"Something to Crow About" Premieres at Alex Theatre

Text by Johnny M. Pecayo
MUST Photos by Romeo M. Balboa














CONSUL GENERAL Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, acknowledges the many talents of Filipinos and congratulates Dr. Alejandro Roces and Cecile Guidote for the splendid performance of the 40-male and female cast. Behind her are Glendale City Commissioner for Arts & Culture Zen Lopez and Councilmember and former Glendale City Mayor Bob Yousefian (partly hidden).

GLENDALE, CA -- "Something to Crow About" marks the very first time a full-length zarzuela in English from the Philippines which was performed Thursday, June 28, at the legendary Alex Theatre here.

Prior to the Glendale City premiere, the cast and crew of the production had performed five shows at the legendary off-Broadway La Mama Theater in New York, June 21-24.

The L.A. production of "Something to Crow About" was executive produced by Susan M. Dilkes and Edward Dilkes and co-produced by Zen Lopez, Arts & Culture Commissioner for the City of Glendale, and was sponsored, in part, by ABS-CBN/The Filipino Channel, with publicity support from the MANILA-U.S. TIMES, which featured its announcement in the June 17 edition, and other local newspaper publications.
This highly successful and professionally executed play was presented by TDRZ Productions, Inc., in cooperation with the Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles, headed by Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon, the Philippine Department of Tourism, headed by its local director Annie Cuevas; and the Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI), chaired by Atty. Eduardo Angeles, with Susan Dilkes as its Executive Director.

Zarzuela comes to America direct from the Cultural Center of the Philippines, based on Philippine National Artist for Literature Dr. Alejandro R. Roces' eponymous prize-winning book of short stories. The musical is about the uniquely "Pinoy" fascination with fighting roosters (or game cocks) and cockfighting.

Executive Director, Cecile Guidote-Alvarez, "Something to Crow About" won the 2006 Aliw Award for Best Musical (category: zarzuela) and Best Musical Direction.

The musical consists of a talented cast of 40 and bears the hallmark of some of the most fascinating scenes from Dr. Roces's book marked with wit, humor and satire that highlights the traditional sport of cockfighting as a vehicle (even metaphor) to unfold the colorful panorama of customs, heritage, values, religions and even relationships in the social, economic and political life of a typical Filipino town.

There were many lessons to learn from this play, including equality of justice for all. - JP



ARTS & CULTURE Commissioner Zen Lopez and Dr. Alejandro Roces, with Susan Dilkes and Ted Benito



























DR. ALEJANDRO ROCES, holding a bouquet of roses, receives a CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION from Atty. Eduardo Angeles (back to camera), Counsel, City Council of Los Angeles.



ZARZUELA's Cast.























GLENDALE CITY Councilmember Bob Yousefian presents a Plaque of Recognition to Zarzuela's Executive Director Cecile Guidote.

Washington D.C. PE Hosts Successful

First Uniglobal Services Outsourcing (USO) IT Mission in the U.S.








AMBASSADOR WILLY C. GAA -- MUST PHOTO

CONSUL GENERAL MARY JO BERNARDO ARAGON -- MUST PHOTO by Jimmy Presto

WASHINGTON, DC -- Ambassador to the United States Willy C. Gaa welcomed the delegation of the 1st Uniglobal Services Outsourcing (USO), Inc. IT Mission to the U.S. at a reception held at the Philippine Embassy on 26 June, attended by key members and representatives of business chambers and organizations in the Metro D.C. Area.
“Trade missions such as this one and the continued confidence of our business partners in the Philippines and abroad will make possible President Arroyo’s prediction that 2007 will be the year when it all comes together,” said Ambassador Gaa before members of the Philippine-American Chamber of Commerce, Intelligent Transportation Society of America (ITSA), the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, the U.S. House Committee on Government Reform and Oversight, and staffers of U.S. Representatives John Mica (R-FL), Lee Terry (R-NE), Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL), and Senator John McCain (R-AZ).
The Philippine Delegation, composed of representatives from E-PLDT Ventus (Call Center), Vinzons-Chato Law Office (Legal Transcription) , Cronus Group, Inc. (Software Development) , Electronic Business Services-Asia Pacific (Finance & Accounting), and The Software Factory, Inc. (SAP Applications & Solutions) is led by Dr. Mina T. Gabor, USO President and former Secretary of the Department of Tourism (DOT). Newly-elect Representative of the lone district of Camarines Norte, and former Bureau of Internal Revunue (BIR) Commissioner Liwayway Vinzons-Chato, also joined the delegation as Observer.
In the BPO/IT Services market, the Philippines is estimated to have reached US$2.54 billion in 2006. The Call Center industry is expected to attain a revenue level of US$3.5 billion annually by 2008, potentially overtaking India in share of the global outsourcing market for call center services. In 2001, there were only 2,000 employees working in BPO companies in the Philippines. It is expected than a million jobs will be created by the business sector alone in 2010.

Dr. Gabor disclosed that the Philippines, as recently announced by Dr. James Poisant, Secretary-General of the World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA), ranks 2nd or 3rd in terms of competitiveness among member countries of WITSA, a consortium of IT industry association from 60 economies around the world representing over 90 percent of the world’s IT market.

The delegation already visited Los Angeles, where they were warmly received by Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon, and Florida before meeting potential partners in Washington, D.C. and Virginia, and is scheduled to visit Delaware and Philadelphia today, then New York, New Jersey (July 2-3), and San Francisco (July 5-6).

Fil-Am is New Mayor of Tabon-Tabon

By Johnny M. Pecayo

BEVERLY HILLS, CA -- Dr. Rusty Balderian, a Filipino American businessman and philanthropist, has been elected Mayor of Tabon-Tabon, Leyte. He left for Leyte last week, after a brief respite in Palos Verdes, California, where he and his family reside, to take his Oath of Office as the new Mayor of his town on June 30, 2007.

Dr. Balderian created a symbolic victory when he defeated Mayor Priscila Justimbaste, the undefeated Mayor for 27 years. Her father was likewise undefeated for 25 years.

Dr. Balderian garnered 2,692 votes against her opponent's 2,100 votes. "My winning number of votes should have been higher had they not been mysteriously dwindling in some of the pricincts during the canvassing."

