Filipino Journal, Manitoba Edition July 20 - August 05, 2023

MA-BUHAY TAKES ON THE FRINGE!

Live from the 2023 Winnipeg Fringe Festival, Ma-Buhay: The Road to Rainbow Stage is a 60 Minute Workshop Presentation featuring 9 songs from the new, all-Filipino musical: Ma-Buhay! Filipinos Singing For Their Lives in development with Rainbow Stage. Written and directed by Joseph Sevillo, Ma-buhay! The Road to Rainbow Stage has 7 shows at the Tom Hendry Warehouse Theatre (Venue 6) 140 Rupert Ave. from July 19-29.

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Photo courtesy of Rainbow Stage.

Folklorama 2023 Kicks Off at Assiniboine Park

Bring the family down to the Casinos of Winnipeg Folklorama Kick-Off on July 29th at the Assiniboine Park’s Lyric Theatre from 4:00-8:00 pm! This FREE family-friendly celebration will launch Folklorama’s 52nd Festival.

Experience interactive cultural workshops, the 2023 Pavilion Ambassadors parade, and the Pavilion Expo, along with performances, food trucks, children’s activities, and more! This years’ performers

are the Winnipeg Steel Orchestra, Magdaragat Philippines Inc., Ena Sutton Highland Dancers, Manitoba Great Wall Performing Arts, Viva Brasil, Asham Stompers, Croatia Dawn, KEFI Manitoba, Sol de España, India Pavilion Performers, Dance World, and the Zoloto Ukrainian Dance Ensemble.

Meet your hosts! Colleen Bready, CTV Weather (4:00 – 6:00 pm) and Ace Burpee, Virgin 103.1 (6:00 – 8:00 pm)

High Spirits and High-Fives Mark Community Renovation Announcement

The sun was shining, and not as brightly as the smiles on the faces of those gathered at Garden City Collegiate's sports courts on July 17, 2023.

Hon. Andrew Smith, Minister of Municipal Relations, and City of Winnipeg Councillor Devi Sharma arrived, the air was buzzing with anticipation. They weren't there for a casual round of pickleball or to show off their three-pointers. They were there to make a game-changing announcement for the Winnipeg North Sports Group (WNSG) 2023.

WNSG, an all-Filipino team of passionate sports enthusiasts, plans to renovate tennis, pickleball, and basketball courts behind Garden City Collegiate. The project reflects the group's commitment to enhancing local sports infrastructure and fostering a strong community spirit.

Gimli Film Festival - RBC Beach Screenings

The Gimli Film Festival is less than a week away and RBC Beach Sunset Screenings are back for another year of shoreside films! Check out this year's lineup of films and bring your beach chairs and popcorn.

Wednesday, July 26 | Opening Night | 9:45pm

Champions, Comedic Drama (2023), 2h 4m

Thursday, July 27 | Family Night | 9:45pm

Song of the Sea, Animation (2015), 1h 34m

Friday, July 28 | Musical Night | 9:45pm

The Greatest Showman, Musical (2018), 1h 45m

Saturday, July 29 | Blockbuster Night | 9:45pm

Top Gun, Adventure – Action/Adventure (1986), 1h 50m

Sunday, July 30 | Closing Night | 9:45pm

Buffy Sainte-Marie: Carry It On ,Documentary (2022), 1h 46m

For even more info about these films and the FULL festival lineup, head to gimlifilm.com.

Left to Right: Ferdie Arceo, Andrew Abarintos, Bonifacio Ritual, Romilyn Lacap, Hon Minister Andrew Smith, Homer Lacap, Edj Villamar, Noy Manalastas and Councillor Devi Sharma. Photo supplied by Edj Villamar

Ace Burpee Colleen Bready

Philippine Delegation Gears Up for 2023 World Police and Fire Games in Winnipeg

The excitement is building as the 2023 World Police and Fire Games make their way to Winnipeg, Manitoba from July 28 to August 6, 2023. This Olympic-style sports event will see over 8,500 athletes from more than 50 countries competing in more than 60 unique sports, representing law enforcement, firefighters, and police officers from around the globe.

