2016 Manila up! May issue

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MAGAZINE May 2016 Edition

Elna Villaflor Mother’s Day Cinco de Mayo

www.retokee.com

Memorial Day

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Vegas

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Editor’s Note Sonia D. Bermejo Publisher/Executive Editor

Last month, we talked about the most famous mother of all – our Mother Earth. This time, we will talk about our earthly mother, our biological mother, grandmother, stepmother, foster-mother, and every mother figure that we have, or had in our lives.

The ones who gave us all the love and support that we needed; devoted their time and their all, in order for us to become the person that we are today. The women who have been there for us, who loves unconditionally; unselfishly given us, not just our needs, but our wants, never asking nor expecting anything in return. The list goes on and on…

Mother’s Day ranks #2 among the most commercialized celebrations (everyone has a mother to celebrate). It outranked Valentine’s Day, Christmas being number one. Founder of Mother’s

Day Anna Jarvis was greatly disappointed. Her primary goal was to give mothers a day of rest, and for sons and daughters to write their mother a letter, not sign their names at the bottom of a card. Anna, founded the holiday to honor her mother, Ann Jarvis (born in Culpeper, VA, moved to Grafton, West VA, where the celebration originated from), a mother who inspired other mothers. Anna, who founded the holiday, never became a mother herself, but became known as the mother of Mother’s Day.

Well, enough of my babbling about mothers and their greatness, I just can’t help but get emotional when I think about it, being a mother myself.

We also remember our brave soldiers, the few who fought for the freedom that they know they might not experience.

Happiness and lives unselfishly given, deserving of our respect.

Indeed, this month gives us bittersweet memories.

Now, on to a lighter note, Cinco de Mayo. Anyone who likes chips and salsa, and of course, margaritas (let’s not forget the coronas and tequilas), will be interested in learning about the history of this festive occasion, which we are featuring as well.

Although not considered a holiday,

it is widely celebrated, and is used as an excuse to PARTY!!!

No matter how you celebrate these three occasions, I’m sure it will be a memorable one.

From our ManilaUP! Family -- OLE! To all you party buffs out there.

We remember the soldiers, who have given us their tomorrow so that we can have our tomorrows, thank you for your service. WE SALUTE YOU!

And, to all the moms out there, who endures it all, with unfailing love, for the sake of their beloved children, WE HONOR YOU!

And don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful flowers, courtesy of the month of May.

Corrections: Article title Seen and Be Seen April 2016 issue page 5, corrected to Scene and Be Seen Spelling of contributing writer’s name April 2016 issue page 5, Credits: Sheila Virdamo-Vertuno Corrected to Sheila Vidamo-Vertuno On the pages of John Ablaza April 2016 issue omitted credits: Photo credit: Jhenny Morales Evans Model: Ivy Nalo We apologize for any confusion these may have caused.

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MAGAZINE

Executive Editor Sonia D. Bermejo

Features/Lifestyle Angel Tahimik

Associate Editor/Writer Antonette B. Ang

HAWAII, USA Maui Mania

by Edith Pendleton

Consultant Thelma Calabio Contributing writers: MANILA, PHILIPPINES In Other Worlds

By Becky Garcia Earnest Snoops!

by Ernest L. Gonzaga LONDON, UK UK na UK

by Ela Hidalgo

Island Living

by Randy Antonio Photographers: Benny Uy Rudy Autor Willie Cheng Phillip Ner Jon Bermejo Richard Dizon Gerry Edra Social Media Photographer: Celia Abuel “PaparrazzCel”

FLORIDA, USA Life’s Journey

by Melody Garcia

Events/Food Corner Blogger Grace Aguilar

WASHINGTON D.C. , USA Anette Bacani A.

Photo Editor Joe Cobilla

LOS ANGELES, USA Reflections of Hope

by Rev. R.D Quema

Director of Advertising Andy Z. Edralin

Beautiful Life

by Monet Lu

Associate Marketing and Advertising Gilda Pineda Dionela – London, UK Angel Tahimik, Advertising – Los Angeles, USA

On the Beat

by Fe Koons

Art Director Hydee Abrahan

Creative Consultant Noli Yu / www.Retokee.com

Graphic Layout John Ernest Gregory

MANILA UP! MAGAZINE 2720 W. Avenue 32, LA, CA 90065, USA Email: manilaup@gmail.com Website: http//www.manilaupmagazine.com Follow us: FB, Twitter, Instragram, Tumblr, Issuu, Magcloud

Articles published in this paper do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

ISBN 231-256-2-16

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Photos by Phillip Ner Photography Makeup by Michelle Molina

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SPELL, DEFINE AND GIVE THE MEANING OF MOTHER

Maui Mania

by Edith Y. Pendleton

May is in the air, that time of year when flowers bloom and the world comes alive in hues of various colors. The beauty of this time also celebrates a most revered figure in both our lives and in history as it has unfolded – MOTHER.

Spelling the word mother is rather moot, defining it encompasses definitions that are not simply bound by the biological, that of a female of the species giving physical birth to offspring. I beg to be excused from the excuse of the male seahorse, but that’s deviating from the whole point.

Beyond this, we encounter the essence of motherhood in many life forms. Mother Earth for starters. Who on this planet can deny that Earth is our mother nourishing all that survives and thrives within her embrace?

Nature with its abundance is set upon the tableau of this orb spinning around the Sun. Mother lode comes from deep within the abysses whether it be gold, diamond, ore, coal or other precious metals and elements humans unearth for purposes both practical and decorative. Mother Mary is an icon revered in the Catholic tradition with Flores de Mayo in our beloved motherland amongst the most celebrated of celebrations. We can conjure countless more definitions and then we are confronted with what the real meaning of Mother truly is for each unique individual.

Spell, define and find meaning are areas of study and contemplation unearthed and invariably substituted one for the other. Here begins a quest…

We were briefly reminded in April that Earth Day brings up a myriad of discussions about the unrestrained destructions wrought upon the earth by human populations exploding and resulting in the need to feed.

Which brings us to what is actually happening with the irresponsible stewardship of human beings who have methodically and successfully created this near Armageddon with melting ice from the poles, diminishing flora and fauna to the point of extinction, millions suffering from the ravages of wars (this is man in his worst atavistic state), diseases which manage to evade the most aggressive treatments and defy cures, etc. I can go on with this polemic chatter and all I am left with is “what is it that Mother Earth has done to deserve us?” Thus, the backlash.

Record hurricanes, flooding, tsunamis, earthquakes, you name it. The moral onus is upon this generation, we make the critical choices or not.

Mother Mary is a model of the feminine energy and her symbolisms encompass the breadth and depth of womanhood. Birth mother of Jesus, she is given devotion by mothers who plead her intercession as they manage the burden of this role heaped upon those who are blessed (some may disagree) with progeny. Her gentle reminders of fortitude and grace through the sometimes fiery path of motherhood allows us mothers (of both genders -- I will expound on this momentarily) glimmers of the peaceful paths we also traverse as she once did.

Motherhood is not exclusive to the female gender alone nowadays. With nonheterosexual couplings arise same sex cou ples who opt to “mother” children as their own.

Some are adopted, others are surrogated but the result in effect is may be that one or the other holds the key to the title of mother.

Stepmother may connote the fiendish fairy tale storybook characters most “baby boomers” grew up reading in books. Nowadays, the “blended” family is accepted as norm in most societies. A stepmother’s role may either be gratifying or exasperating at times, even most of the time when they and the step children mix like oil and water. So are the “multiple blends” of several layers of step over stepmother ties. Some ties bind, others bond… go figure.

Lastly, we have seen or heard stories, even personally experienced being “mothered,” nurtured by someone other than a biological, foster, adoptive, surrogate or step mother.

These are folks who see us through life with that special touch only felt from the warmth and love of a real, genuine mother. I have had countless encounters with such folks. They come in all forms, these other mothers -- in size, shape, color, religion, persuasion and all types of differences that somehow defy the definition of a mother as we usually know it to be, but feel their motherly presence and or influence. I have been blessed with school teachers, mentors, church and numerous social acquaintances who, whether it was for a fleeting moment in time or as a guide throughout my journey, made it to the list of the way I spell, define and find meaning of Mother in my book of life.

Which brings us to some alternative meanings of Mother. What’s yours?

Edith Y. Pendleton Mother of two awesome Sons; gratefully blessed ;-)

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As I am wearing many hats and doing so is not always easy.

As a mother, an administrator to our many houses, and attending to the company’s needs, a driver at times, a cook, and a friend.

Obviously, I am a great mom who loves my kids, takes care of their basic physical and emotional needs, and spends quality time with them. I didn’t have to give up my own passions and interests once I became a mom. It’s important that I find time for what I love to do.

Travel, hosting lunches, exercising, meeting friends – make these a priority and find a way to incorporate those into my daily routine.

Easier said than done, I know, but I should at least aim to keep doing what I love. If I take care of my own needs, I will be happier and will function better as a mom.

Joanne Matschuck

As A Mother

I live, breathe, and sacrifice for the well-being of my children. Seeing them succeed is the best thing in the world, and watching them falter is gut wrenching. The important thing to remember is that the love I invest in our children absolutely makes a difference, even if I don’t see it bear fruit at first.

Being a mother is a little challenging sometimes. But I keep cool and try to stay patient. Staying calm, try to explain the practical reasons not to do something, and then why I don’t want them to do something. I try hard to always be understanding and a good listener. Knowing that they can come to me for friendship, advice, homework help, or just a hug, goes a long way for my kids.

Not having someone they can talk to can cause kids to retire into a shell, so I make sure I talk to them about how they feel regularly.

I should be happy knowing they love their father, grandparents, siblings, aunt, and uncle.

Life is messy when you strive for perfection; it can be unpredictable and full of surprises. Trying to create perfection is simply impossible and should never be my goal. I need to accept that the house will sometimes be untidy, that once in a while dinner will be takeout, and that the kids will sometimes have to entertain themselves while I recharge and renew.

