Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

Maligayang Pasko at Masaganang Bagong Taon!

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

DECEMBER 20, 2023 - JANUARY 05, 2024 | VOL 37 NO 24

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

HOLLY JOLLY CHRISTMAS

Councillor Devi Sharma joined a merry throng at Seven Oaks Arena, where families reveled in holiday spirit, skating with Santa and Mrs. Claus. "Skate with Santa" was complete with cheer and goodwill, was not just about fun; it was a community effort to support Acorn Family Place, making the season brighter for those in need.

Holiday Hamper Helpers Community | 8, 9 ►

Musically Yours: Sold Out Concert Feature | 6, 7 ►

PAGE 19 ► Photo by Johnny Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

Ukulele Club Community | 14 ►

Kathryn: Moving forward Stariray | 4 ►

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Winnipeg Jets Celebrate Diversity with Second Annual South Asian Heritage Night

T

he Winnipeg Jets hosted their second annual South Asian Heritage Night on Saturday, in a vibrant celebration of Manitoba's diverse South Asian community. The event, presented

by Canada Life, took place at the Canada Life Centre and was marked by historic performances, cultural exhibitions, and culinary delights.

In a first for the NHL and professional sports, the Amber Trails School choir, primarily consisting of students of South Asian descent, performed a Punjabi and English version of O Canada, alongside the American national anthem. This performance marked a historic moment, as it was the first time the Canadian national anthem was sung in Punjabi at a major professional sporting event.

The pre-game festivities were alive with the sounds of South Asian music, spun by DJs representing various regions and styles: DJ Hira with Punjabi beats, DJ General B with West Indian tunes, and DJ Nish with Bollywood-style music. The Winnipeg Punjabi Arts Academy and the Indian School of Dance energized the crowd with their dynamic dance and drum performances, adding to the evening's multicultural showcase.

The culinary aspect of the night was not left behind, as Canada Life Centre Executive Chef Richard Duncan teamed up with Chef Vishwajit Bhati, a culinary expert from India, to serve up traditional

Puck drop photo courtesy of the Winnipeg Jets

South Asian dishes. Fans enjoyed butter chicken, saag paneer bowls, tandoori chicken pizza, and the sweet treat gulab jamun, offering a taste of South Asian cuisine.

The event also honored individuals of South Asian descent who have made significant contributions to sports and the community.

These included Dampy Brar, a former professional hockey player and recipient of the 2020 Willie O’Ree Community Hero Award; Randeep Sidhu-Saini, founder of Punjabi Community Health Services Manitoba; Special Olympian Reetu Chahal; World Dwarf athlete Vivek Bhangria; and golfer Armaan Dhillon.

In addition, the Winnipeg Jets showcased the "We Are Hockey" exhibit, curated by Dr. Satwinder Kaur Bains. This exhibition challenges traditional views of hockey and celebrates the contributions of people

of color to Canada's national sport.

This event not only celebrated South Asian heritage but also highlighted the importance of diversity and inclusivity in sports and the community, setting a precedent for other professional sports teams to follow.

And yes, the Winnipeg Jets beat the visiting Colorado Avalanche 6-2.

Merry Chpyrisntemw as

& hap

year

Cindy Lamoureux MLA for Tyndall Park 204-615-9961 | www.gocindy.ca Let’s get social

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Game photos by Danny Truong

4

Sarah Lahbati Grateful for Second Chance after Skyway Car Accident

Sarah Lahbati instagram (@sarahlahbati)

A

ctress Sarah Lahbati expressed gratitude for a second chance at life after the car she was traveling in was involved in a recent accident on the Skyway. Sharing her experience on her Instagram broadcast channel on December 14, Sarah revealed that all three cars involved in the incident avoided

casualties, and everyone emerged unharmed.

"I'm not sharing this for you to feel bad for us. I'm sharing this story because this year has been the toughest of my life, yet I am reminded of God's goodness, His second chances, and His promises," said Sarah, expressing relief that things didn't take a turn for the worse.

