Filipino Journal Alberta Edition March 2016

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Volume 8, Number 3 • March 2016

Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta Launches a New Vision and Mission

Government of Canada releases its ambitious plan for 2016 immigration levels

Page 5 ►

Pacquiao in LA for crucial stage of training Page 13 ►

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Seated L-R Josephine Pallard, Adviser, Lourdes (Lulu) Bernal, Secretary, Jose (Jun) Angeles President, Wilf (Boy) Ladores, Vice-President, Elmina (Memen) Cochingco, Adviser Standing: Jun Aller (Treasurer), Leticia (Letty) Tria, Auditor, Dory Gonzales (FRAA), Paul Briones and Lito Velasco PRO.

Aylah Provincial Championship Page 18 ►

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

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Minister John McCallum announces legislation to amend the Citizenship Act Liberal government promised during the election to make changes on the restrictive Citizenship Act by the previous Tory government

Minister McCallum

Benedicto Co, an employee, said upon learning the action to be done by the Liberal government, “This is a good news for those friends of mine who want to become Canadian citizens. They told me that there are many restrictions which are difficult to comply with.

Being a Canadian citizen has many benefits.”

One of the newly arrived permanent residents, Ed Labagala, made a comment upon reading the news: “This new Citizenship Act to be amended by the Liberal government, specifically, the abolition of the “2nd Class Citizenship Law” creates a positive effect on us. We would feel that we really belong...”

When Cora Llorico, who arrived in 2013, was asked her comment,

she said: “I am in favour of the proposed amendments of the new Citizenship Act. My family needs not to wait two more years to become a Canadian citizen. We won’t be a second class citizen anymore hence the feeling of being discriminated as obliterated. And I do hope that the application fee will decrease.”

Trudy Buena, a 57 year old senior, is a happy that she will be exempted as the age range for language and knowledge requirements are to be amended to the previous 18-54 age requirements.”Mahirap daw ang mga tanong sa interview, at pwede kang bumagsak, then bayad uli!”

The friends of Benedicto Co, the newly arrived permanent residents Ed Labagala and Cora Llorico; and a senior citizen, Trudy Buena are all excited to become Canadian citizens when Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister John McCallum recently introduced legislation to amend the Citizenship Act, providing greater flexibility for applicants to trying to meet the requirements for citizenship and help immigrants obtain citizenship faster.

"The Government is keeping

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its commitment to repeal certain provisions of the Citizenship Act, including those that led to different treatment for dual citizens.

Canadian citizens are equal under the law.Whether they were born in Canada or were naturalized in Canada or hold a dual citizenship," said Minister McCallum.

Among the changes, the Bill: An Act to Amend the Citizenship Act, would repeal provisions that allow citizenship to be revoked from dual citizens who engage in certain acts against the national interest. All Canadians who commit crimes should face the consequences of their actions through the Canadian justice system.

The Bill also proposes to reduce the time permanent residents must be physically present in Canada before qualifying for citizenship by a full year.

Recognizing that immigrants often build an attachment to Canada before becoming permanent residents, the proposed legislation would credit applicants for the time spent in Canada as temporary residents or protected persons.

The age range to meet French or English language requirements and pass a knowledge test to

qualify for citizenship, would change to 18-54 from 12-64.

The changes support our goal of removing barriers for immigrants to build successful lives in Canada.

Some of the proposed changes of the Citizenship Act include: 1) Repealing the intent to reside provision that raised would be-citizen's fear that their citizenship could be revoked in the future if they moved outside of Canada.In the proposed legislation, all Canadians are free to move outside of Canada. This is a right guaranteed in our Charter of Rights and Freedom; 2) Reducing the length of time someone must be physically present in Canada to

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qualify for Citizenship from four years to three years within the five years; 3) Allowing time in Canada before Permanent Residency to count toward the physical presence requirements, benefiting the refugee claimants and those skilled individuals to come to Canada to study and work; the benefits groups like protected persons and parents and grandparents on visitors' visas; 4) Eliminating the age range for language and knowledge requirements, making the ages under 18 and older 54 will be exempted.

Lastly, Abegail MirandaQuitoriano, a new immigrant, writes: “I have to thank Minister John McCallum for making Canada as a welcoming country. As a new immigrant, all we wanted is a fresh new start in this country, to build a new life. Being away from my native land, Philippines, is not easy but with the new Citizenship Act, we are given an equal rights to call Canada our new home.”

Photo by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal Archives

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Philippine Embassy Conducted First Consular Work in the Arctic

Perspective

by Bob

Gabuna

bob.gabuna@FilipinoJournal.com

Iqaluit – A team of diplomatic and consular staff from the Philippine Embassy – Ottawa enplaned to far north of the 60th parallel above the Arctic line in the largest island in Canada – Baffin Island – to conduct the first consular work in the administrative capital of the Territory of Nunavut, the City of Iqaluit.

In the City of Iqaluit, a terrain covered by centuries old soft peat moss, but concealed by snow in winter time a sparsely populated community, the land of the Inuit (formerly called Eskimos), is the adopted home to some FilipinoCanadians.

