GAWAD KALINGA INVITED TO CLINTON GLOBAL INITIATIVE

Jose Luis Oquinena

The Clinton Global Initiative has just concluded its third annual conference in New York. The CGI is a non-profit endeavor, launched by President Bill Clinton in 2005, that brings together a highly diverse membership base representing the full spectrum of political, ideological, religious, ethnic, and geographic backgrounds. Included in this are current and former heads of state, top business executives, preeminent scholars, and representatives of key non-governmental organizations, all working together for a common cause.

According to the Initiative website, "Participation is by invitation only, limited to a select and diverse group of heads of state, CEOs, media voices, philanthropists and foundation heads, religious leaders, original thinkers and those who run highly effective non-profit organizations."

The only Filipino organization invited this year was Couples For Christ's Gawad Kalinga, represented by its executive director, Jose Luis Oquinena. The invitation surprised Luis, because the Clinton Global Initiative and Gawad Kalinga had never had any engagement. Queries sent by Gawad Kalinga on why it was invited were simply answered, "We did some checking."

A high-profile international conference attended by the most known and reputable of organizations and special individuals who have become icons in their fields of interest was the last thing that Luis or Gawad Kalinga had expected to attend. But while many in the conference had contributed thousands of dollars each to help the conference attain the status it deserved, the Clinton Global Initiative underwrote the trip and attendance of Gawad Kalinga's young executive director.

Surprises did not stop there for Luis, though. The conference was graced by chosen political leaders who governed nations deeply and aggressively involved in the key concerns of the global body, either as donors, implementers or visionaries. Without knowing personally any of the delegates who were there, Luis sat beside a man who later stood up when introduced to the body as Ted Turner, the owner of CNN.

Other delegates included the Gates Foundation, Bloomberg News, the more known experts in global health, interveners in global poverty, respected global leaders of the environment, and those involved in trend-setting programs of education for the less fortunate.

Engaged in four strategic areas -- health, poverty, environment and education -- the Who's Who of global found themselves together on three momentous days to share insights from work they had done and to form new relationships to further the critical sharing of resources. In the words of the CGI, "...the Initiative attempts to create a composition that matches people who have resources with those who have the most innovative ideas." -- GK News Bureau

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GK Executive Director Luis Oquinena: Thoughts on the Conference

Impressions

"In the first place, it was a gathering of powerful individuals, and individuals representing powerful groups whose main concern was addressing certain global issues like education, poverty, global health and the environment, basically the climate change, global warming. "

"Personally, it was just an amazing experience to see how many groups there are who are wanting to do good. Looking at it in a perspective, well it's my own personal belief that there is a higher power that is orchestrating all the goodness that was gathered in that conference whether they are conscious of it or not."

"Me, looking in, I felt that God is really inspiring goodness from everyone. And GK being part of it, I believe we were the only Filipino organization that was invited to be there. "

Gawad Kalinga, in this context

It was a powerful experience for me. One, (I saw) how unique GK is compared to many of the initiatives. Many are focusing on issues while GK is using the issues to build the nation. The issues of poverty and hunger, we see that and we want to address that but we want to, in the process, unite our people because we believe that at the heart of our poverty is our being a divided nation. So, that sets GK unique from the many initiatives.

Secondly, majority of the initiatives were centered on micro-finance, wherein they articulated that it's really gender equality to empower the women. But on the other hand, GK is saying that our brand of solution is no, we need to empower the men, that at the heart of our poverty, at least in the Philippines, is the failure of men to provide, to protect and to be a pastor to his own family.

And at the heart of poverty, is how do we empower the men to take responsibility. Again, it sets GK apart.

I am hopeful that in more mature areas, micro-finance can be adopted in the GK way, but looking at the initiative at that conference, that was one unique feature that we have as Gawad Kalinga.

The third one really is being fueled by faith. We had a lot of really intellectual groups there. GK is really fueled by the heart - That now is attracting a lot of science to put systems, order in to what is really driven by heart, that is, passion born out of love for God and country.

These are my personal realizations.

Working Across Faith Boundaries

They were talking about extremism. We need to really look at the whole. Like what Bishop Desmond Tutu said that let us help God fulfill his dream - which is to unite his family. And this family include the Hindus, Muslims, the Christians.

So that is very very affirming for Gk because we really look at our nation as different, unique groups but really loving them equally without discrimination.

The Road Forward

On the practical side, I was able to experience contacts with some powerful groups who we will correspond with after the conference. But the main challenge for us now coming back is are we prepared for the big league? That's the challenge now for GK.

First, we need to raise more (Couples For Christ) Caretaker Teams, and we need to begin to really seriously establish our Regional Centers so that we can decentralize the operations from the national (office), closer to the sites.

And thirdly, yes, we need to capture more good news so that more people will appreciate GK through the fruits of GK, more than the philosophy, more than maybe the Biblical anchors, more than personal opinions like from myself or from Tito Tony (Meloto, former Executive Director and current promoter of GK).

But really more from the fruits, from the ground, from the volunteers, from the poor, capture that and really share it in a more massive way. And the internet has a big role in the future for that - this GK1World direction that we're having, it will really play a big role.

It's the big league now and we need to really scale up. And we know what we have, the potential of GK, the promise of GK. But we need to be prepared to play in that arena of powerful players. The simple fact that we appeared in the radar screen of that powerful gathering, is already a tremendous affirmation for all GK volunteers, for all those who are really working hard in the GK site, for all the full time workers giving their life to this. That we are on the right track. It's not the affirmation but these are signs that will bring us to greater glory. But at the end of the day, our success is our obedience to God more than the results that can be measured.

Goals from the Conference

They wanted a commitment from us. I'm drafting a commitment, in terms of the area of poverty - in shelter and productivity - and in the area of global health, in terms of nutrition and pediatrics. Like raising the health care volunteers which is very, very crucial. I think we need to raise at least 2500 to 3,000 health care volunteers to prepare the massive health program for GK. Filipinos abroad, with Dr. Boy Abay, who's leading the campaign, they have a huge, huge heart for GK and the poor, a very patriotic group. But we need to prepare the ground for them.

