Bagong Bayani Magazine

MICA (P) 199/01/2011

Vol. 1, No. 3 Free Copy

CONGRESS WHISPERS: INFORM OFWs OF ALL GOVERNMENT BENEFITS AND ASSISTANCE

FR. ANGEL LUCIANO, CICM

FILIPINO MISSIONARY AND MASTER KEEPER OF CHRISTIAN FAITH IN SINGAPORE

GOING ABROAD? OMG!!!

HE IS COMING BACK AGAIN GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL WAR WAGED BY A SMALL VOICE

Munting Pangarap Para Ka Baby AJ

KULTURANG PINOY: LUTONG BAHAY

USAPANG LEGAL: PEOPLE EMPOWERMENT IN ENVIRONMENTAL LAW

OFF TO SWITZERLAND VIA SINGAPORE (REALLY?) - CONCLUSION

HEALTHY SOUL, WEALTHY MIND IN HOLY WEEK

SNAPSHOTS: SINAKULO

We make opportunities.

We create positive results.

We build better futures.

Business Development Job Creation Financial Planning Student Services Legal Assistance Documentation Support

304 Orchard Road, #04-65 Lucky Plaza, Singapore 238863 Mobile Number: +65 9388 6515 | Telefax: +65 6235 8153 Email: info@salomonandassociates.com

www.salomonandassociates.com

Publisher’s Note

K

eep the faith. The incident that transpired before our very eyes and shocked the world, in the past weeks reminded us that we should never take for granted what we have. Man made infrastructures and delegated powers have been challenged on grounds of suffocation and dissatisfaction.

The gruesome aftermath of a great catastrophic episode in the “Land of the Rising Sun” left us in awe and speechless. Here is a superpower crumbling from its pedestal and pleading for attention and reaching out to the world- a sight to behold, simply heartbreaking. Amid these unfortunate events, one thought came to my mind and this is the importance of protecting our environment and preparing for what might happen in the future.

And what about the ongoing wars among nations and recently the civil and political unrest in the Middle East and Africa? It will continue as opposing personal interests are being highlighted to achieve dominance in the face of an economically troubled world. Survival of the fittest… I have observed that everyone is willing to be the next martyr and the next hero, for whatever reason and for whatever its worth.

Greed, jealousy, hate, religion, survival - these are just some of the causes of war.

As we see the world today, perhaps, we should go back to the basics. Living by faith, hope, and love will reinvigorate our belief, that the impact of temporary problems and sufferings that we see around us will soon fade away and will be replaced by a sense of optimism and courage to face the future with nothing but a joyful and

renewed heart. We just have to believe.

As we commemorate the celebration of the Holy Week, let us reflect on the life of the Greatest Man who has ever lived. His death and resurrection should inspire us to reach our respective goals in life and use it to guide us in our crusade to endure the apocalypse of our time.

Then, as I write this note, I have been reminded of Paul’s Second Letter to the Corinthians as it was also written during difficult times and he also talked about Asia. A coincidence, I must say; And I would like to quote Chapter 4, Verse 8-9 that says, “We are often troubled, but never in despair; there are many enemies, but we are never without a friend; and though badly hurt at times, we are not destroyed”. Timely and gentle reminder for all of us, for it is in our weakness that we find our strength. As Filipinos, we have proven this, time and time again.

In closing, let me borrow the words of Adlai Stevenson which was used in his eulogy for his good friend Eleonor Roosevelt, a great woman and who is one of my influences, and I quote, “She would rather light candles than curse the darkness, and her glow has warmed the world”.

Let us all then light one single candle than curse the darkness. We should keep our faith.

To the peoples of Japan, Libya, Yemen, Ivory Coast, Syria, Afghanistan and those who are similarly situated, God bless you all, God bless the Philippines and Mabuhay po tayong lahat!

contents

10

Congress Whispers: Inform OFWs of All Government Benefits and Assistance

20

Global Environmental War Waged by a Small Voice

Fr. Angel Luciano on the cover Photography by Bhong E. Odal

24

Cover Story

46

Snapshots

28

Kulturang Pinoy: Lutong Bahay

38

Healthy Soul, Healthy Mind in Holy Week

4 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

contents

14

Valedictory Address

30

The Wonderful Thing Called Love

40

Solar Plants & Living Plants: Keeping the Sadness Away

EDITORIAL BOARD Publisher MARYJANE SALOMON (Singapore) Editorial Consultants DEtCh P. NONAN-MERCADO (Singapore) SANkiE SiMbuLAN (Philippines) tALA MARALit (Philippines) OMAR SiERvO (uk) Associate Editor DR. MARiLYN D. SuRiO (Philippines) Columnists AttY. hAzEL RiguERA (Philippines) tERESA MANgADA SARMiENtO (thailand) CRiStY viCENtiNA (Singapore) PAMSY tiOSECO (Philippines) DR. FLORO CALub, JR. (Singapore) Contributors PAMELA WiLDhEARt PiLAPiL (Singapore) EvANgELiNE kAtigbAk (Singapore) PROF CESAR tORRES (uS) DR. MARigLO viCENtE CAMERO (Philippines) ARCh. kRiStiNA PEREz (Singapore) DiANA JEANE MENDiOLA (Singapore) DARCY LAgRiMAS DE ASiS (Philippines) kAREN bALOMA-buNAL (uS) Copy Writer kENt AvEStRuz Art Director LANCE SiSON of Ars Nova Designs (Singapore) Creative Consultant CESA FRAMiL (Singapore) Circulation Managers ELviRA CiNCO (Singapore) ANDEE bARCO (Singapore) Photographers PiNOYgRAPhERS (Singapore) Circulation: 10,000 copies

42

UAP(S) - Celebrating a Moment of Gratitude for a Year of Blessings

Advertising Enquiries: Email: info@iambagongbayani.com | info@salomonandassociates.com Mobile: +65 9388 6515 | Office: +65 6235 8153 Published monthly by Salomon Publishing Singapore Pte Ltd. 304 Orchard Road, #04-65 Lucky Plaza, Singapore 238863. the Publisher uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine but is not liable for any mistake, misprint, omission or typographical error. the Publisher prints the advertisement provided by the advertisers but gives no warranty and makes no representations as to the truth, accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement. the Publisher accepts no liability for any loss that may be suffered by any person who relies either whole or in part upon any description, photograph or statement contained therein. the Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. No part of this publication may be copied either in whole or in part without prior permission from the Publisher.

MiCA (P) 199/01/2011 Printing by: gL PRiNtiNg SDN bhD

6 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

letters from the readers

A

S

Alumni Association Singapore (UP-AAS). “Wow!” I blurted out the

nagtatrabaho dito sa Singapore. Gusto ko po ang mga articles

moment I saw the magazine. And after reading its contents, I was

lalong lalo na ang “Munting Pangarap” column ninyo. Nakakaiyak.

convinced that it was a product of hard-work, commitment, and

Sana malathala ninyo po ang sulat ko din po. Maraming salamat

passion for excellence. I liked the articles, specifically the “Extreme

po!

uperb. Impressive. World-Class. These are words that best describe the BAGONG BAYANI Magazine. I read about its existence from a message sent to the yahoogroup of UP-

ng BAGONG BAYANI magazine ang nagbibigay ng inspirasyon sa katulad namin na mga Overseas Filipino Workers , lalong lalo na kami na mga sa bahay

Close-Up: Rico Hizon” written by Pamela Wildheart-Pilapil and Gloria Sevilla, Kasambay

“Traits of Life Victors” by Detch Nonan-Mercado. Both articles were informative and inspiring. Thank you MJ. More power to you and your staff.

Lester Ordan, Seminar/Training Coordinator

W

hen I first got hold of the BAGONG BAYANI magazine which at that time was their second issue, I was impressed by its quality and wondered if it

was really being distributed for free. And true enough, it is really for

V

ery good quality and interesting stories. May class at

FREE! Here is a magazine that serves as a voice for millions of OFWs

matibay na magazine. I am very happy na mayroon na

worldwide and brings pride to the modern-day Bayani - from our

po tayong ganitong magazine na mababasa dito po sa

kababayans working as kasambahays to those holding executive

Singapore. At last, we can read good and interesting ideas from the

role in the fields of engineering, banking, food and beverage,

Philippines and the world at LIBRE pa! Thank you, congratulations

hospitality, medical, or media. I would like to see this magazine

and more power to BAGONG BAYANI Staff!

grow and continue to inspire our kababayans to aim higher in whatever endeavor they are into right now. Congratulations to the

Royal Dhalen Belmis, Kasambahay of 13 years

people behind Bagong Bayani and I look forward to helping in our common goal to achieve greater things for our countrymen.

Engr. Ryan Michael Gelig, Technopreneur

I

would like to thank Ms. MJ the creator and publisher of bagong bayani magazine for such an idea..the magazine is indeed a very useful way of giving us information, every

story in this magazine inspire us.. So I can say that bagong bayani magazine is a story of every FILIPINO. More power po sa mga taong nasa likod ng tagumpay ng BAGONG BAYANI magazine..Keep up the good work!!!

N

akakatuwa po at ang BAGONG BAYANI magazine ay gumagawa ng mga paraan na maipaabot sa kinauukulan at lalong lalo na kay President Noy ang

mga issues na gustong maipaabot ng ating mga kababayan dito sa Singapore. Alam ko po na marami pa ang nagagalak na binanggit

Nancy Leonardo, Supervisor

ni MJ ang tungkol sa INVITATION LETTER sa Presidente. Sana po ay maging maayos na ang mga nakakalitong patakaran parte dito para wala ng masasayang na mga pamasahe, panahon at pagod.

M

abuhay! I have read your magazine (vol.1,

We need more people like her na marunong tumulong sa kapwa Pinoy!!!

no.2) and found it very informative and nicely done Great magazine for the OFWs here in

Singapore. Congratulations to BAGONG BAYANI magazine!!!

Jade Lactao, Communications & Marketing Manager

8 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

Beth, Expat's wife

announcement azine is Bagong Bayani mag ING and FREE. IR P S IN , L IA T N A T SUBS OR WEBSITE F G IN K OO L E R A E W DESIGNERS FOR DEVELOPERS AND i.com www.iambagongbayan WRITERS AND OR F G IN K OO L E R A WE CONTRIBUTORS. DVERTISERS A OR F G IN K OO L E WE AR AND SPONSORS. OR YOU. WE ARE LOOKING F ll us: Please write and ca ngbayani.com go ba m ia @ fo in l: ai Em 15 Mobile: +65 9388 65 53 Office: +65 6235 81 y Plaza, 304 Address: 04-65 Luck pore Orchard Road, Singa

article entitled, Editor’s Note: The Tolsky Abalon in “TIS IS LOVE” by s inadvertently our March Issue wa aphical error. printed with typogr ‘TIS LOVE. Our It should read as her for such an sincere apologies to oversight.

January 2011 Bagong Bayani 9

congress whispers

Inform OFWs of All Government Benefits and Assistance

By Pamsy Tioseco

T

he situation in the Middle East which forced the repatriation of almost ten thousand OFWs has compelled

Senator Loren Legarda to remind that keeping overseas Filipinos informed of the government’s programs and services that they can avail will help them better plan their future and assess their options so as not to be caught off guard when crisis in their host nations erupts.

During a recent hearing of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations chaired by Legarda she stressed that "Several programs of various government agencies can provide a wide range of opportunities for repatriated Filipinos if only they are aware that these programs exist."

Senator Loren Legarda, during the hearing of the Senate Committee on foreign reLationS LaSt marCh 29, 2011, queStionS the aCtionS and pLanS of the government in enSuring the SeCurity and weLL-being of overSeaS fiLipinoS in timeS of CriSiS.

Legarda cited that OFWs can avail of loans

of Republic Act 9501, or the Magna

“We have many good laws, policies, and

from the Small Business Corporation (SBC)

Carta for Micro, Small and Medium

programs in place, but are the people aware

to start up their own enterprise.

Enterprises (MSMEs)

of or are able to access these programs?"

