Ang Peryodiko News Paper December 1st to December 15th Issue.

VOLUME XII NO. 23 December 1-15, 2014 WINNIPEG, MANITOBA, CANADA

The Newspaper

A professional diver dressed as Santa Claus gestures at a visitor inside a giant aquarium as part of celebrations for Christmas at the Manila Ocean Park.

Potential threat (Romeo Ranoco/Reuters photo)

Centcom: NPA may sow violence during Pope’s visit

“In our AOR (area of responsibility), we still have the NPA. That is the group we’re looking into that may sow violence...

We hope they will not, because [we are talking about] the Pope.

There’s going to be a big prob-

lem if they sow violence,” said Centcom spokesman Lt. Cmdr.

Jim Alagao.

Nonetheless, Alagao said the military is prepared and has enough forces to secure the highest leader of the Catholic

angperyodiko

Church.

“The 8th Infantry Division is there, it has many forces [and] that we may no longer need to pour in additional forces…

There are three brigades under it…I think that will be enough already,” Alagao said.

He said he is not yet sure of the specific number of troops that will be dispatched in Cebu and Leyte as plans are still being finalized. Two battalions who just came back from their peacekeeping missions in Golan Heights and Haiti will secure the Pope in Manila.

“We are having a series of meetings with regard to the visit of the Pope…We started it already and we are finalizing it as 2015 approaches,” he said.

Intelligence officials said there is no threat assessed yet against Pope Francis similar to the assassination attempt against Pope John Paul II when he visited Manila in 1995.

The plot, which involved al Qaeda-linked terrorist Ramzi Yousef, was discovered after a fire at the Doña Jose Apartments in Manila. abs-cbnnews

@ang_peryodiko

PH scores higher in 4 of 6 governance

indicators - WB MANILA, Philippines - The Philippines scored higher in four out of six indicators in the latest Worldwide Governance Indicators (WGI), according to a World Bank report that measures the quality of governance across 200 economies.

“The country’s achievement in the area of governance complements its gains in the economic front – including maintenance of within-target inflation and stability in the financial system,” Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas governor Amando Tetangco Jr. said.

“These accomplishments will help attain the goal of a sustainable and a more inclu

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ANILA - The Central Command (Centcom) of the Philippine military said the New People’s Army (NPA) may be a potential threat during the visit of Pope Francis in Cebu and Leyte.

Former Sinulog queen wins Miss Earth

2014

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Senate starts Malampaya scam probe MANILA (Dec. 1) - The Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on Monday began its inquiry into the alleged embezzlement of the Malampaya fund.

The first hearing focused on the findings of a Commission on Audit (COA) report on the P900-million Malampaya fund released to the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) that ended up in 12 dubious non-government organizations (NGOs) in 2009.

“What we know now from all the revelations in the past year, lahat po ng 12 na ito ay linked po kay Mrs. Napoles,” COA chairperson Grace Pulido Tan told Sen. JV Ejercito during the televised hearing.

Tan was referring to detained businesswoman Janet Lim Napoles, the alleged pork barrel scam mastermind who also purportedly got hold of around P900 million of the Malampaya fund.

Presenting the findings of the COA report, Tan explained that the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) released the P900 million to the DAR because 97 mayors were requesting for financial assistance to farmers affected by Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng.

But even before the DAR’s fund request was approved by the DBM, Tan said the DAR already entered into various memoranda of agreements (MOAs) with the 12 NGOs. “Maliwanag po yung paglabag sa P.D. 1445, that is

the State Auditing Code of the Philippines, prohibiting any government agency from entering into a contract unless funds have been made available and authorized or appropriated for the purpose,” Tan said.

The COA chief said the MOAs with the 12 NGOs were split into 97. This means each local government unit had one contract worth not more than P10 million, the upper limit of the signing authority of the DAR undersecretary.

Tan believes that the splitting of the contract was intentional.

“Ang sinasabi namin dito, sinadya na i-split ‘yung mga proyekto na ‘yon para hindi tumaas. Kasi ‘pag tumaas sa P10 [million], [DAR] Secretary ang kailangang pumirma,” she said.

‘Highly irregular’

According to the COA report, the existence of the 12 NGOs is questionable and their implementation of the 97 projects costing P900 million is “highly irregular” due to various reasons.

For one, the 12 NGOs turned out to be unknown and cannot be located at their given addresses or gave non-existent addresses or those traced to vacant lots or residential houses in depressed areas. None of the NGOs also confirmed their transactions with the DAR. And while the NGOs are

located in different places, they have common accountants and notaries public. All documents purportedly signed by the 97

city and municipal mayors were all notarized by only three notaries public.

The NGOs also seem to be

interrelated as checks issued to two of them were deposited in the same bank accounts.

(Philstar)

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Fewer Filipino youths smoke, drink; switch to online games MANILA, Philippines - Online games and other vices are luring young Filipinos away from smoking and drinking alcohol, a recent study showed.

According to the PhilCare Wellness Index, Filipinos aged 29 and below are smoking and drinking alcohol less than older Filipinos.

Younger Filipinos are the most “behaved” compared to the older ones, consuming only 5.9 sticks per day and 6.57 units of alcohol per week.

On the average, Filipinos consume 10.13 sticks per day and 6.36 units of alcohol per week.

Filipinos in their 30s registered above the national mean for smoking and alcohol intake as they consume an average of 10.29 sticks per day and 6.51 units of alcohol per week.

In the case of Filipinos aged 40 to 49, smoking and consuming alcohol are more prevalent as they consume an average of 10.35 sticks per day and 6.62 units of alcohol per week.

Dr. Gerard Supangan, PhilCare resident pulmonologist, said the younger generation seemed to have found other vices like online games, which dissuaded them from smoking and drinking alcohol.

“Perhaps, vices like smoking and drinking alcohol have become too expensive for younger Filipino adults. They are now more responsible with regard to their activities,” he added.

Supangan also said the younger people’s sense of practicality seems to have encouraged them to minimize their smoking and drinking. They have learned to preoccupy themselves with other activities, lessening the need for them to smoke and drink alcohol.

He noted that the findings of the study indicate that the government’s campaign against smoking and drinking alcohol is working, but the lower consumption of cigarettes and alcohol among younger Filipinos should not mean that efforts to dissuade them from vices should also cease.

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Cyclone may enter country this week MANILA (Dec. 1) - State meteorologists are keeping a close eye on a developing storm off the Pacific Ocean that could enter the Philippine area of responsibility (PAR) later this week.

Jori Loiz, senior weather forecaster of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), said the looming cyclone was located some 1,500 kilometers east of the PAR as of yesterday afternoon.

He warned the developing weather disturbance is likely to reach the typhoon category as it hovers over the Pacific Ocean in the next few days.

Loiz told The STAR of two scenarios for the cyclone. The most likely is that the storm could intensify further but will veer north towards Japan. The second scenario is the cyclone will intensity into a typhoon

and enter the PAR on Friday.

“The movement of the developing cyclone will depend on the high-pressure area northeast of the Philippines,” Loiz said, noting that the HPA has not moved in the past days.

“The most possible scenario is it will enter the PAR but will recurve toward east of Japan…

But if the HPA will not move, the cyclone, which could be a strong one, could make landfall in the Philippines,” he added.

He noted that the location of the looming cyclone is also the place where Super Typhoon Yolanda formed last year.

“Hopefully, the HPA will move, because we expect this to be really strong. It is still far and could gain more strength while over the sea,” Loiz said.

He said one or two cyclones are likely to enter the Philippines this month, warning that cyclones during this time of the year usually make landfall.

The usual track of the cyclones during the latter part of the year is Visayas and Mindanao.

On Nov. 8 last year, Yolanda slammed the Visayas, leaving more than 6,000 people dead and 1,700 missing. Strong storms Pablo and Sendong hit Mindanao in December.

Meanwhile, Loiz said fair weather is expected in most parts of the country in the next three days, apart from isolated rain showers and thunderstorms.

He said a low-pressure area (LPA) that dumped rains in Mindanao and parts of Visayas and Luzon over the weekend was spotted at 75 km west southwest of Romblon, Romblon as of 10 a.m. yesterday.

The LPA was likely to dissipate or continue to cross Southern Luzon towards the West Philippine Sea, where it could regain strength, he said.

Philstar

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Sayyaf leader arrested at NAIA MANILA (Dec. 1) - A suspected Abu Sayyaf leader has been arrested at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), officials said yesterday.

Chief Superintendent Fernando Mendez, director of the Intelligence Group (IG) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) said Ustadz Burhan Malban Mundos, alias Burhan Mundos, was arrested on Nov. 20 after arriving from Zamboanga City.

Mundos was tagged by police and military intelligence as the solicitor of foreign funds and armaments for the Abu Sayyaf.

Mendez clarified Mundos went to Metro Manila to attend

a hearing of one of his bombing cases in Taguig City, not to continue soliciting funds for the Abu Sayyaf from foreign sources.

Senior Superintendent Ronald Lee, head of the PNP-IG’s Counter-Intelligence Division, said Mundos kept silent on his role in the Abu Sayyaf.

“He ignored questions thrown at him by our anti-terrorist investigators,” Lee said.

A local official said the Abu Sayyaf is receiving funds from abroad to support its operation in Basilan.

Ungkaya Pukan, Basilan Vice Mayor Joel Maturan said the Abu Sayyaf group was monitored recruiting new members

‘PNoy not downplaying ISIS threat’

MANILA (Dec. 1) - President Aquino is not downplaying the threats posed by the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), Malacañang said yesterday as it defended the government’s anti-terrorism efforts.

“I think anyone who would go back and review the pronouncements of the President on ISIS would not come to the conclusion that the President is downplaying the situation….we know that it’s a serious concern and we continue to act,” deputy presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said over radio dzRB. “Just because our efforts are not made publicly known, it does not mean that they do not exist... a large part of it is not shared publicly because that’s transmitting to the other side what you intend to do,” she added.

The ISIS Study Group, a website supposedly maintained by retired US military men, said Aquino, like US President

Barack Obama, downplayed the threat posed by the ISIS. “In many ways, he’s (Aquino) the Southeast Asia equivalent of our own President Obama, who shares Aquino’s naive view of the world – which isn’t a good thing,” the group said.

“Aquino, like Obama, is downplaying the threat despite the growing evidence that IS (Islamic State) represents a global problem for every civilized nation in the world. This is due to his insistence on accomplishing his signature policy of peace in the Bangsamoro,” it added.

Valte said the government is working not only to address the threat of ISIS, but also to fight other terrorist groups and maintain peace in Mindanao.

She said the Armed Forces of the Philippines had been working with the Moro Islamic Liberation Front and local leaders to fight terrorism. Aurea Calica/Philstar

and promising allowances up to P15,000 each.

