Pilipino Express • Apr 16 2017

Volume 13 • No. 8 • April 16 - 30, 2017 Publication Mailing Account #41721512

Kim Domingo

Sister to Sister Building bridges

14 12 Piolo Pascual & Yen Santos

First meeting of the Pinays MB and the Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute to plan the “Sister to Sister” project. L-r: Irene Medina, Erum Tanvir, Rita Ramchandar, Zulaika Rahim, Yasmin Ali, Perla Javate, Najma Siddiqui, Aireen Miaral, Araceli Ancheta and Roselyn Advincula. Photo by Alex Canlapan WINNIPEG – On Saturday, April 8, 2017, a group of women from two different cultures met for the first time to plan an event that could create a lasting relationship between two communities that hardly know each other.

Members of Pinays MB Inc. and the Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute (CMWI) have laid the groundwork for the Sister to Sister special project. It is an event to be held in the fall that aims to provide an opportunity for women from the Filipino and Muslim communities to interact with each other. The goal is to create lasting relationships and cross-cultural understanding, to promote dialogue between the Filipino and the Muslim

communities, and to act as a bridge between the two communities for generations to come.

“This is a great beginning of sisterhood – the sharing of information and ideas; of halal food and lots of fun and laughter!

It makes us more aware of our Muslim sisters in the Philippines!” said Perla Javate of Pinays MB during the meet-and-greet brunch.

The two cultural groups acknowledged that they have little knowledge of each other in spite of living in close proximity to each other and accessing many of the same resources in Manitoba.

By bringing the two communities together, the expectation is to show that while there are certain See SISTER p8

Vote for Florfina (Flor) Marcelino – RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants Award See story on p4

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

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APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Mindanao has long been a victim of biased media In the news recently was how President Rodrigo Duterte badmouthed two media giants in the country – the Philippine Daily Inquirer and ABS-CBN – over their alleged unfair reporting, cursing at them publicly in trademark Digong fashion. The media industry – make that the Manila media industry – was understandably upset, saying Duterte’s statements were an attack on freedom of the press. But as Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella pointed out, Duterte’s remarks were “a complaint against unfairness and not attacks against Philippine journalism.”

“The President himself agreed with the adversarial (antagonistic using PRRD’s word) role of media as check and balance against government abuses and venalities.

However, it is unfortunate that these two media outfits tend to project the president as a caricature of a berserk strongman over a failed state. The president’s statement is a call for media to be more fair and unbiased; after all, nations succeed when all sectors maintain objectivity and fairness as they collaborate in nation building,” Abella said.

You don’t even have to look

at how they’re treating Duterte to conclude that the so-called “national media” – not just the Inquirer and ABS-CBN – are biased. We in Mindanao have long had to contend with the ignorant and offensive labels the Manilabased media have used to describe our island: “war-torn,” “conflictridden,” and “lawless” are just a few words thrown around. This is not to mention the liberal use of religious affiliation or ethnicity when referring to undesirable elements: Muslim killer, Maranao robber, Tausug kidnappers. This sets up the readers and viewers, most of who have no idea what the real situation is in Mindanao, to conclude that the island is unsafe, and that the danger comes only from certain sectors of the multicultural society living here.

The way the Manila-based media outlets present Mindanao, you would think that all hell has broken loose here. One example: back in late 2011, when the killing of Fr. Faustion “Pops” Tenorio and the deaths of 19 soldiers at the hands of the Moro Islamic Liberation Front (MILF) were fresh in the minds of people, Mindanao was consistently on the

front pages of newspapers, with virtually all the stories casting the island in a negative light. This in spite of the fact that the two incidents happened in two specific places in Mindanao – Arakan Valley, North Cotabato in the case of Fr. Tentorio, and Basilan in the case of the soldiers – that did not in any way represent the situation in the entire island.

This anti-Mindanao reporting makes as much sense as saying that all of Metro Manila is a den of thieves just because someone got robbed in Caloocan City. It is unfair to brand an entire region in a particular way just because something happened in a tiny corner of it.

This has been a longstanding problem with Manila media outlets, and there is no assurance they will ever change. It is partly due to laziness: it is simply easier to lump all the areas of conflict and violence and label them “Mindanao” than to take the effort to identify exactly where these incidents are happening. But a bigger part may be said to be monetary: it is easier to sell newspapers and draw TV and radio audiences in when the stories are about war, not peace.

War sells, and war in Mindanao can be a treasure trove if one tells the story in a way that highlights conflict.

Whatever the reason, Manila media have a lot of rewriting to do if they are to be true to their vow of presenting only the truth to their readers, viewers, and listeners. It is their responsibility to get their stories right, not just in terms of the facts of specific incidents, but of the overall picture in Mindanao. A careless adjective can paint a very negative picture, forever scaring off prospective visitors and investors.

Mindanaoans thus understand perfectly where Duterte was coming from when he lambasted the Inquirer and ABS-CBN for their unfair reporting. We have long been victims of this kind of journalism; long before Manila media trained their guns on the president.

The views and opinions expressed in this column are those of the original author, and do not necessarily represent those of the Pilipino Express publishers.

Jon Joaquin is the Chief Editor of www.mindanation.com.

E-mail Jon at jonjoaquin@gmail. com

It’s time to vote!

Vote for Florfina (Flor) Marcelino – RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants Award Winnipeg’s Florfina (Flor) Marcelino is one of the Top 75 finalists for the 9th annual RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrant Awards. From this list, the Top 25 Canadian Immigrants will be determined by the number of votes garnered through online voting and by a panel of judges.

These awards are also known as a People’s Choice Award – so voting is an important part of the process to narrow down the shortlist to the final top 25.

Florfina Marcelino has always been one of the most esteemed leaders in the Filipino-Canadian community. She is admired for her compassion, humility, and unconditional commitment to help others.

She is currently the MLA for Logan Constituency and the first woman of colour ever to be elected as a Member of the Legislative Assembly in Manitoba.

The following is Marcelino’s biography that appears on the Canadian Immigrant Awards voting portal: “Born in the Philippines, Florfina Marcelino and her family moved to Winnipeg in 1982, and have called Manitoba home ever

since. In 2007, she became the first woman of colour ever elected to the Manitoba Legislative Assembly, and, in 2009, the first person of ethnic background to be given a cabinet position in the history of the Manitoba Legislature.

She was given the portfolios of culture, heritage and tourism, and later multiculturalism and literacy, overseeing the NDP government’s increasing investments in adult learning and literacy, and liaised with the many multicultural organizations across Manitoba.

She was re-elected MLA for Logan in 2011 and 2016. She also became the NDP Party’s interim leader in 2016, after the former leader and premier Greg Selinger resigned. She is now Interim Leader of Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition.

While some were surprised that she was chosen as interim leader, she was cited as someone who everyone could work with. She also has deep roots in Manitoba’s large Filipino community.

Prior to her political career, Florfina Marcelino was a small

Florfina (Flor) Marcelino business owner, editor of The Philippine Times, and worked as a support staff member at Red River College for 17 years.

Florfina Marcelino has faced many challenges, including a brain tumour in 2002 that affected her speech. Marcelino hasn’t let this obstacle slow her down overall. She is the mother of five adult children and grandmother to four boys.

She is also an active community leader and has served on the Premier’s Economic Advisory Council, and been involved

with Project Peacemakers, St. Stephen’s-Broadway Foundation, the Broadway Disciples United Church and its international affiliate, the Global Ministries Board and the Tagig Association of Manitoba.”

The RBC Top 25 Canadian Immigrants Award is presented by the Canadian Immigrant Magazine and supported by RBC Royal Bank in celebration of immigrants who have made significant contributions to Canada.

Two Manitobans from the Filipino community have been given this award in the past, namely, Perla Javate (2016) and the Hon. Dr. Rey Pagtakhan (2012).

Winners for the Top 25 Canadian Immigrants will be announced in June 2017. Each will receive a plaque and $500 toward a charity of their choice.

Encourage your friends, family and colleagues to vote for Florfina Marcelino.

You still have time to vote.

Deadline for online voting is May 22, 2017.

Vote online at www. canadianimmigrant.ca/rbctop25

1045 Erin Street, Winnipeg, MB Canada R3G 2X1 Phone: 204-956-7845 E-mail: info@pilipino-express.com www.pilipino-express.com Publisher

THE PILIPINO EXPRESS INC. Editor-in-Chief

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REY-AR REYES JP SUMBILLO

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ALEX CANLAPAN Photographer

Columnists/Contributors DALE BURGOS JB CASARES ANNE CAPRICE B. CLAROS YVANNE DANDAN ETHEL CLEMENTE FERNANDEZ BRO. GERRY GAMUROT NORMAN ACERON GARCIA MICHELE MAJUL-IBARRA PERLA JAVATE JUDIANNE JAYME PASTOR JUNIE JOSUE NOEL LAPUZ JON MALEK ALONA MERCADO LUCILLE NOLASCO CST. REY OLAZO PAQUITO REY PACHECO DR. REY PAGTAKHAN CHERYL DIZON REYNANTE MICHAEL SCOTT RON URBANO KATHRYN WEBER Youth Contributors Aksyon Ng Ating Kabataan (ANAK) Philippine Correspondents CRISTY FERMIN JON JOAQUIN AMBETH R. OCAMPO

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APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

What about virginity?

Dear Ate Anna: A friend and I were talking about the cultural expectations we grew up with as teenagers. Girls were expected to be virgins when they got married but it always seemed that the boys had more freedom in this area. You know, “boys will be boys.” Why isn’t virginity an issue for men?

Lucy Dear Lucy There are many beliefs about virginity and, unfortunately, most of them are rooted in myth. It’s important to say that some myths exist because people didn’t have the scientific information we have today. So why do we still hang on to these ideas even though we have witnessed the social, legal and financial importance of virginity change over time, especially in Western cultures? Although women in many parts of the world are supposed to be enjoying a new “sexual freedom,” they are still judged differently than men for their sexual relationships.

First, we need to clarify what we mean by virginity. To most people a virgin is someone who has not had sex, which is usually defined exclusively as penis in vagina penetration. Does this mean that a person is still a virgin if they have only had oral sex or anal sex? How do lesbians define virginity for themselves?

The beliefs around virginity are historical – from a time when a woman was her husband’s

property. If an unmarried girl had sexual intercourse she became less valuable to her society and less marriageable, which could have dire consequences for her life in general. In many cultures virginity was “tested” on the wedding night by a show of blood with first intercourse. Unfortunately, not all females have bleeding the first time they have intercourse. Ate Anna has heard many unfortunate stories about young women who were shunned by family and community because they did not bleed on the wedding night; despite the fact that they insisted they were virgins.

