October2011

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E P I C K - U P!

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Volume 4, Number 10 • October 2011

Alberta Publications Mail Agreement 40032612

Alison Redford, First Female and 14th Premier of Alberta

CEFA Recepient of Community Initiative Grant (CIP)

Page 28 ►

The Council of Edmonton Filipino Associations (CEFA)received a grant of $20,900 from Community Initative Program (CIP). MLA Carl Benito & MLA Naresh Bardwaj handed in the check at the office of MLA Bhardwaj. Lulu Bernal receives the check on behalf of CEFA.

Page 14 ►

Alison Redford takes the oath of office as Alberta's 14th Premier.

Mary Kate Aquino Sings "O Canada" at the Sworn in Ceremony of Alison Redford Live in Edmonton

Page 24 ►

Page 18 ►

Page 22 ►

Page 25 ►

Mary Kate with the newly elected 14th Premier of Alberta Alison Redford.

see page 3 for more details

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5

Touristic President

PEREZCOPE

by Perry

Diaz

PerryDiaz@gmail.com

J

ust before he left Japan for the flight back to Manila, President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III met with Nikkei president Ryoko Sugita. Sugita invited P-Noy to be a speaker at the Future of Asia forum in Japan in May 2012. P-Noy told Sugita that he would “seriously consider” the invitation and hope that the “state of affairs” then would permit him to accept the invitation. On a scale of 1 to 10, the probability of P-Noy accepting the invitation would be 9.9. Why? Based on his past travels, I haven’t heard of P-Noy declining an invitation to visit another country.

Interestingly, P-Noy told Sugita that he is likely to visit the Middle East and Europe next year to meet with Filipino migrant communities. Now, that could cover as many as six or seven countries… or even more, considering that there is a Filipino migrant community in all Middle Eastern and European countries.

P-Noy’s international trips P-Noy’s travel binge started within three months after he assumed the presidency on June

30, 2010. On September 2026, 2010, P-Noy traveled to the United States, which included stops in New York City and three cities in California. In New York he addressed the United Nations’ General Assembly. He had a sideline chat with U.S. President Barack Obama for a few minutes at the United Nations. At the General Assembly, he also met Vietnamese President Nguyen Minh Triet who invited him to visit Vietnam.

The following month, October 26-30, he traveled to Vietnam.

While in Vietnam, P-Noy participated at the 17th ASEAN Summit. And on the sidelines, P-Noy had several “bilateral meetings” with leaders from Japan, Myanmar, South Korea, and Thailand who invited him to visit their country.

Two weeks later, November 12-14, P-Noy was in Yokohama, Japan to attend the 18th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

His trip to Japan was productive.

He was able to secure Japan’s approval of a P21.4-billion Official Development Assistance (ODA) for major infrastructure projects in the Philippines.

In March 2011, P-Noy took off again. This time, his destination was Indonesia and Singapore. On March 7-9, 2011, P-Noy was accorded “ceremonial honors” reserved for Heads of State, which included a state banquet at the State Palace.

From Indonesia, P-Noy went to Singapore on March 9-11. He called on Singaporean President S.R. Nathan and met with Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong (Lee Kuan Yew’s son) to discuss bilateral and regional issues.

On May 7-8, he was back in

Indonesia, this time to attend the 18th ASEAN Leaders’ Meeting, which consists of 10 member countries.

Later that month, on May 26-27, P-Noy went to Thailand on an “official visit” – a notch below “state visit” – to meet with Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva. He was also accorded with “ceremonial honors” at the Government House.

P-Noy was conferred a doctorate degree honoris causa in Economics by the Kasetsart University.

On June 1-2, P-Noy went on a “state visit” to Brunei Darussalam where His Royal Highness The Crown Prince Al-Muhtadee Billah at the airport received him royally.

P-Noy was accorded “welcoming honors” at Istana Nurul Iman where he was introduced to the Royal Family followed by a short audience with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah.

On August 4-5, P-Noy went secretly to Yokohama, Japan to meet with Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) Chairman Al Haj Murad Ibrahim to discuss peace in Mindanao. The secret meeting was widely criticized by the Philippine media and various politicians and officials.

Lat month, September 2011, was by far, the “tsunami” of his travel binge – crisscrossing the world to visit the world’s top three economic powers. First was a “state visit” to China on August 30-September 3.

He brought with him more than 270 business people. The trip was touted to bring home a five-year $50-billion development package. However, it fell short of his expectation. He was able to attract a commitment of only $1.2-billion from state-owned Chinese companies. The highlight

of his trip was a sentimental trip to Hongjian village in Xiamen City in Fujian province. This is the village where his ancestors came from. In keeping with Chinese traditions, P-Noy offered incense at the ancestral temple to honor his ancestors.

Two weeks later, on September 18-21, P-Noy flew to New York for a “working visit” where he participated in the launching of the Open Government Partnership (OGP) upon the invitation of Obama who co-chaired the event. The purpose of the “partnership” is aimed to “secure concrete commitments from governments to promote transparency, empower citizens, fight corruption and harness new technologies to strengthen governance.” However, upon his return to Manila, P-Noy held his opposition against the passage of the Freedom of Information bill, one of the key goals of OGP in promoting transparency in government. The highlight of his trip was the conferment of Doctor of Laws honoris causa by Fordham University in New York.

His last trip this year was to Tokyo, Japan on September 2528. It was his second “official visit.” His primary purpose was to attract investors and also to secure a $1.1-billion development loan. During his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Yoshihiko Noda, P-Noy made a pledge of $1 million donation to the earthquake and tsunami victims last April this year.

11 trips a year With three visits to Japan; two each to Indonesia and the United States; and one each to China,

Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, and Brunei that makes P-Noy the most traveled president of the Philippines. Except for his last visit to Japan, P-Noy traveled 11 times within a period of one year.

As for the future, P-Noy is scheduled to attend the following events: October 21-23, 2011 -Bali, Indonesia for the ASEAN Summit; November 12-13, 2011 -- Honolulu, Hawaii for the APEC U.S. Summit; 2012 -- Seoul, South Korea for the Nuclear Security Summit; 2012 -- Vladivostok, Russia for the APEC Russia Summit; and November 5-6, 2012 -- Vientiane, Laos for the 10th Asia Europe Meeting. These are in addition to his planned Middle Eastern and European trips that he told Sugita when he was in Japan last September.

If he continues to travel at this rate, he would have traveled 66 times during his six-year presidency or an average of 11 trips a year. By comparison, former Gloria Macapagal Arroyo traveled 72 times during the nine and a half years of her presidency or an average of eight trips a year.

By far, that would make P-Noy the most traveled President in Philippine history. And looking at the leisurely side trips he made while conducting his official business, he must have had a grand time touring places. A touristic President, indeed. ## # NOTE: The information on President Aquino’s travels was gleaned from “List of international trips made by Benigno Aquino” (Wikipedia).

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Ikaw ang may kapangyarihan sa sarili mong pag-unlad.

Are you looking for a career opportunity where you can make a difference and bring balance to your life? Do you want to be your own boss, where the earning potential is limitless and your efforts are rewarded?

If this is you, gusto kitang makausap.

Bernard Villarena Sales Manager Bus 780-408-5480 ext 2202 Cell 780-222-0794 bernard.villarena@sunlife.com www.sunlife.ca/bernard.villarena Whitemud Crossing, #130, 4211-106th Street Edmonton, AB T6J 6L7 Sun Life Financial advisors are contracted with Sun Life Financial Distributors (Canada) Inc., registered in Quebec as a financial services firm. © Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada, 2011.

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October 2011

Proposed Changes to the Federal Skilled Workers (FSW) Program could be one or two months long.

The good news is: the changes may not alter the existing six (6) selection criteria but it may change the number of points assigned to the selection criteria and the way points are assessed or allocated.

Immigration News

by Jon

Salvador, BSc.

Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

(About the writer: Jon Salvador is a licensed immigration consultant and a member in good standing with the Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council (ICCRC). 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.

I have received several inquiries about the proposed Canadian government changes to the existing FSW selection criteria that were published earlier. Many people were concerned, if the new selection criteria are now in effect. The short answer is: not yet.

However the changes to the FSW program may be announced before the end of the year. Depending on the person’s education, work experience within the past 10 years, age, proficiency in English, etc. the new selection criteria may be more difficult to meet.

My recommendation to the people who are planning to apply under the FSW program is: to apply as soon as possible, before the government changes are implemented. Get all the required documents ready (ie.

