Philippine Canadian Inquirer Issue #150

RELEVANT SKILLS. MEANINGFUL JOBS. CANADA’S FIRST AND ONLY NATIONWIDE FILIPINO-CANADIAN NEWSPAPER www.canadianinquirer.net

VOL. 1 NO. 150

JANUARY 16, 2015

310.HIRE (4473) SPROTTSHAW.COM

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Papal Visit Schedule

Popemobile to be used in Tacloban

Previous Papal Visits in a Nutshell

Selfie sticks: the death of interaction

Donnie Nietes is longest reigning champ

25,000 soldiers, cops to secure Pope Francis

THE POPE IS COMING

BY NIKKO DIZON AND JULIE M. AURELIO Philippine Daily Inquirer

The Philippine Postal Corp. joins the nation in welcoming His Holiness Pope Francis with the issuance of the "block of four" Pope Francis visit to the Philippines commemorative stamps. A full preview of the papal visit can be found in this issue.

MARVIE A. LLOREN / PNA

Vatican: Philippines is the hope of the Church in Asia

BY LITO B. ZULUETA Philippine Daily Inquirer VATICAN CITY—When he arrives in the Philippines this week, Pope Francis will be landing in a country viewed by the Vatican as “the hope of the Church” in Asia.

The Holy See is confident that the

papal visit to Asia’s biggest Catholic nation, as well as to Sri Lanka, will take place without any major problem.

“Both are countries with a tradition of papal visits in the past,” said Fr. Federico Lombardi, SJ, director of the Holy See Press Office.

The two countries have hosted papal

❱❱ PAGE 11 25,000 soldiers

Philippine Canadian Inquirer

m info@canadianinquirer.net sales@canadianinquirer.net A (888) 668-6059

The Pope of Firsts ❱❱ PAGE 22

❱❱ PAGE 6 Vatican: Philippines

ROMBLON, ROMBLON—President Aquino this week said the government had taken into account the lessons from past papal visits as it put together measures to ensure Pope Francis would have an “orderly and peaceful” visit in the Philippines.

Mr. Aquino said Malacañang would release “very instructive” videos and photos of previous papal visits to encourage the public to do their part in keeping Francis safe.

He said one of the “most dramatic photos” to be shown would be the visit of John Paul II in 1995, where Manila’s Rizal Park was fully packed.

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FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

President Aquino appeals for cooperation to ensure safety and success of Papal visit

BY LESLIE D. VENZON Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday called on all Filipinos to fully cooperate with the government’s measures for ensuring the safety and security of Pope Francis during his visit to the country this week.

“Ang mismong karangalan ng ating bansa malalagay sa alanganin. Ang tanong ko nga po: Gusto ba nating matala sa kasaysayan na nangyayari sa Pilipinas ang isang trahedya na may kinalaman sa Santo Papa? Obligasyon ng gobyerno ang inyong kaligtasan at para magampanan ang tungkuling ito ay may obligasyon din kayo (Our country's honor will be at stake. My question is this: do we want our history

to include a tragedy involving a Pope? It is the government’s obligation to maintain safety and the people also have to play their part for this to be successful),” President Aquino said in his message for the Pope’s visit from Jan. 15 to 19.

The President said Filipinos should unite and cooperate to make the Papal visit “meaningful.”

“Ipakita po natin ang pakikisama at pagtutulungan ng matiyak nating magiging mataimtim at mapayapa ang pagbisita ni Pope Francis sa ating bansa (We will show our unity and camaraderie in order to ensure a solemn and peaceful visit for Pope Francis),” he said.

The Chief Executive said turmoil is possible in big gatherings even there are no threats of terrorism. This also puts the

safety of the devotees at risk.

“Tandaan lang po natin pastoral visit ito at layon ng Santo Papa na makahalubilo ang pinakamarami sa ating mga kababayan. Ang bawat pagtatagpo ay nagdadala ng panganib. Ang gusto natin bawasan ang panganib sa buhay ng Santo Papa at balansehin ang seguridad ni Pope Francis at ng kanyang hangarin (Let us remember that this is a pastoral visit and the goal of the Pope is to meet the Filipino people. With every meeting, there is a risk taken.

What we want to do is to lessen this and balance the security for Pope Francis and his goals),” he added.

The President said concerned government agencies will issue important reminders on security procedures in the coming days. ■

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Palace: Philippines will conform to reasonable budget set for Papal visit PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY MANILA — Malacanang on Tuesday assured that the government will conform to reasonable budget set for Pope Francis’ visit to the country this week.

“Siyempre po kinakailangan po tayong tumalima sa mga itinakda ng Mahal na Santo Papa (Of course we have to conform to what was said by the Pope),” said Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. in a Palace press briefing.

Coloma said concerned government agencies are collecting data pertaining to Papal visit budget.

“At tulad ng ating nabanggit

noong nakaraan, hindi naman ito lalayo sa makatwiran at resonableng antas ng paggugol na sinusunod sa tuwing may dadalaw na katulad ng Mahal na Santo Papa (Like what was said before, [our budget is] not far off from a reasonable and justifiable amount for a visit of this scale, like of the Holy Pope),” he said.

The PCOO chief also assured transparency in the budget for the Papal visit.

“Wala po tayong sasayanging pagkakataon na ibunyag ito kapag nakuha na ang datos na kailangan sapagkat transparent naman po ang ating pamahalaan (We will not waste time in preparing the data gathered, for our government is transparent),” he added. ■

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Philippine News

Coloma assures that preparations and security are in place for the Papal visit

BY FERDINAND G. PATINO Philippine News Agency MANILA — Four days before the historic event unfolds, the government assured that preparations as well as security during the four-day Apostolic and State Visit of Pope Francis in the country are in place.

“The assurance on the part of the government from P-Noy (President Benigno Aquino III) and agencies involved in the preparations for the Papal Visit na ginagawa at gagawin pa para sa pagdalaw ng Santo Papa. Walang isa-alang-alang, walang detalyeng hindi pinapansin, lalo na sa aspect ng security at kaayusan (undertaken and will be implemented for the Papal visit. There will be nothing compromised, no detail left unnoticed, especially in the aspect of security and order),” said Presidential Communication Operations Office (PCOO) Secretary Herminio Coloma Jr. during the press briefing for the Papal visit on Monday in Manila.

Coloma appealed to all Filipinos particularly those who will attend the activities of the Holy Father to keep calm and follow the instructions of authorities.

“Importante mahinahon tayo even the slightest commotion can lead to a stampede kaya meron po appeal ang President na maging mahinahon at sumunod sa designated marshals and police (It is important that we remain calm for even the slightest com-

motion can lead to a stampede.

That is why the President appealed that we remain calm and follow the designated marshals and police),” he said.

For his part, Bataan Bishop Ruperto Santoc, chairman of the Committee on Transportation, said the vehicles that will be used by Pope Francis are likewise ready.

“Tayo ay handa na at labis na naghahanda… handa na ang mga sasakyan. Secured na nasa pamahalaan at ito ay ating gagamitin sa Manila at Tacloban (We are now ready... the vehicles to be used are ready as well. They have been secured by the government and will be used in Manila and Tacloban),” he said.

There will be three "popemobiles" — the two will be used during the Pope’s activities in Manila and Leyte, while the other one will be used as back up vehicle.

Meanwhile, Msgr. Pedro Quitorio, head of the Media Accreditation, said that over 4,000 media persons have applied for accreditation for the Papal visit coverage.

“As of yesterday, a total of 4,622 members of the media have applied for accreditation.

All that applied are accredited,” he said.

Quitorio added that they will also release a 50-page media handbook for the instructions on the Papal coverage.

The handbook can also be downloaded from the papalvisitph website. ■

JANUARY 16, 2015

FRIDAY

APOSTOLIC TRIP OF HIS HOLINESS, POPE FRANCIS, TO THE PHILIPPINES 15-19 January 2015 THURSDAY 15 JANUARY 2015

17:45 Arrival at Villamor Air Base in Manila FRIDAY 16 JANUARY 2015

09:15

10:15

11:15

WELCOME CEREMONY at the Malacañan Palace

MEETING WITH THE AUTHORITIES and the DIPLOMATIC CORPS at the Rizal Ceremonial Hall of the Presidential Palace

HOLY MASS with the bishops, priests, women and men religious at the Cathedral – Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Manila

COURTESY VISIT TO THE PRESIDENT

17:30 MEETING with the FAMILIES at the Mall of Asia Arena in Manila SATURDAY 17 JANUARY 2015

08:15

09:30

10:00

Departure by plane from Manila for Tacloban

Arrival at the airport of Tacloban

HOLY MASS near Tacloban International Airport

12:45

15:00

15:30

Lunch with some of the survivors of typhoon Yolanda at the Archbishop’s Residence in Palo

Blessing of the Pope Francis Center for the Poor

MEETING with the Priests, Women and Men Religious, Seminarians and Families of the Survivors at the Cathedral of Palo

17:00

18:15

Departure by plane for Manila

Arrival at Villamor Air Base in Manila SUNDAY 18 JANUARY 2015

09:45

10:30

15:30

Brief Meeting with the Religious Leaders of the Philippines at the Pontifical University of Santo Tomas in Manila

MEETING WITH THE YOUTH at the Sports Field of the University

HOLY MASS at Rizal Park in Manila

MONDAY 19 JANUARY 2015

NCRPO Deputy Regional Director for Operation Chief Supt. Allen Bantolo (3rd from right) walks thru the Quirino Grandstand on Monday (Jan. 12) where Pope Francis will be holding Holy Mass during his visit to the Philippines.

09:45

10:00

17:40

Leave Taking Ceremony at the Presidential Pavilion of Villamor Air Base in Manila

Departure by plane from Manila for Rome

Arrival at the airport of Rome/Ciampino

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

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Philippine News

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

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Cash, checks traced from Janet to Jinggoy Documents identify ‘conduits’ to senator

BY NANCY C. CARVAJAL AND MARLON RAMOS Philippine Daily Inquirer SEN. JINGGOY Estrada, detained on plunder charges, allegedly received kickbacks, coursed through bank dummies in cash and checks totaling more than P150 million over six years, from his pork barrel allocations, official documents made available to the INQUIRER revealed.

The documents showed the money came from Janet LimNapoles, the alleged mastermind of a multibillion-peso scam involving the siphoning off of congressional Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF) meant for the poor to ghost projects of her bogus nongovernment organizations (NGOs).

The papers stressed that there were no “direct transfers of funds” to Estrada from the Metrobank accounts of either Napoles or the NGOs—Social Development Program for Farmers Foundation Inc. (SDFFI), Agri-Economic Program for Farmers Foundation Inc. (AEPFFI) and Masaganang Ani para sa Magsasaka Foundation Inc. (Mamfi).

However, the documents “identified significant check deposits or transactions” from Napoles or the NGOs to Estrada’s “conduits” and subsequently these amounts were traced to the senator’s own accounts in eight banks.

The papers showed that commissions, kickbacks or bribes in cash totaling P156 million first showed up in Estrada’s bank accounts on Sept. 21, 2007.

The cash deposits—and one fund transfer—continued until March, 24, 2010. From then on, check deposits totaling P116.6 million were recorded in the documents until July 26, 2012.

The check deposits ranged from P1 million to P10 million.

The documents covered results of a government investigation into Estrada’s financial transactions with Napoles and her NGOs. The papers constitute part of the evidence to be submitted at the resumption of the hearing on Estrada’s bail petition today at the Sandiganbayan after the

the name of his former aide, Pauline Labayen, as the recipients of the money. Labayen has remained at large after the Sandiganbayan approved her indictment for plunder, a nonbailable offense.

Damning evidence

Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, detained on plunder charges, allegedly received kickbacks, coursed through bank dummies in cash and checks totaling more than P150 million over six years, from his pork barrel allocations, official documents made available to the INQUIRER revealed.

SENATE.GOV.PH

full court rejected an offer by its steel roofing in San Juan City, lected the senator’s kickbacks, three-member Fifth Division where the senator previously but one of the justices warned to inhibit themselves from the served as mayor. that his claims were “hearsay.” case. The magistrates had cited Yengco was previously city According to the documents, political pressure for offering administrator of San Juan and the money deposited in the acto step aside, according to court later Senate director. He now counts of Estrada’s conduits sources. heads the General Services Of- came from the Metrobank acEstrada, along with Sena- fice in Manila whose mayor counts of SDFFI, AEPFFI and tors Juan Ponce Enrile and is the senator’s father, former Mamfi. Interestingly, AEPFFI Ramon Revilla Jr., has been President Joseph Estrada. was not included in the list of charged with plunder in conBenhur Luy, a former Na- NGOs that supposedly received nection with the alleged diver- poles finance officer, earlier portions of the senator’s PDAF. sion of his PDAF The evidence allocations to showed that the bogus NGOs, funds from the ghost projects NGOs were deOut of the P156 million alleged and kickbacks posited in four in schemes purto be received by (Estrada) . . . bank accounts portedly engiapproximately P70 million were owned by Naneered by Naalleged to be paid in cash and P86 poles and her poles. All four million were received. company, JLN are under detenCorp. tion and are unThe money dergoing trial. from Napoles’ Nine alleged dummies were testified in the bail hearings of and JLN’s accounts were then named in the papers, but most Estrada that in at least three transferred to six Metrobank of the checks from Napoles and transactions in 2010, Napoles accounts and to a Chinabank the three NGOs were mainly handed out cash and checks account under Ng’s name. deposited in the accounts of amounting to more than P60 Yenko’s Chinabank account Juan Ng and Francis Yengco. million to Ng purportedly in- was also used as a conduit in tended for Estrada. the elaborate fund transfers, ‘Conduits’ known to Estradas Luy, the primary whistle- according to the documents.

Estrada has admitted know- blower in the plunder case, preThe documents identified ing Ng. He described Ng as a re- viously told the court that Ng seven bank accounts owned by spected businessman trading in was one of the people who col- Estrada and another one under www.canadianinquirer.net

In what could be the most damning evidence that could pin down Estrada, the documents showed that he received most of his alleged kickbacks in checks.

“Out of the P156 million alleged to be received by (Estrada) as kickbacks or commissions from the PDAF scam, approximately P70 million were alleged to be paid in cash and P86 million were received in checks,” one document said.

But a computation of the amounts listed on the documents showed that at least P116.625 million were transferred to Estrada’s accounts though check deposits.

The documents said while “there are no direct transfer of funds from the NGOs to (Estrada) or from (Napoles) accounts to (Estrada),” the investigation showed “significant check deposits or transactions from NGOs or (Napoles) to (Estrada’s) conduits and from (Estrada’s) conduits” to the senator’s own bank accounts.

Estrada has been detained at the Philippine National Police Custodial Center at Camp Crame since June last year after he was indicted in the Sandiganbayan for plunder and graft for allegedly pocketing P183.7 million of his PDAF allotments.

Velarde account

During the trial of the elder Estrada for plunder, government witnesses said the ousted President deposited hundreds of million of pesos in the socalled Velarde account and even signed as “Jose Velarde” in official bank documents.

But businessman Jaime Dichaves, a close friend of the former president, claimed ownership of the controversial bank account.

Joseph Estrada was convicted of plunder, but he was pardoned by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo. He was elected mayor of Manila in 2013. ■

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FRIDAY

Vatican: Philippines... visits before.

Blessed Paul VI visited the Philippines in 1970. St. Pope John Paul II also visited the Philippines in 1981 and both Sri Lanka and the Philippines in 1995.

During his 1995 trip, John Paul II spoke at the World Youth Day meeting in Manila.

In a short talk with the INQUIRER, Lombardi called the Philippines “the hope of Asia, the hope of the Church.” ❰❰ 1

Expert in papal visits

The Jesuit spokesperson said the Philippines should not find it hard hosting Francis’ visit— his second in Asia after South Korea last August—since it was “an expert in papal visits.”

During his press briefing, Lombardi said another purpose of the Pope’s visit was to provide comfort to survivors and families of the victims of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” (international name: Haiyan) in the Philippines.

Accompanying the Pope in his trip will be Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state; Cardinal Fernando

Filoni, prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples and a former apostolic nuncio to the Philippines; and Cardinal Robert Sarah, president of the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, the Vatican charity agency that funded the setting up of the Pope Francis Center for the Poor in Tacloban City, which the Pope himself will inaugurate next week.

Typhoon victims

Lombardi said that along with the inauguration, the Pope will meet with 30 typhoon victims.

Lombardi added that the Pope would conduct interreligious dialogues in Colombo and Manila.

In Sri Lanka, Buddhism is the majority religion with more than 70 percent of the population being Buddhists, followed

by Hinduism (1213 percent) and Islam (10 percent). Christianity is a minority religion with 7 percent of the population.

Lombardi said a local Buddhist monk would also address the Pope during the meeting.

In Manila, an interreligious

With a photo of smiling and waving Pope Francis as background, a young woman takes selfie before the start of the procession of the replicas of the Black Nazarene through the streets of Quiapo last week.

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

dialogue will be held at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) before the Pope gives his traditional address to the youth at the UST football field.

The Jesuit spokesperson said previous popes had visited UST before and were greeted by a

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“manifestation of enthusiasm.”

He called the Dominican-run university a “fundamentally important cultural institution.”

Lombardi said the Pope’s decision to return to Asia in less than six months should underscore the importance the pa-

pacy placed in “the great continent.”

He noted that Pope Benedict XVI was not able to make a trip to Asia so it was important for his successor to “recover a sense of the papal presence” in the continent. ■

Philippine News

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President Aquino: Philippines coordinating with allies to prevent terror threats during Papal visit PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY

Thousands of policemen from all over the country gather at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) Complex along Roxas Blvd. while waiting for the start of the dry run of the papal convoy from Villamor Air Base in Pasay City to the Apostolic Nunciature on Taft Ave. in Manila on Monday.

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

Palace to politicians using Papal visit for political gain: Find another time for grandstanding PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY MANILA — The Palace on Tuesday told politicians who plan to use the apostolic visit of Pope Francis for grandstanding purposes, to find another occasion to do so.

In a press briefing in Malacañang, Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr. said the focus of the visit should be on the Pope and no one else.

“Mainam po na sa pagdalaw ng Santo Papa ang pangunahing pokus, ang sentral na atensyon ay matutuon mismo sa Mahal na Santo Papa at ‘yung ibang mga naghahangad na maging prominente din ang pagkakilala sa kanila, mas mainam siguro na pumili na lang sila ng ibang okasyon (It is better to focus and give attention to the Pope during his visit and those who seek to use this opportunity for publicity to pick another occasion),” he said when asked if the Palace has any message to politicians who intend to use the Papal visit for their political gain.

Pope Francis is scheduled to visit Manila and Tacloban City, Leyte from Thursday to Monday. The Pontiff is currently in Sri Lanka the first leg of his two-country Asian tour.

Meanwhile, Coloma said the Palace is still gathering data to determine the total expenditure for the Papal visit.

“Hanggang sa ngayon ay kinakalap pa ‘yung mga datos.

Pansinin natin na maraming ahensiya ng pamahalaan ang involved dito (We are still in the process of liquidating the date.

There are a lot of agencies involved),” he explained, noting that some of the preparations being made, such as road repair, are part of the agencies’ regular expenses.

“At tulad ng ating nabanggit noong nakaraan, hindi naman ito lalayo sa makatwiran at resonableng antas ng paggugol na sinusunod sa tuwing may dadalaw na katulad ng Mahal na Santo Papa (And as was mentioned, it is a reasonable and justified amount spent on an occasion where we will be visited by someone like the Holy Pope),” he said. ■

MANILA — President Benigno S. Aquino III on Monday said the Philippines is closely coordinating with allies from other countries, including ASEAN, to prevent terror threats when Pope Francis visits the country this week. “...We are maximizing all of these efforts and we’re touching base with so many allies to

try and see, parang identify any threat whatsoever coming from any direction,” he said in a media interview.

President Aquino said the country is collaborating with various mechanisms and organizations which it belongs, such as Interpol, in tracking watch lists of people who have flocked to Syria and Iraq to join Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS).

“Tapos (Also), ASEAN brother states that have some of their citizens suspected of wanting

to join IS(IS). Plus we have our own ongoing operations to deal with our own domestic terrorist threats,” he said.

The President said the tight security to be provided for the Pope is comparable to those for the various heads of governments and states who will come to the country this year for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit.

Pope Francis is scheduled to visit the country on Jan. 15 to 19. ■

Papal activities in UST are open to the public, rector says PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY MANILA — The activities of Pope Francis during his visit to the University of Santo Tomas (UST) on Jan.18 will be “open to the public at designated areas in the campus,” Fr. Herminio Dagohoy, O.P., rector of the Pontifical University, said in a statement Tuesday.

Fr. Dagohoy clarified that no tickets would be sold or distributed for the Pope’s UST visit and the public can enter the UST campus in Sampaloc, Manila through designated gates.

Castillas St.; and the stretch 10:30 a.m., there will be an enThe gates assigned for the of P. Noval from Dapitan St. to thronement of the Holy Cross public are 10 and 11 which will Espana Blvd. and a liturgical celebration open at 4 a.m.

Meanwhile, Associate Prof. that will include responsorial Youth delegates who are par- Giovanna Fontanilla, director psalms and gospel reading. ticipants in the Encounter with of the UST Office of Public AfIt will be followed by testithe Holy Father will occupy the fairs, said that there will be a monies from three youth repFootball Field resentatives — and Gates 5 and an out-of-school 6 have been desyouth, a college ignated for them. student, and a Member of the No tickets would be sold or typhoon “YolanThomasian comdistributed for the Pope’s UST visit da” relief volunmunity who are and the public can enter the UST teer. very much welcampus in Sampaloc, Manila Afterward, come may enter through designated gates.

Pope Francis will the designated deliver a mesGates 1, 2, 3 and sage to the young 14. people.

The following streets are pre-program for the youth as At least seven young people closed to vehicular traffic:From early as 6:30 a.m., which will will lead prayers and intercesWelcome Rotonda to Morayta include the praying of the Holy sions, which will be said in difSt; from Dimasalang to Nagtah- Rosary and practicing of songs ferent dialects. an Bridge; from Dapitan Sports and cheers for the Pope.

Pope Francis will also lead Complex to Lacson St.; from When Pope Francis arrives at the Angelus to cap the event in the stretch of Piy Margal to Dos the UST Grandstand at around UST. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

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JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

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Pope visit sets stage for encyclical

BY MICHAEL LIM UBAC Philippine Daily Inquirer

action on climate change.

Influencing climate talks

WHEN POPE Francis visits Tacloban City in Leyte province on Jan. 17, he is embarking on a mission with more farreaching significance and impact than expressing the Church’s compassion for victims of natural disasters.

He will share a meal with 30 survivors of the 2013 earthquake in Bohol province and of Supertyphoon “Yolanda” (international name: Haiyan) in nearby Palo town, but that is only one step in a series of activities planned to spur nations to act collectively to ease the impact of climate change, whose victims are almost always the poor.

After his visit to the Philippines, the Pope is expected to release an encyclical on climate change urging the world’s 1.2 billion Catholics to take action on moral and scientific grounds.

The lengthy statement will be sent to the Catholic world’s 5,000 bishops and 400,000 priests, who will distribute it to parishioners.

The exact date of the release of the encyclical is not yet known, but The Associated Press expects it to come as early as this spring following the Pope’s visit to Tacloban, ground zero for Yolanda, history’s most destructive storm, while The Guardian of London sees it coming later this year, in time for the United Nations climate talks in Paris.

Before that, however, Pope Francis will address the UN General Assembly in September and call a summit of the world’s main religions to urge collective

Speaking at a meeting of Cafod, the Catholic development agency, in London in December last year, Bishop Marcelo Sorondo, chancellor of the Vatican’s Pontifical Academy of Sciences, said the series of papal activities was aimed at directly influencing this year’s UN climate meeting in Paris, when countries would try to conclude 20 years of fraught negotiations with a universal commitment to reduce carbon emissions.