Among the participants, an estimated 50 athletes from the Philippine National Police and Bureau of Fire Protection are set to take part. Led by Police Lieutenant General Rhodel Sermonia, PNP's Deputy Director for Administration, and the 2nd ranking general in the PNP, these athletes are coming from various regions of the PNP and BFP, all traveling at their own expense.

As the Travel Authority and Visa await approval, the athletes' arrival dates vary.The games will be held at prominent locations in Winnipeg, such as the University of Winnipeg, University of Manitoba, Memorial Boulevard, 300 Main Street, Selkirk, and more. The opening ceremony will take place at the Canada Life Centre, while The Forks Market will serve as the Athletes Village and closing ceremony site.

The Filipino community, led by Leila Castro, 204 Neighborhood Watch founder and Ray Forbes Argulla, Bulacan Association incumbent president along with Kenneth Salazar who is volunteering in the games, are eagerly seeking partners and volunteers to support the Philippine delegation. They welcome all forms of assistance, including transportation, monetary sponsorships, and in-kind donations.

A Testimonial Potluck Dinner honoring the delegates will be held on July 31, 2023, at PCCM from 7 pm to 9 pm, where everyone is encouraged to attend and bring food to share.

To offer sponsorship or volunteering, interested parties can

reach out to Kenneth Salazar at 204915-6018 or kennethsalazar7530@ yahoo.ca.

"I have been volunteering ever since and the 2023 World Police and Fire Games is one of my much awaited volunteering because I will not just work on my shift, but I will have the opportunity to cheer my Kababayans playing for the Philippines. I am hoping that our national anthem will be sung during the awarding ceremony. So I encourage all Filipino Winnipeggers to come out and support our athletes," Salazar said.

Photo credit: World Police and Fire Games 2023 web

Some members of the Philippine delegation in the 2019 WPFG in China

Photo credit: PNP Facebook

Let's come together and make the Philippine delegation's participation in the World Police and Fire Games an unforgettable experience!

Flair Airlines' Soaring Success: More Destinations, More Jobs, More Fun!

Canadian ultra-low-cost carrier, Flair Airlines, is carving a trajectory for growth according to CEO Stephen Jones. Presently operating a fleet of 21 Boeing 737s, Flair is making significant strides in Canada's aviation market. It's expanding its network, with Kelowna, London, Ontario, and Victoria being the latest additions to its destination list.

As for future plans, he said, "We're flying mostly domestically, but we'd like to reach warmer destinations as we expand further." Potential new markets, he hinted, include sunny locales in the USA, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

One of Flair's unique impacts on the aviation sector is its commitment to affordability. By maintaining low costs and fares, the airline has stimulated travel among Canadians who found it financially unfeasible previously. "If it's $800 to fly to Vancouver, you're not going to go, but if

it's 100 bucks, you'll go," Jones remarked, highlighting Flair's mission to democratize air travel.

Besides passenger growth, Flair Airlines has also spurred job creation. Directly in Winnipeg, the company has created 136 jobs and spurred 325 tourism-related positions. As Flair's operations grow, Jones anticipates more hiring in various roles.

Addressing the airline's strategy for success, Jones highlighted the importance of a disciplined focus on their core market: price-sensitive leisure travelers. He also expressed pride in Flair's operational performance, stating, "We run 90% load factors, and we're doing it on time." In June, Flair carried 436,000 passengers, a figure he expects to grow as the airline expands its fleet and network. Flair's ambition is not just about growth, but operational excellence, a strategy Jones believes is their key to success.

Flair's CEO Stephen Jones

(L-R) Donna Cantiveros (Filipino Journal), Flair's CEO Stephen Jones, Mike Arnot, Communications and Media Relations, Ron Cantiveros (Filipino Journal)

Ron Cantiveros with First Officer, Captain Bradley Keeping

“Voltes V: Legacy” makes history as the first Philippine TV program in Comic-Con International

GMA Network’s primetime masterpiece “Voltes V: Legacy” continues to dominate the entertainment world as it becomes the first-ever Philippine TV program to participate in the San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2023.

GMA is invited by Dogu Publishing for the biggest annual comics convention in California, USA. The said publishing powerhouse aims to expand the reach of international panels from around the globe, driving the way for a more diverse comic book industry.

