Volume 13 • No. 10 • May 16 - 31, 2017 Publication Mailing Account #41721512
Mariel de Leon
Zumba flash mob takes over The Forks
12
Bb. Pilipinas International 2017
14 Judy Ann Santos
WINNIPEG – Garbed in their colourful and eyecatching tops and leggings, a big crowd of Zumba dance lovers delighted visitors at The
Forks on Saturday, May 13, with their spirited Zumba Flash Mob performance. The Winnipeg event is part of a Canada-wide Zumba Flash Mob to showcase
Zumba love in Canada. More of this story from firsttime flash mobber, ZIN Lucille Nolasco on page 10. Photo by Rey-Ar Reyes
New regulation raises age of dependent child Canada’s Minister of Immigration, Ahmed Hussen, announced on May 3 that the maximum age of a dependent child will be raised from 19 to under 22. The move is intended to aid family reunification for immigrants in Canada. The new age limit will come into effect, on October 24, 2017. The increased age will apply to new applications for all immigration programs under Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), including for refugees. Children who See CHILD p7
Immigrant families with older dependents are hopeful. L-r: Anthony, Fhem, Jordan & Alex Manansala
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Understanding Mocha 1045 Erin Street, Winnipeg, MB Canada R3G 2X1 Phone: 204-956-7845 E-mail: info@pilipino-express.com www.pilipino-express.com
Here’s a story of someone who made something of herself despite (or maybe because of) what other people thought of her: “In 1995, Visitacion Parado resumed her education and enrolled in Saint Joseph’s College, Quezon City. She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in psychology in 2000. In 2001, she was accepted into the Master of Arts in psychology with a concentration in counselling psychology program at Ateneo de Manila University. She completed all academic requirements and is now working on her master’s thesis. She is also teaching psychology at Saint Joseph’s College.” (From Wikipedia) You don’t know who Visitacion Parado is? Maybe you’ll recognize her by her screen name: Tetchie Agbayani. She may be a professor now, but there was a time she made headlines when she posed nude for German Playboy. She was slut-shamed for that and for movie roles that were considered “indecent.” But now she teaches psychology, and as far as I know there have been no complaints from her students’ parents. Apparently they know that being a sexy star and a psychologist are not mutually exclusive. Think about that the next time you lash out at Mocha Uson and her recent appointment as Assistant Secretary at the Presidential Communications Operations Office (PCOO). In the first place, what wrong with having a sexy ASec, one with a storied past? All of us have our little secrets; at least Mocha’s past is open for all of us to see. Which brings me to the second
point: Mocha’s past — including her stint as a sexy performer, her academic background, and the tragedy that befell her family that pushed her to support President Duterte — is literally just a Google search away. “Uson was born on May 17, 1982, in Dagupan, Pangasinan. Her father, Oscar Uson, was a regional trial court judge who was assassinated in September 2002 in Asingan, Pangasinan. Her mother, Estrellita Uson, was a pediatrician in Dagupan. In 2010, her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer but is now cancer-free after undergoing treatment. “She attended the Mother Goose Special School System for her elementary and high school education and earned her bachelor’s degree in medical technology from the University of Santo Tomas. She studied medicine at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery but dropped out during her second year.” (From Wikipedia) In a Facebook post on February 5, 2016, Mocha says it was her father’s death that prompted her to quit medical school. “Before I became a full time entertainer, I went to med school here in Manila. I was a second year medical student when my father was murdered. He was an RTC Judge in Pangasinan, my hometown. He was killed in the line of duty in an ambush shooting. Several years later, still no justice for my father. This is what I ask myself – if my own father who is a Government Official, a JUDGE, has not been given justice, how much for ordinary citizens? Can
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THE PILIPINO EXPRESS INC. Editor-in-Chief
EMMIE Z. JOAQUIN Associate Editor
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REY-AR REYES you just imagine what’s happening in our society? If a JUDGE who DISPENSES JUSTICE could not be given protection and justice by our government, how much more for ordinary folks? The main suspect in the murder of my father was a powerful POLITICIAN. Since my father’s death at least 200 lawyers and judges were killed in the last 10 years in the country.” In other interviews, Mocha has said she has given up on getting justice for her father. But she doesn’t want the same thing to happen to anyone else, and for that reason she campaigned for Duterte and has continued to support him until now. That’s quite a backstory, one that many people are still unaware of until now. Mocha is like the proverbial sad clown who performs to make people happy but is really heartbroken deep inside. I’ve talked to her on many occasions and she’s no bimbo. She has always struck me as a very intelligent person, and this probably has a lot to do with her past. May pinaghuhugutan. As for her alleged penchant for sharing fake news on her extremely popular Facebook page, she has consistently said she is “not a journalist.” That
is her way of telling everyone that they should also do some fact checking, and in fact she frames many posts as questions. I think more than anyone else, she respects her readers’ intellect and trusts that they will make their own judgment on what she posts. Besides, fake news is also present in the established media, but I’ll write more about that in a future article. For now, let me just quote another popular blogger, Thinking Pinoy on his view of Mocha: “Mocha’s popularity comes from her ability to say what the masses think. I see Mocha not as a primary source of news, but as a barometer of public sentiment. Yes, she is not a journalist, but she very accurately represents the frustration, the desperation, and the anger of the masses. And that’s why I read her posts all the time. “Because I want to know how the masses feel.” 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.
Back to the future Age of dependent child raised to 22
The one constant in immigration is change. We are in a world where things change with the stroke of a pen or – in the Trump world – by an early morning tweet. Hold on to your hats because not all change is bad. There are amendments that will be roundly applauded by most readers. The change I write about today is the Minister of Immigration’s announcement of May 3, 2017 that the maximum age of a dependent child will change once again. The “new” limit restores the age maximum to 22 from the current 19. If this sounds like “Back to the Future” or “nothing new under the sun,” you have taken the words from my keyboard.
At present, the existing Immigration and Refugee Act and Regulations defines a dependent child for purposes of immigration. IRPR section 2 reads: “Dependent child, in respect of a parent, means a child who (a) has one of the following relationships with the parent, namely, (i) is the biological child of the parent, if the child has not been adopted by a person other than the spouse or common-law partner of the parent, or (ii) is the adopted child of the parent; and (b) is in one of the following situations of dependency, namely, (i) is less than 19 years of age and is not a spouse or common-law partner, or (ii) is 19 years of age or older and has depended substantially on
the financial support of the parent since before the age of 19 and is unable to be financially selfsupporting due to a physical or mental condition.” The announced change will affect IRPR sections 2 (b)(i) and (ii). As of October 14, 2017, the new age limit for dependent child will once again become “under 22” from the current “less than 19 years of age.” The explanation offered by the Liberal government for the change is that “the higher age limit will have positive social and cultural impacts by keeping families together. It will better address humanitarian and safety concerns” and “help to enhance Canada’s economy by making it a destination of choice for
skilled immigrants who want to keep their families together.” The Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship, sees the increased age as positive for the Canada. “Raising the age of dependents lets families stay together. This will bring economic and social gains to our country as it enhances our attractiveness as a destination of choice for immigrants and refugees.” The wisdom of removing dependent children between the ages of 19 to 22 from the definition of “dependent child” made no sense to many of us in the past. It may, in point of fact, help explain why we as a country voted out the Harper government in 2015. AntiSee TITO MIKE p5
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Columnists/Contributors DALE BURGOS JB CASARES ANNE CAPRICE B. CLAROS YVANNE DANDAN ETHEL CLEMENTE FERNANDEZ BRO. GERRY GAMUROT NORMAN ACERON GARCIA MICHELE MAJUL-IBARRA PERLA JAVATE JUDIANNE JAYME PASTOR JUNIE JOSUE NOEL LAPUZ JON MALEK ALONA MERCADO LUCILLE NOLASCO CST. REY OLAZO PAQUITO REY PACHECO DR. REY PAGTAKHAN CHERYL DIZON REYNANTE MICHAEL SCOTT RON URBANO KATHRYN WEBER Youth Contributors Aksyon Ng Ating Kabataan (ANAK) Philippine Correspondents CRISTY FERMIN JON JOAQUIN AMBETH R. OCAMPO
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Sex while pregnant Dear Ate Anna, My husband and I have a question, but are too embarrassed to ask my doctor. I am four months pregnant with my first baby. Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy? I’m Worried! Dear Worried, Please do not be embarrassed. Many people have the same question as you, and it is important to talk about. In most cases it is safe to have sex during your pregnancy, and it will not harm you or the baby. Unless your doctor or other health care practitioner has advised against it in your specific case, there is no reason to worry. I know it may feel embarrassing, but if you feel you are able, Ate Anna encourages you to ask your doctor if you have any concerns about your pregnancy. Many women find that their interest in sex changes during the different stages of their pregnancy. Some may feel too tired or nauseous to be interested in sex. Others may find their desire for sex to increase while they are pregnant. Every person is different, and even every day can be different in regards to how you feel and how much you want sex while you are pregnant. You may find that changing hormones as well as a changing body may make sex feel uncomfortable in a number of different ways. This is normal and it is helpful not to push yourself to do anything you are not comfortable with. If you do feel that you and your husband want to have sex, you may need to try new positions to allow for the changes you are experiencing in your body. Feel free to try many different ways and find what works for you! The only position the pregnant person should avoid is lying flat on your back after the fourth month, or any time if feels uncomfortable. If you are in this position during sex you may find yourself feeling
light headed or nauseous, as you might compress some major blood vessels. Also, air should not be blown into a vagina during sex. Other positions and activities should not be a problem, but you can both go slowly to make sure everything is feeling OK. Be ready to make changes when you feel uncomfortable. Sometimes we may worry about “hurting” the baby during sex. Do not worry! The baby is protected by the amniotic fluid in your uterus. There is also a mucous plug that blocks the cervix during most of the pregnancy. The only thing that you should watch for at all times is if your water breaks (the amniotic sac) – then you should call your doctor right away. People also may worry about sex causing the baby to birth early. Do not worry about this either. Medical research shows that in an ordinary pregnancy, orgasms and sexual pleasure do not cause premature labour or premature birth. Some other things to watch out for: if any unexplained bleeding starts from the vagina, you should call your doctor right away, and avoid sex until the doctor says it is OK to do so. There may be a time during your pregnancy when you or your husband don’t want to have sex. That’s OK, and this is a good time to express your care for each other in different ways such as cuddling or massage. This is also a good time to think ahead and talk about the changes that will be happening in your sexual relationship once you become parents. Ate Anna sends good wishes to you and your husband as you await your first child. Take care, Ate Anna Ate Anna welcomes your questions and comments. Please write: Ate Anna, Sexuality Education Resource Centre, 200-226 Osborne Street North, Winnipeg MB R3C 1V4or email:info@serc.mb.ca
TITO MIKE... From page 4 immigration policies and measures do not sell well inside Canada. It is with welcome relief that common sense has prevailed after several years of needless suffering and pain for families split apart by restrictive immigration laws. The reversal to age 22 is consistent with global socioeconomic trends for children to stay home longer. This will allow these young adults to pursue their post-secondary education and provide Canada with a pool of talent, keep families together, and our country competitive as a choice destination for immigrants and overall enhance our economy. The change does not require an act of Parliament but rather an amendment to the regulations. Look to October 24, 2017 as a time for potential applicants and users to reconsider their options. This is yet another of the restrictive, ill conceived, anti-immigration measures of the past that is being changed. Why change it, if it isn’t broke? In this case. it is better to
go “Back to the Future.” Thank you Minister Hussen. Michael Scott is a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC, R525678) who has 30 years of experience with Canada Immigration
and the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program. He currently works as a licensed consultant with R.B. Global Immigration Consultants Ltd. 204-691-1166 or 204-227-0292. E-mail: mscott. ici@gmail.com.
