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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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So what it feels like to celebrate women’s month? As far as my humble opinion is concerned, every day is a woman’s day. I have been fortunate to be surrounded by power women all my life and I celebrate the contributions and influences that they have made in how I see the world from the eyes of a woman. One hundred ninety fours years before the historic speech of our very own President Corazon C.Aquino at the US Congress in 1986 of which she stunned the Americans with her eloquence and sincerity; a book entitled A Vindication of the Rights of Woman was written and made available to the public in 1792 by a British feminist and philosopher Mary Wollstonecraft. In her famous statement and I quote, “Let woman share the rights, and she will emulate the virtues of man”, she advocated not just women’s rights but equal rights. Wollstonecraft highlighted the importance of women in society and how they can make a difference if given the chance. Thus, the women awakenings came into fruition. Women like Simone de Beauvoir, a french writer, was inspired and thus followed the path less traveled by sharing her very own masterpiece which was published in 1949 entitled, The Second Sex. In her controversial statement, “One is not born a woman, one becomes one”, she summarized women’s position in society through the years and discussed the impact of tradition and influence of society that makes women inferior to men. Which should not be the case. Since time immemorial men and women co-exist for the purpose of recreation. Men were the hunters and women were the breeders. From generation to generation, women have been able to create something special for themselves regardless of nationality, age or status in life. It is worthy to note that as early as 1763, Gabriela Silang known as Generala was already advancing women’s relevance to society. She was considered the first Filipino woman who led and participated in a revolution against the Spanish occupation in the Philippines. It was love of country which made her sacrifice her life. Then in 1979, there was the Iron Lady. UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher who not only carried her bag at all times as symbolism of being a woman but showed the world what shes made of when she declared, and I quote, “You turn if you want to but this lady is not for turning” while defending the claim of her government on the occasion of the Falklands war and the Argentinians seized control of Falklands territory that allegedly belonged to the United Kingdom. After 74 days, the Argentinian surrendered and so she launched the era of Thatcherism. In later years, she intimated her relationship with Queen Elizabeth II of England, another power woman of this century, as friendly and cordial, contrary to earlier reports by the press when she declared ”I always found the Queen’s attitude towards the work of the Government absolutely correct ... stories of clashes between two powerful women’ were just too good not to make up.” So there it is, women rivalry is passe whenever the general welfare is the issue at hand. Who can forget Hillary Rodham Clinton at the United Nations Fourth World Conference on Women in Beijing China in 1995? She popularized the slogan “Human rights are women’s rights and women’s rights are human rights once and for all”. It carried a resounding caveat not just to women who were present but to the whole world that women issues are world issues, as well. It made Hillary Rodham Clinton a beacon of hope for every girl and woman out there. When she abdicated the right to fight the republican candidate during the 2008 US presidential elections, in the context of having come further than any woman before, she declared to a resounding applause, “Although we weren’t able to shatter this highest, hardest ‘glass ceiling’ this time, thanks to you, it’s got about 18 million cracks in it, and the light is shining through like never before.” She made not only every woman in America but all of us, all women from every continent around the world, prouder than ever before. The latest power woman who made us observe her in awe is no other than Aung San Suu Kyi. A recipient of so many prestigious international awards such as the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991 and the likes, she made an impression on every woman, not by all the honorary titles bestowed upon her but by her willingness to sacrifice for her own people. Suu Kyi believes “In societies where men are truly confident of their own worth, women are not merely tolerated but valued”. All her life, she fought for what she believes is right. She had been under house arrest in Burma for more than 20 years until her release in 2010. Her struggles have been documented, and as a woman, I am so happy to see her win a set in the parliament earlier this month. What a way to see the fruits of her labor during her lifetime. Well done. And our very own Tita Cory. The world and the Filipino women will always remember, with good thoughts, Asia’s first female president and the Philippine’s first woman president, Corazon C.Aquino. She successfully led a bloodless revolution in 1986. Initially, it shocked the world but gained everyone’s admiration of what a woman can do when faced with real threats of danger against her people. She was not only an icon of democracy but more importantly a symbol of what Filipino women should and can be. Grace under pressure. When Corazon Aquino declared “I am not embarrassed to tell you that I believe in miracles”, her detractors labelled her as weak. However, when she reminded the american legislators during her historic US congress speech to help rebuild the Philippines after she was elected and I quote, “You have spent many lives and much treasure to bring freedom to many lands that were reluctant to receive it. And here you have a people who won it by themselves and need only the help to preserve it” she cemented her status as a serious, legitimate world leader and later that day the US Legislators voted to give the Philippines a 200 million assistance package. Corazon Aquino was an inspiration to every Filipino woman. She made us believe in miracles and to have faith. To have that spirit that bears things and to have that hope that every woman can make a difference, regardless. After careful consideration and with due respect to the opposite sex, I will now conclude and will have to agree with what PM Margaret Thatcher once declared “It may be the cock that crows, but it is the hen that lays the eggs”.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
Contents
Publisher MARYJANE SALOMON (SINGAPORE)
Editorial Consultants DETCH P. NONAN-MERCADO (SINGAPORE) SANKIE SIMBULAN (PHILIPPINES) TALA MARALIT (PHILIPPINES)
COVER STORY PG 24
Columnists CRISTY VICENTINA (SINGAPORE) ATTY. HAZEL RIGUERA (PHILIPPINES) PAMSY L. TIOSECO (PHILIPPINES) DR. MARIGLO LIWANAG VICENTE (PHILIPPINES) MARY JANE AQUINO-GOURLAY (SINGAPORE)
Contributors
COVER STORY PHOTO BY: OHMZ PINEDA
Layout Artist
10 THE FIGHT AGAINST DOMESTIC VIOLENCE
JONATHAN LONGCANAYA
Circulation, Communications and Marketing Consultants:
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PINOYGRAPHERS (SINGAPORE) • CGD (SINGAPORE) ERIC PARRENO (SINGAPORE) • MBS (SINGAPORE) ARNOLD APOSTOL (SINGAPORE) • WHENG DICHOSO (SIGNAPORE) ARMAN CAPARAS (SINGAPORE)
28 OH! WOMEN
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40 ROUND THINGS ALL AND PSRC 45 CIRQUE DU MARCHE: FOOD, FUN AND FESTIVITIES 48 BMM FUN RUN 2012
JADE LACTAO (PHILIPPINES) GERARD MONTALBO (SINGAPORE) MARILYN TJALSMA (SINGAPORE) ANDEE BARCO (PHILIPPINES)
Photographers
19 MINISTER AND CONSUL GENERAL NEAL IMPERIAL: A PROUD PROTECTOR OF WOMEN AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING VICTIMS 29 MEMBER OF THE MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE (THE FIRST AND THE ONLY FILIPINO MAGAZINE)
Cartoonist MANNY FRANCISCO (SINGAPORE)
FEATURES ... 12 COMMISSION ON FILIPINO OVERSEAS: RESPONDING TO THE CHALLENGES OF MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT
CHRISTIE TAN (USA) CASHMER DIRAMPATEN (SINGAPORE) ANNE LUISA VILLARICO (SINGAPORE) DR. MARILYN SURIO (PHILIPPINES) MONICA GUERRA (SINGAPORE) JUSTICE FRANCISCO-SCHAFFER (SINGAPORE) KRISTA MONICA GARCIA (PHILIPPINES) ATTY. SANIATA LIWLIWA V. GONZALES-ALZATE (PHILIPPINES) FERDINAND SAHAGUN (SINGAPORE) MICH CRUZ VILLAR (PHILIPPINES) DR. CLARITA CARLOS (PHILIPPINES)
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Advertising Enquiries: Email: info@iambagongbayani.com Mobile: +65 9811 1755 | Office: +65 6235 8153 Published monthly by Salomon Publishing Singapore Pte Ltd. 304 Orchard Road, #04-65 Lucky Plaza, Singapore 238863 www.iambagongbayani.com The Publisher uses due care and diligence in the preparation of this magazine but is not liable for any mistake, misprint, omission or typographical error. The Publisher prints the advertisement provided by the advertisers but gives no warranty and makes no representations as to the truth, accuracy or sufficiency of any description, photograph or statement. The Publisher accepts no liability for any loss that may be suffered by any person who relies either in whole or in part upon any description, photograph or statement contained therein. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. No part of this publication may be copied either in whole or in part without prior permission from the Publisher. MICA (P) 220/02/2012 Printing By: SUN RISE PRINTING & SUPPLIES PTE LTD
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Congress Report
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
LEGARDA:
INVEST IN WOMEN LEADERSHIP In celebration of International Women’s Month, Senator Loren Legarda encouraged the government to invest more in strengthening women’s role as leaders in the society.