SDCC 2023 will take place from July 20 to 23 and will be attended by GMA Senior Vice President Lilybeth G. Rasonable, Assistant Vice President for Drama Helen Rose Sese, Assistant Vice President for Post Operations Vincent C. Gealogo, and Telesuccess Productions Executive Producer Larson Chan.

The highly-anticipated event will also not be complete without the cast of “Voltes V: Legacy” including Miguel Tanfelix (Steve Armstrong), Ysabel Ortega (Jamie Robinson), Gabby Eigenmann (Commander Robinson), and the show’s esteemed director Mark Reyes.

GMA will formally make its Comic-Con debut on July 22 from 10 am to 11 am at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. Afterward, the cast will be signing a limited edition poster on the convention floor.

“Voltes V: Legacy” is produced by GMA Network in collaboration with Telesuccess Productions and Toei Company.

BeaDom now engaged; "decided on forever"

Actors Bea Alonzo and Dominic Roque have officially gotten engaged! Bea shared the exciting news on her social media accounts, recounting how Dominic proposed at Bataan's Las Casas Filipinas de Acuzar on July 18.

According to Bea, during a shoot at Las Casas, celebrity photographer Mark Nicdao kept directing her to turn around for a photo, and when she did, she found Dominic on one knee, holding a ring box. Overwhelmed with joy, love, and excitement, Bea began to cry tears of happiness, cherishing the genuine moment.

Expressing her feelings, Bea said, "I have done so many proposal scenes

in my entire career, but nothing beats the real thing. I have been doing it all wrong! I didn't want that moment to end. I want this real thing to happen forever… and right then there… In front of the people we love… we decided on forever."

Dominic, showing his love for Bea, commented on her Facebook post with "I love you very much" and a heart emoji. Bea responded with equal affection, saying, "Can't wait to do life with you," also using a heart emoji.

Well-wishers congratulated the couple on their engagement.

Bea and Dominic officially confirmed their relationship in August 2021, and after hints of an imminent engagement, the couple's fans are thrilled to witness this beautiful moment in their journey together.

Lea Salonga Stands Firm on Boundaries: Willing to Lose Fans to Protect Personal Space

Broadway star Lea Salonga expressed her willingness to lose fans in order to protect her personal boundaries. In a series of tweets on her Twitter account, Lea emphasized that purchasing a theater or concert ticket does not grant fans all-access privileges, but rather payment for the performance only.

She stated, "The money you pay for a theater/concert ticket does not mean all access. You pay for that performer’s art, and that’s where it stops." Lea further asserted that while she is not one to use foul language, she will assertively defend her territory and boundaries, even if it means losing fans.

Lea addressed the incident by reminding everyone about her boundaries, writing, "Just a reminder… I have boundaries. Do not cross them. Thank you." The video, originally posted by Facebook user Cristopher Retokelly Carpila, captured the moment when Lea

Photo: instagram @beaalonzo

Photo: instagram @msleasalonga

politely declined to take pictures with the group, explaining that they were not on the guest list and she was in her dressing room at the time.

Emmylou Harris, Rufus Wainwright, and More: Legendary Acts Shine at the Winnipeg Folk Festival

By Mike Macaraeg

The 48th edition of the Winnipeg Folk Festival emanated from Birds Hill Park from July 6 to 9 with some rare, cool weather crossing the festival grounds, but that wouldn’t stop the warm hearts of the performers and crowd of 74,500 from making memories.

With a wide array of musicians, the Winnipeg Folk Festival provided audiences with another year of a variety of choices to listen to, including local talents, FONTINE, as well as Juno Award-winning performers William Prince and Adrina Turenne. Performers hailing from all across the globe descended on the festival, including Iceland’s folk musician Arny Margret, Mexico’s Buenrostro, South Korea’s Dongyang Gozupa,

France’s Ko Shin Moon, Ireland’s Susan O’Neill, and Australia’s Vance Joy who brought his energy-filled folk pop production to the Main Stage on the final night of the festival.

The Main Stage provides more well-known entertainment each evening, sprinkled with tweeners that also had their own niche following. Music legends such as Emmylou Harris and Rufus Wainwright graced the stage on Friday evening, while KT Tunstall, Fleet Foxes, and The War on Drugs provided closing entertainment on some of the other evenings.