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Feng shui tips for making new friends One of the greatest joys in life is friendship. It’s one of the aspirations of feng shui – the gift and wealth of having friends and enjoying an active social life. This area is reflected in the south sector of the house. This sector also refers to the fame and recognition area of the home, as well as your reputation and family name. Having friends to do fun things with, share your troubles with and who you enjoy being with truly is a gift. But what happens when your social life has dwindled and you find that you don’t have as many friends as you once had, or maybe you’d like to find people who you enjoy spending time with? Besides love and money, feng shui can also help you activate your home for creating a lively social life and attracting new friends. There are a lot of questions about where to begin in feng shui to bring friendship luck to your life. Use these tips to help you build your social network or just have a friend to enjoy an afternoon outing with. Picture your friends. One of the strongest ways to attract new friends and widen your social circle is to hang pictures of yourself with friends and at social gatherings in the south corner of your home and office. Find some
pictures of yourself in groups and with friends and hang those up! Social settings. To encourage more friendships and social interaction, place pictures of happy groups of people or pictures of social scenes. Eliminate pictures of solitary objects and people. These can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness. Activate the south. When you want to encourage new friend luck, the south is the sector to activate. Add red colours here or an image of birds, especially the phoenix. If you don’t have a phoenix, a rooster makes a fine substitute. The plumage on the phoenix represents others acknowledging and recognizing your unique qualities and abilities – perfect for attracting new friends. Brighten your life. A brightly lit south corner will help create more yang energy that brings you to the attention of new people and social circles. A sparkling chandelier, a lava lamp, or other light such as twinkle lights in a plant all are great activators for activating new friendships – especially when placed in the south and southwest corners. Activate your personal growth direction. Attracting friends can also be accomplished by activating your personal growth direction according to
your kua number. You can also activate your personal peach blossom number. This direction is most often used for love, but you can use it to attract new friends, too. For more information on how to do that, please be sure to read this article and attached chart for information about your peach blossom direction and how to activate it. Declutter. One of the best ways to open space for new things and changes that you want in your life is simply to declutter. Tackle that corner of the porch that’s filled with cobwebs and junk, the corner behind your desk, the closets and drawers you use most frequently and get rid of old clothes. Get out there. Now that you’ve decluttered, activated and brightened up your social life and friendship sectors, do your part, too. That means being more active and putting yourself out where you will meet new friends. Try going online and joining meet up groups, join a book club at your local library or bookstore, enroll in an evening class or join a group that bikes, hikes, or does charitable activity. This ensures you do your part of the trinity of luck – your man luck. Feng shui is your earth luck and your man luck – the actions you take – will be compounded by your feng shui. FENG SHUI Q&A Question: Can you give me
some quick feng shui tips about swimming pools? We want to add one to our back yard this summer and I could use your help. Answer: Sure! First, avoid having a square pool and having it directly at the rear of the house. Secondly, it’s best if you can’t see the pool from your entrance – this causes severe financial problems and even bankruptcy energy. Third, try to keep the pool smaller rather than larger because the extra water energy can be strong for a house. At least try to balance the pool’s size with your home’s size. When you have a small house and a large pool, the energy can be overwhelming. Another tip is to make sure the water is yang water. In other words, the pool water should be active. A still pool might be nice
to look at but unless you have swimmers in there all the time, the water could become yin. A fountain or aeration device will keep the water active, flowing, and imparting great wealth energy to the home. I love it when there’s a natural fountain type feature or spitters on the pool. This makes the water active, flowing and energizing for your prosperity! 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!
Couples & money Couples fight; it’s a fact of life. You can’t spend almost your entire adult life with another person and expect not to have a disagreement from time to time. Couples tend to fight about two main issues in life: money, and “that other thing.” Many would think that couples fight about money as often as they fight about sex; they would be wrong. Recent studies show that couples fight about money twice as often as they fight about sex. Of people in relationships, 36 per cent are uncomfortable talking to their partner about money, so it isn’t a surprise that money issues are responsible for 22 per cent of all divorces. We have a workshop called Couples & Money. In it I often tell people that there are actually three
individuals in your relationship: you, your partner and the money. You have a relationship with money; your partner also has a relationship with money, and the odds are very good that their relationship with money is very different from your relationship with money. This is often the root cause of a lot of the “money fights” that couples have. Your partner doesn’t think about money differently than you just to annoy you. He or she doesn’t spend when you want to save or save when you want to spend just to annoy you. It’s very important to understand how you think and feel about money and how they think and feel about money. In a recent article on budgeting I talked a bit about money values. I will expand
on that idea a bit here. When you are thinking about spending your money, there is a little voice inside your head that says, “Yes, this is worth spending money on,” or ‘No, don’t spend money on that!” This little voice is your money value speaking. It is expressing how you value money and how you feel about it. It is your relationship with money speaking. This relationship can be about wanting safety and security (a saver) or one where you want comfort and adventure (a spender). Perhaps charitable work is important to you so you want save so that you can give. We all have relationships with money, we all have money values, and we often have more than one. Sometimes they even compete against each other. If you’re in a relationship, it is doubly important to realize not only the money values that you have, but that your partner will also have a relationship with money and his or her own money values that may be very different from yours. Some common money values are: • safety & security • freedom • choice • ability to give back (charity)
• independence • comfort Once you can understand and identify these money values in both yourself and your partner, you can start to work to find a solution to any differences. For example, if you’re in the classic pattern where one of you tends to save more and the other tends to spend more, you need to find a balance and the best way to find this balance is through a budget. In the budget the spender can express their needs for the items they want to purchase, the budget will also allow the saver to plan out how they will save for the purchase and to time when the funds will be available for the purchase. This allows for the needs of both the saver and the spender to be met. Of course, they both have to agree on the purchase itself! Many people don’t like the idea of a budget and of saving. They believe it will restrict and control their ability to spend. The truth is actually the complete opposite. By working on a budget you will be back in control of your money. Without a budget, your money tells you what you can and cannot do. A budget gives you control back and allows you to tell your money what it will do for you.
A budget helps you to save; the part people don’t like is that they want to spend and enjoy their money. What many people often forget is why we save. Ask yourself that question, why do you save? What do you do with the money you save? Why you spend it of course! The sole purpose of saving money is to spend money! Not to spend it recklessly though, but rather to spend it with a plan, and your budget is your plan on how to spend your money wisely. If you can come to understand the money values of you and your partner, and work to express them through your budget, then you will have taken a major step to reducing any fights you may have over money. If you have questions or suggestions for future articles, please contact me at the below number. Tim St Vincent is a retired CFP and is a Certified Educator in Personal Finance with the Credit Counselling Society, a Non-Profit organization. If you wish to contact the Society for further information, assistance or to attend a webinar, please call 1-888-527-8999 or visit www.nomoredebts.org or www. mymoneycoach.ca
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CHILD... From page 1 are 22 years of age or older and who rely on their parents due to a physical or mental health condition will continue to be considered dependent children. “Raising the age of dependents lets more families
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stay together. This will bring economic and social gains to our country as it enhances our attractiveness as a destination of choice for immigrants and refugees,” said Minister Hussen. In 2016, the number of parent and grandparent sponsorship applications accepted each
year was doubled to 10,000, and the government announced that processing times for most sponsored spouses and partners would be reduced to 12 months. Manansala family photo by Donna Natividad Arenas. For more on this, read Michael Scott’s article, “Back to the future” on page 4.
YOU ARE ALL INVITED! DMCI’s Annual Celebration of the Arts Daniel McInytre Collegiate Institute (DMCI) Thursday, May 25, from 5:15 p.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, May 26, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Admission is free. Refreshments and snacks will be served.
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Volunteers’ Appreciation Day
April 23 to 29 was National Volunteer Week for 2017. The Filipino Members Chapter – Engineers Geoscientists Manitoba (FMC) joined in the celebration by organizing its first Volunteers’ Appreciation Day. The FMC recognizes that volunteers are the heart of every event, as without them, no event would be as organized and as successful. We see volunteers hard at work from afar, just another face in the crowd and numbers to statistics. The chance of getting to know them better at an event is slim, if not nil. The chapter’s Volunteers’ Appreciation Day, sponsored by National Bank, held on April 29 at the Fairfield Inn and Suites presented the opportunity to get the FMC’s volunteers together and get to know them better in a light and informal gathering. More than 30 volunteers showed up to enjoy an afternoon of food, fun and fellowship. The organizers prepared thoughtprovoking, but entertaining, icebreakers and team-building activities. Part of the event was dedicated
to the presentation of volunteer appreciation certificates to those who missed the presentation at last year’s Christmas party. To cap the afternoon off, participants gathered around in a circle to reflect and provide feedback
about the afternoon’s event. Photos and text by Norman Padilla, FMC member and volunteer 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). www.fmcegm.ca.
