Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition August 05 - 20, 2023

The Filipino community joyously welcomed the Philippine delegation to the World Police and Fire Games last July 31 at the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba. Led by Police Lt. General Rhodel O. Sermonia, these exceptional athletes were honored with an evening of heartfelt testimonials, entertainment, and camaraderie. Gratitude resonates for the dedicated organizers, volunteers, and the entire community who orchestrated this memorable event. As World Police and Fire Games draws to a close, all eyes are set on the upcoming August 6 closing ceremony happening at The Forks CN Stage.

Photo by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino

"Ma-buhay" Fringe sneak preview fully paves the way to Rainbow Stage

Young Filipino artists' creative adrenaline exploded, leading the audience to a much-anticipated excitement for the full-length play next year

Review by Rod Escobar Cantiveros

The 12 young stage artists ruled the stage and raised the roof; and captured the audience as they strut their stuff with gusto when "MA-BUHAY!

The Road to Rainbow Stage", a 60-minute Workshop presentation with seven shows at the Tom Hendry Warehouse Theatre at the recently held Winnipeg Fringe Theatre Festival.

The footloose and too-fancyfree presentation " Ma-Buhay! Filipinos Singing For Their Lives", is a new musical written and directed by Joseph Sevillo, a seasoned stage actor with over 25 years in the limelight in acting, directing, choreography, teaching, and now, playwriting!

With Sevello's artistic multitasking skills, he was able to wave delicate stories of the three young Filipinos from different economic backgrounds as they join to compete in the Grand Finals of a prestigious singing competition, 'Star On The Rise' to show their singing prowess and to prove to the judges, their families and the country that they

are worthy of the national title! The three frontline characters, David, shy and highly religious, played by Brady Barrientos; Honey, joyfully gets into the groove, played by Victoria Esconde; and Celina, serious and passionate about her singing dream to be an aspiring

chanteuse whose feat is to be a much better singer than her mother, played by Jerilyn Bulaong; and added hearty spices to singing competition include Bea, as the host powered by her "gift of gab" and played by Rochelle Kives (who played also as Gloria, the mother of Celina);

Zac, mobile, comedic and has the hand to hold the stage with his antics, played by over-presence Jordan Quitana!

And the ensemble composed of Justin Bulaong, Josh Calabio, Dutchess Cayetano, Vina Dimayuga, Isabella Galman, Celes Manuel, and Shauldon Santos performed the choreography with pizzaz a stirring complement to the dramatic action of the three singing contestants.

The musical numbers embodied boldness in meaning, like the icing and the cake, the more you want to taste, the sweeter it has become on the last bite!

All had shone their innate talents and high-octane performances and is a tough act to follow.

Furthermore, the video presentation showing the dramaturg and Artistic Director of Rainbow Stage, Carson Nattrass having an interview with the director and playwright Joseph Sevillo added a dramatic undertone and glowing to the history-making new musical; furthermore, the flashing images on the screen added a subtle impact on the show.

On the road to Rainbow Stage, expect more strut in their stuffs! Guaranteed!

Photos by Rod Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

Nothing Compares to the Price of Courage against Mass Blindness (December 8, 1966–July 26, 2023)

Sa Báwat Páhinâ ng Pánitikan

To the uninitiated, the justdeparted Irish singer Sinead O'Connor catapulted to popularity after the release of her debut album, 1987's The Lion & the Cobra, which contained the song "Mandinka"; "Emperor's New Clothes" and the breakthrough single "Nothing Compares 2 U," on the other hand, were from the followup, 1990's I Don't Want What I Haven't Got. Eight albums more ensued, the last of which was 2014's I'm Not Bossy, I'm the Boss,

which spawned the fan-favorite "Take Me to Church.".

In 1992, her popularity turned to infamy (at least to the eyes of many blind or uninformed individuals) after her SNL performance that year, during which she tore apart a photo of Pope John Paul II, the then head of the Vatican and the Roman Catholic Church, which continues to cuddle the pedophiles and other sexually deviant individuals in its rank and cover up their crimes by paying off the aggrieved families and then transferring the erring persons to

different churches instead of reporting their crimes and surrendering them to police authorities.