The bleeding supposedly happens because the hymen (or vaginal corona) is torn. The hymen is like a thin membrane or piece of skin that may exist around the opening to the vagina when a female baby is born. It doesn’t completely cover the opening to the vagina and there are small holes in it. This is because women have vaginal fluids and menstrual blood that has to have a way to leave the body. In some women the hymen is so small or thin that there is no bleeding when it is stretched or torn with first intercourse, inserting a tampon, or other activities like exercise, riding a bicycle, or sexual self pleasuring.

There is no test that can determine whether or not someone is a virgin. A female’s body does not go through any major physical See ATE ANNA p7

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APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Changes in MPNP skilled worker selection The much-anticipated announcement from the Manitoba government on changes to MPNP has finally been made – at least in a press release. First there was the minor change in employer registration for MPNP certificate holders effective April 1, 2017.

Effective that date, employers of PNs no longer have to register under the Worker Recruitment and Protection Act (WRAPA).

Now for the changes in MPNP for skilled workers…

Training and Education Minister Ian Wishart announced on April 6, 2017 the directions his government is taking the MPNP. “We are pleased to implement higher service standards for applicants to restore the integrity of this important pathway to permanent residence in Manitoba,” said Wishart. “As of this month, all

candidates who submit complete applications to the program will be processed in six months or less.”

The department has been attending to the old backlog. In 2016 there were over 5,100 applications in the backlog, some dating from 2013. MPNP assessment staff have been working to reduce this backlog and at this time only 70 files remain in process. This commitment to a faster turnaround time and dedication to the task is something we can all applaud.

The Minister’s announcement included specifics about the direction of the selection process.

He spoke of Manitoba’s effort to attract international students and the new pathways the department was pursuing supported by partnerships with post-secondary institutions. The government’s intention is to encourage

international students to choose educational programs leading to jobs that are in demand in the province.

Wishart pointed out that over 11,000 international students from 125 different countries study in Manitoba annually. There is little wrong with the MPNP looking to attract international foreign students to pursue careers and settle in Manitoba. This is a goal shared by all provinces.

The Minister spoke about new online resources, including an in-demand jobs list, which can be updated regularly as market needs change. The list will help MPNP staff prioritize applications, especially those suited for Expression of Interest.

The actual list will be published once approval is obtained from IRCC, in accordance with the Canada Manitoba Immigration Agreement.

“Better information sharing and openness will improve service for applicants and ensure the respectability of this program moving forward,” said Wishart.

“Our new online resource will include priority areas such as increased francophone and regional immigration.”

The Minister predicts 170,000 job openings by 2022, with over 25 per cent of projected job vacancies filled by immigrants.

The Minister allayed some of the fears in the local community by assuring all that the MPNP will continue to allocated points to applicants with close family ties in Manitoba if they possess employable skills. He also assured program users that the presence of relatives in other Canadian provinces would no longer be considered a risk factor and a reason to subtract points. The big news is that MPNP will serve as

an effective way to recruit needed skilled workers from abroad. We now have to wait to see how the announcement of changes will impact on the selection process of interested parties from the Expression of Interest database to the issuance of invitation to apply letters. The eyes of all interested parties, especially the MLA critics, Flor Marcelino and Cindy Lamoureux, will remind us all if the Minister’s good intentions are not met.

Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, R525678) who has 30 years of experience with Canada Immigration and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program. He currently works as a licensed consultant with R.B. Global Immigration Consultants Ltd. 204-691-1166 or 204-2270292. E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail. com.

Seniors and debt

by Tim St. Vincent You are a Senior, or you are about to be. You are getting ready to head down the golden path of retirement; nothing ahead of you but relaxation, grandkids, and maybe a new hobby or two. Oh, and debt. Yes, debt.

I know. You don’t really think about debt and retirement as going together, but they do. Maybe that’s the problem; because we don’t think of them as going together, we forget about the debt part of retirement.

Then when you retire, there it is. Debt. Like a great big puppy dog it shows up on your doorstep wagging its tail, and you think “How did that get there? I don’t know what to do!”

Debt and retirement shouldn’t come as a surprise. Most of us were never taught how to handle credit properly. To some extent we all know that the second we use credit, it becomes debt; but we don’t really fully understand. Because we don’t fully understand credit when we

first start using it, by the time we retire, we have a lifetime of mistakes that follow us into retirement and this challenge only increases as we age.

Equifax, one of Canada’s two major credit bureaus, recently put out a report on consumer debt.

According to the report we have over $1.71 trillion of debt and the post retirement to pre-retirement group is at the greatest risk.

The 65-plus age group has the largest year-over-year percentage increase in debt; the 56 to 65 age group (early retirees) come in with the second largest balance of debt owing while the 46-55 age group (on the brink of retirement) carry the largest debt balance at $32,654. This information matches with the information that the Credit Counselling Society tracks; the 55-plus age group is the fastest growing group seeking our help and the average debt carried by our clients is $30,752.

Debt and Retirement, hand in hand. Who knew?

So why is this happening?

There are many thoughts on that.

Credit really started its rise in the mid to late 60s. We weren’t ever really educated on it; it was just there. As we grew older we came to rely on it and use it more and more – still without thoroughly understanding it. When it came time for us to retire, like a little puppy dog, it came trailing after, happy to follow us into the golden years.

There can be many reasons why debt is such an issue among the 55-plus age group. When the stock market corrected back in 2008/09 many people cashed out their investments, locking in their losses. Now, almost 10 years later, people are depending on those funds to retire but they are no longer there. Then there are the boomerang kids. They are returning not only to their parents, but to their grandparents too!

Some studies have shown that many retirees delayed retirement by five years or more in order to get their finances in better shape; the same study shows that 25 per cent of parents are supporting their adult children to the extent of $500 or more a month. One third (33 per cent) of Canadians work past the age of 66 because they need to. Almost 50 per cent of retirees worry about their debt.

Debt can easily change from

that cute puppy dog that you took in because it brought joy to the dog that you can never quite house train, the one that leaves a mess all over the place. So then, how can we house train and clean up after this puppy called debt?

As is often the case, we have to go back to basics. You need a solid budget and you need to track your expenses to see how closely they match your budget.

Plan on needing about 70 per cent of your pre-retirement income to meet your retirement expenses.

Pay off your debt, and don’t bring any more puppies (debt) into the house, no matter how cute they may look! If you can, retire your debt one year before you retire your work! If you haven’t retired yet, do a pre-retirement and a post-retirement budget to understand how much you will really need.

We also need to educate our youth. Credit is all around

them. Without anyone to teach them how to use it properly, they will have their own puppy dogs of debt following them into retirement.

If you are struggling, take some comfort in the knowledge that you are not alone. In many ways our seniors are among the most vulnerable when it comes to dealing with debt. If you need help, ask for it. You aren’t alone.

If you have questions or suggestions for future articles, please contact me at 1-888-5278999.

Tim St. Vincent is a retired CFP and is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance with the Credit Counselling Society, a Non-Profit organization. If you wish to contact the Society for further information, assistance or to attend a webinar, please call 1-888-527-8999 or visit www.nomoredebts.org or www. mymoneycoach.ca

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

Tax scam warning Winnipeg Police have been receiving reports of attempted phone-based tax scams. The fraudsters will contact the victim pretending to be the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) or, in some cases, a police officer. The swindlers will try to obtain your personal information and then they will tell you that you have outstanding taxes. They are often very aggressive; even going as far as saying that they have sent the police to the victim’s home to arrest them or a family member if they do not pay the “taxes” immediately.

Winnipeg Police are aware that in at least one case the fraudsters faked or “spoofed” the victim’s home land line phone number when they called his cell phone.

This caused the victim to fear that government agents were actually in his home to collect taxes.

The fraudsters also seem to target new Canadians because they are often not as familiar with the Canadian tax or justice system.

The fraudster will direct the victim to pay their outstanding taxes by going to a store and purchasing a prepaid credit or gift card or by going to a money transfer business.

Once the fraudster has the details from the prepaid card or once the money transfer has been sent – often out of Canada – the money is lost and cannot be recovered.

Tips to remember • The Canada Revenue Agency already has your identity information, so they will not call

you on the phone to ask for it.

• The CRA will never ask you to purchase gift cards or to go to a money transfer business.

• If you do receive a suspicious phone call, contact the CRA yourself to confirm the details.

Find the CRA phone number for yourself online or in a phone directory. Do not use any contact information provided by the suspicious caller.

• Protect yourself: never agree to requests for payment without researching the validity of the caller.

To learn more about tax scams or other types of fraud, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre: http://www.antifraudcentrecentreantifraude.ca

and not boys’. In fact, there is a myth that all boys want to lose their virginity to the first willing person. This reinforces the belief that virgin teen boys deserve the shaming and teasing they often experience. Popular culture reinforces the belief that boys who have not had sex by a certain age are socially inept.

It’s time to break the taboos about virginity for both males and females. We need to talk about the physiological facts, the emotional issues, and the sociocultural factors that influence our thinking about virginity and what

it means. We need to have these conversations with friends, family and, most important, with our teenage children. Lucy, you and your friend are already on the way.

Take care, Ate Anna Ate Anna welcomes your questions and comments. Please write to: Ate Anna, Suite 200226 Osborne St. N., Winnipeg, MB R3C 1V4 or e-mail: info@ serc.mb.ca. Please visit us at www.serc.mb.ca. You will find reliable information and links for many resources on the subject of sexuality.

ATE ANNA...

From page 5 transformation the first time she has sex. Neither does a male’s. No one can feel the difference either.

So the truth is that nobody can determine whether or not a person is a virgin – however one defines virginity. Each person has to trust what their partner tells them.

The issue you are asking about, Lucy, is the double standard that exists. While both sexes are taught about the importance of virginity, it is girls and women who bear the responsibility for it. While it has never been as important to establish whether or not someone with a penis is a virgin, we now need to recognize and talk about the myths related to the idea of female virginity.

The emotional side of the virginity issue is also important to consider. Many people are taught that they will undergo some psychological transformation the first time they have sex with someone else. While this may be true for some people, it is definitely not true for everyone. There are many factors to consider in the experience of first sex. Was there consent? Were alcohol or other drugs involved? Were condoms and birth control used? Did it feel good for everyone? Was someone anxious to “lose their virginity”?

The double standard that exists globally is the reason we are concerned with girls’ virginity

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APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Reflections on feng shui – Mirror do’s and don’ts In feng shui, mirrors can direct the flow of chi. Mirrors can also both push and pull energy. Few feng shui activators and cures hold as much interest as the common mirror. Mirrors are a terrific decorating resource and have the potential to inspire more prosperity — even double beautiful views and invite the accompanying chi that goes with them.