Amid recent rumors circulating about her marriage with actor Richard Gutierrez, Sarah neither confirmed nor denied the speculations. Instead, she focused on the positive aspects of life, highlighting her family's well-being. The actress is set to make a TV comeback with an adaptation of the late Rudy Fernandez's film "Lumuhod Ka Sa Lupa."

Kathryn Bernardo Embraces New Beginnings as a "Single" Lady

A

ctress Kathryn Bernardo is stepping into a new phase of life, celebrating her status as a "single" lady and emphasizing the importance of moving forward without dwelling on the past. Taking to her Instagram on Friday, December 15, Kathryn shared moments from her recent experiences, including quality time with loved ones at the beach and enjoying tequila.

In the caption, she expressed gratitude for the little things that brought smiles to her face, underlining her commitment to a forward-

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

looking perspective: "No looking back, only moving forward."

This post follows closely after her ex-boyfriend Daniel Padilla edited parts of his breakup statement on Instagram, replacing it with the phrase "Ikaw at ako (You and me)." The former couple, who confirmed their split after an 11-year relationship on November 30 through separate social media statements, recently made headlines for their joint performance of Rembrandt’s “I’ll Be There for You” at the ABS-CBN Christmas Special concert on December 13.

DongYan's Showtime Debut for "Rewind" Film Promotion; Karylle's Absence Sparks Fan Concern

Karylle (@anakarylle)

Marian Rivera Update (@marianupdates) / X

I

n a historic first, the Kapuso real-life couple, Marian Rivera and Dingdong Dantes, graced the Kapamilya noontime show, It's Showtime, on Saturday, December 16, 2023, to promote their film "Rewind," an official entry in the upcoming 2023 Metro Manila Film Festival (MMFF) slated for a December 25 release.

The couple, welcomed with

enthusiastic cheers, wildly after they shouted, "What's up, Madlang Pipol?!"

Dingdong expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with Marian again after thirteen years, emphasizing that the experience felt like a daily date rather than work. The couple acknowledged the challenges of intimate scenes in their film, "Rewind," sharing that

Kathryn Bernardo instagram (@bernardokath)

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replicating those scenes on screen proved difficult given their personal relationship.

Meanwhile, fans noticed the absence of Karylle, one of the hosts of It's Showtime and ex-girlfriend of Dingdong Dantes, prompting queries on social media. Fans defended Karylle that she was unwell, corroborating her recent tweet stating she would miss work due to sickness.

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

Kick Off 2024 with a New Year's Day Celebration at The Forks THE DAY WILL INCLUDE GAMES, SKATING, ENTERTAINMENT, FOOD, MUSIC, AND SO MUCH MORE.

5

December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

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a lineup of talented local musicians and DJs to perform in the Boîte à chansons, a mobile concert trailer. This music will entertain folks who want to skate on the Canopy Rink or warm up by one of the fire pits.

• Learn to Winter Also outside, we’ll be kicking off our Learn to Winter program, where staff and volunteers from Winnipeg Trails Ad Size: 4”will x 3”be h helping B/W folks learn how to skate, cross country ski, and snowshoe. Publication: • Story Time in the Teepee Contact: Erik Moloney Folks will be able to join Elderhigh Barbara Nepinak around the fire inside the teepee for Format: res PDF GL Number: 5660 – 6725 some drumming and stories.

Ref.#: PRT-060-S-AD Business card (from Bishop Gr.) AGOWIIDIWINAN CENTRE: • Family Activities ©Arbor Memorial Inc., 2016 The Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba is inviting folks into the Agowiidiwinan Centre, with family-friendly activities going on throughout the day, including speakers and workshops.

All of the day’s events are open and free to attend, and a formal schedule will be posted on www.TheForks.com closer to New Year’s Day. The Forks Market will be open standard Sunday hours on December 31.

T

he Forks, Winnipeg, Treaty 1 Territory – The Forks is ushering in 2024 and inviting visitors to set the tone for the new year with a day of brunch, performances, yoga, games, crafts and outdoor activities for all to enjoy.