The backlash was great, but O'Connor did not stopped from expressing her protests through interviews and especially her music. Sadly, she apparently suffered also from mental struggles, most likely intensified by society's disapproval of her activism.

Just about a year before her death, her 17-year-old son took his own life, which surely aggravated her already challenging life.

O'Connor died on July 26, 2023, in London, England. She was 56. Cause is yet to be publicized.

Contrary to popular belief,

O'Connor was not an atheist and did not hate all religions. What she was clearly fighting against was the tolerance and complacency of top leaders of certain religions like some branches of Christianity for the sexual crimes committed by many of their clergy. She still believed in a god; in fact, in 2018, she converted to Islam.

The Last Leaf

Our society really need to learn how to acknowledge the real enemies of humanity and start acknowledging (instead of misunderstanding) the sentiments of brave people, like O'Connor when she was still alive, who are willing to stand up against the hypocrisy, depravity, deceit, and tyranny of many throned and veiled leaders and controllers of weak, gullible, desperate, and hopeful minds.

Maja Salvador's Secret Civil Wedding Preceded Bali Ceremony

Actress Maja Salvador has unveiled a previously undisclosed aspect of her marriage, sharing that she and husband Rambo Nuñez had an intimate civil wedding in Manila on Valentine's Day, marking their fourth anniversary. Despite initially intending for a single wedding, the decision for a destination ceremony led them to honor their commitment with a civil ceremony locally. The private event included close family members and preceded their recent wedding at Apurva Kempinski, Bali. Renowned personalities like Maine Mendoza, John Lloyd Cruz, and Sarah Lahbati attended the Bali ceremony, where Maja and Rambo officially tied the knot for the second time.

Sweet Surprise: Marian Rivera and Kids Celebrate Dingdong Dantes' 43rd Birthday

Maine

Marian Rivera orchestrated a heartwarming surprise birthday bash for her husband, actor Dingdong Dantes, alongside their children. The Kapuso star marked his 43rd birthday with an unexpected breakfast party, highlighted by endearing performances from their kids, Zia and Sixto.

In a TikTok video shared by Dantes, the siblings joyfully engaged in karaoke, with Sixto confidently belting out Aerosmith's "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing," while Zia delivered her rendition of Adele's "Easy on Me." The video also showcased the family's affectionate interactions, especially Rivera's displays of love for her husband.

The siblings also penned heartfelt letters for Dantes, and Rivera took to Instagram to express her gratitude for her "amazing husband" while presenting him with a thoughtful gift.

Dantes, appreciating the gesture, shared glimpses of the song-filled celebration on his Instagram, embracing turning 43 with his family's love. He expressed gratitude for the surprise breakfast and early karaoke medley.

The couple, known for their on-screen chemistry, will reunite in the upcoming film "Rewind," an official entry in the 49th Metro Manila Film Festival.

Maine Mendoza has responded to what she calls a "fake news" article by an online news site, which she deems "misleading and false." The news stemmed from information released by her husband Arjo Atayde's office stating his official travel to Europe from August 5 to 27, 2023, for his role as vice chairperson of the Special Committee on the Creative Industry and Performing Arts in Congress. The news site seemingly added a misleading

Mendoza clarified that any personal trips, including a honeymoon, would be funded from their own pockets, not from public funds. She encouraged netizens to fact-check before reacting and cautioned against easily believing misinformation. Maine and Arjo recently got married on July 28, 2023, in Baguio City.

Photo courtesy: Instagram @maja

Photo courtesy: Instagram @iceseguerra

Photo courtesy: Instagram @dongdantes spin, suggesting a honeymoon in conjunction with the official travel.

Philippine delegation teams garner 21 medals after 7 days of competition in the 2023 World Police and Fire Games

By Rod Escobar Cantiveros

The Philippine National Police and Fire Team continue to garner medals -- 11 gold, 8 silver, and 2 bronze and still counting in the 20th World Police and Fire Games in the 20th Biennial World Police and Fire Games after seven grilling days of competition in the various sports venues in Winnipeg.

The Philippine Team is ranked 2nd in the overall medal standing as of this writing.

