Barbie Forteza
Philippine diplomats grace FCNC conference in Winnipeg
by Lucille Nolasco-Garrido
The Filipino Canadian National Congress (FCNC) held its Third Annual Leadership Convention and National Gala on September 21 at the Victoria Inn Hotel and Convention Centre in Winnipeg.
With the theme “Strengthening Communities from Coast to Coast to Coast,” more than a hundred delegates from different parts of Canada spent the day building connections, new friendships, and listening to inspiring guest speakers on various topics.
Among the guest speakers were Senator Gigi Osler who spoke about the health and safety of the elderly; MP Rechie Valdez who discussed entrepreneurship; and Ambassador Andrelita Austria who touched on the Credentials Recognition Program.
“Every time Filipinos come together for a singular purpose is very important. If the Filipinos can come together and agree on pursuing certain actions, I am sure
See FCNC p2
From Manila to Manitoba: the VC Cuevas journey of baking success
On November 7, 2024, Vergilio “Ver” Cuevas will attend a grand reunion in the Philippines of member-bakers of the Asosasyon ng mga Panaderong Pilipino (APP), formerly known as Cuenca Bakers Association. The town of Cuenca in Batangas is famously known as the baker’s capital of the Philippines.
It is currently the largest community bakers’ organization in the country, and bakeries operated by its members are mostly located in Metro Manila and surrounding areas. Cuevas is expected to be feted with a special honour during the reunion. This is his story. The year was 1965. Fifteenyear-old Ver Cuevas started his journey from of Cuenca, Batangas, toward bakery success in Pandacan, Manila.
His uncle Wilfredo Miranda, who owned a bakery, trained him on how to make delicious Filipino breads such as pandesal, ensaymada, pan de coco and so many others. There, Ver also
See CUEVAS p9
Her Excellency Maria Andrelita Austria, Philippine Ambassador to Canada
L-r: Michael, Beverly and Anna Michaella Reves, Cora and Ver Cuevas. Photo by Rey-Ar Reyes
As we head into October, many people are talking about how busy it feels. Families with young children are trying to manage school, plus kids’ activities in the evenings and on weekends. Some are worried about aging parents and having to help them out more.
Managing personal life commitments can be even more challenging when people also have busy work lives. At this time of year, many workplaces charge ahead with projects and tight deadlines, trying to get things done before the holiday season. It is common to feel pulled into working overtime, as well as skipping lunch and coffee breaks.
Work stress has escalated to alarming levels. While some stress is natural and can motivate individuals to perform better, chronic work stress is harmful. Left unchecked, it can lead to physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion, affecting both professional and personal life.
The dangers of work stress
The dangers of prolonged work stress can come up in many ways:
1. Physical health risks: Chronic stress can lead to an overproduction of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Over time, this can result in health issues such as high blood pressure, heart
FCNC...
From page 1
it will happen,” Austria said.
“Like the issue of credentials recognition – it is a long term, multi-year effort but we’re seeing some progress because our efforts are being replicated all across the community. So, let’s help each other and we can go farther.”
Other Philippine diplomats who attended FCNC were Consul General Angelica Escalona (Toronto), Consul Rodney Jonas Sumague, and Honourary Consul Ronald Opina (Manitoba).
According to President Eddie Villarta, the FCNC also serves as a platform for connecting communities and for delegates to bring back to their respective communities what they have learned.
“The outcome that we’d like to have after this convention is for the people who participated to be inspired. They will be able to bring
disease, weakened immune system, headaches, and stomach problems. Stress has also been linked to increased risk for conditions like stroke, diabetes, and even cancer.
2. Mental and emotional health: Ongoing work stress severely affects mental health. It can lead to anxiety, depression, burnout, and emotional exhaustion. There can be pressure to meet deadlines, disagreements with coworkers, and heavy workloads. This all drains mental energy. Over time, high levels of stress can impact cognitive function, memory, and concentration.