For more family-oriented content, the Winnipeg Folk Festival has a veritable plethora of activities from musicians like British Columbian

artists Ginalina and RupLoops, as well as facepainting, and arts and crafts activities in their Chickadee Big Top tent. One of the more unique aspects of the festival is the STINGRAY Young Performers Program, which aligns some of the festival performers as mentors to young artists to aid in crafting their songs, followed by a performance on the second day of the festival. Young Performers are aged 14-24 and spend a day workshopping with their mentors for an incredible learning experience. This year, Filipino Winnipegger Maria Aragon, known from her viral cover of Lady Gaga’s song Born This Way, had the opportunity to learn from the aforementioned Irish

Susan O’Neill.

day music experience that provides entertainment for all ages, with some festival-goers who attend annually in upwards of 50 years! Next year’s Winnipeg Folk Festival runs from July 11-14, 2024.

Vance Joy Rufus Wainwright singer-songwriter

City Hall Flag Raising T

o celebrate the 125th Philippine Independence, a flag-raising ceremony was held at Winnipeg City Hall under the auspices of the officers and members of the Knights of Rizal, Winnipeg Chapter. Led by Sir Knight Mohamed Ali, Chapter Commander, LM, assisted by Sir Tom Colina, Aadvisor Western Canada; and other members, assisted by his Worship Mayor Scott Gillingham; and the sponsoring associations led by Lady Julie Holland Javier, President of MaCCFA; Letty Antonio, President of OFSAM.

Sir Gem Anis emceed the program while Ronald Mervin Sison performed the Philippines National Anthem. Letty Antonio, President of OFSAM, introduced Mayor Scott Gillingham while Lady Claire Ortega Nazario led the prayer.

Sir Mohammed Ali and Sir Tom Colina as well as His Worship Scott Gillingham addressed the ceremony with a touch of historical journeys for the Philippines and for the more than 100,000 Filipinos who call Manitoba as their home.

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Hon. Jon Reyes, MLA Waverly West, Minister of Labour and Immigration, cited the contributions of Filipinos, as economic engines in Manitoba, and in Winnipeg.

Other guests include some officers and members of many Filipino organizations in Manitoba and Winnipeg. A simple brunch was served at the City Hall Mayor's office, courtesy of MaCCFA, by Lady Claire Ortega Nazario.

The current officers of Winnipeg Chapters

include Sir Mohamad Ali, Area Commander; Sir Eli Mones, Deputy Chapter Commander; Sir Nap Ebora, Chancellor; Sir Kenneth Green, Pursuivant; Sir Art Domingo, Exchequer; Sir Jaime de la Cruz, Archivist, Sir Rand Viray, Auditor; Sir Rene Carino, Deputa Exchequer; Sir Ray Sator, Chair, Membership.

The upcoming fundraising event will be held on August 27th, Pancake Breakfast at Kildonan Park, 7 am to 12 noon.

Visit

SNEAK PEEK TO MA-BUHAY AT THE WINNIPEG FRINGE FESTIVAL

Ma-buhay! The Road to Rainbow Stage is a workshop presentation of creator, Joseph Sevillo’s new musical Ma-buhay! Filipinos Singing For Their Lives. Though it isn’t the full musical just yet, this 60-minute workshop presentation will feature 9 songs from the musical. You will witness dynamic choreography from 4 upcoming Filipino choreographers, folk dance, animations and videography by 10 students from Sisler’s Create Program (the team that did the Filipino Heritage Night for the Winnipeg Jets), and costumes generously supplied by Paquin Entertainment Group. This presentation is a sneak peak of our world premiere. It will inspire, uplift and make you feel that anything is possible when you

have purpose and passion. The story of Ma-Buhay is set in present-day Winnipeg, and follows three young Filipinos from different economic backgrounds as they compete in the grand finale of a prestigious singing competition, ‘Star On The Rise’ to prove to the judges, their families and the country that they are worthy of the national title. Ma-Buhay is a part of Rainbow Stage’s investment in New Work to provide representation for the cultural mosaic of Manitoba. Rainbow Stage is supporting MaBuhay through a 3-phase development plan, with the goal of producing its world premiere production in 2024! Joseph Sevillo is a performer, writer, creator, director and more. With over 25 years of experience, he is a fierce force in the industry. Throughout the 5 years of developing this new musical, Sevillo prioritized the professional development of young Filipino artists in Winnipeg and has created more than 100 paid opportunities for emerging and professional artists ranging from Ages 8-74. Sevillo believes that identification is inspiration. Sevillo’s goal with Ma-Buhay is to create opportunities and increase representation of Filipinos in the professional theatre.