The World Police and Fire Games is a biennial athletic event open to active and retired law enforcement and fire services personnel throughout the world. The WPFG Federation is an arm of the California Police Athletic Federation, an American non-profit organization.

Led by Police LT. General Rhodel O. Sermonia, the more than 70 delegates arrived in Winnipeg on July 28 and were ready for the sports competition.

The delegates came to Canada with their expenses like airfare and their daily expenses for food and housing, feeling short of the Philippine government to extend minor support to compete in Canada. Philippine National Police provided some money for the athletes.

Due to this dire-straight situation, Kenneth Salazar volunteered to coordinate the arrival of the Philippine Athletes, and because he has less contact with the Filipino community, he contacted Leila Castro, one of the administrators of 204 Filipino Forum and Marketplace, to spread the urgent call for volunteers to welcome the delegation and at the same time, to ask for financial help and in kind. Salazar, married with 2 children, active in Environment Manitoba, and a committee member of the William Whyte Housing program, said: "I am one of the 204 Filipino Forum and Marketplace moderators. I shouted and created

the group chat and every day, I made a noise until it was heard by the Filipino community, and the response was tremendous. Our well-known hospitality moved to action to welcome our kababayan athletes."

The news of the forthcoming athletic events and the financial needs, housing, and food for the delegation had spread like wildfire with community groups being involved as well - Bulacan Association of Manitoba under the presidency of Ray Argulla; Bayanihan led by Edison Catajoy Garcia; 204 Volunteers Inc, the local Filipino media, CKJS, Filipino Journal, and Pilipino Express, and PCCM President Virgie Gayot, offered the PCCM for the welcome dinner.

At the welcome dinner at the Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM), food and drinks donors came in droves and still offered their homes for the delegates, and some families welcomed delegates to stay with them during the duration of the game

Ronald Opina, honorary consul, said: "The members of the Filipino community opened their hearts to welcome the Filipino delegates to the 20th World Police and Fire Games." And we are proud and

humbled by their presence in this biennial sports competition. My special thank you, to Lt. Gen. Rhodel O. Sermonia and other officials for leading the way to garner so many medals in this game. We are proud of you. And special thanks to our sponsors and volunteers for opening their homes and their wallets to the delegation. We wish them great success."

Larry Vickar, president and CEO, of Vickar Automotive Group, writes: " It is our great honor to be part of the 20th World Police and Fire Games. From my family and my management group and staff, we welcome you to our Friendly City of Winnipeg, together with the more than 100,000 Filipinos who comprise the most vibrant Filipino community in Canada. Hoping for more medals to win, and more success in all your endeavours."

LT.Gen. Rhodel O. Sermonia said: "We are overwhelmed by the genuine hospitality of the Filipinos in Winnipeg. Thank you very much for all your help to make our stay in Winnipeg a very memorable one."

And from Kenneth Salazar and Leila Castro and some organizers, extend heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, hosts, sponsors, and donors of food and drinks.

With Larry and Tova Vickar

The Filipino community is in full force supporting the delegation as shown at the PCCM's welcome dinner for the athletes

LT.Gen. Rhodel O. Sermonia Delegation Head - 2023 World Police and Fire Games

Photos by Ron Cantiveros, Edison Catajoy Garcia and Rod Cantiveros

The journey of the Philippine delegation to Winnipeg for the 20th World Police and Fire Games

by Leila Castro

Last year, while game was ongoing at Netherlands, a concerned Filipino who lives in Netherlands spoke with me about the challenges faced by the 9 Filipino police athletes who participated in the World Police and Fire Games. It was a challenge to navigate Rotterdam city going to the athlete’s game venue, so how they wished there was a kababayan there they could speak with upon their arrival to give them information about going to places, and possibly transportation also. Not having enough financial resources was a big issue. The athletes spent for their participation to the games from their own pockets. The cost of accommodation and food in Netherlands was way higher than they could afford. For some police athletes who were earning less than $1,000 per month, each day at the hotel’s breakfast buffet, they just ate a lot to load their stomach with food hoping to feel still full till nighttime, because their next meal would be the

next breakfast buffet again. My heart was crushed while hearing these stories. I assumed that only 9 Filipino police and fire department athletes would come to Winnipeg for the 2023 games that our city will host. I also gave my word – no one will get hungry, no one will get lost, no one will be late to their games. “Walang magiging kawawa.”

