Filipino Journal Alberta Edition August 2014

FREE COPY

Volume 6, Number 8 • August 2014

TV Filipino Global Fest coverage

Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Senator Enverga Visits Edmonton

Page 11 ► Anna Avila, Segment Producer and Host of TV Filipino Canada in action at the Philippine Pavilion with PIM Foundation's Anne Siapno-Cumlat at Globalfest Calgary2014, with the TV Filipino Dream Team, Brent Anotado, Hanes Marasigan-Anotado, Justin Pono and Honey Gail Isip.

Greg Parillas, National Director of CFC Canada, Diony Tanada, Past President of Quezonian club of Edmonton. Letty Tria, immediate Past President and Chairman of the Board of the Filipino Nurses of Alberta (FNAA) Eva Tanada, Hermie Angeles, Rosemer Enverga and Senator Tobias Enverga, Jr., Art Santos, Fely Santos, Past President of Quezonian Club of Edmonton, and Jun Angeles, Publisher Alberta Filipino Journal and Founder of the Quezonian Club of Edmonton.

Beauty Pageant Candidates

Rizalenos Venerate Patron Saint Rosa de Lima

Participants and Candidates

Page 5 ►

Page 21 ►

2

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

WE SELL CARS

We’ve got you covered ALL MAKES ALL MODELS

NEW & USED

ZERO

CHESTER

D O WN P A Y M E NT

CARLO

TONY

1-800 -7 37 -9923 W W W .THEFILIP INOCONNECTION.CA C RO SSTO W N AUTO CENTRE | 1 5520 - 1 23 AVE • E D M ON TON , A B 2 0 1 2 # 1 CHRYSL E R, DODGE , RAM, JE E P AND F L AT DE AL E R I N C A N A D A

All photos & articles available online!

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014

3

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Alberta Filipino Journal 6th Anniversary Alberta Filipino Journal made its premiere issue in Alberta on July, 2008. A concerted efforts of Jun Angeles and Rod Cantiveros of Winnipeg who paid a visit during the Heritage Festival in Edmonton on July 2008. Jun Angeles who was the President of the Council of Edmonton Filipino Associations, newly elected Premier of Alberta Ed Stelmach and 1st Filipino MLA Carl Benito graced the front page of the newspaper. After the maiden issue, the Alberta Filipino Journal dominated the Filipino media being the only monthly newspaper released in Edmonton at that time. From the message of Honourable Ed Stelmach, he congratulated the Alberta Filipino Journal, "Alberta is proud of its multiculturalism.

Many different nationalities call our province a home and I believe that it is diversity as a province that gives us strength. Alberta has vibrant Filipino community and I encourage everyone to take advantage of the wealth of information in this unique publication." He further continued his message with "Special thanks must go to all those involved in putting together the first issue of the Alberta Filipino Journal.

From gathering content, to design, to layout, I am confident your hard work is appreciated by FilipinoAlbertan across the province."

Seated L-R Baida Pagtakhan, Wilf Ladores, Purita Carlos, Fely Santos, Hermie and Jun Angeles, StandingL-R Hermo Pagtakhan, Ferdie Sy, Orly Carlos, Brenda, Dolly Tan & Gemmalyn.

To date on its 6th year of publication, Alberta Filipino Journal continued to become the major Filipino newspaper branding itself as "The Pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada."

After the maiden released in Edmonton, the Alberta Filipino Journal looked for a representation for the city of Calgary.

Former MLA Carl Benito introduced Jose 'Pepito' Magpayo, executive producer of TV Filipino to bring him on board as Alberta Filipino Journal Associate Editor/Marketing and the rest is

Let's get social

history. The myriad events and news in Edmonton and Calgary were captured in the forms of prints in words and pictures bringing good reviews from Filipino readership.

Local columnists teen Miya Villarena injects new fresh perspectives in our paper bringing her keen observation on how to adopt as young high school student in Canada. We introduced columnist Lito Mendoza Velasco writing on more philosophical and matured outlook in life and lately Erlinda 'Dolly' Tan on her sometimes serious, somtimes humorous and entertaining

Dolly Tan, regular columnist cutting the anniversary cake.

articles. She arrayed her feelings and emotions to paper especially on the recent super storm Yolanda tragedy. We were entertained by Jairus Bilo's poems. His poems so deep and beautifully written that once you get the gist, you can sigh a relief as if solving the puzzle successfully. Noli Granado , our photographer brought numerous pictures that usually landed in the front page of the newspaper.

In Calgary Pepito Magpayo introduced to us columnist Danilo Donor refreshing us on Philippine history. Truly his column not only define history but he conjures a deep sense of patriotism. Lately,

FilipinoJournal. com

we have the opportunity to be associated with Jerry Caingcoy who occasionally write for the Journal.

Jun Angeles, co- founder and associate Publisher of Filipino Journal held a summer barbecue party on Friday, August 8, 2014 at his residence in commemoration with the papers' 6th year of providing service not only to the Filipino community but also to the general public in Alberta.

Columnists, contributors, supporters were invited at his residence for some fun and camaraderie.

4

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

Tacloban, ten months after typhoon Yolanda

By Erlinda Dolly Tan

T

en months after the strongest typhoon destroyed and flattened Tacloban, the city is going back to normal. The downtown area is vibrant again, stores have re-opened and tricycle units are plying the road again.

However, many stores are now run by businessmen from other towns, not by the original owners. The stalls are being rented out. The original owners have not fully recovered yet, generally Taclobanons are still recovering from the massive loss brought about by typhoon Yolanda, international name – Haiyan.

Schools, banks and different offices have re-opened with the help of the government, non-government organizations and through the aid from other countries.

New structures are evident at different parts of the city.

St. Paul’s Hospital, the biggest hospital in Region VIII, is again open for business with new laboratory facilities, some were donated by other countries. However Bethany Hospital, the second biggest, is still under repair.

Same story goes for fast food chain Jollibee, one branch has re-opened while one is still under renovation. McDonald’s is also being reconstructed. The store was totally damaged as it is located by the ocean.

Many residential houses are still roofless, some have tarps. Many victims who lost their homes still live in tents.

Others were given a “construction kit” by their church, enough construction materials to build a temporary shelter and re-start life.

Ten months after this place was erased from the map, some volunteers from other countries have remained. Korean soldiers wearing military uniform can still be seen helping around. They help build houses by manual labor.

At Barangay Anibong, the village that

had become a tourist destination because of five boats washed ashore – the boats have remained at the middle of the shanties.

It’s hard to tow them back as the ocean is now shallow. One of the boats had been cut to pieces by the owner, the only possible way to remove it from the residential area.

Outside Barangay San Joaquin church, the place visited by known personalities like UNICEF Ambassador and football legend David Beckham – the mass grave had remained. It is a painful reminder of typhoon Yolanda’s fury. Story goes that after the flood, dead bodies were brought to the door step of the Catholic church, numbering to almost 400. Survivors then dug the ground with bare hands to bury the dead.

This place was changed forever. For Tacloban residents, life goes on but the trauma remains. For a balikbayan from Tacloban like this writer, the post-Yolanda shock and tears are inevitable.

This boat remains stuck at Barangay Anibong, ten months after the strongest typhoon in human history hit Tacloban City.

A temporary mass grave outside Barangay San Joaquin church in Palo (town next to Tacloban).

Barangay San Joaquin church in the background.

About 400 victims are buried in this mass grave. The place was one of the hardest hit by the typhoon.

Erlinda Dolly Tan visited the mass grave at Barangay San Joaquin.

Two of five boats washed ashore at Barangay Anibong can be seen from this photo. Four boats have remained at the middle of the residential shanties.

One had been cut to pieces by the owner.

Life moves on for these residents of Barangay Anibong. Some boats washed ashore by the flood can be seen at the background of this photo.

Alberta Filipino Journal reporter Erlinda Dolly Tan, a Taclobanon, visited her hometown and played with this little survivor.

Senator Enverga meets with new Philippine Ambassador to Canada Senator Enverga met with newly appointed Philippine Ambassador to Canada Petronila Garcia, during a recent visit to the Philippines.

Joined by Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines Neil Reeder, Senator Enverga wished Ambassador Garcia all the best on her new assignment, and said that he looked forward to working with her on matters of

mutual interest during her tenure in Ottawa.

Ambassador Garcia had previously served as the Philippine Ambassador to the State of Israel and the Arab Republic of Egypt. She has the distinction of being the first female Philippine ambassador to be assigned to an Arab country.

