Pilipino Express • Jan 1 2017

Volume 13 • No. 1 • January 1-15, 2017 Publication Mailing Account #41721512

Bea Alonzo

Happy New Year!

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

Service Consultant

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DALE GARRIDO

Sales & Leasing Consultant

2017 A bill calling for the return of the death penalty in the Philippines will be “a priority for discussion in the Senate” in the New Year, said Senate President Aquilino Pimentel III. “I feel that there’ll be many who will oppose that but we need to talk about it… we’ll give everyone time to discuss it,” Pimentel said.

On December 7, the committee on justice endorsed the measure for plenary consideration.

Heinous crimes covered by the See CAPITAL p16

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Collision Repair Advisor

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(Written while typhoon Nina [international name NockTen] barrels through northern Philippines on December 26, 2016.)

Once upon a time in the notso-distant past we would all, at this point in a major weather disturbance, be scrambling to collect relief goods to be sent to survivors. The government itself would air appeals for contributions, while the major media networks would take it upon themselves to collect and deliver relief goods to the affected areas.

Something, however, seems to have happened this year. The country had just come from a long drought courtesy of El Niño, so we experienced our first disturbance only on June 26, 2016. Ambo was only a tropical depression, but since then there have been 13 weather disturbances in the Philippines — all of them under the watch of President Rodrigo Duterte.

And in every single one of them, not once did we hear government make an appeal for donations for survivors. In fact, during typhoons Karen (October 17) and Lawin (October 23), Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy Taguiwalo famously and categorically said in a Facebook post that the

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country was not asking for foreign assistance or donations: “Mga mahal naming kababayan, kaunting paliwanag po: hindi tayo humihingi ng foreign assistance o donations mula sa ibang bansa para sa Karen o Lawin dahil nakitang may sapat na pondo ang gobyerno at mga ahensya nito para saklolohan ang mamamayang apektado.”

(My dear countrymen, just a little explanation: We are not asking for foreign assistance or donations from other countries for Karen or Lawin because we have seen that government and its agencies have enough funds to help citizens who are affected.)

Apparently, this also holds true for us citizens: While we may feel the itch to send relief goods, Taguiwalo says, “Thanks, but no thanks.”

And now, as typhoon Nina makes its way through the northern part of the Philippines, Taguiwalo gave assurance that the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) still has enough relief supplies to respond to the needs of affected families.

“To the affected families, you may approach your LGUs. Goods have already been pre-positioned to them,” she said. Aside from these, the DSWD will also provide P206.36 million in augmentation assistance to 27 local government

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Why aren’t we scrambling to collect relief goods for typhoon victims? units (LGUs) hit by the typhoon, which covers food and non-food items.

And just to be specific, she said these consist of the following: 580,857 family food packs, 2,459 ready-to-eat meals, 1,585 malongs, 885 mosquito nets, 885 blankets, 585 dignity kits (towels, toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, feminine napkins, and others).

Aside from relief supplies, the DSWD will also provide a mobile communications vehicle and high-speed Internet service to the Response Cluster Operations Center at the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) to facilitate speedy monitoring of situations in areas.

Talk about change. We used to think that our country was so poor that we had to dig into our own pockets and sift through our own personal belongings so that there would be enough for the survivors of disasters. Now we know that there is enough — there has always been enough — but previous administrations have been misusing our money.

For example, Taguiwalo said the Aquino administration acquired a

large amount of foreign aid during the onslaught of supertyphoon Yolanda in 2013 but up to now it is still not clear where a large part of that donation went.

“Hanggang ngayon hindi malinaw saan napunta ang malaking bahagi ng donations at tine-trace pa rin dahil maraming hindi nakinabang sa tulong,” she said. (Up to now it is still not clear where a large part of the donations went. We are still trying to trace it because many survivors did not receive any help.)

But now, under a President who is often criticized for his foul mouth and “uncouth” character, we are realizing that we can actually take care of ourselves.

It’s not that we don’t want to help our suffering countrymen; it’s just that there is simply no need right now.

As we say in Filipino, “Puwede naman pala.”

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

New Year’s resolutions – the struggle is real “My goal for 2017 is to accomplish the goals of 2016, which I should have done in 2015 because I made a promise in 2014 that I planned back in 2013…”

I saw the above quote as a post on Instagram and all I can say is: #relatable. Although I have always considered myself to be goaloriented, of course, there are times when I fall short of reaching my goals. This is especially true when it comes to setting and achieving my New Year’s resolutions. In fact, I have journals filled with my New Year’s resolutions from previous years and I can’t help but notice that there are some items that just seem to consistently get carried over from year to year. It’s both hilarious and frustrating at the same time.

Personally, I am determined to finally get to the bottom of why some items just keep on getting carried over. So unlike previous

years where I would jump right into the new year with recycled resolutions, I am first going to ask myself: “Why am I having a hard time keeping my New Year’s resolutions?

As I was reading on this topic, I was not surprised by the overwhelming amount of research done on this topic. I will share the top three most commonly talked about with you here: 1. “People aren’t ready to change their habits, particularly bad habits, and that accounts for the high failure rate.” (Timothy Pychyl, Psychology Professor at Carlton University in Canada) No matter how good the intent of the resolution is; it is always challenging trying to break old habits. A friend once shared with me that before trying to break a bad habit, you really have to internalize and embrace the consequences of not changing. This will strengthen

your resolve when faced with the temptations. Also, you have to declutter and be in an environment that will help you during this time.

For example, if you want to do better in school, you may choose to set aside some time during the week dedicated to studying instead of going out with friends.

2. “People set unrealistic goals and expectations” (Dr. Avya Sharma, Canadian Obesity Network) I can absolutely relate with this one! When setting any new goals for yourself, it is integral to ask the question “is this realistic?” Goals were meant for us to work towards a sense of accomplishment, but it is also very possible that, if the goals are unrealistic, we may set ourselves up for failure instead.

Consider keeping the guiding acronym “SMART” in mind when creating and reviewing your resolutions: SMART = Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-Based.

3.

“Cause and effect relationship where, for example,

you may think that if you lose weight your life will change, and when it does not, you may get discouraged and revert back to old behaviours” (Ray Williams, Breaking Bad Habits) In my opinion, this is probably the most important one of all. It is crucial for us to re-examine our intentions for our resolutions and not ignore the “why” questions.

You may be (1) ready to change your habits, (2) have created realistic and SMART goals, but (3) if your “why” is not of pure intent, then you may find yourself five steps further away from where you started.

So, what to take from all of this? Keeping resolutions throughout the entire year is a challenge. Believe me; I know.

However, the point is to get up and try again. The purpose of making resolutions is to motivate ourselves; not to feel discouraged.

So to all of you who just kicked-off your New Year’s resolutions, I wish you all the best!

Stay inspired and encourage one another. Happy New Year!

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JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

“Poor planning on your part does not necessitate an emergency on mine.” There are different variations of this quote

by Environmental Scientist Bob Carter, which I am sure you have heard in many personal and workplace conversations.

Let’s look at a classic scenario. A person is diligently organizing and effectively planning out his or her schedule to complete a few important tasks, and then these plans are suddenly thrown into chaos because someone decides to call or e-mail an “urgent” request that now requires this person’s immediate attention.

PILIPINO EXPRESS

In personal situations, it may be a case of a family member wanting something done for them right away or in business situations, it may be a case of a co-worker wanting last minute assistance to meet a deadline.

What happens next? Now, this person has to scramble to find time to fit in a new request from a family member or a co-worker that will probably require putting his or her our own priorities on hold, because the family member or co-worker failed to manage his or her time effectively or at the very least give ample notice.

How many times has this happened to you? Sadly, these

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Time management for career success in the New Year experiences happen often in our personal and professional lives.

Lack of planning and lack of time management are unfortunately perceived as a form of disrespect.

People who impose their needs on others appear to show disregard for the other person’s time. One way or another, I’m sure each and every one of us has been guilty of doing things at the last minute. Here are a couple of tips for time management: Efficiency reflects time management Proper management of time means things are accomplished in the least possible time. People who are able to manage time well gain a competitive edge against their colleagues because performance ratings are way better for those who are able to manage their time well. On the other hand, people with poor time management skills find themselves with backlogged assignments. Before they know it, they even find themselves complaining about their workload when the real issue is poor time management and not the workload.

Know your priorities Good time management skills are rooted in knowing when to do what is urgent and what is important. Being able to recognize priorities is an important factor in career success. Making a lot of commitments can be a good thing at work as it shows a lot of dedication, however, at some point it may be a good idea to decline opportunities while keeping in mind the priorities on your plate.

Ever heard the Chinese proverb, “no amount of gold will buy you time that has passed?”

Basically, it’s saying that time is a very limited resource. Whether we are at home or at work, the importance of time must not be overlooked. Knowing its importance and taking the steps to master this skill will help increase career success.

The year 2017 is the Year of the Rooster and people who are born under this zodiac sign are characterized as trustworthy, hardworking, strong at timekeeping, career-driven and good at multitasking. The New Year sure sounds like a great

starting point to practice time management skills!

“Don’t say you don’t have enough time. You have exactly the same number of hours per day that were given to Helen Keller, Pasteur, Michaelangelo, Mother Teresa, Leonardo da Vinci, Thomas Jefferson, and Albert Einstein.” ― H. Jackson Brown Jr. This article is intended for information purposes only and not to be considered as professional advice.

