Philippine Canadian Inquirer Issue #1

NEWS INSIDE

Corona’s and Carpio’s Assets ( On page 15 )

Floyd Mayweather Jr. is Plan A for Manny- Bob Arum ( On page 16 )

Toronto group sends relief to Washistricken Philippines ( On page 18 )

The Senate has spared the family of Chief Justice Renato Corona from appearing in the Senate as witnesses.

This stolen shot of the newly appointed Chief Justice posing for a souvenir photo with his family using then President Arroyo’s portrait as background was taken on May 17, 2010, after Corona’s oath taking in Malacanang.

(INQUIRER PHOTO)

Corona not the only one on trial

BY MICHAEL LIM UBAC - Philippine Daily Inquirer IT WOULD seem that Chief Justice Renato Corona is not the only one on trial at the Senate. Lawyers Juan Edgardo Angara Jr., Karen Jimeno and Valentina Cruz realize that their participation in a politically charged exercise like an impeachment trial could make or unmake their legal careers.

But the three have plunged head-on into the process, taking on the role of spokespersons for this historic clash among the three separate but equal branches of government.

Angara, the Aurora representative whose father is a senator-judge, is a spokesperson for the prosecution, Jimeno speaks for the defense and Cruz is the official mouthpiece of the impeachment court.

Although they are seen as having

antagonistic roles, the three have many similarities insofar as their legal background is concerned. For one, all three are alumni of the University of the Philippines College of Law. Angara and Jimeno both obtained their master’s degrees from the prestigious Harvard Law School in the United States, and both are currently teaching at the Centro Escolar University School of Law and Jurisprudence.

Angara teaches legal technique, while the much younger Jimeno teaches transportation law. Cruz is the Senate legal counsel and is part of the Senate Secretariat headed by Secretary Emma Reyes.

STUFF OF LAWYERS’ DREAMS “I think all lawyers want to be involved in the big issues of the day. That’s the stuff that

Bell TV

lawyers’ dreams are made of. As a lawyer you want to be involved in questions of policy, of law, and what bigger question is there than the impeachment of a Chief Justice?” said Angara, who turns 40 this year.

Filipino Plaza, a landscape park for Filipinos in Vancouver, British Colombia ( On page 24 )

LIFESTYLE

Angara believes that the intersection of law, politics and justice is displayed in full array in a political exercise like an impeachment trial.

He thinks that the impeachment can make or unmake the careers of protagonists in this historic battle between Corona and President Aquino and his allies.

“No. 1 is the career of Chief Justice Corona.

Obviously it will not make his career if he’s impeached,” said Angara.

A Healthy Change ( On page 38 )

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TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 2

January 2012

A Message from the Premier Congratulations on the launch of the Philippine Canadian Inquirer. I know a lot of time and effort went into setting the goals and objectives for the publication and I want to commend everyone involved in this significant accomplishment. Thanks to your hard work, readers in Vancouver, Toronto, Winnipeg, Calgary, and Edmonton will be able to turn to this valuable resource to read about current affairs in Canada and in the Philippines.

The Philippine Canadian Inquirer will not only serve as a medium to help readers to stay informed about issues that matter to them, but it will also help to enhance a greater sense of community among Filipino-Canadians. I wish you all the best in your endeavours to provide an enlightening and engaging newspaper in the coming years.

Sincerely,

Christy Clark Premier

Province of British Columbia Office of the Premier www.gov.bc.ca

PO Box 9041 Stn Prov Gov Victoria BC V8W 9E1

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News-Phils

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012

Corona ...continued from A1 As to whether his role as a prosecution spokesperson would help him in his political career, he said: “Perhaps.”

Angara said he opted to be a spokesperson instead of joining the prosecution panel to spare his father, Sen. Edgardo Angara, from criticisms arising from the latter’s role as a senator-judge.

He said he relished the thought of being personally involved in a political exercise in which he could make a constitutionally sanctioned process like impeachment relevant and understandable to the man on the street.

“More than anything I want to successfully communicate the message of the impeachment team to the public, which is that all public officials are accountable no matter how high we are,” he said.

“Justices, especially the Chief Justice, must be held to a higher standard of integrity and probity,” he said.

POSTPONED HONEYMOON Jimeno said she accepted the invitation from Corona’s lawyers to join the defense team because after reading the verified complaint and grounds for impeachment, “it didn’t seem to me that there was basis for the impeachment complaint.”

She has taken on the job pro bono and has even postponed her honeymoon for it. Jimeno was wed to an American investment banker early this month.

She considers it a “privilege” to have been given an opportunity “to take a stand for my principles and to stand behind the judicial department.”

According to Jimeno, the biggest consideration for her “was the negative effect that the impeachment may have on a judicial department as a whole. I’m not just concerned about the current Chief Justice, but the future chief justices and other justices of the Supreme Court who may be subjected to an abuse of the impeachment process.”

Asked if she thought Corona was innocent of the charges, she said: “I don’t think I’m competent to decide on that. We’re still at the beginning of the trial, we have yet to see what evidence the prosecution has, but I do believe that every person has a right to prove their innocence and be protected from a trial by publicity,” she said.

Every accused has a right to due process, which involves notice of charges and right to be heard in court, the young lawyer said.

“Definitely, the law is neutral and should be impartial, so regardless of where you stand, you should always apply the law,” she said.

Jimeno appears ready for a public backlash from being seen as defending the unpopular Corona.

“That was a concern that was raised to me by people who are close to me, but as far as I’m concerned I’m not fighting for a specific person. I’m fighting for my belief that the rule of law should be upheld and the independence and integrity of the judiciary should be preserved,” she said.

That was the reason she postponed her honeymoon.

“It was tempting to go on a honeymoon right after my wedding and just go find a highpaying job. But I realized that it would have been a selfish decision,” she said.

PERSONAL SACRIFICES But any sacrifice for the country is worth her time and effort, Jimeno said.

“The laws and the institutions we have right now are the bases for the democratic form of government that we Filipinos continue to be proud of,” she said.

“I think it’s worth it. It’s our responsibility as lawmakers. Impeachment is a responsibility given to lawmakers, and they’re acting on behalf of the people. It’s a big responsibility.

We must take it on,” said Angara.

Does it help that he and Jimeno went to top schools here and abroad?

“It helps us in our knowledge of the law.

Education, I think, helps everybody in whatever respect, whatever career that you pursue,” he said.

Jimeno obtained her law degree in 2005, when Angara had already left UP and Harvard, and completed her master’s degree last year.

She agreed with Angara that the kind of training that a lawyer gets from prestigious universities gives him or her an advantage as it equips them to take on difficult challenges while applying the skills that they have learned.

The participation of lawyers like themselves in the impeachment could elevate the level of discussion, she said.

“I think the bigger challenge really is to be able to bring the discussion to a level that the public will understand. Being learned in the law allows us to understand the technicalities of the impeachment proceedings, but we have to complement that with our ability to communicate to the public what is going on in the impeachment proceedings in a manner that they will understand,” she said.

CONSTITUTIONAL TOOL In Jimeno’s view, the role of the public is to understand what an impeachment proceeding is all about, including its impact on the country and the judiciary as an institution.

“An impeachment will have a negative effect on our country if it’s used as a means to trample on the rights of other people or to destroy the independence of a branch of government like the judiciary,” she said.

But she was careful not to brand the Aquino administration-initiated campaign to oust Corona as unnecessary, saying that impeachable officials like the justices of the high court were not beyond the reach of impeachment.

“It’s constitutional to take out any government official if they commit a grave offense like culpable violation of the Constitution. But it’s a whole different story if it becomes a tool to influence a branch of

government,” Jimeno said.

“If an impeachable official is removed on baseless grounds then it becomes an abused tool to further political interest,” she said.

NOTHING PERSONAL Although pursuing antagonistic roles, Jimeno and Angara are comfortable with each other.

They view the trial as separate from their personal lives, said Jimeno who adds that she and Angara have maintained a very “pleasant” relationship ever since their paths crossed following the transmittal of the articles of impeachment to the Senate last December.

“There’s really no personal animosity. We really don’t feel the rivalry or competition.

But I think it speaks well of the schools where we both came from. It shows how good our training is for us to be both involved in a case like this,” she said.

From the way the trial is proceeding, Angara expects that it will drag on for a “few months.”

He said he was ready for the long haul, while noting that he already had a hoarse voice just a week into the trial, and was losing sleep.

“Everyone calls me up at five in the morning,” he said, referring to the daily radio talk show hosts pestering him on a daily basis since the run-up to the trial.

Publisher Philippine Canadian Inquirer Editorial Manager Laarni de Paula Editorial Consultant J.J. McCullough Contributors: Alfie Vera Mella Annie Gorra Cristie Lane Sotana Gigi Astudillo Jenn Torres Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski Dr. Rizaldy Ferrer Rodel Ramos Shawn Bowden Stella Reyes Victoria Yong Photographer Ryan Ferrer

Jimeno, who also starts receiving phone calls at 5 a.m., said she does not expect the trial to proceed smoothly.

“We don’t know how much evidence the prosecution will present and if their evidence or their manner of presentation is in compliance with the law because failure to comply with the rules of impeachment and of evidence would necessarily give rise to delays,” she said. ■

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TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 4

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FEAST OF THE HOLY CHILD ‘Hidden’ Sto. Niño for 300 years to rise

BY JOCELYN R. UY - Philippine Daily Inquirer More than the flamboyant dancing and merrymaking that every year engulf the streets of Pandacan in honor of the Sto. Niño, this tiny, ancient district in eastern Manila has all the trappings of what its parish priest calls a “Little Nazareth.”

While it is known that its patron saved the town from being crushed by Spanish colonial troops in the 1890s, Pandacan’s story has been overshadowed by the more spectacular tales of the miracles wrought by the Holy Child in other parts of the country, including another old Manila district to the north, Tondo.

But parish priest Fr. Lazaro Abaco believes that after being unknown and “hidden” for hundreds of years, the Sto. Niño de Pandacan will rise and begin to “do its public ministry” come Nov. 23, its 300th anniversary.

“If you look at it with a spiritual eye, it’s just right because if you look at the Nazareth experience, Jesus was hidden for 30 years. In our case, it is 300 years of hidden life of Jesus in Pandacan,” Abaco said in an interview.

A Buling-Buling (vernacular for “polished” or “well-prepared”) dance festival and a solemn High Mass officiated by the new Manila Archbishop Luis Antonio Tagle were held Saturday to kick off Sunday’s Feast of the Sto. Niño, usually marked by far more extravagant parades in other regions of the country.

Sunday’s festivities were part of a string of activities that the parish has prepared in the run-up to its tercentennial anniversary celebrations in November.

FROM ‘LITTLE ITALY’

According to Abaco, the grand occasion will bring to mind how Pandacan—previously depicted as “Little Italy” for its many estuaries leading into the Pasig River—became a “Little Nazareth” to a centuries-old wooden image of the Holy Child that was found among clumps of vegetation by a muddy pool where carabaos wallowed.

As the story is told, sometime in the 17th century a group of children playing in the sleepy barrio suddenly spotted a mahogany image of the Sto. Niño among some pandan reeds that thrived near a waterhole.

In his book, “The Child of the Pandan Reeds: The Spiritual Journey of the Santo Niño de Pandacan Parish,” Abaco quoted a passage from a narrative by historian Ricardo Mendoza: “The children were startled and [they] stopped playing, then admiringly gazed at the small and beautiful image. In a moment, they all felt terrified, and some knelt and prayed because it crossed their mind that this may be the image of the Holy Child.”

PLAUSIBLE EXPLANATION

According to Abaco, there could only be one plausible explanation for how the image ended up there: it may have been part of the cargo carried by a ship plying the galleon trade between Manila and Acapulco, Mexico, during the Spanish colonial period.

A storm that often disturbs the Pacific Ocean may have sunk or destroyed the galleon, and the currents may have swept the image into the Pasig River leading to one of its arteries in Pandacan, which was then part of the parish of Sampaloc.

“The discovery of the little statue of Sto. Niño was only the start in the train of miraculous happenings,” Abaco wrote.

Over the years, some elders of Sampaloc attempted to transfer the image to their parish church following the discovery. But strangely, the image always found its way back, reappearing at the very site where it was discovered.

After this peculiar reappearance, residents began to revere the site, building a nipa hut to enshrine the miraculous image. The water hole frequented by carabaos was eventually turned into a well, where a natural spring thrives to this day.

Eventually, the Franciscan friars and the townsfolk had a stone chapel built on the hallowed spot, also incorporating the well. This was finished in time for the formal creation of the parish of Pandacan in 1712, when the district was ecclesiastically separated from the Loreto Church of Sampaloc.

HEALING WATER

The original stone chapel was destroyed by powerful earthquakes in the 1800s. The renovated structure and the well, which existed until the early years following World War II, had to be demolished because of the expansion of Jesus Street into a major road.

It was revived sometime between 1951 and 1971 when Msgr.

Guillermo Mendoza was the parish priest.

Though parishioners continue to believe that the well is a source of healing water, the parish has advised them not to drink it after the water tested positive for impurities.

To avoid further contamination, Abaco had a replica of the well constructed in the inner part of the church property near the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, redirecting the flow of the water from the original spring.

The wooden image of the Sto. Niño remained enshrined in the stone chapel even after the church that took nearly 30 years to build was finished in 1760.

It was only transferred permanently to the church in 1906 when the church compound and the convent, taken over by revolutionary priests of the Iglesia Filipino Independiente (the Philippine Independent Church, more commonly known as the Aglipayan Church) in 1902, were legally reclaimed by the Archdiocese of Manila.

MIRACLES

Aside from the miraculous healing among sick devotees and the protection the Holy Child had offered to Pandacan during the revolution, the Sto. Niño was also believed to have performed other wonders in the town.

When a massive fire struck near Pandacan in 1911, a priest placed the image on a church window facing the sea of flames.

Suddenly, the wind changed its course, saving the town from what could have been a tragedy.

The image is also known to have averted an explosion after troops of the United States Armed Forces in the Far East (Usaffe) supposedly ignited oil tanks in Pandacan before retreating to Bataan on Dec. 18, 1941. It also reportedly healed a boy named Mark of a threatened blindness in April 2002. “[But] most often, the Sto. Niño comes to us as He is, a child in His way—unobtrusive, ordinary, simple, hidden in the guise of a little boy,” said Abaco.

He said residents often spot a curly-haired and dark-skinned boy, his plump face smeared with dirt, roaming the streets of Pandacan—recalling the wooden image caked in mud when it was found among the pandan reeds 300 years ago.

The boy, who frequents the church patio, is seen mingling with people and talks to them as if he knew what was going on in their lives. “Residents believe that this little child is their beloved patron, the Sto. Niño,” said Abaco.

Aside from these stories, the Holy Child is also believed to have healed the age-old rift between the Iglesia Filipiniana Independiente (IFI) and Catholic parishes in the area.

ANOTHER ICON EXISTS

Unknown to many, one of the festering issues between the two church communities was the existence of another icon of the Sto. Niño—an ivory image brought by the Franciscans and installed as the patron of the IFI church in Pandacan.

“Both community of believers, the Catholic and the Aglipayans, [were] vocal about their claim that their image of the Sto. Niño was ‘the original,’ implying that the other image is not authentic nor worthy of veneration by Christian believers of the town,” noted Abaco.

Somehow, the argument has been settled with this piece of history: at one point, when devotees did not want the wooden image of the Child Jesus to be removed from the stone chapel, the ivory statue was installed as the centerpiece icon in the main church after it was built in 1760.

(The IFI, founded by a Catholic priest and revolutionary named Gregorio Aglipay gained many adherents by exposing the venality of the Catholic clergy and by canonizing heroes

of the Philippine revolution. After breaking from Rome in 1902 and a five-year campaign to take over Catholic Church properties in the Philippines, the IFI acquired nearly one-half of Church properties in the country. In 1906, the Supreme Court ruled that all properties of the Roman Catholic Church that had been occupied by Aglipay’s followers had to be returned to the Church.) The ivory statue was later installed at the IFI Sto. Niño Church after its priests were expelled from all Roman Catholic churches following the Supreme Court order.

A caretaker, an IFI adherent who grew attached to the ivory image, was said to have brought it with her at the time of the expulsion, which prompted the IFI priests to build a separate chapel, which still stands today on Central Street.

“Clearly then, both the wooden and the ivory images are ‘original icons,’” said Abaco.

The hostility between the two churches ended in 2007, when both agreed to jointly participate, for the first time, in the colorful Buling-Buling festival and grand procession held yearly on the eve of the Feast of the Sto. Niño.

“Before that [turning point], we made sure that our respective parades didn’t run into each other or else there will be a commotion … you’ll see sacristans of the two churches hitting each other with their candles,” Abaco recalled with a chuckle.

TWO ICONS REUNITED

But following the reconciliation, the Buling-Buling festival has always been an anticipated event among devotees, wherein they witness the meeting of the two icons of the Sto. Niño like two brothers reunited after being estranged for centuries by war and religion, said the priest.

Happy about the reunion, the small district has been abuzz with stories about the sight of two children—one dark and the other fair—playing in the neighborhood in the early evening, noted Abaco in his book.

“When twilight gives way to the night, the two young boys disappear into the dark … townsfolk surmise that the toddlers are the ivory image of the Sto. Niño enshrined in the IFI church and the dark image in the high altar of the Roman Catholic church perhaps echoing their longing to pray and worship as children, Romanos and Aglipayans, of the same God,” he wrote. ■

Casino robber caught while fleeing with loot in Pasig

BY NIÑA CALLEJA - Philippine Daily Inquirer Roving policemen who were at the right place at the right time foiled a lone robber’s attempt to steal P125,000 in cash from a casino in Pasig City at around 3 a.m. Tuesday.

Rafael Lourdes Reyes, a 43-year-old resident of Antipolo City, was arrested as he was fleeing from the crime scene.

Senior Superintendent Jessie Cardona, Pasig police chief, said the robbery took place at E-Games Online Casino owned by Frecy Nob on Meralco Avenue, Ortigas Center.

Earlier, Reyes entered the casino and played several games. However, he later took out a gun, pointed it at the establishment’s security guard and announced the heist.

He then ordered the cashier to empty the cash register, which contained around P125,000 in cash. But as he was leaving, security guards asked for help from a passing police car. Senior Inspector Joselito Brion, Pasig City Police Community Precinct 1 commander, said it was easy to catch the thief because he was on foot. ■

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TUESDAY OCTOBER 4, 2011

Metro News

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In Baguio City, fight for survival of the pine tree

BY VINCENT CABREZA - Philippine Daily Inquirer BAGUIO CITY—People who were born, raised and have decided to live in Baguio City will always fight for the survival of the pine tree, which has set apart the summer capital from the rest of the country for more than 100 years.

Grade school pupils are taught from the onset that the pine tree is sensitive, so damaging its roots or relocating a mature tree would cause it almost irreversible harm. Catholic nun and teacher Lulu Dulay led some of these battles. She spoke against corporate greed in the classrooms as soon as word spread that the forested Camp John Hay would be privatized in early 1992.

People, who have objected to any form of tree-cutting, have been labeled as antidevelopment, “when all they wanted to do was change the minds of big business and of the government so they can introduce development projects that spare our remaining trees,” said former Mayor Braulio Yaranon, who led many protests to preserve Baguio’s tree cover and forests. Historically, however, community activism was unheard of in this laid back, multicultural and tolerant city. But there were circumstances outlined in the following timeline, which helped change people’s minds: 1988. Residents are made aware that its potable water supply would need to be rationed because its remaining watersheds are no longer enough to sustain its aquifer, accounts documented by weekly newspapers like the Baguio Midland Courier and the defunct Gold Ore show.

1989. Baguio’s representative, lawyer Honorato Aquino, is tipped off about plans to convert parts of the city’s Busol watershed into a Japanese-funded golf course. This convinces local leaders to start a Baguio reforestation campaign through the Baguio Regreening Movement (BRM).

1990. City Ordinance No. 5 series of 1990 is enacted through the BRM’s campaign to penalize people for harming any pine tree in Baguio. John Padua, a city forest ranger in the last 30 years, says it is this ordinance that helped build a tree-protective consciousness that pervades today.

1993. Camp John Hay takes centerstage when the United States relinquished its former military bases to the Philippine government, which decided to lease its development to the Taiwanese-led Tuntex (B.V.I.) Co. Ltd. (Tuntex) and the Asiaworld Internationale Group Inc. (Asiaworld). Residents form the John Hay Alternative Coalition (JHAC) to draft an environmentally friendly counter proposal for John Hay development.

THE RESULT: “What seemed like a futile exercise by residents against Tuntex resulted in the company’s aborting high impact development plans in Club John Hay [in 1994] as seen in the headlines,” according to a timeline published by the Baguio Midland Courier.

1995. Not all protests are conducted on the streets. The JHAC battles government head-on through a Supreme Court case questioning the conversion of forested Camp John Hay into a Special Economic Zone. The case is championed in court by lawyer Marvic Leonen, now head of the government peace panel negotiating with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front.

THE RESULT: The Supreme Court rules that the creation of the John Hay Special Economic Zone is legitimate. But it says Malacañang erred in granting it tax privileges, as well as the other economic zones administered by the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA). The ruling forces government to change the law governing BCDA economic zones.