“Our academics supported the Pope’s initiative to influence next year’s crucial decisions,” Sorondo told Cafod, according to The Guardian’s report on the meeting, “Pope Francis’ edict on climate change will anger deniers and US churches” published last Dec. 27 (http:// www.theguardian.com/world/2014/dec /27/pope-francis-edict-climatechangeus-rightwing).

“The idea is to convene a meeting with leaders of the main religions to make all people aware of the state of our climate and the tragedy of social exclusion,” Sorondo said.

“The anticipation around Pope Francis’ forthcoming encyclical is unprecedented,” said Neil Thorns, head of advocacy at Cafod. “We have seen thousands of our supporters commit to making sure their MPs (members of parliament) know climate change is affecting the poorest communities.”

With his visit to Tacloban, Francis sets the stage for the release of his first encyclical, although leaders of the Church in the Philippines appear to be unaware

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of the imminence of its issuance.

The Archbishop of Manila, Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, said he was not sure whether an encyclical on climate change was forthcoming.

“What I know is that issues related to the environment are being studied in the Vatican for a possible encyclical,” Tagle said. “I don’t know if the study is finished or if an encyclical has been written.”

‘Ethical imperative’

The Rev. Anton Pascual, executive director of Caritas Manila and head of the subcommittee on media relations for the papal visit, said Francis would speak about environmental concerns in his discourses here.

“His mercy and compassion theme in visiting our country will definitely include his strong advocacy of care for God’s creation and the challenge of responsible stewardship of our environment and care for the poor,” Pascual said.

“The poor are the most vulnerable during disasters that Pope Francis would like to address and give special concern from society, especially its leaders,” he said.

The Pope may have given the world a glimpse of the encyclical when he sent a message to environmental ministers who attended the 20th Conference of Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Lima, Peru, last month.

“What you are going to debate affects the whole of humanity, in particular the poorest and future generations. More

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FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

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than that, it is a grave ethical and moral chair of the Senate committee on cliresponsibility,” Francis said in his mes- mate change, said in a phone interview sage sent to Peruvian Minister of the on Friday.

Environment Manuel Pulgar-Vidal, president of the climate talks.

Protectors of environment The Pontiff warned about the “conseLegarda is the UN International Stratquences of changes” brought about by egy on Disaster Reduction (UNISDR) climate change, “which are already felt champion for climate change adaptation in a dramatic way in many states, espe- and risk reduction. cially the insular ones of the Pacific, re“Pope Francis has been calling upon mind us of the gravity of negligence and humanity to be the protectors of the eninaction. The time to find global solu- vironment. He really understands the tions is running out. Wewill only be able needs of the poor because the poorest to find adequate solutions if we act to- citizens of the world are the most vulgether and in agreement. Hence, there is nerable to the effects of environmental a clear, definitive and ineluctable ethical degradation,” Legarda said. imperative to act.”

“The earth that we live in provides us Francis pushed for an “effective strug- with our needs, and even if we have all gle against global warming” through a the money in the world, we will not sur“responsible collective answer that goes vive in a deteriorating environment. I beyond particular interests and behav- hope this will be among his (Pope Franior and is developed cis’) messages to the free of political and Filipinos so that we economic pressures.” would be more mindBishops from evful of our environery continent, also ment by respecting frustrated with the our environmental stalled climate talks, laws, veering away urged rich countries from a consumptive taking part in the Our academics lifestyle, and working Lima conference to supported the toward sustainability act.

Pope’s and resilience,” she initiative to said.

Resistance skeptics

from

influence next year’s crucial decisions.

But the Pope’s environmental radicalism is likely to draw resistance from Vatican conservatives and in rightwing Church circles, particularly in the United States, where Catholic climate skeptics include the Republican leader of the House of Representatives, John Boehner, and Rick Santorum, the former Republican presidential candidate, according to The Guardian.

Cardinal George Pell, a former Archbishop of Sydney whom Francis has appointed to oversee the Vatican’s budget, is a climate change skeptic who has been criticized for claiming that global warming has ceased and that if carbon dioxide in the atmosphere were doubled, then plants would love it, The Guardian said.

The paper also quoted Dan Misleh, director of the Catholic climate covenant, as saying: “There will always be 5-10 percent of people who will take offense.

They are very vocal and have political clout. This encyclical will threaten some people and bring joy to others. The arguments are around economics and science rather than morality.”

Even so, news that the Pope would be championing collective action on global warming made the day of Sen. Loren Legarda.

“I look forward to the [encyclical] of Pope Francis about climate change and how it affects the poorest and most vulnerable sectors of society,” Legarda,

Storm surges

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), giant storm surges generated by Yolanda provided the world with an incontrovertible proof of extreme weather events associated with climate change.

The WMO’s Annual Statement on the Status of the Climate in 2014 confirmed the long-term global warming trend, with WMO Secretary General Michel Jarraud declaring that Yolanda was unequivocal proof of the disastrous effects of global warming on the planet and its inhabitants.

“We saw heavier precipitation, more intense heat, and more damage from storm surges and coastal flooding as a result of sea-level rise-as Typhoon Haiyan so tragically demonstrated in the Philippines,” Jarraud said in a statement.

The WMO annual statement reported that 2013 tied with 2007 as the sixth warmest on record. It said 13 of the 14 warmest years on record all occurred in the 21st century.

Climate change causes extreme events (i.e., storms becoming more intense and longer lasting) because of warmer ocean temperatures, among other factors.

Studies show that as sea surface temperatures rise, developing storms (hurricanes or tropical cyclones), which get their energy from warm water, will consequently contain more energy, resulting in stronger storms. ■

Catholic priest asks the faithful in Leyte to bring banners with faces of Jesus and Blessed Virgin PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY MANILA — A Catholic priest urged the faithful to bring banners with the faces of Jesus, the Blessed Virgin and the saints to welcome Pope Francis when he visits Leyte, on Friday, Jan. 17.

Fr. Amadeo Alvero, head of the information and social communications committee of the Papal Visit to the Archdiocese of Palo, said the people are requested to hold up these tarpaulins during the papal motorcade, which was the instruction of the Vatican officials to the Archdiocese of Palo.

The Vatican’s suggestion is perceived as a sign of the Pope’s personal disposition of humility and submissiveness to Christ from whom his official title stems.

For his part, Palo Archbishop John Du also asked the survivors of typhoon Yolanda to join in welcoming the Pope.

www.canadianinquirer.net

“This is a rare opportunity to experience the mercy and compassion of God through the apostolic mission of the Vicar of Christ on earth, the Pope,” he said in an article posted on papalvisitph website.

Du called on the faithful to carry banners that say: “God is merciful and compassionate”.

On Jan. 17, the Holy Father will be spending an entire day in Tacloban and Palo, Leyte.

Meanwhile, over a million ponchos, will be distributed to the pilgrims who will attend the Mass at the Tacloban International Airport, to protect them from possible rain.

Alvero said that the items will be donated by private companies.

Organizers of the event has requested residents living along the road, where the Mass will be held to open their homes to pilgrims, providing them with free drinking water and use of restrooms. ■

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Philippine News

JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

Bilibid ‘VIP’ Alcala urged to take leave inventory: 19 guns, while NBI probes cartel 403 bullets, 268 appliances

BY GIL C. CABACUNGAN Philippine Daily Inquirer

BY KRISTINE FELISSE MANGUNAY Philippine Daily Inquirer

year, and on Jan. 4 and 6.

Supt. Richard Schwarzkopf, officer in charge of the NBP, told reporters that the majority of the items were actually surTHE RECENT haul of contra- rendered by the inmates. Those band confiscated mostly from whose still tried to hide contramoneyed inmates of New Bili- band would “definitely” face bid Prison (NBP) is more than charges while those who volunenough to start up a store of tarily gave up theirs would be high-end appliances and gad- spared, he said. gets—with the backroom servRachel Ruelo, OIC for prison ing as a gun shop. and security of the Bureau of The NBP adCorrections, ministration, said some of under fire since the items were last month for turned in after a again allowing dialogue with the so-called VIPs or Those inmates. “very important whose still As to how prisoners” to live tried to hide the guns had in virtual luxucontraband found their way ry, released on would into the kubol, Thursday an in“definitely” Schwarzkopf ventory of items face charges had no immediseized in a series while those ate explanation, of raids initiated who voluntarily saying only that by the Departgave up theirs some rifles like ment of Justice, would be the M16 could which has since spared. be disassembled sacked five prisand “we don't on officials. have enough The items equipment to deinclude 19 firetect those kinds arms, 403 pieces of assorted of metals.” ammunition and at least 268 “We are doing all that we can appliances and gadgets—air- (to rid the facility of all forms of conditioning units, flat-screen contraband),” he said.

TVs, home theater systems, Yet on Thursday, a day after refrigerators and gaming con- the last raid on the kubol and soles. when the contraband list was Most of the guns were pistols released, a grenade explosion but also included an M16 rifle inside the maximum security and improvised shotguns. compound killed an inmate These were the result of raids and wounded 19 others. Invesconducted on the inmates’ tigators suspect that the attack “kubol” or detention spaces at either stemmed from another the maximum security com- gang war or a retaliation for the pound on Dec. 22, 29 and 31 last raids. ■

A LAWMAKER has urged Agriculture Secretary Proceso Alcala to take a leave of absence while the National Bureau of Investigation completes its probe into his alleged role in the emergence of a garlic and onion cartel under his watch.

“Secretary Alcala should face a thorough probe by the NBI since his being linked to the garlic cartel is a very serious allegation that must be investigated to the fullest,” said Valenzuela Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian of the Nationalist People’s Coalition.

“Secretary Alcala should not porters and Vendors Associa- office under a cloud. wear thin his friendship and in- tion of the Philippines, which A DA source, who requested fluence with President Aquino. cornered 2,469 import permits anonymity for lack of authority It’s about time that he insulates for garlic from 2010 to 2014, or to speak for the agency, said that the Chief Executive by taking 67 percent of the 3,652 permits shortly after Barron was fired in a leave of absence until he is that were issued by the BPI. July last year, Alcala appointed finally cleared by the NBI. He “Is Leah Cruz that influential him as a technical assistant. The should do a Secretary Ona,” in the agriculture department DA source said Barron was a relGatchalian said. that she practically corners the ative of Alcala’s wife.

Gatchalian was referring to bulk of import permits?” said Barron was sacked following Health Secretary Enrique Ona Gatchalian. “There is a prepon- a public outcry against a spike who resigned rein garlic prices cently after being after the supply accused of irregwas manipulated ularities in the by a cartel allegtesting of an antiSecretary Alcala should face a edly condoned dengue drug. thorough probe by the NBI since his and endorsed by Whistle-blowbeing linked to the garlic cartel is a Alcala. er Elizabeth very serious allegation that must be The DA source “Lilybeth” Vainvestigated to the fullest. said this was the lenzuela, a garlic same case with importer, said former National former Bureau of Food Authority Plant Industry (BPI) Director derance of circumstantial evi- Administrator Orlan Calayag Clarito Barron had told import- dence pointing to Secretary Al- and his special assistant, Deners that they must have Alcala’s cala’s possible link to the garlic nis Guerrero, who resigned in blessings to be issued import racket which should be reason August last year amid charges permits. enough for him to take a leave of rice overpricing and grantValenzuela accused Lilia Ma- of absence pending results of ing a P1-billion cargo-handling tabang Cruz, alias Leah Cruz, the NBI probe.” contract without a bidding. of being the Department of Gatchalian also questioned The DA source said Calayag Agriculture’s (DA’s) favored why Alcala had used his office was appointed assistant secimporter. Cruz is president of to harbor relatives and appoin- retary while Guerrero was rethe Vegetables Importers, Ex- tees who had been kicked out of tained as Alcala’s chief of staff. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net

Philippine News

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

11

25,000 soldiers...

Mr. Aquino said the government would ensure there would be enough space in the crowds to absorb the throng in case of a stampede.

He said one video would show the faithful waiting for John Paul II along Roxas Boulevard in a “disciplined” manner. Everybody was on the sidewalk, he noted.

“As the Pope’s convoy neared, the perimeter was broken. It is in instances like this that people could get hurt and it could give terrorists a chance to get near the Pope. We cannot let that happen,” the President said.

He said another video captured the commotion at the Manila airport during the visit of Pope Paul VI, where “it looked like a lot of people were mingling at the airport, which should not be the case.”

“The fake priest was able to enter [the airport],” the President said, referring to Bolivian painter Benjamin Mendoza, who was able to lunge at and wound the Pontiff in an assassination attempt.

“Of course, we look back on these,” Mr. Aquino said when asked how much of the Philippine experience in securing Pope Paul VI and St. Pope John Paul II were considered in preparing for the visit of Francis next week.

The President urged the public to follow the measures the government had put in place to keep Francis safe during his visit from Jan. 15 to 19.

“Let us help each other,” Mr. Aquino told reporters. “The citizens are key to make the visit peaceful.”

Mr. Aquino said about 25,000 members of the military and the police would be assigned to ensure Francis’ safety.

“But with 25,000 for 6 million people who are estimated to go to Luneta [for the Pope’s Mass], the government can’t do it alone,” Mr. Aquino said. “We will keep on repeating our message: We are in touch with the Church and the private sectors. If we work on this together, we will accomplish our goal.”

ment agencies.

❰❰ 1

No ‘nightmares’ yet

Asked if he had apprehensions over the Pope’s security, the President said he had always been “obsessive” with details.

He said that while he had yet to have “nightmares,” it was the “government’s job to always think of the worst-case scenario and then try to prevent this from happening.”

Final rehearsal

“We are resolute ... to ensure that we lessen the risks inherent with the Pope’s visit,” Mr. Aquino said. “There are challenges because our Pope today is one that is very close to the people and he looks forward to the chance to get close to our fellow Filipinos.”

The Armed Forces of the Philippines

No-firearms policy

Policemen gather for a training run of procedures for the upcoming papal visit this week.

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

has completed more than 90 percent of its preparations, ready for all possible scenarios.

AFP spokesperson Col. Restituto Padilla said the military was only “finetuning” its preparations.

“One final rehearsal will be done in the coming days,” Padilla said.

He said the AFP was preparing for all scenarios but was focusing on crowd control, given that the papal visit would draw millions of people to the event.

No umbrellas

“We appeal to the public to follow the regulations, which will be publicized in newspapers, TV and radio stations,” Padilla said.

This is to address the possibility of a stampede. Padilla predicted more than 10 million people would turn out for the papal visit.

At Quirino Grandstand, the crowd is expected to reach 6 million, while the event at SM Mall of Asia Arena is expected to draw 4 million to 5 million people.

Announcements on road blocks and closures, as well as traffic rerouting, will be announced later.

Since umbrellas will not be allowed for security purposes, the public is advised to bring hats or transparent, plastic raincoats.

the prohibition would be an added measure to ensure papal security.

PNP spokesperson Chief Supt. Wilben Mayor said the no-firearms policy would be strictly implemented in the nine areas in Manila and Leyte province that the Pope would visit.

The ban will apply to civilians who own firearms and off-duty members of the PNP, the AFP and other law enforce-

The areas where the no-firearms policy will be observed are the Nunciature area on Taft Avenue; Malacañang Palace; Manila Cathedral; SM Arena; Villamor Air Base; University of Santo Tomas; Quirino Grandstand; Tacloban City, and Palo town, Leyte province.

Members of law enforcement agencies will be allowed to bring their firearms if they are on duty in the said areas, Mayor said.

Under the law, firearms are not allowed in “places of worship, public drinking and amusement places and all other commercial or public establishments.”

Mayor said the prohibition was not a gun ban but an implementation of provisions of the gun control law. He said the prohibition would apply on the days and times the Pope was scheduled to visit certain areas.

For example, the prohibition will not apply to Manila if Francis is visiting Tacloban City.

Hard-headed gun owners face the risk of having their firearms confiscated if they insist on bringing them to gunfree zones, while their licenses will be revoked, Mayor warned. ■

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Diapers optional

Asked if soldiers would be wearing “diapers,” like the personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, Padilla said it would be a “personal preference” of soldiers.

“The AFP will not be providing adult diapers,” Padilla said, adding that soldiers were trained to control their bladders. But there will be public toilets for security personnel and the public.

Civilians and off-duty lawmen will not be allowed to bring their guns in places included in the papal visit.

The Philippine National Police said www.canadianinquirer.net

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JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

De Lima: P-Noy has list of convicts to be pardoned

BY JEROME ANING Philippine Daily Inquirer

pardoned, have their sentences commuted or be paroled by Mr. Aquino.

“Pending the Office of the President’s action, we can’t disclose how many,” De Lima said.

The Bureau of Corrections was

dent Aquino last week.

De Lima said the President wanted to grant clemency to the prisoners, particularly JUSTICE SECRETARY Leila de those who were elderly and Lima said on Monday she had seriously ill, as a “gift” to Pope submitted the list of prisoners Francis who is scheduled to recommended visit the country for executive from Jan. 15 to clemency when 19.

Pope Francis visThe Pardons its the country The President wanted to grant and Parole Adthis week. clemency to the prisoners, ministration “I already subparticularly those who were elderly (PPA) recommitted to Presiand seriously ill, as a “gift” mended 47 indent Aquino the to Pope Francis. mates for execulist of those rective clemency in ommended for November last executive clemyear but this has ency,” De Lima yet to be acted on said in a text message to report- earlier reported to have recom- by Malacañang. The PPA is also ers. mended clemency for about 200 reviewing the cases of 85 other She, however, would not say prisoners. De Lima screened the inmates who also applied for a how many convicts would be list before submitting it to Presi- presidential pardon. ■

The popemobile used by Pope Francis in Korea last year will be utilized in his Tacloban visit on Jan. 17

BY FERDINAND G. PATINO Philippine News Agency MANILA — A Catholic prelate said on Monday the popemobile used by Pope Francis in South Korea in August 2014 will be utilized during the Holy Father’s visit to Leyte province on Saturday.

According to Bishop Ruperto Santos, chairman of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) Committee on Transportation, the vehicle from Korea will be one of the three popemobiles that will be used by the pontiff during his four-day Apostolic and State Visit in the country.

“Iyong dalawa, gawa ng local car makers, at iyong isa galing sa Korea. Iyon ‘yung ginamit ng Holy Father nung World Youth Day at gagamitin niya ulit sa Tacloban (The two are made by local car makers while one is from Korea. That was the one used by the Holy Father during the World Youth Day and will use again in Tacloban),” Santos

said during the weekly Papal Visit press briefing in Manila on Monday.

The Balanga prelate explained that one of the vehicles will be a backup car in case the primary car breaks down.

Last Jan. 5, Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Cardinal Tagle blessed the popemobiles.

The vehicle which Pope Francis will use in the Manila events will be a jeepney-inspired popemobile.

The Holy Father is set to arrive in the country on Jan. 15.

Meanwhile, organizers of the event at the University of Santo Tomas (UST) for the encounter of Pope Francis with the youth and religious leaders advised those who want to attend the gathering that the gates of the venue will be open at 4 a.m. on Sunday.

In an advisory, the UST said that the general public is advised to stay at designated areas in the campus. They can enter the premises at Gates 10 and 11.

For the young people who are participants in the encounter with the Holy Father, they will

occupy the Football Field and must enter Gates 5 and 6.

The members of the Thomasian community are assigned to use gates 1, 2, 3 and 14.

The university also reminded the public that there are no tickets to the event and the Pope will not celebrate Mass there.

It also advised the public that five streets located near the UST will be closed to vehicular traffic as ordered by the Presidential Security Guards and the Philippine National Police.

These are: from Welcome Rotonda to Morayta St.; from Dimasalang to Nagtahan Bridge; from Dapitan (Dapitan Sports Complex) to Lacson St.; from Piy Margal to Dos Castillas St.; and the stretch of P. Noval from Dapitan St. to Espana Blvd.

On the other hand, authorities also designated four dropoff points for those who will attend the gathering. These are: Andalucia St. corner LaonLaan St.; Espana St. corner Morayta St.; Lacson St. corner Dimasalang St. and Espana Blvd. corner Blumentritt St. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

Black Nazarene ‘escort’ killed near his ‘Señor’ Quiapo procession turns fatal again after 2010

BY JEROME ANING Philippine Daily Inquirer A DELUGE of faith tainted by a fatality.

A man counted among the “official escorts” of the Black Nazarene of Quiapo died while participating in the mammoth procession of the iconic image last Friday, his body crushed by the relentless wave of bodies pressing against the carriage that paraded the statue in central Manila.

Renato Gurion, 44, a member of a parish-backed group of devotees known Hijos del Nuestro Padre Jesus Nazareno, was one of those assigned to ride the andas and help others climb over to touch or dab towels on the 17th century image held by many to be miraculous.

Doctors at the Manila Doctors’ Hospital pronounced Gurion dead at 8:50 a.m., 20 minutes after he was rushed there. The cause of death was cardiac arrest, according to the Manila Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office.

Members of the Hijos del Nazareno believe it was the first time in the 400-year-old history of the procession also known as the “traslacion” that one of their members lost his life while performing his duty for their Señor Nazareno.

The procession was just less than hour old when tragedy struck.

“It happened around 8 a.m., when the andas (carriage) had just moved five meters away from the stage (of the Quirino Grandstand),” said Adam Rich Sanding, an Hijos member who was beside Gurion at the time.

“There was a sudden rush of

devotees wanting to climb over and it overwhelmed him (Gurion). He lost his balance while on the andas and got crushed by the sheer weight of the people,” Sanding said, adding that he was nearly trampled on as well.

“I also fell but managed to get up at once. But we had difficulty getting Gurion up again. It took us 15 minutes, and by the time we got firm hold of him he was already turning blue.”

Emergency medics tried to revive Gurion before sending him to the hospital, but to no avail.

“In all the years the traslacion has been staged, this is the first time a member of the Hijos has been killed,” Sanding said.

Every procession—dismissed by critics as a superficial form of Catholic devotion bordering on idolatry—leaves hundreds injured or unconscious. The last time the traslacion turned fatal was 2010, when three devotees perished.

According to his colleagues, Gurion was already a longtime Nazarene devotee before he was formally made an Hijos member five years ago.

Sanding noted that Gurion appeared fit as he had regularly joined long-distance running events. However, Gurion once told him that underwent angioplasty long ago, he added.

He added that the incident could have been avoided if only the devotees, especially those new to the ways of the traslacion, showed more order and restraint.

“There’s a practice called pagpipingga, which is a gradual way to get to the andas,” Sanding said. “But devotees today don’t mind stepping on other people just to reach it.” ■

Black Nazarene devotee Renato Guryon, 44, is assisted by fellow devotees after he suffered suffocation and collapsed while securing the "andas" or carriage bearing the revered icon during the procession from the Quirino Grandstand in Manila's Rizal Park on Jan. 9, 2015.

AVITO C. DALAN / PNA

Philippine News

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

13

Miriam to raise legality of Bangsamoro basic law

BY TJ BURGONIO Philippine Daily Inquirer SEN. MIRIAM Defensor Santiago is looking into the constitutionality of the proposed Bangsamoro basic law (BBL), but mindful of Congress’ target of passing it by the end of the first quarter.

Santiago said the peace agreement with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) also sought to establish a substate that would exercise certain sovereign powers otherwise reserved for the central government.

“I would like to hear what the proponents of the Bangsamoro Basic Law will have to say during the hearings. Let’s see if

they can change my mind,” she said.

The senator had earlier asserted that when the Executive Branch “misrepresenting” itself as the government, entered into an agreement with the rebel group, the result was not a mere autonomous region but a “substate.”

“Thus, the agreement is concluded between one branch mistakenly identifying itself as the government, and what will turn out to be a substate,” she said then.

Government chief negotiator Miriam Coronel-Ferrer had maintained that the agreement complied with the Constitution.

