Pilipino Express • Jan 16 2017

Volume 13 • No. 2 • January 16 - 31, 2017 Publication Mailing Account #41721512

Stronger ties

Coleen Garcia

Kevin & Cindy Lamoureux talk immigration in the Philippines

Editor’s note: Kevin Lamoureux, the Member of Parliament for Winnipeg North, and his daughter Cindy Lamoureux, the Manitoba Member of the Legislative Assembly for Burrows Constituency, recently returned from a visit to the Philippines where they hosted several free immigration workshops. This is Kevin Lamoureux’s account of their trip.

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Every two or three years I make a point of going to the Philippines. I do so for a number of reasons. My office deals with over 400 immigration files each month.

The Philippines and India make up over 90 per cent of those files. So I am sure you can appreciate why See KEVIN p9

Kevin Lamoureux, MP Winnipeg North, tried several modes of transportation, including kalabaw, during his trip to the Philippines

A purpose-driven talent

17

Paul Ong and his music that gives

The cast of Meant To Be: Barbie Forteza, Ken Chan, Addy Raj, Ivan Dorschner and Jak Roberto

By Lucille Nolasco

MHEL ELAGO (204) 955-4654

landmhel@gmail.com

NOEL CADELINA JOEL SIBAL Sales, 6th Consecutive SMG Gold Ring Awardee

Service Consultant

PEEBEE PASCO

Sales & Leasing Consultant

www.landmhel.ca

DALE GARRIDO

Sales & Leasing Consultant

WINNIPEG – The new year is shaping up to be a good one for the staff and students of General Wolfe School in West End Winnipeg, thanks to their new mobile computer lab. The lab features a generous donation of 15 brand new laptop computers provided by local singer, Paul Ong. Paul staged a successful Christmas Concert For A Cause See PAUL p10

ROBERT MISA

Triple Diamond Sales Consultant Award 2014 - Gold Winner

NELSON LANTIN

Sales Manager

General Wolfe computer lab receives 15 new laptops from Paul Ong

ROMMEL FAJARDO Sales Manager

MA. LEE HOLGADO Sales Advisor

JEZREEL “The Jet” REYES Sales Advisor

CHRISTIAN REYES Sales Consultant

JOELAN MENDOZA

Collision Repair Advisor

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Move-In Ready Homes

50 Hillbrook Drive M ov e-

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Waterford Green & Castlebury Meadows

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JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

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“Canada was built by citizen immigrants, people who come here permanently with their families to become Canadians.”

- Hon. John McCallum, MP Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Respond to Canada’s need for immigrants.

Regulated Immigration Consultant Program Online | In-Class Both formats are available for students studying full-time or part-time.

NATIONAL Online (604) 628-5784 / 1(844) 628-5784 BRITISH COLUMBIA Vancouver (604) 283-2028 Abbotsford (604) 625-1150

Ashton College www.ashtoncollege.ca

Select programs are eligible for funding under Federal or Provincial Student Loan plans.

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Speaking of abortion...

Abortion is still illegal in the Philippines, and while some groups and individuals in the past have tried to take steps towards its legalization, one is still hardpressed to find anyone who will speak up for it openly. No politician has openly supported its legalization since it can mean losing support from his or her political base. Most Filipinos believe abortion constitutes murder, and the 1987 Constitution affirms this in Article II, Section 12: “The State recognizes the sanctity of family life and shall protect and strengthen the family as a basic autonomous social institution. It shall equally protect the life of the mother and the life of the unborn from conception.”

It is argued that this means abortion can be performed to save the life of the mother, but this has not been taken to the Supreme Court yet — showing how unwilling society is to consider even the thought of aborting a child.

And yet according to estimates, more than half a million abortions are done in the Philippines every year — usually under unsafe conditions.

About 1,000 Filipino women die from complications, which contributes to the nation’s high maternal mortality rate (data from guttmacher.org).

The topic of abortion, in fact, is taboo in the Philippines, and while I wanted to write about it in the context of human rights in the country (you’ll understand towards the end of this article), I didn’t have the reason to do it.

But then the topic entered the national conversation in recent weeks, at least on social media (the traditional media seemed oblivious to it). I won’t repeat what the buzz is all about (you can just google it), but what I found interesting was the universal condemnation of abortion from Filipinos.

Let me start with a call made late last year to boycott Yellow Cab Pizza over a photo showing some crew members doing the “Duterte fist.” In a petition at change.org, the group said the restaurant, through its crew, was endorsing President Rodrigo Duterte and his policies, “including his very vocal denouncement of human rights as evidenced in his endorsement of murder in the name of his so-

called War on Drugs.”

Now people are free to boycott anything and anyone they want, and to call on others to do the same. But they have to be prepared for the often inevitable problem of finding out that they are also endorsing or patronizing someone or something that’s equally deplorable, if not even more so.

For example, I am willing to bet that while all of those who want to boycott Yellow Cab are against alleged state-sponsored extrajudicial killings (EJKs), none of them support abortion.

Most Filipinos, after all, believe that life begins at conception, and any measure that even remotely resembles the legalization of abortion will never get passed as it is seen as murder.

But most of the Yellow Cab boycotters are probably unaware that many of the US-based companies they patronize are directly involved in abortion through their financial contribution to Planned Parenthood, the largest single provider of abortions in the United States.

So if those who want to boycott Yellow Cab are to be consistent, they should also

boycott companies that support abortion. That means not wearing Nike shoes, not drinking Pepsi, not using Microsoft Windows, not drinking Starbucks coffee, and so on and so forth. Unless, of course, they are willing to say that a drug pusher has more right to live than an unborn child.

This is why I don’t respond to a call to boycott something. It forces me to consider all the other persons/things I’m patronizing/ supporting, and that would ultimately lead to paralysis because that’s all I’d be doing day in and day out. I just tell myself that all persons, all companies, all organizations have reasons for doing what they’re doing, and I go on with my life.

So before we go off on a crusade to shut down certain companies, we had better look at those we support first. We may be shocked at what they are backing.

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

Year of the Fire Rooster Kung Hei Fat Choi! Happy New Year!

The Year of the Fire Rooster in Chinese astrology starts on January 28, 2017 and ends on February 15, 2018.

It is predicted that the new Year of the Fire Rooster will bring innovative challenges and new opportunities that were scant in the past fidgety Monkey year.

We must all get ready to embrace the Fire Rooster. With fire as his element, the Rooster year will be characterized by vigour, enthusiasm and confidence. On the negative side, the year of the Rooster may be unpredictable, melodramatic and edgy.

The Year of the Rooster will be dominant. Mediocrity will have no place if one wants to achieve a goal. This year, we must all aspire to look our best – physically, mentally and emotionally. Love, money and success will come to those who stick to sensible and tested methods to guarantee success, rather than uncertain speculations.

Year of the Fire Rooster for western zodiac signs: Aries (March 21-April 19) You will shine. You will be hard to ignore. You are a tireless worker and you can inspire others around you. But when negative, you can be a full-fledged dictator.

This can be a very happy, action-

packed year if you are open to new things. Go easy and steady.

Financial gains may be coming your way.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Your friends and associates will be wise to take you seriously.

You can be very accurate and also a quick-thinker that puts you ahead of schedule. You’ll find yourself working hard; the more you work hard in the Year of the Rooster, the more you will get in return.

Acknowledgment and rewards will be yours. These gains will lighten whatever burdens you face in your private life.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Try to keep your sunny disposition and optimism because these will comfort you in time of crisis. Your friends will seek your company because you help them.

Do not be very sensitive about criticism. Try to be gracious and accept any opposition to your ideas.

Your family and your home will bring you great joy and happiness.

Try not to be upset at setbacks, it will slow you down and stop you from progressing this year.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) You are a cautious, diplomatic, competent and very warm person.

Keep it up this year. Be supportive but do not be abrasive if your help is not accepted instantly. This

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Columnists/Contributors DALE BURGOS JB CASARES ANNE CAPRICE B. CLAROS YVANNE DANDAN DENNIS FLORES 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 ROLDAN SEVILLANO, JR. RON URBANO VALEN VERGARA KATHRYN WEBER SHERYLL D. ZAMORA Youth Contributors Aksyon Ng Ating Kabataan (ANAK) Philippine Correspondents NESTOR S. BARCO CRISTY FERMIN RICKY GALLARDO JON JOAQUIN AMBETH R. OCAMPO

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will be an interesting year. You will be tempted to get into risky investments. The error will be not saying “No.” Try not going over your budget. Protect your money.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) You have a vibrant personality.

You always demand to be heard yet you hardly listen to others – it’s time to do your part this year. Once you have simplified your focus,

you will find equilibrium in your life. Focus and do the best you can, and monetary rewards will be yours. Friends will help you keep the energy going but don’t let your home life suffer due to negligence.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You love to learn new things and this makes you very knowledgeable in your chosen See ROOSTER p16

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JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

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He said, she said: couples arguing Dear Ate Anna, My wife and I often disagree.

In fact, we argue a lot and sometimes it is about silly things.

I am tired of the arguments. What can we do?

Benny Dear Benny, Disagreements are a normal part of any relationship and married couples fight about many things. Some of the most common issues are money, sex, housework, children, jobs, annoying habits, communication, time spent watching TV or on the computer, leisure activities, the in-laws etc.

Because you and your wife are two unique individuals, it’s natural for you to have different ideas about these kinds of issues.

It’s important for both of you to accept and respect these different ways of looking at the world.

As well, if you keep your minds open to listening to each other, a disagreement does not always have to be a bad thing.

In fact, some couples say that it’s possible for an argument to make them feel closer to each other. An argument is an opportunity to share feelings and thoughts, but it needs to be done

in a respectful way. If a couple is able to reach a compromise, the process helps both partners understand each other better. This is how intimacy between two people reaches a deeper level. As well, the “making up” after a fight (whether it is physical intimacy or other ways of making up) sometimes helps the couple feel better about themselves and their relationship.

Also, remember that it is not the argument, itself, that causes problems; it is how a couple argues. When you fight, fight fair.

It’s important to stay focused and stick to the issue at hand. Don’t bring up old hurts or grudges when they’re not relevant to the issue you are arguing about. Don’t attack your spouse’s character or personality. In other words: no name-calling, criticizing, or judging. Also remember that you are not a mind reader; so don’t make assumptions about what your partner is thinking.

