December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012 • Volume 25, Number 24
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Celebrating First Christmas in Canada Publications Mail Agreement 40032612
Page 12► Moments with Santa at The Hudson’s Bay Company (HBC). HBC is Canada’s oldest retail company and The Bay Downtown and the Paddlewheel Restaurant presented Paskuhan 2011 for over 50 bagong dating families. The Filipino Journal and the Rosalinda Natividad-Cantiveros Foundation hosted over 180 adults and children with a special surprise visit by Santa Claus himself. Santa gave every child a Christmas present followed by Christmas care packages and gifts to all families, and volunteers in attendance. More “Bagong Dating” events are planned for 2012, so stay tuned to The Filipino Journal.
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Richardson International Airport opens to the public
A
t long last, after many months of waiting and anticipation, the newly built Winnipeg James Armstrong Richardson International Airport opens to the public, “Consultation has been key throughout this project and today
marks a significant milestone for all our stakeholders,” said Barry Rempel, President & CEO of Winnipeg Airport Authority Inc. “We are very pleased today by delivering exciting new facilities which will meet the needs of our community for decades to come.”
“Congratulations to Winnipeg Airports Authority on the opening of Canada’s newest and greenest airport,” said Steven Fletcher, MP for CharleswoodSt.James-Assiniboia & Minister of State (Tranasport). “Having such a connection to the global
economy and the ability to move people and goods will proprel future opportunities within our community. Other guests include Art Mauro, former Premier Gary Filmon and his wife, Janice. Other dignitaries, airline officials, some
local Winnipeggers, especially our kababayans, and representatives of the city of Winnipeg attended the opening. Shelly Grover was the 1st MP to travel bound for Maritimes. First arriving and departing crews and passengers were provided with memorabilia.
Canadian-Filipinos who went to witness the official opening of the airport, from l to r: Nita Solomon, Prosy Delima, Esther Gervacio and Tessie Ferrer. Dan, Jayjay, Mac, Anna (on her way to her holiday in Singapore), Belinda, Ace and Emmie.
The Westjet service personnel with pasengers.
Vicky Dominguez and Cora Cortez with one of the officials of the Winnipeg Airport Authority Inc.
Air CanadaConcierge/VIP Service, Deborah Anne de Sousa, Janice Hudson, John Ticzon, William McGhie, Conrad Hill and Glenn Rusnak.
Filipino valet staff: Arnold Panganiban, Romulo Alarcio, Jun Papa and Chester Gonzales.
The Ribbon cutting ceremony with MP Stephen Fletcher, Barry Rempel, Mayor Sam Katz, Art Mauro and other officials and guests.
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by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com
Santa Claus and Rudolph Are in Town (Of Course! It’s Christmas) (On Distinguishing Reality from Fantasy yet Still Maintaining the Excitement)
there taken. He could still tell to that Santa what he wishes (it’s just like sharing what the child wants to a respectable elderly). We could still have an image or a stuff toy of Santa displayed in the house…just like how he has pictures and toy figures of Star Wars characters, Transformers robots, Superman, Spider-Man, and other literary and movie characters. Even though my kid knows that Chewbacca, R2-D2, and Jar Jar Binks are just characters from Star Wars, he still gets excited to see them when he plays with his toys and watch the films. Every time he watches Optimus Prime, Shockwave, Bumblebee transform, he could still get charged up by this. These characters need not be real just to be able to elicit awe and excitement. What should count more are the positive aspects these characters represent. This is the same with the concept of Santa Claus, Rudolph, Mr. Snowman, and other characters of Christmas. They don’t need to be “real” in the eyes of the child to be able to excite him and make him wish for good things during Christmas time or any other time of the year.
A
sense of perception. It retards the development of his ability to separate facts from fiction and fantasy from reality.
Separating Facts from Fiction Even as a child, I have never believed (thanks to my father, who have taught me to be analytical at an early age) that there was an actual Santa Claus who had the magic to be able to be by the Christmas tree of every home during Christmas Eve (omnipresence); the ability to make sleds and reindeer fly (omnipotence); and the ability to see (omnipercipience) and to know (omniscience) if every child is being naughty or nice. Obviously, all these attributes were derived from the concept of the God according to Christianity and other related religions. I wouldn’t let my kid grow up believing something fictional to be real. This is not healthful for the mind. It weakens the child’s
Santa Claus as a Symbol of Giving and Wishing However, I will still introduce to my kid Santa Claus, Rudolph, Mr. Snowman, and other fantastic and mythical characters, not as real-life beings though but only as symbolic characters of Christmas. I will teach my kid to appreciate these characters as symbols of virtues: Santa Claus, as a symbol of giving and wishing; Rudolph, of hard work and learning to gain self-confidence; and Mr. Even Adults As it is with many adults, I Snowman, for resilience and can still get scared by watching positive thinking. horror films without necessarily that werewolves, Oh, you would break the heart of believing your kid for telling him that Santa ghouls, or blood-sucking vampires exist in real life. I can still make is not real, some would say. Christmas wishes, not necessarily Of course, not. More important is because I believe that all these to make my kid develop early in will come true but simply because life a sense of logic and analytical there’s no harm in wishing for thinking and the ability to discern something good and possible, but fact from fiction. He could still within the boundaries of logic and enjoy Christmas; he could still reason. I enjoy watching Harry expect gifts from us; we could Potter, The Lord of the Rings, still go to malls and have his Clash of the Titans, and Star Wars, picture with the Santa character getting lost in the excitement of
coworker asked me if I encourage my kid to believe that Santa Claus is a real being. I said, no. I prefer to discourage children to believe that there is a real Santa Claus roaming around the world on his reindeer-powered sleigh during Christmas Eve to give gifts to (take note!) nice children. (So, sorry, you naughty ones!)
Filipino Journal 7
every interesting scene, despite the knowledge that these are only fantasy-fiction films, not true-tolife stories. Why? Because I am able to separate fact from fiction and reality from fantasy without eliminating the element of fun and imagination. And that’s how I wanted my kid to grow up— logical and analytical but still creative and imaginative.
The Last Leaf In the greater scheme of things, people have the choice to regard Christmas as either a religious festivity or simply a cultural event that highlights the importance of giving, sharing, wishing for good things, and fostering compassion and camaraderie among fellow humans regardless of race and beliefs.
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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Riverview Health Centre 2E Winnipeg’s Multicultural band haLf man haLf eLf’s Unit Staff Christmas Party Mella and Mazur go to the Philippines for a major concert
h
Staff members of RHC’s 2E unit celebrate a Christmas get-together dinner: aLfie, Angie, Veronica, Christa, Arriane, Donna, Sandra, Allan, Michelle; Angela, Amy, Jenna, Tracey, Sheryl, Tim, Yvone, Sonia, Jerry, Katie, Loni, Miriam, Merna, Leona, Irene, and Gemma.
aLf man haLf eLf is aLfie vera mella’s Winnipeg reincarnation of his university-days band Half Life Half Death back in the Philippines. Now consisting of an eclectic mix of classical, bluegrass, folk, new wave, and metal-influenced musicians: Jhun Villanueva (12-string guitar), Bertz Nicanor (drumkit), Christine Mazur (violin, cello), Pol Chua (acoustic bass), Dante Gomez (6-string guitar), Janice Bamforth (cajon), Dave Labovich (mandolin, banjo), Phoebe Man (taiko drum), and Doug Knight (bagpipe), the group that started as New Wave has evolved into a fusion of styles. haLf man haLf eLf joined forces on December 16 with two solo artists, punk/ska rocker Sid Strange and singer-songwriter Cassie Hatcher, and performed a fundraising show for Aqua Books at 274 Garry Street. Mella, a columnist and the associate editor of Filipino Journal, befriended the bookstore’s owner Kelly Hughes in 2006 when he first discovered Aqua Books at its former Notre Dame Avenue location. When the band learned that Hughes was seeking performers to help with fundraising events for his troubled “Cultural City Hall,” they agreed to do a concert to help out, since Hughes had supported up-and-coming artists through his programming over the years. The concert was the last for haLf man haLf eLf before Mella with his family and violinist Christine Mazur head out to Metro Manila, Philippines, on January 14,
for a vacation and to perform with Mella’s former band Half Life Half Death at a major reunion concert slated on February 3, at Club Phi at Metrowalk, in Pasig City. This will be Mella’s first visit home since he left the country in 2003 and Mazur’s first time to visit Asia and to perform in the Philippines.. In the Philippine Alternative music scene, Half Life Half Death is regarded as one of the pioneers of Filipino New Wave music, formed in 1988, released a solo album under Viva Records in 1994, gained a significant number of supporters since its formation, and disbanded in 2003 when Mella left the country to immigrate to Canada.