Encouragement and opportunities It has officially been announced in the division so I would like to share on here publicly that I have been approved to reduce my workload to 50 per cent for the next school year. Why would I do such a thing? I’ve been given an opportunity and I’m running with it. Teaching has provided me with the necessary skills, mindset, and connections that have helped me do what I do in the community. I’m simply allowing more time towards building community projects. This past year, I have become deeply involved in finding ways to provide opportunities for youth to get involved and connected with the Filipino community – even if it means creating those opportunities myself. I spearheaded a project called Dalagita, which has now celebrated its pilot year. Through this program, our four contestants received wisdom, mentorship and had a chance to share their ideas with strong female leaders
in Winnipeg through our monthly Master Classes. This is the next generation learning from the current ones. I will take some time to personally introduce our four Dalagitas: Alliah Ramirez Jelynn Dela Cruz Dianne Gutierrez Mimi Aiello These Dalagitas are between Grades 10 and 12, and are ready to make their mark. They knew the celebration night would launch them into our community. Their speeches reflected on the fact that, originally meant to be just a public speaking contest, they’ve learned much more than they bargained for – self worth, confidence, mental health and wellness, cultural identity, and most important, building a sisterhood with like-minded individuals. You can meet these young leaders at future events around the community as we continue to get them involved with different organizations and projects. They will all be
emceeing the official Flag Raising event hosted by the Philippine Heritage Council of Manitoba. Never underestimate the power of giving youth a place, time, and opportunity to share their talents and ideas. A little
encouragement plants the seed of empowerment. It has for me, and now I do the same for others. How are you encouraging the growth of your loved ones? Every little action counts! Make your difference
in their lives! Photos by Geraldine Ong Photography and Events Judianne Jayme is an educator teaching sixth grade and a division-wide mentor in the Winnipeg School Division.
L-r: Dianne Gutierrez, Jelynn Dela Cruz, Alliah Ramirez and Mimi Aiello
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John Cacayuran for Point Douglas by-election June 13 The Manitoba Liberal Party is proud to introduce John Cacayuran as your candidate for the upcoming 2017 Point Douglas by-election June 13, 2017. John is the eldest son of Jimmy and Concepcion Cacayuran, who immigrated to Canada from Novaliches, Quezon City in the Philippines in the 1970s. Like most Filipinos, they started their life in Point Douglas, where John was born and raised. From an early age John understood the important Filipino values of family, community, and hard work. Growing up in Point Douglas taught John that the true strength of a community can be found within the hard working residents who live there every day. From those newly arrived from foreign lands looking to start a new life, to those who have lived in Point Douglas their entire lives, it is this mixture of cultures and people wanting to make a better life for themselves and their loved ones that inspires John and drives his desire to make real change in his community. After graduating from the University of Winnipeg with BA in Criminal justice, John worked for the Liquor and Gaming Authority of Manitoba. Following a successful 12-year career as an investigator with the LGA, John decided to make a change and joined the Hon. MaryAnn Mihychuk, Member of Parliament Kildonan-St.Paul, as her Constituency Manager. John’s combination of work and volunteer experience has given him firsthand knowledge of the day-to-day operation of different levels of government, non-profits, and community organizations. From helping new immigrants to secure employment to organizing events to help young people be more active in politics, John has proven that he has the experience, drive, and ability needed to make change happen. John now looks to take his knowledge and experience and use it to benefit and improve the lives of the people of Point Douglas. Since his nomination on February 2, 2017, John has been working tirelessly in Point Douglas to connect with residents and hear their concerns. He has heard, loud and clear, that the people of Point Douglas are ready for change and are tired of the status quo and cuts happening in the community. “We can make a real difference in Point Douglas,” says John, “but my team and I need volunteers and supporters to help win and turn Point Douglas for the Manitoba Liberal Party. Together, we can bring real change.” Point Douglas deserves a new, strong, LOUD FILIPINO voice in the legislature. John is ready to listen and ready to work. Join us for our Tapsilog Breakfast Fundraiser, Saturday May 27th at the Filipino Seniors Group of Winnipeg Event Hall. The office is at 275 Selkirk Avenue, and we can be reached at 204-977-2035 or at www.ourpointdouglas.org.
John Cacayuran with: MLA Cindy Lamoureux, John’s wife Colleen Reader, Eddie Miller, Tyler Teixeira, Jimmy Cacayuran, Ray Bustamante, Eddie Miller Jr., and Aida Champagne
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Zumba flash mob takes over at The Forks Besides the regular attractions offered at The Forks, such as its eclectic shops, restaurants, and museums, visitors at the historic site were treated to a quite unusual entertainment on Saturday, May 13. Zumba lovers across Winnipeg held an energy-filled 15-minute Zumba flash mob dance performance near the centre court, at exactly 2:00 p.m. Dressed in their multi-coloured and vibrant Zumba wear, participants moved and grooved to the different rhythms under the bright sun. A flash mob is a group of people mobilized by social media to meet in a public place for the purpose of doing an unusual or seemingly random act of short duration. The
Winnipeg event was part of a Canada-wide Zumba Flash Mob organized by Zumba Instructor (ZIN) Carmin Rosillo of Ottawa. Mobs danced to the same song, “Hula Hoop,” by Daddy Yankee. This song was created specially for Zumba classes around the world. ZIN Yvonne Bayer-Cheung was only too happy to organize and lead the Winnipeg team. “I have always wanted to organize a Zumba Flash Mob, so I am happy to take on this opportunity. I have been teaching Zumba full-time now for the last five years, and I can say that the results are amazing and effective, as I have seen many people lose weight and transform their bodies and have a better outlook on life.
People are generally happier and more positive when they exercise and lose weight.” Bayer-Cheung promoted the event on social media, where the response was very positive as evidenced by the number of excited people who came and happily participated. Instructors, students, friends and families enthusiastically grooved to “Firehouse,” “Hula Hoop” and “Shape of You.” They even did an encore of “Hula Hoop,” much to the delight of onlookers who took pictures and videos while enjoying the exuberant performance. According to Bayer-Cheung, a video will be made of all the flash mobs across the country to showcase the Zumba love here in Canada. Way to go, Team Winnipeg!
L-r: ZIN Kristy, ZIN Lucille Nolasco and ZIN Yvonne Bayer-Cheung
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
PILIPINO EXPRESS
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PAGE 12
Nahihilo na ang bayan sa mga pinalulutang na pahayag ni Sharon Cuneta. Kumbaga sa isang nobela ay nagbubuhulbuhol na ang takbo ng istorya, nakapangliligaw na ang kuwento, hindi na tuloy malaman ng publiko kung ano ang paniniwalaan nila. Noong una ay personal ang kaniyang hinaing, nang mga sumunod na araw ay parang buo na sa kaniyang kalooban na huwag na munang magbalikbansa, ngayon naman ay mayroon na siyang mga sinisisi sa mga nagaganap sa kaniyang buhay. Ano ba talaga, ate, tanong ng bayan. Ano ba talaga ang pinagdadaanan ng Megastar, nasaan ba ang problema, nasa ibang tao ba o nasa kaniya na? Nagme-menopause na raw kasi si Sharon, BIR (Babaeng Inurungan Ng Regla) na nga ang tawag sa kaniya ng mga becki, kapag umaatake raw ang hot flashes ng singer-actress ay kung anu-ano na lang ang ipino-post niya. Pero sa seryosohang usapan ay may hugot nga ang mga pahayag ni Mega. May bumabagabag sa kaniya. Siguro nga ay may mga taong hanggang ngayo’y namubulabog pa rin sa kaniya sa usapin ng mana. Pero may punto ang komento ng kaibigan naming propesor, ang kaniyang sabi, “Palagi niyang sinasabi na sawang-sawa na siya sa magulong buhay. Privacy ang palagi niyang wini-wish. Mula bata pa raw kasi siya, eh, napakagulo na ng mundo niya. “Okey, tama naman siya doon. Lahat-lahat na lang ng tungkol sa buhay niya, eh, naibahagi na niya sa publiko. Uhaw siya sa
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
privacy, tulad din ng ibang mga artistang sikat na kapribaduhan ang hinihingi. “But wait, how can she achieve that kung siya mismo ang gumagawa ng dahilan para maging magulo ang buhay niya? Mag-post ka ba naman na ayaw mo nang umuwi, na pagod na pagod ka na. Ano ang inaasahan ni Sharon, ang basta na lang intindihin ng buong bayan ang mga hinaing niya? “Kung titigilan niya ang paglalabas ng mga hinaing niya, eh, walang issue. Kung hindi siya magpapatalo sa emotion niya, walang pag-uusapan ang publiko! “Gusto niya raw ng privacy, ng tahimik na buhay, but Sharon is defeating her purpose. Siya mismo ang nang-iimbita ng ikagugulo ng buhay niya. “Tama, tao lang siya na may karapatang masaktan at maglabas ng saloobin niya. But does she have to flaunt it in public? Kasali ang buong bayan sa mga problema niya? Isang araw, pagsasawaan na ang mga atake niya! “Sabihin na niya nang straight kung ano ba talaga ang gumugulo sa isip niya. Cards on the table na kasi, hindi tulad ng ganyan na ang gulu-gulo na ng tinatakbo ng kuwento sa sinusulat niyang nobela!” inis nang pahayag ni prop. May katwiran ang katwiran. *** Isang mapagkakatiwalaang source ang nagparating sa amin ng impormasyon na nagpaplanong umalis muna si Charice Pempengco para magpalipas ng sama ng loob. Magbabakasyon daw muna ang international singer sa Amerika.