Dr. Balderian and family are into healthcare business in California. The family also owns a hospital in Metro Manila, and a nursing school in Tabon-Tabon which, for sometime, was being targetted by the local government to close down.

The newly-elected Mayor fought for his nursing school's retention for very valid reasons: 1) It was put up to help the less privileged students attend a four-year college in nursing; 2) No tuition fee, whatsoever is being charged to any student; 3) Use of school facilities, laboratory, computer room, fire truck, books, library, is FREE; 4) Boarding is also provided free; 5) Quality education, complete with quality and qualified Faculty staff is provided; 6) Employment at U.S. hospitals has been pre-arranged for those who will pass the CSGFNS; and many more fringe benefits which Dr. Balderian shoulders.

"This special arrangement -- to ensure their employment at U.S. hospitals -- is based on the agreement that 80 per cent of their projected income must be remitted to their parents back home in order to help move the economy forward of this 5th class municipality. When there is a steady flow of money remittance, the municipality's economy will go nowhere, but up, which will redound to better economic growth, create employment, and increase in business' revenue generation," Mayor Balderian told the MANILA-U.S. TIMES when interviewed.

Dr. Balderian is a member of the prestigious California-based Tuesday Club, comprising of Filipino American businessmen, led by Emmanuel I. Bernabe, President of Pleasant Care Corporation, the largest Filipino American-owned healthcare facilities in the State of California; Paul Emata, President of American Ring LLC; Jovan Lee, attorney assistant at Susana Ragos Chung Law Offices; Dr. Nick Agpalo, President of Eagle Rock Dental Care; Mike Cucueco, President, Home Health Services of America; Johnny Pecayo, President of Jade Management Pacific Ventures, and Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of MANILA-U.S. TIMES; Errol Santos, businessman and restaurateur; Ross Labadlabad, President of Far East Home Health, who has likewise been elected congressman for Zamboanga del Norte, beating his closes opponent, movie actor Mat Ranillo, by almost 40,000 votes; Jun Alvarez, Marketing Director of Jemini Home Health Services, Inc.; Ram Lopez of Lopez Entertainment; Nestor del Rosario of Del Rosario Radiological Technical Company, and others.
















MAYOR RUSTY BALDERIAN of Tabon-Tabon, Leyte (2nd from right), in the company of business associates (from left): Mel Cucueco, Atoy Valencia, Johnny Pecayo Majie Kruse
(standing) and Paul B. Emata. -- MUST PHOTO

Mandanas Arranges for a P50 Million Donation

MANILA -- P50 Million for Education. Congressman Hermilando I. Mandanas (left), who arranged for a P50-Million donation for educational programs, presents the facsimili of a check drawn in favor of the Philippine Foundation for Cultural and Educational Development that will handle the disbursement for official expenses. Receiving the donation are Ambassador Jose Romero (2nd from left) and Manuel A. De Leon (4th from left). The presentation is being witnessed by Calixto Y. Laureano (2nd from right), Clarita T. Zarraga (3rd from left), and Atty. Leonardo S. Gayao (right). -- Tito Aguirre

Over 45 Asian LPGA Tour Golfers attend Michelob Ultra Open at Kingsmill

Photo credit: Michael Cohen, WireImage
Michelob ULTRA Celebrates 5th Anniversary of Asian LPGA Players Reception

Williamsburg, VA. -- Michelob ULTRA hosted a special reception to salute over 45 Asian LPGA Tour golfers participating in the LPGA Tour at the Michelob ULTRA Open at Kingsmill for the fifth year in a row.

Participating LPGA Asian golfers that attended the reception included former Michelob ULTRA Open champions Grace Park (2003) and Se Ri Pak (2004), 2006 champions Seon Hwa Lee, ShopRite LPGA Classic and Jin Joo Hong, KOLON-Hana Bank Championship, 2007 tournament winners Stacey Prammanasudh, Fields Open in Hawaii and Mi Hyun Kim, SemGroup Championship. Forty-seven of the top 50 LPGA Tour players competed in the Michelob ULTRA Open for a share of the $2.2 million purse. The winner, Suzann Pettersen, received $330,000.
Welcoming remarks at the reception were given by Wayne Nooe, Tournament Director, Michelob ULTRA Open. Key guests attending the reception included Chris Higgs, LPGA Senior Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, Olympic Medalist Skier Toby Dawson and officers and board members of the Korean American Grocers Association (KAGRO) from Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, Arizona and Colorado. LPGA player Mi Hyun Kim, winner of the recent SemGroup Championship, received special recognition from Chris Higgs for donating $100,000 of her winnings to the Kansas tornado victims.

“We are honored to be celebrating the achievements of the Asian LPGA golfers at the Michelob ULTRA Open for the fifth year,” said Jason Pak, Senior Director, Asian Marketing, Anheuser-Busch, Inc. “With each passing year this reception grows in significance as the presence of Asian players within the LPGA becomes evermore prominent. This is apparent in the current LPGA standings with over 20 from the top 50 of the Official Money List players being Asian.”

The tournament took place at the Kingsmill Resort and Spa, owned and operated by Busch Properties, Inc., the real estate subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch Companies. The Michelob Family is one of golf's strongest corporate sponsors with an association that dates back more than 33 years. In addition to the Michelob ULTRA Open at Kingsmill, Anheuser-Busch has sponsored the LPGA since 1994. Michelob ULTRA now serves as the “official beer,” and O'Doul's serves as the “official non-alcohol brew” of the LPGA, PGA TOUR and the Champions Tour.

For more than 15 years, Anheuser-Busch has contributed to Asian Pacific American communities through the development and support of a variety of programs that help meet the needs of these diverse communities. These programs are designed to provide immediate and long-term benefits to the communities through joint efforts with national, regional and local organizations who are developing the next generation of leadership.

Based in St. Louis, Anheuser Busch is the leading American brewer, holding a 48.4 percent share of U.S. beer sales. The company brews the world’s largest-selling beers, Budweiser and Bud Light. Anheuser Busch also owns a 50 percent share in Grupo Modelo, Mexico’s leading brewer and a 27 percent share in China brewer Tsingtao, whose namesake beer brand is the country’s best-selling premium beer. Anheuser-Busch ranked No. 1 among beverage companies in FORTUNE Magazine’s Most Admired U.S. and Global Companies lists in 2007. Anheuser Busch is one of the largest theme park operators in the United States, is a major manufacturer of aluminum cans and one of the world’s largest recyclers of aluminum cans. For more information, visit http://www.anheuser-busch.com/ or http://www.asianbud.com/.

