Absolutely Filipino Magazine Winter 2015

Issue No. 7 winter 2015

Uplifting Pinoy

filipino trait

Resilience: An Absolute Filipino Attribute

FABULOUS WOMEN IN THE CITY Ms. Vancouver 2015

On Centre Stage

Warren Dean Flandez: Weaving Music in the Clouds

TRUE FILIPINA BEAUTIES

Ms. Calendar Girl 2015-2016 Coronation Gala

Internationally educated nurse

How good is your English?

trending news

“Tanim-bala” sa NAIA

Zest and Flavour Roast Pork Loin with Papaya Gravy

Soulful warren dean flandez

E DITOR ’ S NOT E

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s the New Year arrives, it is time again for celebration, making meaningful goals, and leveling up from the previous year’s success (or failures). To some, 2015 may have been full of trials and adversities, yet all of us can still call ourselves blessed for we are given another year to improve, grow, and explore. And if we maintain a positive attitude, I’m sure a lot of good things await us. Life is what we make it (as many of our stories here have taught us), and each day is a continuous battle between choosing the right or wrong decisions that will further or hinder our ambitions.

This coming year will be time again for Filipinos to elect a new set of government leaders. Let us pray that our countrymen will vote wisely and select the leaders who will help unite our nation, make it prosperous and peaceful once again.

For the Internationally Educated Nurses, I always remember you in our magazine issues. It's my simple way of giving back to the community by sharing many personal experiences when moving to Canada. If only possible, I would not want you to go through the hardships that I endured as a new immigrant. At the very least, I hope that we can make your struggles a little bit lighter through the many advice and information that we bring in our issues.

It was always our ambition to reach out to every Filipino in Canada and around the world through this publication by bridging the gap between us. We are here to tell the stories of people or group of people who inspire and make us proud to be called Filipinos. There are articles where we touch on the problems of our people or homeland that blemish our identity. But all of those are a challenge to prove that we can be better. Do not forget to celebrate our traits, culture, and talents that make us unique and resilient as a people.

I would like to thank our old and current contributing writers and the rest of our staff. Thanks for all your enthusiasm in continuing this venture with me and for sharing your excitement and your ideas for each new edition. You and the readers are the backbones of Absolutely Filipino Magazine. 2015 was a busy year for me, and I had my own struggles juggling work, family and this magazine (AND other extracurricular activities); but I am so grateful that with our team’s drive and tenacity, we still manage to publish quarterly.

In behalf of Absolutely Filipino Magazine, I would like to extend our thanks to all our readers and supporters. I hope that we will be able to continue what we have started until the very end. I wish you all of another year that is full of hope, love, and peace in our hearts. That whatever we do, we do it for the glory of our Maker. We wish you a happy New Year! To God be all the glory! #UPLIFTINGPINOY

Jinkee Porta-Mercurio PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Disclaimer: Absolutely Filipino Magazine is an inspirational and lifestyle magazine. The articles written in Absolutely Filipino do not necessarily reflect the views and beliefs of the publisher. All articles are designed for educational and informational purposes only, and no one should use it as a replacement for any expert's advice. Sponsors and advertisers are solely responsible for the content and legitimacy of information published within their ads and are not necessarily supported and recommended by the publisher. All material submitted for publication is considered to be the property of the advertiser. Advertisers who doesn't have their own art and asked Absolutely Filipino Magazine to aid in making the art or advertorial/write-up are responsible for its content.

All contents © Copyright 2015 No part of this magazine maybe reproduced in whole or in part without express permission.

LUKE 1:37 “FOR NOTHING IS IMPOSsIBLE WITH GOD.”

PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Jinkee Porta-Mercurio CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Dwight Simon Joandrea Santiago Kurt Zubieta Merryl Catherine Talan COPY EDITOR Joandrea Santiago FIELD REPORTER social media manager Dwight Simon LAYOUT AND DESIGN EDITOR John Paulo Fernandez PHOTOGRAPHY Dwight Simon Jinkee Mercurio Marlon Mercurio DREAMSTIME.COM (as specified) FLICKR.COM (as specified) CIRCULATION Marlon Mercurio FOR SALES AND ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: jinkee.mercurio@outlook.com 778-792-0071 • 778-792-0049 ANTONIO TAMPUS tonton_gem@yahoo.com 604-3568714 RYAN FERRER nryanferrer@gmail.com 778-241-4895 WEBSITE: jmpublishing.weebly.com

absolutelyfilipinomagazine

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ABSOLUTELY FILIPINO MAGAZINE WINTER 2015

on the cover: warren dean flandez photography: dwight simon

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inside 4

Filipino trait

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FABULOUS WOMEN IN THE CITY

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On Centre Stage

Warren Dean Flandez: Weaving Music in the Clouds

12

TRUE FILIPINA BEAUTIES

Ms. Calendar Girl 2015-2016 Coronation Gala

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Internationally educated nurse

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trending news

18

Zest and Flavour

16 18

Ms. Vancouver 2015

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Resilience: An Absolute Filipino Attribute

How good is your English?