Listening and communicating are important; clarify what you think your wife is saying. And give her the opportunity to correct that impression if you misunderstood.

If the argument is getting too heated, take a “time out” to calm down and cool off.

Benny, in your letter you mention that you argue a lot with your wife. Even though you have the right to disagree with your wife, it doesn’t always have to cause an argument. This can create an unhealthy pattern that can be hurtful and damaging to your relationship. It might be helpful to reflect on why you fight: Do you fight because you want to win or be in control? Or is it to actually resolve issues?

Remember, your relationship with your wife is a partnership,

not a competition. Most of the time the important thing is not who wins or loses, or who’s right or wrong. The more important thing is to work toward a solution.

In other words, don’t fight to win, fight for your marriage relationship.

As well, try to work toward being the first person to apologize. It actually shows that you care more about reconciling than being right. And remind yourself that your wife also cares

about reconciling. If both of you didn’t care about a resolution, you wouldn’t be fighting for one.

Making changes in a relationship can be challenging.

This website might help you: www.helpguide.org/articles/ relationships/conflict-resolutionskills.htm If you are finding yourselves stuck and unable to change old habits, you could try talking to a trusted friend or religious leader, or go to a counsellor for some

professional advice.

Best wishes, 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.

st. mary’s academy information evening JANUARY 31, 2017 AT 7:00 P.M.

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Educating young women spirit, mind and body

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Family class sponsorship changes There appears to be one enduring truth about immigration applications: change. This is now true about the sponsorship of spouses, common-law partners, conjugal partners, including dependent children and dependent children themselves. The changes announced in December 2016 remove the old distinction between sponsorship of persons outside Canada and those inside Canada.

At least on this point IRCC has simplified things. The same forms are applicable whether you sponsor an eligible family member who is currently inside the country or those who reside abroad.

Family class applications must now be submitted under the following four categories: spouse (including dependent children); common-law partner (including children); conjugal partner (including children); and dependent children. The four separate categories correspond to four different checklists for each with requirements for forms and

supporting documentation set forth: 1. Document Checklist Spouse Including Dependent Children (IMM5533); 2.

Document Checklist Common-Law Partner Including Dependent Children (IMM5589); 3.

Document Checklist Conjugal Partner Including Dependent Children (IMM5629); and 4.

Document Checklist Dependent Child (IMM5534).

There are things that have not changed from the previous family application stream such as the requirement for a completed original Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM1344) and proof of payment of required processing fees and also the recommended payment for the Right of Permanent Resident fees. The applicant must still submit a completed Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM5406) and Additional Family Information (IMM5406) along with copies of civil documents, valid

passports, and status in Canada if applicable.

There are also things that have changed, such as the removal of sponsor or sponsored person questionnaires, as the well the provision of police certificates and medical certificates. It is now optional for applicants to submit original police certificates as part of the sponsorship. Or, they can wait until these documents are requested along with a validated Schedule A Background/ Declaration (IMM5669). The proof of examination by a panel physician is no longer required as part of the sponsorship submission but will be requested later in the process. However, there is a new form that must be included with the submission (where required) – the lengthy Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation (IMM5532), which takes the place of the sponsor and sponsored person questionnaire and financial evaluation forms of the past.

The new system still requires supporting documentation

regarding the sponsor’s status as well as copies of the civil documents, passports, photos of the applicant in accordance with country specific requirements. The major change is in the identification of supporting documents required to demonstrate the bona fide nature of the relationship between sponsor and sponsored person. IRCC has actually provided items for each of the four categories of items they expect to be included with the submission.

My first impression of the changes is that family class sponsorship has been simplified, especially by removing the differences between sponsorship of family members inside Canada and those from outside Canada.

In the case of the former, this includes a formal option for the inclusion of an Open Work Permit application. Otherwise, applicants and sponsors alike must be aware of the questions asked of each on the new Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation (IMM5532). This form and the

documentation attached to the file will go a long way to determining how IRCC rules on the claimed relationship. All interested parties including practitioners in the field are challenged to submit all sponsorships according to the new rules and forms. If you do not understand the changes or the requirements and need assistance, then my recommendation is that you can always go to an immigration lawyer or licensed immigration consultant. Change comes with extra work and hopefully the changes in family class immigration will also come with reduced backlogs and faster processing times.

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 204-227-0292.

E-mail: mscott.ici@gmail.com.

Luck running out?

The feng shui importance of updating your home In a world where change is constant, and sometimes, moment by moment, the idea of staying in the same place, in the same relationships, the same patterns of our lives, has the comfort of familiarity. There’s even a saying that it’s easier with the devil you know than the devil you don’t.

That’s what makes change so hard; we don’t know what to expect, or if our efforts will pay off.

But if we don’t change, life becomes hard… and then harder still.

That’s what happens when we keep our houses in a time warp, like a museum diorama of our lives that depicts a dayto-day sameness. We must have change, energy, and invigoration in our lives, our relationships, our clothing and style – and in our houses.

It’s like when we fall into the “uniform” trap of wearing the same kind of clothes day after

day (yoga pants?); over time, we feel stale and like our energy is draining. A quick update to our closets can often get us out of that rut!

It’s the same thing with our houses.

Having no change over time finds us stagnant in our lives. If we don’t update and invigorate our houses, we not only feel stuck, our luck starts to run out like sand in an hourglass. Once the sand of chi has all run through, there’s a vacuum.

That’s yin energy.

After a home has become yin, life becomes more difficult, energy wanes, money suffers, and health problems crop up, relationships end or become strained. But when the house is kept up to date, and chi is enlivened and refreshed, it enlivens and refreshes our lives.

How to update your house Most of the time you don’t really need to make a lot of

changes. With just typical living, you’ll usually update the house, repainting a room here or there, adding new flooring or changing up the landscaping.

Occasionally, though, some houses seem trapped in their 1970, 1980, or 1990 selves and therein lay the problem.

When your house doesn’t move ahead, you don’t move ahead.

Your home, like feng shui and time, is an ever-changing thing.

When the change began from Period 7 to Period 8 in 2004, someone who didn’t update their house wouldn’t notice any problems at first, and life would probably just go on the same as it had before. But slowly, over time, the backward slide begins creating financial difficulties, health difficulties, losses, separation, accidents and complications of all manners.

In fact, the energy can become dangerous creating disastrous problems, especially since we’re just over half way through Period 8 and moving now toward Period 9 in 2024.

If you haven’t updated your home since before 2004, you may be experiencing the problems noted above. That means it’s time to update your house by

repainting or replacing the front door, redecorating, doing a deep cleaning, re-painting or landscaping your house.

But these kinds of activities are ones that you should do frequently regardless. Even moving and rearranging the furniture feels fresh and invigorates the house – and your life.

See FENG SHUI p7

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

FENG SHUI...

From page 6 Keep your home fresh, clean, updated and energized and your life will respond accordingly with invigorated luck, fresh opportunity, happy relationships and vibrant health!

FENG SHUI Q&A Question: A single friend of mine doesn’t believe in feng shui but has miserable luck in her life. Her birthday is coming up. Is there something I can give her for her birthday to help her attract better luck in her life?

Answer: Aren’t you a great friend?

She’s lucky to have you, that’s for sure. Sometimes we want good

PILIPINO EXPRESS fortune for others more than we do for ourselves. That’s especially true of our children. Some people are closed off and not open and receptive to good fortune. I’ve learned that when we constantly expect the worst in life, the Universe gives it to us. Never ask, “What else can happen?” because something else certainly will!

Back to your question.

I’d buy something for your friend that you like because, as my mother used to tell me, if you like it, your friend will probably like it too. Buy her something pretty with auspicious symbols. I especially like butterflies because they represent a rebirth and they’re also a wonderful symbol of love – and since you say she’s single, it might just be the symbol she

needs to attract a special someone.

It might also help your friend “turn over a new leaf.” I hope so. She’s already got a good start with you as her friend.

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!

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

The year that was 2016 The year 2016 saw the election of new set of executive officers comprised of eight members (President, VP-Technical, VPCommunications, VP-Finance and four board members) for the Filipino Members ChapterEngineers Geoscientists Manitoba (FMC). I was trusted to lead the chapter as President and with the help of the new set of officers, volunteers, supporters and members, we were able to maintain the chapter’s objectives, while also accomplishing new things.

Here’s a roundup of what had transpired over the past year: The year started off with the Annual General Meeting and Technical Presentations, which also included the presentation of the newly elected officers.

In June, we participated in Philippine Heritage Week organized by the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba (PHCM).

Our members

commemorated and appreciated Philippine’s independence and culture through various activities.

This also allowed our chapter to be introduced and interact with other organizations.

In the summer, a combination of a family picnic and a golf tournament were held for members, families and friends to get out in the sun, network, and enjoy a round of golf.

In late October, the chapter engaged in community service by helping out at Winnipeg Harvest. And in this same month, we launched our own website, where the public can get to know us better. Visit us at www.fmcegm.ca In early November, the first Engineering Credential Recognition Process Orientation was organized, for the benefit of Filipino newcomers with an engineering background and those who have yet to undergo the credential recognition

process. There were almost 200 participants at the event.

In early December, our annual holiday party included a fundraising event not only for our bursary program but also to be able to give back to the community by handing over the rest of the proceeds to a chosen charity. At this event, we awarded four bursaries to our student members and recognized our new engineering interns and

professional engineers.

To cap off the year, the executive officers headed over to Winnipeg Harvest to hand over the remaining proceeds from the fundraising event.

It was indeed a busy year for the chapter, but with the selfless dedication of time, muscles and brains of all officers and volunteers, each event was deemed a success.

I have no crystal ball to

foresee what this year will bring, but I am optimistic that greater things are yet to come for the chapter.

Ethel Clemente-Fernandez is a professional engineer registered in the province of Manitoba. She is an active member of the Filipino Members Chapter - Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Manitoba (FMC-APEGM).

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

KEVIN...

From page 1 it is that I see the benefit of hosting free immigration workshops every time I go. I like to promote and assist wherever I can for people to come to Canada, and in particular Manitoba – especially when it helps people back here in Winnipeg, which is most often the case.

Manitoba needs immigration.

In fact, if it were not for immigration, our population would have declined over the past 10plus years. Today there are several provinces that are suffering from a decreasing population and they are now appealing to Ottawa for help; they want more immigrants.

