Pilipino Express • Mar 16 2016

Volume 12 • No. 6 • March 16 - 31, 2016 Publication Mailing Account #41721512

Valeen Montenegro

Filipino program first in Canada

By Lucille Nolasco It was a pleasant surprise for Ferdie and Ching Calayag when their five-year-old son David suddenly spoke Tagalog one day.

He and elder brother Gabriel, 11, understand the language but they rarely speak it.

“We were talking in the car when David said ‘Hindi!’ (No!).

So we asked him something and he replied, ‘Opo!’ (Yes!)”, said Ferdie. “Since then he often uses Tagalog words mixed with English to express himself at home.”

Even before David made a habit of using Tagalog words, the brothers like to play a translation game, wherein their parents would say a word or a phrase in Tagalog and Gabriel and David would take turns translating them to English.

See FILIPINO p9

12

Filipino-Canadian children like Gabriel & David Calayag can now learn more about their heritage in Filipino bilingual classes in the Seven Oaks school division

Pinay pioneers of Manitoba A celebration of women in our community

By Judianne Jayme

12

Xian Lim & Kim Chiu

On Saturday, March 12th, two Filipina pioneers in Manitoba were celebrated at the Skyview Ballroom of the Ramada Marlborough Hotel. Women and men (playfully called allies) came to network, empower, and learn from each other’s experiences and shared history. This was See FILIPINO p18

Mrs. Fe Ryder (left) and Ms Hati Custodio

MB Pinays’ Perla Javate presents plaques to Fe Ryder and Hati Custodio (for Mrs. Carolina Custodio)

NOEL CADELINA Sales, 6th Consecutive SMG Gold Ring Awardee

LITO DABU

Sales, & Leasing Consultant 5th Year SMG Gold Ring Awardee

JOEL SIBAL Service Consultant

ROBERT MISA

Triple Diamond Sales Consultant Award 2014 - Gold Winner

NELSON LANTIN Sales Manager

ROMMEL FAJARDO

Sales Manager

MA. LEE HOLGADO JEZREEL “The Jet” Sales Advisor REYES Sales Advisor

ELAINE VERRI

Sales Consultant

JOELAN MENDOZA Collision Repair Advisor

PAGE 2

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

Move-In Ready Homes

73 Masallia Dr. Elev A

M ov e-

187 Bitterfield Dr. in

M ov e-

Elev A Re

in

ad y

Re

ad y

Artists Rendering Not exactly as shown

www.kensingtonhomesltd.com

$499,000

2385 sq.ft., 3 bedroom, 21/2 bath, plus loft - 2 storey home

Includes lot, net GST, 20’x22’ garage, pile foundation, concrete driveway and walk, 9’ main floor ceilings, corner soaker tub in ensuite, main floor study, maple stained cabinetry, and large kitchen island.

$363,900

1645 sq.ft., 3 bedroom, 21/2 bath, 2 storey home

Includes lot, net GST, 20’x22’ garage, pile foundation, concrete driveway and walk, maple stained cabinetry, raised breakfast bar, extended foyer, main floor laundry, walk-in pantry, plus much more.

Vlad Mostkov (204) 292-6775 Sutton Group Kilkenny

Sabie Brar (204) 990-5230 RE/MAX Executives Realty

Amber Trails Waterford Green Castlebury

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 3

PAGE 4

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

The angry candidate

Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte is an angry man. So angry that he cannot keep himself from cursing publicly, even during rallies, even during live media interviews, and even during his official endorsement as standard bearer of the Partido Demokratiko ng Pilipinas-Lakas ng Bayan (PDP-Laban) during which he actually cursed at Pope Francis.

Duterte has since asked for forgiveness from the Catholic church, but he has explained that his curse was not directed at the Pope himself but at the situation in which he and thousands of others had found themselves during the Pope’s visit to Manila; stuck in traffic for hours because the government had closed major roads and did not plan for how the stranded people would be able to move. “You closed two main avenues without planning for the people who would be affected,” he tells a huge crowd that gathered at a rally in Tacloban City on March 14. “Women and children were made to walk and

even relieve themselves on the streets. And what for? Just so you can show other countries that you’re important?”

Everyone by now knows that he loves to curse, but the mayor has this to say about his colourful language: “You can listen to my epithets, my curses, but if you look behind me I carry the people who have long suffered from government neglect. I am angry at government, and that’s why I curse. Wouldn’t you curse if you were angry?” The Tacloban crowd cheers enthusiastically, some of them shouting out their own curses as well.

Duterte has many things to be angry about. His unlikely run for the presidency centres on three things: corruption, drugs, and crime. These three problems, he says, are what weigh the country down and keep it from progressing. “In this country it is optional to follow the law,” he tells the crowd. “In the Philippines today… corruption has really eaten into every facet of life. Dito sa Pilipinas (Here

in the Philippines), for those who deal in corruption and crime, obedience of the law is optional.”

He says there are three tiers in Philippine society: those on the top are those who deal in corruption, do not pay taxes, and get away with anything. These are those who flout the law without fear of reprisal from government because they are rich.

Those on the bottom are the “lowlifes:” kidnappers, drug pushers, and other criminals.

These are the dregs of society and are able to get away with their crimes because government is unable and unwilling to stop them.

“Ang naiipit ang ordinaryong tao na walang kilalang general, walang kilalang mayor, walang kilalang governor, walang kilalang militar (Caught in the middle are the ordinary people who do not know any general, mayor, governor, or military officer),” Duterte says. It is for them that he is running for President, he adds.

Being from Mindanao, he is particularly critical of how government has treated the south. Duterte says the island contributes 54 per cent of the country’s total exports in agriculture but receives only a small percentage in the form of

the Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA). “We can’t enjoy our own money because everything is centralized. Ang masakit, ninanakaw pa (The worst part is that the money is being stolen),” he says. “Pinaghahati-hatian ng mga corrupt officials (Corrupt officials divide the spoils among themselves).”

Duterte says if the corruption continues, “hiwalay-hiwalay na lang (it’s better if we just parted ways).” But he is unwilling to do that, he adds. In each campaign rally, he approaches the Philippine flag and touches it. “How can we unite under our flag if our money is being stolen? We have different cultures, but because we are one nation, the flag is what binds us together. But they (corrupt officials) are stealing our money.”

In each rally Duterte repeats his promise to get rid of corruption within four months of becoming President. “I hold it as an article of faith that there will never be progress unless we get rid of criminality, drugs, and corruption,” he says.

Jon Joaquin is the Associate Editor of EDGE Davao, the newest daily newspaper in Mindanao. He is currently following Duterte in his nationwide campaign. E-mail Jon at jonjoaquin@gmail.com.

CIC changes name and direction Even though I have spent most of my working life in the world of Canadian immigration there is always something that catches me by surprise. Are you accustomed to thinking of federal immigration department as Citizenship and Immigration Canada or CIC? If you are, then get ready to change your thinking because the name of the department has changed.

The department has been renamed Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Use of the new name began soon after the Liberals became the governing party in November 2015, but its use is becoming more and more apparent in 2016.

The IRCC mandate does not really differ from that of the CIC. The IRCC still controls the arrival of immigrants to Canada, provides protection to refugees, and offers programs to help newcomers

settle in Canada. It also covers the granting of citizenship, issuing travel documents (passports) to Canadians and promoting a multicultural Canada. All readers should be aware that the old acronym “CIC” and the new IRCC are not two separate departments.

They are the same department of the federal government.

The inclusion of “refugee” in the name of the department is a reflection of the immigration act or Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). Refugees are very much a part of our historical past as a country and current immigration efforts have resulted in the arrival of 25,000 Syrian refugees to date. The new name clearly reflects an intention on the part of government to honour the objectives of the Act, which includes reunification of families, immigration of skilled workers and protection of refugees within the overall objectives of IRPA. There is every indication that the government is equally committed to other classes of immigration to the country.

There is still a whole range of

immigration – family class, skilled worker and business immigration – to attract the brightest and best around the world and also to work towards the reunification of families. The current government has doubled the number of sponsorship of parent and grandparent applications they will accept in 2016 to 10,000 from the 5,000 used for 2014 and 2015. The change is not just from CIC to IRCC but also to a change in attitude to something that in practice is pro-immigration.

Furthermore, Minister McCallum announced on March 8, 2016 that the government has an ambitious program to bring in between 280,000 and 305,000 new permanent residents in 2016 – so much for the restrictions on federal skilled worker applications, parent and grandparent sponsorships and refugee resettlement.

We are in a different time and a different approach to immigration. I am sorry that the CIC became associated with the anti-immigration efforts of the former Harper government because it was an acronym that fit our proud past. We can look forward, however, in confidence

that the change in name is more than superficial. The same Minister McCallum just weeks ago made the announcement about rolling back the negative changes in the Citizenship Act and now we are treated to new numbers and a new resolve to meet them. I think it is a welcome relief for all Canadians from the Conservative approach that greatly curtailed immigration to the country and tried to cover it all by giving us “Express Entry,” which is fast for the few but left little or no hope for the rest.

Thank you to the government.

And, yes, we can all get used to the new name. Especially if it means that immigrants are no longer the whipping boys for failed government policy. We don’t need walls around Canada but the bridges that Prime Minister Trudeau is restoring.

Michael Scott BA (Hon), MA, is a 30-year veteran of Canada Immigration and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program who works as an immigration associate with R.B. Global Immigration Consultants Ltd. (204) 783-7326 or (204) 227-0292. E-mail: mscott.ici@ gmail.com.

1045 Erin Street, Winnipeg, MB Canada R3G 2X1 Phone: 204-956-7845 Fax: 204-956-1483 E-mail: info@pilipino-express.com www.pilipino-express.com Publisher

THE PILIPINO EXPRESS INC. Editor-in-Chief

EMMIE Z. JOAQUIN Associate Editor

PAUL MORROW Art Director

REY-AR REYES JP SUMBILLO

Graphic Designer/Photographer 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

SALES & ADVERTISING DEPARTMENT

(204) 956-7845)

E-mail: info@pilipino-express.com www.pilipino-express.com Sales & Marketing Team ISAGANI BARTOLOME RODGE LOPEZ JAMES NEIL SOLIVEN The Pilipino Express is a Winnipeg based news-magazine published twice a month. Its contents do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion.

The Pilipino Express and Pilipino Sports Express are registered names.

Reproduction of any content and/or ad design published in the Pilipino Express is not permitted without the publisher’s written consent. Materials submitted are subject to editorial discretion and the publication accepts no responsibility for the return or safety of unsolicited artwork, photos, or manuscripts.

All rights reserved.

Annual subscription rate within Canada: $65.00 For advertising inquiries, call: 204-956-7845, fax: 204-956-1483 or e-mail: info@pilipino-express.com www.pilipino-express.com Printed by: The Prolific Group.

