April2011

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Volume 4, Number 4 • April 2011

Alberta Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Filipino Leaders Face to Face with Alberta Ministers and MLAs

Incoming RP Ambassador to Canada

Page11►

Pages 4,10►

Photo from R: H.E. Ambassador Leslie B. Gatan and Mrs. Debbie Mijares Gatan.

President Benigno Aquino III has officially appointed Ambassador Leslie B. Gatan as the new incoming Philippine Ambassador to Canada.

L-R MLA Carl Benito, Minister Dave Hancock, MLA Tony Vandermeer, Minister Gene Zwozdesky, MLA Janich Sarich, MLA Peter Sandhu, Alberta Journal Publisher Jun Angeles and MLA Naresh Bhardwaj.

Photo by Noel C. Granado | Filipino Journal

Philippines Represents in Mini World Cup and Heritage Cup Tournament

Up Close with Lea Pacquiao remains huge favorite Salonga against Mosley

Page 23►

Team Philippines for the Mini World Cup Tournament

Pages 12►

Lea Salonga

Page 18►

Manny Pacquiao & Shane Mosley

Welcome to our practice!

dental

oasis

Dr. Mie H. Cifra B.Sc., D.D.S.

Welcome to Dental Oasis, providing top-notch dental care for our community in Edmonton and the sorrounding areas.

P 780 432 1801 F 780 432 1240 E info@dentaloasis.ca 125 Haddow Close Edmonton, AB T6R 3W3

see page 3 for more details

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4 Filipino Journal

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Edmonton’s Government MLAs meet with Filipino Community On, Tuesday, April 19, 2011, 10 of Edmonton’s Government MLAs met with approximately 130 members of the Filipino community at the packed Palabok House Restaurant in southwest Edmonton.

Dave Hancock, Minister of Education and MLA for Edmonton Whitemud, worked with Edmonton Millwoods MLA Carl Benito to bring together Filipino community leaders from across the city.

“In my capacity as Edmonton’s Political Minister, I’ve joined forces with my ministerial colleagues and Government MLAs in Edmonton to meet with community members from across the city,“ Hancock noted. “Community is an integral part of our lives. We believe that every citizen in Edmonton has a unique stake in what happens in our city. We understand that engaging communities in honest and genuine dialogue through these Community Conversations is vital to strengthening our city.”

Fantastic singing and dancing were showcased by local Filipino talent [insert names of performers here] but the top agenda item was a lively and spirited question and answer panel.

Community members engaged Ministers Hancock, Klimchuk, Lukaszuk and Zwozdesky with questions on wellness and the future of health care, immigration policies and the Provincial Nominee Program, educating our workforce for the 21st century, employment barriers, business and investment incentives and the importance of the arts to our quality of life.

“All of your perspectives are extremely valuable in learning where our citizens see Edmonton going in the 21st century, understanding what contributes to the success of our city, recognizing areas for growth and potential, and fostering innovative ideas to keep Edmonton moving forward,” Hancock stated.

[Carl Benito quote and notes or comments] In attendance were Gene Zwozdesky, Minister of Health and MLA for Edmonton Mill Creek; Thomas Lukaszuk, Minister of Employment and Immigration and MLA for Edmonton Castle Downs; Heather Klimchuk, Minister of Service Alberta and MLA for Edmonton Glenora; Fred Horne, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of

Health and Wellness and MLA for Edmonton Rutherford; Janice Sarich, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Education and MLA for Edmonton Decore; Naresh Bhardwaj, Chair of the Capital Region Caucus and MLA for Edmonton Ellerslie; Tony Vandermeer, Chair of the Cabinet Policy Committee on Health and MLA for Edmonton Beverly Clareview; and Peter Sandhu, MLA for Edmonton Manning.

Singers : Bernard Quilala Wency Calderon Danielle Yu Dancers : Karilagan Dance Society Quote from Carl: "First of it's kind" Carl added. " This is a historical event for our community.

Heroes in our community can bring forward ideas, concerns and advocacy that will make the City Of Edmonton and our Filipino Community better."

Mayor Mandel and MLA Carl Benito join the Ghana Friendship Association of Edmonton during the 54th year as an independent nation.

(L-R) MLA Carl Benito, Ladies from the Ghanaian Cultural dance group, Mayor Stephen Mandel and Rev. Nicholas Ameyaw president Ghana Friendship Association of Edmonton

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5

Capone’s ghost haunts tax evaders

PEREZCOPE

by Perry

Diaz

PerryDiaz@gmail.com

I

n 1931, when the United States failed to prosecute Alphonse “Scarface Al” Capone for the St. Valentine’s Day Massacre and other heinous crimes, government investigators took a different approach in bringing Capone to justice -- he was charged for tax evasion. The following year, Capone was found guilty and sentenced to 11 years in federal prison. Thus ended his reign of mayhem, murder, and corruption during the “Roaring Twenties.”

Since then, the United States had routinely used “tax evasion” to prosecute criminals whose illicit and unlawful activities were impenetrably shielded from the law. And with today’s technology, hiding ill-gotten money is like keeping it in a cookie jar.

In the Philippines, prosecution of tax evaders is prone to fail because laws were passed to protect the “privacy” of citizens… including the good, the bad, and the ugly. Simply put, government prosecutors cannot pry into a depositor’s bank accounts unless they get an authorization from the account holder. Imagine a prosecutor asking a suspected tax evader, “Excuse me, but could you please give me your authorization to look into your bank accounts so we can proceed with our investigation of your unexplained wealth?”

Military corruption The recent Senate Blue Ribbon Committee investigation into the generals’ controversial “slush funds” was put to the test when Sen. Franklin Drilon was questioning Lt. Gen. Jacinto Ligot’s brother-in-law, Edgardo Yambao. Arrogantly, Yambao challenged the authenticity of the documents presented by Drilon on the bank accounts and properties allegedly owned by Yambao. Drilon then revealed that based on reports from the Anti-Money Laundering Council (AMLC), Yambao had about P300 million in questionable accounts in Citibank, Metrobank, and the United Overseas Bank.

Yambao was flustered by Drilon’s revelation and said, “I have never waived my rights under the Bank Secrecy Law, that’s why I am

surprised by this revelation.”

When Drilon asked Yambao to explain why he had no taxable income between 1999 and 2003, Yambao insisted that he paid his taxes. It was at this point that Drilon brought the issue of tax evasion: “Mr. Yambao, you know you have undeclared deposits of P255 million. You have a potential income tax liability of P91 million. I’m telling you for these undeclared deposits, you stand liable for tax evasion and we will be asking the BIR to examine your accounts and file charges of tax evasion against you.” Drilon remarked that if Yambao insisted that he paid his taxes but there were no records of income tax returns filed, then he was lying.

As a result of the Senate investigation into the “slush funds” corruption scandal, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) filed tax evasion charges against retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia and Lt. Gen. Jacinto Ligot, their respective spouses, and Yambao.

Tax evasion In another front of the “war on corruption,” the BIR filed a P74-million tax evasion case against Rep. Juan Miguel “Mikey” Arroyo and his wife, Angela, for attempting to avoid paying taxes and failing to file income tax returns. Mikey is the son of ex-president and now Pampanga Rep. Gloria Macapagal Arroyo.

Faced with twelve counts of violation of the National Internal Revenue Code, the Arroyo couple could be incarcerated for a minimum of 18 years up to a maximum of 84 years.

In defiance, Mikey claimed that the tax evasion charges were a “political gimmick” intended to boost President Benigno Aquino III’s plummeting ratings. He said that he could defend himself from those charges; however, he refused to show documents to back his assertion that he indeed filed income tax returns on those years in question.

