Diaryo Filipino May 2015 Issue

Buying or Selling a home is a BIG DEAL! Let’s not just jump into it. Let me help you create a PLAN and guide you through the whole process.

217-222 16 Ave., NE Calgary, Alberta

Sellers’ and buyers’ satisfaction is my goal.

I serve my clients beyond their expectations.

I’ll provide you a CONFIDENTIAL and FREE professional real estate Advice.

Jean Diestro

“Whatever it takes, I will get the job done!”

Realtor

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

MAY 2015

mobile: 403.383.7001 fax: 403.592.9142 email: diestroj@gmail.com

VOLUME 6 ISSUE 01

PH Pres. Aquino visits Canada MarkJoel

P6

Cheryl Posadas-Guinsatao

Photo by Benhur Arcayan/ Malacañang Photo Bureau)

M

Free Home Evaluation... Free Sellers’ and Buyers’ Orientation

EDITOR IN-CHIEF

TD Canada Trust

We’ve got the right mortgage for you Together we can identify the home financing solution that meets your needs.

Jennifer Uminga

Mobile Mortgage Specialist Calgary and Area

403-923-2946

jennifer.uminga@td.com mms.tdcanadatrust.com/jennifer.uminga

Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Benigno Aquino III, President of the Philippines, announced new initiatives that will further strengthen relations between Canada and the Philippines. The announcement was made at an event in Ottawa on Parliament Hill during President Aquino’s State visit to Canada from May 7 to 9, 2015, which includes stops in Ottawa, Toronto and Vancouver. This is Aquino’s first state visit to Canada, upon the invitation of Governor General David Johnston.

The initiatives announced were expected to promote closer trade, investment and development ties between the two countries and enhance security collaboration to counter threats to regional and global security. continued on page 5

, 2001, 2002 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012

10827 95 St. NW Edmonton Ph: 587.524.7555 Fax: 587.524.7556

2

MAY 2015

Editorial

The Big Shift

S “There is nothing more difficult to take in hand, more perilous to conduct, or more uncertain in its success, than to take the lead in the introduction of a new order of things.”

— Niccolo Machiavelli, The Prince

$1.25

For subscription email us at diaryofilipino@gmail.com

Publishers

Antonio Amorado Manuel Perez Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

Editor in-Chief

Cheryle Posadas-Guinsatao

Asst Editor in-Chief

Cheryl Posadas-Guinsatao

Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

Comic Artist

EDITOR IN-CHIEF

After 12 consecutive majority governments and more than 43 years in power, Alberta’s Progressive Conservatives lost to the New Democratic Party in a sea change in power that will be felt across the country.

New Democrats won an unprecedented majority in what was once the most right-wing province in the country, sweeping all 19 seats in Edmonton and making inroads in previously NDP barren territory in Calgary and Lethbridge.

Much of the NDP win, according to analysts was credited to a protest vote; an angry electorate called to the polls too soon, punishing a governing party that had grown too old, too entrenched, too entitled and too arrogant.

The connections between Tories, government, and civil society had grown too cozy, and too stacked.

When former Premier Jim Prentice called an election due to a transformational budget at this economic times, I did not see anything wrong with it. Sometimes politicians do things for reasons that baffle observers including other politicians and

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Xiao Prieto

Writers/Contributors Romeo Honorio Santa Aquino-Posadas Len Chan Lito de Jesus Manuel Perez Charmaine Perez Madame KC Fr. Edmund F. Vargas Razel Guillermo Chona Villaroman Kiko Ibarra Andy Chua Gian Abellana Precy Atienza Gerine Arroyo Ruel Sarmiento

journalists. They seem to commit acts that seem contradictory or self-defeating. Why? I believe that it is because they know something that we do not know. Politicians understand the marketplace better than business people. Politicians poll more than company polls.

They pay more attention to demographic market signals and statistical data.

But even if politicians understand marketplace and demographic trends, they still need to peer inside those trends and unpack the assumptions and expectations of a changing consumer base. If you want to win their trust, you have to listen to what they are saying. It’s just like when the tuition cap was removed, students

raised their voices against it resulting on an increase in the number of younger voters on this election despite of it coinciding to the run of Calgary Flames in the NHL Playoffs.

What should we feel on this big shift of power and values? The election of an NDP majority government in Alberta puts the province’s energy sector in a very frightening position after the result of the election was announced.

The discovery of oil turned Alberta from poor to rich and it remains the most conservative place in Canada and the beating heart of the government.

It has always been a resource-based economy, thriving or suffering depending on the price of oil, wheat, or softwood.

That’s a big concern

because you have a very complex sector that needs to have somebody running a portfolio that truly understands the complexity and can speak for Alberta on a national stage, in North America and internationally. Thus the fears of those in the energy sector affects not only the investors but most importantly the people. The voters’ stunning decision to hand power to Premier Designate Rachel Notley and a huge new caucus of political novices will therefore create an unprecedented disconnect between the Legislature and corporate Calgary.

Truly, new relationships will need to be built and people on both sides will need to reach out in order for Alberta’s oil and gas sector — which accounts

for 26 per cent of the provincial GDP — to thrive under the new regime.

When I asked my 20 year old daughter how she feels about the result of the election, she said“There is a certain relief in change, even though it be from bad to worse; it’s just like when you are traveling or long driving, that it often a comfort to shift one’s position and be bruised in a new place.”

In short, it’s too early to judge, to rash to expect the new regime failing and to narrow minded of us to second guess the newly elected MLAs and Premier Notley’s government’s skills set.

So for now let’s wait and see what this big shift will bring.

cannot be replaced by money at all. As a daughter, and son the only thing we can give to our mothers is love, respect, and support. Especially when they are in the midst of their age. Mother’s need our care, they need us if they are in the hand of the health care. We need

to visit them although they might have lost their hearing or they cannot talk and still our mother feel us around.

“Love and life according to the gospel cannot be thought of first and foremost as a kind of precept, because what they demand is beyond

Feature Article

Graphic Artist/Sketch Pixecolours Media Haus Inc.

Creative Director

Antonio Amorado/PMHI

Photographers

Lito de Jesus / Andre Harms Mark Ancheta / Elizalde Francisco Mark Dutkoski

Main Office 4758 14th St NE Calgary, Alberta

Calgary (403) 708-7191 | (403) 613-1182

Edmonton (780) 800-9792

Diaryo Filipino is published through the support of our advertisers. Our hope is that you will support them in return.

Diaryo Filipino invites the community to share news, views & opinions, articles, feedbacks and pictures. All opinions and views expressed in the Diaryo are that of the individual contributors and should not be considered to reflect the opinions or views of the Diaryo Filipino or its staff.

Diaryo Filipino reserves the rights to refuse or edit any submissions and is not responsible for the return of unsolicited materials, artwork & other materials. No part of Diaryo Filipino may be reproduced nor reprinted without the express written consent of the publisher.

WONDERFUL LIFE Precy Atienza CONTRIBUTOR

Happy days are here again, seniors get out from their cell, cave, home, to enjoy the nice weather, which everyone is longing for.

Everyone keeps on moving, from different directions of their lives. Some goes for vacation, excursion, picnic, and Birthday Celebrations. As I observe with each and every one where happy and there is a glow on their faces because they can feel that being a senior there is a fulfillment that they were able to reach that age.

That feeling of belongingness as a member of senior association makes them comfortable and there is hope in their lives. Being a senior is really hard, aging is the hardest part, and so many questions are being asked.

What will I do to keep my self-esteem? These are the most questions asked by our seniors. The friendliness, cheerfulness and the willingness to

be associated with other seniors. It is not hard, but it is not impossible.

Seniors in the community makes life easier. As I had met many seniors from different associations there are so happy, sociable, vigorous, and active.

It was so interesting that many seniors relates their stories in their past and present so interestingly that the life they had. I am so happy when I saw them enjoying the party, especially when their names were called during the Birthday Celebration.

Many of them were so happy and enjoyed being called because this was days they are longing for.

As a birthday celebrant seniors really give a very important meaning in their life because being a senior they were acknowledged during the birthday celebration.

The month of May is the month for Mother’s Day, we need to show our love to our mothers while they are here in this world. Let us give them the most of it, we shall embrace them whole-

heartedly. Show them that they are very important to us, because we have only one mother in this world.

Our mothers gave us all their love, while we were still in their womb for nine months.

The love and joy they have showed us was so remarkable that this love

man’s abilities. They are possible only as a result of a gift of God who heals, restores, and transforms the human heart by his grace” Living the Gospel, then, is “a possibility opened to man exclusively by grace, by the gift of God, by his love” (VS 23,24)

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

MAY 2015

3

4

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Provincial News

The NDP has won a majority in Alberta ending the Progressive Conservative dominion of the province for more than four decades. The NDP party under leader Rachel Notley swept all 19 seats in Edmonton on May 5 election and made inroads in previously barren NDP territory in Calgary and Lethbridge gathering a total of 54 seats. The Wildrose Party take second place at 21 seats and form the official opposition, while PCs 9 seats trail in third followed by the Liberal Party’s David Swann’s and Alberta Party Greg Clark’s seat.

The Tories, first elected in 1971, had been the longest-serving government

in Canadian history at 43 years and almost eight months.

For Rachel Notley, the victory is a vindication of the pioneering efforts of her father, Grant Notley.

He helped found Alberta’s NDP and kept the movement alive as the sole NDP member of the legislature in the 1970s.

Alberta’s NDP party has swept the provincial capital, helping it secure a commanding majority government. The party was elected or is leading in 54 of Alberta’s 87 ridings and had won all 19 seats in Edmonton. The party has also made gains in rural northern Alberta, leading in a dozen ridings around Edmonton.

diaryofilipino.com

Result of 2015 Alberta Provincial Election

Both of the party leaders fighting for seats in northern Alberta, Notley in Edmonton-Strathcona and Wildrose Leader Brian Jean in Fort McMurray-Conklin, secured their seats. With his party well ahead of the third-place PCs, Jean’s party will be the province’s Official Opposition. PC candidate and former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk says he was ‘personally hurt’ after being defeated by his NDP opponent in Edmonton-Castle Downs, but said that Alberta had spoken.

The NDP surge came largely at the expense of the PCs, which have controlled the government for more than four decades. Among the PC

casualties were many former cabinet ministers, including Health Minister Stephen Mandel and former deputy premier Thomas Lukaszuk. Both were beaten handily by their NDP opponents.

Also defeated was Edmonton-Centre candidate Laurie Blakeman, the province’s longest-serving opposition MLA, who lost out to NDP candidate David Shepherd. While a Liberal candidate, Blakeman was officially endorsed by the Alberta Party and the province’s Green Party.

Meanwhile, the NDP also won the majority of Calgary’s ridings. But PC Leader Jim Prentice, who held onto his own Calgary seat, announced he quits to take responsibility to the party’s failure especially in the said election. PC Leader Jim Prentice won in the riding of Calgary-Foothills, but took to the podium in his concession speech and said he was resigning, effective immediately.

Prentice and Green Party Leader Janet Keeping were both running in the riding of Calgary-Foothills.

The NDP won 14 Calgary seats, the PCs won eight

seats and the Liberals and Alberta each have a single seat. In Calgary-Glenmore, there is a tie between PC Linda Johnson and NDP Anam Kazim. In order to show a result on our map, CBC has given the riding to the incumbent PC and will update once Elections Alberta resolves the issue.

Calgary voters did not merely cast a ballot for their local MLA. They also had a big say in which party leaders will go to the Alberta Legislature.

Calgary is home to 25 of the province’s 87 ridings and the leaders of the PC, Liberal, Alberta and Green Parties were all running in the city.

In Calgary-Elbow, Alberta Party Leader Greg Clark was elected, becoming the first Alberta Party MLA. He defeated PC Gordon Dirks, who was appointed the education minister.

Dirks won an October byelection. The riding was previously held by former premier Redford.

Of course, Calgary isn’t home to all the party leaders. NDP Leader Rachel Notley was elected in Edmonton-Strathcona and Wildrose Leader Brian Jean was elected in Fort

McMurray-Conklin. Other closely watched Calgary ridings included: *Calgary-Acadia, where incumbent PC Jonathan Denis, who recently stepped down as justice minister, is facing public legal proceedings involving his estranged wife. The NDP’s Brandy Payne won. Denis finished third. *Calgary-Fort, where former city councillor Joe Ceci is a star candidate for the NDP. He won with almost half the vote. *Calgary-Shaw, where Jeff Wilson, a former Wildrose MLA who crossed the floor to the PC party in December, is running for the PCs. Wilson finished third. *Calgary-Varsity, a riding that has swung between the Liberals and PC parties in the past. Donna Kennedy-Glans did not run again. Susan Billington, a relatively unknown PC candidate is facing strong opposition from Liberal Pete Helfrich and the NDP’s Stephanie McLean.

The NDP’s McLean won by more than 2,000 votes.

For individual results visit Alberta Votes 2015 Interactive Dashboard.

(Source: Canadian Press)

diaryofilipino.com continued from page 1

Philippine President Aquino visits Canada President Aquino hailed the Canadian government for being the Philippines’ partner in strengthening security cooperation and fighting crime and terrorism in the Asia-Pacific region even as he expressed optimism on the looming expansion of Philippine-Canadian trade.