2001-2002. Plans to build SM City Baguio lead to protests when residents found out it would displace hundreds of pine trees on Luneta Hill, the former site of the Pines Hotel.

THE RESULT: SM Development Corp. proceeds to build the shopping mall, opening it to the public in 2003.

2008. SM draws protests because of a plan to introduce a condominium into a forested lot owned by the Government Service Insurance System, which is near the Baguio Convention Center.

THE RESULT: The project is withdrawn following a series of protest rallies mounted by residents, students, schools and churches.

2008. The Philippine Economic Zone Authority (Peza) draws public ire because the expansion of aircraft parts manufacturer Moog Controls Inc. requires the displacement of nearly 500 pine trees at Camp John Hay. THE RESULT: Peza transfers half of the trees through the process called earth-balling.

2012. For the third time, SM is targeted by public protests because its proposed expansion would affect more than 100 trees, among them 97 mature pine trees. A protest rally is scheduled for Jan. 20. ■

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 6

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Out-of-town groups best 48 dance contingents in Sinulog

BY CRIS EVERT B. LATO - Philippine Daily Inquirer Two out-of-town groups bested 48 other dance contingents in the Sinulog Grand Parade on Sunday.

Tribu Lingganay of Alang-Alang town in Leyte won in the Free Interpretation (FI) category, while Culturang Placereño with Masbate Dance Company of Placer, Masbate, bagged the top prize in the Sinulog-Based (SB) category. Each received P1 million in cash prize.

Nestor Jardin, FI chair of the board of judges, said Tribu Lingganay won first place because its performance was fast paced and unpredictable.

The contingent from Alang-Alang town, Leyte, used loud colors in their props but used neutral colors in their costumes, which helped deliver an outstanding performance, said Jardin, former president and artistic director of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

Tribu Himag-ulaw, also from Placer, Masbate, emerged second in the FI category followed by Karatong Festival of Dulag town in Leyte, third; Lumad Basakanon of Barangay (village) Basak-San Nicolas in Cebu City, fourth and Toledo National High Vocational School of Cebu, fifth.

Placer’s fresh concept of venerating the Holy Child Jesus was the main factor for grabbing the top prize in the SB category, said head judge, Larry Gabao.

“We saw the emotions of the dancers and how they relate to the entire production,” said Gabao, president of the Philippine Folk Dance Society.

Culturang Placereño’s win spoiled the attempt of Sinanduloy Cultural Troupe from Tangub City, Misamis Occidental, to grab the championship crown for the third straight year.

Sinanduloy, however, emerged second in the SB category followed by the City of Carcar, third; Sta. Catalina town in Negros Oriental, fourth; and Abellana National High School in Cebu City, fifth.

Culturang Placereño also won two special awards: best in costume and best in musicality.

Meantime, Carcar City won first place in the street dancing category for their consistent energy from start to finish, said Danny Marshall, associate artistic director of Douglas Nierras Powerdance.

Like Placer and Alang-Alang, Carcar won P1 million cash prize.

Second place in the street dancing category was Sinanduloy City, while the third place went to Culturang Placereño.

At least 12,000 people gathered at the Cebu City Sport’s Complex on Sunday to watch the final performance of 50 contingents—23 in SB and 27 in FI. But there were more people outside the complex. Police said at least three million people were at the city streets either to watch the Grand Parade or join the revelry to celebrate the feast of the Sto. Niño. ■

Palawan recall campaign to proceed

BY JEROME ANING - Philippine Daily Inquirer The Commission on Elections will proceed with verifying more than 150,000 signatures gathered for a campaign to remove Palawan Gov. Abraham Kahlil Mitra in a recall process, telling the 30 supporters of the governor who rallied at the Comelec yesterday to claim irregularities in the recall move that their word cannot be taken at face value. “When a party claims that the signatories are not residents [of Palawan], this cannot be taken on his word,” said James Jimenez, Comelec spokesperson. “That’s why verification is necessary so that it could be seen if the allegations are correct and for the checking of the signatories against Comelec’s registry of voters,” he told report-

ers. The 30 supporters of Mitra said during the rally that Palawan voters who signed the recall petition were deceived into believing that they were signing a petition against mining. Cesar Ventura, head of the group Kilusang Love Malampaya (KLM) that gathered the signatures, said Mitra’s group should allow the recall process to move. “Those who signed the petition knew what they were signing and for what purpose,” Ventura said in a statement. “Let the verification process begin, no more beating around the bush,” said Ventura.

HASTY DECISION According to Jimenez, the Comelec regional office should start the verification process as soon as possible. He said the verification should be completed before May 13 because the

law prohibits the holding of recall elections a year before the next general elections, which are scheduled in 2013. Bert Gabo, speaking for the group Palaweños for Good Governance which rallied at the Comelec, accused the Comelec of hastiness in deliberating on the recall petition. It was highly suspect, said Gabo.

GABO SAID MITRA WAS DENIED DUE PROCESS. Jimenez, however, said the next step that the Comelec would take was to form a verification committee because the process has to be finished before May 13. Jimenez said instead of holding a rally at the Comelec, the group of 30 supporters of Mitra should instead monitor the verification process to prove their claim that the gathering of signatures had been done irregularly. ■

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TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 8

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KNOWING ORIGINAL IBALOI SETTLEMENTS THRU GOLD TRADING

BY ROLAND RABANG - Philippine Daily Inquirer There was a village in Ibaloi lore called “Tonglo” where the trading of gold was said to be brisk and thriving. An account by Michael Armand Canilao in his book, “Of Gold, Spanish Conquistadors and Ibaloi Generational Memory” (Cordillera Studies Center, University of the Philippines-Baguio, 2011), has it that a Spanish punitive expedition in 1759 razed this village, killing hundreds of Ibaloi who fought the invaders. This event, Canilao writes, had come to be known as the “Tonglo Massacre.”

But apart from a general direction of the place given by Spanish friar named Vivar in 1755 as “four leguas (24 km) east of Cava (La Union),” no one exactly knows where Tonglo is, only that it is vaguely recalled in Ibaloi oral traditions.

The event’s discussion is regarded as “taboo … to mask the absence or lack of credible evidence that such a massacre really took place,” says Canilao.

The evidence could be surfaced through archaeology, suggests Canilao, a senior lecturer in the archaeological studies program and Center for International Studies of the University of the Philippines-Diliman. “Perhaps [it] can offer a breakthrough in confirming if this massacre indeed took place or not,” he says.

The important consideration is where to begin the archaeological survey because while Vivar described a general direction of its location, the place could be anywhere in Benguet because Tonglo no longer exists in the contemporary listing of Benguet towns and villages. Canilao says what can be deduced from

Vivar’s description is that Tonglo would fall in the vicinity of present day Barangay Irisan in Baguio City. Could it be that Tonglo is today’s Barangay Monglo of Sablan, Benguet, a direct artery to Irisan? Canilao says “there could be a big margin of error in Vivar’s estimate of Tonglo’s location at the time [because] it was unlikely that [he] traveled on a straight line.”

peopling of Benguet began as lowland dwellers, particularly from Pangasinan, followed the trails of Agno and Amburayan rivers to the eastern hinterlands. Canilao suggests that gold is central to Ibaloi ethnohistory. However, the latter alone could not establish a pattern that links gold to present-day Ibaloi settlements.

Canilao, however, believes that despite the presence of “background noise,” oral tradition is still important in the project that is the subject of his book, which is to trace the origins of the peopling of Benguet through the trading of gold.

The engagement of Ibaloi in gold trading, he says, dates back to precontact with Spanish colonizers because of lowland demand for gold bartered with “fish paste (bagoong), wax, honey, rice, salt, pigs, cows, carabaos, blankets, mats and abel (Ilocano cloth).”

He says this is because oral traditions’ earliest recollections point to the 18th and 19th centuries where wetland agriculture was already prevalent in Benguet and where later generations sought to interpret as happening at an earlier time. Separating “background noise” from facts, Canilao had engaged in “surface archaeology” in selected places identified in ethnohistory to be the original settlement areas of Ibaloi in Benguet. These are in Chuyo (Green Valley, Tuba), Palaypay (Pongayan, Kapangan) and Imbose (Kabayan). He says the surface method, which investigates grid areas that were plowed through, addresses questions on “human population history to expand settlement patterns and land use databases.”

The value of gold, on the other hand, was discovered through contact with pan-Southeast Asian seafarers, including the Chinese who exchanged gold for porcelain jars with dragon designs, which were valued for their role in rituals.

Canilao seeks to unearth these artifacts through the discipline of archaeology, and by extension explain the establishment of Benguet settlements using the evidence of “material culture.”

In his book, he starts the inquiry by looking into oral accounts written by scholars as ethnohistory, which suggests that the

NPA strength declining, says military

BY DORIA PAZZIBUGAN - Philippine Daily Inquirer LISTEN

THE MILITARY said the armed strength of the communist rebels wentdownslightly in the first year of implementation of the new counter insurgency plan dubbed “Bayanihan.”

The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) estimated that the New People’s Army (NPA), the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines, had 4,043 armed members by the end of 2011, or 8 percent fewer than the military’s estimate of 4,384 armed insurgents at the end of 2010.

The AFP also reported that last year, communist rebels killed 100 security forces, destroyed P1.2–billion worth of business properties and government infrastructure, and got some P300 million through extortion.The rebels staged more criminal acts to back up their extortion activities than major attacks on government troops, the AFP said in a report.

Thenpa’smost significant attack last year was the simultaneous assault on three mining companies in Claver, Surigao del Norte, in October. The military said the companies were attacked because they refused the NPA’S extortion demands. “This reflects the insurgents’ significant shift from projecting itself as a guerrilla organization to a criminal group with extortion as its main fund-generating activity,” the AFP said.

It said the rebels had resorted to extortion due to their declining mass support.

“This has led them to resort to force and intimidation to coerce ‘soft targets,’ including private firms and individuals— even poor folks in far-flung villages—to give in to their demands,” the AFP said.

The AFP noted a decline in NPA raids and ambushes on government troops since 2008.

Last year, the military recorded 447 “Npa-initiated violent incidents” which was 11 percent less than the 501 recorded attacks in 2010.

Athird or 142 of the attacks were considered criminal activities such as murder, kidnapping, bombing and arson to back up their extortion activities, the military said.

The military said only 15 percent or 69 incidents were considered major tactical offensives like an ambush or a raid.

The AFP said the rebels avoided direct confrontation with government troops and preyed only on militiamen and unarmed military personnel.

While 100 security forces were killed in rebel attacks last year, this was lower than the 184 casualties in the previous year.

Of those killed, AFP members accounted for 56, which was 38 percent less than the 91 casualties from the military in 2010.

In 21 attacks, the rebels used improvised explosive devices which killed 23 civilians and five soldiers.

“This only proves that they are not only targeting AFP personnel but also innocent civilians and peace-loving citizens,” the AFP said. ■

In the three survey areas, only Chuyo yielded potsherds (pieces of broken pottery), an indication of previous human activity.

Canilao says Palaypay and Imbose “did not show archaeological evidence.” While archaeology did not confirm the ethnohistorical accounts of the original Ibaloi settlements, he says this is not surprising because wetland agriculture already obscured historical time lines in oral traditions, where informants are generally the landed Ibaloi elite called the “baknang.” ■

68-year-old trader loses SUV to thieves

BY NANCY C. CARVAJAL - Philippine Daily Inquirer A 68-year-old businessman lost his sport utility vehicle to two men who took it from him at gunpoint in front of his house in Quezon City on Monday morning, according to a police report.

Police Officer 3 Dennis Telen of the Quezon City Police District (QCPD) identified the victim as Pepito de Leon, a resident of Quirino Highway in Barangay (village) Baesa.

He said De Leon was about to park his car in the garage of his house when two men came out of nowhere and demanded the keys to his gray Mitsubishi Montero with plate number CTP 418. The car theft happened around 7:15 a.m. De Leon told the police that after his usual morning routine of going on a jog, he drove home.

When he got to his house, he briefly alighted from the vehicle to open the gate. But as he was returning to the Montero to maneuver it into the garage, two men appeared and one of them pointed a gun at him. He added that the other took the keys to his SUV and shoved him into the back seat.

Both men then got into the vehicle. They drove around Mindanao Avenue before they dropped him off in Bagong Barrio, Caloocan City. According to the police, the car thieves may have monitored the victim’s movements before the heist because they were obviously familiar with his routine. ■

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TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 10

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‘ILLEGAL’ GOLD MINING IN LEYTE, SAMAR PROBED

BY JOEY GABIETA - Philippine Daily Inquirer TACLOBAN CITY—The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) in Eastern Visayas is investigating the reported illegal gold mining activities in Southern Leyte and in Eastern Samar. MGB Regional Director Roger De Dios said they have to look into these illegal mining activities as these could trigger landslides just like what happened in Compostela Valley province.

De Dios said a report received by his office showed there were illegal gold mining activities in San Ricardo and Saint Bernard, both in Southern Leyte, and in Balangiga, Eastern Samar. Balangiga Mayor Viscuso De Lira said he had informed the MGB office about gold extraction in his town. De Lira, in a phone interview, said gold panning in his town were located in barangays (villages) Cag-olango and Guinmaayohan, both upstream

villages. Cag-olango is about 9 kilometers away from the town center with more than 600 residents while Guinmaayohan has over 1,500 residents and is 12 km from the town proper. “I sought assistance from the MGB as to the best way to address this concern. I have yet to make a move like for a possible relocation of the people in these areas,” De Lira said. He said he could not just order the people there to relocate as it would also mean economic dislocation for them. Residents in these villages rely on farming as their main livelihood source but with a high price of gold at P1,800 per ounce, there is now a scramble among the people there to conduct the gold panning, the town mayor said.

Given the chance, he said he would like to see the people in these areas to be relocated to a safer place considering the danger of

landslides. “That (landslide) is a possibility considering that Eastern Visayas has been identified as among the country’s landslideprone regions and with our present weather condition,” De Dios said.

For several days now, the region has been experiencing heavy rains, a weather condition that could trigger landslide or flash flood incidents.

The MGB-8 has listed 2,531 barangays across the region considered “susceptible” to landslide incidents. “Although miningrelated activities is part of the supervisory functions of the MGB, they (local governments) should help us especially those small-scale activities like gold panning,” De Dios said, adding that the local police could help stop the illegal mining.■

DOT to make tourism expansion more fun

BY RIZA T. OLCHONDRA - Philippine Daily Inquirer THE DEPARTMENT of Tourism said on Wednesday that loans and incentives are being lined up for tourism establishments that need to expand their operations and services. This is part of efforts to make travel “more fun” in the Philippines, as the country’s new brand campaign goes.

The DOT has set a target of attracting an aggregate of 10 million foreign tourists to the Philippines by 2016 to help curb poverty, Undersecretary Daniel Corpuz said.

Rolando Canizal, director of the DOT office of tourism planning, research and information management, said yesterday that tourism entrepreneurs can apply for incentives with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA).

TIEZA, an attached agency of the DOT, can give both fiscal and nonfiscal incentives.

Nueva Ecija town features ‘tambo’ in patron saint’s feast

BY ARMAND GALANG - Philippine Daily Inquirer SAN ANTONIO, Nueva Ecija—In this town, residents are proving that it is indeed more fun sweeping in the Philippines. Students clad in costumes made from walis tambo (reed broom) went around town in a street dancing competition to promote the product during the feast of San Antonio Abad (St. Anthony the Abbot) on Friday. The dancers’ costumes were decorated with tiger grass panicles. Some used bamboo sticks (which are used as broom handles), while others used bonding wires or plastic strings to make the walis tambo stand out in the festival.

“Really, it’s more fun in this part of the country where people go to the streets and witness the excellent performance of our students in street dancing,” said Dr. Angelita Salonga-Esquivel, hermana (cochair) of the celebration.

With many parts of San Antonio (population: 67,500) acting as catch basin during the rainy season, tiger grass, the material used in making brooms, grow in abundance, particularly in swampy areas. Noting the potentials of the industry as an alternative livelihood for locals, aside from agriculture, the Department of Trade and Industry and the town government identified walis tambo as its One Town One Product (OTOP). Brigida Pili, DTI provincial director, said Mayor Arvin Salonga and the

local government, the DTI and other agencies provide technical and financial support for upgrading the product. While the street dancing competition was ongoing, several stalls sold walis tambo around the town’s gymnasium. The brooms were labeled and marked to show these were made in San Antonio.

Marisol Pablo, a broom maker and vendor, said they sell their product from P80 to P300, depending on the size. She said local broom makers could assure the buyers of the quality of their products because they have been trained well. Esquivel said the town government has tapped the help of the private sector to improve the industry which, she said, is creating jobs for San Antonio residents. “It started as a very small household business but it’s now growing,” she said. “[Broom making] is fun and it’s our hope,” Pablo said. Armando Cruz, town budget officer, said the industry was featured in the town’s feast because “everybody knows its potentials and we all support it.” Msgr.

Felipe Dayao, parish priest here, said broom making has been a worthwhile activity among the youth. “Before, when I was asked of my parish I would answer, ‘In San Antonio,’ and they would again ask, ‘Where is that?’ Today, when I say San Antonio, they will say, ‘The home of broom,’” Dayao said.■

“Fiscal incentives include tax holidays and duty-free importation of materials and equipment. For example, a small hotel can expand and import an elevator dutyfree. For nonfiscal incentives, they may want to hire a foreign chef, say a Japanese chef, to upgrade services and TIEZA can enable them to do that,” Canizal said. On loans, the agency is talking to TIEZA, the Development Bank of the Philippines and other institutions that can offer loans to owners of tourism establishments ranging from family-owned bed and breakfasts to boutique hotels and even large hotels, Canizal said.

“The DBP used to have a window especially for small establishments and now they are thinking of reopening it so we are talking to them,” Canizal said.

DOT is also developing guidelines for mandatory accreditation for all types of tourism establishments. Large establishments and most medium-sized establishments are expected be accredited this year. Small establishments will be phased in starting this year, considering their limited manpower and resources to go through the accreditation process, Canizal said. Small and niche tourism establishments are especially important in island-destinations while big hotels are much needed in landlocked beach areas like the Ilocos region, Zambales province and Iloilo province, said consultant Narzalina Z. Lim of Asia Pacific Projects Inc. About 17 percent of all tourism establishments in the Philippines are on expansion mode until 2014, Canizal said, citing data from the National Statistics Office survey in 2009. The number of domestic tourists alone is expected to reach 33 million by 2014 from 2.8 million in 2010, Lim said. ■

The Hon. Alice Wong Member of Parliament for Richmond Minister of State (Seniors) Hill Office: 112 Confederation Building Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6 Tel: 613-995-2021 Fax: 613-995-2174 Constituency Office: 360- 5951 No.3 Road Richmond, British Columbia V6X 2E3 Tel: 604-775-5790 Fax: 604-775-6291 GREETINGS

January 20th, 2012 I am delighted to extend my warmest greetings to the Philippine Canadian Inquirer and your readers on the occasion of the launch of your newspaper.

Canada is a country built with the contributions of people from many backgrounds, and we embrace the richness and diversity of our many cultural communities. It is from this that we derive our strength as a nation. Community-based media such as the Philippine Canadian Inquirer provides an important service to our Filipino community by providing them with a voice of their own. Through these efforts, you are contributing to Canada’s culture; a mosaic of many different colours, backgrounds, and traditions.

As the Member of Parliament for Richmond, I thank you all for contributing to this beautiful cultural mosiac that Canada can proudly call its own. May the years ahead bring you great success.

Yours sincerely,

The Hon. Alice Wong, P.C., MP

News-Phils GAMBLING DENS IN AYALA ALABANG PROBED Police asked to check reports from residents

BY MIKO MORELOS - Philippine Daily Inquirer Authorities are verifying reports that several multimillion-peso houses in the exclusive Ayala Alabang Village in Muntinlupa City—where narcotics agents have raided three medium-scale drug laboratories in the past two weeks—are being used as gambling dens.

Senior Superintendent Ramiro Bauza, Muntinlupa police chief, said that he had been tasked by Mayor Aldrin San Pedro to coordinate with local officials to review the subdivision’s security measures following the discovery of laboratories involved in the manufacture of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, in the area. “We are looking into the report, particularly into this new information on gambling dens,” Bauza told the Inquirer in a phone interview Sunday. “As of now, we are in the process of reviewing the security protocol of the village.”

Earlier, San Pedro expressed alarm over the series of raids conducted by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents in the area, considering the stringent security measures being enforced in the exclusive subdivision. According to the mayor, the measures may have been used by drug lords to their advantage.

San Pedro’s spokesman and city information chief, Omar Acosta, told the Inquirer that the mayor had also heard reports about the alleged operations of gambling dens in the area, prompting the latter to order the police to conduct an investigation.

“But initially, the mayor wants to have the security measures at Ayala Alabang placed under review, because obviously, the criminals are using this in their favor,” Acosta said.

Several residents—who spoke to the Inquirer on the condition of anonymity due to safety concerns—claimed that some houses in Ayala Alabang that had been rented out to foreigners seem devoid of any sign of life during daytime. At night, however, these houses suddenly become beehives of activity.

