March2011 by Filipino Journal

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Volume 4, Number 3 â&#x20AC;˘ March 2011

Alberta Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Liver Awareness Program ("Mga Kuwento para sa Atay")

Tools for Success 2011 Trade Fair and Seminars

Page 13â&#x2013;ş

The recently conducted program was a big success attended by a huge crowd of multiculturals of Calgary. The project was organized by Dr. Maria Lourdes Celis (a family physician in Calgary) with Sherissa Celis, Dario Ontolan, Kimberley Barnes, Dr. Alvin Adriano and Dr. Georgina Valdecanas. The event was covered for television by "Pinoy Alberta TV" and "TV Pilipino" and "Alberta Filipino Journal". Venue was courtesy of Centre for Newcomers.

Exhibitors and Organizers: Cecilia and Pepito Magpayo, Pinoy Alberta TV, Jon Salvador (Licenced Immigration Consultant) From Catholic Social Services Settlement Counsellors (not in order) Margarita Valerga,Loly Maria Serrano, Aylin Menasaka,Yaneth Carolina Rodriguez, Carlos Gardella, Moses Samuel Bounyi, Anneke Lauwers and Remza Mujezinovic, Team Leader. Jun Angeles of Alberta Filipino Journal .

Melbourne - the "World's Best Sport City"

Jovit and Yeng Rock Edmonton

Flinders Street Station.

Jovit Baldovino

Come and Join us on: Preliminary Competition May 28, 2011 Coronation Night June 4, 2011 Polish Canadian Cultural Centre Application still open for interested candidates. Media Sponsors: Alberta Filipino Journal Pinoy Alberta TV on OMNI TV Pilipino on Shaw 89 Note: $1.00 for every ticket purchased will be donated to the Japan Relief Fund.

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Vhen Bautista ( The Prince of Iluko Songs) Concert by Jun Angeles

Vhen Bautista of Hawaii, composer, singer and producer delivered a memorable concert not only geared for Ilocanos but for any audience that appreciate

Vhen Baustista

music. Vhen along with her daughter Mikaela Vien Canto sung unforgettable songs that audience loved to hear. The concert which was held at Park View Community

Ikaela Vien Canto Bautista

495 Vivian Ama

League on Saturday March 19, 2011 was packed with spectators. Aweng Records Music Production through the courtesy of Manny and Jingle Calora staged this event in

Edmonton. With such a cold spell in March the Filipino community supported Filipino talents that visited Edmonton. A local group band named 'Exile Band' did the

opening of the concert. Vocalist Vivian Ama wowed the audience in her maiden debut at this concert.

540 Jingle and Manny Calora with Mikaela

494 Exile Band

New Federal Regulations Affecting Temporary Foreign Workers: The Human Resources Impact By R. Reis Pagtakhan, LL.B., B.A. (Hons.)

On April 1, 2011, new regulations will become law that will affect the employment of temporary foreign workers in Canada (workers in Canada who are neither Canadian citizens nor permanent residents). These regulations, made to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act Regulations, will apply nationally. Some of the more significant changes are as follows: 1. Most foreign workers will now be limited to four years of work in Canada. In order to “reset” the clock back to zero, a foreign worker must wait four years before reapplying. Obviously, this time cap will have a great impact on companies that hire foreign workers. 2. Certain foreign workers, including those working pursuant to international agreements such as NAFTA and those who would “create or maintain significant social, cultural, or economic benefits”, are exempt from the four year cap. 3. Employers hiring foreign workers will have to prove their job offers are genuine. One of the many factors that will be considered is whether the employer and any recruiter acting on the employer’s behalf complied with certain federal and provincial laws. This will require employers to take great care to ensure that the work of their recruiters is adequately monitored.

At a minimum, contracts with recruiters should include conditions designed to ensure compliance with federal and provincial laws. 4. Employers will be required to pay foreign workers and provide working conditions to that foreign worker which are substantially the same as what was in the company’s offer of employment. An employer that fails to do so without justification may be barred from hiring temporary foreign workers for two years. Because of this, all correspondence between a foreign worker and employer should be carefully scrutinized to ensure that there is no ambiguity in what is actually in the offer of employment. 5. Names of employers who are barred from using the temporary foreign worker program because of a violation of the regulations will be published. This “blacklist” will be available on Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s website for the public to view. 6. Because of the national impact of these regulations, companies with offices and operations in various jurisdictions could be “blacklisted” as a result of the conduct of other offices. As a result, company wide procedures when dealing with foreign workers should be clearly developed to ensure compliance. 7. If an employer finds itself on the “blacklist”, the company bar on hiring foreign workers will affect

all levels of applications. As a result, a failure to comply with the conditions regarding the hiring of a lower skilled foreign worker can result in a company being barred from hiring a foreign national to become president or CEO of the company.

The Impact on Mergers and Acquisitions While changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act Regulations for temporary foreign workers have an obvious human resources impact, an underreported impact is on

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potential corporate mergers and acquisitions. If a company that is the focus of a merger or acquisition (the “target company”) relies on multiple foreign workers or even a small number of key foreign workers for its operations, merger and acquisition professionals will want to ensure compliance with the new regulations. Purchasers of businesses will also want to ensure that the target company’s key human resource will be able to continue to work for the newly owned company after a merger or acquisition transaction is completed. In addition, purchasers of businesses – especially nonCanadian purchasers - may want to ensure that the target company is not on the immigration “blacklist” so

that they can move their personnel in Canada to work with the newly acquired company. Due diligence in these types of transactions may require the review of all contracts with foreign workers, work permits, labour market opinions, agreements with recruiters and, in Manitoba, all applications filed under the Worker Recruitment and Protection Act. The failure to deal with these issues could result in difficulties in concluding these types of transactions. In addition, in financing transactions, it is possible that lenders could be less willing to lend if they determine that key employees who are responsible for the success of the company would be legally prohibited from staying with the company going forward.