“We heard this information that they are receiving financial support from abroad and we are verifying the information,”

Maturan said.

Maturan doubted reports that the Abu Sayyaf used talk of foreign support to lure new members.

He believes the bandit group

is actually sourcing its funds from the ransom paid by people its members kidnapped and the extortion money paid by local officials, business owners and teachers. Philstar/Roel Pareño

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PNP steps up visibility, patrol operations as Christmas nears MANILA, Philippines - The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Monday said it has increased visibility and mobile patrol operations with the expected influx of holiday shoppers.

PNP Director Ricardo Marquez, the PNP Director for Operations (DO), said police presence will be intensified through increased foot and mobile patrol operations and deployment of Route Safety Marshalls in areas and times where and when they are most needed. Marquez said Police Assistance Hubs will also be established in places of convergence.

He said that even as preemptive security operations are underway, the PNP will continue to intensify the campaign against loose firearms, illegal discharge of firearms, and campaign against criminal gangs and personalities supported by the aggressive implementation

of Oplan “Bakal” and Oplan “Sita”.

The PNP will also strictly implement Republic Act 7183 or the Illegal Manufacture and Sale of Firecrackers and Pyrotechnics law.

Marquez said that guidelines and standard procedures have been disseminated to all PNP units tasked to secure the Pope during his State Visit and Apostolic Journey.

Earlier, the PNP said it will provide operational support to the Presidential Security Group and close-in security services to the Pope’s entourage.

Security coverage operations in the different venues of engagement of the Pope and public safety assistance for peace and order maintenance and police services for crowd control, vehicular/pedestrian traffic direction, route parking and venue security will also be available on the day of the event. -Philstar

NEDA exec slapped with P20K fine for sex raps

MANILA, Philippines - The Sandiganbayan slapped a P20,000 fine on a National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) ranking official in Cebu City for sexually harassing a subordinate for three years.

In a 30-page decision penned

by Associate Justice Alexander Gesmundo, the anti-graft court convicted NEDA Regional Director Jose Romeo Escandor for violation of Republic Act 7877 or the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act. The tribunal gave credence

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sive growth,” he added.

In the 2013 WGI report, the Philippines improved its scores under the “voice and accountability,” “political stability and absence of violence,” “rule of law,” and “control of corruption” indicators.

The country’s ranking climbed to 47.87 in the latest report from 46.92 in the previous one under “voice and accountability,” which reflects how the citizens are able to participate in choosing their government, the freedom of expression, the freedom of association and a free media.

The rank ranges from 0 to 100, with 100 as the highest.

Under “political stability and absence of violence,” the Philippines also fared better at a ranking of 16.59 from the previous year’s 14.22. The country’s ranking also went up to 43.54 for “control of corruption” from 33.49.

At the same time, the country saw an improved ranking of 41.71 from last year’s 36.49 for “rule of law,” which shows the public’s trust and confidence in the law, particularly in contract enforcement, property rights, the police, and the courts.

to the testimony of the complainant, Escandor’s division chief, who testified that the NEDA executive committed a series of specific acts of sexual harassment such as holding her hands while attending meetings and unwanted sexual advances like kissing her on the cheek.

The complainant also said that Escandor had been sending inappropriate text messages such as “I missed you,” and making phone calls telling her that he wanted to have sexual relations with her.

The court ruled that such acts resulted to an intimidating, hostile, or offensive environment for the complainant.

“Like in rape, acts of sexual harassment are usually committed in a private place or done clandestinely where only the perpetrator and the victim are present... an accused may be convicted of sexual harassment based solely on the testimony of the victim, as long as she is competent and credible,” the court said. -Philstar

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What’s the BUZZ?

www.angperyodiko.ca December 1-15, 2014

Entertainment

A complete Christmas package from

Jose Mari Chan

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s I write this, Jose Mari Chan’s Going Home to Christmas is on my CD player and the songs are evoking mixed feelings in me — feelings of joy, of sadness, of longing, of nostalgia, of reconciliation, of forgiving, of every thing — as did his multi-multi-platinum Christmas In Our Hear ts which is the biggestselling Christmas album in Philippine recording history.

The album, dedicated to Joe’s late father Tony Chan, is almost a one-man job with Joe himself writing the music of

ricky Lo

17 of the 20 songs on it and collaborating on the lyrics of some and, for the first time in his 45-year checkered and award-studded career, singing a Tagalog song, Pagdating ng Pasko, without any trace of Ilonggo accent (oops! that’s a joke!), lyrics by Jimmy Santiago with whom Joe has collaborated on the Metropop finalist Hahanapin Ko, interpreted with infectious poignancy by Anthony Castelo at his prime.

Other ar tists who worked with Joe on the album wer e Homer Flores, Louie Ocampo, Rina Villena-Osorio, Trina Belamide, Freddie Santos, Joel Trinidad, Teenee Chan, Ogie Alcasid, Loren Steele, Shiela Valderrama, Hanna Flores, Lilibeth Tan, Hail Mary The Queen Choir and Psalm 47, plus the ABS-CBN Orchestra wi th Valderrama on That Time Of The

funfare Canada

Going Home To Christmas has a song for every member of the family — for the elderly and for the young, and even about a young lady longing for a loved one and an OFW aching to spend Christmas at home.

Year (arranged by Gerard Salonga) and Joe and wife Maryann Ansaldo’s children Michael Joe, Franco and Liza Chan-Palparan, and the Chan granddaughter Ramona Isabel Bunag Chan.

A complete Christmas package, Going Home To Christmas has a song for every member of the family — and beyond. Listen to the lyrics and the melody and you will see how complete the album is. There’s a gif t of song for everyone of all ages, a gif t that keeps on giving year af ter year af ter year, just like the 24year-old Christmas In Our Hear ts that has become a Philippine Yuletide classic. Going Home is a gem of a sequel.

The carrier single (Going Home) is about an OFW longing to spend Christmas with his family: I’m tired and weary, feelin’ all alone/I wonder where the months have flown/I need the warm embrace of cool December/And all the Love that I have known.

And there’s Christmas Anyway, about the daughter of an OFW wishing to have her father home on Christmas: We don’t need the tinsel or the Tree/All I need right now is simply you and me/We don’t need holly/Or reindeer or a sleigh/When you’re here, it’s Christmas anyway.

A complete Christmas package, Going Home To Christmas has a song for every member of the family — and beyond.

Joe Mari with children (from left) Franco, Jose Antonio, Liza Chan-Palparan and Michael during the 2012 launch of the album — From Jose Mari Chan’s Facebook

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MANILA (Dec. 1) - Everyone is in for a musical surprise as Kathryn Bernardo will release her self-titled debut album online on Nov. 30 and in all record bars on Dec. 5. It’s a collection of original and revival tunes that warm the heart and make one feel young — nakakabata as many put it in the vernacular. The Teen Queen deserves a listen; this turn in her career makes Kathryn the latest singing sweetheart.

She and Teen King, Daniel Padilla, could be the local recording scene’s singing couple.

“There’s no particular theme,” replied Kathryn when

asked about a particular idea or mood that connects all the songs in the album. “The themes are varied. When you listen to the songs, what you’ll notice is they are easy listening.”

This is a perfect match to Kathryn’s young, happy and sweet personality, which is also reflective in her renditions. So on a chill-out day, Kathryn can provide one the right tracks and background.

“It just started lately,” says Kathryn of her newfound interest. “During the recording sessions, I realized that it was fun doing an album. I was excited because I had done things for the first time like shooting an MTV and recording songs. I’m happy because I tried new things. I think (the music is) very young, very sweet, very relaxing. Pwede siyang pang-chill-out. I hope teenagers would like it and they can sing along with the songs (wherever they are).”

The album boasts of five original songs, which artists like Jungee Marcelo and Marion Aunor penned for Kathryn, who had fun interpreting their songs. One of the interesting cuts is Na Sa ’Yo Din Pala, Kathryn’s response to Daniel’s signature song Na Sa ’Yo Na Ang Lahat.

“The lyrics answer the lines of his song (Na Sa ’Yo Na Ang Lahat).

The beat is almost the same,” she

Kathryn’ s feel-good musical surprise

says. “The song is very catchy.

(Daniel is very) happy and I told him to buy many copies. He’s very supportive.” In their spare time, the KathNiel tandem would listen to the music of Michael Bublé and their favorite song is Grow Old With You. Other songs listeners can enjoy are Ikaw Na Nga Yata; K Tnx Bye; Temporary Déjà Vu; carrier single You Don’t Know Me; Sharon Cuneta’s Mr. DJ; Cris Villongco’s Crush ng Bayan; and Heart Evangelista’s Love Has Come My Way. How did Kathryn prepare for this recording venture? She said she had singing sessions with Annie Quintos and attended lessons for her stints in ASAP and appear-

ances in mall shows.

So what’s next for Kathryn? Is performing at Smart Araneta or writing songs already in the pipeline?

“I don’t know,” Kathryn says. “But if I will be given the chance, why not (take it) and for as long as it is for the delight of my supporters. (I’m game) if I will be given enough time to prepare and enhance myself for it. I can try when I have familiarized myself with the music industry.” She also expresses her interest in collaborating with artists like Gary Valenciano and Angeline Quinto, from whom she can learn vocal and performing techniques.

Since singing is a new territory for her, Kathryn feels the pressure of doing good. “Even in other projects that I do, na kakasimula lang, nakaka-pressure. It challenges me though. Feeling ko naman na basta gusto mo yung ginagawa mo, maganda naman ang kalalabasan nito,” she says. “You just need to train. You have to go out of your comfort zone.” Philstar

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A

NOTHER winter has come and is here to stay.

We had brought out our parkas, boots, and long underwear that were tucked away during the summer months.

Well, we can all agree that Christmas will not be the same without snow.Unique snowflakes we see on our windshield and windows are beautiful.

Although snow falls are nice, it leaves us Winnipeggers with obstacles we have to overcome daily. Slippery roads and sidewalks are dangerous especially after a fresh snowfall.Simple walking becomes difficult and then there’s driving.

We have some tips for you for walking and driving this winter to avoid a fall or motor vehicle accidents. First, let’s talk about walking.

Walking during winter can be a tricky, if not dangerous proposition. Slips can lead to pulls, tears, and spasms while falls can cause fractures, breaks, hernias and a host of other ailments.

Analyze the way you walk right now. You’ll realize right away that, in ideal conditions, we are used to walking with our heels striking first. This heel strike first is what leads to most slips and falls on ice. The reason is that it creates an imbalance of weight and changes our center of gravity, not to mention the fact that we remove 90% of our foot surface on every step we take forward.