Lumanog is Ambassador of Goodwill; Revolinski is Kalayaan Queen USA

By Johnny M. Pecayo
http://www.manila-ustimes.com/ . http://manilaustimes.blogspot.com/

LONG BEACH, CA -- At the June 8 Coronation Night, held at the huge Long Beach Convention Center here, over 300 people came to witness a bevy of beauties parading onstage -- from Miss Teen Kalayaan to Miss Kalayaan, Mrs. Kalayaan and Mrs. Senior Kalayaan -- including a fashion show conducted by Monet Lu, and the presentation of trophies to the individual winners, as well as group winners, in bowling, tennis and golf tournaments.

Noteworthy was the presence of elected officials and dignitaries, comprising of Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangililan, State Senator Jenny Oropesa, Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo-Aragon, Mayor Jim Dear of the City of Carson, Mayor Rusty Balderian of Tabon-Tabon, Leyte, Consul Hellen Barber, Frank Quiambao, Special Assistant to the Director, Office of Homeland Security, State Capitol, Sacramento, California; and Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal of the City of Long Beach, who officially welcomed the candidates and guests to the City, on behalf of Mayor Bob Foster, who happened to be out of town that week. Senator Pangilinan came straight from LAX and stayed throughout until the event was over.

The program began with the singing of the Star-Spangled Banner by Romy Borje, and the Bayang Magiliw by Bennette Ibanez, co-Host of Noel Omega, whose introduction to start hosting the program was voiced over by this writer.

Bennette and Noel came up onstage, delivered a short spiel, then called on Mylah de Leon, Vice Chair of the Pageant, to lead the Invocation.

After dinner, Ms. Thelma Calabio, KOSCI Board Member and Secretary and Chairman of Kalayaan Beauty Pageant, donning a blue Filipiniana attire, delivered onstage a meaningful remarks, extemporaneously, just before the arrival of Senator Pangilinan.

Ms. Lydia Soriano delivered a brief inspirational message, which was immediately followed by the fashion show, directed by Monet Lu.

Darna Umayam, Honorary Chairman of the Kalayaan Beauty Pageant, directed the presentation of Beauty Queens.

Mrs. Shirley Lumanog won in the popularity contest, and was crowned as Kalayaan Ambassador of Goodwill. She was crowned by Senator Pangilinan and Ms. Thelma Calabio, Chairperson of Kalayaan Beauty Pageant. "This is the first time I am doing this job," quips Kiko Pangilinan. To which Mrs. Lumanog retorted, "this is also my first time to be crowned as Queen." Other presentors of sash, trophy and boquet of flowers were Mayor Jim Dear, State Senator Jenny Oropeza, Frank Quiambao, Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal and Darna Umayam.

Mrs. Matilda Revolinski was crowned Kalayaan Queen USA 2007.

Following Revolinski is Mrs. Elvisa Rafanan, who was crowned Mrs. Senior Kalayaan Philippines 2007, while Estelita Valtiendas was crowned Mrs. Senior Kalayaan California 2007.

Two winners were proclaimed for the Mrs. Kalayaan category -- Mrs. Virginia Vivas, Mrs. Kalayaan U.S.A. 2007; and Mrs. Elena Jovenes Haddix, Mrs. Kalayaan Philippines 2007.

Miss Kalayaan Category

For the Miss Kalayaan category, the following were declared winners: Miss Michelle Calabio, Miss Kalayaan USA 2007; Miss Jacky Skelly, Miss Kalayaan Philippines 2007; Miss Lizette Ducut, Miss Kalayaan California 2007; and Miss Jeselle Dziuk, Miss Kalayaan Los Angeles 2007.

Miss Teen Kalayaan Category

Miss Jessica Clavering, Miss Teen Kalayaan USA 2007; Miss Mariah Ramos, Miss Teen Kalayaan Philppines 2007; Miss Sheila Padre, Miss Teen Kalayaan California 2007; and Miss Monique Tinio, Miss Teen Kalayaan Los Angeles 2007.

Presentors

A short list of presentors includes Senator Kiko Pangilinan who, along with Thelma Calabio, crowned Mrs. Shirley Lumanog, Kalayaan Ambassador of Goodwill 2007.

Other presentors were: State Senator Jenny Oropeza of the 18th District, who is running for a U.S. Congressional seat this month; Mayor Jim Dear of the City of Carson; Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal of the City of Long Beach, who officially welcomed the guests, the candidates and their relatives, as well as the winners in the golf, tennis and bowling tournaments; Lydia F. Soriano, President of KOSCI; Noel Omega, Vice President of KOSCI;
Johnny M. Pecayo, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES, and Rose de Ocampo, a well known businesswoman from Manila, who both hosted the presentation of crowns, trophies, sahes and boquet of flowers to 15 Kalayaan queens.

Frank Quiambao, currently Special Assistant to the Director of the Governor"s Office of Homeland Security was also one of the presentors. Prior to working for Gov. Schwarzenegger, he served 31 years in higer education as a teacher counselor and administrator. During his career he was president of two colleges, Los Angeles Harbor College and most recently West Los Angeles College.
Art Samontina, Chief Executive Officer of Prime Finance & Realty, one of the sponsors of the Kalayaan Beauty Pageant, was represented by Carlos & Marilou Balao in the Coronation Night.

Dr. Nick Agpalo, President of Eagle Rock Dental Care, who came with Esther Agpalo, RN, whose building on Eagle Rock, housing the dental facility, they own, also joined the list of presentors. He was also one of the sponsors of the event.