I was patient in raising my children; it is hard work. I am their mother and a friend, but I set boundaries. I make rules for them to follow. During their developmental stage, I taught them to do things by themselves. If I do it for them, I am not really helping them, but rather holding them back. I gently teach them independence and let them do what they can do, and what is appropriate for them to do, by themselves. The sense of accomplishment that comes with being independent is immensely important for my children. As much as I like to feel needed, I try to let my kids be as independent and self-sufficient as they possibly can. Ever so slowly, I am working myself out of the picture.

! e l O(Cinco de Mayo)

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by Anette Bacani A.

Cinco de Mayo, or five of May in the English language, should not be confused with the Mexican Independence Day, which is commemorated on September 16. Although widely celebrated in the town of Puebla, Mexico, and highly celebrated in the states of California and Texas - General Ignacio Zaragosa’s birthplace, both of which were Mexican territories, it is not observed as a national holiday in Mexico.

The world’s largest Cinco de Mayo festival is held in Los Angeles, CA, “Festival de Fiesta Broadway.” It includes parades, mariachi bands, fiesta decorations, lots of dancing, traditional Mexican food, and Mexican beverages. It is more of a celebration of the Mexican way of life, and is sometimes referred to as ‘The Mexican St. Patrick’s Day.” Not a lot of people are familiar with its origins, but uses it as an excuse to ‘have a party!’

Organizing a Cinco de Mayo party is super easy. As long as you have the Mexican staples, chips and salsa, tacos, and guacamole, and of course their famous drinks, Corona, tequila, and margaritas, then you’re all set. Mole, a special food in Mexico, is a great treat if you can serve it at your party. Don’t

Photos: ABA

forget the colorful decorations, lots and lots of mariachi music and of course, dancing. If you can’t hold a party, just head to the nearest Mexican restaurant, where the lively festivity can be experienced for sure, and drinks are sold at a lower price.

Now, a quick lesson on how the festival came about. The year was 1862; after the war, Mexican President Benito Juarez declared that the country is too poor to pay the debt that they’ve incurred.

Britain and Spain negotiated with Mexico and withdrew, France on the other hand, then ruled by Napoleon III, went on to invade Mexico to collect the money owed them, and to take advantage of

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the opportunity to conquer the country. The French attacked Puebla de Los Angeles three times, and they had to retreat each time until they ran out of ammunitions, which gave way for General Ignacio Zaragoza to order an attack. It was a significant victory for the Mexicans. They won because the French army had to retreat. The French won in the end and captured Mexico City. Even though the victory was short-lived, the feeling of pride at having defeated such a strong army stuck. Hence, the date is memorialized. It is a commemoration of the win that the Mexicans had during ‘La Batalla de Puebla.’

10 MANILA UP! I would like to share with all of you about one of the most beautiful dreams I’ve had. Although it has been years since my mother joined the Lord, the pain in my heart still remains. I guess the heartache will never be gone. I just learned to accept the fact that she won’t be around anymore.

But, her memories will always be with me. And that is how she lives on in my heart and in my dreams. It was a beautiful dream, of us together, walking and talking in the park. She told me not to give up, to be strong and face life’s challenges by being firm in my faith, and to trust and surrender my will and my life to God. I was crying when I woke up. It was such a bittersweet emotion and I am very thankful that she visited me once again. I know she is watching over me from up above.

A major part of the memories children have of their mothers are the lessons they teach us. I find it amusing that most of the lessons children hear from their mothers are generally the same; and then these are passed on from generation to generation.

For example: “Eat your vegetables. They’re good for you.” “Don’t talk while your mouth is full.” “Pray before you eat.” “Don’t waste food.

Finish it all. Think of the hungry children in the world.” “If you don’t stop crossing your eyes, they are going to freeze that way.”

“Call me when you get there so I’ll know you’re okay.” I’ve read about a well-known chef from Italy who immigrated to the US. He said that his mother advised him to always set goals for his life, which has helped him be successful. “You can run 1,000 miles per hour, but if you don’t decide where to go before, you’ll run in a circle and go nowhere. A goal without a plan is just a wish, and we can waste time in wishing,” the chef quoted his mother. I myself have many lessons that I learned from my mother that I always reflect on. They say you eventually become your parents over time. I can sense

Mother MONET

LU

some of my Nanay (as I fondly call her) in me. When somebody younger seeks my advice, I find myself talking to them the way my mother talked to me when I was their age. I’m gratified to know I have retained the lessons that she tried so hard to instill in me. My mother was fond of reciting quotations or wisdom. Of course at that time, I really didn’t fully understand what she really meant. What I remember most are her wisdom about gratitude and work ethic. One of her favorites was: “Ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makakarating sa paroroonan.” In English this loosely translates to: “He, who doesn’t know how to look back where he came from, will never reach his destiny.” She often emphasized the need for me to remain humble and never forget the people who helped us along the way. When I opened my very first salon, she was there to remind me that I should always thank those who made my dream possible, especially my sisters who paid for my tuition so I can study styling and design.

She also challenged me to be more mindful and conscientious about work and money. She would always tell me: “Para kang kalabasa, gapang ng gapang naiiwan naman ang bunga.” Loosely translated, I think she meant that I often worked myself to the ground but I never saw the fruits of my labor.

Nanay’s constant prodding helped me to take more responsibility in my fiscal affairs.

Thanks to her, I’m still learning. What I’ve generally learned from the quotes she used to say is that there are some lessons we don’t understand until we are ready to digest what they really mean—for our self-improvement.

Years after her death, she continues to teach me these lessons, from the words of wisdom she left behind. I’m glad I can be here to repeat these words to my nieces, nephews and grandchildren or a person, a friend, who is need of advice so they can get a piece of motherly advice—from my great mom, Catalina Lu. I hope that all of us give due credit to our mother who have sacrificed a lot for our benefit. Mothers have an incredible job. Theirs is a 24-7 duty with no days off or sick days. They make sure we are fed, clothed, and comfortable. They nurture us into loving and caring human beings. All they want in exchange is for us to be happy.

Mother, you are my hero! You deserve a medal even if you never asked for it. One time I was asked a question, Monet, if you will be given a chance to fulfill a dream what will it be and why? I said that my wish is to spend a day with my Nanay, to talk and hear her voice, to see her smile and most of all, be embraced by her loving arms. I truly miss you, mother.

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REBECCA “BECKY” BURMAN

Mother’s Day

For me, Mother’s Day is a day to be extra thankful for the blessing of being a mother to three great children, Generah (married to JP Torres), Harbey and Gervey and a wonderful grandmother to my granddaughter, Genekyle Torres. Each of them has been a joy for me since the day they were born. They have given me so much happiness.

I am also thankful because I was blessed with a wonderful, loving mother who carefully guided me through life. When I was a child, my mom always made me felt safe and protected, which resulted in me being an obedient daughter. I knew that my mom always knew what was best for me. I remember when she would accompany me on my commute to school. Later on, as I grew up and started working, she will be waiting

for me when it was time for me to leave work so that I wouldn’t have to go home by myself.

I have learned to be a good mom because of my mother’s example, and because of the things that she taught me. For that, I will always be grateful. I guess she knew what she was doing. I have learned so much from her. I couldn’t be more pleased with the way my children and granddaughter have turned out!

“Thank you, Lord, for another Mother’s Day, and may all the moms have many more Mother’s Day to come!”

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Suzanne Perez

Suzanne Perez is a 19-yearold girl with a multitude of ambitions. She is the reigning Miss Fullerton USA 2016, and will be representing the city of Fullerton at the 2017 Miss California USA pageant, a preliminary to Miss USA. Suzanne held the titles of Miss Asia Orange County Teen, Miss Philippines USA 2nd Runner Up, and Miss Follow The Dream.

She currently attends college, studying pre-med, with hopes of one day becoming a dermatologist.

She loves politics as well and has a dream of being in office someday.

Her other hobbies include playing the piano and guitar, going to Disneyland, and trying different cultural foods.

Be sure to show your support for Suzanne this December at the Miss California USA 2017!

A mother of 4 children, James (20), Suzanne (19), Matthew (10) and Alexandra (6), is an accomplished Family Nurse Practitioner. She works for one of the biggest hospitals in Southern California and works part time for two hospices as well. Much of her success is due to the love and support of her kids.

Venus

Macias Marin

Venus was born and raised in Bislig, Surigao Del Sur. Although she never owned a Barbie doll as a child because her parents thought it was unnecessary, her childhood was full of fun and great memories. Her family’s financial challenges didn’t stop her from dreaming big. Her oldest sister, Rigel, helped the family financially, and with that help, Venus finished her Bachelor of Science Nursing degree in 1995. She got married that same year, had her first child, left for the US the following year. Her second child was born in 1997. She became a stay-at-home mom. She moved to California from Oklahoma when her husband, a US Army, was deployed.

When her marriage ended, she went back to work, got her LVN license after a year, and then became a Registered Nurse.

She remarried in 2007 and birthed two more children. She went back to school for her

MANILA UP! 13 Masters in Nursing Family NP program while her third child was still a toddler. She was determined to get her Masters degree that she pleaded with her OB to discharge her the following day after giving birth to her third child so that she can attend class. She did her clinical rounds the following week while experiencing postpartum pain and discomfort.

Venus, a busy mom, manages her household successfully and cares for her children while working full time. She makes time for her kids despite her busy schedule. Her Saturdays are reserved for her younger children, taking them to their lessons. She also shows her support for her daughters, Suzanne, and Alex whenever they have fashion shows and pageants. Her friends call her a stage mom because she hasn’t missed any of Suzanne’s pageants and appearances! Her husband, Jojo, runs their family owned restaurant, Musubi Monster, located in Orange, CA. If you visit the restaurant, don’t be surprised to see Venus at the cash register! Cliché as it may seem, Venus is indeed a supermom in the eyes of her children and friends!