It is easy for me to say that Canada needs the Philippines more than the Philippines needs Canada, and we in Manitoba are in a great position to capitalize on that need.

I do not meet with Canadian embassy people every time I go to Philippines, but given my role in Ottawa and because I was with Cindy, who is now the MLA for Burrows, I thought it would be a good idea to do so this time. The immigration talks went well but for me but it was the meeting with our new Ambassador that really impressed me. We share in the belief that 2017 will be an incredible year for both countries to explore the potential relationship we could have. This is due to a number of reasons including major international events that will be taking place this year where both countries will be present. I hope to expand on these events in future stories.

Along with the workshops, I met with elected officials.

Even though it was the holiday season, I was able to formally meet with two politicians – one was a special guest just last year here in Winnipeg. Vice Governor Daniel Fernando from Bulacan invited me to his home in Malolos where we had a wonderful meal, and talked about how to promote stronger ties between Canada and the Philippines.

The municipal Mayor of Guimba, Nueva Ecija, Jose R. Dizon hosted me overnight in his home. During the day Cindy and I hosted our fourth immigration workshop, which was conducted in a public hall right behind the Guimba City Hall complex.

Prior to the workshop, the mayor gave us a wonderful tour of the Municipal grounds including inside City Hall. MLA for River Heights, Jon Gerrard joined us that day for the tour. It is the first time I visited a city Hall where there were fewer than one hundred people around. In all of my previous trips I found that City Hall facilities are

PILIPINO EXPRESS usually packed with people. One of the benefits of visiting during the holiday season is the ease of getting around in the mornings.

For my daughter Cindy and me, 2017 got off to a great start.

We brought in the New Year from the rooftop of a small resort in San Mateo, Rizal. The fireworks started around 10:00 p.m. and when I went to sleep at around 1:00 a.m. I could still hear some fireworks going off. For supper on December 31 we ate freshly cooked Philippine style lechon over coals. The skin was incredibly delicious. Whenever I go to the Philippines food is always a big part of the program as I enjoy the unique tastes of wherever I visit. I have not had the time yet to go to the new Jollibee here in Winnipeg (the first one in Canada) but in the Philippines, there is no doubt that Jollibee dominates the fast food industry. Cindy ate there often.

Cindy and I did a lot more than just work and eat. For the first time I was able to actually drive a tricycle with two passengers. It turned out my daughter’s driving was somewhat better than mine.

But in fairness, she does ride a motorcycle here in Winnipeg.

The last time I visited Nueva Ecija, I had a ride in a cart pulled by a huge water buffalo or kalabaw. Well this time I actually rode one, no saddle but I did have a blanket. I was a bit nervous – after all those horns are real. During our time there we travelled by MRT/LRT, Jeepney, aircon taxi

and other modes of transportation.

The bottom line was we were able to get around, and that we did.

No visit to the Philippines would be complete without checking out the markets and the Mall of Asia. We were into January and the Mall of Asia still had a wonderful Christmas Display, which was attracting hundreds of people. For me, as nice as the malls are, I much prefer the street markets where people are often crammed shoulder to shoulder and the challenge of negotiations is perfected. I am always amazed by how prices fluctuate depending on the skill of the negotiator and the willingness of him or her to just walk away. I find it is always best to walk and talk for the first hour or so before you buy anything; it helps warm you up to the challenge and you get a better appreciation on price points Last year I became one of the two chairs of the Canada Philippine Parliamentary Friendship Group. Over the past number of months I have seen first hand the Prime Minister’s personal interest in the Philippines and the expressions of interest from no fewer than 30 members of Parliament. It is my hope that with my past experiences and in my current role in the government, 2017 will be a good year with respect to strengthening the relationship between two great nations. (Reported to the Pilipino Express by Kevin Lamoureux, MP for Winnipeg North)

The famous Jollibee

PAGE 9

With the Mayor of Guimba, Nueva Ecija, Jose R. Dizon

With Bulacan Vice Governor Daniel Fernando

PAGE 10

PAUL...

From page 1 and album launch on November 26th, 2016 at the Portage Avenue Church. This was the third of his solo concerts after his sold-out shows last April and October of 2015.

This most recent show, according to Paul, was a dream that was years in the making.

“My mom and I have wanted to do a Christmas concert for a long time. This year it became a reality. Another goal that has been realized is my album launching during the show. I am very grateful to everyone who has been instrumental in making all these a reality.”

Paul, who has been singing since he was four years old, considers singing as something natural to him and is something that he has always loved doing.

His experiences with Canada’s Got Talent in 2012 and the World Championship of the Performing Arts (WCOPA) in 2015 were among the highlights of his musical journey, so far.

“Knowing that my music brings pleasure and joy to others makes me feel very good as a performer. It is my belief that most of the time, it is not the stage or venue that matters, but the purpose of the production. The show this year is a small step in using my music for a greater cause than just pure entertainment.”

The Concert For A Cause was special for the beneficiary school as well; about 100 of their junior high students got involved as performers or volunteers. The students were able to showcase their talents through a jazz band, dancing and singing.

PILIPINO EXPRESS Student Hser Htee said, “The show really brought out what General Wolfe is about – diversity.

I was so happy to be one of the performers because it gave me an opportunity to show my love for singing. And the computers would really help us a lot with our upcoming projects, research, inquiry projects and, especially the EduFair.”

Likewise, Louis Salonga considers the experience an enjoyable and exciting one. “It was a perfect night of celebration!

You could feel that the community spirit was loud and bright. That night our different talents brought us together, and it was a night we won’t soon forget. The new computers that we received from the event will aid us in class both academically and practically makes our studying easier.”

Paul, who is a Special Education Resource Teacher at General Wolfe School couldn’t help feeling proud of these students. “I hope that through this opportunity, they will feel empowered and motivated to keep pursuing their talents and goals,” Paul said.

English teacher Heather Gowler says she and the other staff members are very fortunate to work in such a vibrant community with so many talented kids.

“Paul Ong’s performance and the showcased talents of our students in our Arts program was a perfect way to celebrate the festive season.

And the mobile lab will benefit all of the students. It was a magical evening.”

Many school divisions include a laptop in the list of school supplies that are given to students once they start the school year.

But in schools in the inner city like

General Wolfe, which has about 450 students in Grades 7 to 9, many of the students cannot afford a laptop, said teacher Mario Cueto.

“Technology enhances learning across all subject areas from Math to Science, not to mention the amount and speed of information available to students. Having 15 laptops configured into a pod will provide more opportunity for technology and information that our classrooms can access. It is truly a great gift.”

Paul is hoping that his Concert For A Cause will be an annual community event celebrated towards the last quarter of the year, featuring youth and local performers advocating for a good cause benefitting the community.

Further into the future, he would like to build a foundation through his music.

“I think that aside from entertainment, the bigger purpose of my music is to use it for more meaningful and relevant purposes.

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017 Making a difference, touching people’s lives, empowering others and contributing to the community.”

For more about Paul Ong and his projects, you can connect with him on Facebook or through Paul Ong Productions.

Paul Ong

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Pintasan man nang maghapon at magdamag ng mga kalaban ang pagsusuot ng two-piece swimsuit ni Nadine Lustre ay wala nang magiging saysay iyon.

Napatunayan na ng dalaga na may karapatan siyang magpakita ng kaniyang katawan sa publiko.

Napakaganda ng hubog ng katawan ni Nadine, halos perfect ang distribusyon ng mga bahagi ng kaniyang katawan sa kabuuan, puwedeng-puwede siyang makipagrampahan sa swimsuit competition ng mga beauty queen.

Pinagmasdan naming mabuti ang retrato ng dalaga habang kapiranggot na tela lang ang nagtatakip sa kaniyang dibdib at maselang bahagi sa ibaba.

Napakaganda.

Unang mapapansin ang kaniyang tiyan na walang kabilbil-bilbil. Mayroon mang mapapansing nakaumbok ay muscles na iyon, bahagi ng kaniyang pagdyi-gym, may abs si Nadine.

Kapag maganda ang hubog ng katawan ng isang babae ay hindi mahalay tingnan ang pagsusuot niya ng two-piece swimsuit.

Magiging hindi lang maganda ang ganoon kapag punggok at may katabaang babae ang nagpakita ng kaniyang katawan.

Biro ng isang lalaking tagahanga ni Nadine, “Napakasuwerte naman sa kaniya ni James Reid! Maganda na ang girlfriend niya, sobrang sexy pa!

Bigyan na lang kaya natin ng

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

pamasahe si James para umuwi muna siya sa Australia?” nagaapiran pang idera ng mga male fans ni Nadine Lustre.

Mayroon na kayang nagbigay ng ideya sa young actress na puwedeng-puwede siyang maging kinatawan ng ating bayan sa mga beauty pageant?

Maganda, sexy, matalino.

Kumpletos recados ang mga katangian ni Nadine Lustre. Kaya sa mga namimintas sa dalaga, mamatay kayo sa inggit, Spell I lang ‘yan! *** Panahon ngayon ng pagkilala sa talento ng mag-inang Sylvia Sanchez at Arjo Atayde. Kinilala na ng ibang award-giving body ang kanilang kakayahan, pero may isang entablado pa silang kailangang akyatan para tanggapin ang kanilang parangal, ang unang pagbibigay-parangal ng GEMS (The Guild Of Educators, Mentors And Students) na gaganapin sa March 1.

Tatanggapin ni Arjo Atayde ang best actor para sa napakagaling nitong pagganap sa seryeng Ang Probinsiyano at si Sylvia Sanchez naman ang pararangalang best actress sa pinag-uusapan niyang pagganap sa seryeng The Greatest Love ng ABS-CBN. Nasubaybayan namin ang seryeng pinagbibidahan ni Coco Martin, saludo kami sa pag-arte na parang hindi umaarteng ipinakikita ni Arjo, napakaepektibo nito bilang See CRISTY p15

• Nadine Lustre – Maganda, sexy, matalino, kumpletos recados • Sylvia Sanchez at Arjo Atayde – Kikilalanin ang galing sa sining sa GEMS • Alden Richards – Kakambal ng kasikatan ang intriga • Nora Aunor – Humingi ng tawad sa INC • Mocha Uson – Nanumpa na sa MTRBC at nangakong ibang-iba na siya ngayon • Joshua Phillip – Sa poder ni James Yap at Michela nag-Bagong Taon • Kris Aquino – Nakipagkita kay Mayor Herbert pero wala lang • Sharon Cuneta – Nagkamaling tinawag si Jed Madela ng Jedda

Nadine Lustre

Mocha Uson

Arci Muñoz

Jessy Mendiola

Coleen Garcia

Alden Richards

Nora Aunor

Sylvia Sanches & Arjo Atayde

Herbert Bautista

Kris Aquino, Josh & Bimby

Star Cinema opens 2017 with Extra Service Star Cinema and Skylight Films open 2017 with a bang as the sexy action-comedy film, Extra Service, brings together three of today’s hottest Kapamilya actresses Arci Muñoz, Jessy Mendiola and Coleen Garcia.