As reported in the news, “The case stemmed from tax deficiencies that BIR discerned after a review of the Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) from 2004 to 2009 of Rep. Arroyo, as well as the income tax returns that he had filed for certain years during the same period. The SALN is a document that a public official is required to file, notarize, and certify to be the true and correct picture of his wealth.”

And just like in the case of mobster Al Capone, the Philippine government’s case against the Garcias, Ligots, Arroyos, and

Yambao shouldn’t be hard to prosecute. The burden of proof would be upon the defendants; that is, proving that they filed their tax returns.

Anti-money laundering Aquino’s shift in strategy to go after corrupt officials for tax evasion instead of prosecuting them for graft and corruption could be the linchpin in the crusade against corruption, drug trafficking, illegal gambling, human trafficking, and other money-generating crimes. With today’s global fight against money laundering, hiding illicit money generated from these crimes is going to be very challenging – and frustrating -- for criminal elements.

Last March 2011, the AMLC asked the Senate to make the necessary and “long overdue” amendments to the Anti-Money Laundering Act (AMLA), which would expand the definition of “money laundering” to “include not only the transaction of criminal proceeds but also the possession, use, transfer, acquisition, concealment, conversion and disguise of the proceeds.” Indeed, this would give AMLA more latitude in going after “dummies” of corrupt officials who have been pretty successful in camouflaging their ill-gotten wealth by transferring them to relatives and friends like in the case of the Garcias and Ligots.

According to ALMC executive director Atty. Vicente Aquino, “ALMA is ‘incomplete’ or suffers from some ‘deficiencies’ because under it, persons

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Retired Maj. Gen. Carlos Garcia and Lt. Gen. Jacinto Ligot

concealing, transporting or disguising without transacting criminal proceeds may not be held liable for money laundering.”

This is the big loophole that corrupt officials use to escape prosecution from charges of corruption or plunder.

“The taxman cometh” It’s because of this loophole that the Garcias and Ligots thumbed their noses jeeringly at the senators, thinking that they were untouchable by the law.

Wrong! Little did they know that while they might be able to get away with corruption, they couldn’t escape the scrutiny of the taxman.

The specter of going to prison for tax evasion gives the Garcias, Ligots, Arroyos, and Yambao goose bumps. And to the corrupt officials who have until now evaded the scrutiny of the taxman, the ghost of Al Capone haunts them endlessly… until they, too, will fall under the axe of the taxman.

6 Filipino Journal

Alberta

April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Family and Spousal Sponsorships - Frequently Asked Questions a. Your spouse or common-law partner Three (3) years after the day he or she becomes a permanent resident

Immigration News

by Jon

Salvador, BSc.

Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant

(About the writer: Jon Salvador is a licensed immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultant (CSIC). 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 “Alberta Filipino Journal” publications, you can contact Jon at (403) 241-6276 or at jon@nuerainc.ca or the publisher of this newspaper.

Recently, I have been asked many questions about sponsoring spouses and family members. Listed below are the frequently asked questions (FAQs) and the answers. If you have any questions that are not covered in this issue, please feel free to send me an email at jon@nuerainc.ca Q1. What responsibilities am I taking when I sponsor a spouse or family member?

A. When you agree to sponsor a spouse or a family member, you must sign an undertaking. The undertaking is a promise to provide financial support for your spouse or family member’s basic living requirements and those of his or her dependent children.

Basic living requirements are food, clothing, shelter and other needs for everyday living. Dental care, eye care and other health needs not covered by public health services are also included. The undertaking ensures the applicant and his or her dependent children do not have to apply for social assistance.

The length of the financial undertaking depends on the sponsor’s relationship and age of the person(s) who is/are being sponsored. The table below shows how long the financial undertaking will be valid and enforced:

b. Dependent children over 22 years of age

Three (3) years after the day he or she becomes a permanent resident

c. Dependent children under 22 years of age

10 years after the day he or she becomes a permanent resident, or until the child reaches 25 years of age, whichever comes first

NOTE: If payments from a federal, provincial or municipal assistance program are made while your financial undertaking is still valid, you (the sponsor) will be considered in default of your undertaking. You may have to repay the government for any benefits received by the person you sponsored and until the monies are paid, you will not be allowed to sponsor any other relative.

Q2. What are the eligibility requirements to be able to sponsor a spouse or family members?

A. To be eligible to sponsor a spouse or family members, the person must: ‪ be 18 years of age or older ‪ be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident ‪ be sponsoring a spouse or commonlaw partner or family member ‪ live in Canada and continue to live in Canada after the sponsored person obtains PR status ‪ sign an agreement, along with your spouse or common-law partner, confirming that each of you understand each other’s obligations and responsibilities. ‪ sign an undertaking promising to provide for your spouse or commonlaw partner’s basic requirements and, if applicable, those of his or her dependent children ‪ prove that you have sufficient income to provide basic requirements for your spouse or common-law partner’s dependent child. To do this, you must provide documents that show your financial resources for the past 12 months.: This requirement applies only when dependent children who have dependent children of their own are included on the application.

You may NOT be eligible to sponsor, if: ‪ you have an undertaking for a previous spouse or common-law partner and three years have not yet elapsed since he or she became a PR. ‪ you receive social assistance for a reason other than disability ‪ you are in default of an undertaking, immigration loan, performance bond, family or child support payments ‪ you are an undischarged bankrupt ‪ You were convicted of a sexual assault or an offence involving family violence, unless you were granted a pardon or five years have passed since the completion of your sentence ‪ You are under a removal order ‪ You are detained in a penitentiary, jail

Ronald Cantiveros

Publisher/Chief Operating Officer VP-Business Development Managing Editor

Rod Escobar Cantiveros Sales & Advertising

Jose (Jun) Angeles, Jr.

Associate Publisher - Alberta 246 Lindsay St. Edmonton, AB T64 2T2 email: angeles.associates@gmail.com

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reformatory or prison ‪ You have already applied to sponsor your current spouse or commonlaw partner and a decision on your application has not yet been made.

Q3: I recently became a Permanent Resident (PR) of Canada. Who can I sponsor to immigrate to Canada?

A: If you are a PR or a Canadian citizen you can sponsor the following people: ‪ your spouse or common-law partner ‪ your dependent child or your spouse or common-law partner’s dependent child ‪ a dependent child of a dependent child ‪ your parents and grandparents ‪ brother, sister, nephew, niece, grandson, granddaughter under 18 yrs old and not a spouse or a common-law partner A spouse is a person you are legally married to and have a valid married certificate. By definition, a common-law partner is a person (same sex or opposite sex) you have lived with continuously as “husband and wife” for at least one (1) year. Short absences are allowed for business travel or travel for family reasons.

A child is considered a “dependent child” when the person: ‪ is under the age of 22 and does not have a spouse or common-law partner; ‪ is over the age of 22 and has been continuously enrolled as a full-time student and depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since before the age of 22; ‪ became a spouse or a common-law partner before the age of 22 and has been continuously enrolled as a fulltime student and depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since becoming a spouse or common-law partner, or ‪ is over the age of 22 and depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since before the age of 22 because of a physical or mental condition.

Q4: Are there relationships that are not eligible under spousal sponsorship?

A: Yes, you cannot be sponsored as a spouse, a common-law partner or a conjugal partner if: ‪ you are under 16 years of age ‪ you (or your sponsor) were married to someone else at the time of your marriage ‪ you have lived apart from your sponsor for at least one year and either

you (or your sponsor) are the commonlaw or conjugal partner of another person ‪ your sponsor immigrated to Canada and, at the time he/she applied for permanent residence, you were a family member who should have been examined to see if you met immigration requirements, but you were not examined or ‪ your sponsor previously sponsored another spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner, and three years have not passed since that person became a permanent resident.