Here’s a few tips that might help prevent a fall this winter.

1. Walk like a penguin - If you shift your center-ofgravity over your front facing foot instead of splitting it evenly between your feet, you can more easily walk across icy surfaces without falling quite so much.

Penguins have figured this out, as have many who live in areas covered by ice for weeks each year.

2. Artificial Treads - Another way to avoid slipping in icy conditions is to use a commercial

product such as YakTrax that attach to your shoes. Think of them like winter tires for your feet.

3. Take your time - The more we rush, the less likely we are to take care and focus on sound walking mechanics. Allow yourself a few extra minutes during the morning commute or lunch hour walk and take it a bit slower.

4. Look where you walk - It seems basic, but in today’s technological age, our attention is drawn to our wristwatch, cellphone, tablet or elsewhere.

Looking where we walk can alert us on unsafe conditions such as changes in elevation, surface conditions and ice buildup in our path. Much like driving, keeping your eyes on the path before you will help prevent an embarrassing and painful experience.

If you had fallen, here are steps you can take to help your body heal.

1. If you had fallen on any parts of your body, apply cold compress to the area for 10-15 minutes to help decrease swelling and to help decrease pain for two days.

2. If you fell on a bony part

of your body (wrists, knee, elbow, hip), understand that the pain might be there for a while as you might have bruised your bone. Bone bruise takes longer to heal than muscle bruise. Cold compress will still help in this situation.Just remember that depending on the severity of the trauma to the body, you can have mild to moderate muscle strain (pulled muscle) or muscle contusion (bruising) or bone contusion (bruising on the bone), the healing time might take 3-4 weeks or longer.

3. If you have been icing and taking pain meds and your pain is still persists for 2-3 weeks or initially, nothing is feeling right, be sure to see a doctor and get an x-ray to rule out fracture.

What you don’t want is to move your limbs around and applying heat on a fractured area. If you think you broke something, limit your movements to avoid further injury and see a doctor immediately.

Driving during winter for some people can be traumatizing. We have clients we treat that suffered whiplash, muscle strain, joint problems and fractures due to motor vehicle accidents. These

tips are to help prevent motor vehicle accidents but as much as we are cautious, there are things that we cannot control.

However, here are a few tips that we can control that might prevent MVAs. 1. Give one car length between you and the car in front.

2. Cautiously drive and pay attention to the cars around you especially on the stop lights and stop signs.

3. Step on the brake early to avoid crashing into a car ahead or the curb.

4. It is a good idea to get winter tires as it will help driving

much easier as you accelerate and decelerate.

If the unfortunate thing happens, if you feel muscle ache, had fallen, experienced a whiplash from a motor vehicle accident, contact us for Athletic Therapy appointment at (204999-0933) to assess your injury especially if you have an injury claim through MPI. We bill MPI directly.

We hope we have helped you take caution with walking and driving this winter. Please if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us via email at info@insahyu.com

Quote of the day: “Life is better with a cup of hot chocolate” – Insahyu Training & Therapy Written by: Melanie Talastas-Soriano CAT(C), Athletic Therapist, CFT, Fitness Trainer Ricardo Martinez, Certified Personal Trainer at Insahyu Training & Therapy Services we offer at Insahyu Training & Therapy: 250 Saulteaux Location Athletic Therapy Acupuncture Massage Therapy Kinesio-tape Athletic Taping Custom Fitted Orthotics Personal Training Group fitness classes

636 Notre Dame Location Athletic Therapy Acupuncture Massage Therapy Kinesio-taping Athletic taping Custom Fitted Orthotics Rehab programs Core strengthening program

For more information, visit our website at www.insahyu.com We are located at 250 Saulteaux Crescent and 636 Notre Dame Avenue.

We direct bill to MPI, WCB and Manitoba Blue Cross.

Call 204-999-0933 to book your appointment today!!!

Take a STAND www.angperyodiko.ca December 1-15, 2014

Opinion

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Ang Peryodiko

There are some good changes, but … Editorial

I have been dealing with immigration for over 20 years and I am very concerned about all the changes that have been made to what I believe is a valuable program. Former Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau introduced the “Live-in Caregiver Program” years ago and since that time, tens of thousands of families in Canada have directly benefitted by it, not to mention the thousands of workers, too.

In Manitoba alone, there have been hundreds of care providers (vast majority from the Philippines) that are here.

The program was brought into existence because of the large demand for care providers that would be prepared to live in the homes of their employers. There was a time when you could have a foreign worker under this program processed within three months. Today, some have to wait two years

I know there is a need for changes. Back in August I met with a group of live-in care givers at my office and without a doubt, their number one concern was the delays and problems they were experiencing in getting their papers processed to become permanent residents.

Often their eyes would well up as the care givers related how they missed their children or spouses.

I often meet with constituents who are trying to get a care provider for their own family

Straight up but are frustrated because of the amount of time it takes to process their applications. Every year, I meet with care givers who have been exploited for their labour or are even abused in some manner.

In past issues of Ang Peryodiko, I wrote about the need for changes. To me, the top three changes are: faster processing times for care givers that have already qualified to receive their permanent resident status, speeding up the process of acquiring a care provider, and preventing the exploitation of live-in care givers.

The good news is that some of the changes that were announced will deal with those three concerns in some degree lamoureux, 20

A lot isn’t going well for the American people

he recent riots in Ferguson, Missouri and the spontaneous protests across the United States – spurred by a grand jury’s decision not to indict a white police officer who fatally shot an unarmed black teenager in Ferguson – are among the many things telling us that not all is going well for the American people.

The widespread civil unrest stems, at the very least, from frustration over perceived unfairness in the handling of the case: the prosecutor did not recommend an indictment. Worse, it confirms the underlying feeling among the black population that racial discrimination, or white racism, is still pervasive under Barack Obama, the first African-American president.

Note: The grand jury consisted of 9 white and 3 black members. They met weekly in

or more.

mp kevin lamoureux

Yes, more than 40 years after the civil rights movement shook both the US political establishment and social institutions, white racism continues to afflict multiracial America.

AT GROUND LEVEL

secret over three months to hear testimonies – including that of the police officer-suspect, without cross-examination. He reportedly testified that he was terrified because the victim had looked “like a demon.”

multiracial America. A Huffington Post poll of 1,000 adults is telling: only 22% of whites believed that the policeman was at fault in the Ferguson shooting, as against 62% of AfricanAmericans who thought so.

Yes, more than 40 years after the civil rights movement shook both the US political establishment and social institutions, white racism continues to afflict

That’s not all. The feeling of racial discrimination runs deep vis-à-vis the yawning economic and social inequality spawned

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Hero of the masses

he nation marked the 151st birth anniversary (Nov. 30) of the hero of the masses, Andres Bonifacio, at the end of a month dedicated to promoting reading. Historians say that the leader of the Philippine revolution, whose limited financial means did not allow him to obtain a college degree, made up for the lack through voracious reading.

Apart from the Holy Bible and Jose Rizal’s novels that inspired the revolution, El Filibusterismo and Noli Me Tangere, Bonifacio read books on law and medicine, the history of the French revolution, Victor Hugo’s Les Miserables, and Lives of the Presidents of the United States.

The ideas fueled Bonifacio’s yearning for independence from colonial rulers. He dared to take up arms – an uprising that unfortunately was marred by a power struggle between the two revolutionary factions, culminating in the execution of Bonifacio and his brother on orders of his rival Emilio Aguinaldo.

In the years before becoming a Katipunero, Bonifacio worked on self-improvement, sustaining himself and his siblings by taking on various types of jobs and selling walking canes and paper fans.

Orphaned at an early age, their efforts to survive are not uncommon in these islands. Poverty continues to keep many Filipinos out of school even if basic education is free. In many households, the eldest child drops out of school early to find work and finance the education of siblings, especially the ones who perform best academically.

Satur C. Ocampo

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In past issues of Ang Peryodiko, I wrote about the need for changes. To me, the top three changes are: faster processing times for care givers that have already qualified to receive their permanent resident status, speeding up the process of acquiring a care provider, and preventing the exploitation of live-in care givers.

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he government has made big changes to Canada’s “Live-in Caregiver Program” including changing the name of the program itself.

Effective December 1, the new program will be called “Caregiver Program” and that is because there will no longer be a live-in requirement.

Even during the Spanish colonial period, quality education was a luxury beyond the reach of millions of Filipinos. They managed to progress beyond functional literacy and obtain higher education or its equivalent in competency mainly on their own efforts, and occasionally through the kindness of moneyed benefactors.

Rizal’s family was wealthy enough to send him abroad for formal schooling. But many more Filipinos were like Bonifacio who lacked the means to obtain a college degree right in their own country. Today there are still a significant number of Filipinos who have not progressed beyond functional literacy. Not all of them have Bonifacio’s passion for reading and self-education.

The limited formal education didn’t stop Bonifacio from writing that there is no greater love than what is given to one’s country – and leading the masses in a revolution. With formal education and more opportunities, Bonifacio could have soared to even greater heights. Millions of Filipinos should not be deprived of those opportunities. (Philstar)

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JONATHAN C. MONTEMAYOR

Columnists:

MP KEVIN LAMOUREUX, PASTOR FRED SEBASTIAN, Rev. Ruel Calitis Camia, PASTOR JUNIE JOSUE and TONY SANCHEZ

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TESS AVISO NEWTON, GEMMA DALAYOAN, Mel Talastas Soriano, Fernando Carranza, and Jeff tumbokon

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Opinion

Ang peryodiko

December 1-15, 2014

n www.angperyodiko.ca

Ang Kapangyarihan ng Kagandahang Loob

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i Louis Zamperini ay isang kilalang Olympian noong magpasimula ang ikalawang digmaang pandaigdig at naging kabahagi siya ng airforce na nakipaglaban sa mga hapon sa South Pacific. Sumikat syang muli noong dekada 90 nang dahil sa kanyang sinulat na libro na may pamagat na Unbroken. Kiniwento niya noong nagcrash ang kanyang eroplano sa dagat at nagsurvive na nakasakay sa life raft sa laot para mahuli lamang at pahirapan ng kaaway.

Pagkalaya ay naging lasenggo siya at napuno ng galit at sama ng loob sa mga umapi sa kanya sa kulungan. Ngunit pagkatapos na siya ay magbagong buhay ng magsuko ng buhay kay Hesus, bumalik sya ng Japan para patawarin ang mga gwardya ng kampo kung saan siya ay nakulong. Binisita niya ang Sugamo prison sa Tokyo kung saan nakakulong ang mga criminal ng giyera na gumawa ng mga matitinding krimen.

