Philippine Canadian Inquirer #358

m

info@canadianinquirer.net

sales@canadianinquirer.net A 778-788-4998 facebook.com/ Philippine

CANADA’S FIRST AND ONLY NATIONWIDE FILIPINO-CANADIAN NEWSPAPER

CanadianInquirer twitter: @PhilCanInquirer

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

VOL. 1 NO. 358

www.canadianinquirer.net

BALLOT COUNT DRY RUN

Commission on Elections (Comelec) personnel hold a dry run of the counting of ballots to be used in the May 13 mid-term elections at the National Printing Office in Quezon City on February 9, 2019. The activity was simultaneously held with the printing of ballots for the polls.

OLIVER MARQUEZ / PNA

PRRD only ‘expressing an idea’ to rename PH

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo R. Duterte was only expressing an idea when he mentioned eyeing to change the name of the country from “Philippines” to “The Republic of Maharlika”, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

“Tingnan natin how (Let’s see how)… how it evolves. He is expressing an idea again… as usual,” Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said in a Palace briefing.

Although the President was just expressing an idea, Panelo said it is really up to Congress to enact a law to change

11

Measles, complications kill 70 nationwide in a month –DOH

21 A treat for the heart this V-Day

❱❱ PAGE 9 PRRD only

Get the latest news & updates www.canadianinquirer.net

❱❱ PAGES 25-28

Rap artists and women take centre stage at Grammy Awards

Philippine News

2

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Manila court orders DOJ to summon Joma in ‘terror tag’ plea

BY BENJAMIN PULTA Philippine News Agency MANILA — A Manila court hearing the government’s petition to declare the Communist Party of the Philippines and the New People’s Army (CPP-NPA) as terrorist organizations has dropped more than 600 names in the original petition filed by the government against the rebel group.

In an eight-page resolution dated February 1, Manila Regional Trial Court (RTC) Branch 19 Judge Marlo A. Magdoza-Malagar also directed the Department of Justice (DOJ) to instead serve summons to the organizations, through the terror groups’ known leaders Jose Maria Sison and Antonio Cabanatan.

“The addresses of Jose Maria Sison and Antonio Cabanatan being unknown, service of summons shall be made by publication,” the court ruled.

The order expunged the names of more than 600 personalities in the original gov-

ernment petition but whose links to the organization were not substantiated by evidence.

The DOJ has identified eight individuals as current officers of the CPP-NPA on whom summons may be served namely Sison, Cabanatan, Jorge Madlos, Jaime Padilla, Francisco Fernandez, Cloefe Lagapon, Leonido Nabong and Myrna Solarte.

The magistrate explained that “its interest in ensuring the petitioner (DOJ) identified only those with unassailable links to the respondent-organizations is not because these parties are considered respondents to the petition but only because their undisputed link to the CPP-NPA is necessary for this court to ensure proper service of summons and acquire jurisdiction over the instant petition and herein respondents,” The court, in underscoring Sison’s links, cited sworn statements from a number of individuals executed between 2003 and 2014 including the sworn statement of Ruben Guevarra

dated Jan. 15, 2003 executed at the General Headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) referring to Sison as the CPP-NPA Central Committee and Military Commission chairman and the direct head and mover of the NPA and the National Democratic Front (NDF).

Likewise cited was the sworn statement of Veronica Tabara dated May 22, 2006 and Oct. 9, 2006 in Sibulan, Negros Oriental referring to Sison as the founding, elected and recognized chairman of the Central Committee of the CPP/NPA/NDF. The court also considered affidavits of Gloria Asuncion in May 2006 naming Sison as the chief of the Political Bureau and the Executive Committee and Military Commission of the CPP/NPA as well as sworn statements of Rafael Cruz, Glecerio Roluna, and Numeriano Beringuel in Tacloban City.

The court also noted that an indictment in 2007 before the Hilongos, Leyte RTC Branch 18 accused Sison as leader of

the NPA members who were behind the murder of 15 persons whose bodies were found buried in a mass grave at Sitio Mt. Sapang Dako, Barangay Kauslisihan, Inopacan, Leyte.

An indictment in 2014 pending before the Manila RTC Branch 32 also named Sison for the murder of Juanita Aviola who was among those found buried in the Leyte along with Concepcion Aragon, Gregorio Eras, Teodoro Recones Jr., Restituto Ejoc, Rolando Vasquez, Junior Milyapis, Crispin Dalmacio, Zacarias Casil, Pablo Daniel, Romeo Tayabas, Domingo Napules, Ciriaco Daniel, Crispin Prado, Ereberto Prado. The deaths are suspected to be a purging by the organization of suspected military spies within its ranks.

The court said the DOJ’s amended petition excluding the names of personalities alleged to be members of the CPP-NPA shall be taken as basis for the court to declare nine individuals along with the 600 other personalities as “non-parties”

The nine, namely Joanna Carino, Joan Carlin, Jeannette Ribaya-Cawiding, Beverly L. Longid, Windel B. Bolinget Sr., Elisa Tita Lubi, Rey Claro Casambre, Sherwin De Vera and Randall B. Echanis as well as the more than 600 personalities named and enumerated in the DOJ’s original petition were labeled non-parties to the government’s amended petition.

Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra clarified that it is the CPP-NPA and not the individuals mentioned in the petition who are the subject of the action for a judicial declaration (or proscription) as terrorists.

“The individuals were named only for the purpose of serving summons on entities with unknown addresses. The increase or decrease in their number has no relevance to the main cause of action,” Guevarra told the Philippine News Agency.

The CPP-NPA has been tagged as a terror group by the United States and the European Union. ■

Thinking About Your Mortgage?

Think Clear Trust!

Ranked in the Top 10 Mortgage Brokerage Firms in Canada by Canadian Mortgage Professional 2 years in a row.

Over 120 registered mortgage advisors to serve you with offices in Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, and Toronto.

Clear Trust is the largest Asian-focussed independent mortgage brokerage firm fluent in various languages such as Tagalog, Cantonese, Mandarin, and more!

We provide financing for New Immigrants, First-time home buyers, Self-Employed, and various Alternative Lending options.

Handa kaming tumulong sa lahat ng inyong home financing needs.

Call us now at mag pa pre-qualify na sa Clear Trust. Sa Clear Trust Mortgages, we see things from a different point of view…YOURS!

www.canadianinquirer.net

info@cleartrust.ca

604.495.8787 Independently Owned & Operated

3

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

“ONLY ICBC Car Accident Claims.

Helping the victims of car accidents for close to 50 years.”

WE HANDLE ALL OF THE EXPENSES If no recovery, No Legal Fees or Expenses

ICBC CLAIMS ONLY -COMMENT BY THE CLIENT IN THE WEDDING ABBOTSFORD JAGO TRAGEDY AS REPORTED THE LINK NEWSPAPER DATED MARCH 21, 2011

CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION

604-689-8888 Vancouver address: 1301-808 Nelson Street, Vancouver, BC, V6Z 2H2

Cathy Rizzo

Delta office: 7253 120th Street, Delta BC, V4C 6P5

Senior Counsel

Over 23 years of experience representing victims injured in car accidents, including the catastrophically injured

LOW LEGAL FEES

Simpson, Thomas & Associates

24% INCLUDING TRIAL

TRIAL LAWYERS

Translation Services Available

BRAIN INJURY QUADRIPLEGIA PARAPLEGIA SPINAL CORD INJURY WHIPLASH Reduced legal fees on brain injury paraplegia and quadriplegia cases. 20% including Trial

WWW.SIMPSONTHOMAS.COM

NAIINTINDIHAN NAMIN ANG WIKA NIYO Burnaby (Room E, Suite 219, 4501 North Road (By Appointment only) 604-689-8888 Abbotsford; 33222 Old Yale Road (By appointment only) 604-689-8888 Simpson Thomas & Associates is proud to have been awarded an A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau.

www.canadianinquirer.net

4

h

h

hq

ih

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

h q

i

h

PCI

FRIDAY

i

ih

q

Hearts are everywhere and love is in the air.

May this season bring you more love.

i

PCI Entertainment. www.canadianinquirer.net

i h

h

i h i

PCI News.

i

PCI Exclusive.

PCI Life.

h i

i

Happy Valentine’s Day

h

h

i

i

5

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

www.canadianinquirer.net

6

Philippine News

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

Japan vows to assist PH in fight vs. terrorism

VANCOUVER TO CLARK FOR AS LOW AS VANCOUVER TO MANILA FOR AS LOW AS

MANILA — The Japanese government has reiterated its commitment to assist the Philippines in fighting terrorism, Malacañang said on Monday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said this was the assurance made

by Japan Foreign Minister Taro Kono to President Rodrigo R. Duterte during a courtesy call in Davao City on February 9.

Kono met Duterte to personally relay Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s commitment to deepen cooperation between the two countries and concern over the twin explosions in Jolo, Sulu.

“FM Kono likewise conveyed PM Abe’s grave concern over the twin explosions in Jolo, Sulu and expressed Japan’s condemnation of the terrorism and violent extremism and their commitment to assist the Philippines in combatting the scourge of terrorism,” Panelo said in a statement.

Panelo, however, said the Japanese government has not yet particularized in detail how it would help the Philippines — either by military exercises or acquisition of defense equipment.

He said that Kono also lauded the success of the holding of the Bangsamoro Organic Law (BOL) plebiscite, reiterating support for the Philippines’ quest for lasting peace in Mindanao.

Kono also expressed Japan’s commitment to rehabilitate and reconstruct Marawi and develop the Autonomous

Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), including funding of the Road Network Development Plan for ARMM, Panelo said.

Moreover, Kono recognized the Philippines’ contribution to the socio-economic development of Japan and conveyed Japan’s plan to open up its labor market for qualified Filipinos.

For his part, Duterte described Japan as “a true friend and proven partner” for its involvement in the Philippines’ “Build, Build, Build” program, Panelo said.

Duterte highlighted the quality of the infrastructure projects and the transfer of technology and training embedded in the projects that would benefit Filipino practitioners and experts.

The President stressed the need to continue strengthening the strategic partnership, particularly in addressing transnational crimes and conventional and emerging regional threats.

Panelo said Duterte also expressed his desire to meet Abe again to discuss developments in bilateral ties and assess ways of moving forward together on shared concerns but has yet to confirm if he had plans to visit Japan.

The two leaders were last seen together during the 33rd Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Singapore in November 2018.

Kono recently attended the inauguration of Japan’s Consulate General in Davao which he described as “significantly expanding Japan’s presence and ties in the southern Philippines.” ■

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte discusses pertinent matters with Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono who paid a courtesy call on the President at the Matina Enclaves in Davao City on February 9, 2019.

TOTO LOZANO / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

CAD 648.00 CAD 648.00

AIRFARE + HOTEL Las Vegas 4 days 3 nights from

(May 10) Seattle Cruisetour 2 days 1 night from

Anaheim Disneyland 4 days 3 nights from

Canadian Rockies 4 days 3 nights (4 in a room)

CAD 299.00

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency

FRIDAY

CAD 585.00

CAD 223.00 CAD 184.00

Whistler 1 day tour

Victoria 1 day tour

Seattle 1 day tour

CAD 50.00

CAD 120.00

CAD 50.00

sebangsusana@hotmail.com

AFP plans chief, ex-spox Padilla retires

BY PRIAM NEPOMUCENO Philippine News Agency

tion program that will allow the implementation and continuous support to the modernization of the Armed Forces.

Moreover, he facilitated the activation of MANILA — Armed Forces of the Philip- the AFP Systems Engineering Office (AFpines (AFP) Deputy Chief-of-Staff for PSEO) and the AFP International Military Plans and former spokesperson, Major Affairs Center (AFP IMAC) to rationalize Gen. Restituto Padilla, formally retired the Defense and Armed Forces Attaché from the service. postings and other IDSE commitments.

AFP Chief-of-Staff Gen. Benjamin Prior his appointment to J-5, Padilla was Madrigal presided over Padilla’s retire- the assistant deputy chief-of-staff for civilment ceremony at the General Headquar- military operations, J-7 and AFP spokesters Building in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon person since November 2014. He was also City on Tuesday. the former AFP liaison Padilla will reach officer to the US Pacifthe military mandaic Command in Honotory retirement age lulu, Hawaii from 2011 of 56 on February 14. to 2014.

Major Gen. “Major Gen. Padilla His military career Padilla has has proven himself to began when he enproven himself be an accomplished tered the Philippine to be an military-diplomat Military Academy accomplished and strategic thinker.

(PMA) in 1981, later militaryAs chief planner and graduating with the diplomat strategist, he led the PMA Class of 1985. and strategic office in different Following his gradthinker. endeavors towards uation from the acadthe attainment of emy, he joined the the AFP’s objective Philippine Air Force through the sound implementation of its and earned his Aviator (Pilot) Wings from mission and programs,” Madrigal said. the PAF Flying School in 1987.

Padilla served as the AFP deputy Meanwhile, Brig. Gen. Cornelio Vachief-of-staff for plans or J-5, in military lencia Jr., the current assistant deputy parlance, for almost one year and six chief-of-staff for plans, AJ-5 will assume months starting September 2017.

Padilla’s position in an acting capacity.

During his stint, he supervised the AFP’s He was previously assigned as the Philinternational affairs in various bilateral en- ippine Army’s assistant chief-of-staff for gagements with allied nations, as well as the plans and programs, G-5. approval of the Standard Operating Proce“Having been assigned to various leaddures on the General Policies and Guide- ership and staff positions in the Army, I lines in the Conduct of AFP International can personally vouch that Brig. Gen. VaDefense and Security Engagements (IDSE). lencia Jr. embodies the values and the He also led the formulation of the com- character that will fit well for the post,” plete 15-year Revised AFP Moderniza- Madrigal said. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net

Philippine News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

7

Duterte doesn’t believe he has ‘magical’ power to endorse

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo R. Duterte does not think that he possesses any “magical” power to endorse candidates of his choice in the upcoming mid-term elections, Malacañang said on Tuesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo was responding to analysts and observers saying that the May elections would test the President’s power to endorse his candidates.

“I don’t think the President believes in his so-called magical power to endorse,” Panelo said in a Palace briefing, noting that Duterte is simply backing

candidates he feels are worthy of getting a Senate seat.

“What he’s giving the people is, ‘These are the people that I personally feel are capable of being in the Senate,’” he added.

Panelo disagreed that the failure of administration allies to win in the mid-term elections would mean voter rejection of the Duterte administration.

“I think the President will agree with me that the — even the winning of an opposition candidate doesn’t mean a repudiation of the administration,” he said.

“It only means that when opposition candidates win, it is an expression of the electorate telling them that we’re putting you there to cooperate with this

administration because we believe in this presidency and not you to destabilize it,” he added.

Meanwhile, Panelo said the President will not solicit support from any religious organization because “it was not his style.”

“The President never asks help from any specific religion.

What he does is he expresses himself and he tells us why he is doing this and that,” he said.

Panelo said Kingdom of Jesus Christ head, Pastor Apollo Quiboloy endorsed Duterte during his presidential campaign “because he was a friend.”

He also called on Cabinet members anew to strictly follow election laws and assured that the Duterte administra-

Pres. Rodrigo Duterte.

tion is not using public funds to endorse any candidate.

Duterte, he said, wants to have a “clean, honest, fair, credible elections.”

“The President called upon the members of the Cabinet to strictly follow the rules on the prohibition on government employees, officials not to cam-

KING RODRIGUEZ / PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

paign for or against any political candidate; exempting himself, because the provision says he is exempted from it,” Panelo said.

“Let me just emphasize that he will not be using government resources. In the course of his endorsement, it will be just verbal endorsement,” he added. ■

701 hotspots identified for 2019 polls: PNP

BY CHRISTOPHER LLOYD CALIWAN Philippine News Agency MANILA — Some 701 areas in the country have been identified as election hotspots as the campaign period for national candidates began on Tuesday.

In a press briefing in Camp Crame, Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde, said the figure consists of 223 areas of concern (yellow category), 382 areas of immediate concern (orange category), 94 areas of grave concern (red category), and two areas under control of the Commission on Elections (Comelec).

Albayalde said a place tagged as an area of concern means it has a history of election-related incidents in the last two elections and intense political rivalry, and it had been previously declared under Comelec control.

Meanwhile, areas of immediate concern are those where there is serious armed threat posed by the New People’s Army (NPA), Bangsamoro Islamic Freedom Fighters (BIFF), Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG), and rogue elements of the Moro National Liberation Front (MNLF), and Moro Islamic Liberation Front

(MILF) and other lawless elements.

Areas of grave concern exhibit the combined factors under the yellow and orange categories, such that it may warrant the motu proprio (on its own) declaration of Comelec control.

Under the law, the Comelec may place any political subdivision under its immediate and direct control and supervision if, among other things, there is a history of or current intense political rivalry among contending parties, as these rivalries could motivate people to engage in violent acts.

“On election matters, as the campaign period gets underway for national elective positions in the May 13, 2019 mid-term elections, the PNP is seriously considering some adjustments in our projected deployment of police units and personnel for election duties,” Albayalde said.

Of the 94 areas of grave concern, 27 are in the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), 19 in the Bicol region, seven each in Calabarzon and Western Mindanao, six each in Mimaropa and Western Visayas, five in Northern Mindanao, four each in Soccsksargen and the Cordillera region, three in Eastern Visayas, two each in Central Luzon and Davao region and one each in Caraga and

PNP Chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde.

Cagayan Valley.

Regions without areas of grave concern include Ilocos, National Capital Region (NCR) and Central Visayas.

In the NCR, five areas — Manila, Caloocan, Pasay, Mandaluyong, and Malabon – have been classified as areas of concern.

“Currently in effect for the entire duration of the campaign www.canadianinquirer.net

JOEY O. RAZON / PNA

period is a set of rules imposed by the Comelec, specifically on prescribed limits of campaign activities and other illegal acts defined under the Omnibus Election Code,” Albayalde said.

He also reiterated the PNP’s strict compliance with all Comelec resolutions on the ban on carrying firearms and employment of bodyguards.

“Everyone is reminded of the

Alunan Doctrine that allows only two security personnel under extreme cases, subject to background investigation and approval by Comelec,” he added.

The PNP chief also pointed out that aside from the mandated responsibilities of the PNP as a deputized agency of the Comelec, police law enforcement and public safety duties for election security operations is contained in the following eight-point SIDEPLAN: -Strict implementation of gun ban; -Intensified focus law enforcement operations; -Dismantling of private armed groups; -Early preparation of security and contingency plans; -Provide security to vulnerable candidates; -Limited reshuffle of PNP personnel; -Accounting of loose firearms; and -Neutralization of guns for hire and criminal gangs He also reminded PNP personnel to “remain apolitical” to ensure clean and honest elections.

“We will ensure to remain apolitical and to protect the will of the electorate by ensuring honest, orderly and peaceful elections in May,” he said. ■

Philippine News

8

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Palace defends Duterte endorsement of Jinggoy’s senate bid Correspondent/Hosts Bea Kirstein T. Manalaysay Joanna Belle Deala Gianna Llanes Arianne Grace U. Lacanilao Violeta Arevelo Babes Newland Graphic Design Shanice Garcia Ginno Alcantara Arlnie Colleene Talain Singca Account Manager Kristopher Yong Director/Producer Boom Dayupay Photographers/Videographers Ginno Alcantara Maria Crizandra Baylon Sales Aireen De Asis Paul Acosta Dennis Cruz Operations and Admin Victoria Yong Amelia Insigne Management Alan Yong Victoria Yong For photo submissions, please email editor@canadianinquirer.net For General Inquiries, please email info@canadianinquirer.net For Sales Inquiries, please email sales@canadianinquirer.net or contact 778-788-4998 Philippine Canadian Inquirer is located at 11951 Hammersmith Way, Suite 108 Richmond, B.C. V7A 5H9 Canada

Email: info@canadianinquirer.net, sales@canadianinquirer.net Philippine Canadian Inquirer is published weekly every Friday.

Copies are distributed free throughout Metro Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and Greater Toronto.

The views and opinions expressed in the articles (including opinions expressed in ads herein) are those of the authors named, and are not necessarily those of Philippine Canadian Inquirer Editorial Team.

PCI reserves the right to reject any advertising which it considers to contain false or misleading information or involves unfair or unethical practices. The advertiser agrees the publisher shall not be liable for damages arising out of error in any advertisement.

Member

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency MANILA — Malacañang on Monday defended the decision of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to include former Senator Jinggoy Estrada on his list of preferred senatorial candidates for the upcoming May elections.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo said that the public cannot begrudge the President for endorsing Estrada because he is still presumed innocent despite being accused of plunder in relation to the multi-billion peso “pork barrel” scam.

“Number one, Senator Estrada or former Senator Estrada is charged with corruption. And the Constitution says, unless you are convicted by final judgment, you are presumed to be innocent.

So the presumption is Estrada is innocent,” Panelo said.

Panelo also pointed out that Estrada has been granted bail by the Sandiganbayan Special 5th Division in 2017.

“Number two, he’s been granted bail.

And the reason for the court’s grant of provisional liberty is anchored on the fact that the evidence of guilt is not strong,” Panelo said.

“So you cannot begrudge the President for endorsing a man who is presumed to be innocent under the law; otherwise you are prejudging him,” he added.

Pres. Spokesman Salvador Panelo.

was “unfair” to presume that a person is guilty unless he or she has been convicted.

“In my practice of law, even before joining the government, you cannot be assuming and presuming and spreading the guilt of a person unless he’s been finally convicted,” Panelo said.

Panelo insisted that Estrada is not a member of the Cabinet and was accused of plunder when he was a member of the Congress.

Meanwhile, Panelo said the President’s endorsement of Estrada will not affect his tough stance versus corruption.

OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENTIAL SPOKESPERSON / FACEBOOK

such time, we cannot speculate on whom he will support; except for the names he has already mentioned,” Panelo said.

Panelo, however, said that the President will definitely have his “preferred candidates” and will actively campaign for them.

“The President will endorse certain candidates of his choice so presumably he will be actively campaigning since he is not prohibited by law to do so,” Panelo told reporters in an interview after the press briefing.

Whiff of corruption “An endorsement could translate into On Friday, Duterte endorsed Estrada votes given the popularity of the Presiby raising his hand in a speech in Legazdent but the ultimate judgment will be pi City. on the part of the Earlier, the Presipeople,” he added. dent said he would Meanwhile, Panelo also endorse Essaid that while Presitrada’s half-brother, dent may endorse his The President will endorse certain candidates reelectionist Sen. JV preferred candidates, of his choice so presumably he will be actively Ejercito. he will never use campaigning since he is not prohibited by law Amid criticism that any government reto do so.

Duterte is endorsing source in support of or a plunder-accused against any candidate. candidate despite his “He said, ‘I will not stance to fire Cabinet officials involved “The survey will tell you that the allow any government fund to be used in in even a “whiff” of corruption, Panelo President has made many perceived to support or against any particular candiexplained that investigation has to run be unpopular decisions, and yet the sur- date,’” Panelo said. its course. vey remains very high. In other words, Duterte has previously endorsed at “A whiff of corruption does not mean Filipino people trust this man. They’re least 10 candidates namely former Spea reckless receipt of an allegation of cor- confident and believe in his judgment. cial Assistant to the President Chrisruption and a decision to fire the person And ultimately, it’s the people who will topher “Bong” Go, Philippine National subject of that information. The Presi- decide anyway,” Panelo said.

Police (PNP) chief and Bureau of Cordent as a lawyer investigates any allerections head Rolando “Bato” dela Rosa, gation of corruption before he makes a ‘Presidential slate’ and former Presidential Political Affairs move,” Panelo said.

