Isang Daan At Dalawamput -Isang Taon Ng Pagdiriwang Ng Katipunan (KKK)..

                                     
Diklap Part 2- Sining ng Pagtitipon.. Visual Artwork
                              This mural is a composite artwork.. Artists joined hand in hand to make this Bonifacio Mural.. A real masterpiece towards peace and prosperity.. The visual artists who painted the mural are the following: Percival S. Denolo,Jr., Geman Luis Fernando III, Jaime Medina, Ding Royales, Eddie Boy Bascara, Eduardo Duds Sagayat, Arlene De Castro Anonuevo, Ronna Lara-Bes, Gio Acero, Lorena Pacampara and Elmer Ponce Pacio.(VG)


FACTIONS IS IT PRODUCTIVE?
By: Ted Cho


How does Webster dictionary defines the 'word factions'? The first positive definition is.. it's a noun, a television program, film or literary works, comprising a dramatized presentation of actual events and.. The second negative definition is.. it's also a noun and a political party (used always in a bad sense); misguided party spirit.

The definition connotes that it is a noun.. Would you like translate it into a verb of action?

In addition, the first world war and the second world war gave birth to factions within human institutions and the Holy Bible confirms such statement.

The factions within political parties and government institutions particularly within the Philippine scenario, is a game being played by foreign powers who are bent  on establishing chaos to foment order and or to establish order just to foment a chaotic situation. It is both a question and a declaration..

        In photo: Arlene De Castro Anonuevo, great grandaughter of Gat. Andres Bonifacio and other participants of the 121 years anniversary of the KKK.. at the Bahay Nakpil in Quiapo, Manila, Philippines. Also present in photo is Mam Ester Azurin, great grand daughter of our National hero Dr. Jose Rizal. Not in photo is Yolanda De Castro Cabuco, a medtech and a graduate at the UST, also a great grand daughter of Gat. Andres Bonifacio.

YouTube-Andres Bonifacio Case Unclosed Part 3 by Kara David of GMA..

The controversial issues between revolutionary leader Emilio Aguinaldo and Gat. Andres Bonifacio (The Magdiwangs of Bonifacio  and the Magdalo Group of Aguinaldo) today are significant and perennial aspects of current socio-economic political milieu. The question that arises now is .. have we learned anything from that factions or have other progressive first world countries converted the challenge into a positive perennial socio-economic political environment? Lastly, thus the saying goes.. There is no other love that is greater and noble than the love of one's nation and to lay down your life to achieve its goal..

THE  BONIFACIO HYMN
Tagumpay ka ng Bayan

Bumangon kana
Anak ng bayan
at iyong tuparin
ang iyong katungkulan.

Busilak ng kalayaan
Ay nasa iyong kamay
Sa bawat pag-unlad 
Ibandila ay tagumpay.

Bonifacio
Pagmulat ng bawat Pilipino
Bonifacio
Lakas at alab ng puso
Ito ang Himagsikang 
Iyong sinimulan
Bonifacio 
Tagumpay ka ng bayan!

Sa bawat hakbang 
Ay sariwain
Pag-ibig sa bayan ay
palaganapin.

Aming panghahawakan
Demokrasyang pinaglaban
Iyong katapangan
Taglay namin, para sa Bayan.

Bonifacio
Pagmulat ng bawat Pilipino
Bonifacio
Lakas at alab ng puso
Ito ang Himagsikang
Iyong sinimulan
Bonifacio
Tagumpay ka ng Bayan.
(Tula ni Bobby Tomas)
(VerGarciaBlogs)

A POSSIBILITY OF CANCER CURE...

MEDICAL FORUM TACKLES ABOUT CANCER CURE

LATEST CANCER CURE- MEDICAL FORUM

By: Dr. Angel Manlapaz- Health and Life Coach

The Complete Wellness Center in partnership with Guangzhou Modern Cancer Hospital conducted a Medical Forum entitled “Minimally Invasive Targeted Cancer Therapy”  New Choices for Cancer Treatment which was held at the Occupational Safety and Health Center in Agham Road in Quezon City. The cancer symposium was given for free to the general public and medical doctors. Attendees were  Integrative Medicine practitioners, nurses, Naturopathic Doctors, health advocates, laypeople, and many patients who just want to learn the latest treatments in cancer therapy offered by Guangzhou Modern Cancer Hospital. The Medical Forum was very informative, especially the question and answer portion.  Now cancer patients have a better choice than just having chemotherapy, radiation, and radical surgery. Doctors who have kept an open mind in this advancing technology in cancer treatment are way ahead.  