Sen. Ferdinand Marcos Jr., who conducted public hearings on the draft law in parts of

Mindanao as chair of the local government committee, agreed that the issue of substate was the “main constitutional question.”

“Does this constitute a state within a state? That is why the decision of the Supreme Court on the MOA-AD (Memorandum on Agreement on Ancestral Domain) was very important because the basis for its unconstitutionality could be found in the BBL. That’s why that needs to be fixed so it won’t go the way of the MOA-AD,” he told a press forum on Thursday.

The aborted signing of the MOA-AD in August 2008 set off clashes between government troops and MILF members.

The high court later ruled the agreement unconstitutional.

Santiago, chair of the committee on constitutional amendments and revision of codes, has set the hearings for Jan. 26 and Feb. 2.

She planned to invite Ferrer, Secretary Teresita QuintosDeles, presidential adviser on the peace process; Mohagher Iqbal, chair of the Bangsamoro Transition Commission; Ghadzali Jaafar, MILF vice chair for political affairs; and Mike Mastura, chair of advocacy committee of the MILF negotiating panel.

Smaller by the day

Also to be invited are constitutional law experts, retired Chief Justice Reynato Puno and retired Supreme Court justices Adolfo Azcuna and Vicente

Mendoza, Fr. Joaquin Bernas of the Ateneo Law School, former Dean Merlin Magallona of the UP College of Law, Dean Julkipli Wadi of the UP Institute of Islamic Studies and Fr. Ranhilio Aquino of the San Beda College Graduate School of Law. Senate President Franklin Drilon and House Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. had vowed to pass the draft law by the first quarter of the year.

Marcos conceded that the window of passing it was becoming smaller by the day since Congress adjourns on March 18.

But he said that approving it on second and third reading would be much easier once President Aquino certifies it as urgent. ■

‘Seniang’ death toll at 66, 6 missing, P1B in damage

BY JEANNETTE I. ANDRADE Philippine Daily Inquirer WITH THE recovery of the body of Juanita Tambis, 37, of Antequera, Bohol, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) raised the death toll from Tropical Storm “Seniang” to 66 and lowered the number of the missing to six.

Tambis had been swept away and drowned in a flash flood.

Belated reports of deaths in Western Visayas and the provinces of Cebu, Leyte, Samar and Agusan del Sur also raised the number of fatalities.

Damage to agriculture and infrastructure caused by Seniang (international name: Jangmi) has breached P1 billion, according to the NDRRMC. The NDRRMC said that as of last Saturday morning, the regions of Mimaropa, Western,

A satellite photo of Tropical Storm Seniang (Jangmi) over the Philippines on December 29, 2014.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Eastern and Central Visayas, Northern Mindanao, Davao and Caraga, which were hardest hit by Seniang, reported damage to agriculture of around P719 million.

Meanwhile, damage to infrastructure in the seven regions

and Bicol was placed by the NDRRMC at P552.4 million.

Nearly 30 roads and 20 bridges remained in states of disrepair in Bicol, Western, Central and Eastern Visayas, Northern Mindanao and Caraga.

www.canadianinquirer.net

Among the latest reported killed were Romeo Abarracoso, 58, of Barangay Mercedes, Catbalogan, Samar, who died in a landslide; Jun Jun Bahinting, 35, of Ronda, Cebu, who drowned; Emmanuel Atiba-

gos, 38, of Limburan, Burauen, Leyte; and Francisco Daga, 67, of Congumbang, Palo, Leyte.

Among the fatalities in Agusan del Sur were Pepe Ares, 50, of Barangay San Martin, Prosperidad, who was killed in a landslide, and CJ Florentino, 15, of Barangay 4, San Francisco town, who drowned.

Those who died in Western Visayas were Herman Atay, 40, of Sipalay, Negros Occidental, and Gerard Sumugat, 37, of Barangay Tampalan, Kabankalan City. Jay Dingson, 36, of San Vicente, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental, who had been listed as injured died while being treated after he was electrocuted.

Of the fatalities, 32 died in landslides in Leyte and Samar in Eastern Visayas and 21 drowned in floods in Bohol and Cebu in Central Visayas. ■

14

Philippine News

JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

They’ve nothing on me – Binay

BY CHRISTINE O. AVENDAÑO AND GIL CABACUNGAN Philippine Daily Inquirer

saw each other when Trillanes was in military detention and he told him that he had requested them to do certain things but they did not.

VICE PRESIDENT Jejomar Messianic complex Binay last week said he was He said Trillanes had a “mesconfident his political enemies sianic complex” then and even would not be able to find any now. irregular transactions in the “Did you know that he begovernment’s mass housing lieved people on Ayala would projects under Pag-Ibig Fund, come down from their offices contrary to claims made by Sen. as in Edsa 1 and support him?”

Antonio Trillanes IV. Binay said.

“No matter how hard they But no one came down to join try, they won’t find anything,” Trillanes and his group when Binay said, responding to they walked to Ayala and that Trillanes’ allegation that the was why the group was forced Vice President gave contracts to “retreat” and go to Manila to favored developers and ben- Peninsula instead, Binay said. efited from the sweetheart Binay’s new spokesperdeals. son, lawyer Rico Quicho, said Speaking in an interview with Trillanes should publicly apolTV5 “Punto Asintado” anchors ogize for sullying not only the Erwin Tulfo and Martin An- reputation of the Vice Presidanar, Binay said Trillanes had dent but also that of Pag-Ibig no evidence to support his new Fund, its officials and members. allegations against him and was Speaking on ANC’s Headstart again “shooting from the hip.” program, Quicho said Trillanes’ Rooted in Pen siege statements involving Pag-Ibig Told by Andanar that and the absence of evidence to Trillanes had told him in an in- prove his claim had hurt the terview before that his grudge government employees there. against the Vice President had Quicho said Trillanes was to do with his not making good working only for his own “selfsome promises he supposedly aggrandizement.” made when the the former Navy officer led the 2007 Manila Peninsula siege, No matter how hard they try, Binay said the they won’t find anything. senator was lying.

He said he and El Shaddai leader Mike Velarde He said the Vice President did not respond to Trillanes’ would proceed with his bid for call to join him in seeking to the presidency in 2016 despite overthrow the administration the corruption allegations beof then President Gloria Maca- ing hurled at him. pagal-Arroyo.

“Nothing can stop him,” “Brother Mike and I quit to- Quicho said. ward the end because there were many plans that were not What political ad? being shared with those who Pag-Ibig President and Chief joined,” Binay said.

Executive Officer Darlene BerBinay said he and Trillanes berabe belied Senate Majority

Vice President Jejomar Binay last week said he was confident his political enemies would not be able to find any irregular transactions in the government’s mass housing projects under Pag-Ibig Fund, contrary to claims made by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV. WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

Leader Alan Peter Cayetano’s claim that Binay had lobbied Pag-Ibig Fund to produce a political advertisement for him.

In a statement, Binay’s office quoted Berberabe as saying in an interview onANCthat the Pag-Ibig board of trustees did discuss who would be the best spokesperson for the agency to appear in commercials to promote its services.

Berberabe said she asked Binay in the meeting what he thought of the discussion.

“And categorically, Vice President Binay said, ‘Not me,’” Berberabe said.

She refuted Trillanes’ claims that Binay gave housing projects to favored contractors, saying that on the contrary, the Vice President removed special arrangements and special fa-

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vors from the Pag-Ibig system, as the fund was still reeling from the housing scam allegedly perpetrated by the group of Delfin Lee. ‘Queen of Chismis’

Navotas Rep. Tobias Tiangco, interim president of Binay’s political party United Nationalist Alliance, called Cayetano “Queen of Chismis” (Gossip Queen) for continuing to sow intrigue against the Vice President.

Tiangco said it was the height of hypocrisy for Cayetano to disparage Binay for wanting to use Pag-Ibig funds for selfish political gains when he himself was the one guilty of the charge.

“Cayetano has been appearing in political ads using Taguig when he is not even the mayor of the city. The cost of the Cayetano ads has been estimated at around P500 million but the senator has not been candid about who is paying for the ads

and if Taguig funds were used,” Tiangco said.

“Cayetano once again displayed his trademark hypocrisy. Not only that, he also confirmed his reputation as the Queen of Chismis and Intrigue in the Senate when he made that false statement about the Vice President,” he said.

Tiangco said Cayetano should be the one who must be charged for “false advertising” for claiming in his TV ads that there was no corruption in Taguig City, which is led by his wife, Mayor Lani Cayetano.

“No less than the Commission on Audit uncovered these shocking anomalies in its audit report. These are adverse findings of overpricing, missing inventories, ghost employees, overpayment. How can Cayetano reconcile these actual and verified audit findings with his TV ad message? That’s false advertising,” Tiangco said. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

15

What’s up with Philippines’ sea claim against China? Download it

BY CHRISTINE O. AVENDAÑO Philippine Daily Inquirer A GOVERNMENT digital pamphlet has been launched to help Filipinos and everyone else understand the Philippines’ dispute with China over the West Philippine Sea. The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) launched the digital version of the pamphlet, “Ang West Philippine Sea: Isang Sipat,” last week.

The pamphlet and the idea of including the country’s maritime dispute with China in the school curriculum are part of government efforts to raise public awareness of the subject.

The digital version of the pamphlet may be downloaded

from www.dfa.gov.ph and the unshakeable will to defend our efforts we have been undertakDFA’s Facebook page. Printed maritime domain. That is the ing,” Jose said in a statement. copies will be The Philipdistributed to pines was given all Philippine by the United diplomatic posts Nations arbiabroad and DFA tration tribunal By understanding the fundamental consular offices until March to link between our maritime heritage in the country. submit further and our identities as Filipinos, we Noting that written argubuild the unshakeable will to defend the current foments on the our maritime domain. cus was on the West Philippine maritime disSea. putes in the Manila had West Philippine Sea, DFA purpose of this pamphlet and gone to the UNtribunal to ask spokesperson and Assistant all the other public diplomacy it to resolve China’s nine-dash Secretary Charles Jose underscored the need “to foster the archipelagic consciousness” among Filipinos.

“By understanding the fundamental link between our maritime heritage and our identities as Filipinos, we build the

line claim of almost the entire South China Sea, which includes the West Philippine Sea. China has refused to participate in the tribunal’s proceedings but in December it issued a position paper saying that the UN court had no jurisdiction over the issue because it was not a maritime but a territorial issue.

Written in Filipino, the digital pamphlet seeks to “serve as an accessible and comprehensive resource material on the West Philippine Sea.’” ■

Despite cancer, Santiago filed most bills in Senate

BY TJ BURGONIO Philippine Daily Inquirer WHILE FIGHTING lung cancer through the second half of 2014, Sen. Miriam DefensorSantiago filed more than 1,000 bills and resolutions.

Senate records showed Santiago filed 1,007 bills and resolutions as of Dec. 17, 2014, the most by a senator.

After saying she had been diagnosed with Stage 4 cancer in June last year, Santiago chaired the Commission on Appointments deliberations on the appointments of foreign officers, called hearings on the controversial Enhanced Defense Cooperation Agreement (Edca) with the United States and the killing of Filipino transgender woman Jeffrey “Jennifer” Laude, among other legislative inquiries.

She also spoke at several forums and launched a book, “Stupid is Forever,” a collection of her witty one-liners, early in December.

Santiago is on medication.

So far, according to her, 90 percent of her cancer cells had re-

gressed.

In early July, Santiago announced that she had been diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer. She said she was also suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome which made her miss sessions.

“Only my body is sick, not my brain,” she had said.

In early September, she showed up at the Senate to chair a CA hearing on the appointments of foreign officers. She flared up over differences on mustering a quorum with Ilocos Norte Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas and walked out. She has since patched things up with Fariñas.

Three of her colleagues— Senators Juan Ponce Enrile, Jinggoy Estrada and Ramon Revilla Jr.—have been charged with plunder and graft over the P10-billion pork barrel scam and are now detained at Philippine National Police headquarters while undergoing trial.

While detained since June, Estrada came in second with 604 bills and resolutions filed, followed by Sen. Antonio Trillanes IV, 307; Sen. Lito Lapid, 219, and Sen. JV Ejercito, 217. ■

NEW IMMIGRANTS WITH ELIGIBILITY TO WORK IN CANADA ARE WELCOME To Apply: For individuals already registered in ISSofBC programs, please contact your Employment Counselor or Career Facilitator.

For others, please contact 604-684-2504, or email immigrantconnections@issbc.org

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Opinion

16

JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

AS I SEE IT

Are NBP inmates being punished or pampered?

By Neal H. Cruz Philippine Daily Inquirer THE FIRST mistake was in allowing rich prisoners to build their own “kubol” in the maximum security compound of the New Bilibid Prisons (NBP). A kubol is supposed to be just a shed, but as we have seen, they have become virtually luxurious prison residences of rich criminals being punished for the crimes they committed. The kubol have air-conditioning and other modern appliances; in the case of an inmate with ambitions to becoming a recording star, his kubol included a stage and musical instruments. Despite being confined in a supposedly maximum security compound, this prisoner is said to have been able to hold concerts in public places outside the prison and even to make recordings of his songs, which were then sold to the public.

“Maximum security compound” and “maximum security prisoner” have lost their meanings in the NBP, thanks to very lax prison rules and, possibly, corrupt prison officials and guards. How can prisoners serving long prison sentences in a “maximum security compound” do all of

these things in full view of prison der anything and nothing will happen While the kubol of the 19 “very imguards? How were they able to bring to him. portant prisoners” (VIPs) who have in all those materials through the As it is turning out, prisoners sur- been transferred to the NBI comprison gates? render only a few pieces of contra- pound have been demolished, many It turns out that prison superin- band before each deadline—perhaps others are still standing. And that is tendents gave privileged prisoners to keep De Lima happy—but still keep where De Lima and her raiding team permission to bring such things as many of them. It is also possible that keep finding contraband. appliances, construction materi- many more keep coming in through All those kubol should be demolals, lots of money, drugs, knives and, visitors. ished, and regular maximum security most alarming, even high-powered It is shocking that high prison of- cells should be built for the prisoners. guns. Three of the superintendents ficials, including the Bureau of Cor- In the NBP, the divide between the were relieved of rich and the poor is their positions but clearly visible. The In the NBP, the divide between the rich and the poor no charges have poor prisoners are is clearly visible. The poor prisoners are cramped in crowded been filed against cramped in crowdcells, while rich prisoners have their own private quarters them. ed cells, while rich The number of prisoners have their where they are free to do almost anything. automatic rifles and own private quarhandguns, found during surprise in- rections director, have not visited ters where they are free to do almost spections by agents of the National the maximum security compound in anything.

Bureau of Investigation and the Phil- more than a year. So they do not know Transferring the 19 VIPs to the ippine National Police led by Justice what is happening in the compound NBI detention cells has not improved Secretary Leila de Lima, was enough reserved for hardened criminals. the situation much. De Lima’s raidfor prisoners to stage a revolt inside One visit to the maximum security ers still keep finding the same conthe prison. The prison compound has compound would show, all too quick- traband—weapons, cell phones and been inspected seven times already, ly, the anomaly of it all. There are so other communication equipment, but contraband, including guns and many kubol in the compound, with drugs, money, plenty of them—in knives, keep turning up. Each time, prisoners roaming about freely, such the NBI cells. The cells are supSecretary de Lima gives the prisoners that they seem to constitute a small posed to be guarded by three sets of a new deadline to surrender all their village outside prison. Are these pris- guards—from the NBI, from the NBP contraband, but what good will that oners being punished or being pam- and from the military. So how were/ do? A prisoner can refuse to surren- pered? are(?) the prisoners able to smuggle

all those contraband in?

A clue is the bundles of cash found in the cells. The prisoners could have been bribing their guards. Which is a reflection of the quality of the guards and the officers who chose them to guard the VIP convicts.

A new prison is supposed to be built somewhere in Nueva Ecija and the present one in Muntinlupa sold to land developers. But it may not be finished, or even started, under the new administration.

A change in the design of the prison setup is necessary to avoid the same anomalies in the NBP. When the NBP was built decades ago, it was supposed to be among the best prisons in the region. Not anymore. It is now among the worst.

Also, the city jail in Manila, situated beside a market and a crowded residential area, should be transferred somewhere else. The city jail is like a sieve. All sorts of contraband, among them drugs, can be supplied the prisoners from the windows of the residences overlooking the jail compound.

Our prison system needs so many reforms. The question is: Do our officials know what to do? ■

PUBLIC LIVES

Tolerance

By Randy David Philippine Daily Inquirer TOLERANCE FOR forms of belief and behavior different from our own is an evolutionary achievement of society. It grows alongside increasing social diversity and complexity, finding expression in liberal laws and communication practices. Indeed, cultural progress may be measured by the extent to which societies are able to surpass the repressive intolerance of previous epochs. Not surprisingly, as in most other areas of life, such progress has been uneven.

Modern social institutions, particularly the law, prompt individuals to keep their multiple identities apart, instead of allowing any of these to determine all their interactions in everyday life. Yet, in many societies today, including those that are modern in all other respects, people continue to subject others to discrimination based on race or ethnicity, caste or class, religion, and gender, etc. This unevenness is likewise evident in the varying degrees to which people use the primordial strands supplied by race and religion to weave their personal identities.

These rudimentary thoughts are summoned once again by the need to make sense of a recent event that

seems as barbaric as it is anachronistic to understand this fierce liberalism ers Cherif and Said Kouachi, were in the context of a modern society like and secularism when one considers able to escape on a hijacked vehicle France. Apart from condemning the French history, particularly the revo- but were subsequently cornered deed, what is one supposed to think lution that dislodged the aristocracy by the police in a small town in the when masked gunmen barge into the and the clergy from their perch. outskirts of Paris where they sought editorial offices of a satirical French The French President, François refuge. The latest report says the two news magazine and mow down its en- Hollande, wasted no time calling the men, who had made known that they tire staff during their weekly meeting, massacre of the Charlie Hebdo staff wished to die as martyrs, have been killing 10 of them, including the editor a terrorist attack, an assault against killed by the French police. in chief, and the two policemen as- all the ideals that France represents.

People fear that this tragic episode signed to secure them?

“The Republic equals freedom of may not end here, but may signal the The magazine, Charlie Hebdo, is expression; the Republic equals cul- renewal of a conflictful process that known for its distinctive style of re- ture, creation; it equals pluralism should have ended under modernity. porting the news. It specializes in and democracy. That is what the as- While Muslims everywhere have lampooning and condemned the viomocking various lent attack on the While Muslims everywhere have condemned the vioforms of extremist French journalists lent attack on the French journalists as unacceptable and unthinking and conas unacceptable and warranted, there is widespread apprehension that the event duct. Islamic fundaunwarranted, there mentalism has been is widespread apcould trigger an Islamophobic backlash. one of its favorite prehension that the subjects. The paper’s irreverent de- sassins were targeting. It equals the event could trigger an Islamophobic pictions of the figure of Prophet Mo- ideal of justice and peace that France backlash. hammad in its recent cartoons have promotes everywhere on the internaFrance has the largest Islamic imangered many Muslims who consider tional stage, and the message of peace migrant population in Europe. Like these portrayals not just insensitive and tolerance that we defend—as do Germany, it has had to confront the but downright blasphemous and of- our soldiers—in the fight against ter- serious challenge of growing anti-imfensive to their faith. Its fearless edi- rorism and fundamentalism.” migrant sentiments. Indeed, globaltor, cartoonist Stephane CharbonniThe assassins have been identified ization has transported the problemer, who was specifically targeted for as Islamic extremists with links to a atic ghost of the colonial “other” into execution, once defended his paper Yemen-based al-Qaida group. One of the very heart of Europe. It is certainby saying that he and his fellow jour- them, an 18-year-old young man, who ly not a coincidence that the Kouachi nalists operated only under French appears to have served as a lookout, brothers are of Algerian origin. laws and not by the rules of Islam or has been arrested. The two gunmen What global migration has done any other religion. It is not difficult who carried out the attack, the broth- is to inject a new social reality into

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the capitals of the modern world—a reality that, when viewed through the prism of Western Enlightenment, can only be seen as an irrational attempt to Islamize Europe.

Immigrants are expected to see this themselves. Some do, but many others don’t. Their resentment grows with every instance of exclusion they experience in the colonial homeland.

In their isolation, they turn to their religion and their ethnic communities for meaning and consolation.

The freedom of expression and of the press is a highly protected right in modern democratic legal systems because of its essential vulnerability to attack by various forms of fascism. In an earlier time, when state-sponsored dominant religions were the norm, that privileged space was given to the right to freely choose and profess one’s own religion and to be entitled to respect for one’s religious feelings.

The world has moved on, and while much of Europe has outgrown its religious past, the rest of humanity holds on to its religions. The two sides are trapped in their respective metaphysics, from which they cannot hope to be bailed out by a higher reason. There is no way to begin to bridge that gap except by building a culture of tolerance and respect for the other. ■

Opinion

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

17

ANALYSIS

DOTC rams through MRT takeover

By Amando Doronila Philippine Daily Inquirer THE AQUINO administration faces heightened public protest against increased fares in the Metro Manila elevated railway system, as it stonewalls on the decision raising the fares starting Jan. 4.

President Aquino stoked public indignation when he poured scorn on demands to scrap the increases or delay their implementation, insisting that the new fares were “still the right thing to do.”

At the inauguration of government projects over the weekend in Romblon province, the President said those opposing the fare spike just wanted to look “cute” to the public. He maintained that the new fares were “reasonable and just,” especially since the Metro Manila train system—Light Rail Transit (LRT) Lines 1 and 2, and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3—was being subsidized by the entire nation.

Assuming that all residents of Metro Manila are using the MRT and LRT, “14 million people [are] being benefited and 86 million (the population of the rest of the country) [are] paying the bill,” he said.

Because train users were paying P15 before the increases but the government was spending P60 for each passenger on the MRT, 86 million Filipinos outside the metropolis were thus shouldering the P45 difference, according to the President.

He claimed that the P12-billion annual subsidy being paid by the government was only for the operation of the MRT and LRT, and “does not include improvement and upgrade of the train systems.”

Deceptive This is a deceptive presentation.

Why are the improvement and upgrade of the service to make trains safe for commuters excluded?

With the fare increases, the government could save P2 billion in subsidy yearly, which can be used for the improvement of facilities, such as escalators, elevators and toilets, the President said.

He suggested that critics of the fare increases and of the deal made by the administration with the private consortium consisting of Ayala Corp. and Metro Pacific Investments Corp., were “only out to promote themselves.”

This statement reeks of selfrighteousness and does not address the basic issue—the safety of train users commuting between their homes and places of work. It sweeps the issue of safety under the rug.

‘Fatal admissions’ Mr. Aquino sought to give the impression that the train system was losing.

The Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC), according to an INQUIRER report, made “three fatal admissions” at a congressional hearing last Thursday, giving grounds for the de-

ferment of the new fares.

The first was the admission by Transportation Undersecretary Jose Lotilla that the DOTC did not have express authority to enforce the fare increases, making them “illegal.”

The second was Lotilla’s admission that LRT-1, LRT-2 and MRT-3 “were actually making profit, with ticket sales more than enough to cover operations and maintenance cost every year.

The INQUIRER report said Lotilla had told the House transportation committee, chaired by Catanduanes Rep. Cesar Sarmiento, hearing the fare that proceeds from the fare increase, would thus go to private concessionaires operating the trains under the terms of their contract with the government.

Bayan Muna Rep. Neri Colmenares said these admissions were enough grounds for the transportation committee to issue a congressional resolution asking for a deferment of the increases, pending the Supreme Court’s resolution of the petitions to stop them.

On the government’s move to buy out private owners of MRT, a closer examination of the plan showed that a government takeover of MRT would not solve the many problems of the Metro train system.

According to a study made by groups opposing a buyout, the solution to fix the MRT as early as possible was to “spend the money instead on rehabilitation and get a qualified maintenance provider who will accept a single point of responsibility.”