Yet, using mirrors in feng shui is often misunderstood. How does one use mirrors effectively?

Are there rules for using mirrors in feng shui? If you have had questions about using mirrors correctly, the following should help you understand when, where and where not to use them.

Mirror do’s DO reflect beautiful views.

If your living room or dining room has a beautiful view of trees, blue skies, a garden or anything especially beautiful, a mirror is the perfect accessory.

By positioning opposite the view, you can double the beauty.

DO reflect dining and living areas. Dining rooms are the perfect location for mirrors.

Because the dining represents a family’s wealth, this in effect, magnifies this energy. Living rooms where families hold parties and gatherings are also good locations to hang a mirror and can double the number of people in the room for a more festive chi!

Do use mirrors to hide problems. Although not often thought of as a disguise, mirrors can make problems areas like

SISTER...

From page 1 differences, they have more things in common, especially those in the community who are first or second generation Canadians. It is the two groups’ desire to get a better understanding of each community and learn about each other as people.

Pinays MB and the CMWI will be the joint organizers of the event. Muslim women from the refugee and immigrant communities will be invited. The Muslim community in Manitoba is made up of a number of distinct cultural groups, so there will be representation from a diversity of cultures including the Syrian, Somali, Iraqi, Afghani, Pakistani, and Filipino communities.

Filipino women, from all walks of life, will also be encouraged to attend.

The lead organizers Pinays MB Inc. is a dynamic empowering group of Filipino women in Manitoba founded in 2016. It aims to be a valuable resource for women of all ages to become resilient, confident and strong. Pinays MB seeks to recognize women who have made

square pillars “disappear.” Many homes have pillars, such as in basements, or in offices that stand in the middle of the room. By mirroring all four sides, the pillar essentially disappears.

DO use mirrors to double your cash. Placing a mirror to reflect a cash register, your jewellery, or close to the front door of a shop will pull more money chi, customers and prosperity to you.

DO place mirrors where they can open up space. If you have a really small room or a long hallway, this is the perfect spot to hang a mirror. Lean a mirror against a wall to visually open up the room. Place a mirror along the wall of a hallway to slow down chi and add some interest.

Mirror dont’s DON’T place a mirror opposite a front door. This pushes the energy right back out the door. Time and time again I see businesses that go out of business and they have a mirror opposite the front door. If you want a mirror to open up your foyer, adding a mirror is a great idea.

Just don’t put it opposite the front door.

DON’T reflect negative views.

Make sure mirrors aren’t placed where they’ll reflect a toilet door, a fireplace (above a fireplace is fine), a stovetop, or messy areas.

When you can see an ugly view in a mirror, this magnifies the energy. This is especially true of fire. A little fire keeps you warm; a lot of fire can quickly become excessive energy.

DON’T place a mirror where outstanding contributions to the Philippine community and in the mainstream community. Its other goals include providing support to Filipino women through confidence building, leadership and communication training, and participation in organized activities, and to identify and address issues of Filipino women in Winnipeg, such as settlement for new immigrants, and parenting. The new organization also strives to write the history of Filipino women in Manitoba.

The executive membership is comprised of women from different organizations here in Manitoba.

The Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute Inc. (CMWI) is a non-profit organization that was founded in 2006. The CMWI is the first organization of its kind in Manitoba where Muslim women are both the leaders of, and participants in, their own organization. The goal of the Institute is to promote and empower refugee and newcomer women and their families socially, economically and spiritually.

An elected Board comprised of women of diverse cultures, ages and professions, runs the CMWI.

it will harm or send cutting energy. This is true of placing a mirror at the end of the hallway, which symbolically says, “stay away” and draws negative energy.

A mirror placed at the bottom of the stairs will cut off the feet or head; avoid placing here.

DON’T place a mirror in the bedroom where it can be over-stimulating. A mirror in the bedroom can create insomnia, especially if it reflects the bed.

If there is a problem in the marriage, a mirror can also bring in unwanted interference in the relationship. Better to be safe (and well-rested) than sorry.

DON’T use broken or pakua mirrors. Pakua mirrors are often hung with little regard, yet they send out the full force of chi toward that which they reflect. It amounts to sending a really nasty look toward your neighbour. Is it any wonder these cause problems with relationships with others?

These mirrors contain trigrams that are negative and are harmful to whoever they point toward and to the house where they hang.

Avoid them. Cracked mirrors are also very negative energy as are small mirror tiles or anything that distorts or breaks up an image.

Remove them.

FENG SHUI Q&A Question: I have a piano in my house, but I’m not sure where to put it. What element does it represent? Is it wood? Metal?

This is a baby grand so I want to get it in just the right place where it can help me.

Answer: This is a great question! A piano represents the water element, so you’ll want to place it in a location that’s favourable for water. In general,

Try not to put any mirrors in bedroom if possible

Dining rooms are the perfect location for mirrors those directions would be north, east and southeast. You could also place it in the southwest, which benefits by having water there.

Of course, with an instrument of this size, you may have to place it where it will fit!

Kathryn Weber is the publisher of the Red Lotus Letter Feng Shui E-zine and

certified feng shui consultant in authentic Chinese feng shui.

Kathryn helps her readers improve their lives and generate more wealth with feng shui. For more visit www.redlotusletter. com and learn the fast and fun way how feng shui can make your life more prosperous and abundant!

Ladies of the Pinays MB and Canadian Muslim Women’s Institute discuss “Sister to Sister” project

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 9

Cutting the cord It’s time to cut the cord. I’m feeling an unnecessary need to always be connected. Plus it costs way too much!

“Dale, what are you talking about?” you ask.

I could be referring to the willingness for Millennials (otherwise known as Generation Y) to stay home with Nanay and Tatay for a longer period of time. I can’t blame them, how does one afford real estate these days? I recently read an article that a renter of a 600 square foot apartment in downtown Toronto was facing a 150 per cent rent increase! And don’t get me started with the housing costs in BC. Thankfully, I don’t live in Vancouver, so I’m better off, but I can’t imagine paying over $1million for a tear down. I am speculating, but this could be one of the main reasons that kids are staying home longer. Added to the fact that Filipino parents love to feed their kids unlimited supplies of pansit and adobo. Why would you ever leave the nest? Am I right? I for one want them to spread their wings as quickly as possible.

Get out, Mommy and Daddy need their own space! I’m kidding of course – well kind of.

The focus of this month’s

article is our incessant need to always feel “connected.” In technological terms, I’m referring to “information.” In the hands of almost every human being is a device of some kind. Be it an iPhone, iPad, or Android (among many others). It now seems that the new “electronic babysitter” is being introduced as quickly as they come out of the womb.

I’ve read articles with opinions for and against the introduction of screens at such a young age. Some say that we are rotting their minds or that we are creating a sense of immediacy, which in turn causes a loss of focus. Others say that we need to show infants and toddlers how to use these devices or else they won’t be able to keep up once they start school. Whatever route you take, no judgement here.

Parents always make decisions with the well being of their child in mind.

I don’t see our hunger for information changing anytime soon. Heck, if I had Google when I was a kid, I wouldn’t have had to ask so many questions, or had to wait until the school library got the newest editions of the World Book Encyclopedia. In fact, I am constantly Googling something.

Thanks to the rise of technology, I’ve witnessed major shifts in the economy. No longer do we need to run to Blockbuster or Rogers Video and hope and pray they have a copy of the new release. As for music, we say goodbye to another regular face in every mall. HMV has shuttered its doors once and for all.

Now to the main reason for my article. The TV industry has taken a big hit in the past decade.

Now that I have a PVR, guess what I usually fast forward through?

Yes, you guessed it, commercials.

It wasn’t that long ago that the Burgos Bunch was watching live TV. Surprisingly, it took a couple commercial breaks before one of the kids asked me to fast forward through the ads. To their horror I said I couldn’t.

Skipping commercials affects advertising revenue, which, in turn, affects programming and staffing.

Thus, the many layoffs of TV, print and radio staffers. It’s sad to see; as that was the industry that kickstarted my career.

Cable TV was once a staple in every household. We would watch shows on the big networks: CBC, CTV, ABC, NBC, et cetera, et cetera. This is no longer the case.

We’ve all heard of Netflix, CraveTV, or Amazon Prime. The list grows daily for the billiondollar industry. The business plan makes sense. Why do we have to

wait until next Thursday to watch the next episode when I can watch the whole season on a weekend? If your favourite show can’t be found on these content providers, it can easily be found elsewhere. As for news, you can very easily find that online.

So why keep cable? Why spend an extra $50 to $100? I just don’t know. Perhaps I will finally cut the cord this year, with the money I save, I can go buy a DVD at HMV…oh wait…

I’ll leave you with a quote from

Rear Admiral Grace Hopper (if you don’t know who she is, Google her).

The most dangerous phrase in language is, “We’ve always done it this way.”

The world is changing and we must always adapt.

Do you have a suggestion on how to “cut the cord?” Send your suggestions to abitofburgos@ shaw.ca. Dale is the Director of Communications for a school district in BC.

PAGE 10

PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Getting high on vitamin Z She’s almost always the first one to arrive in our class. Myrna Yambao Gloria started attending Zumba classes in October 2016 and she has loved it since then.

Myrna said her main motivation was to lose weight.

“So far so good! says Myrna.

[Zumba] is good exercise; it really helps with my health, since my doctor told me I needed to lose weight. So now, after regularly attending Zumba, I don’t experience laboured breathing anymore, and I’m able to maintain my ideal weight.”

Fun-loving Arleene OlivaresGrute is not fond of the gym. So upon my invitation, she tried out our Zumba class and she too loved it.

“I like attending Zumba as I am having fun doing exercise with a group of friends,” Arleene said. “There are so many positive changes, especially when I’m stressed and need to clear out my mind. Also, since I am diabetic, I needed to exercise and sweat. And I noticed that it gave me more energy and strength. I’m happy I get all these from Zumba.”

Beto and the beginnings of Zumba Colombian trainer and choreographer Alberto “Beto” Perez is the genius behind the Zumba Fitness Program. Upon arriving to teach class one day in Cali, Colombia, Beto realized he had left his traditional aerobics music at home. He quickly improvised with his personal salsa and merengue tapes from his backpack, popped them into the sound system and taught his first Zumba class.

After a successful career in Colombia, Beto decided to move to the United States. He sold all his belongings and travelled to Miami in search of the American Dream. He didn’t speak a word of

English then. But because of his unceasing dedication he managed to overcome obstacles along the way.

