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

CELEBRATION OF FILIPINO HERITAGE

The "Pista sa MAFTI, Wika, Kultura, Pamana at Iba Pa." brought together Filipino heritage students from 14 different classes, their families, and diverse community members, creating a gathering of an estimated 340 students including this class from Lord Nelson School. The Manitoba Filipino Association of Teachers Inc (MAFTI) continue to provide valuable opportunities for Filipino heritage students to connect with their roots while sharing their culture with the larger community

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Filipinos unite this June!

Florante at Laura SeaBears celebrate Phil Independence FEATURE | 9, 10 ► SPORTS | 4 ► Royal Blood unveiled STARIRAY | 19 ► COMMUNITY | 5, 6 ►

Photo by Ron Cantiveros | Filipino Journal

May the spirit of Filipino tradition be with you

Wishing you moments of joy with family, friends and neighbours all throughout this month as you celebrate 125 years of Philippine independence.

Maligayang Buwan ng Pamanang Pilipino from everyone at RBC!

SEA BEARS CELEBRATE PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE

Winnipeg Sea Bears recognize Philippine Independence Day with pre-game tributes of Filipino basketball heritage in Winnipeg by honouring Manny Aranez, Muriel Masangkay, Randy Viray and Reynold Reyes as the large 60ft by 30ft Philippine flag was unfurled in front of a sold-out crowd at Canada Life Centre. At the halftime break, dancers from Magdaragat Philippines, hosts of the Folklorama Philippine Pearl of the Orient Pavilion demonstrated traditional Philippine dances including tinikling. At the "We Got Next" Pre-Game Party at True North Square, Filipino talents - Brakada, Reynalyne Gacilan, DJ D-Luxx and DJ Ryan Reyes provided live entertainment to kick off the evening celebrations. Photos and videos from the evening also came from a collaboration with the Pinoy Photographers of Winnipeg and Filipino creative talents. Enjoy the photos. Videos are to be posted on FilipinoJournal.com and our social media channels. Go Sea Bears Go!

Photo by Danny Truong

Photo by Star Roxas

Photo by Francis Magtoto

Photo by Francis Magtoto

Photo by Jay del Rosario

Photo by Jay del Rosario

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

Photo by Ron Cantiveros

Photo by Milmar Abella

Photo by David Marcus

The month of June is undeniably the busiest month for the Filipino community in Winnipeg. Once again, we all came together to celebrate the 125th Philippine Independence and Philippine Heritage in Canada, showcasing our unity and cultural pride. Various groups, organizations, and leaders orchestrated events

MFSF, Save On Foods celebrate Philippine Independence

and historical significance, embodying the rich heritage of the Philippines. Philippine Independence Day itself stood as a remarkable achievement, commemorating the sacrifices of national heroes and honoring the country's sovereignty. It instilled a strong sense of nationalism among citizens and provided an opportunity to celebrate the diverse culture and traditions of the Filipino people across the world.

PCCM Flag Raising

Second FCNC Leadership Convention and Gala

By: Genalyn Tan

In celebration of Filipino Heritage Month, the Filipino Canadian National Congress (FCNC) recently held its 2nd Leadership Convention and Gala on June 3, 2023, at Halifax Tower Hotel and Convention Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia. More than 100 attendees from across Canada attended the event. It was hosted by Jake Salcedo and Gina Moreno. Narima Dela Cruz gave the Welcome Remarks. The morning event featured keynote speaker Atty. Loida Lewis, a Philanthropist, and author of "Why Should Guys Have All the Fum," and MP Rick Perkins for South Shore-St. Margarets and the afternoon keynote speaker included Senator Flordeliz (Gigi) Osler. Plenary Session 1 featured a breakout group activity on the topic “Leading a Transformational Change in the Organization and Plenary Session 2 is a panel discussion on Demystifying Government Grant Application. The panelists are Genalyn Tan, Marjorie Newman, Roland Moreno, and Eddie Villarta. The event was moderated by Claire de la Gana and Regina Sosing, and the emcee was Mary Grace Goldenberg.

The FCNC Gala was attended by esteemed guests like Honourary Consul Connie Lacson, MP Lena Metlege Diab, Halifax West, and Hon. Jill Balser. NS Minister of Labour, Skills & Immigration and Hon. Senator Flordeliz (Gigi) Osler. It was highlighted by the keynote speaker MP Salma Sahid, Scarborough

Centre and was introduced by Genalyn Tan. The emcee is Maryjane Napolitano and Cris Rodriguez . MP Kevin Lamoureux and MP Rechie Valdez sent their video greetings.