VENUE: Tom Hendry Warehouse Theater (Venue 6), 140 Rupert Ave SHOW TIMES: July 19 9:15pm, July 21 3:00pm, July 22 8:15pm, July 25 12:45pm, July 26 6:00pm, July 28 11:00am, and July 29 4:15pm.

For more information and to buy tickets, visit WinnipegFringe.com

Filipino Entrepreneurs Making Waves in Manitoba

Exploring new Pinoy-owned businesses in Portage la Prairie and Dauphin

by: Donna Cantiveros

In the vast expanse of Manitoba, this summer's exploration led to the discovery of hidden gems – Filipino-owned businesses thriving and making a positive impact in their communities.

In the quaint town of Portage La Prairie, Portage Sari-sari Store just opened last June. Owned by the enterprising Joylen Gellamucho, who once ran a successful medical supply business in Davao, she sensed the need for a Pinoy store amidst the growing number of fellow kababayans in the area. Joylen envisions expanding to include services like money remittance and freight forwarding, while juggling her roles in a settlement office and as part of Honeybee Catering, specializing in delectable Filipino dishes. She eagerly anticipates meeting not only locals from Portage La Prairie but also visitors from other cities, bringing a taste of the Philippines to Manitoba.

Further north, in Dauphin, Cafe Trocadero, a charming drive-thru and outdoor cafe with a unique twist awaits! Originally from Cebu, Manny and Lorraine, alongside their partner, Daphne Panes, embarked on a culinary adventure in Canada. Acquiring Cafe Trocadero from a French couple, they decided to honor the establishment's legacy by retaining the name and menu while adding their own creative flair. Among their innovations, they introduced the beloved Filipino dessert, halo-halo, with a delightful purple yam or ube-flavored ice-shaving surprise. Melding tradition with innovation, they concocted a blend of ube, ice, sugar and milk to serve as ube ice cream in their own version of halo-halo, winning the hearts of customers, even those unfamiliar with Filipino cuisine.

These ventures may face challenges, but the owners see tremendous potential and are grateful for the support they have garnered since they opened. As the summer unfolds, these Filipino-owned businesses continue to add flavor and joy to the Manitoba landscape, showcasing the vibrant spirit of the Filipino community and leaving a lasting mark on their newfound home.

SEA BEARS TO EXPAND SEATING FOR FINAL REGULAR-SEASON GAME AFTER THREE STRAIGHT SELLOUTS

WINNIPEG – The Winnipeg Sea Bears of the Canadian Elite Basketball League (CEBL) announced Wednesday that, due to incredible demand by fans, the team will open the full lower bowl of Canada Life Centre for its final regular-season home game on Saturday, July 29 against the Edmonton Stingers.

Capacity for the game will now exceed 7,300 fans, making way for the Sea Bears to break their own CEBL single-game attendance record of 7,328 fans set by their season opener on May 27. The announcement comes after consecutive sellout crowds in Winnipeg’s three most recent home games.

In the team’s inaugural season, the Sea Bears have been privileged with an unprecedented level of support from the Winnipeg community. The club’s first-ever game set the CEBL attendance record after adding nearly 2,000 seats to its original configuration. The Sea Bears have since sold out four more home games, and now own the five most-attended games in league history.

“We are truly humbled by the support we have received from the community throughout this season,” said Sea Bears owner and chairman David Asper. “I can’t think of a better way to send our

players off into the playoffs than with the roar of a huge Sea Bears crowd on July 29.”

With the Edmonton Stingers’ July 15 victory over the Saskatchewan Rattlers, the Sea Bears became the second team in the CEBL to clinch a 2023 postseason berth. The Ottawa BlackJacks of the Eastern Conference secured their spot one day earlier with their win over the Scarborough Shooting Stars. Winnipeg can ensure a home playoff matchup with a defeat of the Calgary Surge in their next game, a road matchup Thursday night at 8 p.m. CT. The game will be streamed live on TSN+ and CEBL+ powered by BetVictor.