Canada will not allow the creation of a “permanent underclass” of foreign workers filling jobs here for long periods with no hope of citizenship, Prime Minister Stephen Harper says.

Harper also made comments of “not allowing the creation of permanent underclass of foreign workers filling jobs in Canada for long periods with no hope of citizenship” Philippine President Aquino as he justified a clampdown on the temporary foreign worker program in Canada.

Because of a four-year limit imposed on how long temporary foreign workers can remain in Canada, thousands of workers are now being forced to return to their homelands. But Harper defended the changes when asked by a Filipino journalist, saying that the government doesn’t want immigrants taking jobs that unemployed Canadians are available to do.

“But just as importantly, we are making sure that when people come to

this country to work and to work long term, they have the ability to move towards being permanent citizens of this country,” Harper said. “This country is not going to have a policy, as long as I’m prime minister, where we will have a permanent underclass of temporary, people who are so-called temporary, but here forever with no rights of citizenship and no rights of mobility.

That’s not the Canadian way we do immigration.

So we’re going to make sure that that program does not drift in that direction.”

The low-skilled workers lost their work permits under a policy introduced on April 1, 2011 that requires any temporary foreign worker who has been here for four years to leave.

President Aquino also met with leading CEOs in a roundtable forum organized by the AsiaPacific Foundation of Canada (APFC). The business executives were accompanied by Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade.

Stewart Beck, APFC Chair, said that the vitality of Philippine-Canadian relations was underpinned by Diaspora, referring to the 700,000-strong Filipino-Canadian community.

In reply to a question from Sunlife Financial CEO Dean Connor on what must happen for

the Philippines to sustain its fast rate of economic growth, President Aquino said that he will continue focusing on investments in people and hoped that the next administration will continue initiatives such as the K to 12, intensified technical-vocational skill training, and job matching, and social protection programs such as conditional cash transfer, universal health care and socialized housing.

President Aquino and British Columbia Premier Christy Clark also witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding to facilitate the employment of Filipinos in British Columbia, home to some 136,000-strong Filipino community. An agreement signed by Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz and Teresa Watt, British Columbia minister for international trade, would enforce existing regulations intended to protect workers. The agreement is geared toward the elimination of barriers to certification, recognition and matching of skills and qualifications of Filipino migrant workers.

During the state visit, the Philippines and Canada also signed a framework agreement on mutual accountability spelling out their commitment to reduce poverty in the Philippines, and a memorandum of understanding expanding collaboration in occupational health and safety to create safer workplaces.

5

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

“Our Client, Our Family” www.amdfinancialinc.com

Offering the best choices of loans that suits your family We can help you get the money you need, with a low monthly payment you can afford.

Services Offered: • Personal Loan • Secured Loan • Bridge Loan • Home Equity Loan

• Second Mortgage • Reverse Mortgage • Credit Assistance • Debt Consolidation

403.204.8836 | 403.402.7303 | 403.835.1329 info@amdfinancialinc.com

Source: Ottawa Bureau & Canadian Press

NEED IMMIGRATION ADVICE? Call Jon Salvador - Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant A graduate of De La Salle University, Manila and Bow Valley College, Calgary to assist you in the following: • • • • • •

Express Entry Immigration Program Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIAs) Work Permit and Study Permit Work Permit Restoration Provincial Nominee Program Caregiver Program (Live In or Out)

Jon Salvador, BSc. Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant Registered Member of ICCRC & CAPIC

Spousal Sponsorship Program Family Sponsorship Program Tourist or Visitor Visa Investor & Entrepreneur Program Citizenship Application Super Visa for Parents

OFFICE ADDRESS: 213 Hamptons Landing NW Calgary, Alberta Canada T3A 5R4 EDMONTON | RED DEER | CALGARY

For an appointment please call: OFFICE

• • • • • •

CELL

(403) 241-6276 or (403) 669-6276

or send email to

Services available in Tagalog & English!

jon@nuerainc.ca

6

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

diaryofilipino.com

Main Ingredient ASST EDITOR IN-CHIEF

Hello The Main Readers, Another exciting feature through this column has just emerged since last month. Finding a an establishment that highlights Filipino culture, whether in terms of food being served, the ambiance or people that work behind it. So for our next culturally significant dish we are featuring the Filipino national dish- LECHON!

Although roasted whole suckling pig was originated from Spain and spread to its colonized countries, Lechon found its ultimate fame in every Filipino festivities as ‘THE STAR’ of every banquet table.

In Calgary, there are few places where you can get the authentic Filipino Lechon both in style of cooking and taste. So for those that were not familiar with them, here’s of the well known for it- ‘MARK JOEL’s LITSONG PINOY’.

The Main Ingredient is privilege to feature and share not only to Alberta, Saskatchewan but to the world how the couple perseverance and determination paved the way to a very thriving food business.

The very diligent business partners and couple Mel and Fely Batalla became experts in roasting pigs. Although it was no walk in the park in the beginning they have never stopped in making it to fruition. So let’s me introduce to all their success story....

The Main Ingredient (TMI): How was business conceptualized and started?

MarkJoel (MJ): Feb 4, 2008We started in Midnapore, when economy of Canada is low as meat vendors.

Then on Nov 7, 2009 we reopens in International Supermarket- initially we offered fresh meat and vegetables stall and evolved into now Lechon and other Filipino Dish Take Out. In that same year we have been noticed in the community.

PHOTOS BY DENNIS BERTULFO

Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski

May 2015 The Main Ingredient Special Feature:

Mark Joel’s Special Pinoy Lechon How about your ROI in the business?

We put a very small capital with 10K, enough to buy a number of necessary equipment such as display and hot holding cabinet, utensils, raw ingredients and oven rental from the supermarket. Astonishingly, our ROI came back within 4 months of hard work.

Who owns the business?

Where does the name MarkJoel originated?

It is a family business, and yes everyone in the family pitch in from preparation to the selling.

We also have 3- 4 people in production and 4 front house. Fely is the one who perfected the roasting and flavour of our famous lechon. The name is a combination of our 3 children particularly the youngest.

How did you know that the is a good business to start?

We used to clean the Hong Kong International Supermarket, and there was available stall for rent.

Why lechon? It actually a blessing in disguise because the stall and equipment are already available. Although my wife Fely doesn’t have any experience with roasting pig, her passion, faith and determination about cooking lead us to this success.

Where did you develop you signature product?

First month of operation and cooking is not very ideal, but we took lots of people advise and tried more, until we found the perfect proportion in achieving distinct taste and develop our own way preparing ‘crispy and

crunchy’ roast pig. Here, we use Chinese upright oven, where the pig is hanged upright. We cook them daily from 4am3pm.

How many lechon do you sell daily? Where do you get your pigs to roast?

Average daily- 30-40 whole roasted pigs plus 3-4 pre-cuts to be retailed in the store, heads are ordered separately. We have 4 suppliers We take clients’ orders in a week in advance.

Are Filipino your exclusive clients/customers?

Mostly Filipinos but also Asians, Mexican and even Canadians What are other products available for purchase in your take out?

All traditional Filipino dishes and desserts such

as Higado, Menudo, sinigang fried and smoke fish which we make in house as well.

What is Mark Joel’s future goals?

We recently opened a branch in Edmonton and in the near future we are hoping to open another branch in Calgary.

What is your message to our readers and viewers?

We would for everyone to taste the genuine lasang Pinoy sa Western Canada, this no other than Mark Joel’s Litsong Pinoy. We are open 7 days a week, Mon-Fri, 10am-7pm and Sat-Sun 8am-8pm. They can visit us here in Calgary at 3215 17 Ave (International Avenue) SE Calgary For orders and Catering:

403. 453 1174

diaryofilipino.com

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Immigration News

Temporary Foreign Workers Options to Stay in Canada Columbio (Jon) Salvador, BSc. CONTRIBUTOR Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant About the writer:

Jon Salvador is a licensed immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). He has more than 20 years of management and business experience in Canada. Prior to establishing his immigration consulting company, he worked for a U.S. based computer company and then at TELUS, the 2nd largest telecom company in Canada in various management positions. He is originally from Manila, Philippines and graduated from DLSU (De La Salle University) in Manila with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.

He also studied Business Management at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. If you would like to request articles on other immigration topics for future “Diaryo Filipino” publications, you can contact Jon at (403) 241-6276 or at jon@nuerainc.ca or the publisher of this newspaper.

Due to the Canadian government TFW – 4 year cumulative rule, after April 1, 2015 many Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) – who have been working in Canada for four (4) or more years and have not yet received their PR File Number or Provincial Nomination Certificate -

have been asked to leave Canada. All new Work Permit (WP) applications will be checked to determine, if the TFW has been working in Canada for 4 or more years since April 1, 2011… and if so, their WP application will be refused or the WP validity duration will be shortened to meet the TFW - 4 year cumulative rule.

TFWs who were not working or were laid–off for several months during the 4 year period between April 1, 2011 to April 1, 2015 can request for WP extensions to make-up for the time lost when they were not working.

To obtain work permit extension, the TFW must be able to provide the CIC with documents that prove there were legitimate breaks from work during the time period covered by their WPs. Examples of legitimate work breaks are: 1. Maternity leave for mothers giving birth provide birth certificate of child 2. Periods of unemployment – provide letter of termination and employer ROE 3. Periods in the hospital for medical problems – provide proof of hospitalization 4. Extended unpaid leave – provide letter from employer NOTE: Regular vacation leaves are not counted as legitimate work breaks.

For TFWs who are nearing their cumulative four

(4) year limit listed below are some of their options to remain in Canada: 1. Apply under the Express Entry (EE) Immigration program.

If you have at least one (1) year skilled work experience (NOC: B or A) within the last 10 years, you can apply to become an immigrant under the Express Entry (EE) Immigration program.

All EE applicants need to take the IELTS or CELPIP English language exams. The language requirement under the EE program depends under what EE program you are interested to apply under:

a. Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) program – CLB 7 in all language skills for all skilled jobs NOC: 0, A or B. For IELTS – CLB 7 means a score of 6 in all categories and for CELPIP - CLB 7 means a score of 7 in all categories.

b. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program – CLB 7 for NOC: 0 or A jobs (ie. professional and managerial jobs) and CLB 5 for NOC: B jobs (ie. skilled or supervisory jobs). For IELTS – CLB 5 means a score of 5 in all categories, except Reading which requires a score of 4. For CELPIP – CLB 5 means a score of 5 in all categories.

c. Federal Skilled Trades (FST) program – CLB 5 for Speaking and Listening and CLB 4 for Reading and Writing.

For IELTS – CLB 4 means

a score of 3.5 in Reading and a score of 4 in Writing. For CELPIP – CLB 4 means a score of 4 in Reading and Writing.

If you are found eligible and invited by CIC into the EE program, current processing times are six (6) months or less.

Eligible TFWs should apply as soon as they can while their Work Permits are still valid. AINP application processing times are now between 18 to 24 months long. As a fallback position, AINP applicants who are still waiting for their AINP Certificates should seriously consider, if they are eligible to apply under the EE program.

Besides the English exams, there are many other requirements under the EE program so TFWs may want to consult with a licensed Immigration Consultant ( ie. registered member of ICCRC) to assist them in their EE application.

To check, if the person you are dealing with is a licensed Immigration Consultant, go to the ICCRC website and check, if the person is a registered member of the ICCRC. The ICCRC website link is: http://secure. iccrc-crcic.ca/searchnew/EN. Under Bill C-35, persons charging consulting fees - who are not licensed as Immigration Consultants or Lawyers could be penalized up to $100,000 in fines and/or up to 2 years in prison.

Please note that several skilled jobs that were previously suspended in 2014 to apply under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) are now again eligible under EE immigration program such as: 1. Retail Sales Supervisors (NOC: 6211) 2. Cooks (NOC: 6322) 3. Food Service Supervisors (NOC: 6311) 4. Administrative Officers (NOC: 1221) 5. Administrative Assistants (NOC: 1241) 6. Accounting Technicians and Bookkeepers (NOC: 1311) 2. Have your employer promote you to a Managerial or Professional job position.

Managerial jobs (NOC: 0) and Professional jobs (NOC: A) are exempted from the TFW – 4 year cumulative rule… so TFWs promoted to these positions will not be forced to leave Canada, even if they have already been working in Canada for 4 or more years. To promote employees, the employers have to apply for a new LMIA for TFWs. Some employers are reluctant to apply for Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to promote their staff because their company exceeds the recently imposed TFW cap for foreign workers. It is important to note that there are three (3) types of LMIA applications. The three (3) LMIA types are: a. LMIA to support a Work Permit application – affected by the TFW cap b. LMIA tao support a Permanent Residency (PR) Application c. LMIA to support a PR and Work Permit application Please note that the last 2 types of LMIAs listed above are exempted from the TFW cap for foreign workers and companies with 9 or less employees are also exempted from the TFW cap. TFWs should inform their employers of this information, just in case the employers are not aware of it.

3. Apply to obtain a Study Permit.

Another option to legally stay in Canada is to change your legal status from foreign worker to student. Foreign students are not affected by the TFW – 4 year cumulative rule. Students are allowed to work only up 20 hrs./ week. Foreign students who graduate from government recognized educational institutions in Canada can apply for Work Permits under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP).