Source www.ibtimes.com.au/2017year-rooster-10-things-knowabout-chinese-new-year-1537638 Michele Majul-Ibarra, IPMA-ACP is an Advanced Certified HR Professional with the International Personnel Management Association. She graduated from the University of Manitoba with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology and a Certificate in Human Resource Management. She also holds the C.I.M. professional designation (Certified in Management).

E-mail her at info@pilipinoexpress.com.

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

Students at St. Mary’s Academy know that education is more than just opening a book.

They are part of a community that encourages spiritual growth, academic excellence, positive mental health and well-being.

Each student is challenged to reach her full potential as an individual created in God’s image.

New student applications due February 10, 2017 Applications accepted for all grades, with major entry points in Grades 7 & 9 Financial assistance available All faiths welcome

550 Wellington Crescent, Winnipeg, MB, R3M 0C1 | 204-477-0244 stmarysacademy.mb.ca | facebook.com/smawinnipeg | instagram.com/smawinnipeg | twitter.com/smawpg

Educating young women spirit, mind and body

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

The sponsorship of parents & grandparents in 2017 Many people, including those who work professionally in the immigration field, have been waiting for IRCC to announce changes in the immigration forms for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents. In years past, the changes were released in December, prior to the submission dates in January 2015 or 2016. But this process is changing. I, for one, have been checking the federal websites daily for news on the program.

If you have been following the federal announcements, you already know that there will be a cap of 10,000 applications for 2017 and that the program is set to re-open on January 3, 2017. This information remains in place but there are major changes in the way you submit an application and in the way your application is selected for assessment or not.

In the past, such as 2016,

completed applications would not be accepted before the actual opening date of the program and it was on a first-come-firstserved basis. The system was highly competitive and our firm was fortunate to have several completed applications accepted for assessment. If anything was missing or questions unanswered, the entire application would be returned. This system had its advantages and disadvantages and was something we all faced annually. The intake system has been reworked for applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents in 2017. It is important to understand the changes.

In an announcement made on Wednesday, December 14, 2016, IRCC reaffirmed its commitment to family reunification but also announced major changes in the program. The cap of 10,000 applications is unchanged but the

submission and selection process has been reworked. Minister John McCallum explained: “We’re listening to what past applicants had to say and making the process fairer for people who want to sponsor their parents or grandparents. We’re ensuring everyone can access the application process by giving them the same chance to have their name chosen.”

Thank you Minister for listening. What about other options? IRCC could have approached the problem in a different way. What about getting rid of the artificial cap and processing applications according to demand? This is an alternative approach, but not one that we face at this time.

The sponsorship of parents and grandparents will reopen on January 3, 2017. However, IRCC is not soliciting or accepting applications at that time. Rather interested parties must wait for the January 3, 2017 opening of

an online profile submission option, which sounds much like the expression of interest option we have become accustomed to for skilled workers applying to the federal express entry system, or those submitting profiles to MPNP. We do not know at this time the questions to be asked as part of the profile but we understand that there will be at least a 30-day time limit to perfect your submissions and ensure that they are complete.

The next step is to wait for IRCC to make a decision about which profiles they select. IRCC will not select profiles on the basis on points but rather make random selections.

This selection therefore is based on luck or a lottery system. If you are lucky, you are picked and invited to apply. If you are not lucky or the 30-day window has closed, your only option presumably is to wait for 2018.

Is this system fairer than the one in place for 2016 or

2015? We have to wait and see.

There are obvious advantages, especially for IRCC to deal with backlogs. Profile submissions are not applications as such and therefore IRCC has no continuing responsibility to those not selected. For practitioners and users alike, the challenge is to wait and see what is involved in the online profile submission.

It is the new way of doing things.

Once you have completed this and pressed submit, you sit and wait to find out if you were one of the lucky 10,000. Happy New Year, and good luck with your online submission.

Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant 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

2016: an overview January 2017. 2016 is in the bag. I’ve wrapped it up with a nice little bow and put it away for safekeeping. Will I want to open it up again sometime soon? Maybe when I’m feeling nostalgic.

What were some of the highlights of 2016 for you? Did your anak graduate from high school or university? Did you take a memorable trip somewhere exotic? No, Fargo doesn’t count.

Did you purchase your first new car? Have a baby? Our collective memories may differ, but in the end, it’s great to be able to look back and cherish those memories for years to come.

For the Burgos’ we had another busy year. By far, the biggest story was the conclusion of our Human Rights complaint this past spring. Elizabeth and I were very happy to have closed that chapter, which was the better part of two years. Our goals from the very beginning were to introduce Transgender

guidelines and education in schools across Manitoba, to do so, it would need to come from the top – the Manitoba Human Rights Commission.

We achieved our goal, albeit challenging at times since we now live a few provinces away.

Hopefully, those changes will create ripples across the country.

To this day, we still get calls from media asking about Bella’s case.

We’re happy to share our story, with the hope that it helps others going through the same thing.

For me, I celebrated my 41st birthday. I could now officially be considered “over the hill.”

When I was younger, I pictured myself in my 40’s with grey hair and a bad back. I couldn’t have been more wrong. Granted I didn’t get white hair, but I wouldn’t know because, well, I’m bald. The back is holding up just fine. It could be that I don’t have to shovel snow anymore – sorry had to say it (at the time of writing, a big blizzard hit

Southern Manitoba).

Another milestone was something I’ve wanted to check off my bucket list for a long time. I was finally able to visit Seattle, Washington. We did so during the kids’ spring break. My goal was to order a cappuccino at the very first Starbucks, sit on the pier and watch the sunset. I got as far as getting to Seattle, taking a picture in front of the long line at the flagship Starbucks store – with no cappuccino in hand.

It turns out I can’t drink coffee, as it makes me ill. I got close enough, and thankfully, that wasn’t at the top of my list. What was?, you ask?.

As you may have read, we took an impromptu summer road trip down the West Coast of the United States. That, my friends, was numero uno on my list. I’ll say it again, the Oregon Coast is one of the most beautiful places around. It made my drive with cranky kids that much easier.

Little stops like camping at Beachside or little picturesque towns like Astoria or Seaside were absolute pleasures. We ventured south until we hit San See DALE p7

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Mould attack A family of a new-immigrants and a University of Manitoba student, Roan Beverly E. del Rosario, recently moved out of their rented apartment because of various health complications due to mould. They reported the issue to the landlord, but their request to remedy the situation was ignored and they were only told to use a humidifier. After two years of battling diarrhea, colds, flu, and skin diseases, they finally decided to move out of the mould-laden apartment and purchase a home in May 2016.

Mould is a part of the natural outdoor environment. It breaks down dead organic matter, such as fallen leaves and dead trees.

However, mould growth should be prevented in the indoor environment. Moulds reproduce by means of microscopic spores that float through outdoor and indoor air. Mould may grow indoors when these spores land on wet surfaces such as wooden window jambs, ceilings, and walls. Moulds only grow in the presence of water or moisture. If

DALE...

From page 6 Francisco. Tours of Fisherman’s Wharf, the Painted Ladies and the Golden Gate Bridge will serve up happy memories for years to come.

We made pit stops near Sacramento, Lake Tahoe and Reno. All the while, Americans were asking me how Canadians felt about the upcoming election.

At the time, Clinton was in a comfortable lead and Trump was an entertaining sideshow. I didn’t offer my two cents as I’m not an

the wet areas are dried within 24 to 48 hours after a leak or spill, in most cases, mould will not cultivate.

Just as Roan’s family experienced, mould have the potential to cause health problems because it produces allergens, irritants, and mycotoxins. Physical contact with mould may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals whose responses may include sneezing, runny nose, red eyes, and dermatitis. Mould can also trigger asthma attacks and can irritate the eyes, skin, nose, throat, and lungs of both mouldallergic and non-allergic people.

Dead mould might still cause allergic reactions in some people, therefore it is not sufficient to just kill the mould; it must also be removed completely.

You may be suspicious of hidden moulds if your home smells mouldy but you cannot see the source, or if there was a recent water damage. Mould may be concealed in locations such as the underside of carpets and pads, the backside of drywall, the top-

side of ceiling tiles, inside walls around leaking or condensing pipes, the surface of walls behind furniture, inside ductwork, and in roof materials above ceiling tiles.

Mould and moisture prevention and control tips • Quickly dry wet spots as soon as water leaks occur or moisture collects on windows, walls, or pipes.

• Keep indoor humidity between 30% and 50%. Relative humidity can be measured with a hygrometer, which can be purchased for $25 to $50 at most hardware stores • Check if the ground slopes away from the foundation walls • Clean roof gutters and downspouts regularly • Vent clothes dryer and gasfired hot water tanks and furnaces to the outdoors • Use air conditioners and / or de-humidifiers when needed • Turn on the exhaust fans or open the window when showering or cooking • Increase air movement with fans or opening doors and / or windows, when practical • Insulate cold water pipes • Increase air temperature Inspecting hidden mould problems may be challenging

eligible voter, but the consensus was that the election provided hours of laughter and at times, serious banter. I could tell many were afraid to see what would happen if Trump would win.

They shuddered to think. Little did they know what would the results would be on November 8, 2016. I think a lot of people are still in shock.

In September, a quick visit back to Winnipeg, where we celebrated my little brother’s wedding. A small wedding in Kildonan Park was all that was needed. The intimate setting was

enough for family and friends to celebrate the special day.

In all, it was a great year.

The only difficult part for me…I deeply miss the family gatherings around the Christmas holidays.

I’ll keep 2016 packed up and store it at the back of my closet.