With only a day left before the start of Adviser Francis Tolentino.

“Before he fires people, there’s infor- the campaign season, Panelo said that He has also endorsed Ilocos Norte mation that reaches him and he orders the President has yet to release an “ad- Gov. Imee Marcos, folk singer Freddie an investigation immediately,” he added. ministration slate” of candidates.

Aguilar, Taguig Rep. Pia Cayetano, and Panelo, who is also Chief Presiden“He (Duterte) has not made any state- reelectionist senators Sonny Angara tial Legal Counsel, emphasized that it ment on that. Hopefully he will. But until and Cynthia Villar. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

Philippine News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

9

PRRD only... ❰❰ 1

Col. Noel Detoyato.

PTV

Mandatory ROTC necessary to instill patriotism among youth: AFP

BY PRIAM NEPOMUCENO Philippine News Agency MANILA — A mandatory Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) program will help instill the need and value of protecting the nation to the youth.

Col. Noel Detoyato, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) public affairs office chief, made this comment when sought for a reaction regarding the House of Representatives’ approval on second reading of a proposed bill seeking to reinstate mandatory ROTC for Grades 11 and 12.

“The AFP believes it is time to bring back mandatory ROTC in schools to ensure that the youth are shaped with a deep sense of patriotism and love for country,” Detoyato said in a message to the Philippine News Agency Monday night.

Since protecting the nation is a concern of every citizen, mandatory ROTC enrolment will help instill this to the youth.

“It will also help the AFP in further strengthening its reserve force to augment the regular force in external defense and disaster response,” the AFP official added.

House Bill 8961 seeks to amend for the purpose Republic

Act 7077 or the Citizen Armed Forces of the Philippines Reservist Act. Under the proposed measure, ROTC training would apply to “all students in Grades 11 and 12 in all senior high schools in public and private educational institutions.”

The bill also states that ROTC training shall be a requirement for graduation.

As provided, the following students may be exempted: those who are physically or psychologically unfit; those who have undergone or are undergoing similar military training; those who are chosen by their school to serve as the school’s varsity players in sports competition; and those who may be exempted from training for valid reasons as approved by the Department of National Defense, upon recommendation by an educational institution where the concerned student is enrolled.

The proposed measure also strictly prohibits the use of ROTC training for “political” objective and for teaching and instilling a particular political ideology on students.

House Bill 8961 also specifically bans hazing and other forms of physical or mental abuse. ■

the country’s name.

“Well his reason is, the word be it can be changed someday),” “Congress may ‘maharlika’ is a Malay word. Duterte said in a speech in Buenact a law that can And ‘di ba, marami nang nag- luan, Maguindanao. change the name of the country criticize na iyongPhilippines “Actually, tama si Marcos. Paand then submit it to the people was named after King Philip nahon ni Marcos, tama talaga si for a referendum,” Panelo told (And remember, there were Marcos. Gusto niya palitan. Mareporters in an interview after many criticizing the fact that harlika (Actually, Marcos was the briefing.

Philippines was named after right. During Marcos’ time, he “By proposing a bill, then King Philip),” Panelo said. was really right. He wanted to magde-deliberate ‘yun sa ConPanelo was referring to Phil- change it to Maharlika). The gress ‘di lahat ng mga players ip II, king of Spain during the Republic of Maharlika because puwede niya imbitihan (then it Spanish colonization of the Maharlika is a Malay word and will be deliberated in Congress country in the 16th century. it means more of a concept of so all players can be invited),” He said the President might serenity and peace,” he added. he added. have preferred the name “MaPanelo, however, said that it Panelo said was not Marcos that charter who first came change could up with the idea also possibly alto rename the low the country country to MaCongress may enact a law that can to be renamed. harlika but could change the name of the country “Some may arnot remember and then submit it to the people for gue, ‘you can no who did. a referendum. longer change “A c t u a l l y, that kasi (bethat’s not Mr. cause) it’s in the Marcos’ idea. I C o n st i t u t i o n .’ forgot the name Others may argue also that ‘hin- harlika” because it meant “roy- of that person. But Mr. Mardi kaya lang inilagay sa Consti- alty.” cos at that time welcomed that tution (it’s not in the ConstituOn Monday, Duterte first idea, but it was not his original tion),’” Panelo said. suggested changing the coun- (idea),” Panelo said.

“So, kung palitan natin ng ba- try’s name agreeing with forPanelo also cited how former tas, automatically puwede mo mer President Ferdinand Mar- Batasang Pambansa member ring palitan (But if we change cos’ proposal.

Eddie Ilarde filed Parliamentathe Constitution, you can also “Philippines because it was ry Bill 195 in 1978, which sought change the name),” he added. discovered by Magellan using to change the country’s name to Asked why Duterte came up the money of King Philip. Kaya Maharlika. ■ with the idea to rename the pagdating ng u***, ginawang Philippines, Panelo said that it (So when he came here, he might be the President’s way named it) Philippines. Pero of “asserting our national iden- okay na ‘yan. Balang araw palitity.” tan natin (But that’s okay. May-

www.canadianinquirer.net

10

Philippine News

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

DSWD warns public anew vs. ‘online adoption’

BY MA. TERESA MONTEMAYOR Philippine News Agency MANILA — The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) on Saturday warned the public anew against participating in illegal adoption facilitated online through social media accounts.

In a legal adoption media forum, DSWD Assistant Secretary Glenda Relova said online adoptions are considered scams which could endanger the lives of children and parents involved.

“We warn the public not participate in such scams, kami sa (we in) DSWD we have this forum and a month-long celebration of the adoption consciousness to inform everyone that the adoption process is not that tedious. Dadaan muna sa DSWD administratively nang walang bayad, afterwards the judicial process will start,” she said.

Marikina City Regional Trial Court Branch 168 Judge Lorna Catris-Chua Cheng said adoption through social media is dangerous as it usually involves human traffickers who pretend to be the adoptees’ parents.

Chua Cheng added they also result to simulated births — a scenario where adoptive mother presents themselves as the real or biological mothers which is considered tampering with the civil registry of children “Delikado ang simulated births dahil sa mga relatives ng adoptive parents na medyo hindi maganda ang ugali. Lalo na kung mayaman ang (Simulated births are dangerous because of the adoptive parents’ relatives who might have bad character.

Especially if they are rich adop-

PDEA confirms Sinulog party teen victim died due to ecstasy overdose

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer

DSWD's legal adoption media forum.

DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WELFARE AND DEVELOPMENT/ FACEBOOK

tive parents. Someone who is not biological child or legally adopted child is not a compulsory heir. The adoptive parents’ relatives might create a case for them to get the heir,” she said.

Relova explained that DSWD will send social workers to the whereabouts of couples or individuals who adopted children online or engaged simulated births.

“Ito ay para mabigyan sila (This is to give them) advice on legal adoption. We will pursue the legal consequences to get information and to catch the online perpetrators, but of course, we also don’t want to punish these people who have the heart to share their love and homes to the homeless.

To solve this issue, House of Representatives Social Welfare Committee Secretary Catherine Macapagal said a bill rectifying simulated birth records and providing administrative adoption proceedings is waiting to be signed by President Rodrigo Duterte.

“There are several hundred thousand of Filipinos who have been adopted in this manner, the child is deprived of legal rights compared to those adopted legally. The aim of this bill to provide legal relation be-

tween the adoptees and adoptive parents,” she said.

While stressing that all participants in the simulated births are considered a crime, Macapagal stressed that the bill is not solely to provide amnesty for the parents who will be charged of it.

“It is for the benefit of the children to have all the benefits of adoption, status, rights under the law in the society. The petitioners who are the known parents of the child will have to file a petition in the form of an affidavit in the social welfare development office of the city of municipality where the child resides,” she added.

Relova urged the public to visit DSWD’s field offices for legal adoption information.

“Tulungan ninyo ang DSWD na mai-disseminate ang information na hindi tedious ang legal adoption process, nastreamline na ang ilang processes namin. Para hindi kayo magkamali sa pag-aampon, huwag online, bumisita kayo sa amin (Help DSWD to disseminate the information that legal adoption process is not that tedious, we’ve streamlined the other processes. To avoid adoption mistakes, don’t go online, visit us),” she added. ■

www.canadianinquirer.net

FRIDAY

AFTER THE President vowed to bring justice to a 19-year-old that died while attending a preSinulog party last month, the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency’s (PDEA’s) autopsy report confirmed that the victim died from drug overdose.

This after Chief Superintendent Debold Sinas, Police Regional Office (PRO)-Central Visayas Director reported the PDEA’s findings on the death of Ashley Abad, a nursing student. Though the report will be forwarded to their office next week, it says that Abad’s cause of death was overdose from ecstasy.

According to the officer, the victim’s boyfriend, Nel Spencer Tiu, is their “primary suspect” and that they will be asking the subpoena power of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief, Director General Oscar Albayalde to summon him.

“If dili siya mu show up, after the subpoena, damputon namo siya (If he does not show up, after the subpoena, we will arrest him),” Sinas added.

Abad was reportedly with her boyfriend and friends when they attended a concert at the Cebu Business Park on January 19, when she collapsed at the venue. Though she was brought to the hospital, she died a day after.

Sinas also admitted that the case was frustrating as Tiu and Abad’s other companions refused to cooperate with the po-

lice’s investigation.

Earlier, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte directly got involved in Abad’s case, questioning in a speech last Friday, February 8, why human rights groups are ‘silent’ over her death when they continue to throw tirades on his campaign against illegal drugs.

“Kahapon ‘yung kay Ashley, ‘yung bata na namatay (Yesterday, Ashley, the teen who died, [her]) parents went there sa opisina ko (to my office). Kaganda na bata (What a beautiful lass). Nineteen years old.

Medical student. Ang human rights [groups], wala akong narinig sa mga p*tang i**** ‘yan (I cannot hear anything from human rights groups, these motherf******),” Duterte had said.

The Chief Executive stressed that Abad’s case an example of how illegal drugs can destroy the lives of the youth.

Though the President did not reveal more details on his meeting with the Abad family, Sinas said that the filing of criminal charges against Tiu and the other identified companions in the party are from an order by Duterte.

Abad’s remains were laid to rest last January 27. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

11

PRRD reminds gov’t agencies to complete infra projects

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency MANILA – President Rodrigo R. Duterte has reminded all government agencies, including state universities and colleges and local governments, to ensure the “timely” completion of infrastructure projects in the country.

Under Memorandum Circular No. 57 signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea by authority of the President on Feb. 7, 2019, Duterte ordered heads of all offices and agencies to “strictly observe the laws, issuances, and policies pertaining to the timely completion of government infrastructure projects, including the imposition of appropriate sanctions for infractions and violations.”

“The heads and concerned officials shall ensure that in undertaking government infrastructure projects, all measures to promote the safety of, and mitigate inconvenience to the public are in place,” the memorandum read.

It designated the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), chair of the infrastructure cluster, to

lead in enhancing the delivery of public infrastructure by ensuring efficient and transparent management of assets and resources.

The DPWH will also be in charge of improving the quality of reliability of public infrastructure and public investment efficiency, strengthening implementation capacity and budget execution of government agencies involved in infrastructure development, and ensuring equitable access to infrastructure services.

In issuing the memo, Duterte, who has repeatedly expressed frustration over corruption and red-tape in government, also noted that the public will be inconvenienced by unfinished infrastructure projects.

“Unfinished government infrastructure projects cause great inconvenience and serious damage to the prejudice of the general public and adversely affect the delivery of basic services,” the memo read.

“The development goals of accelerating infrastructure development and ensuring efficient governance remain as overriding objectives of the government under the Philippine Development Plan 2017-

2022,” it added.

In a Palace briefing, Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo explained that the President’s memorandum should serve as a “warning” to heads of agencies and offices not to engage in corruption or red tape.

“The reason of the delay is there are legal restraints.

Sometimes it’s bureaucracy, bureaucratic red tape, sometimes corruption. He issued that memorandum because he’s warning everyone: ‘Don’t do that,’” Panelo said in Filipino.

“I told you about his frustration over the requirements, how it’s taking too long. Of course, he’s annoyed because the President is not fond of protocol, he wants things done immediately,” he added.

Duterte walked out of the recent Cabinet meeting over frustration that some project applications have been pending before the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) for over 20 years.

Earlier, he also threatened to fire officials of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) if they do not speed up the land use conversion process. ■

DOJ gives Lapeña more time to answer raps

BY BENJAMIN PULTA Philippine News Agency MANILA — Prosecutors have given embattled former customs chief Isidro Lapeña 10 days to answer the complaint against him by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for his possible liability in the entry into the country of billions of pesos worth of illegal drugs stashed inside magnetic lifters.

On Monday, the Department of Justice (DOJ) prosecution panel conducted a hearing into the case which was attended by Lapeña’s counsel John Telan and was given until February 21 to file a counter affidavit to the NBI’s complaint.

Assistant State Prosecutors Mary Jane Sytat, prosecution panel head, also required Telan to present his client when the hearing resumes on February 21.

Aside from Lapeña, former Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) Deputy Director for Administration Ismael Fajardo, former deputy customs commissioner for intelligence Ricardo Quinto and dismissed Senior Supt. Eduardo P. Acierto also failed to attend the hearing and file their counteraffidavits to the complaint consolidated with the one initiated by the PDEA. In a letter requesting for a preliminary investigation last month, the NBI named more than three dozen individuals

allegedly involved in the shipment of drugs through magnetic lifters.

Investigators said District Collector Vener Baquiran was also remiss with his duty to prevent smuggling when he did not declare the two magnetic lifters abandoned within the period prescribed by law.

The NBI recommended dereliction of duty, violation of graft laws and grave misconduct charges against Lapeña, among others.

Aside from Sytat, other members of the DOJ panel are Prosecutors Giono Paolo S. Santiago, Jervis A. Gaspar and prosecution lawyers Jayvee Laurence B. Bandong and Mary Grace S. Arboladura. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

Measles, complications kill 70 nationwide in a month –DOH

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer AS THE Department of Health (DOH) declared a measles outbreak in several areas in Luzon and Visayas, it then reported that at least 70 already died because of the disease and its complications in just a month.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III told reporters on Monday, February 11 that a total of 4,302 cases of measles were recorded by the DOH Epidemiology Bureau from January 1 to February 9 this year.

There was an increase of 2,467 when comparing this data to the same span last year, which was only at 1,935. While, the deaths due to measles recorded last year was only at 18 nationwide, when for this year’s report, that is the figure for the deaths in Metro Manila only.

In DOH’s latest report, Metro Manila is the area with the highest cases at 1,296. This is followed by the CALABARZON (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal, and Quezon) region with 1,086 cases and 25 deaths.

Central Luzon had 481 cases and three deaths, Western Visayas with 212 cases and four deaths, and Northern Mindanao at 189 cases and two deaths.

The Dengvaxia mess is one of the reasons that Duque is pointing to as to why the measles outbreak worsened because parents hesitated and refused to have their children vaccinated.

A few days ago, Duque in a press conference said that the DOH is expanding the outbreak from Metro Manila to other areas in the country.

“We are expanding the outbreak from Metro Manila to the other regions as cases have increased in the past weeks and to strengthen the surveillance of new cases and alert mothers and caregivers to be more vigilant,” the DOH chief had said on February 7.

Duque then added that as of January 26, 2019, their department saw an “increasing trend” in the number of measles cases in Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, CALABARZON, MIMAROPA (Mindoro, Marinduque, Romblon, Palawan), and Bicol region. ■

12

Philippine News

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Hontiveros slams Sara Duterte-Carpio after daring the solon to resign

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer OPPOSITION SENATOR Risa Hontiveros on Tuesday, February 12, fired back at Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio after the latter dared her to resign from her post instead of Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) chief Persida Acosta.

Responding to the latest criticism against her, Hontiveros expressed gratitude to the mayor for “taking the trouble” to share her views about the senator’s work on democracy and human rights.

“Every time she attacks me, she validates my work and vindicates my positions on important issues,” the lawmaker said.

Following the spike in measles cases in some part of the country, Hontiveros earlier called on Acosta to step down for her “lies and hysterics” on Dengvaxia issue which “contributed directly to the erosion

of public trust” in the government’s vaccination programs.

Duterte-Carpio, however, came to the defense of Acosta, saying that the lawmaker should be the one to resign because she ‘cannot say anything right’ through an Instagram post.

“PAO Chief Acosta is doing her job in assisting indigent litigants who want to sue,” she told Hontiveros, adding that it is not Acosta who “eroded” the parents’ confidence in vaccines but it is the Denngvaxia itself.

“Devangxia (sic) killed innocent individuals, bakit wala ka[ng] human rights angle dito (Why you do not have a human rights angle here)?” DuterteCarpio asked.

Hontiveros then added “Every insult from the Mayor is a reading on the barometer I can use, second to none, to confirm how effective my office is in advancing democratic interests and goals. Sa bawat banat niya, nalalaman natin na tama ang ating ginagawa (In each of her

criticisms, we get to know that what we are doing is right).”

Duterte-Carpio, in her tirade on Monday, said making Acosta resign from her post won’t solve the measles outbreak in the country. She then urged Hontiveros to think of a better solution to the problem instead of just voicing her opposition.

The senator, however, said urging Acosta to resign is part of her solution.

“Acosta’s resignation would remove the pseudo-science, fear-mongering and lies that hijacked the Dengvaxia discourse. It would help ensure an impartial investigation of the issue, end speculations that the matter is being politicized and prevent further panic and fear from being inflicted on the public,” she stressed.

Hontiveros said she was saddened that the mayor called for resignation instead of those people who are “real dangers” to the nation and society.

As for the solutions, she said,

Sen. Risa Hontiveros.

one just have to look at her legislative track record.

“From the Mental Health Law, the Expanded Maternity Leave Law, the Strengthened Anti-hospital Deposit Law, the Safe Streets and Public Spaces Act, the Philippine HIV and AIDS Policy law, the First 1000 Days Law up to the Positive Discipline Act, we have done the hard work,” she said.

“We have delivered. We do this even as we continue to add our voice of dissent to hold this

SEN. RISA HONTIVEROS / FACEBOOK

government to account and defend democracy,” she continued.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III earlier blamed the PAO chief’s “baseless” claims and accusations against the Department of Health (DOH) for the decline in vaccine confidence and rise in measles cases and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Acosta, however, said it was “unfair” for PAO to be blamed for the problem. ■

Palace to Joma: Extend hands Chinese woman for peace, rejoin society indicted for assault over ‘taho’ incident

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency

MANILA — Exiled Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP) founder Jose Maria “Joma” Sison should extend his hands for peace and rejoin society, Malacañang said on Sunday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made his call after Sison slammed the offer of President Rodrigo R. Duterte to reopen peace talks, describing it as an “insult to the revolutionary movement.”

“Instead of welcoming the President’s softening of his hardline stance on no peace talks with the local communists unless it puts a stop to their collection of revolutionary taxes which is a euphemism for extortion, he considers it as an insult to them,” Panelo said in a statement.

“Sison must step down from his ivory tower and extend his hands for peace, for his own

sake, for his followers, for the Filipino people, for his country he loves so well,” he added.

Panelo said Sison should also contribute his intellect and expertise in peaceful dialogues for the betterment and progress of all Filipinos.

“It is time to rejoin society.

There is nothing dishonorable in accepting defeat. There is another path for change other than armed struggle. Filipinos cannot continue killing Filipinos,” Panelo said.

He noted that it would be “tragic” and “such a waste” for Sison to reject the President’s willingness to resume peace negotiations for disagreeing with the precondition to stop the collection of revolutionary taxes.

“To miss this golden opportunity will only reduce him to a historical footnote and thrown him into the dustbin of history.

That will be tragic and such a waste,” he added.

Panelo mocked Sison’s reason for refusing to stop the col-

lection of revolutionary taxes saying he must be “running berserk with his imagination.”

“He (Sison) claims that they cannot stop the extortion activities because its stoppage will deprive the ‘people’s government of financial resources for administration and social programs.’ Oh… they have a government?” Panelo said.

“He has to wake up from his daydreaming lest he gets a nightmare that will cut short his bourgeoisie lifestyle in The Netherlands,” he added.

Panelo, meanwhile, described Sison and a handful of his followers as “victims of their own revolution” for still hoping to overthrow the existing political order but failing to do so for over 50 years.

In 2017, Duterte terminated peace talks with communist rebels following continued attacks against government troops.

The United States and European Union have declared the CPP-NPA as a terror group. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

BY BENJAMIN PULTA Philippine News Agency MANILA — A Mandaluyong City fiscal on Tuesday found probable cause to file criminal charges against Chinese national Zhang Jiale for splashing “taho” (soy pudding) at a police officer during a heated confrontation at a Metro Rail Transit (MRT) 3 station.

In a resolution, City Senior Assistant Prosecutor Leynard Dumlao ruled the circumstances suggest probable cause to charge her with direct assault against a person in authority.

The law on the offense requires that “the assault and force must be serious in character as to indicate respondent’s determination to defy the law and its representative at all hazards.”

Dumlao said the throwing of

the cup of “taho” on complainant Police Officer William Cristobal, who was in uniform, is considered “deliberate and serious” disobedience to a police officer performing his duties.

“It is offensive both by legal and moral norm, considering that there was no provocation on the part of the police officers. Simply put, respondent’s unwarranted act is an abrasive affront against an officer in uniform resenting a national institution,” he explained.

The MRT management has been implementing a no-liquid policy inside the station and train as part of security measures being implemented by the authorities.

Instead of complying, Zhang argued with authorities and threw the “taho” at Cristobal, who approached her and tried to explain the policy to her. ■

Philippine News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

13

We don’t need NPA, we’re distributing lands: Duterte

BY AZER PARROCHA Philippine News Agency

killing),” he said.

The President described the collection of revolutionary taxes as a form of extortion.

MANILA — It is unnecessary “Tapos mag-dream ka na kaito join the communist struggle langan ka mag-extort kasi ‘yung because the government is will- inyong gobyerno kailangan ing to distribute lands, Presi- mabuhay. ‘Yun ang statement ni dent Rodrigo R. Duterte said on Sison. Anong gobyerno? Kailan Monday. ka ba nagkaroon ng gobyerno?

He made this remark in his (And then you dream that you speech before more than 700 need to extort money because beneficiaries during the cer- your government needs to be emonial distribution of Certifi- funded. That’s Sison’s statecates of Land Ownership Award ment. What government?

(CLOAs) in Buluan, Mindanao. When did you ever have your “Up to now, I have about own government?)” he added.

60,000 hectares Last week, already nung naDuterte offered Presidente ako to reopen peace (when I became talks but Sison President). Hinshut it down and di na natin kaidescribed it as Sison langan ang NPA an “insult to the must step (We no longer revolutionary down from need the New movement.” his ivory People’s Army).

Presidential tower and What for?”

Spokesperson extend Duterte said in Salvador Panelo his hands his speech. advised Sison to for peace, “‘Yan man ang instead rejoin for his mga kampanya society and conown sake, nila — ibigay nila tribute his intelfor his ang lupa sa tao. lect and experfollowers, Kaya ko mang tise to peaceful for the ibigay ‘yan. Ibdialogues for the Filipino inibigay ko na betterment of all people, for nga (Their camFilipinos. his country paign is to give “Sison must he loves land to the peostep down from so well. ple. I can give his ivory tower them that. I have and extend his actually already hands for peace, given land),” he for his own sake, added. for his followers, Duterte also slammed Com- for the Filipino people, for his munist Party of the Philippines country he loves so well,” Pan(CPP) founding chairman Jose elo said.