Zumba Fitness, LLC as an accredited worldwide program In 2001, Alberto Perlman (CEO) and Alberto Aghion (Presidente and COO) teamed up with Beto and created a fitness phenomenon. They didn’t expect that the Zumba program would become a worldwide fitness sensation so quickly. By 2007, the Zumba program had 10,00 instructors, was available in over 30 countries, sold over three million DVDs, and had almost a million and a half people taking Zumba classes on a weekly basis.

Today, fueled by the love and passion of Zumba instructors and students alike, millions more are taking Zumba classes regularly around the world.

My very own vitamin Z It was April, 2016 when I started attending a Friday class of Zumba with a group of friends.

I wasn’t really overweight and I thought my health was pretty good. It was really for exercise since I was not quite physically active.

Imagine my delight when I thoroughly enjoyed myself grooving to the different Latin beats and some pop songs. I didn’t realize I was sweating and exerting effort, only that I was doing what I like, which is dancing.

After a few more classes, I was hooked on my new vitamin.

I felt more energetic and active.

I felt healthier and happier.

With every drop of sweat comes the knowledge that I am doing something good for myself.

Last September 2, I became a Zumba instructor; an official member of the Zumba Instructor Network (ZIN). My main goal is to share this fitness program

with my friends and family. (It’s a one-hour dance party, really.) So they too, can reach their health and fitness goals in a fun, easy, and nonintimidating way.

“I absolutely recommend Zumba to all my friends, especially our class, it’s so much fun, as we treat each other like family,” Arleene said.

“It’s really helping me a lot, and I really recommend everybody to try Zumba,” Myrna said.

For myself, my love for dancing has met a

ZIN Lucille Nolasco in her Hawaiian outfit

kindred spirit in Zumba, my very own vitamin Z. Note: To be active every day is a step towards better health and a healthy body weight. It is recommended that adults accumulate at least 2 1/2 hours of moderate to vigorous physical activity, each week and that children and youth accumulate at least 60 minutes per day. You don’t have to do it all at once. Choose a variety of activities, spread throughout the week. Start slowly and build up. – Health Canada Lucille Nolasco is an announcer and creative writer at CKJS Radio - Winnipeg. She hosts Afternoon Pasada, Monday through Friday, from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. She is an ardent believer that “health is wealth” and she is a certified Zumba instructor. Send her your comments at lucillern@gmail.com.

Leony Bodino and Maribel Nolasco enjoyed the Hawaiian Zumba Fundraiser by ZIN Rhiz Aco, February 18, 2017

Zumba Express Wpg group after a fun class at the PCCM

Greater than – expecting more I am typing this in my classroom at the end of my final student-led conference with my students’ families. A question I often get is, “How do you do it?” regarding growth that parents see in their kids’ responsibility level, leadership skills and academic achievement.

My answer is simple; I had been aware of it for some time now. “I expect more from them.”

When I receive students in September, we start slow; we build a trust in our abilities and strengths. Once this is set, I

remind them that they are sixth graders, the leaders of the school, and younger kids look up to them.

I make it clear that I’m setting the bar high for them as leaders, students and citizens of our school community.

You’d be surprised to see how hardworking these sixth graders become as they begin to reach those expectations. They realize that it takes discipline, courage and mental toughness, but anyone can exceed their own goals, and they are encouraged to grow beyond what their own

understanding of their skills are.

A year ago I dove head first into my early years of personal and professional growth. I challenged myself, and I now live by example. I teach students that their main competition is who they were a month ago. We are learning about comparing values in math in regards to fractions (greater than, less than, equal to).

I remind my students that their responsibility is to be greater than their own records; that true growth is when you celebrate your own journey and how far you’ve come.

Parent tip: Raise the bar

I am working with high school aged girls who, through the Dalagita project, are learning to network and connect with women who are their role models. These girls are between ages 16 and 18 but are showing a maturity beyond their years.

My sixth grade students are thinking outside the box; they are learning by exploring the world around them and taking risks towards their own academic leaps. They understand that their actions make an impact when executed with persistence, grit, and or course, respect.

It’s not wrong to expect more from your children – as long as it is a healthy and attainable level of growth. Too many times I see parents who, with the best intentions for protecting their children, hover and have a set limit of what they believe their child can do. Let your children take baby steps toward going past those very limits. Let them explore their strengths. Encourage and celebrate their growth.

Judianne Jayme is an educator teaching sixth grade and a division-wide mentor in the Winnipeg School Division.

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

O P E N

PAGE 11

H O U S E

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SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ

PAGE 12

PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

• Pia Wurtzbach – May broken-heart ang beauty queen • JaDine loveteam – Ang US producer ang may sala • Kris Aquino – Palpak ang balik-TV “Trip ni Kris” • Piolo Pascual at Yen Santos – Lugi sa box office ang tambalan • Mahal – Kawawa, matinding indulto ang pinagdadaanan Dahil sa rebelasyon ng pagkakaroon na ng anak ng car racer na si Marlon Stockinger ay maraming nagtatanong ngayon kung tuloy pa rin ba ang kanilang relasyon ng ating beauty queen na si Pia Wurtzbach.

Nagkani-kaniyang opinyon na ang ating mga kababayan tungkol doon. May mga nagsasabing sana’y mas gumana ang utak ngayon ni Pia kesa sa kaniyang puso.

Kung talagang mahal daw siya ni Marlon, sa unang araw pa lang ng kanilang pagkikilala ay sinabi na dapat ng lalaki ang kaniyang nakaraan, pero natagalan pa bago iyon nalaman ni Pia. Kundi pa lumitaw si Kit Barraquias na nakarelasyonnaanakan nito ay wala pang malalaman si Pia. Nabigla ang beauty queen, dahil wala naman kasing nababanggit na ganoon sa kaniya ang car racer.

May kuwento ring nagkaroon ng argumento ang dalawa na nauwi na sa hiwalayan. Masakit na masakit daw ang loob ni Pia dahil hindi nagpakatotoo sa kaniya ang car racer kaya napahiya siya sa publiko nang

lumutang ang katotohanan tungkol sa nakaraan ng kaniyang boyfriend.

Sabi nga ni prop, “Napapahiya siya ngayon dahil sobrang engrossed siya sa relasyon nila ni Marlon. Lahat na lang ng mga nangyayari sa kanila, e, ipinagsisigawan niya sa buong mundo.

“Kaya ngayong lumabas na ang kuwento na may anak na palang kambal ang boyfriend niya, feeling ni Pia, e, napakalaki ng dapat niyang panagutan sa mga followers niya.

“She’s not discreet kasi, she’s too flaunty, feeling din ng lahat, e, mas mahal na mahal niya si Marlon kesa sa mahal siya.

Kung naging maingat lang siya sa paglalabas ng kung anu-anong posts about them, wala sana siyang guilt feelings ngayon,” kabuuang sabi ng kaibigan naming propesor. *** So, tapos na ang boksing!

Nakikipaghalikan na sa lona ang humamon sa JaDine loveteam!

Nagbenta pala si Elaine Crisostomo ng tickets para sa See CRISTY p16

Kris Aquino Marlon Stockinger & Pia Wurtzbach

James Reid & Nadine Lustre Piolo Pascual & Yen Santos

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

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Call (204) 784-1600 today to arrange a visit to Balmoral Hall School. #BHgirls www.balmoralhall.com

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ

PAGE 14

PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

The housewives fight back in D’Originals

The immigrant experience Patrick Cruz exhibits work at Plug In Institute The Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art launched their spring program with an exhibition by award winning Filipino-Canadian artist, Patrick Cruz on Thursday, April 13. The exhibit, entitled Titig Kayumanggi (Brown Gaze) is Cruz’s first major exhibition in Winnipeg.

Patrick Cruz who is known for his bold gestural style and bright colors has transformed one of Plug IN’s galleries into an immersive environment. On Saturday, April 15 Patrick Cruz was on hand to give visitors a tour of the exhibition in Filipino (Tagalog), followed by an artist talk in English.

“The exhibition… is a culmination of my experience living as an immigrant, as a person of colour, and as an artist who tries to understand our world today,” said Cruz who immigrated to Canada in 2005.

Animated patterned paintings line the walls and floor of the Plug In ICA street front gallery, enveloping the space and its visitors. A personal history of immigration from the Philippines to Canada is a story traced on the surface of Cruz’s canvasses, made visible through the accumulation of line, colour and gesture, stacked See PATRICK p15

Arist Patrick Cruz installs his art pieces in preparation for his exhibit.

How does a woman protect her home from the “other woman?”

Now, the wives can even with their philandering husbands as GMA Network airs the sexy dramedy series, D’Originals.

The Kapuso Network’s latest offering is the hilarious story of three wives and their tussles with the three women who disrupt their quiet, domestic lives.

Top billed by 2016 Cannes Best Actress, Jaclyn Jose, D’Originals also features 2016 Gawad Urian Best Actress LJ Reyes and Bagong Pantasya ng Bayan Kim Domingo.

Together with Katrina Halili, Jestoni Alarcon, Mark Herras, Meg Imperial, Archie Alemania, and Lovely Abella, the stellar cast brings to life a sexy comedy drama about three wives, three mistresses, and the three husbands in between them.

Jaclyn plays the domestic diva whose prowess in the kitchen is matched only by her rival, Katrina.

Jestoni, meanwhile, plays the role of Jaclyn’s used-to-be loyal husband who strays when faced with the excitement of an affair at mid-life.

LJ is an entrepreneur who is forced to be the family’s breadwinner when husband Mark chooses to sit it out at home while waiting for his dream job. When his wife becomes too busy for his amorous advances, he finds more than enough comfort in the company of his sister-in-law, Lovely.

Kim plays a sexy Zumba instructor who has become a veteran of husband Archie’s numerous affairs. However, the latest woman, Meg, is proving to be more destructive than usual. To top it off, the other woman reveals See ORIGINALS p15

Kim Domingo

Katrina Halili

Lovely Abella

Meg Imperial

Casey Mecija Photo by May Troung

Photo by Sarah Nesbitt

“External Packaging” by Filipino-Canadian artist Patrick Cruz

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 15

Watch the star-studded Mulawin vs. Ravena Watch the star-studded Mulawin vs. Ravena GMA Network has unveiled the star-studded and powerhouse cast of Mulawin vs. Ravena.

Headlining the biggest telefantasya of GMA this 2017 is Kapuso Drama King Dennis Trillo who returns as Gabriel, Alwina’s childhood friend who is in love with her and becomes the King of Halconia.

The multi-talented Kapuso actress Carla Abellana will be portraying the role of Aviona, the wife of Rodrigo and one of the most loved and recognized Mulawin in Avila.

Actress Lovi Poe is Magindara, a mermaid guarding Lake Venado. She is the one and only daughter of Sandawa and known to be the goddess of the sea.