Happiness

14 MANILA UP! “Don’t judge a book by its cover.” A phrase that came to mind as I recall my brief conversation with Dr. Maria Cecilia Aluning, DDS. She mentioned that at first sight, people will assume that she’s unapproachable, but once they

By Anette Bacani A. come to know her, they find out that she’s this easy going together, her way of de-stressing from person with a bubbly personality working so hard, putting in long who is so easy to get along with. Her hours at work. She loves to travel and friends even dubbed her as a ‘jack to sing and dance as well. of all trades’ because she can adapt

She loves to network. well to any situation. Maricel, as she She takes pleasure in helping and is known to her friends and family, is very down-to-earth, likes to enjoy life educating people on how to have a healthy lifestyle. She is well-loved to the fullest. She loves to hang out by her patients. They know that she with friends; they have this Tuesday cares for their well-being and that she friend night, where they spend time only wants the best for them. For her, having fun ‘it’s all about her patients’ needs.’

Maricel finished High School at the age of 14 then migrated to the US in 1980, to Las Vegas, to be with her family. She started college at a tender age of 15, taking up computer science, then, she shifted her course to nursing. But after a while, she realized that nursing was not the right profession for her. She went back to the Philippines in 1986, studied Dentistry at Centro Escolar University, graduated in 1992, then went back to Las Vegas. She had a hard time finding work in Las Vegas, so she decided to move to California.

She worked as a Dental Assistant in her uncle’s practice in Carson, while taking her board exams, and finally got her license in 1998. When her uncle decided to retire, she acquired the dental practice, which her husband, Godofredo “Gody,” manages now.

She credits her husband for being there for them, always supportive of everyone in the family; and her in-laws for helping watch over the kids.

Maricel’s faith in God is evident in the way she looks at life always in a positive way. If ever she faces any challenges, any stressful situations in life, on top of being

is a way of life

a dentist, which is a very stressful profession in itself, she will turn to God for guidance, and she’ll be ready to face the world again. Turning to Him gives her strength, inner peace, and happiness, and the chance to regroup. Negativity doesn’t have a place in her daily existence. She is not confrontational if ever there is any conflict that arises.

God has blessed Gody and Maricel with three beautiful children, Jacqueline - 18, Jillian - 17, and Gody Jerico (Gj) - 14. Although very much involved in her career, Maricel makes sure that she gets to spend her free time and weekends with her children, going to church or just plain having fun. Her children are aware that the long hours she spends at work is due to her desire to give them a better life. She works hard so that her children will have a better future.

Despite her busy schedule, she still finds the time to be supportive and involved in her children’s activities. She takes comfort in knowing that her kids are well-adjusted and well-rounded individuals. They know that they can come to her for help and advice anytime, or just to talk if they need someone to listen. She is never lacking in reminding them to be responsible, while enjoying life, and she makes sure that they know their limitations.

Her children are her “Why.” She draws strength in the knowledge that what she does, she does for them.

Maricel is a mother who does, and will do everything for her children’s welfare. A mother deserving of our salute!

For all your dental needs, please visit: www.carsondentalcares. com

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Don’t wait for an emergency to call us. Routine dental care is less expensive than if you “Wait ‘Till It Hurts!”

---Dr. Maria Aluning

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Come in to experience the MANY services our office provides.

• If you’re fearful of needles, we have Dental Vibe, a new • PAIN-FREE device that gently numbs the area of the mouth being administered • Dentures and Dental Implants replace missing teeth, improving your smile, as well as your ability to eat and talk.

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Carson Dental Care Dr. Maria Cecilia Aluning 240 West Carson Street Carson, CA 90745 Tel: (310)341-4618 www.carsondentalcares.com

We also accept: Interest Free Fnancing and 100% Financing Options Available!

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E

lena Lapid

“Behind every great man is a woman,” they say. Well, I say, behind every great woman is a greater mom. You may say ‘Of course, every person is born out of a mom.’ I beg to differ. Yes, every woman has the capacity to be a mother, but it takes a great deal of courage, patience, sacrifice, and understanding, – to be a “mom.”

This is why I owe a great

deal of who I am now to my mom, Juana Cruz Lapid. She raised all eleven of her children, with me as the eighth, and still managed to make our family as close-knit as possible.

Being married to a minister and she, herself, being a deaconess in our church, Iglesia Ni Cristo, drove her to raise a family having God at its center.

This strong influence carried over to me as I grew up in the church. I was an active choir member from my teen years until I married my first and only boyfriend, Engineer Alfonso Salonga Jr at the age of eighteen.

We migrated to the USA and was blessed with three beautiful children: Allen, Michael, and Jennifer. I kept in mind the values and ideals of my mother and strove to impart these to my children as well. Eventually, I was further blessed by having three amazing grandchildren: Leilah, Kaelyn Elena, and Miko Jun. Now, at the age of 60 with a flourishing food business in the states, I can’t help but argue that the greatest success there is to have does not lie in material wealth or in fleeting riches, but in the gift of family. Being a mother is definitely the best blessing I’ve ever been given.

Doris Iglesias

Success seems to be the norm in the life of Doris Iglesias. In her early life as a student in elementary school, she was always chosen to represent her school in the academic contest among other local elementary schools in her district, and she and her three other team members bested the teams from other schools. She carried this trait as she grew up while helping her mother in her retail business, and finishing her high school and college education.

In 1965, she decided to go to America to pursue a Masters degree in business administration in San Francisco, California. Her first job was as a teller at Bank of America while going to school. Doris fell in love with the way of life, the culture and the challenges that came her way that she decided to stay for good and applied as a permanent resident, and later on, as an American citizen in the early 70’s. She settled down in Los Angeles and married Jose whom she met while both were going for their MBA at Golden Gate University. They moved to the city of Cerritos in 1972 and had lived there for the last 44 years.

Service to her community and a generous heart are among the many attributes of Doris Iglesias.

Since 1978, she has given back to her community through her work with the Philippine Society of Southeast Los Angeles (PHILSELA), whose goals are to participate in civic, charitable, religious, educational, and philanthropic activities in Southern California. Doris exemplifies these goals with humility and helps make better lives possible for others. Before she retired, Doris worked as a Senior Vice President of Maritime Bank in the 1990’s. Her educational background prepared her for a career in banking. She graduated with a BS in Accounting degree from the University of the East in the Philippines. Early on in her profession, she attended the Graduate School of Bank Investments at the University of Illinois and was awarded a Certificate

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of Completion.

In 1993, Doris was invited, along with her husband Jose to attend former President Ronald Reagan’s 82nd birthday celebration at the Presidential Library in Simi Valley. His special guest for that occasion was the former Prime Minister of England, Margaret Thatcher. Doris and her spouse were the only invited Filipino couple among the 500 guests who came to celebrate President Reagan’s birthday. The former President of the United States was a client of Doris when she was working as a senior executive for Maritime Bank in Century City.

Other notable events that occurred was her attendance at the opening of the Reagan Library, with the presence of the five living Presidents, and the 80th birthday of President Reagan in 1991.

Doris has served on the Cerritos Property Preservation Commission and is currently serving in the Cerritos Fine Arts and Historical Commission as Vice Chairman. She has done everything; from singing in the choir at St. Bernard’s Church in Bellflower, to helping as a sponsor in a benefit concert following the devastation in the Philippines from Hurricane Haiyan.

Another highlight in her life was recognized and given an award

by Assemblymember Cristina Garcia in 2016, at the Pride 58 Gala held at Bicycle Hotel and Casino in Bell Gardens; to honor her and other awardees for making positive impacts within the 58th Assembly District.

It was an honor given to her for inspiring other people, serving them and doing “good” without even being asked.

Her most important role, however, is being a mother and an adviser to her son, Paul, who currently lives with his wife, Arlyn, in the city of Long Beach, and being a loving and caring wife to her husband, Jose.

18 MANILA UP!

Marc Anthony Nicolas is the host and executive producer of the first Filipino American Hollywood celebrity talk show, “The On Your Marc Show.” The weekly show airs exclusively on Lifestyle Network, a premium channel of TFC. Nicolas is a fivetime Emmy nominee for “The Talk” on CBS. This catapulted him into

MANILA UP! 19

becoming a sought-after producer to dominate the talk show industry, a career that now spans a decade of innovation on TV. He began his career at “The Tyra Banks Show,� FOX and MTV. He has worked with Sharon Osbourne, Denise Richards, Vivica A. Fox, Christina Milian, Lance Bass, Marie Osmond, Carnie Wilson and many others

20 MANILA UP! When I think about my mother, I feel the strength behind the sacrifices a mother makes.

While still in her womb, my mother worked as a singer in a band where my father played as the organist. Their relationship ended, and when I was born, she eventually had to entrust my care to her grandmother while she had to work abroad. When she returned, she provided a comfortable life for us with a nice home and school for me to attend.

Elizabeth

Teodoro Del Rosario

By Sheryll Tolentino-Mantilla

My mother and I did not have a close relationship as I grew up. I often wondered why.

As I grew older, I learned that she had an abusive childhood that pushed her to work at a very tender age of 15. That was all I needed to know to understand my mother.

When I was 19, I rededicated my life to God. God restored me and my relationship with my mother. We even went through a healing seminar called Ancient Paths where we asked for each other’s forgiveness. Ever since my mother and

I started a new level of friendship I had always longed for.

To date, my mother and I share life, faith and experiences with one another like best friends do.

She is the strongest woman I know, though she cries easily at telenovelas and Tagalog movies. She does her best to help anybody whatever their background. She’s a giver and sometimes not a very good receiver, so some people tend to abuse her kindness and trusting nature, but God always restores her blessings.

My brothers, Anton, Miggy, and Beau are blessed to have her as our mother. She still does everything she can to help us in life. Her compassion always moves her sacrifice, take risks and even if she falls, she never gives up. That’s our mother, Elizabeth Del Rosario Siquian and love everything about her.

Happy Mother’s Day, Ma! We love you very much!