In Micronesia, women farmers have developed their own useful knowledge of the island’s hydrology, enabling them to find water and dig out water wells during droughts.
Legarda said that women have proven their leadership capabilities especially in times of crisis.
A gender-sensitive community education in Honduras, one that focused on warning systems and hazard management overseen by women, led to the prompt but orderly evacuation of the communities hard hit by Hurricane Mitch in 2004, which saved hundreds of lives.
“Women are powerful agents of change. We know this and we have a track record to prove this,” she stressed. The Senator said that in the area of climate change adaptation and mitigation, women from different parts of the world have been developing various programs for such agenda.
“In the Philippines, women’s organizations have been developing farming and fishing strategies that can adapt to extreme weather events. Likewise, women make up a sizable portion of workers, supporters and volunteers of Luntiang Pilipinas.
ENRILE BEGINS TRIAL WITH A PRAYER: Senate President Juan Ponce Enrile leads the prayer at the start of the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato C. Corona. Enrile prayed for guidance for our country’s leaders to be responsible and accountable to the people.
It is one of the most active organizations in the country’s tree planting and reforestation work,” Legarda pointed out. “We need to lift the social, cultural and institutional barriers that constrain women from effectively adapting to climate change effects in order to seek welfare and well being for themselves and their families, and that they may effectively use their leadership skills to contribute in national development,” Legarda concluded.
JOB PLAN OF GOVT UP FOR SENATE REVIEW
SENATORS STUDY DOCUMENTS: Senators Joker Arroyo (left) and Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. peruse the documents submitted by witness Araceli Bayuga, an employee of the Supreme Court’s Cash Collection and Distribution Division, during the impeachment trial of Chief Justice Renato Corona.
Sen. Ralph G. Recto said there seems to be a growing disconnect between the government’s jobs generation plan vis-à-vis the actual number of people out of jobs and those who have found jobs but are hardly surviving from their meager income. “The country has a growing labor force that has no jobs available for them. There must be general plan to connect the growth in labor to the availability of jobs,” Recto said.
Recto noted that the country’s labor force grew by 4.8% or 1.902 million more from 39.287 million in October 2010 to 41.189 million in the same month in 2011.
January 2011 and with an estimated avalanche of 700,000 fresh graduates this March that have no clear job prospects.
But he said as the country’s army of able bodied workers grew, the rate of unemployment likewise remained the highest in the region despite its decline from 7.1 percent in October 2010 to 6.4 percent in October 2011.
“We need to know where the government’s job plan is going and let Congress put in the legislative man-hours to craft or amend relevant laws,” he said, adding that government has yet to announce its own jobs target for the next three years.
In actual terms, the number of underemployed persons increased by 239,000 from 7.141 million in October 2010 to 7.380 million in October 2011.
Recto has a pending bill which grants business owners tax discounts and other regulatory perks in exchange for hiring additional workers.
The senator also said 50 percent of the unemployed are young people, aged 15-24 years old.
Recto, through a Senate Resolution, has called on the Senate through its committees on economic affairs and on labor, employment and human resource development to look into the job generation program of the government and see if it was producing results.
Recto said the number of unemployed is expected to balloon some more from the already 564,000 college graduates still looking for work as of
LEGARDA ECHOES CALL FOR EMPOWERMENT OF RURAL WOMEN
TO ABATE HUNGER AND POVERTY As the world celebrates International Women’s Day on March 8, Senator Loren Legarda today expressed support over the call for empowerment of rural women to end hunger and poverty. Legarda said that rural women are key players in securing food sufficiency and in countryside development, however, their vulnerability to climate change hinders them to fully contribute to these endeavors. “It is reported that in developing countries, 43% of agricultural workers are women, and if they are given access to productive resources, this will result to a 20 to 30% increase in their farm yield; a national agricultural output that is 2.5 to 4% higher; and, a 17% decline in the number of people who experience hunger worldwide,” she pointed out.
“Rural women are the main, and the more prodigious, producers of staple crops, at the same time, they bear the brunt of climate change’s savagery. Any extreme weather event that affects agricultural production - whether it is a drought or rampaging floods - gravely affects the women tillers of the land,” the Senator stressed. Legarda noted that some women’s organizations have been silently but effectively working on programs on sustainable and climate-resilient farming and fishing.
NATIONAL MUSEUM TEXTILE GALLERIES: Senator Loren Legarda is joined by Marilyn Guimbatan, Tribal Affairs Assistant of the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples (NCIP), and Ruben Gumangan, farmer/weaver/Hudhud singer from Asipulo, Ifugao, during the preview of the National Museum Textile Galleries, which was conceptualized by the Senator. Carmen Accatan, who is also a native of Asipulo, Ifugao, demonstrates how to weave an Ifugao garment.
The Amihan, an organization of Filipino peasant women in Montalban, Rizal, has been practicing a farming procedure that can adapt to the prolonged rainy season--they plant fruit trees and vegetables on the borders that separate the rice paddies. Meanwhile, a group of women fisherfolk, the Ladies in Unity with Men Onward to Development, employed a strategy to ensure continued availability of fish stock in a 19-hectare fish sanctuary in Mahaba
Island, Hinatuan, Surigao del Sur. Every night, two families were assigned to guard the fish sanctuary. They also reforested a total of 136 hectares of mangrove areas to protect their settlements from storm surges and secure an additional source of food for their families. “Women are powerful agents of change in the overall climate change adaptation efforts. We know this and we have a track record to prove
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this. We must invest in rural women, provide them equal access to resources, craft programs that are responsive to their needs and make them part in decision-making as they are significant contributors to sustainable development, and their role in countryside development is a critical aspect in building community resilience to disasters,” Legarda concluded.
Congress Report
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
VILLAR FINDS 7% UNEMPLOYMENT
RATE UNBELIEVABLE Sen. Manny Villar today said the 7 percent unemployment rate as reported by government is ‘unbelievable and unrealistic’. Villar made this remark during the public hearing of the Committee on Economic Affairs, which he chairs. National Economic Development Authority Dir. Gen. Cayetano Paderanga was among the resource persons invited to brief the committee on the state of the economy. In his presentation “2011 Philippine Economic Performance and Growth Outlook for 2012”, Paderanga reported that there was moderate economic growth in 2011 and that unemployment rate went down from 7.3 percent in 2010 to 7 percent last year. “As a senator who has gone all over the country, I find the figures way, way off reality. We went around the country when we campaigned, ang daming walang trabaho,” Villar said.
