Filipino Journal Alberta Edition December 2014

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Volume 6, Number 12 • December 2014

Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Canada Cares for the Philippines

Page 6 ►

3 Filipino foreign workers killed in car crash 2nd tragic accident in less than a month

Page 6 ►

TV Filipino Canada Partnered with SSS On Its Briefing and Onsite Services in Calgary

Page 13 ► Illustration by Clarence A. Cantiveros

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Christ is in Christmas, a celebration of Hope, Love, Peace and Joy The Republic of Adobo

by Rod

Cantiveros

rod@filipinojournal.com

Radio and televisions programs, countless Christmas carols are sung by many popular singers, from Bing Crosby to Michael Buble'; the malls and the stores are teeming with people, days closer to the Christmas Day, buying gifts for their loved ones.

Food and drinks are being ordered for family Christmas dinner; and Churches are ready for Christmas mass and other rituals celebrating the Birth of Jesus.

Facebook and other social media have also sending the messages of Christmas, so many messages, like quotations about Christmas from well-known people, define the full meaning of Christmas, finding that this yearly celebration has so much impact on their lives, Even Christmas cards we sent and we received have big

Christmas wording, not the Holiday Greeting: From MP Joy Smith: "Faith makes all things possible, Hope makes all things work, Love makes all things beautiful, May you have all the three his Christmas. Merry Christmas." St. Paul College Foundation has a more profound message from the quotation written by Chiara Lubich: "When we worship you in the form of bread...we always see you as an adult. But every year at Christmas, you reveal yourself to us as a Child born in a crib, We stand in silent amazement."

The spirit of Christmas is everywhere!

And Hope, Love, Peace and Joy are strong words in the Christmas message, and the universal acceptance of Christmas has become much stronger, much more meaningful to most people in the Christian world.

Celebrating Christmas has been our family’s longtime tradition. And most families in our hometown, and every towns and cities, Christmas celebration started earlier by "Misa de Gallo", or the midnight

mass, leading to the Christmas Day. I remember when young, eight of us were plus my mom, Christmas celebration is very special. Apples, grapes and castanas were considered gold but Christmas is not complete without these imported fruits and nuts. Santa Claus was not the centre of our celebration, instead, the Christmas midnight mass, adoration to the "Nativity" reenactment.

We had lanterns or parol made

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by my brother, and from Coca Cola (20 caps collected could be exchanged by one lantern) hanging outside our home; our Christmas tree which was made of brush, trimmed to look like a pine tree had all the decorations made by my sisters like the Cadena (rounded construction paper chained together), some bells and balls; and to have a snow effect,we would put white cotton on top of every cone. After the Christmas Midnight Mass, the family heirloom, "arroz de

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valenciana" and"tsokolate E" were the centre of our "noche buena". Visit to our ninongs, ninangs and relatives would take the whole day of December 25th, our pockets were bulging with money and "tikoy".

And now, in Canada, our tradition continues: Christmas tree is decorated and lighted; Santa Claus has become the centre of gift giving, midnight mass is being celebrated and in spite of the cold weather, that "winter wonderland" gives us the real meaning of white Christmas; and gift-giving becomes a tradition by helping other charitable initiatives: we gather food for the Winnipeg Harvest, we donate to the Christmas Board, we share food with the less fortunate at Siloam Missions.

Let Hope, Love, Peace and Joy be the centre of your Christmas celebration.

And with a wisp of a wintry wind, gushing gently on my face, as the sun shines in the vast blue sky, and I say quietly with a fervent prayer, and a personal greeting to you and your family: ISANG MALIGAYANG PASKO SA INYONG LAHAT! (Merry Christmas To All)

December 2014

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‘Tis the Season

By Aurora Bernal – Born Archbishop MacDonald High SchoolGrade 11

Christmas! The most popular holiday of the year..... An occasion for merry-making, hospitality, and most important of all..... an expression of love for one another, our family, friends, neighbors and our nation.

As Christmas rolls around, I see the Christmas trees getting toted out as well as the wreaths and garlands. Often I look around the streets and feel the anticipation of everyone, of all religious Congregations, and this leaves me so pleased. To see that the whole world can join the festivity and joy, even though they may not be Christian, is a wonderful thing. I’m more than happy that this holiday has evolved past its exclusive nature and more towards a time where

everyone realizes we’re all on this planet together.

I acknowledge that Christmas is celebrating the birth of Christ, but the main concept of Christianity is “Love thy neighbour”.

That’s it, there’s no subclauses, no loopholes. If you are willing to open your heart to those different than you, then you have really grasped the roots of what this time of the year is about. In this society, everyone is so focused on others and rarely look at themselves. On top of the festivities of Christmas, it is also a time to reflect on yourself and ponder whether you are acting kind, because kindness is greatly appreciated by everyone. Christmas is also one of the few times a year families get together and be around each other. It is important in this fast-paced society to step back into the world that you are born into, amongst your family, whoever your family is to you.

Because Christmas precedes the New Year, don’t forget to use this time to renew yourself and enjoy yourself. Happy holidays!

Mag-aral ng English sa Norquest College Kung ikaw ay bagong dating sa Canada at nagnanais mapagbuti ang iyong kaalaman sa English, mapaunlad ang pangkabuhayan at pang-gawaing kakayahan, ang programang Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) ay nararapat sa iyo! Magsisimula ang klase sa Enero 5 na gaganapin sa aming kampus sa kabayanan.

Maaari kayong makapili sa alinmang talakdaan: • Martes at Huwebes mula ika 6:00 hanggang ika-9:00 ng gabi • Lunes hanggang Biyernes mula ika 1:00 hanggang ika-4:30 ng hapon Makipag-alam sa Catholic Social Services sa telepono 780.424.3545 upang malaman ang babayaran at pumunta sa Room A324 sa kampus ng NorQuest upang tapusin ang inyong aplikasyon.

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December 2014

Canada Cares for the Philippines 3 Filipino foreign workers When Typhoon Hagupit (Ruby) hit the Philippines on December 6th, 2014, Canada was already preparing a whole-of-government response, working closely with humanitarian partners. Photo

shows Finance Minister Joe Oliver & Senator Tobias Enverga announcing Canada's initial support of $120,000 to aid the victims of Typhoon Hagupit (Ruby) in the Philippines.

Witnessing the announcement were Pastor Julius & Bunny Tiangson of Mississauga, and Joaquin,Jr (Jojo) & Fe Taduran of Toronto. ***(Romy Zetazate, St. Jamestown News Service)***

killed in car crash

2nd tragic accident in less than a month

By Erlinda Dolly Tan

Bhullar named to special budget committee The Alberta Government is taking action to control spending. With the falling price of oil, Alberta’s resource revenues are expected to be lower and our population is expected to go higher. The combination poses some unique challenges for Alberta.

Premier Jim Prentice says the situation is not budgeting as usual. “Governing responsibly requires us to be disciplined with spending, prudent with revenues, and cautious with forecasts. We are taking action, and I have asked a team to devote their energy and attention to ensuring we make the right decisions for Albertans.”

To address these issues, the Premier has appointed a special committee to prepare the 2015 provincial budget. The group includes seven members of Cabinet, chaired by the Premier, and includes Calgary-Greenway MLA Manmeet Bhullar who is also

the Minister of Infrastructure.

The committee’s work begins immediately. They will work throughout the holiday period and will continue until the budget is introduced in the spring. The group will be looking at economic projections, capital and operating budgets, policy commitments, and revenue forecasts. Ministers are not receiving additional compensation for this special assignment.

The Government of Alberta is also taking action to control spending for the remainder of this fiscal year through cost containment measures. A number of actions are being taken to control spending in three main areas: Effective immediately, a hiring restraint initiative has been implemented. The intent is to limit any growth in overall staffing costs.

Hiring may still occur for positions that are critical to government operations or provide frontline

services to Albertans. These will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Public sector compensation is the largest driver of government expense, accounting for $22.5 billion in direct and indirect spending last fiscal year.

Spending on goods and services is to be limited, wherever possible, to those required to meet critical operational requirements or legal commitments.

Any discretionary grants, travel, training and other related costs are to be limited across government unless they are required to meet critical operational requirements or legal commitments.

Agencies, Boards and Commissions along with schools, universities, colleges and health authorities will also be asked to implement similar cost containment measures.

Three Filipino foreign workers were killed in another tragic car accident on December 13th at about 2:30 p.m. near Sylvan Lake.

The 4th person in the vehicle, the driver, survived the accident and was airlifted to the University of Alberta Hospital.

The driver might have lost control of the vehicle on the icy road as there was a freezing rain warning that day. The Ford Mustang he was driving, hit a ditch and in his effort to bring the car back to the road, slid to the center line and was hit from behind by a 5-tonne truck. All three passengers died on the spot.

Alcohol and speed were not considered factors of the accident.

Unfamiliarity with winter driving could have caused the tragic accident.

All four came from Red Deer after attending a language training and were on their way home to Rocky Mountain House.

The two passengers were young

couple who got married only last September. The driver who survived was their cousin. The other passenger who died was their co-worker. They worked at DQ and Panago restaurants. They have been in Canada for less than two years.

The names have not been released by RCMP as of press time, families in the Philippines are still being contacted.

This accident is second for the Filipino community in less than a month. Only last November 22nd four Filipino foreign workers were killed in an accident when the car they were in, hit a patch of ice, lost control and slid to the opposite lane colliding head-on with a tractor. All four died on the spot.

The community is still mourning the loss of the four and has not come to terms yet with what happened, when another one came.

Maestro Joel Valderrama conducting rehearsal for the Open Mic Finalists prod number.

