ALLAN PINEDA LINDO OF "BLACK EYES PEAS"

This Filipino American member of the popular hip-hop group "Black Eyed Peas received a presidential award for his contribution to the music industry and to the Filipino heritage. THE FILIPINO-AMERICAN member of the popular American hip-hop group "Black Eyed Peas" brought the "House" down yesterday after being conferred a presidential award for his accomplishments in the music industry. The news about Allan: Pinoy 'Pea' brings 'House' down By Christine Avendaño Inquirer In Malacañang, which he referred to as the "House" at one point, Black Eyed Peas member Allen Pineda Lindo a.k.a. Apl.de.ap not only wowed the audience with his dance moves and trendy songs but also with his fellow band member's testimonial on how much he loved the Philippines. Longing for home Group member and long time friend of Pineda's, William James Adams, a.k.a. will.i.am, said he once saw him crying because he missed his home country. Pineda, who is of Filipino-African-American descent, was given up for adoption and brought to the United States. Presidential Merit Award Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita presented the award on behalf of President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo, who was down with the flu and had to cancel her appointments yesterday. "Not only have you come back home but you brought the Philippines to the whole world," Ermita told Pineda shortly after conferring on him the Presidential Medal of Merit and before the pair performed their popular hit songs "The Apl Song" and "Bebot." In the 'House' "I'm in the House and you know I got to see the people she (President) works with and the dedication these guys have," said Pineda. Big dream "This was a big dream for me and it feels good to be embraced," he also told reporters. He said he never thought he would be able to do the kind of music he does today and also meet President Arroyo. Ermita marvelled at Pineda's achievements, and said the latter set a good example for Filipinos. "He has succeeded (in his field) and I even heard he is a multimillionarie," Ermita said. "This is something we should thank President Arroyo for because she recognizes the Filipino talent from whatever kind or way of life he comes from."