For the houses, off-hand, we have about P250 million houses from DSWD (Department of Social and Welfare Development) for the first quarter of next year, so we need to prepare for that. That's 5 million dollars and I haven't heard a commitment during the conference that was even close to five million dollars.

2 MEN & d' LADIES

Bosam Production puts together "The Man with a Thousand Faces," and "The Total Entertainer"

VALLEJO, CA -- "This November, you’re in for a vibrant, hilarious and pulsating evening," reports Jocel de Castro of Bosam Productions.

"A few weeks from now, or exactly on November 30, 2007 @ 8pm, Friday, at the Mc Cormack Hall, Solano County Fair, 900 Fairground Drive, Vallejo, CA 94589, Bosam Productions will bring to you for the first time, "The Man with a Thousand Faces," Willie Nepomuceno, who will go on-stage side by side with "The Total Entertainer," Rico J Puno -- two legends in the field of Philippine showbiz and entertainment. Together, they will relive hits and characters that have tickled audiences around the world for the past three decades.

To add pizzazz to the show, these gentlemen will be joined by the hottest female performers in Philippine show business today, Andrea Del Rosario, Sheree, Myles Hernandez and Ella V.

This kind of entertainment seldom comes to California, and Bosam Productions requests you not to miss this ultimate entertainment experience -- 2 Men & d’ Ladies.

For more info please call 1-877-66BOSAM (Bosam Productions), (707)-655-7710 (Jocel De Castro), or (707) 853-0437 (Clarice Burgos)

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The Evolution of Bosam Productions

The name Bosam emanates from the nickname and the last name of the executive producer -- Glenn "Boyet" Samson -- put together and aptly coined "Bosam," (short for Boyet Samson), as his friends and associates fondly call him.

Now in operation for more than a decade, Bosam Productions has been very active and visible in producing Filipino concerts. Their most recent successful show at the Pala Casino Resort Spa in Pala , CA was last July 1, 2007, featuring Basil Valdez, Zsa-Zsa Padilla and Agot Isidro -- proof that the people behind BOSAM Productions will go a long way.

Based in San Francisco, most of Bosam Productions shows shows had been concentrated in San Francisco , Oakland and Vallejo . When opportunity knocks to produce a show at the Pala Casino, they didn’t give it a second thought. As what Glenn Samson, has said, “It has been our pleasure and privilege to bring to you the greatest artists, celebrities and performances from our beloved Philippines . Aside from offering quality entertainment, our productions seek to bridge the geographical divide and give you a little taste of home, by presenting to you the best and latest in Filipino talent and culture.”

Aside from producing shows by Filipino artists from the Philippines , Bosam Productions' mission is to discove local Filipino talents with the hope that this will serve as a stepping stone for their road to success, relates Jocel de Castro, younger sister of Bosam who, along with her sisters, takes care of marketing, advertising, production management, that includes planning, logistics and negotiation with the promoters and talent managers both in the U.S. and in the Philippines.

From their very first show at the Banquet in Vallejo , California where they started, to their recent show at the Pala Casino in Pala , California, they have discovered and helped a lot of talented Filipino singers and dancers to perform in front of hundreds of people and fulfill their dreams.

Olivia Jasmine Hurst who hales from Fairfield , California was one of their regular front act singers until she joined the Star Circle Quest held in San Francisco in 2005 as part of ABS-CBN talent search. She was one of the lucky winners and was sent to the Philippines to compete with thousands of aspiring actors, singers and performers. Her biggest break was when she joined the American Idol last year and made it to the top 15 finalist.

As she was quoted, Tita Clarice Burgos, Bosam Productions Marketing and Advertising Manager, "gave me the opportunity to develop my talent and passion to singing and gave me the confidence to believe in myself."

“Aside from Olivia, we are also proud of the accomplishments of our very own local performers like Angel Bayon, Nieva Toriega, Sarah Jane Gloria and Amie Badua who are already making names for themselves,” Clarice related.

Past Concert Productions

Some of the shows already produced by Bosam Productions were Angela Velez, “Bare It All”, "Aiza Seguera Live," Rica Peralejo 2004 US Concert Tour, "One on One with Carol Banawa," and Dessa in 2005.

In 2006, Bosam Productions was given its biggest break when Lerma dela Cruz Cailles of Berce Enterprises offered them to produce Piolo Pascual, Rica Peralejo and Sam Milby’s first US Tour Concert entitled, "Renditions." This was held at the Scottish Rite Auditorium in Oakland where they performed in front of the unstoppable screeming crowd. This paved the way to the never-ending US and Canada tour of Piolo Pascual and Sam Milby as their fans clamor to see and hear them sing again and again.

Bosam Productions soon produced another show in just a few months later. This features the Undisputed Concert Queen of the Philippines , the always glamorous and ever-beautiful Ms. Pops Fernandez. A multi-talented recording artist, actress, host, and writer, Pops is best known for her incredible and unforgettable performances on the concert stage.

Of course, accompanying a queen should be none other than a king. Joining her was the Concert King himself, the dashing and irrepressible, Martin Nievera. Famed for his sentimental stylings and energetic routines, Martin’s numerous hit albums and sold-out concerts attest to his enduring appeal, as he remains one of the top performers both in the Philippines and abroad.

But that’s not all! For the fans' pleasure, Bosam Productions had also invited another famous celebrity couple, Dingdong Avanzado and Jessa Zaragoza. Mr. Avanzado is a multi-platinum recording artist and dynamic concert performer, adored by male and female romantics for his popular love anthems like "Basta’t Kasama Kita", "Tatlong Biente Singko," and "Walang Kapalit." His better half, singer-actress Jessa Zaragoza, is one of the bestselling female artists in the Philippines for her hit phenomenal " Bakit Pa, " which became a nationwide craze that earned her the title Jukebox Queen.