If Winnipeg finishes with the best record in the Western Conference, they will host the winner of the conference’s play-in game for the chance to advance to the Championship Weekend semifinals against the host Vancouver Bandits. A second-place finish would place the Sea Bears as host of the play-in game. As the host team, the Bandits receive an automatic bye to the Championship Weekend semifinals.

The Sea Bears look forward to welcoming Sea Bears Nation to Canada Life Centre on July 29 to celebrate a truly special inaugural season. For tickets, visit seabears. ca/tickets.

Joylen Gellamucho

Lorraine and Manny Montebon, Daphne Panes

Sa Úgoy ng Músika Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 41

Originated in the late '60s, revived a decade later, and peaked in the 1980s, New Wave took a backseat after that, but only in a commercial perspective--and that seems natural. But the sound of New Wave never really died.

When other styles of music took their turn in enjoying the spotlight in the late '80s and the decades that followed, many music enthusiasts jumped ship and switched their rudder to whatever was new and exciting to them--Metal and Grunge, for instance. That was okay; I swam in them, too.

However, I never turned my back on New Wave; I simply diversified my taste. I stayed in touch and kept myself updated. After all, much of what the scoop-hungry press was rebranding as Alternative Rock, Indie Rock, or Britpop was just a continuation or extension of a broad spectrum of stylistically interrelated genres that started in the 1960s.

This set consists of some of the pioneers of what became Britpop--a concoction of '60s Sunshine/Psychedelic/Bubblegum Pop, '70s Art Rock & Post-Punk, and '80s Indie / New Wave. New name; the same beautiful sound.

* Pulp - It (1983) ("My Lighthouse")

* The Stone Roses - The Stone Roses (1989) ("She Bangs the Drums")

* Inspiral Carpets - Life (1990)

("This Is How It Feels")

* The Farm - Spartacus (1991) ("Altogether Now")

* Kitchens of Distinction

- Love Is Hell (1989)

("Mainly Mornings")

* Blur - Leisure (1991)

("There Is No Other Way")

* Oasis - Definitely Maybe (1994) ("Live Forever")

* Suede - Suede (1993) ("Animal Nitrate")

(Crossword) PALAISIPAN

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

Copyright @ horoscope.com

You’re starting the new week (and new month) on a successful note with the full moon in Capricorn on Monday. With the moon in your career zone, you can finally get rewarded for all your hard work. There’s a strong possibility of achieving a major goal or a boost in your reputation. It’s time to celebrate, Aries!

You’re starting July on an adventurous note during the full moon in Capricorn and your expansion zone on Monday. This is a great day to get outside of your comfort zone. Whether you’re going on a mini vacation, attending classes, or exploring your own path, Taurus, follow your heart.

July is a month of changes for you, Gemini, starting on Monday when the full moon is in Capricorn and your transformation zone. As the changes you made during winter start to bloom, don’t be afraid to let go of the past and move on to something better. You’re finally ready to become your best self.

Start July with some major fireworks during the full moon in Capricorn and your partnership zone on Monday. This is a great day to seal the deal on any important partnership before the upcoming retrograde season. You can achieve big things if you have someone by your side, Cancer.

If you’ve been working hard toward your goals over the last six months, you’ll start seeing results during the full moon in Capricorn and your productivity zone on Monday. This full moon gives you major energy as you see your healthy habits pay off in big ways. If you haven’t been working hard, well, Leo, it isn’t too late to start!

You’re starting July with fireworks when the full moon is in Capricorn and your pleasure zone on Monday. Whether your latest flirtation leads to a spark or you’re finishing a creative project you’ve been working on, now is the time to show off and celebrate your happiness.

Start the new month by spending time with your loved ones during the full moon in Capricorn on Monday. The moon is in your family zone, making it a perfect time for barbecues, pool parties, and spending days with the people you love. Handle any domestic affairs now so you can focus on the good times.

If you’ve been waiting to have an important conversation with someone, the time to have it is during the Capricorn full moon on Monday. The moon in your communication zone gives you the courage and skill to address any lingering problem you’ve been dealing with. Speak now, Scorpio!