By last week of July this year, Kenneth Salazar, a member 204 Volunteers Inc.- Caring Manitobans in Action, reached out to the community leaders about the arrival of Filipino athletes for the games. Initially, the intention was to ensure the delegation will be given a Filipino community welcome. I shared to the group the information I gathered about the challenges met by the same athletes last year. The community leaders were made aware that more than the welcome party, there will most likely be basic needs of the athletes where they will need the support of the Filipino-Winnipeggers. It turned

out that not 9 athletes are coming, but more than 99 athletes. Fortunately, as we had always proven in the past, out tight knit Filipino family can be depended on by anyone vulnerable (from missing persons, homeless Filipinos to victims of crimes). Through the social media group 204 Filipino Forum and Marketplace and with the help of mainstream media CKJS, we had spread the word about the arrival of our Filipino athletes and their basic needs that hopefully we could fill through bayanihan in our Filipino community. We were overwhelmed from the outpouring of support from the fellow Filipinos here and from the multicultural community. There are homes that accommodated the athletes board and lodging for free. Many offered to transport athletes to/ from their games. 204 Volunteers Inc. – Caring Manitobans in Action also immediately allocated $1,000 dollars to provide gas money to transportation volunteers and feed the 70 delegations

who attended the game. Many people dropped off the requested healthy food for the athletes. Generous business owners donated money for whatever emergency needs the athletes would have.

I hosted Brig. General Jason Ortizo at my house, the PNP’s priest chaplain. During evenings, we would spend hours over dinner to share to each other about the 204 Volunteers Inc. – Caring Manitobans In Action. Father Ortizo said that through the years they had been going to countries, they never encountered such a caring community for their athletes. He also felt that more than coming here to compete, it was a divine intervention that Father Ortizo met here the 204

family. 204 Volunteers Inc. – Caring Manitobans in Action gave a token to General Jason Ortizo and to the athletes’ delegation head General Rhodel Sermonia, the vests that the 204 volunteers wear, as a symbol that the strong connection between the PNP athletes family and our 204 family is now there; it is a connection that was formed through the spirit of bayanihan on a foreign land. When the delegation returns to the Philippines, they can tell the stories about their stay in Winnipeg, and that hopefully, in their future travels to countries that will host the future games, Filipino communities will also emulate the beautiful bayanihan that transpired in Winnipeg.

Photos by Ron Cantiveros, Edison Catajoy Garcia and Rod Cantiveros

Pearl of the Orient Pavilion Returns to Folklorama After Four Years

The Pearl of the Orient Pavilion, an iconic representation of the Philippines at Folklorama, is poised to make a resounding return after a four-year hiatus, disrupted by the global pandemic. Spearheaded by Magdaragat Philippines Inc., the pavilion promises a rich celebration of Filipino heritage from August 6 to 12, 2023, at R.B. Russell Vocational School, 364 Dufferin Ave.

Goldie Garcia, Creative Director of Magdaragat Philippines, joined by Del and Sheila Pelagio, Ambassador and Coordinator of the Pearl of the Orient Pavilion provided a sneak peek into the exciting week-long pavilion run.

Starting Sunday, August 6, the Pearl of the Orient Pavilion will run for one week, hosting three shows a night at 6:45 PM, 8:15 PM, and 9:45 PM. Attendees can expect spectacular performances spanning various regions of the Philippines.

From the Muslim suite of the southern region, Cordillera suite representing northern Philippines and the well-loved Rural Suite, audiences will be immersed in a cultural showcase featuring different festivals from each region.

On the tantalizing menu, Filipino classics like pancit and lumpia will undoubtedly draw in food enthusiasts. This year, they

Twelve Languages. Six Locations. One Goal: To Serve Your Needs.

will also be partnering with Max's Restaurant as they bring their BBQ to the Pearl of the Orient Pavilion.

This grand event is the result of collective effort, made possible by a vast group of volunteers. Garcia stated, "I think we're one of the only pavilions that has a big group of volunteers."