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Paderanga explained that by definition, unemployment includes individuals who don’t have a job but are actively seeking for one. Villar said they should also include in the equation those who don’t have jobs and no longer seeking because they have given up hope to find one. “Iyong unemployment rate, talagang hindi ako makapaniwala na mas maganda pa ang ating employment kaysa America at Europa. Hindi naman kapani-paniwala iyon. Kaya sabi ko, itama sana natin dahil nagiging misleading ang statistics natin,” Villar said. “It is very important to measure the people who are unemployed, underemployed, including those who are not looking for jobs. I really find it meaningless looking at these figures, which are practically even better than developed countries,” he added. During the hearing, Bayan Muna Party-List Rep. Teddy
SENATOR-JUDGE-TRIATHLETE: Taking time off from the impeachment trial over the weekend, Philippine Senator Pia Cayetano crosses the finish line at the XTERRA Off-road Triathlon Championship held in Liloan, Cebu. An avid triathlete, the lady senator finished with a time of 4:35:39 to place second in her age group in the women’s category.
Casino referred to a survey conducted by the Social Weather Stations showing that unemployment is 24 percent and underemployment is 34 percent. According to the survey conducted Dec. 3 to 7, 2011, unemployment increased from 20.2 percent in recent surveys and indicated that around 9.7 million Filipinos are unemployed. “I think that is a more accurate representation, at least from the empirical side, when we go down to the communities,” Casino said. Villar said unrealistic figures cannot help government to effectively address the poverty problem.
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Psyche Me Up
Article by Dr. Mariglo L. Vicente RGC, CCI, DAAETS
REDEFINING THE
W-factor ust being a woman is God’s gift. The origin of a child is a mother, a woman. She shows a man what sharing, caring, and loving is all about. That is the essence of a woman.” In 1994, Indian Ms. Universe winner Sushmita Sen regaled her Filipino audience when she said that the essence of a woman is “…being a woman (and)…a mother.”
Womanhood, indeed, is a gift that reaches its pinnacle not so much by having children alone but by embracing the motherhood role in its many faces. Throughout history, we encounter women who have risen above their stature to become icons in their own right by uplifting the lives of men who have sought their trade of leadership. This includes the Queen of the Nile, Cleopatra, who possesses beauty and enigma. Similarly, Elizabeth I, the virgin queen of England, was an image of stubborn perseverance and passionate dedication to the emergency of the British hegemony. In 1996, the late former President Corazon Aquino ruled the Philippines in a most democratic way the world has ever seen.
As how most neo-Freudian puts it, speciÀcally by known in Feminine Psychology Karen Horney, men will always have that drive for success but the fact that women are able to nurture and bear children connects them more closely to nature and all of creation, including great men. It is, therefore, only Àtting to say that the celebration of life is a tribute to womanhood. Women do not serve as object of charm and affection alone, but gives rise to the beauty of life itself. A woman is a source of inspiration, the one that brings out the best in a man. So, what else can I say? After all, I too, am a woman.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
Usapang Legal
Article by Atty. Hazel E. Rebadulla Riguera, Managing Partner, Riguera and Riguera Law OfĂ&#x20AC;ce
epublic Act No. 9262, known as the Anti-Violence Against Women and their Children Act was approved by President Gloria Macapagal Arroyo on 8 March 2004. The law seeks to tackle the specter of domestic violence. Prior to the passage of RA 9262, also popularly known as the VOWCHI Act, domestic violence was in effect not treated as a crime. Many law enforcement ofĂ&#x20AC;cers considered domestic violence as one involving internal family matters that should not be interfered with. With the passage of the VOWCHI Act, the criminalization of domestic violence would hopefully serve as an effective deterrent.
As deÀned in the VOWCHI Act, the phrase “violence against women and their children” refers to any act or acts committed by any person against a woman who is his wife, former wife, or against a woman with whom the person has or had a sexual or dating relationship, or with whom he has a child, or against her child, which result in or is likely to result in physical, sexual, psychological harm or suffering, or economic abuse. An interesting and novel concept introduced in the VOWCHI Act is “economic abuse.” This refers to acts that make or attempt to make a woman financially dependent. Examples of economic abuse are withdrawal of financial support or prevention of the victim from engaging in a profession, occupation, business or activity; deprivation or threat of deprivation of financial resources and the right to the use of conjugal, community, or common property; destroying household property; and controlling the victim’s own money or property or solely controlling the conjugal money or property. Another innovative provision of the VOWCHI Act is the recognition of the condition known as “battered woman syndrome” and its
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acceptance as a valid defense that may be invoked in court by the battered woman. “Battered woman syndrome” refers to a scientifically defined pattern of psychological and behavioral symptoms found in women living in battering relationships as a result of cumulative abuse. June Briand, an American, was subjected to seven years of horrendous physical, sexual, and emotional violence and abuse by her husband. In 1987, she could no longer bear the hellish nightmare and pumped four bullets into her husband’s head. Convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison, she spent over a decade behind bars before she was finally pardoned and released. Recognizing the injustice done to Ms. Briand, many American states passed laws recognizing battered woman syndrome as a defense in criminal cases. Our own VOWCHI Act provides that victim-survivors who are found by the courts to be suffering from battered woman syndrome do not incur any criminal liability notwithstanding the absence of any of the elements of self-defense.
The VOWCHI Act is a new law and the jury is still out on the question of whether it is an effective deterrent. Nonetheless for the many victims of domestic violence, there is now a light at the end of the tunnel.
Usapang Legal
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
BAGOONG BA BAG BAGONG BAYAN BAYANI Y I MARCH YAN MAR MARCH ARCH CHH2012 201 2012 0122
Special Report
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COMMISSION ON FILIPINO OVERSEAS (CFO): RESPONDING TO THE CHALLENGES OF MIGRATION AND DEVELOPMENT
MOU SIGNING BETWEEN CFO AND SOUTH KOREA THROUGH THE MINISTRY OF GENDER EQUALITY AND FAMILY (MOGEF) eoul, South Korea - The Philippines, through the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) and South Korea through the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family (MOGEF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today regarding Cooperation in Developing Capacities for the Resettlement and Adaptation of Filipino Marriage Immigrants and Promoting the Empowerment of Immigrant Women.
The MOU was signed by CFO Chairperson, Secretary Imelda M. Nicolas and Minister Kim, Kum-lae of the MOGEF
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(CFO Chairperson, Secretary Imelda M. Nicolas and Minister Kim, Kum-lae of the MOGEF, Director In Sook Kang (MOGEF), Consul General Sylvia Marasigan of the Philippine Embassy in Korea and Cherry Joy Veniles of the CFO.
The MOU was signed by CFO Chairperson, Secretary Imelda M. Nicolas and Minister Kim, Kum-lae of the MOGEF at signing ceremonies at the offices of the Ministry in Seoul Korea where over 9,000 Filipinos are married to Korean nationals. Among those present at the signing were Director In Sook Kang (MOGEF), Consul General Sylvia Marasigan of the Philippine Embassy in Korea and Cherry Joy Veniles of the CFO. “Both the Philippines and Korea see the integration of Filipino marriage migrants into Korean society as a way to ensure the protection of their human rights and to support their empowerment. For in reality, the less they adapt into Korean life, the less empowered they become as migrants, workers, wives and mothers and this needs to be addressed comprehensively and creatively. This agreement demonstrates the strong partnership between our nations and emphasizes our joint commitment to address this growing challenge,” said Secretary Nicolas.
“By seeking to develop new ways of providing information among marriage migrants through on-site multi-cultural orientation and language programs we hope to be able to build the conÀdence of women in intermarriages and more effectively address issues related to domestic violence and human trafÀcking.”
Since 1989, about 10000 Filipinos have attended the CFO’s Guidance and Counseling Program for Filipinos marrying Korean Nationals. They represent the growing number of intercultural marriages in Korea that have, in recent times, grown to about 120,000 based on a Chosun Ilbo (Korean Times) survey in 2010. The MOU between the two countries is expected to solidify joint research and exchange of learning modules; facilitate access to information sources for newly arrived migrants; develop programs and projects for the welfare and protection of Filipino and Korean immigrants; and facilitate technical and policy dialogues among experts and practitioners to better address various issues in intermarriages. For further details, please contact: MS. IVY D. MIRAVALLES Migrant Integration and Education Division (MIED) Commission on Filipinos Overseas Tel. (632) 552-4740 E-mail. imiravalles@cfo.gov.ph MS. CHERRY JOY G. VENILES Migrant Integration and Education Division (MIED) Commission on Filipinos Overseas Tel. (632) 552-4744 E-mail. cveniles@cfo.gov.ph
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
WHAT IS
SINGLES F R CHRIS ?