3. Social consequences:
Relationships with family, friends, and colleagues can deteriorate when work stress spills over into personal life. Stress can lead to mood swings and withdrawal, making it difficult to engage in social activities or maintain close relationships. In extreme cases, it can result in isolation, and someone in this situation can feel very lonely and helpless.
4. Professional decline: Stress can also lead to lower work performance and career setbacks because it can negatively impact focus, creativity, and decisionmaking. It can lead to more sickdays or feeling disengaged. People may experience job loss due to
home something they’ve learned and after that, they will be able to collaborate with people they met in the convention, whether it’s a new friendship, new business connections, so there will be a call to action,” Villarta said.
For newly elected FCNC 1st Vice President and head of the Winnipeg organizers, Genalyn Tan, the convention allows attendees to build partnerships and collaboration.
“At the end of the day my hope is that everyone will leave feeling inspired and motivated, and become better leaders for their own communities.”
The FCNC is a duly registered national not-for-profit organization affiliated with the Canada-Philippines Parliamentary Friendship Group and is mandated to represent the strong Filipino presence in Canada. The organization also advocates for important and critical issues affecting Filipinos in Canada.
Let go of work stress and achieve work-life balance!
burnout or declining performance.
So, is there a solution? Professionals advise everyone to aim for work-life balance. Why is work-life balance important?
Work-life balance means feeling stable and content with both career and personal life. Here are some reasons why having that balance is beneficial:
1. Mental and emotional well-being: Building in time for relaxation, hobbies, and family life allows people to recharge mentally. When people can disconnect from work, they experience lower levels of stress and anxiety, which helps prevent burnout and emotional exhaustion. A healthy worklife balance leaves employees better equipped to handle work pressures when they return to their professional duties.
2. Physical health: When individuals have time to engage in exercise, maintain a healthy diet, and get sufficient rest, their overall health improves. This reduces the risk of developing stress-related illnesses and promotes long-term well-being.
3. Increased productivity and creativity: Taking breaks from work to focus on personal life boosts productivity and creativity. When employees are well-rested and mentally refreshed, they are more likely to perform better at work. They can approach tasks
with a clearer mind, make better decisions, and solve problems better.
4. Improved relationships: Work-life balance is key to maintaining healthy relationships. When individuals have time for their family, friends, and social activities, they are more likely to have emotional support. This reduces the risk of isolation and promotes a sense of belonging. This is important for healthy mental well-being.
5. Job satisfaction: Employees who maintain a work-life balance are generally happier with their jobs. When people can pursue their personal interests and have healthy relationships outside of work, they can enjoy both their personal and professional lives. This satisfaction often leads to increased loyalty to their employer and lower turnover rates. How to achieve work-life balance
Here are some tips on:
1. Set boundaries: One of the most effective ways to achieve work-life balance is to set clear boundaries between work and personal life. This includes setting specific work hours and sticking to them. Avoid checking e-mails or answering work-related calls during personal time. By creating a clear distinction between work and home life, people can prevent work from interfering with their personal time.
2. Time management: Effective time management is key to maintaining balance. Prioritize tasks, and delegate or ask for help when possible. Use calendars, todo lists, or project management software to keep track of deadlines and responsibilities.
3. Take breaks: Regular breaks during work hours are essential for maintaining focus and reducing stress. Short breaks allow the brain to rest, which prevents burnout and improves productivity. Additionally, taking vacations or personal days off provides an opportunity to recharge and return to work with renewed energy.
4. Learn to say no: It’s important to recognize when you’re taking on too much. Learning to say no is crucial to maintaining balance. Avoid overcommitting to tasks and projects.
5. Practice self-care: Selfcare practices such as exercise, meditation, reading, or engaging in hobbies can significantly reduce stress. If you prioritize personal well-being, you can manage the demands of work without compromising your health.
“Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.”
- Dolly Parton
Cheryl Dizon-Reynante is a licensed therapist with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association.