Police Clearances, Certificates of Employment, Birth Certificates, Transcript of Records, Diplomas, IELTS test scores, Marriage Certificates or Divorce Certificates, etc.). If you have not taken the IELTS exams yet or if your initial tests scores were low, register to take the IELTS Exams as soon as possible because the waiting list

Listed below are the proposed changes to the existing FSW program: 1. More points for language proficiency – Canada Immigration and Citizenship (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 category (NOC: O, A, B or C). 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 compared to trades people. (Note: IELTS Exam – General Training test scores taken on or after Dec. 26, 2010 are now valid for two (2) years. A person can also take the IELTS exams several times to pass the requirements. Ask your immigration consultant about a useful IELTS Reviewer book).

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 younger age – CIC proposes to increase maximum points for age from 10 to 12 points. Maximum points will be awarded only until age 35, with a gradual decrease of points until age 49. No age points will be awarded after age 50. Canada wants younger immigrants who can easily adapt and positively contribute to the Canadian economy.

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.

3. Reduce years of education required for Trades people to claim points– 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 reflects the Canadian educational system and fails to take into account the differences with respect to the immigrant’s home country school system.

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 reflect its true value.

5. More rigorous rules on Arranged Employment Offers – CIC proposes more strict regulatory provisions and definitions to enforce tighter frontend 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. This policy is intended to reduce fake job offers from Canadian employers.

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 FSW program changes take effect. Good luck to you all.

NOTE: There are several immigration programs in Canada. The FSW program is only one of the several programs available. Consult with a licensed immigration consultant to determine which program you may be best suited to apply under depending on: your education, age, work experience within the past 10 years, if you have a spouse with a college degree, proficiency in English, whether you worked as a skilled or semiskilled worker in Canada, or if you have direct relatives in Canada who are citizens or PRs, or whether you are planning to marry, or have married or living common-law with a Canadian citizen or PR, etc.

Rationale: Arranged Employment Offer awards the applicant a total of 15 points in Legal Disclaimer: the FSW selection criteria (ie. 10 This news article is designed points for arranged employment for general information only. and 5 points for adaptability) The information presented in this and waives the requirement article should not be construed for settlement funds. Due to to be formal legal advice or the these advantages, this selection formation of a consultant/client criterion has been susceptible to relationship. Each individual exploitation of persons attempting to immigrate with a fraudulent situation is different and people job offer. Employers sometimes should seek proper advice on provide bogus job offers for a fee their specific cases with a licensed to recruiting agencies that in turn immigration consultant of their 4. Reduce points based on work victimizes unknowing would be choice. experience – CIC proposes to immigrants. decrease the maximum points Outlined below is a chart that summarizes the changes being considered awarded to work experience from by the Canadian government: 21 to 15 points. It is also proposed Summary: to increase the range of years within Current vs. Proposed Federal Skilled Worker Points Grid which points are allotted. This means that applicants need to have Selection Criteria Current System Proposed System more work experience in order Education 25 25 to get awarded maximum points.

The points previously allotted to Language 24 28 work experience will be reallocated Work Experience 21 15 to age and language proficiency Age 10 12 selection criteria.

Arranged Employment 10 10 Adaptability 10 10 Rationale: Research shows TOTAL: 100 100 that the FSW program places more

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LAKAMBINI: The Life of Gregoria de Jesus

by Danilo V.

Donor ( M.A Ed. )

donordanilo@yahoo.com

G

regoria de Jesus was one of the heroine of the Philippine Revolution of 1896. She was born on May 9,1875 , a native of Caloocan, then a town north of Manila.Her father was Nicolas de Jesus.He was a land owner,a master mason and carpenter by occupation.He also held the following offices in the Spanish colonial bureaucracy: "teniente segundo"(second leutenant),"teniente mayor"(vice mayor) and "gobernadorcillo"(town mayor).Her mother ,Baltazara Alvarez Francisco,was a native of Noveleta,Cavite and a niece of General Mariano Alvarez,the leader of Magdiwang Council in Cavite and one of the local politicians in the said province.

She attended public schools and finished first grades of intruction which is today equivalent to intermediate grades.She reciseved a silver medal with blue ribbon in an examination given by the town curate and the Governor General in recognition for her learning. While her parents sent her two brothers to study in Manila (boys were given a priority then),Gregoria and her sister helped their parents supervised their farmland's tenants and laborers and pay their wages.

She also did some sewing and weaving and always assisting her mother in the household chores.

When she was eighteen years old. a young widower named Andres Bonifacio ,accompanied by her cousin Teodoro Plata and Ladislao Diwa ,began to visit her.

Andres and Gregoria secretly fell in love . Her parents disapproved their relationship because Andres Bonifacio was a Freemason.

She was hidden and kept like a prisoner by her parents in a house in Binondo ,Manila .Gregoria sought the intervention of the town mayor of Binondo so that she can marry her fiancee Andres.

In deference to her parents, she married Andres in the Catholic Church of Binondo in 1893 . In the evening of the same day they were united in the Katipunan wedding

ceremony.She was initiated in the Katipunan Woman Chapter (equivalent to Co-Masonry/ Adoptive Freemasonry ) headed

by Josefa Rizal ,president and she was elected as its vice president.

She took the Katipunan symbolic name ,"Lakambini"(Princess).

The women members were the wives,sisters or daughters of Katipunan members. While its male members were having their secret meetings, they danced and sing in the living room to draw away the attention of Spanish authorities. She was entrusted the delicate job of custodian of Katipunan documents, seals, paraphernalia and revovers. She recounted in her memoirs that even in the midst of the night she was sometimes awaken and warned by Katipunan spies that a possible raid will be conducted in their residence.

She will ride in a horse carriage and almost clothed with subversive documents.

Gregoria and Benita Javier sawed the first katipunan flag which consist of red cloth with three white horizontal Ks. Gregoria gave birth to a boy baptized and named Andres and Dr.Pio Valenzuela stood as his godfather.In the year 1896 ,months before the outbreak of the revolution ,the Bonifacios suffered

‘Don’t Be That Guy’ campaign launches in Calgary RELEASED ON BEHALF OF SEXUAL ASSAULT VOICES OF CALGARY (SAV Calgary) It’s a hard-hitting behavioural marketing campaign that’s bound to get people talking, and that’s exactly what members of SAV Calgary (Sexual Assault Voices of Calgary) are hoping for.

The campaign features some powerful language and graphics with the goal of raising public awareness of alcohol-related sexual assaults, while holding offenders accountable for their behaviours.

Historically, sexual assault campaigns have been aimed at women, offering techniques and advice on how to protect themselves from becoming a victim of this crime. This campaign’s focus is different and unique in that it targets the actions of the offender - not the behaviours of the victim, recognizing it is the offenders themselves who are responsible for changing their behaviours.

The ads are bold and graphic and are intended to hit home with their target audience - men between the ages of 18 to 24.

The message is clear someone who is incapacitated by alcohol or drugs cannot give consent, and sex without consent is sexual assault.

In 2010, 62 per cent of sexual assaults investigated by the Sex Crimes Unit in Calgary involved a victim who was incapacitated by alcohol or drugs. However, officials know there are many more cases that are not reported to police.

“In the public discourse

around sexual assault, there exists a hierarchy of blame when talking about the person who has been sexually assaulted. We make judgements about what we think are right and moral in the world and in doing so often blame the victim for the assault,” says Danielle Aubry, Executive Director at Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse.

“But it is important to recognize that even though we may not always agree with how someone dresses, or the behaviours that they partake in, these do not negate the fact that all individuals deserve safety and security in their communities and their homes.”

Laurie Blahitka, executive director Public Health, Alberta Health Services adds, “As a community, it is important for us to stand together and say this type of behaviour is not acceptable and the consequences are too great.

The Calgary partners are pleased to join with other communities around the country in this important social initiative.”

Posters will be displayed in bars and clubs, LRT platforms, inside buses and CTrains, as well as inside some schools and universities to encourage men not to be ‘that guy’.

A website has also been developed to provide additional information to support the campaign (www.savcalgary.ca) The campaign echoes one launched in Edmonton in November 2010 and SAV Calgary would like to thank SAVEdmonton for allowing them to use their campaign materials.

Partners involved in SAV

Calgary include, Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services, Alberta Health Service, Calgary Communities Against Sexual Abuse, Calgary Police Service, Calgary Sexual Health Centre, Canadian Red Cross, Connect Family and Sexual Abuse Network and HomeFront.