 

                                   Medical Forum. Fr. L. to R. Dr. Sam Dizon, Dr. Peng Xiao Chi,
 Atty. Teresita Capacillo and Bennett Ho, Country Manager of Guangzhou Modern Cancer Hospital, Dr. Xiao received from Atty. Capacillo, a practicing lawyer, a graduate at UP Law '80s, and MBA Ateneo and HR Masteral Graduate from Tokyo University, plaque of appreciation for his lecture on Minimal  Invasive Cancer Therapy.

The latest minimally invasive cancer treatments include intraarterial intervention, cryoablation, radiofrequency ablation, partial seed implantation, embolization therapy, bio immunotherapy, gene therapy, and many more. According to Dr. Sam Dizon, Medical Director of The Complete Wellness Center, a practitioner of Integrative Medicine well known for treating successful cases of cancer, reversing effects of cancer, diabetes, heart, kidney, and liver diseases.    “we doctors must think out of the box, we must keep an open mind to other therapies that would enhance the survival rates of cancer patients than just keeping ourselves to what we have learned in medical school.” 

Sulo Hotel Medical Forum. Fr. L to R. Dr. Sam Dizon, Dr. Paolo Bellosillo, Dra. Chiqui Perez, Dermatology Aesthetic Surgery, Dr. Irene Penamante, Dr. Pons Aberin, Former DOH Undersecretary, Dr. Peng Xiao Chi, Head Oncology Dept. Guangzhou Modern Cancer Hospital, Atty. Teresita Capacillo and Dr. Angel Manlapaz.

Dr. Dizon  gave a very informative lecture on the “  Alternative Kidney Rehabilitation Program.” The event culminated with a  dinner and a Medical Forum for Doctors at the  Sulo Hotel together with  Dr. Peng  Xiao Chi, expert Oncologist and Head of the Oncology Department at Guangzhou Modern Hospital in China, and other doctors who are embracing new paradigms in cancer treatment.

 

                             

The medical forum was a raving success thru the assistance of the Complete Wellness Center consultant  Dr. Irene Penamante who  initially initiated talks with Guangzhou Modern Cancer Hospital.  This event was featured at UNTV, Channel 5, and GNN. This is just the beginning there is much work to be done in creating the much-needed awareness on Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Let us pass this information to our friends and family or relatives who are affected by cancer or are at high risk. 

(AngelBlogs) 

Ontario Skills News

THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY.. NATIONAL CONSECRATION

CELEBRATION OF THE NATIONAL CONSECRATION TO THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY ON JUNE 8, 2013
By: Brother Teddy Cho

Realizing that there's a need to invoke the loving guidance of our Blessed Mother Mary, especially as the Philippine church has embarked on a nine-year spiritual journey towards the Great Jubilee of the fifth centenary of the christian faith in our beloved land this coming year 2021 ushered by the observance of the year of faith which offers for every faithful an opportunity to rediscover the christian faith and intensify our efforts for a renewed integral evangelization (new evangelization). The Episcopal confab deemed its providentiality to announce and declare in one accord, during the 106th Plenary Assembly  (January 28, 2013). The holding of a simultaneous national consecration to the Immaculate Heart of Mary on June 8, 2013, at 10 am in all the cathedrals, parish churches, shrines & chapels in their respective Arch/dioceses, Prelatures and Apostolic Vicariates.

For a well coordinated and fruitful celebration on such momentous and big event, the CBCP permanent council designated an adhoc committee to plan, promote and spearhead the national consecration. His excellency, Most Reverend Guillermo V. Afable, Bishop of Digos (Chairman) with the assistance of Episcopal Commissions on Liturgy and Social Communications and Mass Media, Ambassador Howard Q. Dee of Bahay Maria-Assisi Development Foundation, Father Yulito Ignacio and the CBCP General Secretary.

May Mary the Mother of God and the Mother of the Church, look upon her 'Pueblo Amante' the Philippines with a Mother's eye and guide it along the path of justice, truth and love. Amen


Source CBCP Secular No. 01-s.2013. Letter of Archbishop Jose Palma, Pres. CBCP..
(VerGarciaBlogs)

WHAT YOU REAP.. YOU WILL SOW

GREAT EVENT STARTS IF YOU PLANT...