Q5: I am legally married in the Philippines but have been separated for several years with my spouse. There is no divorce in the Phils. I have been living “common law” with another person in Canada for more than one year. Can I sponsor my common-law partner even though I am not legally “divorced” in the Phils.?

A: Yes, you can sponsor your commonlaw partner in Canada – as a commonlaw partner. However, you cannot marry him/her until you first legally divorce your previous spouse. If you have been legally living in Alberta for at least one year... you can divorce your previous spouse in the Philippines by filing the necessary legal documents in Alberta.

Your spouse in the Philippines has to be properly notified that you are filing for a divorce in Canada.

In Canada, a couple is considered in a common law relationship, if they have been continuously living together as husband and wife (conjugal relationship) for at least one year. This applies also to same sex couples who have been living together as “husband and wife” for at least one year. A conjugal relationship exists when there is a significant degree of commitment between two people – that they support each other emotionally, financially, etc., that they present themselves in public as a couple. Proof of commitment and living together would include but not limited to: living in same address, joint names in apartment lease agreements, joint names in telephone or utility bills, joint bank accounts, etc.

Q6: I just found out that my recently sponsored spouse is cheating on me.

Can I cancel my spousal sponsorship after it is approved?

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.

Corrected FSW Points Grid for the March 2011 Issue:

Current vs. Proposed Federal Skilled Worker Points Grid: Selection Criteria

Current System

Education Language Work Experience Age Arranged Employment Adaptability TOTAL:

www.FilipinoBrideAndGroom.com Published Annually

aLfie vera mella

A: No, you cannot cancel your spousal sponsorship after it is approved. If you change your mind about sponsoring a spouse or family member, you must write a letter to the appropriate Case Processing Centre before a Permanent Resident visa is issued. Once permanent resident visas are issued, the promise that you made to support your spouse or family member is valid for the term of your application.

The application is an unconditional promise of support. You have signed a contract when you submitted the spousal sponsorship application. Problems like infidelity, relationship breakdown or moving to another province does not cancel the application. The application also remains in effect even if your financial situation changes and you can no longer afford to provide financial support. If the situation involves misrepresentation, fraud, or any significant anomalies on the part of the sponsored spouse, etc. you should consult with a Canadian lawyer.

Q7: How do I check, if the consultant whom I am dealing with and paying a fee is a licensed immigration consultant?

A: Licensed immigration consultants are listed in the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC) website members’ directory: https://www.csic-scci.ca/find/ If the person is not listed in the CSIC website member’s directory, then chances are the person is NOT a licensed immigration consultant. They may have been suspended or disbarred from the profession. Be careful, if your consultant does not have a valid license with CSIC. CSIC is an independent, federally incorporated not-for-profit body which operates at arm’s length from the federal government. It is responsible for regulating the activities of Canadian immigration consultants who are members and who provide immigration advice for a fee.

Proposed System

25 25 24 28 21 15 10 12 10 10 10 10 100 100

Published Quarterly

Associate Editor

Webco Leduc

A Division of Bowes Publishers Ltd. Leduc, AB Printer

Official Photographer Noli Granado

Contributing Writers: Reis Pagtakhan Johnny Cantiveros Carl Benito Gem M. Anis Danilo Donor Lito Cleofe

Ramon Toralba Melanie Angeles Tony Surtida Perry Diaz Jon Salvador

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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April 2011

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Alberta

Jojo Lucila: Recipient of the City of Edmonton’s 2010 Cultural Diversity in the Arts Awards Constantino “Jojo” Lucila is one of seven recipients of the City of Edmonton’s 2010 Cultural Diversity in the Arts Awards.

The announcement and awarding was held last April 5, 2011 at the City Hall.

The Cultural Diversity in the Arts Program was established in 2008 by the City of Edmonton through the Edmonton Arts Council, in recognition that diversity is a source of strength and vitality in the arts.

This program provides annual awards to encourage and support Edmonton artists from ethnically diverse cultural backgrounds, and to engage those artists in the broader Edmonton community.

Jojo Lucila’s dance background is in classical ballet, modern ballet, Philippine folk and ethnic dance, and jazz. He was a dancer with Ballet Philippines and later transitioned as one of the Philippine’s established choreographers, having worked with major and international dance companies and has had the distinction of choreographing and directing the Presidential Philippine Independence Day Parade for 3 Philippine presidents,

spanning a 9-year period, prior to their migration to Canada.

In Canada, he has worked with various Filipino organizations, dance schools, the Citie Ballet, the Ukrainian Shumka Dancers and founding Artistic Director of the Chameleon Dance which was invited to perform in Aberdeen, Scotland in 2010. He was also the Artistic Director of the 2010 Philippine Arts Festival held in Edmonton.

Mercan has successfully brought over 25,000 individuals to Canada since 1989 and assisted them in obtaining permanent residency. Mercan Capital’s founder and President, Mr. Jerome Morgan, is an accredited member of the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC member no.: M041555) and Ms. Valerie Marcas, employee of Mercan Capital since 1999, is a member of the Quebec Bar, Canadian Bar Association, and the Quebec Immigration Lawyers Association.

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Filipino Journal SOCIAL MEDIA SERVICES

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We can help you reach out to, collaborate with, and market effectively to targeted audiences in their on-line haunts.

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10 Filipino Journal

Alberta

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

April 2011

Filipino Leaders Face to Face with Alberta Ministers and MLAs

by Jun Angeles

A

Make My Day! Your Car is Japanese Your car is Japanese. Your pizza is Italian. Your beer is German. Your wine is Spanish. Your democracy is Greek. Your coffee is Brazilian.

Your tea is Chinese. Your watch is Swiss. Your fashion is French.

Your shirt is Indian. Your shoes are Thai. Your radio is Korean.

Your vodka is Russian.

And then you complain that your neighbour is...... an immigrant?

Only in North America!

n array of Provincial Ministers and MLA’s converged at Palabok House to dialogue with Filipino community leaders the evening of Tuesday April 19, 2011. MLA of Millwoods Carl Benito arranged the face to face encounter with the ministers to tackle issues that confront the needs and concerns of the Filipino community.`The forum was attended by the Minister of Education and Government House Leader Hon. Dave Hancock, Minister of Health & Wellness and Deputy Gov’t House Leader Hon. Gene Zwozdesky, Minister of Service Alberta Hon. Heather Klimchuk, and Minister of Employment & Immigration Hon. Thomas Lukaszuk. Also present were MLA Fred Horne, Assistant Minister of Health & Wellness, MLA Janice Sarich, Assistant Minister of Education, MLA Tony Vandermeer, Cabinet Policy

L-R Estrella Benito, Lulu Bernal, MLA Carl Benito, MLA Minister Dave Hancock, MLA Tony Vandermeer, MLA Minister Gene Zwozdesky, MLA Janice Sarich, MLA Peter Sandhu, Publisher AFJ Jun Angeles, Terrie Geddes Photo by Noel C. Granado | Filipino Journal

Committee on Health, MLA Peter Sandhu, and MLA Carl Benito, the first Filipino born MLA elected in Alberta and instrumental in the converging of the ministers.