Sheila Pelagio cordially invited everyone to visit the pavilion, saying, "Come on down. This Sunday is our first day, and come as a guest and leave as a friend."

The Pearl of the Orient Pavilion remains a testament to the resilience and vibrancy of the Filipino community in Manitoba. As the longest-running festival in North America, Folklorama continues to be a platform to travel the world and explore many cultures, with the Philippine pavilion as a must-visit stop. This year, it indeed promises to be a party, a spectacle, and a heartfelt "Thank you" from the organizers to all supporters.

Photos provided by Goldie Garcia of Magdaragat

The 52nd Folklorama Festival Starts Sunday!

In celebration of the communities that make up the ethno-cultural fabric of Manitoba, the 52nd Folklorama Festival begins this Sunday, August 6thand runs until Saturday, August 19th.

“By supporting Folklorama, you are enabling generations to keep sharing their culture, traditions and the stories that weave Manitobans together”, states Teresa Cotroneo, Executive Director, Folklorama. “I encourage you to immerse yourselves in the cultures of as many pavilions as you can. Take in their hospitality and educate yourself on how their ethnocultural arts and cuisine enrich our lives, every day of the year.”

Over 40 Pavilions (20 in week one and 20 in week two) will open their doors to the world to showcase and educate. All the money made in a Pavilion stays in that ethno-cultural community to assist with creating connections and providing newcomer support. Click here to plan your visit.

“The heart of Folklorama is the

Folklorama family”, states Bridget Peterson, President, Folklorama Board of Directors.“These volunteers work tirelessly to bring Folklorama to life each year. In total, there are more than 8,000 volunteers who dedicate over 300,000 volunteer hours each year. Please join us in thanking them for their ongoing dedication.”

Take a moment to meet and greet the Pavilion Ambassadors and the Ambassadors’ General and learn something about their culture; program presented by Cambrian Credit Union. These amazing volunteers represent their Pavilion(s) at Folklorama events 365 days a year.

New this year: Different show times, new V.I.P. tours including A Sweet Tooth Tour, International performing groups, and late-night parties return. Book your V.I.P. accessible, cycling, luxury motorcoach, or walking tours today. Tours are 95% sold out!

Bring your child, grandchild, niece,or nephew with you to teach them about the beauty of the ethno-

cultural mosaic that makes up Manitoba. Tickets for children 12 and under are free when booked with an adult ticket. Free tickets must be booked online to secure entrance into a Pavilion.

Capture a favourite Folklorama moment via photo or video tagging @Folklorama, #MyFolkloramaor #Folklorama52. Share to win!

The 52nd edition of the Folklorama Festival runs August 6th-August 19th, 2023.For more information, visit Folklorama.ca

Folklorama began in 1970 as a one-time celebration of Manitoba’s centennial but has since grown to be the largest and longest-running multicultural festival of its kind in the world. Developing out of the success of the Festival, the organization offers year-round programs: Folklorama at Home, Folklorama at Work, Folklorama at School, and Folklorama at Play. All the programs bring to life Folklorama’s mission of celebrating diversity and promoting cultural understanding.

Learn more at Folklorama.ca

Folklorama gratefully acknowledges that we create, connect, and celebrate on Treaty One territory – original land of the Anishinaabe, Cree, Ojibway, Dene, Dakota peoples, and the National Homeland of the

Red River Métis. We are committed to building relationships and sharing knowledge, and cultural understanding of all communities. Understanding our diversity fosters pride and mutual respect.

Pavilion of Scotland

Photo Credit Dr. Tse Li Luk

Chinese Pavilion Photo Credit Dr. Tse Li Luk

Filipino Arts, Cultural & Sports awarded over $240,000 in Community Funding

• Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers Inc., Rondalla Concert: A Gift of Cultural Heritage, $25,000.00

• Order of the Knights of Rizal, Winnipeg Chapter Inc.,Dr. Jose Rizal Park Rehabilitation, $66,733.75

• Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba Inc.,Filipino Music Programming,$23,000.00

• Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, Multicultural Picnic and Cultural Play,$24,000.00

• Philippine Basketball Association Winnipeg Inc., 20th Anniversary and Inter City Tournament, $25,000.00

• The Quezon Province Association of Manitoba, Learn to Skate Program, $25,000.00