Buyout On Dec. 28 last year, Transportation Secretary Joseph Abaya said that even without an allocation for Evbo (equity value buyout) in the 2015 budget, the DOTC was still giving priority to the buyout of the private owners of MRT. The 16.9-kilometer MRT-3 runs through 13 stations from the North Triangle in Quezon City to Edsa-Taft in Pasay City.

Abaya was quoted as saying that “there are other options to push through the Evbo to allow the government to take over the mass transit system along Edsa, as directed by Mr. Aquino even if it was not included in the 2015 General Appropriations Act. “We’re not left with just one option. There are other options. There’s an executive order, which is basically a directive from the President to execute this,” Abaya said.

In plain language, this means the administration is pushing for the buyout regardless of its consequences to passenger safety. This strong-arm tactic is possible only in a dictatorship.

In case of default The paper of those against the fare increases argues that the DOTC cannot do this. It points out that Evbo “is a right only of MRTC (MRT Corp.) in case there is an event default by DOTC which will trigger default of the obligation of the country.”

What Mr. Aquino probably doesn’t know or wasn’t advised is that by doing

an Evbo, government will have to be declared in default. An Evbo, as per the BLT (build, lease and transfer) agreement, is an option of MRTC in case of default or failure of the government to pay rentals. It is not an option of the government as per the BLT agreement.

The paper raised the question: “Will the buyout solve the problem of safety?”

“No,” it declared emphatically. “Buying out the MRT is not the solution to the safety issue. Buying out is no guarantee that the safety issue will be addressed. With the performance of the DOTC in 2014, giving the government full control in fact seems to be the worst thing that could happen to the MRT.” The position paper said it was wrong for the DOTC to believe that an Evbo would solve the problems of the MRT. It pointed out that an Evbo would not solve the safety issue because this was a maintenance problem.

It also said that an Evbo was not even necessary as the government already controlled the MRTC board.

Nine out of 14 board seats are held by the government through state-owned Development Bank of the Philippines and Land Bank of the Philippines.

The paper denounced Abaya for “trying to slant the story that the private owners are ripping the people of their money.” But the government is not taking responsibility for the mechanical mishaps in the trains that have caused injuries to a number of passengers over the past few months. ■

all the way to the Supreme Court.)

If you will remember, Celdran “offended” Catholic bishops when he interrupted a religious service at the Manila Cathedral by striding to the altar and holding up a sign that read “Padre Damaso.” Celdran was dressed in the style of Jose Rizal, and “Padre Damaso” is the name of a friar character in Rizal’s novel who was duplicitous and venal.

Did the bishops feel referred to?

Will Celdran, who has publicly apologized for his actions, spend time in jail for daring to challenge the bishops’ hegemony on public morals?

The “right to offend” has led to the deaths of 12 journalists and public commentators. Lovers of free speech should stand behind Celdran and uphold his—and our—right to speak out certain truths, no matter how uncomfortable. *** IN THESE trying times, raising children to be responsible adults—adults who are at the same time well-adjusted, respectful of others, optimistic and filled with hope—is indeed a daunting challenge.

Fortunately for Filipino parents, despite old issues and new technological advances, there are resource people they can turn to for guidance and support as they go about their daily tasks of parenthood and family life.

On Feb. 2, a daylong “Parenting Academy” will be held at St. Luke’s Global City offering talks and exercises on such crucial topics as: “Parenting 101,” “Connecting with your Teenager,” “Parenting in the Digital Age,” “Financial IQ,” and “Parenting Children with Special Needs.”

The keynote speaker and main organizer of the Academy is Dr. Lourdes “Honey” Carandang, perhaps the Philippines’ foremost authority on child-rearing and advocate of “mindful” parenting. Other speakers and session leaders are Queena Lee-Chua and her son Scott, Rose Ferrer Fausto, and Dr. Joanna Herrera, along with the rest of the team of MLAC (for Mindfulness, Love and Compassion) Psychosocial Services.

Open to the public, the Parenting Academy charges P1,800 for members, P2,000 for nonmembers, and P1,000 for students (student ID required). ■

AT LARGE

The right to offend

By Rina Jimenez-David Philippine Daily Inquirer #JESUISCHARLIE (#IAmCharlie) is a popular hashtag in social media to express sympathy for and solidarity with the murdered staff of the French satirical journal Charlie Hebdo.

Named after the Peanuts character Charlie Brown, Charlie Hebdo first came out in 1969, but varying economic, political and personnel circumstances led to a sporadic publishing history. Writing in the net publication Quartz, Emma-Kate Symons describes Charlie Hebdo as “a proudly anti-organized religion and congenitally politically incorrect” publication. Despite running on a shoestring budget, the magazine “has been fighting the good fight for freedom of thought and expression and a secular public space for years when many were ambivalent,” says Symons.

Although it has had covers attacking prominent French politicians and public figures, as well as Catholic leaders including the Pope, Charlie Hebdo often got into trouble when it dared launch barbs against Is-

lamists and even ventured to depict the Prophet Mohammed. Threats against the magazine had been publicly aired for years, and in 2011 its old headquarters was fire-bombed.

But last Wednesday, three masked gunmen broke into the Charlie Hebdo offices in Paris and began firing. The magazine’s editorial staff was holding a meeting at the time, so among the dead were magazine editor Stephane Charbonnier, known by his cartoon name “Charb,” and staff members, among them some of France’s most prominent cartoonists.

Witnesses said the gunmen shouted “Allahu Akbar” (God is great) while firing at the Charlie Hebdo employees.

Writes Symons: “Beyond the immediate political fallout, the ‘greatest’ to emerge from this crime expressly motivated by religious fanaticism are not God, the ‘avenged’ prophet, or Islamist extremism…

“Despite the murderers’ prayers invoking God and Allah, the heroes in this horror are the creative minds of this noble publication. Atheistic agitators, they fought literally to the

death for freedom of thought and expression, the liberty to offend, and the right to be iconoclasts…

“They died as they lived: standing up for their principles, the principles the French first fought for in the 1789 Revolution. Their only ‘weapons’ were their illustrating pens and their words.

“The martyred editor-in-chief and beloved illustrator ‘Charb’ said it best in 2012, after years of attacks against his magazine: ‘I am not afraid of reprisals. I don’t have kids, I don’t have a wife, I don’t have a car, I don’t have credit. This may sound a bit pompous but I would prefer to die standing than to live on my knees.” *** THE Charlie Hebdo case is horrific by itself. But on our shores, where sensibilities, especially of those in power, are so easily riled and their indignation so easily asserted, there is a parallel case.

And that’s the case of tour guide, performance artist and history student Carlos Celdran, whose conviction on the charge of “offense to religion” has been upheld by the Court of Appeals.

(His lawyer promises to raise the case

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18

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Canada News

Rallies held in Canada to show solidarity with French terrorism victims

NEWS BRIEFS

FROM THE CANADIAN PRESS

BY VICKY FRAGASSO-MARQUIS The Canadian Press MONTREAL — Canadians took to the streets in a number of cities last Sunday to express their solidarity and support for the victims of the recent terrorist attacks in Paris.

Thousands of people marched in downtown Montreal, with many chanting “Charlie” over and over, a reference to Charlie Hebdo, the satirical newspaper that was the target of the attack that started three days of terror.

Laurent Beltritti, a French flight attendant who happened to be in Montreal for 24 hours, was one of those who participated in the march.

“As I couldn’t attend the event in France with my friends and family, I thought it was important to come here to show my solidarity and to protest in favour of freedom and the right to express oneself without being killed by fanatics,” Beltritti said.

Asked if he was frightened about returning to Paris, Beltritti said “No, I’m not scared. You can’t be scared.

That’s what they want. You have to continue to live your life as normal.”

Montreal Mayor Denis Coderre also took part in the march, which ended at the French Consulate, and said there needs to be “zero-tolerance against fanaticism.”

“It’s important to be able to show solidarity and also that we won’t yield to intimidation,” Coderre said in an interview.

In Quebec City, Premier Philippe Couillard attended a similar event in honour of the 17 people who were killed in the attacks at the Charlie Hebdo offices, at a kosher supermarket and on police.

“What we’re saying in particular is, ‘No to fanaticism, no to blind violence, the inhuman violence we have witnessed in the past few days, and yes to freedom,”’ Couillard said.

The premier said the rallies in support of France were extremely important.

“We have to reaffirm our faith in democracy and freedom,” he said.

“The worst thing we could do would be to retreat into fear.”

In Toronto, hundreds gathered outside City Hall to voice their sup-

NEW PARLIAMENT SECURITY PLAN TAKES INTO ACCOUNT CHARLIE HEBDO-TYPE ATTACK OTTAWA — One of the co-chairs of the advisory committee looking at beefed-up security in the wake of the Oct. 22 shooting in Ottawa says last week’s attack in Paris has not changed the kinds of measures being considered for Parliament Hill. Conservative Sen. Vern White, a former police chief, says the security plan will consider the full range of possible terrorist attacks — from “lone wolf” up to a co-ordinated, well-planned assault by multiple gunmen.

Dozens of supporters gathered to honour the victims of the attack on the staff of the Charlie Hebdo magazine in Vancouver and across the rest of Canada, this past weekend.

LOW OIL PRICES HURTING CANADA’S RECOVERY: BOC

SÉBASTIEN LAUNAY / FLICKR

port for the victims of the attacks in a sombre event that saw many supporters quietly holding pens, signs and flowers.

“Nothing can really make you come to terms with such barbaric acts, but it certainly is a validation of how people of all faiths and all colours can come together peacefully,” said Fabienne Thuet, who has dual Canadian and French citizenship.

“If anything has been achieved today ... it’s that you can come together despite whatever difference we might have and peacefully so. So in a way the terrorists have achieved exactly the opposite of what they wanted to do and that’s a beautiful testimony to what we can do as human beings.”

Dozens gathered to honour the victims of the attacks in Vancouver, where a French flag waved high in the air as supporters held signs and sang the French national anthem before marching silently from Robson Square along Georgia Street downtown.

Camille Panier, 24, stood in the rain holding a sign that read “Not Afraid.”

A French citizen who teaches her native language at Simon Fraser University, she said she attended the march because she believes French people should be together at this time.

“I’m kind of shocked. It’s important to remember that we should protect our rights,” she said. “I really want to show that I am not afraid, that’s why I’m holding this sign.”

A small rally was also held in Halifax Sunday. Local media reports said the flag at the city’s Grand Parade Square was flying at half mast and many of the those who attended held pens.

The Canadian events came on the same day of a major unity rally in Paris to mourn the victims and to denounce terrorism.

Hundreds of thousands of people marched through the French capital, with Public Safety Minister Steven Blaney attending on behalf of the Canadian government.

“These terrorists have declared war against all countries and people who believe in peace, freedom, and democracy,” said Blaney in a statement issued after the march.

“But we will not be intimidated. Instead, we are more resolved than ever to unite in the collective fight against global terrorism.”

The leaders of Britain, Germany, Israel and Palestine were also there, prompting the deployment of thousands of additional police personnel to enhance security. ■

OTTAWA — The Bank of Canada says low oil and commodity prices are putting the Canadian economy’s post-recession recovery at risk.

The central bank’s deputy governor Timothy Lane told an American audience Tuesday that if cheap crude prices persist, they will significantly discourage investment in the oil sector, which he said accounts for about three per cent of Canada’s gross domestic product.

LAWSUIT LAUNCHED OVER HOCKEY SUSPENSIONS OTTAWA — The lawyer for all but two members of the University of Ottawa men’s hockey team says he is seeking approval for a classaction lawsuit against the school. Lawrence Greenspon says the university tarnished the reputations of every member of the 2013-14 squad, which was suspended en masse amid allegations of sexual assault. Two students who were on the team were charged last summer with sexually assaulting a female student at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay. DRABINSKY ORDER OF CANADA APPEAL DISMISSED TORONTO — Convicted theatre mogul Garth Drabinsky has lost an appeal through which he sought to reclaim his Order of Canada — an honour he was stripped of while serving a prison term for fraud. In dismissing the case, the Federal Court of Appeal found there was no basis for it to intervene in the matter.

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Kevin Vickers, hailed as hero for stopping Ottawa shooter, to become ambassador

BY STEPHANIE LEVITZ The Canadian Press OTTAWA — The man hailed as a hero for stopping an attack on Parliament Hill has been named Canadian ambassador to Ireland.

But in characteristic fashion, Sergeant-at-Arms Kevin Vickers remains humble about the appointment.

The 58-year-old is credited with killing a man who’d stormed into Centre Block in October after killing a soldier at the National War Memorial.

The next day, Vickers was greeted by an impromptu honour guard of MPs and Parliament Hill staff as he led the daily procession back into the House of Commons, where he was given a lengthy standing ovation.

He’s since gone on to be honoured by world leaders and the international media.

Vickers has never spoken at length about the day.

In a statement, he said he is sad to leave his colleagues and friends on Parliament Hill.

“As a Canadian with family on both sides hailing from Ireland, there could be no greater honour,” he said of his appointment.

“I am humbled by the invitation to serve my country in this way.”

Vickers is an Irish-Canadian from New Brunswick who had a lengthy career in the RCMP before joining the House of Commons security staff in 2005 and becoming sergeant-at-arms in 2006.

“Kevin Vickers has shown profound leadership and dedication to the security of Canada and its national institutions,” Prime Minister Stephen Harper said in a statement making the announcement Thursday.

“His extensive experience working with Parliament, as

well as his bravery and integrity, will serve to deepen close bilateral relations between Canada and Ireland in the years ahead.”

NDP Foreign Affairs critic Paul Dewar said Vickers will be missed on Parliament Hill: “For the last eight years, Mr. Vickers has been a strong and reassuring presence in the House of Commons. I know that he will continue to represent Canada with poise and honour as a diplomat.”

Vickers will replace Loyola Hearn, a former Conservative MP and cabinet minister who was appointed to the position in 2010.

In his statement, Vickers thanked Canadians for the support they have given him.

“You have my word that I will do my best to represent you in Ireland with pride and dignity.”

The Speaker of the House of Commons said deputy sergeant-at-arms Pat McDonell

Kevin Vickers, the hero who stopped an attack on Parliament Hill last year, was named as the Canadian Ambassador to Ireland.

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will handle security for the time being.

“Kevin Vickers has built a remarkable security team that does us proud each and every day,” Andrew Scheer said in a statement.

“He has forged personal connections with many parliamentarians, and so while this news is welcomed as an excellent recognition of his skills and abilities, we are somewhat sad to see him leave.” ■

The Sprott Shaw Difference

BY CHING DEE Philippine Canadian Inquirer Moving to a new place is never easy, even more so when it’s thousands of miles away you’re your closest family.

Most Filipinos make this life-changing journey to Canada in order to provide better lives for their loved ones back home. One of the biggest challenge for overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) is finding a job in Canada. Despite having a college degree and professional status in the Philippines, immigrants still need a degree from a Canadian institution to get a good shot at landing a job.

This is what Sprott Shaw Colleges take pride in: Equipping their students with the very best skills and tools.

We spoke with Russ Kada, Senior Regional Director of Admissions at Sprott Shaw Colleges, to talk about how Sprott Shaw prepares their students for their new lives in Canada.

“We are here to listen and support,” says Russ. “We are here with open arms to assist and give direction and guidance so newcomers can establish themselves here in Canada.”

Through the help of their welcoming and equally helpful staff, every student’s Sprott Shaw experience begins as smoothly as possible.

“Our Career Advisors walk students through the process and guide them step by step to help make them feel comfortable. Our advisors cover each requirement and document [needed] for their program or career of choice,” shares Russ.

“We want newcomers to feel comfortable and starting a new life or career in a new country is not as hard as one thinks,” he adds.

Most immigrants take courses related to health care, which will then prepare them to become skilled Health Care Assistants, Practical Nurses, and Community Support Workers, according to Russ.

RELEVANT SKILLS. MEANINGFUL JOBS. We asked about any curricular or class recommendations for newcomers and Russ said, “There’s [no] one class we recommend. It is all based on the individual.”

When it comes to choosing a course or degree, Russ believes that the choice should strike a balance between practicality and passion.

“Between the newcomer and our career advisor, we like to explore options and let them choose what they feel they would most enjoy, be most successful in, and ultimately finding employment in the

field of their choice,” he said.

There are currently 150 Filipino students enrolled at Sprott Shaw. According to Russ, they will have close to 200 by January 2015. Most of these students take courses in Health Care Assistance and Practical Nursing.

“They are very caring and family oriented,” Russ said about Filipinos. “It’s so nice to see how they care for everyone.”

Thanks to their strategically planned curriculum, each student will emerge with the competence to get a job in their chosen field.

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“At Sprott Shaw, we prepare students through hands on training. We focus on industry related training and a good portion of their health care program entails practicums and clinical training,” Russ explained.

Working in admissions and coordinating with EI, Worksafe BC, and Community Outreach Organizations, we asked what he considered as the most fulfilling part of his job.

“I love being a Regional Director,” he began. “I get to work with our Career Advisors. One of the areas I miss most is what Career Advisors get to see each day, and that is, seeing students grow and succeed. When you work with a newcomer and see them from the start (1st visit to the school) to the student ringing the bell (our students ring a bell back at the campus when they find employment), is by far the most fulfilling part of our job.”

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Canada is at war with the Islamic State movement: Harper

BY MURRAY BREWSTER The Canadian Press OTTAWA — Canada is at war with the Islamic State and will do what is necessary to eliminate the threat it poses, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said last Thursday.

His comments came as the military revealed that CF-18s have carried out another seven attacks in Iraq over the last couple of weeks.

A decision to extend the air mission, which is due to end in April, has not been made, but prime minister said when the time comes one of the criteria will be “the kind of risk it poses to our country.”

And Harper said the risk is significant.

“This is a movement that has declared war on Canada specifically and has shown it has the ability to develop the capacity to execute attacks on this soil,” he said at an event in Delta, B.C. His use of the word “war” is important because it carries specific, legal connotations and the government generally avoided using it during the long campaign against the Taliban in Afghanistan. The word does not appear in the parliamentary motion which authorized the mission in Iraq.

Underscoring that the campaign against extremists in Iraq is a war sets up and reinforces Canada’s responsibilities under international law, particularly when it comes to the treatment of any prisoners and in the protection of civilians.

The U.S. announced this week that it is reviewing data surrounding two coalition bombing missions — one in Iraq, the other in Syria — looking into concerns that civilians may have been killed.

The U.S. Central Command, which oversees coalition operations, says it is investigating those strikes and examining the

A Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CF-18 Hornet, 4-Wing, takes off from Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada. The Canadian military has carried out a series of attacks in Iraq against the Islamic State in the recent weeks, using CF-18s and other military equipment to attack strategic sites.

U.S. AIR FORCE / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

results of three other missions relate to missions in Syria. strikes — including missions on to see if reviews are warranted.

Canadian warplanes don’t Dec. 19, 20 and Jan. 1 — were in Since Canada joined the operate over Syria. support of Kurdish peshmerga bombing campaign in late OcA U.S. military official, in a forces. They recently broke tober, Canadian military offi- statement released earlier this the roughly four-month siege cials have said they are confi- week, said the cases under ac- of Mount Sinjar, where more dent no civilians have been hurt tive investigation were flagged than 10,000 Yazidis fled in Auby CF-18 missions. by the military’s own review gust to escape massacres. It was Brig.- Gen. their plight that Dan Constable, prompted the the Canadian U.S. to organize task force comthe air campaign. mander, said ‘This is a movement that has A defence exThursday Canadeclared war on Canada specifically pert in Washdian missions and has shown it has the ability to ington says limare not part of develop the capacity to execute iting civilian the coalition inattacks on this soil,’ he said at an casualties is imvestigation. event in Delta, B.C. portant, but the “That I am U.S. should not aware of, we have let the fear of it not had any reporting of any of the damage and not by com- paralyze the air campaign. The civilian casualties associated plaints. coalition has a responsibility with any of our strikes,” he said.

Canadian fighters, as of to uphold the laws of war, but Washington took a similar Wednesday, had flown over it is facing an enemy that delibline until just recently when 200 sorties in support of the erately uses civilians as shields it acknowledged it is looking air campaign to dislodge the Is- and will exploit western integinto claims that innocents were lamic State in Iraq and the Le- rity to its advantage. caught in 18 separate strikes vant from territory it seized last “Human rights and the laws aimed at Islamic State mili- summer. of war become political and tants. Most of the accusations Some of the more recent military weapons in the hands

of terrorists and extremists that have no practical limits and constraints,” said Anthony Cordesman of the Center for Strategic and International Studies.

While the U.S. and Canada have fought these kinds of wars before in Afghanistan, Cordesman says the Islamic State has brought the use of human shields to a higher level.

There is no such thing as a “perfect war,” he says.

“The United States is also again fighting a movement in the Islamic State (or Daesh) which will do everything possible to exaggerate civilian casualties for propaganda purposes, claim its own casualties are civilians and claim its own facilities are civilian facilities.”

The Pentagon, however, acknowledged this week the reports it has received come from various sources, including the media, non-governmental organizations and other U.S. government agencies. ■

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Terror suspect arrested at Montreal airport had plane ticket to India

BY JIM BRONSKILL The Canadian Press OTTAWA — The RCMP swooped in on an alleged terrorist conspiracy because one of the suspects was about to get on a plane to India, The Canadian Press has learned.

The Mounties have charged three young Ottawa men — including twin brothers — with various terrorism-related offences.

On Monday, the RCMP charged Suliman Mohamed, 21, with participation in the activity of a terrorist group.

Mohamed was also charged with conspiracy to participate in a terrorist activity with two other Ottawa men.

On Friday, 24-year-old twins Ashton Carleton Larmond and Carlos Honor Larmond of Ottawa were charged with various terrorism-related offences.

The RCMP says Carlos was arrested at the Montreal’s Pierre Elliott Trudeau Airport as he was intending to travel overseas for terrorist purposes. The Mounties did not say where he was headed.

The Canadian Press has since learned he was bound for India, though it is unclear if that was his final destination.

Ashton, who played pickup hockey on a men’s team, was arrested in Ottawa.

Joseph Addelman, a lawyer for the brothers, said Saturday they planned to vigorously dispute the charges. They are due for a second court appearance Feb. 12.

Mohamed was scheduled to appear in court Tuesday morning.

But as of Monday very little was publicly known about what the three were alleged to have done.

The arrests underscore the reality that there are individuals in Canada who have become radicalized to a vio-

lent ideology, “and who are willing to act upon it,” said Chief Supt. Jennifer Strachan, criminal operations officer for the RCMP in Ontario.

The RCMP thanked Integrated National Security Enforcement Team partners from the Ottawa police service and the Ontario provincial police.

The Mounties said they would not be providing additional details, given that the matter was now before the courts.

The Harper government is contemplating new laws in response to the October 2014 attacks in which two soldiers — one at the National War Memorial, the other in St-Jean-sur-Richelieu, Que. — were killed in broad daylight.

It has also introduced long-promised changes to strengthen the ability of Canada’s spy service to probe terror suspects overseas.

Canada and other western nations fear that citizens who go abroad to take part in the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant’s guerrilla-style battles could come home with intent to do harm.

The latest arrests have rekindled discussion about homegrown radicalization.

Young Muslims who took part in federally sponsored forums in four Ontario cities last year came away with some useful information about recognizing signs of extremism, but they were still unsure who to contact or what to do about it, says a federal account of the sessions.

Post-event surveys indicated participants found the meetings in Hamilton, St. Catharines, London and Windsor “engaging and relevant,” say the records released under the Access to Information Act. However, they had little idea of what to do “once they see signs that someone may be going down the path to violent extremism.” ■

A look at the information crash investigators get from cockpit voice and flight data recorders

BY SCOTT MAYEROWITZ The Canadian Press NEW YORK — Investigators trying to figure out why AirAsia Flight 8501 crashed into the Java Sea on Dec. 28 might now have the tools they need to provide answers.