Another odd thing about those houses was the type of garbage they produced. “The garbage of one house consisted of cigarette butts, bottles of beer and alcoholic beverage and even junk food wrappers,” the resident said. “What kind of family lives on that diet?” This suspicion was backed up by several other residents.

Bauza, who was informed by the Inquirer of the residents’ statements, said that he would bring the matter up when he meets officials of the barangay and village association.

The recent drug raids, on the other hand, did not come as a surprise to some residents who said that these merely confirmed the suspicions they had held since last year.

One told the Inquirer about smelling “a noxious odor, as if something was burning” during the wee hours of the morning.

When the resident asked the security personnel of the village to verify the information, the latter said that everything was all right. In the first raid conducted by PDEA agents on January 6, five Chinese nationals were arrested in a house at 504 Acacia Avenue. Seized during the operation were P15 million worth of drugs. Two more raids conducted on January 13 at 119 Kanlaon St. and 536 Country Club Drive resulted in the seizure of more drugs and laboratory equipment but there were no arrests since the houses had been abandoned.

Authorities said that the houses were medium-sized drug laboratories that could produce P500 million worth of shabu within two to three days. ■

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 12

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MMDA, DOST to install Metro flood warning system

BY JEANNETTE I. ANDRADE - Philippine Daily Inquirer A system initiated by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Science and Technology (DoST) is expected to put in place a six-hour flood warning system in the metropolis aimed at preventing the loss of lives and property during destructive tropical storms and typhoons like “Ondoy” and “Pedring.”

A memorandum of agreement (MOA) signed by the two agencies Tuesday at the MMDA headquarters in Makati City specifies the installation of 38 water level sensors in watersheds and bridges and 18 automatic rain gauges around Metro Manila.

DoST Advanced Science and Technology Institute (Asti) director and engineer Dennis Villorente said the Efficient Flood Control Operation System (Efcos) is intended to gauge rising floodwaters in critical flood-prone areas throughout the country, starting with Metro Manila. “When Ondoy happened, the government realized that there is a need to further strengthen the monitoring system,” he said.

“The system calls for the installation of locally developed water level sensors, the collection of real-time data and archiving of this data so we can make an analysis later,” he added. “Right now the data is being collected every 10 minutes, and this is placed into a central server with a backup system.”

A third component of the system is the flood forecasting model currently being developed with the academe. The last is an on-line data visualization system to help disaster managers in the different local government units.

Villorente said on-line visualization would give local government units an idea of how deep flood waters are in a certain area for them to make the necessary adjustments and decisions. “The water level sensors are installed in a bridge across a river. There are also rain gauges installed in water shed areas. The data is sent through text message,” he said, adding

that a backup system has been set up so data will continue to be transmitted and received at the central server.

“All data is collected, received and processed by the MMDA, and this is also shared with DoST and Pagasa,” Villorente said.

MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, for his part, said: “I hope we can craft a better mechanism to elevate the bar higher in terms of warning the people. Maybe there will come a time that the level of confidence among residents of Marikina, Pasig, those near the Tullahan River, Valenzuela, Malabon, Navotas will be extremely high so we will no longer see a recurrence of what happened in Cagayan de Oro or Iligan City.”

The MMDA chairman said he was also hoping they could learn from their experiences during Typhoons Pedring and Sendong, and getting the communities involved. He added that he was looking forward to an institutionalized mechanism where the different agencies will work as one, emphasizing the difficulties faced by the MMDA, which has been solely tasked to formulate a mitigation and disaster risk reduction program.

DoST Secretary Mario Montejo said the project was in response to the need for a six-hour warning system before a flood can occur in communities along the major river systems, as pointed out by President Aquino.

“Most of the time, 60 percent of the floodwaters in Marikina come from watersheds, particularly from Wawa Dam; 40 percent is surface water surrounding Marikina,” he said, adding that the Efcos would immediately give the six-hour warning.

Montejo said the program will be replicated along the country’s 18 major river systems. A water level sensor is estimated to cost P90,000, while an automatic rain gauge is priced at P35,000. ■

EARLY START FOR DENGUE DRIVE Health dep’t eyes further drop in cases for 2012

BY JOCELYN R. UY - Philippine Daily Inquirer This early, health officials in Metro Manila have already started their campaign against dengue in a bid to further drive down the number of cases in the metropolis this year. Records showed that a total of 25,533 dengue cases—180 of which resulted in the patients’ death—were reported last year. The figure was only one percent lower compared to that of 2010, according to Dr. Eduardo Janairo, regional director for Metro Manila’s Center for Health Development.

1,231; Malabon, 1,087; Taguig, 795; Pasay City, 780; and Muntinlupa, 752. Most of the patients were males between one and 15 years old, Janairo noted.

“We will not wait for dengue cases to accumulate and increase, that’s why we are intensifying our initiatives in strategic areas in Metro Manila where there were numerous dengue cases registered last year,” he said.

“We will be coordinating with the local health officials and [giving] them the necessary manpower and logistics to be able to provide essential measures in eliminating dengue in their respective localities,” Janairo said. At the same time, he advised Metro Manila residents to immediately report suspected dengue cases by calling any of these numbers: 0947-8138420, 0917-8247459 and 0923-1119600. ■

The highest number of dengue cases was reported in Quezon City with 8,174. Manila came next with 4,167 cases; Caloocan, 2,904; Valenzuela, 1,561; Pasig, 1,337; Parañaque,

The health official said routine cleanup activities in communities and integrated control and information campaigns would be launched this month to prevent the widespread transmission of the mosquito-borne disease.

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TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012

News-Canada

Union Bank analyzes Philippine economy in Vancouver Damp and chilly weather did not prohibit Vancouver business people from listening to a presentation from Union Bank president Victor Valdepenas and executive VP Genaro Lapez at the Riverrock Casino in Richmond B.C. on January 10. Entitled “Philippine Economic Prospects for 2012 and Beyond,” it was by all accounts, well-attended.

The two executives reported that the Philippines is now a safe haven for investment and its recent economic growth has been supported by an appropriate and effective implementation of policies and reforms, including reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts by both the public and the private sector.

They also noted the ongoing outmigration of Filipino skilled workers to different countries, a phenomenon now which averages around 4,000 every day. The Philippines is now the number four country in the world in terms of receiving remittance, next to China.

Another contributor to the country’s economic growth was said to be Business Processes Outsourcing, which was said to have risen to $9 billion from $1.5 billion in 2004. The Philippines’ balance of payment with supplier is 14 Billion in 2010 with an inflation rate is at 3.5%.

The Union Bank is currently on a North American tour intended to appeal to business leaders, shareholders, and community members interested in investment opportunities in the Philippines. Using their FOCUS strategy (which stands for F-Financial Value, O-Operations Excellence, C-Customer franchise , U-Union Bank brand/experience and S-Superior Innovation) they hope to become a universal bank by year 2020. ■

HISTORAMA UNITES FIL-CAN COMMUNITY

Filipino Winnipegger Rises to Stardom Maria Aragon’s rendition of PHILIPPINE National anthem at the boxing match between Philippine boxing champion, Manny Pacquio and Mexico’s Juan Marquez, brought joy and pride not just to 38,000 Filipinos in Winnipeg where the You Tube singing sensation hails, but to millions of Filipinos worldwide. She became an inspiration to other aspiring singers waiting in the wings to be discovered.

11-year old Aragon was catapulted to international popularity when Lady Gaga’s production team lauded Aragon’s piano and voice You Tube video of the US pop artist’s song, Born This Way. The video went viral after Lady Gaga personally praised Aragon.

Immediately, the young Winnipegger became a star, a household name.

Since then life was never the same for Maria Aragon who had accomplished so much in so short a time which included singing gigs at primetime TV shows like The Ellen De Generes Show; commercials for HTC Corporation, singing K’naan’s “Wavin’ Flag”, and Gap Kids, singing The Strangeloves “I Want Candy’; and ultimately recording and releasing in the Philippines a self-titled seven song solo album under ABS-CBN’s Star Records. ■

Various Fil-Can associations in Vancouver agreed to stage Philippine history in songs and dances at Queen Elizabeth Theatre titled Historama on June 9, 2012 using local talents, Philippine Consul General Jose Ampeso called a meeting of community leaders in early December to map out a plan to commemorate Philippine Independence Day in June.

Historama is a unique project which came about. “Let us unite and work together to make this a success”, said Philippine Consul General Jose Ampeso. A team of creative writers, led by Carmelita Salonga Tapia, with the help of local Philippine Dance Troupers, will work with archivist and acknowledged historian Atty.

Bernie Julve to research and summarize the important points in Philippine history.

The formation of an Executive committee to oversee the execution of HISTORAMA, firmed up the plan. Members include Tomas Avendano, Gigi Astudillo, Annie Jalac Miles, Michael Calingo, Elena Agala, and Mars dela Cruz. According to Mr. Ampeso who heads the Executive Committee, “HISTORAMA will be a community event, by the community for the community.

It will be a chance to revisit history and a chance for Canadian born Filipinos to know the truth about the Philippines”. Mr. Ampeso was delighted that members of the community are being tapped to portray the roles of famous Filipinos. He said that Filipinos are very talented and urges everyone to participate in this historic historical undertaking. ■

Opinion

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 14

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THERE’S THE RUB

It’s the ignominy, teach

BY CONRADO DE QUIROS - Philippine Daily Inquirer “It’s the economy, student” is Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s new mantra, a spin on Bill Clinton’s famous campaign line, “It’s the economy, stupid,” that booted George Bush Sr. out of the White House. P-Noy’s “obsessive pursuit of political warfare,” Arroyo says in a paper with that title, has slowed down the country’s economy. “Rather than building on our nation’s achievement, this regime has extolled itself as the sole harbinger of all that is good. And the Filipino people are paying for this obsession.”

Who knows? Arroyo probably figures it might have the same effect on P-Noy. If so, she figures wrong. Arroyo’s tack is the same one Ferdinand Marcos used in his time and which his heirs are now using in their time: If you repeat a lie long enough, it is bound to be believed. The bigger, the better. It’s a variation on what H.L. Mencken once said, which was that nobody yet lost a buck underestimating the American taste. In Marcos’ and Arroyo’s case, nobody yet lost power (or freedom) underestimating the Filipino credulity. Or as P.T. Barnum put it more bluntly, “A sucker is born every day.” Arroyo though took the lie to entirely new levels, even attempting to lecture the other heads of state in Davos on how to save their countries from the global ravaging.

At least that was how her officials and allies in the media reported it here. The image of the world’s biggest leaders huddled around Arroyo in the wintry cold to learn from her how they might pluck their people from the jaws of death, or debt, does not exactly inspire wonder.

You could die from it suppressing laughter.

If the economy held during the last few years before P-Noy, it was not because of Arroyo, it was in spite of Arroyo. Specifically, it was because of the remittances which kept the country afloat in spite of the tsunami of pillage she unleashed and the lack of confidence in the country she inspired in the world. The only reason Marcos worked the lie then was that he controlled the media, and the only reason his heirs are working the lie now is that 26 years have passed since he fled the irate crowd howling at the gates, an eternity of time in these parts. Arroyo has neither.

It wasn’t too long ago when lines formed because of rice scarcities, the product of a suicidal policy of resting the entire future of the country on rice importation rather than production. While other countries like the United States, Japan and Western Europe, were pursuing food security, heavily subsidizing their agriculture, we were relying on the kindness of strangers, trusting in the infinite wisdom of the global market. Indeed, it wasn’t too long ago when Arroyo got pissed off at a reporter for daring to ask why if there was growth it wasn’t being felt by the poor, why if

there was growth the poor were getting poorer.

Doubtless, as I wrote at the opening of the year, P-Noy will have his hands full dealing with the economy. If the problem runs deeper than just the global downturn (Indonesia and Vietnam did 6-7 percent even with it) and the fall in public spending (which subtracted only two-tenths of one percent of growth), if the problem is that we are seeing the end of remittance-led growth, then truly we are headed for some lean years while the economy goes on a reboot. Government will need all the goodwill it has earned to see it through these years.

I did warn in the same column that the usual suspects will argue the very thing they are arguing today, that P-Noy’s resolve to right wrongs, to correct the past, to punish the wicked and reward the good, is an impediment to economic progress. I didn’t bank on Arroyo spearheading that campaign herself, but then she has never lacked for grit, or gall. Or she has gotten a lot more desperate. The sensation of a noose tightening is not a pleasant one.

In fact, it’s not the new President that has shown a penchant for extolling himself, it is the old usurper. The extolling of the new President is not coming from himself, it is coming from the public, and it is too loud not to be heard even by the deaf. For reasons that are not hard to see. There are obsessions and obsessions. Some obsessions the people pay for, some obsessions they benefit from. A

GLIMPSES

Penang Postcards

BY RINA DAVID - Philippine Daily Inquirer Main organizers of the five-day Consolidation for Peace for Mindanao (COP5) were a Malaysian-Filipino husband-and-wife team: Dr. Kamarulzaman Askandar, who heads the Research and Education for Peace, Universiti Sains Malaysia (REPUSM), and Ayesah Abubakar, of the Mindanao Peace Program of REPUSM and of the Southeast Asian Conflict Studies Network (SEACSN).

“Sam,” as Dr. Askandar is addressed by friends, has long focused on conflict resolution in the various armed conflicts in Southeast Asia. He currently wears his hair down to his shoulders, and he confessed on the first day of COP5 that he has vowed to keep his hair long “until the peace negotiations in Mindanao are finished and an agreement is reached.” This provoked OPAPP Secretary Ging Quintos Deles to comment that “I hope the negotiations are finished soon so that Sam will not have to wear his hair down to his waist.”

Ayesah was born in Kidapawan but spent much of her life in Davao, straddling the worlds of her Muslim upbringing and her professional life. She and Sam met in the course of their work treading the minefields of peace-building in Mindanao, and they now have a young daughter who will not inherit, it is hoped, the legacy of war, displacement and distrust that her parents have spent their lives working to end.

Also coordinating COP5 was Sachiko Ishikawa, senior advisor of the Peace

Building Program of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (Jica) which has been providing grants for development projects like roads, bridges, water systems, classrooms and even shelter that the Japanese government considers an integral part of the peace-building effort. It was Sachiko who expressed on the first day of the COP5 that the “groundbreaking” gathering of most sectors involved in the Mindanao situation was the organizers’ way of encouraging “out-of-thebox” thinking to find new solutions to age-old problems. Assisting the main facilitators were students and staff, some of them Filipino, of REPUSM. They were truly a marvel, promptly responding to whatever request, question or difficulty the participants presented. Given the size of the group, and our diverse needs and interests, it was a wonder they were able to keep us to the schedule and herd everyone to the different venues without losing any stray sheep along the way.

••• Some speakers had a “good news-bad news” approach to their presentations.

Speaking on “Trends and Challenges in Global Peacemaking: Opportunities for Mindanao,” Kristian Herbolzheimer, representing Conciliation Resources, one of four international NGOs sitting on the International Contact Group, declared that all over the world, armed conflicts have gone down in number (from 53 in 1992 to 12 in

2010), with a similar downtrend in the number of casualties. Herbolzheimer likewise observed the “normalization” of negotiated solutions, remarking that even the United States is now negotiating with the Taliban.

But together with these are “negative trends,” such as the increase in conflict recurrence, that is, a return to war after the ostensible cessation of hostilities. He also noted the “blurring (of lines) between political and nonpolitical violence, the increase in non-state conflicts (such as the drug war in Mexico), and the stagnation in the decline in conflicts since 2003. If there is a “peace dividend,” then there are certainly losses due to war. Abhoud Syed M. Lingga, a member of the MILF peace panel, noted in his presentation that “no lowincome fragile or conflict-affected country has yet achieved a single Millennium Development Goal.” Citing the World Development Report 2011, Lingga added that “people (especially children) who live in countries affected by violence are twice as likely to be undernourished and 50 percent are more likely to be impoverished,” while children are “three times as likely to be out of school.”

The good news, said Lingga, is that both President Aquino and MILF Chair Murad Ebrahim, in their talks, “agreed to fast-track the negotiations” and that the discussions now focus on “substantial issues,” while the Malaysian facilitator of the peace talks has resorted to “creative ways” to keep both panels talking.

leader who is obsessed with clinging to power they pay for: There are the 14 years of martial law and the 10 years of Gloria’s law to show for it. A leader who is obsessed with pursuing justice they profit from—the other side of Gloria, Corona and Palparan—are hope, joy and contentment. If righting wrongs is an obsession, by all means be more obsessed.

It doesn’t take a rocket scientist or an economist to know who can better assure seven years of plenty, or failing that, prepare the people for the seven years of want, the wise and just ruler or the greedy and oppressive one. Instinct alone must tell you that where you have leaders wallowing in a culture of impunity, stealing money, stealing votes, stealing lives, stealing hope, stealing the future, you are not going to feel content, you are going to feel bereft. Common sense alone must tell you that where there are corrupt, there will be mahirap, where there is no elemental justice there will be no social justice, the poor will get poorer in mind as well as body, in spirit as well as flesh. Justice is to plenitude as mami is to siopao, and Gloria is to plenitude as Mike is to restraint.

One is tempted to say that those who can’t do, teach, or become fake presidents. But that is disrespecting teachers, a tribe I am especially fond of. Suffice it to say here that if the sum of Gloria’s professorial wisdom may be gleaned from her 10 years in Malacañang, then I’m very glad P-Noy has learned very little from it. It’s the economy, student? Nah. It’s the ignominy, teach. ■

••• Philippine Ambassador to Malaysia J. Eduardo Malaya has some surprising data to share about Philippine-Malaysia relations. True, Malaysia is the Philippines’ 11th major tourist market, with 80,000 Malaysian tourists visiting the Philippines in 2010. But even more Filipinos visited Malaysia that year, with 486,790 Filipino tourists.

And while Malaysian investments in the Philippines reached over $203 million over the last six years, in 2011, San Miguel Corp. bought Exxon Mobil Corp.’s 65 percent stake in Esso Malaysia Berhad for $610 million, “easily tripling in a single transaction the entire Malaysian investments in the Philippines for the last six years,” notes Malaya.

In 2010, Malaysian exports to the Philippines (mainly petroleum and petroleum products) were double that of Philippine exports to Malaysia (semiconductor devices, electric or electronic machinery). But the gap is slowly being bridged, with major Malaysian investors like Resorts World Hotel (and casino operations) thinking of expanding their investments in the country. Despite the laidback, easygoing nature of most Malaysians, especially in Penang, it is difficult to forget that one is in a Muslim country. The absence of pork dishes is telling, even in a five-star resort like the Shangri-la Golden Sands. And the folk dancers who entertained us during the welcome dinner were well-covered and moved with stately grace but hardly any wiggle.

Otherwise, their smiles and open faces should dispel any notions about how “repressive” life under the Bangsa Moro would be. ■

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Opinion

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012

AS I SEE IT

Corona’s and Carpio’s assets

BY NEAL H. CRUZ - Philippine Daily Inquirer The trial in the Senate of impeached Chief Justice Renato Corona begins today. It would be “The Greatest Show in the Philippines” for the next two or three weeks—if dilatory tactics are not used to delay the trial.

From all indications, the defense team of Chief Justice Corona has anchored his defense on legal technicalities. It is questioning the verification by congressmen of the impeachment complaint signed by 188 members of the House of Representatives. It is a common trick of lawyers— when the facts are not favorable to them—to resort to legal technicalities. This is one of them.

But it is a basic principle in law that in case of a conflict between the substance and the letter of the law, substance takes priority. In the case of official acts by public officials like congressmen, there is always the presumption of regularity until proven otherwise. On the issue of the verification of the impeachment complaint, the Supreme Court itself has long held that a verification “is a formal, not jurisdictional, requirement.” Even in situations where a verification may be construed as defective or inadequate, “a court may simply order the correction of unverified pleadings or act on them and waive strict compliance with the rules.” (Bello v. Bonifacio Security, citing Ramirez v. CA and Altres v. Empleo) Thus, even assuming that there was no strict

compliance with the rule on verification, the remedy is simply to order it corrected or waive the requirement and proceed with the trial.

In the case of the present impeachment, the fact that 188 members of the House indisputably signed the impeachment complaint should be enough to close this trivial issue. Their signatures and votes for impeachment more than adequately comply with the constitutionally required vote of onethird of all the members of the House.

The more significant and substantial requirement is the vote, and there is no doubt that it was obtained. Harping on what the courts themselves have designated as a mere “formal” requirement, or worse, insisting that this formal requirement should derail the impeachment process despite an overwhelming vote for it, is a misguided notion that upholds the letter but kills the spirit of the law.

Furthermore, the Senate should grant the respect due to its co-equal chamber of Congress, by accepting the implied certification arising from the fact of its submission of the verified complaint to the Senate, that the constitutional requirements have been complied with. Article XI, Section 3(2) of the Constitution grants the House “the exclusive power to initiate all cases of impeachment.” The House has declared that it has initiated the process and impeached the Chief Justice. This should settle the issue. The Senate should simply accept this determination by its co-equal chamber and proceed with its own constitutional duty to conduct the trial.