One day, when I’m cleaning, I’ll find it and look through it with a big fat smile.

I’m looking forward to 2017.

Let’s do something great.

Dale is the director of communications for a school district in BC and continues to write from afar.

and will require attention when it involves disturbing potential sites of mould growth. If you suspect that you may have a hidden mould problem, consider hiring an experienced mould

remediation professional.

Norman Aceron Garcia is a Professional Engineer of Mr. Peg Property Inspections Inc. Please e-mail norm@mrpeg.ca for free technical consultation.

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Welcoming the new year with feng shui Now that the New Year is here, you may find yourself pondering the past year and you may be counting your blessings or thinking about what you could have done differently.

If you’re like me, you might do a little of both.

Whatever the case, it’s important to start the New Year off on a positive, hope-filled note.

This can include everything from stocking the refrigerator to clearing out old junk from the closets. If you missed the January 1st deadline, don’t worry: the Chinese New Year isn’t until the third week of January, so you’ve still got time.

To greet the New Year, set aside a couple of hours to give your house, bedroom, or office a New Year blitz. Just remember, you are inviting a very special guest to your house: The New Year. So treat your house the way you would a very important dignitary.

This is a new year of your life so welcome it in a grand way.

Take the list below in hand and check off the items one by one. Remember to get everyone in the house in on the act.

OUT WITH THE OLD 1. De-clutter Grab a laundry basket. Next, set a timer and take it with you from room to room. Set it for five minutes. Now, start throwing out old papers, magazines, empty bottles of shampoo from the bathroom, old clothes you know you’ll never wear again! Do it.

Got CDs you never listen to?

Throw those out or donate them to charity. Have some old coffee mugs that don’t match or odd drinking glasses still hanging around in your cabinets? Pitch ‘em.

When in doubt, throw it out.

Don’t forget to look under the bed, too! And toss that lipstick you haven’t worn in two years!

Remember to clean out the pantry, too, and toss that half-empty box of Rice Krispies that’s gone stale.

2. Sweep or vacuum Get the old energy out by making the floors clean.

3. Do the laundry Don’t have dirty clothes hanging around. You can throw in a load or two while you declutter.

Be sure to fold and put the clean clothes away.

4. Clean the bathroom Make it sparkle. You don’t want a nasty mess to greet the next year of your life!

5. Empty all trashcans Don’t want last years’ trash hanging around, do you? Toss, toss, and toss.

6. Clean out the refrigerator Got an almost-empty jar of apple butter or mango chutney?

Get rid of it. You don’t want to go into the New Year with old food or a mouldy science project lurking in the fridge. Check out the fridge makeover and see if it doesn’t inspire you!

7. Clear out visual clutter Too much stuff everywhere?

Clear off the counters in the bathrooms and kitchen. Clear off your desk and dust it. Pitch the sticky notes and papers and things taped everywhere! You can do it. Don’t forget the refrigerator!

Make it a blank slate.

Make as much space as possible. You cannot bring in new things if there is no room for it and we want a fantastic year, right?

Then make your space “open” for the abundance of the New Year!

8. Yard work Make sure the yard is picked up and the front door step is swept and clear.

9. Change the sheets and towels Put clean sheets on all the beds on New Year’s Eve and clean towels in the bathroom and kitchen. New sheets are even better.

10. Clean the car This is what gets you around during the year. Drive through a car wash, take out the trash and do a quick cleaning.

All done? Wow, doesn’t that feel good! Now you’re ready for the next step.

IN WITH THE NEW! 1. Fill your pantry and kitchen Stock the refrigerator with food and make sure the pantry is also stocked. It is bad feng shui to have an empty refrigerator and pantry. If you have canisters in the pantry or on the countertops, be sure to fill these.

2. Got citrus?

Oranges are excellent symbols for the New Year and the Chinese often celebrate the New Year by rolling oranges (symbols of gold) into the house. Place a big bowl of 8, 9, or 10 (the numbers of prosperity!) oranges in the living room or central location in the house next to dishes of nuts or candies to symbolize an abundant, fruitful home.

3. Buy a new plant Put a beautiful new plant in the East (health & family relationships) sector of your house or office to symbolize a healthy beginning. You can also display some beautiful flowers here to symbolize your good health in the coming year.

4. Welcome good news Place a golden bell in the NW corner of your home, office, or bedroom to bring good tidings from helpful people. Like old school bells? If so, place one of these in the NW corner of your yard for good news from helpful people.

5. Hang up new calendars What better way to greet the New Year than by throwing out the old one? Take down all of last years’ calendars.

6. Fill your wallet You don’t want to go into the New Year with an empty wallet.

Put some money in your wallet – or better yet – go and buy a new wallet (red is the best!) or purse and start your financial off with new energy!

7. Invite a toad to your house Place an old, broken clay pot upside down next to a waterspout so a toad can make its home here. Toads are believed to invite money into the household; they’re especially nice by the door. You can also place figurines of toads by the door.

8. Feed the birds Birds are excellent feng shui and believed to bring good news.

Fill your feeders or put out a feeder for the New Year.

9. Have fun and celebrate Fun is good feng shui. A happy vibrant home or space is a good space, so plan a party of some kind of happy gathering.

Remember, a home or office with good feng shui is easy to spot it’s the one where everyone goes and doesn’t want to leave. Make your space that kind of place.

FENG SHUI FOR YOURSELF 1. Avoid resolutions. Begin with the belief that all is as it should be right now, that you are perfect already. Instead, incorporate one or two small changes. Even small steps can have a big impact.

2. Count the blessings of you.

Write down 100 things you like about yourself. Do it. Trust me, there are a lot more than 100 great things about you. For starters,

you’re reading a feng shui E-zine.

That tells me you’re open-minded and willing to try new things.

3. Say what you want in small ways. Want more love? Sign off all your emails with “Love, Sally.” Or, maybe it’s friendship you want; sign off as “Your friend.” Give what it is you want this year.

4. Be friendly. Friendliness draws people and good circumstances to you. When I was young, driving through Texas I often saw signs on the road that said, “Drive Friendly, the Texas Way.” I love those signs. Wave and smile at people you pass as you drive like you did when you were a kid. Move over and let people pass and when someone lets you in traffic or allows you to pass, wave at them. Give a trucker a break. See a big rig signalling to merge? Let him in.

5. Do that one thing you know you’ve been putting off. There is nothing worse than having something hanging over your head. There’s usually one thing that gets in your way of feeling successful and like you have a handle on life – so take care of that one thing. Go on. You know what it is. Get it done once and for all.

6. Be nice to yourself. What would make life nicer for you?

Find ways to pamper and love yourself. I like hot tea in the wintertime, but I got tired of running downstairs to the kitchen.

So, I set up a little tea tray upstairs with a hot water pot and an assortment of teas and some of my favourite ginger thin cookies.

It’s a little treat that tells me “I love me.”

7. Be nice to others. Feed the birds, set up a recycling centre, volunteer. There are so many ways to be nice to others – from donating money to good causes to mowing an elderly neighbour’s lawn. I like to walk around my neighbourhood and pick up trash to keep the neighbourhood clean.

8. Set a goal. Making wish lists of what you would like to do is wonderful because just

the act of writing things down makes the wishes more concrete, taking it from the random firings of neurons in your brain to real tangible words on paper. It’s amazing what happens by doing just that one act. Put the list where you can see it and take steps toward each wish. By next year, it might surprise you how many of these things come true.

FENG SHUI Q&A Question: What’s your favourite New Year activity, Katie?

Answer: Drinking champagne. Seriously, I love some bubbly!

Besides the sparkling wine, when the house is really clean and all the Christmas decorations are all put up, then I feel like I’m ready to greet the New Year. It’s important to me that my house has plenty of room for growth and that dead plants are removed and that we make small updates and changes to bring new life to the house and improve our enjoyment, too.

Whether it’s simple fixes like hinges that need to be replaced or putting in new organizers, these simple changes energize my house – and me – and make my family and me more comfortable.

We also make sure we have a good day on New Year’s Day – celebrating with a great dinner, relaxing together watching the parades on TV, or doing something fun. The house has been cleaned and organized and we look forward to a great day together. That’s my favourite activity – living better and seeing the New Year come in clean and comfortably.

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!

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 9

PAGE 10

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Casarap Grill celebrates Christmas with the Jollibee team

Casarap Grill owners Olan & Josie Gutierrez and their staff

Casarap Grill owner Josie Gutierrez (3rd from right) with the Jollibee Ellice team

Team Casarap Grill and Team Jollibee Ellice

Our special guests from Jollibee Ellice

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 11

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ

PAGE 12

PILIPINO EXPRESS

Tapos na ang Pasko. Sabi nga ng matatanda ay lugmok na ang nayon. Butas na ang bulsa ng mga Pinoy. Pero ang pinakamahalaga, sa kabila ng kakapusan ng mas nakararami sa atin, ang kultura ng Paskong-Pinoy na pagpapaligaya sa kapuwa ay buhay na buhay pa rin.

Dumating na ang Bagong Taon. Ipagpag natin ang lahat ng hindi kagandahang pangyayari sa kasalukuyang taon at bigyan natin ng puwang ang pag-asa sa ating puso na ang taong 2017 ay magiging payapa at produktibo para sa ating lahat.

Sa isang masusing pagbabalanse ay napatunayan na mas pinaghahandaan natin ang pagpitada ng Bagong Taon.

Sinasalubong natin ang New Year na may mga putukan.