Philippine Ambassador to Canada, Petronila Garcia, led a diplomatic and consular mission to Iqaluit from 21 to 24 September 2015 as she called on territorial officials and business leaders, while overseeing the delivery of consular services to a small but growing Filipino Community in the city. Joining the Ambassador

are Consul General Eric Gerardo Tamayo, and Embassy attaches Miguel Moreno and Pio Tejada.

It was the first visit to the new Territory by a Philippine Ambassador in over six years, as Ambassador Garcia was also the first Ambassador to be officially and warmly, received by the new Territorial Commissioner Nellie T. Kasugak, who had just been sworn into office after her appointment in June 2015.

Commissioner Kasugak graciously provided the Ambassador with unique insights into Inuit history and heritage as they discussed the many similarities between Inuit and Filipino culture, beliefs and practices.

The Ambassador also conducted calls and meetings with the Honourable Premier Peter Taptuna, as accompanied

by Cabinet Secretary David Akeeagok. She also met with Minister for Justice, Health and Immigration Paul Okalik, as well as Finance Secretary Keith Peterson. The Ambassador also was also given updates by Mr. Jim Stevens, Assistant Deputy Minister for Transportation on the developments regarding the new airport terminal of Iqaluit.

The Ambassador also met with Federal Senator Dennis Patterson.

The Ambassador expressed interest in facilitating twinning arrangements in a tête-à-tête with Her Worship Mayor Mary Wilman

L-R: Philippine Ambassador to Canada PP Garcia; Senator Dennis Patterson (Nuvanut); Judy Grace Gabuna; Bob Gabuna (hosts).

of Iqaluit. The Ambassador also visited the venue for the 24th Annual Nunavut Trade Show and Conference as she conferred with Baffin Region Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Chris West on pursuing trade and commercial transactions between the Territory and the Philippines. The engagements of the Ambassador were facilitated by the Nunavut Protocol Office headed by designer Nicole Camphaug.

Ambassador Garcia recalled how the people of Nunavut contributed over C$25,000 to the relief and recovery effort in the wake of typhoon Haiyan/Yolanda, making the people Nunavut among the biggest donors on a per capita basis. Bob Gabuna,

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Filipino citizenship, obtain legal documents and NBI clearances, and register for overseas voting in Philippine national elections in 2016.

The Ambassador also made a pitch for the upcoming third edition of the Winter-EscapadeIt's More Fun in the Philippines Tour from 3 to 12 February 2016.

The Ambassador commended the Filipino community in Iqaluit for their contribution to Nunavut society and for working in harmony with one another and with their fellow Nunavummiut.

NOTE: Photos is courtesy of Consul General Tamayo. Details of the report is largely extracted from the file report of the same.

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nominated by the Finance Minister to the Premier of the Territory of Nunavut as Director, Governance Council, WSCC spearheaded the fund drive supported by then Mayor John Graham and the current Principal Secretary to the Premier, Ed Picco.

The Ambassador was given a vibrant Filipino welcome and support from Bob and Judy Grace Gabuna, noted lawyer Anne Crawford and Rhose HarrisGalia as other Filipinos in Iqaluit banded and gathered together to greet the visiting delegation.

The nipa-hut inspired abode of the Gabuna’s served as the consular outpost for the visiting delegation as Filipinos availed themselves of the opportunity to renew their passports, re-acquire

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Contributing Writers: Johnny Cantiveros Gem & Lita Anis Danilo Donor Miya Villarena Naresh Bhardwaj Jairus Bilo Thomas A. Lukaszuk

Melanie Angeles Perry Diaz Jon Salvador Lito Mendoza Velasco Jerry Caingcoy Erlinda Dolly Tan

Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros

Founder, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief- Filipino Journal (1987-2008)

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We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher. Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/ Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

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Government of Canada releases its ambitious plan for 2016 immigration levels Ottawa, On- The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, John McCallum, recently announced that Canada will welcome a greater number of immigrants in 2016- with a special emphasis on family reunification.

The Government of Canada has ambitious plan to bring in between 280,000 and 305,000 new permanent residents in 2016. As we continue to show our global leadership, Canada will reunite families,offer a place of refuge to those fleeing persecution, and support Canada's longterm economic prosperity.

Through the Annual Report on Immigrationwhich includes the 2016 immigration levels planthe government outlined how it will increase levels of family class immigration, which will address the application backlog and reunite families more quickly.

The government will meets its commitments to welcome more refugees to Canada in the process, it will help diversify the Canadian economy and create sustainable growth.

Meeting employees at the Welcome Centre at Toronto's Pearson International Airport

Minister McCallum welcomes 100 new Canadians

The Honourable John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, meets with provincial and territorial ministers responsible for immigration.

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Greeting newly arrived Syrian refugee families at the Montreal Welcome Center

The Honourable John McCallum, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and the Honourable Maryam Monsef, Member of the Cabinet Ad Hoc Committee on Refugees and Minister of Democratic Institutions, welcome newly arrived Syrian refugees at Pearson International Airport

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Maria Ressa visits Edmonton A maple-coated Filipino Heart

by Erlinda

Dolly Tan

erlindatan@yahoo.com

H

ighly respected Filipino journalist and Rappler CEO Maria Ressa visited Edmonton this month to hold a three-day distinguished lecture series at MacEwan University.