On Monday the flight’s data recorder was pulled up from the bottom of the shallow sea. The cockpit voice recorder was also located but not yet surfaced. It could take up to two weeks to analyze all the data on the so-called black boxes.

Based on past crashes, the information retrieved could be vital.

The two separate devices — actually orange boxes designed to survive extreme heat and pressure — should provide investigators with a second-by-second timeline of the plane’s flight.

The voice recorder takes audio feeds

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from four microphones within the cockpit and records all the conversations between the pilots, air traffic controllers as well as any noises heard in the cockpit.

That could be alarms going off or loud explosions. It records on a two-hour loop, so investigators here won’t just capture the plane’s final minutes but the entire 42-minute trip.

The flight data recorder captures 25 hours’ worth of information on the position and condition of almost every major part in a plane.

Some of the major items recorded include: altitude, airspeed, what rate the plane is climbing or descending, what direction of the compass it was flying toward, what angle up or down it was pointed, if the plane was leaning to the left or the right, the thrust of the engines, rate at which fuel was flowing to ❱❱ PAGE 43 A look at

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Pope Francis

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The Pope of Firsts

BY CHING DEE Philippine Canadian Inquirer EVER SINCE he was chosen as the Leader of the Catholic Church on March 13, 2003, Argentine cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio has been making history as Pope Francis.

Many have called him radical—shocked by his different yet refreshing approach to his job title. Countless times he was admired for his extraordinary humility despite leading millions of faithfuls around the globe.

With his radical approach to papacy, blazing a trail of firsts is inevitable. Here are some of Pope Francis’ incredible (and historical) acts of kindness, humility, and grace that surely made His Holiness a household name—whether you share the Catholic faith or not.

First non-European pontiff

Pope Francis is the first nonEuropean modern day pope. He is the first Jesuit pope of Latin American descent.

Even during meetings with cardinals, 76-year-old former He is also the first pope to have Archbishop from Buenos Aires the name Francis. His choice is refused to use the platform to said to be from St. Francis of distinguish himself from the Assissi, who is revered by the other priests in attendance. poor for living a simple life and “He said, ‘I’ll stay down here.’ avoiding luxury. Since the day He met each of us on our own he was announced as pope, he level,” New York Archbishop lived up to his chosen papal First rebel?

Timothy Dolan recalled. name—wearing humble priest Some would say that Pope “As you know, the duty of robes instead of the conclave the papal regal was to appoint clothing. He also a new Bishop lives in a simple of Rome,” Pope hotel apartment He is conservative when it comes to Francis said. instead of the pathe Catholic doctrine, but his ways of “It seems to me pal palace. Even making himself more accessible that my brother back in Argento more people is seen as him cardinals have tina, he was said being a reformist. chosen one who to take the bus is from faraway. to work instead But here I am. I of the usual chauffeured limou- Francis is no stickler for tradi- would like to thank you for your sine. tion. In fact, on his very first embrace.” day as pope, he refused to be CNN Vatican analyst John First prayer request dressed in regalia and preferred Allen even said, “the new pope On that fateful Wednesday to meet the people in his usual is sending a signal that this will that Pope Francis was intro- priest clothes. not be business as usual.” duced to the world from the “We have a pope who probHis radical ways inspired VatVatican balcony, he made his- ably upset some people tonight ican analysts to coin the term tory. Instead of raising his by not following the formula,” “Bergoglio Paradox” to describe hands to the crowd waiting for the Rev. Tom Rosica said in a his approach: he is conservative him at St. Peter Square and CNN report. when it comes to the Catholic First Francis

blessing then, he asked the crowd—150,000 strong—to do something for him.

“If I can ask a favor before the bishop blesses you, I ask you pray for me,” asked Pope Francis. “Let us say this prayer, your prayer for me, in silence.”

doctrine, but his ways of making himself more accessible to more people is seen as him being a reformist. Just some of his reforms include support for HIV victims and baptism of illegitimate children. He has also become very vocal when it comes to embracing the members of the LGBTQ community.

“Tell me, when God looks at a gay person, does he endorse the existence of this person with love, or reject and condemn this person?” His Holiness asked in August 2013.

One of the earliest instances that Bergoglio showed his own brand of being pope was during a dinner after his appointment when he displayed his sense of humor and humility.

Vatican spokesperson Father Federico Lombardi recalled that night. The Pope thanked the cardinals and then said in jest, “May God forgive you for what you have done.”

He shocked the cardinals even more when insisted on paying the bill.

“We are not used to all this,” Father Lombardi said. ■

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The Life of Pope Francis — Then and Now

BY LEI FONTAMILLAS Philippine Canadian Inquirer ONCE IN a lifetime, you will meet a person so powerful, that everything he does — simple or not — motivates you to follow suit, and perhaps learn a thing or two. This is the exact feeling that both Catholics and nonCatholics share toward His Holiness Pope Francis.

Many people see Pope Francis, who used to be Cardinal Jorge Mario Bergoglio of Buenos Aires, as a revolutionary and modern leader of the Catholic Church. He has his fair share of quirks, but his simple manners and humble lifestyle continue to inspire people from across the world.

But how well do you know him?

His Early Life and Interests

Pope Francis was born on December 17, 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina to Italian parents Mario and Regina.

After graduating from high

school, he enrolled at the Uni- in good health. his school, the Philosophical versity of Buenos Aires where He is fond of sports, particu- and Theological Faculty of San he received his master’s degree larly football. Pope Francis is Miguel, to serve as the univerin chemistry. Prior to being the said to be a supporter of the San sity’s rector from 1980 to 1986. reigning pope of the Catholic Lorenzo de Almagro football He also taught theology to the Church, Bergoglio worked as a club. Aside from this, he enjoys students. nightclub bouncer and a chemi- Tita Merello Films, tango dancHe was named titular bishop cal technician. He entered the ing, and traditional Argentin- of Auca in June 1992, and latseminary on March 11, 1958 at ean music. er on became the auxiliary of the Society of JeBuenos Aires. In sus.

February, 1998 He continBergoglio was ued to study and assigned to be earned a degree the archbishop in philosophy of Buenos Aires. from the PhiloBoth Time and Advocate magazines After three sophical and named the Pope as ‘Person of the years, Pope John Theological Year’ in December 2013 because of Paul II promoted Faculty of San his efforts in reforming the Roman him to cardinal.

Miguel.

Later Curia and at the same time changing He earned the on, he received the doctrine of the Catholic Church title cardinala doctorate in on various controversial issues. priest of Saint theology in GerRobert Bellarmmany. ine. This was just The only the start of the health crisis that greater things he endured was that he achieved a life-threatening case of pneu- On His Path to Priesthood for in 2005, he was selected to monia when he was 21 years In 1969, following his ordain- become the president of the old. The condition left him with ment as a priest, Bergoglio be- Bishops’ Conference of Argenhalf a lung being barely func- gan to serve as Jesuit provincial tina. Bergoglio served in the tional. But apart from that, he is of Argentina. He returned to said position until 2011.

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When Pope John Paul II died in April 2005, it was Joseph Ratzinger (Pope Benedict XVI) who won the 2005 papal election. However, reports claimed that Bergoglio came in a close second.

His Election as Pope

Pope Benedict XVI resigned from his position in 2013, citing health reasons. This sudden decision left the Roman Catholic Church with no other choice but to find a replacement who will lead them.

On March 13, 2013, the 76-year-old Jorge Bergoglio was selected to be the 266th pope on the second day of the papal conclave. He is the first Jesuit priest, the first non-European, and first citizen from the Americas to be elected pope.

He took on the name “Francis” after St. Francis of Assisi.

He is also the first pope who opted to have a new name than taking on another name from a former pope. ❱❱ PAGE 24 The Life

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The Life...

On his first public appearance at the Saint Peter’s Basilica, he surprised everybody by wearing a simple white cassock and not the red, erminetrimmed mozzetta used by the previous popes. He also decided to wear the same iron pectoral cross that he had worn since his days as Cardinal Bishop of Buenos Aires rather than a new gold cross.

“As you know, the duty of the conclave was to appoint a bishop of Rome. It seems to me that my brother cardinals have chosen one who is from faraway… here I am. I would like to thank you for your embrace,” stated Pope Francis in front of a crowd of tens of thousands in St. Peter’s Square.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Barack Obama also congratulated the Pope. In his statement, Obama said: “As the first pope from the Americas, his selection also speaks to the strength and vitality of a region that is increasingly shaping our world, and alongside millions of Hispanic Americans, those of us in the United States share the joy of this historic day.”

During the election, he was seen as a strong contender.

However, fellow Argentineans already ruled him out because of his age. But everybody was taken aback when the white smoke came out of the bell, signifying that a new pope has been selected and that new pope is no other than Jorge Bergoglio. Argentinians were ecstatic.

He is best known in Argentina for delivering impactful sermons. He speaks for the people, and he is for the people. Pope Francis usually talks about social inclusion. He criticized politicians who did not pay attention to the poor in the margins of society. As a matter of fact, there have been rumors about Pope Francis sneaking away at night to share and give food ❰❰ 23

to the impoverished, spending hours with them, talking and breaking bread.

Francesca Ambrogetti, a writer who co-authored a biography of Pope Francis, told Reuters news agency in an interview that one of the reasons why people are drawn easily to the Pope is because of his “sober and austere humble lifestyle.” As a matter of fact, even when he was the Cardinal of Buenos Aires, he opted to live in a simple flat. In Rome, he always keeps his black robe on.

He even re-used the cardinal vest of his predecessor.

His Uncompromising Nature

Monsigno Osvaldo Musto, Pope Francis’ colleague at the seminary, claimed that people who barely know the Pope doubt his conservative credentials.

“He’s as uncompromising as Pope John Paul II, in terms of the principles of the Church — everything it has defended regarding euthanasia, the death penalty, abortion, the right to life, human rights, celibacy of priests,” said Musto.

As a matter of fact, the Pope’s views have been tested several times when he was still in Argentina. The Latin American country was the first to legalize same-sex marriage under President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner.

Pope Francis also has strong opinions regarding gay adoptions. He once said that he is not in the position to judge a homosexual should he/she come to him asking for mercy.

Despite his disagreements with the Argentinean president, the latter welcomed and accepted the election to the papacy of a fellow countryman.

Fernandez even noted that the Pope’s choice of name fits him because he is very much like St. Francis of Assisi, who was known for unifying “all humans as equal, with fellowship, with

love, with justice and equity.”

Aside from this, the Pope is also a strong Argentine patriot.

He is a firm supporter of the Argentine veterans of the Falklands War. He told them, “We come to pray for all who have fallen, sons of the Homeland who went out to defend their mother, the Homeland, and to reclaim what is theirs.”

His Leadership Style

Since becoming pope, he never stopped pursuing his mission of helping the impoverished, and has always been on the forefront of addressing economic inequality.

In his first major work titled “Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel),” he stated that “the worship of the ancient golden calf…has returned in a new and ruthless guise in the idolatry of money and the dictatorship of an impersonal economy.”

This is one of the first pieces of evidence that suggests how Pope Francis is planning on starting radical reforms to the Vatican bureaucracy. This, furthermore, generated more followers for him. As a matter of fact, he has already formed a team made up of eight cardinals from the Holy See’s administration that will look into ways of how they can reshape and improve the bureaucracy.

He is also known for being simple and humble. Compared with his predecessor, Pope Francis is less formal. If there are things that he can do on his own, such as make his own phone calls, he does it without the assistance of a secretary. As a matter of fact, there have been stories circulating about people who were surprised to receive the call of the Pope.

Pope Francis is also a firm advocate of mercy. He once shared that the most powerful message that came from Jesus Christ is all about mercy.

He uses his motto, Miserando atque eligendo, that talks about

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Jesus’ mercy towards sinners.

The phrase was inspired from the story of Jesus and the tax collector. Rather than judging the tax collector because of his job, Jesus Christ chose him to be his follower. The Pope shared that this story is almost the same as how he found love in priesthood at 17.

When he was still a cardinal, he said that morality is not an effort of the will but more as a response to God’s mercy. His belief in mercy is evident in his teachings. On the first Sunday that he was scheduled to do the Gospel reading, he talked about Jesus’ forgiveness of the woman who committed adultery. He shared that will never get tired of forgiving the human race because He is the merciful and ever loving God. Every person who will ask for forgiveness will receive it.

His Public Image

The media is very fond of Pope Francis. It is safe to say that he is perhaps one of the most influential and well-loved leaders of the Catholic Church.

Many see him as a progressive papal reformer, while others think that he has liberal and moderate values.

According to the Vatican, most Western news outlets aim to deliver the Pope’s message with a more relaxed and less-doctrinal tone in hopes of further building his image as a merciful and tolerant pope.

Both Time and Advocate magazines named the Pope as “Person of the Year” in December 2013 because of his efforts in reforming the Roman Curia and at the same time changing the doctrine of the Catholic Church on various controversial issues.

Meanwhile, he was named “Best Dressed Man” by Esquire magazine because of his choice in simpler dressing compared to his predecessors. Most of his garments are very conservative with a modern design on sartorial fashion. Likewise, Rolling Stone and Fortune paid tribute to the Pope by making him the featured front cover and naming him the first in the 50 greatest leaders list, respectively.

Barely two years into his servitude, Pope Francis has truly revolutionized the Catholic Church in his own way. He was able to earn the respect of people from all walks of life and encouraged them to lead a life worthy for the Lord. ■

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VIVA, IL PAPA!

Papal visits to the Philippines, in a nutshell. Sort of.

BY ANGIE DUARTE Philippine Canadian Inquirer IN THE eyes of millions of Catholics the world over, there is perhaps no other person– next to Jesus Christ, Himself — more revered than the Pope.

The Holy Father is considered the head of the Roman Catholic Church, and successor to Saint Peter. Although humanly appointed, the pontiff is believed to be divinely commissioned to lead the faithful and serve as the rallying point of their faith.

He is, for all intents and purposes, THE Rock Star of Roman Catholicism.

So one can only imagine the hullaballoo and eager anticipation that grips a predominantly Roman Catholic country such as the Philippines in the months, weeks and days leading up to a papal visit: Security preparations are in full swing, itineraries have been mapped, kinks ironed out, and adult diapers purchased for every traffic enforcer and police person as-

signed to papal detail. Sound s like a joke, you say? Nope. The diapers are mandatory. The powers that be have spoken thusly.

Humour aside. Pope Francis’ upcoming visit to the Philippines is as highly touted as it is highly regarded. He comes with a message of mercy and compassion, and aims to bring hope to scores of Filipinos affected by natural disasters so notorious on these 7,107 islands. On his agenda: Masses, motorcades, prayer rallies, speeches, meals with the downtrodden and impoverished, and a trip to Yolanda-devastated Palo in the Tacloban City.

The Philippines waits with baited breath.

Third Pope’s a charm

Pope Francis — definitely among the more controversial of popes, on account of his often non-traditional views — is the third Pope to visit the Philippines.

The first papal visit was in November of 1970, when Pope

Street signs welcoming Pope Francis to Manila for the papal visit this week.

PNA

Paul VI stepped off the Alitalia plane and onto Philippine soil.

He almost did not live to tell the tale. A would-be assassin lay in wait for him on the tarmac of the Manila International Airport.

Pope John Paul II visited the Philippines twice within his 27year rule as Supreme Pontiff.

His first mission to the country was in February of 1981. He returned in January 1995, during which his life was almost put in jeopardy.

The current pope will be the

www.canadianinquirer.net

third Holy Father to visit the nation, but his trip marks the fourth papal mission to the country in a span of four and a half decades.

A murder attempt, a karate chop, and a deathbed confession

The arrival of Pope Paul VI in the Philippines was momentous, in more ways than one.

Paul VI’s trip was the first time since 1809 that a pontiff would travel outside of Italy. It was also the first time for a pope to

visit the Western Hemisphere, Africa, and Asia during his rule.

Paul VI visited six continents, and was given the moniker “Pilgrim Pope.”

His visit to the Philippines was momentous also because as soon as the pontiff disembarked from the plane and stepped onto the tarmac of the country’s international airport on November 27, 1970, he was attacked with a knife by Benjamín Mendoza y Amor Flores, a Bolivian surrealist painter. In a stroke of art imitating life, the moment was more than a touch surreal as Mendoza, dressed as a priest, lunged with a blade at Paul VI. Making it even more surreal was then President Ferndiand Marcos’ claim that he was “used as God’s instrument “ to save the pope’s life. Marcos claimed to having dealt the would-be assassin a “karate chop” to the hand, causing Mendoza to drop the knife. This claim is based upon an entry of the former ❱❱ PAGE 34 Papal visits

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Seen & Scenes: Vancouver

JANUARY 16, 2015

FRIDAY

PM HARPER PM Stephen Harper recently visited British Columbia to announce Canada’s Apprentice Loan Program and to urge employers to take on apprentices (Photos from Jojo Quimpo’s FB).

U.P. ALUMNI BOARD MEETING Officers of the University of the Philippines Alumni Association of B.C. during their first board meeting on Jan. 11.

MABLE'S CAMPAIGN Filipino-Canadian MLA Mable Elmore, who is seeking the NDP nomination for the federal riding of Vancouver East, held several meetings with members of the Filipino community who are eager to stay involved.

ATI-ATIHAN The Aklanon Sto. Nino Association of B.C. held an Ati-Atihan Festival in Vancouver to honor the Infant Jesus. Here are highlights of the 34th annual celebration (Photos by Angelo Siglos).

For photo submissions, please email info@canadianinquirer.net. www.canadianinquirer.net

Seen & Scenes: Toronto

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

27

INDUCTION OF OFFICERS

Philippine Consul General Junever Mahilum – West swears in 2015 - 2016 officers Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation officers and foundation leaders.

TALAKAYAN

PCCF group photo with Finance Minister Joe Oliver, Senator Tobias C. Enverga, Jr., wife Rosemer and Congen Mahilum-West.

Toronto’s Talakayan Radyo broadcasters during the interview hour with Philippine Consul-General Junever Mahilum-West on Jan. 10. 2015.

HOUSE OF THE LORD The members of the congregation of the Friends of Jesus Christ Canada (FJCC), a full-gospel community church are inviting fellow Christians to join their worships during Sundays, according to Romeo Ayson Zetazate, a coordinator of FJCC seniors group. The congregation is headed by Pastor Teck Uy and the House of the Lord Church is located at 181 Nugget Ave., Scarborough, On. Call (416) 335-8829 or write to Pastor Teck at teck.uy@sympatico.ca. (St. Jamestown News Service, DO/MP)

<< Canada’s Finance Minister Joe Oliver (middle) and member of parliament representing Ontario's Eglinton - Lawrence Riding is shown in photo with (from L) Simeon Sarte, Ontario's branch manager of I- Remit (International Remittance (Canada) Ltd) and wife, Cheri Francisco Sarte; Anna Carina Eusebio, manager of UMAC Forwarders Express Inc. and husband, Andrew Eusebio during the induction of officers of the Philippine Canadian Charitable Foundation (PCCF) at Delta Toronto East Hotel.

(St. Jamestown News Service, Romy Zetazate)

GRASSROOTS MOVEMENT Filipino-Canadian community leaders met to organize a grassroots movement toward "Achieving a Stronger and Supportive Pinoy Community" in the Greater Toronto Area.

In photo after their 2nd consultative meeting on Jan. 10, at FV Foods are: (seated) Ralph Logatoc, Mann Nacario and Tony A. San Juan (convenor). (standing from L ): Rodel Ramos, Chris Sorio, Ronnie Dela Gana, Deo Moreno (rapporteur), Pura Velasco, Jesse Pacetes, Randy Bucao, Joey Abrenilla, Michelle Serrano, Alberto Rodil, Pastor Julius Tianson, and Joseph Redoblado (interim rapporteur). (Not in photo): Ben and Paulina Corpuz, Atty.Rafael Fabregas, Susan Llanera, and Trustee Garry Tanuan. www.canadianinquirer.net

28

Community News

JANUARY 16, 2015

FRIDAY

Richmond’s snow angels are back and ready to help RICHMOND, B.C. — For the sixth consecutive year, Richmond’s volunteer snow angels are back and ready to lend a hand to those in need of assistance this winter. Heavy snowfall can cause challenges for some Richmond residents including elderly citizens and persons with health or mobility challenges and volunteers can help by removing snow from sidewalks, walkways and driveways.

If you are in need of assistance, or there is an advanced forecast of a winter storm with an estimate of five centimetres or more of snow, contact a snow angel coordinator by calling City Hall at 604-276-4000, the

Community Services Department at 604-244-1208 or your closest community centre. A full contact list of snow angel coordinators can be found at www.richmond.ca/winter.

This program is volunteerdriven and is dependent on resources, severity of the storm and the priority needs of callers. Although assistance is not guaranteed, participating volunteers will make every effort to help all qualified callers.

If you would like to become a snow angel volunteer, recruitment is now underway. You may select the geographic community you wish to serve or you can choose to provide your ser-

Programs Coordinator at 604247-4453 or parks@richmond. ca for more information.

In addition to the Snow Angels program, the City of Richmond encourages its residents and community members to Be a Good Neighbour. This program is as simple as able-bodied residents assisting those who may not be able to clear their walkways in front of their homes. ■

SNOW ANGELS. A volunteer helps by removing snow from sidewalks and walkways.

vices city-wide. The choice is

Huge support for sushi fest prompts venue change TORONTO’S OVERWHELMING support for the first and largest Toronto Sushi Festival on Mar. 5 and 6, 2015, has prompted organizers to change to a bigger venue to deliver a better experience to festival guests. The new venue is at the Japanese Canadian Cultural Center, at 6 Garamond Court, in Toronto, On. The JCCC, one of the largest and most vibrant Japanese cultural centres in the world, promises to give guests an authentic sushi festival experience. The world class venue attracts over 200,000 people to its festivals, concerts, martial arts tournaments and special events annually. Festival organizers are not surprised by Toronto’s initial response since there are over 500 sushi restaurants in the city.

People should not miss the chance to join the 2015 Toronto Sushi Festival where the best sushi recipes available in the different parts of the country will be showcased. Celebrity chefs Susur Lee of The Food Network and Dennis Tay of Top Chef Canada are among the exciting participants in the festival. Activities include live demonstrations, live entertainment, open mic karaoke, door prizes and a full service VIP lounge. This will be a guaranteed sold out event organized to achieve a perfect guest to vendor ratio.

Early bird tickets have already been sold out. Sushi lovers are advised to get their tickets now at https://torontosushifestival.eventbrite.ca while they are still available.

For more information on the

festival visit www.sushifestival. ca, become a fan at Facebook: www.facebook.com/TorontoSushiFestival or follow @SushiToronto on Twitter. Doors open at 5 p.m. and close at 10 p.m. for the two-day event. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

yours. Simply contact the Parks

For more information on other snow removal services, volunteering as a snow angel, and other winter preparedness information, visit www.richmond.ca/winter.

Canada invests $100k for apprentice loans CANADA IS facing a labour prentice Loans. shortage.