And joining her first-ever full length telefantasya, Asia’s Songbird, Regine VelasquezAlcasid as Sandawa, the immortal goddess of nature.

Playing very special roles are: Heart EvangelistaEscudero - Breathing life to the iconic character of Alwina, sugo ng mga Mulawin. It can be recalled that Alwina gave birth to a child destined to once again be the saviour of their race and

ORIGINALS...

From page 14 a secret that shocks the life out of the legal wife.

In an interview, Jaclyn shares what makes D’Originals different from other shows about married couples. “[It’s] Experimental— dramedy sa hapon. Tungkol ito sa mga kababaihan na may asawa, at ang mga asawa nila ay may other women. Light ito at situational, ‘yung mga nangyayari talaga sa totoong buhay,” she said.

LJ, for her part, said, “We’re very excited kasi hindi siya basta-basta soap, based on reality talaga siya. May studies din silang ginawa. May na-interview

PATRICK...

From page 14 and amassed into an immersive installation. Titig Kayumanggi is the artist’s gaze – his perspective stylistically melded into a densely cluttered and unified world of painted lines and bold colours, collaged videos, and stacked objects.

In 2015, Cruz won the 17th Annual RBC Canadian Painting Competition. He has shown across North America, Europe and Asia with recent exhibitions at Projet Pangee, Montreal; Centre A, Vancouver; Project 20, Quezon City, Philippines; and Multiplex, Portland. His work can be seen currently at the Art Gallery of Alberta, and was presented in 2016 at the Mexico Material Art Fair. In addition to his solo work, Cruz has collaborated on numerous occasions including screenings

the human world.

Kapuso actor Tom Rodriguez as Rodrigo, Aviona’s husband and Anya’s father.

Ariel Rivera joins the cast as Panabon, a member of the Council of Elders in Avila and the representative of the Tabon (Mulawin half-bloods).

Featuring in this primetime masterpiece are the hottest young Kapuso love teams: Bea Binene is Anya, the half-blood daughter of Aviona banished from Avila, Derrick Monasterio is tapped to play Almiro, the son of Alwina and Aguiluz, Bianca Umali is Lawiswis, the love of Pagaspas’ life who, after 12 years, has blossomed into a beautiful young Avian and Miguel Tanfelix once again spawns life to Pagaspas, a former owl who transitioned into a young Mulawin.

Kiko Estrada is tapped to play the role of Rafael, the mortal enemy of Almiro.

Completing the cast are the following: Mga Mulawin: Valerie Concepcion as Tuka, the adoptive mother of Lawiswis; David Licauco as Malik; and Roi Vinzon as Daragit, the de facto ruler of the Mulawin after the death of Aguiluz.

Mga Ravena: Chynna See MULAWIN p19 silang mga totoong tao. Based on experiences talaga,” she shared.

Having played the role of the other woman in her last teleserye, Kim welcomes her role in this new show, adding that while the show deals with a serious topic, they will see to it that viewers have a good laugh, too. “Hindi ito ‘yung tipo na mga original na asawa na kapag nahuli nila yung asawa nila na may kabit, ‘yung tipong katapusan na ng mundo. Ito, idadaan nila sa mas magaan, may halong comedy,” she added.

Joining them are Mikoy Morales, Arny Ross, Elyson De Dios, and Chlaui Malayao. This sexy dramedy series is directed by Adolf Alix, Jr. and performances. RBC, TD Bank, and private collectors in Manila, Hongkong, Vancouver, Calgary, Toronto, and Florida have all collected his works.

On Thursday, April 20 at 7:00 p.m., Casey Mecija, a scholar, musician and performance artist, will perform Psychic Materials amidst the immersive space of Patrick Cruz’s Titig Kayumanggi exhibit. Drawing on her background as a musician in the orchestral pop band Ohbijou and recent solo projects, Mecija uses a mash up of video and GIF art, performance, sound and her academic training to meditate on “the queer dynamics of diaspora.”

The Titig Kayumanggi exhibition continues its run at the Plug In Institute of Contemporary Art, 460 Portage Avenue in Winnipeg, until June 4, 2017. For more detailed information on the exhibition visit www.plugin.org.

Regine Velasquez

Heart Evangelista

Lovi Poe

Bianca Umali

Carla Abellana

Bea Binene

Valerie Concepcion

Winwyn Marquez

Chynna Ortaleza

Dennis Trillo

Derrick Monasterio

Miguel Tanfelix

OUR COMMUNITY

PAGE 16

PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

MPNP – A New Beginning for New Immigrants – documentary film A locally produced documentary, Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program – A New Beginning for New Immigrants, produced by Gemma Delayoan of Gemton Film Productions and MTS Stories from Home had its free public screening on April 8, 2017 at the Tech Voc High School. Photos by Alex Canlapan and Noel Vasquez

Gemma Dalayoan

Ernesto Ofiaza

MAFTI members and officers

Fernando Delayoan

CRISTY...

From page 12 isang brunch. Ang kaniyang pangako sa mga ticket buyers ay darating sa brunch ang JaDine, makikipagkuwentuhan sa mga kababayan natin, doon na rin magsasawa ang mga mayhawak ng tickets sa isang mahabaang photo opportunity.

E, wala naman palang alam ang Viva Live sa brunch. Lalong walang alam sina James Reid at Nadine Lustre, kaya namuti ang mga mata ng mga Pinoy sa kahihintay sa paborito nilang tambalan.

‘Yan ang hirap kung minsan sa mga show promoter, magbebenta sila ng tickets sa mga kababayan natin sa ibang bansa na kakambal ang pangako na makakasalo nila sa brunch, dinner, merienda o anuman ang mga performers, pero wala naman iyon sa usapan.

E, walang sumipot na JaDine sa pinlanong brunch ng tomboy, ano ngayon ang gagawin niya, di ang isalba na lang ang pagmumukha niya sa mga naghahabol na ticket holders?

Sino ngayon ang nasira sa mga kababayan natin sa Amerika? Ang JaDine ba na walang kamalay-malay sa pinagkakitaang brunch ng Elaine na ito? Suplado pala si James Reid, ha? Maldita pala si Nadine Lustre, ha?

Tandang-tanda pa namin kung sino ang Elaine Crisostomo na nagpakalat ng kasiraan See CRISTY p17

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 17

Winnipegger Nilo Moncal – 3rd place 2017 South Saskatchewan Chess Championship The 2017 South Saskatchewan Chess Championship was held in Regina from February 17 to 19. A total of 53 players from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Northwest Territories, and France – including one FIDE Master and four National Masters (NM) – battled one of the toughest competitions in Canada.

Eight rated Manitoban chess players participated in the weekend tournament. In the end, Winnipeg’s Nilo Moncal tied for third place with Saskatchewan’s NM Robert Sasata.

NM Daniel Kazmaier and Isaac Wiebe tied for first place.

Photos from far left: Nilo faces Sask. chess champion Kyrilo Demchenco; Nilo before the 5-round-game; Nilo receives $1,500 prize; Organizer and Nilo with trophy

CRISTY...

From page 16 tungkol sa JaDine. Hindi kami puwedeng magkamali, kami ang natokang mag-interbyu sa kaniya, ibinuyangyang niya sa buong mundo noon ang pagpapakasal nila ni Desiree del Valle sa Amerika.

Lantad na tibo si Elaine Crisostomo. Walang krimen sa pagiging tomboy pero ang magpakalat ng mga kuwentong puro kababalaghan ay ibang usapan na.

Bago ang JaDine ay siniraan din ng tomboy na ito si Marion Aunor. Dahil din iyon sa isang show sa Amerika kung saan hindi tumupad si Elaine sa mga pinagkasunduan nila ni Lala Aunor.

Binaligtad ni Elaine Crisostomo ang kuwento, ang mag-ina pa ang lumabas na masama, galit na galit sa tomboy na ito ang nag-abono pa nga sa show na si Maribel Aunor.

Wala siyang karapatang magreklamo at manira dahil hindi naman siya ang kausap ng Viva Live, kumbaga sa taxi ay wala siyang sariling linya at nakikabit lang siya kay Nancy Yang na kakontrata ng produksiyon, kaya ano ang karapatan niyang wasakin ang loveteam?

Kung nagbenta man siya ng mga ticket para sa brunch, ano ang karapatan niyang piliting magpunta doon ang JaDine, samantalang wala naman iyon sa

usapan ng Viva Live at ni Nancy Yang?

Bakit kaya hindi umuwi dito ang tomboy na ito para dito siya magdadakdak? E, ni wala pala siyang pasaporteng magkalat ng mga paninira dahil hindi naman siya ang kakontrata ng produksiyong humahawak sa JaDine?

Bastos pala at hindi marunong tumupad sa usapan ang magkaloveteam, ha? Bigyan ng piso ang tomboyitang ‘yan para may makinig sa mga kababalaghan niyang kuwento! *** Ang inaasahan ng mga kababayan natin ay magiging bonggang-bongga ang rating ng pagbabalik-TV ni Kris Aquino.

Matagal kasi siyang na-miss ng manonood, kaya kahit sa ngalan ng curiosity kung ano ang mga bago niyang ihahandog ay mataas na rating ang magiging kakambal noon.

Maraming nag-abang sa kaniyang Trip Ni Kris. Mahigit na isang taon na siyang wala sa aksiyon, kaya curious ang ating mga kababayan na tutukan siya, pero hindi naging garantiya iyon sa napakababang rating na nakuha ng kaniyang show.

Pero hindi nagtagumpay si Kris. Kinabog pa siya ni Vice Ganda na hindi naman nakikipagkumpetensiya sa kaniyang unang sultada. Hindi naganap ang inaasahan ng marami, siguro raw ay panahon See CRISTY p18

PAGE 18

The Fil-Kam Golf Group will hold its second annual Charity Golf Classic on July 15, 2017 at the Kildonan Golf Course. Proceeds from the tournament will be donated to Bahay Aruga in Manila, a free halfway house for pediatric patients with cancer.

On February 3, 2017 the Fil-Kam Group of Winnipeg, headed by General (Ret) Pedro Bulaong visited Bahay Aruga to donate P200,000 that they raised in their first charity golf tournament.

Registration for this year’s tournament will be at 10:00 a.m., July 15. Tee-off will be at 11:00 a.m.

For more information, contact Fil-Kam President Romeo Roque, 204-2955940, or Vice President Raul Bulaong, 204-227-3981.

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Golfing for charity

Photos courtesy of Felino De Jesus

CRISTY...

From page 17 na para mamahinga pa nang mahaba-habang panahon ang aktres-TV host para ma-miss siya nang husto ng mga kababayan natin.

At hindi naging maganda ang reaksiyon ng marami sa pagbibitiw niya ng mga hindi kagandahang salita tungkol sa kaniyang prodyuser na si Rhodora Morales at sa anak nitong si Konsehal Renan.