Maria “Joma” Sison for justify“It is time to rejoin society. ing the communist rebels’ col- There is nothing dishonorable lection of revolutionary taxes in accepting defeat. There is for what the exiled revolution- another path for change other ary leader calls the “people’s than armed struggle. Filipinos government.” cannot continue killing Filipi“Ano bang hindi namin nos,” he added. maibigay? Fifty-three years kayIn 2017, Duterte terminated ong nakipaglabanan sa gobyer- peace talks with the communo, ni hindi kayo makahawak nist rebels following continued ng isang barangay. Tapos gusto attacks against government niyo patayan lang palagi (What troops and their insistence to can’t we give? You’ve been fight- collect revolutionary taxes. ing against the government The CPP-NPA has been for 53 years and you can’t even tagged as a terror group by the conquer one barangay. Then United States and the Europeyou just want to perpetrate the an Union. ■

Budget Secretary Benjamin Diokno.

DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND MANAGEMENT / FACEBOOK

House to continue questioning Diokno over alleged insertions in 2019 nat’l budget

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer EVEN AFTER the Congress ratified on Friday night the bicameral conference committee report on the proposed P3.757trillion 2019 national budget, the House of Representatives won’t let Department of Budget and Management (DBM) Secretary Benjamin Diokno off the hook.

“If the good Secretary thinks he can now relax and continue with his illicit activities, he is gravely mistaken. Hindi pa tapos ang pag-iimbistiga namin sa mga anomalyang kinasasangkutan niya (We are not yet done investigating the anomalies he is involved in),” House Appropriations Committee chair Rolando Andaya, Jr. said on Saturday, February 9.

Andaya has accused Diokno of inserting some P75-billion in the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for this year, and that the latter was involved in the alleged anomalous transactions of Bulacan-based CT Leoncio www.canadianinquirer.net

Construction and Trading in Sorsogon.

The Budget Chief, however, denied the lawmaker’s accusations against him.

Andaya said the House Committees on Appropriations and Public Accounts will conduct joint public hearings on the supposed irregularities in the DBM. “Congress will continue exercising its oversight function to ensure that public funds allocated to government programs and projects are spent in accordance with the law and the existing rules,” the lawmaker stressed.

He added that the lower chamber will issue a subpoena for DBM and DPWH’s top officials in the next few weeks.

On Friday, Andaya made a fresh allegation against Diokno, saying that the Cabinet official has tried to “bribe” lawmakers for them to keep their mouth shut about the alleged insertions in the 2019 budget. He said they were offered P40billion, which Diokno told the lawmaker, will come from the savings in the 2018 budget.

“That is the reason why I’m asking for documents on the 2018 savings because that piqued my curiosity,” he said.

Addressing Diokno, Andaya said, “If you can offer to buy us out, to bribe us for our silence, and as to the amount, I’m only saying half the truth — there’s a bigger amount involved.”

Diokno, however, denied Andaya’s “wild and baseless” accusations, saying that he would not “bother” to submit the 2017 and 2018 savings for the House’s review if he indeed wanted to silence the lawmakers.

The Budget Chief did not show up during the hearing on Friday despite being issued a subpoena.

In explaining his reason, Diokno cited Section 8 (3) of the Rules of Procedure Governing Inquiries in Aid of Legislation of the House of the Representatives, which states that “subpoena shall be served to a witness at least three days before a scheduled hearing in order to give the witness every opportunity to prepare for the hearing and to employ counsel, should the witness desire.” ■

14

Canada News Trudeau cabinet minister resigns amid controversy

BY DIRK MEISSNER The Canadian Press TORONTO — Canada’s former justice minister announced Tuesday that she was quitting Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Cabinet — a move that follows allegations Trudeau’s office pressured her to avoid prosecuting a major Canadian engineering firm.

Veterans Affairs Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould released a letter announcing her resignation but gave no reasons. She had been demoted from the post of justice minister last month.

The Globe and Mail newspaper reported last week that Trudeau or his staff pressured her to arrange a deal with Montreal-based SNC-Lavalin that would let it avoid criminal prosecution on allegations of corruption involving government contracts in Libya.

Trudeau said he was “puzzled” and “surprised and disappointed” by her decision.

“Allow me to very clear. Our government did its job properly and according to all the rules,” Trudeau said.

The prime minister said Wilson-Raybould never came to him in the fall with concerns the government was not acting properly. “It was her responsibility to come directly to me and highlight that,” he said.

“To be honest I don’t entirely understand Jody Wilson-Raybould made the decision she did,” he added.

Wilson-Raybould said she has hired a former Supreme

Alberta UCP leader pushing minimum wage reductions for youth, alcohol servers

BY DEAN BENNETT The Canadian Press

Jody Wilson-Raybould.

Court justice to advise her on what she can say publicly about the matter.

Her resignation is a potential blow to Trudeau as he faces re-election this year. He has denied directing Wilson-Raybould to arrange such a deal.

On Monday, Trudeau said he had toldWilson-Raybould previously that any decision on the subject was hers alone.

Trudeau also said her continued presence in the Cabinet should speak for itself.

But later Monday night she told him she was quitting the Cabinet.

“Regardless of background, geography, or party affiliation, we must stand together for the values that Canada is built on,” Wilson-Raybould said in her resignation letter.

The Globe and Mail’s report said Trudeau’s office pressured

@PUGLAA/TWITTER

her to instruct the director of public prosecutions — as allowed by law — to negotiate a remediation agreement with SNC-Lavalin.

The agreement would have allowed the company to pay reparations but avoid a criminal trial on charges of corruption and bribery.

If convicted criminally, the company would be banned from receiving any federal government business for a decade. SNC-Lavalin is a major employer in Quebec with about 3,400 employees in the province, 9,000 employees in Canada and more than 50,000 worldwide.

The company released a public letter to Canadians last October complaining it had not been offered a remediation ❱❱ PAGE 19 Trudeau cabinet

www.canadianinquirer.net

EDMONTON — Alberta’s Opposition leader says if his party wins power it will seriously consider reducing the minimum wage for youth and alcohol servers.

Jason Kenney of the United Conservative Party says that would help struggling eateries keep their doors open while allowing them to hire more people.

He says servers have told him that they would rather have the extra hours, given they can make far more in tips — about $30 an hour or more.

“I always talk to the servers (when dining out). And every single one I’ve talked to in the past two-plus years across this province says they would rather have extra hours than an extra buck-fifty as a base wage,” Kenney said Tuesday.

He made the comments in a speech to restaurant owners at an Edmonton event put on by the industry advocacy group Restaurants Canada.

Restaurants Canada says a sluggish economy, regulatory changes and a high minimum wage brought in by the NDP government have erased profit margins in what is already a razor-thin industry.

Premier Rachel Notley’s government increased the mini-

mum wage to $15 an hour across the board. Alcohol servers used to make a dollar an hour less than the minimum wage on the assumption they would get it back in tips. That disparity was eliminated under the NDP. Kenney has not committed to putting a graduated minimum wage into his platform, but has said the party doesn’t plan to raise minimum pay.

He said Tuesday he sees a lot of merit in a graduated approach, given that different age ranges have different needs and the goal for everyone is a thriving industry with lots of jobs.

“A 15-year-old does not have the same income requirements as a single mom who is 25,” said Kenney.

“How about we have a government that says it is going to be focused on getting these young people back to work through the industry most likely to hire them by allowing you to do so with a youth employment wage. I think that makes a lot of sense.”

Kenney also said his changes to liquor laws could be broadened to allow people to carry drinks beyond restaurant patios and festival beer gardens.

Minimum wage looks to be shaping up as a defining wedge issue in the upcoming provincial election, which by law can ❱❱ PAGE 20 Alberta UCP

Canada News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

15

Single tax form in Quebec a no go for federal Liberals, Trudeau says

BY MIA RABSON The Canadian Press OTTAWA — Prime Minister Justin Trudeau threw cold water on any idea his government would give in to the demand for a single tax form in Quebec.

Quebec Premier Francois Legault wants Ottawa to agree to amend the duplicate systems to collect federal and provincial incomes taxes in his province to instead create a single tax form for residents, administered by the provincial government.

The issue has become a possible ballot-box question for Quebec voters in the fall federal election, with Conservative leader Andrew Scheer promising to make it a priority to develop such an agreement if his party wins.

“Conservatives favour simplifying life for taxpayers and for tax filing,” Pat Kelly, the party’s national revenue critic,

said Tuesday.

The Conservatives introduced a motion Tuesday morning calling on the House of Commons to unanimously endorse the idea, which the Liberals immediately rejected.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Ottawa has a responsibility to collect taxes everywhere in Canada.

“Listen, we are always ready to work to simplify the lives of Quebecers and all Canadians, but we are not aligned with the Quebec government on the idea of a single provincial form,” he said in French before meeting with his cabinet on Parliament Hill.

Quebec is the only province in Canada where personal income taxes are collected separately by Ottawa and the provincial government. In every other province all personal income taxes are submitted to Ottawa and then the provincial portion sent back to the appro-

priate provincial government.

Legault’s proposal is slightly different in that he wants the province to collect all taxes and then send Ottawa its portion.

Quebec claims the savings from unifying the process in that province would be as much as $600 million.

The federal Liberals argue that implementing the idea would put in peril the jobs of hundreds, if not thousands, of Quebec-based Canada Revenue Agency workers.

“We recognize that it is jobs that Mr. Legault’s and Mr. Scheer’s statements put in jeopardy,” Trudeau said.

Ottawa announced Monday the construction of a new building for the tax centre in Shawinigan, Que., where 1,500 people are employed.

Transport Minister Marc Garneau also said unifying the tax returns is more complicated than people might think.

“First is the issue of tax eva-

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.

sion and secondly, the fact that we have different definitions of income,” said Garneau, a Quebec MP. “So with nine provinces, the income is the same, but in Quebec it’s different.”

In Quebec, the issue crosses party lines: Last May, the National Assembly passed a unanimous motion in favour of a single tax form.

However, it is a different story federally. On Tuesday,

@JUSTINPJTRUDEAU / INSTAGRAM

Trudeau went as far as to accuse the Conservatives of pandering for votes in Quebec, noting the only question the Conservatives asked about it was in French.

“I will always stand up to defend the interests of Quebecers and indeed all Canadians,” he said. “But I will also stand up for what’s good for Canadians and stand against pandering to the provinces.” ■

Paul Dewar, former NDP foreign affairs critic, dies of cancer at 56

BY LEE BERTHIAUME The Canadian Press OTTAWA — Paul Dewar, a teacher and union leader from Ottawa who became the New Democratic Party’s foreign affairs critic, died Wednesday after contending with brain cancer for a year.

Despite struggling with dyslexia as a child, getting trounced

by Ed Broadbent during his initial foray into politics, losing his seat in the House of Commons in the Liberal wave of 2015 and being diagnosed with a terminal illness, the 56-year-old was infused with a positive, hopeful attitude and belief that the world could be made a better place.

So it was startling when Dewar revealed in June 2018 that, as he was recovering from brain surgery several months before, he saw news of the high school shooting in Parkland, Fla., that killed 17 people — and that he “abandoned any hope” and was ready to give up.

Except giving up was never

really in Dewar’s vocabulary.

Inspired as Parkland students channelled their loss and pain into a rallying cry against gun violence in the U.S., Dewar decided to launch a new initiative to try to empower a new generation of leaders who would work for the greater good.

In a farewell message posted to Facebook after his death, Dewar wrote that “true change can only come when power is transferred to young people unburdened by cynicism” — which is why he used what little energy he had left to create Youth Action Now. “Hopefully, it will help unleash the power of the young people in our community to make a real difference. I hope you will be inspired to be a part of that project and continue my work,” Dewar wrote.

He urged Canadians and his former constituents in Ottawa to respect the earth, to build a future rooted in Indigenous wisdom, to welcome people who need safe homes and to help people who have been left behind.

“Let’s make more art. Let’s

play more. Let’s embrace each other in these days of cynicism and doubt,” the message said.

Dewar is survived by his wife Julia Sneyd and their two sons, Nathaniel and Jordan. A statement from the NDP said they were with him when he died at home.

Dewar is perhaps best known for having served as the MP for Ottawa Centre from 2006 to 2015, much of which he also spent as the NDP’s foreign affairs critic, following an early career as an elementary school teacher and union executive.

Whether it was the war in Afghanistan, free-trade deals or the defence of human rights and democracy in developing countries, Dewar was fierce in his convictions but also willing to listen to differing viewpoints to try to find a consensus.

That combination of principle and pragmatism, combined with the aforementioned optimism, earned Dewar respect on both the government and opposition benches, and helped the NDP shed some of its image of being idealistic and naive on www.canadianinquirer.net

Canada’s dealings with the rest of the world.

Dewar’s path into politics meant following in some pretty big footsteps. His mother, Marion Dewar, was not only one of Ottawa’s most beloved mayors but also a heavyweight in the federal NDP and social-activist circles in the 1970s and ‘80s.

Dewar would often say that he learned about politics from his mother, telling the Ottawa Citizen in September 2011 that while Marion warned against running for office just to get power, “power isn’t a bad thing, it’s how people use it.”

Then there was Broadbent, the legendary former NDP leader whose short-lived political comeback started by trouncing Dewar during the latter’s first nomination battle in 2004. Dewar had been campaigning for the nomination when Broadbent decided he wanted back in.

It was only after Broadbent’s difficult decision two years later to leave politics once again to care for his sick wife that Dewar was elected to replace the for-

mer leader as the MP for Ottawa Centre.

Yet it didn’t take long for Dewar to come into his own and make his mark with a respectful and pragmatic approach to politics — and his determination to fight injustice and cynicism at home and abroad.

Former political opponents praised him Wednesday, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau saying in a statement that Ottawa had “lost one of its most dedicated voices.

“Paul Dewar brought people together, stood up for the most vulnerable, and touched lives in Canada and beyond. He showed us what stewardship looks like, and earned the love of his community and the respect of so many of us. He will be sorely missed,” said Trudeau.

Liberal Richard Mahoney, who lost to Dewar in Ottawa Centre in 2006, wrote on Twitter that “Paul faced his illness the same way he lived his life — with grace, courage and love.”

Former Conservative cabi❱❱ PAGE 18 Paul Dewar

Canada News

16

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Hackers targeting Canadian banks, mining companies, expert tells MPs

BY JIM BRONSKILL The Canadian Press OTTAWA — Foreign hackers have targeted Canadian banks, mining companies and government institutions in recent years to steal valuable secrets and spread malware, a leading cybersecurity analyst warns.

In February 2017, multiple major Canadian financial institutions were exposed to the risk of state-sponsored cybertheft from North Korea in a scheme to redirect people to malicious downloads that would seize control of their computer, says Christopher Porter, chief intelligence strategist at California-based security firm FireEye. A number of Canadian financial organizations appeared prominently on the ultimate target list, he told the House of Commons committee on public safety and national security.

At least a half-dozen organized-crime groups conduct financial crime operations targeting companies and people in Canada

with a sophistication once seen only among nation-states, Porter said Wednesday.

FireEye routinely uncovers major underground sites selling thousands of stolen Canadian credit cards at a time, sometimes from major banks, but also targeting customer accounts at smaller banks and credit unions, he added.

FireEye, which works with Canadian military and public-safety institutions, says Canada is often one of the first nations targeted for new types of cyberoperations due to its financial wealth, high-tech development and membership in NATO. One group in particular, which the firm calls FIN10, has focused specifically on Canada since 2013, carrying out numerous intrusion operations against gambling and mining organizations, pilfering business data and extorting victims, Porter said.

“The cyberespionage threat to Canada is moderate, but could be on the rise,” he said. “We have observed 10 separate espionage groups from China, Russia and Iran targeting Canada in recent years.”

Organizations in the government, de-

Contact us for funded skills training and employment at 604.590.4021

CAREER PATHS for

Skilled Immigrants

More info on eligibility @ issbc.org /careerpaths careerpaths@issbc.org

This project is made possible through funding from the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia

fence, high-tech, non-profit, transportation, energy, telecommunications, education, and media sectors, among others, have all been affected — much like they have in many Western countries, he said.

The Canadian Centre for Cyber Security warned in its recent annual report that the biggest online threat Canadians face is cybercrime including theft, fraud and extortion.

It also said foreign countries are very likely to try to advance their agendas in 2019 — a general election year — by manipulating Canadian opinion with malicious online activity.

Porter told MPs it is important to pro-

vide people running for office with cyberthreat intelligence to ensure they are aware of possible risks.

However, such efforts to twist public opinion or compromise candidates are not limited to the cybersphere.

The National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians said this week it would examine the threat to national security from foreign interference and the measures in place to counter it.

“Canada, like most other western democracies, is vulnerable to foreign actors seeking to illegitimately influence or interfere in our political and economic processes,” the committee said. ■

Alberta contributes $3.3M for huge solar farm in remote Fort Chipewyan THE CANADIAN PRESS EDMONTON — Alberta will work with Indigenous groups in the province’s remote northeast corner on what the government says will be Canada’s largest off-the-grid solar power project.

The plan is for 7,500 solar panels to be erected at the power plant near the airport at Fort Chipewyan.

It’s expected the solar farm will be operating by next year and replace the equivalent of 800,000 litres of diesel fuel — about 25 per cent of the community’s energy use.

Alberta is contributing $3.3 million for the project with local Metis and the Athabasca Chipewyan and Mikisew Cree First Nations.

Fort Chipewyan is not connected to Alberta’s electricity grid and must burn diesel fuel for heat and power.

The project’s size and storage capacity is required because of the lack of sun-

www.canadianinquirer.net

light in the winter at that latitude.

Sunlight in the region swings from about six useful hours a day in winter to 18 hours in the summer.

The battery capacity will allow excess energy to be stored for use at night and in winter periods.

The total cost of the project is $7.8 million.

“In addition to reducing costs, this project helps make life better for residents by reducing pollution and increasing safety,” Indigenous Relations Minister Richard Feehan said Thursday.

The project is expected to make roads safer by reducing tanker-truck traffic.

Athabasca Chipewyan Chief Allan Adam said his First Nation wants to be part of the solution to climate change.

“While our regional economy depends on the oil industry, we feel the effects of climate change in our community and see the growing impacts on our delta lands,” he said. ■

Canada News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

17

Venezuelan democracy activists criticize Canadian unions over Maduro stance

BY MIKE BLANCHFIELD The Canadian Press

California Governor Gavin Newsom.

GAVIN NEWSOM / FACEBOOK

B.C. Lawyers from the Philippines meet the Attorney General PHILIPPINE CANADIAN INQUIRER

yers in attendance. Everyone later gathered at a roundtable where the AG reiterated the BC government’s commitment to VANCOUVER, BC – Lawyers ensure a diverse judiciary that born in the Philippines li- is reflective of the society. He censed to practice in British articulated that a justice sysColumbia attended a reception tem is only able to garner confito meet, greet and speak with dence if the bench is representhe Honourable David Eby, the tative of the public, adding that Attorney General of British Co- Filipinos have important vallumbia held at the University ues and perspectives to bring to Women Club’s Hycroft Manor the table. on January 25.

Ms. Mereigh Attending the and Mr. Harder event with the likewise offered AG were Ms. their assistance Margaret MerHe articulated to help these eigh, President that a justice Philippine-born of the Canadian system is only lawyers raise Bar Association able to garner their profile in of British Coconfidence if the legal comlumbia (CBABC) the bench is munity. and Mr. Derrick representative The reception Harder, the AG’s of the public, was the brainSenior Ministeadding that child of the planrial Aide.

Filipinos have ning committee “Minister Eby important composed of sefound out that values and nior lawyers Jeathere are presperspectives nette M. Oostently no Filipino to bring to the lander, Mylene judges in any table. de Guzman and court in British Claudia Poon.

Columbia. Being The lawyers, the head of the many of whom legal profession were meeting in BC, Minister Eby came to each other for the first time, discuss how to improve repre- were very enthusiastic about sentation of Filipino Lawyers plans to hold other events in in judicial and justice system- the months to come, including related appointments,” said workshops and meetings with Ms. Jeanette M. Oostlander, the Senior Members of the Legal first Philippine born woman Profession with the goal of delawyer in BC. veloping B.C. Judges who imThe evening started with the migrated to Canada from the AG meeting each of the 20 law- Philippines. ■

OTTAWA — Two major Canadian unions’ support for Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro is rooted in ignorance of the country’s struggle for freedom and the plight of its downtrodden and abused workers, Venezuelan pro-democracy activists say.

Major Canadian unions, including the Canadian Union of Public Employees and the Canadian Labour Congress, have criticized the Liberal government for backing Venezuela’s opposition leader Juan Guaido, the head of Venezuela’s legislature, as the legitimate interim leader of the country.

Canada and Latin American allies in the Lima Group, along with the United States, have been pushing Maduro, Venezuela’s socialist president, to step down. On Monday European countries including Spain, Germany, France, Britain, Sweden, Denmark, Austria, the Netherlands and Lithuania added their voices calling for free and fair elections as soon as possible.

They are supporting Venezuelan people who have taken to the streets in mass protests, blaming Maduro for keeping power through a rigged election and perpetuating the crisis that has wrecked Venezuela’s formerly oil-rich economy and forced three million of its citizens to flee their homes.

In a statement, CUPE supported the Maduro government and called the Liberals’ support of the opposition akin to aligning Canada with an American plan to engineer “a coup d’etat.”

CUPE declined further comment on Tuesday.

The CLC said it is “alarmed at the escalation of international interference in the democratic process of a sovereign nation, including the possibility of military intervention.”

Those words leave Rebecca Sarfatti angry and hurt. She’s been a pro-democracy activist for her home country since coming to Canada in 2001. www.canadianinquirer.net

“We’re talking about human beings. We’re talking about the future of a nation … It’s not about left or right, or politics,” said Sarfatti, a member of the non-profit Canada Venezuela Democracy Forum.

Sarfatti said it is “absurd” that unions that are supposed to represent the rights of workers can say, “don’t bother Maduro, let him keep being a dictator.”

“There’s people in Venezuela who are being abused, who are dying, or are being fired because they think different (from the government),” added Sarfatti.

Political scientist Angel Alvarez fled to Canada from Venezuela four years ago because, he said, he no longer had the academic freedom to teach.

The Canadian unions are undermining the international momentum that is required to force Maduro to step down and make way for peaceful elections, said Alvarez, who received his doctorate at Notre Dame University in the U.S. and was a department head at the Central University of Venezuela in Caracas.

“I think that they (the unions) are biased by ideological prejudice about previous experiences of the U.S. intervention in South America,” said Alvarez.

While he agrees the American history of intervention in Latin America has given rise to dictators and led to much bloodshed, he said the current situation is much different.

“They do not take into account the current situation in Venezuela needs strong diplomatic pressure on the government of Maduro and the military in order to find a peaceful solution.”

Hassan Yussuff, the president of the Canadian Labour Congress, said he understands how hard the crisis is for the Venezuelan people, and how important it is to find a peaceful, negotiated solution.

“I’m not approaching this from an ideological (perspective). I can’t speak for others; I’m speaking for myself,” said Yussuff, who is also the president of the Trade Union Con-

federation of the Americas, which has members in Venezuela.

“I don’t think you can separate the American history of military intervention and say this is different.”

Sarfatti said the anti-American rhetoric is an outdated view rooted in the 1960s, and that it is insulting to Canadians and Venezuelans.

“Canada has had the strongest voice and the leadership in this issue. The U.S. has joined what Canada and other South American countries are saying. It offends me when they say the U.S. is leading everything,” she said.

“It is Venezuelans’ choice. It is Venezuelans’ struggle — and fight.”