L-r: MP for Winnipeg South Centre Ben Carr, Senator Gigi Osler, MP for Winnipeg North Kevin Lamoureux, and Federal Minister of Small Business Rechie Valdez
L-r: MLA for The Maples Mintu Sandhu, MP for Winnipeg Centre Leah Gazan, MP for Transcona Leila Dance, and MB Minister of Labour and Immigration Malaya Marcelino
L-r: MP for Neepawa Dan Mazier, Atty. Rachelle Punzalan, Katya LaBelle and MLA for Fort Whyte Obby Khan
Dr. Tricia Magsino-Barnabé
Mervin Sison with Janice Wallace and Jett Panganiban
MP Kevin Lamoureux presented the Oath of Office certificates to FCNC 2024 officers. MP Lamoureux and Ambassador Austria also gave them medallions commemorating the 75 years of Canada and Philippines diplomatic relations.
Manitoba Opera uncorks a Season of Romance
2024/25 Season Productions Overflow with Young
Manitoba Opera will present two crowd-pleasing productions in its 2024/25 Season. The season will kick off with the Donizetti comedy that is sure to win everyone’s heart, The Elixir of Love, October 26, 30, and November 1, 2024. The timeless tale of love and loss, Puccini’s La Bohème will close the season April 5, 9, and 11, 2025 All performances take place at the Centennial Concert Hall.
“We have two lovely vintages on the list, so I invite you to join us in uncorking a season of delicious opera next year,” commented Larry Desrochers, Manitoba Opera General Director & CEO. “First off, we have The Elixir of Love , a sparkling champagne of an opera, effervescent with charm and laughter. If The Elixir of Love is champagne, then La Bohème is surely a rich and velvety red, swirling with passion and pathos.”
The Story: THE ELIXIR
OF LOVE Music by Gaetano
Donizetti
Lovesick Nemorino, the poor but good-hearted country boy, has fallen madly in love with the rich, smart, and beautiful Adina. She’s out of his league, but luckily the scheming Dr. Dulcamara has just the cure for what ails him: drink his celebrated love potion and within 24 hours, Adina will be unable to resist him. Will this magical tincture really work?
Gaetano Donizetti’s sparkling opera is overflowing with tunes to dazzle your ear and warm your heart.
The Story: LA BOHÈME Music by Giacomo Puccini
Poor in cash but rich in dreams, the poet Rodolfo and the frail but beautiful seamstress Mimì chance upon each other one cold winter’s night and fall in love. But soon winter fades, taking with it the love of a lifetime.
Soaring, lyrical, and intensely emotional, this is the
Laughter &
music
A scene from the delightful comedy The Elixir of Love, last presented by Manitoba Opera in 2005.
Photo: R. Tinker
that made Puccini a legend and inspired the Broadway sensation and hit movie Rent
Lifestyle links to heart health go beyond food, exercise
What are steps you can take beyond a healthy diet and exercise to improve your heart health? In this expert alert, Gosia Wamil, M.D., Ph.D., a cardiologist at Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, answers that question and more.
1. Does loneliness affect heart health?
Loneliness and social isolation have been linked to heart disease, Dr. Wamil says.
“Studies suggest that people who experience chronic loneliness may be at a higher risk of developing cardiovascular diseases,” Dr. Wamil says. “Social connections and supportive relationships contribute to overall well-being, and the lack of these connections can lead to increased stress, inflammation and unhealthy lifestyle behaviours, all of which can impact heart health adversely.”
Socializing is generally good for heart health, Dr. Wamil adds.
“Positive social interactions can reduce stress, lower blood pressure and improve overall emotional well-being,” she says. “Engaging in social activities, spending time with loved ones and building a solid social support network can protect the heart.”
2. How does alcohol affect the heart?
“While moderate alcohol consumption may have some cardiovascular benefits, excessive drinking can lead to high blood pressure, cardiomyopathy and arrhythmias,” Dr. Wamil says. “It’s crucial to adhere to recommended guidelines for alcohol intake and consult with a healthcare professional about individual risk factors.”