The movie, helmed by Chris Martinez, the director behind the hit comedy films Kimmy Dora and the Kyemeng Prequel and writer of the two installments of Ang Babae sa Septic Tank, multiplies the excitement as it presents Munoz, Garcia and Mendiola in a movie that shows that girl power can defy the odds.

Extra Service, written by the writer of the highestgrossing local film in history The Super Parental Guardians Alpha Habon, is a story about three female ex-convicts Aw (Muñoz), Em (Garcia) and Gee (Mendiola), who due to their criminal records, have a hard time finding a job.

Faced with this dilemma, Aw, Em and Gee have no other choice but to work in a spa as masseuses. However, See EXTRA p15

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Jed Madela, Sharon Cuneta & Gary Valenciano

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 13

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

From cut-outs to coding, a Balmoral Hall School education gives your daughter the foundation she needs to make a difference in the world.

We offer 3D printing, robotics, and coding instruction beginning in Junior School, a visual and performing arts curriculum that includes dance, and a variety of athletic activities.

Visit our Open House on Saturday, January 21 from 12 – 4 p.m. to learn more, or call (204) 784-1600 to schedule a personalized tour today. www.balmoralhall.com

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 15

Awra named first weekly winner on Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids Many viewers nationwide tuned in to the premiere of Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids, as the program’s cute performers impersonated local and international music icons.

Breakout Child Star Awra Briguela was named the edition’s first weekly winner, winning 24 points, for his spoton impersonation of Dionesia Pacquaio. He not only impressed

EXTRA...

From page 12 unknown to their clients, theirs is only a day job because at night, they become secret agents: Aw is Kapitana, Em is Maldita, and Gie is Henya.

“When you ask for ‘extra service’ you are actually asking for their service as secret agents,” explains Habon about the title of the film.

Using their inner strength, anchoring on their individual experiences and coming together as one team, Aw, Em and Gee try to achieve their mission. Muñoz, Garcia and Mendiola underwent mixed martial arts training, under coach Erwin Tagle, for their intensive fight scenes in the film.

“Ang daming eksena na talagang pinaghirapan namin, pinaghirapan nilang lahat especially nitong tatlong girls namin,” Martinez said about the lead stars. “Seryoso sila sa pinagdaanan nilang fight scenes, but at the same time extra rin ang pagpapatawa.”

While it was not a walk in

CRISTY...

From page 12 nagkokontrabida sa kuwento.

Sayang, pasilip-silip lang kami sa seryeng pinagbibidahan ni Sylvia, kasabay kasi iyon ng aming programa sa radyo kaya puro magagandang kuwento na lang tungkol sa galing niya bilang aktres ang naririnig namin.

Sabi ng tagapamuno ng GEMS na si Norman Mauro Llaguno, “Malayo ang agwat nilang magina sa mga runners-up nila.

Tamang pagpili dahil magagaling naman talaga silang artista. May pinagmanahan si Arjo.”

Marami pang darating na parangal sa mag-ina, iba-ibang grupo pa ang magpapahalaga sa kanilang talento, nakikita namin kung paano nila mahalin ang kanilang trabaho kaya naman minamahal din sila pabalik ng kanilang propesyon.

Parang kailan lang iyon noong kasa-kasama lang ni Sylvia Sanchez ang guwapo at tisoy niyang anak na si Arjo, ngayon ay kinikilala na ang husay nito sa pagarte, hindi nga naman mamumunga ng santol ang mangga. *** Kakambal ng kasikatan ang mga intriga. Natural, kapag sikat ang artista ay para siyang isdang lumalangoy sa aquarium na sinusundan ng tingin ng lahat, pero

jurors Sharon Cuneta, Gary Valenciano, and Ogie Alcasid, but also the online world, where the video of his performance trended and was widely shared.

Awra won P50,000 and an additional P50,000 to be given to his chosen charity, Harvesters’ Foundation, Inc. Following him in the ranking were dance sweetheart AC Bonifacio as Britney Spears (19 the park, Mendiola says she welcomed the film because it fulfilled her dream of doing an action film. “This is something new. Matagal ko na kasi gustong mag-action and nabigyang buhay naman siya,” she says.

As for Garcia, she admits being hesitant in accepting the project because she hasn’t done a comedy before. “Hindi talaga ako nagko-comedy, wala akong experience diyan. Mahiyain pa ako in front of people,” she explains. “Pero nang nalaman kong si Direk Chris ang director nakampante ako kasi magaling naman talaga siyang director,” Garcia ends. Despite the fact that Extra Service is a sexy comedyaction film, Muñoz, Garcia, and Mendiola all agree that their film’s most important lesson is the value of team work.

“Kung wala ‘yong isa, hindi rin kami tatayo. May it be family or work or friendship, a team is a team,” Mendiola elaborates.

The film also stars Tessie Tomas, Carmi Martin, Ejay Falcon, Enzo Pineda and Vin Abrenica. depende pa rin ang sitwasyon sa klase ng mga taong nanglalaglag sa kaniya.

May mga taong wala nang alam tungkol sa linya ng kagandahang-asal ay parang wala pang kunsensiya, iyon ang mga taong walang magandang pagpapalang tinatanggap sa buhay, kaya pinag-iinitan ang mga taong nagtatagumpay.

Biktima ng ganoong klase ng mga tao si Alden Richards.

Palibhasa’y sikat na sikat siya at tumatanggap ng mga papuri tungkol sa kaniyang natural na kabaitan ay hindi iyon matanggap ng mga taong may ibang gusto kaya pinipilit siyang ibagsak.

Sagrado ang pagkamatay ng ating mga mahal sa buhay.

Nirerespeto natin ang kanilang pagkawala at palagi natin silang inaalala may okasyon man o wala.

Sa pagsigla ng career ni Alden, sa napakagandang suwerteng dumating sa kaniyang buhay at career ay palagi niyang naaalala ang pumanaw niyang ina, nakapanghihinayang nga naman kasi na hindi na nasaksihan ng mommy niya ang magandang kapalarang dumating sa kaniya.

Pero may mga taong walang kunsensiya, ang pagmamahal ni Alden sa namayapa niyang ina ay ginagawang isyu, ginagamit daw ng Pambansang Bae ang pagkamatay ng kaniyang mommy See CRISTY p18

points), big shot belter Elha Nympha as Beyoncé (18 points), and talented cutie Sam Shoaf as Bruno Mars (17 points). Getting 12 points each were bibong child wonder Alonzo Muhlach as Harry Styles of One Direction (12 points), musikerong charmer Justin Alva as Michael Jackson, young diva ng masa Lyca Gairanod as Katy Perry, and daytime princess Xia Vigor as Selena Gomez.

Others have a chance to improve their rankings because in the show, no one will be eliminated, as their scores are tallied up each week.

Don’t miss the next performances of Awra as Daniel Padilla, AC as Sandara Park, Elha as Sharon Cuneta, Sam as Alicia Keys, Alonzo as Rico J. Puno, Justin as Adam Levine, Lyca as Lady Gaga, and Xia as Taylor Swift.

Don’t miss Your Face Sounds Familiar: Kids, Saturday and Sunday night on ABS-CBN or on ABS-CBN HD (SkyCable ch 167). For program updates, like www.facebook.com/yourfaceph, or follow @YourFacePH on Twitter and Instagram.

Awra Briguela

PAGE 16

PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Canada’s immigration doors reopened to humanity In October 2015 then aspiring Prime Minister Justin Trudeau earned the trust of the Canadian electorate with his platform for the middle class that included a dozenand-a-half specific promises on immigration under six headings: diversity in government, family reunification, international students and temporary residents, foreign remittances, hiring caregivers, and refugees. Upon being sworn into office the following November 4, the newly installed prime minister mandated his then Minister John McCallum to reopen Canada’s doors to regular immigrants and refugees.

Wrote the Prime Minister: “As Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRC) your overarching goal will be to reopen Canada’s doors to welcome those who want to contribute to our country’s success…and those seeking refuge from conflict and war.”

What a welcome contrast to messages of fear that divides a citizenry and weakens the bond of citizenship, nationally and globally!

A year hence this past November, the current majority federal government had had a year to act on its immigration promises.

In observance of this anniversary the Canadian Filipino Net (CFN) – new website created by Vancouver-based Maple Bamboo Network Society (MBNS) – asked a natural question: What progress has the federal government made on those promises?

To seek answers, MBNS President Eleanor Guerrero Campbell engaged yours truly in a series of conversations that have since been serialized as interviewformat articles in CFN (November and December 2016; January 2017).

Since holding the government to account for progress made on political commitments requires fairness, objectivity and, consequentially, due diligence on the part of the evaluator, I reviewed the 2015 election commitments of the Liberal Party and compared them with the Prime Minister’s mandate letter of November 4, 2015 to the IRC Minister, the Speech From the Throne of December 4, 2015, and with the 2015 and 2016 Annual Reports on Immigration to Parliament. I searched, too, for news releases from the Minister’s office and for relevant news reports and notices that might have been published in the Canada Gazette.

Still in the early part of the second year of its four-year mandate, the government has translated, wholly for the most part, its words into deeds. Even on the issue of foreign remittances of which we have yet to see progress, we could take assurance from the Prime Minister’s marching orders to his IRC Minister: “Our (election) platform guides our government. Over the course of our four-year mandate, I expect us to deliver on all of our commitments.”

Progress to date is auspicious.

On the social dimension, family and family reunification have become front and centre with the number of family sponsorship applications doubled, the processing times accelerated, the total family class level for 2017 projected to increase by five per cent, the maximum age for dependent children set to increase from 19 to 22, and the burdensome $1,000 Labour Market Impact Assessment fee for Canadian families looking for caregivers eliminated.