The lectures were focused on digital journalism given to communication students and faculty members of the university.

Ressa is the founder and CEO of Rappler, a social news network, one of the biggest in the Philippines with over two million followers.

She also recently launched Rappler Indonesia. Prior to Rappler, she worked at CNN for almost two decades serving as Bureau Chief for Manila and

Jakarta. She also worked as head of ABS-CBN News and Current Affairs Department.

Dr. Rey Rosales, Associate Dean of the Faculty of Fine Arts and Communication said, “Ressa gave such an impressive and inspiring presentations to students and faculty alike. She showed her audience that, with the right imagination, one can succeed in innovating and running a social media news startup.” In her presentation, Ressa showed how journalism evolved from the 1980s to the present. She described how technology had revolutionized it as well as how Rappler is tapping into the realities of 21st century digital-media savvy audiences.

Ressa is a graduate of Princeton University and has a Masters in Journalism from the University of the Philippines.

She was one of the founders of the once-popular investigative TV documentary program called Probe. Throughout her career, she has received various prestigious

Dr. Rey Rosales, Associate Dean of MacEwan University and Maria Ressa, journalist, author and distinguished lecturer.

Maria Ressa answering questions after the lecture.

awards plus an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Investigative Journalism.

Ressa is an author of two books: “From Bin Laden to Facebook” - an investigative account on the spread of terrorism from Afghanistan to Southeast Asia and examines how Facebook was a big part of it. It also includes the ten days which Ressa led the ABS-CBN crisis team in the kidnapping and rescue operation of TV reporter/ anchor Ces Drilon. The other is “Seeds of Terror” - an Eyewitness Account of al-Qaeda’s Newest Center of Operations in Southeast Asia. As CNN’s lead investigative reporter in Asia, she specialized in investigating terrorist networks.

Videotapes of her coverage of terrorism were found in what experts believe to be in Osama Bin Laden’s private videotape collection in Afghanistan.

Ressa and Rosales were both Fulbright scholars.

Maria Ressa giving lectures to students and faculty members of MacEwan University.

Gov’t eager to hear feedback on agri-fisheries programs

T

he current administration of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III is eager to know the comments of farmers, fisherfolks and other agricultural stakeholders on the projects and programs implemented by the government for the farming and fishing sectors.

“President Aquino wishes to know which projects of the Department of Agriculture are effective and that the stakeholders would like to continue,” said Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala during a forum held in Oroquieta City on February 15, 2016.

Alcala added that the feedback coming from the farmers and fishermen is very important so the present leadership can properly turnover the evaluation to the next administration.

“Kabilin bilinan sa akin ni Pangulong Aquino, huwag mong pababayaan ang mga magsasaka’t mangingisda.

Ganyan po kayo kamahal ni Panguloy Noynoy Aquino,” Sec. Alcala told a crowd of more than 2,000 jubilant farmers and fisherfolks who attended the forum in the provincial capitol of Misamis Occidental.

According to DA 10 Regional Executive Director Lealyn Ramos, it is the third time Sec. Alcala is visiting the province as lead implementer of DA Agri-Pinoy programs.

From 2010 until the present, Misamis Occidental has received from the Aquino administration P1.145 billion worth of projects in agriculture and fisheries, said Director Ramos.

During Alcala’s most recent visit, he turned-over P266,983,340.70- worth of farming and fishing support to the province.

In support of the MisOcc’s rice production activities, DA turned-over farm equipment and machineries, including a 4WD tractor, power tillers,

Alberta Filipino Journal reporter Erlinda Tan with Maria Ressa.

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and threshers amounting to P7.461M. The agency also distributed more than P30-M worth of assistance and interventions including corn facilities and farm equipment to organized cooperatives and associations.

In addition, fruit and vegetable producers, as well as livestock growers received assistance packages amounting to a total of P2.37M. “These agricultural interventions came just in time,” Dir. Ramos said.

“Nagsisimula na pong mag-alala ang mga magsasaka at mangingisda dito sa lalawigan kung makakabawi sila sa kabila ng epekto ng mahabang tagtuyot. Wag po kayong mabahala, nandito ang DA para sa inyo,” she said.

During the event, the DA’s Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DA-BFAR) also distributed 98 units 5.5 HP marine engines, 117 bottom set gill nets, 100 sets seaweed farm implements and raffled off 5 units 5.5 HP marine engines, 15 bottom set gill nets, and 10 sets seaweed farm implements for a total of P1,746,216.

The province also received farm-to-market road project from the Philippine Rural Development Project (P129M) from the 2016 General Appropriations Act of the OSEC (P71M). The Provincial Local Government was also awarded certificates of commitment for a project under BUB amounting to P19,940,000 and a P5M slaughterhouse from National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS) “These [awarded assistance] are part of the government’s Agri-Pinoy program, which aims to develop the rural sector, increase production and income of farmers and fishers who are seriously affected with the continuing El Niño phenomenon,” Alcala said.