Singles for Christ (SFC) is one of the family ministries of Couples for Christ (CFC). It was founded to cater to the needs of single men and women from 21 to 40 years of age. “Single” refers to anyone within that age group who is free from any legal impediments to marry. The pastoral care offered by the ministry, though, is not limited to those who are called for marriage, but includes as well those who may be considering either single blessedness or religious vocation as a state of life.
VISION: “Every single men and women all over the world experiencing Christ.” MISSION: “Building the Church of the Home and building the Church of the Poor.” n and Women Experiencing the Me gle Sin of ion rat ne ge a is ” FC ”S World for Christ.” Fullness of Life and Restoring the
Thank You ၸႀ ¡ ၺၸၹၺ
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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PALAWAN
OPENS EMBASSY’S TOURISM PUSH IN SINGAPORE FOR 2012
n order to help spread this message to the rest of the world, the Philippine Embassy in Singapore is organizing a series of Ambassador’s Tours to select destinations in the Philippines this year. The inaugural tour took off for Puerto Princesa on 8 to 11 March 2012, led by Ambassador Minda Calaguian-Cruz and her husband, Philippine Ambassador to Korea Luis T. Cruz. The group included 23 people, including the ambassadors to Singapore of Cambodia, Canada, Mexico, Peru and Brazil, as well as the former ambassadors to Singapore of Mexico and Sri Lanka, and several Singapore-based businesspeople.
Travel
AMBASSADOR’S TOUR TO:
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
Travel
The excursion also served as an opportunity to showcase the warmth and hospitality of the Palaweños, with the offices of Mayor Hagedorn and Governor Mitra mounting impressive welcome receptions for the group that showcased the cultural richness of Palawan.
(L-R) – Ambassadors Luis and Minda Cruz; Cambodian Ambassador Sin Serey; Madam Jayathri Samarakone, former Sri Lankan Ambassador; and High Commissioner and Madam David Sevigny of Canada at PPUR.
The Canadian High Commissioner, the Mexican Ambassador and his family, the wife of the Brazilian Ambassador, and the former Mexican Ambassador and his spouse try banana boat diplomacy at Isla Pandan.
In collaboration with the Office of Mayor Edward S. Hagedorn, the Office of Palawan Governor Abraham Kahlil B. Mitra, the Tourism Office of Puerto Princesa, the Department of Tourism (DOT), DOT-MIMAROPA, and partner travel service providers, the Embassy came up with an attractive tour package, which included a visit to Puerto Princesa Underground River (PPUR), an overnight stay at Dos Palmas Island Resort & Spa, island hopping at Honda Bay, a city tour of Puerto Princesa, and a half-day sightseeing and shopping stopover in Manila.
The visit to PPUR, which was recently declared as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, and to Isla Puting Buhangin, a small island owned by Dos Palmas, served as the highlights of the four-day tour.
Through the Ambassador’s Tours, the Philippine Embassy in Singapore hopes to heighten interest in the Philippines as a travel destination among Singaporeans and foreign nationals based in Singapore, especially those who are in a position to share their positive impressions about the country to their respective networks. “Studies have shown that one job is created for every tourist who visits the Philippines,” said Ambassador Cruz. “This means that if we reach the government’s target of raising our tourist arrivals to 10 million by 2016, from 3.92 million last year, we would be able to create 6 million jobs in 5 years. This is not even counting the employment that can be generated indirectly from tourism. Clearly,
the tourism industry is an important plank of our economic development strategy.” The choice of destination for the first Ambassador’s Tour coincided with the DOT’s objective to intensify its promotion of Palawan. Speaking at the Tourism Roadshow held last 28 February 2012 in Singapore, Ms. Maria Corazon Jorda-Apo, DOT Director for the Americas and Asia-Pacific, said, “We want to encourage Singapore-based travel experts to market Palawan, a beach resort which is undergoing significant development with the help of major foreign investors.” Future Ambassador’s Tours are planned to Donsol for whaleshark viewing, and Cebu and Bohol, among other destinations.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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Article by Anne Luisa Villarico Photo by Arnold Apostol
A PROUD PROTECTOR OF WOMEN AND HUMAN TRAFFICKING VICTIMS he Philippine Embassy’s role in Singapore is not only limited to visa and other consular concerns of Filipinos abroad. It is also tasked in curbing sextrafÀcking affecting mostly Filipina workers who sought to seek employment in the city state. These women, some of whom are even educated and college graduates have been duped or lured by illegal recruiters with non-existent jobs in the service sectors but they ended up working in seedy bars and prostitution den.
In Focus
MINISTER AND CONSUL GENERAL NEAL IMPERIAL:
In Focus
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
Fighting human trafÀcking is one of the major advocacies of Neal Imperial, Minister and Consul General of the Philippine Embassy.
Imperial’s
responsibility extends beyond overseeing the embassy and its operations but also to champion women’s cause by extending assistance and advice to the Filipino victims of trafÀcking here who are mostly women. In a report from the Philippine Embassy, almost all sex trafficking victims that sought the embassy’s assistance were subjected to a form of debt bondage and other forms of exploitation. Imperial has personally interviewed around 500 victims for the three-and-a half years that he was assigned her. “We inform them of their options. We encourage them to file a complaint against their recruiters and traffickers (pimps and/or bar operators) and we provide them with shelter and coordinate their repatriation back to the Philippines,” he says. He also respects the privacy of the trafficked victims. “Before we proceed on what to do next, we advise the victims on the next steps, we asked them on what they what to do. We give them full information on the consequences on their decision,” he says. Imperial is however aware that human trafficking is not a simple problem to solve as human trafficking is a complex transnational crimes involving many parties in different jurisdictions. “We have to look at the factors contributing to the destination country (Singapore) and the source country (Philippines). Both countries have to coordinate with each other in order to address this crime.” he said. “Just because there is consent doesn’t mean that the person is not a victim of sex-trafficking. The person may have agreed to go without fully knowing the conditions of work.” He added that some of the victims have been deceived or coerced to work to offer sexual services to their client under conditions similar to debt bondage.
Throughout the years, Imperial has heard a lot of heartbreaking stories regarding women who still pushed through with their plans to come to Singapore. He shared a story of the Filipina who still came to Singapore even if she was pregnant to work in a bar. The woman, he said came into her senses when she was about to sleep with her customer and escaped. She then sought embassy’s assistance to repatriate her. According to the embassy’s records in Singapore, the number of cases recorded about sex-trafficking has decreased. Imperial attributes it to the Philippine’s stringent measures in combating human trafficking the past few years especially at all ports of exit and entry. Imperial has already finished his term in the Philippine consulate here and is going home to the Philippines as he awaits new orders for his next assignment but he is confident that the embassy will continue their work to fight sex trafficking. Imperial’s previous diplomatic postings include the Philippine Embassy in Jakarta and the Philippine Consulate General in Vancouver. Aside from being a diplomat, he is also a poet and has served as Assistant Curator at the Ateneo Art Gallery which inspired him to launch the Philippine Art Trek which was launched in 2006 to give Philippine art the international exposure and recognition overseas.
Source: Philippine Embassy in Singapore report
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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PEPITO MANALOTO IS LIVING THE
“Filipino Dream”
t one point in our lives, we’ve all wished and daydreamed of winning the lottery. Most of us think that it would be the easiest way to solve all our Ànancial woes. Easy and quick money by just betting on those six precious numbers. And some people indeed won and became multi-millionaires after pinning their hopes on this famous game of fate.