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Half Life Half Death’s Philippine reunion concert party—dubbed as The Evolution of New Wave—is produced primarily by Requiem Rising (music production based in Singapore) and Lilystars Records (Phil.). Supporting the event are The Camerawalls, The Gentle Isolation, and Your Imaginary Friends—three of the Philippines’ prime contemporary Indie Pop bands—and a host of deejays from Mode Zero, NoMixx Bar, and the WXB102 family who will be spinning classic and contemporary New Wave music—whom will include pioneering Philippine DJs George Frederick, Mike Timbol, and Chris Merto.
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
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Filipino Journal 9
Winnipeg Jets Report By Ron Cantiveros
F
innish Flash Returns to Winnipeg It seems like it was only yesterday when I was sitting at home watching the “Finnish Flash,” Teemu Selanne score 76 goals in his rookie season with the Winnipeg Jets in 1992. Many Winnipeg Jets hockey fans have amazing memories during his time in Winnipeg and were especially excited to see him play in Winnipeg one more time. Teemu Selanne now plays for the Anaheim Ducks and was in Winnipeg to the play the Winnipeg Jets. It was an exciting night of watching Selanne during the pregame warm up as he started flipping pucks over the boards. Fans chanted “Teemu, Teemu, Teemu” before the national anthems and Selanne rose to thank and salute the fans at MTS Centre. The Winnipeg Jets won the game 5-3 and Selanne was awarded the third star of the game. In the hearts and minds of fans at the MTS Centre, he was the first, second and third star. The Ducks Corey Perry summed it all up, “It was awesome. He’s a class-act guy and I think they did it right tonight. THey cheered every time he had the puck and they booed everybody else on our team. That’s a special night for him.” At the final buzzer, Selanne was the last to leave the ice but not before throwing several hockey sticks in to the crowd. Winnipeg fans will never forget one of the
brightest spots in Winnipeg Jets history. December Epic Home Stand Continues Midway through their 12game December homestand, the Winnipeg Jets are 6-1 at home, with the only loss against the Washington Capitals in a tight 1-0 loss with Alexander Ovechikin knotching the only goal. Two key Jets wins came against the Bruins, ending a 15-game winning streak and the league leading Minnesota Wild. Other wins include the Coyotes, Devils, Hurricanes and Ducks. The one road loss was a 7-1 thrashing against the Detroit Red Wings. As of December 19th, the Winnipeg Jets are 15-13-4 with 34 points tied for 9th in the Easten Conference with with Ottawa.
Forever grateful to fans in Winnipeg, Selanne threw several sticks into the stands after the game.
Upcoming Games
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Winnipeg Jets presenting video commemorating Selanne’s visit to Winnipeg on the Jumbotron at MTS Centre.
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Evander Kane with a behind the net goal chance against Duck’s Dan Ellis. Photos by: Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal
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Skating Is Back at The Forks
I
t’s time to lace up your skates and head to The Forks. The rest of the amenities, including the snowboard park, toboggan run and snowman lane, are still under construction, but with the help of some snow will be completed soon. Arctic Glacier Winter Park includes fun, family-friendly features: 1.2 kilometres of skating trails directly on The Forks site, an artificially cooled ice surface under the Canopy, an Olympic-sized skating rink near Scotiabank Stage, a toboggan run, an ever expanding snowboard facility professionally designed to thrill and new this year, the Great-West Life Snowman Lane. Skaters can glide their way across the Historic Rail Bridge
skating through a series of snowman of varying shapes and sizes. Skate Rentals are available at Iceland Skate Rentals located adjacent to the skate changing area. Rates are $2.50 for children and seniors and only $4.50 for adults. The skate change area as well as all trails, rinks and the Assiniboine Credit Union River Trail are connected with rubber mats. Arctic Glacier Winter Park is open from now until March, weather permitting. All attractions within Arctic Glacier Winter Park are free. More information on Arctic Glacier Winter Park can be found on our website at www.theforks.com/ agwinterpark
Dr. Rothman
Ice skating rink Under the Canopy at the Forks Market. Photo by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal Archives
Nine-day Christmas dawn masses starts
T
he nine-day dawn masses held in honor of the Virgin started Friday and will last until Christmas Day. The “Simbang Gabi” marked by ringing of church bells at dawn, dates back to 1565, when Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi celebrated the first Feast of the Nativity. During the 16th century, Pope Sixtus V decreed that the dawn masses be held in the Philippines every 16th of December. The practice originated in Mexico when Fray Diego de Soria, prior of the Convent of San Agustin Acolman, asked permission from the Pope to hold Christmas masses for the farmers who wake up very early to work. In attending the “Misa de Aguinaldo” (gift mass), churchgoers offer the gift of sacrifice of waking up before the break of dawn for nine consecutive days to attend the dawn
masses in thanksgiving, as a form of worship, or for a standing petition. Many faithful believe that completing the nine-day masses would mean the granting of a particular favor. The masses end on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, with the “Misa de Gallo” (rooster’s mass) at midnight.
After the mass, the churchgoers partakes of native delicacies sold in stalls outside the church like rice cakes (bibingka), puto bungbong, and suman taken with ginger tea (salabat), coffee or hot chocolate.
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The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
by R. Reis Pagtakhan, LL.B., B.A. (Hons.) rrp@aikins.com
The (not so) Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents (or how the Super Visa is more like Clark Kent)
L
ast month, Citizenship and Immigration Canada announced that it would no longer accept family class sponsorships for parents and grandparents for at least 2 years. To compensate for the freeze on applications, a “Super Visa” was announced. The title “Super Visa” makes it seem like this visa will be able to overcome anything – much like the comic book hero Superman. However, a closer look at the Super Visa makes it look closer
to the socially awkward and clumsy Clark Kent, as portrayed by Christopher Reeve in the old Superman movies. The Super Visa requires Canadian families to provide a written and signed promise of financial support The Super Visa requires visa officers to obtain a written and signed promise of financial support by the family in Canada indicating that the family in Canada will support the parent or
Maligayang Pasko Hugh McFadyen | MLA, Fort Whyte hughmcfadyen@mts.net
grandparent for the stay. Because Super Visas may be granted for up to two years, this will require the family in Canada to prove that they have enough funds to support their parents and grandparents (along with the rest of their own family in Canada) for two years. Canadian families must make a minimum income to bring their parents or grandparents In order to calculate how much money you need to make to bring a parent or grandparent to Canada, individuals looking to bring their parents or grandparents under the a Super Visa must add the number of members of their immediate family to the number of parents or grandparents who are coming. The number of family members is then compared to the Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s minimum necessary income figures. The current figures (which may change in January) are as follows: Minimum Size of Necessary Family Income Unit 1 person $22,229 2 people $27,674 3 people $34,022 4 people $41,307 5 people $46,850 6 people $52,838 7 people $58,827 Each additional person $5,989
What this means is that a married couple with 2 dependent children who are looking to bring one set of parents (2 people) would have a family size of 6. The minimum necessary income for this family is $52,838.
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The Super Visa cannot be used if the parent or grandparent is medically inadmissible Another restriction of the Super Visa is that parents and grandparents must undergo and pass a medical examination done by an approved doctor of Citizenship and Immigration Canada. If a parent or grandparent has a health condition that does not allow entry under immigration law, that parent or grandparent will not be allowed to get a Super Visa. In addition, they will have also already paid for their immigration medical. The Super Visa requires the purchase of private medical insurance
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Under the Super Visa, parents or grandparents must provide satisfactory evidence of private medical insurance from Canadian insurance company. The insurance must be valid for a minimum period of one year from the date of entry. At a minimum, the insurance must:
be insured), no Super Visa would be issued. The Super Visa still requires parents and grandparents to meet “all legislative requirements for a temporary resident visa” Under the Super Visa, parents and grandparents who may have criminal records, may have violated Canadian immigration laws in the past, or may be otherwise inadmissible will not be granted Super Visas. As well, parents and grandparents looking to eventually move here must also still be able to establish “dual intent”. As a result, if the parent or grandparent cannot show that he or she would be willing to return to their home country after the expiry of their Super Visa, the Super Visa can be refused.
