premiere winery owned by Francis Ford Coppola. Ventura's six collective years of culinary and hospitality experience in the California Wine Country gained him respect among his industry peers, as he was ultimately invited to join the renowned Thomas Keller Restaurant Group (Yountville's French Laundry, Bouchon Bistro and Ad Hoc Restaurant) in 2010. He then integrated and managed the now, "Central Reservations" sector of Bouchon and Ad Hoc restaurants. Last year, Ventura also served as a Guest Chef in the Philippine International Aid (PIA) benefit auction and helped raise significant funds for PIA’s educational program for disadvantaged youths, by preparing a 12-course degustation dinner for three private parties held at the residence of the Philippine Consul General Marciano Paynor, Jr., in San Francisco.

Cocoy Ventura graduated with honors from Guam Community College with Associates of Science degree in Hotel Operations. He pursued an undergraduate degree in International Business at Cornell University and graduated with honors. He was also granted a private scholarship to pursue Specialized Training in patisserie in New York's French Culinary Institute. In 2007, he was awarded a Certified Executive Chef title, designated by the American Culinary Federation.

General Manager Jamil Rey said, "We are very proud to welcome Cocoy Ventura to Intramuros. His culinary expertise and management experience will ensure that Intramuros will have a bright future ahead.”
Guests included South San Francisco Vice Mayor Richard Garbarino, Philippine Consul Reginald Bernabe, Department of Tourism Director Rene de los Santos, and philanthropist Mona Lisa Yuchengo.

The evening was highlighted by guest speaker, Mr. Dado Banatao, a renowned entrepreneur, philanthropist, and venture capitalist. He and his wife Maria commended Intramuros Restaurant owners for their efforts in providing an entertainment, cultural, and heritage venue for the Fil-Am community.

In his keynote speech, Mr. Banatao remarked, “I have always looked at Intramuros in a special way,” in reference to Intramuros’ unique mission of promoting the Filipino community and culture in a dining and entertainment environment. He also stated, “There is a lot of creativity here, going beyond what is usual” and “Maria and I are here to help and promote Intramuros.”

In addressing unfounded rumors that Intramuros might not continue, Mr. Banatao said, “That’s just not true and if you believed that, we are back.” He welcomed Cocoy Ventura by saying, “When I heard that Cocoy had joined Intramuros, I thought, let’s go ahead and show the community and the rest of the Bay Area what Filipinos can do with cuisine.” In closing, he thanked everyone and said, “I’m glad that you guys came out (tonight) to support Intramuros…”

Intramuros owners reiterated their commitment to serving the Fil-Am community and partnering with various non-profit and community-based organizations. Director Rene de los Santos called on professional chefs in the SF Bay Area to participate in the Semi-Finals of the 2nd Annual KULINARYA competition to be held on October 22, 2011. Details are available at www.experiencephilippines.org.

Ms. Letty Quizon of ABS-CBN Foundation announced a whole day fundraising event at Intramuros on November 26, 2011 to benefit the victim of ‘Typhoon Pedring’ with a Christmas Tiangge (shopping), silent auction, and a concert featuring international artist, Becca Godinez, and singing sensation Mitch Franco.

The evening’s entertainment was capped with a Flair exhibition by Ryan Burgos, the award-winning mixologist of Intramuros, and a performance of the Argentine Tango by Genevieve Mondejar Dwyer and Don Cain.

Guests were treated to a food tasting of special holiday dishes from two distinct menus inspired by Thanksgiving and Christmas, which will be offered on November 18–24 and December 1–24, respectively. These special menus and schedule of upcoming events, including a concert at the Music Hall featuring famed “HotDog Band” on November 18–20, are available at www.theintramuros.com.

Intramuros Restaurant accepts reservations from 1 to 12 months in advance. Banquet and catering specialists are Ms. Guia Panelo and Ms. Pearl Serame-Bayot. Visit www.theintramuros.com now for more information.

Briefs & Shorts
This Columnist is proud to announce that the Bay Area Fashion Week (of which I was proudly part of, together with about 65 other volunteers) held last September 24, 2011 at the San Jose State University, will be honored in a gala event tendered by the Mayor of the City of San Francisco, Edwin M. Lee, Hon. Hydra Mendoza, President of the San Francisco Board of Education and The Filipino Channel (represented by Miss Keesa Ocampo) as one of the 7 milestones in Filipino-American History in 2011. Good job, Producer Roger Francisco, Associate Producer/Coordinator Theresa Zaragoza, models, designers, sponsors and volunteers!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“I may not have everything but I have enough.” – by ‘The Buzz’ Host Boy Abunda when asked on his recent birthday wish.
This article also appears online at www.FilAmnation.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 147 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com
Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

Consul General Paynor signs agreement with the office of the District Attorney

2011-10-11T13:40:00.000-07:00

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. and San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón.

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today with San Francisco District Attorney George Gascón to institutionalize the working relationship of the Consulate General of the Philippines and the Office of the District Attorney to assist Filipino nationals.
The signing ceremony, witnessed by the media and community advocates against domestic violence, was held at the Library of the Office of the District Attorney.
Through the MOU, both offices agreed to work together towards the larger goal of creating an accessible and coordinated system of comprehensive services for Filipino victims of violent crimes in general, and domestic violence, trafficking and hate crimes, in particular.
Consul General Paynor congratulated the work done by both offices to have this agreement come into fruition.
“This document is significant for us and our Kababayans as we fulfill the mandate of the Department of Foreign Affairs under the Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act (RA 8042) to protect the rights and welfare of Filipinos abroad,” Consul General Paynor remarked.

Community Pictures

2011-10-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

Macaella Mary Antonette Mendoza received the sacrament of baptism last Saturday October 8, 2011 at the San Agustin Church in South San Francisco, CA. With the proud parents were Tommy Mendoza and Jovy Moratto with son Tre. The reception was held at the Broadmoor Community Center.

World Muay Thai Team USA Group during the exibition fights at Unlimited MMA at Milpitas CA. headed by
Kru Sam Phimsoutham.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Manila Mail's President and Publisher Ruben P. Bunag (left) who celebrated his 61st birthday last October 9th,

HAPPY BIRTHDAY Manila Mail’s Photographer Gary De Guzman who will celebrate his birthday on Oct 23rd, 2011.

25 YEARS of Unparalleled Service in Northern California

2011-10-11T13:31:00.000-07:00

Mon Cargo owner Agnes Singh (standing) with Marketing Director, Fe De Los Reyes (right seated)

Photos taken at the Adobo Festival in Milpitas last Sept. 3 & 4, 2011. MON CARGO’s staff gave away free shipments, t-shirts etc.

MON CARGO SERVICES, INC., the pioneer in door-to-door delivery services to the Philippines in the Bay Area, celebrates its 25th Year Anniversary.
As they celebrate their 25th year, they always attribute their success from the patronage of their customers, old & new, for their extensive & loyal support and that they will always continue to improve the quality of service their customer’s deserve and to even surpass their expectations, committed to a dependable and dedicated Service.
Established in 1986 by Mr. Mon V. Singh, Mon Cargo has always been consistent with his prime objective to reach out to the needs of his fellow Filipino US immigrant with excellent service. MON CARGO sticks to its belief to maintain an outstanding track record of being the most Honest, competent and steadfast enterprise of its kind.
In line with its goal, the management and staff of
MON CARGO is known to be responsive, empathetic, very accommodating and very polite in dealing to its valued customers. They always make themselves available to inform their customers on the status of their balikbayan boxes in the Philippines.
Agnes Doniego Singh, President says, “In all our dealings, we make it a point to be friendly, courteous, fair and compassionate to everyone.” Since then, Mon Cargo has remained true to its slogan: “ Hanggang doon mula dito, kahon niyo’y selyado ,Walang Bawas, Walang Kulang,Delivery Intact.”. “Para Sa Serbis Na Walang Kaparis”
MON CARGO offers the following services:
Container Shipments for Returning Residents, Crating, Home Appliance/ Furniture, Vehicle Shipments,Airline Tickets, FREE Replacement Box, Free Strapping, Insurance up to $500. Visit their website http//moncargoservices.com for photos, testimonies from their very satisfied customers and more informations.
To avail of Mon Cargo’s promotions, please call 1-800-432-4300.

COMELEC Officials Meet with the Filipino Community to Discuss Overseas Absentee Voting

2011-10-11T13:28:00.000-07:00

Rodel Rodis (left, standing) explains that the ‘06 Supreme Court decision allows dual citizens to vote while not requiring US residence should also extend to permanent residents under the principle of equal protection of the law.

Commissioners Lucenito Tagle and Christian Robert Lim of the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) met with the Filipino American community on October 5, 2011 to discuss the Overseas Absentee Voting Registration and provide updates on preparations for the May 2013 National Elections. The meeting was held at the Social Hall of the Philippine Center.

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. remarked that at the Presidential elections held last year, 41,512 Filipinos registered for Overseas Absentee Voting in the US and 12,554 actually voted. He cited the following numbers which clearly described the level of participation of Filipinos in the US during the 2010 elections: the percentage of actual registrants versus potential registrants is 5.41%, the percentage of voters versus actual registrants is 30.24% and the percentage of voters versus potential registrants is 1.64%.
It was noted during the meeting that the target number of registrants for Overseas Absentee Voting worldwide is one million Filipinos. Currently, the number of registrants is 351,273.

Both Commissioners recognized the factors negatively affecting voter registration: requirement to execute Affidavit of Intent to Return; geographical location of voters; apathy; high mobility of overseas Filipinos; limited manpower of embassies and consulates; working conditions; insufficient information campaign; incorrect addresses provided by the voters; and lack of novelty.

Among the factors, the requirement to execute an Affidavit of Intent to Return is the most significant obstacle.

Rodel Rodis (US Pinoys for Good Governance/ USP4GG) explained that the 2006 Supreme Court decision to enfranchise dual citizens by removing the residence requirement should also extend to permanent residents under the principle of equal protection of the law.

The Commissioners responded that they encouraged concerned Filipinos to raise this issue with the Supreme Court so that a clear ruling could be obtained.

Victor Barrios (Global Filipino Nation) and Tony Villegas (USP4GG) recommended registering and voting via internet to save on costs and to address the challenges of high mobility of the Filipinos and the physical distance of the embassies and consulates.

The Commissioners agreed with these suggestions and said that they would present these suggestions at the next en-banc meeting of the Commissioners.

Joyce Diloy (Filipino Mental Health Initiative) asked the Commissioners on how the community could help and be updated on developments on Overseas Absentee Voting.

The Commissioners would like the Filipino community leaders to help in encouraging their friends and family members to register and vote. They also announced that they will launch a campaign called “Sulong OAV,” using Facebook and other media.

Esther Chavez (Inquirer.net) also offered the use of the Philippine Daily Inquirer website to provide a link to the official website of COMELEC.

The Commissioners thanked Ms. Chavez for this offer.

The resumption of continuing registration for qualified Overseas Absentee Voters begins on October 31, 2011 and ends on October 31, 2012. All citizens of the Philippines who intend to vote abroad and are at least eighteen (18) years of age may register.

Visit your nearest Philippine Embassy or Consulate and bring a copy of your Philippine passport OR dual citizenship Identification Certificate and Order of Approval to register.

ISSUE 41: October 12, 2011

2011-10-11T13:23:00.000-07:00

“No Other Woman” breaks box office records
(No other movie has made audiences feel this way)

Anner Curtis is Derek Ramsey's other woman in "No Other Woman" - now showing UA Stonestown Theater and soon in Union City & Milpitas (Oct 14-27)

SEEN IN THE CITY
Arriving at around 5PM at UA Stonestown Theater in San Francisco, I meant to watch the 7PM show of “No Other Woman” – Star Cinema and Viva Films’ movie latest collaboration starring Cristine Reyes, Derek Ramsey & Anne Curtis. The 7PM show was sold-out, so I ended up hanging around for 5 hours to watch the last full show at 10PM. What unfolded on screen is a totally new experience in Filipino movies for me. The dialogues are crisp, witty & intelligent. The performers are not only very good looking (bikini bodies, parade of cleavage, butt crack tattoos, low-waist pajamas) but also very competent (even the restaurant receptionist stole some scenes during the crucial very first wife/mistress confrontation scene).

Washington Hospital celebrated their 25th anniversary at a lavishly-decorated The Tent (aka parking lot) in Fremont, CA last Sunday and seen attending are: May Lacson, Sola Zapien & Maribel Bartos of Fremont Health Care Center.

The Owner & President of of Nursing Resources (Fremont-based Medicare-certified & CHAP-Accredited Home Health Agency), Emmie Malazgirt (2nd right), Cleofe Alejandro, Director of Nursing (right), Freida Policarpio, Case Manager (left) & Sandy Baker attended Washington Hospital's Silver Anniversary Party last Sunday.

Silver Creek's Christine Pacifico Paul (5th left), Lead Make Up and Instructor & Liza Santa Ana (4th left) from Marinello Shcool of Beauty - San Mateo led a team of make up and hairstylists that successfully provided services at the Bay Area Fashion Week models last Saturday, September 24, 2011 in San Jose.

It is hard to describe the good entertainment effect of the movie without citing some of the dialogues that jolted the senses, namely: “Ang kaibahan ng fotahng mayaman versus fotahng mahirap – yung mayaman ay original yan…yung mahirap binili lang sa Greenhills!”…”Ang buhay ay parang Quiapo – maraming snatchers (mother giving advice to daughter whose husband she caught with a mistress)”….”I pack-up mo na yang Lucy Torres at ilabas mo yang Gretchen Baretto!” (mother encouraging her daughter to fight back for the man she loves and married)…and there’s a lot more.

Lani Misalucha will be at Ichiban on Friday, Oct 14th.

Charito Benipayo of Alameda celebrates her birthday on October 13th, 2011.

The confrontation scene and the dialogues where Anne & Cristine wore the same violet outfits and trying to buy the same bag in a store is a gem. And then the following scene where Derek saw them together, for the 2nd time, at his home, wearing almost identical dresses is also amusing. That is a very stressful dinner that followed after.

All 3 lead actors delivered, but the most challenging role (a sophisticated, liberated heredera who’s allergic to seafood but eats them anyways, because as she says “masarap ang bawal”..oh my..oh my) went to Anne Curtis and she essayed it like second skin.

Lion Pat Ancheta was installed as the 91st President of San Francisco Host Lions Club in an Installation Dinner Ball held at Elks Lodge of So. San Francisco last Oct 1st, 2011.

Ms. Tateetz Palomo of San Rafael celebrates her 63rd birthday this week.

My curiosity also got aroused by the scenic location of the resort that is being built in the story,so I stayed until the final credits to obtain the information so I can go there next month, hehehe.
The movie is not perfect, though. The Anne Curtis scene in the beginning where she lost her bikini top trying to avoid hitting Derek Ramsey, needs a little editing to make it more effective, in my opinion (it’s a little long and confusing). I think Ron Morales as Derek’s best friend is also a miscast (something doesn’t match between the two).

The Perkins Twins - Jesse Perkins (left) & Christian Perkins (right) graced the Grand Opening of AGELESS ELIMINAGE as the medical spa's official endorsers, last Saturday at the Season's Market Place in Milpitas, CA. Also in the picture are husband/wife owners Jim & Mary Anne Laurel (center) with their Marketing Annette Velasco (2nd right).

Melissa Oribio (the only child of Merlvin & Riza Oribio) celebrated her 2nd birthday at the Yummy Buffet in San Jose last Sunday.

Nevertheless, no other movie has made this so much impact and the movie going public has rendered their verdict - they loved the Rated-A movie as it is now breaking box office records in the Philippines and other places outside the country.

In the local front, it is bound to break even bigger box office records as it is scheduled to open this week in Union City & Milpitas. Here’s the complete schedule of showing, as culled from their latest trailer on TV:
October 14-27
Union City
Century 25 Theaters
32100 Union Landing
Union City, CA 94587
Milpitas
Century Great Mall
1010 Great Mall Drive
Milpitas, CA 95035
October 7-13:
SAN FRANCISCO
UA Stonestown Twin
501 Buckingham Way
San Francisco, CA 94132
LOS ANGELES-CERRITOS
Cerritos Stadium Cinema
12761 Towne Center Drive
Cerritos, CA 90701

For more information, please visit www.abs-cbnglobalmovies.com. Check also the trailer at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5fydoOJIok

If you’re only going to watch one Filipino movie this year, make it “No Other Woman,” folks!
Incidentally, Anne Curtis & Cristine Reyes will be performing live with Aljur Abrenica & Mark Herras in “Night With The Stars (Kapamilya na, Kapuso pa!)” on Friday, November 18, 2011 at 8PM at the Koffman Auditorium of the Alameda High School located at 2200 Central Avenue, Alameda, CA. For tickets & sponsorships, please call (925) 812-4249.

TO-BE SEEN IN THE CITY
Meet & Greet Lani Misalucha at Ichiban Oct 14th!
Lani Misalucha will be in the Bay Area this coming Friday, October 14, 2011 and will be available to ‘meet and greet’ his friends and supporters at around 8:00 PM at Edna’s Ichiban Library located at 2236 Westborough Blvd, South SF, CA 94080.

For tickets, please call (650) 737-9716.
Briefs & Shorts
“Happy Birthday” greetings to Ms. Tateetz Palomo (Oct 12) who will be celebrating this Saturday at the Seafood Peddler in San Rafael, Ms. Charito Benipayo (Oct 13) & Mr. Von Cruz (Oct 15). May your birthday wishes all come true.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Do not lose your heart. For when you sing, you will need to sing from the heart.” – by Talent Manager Par Excellence Boy Abunda to his former talent, singer Erik Santos, who moved out of Abunda’s Backroom, Inc. to be managed jointly by both Star Magic & Cornerstone’s Erick Raymundo. Abunda & Santos had a falling out after reportedly, Santos badmouthed the talent manager for not doing anything to save his sagging career. Somebody tell Erik Santos that “Dah’ling, nobody can go against nature. What’s up must come down, eventually.”

This article also appears online at www.FilAmnation.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 147 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

Community Pictures

2011-09-27T10:43:00.000-07:00

GOLDEN WEDDING ANNIVERSARY--On October 1, 1961 Norma Lagman Maglalang and Alberto Garcia Reyes said their vows, They are native of Apalit, Pampanga. Their love bloomed with three children namely Rosalie Villanueva married to Ruperto Villanueva, Alex Reyes, married to Gina Carlos with children Kenn Pearson, Kristel Ann, Levi and Russel Reyes, Rosita Ocenada married to Benny Ocenada with children Kristian, Kristoffer, Kobe and Kamille Ocenada. They’re going to celebrate their 50th Wedding Anniversary at 33 ARROYO SOCIAL HALL So. San Francisco CA

Synthesis Band @ Manila Garden Restaurant, Hayward
Oct.1st -Saturday, The most sought-after Band in the Bay Area & Peninsula- "Synthesis Band" will perform for the first time @ Manila Garden Restaurant Owned and Operated by Mina Amansec Basto- 20500 Hesperian Blvd. Hayward/8:30pm-1:30am. There's Karaoke alternating during Band's break / Great Food selections, Guaranteed Awesome Music & Entertainment with Synthesis Band playing Non-stop music of the 80's ,90's and the Current Radio Hits"It's gonna be a Good Night!"

The native people of Iloilo or "Mga Ilonggos" after the proclamation of Iloilo City Friendship City of Daly City held recently at Daly City City Hall. The Dominican Sister's of Holy Angels Church, President of Maigiao Association, President of Iloilo Circle of Northern California, Dorie Paniza, Perla Ibarrientos, MaryJo Montano and Arsenio del Rosario.

Rizal High School Alumni Association of North America, 20th Anniversary Alumni Attendees - The 20th anniversary celebration was highlighted with a fundraising scholarship raffle drawing and a dinner-dance held at the Newark Community Center in Newark, California on August 13, 2011. Front Row - L to R: Mario T. Ramos (Secretary) '56*, Rosie Zari Abo '56*, Cris Durol Marquez (Director) '64*, Leny Nair (Director) '75*, Aida Bandril Perez '66, Emy Bandril Samson '60~, Crisanto Beltran '30* (seating), Rosie Dayco Galve (Director) '65*, Estry Alan-Stephens (President) '61*, Lily Quion (Director) '54*, Norma Santiago Middleton (Director) '60*, Nieva Escall '59* , Annie Jose '70* Back Row - L to R: Adolfo Evangelista (Director) '64*, Vener Siasoco (1st VP) '58, Vic Dayco (2nd VP) '56*, Pedro Junsay '60, Bel Raimundo (Treasurer) ' 65*, Oscar Rosales (Director) '63*, Ed Padaoan (Director) '63*, Ed Escall '60*

September 2011 Novena to San Lorenzo Ruiz De Manila, First Filipino Martyr and Saint, Organized by Fr. Marvin Felipe of St. Anne of the Sunset Church.

DOT - Western Union Free Flight Promo Drawing

2011-09-27T10:34:00.001-07:00

Deputy Consul General Alfonso A. Ver, Tourism Director Rene R. De Los Santos, Nonette Roldan of Mango Tours, and Lyn Abad of Pacific Air Leisure during the Raffle Draw of the winner of the Free Flight Promo last September 15, 2011 at the Philippine Center Social Hall at 447 Sutter Street San Francisco, Ca.

Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. with Tourism Director Rene R. De Los Santos awards the Certificate to Ms. Daphne Chew of Pacifica, Ca. winner of the Free Flight Promo of the Philippine Department of Tourism and Western Union, in cooperation with Mango Tours and Pacific Air Leisure

The Philippine Department of Tourism and Western Union concluded the online Free Flight Promo for Two to the Philippines with the Drawing of a winner on September 15, 2011 at the Social Hall of the Philippine Center in San Francisco. Ms Daphne Chew of Pacifica, California was awarded two (2) round-trip tickets to the Philippines via Philippine Airlines courtesy of Mango Tours and Pacific Air Leisure, plus hotel stays at Shangri-la Makati Hotel, Manila Hotel, and Movenpick Resort and Spa in Cebu City. As per Ms. Daphne Chew who was born and raised in Singapore, she has never been to the Philippines and looks forward to exploring the country’s 7,107 islands with her daughter.
The online promotion which was implemented in cooperation with CBS5/CW TV and website had attracted more than 1,500 people to register at the Philippine Tourism website www.experiencephilippines.org during the promo campaign period. Prospective travelers to the Philippines can avail of special tour packages offered by Mango Tours, Pacific Air Leisure, and participating tour operators under the DOT's Filipino Homecoming Program.