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
• Sharon Cuneta – Sino ba at ano ba talaga ang problema ng Megastar? • Charice Pempengco – Magpapalipas muna ng sama ng loob sa US • Ian Veneracion – Naloloka ang mga matrona sa kaguwapuhan! • Daniel Padilla – Seseryosohin na ang pagkuha ng voice lessons • Mocha Uson – Ipinagtatanggol ngayon ni Mareng Winnie Monsod • Mariel de Leon, Bb. Pilipinas International – Na-bash dahil kay Mocha • Pauleen Luna – Malapit nang isilang ang panlimang anak ni Bossing Vic • AlDub Nation – Hating-hati na ang AlDub ngayon
Mocha Uson
Mariel de Leon, Bb. Pilipinas International 2017
Sharon Cuneta
Daniel Padilla
See CRISTY p15
Ian Veneracion
Alden Richards & Maine Mendoza
Charice
Pauleen Luna & Vic Sotto
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
PILIPINO EXPRESS
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SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
Judy Ann Santos returns to ABS-CBN’s Bet On Your Baby The queen is back. Judy Ann Santos-Agoncillo returns to television as ABS-CBN brings back the cutest game show on Philippine television, Bet On Your Baby. “I’m so excited to be working on TV again. I was gone for more than a year so it feels good to do a show again that is close to you heart. I hope one of your kids can join us in the Baby Dome,” said Juday. The Queen of Drama, who is also the queen of her family with the addition of newborn daughter Luna, also teased audiences of
new program elements to watch out for. One of these is her newest sidekick, the digital mascot named Piggy Bangs. All throughout the episode, Juday and the little prince and princesses who will be playing will be interacting with Piggy. All kid contestants also become members of the Baby Club, which gives them exclusive perks, and access to the program. During the show, celebrity babies with their mommies and daddies compete. The game starts off with them playing one by
one in the game round where the kids face mini challenges inside the baby dome. One parent must place a bet as to how far the his/ her child can go in accomplishing a particular challenge. If the parent gets it correctly, they win P10,000. If not, they still get a consolation of P5,000. The elimination happens in the second round called Watcha Makulit. The first family to get the correct answer advances to the jackpot around. In the final stretch of the show, mommy, daddy, and baby get three chances to find and smash
the piggy bank that contains P1 million. Bet On Your Baby has changed a lot of lives and has been an inspiring show for Filipino families for almost two years since it premiered in 2013. The show
named a total of 11 kid millionaires or called Babynaryos. Because of its grand prizes, exciting games, and the moving stories of the contestants, Bet On Your Baby has been a well-loved show in the Kapamilya network.
Judy Ann Santos
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MAY 16 - 31, 2017
CRISTY... From page 12 Hindi naman sinabi ng aming kausap na doon na ipagpapatuloy ni Charice ang kaniyang singing career, babalik din daw siya agad, kailangan lang muna niyang mapag-isa. Na dapat lang naman. Sayang na sayang ang kaniyang singing career, kailangang ipagpatuloy niya ang kaniyang pinaghirapan, sayang ang oportunidad na hindi naman ibinibigay sa lahat ng mga nangangarap. “Sandali lang siya doon, magpapalipas lang siya ng depression, tapos, pagbalik niya, e, tututukan na niya ang career niya,” sabi ng aming source. Parang hindi naman katanggap-tanggap para sa mga sumusuporta kay Charice Pempengco na nang dahil lang sa paghihiwalay nila ni Alyssa Quijano ay basta na lang niya tatalikuran ang larangang nagbigay sa kaniya ng magandang kapalaran. Nang dahil lang sa naunsiyaming pag-ibig, pababayaan na ni Charice ang kaniyang career, mababaw para sa kaniyang mga tagahanga ang ganoong dahilan. Tama lang na magpahinga muna siya, makipagkuwentuhan muna siya at maglabas ng saloobin sa kaniyang Pareng Ellen DeGeneres, pagkatapos noon ay magpapaaktibo na uli siya sa pagkanta. Sayang na sayang si Charice Pempengco, sa totoo lang, kung magpapatalo siya sa isang problemang may nakalaan namang solusyon. *** “Kapatid, nagpista na naman ang mga matrona!” tili ng isang kaibigan naming becki na ang tinutukoy ay ang mga kaibigan naming kilig na kilig kay Ian Veneracion. Kuwento ng aming kaibigan, “May meeting pa ako noong gabing iyon, may gagayakan akong wedding, nasa kasukdulan ang pakikipag-usap ko sa mga clients ko, pero ang mga sisters natin, nanggugulo! “Tawagan nang tawagan! Pero iisa lang naman ang kuwento nila, ang sobrang pagkakilig nila kay Ian Veneracion sa A Love To Last! Hala, tilian nang tilian ang mga lowkah, nag-propose na raw kasi si Anton kay Andeng! “Sabi ko, e, tantanan muna nila ako at may inaayos pa akong raket! Nalokah ako, kasi, sabi noong isang ka-meeting ko, ‘Nakakainis nga, na-miss ko ang episode tonight, kilig na kilig din kasi ako kay Ian!’ “Naloko na! Pati pala ang kausap ko, e, ganoon din ang pagkagusto kay Ian Veneracion!” humahalakhak na kuwento ng aming bestfriend na si Sonia. At maraming tagapanood ng serye ang natutuwa dahil marunong na raw umalma at lumaban ngayon si Andeng, palaban na raw ang role ni Bea Alonzo, hindi tulad noon na tanggap na lang nang tanggap ito ng mga panghuhusga sa kaniya ng dating misis at mga anak ni Ian sa istorya.
SHOWBIZ SHOWBUZZ PILIPINO EXPRESS
At tama sila, kung kailan nagkaedad si Ian Veneracion ay saka pa mas lumakas ang kaniyang appeal, ngiti at titig pa lang daw ng guwapong aktor ay ulam na. Kahit pagod sa maghapon ang ating mga kababayan ay talagang hinihintay pa rin sila ng seryeng nagpapakilig sa kanila bago matulog. *** Inalat si Daniel Padilla. Hindi pa nga naipagtatanggol ng young actor ang kaniyang sarili sa isyu ng pagyugyog niya sa puno ng cherry blossoms ay ayaw pa ring mawala ang mapapaklang salitang ikinakabit sa kaniya. Siguradong nagpupuyos pa rin ang damdamin ng kaniyang dakilang inang si Karla Estrada, pagdating sa kaniyang mina ng ginto ay nawiwindang agad ang nanay ni Daniel, dahil sa kaliwa’t kanang pang-uupak na inaabot ngayon ng aktor sa social media. Mayroon namang mga nagtatanggol kay DJ, pero hindi iyon sumasapat sa nagkakaisang komento ng mga netizens tungkol sa wala sa tonong pagkanta niya sa Bb. Pilipinas pageant, para lang daw kumakanta sa isang rehearsal si Daniel sa ipinamalas niyang performance noong gabi ng coronation. Isang malakas na tapik ang mga ganoong pagpuna sa mga humahawak sa karera ng young actor. Kailangang tutukan nila ang inirereklamo ng bayan tungkol sa kanilang artista. Sa tagal na ni Daniel sa pagsalang sa entablado, nakapagrecording na nga siya at palagi namang kumakanta sa A.S.A.P. at sa mga tinatanggap niyang shows dito at sa iba-ibang bansa man, pero bakit may ganyan pang pamimintas sa kaniyang pagkanta? Pero may mga pangyayaring hindi kagandahan sa simula pero nagiging positibo ang resulta sa bandang huli. Pagkatapos lait-laitin si Daniel Padilla sa wala sa tono niyang pagkanta sa coronation night ng Bb. Pilipinas ay may magandang kuwentong ipinanganak tungkol sa sikat na young actor. Ang mga negatibong pagpuna sa kaniyang boses ay nagresulta sa pagkagising ng mga taong namamahala sa kaniyang career. Ayon sa isang source na nakausap namin ay seseryosohin na ni DJ ang pagbo-voice lessons. “Kailangan niya naman talagang gawin iyon, hindi siya dapat tamarin sa pag-eensayo. Hindi kasi siya nagbo-voice lessons, may nagga-guide lang sa recording niya, pero wala siyang regular voice lessons. “Hindi maganda ang nangyari, nasaktan siya sa mga comments sa social media, pero nagsilbing lesson sa kaniya iyon. Hindi siya dapat sumasalang sa malalaking venue nang hindi siya nakahanda. “Kailangang pinaghahandaan ang ganoon. Kahit nga ang magagaling nang singers, e, bumibisita pa rin sa voice coach nila dahil gusto nilang ma-perfect ang pagkanta nila. Si Daniel pa ba namana ng hindi dapat gumawa ng ganoon?” kuwento ng aming source.