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TV FILIPINO CANADA & ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL presents "OPEN MIC SINGING COMPETITION GRAND FINALS" On Saturday, December 27, 2014 at ARISTOCRAT RESTAURANT, door opens 6:00p.m. Tickets @ $15.00 only. Seats are limited-on a first come-first serve basis. Contact any of the finalists, or Aristocrat Restaurant (403) 452-7776, or (403) 397-8963. Follow us on Facebook: TV Filipino Canada.

Break the wall. Improve your English.

Download FREE English lessons at www.breakthewall.alberta.ca

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December 2014

Coming Home to my Abba Father

Alive in Christ

by Ferdie Gayos A Husband to a loving wife. A Father to 5 wonderful children. A Catechist and a Teacher in my own right sharing my Catholic faith. A Volunteer Worker for CFCFFL (Couples for Christ Foundation for Family and Life) and 4th Degree Knight of Columbus.

T

he most and immediate implication of opening up our lives to our Lord Jesus Christ and allowing Him to become flesh in our lives is our thirst to understand who we are and where are we going. Gen. 3:9 Then the Lord God called to the man, and said to him, 'Where are you?’ Imagine the Lord of lords, the omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent God can't find Adam?

Of course not, it was not a question of the physical location of Adam, but a question that demands Adam to search his heart. It was actually two significant questions and not one. The first about his origin and the second about his end. A search that all of us children of Adam and Eve continue to ask ourselves to this day. Do we know where we came from and know where we are going? They are inseparable questions and both belong to God, whatever happens in between is what we call our conversion process which we bring with us and present before Him when we stand humbly in the judgment throne of God. The lives and teachings of the apostles are our living testament of the power of the Holy Spirit. They are decisive for the meaning and orientation of our life and actions. Unless we fully understand both, we will never find the meaning of our existence and we will continue to drift along the tide of whatever our culture asks us to do. When we understand these questions and find the answer, nothing should bother us. The stock market can drop a thousand points

in a day, flight maybe delayed or cancelled, favorite team can lose, plans can fall apart, lose a job, diagnosed with a big C...etc... but our joyful outlook and deep inner peace will remain. I believe God created us with some kind of a homing device right there in our hearts. This maybe what St. Augustine was thinking when he said that 'our hearts are restless until if finds rest in God.' Man was created by God who is the source of all good. In His goodness, he created us so we can share the eternal joy of being with Him. We are in pain without really knowing and understanding it when we are separated from God. God is perfect and does need anyone or anything to be complete but for lack of righfully expressing the image in human language, let me say - God feels the same pain as Jesus expressed in the parable of the Prodigal Son. We have been away and God all this time has been longing for our return. I got to experience this feeling of longing in an incident that happened with my 7 year old son, Tim who is in grade 2. I used to pick him up from school at 2:40PM. One day while I was doing errands, I felt some kind of craving for a Tim Horton's coffee.

Being away from Canada for 3 years, I could not help but give in to the craving. I went and ordered a premium black coffee and a donut.

I was enjoying every sip and bite when I realized that it was almost 3:00 PM. I literally jump out of the store and heaven knows how many traffic laws I have violated rushing to the school. I arrived at the street which is empty by that time. There I could see him, shoulders dropped, walking and wandering in the field, his back against me. I see him clearly and the image will probably be eternally imprinted in my mind, but from a distance, I could feel his pain, and this feeling I will eternally remember. I called out to him but the field was wide and open and he was too far from me and could not hear me. I started running towards him while calling out his name and finally he turned around, saw me and called out to me too....Abba!

Like a motion picture, everything seemed to slow down like in a slow motion movie clip while we

Ronald Cantiveros

Publisher/Chief Operating Officer VP-Business Development Managing Editor

run towards each other and finally ended in each other's embrace.

Abba is a word of endearment for a father. Jesus taught us to call God - Abba Father and this is one moment I could relate that He is not teaching us some grammar or some historical or geographical lessons on relationship. He is trying to teach us that the answer to question he asked Adam is to come home to His loving embrace. We have forgotten where we came from and we have lost our sense of direction and the surest way to start afresh and new is to come back to the loving embrace of our Abba Father.

He is waiting for us to come and meet Him. He awaits us in the Eucharist not just as a cultural phenomenon that most of us do as we come only during Christmas, Easter and special occassions of our lives. He awaits us in the

Floyd Mayweather has called out Manny Pacquiao to fight him on May 2, increasing assumptions that the bout the whole world wants to see will finally happen.

Mayweather said in an interview last week broadcasted from San Antonio, USA that he is ready to fight Manny Pacquiao on May 2 next year. A MayweatherPacquiao fight is estimated to be worth upwards of a quarter of a billion US dollars.

Unbeaten in 47 fights Mayweather declared that his camp has been trying to make the fight happen behind the scenes years ago. He said Bob Arum fooled the fans into believing that he (Mayweather) is avoiding Pacquiao for years. The 37-yearold welterweight and junior middleweight champion added that the Filipino boxing legend is not on his level because of his consecutive losses to Bradley and Marquez and the low turn-out of his per-view numbers.

For his part, Pacquiao, who convincingly defeated Chris Algieri recently, suggested that the American champion has run

Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros Founder, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief- Filipino Journal 1987-2008

Pacquiao take drug and urine tests on fight day, the pay-perview rights between cable giants, Mayweather’s Showtime and Pacquiao’s HBO, and how the prized fighters will split the purse.

However Pacquiao claimed that money is not the issue in their fight, declaring that as early as January this year, he challenged him to a charity fight. He said the fight is about making the fans happy and for the good of the entire boxing world.

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out of options and has nowhere to run but to fight him. Pacquiao said that he will try his best to make the fight thrilling and entertaining fight, but added that he doubts if Mayweather will engage him in a slugfest. Pacquiao even poked fun at Mayweather’s defensive tactics in the ring by saying that most of his previous fights, if not all, induced the audience to sleep.

It appears that the main stumbling blocks to the fight have included Mayweather seeking

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Jose “Pepito” Magpayo

So then, let this Christmas be a different one for once. The baby Jesus is coming, He promised the Holy Spirit for those who asks.

Let us come and meet Him and experience the joy of His embrace.

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confessional box that we have tried to avoid for so many years as if we are the most perfect, sinless human being that have not committed any sin in our lives. He knows our pain and we can't hide it from Him and His invitation continues to echo deep down in our hearts.

Mega fight between Mayweather and Pacquiao on May 2

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December 2014

Business Eclectic

by Terry Robert B.A., C.M.A., C.G.A. terry@robertaccounting.ca Skimming through the internet recently, I came across this quote from comedian Fred Allen: "An income tax form is like a laundry list - either way you lose your shirt."

Allen, who died in 1956 expressed a sentiment that is long standing.

Most of us can feel the pain of writing a cheque to the government or seeing our pay cheque considerably reduced. Undoubtedly it got many laughs, but is there any more to it than humour?

Probably several times a year each of us will be offered an opportunity to pay less for some service or product. Statistics Canada estimates the underground economy in Canada to be $35 million. Does it make sense to concern ourselves if we can save a few dollars by paying someone less? Let’s look at a few examples.

Several years ago a young fellow took his car in for some body work. The amount he had saved was about $240 (PST and

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

GST) as the quote was similar to another of about $2,000. Within six months the poor work became apparent with rust coming through the paint. No cheque and no invoice meant no means to sue for poor service. Another situation involved a handyman doing yard work while collecting social assistance.

Not only was he not contributing to paying his share but he was benefitting unfairly from everyone else who were contributing to a civil society.

Often, it seems, we can have little effect. As well, we know there are wealthy people taking advantage of sometimes complicated schemes to avoid or even evade paying a fair share of taxes. We know some citizens have hidden money off shore and adequate measures are not being taken to find and prosecute.

We see banks too big to go bankrupt almost destroying the economies of countries but paying bonuses to the very people who caused the problems and without any sense of remorse or even embarrassment. We know there are currently proposed amendments to the income tax act that will benefit very few people and it will be those in Canada who are the most well off and privileged.

Does any of this justify either joining the underground economy or supporting it? Can we rationalize our cheating on income tax? I will argue “no”, for not only legal and ethical reasons but also for selfinterest. The self-interest comes from several directions. Preparing for retirement will be more difficult as you cannot contribute to pension funds with undeclared income or

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Papal chairs to reflect simplicity

education plans for your children.

Even having a bank account may be a bad idea if you don’t wish to come to the intention of the CRA. Or if you need to get a bank loan, just try applying if you have no declared income.

But it doesn’t stop there! If we support the underground economy, we actually increase our liability as tax payers. We have to pay more carry the costs of government plus we have to pay for the deadbeats who misuse the system during their working years and who also need assistance in their retirement because they don’t have the means to prepare for their own security in old age.

What should we do? We should pressure our government to make the system fairer and to chase down and punish the cheaters, not The three papal chairs to be used only the small cheater but also the by the Pontiff’s visit to Manila will large cheaters hiding their assets and be made of Philippine mahogany income off shore. We should also demand a fairer tax system.

The humour is fine, but I prefer the quote from Oliver Wendell Holmes Jr. "Taxes are the price we pay for civilization."

On that note, I wish all of you the best for the holidays and the New Year and that you be able to earn enough to pay lots of taxes.

Terry Robert B.A., C.M.A., C.G.A. Please note that this column deals with details and circumstances in a general way and comments are meant solely as a guide. For your protection, a professional accountant is recommended and should be consulted before making any decisions regarding anything discussed in this column.

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without many trimmings.

According to Robert Cruz, owner of VitreArtus, which was commissioned to craft the papal chairs and the altar, the simple but beautiful design will reflect Pope Francis’ taste for simplicity and will likewise mirror the Filipino touch.