L-R: Canadian Ambassador to the Philippines Neil Reeder, Mrs. Irene Reeder, Philippine Ambassador to Canada Ms. Petronila Garcia, Embassy Staff, Mrs Rosemer Enverga and Senator Tobias Enverga.

All photos & articles available online!

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

5

Beauty Pageant Candidates Crave for Max's Famous Halo-Halo

Beauty Pageant Candidates

A

fter the gruelling fashion show at West Edmonton Mall, the participants of the Search for Miss Teen Philippines of the World, Miss Philippines of the World and Mister Philippines of the World had the opportunity to drop by at the Max's restaurant to refresh themselves

with Max's famous halo-halo.

Together with the candidates were Mattea Henderson, Miss Teen Universe Canada 2014, Vivian Diaz Arroyo, Miss Teen Universe 2014, Kathleen Cabillan, Miss Teen Universe Philippines, Amber delos Reyes, Miss Teen Expoworld 2013 and Kristian

Candidates with previous winners.

Denver Diaz, Mr. International Canada 2013. They will be the special guests for coronation night at the pageant which be held at Gateway Alliance Church on Saturday August 30, 2014.

Winners of the pageant will be published on the September issue of the Alberta Filipino Journal.

Winners from previous pageant.

Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

6

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

‘Din’ versus ‘Rin’ (On Filipino Grammar) Sa Bawat Pahina ng Literatura by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

A

ny language is easy to use by its native speaker only if it is being used for conversational purposes.

However, when it is used formally, proper grammar is required; and this surely poses a big challenge even to native speakers of that language.

Having said that, here are a few details that a Filipino speaker must follow if she wants to be grammatically correct, especially when formal writing is involved.

language use is concerned, there in the sentence is secondhand; as in “they say,” “he said,” are grammatical rules to follow. “reportedly,” “supposedly.”

On Daw, Din, and Dito “Manonood raw sila ng Use any of these ‘d’ words when the final sound of the word sine sa Sabado.” [She said that they would watch a movie on preceding it is consonantal.

Saturday.]

Examples: 1. Nahulog daw siya sa hagdan *The Filipino particle din/rin kahapon.

2 Masarap din magluto si functions as the counterpart of the English ‘too,’ ‘also,’ or ‘after all.’

Mommy.

“Ako rin.” [I too.]

3. Matindi ang tag-ulan dito.

“Ito ay mabigat din.” [This is also heavy.]

On Raw, Rin, and Rito Use any of these ‘r’ words “Ang matagal na ligawan ay sa when the final sound of the word kasalan din nauwi.” [The long preceding it is vowel (a, e, i, o, courtship ended up in marriage u), a semivowel (w, y), or ‘d’ (to after all.] avoid the duplication of the ‘d’ *The Filipino word dito/rito is the sound). exact counterpart of the English Examples: 1. Ibili mo raw siya ng bagong pronoun here.

“Pumunta ka rito bukas.” [Come cellphone.

2. Sa bahay rin pala ang handaan. here tomorrow.]

3. Hindi puwedeng maglakad rito.

Daw/Raw, Din/Rin, Dito/Rito In conversational or informal use, the Filipino words daw, din, The Last Leaf dito may be used interchangeably *The Filipino word daw/ with raw, rin, and rito respectively. raw is a reporting particle that However, when formal Filipino expresses that the information

August 2014

USFAA upgrades PH aviation security rating

T

he US Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) upgraded to Category 1 of the Philippines’ aviation safety rating allowing the Philippine Airlines (PAL) to expand its flights from Philippines to Guam.

The daily flights to Guam, a US territory in the Pacific Ocean will begin on October 26, 2014.

The island is a vital military

base for the US Armed Forces and is home to more than 13,000 permanent Filipino residents.

In a statement, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said Philippine Consul General in Guam Marciano De Borja congratulated PAL for this milestone which is a manifestation of enhanced international confidence in the Philippines.

BSP ready for global geopolitical volatilities

by Jairus Bilo

PERSONAL HELL Current ember to slight linger Opportunistic rage scraping The better gradients of scale Shook out of cramped ego Benign for bigger duplicates Whether foreign funding On masse resistance Here I am in the 7th hell No escape but invites To cower out without drive Melt my face and shed out skin To leave the gradual finish Complete the what ifs And survive the other side In favour of destitute rhythms

All photos & articles available online!

Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) Governor Amando M. Tetangco Jr. said they are ready for volatilities arising from shifts in investor sentiment that could lead to volatility in capital flows arising from the geopolitical tensions between Russia and the West.

Last week, Russia announced that it plans to ban all food imports from the United States and all fruits and vegetables from Europe to counter measures imposed by the US and European Union against Russia amid the latter’s role in the Ukraine crisis.

FilipinoJournal. com

The BSP chief said the effect of Russia’s announcement was observed in the declines in the Philippine Stock Exchange index and the peso. However, he stressed that the volatilities are short-term while the local domestic fundamentals remain strong. He added that BSP will adjust policy levers should these begin to have a more significant effect on commodity supply chains and global trade, and on global prices and domestic inflation expectations over the policy horizon.

August 2014

7

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Tuscany CTrain Station opens for service Get involved! It’s your City. to Calgarians on Monday, August 25, 2014 Volunteer positions available Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

O

fficials from all orders of government were on hand to celebrate the completion of the ninth station on the Northwest LRT (Red Line) and the 45th station in Calgary’s CTrain system. It opened for service last Monday, August 25, 2014. The new station, located 2.5 km west of Crowfoot Station, will serve about 40,000 people in the communities of Rocky Ridge, Royal Oak and Tuscany.

The new extension, by providing direct service to the station from the communities, saves over $1 million a year by reducing the need for two buses every day. It also decreases round trip time for buses, reduces fuel consumption, and reduces vehicle wear and tear in the long term. More than 300,000 people ride the CTrain in Calgary every weekday.

Construction on the extension began in July 2012 after a comprehensive design and consultation process. This latest improvement to Calgary’s transit system would not have been possible without a strong partnership between the Government of Canada, the Province of Alberta and the City of Calgary; each government made significant contributions to the project.

The total cost of the Northwest LRT extension to Tuscany is $123.3 million. The Government of Canada provided $2.5 million through the federal Gas Tax Fund. The Province of Alberta contributed $118.8 million ($34.5 million through the Basic Municipal Transportation

Grant, and $84.4 million through a Municipal Sustainability Initiative (MSI) Grant). The City of Calgary contributed $1.9 million ($1.5 million through the Transportation Levy and $410,000 through the Corporate Capital Reserve).

“Improving public transit is an important factor in enhancing the quality of life in communities across the country as well as contributing to a cleaner environment. Through the federal Gas Tax Fund, we are continuing to deliver long-term infrastructure funding to municipalities for local road upgrades, as we focus on creating jobs, promoting growth, and building strong, prosperous communities across Canada," said Joan Crockatt, Member of Parliament for Calgary Centre.

“We are committed to investing in families and communities,” says Greg Weadick, Minister of Municipal Affairs. “By helping to build public transit, we are helping to build stronger communities in our great province. Calgary’s C-Train extension enhances the convenient and efficient transportation options that are important to quality of life in this growing city.”

“A growing city has to keep up with the transportation and mobility needs of its citizens. The CTrain extension to the communities of Rocky Ridge, Royal Oak and Tuscany allows us to bring efficient public transit to tens of thousands of Calgarians. The extension will improve travel time, reliability, and customer service for Calgary Transit

customers in the area,” says City of Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

The federal Gas Tax Fund provides predictable, long-term funding to municipalities to help them build and rehabilitate their infrastructure. The federal Gas Tax Fund has been extended, doubled, indexed, legislated and made permanent. Eligible categories have also been expanded, providing municipalities with more flexibility than ever before to support local infrastructure. These improvements will see Canada's Gas Tax Fund grow from its current $2 billion per year while providing provinces and municipalities with predictable funding to deliver on local infrastructure priorities.

Through the federal Gas Tax Fund alone, the federal government currently provides $208,650,536 in funding annually for municipal infrastructure in Alberta.

Since 2007, Alberta’s Municipal Sustainability Initiative has been the province’s key initiative for strengthening municipalities. Under the MSI, significant funding is provided to municipalities to enhance community sustainability, address local infrastructure needs and enable them to meet the demands of growth. The Alberta Government’s Budget 2014 is providing over $3.7 billion in MSI capital over the next three years, including support from the consolidation of the Basic Municipal Transportation Grant under the MSI program.

on City of Calgary Boards, Commissions and Committees Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

T

he City of Calgary is recruiting volunteers to fill positions on various Boards, Commissions and Committees (BCCs). Members serving on these BCCs provide guidance to City Council on important civic issues ranging from accessibility, housing, planning to public art.