At tanggap ni Daniel Padilla ang kaniyang kakulangan, hindi naman nagmamaangas ang young actor, alam niya na para rin naman sa kaniya ang mga komentong naglabasan sa wala sa tono niyang performance. Sabi nga, paminsan-minsan ay kailangan din nating magkamali para mayroon tayong matutuhan, ano ba ang pinapansin? Di ba’t ang mga kulang at sobra lang naman? Makagaganda para kay Daniel ang pagbo-voice lessons, singer-actor ang pagpapakete sa kaniya, sa susunod ay siguradong magiging handa na siya sa mga malakihang pagtitipon. Ang pagiging humble ni Daniel Padilla, ang kabutihan ng kaniyang puso sa mga taong bahagi ng buhay nilang mag-iina, walang kaduda-duda na iyon ang dahilan kung bakit hanggang ngayon ay hindi bumibitiw ng paghanga sa kaniya ang publiko. *** Kahit hindi niya naman hiningi ang bagong posisyong pinanumpaan niya ay binubulabog ngayon sa social media si Mocha Uson. Ang mapanuring si Mocha, inuuri ngayon ng kaniyang mga bashers sa social media,
inuupakan talaga siya. Malaking isyu para sa mga haters ng dating dancer ang kaniyang bagong posisyon bilang Assistant Secretary ng PCOO (Presidential Communications Operations Office). Hinahanapan siya ng kuwalipikasyon. Pinagpapaliwanag siya kung bakit sobrang lakas niya kay Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte. Pero bago pa nakapagsalita si Mocha Uson ay ang pangulo na ang nagtanggol sa kaniya. Masipag, matalino at mulat sa mga nagaganap sa ating bayan si Mocha, ayon kay Ka Digong, kaya siya ang nakakopo sa posisyon. At nakatagpo pa ng tagapagtanggol si Mocha sa napakadiretsong mag-opinyon na si Mareng Winnie Monsod, hindi nito sinasang-ayunan ang mga kumukuwestiyon sa kapasidad ni Mocha, ano raw ang kuneksiyon ng pagiging dancer niya sa ipinagkatiwalang trabaho sa kaniya ng ating pangulo? Hindi raw dapat husgahan si Mocha sa kaniyang nakaraan at sa kaniyang imahe, mas maganda raw na maghintay ang mga pumupunang iyon sa idedeliber na talento ni Mocha bilang Assistant
PAGE 15 Secretary ng PCOO, hindinghindi gusto ni Mareng Winnie ang pagtuligsa kay Mocha. Na tama naman. Sa opinyon namin ay mas magiging kapakipakinabang si Mocha sa PCOO kesa sa MTRCB dahil isa siyang lantad na social blogger. At huwag tawaran ang mga sumusubaybay sa kaniyang mga opinyon, apat na milyon lang naman, napakalaki at napakalawak ng naaabot ng kaniyang social blog. Basta para sa bayan at hindi sa mga kalaban ang tinutukan ni Mocha Uson bilang kabahagi ng PCOO ay walang problema. Kailangan niyang maging patas, kailangang balanse ang pagdedeliber niya ng trabahong ipinagkatiwala sa kaniya, para ipahiya niya ang mga nambubulabog sa kaniya ngayon. Para wala nang magsabi sa kaniya ng makasaysayang komentong – “Mukha mo!” *** Hindi siya pinadalhan ng imbitasyon, siya mismo ang nang-imbita sa kaniyang sarili para siya magkaroon ng imahe ng kanegahan, mabuti naman at mukhang may plano nang huwag makisawsaw sa kung anu-anong See CRISTY p17
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
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The road less travelled Two roads diverged in a wood, and I — I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference. – Robert Frost I remember learning of this quote as a young child and not really understanding what it meant. However, fast forward to today, I have a much better understanding of this idea. A few weeks ago as I was on my way to school, a particular situation caught my attention (see image). From the subways, there are a few ways to get up to ground level for the busses: (1) elevators (encouraged only to be used for parents with children/strollers and handicap persons), (2) escalators, (3) and stairs. As you can see in the image, almost everyone chose to take the escalators making it a very crowded option. I found this quite interesting that most people gravitated towards using the escalators versus taking the stairs. Now the best part of the story has not even happened yet. As I mentioned earlier, I was on my way to school that day. I actually recognized the people on the escalator because almost all of
them came off the same subway as I did. However, I decided to take the stairs (simply because I am not a fan of crowded spaces) and let me tell you something, I was one of the few people that actually made it to the bus that day. I took the stairs, walked to my bus and got there just in time before it dashed away and, unfortunately, those who took the escalators had to wait another 12 minutes for the next one. I just remember sitting in the bus thinking to myself, “What if I took the escalators? I would’ve been late!” What a difference taking the stairs made. What a difference one decision made. I like to view life as a journey and that every day we make multiple decisions, whether big or small, which steers us into different directions on the map. I don’t believe that the lesson behind the “road less travelled” is to always take the road less travelled. Rather that is important that we are conscious of the decisions we make and to be careful not to fall under peer pressure. Sometimes on our journey we may resort to “cruise control” or “auto pilot” and we
just follow the crowd. However, we have been given a gift of freewill to make the decisions we believe will enhance our lives every step of the way. This gift is something not to be taken for granted and is something so powerful if used the right way. Sometimes the right path is not the easiest one. I hope that we all remember that we are truly alive today
and that we are all on our own individual journeys. Have the strength to encourage one another and be open to veering away from the crowd if necessary. Of course, never forget to enjoy the journey! Yvanne currently studies Independent Performance and Songwriting at Seneca College in Toronto, ON. Prior to Yvanne’s move, she completed a Business Administration
degree (University of Winnipeg) and International Event and Wedding Planning Professional certificate (QC Career School). Above all, Yvanne is a big dreamer and is delighted to have the opportunity to share her thoughts and adventures. Search the hashtag #diaryofthedreamer on various social media to follow more of Yvanne’s journey.
How we remember and are remembered as Filipino-Canadians Every year, I look forward to meeting so many young Filipino-Canadians who are so eager to learn more about their Filipino heritage through participating in ANAK’s annual Youth Forum and Gala. At last year’s Youth Forum (themed #Pinagmulan; origins), many Filipino-Canadian youth, aged 15-20, engaged with our guest speakers, Filipino-Canadian elders Erlinda Ramos and Gloria Agravante. Through meaningful dialogue and discussion, Filipino-Canadian youth across Winnipeg enhanced their understanding of cultural self-identity and reflected on the importance of cross-cultural acceptance and growth. The
wisdom and experience of our Filipino-Canadian elders speaks volumes when shared with the future generations of FilipinoCanadians. ANAK Inc. continues this tradition of exploring our Filipino-Canadian heritage in the 2017 Youth Forum and Gala with this year’s theme #Pagpapanatili (to preserve; to protect). In the advent of celebrating Canada150+, furthering our dialogue to figure out where we as Filipinos, and as Filipino-Canadians, fit in the mosaic that everyone calls Canada is ever more important. I further realized this when I attended one of ANAK’s Kapatid In-School Mentorship sessions
as a mentor at Sisler High School in February 2017. The mentorship session was about brainstorming and discussing with the mentors and mentees what cultural identity is. The discussion started with an activity that involved completing as many statements beginning with “I am Filipino because…” and “I am Canadian because…” Once finished, I found myself being proud that I ended up with having a longer list for “I am Filipino because…” However, when it came near the end, I was perplexed. The session concluded with a horizontal line being drawn on the chalk board. On one end was the word
“Filipino” and on the other end was the word “Canadian.” We then were asked to put a dot on the line with our name beside it. This dot on the line represented which identity we most closely relate to. I was surprised that I found myself putting a dot a bit closer to the Canadian side. Having lived ¾ of my life in Canada, I found myself identifying more as a Canadian rather than a Filipino. This realization gave me a clearer perspective on where I am now, and the relationship with my dynamic culture and identity here in Canada. The upcoming Youth Forum at the Manitoba Museum will further enhance our perspective and add to the story of the people who are helping to shape our province of Manitoba. ANAK is proud to partner with the Manitoba Museum in its Bringing Our Stories Forward campaign. FilipinoCanadian youth, age 15 to 20, from across Winnipeg will have an opportunity to be part of the museum’s important evolution. Through youth-lead dialogue and discussion on the importance of our cultural identity and history as Filipino-Canadians
in Manitoba, participants will take on this year’s theme: Pagpapanatili (to preserve; to protect). A special oral history workshop lead by Kathryn Boschmann, Assistant Curator (Immigration) at the Manitoba Museum, will provide students with the skills needed for the daylong workshops. The one-day forum concludes with a Gala Dinner at Pampanga Restaurant (349 Henry Avenue), an evening celebration with community supporters, parents, and guests featuring participant presentations and performances. Lunch and dinner will be provided to participants. Through the support of our valued sponsors, registration is completely free of charge! Space is limited! Complete the registration form (download from anak.ca) by May 19. To inquire, contact 204-293-4100 or info@anak.ca. Andrew has been member of ANAK since 2007. He recently graduated from the Industrial Arts/Technology Teacher Education program at Red River College (joint U of W). He is looking forward to his future career as a teacher.