“For those who have made it their resolution to have more fun, food, culture, and winter activities in 2024, New Year’s Day at The Forks will be the place to be," says Sara Stasiuk, Chief Executive Officer of The Forks North Portage. "We know people love spending time here with friends and family, so we’ve got a great lineup of activities to make the first day of the new year extra special.”

The day’s events, entertainment, and activities will run from 10 AM to 4 PM, with a come-and-go style that will happen indoors and outdoors throughout The Forks site.

INSIDE THE FORKS MARKET: • Synonym and Tallest Poppy Drag Brunch Synonym and Tallest Poppy in collaboration with Passerby Cocktail Bar will be serving up their signature fried chicken and waffles, while eight drag artists entertain with family-friendly performances. Several other Forks Market tenants will also be offering brunch specials.

• Folklorama Performances Island Breeze, representing the Pacific Islands, will bring the heat and Drum Café, an energetic African drum and dance group, will bring the beats!

• Games and Crafts Kids of all ages can play board games and do crafts upstairs in the EQ3 Lounge.

• Health and Wellness Classes Adrienne Shum and fellow instructors will be offering yoga, connect, and mobility classes in Room 201. The classes will be free, with limited reserved spots available through www.TheForks.com.

OUTDOORS: • Manitoba Music Performances Outside by the Canopy Skating Rink, Manitoba Music will be curating

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

Musically Yours, This Christmas, a Sold Out Concert

O

nce again, Musica Singers of Manitoba thrilled the audience on a sold out concert entitled “Musically Yours, This Christmas “ last December 16th at the Laudamus Auditorium, Canadian Mennonite University, 500 Shsftesbury Boulevard, Winnipeg.

The 280 seat auditorium was filled with melodic and enchanting

voices from the Musica Singers as they performed traditional and contemporary Christmas carols in both English and Filipino.

“We are delighted to present some beloved Christmas songs that bring feelings of joy, hope, love and celebration. We pride ourselves in bringing joy this Christmas through the gift of music” remarked by

Dante Aviso, Executive Director of Musica Singers of Manitoba.

Oscar Panteleon Jr, musical director of Musica Singers curated a Christmas playlist from the traditional carol “Joy to the World” to the most applauded number of Filipno songs like “Kumukutikutitap” and “Pasko Na Naman”. Ariel Fernando and Jesse Alcasabas

DEVI

SHARMA

were the emcees of the program.

Kudos to all singers, conductor and collaborating instrumentalists.

The Musica Singers of Manitoba are as follow: Oscar Pantaleon Jr., music director & principal conductor Lorenz Edward Sarrondo, assistant conductor Donna Bautista-Rubio, assistant conductor SOPRANO Jesse Cauguiran-Alcasabas, Marielle Cahigas , Katrina Ibe-Dimatulac ,Vina Dimayuga Milyn Armenio, Kate Tomo, Storme Zapata ALTO Ira Alejo, Ashley Medina-Bonifacio , Jean Lopez Donna Bautista-Rubio, piano, Rowena Sta. Ana ,Elizabeth De Leon TENOR Elmer Aquino, Ariel Fernando

,Oscar Pantaleon Jr. Lorenz Sarrondo ,Patrick Arnuco BASS Dante Aviso, Ren Bonifacio, Emmanuel Dimatulac Jim Lopez, piano Ricardo L. Manalang John Zedrick Reyes Paolo Camus, violin Musica Singers of Manitoba gratefully acknowledges the valuabe sponsors for their generosity, to all the families and volunteers for their dedication and hardwork and to the audience for supporting and buying tickets.

Next event for the Musica Singers will be the following: Musia in Our Hearts (La musique dans nos coeurs) on Feb 10, and Musica, an Evening of Kundiman and Philippine Art Songs on June 8, 2024.

For more information: musicasingers2019@gmail.com

City Councillor • Old Kildonan Ward Speaker of Council

Best wishes for the Holiday Season and a prosperous New Year 204-986-5264 • 646 Leila Avenue • devi@winnipeg.ca

Musica Singers Executive Committee L-R Lorenz Sarrondo,Ma. Ashley Bonifacio,Emmanuel Dimatulac,Katrina Dimatulac,Jesse Alcasabas,Ariel Fernando.