Another couple -- Josie Jones and Danny Bautista also sponsored the Kalayaan Beauty Pageant event. Josie is a nursing graduate of the Philippine Women's University. She is a Registered Nurse with a Masters Degree in Healthcare Administration from the University of La Verne. She is the owner and CEO of Admiral Home Health, Admiral Hospice Care, Alpha Hospice Care, and presently involved with real estate investments. She employs and contracts about 100 Nurses, Physical Therapists, Social Workers and other healthcare providers, including physicians to staff more than 200 patients in her health care businesses. Danny Bautista, on the other hand, is an economics degree graduate of the University of the Philippines and an MBA degree holder from UCLA. He has has always been involved with marketing and advertising endeavors both in the Philippines and in America. He is presently a business partner in Admiral Home Health and Admiral Hospice Care and takes care of finance and business development.

Atty, James Beirne, Immigration Lawyer, was represented by Romy Borje, a noted journalist in California.

Val Creus, who holds a double masters degrees in Taxation and Business Administration from USC, and formerly on the Management staff of Deloitte, the largest accounting and management consultancy firm in the world, is the President of the Creus Group of Company.

Joey San Andres, President and CEO of Y.E.S., Inc. (Your Environmental Solutions), and John Henry, Vice President-Marketing of Y.E.S., also participated in the presentation as one of the sponsors of the Pageant.

Beauteous Olivia Quido, Licensed Aesthetician and owner of O'Skin Care, along with Leo Maranan, President of the San Fernando Valley Filipino American Chamber of Commerce, crowned one of the queens. She also donated Gift Certificates redeemable in her skin care company.

Romeo Balboa, owner of Balboa Auto shop, and his wife, Josephine, a registered nurse, pinned the sash, and also presented the trophy.

Edith Knoch, current Mrs. Philippines-Universe, who is into healthcare business, along with businessman Vincent Singh, crowned one of the Queens.

The PPP-USA, headed by Rene Villaroman as president, along with Romeo M. Balboa, Bheth Edra, Gerry Edra, and other freelance photographers provided photo coverage throughout the night.

The organizers made a reservation for 200 people, over 300 people came, thereby running out of food, and they had to buy hamburgers from the neighboring stote outlets to serve to about 40 people more. Mayor Jim Dear of the City of Carson, who arrived after dinner, had to contend himself with a hamburger and a soda for his dinner.

THE MALE AND FEMALE MODELS pose after the fashion show, showcasing Barong Tagalog, directed by Monet Lu, President of Reflections. -- MUST PHOTO BY SID GUERRERO

MARIAH RAMOS, crowned as Miss Teen Kalayaan Philippines 2007 by Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal of Long Beach and Mayor Jim Dear of the City of Carson. Dr. Nick Agpalo, President of Eagle Rock Dental Care, and Josephine Balboa, RN, presented the trophy.





JESSICA CLAVERING, Miss Teen Kalayaan USA 2007, shown here complete with crown, sash, trophy and a bouquet of flowers. -- MUST PHOTO BY JIMMY PRESTO

SEN. KIKO PANGILINAN (4th from left) with (from left): Cesar Calangi of the Carfest Committee; Jessia Liu, Robertson Rubillar and Jacob Rubillar of Western Union. -- MUST PHOTO

KIKO P Visits MANILA-U.S. TIMES' Booth. Sen. Kiko Pangilinan proudly shows off a copy of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES along with (from left): Rose de Ocampo, a businesswoman from Manila; Johnny M. Pecayo, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES; Thelma Calabio, Managing Editor; and Ma. Hellen Barber, Consul, Philippine Consulate General-Los Angeles, when he visited the booth in his tour of the Expo Trade area. -- MUST PHOTO BY ROMEO M. BALBOA
















ELENA JOVENES HADDIX, crowned as Mrs. Kalayaan Philippines 2007 by Josephine Balboa and businessman Vincent Singh. Joey San Andres (2nd from right), President of Y.E.S., Inc. and John Henry, VP-Marketing, Y.E.S., Inc. presented the trophy. Y.E.S. Inc. co-sponsored the Kalayaan Beauty Pageant. -- MUST PHOTO BY ROMEO M. BALBOA




















ELVISA RAFANAN, crowned as Mrs. Senior Philippines 2007 by Leo Maranan, President of San Fernando Valley Filipino American Chamber of Commerce; and Olivia Quido, Owner of O'Skin Care, who donated gift certificates. -- MUST PHOTO BY JIMMY PRESTO











THELMA P. CALABIO, Chairman of Kalayaan Beauty Pageant, delivers an extemporaneous speech, welcoming the guests, family members, candidates, winners in the golf, tennis and bowling tournaments, organizers and dignitaries. -- MUST PHOTO BY NIC ARRIOLA

MANILA-U.S. TIMES'

Executive Profile of the Week



















GEL SANTOS RELOS

Balitang America Anchor does it with ease like a real pro

By Johnny M. Pecayo, MBA
Chairman-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES
http://www.manila-ustimes.com/

Gel Santos-Relos' name is now a by-word among the Filipino Americans household throughout the United States of America. Her astronomical rise to popularity, worldwide, could easily be attributed to how she professionally carries herself as TV Anchor of Balitang America, over at ABS-CBN Global TV, Channel 2, based in Northern California, the first ever daily newscast produced and presented by Filipinos on news that matter to the Filipino-Americans in North America .

She has just been the Anchorperson for this daily newscast since May 7, 2007, or barely over two months, but her presence on TV and her manner of delivery created an indelible mark that every Filipino in any part of the world is certainly very proud of her, and proud of themselves as well, as a Filipino.

People began noticing her when she became a Co-Host at CITIZEN PINOY with Atty. Michael J. Gurfinkel since September 2005. "They offered me this job when my family relocated from Minnesota to California in 2005," relates Gel to the MANILA-U.S. TIMES during the interview.

"Citizen Pinoy is now filming Season 5 and has been touching the lives of Filipinos wherever they may be, bringing information and public service on matters pertaining to US immigration laws, inspired by the mission of bringing families together," Gel pointed out.

Media Work Experience in the Philippines

Performing media task in the U.S. is not foreign to her, having had a wealth of experience in media work in the Philippines prior to migrating to U.S. in 2001.

In the academe, Gel Santos was an Instructor in Broadcast Communication, University of the Philippines' College of Mass Communication from 1984-1991. She hosted for ABS-CBN’s "Tatak Pilipino," a multi-awarded TV magazine on Philippine arts and culture, with Jim Paredes (of the APO Hiking fame) from 1989-1994.