The program started with singing of National Anthems of Canada and Philippines followed by the invocation of Deacon Tony Obleada. Bernard Quilala Canadian Idol finalist, Wency Calderon, Pinoy Singing

Sensation Youth Category winner and the Karilagan Dance Society provided the entertainment to the audience. The forum started with a dialogue with a question and answer directed to the ministers.Most of the questions were directed to Minister of Employment & Immigration Thomas Lukaszuk particularly with the new immigration bill that will cap issuance of permanent

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residency to 5,000 per year in Alberta in the foreign worker category. Athena Bernal and Wilf Ladores, advisor of Council of Edmonton Filipino Associations (CEFA) question also the four year allowance for temporary workers to work and after the term has to go back to original country and wait for another four years to reapply. Ladores indicated that temporary workers are getting a better deal in Manitoba which also has a cap of 5000 and with less number of temporary workers.

Minister Lukaszuk responded that it is the responsibility of federal immigration and hence a federal responsibility but promised to look into the matter. Minister of Health & Wellness Gene Zwozdesky was asked about the health care system in Alberta and he praised that "we have an excellent health care system".

People in Alberta has a high mortality rate of 78 to 79 for men and that certainly reflected on our excellent health care system.

The discussions lasted a bit longer than expected and was finalized with Julie Kallal, Vice President of CEFA praising the ministers and MLA present by singing "Stand By Your Guys" in tune with "Stand by Your Man".

She ended the song with " Let's give our votes when they need them, Stand tall for them, Stand Proud with them, Let's show the world we love them, Keep thinking PC Alberta, Stand by our guys."

Looks like a provincial election is looming and it's just around the corner.

April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Filipino Journal

Alberta

11

Former DOST employee now RP ambassador LESLIE B. GATAN became chief of mission, an ambassadorial rank following his confirmation by the Commission on Appointments last October 4, 2006, which also made him the first to come from the DOSTcommunity to reach such position in the Philippine foreign service.

He is currently the Ambassador and Deputy Permanent Representative of the Philippine Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York.

He started his public service career at the National Science Development Board, forerunner of the Department of Science

and Technology, as management analyst in June 1974. Gatan rose to become supervising management and audit analyst II eight years later when NSDB was restructured into the National Science and Technology Authority.

Gatan participated in a number of management studies that left enduring impact in DOST’s human resource development program.

One of these contributions was the review he made on the scale of honoraria for scientists, pay scale for the science community, reorganization studies leading to

the present DOST structure, and strengthening of communication program through scientific journals.

He was tasked to run in concurrent capacity the BalikScientist Program from 1975 until his transfer to the Department of Foreign Affairs in February 1983.

Other than his busy assignment, Gatan founded Buklod ng Kabataang Kawani in NSTA and its agencies, and pioneered the annual MiniOlympic competitions in the NSTA system.

He obtained a Master in Urban and Regional Planning

from the University of the Philippines through the NSTA staff scholarship program.

In 1982, he passed the Foreign Service Officers’ Examinations and transferred to the Department of Foreign Affairs the following year.

In DFA, Gatan initiated the creation of the Division for Science and Technology, Environment and Human Settlements in the Office of United Nations and International Organizations to where he was initially assigned.

Whenever Gatan comes home for a vacation, he includes a visit to old friends in DOST.

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The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Far from Quiet

by Joan Duhaylungsod

Up Close with Lea Salonga

F

or a moment, the gloomy noon of March 17 was eclipsed when two bright artists, both Filipino talents who have gone international, met up in Winnipeg. In the faces of the Tony Award Winner Lea Salonga, the YouTube sensation Maria Aragon, her family, that brush between Lea and Maria at Inn at the Forks was truly priceless.

International artist Lea Salonga, who came to Winnipeg for her concert, surprised ten-year old Maria Aragon, who has now become popular after singing Lady Gaga’s Born This Way on YouTube. Though starstruck, Maria still offered a song “Part of Your World” to Lea, which made her like the young Winnipeger even more.

Meanwhile, the Filipino Journal interviewed Lea Salonga, who entered the music and entertainment industry at such a young age, and made it to the top and international. She shared her thoughts and experiences as a performer, as an artist, as a Filipino, and as an inspiration to the budding artists like Maria Aragon.

Filipino Journal: This is not your first time to do a concert in Winnipeg. How do you like it here? How do you find the crowd’s response whenever you perform in the city?

Lea Salonga: Both times I have

been here, it’s been cold. As to the concert, I always do two nights here in Winnipeg. The first night is the players’ invitational. This is exclusive only for those who patronize the Casino. The first night is a little more conservative, not bad, but just more reserved. The second night is made for public. The second night is a little more enthusiastic; things can go crazy.

FJ: Does it really matter much for an artist to know what the crowd is like before they jump into the stage to perform?

LS: It is always a surprise because I never know what a crowd is going to be like. I am not always responsible for how the crowd will respond.

It is one of the things you can’t really determine until you get there.

Usually after the first ten seconds on stage, I already have a feeling how my concert is going to be like. After the first song, I already know what’s going to happen.

FJ: You started in the music industry at a very young age and there was no stopping since. Now, here’s Maria Aragon making a name at a young age too. What can you say about her, and the other budding Filipino artists who want to excel in the industry?

LS: I am actually really, really mean.

I am really, really harsh because I am

finding myself increasingly frustrated that there are some people who fancy themselves as singers but they can’t really sing. You know, I love Bruno Mars. I love Darren Criss. They are both Filipino talents, and they are not apologetic about their roots. There is a whole thing about the Filipino pride. Well, I don’t think if it’s necessarily a Filipino pride, or just the thrill that we all come from the same place.

FJ: Some people have used the words ethnocentricity and racism to describe how we react in every Filipino’s triumph. We’re so proud when Manny Pacquaio wins or when Maria became popular.

LS: It is interesting because I also read a lot of stuff in the internetboth those for Philippine pride and those who question it. There are those who ask: “Why am I as a stranger proud of the other person who is also a stranger when I make no investment whatsoever in that person’s success?”.

Well, Filipino pride is what we may call it, but there might be something else too. We come from the same island. I am able to relate to you. You are accessible to me because of where we are both from.

Nakakataba ng puso.

FJ: You think this is part of our culture too? Our sense of connectedness?

LS: That’s it! You are connected, in some way, to that person who gained individual success. If this person was able to succeed, then I should be able to do something with my life.

FJ: Talk about Filipino pride, I know you are one of the Filipino personalities who continue to believe in the Filipino talent and represent the country internationally.

LS: I am proud of our music and our artists. There are some individuals who are on the flipped side though. But if that kind of music is high-quality, that’s the stuff that I encourage the people to buy and make. Then we can really say, “this is ours”.

When I do sing Filipino songs in my concert and I usually sing two, I have to be picky because I am aware that there are non-Filipinos in the audience, and Filipinos who do not know about our language. If I have to sing music from home, I’ve got to bring the quality stuff. Songs have to be good. And I’d like to think that I am influential enough that this is what good Filipino music is supposed to sound like.

FJ: Talk about Filipino talent, I know back at home there are so many reality TV shows which scout talents from the general population. Do you think these shows really sustain in promoting Filipino talents?

LS: It’s a yes and no. If the talent that would apply to the show is

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April 2011

a mediocre, then chances are, a mediocre will arise. It’s the excellent talents I am hoping to apply to the shows and rise to the top, and become famous.

FJ: Do these shows give hope to those whose talents have gone unnoticed?

LS: It gives people an opportunity.

If nothing else, it gives someone who otherwise would not be able an see page 14 ►

April 2011

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Filipino Journal

Alberta

13

14 Filipino Journal

by

Carl Benito, MLA Edmonton Mill Woods

As the MLA for Edmonton MillWoods, I am always available to assist constituents. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the National Buyer Seller Forum, the Renewable Fuels Standard, the Ethane Extraction Program, or any other matter, I can be reached in my constituency office at #218;4128A97 Street, or in my Legislature office at 780-422-9299. Also, please subscribe to my e‑newsletter at http://(Benito).mypcmla.ca/. Follow us on Facebook,Carl Benito, twitter@MLACarlBenito and You Tube: http://www.youtube.com/ benitomla

National Buyer Seller Forum showcases oil sands business prospects for firms across Canada

About 500 manufacturers, suppliers and other delegates from across Canada and beyond are gathering in Edmonton March

Alberta

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

29-31 to learn how they can take advantage of opportunities in the oil sands.