• 204 Volunteers Inc., Upo Festival,$5,000.00

• Neepawa & District Centennial

Project Committee Inc., Filipino Heritage: Philippine Independence Day Celebration, $5,000.00

• Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, Multicultural Music and Arts Gathering $5,000.00

• Seven Oaks Filipino Employees Association Inc.,Philippine Heritage and Independence Day Celebration,$5,000.00

• Filipino Music and Arts Association of Canada Inc.,Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion, $4,550.00

• Manitoba Filipino Business Council (MFBC), Gallivanting - MFBC Member Business Crawl, $3,120.00

For more information on the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund and to see the full list of projects receiving support, visit www.manitoba. ca/acsc.

Monday was an incredible day for Arts, Cultural and Sports organizations across Manitoba as Premier Heather Stephanson and Minister Obby Khan announced the funding of $50M towards the development and renewal of spaces and facilities needed for arts, culture and amateur sports programming and activity and enhancing Manitobans’ opportunities to access quality programming in their own communities.

The Small Capital Grants and Special Initiatives Program funded 344 projects worth $14.7 million including the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg Inc., which received $25,000 to transform its seniors hall by updating the facility to increase functionality, safety and energy efficiency.

"We are incredibly grateful for the $25,000 support from the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund,” said Aida Champagne, project co-ordinator, Filipino Seniors Group. “This gives us the green light for us to start revitalizing the Filipino Seniors Hall, making it more accessible, comfortable and eco-friendly. It's an exciting beginning, and knowing there's more work to be done to fully transform our community hub."

The following Filipino organizations applied for funding through the Arts, Culture and Sport in Community Fund for a total of $241,403.75 from the Manitoba Government.

• Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg Inc.,Creating a Thriving Community Hub: The Filipino Seniors Hall Transformation,$25,000.00

Photos by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

Sa Úgoy ng Músika Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 42

When I fancy the music of a particular band or artist, I get drawn to completing its studio discography. And that's what makes collecting both an adventure and a challenge, especially when the collector likes not only one but many genres. There are so many bands and albums to look for and acquire, making music-collecting a neverending hobby.

In the previous part of this series, I featured the debut albums of eight Britpopclassifiable bands. Now, here's the sophomore record of each of the same groups.

Have in mind, by the way, that the music of the following has been described also as Alternative Rock, Guitar Pop, Jangle Pop, English Rock, and New Wave.

After all, genres are only guides and suggestions--not rules--to help music enthusiasts, record collectors, and playlist curators be able to organize their music better, based on sound and style.

* Pulp - Freaks (1987) ("Life Must Be So Wonderful")

* The Stone Roses - The Second Coming (1994) ("Love Spreads")

* Inspiral Carpets - Beast Inside (1991) ("Dreams Are All We Have")

* The Farm - Love See No Colour (1992) ("Good Morning Sinners")

* Kitchens of Distinction - Strange Free World (1991) ("Drive That Fast")

* Blur - Modern Life Is Rubbish (1993) ("For Tomorrow")

* Oasis - (What's the Story) Morning Glory? (1995) ("Wonderwall")

* Suede - Dog Man Star (1994) ("New Generation")

(Crossword) PALAISIPAN

PAHALANG PABABA

1.

21. Anthony ng DZMM

23. Malaking ibon

25. Aktor: Jet

27. Sangang tulis

28. Bubuyog

31. Tagasunod

32. Paglilinis ng damit

33. Sana

34. Madalian 36. Mister

37. Isikreto

1. Sirang kristal

2. Ospisyo

3. Mukha ng sentimo

4. Leksyon

5. Pinoy chess grandmaster

7. Uri ng suso

8. Ineksyon

9. Alegasyon

10. Yao

12. Sayad; pag inulit

17. Kumanta ng 'Fernando"

Horoscope

You’re starting August on a social note and ready to have some fun during the full moon in Aquarius and your social zone on Tuesday. Sudden gains come quickly as the windfalls you’ve been working toward finally arrive. Celebrate with your friends. It’s still summer, after all.

You’re starting August with a major boost to your reputation during the full moon in Aquarius and your career zone on Tuesday. Everything you’ve been working toward is finally coming together as networking connections pay off in big ways. Celebrate your successes and update that online resume.