3. How can someone tell the difference between a panic attack and a heart attack?
“Heart attack symptoms often
include radiating pain to the left arm, your jaw or back. Other symptoms can be nausea and sweating,” Dr. Wamil says. “Panic attacks may involve a sudden surge of intense fear and discomfort, often with a feeling of impending doom.”
Dr. Wamil advises against guessing the answer to this question.
“If unsure, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if you are experiencing symptoms suggestive of a heart attack, as this condition requires prompt evaluation and treatment,” she says.
4. What signs or symptoms should you watch for in your overall heart health?
Signs of potential heart issues include chest pain or discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, dizziness, and irregular heartbeats. It’s important to be aware of these symptoms and seek medical attention if they occur, especially if they are severe or persistent.
5. How can you protect your heart health during festive times, when food is plentiful, and you may not exercise as often?
It’s all about mindfulness, Dr. Wamil says.
“Pay attention to portion sizes and avoid overindulging in highcalorie and high-fat foods,” she says. “Moderation is vital when it comes to alcohol to prevent potential heart issues. Keep your body active by incorporating physical activities into your festive routines, helping to counteract the effects of increased calorie intake. Manage stress with techniques like mindfulness and deep breathing, as stress can impact your heart health.”
Avoid highly processed foods that contain added sugars,
excessive salt and trans fats, and limit saturated fats in red meat, full-fat dairy and fried foods, she adds.
“These simple steps can contribute to a healthier and happier festive season for your heart,” Dr. Wamil says.
6. What are some hearthealthy foods that people can work into their meals?
Heart-healthy foods include fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, Dr. Wamil says.
“Whole grains are also important,” she adds. “Oats, quinoa and brown rice provide fibre and nutrients.”
When it comes to protein, focus on lean options, such as fish, beans, legumes and skinless poultry. Also consider working in healthy fats by adding avocados, nuts, seeds and olive oil to your diet, Dr. Wamil says.
– Mayo Clinic News Network
The Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra offers much-requested matinée concerts this season!
Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra
patrons have been asking for more afternoon concerts and this year, the orchestra is presenting two new concert series. With hopes of keeping music lovers coming back and encouraging the orchestrally curious to give the WSO a try, the Manitoba Liquor Marts Live at the WSO Matinées feature Pops, Holiday favourites, and a few laughs.
These concerts, which start at 2:00 p.m., are presented in the traditional POPS format and showcase the talented musicians of the orchestra and local artists.
70 Years of POPS and A Prairie Christmas Celebration are two of the concerts being offered along with Paul Ong’s Concert for a Cause for just $75. Scan the QR code on the ad on the cover of this paper or call the WSO Box Office for tickets.
On Saturday, October 12, audiences will enjoy 70 Years of POPS, a captivating blend of light classical music, film scores, pop hits, and Broadway tunes played by the WSO over the past seven decades. This nostalgic afternoon includes works by Strauss, Hamlisch, John Williams, and so much more.
Conducted by RBC Assistant
Conductor Monica Chen, this concert features the JUNOnominated Indigenous vocal group Burnstick and pianist Ari Hooker son of long-time WSO Principal Cellist Yuri Hooker, playing George Gershwin’s timeless Rhapsody in Blue, celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Monica Chen picks up the baton again for A Prairie Christmas Celebration on Sunday, December 8. This heartwarming mix of holiday classics, from choral masterpieces to folk fiddling and jazzy Nutcracker tunes, offers something sweet for everyone.
This festive occasion also
features Filipino vocal ensemble Musica Singers, the cheerful Winnipeg Sonora Voices led by artistic director Valdine Anderson, and the energetic Ensemble Folklorique de la Rivière-Rouge
The afternoon also includes the
JUNO-nominated duo Erin Propp & Larry Roy With the promise of spring, on Sunday, March 23 the WSO presents How to Grow an Orchestra with guest conductor Armand Singh Birk and
comedian Lara Rae! This isn’t your typical symphony concert.