The National Buyer Seller Forum is held each year to bring manufacturers and suppliers together to discuss growing technology and supply opportunities in the oil sands.

Discussions this year include opportunities associated with emerging environmental projects - including carbon capture and sequestration, reclamation, water management and tailings ponds - as well as how delegates can be part of high-value contracts for maintenance, repair and operations in the oil sands industry.

Premier Ed Stelmach is the featured speaker at the 11th annual event and will highlight the significant economic benefits of the oil sands for businesses in Alberta and across Canada.

The Canadian Energy Research Institute estimates oil sands development will contribute more than $1.7 trillion to the Canadian economy over the next 25 years. Every dollar invested in the oil sands creates about $8 worth of economic activity, onethird of which occurs outside Alberta’s borders.

More information on the forum is available at: www. nationalbuyersellerforum.ca.

The Alberta government is working to build a better Alberta by fostering economic growth, strengthening our health and education systems, investing in infrastructure, supporting safe and strong communities and ensuring a clean and healthy environment.

The National Buyer Seller Forum will help to achieve these goals by continuing to promote Alberta’s oil sands on both a national and global scale.

Renewable Fuels Standard brings value-added opportunities to Alberta's bioenergy sector

Alberta continues to build its reputation as a major player in the bioenergy sector with the implementation of a Renewable Fuels Standard, effective April 1, 2011.

The new standard requires an annual average of two per cent renewable diesel in diesel fuel and five per cent renewable alcohol in gasoline sold in Alberta. The greenhouse gas emissions of renewable diesel or alcohol must be at least 25 per cent lower than the equivalent petroleum fuel. Alberta was the first North American jurisdiction to commit to a greenhouse gas emission threshold for renewable fuel supporting a Renewable Fuels Standard.

To ensure the success of the Renewable Fuels Standard, the Alberta government will expand and extend the Bioenergy Producer Credit Program until 2016. Budget 2011 allocates $336 million to the program over the next three years, including $58 million in 2011-12, to support bioenergy production in the province.

The Alberta government is also releasing the Biodiesel Integration Strategy Pilot study conducted by Kyoto Fuels Corporation and JK Trucking, demonstrating the successful

use of biodiesel blends in the Canadian climate. The study was supported with a grant from the Alberta Government.

For more information on the Renewable Fuels Standard and the Biodiesel Integration Strategy Pilot study, visit www.energy. alberta.ca.

Alberta to expand ethane incentive

A program to increase extraction of ethane to support continued growth of Alberta’s petrochemical sector is being expanded.

Initially designed to encourage extraction of ethane from natural gas, the revisions will help encourage more ethane extraction from off-gases that result from bitumen refining or upgrading. Capturing these offgases, which are the result of converting bitumen to synthetic crude oil, will reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Using off-gases for valueadded production can reduce emissions from the oil sands by up to one million tonnes annually. The program requires petrochemical companies to submit an application to Alberta Energy for credits that can be applied to specific projects, including details and a supporting business case. The ethane that is

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April 2011

produced must be used for valueadded upgrading in Alberta (e.g. consumed by petrochemical companies). Ethane that is exported or used in enhanced oil recovery is not eligible for credits.

Capture of significant volumes of off-gases can provide a broader range of feedstocks to diversify the types of petrochemicals manufactured in Alberta. Ethane is a feedstock used to make ethylene which is then used to manufacture petrochemical derivatives such as ethylene glycol, styrene and linear low-density polyethylene.

Examples of products include film, moulding, wire and cable, flooring, plastics, detergents, synthetic lubricants, and cable.

The five-year Incremental Ethane Extraction Program was approved by government and released publicly on Sept. 29, 2006. The program is being extended for an additional five years with no new funding.

Approximately $310 million of the original $350 million remains in the program. The program is a royalty credit program whereby fractionation credits are provided to petrochemical companies consuming incremental ethane for value-added upgrading in Alberta (such as ethylene and derivatives).

For more information on the Incremental Ethane Extraction Program, visit www.energy. alberta.ca.

Filipino Journal

April 2011

Fil-Am takes title roles in new fairy tales films Young actress Hailee Steinfeld was recently signed on to do the lead roles in two fairy tales films namely “Sleeping Beauty” and “Romeo and Juliet.”.

The 14-year old FilipinoAmerican who was nominated Best Supporting Actress in the 2011 Oscars, will play a new version of the fairy tale told from Sleeping Beauty’s dream world point of view. Producers have yet to announce who will play Romeo opposite Steinfeld.

For “Romeo and Juliet,” Italian Carlo Carlie of the 1993 crime drama “Flight of the Innocent” directs. Some showbiz watchers said Steinfeld resembles Olivia Hussey who played Juliet in 1968. Steinfeld’s age at 14 also matched Juliet’s age in the classic play. The shooting will start soon in Italy.

Steinfeld’s maternal grandfather is Filipino. The young Hollywood upstart gained the critics nods after her first role as Mattie Ross in “True Grit.”

Regine, Ogie expect first baby

After weeks of keeping silent, showbiz couple Regine Velasquez and Ogie Alcasid revealed on GMA 7 musical variety show “Party Pilipinas” that they are expecting their first baby.

The 40-year-old diva said she is now 7 weeks pregnant and is not craving for any particular food.

She admitted though that she likes to see the faces of actors Dingdong Dantes and Richard Gutierrez and even asked for their pictures.

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2011 Bb. Pilipinas-Universe is beauty and brains combined

The newly-crowned Bb. PilipinasUniverse who will represent the country in the 2011 Miss Universe pageant in Sao Paolo, Brazil in September is obviously beauty and brains combined.

Born on May 16, 1986, Shamcey Supsup is an only child of Marcelina, an engineer and Timoteo, a farmer. She graduated salutatorian of her high school class at the Mindanao State University (MSU). She finished Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture

The singer-actress will be turning 41 on April 22. She said her wish is for her baby to be healthy regardless of gender.

If it is a boy, she said she will name it after her husband, who is Herminio Jhay Alcasid Jr. in real life. She has not yet made up her mind though for the name of their baby if it will be a girl.

Alcasid has 2 daughters from his first marriage to former Australian beauty queen Michelle van Eimeren.

Kusina ni Lola

"Pinoy Alberta TV on OMNI", a weekly Filipino television show, has added a new Pinoy Segment titled - "KUSINA NI LOLA". This segment features Pinoy homecooking in a simple and easy style for Pinoy households residing in Canada. The segment is hosted by it's Executive Producer, Cecille Tijam Magpayo; with Jose "Lucky" Magpayo as segment producer and Angelo "Biboy" Magpayo as technical coordinator. Pinoy Alberta TV is aired in Edmonton and Calgary over OMNI Diversity TV cable 4.

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at the University of the Philippines (UP) in Diliman, Quezon City and topped the licensure board exams for architect in June 2010.

Aside from the Bb. PilipinasUniverse crown, the General Santos beauty also won special awards such as Best in Talent, Miss Philippine Air Lines and Miss Cream Silk. She bested 39 other candidates in the 46th edition of the beauty contest.

This early, Supsup said she’s feeling the pressure as others tend to compare her to 2010 Bb.