Act,

which she

principally sponsored and authored, would Legarda said that the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA) has been

help in the reintegration of repatriated

"Coordination

and

among government

Filipinos.

providing ten thousand pesos (Php10,000)

convergence departments is

important to ensure that we maximize

assistance to overseas Filipinos who

“The law provides assistance to MSMEs

returned from Libya, and the SBC can grant

by requiring lending institutions to allocate

loans to OFWs who have the necessary

at least eight percent (8%) of their total loan

requirements.

portfolio to micro and small businesses."

the benefits of these programs for our people,” Legarda emphasized.

“In this case of the repatriated OFWs, the OWWA, POEA, TESDA, and SBC must closely

“If the two agencies had worked

"It

also

provides

access

to

new

coordinate so that they can provide the

together, these OFWs could have gained

technologies and regular entrepreneurship

better options on what they can do with

training programs for workers as well as a

the financial assistance given to them.”

comprehensive development plan that

"These programs should actually be

would ensure the viability and growth of

made known to our OFWs even before they

MSMEs in the country.”

leave the country to work abroad, so that

Legarda cited that the implementation 10 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

best options for our citizens."

congress whispers they can plan ahead and make good use of their money through good investments."

Legarda added, "We have to bring the government closer to the people, and we can only do that if our citizens are aware of what the government is actually doing for them."

D

travel documents to move from country

were underway after the House of

to country and return to the Philippines,

Representatives

even accusing the comebacking senator

Gutierrez and transmitted the Articles of

of possibly using fake travel papers; and

Impeachment to the Senate.

espite that the Department of Foreign Relations is denying that it provided Senator Panfilo Lacson with

E

ven with the Senate going on a six-week break, preparations for the

impeachment voted

proceedings to

impeach

the Secretary of the Department of Justice demanding that Senator Lacson spill the

The Senate adopted Resolution No. 432

beans and identify who coddled him

or the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment

during the 14 months that he was in hiding,

Trials.

Senator Lacson will be at the resumption of the Senate on May 9, 2011, to be one of the

Authored by Committee on Rules Chair

Senator-Judges during the impeachment

Senate Majority Floor Leader Vicente Sotto

trial of Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez

III, the Rules of Procedure was patterned

at the Senate.

after the Rules of Procedure used during former

President

Joseph

Estrada's

impeachment trial.

Once the Rules of Procedure on Impeachment Trials is published, the

SENATE RECEIVES ARTICLES OF ImPEAChmENT: SENATE SECRETARy EmmA LIRIO REyES RECEIVES ThE ARTICLES OF ImPEAChmENT ThAT wILL bE uSEd AGAINST OmbudSmAN mERCEdITAS GuTIERREz FROm REPRESENTATIVES NIEL TuPAS, ROdOLFO FARIñAS, ERIN TAñAdA ANd REy umALI.

Senate will convene as an impeachment court with the senators taking oath as

my concept of justice,” Senate President

judges.

Juan Ponce Enrile had enthused.

The Senate will then give the officer to be impeached ample time to reply.

LACSON GIVES FIRST PRESS CONFERENCE: SENATOR PANFILO LACSON hOLdS hIS FIRST NO hOLdS bARREd PRESS CONFERENCE AT ThE SEN. LAuREL ROOm IN SENATE, PASAy CITy AFTER hE SuRFACEd AFTER mORE ThAN A yEAR.hE RESuRFAAFTER ThE COuRT OF APPEALS RuLEd ThAT ITS dECISION LIFTING ThE wARRANT FOR hIS ARREST IS FINAL

According to Enrile, the Senate will not neglect its legislative work and will continue to hold public hearings during

“We will do what we have to do as

the impeachment proceedings.

senators of the Republic under our oath to do justice to people who come to us.

“As far as the schedule of trial that we

That's my oath. And I'm not going to be a

will put in the rules, we agreed among

party to just do harm to somebody if she is

ourselves that we will hold sessions in the

innocent. If she is guilty, then so be it. That's

morning and hold trials (in the afternoon?)

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 11

congress whispers four days a week, Mondays to Thursdays,”

properties without the consent of the other

prosecutors and former AFP Comptroller

the Senate President added.

spouse.

General Carlos Garcia, who is accused of plunder.

Under the proposed bill, the term “spouse of age” is to be replaced by the term

During the course of the investigation,

ince it resumed its session last

“either spouse” as it is superfluous, since a

the alleged “pabaon system” of high-

January,

approved

spouse must “necessarily be of age to enter

ranking military officials was uncovered:

on third reading five bills—the

into a contract of marriage,” according to

A Pandora's box opened, which led to the

Senator Miriam Defensor-Santiago.

implication of former AFP Chiefs of Staff

S

the

Senate

proposed GOCC Governance Act, the

and the sudden suicide of former AFP Chief

proposed Career Executive System Act, a bill Decriminalizing Vagrancy, and two

Likewise, Senate Bill No. 1052 amends

proposed amendments to the Family Code.

Article 26 of the Family Code, stating that

of Staff Angelo Reyes.

“where a marriage between a Filipino

The GOCC Governance Act of 2011 (SBN

citizen and a foreigner is validly celebrated

2640), sponsored by Sen. Franklin Drilon,

and a divorce is thereafter validly obtained

aims to reform the structure and operations

abroad by the alien spouse (capacitating

of GOCCs to exact from them efficient and

him or her to remarry), the Filipino spouse

effective public service. It also proposes the

shall likewise have the capacity to remarry

A

creation of the Government Commission

under Philippine law.”

with their conscience.

ll eyes will focus on the Senate once more for the impeachment trial. The Ombudsman has announced that

she assumes the Senator-Judges will vote

for GOCCs (GCG) as a central advisory and oversight body.

The Career Executive System Act

These two amendments to the Family

As far as the Filipino people are

Code (SBN 480 and 1052) are now both

concerned, she has grossly neglected her

pending in the House of Representatives.

public duty.

(SBN 2671) intends to strengthen the initiated

Meanwhile, as an entire nation waits in

ranks of government managers and

inquiries in aid of legislation. Climate

baited breath, I wish all the readers a Happy

executives. Authored by Senator Antonio

Change Committee Chair Sen. Loren

and Sizzling Summer!

Trillanes IV, the bill seeks to minimize

Legarda conducted hearings into the

political appointments and ensure that all

status and preparedness of our national

government officials are eligible under the

and local government agencies' disaster

Civil Service Law.

risk reduction and management plans in

bureaucracy

by

professionalizing

the

The

Senate

had

also

the light of the recent disasters that struck Another measure that was approved

Japan.

was a bill Decriminalizing Vagrancy (SBN 2726), sponsored by Sen. Francis Escudero.

The Senate Accountability of Public Officers and Investigations or Blue Ribbon

The measure proposes to remove

Committee chaired by Senator TG Guingona

vagrancy as a criminal offense in the

also

conducted

Revised Penal Code, because it is “often

into the plea bargaining

used to take advantage of people who

agreement between

cannot really stand up for themselves.”

government

Senate Bill No. 480 amends Article 3 of the Family Code, which states that a “spouse of age” has the right to

dispose

exclusive

12 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

O: OT PH

and

delved

NC TIO EA CR / G HN .XC CK O ST

Importer, Exporter and Wholesaler of Filipino Food Stuffs, Cosmetics, and Other Asian Products

GO Regional Trading Import and Export Pte Ltd

196 Pandan Loop #01-25 Pantech Business Hub, Singapore 128384 Tel: (65) 6776 0953 | (65) 6776 0965 Fax: (65) 6776 9076 | Email: goregional@singnet.com.sg

feature

ER OB YG R A M G/ HN C .X CK TO :S O OT PH

Valedictory Address (A Speech in Behalf of the SMA Batch 2011)

by Darcy Lagrimas de Asis (Darcy is a 16 year old girl who recently graduated Valedictorian from High School, Champion in Regional Impromptu Speech Competition and President of the Association of Catholic Schools-Young Leaders in Northern Samar.)

M

ost Rev. Emmanuel Trance, D.D., Bishop of the Diocese

we shall take our place and create an active role as citizens of the

of Catarman, distinguished guests, Dominican Sisters

Republic of the Philippines. When that time comes, we shall use all

of St. Catherine of Siena, dear teachers, beloved

the lessons, morals, and teachings our Alma Mater has provided

parents and fellow graduates, good morning!

us to create a new and dynamic nation powered by God fearing, nature loving leaders. Some of us may find success in the field

"The only way to discover the limits of the possible is to go beyond them into the impossible."

that we had chosen while others meet obstacles and problems.

Nevertheless, we must all strive and hold on to our dreams.

Graduation marks a very important milestone in our lives. It is

No words can really express the innermost feelings I now

a day of achievement and success, a day of enjoyment, a day of

grasp while speaking to you in this kind of occasion. I am very

remembering, and most importantly, a day of a new beginning. We

pleased to have the honor to speak in behalf of the graduating

are now gathered here to celebrate the fruits of our toil. This day is

class of 2011. Honestly, I dreamed of this occasion once before,

to celebrate the accomplishments and triumphs we had garnered

but I never thought that it will come true. I always believe that to

for the last four years of our stay in Saint Michael Academy. Four

be successful is to have a great motivation, a motivation which

years of unending joy, fulfilment, and obstacles combined. We have

manifests passion and sheer dedication. Success starts in setting

received our diplomas, certificates and awards which symbolize

goals and realizing it through everyday struggles and battles.

our diligence, perseverance, and hard work. Every one of us has

Through faith and perseverance, and with guidance from the Lord,

looked forward to this day as the fulfilment of our youthful dreams.

any individual will be successful. As what Vincent T. Lombardi once

And now, we are to leave the portals of our beloved institution and

said and I quote, “The difference between a successful person and

engage college life, equipped with the necessary things to survive

others is not the lack of strength, not the lack of knowledge, but

the next chapter of our youthful lives.

rather in a lack of will.�

We are now entering college life, a new life full of strange things

Allow me to express my great and heartfelt gratitude to our

and wider accessibilities. Freedom and liberty fully exercised to the

beloved Alma Mater, the prestigious, St. Michael Academy, for

extent of our capabilities. Doubts and uncertainties may darken

enveloping us with her tender embrace though the course of

our shaken and confused mind, but we must confidently face all

our high school life. We shall find it hard to stray our paths away

these for a brighter and vivid future all for the glory of God. Soon,

from the institution that cared and moulded us through our kind,

14 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

feature affectionate, and benevolent mentors and teachers that made our

we have shared.

youthful lives more interesting and happy. First, I sincerely thank God, the Father Almighty, for guiding and bestowing me with love and countless blessings.

As we all depart and leave the doors of this school, let us all be enlightened by the words of Mother Teresa of Calcutta, “Life is an opportunity, benefit from it. Life is beauty, admire it. Life is bliss,

To my family, especially to my parents, whose unending love,

taste it. Life is a dream, realize it. Life is a challenge, meet it. Life is

kindness, and support became my greatest motivation and

a duty, complete it. Life is a game, play it. Life is a promise, fulfil it.

inspiration to become this kind of person today. Thank you so

Life is sorrow, overcome it. Life is a song, sing it. Life is a struggle,

much for all the sacrifices you’ve made for me and my brother. You

accept it. Life is a tragedy, confront it. Life is an adventure, dare it.

are the true epitome of my success and achievements. I offer all of

Life is luck, make it. Life is too precious, do not destroy it. Life is life,

them to you and I love you.

fight for it.” We are all the realization of the dreams and vision of our Alma Mater. Fellow graduates and fellow Michaelians let

To the faculty and staff of St. Michael Academy, thank you

us all strive and crush all doubts and hesitations which shroud

for extending your help whenever I need it. Especially to the

our personalities. Let us all bring forth the mighty name of our

teachers, thank you for being part of my life. You all play a very

Alma Mater to greater heights than ever before. Let us all bring

significant role in the development of my personality throughout

forth the message of Truth to all the corners of the world and

my teenage life.

become the burning torch which provides light and hope for future generations to follow, succeed, and pursue. Thus will be

To my batch mates and dearest friends, thank you for being

our greatest dream, our dearest goal, and our unending legacy.

there to support me in my undertakings. You all became part of my life. I will forever treasure the memories and experiences

CONGRATULATIONS, Thank you and Mabuhay!