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 5

Why do people have sex?

Dear Ate Anna, My sister and I were talking about a friend of ours who is divorced and has become involved with a man but they are not planning to get married. We have tried to teach our teenage daughters about the importance of marriage and we don’t know what to say to them about this friend of ours. Why do so many people have sex outside of marriage?

Sincerely, Liza Dear Liza, Sexual relationships are a very complex matter! Ate Anna believes that people have sex for many reasons and that it is good for a person to reflect on why they are becoming involved in a sexual relationship before doing so.

Sex is how human beings reproduce. However, reproduction is not the only reason people have sex. A sexual relationship is one way for two people to show their love for each other. However, this can be true whether or not the two people are married. There have always been cultural rules about whether or not sex outside of marriage is acceptable. We also know that cultures are always in the process of changing. Today, technology and the media are speeding up that change.

All over the world these changes are affecting how people think about sexual relationships and marriage. There are people who now think it is OK to say that sex is also about experiencing pleasure or having fun. Some also believe that the two people don’t necessarily have to be in love, let alone married to each other.

Our sexuality can also be expressed in negative ways. A person might use sex to control or manipulate a partner or get involved in a sexual relationship as revenge against an ex-partner.

Sometimes a person agrees to have sex in order to avoid ending a relationship. Sometimes sex “happens” because drugs or alcohol distort a person’s judgment about their behaviour.

Sexual behaviour can also be used as a way of rebelling against parents.

However, we also have to remember that a young person might get involved in a sexual relationship because they care about their partner, out of curiosity, or the belief that everyone else is having sex. The media encourages this belief and, regardless of our age, we have to be careful not to believe everything we read or see in the media. Many adults worry that

their sex life is not as good as it should be because they believe the media’s unrealistic messages about sexuality.

So you see, Liza, sexual relationships are a complex issue. Each person has to make their own decisions based on their personal values. There are many influences that affect these decisions from religious beliefs to media messages. Parents’ beliefs often conflict with what the younger generation is seeing in the media or in real-life examples of other people’s decisions – like those of your friend. Even though it may not seem like it, teenagers do want to talk to their parents about things like: “How do I

know if I’m in love?” or “How do I decide when it’s OK to have sex?”

These are important issues for you to think about and discuss with your daughter. Perhaps you and your sister, together, can talk to your daughters about your values and how you feel about your friend’s situation.

Remember to use your listening skills but, most important, have a good conversation with your daughters. It is a wonderful way for each of you to work on your

mother-daughter relationship.

Take care, Ate Anna Ate Anna welcomes your questions and comments. Please write to: Ate Anna, Suite 200-

226 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 to many resources on the subject of sexuality.

PAGE 6

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

Swan song “We don’t meet people for a reason, they are meant to cross our path for a reason.” – unknown On March 12, 2016 the FMC-Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba held its second annual general meeting and technical presentations. It was the last event organized by the outgoing chapter executive officers.

For the past couple of years, I was given the opportunity to serve the chapter, along with seven passionate individuals, whom I met in different circumstances.

Of the seven, I have known May Jonson the longest. She was one of four female kababayans who got accepted to the ninth cohort of the IEEQ, and I believe I came to know her better when we got stuck in a queue to get our student ID. Though her discipline is in Civil Engineering and I was then transitioning from Electronics to Industrial, we managed to get together in four classes. Our bond was strengthened by frequent trips to coffee shops to get our fill of caffeine-laden drinks to survive those early morning classes.

May was actively involved with IT committee and was the goto designer for event tickets and posters.

During my first year back at the university, I made a conscious decision to take the bus every single day. It may not have been time-efficient, but I have a few good experiences from it. Meeting new people being one of them. It is in one of these bus rides that I got to know Alen Joson. He was also in the IEEQ program but in

a different cohort. I can’t exactly remember who said something first (most probably me) and what we talked about (most probably about IEEQ and mature students’ problems). His cooperation and full support to the chapter is very evident as he always has something to say whether he was present at the meeting or not; his presence is felt with his witty comments and suggestions. He would not only volunteer himself, but would also gleefully volunteer his wife at every chapter event.

I remember Angelito Velasco speaking at a chapter event in 2012, where he shared his inspirational story of being a casting operator to becoming a manager and how he worked towards getting his professional designation in Manitoba. When we were elected as members of the executive committee (Execom), there was no doubt in my mind that he would be the next chapter president. I was right and he turned out to be a very able and accommodating leader.

One fine Monday afternoon in the summer of 2013, 79 chapter members received an e-mail with a three-letter subject that read “PPE.” My inbox preview showcased a rare display of patriotism with this opening line, “Dear kapuwa ko Pinoy Inhinyero, Binabalak ko pong kunin…” And so without hesitation, I opened my mail where, aside from getting goose bumps, my eyes feasted on deep Filipino words. The e-mail was about a call for a group study on the National Professional Practice

Exam (NPPE). The sender quickly earned my respect and so even if I was still undecided at the time, I responded to his call.

Norman Garcia, is the epitome of a true blue Filipino. I went to a few review sessions with the group formed through that call.

Though I did not take the exam at the time, the review did not go to waste as it certainly prepared me when I did. He was the muscle of the Execom, promoting sports and health in every way he could.

He formed the first, and so far the only, but hopefully, not the last, Manitoba Marathon relay team of the chapter.

From that group review session, I met Nancy Santoyo, whom I fondly call “ate Nanz.”

Her hard work and strong support for the chapter is evident throughout – from planning, preparation and actual execution of ideas, you bet she would be there. She even stepped in to cohost one of the events when no

one was available to do so. Indeed a true show of dedication.

I could not recall when I first met Edwin Yazon, but when I did, I instantly noticed him exuding enthusiasm and positivity, which came in handy when tapped to host gatherings. His extensive social and business skills brought invaluable know-how to brainstorming sessions. And while he’s also busy with his fulltime job and businesses, he also keeps tabs on all the chapter’s records as the Vice-President for Communications.

When we assumed positions for the Execom, the majority of the members were Engineersin-Training. Edgar Duroni was one of only two professional engineers at the time, making him the Vice-President and President-in-waiting. He was shy, quiet and reserved, but witty and unassuming. Though his frequent business trips prevented him from attending some of our

meetings, he would make up for it by assuming some of the roles needed for chapter events.

It has been a great pleasure to work alongside each of them, who, in one way or another, contributed to the success and growth of the chapter.

On behalf of the Filipino Members Chapter, I would like to say thank you for all the time spent at every meeting, which, not only developed new ideas, but also developed into fast friendships. I look forward to seeing you flourish in your respective professional careers and continued involvement with 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)

FMC-Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba Execom 2014-2015 (not in photo - May Jonson)

Innovation and the educator: Always learning, learning adapting A colleague and I have been selected to be a part of a program called the Innovative Teaching and Learning Leaders Project, which focuses on innovation in the classrooms. The main text I am reading before our sessions is authored by George Couros (http://georgecouros.ca/blog/), a well known divisional principal who believes that leaders create other leaders. He focuses on building relationships, developing true leadership, and focusing on school as the “hub” of the community – and turning the school environment into a place that our kids need.

One issue Couros brings up is the lack of engagement in most classrooms. As a parent, you may have asked your child

what happened at school, and they reply with the flat, dreaded “nothing.” We can rationalize this by saying, “Oh, kids will be kids” or, “He just doesn’t feel like talking to me.” The truth of the matter is that kids who reply with “nothing” are not bursting at the seams with excitement over their learning day. They are simply not engaged with their learning.

As an educator, I am thrilled to hear when parents tell me, “My child has been so excited about this new series you’re teaching – (he/she) won’t stop talking about it!” This doesn’t happen all the time, certainly not in my first year of teaching, but it is becoming a sentiment I hear more and more often.

I want to clarify, I’m not a

miracle worker teacher – just an innovative one. As mentioned above, my first year of teaching was one in which I was learning to sink or swim through educational waters. Now that I have a good amount of tools and practice from teaching sixth grade for three and a half years by the time I’m writing this article, I have the flexibility to be truly innovative, to truly find ways to make content-learning engaging to middle years learners. Not an easy feat, not a perfect journey, but a fun path to keep learning along the way.

Parent tip: Innovation!

The book I’m currently reading for this program, The Innovator’s Mindset: Empower Learning, Unleash Talent, and Lead a Culture of Creativity by

George Couros, opens with a simple but direct quotation that I wanted to share with you.

“Once you stop learning, you start dying.” – Albert Einstein Today’s tip is not about your relationship with your children, but about modeling the importance of always learning something new. Why do we even stop learning? Learning forces us to look deep at our beliefs and practices and could seriously shake walls and foundations we’ve built. Learning will always bring change of varying intensity. Change doesn’t always feel pleasant at the beginning – that’s why they’re called growing pains.

My personal journey with learning and change is through multiple intelligences.

I’m

aware that I am skilled with logical reasoning, rhythm and music, linguistic and verbal skills. These past two months I’ve been pushing myself to develop in areas that I have not been strong: visual arts and kinesthetic movement. It is not an easy change, but one that I know is worth it for my personal development.

Couros explains that change is simply an opportunity for great things to happen. Take these ideas to heart these next two weeks. What field are you going to focus your learning on?

Where are great changes going to happen in your life?

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

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 7

Knob-and-tube-wiring

Knob-and-tube (K&T) wiring was a standard electrical wiring method in North America from 1880 to the 1940s. Back in those days when electricity was perceived to be just a passing fad, the common household electrical appliances were basic clothes irons, coffee percolators, teakettles and toasters. Fast forward to 2016, we now use clothes dryers, washing machines, ranges, refrigerators, dishwashers, microwave ovens, LED televisions, computers, electrical water heaters, furnaces, baseboard heaters, and air conditioners.

K&T wiring is comprised of insulated copper conductors running through lumber framing drill-holes with protective porcelain insulating tubes.

Nailed-down porcelain knobs support the wiring along its length. Rubber or flexible cloth insulation called “loom� protects wires where it enters a lamp or

switch, or where pulled into a wall.

Existing K&T systems are usually questionable for alterations meant to match the higher amperage loads required by 21st century electric appliances.

Most of these modifications were done by insufficiently trained Do-It-Yourselfers, whose workmanship made the wiring system susceptible to excessive amperage loads. To make matters worse, many homeowners installed fuses with resistances that were too high for the wiring to somehow adapt to the inadequate amperage of K&T wiring. The result of this kind of alteration is that the fuses would not blow and the conductor would be subjected to heat damage due to electrical overloading.