Pilipinas-Universe Maria Venus Raj, who won fourth runner up in the 2010 Miss Universe pageant held in Las Vegas, Nevada USA. After her reign, she said she and her friends plan to form their own architectural firm. She said she does not see herself entering politics or showbiz in the future.

She added that people should focus on discipline and should not rely on government for solutions to end social problems.

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April 2011

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The Tragedy of the Revolution: The Death of Andres Bonifacio

by Danilo V.

Donor ( M.A Ed. )

donordanilo@yahoo.com

"Every revolution devours its children" ,thus a saying goes.It is ironic that in the annals of the Philippine Revolution of 1897 ,it devoured its father-Andres Bonifacio. Orphaned in his early age,when he was studying at a private secondary school in Manila,inspired by reading the history of the French Revolution , he and a handful of associates founded the Katipunan in 1892 that ignited the the first nationalist revolution against a western colonial power in Asia.

In the early days of the revolution(August 21-31),he charted its course:issued orders and proclamations and planned a general strategy to capture the Walled City of Manila(Intramuros). He failed the reasons:the towns around Manila revolted but the native soldiers inside the Philippine Bastile(Fort Santiago) was sent to Mindanao, a force that Bonifacio relied on to stage a mutiny against their Spanish masters.His planned failed.The Katipunan councils in Cavite did not participate in the simoultaneous uprising.

They exemplified the "sigurista "attitude of the Filipino.Their excuses: "the lights of the Luneta was not put off"(according to Aguinaldo) and the "sound of the cannon was not heard"(according to Ricarte).A katipunan Gen.

Fernandez did not attack from the South of Manila.The poorly armed Katipunan under Bonifacio was pounded by superior Spanish troops.

Cavite rebelled on the morning (Magdiwang Council) and the afternoon(Magdalo Council of 31 August not on the midnight of August 31 as stated by the Supremo Bonifacio's order.

Hence,Bonifacio lost his battles in contrast with the triumph of Cavite Katipunan.The reason for their victories :most of the Spanish troops in Cavite were mobilized against the Bonifacio.

Intoxicated with military success, they branded the people who sought refuge as "alsa balutan" and among the "alsa balutan" was Andres Bonifacio,the supreme leader of the revolution.His presence in Cavite was due to the invitation of the Magdiwang Council headed by Gen.Mariano Alvarez,uncle of Bonifacio's wife. Unknown to his was the real motive of the Magdiwang leadership,to make Bonifacio a "weapon" in their leadership struggle against the Magdalo Council of the Aguinaldos.

As the Supremo,Bonifacio have to act as mediator to the rival councils.

Meetings were held but nothing was accomplished.It was in march 1897 at the First Tejeros Convention that the price of unity was paid:the abolition of the Katipunan;the ilustrado( educated) and the principalia (native town elites)of Cavite elected as leaders of the new Revolutionary Government.As a "consolation prize" Bonifacio was elected as Secretary of Interior,the lowest Cabinet office. His qualification was questioned and a name of a lawyer was brought up.Insulted Bonifacio declared the election null and void and

walk out with some followers.

Bonifacio and his followers formed a separate army under the command of Gen.Pio del Pilar and he counted for the support of the Batangas Council under Gen.Miguel Malvar. Emilio Aguinaldo,the elected president felt that he was between two colliding rocks:attacking Spanish troops that seized the Cavite towns and the possible coalition forces of Bonifacio and Malvar.

Malvar was to be neutralized .Aguinaldo warned Malvar not to join Bonifacio and to abide by the decisions made in the Tejeros convention.

Aguinlado believed that Bonifacio's actions were treasonous and a threat to the unity in the revoluttion.He ordered Maj.Lazaro Macapagal and Col Agapito Bonzon to arrest the Bonifacio brothers.After the gunfight with the goverment troops;Bonifacio suffered from a wound in the neck and in his left arm;his brother Procopio hit by rifle butts and Ciriaco was killed.

After a short mock trial,Bonifacio and Ciriaco was executed by a squad of soldiers led by Maj.Macapagal in the the mountains of Maragondon .Cavite on May 10,1897.

Many katipuneros were discouraged due to Bonifacio's execution and left the fields of battle.Aguinaldo have to make a long march to Biak Na Bato.

There he will capitulate with the enemy,order the revolutionists to surrender their arms and with Pesos 200,000.00, he and his selected entourage went to Hong Kong as an exile. Before leaving he branded those who will continue the revolution as "tulisanes"( bandits).

Thus when Bonifacio died,the Revolt of the Masses died with him and the next chapter opens:The Revolution of the Ilustrados of 1898.

April 2011

continued from page 10

Up Close with Lea Salonga opportunity, a chance. It is something to hold on to and strive for. With my experience in Saigon, I thank the audition held in the Philippines. See, you have to audition to get in.

FJ: A while ago, you saw Maria Aragon and her family very supportive of her. I understand that your family has been supportive too especially in your formative years.What can you say about Maria’s family acting as her primary support system in her love for music?

LS: It is good. It is important.

Both my brother and I are making music- that fact is a testimony to my family’s support to us, which is not always present in a lot of artists’ families. There are some people who, after they became famous, were confronted by their families, “so, when will you stop this and become a doctor?” or “when will this end?”.

The thing is, families have to realize that not all their kids want to become a lawyer, a doctor, a plumber, or a fireman. Some take the artistic path which sometimes could be lonely, difficult and trying.

So, the kind of support Maria Aragon has needs to be there. She needs everyone to be behind her and to always be honest to her. That support also has to come by not always saying “yes” to everything, keeping her humble, making sure she does her chores, goes to school, and practices her songs, and making sure that she maintains her passion.

The impetus to dream to become someone should also come from the kid. It cannot come from the parents, or else it’s going to lead to a whole slew of problems.

FJ: Do you entertain the possibility that you two will sing together in one show?

LS: I would like to. That girl can sing! She sang acapella for us. I love how deep her voice is. She’s really good!

FJ: How do you see Maria Aragon, 10-20 years from now?

LS: When she gets 18- 20, and she’s gone through the change (puberty), and has come out of the tunnel, I would be interested what her voice is going to sound like. It’s going to be fun.

Maria seems to be very together kid for someone that young. She is very poised. She looked starstruck, and that was really cute.

FJ: Were you starstruck?

LS: A little bit, given this little kid, in a very short time, has been able to do, and on the endorsement of one artist, given that she’s one of the biggest pop artists in the world right now...

At first, when I saw Maria in YouTube, I asked “So, who’s this?”, and I wondered how auto-tuned her voice is. Then she sits, and starts to play the piano. Then she sings. You cannot autotune what comes out of the microphone. There I said, “Now, I like her”.

FJ: What is your advice to Maria and her passion in music?

LS: Follow it. Throw yourself into it.

Lea, as a performer, continues to travel the world. Aside from that, Lea is a columnist of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. A mom and housewife, Lea said that whenever she’s at home, she does all the chores ordinary wives and mothers do. :-)

Alberta to review health screening for medical staff Alberta patients contacted over possible HIV infection. Alberta Health Minister Gene Zwozdesky has asked for an informal internal review into health screening procedures for front-line medical staff.

Alberta Health Services is in the process of contacting 226 patients so they can be tested for HIV and Hepatitis C after a former Edmonton healthcare worker tested positive for the conditions. The worker was involved with neurosurgery procedures from 2006 to 2009.

Zwozdesky says some standards are now in place but he wants to make sure the system is transparent. He also

wants to find out if mandatory testing should be put in place.

"I've just asked for our folks in Health and Wellness to work with folks over in Alberta Health Services to see what kind of pre-screening measures may or may not be needed," Zwozdesky said.

"I know that there's some things that are done right now and I'll be more satisfied going forward once I see exactly what they are."