The papal chairs will be used by the Argentine Pontiff at three scheduled events namely, the meeting with families at SM Mall of Asia Arena on Jan. 16, the event at the University of Santo Tomas and the Eucharistic celebration at Quirino Grandstand both on Jan. 18. At least 6 million Filipinos are expected to attend the Holy Mass at Luneta that will formally conclude the Pope’s apostolic visit to the Philippines.

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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.

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December 2014

Have a Taste of Persian World Music (An Album Review of Sehrang’s Dar Lahze, 2014)

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com The force of World music is strong in this one.

In Dar Lahze, the début album of Sehrang, the cultural origin of its members is inevitably apparent in the mood, vocal style, and instrumentation of the contents.

Their musical landscape has a texture of Persian folk and classical— very rhythm-based, emphasizing percussion and syncopation; and featuring a vocal style that combines tribal chanting, scat singing, and

tahrir (a type of an ornamental trill or a style of singing comparable to yodelling).

The strongest points of Dar Lahze may be found in two places— the cultural character of the vocal parts and the distinct sound of the setar and Persian guitar playing.

Dar Lahze begins with an introductory piece that evokes a picture of a group that is doing a soundcheck in an intimate venue, effectively setting the listener in a relaxed mood. It then carries the listener onto a journey to some somber places in the Middle East, by way of the heartwarming ballad “Noore Bade.” This contemplative feeling occurs again with the title track, “Dar Lahze”; but this time, with the ear-catching rustic melody of the setar. After indulging the listener to its slow parts, Sehrang’s Dar Lahze launches to a number of footstompers, particularly the percussive-heavy and funky “Use the Chance.” Ultimately, the album glows most brightly in “Noore

Bade,” “Morghe Sahar,” “Pari,” and “Mosafer”—all of which have captured the definitive style of Sehrang.

So, to those who are curious to taste Persian-rooted World music, Sehrang’s Dar Lahze is a sumptuous offering. In fact, even enthusiasts of Alternative music could partake in it—what with hints of Babacar, Cocteau Twins, Dead Can Dance, and Shelleyan Orphan.

Final Note Sehrang is a musical trio comprised by three Iranian musicians: Golnar Shahyar (vocals, percussion, songwriting), Mahan Mirarab (guitar, fretless guitar, setar, composition), and Shayan Fathi (drums, percussion). The individual and collective styles and the proficiency in the respective craft and instruments of these artists are what give their group a unique shape and sound. In English, the Farsi (Persian) phrase ‘dar lahze’ means “in the moment.”

World music, for the most part, refers to a cultural or regional blend of classical, folk, and jazz. It usually showcases musical instruments or sound elements local, native, or distinct to the culture or region the artists hail from. Having said this,

one primary challenge in listening to World music is for the listener to become familiar first with the roots of the particular artist she is listening to and to the typical characteristics of the music from that culture.

Skate, swim and dance into 2015 with The City of Calgary’s New Year’s Eve celebrations Filed by Jose Pepito G. Magpayo

This New Year’s Eve, Calgarians can ring in 2015 with a free Outdoor Celebration and count down to midnight at Olympic Plaza, a free Family Dance Party at the Municipal Building atrium, or a Family Pool Party at Village Square Leisure Centre.

where festivities run from 9 p.m. to midnight. Bundle up, bring your ice skates or borrow from us onsite, and cuddle up by the firepit and sip hot chocolate. Enjoy music, ice sculptures and fantastic fire dance performances. Grab your sweetie for that News Year’s kiss, and watch the spectacular countdown officially ring in Outdoor Celebration AB Filipino Journal Dec 5 2014.doc 6”wtox 6” h Count down to midnight with 2015. a winter party at Olympic Plaza

Family Dance Party Taking place at the Municipal Building from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m., the Family Dance Party is a free, safe and warm way to celebrate with dancing, games, crafts and living statues. Wear neon, white or anything that glows, and join in on the kid’s countdown at 9 p.m.

swim, jump, splash and slide their way into 2015 with a pool party at Village Square Leisure Centre from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Boogie to the sounds of a DJ in the wave pool with inflatable toys, nuclear balls and bouncers. The party also includes crafts, treats, prizes, and a pool party countdown! Regular admission rates apply.

Family Pool Party “New Year’s celebrations at Families can also choose to Olympic Plaza and the Municipal Building are always some of the best,” said Mayor Naheed Nenshi.

“This year’s festivities are a chance for Calgarians of all ages to ring in 2015 together in our Malakas Ang Laban! great public spaces”

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“However you celebrate this New Year’s Eve, please make a plan to get home safely,” said Mayor Nenshi. “I’m very pleased to see that Calgary Transit is piloting late night buses and CTrains that will run until 3 a.m.

So have a very Happy New Year, Calgary! Here’s to a wonderful and prosperous 2015.”

For more information on The City of Calgary’s New Year’s Eve Celebrations visit,calgary.ca/nye or call 311.

For information on the public transit available on New Year’s Eve, visitcalgarytransit.com

December 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

11

2015 Nissan Micra SV Cute & affordable starting under $10k

My Ride

by Ron

Cantiveros

ron@filipinojournal.com I remember when Nissan Canada announced the Nissan Micra would be available for under $10,000 at last year's Canadian International Autoshow in Toronto.

I instantly thought of the many new immigrants and temporary foreign workers that are usually looking for the best and most affordable option for their first vehicle in Canada.

The base Nissan Micra S model starts at $9,998, and is equipped with a manual transmission, rolldown windows and no air. The media test model provided was the Nissan Micra SV model that was equipped with automatic transmission, power windows, power locks, air conditioning and a cute but tiny 4.3" display with a backup camera.

As one passenger remarked during my week long review, it's a cute car. It's affordable and economical. I'm trying to recall the last time I was in a car that had rolldown windows. Power windows

is such a luxury and is taken for granted but is nearly one of those car features that is standard in almost all new cars today.

The Nissan Micra returns to Canada after a 22-year absence.

Interestingly enough, I also recall that the Nissan Micra would only be sold in Canada and not in the United States.

The interior of the Micra is very spartan with simple controls for the radio, climate controls and the buttons on the steering wheel.

The interior is made up of hard plastics on the dash and cloth on the seats.

Under the hood, the Nissan Micra SV is equipped with 1.6L 4-cyclinder engine that pumps out an amazing 109hp and 107 lb.ft. torque. It handles well at city speeds under 80km/hr. Driving it on the highways at 100km/hr, the engine humming was noticeable.

The Nissan Micra SV is a good car for urban warriors and great for parking in the smallest of parking spots. Storage space in the back hatch is good and even better when the rear seats are folded down to provide for more cargo space.

Great for trips to the grocery store, or the mall for all your Christmas shopping.

Other cars in the subcompact segment include the Ford Fiesta, Toyota Yaris, Mitsubishi Mirage, Mazda 2 and the Chevrolet Spark.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Auction of Dolphy’s properties to raise funds for foundation

Bank CEO produces Christmas album The Chairman and CEO of Philippine Veterans Bank, former Finance Secretary Roberto “Bobby” F. de Ocampo, is the associate producer of a Christmas album recorded during a concert performance at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Armagh, Ireland.

The album was released by Libera, an all-boys choir formed in 1999. The album titled “Christmas in Ireland” contains 17 timeless Christmas tracks. Libera, which was also brought by de Ocampo to the Philippines for concerts,

has already recorded eight albums for EMI (now Warner Classics).

Their singing talent brought them to various countries around the

December 2014

Actor Eric Quizon, who acts as administrator of the real estate properties left by the late Comedy King Dolphy, revealed that the family will auction some of the properties in an event dubbed as “The Dolphy Estate Auction Some of the properties include lots in Batangas, Antipolo, Cavite, Bulacan, Baguio and Samar. Eric world. They have worked with said the properties remained idle some of the biggest international for sometimes now. The family singers including Elton John and decided to dispose it to raise funds Luciano Pavarotti. for projects honoring their father, Those interested to join the including the Laughter Museum.

Part of the proceeds will also benefit auction are invited to register at the Dolphy Aid para sa Pinoy www.hmrauctions.com starting Jan. 12 next year.

Foundation.

Films on Filipinos get nominations in US Academy Awards Three foreign language film nominees in the prestigious Oscars feature Filipino actors. “Metro Manila,” is Britain’s nominee as best foreign language film. The other two are Singapore’s entry “Ilo Ilo,” and the Philippines’ nominee “Transit.”

Written and directed by Briton Sean Ellis, “Metro Manila,” is about the sacrifices and hopes of a poor family from the countryside that tries its luck in the filthy parts of Manila.

Singapore’s entry “Ilo Ilo” is the story of a Filipino nanny who works for a Singaporean family. The Philippines’

nominee “Transit” deals with the efforts of migrant Filipino workers in Israel, The US film academy selection process for next year’s Oscars involves choosing a long list of finalists in January which will be trimmed down to five finalists in February. The winners will be announced in March.

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Paris filmfest to screen Filipino short films A total of seven short films crafted by Filipino filmmakers, are scheduled for screening at the ongoing 12th Festival International Signes de Nuit in Paris.These are “Ang Katapusang Bagting” by Remton SiegaZuasola, “Dahil sa ’Yo” by Gym Lumbera, “Despedida” by Borgy

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Torre, “Manenaya” by Richard Soriano Legaspi, “Mientras Su Durmida” by Sheron Dayoc, “Missing” by Zig Dulay, and “Ulian” by Chuck Gutierrez.

Among the members of the international jury is Anna Isabelle Matutina, a filmmaker from the Philippines.