The hazards from this system are due to its age, substandard workmanship, and locations where wires are surrounded by building insulation. The

homeowner or an electrician must carefully get rid of any insulation that is found covering K&T wires. K&T wiring system has no ground wire and thus cannot service any three-pronged modern appliances. For this reason, it is not permitted in any new construction anymore. Most insurance companies will refuse to insure houses that have knoband-tube wiring except for houses where an electrical contractor has deemed the system safe.

If you find K&T wiring in your home, have the electrical system evaluated by a certified electrician immediately to verify if the system was installed and modified properly. Homeowners must carefully consider all their options before deciding to rewire their house, as it can cost thousands of dollars to job this job. However, unsafe wiring can cause fires, obscure estate transactions, and make insurance companies anxious.

K&T wiring must not be installed in equipment rooms, laundry rooms, washrooms, kitchens, or outdoors because the wiring must be grounded in these locations. Immediately replace brittle or cracked wiring.

Do not operate an excessive number of appliances in the home to minimize the risk of fire.

Potential home buyers must get a quote on replacing K&T wiring to upgrade it to an up-to-code electrical system, as they can use

this price to negotiate a lower price on the house.

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

PAGE 8

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

Feng shui and spring– cleaning program Spring-cleaning is one of those seasonal chores you feel great about once it’s done. The problem is, it takes time to do a thorough job. With family activities and a host of obligations outside the home, it’s hard to devote a large chunk of time to get cleaning the entire house all at once.

In reality, you don’t have to do everything in one weekend, and some chores should actually wait – making a prolonged springcleaning program efficient both in time spent and energy expended.

So consider these tips and ideas on how to schedule your springcleaning tasks and get a clean house and do away with the marathon-cleaning job!

March chores Because it’s still cool, set the oven self-cleaner one morning early. Then start decluttering and emptying closets and drawers of unused, unwanted items. Scrub marred walls, either with a mild cleaner or try an eraser type sponge to remove scuffs and nicks. Touch up with paint if necessary.

Follow up with intensive vacuuming. Sweep under beds and over upholstery and lampshades using a soft brush attachment.

Clean mattresses, windowsills, the tops of doors, under appliances, the coils on your refrigerator and baseboards with a long-handled brush attachment. Give the corners in each room a once over for cobwebs. Finally, clean all light fixtures and dust light bulbs and ceiling fans.

April duties Warmer weather starts to show up in earnest now, so you can move outside. In preparation for cleaning the garage in May, haul hazardous waste to your approved landfill or waste site. This can include anything from old computers to batteries, cleaning chemicals and paint.

This is an ideal time to clean windows. Using a squeegee and microfiber cloth, clean your windows inside and out with a diluted cleaning solution and polish with a microfiber cloth.

Indoors, organize the pantry, freezer, refrigerator, closets and drawers that you decluttered in March.

Install organizers, label jars and storage containers in the pantry and garage. Take comforters and coats to the cleaners, and when they come back, slip them in a spacesaving bag for easier storage.

May tasks Now the weather should be warm enough to tackle some bigger projects, especially outside.

Hire a professional to steam clean your dingy carpets. Have floor tile grout cleaned, too, if it’s showing some grime.

If you have a pressure washer, hose off sidewalks, the siding, porch or deck, and wash your indoor and outdoor garbage cans.

Check the gutters. Spend a sunny afternoon detailing your car and cleaning out the garage. You’ll love parking your sparkling vehicle in a clean and organized space!

Lastly, take a look at your entrance. Dust the door and light fixtures, repainting where necessary, and give your entryway a thorough cleaning. Add colour and interest with new plants around the door.

Tackle spring-cleaning with this handy checklist Even if cleaning isn’t your thing, you have to admit nothing ever feels as good as when the house has had a good purge and a deep clean. You feel lighter and the house seems easier to live in.

That’s the reward for all that hard work. Use this list to get some serious spring-cleaning done and enjoy the satisfaction that comes with it.

• Do a thorough purge. Before cleaning, do a major sweep through the house looking for doubled, broken, unloved and unused items. Be merciless. When in doubt, throw it out.

• Put away. Try to clear off as many horizontal surfaces as possible. This makes the house feel neater and makes it easier to clean.

• Start up high. Clean off tops of doors and doorframes, and sweep the corners of ceilings for cobwebs. Vacuum blinds; dust lampshades. Clean off glass light fixtures inside and out. Wipe down dusty heating vents.

• Get behind. Vacuum and clean behind entertainment centers, the fridge, stove, washer, dryer, sofa and beds.

• Clean the bedrooms. Vacuum and clean out underneath beds; flip mattresses; wash mattress pads and protectors in hot water; set pillows out in the sun.

• Clean all floors. Give the floors a good scrub; steam the carpets and scrub tile and grout.

• Clean under sink cabinets.

Restore order underneath kitchen and bathroom sinks; pitch bottles, jars and cans with small amounts.

• Clear out coat closet. Have a missing glove? Maybe your winter coat’s seen better days or your umbrella is broken? Go on and throw these out.

• Deep clean the bathrooms.

Give the bathroom a thorough scrubbing. Be sure to wash the shower curtains.

• Scrub the kitchen. Clean the oven, clear out the fridge and freezer, clean the garbage cans and edit the pantry. Toss broken, single or chipped dishes.

• Give your cosmetics drawer a thorough cleaning. Get rid of that old, cracked eye shadow and the caked mascara and four year old lipstick. Wipe down organizers and clean makeup brushes with shampoo and conditioner.

• Moisturize furniture. If you

have furniture that sits in the sun, give it drink with some lemon oil. The smell will freshen up the house, too.

• Do the windows. Springcleaning isn’t complete until the windows are clean. Use a squeegee, bucket of water and microfiber cloths. Wipe out sills and brush screens with a soft brush or spray off with a garden hose.

•Tackle the garage. Winter has a way of making the garage pile up. Purge, recycle and organize so you aren’t embarrassed for your neighbours to see inside.

• Reorganize your closet. Put away winter items and bring out your summer apparel. Organize by colour.

• Don’t skimp on the details.

Last on the list are little things like changing air conditioning filters, running vinegar through the coffee maker, changing the ice maker filter, and cleaning the vent hood filter.

FENG SHUI Q&A Question: I’m desperate for something different to happen in my life.

What can I do to change the

energy of my life?

Answer: Feng shui is the answer. Get to work around your house cleaning up, decluttering, and moving items around. Change the lamps from your living room to the bedroom or other rooms. Switch the pictures around. Buy some pretty, healthy plants. Add new sheets or covers to the bed. Get rid of old items you’re just hanging onto out of habit. Move the furniture. Sweep the entrance to your home, repaint the front door, and buy something pretty for your bedroom. Make lots of small changes. You might be amazed at the big difference it makes in your life just by shifting things around.

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!

The SLAM formula American psychologist, Barry Schwartz, in his book, The Paradox of Choice - Why More Is Less, talks about how North Americans now have more choice than any group of people than ever before and that this kind of freedom is actually working against our success abilities. He tells that these days’ human beings have too many decisions to make and very little time to figure out what’s important.

His solution is summed up in two words, “voluntary simplicity.”

This has become somewhat of

a movement. In a very “noisy” world with a whirlwind of tasks, how does one figure out how to perform undertakings from start to finish efficiently?

The answer is a simple but not easy formula. It is called the SLAM Formula. Like Confucius said, “Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated.”

The SLAM Formula is a simple four-step process that is designed to take campaigns from activation to destination or duplication if need be. A campaign is a series of coordinated activities designed

to achieve a goal. The following formula has been used countless times to maximize personal and professional effectiveness. The purpose of the series of questions to follow is to provoke your psychology in a way that will improve your business, career and life.

Slam Formula S = Simplification: Can the method of your campaign delivery become more efficient? Can the frequency of the steps in the task be reduced? Can it be done faster?

Can documentation be synthesized and presented and retrieved more effectively? i.e. Online offices, software and customer relationship management tools.

L = Leveraging: Can the task be outsourced? (The answer is yes it can!) Are there people in your

network, direct and indirect, that can do the task well or even better than you? Can you delegate low priority tasks to free your time to take care of high priority tasks?

This is strategic procrastination.

The great Brian Tracy refers to this as “The Law of Forced Efficiency.”

A = Acceleration: Do you know the value of uninterrupted blocks or work that lead to higher productivity? Are you tracking your results so you can course correct? Has a growth and development audit been carried with your campaign so you know what area needs improvement so you can grow your desired outcomes?

M = Multiplication: Are you duplicating yourself and becoming system dependent rather than people dependent? Are you

working on your campaign or in it? Is your campaign duplicable, growth friendly and sustainable?

If you left for six months to a year, would your campaign be more powerful than when you left? Do you have a team in place to help you with your weaknesses so you can focus on your strengths?

Business, Success & Money message These are all great questions to ask. This blueprint for direction and development has taken confusion and turned it clear cut time and time again according to a number of success studies. How does someone get to any particular destination? They must be sure that they predetermine every step that they make is heading in the right direction! www.valenvergara.com

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

FILIPINO...

From page 1

“It’s fun! And I don’t want to just understand Tagalog, I would also like to be able to speak it,” said Gabriel.

Their mother Ching says she feels happy when she talks to her sons in Tagalog and they understand her – even more so when they speak it to express their feelings and to communicate. “It is part of our culture and I would like my children to be proud of their heritage.”

First of its kind in Canada Filipino-Canadian schoolchildren in the Seven Oaks Division in Winnipeg now have an opportunity o learn more about their Philippine heritage with the introduction of the Filipino Language Bilingual Program. It is believed to be the first of its kind in Canada.

Superintendent Brian O’Leary has said, “there’s a feeling that parents would like to keep young people connected to the culture, and we need school programs that help the community to do that.”

Some Seven Oaks schools already

PILIPINO EXPRESS provide after-school language instruction in Cree, Ojibwa and Tagalog, and O’Leary believes some of those teachers would be suitable for new bilingual programs.

Starting in September, 2016, the Filipino Language Bilingual Program will be held at Arthur E. Wright School, 1520 Jefferson Avenue. As part of the curriculum, the component will be 40 per cent in Filipino and 60 per cent in English with Social Studies focusing on Philippine history, heritage and culture.

Perseverance paid off Cory Juan is the main proponent of the program. A former teacher and Seven Oaks School Division Trustee, Juan said she first conceived the idea of a Filipino Immersion Program back in 2008. But it was not until July 2015 that Juan was able to draft a petition to the Seven Oaks School Board. With the support of some parents, Juan presented her proposal to the board on November 30, 2015.

“I was told that the board approved the motion to implement the Aboriginal Bilingual and

Filipino Bilingual Programs starting in September this year. I was so thrilled and had tears of joy. What an accomplishment!”

With this victory, Juan is quick to add that the program’s success would need the parents’ commitment.