Further progress on the social dimension includes achievement of diversity in government adoption of a new governmentwide, merit-based appointment process to government institutions, boards, agencies, quasi-judicial tribunals and administrative

bodies. Protection of caregivers is being developed, by allowing them to change employers in the case of bad relations or abuse.

On the economic dimension, the 2017 immigration level for the economic class is set to increase by seven per cent. The Minister has acknowledged that international students “enrich the learning environment within Canadian educational institutions, …make a major economic contribution, … are well prepared for the Canadian labour market, and can integrate quickly into Canadian society, primarily due to their Canadian educational credentials.” This acknowledgement is notable coming as it is from the Minister who has pledged to “make it easier for them to come in under Express Entry.”

While it now appears barriers to immigration will be eased for international students, there has not been a similar acknowledgement for all temporary foreign workers.

Hence, I ask, if temporary foreign workers are qualified enough to come and help during Canada’s acute labour needs, why should they not be qualified enough to be given similar preference as international students and allowed to pursue their dream of a better life in Canada?

On the humanitarian dimension, the theme was

exemplified by Canada’s resolve and success to resettle 25,000 Syrian refugees “through immediate government sponsorship and work with private sponsors.” It was truly a great achievement to swiftly resettle in Canada this magnitude of refugees from one war-torn homeland. Many were moved by the government’s action. I devoted one of my article to the subject last year (“Syrian Refugee Crisis: A Test of Canada’s Humanitarian Greatness,” Pilipino Express, March 2016).

Indeed, the Prime Minister’s resolve at the height of the Syrian refugee crisis to take on a major role was a humanitarian act par excellence – supported by the great majority of Canadians, received with deep gratitude by the refugees, and duly acknowledged by global leaders. It is this quality of leadership that truly inspires a nation and should inspire many about Canada’s immigration policy.

Hon. Dr. Rey D. Pagtakhan, P.C. – a retired lung specialist and professor of child health and former Member of Parliament, Parliamentary Secretary to Prime Minister Jean Chretien, and cabinet minister – serves as a volunteer on the Advisory Council of Immigration Partnership Winnipeg.

A very brief history of pageants in the Philippines The lights, beads, sparkle, magnificent costumes, flowing ball gowns, blinding smiles, contoured faces, sexy swimsuits. It’s Miss Universe time.

In just a couple weeks, on January 30 (January 29, 6:00 p.m. Winnipeg time), the annual beauty pageant will be airing its million-dollar show. Contestants from almost every country in the world will have trained for the competition for months – more likely, mentally preparing for it for years – in order to ensure they are poised, fit, well-mannered under pressure, and “beautiful” (conventionally-speaking) enough to be judged and assessed according to set criteria in order to vie for a title. Though the ultimate prize is to come out on top, individuals are also acknowledged if they get close, or if they have an awesome national costume, are selected by their peers for congeniality, or are voted as being photogenic.

This year’s Miss Universe competition is being hosted in the Philippines, and it is also the home country of the current titleholder, Pia Wurtzbach, who is from Cagayan de Oro in Mindanao. The show will be held at the Mall of

Asia Arena in Pasay, and tickets are going for between $160 to $1000 USD a pop. There are even tour packages for returning overseas Filipino workers.

The Philippines has now held three Miss Universe crowns, first in 1969 and then in 1973, and has also secured multiple crowns at other international beauty pageants – one Miss World, six Miss International – including Kylie Verzosa’s recent win in 2016, and three Miss Earth crowns.

While representatives from the Philippines have been performing well on the global “stage,” so to speak, Filipinas compete in beauty pageants at all levels. There are many “Miss” contests throughout the country, in various regions, and the tradition has continued abroad in Philippine diaspora communities. The events are important social functions that have historically brought townspeople together to socialize and starred dalagas who were coming of age.

It was an opportunity for pretty and ambitious young women to participate and showcase their appearance, intelligence, talent, and presentation skills.

The first beauty pageants in

the Philippines began with the Manila Carnival, the first of which was held in 1908. Shortly after the end of the Philippine Revolution in 1898, when the Philippines became independent from Spain but was handed over as a colony to the U.S., the festival was organized

to celebrate American and Philippine relations. There were parades featuring the military, civic organizations and schools – based on an American educational framework.

In addition, agricultural products, businesses and industrial innovations were

featured from provinces all across the islands. The main event of the Manila Carnival, however, was the crowning of the Carnival Queen, chosen through a ballot-voting system with contestants who came from the wealthy elite. This See PAGEANTS p17

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 17

Meant To Be

Four boys, one girl. How can a girl choose only one?

What happens when four equally handsome guys fall for one girl? How can that girl choose just one?

GMA Network makes the year’s first quarter an exciting time for all with the launch of the light-hearted, romantic drama Meant To Be, which no airing on GMA Pinoy TV. Barbie Forteza is Billie, a typical millennial with issues in life.

Ivan Dorschner, plays the role of Ethan Spencer-Hughes.

Ethan is the ideal-guy-slashperfect-boyfriend. He is charming, romantic, and ultimately loyal.

He comes back to the Philippines hoping to reconnect with his mom after his dad passed away who left him with a huge amount of inheritance.

Addy Raj breathes life to the role of Jai Patel - a man from Mumbai whose life resembles to a Bollywood film. He’s hyper,

PAGEANTS...

From page 16 process was later changed to have judges, and contestants now come from different socio-economic backgrounds.

To commemorate this colourful tradition of Filipino culture and our motherland’s success on the world pageant scene, Aksyon Ng Ating Kabataan (ANAK) Inc. and Dalagita will be hosting a Miss Universe Viewing Party at Charlee’s Restaurant, 185 Stadacona Street, on Sunday, January 29th at 5:30 pm. Come join us for a Filipino fusion dinner, support local Filipino youth organizations on cultural identity and skill development, get pampered at one or two of the selfcare beauty stations, don a tiara, and watch whether Pia gets to hand over her crown to this year’s Miss Philippines, Maxine Medina!

For tickets or more information, contact info@anak.ca or info@ judimeetsworld.com.

Johsa Manzanilla has been watching endless amounts of YouTube make-up tutorials in anticipation for the Miss Universe Party on January 29th at Charlee’s (185 Stadacona). She hopes to see you there. She is the current Director of ANAK.

ROOSTER...

From page 4 field. You want to help but your offer to help is often misconstrued as faultfinding even if you meant well. This year, be ready to jump into more innovative tasks. This can be a very happy year for you.

You can turn things around; solve deep-rooted troubles and impress important people. It’s also time to be liberated and follow your heart.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

friendly, and he does not take life seriously, not even with girls.

Jak Roberto is Macoy dela Cruz, the only pure-blooded Filipino in the group. Among the boys, Macoy is the only one who comes from a middle-class family. He’s shy and just follows what he is told to do.

And lastly, Ken Chan is the Filipino-Chinese Yuan Lee, a hot-headed guy with lots of angst and frustrations in life. He’s an illegitimate son of a Chinese businessman and even as a kid, he has always tried to live up to his father’s standards but he always fail. He becomes rebellious against his father and turns his attention to sports.

Cultures clash and various problems arise in their respective families and love lives. How will the four boys compete for the love of one girl and how can that girl choose just one?

Joining Billie, Ethan, You are basically a sweet person. You like balance in your life and in the life of others. You love comfort and this makes you a very tactful person that there’s always very little room for disagreement. But you can be vacillating because you always assess the pros and cons. Do not take too much responsibilities this year; stay on the background. Keep your comfort level to what brings you contentment.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Nobody wants defeat and you hate losing. This year, you will need to compromise if you want to keep the peace among your peers.

Expect the unexpected. Do not put your eggs in one basket. You will have projects that may fall apart but there will be others that will succeed – if you cooperate. Just ride with the tide and let the team spirit take over.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You have always been candid and truthful. These traits will carry you through the year. Your love to debate can give the impression that you are arrogant so avoid it. You have been waiting for good news, it will happen this year. There will be reason to celebrate, and you will have new partners. Your perseverance and resourcefulness in the past have finally paid off.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You are thorough, competent and transparent; and you know it.

You take pride in knowing what needs to be done in most situations.

Try to keep it low key this year.

Others may see you as egotistical and self-righteous; you don’t want people to avoid you. Try to do your projects alone; this way you can protect your interests. Be patient – that’s the key to your success this year.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) You have a big, generous heart but you also relish being

The cast of Meant To Be: Barbie Forteza, Ken Chan, Addy Raj, Ivan Dorschner and Jak Roberto

L-r: Barbie Forteza, Keempee de Leon, Manilyn Reynes, Sef Cadayona

L-r: Manilyn Reynes, Sheryl Cruz and Tina Paner

Jai, Macoy, and Yuan on this rollercoaster ride will be a roster of actors known for their acting prowess: That’s Entertainment’s Triplets, Manilyn Reynes as

Amelia, Sheryl Cruz as Beatriz, and Tina Paner as Lucy; Keempee de Leon as Winston; and Sef Cadayona as Bats with the special participation of Ms.

Gloria Romero as Lola Madj with Stephanie Sol as Cacai, Zymic Jaranilla as Toti, and for her first GMA Network drama, Mika dela Cruz as Mariko.

different from the average Joe. If they move clockwise, you go counter clockwise. This may be a setback for you if you continue it this year. Be more cooperative and open-minded. There will be opportunities if you try to understand other people’s needs.

Get out of your comfort zone; do it slowly but surely. Ponder upon what’s really important to you and don’t worry about anything else.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) You love peace and you’re first to extend the olive branch even if you know you are the aggrieved

party. This action leaves a sense of resentment in your heart and it slows you down. It is now time to change. Your future this year will depend on your willingness to change. Stop being a doormat. Do not dwell on the past. You can still have peace. Be brave and move on.

OUR COMMUNITY

PAGE 18

PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Clarita Nazario’s 75th Birthday, January 7

Nanay Clarita Nazario

Nanay Clarita’s family and relatives

Photos by Arnel San Jose - Jeprox Photography

Family and friends Christmas party hosted by the Bermudo family

Special Thanks to the following: Decorations and Preparations by Beth Ticsay, Jinky Reyes, Nol Lacson, Leslie Wilson, Vivian Wilson, Victoria Jaime, Vienna Jaime and Bea Jaime; photobooth by Don and Cathy Suarez; music by Donn Bermudo; sounds by Benjie and Vic Jaime; karaoke provided by Budz Bermudo; special character by Lolo Momoy; emcees by Tin-Tin Ticsay & Leslie Wilson; door prize donor, Ska of DKF Fashion.