13

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

December 2014

TV Filipino Canada Partnered with SSS On Its Briefing and Onsite Services in Calgary

by: Jerry Caingcoy

For the second time around, the Social Security System delegation from the Philippines headed by its Senior Vice-President - Account Management and International Operations, Judy Frances See together with Joy Villacorta, OFW Management Department Manager and Roberto Roldan, SSS Hongkong Representative who will be based in Toronto’s new SSS office in 2015 held a highly successful SSS Briefing and Onsite Services in Canada. The last SSS Briefing and Onsite Services was held in 2013.

The SSS briefing and Onsite Services was aimed at providing information to all Filipinos living abroad on how they can take advantage of its various services.

Onsite services provided by SSS during the event includes registration of new members, reactivation of existing members / verification of existing records, Flexi-fund enrollment for safe and secure savings, member and pensioner data amendments and assistance in compliance with the Annual

Confirmation of Pensioners (ACOP) Program.

Jose Pepito Magpayo, TV Filipino Canada Executive Producer in cooperation with the Honorary Consul General of Edmonton, Hon. Esmeralda Agbulos, Philippine Embassy in Ottawa and the SSS Philippines delegation joined forces to make the Calgary event another milestone. iRemit Calgary, SSS accredited e-payment centre headed by its Office Manager, Carmen Baladad and staff extended valuable support as well.

The Filipino community in Calgary warmly welcomed the SSS delegates and expressed so much appreciation and interest on the various services and benefits that were explained in full details during the briefing.

Jerry Caingcoy, TV Filipino Canada Host through his notable Filipino public service TV segment “Ikaw at Ako Filipino Tayo” interviewed Judy Frances See, SSS Senior VicePresident - Account Management and International Operations to conclude the event.

The interview was aired (with replays) on Shaw TV Channel 89 in order to widely disseminate the SSS information especially to those who were not able to attend the briefing and to reach out to many Filipinos in Calgary and the rest of Alberta. It is estimated that there are more than 150,000 Filipinos living in Alberta.

During the TV Filipino Canada interview, Judy Frances

See accentuated the eligibility of membership, member entitlements and the various salient features of the program. She further expounded the Flexi-fund program that allows every OFW to intentionally save and maximize their earning potential.

Judy Frances See encouraged the Filipinos living abroad to put importance in saving a portion of their income and take advantage of the SSS various services which is considered as a very affordable insurance program.

December 7, 2014 (Sunday) - 1 am to 6 pm - Palabok House, 10525 51 Avenue, Edmonton, AB T6H 0K5 December 8, 2014 (Monday) - West Edmonton Mall Branch December 10, 2014 (Wednesday) - 4 pm to 9 pm - Aristocrat Restaurant, 3460 17

Avenue SE, Calagary AB T2A 0R4 December 12, 2014 (Friday) - 10 am to 4 pm - iRemit Calgary, Pacific Mall Branch For more information, send an email to ofw.relations@sss.gov.ph or visit www.sss.gov.ph. You can also call (632)364-7796 or (632)364-7798.

The events were held on: Dec 5 , 2014 (Friday) - 9 am to 6 pm - Philippine Consulate General, Toronto (161 Eglinton Avenue, Toronto, ON M4P 1J5 Dec 6, 2014 (Saturday) - 9 am to 1 pm - St. Paschal Baylon Church, 92 Steeles Avenue West, Paschal Baylon Church

HAVING CAR TROUBLE. WON’T MAKE DINNER. Don’t let car trouble ruin your entire day. Sign up for an AMA membership and rest assured that if something does go wrong, we’ll get you back on the road as quickly as possible.

What are you waiting for? Become a member today.

JOIN TODAY. 1.800.222.6400 ama.ab.ca/JoinToday

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

Calgary Police Commission Re-Elects Chair Filed by Jose Pepito G. Magpayo

Calgary (Nov 28, 2013) - The Calgary Police Commission has re-elected Rodney (Rod) Fong as Chair for the upcoming 2015 Commission year.

The Commission’s annual Organizational Meeting occurred Tuesday, November 25, 2014, in the Calgary Police Commission boardroom.

Mr. Fong was appointed to the Calgary Police Commission in January 2011. This is his second term as Chair. Prior to this election, he served as ViceChair of the Commission for the 2012 Commission year. Mr. Fong brings a wealth of experience to his role as Commission Chair, including serving as Chair of the Lethbridge Regional Police Commission prior to moving to Calgary. He has previous experience in governance having served as a board member for the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT), the Alberta Association of Police Governance , the provincial board of directors for Community Savings Credit Union, as President of Lethbridge Family Services, as Vice-Chair of the board of trustees for Lethbridge

Public School District 51 and as a Senator for the University of Alberta. Mr. Fong is a lawyer and received his LLB from the University of Calgary in 1991.

“I would like to thank the Commission members for their vote of confidence in my abilities to serve as their chair,” said Mr. Fong. “We had a successful year in 2014 and look forward to working closely with Chief Hanson and his Executive in the implementation of the new Business Plan. We will work hard to maintain the strong confidence that Calgarians have in their police service and to foster our community partnerships and positive relationships between the Calgary Police Service and all levels of government. I know that the Commission, Chief Hanson and City Council are committed to ensuring that Calgarians continue to receive the high level of service which they have come to enjoy and expect from the Calgary Police Service.“ “We would like to thank our departing Commissioners Michael Ervin and Councilor Shane Keating for their dedication to the Commission. We welcome Johnathan Liu and Councilor

Ward Sutherland and look forward to their contributions. I would also like to congratulate both Howard Shikaze and Lisa Silver on their re-elections as Vice-Chairs for the upcoming Commission year. ” Appointments to the Calgary Police Commission are made

by City Council. This year’s Commission members, along with Mr. Fong, are: Councilor Diane Colley-Urquhart; Steve Edwards; Stephanie Felesky; Karen Gallagher-Burt; Johnathan Liu; Jonathan Perkins; Howard Shikaze; Lisa Silver; and Councilor Ward Sutherland.

The Calgary Police Commission provides civilian oversight to the Calgary Police Service. Under the Police Act the Calgary Police Commission establishes policies to provide for efficient and effective policing; in consultation with the chief of police, allocates funds provided

by City Council; and monitors the complaint process.

Public Contact Information Calgary Police Commission Tel: 403-428-8914 Email: cpced@ calgarypolicecommission.ca

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December 2014

Canada contributes $ 5 million to victims of Typhoon Hagupit Senator Enverga joins Minister Paradis announcing support to those affected by Typhoon Hagupit The Honourable Tobias C. Enverga Jr, Senator from Ontario, joined the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and La Francophonie, who hosted a roundtable meeting with members of Montréal’s Filipino-Canadian community today and announced a commitment of $5 million in additional humanitarian assistance to help meet the urgent needs of those affected by Typhoon Hagupit.

“It is heartbreaking that the people of the Philippines have been hit once again with such a destructive typhoon while still dealing with the devastation caused

by Typhoon Haiyan just over a year ago,” said Minister Paradis.

“Canada’s support will help to respond to needs identified by the Government of the Philippines, such as for water, sanitation, emergency shelter, and other essential relief items for those affected by the typhoon.”

“Our government’s commitment to repeatedly assist the people of the Philippines is proof of the growing ties between our two countries,” said Senator Enverga.

“As Canada’s first Filipino Canadian senator, it warms my heart to see that my new homeland shows such care for the country of my birth.”

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Typhoon Hagupit first hit the Philippines as a Category 3 typhoon on December 6, 2014, making it the most powerful storm to hit the Philippines this year. Hagupit has affected nearly 2.8 million people, and more than 43,000 houses have been damaged across the affected areas. The Government of the Philippines has confirmed 18 deaths, and more than 1.7 million people have been evacuated.

Typhoon Hagupit also impacted some areas already affected by Typhoon Haiyan just over a year ago. To that end, Minister Paradis also announced last week that Canada will be extending the deadline for the Typhoon Haiyan Reconstruction Assistance Call for Proposals to February 13, 2015. This will give Canadian organizations on the ground more time to mobilize their responses to Typhoon Hagupit, as needed, and to consider Hagupit’s implications in Haiyan-affected areas.

“Canada is steadfast in its commitment to helping the Filipino people in their efforts to restore their livelihoods and build a better future for their country,” reiterated Minister Paradis. “Canada was proud to help in the relief effort in 2013, and we are proud to assist again this year.”

December 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

15

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.

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December 2014

Alberta Filipino Journal’s Meet Our Kababayans Series (Our December Feature): “Hermo Pagtakhan, Our Very Helpful & Makabayan Family Services Counsellor” AFJ: “Thank you for agreeing to sit down with us for this Interview and congratulations as well, on your recently concluded and very successful UNDAS 2014 sa EVERGREEN Event.

HTP: “Actually, I should be the one to thank you Folks at ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL and to the Edmonton Filipino Community for your Support which made our UNDAS 2014 a huge Success. I also wish to thank you for setting up this Interview which will give me the opportunity to deliver my Message and Information to our Dear For the first time, Edmonton’s Readers especially our Kababayans Filipino Community joined hands across Alberta and Canada. last November 1, 2014 to celebrate the Filipino Tradition of UNDAS AFJ: “I see here from your Business or TODOS LOS SANTOS or Card that you are a Family Services ALL-SAINTS DAY in Edmonton. Director with Arbor Memorial. Please The Event dubbed as “UNDAS describe to us the nature of your Job 2014 SA EVERGREEN” was a with Arbor Memorial?” tremendous Success! The Man behind the UNDAS Event is one of our HTP: “First of all Pareng Jun, I Kababayans, a long-time Community wish to emphasize right from the Leader and Advocate HERMO T. start for the benefit of our dear PAGTAKHAN who is also a Family Readers that I consider what I do Services Counsellor with ARBOR now with ARBOR MEMORIAL MEMORIAL at EVERGREEN. as more than a Job or a Career but ALBERTA FILIPINO JOURNAL more appropriately, a VOCATION, sat down for a One-on-One Interview a SPIRITUAL CALLING. You see with HERMO. there’s a big difference between the

two Terms. While a Job or Career holds its own importance—the most obvious is earning an income — a person’s VOCATION evokes inmost gifts, abilities, passions, dreams and broader life purpose. Vocation is an occupation that someone feels strongly about doing, despite monetary gain or other influences.