Starting in 2015, at least MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay 26,000 apprentices a year will of Delta-Richmond East said, benefit from loans of up to “Our country will need a mil- $4,000 per period of technilion new skilled workers by cal training. Findlay also said 2020, on top of the nearly three the loans will be interest-free million currently until the recipiworking. These ent completes include the 57 or leaves their Red Seal trades training proranging from gram. plumbers and “These new electricians, to loans will help bakers to sheet The apprentices metal workers, government is struggling to and truck meinvesting over complete their chanics.” $100 million vocational trainAccording to per year in ing. They will Findlay, the barthe future encourage more riers to getting of Canada’s Canadians to these jobs are skilled seek exciting real – apprenwork force new opportuniticeships require through the ties in the skilled time in a classnew Canada trades. They will room, which Apprentice also help cover means lost wages Loans. lost wages, housand educational ing costs, and fees. As a result, pay for tools and only a small fracequipment,” she tion of Canadiexplained. ans who enter an Apprenticeapprenticeship ship training make it all the way through. plays a key role in our postShe said the government secondary education system. is investing over $100 mil- These skilled workers will help lion per year in the future of power and grow Canada’s econCanada’s skilled work force omy to 2020 and beyond, Findthrough the new Canada Ap- lay added. ■

World News

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

29

GOP ignores veto threats, presses attacks on Obama on Keystone pipeline, immigration, Wall Street

BY ERICA WERNER The Associated Press WASHINGTON — Defiant congressional Republicans attacked President Barack Obama’s agenda from all sides Tuesday, ignoring veto threats and pushing bills to uproot his policies on immigration and Wall Street, force approval of energy pipeline legislation he opposes and make him justify any new federal rules before he makes them.

Obama invited his antagonists to the White House for their first face-to-face meeting since the new Republicancontrolled Congress convened.

But their show of cordiality for the cameras did little to mask the partisan hostilities between Capitol Hill and the White House.

“The key now is for us to work as a team,” said Obama, who has issued five veto threats with the new Congress not yet two weeks old. He cited taxes, trade and cybersecurity as areas for potential co-operation, and also told lawmakers he would work with them to come up with a proposal to authorize military force against the Islamic State group.

Back at the Capitol, the Senate debated legislation to force the administration to allow construction of the Canada-toTexas Keystone XL oil pipeline.

And the House passed a regulatory reform bill that the White House says would impose “unprecedented and unnecessary” requirements on agencies trying to write rules. It would require more justifications and notice.

That was to be followed by votes Wednesday on two other bills: One would alter a key section of the 2010 Dodd-Frank financial overhaul in a way that would help banks, and the other would block Obama’s executive actions on immigration, including removal of protections for immigrants who arrived in the country illegally as children.

The Keystone bill passed the House last week and is expected to clear the Senate next week and head to Obama’s desk.

Obama has threatened to veto all four pieces of legislation. Far from cowed, with the

US President Barack Obama has issued five veto threats with the new Republican controlled Congress that is not even two weeks old.

THE WHITE HOUSE / FLICKR

Senate in GOP hands for the Committee that they already bills that face an uncertain first time in eight years Repub- know this president strongly future, at best, in the Senate lican lawmakers are ready to opposes,” he said.

— where the GOP remains six make him do it.

Republicans had no plans to vote shorts of the 60-vote ma“I’m a member of Congress; stop there. jority needed to advance most I’m not a potted plant. I don’t Citing the terrorist attacks in issues — and certain rejection take my orders from the White Paris, Republican senators on by Obama.

House,” said Rep. Charlie Dent, Tuesday proposed restrictions House Judiciary CommitR-Pa., after Republicans met on Obama’s ability to transfer tee Chairman Bob Goodlatte behind closed doors to discuss terror suspects out of the fed- of Virginia said his bill on regutheir strategy. “There’s a new eral prison at Guantanamo Bay, lations would take aim at the sheriff in the Senate, and so he’s Cuba, for the remainder of his “endlessly escalating, excessive not going to have federal regulaa compliant matory costs” unjority leader in der the Obama the Senate who’s administragoing to bottle In the first five days that they’ve been tion. The White up and bury evin session, they’ve advanced five House objected erything.” pieces of legislation all the way to the that it would In contrast to Rules Committee that they already “create needless the president’s know this president strongly confusion and tone of co-opopposes. delay.” The legeration, White islation passed House press 250 to 175. secretary Josh The bill on Earnest chided Republican term — making it more difficult Wall Street reforms — which lawmakers, saying the GOP’s for Obama to fulfil his goal of would give U.S. banks an addiapproach to the opening days of closing the facility. tional two years to ensure that the new Congress raises ques“Now is not the time to be their holdings of certain risky tions “about how serious they emptying Guantanamo,” Sen. securities don’t put them afoul are about trying to work with Kelly Ayotte of New Hampshire of a new banking rule — was no the president.” told reporters. sure bet to pass the Senate.

“In the first five days that The contentious politics And on immigration, even they’ve been in session, they’ve of divided government were some Republican senators were advanced five pieces of legis- on stark display as the House skeptical of the approach being lation all the way to the Rules moved forward on a series of taken in the House, where Rewww.canadianinquirer.net

publicans were using a $39.7 billion spending bill, which would keep the Homeland Security Department running past February, as the vehicle to overturn Obama’s executive actions.

One amendment to be voted on Wednesday would undo steps Obama announced in November to allow deportation reprieves and work permits to 4 million immigrants in the country illegally. Another would nullify his 2012 action to allow more than 600,000 immigrants brought illegally to the country as children to stay and work here legally.

“Our response shouldn’t be on the funding bill,” said Sen. Jeff Flake, R-Ariz., and some House Republicans acknowledged that the Senate was likely to reject their approach, perhaps forcing them in the end to pass a Homeland Security funding bill stripped of controversial language on immigration.

“One way or another we have to get DHS funding,” said Rep. Pete King, R-N.Y. “Hopefully sane minds will prevail, we can make some compromises and get it done.” ■

Immigration

30

JANUARY 16, 2015

FRIDAY

Additional 10,000 Syrian refugees to be offered asylum by Canadian government

BY STEPHANIE LEVITZ The Canadian Press OTTAWA — A promise to 10,000 Syrian refugees that they will be able to find safe haven in Canada in the next three years needs to be backed up by a better system to get them here, advocates said Wednesday.

Communities are willing and able to take in those seeking shelter from the brutal violence in Syria, but changes are needed to the asylum program, refugee groups and opposition politicians say.

“We have a problem in our refugee resettlement system: very long delays, limitations on who you can sponsor — there are issues to be addressed and these issues will remain,” said Faisal Al Azem of the Syrian Canadian Council.

“But that number is a huge step forward, so in that sense we are thankful and positive.”

The Conservative govern- with Canada’s strong humani- also to the private sponsors ment made the new commit- tarian tradition to offer re- who will be carrying quite a ment after months of pleading settlement to refugees world- load on this,” said Debbie Dougfrom refugee groups and Syrian wide.” las, executive director of the Canadians for a drastic increase But many are taking a wait- Ontario Council of Agencies in the number of spaces avail- and-see approach to whether Serving Immigrants. able to Syrian refugees. that promise will be kept.

“If we can do economic immiAn estimated 3.2 million peoIn the summer of 2013, the grants in six months, we can do ple have been displaced by the Conservatives agreed to reset- refugee asylum seekers in six ongoing civil war in the country tle 1,300 Syrians by the end of months.” and the United Private sponNations High sors will be Commissioner asked to take in for Refugees had roughly 60 per hoped to resettle We have a problem in our refugee cent of the newly 100,000 globresettlement system: very long delays, identified 10,000 ally by the end of limitations on who you can sponsor — refugees and the 2016. there are issues to be addressed and government will Canada’s new these issues will remain. resettle the rest. pledge is the anMany private swer to that call, groups had said said Immigrathey were caught tion Minister Chris Alexander.

2014, but it took months to get off-guard by the 2013 program, “We do this not only because the program going and the full creating initial delays in the we can, but because it is right commitment is not expected to application process that were and just,” Alexander said in a be met until March of this year. further complicated by bureaustatement.

“We need to ensure the pro- cratic back-ups.

The UNHCR welcomed the cess really will be timely and A spokesman for Alexander announcement as “in keeping responsive to the refugees, but did not answer a question about

what, if any, changes were being implemented.

The NDP’s Paul Dewar said he’s glad the government’s made the promise, but isn’t convinced they’ll fill it.

“This was an announcement.

We want to see an action plan to realize the actual pronouncement of the government,” he said.

“If we don’t see actual details on how they’re going to do it, this will be just like previous announcements.... If they couldn’t do 1,300 in a year and a half, how is it they going to do 10,000 in three years?”

In addition to more Syrian refugees, the government announced a further increase to its commitment to those from Iraq, saying an additional 3,000 would be resettled by the end of 2015, on top of the 20,000 already in Canada.

They also announced an additional $90 million in humanitarian assistance for the region. ■

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31

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Entertainment JUAN RADIO ENTERTAINMENT NOTES

Filipino balikbayan singer Timmy Pavino makes it to Season 2 TVOP live knockout rounds

BY BABES NEWLAND

THE SONG: OPM “Narito” by Gary Valenciano. The backdrop: Season 2 of ABS-CBN’s The Voice of The Philippines. A perfect setting matched by fluid, flawless vocal power by the dashing Team Lea gent, Timothy “Timmy” Pavino.

Taking bold chances, Timmy tackled a ditty he has never sang before. “Narito” by OPM stalwart Gary V was a tough song choice. Unskillful young male singers will have difficulty pulling it off without their voices crackling like pre-pubescent boys when they get to the song’s “bridge” and “outro”. Timmy’s honed vocal calisthenics produced a sound of pure intensity and clarity. His vocal dynamics was supreme. His head tones were pristine. His falsettos, divine. Progressing from the song’s bridge to “collision” was effortless; even as he was pushing his natural chest register beyond its normal limits. What a treat. What a fun performance to watch of an emotionally laden love song.

Timothy John Inocentes Pavino moved to the Philippines from his native hometown Kirkland WA a few years back to look after his ageing paternal grandmother. A conscious decision he made in honor of his late father who was an only

Timmy Pavino.

child. Timmy packed his bags to Born to a clan of musical roy- biggest OPM icons of all time. be with his octogenarian grand- alty, Timmy’s uncle Arnaldo She produced sensational hits mother, Lola Rosie, at the age is dubbed as Seattle’s premier like Ikaw Ang Lahat Sa Akin, of 21. And never How Did You looked back Know, Reaching since. Little did Out and many he know that his more. journey is going At a very young age, Timmy learned Timmy beto be an interestthe deep true meaning of loving came a Youtube ing rollercoaster unconditionally. sensation as ride of tending to he was growhis Lola Rosie’s ing up in Kirkpersonal/physiland.

To-date, cal needs while realizing his drag artist. His maternal grand- he produced three indie aldream to establishing a career mother was a classical colora- bums; made collaborations in the Philippines. And that is, tura soprano while his grand- with international R&B singer/ to become a bankable perform- father was a concert pianist. songwriter, Keith Martin (“Beer/recording artist to reckon His aunt, the famous Ms. Cecile cause of You” fame) and noted with. Pretty wild ambition it Azarcon-Inocentes, as we all Filipino songwriters. His selfseemed… But maybe not. know, is one of the Philippines’ titled all-OPM Album is now

distributed by Star Records in the Philippines. As teenager, he started performing on stage amongst big named Filipino singers/performers like Martin Nievera, Gary Valenciano, Kuh Ledesma, Zsa Zsa Padilla, Pops Fernandez and Lani Misalucha, to name a few.

Between 2013 to 2014, Timmy has nailed lead roles in Philippine adaptations of broadway musicals, “The Fantasticks” and “The Whiz”. He was commissioned to serenade and bring cheers to our hardworking Filipino contract workers in Lebanon. Timmy received a rousing welcome that reverberated a clamor for his immediate return to once again entertain; uplift the spirits of our “modern day heroes.”

Where could he be deriving inspirations from when performing those emotionally charged songs with such ease, maturity and confidence?

Timmy lost his father when he was only 3 years old. When he turned 6, for Father’s Day, he had to write a letter addressed to his dad. Not really having his dad around anymore to write his letter to was heartbreaking for a 6-year old boy. At a very young age, Timmy learned the deep true meaning of loving unconditionally. And such is the place where his jaw-dropping emotions come from each time the klieg lights are turned on and cameras are panned on him. ■ Email to: missbjuanradio@gmail.com

32

Entertainment

JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

Iya claims friend Nikki is a virgin Jasmine Curtis-

Smith says she is open to joining Kapamilya roster

BY LEI FONTAMILLAS Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — TV host and former ABS-CBN talent Iya Villania defended her close friend, singer-actrss Nikki Gil saying that the latter is still a virgin.

Villania’s statement came after criticisms questioning the virginity of Gil spread like wildfire in social media.

“She is still a virgin. And the only time she travelled abroad with Billy (Crawford) was for work. It was not a vacation,” said Villania.

One Instagram user voiced her opinion by posting a message in one of Gil’s photos saying that the actress needs to admit that she has had sexual experience with Crawford.

The comment reads like this, ”Why everyone’s saying that you’re still a virgin? Everytime I’m seeing Coleen’s post a lot of people bashing her. Don’t deny the fact that once in your life with Billy (or even twice/ thrice) that you went on a vacation inside/outside the country with him and it’s just you and him so please stop pretending that you’re still a ‘virgin’ for that five years relationship no one can ever believe okay? I wasn’t born yesterday.”

The said commenter was referring to Crawford’s current girlfriend Coleen Garcia. The two recently went to the Mal-

BY ANGIE DUARTE Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — In a recent interview with entertainment portal PEP.ph, actress Jasmine Curtis-Smith expressed her openness to the possibility of moving to the ABS-CBN Kapamilya network. Jasmine’s older sister, Anne Curtis, is currently on the roster of Kapamilya stars.

FACEBOOK PHOTO

dives for their holiday vacation.

It is known to the public that Gil is against premarital sex.

Because of this, many speculated that Gil’s decision to stay virgin was one of the reasons why she and Crawford parted ways.

“Yes, that is perhaps my flaw.

A lot of people told me that men have needs. If that’s the reason behind our break-up, then he does not really deserve me,” she

once told a magazine during an interview.

She added, “Nobody told me to stay a virgin, or because I’m a stuck-up prude and holy-holy.

It’s my choice. I’ve always been like this. Sex is something I value. That’s who I am!”

Gil is rumored to be in a relationship with businessman BJ Albert. Despite this, she still claims that her decision to stay a virgin still takes effect. ■

“Ms Padills” trends worldwide

BY LEI FONTAMILLAS Philippine Canadian Inquirer MANILA — Fans of Daniel Padilla and Kathryn Bernardo were in a frenzy after the actress’ hair stylist John Valle called her “Ms Padills.”

Valle’s comment was posted in one of the behind-the-scenes photos taken during Bernando’s shoot for Cosmopolitan.

The stylist said: “Miss you Ms Padills!”

The post triggered speculations on the real status between Padilla and Bernardo.

Bernardo, on her end, simply said that “Bernards x Padills” was a team of endearment between her and the actor.

The two stars are set to do two new projects together — ABS-CBN’s modern version of “Pangako Sa ‘Yo” and a movie under Star Cinema. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net

The interview, which was published on Wednesday, quoted the 20-year-old as saying that if the network were to offer her a project, she would open to working with them.

“Basta po may trabaho, go (As long as there is work, go!)” Jasmine said.

“Basta ako, kung saan may trabaho, dun naman talaga ako pumupunta, eh (For me, wherever there is work, that’s where I go.),” she added; as she emphasized that she is not one to care much about industry or network politics.

“Wala naman sa akin yung anong mas malakas na network, or mas malakas na event or whatever (It matters not to me which network has more pull, or which event is stronger, or whatever),” Jasmine said.

Jasmine has been associated with the TV5 network since her days as a teen star in 2011. ■

Entertainment

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

33

Sassy as ever, co-hosts Tina and Amy presided over kinder, gentler Golden Globes

BY FRAZIER MOORE The Associated Press NEW YORK — For their third and (so they say) final year, cohosts Amy Poehler and Tina Fey proved themselves yet again the Golden Girls of the Golden Globes awardscast, airing live on NBC Sunday night.

They didn’t spare North Korea or the embattled Sony comedy “The Interview”: Poehler said that nation’s demands that the film be suppressed ended up “forcing us to pretend we wanted to see it.”

A certain scandal-beset comedian felt their sting, too. In describing the best movie musical nominee “Into the Woods,” Poehler said “Sleeping Beauty just THOUGHT she was getting coffee with Bill Cosby.”

They even tweaked the Golden Globes itself, which tends to focus on films at the expense of TV: “Let’s talk about television,” said Poehler late in their duologue, at which point Fey abruptly cut her off: “I’m being told that we’re running out of time.”

*** Further razzing North Korea was a character played by Margaret Cho: a stern, goose-stepping North Korean Army general and the newest member of the Hollywood Foreign Press Association voicing a collection of complaints about Hollywood as well as the Globes: “I think ‘Orange is the New Black’ should be in Drama category,” rather than Comedy, she barked in broken English.

“It funny, but not ha-ha funny.”

The bit scored a twofer: It levelled a comedic take-that at North Korea, while making some viewers cringe at its borderline racism. *** Billy Bob Thornton, winner of best actor in a TV miniseries, had a tough act to follow once his name was called: Jennifer Lopez, whose cleavage-baring gown prompted her co-presenter, Jeremy Renner, to make the evening’s most obvious wisecrack. After JLo said she had the nails to open the envelope, Renner muttered, “You have the globes, too.”

Thornton, observing mo-

ments later that “you can say anything in the world and get in trouble,” declared, “I’m just gonna say thank you.” Then he did and took his leave. *** Otherwise reliable wags Bill Hader and Kristen Wiig flopped as co-presenters for best screenplay. Their routine, meant to demonstrate the vital nature of the writer’s contribution, seemed to have been dashed off at the last minute.

Note to this pair: Next time, consider a rewrite. Another thing that didn’t work: Whatever it was that made most people look orange rather than tan. *** Who wasn’t moved by Jeffrey Tambor? Viewers beheld that old pro, his rich baritone trembling with emotion at winning as best actor in a TV comedy for “Transparent” (the Amazon series in which he plays a transgender character) as he thanked his colleagues for helping him “find more of Jeffrey than I have ever found in my entire life” — before dedicating his award to “the transgender community.”

Tina Fey and Amy Poehler.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

*** Nomination for funniest saywhat? line: Tina Fey declaring “Our next presenter is a woman who’s known by only one name: Winfrey!” *** Nomination for best acceptance-speech sound bite: Kevin Spacey, receiving his first-ever Globe for his performance in Netflix’s “House of Cards”: “I just want it to be better. I just want to be better. But this (award) is very encouraging.” *** Nomination for best “aww”

moment, thanks to George Clooney as he gazed from the stage to the table where his new wife, Amal Clooney, was beaming back at him: “It’s a humbling thing when you find someone to love.” *** That reflected the tone of the Globes. It wasn’t the usual cheeky, boozy party — at least, from the viewers’ standpoint.

Instead it was a kinder, gentler Globes this time — perhaps reflective of the killings in Paris.

Next year, maybe the party will resume. ■

HOROSCOPE ARIES

CANCER

LIBRA

CAPRICORN

(MARCH 21 - APRIL 19)

(JUNE 22 - JULY 22)

(SEPT 23 - OCT 22)

(DEC 22 - JAN 19)

Place your best foot forward this week because you’re in for something good. It’s the perfect time to relax after using up all that extra time and energy.

Give yourself a little me-time to rejuvenate, you deserve it after all your hard work.

This week, be cautious about your finances. If you’re cash flow isn’t looking too promising, there’s no better time to tweak your spending habits than now. Assess your monthly budget and expenses so you can set a new pattern when it comes to spending.

TAURUS

LEO

(APRIL 20 - MAY 20)

(JULY 23 - AUGUST 22)

While you’re used to having things done right on schedule, you could use some time off from your mission. Instead of focusing attention on the usual suspects, try to immerse yourself in a new hobby that’s just for you. Loosen up. Take time to breathe because you need that too.

SCORPIO

You’re already doing pretty solid financially, but you’ll be excited to know it’ll get even better. Good news right?

Use this time to grow your nest egg – set some cash aside for future use. There’s no such thing as being too young when it comes to thinking big.

AQUARIUS (JAN 20 - FEB 18)

(OCT 23 - NOV 21) The spotlight is all yours this week. Destiny is giving you an opportunity to shine brighter than a diamond.

Take this chance to let your voice be heard and get your talents noticed. The game plan is simple: Keep your focus and never lose balance.

You’re bound to meet someone significant. This person will play an important role in your life for the long haul. Don’t underestimate his value because he can help you in ways you’ve never dreamed possible. Maybe the fairy godmother has finally heard your wish?

If you’re contemplating in a major life change, whether it’s looking for a new job or taking up a new hobby, now is the best time. Create a master plan. Step up and take the change.

It looks like things are all going your way. You’re bound to be in command, but as they say, “With great power comes great responsibility.” You just have to remember to be responsible for your actions.

You’re smart. You can handle this.

GEMINI

VIRGO

SAGITTARIUS

PISCES

(MAY 21 - JUNE 21)

(AUG 23 - SEPT 22)

(NOV 22 - DEC 21)

(FEB 19 - MAR 20)

If you’re feeling a little derailed, it may be because you’re somewhat forgetting your priorities. We all get distracted at times, but don’t get stuck there. Instead, try to regain your focus. It’s better when you can trust yourself to make the right decisions at all times.

You’ll be busy bee this week.

Get ready for a truckload of tasks that you can expect will ea much of your time. “A little less party, a little more work” will be your theme, but don’t worry because help is just around the corner in the form of your friends.

You’re admired for your talent when it comes to creatively communicating and reaching out to others. Maximize that gift because you’ll be given the perfect opportunity to express yourself. Don’t be overwhelmed by the attention – rather, use it to your advantage.

www.canadianinquirer.net

The past months have been pretty steady, but still, you can’t wait to get back on track. Well, you can slow down again because this will be yet another unruffled week. It may be The Universe telling you to reflect on everything that’s going on in your life, so do it.

34

Entertainment

JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

Bill Cosby’s Canadian fans believe comedian innocent until charged

BY DIANA MEHTA The Canadian Press

Bill Cosby was met with hecklers and protestors during his recent shows in Canada over recent allegations of sexual assault dating back to decades ago.

His supporters have said that Cosby is "innocent until proven guilty".

EUGENE PARCIASEPE / SHUTTERSTOCK.COM

LOUD PROTESTERS, in-show hecklers and tense, tight security — Bill Cosby’s Canadian fans bore it all to share a few laughs with the famous comedian amidst the barrage of sexual assault allegations that have plagued him for weeks.

When asked how they could applaud a man repeatedly accused of grave crimes, the phrase “innocent until proven guilty” was a common refrain among those who saw Cosby perform in the southwestern

Ontario cities of Kitchener, London and Hamilton this week.

“If they could prove anything he’d be in jail. He would have been charged, they wouldn’t have let him come into Canada,” said Mike Lethbridge, who took in Cosby’s final show. “I think he’s innocent.”

The audiences who gave Cosby three consecutive standing ovations nonetheless had to make their way past loud protesters at every venue where he performed as calls of “shame on you” were hurled their way.

In London and Hamilton, Cosby’s fans also had to with-

stand disruptions to the shows as the comedian was called “a rapist” in one instance and protesters chanted “we believe the women” in another.

The 77-year-old comedian reacted by calling for calm and noted that he and his fans “hold no enemies.”

The intrusion of the controversy into what were otherwise family-friendly performances made for a curious mix for at least some audience members.

“We like his comedy, we don’t know anything more than that.

So we’re here for that and that’s

poor, and beatified Ruiz and other martyrs who were persecuted in Japan in the 17th century. The ceremony, which was held in Rizal Park, was the first beatification outside of Rome in all of history.

John Paull II also celebrated Mass in Cebu, the Queen City of the South, as well as in Davao City. While in Davao, he met with Muslim leaders.

As part of his itinerary, John Paul II made a trip to Bataan, during which he visited a camp for Vietnamese, Laotian and Cambodian war refugees. He also met with a group of lepers in Manila.

He was accessible to, loved and embraced by Filipinos from nearly all walks of life.

On his second official visit, in January of 1995, the then 74-year-old pontiff was greeted at the Manila International Airport by thousands upon thousands of supporters.

“The Filipino people are never far from my mind and heart,” John Paul II said upon his arrival to exuberant cheers of “Mabuhay!” and “Viva il Papa!”