(Marlo Asis, DA-AFID)

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Forbes ’30 Under 30 Asia’ list includes 10 young Filipinos

T

en Filipinos of different fields made it to the first ever Forbes Magazine’s ’30 under 30 Asia’ list.

Topping the list in the manufacturing and energy category is the 22 year old Leandro Leviste, founder of Solar Philippines.

Also included in the list are Charice Pempengco (23) for Entertainment & Sports, Xyza Cruz Bacani (29) and Ronson Culibrina (24) for The Arts, Koh Martinez Onozawa (26) for Retail & Ecommerce, Rachel De Villa (23) for Finance & Venture Capital, Valenice Balace (27) for

Consumer Tech, Raphael Mijeno (28) and Henry Motte-Munoz (29) for Social Entrepreneurship; and Amin Hataman (15) for Healthcare & Science.

The youngest Filipino in the list was Amin Hataman from Zamboanga who invented a biodegradable plastic made from coconut.

A panel of 30 judges helped decide which young people will make it to the final list.

Judges include actress Michelle Yeoh, designer Kenzo Takada, businesswoman Solina Chau and other experts.

Valenice Balace Ronson Culibrina

Raphael Mijeno

Koh Martinez Onozawa

Leandro Leviste

Charice Pempengco

Henry Motte-Munoz

Xyza Cruz Bacani

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Rachel De Villa

Amin Hataman

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Pacquiao in LA for crucial stage of training Manny Pacquiao flew to Los Angeles on board a Philippine Airlines 777 where he will spend the most crucial stage of his training under Freddie Roach on Monday (Tuesday in Manila) at the Wild Card Boxing Club in Hollywood. The Filipino boxing icon trained in General Santos City for almost a month after doing separate workouts in Manila.

For his part, the 33-year old Tim Bradley is doing his training in the deserts of Palm Springs with new trainer Teddy Atlas.

Monica Bradley, the American fighter’s wife and manager said Bradley and Atlas’ camp has been progressing accordingly.

The 37-year-old fighting congressman will face Bradley on April 9 in Las Vegas.

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Senate starts investigation Duterte wants to on $81-M money laundering kill criminals in the Philippines

T

he Senate Blue Ribbon Committee is now probing the whereabouts of a portion of the US$101 million allegedly hacked from the Bangladesh Bank.

The manager of the Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) Jupiter Branch Maia Santos Deguito declined to discuss details of the transactions, invoking either the Bank Secrecy Law or right against selfincrimination. Deguito requested instead the committee to hold an executive session.

The four account holders in question are under the names of Michael Francisco Cruz, who opened $6 million; Enrico Teodoro Vasquez, who opened $25 million; Alfred Santos Vergara, who opened $19.99 million; and Jessie Christopher Lagrosas, who opened $30 million. The four account holders were not present as they could not be located by the Senate staff in the addresses provided.

Some of the accounts allegedly flowed to William So Go, owner of the DBA Centurytex Trading –

$22.73 million from the account of Lagrosas. Other funds flowed to bank accounts of a certain Wei Kang Xu, Eastern Hawaii Leisure Co. and Bloomberry Hotels, Inc. which operates Solaire Resort and Casinos through Philippine Remittance Service Corp.

(PhilRem).

RCBC president and chief executive officer Lorenzo Tan said the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC) is in the position to discuss the details of the transactions. RCBC legal counsel Laurinda Rogero also said the deposits of their clients are considered confidential because of the Bank Deposit Law.

During the hearing, AMLC commissioner Emmanuel Dooc assured the senators that it would continue its investigation into the hacked $81 million Bangladesh Bank money, and funneled to a Philippine bank.

The Bangladesh Bank had asked the help the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) in tracking down and recovering the $81 million taken from its account in the US Federal Bank of New York million that slipped through the Philippine banking system. Aside from AMLC, the Department of Justice (DOJ) has started its own probe into the $81-million money laundering scheme.

Rodrigo Duterte said he will order the police and the military to find and kill all criminals as he sells himself as a ruthless leader willing to bypass the judicial system in an unprecedented war against crime.

The long-time mayor of Davao City, a lawyer, also outlined his plans if elected president before a cheering crowd of supporters, to eradicate drug traffickers.

Surveys indicate his election strategy of law-and-order platform, is winning him many fans. He has now climbed into second place just four percentage points behind Senator Grace Poe, according to the latest survey by Pulse Asia released this week.

However human rights advocates do not agree about a Duterte presidency. They accuse him of organizing or tolerating vigilante squads that have targeted suspected

criminals and street children in Davao, killing more than 1,000 people since the 1980s.

The long-time mayor of Davao City, a lawyer, also outlined his plans if elected president before a cheering crowd supporters to eradicate drug traffickers surveys indicate his election strategy of law anf order platform is wiining him many fans He has now Climbed into second place just four percentage points behind senator Grace Poe according to the latest survey by pulse sia released

 WWW.CRIMSONCOVEHOMES.COM                           

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Ron Cantiveros (204) 489-8894 ron@FilipinoJournal.com

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

March 2016

The New Catholic Church Corpus Christi Opens for Parishioners in Millwoods

he Solemn Dedication Mass of the Altar and Church of Corpus Christi Parish last March 19, 2016 @10:00AM. His Grace, and The Most Reverend Richard Smith, DD, the Archbishop of Edmonton celebrated the Mass with approximately 1,600 parishioners in attendance.

