Absolutely Filipino Magazine Summer 2014

Summer 2014

Let’s Get

Married

A Life with

MARLA

A Legendary Encounter with

MR. BOY KATINDIG

Zumba:

Step Up…Step into life

“I DO” in the Philippines 1

AdveRtorial

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choices. Buying a new home is a big decision, and there’s a lot you need to know before signing on the dotted line. When you’re ready to start your real estate search, count on Billie to show you the way to the right home, in the right neighborhood, at the best price!

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Billie will work for you every step of the way! Her combination of skills, experience, and technology ensures that she can sell your home at the highest possible price and in the shortest period of time. She has the tools to meet the demands of a highly competitive, modern market. Billie’s online marketing system allows her to make information accessible 24-hours a day, and to respond immediately and directly to each and every prospective buyer. Plus, your property will be included in any printed MLS

How can Billie help you?

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books. She also regularly publishes direct mail pieces and sends out online email campaigns to potential buyers.

Billie will help you prepare so that sellers perceive you as a preferred buyer, help you locate and assess properties for sale that match your specifications, and help you through the myriad of details attending the actual purchase. She is always familiar with the current homes on the market and knows neighborhood values well. She can help you determine which properties are fairly-priced and in good condition before you start your search. She can help you find the right home for you and she will help you complete your financing and inspections, and close on the transaction. Her top priority is to make sure that you home buying experience is pleasant, cost-efficient, and successful.

Summer 2014

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A LEGENDARY ENCOUNTER WITH MR. BOY KATINDIG

This is the best time for you to know the Filipino jazz music legend.

15 A real story about raising a child with social, A LIFE WITH MARLA

emotional and behavioral difficulties.

17 Filipinos who experienced tough times can relate DIFFICULTIES OF FILIPINO IMMIGRANTS IN CANADA

to it. This is for you to look back on your humble beginnings and for the newcomers, these are what to expect on the first few years. Do not be afraid to try, give yourself a chance. Just think about the old saying, “If others can, why can’t I.”

would like to remember the heroes of the war, 19 We they will always be in our hearts.

FORGET THEM NOT

FEATURES

6 COMPUTER GAMES ON HUMAN

THE IMPACT OF INTERNET AND RELATIONSHIPS

Computer games and internet are undisputably popular among the people nowadays, but we cannot simply deny the fact that its widespread use has short-term and long-term effects.

COLUMNS

21 KALAYAAN... isang dipinisyon POETRY

wedding has its own story to tell. Every bride 8 Every has their own dream wedding. It depends on what

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LET’S GET MARRIED

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available resources and technology they can utilize to achieve their ultimate goal. Let’s take a peek at the past, then we will take you to the modern times.

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POSTMODERNISM, THE EVOLUTION OF THE TRADITIONAL “I DO” IN THE PHILIPPINES- FEATURE

FILIPINO EVENTS PHILVETS CELEBRATES BATAAN DAY BOY KATINDIG LIVE IN VANCOUVER HEALTH & WELLNESS ZUMBA: STEP UP... STEP INTO LIFE

26 NATIONAL NURSING ASSESSMENT

Have a glimpse of the old traditional Filipino wedding to the most innovative way of creating an astonishing and delightful wedding. Traditions exist, but its essence is hard to preserve. Change is inevitable.

FYI FOR INTERNATIONAL NURSES: SERVICE AND SEC ASSESSMENT

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PUBLISHER EDITOR-IN-CHIEF JINKEE PORTA-MERCURIO CONTRIBUTING WRITERS DWIGHT SIMON VICENTE VALDEZ JR. KURT ZUBIETA RITCHEL REPIL MA. LOURDES MECHILENA NIÑA ANGELA P. CABASCO COPY EDITORS OLIVIA OREDINA GINA GELLA ROY MIJARES LAYOUT AND DESIGN EDITOR JASON ESPINOSA PHOTOGRAPHY FRANCIS LIM JOMARI DUMALASA DWIGHT SIMON JASON ESPINOSA DREAMSTIME.COM (AS SPECIFIED) CIRCULATION MARLON MERCURIO FOR SALES CONTACT: JINKEE.MERCURIO@OUTLOOK.COM PHONE NUMBERS: 604-593-7518/778-792-0071

WEBSITE: JPMPUBLISHING.WEEBLY.COM All contents © copyright 2014; no part of this magazine maybe reproduced in whole or in part without express permission.

LUKE 1:37 “FOR NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD.” 4

Editor’s letter

FRESH AND NEW I

t is my honour to welcome you to the very first issue of Absolutely Filipino. It is a Filipino community-lifestyle magazine that strives to reach out all our Kababayan (fellow Filipinos) here in British Columbia, as well as the entire Canada. Just like any other periodicals, our primary purpose is to inspire people and to provide accurate and honest information that is beneficial, relevant and suitable to our community. I am so proud to tell you that the first edition is an outcome of genuine labour of love.

Why Filipino Audience?

I firmly believe that if we, Filipinos, are fused together as one, nothing could really hinder us from creating a well-defined and tremendous influence in our society. That is why, this is dedicated to our beloved fellow Filipinos who have touched our lives, to those who performed above and beyond the call of their duty, to those who’s not in any way become tired of doing great things for his family and to those whom we cherish the most. And through this magazine, I want to showcase how noble a Filipino man can be whenever he is given the opportunity to display and prove it. I know we can always shine and excel in our every crafty endeavour, in every role that is entrusted to us, in every responsibility that is being placed on our shoulders, and in every test that we are about to take. We glory in being able to survive and recover quickly even in the midst of surging storms. ALL WE NEED IS CHANCE.

This magazine wants us to be all things to all our Kababayan. We may be small and new, but we are committed in giving inspiration and encouragement so that we can always bring a smile on every Filipino faces. I know, it sounds very ambitious, but there’s no harm in trying. Always remember that genius is just ten percent inspiration but ninety percent perspiration. It is our major ambition to make Absolutely Filipino your haven and sanctuary, for it is heart-warming, soul-stirring, inspirational and optimistic. Furthermore, we yearn to celebrate the happiness and delight brought by June wedding experience. We also want to acknowledge every wonderful soldier for their great sacrifices during World War II, they will always be an inspiration to us.