CRISTY...

From page 15 para makuha ang simpatya ng publiko.

Patawarin na lang ni Alden Richards ang mga taong iyon na pinadamutan ng kunsensiya para mabalanse ang takbo ng kanilang utak. Pati ba naman ang pagkawala ng ina ng aktor ay gagawan pa ng malisyosong kuwento?

Araw at gabi mang dumalaw si Alden sa puntod ng kaniyang ina ay hindi krimen. Minu-minuto man niyang sabihin na hindi na nakita ng kaniyang mommy ang matinding tagumpay niya ngayon ay walang pakialam ang kahit sino d’yan.

Kapuri-puri pa rin si Alden Richards, mabuti pa rin ang kaniyang puso, mapagpahalaga siya sa mga taong mahal niya na dapat ay naregaluhan niya ng tagumpay na hawak niya ngayon! *** Wala mang inilalabas na opisyal na pahayag ang pamunuan ng INC (Iglesia Ni Cristo)

tungkol sa ginawang panghihingi ng paumanhin ni Nora Aunor sa kanilang relihiyon ay may mga nakausap naman kaming miyembro ng INC na nagsabing pinatawad na nila ang Superstar.

Kung matatandaan ay nakapagbitiw ng mga salitang hindi nagustuhan ng mga miyembro ng INC at ng Romano Katoliko si Nora Aunor sa isang malaking pagtitipon ng mga miyembro ng Ang Dating Daan.

Pinagpistahan sa You Tube ang mahaba niyang pahayag na tumutukoy sa kaniyang pagpansin sa sistema ng pagpapalakad ng INC at ng Simbahang Katoliko sa kanilang mga nasasakupan.

Tinawag niyang Iglesia Ni Manalo ang INC, sinabi niya na ang mga pari ng Romano Katoliko ay nawawala sa focus kapag nakikita siya, pakiramdam din niya’y siya ang pinatatamaan ng mga pari sa homily.

Nang mahimasmasan ang aktres ay nagtawid siya ng panghihingi ng dispensa sa INC, sinabi niya na wala siyang

intensiyong siraan ang naturang sekta, madalas daw kasi siyang makarinig ng mga kababayan nating Iglesia Ni Manalo ang tawag sa INC. Wala raw malisya ang kaniyang sinabi, pero kung nasaktan niya ang pamunuan at mga miyembro ng INC, humihingi siya ng kapatawaran. Mababasa sa pagitan ng pagsasalita ni Nora Aunor na sinsero naman ang kaniyang mga sinasabi.

Komento ng isang miyembro ng INC na nagpadala sa amin ng mensahe, “Maraming salamat sa balanseng pagpapaliwanag sa isyu sa pagitan ni Nora Aunor at ng INC. Tanggap namin ang panghihingi niya ng paumanhin.

Pinatawad na namin siya.”

Ang sinabi nitong pagpapatawad sa Superstar ay hindi para sa mga miyembro ng INC sa pangkalahatan, personal lang nitong opinyon ang kaniyang sinabi, bilang miyembro ng kanilang sekta.

Dalawang paksa lang ang sinasabing pinakasensitibo sa

mundong ito—relihiyon at pagibig. Saan man makarating ang argumento ay walang nananalo at natatalo dahil ang pananampalataya pa rin ang nangingibabaw at ang tibok ng puso.

Sa susunod sigurong maimbitahan ang Superstar sa kahit anong okasyon na may kaugnayan sa relihiyon ay may leksiyon na siyang natutuhan. Hindi na niya uulitin ang pagpansin na parang paninira na rin sa ibang relihiyong tinutukoy niya, lalo na kung may bago siyang gustong aniban, magmamarka na ang karanasang inabot niya sa susunod. *** Kamakailan lang, isang hapon, may one-on-one interview si Mocha Uson sa Reaksyon, pero nakiusap siya sa isang staff ni Luchi Cruz-Valdes kung puwede muna siyang dumaan ng Cristy Ferminute.

Nagpasintabi naman muna si Tita Cherry Bayle, ang aming boss sa Radyo Singko, kung maluwag sa aming kalooban ang

personal na pagdalaw ng bagong board member ng MTRCB sa aming programa.

Walang kagatul-gatol kaming sumagot ng oo. Walang pagdadalawang-isip ang aming tugon. Bukas na bukas ang pintuan ng Cristy Ferminute para kay Mocha Uson.

Sa aming mga kolum ay hindi namin siya pinepersonal, nagiging reaksiyonaryo lang kami sa kaniyang mga sinasabi, pareho kaming may karapatang pumuna sa aming mga kakulangan at pagmamalabis.

At hindi puwedeng ang boses lang namin ang naririnig sa pagpitik sa kaniya, kailangang maging parehas ang laban, may boses din si Mocha Uson na dapat nating bigyan-daan.

Ilang minuto lang ay nasa studio na siya ng CFM, pagod dahil katatapos lang niyang manumpa sa Palasyo bilang bagong board member ng MTRCB, pero nakangiti siya at maaliwalas ang kaniyang hitsura.

See CRISTY p20

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

Allister Isaiah Bermisa Christening, January 8

Allister Isaiah Bermisa’s mom Grazia and dad Gerald

Allister Isaiah Bermisa’s baptismal at St. Gianna Beretta Molla Church

Allister Isaiah Bermisa’s family and friends

Allister Isaiah Bermisa’s family and Reverend Darrin J. G. Gurr

Allister Isaiah Bermisa’s family and friends

Photos by Rey-Ar Reyes

PAGE 19

EH KASI, PINOY!

PAGE 20

PILIPINO EXPRESS

KROSWORD

HOROSCOPE

NO. 268

ENERO 16 – 31, 2017

Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot

PAHALANG 1. Alagad ng batas 4. Kurap 7. Sukob 8. Baba 11. Lipat 14. Ipinapahayag 16. Hilig 17. Uga 18. Alinlangan 19. Marahil 21. Bughaw 23. Tatay 24. Ugoy 26. Sikat na boksingero 27. Alahas 29. Ganit 31. Uso 32. Sauli 34. Pang-abay 35. Liham PABABA 1. Pasayahin 2. Ipangako 3. Maton 4. Pusta 5. Ginunita

6. Sinabon 9. Hamak 10. Pinaslang 12. Aalis 13. Panghalip 15. Salamin 20. Marahil 22. Biyaya ng langit 24. Sambit 25. Bighani 28. Hamak 30. Awang 33. Notang musikal

SAGOT SA NO. 267

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Aries (March 21 – April 19) Huwag kang magreklamo kung parang wala kang oras magpahinga.

Samantalahin mo ang buwenas sa hanapbuhay dahil panapanahon lang iyan. Dapat kang matuwa dahil importanteng mga tao ang makakapansin sa mahusay na trabaho mo. OK ang ika-22, 23 at 24. Alalay ka sa ika-17, 18, 19, 25 at 26.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) May mga nangyayari na hindi mo kayang macontrol. Tulad ng hindi inaasahang pagkasira ng computer, makina, kotse, o anumang importanteng gamit mo sa negosyo o hanapbuhay. Iwasan mong ma-stress dahil lalo lang lalala ang problema mo. Cool ka lang. OK sa ika-22, 23 at 24. Ingat sa ika-20, 21, 27 at 28.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Para kang may magnet sa mga pekeng negosyante. Maraming nag-aaya sa iyong maglagay ng puhunan sa mga negosyo na alam mo namang hindi uunlad. Huwag kang papatol kahit na malapit mong kaibigan ang lalapit sa iyo.

Hindi ka namumulot ng pera.

Masaya ang ika-22, 23 at 24. May tension sa ika-16, 30 at 31.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Pagdating sa pag-aabang sa magandang oportunidad, alam mong nangunguna ka.

Kung may pagkakataon, huwag mong pakawalan ang offer sa iyo na bumiyahe o makapag-aral sa ibang lugar. Abangan mo rin, baka may magbibigay sa iyo ng bagong trabaho. Lucky ang ika-16, 25 at 26. Ingat sa ika-20, 21, 27 at 28.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Masaya ang pasok ng bagong taon para sa iyo.

Magaan ang pakiramdam mo at handang-handa kang sumalubong sa anumang pagsubok. Huwag mo lang pabayaan ang obligasyon mo sa mga bata sa pamilya. Bigyan mo sila ng magagandang alaala. OK ang ika-16, 25 at 26. Ingat sa ika22, 23, 24, 30 at 31.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Napansin mo bang marami kang hindi nagagawang importante sa ikauunlad ng buhay mo?

Simpleng gawain tulad ng paglilinis ng mga kalat o pag-aayos ng iyong mga papeles ay parang napakahirap para sa iyo. Bakit kaya? Pagisipan mo ito. Good days ang ika16, 25 at 26. May tensyon sa ika17, 18 at 19.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) May oras na nagdududa ka kung tama ba ang ginagawa mo lalo na sa pagtulong mo sa isang kaibigan na para bang lagi na lamang humihingi ng tulong sa iyo at sa iba. May kutob kang parang nanggagamit lang siya.

Pakinggan mo ang kutob mo. OK ang ika-17, 18, 19, 27 at 28. Ingat sa ika-16, 22, 23, 24, 30 at 31.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) Huwag kang mag-alala kung may mga oras na gusto mo lang sa bahay kasama ang mga mahal mo sa buhay. Anuman ang sabihin ng iba, walang makakapalit sa kaligayahan mo at ng pamilya mo. Matuto kang tumanggi lalo na kung ayaw mong talaga. OK ang ika-17, 18, 19, 27 at 28.