City Clerk, Sue Gray says, “Sitting on a Board, Commission or Committee offers Calgarians the opportunity to give back to their community while gaining valuable experience in their area of interest. The City and all residents benefit greatly from the expertise and passion that these community-minded volunteers bring to these positions.”

This year, The City is looking for volunteers to fill vacancies on 19 various Boards, Commissions and Committees.

Membership requirements vary depending on the Board, Commission and Committee, however, The City of Calgary is looking for: • Individuals with a desire to give back to the community; • Individuals with specific expertise relevant to the qualifications a specific Board, Commission or Committee may be looking for; • Individuals interested in the legislative process; and • Individuals with time available to commit to membership.

Vacancies exist on the following BCCs: Aboriginal Urban Affairs Committee (Calgary) Access Calgary Eligibility Appeal Board

New school and playground zone hours in effect September 1 Filed by Jose “Pepito” G. Magpayo

N

ew school and playground Motor Association, and other zone hours will officially municipalities in Alberta about be in effect on September changing school and playground 1, 2014. zone times. Their feedback Motorists are advised to slow consistently indicated that the down to 30km/h in school and “one hour after sunset” end time playground zones during these for playground zones was not times: effective, and made it difficult for • Playground zones are in effect drivers to consistently follow the from 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., every rules. day of the year.

The new times also take into • School zones are in effect from account after-hours activities at 7:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., on school schools such as community sports, days only. clubs, and other extracurricular Changing school and activities. playground zone hours to one Council approved changes consistent time is a proactive to school and playground zone measure to improve pedestrian hours on July 22, 2014. There safety. are180 school zones and 1510 “This change is really about playground zones in the Calgary. improving safety in areas where City crews have been working we see high volumes of children,” diligently throughout the month said Staff Sergeant Paul Stacey of August to change the times with the Calgary Police Service. on almost 5,000 school and “These new hours are reflective playground zone signs city-wide. of the times we see schools and playgrounds being used, and are For background information consistent and easy to remember about this project and questions for drivers.” about signage: The City talked to Transportation – Roads school boards, the Alberta

Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

Advisory Committee on Accessibility Airport Authority (Calgary) Audit Committee Calgary Parking Authority Calgary Technologies Inc Combative Sports Commission Convention Centre Authority eGovernment Strategy Advisory Committee Heritage Authority (Calgary) Planning Commission (Calgary) Police Commission (Calgary) Prince’s Island Park Management Advisory Committee Protective Services Citizen Oversight Committee Public Art Board Saddledome Foundation Taxi Limousine Advisory Committee Tourism Calgary More information on the Board, Commission or Committee mandate, eligibility requirements, length of term, and time commitments for members can be found by visiting calgary.ca/cityclerks.

There are several ways to apply for a position: • Applicants can apply online by filling out the application form on our website; • Applications can be submitted by mail to the City Clerk’s Office (#8007), P.O. Box 2100, Postal Station “M”, Calgary, AB, T2P 2M5; or • Hand delivered between 8:00 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. at The City Clerk’s Office, Main Floor, City Hall, 700 Macleod Trail S.E., Calgary, AB T2G 2M3 The deadline to submit an application is Friday, September 19 at 4:30 p.m.

8

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

Gruesome Execution

by Dr.

Eusebio Koh

O

n Tuesday, August 19, 2014, the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) released a video that shows the gruesome beheading of American journalist James Foley.

The extremist group threatened to kill another captured photojournalist, Steven Joel Sotloff of Miami if the U. S. does not stop its airstrikes in Iraq.

The 40-year old Bostonbased Foley disappeared in Northern Syria on November 22, 2012 while reporting on casualties at the frontlines claimed by the rebels. It is ironic that this man

who seemed sympathetic to the sufferings of people in the wartorn Middle East should suffer such a fate.

The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) said about 20 journalists of different nationalities are missing in Syria. CPJ believes that the captives are being used as ransoms. There have been little reports on the missing journalists in order to lessen the threats on their lives and health.

Here’s the take from my good email friend, Virgilio Gonzales from Danbury, Connecticut: “Islam is a religion of peace. No further proof is needed than 9/11 when its radical followers sent 3000 Americans to rest in peace. That was just the beginning. Now they are doing it again in Iraq with more brutality and savagery than ever.

“You don’t have to be a Christian, just be a normal human being, to be shocked at what the ISIS is doing in Iraq.

“Man’s inhumanity to man is nothing new under the sun.

In recent history we have seen the likes of the Holocaust, the Japanese atrocities in WWII, the killing fields in Vietnam and Cambodia, the Tiananmen Square massacre, the Russian gulags and many others. But this one in the Middle East goes beyond the pale.

“In this ethnic cleansing Christians, Yazidis and other minorities in Iraq are being maltreated and murdered for just being different. We wonder if our world has gone mad. In this day and age we expect people to be more civilized, educated and enlightened. But it is not so.

“When helpless and innocent men (and even children) are being decapitated and their heads impaled and displayed on iron fences, we wonder at what manner of people these are. Do they have any human feelings or conscience at all?

“President Obama seemed to have already given up the fight, although he has authorized air drops of humanitarian supplies and limited air strikes against Islam militants in Iraq. He said:

American journalist Jim Foley just before his death

“As commander-in-chief I will not allow the United States to be dragged into another war in Iraq.”

“But we now live in a global village, made so by modern technology and weapons of mass destruction. What John Donne had said four centuries ago still rings true today: “No man is an island, entire of itself. Every man is a part of the main…Any man’s death diminishes me because I am involved in mankind. And therefore never send to know for whom the bell tolls, it tolls for thee.”

“President Obama should not wash his hands off this

genocide in the Middle East while Christians, Yazidis and Jews are being slaughtered.”

“War is Hell!” as Union General William Tecumseh Sherman said during the American Civil War. But the inhumanity shown in the Middle East seems to exceed what we are able to fathom. Back in 2002, a similar execution was done in Pakistan by the Al Qaeda which also shocked the world. Did the terrorists achieve its objective?

As far as we know, the Americans hunted down the executioner and had him in some American jail.

Ottawa Forum For Visiting Philippine Business Mission

A

visiting business delegation from the Philippines, comprised of heads, owners and representatives of various Philippine enterprises, was welcomed at the Philippine Embassy in Ottawa on 20 August 2014, where a business forum took place at the Embassy Salon.

The mission was put together by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce in Manila, and was led by Executive Director Cora Dela Cruz,with the business forum facilitated by Mr. Paul Tesseyman, President of the Canada Philippines Business Council (CPBC).

Welcoming the delegation were DCM Norman Garibay, Consul General Eric Tamayo, and Minister Flerida Mayo, and leading a distinguished roster of speakers was Mr. Ian Faris, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce.

Joining Mr. Faris from the Chamber was Mr. Kenny Leon, as well as Mr. ZakiMunshi, Project Manager for Asia of the Trade Facilitation Office Canada (TFO Canada), Ms. Marti Falcone, Regional Manager for Asia

of Export Development Canada (EDC), and Ms. Sophie Chen, Senior Business Development Manager, Greater China Market from Invest Ottawa.

The Philippine business mission was comprised by enterprises whose interests range from education and training, real estate, agri-food manufacturing and agri-business, packaging and labelling. The companies include ABI College, ABI Land Corporation, Agro-Industrial Cable Transport Inc., KCD Builders Corp., KCD Technical Institute, P.H. Espina Realty, PinoyCare Visa Center Inc., RAON Enterprises and RNF Summit Industries Corp.

The Embassy provided a briefing highlighting the potential of 24/7 operations for Canadian companies through extended BPO and ITenabled services in the Philippines, and opportunities in power generation and infrastructure development.

Attention was drawn to the credit upgrades obtained by the Philippines that give boost to the country`s credit worthiness.

Ronald Cantiveros

Publisher/Chief Operating Officer VP-Business Development Managing Editor

In his remarks, Mr. Faris assured the visiting delegation that their association stands ready to facilitate linkages and expressions of interest of the visiting delegation with the members of their association.

For his part, Mr. Munshi encouraged the heads of the enterprises present to take advantage of the services offered by TFOC in exporting products to Canada and for Philippine enterprises to tap into its network of over 1,500 business establishments, most of whom are keen on sourcing various products from overseas.

Ms. Falcone drew attention to the Customer Finance Guarantee Programs of the EDC. She indicated that the Philippines is indeed a true emerging market offering growing opportunities for Canadian exporters and investors. She reckoned that priority sectors presenting strong opportunity for Canadian companies include food processing, cleantech, pulp & paper, ICT and mining.