One of them is Pepito Manaloto. Although fictional, Pepito represents most Filipinos who’ve hoped of reversing their fortune by playing the lottery. He represents all those individuals lining up the lotto booth, holding in their hands “symbolic” numbers, which others say appeared on their dreams or something to that extent that will catapult them to a life they’ve only imagined or seen on TV and movies.
MaryJane Salomon, Publisher of Bagong Bayani Magazine with the Master Showman and Star Builder Mr. German Moreno
If you’ve followed the series, you would know how Pepito, a man living a “simple and underprivileged life” one day, became the lone winner of P700M in the national lottery overnight. Pepito Manaloto is the “first-ever reality-sitcom conceptualized by comedy actor Michael V” who also portrayed the main character.
As the show unravels the life of how the Manalotos’ handled fame, fortune and adjusted to their newly acquired wealth and totally glamorous lifestyle, you’ll notice how the family’s core values remained in tact. Their main priority is the welfare of the family. And this is even more evident in one of the episodes shot here in Singapore. With the prompting of their youngest child, the whole family visited the Lion City for their two-part special March episodes.
The cast with Ambassador Minda Calaguian-Cruz and Consul General Neal Imperial at the Philippine Embassy in Nassim Road, Singapore
Unlike real-life stories of most instant millionaires, such as Dionie Reyes who won P14,125,032 in the Lotto 6/42 draw on April 22, 2008 and after gambling daily, womanizing, and went on regular drinking sprees, spent everything in just three months (http://ph.news.yahoo. com/lotto-winner-spends-p14m-just-3-months-142725757.html), Pepito, with the advise from family and friends, was smart enough to invest his lucky fortune to businesses, double his wealth and also save-up for the rainy days ahead. He managed to take control of the money and not the other way around. It is best to hope that all of us would know how to handle our fortune, may it be large or small. Yes, money is supposed to be spent and enjoyed, but it should be spent and enjoyed wisely, like Pepito. This is why we can say Pepito is living the “Filipino Dream.”
The cast with Vice Consul Rei Quinonez during their Presscon which was held at 7107 Flavours Restaurant in Marina Square.
Arts & Entertainment
Article by Monica Guerra
People
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BAGON BAGONG AGONGG BAYANI YANI MARCH M MARC MARCH RCHH2012 2012 20
“ONE IS NOT
BORN A WOMAN, ONE BECOMES ONE.”
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People
BAG BA BAGONG AGON ONG NG BAY BAYANI NI MARCH MA 201 22012 012
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
Cover Story
Article by Sankie G. Simbulan Photo by Ohmz Pineda & Wheng Dichoso Illustration by Jonathan Longcanaya
BECAUSE WOMEN HOLD UP
MORE THAN HALF THE SKY
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enturies ago, women did not have the right to suffrage. There were no women serving in public ofÀce, making decisions in the board room, or studying to earn a university degree. Today, because of the countless selfless and tireless efforts of the early feminists, women are able to hold advanced degrees in practically every academic discipline, including law, medicine and engineering, which, in ages past, used to be dominated by men. I still recall these powerful words from the speeches made during the Centennial of the Philippine Feminist Movement back in 2005: We have built our lives on the backs of our mothers and grandmothers, and nurture our dreams on the blood and sweat of our sisters. It would be difficult to imagine what women would be today if our feminist foremothers and foresisters did not stand up to fight for the rights we currently enjoy.
We have borne witness to women elected into public office. In fact, nowadays, it is no longer a novelty for women to ascend to the highest positions of the land, as President or Prime Minister. Filipinos can take pride in being the first in Asia to earn the right to suffrage and the first in Asia to have a woman president. Women voters all over the world are now considered a powerful force, able to shape the future of politics in their country. In the yearly celebrations of Women’s Month every month of March, we have probably come across people quoting the ancient Chinese proverb, “Women hold up half the sky.” But with the growing number of women and the corresponding increase in women’s valuable contributions to society, I believe women today are holding up more than half the sky. Women are natural leaders. We manage our homes well and can more than manage a country competently. We are good economic managers and know the needs of our citizens like the needs of our own children. We are naturally nurturing, we listen and value dialogue and consultation. We are attuned to the needs of others. We care for the environment. We are prayerful. As the late Philippine President and first woman President in Asia Corazon Aquino once said, “Politics must not remain a bastion of male dominance, for there is much that women can bring into politics that would make our world a kinder, gentler place for humanity to thrive in.” While we have gained much ground to improve the status of women, there is still much that is left to be done. Women account for half the world’s population, but also represent a staggering 70% of the world’s poor, bereft of opportunities to chart their future and make a significant, positive impact on society. These women continue to suffer injustice, discrimination, and all sorts of obstacles that get in the way of their basic needs, whether it be good health, safe childbirth, quality education or a decent employment. Freeing disadvantaged women from these chains so that all women can enjoy the benefits of sustainable development necessitates that all of us, whether man or woman, not only take their needs into account, but put these at the front and
center. After all, being a true feminist is not about gender but about believing in human rights and having the conviction to fight for the rights of women to be part of that definition of human rights. We have a duty to uphold and enrich the noble tradition of feminism. This Women’s Month, let us remember and pay tribute to the original spirit of dignity, intelligence and vitality, which the early feminists showed, and pass on the flame to the next generation.
Cover Story
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
Cover Story
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MARY WOLLSTONECRAFT
SIMONE DE BEAUVOIR
CORAZON AQUINO
GABRIELA SILANG
AUNG SAN SUU KYI
HILLARY CLINTON
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Cover Story
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
MARGARET THATCHER
REINABELLE REYES
MIRIAM DEFENSOR SANTIAGO ABOUT THE AUTHOR
IMELDA MARCOS
CHAMSEY SUPSUP
Juzzara G. Simbulan or Sankie is the Upstream Social Performance Manager of Shell Philippines Exploration, operator of the trailblazing Malampaya Deepwater Gas-to-Power project, which supplies half of Luzon’s power generation requirements, powering industries and homes through cleaner-burning and indigenous natural gas (www.malampaya. com). Sankie obtained her undergraduate degree in Broadcast Communication and master’s degree in Psychology from the University of the Philippines. A writer at heart, she maintains a personal blog www.sankieblogger.wordpress. com, where she shares her passion for positively influencing others through her colorful life experiences. Sankie is among the pioneering contributors of Bagong Bayani Magazine, believing in the publication’s advocacy to uplift Overseas Filipino Workers through the magazine’s edifying news and feature stories.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
Opinion
Article by Justice Francisco-Schaffer
OH!
WOMEN L
2005 Photo with my Mom and my sisters and only brother. My Mom passed away in 2007 so this photo is the last one we had of all of us together—with the power WOMAN I have known
et’s start with me developing my individuality surrounded by my mother and 4 sisters; and seeing women as the constant presence in the house. Of course my father and brother were there but still, I didn’t see them so much. As a young father of 6 kids, providing a good life was his focus. And my brother being 9 years younger wasn’t much of an interest to the 10-year old me. Even when I became a teen, the age difference was just too great to make a bond during those times. So I ended up bonding mostly with my sisters, all 1970 babies that we are. At school, our consistent companion and attendee ofprograms was our mother. Then add to that the fact that there are more women in our household—the helpers, nannies, cook and nurse of my grandmother. (Even themajority of our dogs are female too) So how else should I see women besides being the absolute strength and necessity of any home?
are called the weaker sex by those who cannot accept the reality that we aren’t. Declared physically and emotionally unstable yet when the going gets tough and we’re pushed to the wall, nothing can stop us from standing up and getting back on our feet.
Ever wonder why women and not men give birth? It’s because we have that inner strength that not all can understand and the patience to endure a long wait. We
If you ask me what’s the greatest achievement of women? We exist.