At the end of January, U.S. President Donald Trump’s national-security adviser John Bolton told reporters that no options are off the table in dealing with the situation in Venezuela. But a European diplomat who attended the closed-door talks in Ottawa on Monday said none of the discussion, especially with American participants, came anywhere near to proposing armed intervention. That included a 10-minute speech, via video link, from U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

“He made a very strong speech in support of Juan Guaido and what he’s doing, underlining the constitutional nature of what he’s doing,” said the diplomat, who spoke on the condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the talks. “If anybody is leading the process at the moment, it’s Canada and Peru.”

Ben Rowswell, Canada’s ambassador to Venezuela from 2014 to 2017, said the current crisis shows that in the 21st century true sovereignty belongs to the citizens of a country, not their state.

“By remaining silent when the Venezuelan constitution was effectively suspended in 2017 and weighing in now in support of the Maduro government, CUPE has shown it believes sovereignty rests with states.” ■

18

World News

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

California governor to rebut Trump in 1st State of State

BY KATHLEEN RONAYNE The Associated Press SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — California Gov. Gavin Newsom is preparing to deliver his first State of the State address a day after declaring he wouldn’t participate in the Trump administration’s “political theatre” over border security.

The Democratic governor is likely to ratchet up his rhetoric against President Donald Trump in Tuesday’s address, a month into Newsom’s governorship.

“We’ve been sucked into this vortex of the absurd,” Newsom told reporters Monday. “I want to get out of it — that’s what I was elected to do.”

His address will offer yet another opportunity for Newsom to outline his vision for California, a state dominated by Democrats, and contrast it with stalemates in Washington.

Newsom, 51, has sparred repeatedly with Trump and excerpts of his speech indicate he’ll rebut pieces of the State of the Union address delivered by Trump.

“Last week, we heard (Trump) stand up at the State of the Union and offer a vision of an America fundamentally at odds with California values,” the excerpts

read. “He described a country where inequality didn’t seem to be a problem, where climate change doesn’t exist, and where the greatest threat we face comes from families at the border, seeking asylum from violence-stricken countries.”

Newsom announced Monday he’ll withdraw most of California’s 360 National Guard troops working with the federal government at the Mexico border.

Former California Gov. Jerry Brown agreed to deploy troops at the Trump administration’s request last year, although he said they couldn’t participate in immigration enforcement.

Newsom, though, said there’s been a “grey area” in the troops duties that may have allowed some to inadvertently participate in immigration activities, although a Guard official said the state’s troops have not helped detain anyone.

Newsom disputed Trump’s claim there is a crisis on the border and any need for National Guard troops was eliminated when Trump chose earlier this month to add 3,750 more U.S. troops at the border.

“I don’t know what the right adjective is without coming off as hyperbolic; the whole thing is ridiculous,” Newsom said.

California Governor Gavin Newsom.

Newsom does want to leave 100 California troops working with the federal government to focus on combating transnational drug and gun smuggling.

But his speech will surely go beyond immigration to other disagreements with the White House as well as his own ambitious policy goals for the state.

He’s also fought with Trump on money for wildfire prevention efforts and the ban on transgender Americans in the U.S. military. One of his first policy announcements was to reinstate the individual mandate that people buy health

GAVIN NEWSOM / FACEBOOK

insurance, which Republicans in Congress have eliminated.

Newsom has laid out his vision for California twice already, in his inaugural address and through his first crack at the state budget. He spent his first month in office travelling to different parts of the state promoting his ideas on housing, juvenile justice and the environment.

“This is our answer to the White House: No more division, xenophobia or nativism,” the excerpts say. “We’re more united than ever, and we’re not going back.” ■

Paul Dewar... ❰❰ 15

net minister Jason Kenney tweeted that as much as they disagreed, “there was no doubt that he was a principled, dedicated public servant who cared a great deal about his country.”

Many might not realize that Dewar was dyslexic. Dewar credited the disability, which makes it harder to read, write and sometimes speak, with having made him more resilient as well as a better teacher and politician.

“I certainly identify strongly with people who are needing help in taking on things, be it with learning challenges, life challenges in general,” he told The Canadian Press in November 2011. “It’s about empathizing and understanding.”

He faced other challenges as well: Dewar placed a distant fifth when he ran to replace Jack Layton as NDP leader in 2012. Many were shocked when Liberal Catherine McKenna defeated him in 2015. He was one of several apparently popular New Democrats swept out of urban ridings that year.

The party kept him on as an adviser, helping the handful of new MPs the party elected adjust to their new duties. Afterward, he joined the board of Human Rights Watch and contemplated running for mayor of Ottawa.

Then came the diagnosis in February www.canadianinquirer.net

2018 that he had Grade 4 glioblastoma, the same type of brain cancer that killed Tragically Hip singer Gord Downie.

Dewar had gone to the hospital when he felt numbness in his arm that didn’t go away — a bother he’d at first put down to being tired from a 36-kilometre skate on the frozen Rideau Canal. That’s five full lengths of the skateway that runs not far from his downtown Ottawa home.

He soon had surgery to remove a tumour on his brain but the cancer couldn’t be cured, only held at bay for a while.

Yet even then, his optimism continued to shine. If people wanted to do something for him, he said, they should contribute to their neighbourhoods. Smile, laugh, give. “Knock on your neighbour’s door and say hi.”

“What I have discerned is that notwithstanding the urgency to live as much life as possible, I see this path I am walking as a gift to realize the beauty of life itself,” Dewar wrote in an open letter announcing his plan to launch Youth Action Now a few months later.

“Each one of us is capable of contributing something to make a difference with our family, friends and in our community. Sometimes cynicism, isolation and fear hold us back from truly contributing and participating in making the world around us a better place.” ■

World News

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

19

In Texas, Trump backs wall while O’Rourke rallies opponents

BY CHRISTINE ARMARIO AND SCOTT SMITH The Associated Press CUCUTA, COLOMBIA — Nearly three weeks after the Trump administration backed an allout effort to force out President Nicolas Maduro, the embattled socialist leader is holding strong and defying predictions of an imminent demise.

Dozens of nations have recognized opposition leader Juan Guaido’s claim to the presidency and the U.S. has tightened sanctions aimed at cutting off billions of dollars in oil revenue. But anti-Maduro street protests have come and gone, and large-scale military defections have failed to materialize.

With the U.S. seen as considering military action only as a last resort, Guaido is trying to regain momentum with an effort this week to move U.S. emergency food and medicine into Venezuela despite Maduro’s pledge to block it.

Such an operation could provoke a dangerous confrontation at the border — or fizzle out and leave Maduro even stronger.

With so much at stake, Guaido is under increasing pressure to soon unseat Maduro, analysts say.

“He is running against the clock,” said Daniel LansbergRodriguez, a Venezuela expert at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.

“Expectations are running very high — not just among Venezuelans but international allies — that this is a crisis that can be resolved quickly.”

Despite having the world’s largest oil reserves, Venezuela is suffering soaring levels of malnutrition, disease and vio-

lence after 20 years of socialist rule launched by the late President Hugo Chavez. Critics accuse Maduro, a former bus driver and Chavez’s hand-picked successor, of unfairly winning an election last year for a second six-year term by banning his popular rivals from running and jailing others.

The 35-year-old Guaido was a virtually unknown lawmaker until last month, when he took the helm of the oppositioncontrolled National Assembly.

He has rallied masses of Venezuelans into street demonstrations that have left at least 40 dead since he declared himself interim president on Jan. 23.

Guaido has so far avoided arrest, but the general comptroller announced Monday it was opening an investigation into Guaido’s assets in a new escalation of the confrontation between the government and the National Assembly.

Guaido has won backing from nearly 50 countries worldwide, including the United States, which has pledged an initial $20 million in support and has already shipped emergency food and medicine to the Colombian border city of Cucuta, where it sits in a warehouse.

Maduro has refused all economic assistance, denying there is an economic crisis in Venezuela — and contending the aid is part of a coup being orchestrated by the White House to topple him.

Maduro has made a show of overseeing military operations played on state TV almost daily.

He’s jogged with troops in formation, mounted an amphibious tank and railed against what he says is an impending U.S. invasion that he has likened to a Latin American Vietnam.

On Monday, Venezuela so-

cialist party chief, Diosdado Cabello, spoke at a rally in Venezuela’s border city of Urena, across from Cucuta, crowding the streets with Maduro loyalists wearing the red shirts of the socialist party and waving flags.

Addressing the crowd, Cabello asserted Venezuelans tell him not to give in to pressure from the United States, saying they are willing to endure whatever they must to maintain freedom from imperialist rule.

He said the U.S. supplies were sent in a showy display aimed at justifying a coup.

“It’s not help and it’s not humanitarian,” he said to cheers from roughly 1,000 Maduro supporters, including civilians and soldiers.

Romulo Jaimes, a 62-yearold resident of Urena, said the socialist gathering wasn’t what it appeared to be. He said more than 30 buses were parked outside the event, used to haul in Cabello’s cheering crowd.

“In reality it was a flop,” he said. “Most of the people from this city didn’t attend the rally.”

The U.S. humanitarian aid is being stored in a warehouse across a river from the socialist rally, a situation that also puts Maduro in a tight situation, said Eric Farnsworth of the Council of the Americas and Americas Society, a Washington-based think-tank .

“If you let it in, you’re bowing to Guaido and the international community,” he said. “If you don’t you’re seen as a tyrant.”

President Donald Trump has said all options are on the table regarding Maduro’s ouster, but Farnsworth called any U.S. military deployment highly unlikely as such a move would make the U.S. responsible for supplying food long term and rebuild-

ing the gutted country.

U.S. sanctions imposed on the state oil company PDVSA in late January and meant to pressure Maduro from office have yet to bite. In the capital, Caracas, residents pulling up to gas stations can still fill up their cars, despite fears that sanctions would create shortages.

Opposition leaders have been vague about how they plan to get the aid in.

Last week, Lester Toledo, Guaido’s representative in the aid mission, suggested it could be moved by masses of people converging on the border to carry the food and medical supplies across.

On Monday, Guaido posted a video on Twitter showing himself and his wife making phone calls urging people to join a volunteer force by registering on a website and calling on them to return to the streets in protest Tuesday.

“We’re working hard,” he said in one call. “Not only to bring in the aid, but also to end the tyranny” of Maduro.

Gaby Arellano, an opposition leader who is among those leading the aid mission, said the strategy was to conduct “defiance” politics, which she said

Associated Press writer Christine Armario reported this story in Cucuta, Colombia, and AP writer Scott Smith reported from Caracas, Venezuela. AP writers Fabiola Sanchez and Jorge Rueda in Caracas contributed to this report.

issues are able to work freely in Canada and around the world because of such settlement agreements in place in their own countries.

On Monday, Canada’s ethics commissioner announced an investigation into the allegation.

Andrew Scheer, leader of the

opposition Conservative Party, said Trudeau is trying to hide the truth and the scandal has thrown the government into “chaos.”

“Yesterday he tried to reassure Canadians that nothing unethical took place. In fact, he said that Mrs. Wilson-Raybould’s presence in Cabinet

should speak for itself,” Scheer said. “Today her resignation speaks for itself.”

Wilson-Raybould became Canada’sfirst Indigenous justice minister when Trudeau appointed her to the post in 2015.

Robert Bothwell, a professor at the University of Toronto, said her quitting is a blow to

Trudeau’s efforts for reconciliation with aboriginals.

“The symbolism of her quitting after being touted as Trudeau’s bridge to the aboriginal community and as a symbol of the place they could aspire to in Canadian society — the loss of that is dreadful,” Bothwell said. ■

Beto trying to counter-program @realdonaldtrump in his hometown and only drawing a few hundred people to Trump’s 35,000 is a really bad look. Partial pic of the Trump overflow crowd below!

@DONALDJTRUMPJR / TWITTER

consists of setting an agenda that forces Maduro’s hand, though she provided no details.

“We are politically defining the steps and they are responding to what we put forth,” Arellano said. “We want and are working for this to be as peaceful, least traumatizing and as quick as possible.”

Amaliexiz Mendoza, who lives in Cucuta with her 3-year-old daughter among the city’s large Venezuelan exile community, said she would walk a thousand times to carry humanitarian aid to her countrymen. Her grandmother, an aunt and young cousins still live in Venezuela and often go hungry, and her grandmother can’t get the blood pressure medication she needs.

“It’s not right for a child to go to bed hungry,” Mendoza said, tearing up as she spoke of Maduro’s denial that a crisis exists.

“He doesn’t lack anything but our families do.” ■

Trudeau cabinet... ❰❰ 14

agreement and noting that “innocent stakeholders continue to bear all the brunt of this uncertainty — including all 52,000 current employees who have no responsibility for any past misconduct.”

The company also said foreign companies with similar

www.canadianinquirer.net

World News

20

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

At Dubai summit, Pakistan premier warns of ‘painful’ reforms

BY JON GAMBRELL AND FAY ABUELGASIM The Associated Press DUBAI, UNITED Arab Emirates — Pakistan’s Prime Minister Imran Khan said Sunday his nation needed “painful” economic reforms to cut back on its massive debt, just after meeting the head of the International Monetary Fund, signalling the former cricketer may be willing to slash government spending for a bailout.

Khan made the comments at the World Government Summit in Dubai, which also saw Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri make his own investment pitch for his small country, now struggling through a major economic crisis as one of the world’s most-indebted nations.

Khan made a point in a sometimes-rambling address to repeatedly hit on the need for economic reforms as IMF chief

Christine Lagarde looked on from the audience.

“I repeat the reforms are painful. . It’s like a surgery.

When you conduct surgery for a while the patient suffers but that improves,” Khan said.

“The worst thing that can happen for society is that you keep postponing reforms because of the fear that you would have opposition, the vested interests stand up and you don’t do reforms.”

That Khan is in the Gulf is not surprising, as he’s gone to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for financial support.

He also repeatedly praised China in his speech, another source of funding.

Before taking the stage, Khan met with Lagarde. Pakistan has been seeking an $8 billion bailout from the IMF. Pakistan has around $100 billion in external debts and liabilities, according to the State Bank of Pakistan.

A statement from Lagarde called the meeting “good and

Pandit Mahadeva

constructive.”

“I reiterated that the IMF stands ready to support Pakistan,” Lagarde said. “I also highlighted that decisive policies and a strong package of economic reforms would enable Pakistan to restore the resilience of its economy and lay the foundations for stronger and more inclusive growth.”

The annual World Government Summit sees global leaders and sheikhs cross paths at a luxury hotel near Dubai’s iconic, sail-shaped Burj al-Arab hotel. While typically an upbeat celebration of business buzzwords and self-help talks, this year’s summit comes amid a worldwide turn toward populism and anti-elitism.

Lagarde in her public remarks at the summit didn’t hesitate to criticize Britain’s upcoming departure from the EU, known as “Brexit.” Britain is due to leave the European Union on March 29. U.K. businesses fear a possible “no-deal” Brexit with the EU will cause economic chaos by imposing tariffs, customs and other barriers between Britain and mainland Europe.

“I’m certain of one thing, is that it’s not going to be as good as if they had not been Brexit, that is for sure,” Lagarde said.

“Whether it ends well, whether there is a smooth exit given by customs unions as predicated by some, or whether it’s as a result of a brutal . exit on March 29 without extension of notice, it’s not going to be as good as it is now.”

She urged all parties to “get ready for it” as it will upend how trade is now conducted

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

with Britain.

For his part, Hariri sought to attract investment from Gulf Arab states, which long have been a major benefactor of Lebanon. His nation now faces soaring public debt of $84 billion, or 150 per cent of the gross domestic product, making it one of the most-indebted nations in the world. Lebanese unemployment is believed to be around 36 per cent.

Political paralysis has exacerbated the crisis. Lebanon formed a government last week after nine months of deadlock.

“We took the decision to bring together all the political powers because is this is the only way to save Lebanon,” Hariri said. “Today in Lebanon, we don’t have the time or the luxury of politics because our economy could completely collapse unless we surgically remove (politics) quickly, seriously and collectively.”

Gulf nations like Saudi Arabia are increasingly suspicious of

IMRAN KHAN (OFFICIAL) / FACEBOOK

Lebanon’ government because of the influence of Hezbollah, the Iranian-backed Shiite political party and militant group.

Hezbollah has three ministers in the new government.

A moderator gave Hariri a $100 bill and said he could keep it if he pitched him on investing in the country. After his pitch, Hariri returned the bill and said that he wished he had $115 to offer back.

Making a surprise visit to the summit was U.S. Energy Secretary Rick Perry, who took the stage to announce a robotics competition would be held in the United Arab Emirates later this year. Perry, a former governor of Texas who twice ran for president unsuccessfully, has tended to avoid the spotlight in President Donald Trump’s administration. ■ Associated Press writer Kathy Gannon in Islamabad contributed to this report.

Alberta UCP... ❰❰ 14

403 909 6993 W h i te field D r N E , Calga r y

be called any time but must be concluded before the end of May. Notley, speaking in Calgary, attacked Kenney’s comments.

“This ($15) minimum wage actually means a lot to these young workers,” she said.

“I have personally lost count of the number of times I had young people approach me in stores or at restaurants and tell me, just organically, how the change in the minimum wage www.canadianinquirer.net

means that they can continue their studies at school while working part time to supplement their income and make that dream of a post-secondary education affordable to them.”

Notley also said an alcohol server rate cut would disproportionately affect women.

“That is quite frankly a massive, massive loophole through which we can expect many employers to drive through at the expense of workers.”

“And, quite honestly, it should come as no surprise that roughly two- thirds of those workers who will lose out through this policy announcement made today are women.”

Alberta Party Leader Stephen Mandel, in his speech to the restaurant owners, suggested his party would leave the $15 wage in place, but would try to find other ways to help employers. ■

21

Entertainment Rap artists and women take centre stage at Grammy Awards

BY DAVID BAUDER The Associated Press LOS ANGELES — Rap artists and women have felt shunned by the Grammy Awards in recent years. But this year, they both took centre stage.

Childish Gambino’s disturbing look at race relations, “This is America,” won record and song of the year on Sunday’s telecast. It was the first time a rap-based song won both of those awards, considered — with album of the year — the recording industry’s most prestigious.

Kacey Musgraves won top album and matched Childish Gambino with four Grammys total. A year after many women felt left out of the Grammy telecast, they delivered the night’s most memorable performances. The best new artist winner, British singer Dua Lipa, also cast major shade on the outgoing recording academy president.

Lady Gaga and Brandi Carlile won three Grammys apiece, and former first lady Michelle Obama was a surprise guest at the top of the show on CBS. Childish Gambino, the stage name of actor Donald Glover, and another prominent rap nominee, Kendrick Lamar, both declined invitations to perform or attend Sunday’s show. Some rap artists feel the Grammys have been slow to recognize how the genre now dominates popular music.

Ludwig Goransson, a songwriter and producer on “This is America,” said backstage that he was surprised the victories were so historic. Just listening to the radio, watching the culture and seeing how many rap songs are downloaded is evidence of rap’s impact.

“It’s about time something like this happened with the Grammys as well,” Goransson said.

Cardi B became the first solo woman to win best rap album ,

although Lauryn Hill was the lead singer of the Fugees, which won the same award at the 1997 Grammys. Cardi B was so nervous accepting the award that she joked, “Maybe I need to start smoking weed.”

She looked anything but rattled earlier, when her rendition of “Money” was among the night’s performance highlights. Janelle Monae delivered a smoking version of her hit “Make Me Feel”; St. Vincent and Dua Lipa’s duet on “Masseduction” was steamy; H.E.R. turned heads with “Hard Place”; and Carlile sang an inspired version of her hit “The Joke.”

Being part of a big night for #LetsHearIt for the strong female representation at the 61st #GRAMMYs! These women pave the way for more diversity women was huge to her, Carlile in music. Which artists inspire you said backstage after the show. @RECORDINGACADEMY/INSTAGRAM “I’m a kid from the ‘90s and Lilith Fair, you know, and those a handful of other artists were ers. duction by a grandson with a women were just dominat- also hustled off the stage, and “You’ve already won if you mountain of hair. ing those platforms,” she said. the show seemed disjointed at have people who are singing The Grammys took some on“They were dominating those the end, rushing through its fi- your songs word for word, if line blowback by having Jenarena and amphitheatre stages. nal awards. Under the circum- you’re a hero in your home- nifer Lopez deliver a tribute to They were getting record deals. stances, having a lengthy trib- town. Look, if there are people Motown , once the nation’s preThey were becoming record ex- ute to Portnow before he gave who have regular jobs who are eminent label for black artists. ecutives themselves. They com- his own speech seemed tone- coming out in the rain and the Despite her hustle, Lopez was pletely controlled the airwaves. deaf. snow, spending their hard- outshone by show host Alicia They were on the radio. And to Lipa said later she would earned money to buy tickets to Keys and Smokey Robinson dewatch that backslide for the last have thanked her fans, her in- come to your shows, you don’t livering one verse of “Tracks of 20 years has been heartbreak- spirations and team if she had need this right here. I promise My Tears” a capella. ing. Tonight, it gives me hope as more time. you. You already won,” he said Obama appeared on the a mother of two young daughWhen she was onstage, Lipa at the Staples Center in Los An- show’s opening with Keys, ters.” was one of a handful of win- geles.

Gaga, Lopez and Jada Pinkett When she accepted her best ners who paid special tribute Musgrave picked up album Smith to describe the role munew artist award, Dua Lipa to fellow artists. Another was of the year for “Golden Hour,” sic had played in their lives — pointedly said, “I guess this Drake, whose appearance to ac- which is labeled country but seemingly a pointed reference year we really had wider ap- to last year’s controversy over stepped up.” peal. women artists.

That was a ref“I never “Music has always helped erence to outgodreamed that me tell my story,” Obama said. ing Recording You’ve already won if you have this record “Whether we like country or Academy CEO people who are singing your songs would be met rap or rock, music helps us Neil Portnow, word for word, if you’re a hero in with such love, share ourselves. It allows us to who said women such warmth, hear one another.” your hometown. needed to “step such positivity,” Another ex-White House resup” when he was said Musgraves, ident was awarded a Grammy asked about the who performed on Sunday. Former President lack of women in top categories cept the Grammy when “God’s a stately version of her song Jimmy Carter, who is 94, won in 2018. He later acknowledged Plan” won best rap song was a “Rainbow.” an award for best spoken word it was a poor choice of words surprise because he’s not big on Dolly Parton starred in the recording. and delivered another mea cul- award shows. best of the night’s two tributes It’s his second Grammy. ■ pa on Sunday’s show.

He reminded fans and fellow to veteran artists, performing a Yet Dua Lipa was reward- artists that awards are based on medley of her songs with Miley Associated Press writers Mesfin ed by having her acceptance the subjective views of others, Cyrus, Katy Perry and Maren Fekadu, Nekesa Mumbi Moody, speech cut off mid-sentence. and aren’t contests in which Morris. The highlight of Diana Jonathan Landrum and Beth She wasn’t alone, however, as there are clear winners and los- Ross’ night was the cute intro- Harris contributed to this report. www.canadianinquirer.net

22

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

10 anime that will make your heart go doki doki, ba-thump on V-Day

BY BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY Philippine Canadian Inquirer IF THERE is one day where pink and red hues are all over the place and the heart shape is everywhere, it is most likely Valentine’s Day. It is definitely the season of love, where couples, friends, and family members take advantage of the day to be more open on their love.

It cannot be denied that Valentine’s Day makes it a point to present itself as a day to pour your heart out in every little thing.

But if there is one more thing that should not be denied, it is that this day really has a romantic ring on it. While the celebration is not only for couples as love is universal, romance is thickly and heavily pink in the air during this season.