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 15

usapang legal

People Empowerment in Environmental Law Atty. Hazel R. Riguera

T

he recent spate of natural disasters involving

Citizen Suit

storms, floods, and the devastating tsunami

In the 1993 case of Oposa v. Factoran (G.R. No. 101083, 30 July

in Japan which triggered a nuclear crisis have

1993), the Supreme Court held that private citizens may in behalf

brought to the fore the importance of taking care

of the public file a suit for the protection of the environment,

of our environment in order to prevent or mitigate

even without or in the absence of legal action by public and

the adverse impact of these natural disasters. Scientific studies

administrative officers. This is known in other jurisdictions as the

have shown that the degradation of the environment and the

concept of the “private attorney general” or a “citizen suit.”

global warming phenomenon have resulted in the greater severity

concept was adopted by the Philippine Clean Air Act of 1999 (R.A.

of natural disasters, more particularly, storms and droughts.

No. 8749). Section 41 thereof provides for the “citizen suit” wherein

This

any citizen may file an appropriate civil, criminal or administrative In the Philippines, we have an excellent legal framework for

action in the courts against: (1) any person who violates the

environmental protection. The Constitution itself provides that

provisions of the Clean Air Act; (2) the DENR or other implementing

“[t]he State shall protect and advance the right of the people to

agencies with respect to orders and rules issued inconsistent with

a balanced and healthful ecology in accord with the rhythm and

the Clean Air Act; and (3) any public officer who willfully or grossly

harmony of nature.” (Sec. 16, Art. II). The problem, however, is in

neglects the performance of his duty, or abuses his authority, or

the enforcement. In other jurisdictions like the United States, the

in any manner improperly performs his duties under the Clean

efficacy of environmental laws is greatly aided by empowering

Air Act.

the citizenry as partners in its enforcement. It is fortunate that the

public officer or violator a 30-day notice and the latter did not take

Philippines is moving in this direction.

appropriate action.

16 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

Before filing the suit, the citizen must have given the

usapang legal

PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/SEBADANON

A citizen suit is exempt from the payment of filing fees, except

Solid Waste Management Act or whether the remedy could be

fees for actions not capable of pecuniary estimation. Moreover,

extended to other environmental laws. These questions were

upon a prima facie showing of the non-enforcement or violation

answered with the issuance by the Supreme Court of the Rules of

complained of, the plaintiff is exempt from the requirement of

Procedure for Environmental Cases which became effective on 29

posting a bond for the issuance of a preliminary injunction. (Sec.

April 2010 (RPEC for brevity). Section 5 thereof reads as follows:

41, R.A. No. 8749).

SEC. 5. Citizen Suit. -- Any Filipino citizen in representation For instance, Pedro, an OFW residing in England takes a vacation

of others, including minors or generations yet unborn, may file

in the rustic provincial town where he was born. He is shocked to

an action to enforce rights or obligations under environmental

find that a factory spewing noxious fumes into the air has been

laws. xxx

put up there.

The public authorities refuse or neglect to file

the appropriate court action to stop the pollution as the factory

Citizen suits filed under R.A. No. 8749 and R.A. No. 9003 shall be governed by their respective provisions.

is owned by a powerful politician. Pedro may file a citizen suit against the factory owner and the public authorities in order to stop the pollution.

What one notices is that the remedy of a citizen suit under the RPEC is not limited to the Clean Air Act or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act but is available in all cases involving

The remedy of the citizen suit was subsequently also provided

“environmental laws.” Hence, citizen suits may be filed for all types

for in the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000. (Sec.

of environmental cases. In deference however to Congress, the

52, R.A. No. 9003). This law also states that if the citizen should

Supreme Court added a caveat that citizen suits under the Clean

prevail in his suit, the court shall award reasonable attorney’s fees,

Air Act and the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act shall be

moral damages, and litigation costs as may be appropriate.

governed by their respective provisions.

Questions were asked on whether a citizen suit was available

To further encourage the protection of the environment, the

only in cases involving the Philippine Clean Air Act or the Ecological

RPEC enables litigants enforcing environmental rights to file their APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 17

usapang legal cases as citizens’ suits. Under the Rules of Civil Procedure, the

the principle calls for the exercise of caution in the face of risk or

general rule is that only persons who have suffered personal or

uncertainty.

direct injury have the legal standing to file a civil action. Section 5 of the RPEC, however, liberalizes such standing for it provides that

Peculiar circumstances may surround environmental cases

a citizen may file a citizen suit in representation of others, in effect

in that “scientific evidence is usually insufficient, inconclusive

making a citizen akin to a public officer. The RPEC also provides

or uncertain and preliminary scientific evaluation indicates

that the payment of filing fees shall be deferred until after the

that there are reasonable grounds for concern” that there are

judgment.

potentially dangerous effects on the environment, human, animal, or planet health. For this reason, the principle requires

The RPEC was issued by the Supreme Court as it realized the

those who have the means, knowledge, power, and resources to

desirability of the citizenry taking a more pro-active role in the

take action to prevent or mitigate the harm to the environment

enforcement and observance of environmental laws. The rules

or to act when conclusively ascertained understanding by

seek to empower people’s organizations, non-governmental

science is not yet available. In effect, the quantum of evidence

organizations, and public interest groups involved in or handling

to prove potentially hazardous effects on the environment is

environmental cases.

relaxed and the burden is shifted to proponents of an activity that may cause damage to the environment. (Supreme Court

Anti-SLAPP ProviSionS

annotation to the RPEC).

A strategic legal action against public participation (SLAPP) is a legal action filed to harass, vex, exert undue pressure or stifle any

When there is lack of full scientific certainty in establishing a

legal recourse that any person, institution or the government has

causal link between human activity and environmental effect, the

taken or may take in the enforcement of environmental laws. For

court shall apply the precautionary principle in resolving the case

instance, a big corporation that is guilty of pollution and against

before it. The constitutional right of the people to a balanced and

whom a citizen suit has been filed may retaliate with a suit or suits

healthful ecology shall be given the benefit of the doubt. (Sec.

against the citizen. Faced with a battery of blue-chip corporate

1, Rule 20, RPEC).

litigators and forced to incur legal expenses in order to defend

hampered by the lack of evidentiary and scientific resources on the

himself, the citizen may be intimidated or pressured to drop the

part of environmental plaintiffs to establish a causal link between

case.

the defendant’s act or omission and the environmental damage.

Anti-SLAPP laws were first enacted in the United States to

punish or dissuade the filing of a SLAPP suit.

In the past, many environmental cases were

Under the precautionary principle, the burden of evidence is shifted from the plaintiff to the defendant where there is a likelihood of

The first anti-SLAPP law in the Philippines was Section 43 of the

environmental damages and such will be caused by the defendant

Clean Air Act which provided that if the court finds that a SLAPP

desiring to change the status quo.

suit was filed, it shall dismiss the case and impose attorney’s fees

will desire to put up a nuclear fission plant in a coastal village.

and double damages against the SLAPP filer. A similar anti-SLAPP

The villagers file a citizen suit to enjoin the erection of the plant.

provision was adopted in the Ecological Solid Waste Management

While there is no definite scientific data linking a nuclear fission

Act. The Supreme Court also incorporated an anti-SLAPP provision

plant to environmental or health damage to nearby inhabitants,

in the RPEC; hence the same can be availed of in all environmental

the burden of evidence is shifted from the plaintiff-citizens to the

cases. Under the RPEC, if a court finds that a SLAPP suit has been

defendant. The defendant must then prove that there is no danger

filed, it shall dismiss the same and award attorney’s fees, damages,

to the environment or health rather than the plaintiffs proving that

and costs of suit.

there is such danger.

PrecAutionAry PrinciPLe

For example a corporation

Awareness of the foregoing remedies will encourage more of our

The precautionary principle states that when human activities

people to take up the cudgels in the defense of our environment.

may lead to threats of serious and irreversible damage to the

After all, as aptly put in Oposa v. Factoran, environmental

environment that is scientifically plausible but uncertain, actions

protection is not only in defense of the present but also of the

shall be taken to avoid or diminish that threat. In its essence,

future generations.

18 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

Munt ing Pangarap

munting pangarap

Layunin ng pahinang ito ang magbigay katuparan sa mga munting pangarap ng mga OFWs. Ang kanilang mga kahilingan ay sisikaping tuparin at bigyang katuparan ng Bagong Bayani sa pamamagitan ng pakikipag-ugnayan sa ibat-ibang tao, organisasyon o ahensiya ng gobyerno. Ang mga may “munting pangarap” ay ina-anyayahang sumulat sa info@iambagongbayani.com. – Editor

Sa may kinauukulan, Natutuwa ako at may isang magazine na lumabas para sa

Ngunit nitong nakaraang pasko, isang dagok sa buhay ko na naman

tulad naming OFW. Sa paraang ito nakakita ako ng kakampi sa

ang dumating, naaksidente ang aking asawa at nangailangan ng

banyagang lugar.

operasyon upang maisalba ang buhay.

Napasakamay ko at nabasa ang inyong unang issue.

Sa mga nagdaang operasyon, siguro tatlong patong na balot ng pagkatao ko ang aking pagkakautang; ngayon pinangangambahan

Ako po ay si Ma. Antoneth Ullegue, 35 years old, kasalukuyang naninilbihan bilang FDW dito sa Woodlands Circle, Singapore. At

ko kung hanggang kailan ko matatapos ang pag-iipon upang maoperahan na ang aking anak.

gaya ng iba, nilisan ko ang Pilipinas para sa aking pamilya at dahil Nagbabakasakali ako na sa tulong ninyo ay matulungan n’yo

na rin sa aking bunsong anak.

ang anak ko na maoperahan na, dahil nangangamba ako na ma-“infection” siya. Dahil “lapse” na po ang colostomy niya . . . at

Si Amiel Joeneth o AJ kung

kailangan na po talaga siyang maoperahan na.

tawagin namin ay ipinanganak na may Hirschprung disease— isang sakit sa bituka. May parte ng

Kumakatok po ako sa may mga ginintuang puso na tulungan

kanyang “large intestine” ang hindi

n’yo po sana ang anak ko . . . Kalakip po nito ang kanyang larawan.

gumagana at nagiging dahilan

Maaari po ninyo silang makontak sa +639308431165. Sila ay

upang

makadumi.

kasalukuyang naninirahan sa Villa Carmel Brgy. Baybay, Roxas City,

Dalawang buwan pa lang siya

Capiz. Anuman pong tulong na maibbibigay ninyo sa kanya para

nang maoperahan ng colostomy

sa kanyang operasyon ay ipagpapasalamat ko po ng lubusan . . .

hindi

siya

upang pansamantalang mailabas Maari po ninyo akong makontak sa aking mobile numbers na

niya ang kanyang dumi. Inabot ng tatlong taon bago siya maoperahan ulit upang maisaayos ang

+6583312055 (Singapore) at +639281692382 (roaming).

kanyang hirschprung dahil na rin sa kakulangan sa pera, ngunit nangangailangan pa rin siya ng isa pang operasyon. Ito ay upang

Ant onet h

Lubos na umaasa,

maipasok na ang kanyang colostomy.

Ito ang naging matibay kong dahilan upang magdesisyon umalis ng bansa. Sa kabila ng pangamba sa kanyang sitwasyon.