Ms. Chen highlighted the value proposition of Ottawa as a compelling destination and source for enterprises partnerships.

Webco Leduc

Sales & Advertising

Jose (Jun) Angeles, Jr.

Official Photographer

Associate Editor/Marketing afjcalgary@shaw.ca (403) 264-5605

Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros

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

Published Quarterly

Associate Editor

A Division of Bowes Publishers Ltd. Leduc, AB Printer

Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

$600 million. Over 50% pf Philippine exports were electrical machinery and equipment, while the bulk of imports from Canada were meat and edible meat offal.

Ottawa Business Forum For Visiting Philippine Enterprises. The Philippine Delegation led by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce of Manila (Top Photo). Left to Right: Ian Faris, President/CEO of the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce, ZakiMunshi of TFO Canada, Marti Falcone of EDC, Sophie Chen Invest Ottawa, and Paul Tesseyman, President/CEO of the CPBC.

www.FilipinoBrideAndGroom.com Published Annually

aLfie vera mella

Rod Escobar Cantiveros

Associate Publisher - Alberta 246 Lindsay St. Edmonton, AB T64 2T2 email: angeles.associates@gmail.com 1-780-988-8889 or 1- 780-916-7677.

Philippines-Canada trade remained steady in 2013, with total trade standing $2.1 Billion. Philippine merchandise exports to Canada increased to $1.14 Billion, while imports from Canada reached about

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.

Noli Granado Christopher & Nikki Richter

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

All photos & articles available online!

Published by Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Rd., Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3 •Tel: 888-489-8894 Fax: (204) 489-1575 •info@filipinojournal.com •www.filipinojournal.com Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032612 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Road, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3

FilipinoJournal. com

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

9

Mr. & Mrs. Leopoldo (Pol) & Lolita (Nelly) Naval Celebrate 50 Years - Golden Wedding Anniversary

I

by Cres Estioko

n this modern day and age, not very many couples could stand the test of time - to love and cherish each other in Holy Matrimony. On July 19, 2014, the Navals manifested that their love for each other flourished over the years. They celebrated and shared this special milestone with wonderful family and great friends at the Beijing House / Manila Bay Restaurant. The fruit of their love produced 3 beautiful and successful children, adopted 1, and 7 lovely grandchildren.

Ofelia Agbulos presented the couple with certificates of well-wishes from the Prime Minister- the Right Honorable Mr. Steven Harper, Alberta Premiere the Honorable Mr. Dave Hancock, and from the Lieutenant Governor of Alberta - the Honorable Mr. Donald S. Ethell .

And NOW, 50 years later

Mr. and Mrs. Naval THEN on their Wedding Day

And great friends.

The wonderful Naval Family

Prairie Winds Spray Park re-opens to public bigger, wetter and better Filed by Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

T

he City of Calgary Parks makes a big splash today with the re-opening of Prairie Winds Spray Park. The completely renovated spray park, along with the wading pool, will be open until September 14, weather dependent, to give Calgarians a chance to check out what all the new features have to offer for Calgarians of all ages.

“The entire spray park was completely redesigned and expanded to bring it up to today’s standards,” says Anne Charlton, Parks director.

“Families and kids of all ages are going to have a lot of fun discovering everything the new spray park has to offer.”

The unique design of the spray park is based on a grassland theme,

and is the first of its kind in North America. It features water structures that are shaped like different kinds of grasses and flowers, and has different types of insects that shower children with water as they run across the spray pad.

The spray park was at the end of its lifecycle and in need of upgrades and improvements to meet today’s health, safety and accessibility standards.

“The original spray park was built in 1990, the same year Prairie Winds Park opened to the public. So after 25 years of service to Calgarians, it was time to give it a face lift,” Charlton says.

Well over 100,000 people in the immediate area use Prairie Winds Park as their regional park, along with others from across Calgary who drive

Let's get social

substantial distances to make use of the spray park and other facilities at Prairie Winds.

“On a beautiful, sunny Saturday, up to over 2000 people, including children and their families, can be seen in the wading pool/spray park area at any given time, cooling off and enjoying the water,” says Ward 5 Councillor Ray Jones. “The City is growing, and in order to meet its growth, we have to invest in our communities - investing in communities is an integral part of what makes a city great and improves quality of life for citizens.”

The lifecycle upgrades and improvements to the spray park were made possible with funding from the Council-created Community Investment Fund (CIF). In 2011, CIF was created to help fund tangible and

useful community improvements projects. Through CIF, Council gives back to Calgarians by investing in and supporting new community projects and critical lifecycle upgrades throughout the city.

“Over half of The City’s community facilities are 40 to 50 years old, with many structural components needing repair,” says Councillor Jones. “It’s Council’s job to ensure facilities and park amenities are in good repair, and Calgarians are satisfied with the operations of these facilities.”

The new design also saves on water use and energy. With the new holding tank and treatment system, the water needs to be drained once at the end of the season. In addition, water is only activated after a child turns on the sprays by pushing a button.

FilipinoJournal. com

“The new spray pad is 10 times larger than the previous one, but it will use the same amount of water as before. The new system has its own dedicated and enclosed water treatment system, with UV disinfection capabilities for added protection,” says Charlton. “The previous spray pad pulled water from the existing wading pool. Now, it’s completely independent from the wading pool and exceeds provincial health and safety standards.”

The spray park at Eau Claire Plaza and Variety Spray Park at South Glenmore Park will also remain open until September 14. Please note that all other City spray parks and wading pools will closed at their regular season end, which is Labour Day weekend at the beginning of September.

ADVERTISE in the

Filipino Journal AND FEEL THE WARMTH OF THE UNIQUE FILIPINO CULTURE IN CANADA! NOW SERVING ALBERTA - EDMONTON, CALGARY, RED DEER, FORT MCMURRAY, MEDICINE HAT, GRAND PRAIRIE and NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

WINNIPEG

ALBERTA

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Winnipeg!

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta!

The Filipino Journal is published twice a month in Winnipeg. We are committed to help you attain your marketing, sales, and company objectives. Your company advertisement in our newspaper will surely appeal to 50,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers. Advertisers can expect to get their message to its readers and consumers in this area. People read the Filipino Journal because of its very informative news, entertainment sections and useful everyday information on living in Canada.

Filipino Journal is the no.1 Filipino-Canadian Newspaper in Alberta that published 10,000 copies once a month. We are the largest and fastest growing Filipino-Canadian newspaper, with 70,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers.

With a unique message that will attract readers and consumers. Advertising your products and services is one of the most strategic business decisions you can make.

Call 888-489-8894

info@FilipinoJournal.com

www.FilipinoJournal.com

Filipino Journal SOCIAL MEDIA SERVICES

Social media marketing brings your company to the fastest growing networking hubs on the Internet.

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

Social Media Marketing services include: Social Media Strategy - finding your potential clients on-line and figuring out how to reach them.

Corporate Facebook Pages – building and managing effective Facebook presences; Twitter Services – using Twitter the right way.

Our social media marketing services can: * * * * * * *

increase brand awareness; create buzz; promote and advertise products and services; generate sales; establish expertise; drive more web site traffic showcase and demonstrate product effectiveness.

Facebook, MySpace, Flickr and YouTube get millions of visitors daily. Tap into this vital social phenomenon and reach a vast new audience, contact the Filipino Journal today to find out how.

FJ

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

10

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

2014 Kia Soul SX Luxury Cool Car! Cool Colour My Ride

by Ron

Cantiveros

ron@filipinojournal.com

T

he Kia Soul is one bright car, literally. As I was picking up the Kia Soul, its presence in the parking lot was very visible. The Kia Soul in Solar Yellow was a standout in the parking lot and along the streets of Winnipeg. I was actually expecting the Kia to arrive in the Alien Green colour that I’ve normally noticed on the streets.

Solar Yellow is just as bright, colourful and very visible.

The Kia Soul is very comfy with a spacious interior for a 5-passenger hatchback. It offers an extremely smooth ride and just sitting in the driver’s seat, an interior and dashboard that is packed with features.

The Kia Soul was extensively re-designed for 2014 and the features are impressive. Let’s start with the cooling glove box and air conditioned cooling seats

which are welcome features with the hot summer days we’ve been experiencing in Winnipeg. The soft touch plastics on the dash feel great including those on the padded arm rests. Piano black trim gives the interior of the Kia Soul an upgraded classy look.