Seated L-R Oscard Pantaleon Jr. ,Dante Aviso

Full Cast of Musica Singers (2)

Wishing you a Happy Holidays!

Constituency Office 892 Sargent Avenue Winnipeg MB R3E 0C7  204-984-1675

LeahGazan.ca  Leah.Gazan@parl.gc.ca  /LeahGazanMP  @ leahgazan @leahgazanMP L-R Storme Zapata,Milyn Armenio,Vina Dimayuga, Seated L-R Catherine Tomo,Katrina Dimatulac,Jesse Alcasabas

Photo credits: Jesse Alcasabas

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

Markus Chambers City Councillor Conseiller municipal

St. Norbert - Seine River 204.986.5920 markuschambers@winnipeg.ca

Musica Singers of Manitoba

Happy Holidays

Full cast of Musica Singers

Brian Mayes City Councillor Conseiller municipal

St. Vital 204.986.5088 bmayes@winnipeg.ca *Services en français disponibles

My Band. L-R Shawn Porteus,Jim Lopez Paulo Camus, Ren Bonfiacio. Seater L-R Ariel Fernando, Jesse Alcasabas, Lorenz Sarrondo

WISH YOU A

AND A HAPPY NEW YEAR

J O CRI W I ND OWS AND DO O RS MFG . LT D .

2 1 4 Hutc h ing s St re et , Wi n n i p eg MB R2X 2Y2

M R . PR ET ZELS POLO PARK 1485 Port ag e Ave, Winnipeg , MB R3G 0W4

Jo c r i w i n d ows .co m d l a u d ato @ j o cr iwin dows .ca

MR. PRETZELS CANADA – CF POLO PARK lau dato dav id@gm a i l.com

204-632-9555

204-997-8888

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

Give Love Through Hampers Delivery

By Leila Castro

O

n the evening of December 14th of 2023, while it was the peak time for shopping and attending holiday parties for many people in our city, a small group of Filipinos opted to do something

else. Charmaine Hernandez was the first to arrive at the Christmas Cheer Board warehouse located at 895 Century Street, with her business partner and fellow realtor Maneet Jassal. Rene Castro, Evo Paguio, and Fiji Hernandez came with their

respective spouses Leila, Guada and Paulynne. Parents Beth Olesco, Allan Pamplona and Tek De Leon came with their children. A total of seven cars that belonged to the mentioned members of 204 Volunteers Inc.-Caring Manitobans in Action (204VI) were loaded with close to fifty hampers for delivery to sixteen families.

All volunteers moved with high sense of urgency.

While one was driving and focused on following the direction dictated by GPS, the other volunteer was on the phone to contact the recipients of the hampers. It was critical to connect with the recipient before 8pm so that the delivery can be made before 8:30pm, because after that time no house still wants to be disturbed. It was also important to ensure that the recipients will receive the hampers in time for Christmas. For most families, receiving these hampers will mean that they will have delicious meals and nice gifts for their young ones on Christmas day. Each hamper was painstakingly packed personalized for the recipient.

The idea of volunteering to deliver hampers that contain food and gifts for our less fortunate brothers and sisters in the city, was proposed by Joe Baldo to 204VI. He was one of the founders of the volunteer group. He joined the creator last spring, but 204VI decided to continue the tradition. 204VI has been doing it since 2017.

It is also inspiring to know that many in our Filipino community are doing the volunteering for hampers boxing and delivery. On same evening, 204VI met Theresa Penner who was also there at the Christmas Cheer Board to pick up hampers to deliver. We encourage families, group of friends, work mates, and organizations to form your driver volunteers and make the delivery of hampers your yearly holiday tradition, too.

Tek De Leon ensuring that she has the right information.

continued on page 9 ►

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

204VI was happy to meet Therese Penner.