Naghahanda tayo ng mga prutas na puro bilog.

Sabi ng iba ay huwag tayong maghahain ng manok sa hapag.

Kakalaykayin daw kasi noon ang ating kabuhayan sa papasok na taon. Huwag din daw magsasama ng mga prutas na maasim.

Aagawin daw noon ang tamis ng ating pakikipagrelasyon.

Unang-una, ano naman ang

kinalaman ng manok sa ating kabuhayan? Anong prutas din ang walang sangkap na asim na kaagawan ng tamis?

Ang bawal ay ang maging tamad, ang pangangarap na hindi kinakambalan ng aksiyon, ang paghahangad na tumama nang milyun-milyon sa lotto pero hindi naman tumataya.

Isang mapagpalaya, mapayapa at mabiyayang 2017 po para sa ating lahat! *** Busog na busog sa mga negatibong komento ngayon si Mocha Uson mula sa mga tinatawag niyang bashers at trolls.

Ayaw siyang tantanan, talagang pinabubundat ng mga ito ang kaniyang tiyan sa masasakit na mensahe, dumidighay na siguro ngayon ang nagpapaseksing singer.

Magtanim ka nang malakas na hangin at bagyo ang aanihin mo. parang paglalaro lang ng pelota ang buhay. Kung gaano kalakas ang pagpalo mo ng bola sa pader ay iyon din ang siguradong babalik sa iyo.

Tinawag niyang bugok ang mga hindi sumasang-ayon See CRISTY p15

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

• 2017 – Bawal ang maging tamad sa gustong umasenso • Mocha Uson – Dinaig pa ang pamilya ni Pres. DU30 sa porma • Manny Pacquiao – Inendorso ni DU30 na President-to-be sa 2022 • Direk Carlo J. Caparas – Abangan ang pelikula ng El Shaddai • Regine Velasquez – Marunong tumanaw ng utang na loob • Karla Estrada – Anyare? Bakit parang pinakawalan sa kusina?

• Kris Aquino – Bumalik kaya ang ningning ni Kris ngayong 2017?

• Sharon Cuneta – Pumapayat na si Mega para sa movie nila ni Gabby • BB Gandanghari – Kahawig na ngayon ni Carmina • Nora Aunor – Hindi sinuportahan ng Noranians ang Kabisera sa MMFF

President Rodrigo Duterte & Senator Manny Pacquiao Sharon Cuneta

Claudine Barretto

Karla Estrada Mocha Uson

Kris Aquino

Gabby Concepcion

Nora Aunor & Paolo Ballesteros

BB Gandanghari

CONTACT US

(204)275-5555

1-866-724-2080

info@mosaicfunerals.ca

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

CRISTY...

From page 12 sa kaniyang mga opinyon, kabugukan din ang ibinabalik sa kaniya ngayon, at mas matitindi pang paglalarawan.

Maraming nagpadala ng text messages sa amin noong isang araw, hindi na namin babanggitin pa ang kanilang mga pangalan dahil kakapusin ang aming espasyo, pero sila ang mga lehitimong manunulat na minsang tinawag na “presstitutes” ni Mocha Uson.

Ayaw nilang patulan ang pabuka-bukakang singer sa entablado. Sayang na sayang daw kasi ang mahalaga nilang oras, kaya nga noong nagsalita siya sa isang pagtitipon ay naging abala ang mga media men.

May nagpunta sa CR, may tumutok sa kanilang gadget, nagkukuwentuhan ang iba at maraming nagsipagtaas lang ng kilay habang nagmamagaling sa pagsasalita si Mocha.

Eh, ano ngayon kung maraming kumokontra sa pagkakatalaga sa kaniya ng MMDA bilang ambassadress ng MMFF? Lahat ba ay inaasahan niyang sasang-ayon sa posisyong ibinigay sa kaniya?

Eh, ano rin ngayon kung kinukuwestiyon ang pinahawakang puwesto sa kaniya sa MMFF, wala na bang karapatang pumuna ang mga kababayan natin sa ipinagmamalaki niyang posisyon?

Nang tanungin si Mocha kung ano ang magagawa niya bilang ambassadress ng MMFF ay isa lang ang kaniyang tugon – pagiingay.

Komento naman ni SOS, “Talaga naman pong nakakabuwisit ang babaeng iyon, ang kapal po talaga ng mukha ng Mochang iyon! Kung makapagsalita siya, eh, parang walang problema sa kredibilidad niya.

“Kaya ang dami-dami niyang bashers! Kinukuwestiyon ang credibility niya, tinatanong kung

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

ano ba ang alam niya? Kasi nga, saan ba naman kasi siya kilala?

“Di raw ba sa pagtuwadtuwad sa entablado at panglalandi sa mga lalaking kinukuha niya sa audience? Nadikit lang ang pangalan niya kay Pangulong Duterte, feeling niya, eh, powerful na rin siya!

“Kung ang mismong family nga ng presidente, eh, low profile lang, di po ba? Kaya mahiya-hiya naman sana ang Mocha na ‘yan sa mga pinagsasasabi niya kung may natitira pa siyang kahihiyan sa katawan niya!” inis na komento ni SOS. *** Hindi na kailangang dumating ang Pasko para magbigay ng regalo ang isang taong natural nang may busilak na puso.

Pasko o hindi ay palaging bukas ang kaniyang mga palad sa pagpapasaya at pagtulong sa kaniyang kapuwa.

Iyon si Senador Manny Pacquiao para sa mga kababayan niya sa General Santos City, mula Enero hanggang sa katapusan ng taon ay nand’yan lang siya para dumamay sa mga pangangailangan ng mga kababayan niya, hindi pinagbago ng kasikatan at kayamanan ang Pambansang Kamao.

Kuwento ng mga kaibigan naming nagtatrabaho sa Senado ay ang room ni Senador Pacquiao ang palaging pinipilahan ng mga kababayan nating nangangailangan ng ayuda.

Sabi pa nito, “Sa Senate, alam na alam mo kung sino ang mambabatas na madaling lapitan.

Palaging may pila sa kuwartoopisina niya. Iyong mga kilalang sarado ang mga palad, walang kapila-pila!

“E, si Senador Manny, hindi nawawalan ng pila sa office niya.

Madali kasi siyang hingan ng tulong, maraming nagpupuntahan sa kaniya dahil napakabukas ng palad niya,” sinserong kuwento ng aming source.

Kaya naman patuloy ang pagbaha ng mga biyaya para sa ating kampeong boksingero,

lahat ng tulong na ibinibigay niya ay ibinabalik din sa kaniya ng kapalaran, mas maramingmaraming doble pa nga.

Katwiran ni Pacman, kapag nawala tayo sa mundo ay walangwala tayong madadala, ang tanging maiiwanan lang natin ay ang magagandang alaala mula sa mga taong minsan isang panahon ay nasagip natin sa matinding kagipitan.

Buong-ningning na inendorso ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte si Senador Manny Pacquiao bilang “president-to-be” para sa taong 2022. Kuwarenta’y tres anyos na ang Pambansang Kamao sa susunod na presidential election.

Nakikita raw kasi ni Ka Digong na malaki ang magagawa ni Senador Pacquiao para sa ating mga kababayan, hawak daw ng Pambansang Kamao ang disiplinang kailangang pairalin sa pamumuno ng ating bayan, pati ang walang kakuwesiyunkuwestiyon niyang katapangan.

Pero isang masayang ngiti lang ang itinugon ng senadorboksingero sa mga papuri ng ating pangulo, para sa kaniya ay napakarami pa niyang dapat matutuhan, hindi pa siya hinog sa panguluhan. *** Gusto naming mapanood ang Miracles Are Forever, ang pelikulang idinirek ni Direk Carlo J. Caparas na hinati sa tatlong bahagi, ang tatlong kuwento ay hango sa libro ng mga milagro ng El Shaddai.

Pumayag ang tagapamuno ng

El Shaddai na si Brother Mike Velarde kina Direk Carlo at Tita Donna Villa na maisapelikula ang tatlong magagandang istorya para patunayan sa publiko na nagaganap ang mga milagro sa ating buhay.

Sa isang episode ay nagpakitang-gilas sina Yassi Pressman at Mark Neumann, sa isa pang bahagi ay si Assunta de Rossi naman ang nagpamalas ng galing sa pag-arte, pero sa tatlong episode ng Miracles Are Forever ay mas nakapangiimbitang manood ang kuwento ng Mamasapano SAF44 Untold Story na pinagbibidahan ni Richard Gutierrez.

Bukod kina John Arcilla at Sid Lucero ay nakasasabik panoorin ang mga anak na aktor ng mga personalidad na mayroon nang napatunayan. Si Raf Fernandez ni Daboy, si Gabriel de Leon ni Christopher, si Elvis Gutierrez ni Tito Eddie at si CJ Caparas ni Direk Carlo.

Nasusubaybayan namin ang mga pagtitipon ng El Shaddai sa telebisyon. Nararamdaman namin ang matinding pananampalataya ng mga miyembro ng grupo ni Brother Mike na nagwawagayway ng panyong puti at nagsasahod ng payong nang pabaligtad para sa biyayang gusto nilang matanggap, gusto naming mapanood iyon ngayon sa malaking telon.