For donations please email donate@iambagongbayani.com or call +65 9388 6515 APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 19

PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/SORINETZU

environment

Global Environmental War Waged by a Small Voice Teresa Mangada Sarmiento

T

he erratic changes in our present climate, the

she suffered greatly in the advancements of mankind. Mother

alarming natural and manmade environmental

earth is slowly dying and so are we. Melodramatic as it may seem

disasters that plagued various countries and the

but there is a grave cause to this statement. Come to think of it. The

occasion of Earth Day celebration on April 22

relationship between mother earth and man has been a one-sided

provides us all, human beings, a suitable time to

affair where man takes anything and everything from her without

reflect on the present state of our habitat, the earth. Mother Earth

giving anything in return.

is our home, our life. It is the very heart of humanity’s survival. The destiny and future of humankind depend solely on her capacity

In the beginning, mother earth and mankind had a very intimate

to feed and take care of mankind under her maternal care. The

and balanced relationship in which mother earth provides and

question is, at her age now at 4.55 billion years, can she sustain

mankind accepts her blessings. But then, it did not stay that way for

taking care of the global population of 6.91 billion people under

long. As man learned about his environment, his knowledge and

her maternal care? Does she still have the nourishment and

skills lead to countless inventions and technology that capitalize

strength to give all that mankind demanded of her? Can she

on mother earth’s life-sustaining gifts and thus weakening her

withstand the impact on her with the advent of multi- technology

strengths. Decades and decades of man’s abuse and misuse have

in science, infrastructure, warfare, and digital era that man has

taken a heavy toll on her fragile sustenance to support mankind.

made for himself? As simple as the question is, the answer is

Man’s greed for profit paved the way for mother earth’s devastation.

undeniably alarming. Mother earth can only take too much and

More than a decade ago, I was called an ultra-alarmist writer

20 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

environment when

I

made

an

article

Earth and mankind.

about the disturbing state of deforestation in our country, the Philippines, as an aftermath of

What more do we need to convince ourselves that mother earth is slowly dying?

the Leyte flooding and landslide that buried hundreds of our

On the occasion of Earth Day celebration this April 21st there

damaged

is a strong and urgent need to focus an enormous amount of

millions of agricultural crops

public interest in bringing an overwhelming awareness to all

and homes. For most, it was just

the people- organized and individuals, government or business

a dreadful tragedy that warrants

sectors- the devastated state of the world we live in. Present the

pity. Although environmentalists

facts clearly, urgently and dramatically to all sectors of society, in

and

agencies

all countries around the world. Make an appeal for everyone and

took the matters seriously in

all to make them realize that the direction we are doing is wrong,

their programs of actions, yet

has always been wrong and will be wrong unless a concerted

the flooding in Leyte and in

effort participated in by all sectors of society will come up with

other parts of the country has

a simple, realistic and attainable plan of action to help mother

been continuously unabated

earth resuscitate its strength and stop all the devastations and

despite the total log ban law.

destructions done to her by man’s greed for profits. The truth that

Deforestation,

we live in a badly damaged mother earth is now beyond debate.

kababayans

and

government

mining,

land

conversion are still the order of

What then can the children of tomorrow inherit from us?

the day.

In my opinion, the environmental crisis is as glaring and The April 22nd Earth Day

imminent in the last decade than in any other period of catastrophic

celebration was pioneered by

history and that there is a pressing immediacy to a call of action.

US Senator Gaylord Nelson on

We need small voices like ours to form bigger voices, hoping to

April 22, 1970 participated in by

draw an interrelationship amongst us and amongst nation, work

over 20 million people. Today,

with governments and non-government entities towards stopping

national governments in 175

the continuing plunder of mother earth for greed and profits.

countries and 500 million people celebrated Earth Day in response to widespread environmental degradation. Yet, much still needs to be done to wage this war.

This is a huge mobilization of voices and it might be overshadowed with the ongoing wars waged in Libya, Yemen, Cote de Voire, Afganistan, Tunisia and Iraq, hence, this grass roots

“Mother earth has enough for everyone’s needs, but not for everyone’s greed”- Mahatma Gandhi The past decades have seen the onslaught of calamities of great proportions depicting mother earth’s state of alarming

outcry for the preservation of mother earth must be consistent, urgent and compelling as this is the mother war of all wars.

degradation and depredation due to unabated exploitation. The earthquake in Mexico(1985), Haiti(2010) and New Zealand(2011),

To marshal such a gigantic effort, we all need to start with each

tsunami in Thailand Indonesia and Sri Lanka(2004), oil spill in the

one of us, the grass roots sector, to lead and act. I am zealously

gulf of Mexico(2010) and lately, Japan’s earthquake and tsunami

convinced that only the people can act and only the people can

that caused death to thousands, devastated homes and lives,

win.

and damaged its nuclear plant that has now become the most frightening environmental threat not only to Japan but to Mother

The time is NOW! APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 21

opinion

Reaching Out to the Filipino Homeland Through the Internet (Part 2 of 2)

By Prof Cesar Torres

A

PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/SQBACK

s we go to press, we are mesmerized by the turmoil in

Indonesian group and Osama bin Laden’s Al Qaeda, have been

the Middle East — rebellions, violence, blood and death,

waging a war against the Philippine government. To make the

massive changes in the systems of government, in the

situation more confusing, the New People’s Army has guerilla

political and governmental leadership — which may have been

fronts in Mindanao. Not to be outdone, even America has assigned

influenced by the Internet through “social networking” such as

soldiers in Mindanao. The island may have untapped deposits of

Facebook, Twitter, and “electronic mail”.

gold, minerals, gas, and possibly oil. And just below Mindanao are the Islamic countries of Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei. And the

In our case, what has the Internet and computers got to do with reaching out to the homeland? Plenty!

Straits of Malacca, one of the busiest commercial sealanes of the Seven Seas, is crawling with pirates and bandits.

Several years ago, in April 2005 to be exact, the Internet figured

The Dinner for Mindanao was hatched by a Filipina-American

prominently in a worldwide Filipino collaboration that focused

in the Evergreen State of Washington who originally came from

on two major projects that may have never been done before:

Pampanga and Pangasinan in Luzon and Manila, Ms. Anita Sese.

(1) a fund raising dinner to help the Lumads (the indigenous

She has never been to Mindanao at all. But through constant

Filipinos in Mindanao who are neither Christians nor Muslims), the

interaction in the Internet with other Filipinos all over the world,

impoverished Christians, and the Muslims in Marbel, Cotabato, (2)

especially with her Internet buddy, Jing Ureta of Cotabato, she

a set of interrelated activities designed to (a) raise funds for the

decided to have a fund raising dinner where she would prepare

disabled in “Tahanan Walang Hagdanan” (TWH) or “Home Without

steak and salmon for 50 selected guests paying P2,500 or roughly

Stairs”, (b) a series of workshops in Cainta, Rizal to highlight the

$50 per person. She purchased the steak by using her savings. The

massive and continuing destruction of the Philippine environment

salmon was donated by the Soquamish Indians in Washington.

by commemorating Earth Day, and (c) a culminating activity, a parade attended by more than 1,000 people brandishing brooms

Ms. Sese flew to the Philippines to prepare this dinner assisted by

made of coconut midribs known as “Walis Tingting” to “Clean Up

colleagues who were in constant communication with each other

the Philippines” (CUP) of the corruption and incompetence in the

through the Internet. The Philippine Department of Foreign Affairs,

government.

through San Francisco Consul General Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez, an avid Internet user herself, provided assistance to

The funds generated during the steak and salmon dinner

Ms. Sese when she arrived in Manila. The banquet hall in Makati

was intended for the projects in Mindanao of an Internet

where the dinner was served was paid for by a colleague in the

group, known as Progressive Times Action Group (PTAG) which

Filipino Insider, Jose Galang Caedo III, one of the most assiduous

was founded by Mr. Ernie Delfin of So. California about three

and erudite computer and Internet users we have ever known who

years ago.

manipulates his computer system by touch and sound. Jay, as we fondly refer to him, is totally blind.

Mindanao is the second largest island of the Philippine Archipelago where the members of the bandit and kidnapping

Two of the guests from Mindanao during the dinner included

Muslim group of the Abu Sayyaf are roaming. It is the area where

Senator Aquilino Q. Pimentel, Jr., the most gracious computer and

the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF), a Muslim secessionist

Internet user in the Philippine Senate, and young Muslim Princess

movement which may have ties to Jemaah Islamiyah, a militant

from Cotabato, Baibonn “Tayan Kong” Sangid, whose passion for

22 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

opinion the welfare of her fellow Muslims in the Philippines is beyond

the significance of the event. During the parade itself, which was

compare. You can discern it from her colorful use of e-mails in the

attended by more than 1,000 people, a contingent of some 200

Internet. A Filipina from London, Ms. Corrie Leaño, joined Ms. Sese.

disabled people from TWH in their wheelchairs accompanied by

She performed a sensual belly dance to entertain the guests which

their children, joined the parade. They assembled at the parade

she learned through the World Web Web.

grounds in Cainta, Rizal as early as 4:00 AM.

In recognition of the trailblazing effort of this motley group

So how much money was generated by the two events? The

of Filipinos who were organizing together in cyberspace, U.P.

final reports have yet to be prepared. But for the Mindanao Dinner,

President Dr. Emerlinda Roman, sent an official representative to

some P125,000 or a little more than $2,315 was estimated to be

attend the dinner, the Assistant Vice President for Public Affairs,

generated. The “Clean Up Philippines” or “Walis Tingting” event was

Dr. Lydia Arcellana. All communications with the U.P. was done

expected to gross P100,000 or approximately $1,850. Not much

through the Internet.

when compared with the amount that a dinner-dance of a Filipino organization pays to a five-star hotel during their annual parties in

The 1,000 “Walis Tingting” were put together by disabled workers

the San Francisco Bay Area. But the camaraderie, the morale, and

in TWH, the beneficiaries of the proceeds of all the sales. PTAG

the enthusiasm of everyone involved in the two events that were

members and sympathizers sold them all over the World Wide Web

organized through the Internet are priceless.

for P100 each, about $2.00. E-mail after e mail were transmitted in the Internet enticing the World Wide Web to buy “Walis Tingting”.

When a massive mobilization of Filipinos all over the world can

Filipinos from the Netherlands, London, the US, the Middle East,

be undertaken to focus on the Philippines, a mobilization that can

and of course all over the Philippines, donated money for the

include even the physically impaired in Tahanan Walang Hagdanan,

CUP ostensibly to buy the “Walis Tingting” when they realized

the potential benefits for the Philippines are incalculable.

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cover story

Fr. Angel Luciano, CiCm

Filipino missionary and master Keeper of Christian Faith in Singapore

By MaryJane Salomon and Teresa Mangada Sarmiento Photos by Bhong E. Odal

G

od has given mankind the responsibility of caring for

of his loyal followers and supporters. But his tireless preaching

the natural world and using its resources well. But we

of the word of God has far- reaching impact to almost 160,000

need to remember that, as well as being responsible

Filipinos working and living in Singapore. His magnanimous work

for creation, we are part of it. When creation suffers, we suffer the

for the community has been a source of inspiration and strength

most. When creation is healthy, we benefit.

to the faithful. His contagious laughter, affectionate teachings and no-nonsense approach to life and his selfless contribution to the

The latest ecological changes in the past few years were

community has given him the respect and love of every Filipino in

dramatic and detrimental: dwindling rainforests, eroded hillsides,

this small city- state. A Modern-Day Hero Extraordinaire, not only

infertile soils, more frequent floods and landslides, silted up rivers,

in his own right but in the hearts of everyone who believes in the

polluted and diminishing water supplies, poisoned and polluted

Christian faith.

streams, polluted air, dying reefs, decreasing fish supplies, and list of environmental devastation goes on and on. There is an

He has traveled and served in different countries as far as Africa

urgent need for all sectors to work together to arrest the imminent

teaching the word of God to his followers before he made Singapore

environmental catastrophe coming our way. At the alarming rate of

his second home. At 65 years of age, Father Angel epitomizes a

our environmental destruction that leads to ecological imbalance,

solid spiritual figure in his congregation coupled with his jovial

there is a need for a holistic approach which is crucial in commune

persona and his penchant to paraphrase Christian teachings to the

with the biblical message about God’s purpose for His creation and

practical realms of life that makes him an endearing person to talk

the relevant practical issues: ecological, economic, cultural and

to. For his followers, Father Angel is the “wind beneath their wings.”

political.