Binahagi niya ang pagbabagong buhay na naranasan niya nang dahil sa pagibig ni Kristo at pinangaral niya

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hristmas i s j u s t around the corner and the Yolanda survivors have yet to recover, more than a year after the tragedy that turned their lives upside down. According to the thinktank group IBON Foundation, there are still 1.3 million people that are homeless, finding shelter in evacuation centers, tents, bunkhouses and other makeshift dwelling. During the public hearing conducted last Thursday by the Senate committee on urban planning, housing and resettlement headed by Senator JV Ejercito, an undersecretary of rehabilitation czar Ping Lacson admitted that it will take three years before the government can deliver the 14,000-plus houses needed in Tacloban City alone.

No doubt the condition of survivors are truly miserable – as they continue to suffer from one disaster after another due to the inadequacy (“insignificant” and “negligible” were the words used by government workers and volunteers) of the help they have been getting from the national government. Which is why a big question now for many people is where all that money supposedly allocated for post-Yolanda rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts went. As administration ally Senator Chiz Escudero said, he does not see the P173 billion allocated for 2013 and 2014.

Clearly, this is a situation where transparency should have been done to dispel suspicions that the funds in-

Ano mang paghihirap natin ay karapat dapat lamang sa atin. Ngunit ang ibigin at pagalayan ng buhay ng banal na Diyos at dumaan sa matinding paghihirap sa kamay ng mga sundalo ng Roma ay tunay na kamangha mangha. Kung tayo ay nabubuhay sa galit at sama ng loob, walang mabuting bagay na madudulot ito sa atin at sa mga taong naka-paligid sa atin. ang mabuting balita ng kaligtasan ng dahil sa kamatayan ni Kristo sa krus. Ang colonel na nagpapatakbo ng kulungan ay hinamon ang mga presong namumukhaan si Zamperini na lumapit sa harapan at makipagkita muli sa kanya.

Niyakap niya ng lahat ng lumapit sa kanya at muling pinaliwanang ang mabuting balita ng pagpapatawad ng Diyos sa ating mga kasalanan sa pamamagitan ni Hesus. Lubos na namangha ang mga preso sa dalisay at tunay na pagmamahal ni Zamperini sa mga dating nagmaltrato sa kanya.

Sinabi niya sa CBN ng siya ay mainterview sa telebisyon na may ilan sa kanila ang nagbigay ng buhay kay Hesus.

PASTOR JUNIE JOSUE

Agent 777 Si Laura Hildebrand naman ay nagtrabaho ng pitong taon para ikwento ang istorya ni Zamperini. Nagkaroon sila ng pagkakaibigan kahit malayo sa isat isa sa pamamgitan ng paguusap sa telepono. Si Laura ay may malubhang palagiang pagkapagod na dahilan kung bakit madalang syang umalis ng bahay. Hindi ito alam ni Zamperini.

Kaya’t ng malaman ay pinadala niya ang isa sa kanyang medalyang purple heart dahil pakiramdam niya na mas karapat dapat si Laura na tumanggap nito dahil 30 taon na syang naghihirap. Nagawa ito ni Zamperini ng dahil sa kapahayagan ng paghihirap at

kamatayan ni Hesus ang anak ng Diyos na walang kasalanan para sa ating mga kasalanan.

Ano mang paghihirap natin ay karapat dapat lamang sa atin. Ngunit ang ibigin at pagalayan ng buhay ng banal na Diyos at dumaan sa matinding paghihirap sa kamay ng mga sundalo ng Roma ay tunay na kamangha mangha. Kung tayo ay nabubuhay sa galit at sama ng loob, walang mabuting bagay na madudulot ito sa atin at sa mga taong naka-paligid sa atin.

Naging lasenggo, laging binabangunot at puno ng poot sa mga umapi sa kanya, si Zam-

perini at ang kanyang asawa ay muntik ng maghiwalay.

Nakakilala ang misis niya kay Hesus at nagsuko ng buhay sa Diyos sa isang krusada kung saan si Billy Graham, ang kilalang Amerikanong mangangaral ang nagsalita. Niyaya niya ang asawa hangga’t sa sumama ito sa krusada ni Billy Graham at nagsuko din ng buhay niya kay Hesus.

Naglaho ang mabigat na dala dalahin niya ng dahil sa karansan niya bilang POW o prisoner of war at nagkaroon siya ng pambihirang pagmamahal at pagpapatawad sa mga umabuso sa kanya.

Kaya kaibigan, kung kagaya ka ni Zamperini bago siya magsuko ng buhay kay Hesus, tanging si Hesus lamang ang makapagpapalaya sa iyo at magbabago ng buhay mo. Bakit hindi mo isuko ang buhay mo ng maranasan mo ito mula sa Diyos.

---(Junie Josue, Lead Pastor, International Worship Centre, 1077 St James Street, Winnipeg Manitoba, 204-774-4478)

One disaster after another Babe Romualdez

BABE’S EYE VIEW tended to help the victims are being channeled elsewhere.

Whatever the amount, the government owes it to the people to properly account for the funds given. In fact, a restaurant chain owner informed us that their foundation had donated P15 million in cash but they are wondering where and how the money was used.

The foundation did not even get an acknowledgment receipt.

All the donors want is for some form of assurance that what was given – whether cash or goods – are being put to good use. Which is why news about relief items getting spoiled and declared unfit for human consumption comes across as very disappointing – more so with the admission

by Welfare Secretary Dinky Soliman that the goods got wet during shipment – which clearly is pure negligence, not to mention lack of foresight and carelessness on the part of the agency and its staff.

To be fair, the government did put up the Foreign Aid Transparency Hub or FAiTH – an online portal where in-

No doubt the condition of survivors are truly miserable – as they continue to suffer from one disaster after another due to the inadequacy (“insignificant” and “negligible” were the words used by government workers and volunteers) of the help they have been getting from the national government. formation on the pledges and donations from international donors is posted. However, there is nothing in the website that tells donors and the public how the money has been or is being used. How can this be, when this is supposed to address the question of transparency and accountability that Malacanang was so emphatic about when it announced that FAiTH Version 2.0 will include the tracking of aid and assistance given to the national government?

It is very amusing that early on, Edwin Lacierda challenged private groups and organizations to be transparent with the donations channeled through them, saying they expect these groups to be accountable for the money given them by foreign donors and other people. We can’t really blame large companies who prefer to conduct rehabilitation projects on their own, perhaps out of mistrust for government agencies or the perception that the pace will be faster if they oversee the construction of houses and other projects themselves.

The president admitted that it was difficult tracking down the donations given to

Yolanda survivors, saying the bulk of the funds went to nongovernment organizations.

However, this pronouncement comes in stark contrast with a statement by Secretary Sonny Coloma that of the P199.48 billion from the international community in the form of loans, grants and donations for rescue, relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts, almost P170 billion was coursed through various government agencies while only P30 billion was coursed through NGOs. Clearly, there is a disconnect.

COA must come in and refine its system of auditing to prevent the perception of inconsistency, like the time when it came out with a special report that P700 million in donations meant for Yolanda victims were unutilized. But apparently, some funds allocated for local government units were not transferred because the national government wanted a clear proposal on budget utilization – a situation reminiscent of a patient gasping for breath who is being required to give his name and other details before being admitted for emergency treatment.

In any case, many find it disconcerting to know that no one was monitoring the Yolanda funds as admitted earlier

by Dinky Soliman and attested to by a report from Senator Chiz Escudero who said no single agency in government knows the total amount of the local and foreign donations for the victims of Yolanda.

If there is any major investigation that the Senate should really spend time and taxpayers money on, it is to look into this huge potential anomaly.

We are talking about billions of pesos. It’s bad enough that the money comes from Filipino taxpayers, but it’s even worse when donations come from foreign governments and their citizens because the next time another disaster strikes and we ask for help from the international community again, they might not be as sympathetic or generous because of lingering suspicions that the funds were not used efficiently.

The Congressional factfinding committee that recently went to Leyte should immediately enact a law that will establish an agency to handle all the international donations and act like a clearing house that would monitor the flow of funds – not just to record which country donated how much but to keep track of the amounts disbursed and who received them. We should never allow a major disaster like Yolanda to be a continuing disaster for the poor victims who have already suffered enough.

(Philstar)

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www.angperyodiko.ca December 1-15, 2014

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very brand has its own origin, vision, heritage and story to tell about its beginnings. Before becoming big, a brand, par ticularly auto brands, has to work its way up the ladder, take risks along in line with a belief that the founding vision will someday become reality.

The story of the Dodge brothers

Take for example the history of Dodge; an automobile brand that has a long history before becoming one of America’s top automobile brands. We trace the story of the Dodge Brothers who, in July of 1914, formed a company that will long be associated with great and iconic automobiles.

Humble beginnings

Business venture with Henry Ford John and Horace Dodge agreed to do business with Henry Ford by signing a contract on Feb. 28, 1903. Under the contract, the Dodge brothers have to supply the rookie Ford Motor Company with 650 sets of running gears at USD 250 each. During that time, the running gear

meant the entire automobile except the vehicle’s wheels, tires and body. Then in July, the Dodges managed to make their first delivery.

However, Ford Motor Company wasn’t able to keep up in terms of finances with an overdue

After more than a century, the Dodge name is still one of the most desirable and most iconic in the automotive industry. Today the Dodge heritage is firmly rooted in performance and muscle cars, striking SUVs and pickup trucks, a story that began with a simple bicycle over a hundred years ago.

payment of USD 7,000. The Dodges even handed Henry Ford an additional USD 3,000 in exchange for 10-percent in the Ford Motor Company stock. John Dodge also became the director and vice president of Ford Motor Company. one hundred, 28 

The founders of Dodge were John Francis and Horace Elgin Dodge, brothers born on Oct. 25, 1864 and May 17, 1868 respectively. The Dodge brothers grew up at Niles, Michigan, and their father was an owner of a machine shop. In 1886, they move to Detroit and worked for a boiler company for eight years af ter which the Dodge brothers became machinists for the Dominion Typograph Company in Windsor, Ontario.

Come 1986 Horace Dodge patented an improved ball bearing for bicycles.

With this the brothers par tnered with Fred Evans to produce a bicycle in accordance to Horace’s invention. Things seemed to fall into right places as they leased the Domini o n Ty p o g r a p h plant and manufactured the Evans and Dodge bicycle during 1987 to 1900. Then the Dodge br others withdrawn their par tnership with Evans and took home around USD 10,000 for their share in the venture. With the sum of money that they have, the Dodge brothers decided to have a machine shop in Detroit in 1901.

In June 1901, the Dodge brothers star ted to supply Detroit’s growing automobile industry with major components.