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Prime Minister Stephen Harper highlights success of government work-sharing program Announces plans for tax credit for children’s artistic activities as part of the Next Phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan participation in the Government’s Work-Sharing Program, a key component of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. The Prime Minister was joined by Diane Finley, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “When the global recession hit, our Government took decisive action – including the WorkSharing Program – to help support workers and their communities,” said the Prime Minister. “Our efforts have been remarkably successful and moving forward, we will continue to focus on what matters most to Canadian workers, their families and their BRAMPTON, ONTARIO – communities. This means keeping Prime Minister Stephen Harper today visited T.A. Brannon Steel Ltd., where he highlighted the company’s highly successful

taxes low, supporting job creation, and investing in innovation, research, and training.” Work-Sharing is designed to help companies facing a temporary slowdown in business avoid layoffs by offering Employment Insurance to workers who are willing to work a reduced workweek. T.A. Brannon Steel joined the Work-Sharing Program in 2009. As a result of its participation, the company was able to avoid the layoff of approximately 35 employees. It is one of many companies across the country that has turned the corner and is now benefitting from national and

OTTAWA – Liberal MP Anita Neville today introduced a private member’s bill in the House of Commons that would eliminate income tax payable on the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) death benefit. Bill C-641 was seconded by Rodger Cuzner, MP for Cape Breton-Canso. “I have heard from many constituents of the heavy burden that funeral costs place on families, and of their surprise when they find out that they must pay income tax on the $2,500 CPP death benefit,” said Ms. Neville. “In some cases, receiving this payment can have disastrous financial implications – not only reducing the amount available to help with funeral costs, but pushing a beneficiary’s income into a higher tax bracket or reducing eligibility for social assistance or the GST/HST credit.” Bill C-641 would amend the Income Tax Act so that CPP death benefits are excluded as income when computing income tax. “Making the CPP death benefit tax-free is the right thing to do – and the fair thing to do – to support families as they mourn the loss of a loved one, and ensure that there is no financial penalty for receiving this payment,” added Ms. Neville.

www.FilipinoBrideAndGroom.com Published Annually

Ronald Cantiveros

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Rod Escobar Cantiveros

Contributing Writers:

Publisher/Chief Operating Officer VP-Business Development Managing Editor Associate Editor

Sales & Advertising

Jose (Jun) Angeles, Jr.

Associate Publisher - Alberta 246 Lindsay St. Edmonton, AB T64 2T2 email: angeles.associates@gmail.com

Jose “Pepito” Magpayo Associate Editor/Marketing (403) 264-5605

Rosalinda Linsangan Natividad-Cantiveros

Founder, Publisher & Editor-in-Chief- Filipino Journal 1987-2008

international demands. The Prime Minister also previewed the Next Phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan in a speech to the joint Brampton-Mississauga Board of Trade, where the Prime Minister announced plans for a new tax credit for children’s artistic activities. “The family is the basic building block of Canadian society,” said the Prime Minister. “That’s why the Next Phase of Canada’s Economic Action Plan will contain new support for Canadian families and communities, including a tax credit for children’s participation in artistic activities.”

MP Neville introduces Bill C-641 to remove tax on CPP death benefit

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A Division of Bowes Publishers Ltd. Leduc, AB Printer Noli Granado

Lucille Nolasco Dr. Eusebio Koh Pastor Junie Josue Johnny Cantiveros Carl Benito Gem M. Anis Ruwiz Mercado Fran Avila-Anthony Lito Cleofe

RG (Bob) Gabuna Reis Pagtakhan Ramon Toralba Melanie Angeles Tony Surtida Perry Diaz Danilo Donor Inna

We welcome submissions-news, articles, pictures and letters. Letters must include signature and phone number; names can be withheld upon request. We reserve the right to edit for length and content. All submissions, unless arrangements are made, become the property of the publisher. Reproduction of contents, in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited without the expressed written permission from the Publisher/ Editor. Opinions by columnist, writers, and readers do not in any way reflect those of the Publisher/Editor.

Published by Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Rd., Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3 •Tel: 888-489-8894 Fax: (204) 489-1575 •info@filipinojournal.com •www.filipinojournal.com Publications Mail Agreement No. 40032612 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Molave Publishing Company, Inc. 46 Pincarrow Road, Winnipeg, MB R3Y 1E3

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Alberta

Tools for Success 2011 Trade Fair and Seminars

by Jun Angeles

288..The Crowd

Trade Fair and Seminars geared to help OFW (Overseas Foreign Workers) to enlighten, to educate and to help them make the most of their stay in Canada was organized by Catholic Social Services in Red Deer last Monday March 14, 2011. The Blacknight Inn in Red Deer was the venue of this trade fair and seminar. The event was well attended by foreign workers who were given

the opportunity to counteract with different agencies. Government of Alberta Employment and Immigration, Canada Immigration and Citizenship, The RCMP, IQAS. The Pinoy Alberta TV and the Alberta Filipino Journal and different agencies put up booths to display their services, pamphlets and different give aways. Overall an excellent informative sessions for OWFâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.

L-R Cecilia Magpayo (Pinoy Alberta TV), Kenneth Juanito, Shirley Camagong, Elisa Quivedo and Fredirick Agorilla

Mercan has successfully brought over 25,000 individuals to Canada since 1989 and assisted them in obtaining permanent residency. Mercan Capitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s founder and President, Mr. Jerome Morgan, is an accredited member of the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultants (CSIC member no.: M041555) and Ms. Valerie Marcas, employee of Mercan Capital since 1999, is a member of the Quebec Bar, Canadian Bar Association, and the Quebec Immigration Lawyers Association.