Bosam Productions started the year 2007 with an unforgettable romantic evening show at the Pala Casino Resort in Pala , California, featuring the Philippines' premier male vocalist, Basil Valdez, whose soulful voice and charming appeal captured the hearts of Original Pilipino Music (OPM) fans for decades with his classics "Ngayon at Kailaman," and "Kastilyong Buhangin." Performing with him were two of the most-enduring voices in the Philippine music industry – Agot Isidro and Zsa Zsa Padilla.

Last July 28, Bosam Productions produced Pinoy Dream Academy, Yeng Constatino, Ronnie Liang, Ryan Jay Jimenez and JR Siaboc with Makisig Morales, Ann Curtis and Luis Manzano at the South San Francisco High School Auditorium in South San Francisco, CA.

Then last August 11, it did the MYMP with Orange and Lemons at the Plaza Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas , Nevada.

Executive Producer Glenn Samson said that, “The success of Bosam Productions would not have been possible without the support of key people who gave their time, passion and expertise to make this venture a success. I would like to thank Lerma Dela Cruz Cailles and Ms. Nancy Young for believing in us. To all the Productions staff, to all our advertisers and sponsors, we truly appreciate your trust in us and we hope your being part of our show is fulfilling and worthwhile. And to all of you who have come to watch our shows, your unwavering support and patronage of our productions challenge us to always aim higher and reach for the stars. Mabuhay kayo at maraling salamat po!”

Staff

Bosam Productions staff is composed of its Executive Producer Glenn Samson; Associate Producer Jocel Samson De Castro, who go together to the Philippines at least twice a year to get talents and bring them to America for concerts; Marketing and Advertising Manager, Clarice Samson Burgos; Carol Samson Ramos and Bebet and Mimi San Felipe, Production Managers.

GLENN "Bosam" SAMSON (3rd from left) with Basil Baldez, Zsa-Zsa Padilla and Agot Isidro

BEBET SAN FELIPE, Associate Producer, with Agot Isidro.

CLARICE BURGOS SAMSON, Associate Producer with Zsa-Zsa Padilla.














JOCEL SAMSON DE CASTRO, Associate Producer with Basil Valdez.












PIOLO PASCUAL and Glenn Samson.

Pacquiao Brings the World Closer Together

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

THE HUGE CROWD around the Boxing Arena at the Events Center of the Mandalay Bay Resort Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

LAS VEGAS, NV -- For over two hours, last Saturday, October 6, the Philippines' "Pambansang Kamao" (National Fistfighter) Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao brought the world closer together in his remarkable rematch against Marco Antonio Barrera at the Events Center of Mandalay Bay Resort Hotel and Casino, witnessed by 10,112 boxing enthusiasts.

In those precious moments, the world stood still to watch the "Will to Win" fight between the Philippines' People Champ and the Mexican legend.

From a vantage view where I was seated, with Olive Calumpad to my right, mother of "Kyla" (Melanie Calumpad in real life) who sang the Philippine National Anthem; Edu Manzano of the "Pilipinas Game Ka Na Ba" fame, infront of me; and Jestoni Alarcon and Lizette behind me, the 12-round fight was truly an exciting one from beginning to end.

Relying on his hand speed and powerful punches, Pacquiao controlled the action, from Round 1 to Round 12, and won the majority of the fighters' entertaining exchanges.

Pacquiao was determined to beat Barrera one more time, as Pacman (Pacquiao's monicker) TKO'd Barrera on Round 11 in their first match in November 2003 in San Antonio, Texas.

Unanimous Decision

Three judges gave Pacquiao a 12-round unanimous decision. Jerry Roth and Glenn Trowbridge each gave Pacman an identical score of 118-109, while Tom Schrek scored it 115-112.

Unnecessary Punch

Barrera had a point deducted for punching Pacquiao on his face on referee Tony Weeks' break in the 11th round. In the earlier rounds, Barrera even elbowed Pacquiao in the course of exchanging punches. In one instance, Barrera hit Pacquiao below the belt.

In the ensuing fight, also in the 11th round, Pacman, hurt by the unnecessary punch earlier, retaliated and had opened a cut under Barrera's right eye with a powerful punch.

Pacquiao, in the early rounds, scored with incessant attacks that showcased his agility and speed, but Barrera, true to his form, fought back, responding with effective counter-punches.

Both Pacquiao and Barrera engaged in excellent slugfests in the fourth and fifth rounds, with Pacquiao's left and right combinations landing on Barrera's face and body.

"It was a good fight, but it was different from the first fight," Pacquiao said. "He's a good, smart boxer. I knew he would have to box me this time around. But I'm satisfied with the win. I thought the people were happy with that fight. I'm trying to make people happy, to give a good fight. I hope that people liked this fight tonight. We did our best," Pacquiao narrated during the interview.

Roach's Comments

"Manny boxed well. He showed good footwork cutting Barrera off and moving him to the right. When he did that, it was beautiful," commented Freddie Roach, Pacquiao's trainer.

"Barrera surprised me that he lasted as long as he did in the fight," Roach said. "He has a lot of heart and guts and he fought a great fight."

Barrera Retiring

With this loss to Pacquiao, Barrera's record dropped to 63-6. "Honestly, this is my last fight in this beautiful sport," Barrera said. "I definitely lost my head in a couple of rounds. I got caught up in the exchanges. I shouldn't have stayed in the exchanges. I should have kept boxing him."

In his storied 18-year professional career, Barrera won world titles at junior featherweight, featherweight and junior lightweight. After past losses, Barrera rebounded with six victories, but he couldn't do it this time around with Manny Pacquiao.

Pacqiao of General Santos, Philippines, with a record of 45-3-2, 35 KOs, was landing a good number of punches, and was doing it again in the 11th round when he knocked Barrera into the ropes.

The victory of Pacquiao set up a possible rematch with Marquez. In their 2003 fight, he knocked Marquez down three times in the first round but Marquez stormed back to gain a draw many believed Pacquiao won.

Bob Arum of Top Rank and Oscar dela Hoya of Golden Boy were there to support their respective fighters, but both of them praised Pacquiao for coming out the best fighter of the two. "He is a world-class fighter," said Arum, referring to Manny Pacquiao.