Masakit para sa car racer na anak ni Mrs. Morales ang ibinunyag ni Kris na nagaambisyon palang maging vicegovernor ng Nueva Ecija si

Renan.

Pakiramdam ni Kris ay nagamit lang siya sa pagbuo ng TV show, para sa interes lang daw iyon ni Renan at hindi naman para sa kaniya, sabi pa ng TV host.

Ikinasama rin ng kalooban ng TV host ang pagpapa-presscon ng mag-ina na wala siya. Ginagamit lang daw siya ng kaniyang prodyuser at ng anak nito.

Isang napakasarkastikong “super-use-me-in-a-sentence� pa ang paglalarawan ni Kris sa ginawa ng mag-ina. Nag-press release din daw ang pamilya na super-yaman ang mga ito pero delayed namang magbayad ng talent fee niya at ng kaniyang staff.

Napakatalinong tao naman ni Kris. Kung pinairal niya ang talas ng kaniyang pangamoy, sa umpisa pa lang ng pakikipagtransaksiyon niya kay Manang Doray ay naramdaman na sana niya kung ano ang motibo nito ng pamumuhunan sa kaniyang show, sa kaniya pa ba naman makalulusot iyon?

Siguradong sising-alipin na ngayon ang mag-inang Rhodora at Renan Morales sa mga komentong binitiwan ni Kris patungkol sa kanila.

Hindi biro ang sampung milyong pisong ipinuhunan ni Rhodora Morales sa kaniyang pagbabalik-telebisyon. Halagang pinaghirapan ng pamilya sa loob

nang maraming taon ang isinugal nito para magkaoon siya ng show.

Doon pa lang ay dapat nang magpasalamat si Kris, iyon pa lang ay nagbigay na dapat sa kaniya ng senyal na magtiklop ng kaniyang dila sa kung anumang nasa utak niya. Hindi maganda sa pananaw ng mas nakararami ang ginawa niya na pagkatapos ng kaniyang gusto ay ganyan pa ang ginawa niya sa mga taong nagtiwala sa kaniya.

Negang-nega si Kris Aquino ngayon. Pero kung iisipin ay siya naman ang humingi ng sitwasyong ito. Sadya man o hindi ay siya ang nagpasimuno at gumawa ng dahilan para siya upak-upakan ngayon sa social

media.

*** Ang dami-dami naming tinatanggap na hindi kagandahang kuwento tungkol sa pelikulang Northern Lights, a Journey to Love na pinagbidahan nina Piolo Pascual at Yen Santos. Kumbaga sa karihan ay matumal ang benta ng kanilang produkto.

Nakapanghihinayang dahil gumastos nang malaki ang produksiyon para sa pelikula,.

Kinailangan nilang mag-shooting sa ibang bansa para makapaghain sila ng bago sa publiko, pero mukhang mailap na ang box office ngayon sa guwapong aktor.

Nakaapekto kaya ang See CRISTY p19

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

MULAWIN...

From page 15

PILIPINO EXPRESS

Ortaleza as Reyna Rashana, sister of the former Ravena King Rasmus; Dion Ignacio as Siklab, the clandestine crown prince of the Ravena; Winwyn Marquez asRibay; and TJ Trinidad as Greco, a soldier and Gabriel’s right-hand man.

The actors who will play equally important roles in the mortal world: Angelu De Leon as Lourdes, the adoptive mother

of Pagaspas, Bobby Andrews as Dionisio, Anya’s adoptive father, Joko Diaz as Antonio, Charee Pineda as Savana, Rafael’s mother and ruthless owner of Hacienda Montenegro and Nova Villa as Lola Elo, mother of Rodrigo and adoptive grandmother of Almiro.

Mulawin vs. Ravena is directed by two of GMA’s acclaimed directors Dominic Zapata and Don Michael Perez who is also the concept creator and head writer of the series.

Dion Ignacio

Roi Vinzon

CRISTY...

From page 18 pinagpistahan nilang retratovideo ng kaniyang anak na si Iñigo sa hindi gaanong pagsuporta ng ating mga kababayan sa pinakahuli niyang pelikula?

Hindi naman puwedeng nakulangan ang manonood sa pelikula. Bagung-bago ang tema noon kung tutuusin, napakaganda ng mga eksena at makabuluhan ang kuwento ng pelikula.

Pana-panahon nga lang ‘yan.

Noon naman ay panalung-panalo ang mga proyekto ng papa ng bayan. Pareho silang nabiyayaan ni Judy Ann Santos ng suwerte, kahit anong klase ng pelikula ang gawin nila bilang magkaloveteam ay nakakahon na ang tagumpay noon.

Komento naman ng kaibigan naming propesor, “Bitbit naman kasi ni Piolo ang bigat ng movie. Siya ang may hawak ng responsibilidad na pakitain iyon.

“Maliit na artista pa rin si Yen Santos. Sana, binigyan siya ng leading lady na makakasabay niya sa pagdadala ng pelikula.

Maganda ang movie, parang travelogue nga iyon, parang narating na rin ng moviegoers ang location nila.

“But Piolo alone can’t make it happen. Kailangang may kasama siyang big star para ibenta ang project. Hindi si Yen ang tamang leading lady for Piolo.

“Nakakapanghinayang lang dahil pinaghirapan nila ang pelikula, ginastusan ng production ang movie, pero kapag nanood ka, e, bilang na bilang ang mga nanonood.

“Sayang, maganda pa naman ang movie, pati ang kuwento, maayos din ang pagkakabuo.

Sayang na sayang talaga,” komento pa ni propesor. *** May matinding indulto palang pinagdaanan ang kakapiranggot See CRISTY p20

PAGE 19

EH KASI, PINOY!

PAGE 20

PILIPINO EXPRESS

KROSWORD

HOROSCOPE

NO. 274

ABRIL 16 – 30, 2017

Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot

PAHALANG 1. Inaatake 5. Hinaharap 12. Hugis bilog 13. Maliwanag 14. Matanda, sa Ilocos 15. Tikas 16. Bayan sa Cavite 20. Bundok sa Bataan 24. Nasa 25. Wari 26. Kabisera ng Guam 27. Uri ng pansit 28. Nginuya 30. Pinang-alab PABABA 1. Tiklis 2. Hinuha 3. Igapos 4. Siga 6. Di pareho 7. Naghihintay 8. Totoy 9. Samahan ni Ka Andres

10. Sasapian 11. Angkin 16. Sabik 17. Unlapi 18. Di nakakarinig 19. Hukayin 20. Harang 21. Diyos-diyosan 22. Sarili 23. Bait 29. Pang-abay

SAGOT SA NO. 273

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Aries (March 21 – April 19) Magandang oportunadad ang nakalaan sa iyo ngayong buwan.

Kung may nawala man, may kapalit agad iyon. Kung single ka, huwag mong ibababa ang pamantayan mo sa magiging kasama mo habangbuhay. May darating na pusong tamang-tama sa iyo. OK ang ika-16, 24 at 25. Ingat sa ika17, 18 at 30.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) May matinding atraksyon kang nararamdaman sa isang tao na bago mo pa lang nakikilala.

Malamang ay nararamdaman din niya ito para sa iyo. Kung single ka, hayaan mong yumabong ang inyong pagiging magkaibigan at kilalanin mo muna siya ng husto.

OK ang ika-16, 24 at 25. Ingat sa ika-19, 20, 21, 26 at 27.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Parang may napipisil ka na para sa magiging partner mo pero may duda pa rin sa puso mo kung siya na nga ba ang magpapaligaya sa iyo. Kung hindi mo makalimutan ang nagdaang karelasyon at lagi kang nagkukumpara, baka nga hindi pa tama ang panahon. OK ang ika-16, 24 at 25. Ingat sa ika22, 23, 28 at 29.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Matagal ka nang parang may dinaramdam.

Ngayon ay makikita mo na kung bakit. Kung kalusugan, malalaman mo ang dahilan at magagawan mo ito ng solusyon. Kung tungkol sa puso, lilinaw na ang lahat. Kung sa pera, darating ang hinihintay mong kita. OK ang ika-17, 18, 26 at 27. Ingat sa ika-19, 20 at 21.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Huwag sanang manghihina ang loob mo kung hindi natutupad agad ang mga plano. May mga bagay na haharang sa tagumpay ng mga nais mong gawin. Habaan mo ang pasensya. Palipasin mo ang buwan ng Abril. Buwenas ang mga susunod na buwan. OK ang ika-17, 18, 26 at 27. Ingat sa ika-16, 22, 23, 28 at 29.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Nagsasawa ka na sa tabaho mo at talagang gusto mo nang maghanap ng iba para sa kabuhayan. Pero, madali ka kayang makakakuha ng kapalit sa hanapbuhay mo ngayon? Mahalin mo muna ito dahil napakahirap humanap ng ibang trabaho ngayon. OK ang ika-17, 18, 26 at 27. Ingat sa ika24, 25 at 30.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Kumplikado talaga ang pagibig. Kung may mga oras na nalilito ka kung nasaan ang inyong relasyon, manahimik ka na lang muna. Huwag mo nang palalain pa. Huwag ka ring aasa sa imposible. Maging makatotoo ka at makikita mo ang katahimikan.

OK ang ika-19, 20, 21, 28 at 29.

Ingat sa ika-16, 22 at 23.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) Iwasan mong pumasok agad sa isang relasyon lalo na kung hindi ka sigurado. Huwag kang padadala sa buyo ng mga nakapaligid sa iyo.

Hindi ka mauubusan ng magiging ka-partner mo sa buhay. Kung “reto” ng kaibigan, huwag kang magpa-pressure. OK ang ika-19, 20, 21, 28 at 29. Ingat sa ika-17, 18, 24, 25 at 30.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) Mag-focus ka para mapabuti ang iyong kalusugan.

Kung nanghihina ka, baka kulang ka sa tulog at tamang pagkain. Ayusin mo ang iyong mental health, kadalasan ang mga nararamdamang sakit ay dahil lamang sa magulong sitwasyon ng emosyon. Mag-meditate ka.

OK ka sa ika-19, 20, 21, 28 at 29.

Ingat sa ika-26 at 27.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Wala kang problema sa iyong trabaho. Masipag ka at alam mo ang ginagawa mo. Sapat na iyon upang pakinabangan mo ang hanapbuhay. Mag-ingat ka sa mga tao na aayain kang maglagay ng puhunan sa bagong negosyo.

Bantayan mo rin ang kalusugan.