Our mission statement is to help as many families and individuals live the American dream by owning real estate property. We pride ourselves on giving excellent service, and we hope our clients understand.

To us, our report card is when we hand the key over and see the smiling faces of our clients, also when they give out referrals that they can share with them that we know we did our job well.

It is more than just selling a home; it’s being available to our clients before and after the sale. And if they have any questions regarding real estate, they can call us anytime.

Our goal is to be their family realtor, so if anyone needs our help, our expertise, our experience, we are always there to help them answer their question. We are always working; it is not just when in escrow, or when showing houses do we give information. We want to provide information to all the people, so when they are ready to enter the market, they know as much as possible about the process so they can make an intelligent decision before they sign on the dotted lines.

Q: How were you able to keep up with the trend in real estate during the downfall and the boom, how were you able to manage all these years?

A: We are very optimistic. Southern California is one of the most desirable areas to live in. Approximately 20 million people live in Southern California; they are people who wants to sell and people who wants to buy. We spend more time in advertising, calling our old clients, working with the banks.

During the time when many real estate agents were getting out of the business, we are thriving. We work longer hours and do what is necessary for a client. Just because the market is down, the market is not close. We are very optimistic; we look at opportunities to help the people.

Q: How do you analyze and foresee the market in 5 years?

MANILA UP! 21

Daniel and Irene McGhee FIRST TEAM REAL ESTATE

A: There are a lot of new constructions in Southern California. Normally when there are new constructions, new homes, that is an indication that the market is pretty stable, and there are not enough homes for sale. So what we see in the market are multiple offers on properties. We advise our clients on what to do in order to be successful in making an offer. Basically, it is the desirability, to do everything possible to ensure their offer is the most desirable and the best terms.

22 MANILA UP!

Photos by Phillip Ner Photography Makeup by Michelle Molina

Elna Villaflor’s achievements in life, be it academic excellence, business acumen, beauty pageant awards, cannot compare to her “ultimate crowning achievement,” her love for her son. She is not only a mother to a son whom she loves without measure; Elna is also a mother to the patients that she cares for, to her employees whom she teaches and guides, to the relatives counting on her responsible nature and the underdogs who sought comfort in the knowledge that she got their back.

The happiness and excitement in her voice were exhilarating as I listen to her recount the memories of her childhood. It was refreshing to hear someone talk with so much passion and love. Her descriptions were so vivid that I was able to transport myself to another place and time. It really was a treat getting this kind of perspective from someone.

The youngest in the family, Elna identifies herself as a barrio girl, having been brought up in a small town in Nueva Ecija, by her grandparents. She recalls the “paradise” where she grew up in. The guava tree she used to climb on, book in hand, to avoid the geese that were always after her. I can easily picture it in my mind, a girl on a branch of a guava tree, avidly reading, in the middle of a garden, surrounded by fragrant flowers, sampaguitas, magnolias, and the like, and a variety of Philippine fruit trees that you can think of.

Her dedication and perseverance were influenced by her mom’s (sleep at 1 am, up at 4 or 5 am to meet the demands of running their family businesses, poultry farm, and piggery) example. She was very responsible and quite matured from a young age, so she was entrusted to assist in the running of their family business. She even had the chance to deliver a piglet; and try to envision this, a young girl, knife in hand, butchering a chicken. What a sight, right?

Comics magazines whetted Elna’s interest in reading at an early age, which resulted in her teachers giving her the responsibility of watching over the class and teaching her classmates how to read, whenever they have to leave the classroom. She was also the girl brave enough to defend her delicate schoolmates from the bullies in school. She got the scare of her life when she got called to the principal’s office and was told that she wouldn’t graduate because she led the whole class to cut class! Such leadership ability! She brought them to their mango farm to eat mangoes when they should be in school. I couldn’t envision her doing such a thing, she looked so demure and well-behaved, based on looking at her pictures. The girl who always excelled in her studies. Those were the days, happy memories, blessed memories.

Elna has such a strong personality. Even her sister couldn’t sway her into taking a course that she didn’t like.

She is so determined in doing what she wanted to do, so she won’t have anybody to blame but herself if things don’t work out.

Driven with Compassion MANILA UP! 23

By Antonette B. Ang

Coming from the province, she was intimidated at first, when she attended college in Manila, the University of Santo Tomas. She overcame the struggle soon enough when she gained friends and her social life developed. Her then boyfriend, Ernesto Moreno, whom she married eventually, took her to see the first ever live concert that she watched, Eric Clapton, at the Araneta Coliseum. Live concerts and going to the movies with friends after exams, became her escape from the challenges of her degree, Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. Pictures of heart throbs would decorate her book covers. She is a wellrounded person, and she’s not afraid to try anything.

She was actually into Van Halen, Guns n’ Roses, and the like, way back then. Another fun fact.

Ernie and Elna were blessed with a son, Alan Duane Moreno, who became her whole world. She was a hands-on mom, although working during the day, as soon as work is done, all her time will be devoted to him. Stays up all night when he’s sick, drops off and picks him up from school, and takes him to the library after school, will borrow books, which she forgets to return on time and will get fined for. They will read together when they get home. Alan developed his love for reading then. She supported him in every activity that he was involved in, even taking swimming lessons with him (unfortunately, she never learned how to swim). Even when out with friends, she wouldn’t eat her food so that she can bring it home to him, who is patiently waiting for her, and of course, the food to get home. Picturing that lovely scene puts a smile on my face. He is her strength.

She is never lacking in reminding her son to “not wander away from God for He is the only One Who can help us. To live a balanced life, to discover what you are passionate about, what you love, find a way to provide service and help others. To work hard, but never forget to enjoy life. And do whatever it is that makes you happy.” All grown up now, a man set to make a difference in the world by becoming a doctor, currently taking his residency in Chicago, he doesn’t lack in showing his dear mother just how much he loves her. Shows his concern for her health and wellbeing, always there for her whenever she needed care, one instance of which was when she had to attend a conference in Europe and thought of giving up her space because of health issues. He not only encouraged her to go, but even went with her and took care of her.

That is truly something a mom can treasure forever; this shows such love and devotion, nothing can top that. Such strong bond between mother and son. “The

way we’ve raised our kids is evident in the care and the love they have for us.”

The patience and guidance her teachers have shown her, the love and support from her family, the faith in God instilled by her parents and the church, are what helped form the person that she is right now.

She never forgot her mother’s advice, “Nene, you trust your instinct, that is your inner voice, it will guide you.”

Although she started her business with the purpose of devoting her time to her child and taking care of her aging parents, it evolved into something more worthwhile, touching more lives. Life has so much to offer this sweet soul, but she chose to serve.

Always putting her patients first, which, I’ve had the privilege to witness (we had to reschedule her interview a number of times because of her concern for her patients’ well-being). I admire that kind of loyalty and empathy. She has to be where she is needed the most, and that’s where you will find her. We can learn a lot from such display of care and dedication.

Life can get overwhelming to someone who has so much relying on her, but in Elna’s case, she survives regardless of everything, and she survives with flying colors. She doesn’t know what else is in store for her in the future, but one thing’s for sure – wherever she goes, whatever endeavor she pursues next in life, whatever she puts her mind into, her drive, compassion, endurance, and dedication will surely go with her. I don’t know her personally but I was inspired by her story! Her life is indeed an inspiration!

Her driven life full of compassion.

24 MANILA UP!

A surprising Hermès party Earnest Snoops by ERNEST GONZAGA MANILA UP May Edition

Tess Schoefer, Leo Valdes, and Lilibeth Campos

Queenie Gee, Serla Russel, Agile Zamora and Tokie Tantoco

Chery Tiu, Crystal Cunningham and Duday Tuason

Manila’s high-end Hermès store had a luxury launch and opened its home section on the second floor of its Makati Avenue flagship store recently. The second-level home section by Maison is kind a bit small by its standards, but what it needs in space, makes up for with the opulent choices. It comprises of the top sellers of Hermès Maison worldwide from the understated Pantographe desk lamp to the Canaletto walnut desk.

Since the newly-opened space can’t hold an after-cocktail reception, the upper crust guests

Serla Russel, Marian Ong Nuguid, Agile Zamora and Ofelia Wadle

MANILA UP! 25

Duday Tuaso, Linda Ley, Maurice Arcache, Agile Zamora and Nikki Tang

Melo Esguerra and Cristalle Belo Henares

Tess Schoefer, Agile Zamora, Serla Russel , Leo Valdez and Ofelia Wadle

were transported aboard a comfy bus from the store to guess where? To an unspecified destination.

The guests were brought to the nearby park in San Lorenzo Village, into an amazingly adorned tented basketball court cum air-conditioner.

The court was altered into a swanky and stylish hall. It was beautified with a white drape to conceal the ceiling employed by theatrical lighting with contemporary vibrant cut paperboards figures all over.

The A-list guests relished cocktail food served from tofu to steaks, and endless pour of wines.

International theater artist Leo Valdez entertained the crowd with the live playing the ‘80s music to date.

Hats off once more to Mario Katigbak who was responsible for the very well organized affair.

Ofelia Wadle, Nikki Tang and Yoli Ayson

Marissa Fenton, Yoli Ayson, Agile Zamora, Roi Philips adn Lilibeth Campos

Philip Cu-unjieng and Issa Litton

26 MANILA UP!

Dr. Lana Wania-Galicia, MD.

Entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and inspiration to small and medium enterprises, Dr. Lana Wania-Galicia, had made a name for herself as both a very successful entrepreneur and a doctor. “The challenge for many entrepreneurs is how we can make the whole organization think and move at the same pace and toward the same vision.” Women are natural entrepreneurs because of our hardworking nature. We have powerful incentives to venture into business for our future and the

future of our family.”

Dr. Lana was born and raised in Santiago, Isabela, Philippines. Lana has been married to Thomas Galicia, Jr, a registered nurse and a businessman, for 24 years. Tom and Lana were blessed with four beautiful kids, Sophia Gabrielle, Michael Angelo, Raphael Tomas and Arielle Galicia, who are all gifted academically, in music and the arts. She is most passionate about being a wife to her husband, mother to her kids, daughter to her parents, sister to her siblings and servant to her mission work for ANCOP, (Answering Cry for the Poor).