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two great misfortunes: their house was burned down and their child Andres II died.

When the Katipunan headed

by Andres Bonifacio ,the Supreme President of the Katagalugan (Philippine) Republic unfurled the banner of revolution on August 1896.

Gregoria escaped to her family home in Caloocan and sought refuge in the house of her uncle Simplicio de Jesus and sister-in- law Esperidiona Bonifacio in Manila .She joined her husband Andres at San Francisco del Monte and in the historic Katipunan headquarter in Balara and from there they proceed to the province of Cavite, due to the invitation of the Magdiwang faction headed by the Gen. Mariano Alvarez ,Gregoria's relative.

In Cavite, she witness the divisiveness in the ranks of the Katipunan brethren. The province was divided into two rival factions vying for provincial and later for national leadership. Bonifacio lately discovered that the Cavite elites have a low regard and respect for to his leadership. Series of meetings

were held from December 1896 to March 1897 , to unite the rebel forces,which ended in the abolition of the Katipunan and the removal of Bonifacio from leadership.

Bonifacio did not recognized the legality of the established revolutionary government headed

by Emilio Aguinaldo.After a brief skirmish with the Aguinaldo troops ,the Bonifacio brothers Andres and Ciriaco, Gregoria de Jesus and some of his soldiers were arrested and put into trial in a kangaroo military court. The Bonifacio brothers was execcuted on May 1897 and Gregoria was set free.

On December 10,1898 , the young widow Gregoria married Julio Nakpil , a talented musician,jewelrer and a trusted aide of Bonifacio,in Quiapo Church ,Manila. They stayed in the house of the philanthropist Dr.Ariston Bautista married to Petrona Nakpil,Julio's sister.By her second husband ,she have eight children.She died on March 15,1943,during the dark days of the Japanese Occupation of the Philippines.

8 Filipino Journal

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October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Mona Liza Agar Cristobal – Jonathon Mark May Nuptial (By: Elisita (Babe) M. Salcedo)

T

he invitation was set in pretty Tiffany blue which was the motif of the event. The print was very fine and one needed a magnifying glass to read the letters.

But that’s how Liza writes in real life.

The invitation is Liza herself. It read, “August 6, 2011, St. Piux X Roman Catholic Church at 2:00 p.m.”. Rev. Father Patrick Baska was officiating.

Her entourage comprised of intimate friends known since childhood, starting with Maria (Miko) Regina Micaela Salcedo as the maid of honor and Gerald May as the best man; Liza Mentz, Jennifer Pino and Laura Seto served as bridesmaids, and Gregory May, Edward May and Clinton Jurke as groomsmen. There are four May brothers and Mark is the youngest.

The rest are taken.

The day was beautiful – sunny with a slight breeze. Beside the altar, one could hear Darren Long (soloist) warming his vocal chords. The groom’s family members (majority were from out-of-town) and friends started arriving.

The principal sponsors / godparents, namely: Mr. and Mrs. Lorenzo Dumlao, Mr. & Mrs. Rene Delera, Mr. & Mrs. Ramon Salcedo and Mr. & Mrs. Virgilio Mendoza arrived almost simultaneously. The church’s historic architecture, natural wood, candles on both side of the altar and ambience created a special warm feeling.

One can see how excellent Father Baska was as an organizer, from the individual entrances (there’s a particular ceiling beam that served as a cue as to when the next couple will follow), the actual ceremony and the final procession. This became noticeable when the entourage marched down the aisle.

The groomsmen came in first, then Mark and his parents. The two adorable flower girls (Cerys and Elin May – nieces of the groom) followed, then the bridesmaids and maid of honor.

Finally, came the bride. Liza walked with her mom (Aida Cristobal), a lovely sight to behold – mother and daughter, always as one. Aida had a proud expression on her face, and Liza, beautiful in her fashioned princess style white gown with the full skirt terminating in a short train, and full veil. Her face radiated happiness.

Mark, looking dignified and waiting at the altar, was teary-eyed. And so were we.

The ceremony went without any hitches. Father Baska’s “Homily” on the sanctity of marriage was simple, direct to the point and in

The principal sponsors (“ninongs and ninangs”)

layman’s language. That should be one afternoon that this sacrament is understood by all. Next was the cultural infusion of Filipino wedding tradition – the “arras”, unity candles, veil and the cord. The three latter customs were performed by the godparents, a brilliant idea. I say “brilliant” since in many ceremonies I have witnessed, the godparents (“ninongs” and ninangs”) were left twiddling their thumbs throughout the ceremony. In some cases where the number of godparents outnumbered the size of guests there is a symphony of twiddling thumbs!

The Butler Service and Hors D’Oeuvres and Signature Cocktail” reception was held at the Matrix Hotel downtown. This was a very intimate wedding – only the very closest friends and family members.

That’s the way the couple wished it to be. There was much authenticity in the place. Liza and Mark went from table to table, exchanging pleasantries, hugs and kisses with their guests. Miko Salcedo, who planned and executed the decors, was applauded for the superb work she did. The whole place emanated geniality, romance, calm, friendship and loyalty. The music (including the audio and visual arranged by Mark Royal and Nathan Wohlgemuth) got the guests up and dancing and simply having a fabulous time. Many were on the dance floor, letting the rest of the night simply sweep past.

All in all, it went truly well, and every¬one had a good time. The whole thing wouldn’t have been any¬where near pos¬si¬ble with¬out all the help and sup¬port the couple got from every¬one involved. It was amaz¬ing to see how close and sup¬port¬ive everyone is to each other. Watching Mark and Liza, all the work was worth it for these two, as we knew, were meant for each other.

Ronald Cantiveros

Publisher/Chief Operating Officer VP-Business Development Managing Editor

Rod Escobar Cantiveros 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

Liza and Mark had a message in their invitation which I found so reflective, and I quote: “In everyone’s life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It then

by Creative Shots Photography burst into flames by an encounter with another human being. We should be thankful for those people who rekindle our inner spirit”.

“Each one of you was carefully selected and exclusively invited to our wedding celebration because of Aria Yvonne Torres was born on July 27, 2011 and was baptised the love, generosity, compassion and at St. Theresa Parish Chuch On October 16, 2011. kindness you have shown us. When We would like to thank all of our friends and relatives who joined we look upon your faces we can us to welcome our daughter to the christian world. recall without hesitation affectionate stories filled with laughter, heartache, accomplishment and cherished moments – we remember experiencing them all with you and because of this, we are blessed and evermore grateful for your presence in our lives.

“To our parents and kin, you are love. Your never-ending guidance and unfailing strength have been extraordinary powers in lives.

Because of you, we know happiness.

We love you with our entirety and give thanks to you for the solid foundation, stepping-stones and guided lines you have placed before us”.

“To our friends, you are light. Aria Yvonne Torres In our darkest moments, this is when your light shone brilliantly upon us.

A kind smile or an approving nod, you carried us to higher ground when we didn’t have the strength to do it ourselves. We thank you with our minds and hearts as your are the anchored rocks we hold onto.”

“To our God, He is life. He is the very entity that brought us together in love and marriage, and brought all of you His warriors and angels – our family and friends – into our lives for protection and guidance.

We give thanks to our Maker and pray to Him for our continued blessings in all our lives”.

Welcome to the Christian World baby Aria Yvonne

Aria with the Family

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Johnny Cantiveros Carl Benito Gem M. Anis Danilo Donor Lito Cleofe Dolly Punsalan Castillo

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October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

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by Dennise Yambao Dennise Yambao is a volunteer writer for the Alberta Filipino Journal and is currently pursuing a career in the investment and financial services industry. She has called Calgary home since 2005, shortly after completing her post-secondary studies at the University of the Philippines Diliman.

When she is not dispensing investment advice to her clients, Dennise enjoys pounding the pavement in her runners, improving her swimming skills, and discovering the world through books and travel.

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Musings on a Filipino Thanksgiving in Canada

nyone who was raised in a Filipino household knows that holidays and special occasions are always earmarked with family gatherings, where the focal point is often a large spread of various and often elaborate dishes. My family is no exception to this cultural trait; hence upon moving to Canada six years ago we gleefully embraced the Thanksgiving tradition. As if there weren’t enough birthdays and religious holidays to use as an excuse to cook and eat excessively, we gladly accepted another reason to do so. A novel thing to us, we welcomed turkey dinners, pumpkin pie, the whole works. For a couple of years, we

attempted to perfect the art of roasting a turkey, tried making candied yams, and honed a taste for cranberry sauce.