As a testament to their skills, Ransom E. Olds (of Oldsmobile), Detroit’s first automaker, gave the Dodge brother a contract wherein they have to produce 2,000 engines for the Oldsmobile. In 1902, Olds gave the Dodge brothers another contract to manufacture 3,000 transmissions, making them the largest par ts supplier and machine shop in Detroit.

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Jane the Virgin star a big fan of Pacman

MANILA, Philippines - During the star-studded week that was (which saw tennis greats like Maria Sharapova and music idol Jason Mraz visiting the country), TV star Gina Rodriguez also came over to promote her hit US series Jane the Virgin.

The actress is actually in the middle of an Asian vacation, but has happily accommodated promo duties while she’s in the region. She also just came from Macau to watch boxing hero Manny Pacquiao triumphed over Chris Algieri.

“I actually went to Macau to watch the Pacquiao fight because my father is a (boxing) referee and he was the referee of the Pacquiao fight. So, we went there to be with my dad, and I love my dad, he’s my bestfriend and he’s gonna retire. It was his last fight. So, I asked my awesome boyfriend to come with me and watch the fight,” the vivacious Latina beauty told The STAR in an interview last Thursday, at the Fairmont Hotel, arranged by Sony Channel (the rebranded beTV cable channel), which airs Jane the Virgin in the Philippines Sunday nights at 9:05, in the same week as the US telecast.

Gina also gushed about meeting Pacman for the first time after the bout.

“My father has been on a few of his fights before, but it was my first time to talk to Manny in Macau. He was very sweet. I told him, ‘Oh, I’m going to your country,’ and he’s like ‘Oh, why?’

‘I’m going to promote my TV show, Jane the Virgin,’ and he goes, huh? Because Jane the Virgin (the title) can throw people off. And then I’m like, ‘I play a good Christian girl,’ and he goes wow, giving me two thumbs-up.

And he says, ‘Good luck, good luck!’ He’s so fantastic because he’s so warm and kind but also loving of his fans and supporters, and I’m a big fan of him.”

It was Gina’s first time in the Philippines although she’s not exactly a stranger to the culture because one of her childhood bestfriends is a Filipino and she has a cousin, who’s half-Filipino and half-Puerto Rican.

“The moment we set off the plane, everybody’s been incredible and lovely, so I really like that.”

Gina added, “To be honest, I have so much vocal Filipino fans on Twitter, Instagram and I love it! You guys are making my dreams come true. To come here and be part of this, it’s an honor!”

In Jane the Virgin, Gina plays yes, a good Christian girl named Jane Villanueva who

finds herself in a nightmarish situation when she gets pregnant after a routine-gynecologistcheck-up-gone-wrong: Her doctor artificially inseminates her by mistake. The fresh and peculiar premise of the comedy/drama is making critics sit up and notice. The A.V. Club noted: “More people should be watching Jane the Virgin. Seven episodes in, it has established itself as the season’s best new network show, maintaining a high level of quality and building storytelling momentum every single week.” -Philstar

Announcement Jerry Medina is now licensed for the Commission of Oaths. He is now also a licensed marriage commissioner. Contact him at (204) 795-1792 for free affidavit stamps, or if you need expert advise on marriage. You may also visit Facebook: IKAW Winnipeg for more details.

Christmas party Announcement A Davao Christmas Party will be held on Dec. 6, 2014, 5:30 p.m. at 434 Adsum Drive, Maples Community Center.

Please contact Susan Escritor at 204-293-3972 or Joel Solite for details.

God bless us all!

20 lamoureux...

www.angperyodiko.ca n December 1-15, 2014

Now for the tricky/sneaky part of what the Government has done. I remember when I was the critic for immigration when the Minister introduced the visiting

ents and how that announcement was meant to cover up another announcement made at the same time which resulted in the freezing of the parent sponsorship program for over two years. If you read what they announced back then, you might have drawn the conclusion that things were good but it is no different today.

10- year super visa for par-

If you read the details, this

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but we will have to wait and see.

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by neoliberal globalization.

Among non-white Americans, blacks struggle hardest to survive with the lowest incomes and the worst living conditions.

A recent Federal Reserve study broadly shows that between 2010 and 2013, the inflation-adjusted incomes of the bottom 90% of Americans fell, whereas the earnings of the top10% rose. Thus the inequality widened.

The unfairness of it all is exacerbated by the tax breaks generously provided by the US federal government – mainly under Republican Party administrations – to the highestearning Americans.

According to Wall Street executive Steven Rattner, in an International New York Times opinion piece titled “Inequality in America,” in 1995

the 400 taxpayers with the biggest incomes paid an average of 30% in taxes. By 2009, he points out, the same biggest earners paid an average tax rate of only 20% (ordinary employees’ tax rate: 35%).

“Lower taxes mean less for government to spend on programs to help those near the bottom,” says Rattner.

He proceeds to show that, compared with rich countries in Europe, the US spends less for welfare programs, such as early childhood education and care, national health insurance, disability insurance, unemployment benefits, and retirement payments.

All told, social spending in America – the world’s biggest economy: GDP at $17 trillion but with the same amount in national debt – is below the average of that of the wealthiest countries. These governments “help their lessfortunate citizens to a greater extent than [America does] in ways that are not captured in

last announcement still allows for live-in care givers. The difference is that now there is a cap, whereas before Dec. 1, there was none.

it was not difficult to find people who would provide care/services but they did not want to live with their employer.

The manner in which the reformed program has been introduced to the public looks great but there is reason for concern. One must remember that Trudeau’s program was introduced only as a live-in program because at the time,

In reading the details of the recent announcement, some could conclude that given the new rules, there will not only be fewer live-in caregivers coming to Canada but in a twisted way, there are some in society that will likely be

the income statistics.”

computed by Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government.

Although crediting Obama for trying to keep income disparities from widening further by “forcing tax rates on the wealthiest Americans up towards fair levels,” Rattner says “much more can and should be done, like raising the minimum wage nationwide.” Also he concedes it will be harder and will take longer time to help those in the middle class “whose incomes have been battered by globalization.”

A third arena where the US is doing worse is national security, which is moored to and mired in its 13-yearsand-going “war on terror.”

George W. Bush started the war by invading Afghanistan in late 2001, then Iraq in 2003. Obama won the presidency in 2009 on a promise to end the twin wars.

The Afghan and Iraq wars have cost the American people a whopping $6 trillion (or $75,000 per household), as

Ai-Ai tells 21-year-old bf: Love conquers everything MANILA, Philippines - “They just know your name but not your story.”

Thus said Ai-Ai delas Alas to her boyfriend Gerald Sibayan in a post on her Instagram account on Monday.

The 50-year-old actress took to social media to greet her young beau on his 21st birthday via a short Instagram video. The video shows photos of Sibayan to the tune of Ronnie Liang’s song “Ngiti.” “(Alam) ko mahirap ang dinaanan naten at dinadaanan pa din pero may kasabihan nga LOVE CONQUERS EVERYTHING -- kaya natin to sobrang dasal lang at malalampasan naten to lahat-- at parate ko sinasabi sayo at sa sarili ko i am always thankful to GOD dumating ka pinasaya mo ang buhay ko at iniba ang pananaw sa pagibig (lumang salita te hayaan mo na parang nerbyos din yan dapat kinakabahan...pambata hahaha),” delas

Alas posted.

The comedian further said: “You walk into my life and make me realize why it never worked out with any one else. Maraming salamat sayo and on this special day i want to greet you A HAPPY HAPPY HAPPY BIRTHDAY.” “Enjoy your happy bday with me -- enjoy life -- always be thankful to God -- and if sometimes nasasaktan ka na hinga ng malalim at isipin they just know your name but not your story .. I LOVE YOU SO MUCH,” she ended her message.

The two celebrated Sibayan’s birthday in Japan.

Sibayan admitted his relationship with Ai-Ai in an interview with entertainment news site Philippine Entertainment Portal in September.

-Philstar

In terms of US soldiers killed in the two wars, the Pentagon acknowledged 6,133 casualties by 2011, of which 4,400 died in Iraq. The number of physically wounded, disabled, or mentally afflicted (many have committed suicide) could be 6-10 times more than those killed.

Initially fulfilling his promise, Obama had all US troops withdrawn from Iraq in 2011, leaving behind 60,000 civilian advisers and personnel to support a government the US military had organized. Yet today, at least 3,000 American troops are back there, purportedly to advise and train Iraqi soldiers and militias.

Verily the US is back to war, mainly through systematic aerial bombing, in Iraq.

The new enemy is the Islamic State, an al-Qaida offshoot whose forces have seized a

in a better position to acquire a live-in care giver. We will not know that until we see the future immigration stats, which will come out after the next election.

If you are interested in more details about the program, you may contact my office or email me at kevin@ mpkevin.ca. (www.mpkevin. ca)

huge slice of northwestern Iraq and part of Syria. (Ironically, the key IS leaders started recruiting members while they were detained in US military prisons in Iraq.)

When the IS forces swept into Iraq in June, the latter’s corruption-ridden army – trained and armed by the US at the cost of $25 billion – easily disintegrated.

What of Afghanistan?

Obama has reneged on his promised troop pullout by end-December 2014. He has authorized 9,800 US troops, along with 3,000 NATO soldiers, to stay until 2015 to carry out combat missions against “militant groups.”

The targets include the Taliban, whose rule the US had overthrown but which has regained its previous strength, threatening the wobbly government installed by the Americans. Déjà vu. (Philstar)

Love the GAME www.angperyodiko.ca December 1-15, 2014

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he sport of basketball is growing around the world. In our neck of the woods, the PBA Winnipeg is soaring to new heights with the entry of new teams, adding to the already action-packed games to the delight of the community and sports aficionados.

More than 50 teams will take to the hardcourt to show their wares as the new season of the PBA Winnipeg unfolds at the Garden City Collegiate on November 23, 2014. Special awards were given to the best muse, best in team uniform and biggest number of delegation, among others, after the opening rites.

One of the premiere local sports events in this part of the country, the PBA Winnipeg continues to inspire budding playmakers as well as the veterans to excel more in the sport. The PBA Winnipeg is more than just about playing basketball -- it is also about bringing sports fans and athletes together to nurture friendship, build camaraderie on and off the hardcourt, and advocate for a healthy and active lifestyle.

The league takes pride in the dedication and hardwork of each and everyone involved who have contributed to its success over the years.

We would like to thank the speakers and guests during the opening ceremonies for their inspiring message: Kevin Chief, Mike Pagtakhan, Larry Vickar, Kevin Lamoureux, and Maria Aragon.

There are so many names to mention as there teams to acknowledge in the fast-growing PBA League, but we’ll make it up to you in our next issue to thank the many others for their continued support and enthusiasm. You know who you are. Until then, keep safe and healthy all the time and yes, thank you for supporting PBA Winnipeg!