By.. Alan Talens

A SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSMAN WAS GROWING OLD AND KNEW IT WAS TIME TO CHOOSE A SUCCESSOR to take over the business. Instead of choosing one of his directors or his children, he decided to do something different.He calledall the young executives in his company together. He said, "It is time for me to step down and choose the next CEO. I have decided to choose one of you." The young executives were shocked, but the boss continued." I am going to give each one of you a SEED today - one very special SEED. I want you to plant the seed, water it, and come back here one year from today with what you have grown from the seed I have given you. I will then judge the plants that you bring, and the one I choose will be the next CEO"One man, named JUAN was there that day and he, like the others, received a seed. He went home and excitedly, told his wife the story. She helped him get a pot, soil and compost and he planted the seed. Everyday, he would water it and watch to see if it had grown. After about three weeks, some of the other executives began to talk about their seeds and the plants that were beginning to grow. JUAN kept checking his seed, but nothing ever grew. Three weeks, four weeks, five weeks went by, still nothing. By now, others were talking about their plants, but JUAN didn't have a plant and he felt like a failure. Six months went by--still nothing in JUAN's pot.

He just knew he had killed his seed. Everyone else had trees and tall plants, but he had nothing. JUAN didn't say anything to his colleagues, however. He just kept watering and fertilizing the soil - He so wanted the seed to grow. A year finally went by and all the young executives of the company brought their plants to the CEO for inspection. JUAN told his wife that he wasn't going to take an empty pot. But she asked him to be honest about what happened.

JUAN felt sick at his stomach, it was going to be the most embarrassing moment of his life, but he knew his wife was right. He took his empty pot to the boardroom. When JUAN arrived, he was amazed at the variety of plants grown by the other executives. They were beautiful---in all shapes and sizes. JUAN put his empty pot on the floor and many of his colleagues laughed, a few felt sorry for him!

When the CEO arrived, he surveyed the room and greeted his young executives. JUAN just tried to hide in the back. "My, what great plants, trees, and flowers you have grown," said the CEO. "Today one of you will be appointed the next CEO!" All of a sudden, the CEO spotted JUAN at the back of the room with his empty pot. He ordered the financial director to bring him to the front.

JUAN was terrified. He thought, "The CEO knows I'm a failure. Maybe he will have me fired!" When JUAN got to the front, the CEO asked him what had happened to his seed - JUAN told him the story. The CEO asked everyone to sit down except JUAN. He looked at JUAN, and then announced to the young executives, "Behold your next Chief Executive! His name is JUAN!"

JUAN couldn't believe it. JUAN couldn't even grow his seed. How could he be the new CEO the others said? Then the CEO said, "One year ago today, I gave everyone in this room a seed. I told you to take the seed, plant it, water it, and bring it back to me today. But I gave you all boiled seeds; they were dead - it was not possible for them to grow. All of you, except JUAN, have brought me trees and plants and flowers.

When you found that the seed would not grow, you substituted another seed for the one I gave you. JUAN was the only one with the courage and honesty to bring me a pot with my seed in it. Therefore,he is the one who will be the new Chief Executive!"



· If you plant honesty, you will reap trust

· If you plant goodness, you will reap friends

· If you plant humility, you will reap greatness

· If you plant perseverance, you will reap contentment

· If you plant consideration, you will reap perspective

· If you plant hard work, you will reap success

· If you plant forgiveness, you will reap reconciliation

· If you plant faith, you will reap a harvest

So, be careful what you plant now; it will determine what you will reap later. For more lessons and guidance call me +639215869888 anytime anywhere! Best Regards, Alan Talens

Re posted by: Bloggers Association of the Philippines

MAKATI MEDICAL CENTER HOSTED INTERNATIONAL NURSES WEEK CELEBRATION

INT’L. NURSES WEEK CELEBRATION

In celebration of the Int’l. Nurse’s week, Philippine nurses attended a seminar at the PNA Office at Malate,Manila entitled “Reminiscing the Florence Nightingale Essence”. NARS PARTY LIST leader Leah Paquiz, RN is appealing to nurses all over the country to come forward and champion our cause in raising the bar of the nursing profession.

According to Paquiz,” if we have the numbers we can assert our political will and have one voice in Congress and move forward the advocacy of nurses and the healthcare of our country. In line with the Int’l. Nurses’ week celebration we are calling all nurses to come on Friday at the PNA Office in Manila from 6-8pm for “Bayaning Nars Recognition” and on Saturday, May 11, 2013 at the University of Makati 6:00 AM sharp. Come in white pants and shirt. Nurses will have a mock elections. We encourage all nurses to step out of their comfort zones and get involved. For inquiries call PNA at of ANG NARS PARTY LIST at 0906-5656416..