Alas, it seems nothing compares to good old Filipino cooking. After several lukewarm attempts at turkey making, my mother has since reverted to the better-received hamonado, while the pumpkin pie has since been substituted with ube cake. The only thing recognizable from the Canadian Thanksgiving menu is the plateful of mashed potatoes, and even then it has to share the limelight with piping hot steamed rice. In spite of the creative liberties we’ve taken with our Thanksgiving dinner, I know that

the holiday’s meaning has not been lost in translation. Never really the verbally expressive type, my mother tends show her affections by reaching out to our stomachs, not unlike many Filipino mothers.

As is her way, she often goes overboard by making several different types of entrees and desserts, always leavingwith leftovers to last us for days. And so each year goes with our family crammed in a dining table overflowing with food, elbow to elbow with one another, and the resonance of a Filipino Thanksgiving in Canada is most loud and clear. In and around that little table are the

things in life that we are most thankful for – family, tradition, food! Our ethnic thanksgiving dinner, a stark contrast from the stuffing and gravy that everyone else is probably having, is a constant reminder of how within a relatively short period of time, we have managed to create comfortable lives for ourselves in a country that was once strange and foreign to us. We are thankful for the ability to make a decent living, for the opportunity to make new friends and keep old ties, for the chance to build a life in a city a million miles from home.

Public Service Announcement: Home Fire Escape Planning and Practice

T

his week is National Fire Prevention Week and today the Calgary Fire Department wants to remind all Calgarians the importance of having and practicing a home escape plan.

Fire can spread rapidly through your home, leaving you as little as two minutes to escape safely once the alarm sounds.

Your ability to get out depends on advance warning from smoke alarms, and advance planning — a home fire escape plan that everyone in your family is familiar with and has practiced.

Only one fifth of households have actually developed and practiced a home escape plan to ensure they would escape quickly and safely. One-third of households who made an estimate thought they would have at least six minutes before a fire in their home would be life-threatening.

The time available is often less than three minutes. And only a small percentage of people said their first thought on hearing a smoke alarm would be to get out!

Developing a Home Escape Plan: Pull together everyone in your household and make a plan. Walk through your home and inspect all possible exits and escape routes.

Households with children should consider drawing a floor plan of your home, marking two ways out of each room, including windows and doors. This is a great way to get children involved in fire safety in a non-threatening way.

Install smoke alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home.

Everyone in the household

must understand the escape plan.

When you walk through your plan, check to make sure the escape routes are clear and doors and windows can be opened easily.

Choose an outside meeting place (i.e. neighbour's house, a light post, mailbox, or stop sign) a safe distance in front of your home where everyone can meet after they've escaped. Make sure to mark the location of the meeting place on your escape plan.

Go outside to see if your street number is clearly visible from the road. If not, correct or install house numbers to ensure that responding emergency personnel can find your home.

Have everyone memorize the emergency phone number of the fire department. That way any member of the household can call from a neighbour's home or a cellular phone once safely outside.

If there are infants, older adults, or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in the fire drill and in the event of an emergency. Assign a backup person too, in case the designee is not home during the emergency.

If windows or doors in your home have security bars make sure that the bars have emergency release devices inside so that they can be opened immediately in an emergency. Emergency release devices won't compromise your security.

Tell guests or visitors to your home about your family's fire escape plan. When staying overnight at other people's homes, ask about their escape plan. If they don't have a plan in place,

offer to help them make one.

This is especially important when children are permitted to attend "sleepovers" at friends' homes.

Be fully prepared for a real fire: when a smoke alarm sounds, get out immediately.

Once you're out, stay out!

Under no circumstances should you ever go back into a burning building. If someone is missing, inform the fire department dispatcher when you call.

Firefighters have the skills and equipment to perform rescues.

Putting your plan to the test Practice your home fire escape plan twice a year, making the drill as realistic as possible.

Make arrangements in your plan for anyone in your home who has a disability.

Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. The objective is to practice, not to frighten, so telling children there will be a drill before they go to bed can be as effective as a surprise drill.

It's important to determine during the drill whether children and others can readily waken to the sound of the smoke alarm. If they fail to awaken, make sure that someone is assigned to wake them up as part of the drill and in a real emergency situation.

If your home has two floors, every family member (including children) must be able to escape from the second floor rooms.

Escape ladders can be placed in or near windows to provide an additional escape route. Review the manufacturer's instructions carefully so you'll be able to use a safety ladder in an emergency.

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Practice setting up the ladder from a first floor window to make sure you can do it correctly and quickly.

Children should only practice with a grown-up, and only from a firststory window. Store the ladder near the window, in an easily accessible location. You don't want to have to search for it during a fire.

Always choose the escape route that is safest – the one with the least amount of smoke and heat – but be prepared to escape under toxic smoke if necessary. When you do your fire drill, everyone in the family should practice getting low and going under the smoke to your exit.

Closing doors on your way out slows the spread of fire, giving you more time to safely escape.

In some cases, smoke or fire may prevent you from exiting your home or apartment building.

To prepare for an emergency like this, practice "sealing yourself in for safety" as part of your home fire escape plan. Close all doors between you and the fire. Use duct tape or towels to seal the door cracks and cover air vents to keep smoke from coming in. If possible, open your windows at the top and bottom so fresh air can get in. Call the fire department to report your exact location. Wave a flashlight or light-coloured cloth at the window to let the fire department know where you are located.

Visit www.calgaryfire.ca for more information on fire safety, escape plans, and fire prevention For media inquiries, please contact: Brian McAsey, Public Information Officer, Calgary Fire Department, brian.mcasey@ calgary.ca, 403 988-7922

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King of Kings Restaurant Opening Night Filipino local band headed by Jess Valdez entertained the patrons of the newly opened restaurant King of Kings inside the Palace Casino at West Edmonton Mall. The restaurant formally opened its door last Friday, September 23, 2011. Patrons and guests were treated with Chinese traditional red packets gifts and discounts on food. Eva, the Filipino manager served free cakes and hot tea to guests.

Eva with George Yammine, Tony Chan and Rui.

The Band

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Jess Valdez and His Band

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ADVERTISE in the

Filipino Journal AND FEEL THE WARMTH OF THE UNIQUE FILIPINO CULTURE IN CANADA! NOW SERVING ALBERTA - EDMONTON, CALGARY, RED DEER, FORT MCMURRAY, MEDICINE HAT, GRAND PRAIRIE and NORTHWEST TERRITORIES

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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.

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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.

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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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Ron Cantiveros (204) 489-8894 ron@FilipinoJournal.com

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October 2011

Lieutenant Governor launches mental Alison Redford, First Female and 14th health and addiction initiative Premier of Alberta

by

Carl Benito, MLA Edmonton Mill Woods

As the MLA for Edmonton MillWoods, I am always available to assist constituents. If you have any questions regarding any of the issues discussed in this release, I can be reached in my constituency office at #218; 4128A-97 Street, or in my Legislature office at 780-422-9299. Also, please subscribe to my e newsletter at http://benito.mypcmla. ca/. Follow us on Facebook: facebook. com/carl.benito, twitter: http://twitter.com/ MLACarlBenito and You Tube: http://www. youtube.com/benitomla

T

he Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction was introduced Oct. 5, 2011 at a gathering of representatives from provincial mental health organizations, Alberta businesses, community leaders and individuals who have experienced mental health and addictions issues.

The Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction will consist of experts in the field, community leaders and those who have experienced mental health and addictions

issues. The Circle will work to: • reduce stigma related to mental illness and addiction; • further public knowledge of the topic; • highlight and encourage positive steps being taken to improve the lives of Albertans of all ages who are affected by all types of mental illness; and • encourage collaboration among various Alberta organizations and initiatives that deal with mental health and addiction.

His Honour, Col, (Ret’d) the Honourable Donald S. Ethell will serve as founding Patron of the Circle.

Circle programs will include annual awards to encourage and recognize Albertans who demonstrate commitment, passion and ingenuity in their work to improve the lives of those living with mental illness and addiction.

Other aspects of this unique initiative to be developed in the future will include opportunities, such as public lectures, seminars and round table discussions, so that Albertans can learn more about mental health and addiction and their impact on the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.

Information about the Lieutenant Governor’s Circle on Mental Health and Addiction, including details of the award program, can be found at www. mhpa.ab.ca/LGCircle.