Iloilo City forges pact with Daly City

2011-09-27T10:33:00.000-07:00

Mayor Carol Klatt welcomed representatives of Iloilo City during the DCQC 16th Annual Fil-Am Food + Arts Festival last Sept. 17th, 2011 at the Serramonte Shopping Center in Daly City. Pictured (from left to right): Genevieve Jopanda, District Representative at 12th Assembly District, Joe Atayde, DCQC, Vice President, Perla Ibarrientos, DCQC President, Dorie Paniza, Daly City Commissioner of Library (Board of Trustee), Arsenio del Rosario, Chorit Mabilog, Mother of Iloilo Mayor Jet Mabilog, Sister Leonarda Montealto and Evelyn Del Rosario.

ILOILO City is set to sign a ‘friendship agreement’ with the Daly City in California, USA to establish affiliation and reciprocal exchanges in culture, education, business, sports and tourism.
Mayor Jed Patrick E. Mabilog presented to members of the media the “Cooperative Proclamation between the Cities of Daly City and Iloilo City” sent to him by the Daly chief executive Carol L. Klatt who already signed the document.

Mabilog will sign it once he gets the authority from the City Council.
“We are truly pleased that Daly City is interested to establish this friendship affiliation with us for this will mean vibrant exchanges in tourism, culture and education,” Mabilog said. The relationship will also “jointly contribute to the promotion of friendship between the United States and the Republic of the Philippines and along with that effort contribute to peace and prosperity for both countries,” the proclamation reads.
This early, Mabilog is planning to invite Daly City officials and guests for next year’s Dinagyang Festival.
He is also encouraging Ilonggos in Daly City to go home for the celebration of 75th Charter Day in August during the city’s Diamond Jubilee Year in 2012.

Mabilog said he was able to forge the agreement during his meeting with Klatt in the United States last year when Iloilo City received its award from the International Awards for Liveable Communities (Livcom).
Known as “Gateway to the Peninsula”, Daly City is located at the northernmost edge of San Mateo County next to San Francisco and extends from the Pacific Ocean on the west to nearly San Francisco Bay on the east.

It is a regional hub for retail, healthcare and small business with diversified economy, excellent transportation links, and a growing young and productive labor force, according to its website www.dalycity.org.
By: Lucy Montealto-Sinay

Beyond a century of a life well lived

2011-09-27T10:31:00.000-07:00

Nieves Galvez-de Castro

My lola is 108 years old," boasted my 10-year old daughter, LA, to her classmates last year. But instead of getting the usual "oohs" and "ahhs," her classmate answered, "Sooo! My lola is 109 years and can still cook."
With this funny exchange of "Wala ka sa lola ko!" Stories, my daughter went home frustrated that classmates did not believe her at all. I had to explain to her that people rarely reach hundred years old, and rarer still, to live beyond a century. And that her great grandmother is an exception to the rule, and is truly blessed to still be alive and healthy to this day.

Yes, my grandmother Nieves Galvez-de Castro or Lola Bet is past a hundred and has turned 109 on June 20th. She originally hails from San Rafael, Bulacan where she also finished her grade school and high school in San Rafael and Baliuag, respectively before finishing a degree in Home Economics from the Philippine Normal College (now Philippine Normal University). By now, she's probably one of their oldest living graduates.
Her husband, Arcadio Sr., passed away in 1953 and she was left to rear her four children, Erlinda, Arcadio Jr., Celia, and Rolando. She has 10 grandchildren and 13 great grandchildren.

On some days, when we visit her, she can still answer basic questions and recall some details of her life. Her stories will not be complete without mentioning that during the time she was teaching at Magdalena Elementary School in Sta. Cruz, Manila, she has for her pupils the like of Maria Kalaw Katigbak, a former Miss Philippines and well-known actress, Carmen Rosales. However, on other days she sits quietly with her eyes closed and seems to just be enjoying the peace enveloping her. When we were younger, we were left in lola's care during the summer vacation. Since our cousins lived with her, it was also a perfect time to bond with them. When we got older, summer vacations with lola became few and far between. However we still visited and stayed with her on special occasions like her birthdays, Christmas, New Year, Mother's Day and Holy Week break. Or she would go to Manila for visits and we sould see her.

On her 109th birthday, I payed a tribute to my loving grandmother who continues to be the anchor of our family, our inspiration of a life well lived and our measure of true beauty, inside and out.
By: Renelle
De Castro-Ferraris

GMA Pinoy TV bags 2 prestigious awards for Marketing Excellence

2011-09-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

Lolit Tuazon, Sales and Marketing Director of Tahanang Walang Hagdanan with Joseph T. Francia, Vice President and Head of Operations for GMA International

GMA Network’s flagship international channel GMA Pinoy TV continues to uphold excellence in marketing the Kapuso brand, and this is again proven by two valuable awards from the 2011 Excellence in Multicultural Marketing Awards (EMMA) of the National Association for Multi-Ethnicity in Communications (NAMIC).

The EMMA recognizes the members of the television cable industry and their efforts in reaching different cultural segments through their creative and innovative marketing strategies including print, TV commercials, and other marketing materials.

Landing 2nd Places in Marketing Tactics are GMA Pinoy TV’s “Kapuso Abroad” magazine for the Grassroots category and “Manila Jeepneys” for Diversity Awareness.

The “Kapuso Abroad” is GMA International’s glossy magazine targeting Filipinos all around the globe to keep them updated about their favorite Kapuso stars and provide them more stories behind the most anticipated programs from the Philippines as delivered by the two international channels, and soon by the third international, all Filipino news channel, GMA News TV International.

Kapuso Abroad cover page

The magazine has become a popular and favorite item distributed in Filipino community events, in consulate offices, and in Filipino establishments. It has also proven to be a very useful tool for the call center representatives of GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV channel carriers when offering subscription opportunities to their customers. Because of its popularity, GMA International has taken the next step that is to produce the digital counterpart of “Kapuso Abroad” so that it is made available to its online audiences. The magazine, which can now be viewed online via www.gmapinoytv.com, is also a venue for readers to know about the latest events and activities of the Filipino communities worldwide, providing them the opportunity to connect with their kababayans wherever they may be.

Meanwhile, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility, GMA Pinoy TV partnered with the non-government organization Tahanang Walang Hagdanan – the Filipino counterpart of House with No Steps in Australia – in producing items that promoted the international channels and helped raise funds for its orthopedically handicapped members as well.

The “Manila Jeepneys” – hundreds of miniature wooden replicas of the iconic Pinoy vehicle, meticulously crafted by the TWH members – became a means for GMA International to contribute in raising money for the livelihood, medical, and educational efforts of the group. Part of the sales of the wooden jeepneys was also allocated for the special education program for children with special needs.

Through these collectible items, the representatives of the channel carriers acquired a better understanding and appreciation of the Filipino culture and its corresponding market.

Manila Jeepneys

“We are very honored that a renowned body like NAMIC has again recognized our efforts, this time for the ‘Kapuso Abroad’ magazine, which continues to be an effective communication tool among Filipinos living abroad, and the ‘Manila Jeepneys,’ which boast highly of the Pinoy identity. This inspires us to continue reaching out to our kababayans in the country and around the world by tapping means which do not only speak of Pinoy creativity and innovativeness, but also that which are relevant to the larger community,” shares Joseph T. Francia, Vice President and Head of Operations for GMA International.

This is actually the third year that GMA Pinoy TV was cited by NAMIC. In 2006, the “Comcast San Francisco Bay Area GMA Pinoy TV Launch” was awarded 1st place in the Case Study Cable category for being “the most successful cable network launch in Comcast Bay Area history, dramatically exceeding goals.” The Kapuso international channel also bagged the 1st place award that same year in Marketing Tactics for Network Internet/New Media category for its website www.gmapinoytv.com. And just last 2010, GMA Pinoy TV, together with GMA Life TV, again landed 1st Place in Direct Mail Marketing Tactics for “Time Warner GMA Pinoy TV and GMA Life TV launch postcard” and 2nd Places in both Direct Mail and Print Marketing Tactics for “Comcast GMA Life TV Upsell.”

The awarding ceremony for the 2011 EMMA is set to take place during the 25th Annual Conference of NAMIC on October 5 at Hilton New York.

First Asian-Filipina American to serve as the state's Chief Justice

2011-09-27T10:23:00.000-07:00

Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye was sworn into office as Chief Justice of California on January 3, 2011. She is the first Asian-Filipina American and the second woman to serve as the state's Chief Justice. After former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger nominated her as Chief Justice on July 22, 2010, the California State Bar Judicial Nominees Evaluation Commission rated her as exceptionally well qualified for the position. At a public hearing on August 25, 2010, she was unanimously confirmed by the Commission on Judicial Appointments, and in a general election on November 2, 2010, an overwhelming majority of voters elected her to that position. Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye chairs the Judicial Council of California, the administrative policymaking body of state courts, and the Commission on Judicial Appointments.

Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye with Incumbent Candidate for Daly City City Council Raymond Buenaventura

Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye

On Tuesday, September 20, 2011, Chief Justice Tani Gorre Cantil-Sakauye spoke to a large crowd gathered at the Old Courthouse in Redwood City, CA to discuss issues of Diversity in the legal community. The event was sponsored by the San Mateo County Bar Association's Committee on Diversity. The Chief Justice gave a warm and heartfelt speech on her background and history, including reflections on growing up as a Filipina and the cultural issues she faced. She spoke of her history as a Deputy District Attorney the opportunities and struggles she faced as she ascended to through the judicial ranks. She was greeted with thunderous applause and a standing ovation. In addition, Attorney Joe Cotchett was present and received the distinguished Diversity Award from the San Mateo County Bar Association.

Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye has served for more than 20 years on California appellate and trial courts. In 1990, Governor George Deukmejian appointed her to the Sacramento Municipal Court and in 1997, Governor Pete Wilson elevated her to the Superior Court of Sacramento County. On the superior court, she presided over both criminal and civil assignments. In 1997, she established and presided over the first court in Sacramento dedicated solely to domestic violence issues. In addition, then-Judge Cantil-Sakauye chaired the court's criminal law committee and was a member of the presiding judge's task force on domestic violence and the Home Court committee. In 2005, Governor Schwarzenegger nominated her to the Court of Appeal, Third Appellate District.
Chief Justice Ronald M. George appointed Justice Cantil-Sakauye to the Judicial Council of California in September 2008. She has served as vice-chair of the Executive and Planning Committee, vice-chair of the Rules and Projects Committee, chair of the Advisory Committee on Financial Accountability and Efficiency for the Judicial Branch, and cochair of the Judicial Recruitment and Retention Working Group. Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye was also a member of the California Commission for Impartial Courts. She previously served as a member of the Judicial Council's Domestic Violence Practice and Procedure Task Force and chaired its Best Practices Domestic Violence subcommittee. She is president of the Anthony M. Kennedy American Inn of Court, an organization dedicated to promoting civility, ethics, and professionalism in the practice of law. Since 2007, she has been a Special Master, selected by the Supreme Court to hear disciplinary proceedings before the Commission on Judicial Performance.
Born in 1959 in Sacramento, Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye attended C. K. McClatchy High School (1977) and Sacramento City College (1978) before receiving her BA from the University of California, Davis, graduating with honors in 1980. After taking a year off to visit her ancestral homeland, the Philippines, the Chief Justice entered the UC Davis, Martin Luther King, Jr., School of Law in 1981. After receiving her JD in 1984, she worked as a deputy district attorney for the Sacramento County District Attorney's Office, where she prosecuted a variety of criminal offenses. In 1988, she served on the senior staff of Governor George Deukmejian in two capacities: as deputy legal affairs secretary and as a deputy legislative secretary.
Chief Justice Cantil-Sakauye is a former board member of several nonprofit organizations and has been active in numerous professional community organizations, including membership in the California Judges Association, the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association, and the Sacramento Asian Bar Association.
She has received many awards, including honors from the Sacramento Domestic Violence Coordinating Council, the 2005 President's Award from the Sacramento Asian Bar Association, the 2003 Trailblazer's Awardfrom the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association, the Filipina of the Year Award, and other awards from youth groups.

Community Pictures

2011-09-20T11:05:00.000-07:00

State Sen. Leland Yee, a front-runner in the race for San Francisco mayor, suprised El Shaddai leader Brother Mike Velarde and his son Philippine Congress member Michael Velarde,Jr. of party list Ang Buhay at the recent El Shaddai San Francisco chapter anniversary celebration at Our Lady Star of the Sea. Photo by Francis Espiritu

Family Affair. Baptism of Mauro Crispin Rafanan Angus on August 21, 2011 held at Holy Spirit Church, Fremont, CA. Shown from L to R: Neil Rafanan, Jaime Angus (the Dad), Mario and Maria Angus, David Angus, Noreen Rafanan Angus (the Mom), Lien Rafanan, Jaden Rafanan, May Rafanan, Vanessa Arrivas, Connie Rafanan (the Grandma), Brenda Arrivas, Mariano (Jun-Jun) Rafanan (the Grandpa), Cindy Arrivas and Natividad de Guzman (the Great Grandma)

Ongpin Restaurant recently celebrated their 16th anniversary with a company picnic at Sta. Cruz Boardwalk.

"Kadoks" celebrated the grand opening of their 2nd location at 1466 N. Milpitas Blvd. in Milpitas on September 17, 2011. The guest of honor for the ribbon-cutting ceremony was Milpitas Mayor Jose "Joe" Esteves. Pictured are: Pam Tejada, Mayor Joe Estevez, Pastor Apusen and Ric "Kadoks" Tejada.

Left to Right: Zenaida Sarmiento, Jesus Mendoza, Ex-Mayor Emma Chan, Mayor Artemio Chan, President-elect Arturo G. Tolentino, Antonio Escomiendo, Fred Almeron.

Mrs San Fabian 2011, Cristina Navarro escorted by Buri-Buri Fil-Am Association President Moring Macalinao during their Coronation Night (United Pangasinan Association) held recently at the Hilton Hotel Burlingame, CA.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Aaron Joseph who will be turning 2 on September 24th, 2011.

Issue 38: September 21, 2011

2011-09-20T11:00:00.000-07:00

Why didn’t Charice sing at
“One Kapamilya Go”?

SEEN IN THE CITY
“One Kapamilya Go” at Universal Studios-Hollywood is a huge success, beyond all expectation, in all barometer. Doubting Universal Studios management was pleasantly surprised as both 2PM & 6PM shows were filled to capacity. The Filipino food at almost all concession and restaurants sold like hotcakes. Vendors and sponsors were pleased as results brought about by the huge audience turn out proved to be very briskly business.

Charice at "One Kapamilya Go" backstage at Universal Studios-Hollywood last Sunday.

Pokwang at Universal Studios-Hollywood last Sunday.

The production staff & crew of "One Kapamilya Go" celebrate their huge success at Universal Hilton-Hollywood.

(L-R) Jed Madela, Kathryn Bernardo, Julia Montes, Marcelito Pomoy & John Lloyd Cruz headline TFC's "One Kapamilya Go" at Universal Studios-Hollywood last Sunday; photo taken during the afternoon press con at the Universal Hilton the day before.

The show proper was appropriately aided by 3 giant HD screens and TFC made use of that technology to optimize their show’s quality. Audiences’ attention shifted flawlessly from the giant screens to the stage as both taped videos and live performers pop in and out of sight. Pokwang brought the venue down with her undying ‘One Moment In Time’ comedic performance. John Lloyd Cruz is funny; Coco Martin is kwela; Lani Misalucha, Jed Madela, Angeline Quinto & Marcelito Pomoy all delivered glass-shattering numbers, while Mara Clara’s Kathryn Bernardo & Julia Montes were both loudly applauded. There was no shortage of backup dancers that overflow the huge stage everytime a production number turns upbeat. I totally like the strong emphasis made to thank the sponsors (which included Manila Mail Newspaper) through the smart use of the twins – Justin & Jeremy (made popular by Youtube’s “The Lazy Song” Bruno Mars video). It was creativity at its best.

Direk Laurenti Dyogi at "One Kapamilya Go" PBB auditions at Universal Studios-Hollywood last Sunday.

(L-R) Professional Photographer Hydee Ursolino Abraham & Chicago-based famous Chef Ron Bilaro watch "One Kapamilya Go" at Universal Studios-Hollywood.

That’s the good news.
Now comes the juicy one. We had an accidental encounter with today’s hottest Filipina mainstream Pop Superstar, Charice, wearing a grayish color beanie, at the backstage of TFC’s One Kapamilya Go (the 6PM show, not the 2PM one) held at the Gibson Amphitheater of Universal Studios-Hollywood last Sunday night, September 18, 2011.

City of Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa, through his representative, officially declares 09/18/2011 as 'The Filipino Community Day at TFC's "One Kapamilya Go" at Universal Studios Hollywood' with TFC's main honcho Raffy Lopez and ABS-CBN North America Managing Director Chinky De Jesus in attendance, together with OKG Project Head Ricky Resurreccion, TFC Director for North America Jun Del Rosario, TFC Global Head For Corporate Affairs, Nerissa Fernandez and a number of Fil-Am politicians from Southern California, among others.

More than 12,000 people filled Gibson Amphitheater in the combined 2 shows last Sunday at TFC's "One Kapamilya Go" at Universal Studios-Hollywood (management were pleasantly surprised with the huge turn out) last Sunday. Audiences were treated with a high-quality packed entertainment aided by the venue's 3 giant HD screens

It was minutes before the show ends and sitting inconspicuously in the barely-lit backstage was Charice, with her American Manager, firstnamed Courtney beside her. Charice was not mentioned as one of the guests performing that day so I was in total disbelief as I saw her.
After taking her picture & short ‘Hi’ video, I personally asked her how come she didn’t sing and she responded that she was just visiting friend(s). I noticed that she wasn’t wearing any backstage pass nor the green color all-access wristband, meaning she got there, passing all strict security details, by her own merits.
Later in the night, during the cast party at the nearby Universal Hilton, 4th Floor Sierra Meeting Room, talks are loud that Charice was considered to headline the ‘One Kapamilya Go’ performers and was in fact invited through her handlers way back in August this year. The invitation was left unanswered, apparently. Trouble in showbiz paradise, eh?
This column is open anytime to Charice’s camp for any clarification on this matter.

These PBB hopefuls (about 106 from thousands) made it through the first cut of auditions and are coming back in for the 2PM succeeding elimination round at the Globe Theater inside Universal Studios-Hollywood.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
Direk Lauren ‘probably’ had found ‘The Next Sam Milby’ at the latest PBB audition
Director Laurenti Dyogi declared last Sunday night, after the PBB auditions held at the Globe Theater inside Universal Studios-Hollywood, that this year’s auditionees are lesser in number but a higher quality batch. As a matter of fact, he said that he probably had found the next Sam Milby (again?). Thousands of hopefuls lined up as early as 8AM. They were given numbers and then ushered in at the security-laden Globe Theater where they were cut the initial interview. Only about 106 survived the first cut. The 2nd cut survivors were then divided into age groups (below & above 25) and gender (biological, not preference). The 3rd cut was deep as were the 4th, the 5th and who knows up until when, as the process dragged on and on until the show proper concluded. Reportedly, the search was transferred to the Universal Hilton as decision-makers had a hard time picking the rightful winner(s). At the hotel, I saw numbered candidates leaving the venue, but one caught my attention by sheer star quality – he was wearing a hat (or a benie), long curly hair, fair complexion, about 5’9”.

Can't wait to celebrate success onstage at 'One Kapamilya Go' sa Universal Studios-Hollywood are ABS-CBN Global Ltd's Head of Events Mickey Munoz, OKG Project Head Ricky Resurreccion, ABS-CBN North America Managing Director Chinky De Jesus, Events Specialist at ABS-CBN Global Ltd Igi Bumagat, ABS-CBN's Jun Guzman of Union City & ABS-CBN International's Carlos 'Mouse' Munoz

Mr. Johnny and Corazon Soriano celebrated their 50th Wedding Anniversary @ the Most Holy Trinity Church last September 3, 2010 in San Jose California.( L-R) Joycelyn Soriano,Annabelle Soriano Alquiza,Johnny Soriano,Cora Soriano,Claire Manango,Victor Soriano. Reception was held @ The Most Holy Trinity Center. In attendance were Milpitas Mayor Jose Esteves with wife Susan Esteves, Florence Vitug Pena, Fashinista Rhuddee Vitug (Emcee of the Party) and Entertainers Elizabeth Ramsey and Sansu Ramsey Johnson.

Could he be ‘it’? Stay tuned for the next PBB season for the formal announcement.

Briefs & Shorts
2011 Miss World-Canada at the BAY AREA FASHION WEEK this Saturday
Half-Filipina Riza Santos, the reigning Miss World-Canada arrived last Sunday at the San Francisco Airport (many thanks to our sponsors for welcoming/ picking her up) and was checked in at Marriott Downtown San Jose (thanks to the Perkins Family). She will walk the runway of Bay Area Fashion Week this Saturday 8PM at the San Jose State University’s Barret Ballroom, together with 6 other beauty queens and about 60 plus models, 50 plus Designers (with their 700 plus collections). It’s touted to be the biggest fashion show San Jose has ever seen, so watch it! Call (925) 389-1382 for your $45 or $60 VIP ticket reservation now.