Businessmen's Comments

Businessman Gay Padiernos was happy that Pacquiao won, but a bit lonely that Pacquiao failed to deliver a TKO of Barrera in any round. "I was expecting Manny to deliver a big blow to knock out Barrera, but it didn't happen. But what's important is Pacquiao won it unanimously, without any controversy," Gay declared.

Paul Emata, President of American Ring, LLC, expressed a different view. "The Filipino nation should celebrate the victory of Pacquiao, as he gave the Philippines an added pride and honor with this victory over Barrera," Emata said.

Businessman Emmanuel Bernabe said, as he was walking toward the Mandalay Bay Hotel, from the Events Center: "Manny Pacquiao's victory tonight proves to the whole world that he is the best fighter in the super featherweight category, and we are proud of him."

Ms. Rose de Ocampo, Manila-based MANILA-U.S. TIMES' Marketing Manager, who is into real estate business, commented: "I watched the fght on TV here. Parang (It's like) everything stopped in Metro Manila during the hours of the fight. Peace, law and order prevailed. Let's have more Manny Paquiao moments, please."

Wilson Y. Tieng, President and CEO of Solar Entertainment Corporation, who has been a solid supporter of Pacquiao for many years, came all the way from the Philippines, along with Luis T. Fuentes, President of Solar Resources, Inc.; and Yolanda S. Pedrina, Vice President, Land Management and Acquisition of Solar to watch the well-publicized fight.

Other dignitaries and showbiz personalities who came from the Philippines to watch the fight were: Vice President Noli de Castro, Congressman Prospero Nograles, Congressman Hermilando Mandanas and his friend, Regina O. Reyes; Department of Energy and Natural Resources Secretary Jose L. Atienza & Mrs. Atienza, and son Ali Atienza (who ran for the mayorship of Manila and lost to Mayor Fred Lim); Edu Manzano of the "Pilipinas, Game Ka Na Ba" fame; Composer and Recording Artist Lito Camo, Eddie Gutierrez, Anabelle Rama and son Richard Gutierrez; former Senator Robert Jaworski, Rudy Fernandez & Lorna Tolentino; Jestoni Alarcon & Lizette, and many more.

Olive Calumpad, mother of Kyla, came to Las Vegas for the first time. "I am so glad that Manny gave my daughter, Kyla, the opportunity to sing the Philippine National Anthem," related Mrs. Calumpad when interviewed. Kyla performed very well in her rendition of "Lupang Hinirang" to the delight of those inside the arena, and millions of televiewers all over the world.

It was alleged that, that special role to sing the Philippine National Anthem, was originally assigned to Ara Mina, but there was a change in assignment two weeks prior, to obviate controversy from further broiling between her and "Pacman." The role was given to Kyla by Manny Pacquiao himself.

Victory Party

Russell Rufino, who handles marketing, events and promotions, issued invitation to everyone present to join the post fight victory party, hosted by Manny Pacquiao, held at Planet Hollywood, a few miles away from Mandalay Bay.

Greetings from President Arroyo, Senate President Villar
Meanwhile, President Gloria Macapagal Aroyo congratulated Manny Pacquiao for scoring a unanimous decision over Mexican boxing legend Marco Antonio Barrera Saturday night (Sunday morning in Manila) at the Mandalay Bay Resort Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

"Our 'Pambansang Kamao' (National Fistfighter) is the Philippines' gift to the world of boxing," she said in a statement. Mrs. Arroyo said Pacquiao's win has again lifted the Filipino spirit."Pacquiao once again buoyed the nation's spirit with his excellent fighting form and indomitable spirit," she said. Senate President Manuel Villar, meanwhile, issued a similar statement in praise of the Filipino boxing icon."We are truly grateful to Pacquiao for once again giving glory to the country and making every Filipino proud of his nationality. He represents Filipinos who have the heart of a fighter," Villar said."His win inspires us all to fight, no matter how mighty the problems besetting the country are today," he added.With the win, Pacquiao retained his WBC international super featherweight crown. -- Las Vegas-based Executive Editor of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES (MUST), Joseph B. Pecayo, contributed to this story. MUST photos by Chief Photographer Romeo M. Balboa. -- Posted by Ma. Liza P. Banz, MUST Website Designer and Editor.

AT THE WEIGH-IN on October 5, Manny Pacquiao weighs 130 lbs. Shown at right is Marco Antonio Barrera.

KYLA, one of the mainstays at GMA-7, renders beautifully the "Lupang Hinirang," Philippine National Anthem, just before the Pacquiao-Barrera fight officially started.

MANNY PACQUIAO (right) hits Barrera's nose with his right fist.

BARRERA (left) tries to cover his face as Pacquiao continues with a rampaging attack on him.

PACQUIAO gives Barrera a powerful left hand punch, as you can guage in this shot.

AFTER WINNING UNANIMOUSLY, Manny Pacquiao stands 10 feet above the crowd at this corner of the Boxing Arena, Events Center, Mandalay Bay Resort Hotel & Casino. At right is Oscar dela Hoya of Golden Boy Promotions, receiving a whisper-message from one of his business associates.

CONGRESSMAN Hermilando "Dodong" Mandanas of the 2nd District of Batangas, along with his friend, Regina O. Reyes, and some friends, after attending the Saturday mass held at the presidential suite of Manny and Jinkee at The Hotel.

Manny Pacquiao with Manila-U.S. Times' Publisher, Johnny M. Pecayo.

BOXING ENTHUSIASTS and Pacquiao supporters proudly display the Philippine flag at the Events Center of Mandalay Bay, from left: Johnny M. Pecayo, Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES (left); Zenny Melencio of Bremerton, Washington; Kathrine Pugeda and Chiarra Levita of Las Vegas, Nevada, with an unidentified gentleman at right.

FILIPINA BOXER Ana Julaton poses with MANILA-U.S. TIMES' Chief Photographer Romeo M. Balboa, who made an exclusive photo coverage of the Pacquiao-Barrera fight for the MANILA-U.S. TIMES.