While there is nothing wrong with being single and being inactive in the romance department, sometimes it just feels great to feel your heart pound, feel your cheeks go warm, and to feel your lips curl up because of something too irresistible.

Fret not, for here is a shiny list that will make your heart flutter even without a lover or a date!

Time to feed your otaku heart this Valentine’s Day for here are ten anime that will make your heart go doki doki and bathump ba-thump.

Kamisama Hajimemashita/ Kamisama Kiss

The perfect way to forget reality even for a bit is to dive into the fantasy world of Kamisama Hajimemashita, where a homeless ordinary student named Nanami Momozono suddenly becomes a deity with a fox familiar named Tomoe.

Combining an honest and hardworking newbie goddess with a cunning high-class familiar with a dark past, what could be the gods trying to play in this set-up? All Nanami wants is a home but meeting Tomoe makes her realize that she has a bigger role to play in his life.

While Kamisama Hajimemashita involves a heavy inclusion of Japanese folklore and its own fictitious universe, this does not take away the aspect of

romantic tension and the relationship of Nanami and Tomoe.

Each episode is definitely designed to keep its audiences at the edge of their seats, but also their hearts slightly at a tilt with classic cliffhangers and mysteries in the past of its characters.

Just how will love bloom between this 17-year-old girl-turned-goddess and this 600-year-old fox?

If you want to see fluff every episode in a new world to discover, Kamisama Hajimemashita is definitely a must-watch.

Itsu Datte Bokura no Koi wa 10 Senchi Datta

Honeyworks fans who saw the series in its song form now translated into an anime are surely happy to see a deeper story and characterization rather than the assumptions based on its music video.

With characters Miou Aida and Haruki Serizawa supplied with voices in a storyline, a lot of questions are answered.

However, if you have not seen the musical origins of this series, this does not mean that you will not enjoy this short anime. Especially for people who want to enjoy and appreciate simple storylines, this anime puts your hearts at rest, but not too much that it will bore you.

The really shy and gentle girl and the extremely confident and ambitious man who are in love with each other is perhaps a basic formula for most romantic shows. But this anime strongly revolves on the theme by its title “Our love has always been 10 centimeters apart.

So close yet so far – so will it be the timid Miou who closes their distance? Or will Haruki’s ambition set them more apart?

Or will the tables turn that Haruki’s confidence to get close to her will only shatter her remaining courage?

Miou and Haruki’s romance starts and perhaps progresses slow but what brings this anime in list is that, sometimes, romance is not always about intensity – it can still also be calm.

Kaichou wa Maid-sama

The perfect boyfriend does not exist they say, but perhaps in the world of Kaichou wa Maid-sama, the existence of

Takumi Usui who (according to the manga) excels at everything, makes this an exceptional anime that is guaranteed to make your heart jump.

However, perfection could be something that is desired but when attained, it actually spells boredom when there is no more room for improvement. Luckily, Kaichou wa Maid-sama gives Usui-kun a fitting match – Misaki Ayuzawa, the female protagonist of the series.

Having interest and falling in love with their school’s student council president who is a man-hater is perhaps the turning point of Takumi’s life. This brave and strict leader by day is actually a part-time maid in a café at night, and to have him discover her secret is just the start of their crazy yet heartwarming story. These characters’ interactions will make you question how love can change a lot of things between two people and within themselves.

This anime will definitely level up your definition of perfection because once you start episode one, you will realize that these two just cannot exist without each other.

Skip Beat!

Some say that loving comes with sacrifices and giving and this is especially true for Kyoko Mogami as she has perhaps given almost everything to support her childhood friend Sho Fuwa’s dream to be a musician.

She traveled with him to Tokyo, abandoning her life as a student and a daughter in Kyoto, only to find out that when Sho started climbing the path of fame, he just wanted her to be his maid.

Shattering her heart, along with her innocence and kindness, Kyoko makes no time for crying as she fills herself with hatred and vengeance. Determined, she swears to get revenge at Sho by becoming more famous than him through the rival agency.

Skip Beat! is indeed a classic in the romance genre, and while the anime was released back in 2008, it remains to be a mustwatch. Not only does it focus on romance as a relationship between two people, but Kyoko’s deep hatred remains to be an inner obstacle that she has to face if she wants to succeed in the www.canadianinquirer.net

BEA KIRSTEIN T. MANALAYSAY / PHILIPPINE CANADIAN INQUIRER

show business industry.

By shunning the emotion of love to focus on her revenge against Sho, her path to being an idol teaches her its importance.

While Kyoko’s story is fueled by a heartbreak, what she does not know is that this new chapter in her life will bring different kinds of love that will fill her closed heart – especially when Ren Tsuruga enters this new chapter.

This series will warm your heart not only by giving you a well-paced and unique love story, but it will make you appreciate how love plays in humans’ lives.

Tsurezure Children

Love can be about doing your best your someone. Love can be in the form of protecting. But love can also mean being unable to face the truth. Indeed, love cannot be defined by one as it is something that one experiences differently from the other. And the anime short Tsurezure Children paints different pairs and their triumphs and struggles in their romantic life.

Set in a high school, the series features different couples ranging from a manipulative student council president and a delinquent-like girl (who is actually just shy), to a comedy duo who joke around and find it hard to be serious about their feelings, to an emotional girl who confesses to a stoic and dense boy, and to many more.

The colorful characters of Tsurezure Children will spell out how love is different for everyone, how couples have different paces and stages, how

awkwardness plays in relationships, and how honesty can be the real game changer.

What makes this series stand out is that despite the numerous couples, each has its own charm that will definitely suit the different tastes of its audience. It has intense couples, it has slowpaced ones, fast-paced, a bit matured, childish, and even a crazy one – take your pick.

By getting glimpses of their stories in this short series, Tsurezure Children is still a definite heart-warmer that one should not miss.

Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun

In a world where people are situated in different backgrounds and pasts, it is easy to create a little world of your own. Enter Shizuku Mizutani who only needs studying in her life and nothing else. She has no time to care about people when she can use her time to do something that she wants which is to read her books. Call it apathetic but Shizuku is determined to have studying as her life.

However, when her little world collides with Haru Yoshida, a misunderstood troublemaker, who also has his own chaotic one, hers cracks and is suddenly opened to a lot of things that are not written on her beloved books – people and relationships.

Tonari no Kaibutsu-kun is about Shizuku and Haru’s roller-coaster relationship – trying to cover the blurring line between their friendship and love.

For two people who are experiencing a lot of their firsts ❱❱ PAGE 27 10 anime

Entertainment

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

23

Filipina-American singer H.E.R. bags two wins at 2019 Grammys

BY GIANNA LLANES Philippine Canadian Inquirer

REST IN PEACE. Papa Bentong hindi ko akalain na heto na ang ating huling pagsasama naten alam ko

kasama mo na ang Panginoon ngayon kaya panatag na rin ang loob ko

ARVIN VINCENT S. ANIERDES/FACEBOOK

Netizens mourn death of Comedian ‘Bentong’

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer NETIZENS ON Saturday, February 9, are mourning the death of comedian Domingo Vusotros Brotamante, Jr., popularly known as “Bentong,” who passed away at the age of 55.

The sad news was confirmed by his son-in-law, Arvin Vincent Anierdes, in a Facebook post.

According to Arvin, the comedian died at around 5 a.m. in Fairvew General Hospital.

“Rest in Peace Papa Bentong hindi ko akalain na heto na ang ating huling pagsasama naten alam ko kasama mo na ang Panginoon ngayon kaya panatag na rin ang loob ko (I never thought that this will be the last time we would be together. I know you are with the Lord now so I feel better),” he wrote in his post.

“Maraming maraming salamat Papa sa pag-aaruga sa Pamilya naten.

Maraming salamat din dahil napakarami mo napasayang tao. Mahal na mahal ka namin Pa (Thank you so much dad for caring for our family. Thank you also for making many people happy. We love you so much, dad),” he added.

The media reported that Bentong was declared dead on arrival following a cardiac arrest.

His wake public viewing was on February 13 at St. Peter, Araneta Avenue.

Upon hearing the news, netizens took to social media to express their grief and extend their condolences to Bentong’s family. Many of them thanked the come-

dian for making their bellies hurt from laughter every time he appears on their television screen.

“Rest In peace Bentong … Not related to you and not a fan but you made us laugh many times and I would like to thank you for that,” netizen @redabelcain wrote in a tweet.

Meanwhile, social media user @alorskie posted a photo of her and Bentong and recalled her memories with him.

“Nakakalungkot. Paalam po Kuya Bentong. Isa ka sa mga kilala kong palaging nakangiti at masayahin (This is sad.

Goodbye, Bentong. You are one of the people I know who is always smiling and bubbly),” she said.

She continued, “Ang bait mo palagi sa akin lalo na nung nagsisimula pa lang ako sa trabaho. Sa heaven ka na magpapatawa ngayon (You are always good to me especially when I was still starting at work. You will make people laugh in heaven now). Rest in peace.”

Bentong has gained the public’s attention when he became the “side-kick” of television host Willie Revillame.

Prior to this, he already played roles in local films like Oo na, Mahal Na Kung Mahal in 1999, Baliktaran: Si Ace at si Daisy in 2001, and Jologs in 2002.

In 2016, Bentong revealed that he has diabetes but despite this, he said he is working hard just to send his four children to school.

“Kahit kunin na ko ni Lord, mapatapos ko lang, masaya na ako (Even if the Lord takes me, as long as I was able to send them to college, I will be happy),” he said. ■

TWENTY-ONE-YEAR-OLD FILIPINO-AMERICAN (FIl-Am) R&B singer Gabi Wilson, more popularly known as H.E.R,. brings home two victories from the 61st Annual Grammy Awards that were held at the Staples Center in Los Angeles last Sunday, February 10.

When accepting one of her golden gramophones, H.E.R. excitedly states, “So first thing I wanna say is this is unbelievable and second it’s not even an album, it’s an EP,” referring to the self-entitled compilation of her past two extended plays (EP), laughing, “I’m speechless right now, I’m holding back tears.” She also posts a photo of herself accepting the award, captioned, “Happiest day of my life! No words! The moment I shared with my family when they made the announcement was so special. Thank you to everyone who has been there since day one and to all my fans that continue to come to my shows and put people on to my music!” concluding, “Mom, Dad, Little sis, I did this for you!”

Initially, H.E.R. was nominated for five

awards, namely: album of the year, best new artist, best R&B song, best R&B album, and best R&B performance, succeeding overall in the latter two categories.

Upon first hearing about her nominations, she reacts, “It’s amazing. I don’t know how to describe the feeling. I just thought that all the hard work has paid off.”

H.E.R, whose acronym stands for ‘Having Everything Revealed,’ was born and raised in San Francisco by a Filipina mother and an African-American father.

She made her first public appearance performing an Alicia Keys song on the piano, then at the age of 12 competed on Radio Disney’s “The Next BIG Thing.”

She talks about her roots during her guesting on the Late Late Show with James Corden, sharing, “I’m half-Filipino and Filipinos love karaoke. So yeah, I love to sing, I’ve always been around music my entire life and I just gravitated towards instruments. They were at my house and my dad would rehearse with his band.”

Besides the R&B artist’s most popular hit “Best Part,” which is a collaboration with Daniel Ceasar, H.E.R. is also known for songs like “Focus,” “Losing,” and “Could’ve Been.” ■

PSYCHIC FAITH Reader, Healer and Adviser TELL PAST, PRESENT & FUTURE specializes on removing all types negative energy, bad luck and evil influences

helps in all life problems such as love life, business matters, immigration and family issues A l l i n P r i v a t e a n d C o n fi d e n t i a l Call today for a better tomorrow

99% ACCURATE

www.canadianinquirer.net

778-379-4070

OVER 30 YRS EXP

24

Entertainment

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

James Reid, Nadine Lustre spend third year anniversary in Batangas

BY GIANNA LLANES Philippine Canadian Inquirer VIVA ARTISTS James Reid and Nadine Lustre, both 25 years old, opted to celebrate their third year anniversary as a couple in a more private manner, by enjoying the nature at The Farm in San Benito, Lipa, Batangas.

The couple, also known for their love team moniker “JaDine,” has been consistently posting photos and videos on their Instagram accounts of their vacation, James sharing an image of him and his girlfriend sitting by a waterfall

captioned “Healing,” referring to the 48-hectare resort that offers spiritual healing. Nadine also shared a photo of James to her 5.8 million followers commemorating their anniversary, simply captioned with the acronym “Ilyssm,” meaning ‘I love you so, so much.” In 2018, the couple celebrated their twoyear anniversary during an intimate getaway in Siargao, then in Tokyo, Japan the year before that.

The two celebrities first admitted their relationship during their JaDine In Love concert on February 20, 2016, where they revealed that they officially got together nine days

before that event. After going public with their relationship, James told the press, “It’s just so liberating to you know, just be able to hold her hand in public, say I love you out loud.”

This was after the ending of their primetime series entitled “On the Wings of Love.” Previously, they have also starred in films “Ang Diary ng Panget,” “Talk Back and You’re Dead,” and “Para sa Hopeless Romantic” as an on-screen couple.

For her first independent project without James, Nadine will be releasing her new movie entitled “Ulan” with Carlo Aquino as her leading man. Marco Gumabao and AJ

James and Nadine.

Muhlach are part of the cast as well. James, on the other hand, will be holding a concert alongside Sam Concepcion and Billy Crawford on April 5 at the Mall

@NADINE / INSTAGRAM

of Asia Arena entitled “The #Cr3w,” where Yassi Pressman and Coleen Garcia will visit as special guests as well. ■

Liza Soberano, Enrique Gil confirm Veteran actress Armida relationship of more than two years Siguion-Reyna dies from colon failure at 88

BY GIANNA LLANES Philippine Canadian Inquirer

AFTER HINTS and indefinite confessions, Kapamilyastars Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil finally confirm their official relationship on Gandang Gabi Vice to host Vice Ganda during their guesting last Sunday, February 10.

While promoting their new film Alone/Together, the couple played a game in front of a studio audience with Vice. The host then asks them in Filipino if they are officially together, Enrique having to tell the truth and answering “Yes.” Vice then asks Liza, “Have you been together for a long time?” which she answers, “Define ‘long time.” As the host specified “two years,” Liza nods “Yes” and hints that she and her costar first got together in the month of October.

Last October 24, Liza posted a photo of Enrique with heartshaped balloons in the background captioned, “Never rush something you want to last forever. Grateful to have someone like you in my life,” many speculating that to be the date of their anniversary.

Twenty-one-year-old Liza and 26-year-old Enrique were

BY GIANNA LLANES Philippine Canadian Inquirer

Enrique and Liza.

first paired up in 2014 for primetime teleserye Forevermore, sparking speculations since then. Their film Alone/ Together, which is their movie comeback after two years, was written and directed by Antoinette Jadaone and is set to hit cinemas by February 13.

On the same day, Philippine Star writer Ricky Lo also released a “Confessions” piece with Enrique Gil, where the actor and actress elaborated

@LIZASOBERANO / INSTAGRAM

more on their relationship. “On screen and off screen, I wanna say that we are together,” Enrique states, “During our trips abroad, we enjoy all the fun things – the theme parks, the museums, whatever.” Liza adds, “We do everything that we can’t do here, and shop to our heart’s content. I’ve never gone abroad without him,” as they elaborate on their most recent trip to New York for the film. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

THE ENTERTAINMENT industry mourns the death of actress, singer, TV/film producer Armida Siguion-Reyna, who passed away due to a disease found in her colon at the age of 88 last Monday, February 11.

The news was first confirmed to ABS-CBN by Armida’s sister Irma, sharing that the artist passed away in the afternoon at the Makati Medical Center.

Later that evening, Armida’s brother Juan Ponce Enrile, former Senate President, also shared a statement to the public urging to never forget his sister for her contributions to Philippine entertainment. His statement read in Filipino, “I’m sad and we’re all sad that my sister has passed away. She got sick about two weeks ago. She got pneumonia. She was admitted to St. Luke’s in Bonifacio Global City. But, pneumonia wasn’t her only problem because they also found something wrong with her colon. They removed that, they operated it, but it already spread.”

He adds, “Despite all of this,

I’m happy that she can now have rest. She contributed immensely to the entertainment industry, and she championed the use of our own language in her songs.

I am so proud that she became famous. My only request of Filipinos – especially the youth – is that you do not forget her.”

Armida was born on November 4, 1930, to Spanish lawyer and politician Alfonso Ponce Enrile. She spent most of her childhood in Malabon and studied at the Philippine Women’s University in Manila before pursuing her acting career. In theater, she is most known for leading roles in “Lucia de Lammermoor,” “Rigoletto,” and “The Merry Widow.”

In music, she recorded Filipino tracks “Aawitan Kita,” “Armida,” and “Sa Lungot at Saya…

Aawitan Kita.” In films, she won Best Supporting Actress at the Bacolod Film Festival for her work in “Sa Pagitan ng Dalawang Langit.” But, besides being an actress, singer, and producer, Armida also worked under former President Joseph Estrada as the chairperson of the Movie and Television Review and Classification Board (MTRCB). ■

25

Lifestyle No date this Valentine’s Day? No worries, rom-com films got you covered!

BY JOANNA BELLE DEALA Philippine Canadian Inquirer IT IS that time of the year again where we all see couples spending their sweet times, holding their partners’ hand and fixing their gaze only on each other like no one else is around — yup, my dear friends, it is officially Valentine’s Day! For those in love, February 14 is probably one of the busiest days for them as they plan on how will they make that occasion extra special for their significant others. Their fingers might be busy searching on the internet and jotting down ideas like where to go, what fun things to do, or what cute gifts to buy.

But as we all know Valentine’s Day is not exclusively for those who are in a relationship.

Calling all single ladies and gentlemen who are too focused on finishing a report, pursuing their passions, and exploring their talents — this day is also for you to celebrate. Slow down from being the successful person you are for a while, have a rest in your room (since malls and restaurants are most likely bombarded with people), and open your screens. While you have not met your the one yet, why don’t you let movies first, romantic-comedy films in particular, to give you all the warm and fuzzies this Valentine’s Day? We won’t be wasting your precious time searching for what good movies to watch as we already got here several

films (from classic to modern) for you to choose from: Pretty Woman (1990)

You will never get sick of the chemistry between the unlikely pair in this movie even after repeated viewings. Edward Lewis is a wealthy businessman who hires a beautiful hooker named Vivian Ward to be his escort for some social events — but, of course, it does not remain like that for long. Pretty sure you will be surprisingly touched in a way you can never think of once you see this film.

10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

This movie is proof that you will never really know when will you become a victim of Cupid’s arrow, even if you try to avoid it. This film revolves around a popular sophomore, Bianca Stratford, who wants to date, but her father won’t allow her until her dour older sister, Katarina, dates. Things here will get a little messy yet exciting as to how will Bianca set her sister up for romance when Kat seems not to be interested with anyone.

How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days (2003)

No other words can describe this film but refreshingly funny, well-plotted, and captivating.

Andie Anderson who wants to write more substantial stories but was instead assigned to write about an article entitled “How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days.”

To do this, Andie will start dating a guy and drive him away as

10 days expire. Meanwhile, the advertising executive Benjamin “Ben” Barry, who in order to win a major campaign, cuts a deal with his colleagues that the project will be his if he can make a woman of their choice fall in love with him in 10 days.

With these two keeping their ulterior motive, you will be hyped with how Andie and Ben take the game into a whole new level just so they can succeed with their missions.

50 First Dates (2004)

50 First Dates will make you want to have someone like Henry Roth in your life. Henry accepts the challenge of being in love with someone who cannot even remember him the next day due to her short-term memory loss. But this does not stop Henry from pursuing Lucy Whitmore. But instead of losing hope, Henry keeps looking for a way every single day to make Lucy fall in love with him all over again. This film is indeed a great epitome of #relationshipgoals.

A Cinderella Story (2004)

A Cinderella Story will surely ring a bell from our childhood, especially to the girls. After her father dies, Sam Montgomery’s life is filled with trials and tribulations as she now lives with her step-mother from hell, Fiona, and her two step-sisters, Brianna and Gabriella. The story might be a bit predictable, but the way actors and actresses poured out all the feelings and emotions in the movie is just brilliant; it feels like all

www.canadianinquirer.net

the characters in the classic fairytale came to life that you can actually feel the spark between them — but with the modern day twist.

13 going on 30 (2004)

This is a story of a 13-yearold Jenna Rink who wants to make herself well-known in her school so she tries to befriend the popular “Six Chicks.” She even invited them to her birthday party but the only way she can make them attend is to do their homework. Unfortunately, her party did not end the way she wanted it to be so she took her anger out to her best friend, Matty Flamhaff, and locked herself in the closet where the dollhouse with glittery magic dust that Matty gave her can be found. Dismayed by what happened, Jenna wishes to become older and as the magical dust fell off, she, later on, finds herself into the body of a gorgeous 30-year-old executive. Not

only will this movie give you a romantic light comedy with a little touch of fantasy, but it will also leave you with powerful messages and good realizations about life.

She’s the Man (2006)

This might be another girldisguised-as-a boy film to you, but promise, you will be taken by surprise with this film. The not-so-girly Viola Hastings set up the crazy ride in this movie as she disguised herself as her twin brother, Sebastian, who ran off to London to become a musician. Taking the place of her brother, Viola becomes roommates with Duke who has a crush on the pretty and popular Olivia, who likes “Sebastian” (who is actually Viola). Everything will get even crazier with other characters joining the ride and making the plot more complicated. You will love how ❱❱ PAGE 27 No date

26

Lifestyle

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Choose Your Valentine: 10 Asianovela Men You Should Date On February 14

BY ARLNIE COLLEENE TALAIN SINGCA Philippine Canadian Inquirer FEBRUARY 14 is just around the corner which means it’s the season of love again!

It’s the time of the year where couples are probably preparing surprises for their significant others, buying flowers and chocolates, choosing the cutest teddy bear, or booking a romantic candlelight dinner at a fivestar hotel for the Valentine’s Day. Almost everybody, be it lovers or singles, are excited for the V-Day as they could use this as an excuse to date not just their beloved partners but also their friends or families.

While you – a single lady who ‘bitters’ over these couple things, sulks in her room, pondering why you don’t have a boyfriend to take you out on this famous day of romantic love.

But why? Because maybe you want a guy who is handsome that almost every girl looks at him and envies you; so rich that his house could be as big as a mall and could give you just anything you want; smart and later on gets into med school; business-minded that can either run a coffee shop or a hotel; or a bad boy who doesn’t care to get into trouble just for you.

You could still be single because you’re still waiting for a prince to fall in love with you even if you’re just a commoner, or maybe a celebrity who will be willing to marry a fan like you.

Having these high standards isn’t wrong in any way. You deserve to choose who you’ll love and who you’ll want to spend this day with.

But for now, while waiting for him to come at your doorstep, holding a bouquet of red roses and your favorite chocolates, why don’t you consider dating these Asianovela characters that will surely meet your standards?

Dao Ming Si of Meteor Garden

Rude and arrogant, but definitely a swooner. Despite having a rude attitude towards everyone, this handsome heir to the Dao Ming Group, Dao Ming Si (Asi), still managed to make

every lady fall for him. Having an attractive face and oozing charisma could already make any girl melt. What more if he shows determination to get the girl of his dreams?

Imagine having a rich guy patiently wait in the middle of the rain, just to have a date with you? It would definitely be hard for one to handle being Asi’s girlfriend, but with all the sacrifices he can do for you, why not?

Crown Prince Lee Shin of Princess Hours

Another insensitive guy here.