I have heard men say that women make them crazy. Honestly, sometimes I wonder if they’re right. But then I realize, “No we do not”; in fact it’s quite the opposite. We put LIFE in their lives. We put color and art in the once plain, unfriendly space and make it welcoming to everyone. We put carefully chosen food on the dinner table so they stay healthy. We put music in their lives as we sing to our children to sleep or as they run and laugh around the house. Perhaps yes, in a way they’re right that women (will) make them crazy—but it’s not because we are there, it’s when we aren’t.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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Events
SCREENING OF JOSE RIZAL, A FILM BY MARILOU DIAZ-ABAYA, ON THE OCCASSION OF THE SESQUICENTENARY OF
DR JOSE RIZAL Vice Consul Jed Llona, Labor Attache Atty. Rodolfo Sabulao, Lloyd Pagulayan, representative of GMA Networks International and other guests.
MaryJane Salomon, publisher of BAGONG BAYANI (Modern-Day Hero) magazine with Ambassador D. Federico Palomera Güez of Spain and Ambassador Alfredo Toro Hardy of Venezuela
Ambassador Tran Hai Hau and wife of Vietnam
MaryJane Salomon , Publisher of BAGONG BAYANI magazine with Consul Catherine Torres and Ms. Lani Angeles.
(L-R) Maria Jose Ramirez of the Cultural & Public Affairs, Embassy of Spain her friend Pilar and MaryJane Salomon, publisher of BAGONG BAYANI magazine
MAGAZINE PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION OF SINGAPORE (MPAS)
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING
Ms. MaryJane Salomon, Publisher of BAGONG BAYANI (Modern-Day Hero) magazine attended the Magazine Publishers Association of Singapore (MPAS) Annual General Meeting which was held at the NUS Society Suntec City Guild House, Singapore, 03 April 2012. MPAS is the representative organisation of Singapore's magazine print publishing and online publishing industry. BAGONG BAYANI magazine holds the distinction as the FIRST and the ONLY Filipino magazine in Singapore to become a member of this association. From L-R: Mr. Richard Nilsson- Business Development Director of Lifestyle Asia, Mr. Andrew Yeo-Publisher and Editorial Director of Asia Pacific Broadcasting, Mr. Alex Cano-Publisher and General Representative of Russian Business Council Singapore, Ms. Anusha Senan-Account Manager of Retail Asia and Mr. Andrew Smart- Executive Director of MPAS and Director of Tanglin Media Group.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
JUNELLE A. ABRINGE SALES AND OPERATIONS MANAGER AGE:
19 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
DIPLOMA IN HOTEL AND CASINO MANAGEMENT YEARS IN SG:
IM HAPPY LIVING IN SINGAPORE FOR 3 YEARS NOW
ON MAKING PEOPLE HAPPY: After my parents decided to move to Singapore, and our permanent residence has been approved, they took me to move here, as well. After my schooling, I had a series of different jobs from Food and Beverage to Retail industries. Then finally I was hired as Sales and Operations Manager in chartering business.We mainly do charters in Singapore and help organize events such as birthday party, theme party, corporate meeting and many other kinds of so cial gatherings. I’ve been through different kinds of guests-from different races to nationalities with different needs and wants, and I realized that In this job, it doesn’t matter how much money I make, but if I make many people happy then I’m a satisfied and a happy person.
ON BEING A ROLE MODEL FOR THE YOUTH: I am delighted to be one of the Bagong Bayani in Singapore. At an early age, I have learned how important it is to be responsible for my own life. I hope I can be a role model for the young people. My goal is to find happiness in what I do. I stand up as a Filipino in heart, and I honour my country and every filipino who has worked and is working for the good of our nation.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
MARIA RIZA CARCALLAS FOREIGN DOMESTIC WORKER AGE:
27 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN FISHERIES YEARS IN SG:
3 YEARS
ON BEING A BREADWINNER: The needs of my family especially my brothers and sisters brought me to work here in this country. Being the eldest of six children I have to take the heavy responsibility after our father passed away years ago. No choice.
ON BEING A GOOD DAUGHTER AND A SISTER: It is for my family why I left the Philippines and came to work abroad to provide a better future for them. I am proud to be called a BAGONG BAYANI.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
MYRENE GONZALES TABOR QS/ ENGINEER AGE:
31 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING YEARS IN SG:
4 YEARS AND 5 MONTHS
ON BEING A PROUD “CONSTRUCTION WORKER”: My not so good experiences in the Philippines plus financial needs is the main reasons why I decided to try my luck abroad and luckily I’ve been a‘Construction Worker’ here for more than four years now. Being a Filipina has its perks, I can do more than one task at a time. I am usually involved in the overall Project Construction, from the Tender Stage where I do QS works, to Construction Phase and take charge of the site up to the Project Completion. I was part of the team who did the Marina Barrage and I am quite proud about it.
ON BEING A PROUD FOREIGN TALENT: Proud. Happy. Sad. Proud because I am somehow representing our country in the industry that I am in today, and I am also sharing some percent of my earnings to our country every time I send money for my family. Happy because I can now provide well for my family and Sad because being away from them is never and will never be an easy thing. I miss them a lot, my Tatay, my Nanay and my Sister. OFWs are always branded as well-offs thus people are expecting something grand from us whenever we come home. Little did they know that behind those lively Facebook photos, we are suffering from homesickness that’s why after hours of working, we usually find time to be with our friends--our second family away from home.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
33
People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
KAREN SHAULA T. MORGA TICKETING SUPERVISOR (PENTRAVEL & TOURS (S) PTE LTD EDUCATION:
BS TOURISM AT POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES YEARS IN SG:
1 YEAR
ON BEING ABLE TO PROMOTE THE PHILIPPINES: I am in the travel industry and work as Tours/Ticketing Supervisor at PenTravel & Tours (S) Pte Ltd. I am happy to be of service to our kababayans especially to those who are returning to the Philippines.
ON BEING AWAY FROM HOME: It is not easy to be away from my family. In fact, it is the most difficult part of being an Overseas Filipino Worker.The mere factthatwe sacrifice everything just tobe able to work abroad and send money back home is good enough for us to be called a BAGONG BAYANI, and I am proud to be one.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
RHODA FAILANO ASSISTANT SALES MANAGER AGE:
31 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
BS-COMMERCE COMPUTER MANAGEMENT YEARS IN SG:
4 YEARS
ON NOT GIVING UP: I was excited,thrilled and jubilant when I was told of the good news that I have been selected to work here in Singapore. Working and living in a foreign country for the first time will always have it’s pros and cons. During the first year,I was caught in a struggle. I had to accustom myself to an entirely different culture, food,lifestyle and even communication barrier. And being far from my family,friends and the place I had known my entire life didn’t ease in adjusting to my daily endeavors. I told myself I shouldn’t give up. “No patience, no victory” became my mantra. I took it all in. Accepted everything as a challenge to work hard and prove to myself that I’m meant to do so much more. Fast forward to two years after, I was promoted as the Assistant Sales Manager. All of my efforts paid off. Yes, with this new responsibility comes bigger expectations.But the experience I gained over the years had led me to believe that you have to treat each struggle,challenges as an inspiration to learn more, improve and to give your best effort in everything you do...wherever life takes you.