For a year, from 1998 to 1999, Gel was the Producer/Host for ABS-CBN’s ANC “Tatak Pinoy.” Prior to this, she anchored and produced radio public affairs programs for ABS-CBN’s DZMM like “Relos Reports,” a news commentary program; and “Companero y Companera,” a talk program discussing and dramatizing legal problems of Filipinos, with advice portion given by the late Sen. Rene Cayetano, and other lawyers thereafter like Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, UP Professor Atty. Danny Concepcion, lawyers from the Integrated Bar of the Philippines, and some human interest discussions with psychologists, which she performed with gusto from 1989 to 2001.

She was part of the triumvirate in hosting the Public Affairs programs for ABS-CBN in the Philippines, the highly popular “Hoy!Gising!” with Korina Sanchez and Ted Failon which she did with flying colors from 1993 to1998; followed by “Companero y Companera”1997-1998 with the late Senator Rene Cayetano.

This beauteous TV personality was newscaster for ABS-CBN in the Philippines for Balita Ngayon, TV Patrol, Pulso, and Headlines from 1987 to 2001.

A multi-talented individual, Gel wrote columns about the Filipino culture for Filipino Magazine, and other major publications about the law and how they apply to letter senders’ problems.

Other Work Experience in the Philippines

She was the PR Manager at Century Park Sheraton Hotel, 1993, while at the same time working for three years as Branch Manager, Fil-Estate Marketing Associates, from 1992 to1995.

Educational Attainment

Gel graduated cum laude from the University of the Philippines' College of Mass Communication, then took post-graduate units toward a Master’s Degree in Communication.

While in college, she enjoyed stints as radio drama actress for DWWW in Manila , co- hosted variety show “Karnabal Dos” for BBC-2, did supporting roles for drama anthologies for RPN-9, and acted in several community theater presentations.

She participated in the United States Information Agency Multi-regional Course on Public Journalism, and represented the Philippines in 1997.

Other Work Experiences in the US

Prior to moving to California, Gel and her family were based in New Jersey, where she was the Director for Marketing at Merry Heart Health Care Center for a year, 2001 to 2002.

She pursued a career in real estate business, by undergoing a five-week classes in Principles of Real Estate, taking the government real estate examination to obtain a license, and becoming a realtor. Gel is now affiliated with PMZ Real Estate, the biggest and most successful real estate firm in the Central Valley.

"My clients are mostly Filipinos and I am humbled and privileged to have the opportunity to help our kababayans to understand the challenging process of buying, selling and investing in real estate in the US, and more importantly, in helping the Filipino families make their dreams come true," she proudly told the MANILA-U.S. TIMES.

Family

Gel was born in Manila , Philippines to Atty. Jose Santos and Angelita Quintana Concepcion, and was Christened with the full name MARIA ANGELINA CONCEPCION SANTOS.

Since childhood, she has always excelled in the field of performing arts, and has relentlessly dreamed of being on television and films when she grows up. Today, her personal dream as well as her American dream have been realized.

She is married to Dr. Rene P. Relos, a surgeon who graduated Valedictorian and magna cum laude from the University of the Philippines' College of Medicine, with whom she is blessed with four children -- Christopher, 22, a pre-law student; Christine, 19, a Psychology freshman; Katrina, 10; and Lorenzo, 9.

Gel was granted Permanent Resident Status (Green Card) as an Alien with Extraordinary Abilities, "based on all the awards that I got in the exercise of my profession -- Best Magazine Show Host for "Tatak Pilipino," Best Radio Public Affairs Host and Best Radio Commentator for my DZMM anchoring job, Best TV Public Affairs Host for "Hoy!Gising!," Best Radio Drama for "Companero y Companera, The Drama," of which I was the producer and host," she related. These awards were given by Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas (KBP) Golden Dove Awards, Catholic Mass Media Awards, and Star Awards.

The Relos family presently resides in the Brookside community in Stockton , California after being residents of Pennsylvania , New Jersey and Minnesota.

"I love my work as a broadcast journalist because I have always felt that my calling was to help educate and inspire people and, with radio and television, supplemented by my work as a real estate professional, I am privileged to accomplish this mission to a bigger number of people through the mass media. What an honor for me, really, to be featured in your publication," she told the MANILA-U.S. TIMES in the conclusion of the interview.

GEL SANTOS-RELOS inside the ABS-CBN studio with the familiar signature logo, "Balitang America."

GEL SANTOS-RELOS and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel with the facade of ABS-CBN providi

ng an imposing backdrop.

GEL is shown here with her husband, Dr. Rene P. Relos, and children -- Christopher, Christina, Katrina and Lorenzo.

GEL (left), an unidentified lady participant in Citizen Pinoy in the middle, and Atty. Michael Gurfinkel, Host of CITIZEN PINOY.

ABOUT JOHNNY M. PECAYO

Click here to read more about Johnny Pecayo
http://johnnypecayo.blogspot.com/

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Manila-U.S. Times

Executive Profile of the Week
Hon. Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan
SEN. KIKO PANGILINAN

The Youngest to become Councilor is also the youngest to become Senator since 1937

Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan, Senate Majority Leader, is the youngest to assume the post since 1937. He was the Special Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker at the June 8, 9 and 10, 2007 celebration of the 109th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence.

In the early stage of his political career, Pangilinan was elected as the youngest City Councilor in Quezon City in 1988. He became Minority Leader, Quezon City Legislative Council, from 1991-1992.

He holds a masters degree in Public Administration. His Area of Concentration: Strategic Management, which he obtained from the John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts, U.S.A.

He earned his Bachelor of Laws degree from College of Law, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City.

A double-degree holder, Kiko, as he is fondly called, also finished his Bachelor of Arts in English degree, Major in Comparative Literature, College of Arts and Letters, University of the Philippines.

He went to La Salle Greenhills in Mandaluyong City for his secondary and primary education.

Professional Qualifications

He has been a member of the Philippine Senate since 2001, and was recently re-lected with a commanding lead throughout the Philippine archipelago, and all over the world, where there are Filipinos who participated in the May 14 midterm electoral process.