Bay Area Fashion Week boasts 7 Beauty Queens, 60+ models, 50+ Designers, 700+ collections in San Jose's biggest fashion show ever - coming this Saturday, September 24, 2011 at the San Jose State University's Barrett Ballroom 8PM. Call (925) 389-1382 to reserve your $45 tickets now.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“It was already the 5th time that I saw that trailer and still, it doesn’t fail to make me cry.” – by Comedienne Pokwang at the ‘One Kapamilya Go’ full trailer screening of her latest movie, “A Mother’s Story,” about an OFW mother, her trials and challenges. Yep, it’s drama.

Identical Twins Mrs. Encar de los Reyes & sister Elena Yabut celebrate at San Jose's Hellyer Park last month after learning Encar's pregnancy (after 8 years of patiently waiting). Congratulations, Encar!

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 144 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

Community Pictures

2011-09-14T12:32:00.000-07:00

FORMER EMPLOYEES OF PHILIPPINE VETERANS BANK held their 7th PVB Grand reunion last September 2, 3 & 4, 2011 at the Hilton Garden inn in Mountain View California. Members coming from all over the United States and Canada graced the occasion. The affair was indeed a very successful one. It was decided by the members that the next reunion that will be in 2013 will be hosted by the Southern California Chapter.

Monica Laire Pidoy is a 14 year old Bay Area singer from San Leandro who was the “Livermore's Got Talent” Grand Prize winner in February of 2009. Monica also won “Hayward Idol” on April 2010. She was the guest performer in April Boy Regino’s Concert on August 15, 2009 and in Matt Ranillo’s “Kristo” theater play. This December she will be competing at the “Ichiban Idol” grand finals to be held in Cache Creek Casino & Resort. Monica will be turning 15 next year and hopefully, she’ll be joining “American Idol”.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY to Bay Area Photographer and Drummer Adrian Bautista who turned 27 on September 8th, 2011.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

2011-09-14T12:30:00.000-07:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Commissioner Dorie Paniza and Vince Rivera who celebrated a ballroon dancing bash last Sunday, September 11, 2011 at the Lincoln Park Community Center, Daly City. Shown in photo above are (L-R) Juliet Pimentel, Steve Perry, Alice Perry, Vince Rivera, Nicole Donesa , Commissioner Dorie Paniza and Lambert Paniza.

Commisioner Dorie Paniza posed with her Birthday cake and ever supportive family; son's Gilvin and Reigil and husband
Lambert Paniza.

Ms. Lolita Hajian and daughter Malou Hipolito who were at the party to celebrate Dorie's Birthday.

Among the invited guests were; upcoming star Nicole Donesa (2nd fron left) who sang “Ikaw” dedicated to the birthday celebrants. Pictured with her are her proud parents Wilma and Fernando Donesa and talent Manager Maui Leyson.

Bayanihan Annual Camping Trip

2011-09-14T12:28:00.000-07:00

Friends of Bayanihan Cargo; Joel, Floyd, Sonny, Art, Manny (Owner of Bayanihan Cargo) and Rey.

Bayanihan Cargo had recently held their Annual Company Camping at KOA Petaluma last Labor Day weekend. Spearheaded by Manny Espinosa, owner of Bayanihan Cargo , their camping for 17 years to count, was joined by family & friends: (Abedes, Antonio, Bishop, Carpio, Montances, Ponce, Reyes, Sison, Fitch, Ponce 2, Dizon, Respicio, Cajaion, Lapus, Salazar, et al. ). Each family having their kids grew up camping looks forward yearly for fun activities such as swimming, biking, rock climbing, stargazing, games, karaoke and campfire. The adults have their share of fun with card game known as Red Dog, karaoke, and cooking. Having Kambing and Lechon courtesy of Floyd & Rina Ponce highlighted the camping with the help of all the dads and moms. Camping is a great time to bond, unwind, inspired, and energized amidst the challenges we face in life. Everyone looks forward to their 2012 camping with enthusiasm.

Issue 38: September 14, 2011

2011-09-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

2011 Miss World-Canada
Rizza Santos to arrive Sunday
(Half-Filipina Beauty Queen will model at the BayArea Fashion Week)

2011 Miss World-Canada Riza Santos will arrive this Sunday at SFO to model for BAY AREA FASHION WEEK.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
To give way to our corporate sponsors ads, this week’s column piece will be short. So, on with the community news! Half-Filipina Riza Santos, the reigning Miss World Canada arrives in San Francisco Airport this Sunday from Calgary. She is here for a week to rehearse, promote & participate in San Jose’s biggest fashion event ever – the BayArea Fashion Week happening on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at the San Jose State University’s Barrett Ballroom at 8PM. The Ballroom is located at One Washington Square, San Jose, CA 95192. She will headline several jaw-dropping segments in a fashion show, including a special one showcasing other beauty queens like her (including 2011 Miss Teen California Jordan Fowler, 2010 Miss Philippines Earth-USA Melissa Sokukawa of Union City, CA, 2006 Little Miss Philippines-USA Kerlyn Horn from San Jose, among others).
This Columnist had the good fortune of meeting Riza in person when she appeared as a guest at the Vancouver Pinoy Fiesta last month. We got into talking, exchanged emails and we invited her to join the San Jose BayArea Fashion Week.
While here in the US, Riza will undergo formal trainings and workshops in make –up under the mentorship of Hollywood-trained Christine Paul of San Jose (who will pick her up directly from the San Francisco Airport), Q&A, Outfit & Accessories, as well as ramp & runway impressions (under Roger Francisco, the overall Chairman & Director of BAFW). Riza will also be selecting her pageant competition wardrobe from the US from a long list of highly-interested mainstream fashion designers & supporters.
Riza will compete in the 61st Miss World pageant at the Earls Court Exhibition Centre on November 6, 2011 in London. Alexandria Mills of the United States is the reigning Miss World.

Will she be our 3rd Miss Universe? By the time this paper comes out, a new Miss Universe would have been crowned. But that will not diminish Miss Philippines Shamcey Supsup's latest accomplishments - graduating Magna Cum Laude from UP, topping the Architectural Board Examinations & topping the internet voting of Miss Universe 2011 88 candidates (an automatic semi-finals slot awaits her). Good luck, Miss Philippines Shacey Supsup!

SEEN IN THE CITY
Vice Ganda left her heart in San Francisco
Vice Ganda just had a very successful comedy concert at Cache Creek Casino last Saturday night, September 3rd, all punchlines delivered, tasks accomplished, except for one thing – she’s still looking for San Jose’s CA Licensed Physical Therapist & part-time model Leo Reyes.
The 2 had seen each other up-close when Leo joined Vice Ganda and her co-stars in a VIP photo op after the show.

The one man Vice Ganda wants & can't have is San Jose's Leo Reyes.

Vice Ganda asks for Leo Reyes' whereabouts at her Cache Creek Casino penthouse private suite after her mega-hit Sept 3rd comedy show.

It is when this Columnist went up to her Penthouse private suite at Cache Creek to post-interview her for her latest successful show and we showed her the latest issue of Manila Mail Newspaper that she again saw Leo, in an article photo that she looked for him again. When informed that Leo left for the night to meet his visiting brother, she didn’t hide her disappointment in front of everyone in the room, including this Columnist and rumored boyfriend Jon Avila right beside her. Furthermore, she asked us if she can keep the Manila Mail newspaper copy with Leo’s photo and take it with her.
When asked about it, Leo said he is flattered but said it ain’t gonna happen. “Kuya, can I be linked with a girl, instead?” he asked further.
Incidentally, Leo Reyes will be one of 60 models that will model about 700 collections from 50 mainstream Designers at the BayArea Fashion Week happening on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at the San Jose State University’s Barrett Ballroom at 8PM. Call (925) 389-1382 to reserve your $45 regular or $60 VIP (with sponsor gift basket) tickets.
Briefs & Shorts
‘One Kapamilya Go’ goes to Universal Studios-Hollywood this Sunday
Watch John Lloyd Cruz, Coco Martin, Lani Misalucha, Jed Madela, Mara Clara's Kathryn Bernardo & Julia Montes, Angeline Quinto, Pokwang & Pilipinas Got Talent Grand Champion Marcelino Popoy in 'One Kapamilya Go' sa Universal Studios Hollywood on Sunday, Sept 18, 2011 (choose 1 from 2 shows - 2PM & 6PM). Also join Pinoy Big Brother auditions onsite! Visit www.OneKapamilyaGo.com for more information.

Coco Martin, in the hottest news today for punching another actor, Matteo Guidicelli in the face during last week's Star Magic Ball, will be performing live at 'One Kapamilya Go' this Sunday at Universal Studios-Hollywood.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“There was never a love triangle, Maja is a very, very professional person. I’m sorry for all the troubles. I assure you that everything will be okay.” – by Cebuano actor, Matteo Guidicelli after facts were sorted out about the Star Magic Ball physical altercation with Coco Martin last weekend. He got jealous when Coco kissed now-admitted girlfriend Maja Salvador on a mall tour promo. Miscommunication led to more miscommunication, hence, the fight. And that is his public version of the story and we’re sticking to that.
This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 143 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.
Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com
- - -
Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

PAYNOR HAILS ‘POWER NG PINOY’ LAUNCH

2011-09-09T13:26:00.000-07:00

San Francisco Consul-General Marciano Paynor Jr. warmly welcomed the launch of GMA Pinoy and Prowave Media’s newest 30-minute weekly documentary program ‘Power ng Pinoy’ as a whiff of fresh air in the midst of negative news often hugging the headlines.
In the recent launching event held at the Cheryl Burke Dance Studio in Mountain View and aired live over the internet, Paynor decried that for so long now, many of the media, both in print and video, have concentrated on the negative variety of incidents referring to Filipinos as first-class criminals, mandurugas (thieves) and embezzlers that nothing was heard much from those who have been successful and helped the community.

Prowave Media Head and Power ng Pinoy Executive Producer with Pinoy TV US Marketing and Affiliate Jush Andowitt

“That was until Power ng Pinoy comes to show that we do indeed have people who can also be as successful as anyone else,” Paynor exclaimed. “Good news should also be presented so that viewers will come to know about it and Power ng Pinoy hit it right on the head.”

Asked on why he sounded so optimistic of the show that he wished it would last 15 seasons, Paynor explained that he is confident that there are many other Filipinos out there that can be tapped to be guests in the program because of their achievements and their acts of sharing back to the community.

“In the U.S. alone, there is an estimate of around 4 million Filipinos. I am sure you can find a good number of them who will embody the ideals that we know Filipinos have so that they become role models for everyone else,” Paynor added.

San Francisco Consul-General Marciano Paynor, Jr.

For his part, Prowave Media head and Power ng Pinoy’s Executive Producer Arnold Pedrigal revealed that the program had its inception last year at a parking lot in a talk with top GMA Pinoy TV US Marketing and Affiliate Jush Andowitt and that eventually led to a series of events that evolved to what would become Power ng Pinoy.

“Who would have thought that we will be here tonight celebrating the launch of this new show? To me this is a very huge personal accomplishment, of course with a lot of sacrifices,” Pedrigal asked.
Pedrigal also promised to pursue the vision to make Power ng Pinoy not to remain just yet another TV show but to make Power ng Pinoy a household word that shall be synonymous to the Filipino values of us being “Madiskarte, matiyaga, at hindi sumusuko”.

“More importantly, we always advocate the value of giving back, for success will not be truly meaningful if not shared with others,” Pedrigal maintained as he also thanked his co-producer and head writer Carol Marcelino-Hirt who is based in Chicago, his advisory team, the twenty-four featured guests, and his crew and staff led by hosts Anthony Rivero, Jessica Cabuay, Abby Borgonia, Lilwyn Lucas and Dara Bascara for making things happen.

Representing GMA Pinoy TV, Andowitt was on hand to formally welcome Power ng Pinoy to the Kapuso network.

“Yes we were the ones who started Power ng Pinoy practically in the parking lot,” Andowitt admitted. “And the guest lineup for season 1 truly best exemplifies true Power ng Pinoy in action. These men and women are not only special but also inspiring and remarkable. They are our constant reminder that we are powerful and that our power as individual could all make a difference not only to our community but to the world as well.”
Speaking on behalf of the guests, Milpitas City Mayor Joe Estevez believes that the characteristics of Filipinos, of the katangian (qualities) to be successful and outstanding different from the rest, family values, dedication, hard work, good heart, and above all, faith in God are part that what constitute Power ng Pinoy.
“Be proud of what we are, do not forget that we are Filipino in origin and bring honor and respect to the word Filipino,” Estevez exhorted his mostly Filipino audience at the end of his speech.

In welcoming the guests and participants to the launch, Cheryl Burke’s mom Sherri Burke saluted GMA and Prowave Media for coming up and launching Power ng Pinoy in her daughter’s dance studio.
She also talked about the different ways she and Cheryl gave back to the community as they raised money victims of typhoon Ondoy years ago, gathering gang members including bullies in the nearby areas to conduct dancing lessons and more recently, raising fund for earthquake victims in Japan
“Cheryl would have wanted to welcome you personally if not for the start of the season for Dancing with the Stars,” Sherri confided.

Other prominent guests who lent their precious time for the launch included Philippine Trade Commissioner Josephine Romero, Filipino Entrepreneurs Network President Earl Valencia, Comcast Marketing Executive Stephanie Martin, and Phildev Trustees Atty. Denny Roja and Catherina Buan Peterson.
Set to start airing over GMA Pinoy TV on September 18, 2011, Power ng Pinoy, will feature Filipino shakers and movers that made and continue to make a difference in the lives of Filipinos in the U.S. and in the Philippines and will also feature entertaining side stories that would strengthen and further solidify the bond of the Filipino community in general.

YAN ANG POWER NG PINOY stance by launch party guests led by TV program’s featured guests

Among those in the line-up of guests are veteran entrepreneur and venture capitalist in the Silicon Valley, California Dado Banatao, Dancing With the Stars perennial champion Cheryl Burke, the FAA-certified armless Filipina pilot Jessica Cox, Gawad Kalinga Board Member Joe Millares, the first Filipino UC Berkeley Professor Ben de Lumen, Milpitas, California City Mayor Jose Estevez and Project Runway finalist Jay Sario, among others.

Issue 34: August 24, 2011

2011-08-23T11:50:00.000-07:00

TV5’S AGA MUHLACH IN MILPITAS SATURDAY

(The ‘Pinoy Explorer’ will be travelling around the globe for his next TV show)

Aga Muhlach is TV5's "Pinoy Explorer" - coming soon this September!

TO-BE SEEN IN THE CITY

Yes, April – your favorite actor, Aga Muhlach is in town and will be ‘meeting & greeting’ his followers this Saturday, August 27, 2011 at 5:30 to 7:00PM at the Season’s Marketplace, 1535 Landess Avenue in Milpitas, CA.

As part of his latest TV show, “Pinoy Explorer” launch, he will be accompanied by key executives from TV5.

Good luck to Julius Espiritu (right), an Ilocano from Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte and is a recent nursing graduate from the World City Colleges in the Philippines, (in town with his older brother, Rowell Espiritu, RN). Julius is reviewing to take the NCLEX in late September.

The International Association of Lions Club's Esther V. Lee was installed as District Governor 2011-2012 by Dr. Wing Kun-Tam, International President 2011-2012 last Sunday, August 21, 2011 at the Hilton Hotel in Burlingame, CA.

Also, he will be meeting earlier, Top 30 high-profile community leaders at a VIP luncheon kept secret from the public that same day.
I barely have an idea on what the show is all about, so I am attending his events.
What are you waiting for April? Grab the kids and head off to Milpitas!

Singer Angel Georecha Ventura tied the knot with Trevor Buenvenida last Saturday in Fairfield. Congratulations & Best Wishes, newlyweds!

Seen dining at the very elegant Intramuros Restaurant in South SF were Sonia Delen with Tadd Gadduang (Salt Lake City's bet at the recently-concluded "So You Think You Can Dance", TV's very popular Chef Ron Bilaro, a fan & Singer Mitch Franco.

SEEN IN THE CITY

Welcome home, Paul Henry & Tom Rodriguez!
Mercator Male Model, Paul Henry, 5’8”, 23 years old of Pleasanton, CA, is back from the Philippines and already has been commissioned to model for the BAY AREA FASHION WEEK in San Jose. Paul has honed his craft having trained in Mercator in-house workshops and has appeared in several high profile television commercials in the Philippines.

San Jose's Florence Vitug Penal, center, had to undergo several painful knee surgeries but her Physical Therapists from Silver Creek Fitness and Physical Therapy - Todd Jones(right) & Carlos Rosa (left), made it all seem easy, she's one happy customer.

Sunshine Home Health's Nursing Administrator Reggie Panganiban, BSN, RN (with youngest daugther Geanna), right, celebrated her recent birthday with a bikini pool party last Saturday at her boyfriend Dr. Ricky Masiddo's new house in Brentwood. Belated Happy Birthday, Redge!

The Perkins Twins - Christian & Jesse (who recently were seen being interviewed on TV by award-winning Miss Henni Espinosa on TFC's Balitang America) with ABS-CBN's hottest leading lady, Kim Chiu) and their cousin Josh.

PBB hunk & Star Magic contract artist, Tom Rodriguez (aka Tom Mott from AZ) has sent this Columnist messages informing us of his short vacay here in the US after being busy as a bee making himself very popular in the Philippine showbiz. I have known this down-to-earth guy from Day 1 of his career and I must say he deserves every good luck that he is getting now. Very hardworking, passionate, dedicated & “marunong tumanaw ng utang na loob”…hehehe.
Welcome home – Paul Henry & Tom!

Briefs & Shorts

Angel weds Trevor
Yes, Henni – your favorite San Pablo’s resident biritera, Angel Georecha Ventura got married with Trevor Buenvenida last Saturday, August 20, 2011 at the Green Valley Community Church in Fairfield, CA. Congratulations & Best Wishes, you two!

Mercator model Paul Henry, 5'8", 23 years old & has the toned body of Piolo Pascual will be seen at the Bay Area Fashion Week also - coming 09/24/2011 8PM SJSU Barrett Ballroom. Watch it!

Welcome home, Tom Rodriguez (aka Tom Mott of Arizona)! He flew in via LAX last week (& has been in touch with this Columnist), for a brief vacation after saddled with fashion & TV shows, movies & TV commercials in the Philippines. His previous movies include 'Here Comes The Bride' & Regal Films' "Temptation Island." He is flying back to Manila first week of September.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“All my prayers and love are going to you. You are no longer in pain. You're always here, present in my mind, body, and soul. You will never be forgotten, you will never be a past memory. Always in the present. You have the best Christmas gift in the world; peace and serenity forever. Love you Lola, always.” - by BAY AREA FASHION WEEK male model Fabian ‘Ynaki’ Salazar on his Facebook. Watch him walk the ramp on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at 8PM at the Barrett Ballroom of the San Jose State University in San Jose, CA.

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 141 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com
Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

XOOM.com and Mango Tours announce special offer for Filipino remitters

2011-08-23T11:48:00.000-07:00

Seated is Julian King – Xoom SVP, Marketing and Business Development and Johnny Francisco - Mango Tours President. Standing is Freddie Yllana - Mango Tours Technology Development Head and Pia E. Palpal-latoc – Xoom Marketing Director for the Philippines

SAN FRANCISCO, CA, August 15, 2011 – Premier online money transfer company Xoom.com is excited to announce its partnership with Mango Tours, the largest Filipino travel agency in the US. First-time Xoom customers who send money to the Philippines from August 15, 2011-October 15, 2011 are entitled to a $50 credit towards any ticket or vacation package purchased through Mango Tours.

“We are thrilled to work with Xoom.com on this generous and timely offer for our kababayans ,” said Mango Tours President, Johnny P. Francisco. Filipinos who send money home to their loved ones typically go home for vacations. “This promotion addresses the need of our kababayans to save money while using the services of companies they trust”, Francisco added.
This is the second time Xoom is offering a new customer promotion this year. In May, Xoom partnered with DirecTV to offer the Pacquiao-Mosley PPV fight for free. “The success of our previous promotion and our desire to offer something new and exciting for Filipino remitters encouraged us to come up with this new offer”, according to Xoom Marketing Director for the Philippines, Pia E. Palpal-latoc. “I hope Filipinos take advantage of this and discover for themselves how convenient, fast and secure it is to send money home with Xoom.com”.

For more information on this special offer, please visit www.xoom.com/mango or www.mangotours.com/xoom. Terms and conditions apply.

About Xoom.com
Xoom.com was founded in 2001 and is now one of the biggest and most trusted money transfer companies among Filipinos in the US. Xoom offers safe and secure sending options from the convenience of your laptop, tablet PC or smart phone. Customers can access Xoom.com 24/7 and send money using their bank account, debit or credit card. Xoom is partnered with BDO, BPI, PNB, SM Malls, Cebuana Lhuillier, M. Lhuillier and Globe GCash in the Philippines. Xoom also offers money transfers to 30 other countries including India and Mexico.
About Mango Tours

Mango Tours is a full-service travel agency based in the United States and the Philippines that specializes in Asian destinations particularly the Philippines. It is a provider of quality, affordable and convenient travel services that includes reasonably-priced airline tickets, customized Philippine and International Tour Packages, Cruises, Land Transfers, and Passport and Visa Concerns. Mango Tours is able to provide its customers with a number of travel options at affordable rates because of its consolidator contracts with over 11 airlines.

Contact: Pia E. Palpal-latoc
pia.palpal-latoc@xoom.com
Juan Francisco III – Business Development Head of Mango Tours
xoompromo@mangotours.com

16th Annual Fil-Am Food and Arts Festival Sept 17th & 18th, 2011

2011-08-23T11:47:00.001-07:00

For over half a century, Daly City has been home to the largest Asian demographic in California. The Filipino Community has roots in Daly City going back over 50 years, and once a year the Filipino Community celebrates this heritage. On September 17th & 18th, 2011, we celebrate that legacy with the 16th Annual Filipino-American Food and Arts Festival (formerly the Fil-Am Friendship Festival).