The worker came forward to health officials after receiving positive test results.

Health officials say the possibility patients were infected is extremely low.

Pacquiao remains huge favorite against Mosley The latest odds have shown that pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao is heavily favored by bettors to beat Shane Mosley on their May 7 12-round World Boxing Organization welterweight match-up at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Pacquiao remains a -800 favorite and Mosley a +500 underdog, meaning an $800 bet on Pacquiao would only win $100 and a mere $100 wager on Mosley would win $500.

This was despite of Mosley’s serious preparation. as he reported for his high-altitude training camp in Big Bear, California some 10 days before the Filipino actually went up to Baguio City with Freddie Roach.

Mosley believes he still has a lot of punch left even though he’s 39 years old, and said he prefers to win by knockout against Pacquiao.

Pacquiao's Canadian adviser Mike Koncz said Mosley looks in

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real great shape and is taking the fight very seriously.

But Pacquiao is also eyeing the same kind of ending as nobody has yet stopped Mosley in his stellar career.

April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Filipino Journal

Alberta

19

Interview with Mikey James: Okay, Mikey. First of all, I want to thank you for granting me this interview.

Mikey: Don’t thank me; thank God I did it. So, what do you want to know? You want to hear all the tsismis about Penoy? Did you hear that his g.f. dumped him and now he’s lumiligaw to a girl he met in Singapore during his state visit there?

by Perry Diaz James: I lost track of his PerryDiaz@gmail.com girlfriends. Talagang chickboy siya. He he he…

Mikey: Chickboy? Aba, when it comes to chicks, I’m better than Penoy.

James: Hey, you remind me of the movie, “Mikey Blue Eyes.”

Have you seen it?

Mikey: Yes, I saw it. But it’s “Mickey Blue Eyes,” not llustration by Dave San Pedro Mikey… y investigative reporter James: Mickey it is then, James Macaquecquec Mikey. By the way, I heard some interviewed ex-prez people were calling you “Mikey Gloria Macapagal Arroyo’s Doe Eyes.” Have you heard son, Congressman Juan Miguel about that?

“Mikey” Arroyo. The interview Mikey: “Mikey Doe Eyes”? went like this: What the heck does that mean?

James: Well, “Doe” is like the James: Good afternoon, “Do Re Mi” song in the “Sound Congressman Arroyo. of Music” movie, which goes: Mikey: Good afternoon, din, “Doe, a deer, a female deer…”

James. Just call me Mikey. No Mikey: Stop! Look, I’m not a need for formalities. female deer or doe, got that?

Balitang Kutsero

M

James: Got it! But they say that you have doe eyes. He he he…

Mikey: Who told you that? Ang mga walang hiya!

James: Okay, okay, let’s change the subject. Hmm…. Here’s a good one. A lot of people were wondering why you were chosen to represent in Congress the “Ang Galing Pinoy” partylist, which represents the marginalized group of tricycle drivers and security guards.

What qualifies you to represent them?

Mikey: That’s easy. I’m very, very qualified to represent them cuz I’ve been driving a tricycle since I was three years old!

James: Huh? How is that?

Mikey: Well, my mommy gave me a tricycle for my birthday gift when I was three years old. And I still have it. Every now and then, I’d go to Luneta and drive it around the grandstand at night.

It’s fun driving a tricycle. You should try it. He he he…

James: You mean to say you’ve never outgrown it? Why don’t you buy a Porsche sports car just like P-Noy. Mike: Peeeeeenoy! Grrr… Don’ you mention his name again!

Never again! Grrr…

James: Oops! Did I touch a

raw nerve? I’m sorry. What happened?

Mikey: That Penoy has the nerve to file tax evasion charges against my wife and me to the tune of P73.85 million! Can you believe that?

James: Whoa! That’s a lot of moolah, Mikey! You can buy a Lamborghini with that!

Mikey: Heck, I’d rather buy another mansion in California.

James: Oh, really? You like California, ha?

Mikey: I love California! That’s why I’ve been buying property there. I want to live there when I retire. There are lots of blond chicks over there. He he he…

James: Oh, really? Tell me more about it.

Mikey: You should invest there, too, James. You can buy homes at 25 cents to the dollar. Very cheap! Baratilyo talaga!

James: Oh, really? How many homes have you bought so far?

Mikey: Heck, I’ve lost track.

More than you could think of, amigo.

James: Mikey, how can you buy properties in California with your congressman’s salary?

Mikey: My mommy taught me all the tricks. He he he…

James: Oh, like skimming off

the top of your pork?

Mikey: You’re a naughty boy, James. Hey, do you think I’d just skim the fat off the top?

James: Oh, I see. You mean, why not take the whole pork, ha?

Mikey: Attaboy, James! You’re catching up fast!

James: Hey, didn’t your mommy get a huge pork this year? I heard something like P2 billion.

Is that true?

Mikey: To be exact, it’s two point two billion pesos!

James: And I suppose she also…

Mikey: She’s an expert… and she’s very good at what she does, James! Got it?

James: Yeah, I got it, Mikey, and I’m sick to the stomach! I’m going to puke… terrible!

Mikey: Sorry, I upset you, James. Hoy! What’s that you’re holding?

James: Oh, this is nothing.

Mikey: It’s a tape recorder!!!

You’re taping our conversation!

You son of…

James: Yep, it’s all recorded and I’m going to turn this over to the Bureau of Internal Revenue!

You’re corrupt! You’ll be “Caponized” for tax evasion just like what happened to Al Capone.

Ha ha ha…

Mikey: Walang hiya!

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April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Horoscope There are many harmonious conditions surrounding your life right now connected to a faraway trip. For you, the student, a great opportunity to pursue higher education is in the cards for you. Your hard work shall be rewarded.

April will be good for any kind of work, the main thing is for that work to give satisfaction to the person doing it. Cancer should not indulge in his usual state of doubt and lurch from one activity to another else he would lose precious time, which is directly intended for achievement of success.

A relative opens old wounds when they go through some of your old belongings. Try not to get angry because there was no harm intended. A walk down memory lane might be good for you at this point in your life, but don’t get wrapped up in the past.

w vYour home will be the central point for you this month as everything seems to be falling in a good place concerning your shared sources of income. You have learned how to manage them and you will be getting rewarded.

You may be busy all month, which doesn’t make you the warmest partner in the world. But maybe it’s better to channel your energy into work instead of trying to nurture harmony in your personal life.

This month will be a very pleasant for you, as everything seems to fall into place, and those around you are at peace. Do not let the hectic times of the holiday get to you, because you are strong and you can adapt.

Your work area, personal finances and outlook on the future are closely interconnected with very harmonious circumstances. You’re lucky break might be closer than you think as you continue to proceed with caution and hard work toward your much dreamed personal goals.

Communication is the key word for Aquarius this month.

There are many good harmonious circumstances surrounding your work place and some new opportunities for you to get some profit from your profession or business.

Gemini should get rid of some of his illusions because real life presents unavoidable requirements. Precise decisions should be taken, specific objectives seen, practical tasks set, so as not to make mistake on the way.

A very good month for you financially, and the holiday turns out to be pretty easy to deal with. A spouse or lover is having a hard time dealing with the pressures of their work and are reluctant to share this with you.

Your loved one seems to be giving you much understanding and support concerning plans for a faraway trip which you are looking at with caution. You are going through a period of expansion that could have given some of you Sagittarians some weight gain. This needs to be handled in a constructive way and not to be looked at like an obstacle in your life.

A big opportunity for you to reach some of your greatest ambitions in life is present due to your hard work and diligence at work. This could bring to your life some monetary reward.