Top 12 Senators

In North America, Pangilinan was the Topnotcher. He garnered the highest votes of 2,453, as contained in the Certificate of Canvass of Votes duly signed by the Special Board of Canvassers -- Domingo Nolasco, Chairman; Consul Gines D. Gallaga, Vice Chairman; and Cynthia D. Tayam, Secretary, which the MANILA-U.S. TIMES obtained from the Philippine Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Following him closely were: (2) Ralph G. Recto, 2,089; (3) Joker P. Arroyo, 2,083; (4) Manuel B. Villar, Jr., 2,060; (5) Benigno Aquino III, 2,030; (6) Loren B. Legarda, 2,041; (7) Edgardo J. Angara, 1,685; (8) Michael T. Defensor, 1,593; (9) Aquilino L. Pimentel III, 1,461; (10) Vicente P. Magsaysay, 1,457; (11) Panfilo M. Lacson, 1,417; and (12) Sonia M. Roco, 1,388.

It is interesting to note that these votes were cast without any influence from anyone. This was the true pulse of the Filipino-Americans. While Loren Legarda is ranked No. 1 in the Philippines, she is No. 6 in the U.S., and Francis Escudero, No. 2 in the Philippines, did not make it to the Magic 12. He garnered 1,333 votes only.

Responsible Positions in the Senate

Pangilinan occupies other responsible positions in the Philippine Senate, as Chairperson, Committee on Rules, with jurisdiction on all matters relating to the Rules of the Senate; the Calendar as well as Parliamentary Rules and the order and manner of transacting business and the creation of committees.

From August 2001 to present, Kiko has been the Senate Representative to the Judicial and Bar Council, a constitutional body tasked to review and recommend appointments of justices and judges in the Philippine Judiciary.

From February 10, 2003 to January 2004, Kiko was the Chairperson, Committee on Education, Arts and Culture, which managed matters within the Senate jurisdiction relating to the promotion and development of the state education of the country and the preservation, enrichment and evolution of Filipino Arts and Culture.

From August 2001 to January 12, 2004, Kiko was the Chairman, Committee on Justice and Human Rights. He was and is a principal in the struggle for reforms in the Philippines Judicial System and the upholding of Human Rights. He also chaired the Committee on Urban Planning, Housing and Resettlement, as well as the Committee on Ethics and Privileges, with jurisdiction over matters relating to the conduct, rights, provileges, safety, dignity, integrity and reputation of the Senate and its members.

Senator Pangilinan authored and sponsored a number of important and relevant bills in the Senate, like the Juvenile Justice and Welfare Act; Improvement on the salaries and benefits to justices, judges and memberf of the Judiciary; strenghtening and rationalizing the National Prosecution Service; Anti-domestic Violence Bill; curtailing Entertainment and Media Piracy in the Philippines; Anti-Money Laundering; Prohibiting the Imposition of Death Penalty; Human Rights Consciousness; National Service Training Program; Citizenship Retention Act; Filipino Overseas Absentee-Voting; Amending the Philippine Teachers Professionalization; Creation and conversion of various State universities and colleges; Creation of local courts; and Amending the Labor Code of the Philippines, by rationalizing the Composition and Functions of the National Labor Relations Commission.

Affiliation

Pangilinan is the Chairman of the Liberal Party of the Philippines, the second oldest political party in the Philippines.

Mediaman

Prior to getting elected senator, Kiko Pangilinan was Anchorperson, "Barangay Dos TV Show" ABS-CBN Channel 2 (2000-2001); Anchorperson, "Relos Report with Atty. Kiko" over DZMM 630 khz. (1999-2001); Anchorperson, "Batas" over DZMM 630 khz.(1998-2001); Co-anchor, "Hoy Gising" TV Show ABS-CBN (1993-1997); Legal Analyst, ABS-CBN Broadcasting Corporation, News and Current Affairs Department (1993-2001); Head, Legal Desk, ABS-CBN (1998-2001); and Anchorperson, DZMM Aksyon Ngayon (1994-1997).

Academe

Senator Pangilinan was a lecturer on Civil Law, Political Law and Labor Law,Department of Management, Ateneo de Manila University (1993-2000).

International Conferences and Delegations

The Senate Majority Leader in the following: -- Law and Justice: The Caseof Parliamentary Scrutiny Association of the Prevention of Torture, theInter-Parliamentary Union and the International Commission Jurist in Geneva,Switzerland, 25-27 September 2006; ASEAN 100 Leadership Forum,Singapore, September 28-29, 2005; Parliamentary Visit to the People's Republic of China, April 6-11, 2004; Asia Pacific Agenda Project Forum 2004, March 19-21, 2004; Tokyo, Japan; 4th ASEF Young Parliamentarians Meeting,October 17-20, 2002, Venice, Italy; Senate Representative to President GloriaMacapagal-Arroyo's State Visit to the People?s Republic of China and Hong Kong, October 28-November 1, 2001; and Financial Underpinnings of Terrorism, August 6-8, 2001, Washington D.C., U.S.A.

Awards and Recognition

Testimonial of Appreciation to Senator Kiko Pangilinan, for institutionalizing CourtAnnexed/Referred Mediation Program in the Philippines and the establishment ofthe Philippine Mediation Center, San Fernando, Pampanga; Supreme Court of thePhilippines/Philippine Judicial Academy/Philippine Mediation Center/USAID &Asia Foundation presented. November 2006;

Most Outstanding Kapampangan Award for Public Service for 2002 -- San Fernando, Pampanga, October 2002;

University Medal of Honor for Exemplary Performance in Public Service --Angeles University Foundation, Angeles City, Pampanga, March 2002.

Certificate of Recognition -- Exemplary Contributions in the Field ofInvestigative Journalism and the Criminal Justice System, Crusade Against Violence (CAV) in 1996.


Pangilinan Family

SENATOR FRANCIS "Kiko" PANGILINAN, shown here with wife, Sharon Cuneta, and daughters Simone Francesca Emmanuelle, Mariel Daniella Sophia and Ma. Kristina Cassandra (right).