A scholar and a multitalented doctor with a long list of academic achievements, awards, trophies, she is also an active member of the UST Medicine Glee Club and Terpsichorian Medical Dance Group. She loves to sing, dance and play musical instruments such as the piano, drums, organ, guitar, and “ bandurria .”

Currently, she is in private practice as an anesthesiologist and pain management specialist in Thousand Oaks and Simi Valley, CA. She is the President, owner and Chief Medical Officer of Arroyo Vista Pain Specialists, Inc. and currently partner/owner of Urgent Hospice Care.

MANILA UP! 27

Arroyo Vista Advanced Pain Specialists, Inc. Lana Louie A. Wania-Galicia, M.D.

www.ovapsi.com

Anesthesiology and Pain Management 865 Patriot Drive, Suite 201A Moorpark, CA 93021-3405

Phone: 805.222.4549 Fax: 805.529.4549

28 MANILA UP!

Celebrating On the Wings of Love

In Other Worlds

by Becky Garcia

The always-fashionable Czarina Ablaza-Syquia, the only daughter of Honorary Consuls Louie and Mellie Ablaza, held an intimate birthday dinner with family and close friends at her home.

For the attire, guests were requested to be clad in stylish and fun blue and white pieces – perfect colors to match the summer season.

Czarina’s frock was one of the latest pieces from the H&M Conscious

collection that was recently launched in Manila. Each table was decorated with lovely floral arrangements and giant bird cages.

In each cage were colorful lovebirds paired together to symbolize an abundance of love. The concept came from Czarina’s admiration for the successful local tv series, “On The Wings Of Love”.

Decors were thoughtfully placed together by Czarina’s brother, artcessories designer and event stylist, Jun Jun Ablaza. The menu included a delectable

MANILA UP! 29

roast pig, to a fantastic Spanish feast that included a scrumptious paella and jamon among others.

Czarina’s husband, Dr. Jofe Syquia, welcomed and entertained guests, along with their five children, Alfonso, Agu, Azi, Amanu, and Azia. Guests that evening included Czarina’s brother, businessman Marc Ablaza, publicist Tedrick Yau, businesswomen Cookie LimCaedo , Eve Yukimtiao and Sheree Chua, Consuls Helen Ong and Evie Costa, and her mother-in-law Letty Syquia.

Meanwhile, NeoStrata’s Skin Active Triple Firming Neck Cream, the “most advanced antiLeft photos (Clockwise): 1. Boysie Villavincencio, Evie Costa, Rose Lazaro, Helen Ong , Czarina Syquia, Mellie & Louie Ablaza 2. Cookie Caedo, Kathy Yu, Eve Yukimtiao, Marita Pe Benito, Jane Barreiro, Moca Dator , Monette Occeseno, Beth & Tommy Syquia 3. Gel and Chris Magno with Jofe Syquia 4. Guia Suyao , Czarina Syquia and Rommel Trinidad 5. Helen Ong, Sheree Chua, Jen Albano and Czarina Ablaza 6. Jane Barreiro, Monette Occeseno, Yeye Palugod, Moca Dator, Czarina Syquia, Monday Gonzales and Marita Pe Benito 7. Junjun Ablaza, Boysie Villavicencio, Jett Carpio, Ian Reyno, Czarina Syquia & Jurrish Sledge 8. Kiara, Kaela, Tommy, Beth, Kenda and Keane Syquia 9. Moca Dator, Jane Barreiro, Marita Pe Benito and Eileen Tecson 10. Mylyn Aumentado, Czarina Syquia, Tommy Syquia, Hannah Navato, Leah Zaldarriaga, Joel Syquia and Beth Syquia

aging neck cream,” was introduced recently to a group composed of the country’s top dermatologists. The dinner symposium that centered on rejuvenating beauty products was held at the Balesin Islander restaurant located inside The City Club in Makati City.

Manufactured by USbased NeoStrata, the highperformance, clinically-proven product is distributed locally by D’Mark Multisales Corporation, a market leader in the distribution of anti-aging skin care headed

by Nikki Tang as CEO. Makati Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology residency training program residents’ selection committee chairperson Dr. Lucia Lourdes Castro-Fores was guest speaker Top Photos: 1. DermAsia Corporation and D’Mark Multisales Corporation CEO Nikki Tang with Makati Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology residency training program residents’ selection committee chairperson Dr. Lucia Lourdes Castro-Fores 2. Dr. Anna Palabyab-Rufino and Dr. Raissa Pasion 3. (Seated from left) Dr. Trixie Carpo, Dr. Mary Anne Amon, Dr. Carmela Lim, (standing from left) Cathy Pascual, Dr. Theresa Pascual, Dr. Stephen Lacson, Dr. Katrina Canlas, Dr. Corrina Tiu- Dy , and Makati Medical Center’s Department of Dermatology residency training program residents’ selection committee chairperson Dr. Lucia Lourdes Castro-Fores 4. Nelson Yuvilla, Jayelles’ Roselle Rebano,

DermAsia Corporation and D’Mark Multisales Corporation CEO Nikki Tang, Karen Agustin-Ostrea, and Jayelles’ Ina Bugayong 5. Dr. Z Teo, Dr. Lucia Lourdes CastroFores, Dr. Aivee Teo, Medical City’s Dr. Cherry Salipsip, and St. Luke’s Global City’s Dr. Maria Deanna Ramiscal 6. (Standing from left) Dr. Clare Palabyab and daughter Dr. Anna Palabyab-Rufino with their mentors (seated from left), Makati Medical Center and Asian Hospital’s Dr. Filomena Legarda-Montinola, Research Insitute for Tropical Medicine and Asian Hospital’s Dr. Ma. Teresita Gabriel 7. Dr. Sharon Tepeng and Dr. Zharlah Gulmatico-Flores 8. Dr. Marla Tamayo, DermAsia Corporation and D’Mark Multisales Corporation CEO Nikki Tang, Dr. Teresa Pangan, and May Guillermo 9. Dr. Ramon Reyes with his daughter Dr. Timmy Reyes and wife Dr. Tessie Reyes and Dr. Maria Beatriz Lagos

30 MANILA UP!

THE PHILIPPINES’

2016 ALIWAN FESTIVAL

By ERNEST L. GONZAGA

T

he Philippines’ grandest fiesta “Aliwan Festival 2016” reeled-off recently at the Star City Complex in Pasay City organized by Manila Broadcasting Company (MBC) together with the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) and the cities of Manila and Pasay.

An annual event just as most of the Philippines festivals are, Aliwan is all about celebrating the diverse culture of the locals. The fiesta brought together multiple festivals. Due to the sheer magnitude of the fiesta, the city throngs with culture enthusiasts and other travellers.

Suffice to say, the fiesta was referred to as the ‘Mother of all festivals’.

The fiesta not only brought together large numbers of tourists, it was also an adventure of sorts if the competitions and prize money are anything to go by.

Started in 2003, the fiesta has grown to be a household name and a must-attend for those who love all things cultural. The aim of Aliwan Festival is to promote the different cultures in the country, not just to its own people, but to tell the story to the rest of the world.

In fact, the name ‘Aliwan’ translates to entertainment in the local dialect. It is no surprise therefore, that the fiesta lives up to its name.

The fiesta was divided into three categories, and these included the Float Parade, the Beauty Pageant as well as the Cultural Street Dance contest. The latter was the most popular category, and is characterized with pomp and color.

Gleaming with championship smiles, the jubilant members of Catbalogan City’s Tribu Katbalaugan took home with them pride and honor as back-to-back champion in the Aliwan Fiesta 2016.

Showcasing the city’s Manaragat Festival, the more than 400-strong Tribu Katbalaugan contingent with its explosive and dynamic dance routine successfully defended its title against seven other contingents including the early crowd favorite, the Dinagyang Festival of Iloilo City.

Aside from winning the Championship Title this year, Tribu Katbalaugan also romped away with the Best in Musicality and Best in Costume awards, while its

Festival Queen Lou Piczon landed as one of the three 2nd runner-up winners in this year’s Reyna ng Aliwan competition. They landed first runner-up during the Sinulog Festival 2016 in Cebu City.

Meanwhile, Sinulog Festival Queen Cynthia Thomalla won the Reyna ng Aliwan crown as well as Best in Festival Costume, Best in Evening Gown, Best in Swimsuit and Miss Photogenic.

Thomalla’s win marked the seventh time that Cebu’s bets won the Reyna ng Aliwan award since

they first joined in 2009.

In the float category, the underwater themed float of International Pharmaceuticals (IPI) bagged the top prize at the Aliwan, a first for Cebu. (Photos by Marz Mayrena/Paulos Aragon/Images

MANILA UP! 31

Asia)

32 MANILA UP!

About Mothers

Models: Jo Yu & John Philip Yu Photo: NY Creative Studio

On the beat

by Fe P. Koons

I always get crazy when the phone card that I use tells me that I only have five minutes left to speak with my mother in the Philippines. I am an only child.

My mother Lila is past 80. Often times, I could not imagine how painful it would be to lose one’s mother.

But for the mothers who truly love their children --- the sorrow of death is agonizing. Last April 13, Justin Uy, only 18, was shot at Dolores and 228th St in Carson. He was on life support since the shooting. April 20, the doctors said that Justin’s brain will not function. Justin, who studies at Carson High, is one of the top volleyball players in the South Bay. He is supposed to graduate this coming June.

On my facebook account, I saw the urn of the ashes of the wife of my close friend. Her stepdaughter said, “I will remember my special mom. I will remember the call just to say, Hi, the love she gave my girls, the many laughs...”

I gave birth to my only son when I was 42.