“Parents are the partners in education. They should be empowered to support the program, sharing their varied strengths and talents. Filipino families need to be aware of the importance of preserving our unique culture through language and traditions for our future generations. We need to embrace our Filipino heritage with pride, honour and dignity.”

Juan encourages everyone to attend the Seven Oaks Neighbourhood town hall meeting on Tuesday, March 22, 2016, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Maples Collegiate, 1330 Jefferson Avenue. It will serve as a celebration and acknowledgement of the implementation of the Filipino Bilingual program in September. The event is free for all and light snacks will be provided.

For more information about the Bilingual Programs at Seven Oaks School Division, they can be reached at 204- 586-8061 or at www.7oaks.org

PAGE 9

Cory Juan

Parents Ferdie and Ching Calayag are very pleased that their sons Gabriel and David are interested in learning the Filipino language

PAGE 10

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

Salamat po, Hon. Con. Gen. Orli Marcelino MANITOBA – The position of Honorary Consul General for the Philippines in Manitoba will be vacant after March 22, 2016.

In a letter dated March 8, 2016 addressed to Philippines Foreign Affairs Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Honorary Consul General Orli Marcelino stated that he would not request an extension for his appointment past its validity on March 22, 2016.

The Philippine government appointed Marcelino as Honorary Consul General for Manitoba in 2013. At around that time, Honorary Consul Ronald Opina was also appointed with a specific mandate to promote Philippine tourism in Manitoba. While they had to apply for the appointment,

these positions were voluntary and non-paying posts.

Marcelino’s appointment came at a time when many

permanent residents and temporary foreign workers from the Philippines needed assistance, especially with renewing their Philippine passports and other important consular services that could only be provided by the Philippine Consulate General in Toronto (PCG-Toronto). The

Philippine Canadian Centre of Manitoba (PCCM) provided Marcelino an office to carry out his consular services.

Marcelino was also able to mobilize hundreds of volunteers from the local community.

These volunteers organized the Friends of Filipino Immigrants

in Manitoba (FFIM) and the social media Facebook group called the Friends of Manitoba Consular Outreach. Together with volunteers, Marcelino was able to assist the PCG in Toronto in conducting several consular outreach events in Winnipeg in a relatively orderly manner.

Honorable Consul General Orli Marcelino

Honorary Consul General Orli Marcelino during his 2013 oathtaking at the PCG-Toronto office with his wife Flor Marcelino

Volunteers and Hon. Con. Gen Marcelino at work

Dr. Conrad Santos

First Filipino-Canadian elected public servant is dead MANITOBA – The Filipino-Canadian community in Manitoba mourned the death of Dr. Conrad R. Santos who died in Winnipeg on February 29, 2016.

He was 81 years old.

He was the first Filipino-Canadian ever to be elected to office in Canada when he became NDP MLA for Burrows in 1981, keeping that riding until it was changed in 1988. He was elected to the legislative assembly again in 1990 and served as NDP MLA for Broadway until 1999. Subsequently, he became NDP MLA for Wellington until his political calling came to an end in 2007. As a public servant, Dr. Santos was a colourful figure during his political career.

Santos was born in the Philippines on Nov. 26, 1934. He had a PhD in political science in 1965. He attended Harvard and the University of Michigan. He moved to Winnipeg in 1965 after receiving a teaching position at the University of Manitoba. He retired from the U of M in 2008.

2nd Annual Parish Multicultural Celebration St. Vital Catholic Church – April 16

The steering committee of the 2nd Annual Parish Multicultural Celebration wishes to invite everyone to participate in their upcoming event scheduled on April 16, 2016 at the St. Vital Church, 1629 Pembina Highway.

There will be display booths, food to share, and talent performers to entertain guests. As in previous year’s celebration, the committee promises that everyone will enjoy an evening of fun and fellowship.

The committee also wishes to encourage friends to volunteer as greeters and ushers for the celebration.

To volunteer, please e-mail: libertybulalhog@ yahoo.ca For more information, please e-mail Leila Guerrero at leila_guerrero6@yahoo.ca

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 11

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ

PAGE 12

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

• Mamay Belen – Pumanaw na ang gumabay sa superstar Nora Aunor • Valeen Montenegro – Kabit? Bakit hindi pa ibunyag ni Ciara?

• Kris Aquino – Nakakasawa na ang “the girl who cried wolf” • Maine Mendoza – Huwag sanang laging “balat-sibuyas” • Cesar Montano – Matibay pa rin ang pakikipagkaibigan kay Aga at Willie • Cristine Reyes – Maldita! Nakakuha ng katapat kay Vivian Velez • Amalia Fuentes – Sa pagtanda ay mga apo ang nag-aalaga Malungkot ang balitang bumungad sa amin nitong nakaraang Biernes (March 11) nang umaga. Ang dakilang ina ni Maribel Aunor, si Mamay Belen ay pumanaw noong March 10.

Sa kanilang bahay sa Pangasinan binawian ng buhay ang taong may napakalaking naiambag sa pagiging Superstar ni Nora Aunor.

Magkapatid si Mamay Belen at ang ina ng Superstar na si Mamay Tunying. Matagal na tumira si Nora sa bahay ng mga Aunor sa Nichols. Si Mamay Belen ang gumabay sa hilig sa pagkanta ni Nora at nagsali sa Tawag Ng Tanghalan.

Ang iba pang mga pangyayari ay isa nang kasaysayan ngayon.

Papunta-punta lang sa Maynila si Mamay Belen, nagpapasundo kay Lala, mas ginusto niyang ilaan ang kaniyang panahon sa Pangasinan kung saan siya nakapamumuhay nang tahimik kasama ang mga miyembro ng kanilang kongregasyon.

Si Mamay Belen ang gitarista sa kanilang chapel. Kompositor din siya ng mga awiting patungkol sa Panginoon. Namaalam si Mamay Belen na natupad ang kaniyang hiling na ang mga nalalabi pa niyang taon ay maiukol niya sa pagseserbisyo sa simbahan.

Si Lala ang bunsong anak nina Mamay Belen at Sgt. Aunor na matagal nang pumanaw.

Nagluluksa ang magkakapatid na Ate Norma, Bobot, Romy, Ramon at Lala sa pagpanaw ng ilaw ng kanilang tahanan.

Nasaksihan namin kung

paano pinaligaya at minahal ng magkakapatid si Mamay Belen, lalo na si Lala, dahil sa kaniya tumitira ang kaniyang ina kapag nandito sa Maynila.

Noong minsang nagkasamasama kami sa bahay ni Lala ay kinantahan pa kami ni Mamay Belen na siya mismo ang gumigitara.

Kamangha-mangha ang kaniyang talento sa kabila ng kaniyang edad. May pinagmanahan talaga si Lala at ang kaniyang mga anak na sina Marion at Ashley.

Ngayon pa lang ay nakikinikinita na namin ang pagkapilay ni Lala Aunor sa pagkawala ng kaniyang ina. Ulilang-lubos na silang magkakapatid ngayon, isang uri ng sugat na dumaan man ang mahabang panahon ay walang paghilom.

Ang taos-puso naming pakikiramay sa mga iniwan ni Mamay Belen Aunor. *** Nauumay na ang mga bashers ni Ciara Sotto sa palagi niyang pagpo-post ng mga mensaheng puro naman pailalim at patagilid. Bakit daw kasi hindi magpakatapang si Ciara sa pagsagot nang diretso at hindi puro pa-blind item lang?

Kapag nagsalita si Valeen Montenegro na sinasabing third party sa paghihiwalay nila ni Jojo Oconer ay saka lang nagpo-post si Ciara.

Nang magsalita si Valeen sa isang interview, agad na nag-post si Ciara, “Wow! Kapal! Deny pa more!” ang kaniyang mensahe.

Pero walang detalye iyon, basta See CRISTY p15

Ashley, Mamay Belen, Lala and Marion Aunor

Mamay Belen

Cristine Reyes

Vivian Velez

Migrant Filipinos’ stories highlighted in The Story of Us The love story of Tin and Macoy has just begun in The Story Of Us, but the series has already generated overwhelmingly positive feedback from viewers and

netizens for its engaging storyline and spectacular scenes.

The series – starring the premier love team of Kim Chiu and Xian Lim – is mostly praised for its fast-paced narrative and

the breathtaking shots of El Nido, Palawan shown in its first week.

Aside from the stunning scenery and camera-work, the thing that keeps the series together See STORY p15

The cast and directors of The Story of Us

Xian Lim & Kim Chiu

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 13

Valeen Montenegro

PA-GMAI-Wish I May-Pilipino Express-MB.indd 1

2016-03-13 8:54 PM

For many years, we have been serving the Filipino community with

Dedication, Commitment, Friendship & Trust

We have worked hard at this by providing a dedicated and hard working group of professional men and women offering: • full disclosure of pricing • ensuring our Lamay are professional with great service • offering two well-positioned facilities • providing the best product lines.. and the list goes on!

We are not a nameless, faceless entity in Toronto or Houston.

We live here, work here and play here. Winnipeg is our home, and we demonstrate this daily to the families we serve.

24/7 Compassion & Accessibility Phone: 204-275-5555

Two City Locations 1839 Inkster Blvd. (corner of Inkster Blvd. & Keewatin St.) 1006 Nairn Ave. (corner of Keenleyside St. & Nairn Ave.)

We are your Kababayan in the business! Feel free to call owners Darin Hoffman (Zeny Regalado), Shawn Arnason or our community representative Nap Ebora for a uniquely Filipino prerspective on prearrangements.

Phone: 204-275-5555

PAGE 14

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 15

Alden and Rocco heat up Bae in the City Canada Tour 2016 Kapuso heartthrobs Alden Richards and Rocco Nacino turn up the heat in Canada as they headline Bae in the City Canada Tour 2016 this month.

Alden, one of the most indemand actors in the country today and a co-host on GMA Network’s top-rating comedymusical variety program Sunday PinaSaya and the Philippines’ longest-running noon time show Eat Bulaga, and Rocco, one of GMA’s top leading men who was last seen in the primetime drama series Beautiful Strangers, will be joined by comedian Kim Idol.

Sponsored by GMA’s three international channels – GMA Pinoy TV, GMA Life TV and GMA News TV International, Bae in the City Canada Tour 2016 begins on March 22 at the Club Regent Event Centre in

STORY...

From page 12 are the heartfelt performances of the cast, which includes veteran actors Aiko Melendez, Susan Africa, Gardo Versoza, and Zsa Zsa Padilla. Not to be outdone are Zaijian Jaranilla and Alyanna Angeles, who portray the young Macoy and Tin, whose performances reveal a depth of emotion needed to illustrate the two main characters’ friendship and love.

What truly made a mark on viewers are Kim at Xian, who have injected maturity into their performances – a departure from the type of roles they used to play.