“HOMECOMING” is the guiding theme of this year’s event. Throughout Northern California and Nevada, the Filipino-American Diaspora can trace its roots to Daly City. For over 50 years, Daly City has been the port of entry for hundreds-of-thousands of Filipino-Americans. This year, we are reaching out to all Daly City natives throughout the state to come back HOME to celebrate this historic occasion.

2011 is also the 100th Anniversary of the founding of Daly City, and on September 17th and 18th, Serramonte Shopping Center, and The Daly City-Quezon City Sister City Committee (DCQC), invites you to the 16th Annual Filipino-American Food and Arts Festival.

The Filipino-American Food and Arts Festival remains to be the longest running Filipino-American event in the Bay Area that is free to the public, driving high-traffic for vendors and sponsors. Previous years’ events drew crowds of thousands of people and had countless vendors over the course of the festival weekend. This event has very high traffic and is excellently covered by the major Filipino TV stations, newspaper, and online media.

The DCQC Sister Cities Committee invites you to be a part of this community celebration. Join us on Saturday and Sunday, September 17th and 18th, at Serramonte Shopping Center to celebrate the 16th Annual Filipino-American Food and Arts Festival.

For more information, follow us: http://dalycityfilamfestival.wordpress.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/DcFilAmFoodArts
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Filipino-American-Food-Arts-Festival/199384613442733

McDonald’s® Announces Commitments to Offer Improved Nutrition Choices

2011-08-03T11:39:00.000-07:00

Long-Term Plan Involves Ongoing Menu Evolution, Nutrition Awareness Communication

OAK BROOK, Ill, July 26, 2011 – Today, McDonald’s USA president Jan Fields announced the company’s “Commitments to Offer Improved Nutrition Choices.” The comprehensive plan aims to help customers — especially families and children — make nutrition-minded choices whether visiting McDonald’s or eating elsewhere.

Menu changes underway include the addition of more nutritionally-balanced choices that meet McDonald’s reputation for great taste and affordability, along with an increased focus on providing nutrition information that enable customers and employees to make simple, informed menu decisions.

“McDonald’s will always try to do the right thing, and we know we can help make a difference in our communities,” said Jan Fields, president, McDonald’s USA. “The commitments we’re announcing today will guide the future evolution of our menu and marketing.”

McDonald’s Commitments to Offer Improved Nutrition Choices include:
1. Championing children’s well-being: McDonald’s will automatically include produce or a low-fat dairy option in every Happy Meal® and promote options that meet the rigorous Council of Better Business Bureaus Food Pledge nutrition standards by Q1 2012. The impact will be an estimated 20 percent reduction in calories of the most popular Happy Meals, also reducing fat in the meal. In 2012, McDonald’s will also raise nutrition awareness among children and parents through national marketing initiatives. The company will promote nutrition messages in 100 percent of its national kids’ communications, including merchandising, advertising, digital and the Happy Meal packaging. McDonald’s will also provide funding for grass roots community nutrition awareness programs.

2. Expanding and improving nutritionally-balanced menu choices: By 2020, McDonald’s will reduce added sugars, saturated fat and calories through varied portion sizes, reformulations and innovations. Starting with the already completed 10 percent reduction in the majority of our chicken items, McDonald’s will reduce sodium an average of 15 percent across its national menu of food choices by 2015.

3. Increasing customers’ and employees’ access to nutrition information: McDonald’s will expand new in-restaurant, website and mobile communications, and marketing vehicles making access to this information even easier. To begin, McDonald’s is now making available its first mobile app so customers can access nutrition information on-the-go.

During the past two years, the McDonald’s system has significantly invested in nutritional menu innovations and communications. Examples include investing in scientific and customer research, expanded agricultural supply chain contracts, an expanded team of nutrition experts, and updating nutrition information on McDonald’s website.

“As a member of the 2010 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee, I applaud the commitments made by McDonald’s today,” said Roger Clemens, University of Southern California, Adjunct Professor of Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences. “They have captured the intent of the Guidelines and have taken a reasoned, evidence-based approach that should have a positive impact on the millions of children and adults McDonald’s serves every day.”

“I welcome and support today’s announcement by McDonald’s. These types of incremental improvements in popular meals can have a broad impact on public health,” said Adam Drewnowski, PhD, Director, University of Washington Center for Obesity Research. “Better to improve the diets of many than to seek perfection for the few.”

Actions in support of the nutrition commitments are already underway at restaurants.
Sodium Reduction: McDonald’s has already reduced sodium by 10 percent in the majority of its national chicken menu offerings – most recently Chicken McNuggets®, a Happy Meal favorite. Sodium reductions will continue across the menu in accordance with the Company’s 2015 commitments.

New Happy Meal: McDonald’s will begin rolling out the new Happy Meal in September 2011, with the goal of having them available in all 14,000 restaurants during Q1 2012. The new Happy Meal will automatically include both produce (apple slices, a quarter cup or half serving) and a new smaller size French fries (1.1 ounces) along with the choice of a Hamburger, Cheeseburger or Chicken McNuggets, and choice of beverage, including new fat-free chocolate milk and 1% low fat white milk. For those customers who prefer a side choice of apples only, two bags of apple slices will be available, upon request.

By adding fruit in every Happy Meal, McDonald’s hopes to address a challenge children face in meeting the recommended daily consumption of produce. McDonald’s has offered apples as a requested choice in Happy Meals since 2004. And, while recent research found that on average, 88 percent of McDonald’s customers are aware of the option, apples are chosen in only 11 percent of Happy Meal purchases.

“Recent research has shown that younger children are consuming more fruits and vegetables, but we still have a long way to go to increase consumption to meet daily recommendations for these important food groups,” said Elizabeth Pivonka, PhD, RD, president and CEO of Produce for Better Health Foundation. “McDonald’s announcement to include apples in every Happy Meal and being the first quick service restaurant to do so - further strengthens their seven years of support in our campaign to educate children and their parents on the benefits of fruits and vegetables.”

For many months and in some cases, years, McDonald’s has been engaging suppliers, government and non-government organizations to determine ways it could play a role in helping society address today’s obesity concerns. McDonald’s will develop additional fruit and vegetable choices and expects them to roll out over the next few years. The company will continue to evaluate new scientific research, public health statistics and customer insights and behavior to determine further nutrition adaptations to Happy Meals.

“McDonald’s agrees with leading food and nutrition experts that making incremental lifestyle modifications with food consumption may lead to improvements in an individual’s well-being,” said Cindy Goody, PhD, MBA, RD, McDonald’s senior director of nutrition. “We support parents in their effort to encourage their children to enjoy the foods that are good for them along with the foods they love.”

Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative: Since 2006, McDonald’s has supported the Council of Better Business Bureaus (“CBBB”) Children’s Food and Beverage Advertising Initiative (“CFBAI”) involving a voluntary Food Pledge to only nationally advertise products to kids that represent healthier dietary choices. McDonald’s was actively engaged in the process to help develop CBBB’s recently announced more rigorous pledge standards, which include stricter sodium and sugar criteria, zero grams artificial trans fat per labeled serving, and requirements for nutrient components to encourage.

Listening Tour: To ensure that the company’s ongoing commitments are supporting parents and communities, Fields and McDonald’s U.S. executive leadership team will embark on a national listening tour in August. They will hear directly from parents and nutrition experts about how McDonald’s can play a role in this important topic. McDonald’s will launch a new online parents’ community that provides a forum for McDonald’s and parents to more frequently engage in dialog around these important topics.

Accountability and Measurement: To evaluate McDonald’s progress and the impacts of its nutrition commitments, McDonald’s will rely on independent third-parties with expertise in children’s well-being. The company is establishing a Kids’ Food and Nutrition Advisory Board comprised of parents and experts in children’s nutrition, education and behavior to help develop effective nutrition and active lifestyle marketing messages and programming for kids. McDonald’s will also enter into an agreement with a third-party organization to collaborate on a comprehensive measurement process that sets benchmarks and annual progress against commitment goals, which will be reported publicly.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s USA, LLC, is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome foods made from quality ingredients to more than 26 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Customers can now log online for free at any of the 12,000 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter (@McDonalds) and Facebook

Community Pictures

2011-08-02T14:25:00.001-07:00

10th Anniversary of Health Professionals, Inc. The staff and personnel of Health Professionals, Inc. located at Daly City celebrated their anniversary and birthday celebration of Ray Satorre, President of HPI with a simple ceremony. In photo, (l-r) Sally Tan, Elvie Angeles, Cristina, Lorna Sindac, Mila Angeles, Connie Magat, & Joana Santos. (seated) Narie Angeles & Ray Satorre.

Tristan Braceros celebrated his 8th birthday with family and friends at Dart Ops at the Tanforan Mall in San Bruno, California. Tristan is the only son of former model Nel Braceros of Hawaii and a former Continental airlines employee. Dart Ops is the greatest place to celebrate parties for children. It's owned by Erwin and Tina Ilao.

AJ Cabrera Perez, youngest son of Antioch Carehome owner Anthony and Vangie Perez, celebrated his 5th birthday with children's party held at Small World Park at Harbor Street in Pittsburg last Saturday, July 23rd.

Julia Palma, administrator of City of Oakland Workman's Compensation Department celebrated her birthday at her Emeryville residence last July 15. In photo from L-R: Rose Asuncion, Noemi Carter, the celebrant and Clarita Odonavan.

Annabelle Guevarra, proprietress and operation manager of Pampanga's Cuisine Restaurant in San Pedro Road in Daly City and Celebrity Star Award Filipina Restaureteur of the Year, will be chair of different Filipino foods and delicacies for the 16th Annual Pistahan Parade and Festival to be held on August 13 and 14 at Yerba Buena Garden in Sa Francisco. Shown at photo with Ms. Guevarra are songbird Regine Velasquez Alcasid, Concert Queen Pops Fernandez and her cousin Nida Guevarra.

Filipino American Real Estate Professionals (FAREPA) welcomes Dept. of REAL ESTATE COMMISSIONER BARBARA BIGBY to Silicon Valley recently to meet Bay Area realtors and civic leaders. Photographed (L-R) County Commissioner Fel Amistad with DRE Commissioner Bigby and FAREPA Santa Clara Pres. Paul Stewart.

San Jose's fashionable lady Susan Navarro Pacifico celebrated her 73rd birthday with Everybody's Luncheon Party held at the Pacifico Residence at Spanish Bay Court in San Jose last Saturday, July 30. Shown at photo seated infront: Nellie Cojuangco Tuazon and Dorothy Alcantara; Standing at the back from L-R: Marc and Cora Garvida, Dante and Theresita Nieva, J.D. Charisma, Milpitas Mayor Joe Esteves, Rhuddee Vitug, the celebrant, Beauty Impresario Ferdie Villar, California State Commissioner Ray Satorre and Domi Custodio.

The 2011 to 2012 incoming officers and trustees: Left to Right: (Standing) - Chito Supena, Trustee; Ernie Florendo, Director; Isagani Pugao, P.R.O.; Xum Valerio, Board Chairman; Frank Rodino, President; Ed Bueno, Director; Ric Sitjar, Corporate Treasurer and Joseph Rigonan Jr., FASAE L.A. SoCal President. (Sitting): Jim Fernandez, Trustee, Mario Camorongan, Director; Manny Fernandez, Trustee and Jim Paredes, Director.

FASAE officers, members and 'significant others' enjoying the food, dance and the camaraderie.

Milpitas City Mayor Joe Esteves inducting the new set of FASAE officers. From left to right: Mario Camorongan, Director; Jim Paredes, Director; Xum Valerio, Board Chairman; Ed Bueno, Director; Frank Rodino, President; Ric Sitjar, Corporate Treasurer; Isagani Pugao, P.R.O.; and Ernie Florendo, Director.

Rhea Toribio Miss Philippine Hawaii and Mrs. San Jose Senior Association just arrived from her trip to Europe, a registed nurse and worked in different hospital here in United States, she owns a Sushi Bar and Restaurant in Reno Nevada.

Verizon Wireless Offers Useful Mobile Tools and an Expansive Network for the Modern Traveler

2011-08-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

Devices and Features Available to Enhance Overseas Vacation Experiences

BASKING RIDGE, N.J. – With the summer travel season in full swing, Verizon Wireless wants to advise customers about the many devices and mobile features available to help them create a stress-free travel experience overseas. Together with the nation’s largest, most reliable 3G network, Verizon Wireless offers a variety of products and services that let customers leave multiple tools such as heavy guidebooks and cameras at home in exchange for a sleek, all-in-one device that fits in the palm of their hands.

“At Verizon Wireless, we strive to continuously expand our coverage to be wherever you are,” said Elva Lima, executive director of community relations and multicultural communications for Verizon Wireless. “Not only do smartphones come with useful travel tools, they also come with mobile internet connectivity to offer on-the-go planning and access to a library of exciting mobile applications. Many of our phones also come equipped with high quality cameras that further streamline the experience.”

Many devices come pre-loaded with useful features such as maps, navigation and weather tools to ensure that users will never be lost or caught in unexpected weather conditions. A number of smartphones also allow users to download social networking applications so they can share travel updates and photos with family and friends.

For travelers going overseas, Verizon Wireless offers helpful tips for customers to take their phones and their accounts with them:

Verizon Wireless customers traveling outside of the U.S. should contact Verizon Wireless’ global customer support team at 1-800-922-0204 before embarking on their trip to ensure their phones have the right features for global usage.

Customers can make calls from any Verizon Wireless phone while visiting more than 40 countries worldwide, including popular travel destinations such as China, Hong Kong, India, Japan, South Korea, Taiwan and Vietnam that use the same CDMA network technology as Verizon Wireless.

Jetsetters with Verizon Wireless global ready smartphones with a pre-installed and active SIM card can make calls, text and use data services in more than 200 countries. More than 140countries offer 3G speeds.

Customers arriving at most overseas destinations receive a free welcome text message from Verizon Wireless with helpful information for the country they are visiting, including dialing instructions (exit codes) from that country, and the toll free number to reach Verizon Wireless Global Technical Support.

International travelers can manage roaming costs by being alerted via text message or e-mail when their Global Data Roaming charges exceed thresholds of $25, 50, and additional thresholds. Verizon Wireless Global Data Roaming Usage Alerts are automatically sent free of charge and do not count against customers’ messaging or data allowances.

Travelers can call Verizon Wireless for assistance quickly and easily 24 hours a day by dialing + 1-908-559-4899 on GSM/UMTS networks. All calls are answered by Verizon Wireless representatives.

Travelers who do not own a global-capable device can use the Global Travel Program, which allows customers temporary use of global-capable devices for the duration of their travels. Customers can keep their U.S. phone number and all global charges will be applied directly to their Verizon Wireless bills, without any daily rental fees on trips of less than 21 days.

About Verizon Wireless
Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s fastest, most advanced 4G network and largest, most reliable 3G network. The company serves 106.3 million total wireless connections, including 89.7 million retail customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 83,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

Issue 31: August 3, 2011

2011-08-02T14:13:00.000-07:00

‘One Kapamilya Go’ Goes to
Universal Studios-Hollywood!

By Bradford Adkins

TO-BE SEEN IN THE CITY
BREAKING NEWS: Fresh from the oven! Though unconfirmed, we got word from a reliable source that ABS-CBN's The Filipino Channel's 'One Kapamilya Go' goes to Universal Studios-Hollywood on Sunday, September 18, 2011.

I remember the previous ‘One Kapamilya Go’ headliners include Charice (held in Ontario, CA), Gerald Anderson, Kim Chiu, Vice Ganda, Vhong Navarro, Anne Curtis, (at the CA Great America Park in Santa Clara, CA). All of the ‘One Kapamilya Go’ shows before were huge successes in terms of audience record-breaking attendance and a large number of support from sponsors and booth exhibitors.

The San Francisco Host Lions Club members, together with the Fil-Am LC, their Leos and the Hispanic LC, conducted a Health Fair at St. Finn Barr Catholic Church at Edna St., San Francisco last July 31, 2011.

Nora Aunor, right with BFF Suzette Ranillo at the Los Angeles International airport minutes before they boarded the PAL Flight PR103 for Manila last Sunday night. Exclusive photo by Tim Evans

This year, mainstream star(s) are scheduled to perform as two shows lined-up in the historic day-long festivities at the Gibson Amphitheatre.
Book that weekend getaway destination now – and make it the Universal Studios Hollywood on 09/28/2011!
Disney’s Mulan Jr Opens In San Jose
NorCal Academy of Performing Arts presents Disney's Mulan Jr. showing on Thursday, Aug 11, 2011 6:30pm; Friday, August 12, 2011 6:30pm & Saturday, August 13, 2011 2:30pm and 6:30pm at The Point, San Jose, CA.

NorCal Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA) proudly presents Disney's Mulan Jr. This Musical Play is directed by Mei-Wan Chai Starring Adriana Andal as Mulan and Julian Pascual as Captain Shang. Since the dawn of recorded history, in every clan, in every culture - from ancient Greece to China, Egypt, the Americas and Polynesia - heroes have embarked on life-altering journeys. One of the most renowned and beloved of these "wandering heroes" is a young woman named Mulan. In Asia, the story of Mulan is as familiar as the story of Cinderella is in Western cultures. The story of this brave Chinese woman has been told for nearly two thousand years, and many believe that Mulan was a real person. Adapted from a Walt Disney feature film released in 1998, the musical has enjoyed great success. We hope that you enjoy our production and we truly feel that you will join us on Mulan's journey. With an ensemble cast and crew from various backgrounds and ages, they've spent their summer working hard dedicated to putting on a great show for all who attend.

Adriana Andal stars as Mulan & Julian Pascual as Captain Shang in NorCal Academy of Performing Arts' Disney's Mulan Jr. directed by Mei-Wan Chai to be shown at The Point in San Jose starting Thursday, Aug 11, 2011.

Please check the listing for the dates and times and other information. Call (408) 223-1888 or (408) 775-1102 to inquire about discounts for groups. Preview Night Tickets (August 11th Only) $12.00 Adult Ticket $15.00 Children's Ticket $13.00

SEEN IN THE CITY
Melai & Jason’s Movie To Be Shown in 7 US Cities 7/29 to 8/18
What does a simple girl do after being the runaway winner of the wildly popular reality show Pinoy Big Brother: Double Up? Team up with her TV sweetheart and leap from small screen success to the big one.

Starting July 29 in the U.S, the Philippines’ Comedy Princess Melai Cantiveros and her former PBB housemate and real-life love Jason Francisco can be seen dishing their unique brand of humor in the latest offering from ABS-CBN’s Star Cinema and Cine Screen: The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of the Riles. The movie will be shown this July and August in San Francisco, Union City, Milpitas, Los Angeles and San Diego, California and in Clifton and Bergenfield, New Jersey.

(L-R) San Jose's Suneera Sharma, Kerlyn Horn & Union City's Melissa Sokukawa (2010 Miss Philippines Earth-USA) are some of the female models who has to practice 700 exits in the BAY AREA FASHION WEEK - happening on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at SJSU at 8PM.

Pitted against the likes of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows 2, Transformers: Dark of the Moon and Green Lantern, The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of the Riles didn’t beat them, of course (what did you expect?). But talk about confidence and charm! It landed on the top 10 box-office drawers in the Philippines during its opening weekend last mid-July.

(L-R) San Jose's Getty Santos, Scott Embry, Hayward's Fabian Salazar & Leo Reyes, are some of the male models who has to be oriented to model/wear 40 designers' creations w/ 700 exits in the BAY AREA FASHION WEEK - happening on Saturday, September 24, 2011 at SJSU at 8PM.

A perennial record-breaking crowd-drawer, TFC's "One Kapamilya Go" goes to the Universal Studios - Hollywood on Saturday, September 18, 2011.

In The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of the Riles, Melai is Pura Buraot, kindhearted, bubbly lass who is a loving, adoptive sister to her brother, Ulam. They live in the poorest conditions, literally along the riles (railways). Her dream is to put her brother through college so he can have a better life. She takes on odd jobs, jumping from being a vendor of balut (fertilized duck egg) and tahong (mussel) to Ati-Atihan (a tribal dance in Kalibo, Aklan province) performer, and even a nun, among others.

San Jose's Community Leader & Philanthropist, Susan Pacifico celebrated her 74th birthday, with guest of honor - Milpitas Mayor Joe Estevez at her Silver Creek Country Club residence last Saturday, July 30, 2011.

Jason is Ruben Padilla, Pura’s dependable friend who is hiding his true feelings for her.

One day, Ulam needed a large sum from Pura supposedly for tuition. Knowing that not any of her odd jobs would enable her to raise that amount, Pura took a different route: when a Brazilian model goes missing, Pura – with her, uh, exotic looks – steps into her shoes and transforms into a South American model named Pureza Mayriles. Suddenly, Pura’s world changes from being surrounded by railways to ramps, savoring sudden fame and fortune.

However, trouble begins when she realizes that the Brazilian model she pretends to be actually has an issue with money launderers: the model took off with their money and jewels. And now, the center of their criminal ire is none other than Pureza Mayriles!

Will simple Pura be able to escape safely from the fantasy turned nightmare world that she got herself into? Will she still be able to support her brother? And what about knight in shining armor, Ruben – just what has he been doing?

Malai Cantiveros & Jason Francisco topbill ABS-CBN's "The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of the Riles" to be shown in 7 US Cities 09/29/2011 to 8/18/2011.

Helmed by veteran actor-writer-director Soxy Topacio, Melai and Jason are joined in the film by Bianca Manalo, Martin Del Rosario, Bekimon, Nico Antonio, Joem Bascon and Ms. Gina Pareño.

“The loveteam of Melai and Jason has gained a global following and their debut foray into film is definitely being awaited by their fans,” said ABS-CBN International Head of Theatricals Kerwin Du. “There is something about Filipinos who cheer in seeing ordinary folks rise from practically rags to riches and this couple is on its way to claiming their place in the entertainment industry. The fact that they are really funny actors help make The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of the Riles a thoroughly good film to watch with family.”