NURSE PIONEERS

Dr. Angel Catindig-Manlapaz, R.N.,NP, Cecille Lucentales, RN, AM Leah Paquiz, RN, MAN (NARS PARTY LIST PRESIDENT)

Dr. Angel C. Manlapaz,RN a Health and Life Coach recently met with NARS PARTY LIST President Leah Paquiz at Richter Alternative Medical Center located in Sen. Gil Puyat, Pasay City. The Integrative Medical Center is owned by a Nurse pioneer Dr. Cecille Lucentales, a Naturopathic Doctor and wife of the late Asst.Undersecretary of DSWD. Together our vision is to put up 1,500 wellness centers all over the country. According to Manlapaz, a nurse advocate, visionary leader and former President of the Caregiver School Association of the Philippines , niece of Senatorial Candidate, No.24 Ramon Magsaysay Jr. said “ we nurses need to be proactive and be creative in the art and business of caring, we can become holistic nurse practitioners or even become nurse entrepreneurs. 

By taking up a course on Naturopathy, we can put up homebased preventive health care and wellness clinics. With the alarming increase in lifestyle diseases like diabetes and cancer, nurses can become health coaches ,Diabetes Health Educators or Cancer Prevention Health Educators. With upgraded nursing skills and training on Holistic Health, Integrative Nutrition and Naturopathy , Practice Management and Entrepreneurship we can set up our own independent preventive health care wellness clinics that will empower us and not just depend on hospitals for employment.” 

Nurse entrepreneurs can even band together and partner with investors to put up nursing homes, care homes, convalescent centers, drug rehabilitation centers, mental health recovery centers,alzheimer’s center, retirement homes. We must look into all the possibility of creating jobs to empower ourselves and the nurses all over the country. We cannot just depend on exporting our nurses to other countries.” Manlapaz, recently joined the NARS PARTY LIST and and envisions to raise the bar of the Nursing profession in our country as well as to champion in the field of holistic nutrition and preventive health care. We are calling on all nursing leaders to get involved on May 13,2013 National Elections. Nurses may get in touch with ANG NARS PARTY LIST at 0906-5656416 /09166271222.. (VerGarciaBlogs)

THE ANGELS BROUGHT ME HERE IN TEARS

Tears of Unsatisfied

Poetry By: Michael Vallejos Zacarias

Days have deserted by
and my heart is in ruined; 
no one seems to heal
the heartaches i felt inside.
A countless tears stumbled
in the eyes of the broken heart;
yet, it vanished the wound inside.
Several times I hid to cry
but, heart remained unsatisfied.
I often told the shadow behind me;
but when my eyes winked,
suddenly it gone and melted away.
I‘d turned around
and then i saw a shadow
it was my eyes bleeding while crying.

In my lonesome nights
tears constantly revealed;
that seems my life dying.
I looked around in a solemn side
and looked up in a spotted area;
there i saw an angel crying;
there was a mirror
and my assurance reflected there.

I dreamed and walked by the shadow
and it was a face viewed towards me.
I was scared while i looked up him;
but, it was my self-looking up the mirror.
I run as fast as i can;
there, an angel poured
the tears that fell in my eyes.

Satisfaction, wherefore art thou?
Make my tears stop flowing;
so my true- love passion will flicker.
You know my love and care are both infinite;
and the mask of nightfall has been removed;
still, wilt thou leave me unsatisfied?
(VerGarciaBlogs)

FAMAS BEST PICTURE AWARD GOES TO LAGUNA GOVERNOR ER EJERCITO FOR 'EL PRESIDENTE' FILMS

GOV. ER EJERCITO TOPS THE BEST ACTOR AWARD IN THE RECENTLY CONCLUDED  FAMAS AWARDS NIGHT

By Teddy Cho
Email: twpc617064life@yahoo.com.ph


The Emilio Aguinaldo  "El Presidente" film emerged as the big winner  at the 61st Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards that was held recently at the AFP theater in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

El Presidente garnered several major awards including the  best screenplay and best director category and  for the most popular director Mark Meily. Gov. ER Ejercito topped the Best Actor award. for the the film El Presidente and  brought home all the technical recognitions, like the best special and visual effects, editing, cinematograpphy and musical scoring.

Actress Angel Locsin, who turns 27 on April 23 was elated to learn that she was the one chosen to  receive the Best Actress award..
(VerGarciaBlogs)

This Man Is A Living Hero.. A Guidance Counselor And A Great Teacher

The Man With A Great Heart
 (This article is dedicated to my cousin Virgel Domingo Zacarias.) 