“We worked hard to come up with this material. We embraced our characters to show you a very wonderful love story. You still have a lot to see from Kim and me,” said Xian.

And even though titled

CRISTY...

From page 12 nagparinig lang siya, walang banggit ng pangalan ni Valeen.

Hamon nga ng kaniyang mga bashers, kung mayroon siyang matibay na ebidensiya ay kailangan na niyang lumantad.

Buong-ningning na niyang pangalanan si Valeen Montenegro para makapagbawas din siya ng sama ng loob na matagal na niyang dinadala sa dibdib.

Walang magiging katapusan ang kuwentong ito kung isa lang ang sumasalubong sa isyu at ang isa nama’y iwas lang nang iwas.

Nakakaawa naman si Valeen kung habang walang tinutukoy na pangalan si Ciara ay palagi na lang itong hinuhusgahang kabit.

Diretso na kung diretso. Kung totoong pumasok sa kanilang relasyon ni Jojo Oconer si Valeen ay kailangan nitong panagutan ang kaniyang ginawa. Magdusa si Valeen kung kayang patunayan ni Ciara Sotto na ito nga ang dahilan ng pagkawasak ng relasyon nilang mag-asawa.

Pero hanggang hindi

Winnipeg. The event is staged in partnership with Corazon’s Money Express.

The next day, Alden and Rocco will head to the Maharaja Banquet Hall in Edmonton for the second leg of the tour, held in cooperation with Palabok Promotions. The last stop will be on March 24 at the Massey Theater inNew Westminster, British Columbia in cooperation with Red Productions.

Social media are already abuzz with excitement over the arrival of the sought-after Kapuso leading men as netizens have been posting messages urging the pair to try Canadian delicacies.

“Hope I can go to the concert in March. But you should try beaver tails, poutine, and Tim Horton’s (french vanilla coffee)…” said Twitter user @

mannachocoberry, to which the Kapuso Hunk Rocco Nacino excitedly replied, “I will!”

As the fans give the Kapuso duo tips on how to make their stay an enjoyable one, Alden

and Rocco are also preparing a fun-filled show for their fellow Filipinos in Canada.

Alden Richards

Rocco Nacino

Kim Idol

The Story of Us, the series is a reflection of Filipinos’ personal love stories, according to Kim. “There is nobody who won’t be able to relate to this story. Every one of us has experienced it.”

As the story continues, Tin and Macoy are bound to start over in Manila as they prepare to go to college and reach their dreams.

But amidst the misunderstandings and efforts to make their relationship work, Tin will be forced to go to the United States to be with her estranged mom.

And to pay tribute to Filipino migrant workers, ABS-CBN has launched a series of documentaries as part of its advocacy campaign, which feature the different stories and colourful experiences of migrant Filipinos overseas.

The documentaries air during episodes of The Story of Us. Stay tuned for The Story of Us, weeknights after Dolce Amore on ABS-CBN Primetime Bida. binabanggit ni Ciara ang pangalan ni Valeen sa nangyari sa kanila ni Jojo ay mananatiling biktima lang si Valeen Montenegro sa usaping ito.

Kung ayaw banggitin ni Ciara ang pangalan ni Valeen, kahit man lang sana clue ay magbigay siya, ganoon naman talaga kahit sa pagbibigay ng pitik-bulag.

Clue pa more! *** Kami man si Kris Aquino ay malulungkot kami sa reaksiyon ng mas nakararami nating kababayan tungkol sa plano niyang pamamahinga sa showbiz sa ibinigay niyang petsang March 23.

Ang kaniyang kalusugan ang ibinibigay na dahilan ni Kris. Gusto rin niyang mabigyan nang sapat na panahon ang kaniyang mga anak na sina Josh at Bimby, pero sa halip na unawain ng marami ang kaniyang mga dahilan ay masasakit na reaksiyon ang kaniyang tinanggap mula sa publiko.

Komento ng isa nating kababayan, “Sige na nga, maniwala na tayo sa sinasabi ni Kris, para umalis na siya!” May See CRISTY p16

Superstar Nora Aunor, through the years, with her aunt and mentor Mamay Belen

Mamay Belen, Rosemarie Sarita, Lala Aunor and Nora Aunor

PAGE 16

CRISTY...

From page 15 isa namang nagkomento ng ganito, “Nakakaumay na ang pagpapaalam ni Kris. Kahit ang comma at period niya, eh, hindi ko na pinaniniwalaan dahil sa pagiging inconsistent niya!

“Ilang beses na ba niyang sinabi na tatalikuran na niya ang trabaho niya? Napakaraming beses na, pero hindi niya naman pinaninindigan!

Noong kumakandidato pa lang si P-Noy, ang sabi niya, eh, titira na lang daw silang mag-iina sa Amerika kapag nanalo ang kapatid niya!

“Patapos na ang termino ng kuya niya, pababa na nga sa July sa puwesto, pero hindi naman sila umalis ng mga anak niya para manirahan na sa ibang bansa!

“Kapritso na lang niya ‘yan!

Hindi na kasi siya nakakaeksena, kulang talaga siya sa pansin!

Inunahan lang niya ang pagbaba ng kuya niya, alam niya kasi na makababawas iyon sa pagiging Kris Aquino niya.

“Flop ang mga huling movies niya, hindi na nagre-rate ang show niya, hindi na rin siya ang reyna ng TVC endorsements, kaya iyan ang naisipan niya, ang mamahinga na raw!” maasim na pahayag ng isang umay na umay na sa mga binibitiwang pahayag ng aktres-TV host.

Nagtatatak kasi ang taumbayan.

Minamarkahan nila ang sinasabi ng mga personalidad. At sa anggulong iyon ay hindi dapat masyadong maapektuhan si Kris dahil ang

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

pinag-uugatan naman ng mga negatibong reaksiyon ngayon ng mas nakararami tungkol sa kaniyang pamamahinga sa showbiz ay ang kaniyang mga sariling pangako na napako.

Wala kasi siyang tinupad sa mga binitiwan niyang pahayag, paulit-ulit niyang sinasabi ang kung anu-anong kuwento, pero sa bandang huli ay hindi niya naman iyon ginagawa at pinaninindigan.

Masakit ang salitang “the girl who cried wolf” na ikinakambal sa kaniya ngayon, pero kahit balibaligtarin ang sitwasyon ay doon talaga iyon mauuwi, si Kris Aquino rin ang nagbigay ng ideya para tawagin siyang inconsistent.

Pero sa pagkakataong ito ay maaaring nagpapakatotoo na si Kris, marami na siyang nararamdaman sa kaniyang katawan, pahinga mula sa sagarang pagtatrabaho lang ang makatutugon sa madalas niyang pagkakasakit. *** Nanawagan si Maine Mendoza sa kaniyang detractors (distractors sabi ni Alden Richards) na sa halip na ilaglag sila ng kaniyang ka-loveteam ay manalamin muna ang mga ito at huwag maghanap ng mali sa kanila ni Alden Richards.

Tama naman ang linya ng kaniyang pangangatwiran, pero hindi lahat ay makaiintindi sa kaniya, kaya sa muli ay bash kung bash na naman ang tinanggap ng Dubsmash Queen.

At tama rin ang opinyon ng mga pumansin sa kaniyang litanya. Hindi langit ang kaniyang

pinasok na puro magaganda lang ang matatanggap niya. Mundo ng showbiz ang pinangarap niyang balwarte na punumpuno ng mga intriga, kaya dapat ay hindi siya maging balat-sibuyas.

Ang mga taong may manipis na balat ay hindi dapat mapabilang sa lokal na aliwan. Ang mga taong ayaw pinapansin ang kanilang mga kalabisan at kakulangan ay hindi dapat nananatili sa showbiz. Hindi matutupad ang gustong mangyari ni Yaya Dub. Hindi na siya pangiwingiwi lang ngayon sa You Tube.

Pampublikong pigura na siya dahil sa katuparan ng kaniyang pangarap na maging artista. Dapat ay nakahanda na ang kaniyang sarili sa mga isyung pagpipistahan tungkol o laban sa kaniya.

Payo ng kaniyang mga bashers ay hindi siya dapat patolah sa mga kontrobersiyang kinapapalooban niya ngayon. Dapat ay nakahanda siyang saluhin ang mga kuwento at komentong humuhusga sa kaniya. Gusto niyang makilalang artista, na natupad naman, kaya ito ang presyong kailangan niyang pagbayaran.

Napakalaki na ng pakinabang ni Maine sa linyang pinasukan niya. Kabi-kabilang TVC, ang mapasama siya sa Eat…Bulaga na pangarap ng maraming personalidad, siguro’y kailangan na niyang semyentuhin ngayon ang palibot ng kaniyang puso para kayanin-tiisin niya ang mga intrigang ibinabato sa kaniya. ***

Sa tagal na sa showbiz ni Cesar Montano ay namaster na niya nang husto kung anu-anong isyu lang ang puwede niyang sagutin at alin-alin naman ang dededmahin.

Alam na alam na rin niya kung kailan siya magbibigay ng pahayag at kung paanong atake ang kaniyang gagawin. Iyon ang pagkahinog na tinatawag sa mga artista. Hindi basta patol nang patol, hindi sagot nang sagot, lalo na kung wala namang katotohanan ang kuwento.

Ganoong-ganoon din si Aga Muhlach. May paraan ang guwapong aktor na ilihis ang isyu, pero ang nakakatawa, bago matapos ang inyong usapan ay mararamdaman mo na lang na ikaw na pala ang sinusunog ng aktor.

Magkaibigan sina Cesar at Aga. Kaibigan din nila si Willie Revillame. Silang tatlo ang noon pa ang magkakabigkis na ang pusod at hanggang ngayo’y malalim pa rin ang pundasyon ng kanilang samahan.

Walang tamang oras sa kanilang

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016 pagkikita-kita. Kapag libre silang tatlo ay magkakasama silang naggo-golf o nagba-basketball.

Puwede ring buong araw lang silang nagkukuwentuhan.

Bihira na kaming makakita ng ganoong pagkakaibigan, mataas o malagihay ang estado ng kanilang career ay magkakasama pa rin sila.

Hinding-hindi mo sila maririnig na sinisiraan ang isa’t isa.

May pinagdadaanang personal na problema ngayon si Cesar, pero hindi iyon nakaaapekto sa kaniyang propesyon. Kung ganoon nang ganoon ang mga artistang problemado ay mas gugustuhin na sigurong humawak ng mga problemadong artista ang mga direktor para wala silang problema.

Deadma lang si Cesar Montano sa isyung pinagpistahan dahil sa kalukresyahan ni Maria Ozawa.

Bakit nga naman niya iyon sasagutin?