1. cover the parent or grandparent for health care, hospitalization and repatriation; 2. provide a minimum of $100,000 coverage; and 3. must be valid for each entry to Canada. It is important to know that the insurance must come from a Canadian company. As a result, parents and grandparents will have to pay Canadian insurance premiums. While it may be cheaper to get health insurance abroad, this will not be allowed unless it is from a Canadian insurance company. Even with a Super Visa, visa officers will still look at: Super Visa insurance is · the parent and grandparent’s ties expensive to the home country, Some immigration lawyers · the purpose of the visit, have looked into the cost of · the person’s family and financial emergency medical insurance situation, and for Super Visas. A quote that · the overall economic and political one immigration lawyer received stability of the home country. from an insurance company was as follows: The Super Visa cannot be used for children Parents or Grandparents ages 41Another restriction of the 60: $148.20 per month Super Visa is that it is only offered Parents or Grandparents ages 61- to parents and grandparents. As 64: $154.80 per month a result, if you are looking to Parents or Grandparents ages 65- bring your parents but also have 69: $183.00 per month younger brothers or sisters abroad, Parents or Grandparents ages 70- the younger brothers and sisters 74: $236.40 per month could not come to Canada under Parents or Grandparents ages 75- the Super Visa and would have to 79: $273.60 per month be left behind unless they qualify Parents or Grandparents ages 80- for their own visa. 84: $358.20 per month Parents or Grandparents ages 85- This Article is prepared for 89: $625.50 per month general information purposes Parents or Grandparents only and is intended to provide ages 90 and above: No coverage comments for readers and friends available. of the Filipino Journal. The On the basis of these rates, a contents should not be viewed as person looking to bring two sets legal advice or opinion. of parents (4 people in total) who are 85 years of age would have Reis is a lawyer with Aikins to pay over $30,000 in insurance Law and practices in the areas premiums over 2 years. of immigration law. His direct Families should know that line is 957-4640. If you would immigration premiums can like to know more about Reis or go higher depending on the Aikins you can visit the firm’s individual’s age, health history, web page at www.aikins.com, and the duration the individual will follow Reis on Twitter at http:// be in Canada. Also, if insurance is twitter.com/#!/ImmigrationReis, not available (such as for parents or connect with him on LinkedIn and grandparents older than 90 at http://www.linkedin.com/in/ and parents and grandparents who reispagtakhan have health conditions and cannot
AIRFARE FOR 2 TO THE PHILLIPINES Jojo Villanueva Cell(204)298-5947 Mortgage Specialist/Broker Office (204) 255-7262 IMS Mortgage Broker of the Year 2010 Fax (204) 255-3320 Vice President Manitoba Filipino Business Council Inc.
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Philippine Entertainment News
Fil-Am jeweler makes good in the US
I
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t started out as a hobby but later on According to her website, her simple become a lucrative business for jeweler and soulful pieces are what apparently Guenevere Rodriguez who has now made her a striking force as a jeweler. made a name for herself in Brooklyn, New York. The Filipino-American Rodriguez, who used to sell home-made glass and wooden bead pieces of jewelry at $6 each in flea markets, now owns the Guenevere Rodriguez Jewelry Gallery. Her high-fashion pieces which are uniquely handmade and crafted from crystals, gold, silver, among others, have attracted notable celebrities such as actresses Sarah Jessica Parker and Uma Thurman, and supermodels Tyra Banks. Her works also attracted the attention of noted fashion magazines such as Vogue, Vanity Fair, Elle, Woman’s Wear Daily, New York Times Style Magazine, and People Magazine’s Style Watch, “Her pieces were also seen in international boutiques and galleries such as Henri Bendel and Joyce Hong Kong.
Pokwang rebuffs competition issue with Ai Ai delas Alas
C
omedienne Pokwang has refuted rumors that she and Comedy Queen Ai Ai delas Alas are avoiding each other because of the reported competition between them. The “Happy Yipee Yehey” host said the rumor isn’t fair as they both understand that these kinds of issues are common in showbiz.
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Pokwang hopes to bond with Ai Ai but this was not possible at the moment because both of their tight schedule. Both single mothers, Pokwang and Ai Ai likewise devote much of their time to their respective kids. The 39-year-old actress wished Ai Ai another box-office hit of her Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) entry, “Enteng ng Ina Mo,” which she starred together with “Eat Bulaga” host Vic Sotto.
Fil-Am singer gets US recognition
Y
oung singer Jasmine Villegas has just turned 18 last Dec. 7 and is excited with what’s ahead of her career. The half-Filipina, halfMexican R&B, pop and soul singer can also be remembered for singing the US national anthem in three of Manny Pacquiao’s fights: with Juan Manuel Marquez and David Diaz both in 2008, as well as his bout with Ricky Hatton in 2009. In September 2010 she joined the second leg of Justin Bieber’s
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My World Tour as an opening act. The first single of her album titled “All These Boys” was released in 19 October 2010 on iTunes. Although Villegas grew up in the US, her mother Bernadette and grandmother Sofia Velas said Filipino values were deeply inculcated in her especially giving respect to elders, showing gratitude, and the importance of education. Villegas was recently signed to Sony Music and the release of her debut album is forthcoming.
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The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
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Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Government declares state of calamity in Iligan, other worst-hit areas
A
state of calamity was declared in areas worst hit by the floods namely Cagayan de Oro City and Iligan City in Mindanao, as well as the cities of Dumaguete and Valencia in Negros Oriental province in the Visayas. On going search, rescue, and retrieval operations showed the devastating grim effects of flash floods caused by tropical storm “Sendong” (international name: Washi) as the death toll topped 600 with over 800 more people still missing, officials said Sunday. National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Executive Director Benito Ramos placed the official
number of fatalities only at 516 but said the figures were likely to rise. The Philippine Army (PA) and local officials and personnel on the field said the death toll rose to 618 with at least 868 still missing by last night. Philippine Red Cross (PRC) Secretary-General Gwendolyn Pang said the death toll will most likely rise because many villages remain isolated and unreached by overwhelmed disaster-response personnel. Last Sunday, Vice President Jejomar C. Binay visited the evacuation centers in Macasandig, City Central Elementary School and West City Elementary School and pledged to give 10,000 relief goods o
victims in CDO and 5,000 in Iligan City. President Benigno S. Aquino III will visit the areas devastated by flash floods in Mindanao Tuesday (December 20), particularly the worst-hit cities of Cagayan de Oro and Iligan, the NDRRMC said. Washi dumped more than a month of average rains on Mindanao in just 12 hours. Forecaster Leny Ruiz said records show that storms that follow the same path as Washi come only once in about every 12 years. The Obama administration through US Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton offered its ``deepest condolences’’ for the devastation in Southern Philippines.
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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
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Filipino Journal
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Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
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Filipino Journal 23
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Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Fabulous with Liner Model: Jenna Sto Domingo Written by: Tia Provici & Alana Klein
Artist: Tia Provici Photographer: Alejandro Jose, rubypearlphotography.com
L
iner is such an important part to finishing off your eyes. Whether you want a natural or super dramatic look, when applied properly, it can make your eyes appear bigger and even more beautiful than they already are. There are many ways to apply liner. To make it more fun, it can be applied using different techniques and or colors. Your eyes can be lined using dark eye shadows, conventional lining pencils, liquid eye liners or crème liners. That being said, crème liners are the newest craze right now because of their long wearing, smudge resistant and water resistant qualities, and the boldness it gives your eyes. In this article I chose to work with PROVICI’S very popular Luxe Crème Liners in 3 different shades using a few different eye lining techniques. Read on and learn how to achieve different eye liner looks for yourself.
Liner #1: Bright & Natural
Liner #2: Sexy Cat Eyes
For this type of eye, I worked with soft neutral eye shadows and the crème liner in mahogany so that it’s enhancing yet soft for daytime.
Use the precision angle brush and your Mahogany Crème eye liner. Start from the outer corner of the eye and work your way to the inner corner line along the lash line. If you’d like a subtle extra pop of soft prettiness, use your Mahogany crème liner to line the tear line as well.