To obtain a work permit after your graduation under the PGWPP program, you must meet the following requirements: a. You must have studied full time in Canada and you must have completed a program of study that

7

lasted at least eight (8) months. b. In addition, you must have graduated from:  a public post-secondary institution, such as a college, trade/technical school, university or CEGEP (in Quebec), or  a private post-secondary institution that operates under the same rules and regulations as public institutions, or  a private secondary or post-secondary institution (in Quebec) offering qualifying programs of 900 hours or longer leading to a diplôme d’études professionnelles (DEP) or an attestation de spécialisation professionnelle (ASP), or  a Canadian private institution authorized by provincial statute to confer degrees but only if you are enrolled in one of the programs of study leading to a degree as authorized by the province and not in all programs of study offered by the private institution. c. You must apply for a work permit within 90 days of receiving written confirmation (for example, a transcript or an official letter) from your institution indicating that you have met the requirements for completing your academic program. d. You must have completed and passed the program of study and received a notification that you are eligible to obtain your degree, diploma or certificate. e. You must have a valid study permit when you apply for the work permit.

A Post-Graduation Work Permit cannot be valid longer than the official length of your program of study in Canada. For example, students graduating from a four-year degree program might be eligible for a three-year year work permit. Students graduating from an eight-month certificate program would only be eligible for a work permit of eight months.

If the official length of your program of study is: a. less than eight months -you are not eligible for this program b. less than two years but more than eight months -you may get a work permit for a period no longer than the length of your program of study (for example, if you studied for nine months, a work permit may be issued for a period of nine months) c. two years or more -a work permit may be issued for three years A work permit under the PGWPP may be issued for the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three (3) years. A post-graduation work permit cannot be valid for longer than the student’s study program, and the study program must be a minimum of eight months in length. For continued on page 9

8

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

TechNews

From Factory Worker to Indie Game Developer An Interview with Keybol Games’ Bari Silvestre

Ruel Sarmiento CONTRIBUTOR

A year ago, I was at Casual Connect Asia in Singapore. During that time, My friend and I made our first little game and submitted it to the event’s Indie Prize Showcase. It is there where I met Bari Silvestre. A very humble and soft-spoken guy. He was there to present his games, Pretentious Game and Rubpix. I never heard of him before or learned about his games but he was quite popular among the indie game community. What intrigued me about this family man was his very interesting backstory.

I understand that you’re working on an entirely different field before you got into game development. How and when did you start?

I started in 2009. I just got back from South Korea as a Factory Worker.

I knew about earning an income using the internet through blogging and ads.

Then I found out that you can get a lot of visitors on your site by making games. So I learned how to make them. And then

I found out about selling your games through flashgamelicense.com. I consider myself as an underground game developer. People know my games but not my name or face.

In 2012, I got invited at Casual Connect Singapore and Seattle where they featured my games, Splitman and Pretentious Game respectively. Again in 2013, I attended Casual Connect Singapore and San Francisco to showcase the sequels of my aforementioned games. And then Pretentious Game 2 won the Director’s Choice Award in San Francisco.

That’s when I got recognition in the Philippines.

The Game Developers Association of the Philippines(GDAP) invited me to talk about my experience.

When you learned that you can make a decent profit developing games, did you do it fulltime from the beginning?

Or was it more of a transition?

I started full-time, since I can’t find a suitable work during those period.

If ever I can’t sell my game, my fallback was my income through blogging.

Until selling games was more stable than earning through the ads on my

website.

Pretentious Game became a huge hit. What do you think is the appeal of the game?

Maybe the ending. The different style of gameplay for every level. And instead of literal instructions to aid the player through the game, I made it into a poem. Everybody can relate to a love story. And then the title, Pretentious Game.

Some people knew that the game is satirical and meant to be a joke.

Last year, you launched Pretentious Game on Steam. It was an important milestone for you as a game developer. Tell us about it.

I only noticed how big it was when I learned of a wiki about game development in the Philippines. It was mentioned there that it’s the first and only Filipino game on Steam at that time. So I researched and asked around, and nobody can dispute.

I first met you at Casual Connect in Singapore.

Before that, I’m not aware about how big the indie game development scene is in Asia. Where is the Philippines right now as a game dev community compared to our other Asian neighbours? continued on page 15

EVELYN ROBERTSON Real Estate Associate

MASTER SALES AWARD

Thinking of Buying or Selling Your Home?

Call Evelyn Robertson

Cell: (403) 874-9160 Bus: (403) 278-8899 Email: e.robertson@shaw.ca

3205-380 Canyon Meadows Drive SE, Calgary, AB T2J 7C3

MaxWell - Canyon Creek An Independent Member Broker

F

diaryofilipino.com

face of the month Marietta Pangan-Dutkoski ASST EDITOR IN-CHIEF

Coming straight from the Canadian Federation of Chefs and Cooks ( Western Region, this gentleman who is our featured ‘Face of the Month’ has exemplified and achieved the high standard as required by the association. Thus, now received the most prestigious ‘Chef of the Year 2014’, which was awarded during the President’s Gala and Awards Dinner by the Academy of Chefs and Cooks Calgary Branch held at the Hotel Arts Calgary on April 27, 2015, 6:30pm.

To be considered or distinguish for the Chef of the Year category a member must meet the following requirements:

The person named has demonstrated a long term commitment towards promoting our Association or publicizing our chosen profession locally and/or nationally, thus benefiting us all.

-The number of meetings attended, the level of involvement in Academy or Nationally sanctioned functions, a willingness to advance our trade by having apprentices on staff or involvement in culinary programs, participation in culinary salons or other public demonstrations are all areas of consideration.

-These people shall remain Good Will Ambassadors of our trade.

Executive Chef Federico Causapin Jr. didn’t not only exceeded as such, he also exemplified a true chef in so many ways as quoted by Derek Dale, Chef of the Year 2013 during the event : As membership chair, he put forth considerable effort over the past years

May 2015 Face of the Month:

Federico “Jun” Causapin Jr. to grow membership numbers, Encouraged Filipino Chefs and Cooks to associate themselves thus, Calgary Academy of Chefs and Cooks(CACC) - Calgary Branch garnered a national recognition with ‘greatest growth by a branch in a year’, He also established vibrant social media account- Facebook, to alert branch members of upcoming events and celebrate current activities.

Receiving the award is quite overwhelming to Chef Jun as he fondly

referred by his colleagues and friends. Here is the excerpt from the one on one interview with Chef Jun.... Chef of the Year 2014.

Diaryo Filipino (DF): how did you feel receiving the chef of Year 2014 Chef Jun? Chef Jun (CJ): hindi ko nga po naisip kahit hinagap na ako ay magpapabilang sa napaka presithiyosong karangalan ng aming propesyon. “ It never occurred on me that continued on page 13

diaryofilipino.com

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

9

How Bad are the Lay-offs in Oil and Gas Industry?

Don Ibarra CONTRIBUTOR

International Recruiter (Based in Calgary, AB Canada)

Emails: jobhiringsglobal@shaw.ca jobhiringsglobal@gmail.com

or reach him at +1 (587) 718-8000

Since oil prices began tanking last summer, there have been predictions of thousands of layoffs in Alberta’s energy-dependent economy. So just how many jobs have we lost so far? There are no hard and fast numbers.

Alberta employers must reports layoffs of 50 or more people to the Alberta government’s ministry of Jobs, Skills, Training and Labour. But countless layoffs involve a handful of employees at small and medium sized businesses and so fly under the radar.

Here’s what we do know: Between January 1 and May 7, 55 Alberta employers notified the provincial government of their plans to terminate a total of 9,342 workers (including 1,962 employees at Target stores in Alberta). That’s compared to 7,900 employees in all of 2014. Jason Gilmore, an analyst with Statistics Canada, said by early January 2015, 13,000 jobs were lost in the Alberta’s natural resource sector since September 2014.

The majority of those jobs were in oil and gas. Also in January, the Canadian Association of Oilwell Drilling Contractors predicted 167 fewer drilling rigs in the field compared to 2014, resulting in the layoffs of 3,400 rig workers with the loss of another 19,500 indirect jobs.

Major Alberta energy industry layoffs announced so far in 2015: May 13- Trican Well Services announces it has cut 2,000 employees from its North American workforce, including close to 800 in Canada.

The update was included in Trican’s first-quarter financial report, which shows the company had a $35.7-million net loss and a $60.3-million adjusted loss in the first quarter.

March 20- Trican Well Services confirms it is cutting up to 500 jobs across the country, 150 of them reportedly in Red Deer.

March 18- ConocoPhillips Canada confirms it is laying off 200 workers. The cuts represent about seven percent of its workforce in

Canada, and will primarily affect employees in Calgary. In February, the company told its 2,800 Canadian Business Unit employees it would announce staff reductions by the end of March March 17- Talisman Energy, based in Calgary, announces it is cutting as much as 15 per cent of its workforce at its head office. Of its 1,300 workers in Calgary, between 150 to 200 will be let go. Talisman is being acquired by Spanish energy giant Repsol in a deal worth $15.1 billion Cdn. Nexen Energy, a subsidiary of China’s CNOOC, announces 400 job cuts, 300 of them in Calgary. The layoffs account for almost 15 per cent of the company’s workers in Canada.

March 11- Husky Energy tells 1,000 tradespeople at its Sunrise oilsands project they are out of a job. The company says construction at the site is largely complete, although work was not expected to end until the summer.

February 19- Finning International says it will reduce its workforce in Alberta and B.C. by roughly nine per cent or about 500 people, some of them based in Edmonton and the oil sands. The company supplies heavy equipment.

February 15- Cenovus, one of Canada’s biggest energy players, says it’s slashing its workforce by roughly 15 per cent. That translates into 800 jobs, the majority of them contract positions.

February 12- Precision Drilling, Canada’s biggest drilling company, announces it is cutting its budget in half. It confirms it has 1,000 fewer people working the rigs compared to the same period in 2014.

Husky Energy confirms there will be job cuts in a $400 million budget hack but gives no firm figures.

In February, it announced it’s reducing this year’s capital budget by as much as $400 million and looking for up to $600 million in operational savings in response to the ongoing low-price environment for oil and gas.

February 10 -Oil services giant Halliburton announces plans to slash its workforce worldwide by eight per cent, or 6,400 jobs. It declined to provide numbers on specific regions but the cuts were expected to affect hundreds of jobs in Alberta.

Sanjel, a Calgary-based private oilfield services company, confirms it has been laying off workers.

The company has more than 4,000 employees.

February 5 -Weatherford

International, an oilfield services company, announces it is laying off 8,000 workers- about 15 per cent of its workforce.

Reports say almost 1,000 of those layoffs will be in Alberta.

Evraz, a company that makes steel plates and tubes for drilling rigs, lays off roughly 150 workers at its Calgary plant, according to Global News sources.

February 3- Newalta, an oilfield services company based in Calgary, lays off 180 workers. The cuts amount to 15 per cent of its staff.

January 15- Schlumberger, the world’s biggest oilfield-services company, says it will cut 9,000 jobs.

Number of workers affected in Alberta: unknown.

January 14- Suncor Energy announces it is cutting 1,000 people from its workforce of about 14,000.

January 9- Royal Dutch Shell announces hundreds of job cuts at a massive oil sands project. Shell said it is laying off less than 10 per cent of its 3,000 workers at Albian Sands.

And the list goes on... job cuts at many major oil and gas companies in coming months will really affect our economy and the way we, consumer spend. At this time let us keep watch on what’s happening to our economy and make wise decisions in the days to come. continued from page 7

OPTIONS example, if you graduate from a four-year degree program, you could be eligible for a three-year work permit if you meet the criteria. If you graduate from an eight-month certificate program, you would be eligible for a work permit that is valid for no more than eight months.

4. Spousal or Common Law partner Sponsorship Program.

Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents (PRs) married to TFWs could sponsor their spouses to become permanent residents.

Canadian citizens and PRs who have been living as common law partners with TFWs for at least one (1) year – could also sponsor their common law partners- if they meet sponsorship eligibility requirements and prove that the relationship is genuine and on-going and not entered into for the purpose of staying in Canada.

There are eligibility requirements for a Canadian citizen or PR before they can sponsor a spouse or common law partner.

Some of the eligibility requirements are: a. Sponsor must be at least 18 years old b. Sponsor must agree in writing to provide financial support, if needed:  for a spouse or partner, this lasts for three years from the date they become a permanent resident, and  for a dependent child, this lasts for 10 years, or until the child turns 25, whichever comes first.

The Canadian or PR spouse or common law partner may not be eligible to be a sponsor their partner, if he or she: a. did not meet the terms of a sponsorship agreement made in the past, b. did not pay alimony or child support payments even though a court ordered it, c. receive government financial help for reasons other than being disabled, d. were convicted of -an offence of a sexual nature, -a violent crime, -an offence against a relative that resulted in bodily harm or -an attempt or threat to commit any such offences, depending on the details of the case, such as: • the type of offence, • how long ago it oc-

curred and • whether a record suspension was issued (see Sponsorship bar for violent crime below), e. were sponsored as a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner in the past and became a permanent resident of Canada less than five years ago f. did not pay back an immigration loan, made late payments or missed payments, g. are in prison or h. have declared bankruptcy and have not been released from it yet.