July begins with a lesson in give and take during the Capricorn full moon on Monday, moving into your value zone. You’re a very generous person, but being too kind to chronic users won’t pay off in the long run. See if the budget you set over the winter is working, and remember to invest in yourself.

You’re starting July with some major fireworks during the full moon in your sign on Monday, encouraging you to celebrate yourself and have some fun. You’ll be in your full power as you shine in the spotlight, so this is a great time to try new things. Those new opportunities you found in winter can blossom now.

While July is a time for fireworks and celebrations, you’ll be keeping a low profile during the full moon in Capricorn and your privacy zone on Monday. You’ll want to be alone to sit with your thoughts, especially as secrets come out into the open and you have to deal with hurt feelings. Handle these issues before the retrograde.

You’re starting the month on a social note during the full moon in Capricorn and your friendship zone on Monday. This is a great day to attend a barbecue with friends, volunteer for a social cause, or see if the wishes you made during winter have come true. Look out for windfalls!

Philippines Ascends in Global Passport Ranking

PhilSys and SSS Collaborate for Seamless Public Services

The Philippines has made significant progress in the Henley Passport Index, climbing four spots in the third quarter of this year. The index, which measures the travel freedom of citizens from various countries, now places the Philippine passport at 74th, up from 78th in 2022.

Henley & Partners managing director, Scott Moore, suggests that the country's growing economy may have contributed to this improvement. Since the inception of the index in 2006, the Philippines' highest ranking was 62nd in 2009, while its lowest rankings were 80th in 2015 and 2022.

Filipinos can currently travel to 67 countries visa-free, including several Southeast Asian nations. The Henley Passport Index evaluates 199 passports worldwide based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA)

For 2023, Singapore has taken the lead, surpassing Japan as the world's most powerful passport. Germany, Italy, and Spain share the second spot while Japan now holds third place.

Despite the passport ranking achievement, the Philippines' tourism sector has faced recent challenges, including issues with campaign slogans and domestic airport inconveniences.

ICC Granted Authority to Pursue Drug War Crimes Investigation in the Philippines

The Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA) and the Social Security System (SSS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on July 11 to collaborate on the adoption of the Philippine Identification System (PhilSys) within the SSS operations. The MOU aims to establish a framework for cooperation and explore joint projects to enhance public services using the digital identification system.

Dennis Mapa, the National Statistician, expressed his appreciation

to SSS for their commitment to simplifying transactions and providing seamless services through PhilSys. He believes that the cooperation between PhilSys and SSS will facilitate a smooth transition to digital citizen-centric service delivery.

The signing ceremony was attended by key officials from PSA and SSS, including Social Security President and CEO Rolando Ledesma Macasaet.

Previously, on March 22, PSA collaborated with the Department of Social Welfare and Development

(DSWD) to utilize the PhilSys registry in the "Listahanan" or National Household Targeting System for Poverty Reduction. This system aims to create a database of poor households to better identify beneficiaries for social protection programs and eliminate duplicate and ghost beneficiaries.

As of July 11, 2023, PSA reported that 80,004,098 Filipinos have already been registered under the PhilSys program, indicating its widespread adoption and impact on the Filipino population.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) has been granted the authority to request arrest warrants in connection with drugrelated deaths. The Appeals Chamber of the ICC in The Hague will rule on the Philippine government's appeal to halt the investigation into alleged crimes against humanity during the war on drugs under former president Rodrigo Duterte and ex-PNP chief Ronald dela Rosa.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla has made it clear that the government will not cooperate with ICC prosecutors and will not implement any arrest warrant issued by the court. However, the ICC

can now proceed with determining who may be charged with crimes against humanity in the context of the war on drugs.

The ICC's decision, published on July 18, allows the investigation to resume concerning the thousands of extrajudicial killings and rights abuses that occurred during Duterte's drug war. Official government records state that at least 6,200 people were killed in police operations, but human rights groups claim the actual death toll could be as high as 12,000 to 30,000. Despite the ICC ruling, Sen. Ronald dela Rosa, the chief implementer of the drug war, remains unfazed by the decision.