Catch Melai and Jason The Adventures of Pureza: Queen of the Riles in the following cities and dates:

July 29-August 4

LOS ANGELES
Cerritos Stadium Cinema
12761 Towne Center Drive
Cerritos, CA 90701

August 5-11

SAN DIEGO
UA Horton Plaza
475 Horton Plaza
San Diego, CA 92101
SAN FRANCISCO
UA Stonestown Twin
501 Buckingham Way
San Francisco, CA 94132

August 5-18

UNION CITY
Century 25
32100 Union Landing
Union City, CA 94587

MILPITAS
Century Great Mall
1010 Great Mall Drive
Milpitas, CA 95035
For more information, please visit www.abs-cbnglobalmovies.com.
Briefs & Shorts
Milestones
Confirmed – the one and only Superstar, Nora Aunor boarded the Philippine Airlines flight PR 103 from Los Angeles to Manila last Sunday night, July 31, 2011. She is scheduled to arrive in Manila, with Suzette Ranillo, on Tuesday, August 02, 2011 at 3:40am. The Superstar is scheduled to do a movie (with ER Ejercito’s production) & a 20-episode drama show with TV5.
Congratulations to the brand new set of officers of the San Francisco Marina-North Beach Lions Club on the occasion of their 73rd Anniversary & Installation of Officers held at the Crowne Plaza Hotel Burlingame last Saturday, July 23, 2011. This Columnist became one of the new members that night and I am very much honored to join.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"HSBC is cutting 30,000 jobs worldwide," by spokesman Patrick Humphris. Just when you thought it’s over, the economic situation gets worse as the British Banking group announced just a few days ago that it’s laying off employees around the world at a rate of 30,000 by 2013, reeling off from its subprime loans losses when it acquired Household International in 2003.

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 133 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com
Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

DOT Bullish to Promote Pinoy Homecoming Years; Duty Free Philippines and Globe Telecom Support with Balikbayan Program

2011-06-29T10:46:00.000-07:00

The Department of Tourism (DOT) is bullish to promote and support the implementation of the recently inked Proclamation No. 181 by His Excellency President Benigno Simeon Aquino III that declares the years 2011 to 2016 as the Pinoy Homecoming Years.

As the Overseas Filipino (OF) community continues to expand worldwide, the Government extends its support to the country’s “modern-day heroes.” Through Proclamation No. 181 and RA No. 6768, as amended by R.A. No. 9174, or the Balikbayan Program, OFs are given special privileges and benefits in recognition of their contributions to the growth of the economy in terms of foreign exchange inflow and remittances.
The Proclamation also aims to boost local tourism by attracting and encouraging the OF community to visit the Philippines, reunite with their families and enjoy their homeland any time of the year.

Says DOT Secretary Alberto A. Lim, “We foresee a substantial increase in tourism to the Philippines in the next five years and so on with the country’s progress more evidently seen. More developments such as hotels and resorts are happening in tourist spots all over the country, the roads are being improved and being built where there is none, and aviation has favored more travellers with affordable fares and more flights to choose from. We would like to support the President in his vision to prioritize our Filipino “kababayans” abroad upon their return and enjoy their homeland for visits. Thus, we will actively promote this proclamation.”

The Pinoy Homecoming campaign targets an increase of 25% in visitor arrivals from North America for 2011 over the 2010 figures.

The Department of Tourism is putting a high premium on Filipinos based abroad as they have steadily contributed to Philippine visitor arrivals. In 2009 alone, they made up over 22% of total arrivals. Secretary Lim said that the specific segment to target are Filipinos in North America - in Canada and the United States, as these are the two most common origin points of visiting Filipinos. The North American market ranks a high second in terms of tourism arrivals to the country, and about 60 percent of them are either Filipino-Americans/Canadians. “Focusing on these two countries will make the most impact in terms of revenues, and we intend to develop this particular market segment group,” he said.

DOT has partnered with Duty Free Philippines Corporation (DFPC) and Globe Telecom to support the said proclamation and support the department’s Balikbayan Program.
Together, DoT, DFPC and Globe Telecom are set to launch campaigns that will become the driving force to encourage OFs, especially overseas Filipino organizations and business groups, to travel to the Philippines for reunions, conferences, missions or vacations. The campaign aims to drive up tourism and appreciation for the country as well as to encourage expansion and investments and create opportunities for more Filipinos both locally and abroad.

Mr. Lorenzo C. Formoso, Chief Operating Officer of DFPC adds, “Duty Free Philippines Corporation supports the DoT and Proclamation No. 181 which seeks to show appreciation for our modern heroes who have greatly contributed to our growing economy. Through the Balikbayan Program, DFPC continues to demonstrate its commitment to boost development for the country’s tourism and to give balikbayans an efficient shopping experience with all the warmth and hospitality of home.”

The San Francisco leg of the Pinoy Homecoming and Balikbayan Plus is scheduled on Friday, July 1, 2011 at the Westin St. Francis Hotel Union Square San Francisco. A cocktail reception is arranged from 6-7pm for table top display of private sector companies and major sponsors, to be followed by a Presentation on Pinoy Homecoming and Balikbayan Plus Program from 7 to 9:00pm with Tourism Secretary Alberto Aldaba Lim giving the keynote address. Key travel trade companies, business and community leaders and media persons are invited to this event. Dinner with entertainment numbers will be held after the Secretary’s presentation.

Director Rene de los Santos of DOT San Francisco says, “the implementation of the Pinoy Homecoming and Balikbayan Plus Program is expected to bring greater awareness and interest among Filipino-Americans to revisit their homeland and avail of attractive tour packages being offered by Philippine tour operators. This promotional program is expected to expand visitor traffic to the Philippines from North America during its 6-year campaign, considering the huge source of potential visitors from United States with an estimated Fil-Am population of more than 3 million.”

The road show covering key cities of United States is participated in by tourism private sector, namely, Bellaroca Island Resort and Spa, Bluewater Resorts, CCT 168 Travel and Tours Corporation, Plantation Bay Resort & Spa, Rajah Tours, Shroff International Travel Care Inc., and TRIPS Travel. Major sponsors include Duty Free Philippines, Globe Telecom, Philippine Retirement Authority, Philippine Airlines and Western Union.

For more information on the program, contact the Philippine Tourism Office, PCG in San Francisco. It can be reached at 415.956.4060 or send email at pdotsf@aol.com, or log on to www.pinoyhomecoming.com.

Community Pictures

2011-06-08T10:34:00.000-07:00

Oakland Hills Filipina socialite Sylvia Ford, hosted a Japanese style welcome party for ABS-CBN Vice President for Entertainment Malou Santos, and Multi-award director Olive Lamasan held last Tuesday, June 1, 2011 at OSHO Japanese Restaurant in Milbrae. Shown in photo from L-R: Malou Santos, the honoree, Olivia Lamasan, movie actress Pacita Arena, Glenda Kennedy, JD, production coordinator of Star Cinema, Marcia Coulder, Vicky Garcia, and Miss Ford, the hostess of the party.

New Japanese restaurant OGON SUSHI. The perfect place to unwind, delicious food and fresh made sushi, reasonable prices and good service. Ogon is located in the city of Rodeo. They flipped this old house into a newly remodeled Sushi house. In photo the men and women behind the sushi bar L-R: The owners Efren Galang and Art Murphy, their waitresses and chef Luis.

HDI JOINS BASCO AT PITTSBURG - The Human Development International U.S.A. was invited by the Basco to join the family in giving their Uncle a surprise 50th Birthday Celebration at Pittsburg, Ca., last May 28, 2011.
HDI was comprised of Ryan Largo, Susan Largo, Ben Richard, JD Charisma and Ben Deldago of Team Pacquiao who joined the family in greeting and wishing their Uncle for more productive and fruitful years ahead. The Human Development International through the years has developed a strong family bond with the Basco aside from the fact that Dante Basco and the Basco Brothers are key endorsers of the organization’s initiated “Call to Save the Mountains of the World” that also enjoys the support of the whole family.
Ryan Largo, the HDI International Vice Chairman thanked the Basco for giving such privilege and honor to be with them during the special occasion.

Senator Leland Y. Yee, a front runner for the Mayorship of the beautiful City by the Bay San Francisco, California is shown placing a specially made small red roses lei for the Internationally known Beauty Impresario Ferdie Syquia de Villar, during the Red, White and Blue Memorial Day party celebrating his 74th birthday anniversary at the Villar Residence in South San Francisco. Looking while Senator Yee is placing the lei are: California State Commissioner Ray Benitez Satorre, and Club El Mundo proprietress Clarita (Baby) Bryam.

A long awaited reunion of brother and sister of Tess Gregorio from Kawasaki, Japan came to visit here in California USA, from left to right standing: Shoji Amano, Merly Amano and Lito Crizaldo, seated: Tess Gregorio.

TOP PINOY NURSING GRAD IN THE US- Frederic Mark Valera Balanag of Concord, CA will be graduating summa cum laude from the BS Nursing program of the CSU East Bay. Ceremonies will be held June 10th at the University campus in Hayward. He took and passed the NCLEX last month. He is the eldest son of Edward Medina Balanag of Bacnotan, La Union and Lilibeth Prado Valera of Bangued, Abra. Prior to his university education, he was a consistent scholar and recipient of the Dean’s and President’s list at the Solano Community College in Fairfield where he earned his Associate degrees in General Sciences and Liberal Arts with the Highest Honors. Prior to his immigration to the US from the Philippines in 2006, he was a full academic scholar at the Trinity University of Asia and served as SK Chairm of Barangay Sikatuna Village in Quezon City. He completed his grade and high school at the Claret School of the same city.

Issue 23: June 8, 2011

2011-06-08T10:24:00.000-07:00

GARY & MARTIN TO ROCK CACHE CREEK CASINO

(Entertainment Capital of Northern CA pays
tribute & celebrates Philippine Independence Day)

Celebrate Philippine Independence Day with Gary Valenciano & Martin Nievera at the Cache Creek Casino this Saturday, June 11th at 8PM.

Seen arriving at the Los Angeles International Airport for their Heritage Forum concert last weekend are Martin Nievera (2nd left), Gary Valenciano (3rd left), Gina Tabuena Godinez (leftmost), Angeli Valenciano (4th left) & Producer Anna Puno (rightmost). Gary & Martin will hit Cache Creek Casino next, this Saturday night. Photo by Anna Puno

For the very first time, Cache Creek Casino Resort is making use of its gigantic parking lot this summer to accommodate the huge Filipino & Fil-Am concert-going crowd expected to watch Philippine Concert Kings Gary Valenciano & Martin Nievera as they team up anew in ‘As 1 Part 2’ this coming Saturday, June 11, 2011 at 8:00pm.

Normally, Cache Creek Casino holds its Filipino concert events at their indoor Club 88, but due to huge ticket demand (almost sold-out as of press time) and the 2 performers’ track record in filling up huge venues, the management decided to hold it this time, for the very first time at their Summer Outdoor Ampitheater. The show is made possible through their continued collaboration with Ben & Edna Ramos of Edna’s Ichiban Library.

‘As 1 Part 2’ had successful performances in Toronto, Canada last May 28, Chicago, IL on June 3, Anaheim, CA on June 4 & will be in Vancouver, Canada on June 10 before it hits Cache Creek Casino this Saturday.

Congratulations to Bay Area-based Larry Lontoc who is now a full-pledged Chef having completed formal training and studies at the far away Houston Community College. He is now studying further to be a Pastry Chef, according to his direct Facebook wall message to this Columnist.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
A Celebration of Philippine Heritage: "A Coming Together"
On Sunday, June 12, 2011, Filipinos in the Bay Area will be celebrating three auspicious events; the 113th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, the 150th Anniversary of the Birth of Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, and the 50th Anniversary of the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee. Aptly themed “A Celebration of Philippine Heritage: A Coming Together,” Filipino community organizations from San Jose to Vallejo pulled their resources together to celebrate the three milestones in grand fashion.

Dennis Normandy, President of the San Francisco Civil Service Commission, and Chairman of the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee and co-emcee for the evening, said that “Aside from concelebrating three significant anniversaries- this event takes on even greater dimension in that it marks the very first time that our Filipino American community will hold a black-tie gala and formal dinner at the magnificent Rotunda of the beautiful Beaux Arts structure that is San Francisco's City Hall. The venue itself makes a statement as to the "arrival" of Filipinos and Filipino Americans within the corridors of power in this great country. “

Congen Paynor “urge the Filipino Americans today to steel their resolve and make a stand, individually and collectively, as they find their rightful place in their adopted homeland of America."

Dr. David Chee, left, & Dr. Young Kang of Pleasanton's ValleyCare Health System at the 27th Annual Golf Tournament last Friday in Livermore, CA.

Special guest of honor is Mona Pasquil, the first woman of Philippine ancestry to hold the post of Lt. Governor of the State of California. She currently is Governor Jerry Brown's Cabinet Secretary in charge of identifying, vetting and nominating persons to serve within the Brown administration.

In attendance at the gala will be Bay Area movers and shakers, Filipino American and mainstream alike, joined by public officials, members of the international Consular Corps, and Philippine industrialists who have hosted many Mayor-led cutural and trade missions of the SF-Manila Sister City Committee.

Mrs. Bella Landingin (middle) of Meridian Home Health based in Hayward, CA attended Miguel Lim's baptismal celebration in Blackhawk at Danville, CA shown here with husband Rene (left) and daughter, Kim.

SEEN IN THE CITY
Edna’s Ichiban Library turns 9
Incidentally, according to a report emailed to this column by former Piolo Pascual Manager & former ABS-CBN Writer/Director, now San Francisco-based, Noel Nuguit, “Edna’s Ichiban Library in Daly City turned 9 via an anniversary show, “In Retro” last May 28 and 30, 2011. Stage performer-host Thage Montecarlo elevated the celebration fever by mounting an eclectic mix of musical talent showdown, theatricality and a little dose of comic androgyny.
Singer-comedienne Fe Delos Reyes, in a stunning white ensemble opened the show with the theme song of Edna’s ichiban Library. Afterwards, stage-TV actress Jackie Castillejo was shown in a videotaped interview of Jesse Cabalza, one of the first few resident karaoke host-entertainers when the karaoke opened less than a decade ago. A self-confessed avid fan of Regine Velasquez, henceforth tagged as “Songbird” among the hosts, Jesse belted an inspirational song popularized by Sandy Patti titled “Light of a Million Mornings”. Jesse’s heartfelt take of the song was complemented by a very elegant emerald green gown reminiscent of Versace’s subdued line of sexy formal line of clothing.

Pleasanton ValleyCare Health System's Dr. Yen & son Blaine (3rd & 4th left) teamed up & played at the 27th Annual Golf Tournament held last Friday, June 3, 2011 at The Course At Wente Vineyards in Livermore, CA. The charitable event is for the benefit of the Pleasanton Emergency Group's ER Extension Project. Sponsored by Sunshine Home Health (represented by their Administrator Reggie Panganiban, RN & Business Development Manager, Abby Borgonia, 1st & 2nd left)

Edna's Ichiban Library &Karaoke Restaurant celebrated its 9th year of delivering world-class entertainment via a special musical show headlining the resident artists-entertainers (L-R), Thage Montecarlo, Vivorah, Jesse Cabalza, Rey Kilay Francisco, Divo Bayer, Miriam Pantig, and Angelica del carmen. Photo/text by Noel Nuguit

The torch of excitement was kept burning by theatre artist-performer Vivorah, Rey Kilay Francisco, Angelica del Carmen, and the reliable singer Miriam Pantig with a rousing number “Cell Block tango” from the Broadway play “Chicago.” Vivorah showed her agility and precision in doing this intense dance routine that you’ll forget that you’re in a comedy bar and not in a Broadway venue.

The baptism of Miguel Lim (youngest of Mary & Tracy Lim of Blackhawk in Danville, CA) last Sunday was made memorable by Miami beating Dallas during NBA finals Game 3. Miami's coach is Erik Spoelstra, the first Filipino-American Head Coach in the NBA history.

Congratulations to Christian Back, left, who recently graduated from high school at the Bellarmine College Preparatory. He will next take Business Marketing at the San Francisco State University. Christian is the youngest of Maria & Walter Back of San Jose, CA.

Then, “Emperor of Soul” Divo Bayer, garbed in a shimerring outfit wowed the audience with his hypnotic rendition of “Queen of the Night” song. Divo, who is one if not the only male singer who can whistle his high notes a la Mariah Carey would always mesmerize his Bay Area audience. Bayer’s high octane number was sustained by another strong performance of singers Angelica and the very reliable Miriam Pantig in a Beyonce medley.

Ribtickler and seasoned host-entertainerRey Kilay brought the house down with a Whitney Houston act that proved to everybody that he is not just gifted with comic timing, but has the pipes that can shame some of the performers who have been waxing CD albums using computer-enhanced technology to cover their deficient musical talent.

A breather number followed as Miriam Pantig, Angelica and Divo Bayer did an acoustic mix of Bruno Mars medley which all the pop culture enthusiasts sang along with to their delight.
Poca, in a glittering pink dressed entered the stage to serve as host of the beauty contest skit that brought the house down with

Jesse Cabalza as Miss Philippines, Vibora as Miss India and Rey
Kilay as Miss Botswana. It seemed that people have not gotten tired of this kind of beauty pageant skits that was originated by the veteran comedy bar hosts Leonard Obal and Allan K.
Bobby Solis sang the “Cabaret” song, but it somehow fizzled the high-octane energy set by his precedents. He must have picked the overused act or Liza Minelli’s version is so powerful that Solis’ version suffered in comparison.

The show’s finale was a nostalgic song number that interspersed with video clips of previous entertainers that grazed Edna’s Ichiban Library. Kudos to the concept and direction of Thage Montecarlo for upping the ante of comedy bar entertainment and it is surely a hard act to follow next year. More power to all entertainer-hosts, staff and crew of Edna’s ichiban Library and of course, business owners Ben and Edna Ramos.”

Congratulations & more power, Edna’s Ichiban, Ben & Edna Ramos!

Briefs & shorts
San Francisco Consulate Holiday Notice
The Philippine Consulate General will be closed on Monday, 20 June 2011, a holiday in observance of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, Philippine National Hero. Regular consular service hours will resume on Tuesday, 21 June 2011. For emergency cases requiring assistance from the Consulate during the holiday, please contact the Help Desk at telephone (415) 269-2090.

Congratulations to San Ramon's Richard Lao, CPA for finally getting his State of California license as a CPA having completed all the stringent experience requirements recently. He left the workforce for years to care for his ailing mother who is now in the pink of health. He just accepted a Controller position at Val Strough Auto Dealership at the Monterey Peninsula. He hopes to establish his own CPA practice in the near future. If you need a new/used Honda, Mazada, Ford, Lincoln or Subaru car, call him at (925) 389-1382.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
"No, we don’t need go nuclear. We have other alternative sources of energy – Solar, Hydro and others. We don’t need another nuclear power plant tragedy like the one recently in Japan," by Athena Mae Imperial, a UP Mass Communication student from Casiguran, Aurora who was crowned Miss Philippines Earth 2011 last Sunday in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, in response to the final question – Does the Philippines need nuclear energy?

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 125 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com
Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

JAFRA USA Launches Color Line Aimed at the Diverse World of Women's Skin Tones

2011-06-01T10:08:00.001-07:00

Deluxe color line addresses the diverse beauty needs of Asian woman

LOS ANGELES, CA — JAFRA® Cosmetics International, Inc. USA (JAFRA USA) launched the makeup professional-inspired JAFRA Color Line, the first update to the line in ten years. Touted as the ‘next generation of beauty,’ JAFRA Color features new sleek packaging, scientifically-proven formulations and fabulous shades that cater to all women including the varying range of Asian skin tones and complexions, eye color, eyelid shape as well as face structure.

JAFRA Color was launched in collaboration with celebrity makeup professionals, Sergio López-Rivera and Aliesh Pierce. An acclaimed Hollywood stylist, López-Rivera has created looks for top actresses, including Alicia Silverstone, Kerri Russell, Patricia Arquette, Kate Walsh and Christina Ricci. Pierce is a world famous makeup stylist and skin specialist whose elite client list includes Vanessa Williams, Queen Latifah, and the Obamas. Pierce played a key role in the development of the diverse array of foundation shades to suit a global palette.

“With the launch of JAFRA Color, we wanted to create and provide more choices for all women including the wide-ranging Asian community,” said Connie Tang, President of JAFRA USA. “We use cutting edge science with the best nature has to offer, so we can deliver products that help women and men look good and earn additional income at the same time.”

JAFRA Color’s new formulas have been designed to offer consumers perceivable benefits through nature’s best ingredients in combination with JAFRA’s competencies in skin care. For instance, infused with botanicals and Vitamins C and E, the Full Coverage Lipstick combines brilliant color, a velvety finish, and long-wear for 8 hours. The new Lash Maximizing Mascara dramatically volumizes, lengthens and curls with a patented cotton extract, Vitamins B5 and E.
Other products include 7 new triple-milled eyeshadow trios, 3 new blush shades, and 10 new nail lacquer shades. The Automatic Eyeliner, Brow Pencil and Eye Pencil have been newly reformulated to ensure ease of application and wear. Highlighting darker skin tones, the color line features a new Cream Concealer in Deep and Always Color Stay-On Makeup SPF 10 in 3 new shades for darker complexions.

“The jewel of the darker skin tone assortment is the new makeup artist inspired Dark Imperfection Corrector, which is a moisturizing concealer that corrects discoloration and hyper-pigmentation,” said Leah Cadavona, director of marketing for JAFRA USA. “This particular product helps address needs of women with darker skin tones, which is a much needed addition given today’s ever increasing multicultural society,” Cadavona said.

For over 50 years, JAFRA Cosmetics has been transforming lives with innovative and quality skin care products and exceptional career opportunities. Tang shares that “In the United States, Asians have a long tradition of entrepreneurship. We have seen the significant impact of Asian-American entrepreneurs in the economies of local communities and the country at large. At JAFRA, we also want to help provide additional opportunities for the Asian consumer to earn more income and/or explore a new career path as home-based business owners through our direct selling and consulting program.”