The list above are only some of the sponsorship eligibility requirements.

5. Apply to obtain Visitor Visa.

Another option to legally stay in Canada is to change your legal status from foreign worker to Visitor or Tourist. Visitors are not affected by the TFW – 4 year cumulative rule. However, visitors are not allowed to work in Canada. This option makes sense for TFWs who have already applied for Permanent Residency (PR), whose work permits are still valid and are just waiting for their PR application to be approved.

Instead of going back to their home country, they could legally apply to change their status to visitors – while their work permit in Canada is still valid.

To obtain approval for

Visitors Visa, TFWs have to show that they have enough money to support themselves during their stay in Canada and will not overstay the authorized period. It also helps, if a relative or a friend – who is a Canadian citizen or PR would be willing to provide a Letter of Invitation that indicates they are will to financially support the TFW during their stay in Canada.

Each TFW personal situation is different. The legal options available depend on various factors for each individual and the cooperation and support of their employer. You may wish to consult with a licensed Immigration Consultant or Lawyer to help determine what your best options are to stay in Canada.

Legal Disclaimer: This news article is designed for general information only. The information presented in this article should not be construed to be formal legal advice or the formation of a consultant/ client relationship. Each individual situation is different and people should seek proper advice on their specific cases with a licensed immigration consultant of their choice.

10

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

International

Calgary

Consular Offices promotes DF overseas absentee voting for the 2016 National Elections Cheryl Posadas-Guinsatao EDITOR IN-CHIEF

The Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver conducted monthly consular outreach service in Calgary, Alberta this year to provide passport, notarial and civil registry services for Filipinos living in the province of Alberta. Filipinos living in Calgary and nearby cities in Alberta can apply for renewal of their passports and took their oath under the dual citizenship.

But aside from availing of consular services, the residents of Calgary and nearby cities can took advantage of the outreach event to register for the Overseas Voting for the 2016 National Elections. With the national elections scheduled for next year already nearing, more and more Filipinos in Canada are signing for the overseas voting registration which will

last only until October 31 this year.

A general election in the Philippines is scheduled for May 9, 2016.

Elections in all levels of government above the barangay (village) level will be held on this date.

The presidential election will determine President Benigno Aquino III’s and Vice President Jejomar Binay’s successors; Aquino is term limited, while Binay is allowed to run anew for vice president, although it is widely expected that he’d run for the presidency. The Senate election will determine the twelve Senators that will comprise half of the Senate of the Philippines’ delegation to the 17th Congress of the Philippines. The House of Representatives elections will determine all seats of the House of Representatives of the Philippines. The number of seats to be disputed in the lower house elections depends if there are new legislative districts created prior to

diaryofilipino.com

election day.

Local elections are also to be held in all provinces, cities and municipalities. Mayors, vice mayors, councilors, and if applicable, governors, vice governors and board members will be elected.

The regional election for the Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (ARMM) are also expected to be held on this date, but with the creation of Bangsamoro that will replace the ARMM, it is to be determined if a regional election will be held on this date.

Barangay elections are expected to be held in October 2016.

The province of Alberta is home to more than 113,000 Filipino migrants and workers.

This year, the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver has scheduled 16 consular outreach missions in the province including 9 in the city of Calgary to address the huge demand for passport and other consular services in the area.

Dolly P. Castillo, FCSDC PRESIDENT CONTRIBUTOR

May is Asian Heritage Month, a time to acknowledge the long and rich history of Asian Canadians and their contributions to Canada. It also provides an opportunity for Canadians across the country to reflect on and celebrate the contributions of Canadians of Asian heritage to the growth and prosperity of Canada. The celebration started last May 2 at Chinook Centre Bay Court area where there’s a line-up of free Asian entertainment, featuring Martial Arts displays, traditional and contemporary Asian dance and Midnight Taiko, Calgary’s celebrated Japanese Taiko Drummers.

The next family fun day event related to Asian Heritage Month will be on May 31 starting from 12:00pm until 4:00 pm at Calgary Chinese Cultural Centre. This free event will include Arts, Crafts, Interactive Activities, Entertainment, Food and Informative Displays that showcase the vast array of Asian Cultures that form a part of our lives in Calgary and Canada today. Travel many of the

Asian Heritage Month Kick-Off Celebration countries that make up geographic Asian, all in one afternoon.

As a wrap-up to the ImaginASIAN Festival celebrating Asian Heritage Month in Calgary, the AHF will present a Cultural Night & Recognition Banquet on June 13 Saturday, 6:30 – 9:30 pm at Regency Palace Restaurant with tickets at $50. The evening will celebrate Asian culture in Calgary through a sumptuous 10 course Chinese banquet, the chance to appreciate various cultural performances such as musical numbers, dances and songs, and the celebration and the recognition of contributions by prominent Asian-Calgarians in the fields of the arts, social services, charities and the business sector.

His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston, Governor General of Canada, has declared 2015 as the “Year of Sport” in Canada, during which Canadians will recognize the importance of sports in

our everyday lives and in our identity as Canadians.

This year, Asian Heritage Month honours Asian-Canadian athletes, both past and present, for their contributions to sport on the national and international scenes. These athletes are featured on the 2015 Asian Heritage Month poster.

One of the athlete feature in the poster is Filipino descent Olympic Archer Crispin Duenas of Ontario who will participate in the coming 2015 PanAm/ Parapan Am Games this coming summer.

QUESTIONS? visit our website www.diaryofilipino.com/community

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Horoscope You should seriously try to overcome the strong negativity that will focus on your relationship with colleagues.

So on one side try to be very objective, but on the other listen to your heart.

TAURUS

Miss Tracy De Jesus

Miss Philippines Canada (Calgary) 2015

You have to try very hard to maintain your relationship with some of the people close to you. Try to maintain your relationships with all the strength you got, no matter what do not allow yourself to fall subject to fleeting desires and instinctive wishes, as those will define a negative outcome.

GEMINI

In your relationship with friends, attempt to take the situation into your own hands, even if no one is asking you for it. Right now there is a possibility that your friendly company will fall apart and this will not be the best result.

CANCER

You can truly relax right now and let events follow their course. In your relationship with your lover, you will reach maximum harmony and the stars recommend that you remember this feeling, so you can restore it later when needed.

LEO

Stop living with dreams, start implementing them. Be confident and impart that confidence on others, try to make it so that the people beside you are happy. That is mostly connected with your lover and those close to you.

VIRGO

In your relationship with your lover you will have to make the final decision that might not define your entire life, but will be a significant milestone nevertheless. So concentrate and think what it is that you want. Do not lie to yourself, since the choice that you make now will not be subject to change in the future.

LIBRA

In your relationship with your second half be attentive and finally decide what is more important for you – your personal happiness or your happiness together.

SCORPIO

You are not risking anything and it would be wrong to miss the chance to really change your life for the better. In terms of your relationship with friends, you can organize some massive event, one that will surely go as well as planned and will be remembered by you and other participants for a long, long time.

SAGITTARIUS

Learn to deal with the worldview of others, only then will you have the right to demand the same thing for yourself.

For now – create, enjoy life and receive pleasure from any of its manifestations.

CAPRICORN

You may be the only who cares. Everyone else may be work obsessed, but don’t hold it against them.

AQUARIUS

Your inner harmony is much more important right now, since it is it that will allow you to achieve the necessary condition.

PISCES

Be fair with yourself and others, do not aim to appear better than you are. Remember that you do not owe anyone anything and no one owes you anything.

Mrs. Hanelette Domingo

Mrs. Philippines Canada (Calgary) 2015

Miss Tracy De Jesus

Miss Philippines Canada (Calgary) 2015

Miss Krystal Dichoso

Miss Teen Philippines Canada (Calgary) 2015

Miss Philippines Canada Calgary 2015 Pageant: Miss Congeniality.................Miss Apple Cebedo Miss Photogenic...................Miss Caitlin Caingcoy Miss Teen Best in Talent.......Elijah Rueda Miss Best in Talent..............Tracy De Jesus Mrs. Best in Talent..............Mrs. Darlin Dulce Miss Teen Best in Gown.....Krystal Dichoso Miss Best in Gown...............Miss Tracy De Jesus Mrs. Best in Gown...............Mrs. Hanellete Domingo There are no words to express how truly grateful and blessed I am to have received the title of Miss Philippines Canada Calgary 2015.

It has been such an overwhelming yet humbling experience that I will never want to forget. I am so thankful to have met such wonderful women who presented their beauty and amazing talents in their own unique ways. This award has reminded me of how important it is to continue exploring what life has to offer, to taking chances and embracing challenges, as it gives us the opportunity to grow as individuals and most importantly the ability to love ourselves more.

“The only person you should try to be better than is the person you were yesterday” -Anonymous.

Never compare your life to others, always stay positive by focusing on yourself as we all shine in our own way.

Thank you to my dear family, friends and loved ones for your unconditional support, warm greetings and prayers!

To my fellow candidates, Congratulations to you and thank you for making this such a fun, memorable and unforgettable experience!

Lastly, to the members of the VISMINSA Charities Foundation, thank you

11

Community News

Calgary PHOTO BY LEN CHAN

ARIES

MAY 2015

for all your hardwork, guidance, and support by coaching us candidates to present ourselves confidently as Queens. I am definitely looking forward towards my next journey in life!

Maraming Salamat po and God Bless Us All. Tracey Anne De Jesus

12

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Health

YMOR OR LESS

Summer Ready?

Kay Shanine De Castro CONTRIBUTOR

A month to go and its time for bathing season, but don’t fret! Here is my summer ready workout and routines to get you ready for the short sunny season as your prepare your tank tops, shorts, bathing suit. Best part is you don’t have to be in the gym to do this!

1. Basic Burpees 3sets 5-10 reps each • Personally this I say is one of the most fat-burning cardio, targeting all the major muscles in the body. Begin in a standing position; now lower your body into a squatting position placing your hands on the floor in front of you.

Then kick your feet back so that you are in pushup position. Lower your chest to do 1 push up, now kick your feet back to a standing position, and jump into the air while clapping your arms overheard. If you are beginner start off with a 5 burpees in a row then gradually increase to 10 repetitions in 3 sets.

2. Planks 3 sets 10reps each/ increase by 5 reps every week • Planks is my favorite all body-workout. It

diaryofilipino.com

targets the core, arms and legs. Start by getting into a press up position, then bend your elbows and rest your weight into your forearms and not on your hands. Your body should form a straight line from shoulders to ankles. Engage your core by sucking your belly button into your spine or just “inhale” while maintaining that abdomen firm.

Hold this position for 10 seconds then gradually increase to 5 seconds each week.

3. Leg Raise- 3 sets 10reps/increase gradually • For those “puson” that us women are having a hard time getting rid of- leg raise is perfect for forming the lower ab. It also works for the hip flexors. Regular exercise of leg raises help to strengthen the lower back. Lie flat on the floor (on a mat or carpet) and place your arms out to the side on the floor with palms facing down.

Engage your stomach and slowly lift your legs to a 90-degree. Keeping your legs straight and not bending knees. Pause for a second then slowly lower the legs back down.

Do the same thing for 10

reps.

4. Body squat 3 sets 1520reps.

• Since the dawn of JLo’s butt and now Kim K. infamous derriere everyone wish list for a perfect body is to have that toned behind. Some might think it only targets the bum but also works for the legs, joints, abdomen, back, shoulder and arms.

A whole body exercise!

I usually do this while cooking to kill time even watching TV. Just stand with your feet slightly wider than your hips, toes pointed slight outward.

Arms extended parallel to the ground, palms down. Keep your spine in a neutral position, don’t round your back or hyper extend. Tuck in your abdomen and push your butt back. Then squat down keeping your knees in line with your feet until your hip joint is lower than your knees.

5. Triceps dips 3sets10 reps • Triceps dip is excellent for strengthening the upper body and targeting the tricep, deltoids and pectoralis major. It can be performed simply at home on a bench, chair or a step. Hoist yourself up onto a bench or chair.

Make sure it’s stable and will secure your body weight. Hands should be shoulder with apart fingers facing forward and elbows pointing backwards with a slight bend in the elbows. Legs extended out in front of your with a slight end in the knee. Slowly lower your body until your shoulder joints are below your elbows. Push back up until your elbows are nearly straight but do not lock them out. Repeat for 10 for 3 sets.

Romy Honorio CONTRIBUTOR

I drove fast headed for my 7 o’clock media coverage of Sarah Geronimo’s meet and greet. Outside the front door was Juan Manila of Red FM 106.7 the Pinoy Edition. As media colleagues time is of essence to our trade. When we entered the room there was no spot for us to settle down so we ended up in one corner of the bar. The Pacific Hut restaurant crew was frenetic in an almost crowded and chaotic space, but managed to execute their tasks very well, while smiling and greeting guests. Customer service at its best.

We spent our 45 minutes waiting for Sarah’s arrival; watching people enjoying their orders and waffling. The restlessness and noise of the crowd was overwhelming.

Juan Manila walked to the stage, grabbed the microphone and assured everyone that Sarah was roughly 20 minutes away.