PAHALANG 1 6 11

13 14 15 16 17 19 20 21

Kalatas Pandula Sinusuotan ng butones Damit Nakuha sa yumao Alinsunod Lagay Lugmok Latitude: daglat Marami Paghihiwa-hiwalay

PABABA 23 Bayan sa Pampanga 25 Man 27 Dating hepe ng COMELEC 28 Lawak 29 Pasyal 30 Ilagan 32 Tagtag 33 Mumo 34 Tapon 35 Kilos

1 2 3 4 5 7 8 9 10 12 18

Lumaktaw Kulam Marupok Mataas na baraha Sampu: Ingles Lakma Munisipalidad Samyo ng kape Ms.Gonzaga Guniguni Pinagmulan

20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 31

Bitag Importansiya Banaag Maraming gawain Igat Panalangin Ikahon Bilis Kulo Peluka

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!

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

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April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

by Gem & Lita Anis

The Best of Sydney

W

hether you're a history or culture buff or a plain pleasure-seeker, Sydney, Australia has everything to offer quite enough to keep you occupied and at the end of your journey you won't want to leave.

The state capital of New South Wales with a population od 4,504,469, Sydney is the largest and most popular city in Australia.

Historically, the city is the site of the first English settlement on the continent in 1788 after Capt. James Cook landed in Port Botany and claimed the land for the British Empire. However, long before the Europeans turned up Sydney was home to the Guringai aboriginal people.

Sydney is endowed with natural beauty, stunning climate, inspiring arts and culture, and pleasant people. Its icons and famous places make Sydney so ...

Sydney.

Most visible iconic landmark of Sydney is the Sydney Opera House, designed by Danish architect John Utzon and constructed between 1959 and 1973. Considered one of the

architectural masterpiece of the 20th century, the Sydney Opera House showcases everything from ballet to opera to Shakespeare, playing host to over 2,500 performances and events each year. An hour-long behind-thescenes guided tours reveal the inner workings of this renowned icon.

Contrasting with the Opera House convex sails is the dramatic steel presence of Sydney Harbour Bridge. You can climb via catwalks and ladders to the 134-meter high apex of Sydney's famous "coathanger" and savour the panoramic view of the Harbour. Or you can just drive across it or simply gaze at it from any angle and for sure you're bound to love it.

Explore "The Rocks" and Circular Quay on foot, Sydney's oldest quarter because this area was the first port of call for early European settlers. The Rocks with cobbled laneways, old brick warehouses and historic pubs, modern eateries and contemporary galleries has a fine collection of boutique shops

and heritage buildings plus the colourful Rocks Open Market.

Sydney is home to world's most well-known beaches, Bondi Beach and Manly patrolled daily by professional lifeguards.

The Chinatown of Sydney is a lively district close to the city centre, offering an eclectic mix of mouthwatering cuisine and groovy Asian boutiques and food/ convenience stores. Quite a busy place making it so hard to find a parking spot.

We enjoyed the Royal Botanical Gardens, an oasis of 3o hectares of natural parklands in the heart of the city, and the Sydney

Bondi Beach, Sydney

Gem & Lita at the Blue Mountains

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Aquarium, where we walked underwater and discovered the largest collection of all-Australian aquatic life. You could come face to face with sharks and giant rays in the Great Barrier Reef habitat.

To the west of Sydney lies the UNESCO world heritage listed Blue Mountains located at Katoomba, noted for striking scenery, rainforests and wildlife.

It takes about 2 hours by car to get to the famous Blue Mountains called Blue because the eucalyptus trees that cover their slopes make them look literally blue.

After viewing the wilderness of the Blue Mountains from the

Alberta

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windy "Flat Rock", also called the Kings Tableland, we had a relaxing bushwalk to the most breathtaking waterfalls in the area, the Wentworth Falls.

We stopped at the Scenic World and rode on the Scenic Railway, world's steepest incline railway and returned by riding "The Cableway" to the top of the canyon where the mountains are best seen in all its glory. From Echo Point we viewed the famous and legendary "The Three Sisters" rock formations.

After five days we left Sydney with a heavy heart.

The Three Sisters Rock Formation

Gem & Lita, Sydney Opera House in background

22 Filipino Journal

Alberta

April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Makai Caraang Celebrates First Birthday

Lerma and Manolito Calina Celebrate Silver Wedding Anniversary in Wetaskiwin

Makai (Kai) first birthday was a memorable event especially for Mom An elegant renewal of vows for Lerma and Manolito Calina culminated at Best Western Wayside Inn in Jen and Dad DJ Kwake Caraang, relatives and friends.

Wetaskiwin, Alberta last Saturday, April 23, 2011. Guests from Toronto, Seattle, Calgary and Edmonton The party was held on Sunday April 3, 2011 at Northmount witnessed the vows followed by dinner and highly entertaining programs.

Community Hall. A surprise visit of Elmo and Buzz Lightyear and the Ninongs and Ninangs of the parents added fun to the party.

The Renewal of Vows officiated by Reverend Wayne Wicks (Mission Church).

Lerma and Manolito Cutting of the Cake.

Mom Jen, Baby Kai, and Dad DJ Kwake Caraang

The Filipino Old Timers of Wetaskiwin Guests.

Nonong Granado Celebrates Birthday Nonong Granado's birthday fell on a Good Friday but it did not deter him to celebrate his 61st birthday. A quiet birthday bash was celebrated at the Angeles residence with friends.

This affair was organized by wife Edith Granado. A sacrificial "Pabasa" was offered as well.

Kai surrounded by Mom and Dad and playmates.

L- R Grandpa Camilo Caraang, Grandpa Mario Padilla, Grandma Fe Padilla, Dad Archie, Joyce and Ted Dizon, Lulu and Tony Bernal, Mom Jen, Jun and Hermie Angeles, Aunt Cres Estioko, and Joe and Elled Lardizabal

Nonong Granado with his wife Edith with circle of friends.

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April 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Filipino Journal

Alberta

23

Philippines Represents in Mini World Cup and Heritage Cup Tournament

by Melanie Angeles

Edmonton District Soccer Association host a Mini World Cup and a Heritage Cup Tournament every two year. This year there were two women's soccer teams that represented Philippines on the tournament which started March 30 and ended April13, 2011. Team Philippines was in the same division as El Salvador, India and Serbiain

in the Heritage Cup. India dominated the game and won the first place. Team Philippines did a great job and in the tournament and excited for the next season in 2013. Team Pinay (Philippines) was eliminated early in the game at the Mini World Cup but gained experience to prepare them in the next Mini World Cup in 2013.

Team Philippines for the Heritage Cup Tournament Back row from Left to right: Wendy Buchanan(Manager/Player), Ricki Solamiero(Coach), Leanne Ure, Shannon Medaglia-Horneman, Andrea Blais, Andrea Stevens, Chelsea Baylon, Caitlyn Ducasse, Kathy MacKay, Minnie Estigoy, Melannie Angeles, Oscar Platero(Coach), Front Row: Lana Kuzyk, Melanie Angeles, Mary Borres, Sandrine Griffon, Katrina Agusto, Shelly Daus, Sarah Beckett, Kristina Lung, Jocelyn Asuncion, Missing: Chris Martin(Coach)

Team Philippines (Team Pinay) with Coach Mike Angeles Grace Malbog- Tan, General Manager.

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Philippine Board Carriers and Flag Carriers in Parade of Nations at the Opening of the Tournament.

Photos by Jun Angeles | Filipino Journal

info@FilipinoJournal.com â–Ş(780) 988-2220

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24 Filipino Journal

Alberta

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Visit our Web site - www.FilipinoJournal.com - all photos & articles available online!

April 2011