 By Michael V. Zacarias

“The best thing to cherish is that you recognize the innermost beauty of a person; whether it is great or small- the more what he or she possessed inside the more it replicates the vastness of the physical facets that he or she endures.”- 

In life, I have been blissful upon knowing that there’s still a person who truly appreciates the way I do. It is wonderful to cherish each day when you wake up because someone has waking on you and keeps you smile and telling you that you are lovely deep inside. When you have uncertainties then, someone is at your side, telling and guiding you to live each day with happiness in spite of circumstances so it would become more meaningful. Yet, you can affectionately call not just a good friend but, a true friend of yours. Maybe, a good friend is just good enough when he needs you but a true friend, no matter who you are and no matter what you are he or she is always there for you to have and to hold no matter what life brings you.

“Masungit”, whom I fondly called, is a true friend of mine. The first time we’ve met, I’ve felt anxious because he looks like a tiger, I mean seems like a strict person. That’s why he was christened as “Masungit”. But for sure, when you know this guy you would perhaps say he is certainly witty and gregarious. Blunt but educated. In him, I permanently see my strength for he’s a live wire to me. Whenever blackouts come, he never stops giving lights to the hazy sides of my life.
The moments we have had, I can undoubtedly reminisce how we were glad. He’s my ear each time I need someone to heed the songs of my life. Then, he can suddenly make good tunes out of it and even sings with sweet melodies when tears start dwindling on my cheeks.

Whenever my world is gloomy, Masungit shares his dazzling eyes. He sees ahead of me and telling me that everything’s going to be alright for his eyes looking onward to save myself from any harm we might encounter as we go along the road to fulfilling the dreams we were dreamt.

Whenever the road is bristly and my feet start to be enfeebled, he has his feet to take my steps. He never allows me to walk uncomfortably in going to the place where I should be. When I’m weak, he carries me with his steps without qualms so I can reach my journey free from disturbances and even to the very time I’ve got home he never leaves in an instant as he knows when am not yet safe. And whenever my hand is frail, he has his hand to bring and grasp.

Whenever my mind is congested, he is the one who shares wonderful thoughts so whatever it takes I will never be left behind. With him, I had never met such competition for both of us upholding a balanced atmosphere both innermost and outermost sides of our very lives.

Masungit has always raising good temperament. He’s one of the persons who show sincerity and fidelity towards me. Even when anxiety seems to flinch he constantly came first before it takes place. In the battlefield of my very existence, he’s then a hero, a brave man who safeguards me before he has to fight against the battle. He is then a super man on his own and for me as well. He only fights for what is right to be fighting for. And when he sees bad things from me, he does not tolerate but help me seeing things how to refrain from it.

Masungit knows better than me. This is what I keep insisted on him. When he asked why, I had just smiled and he easily able to delineate things that I am not expecting he could response that way. That’s how intelligent he is. But, one thing I know for sure, he is fairly unpretentious and compassionate enough. This great man on his own is persistent in all his endeavors in life. He is quite brave to face whatever complications he might encounter in life. And remains firmed in all his decisions in life. For me, he is constantly a living hero, a guidance counselor and a great teacher.(VerGarciaBlogs)

Reminiscing The Past And The Memories Still Lingers Into My Mind

Missing Moments
By: Michael V. Zacarias

Last night, I’d slept so gently
And envisaged about you and me how we used to be.
Eliciting the memories we had before
That packed baldness within our souls.

Now those memories were vanished
I’d better chose to wake up no more.
Sleep so tight and imagine all over
The moments that filled happiness inside

Remembering when we were at sea
Building castle and there we had lived for a while.
Ours were stories seemed like fairy tales;
Together we rejoiced as we swayed with the music day by day.

Reminiscing affairs were like music played
In the air filled with contentment and bliss;
Like hums of waves that caressed the shores
Ceaselessly embracing the moment adored.

Spent time had slipped away
When abruptly someone came along;
For the world we live had altered
I can’t stop resisting for the love being cherished.

Recognizing the moments we had
Isn't a joy forever?
Now it disappeared how life seemed to be;
Living in this world that full of fascinations
Indeed, treasures were made to be shattered.

If only time stood still
Together we clench our hands everlastingly.
And if only the unseen being rearrange us
To be with you is a joy and treasure forever.

But how these things transpired
When after all; someone’s anticipating
And now time has flown away
The moments treasured were just constantly missing.
(VerGarciaBlogs)

TO MY VERSATILE IDOL MY LONELY DAYS ARE OVER..