We hope you enjoy our first issue. I thank my friends and family, who paved the way for the publication of this magazine. It was such a pleasure working with you. I thank my best friend for having the foresight to support me in putting this concept into life. I couldn’t believe we made it! I thank our God Almighty for all the grace and mercy He showered on us to make everything possible.

We are pretty serious and eager to hear any feedback coming from you as we are continuously experimenting and exploring the different kind of writing styles and format to give you the exact reading material that you deserve.

We are inviting our Kababayans to contribute articles on cultural and social issues, community events, life enriching projects, professional development, health, business, food, travel, places, fashion, designs, movies, books or anything that will benefit the Filipino people. If you have questions or suggestions on a particular topic, feel free to contact us.

JINKEE PORTA-MERCURIO

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief

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THE IMPACT OF INTERNET AND COMPUTER

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GAMES ON HUMAN RELATIONSHIPS

ately, I was reading the local newspaper, The Metro and an article had caught my attention.

According to it, current online computer games are highly income-generating to its developers because more and more people are purchasing products related to it. For some, it all started out as an innocuous recreation. In a certain period of time, their family, friends, school even personal hygiene are being neglected due to the long hours being spent on it. The psychologists revealed that playing computer games is becoming a habit for many of us, which I supposed is a bad habit. A bad habit can turn into an addiction. Although, it is a lesser form of evil compared to addiction to alcohol, prohibited drugs and gambling, addiction is still addiction. Period.

Let me give you an example.

Your children are complaining that you’re not giving enough time for them, and they think that you are frequently spending your time with computer. Your wife can’t even ask you simple questions whenever you are in front of it. It annoys you because she is bothering you while you are resting, with your computer of course.

During a confrontation, negating the problem will always be your first defense.

It pisses you off if somebody tells you what they have noticed in your attitude.

I can still recall a film I had seen

a long time ago, where Ashton Kutcher and Uma Thurman starred in a tale of a May-December love affair. The woman in the movie had so much disappointment when she bought her boyfriend a play station because his time, and attention for her was being divided.

I am not against in any computer games though I am not really a fan of it except maybe for Sims (long time ago), but using it without proper control and limitations can steal quality time with our family. The exemption of course is when we are playing it interactively with them. I have seen among children, instead of playing with other kids, they started to use their tablets and play games all by themselves or play along with other kids online. Many parents are using these gadgets as tactics to keep their children from bugging them. How was that? In spite of that, it is usually acceptable in our current social norms. But if we will only think about it over and over again, we will realize that this is not the best way at all. It has a bad effect on their relationship with other kids, it can alter their concentration and ability to focus, plus it can cause changes in their attitudes, behaviour and

Photo: Dreamstime.com 6

By: Jinkee Mercurio

Photo: Dwight Simon

Photo: Dwight Simon their well-being in general.

I’ve also seen my Facebook friends who gets really annoyed and quickly irritated whenever they are playing Flappy Bird. Some were even reacting violently, but they keep on playing it anyway.

Can you tell exactly how all these various sort of games is really affecting us? I can also recall, when I was still working in the Middle East, I had my fellow nurses who were regularly waking up in the middle of the night just to harvest their crops in Farm Town and Farm Ville. It bothers them that they will lose their crops if they don’t harvest it on a stipulated time. Seriously?!? Eventually, gamers’ main purpose is to break free from the mundane reality. That is why some games, even simple ones, attract users and get them hooked right away. In the book, Glued to Games, Scott Rigby explains the kind

of connection the game and the gamers have. For them, the need for competence is being met. They feel like that they have all the required mastery, skills and power to accomplish things. Another thing that is being satisfied is the need for autonomy. This is people’s desire to become independent, and in charge over the situation. One more thing that we often search for is relatedness. We constantly want to be associated, connected and be a part of something that could make us proud of ourselves. Relatedness can be fulfilled in a gamer’s life by playing games with a buddy online. For the people who’s into video games, it’s not merely about the “fun” but it is more than that.

It’s about the emotional satisfaction that a game can give. I know we all have psychological needs, but it is really crucial to understanding our own limitations and boundaries. We should not neglect our role and responsibilities to the significant people in our lives.

So the point that I am trying to make here is that, everything that is too much or extreme can harm us. It doesn’t only pertain to this matter, but it is also applicable in all areas of our lives.

We can always bend rules and justify ourselves, but the truth won’t change anything. We can always hurt the people we love from the slightest and simplest things that we do. If you are a parent, what do you think the kind of example you are setting to your children? People are always using the phones, not for calling someone but for playing games. We are constantly using the internet not to get the best information, but to check out the social networks even while working.

Nowadays, less interaction among families is a common observation because most of us are always on our electronic gadgets. Some people tend to forget to say grace before a meal but never fail to post the food on the table on Facebook and Instagram. You know what, time is so precious, we’re not supposed to waste it.

On the other hand, technology wasn’t really bad at all. I can still enumerate thousands of reason how it helps us in our everyday lives. Remember, most of it was invented because it was a necessity.

Can you even think of calculating using the Abacus? Good thing I wasn’t born during those times. I can’t imagine myself

living, away from the convenience and comfort that was brought by the latest technology. For instance, it helps us connect with our loved-ones from different places all over the globe. Can you believe, if we are still using mails and letters that usually take months before reaching its destination as the means of our present communication? I bet, getting drench in melancholia and homesickness will definitely kill us.

Technology has done so much to bridge the gap across the miles to alleviate and mitigate our strong desire to return home. It is supposed to keep the family closer, not the other way around.

As a human, possessing the highest form of reasoning and judgment, technology is designed to be operated and controlled by us, not the technology to dominate and manipulate us. As for the computer games, there are also some studies proving that it helps to stimulate our brains as well as enhancing our visual perception.

If only use appropriately, it can be a good source of fun and can assist us to craft our experiences that involve our intellects both cognitively and socially.

Photo: Kenneth Ramos 7

Let’s Get

Married K By: Niña Angela P. Cabasco

asalan or weddings are gaining more popularity and exposure lately, be it on TV or online and perhaps we can attribute that to the technology that we have today. It’s really easy to have them documented and posted on Youtube or other video-sharing sites. I can’t really imagine how it was for my parents’ time. Was there someone who taped the event on a huge, heavy video camera? Plus, there are also a lot of proposal and prenup videos (creatively made ones, at that) that have gone viral on the internet.