The Infiniti audio system with cool disc shaped speakers looked pretty neat as well. I kind of felt like a DJ rather than a driver with a “flying saucer” styled tweeter in the middle of the front dash board. The panoramic sunroof opens up beautifully and for Manitoba summers, the sun can shine for both front and rear passengers.

Powering the 2014 Kia Soul SX Luxury edition is a 2.0L inline 4-cylinder DOHC engine providing 164hp and 151lb-ft torque. Energuide fuel efficiency is rated at 8.8L/100kms in the city and 6.5L/100kms on the highway.

The Kia Soul comes in equally colourful names such as Inferno Red, Polar White, Alien Green and Fathom Blue.

Base price as tested for the 2014 Kia Soul SX Luxury model is $27,195. Add taxes ($100) and freight ($1665), total price of the media tester is $28,960.

All photos & articles available online!

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

FilipinoJournal. com

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

Senator Tobias Enverga, Jr. Visits Edmonton

T

he visit of Senator Tobias Enverga, Jr. surprised the Quezonian Club of Edmonton when they received an invitation to join in the information session at St. Andrew Catholic Church Hall last Saturday August 30, 2014.

Hosted by the Couple for Christ (CFC) through the coordinated effort of Greg Parillas, National Director of CFC Canada, Senator Enverga lives and resides in Toronto and who originally hails from Lucena City, Province of Quezon. He is the first Filipino to become senator appointed by Stephen Harper, Prime Minister of Canada.

His involvement as a community leader in Toronto are numerous to mention; but notably he is also first Filipino

elected as member Catholic Trustee in Toronto. The evening with Enverga highlights his role as Senator and in the open forum he tackled question ranging from temporary foreign workers (TFW), live-in-caregiver program, Christian values and leadership of Filipinos. As Filipino-Canadian senator, he is the eyes, the ears and the voice of the Filipinos in Ottawa. He encouraged Filipinos to get involved in politics and join in the democratic process in building Canada. This is the first time Enverga and his family visited Edmonton and promised to be back in the near future. the Quezonian Club of Edmonton will coordinate with his office in his forthcoming visit as guest of the Club.

Senator Tobias Enverga, Jr. and his wife Rosemer.

Couples for Christ members with the Senator.

Opening Prayers.

Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

11

12

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

All photos & articles available online!

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014

August 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

13

14

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

All photos & articles available online!

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014

August 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

15

Mike's 40th birthday & housewarming Mike & Carmie Delisle celebrated Mike's 40th birthday and a house blessing of their brand new house in Ellerslie at the same time. Invited relatives and friends enjoyed their hospitality at their new abode.

Congratulations Mike and Carmie.

Mercan Recruit Ltd. Mercan has successfully brought 25,000 individuals to Canada Since 1989 and assisted them in obtaining permanent residency.

The founder and President, Mr. Jerome Morgan (R415983) and TFW Recruitment and Immigration Projects Manager, Marjorie Quintos (R507150) are accredited members of the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council, and Ms. Valerie Marcas, Is a member of Quebec Bar, Canadian Bar Association and the Quebec Immigration Lawyers Association.

NEW CHANGES You could qualify to become a Permanent Resident...

Permanent Residency Programs:  Federal Skilled Trades Program  Federal Skilled Worker Program  Canadian Experience Class  Provincial Nominee Program Employer Services:  Recruitment and Selection  Labour Market Opinion  Work Permit Renewals  Open Work Permit/Spousal Visa  Student Visa

CALL US FOR FREE CONSULTATION 18553381510 Mercan Recruit Ltd.

840, 10117 Jasper Avenue, Edmonton, AB T5J 1W8 Tel No. (780) 638 1510

www.mercanrecruit.com Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

Join the Filipino Journal Fan Page today!

Follow us on

www.facebook.com/FilipinoJournal

We're on Twitter!

Follow us on Twitter and we'll follow you right back!

www.twitter.com/FilipinoJournal

16

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

Truly, it’s more fun in the Philippines Tacloban then Cebu. Here are some things I don’t experience abroad that I just realized I have missed all these years.

A maple-coated Filipino Heart

by Erlinda

Dolly Tan

erlindatan@yahoo.com

I have lived outside of the Philippines the last six years. I think I’m done with the transition stage of migration, they say the hardest part is the first three years.

Today when I visit my homeland, I am amused at many things – things I didn’t notice before. I am writing this article somewhere at the middle of Cebu City downtown. This is my third island stop over, from Manila to

• One morning I went early to Robinsons Mall. I lined up and waited. Before the door opened at 10 a.m., they played the National Anthem. Wow! I love the patriotic spirit of the Filipino people! Without hesitation, I put my hand on my chest.

• At the mall, I heard some salesgirls with a very malambing tone inviting people to go in and buy. “Ma’am, bili na po kayo…” is something you don’t hear abroad. They stand at the doorstep of the store alluring customers to go in. We don’t see that in Canada.

• Then, you hear OPM (original Pilipino music) being played on the radio and you realize how beautiful it is. Something you

is absolute. No tax. Well, you think so but actually it’s add-on.

• You don’t clean up after eating at the food court or at any food chain. Somebody will clean the table for you. At first I said – not a good thing. But then, it means jobs, additional jobs for many unemployed. Well, whichever way you look at it, I respect your opinion.

• Security guards. Oh, they’re everywhere. They open the door for you, help you drive out and in of an establishment, they greet you good morning and good afternoon. I feel special.

• Uniform. Everyone is wearing school uniform and office uniform. I love that. I worked for a government office in Cebu before and I miss wearing uniform. The only thing is, everyone knows which office you belong to. It’s an identity of some sort, like an ID card. When I was

in university, the color of our neck tie signified what course we were taking up.

• Labor is cheap. At ordinary salons, manicure is $2, pedicure is $2. You are stunned at how cheap it is knowing that in Canada, the cheapest is $20. I gave the girl a $3 tip. The tip was now more expensive than the product.

• My mother is a Senior Citizen.

Anywhere, she gets a 20% discount. At a hotel, restaurant, drug store, movie house, etc. I agree, the elderly deserves all the love this world can give.

And the list goes on, I can continue writing.

Canadians on the facts about the province; and to extend invitations to visit the province.

The newly-formed association will have its next meeting on September 13, 2014 as five of endangered sea turtles. (Saturday) at the residence of Dr. Lush forests abound with more and Mrs. Tumbagahon. Among the than 100 species of birds.

The ancient Palaweños had a kind of writing complete with a set of alphabet. The natives then have a form of self government under the normal jurisdiction of the Sultanate of Sulu.

Now a group of Palaweños in Canada led by Jose Palao Macolor, Alonzo M. Dagot and Ian Barroma decided to form an association known as 'Palawan (Palawenos) Association of Alberta'.

The group’s objectives are to have common bond amongst former Palawan residents; to promote cultural identity; to educate

agenda is the preparation of their first ever Christmas Party.

didn’t appreciate before.

• I smiled at my fist sight of a lizard crawling at the ceiling.

Believe me, I missed that too! We don’t have lizards in Canada. In the Philippines, they are members of the household.

• Believe me, some stores still use ‘old school’ receipt with carbon paper. They ask you to write your name and affix your signature.

They said it’s a requirement from BIR (Bureau of Internal Revenue). Well, I enjoyed doing that! It was like being asked for an autograph.

• One Sunday morning, I woke up at 5 a.m. to the sound of a church mass being broadcast on a loud speaker. Our place is close to the Catholic church, that’s why. I find this very Filipino. I went back to sleep thinking – yeah right, I’m home and it’s a nice feeling.

• When paying at the counter, you are surprised that the total amount

Hitting the Mark in Alberta

A New Association is Born

by Jose Macolor

F

or Filipinos back home, the province of Palawan is synonymous with underground rivers and coral reefs. Ecologists and environment advocates consider Palawan as the Philippines' last ecological frontier. Meanwhile, tourists and other foreign visitors keep on coming to the capital city of Puerto Princesa and the province’s splendid beaches and resorts.

But do you know that the name of the province is believed to have originated from the Chinese word Palao-yu, meaning "beautiful safe harbor"? Another origin is the Spanish word Paragua, meaning umbrella, as they say the map of Palawan looks like an umbrella.

Palawan is the largest province in the Philippines in terms of land area. The island stretches from Mindoro to Borneo. It is home to the Tubbataha National Marine Park and the Puerto Princesa Subteranean River, which have been declared among the UNESCO world heritage sites.