There was this almost distressing discussion, more so like upsetting arguments on whether I should have this baby or not. My eldest daughter was then seven years old. I looked my husband straight in the eye and courageously told him, “It is too bad that I am the one who gets pregnant, who will bear this child, who will breastfeed in the wee hours of the morning and who will raise him to learn the important values of freedom and justice!” Jesse is now turning 21 in November.

For single mothers, the conditions are far more challenging. According to U.S. Census Bureau, out of about 12 million single parent families in 2014, more than 80% were headed by single mothers. Today 1 in 4 children under the age of 18 – a total of 17.4 million – are being raised without a father and nearly half (45%) live below the poverty line.

According to the National Women’s Law Center, if a single mother is able to work, her earning power still lags significantly compared with men’s, about 78 cents to a $1 for the same job --- leaving a wage gap of 23 cents on the dollar. The USDA reported that single mothers often spend over half of their income on housing expenses and a third on child care, leaving them with less money for educational expenses. Without financial aid, single mother students --- a total of 2 million --- have little or no means to contribute financially to their educational expenses.

Indeed, mothers are the sunshine, rainbow after the storm. Being a mother means that your heart is no longer yours; it wanders wherever your children do. As Anna Rogers wrote in The Atlantic Monthly, “Mothers are the gardeners of the human race!”

Dahl Bravo

By Danielle Viray

What is a mother? To me, a mother is someone who can take the place of all others, but whose place no one else can take. Someone who loves you unconditionally until her last breath, who makes many sacrifices of their wants and needs, for the wants and needs of their children. Takes the time to listen to you and understand you. She’s there to pick you up and push you to continue and do your best.

There is no perfect way to be a good mother, each mother has different challenges, different skills and abilities, and certainly different children, but what matters truly is that a mother loves her children deeply. All of these things are what I see in my mother.

My mother’s name is Gilster Dahl Bravo, she was born on October 27, 1971, she graduated from Pasay City Academy in 1988, and later on from Adventist University of the Philippines achieving a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree.

After this great accomplishment, she had worked at LAPD, Sherriff ’s Department, and Glendale Adventist Hospital. Years later, she had decided that her real passion was to work in aesthetics and to open up her own business. She had gotten her experience at Estela Skin Care and had also worked at Dermaphil Laser and Skin Care Center. After all of her hard work she was able to open up not one, but two branches that are still in business today, which is Dahl Aesthetic Skin Care.

My mother had accomplished all of this while having to raise and provide for a daughter, me. My mom made many sacrifices, from carrying me for nine months, long and painful hours of labor, and doing her best to give me everything I wanted and needed, no matter how

long she had to work. She worked day and night just to put a roof over my head, food on the table, clothes for me to wear, and she also sent me to a private school which provided me with good education and a relationship with God. Not only did she provide for me, but she was there to care for me when I was sick, attended all my basketball and volleyball games, brought me to my doctors’ appointments, school concerts, award ceremonies, picked me up from school every day, etc.

My mom is loved by many people, not only did I see what an amazing, kind, and loving person my mom is, but even my friends at school look at her as their second mom. They would come to her seeking advice and comfort, and whenever they saw her, they would all have big smiles on their faces. My relationship with my mom was like what best friends would have, I could tell her so many things without being worried about being judged or insulted, but instead she listens and helps me through everything. I was once asked by a friend what or who brought me happiness or made my day whenever I was down, and I answered without any hesitation that it was my mom. My mom was more than a mom to me, she played with me like a sister, talked to me like a friend, counseled me as a therapist, taught me as a teacher, guided me as a mentor, and loved me like only a mom can. I believe that God blesses us with many gifts, but I believe that the greatest gift that He gave all of us is a mother. And I can never be thankful enough for being blessed with a mother like mine. Happy Mother’s Day to all Mothers out there, especially mine.

MANILA UP! 33

34 MANILA UP!

Aurora is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a Roman goddess of dawn” or “a luminous phenomenon that consists of streamers or arches of light appearing in the upper atmosphere of a planet’s magnetic polar region.”

Aurora Belderol fits these definitions perfectly. She is a phenomenal light to her three children and six grandchildren. She is a goddess in their eyes, beautiful inside and out. As a successful piano teacher for the last 40 years, her love for music has inspired not only her family, but also the hundreds of students she has taught. Aurora knew that playing classical music was her passion at the young age of 5. As an introvert, music was her outlet for self-expression, which shaped her into the amazing woman and entrepreneur she is today.

Aurora BEDEROL

Aurora was born in Tagbilaran, Bohol, the youngest child of Mayor Pedro Belderol and Felicitas Butalid Belderol. She had two older brothers, Arthur, and Peter, who always looked out for her all their lives. She finished her Bachelor’s Degree in Music at the College of the Holy Spirit in Manila. She started her teaching career at the Yamaha School of Music in Manila and lived in Paranaque with her husband and three children.

In 1985, they immigrated to the U.S. She was sponsored by St. Martha’s Catholic Church in La Puente, California to be their church pianist and school music teacher.

She has played in hundreds of weddings, funerals, masses, school plays, recitals, and concerts. She established her music studio, Rising Stars Performing Arts in 2002, where she continues to teach piano. She also offers classes in guitar, violin, saxophone, drums, dance, voice, and musical theater. It’s a family based business, where her children are very involved, and her grandchildren take classes.

They have all been blessed with Aurora’s musical talents and have found their individual passion for music. Aurora is proud to say that her greatest accomplishment is seeing her children live fulfilling lives by following their true purpose. She stated, “Through Rising Stars Performing Arts, it is my desire that by spreading my love for music, I may touch others’ lives as well.”

MANILA UP! 35

Have you ever thought of being a star?

I’m here to help!

Rising Stars

Music Performing Arts 18856 Amar Rd., Suite 2 Walnut, CA 91789 Tel: 626.854.2091 Cell: 626.512.5393 Email: aurorarisingstar@aol.com www.risingstarsperformingarts.com Aurora Belderol Directress & Piano Teacher

36 MANILA UP!

I wish I could say that I had a “normal” childhood. Growing up as a child in San Juan, the Philippines, my mom had to work abroad in order feed us because she had been separated from my father. This meant that I fell into the care of my grandmother in my early years. She would take me to school, make lunch for me and do most of the things that moms do - and she did it very well. I will Reflections of Hope certainly treasure all my moments spent with her. But even though

by Rev. R.D. Quema my mom was far away, our home was always filled with anticipation when a letter, a package or any news came from overseas. Through her hard work, she enabled us to survive and thrive. She may not have been physically there, but her presence was none the less felt because without her perseverance and dedication, we would not have had a roof on our heads for food on the table.

So when I became a follower of Jesus Christ, it was my primary mission in life to share God’s message of love in Christ to these two amazing women of my growing up years. My grandmother, Ma. Luisa Delgado Danao (Lola Isa to me and my family) and my mother, Ma. Luisa Marquita (Bujing) Danao Quema - Mom for short. The two most important days in my life are when, in turn, they each accepted Christ as their Lord and Savior.

My grandmother was first. Accepting Christ during a Sunday service at Word for the World Christian Fellowship in Makati. I was scheduled to sing a special number at church and I used it as bait to get her to come. While a very religious person, she wasn’t a regular church goer. But on that Sunday morning she came. As the choir sang and people began to worship, I noticed in the corner of my eye that she was slowly, almost naturally, raising her had in worship! My prayer was answered, but not in the way that I had anticipated. In my conversation with her when we got home she expressed how surprised she was at how the entire service reflected her true feelings for the God that she loved. There was no conflict here.

I had thought that she would observe a contrast especially coming from the Roman Catholic background. But my lola was an avid reader, she’s been around. But more than that, she was a praying woman. I believe that God, in His love for her, simply confirmed the faith she had and opened her eyes to the rest of the beauty of faith in Christ. In her final breath she continued to praise her Lord just as she had always done and became to me a constant inspiration of God’s grace and His mercy for us.

My mom took a longer time. It wasn’t until I was a pastor here in Los Angeles in one of her trips here, that she too, had an encounter with Christ. After one of our Bible Studies, which she had to attend because I was leading, we were headed home to Valencia.

In the car I began to ask her about her faith. I told her of a fear that I had with my father. You see, I never had the o a n a D opportunity Delgado Ma. Luisa to share the Gospel fully with him. I never had the chance to see the fruit of faith in him as we were apart for so long. Now that I had her here with me, I told her that I did not want to experience that same fear. I shared the Gospel with her: that our traditional Christian faith is based on a person who really lived and whose aim was not to simply give us a religion, but a relationship with God that would forgive us of all our sins and transform us into His image. When I offered her Christ, she accepted! By this time we were both in

tears and I had to park in a parking lot of a grocery store so we can have the prayer.

Since then, my mom has been home and has gone through many challenges and triumphs in the faith. I constantly remind her that God is the source of our strength and the purpose for our lives.

As a mother, she has never stopped being anxious for us. All her children have families and are doing well pursuing their call in life. Even though the odds were against her, she has persisted, persevered and kept enforcing in us, the precious value of family and fortitude.

I have been blessed with these two amazing women of my life. As I grew to be a man, a minister, a father, and husband, God has blessed me with a few more mothers who have inspired me and helped me to become the person that I am today. Foremost among them is my wife, Von. I met her when she was only eighteen years old. I joke around that I’ve practically raised her being four years her senior. Yet, the truth is, she has raised me. In prayer. I have never met any one who has spent more “knee time” with the Father than my wife. In raising our two children, prayer has been her number one weapon against the adversities and challenges that life brings. I continue to find strength and inspiration through her example of persistent prayer and faith.

In this month of May, we pause to give thanks to God for mothers.

Motherhood is a very challenging call. It is an evolving challenge. As our society changes, mothers have had to change and sacrifice, innovate and reinvent themselves in order to raise their kids.

They deserve our praise, affirmation and encouragement. As you consider the mothers that have touched your lives, you will see one consistent quality that I believe comes from our God. It is the quality of love. A mother’s love is unique, ever-binding and always persisting.