Then we also have celebrities who can have their own weddings publicized (whether they like it or not). And if you’re a teleserye fanatic, maybe you’ve heard of the (fictional) Wedding of the Year—Richard and Maya’s, the characters from Be Careful with My Heart.

But aside from the technological aspects, has a lot changed in Filipino weddings?

Well, first, it’s interesting to look at pre-wedding rituals. In the early stages of the relationship ligawan is to be expected. Harana was very popular before (Is it just a thing for movies and TV now?) and the traditional way is for the guy to do all the courting. Love letter, perhaps, have been substituted with texts and e-mails (maybe even tweets) or messages on social networking sites.

During the old days, the groomto-be would also chop wood or fetch water for his fiancée’s family for paninilbihan.

Nowadays I’d be really surprised (and maybe impressed) to see someone do this.

However, we can say that it still exists but on a simpler scale—running errands or doing favors such as driving his future mother-in-law to the supermarket or doing minor house repairs. This can be a part of the pamamanhikan, when the couple’s respective families meet (usually the groom-to-be’s family comes over) and the guy asks his fiancée’s family for her hand in marriage. Plans are made regarding the wedding, details such as the guest list and budget. Now, some people can do this in restaurant’s instead of the bride-to-be’s house.

And then we have the ceremony itself—the big day. The bride and groom would profess their love for each other… after getting their chests pricked and having a little blood drawn from them, that’s how it was done during the pre-colonial times. The ceremony would actually last

Photo: Jason Espinosa for three days, officiated by the babaylan or priest. There are some similarities with modern day weddings such as the use of raw rice (which is cooked on the third day and eaten by the couple from the same plate; in modern weddings, it is thrown at the couple as they exit the church) and being bound by a cord.

At the present time, weddings are usually held at churches though some couples opt to do it somewhere else. For example, Gladys Reyes (known for her kontrabida roles) and Christopher Roxas had a garden wedding in 2004. Rica Peralejo and comedienne Tuesday Vargas tied the knot with their respective spouses by the beach. Nowadays, there may be more variety in terms of venues.

Last but certainly not the least, the attire. Brides used to wear their best dress in a festive color or in black a long time ago. Today, brides walk down the aisle 8

Photo: Francis Lim

Photo: Lourdes Mechilena looking lovely in their white gowns, custom or specially made for those who can afford it. (An exception would be Regine Velasquez who wore a red Monique Lhuiller gown on her wedding day.) For the grooms, barong Tagalog is the traditional Filipino formal wear. These days, some still wear that while others would prefer a black tux.

Some Filipino wedding customs are still kept today, though they have been slightly modified or updated to keep up with the times. The essence is still there, but couples are getting more creative in terms of details, for example in executing the proposal, the wedding theme or the venue. Plus, it’s getting easier with the increase in wedding planners, photographers, and videographers. Technology also plays a role, be it in the early stages of the relationship, pre-nuptial rituals, wedding ceremony, or post-wedding practices.

Weddings and proposals are also gaining more publicity online, some even going viral. On the plus side, with this particular period well documented it would be easier to get ideas and compare differences in the future.

Photo: Francis Lim

The traditional “Galahan.”

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Postmodernism, The Evolution of the Traditional

“I DO” in the Philippines

By: Kurt Zubieta

another.

She said yes!

Luckily, all the saints heard the groom’s prayers. Filipino traditions are as old as a caveman. All places in the Philippines have their own wedding traditions like sacrificing livestock in Ifugao (ethnic group in the Philippines) or galahan (traditional way of giving money pinned on

O

the newlyweds’ clothes while dancing).

These traditions made wedding ceremonies worthy, unique and memorable. The traditions, as expected, antagonized by our modern era which, inconveniently, kills these traditions and find a new way to make a perfect fairy tale dream come true, thus the efforts would clearly be killing the classics, but still develops a memorable event. These traditions still exist

Photo: Jason Espinosa

n the era which we contribute artistic works, bash the classics and make fun of how evolution of weddings (either traditional or modern) became an art form in the world of I do’s, we have created a superior art form of our new age distinctively. The sacrament of wedding is very essential for us to quote, “to have and to hold, from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer, for poorer, in sickness and in health, until death do us part.” In this viewpoint, Adam and Eve will tie the knot.

Photo: Francis Lim

The ring speaks for itself.

A marriage proposal is a word full of future and responsibility. The thoughts of being tangled to a person who has the capability of giving all kinds of emotions, thus or most preferably, a persona of capturing the reality of life, love and family. A tremendous amount of sincerity is equal to the vows that a husband and wife exchanges while being witnessed by their family, friends, relatives and the church. In the actual scenario, a wedding ring symbolizes the bond of two persons having mutual feelings with one

Photo: Francis Lim 10

Wedding as an art.

Photo: Francis Lim

Photo: Dwight Simon

Despite the fact that the modern world is now rising a new star, the wedding photographers will become the modern artists and the heroes of the wedding. Unlike the classical way of photography, the digital world creates a new life to distinguish a different method which can make the memories last a lifetime.

Photo: Jomari Dumalasa Wedding video coverage is an example of a perfect evolution. Revolutionized by cinematography, gadgets and other things that can give an HD experience. It may take a lot of hard work for the editor and videographers but still worthy after seeing the smiles of the people who watched it---like a real-live-action-packed film showing.

Photo: Jhoana Patularu

The photography is an evolution

and live throughout the country. Modern weddings promote digital age craftsmanship in producing the event as a way to exaggerate the emotions and endowed the meaning of a real story.

Supremacy of the modern age weddings.

In the future, expect that we would see holograms or automated flying cameras – time couldn’t tell what’s going to happen in this world regarding the evolution of technology. The process of which traditional wedding will be considered a history, a lecture to be read on history books. Today, traditional weddings are still at risk of disappearing.

Welcome to the world of longer range technology. Filipinos are very clever to adopt this kind of technological evolution despite that we are still seeking for more advancement. Slowly, but surely Filipino weddings will evolve into a new distinct and more advanced processes.

Some digital studios had developed high-end tactics to promote that this is not a stone age wedding but a modernized ceremony with the heart of classic Filipino traditions. I can say that Filipino photographers and videographers can make a world class documented wedding.

Traditional Filipino wedding is the origin of an advanced and modernized wedding in the Philippines.

Photo: Jason Espinosa

Photo: Francis Lim 11

of an old warrior, no matter how old a warrior is, they still can fight with grace.