October marks Child Abuse

Awareness Month October is National Child Abuse Awareness Month, a time for all Albertans to improve their knowledge of how to recognize and protect children and youth from abuse and neglect.

There are a number of reasons why Albertans may not report child abuse, such as not knowing the signs of abuse, or how to make a report, or not wanting to become involved. But reports from neighbours, teachers, friends, family members and health professionals are critical to ensuring action is taken to assist children and youth who are being abused or neglected and keep them safe.

There are a number of supports and services available through government and community programs to help families who are struggling with issues that may lead to child abuse or neglect. It is important that Albertans recognize the signs of abuse, and contact their local Child and Family Services Authority, Delegated First Nations Agency, or police if they suspect a child is being harmed. The confidential Child Abuse Hotline is available at 1-800-387-5437, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information about preventing child abuse and providing nurturing, safe environments for children and youth, visit www.child.alberta.ca.

As your MLA, I can: •Commission legal documents, free of charge as a Notary Public or Commissioner of Oaths.

•Provide official Legislature commemora tive certificates for special occasions such as significant wedding anniversaries, birthdays and facility openings.

•Help you resolve issues with any government Department, or help you access assistance regarding social services, student loans, etc.

•Provide you information or material on provincial issues, including copies of Hansard, Bills, Motions, News Releases, etc.

•Have petitions presented to the Legislature Assembly on provincial issues that are important to you.

•Meet with you, your family, your co-workers your organization, or your Community League to listen to and act on your concerns or ideas.

•Assist organizations with provincial grant applications, such as the Community Facility Enhancement Program (CFEP), Community Initiatives Program (CIP), etc.

•Arrange for you to attend Question Period session or any Legislature debates, or tour of the Legislature for you, your out-oftown guests, your service club, or school.

Constituency Office #218, 4128 A - 97 Street Edmonton, AB T6E 5Y6 Tel (780) 414-1000 Fax (780) 414-1278 E-Mail:

T

he Progressive Conservative party of Alberta elected Alison Redford, the 14th Premier of Alberta to replace retiring former Premier Ed Stelmach.

Redford took her oath of office on Friday October 7, 2011 before a couple of hundred invited guests at the rotunda of the Legislature Building. The

ceremony lasted for just barely half hour at around11:00 in the morning. Alison came out victorious in a second balloting edging Gary Mar, a strong contender with a small margin.

The Alberta Filipino Journal witness the ceremony along with Mary Kate Aquino who sang the National Anthem ''O Canada''.

Jun Angeles, Publisher of Alberta Filipino Journal with the newly elect Premier of Alberta Alison Redford Photo by Jun Angeles | Filipino Journal

10 Street N.W. Bike Lane Pilot Project

T

he City is launching a pilot program that sees new bike lanes on 10 Street NW between 5 Avenue and 23 Avenue.

Designated bike lanes are among recommendations contained in The City’s overall Cycling Strategy approved by City Council earlier this year. The strategy is aimed at increasing opportunities for cycling in Calgary and is an important step in implementing strategies to offer more transportation options to Calgarians.

The pilot is being launched now in response to the Cycling Strategy and take advantage of major road resurfacing that occurred in September. The City was able to apply temporary pavement markings to accommodate the pilot and get the work done before the first snow fall.

The pilot project offers

edmonton.millwoods@assembly.ab.ca

Legislature Office #723 Legislature Annex 9718 - 107 Street Edmonton, AB T5K 1E4 Tel (780) 422-9299 Fax (780) 422-1671

•Visit your school or organization to explain how the Government works and answer your questions.

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increased travel choice for Calgarians within the area, and to and from the downtown core. It also provides a key connection in the bicycle path network.

When bicycle infrastructure is installed in other cities, an increase in use and ridership is seen. In the October 2010 telephone survey, 80 per cent of Calgarians told us that they didn’t feel safe cycling in traffic, and that they would cycle more often with dedicated space — this includes bike lanes.

The City will assess the pilot project next spring and host public consultation next spring with stakeholders to determine the success of the program and how bike lanes might be improved.

Information on the pilot program can be accessed through calgary.ca.

October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Fido: Alert para sa Media Mas maraming savings sa Pinoyfriendly Unlimited Plan ng Fido

Fido cares about its customers kaya committed sila sa pagpoprovide sa kanila ng value. Part ng pangako nila, nag-alok ang Fido ng isang Pinoy-friendly Unlimited plan na $30 per month na may kasamang: Unlimited outgoing at incoming international text messages (kasama ang Philippines), unlimited local text messaging, unlimited incoming calls kahit saan man sa mundo, unlimited evening & weekend calls (incoming at outgoing local calls mula 5pm), mas maraming daytime minutes at may iba pang useful features na libre at WALANG SYSTEM ACCESS FEE.

Si Jacob Moshinsky, Rogers Communications Multicultural Marketing Manager, ang nag-present ng trophy sa the coach ng Mississauga Knights, NABA 2011 Tykes Division Champions.

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Filipino Journal

Isa pang masulit na program ay ang Refer-a-friend. Dito, ang mga Fido customers ay maaring i-refer ang Fido sa kanilang mga kaibigan at pamilya para makatanggap ng $20 credit o 20 FidoDOLLARS™.

Zoompass program ng Fido: Magpadala/tumanggap ng pera kaagad at sigurado both locally at internationally mula sa iyong smartphones na gamit ang Zoompass. Ito ay libreng application na puwede mong i-download sa iyong Fido phone.

Ang Fido ay proud supporter ng Filipino community events, sports at mga palaro. Recently lang ang Fido ang Tournament Sponsor

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ng annual basketball fest, the 24th NABA Inter-City Basketball Tournament, na hinost ng North York Pinoy Athletic Association (NYPAA) ng Toronto. Ginanap ang tournament noong Labour Day long weekend ng Canada.

Fido offers sa mga Canadian consumers ng marami at iba’tibang wireless voice at data communications products at services, pati na international roaming sa 200 na mga bansa. Visit http://www.fido.ca/filipino para sa additional information ng mga plans.

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October 2011

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Alberta’s most unique conference venue!

Isang masaya, natatangi at hindi malilimutan na karanasan ang inyong maaasahan.

You and your guests can spend the night in comfort and style in one of our 235 newly renovated Superior or Executive rooms or experience adventure in one of our 120 world-famous theme rooms.

• Fantasyland Hotel has over 25,000 square feet of banquet space, which includes a variety of room layouts, accommodating 10 to 1,200 individuals.

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Join the Filipino Journal Fan Page today!

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Mary Kate Aquino Sings "O Canada" at the Sworn in Ceremony of Alison Redford 14th Premier of Alberta

F

by Jun Angeles

or Mary Kate Aquino, a grade 7 student of Cardinal Newman in Calgary, singing the national anthem O Canada at the Legislature on Friday October 7, 2011 in Edmonton during the Swearingin-Ceremony of Alberta's 14th Premier and first female Premier

of Alberta was an honor and privilege realizing that it was history in the making that will not be repeated again.

With her angelic yet powerful voice she sung O Canada in a soothing reassuring tone with ease heralding a new beginning for Alberta and the new premier.

Mary Kate singing O Canada at the Legislature Rotunda

L-R Grandpa Petronio Cacatian Sr., Mom Josephine, Brother Mar, Jr., Premier Alison Redford, Mary Kate, Sister Jennifer and Dad Mar Sr.

With Lt. Governor of Alberta and his wife Lt. Gov. Donald S. Ethell

The rotunda of the Legislature building acoustically orchestrated that you can literally hear a drop of a pin filled the air with Mary Kate exuberant youthfulness and fresh voice triggering that sense of pride and patriotism.

Alison Redford chose children in her theme emphasizing

CTV interviewing Mary Kate

education and and promise to improve the education system.

She calls for change. "Because it is Albertans who have guided the agenda for change that I have called for. It is Albertans whose priorities will guide my actions, and those of my government.

And it is Albertans themselves

who will be our valued partners in bringing change Alberta needs."

Mary Kate Aquino, a Canadian born with Filipino ancestry should be proud to be chosen to sing O Canada. She not only portrays the youth but ushers in change in a new era of Alberta politics.

With the Mayor of Calgary Naheed Nenshi Photos by Jun Angeles | Filipino Journal

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Location, Location, Location How to Find a Home of Your Own

There is an old joke in Canada that says the three most important things in choosing a home are: location, location, location! While this is meant to be funny, it is also true that one of the most important things to look for when buying a home is a community where you will feel safe and comfortable, and which is convenient for you and your family.