It is not surprising, however, that Corona’s legal team and their sympathizers in the Senate have raised this issue. It has been the hallmark of lawyers’ strategy to avoid substance and nitpick on technicality. If the evidence is not in your favor, prevent the presentation of that evidence by preventing the trial through a technicality.

Even in the face of an overwhelming vote of 188 members of the House supporting the impeachment and endorsing it to the Senate for trial, Corona’s lawyers still, with straight faces, claim that the complaint is defective and should be thrown out for insufficiency in form and substance.

It should be remembered that ultimately, the political character of impeachment gives primacy to the sufficiency of numbers.

This is the key point that Corona’s defense team is hell-bent on ignoring: that he was overwhelmingly impeached by the House.

Ignoring that vote and harping on a trivial technicality insult the integrity of the House and do violence to the interests of the Filipino people, whose will is sovereign.

***

The wealth of Supreme Court justices has become an interesting sidebar to the present impeachment trial, especially with the assets of Chief Justice Corona being mentioned in the propaganda war. As stated here before, only the Chief Justice, not the Supreme Court, is involved in the impeachment, and definitely not the entire Judiciary. Obviously, there are quarters that seem to include the entire judicial

bureaucracy.

Obviously to counter the stories on the assets of the Corona family, which they cannot afford on their legitimate incomes, unconfirmed reports were spread that Senior Associate Justice Antonio Carpio, Corona’s main “rival,” owned an 800-square meter penthouse condominium unit with a swimming pool at Avignon Tower on HV dela Costa Street, Salcedo Village, Makati. This came out as Carpio released the summary of his statement of assets, liabilities and net worth (SALN) for 2010 to Newsbreak and to Kaya Natin Movement for Good Governance and Ethical Leadership. The summary indicated that he reported a net asset of P47,269,928 for that year.

Carpio was one of only two justices who authorized the release of their SALNs, the other being Associate Justice Maria Lourdes Sereno.

Last Thursday, Carpio sent a clarification to the Inquirer. “My family owns one of the two units on the floor below the penthouse, and there is no swimming pool in our unit,” he wrote. “Our unit is reported in my SALN.” Carpio added that the Avignon Tower has been his residence even before he joined the Supreme Court. Recently, US-based immigration and human rights lawyer Ted Laguatan, who writes a column for Inquirer. net, claimed ownership of the disputed penthouse. With these clarifications, it is clear that the public was simply misled. Who benefits from the lies peddled? ■

PUBLIC LIVES

Impeachment: Can it do any good?

BY RANDY DAVID - Philippine Daily Inquirer Many reasonable people who are not explicitly for Chief Justice Renato Corona have warned that impeaching a member of the high court, let alone its chief, could undermine the judicial branch of government.

If this happens, they say, the rule of law would be weakened. Tyranny would reign.

Judges would become timid, leaving no one to review or check the conduct of politicians.

These fears are not unfounded. We have the record of martial law to show that such things can happen. But, we are far from being under martial law, whether declared or undeclared. Those who say we are, either do not know or have forgotten what it was like to be arrested without a warrant or detained without charges, or to disappear without a trace, live in constant fear, or forced to go underground or flee to another country for merely criticizing the government.

If the impeachment process is conducted in a fair and transparent way, the institutional gains could be immense. The boundary between law and politics would be sharpened, and the judiciary could come out of this vastly strengthened. Politicians, from the president and members of Congress down to the mayor of the smallest town, would be firmly reminded that it is not their business to interfere in the functions of the judiciary.

Judges from the highest to the lowest court, on the other hand, would be strongly warned

about incurring political debts in exchange for appointments, or getting embroiled in politics.

If we examine the history of impeachment in England where it originated, and in the United States from where we copied the concept, we would find that impeachment trials were extraordinary episodes in the life of governments aspiring to democracy. They were crucial points in the transition to modern society. Structural features like separation of powers and checks and balances in government slowly evolved as achievements of a modern society, rather than the self-executing constitutional mandates they are today thought to be.

Because ours is a relatively young political system, bound to procedures and practices borrowed from more mature societies, we have little choice but to turn to the experiences of these societies for guidance on how to conduct them and what to expect of them. At the same time, because our social conditions are different, we are slowly forging our own practices.

One of the ideas we have adopted from abroad is that impeachment is a political process. This has caused some confusion.

Some think this means that a case may be decided along purely partisan lines. Others believe that while the power to impeach belongs to a political branch of government, its exercise must nonetheless observe established

legal procedures. These two views do not necessarily contradict each other. The norm has been: the impeachment court must avoid being perceived as narrowly partisan, while allowing greater flexibility in its proceedings than one would expect in an ordinary court.

In what way is impeachment political? I think it is “political” in at least three senses: (1) Impeachable offenses like “betrayal of public trust” are treated as political crimes that may or may not be punishable as criminal offenses; (2) The object of impeachment is the removal of a public official from office; and (3) The judgment is rendered by a political branch of government, whose ultimate task is to decide whether the removal of the impeached official is good for the nation or not.

I believe a lot of the confusion arises from the notion that a public official may be impeached only for criminally indictable offenses like stealing, not paying taxes, or taking a bribe. By this standard, acts like interceding for a party in a case, or showing extreme bias for an individual to whom one is politically indebted, or exceeding one’s authority, would not qualify as valid grounds for impeachment. Yet a review of well-known impeachment cases that have been tried in the United States and England would attest to the open-ended meaning of phrases like “betrayal of public trust” and “other high crimes.”

It is obvious that the prosecutors from the

House of Representatives are themselves hard-pressed to pin down Corona not just for manifesting partiality in his decisions but, more importantly, for unexplained wealth and graft and corruption. This would explain the current focus on Corona’s properties. They know that in the public mind only criminal offenses like undue enrichment of oneself while in public office would justify removing a chief justice from his position.

Fortunately for the prosecution, in a society like ours where the rich and powerful are wont to take shortcuts with the law, it is not so difficult for someone who is determined to dig deep to come up with evidence for an indictable criminal offense.

But let us not forget that what triggered the impeachment was something profoundly political, a valid reason that needs no embellishment. Corona’s original sin lay in his throwing away all discretion, all delicadeza, all sense of honor, when he accepted the midnight appointment offered to him by a discredited outgoing president. This is scandalous enough for anyone appointed under these circumstances to any other position in government. The institutional damage is immeasurable when the position is that of Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, a branch of government whose stable functioning depends almost wholly on its credibility as an impartial interpreter of the law. ■

Sports

Floyd Mayweather Jr. is Plan A for Manny–Bob Arum

BY ROY LUARCA - Philippine Daily Inquirer MANILA, Philippines—Revered promoter Bob Arum made it clear last Monday—Manny Pacquiao’s priority for his next fight is Floyd Mayweather Jr. Other names being floated— Miguel Cotto, Timothy Bradley, Juan Manuel Marquez, Lamont Peterson—will only be considered after Mayweather is deemed unavailable.Asked by Rick Reeno of BoxingScene.com as to whom Pacquiao prefers to tangle with other than Mayweather, Arum replied: “I am not authorized to talk about who it is because whoever it is, is Plan B. When they become Plan A, we’ll talk about it.

“Plan A is Mayweather. We are locked and loaded on our side, we’re ready.”

In the same report, Arum, who conferred with Pacquiao regarding his choice from Jan. 3 to 7 in Manila, guaranteed Top Rank’s and Pacquiao’s 50 percent stake in the megabuck bout projected to enrich the protagonists by at least US$50 million each. Thing is, according to Arum, there’s no clear signal from the camp of Mayweather, who earlier taunted and dared Pacquiao to a May 5 showdown, through his Twitter account.

The 80-year-old Arum, a Harvard-educated lawyer and boxing

Hall of Famer, reiterated that all the flamboyant American needs to do is call and formalize who’ll be representing him in the negotiations.

There are other obstacles to consider. Mayweather’s insistence for a May 5 fight date, a bigger share of the revenues and his three-month jail sentence which he’ll stand serving on June 1 all serve as possible hurdles to the fight. All Pacquiao wants is a 50-50 split in earnings for the fight, also projected to shatter Oscar De La Hoya-Mayweather’s pay-per-view record set in 2007, to push through.

Due to the magnitude of Pacquiao-Mayweather, Arum wants the fight to be held late May and, if possible, on June 9. Arum is also batting for an outdoor arena to be built along the Vegas strip that could accommodate approximately 45,000 and bring additional gate receipts of over US$30 million.

If Pacquiao-Mayweather doesn’t push through up to June, Arum envisions the unification bout to happen between the World Boxing Organization and World Boxing Council welterweight champions in November. ■

Ravena gets Smart MVP plum from UAAPNCAA 3 Filipino GMs scribes share top spot

Coach of the Year) will also receive recognition in the event organized by scribes from major print and online publications and Smart.

Other awardees are Ateneo’s Nico Salva and San Beda’s Dave Marcelo (Pivotal Players), Far Eastern University’s RR Garcia (Court General) and Aldrech Ramos (Mr. Efficiency), San Sebastian’s Ronald Pascual (Impact Player) and Ian Sangalang (Mr. Efficiency), Ateneo’s Emman Monfort (Maynilad Super Senior) and Kirk Long (Defensive Stopper) and Letran’s Kevin Alas (Energy Player). ■

BY JASMINE W. PAYO - Philippine Daily Inquirer

MANILA, Philippines—He’s often honored for his immense cage talent, but even off court, Ateneo’s Kiefer Ravena makes a good impression. Ravena will receive the Smart MVP award in the Collegiate Basketball Awards as the UAAP-NCAA Press Corps recognizes not only his cage exploits but also his other inspiring contributions. The awards night, where Ravena will also receive the Collegiate Mythical Team plum, is set this Saturday at the Gateway Suites in Araneta Center, Cubao.

Ravena, the UAAP Rookie of the Year and Mythical Team member, recently spearheaded a fundraiser that gathered varsity stars and showbiz celebrities for a one-game exhibition.

Proceeds of the charity game, which raised a sizable amount, were given to the victims of Tropical Storm “Sendong” in Cagayan de Oro. “It’s good to win, but it also feels good to help,” said the 18-year-old Ravena. Ravena, a member of the national under-16 and under-18 teams, again donned the country’s colors as the youngest member of the Sinag Pilipinas team that bagged the championship of 2011 Southeast Asian Games.

Joining Ravena in the Collegiate Mythical Team are NCAA MVP Calvin Abueva of San Sebastian, UAAP MVP Bobby Ray Parks of National University, Ateneo’s Greg Slaughter and San Beda’s Garvo Lanete. Ateneo tactician Norman Black (UAAP Coach of the Year) and San Beda mentor Frankie Lim (NCAA

BY ROY LUARCA - Philippine Daily Inquirer Filipino Grandmasters John Paul Gomez, Oliver Barbosa, and Richard Bitoon posted their third straight wins and shared the lead in the 10th Parsvnath International Open Chess Tournament 2012 in New Delhi, India. Gomez, fresh off a runner-up finish in the 4th Chennai Open Grand Master Chess over the weekend, bested Kumar Gaurav and Indian Fide Masters Vinoth Kumar and Rajesh in succession.

Barbosa prevailed over Indians Rajarishi Karthi, Thakurta Soumya and Ankit R. Rajpara, respectively, while Bitoon downed Indians Aradhya Garg, Chandika Divyasree, and International Master Konguvel Ponnuswamy. Joining the Filipinos in the huge group of perfect three pointers are top seed GM Andrei Deviatkin of Russia, GM Marat Dzhumaev of Uzbekistan, and GMs Abhijit Kunte and Praveen Thipsay of India.

Also unbeaten are IMs Babu Lalith, Ashwin Jayaram, Thejkumar M S, Vaibhav Suri, FM Ghosh Diptayan, Bitan Banerjee, Jaiswal Puneet, Sekar B, Gusain Himal and Shreyans K Shah of India and Zeng Chongsheng and Bai Jinshi of China.

Another Filipino entry, GM Mark Paragua, trounced Manan Rai, Akash Pc Iyer and split the point with IM Ravi Lanka of India to raised his total to 2.5 points, good for a share of 20th to 53rd place. ■

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 16

A

Azkals bow to Koreans

BY CEDELF P. TUPAS - Philippine Daily Inquirer

PENALTY SHOOTOUT There were plenty of encouraging signs but Philippine Azkals coach Michael Weiss feels the team has a lot of catching up to do to stand a chance in their next major tournament—the AFC Challenge Cup in Nepal in March.

The Azkals, missing some of their high-profile players, salvaged a late equalizer but fell short to Korean side Icheon Citizen, 2-4, in a penalty shootout capping the charity match for the Kia Rio Cup at the Rizal Memorial Stadium Saturday night. And while Weiss took pride at the way his side battled until the end, the German coach felt the Azkals are far from the form to be competitive in Nepal. “We showed a very good performance tonight, but the others are not sleeping,” said Weiss, noting that North Korea, which is grouped with the Philippines, India and Tajikistan, has been training together for the past three months.

MOST IMPORTANT STRETCH The most important stretch of the Azkals’ preparations for the tournament that stakes spot to the AFC Asian Cup in 2015 will come in early February when they fly to Dubai for a 12day camp that will include tune-up matches against Serbian powerhouse Partizan Belgrade and the Australian Under-23 team. Southeast Asian Games veteran Marwin Angeles, making his debut for the senior side, unleashed a rocket from just inside the box in the 89th minute to send the match into a penalty shootout. But Angel Guirado and Carli de Murga muffed their efforts from the spot, dooming the Azkals in the exhibition match that will benefit victims of Tropical Storm “Sendong.” The Azkals missed several key players like Phil and James Younghusband, Anton del Rosario, Lexton Moy, Nate Burkey and Jason Sabio due to club commitments with the United Football League.

Although they dominated the match for long periods, the Azkals lacked the cutting edge to break down the Koreans.

WOLF’S AZKALS DEBUT Fil-german striker Denis Wolf dazzled in his Azkals debut, forcing a string of saves from the Korean keeper, while also earning what appeared to be a penalty in the first half.

Wolf, a veteran of the Bundesliga, appeared to have been clipped inside the area, but referee Wilfredo Bermejo instead awarded the Azkals with a free kick at the edge of the box.

Wolf unleashed a stinging shot to force the corner that led to the goal. Misagh Bahadoran, starting on the right wing in place of James Younghusband, found an unmarked Angeles on top of the box and the newcomer fired an unstoppable effort. “I’m happy to score on my first game with the senior team,” said the Laos FC midfielder. Weiss said the development of the likes of young players like Angeles showed that “they have done good work” over the past year. The German coach stressed the need for a deeper talent pool based locally. He also rued the absence of experienced players like the Younghusband brothers and hoped the UFL considers their stand with regards to the release of players.

PLAYERS NOT RELEASED Loyola and Kaya did not release their players as they were scheduled to play a UFL game yesterday. Kwan Bin-tae gave Icheon the lead in the 21st minute, pouncing on a defensive miscue. But the Koreans hardly troubled the makeshift Azkals backline with Rob Gier and Nestorio Margarse anchoring the defense. “Physically, it was a difficult game,” said Citizen coach Lee Hyun-chang. “But we kept it going mentally.”

The Citizens went perfect in their first four attempts from the spot, beating Ed Sacapano. But Guirado hit the crossbar in the first round of the shootout, before Chieffy Caligdong and Ruben Doctora found the back of the net.

De Murga then sent his effort over the bar, sealing the win for the Korean side. ■

A 17

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012

Immigration

CCIS PROGRAMS CONTINUOUSLY HELPING PINOY TEMPORARY WORKERS AND IMMIGRANTS IN ALBERTA

BY MARIETTA PANGAN-DUTKOSKI

The Temporary Foreign Worker Integration (TFWI) program is offered by Alberta Employment and Immigration and is funded through the Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS). The program provides assistance for workers to facilitate immersion in their new community. CCIS believes that through integration, they will achieve retention of foreign workers leading to become successful immigrants. Through TFWI’s information sessions, orientations and workshops, they help temporary workers understand the following important topics: • Employee Rights and Labour Standards • Pay and Benefits • Housing (rent, utilities) • Taxes and Budgeting • Health Care • Recreation/Sports • Transportation (drivers license, using public transit) • Communication (ESL classes) • Climate • Shopping (clothing, food, medicine) • Law and documentation • Understanding the Canadian Business Culture TFWI also offers sessions dealing with: • Building a Canadian Resume • Alberta Immigrant Nomination Program • Labour Standards • Canadian Business Culture CCIS also extends assistance to TFWs by providing more information about the Alberta

Immigrating to Canada, better to properly prepare the first time, then try and fix a second time

BY SHAWN BOWDEN, RCIC Many people think that immigrating to another country is either a very easy process or an impossible process. To be honest, it is neither. Like painting the perfect picture, it is a process of many dedicated steps that will all interact and relate to one another. However, it

Immigrant and Nominee Program (AINP). This employer program encourages TFWs to apply and be nominated by the Alberta Government to achieve permanent residency.

Filipino contract workers interested in receiving information about the above topics should contact Temporary Foreign Worker Integration Program coordinator: Jessica Juen Program Coordinator Temporary Foreign Worker Support Services Program Business, Employment and Training Services Calgary Catholic Immigration Society Tel: 403-290-5113 Fax: 403-264-4858 Email: tfw@ccis-calgary.ab.ca ABOUT CCIS: Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS) is a non-profit organization, which provides settlement and integration services to all immigrants and refugees in Southern Alberta.

We are a community leader with 30 years of solid experience in the design and delivery of comprehensive quality resettlement and integration services to refugees and immigrants. We pride ourselves in delivering these services through a dynamic multicultural, multilingual and multidisciplinary team of professionals who collectively speak over 70 languages. This diversity enables us to provide our clients and community with optimum assistance. We have over 1,500 volunteers who devote their time to help newcomers. Visit us at www.ccis-calgary.ab.ca. ■

is important to keep in mind that the situation is never exactly the same for each individual and the process itself is one that is constantly changing. What does stay the same is the need to understand the process and to prepare early and properly to avoid possible delays and disappointment.

Over the last year there have been many changes that have affected many people immigrating to Canada or are in the process of doing so. New caps were passed on certain occupations under the Federal Skilled Worker program, some Provincial Nominee programs were closed, and other areas such as the sponsorship of parents saw major policy changes. Not to mention regulatory changes within the industry that few people outside of the industry are aware of, and the major overhaul of key application forms.There is a lot to be concerned about, understood, and

THE DUAL CITIZENSHIP LAW—An Overview WHAT IS THE DUAL CITIZENSHIP LAW?

The Dual Citizenship Law, otherwise known as the Citizenship Retention and Reacquisition Act of 2003, is a law that allows natural-born Filipino citizens who have been naturalized as citizens of another country to regain or retain their Philippine citizenship.

BENEFITS • Land ownership • Business • Philippine passport; indefinite stay • Practice of profession • Suffrage • Public office • Derivative citizenship of minor beneficiaries • Intangibles DUTIES/OBLIGATIONS • Support and defend the Constitution • Obey laws and legal orders • Recognize and accept the Supreme Authority…

• Maintain true faith and allegiance • Pay taxes (but not on income earned outside the Philippines) REQUIREMENTS 1.Applicant must be NATURAL-BORN citizen of the Philippines.

Who are natural-born citizens?

• Those born Filipino, without having to perform anything to acquire or perfect Philippine citizenship; • Those born of Filipino mothers before Jan. 17, 1973, who elect Philippine citizenship upon reaching the age of majority.

2.Application for Citizenship Retention and Re-Acquisition under R.A. 9225 • Original and copy of Birth Certificate authenticated by the National Statistics Office (NSO) • Marriage Certificate (for married female applicants) • Death Certificate of spouse (if applicable) • Appropriate divorce decree or court order on the annulment of marriage (if applicable) •Three (3) recent 4.5 cm X 3.5 cm photographs (colored with ROYAL BLUE background) • Fee of CAN $57.50/applicant­—in money order or bank draft only made payable to the Philippine Consulate General • Photocopy of Canadian passport • Photocopy of Citizenship Card/ID • Photocopy of Certificate of Oath Taking as a Canadian

addressed. The best approach is simple: Do your research and when possible, seek advice from a qualified source. A few extra steps at the beginning can save you months and even years of effort to correct. This would include knowing the latest requirements and options open to your unique situation, knowing and using all the latest forms and applications that are required, and completing everything correctly. Many situations in general are the same; however, certain aspects of each individual case may result in a wider range of options to one person and not to the other.

Seeking advice from a qualified source is invaluable and can save a great deal of time and money. Qualified sources can advise you of options open to you, prepare needed documentation, represent you, and assist in ways non-qualified sources may not have the knowledge or expertise in. The key thing to remember is the word “qualified”. Many

• Photocopy of old Philippine passport • Proof of having been naturalized as a foreign citizen • Certificate of Naturalization or Affidavit explaining its loss or unavailability • In case applicant is a BI-registered alien, surrender ACR/ICR/CRTV or affidavit of loss.

DEPENDENT • One (1) recent 4.5 cm X 3.5 cm photographs (colored with ROYAL BLUE background) • Copy of Foreign Passport • Copy of Birth Certificate • Fee of CAN$ 28.75 (certified cheque or postal money order) * (original shall be presented to the evaluating officer) PROCEDURES FOR APPLICATION • Application form must be duly accomplished and signed.