Lara guides the audience through hilarious orchestral evolution, from the primitive conch shell to the grand orchestras of today. Patrons experience the growth of the
orchestra as more musicians join the stage, while enjoying Lara’s witty and insightful commentary. Tickets for all WSO concerts are available at wso.ca or by calling the Box Office at 204-9493999.
National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
The Pilipino Express joins the nation in honouring the children who never returned home, the Survivors of residential schools, and their families and communities. We believe that remembering this tragic history and its ongoing impacts is essential to the reconciliation process.
Musica Singers. Photo by Rollan Temporosa Photography
Monica Chen Armand Singh Birk Burnstick. Photo credit Gabrielle Touchette
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ
Iya Villania-Arellano renews ties with GMA Network
Versatile actress and highly talented host Iya Villania-Arellano has renewed her contract with GMA Network.
Present during the contract signing were GMA Senior Vice President Oliver Victor B. Amoroso and Iya’s talent manager Boy Abunda A Kapuso for a decade and counting, Iya has consistently shown professionalism and proficiency in the projects being given to her. She continues to deliver the latest entertainment news to viewers via Chika Minute of GMA Integrated News’ flagship newscast 24 Oras Iya expressed that she is grateful
for the countless opportunities given to her by GMA, “I really want to thank GMA for the honour because it really is a blessing to be able to do not just what I love to do, but to be able to do it while being a mother, while being pregnant. Not everyone is given the same opportunity, and I know that it’s just how God has been working in my life.”
“I really hope and pray that I can continue to bring joy and inspiration to the people around me and be a blessing even in simple ways. The honour is mine that I am still a Kapuso,” she added.
Amoroso highlighted that Iya is a true asset of the Network,
In an exciting blend of teen drama and musical elements, GMA Public Affairs proudly presents MAKA, its latest youth-oriented series that crosses generational boundaries and resonates with audiences of all ages.
MAKA features a talented ensemble of Gen Z actors, including Sparkle stars Zephanie, Ashley Sarmiento, and Marco Masa, along with Sparkle teen talents Olive May, John Clifford, Dylan Menor, Chanty Videla from the K-Pop group Lapillus, Sean Lucas, and May Ann Basa, also known as Bangus Girl
The series explores the relatable challenges Gen Z faces today, while also highlighting their interactions with other generations – millennials, Gen X, and boomers. It features the world of high school students enrolled in the Arts & Performance (A&P) section of the public school Douglas MacArthur High School for the Arts under Sir V, played by seasoned actor Romnick Sarmenta
An accomplished but infamous artist, Sir V returns to his hometown
especially to GMA Integrated News, “I am immensely proud to have Iya in our stable of segment hosts in 24 Oras. Congratulations on your contract renewal, Iya!” Abunda, meanwhile, expressed how proud he is of Iya, “I’m proud
of you. I wish you the best. Just keep going, keep moving. Just keep searching and keep getting better – not just as a newscaster, but as a woman, as a mother. You just make me proud.” In her 10 years with GMA, Iya
took on remarkable roles in some of the well-loved Kapuso series. She also has extensive experience in hosting various programs, including Taste Buddies, Lip Sync Battle Philippines People vs. The Stars and Mars Pa More, to name a few.
and reluctantly accepts a teaching position at a local public school – the Douglas MacArthur High School for the Arts or MAKA. Through his unexpected role as a mentor, he discovers that both he and his students have much to learn from each other.
Joining Romnick are fellow That’s Entertainment alumni Tina Paner, Jojo Alejar, Sharmaine Arnaiz, and Maricar De Mesa, with veteran actress Carmen Soriano completing the all-star cast. It is directed by best-selling author Rod Marmol Romnick, working with the young Sparkle stars for the first time, is eager to build connections with his co-stars. “I enjoy getting to know more people, especially from that age group, kasi kaedad nila ‘yung mga anak ko. It gives me an insight into how I can better understand my own children,” Romnick shared in an interview with GMANetwork.com.
Global Pinoys can watch MAKA via the international channel GMA Pinoy TV.