Wedding coverage is a battleground between the subject and the photographers; you have to be accurate at any cost like a sniper. Every shot is equal to every blood of the photographer. It’s not just a picture; it’s a heart with soul. Every sweat counts.

The color, the subject, the camera and the photographers collide to capture the perfect moment and proper timing.

Photo: Jomari Dumalasa

Photo: Jason Espinosa

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The pictures are the fruit of all the events---it’s rich, pure and with entity.

The traditional Filipino weddings are an ounce of the new era. These traditional weddings will still live no matter how long. Traditions will be like human beings, they don’t disappear they will just evolve into something better.

A Legendary Encounter with By: Dwight Simon

MR. BOY KATINDIG

Mr. Romy Katindig (Philippine’s Jazz Legend/Pianist/Arranger) Photo: ROMY KATINDIG FACEBOOK PAGE

All in the Family

Being the son of Mr. Romy Katindig, it was quite inevitable not to inherit his Dad’s exceptional musical abilities. It was his father who influenced him to become the man who he is right now. Boy is a father of five children, aside from being a great multi-talented musician, he also wanted to prioritize his career as a parent. His kids are all in their late highschool and college age, which is a crucial age for teenagers wherein his wisdom, guidance and support is really needed.

A child who grows up in a home where music has its own place and value tend to be more musically inclined. Among Boy’s children, it is his eldest son who is the most serious in taking over their music business. Currently, the eldest son plays various music instruments, but still quite undecided which one he likes the most. It is apparent that superiority and perfection in music runs through the veins of the Katindig clan. We could not wait to see another Katindig tickle the ivories. Let us just wait and see what the next 30 years holds.

single person who left our country in their pursuit of ambition has made it with plans of providing a better life for their families.

There are million ways to do it, but for Mr. Boy Katindig, who had his own game plan and made a long, successful career playing jazz piano.

In his recent concert in Vancouver, Ms. Joey Albert has dubbed Boy as “The man with the magic fingers.”How did he obtain that? Being exposed to his Dad’s musical prowess and his uncles’ musical aptitude (Romy Katindig and the Hi-Chords) helped him how to be a flawless musician.

He had gone through a continuous learning process in honing his skills. His success did not happen overnight.

In the late 70’s, Boy eventually formed his own band called “Boy Katindig and Friends.” It was during the early 80’s when all his hard work and persistence was paid off. He secured a contract deal with A&W Records International. He also recorded several albums under the Horizon Label which was followed by numerous career opportunities such as consistent radio airplay, tour dates, sky-rocketed album sales and a

sold out show with the Japanese harpist, Tadao Hayashi at the “Big Dome” also known as Smart Araneta Coliseum, to name a few of his musical accomplishments.

With these under his belt, he decided to take his show to the other parts of Asia. The road which led him to a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia where he played at the lounge up until the hotel owner opened up the legendary Malaysian jazz club “The Manhattan” with Boy being one the key artists in its nightly lineup. He had spent two years in Malaysia before he decided to move his act to the birthplace of jazz: United States of America. In 1986, Boy found himself in California. He played many shows in Los Angeles as well as San Francisco for over the next three years. In 1990, he recorded his first U.S. album together with the jazz artists such as Gerald Albright, Brenda Eager and Delward Atkins. A huge Filipino population in the Island of Oahu (Hawaii) has also welcomed Boy with open arms.

Boy Katindig and friends played to packed houses and big crowds in Oahu’s sexiest nightspots. Boy then finally joined forces with Michael Paulo, a saxophonist whom

Chasing Dreams

It was never a secret that the Philippines’ biggest export is its people. Every

Photo: Dwight Simon 13

Image: BOYKATINDIG.COM he met while performing in Hawaii. Paulo signed Boy to his record label, “Noteworthy Records” and then produced Boy’s self-titled album in 1995.

Never to sit on his laurels, he took a drive north up the I-15 and went to Las Vegas. He has spent quite a bit of time out there and made his rounds just like everywhere else has. The strip has been generous to him and has headlined his own showrooms in The Bellagio, Palazzo, Mandalay Bay and Paris. In the last couple of years, Boy has relocated his family back

to Los Angeles, California.

Rich Musical Heritage

In 2012, Boy created the Boy Katindig Jazz Competition project to discover new jazz talent in the Philippines. This was an effort to trigger a renaissance of jazz in Manila. In this aspect, Boy has been dedicated in enticing people especially the youth to develop and enhance their musical talents by giving them the opportunity and inspiration through this competition. In its recent 2014

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competition, the Swingster Syndicate bagged the top prize. Part of the privilege of winning this, they represented the Philippines in the World Youth Jazz Festival held in Putrajaya, Malaysia last May 2-4 this year.

In closing, I think we can all agree that no matter how long and tedious the road might be, it is quite necessary to have a well-defined plan and direction. Every Filipino living abroad has this dream of making it big and yet MR. BOY KATINDIG did this brilliantly with verve, style and an uncanny knack.

A Life with

M

y daughter, Marla, was born on June 2004 and she was such a sweet and adorable baby. Her newborn screening test all came back normal. However at the age of three, I noticed some odd changes, like she started walking on her toes, her speech started to fade away gradually and she became increasingly dependent in wearing diapers instead of being potty-trained. She has contracted a brain infection and was later on diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder at the age of four.

When I have learned about her condition, it made me cry day and night. I could not even remember how long I have been crying until I got tired. I was having a hard time accepting the situation and facing the reality. The situation was so excruciatingly painful to bear.

In the mid of 2006, I decided to give up my job, to take care of Marla and my other children as a full-time Mom. Each day is a continuous learning process. Ini-

MARLA By: Lourdes Mechilena

tially, it was very difficult because she would constantly climb on top of everything; she went around the house and made a mess of things.

Worst was, whenever she would do her ‘business’ she would play with it and smear it on the carpet or anything that she would come close to. Looking back, I used to cry every time I needed to clean her mess or steam vacuum the carpet. I do not even know how much money I spent for Clorox wipes and sanitizers to keep the area disinfected and clean. I also could not remember how many times I would cry out to God asking, why Marla? Marla is such a beautiful child and I envisioned her accomplishing greater things just like the rest of us. Who are we to question God’s plan? As years passed by, I began to accept our fate and God has set me free from its sorrow and anguish. I just lifted everything to God and let Him do His vast and greater plan for Marla and the rest of us. I know there is a higher purpose for Marla’s condition and it will all be revealed

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and manifested in His perfect and appointed time.