Therefore, everyone’s Vocation should be what they feel compelled to do because it gives a deeper meaning to life as well as added meaning within us.”

AFJ: “Well, thanks for pointing out the Distinction between the two Terms Pareng Hermo. I see here from your Business Card that you are a Family Services Director with Arbor Memorial. Please describe to us the Nature of your VOCATION with ARBOR MEMORIAL?” HTP: “My VOCATION deals with SERVING and HELPING FAMILIES ACHIEVE PEACE OF MIND. I HELP Families achieve Peace of Mind by educating and giving them IMPORTANT INFORMATION on the VALUE of PLANNING AHEAD and MAKING DECISIONS TOGETHER and ahead of Time rather than during the MOST DIFFICULT Experience of Human Existence.”

AFJ: “and HOW do you do that Pareng HERMO?” HTP: “I HELP ELIMINATE STRESS and CONFUSION associated with Death for the Families. This can be done IN ADVANCE – Ahead of Time rather than at the MOST DIFFICULT TIME of the Family’s Life. What I do is I sit down with Families and I go through an Estate Planner or Family Registry (which is like a Back-up to a Last Will) and I also go through ALL of the OPTIONS available to Families. This is HOW a Family CAN ELIMINATE CONFUSION when a Death occurs. Over a cup of coffee, I can do this with the Family members.

My SPIRITUAL MISSION is to reach out to as many Families and to MAKE SURE that NO FAMILY is UNINFORMED and UNPREPARED for the MOST DIFFICULT TIME of their LIVES. WITH DEEP GENUINE CONCERN & CARING SENSITIVITY, I SERVE OUR FAMILIES & OUR SOCIETY IN A PROFESSIONAL, ETHICAL & CARING MANNER"

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AFJ: "and how is your experience so importantly, You Do It out of Love far? and Compassion for your Family and Loved Ones. Pain is inevitable when HTP: “The REASON WHY I am you lose a Loved One, but Misery into this Calling or VOCATION and and Stress are optional. With proper the Greatest Thing about WHAT I DO Planning ahead of time, One will be is that I am in a POSITION to HELP able to ensure that His Thoughts and and CHANGE PEOPLE'S LIVES Wishes are going to be carried out.

FOR THE BETTER. It is the most His Family will have the Benefits of incredible platform for influence that Price Protection. More importantly, you could imagine- So, I in that way, Everyone will enjoy the Benefits of AM VALIDATED because I am very having Peace of Mind. clear about WHAT MY PURPOSE I Give out ALL of this VERY ON EARTH IS. I am very clear that IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR my Calling or Vocation is JUST a WAY FREE and AT NO OBLIGATION OF ME MANIFESTING MYSELF through our “FREE INFORMATION AS A VESSEL, A VEHICLE (AN WITHOUT OBLIGATION” INSTRUMENT) of GOD FOR THE Program.

I encourage everyone LARGER UNIVERSAL PURPOSE to take advantage of our “FREE THAT is to HELP the Families in INFORMATION WITHOUT particular and Society in general. OBLIGATION” Program.

Just THAT'S WHAT IT IS! call me to book an appointment and I would be most pleased to HELP AFJ: “Any Final Thoughts Pareng and ASSIST you with our FREE Hermo?”

INFORMATION. Incidentally, I wish to point out HTP: “Cemetery and Funeral plans that just recently our Community has will be a consideration for us all at experienced losing some Kababayans some point in time. And, although (all of whom are Temporary Foreign planning one's own Cemetery Workers) to tragic motor vehicle and funeral in advance may be accidents. This really bothered me uncomfortable, it offers advantages. that our Fellow Kababayans TFWs "At-need" arrangements are the more do not have adequate Protection in difficult because time is of the essence case something happens to them and survivors are dealing with the here in Canada. As part of my ongrief of their loss. Making Cemetery going Community Service, I have and funeral plans before you need designed a PROTECTION PLAN them avoids many difficulties -- and FOR OUR TFWs with the help it doesn't have to be an uncomfortable and support of my Manager Brent task. In fact, millions of people choose Hatton of ARBOR MEMORIAL at to pre-arrange their cemetery and EVERGREEN to help protect our funeral every year. After all, cemetery TFWs Kababayans in the event of and funeral arrangements will be a Disasters such as car accidents. The consideration for us all at some point PROTECTION PLAN or PROJECT in time and there are advantages “TULONG AT KALINGA PARA to making them in advance. Aside SA KABABAYAN” (“PROJECT from the obvious “Price Protection” KALINGA”) aims to SERVE our reason, Pre-Planning also provides TFWs by giving them and their the PEACE OF MIND of knowing Families back in the Philippines that "your affairs are in order." You'll SECURITY and PROTECTION be comforted by the assurance that and PEACE OF MIND. I welcome your family and friends will be any and all of our KABABAYANS relieved of the burden of making TFWs to take advantage of very good funeral arrangements when you die. and comprehensive coverage at very And you'll have the satisfaction of reasonable preferred rates. They can knowing that they will appreciate contact me for a Free Information your concern for their well-being. without Obligation Meeting to discuss the details of the Plan Think about this: Would you AFJ: “Thank you very much for your feel comfortable that Someone else time and the valuable Information is going to Decide and Run your Life you shared with us here today Pareng for You? Of course, not. By having a HERMO!” Plan ahead of Time, You shape your HTP: “Thank you very much as well to Own Destiny, You Control Your you Pareng Jun and to the ALBERTA Own Life and more importantly, You FILIPINO JOURNAL, GOD BLESS Make the Decisions that are Right and MERRY CHRISTMAS TO for You and Your Loved Ones. More ALL!!!”

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December 2014

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Open Letter From Maan Bermillo

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.

This message was sent to me by Ms. Maan Bermilo, the wife of Archie Bermillo, one of the car accident victims. Expressing her intensed feelings and extending a heartfelt gratitude for all the support that the Albertans, Edmontonians, especially the Filipino Community have shown during her times of sorrow and grief: Dear Kuya Lito, We are beyond heartbroken to share this devastating news: "On November 22, I lost Archie, my husband, my bestfriend, my soulmate, my one true love.

We've been together for a while , and those were the happiest of my life and way too short. Our courtship was difficult as we had to overcome distance, but that didn’t worry us., thanks to Skype, Viber and Tango. I want everybody to know how much he loved Raiven,

his son who looked a lot like him.

I still remember one conversation I had with him. We were talking about Raiven , he had lots of dreams for him. He was a proud Father and loves to flaunt his son to his friends.

Archie lived his life the best way he could. He was well loved and the type of person you can’t get enough of. His incredible smile and laugh, singing bee master, "crush ng bayan" ," wanna be chef ", his attention to detail, his love of friends and family-- he was all that and more. He taught me how to let myself go and dance, how to feel highs and lows, how to become a better person day after day. He taught me how to live and to love.

I love you my darling husband.

I want to thank all of you out there for the expressions of sorrow and encouragement. I feel so supported by the Triskelions' Grand Fraternity and Sorority Canada national and Northern Alberta Regional Council, Kuya Tolits, thank you for your words of encouragement and advice, Bossing Joven and kuya Abet thank you for the transportation.Anne Punkrasia Madrideo, Sai Concha Albasin Eugenio, Janice Hermosado, Faith Dorin Albania thank you for the company and comfort you provided. To Honourable Naresh Bhardwaj, MLA Edmonton Ellerslie, Ninang Dory Gonzales (Constituency Manager at the constituency office of the MLA for Edmonton Ellerslie, Tita Dambie, Mr. Carlito M. Benito (Senior Vice president, Regulated Immigration Consultant, Former member of Alberta Provincial Parliament), Esmeralda P. Agbulos (Consul General a.h. ), thank you for your

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contribution in honor of Archie’s memory touched us deeply.To Father James Corrigan-jim ,thank you for your support, ministry, and your words are inspirational and was a comfort for all who attended.

To the choir of St. Theresa Cathoilic churh of Millwoods, Edmoton ,we are thankful for the beautiful song you provided . To Mike Torbeigh (Fat Burger Franchise owner), thank for your having a kind heart , for your support and cooperation. To kuya Rogie of Rogie of Rolymie Bakery Salamat po . To all the Filipino community who raised funds for all the victims Thank you for your generosity and thoughtfulness, and may God bless you all.” MAraming, maraming Salamat po. To Edcel, Rochelle Diane Santos, Jennifer Sotelo Naguiat, Jeff Naguiat, Mercado Kris, Thank you for showing your love and care to Archie, he spoke often of his friendships with his many co-workers; I know you all meant a great deal to him. To Tita Maria Theresa Bermillo your presence and assistance is grately appreciated. To all our family and friends , we deeply appreciate all your expression of sympathy, prayers, and thoughts. I treasure all the likes and comments . So thank you from the bottom of my heart., to you all".

“I carry your heart with me (I carry it in my heart) I am never without it (anywhere I go you go, my dear; and whatever is done by only me is your doing, my darling) I fear no fate (for you are my fate, my sweet) I want no world (for beautiful you are my world, my true) and it’s you are whatever a moon has always meant and

whatever a sun will always sing is you here is the deepest secret nobody knows (here is the root of the root and the bud of the bud and the sky of the sky of a tree called life; which grows higher than the soul can hope or mind can hide) and this is the wonder that’s keeping the stars apart I carry your heart (I carry it in my heart)” E.E Cummings.