Kuwidaw sa ika-25 at 26.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) Kailangan mong hanapin ang balanse sa buhay mo. Pag-aralan mo kung ano ang dapat na tahaking landas para umunlad ka. Isa-isahin mo ang mga nakaraang kabiguan at tagumpay. Mas makikita mo kung ano ang kahinaan o lakas mo. Saka ka kumilos. Lucky ka sa ika-17, 18, 19, 27 at 28. Careful sa ika-20 at 21.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Kapag kulang ng tulog ang isang tao, apektado hindi lang ang pisikal na katawan kundi pati na rin ang emosyon at isipan. Pilitin mong makatulog ng tama, malalayo ka sa sakit at maiiwasan mo rin ang mga desisyon na makakasama sa iyo. OK sa ika20, 21, 30 at 31. Stressful ang ika-17, 18, 19, 25 at 26.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) Kung kailangan mong ipaliwanag at sabihin ang totoong nangyari, gawin mo. Huwag mong pabayaan na manghula sila kung ano ba ang totoo. Sa ganyan nagsisimula ang tsismis o hindi pagkakaunawaan.

Pati pangalan mo ay madadamay.

Ayaw mo iyon, di ba? OK ang ika-20, 21, 30 at 31. Ingat sa ika27 at 28.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Dumarami ang mga bagong kaibigan mo.

OK lang kung mahilig kang makipagsosyalan.

Pero problema ito kung nais mo ng isang pribado at tahimik na buhay.

Gawan mo na lang ng paraan para huwag ka nilang asahang laging kasama sa lahat ng lakaran. OK ang ika-20, 21, 30 at 31. Ingat sa ika-16, 22, 23 at 24.

reaksiyonaryo rin at bukas na bukas sa pagbibigay ng aking opinyon at paninindigan.

“Hindi ko po minamasana ang mga bira sa akin ng press, may espasyo po sila, puwede po ninyo akong birahin, punahin, basta ang pakiusap ko lang—sama-sama po tayo tungo sa ikabubuti ng ating bayan,” pahayag ni Mocha Uson.

At inulit niya ang pagsasabi na nagbago na siya, hindi na niya ginagawa ngayon sa entablado ang nakasanayan niyang paggilinggiling, pangdudukot sa pantalon ng lalaking kinukuha niya sa audience, ang kaniyang Mocha Girls ay nadagdagan pa ngayon ng Mocha Babes.

“Iyon pong mga pictures ko na ayon sa kanila’y malalaswa, seven years ago pa po iyon! Napakatagal na panahon na po ng mga pictures na iyon, pero ngayon pa lang nila

inilalabas.

“Iba na po ako ngayon, hindi ko na ginagawa ang dating act ko sa stage. Nagbago na po ako at sana’y bigyan nila ako ng pagkakataong mapatunayan ko naman ang magagawa ko sa ibang linya,” pagdidiin ni Mocha. *** Sa ospital nag-Bagong Taon ang mag-inang Kris Aquino at Bimby dahil mataas ang lagnat ni Bimby, at nang-aabala naman ang ubo at sipon ng aktres-TV host.

Kung kaya sa poder nina James Yap at Michela Cazzola tuloy nagdiwang ng Bagong Taon si Joshua Phillip.

Maraming natuwa, lalo na’t ramdam na ramdam ang sinserong pagmamahal ng basketbolista kay Josh, pero marami ring nalungkot at nagtatanong.

See CRISTY p21

CRISTY...

From page 18 Bago pa namin nasimulan ni kapatid na Ronnie Carrasco ang pagtatanong ay inangkin muna ni Mocha ang himpapawid.

Kaniyang-kaniya ang entablado.

Ang unang mga salitang lumabas sa kaniyang bibig, “I love you, Nanay Cristy, mahal na mahal ko po kayo, dumaan po ako dito sa inyo para magpasalamat.”

Ramdam namin ang sinseridad ng kaniyang mga sinabi, hindi iyon ang unang pagkakataong pinuri namin si Mocha Uson sa kapasidad niyang magpakumbaba, kahit magkaiba ang aming pananaw tungkol sa maraming isyu ng bayan.

“Karapatan n’yo pong pumuna, kalayaan n’yo po iyon, kung paanong ako naman po ay

EH KASI, PINOY!

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

Humigit-kumulang, tatlong buwan na lang ang ating pagtitiis sa panahon ng taglamig. May pinalabas na babala ang City of Winnipeg. Iwasan, hangga’t maaari, ang going outdoors and traveling during extreme weather sa labas ng city. *** Ang yearly NDP meeting ay nakatakda sa darating Marso.

September naman nakaumang ang convention na ang layunin ay pumili ng opisyal na lider ng partido.

Waring maikli ang nabanggit na panahon para makapili ng possible solution sa kasalukuyang problema ng dapat maging leader ng partido. Ang mga inaakalang karapat-dapat ay tila hindi interesado.

Pilipinas Simula sa susunod na buwan hanggang matapos ang unang taon ng Duterte administration, baka malalaman na ng taumbayan ang hinaharap ng bansa sa ilalim ng liderato ni President Duterte.

Hiniling ng pangulo sa mga mamamayang Filipino na tulungan siya sa war against illegal drug trade, criminality and corruption.

Sinabing kung walang tulong ang taumbayan, mananatiling problema na makamit ang hinahangad na katahimikan at kaunlaran ng bansa. *** Simula noong si Vice President Robredo ay sinabihan na hindi na siya kailangang dumalo sa mga panayam ng gabinete, nag-umpisa nang naging laman ng mga usapan sa mga barberya ang maruming politika. Nagbitiw na agad as member of DU30’s official family si Vice President Leni Robredo Nagpahayag kaagad ng kaniyang saloobin tungkol sa liderato ng Pangulo. Sabi ni Ms. Robredo, hindi na ngayon ang oras

PILIPINO EXPRESS

ng pagtatakip, oras na ng paghatol, oras na ng katapangan.

Inamin ni Ms Robredo na may dalawang okasyon na nagkausap sila ni Philip Goldberg, ang fomer US Ambassdor sa Pilipinas. Hindi daw naman nila napag-usapan ang tungkol sa blueprint na ang layunin ay mapatalsik si Pres.

Duterte sa katungkulan. Mula nang manggaling sa US from family reunion, waring naiba ang estilo. Halimbawa ang kaparis ng sinabi ni Ms Robredo na hindi makakabuti sa Pilipinas ang pagpapatalsik sa pangulo. Hindi raw siya sumasali sa mga rally against the President na katulad ng isyu sa former President Marcos burial. Subalit ang lumabas niyang mga pahayag ay waring kabaligtaran ng kaniyang mga sinasabi. *** Inaalam ngayon ng Malacañang kung totoo ang alegasyong lumabas sa social media na tinaguriang Lenileak.

Ang pinagbatayan umano ay hango sa e-mail conversations na may kinalaman sa planong pipilitin ang resignation ni Pres.

DU30. *** Ang kampanyang pagbibitiw ng Philippine president ay pinangungunahan daw ng Global Filipino Diaspora Council na FilAm loyalists ng partido ni former president Aquino. Kabilang sa mga miyembro ng GFDC ang dalawang bilyonaryang backer umano ni Ms. Robredo. Ang nagbulgar naman umano ng Lenileak ay mga proDUterte bloggers. Ang “Thinking Pinoys,” mga Fil-Am din na sa US naninirahan.

Labis-labis ang patanggi ni VP Robredo na kasama siya ng sinasabing kilusan na naghahangad ng forced resignation ni Pangulong Digong. Sinabi ni Presidential

HINAGAP Luma at Bagong Panahon Sinisintang lupa ay dagling iniwan, ng lumang panahong agad namaalam; Ang bago’y nangako ng kaginhawahan, Kahit malabo pa ang iwing larawan! *** Pagbabagong layon ay nakakatulig, Subalit maraming hindi nakikinig; Palibhasa’y dala sa naging hagupit, ng lumang panahong pabaya’t malupit! *** Pag-asa na naman ang sandigan ngayon, at pangako pa rin ng bagong panahon; Ang malubhang hirap na tiniis noon, Sana ay ginhawa naman ang katugon! *** Tulad sa panahon, pag-asa’t hangarin, Taglay na pangarap madaling isipin!

Paquito Rey Pacheco

Communication Secretary Martin Andanar na iyon ay isang siryosong alegasyon na kailangan ang masusing imbestigasyon.

Hindi naman nag-aalala ang ibang mga nasa Malacañang. Kasi, kung sa ngayon lang, si President Duterte ay mahirap mapatalsik sa kaniyang katungkulan. Gusto siya ng mayoryang taumbayan. Mataas pa ang popularidad ng pangulo kumpara kay Vice President Leni Robredo.

Aba, sakaling nanaisin ng LP na makabangon at maging credible opposition party, ang nasirang relasyon ng Maynila at Washington ay maaari din nilang magamit against DU30. Hindi naman kaila kasi na si Pres.

Duterte at outgoing US President, Barack Obama ay naging mainit sa isa’t isa. *** Naalala ko tuloy ang sinabi noon ng Former US President George W. Bush. Maraming paraan para balatan ang pusa.

Halimbawa, ang magtanim ng tao mismo sa gobyerno ng bansa na nais nilang guluhin. Ngayon, wala bang enemy sleeping with the official family of Pres. DU30?

Before Christmas, nabalitang four Bicolana liders na supporters ni VP Robredo ang nagkita-kita sa US. Nagplano umano ng mga paraan kung paano si President Duterte mapipilitang mag-resign.

Bago namaalam ang 2016, si president DU30 ay nagbantang paduduguin daw niya ang ilong ng mga taong manggugulo sa kaniyang pamamahala. Baka matagal nang alam ni Digong ang tungkol sa GFDC kaya sinabihan si VP Robredo na hindi na siya kailangang dumalo sa cabinet meetings.

Ngayon ay sariwa pa rin ang balita na simula sa darating na Pebrero ay magkakaroon na ng mga street demonstrations na paninira sa liderato ng Pangulo ang motibo. Alam ni Digong kung ginagago siya ng kaniyang mga kausap. Kaya naman pa-gago din ang kaniyang pagsagot.

Ang balitang plano na anyayahan sa kongreso ang US

CRISTY...

From page 20

Bakit sa piling ni James nagNew Year si Josh, bakit hindi sa poder ni Phillip Salvador, samantalang ang action star ang tatay ni Josh?

Bakit mas madalas pang nakakasama ni Josh si James Yap na stepdad lang nito, bakit hindi nito nakakasama si Kuya Ipe, nasaan nga kaya ang problema?

Matindi pa rin ba ang hidwaan sa pagitan ng aktor at ni Kris?

Sa mga pagkakataong nakakasama namin si Kuya Ipe ay nag-uusap sila ni Josh sa telepono.