I steadily set up a routine for Marla, I found out that Marla likes having early bath because this soothes and calms her. She likes having cereals for breakfast, bananas for snacks or crackers

and cheese. She also likes to wear pure cotton clothing, and she feels comfortable with her cotton bed sheets and blankets. She enjoys cool weather. These are just some of the several things she likes in her daily routine. I am feeling more confident and lighter as days passed by. Marla is behaving better now and can sit over 10 minutes with her brother while watching television. I can see more improvements as she started taking her special education program since she was four. Since Marla is not aware of the danger surrounding her, she needed help to be trained with her behaviour interventionist, Marivel Frausto.

God does answer prayers through Marivel, who works with Marla full time. She taught Marla so many things that could help her achieve her goals. Marla still attends her Special Education program wherein they provide speech therapy, behavioural therapy and special tools to help mentally challenged children like her to learn and be successful in society. It is just so amazing when God gives us so many blessings to help us carry on.

Marla, Mia as we would often call her, is now 9 years old.

She is five foot and five inches tall and weighs about 135 pounds, which surprised her Pediatrician and nurses on her recent check-up of how much she has grown.

Marla has taught me to become an exceptional person and I can proudly say that I like myself better now because of her. Being her mom is just an amazing experience. I am realizing that life is not all about convenience, it is about discovering and understanding and accepting what life has to offer and to make the most out of it. It’s also about learning to be in her world, enjoying what she enjoys the most, and understanding how she shows her love in her own unique way.

God has definitely given me a gift in Marla.

Marla and Marivel, her behaviour interventionist.

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By: Jinkee Mercurio

Survival job, being the ultimate resort, played a pivotal role in new immigrants’ lives. As a result, many of them ended up to be on the low income bracket within the society on their first few years. Those conditions can intensify their frustration. Although this may vary, depending on where you are, and the social networks that you have.

Photo: Dreamstime.com

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ew immigrants in Canada are encountering a plethora of hardships right from the start when they arrived in the city of their resettlement. We Filipinos, are not spared from that. Many of us had a tinge of regrets after we realized the kind of life that we are about to lead. However, the good quality of being a Filipino is that we always strive hard to survive. We always settle, and we manage to smile through it all.

Statistics Canada has identified the greatest challenges that the new newcomers have to endure after landing in Canada. I just collected some of the few among the fourteen difficulties that best suit the Filipinos. I am convinced that many of us can relate to the following:

LEARNING NEW LANGUAGE. I a Canadian work experience. The article entitled “Canadian Experience,” Employment Challenges, and Skilled Immigrants, written by Sakamoto, Chin and Young say, “that it’s not really about the hard skills that a Canadian employer is looking for instead they are searching for all the soft skills that usually a skilled immigrant is lacking. Soft skills are skills that are culturally embedded such as communication skills, working with others (teamwork), and conflict resolution. Those skills are being manifested during the interviews and other interactions. In fact, discerning how and when to display cultural and/or linguistic difference may also be part of demonstrating competencies in soft skills.”

FINDING AN ADEQUATE JOB. Getting a job in Canada is one of the biggest challenges that a new immigrant have to endure. Canadian employers during a job interview will usually ask for a Canadian education followed by the questions whether the job applicant have

think this is not really a big issue as far as a Filipino is concern because most of us can at least fairly speak the English language.

This problem is only relevant to a Filipino person when he tries to get his international credential recognized in Canada.

The professional regulating body or a local school in Canada will usually demand a proof of language proficiency in English as a requirement for application for credential evaluation. The experienced immigrant’s ability and capability to listen, read, write and speak using the English language has to be examined. Moreover, for those who decided to dwell in a French-speaking area in Canada, they need to study French and be able to demonstrate that they are competent enough to converse in the said language. I assume it is tougher to gain mastery in the French language compared to English language.

GETTING USED TO THE WEATHER. Being away from the

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sultry climate of the Philippines, some people find it arduous to adjust to the extreme cold weather of Canada. According to WebMD, “the change in weather can cause health problems to other

people. Cold weather can likewise trigger asthma attacks. In addition, people are susceptible to migraines when there’s a sharp increase in humidity and a sudden drop in temperature. Furthermore, joint pain is rampant in a chilly, damp weather especially to elderly people.” The weather condition is one of the reasons why some of our elderly population has difficulty in staying in Canada. Aside from that, the ABC News has also reported, “Hypothermia and frostbite among the common hazards associated with severe cold, but while cold weather can cause discomfort that can be easily remedied with a trip to the pharmacy, it can also trigger previously undiagnosed deadly diseases and sometimes serious medical problems. Some people may have experienced tingling pain and numbness when you’ve been outside in the cold for any length of time, but 10 percent of people -- primarily women -get that feeling from exposure to even the slightest cold. Those people suffer from Raynaud’s syndrome, and any exposure to the cold -- even from taking food from the freezer of a grocery store or briefly going out in the cold -- can trigger spasms in the blood vessels in your fingers, toes, ears and the tip of your nose. Many people also get nosebleeds in the winter. Nosebleeds commonly occur in the winter because the nasal passages get dried out and crack -- either from the low humidity and cold air outside or from the dry heated rooms indoors.”

Frozen Niagara Falls Photo: Karen De Los Santos

MISSING SUPPORT FROM HOMELAND. As saying goes, there’s

no place like home. It is totally stressful to go out from our comfort zones, that’s for sure. Back home, our family and even the whole clan was with us and we get all the needed support in order for us to live adequately. They were all present 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. In the Philippines, most of us were even used to have our own helpers. I can say approximately all of us were not accustomed to the kind of lifestyle in Canada wherein we have to do everything all by ourselves not to men-

RECOGNITION OF CREDENTIALS EXPERIENCE. It is somehow

Photo: Lea Nambatac-Cawit tion from the simple household chores to complicated ones. But it’s not all about our comfort, it’s also because we just simply love our families, and we want to be with them all the time. Homesickness and nostalgia are real, people might not be talking about it more often, but it doesn’t indicate that it is unreal and no longer existing.

disappointing and frustrating to discover that most of our international credentials are not acknowledged here. Job Bank Canada agreed that foreign credential recognition is one of the main difficulties faced by newcomers to Canada. According to them, the reason why some credentials earned outside of Canada may not be recognized as equivalent to Canadian credentials is often because of contextual differences between countries, particularly in the regulated professions where wellness and safety matters the most. Sadly, getting professional and educational credentials recognized in Canada can take time, effort and money. The international credentials should be assessed by the credential assessment agencies, educational institutions, and regulatory bodies. These regulating bodies might require you to undergo

FINANCIAL CONSTRAINTS.