August begins on an adventurous note during the full moon in Aquarius and your expansion zone on Tuesday. This is a great time to let your adventurous side take the wheel as you focus on having some more summer adventures before fall. Exploring your community can lead to new insights. Play the tourist, Gemini!

20. Transportasyon

21. Masamang tao

22. Halamang medisinall

23. Uri ng kahoy

24. Kisig

25. Kontra

26. Anong ginawa

28. Engkantada

29. Tuyong sapa

30. Pangalang babae

35. Global Index

Copyright @ horoscope.com

You’re starting August on an intimate note when the full moon is in Aquarius and your transformation zone on Tuesday. As summer comes to an end, this is a great opportunity to let go of the past and change your life for the better.

You’re starting August on a romantic note when the full moon is in Aquarius and your partnership zone on Tuesday. Even with the retrograde of Venus, you’re ready to take relationships to the next level, even if they are on a slow burn. It’s all going to work out, Leo.

Your season is only a few short weeks away, Virgo. So if you haven’t kicked those bad habits yet, you’ll need to get a jump on that during the full moon in Aquarius and your habit zone on Tuesday. If you’ve been working on yourself, things could happen “just like magic.”

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

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

Even with the Venus retrograde still wreaking havoc, August begins on a steamy note when the full moon is in Aquarius and your pleasure zone on Tuesday. This is an ideal time to finish creative projects, have one more summer fling, and just have fun! Leisure is pleasure.

As we head toward the end of summer, an ideal time for a family reunion is during the full moon in Aquarius and your home zone on Tuesday. This is an opportunity to connect with your family, attend community events, and just have some fun. Take care of your loved ones, Scorpio, starting with yourself.

The beginning of August gives you a strong boost of energy thanks to the full moon in Aquarius and your communication zone on Tuesday. You’ll suddenly have a solution to everyone’s problems, including your own. Take a last-minute summer trip to explore a new community and get away from it all. You’ll be glad you did, Sagittarius.

Start August by thinking about your personal values during the full moon in Aquarius and your value zone on Tuesday. Spread the wealth by taking care of others and seeing how much good karma you can earn today. Helping others can give you a major self-esteem boost, Capricorn.

You’re starting August with a major confidence boost with the full moon in your sign on Tuesday. This is a great time to celebrate everything you’ve achieved over the last six months. While there’s still more to be done, it’s important to recognize your achievements. Enjoy!

If the retrograde didn’t end your relationship, the full moon in Aquarius on Tuesday might. With the moon in your transformation zone, you could uncover some hidden secrets about your relationship that lead to harsh endings. You might need some time to sort things out, Pisces, but karma has your back.

Unmasking Covert Influence: Study Reveals Inflammatory Role of Political Influencers in 2022 Philippine Elections"

Covert political influencers played a pivotal role in the 2022 Philippine elections by leveraging inflammatory speech to attack candidates, reveals a recent disinformation study titled "Political Economy of Covert Influence Operations in the 2022 Philippine Elections." The study estimates a substantial expenditure of at least P600 million to P1.5 billion on these influencers, whose expenses often evade official campaign declarations due to regulatory gaps.

Authored by Filipino scholars and funded by Internews, the study sheds light on the novel realm of covert influence operations in politics. It defines these operations as strategic communications aimed at capturing attention, mobilizing audiences, and swaying electoral outcomes.

Notably, the research distinguishes between political and commercial influencers, highlighting that political influencers hold unique value for their ability to attack rivals through inflammatory content. They negotiate higher rates based on their notoriety and skill in deploying hate speech.

The study approximates that around 1,425 influencer accounts on platforms like YouTube, TikTok, Facebook, and Twitter engaged in covert political campaigning. Estimated spending by top candidates for influence operations ranged from P600 million

PhilPost Receives P100M Advance from GSIS Amidst Fire Damage Evaluation

The Philippine Postal Corp. (PhilPost) has received an advance of P100 million from the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) while ongoing assessment determines the extent of damage caused by the fire at the Manila Central Post Office building. GSIS issued this preliminary payment as part of PhilPost's insurance claim. The complete payment is contingent on the adjuster's report evaluation and final approval. The GSIS, insuring the building for up to P604 million, plans to provide the remaining sum after due diligence. GSIS President and General Manager Arnulfo Veloso added that the organization also contributed office equipment to aid PhilPost in maintaining essential services' continuity.

to P1.5 billion, though these figures lack concrete quantitative data.