A first-timer in the island may be delighted upon hearing dozens of different local dialects spoken by numerous indigenous gatherer hunter groups. A few decades ago, the most widely spoken was Cuyonon as spoken by the natives of Cuyo Island. During the Spanish

and American regimes, it gained prominence as a trade language status enjoyed by the people of Cuyo.

Palawan is the most sparsely populated region in the country.

The northern part of the island is blessed with crystal clear waters, pristine beaches and a wealth of flora and fauna. It is here where the municipalities of El Nido and Taytay are located, home to lovely EL NIDO resorts.

The coast of the island boasts of spectacular ancient limestone cliffs towering over marine sanctuaries. The offshore areas are teeming with innumerable species of tropical fish and coral as well

They say, absence makes the heart grow fonder. True.

If I didn’t leave the country, I wouldn’t have appreciated these things. If I didn’t live overseas, I wouldn’t have realized that – truly, it’s more fun in the Philippines.

Calling all former Palawan residents, please contact Jose Macolor 780 - 440 - 4134, 780 855 - 3441.

Ladies Palawan includes T. Barroma, C. Timbancaya, J, dela Torre, Baby A. Estrada, and Lea Tumbagahan from Edmonton.

The Men of Palawenos in Edmonton.

All photos & articles available online!

Jose "Joe" Macolor(in the middle) with the group of Palawenos.

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

17

Message from Naresh Bhardwaj - MLA for Edmonton-Ellerslie

MLA Bhardwaj joins in Celebration of Heritage Day

O

n Monday, August 4 2014, I had the opportunity to attend Heritage Days at Hawrelak Park with over 90 cultural groups, a fabulous celebration of our unique and diversified cultures here in Edmonton.

I enjoyed the culinary wonders of many of our cultures living here in the constituency of EdmontonEllerslie, from the Fiji’s , India, Philippines, China, Columbia, to name just a few.

The entertainment was spectacular with dancing and singing, all dressed in authentic costumes from all corners of the world.

It confirms for me that a celebration such as Heritage Days is another block in building a strong community, through understanding and enjoying each other’s culture.

Donor Clinic – The greatest gift that we can give!

The Millwoods Society for the Retired and Semi-retired hosted a seminar in my constituency of Edmonton-Ellerslie on the importance of organ donation in our province and I was honored to be part of the clinic.

It was noted that our Province and Country has dropped significantly in organ donations, and although we have made strides changing the way in which organs and tissues are

donated, we still must continue to work hard to change awareness.

In 2014 the new Alberta Organ and Tissue Donation Registry was launched, allowing Albertans to register their consent to donate their tissues and organs, in the hope of increasing the identification of suitable donors. Right now there are more than 500 Albertans waiting for an organ transplant., and many more waiting for tissues. If you have any questions about organ and tissue donation, or would like assistance registering for the program, please feel free to contact my constituency office at 780-414-2000.

An integral component of building a strong community is by taking part in special events. I make every effort possible to attend all local events in Edmonton-Ellerslie Constituency., and keep in touch will

all residential concerns.

As the MLA for EdmontonEllerslie, I am always available to assist constituents. If you have any questions or concerns, I can be

reached in my constituency office at 780-414-2000, or my Legislature office at 780-644-3845. Also, please subscribe to my E newsletter at http:// bhardwaj.mypcmla.ca/.

Quezonian Club of Edmonton Enjoys Summer Picnic in a Park

O

nce again Quezonian Club of Edmonton enjoyed summer by frolicking under the shade and sun bathing in open air with gusto. Members enjoyed the potluck dishes for everyone to savour. "Ginataan dishes, tamban ginanga, pakbet, chicken adobo, at ibapa" were just some of the delicacies served.

Jimmy Villamayor, president, promised to do more projects for the Quezonian in the future. A Christmas party is scheduled on Saturday, November 15, 2014 at Rolymie Bakery & Restaurant, Come and join us in this forthcoming event.

2014 Edmonton ANCOP Walk

E

ven with a slight chill in the early morning hours, the sky eventually opened up with bright blue clouds and warm sun rays to welcome the 11th Edmonton ANCOP Walk at the Millwoods Park last Saturday, August 23, 2014.

ANCOP (short for ANswering the Cry Of the Poor), is the ministry of Couples For Christ that answers one of CFC’s 2 pronged mission: Building the Church of the Poor. By raising funds to help build decent housing or sponsor a child’s education, ANCOP has brought awareness to the marginalized in the Philippines, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and India.

The annual ANCOP Walk attracted some 300 plus walkers from every age range, who either registered online or walked into the Millwoods Park. Clad with the ANCOP Jade colored T Shirt for the year, they walked side by side with other members of the Family ministries of the community: ie. Kids for Christ (KFC), Youth for Christ (YFC), Singles for Christ (SFC), Handmaids of the Lord (HOLD), Servants of the Lord (SOLD) and Migrant Workers (MWM).

The enthusiastic emcees were Katrina Cerin and Kleah Zara, both active members of SFC and YFC respectively. They, as well as another YFC member, Arvin John Amo, shared their humbling experiences during their respective immersion in ANCOP- sponsored communities in the Philippines. It is a credit to their immersion that ANCOP’s credibility is intact. Every

year, more and more YFC and SFC members are encouraged to see and experience for themselves, the fruits of their fundraising campaign in the communities they helped build.

Edmonton Area Director, Manny Cerin, kicked off the festivities with his welcome remarks. Apart from announcing that the 11Th Annual ANCOP walk was officially open, he also thanked the crowd for helping CFC build homes and communities; for helping send children to school.

More than the financial aid, he thanked everyone for helping restore the lives and restore the dignity of the poor.

It was the turn of the new ANCOP chair, Don Villaflor, to thank the crowd for their unwavering support. Their generous contribution has built over 2,500 homes and sent

Let's get social

over 2,000 children to school. The walk is global and that particular day, the same ANCOP Walk was happening in 13 other cities including Calgary, Fort McMurray, Lethbridge, Ottawa and Victoria. The week before, August 16, Winnipeg had over 600 walkers and raised over $60,000.00.

The day after, August 24, ANCOP Walks are scheduled in Toronto, Regina, Vancouver, Saskatoon and Yellowknife. Every year, Edmonton’s goal is to raise enough money for the building of at least 10 homes equivalent to $30,000. Currently, the cost to build a home is $3,000 and the cost for a child’s education is $384 a year or $32 a month.

The crowd then burst into applause as Father Jim Corrigan greeted everyone with his Tagalog “Magandang Umaga po sa inyong

lahat” (Good Morning to all of you) and his “Pagpalain nawa kayo ng Diyos”(May God bless you). He blessed the young people who have been witnessed to, by their parents and thanked CFC for their service and their love for the poor. He ended his short blessing with a caution: “We are blessed as Catholics. As such, we have a responsibility to share our blessings. I am grateful to witness WITH you. “ Some safety tips and precautions were covered by North Chapter Head, Eva Aquino before some stretching exercises were led by YFC’s Carlo Cortez and Monica Cerin.

Then, it was on to at least 2 laps of the whole 4 hectare lot of Millwoods Park amidst a rollicking send off by the CFC Music Ministry.

They belted out songs of praise and worship while awaiting the return of more than 300 walkers. The walkers carried their banners and cut outs of various ANCOP projects’ slogans.

With more energy to burn, YFC members showed off their award winning dance number which won in the recent National YFC Conference Competition at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver, B.C. Not to be outdone, CFC members followed it up with their own “Rise Up”, the welcome dance in the recent CFC Regional Conference held in Edmonton in July 2014.

As a fitting gesture of gratitude, the National Director of CFC Canada, Greg Parillas, thanked one of ANCOP’s major sponsors since 2011, Dolce Vita Homes. This year alone, Dolce Vita Homes donated $5,000 to

FilipinoJournal. com

ANCOP. Mr. Maurizio Naccarato, VP for Sales and Marketing of Dolce vita Homes, came and joined the walk together with his wife Bettina Alba, daughter Elisha Naccarato and grandson Xavier Sarmiento.

After learning that a house will cost $3,000 to build, Mr. Naccarato was so touched that he promptly added $1,000 to make sure that the initial $5,000 donation would be able to build 2 homes.

To recap the day’s efforts, Greg Parillas also reported that the initial accounting showed that around $28,000.00 in registration fees and donations were collected so far, assuring us of 93% achievement of this year’s goal. Knowing the fundraising history in Edmonton, we are truly well on our way to achieving 100% by year end. Most important of all is the fact that we are truly answering the cry of the poor first acknowledged by now Saint, (Pope) John the XX111 in Vatican II. “Building the church of the poor is not optional but essential in one’s faith life and renewal of the Church.”