The noise subsided. We reengaged to waiting and watching the clock every five minutes.

A young lady then walked in the room who I thought to be Sarah.

Stopping in front of us, introductions were made and our waiting time turned productive.

Annie Lux was the daughter of Mr. And Mrs Ron ``Buboy`` Ala, owners of the restaurant. Her passion for music started when she was 13. Her experience and exposure to musical performances solidified the first step of her journey to an exciting career in singing. ``It runs in the family – from my mom side, `` she said. ``I have 200% support from my parents – 100% each from dad and mom,`` she added.

As a testament of her budding career, at 17, Annie appeared at David Pomeranz`s last month concert, and Sarah Geron-

Serendipity, indeed!

imo`s on May 3, 2015 at the Grey Eagle Resort and Casino in Calgary.

A stack of Annie`s ``Serendipity`` CDs were on the counter for sale (Check it out at YouTube Annie Lux – Serendipity).

“The proceeds will go to Nepal`s victims of the devastating earthquake.” She said with a smile. Rarely did I encounter this kind of charitable spirit from a very young lady.

Near the end of our talk she mentioned her fascination with rocks. She wanted to be a singing Geologist sort of – a very rare combination of music, solid foundation and charity.

It was a quarter after eight and the crowd was causing a commotion.

People readied their cell phones and cameras.

Moments later, Sarah appeared with her entourage. She was ushered in to a small table on the stage. Commence another 30 minutes of selfies, CD signing and picture taking. I observed her tired and exhausted petite frame. She looked hapless

and frail in the midst of celebrity devouring fans.

From time to time she radiated adrenaline-induced smiles to the crowd.

I left the place around 9:40 empty handed. No interview, no exclusive photo ops and related media functions. On my way home it occurred to me two things. One, I hope on her way to the top of stardom, Sarah (and her entourage) would pay attention to time. Time is precious to people. To treat it lightly is disrespectful to fans and speaks volume about a character. Secondly, I stumbled upon a Calgary born shinning jewel. She possesses qualities along with her great voice, poise and stage presence that is sure to transform her into a musical darling of our community.

I was reminded of the saying; “Patience is a virtue that takes a lot of waiting” I waited long for the singing star Sarah but ended up with the luxury of interviewing a budding star, Annie Lux.

Serendipity, indeed!

diaryofilipino.com

13

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

National

Senator Enverga introduces Hispanic Heritage Month Act Ottawa, May 13, 2015 – Today, the Honourable Tobias C. Enverga Jr, Senator for Ontario, introduced his Senate public bill, Bill S-228, An Act respecting Hispanic Heritage Month in the Senate Chamber.

Bill S-228 will designate the month of October as Hispanic Heritage Month in Canada.

“My intent with Bill S-228 is to recognize the invaluable, contributions made by the more than half a million people who declared Latin, Central and South American origins, and nearly 370,000 reporting Spanish origin in the 2011 National Household Survey,” said Senator Enverga in a statement after introducing the bill. “Over 870,000 persons reported Spanish as the non-official language spoken at home in the same study,” he

years.

May 2015 Face of the Month:

DF: What would be your future goals as a chef ? In life?

CJ: I am hoping to establish a culinary school in Calgary. My personal goal is to enjoy travelling with my family and show them the beauty of Calgary and Canada .

Federico “Jun” Causapin Jr.

DF: What would be your message and advice to all aspiring chefs to reach what you have achieved?

CJ: I didn’t expect that the association will notice my dedications but I am very grateful. Everything that I have accomplished is a wholehearted effort in order help. I will continue with my best effort to top what I have contributed in the past year for the betterment of the association.

I would even be part of this prestigious award in my profession” DF: What is your - inspiration and motivation for being passionate chef ?

CJ: My family and TFWs like me. I know that I can help them better through making them active in the culinary field and as members of CACC. DF: What are your current involvement in the culinary world as well as Filipino community?

CJ: I have been active lobbying for our staff at Austin Bar and Grill as well as helping all Filipino chefs in Calgary that are still TFW to receive LMIA. DF: It looks like you are well respected by your employer, what is your secret

in maintaining such good relationship with them?

CJ:I consciously tried to work well with the owners every establishment I am employed wit, to build strong work ethics. Also, my dedication is more than 150%. I find ways to bring more revenue to maintain the business i.e. outside catering.

DF: What are your other goals and and achievements in life CJ: I can now say that after 13 years of waiting for my US petition, our family can be reunited instead here in Canada. It has been a challenge that my wife Maria who is a nurse and 4 years old son Kyle are in the United States while Carlo my oldest now 14 years old and I are here in Calgary for the past 4

To all of my kababayans, I want share this “mag bigay tayo ng ating kaya na walang kapalit, Lagi tayong maging bukas palad sa pag tulong at pakikisalamuha sa mga gawaing pang pamayanan bago ang ating mga sarili Mag bahagi ng kakayanan at talento para sa lahat.

“Let’s give what we can without expecting anything in return. Let us be generous in providing help and assistance those that require them and be involved in our community and set aside our personal agendas. Share our skills and talents to everyone.

DF: Again, congratulations to you Chef Jun for being Chef of the Year 2015 CJ: Marami pong salamat at mabuhay din po ang lahat na kusinerong Filipino!

The introduction of this bill follows the City of Toronto’s declaration of February 19 and 20, 2014, which formally urges the Province of Ontario and the Government of Canada to declare October Hispanic Heritage Month.

The Legislative Assembly of Ontario enacted the provincial Hispanic Heritage Month Act earlier this year.

Member of Parliament for York Centre, Mr. Mark Adler, introduced a similar bill in the House of Commons in December 2014.

He has fully endorsed this effort and we hope to cooperate closely to make this law a reality.

“As a Filipino-Canadian, I share a strong affinity with the Hispanic-Canadian community due to our shared colonial heritage and history. I hope that this bill will enrich the cultural mosaic that Canada is, which makes this the greatest country in the world,” Senator Enverga concluded.

For more information please contact:

Lars Andersen Senator Tobias C. Enverga Jr.’s office Tel: 613-996-8895

lars.andersen@sen. parl.gc.ca

High River Romy Honorio CONTRIBUTOR

“You can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but you cannot fool all the people all of the time.” Abraham Lincoln Few years back I still remember this man in his mid 40’s sharing his unforgettable experience.

His last visit to a family dentist was when he was five. His baby tooth had to be extracted. It took him decades before his next appointment. If not for the recurring severe pain impacting his diet and the discomfort of losing sleep, he would have not bothered booking an appointment.

The tooth may look healthy outside but inside it was rotten. No amount of bubble gum, brushing, polishing, flossing and gargling were needed to cover the stink it created, and other complications like tartar build up, gingivitis, gum lesion and others. His dentist told him that cap, crown and filling were just temporal.

The lesson implied was his complacency to take care of his teeth was badly affecting his well being.

His problem could have been avoided by a regular dental check up and cleaning.

Now that the old rotten tooth was gone, his new denture was as good and useful as the rest of his teeth. Now he felt great about his diet, got a good night’s sleep

Pinoy-Albertan we ought to be

and confidence to talk to anybody. No worries about stinky breath. Complications were minimized.

On May 5 the province had undergone major dental procedure. The molars from the mouth that spewed lies, arrogance, entitlement and other forms of bad government practices were extracted.

A new intern in her orange apron took over the clinic. Complacent people who were like gingivitis, tartar and gum lesions that were once part of the old system were shaken off. People who were very much attached to the rotten party that stuck to the status quo were flossed and gargled out.

May 2015’s historic political change brought despair, pain and shame to many “parasites”.

Our community is the fastest growing ethnic group in the province. Our collective influence and

voice are being heard and getting louder. We need to uphold transparency, honesty and integrity. The need for a unified voice is needed now more than ever. Our community is one of the most western oriented groups compared to others.

We need to be active participants in making sure our servants (government) do their job with humility, dignity and integrity. Be informed. Be vigilant. A new dentist is running the clinic. Engage in political dialogue. Be the Pinoy-Albertans we ought to be – united, smart, unmoved by platitudes, well informed and politically enlightened.

Because Politicians (and their cohorts) can fool some of the people all of the time, and all of the people some of the time, but they cannot fool all the people all of the time.

PHOTO COURTESY HIGHRIVERTIMES.COM

continued from page 8

continued. “I think that this group deserves to be honoured in this way, and I hope that this month can provide a platform from which the Hispanic-Canadian community can share and promote their culture and traditions with all Canadians.”

14

MAY 2015

Makialam ni Kiko Ibarra

Si PNoy sa Canada DF

Kiko Ibarra CONTRIBUTOR

Ang makabuluhang pahayag ni Benigno S. Aquino II, Pangulo ng Pilipinas sa kaniyang pakikipagpulong sa mga Pilipino sa Vancouver, Canada noong ika-9 ng Mayo 2015.

Sa mga ganitong pagtitipon po, naaalala ko ang isang pagkakataon noong Congressman pa lang po tayo at may dumalaw po sa atin, nakaharap natin, mahigit-kumulang 80 nursing students. At habang kausap ko sila–dumalaw sila sa Batasan–ang tanong ko sa kanila, “Pagkatapos makapasa ng board exam, ilan sa inyo ang mananatili sa Pilipinas?” At ang dami hong nagtaas ng kanilang kamay: Dalawa. Siyempre nakakalungkot, di po ba?

Walumpu kayong pinalaki ng Inang Bayan; dalawa na lang kayong mananatili dito. Pero di naman po natin masisisi ang mga estudyanteng ito. Gaganahan ba silang manatili sa Pilipinas noon, kung wala silang makitang pag-asang umasenso? Patong-patong ang korupsiyon, lalo na sa burukrasya. Marami na ngang problema, binubulsa pa ng kung sino-sino ang pera ng taumbayan. Tuloy, matamlay ang ekonomiya; walang kompiyansang mamuhunan sa ating bansa. Kakaunti ang trabaho, kaya’t ang hirap ding umasenso. Resulta: Marami ang napilitang makipagsapalaran sa ibang bansa. Ika nga po: People were voting with their feet.

Maglilimang taon pa nga lang po tayo sa Daang Matuwid, pero nakikita na natin ang transpormasyon ng ating lipunan. Nagagawa na nating posible ang mga dating imposible.

Itinututok natin ang paglilingkod, hindi sa sarili at hindi sa gawaing tiwali, kundi sa kapakanan ng mas nakakarami. Ngayon, katuwang na ng sambayanan ang gobyerno sa pagsusulong ng justice, imbes na “just-tiis”; pinapanagot natin ang nagkakasala, mayaman man o makapangyarihan. Hindi na kailangang may padrino para umasenso; basta tapat at nagsisikap, kaya nang iangat ang antas ng pamumuhay. Ang resulta po: Nanumbalik ang tiwala ng publiko sa gobyerno, pati na ang kompiyansa sa atin ng mga mamumuhunan at ng ibang bansa. Sabi nga po nila, ang dating “Sick Man of Asia,” kinikilala na ngayong “Darling of Asia,” at nasa investment grade status na. Siyempre po, ‘yung ating economic cluster nandito. Kaya binabanggit ko sila dahil–uulitin ko lang ho–iyon lang ho ang bonus na natatanggap sa akin eh. Ayon pa sa Bloomberg, inaasahang magiging world’s second

fastest growing economy ang Pilipinas ngayong taon.

Ano po’ng ibig sabihin nito? Isipin n’yo na lang: Kumbaga, kapag tiningnan ngayon ang mapa ng mundo, parang nilagyan ng label ang Pilipinas na nagsasabing, “Sulit magnegosyo dito; malaki ang pag-asang mapalago ang puhunan ninyo.”

Talaga pong makasaysayan ang mga nakakamit nating tagumpay. Nagtala tayo ng 6.3 [percent] average GDP growth kada taon mula 2010–ang pinakamabilis na paglago ng ating ekonomiya sa nakalipas na 40 taon. Ang target natin: Palaguin pa ang ekonomiya na 7 hanggang 8 porsiyento ngayong taon. Kapag nagtagumpay tayo, ang resultang six-year average ang magiging pinakamabilis na paglago ng ekonomiya sa nakalipas na 60 taon.

Dagdag pa rito, nakamit natin ang all-time high na foreign direct investments na $6.2 billion nitong 2014. Kapag maganda ang ekonomiya, mas nabibigyan tayo ng kakayahang maglingkod sa ating mga kababayan. Nahihikayat ang mga negosyanteng mamuhunan sa atin, na siya namang lumilikha ng trabaho para sa lahat ng Pilipino.

Nitong Enero nga po, nasa 1.04 milyon ang nadagdag sa bilang ng mga Pilipinong nagtatrabaho.

Noon naman pong Oktubre ng taong 2014, naitala ang six percent unemployment rate sa bansa; ito ang pinakamababa sa loob ng isang dekada. Linawin ko lang din po: Hindi ito ‘yung tipong namasukan kang tagalinis ng kalsada nang isang linggo, kasali ka na sa bilang ng may trabaho.

Ang tinutukoy natin: permanenteng trabaho.