IMMIGRATION SERVICES

Permanent Immigration Processing 1. PNP (each province varies) - Skilled Workers - Semi SkilledWorkers - Family - International Graduates - Strategic Recruitment 2. In Canada Experience 3. Federal Skilled Workers Priority List EMPLOYERS AND TEMPORARY WORKERS SERVICES

A. Work Permit Processing/Renewals B. Labor Market Opinion Processing C. Visa Processing/Renewals

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The Filipino Journal is published twice a month in Winnipeg. We are committed to help you attain your marketing, sales, and company objectives. Your company advertisement in our newspaper will surely appeal to 50,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers. Advertisers can expect to get their message to its readers and consumers in this area. People read the Filipino Journal because of its very informative news, entertainment sections and useful everyday information on living in Canada.

Filipino Journal is the no.1 Filipino-Canadian Newspaper in Alberta that published 10,000 copies once a month. We are the largest and fastest growing Filipino-Canadian newspaper, with 70,000 Filipino’s and Canadian readers. With a unique message that will attract readers and consumers. Advertising your products and services is one of the most strategic business decisions you can make.

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Filipino Journal SOCIAL MEDIA SERVICES

Social media marketing brings your company to the fastest growing networking hubs on the Internet. We can help you reach out to, collaborate with, and market effectively to targeted audiences in their on-line haunts. Social Media Marketing services include: Social Media Strategy - finding your potential clients on-line and figuring out how to reach them. Corporate Facebook Pages â&#x20AC;&#x201C; building and managing effective Facebook presences; Twitter Services â&#x20AC;&#x201C; using Twitter the right way. Our social media marketing services can: * * * * * * *

increase brand awareness; create buzz; promote and advertise products and services; generate sales; establish expertise; drive more web site traffic showcase and demonstrate product effectiveness.

Facebook, MySpace, Flickr and YouTube get millions of visitors daily. Tap into this vital social phenomenon and reach a vast new audience, contact the Filipino Journal today to find out how.

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Proposed Changes to the Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) Program

Immigration News by Jon

Salvador, BSc.

Certified Canadian Immigration Consultant

(About the writer: Jon Salvador is a licensed immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the Canadian Society of Immigration Consultant (CSIC). He has more than 20 years of management and business experience in Canada. Prior to establishing his immigration consulting company, he worked for a U.S. based computer company and then at TELUS, the 2nd largest telecom company in Canada in various management positions. He is originally from Manila, Philippines and graduated from DLSU (De La Salle University) in Manila with a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. He also studied Business Management at the University of Alberta in Edmonton. If you would like to request articles on other immigration topics for future “Alberta Filipino Journal” publications, you can contact Jon at (403) 241-6276 or at jon@nuerainc.ca or the publisher of this newspaper.

itizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is planning to make changes to the existing FSW selection criteria points that were established in 2002. A recent evaluation of the FSW program showed that though the existing selection criteria points based on: education, language proficiency, work experience, age, whether the applicant has arranged employment in Canada and the applicant’s overall adaptability (eg. spouse’s education, previous work or study in Canada, direct relatives in Canada) is working well ... there is room for improvement. The changes will not alter the existing six (6) selection criteria but it will change the number of points assigned to the criteria and the way points are assessed or allocated. Listed below are the proposed changes to the existing FSW program: 1. Greater emphasis on language proficiency – CIC proposes to increase maximum points for the first official language proficiency from 16 to 20 points and at the same time introduce minimum language requirements based on occupation. CIC will consult on increasing

the maximum points awarded for proficiency in language and on establishing minimum language requirements depending on the immigrant’s skill level. For example, managers or professionals would have different requirement from trades people. Rationale: A 2005 Statistics Canada study found that the employment rates of immigrants increased relative to their English or French language proficiency. It also found that language proficiency had the biggest positive impact on the immigrant’s ability to work in high-skilled professions. Language proficiency is an important factor in an immigrant’s success. 2. More points based on age – CIC proposes to increase maximum points for age from 10 to 12 points. Maximum points will be awarded until age 35, with a gradual decrease of points until age 49. No age points will be awarded after age 50. Rationale: Research shows that immigrants who arrive between the ages of 20 to 30 have been found to have the greatest positive economic impact on the receiving country. In contrast, immigrants aged 45 years and older experience unemployment rates almost double those aged 25 to 34 years old. Younger immigrants are more likely to adapt more quickly to their new environment and provide greater positive contribution to the economy. Approximately 27% of FSW immigrants who arrived between 2000 and 2006 were over the age of 40 and Canada wants to attract younger immigrants.

reflects the Canadian educational system and fails to take into account the differences with respect to the immigrant’s home country school system.

and definitions to enforce tighter front-end assessment of the potential employer and the job being offered. Provisions are also proposed to increase the Visa Officer’s authority to assess the validity/genuineness of the job offer and the applicant’s qualifications and ability to perform the job being offered. The changes could also require employers to sign a document confirming their commitment to hire the immigrant and restrictions or penalties to the employers, if they do not fulfill their written commitment. Rationale: Arranged Employment Offer awards the applicant a total of 15 points in the FSW selection criteria (ie. 10 points for arranged employment and 5 points for adaptability) and waives the requirement for settlement funds. Due to these advantages, this selection criterion has been susceptible to exploitation of persons attempting to immigrate with a fraudulent job offer. Employers sometimes provide bogus job offers for a fee to recruiting agencies that in turn victimizes unknowing would be immigrants.