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March 2016

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Lav Diaz dedicates Berlin award to Filipino culture “Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis” (A Lullaby to the Sorrowful Mystery) is the longest entry ever to compete for the Golden Bear in the Berlin International Film Festival’s 66-year history. The

eight-hour film won for Lav Diaz the Silver Alfred Bauer prize, an annual award given to a film that "opens new perspectives on cinematic art".

The Filipino director said he did the film to remind the Filipinos of our culture and history. He shared how festival jury president, Hollywood star and living film legend Meryl Streep, told him

that she really liked the film as it reminds her of the old way of doing things characterized by patience and commitment.

“Hele sa Hiwagang Hapis” will open starting March 26,

Black Saturday, in select cinemas nationwide. Diaz hopes the local audience will support his film despite its eight-hour running time.

Advertise with us! 204-489-8894 • info@FilipinoJournal.com Let's get social

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Nadine Lustre dominates MYX Music Awards 2016 Nadine Lustre dominated the MYX Music Awards 2016 held Tuesday at the Kia Theatre in Quezon City. The “On the Wings of Love” actress won five awards as Favorite Artist, Favorite Female Artist, Favorite Song and Favorite Music Video for “Me and You.” She also shared the Favorite Collaboration award for her duet with boyfriend James Reid in the song “Hanap Hanap.”

The complete list of winners are: Favorite Music Video: "Me and You" by Nadine Lustre, Directed by Miggy Tanchangco; Favorite Song: "Me and You" Nadine Lustre; Favorite Artist: Nadine Lustre; Favorite Female Artist: Nadine Lustre; Favorite Male Artist: Darren Espanto; Favorite Group: Silent Sanctuary; Favorite Mellow Video: “Dance Without the Music” by Yeng Constantino, Directed by Cristhian Escolano; Favorite Rock Video: “Firepower” by Bamboo, Directed

by Paolo Valenciano; Favorite

Urban Video: “Diwata” by Abra Feat. Chito Miranda, Directed

by Marco Gatchalian and Mark Ginolos; Favorite New Artist: Jason Dy; Favorite Collaboration: “Hanap Hanap” by James Reid and Nadine Lustre; Favorite Remake: “On The Wings of Love” by Kyla; Favorite Media Soundtrack: “On The Wings of Love” by Kyla; Favorite Guest Appearance In A Music Video: Alden Richards for “Kapangyarihan ng Pagibig” by Aicelle Santos; Favorite International Video: “Bad Blood”

by Taylor Swift; Favorite MYX Celebrity VJ: Darren Espanto.

Special Award were given to Best Music Video: “Cerberus”by Abra Feat. Loonie and Ron Henley, Directed by Willian Rivera; and MYX Blogger Award: Sunny Ki. Singer-composer Ogie Alcasid was given the MYX Magna Award, an annual award given to local music icons who have made significant contributions to the music industry.

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March 2016

Marian Rivera’s Facebook page among most liked globally

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he social media analytics site Quintly ranked Marian Rivera’s official Facebook page at the 19th spot in the Top 20 Public Figure Facebook Pages in the world. The Kapuso primetime queen was the only Filipino who landed in the top 20. The 14,930,783 likes also put Marian’s Facebook page as the most liked for any celebrity in the Philippines thus making her the country’s queen in Facebook.

Topping the list was Mr. Bean with 64,868,209 likes. Other international celebrities in the list include Nicki Minaj (#2), Kim Kardashian (#3), Ellen DeGeneres (#4), Hugh Jackman (#5), and US First Lady Michelle Obama (#18).

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March 2016

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta Launches a New Vision and Mission

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he Filipinos are one of the most active members in the multicultural mosaic of Canada . The culture , social and economic activities have been in the front lines and well received by most Canadians. The local activities in the different cities and towns are crowd drawing attention attractions ; and in some provinces Filipinos are involved in politics. There are MP, MLA's Councilors and members of the Board of Trustees. Lately. Tobias Enverga, Jr. was appointed as Senator at Senate of Canada.

Filipinos are talented, resourceful, hard working and contribute a lot to the Canadian society. The image is glowing, the are active, creative, blessed with spirit of volunteerism, humane and educated.

But, there is a missing piece in the jigsaw puzzle of provincial as well as the national level. Truth to tell, we do not have a national and provincial involvement who will represent the Filipino community in the federal and provincial level as compared with other ethnic groups which have been active in voicing out their opinions and ideas in all government levels.

Mostly the local associations voices are within the community walls and not directly involve in

the policy making bodies in the provincial and federal levels.

There are many issues which are affecting Filipinos in Canada, unfortunately ,they are not in the radar of the national and provincial level.

UCFAC (United Council of Filipino Associations in Canada) and NCFA (National Council of Filipino Associations) had been involved in sharing opinions and ideas with the federal representatives for many years.