Habang dumadami naman ang nagbubukas na pagkakataon, sinisikap nating masulit ito ng ating mga kababayan. Katuwang nga po ang Canada, mayroong Jobstart Philippines program ang ating Department of Labor and Employment na nagkakahalagang $3.6 million. Layunin nitong pabilisin ang pagkakaroon ng trabaho ng ating kabataan sa pamamagitan ng career guidance services, life skills at technical training, at internship program; muli, mula sa tulong ng Canada. Patuloy naman ang pakikipag-ugnayan ng TESDA sa Department of Labor and Employment, sa CHED at maging sa Deped, upang siguruhing may sapat na kasanayan ang ating graduates na punan ang bakanteng trabaho sa merkado. Meron tayong national job fairs; nariyan din ang PhilJobNet na naglilista ng mga bakanteng trabaho sa kanilang websites. Iba na po talaga ngayon: Noong bata ako, ang mga sign na lagi nating nakikitang nakapaskil,

diaryofilipino.com

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

“No Vacancy.” Ngayon po, napakarami nang “For Immediate Hiring.” ‘Yung ibang kompanya nga po, sabi nga, may pakulo pa na ‘pag nagpapa-interview ka sa kanila. Isipin po n’yo, noong araw, para ma-interview ka ng kompanya, katakot-takot na pakiusap ang gagawin mo. Ngayon, ‘pag nagpa-interview ka sa kanila, binibigyan ka pa ng almusal. Meron naman pong, ang sabi, “‘Pag natanggap ka na namin, ‘pag binlowout mo ‘yung pamilya mo, ‘yung celebratory dinner, sagot na rin nila.” Sabi ko, “Bakit wala kaya ‘yon noon noong ako’y bagong graduate?”

Noong bumisita naman tayo sa Bicol State University, nasabi sa akin, nahihirapan silang punuin ang Accounting Department nila. Sabi ko, “Di ba meron kayong Accountancy program dito?” Meron daw po.

Pero ang mga estudyante nila, nasa 3rd year pa lang ay nire-recruit na ng mga accounting at auditing firms. At pagkatapos po nito–3rd year pa lang, may 4th year pa, may Board Exams pa, may review–eh talaga pong, dahil sila ang nagte-train, at sila po ang nawawalan ng accountant pagkatapos nilang na-train.

Lahat po ng ito, nangyayari dahil talagang naghahatid ng trabaho ang transpormasyon ng ating lipunan.

Determinado tayong linangin ang kakayahan ng mamamayan natin para mapanghawakan nila ang mga oportunidad na dala ng pagbabago. Ang ating Technical Education and Skills Development Authority, sa pangunguna po ni Secretary Joel Villanueva, tumaas ang budget nang 84 percent; at kitang-kita po ang direktang pakinabang nito. Isipin na lang po ninyo: Noong maupo tayo sa puwesto, nakapagtala na ang TESDA ng mahigit 7.15 million graduates sa iba’t ibang kurso sa technical and vocational education and training. May kuwento nga po ang ating butihing TESDA Secretary Joel Villanueva tungkol sa isa sa kanilang mga graduate: Noong bata raw pa ho, sabi nitong tao, gusto raw maging mekaniko at nag-training siya sa TESDA. Malaon po, naging mekaniko ito at nagtatrabaho na siya sa Australia. Kung tatanungin n’yo kung magkano ang sinasahod ng kababayan nating ito, sabihin na lang natin pong doble sa suweldo ng Pangulo ng Republika ng Pilipinas ang suweldo niya. Kaya palagay ko po, dadaan din ako sa TESDA, July 1, 2016. Noong pag-upo po natin, nandiyan na ang TESDA, 28 percent ang nakukuha ng trabaho sa loob ng anim na buwan pagkatapos mag-graduate.

Ngayon po, ang numero ay 70 percent placement within six months after graduation. Meron pa hong

10 words pumapalo ng 96 percent sa ibang industriya.

Pag-usapan naman natin ang imprastruktura, na kakabit ng isang umuunlad na lipunan. Kapag umuwi nga po kayo sa Pilipinas at makapag-ikot kayo, baka kayo na mismo ang makakita at makaranas ng pagbabago–maayos na kalsada, tulay, at iba pang bagong imprastruktura. Gawa po iyan ng pagpapakitang-gilas at tapat na serbisyo ng Department of Public Works and Highways, sa pamumuno ni Secretary Babes Singson. Kung dati, talamak ang anomalya sa ahensiya dahil sa kickback at tongpats, ngayon, ang kulturang umiiral dito ay mabubuod sa tinatawag nating 5Rs: right projects at the right cost, right quality, and right on time, and implemented by the right people. Kaya naman di na nakakapagtaka na ang savings ng ahensiya hanggang nitong Marso ng taong kasalukuyan, umabot na sa halos P39 bilyon na puwede pong gamitin para sa iba pang makabuluhang mga proyekto.

Para mabigyan lang po ng diin, tingnan na lang natin ang ginawa nating underpass sa Araneta at Quezon Avenue noong 2012. Ang dinatnan nating budget para dito–‘yung ginawa ng ating pinalitan–sabi nila kailangan ng P694 million. Tinignan po ni Secretary Singson. At dahil sa tamang proseso, kinumpleto ang proyekto.

At ang tunay na binayaran natin ay hindi po ‘yung 690 [million pesos], naging P430 million. Ibig sabihin po: P264 million ang natipid natin. Ang maganda pa, dahil talagang masinop si Secretary Singson, natapos ‘yung proyekto, 100 days ahead of schedule.

Bukod dito, tinapos na rin natin ang mga imprastrukturang tila hanggang “drawing” na lang dahil napakatagal nang nakatengga. Nariyan po ang isang tulay, ang pangalan ay “Lullutan Bridge” sa Isabela na pinuntahan natin nitong Abril. Isipin po n’yo: 1995 pa nasira ang tulay na ito, pero tayo na ang nagkumpleto, or tayo pa ang kailangang magkumpleto, upang wakasan ang 20 taong pagdurusa ng ating mga kababayan.

Ang resulta: Ang biyaheng dating inaabot nang isa’t kalahati hanggang dalawang oras para makatawid sa kabilang baybayin, ngayon limang minuto na lang.

[Palakpakan] ‘Yong mga opisyal po natin sa Isabela, malaki ang bilib sa akin.

Habang ini-inaugurate po ‘yung Lullutan Bridge, sabi nila, “May pangalawang tulay ho kaming kailangan.”

Noong maliwanang na pong mailalagay sa budget muli sa 2016, para magawa na itong tulay na ito. “Maliwanag na ‘yan. Meron pa ho kaming pangatlong tulay.” Sabi ko, “Pakitingnan po ninyo iyong bulsa ko,

Talumpati-Speech Matuwid-Righteous Reporma-Reform Tugon-Answer Makabuluhan-important Tinataya-estimate Wakasan-To end Pagtitipon-Gathering Nakatengga-On Standby Makipagsapalaran-Explore wala ‘yung mga tulay dito.

Pero ‘pag pinagtulong-tulungan natin, makakaya natin.”

Isa pa hong halimbawa, ang Jalaur River Multipurpose Project II. Ito po’y sa Iloilo. 1960 po noong naisip gawin, pero sa administrasyon lang natin ito naisakatuparan o ginagawa sa kasalukuyan. Nariyan din ang Aluling Bridge sa Ilocos Sur naman na plinano noong 1978. Iyon po ay nasa college na po ako, kaka-graduate ko pa lang ng high school, pero tayo rin ang nagtapos. Idagdag ko na rin ang Tarnate-Nasugbu Road, na bagaman anim na kilometro lang ang haba ay inabot nang 20 taon bago natapos; tayo na rin po ang gumawa at nagbukas nito. Kung tutungo ka sa Norte, nariyan na rin po ang Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway o TPLEX, na talagang ngayon pa lang ho ay nagpapababa na ng biyahe patungo ng Baguio.

At tinatayang magiging tatlong oras at kalahati na lang.

Tingnan naman po natin ang Sandatahang Lakas natin, tuloy-tuloy po ang nararanasang transpormasyon. Noon, dahil sa kakulangan sa kanilang mga kagamitan at kasanayan, parang lagi silang napapasabak sa “mission impossible.”

Iba na po ang sitwasyon ngayon. Mas moderno na ang ating unipormadong hanay, at mas pinalakas na ang kanilang kakayahan.

Halimbawa po: Dati ang ating dinantnan, nag-iisang C-130 na aircraft. Ngayon po, tatlo na–meron pa ho tayong binibiling mga iba.

Mayroon na rin tayong dalawang Hamilton class cutter–mga modernong barko po ito para sa mas epektibong pagbabantay ng ating baybayin. Bukod sa mga ito, bumili na rin tayo–uulitin ko po, hindi ipinamana sa atin–bumili ng bagong 12 FA-50 aircraft mula sa South Korea, walong combat utility

helicopters. Sa lahat ng ito, naaalala ko ang sabi ng isang bagong graduate ng PMA nitong taon: Salamat daw sa atin at ang Air Force natin ngayon, meron nang “force” at di na lang puro “air.”

Tingnan din natin ang pagbabago sa DOST-PAGASA. Noon, ang hepe ng ahensiyang inabutan natin, napakatagal na sa puwesto.

Parang dinadaan sa hula ang weather forecast.

[Tawanan] Kasi isipin n’yo, imbes na iulat ang totoong lagay ng panahon, tinitipid ang inire-report na impormasyon. Tuloy, mali-mali ang kanilang nagiging ulat. Halimbawa po: May dumating na bagyo noon, at sinabi nila, ito po ay tatama sa Aurora–lalawigan ng Aurora. Eh ako po’y nandoon sa Quezon City nakatira noong panahon na iyon, nasa bahay namin sa Times. Tapos sabi ko, “Kalakas naman nitong bagyong ‘to. Nasa Aurora ‘to pero parang humahagupit sa Maynila.” ‘Yun pala, nasa Southern Tagalog ‘yung bagyo at tumama sa Kamaynilaan. Talagang sabi ko, “Kalaki naman ng bagyo. Ang laki-laki nga ng bagyong ito.” Isipin n’yo, Aurora hanggang Metro Manila nasakop niya minsanan. Ang masakit nito, noong nakausap natin ang mga taga-Aurora, eh doon daw ho, maaraw at saka mainit.

Ito nga po ang naging tugon natin. Alam n’yo ba, napakaimportante ng gawain ng PAGASA. ‘Pag sinabing dito pupunta, maghahanda tayo doon.

‘Pag mali ang direksiyon na itinuro sa atin, mali ang gagawin nating paghahanda. Tama ho ba?

At lalaki ang perwisyo at kapahamakan sa ating mga kababayan.

Ang naging tugon natin, pinalitan natin ang hepe ng ahensiya. Pinagkalooban natin ang PAGASA ng modernong kagamitan continued on page 16

diaryofilipino.com

15

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Mannychanic

J

Juan 7 simple steps to built a good More relationship with your Mechanic.

Hirit Annulment Ang magasawang Juan at Inday ay dumulog sa korte para magpaannul.

Judge: Ano ang dahilan para kayo magpaannul?

Inday : (Nagsalita habang nakayuko) Your honor, katawan lang ang gusto niya sa akin.

Judge: Anong pruyba mo?

Inday : (Nakayuko pa rin) Tuwing nag love making kami tinatakpan niya ng towel ang mukha ko.

Judge: Ikaw Mister bakit mo ginawa yun?

Juan: No comment your Honor. Just see for yourself.

Inday : (Nagalit at ihinarap ang mukha sa Judge) See bastos talaga ang taong yan.

Judge: (Habang nakatingin kay Misis.)

Annulment petition granted. Ikaw naman lalaki, bakit ngayon ka lang nagfile ng annulment? Ang tiyaga mo Spelling JUAN: Sinong idol mong artista PEDRO: Si Arnold Schwarzenegger JUAN: Sige nga, spell mo.

PEDRO: No, pare. Joke lang, si Jet Li talaga ang idol ko.

Bayad Pedro: Pare, bilhin ko na kambing mo, 700.

Juan: Ang barat mo naman.

Pedro: Sige, 800.

Juan: Ayoko pa rin Pedro: Kalahating-libo Juan: Sige Humble JUAN: Pare, dati MAYABANG ako pero ngayon HUMBLE na ko!

PEDRO: Wow, talaga?

Kailan mo pa nabago yan?

JUAN: Simula nung naging PERFECT ako!

Magandang Asal JUAN: Nay alam nyo pinatayo ako ni itay sa bus para ibigay upuan kosa babae!

INAY: Anak magandang asal yun!

JUAN: Kahit nakakandong po ako kay itay?

Manny Perez CONTRIBUTOR

Be loyal to a good technician. A good technician knows that he/she needs to provide you with honest, quality work at a fair price if they want your loyalty. If you find a repair shop that does this, do not shop around.

A tech or repair shop that you’ve developed a winwin relationship with will often reward your loyalty by waiving minor fees or offering special incentives to their best customers.

OFFER TRUST There are times that repairing the most immediate or obvious problem results in identifying other, often more serious issues that could not be readily diagnosed prior to the repair work. A good tech will communicate this possibility to you during the diagnostic phase; be prepared and do not become defensive when it happens. If you

know your tech well, you should trust that she/he is telling you the truth, and not just trying to “up-sell” you. Remember, your tech did not cause the problem - he’s just the messenger.