4. Reduce points based on work experience – CIC proposes to decrease the maximum points awarded to work experience from 21 to 15 points. It is also proposed to increase the range of years within which points are allotted. This means that applicants need to have more work experience in order to get awarded maximum points. The points previously allotted to work experience will be reallocated to age and language proficiency selection criteria. Rationale: Research shows that the FSW program places more weight on foreign work experience compared to other countries. Study shows that foreign work experience is a weak predictor of success in the Canadian labour market. Currently, an applicant is awarded 21 points for only 4 years of work experience. The overall weight of foreign work experience in the selection criteria will be reduced to more accurately Summary: Current vs. Proposed reflect its true value. Federal Skilled Worker Points Grid 5. More rigorous rules on Arranged Current Proposed Employment Offers – CIC proposes Selection System System more strict regulatory provisions Criteria

3. Reduce years of education required – CIC proposes to reduce the number of years of education required to claim points for trade or non-university post secondary education. This change will improve eligibility of skilled trade persons, technicians and apprentices who have valid post secondary education but not the required number of years of study. Rationale: Canada is facing shortages of workers in certain skilled trades. Immigrants can help address this need. Skilled trades people currently make up less than 3% of all FSW applicants. CIC wants to help qualified trades people immigrate to Canada. Education points are now based on the university degree or trade diploma (ie. post secondary education) and the number of years of education completed. The required years of education is intended to help ensure the quality of the credential. However, years of education required

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Education Language Work Experience Age Arranged Employment Adaptability TOTAL:

25 24 21 10 10

25 28 15 2 10

10 100

The above listed changes are just proposals at this time. CIC is meeting with various groups to solicit comments and input with regards to the proposed changes. Results of the consultations and final changes to the FSW program will be announced in the future. In the meantime, I encourage all eligible FSW applicants to submit their applications as soon as possible before any proposed changes take effect. Good luck to you all. Legal Disclaimer: This news article is designed for general information only. The information presented in this article should not be construed to be formal legal advice or the formation of a consultant/client relationship. Each individual situation is different and people should seek proper advice on their specific cases with a licensed immigration consultant of their choice.

March 2011

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Harper couples visit Maria Aragon

throng of children on the corner curiously stared as the convoy of black vehicles pulled into a narrow street in west-central Winnipeg. The VIP passengers then stepped out from of the vehicles and proceeded to the modest home of YouTube singing sensation 10-year-old Maria Aragon. It turned out that it was the Prime Minister himself Stephen Harper and his wife Laureen who came to visit Aragon’s home Tuesday, where, for the

start they were politely asked to take off their shoes once inside the host’s home. Aragon who was dressed in a silver skirt and white jacket, performed in front of Harper and company by singing Lady Gaga’s “Born this Way.” The song which pertains to being proud of who you are, made Aragon an Internet sensation and even earned for her an invitation from Lady Gaga herself to her Toronto show last month. The prime minister congratulated Aragon on her

performance while Laureen Harper seemed impressed by the petite girl’s voice. Afterwards Harper asked Aragon for any Beatles piece for which the girl promptly sang the first verse of John Lennon’s “Imagine.” Harper took over the next verse which he has to sing in falsetto as Aragon initially put the song in its highest tune. Harper has apparently abandoned his former disdain for celebrities. In 2007 he refused to meet U2 frontman Bono to discuss Third World aid.

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Wency Calderon in concert by Tony Surtida

March 23, 2011 – Edmonton, Alberta: Our very own WENCY CALDERON takes center stage on April 30 at the Gateway Alliance Church auditorium. Dubbed “I Believe”, the concert showcases Wency’s versatility as a performer singing a variety of styles and genres from contemporary to old standards, from R & B to pop, Latin and OPM. She’ll dance and warm your hearts with her gracious style and vocal prowess. This very young 15-year old artist is originally from Tondo, Manila. She and her family relocated to Edmonton in 2009 where she thought she’d quietly endure her teen years in relative anonymity. Was she ever wrong! Wency broke into the limelight in March 2010 when she took home the title Pinoy Singing Sensation – Junior Edition. Since then her life has taken a dramatic transformation. Almost overnight her celebrity went from obscurity to being one of the most recognizable faces in our community. Wency travels to Manila in July to record an

album with world-renowned composer and prolific hit maker VEHNEE SATURNO. The whole process will stretch for about 1½ months, at the end of which her songs hit the airwaves. When asked how she felt about the project Wency replied “I’m very excited but I’m also scared. “I’ve never done anything like this before so I don’t know what to expect. But I want to do this. I know I can do this”. “I Believe” aims to raise funds to finance Wency’s recording project. Tickets are $15 each. All proceeds directly benefit Wency’s bid to be the first-ever Edmonton based Filipino recording artist. Let’s help Wency realize her dream. Tickets are available at the following outlers: Atin Tindahan (West-end), Mac Cafe & Juice Bar (West-end), Maple Sugar Shack (West Edmonton Mall). Sunfreight Cargo (Downtown), Dina's Variety Store (Millwoods) Bet Bustos @ 780.710.6853 or Tony @ 780.710.4895

Young Filipina singer makes waves in Canada The winner of “PNT Idol,” a Filipino-CanadianMetro Vancouver area singing competition, has just released her debut album under Ecclesiastes Entertainment. Ethel Rose Amistad’s first song collection dubbed, “Ethel Rose Amistad, A life Story,” contains compositions written by a team of songwriters from the UK, USA, and Asia and is also slated for release in the USA and the Philippines. Amistad who is currently conducting tours of malls and schools around Canada to promote her album is the first and only recording artist of Ecclesiastes Entertainment. She considered it a dream come true for her to have her own album and is doubly happy that it will be released not only in Canada but also in the USA. Amistad added that she is eager to visit the Philippines and hopes to perform in front of Filipinos with her idols Sarah Geronimo and international singing sensation Charice.