204 Volunteers Inc.-Caring Manitobans In Action at the Christmas Cheer Board warehouse. From left, Leila Castro, Adel Mina, Charmaine Hernandez, Maneet Jassal, Beth Olesco with daughter Trisha, Evo and Guada Paguio.

From left, Paulynne Abuan, Fiji Franz Hernndez, Allan Pamplona with his daughter Picking up the hampers is not as simple as it and Rene Castro.

Agatha who is nine years old. seems. Each hamper needs to be carefully placed inside the car while volunteers endure the cold weather.

Photos provided by: Leila Castro

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

MERRY

Christmas & HAPPY New Year  DAN MAZIER, MP

DAUPHIN—SWAN RIVER—NEEPAWA 1-877-405-8946

YOUR CONSERVATIVE TEAM IN OTTAWA

SEN. DON PLETT

JAMES BEZAN, MP

MANITOBA

LEADER OF THE OPPOSITION IN THE SENATE

613-992-0180

SELKIRK—INTERLAKE—EASTMAN 204-785-6151

RAQUEL DANCHO, MP

TED FALK, MP

KILDONAN—ST. PAUL 204-984-6322

PROVENCHER 204-326-9889

BRANDEN LESLIE, MP

PORTAGE—LISGAR 204-822-7440

LARRY MAGUIRE, MP

BRANDON—SOURIS 204-726-7600

MARTY MORANTZ, MP

CHARLESWOOD—ST. JAMES— ASSINIBOIA—HEADINGLEY 204-984-6432

ERIC MELILLO, MP

KENORA RIDING 1-866-710-0008

HON. PIERRE POILIEVRE

LEADER OF THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY OF CANADA All photos & articles available online!

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

Say Happy Holidays.

Say it better with money.

Send it with Western Union at Money Mart.

C

M

Y

Send money to bank accounts or mobile wallets* in the Philippines for Christmas.

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K

*Funds will be paid to receiver’s mWallet account provider for credit to account tied to receiver’s mobile number.

Additional third-party charges may apply, including SMS and account over-limit and cash-out fees. Funds availability subject to terms and conditions of service. See Mobile Form for restrictions. © 2023 Western Union Holdings, Inc. All rights reserved. All logos, trademarks, service marks, and trade names referenced in this material are the property of their respective owners.

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

vivian santos

e lay c p n s e i i r D e xp ight E L o u t r h d Invite est Drive T e r A You Larg s ‘ a b Manito

Wednesdays FREE

3D GLASSES (To the first 100 cars, while supplies last)

December 1, 2023 - January 6, 2024 OPEN 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM DAILY

20 *

$

per vehicle

NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES

CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY

Tickets available at Giant Tiger stores, online at redriverex.com, or at the gate.

* This price is for personal, non-commercial passenger

vehicles only, designed to carry up to seven (7) people.

Larger and commercial vehicles may purchase admission at the gate.

Exhibition Park, Enter at the West Gate

All photos & articles available online!

3977 Portage Ave., Winnipeg, MB Tickets and more information at redriverex.com.

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

Ukulele Filipino Club Story and photos by: Ernesto Ofiaza

M

embers of the newly formed Ukulele Filipino Club (UFC) in their last jamming session for the year 2023 held at the FSG Event Hall at 49 Euclid Avenue. UFC was established through the collaboration of the Filipino Music and Arts Association of Canada Incorporated (FMAACI) and the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg (FSGW). It aims to bring people together, young, and old alike, for stress relief and mental health activities, to develop friendship and camaraderie, through music. They played the song "Ang Pasko ay Sumapit", one of the many Filipino Christmas classic songs characterized by its joyful melody and lyrics that signifies the start of the Yuletide season. Ernesto Ofiaza Jr. and Jeanette Kiamco Perez as Ukulele facilitators, Jun Isla and Aida Champagne as convenors lead the group.

Joining UFC in this recording is Phil Natividad, Winnipeg ukulele player, singer, songwriter, and music teacher, and Franklin Gaburno, a natural ukulele player. (-Ernesto Ofiaza Jr.)