We love and miss you so much Honey. We will always remember you smiling, laughing and being awesome.

Rest In Peace my Darling Husband, Forever Loved Never Forgotten. My FOREVERMORE!

Cruisin' The Dub" with Santa Claus at the A&W Restaurant on 130 Avenue S.E., South Trail Crossing, Calgary, Alberta.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

December 2014

Horoscope Get down to work early on and plan to cross off the biggest items on your to-do-list. After that you'll be less eager to tackle complex jobs that demand attention to detail. This is your opportunity to make new friends and mix and mingle in general.

A down-to-earth aspect can help you plan ahead for the festivities or encourage you and a significant other to think about a vacation. You may be marching to a different tune, but it helps to avoid alienating your banker. Keep others in the loop and don't give in to the impulse to buy more than you can afford.

E-mails, letters, and phone calls could keep you busy answering messages. You may be in a hurry to get cards and presents in the mail, adding to your list of work. A desire to connect with friends from near and far and see what they're up to over the coming weeks could result in making plans. Your focus tends more to pleasure and fun times.

A desire to volunteer at a charity function may keep you busy.

You could be motivated to sacrifice your own enjoyment to give a hand to others in need. Your generosity will come back to you, though this might be the last thing on your mind.

Thoughts about security may act as a catalyst to get you thinking about how to earn more money. You may have a strong urge to start a business or expand on what you already own. You may decide to pool your resources and talents with those of someone else, increasing your chances of success.

Get everyday tasks sorted out as soon as possible and then work on organizing your holiday agenda. You’ll be ready for some fun! Romantic options look superb, with every indication that a love adventure is coming to you. This is a good time to treat your partner to a special date.

You seem to have taken the holiday season to heart, especially when it comes to buying gifts and enhancing the feel-good factor. However, to avoid feeling the pinch later, create a budget before you spend your first cent. Set limits and stay in control.

The holiday season gets off to a sociable start. You'll have no shortage of kisses under the mistletoe, as the week hints that an instant attraction or the potential to make a new friend who seems to support your ideas and ideals.

Christmas time gets off to a fabulous start for you - your social life is a blur of activity! You may not have much time to relax, especially if others place demands on your time. You're also in your element of networking and connecting with many people. This could be one of the happiest times of the year for you, with a chance to make new friends and perhaps find love.

A focus on your home zone means you'll be busy removing mess, cleaning up your place, and getting everything ready for an extravaganza. Unexpected guests might start to arrive, and your extended family could show up, too. If things get too hectic, get some rest and alone time. If you schedule in periods of quiet, you'll find solutions to problems and discover creative ideas you can play with.

Fun seems to take the place of work, encouraging you to kick back and enjoy the many social opportunities coming your way. You seem to be in an adventurous mood and willing to take a gamble with an idea or plan. Travel and the chance to expand your horizons may also set you thinking of ways to escape from routine.

The lineup in your career sector highlights important goals and key ambitions. If you've dreamed of expanding your options, reach out to others who can share their experiences and general knowledge. You may find your intuitive awareness ratchets up, helping you make almost immediate decisions and come up with ideas with creative potential.

PAHALANG 1 Tagalog sa itchiness 5 Nakaupo sa sahig 11 Grain of gold 12 Batas 13 Alituntunin 15 Uugali 16 Tinanggalan 18 Lantihanun: sagisag 19 Rangya 20 Laong bigas 22 Sambit ng nagulat 23 Desisyon sa boksing

PABABA 24 Tatak ng ballpen 27 Ate Guy 29 Kalaban ng tinapay 30 Pangalan ng lalake 32 Tahanan ng hayop 34 Bayan sa Ilocos 36 Ikabit ang "ribbon" 37 Sumakto 40 Paghahanap 41 Tawagan ng mga ginang

1 Banda roon 2 Sumapi 3 Titigil 4 Tauhan sa Bibliya 5 Ika-6 na nota 6 Bumabait 7 Pananong 8 Answer: daglat 9 Layunin: Ingles 10 Pulo 17 Pantukoy 21 Imbi

23 Katulad ng taekwando : pantitik 25 Nainis 26 Di Pagpansin: Ingles 28 Lugar sa hapon 29 Tatalos 30 Itlog sa Pampango 31 Uri ng ahedres 33 Pantukoy 35 Punit pag inulit 38 Hulapi

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

6 3 9 7 1 5 9 6 1

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December 2014

2014 Newsmakers as the “Museum of Corruption” was opened to the public, it was adorned with gold toilet fixtures, gold chandelier and other excessive decorations.

A maple-coated Filipino Heart

by Erlinda

Dolly Tan

erlindatan@yahoo.com

Before we bid goodbye to 2014, let’s look back and have a brief review of the year that was. This is a mixture of politics, entertainment, calamities and all kinds of newsmakers, here and around the world, that sum up the Year of the Horse.

January -Rose Fostanes, 47, a Filipina caregiver in Israel, won the first season of “The X Factor Israel.”

She sang “This Is My Life” during the audition and surprised the whole nation of Israel with her golden deep-voice diva talent.

-A tragic fire broke in a small town in Quebec in a senior’s home called L’Isle-Verte killing an estimated of 32 and injuring 15 others. The victims were mostly 80 to 90+ years old.

February -Russia hosted a very successful 17 days Winter Olympics. Canada was 3rd on the Final Medal Standing.

Michael Christian Martinez became the first Filipino and Southeast Asian to compete in men’s figure skating in a Winter Olympics.

-Piers Morgan talkshow was axed by CNN after a collapse in rating.

-Ukraine President Viktor Yanukovych was ousted for siding with Russia instead of supporting the Eastern Europe Association agreement. Later his mansion dubbed

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

June -The famous Max’s Restaurant opened in Edmonton.

-The ban on hiring foreign workers in Alberta was lifted by the government subject to many conditions.

March -Genie Bouchard became the first -“12 Years a Slave” won as Best Canadian in history to reach a semiPicture in the Academy Awards. The final in a tennis grand slam. movie has a Canadian connection, the guy who saved the slave played July

by Brad Pitt, was a Canadian -The FIFA World Cup rocked carpenter. football fans around the world.

Brazil suffered a very painful and -Flight MH370 was flying from heartbreaking defeat in the semiKuala Lumpur to Beijing when it finals losing 1-7 to Germany. disappeared from the air. It was -Philippine population hit 100 carrying 239 passengers. It has not million. been found until today.

-Conflict between Israel and Palestine worsened.

-Alberta Premier Alison Redford -A plane crashed in Taiwan in a resigned after allegations she failed emergency landing, killed 51. had used public resources -Air Algerie plane with 116 on board inappropriately. She was the first crashed in Mali. female premiere of Alberta.

-Malaysian Flight MH17 was shot down by a missile at the border of April Ukraine and Russia for mistaken -South Korean Prime Minister identity, 295 people on board. apologized and resigned amid ferry -Albertan Darren Espanto won 1st disaster criticism. runner-up in the “The Voice Kids.”

-Ebola virus broke out.

-Pres. Obama visited Manila. The -Genie Bouchard became the first only president of any nation given Canadian in history to reach a finals utmost importance in the Philippines in a tennis grand slam. that they shutdown the airport for his arrival, closed down main August thoroughfares, declared a no-fly -Robin Williams committed suicide. zone and no-sail zone.

-Terrorist ISIS came to the picture killing innocent civilians and -Donald Sterling was banned at beheading children.

NBA for life for racist remarks in some private conversations with his September girlfriend.

-Pro-democracy rally in Hong Kong erupted, the students were calling for May free elections.

-Rob Ford, mayor of Canada's biggest -Corruption allegations versus Vice city Toronto, finally conceded when President Jejomar Binay broke out. a new video of him smoking crack Pictures of his alleged Batangas cocaine emerged. He took a leave of Mansion went viral. absence to seek professional help.

-Thailand declared Martial Law in October an attempt to end political unrest.

-The terrorist attack at the Parliament -Alberta opened the $12 million Hall in Ottawa by a lone gunman, a Glacier Skywallk. homegrown radicalized terrorist, shook the nation.

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-The Toronto election concluded with the defeat of Rob Ford’s brother, Doug.

-The “Jian Ghomeshi scandal” became a big topic in restaurants, parties, office, social media, etc.

-Former DOH Secretary Juan Flavier died. He was a respected and highly regarded village doctor. He was secretary of health before becoming a senator. He authored many propoor bills. He was small in stature but Jurassic in achievements.

November -Buffalo, New York was buried in 8 feet snow.

-Four Filipino foreign workers died in a car crash when the vehicle they were in, hit a patch of ice, slid to the other side of the road and hit an oncoming tractor.

-Rallies in the US escalated as a result of the jury’s decision not to indict a white police officer who shot a black guy.

-Manny Pacquiao won versus Chris Algieri in a unanimous decision burying speculations that he is now fading from greatness.

December -Typhoon Ruby (or Hagupit) battered Eastern Visayas again. Borongan, Eastern Samar suffered the worst flooding ever.

-Rallies in the US escalated even more when another white officer was not indicted in the chokehold death of another black guy.

-The world watched a hostage standoff in a café shop in Sydney, Australia.

So there you go, the year that was.

It’s subjective to say that it was a good year or a bad year. Depends on how one perceives the events that transpired. I personally would like to call it a year of plane tragedies.

We’ve never seen so much anguish for the loss of plane passengers.