JAFRA successfully created its most contemporary color line in collaboration with HIRST PACIFIC LTD, a branding and design consultancy based in New York, New York. Reflecting a balance between science and nature, the new color line has a look that is fresh and timeless. Each custom-made package has a curvilinear yet symmetrical design that mimics nature. The color palates of silver and white, both found in science and nature, were chosen to create an association with JAFRA’s advanced technologies.

Created for women across generations and cultures, JAFRA Color is a spectacular and luxurious color line with global appeal.

ABOUT JAFRA Cosmetics International, Inc.
JAFRA Cosmetics was founded in Malibu, California in 1956 by Jan and Frank Day with the vision of providing women with world-class products and business opportunities. In 2004, the privately-held JAFRA joined the Vorwerk Group, a German-based, multi-billion dollar international direct sales company, represented in over 60 countries worldwide.

JAFRA’s 550,000 worldwide Independent Consultants make it one of the world’s largest producers of cosmetics today. With annual sales in excess of half a billion U.S. dollars, JAFRA has a worldwide product portfolio that encompasses skin and body care as well as spa products, color cosmetics and fragrances, which JAFRA produces using only high-quality natural ingredients and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities. JAFRA products are manufactured using a brand new $30 million manufacturing facility, which came on-line in Queretaro, Mexico in early 2010. JAFRA products are sold globally in 18 countries including Latin America, North America, Europe and now Asia. For more information, please visit www.jafrausa.com.

“New Yorker in Tondo”- A Play that Transcends Who We Are

2011-06-01T10:01:00.000-07:00

The Cast of "New Yorker in Tondo"

By Fel Anthony Amistad,

The Palanca-award winning play, “New Yorker in Tondo,” written by Marecelino Agana, Jr. was recently staged at the Serramonte Del Rey School Theatre in Daly City under the direction of Jackie Castillejo-Guingona. It is a comedy for everyone because it delivers more value and meaning by transcending the belief that one can take oneself out of the Philippines, but the Philippines cannot be taken out of oneself. One of the more popular Filipino comedy plays, this fantastic version is about Kikay who ia a balikbayan or a newly arrived from New York. Forgetting her roots, Kikay played by Richgail Enriquez appears to forget her true love of Tondo and her previous self when she displayed the acquired style, manner, and culture of New York. Kikay’s values have changed as her mom and friends have noticed her distinct persona. This protagonist tries to get back to being Kikay of Tondo that all her family and friends knew. This comedy play slightly differed from previous versions in that a few popular songs were introduced adding multi-dimensional appeal.

The actors were great in their portrayal of the main characters. Jackie Castillejo-Guingona played Nena, the childhood friend of Kikay who showed her irritation and resentment of the New Yorkish Kikay by imitating her ways in comedic relief. Aling Atang, the mother of Kikay, was portrayed by Cris Gosalvez who carried out her disdain of her daughter’s New Yorkish transformation and tried to convey her feelings and conversations in funny broken English, or Taglish.

Tony, Kikay’s childhood sweetheart, portrayed by Lee Robin Salazar is charming and had a central dramatic pull in the play. Tony visited Kikay to catch up on old stories and the past. However, the plot becomes interesting when his secret engagement to Nena, Kikay’s childhood friend, creates the tense comedic and dramatic scenes that highlight the play. Both English and Tagalog were used perfectly throughout the play to emphasize the dialogue and acting. Another amazing and funny character, Totoy, played by Joji Isla, also known as the Tondo “canto boy, ” is the secret love of Nena. Totoy’s love was revealed when the two female lead roles had a clash. His comedic acting was impressive as the delivery and acting were punctuated by unforgettable grimaces and looks. The audience reacted to every scene with glee and joy.

At the end of this play, the secret love of the characters was revealed with Kikay back to her old self, a simple and kind person who displayed the Alice-like transformation (Wizard of Oz) and love of Tondo culture and values. This is a play that should be seen by everyone, born and raised here in America or in the Philippines. Its acting and fantastic sets were well designed and the script and direction under Jackie Castillejo-Guingona was well executed. With the central meaning of this play, no one will forget what it means to come home again and relive great memories and reconnect with family and friends. This New Yorker in Tondo play should not be missed. It is produced by L3 Dream Productions. Tickets are available by contacting jaxsee@yahoo.com

Community Pictures

2011-06-01T09:58:00.000-07:00

Art Murphy and Efren Galang, owners of Ogon Sushi. Photo taken during their grand opening at their new branch in Rodeo, CA.

U.S. VA MEDICAL CENTER Livermore Nurses Rock!!! - From left to right (Front Row) Larry Lontoc, Esmie Javier, Vilma Camaclang, Angelica Lopez, (Standing) Marilyn Ganancial, Nenita Ibarrientos, Naty Martinez, Leah Chitwood, Regie Nastor

Joanna Paula B. del Mundo of Fremont, CA graduated Summa Cum Laude with the degree BS Nursing from CSU East Bay in Hayward, CA. She passed the NCLEX-RN exam, last May 20, 2011. She is the newest Registered Nurse in the del Mundo family. From left to right: Rose (mother), Joanna, and Ed (father)

A successful widows retreat was held last May 14 &15, 2011 at the residence of Angelica Virola in 438 Glen Drive, Richmond California. Shown in the picture are the candidates and servants of the widows retreat with the International HOLD coordinator Didi Galsim from the Philippines. Photo shows on the first row are Sister Clara, Araceli & Lorraine. Sister Didi Inday, Didi Galsim, Remy & Belen. (2nd row) Sister Sonia, Orlie, Norma, Lulu, Tessie, Lerma, Persie & Marivic. Not in the picture were Sister Angelica, Juliet & Irene.

BROTHERHOOD Golf Club who recently participated in last PAL Interclub Golf Tournament in Cagayan De Oro, Philippines will hold its summer Golf Tournament on June 18, 2011 at Skywest Golf Course in Hayward. Photo from L-R: Tony Berdal, Greg Gayag, Conrad Estrella, Jim Berdal, Arnie Santos, Cesar Servanta, Vince Contreras, Bob Munoz, Gil Rivera. Seated from L-R: Phil Imperial, Max Berdal, Ric Reyes, Rico Nagnit-Club President, Rollie Eda, Tony Paclebar-Team Coordinator. Not in photo: Ted Galo, Estoy Estrada, Rolly Santos, Diony Gutierrez and Pio Torneros.

The Knights of Columbus California State Jurisdiction recently celebrated 109th Annual State Convention held at the Town & Country Resort Hotel in San Diego, CA. Photo from L - R: District Master Romeo D. Quevedo, District Deputy Bradley M. Roxas, Past State Deputy Vincent A. Pacis and Supreme Master Dennis J. Stoddard.

Myoosikel, Musical Concert for a Cause - June 04, 2011, Saturday at the Corpus Christi Church 62 Santa Rosa Ave., SF, CA. Schedule: Matinee – 1:30 pm | Gala – 7:00 pm. Myoozikel (Excerpt from Broadway and International Songs) is appropriate for all ages. For tickets and info; call (415) 368-8740 to benefit the Corpus Christi Youth Ministry.

Issue 22: June 1, 2011

2011-06-01T09:36:00.000-07:00

WHO CAN STOP Ai-Ai?
(Walnut Creek’s Artist Magic Entertainment’s maiden presentation promises non-stop laughter)

Comedy Concert Queen Ai-Ai de las Alas is "UNSTOPPABLE" in Reno.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

After a long absence in the US, Ai-ai De Las Alas (together with the Concert Queen of the Philippines, Pops Fernandez) will be seen LIVE on July 3rd at the Grand Theater of the Grand Sierra Resort Casino in Reno, Nevada. Aptly entitled "UNSTOPPABLE", her newest show promises non-stop laughter and pure family entertainment.

Ai-ai de las Alas has done it all. She has shaped the industry with her uncanny ability to make people laugh and different style of comedy. She has delivered when it counts. Often imitated but never duplicated – that’s how followers describe her simply. Ai-Ai, the Comedy Queen of the Philippines has all but nothing to prove. The most recent Best Actress winner in the 37th MMFF has been the subject of limelight in all aspects of the industry. Still, she remains complacent and unmoved by any of these.

ABS-CBN movie stars Angel Locsin, middle, & Jake Cuenca, right with director Cathy Garcia-Molina, left at the San Francisco premiere of their latest film, "In The Name of Love" at the Fox Theater in Redwood City last Sunday night. Did you know that Box-office Director Cathy is supposed to helm the late AJ Perez in the Mara Clara stars' launching movie with Kathryn Bernardo, Julia Montes & Albie Casino?

Attorney Kenneth R Graham & his Filipina Business Partner, Ms. Pia Gutierrez of ARTIST MAGIC ENTERTAINMENT present Ai-Ai de las Alas (with Concert Queen, Pops Fernandez) in "UNSTOPPABLE" at the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, NV.

"UNSTOPPABLE,” is the initial offering of Artist Magic Entertainment and The Law Offices of Kenneth Graham (who specializes in immigration, lawyer-assisted mortgage & IRS debt representation, etc), in cooperation with the Grand Sierra Resort Casino, Little 22 Ban Quality Foods and Paradise Hills Home Care. For more info, please visit Artist Magic's website at www.ame365.com or Grand Sierra's website at www.grandsierraresort.com.

Incidentally, The Law Offices of Kenneth Graham is located at 1575 Treat Boulevard, Suite 105, Walnut Creek, CA 94598. For more info please visit: www.elaws.com

SEEN IN THE CITY
Worthy is the Lamb

Crossroads Christian Center (CCC) in Daly City presented a very anointed passion play, "Worthy is the Lamb" last Resurrection Sunday. This is the second annual tradition of love at CCC. Many people were blessed to see the heart-stirring play written and directed by Kristoffer Earl Dizon. The role of Jesus was portrayed by Armando Vanegas.

Milpitas Mayor Joe Estevez, middle, graced the Santacruzan at the 1st year anniversary of Seasons Marketplace at Landess, shown here with Hair & Make Up Artists, Christine Paul, left & Arlene Coleman, right.

The production was a diligent collaboration of different ministries in the church. The play showed various scenes in the life of Jesus - His ministry, compassion for children and all kinds of people, awesome miracles, sufferings on the Cross, resurrection and His triumphant return. There were moments of great awe especially during the passion scenes of Jesus' suffering and crucifixion as the audience could see and feel the lash of the whip and the sound of the nails being hammered to our Savior's hands and feet. It brought tears in the eyes of many as people came to realize how much pain Jesus had to bear because of His great love for all of us.

What do you do after winning Fox's American Idol, only the most-watched reality-based TV show on earth these days? North Carolina's Scotty McCreery goes to Disneyland & celebrates with Mickey & Minnie Mouse in Orlando, FL. Photo by Startracks/Rex Features/Daily Mail UK

TFC's Barangay USA's Angelo Barga entertains a sizable crowd with Immigration Lawyer Lou Tancinco during last Saturday's 1st year anniversary of Seasons Marketplace Landess in Milpitas.

The play showed the glorious resurrection of our Lord who appeared to Mary and the disciples who were overwhelmed with joy. It culminated in the triumphant return of Jesus as the King of kings and Lord of lords. With the background song, "Worthy is the Lamb," it was so touching to end the play in a scene in heaven when the angels andevery creature will one day crown the Lamb upon the throne with many crowns.What a blessed hope for all those who have put their trust in Jesus as their Lordand personal Savior! We will all fall down and worship Jesus, the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world.

The De La Salle Alumni Association (DLSAA) of NorCal Board of Directors and Organizing Team preparing for their Centennial celebration - La Sallians all, Cha Lui Pio-Vistan, Sigrid Gener, Mitos Briones, Buck Zamora, Dawn Zamora-Alido, Ronald Martinez, Rich Gella, Ryan Madrid, Anthony Zara, Joey Garcia, Jacque Cuenca, Jerome Chua and Michelle Alba-Chua.

Briefs & shorts La Salle’s 100th Year

Ms. Jennifer Mandanas Dizon, Vice President, Premier Relationship Manager of HSBC Premier USA, HSC Premier Direct - San Francisco, CA announced through a personal email to this Columnist, that the La Salle system is celebrating its 100th year this year. The De La Salle Alumni Association is holding a series of Board of Directors planning meetings to prepare for the year-long event of La Salle's centennial. So, stay tuned.

Congratulations to Kervin Paul Masiddo, center, of Brentwood who graduated with an Associate of Science Degree in Biology at the Los Medanos College in Pittsburg with an Honor Scholar Medal (the highest and most prestigious school recognition). He will pursue further degree studies at UC Davis taking up Cellular Biology this coming Fall semester.

Romy Benipayo, middle, celebrated his 80th birthday recently with his very famous Journalist wife, The Charito Benipayo, right and Leo Reyes, left, of San Jose.

Justin Bieber in Saratoga

I wasn’t even aware a bit until Girlee Mendiola of San Jose sent me a Facebook message looking for Justin Bieber (yes, that bratty Canadian teener who tries to sing and who was recently in the news for manhandling autograph-seekers all over Asia, including the Philippines) ‘College Track Benefit 2011’ concert tickets happening at the Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA on Saturday, 08:30 PM, Jun 11, 2011. I tried looking online and available tickets are priced at $1,500.00 a piece. Whoa!

Dr. Ron Quibilan & wife Mila of Stevens Creek Country Club in San Jose are proud parents of newly-grad eldest daughter, Khristine Quibilan (not pictured) who finished with a Master's Degree Program in Marriage & Family Therapy from the University of San Francisco. Congratulations, one down, two more to go!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"I won’t say goodbye. I’ll just say, until we meet again," by Oprah Winfrey thus ending her reign last week as Queen of Talk by hosting “The Oprah Winfrey Show” every Wednesday for the last 25 years. Oprah is the ultimate hosting idol of well-known Philippine celebrity hosts like Boy Abunda, Kris Aquino, Sharon Cuneta, among others.

The AGOOENIANS of America Inc. Chairman of the Board of Directors, Arthur Estoesta, left, held a well-attended 40th day prayers for Mr. Ben Singayan last Sunday, May 29, 2011 (shown here with son Arnel Estoesta who coordinated the biggest buffet I have ever seen organized in a private residence. Abundant food lined up starting from the foyer up to the four corners of the kitchen and overflowing down to the infinity pool of their hillside-situated palatial residence in San Jose; whew!).

What brings 2007 Mrs. Republic of the Philippines-USA Marilen Bernardo, right, (a Molecular Cellular Development Biology graduate from the University of California, a medical representative of Novartis San Francisco and sister of San Mateo County's Harbor Commissioner Robert Bernardo) together with Roberta Tomaselli Silva of Cross Roads Home Health & Hospice at Daly City? Just pure fun with air of elegance & good food at the Barracuda Japanese Restaurant Serramonte Mall. Try & you'll like it, too!

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 125 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

McCafé launched the new frozen strawberry lemonade.

2011-05-25T09:23:00.000-07:00

Today, customers can visit McDonald’s restaurants across the country to experience the newest blended ice beverage on the McCafé menu - Frozen Strawberry Lemonade. McCafé Frozen Strawberry Lemonade is a unique twist on an old favorite, combining tart frozen lemonade with sweet strawberry syrup swirl.

This new menu innovation is available in small (12 oz.), medium (16 oz.) and large (22 oz.) sizes, and features a taste profile unlike other products currently on the McDonald’s menu, coupling together two of America’s favorite flavors – strawberry and lemon.
For more information about McCafé Frozen Strawberry Lemonade visit www.mcdonalds.com/lemonade.

About McDonald’s
McDonald’s USA, LLC, is the leading foodservice provider in the United States serving a variety of wholesome food made from quality ingredients to more than 26 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by local business men and women. Customers can now log online for free at any of the 11,500 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter (@McDonalds) and @McCafeyourday) and Facebook (Facebook.com/McDonalds) for updates on our business, promotions and products.

Edna's Ichiban Library turns 9

2011-05-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

For the past 8 years, Edna’s Ichiban Library has been the home of multi –talented performers entertaining our “ kababayans” through music, comedy and various special events. It has also satisfied the palettes of its patrons with good food and excellent customer service.

On May 27 and 29, Edna’s Ichiban celebrates its 9th Anniversary with a show entitled “In Retrospect”. This show features Ichiban’s pool of talents which includes Divo Bayer, Miriam Pantig, Angelica, Jesse, Rey Kilay, Vivorah and Poca. This will also showcase the directorial concept of one of Ichiban’s performers, Thage Montecarlo. An alumni of the Philippine Education Theater Association also known as PETA, Thage aims to elevate Ichiban’s entertainment to a “higher level” through this show. His directorial debut of Ichiban Idol-The Finale, a singing contest held at Cache Creek Club 88 in Brooks California hailed positive revues from critics all over the Bay Area.

Special guests include Miss Jackie Castillejo-Guingona, Miss Fe de los Reyes and Ichiban Idol Champion Ellona Santiago.

With the creative contribution of respected actress and director Suzette Ranillo, In Retrospect promises to showcase Ichiban’s performers’ diversified versatility and inventiveness. For inquiries and reservations please contact Edna’s Ichiban at 2236 Westborough Boulevard, South San Francisco CA, 94080.

VISIT OF AMBASSADOR CUISIA TO SAN FRANCISCO

2011-05-24T10:53:00.000-07:00

San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee with Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. at the City Hall. Also in the photo are Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr., Board of Supervisors President David Chiu, Board Member Hydra Mendoza of the San Francisco Unified School District, Commissioner Dennis Normandy of the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee, and Ms. Lisa Ang of the Office of the Mayor of San Francisco.

Netsuite representative James Dantow receiving a certificate of appreciation from Ambassador Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. during the welcome reception at Mark Hopkins Intercontinental Hotel.

San Francisco, California – Philippine Ambassador to the United States Jose L. Cuisia, Jr. made an official visit to San Francisco on 12-13 May 2011 to meet with city government officials, business executives, Filipino American community leaders and youth representatives, as well as attend the turnover ceremony of the USCGC Hamilton to the Philippine Navy in Alameda. The visit of Ambassador Cuisia is his first to the Bay Area and outside of Washington DC.

Upon his arrival on 12 May, Ambassador Cuisia together with Consul General Marciano A. Paynor, Jr. and Trade Commissioner Josephine Romero motored to Silicon Valley, where they were given a site tour and briefing on the Plug and Play Tech Center. Later, they met with members of the Science and Technology Advisory Council-Silicon Valley (STAC-SV) to discuss the group’s priority projects with the Philippine Government.

At the Mark Hopkins Intercontinental Hotel in the evening, Ambassador Cuisia was formally welcomed by the Filipino American Community. The reception which was organized by the Philippine Consulate General was attended by more than 200 guests, including San Francisco Board of Supervisors President David Chiu, California State Senator Leland Yee, and a number of elected and appointed Filipino American officials. A presentation on the SAVE Our Industries Act prepared by Trade Commissioner Josephine Romero preceded the main program, where Ambassador Cuisia talked to the community and discussed, among others, the role they can play in advancing the country’s interests. One of the highlights of the program was the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the groups and individuals who helped in the promotion of the SAVE Act, like Netsuite which sponsored the software for the proposed bill’s viral campaign and the Filipino American youth members who served as volunteers in this effort.

The following day, 13 May, Ambassador Cuisia met with San Francisco Mayor Edwin Lee and Board of Supervisors President David Chiu at City Hall. The Ambassador was accompanied to the meeting by Consul General Paynor. Ambassador Cuisia and the city executives discussed the contributions made by Filipino Americans to the political, economic, and social growth of the City and County of San Francisco. They also agreed to undertake more exchanges in the fields of trade, business, education and culture. Later, a reception was hosted for Ambassador Cuisia by Board of Supervisors President David Chiu inside his office in City Hall. The reception was attended by Filipino American city government officials as well as members of the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee.

Following his meetings at City Hall, Ambassador Cuisia proceeded to Alameda, where he attended the turnover ceremony of the USCGC Hamilton to the Philippine Navy. The vessel was acquired by the Philippine Government under the Foreign Sales military program of the U.S. Government and will be used for search and rescue operations and protection of the country’s maritime areas and exclusive economic zone. The transfer documents were signed by Ambassador Cuisia and Vice Admiral Manson K. Brown, Commander of the Pacific Area and Coast Guard Defense West of the United States Coast Guard.

Ambassador Cuisia concluded his successful visit to San Francisco by meeting with Filipino American youth representatives, who are working as executives in firms such as Genentech, Electronic Arts, CISCO, Facebook, PG&E, Google, Nvidia and representing organizations like PICPA-USA, Young Filipino Professionals Association, KAYA Filipino Americans for Progress, Filipino Entrepreneurs Network (FEN), and the SF Fil-Am Chamber of Commerce. As the youth leaders are third and fourth generation Filipino Americans, Ambassador Cuisia encouraged them to give something back to the Philippines by utilizing their entrepreneurial and technical skills in support of the country’s development. To continually engage the younger generation of Filipino American business professionals, Ambassador Cuisia agreed to their suggestion to hold regular monthly meetings at the Philippine Center in San Francisco, where a lounge will be reserved for them for this purpose.

Community Pictures

2011-05-24T10:27:00.000-07:00

Going Away Party Richard Hudson, VA Hospital, Livermore. Fr.Left to Right Richard Hudson, Monching Mendoza, Maria Carena (Site Manager), Georgia Giouzelis, Barbara Forbes (Supervisor), Larry Lontoc, Zaldy Almacen, Nicole Haggins

Belle Santos (4th from the left) was recently honored as the 7th District Assembly Woman of the Year for 2011 at the California State Capitol. She is the daughter of Raphael G. and Ester Santos of Vallejo CA, Owners of Raphael Catering.