But, he’s a prince! It’s every girl’s (almost) dream to be a princess and to marry a prince. Although cold at first, do not worry because that’s just how our Crown Prince Lee Shin grew up. Deep inside his icy stone heart, is a warm and comforting Lee Shin.

A prince who just wants to take everything slow and enjoy the ride with you. Though called as prince, he’s just an ordinary person who wants to have an ordinary life with you.

Being in the royal family is such an honor. But Lee Shin will make you realize that inside or outside the palace, being or not being a princess, as long as you’re with him, everything will still be as perfect as your favorite fairytale.

Jiang Zhi Shu of It Started with a Kiss/They Kissed Again

Falling in love with the smartest kid at school can be a lot pressure. But with Jiang Zhi Shu, it’s not. You think you’d be intimated by his high IQ and excellent academic records, but your intelligence is not his basis to fall for you. Being yourself is more than enough for him.

Just show him how much you love and care for him, and he’ll shower you with sweet kisses.

And who would refuse living under the same roof with this genius despite his very unwelcoming remarks, when in the end he’ll be addicted to kissing you as much as you are to him?

You couldn’t just reject that.

Lee Young Jae of Full House

Ever wonder how it feels like dating a celebrity? Most girls really dream of going out with a popular star, but what more with marrying one? Lee Young

Jae could be a good choice if you want a famous boyfriend. Young Jae is one of the hottest actors of his generation, but inside your house, he’s just a playful boy who enjoys messing with you.

You might see him as immature, but isn’t it nice knowing he’s comfortable enough to show his real self to you?

It’s really sparkly marrying a superstar, but what matters the most is knowing the true person you’re being tied with, behind the flashy stage of his celebrity life.

Choi Han Kyul of Coffee Prince

Maybe you want a sexy coffee shop owner? Choi Han Kyul owns the Coffee Prince – which perfectly fits him, doesn’t it?

However, this coffee prince isn’t as much of a prince to you as he will keep bickering with you, with a hint of naughtiness and sexiness. That’s just how flirtatious Han Kyul rolls.

Having Han Kyul as your boyfriend, can you handle his love for skinship? This coffee shop owner shows his affection through touch, and who would reject intimacy with the overflowing sex appeal of Han Kyul while brewing a cup of coffee, right?

Seol Gong Chan of My Girl

Seol Gong Chan is another heir in our list. This serious looking, rich grandson of a top hotel in Korea is very hard to please. He always sports a straight face that cannot be fazed, which makes him intimidating to most girls. Gong Chan looks like the kind of person who has no emotions. But once you get to his soft side, you wouldn’t regret looking stupid with the heart-stopping smile you’ll bring out of him. It would certainly be worth it.

As Gong Chan’s girlfriend, the only challenge is to make him smile and laugh – which wouldn’t be hard at all once he’s fallen for you. Imagine being the source of the unusual, heart-melting smile of our hotel heir.

Jiang Meng of Devil Beside You

Here’s the bad boy you’ve been waiting for. The guy who would not just brave a fistwww.canadianinquirer.net

GRAPHIC BY ARLNIE COLLEENE TALAIN SINGCA: @LEEDONGWOOK_OFFICIAL/INSTAGRAM, @ RAIN_OPPA/INSTAGRAM, 賀軍翔/FACEBOOK, @_ASIA_PRINCE_JKS/INSTAGRAM, @JOSEPH820619/ INSTAGRAM

fight to save you, but also be troublesome just to annoy you – or make you notice him. Jiang Meng (Ahmon) will use every prank he knows just to get into your nerves, until you start being fond of him. And soon, you’ll realize you’re already into this guy despite his unpleasant behavioral background.

This guy isn’t just about pranks and fist-fights though as Ahmon expresses his feelings through art as well. Wouldn’t it be nice to be his muse?

Zuo Yi Qian of Hana Kimi

Now who wants an athlete?

Zuo Yi Qian should be the guy for you, who makes every girl’s heart jump with his running and sexy form when he jumps over the horizontal bar. With his muscly built and striking face, it’s impossible not to crush over this high jumper at all. He’s a sight to see at the track and field.

Quan may seem mysterious because of his quiet personality, but he definitely cares for you. He might not show it to you directly, but he’s actually a guardian angel who always watches you. All he wants to do is to keep you away from trouble. With Quan, you get both an athlete and angel boyfriend.

Ji Cun Xi of Fated to Love You

You might consider Ji Cun Xi as the biggest jerk in the list for being irresponsible and for choosing his ex-girlfriend, but when you left, it was hell for him. This heir is as selfish as he can be, but once realizing how much you mean to him, you’d love how he shows it to you.

He’s an immature guy who only cares for himself, until he starts

caring about you.

Cun Xi may not be your top pick in the list, but wouldn’t you want to grow up, experience the bitterness of life, and learn how to live your life with him? Love isn’t always about sweet gestures, but also about getting through obstacles with your partner.

Hwang Tae Kyung of You’re Beautiful

A stunning front man of a famous band – don’t most girls like the rock star type, the kind of guy who would swoon you with his songs? But Hwang Tae Kyung isn’t just a handsome face and a sweet voice. Although hard to see in his usual demeanor, Tae Kyung would protect you and your secrets at all costs.

Tae Kyung might treat you and make you feel like nothing at first, but deep inside his heart is a concerned guy who wants nothing but your safety.

Also, sometimes, his rudeness is just a product of his extreme jealousy.

With this list, I hope I helped you with your current Valentine’s Day dilemma.

Now, take your pick. Pop some popcorn. Make your bed comfortable. And enjoy a series marathon date with your lucky guy. ■ This article is a Philippine Canadian Inquirer (PCI) special for Valentine’s day, aiming to feature romance in media. The selection of the series in this list does not reflect the whole of the company and its management.

The list was based on the writers’ perspectives on the subject.

Lifestyle

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

10 anime... ❰❰ 22

in their youth, this anime gives its viewers a peek on how these two really different individuals find themselves flocking by their similarities. Even with people creating their very own worlds, people are actually more alike than how they perceive themselves.

While this anime presents its take on relationships, it does not fail to tickle its audience on the blossoming emotions between the really serious Shizuku and the easy-going Haru – not to mention, their friendship circle who have their own worlds to share.

Nijirou Days

When the topic is love, it is mostly associated with women – immediately considered as a “girl talk topic.” So having a series with four main male protagonists’ perspectives and experiences on their love lives is a breathe of fresh air. This is where Nijirou Days enters.

Focusing on the lives of friends Natsuki Hashiba, the hopeless romantic; Tomoya Matsunaga, the lady killer; Keiichi Katakura, the sadistic lover; and Tsuyoshi Naoe, the smart otaku; this series highlights how love found its way for these young men.

Apart from showcasing the perspective of men, what makes the series interesting are the characters themselves and their beaus or to-be partners. Say hello to the awkward first glance, to the courageous confession, and to the shy greetings; but you also have to welcome the ineffective playboy tactics, the constant dislike at first, and the inexplainable concern.

Four men, four love interests, four different stories – intertwined. If you want a story that will make you fall in love not only with these men but be in love with the different hues of relationships, this series is definitely for you.

Nijirou Days translated as Rainbow Days will definitely make you see the different colors of love through the eyes of these four boys.

Toradora

If one is to ask for an anime that will warm your heart with romance, tickle you with comedy, make your chest rise and fall because of the intensity of the scenes, and sting your eyes

27

No date... from the touching backstories and truths, perhaps, Toradora is one answer.

This anime is a classic that is sure to give your heart a rollercoaster ride.

Not only does it start lightly, with two opposites who find themselves working together to pursue their love interests. But the complex reality of emotions and relationships prove to them that it is not as simple as that.

Taiga Aisaka, the palmtop tiger, and Ryuuji Takasu, the senpaku-eyed are polar opposites from their attitude and appearance. Yet, a love letter incident binds them together.

This sounds like a typical setup for different storylines – at least the concept of binding two really different people.

But Toradora’s weaving of its characters’ stories definitely changes the expected path.

This anime focuses on the relationship of Taiga and Ryuuji that teaches them to see beyond what they want and to face their challenges head on.

What started to be a simple story about winning the heart of their crushes, rolls to be a more definitive line of realizations and revelations.

For the season of love, Toradora remains an iconic choice that will keep you warm this season.

Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku

For hardcore otaku out there, this is perhaps the anime for you! Not only is this oozing with romance, but its portrayal paves way for relatable characters to touch you.

True to its title, this series expands the thought of how love and relationships can be difficult for otaku – at least the really intense ones. The love for 2D may be a boundary with the real world and not everyone will be able to understand what it is like to have an otaku heart.

Fortunately for the protagonists of this series, they are matches made in heaven. Wotakoi: Love is Hard for Otaku features Narumi Momose, a fujoshi and a doujinshi artist, and her gamer otaku boyfriend, Hirotaka Nifuji. Alongside this pair is another couple, Hanako Koyanagi, a famous (crossdressing) cosplayer, and her boyfriend, Tarou Kabakura, someone who considers himself to be an ‘average’ otaku.

Interestingly, the series’ setting is the corporate world, where identities and profiles are big concerns. The bonds that the couples have before jumping into the adult world are also fascinating points that you should definitely watch out for.

While this anime inputs different elements, references, and otaku culture, it stays true to its promise of bringing a story showing the difficulties the characters encounter in their identities, but with love being their core.

Kimi ni Todoke

Misunderstandings remain afloat when people are fearful.

And unfortunately for Sawako Kuronuma, she is a subject of rumors and horror legends because of how she is likened to horror icon Sadako.

Matched with the lack of communication skills, Sawako continues to remain trapped by her dark image despite being a generally positive person.

This changes when Shouta Kazehaya enters the picture, after getting seeing her smile, getting glimpse of the real bright Sawako.

Translated as “Reaching You,” this anime is surely going to strike hearts in an instant. It sets a stage for its viewers to see how communication is a vital aspect when dealing with people and relationships.

Kimi ni Todoke gives a piece of positivity every episode that is accompanied by the emotional turmoil of its characters.

Despite these problems, it manages to shed light on various issues one may have.

What makes Kimi ni Todoke good for the heart is how pure the relationship of Sawako and Shouta, that other than feeling butterflies in your stomach, it makes you just want to stare at them and watch them let things unfold.

A high amount of fluff and blushing balanced with the heavy anchor of insecurities and doubts – this series is just good for your heart. ■ This article is a Philippine Canadian Inquirer (PCI) special for Valentine’s day, aiming to feature romance in media. The selection of the series in this list does not reflect the whole of the company and its management.

The list was based on the writers’ perspectives on the subject. www.canadianinquirer.net

❰❰ 25

the events will turn outrageously funny and lovable, and how the story is wittingly pulled together.

27 Dresses (2008)

Many of us might find ourselves in the character of Jane Nichols, an optimistic bridesmaid who prioritizes others’ happiness before hers to the point that she let her sister be with the man she loves and becomes their wedding planner.

Jane does not realize that she begins to walk on the rocky love path when she meets her opposite Kevin Doyle, a reporter who hates the concept of marriage. 27 Dresses does not only move around romance and comedies, but this film is also conveying something that we all, especially like those of “Jane,” should ponder on: sometimes saying “no” to others is what we all need to have a happier and healthier life.

The Proposal (2009)

If you find the Boss-Subordinate romantic relationship interesting, then this movie suits you well. The romantic spark between the lead couple started when Margaret Tate, a Canadian editor of a publishing company, persuaded her assistant, Andrew Paxton, to marry her after learning that she will be deported back to her home country because of her expired visa. This movie is charming, funny, and sweet that it will keep you watching without getting bored. The comedic tim-

ing and the chemistry between Margaret and Andrew was just genius; it is really impossible for you not to fall in love with these two. Promise, you won’t waste your time watching this film because you will love it for the light-hearted and enjoyable romantic-comedy that it is.

What’s Your Number (2011)

The plot centers on Ally Darling who vowed that she will not be in a relationship until she is sure that the next guy she will fall in love with will be her “the one.” Ally, who has 19 exlovers, made this promise after learning about an article which states that 96 percent of woman in America who have been with 20 or more lovers, will never get a husband. What’s Your Number gives you hope that true love will find its way to you regardless of what ‘number’ you are now; you just need to have a patient heart.

Ready to burst into laughter and feel all the butterflies in your stomach? Then go grab some snacks and make your date night this Valentine’s Day be sweet and cheesy as these rom-com movies! ■ This is article is a Philippine Canadian Inquirer (PCI) special for Valentine’s day, aiming to feature romance in media. The selection of the series in this list does not reflect the whole of the company and its management.

The list was based on the writers’ perspectives on the subject.

Lifestyle

28

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

6 Tips when you’re geographically separated with your beau

BY ARIANNE GRACE U. LACANILAO Philippine Canadian Inquirer

said, “Tell a lie once and all your truths become questionable.”

IT TAKES two people to have the standard type of relationship, and if you’re in a longdistance relationship or LDR, having a stable Wi-Fi connection is a must. Kidding aside although it makes a point, rather I meant strong foundation of trust is also a must. LDR is not so different than the normal relationship, the added challenge here is how you will keep each other while you’re geographically separated.

To make it fun and exciting, I am giving TIPS to make sure you last together. #guaranteed and #tested by couples I asked in LDR, also from those who experienced it, A.K.A. me. So, here are some reads for you to turn things around and some rules we made that worked for us and could work for you.

Communication This is essential.

No relationship (even nonLDR ones) will work if they don’t speak with each other.

Always find time to communicate.

If you are busy and can’t find time, just give a heads up to your partner that you can’t make it to your “babe time.” When you found the time to keep Skype alive, make sure you don’t just talk AT your partner, talk WITH him/her. Always add spice to your topics, don’t video call (VC) just because it’s time to. This is important; know the difference between the two.

It can’t be a routine even if it’s scheduled. Keep in mind that there are also instances when it’s acceptable to skip babe time, this time, let it go and don’t pressure them. Even if you are far apart, overly clingy has bad sides too.

Trust

Trust is something that both parties build together for them to feel safe to rely on the other person. I know it’s hard to invest trust when you don’t see the person all the time but giving your one hundred percent trust to your significant other will solve almost all your problems to rise. Remember, the only acceptable secret to keep is when you’re planning to surprise him/her. Additional, keep each other updated with each activity and be transparent.

NEVER ever lie. A wise man

Effort

Being there for the other person and making the effort to give time each day even on your busy days, shouldn’t feel like it is a responsibility. Know each other’s schedule so you can organize your time table.

If you’re receiving this kind of effort from your partner and it’s CONSTANT, learn to appreciate this effort because it’s A++. Remember, different locations could mean different time zones too and that means more efforts should be done from both ends. Efforts take a lot of work, but if it is to make your partner happy, it is worth it.

Patience

Of course, you and your partner aren’t stuck with the distance, unless you prefer it.

Plan your future, break down your goals/bucket lists into short term, midterm and long term. This way when you target your goals, you can easily achieve them. One fun way is to talk about your next meet-ups, plan your trips and make to-do together lists. Positivity is the

key, don’t dwell on being away from each other, instead, I recommend to always look up to the day when you are meeting again.

Respect

It’s never appropriate to tolerate disrespect from one because of “love” and this is one way to lead you to bye-byes when you do. Respect each other’s differences, value each other’s independence, set each other’s boundaries and give each other freedom. Not being able to be with our partners physically may serve as a huge hurdle for us, but we must respect that they are their own person. Understand that the other person has her/his own life ahead of them, they did not commit to be in a relationship with you to revolve around you.

Choice

Although it’s going to be a rough patch for the both of you, always pick each other. Your relationship is up to your hands, if something happens, it is because you both chose it to happen. Always team up with your partner and decide to choose each other even there are more options.

I’m sure there are more ways to maintain a strong long-distance relationship and as long as you follow these six tips, I guarantee the possibility of being over the moon and achieving a happy ending with your far-away beau. See, distance is not a problem. The romance depends on you and your lover on how you two are going to handle it, so come on and hang on tight for a long way ride of a long-distance relationship. ■

Companies make room for the office power nap, recognizing need for rest

BY CASSANDRA SZKLARSKI The Canadian Press TORONTO — Snoozing on the job isn’t just permitted at Bob Vaez’s software company, it’s encouraged.

The Toronto boss of EventMobi describes himself as “the only CEO that promotes people

to sleep at work,” insisting the policy boosts productivity and company morale.

To that end, EventMobi’s open-concept waterfront office features a private nap room where workers can grab a few Zs if they feel sluggish, or just get some alone time in a dark space if they have a headache or don’t feel well.

“It’s just from my own expe-

rience,” Vaez says of his reasons for setting up the quiet space.

“As (with) any other tech professional worker, you work really odd hours and your brain just sometimes shuts off. Especially after lunch you just can’t work and I’ve been to other offices (where) people sleep at ❱❱ PAGE 30 Companies make

www.canadianinquirer.net

29

Sports MPBL announces details of upcoming All-Star game

BY GIANNA LLANES Philippine Canadian Inquirer

Ramon “Tats” Suzara.

PHILIPPINE SUPERLIGA / FACEBOOK

Former PSL head Tats Suzara faces lawsuit for P6.76 million

BY GIANNA LLANES Philippine Canadian Inquirer FORMER PHILIPPINE Superliga (PSL) head and current Philippine Southeast (SEA) Games Organizing Committee executive director Ramon “Tats” Suzara is facing a theft complaint worth P6.76 million from the semi-professional volleyball league, with PSL president and board member Adrian Paolo Laurel representing the group.

The funds were allegedly unauthorized, but distributed between 2015 to 2016; both Suzara and former PSL treasurer/finance director Donald Jose Caringal facing charges under the crime of qualified theft from Article 310 of the Revised Penal Code that can lead to 12 years in prison. Three checks were found in Suzara’s name, two under Caringal, and six payable to cash – all signed by the former president and treasurer. The amounts of the checks ranged from P15,000 to P4 million, which totals up to P6,762,946. The checks then did not reflect in the league’s financial records.

In the 11-page complaint, Laurel elaborated, “The withdrawals of the aforementioned amount are unauthorized and were not disclosed to the Board

of Directors of the corporation.

It was only after PSL secured the services of an external auditor that the foregoing anomaly was discovered.”

He added that the board met to discuss the reasoning behind these withdrawals, but came up with no conclusion. He also shares that during their time working for the league, Suzara and Caringal approached Laurel asking for an external auditor who can be “controlled or dictated upon,” but he rejected the idea. His statement also read, “Since both respondents … withdrew directly from the account of the corporation without any valid authority, each of them abused [their] relationship with the [PSL]. They abused the high degree of confidence given to them through their positions in the corporation. Hence, the taking of the cash of the corporation was done with grave abuse of confidence.”

The first complaint against the two bodies was filed last July 2018, where Laurel worked with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to explore the “irregular and unauthorized disbursements of company funds.” In November, both Suzara and Caringa were asked to explain the checks and withdrawals, but they refused to make a statement. ■

WEEKS AFTER returning back to the Philippines from his victory against Adrien Broner last January 19, founding owner of Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) boxer-turnedpolitician Senator Manny Pacquiao has announced the details of this season’s All-Star game.

Among the prizes of the event, which will be happening in March at the Mall of Asia Arena, are P500,000 for the winning team, P50,000 for the head coach, and P30,000 for the assistant coach.

The head coach of the team from the South Division is Davao Occidental Tigers-Cocolife’s Don Dulay, where he will be backed up by either Al Vergara of the Muntinlupa Cages, Ramon Pido of the General Santos City Warriors, or Mac Tan of the Batangas City Tanguay Athletics. As for the team representing the North division, they will either be headed by Jojo Lastimosa of the Bataan Risers, Philip Cezar of the Manila Stars, Cholo Villanueva of the Makati Super Crunch, or Randy Alcantara of the San Juan Knights. Currently, Coach Jojo Lastimosa is top in ranking.

In order to choose the 13 players per team, MPBL fans

will have the opportunity to vote for their starting five through an online poll that begins on February 16 and ends on March 9. The starting five is to be composed of two guards, two forwards, and one center. For the remaining eight players, the head coaches will call the shots.

Among some of the other features of the event are the Long Distance Three-Point Shootout, the Slam Dunk Competition, and the 2-Ball Challenge, where prizes will be given to the winners. For the fans who purchase Patron, Lower Box, and Upper Box tickets, they will automatically have the chance to win a brand new car and 26 motorcycles during the event. ■

Interim WBA champion Reymart Gaballo stops Japanese foe

BY LITO DELOS REYES Philippine News Agency

haymaker that caught him flush on the jaw sending him sprawled on the canvass unconscious.

The Indian remained asleep DAVAO CITY— World Boxing for minutes with the medics atAssociation (WBA) interim bantending to him. Luckily, he was tamweight champion Reymart able to recover and rested in “Assassin” Gaballo kept his unhis corner while Duno’s hands blemished record unscathed were raised in victory. with a knockout win against With the victory, Duno’s reYuya Nakamura of Japan in cord improved to 20 wins with their 10-round 16 knockouts fight at Midas and one loss.

Hotel and Casino “I am happy I in Manila on Satwon but I got so urday night.

I am happy I won but I got so concerned when Gaballo scored concerned when I saw him unconscious I saw him unhis third knocklonger than I expected. conscious longer down with a than I expected,” thundering left Duno said. hook that sent Meanwhile, Nakamura to the canvass at the studied and sized up his op- Dave Apolinario also kept his middle of the second round, ponent Kuldeep Dhanda of In- clean record intact at 11-0 with prompting referee Virgilio Gar- dia in the opening and scored a unanimous decision win cia to count the Japanese fight- knockdowns midway. against Romshane Sarguilla.

Smelling blood in the follower out.

Sarguilla had his good moNakamura protested the call ing round, Duno decided to go ments in some rounds but for being premature but Garcia for the kill.

Apolinario dominated the fight Dhanda tried to stay away with class and excellent ring stood firm in his call as Gaballo improved his impressive ring re- from Duno’s attacks but got generalship. ■ caught by a perfect vicious right cord to 21-0 with 19 knockouts. www.canadianinquirer.net

The Filipino champ scored his first two knockdowns in the opening round to the delight of the crowd.

“I was trying to size him up in the opening round but his cockiness encouraged me to go for an early knockout while sticking to the game plan,” Gaballo said.

In the co-main event, Romero “Ruthless” Duno patiently

30

Business PAL, ANA to explore mutual cooperation

BY MA. CRISTINA ARAYATA Philippine News Agency MANILA — Flag carrier Philippine Airlines (PAL) and All Nippon Airways (ANA) are set to explore a mutual cooperation.

Celebrating their partnership, PAL officials went to ANA’s headquarters in Tokyo on Friday. Both carriers pledged their commitment to work together and lift each other up.

Michael Tan, PAL Holdings’ director and treasurer, represented his father, Lucio, during Friday’s meeting.

In his speech, Tan emphasized that the two carriers will work together and mutually cooperate to build on each other’s legacies.

“We both share a commitment and passion that is deep and traditional, but also young and modern, and very much focused on a future of innovation and opportunities,” he said.

Tan added that PAL looks forward to a long and mutually beneficial relationship that will bring more progress to Japan and the Philippines.

Both sides will explore areas of mutual cooperation, the details of which will be disclosed at the right time.

“Currently, ANA provides ground handling for PAL

flights operating from Haneda.

Ground handling services for

PAL flights out of Narita, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Osaka, and Sapporo are being served by another service-provider. ANA flights operating out of Manila are being handled on-ground by Macroasia,” PAL spokesperson Cielo Villaluna told the Philippine News Agency.

This was the first time both parties met after signing an agreement last January 29.

Under this agreement, ANA acquired 9.5 percent of PAL Holdings, Inc. and will put in an investment of USD95 million.