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Carl Benito, MLA Edmonton Mill Woods

As the MLA for Edmonton MillWoods , I am always available to assist constituents. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the new contract with the RCMP, the new mine financial security program, Alberta Arts Days, the mypcmla iPhone application, or any other matter, I can be reached in my constituency office at #218; 4128A-97 Street, or in my Legislature office at 780-422-9299, through email at edmonton.millwoods@assembly. ab.ca., and please subscribe to my e‑newsletter at http://Benito.mypcmla. ca/. Also on facebook, twitter @ MLACarlBenito and YouTube http:// www.youtube.com/benitomla

Alberta

Stelmach that a new RCMP contract is in place during 2011, well before the current contract expires in 2012. Under the agreement, the current cost sharing between Alberta, at 70 per cent, and Canada, at 30 per cent, is maintained, and the Government of Canada has approval to enter into arrangements with Alberta municipalities for the RCMP to provide local policing. In addition, the province will set the objectives, priorities and goals of the RCMP in Alberta, and added emphasis will be given to information sharing, planning, and reporting. Forty-three municipalities with populations over 5,000 will develop contracts directly with the RCMP for local policing. Further, the RCMP provides policing to all municipal districts and counties as well as Metis settlements regardless of population, unless other policing arrangements have been made. The Alberta government understands that Albertans value their safety and security and is therefore working to strengthen local communities. The recent developments in the new RCMP contract contribute significantly to the achievement of that goal. As we move forward, our government will continue to focus on Albertans priorities by fostering economic growth, strengthening our health and education systems, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring a clean and healthy environment.

Alberta endorses contract for RCMP as provincial police service Province Alberta has taken a significant step towards a new contract to advances land maintain the RCMP as Alberta’s provincial police service, with reclamation endorsement of an agreement that programs would keep the RCMP in Alberta to March 31, 2032. The federal government will now review the endorsed agreement and their approval is anticipated later this spring. This would fulfill a commitment by Premier Ed

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

To improve clarity, security, and environmental performance within the oil sands and coal mining sectors, the Alberta government is moving forward with a number of enhanced reclamation initiatives.

Currently, operators post financial security for reclamation each year based on the following year’s estimated land disturbance. The security is returned when the land is reclaimed. The new mine financial security program takes an asset-to-liability approach which recognizes the resource value whether bitumen or coal - as an asset in terms of cash flow. For new mines, a base security will be collected early in the mine’s life, when the risk of mine closure or abandonment is at a minimum. Full financial security will be collected later in the mine’s life, but before assets are completely reduced. For mines already operating, existing security held by the province will be held as base security. Over the long term, the total security amount collected will be considerably higher than with the previous approach. All oil sands mines, including those previously providing security at older rates, will now provide security based on full reclamation costs. Oil sands processing plants located on mine sites are also now covered under the program. Government is also enhancing reclamation reporting by boosting the number of milestones used to track reclamation. Previously, only three reporting milestones were used - disturbed, reclaimed, and certified. Recognizing that reclamation occurs over long periods of time and goes through many stages, eight milestones will now be used by both the province and industry. This will result in greater transparency and consistency of reporting. Reclamation data will soon be made more accessible to Albertans with the creation of an interactive, map-based website that will bring together provincial monitoring, reclamation, and approvals data for the oil sands region. This information hub is expected to be online this summer.

The province’s reclamation certificate program is also being updated. These modifications will provide industry with greater clarity on the application process and provincial expectations on reclamation performance, objectives, and outcomes. Updates began in 2010 and should be complete by 2012. For more information on land reclamation in Alberta, please visit: http://environment.alberta.ca/.

Funding available for Alberta Arts Days Celebration Sites

To help grow Alberta Arts Days and encourage even broader participation across the province, the Government of Alberta is making funding available for the creation of Alberta Arts Days 2011 Designated Celebration Sites. In 2010, thousands of Albertans discovered, experienced and celebrated our unique culture, heritage, artistic diversity and provincial pride through 681 events in 91 communities. Among these were five Feature Celebration Sites, which received support from the Government of Alberta. This year; using the same level of funding as in 2010 that supported five sites; the Government of Alberta is committed to supporting a minimum of 60 Designated Celebration Sites. Two levels of funding are available: up to $20,000 to be designated a Feature Celebration Site; and up to $5,000 to be designated a Host Celebration Site. Cultural organizations, nonprofit groups, libraries, venues and facilities, schools, community groups, and event planners are all encouraged to apply. Consideration will be given to those who partner with others in their community

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March 2011 to present Alberta Arts Days programming. This year, Alberta Arts Days will run from Sept. 30 to Oct. 2, 2011. This celebration helps achieve the goals of the Government of Alberta’s cultural policy, The Spirit of Alberta, and is part of National Culture Days. All Albertans are encouraged to participate by attending some of the hundreds of free, family-friendly events, or hosting one of their own. Interested applicants should visit AlbertaArtsDays.ca and download the Request for Submission package. The application deadline is April 20, 2011.