PACQUIAO's supporters from the Philippines (seated, from left) are: Ali Atienza, Mrs. Atienza, DENR Secretary Jose L. Atienza, Jr., and Congressman Prospero Nograles from Davao. Standing (l-r): Maristel Audrey Santoyo, Maura Salatandre, Gina Durias, Atty. Peter Durias, Atty. Orlando M. Salatandre, Jr. and Jake Joson.

PRESIDENT Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, together with high government officials, walk with International Super Featherweight champion Manny Pacquiao toward Kalayaan grounds during a courtesy call on the President. In her speech later, the President lauded Pacquiao for making Filipinos proud for his victory over Mexican legend Marco Antonio Barrera. -- RENY PAMPOLINA/PCPO/ PNS

Bayanihan Sa Amerika In Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA, 7 October 2007 – The Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO), in cooperation with the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles (PCGENLA), conducted the Bayanihan sa Amerika Conference at the New Otani Hotel. The conference was attended by 123 participants representing 89 Filipino-American organizations based in Southern California and Nevada.

Similar conferences will be held in San Francisco, New York, and Chicago this month.

Consul General Mary Jo Aragon welcomed the participants to the first Bayanihan sa Amerika conference, and expressed appreciation for the high turnout of participants. In his message to the participants, which was read by Consul General Aragon, Ambassador Willy C. Gaa encouraged Filipino associations and community centers in the US to continue to strengthen their ties with the motherland.

At the start of the plenary session, Consul General Aragon, Tourism Director Annie Cuevas and Trade Representative Archimedes Gomez briefed the participants on the ongoing projects of the Philippine government and the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, and updated them about the positive economic developments in the Philippines.

Mr. Geminiano Arre talked on the relevance and challenges of Filipino community centers and associations in the United States, and shared how the Filipino Community in Honolulu, Hawaii succeeded in raising funds for the establishment of a community center there. He challenged the Filipino organizations to go beyond organizing beauty pageants and induction balls by initiating socially relevant and civic-oriented programs.

Ms. Linda Nietes exhorted participants to instill Filipino values among second generation Filipinos and strengthen their social and cultural ties with the motherland by, among other interventions, encouraging them to read books about the Philippines. She challenged the audience to demand from US public libraries the regular procurement of Philippine books as part of their international collections.

Mr. Winston Emano of the Association for the Advancement of Fil-Am Arts and Culture presented how his organization bridges the cultural and generation gap among different generations of Filipinos in the United States, and promotes a greater appreciation for Philippine culture and arts among mainstream American audiences. He lamented that although Filipino Americans are increasingly being noticed by mainstream American media, much needs to be done to present an accurate picture of their glowing achievements and positive contributions to American society.

Mr. Joel Jacinto of the Search to Involve Pilipino Americans suggested fundraising strategies and financial planning for Filipino organizations. He presented the art and science of fundraising, including its technical and qualitative aspects, and highlighted some sustainable programs among the community organizations in Los Angeles.

Mr. Rick Munda shared Angkop-Gawad Kalinga’s success in getting wide support from both Filipino and American mainstream organizations for Gawad Kalinga’s livelihood and housing programs and models in the Philippines.

The Keynote speaker for the conference was Congressman Hermilando Mandanas of Batangas, who praised Filipinos overseas for their hard work and dedication, and for being credible agents of change in Philippine society. He promoted the concept of patriotic bonds to spur economic growth and to ensure a more equitable distribution of wealth in the country.

The succeeding workshops provided the participants the opportunity to share their insights on the next steps the Philippine government and the Filipino organizations in the United States should take to address organizational concerns, strengthen the visibility of Filipino Americans in the US, and contribute to the economic and social development of the Philippines. The general consensus reached by the workshop participants was to work towards making the Philippines a developed country. The participants also agreed that the Filipino Community organizations must coordinate regularly and cooperate more closely so that the Filipino Community will finally be recognized as a force to reckon with in American politics. The participants agreed that the gains of the conference should be sustained through follow-up meetings among participants. The role of the Commission on Filipinos Overseas was also clarified, and various recommendations were presented, including focusing on donor cultivation and financial resources that will best impact the programming of Filipino organizations, and the creation of a CFO clearinghouse to find out what resources are available and to provide opportunities to pull resources together. -- Noli Yu

CONSUL GENERAL MARY JO BERNARDO ARAGON welcomes the Kaynote Speaker, Congressman Hermilando I. Mandanas of the 2nd District of Batangas, as well as the guests.

CONGRESSMAN HERMILANDO I. MANDANAS of the 2nd District of Batangas flew from Las Vegas early Sunday morning to fulfill his commitments as Keynote Speaker of the Bayanihan sa Amerika Conference. -- MANILA-U.S. TIMES' photo by Romeo M. Balboa, Chief Photographer

GROUP SHOT of the Philippine Consulate General's key personages along with participants in the Bayanihan sa Amerika held Sunday at the New Otani Hotel in downtown Los Angeles.

Pacquiao-Barrera Fight is set for October 6 at Mandalay Bay

By Johnny M. Pecayo
http://manilaustimes.blogspot.com/

MANNY PACQUIAO autographs a glove for his fans. -- MUST PHOTO

BEVERLY HILLS, CA -- Top Rank CEO Bob Arum, who manages the boxing career of Manny Pacquiao; and Golden Boy Promotions President, Oscar dela Hoya, manager for Marc Antonio Barrera, led their respective camps at the Beverly Hills Hotel here, where the press conference was held Friday morning, August 10, to announce the rematch of two famous fighters to be held October 6 at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada.

In this forthcoming fight, Pacquiao will defend his Super Featherweight title against Barrera, who lost to "Pacman" in November 2003 in San Antonio, Texas.

Superstars Pacquiao and Barrera will collide in a 12-round super featherweight title fight. It will be broadcast live on HBO Pay-Per-View.

Tickets are priced at $600, $400, $300, $200 and $100, which can be purchased at the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino box office and all Las Vegas Ticketmaster locations (Smith's Food and Drug Centers, Macy's stores and Ritmo Latino).