Kiko Pangilinan is married to Philippine Megastar Sharon Cuneta, with whom he has two daughters -- Simone Francesca Emmanuelle and Mariel Daniella Sophia. Sharon has a grown-up daughter, Ma. Kristina Cassandra, also a singer, by her estranged husband Gabby Concepcion. But as a doting father, Senator Kiko has adopted KC as his own and showered her with endless love and blessings a biological father would do. KC is now a Pangilinan, although she does still go by her biological father's family name. It was only recently that KC saw her biological father in the US (for the first time in 10 years) which was a surreal experience for her, but for more than half her life, she grew up calling Senator Kiko "dad," and he is the dad she knows.














SENATOR KIKO PANGILINAN (seated at the presidential table, 2nd from left), with from left: Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon of the Philippine Consulate General-Los Angeles; State Senator Jenny Oropeza, and Kalayaan of Southern California, Inc. (KOSCI) President Lydia F. Soriano. Standing (left to right) are: Jush Andowitt, Publicity and Marketing Consultant, Polaris Media & Marketing; Johnny M. Pecayo, Chairman-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES, and Chairman PR & Publicity Committee, KOSCI; and Rene Ramos, Director of Operations & Marketing, El Pollo Loco. -- MUST PHOTO BY BHETH EDRA

Sen. Kiko Pangilinan extolls Filipino virtues at Kalayaan celebration

By Johnny M. Pecayo
Chairman-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES

LONG BEACH, CA -- The Kalayaan of Southern California, Inc. (KOSCI), a non-profit organization registered in the State of California under 501 (c)(3), spearheaded this year's celebration of the 109th Anniversary of the Declaration of Philippine Independence, in collaboration with the Philippine Consulate General, headed by newly promoted Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon.

Businesswoman and real estate broker Lydia F. Soriano, President of KOSCI, was on top of the whole event, being the overall chair of the three-day celebration.

The highly successful event could be attributed to the joint effort of Ms. Soriano, along with the KOSCI Board Members and committee chairs, who spent time and effort in putting together precious resources to ensure the execution of the program plans for the Kalayaan Beauty Pageant, chaired by Thelma Calabio; the Gala Night and Banquet; and the two-day Trade Expo and Carfest, chaired by Noel Omega, held June 8-10 at the Long Beach Convention Center, and co-chaired by Leo Maranan and Cesar Calangi.

Consul General Aragon was given the task to introduce the keynote speaker, but before doing so, she gave her own, then read verbatim the message of Foreign Affairs Secretary Alberto Romulo. Aragon mentioned that among the bills authored and sponsored by Senator Pangilinan was Republic Act 9227, improving the salary and providing benefits to Justices and Judges and other members of the Judiciary.
She also requested, on behalf of the Foreign Service, to also sponsor similar bill that would call for increasing the salaries and fringe benefits to employees and officers of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Pangilinan is Keynote Speaker

Newly re-elected Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan was the Special Guest of Honor and Keynote Speaker at the Independence celebration and Gala Night on June 9. He also attended the June 8 Coronation Night, and crowned Ms. Shirley Lumanog, Kalayaan's Ambassador of Goodwill which, according to him, was his first time to crown a beauty queen.

In his remarks, Sen. Pangilinan told a huge audience of over 1,200 people, who came resplendent in their Barong Tagalog and Filipiniana attire, that the Philippines owes it to its own heroes the freedom and independence that it celebrates annually.

As an elected official, Sen. Pangilinan cannot help but mention the recent midterm election that catapulted him to No. 1 Senator among the Filipino American voters, and ranked No. 1 also in Europe. Overall, Sen. Pangilinan ranked No. 5 in terms of votes garnered in the May 14 midterm elections.

"I ran for a senate seat as an independent based on my principles and conviction and my belief that politics as usual was no longer the road to victory," the Senate Majority Leader told the huge audience, consistent with his earlier statement during breakfast which he shared with this writer during the exclusive interview.

Pundits and my fellow re-electionists for Senator thought it was a political suicide to run as an independent. "They told me it was a political suicide because I do not have the needed political machinery to run as an independent candidate. But I proved them wrong when I garnered one of the highest numbers of votes and was officially proclaimed last Wednesday, along with nine others," he said.

"People are looking for new leaders who can walk the extra mile to sacrifice for our people. Politics as usual is no longer the road to victory," he pointed out, adding that "it was the right thing to do."

"I had asked for Mrs. Arroyo's resignation two years ago," said the Senate Majority Leader. Prior to that I went to EDSA Dos during the time of then President Joseph Ejercito Estrada." Those bold actions precluded him from joining either the Genuine Opposition or Team Unity.

"Our leaders should have a word of honor. They should have principles and conviction," the visiting senator declared.

Moving on, Senator Pangilinan cited economic comparison and statistics during a 20-year period 1981 until 2001, when the per capita income of China grew 400 per cent; Thailand by 100 per cent; Malaysia by 150 per cent. During the same period, the Philippines per capita income grew by a mere 0.75 per cent. "We slept for 20 years. We have been left behind, due to poor governance," he said.

History

"I am relatively still young at 43," he revealed. He told the Kalayaan attendees that the nation is ready for young leaders.

Philippine history had shown young men galvanized great events which brought about changes in Philippine society. "Jose Rizal was 28 when he wrote 'Noli Me Tangere.' Andres Bonifacio was 29 when he led Katipunan movement. Emilio Aguinaldo was was 29 when he declared our independence from Spain and made our country the first democracy in Asia," cited Pangilinan.

"We cannot do it by ourselves (people in the Philippines). Let us come together, do our share and move our country forward together," Kiko Pangilinan urged.

KC Graduates

"We must do whatever we can to contribute to our country's growth so we can leave a legend. In 10 years, my daughter KC (Ma. Kristina Cassandra) who has just graduated from college, could ask me what I did when our country was in crisis and was having many problems. I would like to reply to her something that I could be proud of. [Over lunch, Senator Kiko told this writer that KC obtained a degree in International Communication from the University of Paris and graduated last May 24. The whole family -- Kiko & Sharon Cuneta and daughters, Simone Francesca Emmanuelle and Mariel Daniella Sophia -- along with their housemaid and Fannie Serrano, attended the graduation.]

"Our nation will finally move forward because of our commitment, our stand and our dedication," he said.