Stay in touch with your MLA using the mypcmla iPhone application

On March 17, Alberta’s Government Caucus launched the mypcmla iPhone application, which is now available for free on the iTunes store. One of the first of its kind in Canada, the mypcmla application provides Albertans with numerous ways to connect with Government MLAs, including access to the latest news and information, photos from the constituency, YouTube videos, and Twitter updates. You can download the application by following the link on any mypcmla.ca website or by visiting the iTunes store and searching “mypcmla.” In addition, Alberta’s Government Caucus has also launched a mobile-ready government caucus website at http://www.mypcmla.ca/m, which allows other handheld devices, including BlackBerry smartphones and Android-enabled phones, mobile access to the mypcmla site that is optimized for a mobile screen.

March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Filipino Journal

Alberta

City continues to provide easier access to information Steps You can take to protect your property from flooding Today The City launched a new notices regarding development mapping solution that highlights all active Land Use, Outline Plans and Road Closures (LOC) applications online. On this map, citizens and the development industry will be able to locate LOC information by community, ward or quadrant that may be of interest to them or a project. This new map can be viewed at calgary.ca/applicationmap In addition to this interactive map, a map that showcases all public

permits, corresponding to the ads in the paper, is also available online at calgary.ca/publicnotices. The City of Calgary is working towards making all applicable permitting, approval and licensing services available online. These services will make it easier for customers to conduct business with The City. The interactive map is just one of the many services that will be made available for our customers.

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Due to this week’s warm weather forecast, there is an increased risk of overland flooding due to rapidsnowmelt. There are a number of things you can do to prepare your home in advance. • Make sure your downspouts are clear of snow/debris and extend at least 5 feet away from your home

• Remove snow from around your foundation • Ensure that your sump pump and backflow prevention devices are in place and functioning • Call 3-1-1 if you see a plugged storm drain or significant waterpooling in your neighbourhood • Call 9-1-1 if you are experiencing rapid flooding in your basement

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March 2011

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March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

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March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Jovit and Yeng Rock Edmonton by Jun Angeles

t was electrifying when Jovit Baldovino first trotted the staged with energy and power amidst the lights and resounding noise at the Fantasyland Hotel ballroom, the venue of "Let's Rock Canada", a Friday concert on March 18, 2011 a "tour de force" for Jovit Baldovino, last year inner of "'Pilipinas Got Talent'. Jovit came to stage in a black leather jacket with a purple

Jovit Baldovino

shirt underneath and a faded jeans combined with a marooned rubber shoes with a messed hair just looking a bit of a rocker despite of just being a seventeen year old teen. Coming from humble beginning, Jovit was born and raised in Marilag, Rosario Batangas. Larry Baldovino, father of Jovit who sings and plays guitar, tagged along to see Canada and the group first landed in Edmonton,

Alberta. They were ecstatic to see the snow which was in abundance still in March. Jovit's gifted talent to sing was noticed when he just four year old. Last year at the age of sixteen Jovit auditioned to Pilipinas Got Talent competing against more than 400 contestants from neighboring provinces of Laguna and Quezon. Out of the hundreds hopefuls, Jovit

Ate Gay and A Facebook friend from Grande Prairie

was the only one chosen in that region. The rest was history. On stage, Jovit belted songs We will Rock It, We are the Champions, Too Much Love Will Kill You, I'll Do Anything for Love, his version of Paano Ba ang Magisa, and many more but finally Faithfully as his finale song, the song that brought fame and success in his soaring career. His voice is pure and

Yeng Constantino Photos by Jun Angeles | Filipino Journal

Jerry Valdez Telan, Road Manager-ABS-CBN

this photo is the technical staff production the girl in the middle Producers her name is Arlyn Dy Co production manager of the tour.

Marquicias Photography

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unassuming and the songs just came out naturally with ease. Yeng Constantino on the other hand, winner of 'Grand Star Dreamer " of Pinoy Dream Academy, not only sings but composes her songs. This young star has engraved her niche with contemporary songs reflecting love songs in rock. She sung Ako ang Bida Sayo, Himala, Magdadrive Ako , In Love Ako and many more. On her third album Yeng wrote all of her songs.Yeng just like Jovit came from humble beginning, a striving young band member growing up in Montalban until she competed in Pinoy Dream Academy and emerged as a winner. Her winning song Hawak Kamay was written when she wa fourteen. On stage, with a khaki pants combined with a fatigue blazer with black shirt, Yeng portrays such a tomboyish look but admitted that she is really a full grown young lady. Let's Rock Canada , with it first stop Edmonton included Ate Gay, a comedian that will certainly put a smile and laughter to any audience (mostly adult). A veteran comedy bar , Ate Gay impersonate Nora Aunor but progress to a more versatile stand up comedian using her gayness and preference for audience participation. Ate Gay because of her prowess in making the audience laugh has been invited by the Palabok House to put her solo appearance on a dinner and show on Friday April 1, 2011. As to this date the place is already sold out. A night to rock and remember. Jovit, Yeng and Ate Gay will surely be back to entertain and melt up the freezing Pinoys in Edmonton.

March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Top Rank to sue Golden Boy on Donaire contract

he worth of Nonito Donaire, Jr. as a boxer has obviously increased after his phenomenal second-round knockout of former champion Fernando Montiel of Mexico last month.

Proof of this is that the FilAm boxer is at the center of the tug-of-war between Golden Boy Promotions and Top Rank. Apparently, the World Boxing Council and World Boxing

Organization 118-pound titlist has already signed an exclusive multi-year contract with Oscar De La Hoya’s GBP thus leaving Bob Arum’s Top Rank in the cold. Arum however threatened legal action against all those involved in the transaction, saying Top Rank has a valid contract with Donaire. De La Hoya’s camp think otherwise saying the three-year contract with Arum is no longer binding as Arum failed to meet a stipulation on the contract that says the Fil-Am needs to fight three times a year. Records show that Donaire has fought only seven times since 2008. Donaire said he is honored to be joining many great fighters and champions on the Golden Boy Promotions team. For his part, De La Hoya welcomed Donaire to his stable and told media that GBP will make sure that he gets the chance to defend his world titles and stays as active as possible in the ring.