His second time coming to the country (to preside over the Catholic youth festival, the 10th World Youth Day, from the 10th-15th of January), however, wasn’t so seamless.

On January 15, Al-Qaida terrorist Ramzi Yousef (who was later on convicted for the 1993 attack on the World Trade Center) had intended to plant a bomb underneath a manhole

cover along Quirino Boulevard, where he believed the Pope was scheduled to pass en route to a large outdoor Mass. It was an assassination attempt gone wrong, as the bomb exploded prematurely in the sink of an apartment Yousef had rented to serve as headquarters while plotting his dastardly deed.

Apart from an improvised explosive device with a mind of its own, and the fact that John Paul II did not travel by Popemobile to Qurino Grandstand (he flew there via chopper), as Yousef had thought, the plot — which was part of the three-phase terror-driven “Bojinka Plot” — was pretty elaborate. Yousef rented a beach house, for the purpose of training his compatriots for the attack, purchased props (such as Bibles, a crucifix, and a large poster of the Pope), and several priests’ vestments.

Nonetheless, the youth rally went exceedingly well. It was the first time for an Asian country to host the event. Additionally, the 5th and final day of the conference drew a record-breaking, mammoth crowd of 4-million people in attendance at the three-and-a-half hour Mass.

Aside from encouraging the youth to pursue God’s will, John Paul also decried poverty and oppression; condemning the injustice in the country, as he referenced what he noted as the “increasing” gap between rich and poor.

“When powerful interests pro-

mote policies which are against the moral law inscribed on the human heart, they offend the dignity of man who is made in the image and likeness of God. In doing so, they undermine the foundations of society itself,” he said.

Pope John Paul II reigned 25-years as Pope, until his death in April 2005. He was proclaimed Venerable on December 19, 2009, beatified on May 1, 2011, and canonised on April 27, 2014.

❱❱ PAGE 43 Bill Cosby's

Papal visits... president into his personal diary, currently on display — along with other memorabilia of past papal visits — at the Malacañang Palace Museum.

The rest of the trip went smoothly, during which Paul VI spread his message of mercy and compassion — much as Francis is poised to do — and to uplift the faith of Catholics in the country.

“The object of our visit to Manila is of the spiritual order; it has an apostolic character.

Great would be our joy if by our visit the Catholic people were made firm in their faith and in the sincere and coherent expression of it,” Paul VI was quoted as saying, in one of many speeches during his trip.

Paul VI declined an invitation to stay at the Palace, choosing instead to maintain the tradition of residing at the Apostolic Nunciature in Manila.

What many people may not know — and again, it is a touch surreal — is that Paul VI’s attacker, although unsuccessful, did not entirely miss his target.

Mendoza managed to injure the pope, wounding him in the chest area. Paul VI went about with business, as usual, and told no one of what had happened.

It is said that he made the revelation on his death bed, fearing that if he had spoken of it any sooner, his attacker would have been meted the death penalty for his actions against the high❰❰ 25

profile world leader.

Pope Paul VI, who died in 1978, has been proclaimed a Servant of God and has also been accorded the title of Venerable. He was beatified on October 19, 2014.

Two times Totus Tuus equals one protomartyr and a mammoth youth rally

Totus Tuus was the apostolic motto — Latin for “totally yours” — of Pope John Paul II, who came to the Philippines on two separate occasions.

With this motto, John Paul II expressed his personal consecration to Mary, as well as his devotion to the people. History records him as the “most beloved” of all popes.

John Paul II traveled to 129 countries; a total of 1,500 trips and 1-Million kilometres, in all.

This made him the “most traveled” pope.

Unbeknownst to many, John Paul II made three trips to the Philippines. His first ever visit was in 1976, as Kraków Archbishop Karol Cardinal Wojtyla.

His first official visit to the Philippines, as pope, was in February of 1981. John Paul II came to the country for the beatification of Lorenzo Ruiz, the nation’s patron and first-ever saint (or, protomartyr; to be precise) to be venerated by the Roman Catholic Church. The visit went without a hitch.

During that trip, he addressed the youth, spoke with the urban

www.canadianinquirer.net

A security nightmare and a stern warning

Yes; with just under two days to go — at the time of this writing — before the arrival of Pope Francis, the Philippines waits with baited breath.

And, quite possibly, the sensation of a stomach full of butterflies.

The trip has repeatedly been described as a potential “security nightmare,” and has everyone and their uncles’ uncle on their toes.

On Monday, three days before Francis’ arrival on January 15, President Benigno Aquino asked a rhetorical question, meant to serve as a reminder bordering on stern warning: “I ask you, do you want history to record that a tragedy involving the pope happened in the Philippines?”

Most certainly not.

Maybe history will record having cops and traffic enforcers don adult diapers as a stroke of genius, after all. ■

35

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Lifestyle

Thank you notes still deliver traditional show of gratitude, extra appreciation

BY LAUREN LA ROSE The Canadian Press TORONTO — Individuals still revelling in memories of social gatherings and gift exchanges during the holidays can spread some belated festive cheer to loved ones with a show of gratitude: a thank-you card.

While sending thank-you notes may be customary after major celebrations like a baby shower or wedding, fans of handwritten missives say the practice of putting pen to paper should be more widely embraced — even with the ease of sending similar messages via email or text.

“Everything is hooked up to us 24-7 from a technological perspective, so a lot has changed. And I think our vision of what’s important and what priorities are and how we communicate has changed a little bit,” said Erin Crotty, founder and director of Ottawa-based BloomStra Consulting, a business etiquette, international protocol and image management consulting firm.

“I think we’re losing so much with respect to the importance of valuing relationships, face-to-face interaction, demonstrating our gratitude and saying ‘thank you’ — all those things that help to enhance and support and nurture relationships.”

After enjoying a New Year’s Eve dinner hosted by friends, Leanne Pepper plans to send a note of thanks. The etiquette and protocol consultant has

also received handwritten letters she treasures from her nephews, aged 11 and eight, after hosting them for sleepovers or dinner.

“It just shows that extra appreciation,” said Pepper, general manager of the Faculty Club at the University of Toronto.

“Of course, we always thank our hosts after attending ... a house party or a dinner; but that extra special thank-you card goes a long way, and even if you receive a gift, a thank-you card goes a long way. It doesn’t take long, and it’s just a matter of finding a few moments and writing a thank you.”

Whether it’s personal or in business, a handwritten thankyou demonstrates that “somebody has thought of me, that

they appreciate me and that they value the relationship,” said Crotty.

Prior to starting her company, Crotty was responsible for all student recruitment in the Ottawa office of a national law firm. While she conducted hundreds of interviews over the years, students who sent handwritten thank-you notes “really stood out.”

“It almost kind of completed their package of what made them unique and special because they went that extra step further — and that’s what that thank-you card says, especially when it’s handwritten and they’ve taken the time to put their own thoughts and gratitude into that note.”

Pepper said writing a thank-

you card doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. She recommended keeping the note short, making specific reference to the present or event attended, and that the gesture or gift was treasured.

“It just goes to show that you really appreciated what the person did for you,” said Pepper. “In this day and age, we’ve gotten so busy with our emails and computers and lives that we just don’t take time to sit down and reflect and show our appreciation.”

Both Crotty and Pepper agreed that a handwritten note is preferable to an email, but that it’s better to send some form of thanks than none at all.

Crotty said the rule of thumb is to send a card within 24 hours

of receiving a gift or other form of generosity but adheres to the motto that “it’s always better late than never.”

Sara-Lynne Levine said it’s important to teach children about gratitude and has instilled the message in her sons Jonah, 12, and Ben, 8 1/2.

“When we have a conversation about why they’re doing it — they know that it’s important to thank someone for buying the gift — but I think those little gems that the kids write on their own are really what personalizes and makes the card,” said Levine, editor and publisher of the Ottawa Capital Region edition of Macaroni Kids, an online parenting resource and newsletter. “(For) whoever is receiving the thank-you note, it’s probably great to open it up and see an eight-year-old’s handwriting saying: “This is so cool. This is the best gift.’ You give your kid some guidelines, but their personality shines through.”

Following Hanukkah last year, Levine said her eldest son opted instead to email his grandparents to thank them.

“While it may not be a traditional way to do it, he took the time and he acknowledged the gift,” she said. “I think the most important thing is the acknowledgment of the gift, and the method and the delivery you can leave it to the child once they get to be old enough.”

Crotty said writing a thankyou note is an extension of having proper manners.

“If you start at a young age, you recognize the value.” ■

36

Lifestyle

JANUARY 16, 2015 FRIDAY

Lifting spirits: Experts offer tips for overcoming post holiday blues

BY SHERYL UBELACKER The Canadian Press TORONTO — It’s that time of year when many Canadians may be experiencing the postholiday blahs: back at work after being off, disgruntled about the frigid weather and fretting over looming credit-card bills following excessive shopping during the season. And don’t forget the lingering physical hangover from gorging on an abundance of rich food and perhaps too much liquid cheer.

To defeat those January blues, experts offer these five tips.

Put it in perspective

Dr. Peter Bieling, director of the Mood Disorders Program at St. Joseph’s Health Care in Hamilton, Ont., says a small proportion of people develop a major depression during the low-sun months of late fall and winter, typically known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. An estimated three per cent of Canadians develop SAD, which often can be prevented or treated with 30 minutes daily

exposure to bright light using a specially designed fluorescent light box. Antidepressant drugs and talk therapy also can help.

But Bieling says the vast majority of Canadians don’t fall into this category.

“It’s intuitive — it’s cold, it’s dark, your credit-card bill has arrived,” and for most people it’s the first week back on the job after the end-of-year break to celebrate the season, he says.

While acknowledging that being somewhat down in the dumps is a “very real feeling that people have,” the psychologist says the idea that most Canadians are going to be depressed this time of year doesn’t hold up under scientific scrutiny.

“It has an intuitive appeal to us, but it’s not a real thing ...

People get depressed because something has happened to them in a very personal way, and that can happen at any time of the year. That can happen on Christmas Day; it can also happen on June 15.”

Calling them not surprising, Bieling offers a few commonsense strategies for warding off the new-year blues.

Bedtime

“You have to get a decent night’s sleep at this time of year.

People burn the candle at both ends too much. They need to protect their sleep,” he says.

Get moving

“People need exercise. Especially when it’s cold out, people are less likely to walk. And for the mood protective effects of exercise ... you only need three to four times a week, for 30 minutes each time. That’s not going to turn you into Arnold Schwarzenegger, but that’s going to help your mood.”

Nutrition

“When I talk to my patients (about food), I always say the less processed it is, the better it is for you. Canada’s Food Guide may not be perfect, but it would be a pretty decent place to start.

So no junk.”

Financial writer-TV personality Gail Vaz-Oxlade says many Canadians end up with a “holiday hangover” come January because they’ve overspent, often to satisfy what they see as others’ expectations. www.canadianinquirer.net

“We want to meet our kids’ expectations — they want all the new whatevers; we have to meet out friends’ and our families’ expectations,” she says. “If your sister-in-law always gives lavish presents, do you buy into that? Or do you say, ‘You know what, I’m going to knit everybody a hat this year.’ Most people can’t do that. They buy into the whole expectation thing.

“And then they get into the stores and the stores work their own magic and so many people do the one-for-you, the onefor-me thing: ‘Here’s a present for aunty Maureen, one for me.

Here’s a present for cousin Sue, one for me.’

“Then what happens is the bills start coming in in January and if you have shopped on plastic and you haven’t kept track of what you have been spending — and most people don’t — it comes as a shock.”

Vaz-Oxlade says the act of shopping releases feel-good endorphins in the brain, while paying by credit card allows people to distance themselves from the pain associated with parting with actual cash. With each pur-

chase, a person goes from one surge of euphoria to another.

“Don’t think coming off that holiday binge is easy for people,” she says. “You shop and you shop and you shop, and then you’ve got to stop ... It feels unnatural to stop and you want the rush of the shopping again.”

Vaz-Oxlade’s advice is simple, though she says many people find it difficult to put into practice.

Put yourself on a budget and stick to it

“You’re going to have to go through and eliminate all the niceto-haves so that you can pay what you owe. So if you have to go three, four, five, six months without cable, so be it. If have to eliminate eating out, that’s what you do.

“Must-haves must rule.”

In the meantime, she says, people should make it a priority to pay off what they owe from last month’s Christmas spending spree and start socking away money for the next holiday season, keeping in mind financially realistic goals that won’t start the process over again in January 2016. ■

Lifestyle

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

37

Race influences breast cancer outcome; black women more likely to die: study

BY HELEN BRANSWELL The Canadian Press TORONTO — Race may influence whether women diagnosed with breast cancer will survive, suggests a new study which found black women are more likely to die even when their tumours are found when they are small and theoretically easier to treat.

The study, which is based on U.S. data, said that even when breast cancer is diagnosed at Stage 1, black women have a higher risk of dying than women of Japanese ethnicity or white women.

Senior author Dr. Steven Narod said it had long been thought differences in outcomes between white and black women with breast cancer related to access to quality health care in the United States, where before the Affordable Care Act came into effect more black women may have been without

health insurance.

Canada, but without doing the cancer, the earlier the tumour But he said that by mining work he cannot be sure. is found the more likely it is a large U.S. database that regNarod and his co-authors an- that the woman will survive. isters breast cancer cases by alyzed data on nearly 375,000 So looking only at cancers diagstage at diagnosis, income sta- women with invasive breast nosed early should have elimitus, race and ethnicity, he and cancer that was diagnosed nated the survival differences his colleagues concluded that between 2004 and 2011. The one might have expected to see isn’t the case. study is published in the Jour- if one racial group’s problems “The assumption that we’re nal of the American Medical accessing care meant their cangoing to eliminate differences Association. cers were typically found later. in cancer outThe researchcomes by elimiers saw that nating differencblack women es in health care were less likely is not that well There may be intrinsic biological to be diagnosed founded,” said differences that account with Stage 1 canNarod, a leading for some of the differences in cer than women breast cancer outcomes that cannot be eliminated. of Japanese heriresearcher who tage. But even if is based at Tothey were first ronto’s Women’s diagnosed with a College Hospital.

Stage 1 tumour, “There may be intrinsic bioThey looked at the stage of black women were more likely logical differences that account the cancer at diagnosis, in par- to die from the cancer than for some of the differences in ticular focusing on women white women or women of Japoutcomes that cannot be elimi- whose cancers were found at anese ethnicity. nated.” the earliest stage, when the For one thing, the cancer Narod said he thinks simi- cancers were less than two cen- was more likely to have spread lar results would be seen if a timetres in size. at the time of diagnosis, even matching study was done in With some types of breast though the cancers were small.

www.canadianinquirer.net

And black women were more likely to have the hardest form of the disease to treat, known as triple negative breast cancer.

“It’s more likely to have already spread when it’s detected. And if it hasn’t spread when it’s detected, it’s more likely to spread in the future. Both things are true, compared to a white woman,” Narod said.

An editorial that accompanied the study suggested the survival gap will only be closed when large numbers of women from minority groups are included in studies aimed at finding the genomic basis of different types of breast cancers.

Editorial co-author Dr. Olufunmilayo Olopade called the paper “fundamentally important,” saying she has been pressing the breast cancer research field to look at racial differences for some time.

“Yes, you can talk about access (to care), said Olopade, ❱❱ PAGE 43 Race influences

38

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Business

Canada loses 4,300 net jobs in December, jobless rate stays put at 6.6%

BY ANDY BLATCHFORD The Canadian Press OTTAWA — The Canadian labour market capped off 2014 by losing 4,300 net jobs in December, a slight dip from the previous month that left the unemployment rate locked at 6.6 per cent, Statistics Canada said Friday.

The agency’s latest job-market survey found that Canada added 185,700 net new positions in 2014, with the bulk of the increase coming in the second half of the calendar. The unemployment rate, meanwhile, moved down over the course of the year from 7.2 per cent.

“I think we can say it was a fairly good year for employment — nothing through the roof, but it was just a decent year,” said Jimmy Jean, a senior economist with Desjardins Capital Markets.

“Looking forward, we continue to expect the Canadian economy to benefit from the U.S. acceleration... so we should continue to see a very decent pace of job creation on an overall basis.”

For December, the agency’s report found the country gained 53,500 full-time positions, a tally more than offset by a loss of 57,700 part-time jobs.

December was the second straight month the survey registered a small drop in employment. The economy shed 10,700 net jobs in November, but those decreases followed large back-to-back increases of

74,100 in September and 43,100 jobs in October.

The unemployment rate matched the projection of economists, who had also predicted a net gain of 15,000 jobs for December, according to Thomson Reuters.

Experts were watching for clues that Canada’s economic strength was shifting from the energy sector to manufacturing, an expected fallout from the lower loonie and the oil prices that began to plummet in October.

Jean said he was surprised to see the natural-resources sector add 10,200 jobs across Canada in December, while the manufacturing industry lost

18,300 positions.

“We’ve kind of been expecting the opposite to be at play with the weaker currency,” he said.

“I think it speaks volumes to the challenges still faced by the (manufacturing) sector. Even if the currency is weaker, it’s going to take time before businesses really start to invest.”

By industry, accommodation and food services saw the biggest job one-month decline in the survey, losing 32,800 positions in December. But, over 2014, the category had added 38,300 jobs.

The Statistics Canada findings also show the youth unemployment rate moved up 0.3

EXCHANGE RATES

percentage points in December to 13.3 per cent, but that 62,500 more young people had jobs compared to a year earlier.

The survey found that 23,600 fewer women between the ages of 25 and 54 were working last month. The unemployment rate, however, for that category remained unchanged at 5.2 per cent as fewer participated in the labour market.

For men, the agency said 22,600 more males in the same age bracket found employment last month, which nudged the category’s jobless rate down 0.2 percentage points to 5.5 per cent — its lowest level since 2008.

CIBC chief economist Avery

Shenfeld said Friday he expected the “weak headline” in the December numbers to apply pressure on the Canadian dollar, but he thought the details provided “some comfort.”

“The story for Canada is all about what lies ahead given the recent drop in energy prices, rather than the (fourth-quarter) picture,” Shenfeld wrote in a note to clients.

The senior policy adviser from the left-leaning Broadbent Institute think-tank was disappointed by the 2014 job numbers.

“2014 was a pitiful year for Canadian working people,” Andrew Jackson said Friday in a statement released by the organization, which was founded by former NDP leader Ed Broadbent.

Jackson said the lower unemployment rate was likely due to the fall of the country’s participation rate, a number that tracks Canadians with jobs and those looking for jobs as a percentage of the working-age population.

Over the last year, the participation rate fell to 65.9 per cent from 66.4.

However, while some believe a declining participation rate is a clear indicator that thousands of people have become too discouraged to look for work and have left the workforce, some experts argue it could also be due to the fact many baby boomers have started to retire.

Statistics Canada plans to publish a year-end review of the 2014 numbers on Jan. 28. ■

As of January 14, 2015, from finance.yahoo.com PRICE

CHANGE

% CHANGE

CND / USD

1.1992

+0.0040

+0.3347%

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37.2717

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+0.5373%

Business

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Philippines tops 19 countries whose economy will win the oil barrel at USD 40 each

BY JUZEL L. DANGANAN Philippine News Agency

much oil and it’s an island nation that has to rely on importation for its fuel needs.

Fortune added the economist also compared the situation to — similar island nation — Japan, which is not even included in the 19 countries who will benefit from the drop.

Fortune attributes the Philippines will be impacted by

increasing its shale oil output – obtained through fracking – which cornered the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries MANILA — The Philippines (OPEC) to defend its colossal marhas topped 19 countries whose ket share and not cut production. economies will win with the oil National Economic Developbarrel, if it drops to record levment Authority (NEDA) Secreels of USD 40 each, according to tary Arsenio Balisacan had been a Fortune article. reached for comment, but has Fortune, citing an Oxford not responded on the matter.

Economics study Meanwhile, called Oil-ipedia, the USD 40 per said the Philipoil barrel level is pines’ Gross DoThe Fortune report mentioned an rapidly headed mestic Product economist from the Oxford study itself by benchmarks, (GDP) can incould not explain why the Philippines with Crude oil crease by about will have the biggest benefit from the West Texas Inter1.8 percent, in decrease of oil prices. mediate (WTI) sync with the closed at USD oil price drop at 48.36 per barrel USD 40 per barrel. the plunging oil prices with the for February delivery, while EuHowever, the Fortune report monetary policy of the coun- rope benchmark crude oil closed mentioned an economist from try, also decreasing the interest for February delivery on Friday the Oxford study itself could rate by 4 percent. at USD 50.11 per barrel. not explain why the Philippines It added the country has a greatA Canadian firm has formerly will have the biggest benefit er demand for oil due to the boom- stressed oil levels can reach up from the decrease of oil prices. ing population of its citizens. to USD 30 per barrel, before it The economist said that Last year, the rapid oil decrease stabilizes at USD 70-75 per barthey’re quite clueless since the was triggered by a number of fac- rel, according to an article from Philippines does not produce tors initially by North America the Financial Post. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net

39

Chile to pursue Free Trade Agreement with Philippines

BY KRIS M. CRISMUNDO Philippine News Agency MANILA — Chile will be pursuing for a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Philippines to boost bilateral trade between the two countries.

Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Secretary Gregory L. Domingo said there will be Chilean mission visiting the country

by February or March this year.

He said that for the past years Chile want to have bilateral trade pact with the Philippines and they are now pushing through to start FTA talks.

He said the two countries will start informal discussion on FTA during the Chilean mission here this first quarter of the year. This will include identifying sectors that will benefit with the trade pact.

The Philippines, the trade chief added, will also conduct

a return mission to Chile as the country aims to have business mission to South America during the middle of 2015.

“During my term, we never had business mission to South America. It’s about time to have one,” Domingo said, adding that they might visit Peru, and/or Brazil and Mexico aside from Chile.

Meanwhile, prior to the Chilean mission, there will be a delegation from the United States coming to Manila this January 29 led by Philippine Ambassador to the U.S. Jose L. Cuisia.

Then, this will be followed by a business mission from Japan in February. At least 40 Japanese delegates will be visiting in the Philippines, the largest business mission of Japan in the past three years.

Early this month, Domingo met Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Kazuhide Ishikawa to discuss measures on strengthening economic ties of Japan and the Philippines. ■

40

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Travel

Travellers can pack smart phones but shouldn’t count on them for directions THE CANADIAN PRESS TORONTO — Roy Alexander’s cellphone can reveal new worlds to him right before it often cuts them off from view.

When the Toronto-area resident feels like setting out on a hiking excursion, mapping applications on his mobile device can direct him toward beautiful trails he never knew existed.

Once he ventures far enough down those paths, however, the phone becomes more of a liability than an asset. The GPS directions that set him on his way have potential to lead him astray the further he gets from cell towers.

Too many fruitless attempts to right the course would leave his phone little more than a dead weight, since the mapping apps would have drained the life from the battery.

There’s a thin line between the risks and rewards of mobile-assisted travel, and Alexander feels everyone should learn to navigate it before going anywhere else.

“Always have a Plan B and have a barometer of what the possibilities are if your technology is inaccurate,” Alexander said in a telephone interview.

“Do your research first and plan for the event that your devices will fail.”

The rising popularity of smart phones and tablets has made it easy for globetrotters to embrace the benefits of mobile technology on the road. Travellers have access to apps offering everything from directions to restaurant recommendations, and a survey suggests they’re taking full advantage of those options.

In a 2013 survey from travel website TripAdvisor, 87 per cent of the 30,000 people surveyed reported using a smart phone while on their trips. The polling industry’s professional body, the Marketing Research and Intelligence Association, says the online survey of travel-

The rising popularity of smartphones has made it easy for globetrotters to embrace mobile map apps and gps while travelling. But travelers should also be aware of the risks, such as inaccurate/incomplete/outdated/missing maps, and battery drain, before heavily relying on such things.