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

Filipino Parent: 10 Sparkling Ways to Make Family Memories This Christmas Break

W

inter Christmas break is a special time for families to bond and create lasting memories. Here are 10 fun activities that families can enjoy together during this festive season: • Bake Christmas Cookies: Gather in the kitchen to bake and decorate Christmas cookies. It's a delightful way to spend time together and indulge in sweet treats.

• Build a Snowman: If you live in a snowy area, go outside and build a snowman. Get creative with accessories to give your snowman a unique personality.

• Christmas Movie Marathon: Snuggle up with blankets and hot cocoa for a Christmas movie marathon. Classics like "Home Alone" and "The Grinch" never fail to entertain.

• Visit a Christmas Market: Explore a local Christmas market. These markets are filled with festive crafts, foods, and often have fun activities for kids.

• Create DIY Ornaments: Spend an afternoon creating DIY Christmas ornaments. These can be as simple or as intricate as you like, and they

• Winter Hiking or Nature Walk: Go for a hike or a nature walk to appreciate the beauty of the winter landscape. Make sure to dress warmly!

• Volunteer Together: Spend some time volunteering at a local shelter or charity organization. It’s a meaningful way to give back during the holiday season.

make great keepsakes.

• Go Ice Skating: Find a local ice rink and go skating together.

Whether you're beginners or pros, ice skating is a quintessential winter activity.

• Host a Hot Chocolate Bar: Set up a hot chocolate bar in your home with various toppings like marshmallows, whipped cream, and sprinkles. Let everyone customize their own drink.

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15 • Craft a Family Scrapbook: Compile photos and mementos from the past year into a family scrapbook. It's a fun way to reminisce and document your family's journey.

These activities not only provide entertainment but also strengthen family bonds and create cherished holiday memories.

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THE PULSE OF THE FILIPINO COMMUNITY SINCE 1987

December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

Ultimate New Wave Evolution (& closely related styles) part 51

B

y the 1990s, there were still a good number of '80s-peaking New Wave-associated bands that had been releasing new music-the likes of New Order, Depeche Mode, Duran Duran, Simple Minds, The Cure, a-ha, and Echo & the Bunnymen. However, the genre had also obviously evolved and branched out into other styles toward opposite directions of the spectrum--the soft and smooth side of Synthpop, Indie Pop, and Sophistipop and the more frenetic and jagged grate of Britpop, Shoegaze, and Indie Rock--all of which, in fairness, have made the entire Alternative-music world dynamic and exciting as ever. All of them did

Sa Úgoy ng Músika not lose the melodic sensibilities that made their respective music catchy, popular, and compelling to begin with.

In the previous part of this series, I featured albums by bands whose music undulates through the waves of Indie Pop / Indie Rock. Now, for this batch, here are some more albums from mostly the same Swedish groups--with the exception of Naïve (Danish). * Popsicle - Abstinence (1994) * Eggstone - Vive la Différence! (1997) * Kent - Isola (1997) * This Perfect Day - C-60 (1997) * Acid House Kings - Sing Along * The Cardigans - Life (1995) with... (2005) * Club 8 - Nouvelle (1996) * Naïve - Absolution Music (1995)

Copyright @ puzzles.ca

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

PA L A I S I PA N PABABA

PAHALANG 1 United Kingdom 3 Bantay 8 Bituin 10 Sakay 12 Taba ng talangka 14 Hintay 15 Soltero 17 Tatak ng langis 18 Napinsala 20 Salitang pang-ugnay 22 Walang katiyakang tugon

(Crossword)

24 Bank of America 26 Intindihin 29 Lasa ng kalamansi 31 Pagmalupitan 33 Linya 35 Panot 36 Ikatas 37 Reserba 38 Sangkap ng tinola 39 Notang musikal

1 Uka 2 Tagayan 3 Luwat 4 Papilay na lakad 5 Rondalya 6 Sining 7 Gulay sa chopsuey 9 Klaro 11 Paglilibot 13 Ilaan 16 Grado

Horoscope

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You’re feeling a little tongue-tied this week when Vesta backs into your communication zone on Wednesday. This placement can turn your thoughts into weapons, so this could be an anxious time. Use the holidays as an excuse to take some time off and relax your mind.