OK ang ika-22, 23 at 30. Ingat sa ika-17, 18, 24 at 25.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) Kung nasasaktan ka kapag pinapansin niya ang iyong timbang o itsura, baka oras na para maghanap ka ng iba. Kung ang basehan ng romansa ay pisikal na anyo, di ba parang ang “babaw” naman niya?

Gusto mo bang palagi ka niyang iniinsulto? Di tama iyon. OK ang ika-22, 23 at 30. Ingat sa ika-19, 20, 21, 26 at 27.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Ayusin mo ang iyong pisikal na kaanyuan. Piliin mo ang iyong damit na tama para sa iyong edad.

Mahirap pagtiwalaan ang isang tao na kakaiba ang itsura. Mahalaga ito lalo na kung may mga bago kang kakilala na inaasahan mong tutulong sa iyong negosyo o proyekto. OK ang ika-22, 23 at 30.

Ingat sa ika-16, 28 at 29.

siya doon, kinuha ng lalaki ang kaniyang numero, niligawan siya nito. Kinausap ni Mae ang lalaki, sinabi ng singer na walang pera si Mahal, pero ang bulilit na babae ang mapilit na magpakasal na sila ng lalaki dahil baka raw magbago pa ang isip nito.

Kinulit-kulit ni Mahal si Mae, kaya isang araw ay ipinakasal nito ang kaniyang kaibigan sa lalaki, sa huwes sila ikinasal at si Mae ang gumastos sa lahat-lahat.

Sabi ni Mae Rivera, “Ako, kinausap ko ang lalaki. Sinabi ko na sa kaniya na walang pera si Mahal, pero ito naman palang si Mahal, eh, kung anu-anong pangako ang sinasabi doon sa lalaki!

“Ipagpapatayo raw niya ng bahay ang lalaki, magpapatayo rin daw siya ng building sa Bicol, para may mapaupahan ang

pamilya ng lalaki.

“Sino ang paniniwalaan ng lalaki, ako ba o si Mahal? Habang sinasabi kong wala siyang pera, eh, pangako naman pala siya nang pangako sa boyfriend niya ng kung anu-anong kababalaghan!” kuwento ni Mae. Natuloy ang kasal. Kapag may pera raw si Mahal ay napakasweet sa kaniya ng lalaki, pero kapag wala na, sinasaktan na nito ang kakapiranggot na babae.

“Noong minsan, eh, tinanong ko siya. Mugtung-mugto kasi ang mga mata niya. Sabi ko, ano’ng problema? Wala raw.

Pero ramdam na ramdam ko na mayroon.

“Kumpisal ni Mahal, kapag kumikita raw siya sa mga shows na tinatanggap ko na isinasama ko siya para kumita naman, eh, agad See CRISTY p22

CRISTY...

From page 19 na komedyanteng si Mahal. Sa liit niyang iyon ay parang kasinglaki ng mundo ang pinapasan niyang problema.

Nakikipisan ngayon si Mahal sa bahay ni Mae Rivera, ang singer na nagpasikat ng piyesang Aray, ito ang nakakaalam ng buong kuwento ng pinakahuling matinding problema ng maliit na babae.

Walang ibang problemang kinasasangkutan si Mahal kundi ang kaniyang buhay-pag-ibig.

Napakabilis niyang maniwala na mahal siya ng lalaki, masakit mang pakinggan ay totoong utuin si Mahal, kaya siya sumasabit sa kontrobersiya.

May nakilala siyang lalaki sa Pangasinan nang mag-show

EH KASI, PINOY!

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 21

Ang singsing Maikling kuwento ni Emmie Z. Joaquin

Ang mga tauhan at mga pangyayari sa kuwentong ito ay kathang-isip lamang at hindi tumutukoy sa anumang tunay na tao o sitwasyon.

Mula sa aking pagkakaupo ay nagtama ang paningin namin ng lalaking kapapasok pa lamang sa waiting room.

“Kilala ko siya,” naisip ko, “Saan nga ba? At kailan?”

Lumapit siya sa receptionist at pagkatapos ay naupo sa dulong silya. Binawi ko na ang aking tingin at binalingan ko sina Ching at Brenda na wala pa ring tigil ang kuwentuhan at nakihalo na muli ako sa aming chikahan.

Sa aking pagkakaupo’y nakatalikod ako sa lalaking bagong dating subalit nanatiling nakapaskel sa aking isip ang kaniyang mukha dahil talagang napakapamilyar sa akin ng kaniyang mukha.

“Mrs. Brenda Garces,” tawag ng receptionist, “kayo na po ang kasunod na pasyente ni Doctor.”

Naiwan kami ni Ching sa waiting room nang tumayo si Brenda patungo sa kuwarto ng doktor. Lumipat ako ng upuan upang masipat kong mabuti ang lalaking iyon. Nagtamang muli ang aming paningin. Yumuko ako agad. Tila may kumalabog sa aking dibdib. Sa pagkakataong iyon, parang bombilyang umilaw sa aking gunita ang nakaraan. Naalala ko na kung sino ang kamukha niya.

Nagkakilala kami ni Bobby noong 1980 sa isang high school meet. Manlalaro ng basketball si Bobby at ako naman at ang aking barkada ay kasama ng cheering squad.

Sa una pa lang naming paguusap ay nagkahulugan na kami ng loob. Sa simula pa lang ay hindi na kami maubusan ng kuwento.

Pagdating sa bahay, tumatawag agad siya upang makipagkuwentuhan. Hindi pa ako pinapayagang tumanggap ng dalaw noon kung kaya hindi siya nakaakyat nang pormal sa aming bahay.

Guwapo si Bobby. Matangkad, mestisuhin, magandang magdala ng damit. Subalit hindi lang kagandahang panlabas ang dahilan ng pagkahulog ng aking loob sa kaniya. Siya’y mabait, magalang at hindi mayabang katulad ng ibang mga basketball superstars sa campus noon.

Ang alam ko lang noon, dumadalas ang kaba ng aking dibdib kapag nakikita ko siya. Sa aking murang gulang, wala pang ibang lalaking nakaapekto sa akin nang tulad niya.

Panay ang tukso sa akin ng ibang members ng cheering squad namin. Napansin nilang mula nang magkakilala kaming

dalawa, panay na ang hang-out nina Bobby at kaniyang mga kaibigan sa may resto na malapit sa gym kung saan kami namang mga babae’y nagtatagpo bago magpractice.

Inimbita ako ni Bobby sa JS prom at siyempre, pumayag naman ako. Nang kami ay nasa party na, biglang naglabas si Bobby ng isang singsing. May isang batong amethyst na napapaligiran ng maliliit na diamante.

“Mahal kita, Mila. Sana isuot mo itong singsing na ito kung mahal mo rin ako,” bulong niya habang kami’y nasa may veranda sa labas ng dance hall.

Walang pagsidlan ang aking galak ng mga sandaling iyon. Mabilis kong isinuot ang singsing at sa oras na iyon, ako na yata ang pinakamaligayang teenager sa buong mundo.

Naging masaya ang aming relasyon hanggang sa graduation niya sa high school. Palagi kami sa lakaran at disco kasama ang barkada. Paminsan-minsan ay nakakalusot ako sa aking mga magulang at nakakapanood kami ng sine nang kaming dalawa lamang.

Maginoo si Bobby. Kahit kailan ay hindi niya ako pinilit gawin ang hindi dapat sa aming pagmamahalan.

Sa hindi maiwasang dahilan, nag-immigrate ang pamilya ni Bobby sa Canada. Sinabi na niya sa akin ang planong iyon ng kaniyang mga magulang. lyon na rin marahil ang dahilan kung bakit parang walang katiyakan ang aming relasyon. Hindi siya nangako sa akin ng kahit ano para sa kinabukasan. Palagi lang niyang sinasabi noon na, “Masyado pa tayong bata, sana kahit tumanda na tayo’y mahal mo pa rin ako.

Huwag mo akong kakalimutan, ha, Mila?”

Masakit para sa akin ang pagalis ni Bobby. Subalit, tulad niya, ako’y isang teenager pa rin noon.

Bago siya umalis patungong abroad, isinauli ko sa kaniya ang singsing.

“Hindi yata tama na isuot ko itong singsing kung wala ka na,” lumuluhang sinabi ko kay Bobby noon.

“Kung tayong dalawa talaga, balang araw, babalik ang singsing na ito sa iyong daliri,” sabi naman niya.

Nangako kami sa isa’t isang madalas na magsusulatan. Subalit nagdaan ang ilang taon, dumalang nang dumalang ang mga sulat hanggang nawala na ang komunikasyon. Noon ay wala pang e-mail, text, facebook o skype.

Lumipas ang panahon. Nagasawa na ako at nagkaroon ng tatlong anak. Masaya ang aming pamilya nang biglang naaksidente si Cris at sa gulang na 34

ay nabiyuda na ako. Ibinuhos ko na lang ang aking oras sa pagpapalaki ng mga bata at negosyo.

Maganda ang aking kinikita sa aking import-export business na sinimulan naming mag-asawa noon at malaki ang naiwang life insurance ni Cris kung kaya maginhawa ang naging buhay naming mag-iina, Hindi na ako nag-asawa kahit may ilan din namang nanligaw sa akin. Nang natapos na sa unibersidad ang tatlo kong anak at nagsibukod na, paminsan-minsa’y pumapasok pa rin sa isip ko ang aking first love na si Bobby.

“Mrs. Mila Cortez, kayo na po ang kasunod kay doktor,” tawag ng receptionist.

Medyo nagulat ako nang marinig ko ang aking pangalan.

Tapos na si Brenda sa pagkonsulta sa doktor. Ako naman.

Palapit na ako sa pintuan nang biglang tumayo ang lalaking kamukha ni Bobby.

“Mila?” sabi niya.

Napahawak ako sa aking dibdib.

“Bobby?” balik-tanong ko naman.

“Oo, kumusta ka na?” tanong niya.

Sasagutin ko pa sana siya nang siya na rin ang nagmuwestra na tumuloy na ako sa silid ng doktor. “Paglabas mo, mag-usap tayo, ha?”

Tumango na lang ako dahil parang biglang naumid ang aking dila sa pagkakataong iyon.

Kasama ko ang aking mga kaibigan at kasosyo sa negosyo kung kaya naman ipinakilala ko lang sa kanila si Bobby bilang isang dating kaibigan at naghanda na kaming umalis sa klinika. Lumapit si Bobby sa akin at nagtanong kung paano niya ako matatawagan.

Parang walang anuman na inilabas ko ang aking business card at iniabot sa kaniya. Ewan ko kung nahalata ako ni Brenda at Ching dahil pakiramdam ko ay nanginginig ang aking kamay nang iniabot ko ang card kay Bobby.

“I’ll call you,” nakangiting sabi niya. “Sure, after six mamaya, nasa bahay na siguro ako,” sagot ko naman.