Bukod sa magagaling na artistang kinuha nina Direk Carlo at Tita Donna para sa trilogy ay gusto uli naming maramdaman ang walang makakukuwestiyong

PAGE 15 husay sa pagsusulat ng istorya ni Direk Carlo J. Caparas na nagsimula sa mga komiks, na pagkatapos ay naging pelikula na, kaya kaniyang-kaniya lang ang titulong Komiks King. *** Sa kabila ng kaniyang kaabalahan ay nagagawan pa rin ng paraan ni Regine Velasquez na bigyan ng pagpapahalaga ang mga taong katuwang niya sa kaniyang propesyon.

Kailan lang ay binigyan niya nang sapat na oras ang kaniyang mga designers at stylists, nagpaparty ang Asia’s Songbird sa mga nag-aasikaso sa kaniyang mga gown kapag mayroon siyang concert, pati ang mga nag-aayos sa singer-actress sa kaniyang mga lakad.

Mga kaibigan din ng anakanakan naming si Ogie NarvaezRodriguez ang mga designers at stylists na pinasaya ni Regine.

Panay-panay raw ang kuwento ng mga ito tungkol sa kagandahan ng puso ng singer-actress, bibihira na nga lang naman ngayon ang mga personalidad na naglalaan ng panahon sa pagpapasalamat at pagtatawid ng utang na loob.

Masasarap ang ihinandang pagkain ni Regine, nakahanda na rin ang mga basket na pangNoche Buena ng kaniyang mga bisita, at isang gabing hindi makakalimutan ang inikutan ng kanilang mga kuwentuhan.

Napakasarap namnamin ng mga papuri sa talikuran.

Lumalaganap iyon sa buong See CRISTY p19

PAGE 16

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Pinoy Photographers of Winnipeg 5th Christmas party

Photo by AJ Batac Winnipeg

Jerry & Laling Medina’s family Christmas celebration

CAPITAL...

From page 1 bill include treason, qualified piracy, qualified bribery, parricide, murder, rape, kidnapping and serious illegal detention, robbery with violence, destructive arson, plunder, carjacking, importation of dangerous drugs and paraphernalia, sale, trading, distribution and transportation of dangerous drugs, maintenance of a drug den, manufacture of dangerous drugs, and cultivation or culture of plants classified as dangerous drugs.

Leyte Rep. Vicente Veloso, whose subcommittee helped draft death penalty bill, said he would also like to include crimes such human trafficking, illegal recruitment, plunder, and economic sabotage.

Oriental Mindoro Rep. Reynaldo Umali, justice committee chairman, said in a television interview, “We will further refine it… It will still undergo a long legislative process. I am certain that what the House will eventually pass

will be different from what we have approved in the committee.”

“Not all those found possessing illegal drugs would face the death penalty,” he said.

Opposition Rep. Edcel Lagman of Albay accused the justice committee of railroading the measure.

“The positions of the various resource persons and organizations against the death penalty were never discussed by the mother committee,” he said. “The fundamental question on the existence of compelling reasons for the revival of the death penalty as required by the Constitution was never answered.

In fact, there would never be compelling reasons to abrogate life and derogate the sanctity and inviolability of life,” said Lagman.

Senators Francis Pangilinan, Risa Hontiveros and Leila de Lima are expected to oppose the bill.

The Catholic Church is also opposing the return of the death penalty.

“We would continue with our anti-death penalty campaign and

inform the politicians that this is not the solution to our problems,” said Manila Auxiliary Bishop Broderick Pabillo.

Batangas Archbishop Ramon Arguelles said he has already communicated the Church’s position to Batangas lawmakers.

“I am confident that all the Batangueño congressmen and women will oppose the reimposition of the death penalty,” he said.

Vice President Leni Robredo said in early December, “It seems the committee rushed the approval of the bill to accommodate the wishes of the President… We question why the House committee on justice approved the bill even though its proponents failed to show sufficient evidence and studies to support how the death penalty is a deterrent to crimes.

They also failed to sufficiently answer questions of those who oppose the bill,” she added.

The National Union of Peoples’ Lawyers (NUPL) said the death penalty has never been a deterrent to crime and called it “an archaic form of punishment”

in a letter to the editor of the Philippine Daily Inquirer on December 29. “Experience shows that crime rates continued to rise even during the time that the death penalty was in force, said Ephraim Cortez, NUPL secretary general.

President Duterte, who is pushing for re-imposition of the death penalty, has implied that capital punishment was unsuccessful in the past because it was not used often enough, saying he would have five or six executions daily.

“Restore it and I will execute criminals every day – five or six.

That’s for real,” said Duterte at a birthday celebration for Senator Manny Pacquiao in General Santos City on December 17, 2016.

Ephraim Cortez of the NUPL pointed out that worse than being ineffective, “the death penalty is an instrument of injustice considering that only the poor, the oppressed and the marginalized… the same segment of society who cannot afford to engage the service of competent lawyers of their choice, are the only ones

who are convicted and sentenced to death.

“The absence of competent legal representation, combined with a legal and judicial system that is tainted by partiality and corruption, makes this same segment of society vulnerable.

In the end, only the poor and innocent would basically face the gallows, while the notorious and guilty ones would be spared.”

Cortez said the NUPL represents clients who are often arrested, charged and singled out for prosecution because of their political beliefs. They are charged with contrived criminal complaints by state forces and/ or their state agents to force their silence. And many of them are being charged with common crimes punishable by death under the approved bill.

Meanwhile, although the president’s bloody drug war has already in effect executed more than 6,000 people since his election last May – in police operations, vigilante murders, and extrajudicial killings – the drug problem persists.

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 17

A Love to Last ABS-CBN opens the year 2017 with the premiere of the muchawaited family drama, A Love to Last, on Primetime Bida. Bea Alonzo tops the bill with leading man Ian Veneracion.

Andeng Agoncillo (Bea Alonzo), is a successful events organizer.

Unfortunately, her ideal fairy tale love story didn’t have its happy ending after she caught her fiancÊ cheating on her days before their wedding. But despite this, Andeng remains hopeful that love will still come her way.

Anton Noble IV (Ian Veneracion), meanwhile, thought he had already found love. After many years of marriage, his wife, Grace (Iza Calzado) decides to leave him and demands an annulment. He is then left with their three children and becomes a single father. Fate then brings them together in the most unexpected time and place.

Joining the cast of A Love to Last are Enchong Dee, Julia Barretto, Ronnie Alonte, JK Labajo and Hannah Vito.

Iza Calzado

Enchong Dee

Ronnie Alonte

Direk Jerry Lopez Sineneng

The cast. l-r: Bea Alonzo, Ian Veneracion, Hannah Vito, Julia Barretto and JK Labajo.

Ilocandia Association of Winnipeg Christmas Party

The officers and members of Ilocandia Association of Winnipeg celebrate Christmas and the holiday season. The Players Course - December 10, 2016

PAGE 18

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Celebrating kindness and generosity, welcoming newcomers Several community groups celebrated the holiday season spreading love and friendship with newcomers from all over the world, including the Philippines and Syria.

Over 600 guests attended the Welcome to our Bagong Dating event held on Dec. 4, 2016, at Daniel McIntyre Collegiate (DMCI).

The Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba Inc. (PHCM), Pinays MB Inc. Friends of Filipino Immigrants in Manitoba, and DMCI hosted the event.

Community resource representatives provided information to help the newcomers settle in their new home country. Being uprooted and moving to a new country takes a lot of energy and time to re-establish, and the PHCM aims to ease their transition.

From a report by by Paul Macaraeg (PRO for PHCM)

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

EH KASI, PINOY! PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 19

2016: Ang taon ng mga pekeng manunulat at mga sirkero Bago pa man maging uso ang social media ay nandiyan na ang mga katulad kong mga simpleng manunulat na nagpapahayag ng mga totoong impormasyon, balita at nagsasambulat ng mga paniniwala at paninindigan sa pamamagitan ng pahayagan o media. Noon, kailangan mong magtapos ng kursong journalism o related na courses para ka mapasok sa mga media networks.

May practicum, on-the-job training at mga pagsasanay bago ka isabak sa mundo ng pamamahayag.

Napakacompetitive ng industryang ito. Marami ang mahuhusay magsulat, may magandang mukha para sa TV at may magandang boses para sa radio.

May dangal ang mga manunulat.

Nirerespeto sila ng taumbayan dahil sila lamang noon ang tanging source ng information na makukuhanan ng bayan.

Napakahalaga ng propesyon sa media – ang pamamahayag ng

CRISTY...

From page 19 kapaligiran. Kaya naman mula noon hanggang ngayon ay nandito pa rin ang isang Regine Velasquez.

Namamayagpag pa rin siya sa kabila ng mga nagdaratingang magagaling na singers, paborito pa rin siya ng buong bayan, lalo na ng mga becki. *** Text ng isang anak-anakan namin, “‘Nay, nanonood ka ba ng Christmas Special ng ABS-CBN? Watch ka, tingnan mo kung gaano kasyuba si Karla Estrada!”

Salamat, salamat, Bhoyzee Caragay.

Nag-switch kami ng channel, umalis muna kami sa HGTV, nasa gitna ng entablado sina Karla Estrada, Jolina Magdangal at Melai Cantiveros, nagho-host sila, kapansin-pansin nga ang sobrang laki ng nanay ni Daniel Padilla.

Pagdikitin man ang katawan nina Jolina at Melai ay mas malapad pa rin si Karla, nakaumbok pa ang kaniyang sobrang yaman na bilbil, tama ang punto ng mga tagahanga ni Enrique Gil na unahin munang asikasuhin ni Karla ang kaniyang katawan bago ang paninira sa kanilang idolo.