To My Versatile Idol
By: Michael Vallejos Zacarias

Lonely days are through
the way i met someone like you
heart filled with gladness
rejoices in the middle of loneliness;
oh! How great you are!
Here in my heart you've grown ultimately.
Truly you're my brilliant idol
like an actor and actress playing on screen.
Your capabilities lead me to idolize you.
And whose insight is to inspired
to the loyal admirer of yours.

You’re a guiding star
that brightens my life constantly.
With you, my love has grown;
and made you so dear to me.
Like a blazing rays of sun
amidst the cold dawn break
that kisses my frenzy atmosphere.

Knowing someone like you
is like a flower that blooms;
and grows amidst of nowhere.
Though it fades in solitude
still there's a marked on it;
for it is not an opportunity
but, something to reminisce at all.

I wonder why, i wonder why
in my sleepless nights you are always there.
as airy night kisses and touches me
whispering the thoughts
I'm longing to hear;
an independent song that makes me sing
explaining that you're my idol at all.

yet the world is sometimes unfair to me
you're constantly my idol;
though i covered with multitude of shame
you'll be a ewe-lamb to nurture at all;
not just an idol; but a brilliant
and versatile idol to one and all..
(VerGarciaBlogs)

GET YOUR TICKETS NOW.. ABBAMANIA LIVE CONCERTS TOUR IN MANILA AND OTHER KEY CITIES.. BY; NELIA LIM

Take Your Chance With ABBAMania Live Concert Shows In Manila & Other Key Cities..

Thank ABBA for the music, we now have a reason to dance, jive, and have the time of lives!  ABBAMania, touted as ‘the original ABBA tribute’ band is set for a six-day live concert shows in key cities of the Philippines.  ABBAMania’s concert will kick-off at the  Pacific Grand Ballroom of Waterfront Hotel, Cebu City on April 20; followed by shows at Puerto Princesa Coliseum on April 21; at the La Proa Ballroom, L’Fisher Hotel, Bacolod City, April 24; Newport Performing Arts Theater, Resorts World Manila, April 25;  at the SMX Convention Center, Lanang, Davao City on April 27, 2013 and at Cagayan de Oro City on April 28 2013.

Pinoy music lovers are still head-over-heels and smitten with the music of 70’s legendary pop-vocal group ABBA.  Whether you’re in a bar enjoying the music of a live band, or your next door neighbor is singing his heart out on the karaoke machine, ABBA’s hits like “Dancing Queen”, “Chiquitita”, “Mama Mia”, “I Have A Dream”, “Take A Chance On Me”, and more, are definitely part of the playlist.  ABBA topped the charts worldwide from 1972 to 1982, making them one of the most successful Swedish pop groups, and one of the most influential artists in music history. ABBA is  the first pop group from a non-English-speaking country, to have consistently  achieved chart success in English-speaking countries.  In 1999, ABBA’s string of hit songs were adapted into a successful musical theatre production and made into a movie, entitled “Mama Mia!”.  The theatre production has had a long successful run and the film was a certified box-office hit.

ABBA may have long gone on their own separate ways, but yes, you can bask in the nostalgia and re-live all these super spectacular ABBA music and magic moments through ABBAMania. They’re ‘the-next-best-thing-to-watching-the real-ABBA-perform-together-again’; widely regarded as one of “Europe’s Premier ABBA tribute Bands”.  Formed in 1998, ABBAMania has enthralled audiences of different generations all around the world, with almost 2 hours dazzling energy and close-to-perfect ABBA-style showmanship. 

There’s no better way  of  thanking ABBA for the music, than getting yourself tickets to ABBAMania -- an exciting show that the whole family can enjoy.  Get your tickets to ABBAMania at all Ticketworld outlets or get them online at www.ticketworld.com.ph. or call (02) 891.9999. (NeliaLimBlogs)

NORTH KOREAN CRISIS: WHY DID IT PROP UP LIKE THIS?

                                                North Korean Pres. Kim Jong-Un

North Korean Crisis: How did it come to this?



WASHINGTON(AFP) - Tensions have soared in recent weeks over North Korea, which has threatened a nuclear strike against the United States and has allegedly moved missiles to its east coast.


HOW DID IT COME TO THIS?
The latest crisis erupted when North Korea fired a long-range rocket on December 12 that splashed down near the Philippines. Pyongyang said it was a peaceful satellite launch and US experts acknowledge that the regime put a small object into orbit.

The United States and its allies said that the launch was aimed at developing ballistic missile capabilities and moved at the United Nations to tighten sanctions. North Korea voiced anger and carried out its third nuclear test on February 12, defying even its main ally China.