ON BEING A GOOD EXAMPLE TO OTHERS: To be chosen as a “Bagong Bayani” is truly an honor. I am truly proud to be one. They would often say that Filipinos are talented, smart and driven. I couldn’t agree more. A hero is someone that people look up to, noble or someone who would sacrifice his own life for the sake of others. Being an OFW, I strongly believe that if you show your talent, knowledge and skills to the world while being true to your roots; I’d say that it is genuine heroism. And I am proud to be one. Proud to be Pinoy, Proud to be “Bagong Bayani”.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
DEBIE CASTRO BARANGAN AUDIT ASSOCIATE AGE:
26 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN ACCOUNTANCY YEARS IN SG:
9 MONTHS
ON BEING BOTH A FOREIGN TALENT AND A SERVANT OF GOD: I decided to work in Singapore because I want to realize my dreams for my family on a shorter time possible. My heart’s desire is to become a Missionary Worker of CFC Singles for Christ community of which I am a member for almost 10 years now (started as CFC Youth for Christ). When I came here, I was so blessed to have good friends and people who helped me get the job where I could give the best of my abilities. I am working in an international audit firm and my job is giving me a lot of opportunities for career development. My life after-work is all about CFC Singles for Christ service. My new found motto is “There is more fun in serving the Lord”. Currently, I am serving as DGL (Discussion Group Leader) in our Christian Life Program at St. Vincent de Paul Church, Yio Chu Kang which runs for 13 Sundays.
ON BEING A COMMUNITY BUILDER: I feel so elated to be considered a Bagong Bayani. Being an active member in the community, I believe that, in my own simple ways, I can live up to this title by sharing God’s love and greatness with my fellow overseas workers.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
TINCHU JUALO-KANE ACCOUNT MANAGER AT SWIFT WORLDWIDE RESOURCES (PREMIER MANPOWER PROVIDER IN OIL AND GAS INDUSTRY) AGE:
35 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN CIVIL ENGINEERING YEARS IN SG:
3 YEARS
ON SHIFTING PRIORITIES: My husband came here first from Macau to take advantage of the opportunities working at the IR’s. Based on his strong recommendation of what this country can offer us, I have decided not to renew my contract in Macau and decided to seek employment in Singapore. I am currently working with Swift, an internationally known premier manpower provider in the oil and gas industry. I began as a Sales Administrator and then in few months I was promoted to Recruitment Consultant, with hard work and determination I have been fortunate to become an Account Manager.
ON DISCOVERING FILIPINO TALENTS: I am proud to be a Bagong Bayani. As OFWs, we show bravery by risking detachment from our home and families in pursuit of a better standard of living and salary. I am very fortunate to work as part of the Global Team of Swift WWR. As headhunter of different nationalities such as Singaporean, Filipino, Myanmar, Malaysian, Thai, Burmese, Indonesian, American, British, European and etc. I see most often how our the Filipinos stand out due to their performance. My best advice that I could share with my fellow Filipino is, do your daily performance above and beyond the expectations. Great performance will always lead you to greater opportunities, but never forget to be humble, never let money change you.
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
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People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
ARLEEN VICTORINO CAPARAS MARKETING OFFICER, IREMIT SINGAPORE PTE. LTD. AGE:
35 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
COMPUTER SCIENCE YEARS IN SG:
12 YEARS
ON BEING A SUPPORTIVE WIFE: I went to Singapore to be with my husband, and after a few years, we took our children to study here. As Marketing Officer of one of the biggest Filipino remittance centers in Singapore, I am happy that I am given the opportunity to serve and interact with my fellow Filipinos in Singapore. It also gives me the chance to help our kababayans and meet new friends.
ON BEING A PROUD MODERN-DAY HERO: It’s a great honour to be called a “Bagong Bayani”.
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH MARCH2012 2012
People
PROMISING MODERN-DAY HEROES
VERONICA FLORES PUBLIC RELATIONS (SINGAPORE CRICKET CLUB) AGE:
34 YEARS OLD EDUCATION:
BACHELOR OF ARTS MAJOR IN MASS COMMUNICATION YEARS IN SG:
1 YEAR AND 7 MONTHS
ON BEING FLEXIBLE While travelling here in Singapore , I was fascinated with Singapore Cricket Club and told myself I will be working in that Club soon. That’s how it all started. I consider myself blessed and at the same time quite lucky with everything as always. So while working at the House of Representatives way back in the Philippines as a Political Affairs Officer, I received a call from the Club (Head of F&B and Events) for a short phone interview and flew here in Singapore for my final interview. I got the job offer as an Admin Executive at first, did Banquet and Events next, and finally the Management decided that they can take advantage of my public relations skill (Interacting with people), and now I am with Member Services Desk team.
ON BEING A PROUD FILIPINO WOMAN: I am a proud Filipina in all aspects. We are a country of smiling people and singing people, and I always make it a point to highlight all the positive characteristics and attributes of being a proper Filipina woman. Gaining the respect and admiration of other nationalities, really is a Pinay power!
BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
Sports
40
ROUND THINGS ALL AND
T
PSRC
hree years ago, a group of Filipino sports enthusiasts formed a club they the named Pinoy Sports and Recreation Club or simply PSRC. The club’s aim ai is to pursue an active lifestyle through sports and fun-Àlled activities.
PSRC is a non profit organization which was then spearheaded by its founding President Emman Zoleta. The club now has over 200 active members in their bowling and tennis groups. PSRC has won several awards in bowling competitions such as the Southeast Asian Overseas Filipino Bowling (SEAOFB) Tournaments and Singapore Ambassador Cup's Bowling Tournament. As its name implies, PSRC also promotes and explores the best destinations in our country, the Philippines. Members who participated at their own cost acknowledge the joy and recreationthat they had at the trips. To date, PSRC has been to Palawan,Cebu, Baguio City, Bohol, Pangasinan, Ilocos Norte, Pampanga, Bataan, Zamboanga and Boracay. Last 25 March 2012 , the club celebrated its 3rd year anniversary of registration with the Singapore Registry of Societies. It was
PRSC’s 3rd Anniversary
commemorated by a fun-bowl and buffet lunch at SAFRA Mt. Faber where they also hold their weekly Tuesday League team event and the monthly singles tournament.
Meanwhile, four (4) teams are representing PSRC in the ongoing Singapore Tennis Association (STA) Interclub Singles League 2012 tennis tournament.
“We’re still a young club but we’re growing stronger each year”, said Lito Azcarraga, PSRC’s current President, as he welcomed and thanked the members for their support and active participation in the club’s activities.
Those who are interested to join PSRC may contact us at our website http://psrcsingapore.org
Community Service
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BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012
OVERSEAS ABSENTEE VOTING (OAV) REGISTRATION AT THE EMBASSY
Registration for Overseas Absentee Voting (OAV) is ongoing at the Philippine Embassy. All citizens of the Philippines who intend to vote in Singapore during the 2013 National Elections, born on or before 13 May 1995, and are otherwise not disqualified by law may register. Those who are already registered in the Philippines must register as overseas absentee voters at the Embassy in order to vote in Singapore in 2013. In order to register, applicants must personally appear at the Embassy and present their valid passport, employment permit (work permit, S-Pass, E-Pass) and/or identification card. Seafarers must also present their Seaman’s Book, and dual citizens must present the Order of Approval or Oath of Allegiance issued by a Philippine Embassy or Consulate or the Bureau of Immigration. Singapore Permanent Residents may register upon executing an affidavit that he shall resume actual physical permanent residence in the Philippines not later than three (3) years from registration, and that he has not applied for citizenship in another country. Filipinos who voted in Singapore during the 2007 or 2010 national elections and whose biometrics had already been captured need not register, unless they will be changing their voter records, such as their surname or address. The Embassy shall be open for OAV Registration on from Sunday to Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:30 30 p.m. and from 1:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., except pt during Philippine and other holidays which shalllll be announced by the Embassy on its website.. Registration shall run until 31 October 2012.. For further queries, interested applicants may e-mail php@pacific.net.sg and indicate “OAV Registration” in the subject line.
Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Skills Training
(FAST)
FAST was formed on 23 March 2005. It is a non-profit making organization and a registered charity since Dec 2007.