Some of the new immigrants usually found themselves almost at the verge of poverty due to the difficulty of finding a job.

They need to be a wise spender especially when the source of their income is limited or actually absent. Now I have a better understanding why there should be a financial requirement when applying for a permanent residency. It is really a must to bring enough money for us to spend while we are trying to find a job in order to sustain at least the basic needs. This problem is just like a domino effect, and it is inter-related among the other barriers.

On the other hand, the Canadian government is giving a tax-free monthly payment for the families who have kids to help them with the cost of raising children until they reach the age of 18. In some way, it is helpful, but unfortunately, doesn’t apply to all. Luckily for others, who were not quite picky when it comes to job hunting, they were able to withstand their first critical years in Canada and managed to meld and become a part of the Canadian wok force.

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Photo: Dreamstime.com further training and education but do not worry, it is all worthwhile.

After rounding up all the obstacles that a Filipino immigrant have to face, I assure you that the hardship is only in the beginning. I have been there, so I know how it feels like. Resisting the flow at the moment is very futile as well as running away. The proverbial Filipino saying “Pag may tiyaga, may nilaga” will be tried and tested here in Canada. Anyway, why don’t we just just consider this as a character-building adventure? After all, we have to take this challenge at the point of no return. We have to handle all of these circumstances with our heads held up high. We only need to do what is needed to be done. Just to let you know, the people who usually make it here in Canada are those humble, patient, determined and knows how to plan ahead. Just be patient and be optimistic.By the way, are you one of them?

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he Philippine Islands have had a long history of being involved in a war. It is not because Filipinos like being on it, but because of the very location of our country in the South Pacific.

Its proximity to Japan and China puts us right in the middle of international shipping lanes. Throughout the history of the world, trade has brought prosperity to a privileged few. Some of this prosperity also brought out the worst in people. Slavery and occupation have reared its ugly head, and the Philippines was not spared from it even during the Spanish rule.

At the end of the 19th century, people witnessed how the Americans rose to power and eventually attacked Spain’s pacific colonies. American occupation led to involvement in the Philippine Revolution in 1896. The Filipino people were freed and released from the Spanish rule only to find themselves under the control of the Americans. The Battle of Manila in February 1899 saw conflict broke out between the Filipino and American forces, beginning the Philippine – American War. Guerilla groups, both in major cities and remote areas continued to battle the Americans. The invasion continued and the Americans promised an eventual freedom. There was a negotiation to resolve conflict by giving us back our complete freedom, but that was interrupted and delayed because of the World War II. When the Empire of Japan declared war on the United States, the Philippines got caught up in the middle due to the American control over our country as well as the important military bases and facilities they have built there. During that time, the Filipinos and Americans have put aside their differences and fought side by side against the Japanese. Both countries were defeated by the Japanese in

Photo: Dreamstime.com 1942, but guerilla resistance occurred throughout the war.

Even though the U.S. was true to its word and granted us our independence, the war still left us a 19

very grim and relentless reminders of the price of our liberty and democracy: Pearl Harbor, Hiroshima and Bataan. There was a massive bloodshed during that war, and many people lost their lives. When the war was com-

Manila American Cemetery & Memorial, The Fort Taguig

pletely over, huge numbers of Filipinos mostly veterans of war, migrated to North America to find a greener pasture.

Currently, we are all enjoying the product of the hard work and sacrifices of our Guerilla fighters which brought about our freedom and independence. We should never forget and disregard the heroes, including the tales of their bravery and valor.

Furthermore, we should not forget who we are or where we came from.

Our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal once said, “Ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan� (He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will never get to his destination).

Photo: Dreamstime.com

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Itinaas ang bandila bilang hudyat ng tagumpay Masayang iwinawagayway sa nabigong kaaway Malayang natamo ang kalayaan na tanging gabay Tungo sa kasarinlan ng bayang mayro’ng bagong buhay.

Ano nga ba ang kahulugan ng kalayaan sa ngayon?

Naging malaya ba tayo sa mapang-aping mga kampon?

Sa mababagsik na kastila, Amerikano’t Hapon Ang Kalayaan ba natin ay may ginhawang naitulong?

Ang kalayaan sa panahong ito ay kontrobersiyal Mga usapin ng kurakot sa Kongreso ay ilegal Maging sa pamahalaan walang bago at malinaw Kalayaa’y gamit sa kanilang sariling pananaw.

Disiplina ang kailangan ng ating kalayaan Bayan ay mabubuwag walang saysay sa kinalaunan Ang unyon ng republika ay tunay na kasaysayan Dito nakatali ang matatag na pamahalaan.

Kalayaan sa isip ng matatalinong may budhi Trabahong pangkabuhayan itatag sa ating lahi Isipin ang bukas sa mga batang walang mang-aapi Ginto ang luningning sa mga palad ng mga nagwagi.

Ang kalayaan ba’y may antas sa lipunan na hambing?

Sa taong may puna sa baya’t pamahalaan natin Hindi naman paninira kung atin ay susuriin Pahapyaw na pasaring lang para lahat ay magising.

Malaya na nga tayo, lahat malayang naglalayag Sa iba’t ibang pulo upang makaalpas sa hirap Bayang sinilangan, mayaman,maganda at mabulas ‘Alang pangakong trabaho kaya napilitang lumipad.

Kalayaan ng bansa ba’y kasarinlan’g mayayaman?

Monopoliya ng mga may perang halos dayuhan Kung sana gaya ng ibang bansang mahalaga si Ka Juan Kabayan muna ang una sa binipisyo ng kaban.

Kung sana ay may kalayaan tayong pagpapatupad Sa ating magsasaka tulong sa kanila’y igawad Maraming lupaing tiwangwang at hindi napipitak Malayang matatamnan, walang pagkaing inaangkat.