The UN Security Council on March 7 unanimously approved new sanctions that include greater scrutiny of shady financial dealings by the impoverished regime. North Korea had warned of consequences for the UN vote and afterward renounced a 1953 armistice that ended the Korean War and declared itself at war with the US-allied South. North Korea's military has said it has final approval for a nuclear strike on the United States.
 
WHAT DOES NORTH KOREA WANT? Experts know little about North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, who is believed to be in his late 20s and who succeeded his father Kim Jong-Il in December 2011.
North Korea has indicated that it wants recognition as a nuclear weapons state -- seen as a guarantor of the regime's survival. The United States has refused.


Some experts believe North Korea is operating from a playbook of steadily upping the ante and had planned out actions to coincide with the inauguration of conservative South Korean President Park Geun-Hye.


WHAT ROLE HAVE US-SOUTH KOREA EXERCISES PLAYED?
The United States and South Korea are carrying out their annual "Foal Eagle" exercises through April after starting them in March. North Korea regularly denounces the tests as a preparation for war, but tensions have been especially high this year.

The United States took the unprecedented step of announcing latest run by
its nuclear-capable B-2 bombers. US officials said the step was meant to
reassure South Korea, but Pyongyang voiced outrage and US peace activists called the move provocative.

The United States has also sent to South Korea its stealth F-22 jets, moved
two destroyers to nearby waters and -- in response to North Korean threats
against US bases -- sent a missile defense battery to its Pacific territory of
Guam.
 
WHAT ARE NORTH KOREA'S CAPABILITIES?
North Korea is seen as capable of attacking South Korea and Japan, but experts doubt it can strike the United States with the possible exception of Guam.
The Arms Control Association research group estimates that North Korea's
Rodong-1 missile has a range of 1,300 kilometers (800 miles). The Musadan theoretically has a range of 3,000-4,000 kilometers (1,900-2,500 miles), but
North Korea has never tested it.


WHAT ARE THE US MILITARY RESOURCES IN THE REGION?
The United States stations 28,500 troops in South Korea and around 50,000 in Japan. It also keeps nearly 6,000 troops in Guam, a base for fighter-bombers and submarines, and 50,000 troops in Hawaii.

More than 40 US Navy vessels are permanently based in the Pacific with plans to increase the number as part of a growing US focus on Asia.

The Yokosuka base south of Tokyo is home to the USS George Washington aircraft carrier, two cruisers and seven destroyers. The USS John Stennis aircraft carrier is temporarily in Singapore on its way back from a mission in the Gulf.

       
ARE WE ON THE BRINK OF WAR?
Most experts consider North Korea's threats to be bluster but warn of the potential for miscalculations to blow up.

Stanford University's Siegfried Hecker, to whom North Korea revealed a uranium enrichment facility in 2010, doubted that Pyongyang would use nuclear weapons even if it could as such a step would "result in a devastating military response and would spell the end of the regime." Still, North Korea has a history of taking action around April 15, the 101st birth anniversary of the regime's founder Kim Il-Sung, grandfather of Kim Jong-Un. (WilmaYamzonBlogs)

GLOBAL LISTS OF 2.5 MILLION BANK ACCOUNTS OF WEALTHY AND FAMOUS PEOPLE REVEALED!!

                                              Gov. Imee R. Marcos of the Phils.

Global Lists of 2.5 Million 

Bank Accounts of Wealthy and Famous People Leak..

BRUSSELS - They are a large and diverse group that includes a Spanish heiress; the daughter of the former Philippine dictator Ferdinand Marcos; and Denise Rich, the former wife of the disgraced trader Marc Rich, who was pardoned by President Bill Clinton. But, according to a trove of secret financial information released Thursday, all have money and share a desire to hide it.

And, it seems safe to say, they - and thousands of others in Europe and far beyond, in places like Mongolia - are suddenly very anxious after the leak of 2.5 million files detailing the offshore bank accounts and shell companies of wealthy individuals and tax-averse companies.                                            
             
There will be people all over the world today who are now scared witless," said Richard Murphy, research director for Tax Justice Network, a British-based organization that has long campaigned to end the secrecy that surrounds assets held in offshore havens.                                                                                                    

The leaked files include the names of 4,000 Americans, celebrities as well as doctors and dentists.
It is not the first time leaks have dented a thick carapace of confidentiality that usually protects the identities of those who stash funds in the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Liechtenstein and other havens. Nor, in most cases, is keeping money in such places illegal.
But the enormous size of the data obtained by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, a Washington-based group that, along with affiliated news media organizations, announced its coup Thursday, has punched a big hole in the secrecy that surrounds what the Tax Justice Network estimates are assets worth at least $21 trillion held in offshore havens. "This could be a game-changer," said Murphy, the author of a book about offshore tax shelters. 