Liner #3: Fun with color Sometimes using color liner can really make your eyes have that extra sparkle. I used Jade Crème liner (a rich gem colored green) to line the eyes. I winged out the liner on the bottom too so you can have an extreme cat eye with a dramatic effect of a top and bottom winged out line. There you have it! 3 fun and easy ways to play with eye liner
If you are going out or simply love the exotic “cat eye”, use the crème liner to easily achieve this sexy, long wearing look. Take your precision angle brush and rotate the long end of the brush away from your face and use your Onyx crème liner and extend your liner past the outer corner of your eye with an upward motion. The liner should be thicker on the outer corner and thin out towards the inner corner of the eye. Onyx crème liner is a rich, sensuous black.
Bring this article to the PROVICI Cosmetics studio located at 214 McDermot Ave, in The Exchange District and receive a FREE eye shadow. A fantastic savings of $15 when you buy any PROVICI brush or crème eye liner. If you have any questions call 957-1544 or email teamprovici@provici.com. Offer expires Tuesday, Feb 21, 2012. Not redeemable for cash, based on availability. Tia’s image-consulting firm, PROVICI, has attracted a loyal following in the entertainment and business communities. She has recently styled individuals for print media and live entertainment, and for awards shows such as the Junos and the Grammys. Check out Tia on Shaw TV channel 9 on Tuesday evenings, and Wednesdays before noon. Kung meron kayong questions, comments or suggestions send an e-mail to tia@provici.com. She welcomes your questions and is available for personal appointments. Just log onto www.provici.com or visit Tia at PROVICI Cosmetics, now located at 233 Mc Dermot Ave. or call (204) 957-1544 for more info.
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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
Ron Cantiveros
ron@filipinojournal.com
Help Portrait. Giving back in time and talent.
I
n the spirit of the Christmas season, several Winnipeg photographers spent a Saturday afternoon in early December to give back in time and our collective photography talents to provide photos for those less fortunate. Help Portrait is a global movement that provides free professional portraits to those who normally can only afford the bare necessities. We finished printing a set of photos for a mother and daughter at Siloam Mission, I walked up to them with two 5x7 prints. One of was of the mother and daughter, which the mother would keep. The other was a solo portrait of her daughter (names witheld). The mother asked her daughter, “Who’s that?” After several moments staring at the photo, the little girl answered, “That’s me!” and followed by the biggest smile. Walking away, I was approached by a gentleman that told me, “That girl is really shy and she doesn’t say much. You guys are doing an amazing job. Thank you!” Little did I know, that was also her first big girl photo and all I can picture is the little girl’s smile as she gazed at her photo. The old say goes, “A picture is worth a thousand words.” On Help Portrait day at Siloam Mission, the words, “That’s me!” are the two words that made it worthwhile not to mention the smiles we brought to everyone’s face. I am especially grateful for the photographers that donated their time, talent and gear to
making all three Help Portrait Winnipeg locations a huge success. Siloam Mission was where I was volunteering, and the other two locations were Agape Table and Win Gardner Place. At the end of the day, it’s all about giving back to the communities we live in.
photographed at Siloam walked into the elevator and said “It’s a Christmas to remember.” Another fellow had not had a picture of himself in more than 10 years. He said he’d give his picture to his 82-year-old mom. Yet another man said he’d use the picture on his resume. I want to especially commend you for taking the time to talk with the people you photographed. You
Filipino Journal 25
got to them a bit, asked them a few questions and helped them feel at ease – all in a very respectful way that provided dignity. I hope you know what you’ve done for the people you photographed. This wasn’t just about a photograph; this was about somebody coming in from the outside to show them that people do care. It was about creating a
sense of identity for many of them, boosting self-esteem and creating memories. Check out Help-Portrait.com for more information. Until next year’s Help Portrait event, “Say Cheese!” and keep on smiling!
Shortly after our Help Portrait event at Siloam Mission, we received the following letter: We’re extremely grateful for what you did for our guests on Saturday. It was a great day of building community, forging some friendships and nurturing relationships. Many of our guests have Christmas memories they would rather forget because of the circumstances they were going through at the time. What you did for them on Saturday was create new memories that they’ll be fond to look back on years from now. The last lady to be
The photographers at Siloam Mission Help Portrait 2011. Photographers, from left to right: Rob Buenaventura, Jeremy Choy, Jon Adaskin, Bob Tinker and Ron Cantiveros. Darren Fast wasn’t at Siloam Mission for the group photo. Photo taken by our gracious host, Mike Derksen from Siloam Mission.
Behind the scenes of Help Portrait. Volunteer photographer, Jon Adaskin during one of 120 photo sessions at Siloam Mission.
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Smile! Looking great on camera and in print. Volunteer photographer, Jeremy Choy (right) with a happy Siloam Mission patron during Help Portrait. Photos by: Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal
26 Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
(This column is reserved for the readers of Filipino Journal who have something to say about particular issues concerning, but not limited to, the Filipino culture especially politics and current events. So, if you have something to say, write it down and then submit it to elfideas102@yahoo.com. If we find your article befitting our standards, we will publish it here.—Ed.)
What Filipino Winnipeggers Can be Proud of
by Adonis Fernandez
W
hile I was making a leisurely research on the history of Winnipeg’s Manila Road and Dr. Jose Rizal Way, I chanced upon an interesting (oral) research presentation by Kelly Philip (a professor at York University) regarding the “social mobility of the children of immigrants.” The research was delivered on October 20, 2011, at the Parliament Hill (Ottawa). The research focused on assessing the integration of new immigrants (Chinese, Filipinos, other Asians, and other visible minority groups) into the Canadian society. The assessment was measured based on the rate of university degree holdership of second-generation children (children of immigrant parents) versus that of their parents. For, as Kelly suggested, it is degree holdership that mirrors the aspirations and goals of the second generation and paves the way for
better opportunity and mobility. The key findings of the research may be outlined by the following propositions: 1) there’s a general pattern by which the secondgeneration children outperformed their parents on degree holdership; 2) in Toronto, Hamilton, and Vancouver, parents outperformed their children on degree holdership; 3) in Winnipeg, second-generation Filipinos followed the general pattern of outperforming their parents on degree holdership. The two latter findings were the ones that created a particular interest because while the general pattern occurred to all other visible minorities in Canada, it did and did occur to Filipinos at the same time, at least geographically. This, Kelly considered a “puzzle.” Putting forth “geographic lenses,” Kelly attributed the puzzle surrounding the integration of the Filipino community into the Canadian society to four aspects: 1)
geography of source countries, 2) geography of Canadian diversity, 3) neighbourhood geography, and 4) geography of home and family. His analysis brought to light the reason many Filipinos in Winnipeg integrate better into the Canadian society than do those in Toronto, Hamilton, and Vancouver. While Filipinos in Toronto, Hamilton, Vancouver, and Winnipeg were generally parallel in the aspect of geography of source countries, Filipinos in Winnipeg were superior in the aspect of geography of Canadian diversity, neighborhood geography, and geography of home and family. As for the geography of source countries, Filipinos in the four cities shared the same situation: there was a high level of “de-professionalization,” having subordinate positions, high process of de-skilling, and concentration in survival type of jobs among Filipino immigrants despite their success in integrating into the Canadian society; and the lack of prominent role models for Filipinos. As a result, pride, self-esteem, and aspiration of the next-generation Filipinos are low. Geography in Canadian diversity, on the other hand, shows that many Filipinos in Winnipeg are prominent in public while Filipinos in the three other cities are less prominent. What makes Filipino Winnipeggers prominent? The large number of Filipinos in the community, their having role models in various fields (elected politicians such as Councilor Mike Pagtakhan, MLA Flor Marcelino, and MLA Ted Marcelino; singers
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
like Mimosa Duot, April Llave, Maria Aragon; pioneering community and business leaders like Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, Rod Cantiveros, and Cora Sangalang; bands that play original music like Immortal Sacrament, Casting the Circle, and haLf man haLf eLf; and radio announcers like Lucille Nolasco, Donna NatividadArenas, and Chester Pangan), their community activities (Folklorama, Filipino night during Blue Bombers game, and Manila to Manitoba Exhibit), and the fact that of the Filipino immigrants that arrived only about three percent are through the live-in caregiver program. This prominence in public life makes it easier for the second generation to aim high and pursue their aspirations—as in aim and aspire for university degrees. Conversely, this case does not happen in the same extent to Filipinos in Toronto, Hamilton, and Vancouver. As for the neighborhood geography, Filipino Winnipeggers being highly concentrated in the West End of downtown and North End of the city means that they have better access to available opportunities of education and employment. It means also that their dominance and their having culturally specific neighborhood result to greater confidence of the next generation; it results to a better outcome for the youth. On the other hand, Filipinos in the three other cities are dispersed across the urban region. As for the geography of home and family, due largely through the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, many Filipinos in
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Winnipeg have better family ties than those in Toronto and Vancouver have (where 40% of the immigrants arrived through the live-in caregiver program). This family ties has an effect on the aspiration and aims of the second generation. Also, lowincome parents usually produce low-income second generation. With the above delineations, two neat conclusions can then be drawn: 1) the kind of community that Filipinos have in Winnipeg fosters an environment of confidence, empowerment, resilience, and more importantly, ambitions. Hence, an upward mobility for the second generation in which they outperform their parents on university degree holdership or in which they compensate for their parents’ “deprofessionalization”; 2) Winnipeg is a model for new immigrant integration. The greater tendency of Filipinos in Winnipeg to engage in community activities is a significant contributing factor to their ability to integrate into the Canadian society despite identifiable social, cultural, educational, political, and geographical roadblocks. In spite of our high taxes, our oft-broadcasted violence-prone community, our extreme weather conditions, and our being in the “lesser” city, we can still raise our heads up and claim that we live in the best city in Canada in terms of opportunities to shine, to have better lives, to pursue public prominence, and make a difference. Note: For a better understanding and assimilation of Philip’s oral presentation, you can visit this link http://vimeo.com/31370814.