Meet Father Angel Luciano, CICM, a devout Filipino Missionary Religion has an important role of relating the social, economic,

in Singapore.

and scientific factors of everyday life to the foundations of our faith. commitment towards environmental protection and preservation,

RELATIONSHIP OF MAN TO HIMSELF, TO OTHERS AND TO GOD

as environment is one of the pillars of God's creations. Faith and

It was not an easy task for me to get the approval of this very

Environment must coexist in a world full of uncertainties.

important man to grace our cover for this April issue of BAGONG

Church leaders preach, teach, and challenge everyone to deep

BAYANI magazine. He is devoid of almost everything except The subject of our cover story for April is not a typical Overseas

the desire to serve and continue to explore and propagate the

Filipino Worker as he is not earning money for his work. As such, he

Catholic faith in Singapore. It is this common goal that we share

does not send any remittance to his family and loved ones in the

which prompted Father Angel to accept our endless plea. Thus, we

Philippines. Remarkable, Fatherly, Inspiring, Simple and Down-to-

agreed to conduct the interview one fine day at 9am in his office at

earth, these are the words to describe Father Angel, as he is fondly

St. Michael Church in Serangoon area. He opened the very casual

called by almost everyone. He is a moral compass and spiritual

interview by simplifying the relationship between man and God.

guide to everyone. He is on his own, surrounded only by thousands

“Man should respect himself. This is instinctive. Man should satisfy

24 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

cover story

“As a priest, I am very lucky and contented with my life because my intention is clear and solid – to serve mankind.”

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 25

cover story himself by knowing what he wants to be, what others expect of

IMPRESSION ON SINGAPORE

him and what God expects of him,” he emphasized.

He praised Singapore for having a system that works. For legalizing respect for every religion and the fact that everyone is respected. “I

IMPORTANCE OF THE ENVIRONMENT

am very happy to be here. The people in this country respect and

Father Angel was quick to highlight that he is not an expert on

obey. Everyone has dignity and in a sense, we are living the world of

the environment. But due to the impact of disaster and worldwide

tomorrow here. No natural calamity as they respect nature. This is a

catastrophe, the question as to the basic if not the most relevant

Garden in the City”, he further commented. Father Angel considers

reason for what is happening now in the world is a food for

Singapore a “Heaven on Earth” place to live and work. He admired

thought for every Filipino and for everyone who believes in God,

Singapore as a country, its laws, its government and its people. He

and this was what he said, “The root cause of all the environmental

noted that in Singapore you have a dignity as a human person and

degradation is man's abuse to nature, to the environment in

your safety is always assured because the government assured

which he lives in. The environment is God’s creation for mankind’s

your rights as a citizen and as a migrant. For years, he observed

sustenance with a responsibility to preserve and protect. Man

how Singapore implemented and enforced environmental laws to

should have a respect for nature as he respects himself. When man

preserve and protect its ecology. Its citizens are also duty- bound in

losses his self-respect, he loses his respect for nature as well and

their own simple ways to observe simple environmental practices

man becomes destructive. He invents bombs, pesticides, nuclear

which add up to a unified and contented citizenry. And despite

reactor plants that destroy the environment. Man has become a

her super advanced technology and infrastructures, Singapore

destructive force against the environment. The power of his mind

still puts the ecology and the environment in its primary agenda.

is amplified by his machines and inventions for greed and profit.

A simple example is that before a building is constructed, trees will

He loses his faith in God that is why he becomes destructive. He

be planted first. The building comes later. "This for me, is respect for

is the co-creator of God, so he should protect what he creates and

ecology," he summarized.

not destroy it", he concluded.

ON JAPAN

ON BEING A FILIPINO AND THOUGHTS ON THE OFWS IN SINGAPORE

According to Father Angel, "Japan’s misfortune is caused by her own

“I am so proud of what the Filipinos are doing here in Singapore in

disrespect to her environment. Japan has been cheating and has

whatever field of endeavor they are into. Just like the kasambahay

been dumping waste, including toxic waste, to the Pacific Ocean

in the maiden issue of BAGONG BAYANI, I salute all Filipino migrants

that contaminates and have a negative effect on the ecology. They

who despite their meager income, still works with dedication just

said it is okay because there are tons and tons of water beneath.

to send their children to school or help their families back home”,

The fishermen were complaining because it greatly affects their

he added. Father Angel related to us an inspiring story that took

source of living, after the earthquake and the tsunami, the damage

place during the National Day of Singapore in 2002, when a

of their nuclear reactor plant has put the lives of its people and the

Filipino nurse, Jonelle Pinera, was declared a hero by the Singapore

ecology at an alarming threat. The radiation from the damaged

government for his exemplary work during the SARS period which

nuclear plant will definitely affect the natural wildlife in the sea

had cost his life when he died of SARS. “I was there during the

and the damage is almost irreparable. I hope that we have reap

awarding of plaque and I felt so proud and honored as a Filipino

substantial lessons from Japan’s misfortune and this should not be

for such a huge recognition”, he said. Mr. Pinera was a nurse taking

repeated anywhere”, Father Angel warned.

care of an aged patient and he did not abandon patient despite the threat of the effect of SARS. In fact, all the Filipino health workers did

COUNTRIES AT WAR AND THE ONGOING CIVIL WARS

not abandon their work because they felt that they were needed

And Father did not fail to talk about the continuing unrest in the

for the Filipino migrant health professionals to enter the workforce

Middle East and commented, “Look at what is happening in the

in Singapore. Because of the lure of greener pastures and efficient

ongoing wars today. This is not really to defend people. It is all

system, Father Angel has observed that the Filipino migrants

about oil. This is the cause of all wars, OIL”, he observed.

have tremendously increased in number since he first came here

26 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

here that time. This incident paved the way in opening the gates

cover story twelve years ago. “Filipinos are everywhere in many diverse fields

And as we celebrate the observance of Holy Week, let us make

of work such as engineers, IT professionals, bankers, entertainers,

this an opportunity to renew our faith and think about Christ's

waiters, even managerial or top level positions have been given

sacrifices for all of us before claiming victory over sin, death and

to Filipino working professionals by top multinational corporations

the devil. Let us follow what Father Angel is advocating all his life

in recent years. Undeniably, they comprise a significant sector in

that “Ang bawat nilikha ay kinakailangan magkaroon ng isang

the economic life of Singapore and if one day our government

adhikain na magpapagalaw sa kanyang sarili, sa kapwa at

will make a recall of all workers to go back home, I am afraid the

kapaligiran na magtataguyod ng pagmamahal, katarungan, at

move will have a huge impact in this country. You can see Filipinos

kapayapaan sa mundo bilang kanyang tugon sa paanyaya ng

everywhere, even the MRT is now operated by three (3) Filipino

pagmamahal ng dakilang Maykapal.” (Everybody should have a

women. The service that is being provided by the Filipinos is now

vision for himself to promote peace, love, and justice to others, to

being felt all over the world,” he proudly stated.

God , and to society as his response to God's love). Keeping our faith is the only thing that we can do in this troubled world, and

FILIPINO PRIEST

his message to all the Filipinos working and living in Singapore is

On his role as a Filipino missionary, this is what Father Angel has to

simple yet resounding: Keep your faith, in this uncertain times and

say, "As a priest, I am very lucky and contented with my life because

in the midst of hopelessness, what I can offer is a gentle reminder

my intention is clear and solid--- to serve mankind. In doing so, I

that if we put God in the center of yourself and others, there is no

am happy and I feel a sense of accomplishment for all the work

reason for us to be afraid.

that I have done in my life and it is beyond what money could pay for. Being a missionary priest is my vocation, my life, my calling.

It is my mission to preach the Word of our Lord to the people. To give advice, to inspire and to preach the spiritual teachings and values of our Lord Jesus Christ. It gives me so much happiness when people thank me for providing hope during their moment

“I am so proud of what the Filipinos are doing here in Singapore in whatever field of endeavor they are into.”

of despair, forgiving advice for those who are burdened and in grief. In this world of haves and have-nots, people who have more should give back to the needy ones". To sum up it all, his greatest feat is when people thank him for what he is doing and this made him grateful and happy.

AS A BAGONG BAYANI, IN HIS OWN RIGHT. On being called as a Bagong Bayani, Father Angel said, “I am humbled”. But actually, he does not like to be called “Bagong Bayani” as he is still alive. When asked what would be his one big role which he has to assume for our countrymen, “Simple, to continue helping and serving them from the heart”. According to Ms. Charo Cheong, "Father Angel is just like a father figure to all the Filipinos in Singapore. He is a friend to me and to all of us.

He is always there to guide and remind us to pray. He is an ardent supporter of Barangay Christ the King and Devotion of Penafrancia, which started in Ang Mo Kio and other parts of Singapore as the Filipino community grew in leaps and bounds. Because of him, Saturday Filipino masses became a regular occurrence in almost all Catholic churches in Singapore. He is the first Filipino priest who gave emphasis on the observance of "simbang gabi" in Singapore.”

Indeed, Father Angel is a trailblazer.

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 27

kulturang pinoy

Lutong Bahay

i

By Karen Baloma-Bunal

live in New York and a full time mom and a wife, mother

This Lumpiang Shanghai is filled with ground pork or beef,

of two kids and another one is on the way. I work only in

minced carrots, onion, and spices with the mixture held together

the house, mostly cooking. My husband is in the US Army.

by beaten eggs. This variety is by standard an inch in diameter and

His work has taken us around the US and we also love to

approximately 4-6 inches in length; also served with a spicy sauce

travel; that exposure to different cuisines has undoubtedly

or sweet and sour sauce.

influenced my culinary craftsmanship. Since cooking is really my passion, I started posting my everyday dish to my facebook account and most of my friends are always asking for the recipes, so I decided to make this blog to be helpful to everyone. I started cooking when I was 8 yrs old, and that experience helped me a lot. Cooking, baking, especially serving Pinoy food for family and friends has always been a source of joy for me. It is an expression of love, a way to say I care about you and hope you enjoy our time together. Hopefully, you will find something here to prepare for your family, for your friends or even just for yourself.

Lechon KawaLi (Crispy Pan-Fried Pork Belly) and others called it Bagnet. This is a very popular dish in the Philippines. This is quick and easy to cook. Only involves boiling and deep-frying. Usually served with steamed rice and sweet liver sauce called sarsa.

Lumpiang Sariwa in English, Fresh springrolls consist of minced (heart of palm) ubod, flaked chicken, crushed peanuts and turnips as an extender in a double wrapping of lettuce leaf and folded into soft, crepe-like wrapper made with eggs. This variety is not fried and is usually around 2 inches in diameter and 6 inches in length; it is also the most popular among the Filipino variants.

Lucia Cunanan of Angeles City has been credited with inventing SiSig, she is known as the Sisig Queen. Preparing this meal comes in three phases: boiling, broiling, and finally frying. A pig’s head is first boiled to remove hairs and to tenderize it. Portions of it are then chopped and grilled or broiled. Finally, it is fried with onions and served on a sizzling plate. Variations of sisig may add any of the following: eggs, ox brains, pork or chicken liver, chicharon (pork 28 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

kulturang pinoy cracklings) and even mayonnaise. Nowadays, local restaurants in the Philippines have experimented with ingredients other than pork such as tuna, chicken, beef and seafood.

Buko Pandan Salad, is a favorite Filipino dessert served in Pancit PalaBok is one of the many Filipino favorite merienda

most party and special occasions. This is very easy to make and

or snacks and can always be found in all Filipino parties. This

you can have 2 or 3 servings or as much as you can. This is made

is a noodle dish with shrimp sauce and topped with several

using the green gelatin which contains the aroma and flavored

ingredients such as cooked shrimp, boiled pork, boiled eggs,

of the Skrewpine (also known as Pandan leaves), young coconut,

crushed chicharon (pork cracklings), tinapa flakes, scallions, and

condensed milk, all purpose cream and tapioca pearl also topped

adobong pusit (squid).

with vanilla ice cream.