Halatado namang naghahanap lang ng ingay ang porno star, gusto lang nitong mapag-usapan, See CRISTY p17

UPAA-MB to conduct ISKO TALKS – April 2 The University of the Philippines Alumni and Associates in Manitoba (UPAA-MB) invites all UP alumni, associates and friends to ISKO TALKS at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 2, 2016 at the West Kildonan Library, 365 Jefferson Avenue.

The guest speakers and their respective topics are: Eppie Austria – “Learn how to start seedlings indoor and create your own garden of flowering plants and vegetables at home;” and Jeusa Raflores – “Learn tips on finding, purchasing, and maintaining rental properties.”

For more information, email: chairperson@upmb.net

PHCM – Youth Forum on Building Success – March 17 Everyone is invited to the Youth Forum on Building Success scheduled on March 17, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at the Daniel McIntyre Collegiate (DMCI) Multipurpose Hall, 720 Alverstone St. This forum is free to the public and is being held under the auspices of the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba (PHCM).

“We have a very exciting line up of panel speakers, and the youth will get the chance to get up close with them, listen to their stories, and be inspired!” said PHCM PR person Paul Makaraeg.

The guest speakers are: • Dario Agravante Cidro, PhD – Community Health Sciences (University of Manitoba) Contract Faculty • Johann Generao – Digital Marketing Specialist, Cofounder of Winnipeg Got Sole, and DMCI graduation donor • Mary Ann Masesar Blair – Registered Nurse and entrepreneur • Carolina Nario – Educator/Teacher for Winnipeg School Division 1 • Gary Sarcida – Practising lawyer • Jeremy Senaris – Residential Plan Examiner for the City and Master Chef Canada contender For more information, please email: PHCM.inc@ gmail.com

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

CRISTY...

From page 16 nagkamali nga lang ito ng napiling artista para bulabugin. *** Sa isang lumang pelikula ay sinabi ng isang ermitanyo sa kausap nitong simpleng taong may mabuting puso na magiging tagapagtanggol pala ng mga inaapi, “Lagi mong tatandaan na may kalapat na takip ang bawat palayok.

Hindi puwedeng wala. Ikaw ang katapat na kakalos sa kalabisan ng mga mapang-api.”

Humigit-kumulang ay ganito ang senaryong kinapapalooban ng malditang si Cristine Reyes.

Matagal na panahon nang nangaapi ng kaniyang kapwa ang nagpapaseksing babaeng ito na ang ilusyon ay siya na ang pinakasikat at pinakamagandang babae sa balat ng lokal na aliwan.

Sa Carlene Aguilar. Si Sarah Geronimo. Sa marami pang ibang artista at ang pinakamatindi, ang makasaysayan niyang panglalait at paninira sa sarili niyang kapatid na nauwi pa nga sa piskalya, si Ara Mina.

May kalapat daw na takip ang bawat palayok, sabi ng ermitanyo, natagpuan ngayon ni Cristine Reyes ang kaniyang katapat sa walang kupas na aktres na si Vivian Velez.

Ngayon lang namin naringgan ng reklamo at pagkapuno ang kinoronahang Miss Body Beautiful noong kaniyang kapanahunan, Ngayon lang namin ito narinig na magbitiw ng salitang bastos,

SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS

at iyon ay ipinatutungkol nito kay Cristine Reyes na bumibida sa kanilang seryeng Tubig At Langis.

Ngayon lang talaga. Dahil napanatili ni Vivian Velez ang maganda nitong pakikitungo sa kaniyang mga kasamahang artista, sa bumubuo ng bawat produksiyong nakakatrabaho nito, walang kahit sinong makapagsasabing naging problema sa set si Double V. Dahil sa pagiging maldita at bastos ni Cristine Reyes ay gusto nang tapusin ni Vivian ang kanilang pagsasama sa serye. Bumabaligtad ang sikmura ng tunay na aktres sa kabastusan ni Cristine.

Insecure na insecure kasi sa kaniya si Cristine. Naturingan nga namang siya ang bumibida sa serye pero ang nagkokontrabida pang si Vivian Velez ang nakakakuha ng atensiyon ng produksiyon.

Magkasama dapat sila sa isang dressing room, pero gusto ni Cristine na solohin ang lugar dahil matutulog daw siya, nang hindi mangyari ang kaniyang gusto ay pabalibag niyang binubuksan at isinasarado ang pintuan ng dressing room.

Pinalampas na ni Vivian ang marami pang ibang kabastusan ni Cristine, pero ang bawat tao ay may nakareserba lang na pisi ng pasensiya, sinagad iyon ng malditang sexy actress kaya nagpaalam na si VV sa produksiyon.

Nang mapuno na siya ay nakipagmiting si Vivian sa produksiyon at ito ang kaniyang mensahe, “Hello, my meeting went well… going back for unfinished

work. I gave them three to four days max, basta hindi kasama si Cristine sa mga eksena.”

Propesyonal si Vivian. Kahit noong ang produksiyon ng aktres (Amazaldy Films) ang gumagawa ng kaniyang mga pelikula ay hindi ito kailanman umastang primadona.

Buhay na buhay pa ang pinsan naming si Ate Lydia de Leon na habambuhay na naging production manager ng Amazaldy. Ipinagmamalaki nito ang pagrespetong ibinibigay ni Vivian sa lahat ng kanilang mga artista at staff ng produksiyon.

Kung magpoprodyus uli ngayon ng pelikula ang kumpanya ni Vivian ay handang umuwi ang aming pinsan mula sa paninirahan sa Amerika para makatrabaho uli ang milyonarya pero mapagkumbabang aktres.

Tapos ngayon ay bastusSee CRISTY p20

PAGE 17

Lala Aunor and her beloved mother, Mamay Belen

BFFs Aga Muhlach, Cesar Montano & Willie Revillame

OUR COMMUNITY

PAGE 18

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

Pinays MB shines the spotlight on outstanding Filipino women in Manitoba – March 12, 2016 PINAY...

From page 1 the first official event from the newly founded Pinays MB Inc. The event followed International Women’s Day, which one founding member, Tes Aiello, described as a day of reflection, celebration, advocacy, and taking action – all goals of Pinays MB Inc. The luncheon began with emcee Emmie Joaquin, who is among the founding members, asking attendees to “Imagine what happens when a group of strong, smart, empowered, and driven women get together and discuss other women.” She answers, “only good things happen when they meet.”

In a span of just over three months, the 21 founding members of Pinays MB Inc. launched their organization with an event that is congruent to their vision and goals. Expect more events that empower women with skills and opportunities to network and support each other.

Chairperson Perla Javate opened the program by outlining the story and vision of the group.

By doing so, she not only began the event, but also kicked off Pinay MB Inc.’s journey as pioneers in their own right, creating the first group of its kind to celebrate and empower women of our community.

Greetings and well wishes were brought on behalf of the three levels of government from MP Kevin Lamoureux, MLA Melanie Wight, Councillor Mike Pagtakhan, and Honorary Consul General for the Philippines in Manitoba, Orli Marcelino. All shared a common thread of honouring the way in which women show perseverance amidst challenges and stay dedicated to what is important to them.

There was a performance

by Joy Lazo with two carefully selected songs of hope and gratitude.

The ballroom had a palpable energy as women moved around meeting new individuals and catching up with familiar faces.

As a young woman who grew up involved in this community, it was a humbling experience to

watch these women genuinely appreciate each other’s work and accomplishments. I was at the meeting point of brilliant, highachieving, powerhouse women who stand as role models for my generation and those after me.

I had the unique privilege of joining the table of the two honourees, Mrs. Fe Ryder and Mrs. Hati Custodio, who was receiving the award on behalf of her late mother, Mrs. Carolina Custodio. Amidst insightful conversations about their immigrant experiences, it became evident how their sacrifices and dedication have truly paved the way for the Filipino community.

These women are trailblazers, creating a path where there wasn’t

one previously.

Keynote speaker Hon. Flor Marcelino stated that these women “share the same enduring qualities of early female pioneers” who had to adapt and make the most of what they had without the conveniences and resources that are available for newcomers today. She honoured them for their acts of kindness and service to complete strangers as they helped others settle into Winnipeg, creating a ripple effect into what is now known as the hospitable and compassionate reputation of Filipinos. She became unexpectedly emotional as she tearfully and gracefully thanked both women for all their tireless efforts, stating that we

are a “strong, proud community because of you.”

Congratulations once again goes out to Pinays MB Inc. for a successful event. By creating a group that not only recognizes and celebrates Filipinas in our community, but also seeks to build up the confidence and empower others to reach their full potential, you are continuing the work of Mrs. Fe Ryder and Mrs. Carolina Custodio – two role models whose legacy will be carried by the strong, motivated, and dedicated Pinays that they encouraged to be resilient despite hardships.

To Mrs. Ryder and Mrs. Custodio, maraming salamat po!

Photos by Rey-Ar Reyes

Perla Javate

Hati Custodio, daughter of the late Mrs. Carolina Custodio, accepts the recognition plaque on behalf of the Custodio family

Pinays MB honoree Mrs. Fe Ryder receives her plaque of recognition from Perla Javate

Pinays MB’s first official event honouring outstanding Filipino women, March 12, 2016 at the Skyview Ballroom of Marlborough Hotel

OUR COMMUNITY

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 19

Min. Flor Marcelino

Emmie Joaquin

Roselyn Advincula

Tes Aiello

Joy Lazo

Min. Melanie Wight

Letty Antonio

MP Kevin Lamoureux

Coun. Mike Pagtakhan

Consul Gen. Orli Marcelino

The founding members and Min. Marcelino with 2016 honorees: (front, 3rd & 4th from left) Fe Ryder and Hati Custodio (representing Carolina Custodio)

The Pinays MB recognition luncheon event was also an opportunity for guests to meet new people and renew acquaintances

Left photo: Pinays MB guests with Fr. Geoffrey Angeles during the recognition luncheon. Right photo: Joy Lazo and Rey-Ar Reyes lead the singing of national anthems

EH KASI, PINOY!

PAGE 20

PILIPINO EXPRESS

KROSWORD

HOROSCOPE

NO. 248

Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot

PAHALANG 1. Semana Santa 5. Mapapariwara 12. Bayan sa Bataan 13. Linisin 14. Lubos 15. Pinatuyong ubas 16. Tibay 20. Punit 24. Uri ng kahoy 25. Babala 26. Diwasa 27. Yakap 28. Pinaniwalaan 30. Lihim PABABA 1. Paghuhugas ng bunganga 2. Tulad ng 24 pahalang 3. Sapantaha 4. Katapusan 6. ____ Mina 7. Postura 8. Si Tirso 9. ___ hop

10. Mga manggagawang Pinoy 11. Api 16. Tulad 17. Batay 18. Ginapas 19. Takas 20. Hiwa 21. Istorbo 22. Usok 23. Tawagan ng mga preso 29. Panghalip

SAGOT SA NO. 247

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

MARSO 16 – 31, 2016 Aries (March 21 – April 19) Dapat ay matalas ang iyong mga mata at tenga sa mga nagaganap sa iyong kapaligiran.