1 Corinthians 13:4–7 (ESV) 4 Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant 5 or rude.

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The Blessing of Motherhood

It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; 6 it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. 7 Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Through the mothers that God has put in our lives we see a glimpse of God’s unconditional love. The love that will never change in the passage of time. The love that invites you to relationships.

Isaiah 49:15–16 (NIV) 15 “Can a mother forget the baby at her breast and have no compassion on the child she has borne?

Though she may forget, I will not forget you! 16 See, I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me.

God’s love is the perfect love! His love was manifested in all its glory when He gave up His Son, Jesus Christ, to be the lamb of sacrifice that would bring all humanity, broken by their bondage to sin, back into a right relationship with Him. If you want to know more about this love, and you would like to experience that love of God, I invite you to get to know God, our Father, through the reading of His Word, the Bible. It is readily available. I also invite you to fellowship with believers and followers of Jesus Christ of which there are many around you.

I would also like to invite you to our church, NewHopeNaz Church located at 15055 Oxnard Street, Van Nuys, CA 91411. Our Sunday Experience begins at 2:00pm. Find out more at www.newhopenaz.com

Happy Mother’s Day!

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41 years. She currently works as a Branch Chief, managing the Cypress/ San Diego Enforcement Branch, Enforcement and Emergency Response Division, Hazardous Waste Management Program with California (CA) Environmental Protection Agency, Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC).

Prior to this position, she worked as an Associate Public Health Chemist with the CA Department of Health Services, Research Assistant with Estelle Doheny Eye Foundation, Los Angeles, and as College Chemistry Instructor at FEATI University, Manila.

Melette is a multi-awarded

Melette was born on January outstanding community leader, 4 in Batangas and grew up in shown by the following community Mandaluyong, Metro Manila. She involvements and awards received. has been involved in the Filipino All participations are voluntary community since 1992 and has been that require hours of time, hard into ballroom dancing since 1999. work, commitment, and money She likes to volunteer, not only in the to help improve both the Filipino Filipino community but also in the (here and abroad) and American City of Cerritos where she has been a communities. The city of Cerritos resident for 40 years now. She has two Appointee – Economic Development children and three grandchildren.

Commission, 2015; Let Freedom Her mother from Taysan Batangas, Ring Committee, University of the and father from Badiangan Iloilo are Philippines Alumni Association of now deceased. She has three brothers Greater Los Angeles (UPAAGLA) – and two sisters who all reside in Assistant Treasurer, 2015-16; Board of Southern California.

Director, 2013-2015, Vice President,

Melette is an intelligent 2007, Lifetime Member. Philippine individual and loves the search for Society of Southeast Los Angeles: knowledge, shown by her educational President- 1996, 1997; Chairman of background. She graduated the the Board-1995; Hermana Mayorvaledictorian from Bilogo Elementary Santacruzan 2011. Mandaluyong School in Taysan Batangas, With Civic Group of So CA – Member.

Highest Honors from Arellano

Past Member: ABC Unified University Plaridel High School in School District Personnel and Equal Mandaluyong Metro Manila, and an Employment Opportunity, ASEAN entrance scholar at the University of Ladies Circle of Los Angeles, Filipino the Philippines (UP), Quezon City, American Democrats of Cerritos, where she completed her Bachelor of Friends of the Cerritos Performing Science in Chemistry. She continued Arts Center, CA Hazardous Material her quest for knowledge by taking Investigators Association, Maharlika graduate studies in Chemistry at the Lions Club, Kiwanis Club, Cerritos University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Democratic Club, Sunnyside Public Education at the UP, and Optimist Club, Phil Independence obtained a Certificate in Management Centennial Coordinating Council of and Public Administration from the So CA. University of California, Los Angeles.

Melette’s awards included the

Melette is a career woman following: Profession: Outstanding and a public servant for the last Manager, CA Environmental

Protection Agency, DTSC; Plaque of Recognition and Appreciation – 25-year CA State Service; Certificate of Appreciation – Acting Branch Chief, DTSC Enforcement Program; Certificate of Appreciation – Mentor Program Participation Community: Woman of the Year Nominee, 1999,

Melette

Carmelita Espiritu Lampino CA Sate Assembly, 56th District; Thirteen Outstanding Professionals, Los Angeles 2000; Certificate of Recognition/Resolution, Community Service - CA State Assembly, 56th District; Certificate of` Recognition, Community Service CA State Senate, 27th District; City Proclamation, Community Service - City of Cerritos; Certificate of Appreciation, Community Service - ABC Unified School District and Philippine Consulate Office; Plaque of Commendation, Community Service - LA County Board of Supervisors; Philippine Heritage Institute “President’s Award;” Monet Reflections Community Service Award; Lizaso Pamana Community Leader Award; Celebrity Chronicle “Community Service and Environment” Awards; 100 Outstanding Filipino Americans in the USA.

Melette has also acquired the following titles: Mrs. RP USA 2000; Empress Helena, US-Phil Expo Santacruzan 2000; Pacific Dancesport 2002 Open American Rhythm Amateur Champion; Golden State Challenge Dancesport 2002, Open Master American Rhythm Amateur Champion.

Melette loves the art of poetry, theater, music, and dancing especially ballroom. She strongly believes in the power of God and prayer, the power of love, the power of hard work, and the power of the mind. She keeps her focus on the virtues and power of knowledge, truth, justice, humility, and always strives to be the best in everything she does. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!

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40 MANILA UP!

my husband, parents, family, and staff.

I think when we fool ourselves into thinking we can do everything on our own and by ourselves, that is when we feel overwhelmed, bitter, exhausted and unhappy. This means that we have to make time to be with the people we love and give them the appreciation, love and gratitude they deserve no matter how busy we are. Preserving

MU: We all know that you are personal relationships is the key to super busy, as a successful dermatologist, achieving life balance and happiness.

MU: Where do you draw your how does your day start? strength from?

TM: When I open my eyes in

M: I constantly pray, and I the morning, if my husband is next to me, I hug him, and we stay in bed longer focus on being grateful. Sometimes to chat and wake up together. I love this it is not easy, and there are also many frustrating, exhausting moments and situations, but I try not to dwell on the negative because that is just draining.

I avoid unhappy and negative people

Q&A Tess Mauricio MD, FAAD with

time of the day. Then I pick up my cell phone and check email, messages, and Facebook! My husband usually brings me tea while I’m still in bed working on my phone, then we cook breakfast with our kids before they go to school, and I get ready for my usually hectic day.

MU: With your hectic schedule, activities, TV shows, etc., how do you juggle everything and still maintain balance within your family as a loving wife, and a nurturing and caring mother?

TM: I believe that balance in life is key, and it can be challenging to achieve if you don’t make it a priority. First, I take care of myself no matter how busy I get; I make sure I am healthy physically, mentally and emotionally. I try to eat healthy, get regular massages, and I exercise.

I need to make sure I have lots of energy and strength to do everything I want to do. And I get an extra boost when I like what I see when I look in the mirror so of course, I make sure I make time for my skin and body treatments to keep me looking and feeling my best.

`I also get a lot of help from

and situations as much as possible. I prioritize having a good relationship with my husband, children, and other family members. I think there is nothing more emotionally and physically exhausting than dealing with family and relationship issues.

But when you have your family behind you, life is happy, and the challenges you face every day are more manageable. My family’s unconditional love and support powers me and makes me braver to take on new challenges!

MU: What inspires you most?

TM: I am inspired when I know I helped make a difference in the lives of others. I love making people happy! I love making peoples’ wishes come true! I teach my kids to “Be a blessing to someone every day” and I live by this mantra! Knowing someone will be made happier and live life better by what I am doing only pushes me to work harder!

MU: What tips can you spare to busy career women like yourself?

TM: Do not feel guilty about taking care of yourself. When you are

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at your best, you are happier, and you will perform better at all your roles in life, as a wife, mother, daughter, sister, friend, boss, etc. and you will enjoy life more! When we take care of ourselves physically, emotionally, spiritually we give our children and those around us a great role model for how they should value themselves. I think this is very important. As a mother, I want to show my children by the way I live that they should be kind to themselves, that they should love themselves and that they deserve to be loved, go for their dreams and ultimately be happy.

When new challenges arise, instead of asking “Why” ask “Why not?”

Life is an adventure. Don’t be afraid to try and you may just surprise yourself!

Life is short. Always think about living life to the fullest and always do and be your very best every day and you won’t have regrets!

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Land of the Free Because of the Brave (Memorial Day in DC) by Antonette B. Ang

Memorial Day, is a solemn holiday in the US. Born out of the desire to honor and remember the more than 600,00 fallen soldiers who fought during the civil war, thus began the tributes held in various towns and cities, decorating the graves of the fallen soldiers with flowers. Hence, it was first called Decoration Day. It was stated that the first observance happened in Warrenton, VA in 1861. President Johnson signed a proclamation naming Waterloo, NY as the birthplace of Memorial Day, in May 1966.

After World War I, it evolved to commemorate each American soldier who died and perished in all wars. The date was later changed from May 30 to the last Monday in May, and became a federal holiday in 1971. Each year, a National Moment of Silence takes place at 3 pm local time. This resolution came to pass on Dec 2000 which asks every American to pause from whatever they are doing and show respect to the men and women who unselfishly gave their lives in exchange for our freedom.

Washington, DC puts on the National Memorial Day Parade, the largest Memorial Day Parade of its kind, involving bands, active duty and military personnel, youth groups, floats and hundreds of veterans. Headstones in Arlington National Cemetery are decorated with more than a quarter million flags. In there, you will also see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded by the Tomb Guard Sentinels 24/7. A ceremony which includes the famous wreath-laying on the tombs, and the scattering of rose petals is also observed.

The Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally, which draws more than 900,000 bikers from across the nation, comes to DC to honor the POWs and the MIAs. It includes a candlelight vigil, and a Rolling Thunder’s Saluting our Troops concert near the Vietnam War Memorial. A patriotic concert is also shown on the lawn of the US Capitol. It pays tribute to those who have served our country and honors current service members as well.