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Alberta

Filipina Rock and Blues Singer Making A Mark in Alberta

Diminutive Aubrie Aldaca, a 21 year old Commerce student from Grant McEwan University is making waves in Alberta singing with the band ""The Normals". New in Canada the daughter of Miriam and Andrew Aldaca who just came four years ago from Abra, Philippines can be seen singing in the casinos in Edmonton, Ft. McMurray, Medicine Hat, |Grande Prairie

and other venues in town. Aubrie was discovered by her singing instructor, Dino Dominelle, an international artist and owner of the band.This Ilocana beauty loves singing since she was four year old and was encouraged by her parents to continue her singing in Edmonton. Watch for these young and talented lass who will rock you to dance and sway with her prowess in singing.

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March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Horoscope March is the month of getting in touch with your emotions. Go with it, even if you’re totally busy and just don’t have time for ‘feelings,’ right now. ‘Selfish’ is almost never the best approach to take to a problem. Enjoy every single of the day!

You need patience this month. You have been barging forward with your emotions and it may be upsetting everyone around you. Calm down and you’ll find that everything works out much more easily. You’ve blown off steam already so you should be able to settle down this month.

So many sudden announcements and fickle people around you make your head spin. Stay steady and do not lose sight of your goals. Emotionally many people are in a whirl but you could be the one who sets everyone straight.

You will get results and returns after a difficult month during February. You should work hard and make up lost ground now. Financial gains due to work matters would go up after the 23rd March 2011. A positive month for work.

This is your time to shine, especially professionally. Focus on your important aspirations and ambitions to make significant impact on the world around you. Your personal life and relationships may be put on the back burner for now as you aim for accomplishment and achievement

Y our self-confidence is running out of control. It’s good to be positive and optimistic but dangerous is you never listen to others or think that you are always in the right. Pride can lead to a fall so it is important now that you learn to become a little more modest.

During this time period you are planning big things for the future. You become excited about an idea that promises much greener pastures for you. Your enthusiasm and optimism are so strong that it is difficult for you to realistically evaluate the situation.

There are many unexpected changes in this area for you and you could be trying very different ways to increase your income. Your mate or partner will be supporting you in your new endeavors. Meanwhile you will have to make some personal adjustments and use some reorientation.

Things get a little easier now and you can relax. It’s been a hectic time as you’ve tried to accomplish a great deal. But you really can start to ease off now. It would be better to combine your gains.

Keep it simple because you’ll never please everyone. You’ve been weighing up the issues and no sooner do you appease one person than it upsets another. You have to do what is for the common good.

Your home place seems to be a central point for you this month. There are some unexpected circumstances surrounding this area that are giving you much tension. There seems to be some differences at your home base that need to be worked out in a constructive manner in order to reconcile any differences of opinion that you may have there.

This month you will put some emphasis in the way you care for your appearance especially at your work place as you like to present yourself in the best light at every angle. You are changing many things that you have done in the past and are trying a different approach especially related to your personal relationships.

PAHALANG 1 Sinsin 5 Taba ng alimango 10 Panimplang butil 11 Nilala na higaan 12 Pesteng kulisap 15 Uri ng saging 16 Salitang pananong 17 Latin: daglat 19 My ____ 20 Pang-ukol 21 Uri ng gulay 23 Namaos

PABABA 25 Pinigil 26 Simbolo ng barium 28 Dating numero sa buwis 30 Tit for _____ 31 ____ Pablo City 32 Jai _____ 34 Kurtina 36 Maninipsip 38 Sakdal 39 Alsa 40 Bahay - Ampunan

1 Kalag 2 Nara 3 Makinis 4 Apelyidong Tsino 5 Simbolo ng Alabamine 6 ____ Vegas 7 Kinanta 8 Sira 9 Itulad 13 Kuwentong-bayan 14 Bandila 18 Taludtod

21 ____ de sal 22 ____ King Cole 23 Tauhan sa binyagan 24 Ilista 26 Libag 27 Masamang amoy 29 Tanong sa pumipili 31 Pagtitika 33 Baluga 35 Sasakyang panlupa 37 Saka

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

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March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Travel continued from page 21

We drove through one of the most recognizable landmarks of Melbourne, the Flinders Street Station, the central railway station at the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets where the "meeting under the clocks" has become a Melbourne cultural institution. A must-see is the Fitzroy Gardens, the 19th century landscaped gardens laid out across 64 acres with large formal garden beds, walking paths, a superb collection of trees, a conservatory fresh with blooms, and the famous cottage that was once the home of Capt. James Cook. A permanent and lasting memory to the ANZAC (Australia

New Zealand Army Corps) spirit, the men and women of Victoria who served and those who died in the Great War, is the Shrine of Remembrance, designed with a ray of sunlight falling on the Stone of Remembrance to illuminate the word LOVE at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, the exact moment of the armistice ending World War I. Melbourne has two worldclass observation decks, the Melbourne 360 degree Observation Deck (opened in 1994) on the 55th floor of the landmark Rialto Tower and the Eureka Skydeck 88 sitting atop the Eureka Tower, the world's tallest residential tower, opened in 2007. Both offer awe-inspiring view of the entire city and

suburbs. Eureka Skydeck's lifts are the fastest in the southern hemisphere traveling at more than 9 meters per second. Ranked in 2009 as the "World's Best Sport City", the host city for the 1956 Olympic Games

UP Chief Geologist claims Bataan Nuclear Power Plant better built than Fukushima plant