To help you find a home of your own, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) offers the following tips on how to choose a location that works for you:  The choice of where you want to live often depends on where you work, and how you and your family want to live. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time driving to and from work, for example, you may want to look for a place that is close to where you work, or which has several options nearby for public transportation.  If you have children, look for a neighbourhood that is close to a good school. If your family is active, you may want to live near recreation facilities, such as a golf course, community centre, playground or public skating rink.  If you do not have a car, make sure the neighbourhood you choose has most of the services you will need. For example, will you be close to medical and dental care? Is there a place of worship for your faith nearby? Can you walk to stores to do your shopping? Is there public transportation, and does it get you where you need to go?  When you consider location, you should also consider the property values in the neighbourhood.

Property values are the average prices of the homes in the area. In most cases, it is better to buy a home in a neighbourhood where the house prices have been rising, rather than one where the prices are falling.

 It is also a good idea to find out if there are any future developments being planned that could affect house prices or property taxes. For instance, you probably wouldn’t want to buy your dream home in a peaceful, quiet community, only to find out that there are plans to build a highrise apartment building next door. Contact your municipal office and ask about the planning regulations and zoning bylaws for any area you are interested in.  If you are considering moving to a neighbourhood you aren’t already familiar with, take some time to drive or walk around the area, both during the day and at night. Look carefully at the schools and other local services. Find out how much time it would take you to commute to your job, either by car or using public transit.  In older neighbourhoods, you may also have a choice between new homes and resale homes.

New homes are houses that have just been built, and which no one has ever lived in before. Resale homes are houses that have been lived in by one or more other families, and which are being sold by the current owner. There are advantages and disadvantages to both types of housing, so make sure you decide what kind of home you want before you make any final decisions.

For more information or to obtain hard copies for FREE on other aspects of renting, buying and renovating a home in Canada, visit www.cmhc. ca/newcomers. For more than 65 years, Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) has been Canada’s national housing agency and a source of objective, reliable housing expertise.

For story ideas or to access CMHC experts or expertise, contact CMHC Media Relations National Office at: (613) 748-2799 or by e-mail: media@cmhc-schl.gc.ca

Welcome Home We are the Government of Canada’s national housing agency and the go-to resource to help you settle in Canada. Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation gives you the tools you need to make your housing decisions and find a safe, affordable home for your family.

We offer information on renting, buying and maintaining your home in 8 different languages.

We understand what home means to you.

Visit us at www.cmhc.ca/welcomehome

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October 2011

Seize the Opportunity of Tomorrow

by Miya Villarena

A

ugust ends and in comes September to take its place, rushing the tasks that vacation has failed to complete at hand. The voices of long forgotten days of rest disappear and in come murmurs of anxiety and unrest about school.

School.

Once more, students are transported from the atypical atmosphere of summer’s carefree nature and into the halls of the education system’s scientific, analytical, and mathematical paradigm. The days of being cooped up at home are pushed aside by the daily presence of fellow students – some familiar, some completely new. One moment, you’re alone - the next moment, you’re engulfed by a sea of faces.

The pandemonium dies down after a day or two, and the person become slowly accustomed to the constant pressure and stress associated with studying in general.

It even gets to the point that everytime one wakes up in the morning, there is a tiny built in voice in his or her head that automatically tells that person to go downstairs, have breakfast, pack his or her schoolbooks, and leave the house.

Such is the case with me and school.

But this routine is not new at all to my person. I’ve experienced it before.

Prior to coming to Canada, I was a sophomore in the Philippines. As such, I adapted the same routine mentioned above, with the only differences being the fact that I had to wake up at five every day in the morning, unlike here in Canada, where I wake up at seven, and the fact that school

began in June, not September. In a way, my former schedule was more hectic and demanding, because it called for the total commitment of one’s time and energy just to be present every day at school. Burning the midnight oil was an implied and unspoken obligation, if one wanted to achieve good grades.

The rules and requirements were rigid and unforgiving, but at the same time, they helped shaped the way many viewed education. I am certain those rules gave me a reason to strive hard and do well in my studies. Unfortunately, I have to admit that I wasn’t the most hardworking or attentive person back in my second year of high school. I would often find myself spending more time doing other things than looking at my notes or textbooks – a habit which I have learned to deal with since then.

For instance, I would do well and exceptional in only some subject areas, such as Basic Biology and Technical Writing, but not as well in Mathematics or Advanced Biology, because of the many distractions that enticed me away from the incomprehensive complex of studying my notes and doing practice questions in my textbooks.

I thought the whole routine was boring.

As duly expected from a complacent person, I would reap the consequences of the aforementioned practices in my report card. Thankfully, I didn’t fail by school standards (the passing mark was 85% for core subjects and 83% for minor subjects), in fact, I got marks in the 90s and upper 80s, but I knew I could’ve done better if I had set my priorities straight, planning to do my best in everything I could possibly manage to do.

When I moved to Canada, I was determined with all my heart not to repeat the same error that led me to neglect my studying habits. Regret clutched my heart like a broken record whenever I thought of the opportunities I had to get higher grades in the Philippines. It wasn’t that I knew I failed, it was because I knew I could’ve did better than what I had accomplished.

As soon as I and my family landed here in Canada in the year 2009, we settled in with my father’s childhood friend up in High Prairie, Alberta, where my parents enrolled me into a local junior high school.

They didn’t want me to spend 4 months without studying, since it was March at the time and it was still technically the middle of the school year. They figured out that I had

to do something productive.

That began my introduction to the Canadian school system. I was scared – in fact, I didn’t want to go to school until September.

It was like a conundrum of endless challenges for me to face. However, the choice wasn’t mine to make. It was my parents who made the decisions for me, and I only had to follow them.

Reluctantly, I decided to go to school, even if it was just for four months. I told myself, “,”It’s going to be okay,” repeatedly, while waiting for the school bus to arrive and pick me up outside in the chilly spring air. Moreover, it also crossed my mind that I’ve never actually had a school service when I went to school in the Philippines- my father always brought me by car.

The feeling that blinking each step of the way to overcome the fear gnawing in my brain gave me was unmistakable. I wasn’t accustomed to so many people, let alone non-Filipino people, but everyone virtually on the bus was a foreigner to me.

It was the most multicultural gathering I’ve encountered in my entire life. To my surprise, they were generally friendly people and asked me how I was doing and where I was from.

They were delighted to see me and were even more astounded that I , as a newly landed immigrant, could speak English fluently, something which I owe to my mother for training me at an early age, and the education system in the Philippines, where English is incorporated into almost every single subject. I even remember asking them why they didn’t have uniforms, then I figured out that public schools in Canada did not follow the same policy that schools in the Philippines required for their students, and that uniforms were not heard of, for the most part, because my new friends wrinkled their noses at the word ‘uniform’. Everybody dressed casually in their own fashion sense, and everyone was free to make their choices concerning their clothing.

When I think of school now, I think that sitting in a Canadian classroom compared to sitting in a Filipino classroom did not feel any different at all, putting aside the fact that I was surrounded with different people. In fact, I find the Canadian curriculum to be easy because of the advanced material we had learned in the Filipino curriculum at a very early age!

Nonetheless, I do have to admit, physical education classes are significantly different.

I never heard of sports like javelin, shot-put, or archery before – all I knew were sports like basketball, badminton, volleyball, and ping-pong. Since I am more of an artistic type of person, I normally did not enjoy physical education, but being in the various activities that the class participated in made me develop a fondness for it.

Until now, high school is a multicultural experience for me. Surviving education-wise is not an issue, for I have learned from my experiences in the Philippines that shaped me to become the person that I am. My bad study habits are long gone and I’ve come to realize the full worth of the rigorous system back at home.

I carry my Filipino values proudly knowing that without the education system’s strict methods, I certainly wouldn’t have gotten to have high marks here in Canada.

My standards are still set according to the standards I was accustomed to in the Philippines, and I know if I keep it that way, I can never go wrong.

I encourage all the Filipinos out there who are still pursuing their education to make the best out of it and to cherish everything they can get out of it.

Education is not a gamble; education is not something that can just be thrown away.

Education holds the key to a successful future. It decides whether one will become successful or if one will be unfruitful. Canada holds many opportunities for us in this realm, and we should hold onto those opportunities and seek to build a better future for us and for the generation that will follow after, so they can start a new beginning and learn from our example.