"Secrecy is the key product these places sell. Whether you are a criminal laundering money or just someone trying to evade or avoid taxes, secrecy is the one thing you want." Once this is gone, he added, "it creates an enormous fear factor" and has a "massive deterrent effect."
Lifting the curtain on the identities of those who keep their money offshore is likely to cause particular anger in austerity-blighted Europe, where governments have been telling people to tighten their belts but have mostly turned a blind eye to wealthier citizens who skirt taxes with help from offshore financial centers.

The leaked records, mainly from the British Virgin Islands, the Cook Islands and Singapore, disclose proprietary information about more than 120,000 offshore companies and trusts and nearly 130,000 individuals and agents, including the wealthiest people in more than 170 countries. Not all of those named necessarily have secret bank accounts, and in some cases only conducted business through companies they control that are registered offshore.

The embarrassment caused by Thursday's revelations has been particularly acute in France, where Socialist President Francois Hollande, who wants to impose a 75 percent tax on millionaires, has been struggling to contain a political firestorm touched off this week by a former budget minister's admission - after months of denials - that he had secret foreign bank accounts.

The scandal looked set to widen Thursday as senior members of the government were forced to confront allegations that Hollande and others may have been aware that the budget minister, Jerome Cahuzac, who resigned March 19, was lying but failed to act.

Adding to the president's trouble, the name of a close friend and treasurer of his 2012 election campaign, Jean-Jacques Augier, appeared in connection with the files released Thursday by the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists. Augier, according to the newspaper Le Monde, was identified as an investor in offshore businesses in the Cayman Islands, another well-known tax haven.

Augier, a friend of Hollande's, told Le Monde and Agence France-Presse that he had not done anything illegal or improper. He said that he had invested in funds that invested in China, and that he had no personal bank account in the Cayman Islands or any direct personal investment there. He conceded only that 'maybe I lacked a bit of caution.'

Others identified included Maria Imelda Marcos Manotoc, a provincial governor and eldest daughter of the former Philippine president; Olga Shuvalova, the wife of Russia's deputy prime minister, Igor Shuvalov; Gunter Sachs, a German playboy and photographer who killed himself in May 2011 at age 78; and Baroness Carmen Thyssen-Bornemisza, Spain's wealthiest art collector and the widow of a Thyssen steel company billionaire. The president of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, and his wife, Mehriban, were featured in the documents as having set up an offshore company in the British Virgin Islands, while their two daughters appeared in connection with three other offshore outfits.


The consortium did not specify how it got the information or where it came from. On its website, the group said "the leaked files provide facts and figures - cash transfers, incorporation dates, links between companies and individuals - that illustrate how offshore financial secrecy has spread aggressively around the globe, allowing the wealthy and the well connected to dodge taxes and fueling corruption and economic woes in rich and poor nations alike."

In Germany, which is now gearing up for national elections in September and which has both a strong sense of social justice and a long history of tax evaders sneaking funds into nearby Switzerland, politicians expressed concern, even outrage, over the disclosures. Of particular concern were indications that big banks in Germany and elsewhere are deeply involved in moving money beyond the reach of tax authorities.

"We should introduce tougher penalties for those financial institutions that are ideal for tax fraud or take part in it," Peer Steinbrueck, the Social Democratic Party's candidate for chancellor, was quoted as saying in the daily Sueddeutsche Zeitung.

The issue of tax avoidance has become a highly charged issue across much of Europe, particularly in richer northern countries that are increasingly fed up with demands for bailout funds from heavily indebted countries like Greece. A key demand of a recent bailout deal announced for Cyprus was that the nation drastically shrink its role as a financial center and, many in Germany suspect, a haven for money laundering.

Robert Palmer, a policy adviser for Global Witness, a London research group that focuses on corruption, said the naming of offshore account holders could have powerful political reverberations across Europe because "it shows that if you are wealthy and well-connected you play by different rules."

He said the information released so far did not shed any new light on how offshore finance works but was still significant because it identified people who used hidden shelters.

This is very unusual because it is so difficult to get any information out of these places,' he said. 'It adds to the picture of how easy it is to move money around and will build up the anger of people who are being asked to make cuts but see that there are people out there who benefit hugely from the system.'
-New York Times Service.. (WilmaYamzonBlogs)