The gala featured a variety of cultural performances, including traditional dances and music like the Sinulog, Tinikling, and others showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines. They would like to thank the sponsors and patrons who supported the event.

FCNC

Officers are Narima Dela Cruz (BC)

President, Ronnie Dela Gana (ON)

1st Vice President, Genalyn Tan (MB) 2nd Vice President, Eddie Villarta (ON) Secretary, Virginia Sumalinog (AB) Asst. Secretary, Maryjane Napolitano (MB) Treasurer, and Jake Salcedo (NS) Treasurer. The Board of Directors are Jerry Caingcoy (AB), Butch Juson (SK), Treenee Lopez (BC), Gina Moreno (NB), Mary Grace Goldenberg (QC), Chris Rodriguez (SK), Aurora Viernes (YT), Arlene Evangelista (MB)Accountant, Atty. Antonio Villarin (ON) Legal Advisor.

Overall, the FCNC 2nd Leadership Convention and Gala was a great success, bringing together individuals and promoting connections between various organizations

from coast to coast to coast- a testament to the vibrant Filipino community in Canada.

Florante at Laura

By Ronald Mervin Sison

On June 10 2023 history was made as the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba presented the first ever full read of Francisco Balagtas’ epic poem Florante at Laura in Canada. The production was a collaboration between the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba, Magdaragat Philippines Inc, members of MAFTI, and community volunteers. Conceptualized by director Ronald Mervin Sison in early 2023 initially as a reading, the production evolved into a collaboration with a cast of 45 that included teachers, students, and working professionals; some of whom have never done theatre before. The collaboration’s creative choreography was directed by Goldie Garcia of Magdaragat, Filipino language consultants for the readers were Vicky Cabrera and Genalyn Tan, and Assistant Director was Tricia Magsino Barnabe.

Francisco Balagtas, the “Prince of Filipino Poets”, wrote the Florante at Laura while in prison and published it in 1838 dedicated to the great love of his life Maria Asuncion Rivera (MAR). While an old Tagalog work, the story of Florante at Laura is set in the 1500s when the Renaissance period was underway, the Christian Crusades had long ended, Constantinople has not fallen, and the Muslim Turks and Persians were sweeping into Europe. The Kingdom of Albania (present day country of Albania) is the country of Florante, the Kingdom of Krotona (present day Crotone in Southern Italy) is the kingdom of Laura, Athens (Athens in present day Greece) is where Florante studied, Persia (modern day Iran) is where Aladdin and Flerida are from.

A 2pm invitational show was held for family and friends followed by a music evening featuring the MAFTI Rondalla playing beloved tunes and both Ronald Mervin Sison and Tricia Magsino Barnabe rendering kundiman and classical songs for the cast and guests. The 7pm show was well attended with nearly 300 people in attendance seats reaching to the end of PCCM hall and dignitaries like Hon. Consul Opina, MLA Mintu Sandhu, and MP Kevin Lamoureaux attending.

The performance was immersive with the readers and the lighting accentuating the Magdaragat choreography, at the same time having the original Tagalog text of the Florante at Laura being projected for the audience to see. After the company bows each of the 45 cast members were called and acknowledged to take an individual bow. To close out the evening Ronald Mervin Sison and Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba President Perla Javate announced next year’s offering for Philippine Heritage Month will be a new production of Dr. Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere.

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Seven Oaks Filipino Employees Association, Inc. (SOFEA, Inc.)

in collaboration with Seven Oaks School Division and Maples Collegiate came together on June 9, 2023, to host a vibrant event celebrating the Philippine Heritage in Canada and the 125th Philippine Independence. Held at Judy Silver Commons in Maples Collegiate, the event attracted a diverse audience eager to immerse themselves in the rich Filipino culture.

The festivities commenced with a captivating Cultural Exhibit, showcasing the colorful history, traditions, and landmarks of the Philippines. Attendees marveled at the intricate craftsmanship and visual displays that welcomed attendees, providing a glimpse into the nation's heritage.

The highlight of the celebration was the breathtaking display of Filipino talent. Students from the Seven Oaks School Division, along with guest performers, took to the stage, mesmerizing the crowd with enchanting folk songs and captivating dance performances. The energy and passion exuded by the young performers showcased their deep connection to their roots.