Matagal rin kaming nagkuwentuhan ni Bobby sa telepono nang gabing iyon.

“Mila, teenagers pa lang tayo nang huli tayong magkita! Ano na ang mga nangyari sa buhay mo?” excited na tanong niya sa akin.

Ikinuwento ko ang lahat ng natatandaan kong mahahalagang pangyayari sa aking buhay, pati na ang pagkamatay ni Cris at pagbubuhos ko ng loob at oras sa mga bata at negosyo.

“Masaya ang naging relasyon naming mag-asawa kung kaya naman kahit maaga siyang kinuha sa aming mag-iina, hindi nagtagal ang aking pagiging bitter tungkol sa pagkawala niya,” sabi ko. “Pati mga bata’y mababait at matatalino, wala na akong mahihiling pa sa Diyos.”

“Ikaw, how have you been?” tanong ko naman sa kaniya.

Marami ring nangyari sa buhay ni Bobby. Nang sila’y mag-immigrate sa Canada ay ipinagpatuloy niya ang pag- aaral hanggang sa siya’y maging isang engineer. Nakapagtrabaho siya sa isang malaking kompanya at palagi siyang nadedestino sa iba’t ibang lugar sa US at sa Europa.

Nakapag-asawa rin siya subalit dahil sa kaniyang pagiging abala sa trabaho at dahil na rin sa palagiang paglalakbay kung saansaan, hindi nagtagal at naghiwalay silang mag-asawa. Hindi sila nagkaanak at ngayo’y diborsyado na siya. Ngayon naman ay may branch na itatayo sa Makati ang kaniyang kompanya kung kaya mananatili muna siya sa Pilipinas nang mga tatlong taon.

Masaya ang naging kuwentuhan naming dalawa at nagkasundo kaming magkita sa labas sa kinabukasang iyon din. Hindi ko malaman kung bakit para na naman akong isang teenager na 1alabas sa unang date. Maganda at masarap na pakiramdam. Para akong nakatuntong sa ulap.

Halos tatlumpu’t apat na taon din ang nagdaan mula nang magpaalaman kaming dalawa sa isa’t isa. Hindi na ganoong kakisig si Bobby. Ang dati’y “perfect” niyang pangangatawan ay hindi na masyadong “perfect.” Mayroon na ring i1ang kunot sa kaniyang noo. Subalit matikas at guwapo pa rin siya sa aking paningin. Tuwing titingnan ko siya, nagbabalik sa aking gunita ang nakaraan at ang “17-year old” na Bobby pa rin ang nakikita ko at alam kong ako’y “in love” na muli.

May ilang buwan din kaming lumabas. Kilala na siya ng aking mga anak at mga malalapit na kaibigan. Mabait at masaya si Bobby kung kaya hindi naman nagtagal at parang kaisa na namin siya sa pamilya. Isang gabi’y may inila-

bas na singsing si Bobby. Nagulat ako nang makita ko ang singsing.

May amethyst na bato at maliliit na diamante sa paligid. Iyon ang singsing na ibinigay niya sa akin noong high school pa lang kami.

“Di ba sabi ko sa iyo noon, balang araw, kung tayo ngang dalawa, ibabalik ko ito sa iyong daliri?”

Tulad ko, madalas din daw sumagi sa kaniyang isip ang aming nagdaang masayang kabataan.

Kahit na may asawa na siya noon, ang singsing na ibinigay niya sa akin ay nakatago sa kaniyang mga personal na gamit. Hindi naman daw niya inasahang magkakabalikan pa kami dahil nagkaiba na ang aming mga landas, subalit sa kaibuturan ng kaniyang puso, nandoon pa rin daw ang pagasang, “Baka sakali, balang araw ay magkikita pa rin kami.”

Simple lang ang aming planong kasal at honeymoon. Maraming taon ang namagitan subali’t pakiramdam namin ay parang isang saglit lamang ang nagdaan.

May edad na kami subalit parang 16 at 17 pa rin ang aming pakiramdam.

Magbubukas na muli ako ng bagong chapter sa aking buhay.

Mas malaki at mas mamahalin na ang bato ng engagement ring na suot ko ngayon na itatabi ko sa wedding ring namin ni Bobby.

Nasaan ang unang singsing na ibinigay niya sa akin? Ah, iyon ay nakalagak sa isang magandang kahon at nakadisplay sa tabi ng aming larawang kuha noong gabi ng JS prom sa high school noong 1981. At oo nga pala, itatabi rin namin iyon sa aming wedding picture na kukunin sa kasal namin sa summer ngayong taon.

“Ang singsing” ay isang maikling kuwentong katha ni Emmie Z. Joaquin para sa Pilipino Express News Magazine.

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PEOPLE & EVENTS PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

Christian Miranda’s legacy of art at DMCI

by Lorraine Ilagan DMCI alumnus Christian Miranda has turned his passion for painting and art into a career.

Since immigrating to Canada in 2011, Christian has had many successes and has a left a legacy of art at his old high school, Daniel McIntyre Collegiate.

Wanting to share his love of art, Christian along with the supervision of art teacher, Robyn Rypp, started an after school art club called SIKHAY. This was an art program Christian was involved when when he was in the Philippines and spurred on by a promise to his mentor back home, that he would start up an art club at Daniel McIntyre. Even after graduating in 2013, the SIKHAY after-school art club continues today.

Not only did Christian start SIKHAY, where students can express their ideas and talents through various art forms, he has also left behind various murals in the school. His paintings can be found in the multi-purpose room, cafeteria and hallways.

However, his biggest contribution stands in the main hallway of the school. In 2015, Christian was commissioned to create a mural that depicted the school’s culturally diverse population along with an image of the school

and nods to DMCI’s academics, athletics, arts and technology.

After more than 126 hours of work, the mural is now a beautiful site for all who enter the halls of the school.

Christian continued his education at Red River College where he graduated in 2016 in its Digital Media Design program majoring in 3D art.

Today, he works at Evodant Interactive, creating concept art and 3D designs. In his spare time, he participates in various conventions where he sells different pieces of art, including Anime.

Christian’s talent has been recognized outside school and work. He has received awards and has been commissioned for a variety of projects. While attending DMCI, he received the US-based Gold Key Award at the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards in 2013 – an award won by Andy Warhol. His work has also been displayed in the National Gallery of Canada. Recently a print copy of a 30-page graphic novel he illustrated for Portage and Main Press was completed. The graphic novel tells the story of Mikak, a Labrador Inuit woman who lived in Newfoundland and Labrador and went to Europe and back.

He continues his endeavours in illustrating as he works on a new

DMCI alumnus Christian Miranda and his mural (See page 23 for his mural) book for Rubicon Publishing.

For his success and talent, Christian will now receive the DMCI AACE Award in the Youth category. His former DMCI art teacher, Mrs. Rypp nominated him. He was a clear choice for the Alumni board Awards Committee.

Christian was surprised about the nomination and win. He is humbled and has only kind words to say about his former teacher.

“She is happy, helped me a lot, and she’s amazing! She’s like

a mother to me.”

Christian has truly left a lasting impression and embodies DMCI’s motto of “Your Legacy Begins Here.” Indeed, Christian’s talent will continue to be witnessed throughout the halls of Daniel McIntyre as students and staff alike view his amazing art work all over the school. No doubt, Christian will be someone to watch out for as he leaves his mark in the world of digital media and art.

Christian will receive his

CRISTY...

From page 20 na siyang niyayaya ng asawa niya para mag-shopping.

“At take note, puro branded ang mga binibili ng lalaki, puro sa kaniya lang, ni walang nabibili si Mahal. Pagkatapos noon, eh, dedma na uli sa kaniya ang guy.

“Sa paanan nga siya ng lalaki natutulog! May malaking stuffed toy sa kama niya, iyon ang katabi ng lalaki, nasa paanan lang niya si Mahal.

“At ang masakit pa, ikinuwento sa akin ni Mahal na sinasampal siya noong lalaki kapag wala siyang maibigay na pera. Eh, susmaryosep naman!

Pagkaliit-liit na nga ng mukha niya, sasampalin pa?

“At heto pa. Pinapa-squat siya, nilalagyan ng mga libro ang magkabilang braso niya! Imagine, sa liit niyang ‘yan, eh, mabibigat na libro pa ang ipinapatong sa kaniya habang naka-squat siya?

“Sobra-sobrang hirap ang ipinatikim sa kaniya ng lalaking ngayon, eh, nasa Saudi na, nagtatrabaho na doon, ako pa

award at the Second DMCI AACE Awards Dinner to be held on Thursday, May 18 at the Fort Garry Hotel. Fellow alumnus, Joe Ogoms will also receive the award in the category of Athletic Achievement. Past alumni, friends, and family of the awardees are encouraged to come and honour the two recipients.

Tickets are $75 for the dinner and are available at the school.

Contact Mrs. Lorraine Ilagan at the school for more information, 204-783-7131.

ang nagpahiram ng placement fee niya para makaalis na lang!” suwabeng pagkukuwento ni Mae Rivera.

Paulit-ulit na lang na mangyayari ang ganyan kay Mahal dahil hindi siya nagpapakatotoo. Dinadaan niya sa pera ang pag-ibig sa lalaki.

Kung anu-anong pangako ang sinasabi niya samantalang alam naman niya na wala siyang pera.

Para makuha niya ang atensiyon at pagmamahal ng kakikilala lang niyang lalaki ay mangangako na siya agad na ibibili niya ito ng kotse, ipagpapatayo ng bahay, bibigyan ng negosyo ang pamilya nito.

Naniniwala naman sa kaniya ang lalaki kaya kahit hindi naman siya mahal ay nagpapanggap ito dahil sa pag-asang gaganda ang kaniyang buhay nang dahil kay Mahal.

Kailangang matuto ng leksiyon ang bulilit na komedyante. Makipagkilala siya dapat sa katotohanan. Kailangan niyang tanggapin na wala siyang pera at walang pagbabago siyang maibibigay sa estado ng buhay ng lalaki.

Kailangan siyang mahalin ng lalaki bilang siya, walang mga pero-pero, dapat siyang mahalin dahil siya si Mahal at wala nang iba pang dahilan.

Hanggang nabubuhay sa ilusyon si Mahal ay para laging mangyayari ang ganito sa kaniya.

Palagi lang siyang masasaktan, palagi lang siyang iiyak, walang magiging katahimikan ang kaniyang buhay. (CSF)

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

Christian Miranda’s mural, displayed in the main hallway of the school, depicts DMCI’s cultural diversity.

PAGE 23

Photo by Rey-Ar Reyes

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

APRIL 16 - 30, 2017