The Director of the University of the Philippines National Institute of Geological Sciences said the Bataan Nuclear Power Plant uses pressurized water reactors, while the Fukushima Daiichi plant in Japan is very old and uses boiling water reactor technology. Dr. Carlo Arcilla further claimed that the Bataan Plant is much safer than the Fukushima Plant that suffered explosions after a magnitude-8.9 earthquake and a tsunami hit the country last week. On the reported existence of a fault at the site of the Bataan Plant,

Arcilla said the powerplant does not directly stand on an active fault but it could be near one. He also noted that the plant is protected against tsunami as it is located 18 meters above sea level. The controversial Bataan Plant was built from 1976 to 1984 by the Marcos Administration amidst charges of corruption involving is construction. It was paid off by the government in 2007. The $2.3 billion plant is capable of producing 621 megawatts of electricity if used.

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along with 2006 Commonwealth Games, Melbourne is home to three major annual international sporting events: the Australian Tennis Open (one of the 4 Grand Slams tennis tournaments in the world), the Melbourne Cup (horse racing), and the Australian Grand

Alberta

Prix (Formula One). Intensely popular are the "Aussie Rules" (AFL) Football and cricket. Again, welcome to Melbourne. Remember, it's one of the top three world's most livable cities!

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March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Michelle Tria and Melanie Angeles Celebrate Birthdays

Jaymes 7th Birthday

Families and friends of Michelle Tria and Melanie Angeles were treated to a sumptuous dinner at the Kitchen Buffet Marriot Hotel and Casino Resort Wednesday March 2nd, 2011. Both celebrants were born in March.

Jaymes son of Irene and Armin Naca celebrated his birthday at their residence on Saturday March 3, 2011.

L-R Michelle Tria and Melanie Angeles surrounded by their nieces.

Jaymes in purple shirt surrounded by his two brothers Justin and Jonathan with cousin Aylah Angeles and some friends.

Jehna's 18th bday The 18th Debut of Jehna Charnelle Oliveros Maglalang was celebrated with her parents Edgar & Eleanor, Sister Gabrielle Ashley and many family & friends on Saturday Feb 26th, 2011 at the Coast Edmonton East Hotel, Sherwood Park. The party included the 18 candles and roses, song performance & a remarkable cotillion dance performance by cousins & friends, followed by all night of dancing. Jehna’s actual birthday is Feb 3rd and she is currently finishing grade 12 at Archbishop Jordan and looking at pursuing a career in Social work.

Team Philippines (Women)

We are looking for Sponsors Mini World Cup Soccer March 30 – April 13, 2011 Edmonton District Soccer Association

Platinum Partners ($1000): Jersey Logo Gold Sponsors ($500): Honorable Mention on Advertisement Posters and Banner Silver Sponsors ($300): Advertisement Posters and Banner Bronze Partners ($100 and Under): Donations in Cash Volunteers Find us on Facebook:

________________ Name:_________________________ Company:______________________ Address:________________________ Sponsorship Level: ________________ Donation: $________ Type: ____ Cash ____ Cheque

Contact us for more information: (780) 429-4696 pinay2010@shaw.ca Grace Malbog-Tan – General Manager gracemalbogtan@yahoo.ca D.M. (Marie) Relos diane.relos@hotmail.com Theresa Solash tsolash@hotmail.com Arne Bernal - Coach abernal14@shaw.ca Michael Angeles - Coach mja99@hotmail.com

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March 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

by Gem & Lita Anis

MELBOURNE the "World's Best Sport City"

elcome to Melbourne the bustling capital of Victoria, the smallest continental state of Australia. With a cosmopolitan population of 4 million including the myriad ethnic communities (it has the largest "Greek" community on the planet outside of Greece and 24,570 Filipinos), Melbourne is big on everything - "culture and arts, Victoria era buildings, high fashion, luxuriant parks, and friendly, sports-minded people". Named in honour of Lord

Gem and Lita at Shrine of Remembrance.

Melbourne, once the Prime Minister of England, Melbourne was founded by free settlers, not convicts. The city evolved from its pastoral beginnings on the banks of the Yarra River, city's main waterway, until the mid 1800's when the discovery of gold ushered in sudden wealth to Melbourne and with it an influx of migrants from all over the world. Melbourne is easy to explore. All the city's places of interest are on or adjacent to the "Golden Mile", the heart of the metropolis

and home to government and commercial hub, shopping district, main hotels, and theatres. A motorcoach ride through the bay suburbs past through beautiful residential areas of Victorian homes make it easy to get to know the wonder that is Melbourne. The city is also home to world's largest tram network and could be an alternative means to explore its sites. One of the city's notable sights is the ornate Princess Theatre, built in 1882 for Queen Victoria's Jubilee, and regarded as Melbourne's home for international musical productions. We drove through one of the most recognizable landmarks of Melbourne, the Flinders Street Station, the central railway station at the corner of Flinders and Swanston Streets where the "meeting under the clocks" has become a Melbourne cultural institution. A must-see is the Fitzroy Gardens, the 19th century landscaped gardens laid out across 64 acres with large formal garden beds, walking paths, a superb collection of trees, a conservatory fresh with blooms, and the famous cottage that was once the home of Capt. James Cook. A permanent and lasting memory to the ANZAC (Australia New Zealand Army Corps) spirit, the men and women of Victoria who served and those who died in the Great War, is the Shrine of Remembrance, designed with a ray of sunlight falling on the Stone More on page 17 â&#x2013;ş

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Gem and Lita at Captain James Cookâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cottage.

Downtown Melbourne

Flinders Street Station.

Alberta

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Philippine News

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March 2011