“Tanim-bala” sa NAIA

Roast Pork Loin with Papaya Gravy

filipino trait

Resilience: An Absolute Filipino Attribute Texts and photo by Merryl Catherine Talan

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ust like a rubber band, challenges in life stretch us in unimaginable lengths. Yet we know that no matter what adversity comes our way, we must learn to cope, face these trials head on, and survive. We must be able to bounce back and continue our everyday lives.

Resilience, Filipinos are branded for this trait. Other countries remarked on how we were able to survive and rebuild after typhoons Haiyan, Reming, and Ondoy; the Mt. Pinatubo eruption; and even man-made crises like corruption in the government that led to the EDSA revolution. Many from the outside find it odd to see a 4-year-old boy smiling as he crosses the street of his flooded barangay--but that’s just how we are. I often think that maybe God puts those disasters in the Philippines because He knows we are the nation who can smile despite everything.

Yes, it is may be easier to be resilient in a land where other people share the same outlook towards hardships. But what if you find yourself migrating to a foreign land with a different set of norms, culture, and standards? In a land that might have a different attitude towards facing adversities, how is it that we remain resilient to a new set of challenges outside the context of the Philippines?

Migrants and Temporary Filipino Foreign Workers continue to flock to Canada with the numbers increasing every year.

In 2008, we surpassed China as Canada’s leading source of immigrants, and currently, there are almost 700,000 people of Filipino descent in this country we now call home. These thousands of migrants and TWFs may have left Philippines’ big typhoon, traffic jams, and political rallies, but they too have found themselves facing new challenges that test their resilience to a whole new level.

Language barrier (accent barrier perhaps?) Yes English is the lingua franca of our time, but once you talk to an Australian with their thick twang or perhaps that Indian IT expert in the office, their accent or slang may be unfamiliar compared to the American-English we are used to and had learned in school (and Hollywood movies).

Living cost. For a Filipino who has been used to earning and spending in pesos, earning and spending dollars, euro, or British pounds is different. Other countries (Canada included) have high living expense compared to the Philippines and getting by can be a challenging at first.

Misinformation (Memorization of rules and policies takes time): the fear of all migrants, OFWs, and TFWs. We do not know all the laws in a foreign land unlike how we know the laws in the Philippines. If I put my garbage on this side of the street or if I smoke in this area will they fine me? Am I going to be deported if I punch this douchebag? There are about a million questions and it takes time to familiarize oneself with laws of other countries. A Migrant/ OFW/TFW’s every day’s mantra is “Be good. Do not get yourself screwed at work. Thou shall not be deported”.

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Cultural differences. Canada’s beautiful culture is admirable whichever angle we look at it. Filipino culture is equally unique. But they differ in so many ways too. As a person living in a foreign land, you need to learn to adapt to the culture of the country you're in and adjust quickly. It’s like growing up using spoon and fork then suddenly having to eat every single meal in chopsticks.

And the list goes on.

A Filipino's will and level of resilience are faced with many new challenges when we find ourselves in a different land.

But the resilience we learned through the hardships and “chaos” of our homeland, which has been ingrained in our culture and identity, have helped us become conquerors of the challenges we face. Instead of whining and pointing out difficulties, we live, learn and thrive.

This magazine has featured many successful Filipino migrants and Filipino-Canadians who have found a good life in Canada. To mention a few, we have Christie Adela White, a Filipina-Canadian beauty queen who has started a fitness program for several causes she supports; Caroline Mangosing, a Filipina businesswoman who manages Kapisanan, a non-profit organization with programs for Filipino culture and arts; Joey Albert, a Filipina singer who continues to battle cancer and has become an inspiration to many; Mike Pagtakhan, a Filipino elected as the city councilor in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada; and Alex Pagulayan, a Filipino professional pool and snooker player often called “The Lion” or “The Killer Pixie”, who immigrated to Canada when he was just 13. These people are just some; there are many others among our community who shine despite diversity.

I am proud to belong to a people known for having a strong character and a fighting spirit. I’m sure that each of you have gone through hardships of your own and succeeded. And if you are in a tight spot right now, struggling either in our homeland or in a totally different environment, let me remind you again that you were made with strong, flexible stuff. You are resilient.