Sports

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PBA Winnipeg new season:

Soaring to new heights

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Sports

Ang Peryodiko

Sino ba

ang No. 1?

IKAW! The 23rd IKAW FREE Community Basketball for kids 2014-2015 unfurled on September 30, 2014 and will run until January 2015 with a total of 15 teams.

The Open (youth and adults) commenced on November 23, 2014 and will run until May 2015 with a total of 26 teams between Divisions: Open, 35+ and 45+ with games scheduled every Sunday at Tec Voc High School.

The Open division consists of 10 teams: Redstar, Pimp My Rice, Dizkarils, MCI Warriors, Marada Monster, Eastern Chrysler, Air Winnipeg, Richmond, Arayat and Goodfellas.

We are expecting 10 teams for the 35 and over division and 6 teams for the 45 and over division.

Ikaw is so proud to be the longest running and most affordable league for youth and adults.

Special thanks to our sponsors, namely: Rincon Guayabitos, Mexico Tonita 1 Restaurant and Bar, Mateja Bar and Grill, Rayo del Sol Bungalow, Mr. and Mrs. David Garcia, Dr. Abimael Fernandez, Barb and Harold Rathgaber, Freddy and Malena of Guayabitos Mexico, Chapel Lawn Memorial Garden, Mr. and Mrs. Elmo and Cecil Lavador, Mr. and Mrs. Bhoy Gali, Mr. and Mrs. Phil Jularbal, Mr. and Mrs. Rod Domingo, Mr. and Mrs. Romy Ominga, Harval Sportswear, SPC Cleaning, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Laforteza, Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Garcia, Mr. and Mrs. Dondy Lagunay, Mr. Larry Guiterrez and family, Licensed Insurance Broker Jerwin Medina, Real Estate Frank Zappia Group, Real Estate Eric Orbeta, Mr. and Mrs. Orlando Buduan, Glenn/Ferds/John Medina of Redstar & Chong, Mr. and Mrs. Jojo Cerdon, Cindy Klassen Recreation Complex Managers and Staff, Army-Navy Legion on Empress, Tom and Gord, Myrna’s Café, Corazon Jewellers, Gelyn’s, Pasalubong, Emerald Palace, Marigold Ellice, Cathay House, Green Hills Realty, Harvey Smith, MP Kevin Lamoureux, Councillor Mike Pagtakhan and new Mayor Brian Bowman.

Special thanks also go to all IKAW Volunteers and Executive Committee members, namely: Dondy Lagunay, Phil Jularbal, Rod Domingo, Bhoy Gali, Bong Rafael, Jojo Cerdon, Obet Quirante, Elmer Tolentino, Larry Guiterrez and Boyet Carungcong.

IKAW Trusted Marketing Executives are: Phil Jularbal, Rod Domingo, Buddy Raquid, Sonny Cestina, Billy Abad, Larry Guiterrez and Mila Lagunay.

Our vision is to promote team sports, strengthen and motivate individuals to play our national sport of basketball; and to lead and be good examples and role models to both young and older athletes in the community.

Very special thanks to all who supported and voted for IKAW Commissioner Jerry Medina. So many names to mention… it was very close, and lost by only 90 votes, a very strong second with 2108 total votes vs 2198 votes for successful candidate.

Jerry is now licensed for the commission for oaths as well as a marriage commissioner.

Anyone who wants to get the affidavit stamps? Free of charge! For more details please contact IKAW Commissioner Jerry Medina at (204)795-1792 or visit us on Facebook: IKAW Winnipeg.

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What if you could write your Mr. Right?

GMA Network launches light

fantasy drama series

“More Than Words”

GMA Network will have viewers swooning as the newest light-hearted drama series More Than Words begins this November 4 on its flagship international chann e l , GMA Pinoy TV. More Than Words stars Janine Gutierrez and Elmo Magalona, the widely embraced Kapuso love team that will once again captivate audiences, following their pairing in the hit remake of Villa Quintana.

Showing Janine Gutierrez in a new light is her portrayal of Ikay, a girl taunted as a weirdo at school because of her unique looks and constant daydreaming. She finds solace in writing fiction online, creating the character of Katy Perez in her work entitled Diary of a Queen Bee. Unlike Ikay, Katy is a cool, popular girl adored at St. Martin’s University. In her story, she creates her dream boy, Hiro.

The next morning, Ikay is surprised when she sees a boy washed ashore. It turns out he is exactly the guy she pictured in her blog entry. Breathing life to the character of Hiro is Elmo Magalona.

Hiro finds himself in an unfamiliar place after figuring in an accident the night he rebelled against his widowed mom. He loses his memory, starts a new life with the help of Ikay, and eventually falls for her.

Set to make More Than Words all the more exciting is the ensemble cast led by Ms. Jaclyn Jose as Precy, the quirky and eccentric mother of Ikay; Gardo Versoza as Victor, the ambitious stepfather of Hiro; Yayo Aguila as Marissa, the widowed mother of Hiro; Enzo

Pineda as Nate, campus heartthrob and star player of the varsity soccer team; Stephanie Sol as Belle, the queen bee of Southville Academy, girlfriend of Nate and Ikay’s biggest bully; Mikoy Morales as Chester, the son of Victor and stepbrother of Hiro; Mayton Eugenio as Chelsea and Coleen Perez as Molly, the classy conspirators of Belle against Ikay.

Giving shelter to Hiro are Emil and Rose, respectively portrayed by the widely-popular 80s love team of Rey PJ Abellana and Leni Santos. Emil and Rose’s relationship turned sour after their only child died many years ago. With the arrival of Hiro, they will find their way back to each other.

Taking care of Hiro, the son they wished they had, will serve to mend their rocky relationship.

Under the helm of esteemed director Andoy Ranay, don’t miss the blossoming romance in More Than Words, this November 4 on GMA Pinoy TV. For more information on Kapuso shows and artists, visit the website, www.gmanetwork. com/international.

December 1-15, 2014

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(screenshot from Rappler’s live stream)

Former Sinulog queen wins Miss Earth 2014 CEBUANA Jamie Herrell is the new Miss Earth 2014.

Herrell, who won Miss Earth Philippines 2014 in May, bested 84 candidates of the pageant that seeks to “actively promote and get involved in the preservation of the environment and the protection of Mother Earth.”

The coronation was held at the U.P. Theatre in Quezon City on Saturday, Nov. 29.

The other winners are Miss Earth-Air Andrea Neu (USA); Miss Earth-Water Maira Alexandra Rodriguez (Venezuela); and Miss Earth-Fire Anastasia Trusova (Russia).

As Miss Earth, Herrell will serve as the ambassador to environmental protection campaigns worldwide, the Miss Earth 2014 website stated.

Asked during the pageant what she will do to reverse global warming, Herrell said she wants to start by educating children, whom she described as the “people of tomorrow.” Herrell also said global warming is a long-overdue issue.

Herrell is the second Filipina and Cebuana to win the crown, after Karla Paula Henry won the title in 2008.

Herrell is a Mega Cebu youth ambassador. She was also crowned Sinulog Festival Queen and Ms. Aliwan, both in 2013. RCT

The Philippines’ Jamie Herrel is Miss Earth 2014.

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ABS-CBN files $12M lawsuit against 18 pirate sites REDWOOD SHORES, November 24, 2014 - ABS-CBN Corporation, ABS-CBN Film Productions, Inc (Star Cinema) and ABS-CBN International

filed suit in US Federal District Court in Florida last November 21, 2014 against 18 pirate sites for damages of over $12 million dollars resulting from the

infringement of the copyrights and trademarks of ABS-CBN’s popular TV shows and movies.

The defendants are partnerships or unincorporated busi-

ness associations which operate through domain names registered with registrars in the U.S. and elsewhere. Their domain names are the following: 1) buhaypinoyofw.net; 2) freepinoytvshows.net, pinoylovetvshowreplay.com; 3) hapeetube.biz, lovelytube.biz, pinoy-telebisyon.biz, pinoy-telebisyon.org; 4) lambingan.tk; 5) movieserye. com; 6) pinaytambayan.org; pinoy-ako.me; 8) pinoymoviegallery.net; 9) pinoytambayan. me; 10) pinoytelesine.com; 11) pinoytopmovies.com; 12) pinoytv.me; 13) projectcabbage.com; 14) tambayanofwtv. info; 15) telebesyon.com; 16) telebyuwers.ph,telebyuwers.tv; 17) teleseryereplay.com; 18) yzreplay.com.

Based on the complaint, the defendants provide on-demand streaming performances of fulllength versions of ABS-CBN’s TV shows and movies through their websites. Defendants often display the latest content to their servers within minutes or hours of the original broadcast in the Philippines. Further, they control the organization and presentation of the content by providing links to ABS-CBN shows and promote and advertise the content as ABS-CBN’s through search engine optimization and meta tags, including the use of ABS-CBN’s marks, then stream the shows for users’ viewing through their websites.

With the popularity of ABS-CBN films and TV shows, these sites drive significant traffic that enable them to reap profits from advertising and other revenue.

According to ABS-CBN AVP

of Global Anti-Piracy Elisha Lawrence, “this is another phase in our relentless enforcement campaign to identify and punish pirates whose sites have been reported to contain malware that can cause substantial financial harm to innocent people who were just trying to view our shows and movies.”

This latest lawsuit comes on the heels of the police search and seizure by police in Victoria, Australia at the home of Mary Smith in the suburb of Barooga, New South Wales in Australia where numerous pirate ABS-CBN DVDs, DVD burners and hundreds of pirated ABS-CBN movies on computer hard drives were located. Recently, ABS-CBN also received a US$10 million judgment from the U.S. Federal District Court in Oregon against Jeffrey Ashby for damages from his infringing the copyrights and well-known trademarks of ABS-CBN by rebroadcasting ABS-CBN’s popular TV shows and movies on his pirate websites. Among the many pirate sites that Ashby owned were watchfilipinotv. com,watchfilipinomovies.com and pinoytalaga.com.

“We at ABS-CBN are committed to giving our viewers the best viewing experience for our content and protecting the rights of the talented creative and production teams that work hard to deliver these shows and films,” said ABS-CBN Global COO Raffy Lopez. “Online pirates undermine that, hence, we are determined to discourage and stop them.”

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Sharon writes open letter to mom Elaine MANILA, Philippines - Sharon Cuneta wrote an open letter to her mother Elaine Cuneta, who passed away last November 5 due to internal bleeding and complications arising from abdominal surgery.

In her post on Saturday, Sharon expressed how much she misses her mother and how “broken” she’s feeling after her death.

“I had no idea how much it would hurt to lose you...

I have shut down and I quietly get on with each day since you left...” she said.