• All requirements should be submitted with the duly accomplished application form.

• If the documents are complete and satisfactory, applicant will be informed, of the schedule for taking the Oath of Allegiance.

• Personal Appearance is required in taking the Oath of Allegiance Ceremony.

PROCEDURES FOR USE OF PASSPORT • Passenger departing Canada presents Canadian passport only to airline employee; • Passenger arriving in PH presents both Canadian and Philippine passports at immigration; • Passenger departing PH presents both Canadian and Philippine passports to immigration; • Passenger arriving in Canada presents Canadian passport only to Canadian immigration.

DOES CANADA ALLOW DUAL CITIZENSHIP? • Yes. Canadian law permits dual or multiple citizenships: you can be a citizen of another country and still be recognized as Canadian.

Source: Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) of Canada SHOULD DUAL CITIZENS PAY TAX IN THE PHILIPPINES? • Yes, all Philippine citizens must pay tax in the Philippines as a general rule.

• With respect to income tax, however, dual citizens shall pay tax only on income earned in the Philippines. ■

applications are delayed or denied based on incomplete, missing, or incorrect data. A lot of these delays can be traced to forms or applications not being completed properly or filled out in a way other than what is requested.

Sometimes this is due to simple oversights, and sometimes this is caused by the applicant not fully understanding what is required. In either case, or for whatever reason, these types of delays may be detected and avoided before the application is submitted if done by someone who is knowledgeable and qualified.

In many cases, even a simple final review of the application may be all that is needed. There is a wide range of organizations that have qualified people to help. The time and delays this step can possibly save are well worth the effort in many cases. My mother would always tell me “A ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure”, and with regards to immigration, this is so true. ■

News-Canada

Toronto concert pays tribute to renowned Filipino composer A crisp, wintry evening did not prevent the Filipino community from honoring Ramon “Mon” Torralba for his contribution to Philippine music at the “Pagibig sa Tinubuang Lupa” (love for the native land) concert which was held at the Toronto Opera House last December 30.

The well-attended occasion was a tribute to the popular songster who first gained fame back in the 70s when his “Pers Lab” ditty hit the airwaves with his home-grown Hotdog Band in Manila. The song highlights the torment of someone who has a crush on a girl, but had not yet had the chance to meet or talk to her.

Decades later, the song still remains in the repertoire of a new generation of young artists performing in public

concerts—specially in Toronto—though Torralba himself now has found a quiet haven from the giddying applause from fans of yesteryears.

Pedro Chan, the Philippine Consul General in Toronto, presented an award at the by Bong Castillo, who himself is a noted singer. “The award is conferred on our great heroes and composers, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the culture-changing Manila Sound that later evolved as the Original Pilipino Music,” said Castillo.

“This song was really about me and my feelings,” Torralba said in an interview. “And I found that I can only [express it] through a song.”■

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 18

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Toronto group sends relief to Washistricken Philippines Toronto-based GlobalMedic sent goods and supplies to the Philippines after Typhoon Washi left an estimated 1,000 victims dead and displaced 280,000 others. The group provides emergency relief to those affected by natural disasters and other complex emergencies around the world by providing supplies and equipment. It also features a Filipino Rapid Response team that is currently on the ground in Mindanao.

The Toronto Rapid Response Team first headed to Cagayan de Oro on December 23 with two water purification units capable of providing 60,000 people with access to clean drinking water daily, according to Matt Capobianco of GlobalMedic.

“They also brought with them water purification tablets and sachets,” he added. “Water in any emergency is first and foremost. Without clean water people are going to get sick and won’t be able to help rebuild.” The risk of spreading waterborne diseases is particularly high in circumstances where people have no access to fresh drinking water.

Canadians always rise to the occasion when people around the world are devastated, according to Mona El Sayeh with the International Development Relief Foundation. “This is about humanity. People helping people. Without clean water you can’t have proper health care,” she said.

“Canadians’ prayers and thoughts are with the people of the Philippines,” said Member of Parliament (MP) Jim Karygiannis, who added that he will ask the government of Canada to match “dollar for dollar” any donations raised for the cause. “This is another devastation for the Philippines. We need to pull together,” he added.

“This will be a big help for our people,” said Pedro Chan, the Philippine Consul General with the Toronto Philippine Consulate. “ The Filipino people are very grateful for the help.”

■

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR Congratulations on the exciting launch of the Philippine Canadian Inquirer newspaper which will serve the growing and influential Filipino-Canadian community in Vancouver and across Canada.

By providing timely news and informative feature stories in addition to coverage of important community events, the Philippine Canadian Inquirer will help unite Filipino-Canadians across Canada and help keep them connected to the Philippines.

I offer my very best wishes on a successful launch and I look forward to many future issues of the Philippine Canadian Inquirer.

Yours Truly,

Gregor Robertson, MAYOR

GREETINGS FROM THE MAYOR: On behalf of City Council and the residents of Richmond, I would like to extend sincere congratulations to everyone involved with the launching of Philippine Canadian Inquirer (PCI).

Philippine Canadian Inquirer (PCI) is the first and only Filipino Canadian newspaper to be published weekly. It will be distributed Canada wide, reaching a vast number of audience and will be available for free. Featuring news, travel, entertainment, fashion, and lifestyle, I am positive PCI will generate plenty of interest among its readers. As Mayor, I take pride in the remarkable multicultural community within the City of Richmond. I believe that it creates mutual respect and generate understanding of the different perspectives and traditions that make up a diverse cultural heritage.

Please accept my sincere best wishes on the occasion of your launch, and for the promising future of Philippine Canadian Inquirer.

Yours truly,

News-Canada

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 20

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Vancouver Ati-Atihan Day A Roaring Success

BY JOJO QUIMPO

Filipino-Canadians flocked to St. Patrick Recreational Hall last January for the celebration of the 31st Annual Ati-Atihan Festival, and the 4th anniversary of “AtiAtihan Day” in the City of Vancouver.

The annual Ati-Atihan celebration organized by the Aklanon Sto. Nino Association is one of the biggest and liveliest Filipino cultural events in Canada.

St. Patrick was jam-packed with 700+ Aklanons, devotees, guests and participating tribes. Various groups wearing beautiful and colourful indigenous costumes joined in the celebration where they represent different Ati-Atihan tribes: Tribu Palaboy, Tribu Timawa, Tribu Bee Sun Sin-o, Tribu Balete, Tribu Ibajaynon and Tribu Hirit Hirit.

The Ati-Atihan festival started with the blessing of Sto. Nino images brought by devotees. It was followed by the traditional “sadsad” or merrymaking led by the Ati-Atihan band and AtiAtihan tribes.

Everyone roared in delight when the Ati-Atihan band started playing drums in the beat of Ati-Atihan music with the AtiAtihan tribes dancing. The atmosphere inside the St. Patrick hall was so infectious that spectators, guests, and devotees alike joined in the lively merrymaking amid shouts of ‘Hala Bira’ and ‘Viva Senior Sto. Nino’. It was a spectacular scene of success.

Philippine Consul General Jose Ampeso described his first Vancouver Ati-Atihan festival experience as fun and amazing.

He said that it was a beautiful cultural celebration that all Filipino-Canadians should be proud of.

For 31 years, the Aklanon Sto. Nino Association has been drawing large crowds to the Ati-Atihan festival to showcase and promote this world-renowned Philippine festival in Canada.

In recognition of the success of the annual celebration of AtiAtihan Festival, Mayor Gregor Robertson officially proclaimed “Ati-Atihan Day” in the City of Vancouver.

Mayor Robertson explained that “the Filipino-Canadians continue to make significant contributions to the social and economic vitality of Vancouver and are a vibrant part of our multicultural city, as the Ati-Atihan Festival demonstrates.”

The Mayor congratulated the Aklanon Sto. Nino Association for its strong leadership in bringing the Ati-Atihan to more and more people each year. The Ati-Atihan has grown to become one of the most important Filipino-Canadian cultural festivals in Vancouver, Canada. ■

QUEZON CITY MAYOR HERBERT BAUTISTA TO ATTEND ‘CITIES SUMMIT’ IN VANCOUVER Mayor Herbert Bautista to speak before the “Cities Summit” conference to be held in Vancouver on Feb 1st and 2nd.

BY LDEP The Cities Summit will assemble international business and urban leaders to design creative, practical solutions for a sustainable urban future. Celebrated author and artist Douglas Coupland will be the keynote speaker and will speak about the 21st Century as the age of city building.

As the world is urbanizing faster than ever, for the first time, half the planet’s population—over 3.5 billion people —live in cities. Another two billion will join them by 2030.

This great migration is set to define urban life for generations

to come. Mayor Bautista is a strong advocate of sustainable approaches to urban renewal, combined with effective formula to eradicate urban blight through well-crafted, multi-stakeholder programs for affordable strong housing and resettlement. He is a champion of good ecological principles and is working to spread this advocacy to create more quality communities in Quezon City. Prior to being Mayor of Quezon City, he led the City Council to enact landmark ordinances for children, senior citizens, indigents, environmental protection, and many others, including the pioneering Green Building Ordinance. His priority governance thrusts are poverty alleviation, environment management, well-rationalized urban development, and

e-governance. He is a champion of good ecological principles and is working to spread this advocacy to create more quality communities in Quezon City. His government services started 25 years ago as a Barangay Youth Leader at the age of 17.

Concurrently, he is the public relations officer for the National Capital Region of the League of Cities Philippines, as well as Chairman of the Social Development Committee of the Regional Development Council of the Metro Manila Development Authority. ■

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TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 24

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FILIPINO PLAZA, A LANDSCAPE PARK FOR FILIPINOS IN VANCOUVER BRITISH COLUMBIA

BY FPBC Unknown to many, Filipinos in Vancouver British Columbia have a park to call their own—the Filipino Plaza. The park is located in Vanness Avenue, west of Sky Train’s Nanaimo Station in the city of Vancouver, Canada. The open park, sometimes referred to as a linear park located underneath the Sky Train Expo Line, was one of the dozens of open parks built in 1986 as part of BC Transit’s Parkway program showcasing different cultural parks on the 26-kilometer path that parallels the Sky Train. Many ethnic communities created legacies on the linear park under the Sky Train in 1986.

Highly visible in the front of the park area wooden arch, a very distinctive-colorful Sarimanok logo, and two walls made up of 2,000 red bricks donated by Filipino-Canadian representing the pioneers of the plaza.

Construction of the park was made possible with the bayanihan spirit of Filipino-Canadian members of the “Filipino Plaza Committee of 1985.” The designer of the Sarimanok logo and the park itself was a Filipino artist, Bert Morelos. The committee led the efforts of the

Coco, Maja, and Angeline in Calgary: a review

BY MARIETTA PANGAN-DUTKOSKI Calgary, Alberta has long been a favourite destination among visiting Filipino luminaries because of the enthusiastic reception they can always count on from Filipino-Calgarians.

Almost every month, in fact, Calgary is graced by Filipino celebrities on all manner of Canadian tours, as they trek their way across the province, country, or continent.

To many Calgarians, Pure Talents Entertainment is synonymous with “Sold Out!” Since 2005, Filipinos have enjoyed top-of-the-line performances by homegrown stars such as Gary Valenciano, Martin Nievera, Sharon Cuneta, The Apo Hiking Society, Kuh Ledesma, Zsa-Zsa Padilla, Pops Fernandez, Basil Valdez and The Hitmakers, to name but a few. Though Pure Talents organizer Esperanza Garcia remains in mourning over her mother’s recent passing, on the encouragement of her co-producer and friend Ellen Sarmiento, she recently agreed to produce another concert tour — with Calgary was one of its stops.

The concert, starring Coco Martin, Maja Salvador, and Angeline Quinto delighted fans this past November 26, and featured a unique combination of comedy and singing from all three headliners.

The show opened with performances that showcased the many great talents of FilipinoCalgarians, all arranged and coordinated

by Joel Valderrama. Maja Salvador gave a comic performance befitting her title of “The Beautiful Pokwang,” and engaged the audience

many Filipinos in raising enough money for the plaza.

For years after its construction in 1985, nothing was said about this Filipino landmark until a new breed of Filipinos headed by Jay Razon joined their efforts and created the Filipino Plaza Society of BC as it is now. The nine-member Board meets regularly to carry out the society’s missions who are to manage the general affairs of the existing Filipino Plaza Park, provide the community with a historical park rich in Filipino culture and traditions, and to offer usage of the park to the community in a responsible and environment-friendly way.

The Society is encouraging all Filipinos to be a part of the team tasked to maintain the cleanliness of the plaza. The Filipino Plaza will be the official site of the flag raising ceremony to kick off the various independence celebrations in the lower mainland of Vancouver, British Columbia.

This year, the flag raising ceremony will be held on June 2, 2012. The event will be under the direct supervision of the Philippine Consulate Office with the participation of the various Filipino associations. ■

with a dance showdown, proving her to be the true princess of “groove moves.”

Next came the Star Power Champion of 2010, Angeline Quinto, who demonstrated why her singing prowess continues to awe audiences.

Things came to a close with none other than the “Prince of Philippine Drama Series”— Coco Martin. Mr. Martin charmed the audience with a couple of song interpretations, but what truly captured the hearts of the audience were his revelations of life overseas. He told stories of working nine months in Lethbridge, Alberta as he sought a better life in Canada.

A few duets then followed between Coco and Maja, as well as Coco and Angeline, before the curtains were finally drawn. All fans appeared happy and satisfied after the concert, and certainly received their money’s worth of entertainment. During an interview, Ms. Garcia admitted that “we know we are blazing a new trail” but credited Filipino Channel subscribers for helping inspire the concert in the first place.

“We gave what they asked for as a way of thanking them. We also know that they will continue to support us in doing so.”

Garcia added that the near-religious fervour of Filipino soap opera fans helps ensure that almost any concert featuring soap stars will be a guaranteed hit.

According to Garcia, ticket sales were slow at first, but picked up during the final week. In the final tally, 850 out of 1,000 available seats were sold at the Century Casino Auditorium— a staggering success.

When asked what Filipino fans can expect from Pure Talents Entertainment in the near future, Garcia suggested the “Canto Boys” and Anne Curtis were strong possibilities, depending on their ability to resolve scheduling conflicts. ■

Filipino ice carvers return to Banff’s Ice Magic Festival

BY MARIETTA PANGAN-DUTKOSKI

Now in its 18th year, Alberta’s “Ice Magic Festival 2012” is returning to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and is scheduled for two weekends, from January 20 to 29. This year’s world-renowned carvers will be making creations under the theme of “Wordplay” and will feature Filipino sculptors among its 24 contestants vying for prizes in two major categories alongside two popularity votes.

Though Canadian ice carving is obviously a very new trail being blazed by Filipinos in North America, it is nevertheless proving to be another great avenue to showcase the Filipino competitive spirit, skill, talent, and creativity. Who knows how the Philippines will leave its mark on the map this time?

Back in 2011, when the theme was “Magical Madness,” Team Biasas represented Canada/Philippines, and featured members Armando and Ross Biasas. Together, they

brought home major awards and recognitions in each category, including third place in Team Carving, and a solo prize for Ross Biasas for his “One Hour, One Block” sculpture of “The Nymph”. Besides the two major awards, Team Biasas also won both the People’s Choice and Children’s Choice awards.

Team Biasas has certainly set the bar high for Team USA, which features FilipinoAmerican Victor Dagatan as one of its members. During a phone interview, Dagatan expressed great enthusiasm for his chances, and assured he will strive to beat all his past records this year.

Together with the competitive events, interpretive ice carving demonstrations, horse-drawn wagon rides, and an ice skate with the “Ice Queen” will also be available to festival-goers. Special new additions for 2012 include the “Little Chipper Weekend” and a special Ice Playground, where kids of all ages can learn and enjoy the science of ice carving.

The whole festival promises to be a very enjoyable experience for visitors both young and old alike, and best of all—all activities are free.

The Banff Ice Magical Festival is part of Alberta’s “Snow Days,” which is a monthlong celebration of winter in the Rockies. Ice carving has long been one of Canada’s more spectacular winter competitions, allowing competitors to slowly shape, carve, sculpt, chisel, and define frozen masterpieces block by block.

For more details of this event, please visit, www.banfflakelouise.com. ■

GREETINGS On behalf of Burnaby City Council and the citizens of Burnaby, it is my pleasure to bring greetings to the Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. I’m excited to see the Filipino community, third largest visible minority in Canada, launch its first nationwide newspaper. This newspaper will serve not only as a window for the Filipino community to obtain information on politics and economic and cultural issues around the world, but also as a guide for heir life and career opportunities in Canada. The Philippine Canadian Inquirer will also make a significant contribution to the enrichment of Filipino culture and heritage in Canada.

Burnaby is a rapidly growing City and that growth has been built on the contributions of our diverse ethnic communities. The City is proud of our multicultural community which adds richness to the fabric of our society.

Congratulations and best wishes for continued success!

Sincerely,

Derek R. Corrigan MAYOR

A MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR: On behalf of City Council and the citizens of New Westminster, I am very pleased to add my congratulations and best wishes to Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. on the launch of the Canada's first nationwide Filipino newspaper.

Canada is a splendid mosaic shared by a diversity of peoples. Each of our nation's varied cultures and traditions makes an important contribution to the enrichment to Canada's tapestry of cultures is valued and honored by all of us.

The city of New Westminster has had a sister city relationship with Quezon city since 1991. Since then we have treasured the bonds of friendship and shared the heritage, tradition and culture of the Filipino community.

I would like to commend the Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. for your dedication in the production of this Filipino Canadian newspaper that will provide important information and current event coverage not only for our Filipino residents here in New Westminster but the broader community as well. I would also like to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to your readers to visit New Westminster and experience the many attractions found in our historic city.

Sincerely,

Wayne Wright MAYOR

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Showbiz Entertainment • Lifestyle and Lifestyle • Travel

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012

Entertainment www.canadianinquirer.net

‘It’s all about Sunset wedding for Roman, Shalani brilliant pop songs’

BY MARINEL CRUZ AND ALEX VERGARA - Philippine Daily Inquirer

‘Mamma Mia!’ cast vows to make Pinoys sing and dance along to ABBA’S classic hits when the show opens at the CCP.

BY POCHOLO CONCEPCION - Philippine Daily Inquirer SARA Poyzer, who plays one of the lead characters in the longrunning stage musical “Mamma Mia!” which features the music of Swedish pop group ABBA, notes that men generally don’t like “Dancing Queen.” But she has seen how they end up loving the song when they hear it in the play.

“Mamma Mia!” debuted in 1999 at the West End and is currently playing at the Prince of Wales Theatre in London.

Its Broadway production celebrated its 10th anniversary last year. It is said to have been seen by over 50 million people worldwide. Written by Catherine Johnson based on 22 ABBA songs, the musical tells the fictional story of a single mom trying to resolve the dilemma of telling her daughter who her real father is on the eve of the girl’s wedding.

Poyzer and four other cast members of the musical’s international touring production met the press recently to promote the musical which is set to open tomorrow at the Main Theater of the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP).

Asked to compare the stage musical with the film version (starring Meryl Streep), Charlotte Wakefield, who plays Sophie, the daughter, said: “I think the original stage version is more honest.” She pointed to scenes in the film that diverted from the story. Poyzer, who portrays Donna, the mother, added: “As much as I love the film and Meryl Streep, the stage musical has live action and a live band, which makes it more spontaneous.”

Wakefield revealed that she initially failed to make it to the cast and had to reaudition eight times before she finally landed the role. The CCP shows, which will run for four weeks until Feb. 11, consist the final performances of the production’s 14month tour. The cast said they welcomed the news that the tour would end in the Philippines, which they’re all visiting for the first time. They vowed to give Filipinos a show with lots of fun. “There’s emotional depth in the story but it’s not like we’re doing Shakespeare,” said Wakefield. “We have a bloody good time onstage.”

STA. ROSA CITY—A brief kiss but one filled with longing sealed their wedding vows. It didn’t matter that the bride marched down the aisle some 20 minutes late.

Romulo, son of former Foreign Secretary Alberto Romulo and Rosie Lovely Tecson-romulo, arrived at 5:15 p.m. Soledad came minutes later in a white SClass Mercedes-benz.

Valenzuela Councilor Shalani Soledad sealed her union with Pasig City Rep. Roman Romulo at sunset yesterday at St. Benedict Church at the Ayala Westgrove in this industrial city in Laguna.

The principal sponsors were Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario and Gretchen del Rosario; PLDT-SMART-TV 5 chair Manuel V. Pangilinan and Norma Ona; Sen. Panfilo Lacson and Corazon Ong; Emilio Yap and former Las Piñas Rep. Cynthia Villar; Ambassador Antonio Cabangon-chua and Betty Chua; San Miguel Corp. president Ramon Ang and Bettina Aboitiz; Roberto del Rosario and Elizabeth Gan-go; James Sy Gaisano and Lily Lee; Felix Tuikinhoy Jr. and Maria Jessica Bautista; Manuel Dy and Natividad Cheng; and Bench founder Ben Chan and Janet Napoles.

“I’m very happy that I’ve found you,” Romulo, 44, said during the ceremonial exchange of vows.

“I promise to love you from now on until forever,” Soledad, 31, replied.