The officers were involved in shaping some policies in immigration, housing, health and taxation. Conferences were held in various cities. Many ideas and suggestions were formulated but according to some reports those recommendations had not been implemented. UCFAC was replaced by NCFA and after many years of existence , it vanished without a trace.

There are over a million Filipinos now in Canada and close to over 200,000 in the province of Alberta alone; there is a need to form an association that will oversee more in line with the federal and provincial involvement. Thus the formation of Congress of the Philippine Associations of Alberta. A group of Filipino leaders came

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Seated L-R Josephine Pallard, Adviser, Lourdes (Lulu) Bernal, Secretary, Jose (Jun) Angeles President, Wilf (Boy) Ladores, Vice-President, Elmina (Memen) Cochingco, Adviser Standing: Jun Aller (Treasurer), Leticia (Letty) Tria, Auditor, Dory Gonzales (FRAA), Paul Briones and Lito Velasco PRO.

together and on August 31, 2015 a new organization was born.

Jose (Jun) Angeles was elected as President, Wilf (Boy) Ladores, Vice-President, Lourdes (Lulu) Bernal, Secretary, Candelaria (Jun) Aller , Treasurer and Leticia (Letty), Auditor and Lito

Velasco, Press Relation Officer.

Josephine Pallard and Elmina (Memen) Cochingco, Advisers.

This Congress is in line with the Polish National Congress, Ukrainian National Congress, Vietnamese National Congress, Tamil National Congress. Sons of

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Italy, Laotian National Congress, Arab National Congress and others.

Through the leaders and the participation of different Filipino organizations in Alberta, the Congress will spearhead the participation and representation in all the levels of the Government in Canada.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

March 2016

Baby Boomers Tourists Cruise Manila Bay

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group of FilipinoCanadians tourists cruised the Manila Bay for a dinner and entertainment hosted by Jun and Hermie Angeles last February 2016. They boarded the Sun Cruise boat to watch the famous Manila Bay sunset while enjoying a dinner and entertainment. When the sunsetted, the neon lights brighten the evening and city skyline dazzled with beautiful multi colored lights. A magnificent and romantic 'Valentine' treat experience for the group.

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Hence, they need TERMINATORS.

Lesson-Driven Perspective Lito Mendoza Velasco litovelasco65@yahoo.ca Lito Velasco, Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy A homoviator, a catalyst of change. He moves in the light of his Philosophical, Political and Theological backgrounds. He loves challenges and believes he learns and improves his critical thinking from those challenges.

Believe it or not: GOSSIPS and ENVY are Deadly.

Folks, BEWARE of the GOSSIPERS! They are the WORSHIPPERS of others' MISFORTUNES and FAILURES! They are the HOMEWRECKERS! They are the TERMITES of the SOCIETY! They are the HAPPIEST people whenever they saw a neighbor or fellowmen FALLING! They are the MOST DECEIVING, PRETENTIOUS, and CUNNING! They are good in CHARACTER ASSASSINATION!

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

March 2016

People will be walkingdead if victimized by gossip.

It's analogous to a pillow case. The moment the cottons or feathers inside the pillowcase had leaked out of the case's hole, then, that can no longer be retreived or taken back to the pillowcase.

Those pieces of cottons or feathers that flew away and gone by the wind are our ruined reputations which cannot be brought back to us.

So, avoid gossiping. Let us all start practicing to do what is fair and just to ourselves and to others. Let us all have the radical change of heart.

Respect if you want to be respected.

I am telling this to my self too. As I am not perfect!

Another frozen assets attributed to them is the acquisition of one of the Capital sins which is ENVY. Envious people are not happy whenever they saw another people succeeding and happy!

AVOID THEM! They are easy to recognize!

They have a good OLFACTORY SENSE. They come to the rescue when they smell that there are relationships that are about to be in peril. Most of them, but not all of course, and most of the time: When there is a PROBLEM, they are there not to RECONSTRUCT and SAVE, but to DEMOLISH. They always act as comforters and allies!

Before it's too late, honestly, AVOID THEM if you love your FAMILY! Learn to determine who is genuinely attending to your welfare!

May this New Year liberate us all from this Social Neurosis.

Welcome 2016!

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Senator Enverga concerned about report on assisted dying Ottawa, February 25, 2016 – Today, the Honourable Tobias C. Enverga Jr., Senator for Ontario, received the final report of the Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying with great concern.

“I am morally and ethically opposed to any action that ends another human being’s life, and that denies a person the natural life cycle from conception to natural death,” said Senator Enverga in a statement following the tabling of the report in both houses of Parliament. “Bishop Samuel J. Aquila once said: ‘… we must have the courage to proclaim the culture of life for the common good of society. This is a duty and responsibility …’. I am taking this duty seriously in my work as a senator and will do my part to ensure that we protect those most vulnerable in our society from severe risk of harm,” the Senator continued.

The report is the latest step in the process to comply with the Supreme Court of Canada’s judgement in Carter v. Canada (Attorney General), which has given Parliament until June 6, 2016 to provide a legislative

Senator Enverga attends the committee as an observer, February 3, 2016

framework under which persons can obtain assistance in ending their lives before natural death occurs.