The Pacquiao-Barrera fight, dubbed "Will to Win," is a battle between legendary three-division champions. Pacquiao (44-3-2, 35 KOs) of General Santos City, Philippines, defeated Barrera (63-5, 42 KOs) of Mexico City, Mexico, in their first exciting encounter in 2003, claiming the 'Baby Face Assasin's' featherweight title.

"Pacquiao is considered by many as boxing's pound for pound most exciting fighter of the world," as announced by Bob Arum during the press conference.

"Fighting Barrera is a career highlight for me," said Pacquiao. He added: "He has already beaten great world champions like Erik Morales, Naseem Hamed and Johnny Tapia and I know I am going to have to train harder that I ever have been before to beat him. But I am fully prepared to sacrifice and do everything necessary to beat him. And I will. It's going to be another great night for fight fans, especially for the Filipinos all over the world."

'Pacman' left Los Angeles for Cebu and immediately began practising at the Wacky Salud gym. Trainor Freddie Roach would follow soon. Hundreds of fans syrrounded the gym while Manny was doing the routine boxing practice, including shadow boxing.

Sexy Ara Mina Tangled in Pacman's Affair

Reports reaching the editorial offices of the MANILA-U.S. TIMES in Beverly Hills have it that there were rumors spreading rapidly about Ara Mina's alleged love connection with prized champion boxer, Manny Pacquiao. The tall tales ignited even more after Pacquiao left Los Angeles for Manila earlier than planned.

Interviewed by ABS-CBN's TV Patrol, Ara shared that she and Manny are just friends. Ara went on to list the shows she's performing in to back up her claim of not having any type of affair with Pacquiao -- "Los Angeles, Canada, San Diego, Las Vegas and San Francisco." She's hoping the rumors would go away so everyone could move on to concentrate on her upcoming tour, which starts on Friday, August 17, at the Pala Casino & Resort in Pala, California.

Ara Mina will be performing with the legendary Freddie Aguilar during Freddie's first US Concert Tour, accompanied by sexy comedian, Ella V of the Viva Hot Babes.

Ara hopes the rumors will die down since Manny is a happily married man, father, and international Filipino icon.

MARCO ANTONIO BARRERA being interviewed by a local TV newscaster. -- MUST PHOTO

MANNY PACQUIAO (behind the podium) delivers a message, while Bob Arum, Oscar dela Hoya and Marco Antonio Barrera (seated, l-r) listen attentively. -- MUST PHOTO

BOB ARUM, Chairman-CEO of Top Rank, Inc. -- MUST PHOTO

OSCAR DELA HOYA, President of Golden Boy Promotions. -- MUST PHOTO

Fil-Ams in Los Angeles celebrate 5th Historic Filipinotown Festival; QueensCare participates, too

TERRY BONECUTTER (right), President and CEO of QueensCare Family Clinics, is being interviewed by Joseph Pimentel for ABS-CBN International's Channel 2.

LOS ANGELES, CA -- Celebrating the birth of the historic Filipino district in Los Angeles, California, the Historic Filipinotown Neighborhood Council (HiFiNC) in collaboration with the Filipino American Community of Los Angeles (FACLA) and several other Filipino-American organizations held a two-day celebration on August 4 and 5 at the corners of Temple/Burlington here.

The fifth anniversary celebration of the Historic Filipinotown brought a feast of great performers for all ages, emerging talent from top shows and a vast array of booths for goods, arts, crafts, food and services, in addition to an exciting 5-kilometer Walk/Run Road Race, with support from Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon.

QueensCare Family Clinics participated in the festival through a booth, managed by Elaine Gillituk, Johnny Pecayo, Mario Quilao, Olga Garcia and Maria Garcia, where a number of festival guests dropped by, registered, and were briefed about the medical, dental and vision services, as well as pediatrician services to young children being provided by QueensCare to qualified individuals, in any of its clinic.

QueensCare Family Clinics are located, as follows: Eagle Rock Clinic, 4448 York Boulevard; East Los Angeles Clinic, 133 N. Sunol Drive; Echo Park Clinic, 150 N. Reno Street; Hollywood Clinic, 4618 Fountain Avenue; Wilshire Clinic, 3242 West 8th Street; and Bresee Clinic, located at 184 S. Bimini Place, Los Angeles.

Among the prominent personages in the Filipino American community who came to visit the QueensCare booth, were: Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon of the Philippine
Consulate General; Maria Quiban, TV newscaster, Fox 11 and Channel 13; Lydia Soriano, Chairman, Kalayaan of Southern California; Thelma Calabio, Founding chairman, Mamburao, U.S.A.; a school nurse who expressed interest to inform the parents about what QueensCare does in the community; Alvaro Vanegas of the Latino community, who is very active not only in the Latino community, but in the Fil-Am community as well, and many more.

Terry Bonecutter, President and CEO of QueensCare Family Clinics, was interviewed by Joseph Pimentel, assisted by a Cameraman, for Channel 2 of ABS-CBN International. The TV newscast is broadcast worldwide.

Featured performers included “American Idol 2007” finalist AJ Tabaldo, Joseph Gelito, Lara Avengoza, Ivory Cunanan, Pam Darden of the Marvelettes, Caroline Oguma, Ranella Ferrer, Dubhe Ferrer, Children of Burlington School, USC Troy Philippines, Kapatiran Historical Society, People’s CORE, Catheryn Briones, Sarah Lazatin, Erick Lerma, Josh Lopez, Kiana Lopez, Rocco, and Malou Toler among others.The feast of sister cultures, color and tradition continued with Proyectos Saluda Folklore Coalition of Mexican (Esplendor), Nicaraguan (Nicaraguita), Honduran (HULA), Colombian (Comparsa Fantasía Colombiana) and Guamenian (Kuttura Chamoru) folklore dance groups in two hours of mesmerizing presentations celebrating with Filipinos the joy of one big family, in one big Angeleno neighborhood. This was coordinated by Alvaro Vanegas.Also a highlight of this year’s celebration was the installation of 58 medallions on streetlights along Temple Street. The 5th Historic Filipinotown Festival is also organized by the Filipino American Library (FAL), Filipino American Service Group, Inc. (FASGI), People's Community Organization for Reform and Empowerment (People's CORE), Pilipino American Network & Advocacy (PANA), and Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA).Historic Filipinotown was created by a resolution of the Los Angeles City Council on August 2, 2002. It is home to a diverse population, including about 30 Filipino organizations, businesses, and landmarks.