Senator Pangilinan said that overseas Filipinos will be able to influence the results of elections in the Philippines because of its increasing number of voters. "In the next 10 years, the number of overseas absentee voters would reach the million mark. By then, you would be a major force in Philippine elections. You are the missing middle class, and you have a role in shaping the future of our country. You are experiencing a better life abroad, and you will not settle for less."

The youthful senator told the audience that his grandfather was an American citizen, the reason why he was able to study here. "I experienced shopping for food at Oriental markets, to miss the country and to miss adobo -- the reason why speaking to you here is always a sentimental experience for me."

"Every time I am invited to speak abroad, I always get two questions -- "Did I bring Sharon (Cuneta, the Mega Star), and do I look better on television or in person?" The answer to that is "No," because Sharon is taking care of our children back home, and I look better in person than on television.

He went on: "I am 43 years old, pero kapag bagong gupit ako ay parang 29 lang. Sabi nga nila hindi daw ako telegenic dahil mas gwapo daw ako sa personal. At d'yan patay na patay sa akin si Sharon. Pero huwag na ninyong ipagsasabi dahil kapag nakarating iyan kay Sharon ako naman ang patay." (I am 43 years old, but with a new haircut, I look like a 29-year-old young man. They say I am not telegenic which means I am more handsome in person. That's why Sharon likes me very much. But keep this to yourselves because once it reaches Sharon, she will kill me). This light banter brought the house down.

The usual photo op took place just after the program, followed by dancing, interspersed with raffling of prizes, with the round-trip ticket, LAX-MNL-LAX, courtesy of Eva Air, won by Clarina Pio Roda, President and CEO of Heritage Home Loans, based in Covina, California.

Other VIPs who joined the celebration were State Senator Jenny Oropeza of the 28th District of California; Mayor Jim Dear of Carson; Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal of the City of Long Beach, representing Mayor Bob Foster, who was out of town that weekend; Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon of the Philippine Consulate General-Los Angeles; Mayor Antonio Cartagena of Walnut, California; Archbishop Oscar Solis of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles; Consul Ma. Hellen Barber, Mayor Pro Tem Elito Santarina of Carson; Mayor Rusty Balderian of Tabon-Tabon, Leyte, Frank Quiambao, Special Assistant to the Director, Office of Homeland Security, State Capitol, Sacramento; Mayor Manuel Lozano of Baldwin Park and other elected officials of surrounding cities.

Invitations have also been extended to California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, Los Angeles City Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa (who sent a beautiful message); Congressman Adam B. Schiff; Mayor Ara James Najarian of Glendale, who also sent a meaningful message; Zoning Administrator Edith Fuentes, highest-ranking Filipino American in the City of Glendale; business owners, business executives, professionals, community leaders and members of the press.

ABS-CBN Global, along with local print media, covered the Gala Night and Banquet. Film clips of the interview with Sen. Pangilinan were aired over Channel 2, the Filipino Channel, based in Northern California, through its Bureau chief, Regina Reyes.

Senator Pangilinan's speech was interrupted more than five times with thundering applause, and was given standing ovation at the end of his speech.

The Gala Night was hosted by Noel Omega, Vice President of KOSCI.

In the early morning of June 9, Senator Pangilinan cut the ribbon to open to public the two-day Trade Expo and Carfest, then spent time visiting every booth and talking to individual exhibitors. The group in charge of the Carfest met with the Senator and showed the Senator around to take a close look at the classic cars on display.

SENATOR FRANCIS "Kiko" PANGILINAN (right), with (from left): Lydia Soriano, Rose de Ocampo and Noel Omega, Gala Night's Master of Ceremonies. -- MUST PHOTO BY ROMEO M. BALBOA

VIPs shown here (from left): Vice Mayor Bonnie Lowenthal of Long Beach; Mayor Jim Dear of the City of Carson; Thelma Calabio, Chairperson of Kalayaan Beauty Pageant; Senator Kiko Pangilinan, Johnny M. Pecayo, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES; and State Senator Jenny Oropesa. -- MUST PHOTO BY BHETH DELA CRUZ

BENNETTE IBANEZ, Coronation Night Host, Lydia Soriano, Josie de Jesus, Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon, Darna Umayam, and Mrs. Elvisa Rafanan, Mrs. Senior Kalayaan-Philippines 2007. -- MUST PHOTO BY JIMMY PRESTO

KALAYAAN Coronation Night Hosts Johnny Pecayo and Rose de Ocampo from Manila. -- MUST PHOTO BY BHETH EDRA

RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONY. Senator Kiko Pangilinan cuts the ribbon to officially open the two-day Trade Expo and Carfest at the Long Beach Convention Center. -- MUST PHOTO BY ROMEO M. BALBOA

SHOWN with Senator Francis "Kiko" Pangilinan (from left) are: Consuelo Balagtas, Myrna Keyes and Bob Keyes. "I really like the speech delivered by Senator Pangilinan, especially when he mentioned about the middle class. If ever Kiko would run for President, we will go back home to give him full support. We will campaign for him," chorused Myrna and Bob. -- MUST PHOTO BY BHETH EDRA

LYDIA F. SORIANO, President of Kalayaan of Southern California, Inc. (KOSCI), and Overall Chairperson of Kalayaan 2007, delivers a message. -- MUST PHOTO BY ROMEO BALBOA

MATILDA REVOLINSKI, resplendent in her Filipinia dress with crown, sash and trophy. -- MUST PHOTO BY JIMMY PRESTO

SENATOR KIKO PANGILINAN gamely poses and displays a copy of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES infront of MUST's booth. He is shown here with (from left): Rose de Ocampo, PRO, Philippines-KOSCI; Johnny M. Pecayo, Chairman-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, MANILA-U.S. TIMES; Thelma P. Calabio, Managing Editor; and Ma. Hellen Barber, Consul, Philippine Consulate General-Los Angeles. -- MUST PHOTO BY ROMEO M. BALBOA

SHIRLEY LUMANOG emerged victorious to be crowned Kalayaan Ambassador of Goodwill, and is included in the Ambassador's and Consuls General tours to the Philippines on July 12. The group will have the opportunity for the sight-seeing in the local tourist spots, appearance on TV, and meeting with the President at Malacanan Palace. -- MUST PHOTO BY NIC ARRIOLA