GinataanG

halo-

halo

unique

is

a

dessert or snack in the Philippines,

I

should

say. It has a rich coconut milk and has a variety of root crops like taro root dinuGuan (also called dinardaraan in Ilocano, tid tad,

(gabi), sweet ‘’yums” potato (camote) and fruits such as babana

Pampanga and dinggu in my hometown in San Roque, Northern

(saba), Langkang hinog (jackfruit), and I also added tapioca pearl

Samar. Possible English translations: pork blood stew, blood

to look more interesting and give great taste feeling.

pudding stew, chocolate meat another Filipino favorite dish that is cooked with pork blood and meat (typically stomach, intestines, ears, heart and snout) simmered in a rich pig’s blood, garlic, chili (siling haba) and vinegar. The primary ingredients were pork, vinegar, and blood. Dinuguan is often served with steamed rice or a Philippine rice cake called puto.

Steamed rice cake and with butter or topped with cheese and always good together with Dinuguan. Properly prepared Puto is fluffy, light, soft,

kutSinta is a brown rice cake always served with freshly grated

chewy, moist, has fine uniform grains

coconut. One of my favorite Filipino desserts.The main ingredients

and imparts a slightly yeasty aroma of

are rice flour, brown sugar, water, lye water and of course the grated

fermented rice batter.

coconut to be topped when it’s done steaming.

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 29

feature

The Wonderful Thing Called Love

by Dr. Marilyn D. Surio “Love is a many splendored thing, “ to quote some lyrics of a

Having been so long without love, some people understand

popular song. Yes, love has different meanings to different people.

love only as a need and this is where many lovers go wrong. They don’t understand that love is a gift that can be made to grow only

Love is inexplicable. It is something abstract. It is not visible like other objects but you can truly feel it; and if you are in love, you

by giving it away. Give it to the world around you in your own little way. After all, it’s love that makes the world go round.

seem to be living in cloud nine. But have you fallen in love with someone who doesn’t love you? Don’t feel defeated. Instead, be

Love is love’s reward. When it comes, embrace it. Handle it with

gentle with yourself because there’s nothing wrong with you. Love

care because it’s “fragile”. But if it chooses to leave from your heart

didn’t choose to dwell in other person’s heart.

or from the heart of your loved one, face the reality because love has its own time and its own reason for coming and leaving.

Have you lost the one you loved so dearly? Perhaps, it is one of the saddest moments in your life, but always remember, “It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.”

Love has always been and will always be wonderful. Be thankful that it has come to live for a moment in your life, more so, for a lifetime.

Have you parted ways with your love one? Then, open your heart for a reconciliation because “Love is lovelier the second time around.” But if there’s no more chance to save the relationship, then, kiss each other for the last time and part ways. As what Drayton wrote in some lines of his poem, “Since there’s no help, come let us kiss and part.” So, no matter how painful, accept it with an open

It’s a wonderful feeling when you find someone else in love with you and you don’t fall in love with the person. You should feel honored that love came, and knocked at your door but gently refused the love you can’t reciprocate or the gift you can’t accept.

Don’t ever take advantage nor cause pain.

There is parallelism in dealing with love and yourself; and all that the heart feels, the same joys and pains, even if our lives and ways are not the same. When love chooses to leave or bid goodbye, we have to let it go because it has a reason. It’s not really meant for you.

Bear in mind that you don’t choose love. Love chooses you but when it comes into your life, accept it for all its mystery. Reach out and give it away. Give it back sincerely to someone who brought it to you. Share it with those who need love and affection in any way you can.

30 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

PHOTO : STOC K.XCH NG/DS PRUIT T

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feature

Off to Switzerland, Via Singapore (Really?)

(Second of two parts-CONCLUSION)

By Detch Nonan-Mercado

A

fter a series of unfortunate events that led him to a

person, as in non-existent.

miserable life in Singapore, Boy decided he had had

enough. The heartless illegal recruiters had carted

Boy and his cousin Rose were indeed conned, big-time. Though

off all of his life savings and could not be found anywhere. They

poor and desperate, Boy could only take so much. Realizing that

disappeared into the complex woodwork of lowlife. The “lady” they

the dream to go to Switzerland could not be anything but a dream,

were supposed to meet in Singapore turned out to be a phantom

Boy ran away from the company dormitory one early morning.

32 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

feature Boy got a nasty, raw deal from his agency.

“What is your plan?” asked the pastor.

“I want to go home to my family,” Boy replied in a hushed voice, adding tearfully, “I really miss them so much!”

The pastor had to turn her face to hide her own tears. She found it hard to speak without letting Boy know she was also crying.

Pretending to be looking for something in her bag, she continued, “Ok, ano gusto mo, do you need any help?”

“Opo,” came the quick reply, followed with a whispered “I need money for my airfare.”

The pastor saw a chance to make light of the moment and jokingly said, “You want to ride an airplane with windows wide open? Your trip would be more comfortable!”

“I would take anything, ride anything, just to be able to go back to the Philippines.”

Boy could not be affected by any humor. He was too fraught with fears and too full of disappointment to catch the pastor’s joke.

He was way past laughing at anything. All he was thinking was his family. His heart was heavy with sadness. Poor Boy. He became just another unwitting Filipino worker victimized by illegal recruitment.

PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/ROLVE

Just one more figure, just one more additional digit in the list of OCW casualties.

Penniless, angry and hungry, he went back to the Christian church,

the place where he first found comfort when he was new in

STARTING ALL OVER

Singapore and in trouble.

Boy went home with mixed emotions. He did not know how to face

his debtors. He was afraid they might harm his family if he failed

The church people, who at this point in time, had already

to pay up. On the other hand, he was excited to see his wife, kids,

learned to love Boy as their own, took him back with open arms of

and relatives. A third dimension to his confusion was the fact that

love and acceptance.

he only had little money, given by his friends from the church. The

lady pastor had encouraged him to use the amount to start a small

“You are back!” the church’s lady pastor had said, surprised to

business but she was not aware Boy had already lost confidence in

see Boy.

himself. She did not know he had convinced himself he would not

be able to make any livelihood or business grow. Boy was in fact

“Yes, Ate,” Boy said, head bowed. He could not look straight into

hesitant to touch the money lest he would merely lose it. He knew

the eyes of the pastor. She had warned him about the mischief

the church gave out of its own need; it was not a big, moneyed

of some employment agencies but he had said he was willing to

church that you usually read about in the papers. So the pressure

suffer anything just so he could stay and work in Singapore. Now

to make full use of the cash gift was even greater. Boy was so scared

it seemed he had to swallow his words. The lady pastor was right.

to “waste” precious money.

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 33

feature

But torn between uncertainty and the urgent need to provide

This harmony that grew in their family ushered in more financial

for his family, Boy determined to be brave for the sake of his loved-

blessings. One day, an opportunity just presented. Out of the

ones. So he mustered all the courage he could and decided to leave

blue, a job order came to their knowledge: a husband-and-wife

his past and move on in life. Divesting himself of the spirit of failure

team was needed to take care of a home resort somewhere in the

that he had earlier willingly put on, and deliberately rejecting the

paradise islands of the Caribbean. This time around, the agency

negative thoughts – that he was good for nothing, that he will not

was a POEA-accredited, fully registered and duly legal. The fees

prosper at any job or business -- that kept on playing in his mind,

were government-prescribed, the trainings were provided free of

Boy gradually came out of his cocoon. With the cash love gift from

charge, and the visas were secured by the employers themselves.

the church, he went into buy and sell. Slowly he started to feel he

could, after all, make it. Life was still beautiful, he rediscovered.

To cut off the chase, Boy and his wife landed the job. Out of

many applicants, the opportunity was given to them. Boy could

BONDING WITH WIFE AND FAMILY

not believe it at first. As he later recounted, his head had no “space”

Before Boy left the Philippines in pursuit of the Swiss dream, he

for the huge amazement that he felt. It was unbelievable but it was

and his wife had been quite emotionally disconnected. They had

true. Indeed, nothing is impossible for those who trust God. All

marital problems, financial woes, and personal battles. Almost but

things are possible to those who believe in His power.

not really, they had wanted to give up on each other. Now, when

Boy came home from Singapore, tiny miracles began to surface.

TIME FOR EVERYTHING

They no longer fought as much as before. Boy’s absence had

Today, Boy and his wife are still enjoying their “togetherness” in

made his wife’s heart grow fonder of him. Also, the small money

that small pocket somewhere in the Caribbean. They had waited

he brought home from Singapore was growing at a steady pace;

for their Day, choosing to let go of hurts, to forgive those who

whatever product they bought and they sold easily clicked with

wronged them, and to just let life flow according to its own timing.

their market. Customers patronized whatever they offered. It

As it is written:

looked as if the touch of the Divine was upon Boy and his wife.

For everything there is a season, and

Perhaps because money was no longer a great problem, Boy

a time for every matter under heaven…

and his wife fell in love with each other again. Romantic flames

a time to weep, and a time to laugh;

were rekindled, licking up all past bitterness and sorrows. The time

a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

they spent together as business partners doubled as bonding time

a time to cast away stones, and

as lovers. As days went by, Boy and his wife became more and more

a time to gather stones together;

at peace and at ease with each other. They became more forgiving

a time to embrace, and

and more understanding. The latter part of their marriage was

a time to refrain from embracing;

happier than the former. Unity became the main character of their

a time to seek, and

family.

a time to lose; a time to keep, and

a time to cast away;

HARMONY AND MONEY

a time to tear, and a time to sew;

When families live in harmony, lack of money or the abundance

a time to keep silence, and

of it, often ceases to be an issue. After Boy and his wife mastered

a time to speak;

the art of respecting each other, financial breakthroughs

a time to love, and a time to hate;

were never difficult anymore. But even during low seasons

a time for war, and

and downtime in their buy and sell business, they remained

a time for peace …

steadfastly united. As the song goes, “through sunshine and rain”, they loved just the same.

34 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

He (God) has made everything beautiful in its time (Ecclesiastes 3: 1, 4-8, 11)

feature

He is Coming Back Again Evangeline O. Katigbak

Vangie Katigbak (Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Geography, National University of Singapore)

G

spent

to a place beyond their kingdom and

either

lived among savage humans. He made

reading or listening to

Himself of no reputation, and took upon

a familiar story of kings

Himself the form of a servant. He came

and kingdoms, prince

with a promise of hope and redemption

charming and princesses and never-ending

but was met with ridicule and barbarity.

tales of lives spent happily ever after. These

Yet His eyes were set on the fulfillment

fictitious stories never fail to capture the

of His mission. He came to human-

hearts and wonder of every wild-eyed

world knowing that the journey would

kid. But for me, there is one love story that

culminate in a gruesome murder. He

stands out. This tale was not crafted by any

knew it was His life for the lives of those

human imagination. Instead, the hand that

for whom He came. And so there, at the

made the universe authored this story that

Cross of Calvary, among men whose

continuously grips my soul and changes

morals reached supreme depravity, He

me.

suffered the most cruel and humiliating

death a man could ever experience. He

"He is coming back again." Five simple

did it once and for all. Yet lo and behold,

words, but a promise of eternity. Our hope

He rose again after three days. After

of salvation is pegged on the final leg of

which, he came back to His Father, but

this wonderful love story...

not without the promise of His return.

rowing many

up, nights

I

Once upon a time, the lovesick King

The story has not come full circle yet.

looked out of the window of His majestic

It has not yet ended. Jesus, the promised

castle. He was longing for His children

Messiah, will surely make good His promise

who, for so long, have been separated

of returning for us. It will be at the trumpet's

from Him. It was ironic that the King

call. In the twinkling of an eye, He will come

would feel this way, for He has long

back. It will be one grand gathering of those

suffered the rejection and blasphemies

who placed their hope and faith in Jesus. It

of His estranged children. Yet He waited.

will signal our return to the Kingdom from

take us to be with Him forever. To where He

Day after day. He waited for His children

where we've been lost. It will be the time to

dwells. To that place where He promised

to come to their senses and acknowledge

behold the face of our lovesick Father-King!

to wipe away all our tears. To where no sorrows exist. To where the King, our Father

that there is no place more secure than in His love. The King had another Son, His

"He is coming back again,

is. Oh, come LORD! Come our Savior King

begotten one. He summoned this Son

He is coming back again,

and Faithful Redeemer!

to a mission of bringing back the King's

He is coming back again!"