As the year comes to an end, important chapters in your life start to close when retrograde Vesta enters your subconscious zone on Wednesday. These endings could cause anxiety as you try to cling to the past, even if it no longer serves you. Focus on healing and letting go.

As 2023 comes to a close, you might be feeling some money anxieties when Vesta backs into your value zone on Wednesday. Focus on your budget without fixating on what you lack. Don’t hold on to anything too tightly, Taurus. It could easily slip through your figures.

You’re starting the week on an awkward note when retrograde Vesta enters your social zone on Wednesday.

You might feel a little excluded in the group chat during the holiday season. Don’t take anything too personally now, Leo. No one is mad at you. Everyone’s just busy!

This week could get a little rough when retrograde Vesta enters your sign on Wednesday. This move might make you anxious about the new year and breaking out of your comfort zone. Be gentle with yourself as you face your fears, Gemini.

You’re feeling a little anxious about your career this week when retrograde Vesta enters your reputation zone on Wednesday. And with the holiday season, you could have even more trouble focusing on your goals and be even more unsure of what you want. Take a step back to find your path again.

You could have a hard time focusing on anything when retrograde Vesta enters your expansion zone on Wednesday, so the holidays aren’t a great time for studying. You’ll need to discover what’s really important to you and make it your mission to see it through even if it’s difficult.

You could have a hard time being self-disciplined this week once retrograde Vesta enters your habit zone on Wednesday.

Anxiety and a lack of focus can make it hard to achieve anything. Practice self-care as you find a new routine that works for you.

You’re feeling stubborn this week when retrograde Vesta enters your transformation zone on Wednesday. You might be tempted to cling to things that no longer serve you. Don’t be afraid to change and allow people to help you (especially financially) when you can’t carry the load solo.

You’ll have a hard time expressing yourself or working on creative projects once retrograde Vesta enters your pleasure zone on Wednesday. This retrograde can give you anxiety and create mental blocks. Get over them by doing things you loved as a child, Aquarius, and embrace the magic of the holiday season.

Retrograde Vesta enters your partnership zone on Wednesday, Sagittarius, so do yourself a favor and don’t sign any contracts until after the new year. It’s difficult to read contracts or trust anyone if everybody looks like an enemy.

Pause before your words isolate rather than help you.

This week could easily see some family feuds when retrograde Vesta enters your home zone on Wednesday. If you don’t have emotional support, the holiday dinner could be a little rough. Practice self-care and ask for help when you need it.

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

Land Transportation Office Announces President Marcos Orders Transition to Plastic Driver’s Licenses, Study on Constitutional Revision for Increased Resolving Backlog Foreign Investment

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n a significant move, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) recently declared that it will cease issuing paper-printed driver's licenses, having secured four million plastic cards for imminent delivery.

LTO Chief Vigor Mendoza II affirmed that this quantity is sufficient to eliminate the existing backlog of driver's licenses and cater to the ongoing demand for new applications and renewals.

The plastic cards, procured in collaboration with the Department of Transportation, are expected to begin delivery next month, marking a pivotal transition for license issuance. Mendoza conveyed the announcement, assuring the public that the era of paper licenses is over, and the LTO is fully committed to issuing only plastic driver's licenses.

Additionally, Mendoza addressed the legal aspect of the procurement process, stating that the Office of the Solicitor General (OSG) has escalated an injunction order to the

Photo credit: Eloisa Lopez via Reuters Photo: Inquirer News

Court of Appeals, pertaining to the delivery of 3.3 million plastic cards acquired earlier this year. Should the Court of Appeals rule in favor of the OSG petition, these additional cards would further augment the available supply.