Kumilos ka nang akma sa hinihingi ng pagkakataon.

May karapatan kang tumanggi sa mga iaalok nila sa iyo. Huwag kang mag-atubiling umayaw.

Baka ka mawalan. OK ang ika18, 19, 28 at 29. Ingat sa ika-16, 17, 23, 24 at 31.

Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Huwag mong ipamigay ang iyong mga pagaari o kinitang pera lalo na sa mga kilala mong tunay na bulagsak sa buhay. Huwag kang magpapadala sa drama nila. Peke lang ang emosyong nakikita mo sa kanila. Tama na ang minsang nabilog ang ulo mo noon. OK ang ika-18, 19, 28 at 29. Ingat sa ika-26 at 27.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Masaya ang p a m i l y a .

Malulusog ang mga kasambahay mo. Ipagpatuloy mo ang malusog ninyong pamumuhay – balanced diet, regular exercise at tamang oras ng pagtulog. Hindi palaging malusog ang isang tao kaya hindi dapat magpabaya. Magpahinga ka. OK ang ika-18, 19, 28 at 29.

Ingat sa ika-21 at 22.

Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Bigyan mo ng hanggahan ang iyong mabuting pakikisama sa ibang tao. Kusa kang mapagbigay kahit hindi naman sila humihingi ng tulong sa iyo. Sa panahon ngayon, kailangan mo nang maging praktikal. Unahin mo muna ang sarili mo bago ang iba.

Matuto ka na. OK ang ika-21, 22 at 31. Ingat sa ika-18, 19, 26 at 27.

Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Masaya ang buhay. Wala kang nararamdamang sakit o sama ng loob. Hanggang kailan ang magandang pakiramdam na ito?

Walang makakapagsabi kaya ingatan mo pa rin ang iyong kalusugan at pakikisalamuha sa ibang tao. May traydor sa paligid mo. OK ang ika-21, 22 at 31.

Ingat sa ika-28 at 29.

Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Ang natitirang mga araw ng Marso ay buwenas sa iyo at mga mahal mo sa buhay.

Iwasan mo ang umasa sa isang pangako mula sa isang kaibigan. Maging matalino ka at kumilos ka nang hindi mo iaasa iyon sa kaniya.

Kaya mong gawin ang bagay na iyon, di ba? OK ang ika-21, 22 at 31. Ingat sa ika-16, 17, 23 at 24.

Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Iwasan mo ang magbitiw ng mga pangako lalo na sa mga may matataas na katungkulan.

Hindi kasi nila nakakalimutan at kukulitin ka nila para tuparin mo ang iyong mga sinabi. Baka akala mo ay tatanawin nilang utang na loob sa iyo iyon. Sa totoo lang, hindi. OK ang ika-23 at 24. Ingat sa ika-21, 22, 28 at 29.

Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) May mga tumutulong sa iyo. Tapat sila at walang inaasahang ibabalik mo ang kabutihan nila sa iyo. Mahalagang tandaan mo kung sino sila. Darating ang araw na kakailanganin ka rin nila. Kapag dumating iyon, alam mo kung sino lamang ang dapat tulungan mo. OK ang ika-23 at 24. Ingat sa ika-16, 17 at 31.

Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) Huwag mong ibuhos ang oras sa proyekto na hindi ka sigurado kung dapat sa iyo o hindi. Oras man o pera ang hingin nila sa iyo, siguraduhin mo munang may kinabukasang maganda at legal ang papasukin mo. Ingatan mo ang iyong puso at sikmura.

Magpahinga ka. OK ang ika-23 at 24. Ingat sa ika-18, 19, 26 at 27.

Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Mag-ingat ka sa paggawa ng mga plano kaugnay ng mahabang biyahe.

Iwasan mo rin ang magdesisyon kaugnay ng mga bagay na kailangan ang pirma ng abogado o alagad ng batas. Huwag ka ring magbigay ng garantiya lalo na kung hindi mo pa kilala ang tao.

OK ang ika-16, 17, 26 at 27. Ingat sa ika-23, 24 at 31.

Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) Masigla ka.

Maganda ang iyong hanapbuhay.

Kulay rosas ang iyong romansa.

Samantalahin mo ang kaligayahan ngayon. Parang daloy iyan ng tubig. Kung hindi mo iipunin, mawawala rin.

Magsinop ka muna dahil baka mangailangan ang isang malapit sa iyo. OK ang ika-16, 17, 26 at 27. Ingat sa ika-18 at 19.

Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Maganda ang plano pero maging praktikal ka – plano lang iyon.

Paano magiging katotohanan ang mga naka-drawing doon? Baka gamitin lang nila ang maganda mong reputasyon. Maayos ang buhay mo, huwag mong gawing kumplikado. Maging kontento ka.

OK ang ika-16, 17, 26 at 27. Ingat sa ika-21, 22, 28 at 29.

ngayon.

Puwedeng mabuhay nang masagana si Vivian kahit hindi ito nag-aartista, hindi tulad ni Cristine na kailangang kumayod nang husto dahil sa kaniyang mga pananagutan sa buhay, kasama na rin ang kaniyang mga kapritso. *** Napakabilis talaga ng paglipad ng panahon. Isang taon na pala ang nakaraan mula nang pumanaw si Liezl Martinez. Isang taon nang biyudo si Albert at ulila sa ina ang kanilang mga anak.

Naging masalimuot ang mga pangyayari sa pagpanaw ni Liezl. Nagkaroon nang matinding hidwaan sa pagitan ng kaniyang inang si Amalia Fuentes at ng kaniyang mag-aama.

Nagkasumbatan ang magkabilang panig. Nagkasagutan si Tita Nena at ang kaniyang mga

apo, napakataas ng kanilang mga emosyon nang mamayapa si Liezl.

Pero kung gaano kabilis ang paglipas ng panahon ay ganoon din kabilis ang kanilang pagkakasundo.

Sa pinagdadaanan ngayon ni Amalia Fuentes ay mismong mga anak ni Liezl ang nag-aalaga sa kaniya.

Naghahalinhinan sa pagbabantay sa kanilang lola sina Alyanna at Alfonso. Doon na halos sa bahay ng aktres naglalagi ang mga anak nina Albert at Liezl.

Isang malinaw na patunay na pamilya pa rin ang ating maaasahan sa pagdating ng mga indulto sa ating buhay.

Kung malungkot mang umalis si Liezl, siguradong ngayon ay maligaya na ang anak ni Tita Nena sa dako pa roon, dahil magkakasundo na ang kaniyang mga mahal sa buhay. – CSF

CRISTY...

From page 17 bastusin lang ito ni Cristine Reyes?

Paparinggan ng kung anu-anong salita at pagdadabugan? Ni wala sa kalingkingan ng isang Vivian Velez ang mga ipinagmamalaking alam ni Cristine Reyes bilang artista.

Pipila pa muna nang pagkahabahaba ni Cristine Reyes bago siya makaamot man lang ng ningning mula sa bituin ni Vivian Velez.

Magbabayo pa siya at magsasaing nang milyong beses bago niya mapantayan man lang ang naabot na ni Vivian Velez bilang aktres.

Kung kinakayan-kayanan niya ang ibang mga artistang pinagmamalditahan niya ay huwag niyang isali sa bilang si Vivian.

Pagmamahal lang sa kaniyang propesyon ang dahilan ng pagaartista pa rin nito hanggang

EH KASI, PINOY!

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

BALAGTAS, Bulacan – Gugunitain minsan pa ng dominanteng mga mamamayang katoliko ang Mahal na Araw. Ang okasyon ay sasamantalahin naman ng mga politiko para manilo ng boto. Sa iba naman, holiday ang araw ng pangilin. *** Habang nakatutok sa umiinit na 2016 political campaign ang mga politiko, gayon din ang usapin ng Pilipinas at China sa West Philippine Sea/South China Sea. Nagbabala sa China ang kalihim sa depensa ng Amerika na huwag daanin sa militarization ang paglutas sa territorial disputes.

Sana nga puro dakdak na lang tulad ni PNoy. “Lumayas kayo sa aming teritoryo,” sabi ni Noynoy. Aba, eh para lang siyang nagsalita sa pader. Ampaw at walang asim ang dakdak na ‘yon. Sa totoo lang, ang administrasyon Aquino ay natutulog samantalang ang China ay abala sa paglikha ng man-made islands.

Mismong sa karagatang kanlurang bahagi ng Luzon ay patuloy ngayon ang mga aktibidades ng China. Nabalitang Palawan ang susunod na target.

Marami nang mga barkong pandigma ang Beijing sa lugar at hinaharang ang mga Filipino fishermen.

Ang gobyernong Aquino ang sinisisi ng mga kritiko. Hindi daw kasi binantayan ang teritoryo ng Pilipinas. Pinayagan na makapambully ang China. Ang Filipino fishermen ay nawalan tuloy ng mga napagkukunan ng kabuhayan.

Kung ang hinihintay ng gobyernong Aquino ay resulta ng iniharap na kaso sa UN Arbitral Tribunal sa The Netherlands pabor man sa Pilipinas, kung ayaw kilalanin ng China, malabo pa rin na maalis ang tensiyon sa disputed

PILIPINO EXPRESS

territory.

*** Halos nagkatugma sa isyu ng pakikitungo sa China sina senador Bongbong Marcos at Greg Honasan. Sabi ni Bongbong, ang sigalot sa pinag-aagawang teritoryo ay dapat na lutasin sa pag-uusap na one-on-one tulad nang noon ay ginawa ng Pilipinas at Indonesia.

Sinabi naman ni Sen. Honasan, ang Pilipinas ay marami nang kasunduan na sinamahan. Hindi naman nakaganda sa kabuhayan ng mga Filipino. Kailangan nang repasuhin at kumalas, dagdag ng senador. Binanggit ang ASEAN at APEC. May positive effect ba sa kabuhayan ng mga Filipino? Ang ibang kasapi ang nabiyayaan, pero ang Pilipinas ay walang napala.

Naging tambakan lang ng mga produkto. Mula sa gulay, karne ng baboy, baka at manok. Sa pamamagitan pa ng smuggling ang karaniwang paraan. Kailangang kumalas na raw sa mga kasunduang walang naidudulot na maganda sa kabuhayan ng mga Filipino. *** Pinayagan ng Korte Suprema si Sen. Grace Poe-Llamanzares na sumali sa 2016 presidential race. Maliwanag na ang desisyon ay binatay sa emosyon. Nabalewala ang mga probisyon ng Konstitusyon. Pinalangoy siya sa dagat ng maruming politika.