FABULOUS WOMEN IN THE CITY

Ms. Vancouver 2015

TEXTS AND PHOTOS BY DWIGHT SIMON

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his November, Vancouver Television held their annual Ms. Vancouver Pageant at the Sutton Place Hotel. The Mr. and Ms. Vancouver pageants are known to be the most progressive, equal opportunity, modern pageant Canada has ever seen. This is because the pageant accepts candidates from all cultures & ethnicities, all body types, any sexual orientation, and marital status, aged 18-35, residing in British Columbia. All the contestants are featured in Vancouver Television yearlong and are given training in Mind, Body & Soul by the veterans of media. The winners of the pageants become Vancouver ambassadors who will help raise funds for Mr. and Ms. Vancouver Charity Supporting Underprivileged children in the region.

Our very own Christine Adela White, who graced our cover and was featured in our summer issue this year, took home the tiara against 12 other competitors!

Let’s look at some of the highlights of the event!

Christine honoured her BC Ride To Conquer Cancer cycling team, Riders For Ryder, in this outfit designed by Paula Dee. The red balloon signifies the balloons released by the riders at the finish line after their long journey to pay tribute to their lost loved ones.

Christine joined the competition in the hopes of making a name in her community in order to widen the audience of her cause. Christine’s joins Ride to Conquer Cancer—a 2-day, 150-mile, epic bicycle ride—in her fifth straight year in memory of her sister Laura who passed away in 2002. Having ridden solo for her first four years, she now also joins Riders for Ryders, a team led by Jimi Brockett. It is no doubt that it was not only Christine’s charming personality and smile that won us, but her loving and passionate heart as well.

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Andy Ouedraogo addresses the crowd and judges in a passionate speech during the question and answer portion.

Marisa Pavone makes the competition green with envy during the evening gown portion.

Elissa Wolfe looks out to the crowd before turning with a flourish during the swimsuit portion.

Aphisara Grace heads to the catwalk looking stunning in her red evening gown.

Nargiza Gilfan gazes into the eyes of the adoring Sutton Place crowd.

Blue is definitely Nana Santos’ colour and she owned it during the evening gown potion.

Chalaine Allison tells the crowd a story with an interpretive dance.

Sara Mitchell smiles and acknowledges the judges during the swimsuit portion.

Madelyn McCallum cuts a rug on the catwalk during a highly entertaining performance.

Christine Adela White delivered a knock out performance with her young and talented band, The Rubber Duckies.

The newly crowned Ms. Vancouver poses with organizer Harmon Bal (R) after taking the win.

On Centre Stage

Warren Dean Flandez:

Weaving Music in the Clouds Texts and photos By Dwight Simon | Co-written by Joandrea Santiago

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rooving to his own melody, Warren Dean Flandez enters Studio Cloud 30 with equal parts confidence and coolness. Sounds of beautiful music waft into the guest’s ear, filling his or her head with questions.

“That’s just one of our students warming up!” WDF explains with a flourish.

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Studio Cloud 30 Studio Cloud 30 began in 2010 as a music school that operated out of a small room on Granville Street in Vancouver. For a while, the school took a backseat when Warren worked on and released Vintage Love.

“Everything happened when I turned 30”. This was when Warren got engaged to his now wife Katherine and when they moved to a downtown condo in a room on the 30th floor. Back when he taught in his old studio, he felt he was among the “clouds”. All these coming together created “Studio Cloud 30”.

Just like any good story, Warren’s starts with modest beginnings. His roots came from an architect father who hails from Ilocos Sur, and a mother who comes from Capas, Tarlac. Shortly after Warren was born, the Flandez family moved to Yellowknife, then to Alberta. The mild climate and mountain backdrop eventually brought them to Vancouver in the early 90s.

Music and performance were among Warren’s first loves and at 15 he joined the Vancouver Outreach Community Sweet Soul Gospel Choir. Here, he was fortunate to be under the wings of Checo Tohomaso, the musical director of the choir and a veteran artist who has performed with The Commodores, Marvin Gaye, and Lionel Ritchie. With the abundance of music and culture that surrounded him, his move to become a recording artist was for Warren a natural progression he just “fell into”.

Vintage Love Vintage Love was Warren’s debut album and that which earned him his fame. It was produced by his longtime friend and co-worker Mike Southworth and came out early in 2011. Vintage Love is a sensual telling of love, passion, and desire that hit a note in many people’s hearts.