Hindi namin alam kung bakit lumapad nang husto si Karla, nakakapagpalapad ba ng katawan ang mga biyayang dumarating sa kanilang pamilya dahil sa anak niyang si Daniel Padilla?

Palagi bang nakatambay si Karla sa kanilang kusina? Kung bakit naman ipinalabas pa ang Christmas Station ID ng Dos, naka-sleeveless pa si Karla, kaya

patas at makatotohanang balita.

Itong nakalipas na taon ay kapuna-puna ang naglilipanang websites, bloggers at facebook pages na nagmimistulang circus.

Natatawa na lang ako sa mga fake na balita sa Internet at sa mga self-proclaimed commentators sa social media. Nagkalat din ang plagiarism o ang ilegal na pangongopya ng mga artikulo.

Si Senator Sotto ay nabuking sa kaniyang speech na kopya lamang pala at ang asawa ni Donald Trump ay nasilat din sa kaniyang paggamit ng ilang bahagi ng speeches ni Aling Michelle. Parang prank write ups na lang lahat ng makikita mo at mababasa mo sa social media.

Hindi mo na malaman ang totoo at peke.

Noong panahon ng eleksyon sa Pilipinas at sa US ay marami ang nagkalat na mga pekeng pictures na dinoktor lang. Halimbawa, may mga pictures na akala mo ay napakaraming dumalo sa kanilang

kitang-kita ang mga nagmumura niyang braso sa laki.

Nalilibang yata ang nanay ni Daniel sa kakakain, mas interesado kaming bigyan ng malasakit ang kaniyang kalusugan, makasasama sa kaniya ang sobrang pagtaba.

Sabi pa ng isang miron, “Iyon ang dapat niyang tinatanggal, ang mga taba-taba niya sa katawan, hindi si Quen na kasama sa group picture, pero tinanggal niya sa ipinost niyang picture!” *** Nasa ibang bansa man ngayon si Kris Aquino na kasama ang kaniyang mga anak para sa isang masarap na bakasyon ay siguradong nasa Pilipinas pa rin ang kaniyang utak.

Hindi naging mabait kay Kris ang nakaraang taon, naganap sa kaniyang buhay at career ang isang karanasang kahit siguro sa kaniyang panaginip ay hindi inakala ng aktres-TV host na magaganap, ang mawalan siya ng network.

Hanggang ngayon ay isang malaking tandang-pananong pa rin para sa mas nakararami ang kinauwian ng kaniyang career noong 2016. Sino nga ba ang mag-aakala na sa isang iglap lang ay mawawalan pala ng trono ang isang nagrereyna-reynahan?

Totoong-totoo ang kasabihan na hindi lahat ng biyaya ay naiipon lang sa iisang tao. Milyonarya si Kris, sikat, pero hungkag naman ang kaniyang puso.

Nasa ganoong estado siya pero puwede rin palang dumating sa kaniya ang pagkakataong mapagsaraduhan ng pintuan ng matatawag na balon ng kaniyang mga biyaya.

Nasira tuloy ang kapaniwalaan

mga rallies pero tatatlong piraso tao lang pala. Na-photoshop lang pala ang mga litrato. Nagkalat din ang mga naggagandahang kababaihan at kalalakihan sa Internet. Akala mo’y mga artista pero kapag nakita mo ang tunay na mga itsura ay malayo ang mga ito sa mga litratong pino-post sa social media.

Ang grammar na nakakabadtrip.

Noong estudyante palang ako ay isang kahihiyan sa akin ang mag-submit ng aking assignments sa aking guro nang may maling grammar. Hindi ako mahusay na estudyante; average lamang ako. Pero napakaimportante sa amin noong araw ang malinis na pagkakabaybay at pagkakasulat ng aming mga artikulo, mapa-Ingles man o Filipino. Kailangan tama ang grammar, otherwise mamumula sa corrections ang iyong isinulat.

As much as possible, pinipilit naming sumulat nang naaayon sa pinag-aaralan naming rules.

May kalayaan kaming sumulat ng gusto namin, pero dapat ito’y nasa maayos na pagkakasulat.

Pero ngayon, magdadalang-

hiya ka sa mga nababasa mong articles sa websites at social media na hindi mo mawari ang diwa. Minsan ay kitang-kita ang pagpupumilit. Minsan gusto mong tulungan pero maiisip mo baka maka-offend ka. At kung pupunahin naman ay babanatan ka ng ibang off-topic na reply at magiging personal ang atake. Dito naman pumapasok ang cyberbullying. Kapag napag-initan ka sa social media ay aatakihin ang buo mong pagkatao. Ang choice mo ay lumaban sa kanila, patulan sila, i-ignore, i-block ang mga haters mo at ang ultimate ay i-deactivate ang iyong account.

Nakakalungkot na ang mundo ng Internet ay naging tambayan ng mga iresponsableng mga tao.

Ang kalayaan ng pamamahayag ay may kaakibat na responsabilidad.

Kung pampubliko ang ipinahayag ay responsabilidad ito ng nagsulat.

May pananagutan ang sumulat sa kaniyang sinulat.

Ilang beses na bang napabalitang namatay si Jackie Chan? Ilang beses na tayong nakabasa ng mga news na

nananalo na raw si Roxas o Duterte a week or days before the election? Ilang patay ang binuhay ng social media dahil sa mga tweets from dead people? Ilang pranks ang ating napanood?

Ilang kasaysayan ang binaluktot ng social media?

Ilang bayani ang ginawang bayani sa kabila ng karahasan at kalapastanganan na iniambag ng mga taong ito sa human race?

Nakakalungkot. Pero tuloy ang pagsusulat ng mga tunay na manunulat.

Hindi sa number of likes and views ang basehan ng tunay na pamamahayag kundi nasa katotohan ng konteksto nito.

Si Noel Lapuz ay dating OFW sa Middle East (Dubai at Qatar).

Nagtrabaho nang sampung taon sa City Hall ng Taguig bilang Human Resource Management Officer. Naging bahagi ng Bata-Batuta Productions bilang manunulat, entertainment host at stage actor. Nagtatag ng Kulturang Alyansa ng Taguig. Kasapi ng Ecumenical Movement for Justice and Peace (EMJP).

na - What Kris wants, Kris gets - dahil dinaot ang kaniyang career sa taong 2016. Pero panapanahon lang naman ‘yan. Baka sa 2017 ay ngumiti na uli sa kaniya ang kapalaran.

Baka sa kaniyang pagbabalik ay mayroon na palang matatawag na mother studio si Kris Aquino.

Walang mayhawak ng bukas.

Lahat ay posibleng mangyari. *** Nagpista ang mga tagahanga nina Sharon Cuneta at Gabby Concepcion nang ibalita namin sa Cristy Ferminute na kumpirmado na ang kanilang pagbabaliktambalan sa Star Cinema.

Sa isang iglap ay dinagsa na kami ng mga song request (Throwback Thursday kasi iyon), pakipatugtog daw namin ang P.S. I Love You at Dear Heart, ang unang dalawang pelikulang pinagtambalan nina Gabby at Sharon.

See CRISTY p20

Nominate a deserving Pinay Pinays MB Inc. will recognize the achievements of two Filipino women on Saturday March 4, 2017 in honour of International Women’s Day. The organization will begin accepting nominations of special Pinays in our community on January 2, 2017, Pinays MB Inc. is a dynamic empowering group for Filipino Women in Manitoba.

Their executive membership is comprised of women from different organizations here in Manitoba. The vision and purpose of creating this group is to have a resource within the community to help support and guide Filipino women of all ages.

International Women’s day is celebrated yearly. This day is marked to celebrate the social economic, cultural and political achievements of women. The Pinays MB group marked their first event in honour of International Women’s Day, on March 12th 2016. The group formally launched Pinays MB Inc. by hosting a luncheon to recognize and acknowledge the achievements of two women in our community who have been instrumental in paving the way for awareness of Manitoba and growth of the Filipino community in Manitoba.

Nominate a deserving Pinay in our community for 2017!

For more information, e-mail pinaysmb@yahoo.com or phone: Perla Javate, 204-955-5603; or Tes Aiello, 204-988-5739.

EH KASI, PINOY

PAGE 20

PILIPINO EXPRESS

KROSWORD

HOROSCOPE

NO. 267

ENERO 1 - 15, 2017

Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot

PAHALANG 1. Pantay 4. Piraso 7. Bitak 8. Lasa 11. Tawag sa titser 14. Ipapapuna 16. Tiyahin 17. Nakakabarik 18. Huwag aminin 19. ’di luma 21. Ugali 23. Puno 24. Ganda 26. Habag 27. Ingay ng palaka 29. Sindi 31. Huni ng daga 32. Hango 34. Sigaw ng karatista 35. Bitin PABABA 1. Papipintigin 2. Agipo 3. Bendahe 4. Wasto 5. Ilaan

6. Sumasalungat 9. Agrabyado 10. Mamatay 12. Si Cardo 13. Panghalip 15. Hilera 20. Himok 22. Babag 24. Patnubay 25. Init 28. Bulalas ng nabigla 30. Laslas 33. La Union

SAGOT SA NO. 266

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Aries (March 21 – April 19) Bantayan mo ang iyong kalusugan sa buwan na ito.

Iwasan mo ang magalit dahil puso mo ang pinapahirapan mo. Kailangan mong umupo at tumayo nang deretso ang likod dahil iyan ang magpapahirap sa iyo pagdating ng araw. Alagaan mo ang puso mo. OK ang ika-5, 6, 13 at 14.