Kumakanta pa nga sila ng Ten Little Indians. Ilang taon na ang nakararaan iyon, bata pa si Josh, ewan lang kung hanggang ngayo’y regular pa rin ang kanilang komunikasyon.

Sasabihin ni Josh sa kabilang linya, “One, little two, little three, little Indians,” sasagot naman si Kuya Ipe, “Four, little five, little six, little seven, little Indians.”

PAGE 21

embassy officials ay pag-aaksaya lang ng panahon at tax-payers money. Walang mapipiga sa kanila.

Hindi naman bago ang palagay sa kanila ni Pres. Digong. Alam din ng maraming mamamayan na ang mga foreign embassy ay satellites ng kani-kanilang bansa. *** Ang bagong Donald Trump administration ay magsisimula sa ika-20 ng kasalukuyan sa US Congress. Bagaman ang relasyon ng Maynila at Washington ay napunit sa panahon ng Obama administration, baka naman maaari pa daw na maitagni ng Trump administration.

Hindi maitago ni DU30 ang sama ng loob sa mga naging US president na ang tingin nila sa mga Filipino ay alipin. Akala nila, ang Pilipinas ay territory pa rin nila. Kasi nga, may mga Amgirl at Amboy na naging pangulo ng Pilipnas. *** Sa kabila ng order noon ng PET sa Comelec, to protect all election machines at paraphernalia na ginamit sa VP race after Marcos camp protests noong June 29, 2016, lumabas ngayon na ang SC ay hindi ginagalang ng Comelec chairman. Hindi napigilan ng Supreme Court, en banc as PET si Comelec Chairman Andres Bautista. Sinoli rin daw ni Chairman Andres Bautista sa Smartmatic ang mga poll materials na ginamit sa 2016 vice presidential race.

Kahit mapatunayang may malaking pananagutan ang Comelec Chairman sa kaniyang action for denying the electorate rights, ano naman ang parusa?

Mag-sorry lang, then resign tapos na?

May kasabihang “malapot ang dugo kumpara sa tubig.”

Alalahaning si former president Aquino na umano’y pinsan ni Andres Bautista ang nag-appoint sa kaniya sa Comelec.

Ang hinala ng mga kritiko, maliwanag daw na maaaring sadyang iniwasan ni Chairman Bautista na mangyari ang vote recount sa lugar na pinagbabasihan

ng Marcos camp protests?

Partikular ang resulta ng botohan sa 29,221 clustered precincts sa 25 provinces at limang cities na may nine million votes.

Gayon din ang hiling na pawalang saysay ang votes from Lanao del Sur, Basilan and Maguindanao provinces. *** Maliwanag na hindi happy ang dulot kay Sen. Leila de Lima ng Bagong Taon. Patung-patong na kaso ang nakadagan sa kaniya na may tiyak na patutunguhan.

Malaya siyang magsabi ng kaniyang mga saloobin subalit parang sa hangin at pader lang nakakarating. Maaaring naalala niya ang magandang sikat ng araw noong siya ang nasa kapangyarihan. Ngayon, kaparis ng madilim na gabing kahit alitaptap ay nagkakait sa kaniya ng ilaw. Ingat lang sana siya. Waring nasa gilid na siya ng kumunoy.

Katas Ang political drama ay inaasahang magsisimula na bago matapos ang unang buwan ng 2017.

• Pagsusulong sa panukalang federalism of government ang pangunahing adyenda ng kongreso. Malabo pa rin ang maaasahang resulta.

• Issues regarding illegal drug trade war, human rights and EJK ay magiging sangkalan ng mga kilos protesta tungkol sa liderato ng pangulo.

• Karaniwang magaganap malapit sa University belt. Sa Claro Recto Ave at Mendiola Street na malapit sa Malacañang ang senaryo.

• After about 20 months nakatakda ang mid-term elections.

Lulutang na rin ang kakayahan ng LP as leading opposition party at ang tinutungo ng bayan sa kasalukuyang gobyerno.

Kasabihan Kalawang ang karaniwang nakakasira sa bakal.

Paunawa: Ang mga paksa at salitang nakasaad sa Pilantik ay sariling opinion ng may-akda at maaaring hindi opinion ng mga taga-lathala ng Pilipino Express.

Nakakaaliw silang pakinggan habang kumakanta, pero nakakalungkot din, dahil hanggang telepono lang ang kanilang paguusap.

Pero sa pagkakaalam namin ay hindi naman ipinagdadamot ni Kris si Josh sa kaniyang tatay, nalalaman na lang namin na nagkita ang mag-ama, kaya ibinabalita ni Kuya Ipe na mas malaki pa raw ang size ng paa ni Josh kesa sa kaniya.

Baka naman may mahalagang trabaho lang si Kuya Ipe noong Bagong Taon. Sa pagkakaalam kasi namin ay siya ang nagiging kinatawan ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa mahahalagang okasyong hindi nito personal na napupuntahan.

Napakaraming selebrasyong hindi nadadaluhan ni Pangulong Digong, si Kuya Ipe ang nagpupunta, baka naging abala ang aktor kaya kay James Yap nagdiwang ng Bagong Taon si Joshua.

Pero totoong kapuri-puri ang

ipinararamdam na pagmamahal ni James kay Josh, bibihira ang step father na ganoon, nakakayang mahalin ang batang hindi naman kaniya kundi bahagi lang ng kanilang nakaraan ni Kris.

Kunsabagay, kahit sino naman ang tanungin natin ay laganap ang mga papuri para kay James, maraming humahanga sa kaniya.

Mga kapuwa nito basketbolista, mga tagahanga nito, lahat ay isa lang ang sinasabi.

Walang kayabang-yabang si James Yap. May mabuting puso si James. Hindi lumaki ang ulo ni James Yap kahit pa sikat na sikat na ito.

At alam iyon ni Kris Aquino. *** So, muling nagkita nga sina Mayor Herbert Bautista at Kris Aquino kailan lang. pero wala raw kinalaman iyon sa dating tamis ng kanilang pagmamahalan.

Mabilis na nilinaw ng mayor ng Kyusi na hindi sila nagkabalikan, nanghingi lang daw ng tulong See CRISTY p22

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First Annual Villamor Friendship Tournament PCCM, November 26, 2016

Master Sikaran instructor Paul Villamor hosted the First Annual Villamor Sikaran and Arnis Filipino Martial Arts Open Friendship Tournament at the PCCM on November 26. The event included teams from several local schools in various disciplines, including Sikaran, Arnis, Red Dragon Kung-Fu, Tai Chi, Can-Tae Karate, Kick-Boxing, CFC Muay-Thai, Falcon Armado, TK Takewondo, Tracma Martial Arts and Reyes Martial Arts.

Beginner Arnis sparring, adult men’s division

Beginner sparring, ages 7-8 division

Opening of the tournament

CRISTY...

From page 21 si Kris para sa permit ng bago niyang papasuking negosyo, pinagbigyan lang siya ni Mayor Bistek.

Nag-usap lang sila habang kumakain, nagbalitaan tungkol sa mga pinakahuling pangyayari sa kanilang buhay, pero labas sa kanilang usapan ang anggulo ng pag-ibig.

Parang nabababawan lang ang marami sa naging dahilan ng kanilang pagkikita. Business permit lang, kailangan pa raw ipanghingi ng tulong ni Kris?

Sabi ng isang nakausap namin, “E, puwede namang pumila na lang sa City Hall ang isang staff ni Kris para makakuha sila ng permit, di ba? Bakit kailangan pa nilang magkita ni Mayor Herbert?

“Ano ito, palakasan? Para padaliin ang pagkuha ng business permit?

Parang ang babaw naman ng reason na ibinibigay nila kaya sila nagkita uli,” nakataas ang kilay na komento ng aming kausap.

May katwiran ang katwiran. Oo nga naman. Marami namang staff si Kris Aquino na puwedeng mag-asikaso sa kaniyang kailangan. May accountant

din ang aktres-TV host na puwedeng mag-apply ng kaniyang business permit.

Pero bakit kailangan pa niyang makipagkita kay Mayor Herbert nang dahil lang doon? *** Sa isang letra lang ng pagkakamali ay puwede nang maging dahilan para upakan ang kahit sino sa social media.

Hindi sinasadya ang pagkakamali, hindi intensiyonal, aksidente lang.

Jeddy ang tawag ni Sharon Cuneta kay Jed Madela. Magkaibigan sila, magkatrabaho, kaya hindi kakikitaan ng malisya ang pagkatawag niya ng Jedda sa singer noong batiin niya ito ng Happy New Year.

Honest mistake. Namali lang siya ng pindot sa makina. Pero ginawa nang malaking isyu iyon ng mga mahilig makisawsaw sa kahit anong isyu.

Gagawin ba naman iyon nang sadya ng Megastar? Ipapahiya ba naman niya si Jed sa publiko nang ganoon na lang? Isang letra lang ang nagkamali, inuupak-upakan na si Sharon, hindi ba puwedeng nagkamali lang naman siya sa pagpindot dahil hindi naman siya perpekto?

May kuwento kami. Nangyari na ang ganyan sa amin noon. Nagpadala

Beginner sparring, adult men’s division kami ng text sa isang lalaking personalidad na pinagdududahan ang kasarian.

Sa simula ng mensahe kami nagkamali, sa halip na anak, anal ang naipadala namin.

Kumabyos ang daliri namin sa pagpindot, sa halip na K, tumatlong pindot kami sa keypad, kaya L ang lumabas.

Gusto sana naming bawiin ang aming pagkakamali, pero hindi na namin ginawa, dahil mas lulutang ang impresyon na pati kami’y naniniwala sa pagdududa ng marami sa kaniyang gender.

Nangyayari talaga ang ganoon, lalo na kapag nagmamadali tayo, kapata-patawad ang ganoong kakulangan at hindi dapat ituring na isang krimen at sadya.

Jedda ang nai-type ni Sharon sa halip na Jeddy, malaking kasalanan ba iyon? Kailangan na bang husgahan ang pagkatao ng Megastar dahil lang sa isang simpleng pagkakamali?

Kung si Jed Madela nga, hindi nagalit, hindi ito nag-isip ng kung ano, ang mga nakikisawsaw pa kaya sa isyu ang may karapatang humusga kay Sharon Cunea, anobayen? – CSF

JANUARY 16 - 31, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

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