TAKE CARE OF YOUR CAR Auto technicians do not relish telling their customers that they need expensive repair work, especially if it is due to lack of proper maintenance. What they do enjoy are customers that get their regularly-scheduled maintenance done, i.e. oil changes, tune-ups, fluid flushes, etc. These services add years to your car’s life, often result in better gas mileage, and give your tech the opportunity on a consistent basis to look your car over for any fluid leaks or other “first tells” of more serious issues.

Early detection can often result in a much lower repair bill.

REALIZE THAT YOUR TECH CANNOT READ MINDS If you have had your

car somewhere else for repairs within the last 6 months, tell your technician up-front exactly what was done. If you have noticed fluid under the car, strange noises, running problems, or any other out-of-the-ordinary problem, tell your tech when you bring the car in.

BE HONEST ABOUT THE PROBLEM Some people think that if they tell the mechanic too much the bill will be larger. Just the opposite is true. Hiding symptoms may result in additional diagnosis (which costs money) or, worse, may result is an incomplete or improper repair. Sharing everything you know about what the car is doing is the way to the lowest possible repair bill.

DON’T EXPECT MIRACLES Are your expectations realistic? What is your no. 1 priority? If you are hoping for that ’95 Toyota with over 150K to run like new, you might want to evaluate your expectations

a little bit.

REFER THE GARAGE TO FRIENDS The best compliment is to

bring the shop new business based on your good relationship.

Source: Wikihow

continued from page 8

From Factory Worker to Indie Game Developer

We’re still behind as only a handful has its own original IP games. We’re more inclined on outsourcing.

What do you think are the factors that keep us from lagging behind?

The culture. Working for a company and finding paid work is a surer way.

But in terms of talent and skills we are on the same level I guess. The people are just not more visible because of the Non-Disclosure Agreement with their clients. They can’t say that they coded or designed it.

What happens is that less products appear, unlike other countries in Southeast Asia.

any product to sell so I stopped its development.

And then I got back to flash games again, until I made Kill the Plumber.

The last time I saw you was at Maker Festival Manila promoting the flash version of your game that made it through the Square Enix Collective. Do you have any updates on those projects?

And I believe it’s getting good reviews internationally.

I have released the flash version of the game but the bigger version takes up more time. Then my father died last December.

There was delay on the payments, I did not make

You’ll be in Singapore again this month for Casual Connect to showcase your new game, Kill the Plumber. What is it about?

It’s a collaboration between me and Iskander Aminov, a Russian artist in the US. It’s a game about playing as different enemies of Mario as you try to outwit him from reaching the flag by killing him. It’s a combination of puzzle game mixed with skill and pattern recognition.

“Through the 2015 immigration plan we will welcome a record number of individuals who will contribute to our economy and labour market.”

- Hon. Chris Alexander, MP Minister of Citizenship and Immigration

Respond to Canada’s need for immigrants.

Become a Regulated Immigration Consultant Full-time | Part-time | Online Contact a program adviser or apply online today.

Yeah. And news previews for the mobile version.

Kill the Plumber is scheduled for release around June or July this year for iOS and Android. For updates about Bari’s new game, check facebook. com/killtheplumber.

604.899.0803 | 1.866.759.6006 www.ashtoncollege.ca Ashton College

we build careers

16

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Spiritual

continued from page 14

May is Marian month Fr. Edmund Vargas WRITER

PHOTO BY FUJILICIOUS

To reflect on Mary as Mother of God during this month of May is an opportunity to imitate Mary’s sense of struggling for meaning in life’s troubles and tribulations.

We are not to portray the motherhood of Mary and of all mothers as idealized in the Hallmark cards for Mother’s Day. Behind the sweetness and serenity of most Marian portraits are the bitter moments and turbulent experiences she has to go through as a mother and as a believer.

Mary’s distinctive role in the Christian faith is capsulized in the phrase born of a woman.

Theologians are quite right when they refer to Mary as the first follower of Christ, being with from Bethlehem to Calvary.

Her challenge to understand the mystery of her Son’s life reaches a high point when she listens to the story of the shepherds, narrated in today’s gospel. Her response is acceptance. She does not ask for explanations. She decides to look forward to the fulfillment of the promise of God’s messen-

diaryofilipino.com

ger during the Annunciation. Her attitude is summarized in today’s gospel: “But Mary treasured all these words and pondered them in her heart.”

As we focus on the admirable qualities of motherhood, we should see these virtues as something we all can develop and share with others. The responsibility of nurturing those around us is not exclusive to mothers. It is a responsibility which we can all assume as individuals and as community.

This does not diminish the unique role of motherhood. This avoids the trap of putting the burden on mothers of perpetuating long-held stereo-types that these are mother’s special roles and excuse ourselves from the responsibility of sharing in the life-giving, nurturing, reconciling functions that we have come to expect from mothers. To truly respect the qualities of mother, we must maintain that they are equally valid for all of us.

The Church is oftentimes referred to as Mother Church. Becoming Church, as the Sacrament of Christ, is beyond gender or roles. As Church, we are called upon to acquire and exercise the qualities of God’s love in our daily

relationships, particularly in the family. To be Church is to combine all

our gifts and talents in the pursuit of our common vision of a better world.

Sarah G Perfect 10

Canadian Tour Concert in Calgary, April 2015

Si PNoy sa Canada tulad ng Doppler radars, automated rain gauges, at water level monitoring sensors para bigyan sila ng higit na kakayahan sa pagmonitor ng bagyo. Bukod sa ating early-warning system na nagbibigay ng palugit, o hindi bababang palugit, na anim na oras para makapaghanda ang mga komunidad, nariyan din ang Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards o Project NOAH, kabilang na ang mga multi-hazard maps, na tumutulong na matukoy ang mga lugar na peligroso tuwing may sakuna. Ngayon, ‘pag may bagyo, itaga mo sa bato, maibibigay ng PAGASA kung saan ito dadaan, gaano kalakas ang dala nitong hangin, at gaano karami ang ibubuhos na ulan. Sa pamamagitan nito, nagagabayan ang ating Local Government Units na bigyan ng babala ang kanilang mamamayan sa posibilidad ng storm surge at flash floods, at sa gayon ay makalikas sila kung kakailanganin. Ngayon nga po, puwede na nating sabihing “Ang PAGASA, totoong may pag-asa na.”

Ganito na po magtrabaho ang inyong gobyerno. Tinutukoy natin ang tunay na problema, upang makapaglatag ng wastong solusyon. Gayundin, sinisipat natin ang pagtugon sa problema sa paraang maaaring makapagbigay ng pagkakataon sa ating mga kababayan. Isa pong halimbawa nito ang proyektong umusbong sa Davao Oriental, matapos silang hagupitin ng Bagyong Pablo noong 2012. Dahil sa lakas ng bagyo, nabuwal ang mga puno ng niyog na pinagkukunan, o pangunahing pinagkukunan, ng kabuhayan ng ating mga kapatid na magsasaka.

Kung hihintayin pa nilang tumubo ulit at lumaki ang mga puno, aabutin sila nang pitong taon. At saan kukuha ng panghanapbuhay kung wala itong mga punong ito? Ang naging solusyon po, o isa sa mga naging solusyon: ang proyekto pong binansagang “Hot Pablo.” Baka po may magtatanong: Bakit kaya “Hot” na, “Pablo” pa?

‘Yun po kasing produkto nila, chili powder kaya “Hot,” at kinabit sa “Pablo” dahil nag-umpisa nito’y ‘yung pangalan ng bagyo.

Ayon sa ating Department of Trade and Industry, mamuhunan ka nang P90,000 kada ektarya kada taon para sa produktong ito, kayang lumago hanggang P200,000 ang kita sa bawat pag-ani. At iyon po ang gross. Nasa P110,000 ang netong kita sa investment ng P90,000; lampas 100 percent ang inangat ng kapital. Panalo, di po ba? Naitala na sa P7.62 million ang domestic sales ng Hot Pablo; pero mas malaki di-hamak ‘yung kasama diyan na exports na siguradong mas malaki ang halaga. ‘Yan nga po ang dulot ng pagtutulun-

gan ng pamahalaan at ng pribadong sektor: Mas napalawak ang oportunidad sa pag-asenso ng ating mga magsasaka.

Ngayon nga po, talagang usap-usapan na ang iba’t ibang produkto ng niyog. Pangunahin na rito ang coconut water. Kung dati, itinatapon lang ang sabaw ng niyog, ngayon pinagkakakitaan na ito.

Isipin ninyo: Noong 2010, nasa 1.8 million liters lang ng coco water, na nagkakahalagang $1.8 million, ang in-export natin. Noon pong 2014, 21.7 million liters na ng coco water ang iniluwas ng Pilipinas, at katumbas nito: $32.9 million. Bukod sa coco water, nariyan din ang coco coir at coco peat.

Ang good news po: magagamit na rin ang Coco Levy fund sa pagpapaunlad ng ating mga niyugan. Nagpapasalamat tayo sa Korte Suprema sa kanilang final judgment na pahintulutan ang paggamit ng pondong halos P73 bilyong mula sa Coco Levy Fund. Gagamitin natin ito para paunlarin ang industriya ng niyog at buhaying muli, at para suportahan ang kabuhayan ng ating mga magsasaka.

Ang tutok natin: Ituloy ang ating agenda ng reporma. Kung dati, pangarap lang lahat ng ating napagtagumpayan, ngayon totoo na ang mga ito. Tinutugunan na natin ang mga problema, para hindi na ito maipamana pa sa susunod sa atin. Pinapalawak natin ang oportunidad sa bansa, at pinaghahandaan ang kinabukasan, para hindi na maging sapilitan ang pangingibang-bayan. Batid natin: Bigyan lang ng pagkakataon, tiyak magpapakitang-gilas ang Pilipino.

Ito na nga lang po ang hamon sa ating lahat: Diligan pa ang ipinunla nating mga reporma sa Daang Matuwid; pagyamanin pa ang maganda nating nasimulan; patuloy pang abutin ang mga pangarap na inakala nating hindi natin mararating. Magagawa natin ito, kung muling pipiliin ng Pilipino ang mga nararapat na pinuno. Tulad ng makailang beses nang pinatunayan ng ating lahi: Basta’t sama-sama, lahat ng hamon, gaano man ito kahirap ay kayang lampasan; anumang pangarap, gaano man ito katayog, kaya nating abutin. Sa pagkakaisa at malasakit sa isa’t isa, tiyak, mararating natin ang nais nating paroonan: Isang patas, maunlad, at masiglang Pilipinas.

Mga Boss, isang karangalan po sa akin ang makapaglingkod sa lahing Pilipino. Kayo pa rin ang aking lakas. Kayo pa rin ang gumawa, at patuloy na gumagawa ng pagbabago.

Kayo pa rin ang nagpapatunay na “The Filipino is worth dying for,” “The Filipino is worth living for,” at talagang “The Filipino is worth fighting for.” Magandang gabi po sa inyong lahat. Maraming salamat po.

diaryofilipino.com

17

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

from the Readers: Madame KC

KC “Ang tao parang tanga, naliligayahan sa kasinungalingan, nagagalit sa katotohanan, ngumingiti kahit nahihirapan at higit sa lahat nagmamahal kahit nasasaktan” MadameKC

CONTRIBUTOR

Dear Madame KC,

Dalawang buwan na akong nagdadalang tao sa aking childhood boyfriend. Nabuo ito ng ako’y nagbakasyon sa Pilipinas.

May asawa at anak na siya.

Ako naman ay isang taon ng hiwalay at may tatlong anak.

Maraming magagandang plano si childhood boyfriend para sa amin.

Gusto na niyang iwan ang kanyang asawa dahil hindi naman sila magkasundo, para silang aso’t pusa kung magbangayan.

Pinauuwi na niya ako ng Pilipinas at doon na daw ako manirahan upang magsasama na kami.

Gusto rin niyang ako ang mamahala sa negosyong itatayo niya.

Nahuli ko ang aking ex-husband na nangangaliwa habang ako’y nagbubuntis sa aming bunsong anak. Ang masakit dito, matalik na kaibigan ko pa ang kanyang kalaguyo.

Parang hindi ako sangayon sa kanyang gusto.

Taliwas sa aking mga desisyon. Balak kong ipatanggal ang batang nasa sinapupunan ko. At kalimutan ang lahat-lahat.

Parang isang masamang

Napakalaki po ng aking dinadalang problema kung kaya’t hindi na ako magpapaligoy-ligoy pa.

panaginip na gusto ko ng magising. Masyadong komplikado ang lahat. Sana’y matulungan mo ako.

Umaasa, Mama Gee

Dear Mama Gee, May kasabihan na : ‘’Once is enough twice is too much’’. Malaki nga ang dinadala mong problema ngunit marami kang dapat timbangin sa bawat desisyon na gagawin mo at hindi solusyon ang isa na namang pagkakamali.

Your head tells you to go, but your heart tells

you to stay but you need to follow your head this time. Your feelings are just temporary; they will change later.

upang maging magulang lang. I hope you will consider adoption not abortion.