Alalay ka sa ika-11 at 12.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Alam siguro ng mga nakapaligid sa iyo na hindi ka mahirap hiraman ng pera. Napansin mo bang marami sa kanila ang dumadaing sa iyo?

Dapat ay nakikita mo ang motibo.

Marami sa kanila ang hindi naman totoong nangangailangan. Matuto kang magsabi ng “hindi.” OK ka sa ika-5, 6, 13 at 14. Bantay ka sa ika-1, 7 at 8.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Ngayon na ang panahon upang baguhin ang mga dapat palitan sa buhay mo. Walang mangyayari kung ipagpapabukas mo na naman dahil malamang ay hindi mo na ito gawin. Ikaw ang nagdurusa at hindi sila. Kung OK lang sa iyo, bahala ka. Masaya ang ika-5, 6, 13 at 14. Kuwidaw ka sa ika-2, 3, 9, 10 at 15.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Huwag kang pipirma ng anumang kontrata o legal na kasulatan sa buwan na ito.

Masaya at magaan ang pera para sa iyo ngayong Enero pero hindi mo puwedeng ipang-shopping o gastahin para sa luho. Ipunin mo ang sobrang pera dahil kakailanganin mo ito. Lucky ang ika-7, 8 at 15. Ingat ka sa ika1, 7, 8, 13 at 14.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Ibaling mo ang atensyon sa iba at mararamdaman mong gagaan ang iyong pasanin.

Minsan kung laging sarili mo lang ang naiisip mo, pakiramdam mo’y tila pasan mo ang problema ng mundo. May mga kasama kang mas matindi ang dalahin pero hindi ito halata.

OK ang ika-7, 8 at 15. Alalay ka sa ika-2, 3, 9 at 10.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Buwenas ang bagong taon para sa iyo. Gugulatin ka ng mga darating na buwan dahil magiging maayos ang takbo ng buhay.

Romansa, negosyo, kalusugan, pamilya – lahat ay tatakbo ng ayon sa nais mo. Matuto ka lang sanang kumilatis sa mga lalapit sa iyo. OK ang ika-7, 8 at 15.

Stressful ka sa ika-5, 6, 11 at 12.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Alamin mo sa mga propesyonal kung paano mo malilinis ang iyong utak at damdamin. Hindi ka ba nababahala? Masaya ang nagdaang kapaskuhan pero bakit malungkot ka? Kadalasan ay may gamot para sa nararamdaman mo.

Huwag mo nang palalain pa. OK ang ika-1, 9 at 10. Kuwidaw ka sa ika-2, 3 at 15.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) Ang kabiguan sa pag-ibig ay nagiging dahilan din ng sakit, hindi lamang sa emosyon kundi maging sa pisikal na katawan.

Wala kang magagawa kung ayaw na niya sa iyo. Nataon pang bagong taon. Makakabangon ka rin sa kalungkutan, asahan mo.

OK ang ika-1, 9 at 10. Ingat ka sa ika-5, 6, 11 at 12.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) Wala kang dapat asahang ibang tao kung nais mong m a g t a g u m p a y.

Ikaw ang may hawak ng susi ng iyong bukas. Buwenas ang bagong taon at sa kamay mo nakalagay ang mga baraha mong lalaruin. Patahimikin mo muna ang iyong puso at isip bago ka magdesisyon. OK sa ika-1, 9 at 10. Ingat sa ika-7, 8, 13 at 14.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Sa oras na maramdaman mong pagod ka, magpahinga ka agad. Minsan ay sintomas ng sakit ang pagod ka palagi. Mag-focus ka sa mahalaga at huwag mong bigyan ng atensyon ang walang kuwenta. Kulang ang oras; gamitin mo nang maayos at nang sumaya ka. OK ka sa ika-2, 3, 11 at 12. Stressful ka sa ika-5 at 6.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) Kung pakiramdam mo’y nawala ang balanse mo sa isip at katawan nitong mga nakaraang buwan, pilitin mong ibalik dahil magiging mabagal ang takbo ng negosyo at pati personal mong buhay.

Iwasan mong maging kalat-kalat ang iyong isip. Lucky days mo ang ika-2, 3, 11 at 12. Bantay ka sa ika-1, 7, 8, 13 at 14.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Ang kakampi mo? Sarili mo.

Ang kalaban mo? Sarili mo rin. Maayos ang takbo ng buhay pero may panganib na mapasama dahil sa kawalan mo ng pasensya.

Madali kang mainip. Tandaan mo, walang nagtatagal lalo na kung sa madalian ito nakuha. OK ang ika-2, 3, 11 at 12. Ingat ka sa ika-9, 10 at 15.

sa ABS-CBN. Sila mismo ang nagpatotoo sa amin na napakalaki na ng ipinayat ngayon ni Sharon Cuneta.

Sa personal daw ay mas kapansin-pansin ang malaking ibinagsak ng timbang ngayon ng Megastar. Hindi naman masasabing maliit na maliit na ang bewang ni Sharon, pero kumpara noon ay napakalaki ng iniliit ng kaniyang katawan, pati raw ang braso ng singer-actress ay hindi na nagmumura sa katabaan.

Kailangang karirin ni Mega ang pagpapapayat dahil malapit nang simulan ang shooting ng pelikula nila ni Gabby Concepcion. *** Malapit nang mapa-sign of the cross ang kaibigan naming nakakita kay BB Gandanghari sa isang mall sa Amerika. Umalis

kasi ito ng Pilipinas ay Rustom Padilla pa ang pagkakilala nito sa aktor, alam naman nito ang kuwento, pero iba pa rin daw kapag personal mo nang nakita ang pagbabagong-anyo ni Rustom.

Nasa women’s section si BB Gandanghari, bumibili ng mga underwear, may kasama siyang guwapong lalaki na sa tingin ng aming kaibigan ay isang Mexicano.

“Alam mo, na-shock talaga ako! Alam ko naman na nagpalit na siya ng gender, kuwentuhan iyon sa opisina namin, pero iba pa rin kapag nakita mo na mismo ang isang taong lalaking-lalaki noong umalis ka, pero girl na girl na ngayon!” reaksiyon ng aming kaibigan.

Ang payat-payat daw ni BB, See CRISTY p22

CRISTY...

From page 19 Sabi ni Rein Cortez ng Dimples Fishcrackers na pati ang pirma ng Megastar ay plakadung-plakado, “Ako ang magbubukas ng sinehan sa unang araw ng showing ng movie nila!

Pagkatapos ko sa isang sinehan, lilipat pa ako sa iba, panonoorin ko uli iyon!”

Hindi naman nagpakabog si Bradly Guevarra na tanging si Sharon Cuneta (sige na nga, pati si Sheryl Cruz!) ang ginagawang inspirasyon sa buhay.

“Ito na iyon! Pagkatapos nang napakahabang paghihintay!

Directed by Cathy GarciaMolina! Napakaligaya ko!” komento ni Bradly.

Nagkakuwentuhan kami ng mga dati naming katrabaho

EH KASI, PINOY!

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Bagong Taon, bagong pagasa sa gitna ng hirap at ginhawa.

Panibagong pagkakataon ng pagbabago tungo sa buhay na maganda ang inaasahang maging bunga. *** Sanhi sa hindi raw inaasahang snow fall this season, ang Winnipeg City ay nabalitang nahaharap sa malaking budget problem. Halos naubos na raw ang nakalaang pera na pinambayad sa street cleaning na dulot ng December 6 snow fall. *** Ang outgoing US president, Barack Obama ay nagbabala.

Gaganti sa Russia. Ang isyu ay dahil umano sa tuwirang pakikialam ng Russian president, Valdimir Putin sa nakaraang US presidential elections. *** Sa ika-20 ng Enero nakatakda ang simula sa katungkulan ng 45th president of the USA, Donald Trump ng Republican Party.

Pilipinas Pagbati ng “Merry Christmas” kung panahon ng Pasko ang ang waring malapit sa katotohanan.

Ang “Prosperous New Year” ay bulaklak na lang ng dila? Wala nang mahirap, kung nagiging totoo. *** Ang nakababahala ngayon sa mga mamamayan ng Pilipinas ay tungkol sa tensiyon na dulot ng politika sa bansa at mga nagaganap na iringan ng China at USA sa South China Sea. *** Nakakasawa na ang political drama na nangyayari sa dalawang kapulungan ng kongreso. Ang pangunahing layunin ng Duterte’s declared war against illegal drug trade ay para maayos at maging maganda ang kinabukasan ng mga kabataan at mga sanggol

PILIPINO EXPRESS

pang isisilang.

Sa loob at labas ng bansa, ang kampanya ng gobyerno kontra illegal drug trade ay suportado ng maraming Filipino. *** Naalala ko ang sinabi noon ng nationalists na former senator Claro M. Recto. Sa ilalim daw ng presidential system ng gobyerno, may tatlong paraan para ang pangulo ay mawalan ng kapangyarihan: by God, impeachment, and rebellion. *** Bagaman napapanahon ang kampanya vs illegal drug trade, ang death penalty na sinusulong sa kongreso ay hindi dapat mangyari.

Labag sa 10 Utos. “Huwag papatay ng tao.” Pagbibilanggo na lang sa nagkasala ang dapat.

Alalahaning humigit-kumulang sa 80 per cent ng taumbayan sa bansa ay Kristiyano. *** Hanggang hindi nababago ang sistema ng gobyerno na nakapaloob sa 1986-87 Constitution, walang pag-asang magkaroon ng katahimikan at umunlad ang kabuhayan ng mga Filipino sa sariling bayan.