The Megastar also regretted the times she could have spent with her mother.

“I wish we could have had just a little more time together... to become close... to love more... to talk... just to be Mama and baby again...,” she said. Sharon also apologized for “everything I did to hurt you from the time I was little...”

Despite the sadness she’s going through, Sharon tries to be strong especially when she remembers that her mother “didn’t raise me to be weak and useless...”

In a post, she apologized for not responding to the people who’re trying to contact her.

“It still is to cope with the events that have transpired within this, the most horrible year of my life so far...” she explained. (Philstar) Sharon Cuneta to mother Elaine: I have no idea how much it would hurt to lose you... File Photo

Jessica Sanchez on Sarah G: ‘I absolutely love her’ MANILA – If she could choose one Filipino artist to collaborate with in the future, Jessica Sanchez said it would be “The Voice of the Philippines” coach Sarah Geronimo.

Sanchez revealed this on “ASAP” on Sunday after she performed her new single “This Love” on the Sunday musical variety show.

“You know who I just met the other day when I did the Pinoy relief benefit? I met Sarah Geronimo for the first time.

I absolutely love her. I would love to do something with her,” she told Gary Valenciano.

The “American Idol” runner-up said she “absolutely loves” Geronimo and is looking forward to sharing the stage with the Filipino singer in the future.

Sanchez is currently in the country to do charity work and to promote “This Love.”

This is Sanchez’s second single after “Tonight,” which was part of her “Me, You And The Music” album. abs-cbnnews.com

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one hundred... 

From 18

Subsequently, the Dodge brothers remained Henry Ford’s primary supplier until 1914.

Ford expanded its production, same as the Dodge brothers. As a result, Ford increased the required production of 150 machines to 333 a month. The Dodges provide components for the Ford models F, H, K, N and the model T. They manufactured every par t of the Ford vehicle except for the buckboard wooden seats and the rubber tires.

Working for Henry Ford for almost 10 years, the Dodge brothers realized that sooner or later Ford can stand on its own and they also worried their dependency to the company. Plus, the Dodge brothers also had a dream to build their own car. So, the Dodge brothers gave Henry Ford a notice that they would stop producing components for him in July 1914.

The birth of the Dodge Brothers Motor Vehicle Company With the reputation for quality workmanship and experience in the business, the Dodge brothers focused on producing their own vehicle. In 1914, John and Horace Dodge spent all their time in designing their first automobile.

The first Dodge automobile was manufactured in Nov. 14, 1914 and it was incorporated with some of Ford Model T’s features. It was equipped with a four-cylinder engine that delivers 36 PS versus the 20 PS produced by the Ford Model T. The Dodge 4 was an automobile accepted by the American army due to its toughness. It was used in General Pershing’s bat tles in Mexico during 1914 and in World War I as trucks, ambulances and staf f cars.

By 1915 the Dodge brothers and Henry Ford were not in good terms because the lat ter refused to pay dividends to his stockholders. This forced the Dodge brothers to file a lawsuit against Ford. The cour t’s verdict was good news for the Dodge brothers as Ford was forced pay dividends once again in 1917. In the end Ford wanted to have a complete control of the company so he bought the Dodge brothers’ remaining 10-percent share in July 1919 for USD 25 million.

Aside from the USD 25 million, the Dodge brothers also received USD 5.4 million in dividends over the years and earned another USD 2 million from their Ford contracts.

Thus, the total sum was USD 32 million on their initial investment of USD 10,000 in the Ford Motor Company.

All is well as Dodge star ted to become a popular motor vehicle brand. Dodge was the company who introduced the allste el body work and their cars were priced at USD 785.

The sudden loss of the brothers The Dodge brothers died unexpectedly in 1920, John at the age of 55 and Horace at 52. Both of them contracted influenza in Januar y 1920 while at the National Automobile Show in New York City.

Following the sudden death of the Dodge brothers, their company continued to operate smoothly under new management. Since the sons of John and Horace had no interests in the business, the Dodge brothers prepared Frederick J. Haynes who was their longtime plant manager to become the president and CEO of Dodge Brothers. Haynes became president in January 1921 and continued the tradition of engineering improvements to Dodge vehicles.

The sales of the Dodge brand ran relatively well behind Ford and Chevrolet. They were third in the industry in terms of sales during 1922 to 1924 and the company earned profits every year. Despite the success of the company, the Dodge widows, Matilda and Anna, decided to sell the enterprise in Jan. 1925 without releasing an of ficial explanation regarding the issue.

Up for gr abs With the decision to sell the company, Dodge Brothers were up for grabs. General Motors and Dillon, Read & Company were the two contenders to buy the Dodge Brothers.

GM of fered USD 124 million in cash or a combination of USD 50 million in cash and USD 90 million payable over nine years. On the other hand, Dillon, Read & Comp. offered USD 146 million all in cash.

So, the Dodge widows accepted Dillon, Read & Company’s of fer on April 30, 1925 and the banking firm issued a single check for USD 146 million. Dillon, Read & Company owned Dodge Brothers for only 3 years, passing the acqui-

sition to Chrysler Corporation on July 31, 1928.

Enter Chrysler In 1928, the company was sold to Walter Chrysler for USD 175 million. Dodge continued to grow over the years under Chr ysler’s management by incorporating new st yles and innovations.

Along wi th the said impr ovements, prices significantly incr eased by producing bigger engines and more power ful horsepower. In 1933, Dodge managed to sell 86,062 units that allowed them to take the four th place in sales.

Come 1959, the most power ful car was produced, equipped with a 6.3-liter engine that delivers 345 horsepower. Then, Dodge was introduced in Europe during the 1960’s due to Chrysler’s investments in some automotive groups such as the British Rootes and the French Simca.

Lightweight commercial vehicles were sold there under a dif ferent badge. The Dodge 50 series was positively received in the UK and became the primary choice for military and utility operations.

Dodge introduced the semi-compact Dar t, the Coronet, Polara and Monaco in 1961. These cars became famous along with other cars under the Chrysler Corporation.

Dodge today The vision of the Dodge brothers has truly become a success despite the many trials like the OPEC oil crisis and even the auto industry crisis in the last decade. Dodge (though parent companies Chrysler and now FIAT) have forged through the problems.

Af ter more than a century, the Dodge name is still one of the most desirable and most iconic in the automotive industr y. Today the Dodge heritage is firmly rooted in per formance and muscle cars, striking SUVs and pickup trucks, a story that began with a simple bicycle over a hundred years ago. (Text: Martin Aguilar/Photos: Chrysler Press)

Community Ang Peryodiko

PEOPLE, places & events

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A Lantern of Hope and Love

By Gemma Dalayoan POSING for picture-taking and standing 5’8’’tall with a long black hair, and very beautiful oval face, 30 years old Aura Catherine Langas Guevara smiled with pride as she held her prize- winning, blue and silver lantern that won second prize in the Parol Contest held on November 2, 2014 at the Garden City Court.

When asked how she made the Nativity Scene that was placed meticulously in the middle of her lantern, she explained. “I had to use several shades of nail polish to paint it.”

Colours used for the cover of the star lantern made of bam-

boo frame were predominantly blue and silver with some tints of other colours to accentuate its attractiveness. When queried why she had used blue, she countered, “because blue signifies peace and hope.” Then she smiled.

Aida Champagne, president of the Filipino Seniors Group and the Manitoba Filipino Street Festival, as well as Chairperson of the Lantern Festival, also added, “yes it is also a lantern of love. For Aura, it is a guiding light to serve as an inspiration for her not to lose hope that someday she would get better and conquer her life- threatening illness.”

Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba announces newlyelected execom for 2014-15 ORIGINALLY initiated by the Philippine Consulate in 1981, the organization, now presently known as the Philippine Heritage Council Inc. (PHCM) is composed of individuals and representatives from different Filipino-Canadian organizations and associations.

The Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba would like to announce and congratulate the newly-elected executive committee for 2014-2015 who will be leading and creating events throughout the year to celebrate the 117th year of Philippine Independence.

The rich culture and heritage of Filipinos is evident in Manitoba during the year, celebrated by our organizations and associations.

The week long festivities of Philippine Heritage Week will be held in June 2015. This particular week has remained a monumental event in our community since the 1980’s as all organizations and associations work together to celebrate and participate - leading up to the Philippine Independence Day Ball and the day we celebrate Philippine Independence - June 12th, 2015 President – Perla Javate Vice President External, Ramon (Jun) Sales Vice President Internal (CSI) – Chris Santos Secretary – Araceli Ancheta Treasurer – Ernesto Concepcion Asst Treasurer – Linda Ramos Membership Chair – May Deculing Membership Asst – Gloria Agravante Auditor – Malou Josue PRO - Marites (Tes) Aiello, Paul Gerald Macaraeg Congratulations again to the Board members and wishing them a successful year!

PHCM Oath and swearing-in ceremony will be held in December of 2014.

The PHCM welcomes any existing Philippine organizations to join our council. We are always open to meet dynamic individuals who would like to volunteer their time to help promote Philippine heritage and culture.

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact them at phcm.inc@gmail.com or visit their site on facebook and twitter.

Aura is a cancer-stricken mother of three children; two girls ages 6 and 5 and a 1 year old boy. She is married to a “very kind and supportive husband,” Ernesto, a nurse in Carman, Manitoba who arrived in 2009. He was formerly a doctor in the Philippines.

Aura said, “I have a rare cancer that travels in the blood.”

She had no qualms about describing how she felt as a cancer patient. Her face didn’t show any sign of fear, and her voice didn’t have even a slightest quiver as she described her ordeal undergoing chemotherapy at St. Boniface Hospital almost every week.

She said, “I have a very high tolerance for pain.” The thought that she has three young children and very supportive, kind husband gives her the strength and courage to face the challenges as she undergoes intensive treatment almost every week for her cancer. To deviate her attention from her debilitating disease, she indulges in arts and crafts, especially now that the festive season is around us.

Aura’s passion and inclination towards artistic endeavours have started ever since she was a child. She recalled, “I never had a birthday cake when growing up, so I learned how to bake and decorate it.”

As a child she was very shy; thus, she buried herself in creating something beautiful.

Although mostly alone doing her baking, arts, and crafts, she felt happy. It was through her love for the arts and crafts that she developed a strong and special bond with her

Aura’s passion and inclination towards artistic endeavours have started ever since she was a child. She recalled, “I never had a birthday cake when growing up, so I learned how to bake and decorate it.” father who is very supportive of what she does. In fact, the two them, while in the Philippines, always competed in art shows and would win prizes to the delight of her mother and siblings.