Consul General Mary Jo Bernardo Aragon of the Philippine Consulate General in Los Angeles, is the highest ranking Filipino in Southern California, Southern Nevada, Arizona, Texas and New Mexico, the Consulate's territorial jurisdiction.

In a huddle (from left) are: Elaine Gillituk, Terry Bonecutter, Olga and Maria of QueensCare East L.A.

MARIA QUIBAN (left), a popular Filipino American TV newscaster at Fox 11 and Channel 13, dropped by the QueensCare booth to meet with (from left): Johnny Pecayo, Elaine Gillituk and Mario Quilao.

MARIA QUIBAN gamely participated in the damp tank contest, conducted by Search to Involve Pilipino Americans (SIPA). She is totally wet as she was dropped to the tank full of water when the participants hit the bulls eye.

MARIA QUIBAN, donning a summer shorts, had to put on another T-shirt on top of her white T-shirt as she is totally wet here.

MARIA QUIBAN shakes the hand of Mario Quilao, as Elain, Maria and Olga look on.

With her hands full of QueensCare give-aways, this young lady is being briefed by Olga (left) about the many services available at any of the six branches of QueensCare.

Elaine Gillituk (right) talks to a lady visitor, who is registering in the logbook.

An elderly man, with cap (left), talks to Mario Quilao, while Maria (right) looks on. Partly hidden is Elaine Gillituk.
CAUGHT IN THE ACT of hitting the ball against the "key" of the damp tank is Maria Quiban of Fox 11 and Channel 13.
A couple engages Olga in the discussion about the services available at QueensCare clinic.
During a dull moment, Elaine Gillituk, Maria, Olga and Johnny Pecayo found the time to relax as they were photographed here infront of the QueensCare product display.
PART of the crowd in the Entertainment Section, where various entertainment numbers were presented from early morning to early evening, for two days, August 4 & 5, Saturday & Sunday.
Three visitors are simultaneously registering and discussing the services available at QueensCare clinic with Mario Quilao and Olga.
ELAINE GILLITUK (right) entertains a friend who dropped by the QueensCare booth.
A BUSY QueensCare booth on the morning of August 4, with a number of potential clients milling around the booth.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Prevention's Pre-Teen Vaccine Campaign Meet with Members of the Press at California Endowment

By Johnny M. Pecayo Publisher and Editor-in-Chief,
MANILA-U.S. TIMES
http://manilaustimes.blogspot.com/

JOHNNY M. PECAYO is shown here with Rear Admiral Anne Schuchat, M.D., Assistant Surgeon General, United States Public Health Service. -- PHOTO COURTESY OF JULIAN DO, Director New America Media


LOS ANGELES, CA -- High-ranking and highly qualified members of the panel comprised the discussants at a press conference held August 3 at the Catalina Room of the California Endowment, coordinated by Julian Do, Director of the New America Media for Southern California, in collaboration with Sandy Close, NAM Executive Director, who flew in from New York the day before, where similar presentation was done.

Let's take a close look at the backgrounders of the panelists in Friday's meeting.

Rear Admiral Anne Schuchat, M.D., is Assistant Surgeon General, United States Public Health Service (USPHS) and Director, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases (NCIRD), and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Rear Admiral Schuchat has spent over 18 years at CDC working in immunization, respiratory, and other infectious diseases. Prior to her current appointment, she served as the director of CDC's National Immunization Program (NIP); acting director of the National Center for Infectious Diseases (NCID); and Chief of the Respiratory Diseases Branch at NCID.

Dr. Schuchat was named an Assistant Surgeon General of the United States Public Health Service in 2006.

Globally, she has worked in West Africa on meningitis vaccine studies, in South Africa on surveillance and prevention projects, and in China on SARS emergency response, where she headed the Beijing City epidemiology team for the World Health Organization's (WHO) China Office. She continues to serve as a visiting professor for the Beijing Centers for Disease Prevention and Control.

Dr. Anne Schuchat graduated with highest honors from Swarthmore College and with honors from Dartmouth Medical School. She served as resident and chief resident in internal medicine at New York University's Manhattan VA Hospital before beginning her public health career at CDC as an Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) Officer in NCID.

Wibbelsman

The other member of the panel is Dr. Charles J. Wibbelsman, chief of Adolescent Medicine for Kaiser Permanente in San Francisco, California. He has been with The Permanente Medical Group, Inc. for 25 years, and serves as Chair of the Chiefs of Adolescent Medicine for Kaiser Permanente, Northern California. He is a Clinical Professor of Pediatrics at the University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine. Prior to his joining the Permanente Medical Group, Dr. Wibbelsman was the Chief of Venereal Disease Control for the City and County of San Francisco.

As an author for books for adolescents and their parents, Dr. Wibbelsman has authored "The Teenage Body Book," "Growing and Changing," "Life Happens," and "Crisis Proof Your Teenager."

Dr. Wibbelsman is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics, is board certified in Pediatrics, and currently serves on The Committee of Adolescence of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Dr. Wibbelsman received his undergraduate degree from Xavier University in Cincinnati and received his medical degree from the University of Cincinnati. He was a resident in Pediatrics at Massachusetts General Hospital and Cincinnati Children's Hospital and completed a fellowship in Adolescent Medicine at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles.

Sapsis

Karena (Kari) Sapsis, MPH, is the Pre-Teen Vaccine Campaign Manager and has spent over 10 years working in public health communication and social marketing at CDC.

As the Campaign Manager of CDC's national Pre-Teen Vaccine Campaign, she coordinates the formative research, message development, channel selection, materials development, partnership outreach, and media relations for the campaign. Prior to taking on this campaign, Kari coordinated CDC's annual influenza vaccine campaign, which included the development of a bilingual print campaign, radio and TV public service announcements, media outreach, and audience research with racial and ethnic minorities, seniors, people with chronic health conditions, parents, and physicians.