The album became #2 in The Montreal Mirror’s R&B charts, beating out Jenifer Hudson and Mary J. Blige. It also reached #7 in the Vancouver Province’s Best Albums of 2011. Songs from the Album were picked up in ad campaigns from Abercrombie & Fitch and Hollister, and were featured on the CBC sitcom “Being Erica”. Vintage Love was popular in Japan while “You Were My Life” is still buzzing in Korea.

Warren and his wife Katherine It was not long after the success of Vintage Love that Studio Cloud 30 had to move to a bigger space to accommodate its growing clientele. The studio, now triple in size from the original, is located at the centre of Fairview Slopes. From its humble beginnings, Studio Cloud 30 has now become an artist development empire that Warren and Katherine operate together with their excellent staff.

The studio receives clients—both actors and singers—from different ages, demographics, and walks of life. Studio Cloud 30 is unique because aside from the basic music, voice, and acting lessons, it also teaches the “business of music and acting”. It offers services that touch every aspect of career creation from talent development to styling, photography, branding, opportunities to perform in events, and assistance in grant application. Everything you can get from a major label company, you can get in Studio Cloud 30. “We don’t offer a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach at Studio Cloud 30”, says Warren. Each of their clients is assessed and afterwards given the services custom-tailored to their needs.

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What the World Needs Now “I’ve been working so hard expanding Studio Cloud 30 over the last four years that I wasn’t able to work on [my new album]”. Worry not because our long wait is finally over! Warren’s new album, “What the World Needs Now (WWNN)”, was just released this November.

WWNN takes a turn from his sensual and sexually charged first album. “It’s a gospel album”, he says and reflects how Warren has matured both as an artist and now as a husband and successful business owner. It is also a return to his roots of inspirational gospel music combined with his signature sound of storytelling with a smooth, modern vibe.

Studio Cloud 30 is a reflection of Warren hard work and success. It is cool and modern, yet charming and welcoming. Upon entering the studio, you will be greeted by beautiful open spaces, white walls and fixtures, contrasted by a splash of vivid dark furnishings that are enlivened by the sunlight that comes through its massive windows. The modern, minimalist aesthetic gives the impression of high-class professionalism, as well as an invitation for creativity to blossom, similar to a blank canvas awaiting its painter’s strokes.

The first single “Joy” is upbeat and positive—it will make you get up from your seat, sing and dance along.

Warren Currently Not one to sit on his laurels, Warren continues to expand the Studio Cloud 30 empire. He has put together a 40-person choir called “Top Line Vocal Collective” that has played a number sold out shows at different events in Vancouver. “We have a little bit of something for everybody,” he says, explaining that the choir will cover anything from James Taylor to Snow to Blackstreet. They have already played three sold out shows at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre and is very much sought- after by a lot of local events and fundraisers.

These days, in any sort of business, you have to move fast, or you will get left behind. Warren does just that and leaves the crowd wanting more. And that’s just fine with us

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Studio Cloud 30 photos grabbed from Studio Cloud 30 Facebook Page

Every voice lesson is done in the recording booth, so the artists have a fully authentic experience of creating music.

This is something that cannot be found elsewhere, but Studio Cloud 30 wants each of their artists to feel that theirs is a place that welcomes exploration and the assurance that you are working with the very best.

Sources: The Rush On Shaw Interview, published Feb 19, 2014, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lv9_inYLcb4 Soul to Soul: Warren Dean Flandez, Dailymotion, http://www.dailymotion.com/video/xl42qj_soul-to-soul-warren-dean-flandez-at-hmv_music Studio Cloud 30 Facebook page: http://facebook.com/studiocloud30

“When you go through the sea, I am with you. When you go through rivers, they will not sweep you away. When you walk through fire, you will not be burned, and the flames will not harm you.”

- Isaiah 43:2 God’s Word Translation

TRUE FILIPINA BEAUTIES

Miss Calendar Girl 2015 - 2016

Coronation Gala texts and Photos by Dwight Simon

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uzvimin-Bisaya Association of British Columbia is a non-profit organization founded on October 20, 2012.

It aims to bring together Bisaya-speaking Filipinos in BC and hold annual fundraising events for the benefit of remote communities in the Philippines.

The Miss Calendar Girl Pageant, which began two years ago, is now Luzvimin-Basaya Association’s signature event. Over 500 guests together with the eleven beautiful contestants, and a star-studded panel of judges attended the show last October 17. Proceeds from the event will be allocated towards assisting active Luzvimin-Bisaya Cebuano members and the Luzvimin’s Remote Philippines Elementary School Drive charity.

Here are some of our favourite shots from the event!

Nikka Bagasbas struts her stuff during the creative outfit portion of the competition.`

Janessa Wilson is all smiles for the camera!