Her father and she again competed together at the Lantern-Making Contest in Garden City. Although a nurse by training, when questioned about what she wants to do now in Canada, she had no hesitation in answering, “I want to paint and indulge more in arts and crafts.” Her desire was fulfilled when Michael Arts hired her as

an instructor in decorating pieces of cake using the Wilton Method.

Her passion for the arts and crafts will strongly sustain Aura as she fights hard to banish her life-threatening illness, and as she looks at her prize-winning star or “parol”, it will guide and instill hope in her quest for wellness for the sake of her loved ones, especially her three children and husband.

She would remember and relate that it was the star of Bethlehem that led the Three Kings to the birthplace of Jesus Christ, the healer and saviour of mankind.

MAFTI Rondalla opens 1st Filipino Folk Music Festival THE Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers, Inc. (MAFTI) Rondalla debuted last November 15, 2014 by opening the 1st Filipino Folk Music Festival at the Philippine Cultural Centre of Manitoba.

MAFTI Rondalla is headed by four seasoned and skilled Filipino teachers/musicians: Leonila Natividad, Maria Loida Redona, Dennis Lauron and Carmela Co. All four are licensed teachers in the Philippines and are active members of MAFTI. Leonila plays the octavina, Maria plays the bandurria, Carmela plays the guitar and Dennnis, the head of the group, plays the bass.

The group had an information session regarding Rondalla classes on December 1, 2014, 6:00 PM at Grant Park High School.

For more information, contact MAFTI President Bernadette Agpalza at 204 995-9463 or email at b.agpalza@hotmail. com.

Classes will start in January 2015.

(Gemma Dalayoan)

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Lyca reveals her weakness as singer MANILA – Lyca Gairanod admitted that if she were to cite one of her weaknesses as a singer, it would be the fact that she is not fluent in English.

Gairanod, along with Darren Espanto, Juan Karlos Labajo and Darlene Vibares, appeared on “The Bottomline” on Saturday as they talked about their lives after “The Voice Kids.”

But the young singer said she is no longer scared of singing English songs.

“Kasi meron na pong nagtuturo sa akin ng English, tutor.

Nag-e-enjoy naman po ako,” she said.

Whenever she finds difficulty in remembering English lyrics, Gairanod said her mom would give her advice.

“Sabi po ng mama ko, para daw po huwag ko makalimutan ‘yung mga kanta, mag-behave daw po ako para may focus sa kanta para hindi ko daw po makalimutan,” she shared.

Asked for her reaction that some people still do not like her even after she won “The Voice Kids,” Gairanod said: “Okay lang po sa akin. Kahit ayaw po nila sa akin, kahit po isa lang po ‘yung nagkagusto sa akin, okay lang po

ako doon.”

Good friends

Meanwhile, Gairanod, Espanto, Labajo and Vibares said they consider themselves fortunate to have found a new family because of “The Voice Kids.”

“In the stage, magkakalaban po kami. Pero sa backstage, sa dressing room, sa rehearsal room, kung magharutan po kaming apat, napakakulit po talaga namin,” Labajo said.

“Sabi po ng mom ko, ang ka-compete ko daw po ‘yung sarili ko. Wala daw pong iba kundi ‘yung sarili ko,” quipped Vibares.

“I just want to enjoy myself.

I was also thinking of my family. I was also thanking God for the gift that he had given me and for letting me reach [the finale],” said Espanto.

Changed lives

According to the four young singers, their lives have changed drastically since they joined the televised talent competition.

For instance, Espanto said he could no longer go to the mall and just stroll around like what he used to do.

“Noon po malaya po ako nakakagala kapag bumibisita

horoscope ARIES (March 21-April 19): You are ready for a change in direction in order to increase your chances of reaching your long-term goals. You might even plan a retreat to contemplate your options, especially if you have been burning the candles at both ends. Making time for solitude now may be challenging but it’s a wise move.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20): Al though you may be qui te comfor table working alone, par ticipating in a group activity might be exactly what you need now. You are able to strengthen your conviction in your individual objectives if you share your vision with like-minded people. But it’s easy to get swept up in a cause that’s larger than your own.

Remember, contributing as an integral member of a team is admirable.

GEMINI (May 21-June 20): You could run into resistance today, but it’s hard to put your finger on the source of the problem. You might be afraid that you’ll lose your sense of identity if you take other people’s feelings to hear t. But you’re able to hold your ground now bet ter than you think.

CANCER (June 21-July 22): You are eager to immerse yourself into the refreshing deep sea of emotions, but others might not want to join you in your underwater adventure. Today’s watery Pisces Moon is an antidote for your recent emotional detachment.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22): You take pride in being known as the life of the par ty, but the Moon’s visit to your 8th House of Intimacy reveals a much deeper facet of your personality. You’re currently motivated to raise complicated issues that lack quick and easy solutions.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): You may grow annoyed if no one seems to be working as diligently as you. The Moon’s visit to your 7th

“The Voice Kids” Top 4 with Boy Abunda

kami sa Pilipinas. Ngayon hindi na po ako makapunta sa mall o kaya mag-groceries or lumakad sa sidewalk dahil marami pong nakakapansin po sa akin and minsan po dinudumog po. Sa Canada, medyo busy na rin si Mama and Daddy kasi they have to fly back and forth para ma-check ako. Sila ‘yung nagsasakripisyo talaga para sa akin,” he said.

Vibares, for her part, said she could no longer spend much time with her cousins.

“Dati nakakapag-bonding pa kami nila mama and papa.

Nakakapagsimba kami every day. Nung sumali na po ako sa ‘The Voice,’ hindi na ako nakakapag-bonding sa mga pinsan ko. Sabi nga po ng pinsan ko sa akin laro naman kami pero sabi ko ‘Pasensya na kailangan mag-practice ni Ate.’ Tapos nalungkot yung pinsan ko kasi hindi na kami nakakapaglaro,” she said.

As for Gairanod and Labajo, the two noted that they now live in a comfortable house. A house

House of Others emphasizes all aspects of your par tnerships today, but your obsession with the details might be perceived as unsolicited criticism. It’s not helpful to try to solve anyone’s problems or at tempt to change someone who falls shor t of your expectations.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 22): You have several projects to do around the house today, but you’re unsure of the best way to get star ted. You might think that making a list will help you focus, but even that could prove to be a daunting task. Although over-planning your day is tempting, it’s wiser to stay flexible and take every thing one step at a time.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23-Nov. 21): Finding pleasure is a top priority while the Moon travels through your 5th House of Enjoyment, but you experience conflict bet ween your desires and your values.

Luckily, your private mat ters need not inter fere with your outer world today if you can ef fectively manage your emotions.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Your cheer ful facade successfully hides tears and fears from other people’s view today but you still might feel over whelmed because you can’t seem to fully control your emotions.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): The more you struggle to regain control over your schedule today, the harder it is to keep every thing on track. However, all is not lost if satisfaction is elusive. There’s no need to fret because you’re likely bet ter of f than you realize.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): Financial issues can give you a headache today if there are so many choices to make that you don’t know which way to turn. Fiscal mat ters are fur ther complicated if your top advisers are of fering conflicting strategies today.

PISCES (Feb. 19-Mar 20): Your behavior could be confusing to others today, especially if they expect you to act in a rational manner. But the Moon’s monthly visit to your sign increases your unpredictability because your feelings are in the process of changing.

and lot was part of Gairanod’s prizes, while Labajo said he is already saving up so they could buy their own house in the future.

The four said they could not be any more thankful for “The Voice Kids” for it opened a lot of opportunities for them. (Philstar)

Announcement The PCCM Membership and Election Committee will hold its PCCM 2014 Annual General Meeting on Dec. 21, 2014, Sunday from 6pm to 9pm. Registration starts at 5:30 pm.

Last day for Membership Application was on Nov 30, 2014, Sunday, 9am to 4pm.

Individual registration must be in person. Group or Bulk registration will not be accepted.

Requirements for Filing for Board of Directors Candidacy are: Resume and Criminal Record Check from Winnipeg Police Service.

Schedule for Filing:** - Dec. 2 - 6 from Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm - Dec. 9 - 13 from Tuesday to Saturday from 9am to 4pm **Please note: PCCM is closed on Mondays. We will be open on Saturday in lieu of Monday to accommodate those who wish to file for BOD Candidacy.Please call (204) 775 4928 for details.

Get the correct answers to this Sudoku and win a free shirt!

Claim your prize (good for 1 winner only) at Ang Peryodiko/Forex Cargo of fice, located at 210-A Tyndall Avenue, Winnipeg.

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Rhian celebrates

life as she turns 24 Rhian Ramos may have just turned 24, but she has certainly come a very long way. Her birthday month of October has her on the receiving end of blessing after blessing, with exciting new acting projects, endorsements and meaningful celebrations keeping her extra busy.

The most recent of these highlights was her Oct. 26 appearance in a special production number on GMA 7’s Sunday All Stars (SAS). Just a week before that, on Oct. 19, she attended the final leg of the Vios Cup held in McKinley Hill West Street Circuit as a racecar driver. This was quite a feat for Rhian, who learned to drive just late last year exhibiting her characteristic determination to take things to the next level.

She demonstrated this strength in her most recent acting projects, including her stints in TV dramas My Destiny and Magpakailanman.

Her first appearance in Magpakailanman as a mother raising a young son who had a near-death and after-life experience rated so well that she was chosen again to portray the challenging role of a woman who was widowed four times, showcasing the maturity and depth she has gained in her experience as an actress.

Rhian will star in the leading role of an indie film opposite Piolo Pascual, to be directed by Jeffrey Hidalgo. The film is eyeing release in international film festivals.

Rhian first made a splash

on TV playing Leah Lazaro in 2006’s Captain Barbell opposite Richard Gutierrez, and in one of her most memorable roles as Jodi/Jenna in Stairway to Heaven opposite Dingdong Dantes.

Rhian also endorses loaded.com.ph, an online gaming site that allows its players to earn points and win prizes such as brand new TVs, watches, cameras, cell phones and other exciting items as they enjoy playing games by just visiting the website and texting LOADED to 2263 for Smart and Talk N Text subscribers. Loaded, she says, reminds her of the fun centers she used to frequent as a little girl. Today, these classic games and more can be accessed by players with just a click as soon as they subscribe to it.

Following a birthday bash thrown for her by the Bistro group of restaurants at modern Shanghai in MOA and another party by her fans, Rhian has decided to pay it forward as well by holding celebrations with her favorite charities, Child Haus, home for the sick children, and Graces, home for the aged. “ I ’ v e had a lot of challenges that I’ve had to overcome in my career and I am thankful to be where I am now,” she shares.

She may have achieved so much already, but it is certain that there is even more to look forward to from Rhian in years to come. Philstar

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www.angperyodiko.ca n December 1-15, 2014