Iya Villania-Arellano
Iya Villania-Arellano with Ms. Gigi Santiago-Lara, Mr. Oliver Victor B. Amoroso, and Mr. Boy Abunda
Barbie Forteza and David Licauco named Save the Children Philippines Ambassadors
In celebration of the International Day of Peace (September 21), GMA Network’s popular love team Barbie Forteza and David Licauco were designated the official ambassadors of Save the Children Philippines. Forteza and Licauco will be at the forefront of Save the Children’s mission to amplify the voices of children and inspire people to protect and fulfill the rights of every child. They will be joining the ranks of other Save the Children Ambassadors such as Jennifer Garner and Enrique Iglesias
Known for their undeniable chemistry and genuine compassion, Forteza and Licauco embody the spirit of youth and optimism that Save the Children Philippines hopes to spread among Filipino children, especially those most impacted by inequality and
discrimination.
Save the Children, the world’s leading independent organization, was founded in the aftermath of World War I in 1919 by Eglantyne Jebb, the woman who drafted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child in 1924 which was eventually adopted as the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child.
GMA Network’s Senior VP Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes, noted how Forteza and Licauco’s engagement with Save the Children coincides with their role as Adelina and Hiroshi, respectively, in the hit teleserye Pulang Araw and said:
“This is where the role of our newest ambassadors comes in. In Pulang Araw, Barbie Forteza and David Licauco portray Adelina and Hiroshi, characters caught in the crossfire of war. The show also demonstrates the psychological
and emotional battlefields that war imposes on children. Pulang Araw, uses the evocative colour red echoing the iconic hue of Save the Children, symbolizing our auspicious synergy. Let today and the days to come be a Pulang Araw, a day of fiery red love and bravery for the children.”
During the partnership signing of GMA Network Inc., with Save the Children Philippines, Forteza and Licauco expressed their gratitude for being chosen as Save the Children Ambassadors and shared their initial plans on how they can use their platform to support children’s causes:
“I am very honoured and grateful dahil napili po ako together with David na maging ambassador ng Save the Children. Gagamitin ko po ang aking profession as an actress at ang aking platform to influence our children to know their rights kahit at an early age. At siempre, pagbutihin ang kanilang pag-aaral nang sa gayon ay sila ay maging mabubuting leaders in the future,” said Forteza.
“First of all, I want to say thank you to Save the Children Philippines for choosing me, alongside with my loveteam Barbie Forteza. Thank you rin sa GMA dahil sa pagkuha nila sa akin and now, ambassador na ako ng Save the Children Philippines. I think it’s time for us to use our platforms to good use. Our goal
is to set a good example for the youth, to inspire, and empower the children to keep chasing their dreams,” Licauco said. Save the Children Philippines CEO Atty. Alberto Muyot and Chairperson Alicia Dela RosaBala welcomed Forteza and Licauco with open arms to the
Save the Children Family. With Forteza and Licauco journeying with Save the Children Philippines as ambassadors, the leading child rights organization is confident that together, they will reach a wider audience and create a greater impact on the lives of Filipino children.
David Licauco and Barbie Forteza
Save the Children Philippines executives with their Ambassadors David Licauco and Barbie Forteza
CUEVAS...
From page 1
learned the ropes of running a bakery business.
“I was paid Php15 a month. I really liked making different kinds of bread. My favourite of course, is pandesal,” Ver said.
Ten years later, Ver opened his own bakery with his sister Maria Cuevas. They named it “Good Life’s Bakery” because life was good, he said. So good in fact that he branched out to more locations from Bulacan to Olongapo City to Baguio City.
And always, he would include his family members and relatives in every new venture and then leave the business to them once they become profitable.
“I trust my family with the business, and I want to share my blessings as well.”
In the 80s Ver also tried his hand at making ovens and has made over 500 of them.
Fast forward to 1992 when Ver and his wife Cora immigrated to Canada. They opened the “Pilipino Bakery” at 664 Sheppard Avenue W in Toronto.