Consuelo Fontillas celebrated her 88th birthday in San Francisco with family and friends. L-R standing; Lito Crizaldo, Riz Castro, Shoji Amano(from Japan) and Joan Fontillas. L-R sitting: Rosabelle Ferrer, Merly Amano (from Japan), Shirley Castro, Tess Gregorio, the celebrant Consuelo Fontillas and her son Victor Fontillas.

40th Wedding Anniversary - Elly & Norma Valle Celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary at the Embassy Suites last April 30th. Several friends and families graced the affair. In this photo are the following seated from left to right: Dr. Filoteo Alano & wife Flory & Lani San Gabriel. Standing from left to right: Erlinda Kloulubak, Marites Famacion, Elly & Norma Valle (the celebrants) Ramon San Gabriel and daughter Iliana.

Members of the De La Salle Alumni Association welcomed the Philippine Ambassador to the United States for his first official visit in San Francisco last May 12th, 2011 at the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins SF. (From L-R) Manolo Relova, Tom Umali, Philippine Ambassador Jose Cuisia, Irvin Sevilla, Manny Noguera and Vic Santos behind.

Issue 21: May 25, 2011

2011-05-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

THE MANHATTAN CONNECTION,
THE SONGS OF JOSE MARI CHAN
(Multi-awarded Grammy artist, Janis Siegel of The Manhattan Transfer produces Filipino Songwriter’s latest Album, recorded in New York by America’s Jazz & Pop Artists)

SEEN IN THE CITY

Jose Mari Chan is one of the best selling singers/songwriters in the Philippines, having achieved 3 Diamond Record Awards in record sales. To-date, that is a record unprecedented in our country. Personally, I grew up listening to his songs, whose music is as soft and mellow as his speaking voice. Looking back, the melody of “Constant Change” never left my mind from early in the morning commute to school up to the time in bed listening to my FM radio station. His music appeal even reached foreign ears like in Indonesia where his songs are played all day long in the malls.

Jose Mari Chan's "Constant Change" and other songs were recorded in New York City by American Artists, produced by The Manhattan Transfer's Janis Siegel. Now available on iTunes & Starbucks!

Cover of New York-recorded CD album, The Manhattan Connection, The Songs of Jose Mari Chan, featuring Chan's biggest hits in the Philippines -Constant Change, Thank You Love, Love Lost, I've Found My World In You, A Heart's Journey, Like Night and Day, So I'll Go, Spellbound, among others.

Janis Siegel, the 9-time Grammy winning solo artist and founding member of The Manhatan Transfer has just produced famous Filipino composer/songwriter Jose Mari Chan's CD Album in New York

Now, for the first time, a fitting tribute to the greatness of Jose Mari Chan by a group of American Jazz & Pop artists who recorded his songs in New York City, are compiled in a 12-track Album produced by no less than Janis Siegel (the 9-time Grammy winning solo artist and founding member of The Manhatan Transfer). The music was arranged by widely-recognized musician, Yaron Gershovsky.

The songs in the album include “Constant Change” and “Stay, My Love” performed by Nic Bearde; “Like Night & Day” performed by Roger Treece and Lauren Kinhan; “Thank You, Love” performed by Julie Hardy; “I Have Found My World In You” and “Easier Said Than Done” performed by Kellylee Evans; “A Heart’s Journey” performed by Leo Sidran; “Love Lost” performed by Lisa Fischer; “Walking In The Moonlight” performed by Theo Bleckmann with a cappella intro by Janis Siegel and Laurel Massé; “So I’ll Go” performed by Laurel Massé, Janis Siegel, and Lauren Kinhan; and “Spellbound” performed by Miles Griffith.

Seen at the recent Agooenians of America, Inc. Induction of Officers Ball in San Jose's Crowne Plaza Hotel (STANDING L-R) Bradford Adkins, Olivia T. Ronquillo, Romeo E. Ronquillo (President, Agooenians of America, Inc.), Jocelyn Tabora, Mayor Joe Esteves, Prudy Valdez. (SEATED L-R): Atty. Rudy Rivera, Consul Alfonso Ver, Dr. Gene Balbuena, Dr. Trining Balbuena.

This album released May 1, 2011 is such a huge landmark in Philippine music industry. I just purchased it through iTunes on my iPhone; it’s that easy. It can also be purchased at Starbucks and online at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/josemarichan1

Now making waves in the acting department, Louise Abuel, 7, pits talent against Xyriel Manabat in ABS-CBN's latest teleserye, "100 Days to Heaven". During shooting, he imagines his grandma leaving him for the US to motivate him to cry. Owww...:(

Philippine Consul General Marciano Paynor, Jr.s (being interviewed by ABS-CBN's Balitang America's Henni Espinosa) will grace the 1st Year Anniversary celebration of Seasons MarketPlace at Landess this Saturday.

Incidentally, people in the Philippines can catch up and listen to the great musician Jose Mari Chan at the SMX Convention Center Function Hall 5 at his latest show called “It's Complicated: A Valentine Concert in July” to be held on? 07.23.2011. He will perform with Armed and Ready - The sensational five, The CompanY. Get your tickets now at SM Tickets (632) 470-22-22 or call (632) 753-1609 for limited VIP seats!

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY
Seasons MarketPlace Anniversary

The Seasons MarketPlace at Landess Avenue in Milpitas, CA is celebrating its First Year Anniversary on Saturday, May 28, 2011 at 1:00pm. A Santa Cruzan and Flores De Mayo Parade will take place with Special Guests Mayor and Mrs. Jose Esteves and Philippine Consul General Marciano Paynor, Jr.

The ABS CBN Foundation International’s flagship program, Bantay Bata (Child Watch), caravanned through California with stops at Redwood City, Vallejo, Los Angeles and two Southern California hospitals. Photo shows the e mployees of Pacific Health Corporation at Bellflower Medical who joined Tina Monzon-Palma, Bantay Bata Executive Director, Journalist and Philanthropist.

It's reported online that Manny Pacquiao will fight next, Mexican rival, Juan Manuel Marquez on November 12, 2011 probably in Vegas (shown here with San Jose's Agnes Aguirre during his post-fight Thanksgiving & Victory Mass at the Mandalay Bay Las Vegas).

Food merchants will have booths on the West Parking Lot and will offer food tasting.

The program, which will start at 1:00pm will include:
A historical primer on “What is Santa Cruzan & Flores de Mayo?”
Opening Prayer by Father Andy Ligot
Introduction of Hermano and Hermana
Start of Procession
Welcome Message by Milpitas Mayor Joe Estevez
Opening Remarks by Philippine Consul General Marciano Paynor, Jr.
Flower Dance by Kawayan Folk Arts
Fashion Parade of the Sagalas
Coronation of Reina Elena & Blessed Mary
For more information, please contact Gabrielle Ramos, Merchant Relations and Marketing Support of Seasons MarketPlace at Landess, 1535 Landess Avenue, Milpitas, CA 95035, Tel: (408) 586-9800 Fax: (408) 586-9899

Personals
Introducing..Louise Abuel in “100 Days To Heaven”

ABS-CBN starts them young as they introduce in their latest teleserye hitting the TV screens these days, “100 Days To Heaven” featuring opposite Xyriel Manabat, their 7-year old newest find, Louise Abuel. At a tender age, Louise is a veteran of high-profile TV commercials in the Philippines, appearing in Meralco, Lucky Me Noodles, Globe Telecom, and Purefoods Tender Juicy Hotdog with John Lloyd Cruz, among others. He has roots in the City of Daly City. Already, people are noticing his knack for natural acting and when his Daly City grandma asked where he gets all the emotion, especially in the dramatic scenes, he says “ini-imagine ko lang po ung iniwan niyo po ako nung pumunta kayo sa US”. Loosely translated, he imagines his grandma leaving him behind when she flew to the US, whenever he is asked to cry in a scene.

Philippine Consul General Marciano Paynor, Jr. (being interviewed here by ABS-CBN's Balitang America's Henni Espinosa) will grace the Seasons MarketPlace at Landess anniversary this Saturday.

Angel Sagmit celebrated her 3rd birthday with a grand celebration of Capampangan food, drinks, pinata, giant jumper playhouse with a slide, etc at their house in San Jose last Saturday, shown here with parents Rolan & Mina & brother, AJ .

Philippine Independence Day at The San Francisco City Hall

The Philippine Consulate General in San Francisco, the Bay Area Filipino American Community and the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee all collaborate to commemorate the 113th Anniversary of Philippine Independence, the 150th Anniversary of the Birth of National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal and the 50th Anniversary of the Founding of the San Francisco-Manila Sister City Committee at a GALA EVENING on Sunday, June 12, 2011 at 6:00 p.m. at The Rotunda of the San Francisco City Hall located at 1 Dr. Carlton B. Goodlett Place, Civic Center, San Francisco. Cocktail Reception at The North Light Court follows at 7:00 p.m, then the $100 per plate Dinner and a Program. Due to the venue’s capacity, limited number of guests were sent personal invites and are encouraged to wear formal gowns & tuxedos. This Columnist is honored to be invited and will attend this celebration.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Honestly, I have no files for it. I called the U.S. and asked to look for more files. It's not here. It's like a deed of sale," by Southern Philippines businessman Lynard Allan Bigcas who has admitted that he has no deed of sale for the motorcycle of Hollywood Scriptwriter Skip Woods’ $80,000 motorcycle, a Martin Brothers Harley Davidson original, which was stolen in Houston, TX last year, as reported by ABS-CBN News Cagayan De Oro. Furthermore, the report stated that Bigcas failed to attend last Monday’s House of Representatives hearing in Manila, saying his lawyer got ill. Reportedly, a total of 11 luxury vehicles taken from the house of Bigcas were stolen in the United States, which include a Chevrolet Tahoe, Dodge Charger, Ranger RZR-UTV, Honda bike, Big Dog bike, Yamaha bike, Kawasaki Ninja and Chopper bike.

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 124 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

“100 DAYS TO HEAVEN” GRACES TFC THIS MAY

2011-05-11T14:42:00.000-07:00

If you were given a second chance to correct the faults you made to save your soul from eternal damnation, would you take it? And if so, will you be willing to start from the beginning?

From the makers of ‘May Bukas Pa’, The Filipino Channel (TFC) proudly presents another tale of hope and faith entitled “100 Days to Heaven”.

Louise Abuel

Coney Reyes

A story of second chances, friendship, and faith, “100 Days to Heaven” centers on the life of Anna Manalastas, played by both Xyriel Manabat (as the young Anna) and Coney Reyes (as the adult Anna). Anna is a mean and shrewd business woman who happens to be the owner of the biggest toy company in the Philippines. The joy that she gives to children is far from the wrath she exudes in running her business. With her sudden death, Anna realizes that she is about to go to Hell. She then strikes a deal with the Gate Keeper of Heaven to give her a second chance in order to gain a place in Heaven. She was given the opportunity to undo her wrongdoing, but with a catch-- she must do it within 100 days and not as an adult, but as her seven year-old self.
After playing supporting roles in the teleseryes ‘Ysabella’ and ‘Rubi’, veteran actress Coney Reyes now stars in ‘100 Days To Heaven’, along with child superstar, Xyriel Manabat who also makes a comeback after the teleserye “Noah.”

Xyriel Manabat

Skillfully directed by Malu L. Sevilla, “100 Days to Heaven” is not an ordinary television series. It does not only present the struggles of everyday living. The series also aims to remind both the young and the old of the important values that the children of today may have neglected.
Adding color to the unique story of “100 Days To Heaven" are the characters of Jodi Sta. Maria as Sophia, Louise Abuel as Kevin, Joel Torre as Andres, Dominic Ochoa as Bobby, Valerie Concepcion as Miranda, Rafael Rosell as Bart, Smokey Manaloto as Bruce, and Neil Coleta as Jopet.

Prepare for eye-opening and heart-warming episodes of “100 Days to Heaven” as it graces TFC this May.

Western Union Back-to-School Promotion Helps Give Back to Lucky Senders

2011-05-11T10:39:00.000-07:00

$1,000 Weekly Sweepstakes Promotion for Money Transfers Sent to Philippines

From May 2 through July 10, 2011, The Western Union Company, a global payments leader, is offering a back-to-school promotion that gives money transfer senders to the Philippines not only an opportunity to send a special gift for the future of their children, but also chances to win up to $1,000 in a weekly sweepstakes as well.

Consumers who send qualifying money transfers through Western Union - to the Philippines and mention promo code, “School” will be eligible to earn a match up to $1,000 for the amount of the money transfer sent in one of the weekly drawings. No Purchase is Necessary to Enter or Win. Subject to Official rules, available online at westernunion.com/Philippines .

Filipino immigrants in the United States will understand that the timing is great as it comes just in time when they send more money to the Philippines to help children—either related to them or not—pay for their tuition, to purchase new school uniforms, notebooks and to pay for other school-related expenses.

“It’s like getting back the money you sent, which might encourage you to send even more money to your children and other relatives going back to school,” said Victoria López-Negrete, Senior Vice President and General Manager, North America, Western Union.

This year, Western Union has also engaged Vic Sotto, a well known Filipino celebrity to inform Filipinos about Western Union services. Sotto is one of the most prominent TV and movie personalities in the Philippines.

“I know education is very important for us Filipinos. That is why I am happy that Western Union is launching this back to school promotion. For Pinoys in the U.S. who are sending money for the tuition of their kids or siblings back home, this promotion is for you,” said Vic Sotto.
The total cash prize payout of up to $10,000 is a substantial amount that continues Western Union’s long-standing tradition of commitment to the Filipino community.
Additionally, the Western Union Foundation provides a Family Scholarship Program, a new initiative for migrants, immigrants and their families designed to help them rise up the economic development ladder through education.

Winners of the back to school sweepstakes promotion will be contacted by mail and/or telephone using the information provided in the money transfer or mail-in entry. Winners’ names will be posted in westernunion.com/Philippines and on Western Union’s Facebook page.

Customers will be entered into the sweepstakes each time they send a qualifying money transfer using the promo word: “School” by visiting a participating Agent location, by sending money online at westernunion.com, or by calling 1-877-PERA-ITO to send a telephone money transfer. For more information, visit www.westernunion.com/Philippines.

Community Pictures

2011-05-11T10:14:00.000-07:00

George Gange and Diana Overson busking to raise awareness and token funds for the Japan earthquake and tsunami victims relief.

PICNIC/GET TOGETHER. Former employees of the Philippine Veterans Bank Northern California Group had a picnic and get together at Lake Elizabeth in Fremont last Sunday, May 1st 2011 in preparation of the upcoming grand reunion to be held this coming September 3&4, 2011 here in Northern California. Photo shows are the following members: Seated from L to R Sandy Solatan, Angelica Virola, & Josie Fernandez Standing from L to R: Lita Panoringan, Peanuts Ferranco, Ernie Tongson, Lulu Sanchez, Fae Albano, Johnny Escareal, Evelyn Reyes, Joey Reyes, Alma Jose & Marites Famacion.

JD Charisma, a 15 year old young artist is the first & the only Filipino-American kid that composed a song for Manny Pacquiao, The 8 Time World Boxing Champion & performed his composition in front of the Champ at the Wild Card Boxing Gym in LA where Manny does his boxing & practices with Coach Freddie Roach. JD Charisma based his composition on Manny's life history & background. JD is also in the process of producing & finishing a music video & a movie based on this composition filmed by Leilani Amour of Heavenly Eyes Productions.

Leland Yee's Campaign

2011-05-11T10:07:00.001-07:00

FIL-AM’S ENDORSE LELAND YEE- The Fil-Am community held a town hall meeting and fund raiser for Senator Leland Yee last week at the residence of Club Royale president Mr. and Mrs. Gil Navarro in Sta. Ana Street in San Francisco. The event was organized by State Commissioner Ray Satorre and other community leaders. Leland Yee discussed his plans, priorities and to why he entered the election.

“It's going to take hard work each and every day of the campaign trail just to get that opportunity. I am not afraid of hardwork but no one can do this job alone- no one should do this job alone. Let's do it together.” Yee, stated.

“I am highly endorsing Leland Yee, because he empowers the Fil-Ams in the political world and he is sincere and committed when he supports us. The Fil-Am Veterans were given the needed support in the equity act.” Satorre said.

Leland Yee has gained the support of the organization in his run for mayor of San Francisco,

Daly City officials and State Commisioner attended the campaign kick off party for Senator Leland Yee last Saturday at the Headquarters in 710 Van ness, San Francisco, Ca. Photo L-R: Daly City Councilmember Ray Buenaventura and his Son, State Comissioner Ray Satorre, Daly City Mayor Carol Klatt and Daly City Councilmember Mike Guingona.

San Francisco residents/supporters for Leland Yee as Mayor: Celso Mangoba-Vice President Fil-Am Seniors Association, Roland Llanes former president of Asean Fil-Am Seniors Association and Tony Mendoza, Commissioner on Aging.

Pinoy Yee campaign kick-off party.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Yee and Mar team up with community to
host 7th annual Richmond Health Festival

State Senator Leland Yee, Supervisor Eric Mar and several service organizatons have again partnered to organize the 2011 Richmond District Community Health Festival. During their press conference Last Friday, May 6, Kaiser Permanente, Compassionate Community Care, Self Help for the Elderly and Richmond Area Multi Services, Inc. joined with the two San Francisco officials encouraged residents to attend the Festival on Saturday, May 14 from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The Health Festival will feature FREE clnical health services. including blood pressure test etc... The fair will also feature FREE giveaways, food ,health education offered by more than 40 community health organizations, children's activities and family run. This will take place at the Richmond Recreation Center, 251 18th Ave. Sana Francisco, CA. (between California & Clememt)

Issue 19: May 11, 2011

2011-05-11T09:42:00.000-07:00

Pacquiao, Inc.
(The Filipino Global Boxing Icon has metamorphosed into an Enterprise)

SEEN IN THE CITY

When Manny Pacquiao defeated Shane Mosley last Saturday night, May 7th, 2011 at the MGM Grand Arena, winning a 14th straight time, he not only solidified his stature in the boxing world, he also cemented his topmost place in the ‘Rich and Famous’ world. Successful people normally gravitate around fellow high achievers and proof positive are the vast array of A-listers spotted in Pacquiao’s latest one-man show – David Foster, Paris & sister Nicky Hilton, US Olympian Gold Medalist Apolo Anton Ohno, Jamie Foxx, Charice, Miguel Cotto, Hell’s Kitchen’s Chef Gordon Ramsay, Floyd Mayweather Sr, Survivor’s Jimi Jamison, among others.

Spotted in Vegas was GMA 7's prized possession, Richard Gutierrez, shown here during the weigh-in at the MGM Grand Arena with equally popular parents, Eddie & Annabel.

Highly-respected Grammy-winning songwriter & Charice's friend, David Foster (left) witnessed the Pacquiao-Mosley epic last Saturday night at MGM Grand Arena & was seen until the wee hours partying at Mandalay Bay Resort.

There is no stopping Manny Pacquiao from turning into a huge corporate enterprise. The once poor guy from the Southern Philippines is now a corporation. I personally met his Tax Accountant Joseph ‘Jojo’ Cabuhat, who proudly & pridely claims to be the only Filipino among the pool of his financial advisors. According to Atty Julie Soo (she’s close friends with Pacquiao’s Filipina lawyer - Marsha Dungog, Esq) who I met and spoke in length to at the Las Vegas airport, Pacquiao’s got also a pool of lawyers from all fields of specialization – Libel, Copyright, Entertainment, Contracts, Business, Taxation, International, among others.

(L-R) Brothers Steve & Matt Carter from New Zealand gifted their father, Graeme for his 65th birthday, the one he wanted most - a 3-day package trip to Vegas all the way from down under to personally witness Manny Pacquiao fight last Saturday at the MGM Grand.

Apolo Anton Ohno (right) the Speed Skater Gold Olympian also watched ringside the Pacquiao-Mosley fight last Saturday night.

Cash poured in like water at Vegas last weekend as hotel casinos, restaurants, stores are overflowing with people from all over the world. People that spend money. People that gamble. Pacquiao memorabilia (caps, T-shirts, boxing gloves, etc) are selling like hotcakes. The hotel closed-circuit TV tickets were all sold-out, too! According to published reports, it is estimated that around $200 Million to $300 Million is expected to pump in and resurrect local economy.
I foresee a barrage of world-famous celebrities storming the Philippines the next few years as a result of Pacquiao’s stratospheric celebrity status. Already excited to fly to Manila is Paris Hilton who tweeted that the Pacquiao couple invited her for a visit and she accepted. This is nothing but goodness to Pacquiao, to the Filipinos and to the Philippines.

Hayden Kho, Jr (yes, he arrived with Dra Vicki Belo) with San Jose's Agnes Aguirre (left) at the VIP Entrance of MGM Grand Arena.

We also met & chatted in length with Beverly Hills-based Michael Joseph 'Jojo' Cabuhat (right) who can pride himself as being the only Filipino in Manny Pacquiao's pool of Financial, Accounting & Tax advisors.

I was one of the only 260 approved for Media Credentials (about 500 media professionals applied) to cover the sold-out Pacquiao-Mosley fight. Looking back, I thank Pacquaio for making me this proud Filipino witnessing all these in my lifetime and I thank God for making me live this long to witness and feel this special nationalistic feeling. I witnessed firsthand and rubbed elbows with many of these most interesting people of the world.

Hollywood celebrity Paris Hilton watched the Saturday Pacquiao-Mosley fight, stayed on until the media post-fight conference & chatted with Manny's wife, Jinkee Pacquiao (right).

I have said it before and I will say it again. I have no idea how far Pacquiao will take his greatness but one thing is sure – he will take his countrymen and his country with him.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK
“People will pay to see Manny Pacquiao. Because he is not dull. He is the aggressor. He is an entertaining fighter. I believe most people who saw the fight bought it not with the expectation that Shane Mosley would win. They bought the Margarito fight, not because they thought Margarito would win, but because they wanted to be entertained by Manny Pacquiao,” by Mega Promoter, Bob Arum of Top Rank.