Camille Tan flaunts the Maple Leaf during the creative outfit portion of the competition.

Gigi Grey-Ricarse, all-star emcee for this year’s Miss Calendar Girl, shows off her supermodel skills. We look forward to seeing you on the catwalk Gigi!

Kristine Padua dressed as cupid in honour of being Miss February. Your love potion worked on us!

Shanika Ortega slays the crowd during the special outfit portion of the competition.

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Shawna Warhurst poses for a portrait during a break in the action.

Verna Bohn, creative director (centre, in black), poses with the gorgeous candidates!

Mary Princess Dumalag, Kristine Padua, Nikka Bagasbas, Shawna Warhurst (L to R) and Camille Tan (centre) are all laughs!

The Luzvimin crew poses with the candidates at the end of the show!

Jasmine Vega, the reigning Miss Calendar Girl 2013-2014, poses for the camera before eventually passing on the tiara to this year’s winner.

Jasmine Vega, middle right adjusts the tiara after graciously passing it onto Shawna Warhurst.

Shawna Warhurst, crowned Miss Calendar Girl 2015-2016, is an 18-year-old Filipino-Canadian, who is studying under the Liberal Arts Program at Douglas College. She also bagged the following awards: Miss Photogenic, Most Creative Outfit, Miss Bikini Beautiful and Best in Long Dress.

“I am honoured to be the face of the Luzvimin’s Remote Philippines Elementary School Drive charity and promote this important cause. We are so very fortunate here in Canada we sometimes forget how blessed we truly are. Getting an education is essential for every child. With the help from this charity, dreams are coming true, and students can go to school with the essentials they need. Being a part of Miss Calendar Girl, I not only get to be doing what I most enjoy and love, but I also become active in sharing and creating awareness for an important cause.”

Congratulations, Shawna!

The event’s creative director Verna Bohn was very pleased with how the event turned out. According to her, “It was a collective effort with the Board of Directors and members. The girls were amazing and so easy to work with!” And with that, we wish Luzvimin-Bisaya more success!

Reference: Luzvimin-Bisaya Association of BC Website: http://www.luzvimin-bisaya.com/ Ms. Verna Bohn

Internationally educated nurse

How Good is your English?

TEXTS AND PHOTO BY JINKEE MERCURIO

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n our maiden issue, I mentioned that learning to be adept in the English language is one of the biggest challenges that we Filipino immigrants in Canada need to face. It is true that most of us can reasonably converse in English, however, it is a different ballgame when we are faced with English proficiency examinations that are prerequisites to practice our profession. And as I nurse I was not exempt from this.

Passing an English proficiency exam was one of the hardest things I had to go through especially because English is not my first language, and I’m sure many of you can relate. I’ve heard horrible stories about taking and passing the English exam and I, myself, almost begged the examiner to let me pass because of the dread I felt before taking the exam, during, and even after.

Personally, I felt that the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) was more difficult than the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination! That’s why after passing that test I swore that I would do everything in my power to never have to go through that again!

Being an internationally educated nurse yet born outside a native English-speaking country, it left me no choice but to undergo the IELTS. Although there are other types of English test available in Canada, IELTS is considered as one of the most popular. Like in any language proficiency test, your skill in Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking are measured.

I advise you to evaluate which among these criteria are your strengths and weaknesses so you can prioritize and focus on the particular ones that need improvement. In my case, I am not really good at Listening. For that reason, I gave extra effort and spent time on listening to different radio stations from USA, United Kingdom as well as Australia. I also tried to practice speaking English as much as I can; my husband helped me practice for the Speaking test when we were in the Middle East. And since there was no review center in our previous place, I looked for and subscribed to an online IELTS review on the Internet. I tell you, it takes a lot of practice, effort, and determination to pass the IELTS, plus this test is a little bit costly ($295.00 for both Academic and General Training)—so you better make it count.

FREE IELTS PROGRAM IN VANCOUVER AREA DOUGLAS COLLEGE Good news! Douglas College is offering a free course for IELTS preparation especially made for Internationally Educated Nurses.

• This program is for IEN who are planning to become a Registered Nurse in Canada and has to take the IELTS as part of their initial requirement.

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• It is a four-week program that will give you the skills, knowledge and confidence to pass the IELTS assessment.

• The course’s goal is to help the IENs understand the tests format and to let them know what to expect. At the same time, the course will develop your skills and teach you correct techniques that will help build confidence.

• You will learn the proper approach to IELTS tasks and questions, including test-taking strategies to avoid common pitfalls, as well as how to manage time effectively during the exam.