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com
Year-Ender in Music for 2011, part 2: Metal (On 40 New Metal Albums Released This Year)
M
any music fans and journalists claim that Metal—from Glam to Funk, to Progressive and Death—died in the 1990s. They’re wrong! Their interest in Metal music is the one that died, not Metal music itself; for Metal bands old and new of various subgenres continue to do concerts and release albums of new materials. Here is a list of my recommended albums from various subgenres of Metal (Glam Metal, Death Metal, Folk Metal, Progressive Metal, including Progressive Rock and Blues-Rock) released this year. This simply proves that Metal is alive and pounding! Alestorm – Back through Time Alice Cooper – Welcome 2 My Nightmare Anthrax – Worship Music
Anvil – Juggernaut of Justice Black Veil Brides – Set the World on Fire Cavalera Conspiracy – Blunt Force Trauma Children of Bodom – Relentless Reckless Forever Cruachan – Blood on the Black Robe Deicide – To Hell with God Destruction – Day of Reckoning Dragonlord – Under the Grey Banner Dream Theater – A Dramatic Turn of Events Five Finger Death Punch – American Capitalist HammerFall – Infected Iced Earth – Dystopia In Flames – Sounds of a Playground Fading Journey – Eclipse Korn – Path of Totality Limp Bizkit – Gold Cobra Loudness – Eve to Dawn Mastodon – The Hunter
Megadeth – TH1RT3EN Mr. Big – What If… Nightwish – Imaginaerum Opeth – Heritage Primus – Green Naugahyde Queensrÿche – Dedicated to Chaos Rival Sons – Pressure & Time Saxon – Call to Arms Sebastian Bach (formerly of Skid Row) – Kicking & Screaming Sepultura – Kairos Seven Witches – Call upon the Wicked Sixx:A.M. – This Is Gonna Hurt Stryper – The Covering Symphony X – Iconoclast Uriah Heep – Into the Wild Vader – Welcome to the Morbid Reich White Wizzard – Flying Tigers Whitesnake – Forevermore Yes – Fly from Home Final Note In the Internet age, music enthusiasts no longer need to rely solely on commercial radio and the media spotlight; their passion for music, their initiative and resourcefulness, and their willingness to research let them know that Metal music—like perhaps any other genre—is alive and thriving.
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Filipino Journal 27
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Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
His Crowning Glory By Nene Pimentel
A
s he was growing up during his mother’s presidency in the mideighties, I saw Noynoy Aquino as a child of privilege. In that stage of his life, he did not manifest any interest in matters of State. Yes, he got shot and was wounded in one of those insane coup attempts to oust his mom from the presidency. Other than that, there was no much that was said or heard of him in those parlous times. I did not even see or hear much of him when years later he was elected to the House of Representatives, representing a district in Tarlac where his dad and mom held sway for most of their political lives. Impressive homework In 2007, he was elected to the Senate where he impressed me with the spadework that backed up his exhaustive interpolations on subjects that fascinated him. Then, in 2010, by edict of fate, Noynoy, the greenhorn Senator, was elected president of the Republic. Motherhood goals I listened to his inaugural speech. It did not inspire. I expected a more substantial definition of, at least, the basic outlines of the programs he had vowed during the presidential campaign to alleviate the plight of the poor. Instead, he
talked about motherhood goals of good governance and the good life for all. My reaction was to say a short prayer that he would succeed in his presidency for the simple reason that his failure would not only be his, but ours, as a people. Crushing corruption As the months of his presidency flew by, two things related to his way of governance resonated in my mind. The first was his repeated avowals to crush corruption in government. And the second was what appears to be an on-going presidential ban on his siblings, uncles, aunts, and, relatives from frequenting the presidential palace or being seen with him even in photo ops. By prohibiting the members of his family and his relatives from having easy access to him, the President probably intended to send a public message that no one should even think of using any member of his family or relatives (or friends), to secure shady deals from the government during his administration. Today, the people seem to believe in his anti-corruption pitch and in the wisdom of his keeping his family and relatives as it were at bay. Those are probably two reasons why his presidency has been receiving reasonably good
poll survey ratings in the last 18 months of his incumbency. But, of course, the President should be wary of poll surveys. They are as ephemeral as icing even on a presidential cake. Lately, activist groups are pressing his administration to do something concrete to get the masses out of the mire poverty. Cutting off the Albatross Happily in the last several days, President Noynoy appears to have positively responded to those urgings. He did something that, I believe, will crown his presidency with glory, respectability and credibility. And that was his cutting off the Albatross of the Hacienda Luisita from his neck. Hacienda Luisita has always been associated with the Cojuangco side of his family. And by inheritance, he has a share of it. If he were a plain citizen, his having an interest in the hacienda would not cause anyone’s eyebrow to rise. The problem is that he is the President who under the Constitution is saddled with the duty to implement laws, including the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law. And to implement that law means that the Hacienda Luisita has to be parceled out to its tenantfarmers. That was, in fact, how the Supreme Court had recently ruled on the question of whether or not the hacienda should be distributed to its farmer-tillers. It is the same Supreme Court that the President lambasted on
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
(December 5) for ‘picking a fight’ with his office. In that squabble, the President knows that as the elected leader of the nation, he needs the backing of the people. But that support will be denied him unless he disposes off his and his family’s ties to the hacienda. Otherwise, doubts will cripple initially his credibility and, ultimately, even his capability to advance the welfare of the masses. Now he has taken the first step - albeit oral - to assure the farmer-tillers of the hacienda that they would get their due. Still, there are a thousand and one things that need to be done to enable the President to fulfill that verbal promise. There’s the question of identifying who the authentic beneficiaries are? And how the certificates of land ownership awards will be issued? Will one CLOA be given all farmer-tiller beneficiaries as a collectivity or will a separate CLOA be granted to every farmertiller beneficiary? But the most compelling issue, however, has to do with the ‘just compensation’ that the Constitution and the law require to be paid to the President and his family for the compulsory distribution of the Hacienda Luista lands to its farmer-tillers. In determining what comprises ‘just compensation’, many factors have to be considered. It may be best, then, for the President and his family to
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leave the issue of distributing the hacienda lands completely in the hands of the officials mandated by law. Or another way out of the conundrum, probably, is for them to put their interests in what the law calls a “blind trust”, where the trustee would have full powers to dispose of those interests without any interference from the President or his family. But if the matter is left to the government officials running the department of agrarian reform as suggested earlier, they should discharge their duties not only soonest but with absolute transparency and complete accountability. Singular achievement In any event, at this point of his presidency, President Noynoy has already done what no other president to my recollection ever did. He has publicly announced that he and his family will give up their personal interests in Hacienda Luisita for the sake of its landless tenants. People’s support By doing so, the President has begun to rise above his class origins and to serve the best interests of the lowliest among our people. And for that, he deserves our appreciation and support. Once completed according to the spirit and letter of the law, his giving up of his and his family’s ownership of Hacienda Luisita in favor of its farmer-tillers will be the crowning glory of his presidency
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
Visit our Web site - www.FilipinoJournal.com - Now on
Filipino Journal 29
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Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Horoscope This month you can make great strides in your career with the help of others. However, under this influence you may use people or be manipulative. It may be difficult to balance work and personal commitments this month, and you’ll have to be organized.