ANA, Japan’s largest airline, reportedly acquired the shares from Trustmark Holdings Corporation owned by Lucio Tan. ■

mental-health issues.

It has a couch, diffuser with essential oils, a salt lamp, mats for stretching, and a couch for resting and napping.

“There are a lot of people that are not declaring disability or mental disability,” she notes.

“And we are working in a highly sales-driven environment where there is a lot of stress so we really wanted to create a space where people can relax, have a nap.”

For job-seekers weighing multiple offers, a healthy workplace can win them over, she adds, believing many workers want more than just a good salary.

“Millennials and the younger talent and the younger generation are looking more for the rewarding career (and) selfdevelopment rather than just the pay.”

Universities, too, are recognizing that some of their students are exhausted by long commutes, awkward class schedules, jobs and personal commitments.

Two years ago, the student union that jointly serves Humber College and the University of Guelph-Humber created two sleep lounges for its two Toronto campuses, and then doubled the number of beds at one of

them last September.

The expanded lounge now has 12 beds while the second hosts eight. Together, they’ve drawn about 4,000 users this school year, well surpassing the 3,000 that dropped by during the entire school year in 20172018, says the union, known as Ignite.

“We are a commuter school and a lot of our students, they don’t get to go home until maybe eight or nine hours after they’ve had a whole day on campus,” says union president Monica Khosla, who represents students at both schools, which includes a satellite campus for the University of Guelph.

Over at Toronto’s Centennial College, the student union bought four so-called “EnergyPods” by the U.S. company MetroNaps last August, adds spokesman Brad Beamish.

One has been installed next to the cafeteria, another in the library.

Their many features include a retractable privacy visor, speakers that whisper relaxation music and pre-programmed relaxation guides, wake alarms, lights and vibration controls.

“There were basically people jumping in them before they were finished being set up. The

demand was almost immediate,” Beamish recalls.

Productivity expert Lisa Belanger is glad to see such initiatives afoot, noting that other countries seem to understand the need for work/life balance far better than Canada.

She points to Finnish sauna culture and the Swedish coffee break known as Fika.

“Europe is doing better on this for sure with valuing vacation, respite, weekends,” says Belanger, a post-doc researcher at the University of Calgary whose work includes looking at effective break strategies.

Historically, labour breaks were introduced to boost efficiency, she notes. These days, they are eliminated in the belief they slow us down.

“Coffee breaks were designed in the industrial era so that it increased productivity, reduced safety concerns and injuries and errors,” says Belanger, also CEO of the consulting firm ConsciousWorks, which looks at how brain health, nutrition and sleep affect performance.

“It’s gotten to the point where we kind of skipped over them. We put our coffee in a to-go mug and just get it in us as quickly as possible and forget that our brain requires breaks.” ■

At the milestone event, from left: PAL / PAL HOLDINGS, INC. President and COO Jaime J. Bautista, PAL Director and PAL HOLDINGS, INC. Director/ Treasurer Michael G. Tan, ANA HOLDINGS Inc. President and CEO Shinya Katanozaka and ANA President and CEO Yuji Hirako.

PAL/WEBSITE

Companies make... ❰❰ 28

their desk and it’s really frowned upon. If you can’t work, what’s the point?”

The benefits of adequate sleep are well-established, but Vaez’s willingness to address tired staffers in such a direct way is relatively rare.

Still, he’s not the only one.

Google Canada spokesman Aaron Brindle says nap rooms can be found in the tech giant’s offices around the world, including the Toronto office where a wellness space for nursing mothers can be reserved for taking a break, or taking a nap.

Another space at their engineering headquarters in Kitchener, Ont., features two high-tech recliners with large spherical privacy visors for extra-tired employees looking to grab some shut-eye.

Meanwhile, management consulting firm Accenture says its three-floor Toronto office features a wellness room where staffers can snooze. That’s in addition to various inclusivity initiatives — gender neutral and accessible washrooms, a room for nursing mothers, and a meditation/prayer room with a foot-washing station.

It’s a phenomenon that seems primarily centred in technology and marketing

sectors, says Alina Owsianik, director of talent acquisition, diversity and inclusion at Randstad Canada.

Owsianik knows of at least five Randstad clients with nap rooms, and credits their existence to a new generation of workers who increasingly blur the line between their home and work lives.

“Millennials are spending much more time than our parents did at work. They also work crazy hours, different hours, and we want to adjust the work style and the balance to their needs,” she says. “(That includes) a lot of development shops, technology shops, where maybe there are crazy deadlines or people like to work in the evenings (and) have a nap during the daytime.

That’s why we see employers actually adapting the workspace and creating a dedicated space to take a nap.”

She believes it’s more than just a fad, insisting “they are becoming more and more popular” as an added tool to recruit top talent.

Owsianik says Randstad began testing its own version of the nap room, dubbed the “recharge room,” after an employee committee suggested the measure as a way to address

www.canadianinquirer.net

Business

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

31

PH will always be an Senate votes to transfer Mislatel agri country: PRRD ownership to consortium

BY LILYBETH ISON Philippine News Agency MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte told farmers in Mindanao that the Philippines will always be an agricultural country and therefore his administration will go all out in supporting them.

According to Agriculture Secretary Emmanuel “Manny” Piñol, the President made the statement Monday night in Buluan, Maguindanao where the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) distributed land titles to over 7,000 Christian and Moro farmers from the different provinces of the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM).

“I attended the event because the Department of Agriculture (DA) has entered into a formal partnership with the DAR by providing support services like roads, irrigation, machinery and credit to agrarian reform beneficiaries,” Piñol said.

He said the President’s statement “quashed all misgivings on the fate of agriculture under his administration” and “gave me great relief and lifted my sagging spirits after over two years of seeming indifference by our key planners and policy makers of agriculture.”

“The Presidential declaration once and for all clears up the fate of agriculture and fisheries under this administration resulting from statements like

‘agriculture is not our priority’ and the lean towards dependence on importation,” he said.

In 2018, agriculture and fisheries received a budget equivalent to less than 2 percent of the country’s budget.

Piñol said that during a Congressional hearing last year, he was asked by members of the appropriations committee to respond to a statement made by a fellow Cabinet Secretary saying that agriculture is not the priority of the Duterte administration.

“I refused to respond to the statement saying that it would not look good for us members of the Cabinet to be engaged in a public debate over a policy which only the President has the right to determine,” he said.

“Having been born to hardships and poverty where there was never enough of anything, I have learned to be patient and just make do with whatever budget was given to the Department of Agriculture. But I have to admit that I suffered in silence and there were times when I asked myself whether the hard work and the sacrifices that I and other officials of the Department did were worth anything. Now, it is clear. I feel so relieved,” he said.

The DA chief said there’s still over three years left and “there is a lot of things which we could now do given the clear statement from the President that agriculture is the way to go in this country.” ■

President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech after leading the ceremonial distribution of Certificates of Land Ownership Award (CLOAs) to the Agrarian Reform Beneficiaries of Maguindanao JOEY DALUMPINES

BY FILANE MIKEE CERVANTES Philippine News Agency

Senator Grace Poe, chair of the Senate public services committee, said her panel removed any reference to Mislatel as the third telco or the new major player since the validity of its franchise could still be questioned in courts.

“We took out anything that pertains to calling Mislatel a new major player or third telco. We’re treating it as a regular franchise because later on,

ments regarding coverage and internet speed.

It does not also mean an automatic renewal of its franchise that is set to expire in 2023.

MANILA — The Senate on Mislatel Consortium is curWednesday adopted a resolurently undergoing a 90-day tion seeking the transfer of post-qualification phase, which ownership of the Mindanao started from the awarding of Islamic Telephone Company, the third telco slot by the NaInc. (Mislatel) to a consortium tional Telecommunications recently named as the country’s Commission (NTC) on Novemthird major telecommunicaber 19, 2018. It will end on Febtion player. ruary 17.

The Senate The consorconcurred with tium needs to House of Represubmit docusentatives Conments, such as We took out anything that pertains current Resocongressional to calling Mislatel a new major lution 23 with approval of its player or third telco. only three senafranchise, regtors opposing istration from the transfer of the Securities ownership to the consortium someone might go to the court and Exchange Commission, owned by Davao-based busi- and say Congress recognized approval of the Philippine nessman Dennis Uy’s Udenna Mislatel as the third telco,” Poe Competition Commission of Corp., Chelsea Logistics Hold- said. its bidding agreement impleings Corp., and state-owned She said the resolution does mentation, posting of the perChina Telecom. not in any way preclude Con- formance security bond and Senate Minority Leader gress from altering, modifying, rollout plan for the processing Franklin Drilon, Senator Pan- amending or repealing Misla- of its Certificate of Public Confilo Lacson, and Senator Risa tel’s franchise granted under venience and Necessity by the Hontiveros voted against the Republic Act No. 8627 should NTC. ■ resolution. it fail to make good its commit-

Dominguez cites Japan’s strong support for infra program PHILIPPINE NEWS AGENCY DAVAO CITY — Finance Secretary Carlos Dominguez III has underscored the “generous support” extended by Japan in helping jumpstart the Philippines’ ambitious “Build, Build, Build” infrastructure program, which is crucial to the fulfillment of President Rodrigo Duterte’s high and inclusive growth agenda.

Demonstrating Japan’s “steadfast commitment” to the “Build, Build, Build” program, as well as the Philippines’ other priority initiatives, is the signing of nine loan agreements between Manila and Tokyo since Duterte assumed office in June 2016, Dominguez said in a statement on Monday. www.canadianinquirer.net

Several of these agreements involving infrastructure projects, Dominguez said, were processed and approved in a short span of three to four months, in line with the “fast and sure” approach adopted by both countries.

“This demonstrates our shared commitment to work closely to ensure that the Filipino people get to benefit from these projects at reasonable costs and at the soonest possible time,” said Dominguez at the start of his bilateral meeting with Japan Foreign Minister Tarō Kōno held on the afternoon of February 10 (Sunday) at the Waterfront Insular Hotel here.

Minister Kōno said that on top of further strengthening bilateral ties with the Philippines, the government of Japan also remains fully committed to

support the Duterte administration’s peace-building efforts in Mindanao and is prepared to expand its assistance to ensure the success of the peace process.

“We welcome the ratification of the Bangsamoro Organic Law after the plebiscite in January. We have been supporting this peace process in Mindanao for more than a decade and we are ready to expand support as advancement of this peace process progresses,” Kōno said.

On behalf of the Japanese government, Kōno also conveyed his sympathies to the victims of the terror attack in Jolo last month.

“We strongly condemn any act of terror and that cannot be accepted and we would like to convey our sympathy towards the people and the government of the Philippines,” he said. ■

32

Technology Grab a soda and go: Convenience stores get more convenient

BY MICHAEL LIEDTKE AND JOSEPH PISANI The Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO — Get ready to say good riddance to the checkout line.

A year after Amazon opened its first cashier-less store, startups and retailers are racing to get similar technology in stores throughout the world, letting shoppers buy groceries without waiting in line.

If they work, cashier-less stores will not only save time but maybe money too. From cameras and sensors, the stores will know when shoppers pick up a product and put it down, and can send them a discount to tempt them to buy it. Merchants will receive more insights into how people shop.

They can create more space for merchandise, better track when shelves need replenishing and draw more business from the hordes of customers who detest long lines.

But the monitoring system underlying cashier-less technology is bound to raise new privacy issues and worries about customer data falling into the wrong hands, especially if stores deploy facial recognition software in the omnipresent cameras watching shoppers.

It could be scary, and it could be creepy,” says Peter Trepp, CEO of FaceFirst, a Los Angeles company that so far has only sold its facial recognition tools to retailers trying to identify shoplifters and other criminals.

“But if it’s used to give people

a 30 per cent coupon on something they want that is going to be a nice benefit. That kind of experience will help people embrace the technology.”

Amazon has a head start in the U.S., opening 10 convenience stores in three cities: Chicago, San Francisco and Seattle. The stores sell salads and sandwiches for lunch, everyday items like toilet paper and Advil, and groceries such as Cheerios and raw ground beef.

Shoppers scan an app to enter the Amazon Go store, grab what they want and walk out.

Cameras and sensors on the ceiling track what’s taken so their credit or debit cards are automatically charged when they leave. Shoppers will know how long it took to shop, since Amazon sends an alert with their shopping time.

“It was just a phenomenal experience,” said Tom Hadfield, who bought a Coke Zero in a minute and five seconds at one of the Go stores in San Francisco while visiting the city recently.

Hadfield, who runs a technology startup in Austin, Texas, said it reminded him of the first time he rode an Uber.

“You just know it’s going to be the future,” he said.

Amazon doesn’t say how much money its cashier-less stores make. But analysts from RBC Capital Markets recently visited Amazon Go’s two San Francisco stores to come up with a number. Based on their observations of traffic patterns, they estimated about 400 to 700 customers per day

will visit each of the roughly 2,000-square-foot Amazon Go stores, generating sales of $1.1 million to $2 million annually, assuming an average purchase of $10. At the high end of that range, it works out to twice the sales of a typical U.S. convenience store, RBC calculated.

Several startups are pitching technology to retailers who want to create Amazon Go-like stores of their own. One of the companies, called AiFi, says it has signed deals with the Carrefour chain in France and Zabka convenience stores in Poland.

Others, including Zippin, Grabandgo, Trigo Vision and Inokyo, say they are negotiating deals with retailers in the U.S. and other parts of the world, although none are ready to identify them yet “Once a few big retail chains begin to deploy this technology, it’s going to snowball and we will see more and more of them doing it,” says Michael Suswal, co-founder of Standard Cognition, another cashier-less technology startup.

So far, companies working on the technology are finding ways to do without facial recognition. Their systems rely on cameras for identifying objects rather than people.

Both Standard Cognition and Zippin opened small stores in San Francisco last year that have held invitation-only demonstrations or been open for limited hours with a scant selection of merchandise.

“I like the idea of being able to come into a store, grab what you want and just walk out,”

www.canadianinquirer.net

The prototype Amazon Go store at Day One, Seattle, Washington.

SOUNDERBRUCE / WIKIMEDIA COMMONS, CC BY-SA 4.0

says Tomonori Nishimura, a 30-year-old researcher for Fujitsu Laboratories after getting a $4.86 bag of Funyuns at Standard’s small store in San Francisco recently.

Amazon appears the most likely to make cashier-less stores a more common sight, partly because it can afford to open stores with the technology already built into them, given its current market value of about $800 billion — ranking among the most valuable companies in the world.

But the country’s biggest retailers are also trying to speed up the shopping process. Sam’s Club, the warehouse-style club owned by Walmart, opened a test store in Dallas that has no cashiers. Instead, shoppers use their smartphones to scan products and pay. 7-Eleven is testing something similar at 14 stores in Dallas.

“Waiting in line is torture,” says 7-Eleven’s Gurmeet Singh, the company’s chief digital officer and chief information officer.

Though, he added, there are no plans to get rid of cashiers.

He wants people to have a

choice on how they pay.

As cashier-less stores become more common, there will likely be more political pressure to ensure they still offer an option to pay by cash to avoid discriminating against lower-income consumers without bank accounts and credit cards. In anticipation of that likelihood, Standard Cognition already has set up a separate kiosk for allcash purchases in its test store.

RBC believes Amazon eventually will also introduce its cashier-less technology in its Whole Foods supermarkets, though Amazon says it has no plans to do so. For now, Amazon seems to have its eye on smaller stores: Late last year it introduced a 450-square-foot version of Amazon Go that can be plopped into office buildings or hospitals, like a walk-in vending machine.

“Within five years, I think just about everyone will have experienced what autonomous checkout is like,” says Suswal of Standard Cognition. “And within 10 years, regular checkout stands will be very rare.” ■ Pisani reported from New York.

Technology

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

33

More technology coming to mortgage industry but clients still want human touch

BY LINDA NGUYEN The Canadian Press TORONTO — Sometime in the near future, the majority of mortgage applications in Canada will be completed online or with a chatbot, mortgage expert Rob McLister predicts.

McLister, who runs mortgage comparison website RateSpy. com, says unlike the United States and the United Kingdom, Canada has been slow to adopt technology — whether its using artificial intelligence or online applications — in the mortgage industry. But he expects that soon will change.

“Most people someday will not need a human touch to get a mortgage. They won’t even want it,” said McLister. “If you can get a materially better rate online for less dealings with a human being, the majority of folks are going to take that offer.”

He likened the technological disruption to investing online, which has become more common over the last few years with the popularity of DIY brokerages.

Earlier this month, TD Bank launched a digital mortgage application that allows users 24/7 access on all devices, the ability to save and resume, track the form’s status and upload documents digitally.

Pat Giles, vice-president of

real estate secured lending at TD Bank, says in the past, applying or renewing a mortgage would involve multiple faceto-face meetings and large amounts of paperwork.

Today, homebuyers are looking for more ease, but that doesn’t necessarily mean they want to give up working with someone in-person or over the phone.

Giles doesn’t believe there will ever come a day where a bot or AI would completely replace a mortgage specialist.

Royal Bank says it’s not in any rush to do away with mortgage advisers either, but notes that there are improvements to be made in making the process of obtaining a mortgage — and

buying a home — more seamless.

For instance, it has a website that allows RBC clients with mortgages at other institutions to get pre-approved and find out if they would benefit from a switch.

It does this by using information the bank already has and pulling credit scores and the estimated value of a property through partnerships with credit reporting agency TransUnion and online property value service Teranet.

“Time and time again, (people say) ‘look this is a big purchase, I need to talk to somebody. I need to know this is going to go through and I want to talk about affordability,” said

Nicole Wells, vice-president of home equity financing at the bank.

“A lot of people make decisions just on rate, but it’s so much more. It’s how you manage all the costs of home ownership. You can’t get that all online and most people just want someone to talk to.”

Wells says RBC doesn’t ask customers to complete a mortgage application online on their own because it’s a complex process. Instead, those looking to apply or switch a mortgage are asked to fill out a form that takes a minute or two and then be handed over to a specialist who helps them with the remainder of the process.

She says it’s about finding the

right balance of merging technology with the right people.

“There is definitely lots of room and scope for the imagination when it comes to technology and tying people and clients together,” added Wells, who points to the potential for incorporating the use of more digital documents and e-signatures in the mortgage process.

Barry Gollom, a senior vicepresident with HSBC Bank Canada, says although the mortgage application process can often start online, a chatbot, no matter how smart, could never replace a human specialist.

“Part of the conversation is really understanding and helping the customer understand what he or she is financially comfortable with,” he said.

Last July, HSBC Canada launched a dedicated mortgage centre, which includes 15 non-commissioned mortgage specialists, each with at least 10 years of experience.

But McLister argues that someday, sooner rather than later, chatbots will have the skills to take over these jobs, especially for those who qualify for standard mortgages.

“Not everyone is going to be able to close a digital mortgage end to end without human contact but the number of people who will accept that will grow,” he said.

“It’s just a matter of time.” ■

NRCP seeks replication of bioremediation tech among agencies

BY MA. CRISTINA ARAYATA Philippine News Agency MANILA — The National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP) seeks Congress’ support in replicating the bioremediation technology developed by the University of the Philippines (UP), among government agencies, an executive has said.

NRCP representatives, together with member Nelly Aggangan who developed the technology went to the House of Representatives on Thursday to present Aggangan’s re-

search project. Bioremediation is removing heavy metals and other toxic wastes from contaminated sites.

“We wanted to convince them (legislators) that this bioremediation technology is important for the bills that they will make.

We want it to be replicated by other government agencies, like the DENR (Department of Environment and Natural Resources) and other agencies involved in reforestation,” NRCP Research Division chief, Rubie Raterta told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

She added that the local government of Mogpog, Marinduque, which has been helping

Aggangan in her research project since 2015, has been adopting the technology.

Basically, Aggangan’s research project eyes greening the mine tailings, or dumpsites of mining wastes.

Aggangan explained that mine tailings are brown due to the absence of plants, which don’t survive if the soil is acidic, has no essential nutrient, and contains heavy metals, such as lead, copper, cadmium and zinc.

“Heavy metals are toxic to all living organisms,” she said.

Aggangan’s project site was in Mariduque, which she described as a place surrounded by various ecosystems, marine www.canadianinquirer.net

bodies and communities.

Thus, there is a need to “regreen” the mine tailing area to prevent exposure of communities to heavy metals.

“This technology will regreen the area, and also reduce exposure to cancer-causing metals,” Aggangan said in a video presentation.

She said the BIOTECH in UP Los Baños has developed microbial biofertilizers that would provide nutrients and water to plants.

She also narrated that in her research project, they have planted tree seedlings, such as narra and acacia. “After a year, there was an impressive growth recorded,

with 95 percent survival for the treated seedlings,” she said.

Raterta, meanwhile, explained that this is the first time the NRCP has approached the Congress, hoping for a collaboration for their member’s research project.

“Dr. Aggangan’s project started in 2015, and we had to wait for those seedlings to grow and see the results. The local government of Marinduque provided her the space for that project. It was an area that was abandoned for 30 years,” she said.

Raterta added that Aggangan still needs to go back to Marinduque and do other things for this project. ■

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

34

CANADA

A reputed fast growing Plumbing & Heating company is Hiring full time Licensed Plumbers and Registered Apprentice.

Desired Qualification minimum 5 years for Plumber minimum 3 years for Apprentice G License with clean Driving record.

Interested candidates are requested to send their Resume at

km.ali@senergyheating.com

#1 ASTROLOGER IN VANCOUVER

PANDIT: SAI GANESH PALM, FACE AND HOROSCOPE READING

OVER 35 YEARS EXPERIENCE 100% REMOVAL OF BLACK MAGIC & GIVE PROTECTION MONEY ENEMY FAMILY MARRIAGE EDUCATION

CHILDLESS COUPLES JEALOUSY LOVE HEALTH

SEXUAL PROPERTY WORRIED ABOUT LOVED ONES

VISIT ME ONCE. GET 100% GUARANTEED SOLUTIONS

SORT OUT ALL KINDS OF PROBLEMS IN 48 HOURS

778-667-0165

AMP PROMATIC IS LOOKING FOR PRODUCTION WORKERS Sheet metal manufacturing company is looking to hire workers with some experience on metal cutting machines, plus general labor.

If you don’t have experience but are hard worker we will train and will offer you good wages.

This can be a full-time or part-time position and we are located in Vaughan, Hwy 7 and Weston Rd.

Contact: Walter at 416-991-1007 or send e-mail ampincwf@gmail.com

HIRING FOR 8 TIM HORTON STORES IN VANCOUVER Food Service Supervisors, Bakers, and Food Counter Attendants Permanent/Full Time. 6 mos.to 2 yrs. experience Salary range $13.00 to $14.70 per hour + benefits Willing to work shifts; Spoken English knowledge Anyone who is authorized to work in Canada can apply.

Send application w/complete work history and references to:

fmellin10@gmail.com

Electronic Technicians Needed Experience in Low Voltage Electrical System installation and Servicing Computers with Networking Email resume to suda@alarmboss.com Call 416-432-1902

HIRING LUCKY SUPERMARKET 10628 King George Blvd, Surrey B.C is hiring all positions such as: store manager, grocery manager, produce manager, office administration, file maintenance clerk, head cashier, cook, BBQ chef, meat cutter, baker, bakery clerk, grocery clerk, frozen clerk, meat clerk, produce clerk, cashier, truck driver and kitchen helper.

Please email resume to: hrsurrey@luckysupermarket.ca

URGENT: NANNY in Pickering, Ontario To care for 2 young kids in private home. 40hrs/week Email your resume at

adamae27@gmail.com

Spectrum Health Care is Hiring

Personal Support Workers who want more!