Ang kaniyang salba-bida umano ay mga mayayaman at mahaba ang tahid sa politika. May mga naghihinala rin na si PNoy ay may kinalaman sa naging body language ng mayoryang kagawad ng Korte Suprema.

Kung nangyayari daw ang vote buying sa Korte Suprema, sa national and local elections possible din. Nabalitang maraming LP members ang dismayado.

HINAGAP

Ang Sagradong Araw Sabik na hinintay ang pagdating Niya, Ang mga dinatnan ay lipos ng saya; Ngunit nang lumaon ay hinamak Siya, Silang nagbubunyi, mga taksil pala! *** Nakadipang kahoy, Kaniyang pinasan, Mabigat na sala ng sangdaigdigan; Malimit madapa ang hapong katawan, Hirap nakabadha sa mukhang duguan! *** Ang Mahal na Araw igalang ang bilin, Kakulangang iwi ay minsang silipin; Madungis na mukha natin ay linisin, At ang nagkasala, hingi’y patawarin! *** Ang Sagradong araw sa iba ay hindi, Dahil ang kilalang Diyos ay salapi!

Paquito Rey Pacheco

Kung totoo daw na si PNoy ay may kinalaman sa nangyari, si Grace Poe ang kaniyang anointed, hindi si Mar Roxas.

Sakali namang totoo, manhid si Roxas kung sasali pa siya sa presidential derby. Maliwanag na ang labanan ngayon ay Sen. Grace Poe-Llamanzares vs VP Binay. For vice-president ay Chiz Escudero vs Bongbong Marcos.

Maraming nagtataka kung bakit si former Rep. Roy Seneres na pumanaw nang hindi pa nasisimulan ang imprenta ng mga balota ay isinama pa ang pangalan.

Ano ba ‘yan, Mr. Chairman? Sino ang boboto sa patay na? Ang mga patay din ba? Sayang ang taxpayers money na ginastos sa papel at tinta. *** Nanawagan si Sen. Bongbong sa mga turista. Welcome sila, subalit sana ay igalang naman ang environmental regulations sa tourists areas. Sinabing may mga resorts kasi na ginawa subalit walang proper planning na nakakasira sa mga likas na kayamanan ng bansa.

Nasayang ang may 30 taon ng sana ay dapat good governance.

Nag-iba ang takbo ng gobyerno mula sa panahon ng Mother and Son ng Aquino administration.

Ang dating two-party system sa pagpili ng lider ng bansa ay naging multi-party. Isang malinaw na bakas ng pagkakaiba ng buhay noon at ngayon.

Muling pinatutsadahan ni PNoy si Sen. Bongbong Marcos.

Ang resulta daw ng May 9 elections ay magsisilbing referendum kung ang mga Marcos ay tanggap pa ng mga Filipino.

*** Si Sen. Serge Osmeña na kaalyado ng administrasyon ay hindi nakatiis. Pinuna ang kapalpakan ng pinalabas ng EQ tungkol sa merger of the Land Bank and the Development Bank of the Philippines. Kapuwa may batas na may kani-kaniyang pananagutan.

Hindi mapawawalang bisa sa pamamagitan lang ng Executive Order ang batas, sabi ni Osmeña. *** Maraming nakakapuna sa body-language ni Ombudsman Conchita Carpio-Morales. Anong klaseng “moral” daw mayroon ang Ombudsman na waring atat-naatat ngayon sa mga bintang against VP Binay? Maybe, because of Grace Poe or Mar Roxas? Tanong ng mga kritiko.

Palaban pa rin si Mar Roxas.

Binanatan si VP Binay. Mahirap nga daw, pero saan nanggaling ang kaniyang kayamanan ngayon?

Tanong naman ng Binay Camp.

Saan napunta ang milyon-milyong dollars at mga produktong donasyon ng foreign countries para sa mga biktima ng Yolanda na ipinagkatiwala kay Roxas?

Gayon din ang tanong ni Mayor Duterte, pero sabi ni Roxas, wala na raw siyang interes na patulan pa iyon. Si Korina Sanchez ay inakusahan naman ni Duterte ng creative vote-buying.

Gumagamit daw ng government funds at ibang paraan para iboto ang kaniyang asawa. Binanggit ang Dept. of Agriculture na sinasamahan at nagdedeskurso sa okasyon ng pamamahagi ng farm equipment and money for farmers.

Katas Ang pagpili ng mga opisyal

PAGE 21 para sa susunod na administrasyon ay magaganap mga 40 araw na lang mula ngayon.

1.

Ang pangunahing magkalaban ngayon sa 2016 presdential race ay Sen. Grace Poe-Llmanzares vs VP Binay.

2. Nawa’y hindi maulit ang himala ng Hokus-PCOS machines.

Baka pa maulit ang dating manual counting ng boto at hindi kaagadagad malaman ang resulta ng eleksiyon.

3. Ang tensiyon sa West Philippine Sea, sana ay manlamig.

Ang mainit na patutsadahan ng China at US ay matigil na rin.

4. Manlamig na rin nawa ang mainit na klima ng kaguluhang nangyayari sa Gitnang Silangan.

5. Ang brain drain mula sa Pilipinas ay maputol na rin sana na tanging pag-asa ng mga Filipino na mabuhay ng maligaya sa sariling bayan.

Kasabihan Ang lahat ng bagay at buhay sa ibabaw ng lupa ay may katapusan.

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

Paquito Rey Pacheco worked for 21 years in Philippine radio broadcasting. He is a former PRO for Radio in the Office of the Secretary of Philippine National Defense and former Chairman of the Rural Broadcasters Council of the Philippines. He was a reporter for Bagong Buhay newspaper. In Winnipeg, he was the News Director of Good Morning Philippines for 13 years on CKJS Radio 810 AM. E-mail: kakareypacheco@yahoo.ca.

PAGE 22

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

Canadian immigration refocused on family reunification, refugee resettlement OTTAWA – Canada will welcome as many as 305,000 newcomers in 2016 with a special emphasis on family reunification and refugee resettlement.

The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC), John McCallum made the announcement in Brampton, Ontario on March 8 following the delivery of the Annual Report to Parliament on Immigration.

McCallum said the government’s plan “outlines a significant shift in immigration policy towards reuniting more families, building our economy and upholding Canada’s humanitarian tradition to resettle refugees and offer protection to those in need.”

“It is the highest number of projected immigrant admissions put forth by the government of Canada in modern times,” he added.

The Immigration Minister also stated that the plan “will improve processing times and our backlogs will go down in our

different immigration categories, including those for spouses, partners and children and parents and grandparents because we will be able to welcome more people to Canada.”

Family reunification spots, including spouses, partners and children, will be increased from last year’s 68,000 spots up to 82,000. “We know the value of keeping families together, including immigrant families,” said McCallum. “There is a social value to this as well as an economic value that benefits all society.”

Although economic immigrants will account for the majority of admissions to Canada – 162,400 guaranteed spots – the number in this class is down from last year’s 181,000.

McCallum said the number still remains in line with those of previous years when the average admission level in the economic immigrant class between 2005 and 2014 was 154,544 spots.

McCallum also promised to

apply lessons learned in the quick processing of Syrian refugees this year to cut processing times and backlogs that exist in other immigration streams such as refugees, caregivers and members of the family class, “My single top priority is to reduce those backlogs and to reduce the processing times.

We will be working to improve the efficiency with which the department treats applications,” he said.

The government’s most ambitious immigration goals are in the refugee stream. Ottawa has increased the number of privately sponsored refugees to 18,000; triple the 6,000 refugees admitted in previous years under the Harper government. This is over and above the 25,000 refugees from Syria resettled in Canada at the end of February and the 10,000 more Syrian refugees the government has pledged to receive by the end of 2016. In total, Ottawa plans to welcome about 55,800 refugees

this year.

The increases in the refugee stream will allow “Canada to welcome higher numbers of refugees from other parts of the world with refugee populations such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Colombia and Eritrea,” according to the department

of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship.

McCallum also told the news conference that the IRCC is developing reforms for the Express Entry system that might make it easier for international students to become permanent residents.

PEOPLE & EVENTS Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg (FSGW) new officers 2016

From left to right: Amante Bayuga (BOD), Aida Champagne (BOD/Adviser), Mackie Palacio (auditor), Charm Moreno (Program and Fundraising), Ester Camuyong (Membership & booking), Gloria Agravante (Vice President), Kelly Legaspi (secretary), Jaina Medida (Treasurer), MLA Melanie Wight (guest), Councillor Mike Pagtakhan (Deputy Mayor/Oath-taking Officer), Jun Isla (President), Aireen Henson (BOD), Michael Mostajo (BOD), Freddie Sion (BOD), Peter Estrada (BOD)

FSGW officers with some members and guests

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016

SPECIAL FEATURE PILIPINO EXPRESS

PAGE 23

Bella’s human rights complaint against school division resolved WINNIPEG – The Burgos family and the River East Transcona School Division (RETSD) have resolved a complaint that the family had filed with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission in October 2014.

Isabella “Bella” Burgos was eight years old in the fall of 2014 when the school division refused to let her use the girls’ washroom. Bella, who is transgender, had transitioned earlier in the summer and was forced to use a gender-neutral washroom.

Bella’s parents, Elizabeth and Pilipino Express columnist Dale Burgos, filed a discrimination complaint against the River East Transcona School Division (RETSD) but as result of new policies in the division, the family has agreed to drop the complaint, which would have been addressed at a weeklong hearing before the Manitoba Human Rights Commission in July.

“Our goal was to accomplish three things: education, training and trans right’s guidelines in the school division. We achieved that,” said Elizabeth Burgos from Nanaimo, British Columbia, where the family now lives.

RETSD published gender identity guidelines earlier this year and, as a result of this resolution,

it has made further revisions to the guidelines that clarify the rights of transgender students and employees.

“This complaint has been followed closely by many across the country who were anxious to learn how the division would respond to this issue. Our goal was to ensure that there was better education around the rights of transgender individuals.

We are pleased that our ongoing discussions with RETSD through the commission have resulted in a tool that others can adopt so transgender students and staff feel protected and welcomed in their communities,” said Elizabeth Burgos in a joint statement with the school division.

RETSD’s new gender identity guidelines are available on its website.

“This has been a very enlightening journey and we would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of divisional staff and the guidance and input from the Human Rights Commission and Ms. Burgos.

We are extremely proud of what has been accomplished collaboratively,” said Kelly Barkman, superintendent of RETSD. The Burgos family and the school division agreed to keep the details of their settlement confidential.

PAGE 24

PILIPINO EXPRESS

MARCH 16 - 31, 2016