One of those invited was not around—president Aquino.

Officials said Mr. Aquino was resting on his “private time” in the summer capital of Baguio City when his former girlfriend began her march down the aisle 275 kilometers away.

The wedding capped a whirlwind romance even by today’s standards. Romulo and Soledad were engaged for five months.

BRIDAL GOWN Soledad’s gown, which designer Inno Sotto said was “simple, feminine and elegant,” was a white romantic number with a fitted V-neck top with lace bodice and a skirt made of 17 layers of soft tulle. She wore a pair of shoes by Lila Almario.

Romulo wore a midnightblue tuxedo, a white shirt and a gray bow tie by Hugo Boss and a pair of black leather shoes by Louis Vuitton. The 22 principal sponsors came from the business and political sectors. The Mass lasted over an hour, with not a seat empty in the 500-seat church.

The bride’s mother, Evelyn Soledad Yumol, and uncle Mon Soledad, who looked after the young Shalani while her mother worked overseas, gave the bride away. The bride met her real father only last year.

Soledad was born out of wedlock to banker and businessman Adolfo Aguirre and Evelyn San Ramon, a flight attendant.

While her mother worked, the young Soledad grew up with her grandparents, aunt and uncles. Her mother never brought up the subject of her biological father, whom Soledad met only after 30 years.

Soledad wore a Kate Middleton-inspired gown with a lace bodice, tulle skirt and off-shoulder neckline with tiny cap sleeves. The bride’s face was shrouded in a thin layer of tulle.

The look was simple yet elegant, calling to mind Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton’s lacey wedding gown when she married Prince William of Britain.

Poyzer zeroed in on the music: “It’s all about the songs.

People love ABBA. These are brilliant pop songs.”

Wakefield said that, among the songs she performs in the show, “Name of the Game” is her personal favorite, pointing out that it comes at a crucial part of the story. Rosie Heath, another cast member, singled out “Knowing Me, Knowing You” which is sung by one of the three men who is Sophie’s real father.

But Shalani chose to show off her arms instead of covering them. The wedding invitation, made from an off-white paper material, had an embossed “RS” insignia, which stood for the couple’s initials.

Poyzer said she expects to see the audience at the CCP singing and dancing along, even as she told the INQUIRER in an earlier interview before a performance in Manchester that ABBA became unfashionable in the 1980s— and that her personal faves then were Metallica and Megadeth! ■

The wedding ceremony, described as simple and solemn, began at 5:45 p.m., with Gaudencio Cardinal Rosales, Bishop Mylo Hubert Vergara, Rev. Msgr. Bartolome Santos Jr. and Rev. Fr. Isagani Avinante officiating. What took months to prepare was soon over. Cardinal Rosales commanded the groom, in jest, to “now take over.” Roman gladly did and planted a kiss on the bride’s waiting lips.

After waiting for Soledad for 20 minutes, the guests at the church heaved a collective gasp at the sight of the resplendent bride emerging before them for her march.

Romulo’s best friend, J. Antonio Cabangon, was the best man while Joy Marie Castellvi was the matron of honor. Romulo’s groomsmen were his brother Erwin, Davao del Norte Rep. Antonio Lagdameo, Ilocos Norte Rep. Rodolfo Fariñas, George Rafael Lorenzana and Dante Soliven.

Soledad’s bridesmaids were Catherine May Hervas, Annaliza Jacinto, Ma. Lourdes Romero, Monica Garcia and Diamond Villar. The entourage also consisted of 21 flowers girls.

Broadcaster Karen Davila and Leyte Rep. Lucy Torres-gomez, wife of actor Richard Gomez, were gospel readers at the Mass.

Yesterday’s reception was held at Evolving Center Dockside of the nearby Nuvali, also in Sta. Rosa. In lieu of gifts, Soledad and Romulo had asked their guests to donate to the victims of the deadly Tropical Storm “Sendong.”

P-NOY’S MESSAGE An online news report earlier said President Aquino would not attend the wedding but would send a gift “bought by his staff.” He had wished the couple a happy life together.

“What is the message?” the President said recently. “The emphasis has always been to strengthen the family. We believe that a lot of the solutions to the problems of the country will be best addressed by a family that is strong, united and caring to the children that they bring.”

Actress-tv host Kris Aquino, who was not at the ceremony either, wished the couple “good health … and all of God’s blessings in the years to come.” She also said: “I’ll echo what P-noy said, may both of them continue to be instruments of true public service.”

“We thought Roman would not be able to find that person he can be with all his life,” said actress Dawnzulueta. “He finally did and I think Shalani is perfect for him.”

FAMILY HEIRLOOM Shortly before the ceremony, Romulo’s mother Lovely said the diamond engagement ring that Romulo gave Soledad in September was a family heirloom.

“I’ve had it for a while. I didn’t know it would end up with Romanwhen I had it taken out of the bank,” she said.

The guests savored such dishes as Angus beef, chicken binakol soup and cheesecake made of queso de bola prepared by caterer Florabel Co. Penk Ching and Shen Ratilla did the cake.

Co chose Angus beef because the couple are said to be fond of tapsilog, the complete Filipino everyman’s meal consisting of tapa, or strips of cured beef, fried rice and egg usually cooked sunny side up. Co included “dirty” ice cream on the menu, as the bride had asked for it. ■

A VERY WARM WELCOME AND CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

PHILIPPINE CANADIAN INQUIRER Treenee Lopez GLOBAL PINOY DIASPORA CANADA

Saturnino de Yro CIRCULO CAGAYANO Joel Castillo ARITAO ASSOCIATION OF SEATTLE-VANCOUVER Freddie Bagunu FILIPINO SENIORS CLUB OF BC George and Cely Gutierrez SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY ALUMNI ASSOCIATION Felipa Garcia FILIPINO ASSOCIATION OF BC Amado Mercado CAN-PHIL GOLF ASSOCIATION Angie Igonia MHHS-SAMPAGUITA SENIORS Narima dela Cruz SURREY PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY SOCIETY Cris Sotana NEGRENSES ASSOCIATION OF BC. Lita Nuguid FILIPINO FRIENDS IN RICHMOND SOCIETY Rene Garrucho ANCOP INTL CANADA INC. Luchi Lirio BATANGAS CLUB OF BC Jay Razon FILIPINO PLAZA SOCIETY Leo Cunanan, Jr. SEVEN LAKES (SAN PABLO) ASSOCIATION

Elena Agala WARAY CANADA ASSOCIATION Nora Kirby/Annette Beech VICTORIA FILIPINO CANADIAN CAREGIVERS ASSOCIATION Sid Emmanuel VICTORIA BAYANIHAN COMMUNITY CENTER Fred Bartulabac VICTORIA FILIPINO CANADIAN SENIORS ASSOCIATION Dominga Passmore VICTORIA BAYANIHAN COMMUNITY CENTER Rey Yapyuco FRASER VALLEY FILIPINO ASSOCIATION Matilde Lim CIRCULO PAMPAGUENO John del Rosario CIRCULO ILONGO ASSOCIATION OF BC Perla de Peralta FILIPINO-CANADIAN NEW ERA SOCIETY OF BC Rene Alcantara SIMPLY THE BEST Luisa Marshall CATANDUANES INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION John Halani VANCOUVER MULTICULTURAL SOCIETY Jim Foo VANCOUVER SINGAPORE CLUB Violet Chan ASIAN ANGELS SOCIETY Carmelita Salonga Tapia ASIAN HEROES CANADA FOUNDATION

Entertainment

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 28

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And now, Pinays in ‘Bourne Legacy’ It won’t be the first Hollywood movie for these three character actors

BY BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR. - Philippine Daily Inquirer Apart from acclaimed stage and film thespians John Arcilla and Lou Veloso, other Filipino actors have been tapped for short roles in Tony Gilroy’s film “The Bourne Legacy,­”— currently shooting in the country. According to TV reports, veteran theater, film and TV actresses Madeleine Nicolas, Ermie Concepcion, Lilia Cuntapay and several more were hired for various parts in the Hollywood action thriller. Movie fans may not be familiar with their names, but these three Pinays have built a formidable filmography consisting of local and foreign productions. Cuntapay, who also works as a talent coordinator, told the Inquirer that she did her best during the auditions. “I was interviewed by the director and the producer. They were nice.”

THE CALLBACK Nicolas recounted in an earlier interview that she didn’t expect to reach the final round of tryouts. “I came prepared for the callback. I wore the required costume and brought props—I was so nervous. But it turned out that it was just an interview with the director.” She couldn’t believe it when she made the final cut. “There were so many good actors who tried out.”

Cuntapay recalled that she was in —“Brokedown Palace,” “Delta Force 1”, and “Delta Force 2.”­— And so she is used to the work system in international productions. “If they say your call time is 4 a.m., you better be there on the dot, ready to work.” and unlike on local movie sets where you can chat incessantly with friends, she said, “It’s best to remain quiet on the set of a foreign movie, and talk only when there’s a need to.” She won best actress at the Cinema One fest last year for “Six Degrees of Separation from Lilia Cuntapay,” a

documentary of sorts. But, she said, years of working as a bit player in local and international movies have taught her to keep her feet firmly on the ground. “Who is Lilia Cuntapay anyway?

I’m just a working actress. I work hard because I respect my profession and I respect myself,” she said. Actually, she has a cult following on account of her signature aswang roles in local horror flicks.

NO SNAPSHOTS In “Brokedown,” Concepcion shared a scene with lead stars Claire Danes and Kate Beckinsale. “I played an inn keeper,” she said. “But if you blinked, you might’ve missed me.” She failed to take snapshots with Danes and Beckinsale. She explained, “We were told not to take pictures on the set. I follow rules.”

Nicolas played a doctor in Sidney J. Furie’s “Going Back,” starring Casper Van Dien. “The work hours were reasonable,” Nicolas said of the Vietnam war movie. “The foreigners were very professional. The scriptwriter sat down with us to discuss the film. After shooting my scene, the director, scriptwriter and assistant director took turns shaking my hand and thanked me for working with them.”

Concepcion recalled that, on the set of “Brokedown,” the production had provided her with her own trailer—a 10-wheeler truck equipped with a bed, toilet, air conditioner, and a refrigerator packed with food and drinks. “I had to ask the assistant director if I could eat the food in the ref. I didn’t want to get charged. He said I should feel free to finish off all of it,” she recalled. The trailer’s door bore her name, and whenever she walked to the set, an assistant followed her, carrying her

bathrobe. “I felt like a princess.”

MANY AUDITIONED Nicolas, who is also in the cast of Brillante Mendoza’s Berlin-bound indie film, “Captive,” was elated that a lot of theater actors had been asked to audition for “Bourne.” “It will definitely have a positive impact on the local film industry,” she said. “It will provide more opportunities for Filipino actors and the production and creative staff as well.” Concepcion and Cuntapay said that Philippine Film Studios, the local company working with the Hollywood team, has utmost faith in Filipino actors.

PROFESSIONALS ALL “No doubt, there is a wealth of talents in our country,” Nicolas concurred. “We could learn from the foreigners, and vice versa. We may have a different way of doing things, but we are professionals, too—creative, resourceful, and hardworking.”

She could only guess why the Philippines had been chosen over Indonesia and Vietnam as a location for “Bourne Legacy.”

“Perhaps they found the Filipinos friendly, hospitable, cooperative, and charming.”

She expressed optimism that the “Bourne” experience would be fruitful for everyone concerned. “I am certain that [the foreigners] will appreciate the abilities of Filipino technicians and artists. After this, I hope that more international films will be shot here,” she said. ■

VIEWFINDER

How to defend ourselves against dubious ‘awards’

BY NESTOR U. TORRE - Philippine Daily Inquirer ’TIS THE season to be jolly—especially for so-called winners of dubious Tv-film “awards.” There are legit awards and deserving winners, but they are in the distinct minority, since many awards groups have been cropping up to take advantage of the viewing public’s being greatly impressed with show biz honors—and stars’ determination to win by hook or by crook.

What about the clueless viewing public’s welfare? If they implicitly believe that all awardees do excellent and exemplary work, what will be their standards for admirable performances, directing, scripting, hosting, etc.?

And if those standards are flawed or fake, what about the few good artists in the trade —how can they be truly and legitimately honored and thanked?

MIND THE MOTIVES To defend them and ourselves, those of us who value genuine and deserved touchstones of excellence should be on guard against the many snake-charmers and “fakecharmers” out there and train ourselves to separate the valid from the bogus honor.

To do our bit, we now agree to judge only few legit competitions. We used to judge many more but we stopped, because other groups are less clueless and inept, but have perverted their selection process so that their prized “honors” can go to the highest bidders.

A third group doesn’t even bother to select their “winners” properly or comprehensively —instead of viewing all of the deserving or eligible productions, they watch only a few of them, or go by the “suggestions” of “experts” who turn out to be not very knowledgeable at all—and come up with subjective choices mainly to please friends or clients.

SEE THE SIGNS There is a fourth group that comes up with incredible awards, but it is in the minority. All the more reason, then, for us to learn how to separate their legit choices from the tainted “awards.”

What are those signs of legitimacy and objective reliability?

Analyze the group’s membership. If it’s made up of genuine experts who can’t be seduced, induced or bought, that’s a good sign.

Next, look at the group’s track record. Have its past awards held up through the years? Is its selection process truly comprehensive?

If it seeks to honor the best work in the entire year, has it in fact viewed and reviewed the year’s best output—or does it merely go by producers’ picks or only a smattering thereof?

Legit groups are not there to make well-connected stars and producers happy, but to set objective standards of excellence for viewers to believe in and go by—period.

If an awards group meets those rigorous standards, go ahead and believe in its choices. A good followup is to go out of your way to watch the “winning” productions, and see if you concur with the awards group’s decisions.

What do you do if awards turn out to be dubious, spurious and undeserved? Take them with a ton of salt, disrespect them—and refuse to allow them to shake the integrity of your hopefully more objective and informed perception. ■

Entertainment 4 Pinoy indies now in Berlinale

BY BAYANI SAN DIEGO JR.- Philippine Daily Inquirer

Maverick filmmaker competes with a short in Germany and debuts a full feature in the Netherlands LAST time the Filipino contingent at the Berlin International Film Festival was this big was four years ago, said maverick filmmaker Khavn de la Cruz, who’s fielding his work, “Pusong Wazak,” in the short film competition of the Berlinale, which runs from Feb. 9 to 19.

In 2008, there were six Filipino films at the Berlinale, “mostly in the Forum section,” he recounted, including his surrealist feature “The Muzzled Horse of an Engineer in Search of Mechanical Saddles.”

This year, there will be four Pinoy films in different divisions: Brillante Ma. Mendoza’s “Captive” in the main section; Rommel Tolentino’s “Nono” in Generation Kplus; Marlon Rivera’s “Ang Babae sa Septic Tank” in the Forum; and De la Cruz’s “Pusong Wazak” in the Shorts.

PAT ON THE SHOULDER “It’s further proof of Filipino excellence in cinema,” he said.

“And for me, it’s another pat on the shoulder.”

He related that a German friend once lamented the minimal government support for the Filipino films at the Berlin fest four years ago: “It was a pity, my friend said, because we might not be able to have that many films in Berlin again. But this year, history repeats itself.”

Berlin is a significant, sentimental homecoming for De la Cruz, too.

“It’s the first time for a Filipino to compete in the Shorts section,” he pointed out. The Berlinale is the “first European festival I attended, in 2004,” as a participant at the Berlin Talent Campus. “It’s cool to be back. It’s interesting and intensely rewarding because ‘ Pusong Wazak’ was made simply on impulse. It just needed to be created.”

He has a strong connection to the fest and the city. Six years ago, he brought “Mondomanila” to Berlin as part of the Coproduction Market. A year later, he screened his short “Can & Slippers.” Three years ago, he was part of the Shorts jury.

TOURIST STUFF Next month, he intends to fly to Berlin to “have fun and meet up with friends from Europe and beyond.” He plans to do “touristy stuff, like visit the Jewish Museum. I still don’t

know the place.” Dela Cruz hopes his screenings will be “well-attended and that the audience will be moved in the right places.”

He explained that “Pusong Wazak,” which tells the love story of a criminal and a prostitute, follows universal themes.

“Everyone has a broken heart and everyone wants to fix it.

Not everyone gets to… so in the meantime, they get a fix elsewhere.”

ROTTERDAM LINK He is grateful to friends who helped him finish “Wazak”—“the cast and crew and my coproducer, Urian best actress winner Fe Gingging Hyde.”

Before heading to Berlin, De la Cruz’s full-length feature film, “Mondomanila,” will have its world premiere at the 41st Rotterdam (The Netherlands) International Film Festival, which runs from Jan. 25-Feb. 5.

Rotterdam, he noted, was among the “first major festivals in Europe to pay serious attention to Philippine and Southeast Asian cinema,” in 2005. De la Cruz has a long list of films that have been shown there, from “The Family That Eats Soil” to “Kommander Kulas.”

He said “Mondomanila,” the culmination of a decade’s worth of work, will give foreign audiences “a glimpse into the iceberg that is the Philippines… Why are we poor? Why are we sick?”

“Pusong Wazak” and “Mondomanila” are different and similar at the same time, he noted. “Both reflect who I am now as a filmmaker… my kaning baboy, halo-halo mash-up aesthetics.”

Apart from “Mondomanila,” five other Filipino films will be shown at the Rotterdam fest. Having its world premiere in the Spectrum section is Lav Diaz’s “Florentina Hubaldo, CTE.” Diaz will likewise screen his “Century of Birthing” in the same section, along with Raya Martin’s “Buenas Noches, España.”

Also in the lineup are Jet Leyco’s “Ex Press” and “Patlang.”

Aside from movie, book and music projects in the works, Dela Cruz is shooting the film opera “Kalakala,” to raise funds for the victims of Tropical Storm Sendong in Cagayan de Oro. “I will use Bienvenido Lumbera’s translation of TS Eliot’s ‘The Waste Land’ and feature Joey Ayala’s voice in the soundtrack,” he said.

Charice’s ma Raquel turns ‘18, not 40’

BY POCHOLO CONCEPCION - Philippine Daily Inquirer THE APPEARANCE of her daughter Charice eclipsed the frivolous trappings for birthday girl Raquel Pempengco’s party celebrating her turning 40 (“I’m not 40… I’m 18 with 22 years experience,” said the invitation) on Saturday night at Terrazas de Teodora, a resort in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

Mommy Raqz, as Raquel is known in the biz, made her grand entrance accompanied by son Carl and a close friend, Robin Sorosoro.

Like a debut, the program included presentations of 18 roses, 18 candles and 18 wishes to Mommy Raqz—whose estranged husband, Ricky, was stabbed to death on Oct. 31, 2011.

There was also a cotillon, where she danced with “18 men closest to her heart,” led by Robin.

The absence of invited guests Boy Abunda, Karen Davila, Charo Santos, Kris Aquino and other celebrities was said to be due to the late delivery of the invitations, which were sent only a day before the event.

But no matter. Charice made it worthwhile by singing “Louder,” a track from her new CD, as her mom sat on center stage. Earlier, a photo montage of Mommy Raqz and her two kids taken in various locations were shown, with Charice singing “Wind Beneath My Wings” in the background. ■

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 30

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DOLLYWOOD

Rico J should know TV shows come and go

BY DOLLY ANNE CARVAJAL- Philippine Daily Inquirer I didn’t get to watch the “Happy Yipee Yehey” episode when one of its co-hosts, Rico J. Puno, reacted unfavorably to my column where I wrote that the show is folding up soon. Wellmeaning friends just told me about it. According to them, Rico J said, “Huwag mong pangunahan ang network.”

But news is news. And as long as you get your facts straight, it’s not a crime to write about something ahead of the rest.

There’s no such thing as wrong timing if your story is right.

Having been in the biz for so long, Rico must know by now that TV shows come and go. Maybe he is still in denial. Instead of giving a message to Rico, let me paraphrase his signature song, “Kapalaran.” “Bakit ba ganyan ang buhay sa show biz/ Isang araw may show ka, sa sunod ay wala na/Kapalaran kung hanapin ’di matagpuan/At kung minsa’y naunahan ka sa balitang ’di mo alam/Bakit kaya may ligaya’t lumbay/Sa show biz, may bigo’t tagumpay/’Di malaman, ’di maisip/Kung anong network, Rico, sa iyo ay naghihintay.”

Instead of harping on the end of “HYY,” maybe Rico should focus his attention on his love child with a younger singer who’s craving his love and affection. Shows are temporary, children are forever.

PINOY AT HEART It was such a thrill to meet David Archuleta of “American Idol” fame. I visited the set of “Nandito Ako,” his dramaserye with TV5, on its first taping day. As soon as we were introduced, he hummed “Hello Dolly” and said it’s one of his favorite songs.

I got to listen to his version of “Nandito Ako.” I was pleasantly surprised that he sang it in almost perfect Pinoy diction. He is also set to record its English version, “Forever With You” (as translated by the song’s composer, Aaron Paul).