Mendoza expressed optimism, likening the development to an early "Christmas gift" for motorists,

anticipating that by February next year, the delayed 3.3 million plastic cards will serve as a "Valentine's Day" gift to Filipinos. The LTO also provided updates on license plates, indicating that around one million metal plates are now produced monthly, effectively eradicating the backlog for four-wheel vehicle plates.

Philippine Embassy Repatriates 12 Filipinos Amid Hezbollah-Israel Tensions

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n a recent announcement, President Ferdinand Marcos disclosed his directive to initiate a comprehensive study on potential revisions to the Philippines' constitution, aiming to attract more foreign investment. This marks Marcos' first public stance on the issue since assuming the presidency last year.

Highlighting the impact of existing laws derived from the 1987 constitution, Marcos expressed concern that certain provisions may hinder foreign investors from engaging in specific sectors of the economy. The study aims to evaluate the opportunity cost faced by potential investors due to constraints imposed by constitutional economic provisions.

Current restrictions include a ban on foreign equity in mass media and small-scale retail trade.

Moreover, foreigners are limited to

minority ownership in broadcasting, advertising, public utilities, private land and residential building ownership, schools, and deep-sea fishing.

"My primary interest is to try and make our country an investmentfriendly place," stated President Marcos, emphasizing that the study is in its early stages. The President's term extends until mid-2028.

House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez, the president's cousin, separately announced his intention to advocate for changes to the economic provisions of the constitution in the coming year.

However, critics caution against potential abuse of the constitutional amendment process, raising concerns about politicians seeking to extend their terms, echoing the history of President Marcos' late father.

As of now, President Marcos has not provided commentary on the prospect of altering term limits.

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Contact us for Special Pricing on Employment Ads Philippine Ambassador Raymond R. Balatbat (sixth from the right) with the third batch of overseas Filipinos who are permanent residents and dual citizens in Lebanon including their minor children. (Photo from Philippine Embassy in Beirut)

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he Philippine Embassy in Beirut has successfully repatriated 12 Filipinos due to escalating tensions between Hezbollah and the Israeli Defense Forces, according to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA). The repatriates include nine Lebanese permanent residents, an overseas Filipino worker (OFW) housed at the Migrant Workers Office's shelter, and a recently released detainee.

Most of the repatriates lived in areas near the southern border of

Lebanon and Israel, where frequent exchanges of airstrikes and artillery fire occur. They expressed gratitude and thanked the Embassy for facilitating their return during the crisis, marked by the Philippines' Alert Level 3 in Lebanon.

The DFA assured ongoing monitoring of the situation, providing safety measures and advisories to Filipino nationals. Since activating the voluntary repatriation program in October, 110 Filipinos from the affected areas, where Hezbollah

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bases are located, have safely returned to the Philippines as of December 12.

The repatriation efforts involve collaboration between the Philippine Embassy's Assistance-to-Nationals (ATN) Section, the Migrant Workers Office, and the Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA).

The voluntary repatriation program remains open, with interested individuals encouraged to visit https://tinyurl.com/2023Repatriation for more information.

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December 20, 2023 - January 05, 2024

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Holiday Magic on Ice: 'Skate with Santa' Event Supports Families in Need

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even Oaks Arena is now my second home on the weekends as Timbits Hockey, First Shift and Learn to Skate initiatives have been part of my weekend routine. This last weekend, it was nice to be part of a fun, family event that saw the larger community come out and enjoy some ice time.

The Seven Oaks Arena was abuzz with festive spirit last Sunday as the Garden City Community Centre, along with City Councillor Devi Sharma, hosted the annual "Skate with Santa" event. A highlight of the community's holiday calendar, the event featured public skating, face painting, and

a visit from Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus.

This year, "Skate with Santa" attendees were encouraged to support Acorn Family Place by donating new and unwrapped items such as children's socks and underwear, toys and games, children's books, diapers (size 3 and up), and various types of baby formula. In exchange for their generosity, donors received a voucher for a free hot chocolate, warming hearts and hands.

For those who couldn't make it but still wish to contribute, Acorn Family Place continues to welcome donations to support local families during the holidays and beyond.

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