Goodbye 2014, nevertheless, thank you for all the lessons the world has learned.

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Christmas tips for shoppers and retailers Filed by Jose Pepito G. Magpayo

With Christmas approaching and having your gifts ready being everyone’s fear, tis a good time of year to remind shoppers and merchants, naughty thieves may be near.

Little steps that we take and mistakes we may make, can all lead to mishaps, for Pete’s sake.

Remembering to put valuables out of sight and locking up your cars, will have you counting your lucky stars.

Taking the time to check cards, keeping an eye on the tills, will make sure you don’t get stuck with any nasty bills.

With a pinch of foresight and a dash of prevention, follow these tips and Christmas shopping can be done with very little tension.

Tips for shoppers: -Protect your PIN and look for any suspicious signs of tampering on the debit/credit machine.

-Use a shredder to discard personal documents with your credit card or banking info.

-Keep vehicle doors and windows locked.

-Remove or hide valuable items, including change and garage remotes from vehicles.

-Check your credit report periodically.

Tips for retailers: -Check sales equipment daily, ensuring nothing has been tampered with.

-Use a secured pin pad for credit and debit machines.

-Do not process manual inputs on credit card machines - always make sure to swipe or insert a chip card.

-Be weary of large quantities of gift cards being purchased by one individual, especially if being asked to manually input the credit card number.

-Keep an eye out for counterfeit U.S. money, with $50 and $100 bills being the favourites.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

by Gem & Lita Anis

Tallinn, Estonia: the Homeland of Skype and Hotmail It is the Baltic cruise that took us to Tallinn, Estonia in the Baltic region of northern Europe located between the countries of Latvia and Russia.

Surfing on the internet before the trip we have known a few things about the country which has been under foreign domination for most of its colourful history regaining its independence in 1991 after the disintegration of the Soviet Union.

Now a democratic parliamentary republic of 1.3 million inhabitants with a developed and advanced economy based on technology Estonia is the country where Skype, Kazaa and Hotmail were born. The Skype software was created by Estonianbased developers Ahti Heinla, Priit Kasesalu and Jaan Tallinn the same developers that have started the Kazaa, the peer-to-peer-sharing computer software that uses the Fastrack protocol. Estonian coders helped develop the code for Hotmail.

No wonder, this small country of 45,227 sq. kms. is described and well-known as one of the most wired countries globally. In 2007 it became the first country to allow on-line voting in a general

election. Its citizens can pay for parking spaces with their mobile phones. In 1994 it was the first country to implement the so-called flat income tax reform. Since 2009 Estonians have access to nationwide electronic health record system. All Estonian schools are connected to the internet.

Tallinn (means Danish town) is the capital and largest city of Estonia. A well-preserved medieval city, Tallinn is a beautiful combination of the Upper Town on the high limestone hill overlooking the Gulf of Finland and the Lower Town at its foot.

Its historic centre at the heart of the city is the Old Town, also known as Toompea, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997.

Through the Pikk Jalg gate tower we entered Toompea and soon reached the Castle Square (Lossi plats) which is dominated by the spectacular Russian Orthodox Church, the Alexander Nevsky Cathedral dating from 1900 with its onion-shaped cupolas and gilded icons. We continued walking along medieval cobbled streets to the famous 13th century Gothic dome Lutheran church,

the atmospheric Toomkirik, also known as St. Mary's Cathedral, Estonia's oldest church which contains magnificently carved tombstones and a Baroque altar.

On the same square stands the Tall Hermann Tower (Pikk Hermann), a defensive tower built in 1371. Atop the tower can be seen the blue black and white national flag as symbol of Estonian independence. Situated next to the tower is Toompea Castle which houses the Estonian unicameral Parliament, the "Riigikogu".

From the viewing platform on the Toompea Hill we enjoyed an excellent panoramic view of the Lower Town with its towers and steeples rising above the cluster of red-tiled roofs.

Our walking tour continued to the Lower Town - a web of narrow 13th century cobbled streets and arches and pastel-coloured houses.

We entered the Town Hall Square where two most outstanding buildings are: the Town Council's Apothecary and the Town Hall. At the square can be seen merchants' houses dating from the 15th century and some splendid guildhalls. To the east is the grandiose Kadriorg Palace built by Peter the Great in 1718 for his wife Catherine.

The palace houses the national collection of European art.

Also in the Lower Town are numerous bars and restaurants where you can order one of the popular delicacies of Estonia, the grilled marinated bear. (Bear meat is legal in this country.)

The last leg of our tour brought us to the western edge of Tallinn,

"Calling All U.E. (University of the East, C. M. Recto, Manila, Philippines) Alumni"

December 2014

The Alexander Nevsky Cathedral

the Rocca al Mare Open Air Museum that will let you travel back in time to the rual Estonia of old where a 19th century village life is recreated with its old wooden farmhouses, fishermens' houses, a wooden village church and school, and windmills.

We wound up the day watching folk dance and music performances by colourful local male and female dancers followed by coffee/ tea and barley bread.

In January, 2015, from Tallinn we'll cross the Gulf of Finland to explore Helsinki.

TRIVIA: The Estonian language is ranked as one of the toughest European languages to learn.

Gem & Lita at a souvenir shop in Lower Town, Tallinn

‘Simbang Gabi’ ushers in Nativity of Christ celebration

The pre-dawn “Simbang Gabi” We are invited to join the UEAA HAWAII - GLOBAL REUNION in Hawaii.

Please contact Jose "Pepito" G. Magpayo for info details - (403) 397-8963, e: tvpilipino@gmail.com novena masses will be held in Catholic Churches around country starting December 16.

Churchgoers offer the gift of sacrifice in waking up before the break of dawn for nine consecutive days to attend the dawn masses.

Church bells will peal very early as masses are held at 4 a.m. and 5 a.m. with the final mass, the Misa de Gallo, celebrated on Christmas

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Eve, Dec. 24, shortly before midnight.

The ‘Simbang Gabi’ dates back to 1565 when Spanish “conquistador” Miguel Lopez de Legazpi celebrated the first Feast of the Nativity. In the 16th century, Pope Sixtus V decreed that the dawn masses be held in the Philippines every 16th of December for the farmers who woke up very early to work.

December 2014

The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

YYC Holiday Travel Tips Filed by Jose Pepito G. Magpayo

(Calgary, AB) – December is the busiest time of year for those travelling through the Canada’s third busiest airport. To help you through the busy holiday travel season, here are some helpful tips to avoid stress or delays.

Arrive Early at YYC Be sure to leave plenty of time to get to the airport as there may be unpredictable weather and road conditions, along with increased passenger volumes. For those that arrive early, there will be a number of events taking place at the airport for travellers to enjoy, in addition to over 135 shops and services. Know what to pack and learn what to expect during the security process Passenger and baggage security screening at airports in Canada is provided by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA). For details on what you can pack, travel checklists and general information to help avoid delays during this important process, please go to www.catsa-acsta.gc.ca.

Know your check-in options and arrival time information Each airline sets its own recommended check-in time based on the destination. Be sure to check with your airline to find out the best time to arrive for your flight. Make sure to use your airline’s web check in services to save time. Check-in

as early as 24 hours prior to your departure, choose your seats and print your boarding passes in advance of your flight.

Check your airline’s website for more information.

Know your Baggage Allowances Each airline determines its own luggage allowance policies. Luggage restrictions can include weight, number of bags permitted, number of bags to be checked without charge, as well as size and number of carryon items permitted on-board.

Please check with your airline for more information.

Explore your Parking and Ground Transportation Options To help make your travel plans even smoother, YYC’s parking rate calculator and maps are available on yyc.com to help you find the best lot to match your parking needs. As December is YYC’s busiest time of year, parking spots do fill quickly, so you’ll want to leave some additional time to find parking when arriving at the airport. The good news is that we have a spot for everyone!

You can park closer this holiday season in YYC’s surface Economy Lot with rates as low as $10.95 per day or $49.95 per week. YYC offers attractive parking rates in all of its lots, including long-term parking in Parkade 2 for $99 per week and $119 per week in Parkade 1. With so many

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choices, parking at YYC has never been easier. Visit yyc.com for more information.

Picking someone up at YYC over the holidays? Don’t forget to use the Cell Phone Park and Wait lot.

The Cell Phone lot is located on the north side of Airport Road (just to the right as you enter YYC), before the parkade entrance—just look for the purple and white signs. Arriving passengers will be able to collect their items, call their ride waiting in the Cell Phone lot and meet them at the designated area on the Arrivals Level. Fast, easy and free! There is also 30-minute free parking available in the short-term parking area.

Other ground transportation options include taxis, sedans, the Airport Downtown Shuttle or Calgary Transit. Associated Cab and Allied Limousine are YYC’s on-demand taxi and sedan ground transportation services available on the Arrivals Level 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Don’t forget to download Associated Cab’s easy-touse and free app if you’re looking to book you’re trip to the airport.

Visit yyc.com for more information on these great transportation options.

Check out the Various YYC Events and Entertainment While visiting YYC over the holidays, be sure to check out one of the many festive events, or choirs or quartets performing throughout the airport: • YYC’s Festival of Trees

o Located throughout the airport and decorated in a variety of themes by our very own YYC community.

• Free Gift Wrapping o Volunteers will be wrapping presents behind security for those travelling through Concourses A and C from December 19 - 24.

• Story Time with Mrs.Claus o Mrs. Claus will be also dropping into YYC to read stories to children in Concourses A and C from December 19 - 24.

• Choirs, quartets and bands o Performing December 17 - 23 throughout the terminal building.

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will have a little something to help make your holidays even brighter.

For the full event schedule go to yyc. com.