He’s a fan of Regine Velasquez, so there are plans for him to meet her and Ogie Alcasid as well. I’m sure Ogie will like David’s version of his hit song, “Nandito Ako.” Direk Mac Alejandre said David is such a delight to work with. “He knows what’s expected of him. And he’s a perfectionist. Siya mismo ang gustong umulit ng eksena if he feels he can do more. If only he could stay here longer, it would be great to do a movie with him. For a first-time actor, he’s a natural.” The Archuleta fever has spread across Asia. Fans from neighboring countries are even flying in to watch his tapings. David’s fans from all over Asia will be included in the concert scene of his teleserye (Visit followarchuleta.ph and follow TV5manila@twitter.com.).

He took time out from his hectic schedule to attend a Mormon service last Sunday. After his three-week stay here, he is off to Singapore, before going on a two-year hiatus to fulfill his religious mission. While shooting, David is not comfy when there are too many people around because it distracts him. There were five bodyguards assigned to keep an eye on him, but he requested to trim it down to three. He is allowed to work only for 12 hours a day, and he has to rest for the next 12 hours before he resumes work (in compliance with the rules of the Actors Guild, of which he is a member). Be that as it may, David is surely turning into a Goliath in the hearts of Pinoys.

SHUT OFF Pauleen Luna has deactivated her Twitter account. Could it be her way of evading queries and tirades about her and Vic Sotto, even as she and Bossing are mum about their rumored romance? Who was Oyo Boy Sotto alluding to with his tweet, “Maraming mukhang pera diyan”? Tweet and sour!

PERSONAL: Daghang salamat to my ever dependable friend in Cebu, Albert Ceniza, for his kind assistance over and beyond the call of friendship. ■

Entertainment

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 32

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WITHOUT BATTING AN EYELASH

New must-have mobiles; new shoe line modeled by none other than Anne Curtis

BY MAURICE ARCACHE- Philippine Daily Inquirer It was an awesome celebration when world-renowned Nokia unveiled its latest dual SIM mobile phones, the must-haves X101 and C2-00, dahlings. Moi noticed the invitees were rolling off their chairs and cracking up till the show’s end, thanks to the incredible hosting skills of TV personality Ruby Rodriguez and her “twin,” comedy-bar sensation Petite, no less. The “double Rubies” were in keeping with the dual theme of this superhappening, palanggas.

The Nokia X1-01 and Nokia C2-00 pack more memory, better battery life, and tons of SIM entertainment, plus five separate SIM cards that can be personalized with SMS or data settings.

The brand ambassador of the new phones is comedian Vic “Bossing” Sotto.

“Only Nokia can offer dual SIM phones without compromising on features and fun,” said Nikka Abes, Nokia’s corporate communications manager. “They pack all other exciting features making them doubly fun, and all at affordable prices.”

Twenty lucky guests who registered early got the chance to swap two of their old mobile phones with a brand-new Nokia dual SIM phone, dahlings. You’ll absolutely go for it!

MARKETING FIRM WINS AWARD

GeiserMaclang Marketing Communications Inc. hosted a thanksgiving dinner for Filipino winners of the International Business Awards, also known as the “Stevies,” at the popular Cav Café. The original awarding ceremony had been held in

Abu Dhabi. GeiserMaclang was made “distinguished honoree” for the category, Communications Campaign of the Year— Marketing-Consumer Products,” for Unilab Alaxan’s “Aray ko, Galing ko” campaign. “GeiserMaclang is the first Filipino agency to be recognized in what’s considered as the Oscars of the business world,” said Amor Maclang, the vivacious director for communications of GeiserMaclang. She added that because of the distinction, the Philippines is “emerging to be a hotbed for marketing communications and digital marketing in Asia and the world.”

The same distinction was given to San Miguel Corp., PJ Lhuillier Inc. and Philip Morris Manufacturing Inc. The Philippine companies competed with those from 35 other countries, including first-time winners Bahrain, Peru, Saudi Arabia, and Slovakia. GeiserMaclang is a social marketing company, “known for unique strategies that are grounded on transformative social insights,” said Maclang. “It’s one of the first firms in Asia to pioneer PR as an enterprise solution for challenging business objectives. GeiserMaclang’s core mission is simple: Do well, do good!” Take your well-deserved bow, dahlings. Bravo! Visit www.geisermaclang.com, geisermaclang on Facebook and Twitter.

PRIMADONNA

Women in fashionable outfits and a handful men had a blast when the Primadonna shoe brand unveiled its new collection during the “Primadonna Girls Night Out.” During the launch, Primadonna welcomed its new endorser, gorgeous Anne Curtis, fresh from her “No Other Woman” triumph in the box-office.

A total style chameleon, Curtis continues to inspire millions of her followers with her effortless flair for fashion, palanggas.

She sported the four looks of the new collection: “Rock and Roll,” bringing out one’s sense of fashion rebellion; “Prim and Proper,” featuring dainty pairs; “Androgynous,” for adventurous women; and “Retro”, hippie shoes for that sexy, bohemian vibe.

My palangga Divine Lee introduced Anne to the crowd.

Asked about her style philosophy, Anne said, “I go for the classic, as this fashion never goes out of style.” Check out Primadonna in its 42 outlets nationwide, including SM malls. Visit www. primadonna.com.ph; facebook.com@ primadonnashoesofficial and twitter.com@primadonnaPH.

BIRTHDAY BASH FOR IMAGE MAKER

Some people get together lavishly in glitz and glamour, others feast over simple meals shared in one table. Then there are celebrations held for the mere love of that one person you refer to as a true “friend.” Such was the birthday bash for Arnold Vegafria, palanggas, a byword in show biz where he’s an image maker. It was superbly organized by his pals outside show biz.

It was his nth birthday bash for the year, in fact, as other groups had treated him already. This time it was held at one of my favorites, Dusit Thani Manila’s excellent Japanese restaurant Umu. Some 35 of ALV’s closest pals gathered for loads of laughs and for great company, topped off with a smorgasbord of fine sushi, sashimi and robata. For the perfect ending, sweet awesome giveaways of divine Villa del Conte chocolates were flown all the way from Italy, and distributed to Arnold’s friends by businessman Vince Aldanese, with wife Rhoda Campos of Rustan’s by his side, dahlings. More than just a birthday bash, it was a celebration of friendship.■

Your future is in your face

Dadhichi Toth got into face reading because his female astrology clients refused to tell him their real age.

BY WALTER ANG - Philippine Daily Inquirer “In 2012, something amazing is happening in the Philippines,” said Dadhichi Toth. “There is a spiritual shift that is going on that stems from the ‘mother energy.’

“The Philippines is traditionally a spiritual nation. With the movement of the solar system through high-energy sectors of our Milky Way galaxy, this spiritual or ‘mother’ energy will be quickened here. Many people from other nations will be drawn to these spiritual powers as well. This will, therefore, bring greater prosperity to this country. This is an intuitive and unconscious attraction much like the attraction of the West to India in the ’60s and ’70s.”

He points out that, regardless of what the energies or qualities will be for the year, “where’s there’s a good heart, there’s a good destiny. What you sow is what you reap.”

We met up with Toth late last year to learn his forecasts for the year. When we sat down, he stared at our face and proceeded to say things about us that he couldn’t possibly have known. “I always do that with media people to show them that I mean business.”

Toth is a face reader. His skills are the result of studying different disciplines of face reading from China, India, and

other countries. “I’m also slightly clairsentient,” he says. “I am sensitive to certain components of a person.”

He partly got into face reading because his female astrology clients refused to reveal their age—a crucial piece of information for casting birth charts. Toth is an astrologer, too.

He is adept at both Western and Eastern/Vedic astrology and has written annual astrology forecast books.

FORECASTS Toth is based in both Sydney and Manila. His father is a Hungarian gypsy with knowledge of palmistry and astrology.

His mother, who was from Malta, read him Linda Goodman’s “Sun Signs” at bedtime instead of the usual children’s storybooks.

For fun, we showed Toth photos of some well-known “Filipino faces” to get his forecasts for them. He hardly knew any of them, save for Manny Pacquiao.

PRESIDENT BENIGNO AQUINO III “He has a high forehead, which means a great deal of intelligence. His eyebrows are not well-directed, which means he may rely too much on the experts around him. His lips show a strong appetite for pleasure or the finer things in life. He may have difficulties holding on to his post this year. If he does, it will be a rough ride, especially after August.”

LEA SALONGA “Her eyes show that she has a high level of specialization. She has a charming smile and her eyebrows tell us that she thinks outside the box.”

MANNY PACQUIAO “His eyebrows show he’ll be successful in political endeavors.

The mark on his chin is almost like the one that Arnold Schwarzenegger has.” (Toth didn’t know that Pacquiao is already an elected government official.)

“He’s the sort of guy who wants to win, but his speech may get him into trouble. The mole on his face is an indication that he should be more careful when he’s helping others.”

CHARICE PEMPENGCO “She’s lighthearted, but balanced by a lot of endurance and stubbornness. Her chin is similar to Reese Witherspoon’s chin; this shows that she’s thrifty. She will have big decisions to make when she’s around 40 to 44.”■

Toth will be giving lectures on face reading and/or astrology in 2012. Contact dadhichiastro@gmail.com.

Congratulations

To Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. We are pleased that PCI will be distributed nationwide and is the first of its kind. http://www.sprottshaw.com/

Lifestyle KNOCKOUT

Give your skin a break from the holiday break

BY RIA FRANCISCO-PRIETO - Philippine Daily Inquirer The holidays have been great, but, in all honesty, I need a break from this break. The preparations, dinners, and all the little things in-between have taken its toll on me—not to mention my skin. It feels tight and looks dull. I figured all the makeup and late nights in a week can’t be good for anyone, especially our skin.

Luckily, when it comes to the skin, a little attention goes a long way. With some pampering, not only will our skin feel better, it also makes us feel rested and on-the-go again.

MOISTURIZE. At the end of the day, it is very important

to cleanse away all makeup from our face. Use a good eye makeup remover so not to rub the eyes. I suggest using Lancôme Bi-Facil, one of the mildest and fastest eye makeup removers out there. After this, moisturize. You may skip the toner if you have dry skin, but even the oiliest of skin needs to moisturize. Just remember to use products according to your skin type to get the best results. Also, consider your age. At 35 years old, you may already want to use anti-aging products.

Even your feet can suffer from wearing those five-inch heels for too long. Bust out that petroleum jelly and spread it on your feet. Wear thick socks and go to bed. If your hands are dry, do the same and wear cotton gloves. Using petroleum jelly on your hands and feet while you sleep takes getting used to, but you will be happy you did so when you get up. You will forget the slight discomfort once you’ve experienced the result.

EXFOLIATE. Dead skin leaves our complexion looking

dull, but this can be solved by exfoliating. There are a lot of products available in the market that you can use on your face and body. I enjoy using Kiehl’s Rare Earth Deep Pore Daily Cleanser on my face, and Crème de Corps Soy Milk and Honey Body Polish on my body, to remove dead skin. Using a wash cloth or loofah also works. Exfoliating brings out new skin, which is smooth to the touch. It also makes lotions and oils more effective.

MASSAGE. Getting a massage is relaxing, and is something we more often than not forget to treat ourselves to a massage is good for circulation and is also very relaxing. While you’re at it, get threading and a mani-pedi, too, if you have time.

HOME RECIPES. The kitchen is also a great place to get ingredients for some home remedies. Here are some I’ve tried and tested.

BODY SCRUB. One cup of brown sugar, half a cup of olive oil, and a little ground ginger. Mix all into a paste. Using a circular motion, scrub on the body, concentrating on the elbows, knees, and feet. Rinse using a wash cloth, then dry. You will get supple, less dry skin. While still damp, moisturize to get the best results.

Facial moisturizer (good for sensitive skin). Mix evaporated milk and water, ratio 2:1. Leave inside refrigerator. Use cotton balls to apply on face. Leave on for about three minutes, then wash off with tepid water. This will leave you with smooth, supple skin.

Facial mask (for normal to oily skin). Use two egg whites mixed with ¼ fresh orange juice. Apply on skin and rinse out with warm water once the solution dries. It has a tightening and brightening effect on your skin.

OATMEAL FOR FACIAL MASK

For sensitive skin, mix oatmeal with boiling water. Let cool, then leave on face for 15 minutes. Rinse with warm water. This will leave your skin with a radiant glow. Most of the time, that extra five minutes you allot for yourself will go a long way.

Try it! ■

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 34

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How to lose weight through aqua aerobics

BY MARGE C. ENRIQUEZ - Philippine Daily Inquirer AFTER GIVING birth to her first child, Alexandra “Xandra” Ramos Padilla, general manager of Crossings Department Store, worked out her post-natal weight gain through aqua aerobics.

Under swimming instructor Sharon Caoili’s program, she lost 10 lbs in three months, coupled with eschewing dessert and potato chips as part of her Lenten sacrifice then.

During pregnancy with her second child, Padilla continued aqua aerobics, with classical Pilates. A study has reported that moderate exercise during pregnancy reduces a woman’s need for pain relief when she delivers her baby. The researchers noted that aqua aerobics has helped women to prepare emotionally and physically for the rigors of child birth. Although Padilla had a caesarian delivery, she went back to work in a month, much faster than women who don’t have a fitness routine.

Caoili, who keeps track of Padilla’s measurements, noted that she lost two inches each from the waist and abdomen, an inch each from the hips and the arms in one month. “I can tuck in my shirts and put on the belt,” says Padilla. From size 8, she is slipping to size 6.

PREFERRED WORKOUT Once the domain of people of a certain age, aqua aerobics or water-based fitness is becoming a preferred workout of people who want to get in shape quickly.

For younger people, it complements an intense workout, yet burns between 500-700 calories per session. Done in a shallow pool, the workout consists of a cardiovascular warm-up such as jumping, kicking and jogging across the pool, stretches to prepare the muscles, exercises focusing on certain body parts and a cooldown. One has to push the body through the water and work against its resistance.

This is why the workout is 12 times more vigorous than land aerobics, says Caoili. Unlike land aerobics, which targets certain muscle groups that are working against gravity, aqua aerobics engages all the muscle groups simultaneously.

“Water pressure adds intensity to the cardiovascular system and enables working out beyond one’s capacity. Thus, more calories are burned,” says Caoili.

Since the buoyancy of water assists 90 percent of the body, anyone can do water-based exercises, regardless of fitness or fatness levels, age and health conditions. Caoili’s programs ares designed to meet the needs of the clients.

EASY EXERCISE Charina Mercado, an education consultant, learned about aqua aerobics from a cousin who had a slip disc.

As the water supports the body weight, it takes the pain off her cousin’s spine. Hence, it is easier to exercise and build muscle tone. For people not accustomed to exercise, aqua aerobics is a gentler way of strengthening all the major muscle groups and the lungs and heart.

“The exercises are not strenuous. I don’t get out of breath,” says Mercado. Hence, people who aren’t accustomed to exercise get motivated to stick to it. Mercado points out that another benefit is weight stability. In the past, she would go on a diet and gain back the lost pounds because she wasn’t burning enough calories. With these workouts, her weight no longer fluctuates.

The social aspect of aqua aerobics is a plus. Mercado says exercising becomes more pleasurable when done with friends.

Our sincerest wishes in offering our heartiest congratulations!

May this unremitting endeavour in the service of Filipino community Canadawide go on with undiminished vigor.

BUFFERING EFFECT Women of a certain allure such as Ma. Lourdes “Louie” Locsin have other concerns. She says water has a buffering effect that protects the joints. “You can jump up and down and you won’t hurt a fragile limb.”

Fighting the middle-age flab, Locsin has been focusing on strengthening her core. “It is a good way to lose inches since nature reminds you of how old you are. People of a certain age must maintain their health and keep the inches off. Once you let go, it’s difficult to get back in shape.” After a few months, the waistband of Locsin’s pants is beginning to fit. Aside from being joint-friendly, the workout is also convenient. “You can do it anywhere where there’s a pool,” she says.

Congratulations To Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. on their first issue. We are pleased that PCI will be distributed nationwide and is the first of its kind.

http://www.tccbc.ca/

January 18, 2012 On behalf of GMA International, we extend our sincerest congratulations to the Philippine Canadian Inquirer, Inc. for the launching of the Philippine Inquirer newspaper.

We are excited to partner with PCI in its endeavor "to provide the Filipino communities all over Canada with news and features that really matter to them". Our mission at GMA International is to bring Filipinos abroad closer to home by letting them experience valuable and relevant news and entertainment and news; GMA Life TV: Celebrating the best in Pinoy lifestyle; and the GMA News TV International: Kabalitaang tapat at maasahan (Philippines' No. 1 and most trusted news channel).

Like PCI, GMA International is privileged to tell the stories of our kabayans all over the world who continue to bring pride and honor to the country. We commend PCI and Symphony 8 Media & Entertainment for helping strengthen the Filipino community in Canada through the Philippine Canadian Inquirer.

Mabuhay po kayo, mga Kapuso!

Sincerely,

Joseph T. Francia Vice President and Head of Operations GMA International

Lifestyle

Connect with your child

BY FELICHI PANGILINAN-BUIZON A very recent survey was conducted among the grade 6 students of a private school with several branches in Metro Manila. They were asked to identify one thing they want their parents to do more of or less of. The result: 64 percent of 264 students want their parents to either spend more time with them or less time at work. Nami-miss tayo! (We are missed!)

Being a busy parent, if I am not conscious, I can end up neglecting those dearest to me. How often have I told myself, just one more task and I can attend to them, then I entertain another task, then another. Before I know it, the hours have passed. With no clear solution to road congestion, it is not easy for working parents to get home early enough to spend good quality time with their children. In one workshop that my husband and I conducted during a parenting seminar, one father drew a pillow to represent his daughter. Because when he gets home from work, his daughter is fast asleep.

Time to be creative! Like many families, we enjoy watching movies together and eating out, but there are other engaging family time ideas that not only contribute to increased connectivity at home but pave the way for better communication as well. I’d like to share some that our family has tried out and benefited from.

DISCOVER THEIR LOVE LANGUAGE. Each one has his own love language. It is the way we prefer to give and receive love. It is crucial to know the love language of those you love because it is possible to care for them and yet they do not feel cared for. This language is influenced by love received while growing up. For instance, I called my daughter to ask her what she wanted me to bring home as “pasalubong”. I lovingly asked her, “Do you want ice cream? Pastillas? Empanada?” Then she cut me short, “I want you, Mama.” We could be very attentive to them and yet fail to get across. I was giving her gifts but she wanted time with me. If I did not get it then, I could have provoked her to seek fulfillment of that need elsewhere!

A participant in one of our parenting workshops admitted that he failed to see the individuality of his kids and was inclined to father each one in the same way. He was very appreciative of the fact that he got to know his son better that day and acknowledged that there is always room for improving relationships.

Author, Gary Chapman shares five different love languages: Receiving Gifts, Quality Time, Acts of Service, Words of Affirmation, and Physical Touch. You and your children may want to take the profile test at this link so you can identify the channel of love that will make an impact on them. See http:// crcpeninsula.org/Love_Languages_Children_Guiz.pdf. Or, you can just simply ask them, “What makes you feel loved?”

SHARE WHAT THEY ENJOY. There is a story of a father who has noble intentions of reaching out to his son but instead takes his son to do things that he, the father, prefers to do.

The fact that the son is not enjoying makes the father’s efforts ineffective. The son will not be open to appreciating the effort.

Find out what your children enjoy and go along. My daughter loves origami, the Japanese art of paper folding. In the past, we were available to teach her, now, she is the one teaching us!

Once, I commended my husband for making himself available to learn, and recognized his patience at following the step-by-step instructions given by my daughter. To this my daughter responded, “I am the one who is patient with dad!”

Watching movies, wrestling, preparing homemade banana splits, playing card and board games, swimming, lifting weights, hiking, playing lego, treasure hunts, listening to and playing music, playing Pinoy Genio, and so on and so forth. When our kids enjoy with us, they feel at home and are encouraged to open up to share what is in their minds and to receive what is in ours.

WRITE ME A SYMBOL. Periodically, my husband and I gather our four children and we do an exercise. We ask each one to draw a symbol to represent the other. The objective is to see yourself through the lenses of your children so that you get to understand where they are coming from and how they perceive you. Simple drawings are encouraged of any object, animal, or tool that reminds them of each other. We are not to question what has been drawn but rather obtain insight from them.

For instance, my 7-year-old son drew a house to represent me. Why? Because he sees me doing housework often. There was an extended season in our life when we did not have any extra help at home so you can imagine I was all over the house! It was also a signal for me to “chill” more with them because I would not want to send the message that housework was more important to me than them.

I hope you can try these ideas out with your family.

Ask our Heavenly Parent to bless your time together. I would certainly delight in knowing how it worked out. Maybe you have your own big ideas on connecting with your kids. Could you kindly share them with me? I could use new ones! Email me at felichi.buizon@ cbnasia.org ■

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Parenting Joys and Struggles

BY MARIFE SONICO Our decision to make the big move to Canada didn’t come easy. It was my husband’s idea that I resisted for years, struggling to make sense of why it had to be considered in the first place. I felt we were fine in the Philippines, so why move? Slowly though, I had realizations that solidified this plan. I was ready to turn a new leaf.

It was primarily for the family, particularly the kids that sacrifices had to be made. Leaving your comfort zone is always difficult…but I knew at some point it has to happen.