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

lers from 22 countries cannot in which cellphones fall short be assigned a margin of error. as a travel aid.

But a recent incident in BritThey shine in urban environish Columbia vividly illustrated ments where internet connecthe limits of relying too heavily tions are plentiful, but the same on mobile technology. Runner approach that works well in Allison Tai had to be airlifted bustling areas can’t be applied out of a provincial park in Brit- to more remote areas, he said. ish Columbia after the route she’d plotted on Google Maps led her down a series Cellphones are the Swiss of remote, unArmy Knife of electronics. Like marked roads. any Swiss Army Knife it can do The frigid wina good job but not a great job. ter weather also caused her cellphone battery to freeze up, leaving her stranded without a way “Cellphones are the Swiss to call for help. Tai was only res- Army Knife of electronics. Like cued after hiking up a mountain any Swiss Army Knife it can do to a point where a helicopter pi- a good job but not a great job,” lot could pull her to safety. he said. “If you use a mobile Chris Gibbs, assistant profes- phone to tell me what to do in sor of tourism at Ryerson Uni- the wilderness, it’s only going versity, says Tai’s experience to do an average job.” perfectly demonstrate the ways One of the key factors limit-

ing the effectiveness of mobile travel apps is the quality of the data underpinning them.

Kundan Joshi, Chief Executive of development company The App Labb, said most navigation apps depend on thirdparty maps prepared by Google.

The tech company is constantly deploying staff to make sure their maps are current, but Joshi said they can’t always keep up to changing landmarks or include the kind of detail that regional cartographers would include.

“To have the most accurate data becomes a big challenge,” he said.

An increasingly popular solution is social mapping tools that allow users to add information and correct inaccuracies as they travel, but even those have

their limits, Joshi said.

Apps with thorough, detailed maps would exceed the strict space limits assigned by services like Apple’s App Store, Joshi said. Even if apps circumvented that limit by forcing users to download map databases separately, the phones themselves may not have space to store them, he added.

It’s for this reason that Alexander always brings a rugged, standalone GPS device along on his hikes, as well as extra batteries in case of emergency.

More important to him, however, are the low-tech travel preparations. These include planning routes using locallyproduced maps, sharing travel plans with others and packing supplies more essential than any smart phone.

“Consider your equipment but be equipped,” he said.

“People take their cellphone and take the batteries but they won’t take water.” ■

Travel

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

41

Selfie sticks mean no more asking others to take your picture

BY BETH J. HARPAZ The Canadian Press NEW YORK — Selfies at tourist attractions are nothing new.

But until recently, if you wanted a perfectly composed picture of yourself with Times Square or the Colosseum in the background, you might have asked a passer-by to take the photo.

Now, though, relatively new gadgets called selfie sticks make it easy to take your own wide-angled self-portraits or group shots. Fans say the expandable rods, which allow users to hold their cellphones a few feet away, are the ultimate convenience: no more bothering passers-by to take pictures, no more fretting about strangers taking lousy shots or running off with a pricey iPhone.

But some travellers bemoan the loss of that small interaction that came with politely asking a local to help preserve a memory. And critics express outright hatred of selfie sticks as obnoxious symbols of self-absorption.

They even have a derisive name for them, playing on the narcissistic behaviour they think the sticks encourage: narcissi-stick.

Sarah Kinling of Baltimore

said she was approached “17 times” by vendors selling selfie sticks at the Colosseum in Rome. “They’re the new fanny pack — the quickest way to spot a tourist,” she said. “The more I saw them in use, the more I saw how much focus people were putting on selfies, and not turning around to see what they were there to see.”

When Kinling wanted a photo of herself with her sister and sister-in-law, she asked strangers to take the shot. “Even when the other person didn’t speak English, you hold your camera up and make the motion and they understand,” she said.

But some travellers say it’s better to stage your own vacation photos. Andrea Garcia asked a passer-by to take her photo in Egypt and later realized he’d zoomed in on her face, cutting out the pyramids behind her. “I couldn’t really be mad at him — he wasn’t my photographer, I didn’t pay him,” she said. The experience made her appreciate the selfie sticks she sees tourists using at 1 World Trade near her office in Lower Manhattan. “Take control of your image!” she says.

Selfie sticks are just starting to show up at attractions in the

U.S., but they’re ubiquitous in many destinations overseas, from Dubai’s skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, to the Eiffel Tower in Paris. A soccer stadium in London, White Hart Lane, has even banned them because they obstruct other fans’ views.

The Four Seasons Hotel in Houston started making them available to guests last week, “similar to the way many hotels provide umbrellas,” said hotel spokeswoman Laura Pettitt.

The sticks range in price from $5 to $50. Simpler models merely grip the phone, so users must trigger the shot with a self-timer on the camera. More sophisticated versions either use Bluetooth technology or connect the phone to the stick with a cord, with a button on the grip triggering the shot.

Jasmine Brett Stringer of Minneapolis writes a lifestyles blog called “Carpe Diem with Jasmine” and uses selfie sticks to record her videos. “A friend brought one back from Dubai and I said, ‘I’ve got to get one,”’ she said. Now she doesn’t have to rely on others to help shoot her work. The sticks are also an improvement over handheld selfies because they let you shoot “at better angles, avoid

“Selfie sticks,” a relatively new device, allows someone to take a picture of themselves and their surroundings without needing the assistance of another person. Some travelers bemoan the loss of the small interaction that comes from having to speak to a local or fellow tourist for help.

FLORIS OOSTERVELD / FLICKR

the awkward arm reach and the dreadful half-face shot.”

Megan Marrs of Boston, who writes a travel blog called Vanishing Balloons, thought the sticks were ridiculous when she saw them on a trip to South Korea last fall. “It seemed so vain and silly,” said Marrs. But she bought one to bring home as a gift, ended up trying it herself

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and became a fan.

“I don’t love intruding on other people’s experience, asking them to take my picture — they’re there to enjoy their time, too,” she said. “Sometimes I feel silly — one more tourist taking a selfie in front of the Colosseum — but I’m more comfortable doing it myself than asking someone else.” ■

Long term forecast taken from: www.weathernetwork.com

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FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Sports

Nietes’ journey from boxing stable utility man to a longest-reigning Filipino boxing world champion PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY

over, he was finally able to convince the boxing patron to include him in one of his amateur fights.

“When I saw him fight, that’s when I thought, there might be a future in fighting for him,’“ he said.

On April 25, 2003, Nietes finally realized his dream when he turned pro and beat Walter Suaybaguio by decision in his debut.

He would go on to win nine of his first 10 fights, the other one a draw, and his nine wins, six were by knockouts.

Then he got his first big break when he fought Marti Polii in Indonesia and scored a seventh-round knockout.

Aldeguer got a call from a promoter friend in Indonesia, who was looking for Filipino boxers for his fight card and he sent Nietes.

“I told him, why not make it worth our boxer’s time by letting him fight twice?’“ he said.

The undefeated Nietes first beat Abrin Matta in four rounds before getting assigned to face then up-and-coming fighter Angky Angkotta, who was 12-20 at that time, on Sept. 28, 2004.

CEBU CITY — On the first day of 2015, World Boxing Organization (WBO) light flyweight champion Donnie “Ahas” Nietes officially became the longest-reigning Filipino world champion, surpassing the legendary Cebuano Flash Elorde’s record of seven years and three months.

But on his first day he showed up at the ALA gym, boxing patron Antonio L. Aldeguer (ALA) said he didn’t even allow the Murcia, Negros Occidentalborn fighter to join his stable of fighters.

“He showed up with his cousin Dan, who was a boxer, saying he also wanted to become one.

But he was so skinny and so frail, I said no,” Aldeguer said.

Aldeguer led a testimonial for the two-division world champion last Jan. 9 at the Cebu City Sports Club.

So instead of getting a pair of gloves and a spot in the ring, Nietes got handed mops, brooms and a job as the utility man of the ALA gym in Cebu City.

“I told him that I have a lot of animals in the gym, why not take care of it?” he said.

Winning a title in boxing is very So Nietes difficult, staying a champion for started taking seven years is 100 times more care of Aldegudifficult. er’s pets, including the pythons.

“Of all the workers assigned to take care of “The promoter said they the snakes, he was the only one wanted to pit Nietes against a who was able to approach and promising fighter in Angkota touch them,” he said. and I said, ‘Yes,’“, Aldeguer said.

Thus was born the nickname But on the weigh-in, Nietes “Ahas,” who would become came in at 105 pounds, while one of the great fighters in his- Angkota was at 112. tory according to the renowned “I wanted to scrap the fight Ring Magazine. but the promoter said that they But before he made “Ahas” have to push on with the fight famous, Nietes had to convince because everything was set,” he Aldeguer to let him fight. said.

After sneaking in some trainAldeguer agreed but stipuing time after his chores were lated that there must be an-

other weigh-in on the day of the fight and Angkota must be at 108-pounds.

The Indonesian fighter was still overweight, and was two pounds over the agreement but the fight still pushed through and Nietes suffered his first and only loss, by split decision.

“But the promoter called me and said, ‘You’re fighter won the fight fair and square, and as proof of that, he knocked out two of my fighter’s teeth!’“ Aldeguer said.

After that controversial loss, Nietes moved on and fought 12 more times, winning 10 and earning two draws and he got a shot at the vacant WBO world minimumweight title against Pornsawan Porpramook, a chance that even Aldeguer himself wouldn’t come.

“It never entered my mind that he would become a world champion,” he said.

Nietes surprised everyone by knocking down Porpramook (20-0) once in the fourth round on his way to a unanimous decision win.

Five years later, Porpramook would become a world champion himself after beating Muhammad Rachman for the vacant Rachman for the WBA minimum weight belt, just one of several Nietes victims who would become world champions.

Aside from his fierce determination in the ring, Aldeguer and trainers Edito and Edmund Villamor also praised Nietes humility and work ethic.

“The Donnie Nietes I saw seven years ago is still the same Donnie Nietes I see today,” said Edito, a former world title contender in his prime with a 29-2, 26 KOs record who lost two title fights to the legendary boxer Ricardo Lopez.

Edmund also thanked Donnie for realizing his dream.

Donnie "Ahas" Nietes.

“As a fighter, I dreamed of becoming a world champion but I wasn’t able to do that. I thank Donnie for making me achieve my dream, but this time, as a trainer,” said Edmund, who fought as a minimumweight and retired with a 15-2-, 8 KOs record.

Both Edito and Nietes himself credited Aldeguer for the boxer’s work ethic and attitude.

Aldeguer, a staunch disciplinarian, even said that one time Nietes and a former ALA fighter broke their curfew and were locked out of their stable.

“They went to the mall and failed to make it to our 8 p.m. curfew. When the guard refused to let them in, they called me and said they were late and asked if they could come in.

I said, ‘No, go find a place to spend the night,’“ he said.

“So you have Nietes, a world champion, and Bautista, the most famous ALA fighter at that time, spending the night under the flyover for breaking curfew!” he said.

Now, the boxing patron who once rejected Nietes for being too skinny and frail is all praises for his boxer.

“I’ve had a lot of boxers in

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

the past, Gerry Penalosa, Edito.

But now I can proudly say this, ‘There is only one Donnie Nietes,” he said.

“Winning a title in boxing is very difficult, staying a champion for seven years is 100 times more difficult,” Aldeguer said.

Nietes, who is now 34-1-4 with 20 knockouts and is under negotiation to fight a Japanese in Macau next month, also thanked ALA, his trainers, stablemates and all the staff of ALA gym in his speech.

“I can’t achieve what I have achieved today if not for you,” he said, and addressing his fellow boxers. “Just listen to the advice of sir ALA, don’t let success get into your head and always stay humble.”

The emcee of the testimonial dinner, veteran writer Ronnie Nathanielsz, who is a friend of Flash Elorde and his family, also has positive words for the champion.

“Elorde and Nietes are similar. They have the same humility and decency outside the ring. Mrs. Elorde even told me that ‘I am glad that the one who surpasses Elorde’s record is himself and a decent Filipino champion,” said Nathanielsz. ■

43

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Race influences... director of the Center for Clinical Cancer Genetics at the University of Chicago Medical School.

“But if you treat all cancers the same in all populations, you are not recognizing the biological differences that happen in human beings.”

She said the advent of registries like the one Narod and his colleagues mined finally gives researchers granular data to study. “The data are speaking to us in very different ways than we had been accustomed to because they now break everybody down by their race and their ethnicity.”

But Dr. Otis Brawley, chief medical officer of the American Cancer Society, suggested the differences in survival outcomes may not be down to race but rather socio-economic factors.

He said girls who are born into poor families have poorer diets, are more likely to gain weight in childhood and are more likely to start menstruating early. Early start of men❰❰ 37

A patient preparing for breast cancer screening by mammography.

struation is linked to an increased risk of breast cancer.

Brawley said studies done in Scotland — in an all-white cohort — showed that women who were economically deprived in childhood had higher rates of

breast cancer later in life and were more likely to develop breast cancer at a younger age than women who were more economically advantaged.

He said the American Cancer Society would expect to

Bill Cosby’s... it,” said Joseph DeBenedictis. “I support his comedy but not at all what he’s done if it has happened. It’s kind of hard to be here and say that.”

While DeBenedictis said Cosby had handled the disruptions to his show in a professional manner, he hoped there would eventually be some resolution around the allegations dogging the comedian.

“I hope the truth comes out, guilty or not,” he said.

Every ticket holder who saw Cosby — and there were some who chose to skip out on his performances — would have had to make a conscious decision to attend, noted one observer.

“If they really wanted to go they would say in their hearts ‘these are simply allegations, there are no charges yet, everyone has the presumption of innocence,’ so in that way they could convince themselves to go,” said Penny Collenette, a law professor at the University of Ottawa who studies ethical issues.

“The people that bought tickets and did not go made a very strong ethical and moral de❰❰ 34

WIKIMEDIA COMMONS

see similar survival outcomes among poor white women as among poor black women — and even middle- and upperincome black women who grew up poor.

“I believe it’s race for social

reasons, and not race for biologic reasons,” Brawley said.

“There are a lot of lifestyle factors that actually do affect biology and change biology.”

Olopade disputed Brawley’s position, saying there are many poor Asian immigrants in the United States but their breast cancer outcomes are not on a par with those of black women.

Narod said that among all racial or ethnic groups, the seven-year survival rates were good when breast cancers were detected when the tumour was under two centimetres in size.

For women of Japanese heritage, the survival rate was nearly 99 per cent. For white women it was 95 per cent, and for black women it was 91 per cent, he said.

“Those are all pretty good, but there’s a hell of a big difference between a one per cent chance of dying and a ... nine per cent chance of dying,” said Narod. “That’s an extraordinary difference from that point of view.” ■

A look at... cision… the people that went jumped over that hurdle.”

An element of denial might also be impacting Cosby’s core fan base, Collenette added.

“This is somebody that is sort of like Santa Claus,” she said.

“Everybody’s loved this guy for so long and it’s sort of ‘oh, no it can’t be true.’”

Those who withstood the freezing Canadian winter to protest Cosby outside the theatres where he performed took issue with that sort of reasoning.

“To all those people that are basing it just off the innocent until guilty plea, those people to me are looking for an excuse to validate their interests,” said Katie Gosen, who had organized a demonstration against Cosby in Kitchener.

“There are so many people who are guilty of endless crimes that will never be charged.”

In recent weeks at least 18 women, including three who came forward in Los Angeles this week, have accused Cosby of sexually assaulting them, with some claims dating back decades.

The comedian, who played

the congenial Dr. Cliff Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ from 1984 to 1992, has never been criminally charged in connection with the allegations and has denied them through his lawyer.

He even appeared to make light of the scandal at one point during his London performance.

As a woman got up from one of the front rows and walked past the stage, Cosby asked her where she was going. When she said she was going to the lobby to grab a drink Cosby responded with a line that got a mix of applause and light groans.

“You have to be careful about drinking around me,” he said wryly.

Cosby’s approach to the controversy — both his tonguein-cheek comment and his response to disruptions — could also have fuelled the waves of applause and calls of “we love you Bill” heard at his performances, Collenette said.

“Everybody loves a fighter,” she said. “There would be a ‘gee, he’s familiar and he’s funny and I like him and he’s really got problems right now so let’s give him a good round of applause.’” ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

them, pressure in the The black boxes were even hydraulic lines and more important to figuring out the position of the what happened to Air France flaps, rudder and landing gear.

Flight 447, which disappeared While it could take up to two over the Atlantic Ocean while weeks to analyze all the data, flying from Rio de Janeiro to investigators shouldn’t have Paris in 2009. Investigators any problems reading it. The were ultimately able to pull boxes are designed to with- them from the depths of the stand a 2,012-deocean and learn gree fire lasting about mistakes 30 minutes, then the pilots made a 500-degree fire after their plane lasting 10 hours went into an as well as presI don’t aerodynamic sure from sea understand stall. depths of up to what’s In the back20,000 feet. happening. ground of the In past crashfrenzied cones, the flight data versation, comand cockpit data puter-generated recorders have voices can be provided key information for heard warning “Stall. Stall. investigators.

Stall.” The alarm sounded nuWhen Asiana Airlines Flight merous times during the flight’s 214 landed short of the runway final minutes. in San Francisco in 2013, it was The chilling transcript also the data recorder that showed includes moments like one of that pilots had let the plane fall the pilots saying: “I don’t underwell below its normal landing stand what’s happening.” Secspeed and that they realized onds later, the other pilot says: this mistake only seconds be- “Damn it, I don’t have control of fore touching down when they the plane, I don’t have control of tried to speed up. the plane at all.” ■ ❰❰ 21

44

Seen and Scenes

JANUARY 16, 2015

FRIDAY

OTTAWA RIZAL DAY RITES The Philippine Embassy in Ottawa recently led members of the Filipino community in paying tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal on the occasion of the 118th anniversary of his martyrdom. Chargé d’Affaires Uriel Norman R. Garibay presided over the simple rites at the chancery with the Knights of Rizal and Kababaihang Rizalista in Ottawa as special guests.

CANADA RELIEF FOR TYPHOON HAGUPIT Typhoon Hagupit relief goods from Canada being distributed in Borongan, Eastern Samar (Photos from Senator Enverga’s FB).

For photo submissions, please email info@canadianinquirer.net. www.canadianinquirer.net

Events

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

Diversity & Inclusion Charter of Peel Community Forum: Impact Assessment WHEN/WHERE: 6 to 9 p.m., Jan. 21 at Century Gardens Recreation Centre, 340 Vodden St. East, Brampton ON, L6V 2N2 MORE INFO: Free of Cost, open to the public. Registration is open until Jan. 21.

YUKON

CANADA EVENTS

NUNAVUT

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

ONTARIO

QUEBEC NEW BRUNSWICK

Winter-Spring Training 2015

By ISS of BC WHEN/WHERE: 14 Saturdays till Apr. 18, at the Immigrant Services Society of B.C., Royal City Centre – Rm. 280 610 – 6th St., New Westminster MORE INFO: Contact Liza at 604-395-8000 ext.

1706 or email: liza.delarosa@issbc.org

Drop-in Conversation Circles for Work Permit Holders (Burnaby)

By Mosaic WHEN/WHERE: 1 to 3 p.m., Jan 17 to Mar. 21 Saturdays at Brentwood Community Resource Centre, 2055 Rosser Ave., Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Call 604-292-3907 for details.

San Pablo City Fiesta

By Seven Lakes (San Pablo) Assn.

WHEN/WHERE: Jan. 15 at the Immaculate Conception Church, 8842-119 Street in Delta, B.C. MORE INFO: Contact Leo Cunanan, Sr. at 604-9803218 or Senen Alcos, 604-581-3570. Email: leo_cunanan@shaw.ca

Christian Unity: Have We Answered the Call?

By the Archdiocese of Vancouver WHEN/WHERE: Jan 17, St. Francis Xavier Church, Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: To register: visit rcav.org/Christian-unity-have-we-answered-the-call, contach 604-683-0281 ext 229, or emailecumenism@rcav.org

General Assembly of FilCan Community Leaders By the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver WHEN/WHERE: 5:30 p.m., Jan. 16, Multicultural Helping House Society, 4802 Fraser St., Vancouver, B.C. Kamikaze Comedy

By Art Factora and Patrick Maliha WHEN/WHERE: 9 p.m., Jan. 16 at 1261 Hamilton St., Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: $5 cover Interwoven Stories: Textiles, Costumes, Cultures – A Multicultural Fest By the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver WHEN/WHERE: Exhibit opens on Jan. 17, 2 to 4 p.m., at the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Vancouver at 555 Columbia Street, Vancouver, B.C. MORE INFO: Exhibit Dates: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Tuesday to Sunday, Jan. 17 to Feb. 15.

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2nd Winter Escapade By the Department of Tourism, Philippine Embassy and the Consulates of Toronto and Vancouver WHEN/WHERE: Jan. 30 to Feb. 6, Manila, Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Dumaguete MORE INFO: Go online www.winterescapadeph.com for details.

BRITISH COLUMBIA ALBERTA

45

27, and on Sundays, Jan. 11 to Mar. 1 at the Brighouse (Main) Branch, 2nd floor Community Place Rm., 7700 Minoru Gate.

MORE INFO: To register, visit any branch of Richmond public Library, register online at www.yourlibrary.ca/events or call 604-2316413

Burnaby Seniors’ Club Free Activities for Immigrant Seniors

By Mosaic Settlement Services WHEN/WHERE: (Burnaby North) Beginners’ English Practice – Jan. 21 to Mar. 5, Wed., 9:30 to 11:30 a.m Taichi – Jan. 23 to Mar. 27, Fri., 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

Free Workshop: What You Need to Know About English Conversation Circle – Jan. 23 to Strokes Mar. 27, Fri., 12:30 to 2:30 p.m.

By Mosaic Vancouver Seniors Club Brentwood Community Resource Centre, WHEN/WHERE: 10 a.m. to 12 nn at Jan. 19, Mosaic 2055 Rosser Ave., Burnaby B.C. (Burnaby Vancouver, 2nd Flr., 1720 Grant St., Vancouver, B.C. South) MORE INFO: Learn about the symptoms of a Upper Beginners’ English Practice – Jan. 12 stroke, the early warning signs and prevention measto Mar. 23, Mon., 9:30 to 11:30 ures.

Beginners’ English Practice – Jan. 23 to Mar. 27, Fri., 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.

17th Anniversary Dinner & Dance Knitting Club – Jan. 20 to Mar. 27, Tues., 2

By Friends of Sto. Nino Association of B.C. to 3:30 p.m.

WHEN/WHERE: 6:30 p.m., Jan. 25, St. Patrick’s Seniors’ Conversation Circle – Jan. 8 to Feb. Gymnasium 2881 Main St., Vancouver, B.C. 12, Thur., 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

Mosaic Burnaby Centre for Immigrants, 5902 My Tween & Me Multicultural Mom’s Support Kingsway St., Vancouver, B.C. Group

By Mosaic WHEN/WHERE: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Thursdays, Dunbar Hts. Church, 3320 Crown St., Vancouver MORE INFO: call Daisy 604-254-9626 ext. 273 To have your events English Corner

By Richmond Public Library WHEN/WHERE: 10 to 12 nn Fridays, up to to Feb. www.canadianinquirer.net

featured on PCI, please email events@canadianinquirer.net

FRIDAY JANUARY 16, 2015

CANADA

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OPPORTUNITY TO OWN THE FIRST BUILDING OF ITS KIND IN THE HOTTEST NEIGHBOURHOOD IN VANCOUVER

PRESENTATION CENTRE LOCATED AT THE CORNER OF MAIN & BROADWAY

FOR INFORMATION AND PRICING REGISTER AT

INDEPENDENTatMAIN.COM The Developer reserves the right to make changes and modifications to the information contained herein without prior notice. This is not an offering for sale, any such offering may only be made by way of a Disclosure Statement. E&OE.

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JANUARY 16, 2015

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