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
CRISTY... From page 15 isyu ngayon si Mariel de Leon. Humingi na siya ng paumanhin sa kaniyang mga nasaktan, nag-iwan na siya ng positibong pahayag para kay Mocha Uson bilang ASEC ng PCOO, wala raw siyang intensiyong manakit ng sinuman dahil ang nangibabaw lang para sa kaniya ay ang maganda niyang pangarap para sa ating bayan. Nagkamali ng kinalaban ang nanalong Bb. PilipinasInternational. Ang akala siguro niya ay si Mocha Uson lang ang pipiyok sa kaniyang mga pinakawalang paghusga sa dating dancer. Walang kaalam-alam si Mariel na buong tropa pala ng mga tagasuporta ni Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte ang pupupog sa kaniya, tilad-tilad ang pagkatao niya nang magsimula na siyang bulabugin ng mga kakampi ni Mocha. Naninirahan tayo sa malayang bansa, may kakambal na kalayaan din iyon sa pagsasabi-paglalantad natin ng saloobin, pero hindi sa lahat ng pagkakataon ay maiintindihan tayo. Magpakawala ba naman si Mariel de Leon ng mga salitang disrespectful at not educated, ano ang bumalik sa mukha niya, di higit pa sa kaniyang inaasahan? Bukod sa pamimintas sa kaniyang pisikal na itsura ay nadamay pa ang kaniyang mga mahal sa buhay. Hampas sa kalabaw, sa kabayo ang latay ang naganap, dahil pati ang kaniyang amang si Christopher de Leon ay hinusgahan na rin. Pati ang mga proyektong may hubaran ng kaniyang ama ay nakaladkad na, sensitibo kasi ang kaniyang pagpuna, mahirap kuwestiyunin ang kapasidad ng isang tao lalo na ang kaniyang edukasyon. Napakaraming paksa na may social relevance ang dapat sana’y pinuna na lang ng beauty queen, pinalampas na sana niya ang bagong posisyon ni Mocha Uson na hindi naman nito hiningi at ipinagmakaawa, sana’y hindi siya nakakatanggap ngayon ng mga salitang hindi niya talaga makakain. Masakit ang salitang not educated. Ang literal na pakahulugan doon ay walang pinag-aralan. Sana naman ay naglaan muna nang sapat na panahon si Mariel de Leon sa pagsasaliksik tungkol sa educational attainment ni Mocha Uson. Tatalampak sa kaniyang mukha na ang taong minemenos niya ay malapit na sanang naging doktor kundi inagaw ng mundo ng musika ang kaniyang panahon. *** Totoo namang ang gandaganda ngayon ni Pauleen Luna. Kung paniniwalaan ang kasabihan, kapag ganoon kaganda ang nagdadalantao ay babae ang kaniyang magiging anak, hindi nagbago ang itsura ni Poleng. Kung excited na siya sa
PILIPINO EXPRESS pagdating ng una nilang baby ni Bossing Vic Sotto ay ganoon din siyempre ang kaniyang pamilya. Magiging lolo at lola na sina Eugene at Mommy Chat sa kanilang unang apo. At maganda ang kanilang kumbinasyon ni Vic, kapag pinaghalo ang kanilang itsura ay siguradong artistahin din ang magiging itsura ng kanilang anak, parang nakikinita na namin ngayon pa lang kung gaano magiging kabuting mommy si Pauleen na talagang mahiligin sa mga bata. Wala nang problema sa kanilang relasyon, wala nang humaharang. Sina Vic at Poleng mismo ang nagbigay ng dahilan para tantanan sila ng mga paghusga noong bagu-bago pa lang ang kanilang relasyon. Pinatunayan ni Vic na sinsero ang pagmamahal nito kay Poleng, magkalayo man ang kanilang edad ay hindi naman iyon kuwestiyon, ang mahalaga ay nagmamahalan sila at pangarap nilang bumuo ng mundong kanilang-kanila lang. Panlimang anak na ito ng aktor-TV host. Limang supling na may iba-ibang ina, pero pinanindigan naman ni Vic ang kaniyang pagkaama sa pagiging responsable sa mga ito. Sa mga huling retrato ni Pauleen sa kaniyang IG account ay biglang lumobo ang kaniyang tiyan. Ganoon daw talaga kapag malaya nang ipinaaalam sa publiko ang pagdadalantao, biglang lumalaki ang tiyan ng malapit nang maging nanay, parang gusto nang makalabas ng sanggol para magpakilala sa mundo. Harinawang maging maayos ang kabuuang panahon ng pagdadalantao ni Pauleen Luna. Ito ang kaniyang una, siguradong mapapangalawahan pa, marami nang nasasabik sa pagdating ng kanilang munting anghel ni Vic. *** Ang dating solidong puwersa ng AlDub Nation ay hating-hati na ngayon. Ihiniwalay na ang puti sa mga de-kolor. Lumulutang na ang solidong maka-Alden Richards lang at ang totoong maka-Maine Mendoza lang. Sila-sila mismo ang nagbabangayan sa social media. Konting kibot lang ay mayroon nang umuupak sa Pambansang Bae, todo naman sa pagdepensa ang kaniyang mga tunay na tagasuporta, reaksiyon nila ay bakit ba si Alden ang binabantayan ng mga ito at hindi si Maine na kanilang idolo? Buhay na buhay ang karera ni Alden, kahit saan siya magpuntang bansa ay positibong imahe ang kaniyang iniiwanan sa ating mga kababayan. Mabait si Alden at walang kaangas-angas kahit sikat na sikat na. Wala sa bokabularyo ni Alden ang kayabangan. Iyon ang isa sa mga katangiang mas magdadala pa sa kaniya sa katanyagan, iyon ang tutupad sa kaniyang mga pangarap, hindi maliligaw ang karera ng Pambansang Bae. – CSF
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OUR COMMUNITY
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
Caùao 2017 – BIBAK Association of Manitoba
Philippine Basketball Association finals by Nic Curry MLA for Kildonan Throughout my time in office as the MLA for Kildonan, I have become acquainted with many great community organizations. Of these many organizations, the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) stood out as a highlight of Kildonan. Founded in October 2001, the PBA was focused on assisting youth in the community. Since then, it has developed into a means for building confidence, developing teamwork, unity and sportsmanship among its participants. Now, men and women of all ages compete, promote active living, and form lasting friendships through sport. During an era when much of social interaction takes place over social media, the PBA takes initiative; encouraging people to develop meaningful experiences and relationships. The activities hosted by the PBA promote
a healthy lifestyle physically, mentally and through cultural awareness. On March 30th, I had the pleasure of attending the Philippine Basketball Association Finals at Garden City Collegiate. Prior to this event, much of my relationship with basketball has been through sharing a last name with a certain NBA superstar, Steph Curry. I was very impressed by the skill and competitive spirit of the teams. My appreciation for the sport of basketball has been enriched through this experience. Not only as an activity which promotes healthy lifestyles, but also as a means to bring people together and develop healthy communities. Organizations like PBA are a cornerstone of our community and enrich the lives of all those involved. I had the distinct honour to present the award for First Place in the PBA Masters Finals. I offer my sincere congratulations
not only to the champions, but to all those who competed in the finals. I thank both the PBS Commissioner, Manny Aranez, and PBA Treasurer, Randy Viray, for hosting me and presenting a great day of championship basketball. In support of this great organization, I encourage you to
consider attending the Philippine Basketball Association Fundraiser Golf Tournament to be held at the Kildonan Park Golf Course on August 5th. For more information about this event and much more, please visit: http://pbawpg. blogspot.ca/. Organizations such as the Philippine Basketball Association
are an essential part of a healthy community and a welcome partner in helping to create a better Kildonan. I encourage all community-minded people to reach out to my office located at 210-1375 McPhillips St. You may also reach me by phone at: 204339-7852 or by email at: nic@ niccurry.com
Nic Curry, MLA for Kildonan (centre right), Randy Viray (3rd from right), Manny Aranez (right) and the PBA Masters Finals Champions
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
EH KASI, PINOY! PILIPINO EXPRESS
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Hindi ka mapapahiya sa Diyos Makapangyarihan ang Diyos. Marami siyang nagagawang himala. Siya ang lumikha ng langit at lupa pero alam n’yo bang may mga bagay na hindi kayang gawin ang Diyos? Hindi kaya ng Diyos na magsinungaling. Pawang katotohanan ang kaniyang sinasabi. Minsan nasasaktan at nagtatampo ang iba sa kaniyang mga salita pero hindi nila nauunawaan na ang mga ito ay para sa kanilang ikabubuti. Minsan kapag may lumalapit sa atin para humingi ng tulong, tinitingnan natin ang taong iyon at iniisip natin kung karapatdapat ba natin itong bigyan ng tulong. Pinapaboran din natin ang mga taong malapit sa atin o may koneksyon sa ating mga kakilala. Mas matimbang din para sa ilan sa atin ang mga taong mapapakinabangan natin balang araw. Kaya nga ba’t kapag malapit na ang eleksyon, talaga namang pinababango ng mga kandidato ang kanilang mga pangalan. Namimigay ng mga regalo sa mga mahihirap, dumadalaw sa mga ospital, nagbibigay ng mga donasyon sa sarisaring organisasyon at siyempre kasama ang pagpapalitrato para matandaan ng tao ang kanilang mga mukha. Iba ang Diyos. Hindi siya naninimbang kung mayaman o mahirap ang tao. Hindi rin niya tintingnan ang kulay o lahi o pinagaralan ng mga taong tinutulungan niya. Hindi rin siya naghihintay na mabayaran ang kaniyang kabutihan ng mga taong ito. May ilang mga kuwento mula sa biblia bilang patunay na hindi kaya ng
Diyos na tanggihan ang sinumang lumalapit sa kaniya. Sa Lucas 17, mababasang nang papasok sa isang nayon si Hesus, siya’y sinalubong ng sampung ketongin. Tumigil sila sa malayulayo at humiyaw ng “Hesus, Panginoon, mahabag po kayo sa amin.” Noong unang panahon, ang mga ketongin ay hindi katanggaptanggap sa lipunan. Pinagbabawal silang makisama sa mga taong walang ketong. Pero sa halip na isnabin o pagalitan ni Hesus ang mga ketongin na ito dahil sa paglapit sa kaniya, buong habag na pinagaling sila ni Hesus. Hindi nakayanan ni Hesus na tanggihan ang kanilang pakiusap. Naiinis tayo minsan kapag may mga taong sumisingit sa pila. Sa biblia sa Marco 5, mababasa natin na pinaligiran si Hesus na maraming tao. May lumapit sa kaniya na isang pinuno ng simbahan ng mga Hudyo para humingi ng tulong. Malubha ang sakit ng anak nito at nais niyang puntahan ni Hesus ang anak niya para pagalingin. Kaya’t sumama si Hesus sa pinunong ito. Pero may isang babae roon ng labingdalawang taon nang dinurugo at sobra na ang paghihirap. Sarisaring manggagamot na ang nilapitan nito pero wala pa rin. Naubos na sa kapapagamot ang kaniyang mga ari-arian pero hindi pa rin siya gumaling-galing. Narinig niya mula sa mga tao na nagpapagaling si Hesus kaya’t nakipagsiksikan siya hanggang sa makalapit siya sa likuran ni Hesus at hinipo niya ang damit nito. Bigla ngang
Tau Gamma Phi volunteered at the WPS Half Marathon, May 7
tumigil ang kaniyang pagdurugo! Naramdaman naman ni Hesus na may kapangyarihang lumabas sa kaniya. Nang madiskubre niyang ito’y dahil sa babaeng may sakit, nanginginig sa takot na nagpatirapa ang babae at sinabi nito kay Hesus ang buong katotohanan. Hindi nagalit si Hesus. Sa halip, buong pag-ibig na sinabi niya sa babae, “Anak, pinagaling ka ng iyong pananampalataya sa akin. Umuwi ka na’t ipanatag mo ang iyong kalooban. Magaling na magaling ka na.” Kahit sa huling sandali sa buhay ni Hesus sa lupa, pinatunayan niyang hindi niya kayang tanggihan ang mga lumalapit sa kaniya. May kasamang dalawang kriminal si Hesus na nakapako sa krus sa kaliwa at kanan niya. Tinutuya ng isang kriminal si
Hesus. Pinagtanggol naman ng isa ang Panginoon at sinabing walang kasamaang ginawa si Hesus. Pagkatapos ay nagmakaawa ito na alalahanin siya ng Panginoon kapag siya’y naghahari na sa langit. Alam ni Hesus na tanda ito ng pananampalataya sa Kaniya ng kriminal. Kayat nangako si Hesus na sa sandali ring yaon ay isasama niya ang taong ito sa langit. Kaibigan, minsan nahihiya tayong lumapit sa Diyos. Naisip natin na baka hindi niya tayo pakinggan dahil sa dami ng atraso natin sa kaniya. Hindi natin sigurado kung ano ba ang dapat natin sabihin, kung paano ba magdasal. Kaibigan, ang nais ng Diyos ay ang taos-pusong pagtawag natin sa kaniya. Kung lalapit sa tayo sa kaniya nang may pagpapakumbaba, andiyan siya at
handang tumulong sa atin. Pastor Junie Josue is Senior Pastor of International Worship Centre (IWC) at 1077 St. James St. (Worship Services: Sundays - 9 a.m. Tagalog, 10:45 a.m. and 6:15p.m. English services). Other IWC English worship services every Sunday are also held at the following sites: Cineplex Entertainment, Kildonan Place at 1555 Regent Avenue at 10 a.m., Cinema City Northgate at 1399 McPhillips St. at 10:15 a.m., Calvary Chapel at 221 Hamilton St. Neepawa, MB at 1:30 p.m. & West End Community Centre at 247-23rd St., Brandon, MB at 10:30.a.m. Pastor Junie is also host of radio program Higher Life on CKJS 810 AM, Monday to Friday, 8:50 a.m. For more information, call 774-4478.