“I am reading the report with grave concern, noting a clear lack of safeguards and protection of the vulnerable that are found in other jurisdictions’ relevant legislation on physician-assisted suicide and euthanasia. This report opens the door for minors, persons below the age of 18, to access assisted dying three years down the road; it recommends that persons with psychiatric condition should not be excluded from receiving

medical assistance in dying; and it recommends forcing physicians who oppose the practice based on their conscience to refer patients to other willing physicians, rather than providing information to the patient and reporting the patient’s wishes to a government agency.

There is still much study needed, and I will ensure that the voice of those who are concerned about this report is heard in the Senate of Canada when we debate the report and the forthcoming legislative proposals from the government,” Senator Enverga concluded.

Bongbong accuses PNoy of hate campaign against Marcoses Senator Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. yesterday directly accused President Aquino of being behind a hate campaign against his family to derail his vice presidential candidacy. He cited Aquino’s statements which focuses on abuses during martial law, including the failure of Congress to pass the Bangsamoro Basic Law (BBL).

The senator said people are now more interested in current issues like unemployment and peace and order. He added that the president could not blame him for the failure of Congress to pass the BBL since it was the House that failed to transmit a copy of its approved work to the Senate.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

March 2016

Horoscope It can be very helpful to take some time out to resolve emotional issues. This is a good opportunity to find out the root of the problem. Doing so will give you more energy and joie de vivre.

You may be facing certain issues that you need to approach with patience. Tackling financial matters will do you good especially if you’re looking for funds to start a new business or project. Delays are inevitable, but try to always look on the bright side.

You’ll start the week by being practical and down to earth regarding a project. Some parts of the week could be problematic if you don’t address it properly. Don’t let anyone push you around. Let them know the strength of your position and character.

A wise investment could benefit you in small ways. It could boost your confidence and provide you with important information. Hiring a life coach could be a good idea, as one could give you a good advice on how to forge ahead.

The start of the week could be connected to business matterscareer issues, job interviews or initiating a new project plan.

Tread with care to make good impressions. Some viewpoints may differ so try to find out other people’s ideas before presenting any projects to them.

This is a great opportunity to resolve any problems concerning your family. Doing so will channel your energy into doing something creative and fun. You’ll also benefit from finding ways to save money.

This week will encourage you to showcase your skills and talents in the best way possible. Don’t let personal issues affect your confidence. You could impress someone that could hire you for your skills and this could enhance your income and career.

Work on your issues if you want to make progress. Any conflicts could be caused by a desire for a greater freedom.

Your social life can begin to sparkle again.

Your career sector may encourage you to take a stock. You may be pressured into coming up with a decision later this week so you’ll need to get the right information. By the end of the week, you’ll find your thoughts come together more easily.

Avoid conflicts wherever possible. This week could focus on family issues. It will be much easier to find a compromise and act more maturely. You may find it easier to put words into feelings and to have a heart-to-heart chat.

Emotional issues that have been bugging you could flare up.

This may encourage you to face it and be done with it right away. Continue with your spiritual reflection, you’ll feel more energized and revitalized.

You could be bestowed with greater vitality and energy. It’s a good idea to work on projects and ideas that mean the most to you. This doesn’t mean that you should forget about your responsibilities though. Manage your time well and it could be rewarding.

PAHALANG 1 Ihanap ng signal 7 Tawag sa ama 11 Haka haka 12 Yamot 13 Ininis 14 Lungsod sa Bicol 15 Palayaw ng babae 16 Hadlang 18 Bolo 20 Umikot ang paningin 21 Higpit

PABABA 23 Walk Around 24 Maiksing pagtulog 26 Libang 30 Pinangalanan 34 Binago 34 Hapit 35 Sakop 36 Hapit 37 Yakap 38 Iunday 39 Pangalan ng babae

1 Ihapay 2 Sinabihan 3 Tuklasin 4 Petrolyo 5 Silakbo 6 Laho 7 Pinatangnan 8 Akala 9 Hawak 10 Putahe 17 Regulation 19 Hinila

22 Pasasa 25 Personal Assistant 27 Itiklop 28 Sinsin 29 Pinasang responsibilidad 30 Umid 31 Alinsangan 32 Palayaw ng babae 33 Pangalan ng tsokolate

Volunteer Photographers Wanted Volunteer photographers needed. Build your portfolio or use your expertise to aid the Filipino Journal by photographing special events and concerts. Must have own equipment and transportation. Photo editing skills would be helpful but not required.

The Filipino communities are growing in Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray. More & more events being passed along our way, we are looking to complement our team with volunteer photographers to cover all those events.

As with any community newspaper, we focus on local events such as community gatherings, picnics, sporting events, press conferences, dinners. Some gigs can be as quick as 15-20 minutes and other can be long, painful & boring. Our goal is to find photographers that we can assign work to on any given story. The majority of the events are during the evenings and weekend.

As far as compensation is concerned, we’re offering several options and considerations: 1. promotional compensation with photo credits on all photography used in our print and online editions.