Then in 2000 they moved to Winnipeg where a year later they opened Discovery Bakery at 506 Notre Dame Avenue.
In need of a bigger space to serve their growing clientele, the Cuevas couple bought a building
along McPhillips Street and opened VC Cuevas Bakery in 2016 where it has successfully been serving loyal and new customers to this day.
“I know there’s a lot of competition in the bakery business, but each of us have our own unique taste. Customers often tell us that they really like the taste and quality of our products, and that really make us happy.”
Now that both Ver and Cora have retired, they have transferred the management and daily operations of VC Cuevas Bakery to their daughter Beverly and her husband, Michael Reves.
But the pandesal master is not yet done sharing his legacy. Plans are underway to open a bakery in Edmonton for his nephew and grandchildren there.
VC Cuevas Bakery at 989 McPhillips Street is known for serving freshly baked products such as pandesal, ensaymada, bicho-bicho, pan de coco, pan de ube, monay, as well as empanada, puto, turon, biko, and so much more.
The Filipino bakery is open every day, from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Hot pandesal is also available at 5:00 a.m. and 1:00pm.
You can contact them at 204774-5678.
They are also on Facebook at vccuevasbakery by Lucille Nolasco-Garrido
EH KASI, PINOY!
Like a seed sown in Canada, Asuncion “Sonny” Arrojado grew and engaged in the struggle as a nurse and became the founding chair of the 17,000-strong National Federation of Nurses Union, now known as the Canadian Nurses Union on May 1, 1981 (Silangan May 1981, Vol. 5, No. 5). In 1977, she was elected president of the Manitoba Organization of Nurses Association (MONA) Worksite 5 and from 1979 to 1981, she was MONA union president. This made Sonny Arrojado the earliest Filipino union leader in Winnipeg, Manitoba, and the pioneer Filipino woman labour leader in Canada.
As I was researching Winnipeg’s Filipino union leaders, key unionists like Bob Luna and pioneer activist and journalist Ted Alcuitas suggested Sonny Arrojado, as they fondly refer to her. After searching online and a visit to the Manitoba Archives Library, I learned that Sonny was born in Roxas City, Capiz, Philippines in 1946, and like most people who finished high school in the province, Sonny moved to Manila for her University education in the 1960s. Apparently, the ‘60s was the period when the student movement in the Philippines became revolutionary as portrayed in books such as the Days of Disquiet, Nights of Rage by Jose “Pete” Lacaba and the Philippine
Society and Revolution by Amado Guerrero. I cited these books because they represent movements that shaped the development of Philippine society based on the critique of the existing social order.
Blooming where she was According to the Canadian Encyclopedia article by Ysh Cabana, Sonny studied at the University of Santo Tomas, Faculty of Nursing. During that time, Sonny was involved in the protest movement against the Marcos regime. This stage in her life sheds light on her union involvement in Winnipeg when she arrived in 1968 and helped her bloom where she was as a trade union organizer and founder between 1968 and 1971 and started working in the Flin Flon, Manitoba General Hospital. In 1975 she worked at St. Boniface Hospital where she began organizing co-nurses in collective bargaining, which included calls for increased pay and better working conditions (Ysh Cabana, Canadian Encyclopedia).
Shift to bureaucracy
By 1982, Sonny bid adieu to the Canadian Nurses Union with her sudden shift to the bureaucracy and joined the Workers Compensation Board (WCB), a Manitoba government agency. She was the first woman and Filipino to head the board (Ted Alcuitas, “Can history be repeated?” Philippine
KROSWORD NO. 450
Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot
Asuncion “Sonny” Arrojado: Woman union trailblazer (1968-1975)
Canadian News). Indeed, it was extraordinary for Sonny to rise from the ranks of the health care system of Canada in the early years of the Filipino community’s presence in Winnipeg when we were just one thousand. Based on the 2021 census, the number of Filipinos in Manitoba was almost 97,000, and in Winnipeg, it was more than 77,000.