For further information about the ANCOP Walk, please visit its website at: www.ancopcanada.ca.

Or call the following in Edmonton for immediate assistance: Don Villaflor at (780) 508-6758 or Manny Cerin at (780) 951-6152.

Contributed by: Rey and Marizza Diaz, CFC Head of the Migrant Workers Office in Edmonton, Alberta

18

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

Horoscope Hence, you will be able to carrying out an affair, with seriousness. If you are involved with someone for pleasure, this time will be favorable and enjoyable for you. This is a good time to get attracted to the opposite sex. In short, the starting phase is predicted to be good for you. Chances for your marriage are arising.

Beginning of this period is not very favorable for you, so whatever you do try to do it with patience. You can read a book related to religion or society issues in the middle of the period. Time is also favorable in terms of money and finances.

You will get success in your work. Benefits are strongly foreseen during the end of the week.

You will be full of enthusiasm in the beginning of the week.

Increase in the amenities is foreseen. Your plans will be successful. Happiness will also prevail in the private life.

Be cautious in your domestic issues during the middle of the week. Take care while driving in weekend.

Starting days of the period might give some financial worries or you may remain upset due to the relatives. You might think of your health in the middle of the period, tensions related to family might also arise. It will be better to save yourself from getting depressed. Weekend is coming with good results.

This is a good time to start new relations. You are likely to spend pleasant and romantic moments with your beloved; you may also take him/her for an outing. Things will get accomplished if they are related to love. However, this is not a very favorable time for married couples.

Beginning of this period will be favorable for you. You will get benefit from the partnership. Your life partner will support you. But you may face some problems in your computer or laptop in the middle of the week. There is need of attentiveness in the financial matters.

The maximum part of the period is favorable for you but there can be some distractions due to the progeny or your loved one.

There will be better situations in the middle of the period and you will be happy. Success is foreseen in work. You will spend some precious time with your life partner.

This period will give you mixed results. You can be agile or emotional in the beginning of the period. Although there will be good results in other issues. Avoid unwanted expenses while controlling your voice. It will be auspicious to do this.

Weekend will also give favorable results.

Travelling is foreseen in the beginning of this period. These trips can be religious or long distant. Your father can help you financially. You will get success in almost all the tasks, during the middle of the week. You will experiment something new in your working style. Be a little cautious for every issue in the weekend.

You are ready to do hard work in the beginning of the week, so success will come natural. But don’t forget to take care of your family due to work. Some problems are possible in your married or love life during the middle of the week. This period will give good results.

A beneficial travelling is possible during the beginning of the weekend. Brothers and friends will be supportive during this time. However, you might feel upset during the middle of the week for buying some household goods. Success is assured in the weekend. You will be successful in defeating enemies.

Pleasurable time can be spent with partner.

Unwanted expenses can happen in the beginning of the period.

Avoid unnecessary travelling during this time. Middle of the period is favorable for online shopping. You will be benefitted by the luxuries. You will have to control your behavior in case of voice and wealth.

PAHALANG 1 Hawak 6 Irap 11 PBA courtside reporter 12 Korona ng papa 13 Naloko 15 Gusto 16 Doktrina 17 Salamat: sa wikang Nippongo 19 x 20 R_____: parte ng mata 21 Ikaginhawa

PABABA 24 Pangalan ng babae 26 Los Commandos 28 Nilinis ang lupa 30 Satsat pag inulit 31 Taas 32 Prutas na makatas 34 Ibigay sa akin 36 Hintayin: Ingles 37 Hopia 38 Awit

1 Pagkaing pambata 2 Bungkal 3 Instrumentong pang musika 4 Palayaw ng lalake 5 Gilalas 6 Senyas sa taguan 7 Tubos 8 Mapipitas 9 Inis 10 Bigla 14 Tagapagmana 18 Katutubo

21 Isama 22 Pangalan ng babae 23 Diyos 24 Butas sa bahagi ng sahig na kawayan 25 Nakakatulad 26 Hambal 27 Pangalan ng lalake 29 Panahon 30 Lupa sa Ingles: pabaligtad na basa 33 Habag 35 Art Space

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

All photos & articles available online!

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!

5 3 1

3 6

4 2

3 1 8 5

8 6 4 2 3

7 2

4

5 7

7 1

4 9 5

(c) Daily Sudoku Ltd 2014. All rights reserved.

Calgary, Edmonton, Red Deer & Fort McMurray

Daily Sudoku: Wed Solutions for 5-Mar-2014 Palaisipan

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

FilipinoJournal. com

http://www.dailysudoku.com/

August 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Filipina beauty crowned Classic Mrs. Asia International Global 2014

19

Derek Ramsay admits marrying Mary Christine Jolly and having a son Derek Ramsay admitted that he married Mary Christine Jolly in 2002 and he had an 11-year-old son named Austin Gabriel Ramsay.

But Derek said that he knew that their marriage is not valid for various reasons. He also denied the accusation of Mary Christine in her complaint to the actor’s violation in the Anti-Violence Against Women and Children Act. He and his lawyer, Atty. Joji Alonso, already submitted his counter affidavit in the Makati

City Prosecutor’s Office against Mary Christine’s allegations.

He said that it was in the early part of August 2011 when he confirmed that Austin is indeed his son. Since then, he wanted to know his son first and keep his relationship with him in private.

Austin was only 8-year-old boy and he would not be able to comprehend the possible media curiosity especially he was new to the country that time and about to pursue his education here.

Dennis Roldan convicted of kidnapping 3-year-old boy

A

nother Filipina beauty to win the title, besting 14 other queen stands out after finalists in the said competition. being crowned Classic In 2000, she was named Mrs. Mrs. Asia International Global Philippines-Germany, and in 2013, 2014. she was chosen as Magnificent Joyce Peñas Pilarsky, who Women Icon Philippines. is also a fashion designer, won The Mrs. Asia International the beauty pageant at the Menara Pageant is an annual beauty and PGRM Dewan Wawasan in Kuala personality competition, MAIP Lumpur, Malaysia. looks for the true essence of a Pilarsky is the first Pinay married yet empowered woman.

Let's get social

T

he Pasig Regional Trial Court has found former congressman and actor Dennis Roldan guilty of kidnapping of a FilipinoChinese boy in 2005.

Judge Rolando Mislang of Pasig City RTC Branch 167 ruled that Roldan and two others were guilty of the kidnapping of three-year-old Kenshi Yu. Dennis Roldan, the father of PBB All In Exhousemate Michele Gumabao, has been sentenced to life imprisonment and was ordered detention at the New Bilibid Prison in Muntinlupa City.

FilipinoJournal. com

20

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

Greetings: Beyond Control The usual daily greetings: Hi! Hello!

What’s up?

How are doing?

How are you today?

Hey, you! What can we do?

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.

The Usual Responses: Hello! Hi! I’m good!

Nice!

Awesome!

Same old!

There’s nothing we can do!

Two sides of the coin are being reflected in this scenario.

The obscure side—cliché; and the illuminating side—sincere.

Connotations: Greetings for greeting’s sake. Such gestures doesn’t mean something to the

greeters. That conveys no sensible message on the part of the greeted person. While on the other hand, a Sympathetic greetings can be categorized as one of the meaningful expressions of concerns from one to the other. You can really feel an authentic spirit of brotherhood and an atmosphere of genuine camaderie when a person greeting you has the heart-filled with empathy. Sincerity is the prize—Sincerity by the way is derived from the two Latin words sine cera which mean without mask. It is conspicuously quite comforting to find a person who can always be honest in all his dealings with others. A kind of person who can courageously compliment another person; who can criticize others constructively; who can give credit where credit is due devoid

of jealousy. In this sense, the real face has to be barely displayed regardless whoever is in front of him: of the clan, race, and the status where he belongs in the society.

For as almost all of us know, a person who is wearing mask is disguising or in a broader sense, a hypocrite person. This person is known for accommodating mental reservation. A person who can manage to tell insulting words to another person. For instance, “Oh my… you’re so pretty! You look like a doll!” Yet, the moment he turns his back, he can immediately whisper to himself: “Pretty like a witch’s doll!” Another example: “Oh my… you smell like a rose (analogously referring to a Rose Vinegar or Sukang Paumbong in the Philippines), that means, smells

bad or stinky. Huh, isn’t it the kinds of greetings-filled-with mental reservations or hypocrisies?

A reminder and another lesson to learn, when we are greeting, let’s make sure to have our salutations coupled with politeness and sincerity. Let’s all abhor hypocrisy.