T Second FDW Day, 4 Dec 2011 From left: Mr Ho Siong Hin, Divisional Director, Ministry of Manpower, Her Excellency Ferial Ismail Ashraff, High Commissioner from Sri Lanka, Mr Seah Seng Choon, President FAST, Mr Tan Chuan-Jin Minister of State, Ministry of National Development and Ministry of Manpower, Her Excellency Minda C Cruz, Ambassador from the Philippines and Mr William Chew, Vice President FAST
HE purpose of FAST is to work through livelihood development courses and training to achieve a common good for the migrant domestic workers, their employers, the host community and the source countries. A better skilled worker will benefit herself as she will enjoy better work relationship with her employer, her pay is likely to increase and it also enhances her lifelong employability. Her employer will enjoy better quality service. With the strong support from the Lee Foundation since 2005, as well as from the Keppel Corporation Limited last year, FAST has been able to provide skills enhancement to more than 16,000 foreign domestic workers in Singapore. FAST partnered with the community clubs and other training providers to provide affordable yet quality training programmes during weekends. In addition, FAST also provides training subsidy to participants. Our courses include computer literacy, infant care, foot reflexology, stress management, hairdressing, sewing, healthy cooking and international cuisines of restaurant standard dishes and baking classes. We wish more FDWs will spend their rest day in a meaning and fruitful way.
FAST Executive Committee Front row from left: Mr Mohan representing Sun Love Home - Committee Member, Mr Seah Seng Choon - President and VP Mr William Chew Back row from left: Mdm Amoon Ibrahim - Manager, Ms S. Hamidah Binte S. Abdullah Bahashwan - Asst Treasurer, Mrs Quek-Ng Siew Fong â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Secretary and Mrs Helen Tan - Treasurer Committee members not shown: Pastor Solano Reynaldo Ortiz and Mr Kenneth Yap
Infant Care Class
Dishes from the Chinese Cooking Class
FAST recognizes the important role that the domestic helpers play in the Singapore society and economy. FAST decided to organize FDW day to show our appreciation. FAST led 10 other NGOs to organize a FDW Day to celebrate and pay tribute to the domestic workers. With the support of the Ministry of Manpower, donors and sponsors, the 1st FDW Day was held on 1st Sunday of Dec 2010. The second FDW day was organized in 2011. Entertainment programmes were put in place for FDWs to enjoy. Delicious food was served as well. The 3rd FDW Day will be held on 2 Dec 2012. We hope to see more of them attending in the coming FDW Days.
Cakes and pastry from the Baking Class
Foreign Domestic Worker Association for Skills Training 120 Kim Seng Road Singapore 239436 Tel: 6735 7687 Fax: 6735 4322 www.fast.org.sg Email: contact@fast.org.sg
Food Mary Jane Aquino-Gourlay graduated at at-sunrise Global Chef Academy Singapore & Gastronomicom French Culinary in South of France Cap’d’Agde……For more information email at : french.cuisiniere@gmail.com
Please watch out for this page for free cooking classes…
R ATAT T OUIL L LE
MARCH 2012
F rench Cooking by: Le Chef Gourlay The word "ratatouille" comes from Occitan ratatolha and the recipe comes from Occitan cuisine. The French word "touiller" means to toss food. Ratatouille originated in the area around present day Occitan Provença (French: Provence) and Niça (French: Nice); the Catalan "xamfaina" and the Majorcan "tombet" are versions of the same dish. According to Joël Robuchon, "the secret of a good ratatouille is to cook the vegetables separately so each will taste truly of itself". The Complete Robuchon Ratatouille is usually served as a side dish, but also may be served as a meal on its own (accompanied by pasta, rice or bread). Tomatoes are a key ingredient, with garlic, onions, courgettes (zucchini), aubergine (eggplant), poivron (bell peppers), marjoram and basil, or bay leaf and thyme, or a mix of green herbs like herbes de Provence.
2 medium eggplants peeled and cubed ½ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 medium size onions chopped or sliced 3 ripe but firm tomatoes seeded and quartered Salt
2 medium size zucchini peeled and thinly sliced 3 green bell peppers seeded and cut into thin strips 1 garlic cloves crushed 2 tbsp herbes de provence wrapped in cheesecloth Fresh ground black pepper to taste
1. Lay the eggplant cubes on some paper towels and sprinkle with salt. Leave them to drain of their bitter juices for 30 minutes then pat dry with paper towels. 2. In a large skillet or casserole, heat the olive oil over medium heat, then cook the onions until translucent, about 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the eggplant, tomatoes, zucchini, peppers, and garlic and shake or stir gently. Add the herbes de Provence, season with salt and pepper, and stir to mix. Cover and simmer over a medium-low heat until much of the liquid is evaporated and the vegetables tender, about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Strain away any remaining liquid and serve at room temperature with bread. Variation: In step 2, cook each vegetable one after the other, adding more olive oil when required, and mix all the vegetables once they are cooked. Yield: Makes 6 servings preparation
Time: 1:45 hours
(Photo source by internet /some details are from Wikipedia )
There is much debate on how to make a traditional ratatouille. One method is to simply sauté all of the vegetables together. Some cooks, including Julia Child, insist on a layering approach, where the eggplant and the zucchini are sautéed separately, while the tomatoes, onion, garlic and bell peppers are made into a sauce. The ratatouille is then layered in a casserole – aubergine, courgettes, tomato/pepper mixture – then baked in an oven. A third method, favored by Joël Robuchon, is similar to the first method; however, the ingredients are not baked in an ovenbut rather recombined in a large pot and simmered. When ratatouille is used as a filling for savory crêpes or to fill an omelette, the pieces are sometimes cut smaller than in the illustration. Also, unnecessary moisture is reduced by straining the liquid with a colander into a bowl, reducing it in a hot pan, then adding one or two tablespoons of reduced liquid back into the vegetables. Filled aubergine dishes exist in Ligurian (Rattatuia), Bulgarian, Dalmatian/Croatian, Greek, Albanian, Maltese, Sicilian, Turkish, Persian, and Venetian cuisine, but may include salted sardines or anchovies. Pisto manchego and PINAKBET are similar dishes in Spanish and Filipino cuisine, respectively.
Cirque du Marche offers Food, Finds and Family Fun A Lifestyle and Gourmet Festival, Cirque du Marche, will be held at the Chijmes Hall on Sunday, 15 April 2012. This roving fair, which features gastronomic delights from around the world, has been a favourite destination of foodies and selective shoppers since it was first held last 2011. Through the year the event has been held in iconic landmarks, The Esplanade Waterfront, as well as premium shopping places such as Orchard Central. As expected, this edition of the much-awaited Festival will also feature quality wines, delectable desserts and special organic ingredients from some of Singapore’s top restaurants and culinary shops. At the same time, shoppers will again be pleased with the line-up of home decor, fashion, fair trade and eco-friendly accessories – all available from the country’s premier boutiques and shops.
showcase culinary demonstrations and wine tasting, carnival and cultural acts and lucky draws. Guests can even marvel at the latest high performance BMW M models through the special participation of the BMW M Club Singapore.
To add to the excitement and revelry, the indoor event will
Cirque du Marche (French for ‘Circus and Market’) will be open from 10 Contact: Celia Defato, (65) 9382 5016
am to 8pm – making it the ideal place for a Sunday brunch straight through to a family dinner. This FREE ADMISSION event is organized by KULTURA Pte Ltd and made possible by event Partners, BMW, Nestle, Great New Places.com, Santa Fe Relocation, Affluent Magazine and Le Crusset.
46 BAGONG BAYANI MARCH 2012 Photos By: Arnold Apostol and MBS
People
Despedida for Consul General Neal Imperial Breakfast at Charlieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kitchen
Lunch at the Singapore Cricket Club
Dinner at 7107 Flavours
ay Happy Birthd
! Jelly Nobles
Happy Birthday
Evangeline Conliffe!