This is the gospel I know. That Jesus,

other children.

Oh, how I like singing it again and again!

the Christ, the Son of God came down

The Son, ever obedient to the will

It refreshes my soul every time I do. He will

from heaven. He died but He rose from the

of His Father, acceded. He journeyed

one day come again for you and me. He will

dead... And He is coming back again!

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 35

phuket connection

GOING ABROAD? OMG!!

Teresa Mangada-Sarmiento

T

he recent upsurge of off-loading the past few months or

way ticket, a visa from the interior ministry of Qatar, an affidavit

so by our immigration officers at NAIA to thousands of

of support from Al Mana Interiors and an invitation letter for a

Filipinos wanting to travel abroad has caused too much

business training for persons with disabilities (PWD) which he

agony for those who capitalize their hard earned or mortgage

is supposed to attend. The BI claimed that Corpuz was denied

money to buy tickets to travel for leisure, business or work in

permission because in their assessment, they found “no sufficient

foreign countries.

proof that his trip is for business considering that he is deaf and mute.” This incident reflects the state of illiteracy of the

On January 29, 2011, four travelers to UAE filed a complaint at

government officials manning NAIA. They could not even tell what

the airport complaint desk for disallowing them to travel despite

“sufficient proof” was needed to prove that he is qualified to travel.

compliance of legal requirements and supporting documents.

Corpuz being a person with disability was denied travel to attend

They also mentioned discourteous conduct of the Immigration

training for persons with disability? OMG! This is simply stupidity

Official at the NAIA. This is not an isolated case. Thousands of

if not a total lack of common sense. Moreover, this act is blatantly

Pinoy travelers were offloaded for various reasons, mostly highly

discriminatory to people with disabilities and violates Republic Act

questionable reasons. OMG!

7277 and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and trampled Corpuz’ fundamental right to travel.

On October 4, 2010, Franklin Galano Corpuz was disallowed to leave the country for his flight to Qatar despite showing legal

The term “sufficient proof” as a basis for permission to travel is an

requirements to travel such as valid Philippine passport, two-

alarming measure. What is “sufficient” to one could be insufficient or

36 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

phuket connection too much to another. This is where the power of some immigration

This information is critically disconcerting. From these data I

officers is at play. “Sufficient proof” can be used to fulfill the whims

would surmise that the figures that were offloaded from 2007 to

and caprices, the paranoia, or whatever mood or state of mind an

present would be more than 20,000 suspected human traffickers,

immigration officer has. Travelers become a pawn at the mercy of

drug mules, terrorists or as in the case of Corpuz, “insufficient

the Immigration Officer’s appraisal. The discretionary power of the

proof” travelers, right? Question, has our motherland now become

immigration officer to disallow Filipinos to travel is not only unfair,

a haven of suspected criminals? OMG!!

but is simply a disturbing power subject to abuse and misuse. In the absence of clear guidelines and implementing procedures,

What is happening to our country, President Pinoy?

the substantive intent of our fundamental right to travel freely guaranteed in the Bill of Rights, Article III, Section 6, of the 1987 Constitution must be uphold at all times. These incidents of

Phuket uPdates

thousands of offloading have made a mockery of our basic rights.

OMG!

Phuket is as vibrant as ever with its pristine beaches is warming with tourists, but it won’t be long that way as

Another misused and popular reason at the NAIA to offload

April is the start of the low season here for tourism-related

a traveler is Human Trafficking. This is relevant to the much

businesses. For Filipino musicians, low season is the start of

publicized drug related incidents involving Pinoys in China. Human

the agonizing season as most of them will be ending their

Trafficking is a crime against humanity and the government’s

contracts this month. Filipino teachers and health workers

initiative in its recent campaign to track down these criminals is

in Thailand are much more fortunate because generally

a notable program to protect its citizens, but it must NOT be used

they are hired on a yearly contract with work permits,

as an unwarranted excuse to trample the dignity and rights of the

health benefits and paid vacation leaves. Oh well, most of

Filipino travelers. It seems that anyone passing through NAIA is a

them anyway.

suspect of human trafficking, drug mules, illegal OFWs or terrorism.

Are you serious guys? OMG! What happens to our law stating that

Unofficial data suggest that the musicians were the

we are innocent until proven otherwise? To consider a person a

first Pinoys who came to work in Thailand and this sector

suspect of human trafficking, one must consider the three elements

represents the majority of Pinoys here. The Musician’s life

of human trafficking in the Persons Protocol and the constituent

here in Thailand is a story of low tide and high tide. I talked

elements of the offense as defined by Philippine laws. It must be

to most pioneer musicians here and I was captivated by

noted that the crime of human trafficking is consummated at the

the stories of their lives. Theirs is an inspiring story worth

point of destination. So there is really no human trafficking crime

sharing with our readers for the next issue of our magazine.

committed yet at NAIA, right? Have we become suspect of a crime

One thing is sure though, most of them will not go home

we have not yet committed. OMG!

for the low season but will just wait for the next high season or hiring time comes November, especially with the recent

A

news

item

from

http://www.tribuneonline.org/

metro/20100626met5.html posted on line on 06/26/2010 entitled “BI’s achievements on trafficking presented to foreign diplomats”

spate of offloading at NAIA. LOL! PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/XSASSIN

caught my interest. “According to the bureau’s records, a total of 17,946 Filipinos have been off-loaded since 2007 because of the profiling system which determines whether a Filipino passenger leaving for abroad is actually a victim of human trafficking. In 2009, 9,649 Filipino passengers were off-loaded, or more than a 100 percent increase in the number of off-loaded passengers in 2008 which is recorded at 4,731.”

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 37

mental health

Healthy Soul, Healthy Mind in Holy Week Dr. Mariglo Vicente Camero, RGC,C.C.I., D.A.A.E.T.S.

(Dr. Glow is a New York American Academy Expert on Traumatic Stress DIPLOMATE, Certified Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, and Assessment Psychologist. She is also a Professor, Licenced Counsellor, Licensed Secondary Teacher and a Sport Psychologist. She has a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Santo Tomas, and graduated Summa Cum Laude.)

W

e are all Filipinos. Nevertheless, we are

months and years, this is the best time to do so. We can always surf

also aware that we have different beliefs,

the net for spiritual quotes and go over beautiful prayers that can

practice different religions, and come from

touch our heart and mind. Be pro-active. Do some soul-searching.

different culture and tradition. We may be

what can Christian OFWs do especially during holy week when

BREATHE IN, BREATHE OUT & CALM THE MIND

you are far from your loved ones and you’re in an environment

It is always a good practice to do deep breathing; inhaling through

where most people are busy working and are not into this religious

the nose, exhale through the mouth and swallow. This relieves

tradition. Here are some of the things you can do in observance of

us from the built-up tension that we experience specifically in

the Lenten season in your own little way:

the morning, when we have to execute everything under time

in different places, different countries, but

pressure; when we go to our workplaces to keep at par with

FIND PEACE WITH OUR INNER SELF

demands from work.

First things first! In order to experience this, one must be attuned about ourselves (such as what makes us happy, our pain, and

LISTEN TO SPIRITUAL/RELIGIOUS MUSIC THAT SOOTHES OUR SOUL

incongruence of our real self with our ideal self). This is also

It could have been a while since you last paid attention to a

the opportunity when we can improve on ourselves and weigh

religious song. There are songs that can appeal to our senses; there

our spiritual strengths and weaknesses. We always put God at

are some that don’t. We can take time to listen to a religious song

the center of our life; we offer everything to Him since we owe

that we can appreciate and will have an impact to us, meaning it

everything from Him.

can move us to a good life and a better self. If we are at our best,

to any positive or negative emotion and thought we have

then it transmits as well to others.

KEEP IN TOUCH WITH OTHERS AND OUR LOVED ONES

PAY A VISIT TO THE CHURCH

It will never help if we keep on isolating ourselves and pretend that

Having a busy schedule most of the time could have led us not

we are very strong, that we are handling everything without any

being able to even drop by and recite a short prayer to God. Visiting

problem. Although it’s a good thing to be solution-focused, it’s also

the church can give us a feeling of relief and tranquility. It draws us

a wonderful feeling to unveil that we can’t always walk through

closer to God. It leads us to do more goodness to ourselves and to

the storm alone. We need help from others, so let’s bear in mind

others. Our spiritual self can be contagious.

that God and our family are our pep squad to make it through the challenges.

LIVE AT THE PRESENT MOMENT We find ourselves bothered by the past and often worried about

SEARCH FOR INSPIRING QUOTES & PRAYERS TO LIVE BY

what the future will bring. In this case, it will always be helpful to

If we have not got hold of the chance to read the Bible the past

ask ourselves: “What needs immediate attention now”?, “What am

38 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

do “thought stopping” and focus on what is happening now. Let’s

mental health

I doing now and why am I doing this”? and “What is happening to me at this moment”?.

APPRECIATE THE BEAUTY OF NATURE THAT WE SEE Have you taken time to be one with the nature and notice the

Jelly Bean Prayer Pastor Richard Schwedes North Tasmania Lutheran Parish

beauty it brings to our life? It is through nature’s richness that we feel God’s presence as much as we see God through others. If we

Grab a bag of jelly beans

take note of what is happening with our body, we can notice that

and give everyone one of each color

we are able to meditate and reflect more if we commune with

Red is for the blood Christ gave

nature.

Green is for the grass He made.

Yellow is for the light so bright.

TAKE IN SOMETHING THAT NOURISHES BODY, MIND AND SOUL

Orange is for our prayers at night.

Blue and Black are for the sins we made

Now is the chance to eat and drink something healthy, pure and

White is for the grace Christ gave.

just enough to fill up your stomach. Free yourself from the bondage

Purple is for His days of sorrow.

of consuming something that is unnatural and artificially flavored

Pink is for our new tomorrow.

with too much seasoning which can be detrimental for the health.

DO SOMETHING GOOD TODAY AND ALWAYS It always brings us positive thoughts and emotions; can prolong our life to its maximum.

PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/NOTORYCZNA

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 39

nature & nurture

Solar Plants & Living Plants: Keeping the Sadness Away Dr. Mariglo Vicente Camero, C.C.I., D.A.A.E.T.S.

(Dr. Glow is a New York American Academy Expert on Traumatic Stress DIPLOMATE, Certified Clinical Psychologist, Counselling Psychologist, and Assessment Psychologist. She is also a Professor, Licenced Counsellor, Licensed Secondary Teacher and a Sport Psychologist. She has a PhD in Clinical Psychology from the University of Santo Tomas, and graduated Summa Cum Laude.)

I

n today’s world where we

the whole house. The jellies which serve

visible on how you perceive the things that

are surrounded by techy

as “soil” and accent for the fortune plant

are happening to you. Bonsai plants, which

gadgets

anything

can elicit positive mood and at the same

stem from the mixed artistry of Chinese

digital, here come “wonder”

time drive your “blues” away. These jellies

and Japanese culture, pertain to miniature

plants! You can have them

are said to be “magical” in such ways that

trees grown in containers.

either in living or non-living form. During

it appear in different, bright fun colors like

daytime or when you have strong lighting

pink, red, aqua blue, green, purple, yellow

All of these plants, whether living or

in your place, having a solar powered plant

and others. It guarantees to keep your

not, bring energy and give vibrancy to our

keeps the sadness away. We all know how

feeling of homesickness away and these

lives. They beautify our surroundings and

being far from loved ones affect our state of

living plants absorb any negative energy

keep us close to nature. Having plants in

mind and heart, but these floppy artificial

and other unpleasant odors in your place.

our immediate surroundings do not only

plants can help you cheer up and at the

This can also be good in lowering your

promote good health but also show our

same time makes you eco-friendly since

blood pressure, keeps you feel relaxed

way of preserving our environment. We

these plants need no batteries for them

which can be good for your physiological

take care of ourselves and we take care of

to function. If you still don’t have it now,

well-being.

nature, too!

and

Fortune actually becomes

why not try getting one for yourself and would also be a beautiful gift for friends, kids, people from all walks of life and other OFWs who feel lonely because of odd times. It’s really a phenomenon especially to our OFWs who are saving for the rainy days. Decorate your room or even put on your office desk to lighten up your day. Out of creativity, they also appear in different varieties like characters and animals.