Philippine Heritage and Independence Day celebration

Pista sa MAFTI 2023: Wika, Kultura, Pamana at Iba Pa

In celebration of the Philippine Independence and Philippine Heritage in Canada, the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers, Inc (MAFTI) hosted the MAFTI 2023: Wika, Kultura, Pamana at Iba Pa, which took place last June 10 at Judy Commons, Maples Collegiate. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation through their cultural performances from various schools, including Dufferin School, Ecole Salisbury Morse Place School, Keewatin

Prairie Community School, Lord Nelson School, Sargent Park School, Shaughnessy Park School, Stanley Knowles School, and Wellington School. Present also was the Filipino Heritage Language Online Class. The occasion was graced by esteemed guests, including MP Kevin Lamoureux, Labour and Immigration Minister Jon Reyes, Winnipeg School Division Board of Trustee Ann Evangelista, Wellington School Principal Emil Contreras, Maples

MLA Mintu Sandhu, Honorary Consul Ronaldo Opina, and Elder Council Chairperson Harry Bone. The event showcased performances by the MAFTI dancers and an awarding ceremony for the Filipino Heritage Class of 2023 with a congratulatory message from Kyle Duque. Pista sa MAFTI 2023 celebrated the rich Filipino language, culture, heritage, and much more, creating a vibrant and memorable experience for all attendees.

NDRRMC Prepares for Potential Evacuation of 30,000 Families as Mayon Volcano Unrest Continues

Majority of Filipino Students Oppose Mandatory ROTC, Survey Shows

Asurvey conducted by the Catholic Educational Association of the Philippines (CEAP) has revealed that 53 percent of students from member-schools are against the proposal to reintroduce mandatory Reserve Officers' Training Corps (ROTC) for all college students.

The survey, conducted from April 3 to 24, gathered responses from 20,461 individuals, with 65 percent (13,210) being female and 35 percent (7,251) male.

Out of the total respondents, 37 percent were Grade 11 students, 33 percent were Grade 12 students, and 30 percent were college undergraduates.

percent stating their agreement.

Nineteen percent of participants remained undecided on the matter.

Those who opposed the return of mandatory ROTC cited concerns of increased burden on students, additional financial costs for families, potential violence and corruption,

and conflicts with their religious beliefs.

Supporters of mandatory ROTC mentioned the benefits of basic military training, physical exercise, disaster preparedness, civic engagement, patriotism, nationalism, discipline, and the provision of military uniforms.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), has announced that preparations are underway to evacuate approximately 30,000 families in Albay, as the situation surrounding the restive Mayon Volcano continues to escalate. Currently at Alert Level 3, the volcano poses a significant threat, prompting authorities to make necessary arrangements for the safety of residents.

According to Asst. Secretary Bernardo Rafaelito Alejandro IV, spokesperson for the NDRRMC, there are already close to 5,000 families, totaling approximately 17,500 individuals, residing in 25 evacuation centers across Albay. However, if the alert level is raised, the number of families seeking refuge could reach 30,000.

The primary challenge faced by authorities is the effective management

of the evacuation centers, ensuring they are properly equipped with adequate facilities for sanitation and hygiene. The majority of the centers are located in schools, and a crucial concern is how to sustain the education of the affected students.

Additionally, maintaining appropriate social distancing measures in the cramped centers to prevent COVID-19 infections is a priority. The Department of Health has provided instructions to ensure proper management and minimize the risk of virus transmission.

The NDRRMC is collaborating with various government agencies to provide sufficient space and comfort for evacuees, while urging local residents to prioritize their safety by leaving their homes. Efforts will be made to decongest the centers in coordination with local government units.

According to CEAP, the survey results showed that 53 percent of respondents disagreed with the reinstatement of mandatory ROTC. Of those, 32 percent strongly disagreed, while 21 percent simply disagreed. Meanwhile, 28 percent agreed, with 22 percent strongly in favor and 6

Strong Magnitude-6.3 Earthquake

Rocks Calatagan, Batangas, Jolting

Parts of Luzon and Metro Manila

Apowerful magnitude-6.3 earthquake struck Calatagan town in Batangas last June 15, causing tremors across Luzon, including Metro Manila.

In Metro Manila, there have been no immediate reports of damage. However, the Ninoy Aquino International Airport closed its runway for inspection, and the major train lines in the area temporarily suspended operations.

Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol stated that the strong tremor likely originated from the Manila Trench, given its depth of 103 kilometers. While damage to houses can occur with an earthquake of this magnitude, the depth of the temblor suggests that the impact may be less severe.

No tsunami warning has been issued in relation to the quake. Reports indicate that the intensity of shaking reached Level IV, classified

as moderately strong, in several areas including Manila, Mandaluyong, Quezon City, Batangas City, and Dasmariñas City.

Weaker shaking was felt in other

locations

was also perceptible in several towns and cities in Pangasinan,

Photo source: STAR / Andy Zapata Jr.

Photo source: Albay Provincial Information Office

Photo source: Erwin T. Lim

Photo source: Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS-DOST) Facebook

such as Makati, Pasig, and San Pedro City. The earthquake

Bulacan, Rizal, Tarlac, and La Union.

“Royal Blood” unveils murder mystery on GMA Telebabad this June 19

Get ready for the biggest murder mystery series on Philippine primetime TV that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seats via “Royal Blood.”

Beginning June 19, Kapuso

Primetime King Dingdong Dantes makes his highly-anticipated comeback to the small screen as he headlines the series as Napoy.

The upcoming masterpiece of GMA Network boasts of a stellar cast comprising Megan Young as Diana, the ex-girlfriend and great love of Napoy; Mikael Daez as Kristoff, the half-brother of Napoy and husband of Diana; Dion Ignacio as Andrew, the ambitious and businesssavvy husband of Margaret; Lianne Valentin as Beatrice, the witty and materialistic daughter of Gustavo; Miss Universe Philippines 2020

Rabiya Mateo as Tasha, the kindhearted neighbor of Napoy who has secret feelings for him; and Rhian Ramos as Margaret, Gustavo’s conservative yet mysterious child.

Playing a special and significant role in the program is multi-awarded actor Mr. Tirso Cruz III as Gustavo Royales, the rich and shrewd business tycoon and patriarch of the Royales family.

Also part of the series are Ces Quesada as Aling Cleofe, the head female servant of the Royales family;

Benjie Paras as Otep, Napoy’s most trusted friend; Carmen Soriano as Camilla, the evil mother-in-law of Napoy; and Arthur Solinap as Emil, a renowned investigator who will be in charge of the murder mystery.

“Royal Blood” follows the story of Napoy, a loving single father working as a motorcycle rider to provide for his daughter's needs. He is also the bastard son of a business tycoon. But despite facing

financial problems, Napoy is able to provide for his child with the help of his friends and neighbors. However, chaos ensues when Napoy's estranged father suddenly appears and wants to make amends with him. As Napoy enters the family of his wealthy father, he gets to know his half-siblings. Sooner or later, things become more complicated when their father is murdered and Napoy becomes the primary suspect.

Ellen Adarna Opens Up About Emotional Stress After Quitting Smoking

Actress Ellen Adarna candidly shared her struggles with withdrawal symptoms after quitting smoking, referring to it as one of her "poor choices in life."

In an Instagram Stories update, Adarna discussed feeling mentally, emotionally, and physically off due to the process. She revealed a small red bump on her lower eyelid, which

she attributed to the emotional stress caused by detaching from vaping. Adarna acknowledged her strong demons but expressed determination in overcoming them.

When asked by a netizen if she still experiences depressed days, Adarna admitted to feeling low, especially due to her reliance on vaping. However, she emphasized

her resolve to push through, giving herself a few days to feel off before snapping out of it. Adarna took responsibility for her decision to vape and acknowledged that she had only herself to blame. Adarna, who recently married actor Derek Ramsay, shared her plans to have a child this year.

How will the mystery unravel?

Who among them is the real innocent and who will be judged guilty?

Don’t miss the world premiere of “Royal Blood” — under the

helm of esteemed director Dominic Zapata — this June 19, weeknights at 8:50 p.m. on GMA and at 11:30 p.m. from Monday to Thursday and at 11 p.m. every Friday on GTV.

Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola Decline

P2M Offer to Stay with "Eat Bulaga"

Former "Eat Bulaga" hosts Jose Manalo and Wally Bayola have reportedly turned down an offer of P2 million each to remain as hosts on the long-running noontime show aired on GMA Network.