The Castillos 34th Wedding Anniversary

R

ey and Dolly Castillo with their only daughter Rhea Marie Castillo, celebrated their 34th wedding anniversary at the Calgary Sacred Heart church with a Pilipino mass on July 17, 2011. Blessings on the 3 couples celebrating their anniversary for July was conducted by Fr. Rudy Badiola. The other 2 couples were the Montemayors and Acostas.

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A simple reception followed after the mass at the church hall.

Wellwishers consisting of family members and friends joined in the fellowship. This is with the support of the coordinating organization, Filipino Catholic Society of the Diocese of Calgary and the church pastor Fr. Edmund F. Vargas."

October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Filipino Journal

Alberta

25

P-Noy meets Barako

Balitang Kutsero

by Perry

Diaz

PerryDiaz@gmail.com

llustration by Dave San Pedro

N

obody is sure if seating Philippine President Benigno “P-Noy” Aquino III during the Open Government Partnership conference next to U.S. President Barack Obama was planned or incidental. But it certainly gave P-Noy some importance.

Imagine, after Obama refused to meet with him formally three times in the past,

here’s P-Noy seated on the left hand side of the most powerful leader in the world.

My investigative reporter James Macaquecquec sent me the recorded conversation between the P-Noy and Obama. The conversation went as follows: Obama: Hey, President Aquino, it’s nice to see you seated next to me.

Aquino: The pleasure is mine, Mr. President.

Obama: Hey, let’s be on a firstname basis, okay? What shall I call you? Noynoy? Noy? Peenoy?

Aquino: P-Noy is fine with me.

Should I call you Barry, Barack or Barako?

Obama: Barako? Hey, there’s a nice ring to that! Barako is fine with me, Peeeeenoy.

P-Noy: Barako it is then, Barrrrrako.

Barako: Listen, we may have about five minutes to talk before the meeting starts. Isn’t that’s the same amount of time Chinese President Hu Jintao gave you when you went to Beijing last week?

P-Noy: Ahh… uhh… I think it was about five minutes and 30 seconds. But it was a meaningful meeting.

Barako: So I heard. You gave China the right to explore oil in the Spratlys for $1 billion. Is that true? Didn’t you know that oil exploration in the Spratlys could generate $50 billion a year in revenues?

P-Noy: Well… ahh… China would share the revenues with my country.

Barako: Is that in the agreement?

P-Noy: I’m not sure but I certainly would insist that we split the revenues.

Barako: You’d be lucky if China would give you $1 million a year, Peenoy.

P-Noy: If that’s all they’d give us, we’ll stop them!

Barako: How? P-Noy: We’ll send a naval armada to block them!

Barako: With what?

P-Noy: Well… well, we have a frigate, cutter, and 20 gunboats!

Barako: But, Peenoy, China has an aircraft carrier, submarines, jet fighters, and a two million strong army! And they’re building three nuclear aircraft carriers right now.

How can you stop them?

P-Noy: We have a mutual defense treaty with the U.S., haven’t we?

Barako: It’s going to be logistically hard for us to come to your defense ever since

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your Senate’s “Dirty Dozen” voted to kick our bases out of the Philippines.

The nearest American base is in Guam 2,000 miles away. And the Visiting Forces Agreement that we have is just that – visiting only, no bases.

P-Noy: Are you saying that you’re not going to honor our mutual defense treaty?

Barako: When we signed the treaty, we had bases and troops in the Philippines ready to defend your country at a moment’s notice.

Realistically, we can’t defend your country from 2,000 miles away. We have to have our forces on the ground, just like what we have in Iraq and Afghanistan.

P-Noy: What should we do then, Bara… err… Mr. President?

Barako: My advice to you is talk to your leaders in Congress.

Honestly, they can’t just sit on the fence and expect Uncle Sam to come to your country’s defense if you’re attacked. Mutual defense is all about mutual self-interest.

We got to find a common ground, amigo. Do you get my drift?

P-Noy: Hmm… Barako: Anyway, how’s your love life, my friend? I heard it’s down to zero? Hehehe…

P-Noy: Well, actually, it’s down

to sub-zero. My former girlfriend, Shalani, is going to get married in January.

Barako: What’s wrong with that?

She’s your ex, right?

P-Noy: Yeah, but you know how old flames are? They don’t go away easily.

Barako: It’s looks like you’re still in love with her, Peenoy. My advice is – follow your heart.

P-Noy: I can’t.

Barako: You can’t? Why can’t you?

P-Noy: Cuz my four sisters are against me marrying her! They all have their favorite woman for me to marry. But the problem is they can’t agree on one woman!

Barako: Hahaha…. Your four sisters… Hahaha…. (Stomping his feet on the floor) (The other people in the room were laughing, too. Barako called his aide) Barako: Hey, how come everybody’s laughing? What’s funny?

Barako’s Aide: Mr. President, the microphones are on. Everybody heard your conversation with President Aquino… including the 200 reporters covering this event.

P-Noy: Ay naku, naloko na naman ako!

26 Filipino Journal

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October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

Horoscope You continue in a cautious and self-protective mode for the first part of September. You have a hard time keeping your balance on September.

September is likely to be an especially busy month for you, Cancer, and while you can feel pulled in a number of directions, you manage to stay on top of things.

Work done in relative solitude is your best bet this month, dear Libra, although the last week of September brings more outgoing energy and a stronger desire to mingle. Friendships become especially lively.

You are expressing the more adventurous, fun-loving side of your personality in September, dear Capricorn, although in the last week of the month, you are ready to prove your worth.

Professional and public matters demand your attention.

It’s a highly creative, romantic, and fun September! Others are finding you especially appealing, and you are making time for recreation. Creative Bulls will find plenty of inspiration.

Recently, there has been much focus on the past in your love life, but September brings forward-looking energy to your relationships.

Emotions settle and September begins with a sense of calm. If you have been waiting for a loan, financial aid, mortgage, or other settlement, this is the month when you’re likely to get the good news. Money is a big focus this month, and you are in a good position to improve your lot in life.

Your social life animates this month, dear Scorpio, and your ability to persuade others is stronger than ever. On the 12th of the month can raise the temperature in a romance. Your career once again heats up.

Good energy for work is with you all month, dear Aquarius.

Your hard work pays off, but be sure to pace yourself so that you don’t tire yourself out. You’re in a better position to attract money to you, and good news about your finances.

September is likely to be a more straightforward month for you, dear Gemini. Financial matters clear up, and work matters move forward. An important culmination of a professional matter can occur around the 12th, when recognition may be forthcoming.

More clarity and a stronger sense of purpose are with you this month. Money matters tend to be strong, although there can be a need to get serious about your finances towards the end of September.

This is one of the more public and accountable periods of the year for you, dear Sagittarius. Fortunately, you are coming across in an especially charming light. New directions in your career are in store for you.

Relationships are revived in September. While a significant other can seem to have the upper hand this month, you’re not inclined to keep score. Instead, you are enjoying the improvements.

Palaisipan 6 1

PAHALANG 1 Ilubog sa tubig 7 Taas 11 Oyster: tagalong 12 Gaano 13 Ikalat 14 Habi 15 Tawagan sa preso 16 Kapartner ng butones 18 Hilo 20 Hintay 21 Pangkinis ng tabla 24 Gamit sa pagtiyak ng direksiyon

PABABA 26 Animo 27 Luksang kulay 29 Pangungusap 31 Iwas 35 Bilis 36 Taliwas ng maikli 38 Bahagi ng mukha 39 Pambansang dahon 40 Sagot ng di alam 41 Artistang Rose

1 Kauri ng pato 2 Gamit sa tagayan 3 Mataas na baraha 4 Paunawa 5 Upos ng sigarilyo 6 Maliit na komedyante 7 Biyuleta 8 Taginting 9 Karitela 10 Ininis 17 Pinuno ng palasyo 19 Kupit

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21 Kalakip 22 Dahong medisina 23 Pangkat 25 Uri ng hangin 28 Batugan 30 Huwag dalhin 32 Angkan 33 Tambang 34 Yari 37 Salitang pananong

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PAHALANG

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PABABA

1 Ilubog sa tubig 1 Kauri ng pato 7 Taas 2 Gamit sa tagayan 11 Oyster: tagalog 3 Mataas na baraha 12 Gaano 4 Paunawa 13 Ikalat 5 Upos ng sigarilyo Sudoku Puzzles are games of patience, numbers and genius! The 14 Habi 6 Maliit na komedyante satisfaction of sa solving 15 Tawagan preso a challenging7 Sudoku BiyuletaPuzzle is one of the 16 Kapartner ng butones any sudoku8 game Taginting greatest accomplishments player can experience.