Kung pagbabatayan ang mga nararanasang problema ng bansa sa kasalukuyan, higit na maganda ang nilalaman ng 1935 and 1973 Constitution kumpara sa 198687 laws ng Corazon Aquino revolutionary government. *** Sobra na. Tama na ang kaguluhang nangyayari na dulot ng maruming politika. Sa tuwing nagpapalit ng administrasyon, hati kaagad ang taumbayan.

Sa totoo lang, nasayang ang pagkakataon na magbago ang sistema ng gobyerno pagkaraan ng EDSA-1 peaceful revolution.

Ang maraming bilang ng taumbayan ay lalong nalubog

sa kahirapan. Nangibabaw ang kasakiman sa pera ng mayaman at ng mga namahala sa bayan. *** Magsisimula na sa mga araw na darating ang pagsisikap na pagbangon ng LP na layong maging totoong official opposition party sa ilalim ng liderato ni Sen. Kiko Pangilinan and VP Leni Robredo as titular head ng partido. *** Dahil sa sinabi ni President DU30 na kailangang maimyendahan ang 1987 Konstitusyon. Bigyan ng higit na karapatan ang pangulo sa pagdedeklara ng Martial Law. Nanawagan naman si Ms Robredo sa taumbayan na huwag payagan.

Aba, kahit ngayon po, ang pangulo ay may karapatang magdeklara ng Batas Militar, batay sa Article VII, Sec. 18 ng 1987 Konstitution.

Katas Iba’t ibang senaryo ng politika ang pinipinta ng LP na naghahangad makabangon sa pagkakadapa mismo sa kanilang tuwid na daan.

• Pangunahin sa kanilang motibo ay mapatalsik sa kapangyarihan si President Duterte sa pamamagitan ng iba’t ibang pamamaraan.

• Sa ibayong dagat kumakampanya ng suporta.

Kahit opinion lang ang sinasabi ay inaaring katotohanan at pinalolobo.

PAGE 21 • Si VP Leni Robredo ay nangako, kung baga daw sa mga ibong nagliparan, sabi’y kaya niyang mapabalik sa dating pugad.

• Nagpapakita ng waring malasakit tungkol sa kalusugan ng pangulo. Hiniling ni Leni na ipasuring mabuti ang karamdamang taglay ni Digong kung kararapat pang manatiling pangulo.

Kasabihan Ang baho ay baho. Tiyak mangangamoy kahit anong tago.

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.

Florence Nightingale neighbourhood Christmas party, Northwood Community Centre, December 17

HINAGAP

Bagong Taon Habang nakalingon sa taong nagdaan, Ang lumang panahon ay naging mapanglaw; Pinasang hilahil na malaong taglay, ay bagong panahon naman ang papasan! *** May pangako naman ang bagong panahon, Na kusang iniwan ng nalumang taon; Di maiiwasang tanggapin ang gayon, Ano mang pamana ng pagkakataon! *** Sa bagong panahon buhay ang pag-asa; Na ang kabuhayan sana’y guminhawa, Mahalinhan naman ang malaong dusa, Ng palaging mithing tunay na ligaya! *** Ang mapaklang bunga ng tinanim noon, Sana ay matamis ang matikman ngayon!

Paquito Rey Pacheco

Members of the Florence Nightingale at Shaughnessy Heights neighbourhood association celebrate the holiday season at the Northwood Community Centre, December 17, 2016. The group recently elected new officers, Fernando Mendoza & Ronald Alora (co-presidents), and Elizabeth Lumbrera & Carol Raymundo (co-secretaries & treasurers).

PAGE 22

OUR COMMUNITY PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

Educating our educators MAFTI hosts information panel for internationally trained edicators

By Judianne Jayme On December 3, 2016, the Manitoba Association of Filipino Teachers, Inc. (MAFTI) hosted an event with the intent of providing career development for educators. The event took place at the Seven Oaks Adult Learning Centre, 950 Jefferson Ave. The room was filled with 75 internationally trained teachers planning to become teachers, teacher assistants or educational assistants in Winnipeg. Moderators Mary Jane Napolitano (MAFTI Chair on Professional Development) and Ernesto Ofiaza Jr. (MAFTI President) introduced the panellists for the evening:

CRISTY...

From page 20 seksing-sexy, maliliit ang mga braso at binti. Babaeng-babae na nga ang dating mister ni Carmina Villaroel.

Tanong ng aming kaibigan, kahit minsan daw kaya ay hindi naamuyan ni Carmina ang tunay na gender ni BB, habampanahon daw bang barado ang ilong ng aktres?

“At may hawig siya kay Carmina ngayon, ha? Puro pink ang binibili niyang underwear, nakakaloka talaga, sinusundansundan namin siya ng mga anak ko habang nagsi-shopping,” natatawa na lang na komento ng aming kaibigan.

Posisyon ng pamilya ay tanggap na nila ang naging kapalaran ni Rustom, kung saan siya maligaya ay hindi na kokontra ang kaniyang ina at mga

Lorelei Bunkowsky - Principal, Amber Trails Community School Gemma Dalayoan - former Vice Principal of Sisler High School and MAFTI Past President Charles Bendu - Vice Principal, Transcona School Division Joanne Bañares Esteban HRIS/Staffing Advisor, Winnipeg School Division Praveen Alahakoon Academic Advisor, Immigrant Teacher Education Program Loreta Genota – Teacher, Shaughnessy Park School Navjeet Kambo - Learning Support Staff, Amber Trails Community School The group discussed

topics such as the qualification recognition process for international degrees, the hiring process in various school divisions, and what other career pathways are available for internationally qualified educators. Panellists also shared their personal success stories and challenges that they have faced as educators in Manitoba. There was also opportunity for questions, answers, and networking over lunch.

Congratulations to MAFTI for a successful event that provides opportunity for growth for our educators.

Photos by Seven Oaks Immigrant Services, Jasmin Masangcay

kapatid, pero mayroon silang kundisyon.

Huwag na lang sanang ipakilala pa ni BB Gandanghari sa kanila ang lalaking nagpapaligaya sa kaniya ngayon.

Tama nang alam nila ang milagro, huwag na lang nilang makita ang santo, ganoon ang kanilang paninindigan ngayon. *** Kundi ba naman talagang inaalat ang mga pelikulang lahok sa MMFF. Sino ba ang mag-aakala na makikieksena pa ang bagyong Nina sa mismong Kapaskuhan?

Napakaraming araw na puwedeng manalanta ang bagyo, pero tumiyempo pa sa Pasko, kung kailan may ipinagdiriwang ang buong mundo ay saka pa ito nakisali.

Malaking kabawasan sa kikitain sa takilya ng walong pelikulang lahok sa MMFF ang

hindi kagandahang klima. Kung iyong wala ngang bagyo ay tamad na tamad na silang lumabas ng bahay dahil sa sobrang trapik, iyong may bagyo pa kaya, lalong hindi na lalabas sa kalye para manood ng sine ang ating mga kababayan.

May hagupit sa umpisa pero may bawi sa bandang dulo ang komento ng isang kaibigananak-anakan naming nanood ng pelikula ni Nora Aunor sa MMFF. Ang kaniyang sabi, “Nakakaanim na pelikula na ako mula noong Pasko. Itong kay Ate Guy, marami-rami naman kami sa pinagpanooran kong sinehan.

Okey na sana, kaso, nalaman namin ng kasama ko na kaya pala kami umabot nang beinte, eh, libre ang mga senior citizens.

“Ganoon pala sa Makati.

So, malinaw na kaming apat na magkakasama lang pala

ang nagbayad, the rest, eh, free admission na.

“Uulitin ko lang ang madalas kong sabihin sa iyo noon na nand’yan pa rin naman ang mga Noranians, aktibo pa rin naman sila, pero iyon nga lang, hindi sapat ang bilang nila para gawing hit ang pelikula ng idolo nila.

“Publiko ang susi sa pagkita ng pelikula at wala nang publikong sumusuporta kay Nora Aunor. Sa totoo lang tayo.

Magpakatotoo na tayo.

“Pero in fairness, magaling si Nora Aunor sa Kabisera. Siya ang saving grace ng pelikula.

Isang malaking kahangalan na hindi man lang binigyan ng grade ng Cinema Evaluation Board ang Kabisera.

“Kahit man lang sana Graded B, eh, binigyan ang movie niya dahil hindi naman pipitsugin ang obra ni Nora Aunor,” papuri ng aming anak-anakan sa pagganap

ng Superstar.

Isang kaibigan namin na maraming taon nang namumundok ang dumalaw sa kaniyang pamilya nitong Kapaskuhan.

Natural, nagkayayaan silang magkakamag-anak na manood ng mga pelikula sa MMFF, pinili nilang panoorin ang Die Beautiful na pinagbibidahan ni Paolo Ballesteros.

Ang komento ng aming kaibigan, “Fifteen years na akong hindi nakakapanood ng sine, ngayon na lang uli, nakakaaliw ang Die Beautiful! May dapat ika-insecure sina Vice Ganda at Bossing Vic Sotto kay Paolo Ballesteros!

“Ang galing niya, suwabe ang timing, kaya naman pala rumarampa siya sa mga international competition!

Magaling ang becki!” superlatibong papuri ng aming kaibigan. – CSF

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017

PILIPINO EXPRESS

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PILIPINO EXPRESS

JANUARY 1 - 15, 2017