You may make some rash moves related to your career. You’ll crave changes to your routine and have trouble keeping up with commitments. You may worry about your health, but this will be a waste of energy.
You’ll be focused and organized during the holiday season. There will be several chances to socialize with relatives, neighbors, and members of your community. This would be a good time to get involved with planning a party or event.
Month of December is indicating progress in your Career and Business. Expansion in name and fame is possible. You will have good connections with people of repute in this month.
Investments in long term deals should be more profitable. Difficulties in love affairs are indicated for you in this month. Going to be reasonably good month for educational pursuits.
You’ll be flirtatious and explore new opportunities for romance during the month. This will make you feel alive and vital, but it would be a good idea to think before you act. Life at the office will be intense and challenging, but you’ll benefit from being part of a team.
There may be a tendency to waste your money or resources during the next few weeks. Keep an eye on your finances and stick to a plan.
There are chances of enhancement in your immovable property. Those who are in business should get more benefits than who are in service.
Make an effort to communicate and cooperate with your partner, if you have one. Interpersonal relations in general will be strained, but they’ll improve if you’re able to keep an open mind, listen to others, and be honest.
Your attention will be on matters related to home and family during this holiday season. You may be easily distracted, though. Your love life will be intense and gratifying. You may begin to set new goals related to these areas, and you’ll have a positive outlook.
A relationship has an intense, make or break feel to it in December. There is the opportunity to get much closer to someone but you will both have to really want this for it to work.
This month of December indicates delay in rise and financial hurdles. You should control your expenses in this month. Those who are in service may experience deterioration in service conditions.
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Masuwerte Guidelines International Network _______ Coliseum Renta Masebo Galaw ng dagat Ihakbang Sanggol Tunog ng orasan Singer ng Zuñiga Hulapi Magalang na tugon
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Extra Terrestrial Arnel Pineda Sikat Unlapi Dungis Problema Malaking lalagyan Ilado Hintay sa pangako Lasa ng asukal Higaan:Ingles Hindi ko na gusto (2 salita)
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Tawag sa lola Leksiyon Tulo Supling Bansa sa Middle East Pagtutumpok-tumpok District Attorney Pagkaing Halaman Dumi ng ibon Manilawnilaw na likido sa naimpeksyong sugat Kuha
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Ita Pera ng mga Pinoy Tanggalin Pananagana Angkop Paglalagay ng kamay sa balikat ng iba Ipakiusap Hangad Taong bayan Likom Tawag sa ina
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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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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
Filipino Journal 31
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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
An evening with Angeline Quinto and Coco Martin in Winnipeg ABS-CBN artists Angeline Quinto and Coco Martin performed to screaming and adoring fans at the Burton Cummings Theatre on Friday, December 2 in Winnipeg.
More photos available on
Filipino Journal.com Photos by: Rob Buenaventura, Alejandro Marcelino and Charlene Mariano
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Filipino Journal 33
34 Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Aquino signs 2012 budget, vetoes provision on debt cap
Alam Mo Ba Na…?
(This new column will feature trivial facts and information that involve ni Adonis in Fernandez Filipinos or the Filipino community Canada.)
ad_gracer@yahoo.com
T
he First Filipino Elected to Canadian Government: Rey Pagtakhan is the first Filipino-Canadian elected to the House of Commons, the first Filipino-Canadian to be appointed Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister (Jean Chrétien), and the first Filipino-Canadian to be appointed to the Federal Cabinet. (Alona Mercado, Pilipino Express, 2008) Most Frequent Transit Users: Filipinos are the most frequent transit users in Canada (according to Dr. Kelly Philip of York University, October 2011)
Fastest-Growing Minority Group: Filipinos are Winnipeg’s fastest-growing minority group, numbering to about 38,100 people, or roughly 6% of the total population of the city, per Canada 2006 Census. (Wikipedia)
P
resident Aquino has signed the P1.8-trillion budget program for 2012, boasting it was the swiftest budget approval since the restoration of democracy in 1986, and promised that every peso would be spent on uplifting the lives of the people. Budget Secretary Florencio Abad said with the early signing of the budget program, the government could immediately implement its programs and key infrastructure projects even next year. Speaker Feliciano Belmonte Jr. described the early approval of the budget as a vote of confidence for Aquino. Majority Leader Neptali Gonzales II said the early signing of the budget bill into law would give the Palace enough time
S
to frontload funds to agencies and to pump-prime the economy. For his part, Senate finance committee chairman Franklin Drilon said the early enactment of the 2012 budget is in line with the government’s program of fasttracking its infrastructure and social services programs next year. The President said the education sector got the lion share in the budget program. This was followed by the health sector, and the infrastructure and agricultural sectors. Abad defended Aquino’s vetoing of the 60 percent cap on debt. Public sector debt as of last year already stood at 73.3 percent of gross domestic product (GDP), which is well beyond the 60percent debt cap provision included
by Congress in the General Appropriations Bill. Introduced by opposition Sen. Joker Arroyo, the special provision would have required the executive branch to seek the approval of Congress for any government borrowing that goes beyond the equivalent of 60 percent of GDP. Arroyo said the people will never know when the government is over-borrowing because there is no cap on borrowing. During the Development Budget Coordinating Committee (DBCC) briefing, Finance Secretary Cesar Purisima argued that placing a cap on borrowings may cause undue concern in the credit markets and, in effect, increase the risk premium on Philippine debt.
Senators belie constitutional crisis
enators on Thursday contradict speculations that a constitutional crisis is brewing as a result of the impeachment of the Chief Justice. Senate Minority Leader Alan Peter Cayetano said the verbal clash between President Benigno S. Aquino III and Chief Justice Renato C. Corona show proof that the country’s constitutional process is alive and that democracy and the Supreme Court (SC) may come out stronger. Cayetano said a constitutional crisis will occur if, in the event of a conflict between branches of the government, the Constitution does
not clearly state how the situation will be resolved. He added that with the impeachment process, the system is really working. Sen. Gregorio B. Honasan II shares a similar view, saying that Philippine democracy and the SC will be stronger after overcoming the painful experience of impeaching the Chief Justice. In the meantime, Sen. Edgardo Angara urged senator-judges to still look into the possibility of mediating between the contending parties in the trial to allay the political tension. The Senate he said stressed should first explore areas of reconciliation.
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Meanwhile, Justice Secretary Leila de Lima branded Corona as a walking constitutional violation and a usurper to the Office of the Chief Justice, calling him the ‘Hello Garci’ of the judicial department. In Malacañang, the President turned the tables on Corona and accused him of dictatorial tendencies in past decisions of the SC. Aquino claimed it was actually Corona who has been dictating on the High Tribunal to change previous rulings to suit his interests. For his part, Corona said he will not go on leave as head of the country’s judiciary despite the prodding of Malacañang for him to do so.
Filipino Journal 35
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
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Filipino Journal
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
2011 Year in Review
Road Trip: Morden just corn September 5 - 20, 2011
Winter Wonderland
February 5 - 20, 2011
March 5 - 20, 2011 Lady Maria duets with Lady Gaga in Toronto Consular Services Outreach Marathon July 20 - August 5, 2011
QPAM Santacruzan June 5 - 20, 2011
Manitoba Filipino Business Council turns One November 5 - 20, 2011
Festival du Voyager February 20 - March 5, 2011
Maria Aragon Duets with Prime Minister Stephen Harper April 5 -20, 2011
Manny Pacquiao victorious over Mosley, Parties with Paris Hilton May 20 - June 5, 2011
On the menu - lumpia for breakfast
Bacoor Association Celebrates 11th Anniversary
March 20 - April 5, 2011
November 20 - December 5, 2011
Celebrating Culture & Diversity August 20 - September 5, 2011
Swaggerville: Pinoy Style August 20 - September 5, 2011
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December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Filipino Journal 37
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
LBC, RCBC Change the Way PGM Celebrates Christmas 2011. he Pangasinan Group Potluck Dinner was served Filipinos Remit of Manitoba (PGM) followed by a program that
PGM President Peter Estrada thanks everyone present for their participation and cooperation that leads to the successful celebration. celebrates Christmas in a includes: Parlor games, door He then extended his greetings to Card,” Sandig revealed. everyone. Sandig also emphasized that the party held on December 11, 2011 prizes and gift giving and dancing new product will make it easier for at the Filipino Senior Center along to the bit of beautiful music. the global Filipinos to send money Euclid Avenue in Winnipeg.