18 Hilo 9 Karitela 20 Hintay 10 Ininis 21 Pangkinis ng tabla 17 Pinuno ng palasyo 24 Gamit sa pagtiyak 19 Kupit ng direksiyon 21 Kalakip 26 Animo 22 Dahong medisina 27 Luksang kulay 23 Pangkat 29 Pangungusap 25 Uri ng hangin 31 Iwas 28 Batugan 35 Bilis 30 Huwag dalhin 36 Taliwas ng maikli 32 Angkan 38 Bahagi ng mukha 33 Tambang 39 Pambansang dahon 34 Yari 40 Sagot ng di alam 37 Salitang pananong 41 Artistang Rose

Here is the puzzle. Good luck!

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

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October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

O

by Dolly Punsalan Castillo Maria Dolores Punsalan Castillo or fondly called Dolly is now a true Filipina-Canadian having lived in Toronto and Calgary for the past 35 years. She takes pride in straddling 2 rich cultures.

Her background in English LIterature, Linguistics, and Library Science came in handy in her various jobs in information management.

She worked mostly in the oilpatch of Calgary. Her passions are community service, volunteerism, feature writing, and public speaking.

Her community and church participation included both Pilipino groups and Canadian organizations.

She's happily married to Rey Castillo for the last 34 years. They have one daughter, Rhea Marie who's into environmental projects.

n this Thanksgiving weekend celebration, it’s but fitting not only to offer our thanks for whom and what, most importantly the why. This is not to put a damper on the festivity by delving on a sensitive aspect of it. Rather, it is to make it more meaningful by returning to the basics.

Yes, we’re grateful for so much to so many.

Foremost is our gift of healthy and full life to the Divine Providence. The mere acknowledgement and belief in a power beyond us is the gift of FAITH. Add to this the constant inherent attitude of GRATITUDE and you have an outlook that can hurdle any challenges that life deals.

How about when hardships and trials seem to parade in a dizzying fashion in your life? Do you think you even have the courage to thank or rather curse and despair? This is where the gift of HOPE comes in.

Inextricably, the pains and impatience get to you and life seems unbearable.

Easier said than done, yet take that last ounce of energy and perseverance and psych yourself that this is temporary.

The dawn of better fortune will come and life will normalize again. We

Filipino Journal

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Gratitude - A Spirit of Attitude have all experienced this phase of life in some form and intensity, yet we are still here. Isn’t this something…

SURVIVAL of the spirit.

Yes, we become nearer to our God when everything seems to be going wrong, when there seems to be no satisfactory solution. How about making it a habit to be near Him in the bad and good times? The good times roll in because of His generosity aided by the human being’s best efforts. It’s wisdom to think that when everything’s been said and done by us human beings, there’s the element beyond us that’s taken cared of by Divine Providence. Developing an attitude of gratitude takes you a long way, be it with your co-travellers on earth and God. For one, it enhances your goodwill feeling which is quite infectious. People around are uplifted when positive people spread the good cheer. From grateful spirits are generated great ideas that build on love, charity, service, and compassion.

The possibilities are endless when positive energy and aura touch people.

They bring out their hibernating gifts and strengths which sometimes they’re even unaware of.

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The flipside of the coin is when people exhibit the attitude of entitlement… “I did this so I deserve this”. It’s the expectation of matching every good gesture or deed with an instant reward. Although it’s a normal human expectation, it can be taken to the extremes by losing the spirit of ALTRUISM…. “doing what is right and good for its own sake with no strings attached”. Sadly, this attitude permeates a great number of people.

It’s not surprising to get a reaction of incredulity and disbelief when you do a good turn without expecting anything in return. Such a thankful attitude stems from the belief that Divine Providence will deal the fair hand.

Let’s enjoy the bounties that the season offers and share the generosities of nature – Human and Divine. As thankful believers, the glory is in the sharing and collaborating.

LOOKING FOR Office cleaning staff.

With cleaning experience. starting at $18.00 and up.

Please contact

De Vo (780) 885-6886

28 Filipino Journal

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October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

CEFA Recepient of Community Initiative Grant (CIP) Maddox Bernal celebrated his 2nd Birthday Maddox Bernal his 2nd Birthday with family and friends on Sept 24, 2011. His real birthday is September 23, 2011. Maddox is the son of Arne and Arlene Bernal and brother of Mariah.

The Council of Edmonton Filipino Associations (CEFA)received a grant of $20,900 from Community Initative Program (CIP). MLA Carl Benito & MLA Naresh Bardwaj handed in the check at the office of MLA Bhardwaj. CEFA would like to acknowlege the treasurer of CEFA Lulu Bernal, the Vice President Julie Kallal and the adviser Wilf Ladores for their efforts in obtaining this grant that will financially help the association in forthcoming projects.

Ofelia Santos Celebrates 65th Birthday

Ofelia Santos better known as Fely celebrated her 65th birthday at Derrick Golf and Winter Club last Sunday October 2, 2011. Fely is married to Arturo Santos, Sr. and has 3 siblings, Ailynn, Arturo Jr. and Allan.

L-R Totie Mendoza, Terry Bass, Hermie Angeles, MLA Gene Zwozdesky, Fely Santos & Estrella Mendpza

Hon. Gene Zwozdesky presented Fely with a plaque of recognition for her valuable service to the community as an employee of the Provincial Government

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October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

by Gem & Lita Anis

A

OASIS OF THE SEAS a "floating nation"

s cruisers of the "Oasis of the Seas" sailing through the blue waters of the Caribbean on warm days of April we became new citizens of a floating nation at sea.

The Oasis of the Seas with its maiden voyage on 5 December 2009 is the world's largest cruise ship setting a new record of carrying over 6,000 passengers and a crew of 2,165.

Embarking at the home port of Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, and calling at Nassau, Bahamas, Charlotte Amalie,

Royal Promenade

St. Thomas and Philipsburg, St. Maarten, the Oasis 7-night cruise could be your experience of a lifetime whether this is your first time sailing or you're an experienced cruiser.

Never seen before on any cruise ship are the themed areas called "neighbourhoods" each of which is diverse and possesses its own unique personality.

The first-ever Boardwalk and Central Park at Sea are awesome.

Our favourite is the Central Park of lush tropical greenery (with over 12,000 plants and 56 trees).

Located at the centre of the ship, the park opens to the sky and because of its foliage, boutiques, restaurants, bars, and art gallery we had reasons to hang out there.

The park also includes access to an amazing bar called "Tidnewse Bar" which can be raised or lowered to three separate levels.

The Boardwalk features a carousel, more restaurants, shops, two 43 foot-high rock-climbing walls, and a tatoo parlour. Its outdoor Aqua Theatre, with the "Oasis of Dreams Aqua Show", hosts the ship's largest freshwater pool.

The Royal Promenade shopping mall-at-sea is complete with a barber shop, a pub, boutiques, pizzeria, and giant arched lights.

Entertainment-wise the Oasis offers passengers captivating theatrical productions - "Hairspray" and "Come Fly With Me" at the Opal Theatre, and "Frozen in Time" ice show. The ship also offers multiple night clubs and a karaoke club. The comedy club is always full every night.

With so many things to do and see while on board you may not want to waste any single moment of your stay at sea. Always remember that the "best part about traveling is being able to do things you can't do back home".

Try your luck at the Casino Royal, the largest and most sophisticated casino at sea. Or play bingo. Or just sit back and relax on a chaise lounge on the top deck. Or pamper yourself with a massage at the Vitality-at-Sea Spa. Or do a workout at the Fitness Centre. Or jog around the ship (to travel 1 mile you have to walk 2.4 laps). Or enjoy wine testing. Or take a dip in any of the 5 swimming pools. Or enjoy the calypso music street party. Or boogie down, do the hustle and shake your booty at the 70's disco.

For a little adventure, try soaring from one end of the ship to the other on the first "zip line"

Central Park

Gem & Lita with the Oasis of the Seas

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at sea, a thrilling 82 foot-ride in the sports zone. Or try climbing the rock-climbing walls. Or surfing the big flowrider. Or skating at Studio B ice-skating rink. If you get bored it's your own fault.

The mini-golf course

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For children and teens visit the Youth Zone for science and computer gaming. The Oasis has nurseries for infants and toddlers (6 months and older).

See you at the Oasis!

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October 2011

October 2011

The Pulse of the Filipino Community

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October 2011