3. advertising compensation with supporting photography services ad in our print edition.

4. royalties on any photographs sold through our website (in development).

Interested photographers can submit their name and portfolio to info@FilipinoJournal.com

Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The satisfaction of solving a challenging Sudoku Puzzle is one of the greatest accomplishments any sudoku game player can experience.

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

8 7

1 3 9

6

1 9 5 1 4 5

4 3 8

6 2

8 7 3

1 4 2

6 1

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2015. All rights reserved.

Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray

Daily Sudoku: Thu 26-Mar-2015

very hard Solutions for Palaisipan & Sudoku will be posted online www.FilipinoJournal.com

http://www.dailysudoku.com/

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by Gem & Lita Anis

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

March 2016

I Amsterdam 3

he Netherlands (Holland to most of us) is known the world over for its open and tolerant society. The Dutch philosophy of life "Live and let live" is synonymous to its culture of permissiveness ("gedoogcultuur") earning Amsterdam, the capital and most populous city, the title as the "most liberal city in the world".

Holland is the first country in the world to legalise euthanasia the practice of intentionally ending a life to relieve pain and suffering.

Holland is also the first country to have same-sex marriage legalised since 01 April 2001. Prostitution, the oldest profession, has been legal in the Netherlands for a very long time since 1830 dating back to the days when this city was Europe's major seaport where sailors sought amusement along the canals surrounding the port.

Popping into the famous "Red Light" District, the Ouderkerksplein, is actually like moving out of your comfort zones taking you into amazing experiences just to say you've been there! The Red Light District, the oldest district in the city with its network of narrow roads and alleys where an old church, sex workers (prostitutes) in their locked glass doorways, windows typically illuminated with red lights, curtains tightly closed, and a kindergarten school co-exist, shows how bold liberalism is in the city. But beware: no photos of the red light district are allowed! Dutch authorities treat sex workers as independent entrepeneurs and are obligated to submit income tax declarations and pay taxes. There is a prostitution information centre, a charitable foundation, to inform society about prostitution. It sells books and organizes lectures on prostitution and conducts guided tour around the area.

In Amsterdam the sale of marijuana buds and hash (hard drugs not allowed) is legal in coffeeshops (cannabis shops), not to be confused with a regular coffee shop. A licensed seller of cannabis products like weed, marijuana or hash, is known as a "coffeeshop" as distinguished from a "koffiehuis" (coffee house) which sells coffee and light meals and has a green and white sticker in the window.

The Dutch is known not only for its culture of liberalism but also for its historical struggle of survival with water. Tracts of the lowland of the Netherlands

have been reclaimed (known as "polder") for agricultural, industrial, recreational, and residential purposes from the water because a large part of the country is lower than the level of the sea. We spend more than an hour drive through the beautiful lowlands north of Amsterdam, known as The "Beemsterpolder", registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its creative planning, a reclaimed land from a lake with the water extracted out by the use of windmills.

The windmills are characteristic of the Dutch landscapes Historically the

windmills fitted with diesel and electric engines play a big role in the development of the country: pumping water out of the lowlands or performing industrial functions for the production of oil, paper and sawing logs or timber.

While in Amsterdam you'll find it irresistible to stroll through a canal district or meander through the waterways on a canal boat passing elegant merchants' mansions, gabled houses, churches, and warehouses dating back to the 16 and 17th century.

It's really hard not to love Amsterdam.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Aylah Provincial Champ Aylah Angeles competed in the provincial championship in Calgary at the Tailsman recreation center on Jan. 22-24, 2016.

Aylah placed 1st in the 3M platform and 1st in the 3M Springboard. She also earned a bronze in the 1M springboard.

She competed against the best divers in her age category in Alberta.

March 2016

Siony Cuario Reyes Explores Dubai

Siony of Edmonton explored the other side of the world.

It's travelling time for most Canadians this season!

How about you where are you heading this year?

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March 2016

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

March 2016

Under these lights, you can see a city emerge from the dark ages.

In most of Edmonton, streetlights are just that. Bulbs, affixed to poles, clinging to a power-plant past. But one corner of the city is seeing things differently, thanks to technologies like hybrid lights that run off both sun and wind.

Conservation is a big part of life at The Hills at Charlesworth.

When the centrepiece of your community is a space called the Sustainability Plaza, it had better be.

Here, under the glow of those future-friendly lights, you’ll find a variety of native plant species, rain harvesting systems, and shelters made from shipping containers, where parents can exercise on energy-generating gear as their little ones play in a tot lot fashioned from recycled materials.

Even the architecture follows these modern cues. Homes have LED lights, smart appliances, low-flow fixtures and other innovations all for a sum that’s sure to spark a light bulb moment.

34 St SW

50 St SW

Anthony Henday Dr

Ivor Dent Sports Park

Ellerslie Rd SW

Starting in the

$350s

Learn more at

hillsatcharlesworth.ca

OUR BUILDERS: DOLCE VITA HOMES 780-717-9927

BEDROCK HOMES 587-521-5869

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ALQUINN HOMES 780-903-3095

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JAYMAN BUILT 780-913-4309