L
BC Express, Inc. and Rizal Commercial Banking Corporation (RCBC) forged a partnership to introduce a new and easier way for Filipinos to remit home thru the RCBC backed LBC through the LBC Send & Swipe Send & Swipe card. “RCBC and Card. LBC are changing the way Filipinos LBC Express Executive Vice remit by reinventing the debit card President for Global Remittance into a remittance all-purpose card,” Janet T. Ong said that the LBC Sandig added. Send & Swipe Card is basically a Ong also stressed out that the debit/remit card backed by RCBC LBC Send & Swipe card can be MyWallet and powered by VISA. reloaded in any of the 1,200 LBC “This is the latest innovation of branches globally. “The LBC Send our LBC Remit Express brand. & Swipe Card has no annual fee The primary features of LBC Send and they can apply for it at any of & Swipe card is that the real-time the LBC branches worldwide,” Ong crediting of the remittance, money said. withdrawal 24/7 in any 1.8 million LBC is the leading Global VISA ATMs worldwide including Filipino Company in the business Bancnet, Megalink and Expressnet of Express Courier and Money and cashless payment in 30 million Remittance with 1,000 branches stores globally because it is powered in the Philippines and over 100 by VISA,” Ong said. branches worldwide. LBC has been RCBC Executive Vice linking and bridging Global Filipino President Ismael R. Sandig said that for more than 60 years now through RCBC partnered with LBC Express total customer service experience. to expand the reach of RCBC It aims to be the total solutions MyWallet Card through their 1,000 provider of choice professionally branches in the Philippines. “The and technologically equipped strategic tie-up of RCBC MyWallet to serve Filipino families and and LBC Remit Express brands businesses entities across the globe. gave birth to the LBC Send & Swipe FJX Golden Terrace (Dec20-Jan5-2012).pdf Y K Width: 10” Height: 7.5”
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40
Filipino Journal
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PEREZCOPE by Perry Diaz PerryDiaz@gmail.com
‘Coronarroyo Court’ under siege
I
t happened in a blink! Yes, by congressional time speed, five hours is a blink. And that’s all it took the allies of President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III to call for a caucus and gather enough signatures to impeach Supreme Court Chief Justice Renato Corona on December 12, 2011. And before the end of the day, his allies gathered 188 signatures – almost twice the 95 that were needed – and the House of Representatives voted to impeach Corona for alleged betrayal of public trust, violation of the Constitution, and graft and corruption. By day’s end, the Articles of Impeachment were transmitted to the Senate. Indeed, the “Big Blink” happened so fast that it caught Corona by surprise. In remarks following his impeachment, Corona’s alter ego Supreme Court Administrator Jose Midas Marquez launched a scathing attack against the “enemies” of the Supreme Court and likened the impeachment to a blitzkrieg assault on the High Court. In just over a day, P-Noy was called “Hitler,” “Fidel Castro,” “dictator,” and other names that aren’t appropriate to print. But not too long ago, just before the “Big Blink” occurred, P-Noy was derisively called “wimp,” “weak,” “indecisive,” “incompetent,” etc.
It’s amazing how people’s perception of P-Noy changed in just a few days: from weak to strong, from indecisive to decisive, from a wimp to a dictator, and nothing in between. That’s the Filipino psyche. We love strong and decisive leaders. We identify with winners and shun losers. And the polls show it. The recent Pulse Asia survey shows P-Noy with an approval rating of 72% and trust rating of 74%. By contrast, Corona’s approval rating is 38% and trust rating is 29%, the lowest among the top five leaders of the land. “Coronarroyo Court” With the support of a large majority of the people, P-Noy’s anticorruption crusade took a frontal attack at the core of the problem – the “rogue magistrate” who was unconstitutionally and illegitimately appointed by Gloria in the waning days of her presidency. Indeed, it’s an attack on the “Coronarroyo Court,” which I coined the day following Corona’s swearing in by Gloria on May 17, 2010 (“Corona’s Thorny Crown”). “With that,” I said, “the High Court is now composed of all justices appointed by Arroyo. The ‘Arroyo Court’ is now fait accompli. Or should I say, ‘Coronarroyo Court’?” Indeed, it is. Subsequent
decisions made by the Supreme Court were inclined to favor Gloria. In my article, “Arroyo’s Court of Last Defense” (December 8, 2010), I wrote: “The Supreme Court’s 10-5 decision that ruled the Truth Commission unconstitutional did not come as a surprise. It was expected. Indeed the seeds were sowed during the last few years of former President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo when she appointed nine Supreme Court justices who were perceived to have been appointed based on their loyalty to Arroyo more than their judicial credentials. By the time she stepped down from the presidency, fourteen of the justices – the 15th seat was vacant — were all her appointees including Chief Justice Renato Corona whose controversial “midnight appointment” stained the high court’s integrity.” “Last straw” Although the eight grounds for Corona’s impeachment did not include the Supreme Court’s ruling that the Truth Commission was unconstitutional, in his speech before his allies the day after Corona was impeached, P-Noy said: “We strived to establish this system by means of a Truth Commission. But our very first step was obstructed by the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Renato Corona.” P-Noy knew then that the Supreme Court would continue to obstruct his anti-corruption campaign, particularly in prosecuting Gloria and other corrupt officials under her administration. He cited several questionable decisions made by the Supreme Court under the leadership of Corona. The last straw was when the Supreme Court issued a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) on the Watch List Order (WLO) in which Gloria and her husband Mike Arroyo
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
were placed under. The Arroyos were required to secure an approval from the Department of Justice before they could travel outside the country. The TRO in effect allowed the Arroyos to leave the country and possibly not come back to face prosecution. But they were blocked when they tried to board a flight to Hong Kong on orders of Justice Secretary Leila de Lima with the full support of P-Noy. Impeachment trial On December 14, 2011, the Senate convened as an impeachment court and its 23 members (one seat is vacant) took their oath as senatorjudges. Under the Constitution, the Senate President and the Supreme Court Chief Justice are to preside over the impeachment trial. However, since Chief Justice Corona is the respondent, then only the Senate President would preside over the trial. Lawyer Valentina Cruz was designated as the spokesperson of the impeachment court. Their next step is to summon Corona and direct him to reply to the Articles of Impeachment. Corona would be given 10 calendar days to respond to the charges, after which the nine prosecutors from the House of Representatives would be given five days to answer. When Congress resumes session on January 16, 2012, the Senate impeachment trial would begin at 2:00 PM, Monday through Thursday. The actual trial, however, might not start until February, which would be determined by the senator-judges and only when the prosecutors would be ready. The impeachment trial is expected to last six months. With two-thirds or 16 votes needed to convict Corona, it might be hard to get a conviction because there are some senators – five or six -- who are expected to vote in favor
Dimples
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of Corona regardless of the evidence presented. That’s the political nature of an impeachment trial. But so was the “Coronarroyo Court,” which it wasn’t supposed to be. Under the impeachment rules, Corona would be convicted and removed from office if he was found guilty on any one of the eight articles of impeachment. A senator-judge may find Corona guilty in one article and innocent in another. Bur for Corona to be acquitted, he must be declared innocent in all eight articles. Makes one wonder what are the chances of Corona being declared innocent of all charges? Quo vadis, Corona? The question is: Does he have the gumption to run a gauntlet of embarrassment and ridicule? He knows that his whole life and that of his family would be ripped open for the public to see. If he has anything to hide, it would be exposed for all to see. He has about a month to search his soul. Does he want redemption or acquittal? Unfortunately, he can’t have both. If he resigns, he will redeem himself from the court of public opinion. But if he continues to fight and would be acquitted, he will never regain the respect of the people. Former Ombudsman Merceditas Gutierrez went through the same impeachment process. She was impeached by the House of Representatives and had a good chance of acquittal in a Senate impeachment trial. But in the end, she chose instead to resign to spare herself the ignominy of being put on trial like a common criminal. She chose an “honorable” resignation. Corona, too, has a choice: honor or ignominy?