EH KASI, PINOY!
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
KROSWORD
NO. 276
HOROSCOPE MAYO 16 – 31, 2017
Ni Bro. Gerry Gamurot
PAHALANG 1. Kilalanin 8. Tabako 11. Itagpi 14. Pinabayaan 16. Sapi 17. Kabayo 18. Nota Musikal 19. Bahagi ng maghapon 20. Tipo ng dugo 21. Lunes, halimbawa 23. Dati na 25. Tinatalupan 28. Katulong 29. Uri ng kahoy 30. Kakaiba PABABA 2. Natamo 3. Absent Without Leave 4. Kulay 5. Ipukol 6. Nakatunggali 7. Naiinitan
9. Pinaputukan 10. Natumba 12. Tumalim 13. Tanim 15. Linisin 22. Sabi nila 24. Dapat bayaran 26. Luwag 27. Libre
SAGOT SA NO. 275
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
Aries (March 21 – April 19) Sumama ka na lang muna sa agos. Iwasan mo ang maging kontrabida dahil hindi ka mananalo sa argumento. Subukan mong umayon sa kanila at makikita mong gagaan ang iyong pakiramdam. Maaaring sila pa ang maging daan sa tagumpay ng project mo. OK ang ika-21, 22, 29 at 30. Alalay ka sa ika-27 at 28.
Leo (July 23 – Aug. 22) Tandaan mo, pakinggan mo ang iyong katawan. Kung pagod, magpahinga ka. Kung gutom, kumain ka. May dahilan kung bakit ka parang pagod at nahihilo. Mas mabuting magpatingin ka agad sa doctor. Mabuting maagapan, bago lumala iyan. Mapalad ka sa ika-21, 22, 29 at 30. Ingat sa ika-17, 18, 23 at 24.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22 – Dec. 21) Huwag mong aksayahin ang panahon sa mga walang kuwentang bagay. Nauubos ang mahalagang oras mo sa hindi kapakipakinabang na pag-intindi sa tsismis o sabisabi. Hayaan mo silang magtsismis hanggang maubos ang laway nila. Ikaw pa rin ang panalo. OK ang ika-21, 22, 29 at 30. Ingat sa ika-19, 20, 25 at 26.
Taurus (April 20 – May 20) Hindi nakatago ang ligaya sa mga lugar na kailangan mong gumasta ng malaki para mapuntahan. Wala kang pondo para magbakasyon grande. Huwag mong ubusin ang ipon mo. Nadiskubre mo na ba ang sariling bayan mo? Marami ka pang dapat makita. OK ang ika-23, 24, 29 at 30. Ingat sa ika17 at 18.
Virgo (Aug. 23 – Sept. 22) Masaya ang mga natitirang araw ng buwan na ito para sa iyo. Magpahinga ka muna at kung puwede, magbakasyon ka. Magaan ang dating ng pera at wala kang dapat alalahanin. Ang mga bituin ay naka-alalay sa magandang kaplaran mo. Buwenas ang negosyo. OK ang ika-23 at 24. Ingat sa ika-19, 20, 25 at 26.
Capricorn (Dec. 22 – Jan. 19) Kung mabilis kang magdamdam kahit walang malaking dahilan, baka kailangan mong maghinay-hinay muna sa mga ginagawa mo. Minsan, dahil lang sa sobrang pagod kung kaya ka nagiging maramdamin. Alam ng pamilya mo ang sakripisyo mo. Good days ang ika-23 at 24. May tensyon sa ika-21, 22, 27 at 28.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20) Kaunting tiis na lang at makakamit mo na ang iyong pinakamimithi. Maaaring ito ay sa larangan ng negosyo, trabaho o pag-ibig. May kaguluhan ang paligid mo – pero wala kang kinalaman dito. Pabayaan mo sila, huwag kang makisahog. Mag-focus ka sa tama. OK ang ika-17, 18, 25 at 26. Ingat sa ika-19 at 20.
Libra (Sept. 23 – Oct. 22) Walang masama kung pipiliin mong manatili lang sa bahay ng ilang araw at pabayaan mo lang na dumaloy ang agos ng buhay sa labas. Kung gusto mo, magpunta ka sa isang retreat na walang mang-aabala sa iyo. Kailangan ng utak at puso mo ang pahinga. OK ang ika-17, 18, 25 at 26. Kuwidaw sa ika-21, 22, 27 at 28.
Aquarius (Jan. 20 – Feb. 18) May oras na kailangan mo lang mag-isa at pakinggan ang nangyayari sa isipan at puso mo. Kailangan mong ipahinga ang damdamin dahil apektado nito ang kalusugan mo. Magpamasahe ka, mag-relax. Makikita mo ang panibagong lakas at saya. Lucky ka sa ika-17, 18, 25 at 26. Careful sa ika-23, 24, 29 at 30.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22) Habaan mo ang iyong pasensya at lawakan mo ang pang-unawa. Kung kailangan ng kalahati, dagdagan mo pa. Ang susi ng katahimikan ng damdamin ay hawak mo, hindi ito hawak ng iba. Kung may nagseselos sa tagumpay ng hanapbuhay mo, pasan niya iyon. OK sa ika-19, 20, 27 at 28. Stressful ang ika-21 at 22.
Scorpio (Oct. 23 – Nov. 21) May pangangailangan ka na hindi naibibigay ng tao na inaasahan mong magpapaligaya sa iyo. Kapag kinakausap mo siya, pakiramdam mo’y binabalewala ka niya. Sino ang may kasalanan? Sino ang may pagkukulang? Isipin mong mabuti. OK mo ang ika-19, 20, 27 at 28. Ingat sa ika-17, 18, 23, 24, 29 at 30.
Pisces (Feb. 19 – March 20) Pakinggan mo ang kaibigan mo. Mas nakikita niya ang nangyayari dahil hindi siya sangkot sa mga naganap sa buhay mo. Kadalasan, ang solusyon sa problema ay nasa harapan mo lang pero hindi mo nakikita dahil masyadong malapit sa iyo. Matatapos din ang gulo. OK ang ika-19, 20, 27 at 28. Ingat sa ika-25 at 26.
EH KASI, PINOY!
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
PILIPINO EXPRESS
Una sa lahat, humihingi po ako ng paumanhin sa mga sumusubaybay ng pitak na ito. Personal na pangyayari ang sanhi ng aking pagkukulang habang halos 40 araw akong nasa bayang sinilangan. May kasabihang, “Huli man at magaling, tamang ihabol din.” Taos sa aking puso ang pagbati sa lahat ng mga Nanay na nagdiwang ng kanilang kaarawan noong May 14. *** Si Senador Leila De Lima ay waring natatakot na sa sariling anino? Kasi, nabalita ang pagkanta ni Mrs. Janet Lim-Napoles. Ang former PNoy at mga kaalyadong kongresista at senador, pati public officials tulad ni former Budget secretary Florencio Abad ay tinitiyak na kasama. Gayon din sina Mar Roxas, at mga kongresista at senador pa noon at ngayon na nakinabang sa PDAP scam known as Karneng baboy. Kaparis umano ni Sen. Frank Drilon na top operator ng LP noon ay kabilang umano sa melody ni Napoles. Si former president Noynoy Aquino ay nagsabing hindi daw siya liable sa DAP issues. Paano siya makakawala sa pananagutan? May circular na lahat ng mga government funds na lumalabas eh pirmado ng pangulo. *** Waring mahirap ang pagdadaanan ng planong federalist form of government ng DU30 administration. Kahit ang pagamyenda sa 1987 Constitution ay malabong mangyari. Tulad ng nais mabalik ang sistema na nakapaloob sa 1935 Constitution. Sa kabila ng pag-iral ng multipolitical party system, ang kandidato sa panguluhan ng two dominant political party ay pipiliin sa pamamagitan ng kombensiyon. Magkasama ang boto for president and VP. Hindi kaparis ng nangyayari ngayon.
*** “Suntok sa Buwan” ang mungkahi ni Associate Justice Antonio Carpio na pigilin ni Pres. Duterte ang China sa ginagawang pagtatatag ng man-made island sa West Philippine Sea. Kung ang Hukbong Pandagat ng US ay walang nagawa noong panahon ng pangulong Amboy, si PDU30 ang nais niya ngayong ibala sa kanyon. *** Ang independent foreign policy ng gobyeryong DU30 ngayon kung baga sa tanim na punong prutas ay may supling nang bunga. Ang China at Japan ay nag-aagawan ng mga proyektong paglalaanan ng kanilang planong investments sa Mindanao. Paiiralin ang Build Operated Transfer Project Agreement for railways and highways. Walang funds na manggagaling sa gobyerno. May takdang panahon batay sa kasunduan ang simula ng pagsasalin ng pamamahala sa gobyerno. Gayunman, hindi dapat muling mangyari ang privatization of the transportation business na kaparis ng NLEX and SELEX. Matapos malipat sa gobyerno noong panahon ng Marcos Administration, pinagkaloob ng gobyernong Cory Aquino sa pribadong sector ang pamamahala. Riding consumers ang naging biktima. Nagbabayad na malaking halaga sa pamasahe. Kaparis din ng nangyari sa MERALCO na ang mga residente naman at industriya ang apektado ng mataas na singil sa koryente. *** Kung hindi mahaharang ng maruming politika na umiiral ngayon sa Pilipinas tulad ng nakatakdang 2019-2020 elections, milyon-milyong trabaho ang nakalaan sa mga Filipino. Malamang mapigil na ang exodus sa ibayong-dagat ng OFWs.