Let’s all remove our masks. Let’s all try to be genuine. Let’s make sure that our greetings is spiritlifting and personally-transforming.

Let’s not be controlled by our bad habits and attitudes; but of courtesy and respect.

Let’s not be controlled by the occasions of antipathy; but of empathy.

Remember, it is good to be nice; but it is always nice to be authentically good.

We can always manage! This is not beyond our control!

The End of Summer/Citizenship

by Miya Villarena A native of Quezon City, Miya Villarena is a current student at the University of Alberta.

Her hobbies include drawing, writing, and playing chess, as well as keeping in touch with her Filipino heritage.

Typing this article from my desk, I realize that in a few days school will resume for many people. For others, it will just be another hectic day in life: paying bills, staying awake at work, or catching the latest appointment.

Having just finished the first year of university (and survived), I eagerly look forward to returning.

However, I cannot simply pick up the notebooks, pens, and textbooks without presenting an article I have been waiting to share with all of you.

Last month, on July 9, I participated in the official

Canadian Citizenship ceremony at Stanley Milner Library, along with about a hundred other people.

Since immigrating to Canada five years ago, I always prayed that I too, would become a citizen of this prosperous and beautiful country. I have met and shared memories with so many people who I am proud to call friends. I have also spent my teenage life here – and have matured as well, ever since the day I set foot on the snow-covered ground of the Edmonton International Airport.

To the readers who have been following me since Day 1 of my articles in The Filipino Journal, remember my first entry? I can’t believe how far I’ve come since then. Most of you may have pieced my journey here in Canada together (and some of my past) from those entries, but it is far from being over. In fact, I have a feeling it has only truly begun.

One can argue that I slowly became Canadian when I started living here, but nothing gets more official than government recognition in the eyes of the law.

As I stood in line with other people – families and individuals alike – waiting to receive the certificates that would seal their identity, I surmised that they all had varying reasons for moving to Canada. Was it opportunity?

Perhaps it was freedom of religion. Or could it have been education?

One thing was certain: no matter what reasons everyone in the room had, they were eager to step up on the stage and claim

All photos & articles available online!

their new Canadian identity for themselves. The smiles caught on camera betrayed the excitement of the former immigrants – now citizens – who had just gone through the rite of passage they had dreamt of for years.

I was afraid to leave home in 2009. I wasn’t sure if I could fit into society or make new friends. But over the years, I’ve realized that you do not have to fit in, necessarily. Of course, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t adapt to your new home and become part of the fabric that builds its identity. That is quite important, and loyalty to Canadian values is definitely a must. However, you do not have to assimilate completely into the Western way of life. There are many valuable aspects of Filipino culture that I still (and always will) retain, and that makes me who I am today.

Because I retained these values, I gained many friends who share the same beliefs, aspirations, and visions as me, and I am thankful I met them.

Our citizenship judge mentioned that Canada “is a nation of volunteers”. Today, I can’t count on one hand how many opportunities I have had to serve other people in the community. To me, volunteering is not a way to build up one’s resume. Rather, it is an avenue to meet other people and discover the things which matter to you. For me, things like art and writing drive me to share joy to other people. Despite the fact that I am in neuroscience, my career interests do not stop

FilipinoJournal. com

be from partaking in artistic endeavors such as painting and music, or political and personal ventures like my work here as a writer.

To my readers who were former immigrants such as myself, what does being Canadian mean to you? Is it something you claim with pride, or is it something you take for granted?

To those who have yet to become citizens, persevere. Your moment will come to you soon, and when it does, be prepared to embrace this country and its people, as they will embrace you back and welcome you with open arms.

The Philippines is where I was born and raised. It set the stage for my growth into an adult. In other words, it was the springboard of my long journey. Canada, on the other hand, was the drive that set me off that springboard and into the real world. I owe it to both my motherland and Canada, for making me the person that I am, and the person that I eventually want to be. I still have much to learn, discover, and apply to my life. Without God, my family, and friends, I would not have enjoyed my stay here. As summer draws to a close, I think being a citizen entails a bigger responsibility than I was a permanent resident: obeying the law, loyalty to the government of Canada, and respect for my fellow citizens will mean more to me than ever before.

Ultimately, the gift of Canadian citizenship is something I intend to cherish it for as long as I live.

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

August 2014

by Gem & Lita Anis

The Cotswolds, England's prettiest countryside

H

aving been to London so many times we consider ourselves as English diehard tourists never getting tired returning to this one of the world's leading global cities. However, on our most recent trip we opt to stay away from the bustling city of London to spend a relaxing day at the picturesque English countryside called the Cotswolds.

The best way to explore the Cotswolds is by car. From the capital city of London travel west through the M4 and M40 motorways. It takes about an hour and fifty minutes to negotiate the 118.5 kms. driving past Oxford City centre, Witney Market Square and then Burford, one of the Cotswolds' towns aside from Bourton-onthe-Water, Cirencester, Chipping Camden, and Stow-on-the-Wold.

Shown in miles the distance from a town to the next is indicated in the road signs. And don't forget: in England you drive on the left hand side of the road!

Lying mainly within the counties of Gloucestershire and Oxfordshire, England, are limestone hills called the "Cotswolds", designated as an area of Outstanding National Beauty, with its rolling hills, attractive small towns and idyllic villages built of underlying Cotswold stones (a yellow oolitic limestone). Still remaining affluent the area became wealthy and prosperous because of the wool trade during the Middle Ages.

Attractively located on the

willow-fringed River Windrush, the small mediveal town of Burford is noted for its long history of hospitality from its community of 1,000 residents. In 2009 Burford has been voted 6th in the Forbes Magazine's list of "Europe's Most Idyllic Place to Live". Sloping gently down to the river, High Street, its main street, is lined with old houses, ancient cottages, exclusive shops and galleries, antique stores, old pubs and tea/ coffee shops all of which seem not to have changed since the old times.

One of the galleries that fascinated us is the Burford Woodcraft housed in an old building of Cotswold stones. Specializing in wood the gallery produces high quality pieces illustrating the natural beauty and versatility of the wood be it a simple bookmark or a chest of drawers.

Located also at High Street is the Tolsey Museum quartered in the early Tudor market/court house, a black and white timber building erected on stone pillars. It was once the meeting place for rich wool merchants who also paid their tolls or taxes during the medieval period. The museum houses a wide ranging collection of local artefacts depicting the social and industrial culture of the Oxfordshire town and surrounding area. Exhibits include town maces, seals and charters of the town guilds along with items recalling the trades that flourished here during the bygone days of stone-quarrying, rope making, bell-founding, brewing, leatherworking, and clarinet making.

Scenic English Countryside

There's also a doll's house which depicts the period of Jane Austen, the famous English romantic novelist.

Also a must-see in Burford is the magnificent St. John the Baptist Church, one of England's thousand best and oldest churches, another sign of bygone wealth based on wool.

A bustling town, Cirencester often referred to as the "Capital of the Cotswolds" was once the most important place in Britain second only to London during the Roman times.

Chipping Camden is a lovely small market town famous for its elegant terraced High Street lined with a succession of ancient houses dating back from the 14th to the 17th century. The Church of St. James is the most impressive in the area. Stow-on-the-Wold, the highest town in the Cotswolds being situated on top of a hill boasts a vast square surrounded by imposing honey-coloured houses.

Possibly the prettiest of the Costwolds' villages with its many low arched stone bridges, Bourtonon-the-Water is the known for its scenic High Street bordered by long wide greens and the River Windrush that runs through them. The arched bridges have led to Bourton-on-theWater being called the "Venice of the Cotswolds".

A trip to the Cotswolds gives us the surreal feel of a journey back in time - a long long time from the Middle Ages.

Gem & Lita at High Street, Burford

Bourbon-on-the-Water

Rizalenos of Teresa Rizal in Edmonton Venerate Patron Saint Rosa de Lima

T

he town folks of Teresa, Rizal in Edmonton celebrated the feast of their patron Santa Rosa de Lima last Saturday, August 23, 2014 at Laurier Park in the form of adoration and prayers followed by a procession venerating the image of Santa Rosa de Lima.

The patroness of Latin America and Philippines and first saint born in the Americas,.Santa Rosa de Lima is considered the saint of indigenous people of Americas.

The saint was venerated and processioned in the park with music while being followed by the devotees. The Berdon families initiated this festival which is now running on its third year.

Families brought food and drinks for everyone to enjoy.

Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

21

22

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

All photos & articles available online!

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014

August 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Let's get social

FilipinoJournal. com

23

24

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

All photos & articles available online!

FilipinoJournal. com

August 2014