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com
Ano’ng Hanap-hanap Mo sa Pilipinas tuwing Pasko? (On Things Many Filipinos Abroad Miss in the Philippines Every Christmas Season)
K
ung ikaw ay dito na sa Canada nagkaisip, malamang hindi ka interesado sa Pasko sa Pilipinas. Subalit kung ikaw ay mayedad na nang magpunta sa Canada, eh siguradong maraming bagay sa Pilipinas ang hanap-hanap mo tuwing sasapit ang Kapaskuhan. Instead of listing my Christmas wishes and New Year’s resolution, I thought of listing instead some things and activities in the Philippines that I miss every Christmas. I’m sure many fellow Filipinos here in Canada miss these too.
For this factor that many Filipinos look forward to attending simbang gabi—it’s a chance to enjoy being outside in the streets at that time of the night in the company of family, friends, neighbors, and other churchgoers. - Street food stalls. As soon as simbang gabi starts, food stalls also begin to line the streets leading to the churches. Churchgoers enjoy having early breakfast at any of these stalls, the common specialties of which are
Filipino Journal 41
rice cakes and other similar delicacies such as puto bumbong, bibingka, and suman with latik paired with tsaa or plain hot tea. Young ones regard this as also a great way to socialize with their friends.
the idea of having fun is usually going out with family and friends and engaging in outdoor activities. Included in these activities is going to carnivals, which become a common attraction during Christmas.
- Christmas decorations, light, and music. Of course, anywhere Christmas is celebrated, decorations, lights, and music are also everywhere. However, Philippines is for sure one of the countries where many houses become giant works of art as early as the first of the “ber” months comes for the extravagant lanterns, lightings, and other decorations that adorn the exteriors and even interiors of houses as well as various establishments. Shopping malls become lively as well not only for the decorations but also for the constant playing of Christmas music.
These are just a few of what I miss in the Philippines. What about you?
- Carnivals. Who would not enjoy going to carnivals for a chance to ride the ferris wheel, roller coaster, merrygo-round, carousel, and ghost train or simply to hang out with family and friends? In the Philippines, because the weather is fine even in December,
- Simbang Gabi (or, Evening or Dawn Mass) is a nine-day ritual mass performed at Roman Catholic and Aglipay churches in the Philippines which starts on December 16 and ends on December 24. The mass is held usually as early as 4 or 5 in the morning, the last day of which takes place on Christmas Eve, just in time for the advent of Christmas Day. Because the Philippines is a tropical country, the weather remains relatively warm and conducive to outdoor activities even in December.
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Sa Madaling Salita Para sa mga Filipinong may edad na nang magsimulang manirahan sa Canada, malamang wala nang sasaya pa sa Pasko sa
Pilipinas; subalit kung dito ka na rin naman nagkaisip, syempre iba na ang iyong pananaw sa kung paano ba maidaraos ang Kapaskuhan. Or, in Simple Words For Filipinos who immigrated to Canada as adults, perhaps nothing beats the delight of celebrating Christmas in many parts of the Philippines. However, if you were born or grew up in a winter country like Canada, of course there are other equally fun ways of celebrating the season.
42
Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
UST Alumni Association Celebrates 400th Anniversary with Scholarship Awards
T
he UST Alumni Association of Manitoba celebrates the University of Santo Tomas 400th foundation by highligting the awarding of the cash scholarship awards to five recipients. The formal affair was attended by UST alumni from the various faculties and colleges headed by Regina Santos, faculty of civil law. president; and Dr. Mirla David. faculty of medicine,, chairperson of the Scholarships Awards Committee. The oldest alumnus, Dr. Dick Lim, graduated medicine in the late 50’s; and the three former classmates, Rosario Llanes, Lani Santos, and Cleofe Palazzo: Class 1980, Chemical Eng. at the Faculty of Engineering; and special performance by well-known local singer, Neil Cruz, who rendered the winning song entry to celebrate the UST Quadricentennial celebration, “Ako’y Tomasino”. This year’s awardees include: Julius Patrick Lu ($1,200); Mary Ann de Jesus ($1,100); Kristal Ann Villamayor ($1,100) and Emmanuel Hernandez ($1,000). Video of His Holiness Pope Benedick XIV’s message was presented to the alumni and guests. And a salutary comments by Dr. Romulo Magsino, O.M,
Dean Emeritus, University of Manitoba, former Chair, of Scholarship Committee and read by his wife, Leah EnvergaMagsino. And special greeting from Herb Embuldeniya, former chair, Scholarship Committee. Current officers and members of the board of the USTAAM: Reggie Santos, president; Willie de Borja, vice-president; Maridol Madolor, treasurer; Reyjel Robles, asst. treasurer; Phil Anciro, secretary; Vangie Mance, asst. sect., Hiecy Homol, auditor; members: Hazel Adisaz, Ed Adviento, Dr. Mirla Davis, Clara Orallo and Alda Ruiz; advisers: Dr. Irene Guzman, Dr. Lydia Lucman, Dr. Ernie Milambiling, and Dr. Paulino Orallo.
Three former classmates Chemical Eng’g 1980, Faculty of Engineering, from l to r: Cleofe Palazzo, Lani Santos and Rosario Llanes
Abby Buenafe, Dr. Jay Buenafe, Don and Nina Ganzon, back, l to r: Mavic Regis, Alda Ruiz, Dr. Mirla David, Dr. Ernie Milambiling, and Dr. Ligaya Milambiling
The officers and members of USTAAM: front, l to r: Alda Ruiz, Vangie Mance, Dr. Dick Lim, Dr. Paulino Orallo, Maridol Madolora, Reggie Santos, Dr. Mirla David, Clara Orallo, and Fe O’Leary; 2nd row, f to r: Grace Davies, Teresita de Jesus, Nina Ganzon, Mavic Regis, Pinky Gamboa, Consuelo Mendoza, Lucille Nolasco, Dr. Ligaya Milambiling, Leah Enverga-Magsino, Nieva Embuldeniya, Vicky Tualla, Joy Lazo , Lani Santos, Malyn de Leon, Nina Huypungco, Hazel Adisaz; back row, l to r: Dr. Jay Buenafe, Rose Ocampo, Don Ganzon, Amy Santiago, Marilou Valmonte, Amado Mendoza, Dr. Ernie Milambiling, Cleofe Palazzo, Rosario Llanes, Willie de Borja, Phil Anciro, Archie Huypungco, Ramon Lazo and Rod E. Cantiveros.
Rod E. Cantiveros, Dr. Paul Orallo, Carrie Maridol Madolora, Alda Ruiz, Joy Lazo, Regina Natalia Baquiran Van Houle, Aurora Casem, Barroga, Regina Santos, Fe O’Leary, Maridol Santos, Leah Enverga-Magsino, Dr. Mirla David Grace Davies, Stella, Linda Horsant, Katie Demare. Madolora, Lucille Nolasco, and guest; front l to and Lucille Nolasco. r: Alda Ruiz, Julie Javier, and Leah EnvergaMagsino.
Regina Santos, president; awardees, Mary Ann de Jesus, Kristal Anne Villamayor, Juluis Patrick Lu, Emmanuel Hernandez, Cathy Auld, Winnipeg Foundation and Dr. Mirla David, chair, Scholarship Awards Committee.
Willie de Borja, Drs Ernie and Ligaya Milambiling, Alda Ruiz, Lucille Nolasco, Leah Enverga-Magsino, Julie Javier, Carrie Barroga and Chato de Borja.
Always at your service.
Neil Cruz performs the winning song “Ako’y Tomasino”
Hazel Adisaz, Amie Santiago, Consuelo and Amado Mendoza; back, l to r: Jimmy Palazzo, Cleofe Palazzo, Lani Santos, Rosario Llanes, Max Llanes and Rose Pilar Castro.
Dr. Dick Lim and his wife, Rose
Kevin Lamoureux Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North
Constituency Office: Unit 6-998 Keewatin St. Phone: (204) 984-1767 Web: www.4kevin.ca
Jun Misa, Digna Misa, Oscar Buhay, Leah Buhay, Mila Mendoza, Cel Mendoza, Chat de Borja, Willie de Borja
OPINIONS info@FilipinoJournal.com FilipinoJournal.com
Visit our Web site - www.FilipinoJournal.com - all photos & articles available online!
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
Visit our Web site - www.FilipinoJournal.com - Now on
Filipino Journal 43
44
Filipino Journal
The Pulse of the Filipino Community Since 1987
December 20, 2011 - January 5, 2012
Visit our Web site - www.FilipinoJournal.com - all photos & articles available online!