What if it’s night or you don’t like the idea of seeing bright light in your place? If you are really into nature and you have not yet realized that you are a nature lover until you have read this article, well, you might want to acquire for yourself fortune and bonsai plant which also come in different selections and are very economical, earth friendly décor for your room, toilet, or to 40 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

PHOTO: STOCK.XCHNG/IRED

feature

L-R: BAGONG BAYANI PuBLIsheR, Ms. MARY JANe sALOMON, PhILIPPINe OveRseAs LABOR OffIce LABOR AttAche AttY ROdOLfO sABuLAO; sINGAPORe INstItute Of ARchItects hONORARY secRetARY MR. WILLIAM LAu; PhILIPPINe AMBAssAdOR tO sINGAPORe heR exceLLeNcY MINdA cALAGuIAN-cRuz; uNYON NG MGA ARkItektO NG PILIPINAs sINGAPORe chAPteR vP PROGRAMs ANd deveLOPMeNt ARch. RYchIe ANdRes,uAP PhILIPPINe eMBAssY - thIRd secRetARY ANd vIce cONsuL MR. Jed MARtIN LLONA, shucO INteRNAtIONAL kG PROJect MANAGeR MR. vOLkeR GehL (eveNt sPONsOR); uNYON NG MGA ARkItektO NG PILIPINAs sINGAPORe chAPteR tReAsuReR ARch. MARk PhILIP GABRIeL,uAP ANd shucO INteRNAtIONAL kG MARketING MANAGeR MR. YONG hWee WeN (eveNt sPONsOR)

UAP(S) - Celebrating a Moment of Gratitude for a Year of Blessings

by Kristina patricia perez, UAP

(Kristina Perez, born and raised in Manila, has considered Singapore her second home for almost three years.

She is an alumnus of UST-CAFA and is currently the Director for Professional Practice of UAP-Singapore.)

Baptism of fire

(successful member participation amidst the culture of overtime

A thanksgiving dinner hosted by the Unyon ng mga Arkitekto ng

work and unpredictable work schedule).

Pilipinas was a much-anticipated event held at the Metropolitan YMCA last March 25, 2011. FY 2010 - 2011 was a year of major

Let us backtrack to May of 2009 when a group of eleven

accomplishments, and truly UAP(S) has a lot to be thankful for.

passionate individuals held an informal assembly, having a common

Unyon ng mga Arkitekto ng Pilipinas, better known as UAP(S), has

objective to form a professional organization for Filipino Architects

experienced its baptism of fire in 2010, where firsts were made

in Singapore. From the initial eleven, who basically founded the

possible (Chartering of the UAPs Graduate Auxiliary—the first

group, interest quickly spread and attracted thirty more Filipino

foreign graduate auxiliary chapter) and challenges were overcome

architects who duly signed the proposal, “The Creation of United

42 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

feature Architects of the Philippines, Singapore Chapter”. The rest, as they

that has welcomed us in its shores. Mabuhay ang Arkitektong

say, is history.

Pilipino!

To be chartered by the United Architect of the Philippines

highlights oF the FY 2010 -2011

National Board was, of course, first in the agenda. Another item

General Membership Meetings/ Chapter Activities

high up in the list of priorities was to seek acceptance in the

•

3 Sept 2010 – 1st GMM

Registry of Societies, which when granted, will enable UAP(S) to be

•

25 Oct 2010 – 2nd GMM/ Chartering of UAPGA / Induction

a lawful society in Singapore. In other words it was the license to enjoy the freedom to assemble and conduct activities publicly, as

of Officers •

25 March 2011 - 3rd GMM/ ROS Thanksgiving Dinner

long as it conforms to Singapore laws.

Collaboration of UAP(S) with UAP National and Singapore Institute

When it rains, it pours On February 16, 2011, the status of UAP(S) to become a duly

of Architects •

FY 2010-2011 General Officers Election & Meeting with UAP Immediate Past National President Arch. Ana M. Ling

recognized society has been brought into fruition by the approval for the application granted by the Singapore Registry of Societies

•

UAP(S) – SIA Collaborative Talks

(ROS). This was the highlight of the thanksgiving dinner, concluding

•

UAP(S) Graduate Auxiliary Election of Officers

the two-year wait that witnessed changes in the leadership, by-

•

UAP National President Singapore Tour

laws, logo, and even the official name of the organization. Yes, it

•

UAP District B1 Balangkasan 2010 “Berde na ba ang dugo mo?”

was sweet and momentous. The ROS approval, after all, signifies not only recognition in the ranks of Singapore’s legal societies but

•

Participation at GAM Meeting @ UAP HQ

gave UAP(S) the distinction of being the first foreign architectural organization in Singapore to be bestowed such recognition.

Fast ForWard

Workshops / Seminars •

3D Max Tutorials

•

The Business of Architecture Seminar by Arch. Mike Guerrero

Only on its second year, UAP(S), with a one hundred-strong membership base, is steadily forging ahead—led by individuals

•

Leadership Training Seminar (Leadership for Everyone)

whose diverse talents, knowledge, and background make a

•

Basic Photography Workshop

formidable combination to pursue greater goals and whose foundation was carefully laid and strengthened by the pioneers of

Fun Get-Togethers

the group. The thrusts of UAP(S) are propelled by the philosophy

•

Annual Dinner/ First Anniversary Dinner

“Service with UNITY, INTEGRITY & PRIDE” and the group’s vision

•

Paskong Pinoy Christmas Party

of becoming an icon and forerunner of global service for the

•

Badminton Sessions

Filipino Architect.

•

Basketball Fellowship Games with DP Architects

One such endeavour that the group is currently working on,

Programs and Competitions

in cooperation with the Philippine Embassy, is the Architecture

•

PRC Renewal Assistance Program

Licensure Exam in Singapore. UAP(S) is pushing for the realization

•

Participation to DAtE Competition

of this proposal, and the Graduate Auxiliary is drumming up efforts

•

2010 Shirt Design Contest

to gather the numbers for this proposal to be feasible.

May this feat become a trailblazer in uniting not only professionals but also the entire Filipino community in this country

* Add us up on Facebook! Uap Singapore Chapter or email us at uap_ singapore@yahoo.com.sg

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 43

ofw connections

Friendship

By Diana Jeane

(Diana Mendiola is a 17 year-old girl currently studying in Whiley Secondary School.

She is the eldest of four (4) children, one (1)sister and two (2) brothers.)

F

riendship seems like a general

we just want to have fun.

topic to talk about; but once you come to think of it, friendship can

Then, we walk on to live where we

be mind-wondering and it may take you

grow as ladies and gentlemen, entering

hours just to discover the interpretations

the complex world that is prepared for

of friendship. What is friendship anyway? In

us. Of course, there are adjustments and

Wikipedia, friendship is defined as a form of

changes, and here is when our friends hold

interpersonal relationship. Even Wikipedia

our hand and take the tedious road with

agrees with me when I say that friendship

us. We inculcate and discover new events

comes in various definitions. But what is

together and see another person’s point

friendship to me?

of view, which you may come to realize, will be a great help in life. As we fall back

As our life advances, we meet different

from time to time, our friends are those

kinds of people who may become our

who give (not lend) a helping hand when

lifetime or short time friends. Some of us

we most need it. Sometimes, I imagine how

may have childhood friends, the ones you

it will be like for me and my friends when

share the toys with or rather fight toys with.

I grow up. Will we still be together? Will

Some of us grow up with these people, stay

my friends be there as we graduate from

in contact with them, or maybe they’re just

different academies? Will they be the ones

a figment of our memories. We stumble

to witness how I find my Romeo, or will I

upon new friends as we go through our

be the one to see them fall in love? Will we

adolescence, where I currently stand.

still go shopping together despite our age and probably busy schedules? Would it not

TOP TO BOTTOM: My friends and i On a schOOl TriP TO vieTnaM; BrOTher and i; i have nOT asked My MOM weTher This PicTure shOuld Be PuBlished; Befriended her during a saMPan ride aT vieTnaM . she rOwed The BOaT fOr Me.

My BFF and I spend a lot of time

feel good if they witness all the important

together, mainly because we are in the

events in my life? Friends: they are like our

same school, class, have common interests,

personal diaries; no need of a paper and

our friends could be our parents, siblings,

and so on . Being a student, my friends and I

a pen to inscribe all the happenings, but

your husband, and your child. They may

help each other in our studies and support

they watch you unfold as a person, as we

not be the best among the very best,

one another whenever we go through an

build our lives together. As we grow old, we

but they should be considered as the

emotional roller coaster, which happens

could have encountered an intermixture of

most important ones, because they are

more and more frequently as teenagers like

friends. They will be the ones to say, “Hey,

the ones who knew you from younger

me grow up. My friends can relate to me as

remember that time when we . . . ” and

years, or maybe at least half of your life;

we are from the same age group, and we

laugh as we reminisce the times together.

therefore, they will probably know you best

know that we can trust one another. Like

. Friends are most obvious in school or at

little girls, we still share secrets about boys,

Friends are found everywhere; yes,

your workplace. They are our colleagues,

gossip a little bit here and there, and as girls

you can never hide from them. At home,

classmates, teachers, or even your hated

44 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

ofw connections person in the office. Aren’t they the ones

journey of life with them is much more

who give you staples when your stapler

thrilling than a roller coaster ride, and our

Friendship is a priceless gift

runs out of staples, or leave the closing lift

fights may be more aggressive than drama

That can't be bought or sold,

open for you whenever you’re running to

on television. Yes, having a friend may have

But its value is far greater

it? However, friends may not be so obvious

its disadvantages, but do they outnumber

Than a mountain made of gold.

to us when we are in the community. Our

the advantages of having him or her in your

For gold is cold and lifeless,

friends can start from the friendly bus

life? If yes, you might want to consider that

It cannot see nor hear,

driver, the aunt who served you at your

friend of yours. Friendship is something

And in your times of trouble,

favourite hawker centre, or even strangers

that we definitely should not take for

It is powerless to cheer.

who help you pick up your coins whenever

granted although we do take advantage

It has no ears to listen,

you unconsciously drop them. For this

of them unknowingly. Friends show that

No heart to understand.

generation, friends can emerge from

in this small world of ours, when we are

It cannot bring you comfort

Facebook or open chats. They can even be

emotionally down and physically broken,

or reach out a helping hand.

from other countries. My family and I travel

somebody out there still cares.

So when you ask God for a gift, Be thankful that He sends,

frequently as tourists; although people

In a nutshell, I would like to conclude

from another country may seem different,

with a simple poem that I used to recite

Not diamonds, pearls, or riches,

there might be enough interest to befriend

when I was in primary 2, in front of my

But the love of a real, true friend

him or her.

whole school, and with the help of my

Finding

a

friend

is

much

more

mom. It meant little to me then, but

The Gift of Friendship

reflecting on friendship leads me to find

Helen Steiner Rice

Hortaliza

tantalizing than a love story; sharing a

the real interpretation behind this poem.

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APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 45

snapshots

Photos by kinvac gardening & agrotech Pte ltd

46 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011

snapshots

Josh soriano

aLwin EsPiriTU

Erwin Lazaro

APRIL 2011 Bagong Bayani 47

snapshots

Pacifico Jose Jr.

Bhong e. odal

Van calingasan

48 Bagong Bayani APRIL 2011