• Nursing terminology was also added to this program to help newcomers become familiarized with nursing terminologies that are being utilized in a Canadian workplace.

• A Career Advancement component was also added to provide the newcomers an orientation to the BC Healthcare system, the healthcare workplace, and the local labour market conditions related to the healthcare sector. There is also an opportunity to meet the nursing experts from different fields making it easier for the IENs to broaden their horizons within the nursing field.

Schedule and location: • Starting dates - January and February 2016 • Classes run Tuesday, Thursday evenings and Saturdays for 4 weeks • Held at the Douglas College Burnaby Training Centre: #2024250 Kingsway Ave., Burnaby • Transportation supports are provided • • • •

Eligibility requirements: Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) Permanent Resident of Canada for less than 5 years Assessed at a minimum of CLB 7 3 years experience as an IEN To register and for more details: IELTSforIENs@douglascollege.ca | 604 588 7772

PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION FOR INTERNATIONALLY EDUCATED NURSES (PCIEN) KWANTLEN POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is offering a free course on Professional Communication for IENs (PCIEN).

• “PCIEN is a performance-based course designed to assist internationally educated nurses in improving communication for entry into professional practice; expand health and idiomatic vocabulary, and increase understanding of culturally expected behaviours in the Canadian healthcare system.”

• This is a tuition-FREE program for eligible Internationally Educated RNs, LPNs or RPNs. The entrance requirements for the PCIEN are as follows: • Have a minimum of 1 year of experience in the specified occupation inside or outside of Canada and/or be preparing to apply for licensure.

• Have proof of occupational certification as an RN, LPN or RPN from his/her source country.

• Have been a Permanent Resident for 5 years or less • Be able to commit to attending the program Monday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings for 9 weeks on the Richmond KPU Campus.

• • • • • • •

Application and Procedures: You must submit proof of language proficiency.

The following tests are accepted: IELTS Score: 6.0 - with a minimum score of 6.0 for listening, speaking and reading and 5.0 for Writing iBT TOEFL score: 79 with a minimum score of 19 for listening and speaking and 18 for writing cBT TOEFL scores 200 including TWE 4 and TSE 40 with minimum Listening Scaled score of 21 CLBPT (Canadian Language Benchmark Placement Test) Score within the 6-9 range with minimum of 7 for Listening and Speaking and 6 for Reading and Writing or an overall average of 6.5 (for CLBPT testing locations visit language.ca)

NOTE: If you do not have the required language assessment, please ask them for the list of offices where the assessment can be taken.

Submission: Please submit the following documents along with your application • Proof of Language Proficiency • Copies of your professional certification • Copies of proof of residency Thanks are credited to both Walter Lumamba of Men In Nursing (Provincial Chair) and IEN Initiative Program of BC Nurses Union member, and another member of IENs of BC Facebook group for notifying us about these courses on the IENs of BC Facebook page. Many thanks also to Tamanna of KPU for giving us further details on the PCIEN course.

IELTS is just a taste of what’s to come For me, passing the IELTS was only the beginning of my relationship with English. I compare it to a first date on what would be a very long marriage. Once you start working in an environment where English is the medium of instruction—well that’s another story! Believe me, I used to have a “nose-bleed” (it is a Filipino joke when you have trouble understanding and speaking English) when I was a new nurse at my workplace.

There were people who talked very fast and if I didn’t pay attention I ended up lost and baffled. Honestly, sometimes I do not understand some of the things they say due to my limited vocabulary. The worst part was when my colleagues couldn’t understand right away what I was trying to tell them. That was very frustrating. It was so hard to express my thoughts as accurately as I would in Filipino. Take heart and don’t lose hope.

The best way to learn is by doing, and by doing it gets easier.

So start practicing now and take advantage of the free courses mentioned here!

Reference: IENs Of BC Facebook Page Walter Lumamba http://www.kpu.ca/aca/els/pcien

Who is Eligible?

Eligibility requires the following criteria: • Meet Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s eligibility for language training • Must be either Unemployed or Underemployed • Must be living in British Columbia • Not be a student (that is, must not be enrolled in high school or taking post-secondary courses) Course Start and End Dates The intake date is set for the Spring 2016 season, which will run from January 4 - March 14, 2016. The program will run on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday nights from 6:30 pm – 9:20 pm plus 6 hours per week of online work.

Course Location: The course will be held at the Kwantlen Polytechnic University RICHMOND Campus.

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trending news

"Tanim-bala" sa Naia texts by Kurt Zubieta | Photo by Mark Jester Marasigan

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he Philippines as one of the most visited tourist destinations in Asia is again on worldwide spotlight.