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If you traverse the National Mall, you will see a display of monuments and memorials dedicated to our heroes. First and foremost is the Washington Monument, built to honor the most famous war general in US history.

The National World War II Memorial, etched with 58,621 soldiers’ names. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, which consists of two identical walls contain more than 58,000 names. It honors members of the US Armed Forces who fought in the Vietnam War. The Lincoln Memorial is where you can read the famous Gettysburg Address, one of the most powerful speeches regarding sacrifice. Korean War Veterans Memorial comes next where 19 life-like, poncho-clad soldiers can be seen. The DC War Memorial honors the 26,000 Washington, DC residents who served during WWI, comes next. Marine Corps War Memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Memorial is a tribute to the Marines who have died We are all affected. Without the freedom defending the US since 1775, that we have right now, those things will before our nation was born. not be possible for us to enjoy. Freedom did

However way we not come without a price. Young men and celebrate this three-day women were fallen through the years, in our holiday, whether with a family country, foreign lands, air, and sea. Bodies not picnic, going to the beach or retrieved, forever lost. Mother’s, father’s, wife’s, sometimes going to the races, husband’s, sister’s, brother’s, daughter’s, son’s it should not lose its meaning. tears shed. No more tomorrows for the fallen.

Not a single day passes by when a mother longs for her child.

As Abe Lincoln’s letter to a mother says, “I pray that our Heavenly Father may assuage the anguish of your bereavement, and leave you only the cherished memory of the loved and lost, and the solemn pride that must be yours to have laid so costly a sacrifice upon the altar of freedom,” so should we say a prayer for the valiant and the brave.

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THE CORDILLERA CONNECTION UK Chapter, “BUILDING DREAMS PART 2.” By ELA HIDALGO

UK Jahna Lucero, Carol Mitas (London’s Female Country Singer), Jhermy Ezperazante (A great father and a singer) and the Princes Trust

Young Ambassador,

The Cordillera Connection Arianna Morgan, who shared their is a charity registered in the United God – given talents to help those Kingdom. Its UNITED KINGDOM scholars make their dreams come CHARITY NUMBER is 1152344 true. To everyone who made this with a mission to contribute to event a success, to everyone who Cordillerans but also from other the world’s effort in working out spent their time to prepare all the parts of the Philippines. The night relief of poverty, preservation and foods and to set the venue, and to was a success, and it was full of protection of good health, the entertainment from the main acts, D’ my co-host, the TCC Chairman, advancement of education, and Intruders, Ela Hidalgo (Vocalist), Rey Marben Orfiano... THANK YOU the advancement of arts, culture SO MUCH! Abesamis (Drummer/ Sax Player), and heritage and a vision of being

TCC needs support on Jayr Da Silva (Bass Player), Noel a strong, innovative contributor Arangorin (Lead Guitarist), Le Tahn our projects for our beneficiaries towards making the world better and scholarship program. You can Hai (Keyboardist) with the TCC (TCC).

Divas, Grace Quinto, Alexa Taad and donate thru the following:

The members and Manel Roxas. supporters of the Cordillera For the Philippines

This initiative is also my Connection United Kingdom Bank: Banco De Oro (BDO) way of celebrating my birthday, just Chapter are not only from Account Number: 005180227055 Account Name: THE CORDILLERA BINNADANGAN like the first event in 2014, which I Cordillera but also from other CONNECTION INC. suggested.

This is my way of giving ethnicities and nationalities with SWIFT CODE – BNORPHMM thanks to our Almighty Father for For United Kingdom Donors: common goals of achieving its Bank: HSBC the life he has given me; building missions and initiatives.

Account Name: THE CORDILLERA CONNECTION

One mission the Cordillera the dreams and the lives of the less Account Number:71608193 Sort Code:40-02-01 fortunate through the use of the Connection has is building the Note: For Donors Outside United Kingdom: dreams of the scholars in Cordillera musical gift He has bestowed on me. International Bank Account Number In behalf of the members (IBAN):GB12MIDL40020171608193 as well as in Ilocandia Region. Last Let’s support the Cordillera Connection in all their and trustees of The Cordillera April 2, 2016, TCC in partnership projects and in building the dreams of the scholars Connections, big thanks to all who with one of the best bands in the because they are the future of the Philippines.

Email: (stardom.arts@aol.co.uk) supported “BUILDING DREAMS UK, D’ Intruders, raised funds Part 2” and most to make these scholars’ dreams possible through a charity concert, importantly, the guest performers “BUILDING DREAMS” Part 2. namely, Mindy The Marian Community Centre, Tizon and Kilburn Park in London was jamguitarist, Seenzone packed. The first Building Dreams Band (the newest was held way back in 2014 which band in London), was also a success and through Kate Malabanan (a this, the scholarships were opened promising singer/ to six scholars of Don Mariano dancer), Warren Marcos Memorial State University Aligaen, TCC in San Fernando La Union. TCC Dancers, Teenstar opened its door not only for the

Who better to describe how good a mother has been to her children than her children themselves. Carmen has been blessed with two -- Krista and Kendrick.

This is what each of them had to say about this remarkable mother, Carmen Kleiner earlier this year:

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CARMEN ARRIETA KLEINER

“Thank you for showering us with all of your love, patience, and devotion. I appreciate more and more just how precious & valuable the gift of motherly love has been - especially receiving it from you. I hope you feel how much we love and appreciate you today and always, no matter how busy things may get. You are always in my heart and on my mind. I love you! Krista.”

“Thank you so much for being such a loving mother.

Nothing is as certain as the care and love you have for our family.

We are a family that adores you, so much so that it becomes obvious to the people around us. That no matter where we are – together or apart – we will always love each other. I love you, Kendrick.”

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A Memoir Of A Mother By: ELA HIDALGO

According to an American Writer, Washington Irving, “A mother is the truest friend we have, when trials heavy and sudden fall upon us; when adversity takes the place of prosperity; when friends desert us; when trouble thickens around us, still will she cling to us, and endeavour by her kind precepts and counsels to dissipate the clouds of darkness, and cause peace to return to our hearts.”

In the United Kingdom, Mother’s day is celebrated in the month of March; other countries like America and the Philippines, celebrate this special occasion in May. Being born in the Philippines and currently living in London, I celebrate mother’s day twice in a year. Well, I am not yet a mother myself, but I became the mother of my younger siblings when my mother died in 2003. It was just my 9th month here in the UK. I worked hard, day and night just to provide a better and comfortable life for my family back home. I wasn’t able to buy things for myself or travel elsewhere before because I’d rather send the money back home than to spend it here. I promised my mother; I will do my best, to provide everything for my younger siblings, until they finish their studies, especially our younger brother, who was only 15 when our mother passed away at the age of 51. I decided not to have my family then so that I can help my family back home.

Through my experience, I have learned that being a mother is not just an ordinary job in the world. Our mothers patiently carried us in their womb for nine months. Being a mother takes a lot of sacrifices, patience, commitment and it consists of unconditional love. I have seen the unconditional love as I was growing up from my mother. Aside from working in a government office, she used to sell Ready To Wear (RTW) clothes, jewelry, cook wares, appliances

and even “longganisa” (Filipino sausage) to augment her income and to provide her four children all their needs.

I can still clearly remember those times when I went around with her in her customers’ houses to sell on her days off from work. I can also say that I grew up in their office. I remember my mother saying, she used to lay me down in joint chairs while she does her work in their office. Their office became my playground too and played with the other employees’ children. One time I saw one of the former directors of their office, and she said, “I was cradling you in my arms before so your mother can do her job.” Despite the hardships she experienced, she still managed to help other people, especially the less fortunate ones. She was always giving although she has nothing for herself.

My mother, Delia Tadifa Hidalgo was born and raised from a poor family of 10 children. At the age of 18, she eloped with my 16-yearold father who was from a rich and well-known family in La Union during their times. However, my father’s parents died when he was so young; no one guided him until he became an alcoholic. My mother put up with him and never left him. My mother continued her studies until she finished it. She did everything to help my father stop drinking, and I admitted that I had bad memories of my father being an alcoholic. I am not saying that my father is bad at all. It was only when he was under the influence of alcohol that he becomes a different person. There were also people who belittled my mother and one day I saw how she cried.

I promised myself, one day, we will have a better life; no one will hurt my mother or my family again. Despite it all, my brothers and I were brought up with good moral values through the love and guidance of our mother. She taught me not to have any hatreds towards those people who looked down on us. Well,

my brothers and I graduated in the Philippines with bachelor degrees that we can be proud of.

My mother is not only a mother to me; she is my best friend, mentor, chaperone when we had events in and outside the school. She was the one who motivated us to develop our talents in music, and she had enrolled us in different classes—voice, guitar, keyboards, piano, solfeggio. According to her, the best investment parents can have, is to develop their children’s talents and skills because you never know, one day, those talents will lead them to success. My mother taught me a lot and inculcated in me to remain humble with whatever success I have and be kind to everyone. She was and is still my inspiration and my rock. She was the reason why I decided to work abroad to help her augment our life in the Philippines. I was so devastated when she passed away so suddenly. I always wish that she is still here, so I can tour her around and see the beauties around the world.

Hence, she might not be physically present here on earth plane; I know that she is still looking down on me and guiding me as a mother. For me, she is an extra ordinary mother. I am so proud and grateful that she was and always will be my mother.

Mothers show their love to their children differently. Most of the Filipino mothers went abroad, had sacrificed not to see their children growing up just to give them a better future. I have met a mother here in London, who haven’t been home for more than ten years. She’s been staying in the UK illegally.

However, she is enduring the consequences of staying illegally because according to her, there are no opportunities in the Philippines and their life there is very hard. The mother said, it’s time for her to go home, as all her children have finished their education.

I truly admire all mothers who are doing everything just to give the world to their family, especially their children.

Happy Mother’s day to all mothers out there... kudos to all of you.

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