The research underscores a lack of transparency in political campaigns, as spending on discreet influence operations often exceeds declared amounts. Weak regulations create room for such activities in campaign budgets, while the opaque nature of political influencer contracts further exacerbates the issue.

To address these concerns, the study recommends expanding transparency measures, modifying campaign financial declarations to encompass a wider range of expenses, and implementing stronger mechanisms to hold political influencers accountable. Such reforms, including the registration of influencers as independent contractors and tax payment enforcement, aim to unveil the identities and activities of these covert political influencers.

Government Launches Reading Tutor Program for College Students, Offering P570 Daily

as the "Tara, Basa! Tutoring Program," is a collaboration between the Department of Education (DepEd) and the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD).

The program's pilot phase, set to commence on August 15, focuses on recruiting volunteer tutors for first graders. Over a period of 20 days, these tutors will assist more than 63,000 students from 490 elementary schools in Metro Manila, with each tutor assigned to work with 10 pupils for two hours daily. The initiative aims to enhance reading skills among young learners.

Under the newly revamped educational assistance program, financially disadvantaged college students have the opportunity to earn P570 per day by volunteering as early-grade reading tutors or youth development workers. The initiative, known

Additionally, the youth development workers will facilitate "Nanay-Tatay teacher sessions," covering topics related to parenting, family dynamics, child development, and children's rights. Participating parents and guardians attending these sessions will receive P235 per day for 20 days. If successful, the pilot program may expand to other regions, according to Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian.

Photo: AFP / Jam Sta. Rosa

Inquirer Photo / Richard A. Reyes

Photo by: Walter Bollozos

Portage La Prairie, a littleknown treasure nestled in the heart of Manitoba, was our chosen destination for an other Manitoba summer road trip. This charming town, often overshadowed by more renowned Manitoba attractions, delivered a perfect blend of tranquillity and excitement, making our trip nothing short of a memorable adventure.

Our journey commenced at the serene St. Ambrose Provincial Park. We spent the day soaking up the sun, the rhythm of the lapping waves providing the ideal soundtrack for our weekend escapade. The on-site Tiki Bar, added a dash of exotic fun to the day with its distinctive Mexican flair.

After a day filled with sand and sunshine, we moved on to Bill’s Sticky Fingers. This local favourite, renowned for its scrumptious ribs, burgers, and wings, hit the spot perfectly, rounding off our day with a satisfying culinary delight. However, our boys were not yet done. Making our way back to the hotel, the boys still had energy to jump in the pool for more aquatic adventures.

Bright and early the following day, we found ourselves at

Connery’s Berry Farm. To our mild disappointment, we arrived a day early for strawberry picking, and still managed to drive away with a basket of pre-picked strawberries.

With our taste buds satiated but our boys' enthusiasm for water fun undimmed, our next stop was the popular Splash Island. A popular destination among families during the summer, this water park offers a wealth of amusement for everyone, regardless of age. The array of slides, pools, fountains, and splash pads was enough to guarantee a day filled with laughs and splashes.

Thus, our adventure in Portage La Prairie concluded on an exceptionally high note.

Portage La Prairie, our endearing host for this unforgettable road trip, is a vibrant city steeped in heart-warming hospitality and rich history. The city exudes a unique charm, effortlessly blending the tranquillity of the countryside with the buzz of urban life. Its picturesque landscapes, friendly locals, and the abundant recreational opportunities make it a hidden gem worth exploring. So, here's to the city of Portage La Prairie.

Maddox Sarmiento - Channel catfish reeled in at Lockport

Ken Polvorosa - Northwest Ontario trophy musky

Shiloh Aranzanso with dad Regansummertime walleye caught on Lake Winnipeg

Jerry Legaspi - Lake Winnipeg walleye

Jackson Surla - Lake of the Woods walleye