HINAGAP
Nanay Sa lahat ng sanggol siya ang nagluwal, Dito sa daigdig ng lugod at panglaw; Ang iwing ugali ay walang kapantay, Huwaran, dakila, sadyang mapagmahal! *** Buhay ng ulilang Nanay ay malungkot, Lalo kung may mga supling na kaloob; Hindi alintana ang hapdi at kirot, Na pamanang sugat ng hapis at lugod! *** Lahat naman tayo ay may pagkukulang, Una ay sa Diyos at ating magulang; Na naaalala kung may sakit lamang, Palibhasa tayo’y mga tao nga lang! *** Mapalad ang mga may Nanay pa ngayon, na nakakaramay sa bawat panahon! Paquito Rey Pacheco
*** Binalita ng Supreme Court Public Information Office na sa ika-21 ng June, nakatakda ang preliminary trial of election protest ni former Senator Bongbong Marcos, Jr. na inutos ng Presidential Electoral Tribunal. Nakahanda na umano ang Comelec na tuparin ang utos ng Supreme Court-PET na ipakita ang tunay na gastusin for election machines na gagamitin sa vote re-count ng 2016 vicepresidential elections. Hiniling ni VP Leni Robredo sa PET na ibasura ang protestang hinain ni former Senator Bongbong Marcos. Nakiusap naman ang former senator na huwag nang patulan ang nais ng Robredo camp na maatraso ang pagdinig sa kaso. Bakit nga naman waring natatakot si Mrs. Robredo na magkaroon agad ng vote re-count? Si Romulo Macalintal na abogado ng vice
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president ay umaasang ang election protest ni Mr. Marcos will be dismissed. Katas Isang wake-up call ang isyu kay Gina Lopez as former DENR secretary. Kailangang balingan na ng pansin ang higit na magiging pakinabang ng bansa sa taglay na katutubong yaman ng Pilipinas. • Apektado nga ang sinasabing benepisyong government funds from export ng tanso, bakal at nickel, at ang mga nagtatrabaho sa minahan. • Subalit sapat ba ang sinasabing positibong konsiderasyon, kapalit naman ng pagkasira sa kapaligiran at kalusugan ng mga taong nasa lugar ng mga minahan? • Hindi ba higit na makakabuti para sa Pilipinas, kung sa halip na raw copper (tanso), nickel at iron, ang dapat ay export of finished products? • Katulad ng mga kotseng
imported from US, Canada, Japan at mga produktong imported from China. Ang raw materials ay from the Philippines. Finished product na pagbalik sa bansa. Kasabihan Kung nasa itaas ang bumabagsak, ang nasa ibaba ay bumabangon kung nadadapa. 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. 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. In Winnipeg, he was the News Director of Good Morning Philippines for 13 years on CKJS Radio 810 AM. E-mail: kakareypacheco@yahoo.ca.
U.S. warns travellers of terror threat in Palawan The US Embassy in Manila issued a travel advisory on May 9, 2017, warning of possible terrorist threats in the province of Palawan. The embassy says it has received credible information that terrorist groups might be planning kidnappings of foreign nationals in the Palawan region, including Puerto Princesa City, and the areas surrounding Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park. The advisory reminds U.S. citizens that extremists have targeted sporting events, theaters, markets, mass transportation systems – including airlines, and other public venues where large crowds gather. Crowded nightclubs, shopping malls, buses and popular restaurants have also been targets. The British Embassy in Manila also advised its citizens to “carefully consider travel plans and exercise heightened vigilance” in Palawan, citing the travel warning from the US Embassy. Security around the Puerto Princesa Underground River National Park was tightened on May 10 following the US Embassy advisory. The military thwarted a kidnapping raid by the Abu Sayyaf in Bohol following another US Embassy warning in early April. The Armed Forces spokesperson, Col. Edgard Arevalo, said the military has not monitored any “specific threat” to Palawan. “Whether there indeed is a threat or not, our position is we take all reports seriously … and are taking all precautions,” said Arevalo.
The Philippine Military Academy cancelled plans for cadets to visit the Underground River and Honda Bay. Security around most of Palawan’s tourist destinations had been intensified since the military clashed with the Abu Sayyaf in Bohol in April. Abu Sayyaf terrorists first targeted Palawan in 2001, abducting three Americans and 17 Filipinos from a high-end resort on Honda Bay. One American was beheaded and another hostage was killed during the military’s rescue operation.
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PEOPLE & EVENTS PILIPINO EXPRESS
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
Breaking Through
Mental health takes the stage Sarasvàti Productions’ play Breaking Through is the culmination of over two years of work as part of a larger initiative, Mental Health is Everyone’s Health, which saw hundreds of people share their experiences. Mandated to use theatre for social change, Sarasvàti Productions created a new model for community-based theatre creation. This particular project was launched in partnership with Artists in Healthcare Manitoba, Red Threads Playback Theatre, and the Selkirk Mental Health Centre. Artists conducted workshop sessions, forums and interviews, hearing from close to 400 individuals. With 25 per cent of Manitobans receiving medical treatment for a mental illness, mental health issues
touch everyone, and there was no shortage of people willing to share their experiences. Artistic Director Hope McIntyre and co-writer Cairn Moore compiled real stories for Breaking Through. The draft script received a stage reading in May 2016 and was also presented to various organizations for feedback. With more than 150 written responses, the script has gone through extensive rewrites in the past year and is now ready for a full professional production. Breaking Through follows five characters, each with their own experience of mental health and the systems that surround it. KoKo is a two-spirited aboriginal youth who has bounced from foster home to group home. Is her depression a mental illness or the
result of a difficult life? Molly is trying to manage as a single mother with bi-polar disorder. Stef’s anxiety makes it hard to cope, particularly when feeling judged by the world around her. Val’s eating disorder is the result of our contemporary desire to live the perfect life, but now that she has a reality TV show can she keep it a secret? And Joe is the seasoned veteran of the system, living with schizophrenia meant being in and out of institutions for 50 years. Veteran Winnipeg theatre artist Kevin Klassen will direct the production. The cast members are all locals well-known in the Winnipeg theatre scene – Elena Anciro, Dora Carroll, Richie Diggs, Marsha Knight, Harry Nelken, Spenser Payne and
Harry Nelken as Joe and Elena Anciro as Karen in Breaking Through. Photo by Janet Shum. Joshua Ranville. Sarasvàti Productions’ world premiere Breaking Through will run from May 23 to May 28 at the Asper Centre for Theatre and Film, 400 Colony Street, at the University of Winnipeg. Tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students/seniors. To purchase tickets and to see show times, please visit www.sarasvati.ca.
About Sarasvàti Productions: Sarasvàti Dramatic Theatre Productions and Repertory Inc. (founded in Winnipeg in 2000) seeks to inspire artists and audiences through the use of theatre and to provide a place where artists can develop, showcase their skills and celebrate their creativity. See more photos p23
The young performers of South Pacific For the first time, the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra (WSO) partnered with Rainbow Stage to create a staged concert version of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1949 Broadway Musical South Pacific for three shows on April 7-9, 2017 at the Centennial Concert Hall. The two distinguished Winnipeg institutions produced a show that was neither a concert nor a musical, but a mix of both. Instead of being hidden in a typical orchestra pit, the full 67-piece orchestra, which was led by WSO resident maestro Julian Pellicano, shared the spotlights on stage with an all-local cast of 24 actors directed by Donna Fletcher & Ray Hogg. South Pacific opens with the duet Dites-Moi, performed by two of Winnipeg’s young Filipino talents, Lorenzo (“Enzo”) Espina and Yasmin Reyes, playing the supporting roles of young siblings Jerome and Ngana de Becque, respectively. It is no secret that Winnipeg has many talented Filipino singers and actors. Rainbow Stage was able to appropriately cast the Asian roles with real Asian actors – and local talent, too. There is a growing awareness of the importance of diversity in theatre, and the casting of this production shows it. Along with Enzo Yasmin, Stephany Sy plays Liat, and Rochelle Kives plays Bloody Mary. Enzo and Yasmin are both Grad 5 students in French immersion, and are current members of the Children’s Theatre Company with Magdaragat Philippines Inc. Their great chemistry was easily achieved, as they were previous dance partners during last year’s Folklorama at the Pearl of the Orient Philippine Pavilion. Enzo loves to sing, and per-
Lorenzo “Enzo” Espina and Yasmin Reyes Enzo and Yasmin with Rochelle Kives and Stephanie Sy
Enzo and Yasmin with Jillian Willems forms at family functions and local celebrations. He trains with Joy Lazo with Highlights Performing Arts, and previously performed with Kayumanggi. He also enjoys playing in WAAY basketball. Enzo is the son of Jeralynn Borromeo and Laurence Espina, and great grandson of Erlinda Ramos of Gelyn’s Wedding Lounge. He dedicated his performance to his late older sister, Laurelynn Jade Espina. Yasmin also loves to sing, and
made her musical theatre debut in Alice in Wonderland at age 7. She has since appeared in several film, commercial, and stage productions. She studies voice and piano at Tauber Music School, and trains with L.A. Dance Academy. Yasmin is the daughter of Jan Michael and Joy Anne Reyes. She dedicated her performance to her late grandfather, Ernesto (Ernie) Fabro. From a report by Jeralynn Borromeo. See more photos p23.
Enzo with Joy Lazo
MAY 16 - 31, 2017
PEOPLE & EVENTS PILIPINO EXPRESS
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Breaking Through – Mental health takes the stage
Harry Nelken as Joe and Elena Anciro as Karen in Breaking Through. Photo by Janet Shum.
Harry Nelken (Joe), Elena Anciro (Stef), Josh Ranville (KoKo), Spenser Payne (Val) and Dorothy Carroll (Molly) are the five main characters in Breaking Through who all struggle with mental health issues. Photo by Janet Shum.
Richie Diggs (Absame) and Elena Anciro (Stef) meet at a bus stop and form a connection of support in Breaking Through. Photo by Janet Shum.
The young performers of South Pacific
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PILIPINO EXPRESS
MAY 16 - 31, 2017