Kung ang kalayaan sa iba natin ay ihahambing Malayong naiiba sa pananaw ang bansa natin Malaya nga tayo pero delikado’t problema din May mga maka-kaliwang nag-aalpas na may layunin.

Kalayaan , kalayaan.. O’ tunay na kalayaan!

Tunay na katahimikan ang sa ati’y nakalaan Mapayapang kaisipan..progreso ng ating bayan Mabuhay, mabuhay ang araw ng ating kasarinlan!

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FILIPINO Events Celebrates Bataan Day

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he sacrifices made by our Filipino Veterans both still living and those who passed away were honored and remembered on a fine and lovely Sunday afternoon of April 13, 2014, at the Vancouver Alpen Club. The PHILVETS Memorial and Cultural Society of British Columbia took the time and effort to celebrate the “Bataan Day” or “Day of Valor.” It was a day of fun and enjoyment, yet still focusing on the heroic deeds of the Filipino and Americans soldiers who suffered in the Bataan Death March in 1942.

It was an event to remember filled with old time memories and amazing people. There was no shortage of talent and creativity on that day. They showcased great singers and dancers all throughout the celebration, exhibiting the Filipino’s craft and artistry.

On the same occasion, they also held the induction of the new officers of PHILVETS Memorial and Cultural Society of British Columbia as well as the coronation of the new PHILVETS Queen.

Words & Photos by: Dwight Simon

MR. FERNANDO SALANGA, PHILVETS PRESIDENT

NEW PHILVETS QUEEN, MS. VIRGINIA ARCHIE

PHILVETS MODEL

MS. MIMI REGINALDO, MASTER OF CEREMONIES

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This organization strives in preserving our own history and culture.

Its main objective is to pass on the legacy (inspiring hope and saving lives) of our brave and honorable soldiers to the next generation. The PHILVETS hopes to bridge the gap between the four generations such as Veterans, Baby B oomers, Generation X, and Generation Y.

For the people being born and raised in Canada, sometimes it can be hard to appreciate and understand what our forefathers fought for. Luckily, PHILVETS is here to remind us of their sacrifices in the past so that we can always look forward to a brighter future.

Boy Katindig Live in Vancouver

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he Jazz Legend Mr. Boy Katindig has made his rounds up north to Vancouver, BC last April 12th of this year. He had a concert here at the Edgewater Casino with none other than, Ms. Joey Albert, laying down her vocals.

Joey has been a Vancouver area resident since the early 2000’s and it was only natural to have her sing a couple

Mr. Boy Katindig

Audrey Rose

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Words & Photos by: Dwight Simon

Ms. Joey Albert

melodies while Boy tickled the ivories.

The concert was really amazing. Boy and his band started off playing the Katindig brand of fusion jazz right after the opening act of Audrey Rose Band. Soon after that, Boy’s band started to slowly set the stage for Joey’s grand entrance. Not to give it away all at once, the band played some of Boy’s early hits, with Boy himself almost lazily leading the band with each chord progression.

The crowd seemed to be relaxed and bobbing their heads to the rhythm.

When the band started to play more upbeat songs, the horn section came into a full swing. The crowd, anxiously awaiting for the entrance of Ms. Albert, started to become restless. An excited eagerness that was defined by every chord that Boy played.

This went on, slowly whipping the crowd into a fever pitch anticipation and when Boy felt that the crowd was ready, he welcomed Joey to

come out of the stage. The crowd erupted into cheers of pandemonium when Joey started to sing. Ballads, covers and original tunes from both artists were performed. They did so for the next hour without missing a beat. It looked like the band had been playing together for years. It was later revealed by the promoter of the show that the band which consists of lead guitar (Joe Cruz), bass (Miles Hill), percussions (Chico Teves Zambrano), saxophone (Dave Say), and drums (Randall Stoll) had only met two days prior to the show. With the likes of Boy Katindig and Joey Albert, who could expect anything less?

So what is next on the horizon for Boy Katindig? He will continue to tour in North America and back home to the Philippines. His next date back here in Vancouver might be in December 2014, so mark your calendars for yet another spectacular array of great music and talent.

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Zumba:

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tep 1, Step 2, Step 3! Move your feet to the left and swing that hips to the right! Dance your heart out as if nobody is watching.

Aerobics numbers and paces are out, Zumba Fitness craze is definitely in.

“Ditch the workout, join the party” is the famous slogan which hit the entire fitness world--- people of all ages, shapes, sizes and background. Exercise in total form of Latin Dance that was proven to burn up to 500 to 1000 calories per session.

Step Up…Step into life By: Ritchel Repil

and a good healthy body is the result.

Filipinos back home adored attending Zumba classes in private gyms or spas.

Apparently not all Filipinos have the capability to spend money and time to this hit dance workout. It can be quite expensive and difficult to afford by the middle class community. This the reason why Zumba, is highly favored fitness craze by the people in the “Alta Sociedad” or of the elite society. Fortunately, now you have the option to record it in a CD or DVD then you can do your own workout ses-

They dance like Zumba warriors to forget problems just for a while and to fight their homesickness and nostalgia. Some considered it as a way of bonding with friends and family or simply giving time to oneself.

Dance is a form of conversation between the body and the mind. It is a hidden language of the soul and expression of unknown words. In every step and every hips sway, in every beat of the sound and every single moment of dance session is like a running hand clock that letting the time pass without even noticing it. Zumba or any form of dance is a bridge of communication with our own life. It helps us in forming our future by making us more healthy and active. It may be a simple way of dancing to some, but it could also mean the best time a person could ever have. Being fit means being happy while dancing. Being happy means keeping our body and mind healthy so that we can still foresee a brighter future with our loved ones.

Filipinos in British Columbia are now becoming to be more conscious and vigilant about their health status than ever before. Since Zumba PHOTOS: ERBY TALAN class is readily accessible Researchers believed that Zumba is a fun, safe and effective way of losing weight. It does not judge your talent nor your ability to dance. It doesn’t even matter how young or old you are.

Everybody can just have their own steps in a non-intimidating atmosphere of Zumba.

Zumba is just like any other kinds of “dance art.” It tends to hook people from the concept of losing weight while having fun. Fun is the root word

sion at home. Videos of dance sessions are also available in social media and can be used as a guide for healthy exercise without spending a single amount of money. Just grab your workout shoes and do not try to resist and experience the pleasure of dancing Zumba.