Jinkee Pacquiao with Manila Mail's VP for Communiy Affairs; Joey Panlilio during post-fight thanks giving mass at the Mandalay Bay Casino Hotel, Las Vegas LV.

Oscar-winner & Hollywood A-lister Jamie Foxx photographed here at the VIP entrance of MGM Grand Arena arriving early for the Pacquiao-Mosley fight.

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 123 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

Follow me on Twitter (www.twitter.com/bradford_adkins)

Community Pictures

2011-03-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

Former employees of Philippine Veterans Bank celebrated the birthday of Rudy Ferranco last February 27, 2011 at the residence of Evelyn Reyes in Fremont California. Likewise, a committtee meeting was held in preparation for the upcoming 7th PVB Grand Reunion to be hosted by PVB Northern California Group. Photo shows some of the members; Sitted from L to R: Art Panoringan. Tony Reyes, Fred Villaflores & Rudy Ferranco (the celebrant). Standing from L to R: Lita Panoringan, Angelica Virola, Evelyn Reyes, Sandy Solatan, Marites Famacion, Aurora Villaflores & Peanuts Ferranco.

Ms. Christa Cawit, 19 years old, grand daughter of Atty Melba Cawit was the Queen of Hearts 2011 recently held in San Leandro, CA. awarded by Lodor Entertainment.

Filipino American leaders meet to advance FilAm billion Calif. Legislature to promote interests of WWII veterans at PBRC Center in Daly City. (L-R) Fil-Am Democratic Presidnet, Fel Amistad, Marico Enriquez, Commissioner, Parks and Recreation Commission of San Mateo; Sgt. E5 Regino Nacua; Alice Bulos, Commissioner for the San Mateo County Commission on the Status of Women; Mike Guingona, Daly City Mayor; Rudy Ascercion, Veterans Advocate & Veterans War Memorial Commissioner; Fiona Ma, Assembywoman (D-San Francisco/Daly City); MSgt. Simplicio Yoma; Pvt. Alfredo C. Cariño and 2nd Lt. Paulino Punzalan.

The Fil-Am is endorsing Gina Papan. State Commissioner Ray Satorre recently attended the Fund Raising for Gina Papan candidacy for San Mateo County Supervisor held at Half Moon Bay Hotel together with Perla Ibarrientos and Rey Buenaventura.

Birthday greetings to our friend, Jojo, celebrating his 43rd on March 15 - Manila Mail

Christening of Baby Rian Paul Ocampo Gania at St. Thomas More Catholic Church San Francisco CA.,Reception at PBRC Building Junifero Serra Blvd. Daly City CA. ,Parents:Mon and May Ocampo Gania ,from left: IAN Ocampo,MIMI Ocampo Chiva,Kyle Ocampo Chiva.

Issue 10: Mar 9, 2011

2011-03-08T12:38:00.000-08:00

Thia Megia Makes Top 10

(All 3 ‘American Idol’ judges have the most heartwarming praises for her talent)

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Congratulations folks, your coordinated voting efforts last Wednesday night safely put Fil-Am singing phenom Thia Megia on American Idol’s Elite Top Ten, minus the 3 wild cards, (dubbed as the Crème de la Crème of the Mother of all AI competitions – the best they ever had!). At 15, she is the youngest finalist of the show, ever. They lowered the audition age from 16 last year to 15 just this season. Can’t wait for the California audition, Thia flew to Milwaukee to audition there, a decision she didn’t regret.

Thia Megia, 15, sang Irene Cara's "Out Here On My Own" (from the movie 'Fame') almost a capella and puts Mountain House, CA on the map by making it to American Idol Season 10's Top 10 (without the wildcards) last Thursday night.

This Columnist spoke to Thia Megia’s elder sister Lia Megia from Mountain House, CA before the elimination round last Thursday, the highest rating the show had since 2007 (25 million viewers watched) . As we have gathered, their mother, Cynthia is from Pampanga while their father, Loreto is from Manila. Thia’s a former contestant at America’s Got Talent where she didn’t make it through the finals. She’s been singing since age 4 and her passion for music was very evident during the American Idol auditions up until her solo performance last Wednesday where she got nothing but good praises from all 3 judges. With no music and just a spotlight on stage, on the first half of her ‘Out here on right own’ (song from Irene Cara’s performance in the movie ‘Fame’), the audiences heard nothing but the purest high-grade quality of her young voice. Critics have called her a ‘robot’ for being always on pitch during her performances. Host Ryan Seacrest jokingly demanded further proof that she’s only 15. Judge Steven said that they did a good job judging all the good talent this year making it difficult to eliminate. But Thia made it easy for him – for she did a good job. Judge Jennifer said her performance was very special in the middle of all the big performances that night. Randy said she reminded him of Michael Jackson (the mark of all great singers - the quality of the voice) the first time they heard her sing.

Gerald Anderson, who celebrated his birthday on March 7th will be seen in San Jose on "StarMagic 18 World Tour" on Saturday, 7:00PM, April 16th, 2011 at the SJSU Events Center Arena. Call (510) 828-4792 for tickets.

Thia’s singing her favorite artist’s song (this week’s theme) this competition Wednesday, folks, so get ready with your dialing fingers to vote her again! To prepare, make sure you paid your cable & phone bills, spread the good news around and encourage other household members to participate.

There are 4 ways to vote for Thia Megia on AI – by calling, by text, by online voting (www.AmericanIdol.com) and by your family & friends in other parts of the world, that have magic jacks (they have US numbers too!). Hey, it’s a very good family bonding moment when all of you in the household are glued to the show every Wednesday & Thursday. As they say – the family that votes together, stays together!

Don't miss Engchong Dee (together with 17 more artists) in StarMagic 18 World Tour at SJSU Event Center Arena in San Jose, CA on Saturday, 7:00PM, April 16th.

WBC and WBO Bantamweight Champion Nonito Donaire, Jr. and wife Rachel ended their family feud but waged a new war - this time with the sportswriters who they blame for their family troubles. Photo by www.philstar.com

SEEN IN THE CITY

GMA Network continues nationwide television dominance in the Philippines
(Manila, Philippines) Philippine broadcast industry leader GMA Network, Inc. (GMA) continued its winning ratings performance that swept through National Urban Philippines this February. The Kapuso station dislodged rival station ABS-CBN in the number one position at the start of 2011.

According to the full February data (February 20 to 28 based on overnight readings) from the more widely recognized industry ratings supplier Nielsen TV Audience Measurement, GMA ate up 34.2 percent of household audience shares nationwide, 2.2 percent bigger than ABS’ 32 share points; and 19.3 points higher than TV5’s 14.9 points.

GMA-7's "Dwarfina," starring Heart Evangelistsa & Dennis Trillo continues to dominate domestic ratings.

GMA booked 16 programs in the list of overall top 30 programs nationwide. GMA News and Public Affairs’ (N&PA) Kapuso Mo , Jessica Soho was television’s highest rated public affairs program nationwide with a household rating point of 22.1.

In Total Urban Luzon, which makes up 77 percent of total television households nationwide, GMA enjoys top rank with ABS and TV5 remaining behind by huge margins. GMA finished its February programming with 37.9 household share points, more than 10 points higher than ABS’ 27 points; and up by 21.2 points from TV5’s 16.7.

Including specials, there were 21 GMA-produced programs that made it to the top 30 programs in Urban Luzon. The Charice Home for Valentine’s scored a high 27.2 household rating points on the board.

GMA also strengthened its grip in viewer-rich Mega Manila, which comprises 58 percent of total television households nationwide. For the covered period, GMA scored 39.4 share points, or a 14.3-point lead from ABS’ 25.1; and higher by more than twofold than TV5’s 17.3.

As always, top Mega Manila programs came from GMA. With specials, there were 23 Kapuso programs that made it to the top 30 programs in the said area. Of the top 10 programs on chart, eight were from GMA. Among the top raters for February were News and Public Affairs programs 24 Oras, Kapuso Mo Jessica Soho and Imbestigador; entertainment programs Dwarfina, Machete, Magic Palayok, Koreana, Alakdana, My Lover, My Wife and I Heart You Pare; Koreanovelas Tempation of Wife and The Baker King and the all-time hit Eat Bulaga. Newly-launched program of ABS the Price is Right did not make it to the list.

The Nielsen TV Audience Measurement used by GMA is used by 21 companies including two other local TV networks, namely, TV5 and Solar Entertainment; Faulkner Media; CBN Asia; 13 advertising agencies and three regional clients. On the other hand, ABS-CBN is the only local network reportedly subscribing to Kantar Media, formerly known as TNS.

In Mega Manila alone, the Nielsen TV Audience Measurement has a sample size of 880 homes as compared to Kantar Media’s 770 homes. Nationwide, Nielsen has a total sample size of 2,005 homes compared to the lower sample size of 1,370 utilized by Kantar Media.

GMA Network’s top-rating programs can be seen worldwide on GMA Pinoy TV, the network’s flagship international channel (Channel 369 on Comcast Cable).

International Singer Lea Salonga will perform this Friday & Saturday, March 11 & 12, respectively at Club 88 of the Cache Creek Resort & Casino. Call (650) 826-0326 for tickets.

PERSONAL NOTES

Briefs & shorts The Donaire father & son have reconciled in Castro Valley, CA and now, Rachel Donaire (Nonito Donaire, Jr.’s wife) is blaming the media for exaggerating their family misunderstandings… Yahoo reports that Best Buy is still struggling to entice customers, 2 years after knocking out Circuit City who went bankrupt, and the worst is yet to come…Latest Twitter feuds have ABS-CBN Actress Angelica Panganiban planning to sue Philippine Azkals fan for libel - she tweeted football starplayer Phil Younghusband should focus on the sports not do an indie movie and the Azkals fans responded not very nicely, calling Angelica unprintable names and calling her boyfriend an ‘athlete wannabe,’ among others…Verizon iPhone sales are reported to be lackluster. Reports have it that that AT&T iPhones are faster than Verizon’s…iPad 2 will start selling starting March 11th…Borders Group recently filed for Bankruptcy protection…Stockton, CA is named as America’s Most Miserable City, again, by Forbes Magazine…Belated Happy Birthdays to Abby Borgonia & Teofila Lao of San Ramon, and Mary Jo Montano of Fremont.

Belated Happy Birthday to Fremont's Mary Jo Montano.

Belated happy birthday too, to Teofila Lao of San Ramon, CA.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

"Your tone, when we first heard you reminded me so much of the late, great Michael Jackson, and I love it. It's infectious from the first note you sang." – by the last remaining original judge on American Idol – Randy Jackson to 15-year old Fil-Am Thia Megia during last Wednesday night’s Top 24 elimination round. Thia made it Top 10 (minus the 3 wildcards) last Thursday night.

Belated Happy Birthday also to San Ramon's Abby Borgonia.

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 115 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com

VERIZON WIRELESS RECOGNIZED AS CALL QUALITY LEADER IN FIVE REGIONS BY J.D. POWER AND ASSOCIATES

2011-03-08T12:08:00.000-08:00

Nation’s Largest Wireless Provider Tops in Regions Covering 44 States

Basking RiDge, N.J. – When it comes to call quality, wireless users rate Verizon Wireless as the leader in five regions covering 44 states, according to the J.D. Power and Associates 2011 Wireless Call Quality Performance StudySM, Volume 1, issued today.

The J.D. Power and Associates study measures call quality among the major U.S. wireless service providers in six regions based on factors that impact overall carrier performance. More than 27,250 wireless phone subscribers were surveyed by J.D. Power and Associates between July and December 2010 about their experiences with dropped calls, static/interference, failed connection on the first try, voice distortion, echoes, no immediate voice mail notification, and no immediate text message notification.

Verizon Wireless scored higher than the industry average in five regions that cover 44 states and the District of Columbia:

o Northeast Region, which covers Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Rhode Island and Vermont.

o West Region, which covers Arizona, California, Colorado, Idaho, Iowa, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, Utah, Washington and Wyoming.

o Southeast Region, which covers nine additional states: Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee.

o Southwest Region, which covers Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma and Texas.

o Mid-Atlantic Region (where Verizon Wireless tied for the top ranking), which covers Delaware, District of Columbia, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.

“When we say we offer Verizon Wireless customers the nation’s most reliable wireless network, we mean it,” said David Small, vice president and chief technical officer of Verizon Wireless. “These awards are a demonstration of our company’s commitment to invest in our network: more than $6 billion annually; as well as the dedication of Verizon Wireless engineers who plan, build and maintain our nationwide network. We remain committed to continuing our investment in 2011, both in our 3G network and in our 4G LTE network that we are rolling out across the country.”

Verizon Wireless’ Reliable Network*

Verizon Wireless has the largest and most reliable voice and 3G data network coverage area in the United States. Each year, Verizon Wireless aggressively invests billions of dollars in its network to stay ahead of the growing demand for the company’s voice and data services. Verizon Wireless’ ongoing network investment now totals more than $65 billion nationally over the past ten years.

In December 2010, Verizon Wireless debuted its new 4G LTE network in 38 major metropolitan areas, covering more than 110 million Americans. Verizon Wireless’ 4G LTE network is the fastest, most advanced 4G network in the United States. The company has committed to launch 140 additional 4G LTE markets during 2011, covering two-thirds of all Americans by the end of this year.

Stay up to date on Verizon Wireless’ latest network news, stories and information at www.youtube.com/VerizonWirelessTV or follow VZWNetwork on Twitter at http://twitter.com/VZWNetwork.

For more information about Verizon Wireless, visit www.verizonwireless.com.
* The company’s “most reliable network” claim is based on network studies performed by test men and women who conduct more than 3.5 million voice call attempts and more than 19 million data tests annually on Verizon Wireless’ and other national wireless carriers’ networks while traveling more than 1 million miles in specially equipped, company-owned quality test vehicles. For more information about Verizon Wireless testing, go to http://aboutus.vzw.com/bestnetwork/reliability.html.

About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless operates the nation’s most reliable and largest wireless voice and 3G data network, serving more than 94 million customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., with 82,000 employees nationwide, Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE, NASDAQ: VZ) and Vodafone (LSE, NASDAQ: VOD). For more information, visit www.verizonwireless.com. To preview and request broadcast-quality video footage and high-resolution stills of Verizon Wireless operations, log on to the Verizon Wireless Multimedia Library at www.verizonwireless.com/multimedia.

Issue 6: Feb 9, 2011

2011-02-08T10:56:00.000-08:00

SEEN IN THE CITY

The Grammy-nominated (he is up for 7 major awards) hitmaker, Bruno Mars, is responsible for hits like ‘Nothin’ on You’, ‘Just The Way You Are’ , ‘Billionaire’ & the recent ‘Grenade’. The half-Puerto Rican Filipino will hit Manila for his first-ever concert there on April 8th this year. But first, he made a plea deal following his Las Vegas cocaine arrest last September 19 alongside lawyers Blair Berk and David Chesnoff in court last Friday (February 4).

Bruno Mars, the Half-Puerto Rican Filipino hitmaker who is set to do a concert in Manila on April 8th, entered a plea Friday, avoiding jailtime for the cocaine bust in Las Vegas. Photo by www.rnbmusicblog.com

The singer/composer was arrested at the Las Vegas Hard Rock Hotel when a member of security caught him red-handed in the hotel bathroom.

Ella Bungalon and Janie Armenta, both from Barcelona, Spain pose for a souvenir shot with Columnist Primera, Ricky Lo, center, during Startalk's production breaks 2 weeks ago at the GMA-7 studios in Quezon City.

Aljur Abrenica of the new GMA-7 TV show, "Machete" shows up in costume (or lack of it) at a recent PARTY PILIPINAS episode - that Sunday show with a Sex Appeal, for a reason.

According to www.TMZ.com, “the 25-year-old singer agreed a ‘deferred adjudication’ deal with the Clark County District Attorney's Office, meaning the incident will not appear on his criminal record if he stays out of trouble for a 12-month period.

The agreement is also believed to be dependent on the "Grenade" singer completing 200 hours of community service, as well as him undergoing private treatment, after which the felony will be officially dismissed.

Naelene Camillo, 22, of Milpitas, CA had submitted her YouTube channel 4days late of the deadline for submission consideration. The following morning Scarlett Rumor, the owner of GET Productions and host of the event, had informed Naelene that she was picked amongst 150 YouTube video submissions despite her late entry. That same week she was featured on Bay Area hit radio station 102.5 KDON. Currently, she is working on her music career doing shows and writing songs and collaborating with many in the business. She landed a major opening gig for nationally known rapper Bobby Brackins on January 21st. You can subscribe to her YouTube channel here at www.youtube.com/NaeCamillo, visit her music page atwww.facebook.com/NaeCamillo, and follow her on twitter www.youtube.com/NaeCamillo.

Bruno—real name Peter Hernandez—recently expressed his appreciation at being able to strike a plea bargain with the Clark County District Attorney's Office.

His lawyer Blair Berk said: "Bruno is very appreciative he is being given this opportunity as a first offender not to suffer any conviction and instead to have his charge dismissed. He is taking all of this quite seriously."”

Congratulations to Antioch, CA Dentist, Ricky Masiddo and Pleasanton's Ms. Reggie Panganiban, RN who celebrated their recent anniversary as a couple at the romantic & scenic Ritz Carlton Hotel in Half-Moon Bay, CA.

Karen & Neil recently won the Mr. & Miss University of Holy Angel University in Angeles, Pampanga, shown here with a 'Capampangan' movie director, Elwood Perez (he was one of the judges), left. Sitting on a seven-hectare campus in the city’s prime real estate, Holy Angel University was founded in 1933 and is considered the first Catholic school in the country that was founded by the laity (instead of the diocese or a religious congregation) as well as the first Catholic high school that was co-educational (instead of exclusively for boys or exclusively for girls). It's over 16,000 student population this school year also makes it one of the biggest schools in Central Luzon, if not the biggest.

Everything that happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas, EXCEPT when you’re caught doing drugs.
Bruno’s Philippine concert will be on April 8, 2011, 7:00PM - 10:00PM, at the Araneta Coliseum in Quezon City (not in the Mall of Asia Concert Grounds as earlier reported).

Miss Henni Espinosa of TFC’s Balitang America receives BAYAN-USA’s Media Bayani award last Feb 4, underscoring her dedication to journalistic excellence and integrity in serving the Filipinos worldwide. Balitang America senior reporter Henni Espinosa was named the lone Filipino media awardee by BAYAN-USA for the latter’s 6th anniversary celebration held at the Bayanihan Community Center in San Francisco.

Mercator Model Agency's Paul Henry of Pleasanton, CA lands a major role in a telecom TV commercial in the Philippines.

TO-BE-SEEN IN THE CITY

Verizon iPhone is here February 10
The iPhone is so revolutionary it defines a whole generation of apps-savvy new phone users. Those techno geeks who love iPhone but don’t like AT&T service, fret no more as Verizon Wireless iPhones are finally here. A better iPhone alternative according to some techno surveys due to Verizon’s more superior network and reliability. Here’s how to get your Verizon Wireless iPhone (according to the Apple official website):

February 9
Order an iPhone 4 from the Apple Online Store and have it shipped free to your door.
Or reserve an iPhone 4 on February 9 for pickup at your favorite Apple Retail Store starting February 10 and get Personal Setup.

February 10
Order an iPhone 4 from the Apple Online Store and have it shipped free to your door.
Or stop by an Apple Retail Store starting at 7 a.m. to buy an iPhone 4 on a first-come, first-served basis.

Another breaking news update - according to published online reports, “Verizon is no longer accepting pre-orders for the iPhone 4 as the pre-orders sold out quickly. The demand for Verizon iPhone was very strong as it took less than a day for the pre-orders to sell out. Verizon's website took a beating from customers, many of whom didn't manage to pre-order their iPhone 4, but they'll have another chance next week.”

Annline Calcita, left, and Moki Ramos (a half-Japanese Filipina) were recently commissioned to endorse Jesi Mendez Salon branch in the lobby of Maxim's Hotel located at the Newport Center near Resortsworld Hotel.

One little warning though – these Verizon iPhones are not SIM Card-based so they cannot be used in the Philippines (without incurring humongous roaming charges) as we normally do on AT&T iPhones (where we simply switch to local SIM cards).

PERSONAL NOTES
Fil-Am Paul Henry secures 1st endorsement

Now, another bit of good news- Pleasanton’s Paul Henry who is now in the Philippines exploring career opportunities in the entertainment world successfully landed a major role in a telecommunications TV commercial. As a matter of fact, he already shot his scenes several days ago and is already awaiting its TV airing soon. He has only been working for a week in a non-exclusive capacity with Mercator Model Agency (thanks, Jonas Antonio Gaffud!) located in Makati City, when he got the job offer after several callbacks. Paul Henry, who remains super excited about the whole experience, is looking forward to his next projects as he has done several auditions and is just awaiting results. Good luck, Paul!

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

“Don’t worry, he’s just an eff’ing faggot anyway.” - by Mark Mastro, a clubgoer, referring to “Transformers” (yes, that hugely successful General Patronage movie about robotic cars!) lead star, Shia LaBeouf when he refused to be give autograph and be photographed last Saturday in a Sherman Oaks, CA bar. The actor charged back on mark and a brawl ensued that called the attention of the police where LaBeouf was then handcuffed (no charges have been filed, though). The actor has previous run-ins with the law for being intoxicated.

Jin Custodio, leftmost, of San Francisco had a going-away party last Friday night at Bruno's Lounge SF, attended by close family (which includes cousin Abby Borgonia, 4th right) and friends. He flew Saturday night to Manila with cousin-in-law, Junny Borgonia, 3rd right, to start their own company, AEON (who will sell medical instruments to medical facilities), to be headquartered in The Fort.

This article also appears online at www.FilipinoVillage.com and http://sites.google.com/site/adkinsmmcevents/Home/ with readership in 113 countries now (& still counting!) according to the latest Google Analytics report.

Do you have any personal or community events you want announced or published? Just email them to bradford_adkins@yahoo.com