Internationally, Kari has provided training and technical assistance to the government of Indonesia as part of Tubercolosis/HIV clinical trial team on a CDC-funded project in Botswana.

Ms. Sapsis received her MPH in Behavioral Science and Health Education from Emory University. Her campaigns and educational products have won numerous awards, including National Health Information Awards and the Silver Inkwell from the International Association of Business Communicators.

The Importance of Immunization

Having provided the readers with the impressive individual backgrounders and their respective qualifications, we would like to get the readers' attention, particularly the parents of 11-12 year-old pre-teens who must submit themselves for medical check up and immunization.

"Immunizations are not just for babies, but for 11-12-year-old individuals, too," according to Rear Admiral Schuchat. She added: "Vaccine is routinely recommended for 11 and 12-year-old pre-teens because their risk of getting meningitis is high."

The Assistant Surgeon General also explained that whooping cough is a preventable disease, and yet a lot of teenagers get this miserable disease which is contagious.

This press conference served as a launching pad for Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) pre-teen vaccine campaign in August 2007 that will coincide with National Immunization Awareness Month.

The campaign is designed to inform parents, teachers, family physicians, and pediatricians about CDC's new vaccination recommendations for 11 and 12 year olds to protect them from serious, sometimes life-threatening diseases such as whooping cough, meningitis, and cervical cancer.

CDC also encourages parents and caregivers of 11 and 12 year olds to schedule a pre-teen medical check-up to make sure their child gets these important vaccines and to catch up on any missed childhood vaccines, such as varicella (chickenpox), measles, mumps, and rubella, and hepatitis B.

Dr. Schuchat also talked about Tdap Vaccine, a different type of vaccine. Tdap is tetanus-diptheria-acellular pertussis (whooping cough). It is an important improvement over the old Td booster because it provides additional protection from pertussis, while still providing protection against tetanus and diptheria. Pertussis is one of the most common vaccine-preventable respiratory diseases in American teens and can be spread through schools.

Pertussis often goes unrecognized by healthcare providers, creating a misperception that it is not a problem. However, teens who get pertussis commonly have a prolonged cough lasting weeks to months and they may occasionally develop pneumonia or need to be hospitalized. The incidence of the disease has been increasing among pre-teens in recent years.

There are two Tdap vaccines available: BOOSTRIX and ADACEL.

Rear Admiral Schuchat also discussed at length the MCV4 Vaccine designed to fight Meningococcal infections which can lead to meningitis and other serious life-threatening infections, and even death.

The MCV4 vaccine protects against meningitis, which is spread by close contact with a person who has the disease. This disease can strike healthy kids without warning, and the risk of getting it increases during adolescence. Meningococcal disease is not common, but in those who get it, symptoms develop and progress rapidly, even leading to death in 24 to 48 hours. About 10 percent of teens who get the disease die from it, and another 15 percent will have long-term disability, such as loss of a limb. The MCV4 vaccine currently available is called Menactra.

The HPV Vaccine fights Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a sexually-transmitted infection which can cause cervical center. It is the most common sexually-transmitted infection.

The HPV vaccine protects against human papillomavirus, which can cause cervical cancer and genital warts. HPV is the most common sexually-transmitted infection in the United States, with about 20 million people currently infected. In 2007, about 11,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with cervical cancer and about 3,600 women will die from the disease. The HPV vaccine currently available is called Gardasil and it is recommended for 11 and 12 year old girls.

Normally, the parents' concern is about the cost. Insurance companies pay for the cost of the vaccinations. Also, there is a Federal government program that provides free vaccines for those who are uninsured or under-insured. This program was set up to provide free vaccinations to children.

11-12 year olds

Dr. Charles Wibbelsman, a Member of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Committee on Adolescence, observed that young children below 10 years old, normally enjoy being held by hands by their parents. But not when they are already 11 or 12 years old.

The parents play a vital role with pre-teens children. They must sit down with them, talk with them about their daily activities, including nutrition, wearing of seat belts, importance of health care and even sex.

Dr. Wibbelsman observed that these 11-12 year olds experience peer pressure, low esteem and therefore, they need a lot of support. The parents must know what they do everyday, what they eat, and what activities they are involved in. His findings is that almost 10 per cent of 12 year olds have gone into sex.

Program Development

Kari Sapsis, MPH, Office of Health Communication, National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for over 10 years, explained how CDC developed this campaign. A team from CDC, comprised of 35 focused groups, went out all over the country to talk to parents, gathered information, evaluated them, then came up with this campaign. Questions, like "What do they know about the diseases," "Where to deliver the health information," etc., were part of the survey questionnaire.

The need for a preventive health for 11-12 year olds was developed. Ms. Sapsis emphasized that the HPV vaccine is not for girls only.

She told the members of the press that the baby vaccine can wear off, and 11-12 year olds need to be vaccinated again. Do not wait until the child is 18.

"In the U.S., we are able to prevent this disease. We also do direct mailing to over 1,500 pediatricians all over the country, to impress upon them the importance of vaccinations, and to generate awareness about the campaign.

News You Can Use

Sandy Close even suggested to the members of the press to come up with a "News You Can Use" column, as she facilitated the meeting.

REAR ADMIRAL Anne Schuchat, M.D., Assistant Surgeon General (left) with Dr. Charles J. Wibbelsman, Chief, Adolescent Medicine, Kaiser Permanente, San Francisco, and Member of the AAP Committee on Adolescence; and Karina (Kari) Sapsis, MPH, Health Communications Specialist, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). -- MUST PHOTO

DR. CHARLES J. WIBBELSMAN (center) emphasizes the importance of the parents' role in sitting with their pre-teen children and talking with them. - MUST PHOTO

KARI SAPSIS told the members of the press how this campaign for immunization came about. - MUST PHOTO

SANDY CLOSE, Executive Director of New America Media, facilitated the press conference, and encouraged an active participation from the media during the roundtable discussion. - MUST PHOTO