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), as Philippine’s primary airport, was criticised not only to be one of the worst airports in the world, now adding insult is the alleged extortion tactics of their security personnel by way of the “Tanim-bala” (bullet-planting) scam.

According to Republic Act No. 10591, otherwise known as the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Act, it is unlawful for any person to possess or buy firearms and ammunition without a license. In 2004, Executive Order 311 signed by former President Arroyo appointed the Office of Transport Security (OTS) as the lead implementing agency for this law. This law then became the vehicle for alleged OTS and PNP Aviation Security Group (PNP-ASG) personnel to extort from innocent travelers.

The tanim-bala scam was first reported by a British national who had posted a warning at www.tripadvisor.com last September 18, 2012. She claimed of paying $100 to an OTS personnel after finding a bullet in her bag in exchange for her An Ofw Takes Selfie At Naia Terminal 3 clearance. The scheme until now is being practiced, and the officials of the airport are in a blaming game. of Manila International Airport Authority; Sec. Jun How does it work?

Abaya, Department of Transport and Communications According to ABS-CBN’s interview with former OTS Secretary; Roland Recomono, OTS Administrator; Chief/ personnel, the usual targets are OFWs, elderly, foreign Superintendent Pablo Francisco Balagtas, PNP-Aviation group members, those who have connecting flights and Security Director; and Manuel Antonio Eduarte, National domestic flights. A “spotter” looks at passengers’ airport Bureau of Investigation Task Force director on the Tanimprofile and chooses the potential target. These people have Bala. Victims Gloria Ortinez, a 56-year-old domestic helper been doing this for such long time that they know when, in Hong Kong, and Lane Michael White, an American where and how to plant a bullet in the victim’s bag. After missionary were also present to give their testimonies to the bullet is successfully planted on the chosen victim, the senators. another cohort will scan the baggage a couple of times until Upon questioning the victims, it was clear that extortion they announce that there is a bullet inside-–this is where was the main purpose of these cases. Both Ortinez and the extortion takes place.

White were forced to admit that they owned the bullets The victims are threatened to be jailed or to lose their found in their bag and were asked to pay money in visa, which they had worked hard to obtain. Considering exchange for dropping the criminal charges that will be the threat and the legal trouble of going through with a filed against them. On the other hand, airport and transport complaint, the victim instead pays an exuberant amount officials, Abaya and Honrado, pointed fingers on who had offered by an OTS officer for him to be cleared with the jurisdiction on the CCTV footage of Ortinez’s in the airport allegation. The PNP-ASG personnel are also under scrutiny (Honrado later admitting to having the footage), as well as and are said to get a cut from the scam. who had the responsibility to look into the case. This lack of accountability and coordination is a sign of a “failure in Senate Probe the system”, according to Sen. Guingona III. Meanwhile, Last November 12, 2015, the Senate opened its the NBI investigating group requested for an extension in investigation on the alleged tanim-bala scam. The officials their investigation when they missed their deadline last present were: Jose Angel Honrado, General Manager November 18.

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The good news is that the file against Gloria Ortinez was dismissed by the Department of Justice, and she is now being assisted by her lawyer to regain her employment in Hong Kong. Other victims who have filed a complaint are also awaiting a positive decision/ dismissal on their case.

How to avoid Tanim-bala • You should first inspect your luggage before packing making sure you are not carrying any prohibited items to your flight. While on the airport, never lose sight of your bag and don’t let anyone else touch it.

• During the inspection, you must always be present and keep an eye on the procedure the personnel is doing.

• Use hard-case luggage and avoid ones with many external pockets.

• Use a cling wrap to secure your bag, that way it would be difficult for opportunists to plant a bullet.

• Do not talk when you are questioned; wait until your attorney arrives. Remember the Miranda rights: “You have the right to remain silent and anything you say or do can and will be used against you in the court of law.

You have the right to have an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, one will be appointed for you.”

• Lastly, Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) chief Persida Acosta advised travelers to call the PAO Manila Hotline (02)929-94-36 or 09192625190 if you are accused of carrying a bullet in a Philippine airport.

Zest and Flavour

Roast Pork Loin Papaya Gravy with

texts and photos by Dwight Simon

I

t is wintertime again here in Canada and the cold season calls for some good "stick to your ribs" kind of food!

This recipe will remind you of the flavours of our Philippine home and the zests of the tropics put together on a big pork loin roast! I hope my recipe will leave you full and warm during the wintertime, and that you will enjoy this mouthwatering recipe with your friends and family—holiday or not.

The rub A "rub" is a spice and/or herb mixture that is applied to food for the purpose of adding flavor.