Alam kong nasaktan ka ng inyong ex-husband and you deserve to find someone better. Pero sana kung sakaling buksan mo ang iyong puso at muling magmahal maging maingat kana. Mas masarap kung may minamahal ka na hindi mo kailangan manakit at mang-agaw.

What is right is often forgotten by what is convenient.

There is no pillow so soft as a clear conscience.

Kung hindi mo naman kayang palakihin ang batang nasa iyong sinapupunan, sana’y maisip mo ang mga taong gustong mag karoon ng anak na handang gawin ang lahat

Isuko mo ang lahat ng iyong pasanin sa ating Panginoon at humingi ng patawad at patnubay.

Praying for You, Madame KC

‘’Sometimes the hardest thing to do is the right thing to do’’

Dahil Kailangan Makarating

ALBERTA

Balikbayan Boxes Travel & Tours Air Parcel Money Remittances

Open 7 days a Week

Mon. to Sat. = 9:00am to 6:00pm Sun. = 10:00am to 4:00pm

We pick up outside Calgary!

($8.00 - Service Fee)

1

BALIKBAYAN Box Calgary Price

Manila Suburbs Luzon 1 Luzon 2 Visayas Mindanao

Drop Off Price

Pick Up

$50.00 $55.00 $60.00 $65.00 $70.00 $80.00

$60.00 $65.00 $70.00 $75.00 $80.00 $90.00

Send 1 BALIKBAYAN Box & get FREE shipping of Bulilit Box (pay only $5.00 for Bulilit empty box) Call us for details

2

REGULAR Box

Calgary Price

Manila Suburbs Luzon 1 Luzon 2 Visayas Mindanao

Drop Off Price

Pick Up

$55.00 $60.00 $65.00 $70.00 $75.00 $85.00

$65.00 $70.00 $75.00 $80.00 $85.00 $95.00

Send 2 REGULAR Boxes & get FREE shipping of Bulilit Box (pay only $5.00 for Bulilit empty box) Call us for details

Accredited Member

We are currently hiring Agents For After Office Pick Up Pls. Call 403.399.2912 or 403.399.2553 Direct Shipping from Calgary to the Philippines www.forex-orientalcargo.com www.forextraveldeals.com

Toll Free: 1.866.503.6739

3

We accept Debit/ Visa/Mastercard

BULILIT Box

Calgary Price

Manila Suburbs Luzon 1 Luzon 2 Visayas Mindanao

Drop Off Price

Pick Up

$30.00 $30.00 $35.00 $40.00 $45.00 $50.00

$45.00 $45.00 $50.00 $55.00 $60.00 $65.00

We will match our Competitor’s prices!

18

MAY 2015

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Showbiz

TFC heralds the ‘Galing’ of the Filipino youth in newest SID Second generation Pinoys, organizations and world-class talents shine in TFC’s newest station ID that lets the whole world know of the innate greatness of the Filipino youth

May 16, 2015 (Redwood Shores, California) – Upwardly mobile but deeply grounded. Some physically uprooted but still culturally connected.

Fun-loving but ready for the challenges ahead.

These are just a few words that speak of the many greatness of the Pinoy youth around the world and which premier network The Filipino Channel (TFC) captures in its newest station ID, “Galing ng Filipino.” TFC, the only network that truly understands Pinoys across the world and across time, will unveil this Sunday, May 17, the “Galing ng Filipino,” the very first station ID that talks about the dynamic, 2nd generation of Filipinos around the world and how they herald their greatness while continuing to honor their heritage.

The Race of the Champions The song, “Galing ng Filipino” essays how the Filipino youth is part of a ‘race of champs’ because he faces whatever challenges that come his way, overcomes them no matter what and no matter where they are, all with a vibrant, and resilient Pinoy spirit. The station ID, shot in key areas in the Philippines, U.S., Canada, Middle East, Europe and Australia, features real Filipino icons and community youth leaders who made a difference in the lives of their fellowmen through their own ‘galing’ or greatness in the fields of visual arts, literature, performing arts, social responsibility and advocacy.

These iconic Filipinos who in the key words of the station ID explore, create, give back, conserve, write, perform and champion the Filipino talent

and heritage in their own fields are: New Zealand-based Kiwi-Pino Ambassadors Filifest, “X Factor” Australia Season 6 Grand Champion Marlisa Punzalan, Filipino-Australian samaritans Gawang Laya; eloquent artist Ala Paredes from Australia; National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) Systems Engineer Josephine-Santiago Bond, philanthropists SoulCiety, Fil-Am street musician CryWolffs, and 2nd generation Fil-Canadian advocates ANAK from North America; Olympic figure-skater Michael Martinez, communitybuilder Alex Eduque of Habitat for Humanity, Filipino ‘spaceman’ Chino Roque; young environmental warriors Youth for Environment School Organization, and student marine conservationists UP Marine Biological Society from the Philippines; Filipino-British (Fil-Brit) cultural advocates and envoys Philippine Generation, award-winning Fil-Brit cultural performers Lahing Kayumanggi, and part-British, part-Filipino food ambassadors Adobros who promote Pinoy cuisine, from Europe; and Dubai-based arts catalysts Brown Monkeys; award-winning writer/editor and fearless blogger Reina Tejano from the Middle East.

The Generation Y Chinky de Jesus, ABS-CBN North America managing director says the Filipino youth is becoming a force to reckon with. De Jesus shares: “There are 10.2 million Filipinos overseas and among them is a growing number of 2nd generation Filipinos who are finding their place and voice in this world.

They are transforming the picture of what it means to be a young

Filipino today. They are undaunted community leaders, world-class artists and talents, passionate advocates of Filipino culture and global adventurers who celebrate the environmental bounty of the Philippines.

Whatever they do, they all reflect the Filipino’s remarkability, resilience and rootedness that TFC honors through the new station ID ‘Galing ng Filipino.’”

Pamela Castillo, head of ABS-CBN Global Marketing Services adds that TFC’s new station ID does not only recognize their achievements. “The station ID also shows how they value their Filipinoness, how they respect their heritage, and how they interweave this into their passions in such a way that erases the differences in generations and propagates the Filipino culture anywhere in the world.”

‘Galing’ of the Filipino Youth The song “Galing ng Filipino” which was first launched to mark the premier network’s two decades of service and commitment to Filipinos all over the world and to celebrate the greatness of the Filipino, was first performed by TFC’s 20th Anniversary Ambassador Gary Valenciano. The “Galing ng Filipino,” the version that speaks to the youth, now features “The Voice” finalist and young total performer Darren Espanto with electronic dance music (EDM) arranged and performed

by Hollywood DJ Tom Taus.

Ned Legaspi, Global Content head shares that while searching the world for young artists to represent these Filipino youth, he says that Espanto and

diaryofilipino.com

COCO MARTIN STARS IN ABS-CBN’S TV ADAPTATION OF FPJ’S “ANG PROBINSYANO.”

ABS-CBN and Dreamscape Entertainment Television officially announced that Teleserye King Coco Martin will topbill the TV adaptation of “Ang Probinsyano,” one of the classic films of ‘Da King’ Fernando Poe Jr. Through the partnership of ABSCBN and FPJ Productions, “Ang Probinsyano” will be the newest FPJ classic that will be turned into a drama series featuring the

heroism of the country’s policemen. According to the Queen of Philippine Movies Susan Roces, her late husband Da King entrusted the library of all his films under FPJ Production to ABS-CBN president and CEO Charo Santos-Concio. Completing the powerhouse cast of “Ang Probinsyano” are Albert Martinez, Angeline Quinto, Arjo Atayde, Bela Padilla, and Jaime

Fabregas. It is under the direction of Avel Sunpongco and Malu Sevilla.

Watch out for Coco’s newest drama series, “Ang Probinsyano” on ABS-CBN. For more information about the program, visit Dreamscape Entertainment Television’s official social networking site at Facebook.com/DreamscapePH, Twitter.com/DreamscapePH, and Instagram. com/DreamscapePH.

We sell Philippine made beauty products: Maxipeel, Placenta, Ponds, Eskinol, etc.

Other Products: Cargo Boxes, Dry & Frozen products, Phone cards, GMA TV Pinoy Distributor, Bakery Products.

Tel: (403) 984-8100 12-3803 26th Ave SW, Calgary, AB T3A 6V7 Taus resonated with the TFC team. Legaspi affirms: “Given their background as genuine overseas Filipinos, their world-class talent and continued linkages to the motherland, Darren and Tom are the personifications of the Filipino millennials or Gen Y as the industry calls them.”

The song “Galing ng Filipino,” written, recorded and produced

by Jonathan Manalo Star Music content head, with additional lyrics by Jay Santiago was performed by the ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra under the baton of maestro Gerard

Salonga. The station ID showcasing underwater and aerial shots, including material from the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), which all capture the second generation Filipino vibe that reverberates across the world, was a collaboration between ABS-CBN Global Content and North America teams, led by Ned Legaspi, Chinky de Jesus, John-d Lazatin, Jun del Rosario, Pam Castillo and Nerissa Fernandez.

It was produced under the supervision of Aileen Paredes, Herbs Samonte and Joel Barquez with their production team, Ma-an Asuncion-Dagñalan, ER Alviz,

Store Hours: Mon & Tues: Wed & Sat: Thursday: Sunday:

11am-8pm 10am-8pm 11am-9pm 11am-7pm

Alex Castro, Merwin De Mesa, Jacqueline See and Eugene Laudit.

Celebrate the Filipino youth and witness the worldwide launch of TFC’s newest station ID on May 17 on ASAP 20 across TFC’s various platforms: internet protocol television (IPTV), cable, satellite, mobile and via TFC’s official online service TFC.tv.

Let the whole world know of the ‘Galing ng Filipino’ and use the official hash tag #GalingngFilipino (Data on overseas Filipino population based on 2013 Stock Estimate of OFs)

diaryofilipino.com

Angelito de Jesus

The Filipino Canadian Newspaper of Choice in Alberta and Saskatchewan

Lundbreck Falls The Mini Niagara on the West

PHOTOS & TEXT

It has always been my greatest interests to see nature in action, not just to see the effect after a million years or so in the process but to see the actual moment taking place before my eyes. One that I strive on many of my travels is to see waterfalls; there is something phenomenal about water.

Surely, we cannot discount the effects and definitely we cannot survive without - it restores and destroys and could cause havoc as know it.

My recent travel in the south western Alberta, took me to a place where the force of water; its effects and beauty happens before my eyes. Just a little over 2 hours drive south of Hi way 2 then west of Hi way 3 Crows nest Trail in the municipality district of Pincher Creek along Township 74C, on the side of the road pass the bridge behold Lundbreck Falls dubbed as mini Niagara Falls predominantly to its horseshoe shape and power.

Ample parking near the falls and a few steps from your car, at the edge of wire fence, the massive force of this falls one could not just exhale in awe but to observe what visitors were engaged in their time there. People revel on the challenges it presents – swimming, fishing and undoubtedly for the brave ones – cliff diving.

A curved out stair ways leading to the river’s edge allows access to yet a magnificent view of the falls looking up and several meters away brings you right on the falls where wading or swimming or simply take on some cool mist from the falls on a hot summer day.

My plan of this jaunt is to photograph and hopeful to see it in a unique perspective. As I’ve always done – I don’t just take photos but firstly observe and be one with my surroundings to study and learn from its source and history. Standing beneath the bridge, I quickly surmised a great number of swallows nesting there. They fly around like school of fish in the water busily doing what they’re supposed to be doing without care for my present. Several people enjoying a day of casting line hopeful to catch the big one and some were wading and swimming in chest deep crystal clear water.

I moved around here and there but rested for a bit to take on the view of the falls right in front of it. Gladly, I packed an umbrella as one of an essential piece of my photo arsenal – always

MAY 2015

19

Adventure

Horse shoe shape of the canyon at the falls

Casting a line at Lundbreck Falls

ready whatever element I encounter. It was nearly impossible to take my camera without getting it soaked from the substantial mist pouring over me.

With rain boots on and umbrella on a hat summer day, I am glad to be all prepared to capture some of the best waterfalls images in my collection.

There is a trail adjacent to the stair ways leading up to the opposite side of the bridge. Another breathtaking view can be had overlooking its surroundings and some of the buildings used on the colliery.

A short jaunt to the town to get the feel of its culture and a bite of history was on my agenda to complete my visit here.

As I learned - the town of Lundbreck started off as a coal mine in the early part of the 1900s and population grew steadily to a thousand as people were in demand to work the mine. As the oil discovery in Alberta; it became the fuel of choice for its abundance and many byproducts can be extracted from it - it became the mainstream energy source and killed the coal mining industry until its closure.

Today there are tours that will take you back in the days through travel in the mine and guide explaining its operations. It was named after two coal miners - Lund and Breckenridge who started their mining operation here.

The arch from under the bridge

Home of the 24 Hour Test Drive

We are your full service Calgary Toyota dealer, used Toyota dealership, used Toyota cars, Toyota parts, Toyota service and collision centre centrally located in Calgary, Alberta.

Lease or Finance from as low as 0% on select 2015 models.

Up to $4000 in incentives on select 2015 models.

Armand Flores 403.973.3379 3640 Macleod Trail South Calgary, Alberta, T2G 2P9 www.heningertoyota.com