Since millions of Filipinos who are out of the homeland, they seek Zumba as a way of entertaining themselves.

This is one great way to gain friends and having an exhilarating time with them.

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and very affordable, they don’t waste their time but rush in immediately to the nearest gym offering Zumba sessions whenever they could have the opportunity to do so. “Health is wealth” that is why we should feel the necessity of prioritizing it. It is not really all about the latest trend or what is currently in, but it is all about attaining your best possible health and well-being. Keeping in mind though, that balance is the key for everything. So have the best time of your life dancing the Zumba way!

FYI

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he College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia (CRNBC) posted a new announcement on their website early this year regarding the initiation of National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). NNAS is designed to coordinate a consistent national program for internationally educated nurses (IENs) who are seeking registration in Canadian jurisdictions. These include Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) in Ontario, Registered Nurses (RNs), Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs).

According to (NNAS), starting August 12, 2014, international nurses who aspire to work as Registered Nurses in Canada should use the new modernized and contoured application process. All their documents and credentials must be submitted to and verified by the NNAS, before completing the application process with the region where they wish to work.

Once all the documents are received,

FOR INTERNATIONAL NURSES: NATIONAL NURSING ASSESSMENT SERVICE AND SEC ASSESSMENT By: Jinkee Mercurio and an evaluation of foreign credential is complete, applicants will be advised by the NNAS. Afterwards, they may proceed with submitting their application to the governing organization of their preferred province, to complete the assessment for eligibility as a nurse.

If applicants want to apply as an RN in British Columbia, they would then apply to CRNBC to complete the assessment of their eligibility. For most applicants, this includes a competence-based assessment, also known as Substantially Equivalent Competence (SEC) Assessment.

BENEFITS FOR INTERNATIONALLY-EDUCATED NURSES

SUBSTANTIALLY EQUIVALENT COMPETENCE (SEC) ASSESSMENT

One time online process to start the application process to any province in Canada (except Quebec). > Ability to complete application and to pay for the initial assessment online > One convenient location to send documents > A centralized credential assessment process > Access to 1-800 customer care telephone number with service in English and French > Ability to track the status of the application online through NNAS website

PHOTO: OLIVIA OREDINA 26

This is a part of the application process wherein an international nurse will be examined with regards to his contemporary nursing knowledge, skills and abilities. This is to measure the nurse’s judgment, values, attitudes, and overall performance based on the nursing standard of practice. There are two types of assessment; it can be General SEC Assessment or Complete SEC Assessment. In General SEC, it is a two-day assessment which comprises the knowledge and practice of the Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) about medical-surgical nursing, community health nursing and focus situations. On the other hand, Complete SEC is a more complex assessment which would usually take four-and-a-half days to complete. It will measure the IEN’s knowledge about medical-surgical-community nursing, maternal-newborn health, child health and mental health nursing. IEN Assessment Service of B.C. from Kwantlen Polytechnic University will be contacting you to set up an appointment for the SEC Assessment. You need to provide a stipulated time which will be suitable for you and you will need yo provide them your B.C. File number. Keeping in mind that you have to be certain on the date that you would be providing them because they do discourage in rescheduling it because it could affect the result of the assessment, particularly in the area of Accountability and Responsibility. Once the date has been set, you will be receiving a confirmation about all the details such as time, place and date as well as the list of resources

related to it. So it will depend on what type of assessment you are about to undertake for it is now in the jurisdiction of the CRNBC assessor. Make sure you will be prepared for the assessment because you will only have to do this once. Reports could take 3-5 weeks to complete before sending it to CRNBC.

PHOTO: COURTESY OF SLSU-COAM BATCH 2004

The result of the assessment will ally Educated Re-entry Program. These help the CRNBC to determine if you have programs are all available at Kwantlen met the entry-level nursing competencies Polytechnic University. Furthermore, in British Columbia or you still need some invitational program (distant education) supplemental education before you can be for internationally educated nurses is also granted your nursing registration. Suppleavailable at Thompson Rivers University. mental education can be either short online courses or Graduate Nurse Internation-

ABSOLUTELY FILIPINO MAGAZINE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING FOR THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO THIS PROJECT: MS. BILLIE SEMAK MS. GINA GELLA MR. BOY KATINDIG MS. JOEY ALBERT MR. DECK LACSAMANA MS. OLIVIA OREDINA MR. DWIGHT SIMON MR. ROY MIJARES MR. VICENTE VALDEZ JR. MS. RITCHEL REPIL KURT ZUBIETA MR. TONY MANGILIMAN ANGELINE BRIDAL SHOP MS. BROOKE FEDORCHUK MS. ALAINE BOMBASE MR. RYAN VIJANDRE MR. HECTOR GABATIN JR. MR. & MRS. KENNETH RAMOS MR. & MRS. EDMUND TALAN MR. & MRS. NIÑO VILLAMENTE MS. KYLIE ANN JOSE MS. ANNE MARIE TINKLEY MS. ALESSANDRA MERCURIO MS. NINA VILLAMENTE

MS. NIÑA ANGELA CABASCO MR. NIEL VILLAMENTE MR. JEREMIAH TALAN MS. ERBY TALAN MS. LEA NAMBATAC-CAWIT MR. CHUCK MAGNUS MS. SHEREE CUSTODIO SLSU-COAM BATCH 2004 MS. CIARA YAP AND MR. JOHNSON CHUNG MS. ELOISA SANCHEZ-CLOMA,TRIPLE E TRADING MR. JOMARI DUMALASA, FLIP VISION PRODUCTIONS MR. FRANCIS LIM, FRANCIS’ PORTRAITS MR. JASON ESPINOSA MS. YOLANDA CHU, NATIONAL BANK OF CANADA MS. ANNALIZA VILLAMIN, RED BUCKETS INC. MS. NARCISA VIESCA VINLUAN, STYLE CUTS NARCY MS. MIMI REGINALDO MR. FERNANDO SALANGA, PHILVETS PRESIDENT PHILVETS MEMORIAL AND CULTURAL SOCIETY OF BRITISH COLUMBIA MS. KAREN TINAMISAN-DE LOS SANTOS MS. SHELLY PROCTER

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Model: Kylie Ann Jose Dress: Angeline Bridal Boutique Make-up: Brooke Fedorchuk Photography: Jomari Dumalasa 28