For the rub, we go to different countries to find our ingredients.

We go to Jamaica first, where we picked up some pimento. (If you have ever tried jerk chicken, pimento is where that characteristic jerk flavour comes from.) Mexico is our next stop where we pick up some dried guajillo chillies. Then, back to the Philippines where we'll get daing for its dried, stinky, salty and fishy flavour. All these regions have papaya in common. So that is what I used to tie everything together, bringing sweetness and body to our gravy.

About the Editor Dwight Simon is a foodenthusiast and a blogger. He is also a photographer in Vancouver and a nurse by profession.

You can reach him at 604-781-5483 or through his email:dwightsimon@gmail.com.

You can also visit his blog: dwightsimon. blogspot.ca

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Absolutely Filipino Magazine

Rub (all spices are to be ground up finely in a mortar and pestle) • 10 – 12 Dried Pimento berries • ¼ stick Cinnamon • 2 pinches Fennel Seeds • 2 pinches Black Peppercorns • 3 Dried Guajillo Chillies • 3 pieces Star Anise • Very finely chopped Daing, bones included, 2 fish • 6 fresh garlic cloves, finely chopped • ½ cup Brown Sugar Pork roast and Gravy • 1 pork loin roast, cut in half, making two big pieces • 1 medium ripe papaya, peeled, deseeded and cut into a large dice • 2 small sweet onions, large dice • 1 cup water • 3 or 4 cubes cold, unsalted butter

There may be a big pork loin in this dish, but the real star of the show is the gravy! These things do take a lot of time because your flavours need to develop, but don't worry, it's worth the wait!

The first step is to wash your pork under cold water and then pat it dry with paper towels. Keeping it dry will ensure that you get a good crust on the meat when it hits a hot frying pan. I am using a cast iron pan because you can pop it into an oven, eliminating the need for a roasting tray. (Using less equipment means less washing.

The faster you get the job done, the faster you can get back to entertaining your guests!)

Get that pan really hot and sear off your pork. As the proteins in your roast heat up, they will naturally shorten and you will see the whole roast curl up in the pan. Use your tongs, and push down on the meat when it curls. This will ensure that all the parts of the meat will make contact with the hot pan and you get an even colour throughout.

Once you have the roasts seared off, take them out of the pan and put them aside on a plate. Turn the heat down on your pan and add your onions. The onions are going to be used as a "bed" where the meat will rest while roasting in the oven, hence, the reason why they need to be cut in large pieces. Think of it as a delicious, edible roasting rack!

Meanwhile, once the roasts have had a chance to cool off slightly, start applying your rub. By this time, your onions will have picked up a little bit of colour. Add your papaya to the pan, mix it around and add a splash of water. Bring the works to a boil and add your roasts to the pan, taking care to rest them on the bed of onions and papaya. Sprinkle the remaining rub on top of the roasts and put the whole pan in a preheated 350 degrees F oven. Keep it close to the top element. The brown sugar in the rub will caramelise, leaving a crispy crust.

Roast until you reach an internal temperature of 71 degrees C or 160 degrees F. Cast iron pans retain heat very well, so when they are done take them out of the pan and onto a plate to rest for 10 to 15 minutes. This is so that the juices in the meat retain a lot of the kinetic

energy from the heat of the oven. Resting allows the juices to cool down a bit and get absorbed back into the fibers of the meat. Cutting into a blistering hot roast is bad practice because those juices will escape the meat, leaving it dry.

Now it is time to make the sauce. Take a spoon and take out about ¾ of the fat left in the pan. Leave some in!

It will add body and flavour to your sauce. Put it back on the stove and sauté your onions and papaya. Do it for 30 seconds to a minute. Add a cup of water to deglaze, taking care to incorporate all the brown bits stuck to the bottom of the pan into your sauce. Reduce to a sauce consistency and take it off the heat. While the pan is off the heat, add your butter cubes one at a time. Mix thoroughly in between. The butter will melt seamlessly into the sauce leaving a beautiful shiny sheen and buttery flavour. At this point, you can strain your sauce through a sieve. I happen to like having bits of onion and papaya in my gravy so I usually skip this step.

Now that the meat has rested, you can slice it! I like to cut it into thick slices and have my guests treat it as if it were a thick pork chop. Serve with mashed potatoes or rice and a nice salad. And don’t forget to top it with that gravy!

Christine Adela White Ms. Vancouver 2015

AFM’s Cover Girl for Summer 2015 Photography: Dwight Simon Hair & Make Up: Daljeet Nanara Dress: Paula Dee Mann

Absolutely Filipino Magazine Winter Edition

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