Suffice it to say, we took a big leap of faith, despite all the uncertainties of what’s in store for us.

The more logical reasons for moving to Canada have all been articulated, written and argued in many publications, discussions, or even casual conversations. For most of us who have migrated to Canada, our major considerations were the universal healthcare, economy, environment, education, quality of life, security, and well-being and support for the family, children and seniors among others.

Beyond all the rationale, our decisions are often validated by even ordinary everyday circumstances…

During my early Christmas break from work, I had the chance to see my son eagerly hop on his school bus in the morning. His face was beaming with excitement as he cheerfully greeted their bus driver and school mates and waved at me. Obviously, he loves going to school.

Despite his challenges, he feels included and is given lots of opportunities. Currently, he is learning how to swim and skate and participates in many other leisure activities and learning opportunities.

On the other hand, my daughter has completed her International Baccalaureate (IB) program last year. To say that those past two years have been tough for her is an understatement. The demands of the IB program sent her on an emotional roller coaster ride ranging from frustration and exhaustion to happiness and fulfillment. And while there were times when the pressures were just too much for her to handle, she went through it with such grace and determination and learned many lessons along the way. She is now in university pursuing a business degree.

These snapshots reassure us that we are on the right track, regardless of the challenges that we have and are yet to face.

Most will probably agree that life here in Canada is not a bed of roses. Back home, we were used to having so many extra hands to help us with our daily tasks. The economy also had its share of ups and downs and the past few years have not really been the best, both on a national and global scale.

Despite all the drawbacks, I still believe that this is a better place to raise a family.

Often times we try to vindicate our decision based on financial or career growth. While this may be one relevant gauge, sometimes it is also refreshing to look at it in a different light — those simple life situations that we sometimes consider mundane but actually have a profound impact to the whole family. Simple life, simple joys… ■

It is a great pleasure for S.U.C.C.E.S.S. to celebrate this milestone occasion with the Filipino community at the launch of the maiden issue of the Philippine Canadian Inquirer in Canada. S.U.C.C.E.S.S., one of the largest immigrant and multicultural community services agencies in Metro Vancouver and the largest charitable organization in British Columbia, is proud to be part of the Filipino community and is committed to continue with this community partnership through services and advocacy.

Our vision is “A World of Multicultural Harmony”.

Your community has now established a new media to express the “Voice of the Filipino Canadians”. We offer the Philippine Canadian Inquirer our congratulations and our experience and information support on settlement, adaptation, integration issues and talking about (successful) Living in Canada with your readers.

Thomas Tam, CEO S.U.C.C.E.S.S.

www.successbc.ca

Lifestyle

A Healthy Change It’s not easy being green, but food stylist Bel Alvarez went vegan overnight—and succeeded

Class is in session for our canine best friends

BY BEL BARTOLOME - Initially published in Northern Living and Southern Living magazines

BY RUTH KAIRUZ - Initially published in Northern Living magazine

World-renowned dog behavior specialist Cesar Millan, famous for his television series, The Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan, has this to say about taking care of your dogs: “Be the leader of the pack.” But the question is, how do we act like one? We asked around the local pet schools in the North and discovered helpful tips on how to have a good relationship with a healthy and well-trained dog.

Fearless. That is probably the word that best describes Bel Alvarez and her journey into vegan territory. But as she is quick to say, “I wouldn’t actually consider it a journey because it happened overnight. The rule is simple: Nothing from animals. So I just gave that up.”

Yes, her shift from meat-eater to greenie was that quick–it literally happened overnight. And the decision wasn't due to an ongoing weight issue or a lifelong health concern, mind you.

She simply wanted to challenge herself. While others choose to sacrifice a little by giving up eating sweets for a week or red meat once a month, Bel's decision called for her to change her entire lifestyle. To add to the difficulty of the task that lay ahead of her, she says, “I changed what I ate totally because before I became vegan, I didn’t eat veggies at all.”

in a bit of physical activity during the week by walking from home to the studio. But she admits she could do more, and even shares, “My eldest son Kale, who is a professional athlete, always reminds me to exercise more.”

The new lifestyle she chose wasn't without its challenges. “At the beginning, I missed eating cakes so much, but now I don't anymore. It requires a lot of discipline, but it doesn’t bother me to have non-vegan food in front of me.”

She also credits her photographer-husband Ocs Alvarez's unwavering support in her lifestyle to keep her going.

When asked about how she likes to unwind after a long day, she answers, without batting an eyelash, “Curled up in bed, watching TV with my husband Ocs, or go out with him on a movie date.” It is safe to say that Bel has found purpose, meaning, and fulfillment in the busyness of her life, and she has done so without losing sight of what truly matters.■

Bel spent her formative years living in Okinawa, Japan with her educator parents.

Eventually, they moved back to the country, where they immediately settled in Quezon City.

Bel has never thought of leaving Metro North since then. She shares, “I married my high school sweetheart Ocs and we stayed in Quezon City because our children went to school in the area. But even after they graduated, we opted to still stay here because honestly, we just like it here.”

Like many housewives who experience a sort of “empty-nester” stage, Bel went through a similar phase when her kids slowly became more independent and began to have their own lives separate from their home. Instead of allowing this change to bring her down, she turned it around, by venturing into the unknown­—starting a whole new career at the age of 40. She says, “When the kids grew up I found too much time on my hands, and so Ocs suggested that I style for his food shoots. What started as a pastime eventually became a real career.” Aside from this, Bel also has her blog, which she uses to showcase the recipes she is often asked to develop. “I get gigs to develop recipes, so my blog is an outlet of those recipes that have been featured in magazines and on TV. The recipes there are a mix of meat dishes and vegetarian dishes. Since I can’t taste the non-vegan dishes I prepare, my family becomes the jury, with my youngest son Kurt being the most unmerciful during these taste tests,” she proudly shares.

Having always been supportive of her husband's career, Bel also runs his photography studio, which is located just a few blocks from their home. Leading a healthy life is obviously important, and she finds the time to squeeze

A DOG-GONE EDUCATION

5 Tips for Jumpstarting a Healthy Lifestyle in 2012: 1. You have to want it. If you get into a healthy lifestyle half-heartedly, chances are you will revert to old habits.

2. Prevention is key. It is much better to start a healthy lifestyle because you want to and not because you have to.

3. Choose the diet you like and the exercise you enjoy. Remember, you will be doing these on a daily basis.

4. Find a motivation. When you feel like getting off, remember what motivated you in the first place.

5. If you can, change to a healthy lifestyle together with somebody you care about. You can encourage each other along the way.

CENTERED ON DOGS­Pet behavioral schools or dog obedience centers in the Philippines are not as popular as in other countries because most do not see the need to train the dog or prefer to train the dog themselves. However, with the pet owners’ busy lifestyle, the need for support and service for pets has become an increasing demand.

Says veterinarian Mary Rose Magpily, DVM of Pet Centrics, “I do believe that more dog owners are making inquiries about dog training and dog behavior than before. This tells me that more of my clients see this as an important aspect of raising and keeping a dog.” Whether you have a dog for household security, for business purposes, or simply because you believe one completes a family, you would want your dog to be properly behaved.

STARTING EARLY It’s important to have a trained dog because they should complement and be in harmony with the humans they live with instead of disrupting daily activities and showing unwanted behavior. You should be able to trust your canine even with young children. Especially in a suburban household, it’s important that the pet must be familyfriendly and can be brought outside of the house, such as in a park or pet-friendly mall.

Obedience training for dogs is essential whether it is a small dog like a shih tzu and pug or a large one like a Labrador or Siberian husky. At an early age, puppies should already know house rules and basic good manners such as to sit at attention, to come when called, know where to relieve himself, and not to pull away on his leash during walks. If the puppy is left untrained, unwanted behavior such as damaging household property, or worse, inflicting injury on people may likely be carried on to adulthood. As a result, these kinds of behavior may become difficult to control or modify once the pet is all grown up.

So it’s best to consider enrolling your pets at a pet training school while they are young, as long as the trainer has assessed that they are indeed in the right age to be trained.

CLASS IS IN SESSION The right attitude in getting training for our four-legged friends is first to train the person in charge of the pet. Owners should know the basics in handling them and Dr. Abel Manalo, president of Manalo K9 Technologies International, stresses this by saying, “To live peacefully and happily together requires that the dog is trained to understand the humans, and the humans are trained to understand their dog.”

Ideally, there is guided training first in a center so that humans know where to start. This avoids confusion or frustration on the part of the dog that may become unruly when he cannot understand what his owner wants or

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 38

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needs from him. A center provides a controlled environment with professional trainers that efficiently teach well-structured classes which can continue later on in the home. Classes at a center are usually one to two hours long and last until six to eight sessions depending on the class chosen, while private lessons would be reliant on the trainer’s schedule. Services in a center include basic and advance classes, private or group training and refresher courses.

Some have in-house veterinarians that can conduct consultations and vaccinations for the dog. It may also have a grooming salon, breeding and boarding services for when the owner needs to be out of town for a while. If you would want to have your dog undergo special training for dog sports or for personal protection, you can find selected centers that specialize in these areas.

FINDING FUN IN SCHOOL Training for the pet owner and the dog can be insightful and fun with a good center. Look for one that would interview and assess you and your dog prior to starting the training, which can mean that the trainer would focus on certain behavior or areas of importance. The period of training can be a bonding moment for both human and animal, a recreational activity that promotes exercise and well-being as well. In the long run, living in harmony with your wellbalanced pet would be enjoyable with better communication and a healthy and humane approach. ■

Sticking with your New Year long-term plan If they say “promises are meant to be broken,” this should not be the case for lifechanging resolutions for a new you. Bear these in mind: Remind yourself of the saying “Save for a rainy day.” It’s always better to be prepared. You should have extra funds should there be emergencies especially within the family. Separate needs from wants and make a list that will be your lifetime guide. What you need can also be what you want, but not all that you want are what you really need.

Pick a role model or buddy who can handle finances well. Role models are usually elders within the household who have superb budgeting skills or famous people who have managed to stay away from bankruptcy.

Similarly, having a proactive, finance-savvy buddy provides the motivation to stay wise when it comes to money matters.

We may have heard of this a million times from our parents when we don’t eat all that’s on our plate: think of people who cannot afford the lifestyle that we have now. Don’t waste your money on large quantities of items and make sure to take care of whatever you’ve spent your money on. If you don’t want to go from riches to rags later, monitor closely how you spend for and use your resources. Always know what’s going on with the world. Over the last few years, there have been a lot of reported cases regarding earthquakes, floods, and political turmoil.

Enough (or more than enough) savings and wise investments can make you feel confident and secure in times of difficulty.■

January 19, 2012 Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. Suite 400, North Tower 5811 Cooney Road, Richmond, BC V6X 3M1 Canada Dear PCI Management Team, On behalf the Board of Directors, Members and Staff of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce it is a pleasure to welcome the Philippine CanaJanuary 19,of2012 dian Inquirer Newspaper to Richmond.

Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. We look forward to the first publication of your newspaper and working together for the benefit of not only our business community but our Suite 400, North Tower community asRoad, a whole.

5811 Cooney Congratulations and best Richmond, BC V6X 3M1wishes for a successful launch of your paper and many years of continued success going forward.

Canada Yours truly,

January 19, 2012 Dear PCI Management Team, Philippine Canadian Inquirer Inc. Suite 400,OnNorth behalfTower of the Board of Directors, Members and Staff of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce it is a pleasure to welcome the Philippine Cana5811 Cooney Road, dian Inquirer Newspaper to Richmond.

Craig R. Jones We look forward Richmond, BC V6X 3M1to the first publication of your newspaper and working together for the benefit of not only our business community but our Executive Director community as a whole.

Canada CRJ/cly Congratulations and best wishes for a successful launch of your paper and many years of continued success going forward.

Dear PCI Management Team, Yours truly,

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Members and Staff of the Richmond Chamber of Commerce it is a pleasure to welcome the Philippine Canadian Inquirer Newspaper to Richmond.

We look forward to the first publication of your newspaper and working together for the benefit of not only our business community but our community as R. a whole.

Craig Jones Congratulations and best wishes for a successful launch of your paper and many years of continued success going forward.

Executive Director CRJ/cly

Yours truly,

Congratulations CA

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Lifestyle

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 40

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12 tips to getting fitter and healthier for the new year

BY COACH ARMAND MENDOZA - Initially published in Northern Living magazine

Every new year reminds us to make better changes in our lives to ensure that the coming year becomes better than the last. Here are helpful ideas you can incorporate in your 2012 resolution start-up list.

GET HELP. Highly-qualified personal trainers can help make or break your “New You” plans. They can help you design safe, realistic, and more effective goals as well as renew your motivation towards fitness by introducing new exercise formats to break out of your usual routine.

GET ORGANIZED. Be firm in making time for exercise. Give at least 20-60 minutes a day to a fitness routine.

TRY A NEW WORK OUT. New exercise programs like suspension training, core training, Zumba, and boot-camp workouts are fast becoming popular nowadays. These new exercise formats can give life to your stale fitness routine and renew your interest towards exercise.

FOLLOW-UP NEW YEAR TWEAKS:

PRACTICE FITNESS MULTITASKING. Try to integrate activities that can accomplish fitness benefits along with other obligations. Walking the dog, washing your car, doing the grocery are great ways to move more while being productive at the same time.

Sleep at least 7-8 hours per day for more energy and alertness for the following day.

GO GREEN. Add more veggies and fruits to your plate on every meal.

They improve brain and body functions and help you control your weight better.

MEDITATE. Find regular time to quiet the mind and refocus during the day.

It helps lower your blood pressure, relieves stress, and allows you to make better decisions at work or at home.

THINK OUT OF THE BOX. Find creative ways to be more fit and healthy this year. Try walking all the way to school or work, use water bottles as exercise dumbbells at home, or organize a weight-loss contest at work.

WALK MORE. People walk less nowadays due to improvements in transportation and technology. Since it is still the easiest and cheapest form of exercise, why not start a walking program this 2012?

ICEBOX DETOX. Remove and keep your refrigerator away from unhealthy food like chips and sweets, they always have a possibility of ending up in your tummy even if you don’t intend to eat them today.

Remember, out of sight, out of mind.

Make a healthy weekly menu and try to follow the menu to keep your diet on track.

Have a Plan B to ensure versatility of your health and fitness plan for 2012.

BUDDY BODY TIME. Invite friends and co-workers to exercise and practice healthy habits with you. It can really help if you’re surrounded by people who think “healthy” like you.

APP MY BODY. Try new monitoring tools like software programs or computer applications that can track your fitness or health progress.

Examples are weight trackers, calorie counters, step counters, online food journals and running trackers. These programs/apps help record your progress and remind you if your falling behind or off track.

GEAR OVERHAUL. Refrain from buying fitness gears that are cheap but inappropriate for your body. Beware of some obsolete equipment like sauna suits and neoprene corsets. They have been found ineffective and may lead to an increased risk of injury. ■

Involve family members for better compliance with your efforts.

Replace afternoon chips and sweets with better options like whole wheat crackers or a fruity yogurt. They will help satisfy your cravings and tame your hunger.

Work on a healthy grocery list. This will make sure you don’t run out of the healthy stuff and you keep your supermarket visits away from the junk food aisle and on to the healthy goods.

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Full Page Ad # 12 4 color

Travel-Canada

TUESDAY JANUARY 24, 2012 42

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Winter wonderful in Québec Luxury getaway at Hotel Quintessence

BY MARGO PFEIFF (Courtesy of the Canadian Tourism Commission)

Québec in winter can be a fairy-tale kind of place, especially when you’re cozy under a blanket on a horse-drawn-sleigh-bells-tinkling ride through the forest.

Or catching snowflakes on your cheeks as you skate across a frozen lake lit up at night, finishing with a steaming mug of hot chocolate. All that and much more is on the menu when you check into your suite-with-a-lake-view at theHotel Quintessence in the Laurentian Mountains at the foot of Mont Tremblant, Québec’s premier ski resort. Getting there is a 90-minute drive north of Montréal —or a direct flight from New York City or Toronto.

Just minutes from the bustling ski lifts of Tremblant’s European-styled pedestrian-friendly ski village, Quintessence is a luxury boutique twice named Condé Nast Johansens’ Most Excellent Small Hotel in North America, most recently in March 2011. It’s all about decadence as you pass through the wood paneled lobby with its grand stone fireplace and curving staircase to one of 30 luxury suites catered to by a private concierge. But, being Québec, there is a casual ambience.

The resort delivers a huge range of “quintessential” winter activities: downhill skiing and snowboarding atop Mont Tremblant; snowshoeing; or cross-country skiing on the 150-km network of trails through woods, alongside rivers and lakes and over tiny bridges.If all that sounds like too much work, slip into a sled and let the dogs do the panting, hop a helicopter ride over the winter landscape or zoom a snowmobile through a winter playground on a guided excursion.

In the dining room and wine bar, chef Jean-François Lalandec transforms local Québec products into gourmet meals like rack of lamb stuffed with chanterelles.

But he also creates deluxe après-ski comfort food like macaroni and aged cheddar with bacon, cassoulet. There’s certain to be something amid the 5,000 bottles in the wine cellar tasting room to complement whatever you’re noshing.

For relaxation and re-charging there is the hotel’s Sans Sabot spa offering massages and treatments. Nearby is the Scandinave Spa, the genuine Finnish hot-cold/indoor-outdoor experience that can include tiptoeing through snow for a refreshing dunk in the icy du Diable River. Or simply curl up in your room in front of a blazing wood-burning fireplace lit by your very own Wood Concierge.■

The Business Traveller: A Short Trip to Montreal We go out-of-town for a business trip. Yes, it is all work and no time for pleasure. But what if you enjoy every second of it and feel like you’re actually on a vacation! Sounds fun right? So grab your smartphone, take a photo, and tell us about your business trip. Turn that boardroom meeting or your plane ride to an amazing story of a Business Traveller. And don’t forget your travel quick tip for us.

For your Business Travel Tips and story, please email us at biztrip@canadianinquirer.net After I finalized the documents to bring on the trip and my last minute meeting with the team at the office; I quickly drove to the Vancouver International Airport for a 14:00 flight to Montreal. With printed boarding pass and Nexus Card on hand – I’m already at the pre-departure area in just few minutes. I bought a cycling magazine (for the first time, thinking that this would be a good info-guide for my new hobby this summer) so I will have a reading material while on-board. I arranged my travel itineraries and the local weather forecast so I know already what to expect when I get there. After 5 hours and plus three (+3) from pacific time – I arrived at my hotel room almost midnight.

On the plane

Quick Tip: There are four things you can do on the plane: (1) work on your Laptop or Tablet; (2) watch a Movie or Read; (3) have a conversation with a colleague or a stranger; (4) get some Sleep.

I got good time management in my pocket so I was able to do all four. I finished working on some event guidelines and blurbs for a marketing campaign and I decided to check the TV. Good thing there’s a new episode of one of my favorite show,

“the Undercover Boss”. The reality show is about the president or CEO of a big company who will pretend to be a low-key, ordinary worker and do an undercover duty to learn more about his team and what’s going on with his business operations.

Seated beside me was a young business traveller too—a sales manager representing a company that has retail-store operations in major airports selling mobile and travel accessories. A short conversation led to a productive network contact—maybe, we could arrange a meeting with our bosses and see if we can carry their products in our retail stores. An hour before landing, I took quick nap.

At the hotel

Quick Tip: Check your hotel’s amenities and operating hours I knew already that Montreal’s weather forecast will be heavy snow, so after almost a day-long meeting with our company’s partner based in Dorval, I decided to just stay at the hotel. Since the local time is three hours ahead of Vancouver’s — I still have time to coordinate with my team. I always bring a set of gym clothes just in case I can find time to exercise; that’s the reason I check the hotel’s amenities.

Would there be a fitness room, swimming pool, sauna or whirlpool, resto-bars or lounges and business center?

You have to check their operating hours so if you have spare time after a dinner meeting, you can always use the hotel’s amenities.

I spent half an hour on the treadmill and check their in-house restaurant-bar, Bar Connexion. I ended the day with an order of fish n’ chips with poutine – a must have when you’re in Montreal or Quebec.

Local Cuisine

Quick Tip: Check your neighborhood for a local restaurant.

I seldom have French cuisine so I requested my colleague to bring me to a local restaurant for a business lunch. We drove for a few minutes to Resto Saveur Du Lac, also in Dorval—a small but cozy place with probably a 40-seat accommodation. With my colleagues, Diego and Marianne - we ordered calamari for starter and a Chilean sea bass (I’m not sure if it’s from Chile – I should have asked) for entrée. We were offered to try the local wine but I declined – I wish I could but I’m really bad with alcohol. We discussed some issues and updated some marketing protocols during the conversation but conversation on French cuisine was just exemplary.

Business Trip

Quick Tip: Travel light I had an early flight to Toronto and waking up at 4am (1am Vancouver time) would be hard, so I packed my stuff before sleeping. I only have the essential things like mouthwash, toothbrush and face cream (SPF 15) which I can easily put on my carry-on luggage. I prepared which clothes to wear and the itinerary documents secured. That way, even if you snooze button three times – you’re still assured that you won’t be missing your plane.■

Congratulations To the Philippine Canadian Inquirer on it’s first issue.

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