Photo source: Shutterstock

Building of the International Criminal Court in The Hague, Netherlands. PHILIPPINE STAR/MICHAEL VARCAS

Photo source: psa.gov.ph

Staycations and Day Trips: Answering the Call of Canada's Heart in Manitoba

This summer, Travel Manitoba's 'Canada's Heart is Calling' campaign has inspired Manitobans to explore their own backyard. Whether it's through staycations in Winnipeg or day trips to neighboring towns, adventures are just a short drive away.

We kicked off our summer travel adventures last month with something a little different - a weekend staycation in Winnipeg. Our family summer staycation had us relaxing in the pool at the Hyatt House South Winnipeg, playing arcades at The Rec Room, enjoying lots of retail therapy at Outlet Collection and feasting at Sukothai in Osborne Village.

Other popular road trip destinations for throughout the summer have included dinner runs to Half Moon in Lockport, or digging into fish & chips in Gimli. Many more trips to check out favourite food spots are in store for the rest of the summer including Steinbach, Portage La Prarie, Brandon and Filipino bbq feasts at popular provincial parks.

Sama-sama Summer: Discovering Manitoba's Camping Spots

In this edition of "Sama Sama Summer", Filipinos in Manitoba share their experiences of the magic of Manitoba's great outdoors. We've invited our readers to share their unforgettable camping adventures across the province. From pristine lakeshores to dense forests, Manitoba offers a diverse range of breathtaking landscapes waiting to be explored. Discover hidden gems, pitch your tent under starlit skies, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Let's celebrate the joy of camping and the beauty of Filipino summer adventures in Manitoba's wilderness. Sama-sama tayo sa kasiyahan ng camping!

For August, let's discover Manitoba's favorite fishing spots. Send your summer fishing adventures next month! Stories and photos can be sent to info@filipinojournal.com

And we also jumped in our car to hit up the towns of Carman, Morden, and Winkler in Southwest Manitoba. Carman, home to Syl's Drive-Thru, where a classic meal of burgers and fries awaits and to our surprise, there's a new MiniGolf course to enjoy after a hearty meal. In Morden, visitors are welcomed with warm hospitality and the stunning Canadian Fossil Discovery Centre. Here, children and kids-at-heart can marvel at the giant marine reptile fossils and

learn about ancient creatures that once roamed Manitoba's lands. For more family fun, visit Sharptooth Adventures and Colert Beach at Lake Minnewasta. Before heading back to Winnipeg, we capped off our Southwest Manitoba tour with signature burgers at Charley B's. This summer, answer the call of Canada's heart. Remember, sometimes the best adventures are right in your own backyard. Until next time!

Robelyn Chan Otter Falls Campground

Engle-Jones Aquino and Katrina Ebalde @Black Lake Campground Manitoba

Melanie Librea Family and friends in one frame at Wild Oaks Campground

Amy Natividad Black Lake Provincial Park

Geline and family at Rainbow Beach in Dauphin

Kaiser Kathe Santos Tormo at Duck Mountain Provincial Park and Blue Lakes Resort

Growing Filipino community in Steinbach joins Summer in the City fest

During the Summer in the City festival held on June 16-18, 2023, in Steinbach, Manitoba, the South Eastman Filipino Association (SEMFA) actively participated and made a significant impact. The president of SEMFA,

Greg Carlos, acknowledged the rapid growth of the Southeast region of Manitoba, particularly in Steinbach and its surrounding areas.

For several years, SEMFA has been a proud participant in the festival, showcasing their traditional BBQ

pork and local talents. This year's event was particularly successful, with an impressive sale of 600 lbs. of pork. The proceeds from the sales will be instrumental in supporting SEMFA's annual programs and activities, enabling them to continue their invaluable services to the Filipino community in the region.

The festival also presented an opportunity for cultural exchange and appreciation, with SEMFA collaborating with the BIBAK ASSOCIATION of Manitoba, Steinbach Chapter, to showcase their captivating cultural dances. This collaboration allowed them to share the essence

of Filipino culture and emphasized the importance of unity and diversity within the community.

Overall, the Summer in the City festival served as a heartwarming occasion that brought people together, fostering a strong sense of belonging and pride within the community.

Photos provided by: Greg Michael Carlos