According to showbiz columnist Cristy Fermin, the duo received a call asking them not to join Tito Sotto, Vic Sotto, and Joey de Leon, offering them a prompt check of P2 million

However, Manalo and Bayola decided not to accept the two million pesos, and as a result, another group of hosts, known as the "Dabarkads," joined Tito, Vic, and Joey.

The resignations of several "Eat Bulaga" hosts, including Jose,

Wally, Paolo Ballesteros, Maine Mendoza, Ryzza Mae Dizon, and Ryan Agoncillo, were submitted after Tito, Vic, and Joey announced their departure from Television and Production Exponents Inc. (TAPE).

The resignation letters, dated May 31, 2023, were addressed to TAPE's Romeo Jalosjos Jr., and were shared on Pauleen Luna's Instagram Stories.

"Due to recent events, we will also bid farewell to TAPE Inc. starting today," the letter stated.

Cristy also revealed last month that Jose and Wally experienced delayed salary payments on the noontime show.

Photo source: Ellen Adarna/IG

Photo source: Wally Bayola via Instagram

Ultimate New Wave Evolution

(& closely related styles) part 38

Sa Úgoy ng Músika

Another set of albums by solo endeavourers this is! Interesting how most of these artists had managed to carve respective starry niches of their own despite the stellar status of the bands they were members of.

Trivia: Before forming their fairly successful bands, Cope, McCulloch, and Wylie were members of a very short-lived band called The Crucial Three. Falco, on the other hand, was a member of a couple of local club bands, but his career

practically started the moment he was launched as a solo artist. And Billy Idol? Who dares to hate Billy other than Glenn Gulia?

* Billy Idol (Gen. X) - Charmed Life (1990)

* Julian Cope (The Teardrop Explodes)

- Saint Julian (1987)

* Ian McCulloch (Echo & the Bunnymen) - Mysterio (1992)

* Pete Wylie (Mighty Wah!) - Sinful (1987)

* Falco - 3 (1985)

* Lloyd Cole (Lloyd Cole & the Commotions) - Love Story (1995)

* Midge Ure (Ultravox) - Answers to Nothing (1988)

* Natalie Merchant (10,000 Maniacs)

- Tigerlily (1995)

(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

Horoscope

Oh no, Aries! There’s a strong possibility of putting your foot in your mouth when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. Something you say could rub people the wrong way. Be mindful of what you say or you could cross a line or burn some bridges.

This isn’t a great week for friendships when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. Harsh words can really hit you where it hurts, especially when they come from your social circle. Set strong boundaries, Taurus, and remember your worth.

Your ambitions might get you in trouble when Mercury in your sign squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. Your smart mouth could cross some professional boundaries. One comment too many on what “should” be done can give you a bad reputation. Know your limits, Gemini.

Copyright @ horoscope.com

You might have to go your own way this week when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. You might need to leave the group to learn more about yourself. Solo adventures can lead to self-discovery even if other people don’t get it.

This is not a great time for friendship when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. You might feel like your friends are keeping you stagnant and not helping you grow as a person or build deeper intimacy. Consider looking for connection elsewhere.

It is not a great time for networking when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. It will be a struggle to keep your relationships professional, especially as lines get blurred. You might have a hard time getting yourself seen by the right people, Virgo, but keep pounding that pavement.

Your mind is too restless to deal with the mundane this week when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. Tasks like cleaning and organizing might bore you because you want to explore the big, wide world. Let your mind wander, but don’t stray off the path.

Whoa, Scorpio! You need to slow down when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. You might be moving too fast in your relationship. Big intimate talks could take the lightness out of your relationship, especially if it’s new. You don’t need to make everything so heavy!

It is not a great day when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces on Thursday. Conflict could threaten the structure of your happy home. You’ll need to find a way to reach common ground and learn to work with each other or you’ll have to make some changes, Sag.

Thursday is not a great day for productivity when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces. You’ll have a hard time getting your point across and saying what you mean thanks to this aspect. Sit down and listen if you want to get your life in order rather than talk in circles and get nowhere.

Thursday is not a great day for productivity when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in Pisces. You’ll have a hard time getting your point across and saying what you mean thanks to this aspect. Sit down and listen if you want to get your life in order rather than talk in circles and get nowhere.

Growing up can lead to plenty of growing pains this week when Mercury in Gemini squares Saturn in your sign on Thursday. Your family might keep you from growing up and developing your own agency. Don’t engage in arguments that you can’t win, Pisces. Keep your distance or you’ll get burned.

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