More hours Benefits plus pension $500 Signing Bonus Learn more at www.spectrumhealthcare.com

www.canadianinquirer.net

35

Travel Portuguese town opens window Silang Church: A to its slave trade history national cultural

treasure in Cavite

BY RUSSELL CONTRERAS The Associated Press LAGOS, PORTUGAL — To the casual visitor, Lagos is a striking beach town of charming coastlines and sightly sandstone cliffs.

A medieval castle sits alongside boutique cafes and outdoor restaurants serving boiled and baked octopus. One can speed along the shore in a watercraft during the day and catch an intimate Fado show at night.

Lagos is also where the African slave trade took root in Europe.

And once you go looking for that, nothing erases its legacy — not the pristine waters, not the soft chords of a Portuguese guitarra.

Across Portugal, cities and residents are coming to terms with the country’s role in a trade that ultimately enslaved an estimated 12.5 million Africans around the world. Activists and elected officials have debated placing memorial markers or establishing slavery museums. Like the state of New Mexico in the United States, Portugal is examining its conquistador past and the effects it had on subjugated peoples.

In Lagos, the community has made its move.

In 1444, the first 200 captured black slaves from West Africa arrived in this enclave in the heart of southern Portugal’s Algarve region. They had been kidnapped in raids after Prince Henry the Navigator set up a trading post off the coast of present-day Mauritania. Different forms of slavery already existed, but a newly efficient and barbaric system soon arose.

Profits from the sale of those first enslaved Africans led to more Portuguese raids of West Africa. Over 10 years, an estimated 800 slaves came to Lagos through this pre-Middle Passage route. As a result, Lagos became Europe’s first African slave market, and it was enriching the Portuguese Crown.

BY GLADYS PINO Philippine News Agency

Within a generation, the Portuguese African slave market moved to the capital, Lisbon, where the monarch established rules on arrivals, taxation and sales. Other European navigators developed their own routes, and their nations followed in the lucrative African slave trade.

Walking around Lagos, it’s hard to reconcile how a place of such beauty was witness to such human horror. After all, eating a bifana — a Portuguese sandwich made of marinated pork cutlets — while listening to the calm waves lap at boulders is soothing to any soul trying to escape the political divisions back home.

And yet, to the credit of this small beach town, it’s not ignoring its past. It wants to you investigate it.

At the spot where the slave market began, a slavery museum has been erected. El Mercado de Escravos, or the Slave Market, sits in a building that once housed enslaved Africans.

The museum tells the story of the first captured black slaves and the economic boom that followed. A striking sculpture of King Amador, who started a slave revolt on the island of Sao Tome in 1595, grabs your attention on the first floor. It stands next to a bench that some museum officials say is where slaves once waited to be sold.

Upstairs, the walls are painted

with images of the slave route and of slavery. Exhibits include a book kept by a slave trader and chains that once held slaves.

Outside in the Praca do Infante D. Henrique square is the open space where slaves likely walked before experiencing their first sale. Castelo dos Governadores, a 13th century Moorish castle and fortress, is located around the corner. One can’t help but imagine slaves walking through these tunnels where tourists now take selfies and stroll freely after a snack.

Carlos Fortuna, an economics professor at the University of Coimbra in Coimbra, Portugal, said that El Mercado de Escravos is part of a trend in travel that some call “dark tourism,” where visitors seek out sites linked to misery and tragedy.

“Think Auschwitz,” Fortuna said. “You can visit the site of this notorious concentration camp and then get ice cream right after just outside.”

At El Mercado de Escravos, visitors can buy souvenir magnets and bookmarks.

So to take in the full impact of this town’s connection to human suffering, one must put away the wallet and the selfie stick. Meditate on what took place here and appreciate the acknowledgement of that history after 500 years. It’s a powerful feeling. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

SILANG, CAVITE — The Nuestra Señora de Candelaria (Our Lady of Candelaria), more popularly known as the Silang Church and is considered as the oldest standing structure of colonial baroque architecture in Cavite, is truly an architectural and engineering marvel.

Due to its association with prehistoric events and past industries, the church complex and its retablos (altarpiece) was declared as National Cultural Treasure (NCT) by the National Museum in 2017.

As NCT, the church “will receive protection and priority on heritage management projects from the national government,” Phillip Lacson Media, chairman of the “Sumilang” Fiesta Executive Committee and member of the Silang Heritage Council, told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) on Friday.

The church’s historical significance, its authenticity, and the exquisite beauty of its woodwork, plus the harmony of its decorative features and implements with the baroque church, and the church’s retablos, catapulted it to the NCT list, Medina added.

He said the church retablos, finished in the early 17th century, are “a unique testament to Filipinos’ creativity and indomitable spirit”, highlighting the indigenous and local elements used in a supposedly colonial art.

After its declaration in 2017, the church received its NCT brass marker, which was formally unveiled to the people of Silang last February 3, in time of the town’s celebration of “Sumilang”.

A joint initiative of the Silang Parish Council for Culture and Heritage and the local government of Silang, the commemo-

ration is the church’s third remarkable marker, adding up to the historical marker given in 2008 by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP); and the pilgrim church marker from the Diocese of Imus given in 2012 as part of the Golden Jubilee celebration of the diocese.

Various dignitaries, led by Deputy Head of Mission of the Spanish Embassy Amaya Fuentes, and local officials, led by 5th District Rep. Roy Loyola, came in full force to witness the unveiling event.

The declaration of documents was signed by town mayor Emilia Lourdes Poblete, along with Bishop Evangelista and Fr. Dimaranan and National Museum representative Raquel Flores, and witnessed by representatives of the government, the Spanish Embassy to the Philippines, the Intramuros Administration, and president of the Cavite Historical Society, former Prime Minister Cezar E.A. Virata.

The town was established as a parish on February 3, 1595.

The church’s dedication to the Nuestra Señora de Candelaria was done by the Jesuits, based on the tale told by Fray Murillo Verlarde, where the image of the Virgin Mary was found by Andres in the mountains of Silang in 1640.

Its first patron saint was San Diego Alcala, a Franciscan.

Franciscans Fray Diego de la Concepcion and Juan de la Cruz were missionaries who first propagated the seeds of Christianity in Silang, including the upland towns of Maragondon, Ternate, Indang, Alfonso, and portions of Marinduque, on February 3, 1595.

This event “is just a prelude to a much grander celebration on its 425th year in 2020,” Medina added. ■

36

Travel

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Discounts to insurance: Many ways seniors can save on travel

BY DAVID KOENIG The Associated Press

Japan expands presence, visa ops in Davao

BY JOYCE ANN L. ROCAMORA Philippine News Agency MANILA — Tokyo is expanding its presence and consular oper-

ations to Mindanao, with Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono inaugurating the newest Japan Consulate-General in Davao on Sunday, the Japanese ❱❱ PAGE 38 Japan expands

at websites that track fares and hotel deals, such as airfarewatchdog.com. The alerts come in handy when airlines and othDALLAS — Most seniors have er travel-related companies ofmore free time for leisure acfer online “flash” sales that can tivities including travel, but be gone in a few hours. money is tighter when the pay“If you see a good flash sale, checks stop at retirement. jump on it,” Perkins said. “I’m a Retirees who want to travel senior, and I’ve done that a coucan make those trips more afple of times over the last three fordable by taking advantage of years,” including a round trip in senior discounts and through business class between Seattle less obvious strategies. and China for $1,500, which Many of the tips offered by he figured was half the normal travel experts work just as well price. for anyone, regardless of age, Deals that bundle some combut could be especially valuable bination of airfare, hotel or for seniors. Among them: cruise, tours, and car rental can — When travelling by air, be be cheaper than buying each flexible about dates and even separately. Some seniors, like destinations. travellers in other age groups, — Be impulare using miles sive; grab baror points to help gains when you pay for their see them. travel.

— If you’re “We find that You can’t anticipate everything, but paying a lot upseniors are more planning ahead definitely helps front, insure prone to buy save money. your trip. packages.

It’s Few airlines more economiprovide senior cal, whether it discounts anymore. American ally through AARP or the AAA be a cruise where you’re getting Airlines and United Airlines travel club, but smaller hotels your lodging and meals taken said they don’t offer senior dis- in Europe typically don’t. Pub- care of, or a tour package,” said counts. Delta did not respond lic transportation in many U.S. Beth Godlin, president of the to inquiries. Southwest Airlines cities is sometimes heavily dis- travel practice at Aon Affinity, a does, for travellers 65 and older. counted for seniors, although wholesaler of travel insurance.

It is not a set amount, a spokes- there can be catches, like re- “A high percentage of folks are man said. quiring a special card in addi- booking air separately because Southwest’s website lets cus- tion to a license or other iden- there aren’t as many (airline) tomers indicate that they are a tification. discounts as there used to be senior, and their searches will Research before a trip pays and there are so many ways to include four fare levels instead off. collect loyalty points.” of three. An Associated Press “You can’t anticipate everyBesides advice for saving sample of popular routes on a thing, but planning ahead defi- money, experts have tips for Saturday in March and a Mon- nitely helps save money,” said travelling safely. day in April indicated that the Maria Gillen, who specializes in Julie Hall, a spokeswoman senior fare was often much overseas travel for AARP. for travel club AAA, said U.S. lower than the middle “AnyGillen noted that airfare and citizens going abroad should time” fare, which comes with hotel prices often rise the clos- sign up for the State Departthe same benefits. er you get to your travel date. ment’s Smart Traveler EnrollHowever, the senior price For popular summer destina- ment Program, which makes was always higher than the tions like Italy, this is the time it easier for embassies and cheapest — but nonrefund- to be shopping for flights and consulates to contact them in able — “Wanna Get Away” fare. accommodations, she said. an emergency. She suggested Sometimes the difference was Travel to tourist destinations carrying identification besides just a few dollars, but often the will almost always be cheaper a passport, such as an internagap was more than $100 each in the off- or shoulder seasons tional driving permit, which way.

— think spring and fall in Eu- translates U.S. license informa“The only time you would rope, summer for mountain tion into 10 languages. ever consider buying a senior resorts. You’ll also encounter Hall said seniors should call fare on Southwest is if for some smaller crowds. ahead if they will need wheelreason the Wanna Get Away Expensive or exotic vacations chair assistance at the airport, fares are all sold out,” said Ed are often planned months in ad- arrive early if they don’t know Perkins, an editor at Smarter vance. If you have one or a few the airport, and carry extra Travel. That happened a few destinations in mind, it will be medicines in case the flight times, but not often, on the worthwhile to sign up for alerts home is delayed. ■ www.canadianinquirer.net

flights sampled by the AP. British Airways offers a $65 discount on economy tickets and $200 on business-class seats when purchased through a program with AARP. Amtrak has a 10 per cent discount for those 65 and up on most trains, and also on U.S.Canada service operated jointly with VIA Rail Canada. Eurail does the same. Some national rail lines in Europe, including those in England and France, give more generous breaks for seniors but only after buying a yearly card, likely to be a dealbreaker for most American visitors.

Many big hotel chains in the U.S. offer discounts of 5 per cent to 15 per cent, gener-

37

Food Retool the classic pound cake to make it ultra chocolatey AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN WE LOVE pound cake and we love chocolate, but the combination is often a disappointment. That’s because most recipes simply add chocolate to a standard pound cake recipe, which mars its finely tuned texture and usually produces lacklustre chocolate flavour.

We wanted to retool classic pound cake to make it ultrachocolatey without compromising its hallmark velvety-soft crumb. For deep chocolate flavour we used mostly Dutchprocessed cocoa powder, which incorporated seamlessly into the batter; a couple ounces of milk chocolate added richness without interfering with the cake’s texture.

We bloomed both the cocoa and the bar chocolate in hot water to maximize their impact. For an accurate measure-

ment of boiling water, bring a full kettle of water to a boil and then measure out the desired amount. The test kitchen’s preferred loaf pan measures 8 1/2by-4 1/2 inches; if you use a 9-by 5-inch loaf pan, start checking for doneness 5 minutes early.

Chocolate pound cake

Servings: 8 Start to finish: 1 hour, 45 minutes • 1 cup (5 ounces) all-purpose flour • 1 teaspoon salt • 3/4 cup (2 1/4 ounces) Dutchprocessed cocoa powder • 2 ounces milk chocolate, chopped fine • 1/3 cup boiling water • 16 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 16 pieces and softened • 1 cup (7 ounces) granulated sugar • 1/4 cup packed (1 3/4 ounces) light brown sugar

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract • 5 large eggs, room temperature Adjust oven rack to lowermiddle position and heat oven to 325 F. Grease and flour 8 1/2by-4 1/2-inch loaf pan. Whisk flour and salt together in bowl.

Place cocoa and chocolate in bowl. Pour boiling water over cocoa mixture and stir until chocolate is melted and no dry streaks of cocoa remain. Let mixture cool for 5 minutes.

Using stand mixer fitted with paddle, beat butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, and cocoa mixture on medium-high speed until fluffy, 2 to 3 minutes. Add eggs, one at a time, and beat until combined. Reduce speed to low and add flour mixture in 3 additions, scraping down bowl as needed, until just combined (batter may look slightly curdled). Give batter final stir by hand.

Transfer batter to prepared

pan and gently tap pan on counter to release air bubbles. Bake until toothpick inserted in centre comes out clean, 1 hour to 1 hour 10 minutes, rotating pan halfway through baking. Let cake cool in pan on wire rack for 10 minutes. Remove cake from pan and let cool completely on rack, about 2 hours. Serve. (Cake can be stored at room tempera-

ture for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month; defrost cake at room temperature.) ■ Nutrition information per serving: 499 calories; 256 calories from fat; 29 g fat (17 g saturated; 1 g trans fats); 197 mg cholesterol; 343 mg sodium; 53 g carbohydrate; 2 g fiber; 36 g sugar; 8 g protein.

The perfect rich, meaty ragu achieved with baby back ribs AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN RAGU CAN be made from any meat or combination of meats, but the earthiness of a pure pork ragu is undeniably attractive—and great comfort food.

Most recipes for traditional pork ragu use pork shoulder and a hard-to-find, bony cut like neck, shank, or feet to give the sauce great body. We were determined to use just one: Quick-cooking pork sausage or lean pork loin were parched after braising.

We needed a collagen-rich cut of pork, which would have deep flavour and a melting texture after long cooking—and the bones included. Baby back www.canadianinquirer.net

ribs fit the bill perfectly. We tried using all baby back ribs and found the resulting ragu rich and meaty with perfect silkiness.

For a classic Italian flavour profile, fennel took the place of celery in the ragu’s base and ground fennel rubbed into the ribs echoed the anise flavour.

Simmering the garlic head whole right in the sauce yielded sweeter softened cloves that we squeezed back into the sauce when tender.

With fresh herbs and red wine, our ragu tasted balanced and far more complex than its simple preparation would suggest. This recipe makes enough sauce to coat 2 pounds of pasta.

Serve with grated Parmesan cheese.

Pork ragu

Servings: 8 Start to finish: 3 hours

• 2 (2 1/4-to-2 1/2 pound) racks baby back ribs, trimmed and each rack cut into quarters • 2 teaspoons ground fennel • Kosher salt and pepper • 3 tablespoons olive oil • 1 large onion, chopped fine • 1 large fennel bulb, stalks discarded, bulb halved, cored, and chopped fine • 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped fine • 1/4 cup minced fresh sage • 1 1/2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary • 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons dry red wine ❱❱ PAGE 38 The perfect

38

Food

Japan expands... ❰❰ 36

Embassy here said.

“We newly opened a consulate-general in Davao and its official inauguration is coming this Sunday,” Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koji Haneda told reporters on the eve of Kono’s official visit to the country.

The official opening follows the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to Davao in January 2017, which guided the entry of investment opportunities in the area, particularly in the agriculture sector.

However, aside from the investment prospects in region, the envoy said Tokyo seeks to attract more Filipinos to visit Japan as he cited the growing tourist arrival from the Philippines in the past few years.

“Last year, half a million Filipinos visited Japan and it expanded six times over the last six years and we’d like to welcome more visitors,” Haneda said.

“Visa has been relaxed for some while and now we are giving you a 10-year visa starting last August. We would like to welcome more Filipinos,” he added.

Japan is similarly a top source

market for the Philippines.

Data from the Department of Tourism showed that the Japanese market yielded a total of 631,801 tourists in 2018 alone, reflecting an 8.1 percent growth from the previous 584,180 figures. Manila is targeting to increase visitor arrivals from Japan to 1.37 million in 2022.

Promoting Saga

Meanwhile, Japan is hyping up the promotion of Saga Prefecture, popular for the trademark Saga beef that rivals the more prominent Kobe Wagyu for its finely marbled meat and sweet, full-bodied flavor when grilled.

On Friday night, Saga Governor Yoshinori Yamaguchi visited Manila to promote their tourism products at the “Sights, Sounds, and Tastes of Saga” reception in Makati.

“There’s a lot of foreigners, including Filipinos, come here (Saga). We are enthusiastic to attract more,” Yamaguchi said.

Saga is located in the north of Kyushu and is bordered by Fukuouka Prefecture and Nagasaki Prefecture. ■

The perfect... ❰❰ 37

• 1 (28 ounce) can whole peeled tomatoes, drained and crushed coarse • 3 cups chicken broth • 1 garlic head, outer papery skins removed and top quarter of head cut off and discarded Adjust oven rack to middle position and heat oven to 300 F. Sprinkle ribs with ground fennel and generously season with salt and pepper, pressing on spices to adhere. Heat oil in Dutch oven over medium-high heat until just smoking. Add half of ribs, meat side down, and cook, without moving them, until meat is well browned, 6 to 8 minutes; transfer to plate. Repeat with remaining ribs; set aside.

Reduce heat to medium and add onion, fennel, carrots, 2 tablespoons sage, rosemary, and 1/2 teaspoon salt to now-empty pot. Cook, stirring occasionally and scraping up any browned bits, until vegetables are well browned and beginning to stick

to pot bottom, 12 to 15 minutes.

Add 1 cup wine and cook until evaporated, about 5 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes and broth and bring to simmer. Submerge garlic and ribs, meat side down, in liquid; add any accumulated juices from plate. Cover and transfer to oven. Cook until ribs are fork-tender, about 2 hours.

Remove pot from oven and transfer ribs and garlic to rimmed baking sheet. Using large spoon, skim any fat from surface of sauce. Once cool enough to handle, shred meat from bones; discard bones and gristle. Return meat to pot.

Squeeze garlic from its skin into pot. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons sage and remaining 2 tablespoons wine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. ■ Nutrition information per serving: 559 calories; 273 calories from fat; 30 g fat (10 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 168 mg cholesterol; 628 mg sodium; 11 g carbohydrate; 3 g fiber; 5 g sugar; 56 g protein.

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

FRIDAY

Try this dimpled, chewy, herbtopped deep dish focaccia AMERICA’S TEST KITCHEN CENTURIES AGO, focaccia began as a by-product: When bakers needed to gauge the heat of the wood-fired oven—focaccia stems from focolare and means “fireplace”—they would tear off a swatch of dough, flatten it, drizzle it with olive oil, and pop it into the hearth to bake as an edible oven thermometer.

From there evolved countless variations on the theme—the stuffed pizza-like focaccia in Puglia and Calabria, the ringshaped focaccia in Naples, focaccia made from rich or lean doughs, and even sweet versions. That said, it’s the dimpled, chewy, herb-topped deepdish focaccia alla genovese that’s most fundamental.

As is traditional, our recipe starts with a sponge—a mixture of flour, yeast, and water that ferments for at least 6 hours before it’s added to the bulk dough.

The sponge helped develop gluten (which gives breads structure and chew), depth of flavour, and a hint of tang.

Rather than knead the dough, we simply used a series of gentle folds, which developed the gluten structure further while also incorporating air for a tender interior crumb. (This method was also helpful because our dough was quite wet and therefore difficult to knead; the more hydrated a bread dough, the more open and bubbly its crumb—a characteristic we were looking for in focaccia—because steam bubbles form and expand more readily.)

Fruity olive oil is a requisite ingredient, but when we added it straight to the dough, it turned the bread dense and cakelike. Instead, we baked the bread in cake pans coated with a couple tablespoons of oil. Be sure to reduce the temperature immediately after putting the loaves in the oven.

Rosemary focaccia

Servings: 12-16 (Makes two 9-inch round loaves) Start to finish: 4 1/2 hours plus 6 hours fermenting time Sponge: • 1/2 cup (2 1/2 ounces) allpurpose flour www.canadianinquirer.net

• 1/3 cup water, room temperature • 1/4 teaspoon instant or rapidrise yeast Dough: • 2 1/2 cups (12 1/2 ounces) allpurpose flour • 1 1/4 cups water, room temperature • 1 teaspoon instant or rapidrise yeast • Kosher salt • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary For the sponge: Stir all ingredients in large bowl with wooden spoon until well combined.

Cover tightly with plastic wrap and let sit at room temperature until sponge has risen and begins to collapse, about 6 hours (sponge can sit at room temperature for up to 24 hours).

For the dough: Stir flour, water, and yeast into sponge with wooden spoon until well combined.

Cover bowl tightly with plastic and let dough rest for 15 minutes.

Stir 2 teaspoons salt into dough with wooden spoon until thoroughly incorporated, about 1 minute. Cover bowl tightly with plastic and let dough rest for 30 minutes.

Using greased bowl scraper (or rubber spatula), fold dough over itself by gently lifting and folding edge of dough toward middle.

Turn bowl 45 degrees and fold dough again; repeat turning bowl and folding dough 6 more times (total of 8 folds). Cover tightly with plastic and let rise for 30 minutes. Repeat folding and rising. Fold dough again, then cover bowl tightly with plastic and let dough rise until nearly doubled in size, 30 minutes to 1 hour.

One hour before baking, adjust oven rack to upper-middle

position, place baking stone on rack, and heat oven to 500 F. Coat two 9-inch round cake pans with 2 tablespoons oil each. Sprinkle each pan with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Transfer dough to lightly floured counter and dust top with flour. Divide dough in half and cover loosely with greased plastic. Working with 1 piece of dough at a time (keep remaining piece covered), shape into 5-inch round by gently tucking under edges.

Place dough rounds seam side up in prepared pans, coat bottoms and sides with oil, then flip rounds over. Cover loosely with greased plastic and let dough rest for 5 minutes.

Using your fingertips, gently press each dough round into corners of pan, taking care not to tear dough. (If dough resists stretching, let it relax for 5 to 10 minutes before trying to stretch it again.) Using fork, poke surface of dough 25 to 30 times, popping any large bubbles.

Sprinkle 1 tablespoon rosemary evenly over top of each loaf, cover loosely with greased plastic, and let dough rest until slightly bubbly, about 10 minutes.

Place pans on baking stone and reduce oven temperature to 450 F. Bake until tops are golden brown, 25 to 30 minutes, rotating pans halfway through baking. Let loaves cool in pans for 5 minutes. Remove loaves from pans and transfer to wire rack. Brush tops with any oil remaining in pans and let cool for 30 minutes. Serve warm or at room temperature. ■ Nutrition information per serving: 158 calories; 45 calories from fat; 5 g fat (1 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 81 mg sodium; 24 g carbohydrate; 1 g fiber; 0 g sugar; 3 g protein.

39

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2019

Get the latest News & Updates

read daily news from Philippines, Canada & the World www.canadianinquirer.net The one and only daily Filipino-Canadian live news

www.canadianinquirer.net

40

FEBRUARY 15, 2019

www.canadianinquirer.net

FRIDAY