After her initial stint in the bureaucracy, Sonny became part of the professional body of the Canadian Nurses Association sometime in 1986. In 1987, she was hired as a Senior Policy Adviser for the Manitoba Health Department under Premier Howard Pawley’s New Democratic Party (NDP). Unfortunately, this lasted only for a short time because Gary Filmon’s Progressive Conservatives formed the government the following year.
Seeds of activism
Looking back, it is interesting to note the involvement of Sonny with the student movement in the 60s in the Philippines against the Marcos dictatorship, which was greatly influenced by the Kabataang Makabayan (Patriotic Youth). One can imagine how her experience as an activist shaped her consciousness in terms of ideology, politics, and sense of organization. Earlier, I mentioned that she got involved in organizing the Manitoba Organization of Nurses Association, the founding of the
Asuncion “Sonny” Arrojado
Canadian Nurses Association, and issues pertaining to health care with its social democratic nuances.
To be able to organize and handle the above involvements was extraordinary for a newly arrived migrant in the late 60s and Sonny’s activism through the years affirms her character. Hence, Asuncion “Sonny” Arrojado is definitely the prime example not only of leading, but serving the people by bringing into focus their struggles in the diaspora.
Levy Abad authored a book titled Rhythms and Resistance: Narrative of Filipino Musicians and Activists (1972-1994). Levy is also a singer-songwriter, poet, and migrant rights activist who has released four albums centred on the life and struggles of migrants.
by Paul Ong
Meadows West students honoured
A group of dedicated students from Meadows West School was celebrated on September 23, 2024, at the Annual Harvest Manitoba Volunteer Awards, where they received the Young Achievers Award recognizing their outstanding contributions to the community through their work at Harvest Manitoba. The Young Achievers Award is presented to youth who demonstrate leadership and compassion in their volunteer efforts.
It started with a conversation, a question, “What can we do to make the world a better place?”
This was one of the questions that Ms. Jack and her students reflected on in class. Being a Roots and Shoots school, these wonderings are something that our students are encouraged to reflect and act on. It was from these conversations that sparked the initiative for Ms. Jack’s class to support Harvest Manitoba.
In the Spring of 2024, Ms. Jack’s Grade 4 and 5 class embarked on a student-initiated project integrating cross-curricular outcomes.
“I felt very proud of myself for sharing my ideas and starting this project with our class,” said 10-year-old Ravneet, one of the award recipients. The project included a bake and craft sale, and proceeds were donated to Harvest Manitoba, a food bank that provides essential resources to families in need throughout the province. They collected $588.00 in donations and learned about the services and community impact of Harvest Manitoba when they went as a class to volunteer.
Sienna, a 10-year-old student from Meadows West School said, “the award is not just for us, it shows that our entire classroom, school
and the school community worked together to achieve something for a community cause.”
Throughout the past year, Meadows West students engaged in a variety of tasks for the benefit of Harvest Manitoba. From participating as performers in CBC Manitoba’s Make the Season Kind in December 2023, to initiating the bake and craft sale to raise funds for Harvest Manitoba, and later, volunteering with sorting food donations and packing food items in June 2024. Their efforts not only supported the food bank’s operations but also raised awareness about hunger in the community.
“Seeing kids take initiative and understand the importance of helping others is truly inspiring. These young people have shown that no effort is too small and that every act of kindness counts. They are setting an example for their generation and reminding us of the power of community service,” sais Ms. Jack.
“It is important for the community to keep supporting Harvest Manitoba so that kids and families don’t go hungry,” says 10-year-old Regan. When asked about how they would like to encourage others to do the same, Sehajpal said that he encourages “everyone to give back, so that people can access what they need. People can help in their own little ways.”
The Young Achievers Awards not only recognize the accomplishments of these inspiring kids but also encourage others to engage in their communities. With their enthusiasm and passion for helping others, these young volunteers are poised to make a lasting impact on Winnipeg and beyond.
Meadows West students
(L-r) Ms. Jack, Meadows West students and Ms. Landick
Meadows West students with Harvest Manitoba staff