ABOUT THE CALGARY AIRPORT AUTHORITY The Calgary Airport Authority is a not-for-profit organization incorporated under the Regional Airports Authorities Act of Alberta.

The Calgary Airport Authority is responsible for the management, operation and development of Calgary International (YYC) and Springbank (YBW) Airports. YYC is an important economic engine So whether you’re dropping for the city, region and province, someone off or travelling to visit generating over $8 billion per annum your loved ones this season, YYC in economic activity.

Get Home Safe Campaign - Partners encourage safe holiday celebrations Holiday parties are underway across the city, as businesses, friends and family celebrate the season. Because Big Rock Brewery, Associated Cabs and the Calgary Police Service want everyone to make it home safe and sound from celebrations, we are launching our 9th annual campaign to ask Calgarians to know their limits.

Starting Friday, Nov. 28, 2014, and through the month of December, a city wide campaign will urge patrons at bars and restaurants to

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act responsibly while enjoying the holidays and not get behind the wheel of a vehicle if they are impaired.

The campaign will involve more than 100 bars and restaurants in Calgary who display 350 posters and distribute more than 30,000 coasters. The phone number for Associated Cabs is prominently displayed on the promotional material, encouraging Calgarians to book a safe ride home.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

December 2014

Mahilig Ka Bang mag-Facebook?

(On the Positive Side

by aLfie vera mella elfideas102@yahoo.com

Maraming nagsasabi na aksaya lang ng panahon ang paggamit ng Facebook o ng kahit anupamang uri ng social media. Para sa akin, ang sentimyentong iyan ay galing lamang sa mga taong di marunong gumamit ng Internet technology o mga taong di alam kung paanong gamitin nang tama ang teknolohiyang ito.

Para sa taong hangad ay kaalaman, impormasyon, at ang maging bukas ang isipan sa mga pangyayari sa buong mundo, ang

kayang saktan. At ang mga taong ganoon ay masasama ang ugali at meron din lang mga kakulangan of Being a Netizen, or an Internet Denizen) at kahinaan na ikinukubli nila sa Internet, Facebook, o iba pang mahilig gumamit ng Internet o likod ng kanilang pagpapanggap. uri ng social media ay malaking Facebook, siguraduhin mo lang na tulong. malakas ang iyong loob, magaling Sa Madaling Salita Ang Facebook o Internet kang bumasa ng karakter ng isang Hindi masama o hindi ay para din lang naman tao kahit base lang sa paraan ng aksaya ng panahon ang paggamit tunay na kapaligiran—may kanyang pagsusulat at paggamit ng Facebook o ng iba pang aspeto mga masasamang tao, may ng mga salita, at uri ng mga isyu ng Internet. Ito ay depende sa mga manloloko, may mga na kanyang tinatalakay at hilig na kung paano mo ito ginagamit. mapagpanggap, may mga mapag-usapan.

Sa totoo lang e marami kang mapanglait, subalit meron din Hindi ka dapat mapikon matututunan dito. Kailangan mo naming mga matatalino’t bukal kung sakaling makaengkwentro nga lang ng talas ng pag-iisip, ang kalooban, mababait, at ka ng mga mapang-asar at tibay ng kalooban, at galing sa ginagamit sa tama ang kanilang mapanglait ng kapwa. Isipin on pagbasa ng karakter ng iyong karunungan. Kaya kung ikaw ay a lang na hindi ka naman nila mga nakakasalamuha.

Beth Aperocho Celebrates Birthday Beth Aperocho held her birthday celebration at Palabok House restaurant last Sunday November 30, 2014 attended by her families,

relatives and friends.Beth invited Vice President of FRAA and the also some of the members of past President of Filipino Nurses Filipino Retirees Association of Association of Alberta (FNAA).

Alberta (FRAA). She was the

Beth with her two sons Patrick & Gerald.

Beth Aperocho (The Celebrant)

Standing L-R Beth, Letty Tria, Robert Tria & Jun Angeles, Seated L-R Lulu Bernal, Fely and Art Santos & Hermie Angeles.

Special dance presentation performed by Minda and Ver Menoza.

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Edward Marquicias Turns One Congratulation Edward Marquicias on your first birthday. Your Dad William Marquicias and your mom Dessa Marquicias (RIP) are so glad and happy to see you grow to be a fine and handsome baby. Your celebration at Palabok House last Friday November 28, 2014 attended by your family, relatives and friends was a huge success. Your mom is looking down on you from heaven happy and contented knowing that you are in good hands with caring Dad, Grandpa Ike, Grandma Eva and Auntie Liezel.

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The pulse of the Filipino Community in Alberta, Canada

December 2014

Immigrant Investor Power-Sharing Venture Capital Pilot Program Lito Mendoza Velasco

Get connected from the PowerSource in order to be functional and strong.

Whatever is moved is moved he new Immigrant Investor effective pilot program that will by another. There should be an Venture Capital Pilot ensure that immigrants who come Unmoved-Mover, according to St. Program is part of a series to Canada deliver meaningful Thomas of Aquinas. He used this pronciple to prove God's existence.

T

of transformational changes that build on the Government’s commitment to build a fast and flexible economic immigration system. The newly unveiled pilot program in January 2015 to attract experienced business immigrants who can actively invest in the Canadian economy, stimulating innovation, economic growth and job creation.

In addition to making an investment of $2 million for a period of 15 years and having a net worth of $10 million, immigrant investors will be required to meet certain program eligibility criteria related to language and education, and have proven business or investment experience. This will ensure that immigrant investors will have a strong impact on the Canadian economy, and that those admitted for permanent residence will be well prepared to integrate into the Canadian business landscape and society.

This new pilot program will begin accepting applications in late January 2015 and will provide a pathway to permanent residence for approximately 50 immigrant investors and their families.

The creation of the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program fulfills the Government of Canada’s commitment in Economic Action Plan 2014 to create a more focused and

benefits to our economy.

Quick Facts • Immigrant investor programs are currently in place in more than 30 countries worldwide.

• The Government of Canada ended the previous Immigrant Investor Program and the Entrepreneur Program as neither program was determined to have contributed to Canada’s economic growth. Research indicated that immigrant investors under the previous programs were less likely than other immigrants to stay in Canada over the medium to long term.

• By requiring a non-guaranteed investment of $2 million and including more selection criteria for skills and abilities, the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program will test a new approach to immigrant investor programming in Canada.

• Investments into the Immigrant Investor Venture Capital fund will be used to seed innovative Canadian start-ups with high growth potential.

• Immigrant investors who are selected will be required to obtain a due diligence report from a designated service provider in order to prove that their net worth of at least $10 million has been obtained from lawful, profitmaking business activities.

The Inference If there is motion, the must be a mover; a mover which in itself not moved by another. But, there is motion, then, the is a mover. This mover is not moved by another and can be called an ultimate mover.

We called this Ultimate mover God, therefore, God exists.

Why Unmoved-Mover?

Simply because a mover which can be moved by another cannot be considered Ultimate Mover, and in the last analysis, cannot be the Ultimate Source of Power or Supreme Being.

The inference only shows that in any chain of command; there must always be an ultimate source of purpose and power.

The Situation and Syllogistic Presentation God is good; He created the world that is good; But, evil exists in the world; Therefore, God created evil that exists in the world.

What do you think?

We often say, everything that exists or happens in this world has a

life's Ultimate Cause. When we're born, our parents are the proximate cause. There exists a power-sharing between God and His Co- Creators.

2. Volcano errupts and the super purpose. Whose purpose though? storms wiped out even the hardest God's purpose? walls. Does this mean that God is St. Thomas proves that God exists participating evils? as the Almigthy. Some Theologians even say that God is the Creator of We have to remember that the every existing being. Not only that, NATURE has its own cause. The Polytheism believes that god exists volcano's purpose is to errupt in in everthing as there are so many order to arrange the tectonic plate gods. of the earth. Human beings were not encouraged to settle down at the The Arguments foot of any volcano. Certainly, the Natural catastrophies and tragic government has the proper zoning incidents happened. So many and preventive ordinance avoiding people's lives and livelihoods were and even prohibiting to reside in that devastated. In those situations, vicinity. Yet, they are there. And, can we say that God acted as the the sad fact, they blame God the ultimate cause to ruin and destruct moment their houses, livelihoods, His creation? And if God exists in and lives are taken away caused by everthing, would this mean that He is the erruption. a Self-Destructive God by destroying the things where he himself exists?

We again have to know that in the case of natural calamities, God is Clarification just the Proximate Cause and the The Supreme Being, though, He has Nature itself is the ultimate cause. the POWER over His Creation, only ALLOWS and PERMITS but He Lesson did not WILL to destroy all other Never blame God or even other creatures in the world. people for our misfortunes and failures. Let's all be accountable Remember, we were endowed with for our decision and action. Let's the FREEWILL, sharing and well all share not the disgrace and pains, equipped with the KNOWLEDGE but the love and the blessings that to be aware and choose whatever the Supreme Being has showered is best suited to our NEEDS. Here, upon us especially during this choosing beyond what we need is C H R I S T M A S - - S H A R I N G - no longer in accordance with His GIVING SEASON. purpose or plan.

Let me greet my son AARON The Purpose: Ultimate Cause vs JAVEZ VELASCO and my Proximate Cause cousin MARIANNE MINANO 1. Human being has been created to who celebrated their birthday last live and let others live. God is the December 8.

Daniel Matsunaga Ate Gay Kakai Bautista Aldred Gatchalian & Renzo

(Fil-Spanish Hollywood, California Singer)

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204-489-8894 Let's get social

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Fantasyland Hotel Ballroom West Edmonton Mall Edmonton, Alberta February 08, 2015 7:00pm FilipinoJournal. com

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December 2014